Chapter 60: Love Abounds

Four days had passed since Lucas's confession, and lots had happened in Hope Valley…

John Henry and Antoinette quickly decided to stay in the sleepy little town until Lucas's ordeal was over, no matter how long it took. Even if it meant for Juliette to be meeting them there. Unknown to Lucas, it had been Juliette who had insisted they stay.

But, for the first time in a very long time, Lucas was beginning to understand what a real Family meant.

Even Juliette had called him personally, prior to setting out on her long journey, concerned about him of all things!

That was something he definitely wasn't used to, not even from his own Mother, much less a stranger.

To say he had been stunned was a major understatement.

He had been polite, as she had been very empathetic to his situation.

Truthfully, she had simply been full of kindness and understanding, and even without having met her, he could feel himself mellowing as far as his Father's new Wife was concerned.

Perhaps, after all, she was someone he needed to let in his life.

Gradually, day by day, Antoinette was using her charm and innocence to totally distract her brother from his troubles, who despite himself, found himself more and more, looking forward to spending time with her.

Lucas was shocked to find that "Toni," as he called her. Lucas didn't really like to talk about Juliette and didn't feel he could use the term 'Nettie,' as it was her Mother's pet name. So, that's how Antoinette, aka Nettie, also became Toni!

It didn't take Lucas long to learn his Toni had a keen sense for business, but also a genuine love of art. To be honest, he had to admit she was much more knowledgeable than him where art was concerned. And though her Parisienne schooling had stood her well, Antoinette made it clear through her constant chatter that her love and education for art came mostly from her Mother!

Antoinette secretly loved that her Brother already had his own special name for her, no matter the reason he had felt he had to come up with it. It was a name no one else called her, and that gave her hope. She felt quite sure, even though Lucas insisted not, that they were one day going to be very close.

Of that she was certain, and even more determined to make it so. No matter what it took. No matter how long it took!

As stubborn as Lucas was, he perhaps had met his match on that front in a sixteen-year-old girl, who happened to be his Sister!

And speaking of matches, John Henry, Lucas, and Antoinette were walking to dinner one evening when they ran into, of all people, Elizabeth.

"Elizabeth, if you have a moment, I'd like to introduce my Father, Monsieur John Henry Bouchard, and my, er, Sister, Mademoiselle Antoinette Bouchard. This is Elizabeth Thornton."

"Very nice to meet you both! Welcome to Hope Valley," but her welcome was clipped, and very hurried, as though she had more important things to attend to. "Lucas, I wasn't at all aware you had a Sister!"

"Well, it's a rather long story, but neither was I!"

"I'm afraid I need to speak with you, Lucas, privately for a moment. Now, if at all possible!"

And there it was!

The words were said emphatically, as only Elizabeth could do, and although Lucas's Family was unaware who this Young Lady was, they clearly understood she meant business.

"Father, why don't you and Toni go on to the Café. I'll be there shortly!"

"Of course, Son! Antoinette, shall we?"

"Of course, Papa."

"Mrs. Thornton, a pleasure to meet you!" nodded Monsieur Bouchard, Sr.

But as John Henry turned around, he had a puzzled look on his face.

As he and his Daughter walked on to the Café, Lucas braced himself, for he could tell a real storm was brewing.

One he didn't wish to be a part of.

And as he and Elizabeth no longer saw each other, it was apparently going to play out on the Boardwalk for all to see.

"I'm hearing a lot of gossip about your Father being here and your, er, Sister. Just exactly what is going on?"

"Nothing you need to concern yourself with, Elizabeth."

"Then it's true. You're involved in Nathan's shooting!"

"No, I didn't physically shoot Nathan, if that's what you mean."

"People are saying the shooting is linked to your Sister being here, and later your Father. You had something to do with it, Lucas, but I'm just not sure what! When I do find out, well let's just say you'll have me to answer to!"

"Elizabeth, I thought the three of us were well beyond all this!"

"Not when it comes to Nathan, we aren't!"

She gave him a look that would kill, and flounced around on a dime, walking away with determination.

"Elizabeth, this is the last thing I need…" but she didn't look back, and what concerned him more than anything, she was headed straight toward Judge Avery's Office.

He stood on the Boardwalk a moment, and then breathed a heavy sigh, deciding to just put it all out of his mind.

Elizabeth was the last person he wanted to deal with.

He was at least grateful, that Nathan, Bill, & Millicent had agreed to keep his indiscretions under wraps for as long as they could.

And he was trusting them to do just that.

If he had any luck at all, perhaps Bill was already at the Café…

Up in Nathan's room, he and his Doctor were sparring a bit, with Millicent trying to fairly weigh both opinions.

"Faith, I really need you to release me. I have something important I've been working on for a long time. And I'm afraid, the timing of when it all goes down is beyond my control."

"I must say, your wound has healed remarkably well, although it will still take some time for complete closure. Your pressure is good, and there's been no fever. But you do need to realize that's all due to Millicent's meticulous care. I'm worried that once she leaves, you won't be as careful."

"Which is exactly the same thing I'm worried about!" exclaimed Millicent.

"This is a critical juncture in your healing process, Nathan. But I tell you what! I'll make you a deal. You can start getting out, but I don't want you to be working full ten-hour days like you normally do. Do you understand me? And in turn for this semi-release, you will agree to visit me twice at the office each day, and that's six days a week, so we can continue to work on the range of motion exercises like we've been doing."

"I give you, my word. I'll come by twice every day except Sunday! And I will work really hard on my exercises here at home as well, even on the Lord's Day. The Commissioner isn't concerned about the number of hours with this new job, just that the job gets done. In fact, since he knows I've been shot, he's technically got me on sick leave. But right now, our focus is on one particular case, which doesn't necessarily follow any calendar. And it's understood that I have a lead part. At least, there won't be any paper overload for the time being. Apparently, all that will be covered for me!"

"Then we have a deal! And I suggest you start your freedom by thanking this beautiful Lady and taking her out to Dinner tonight!"

"Now that's a prescription, I'll be happy to take you up on, and will love following, Doctor!"

Then he took Millicent's hand and drew her closer.

"Millicent Alexandria Bradford, will you do me the great honor of accompanying me to Dinner tonight at the Café?"

Of course, he flashed those Baby Blues, along with his signature lopsided grin, leaving any woman in her right mind, which Millicent definitely was, a total goner.

"I would be absolutely thrilled, my Love! I know how desperately you've wanted to get out!"

Faith smiled.

"Someday, I hope I have what you two do. But for tonight, I might just see you at the Cafe myself! After the day I've had, I'm ready for a good relaxing dinner out as well…"

"Mil, you look positively stunning! I am without a doubt the luckiest man in the whole world!"

She came down the stairs dressed in a simply cut Emerald Green Velvet Dress that skimmed her body perfectly, with a high neckline, long lacey sleeves, and a straight skirt that pooled slightly round about her onto the floor.

She wore her long blonde hair up in an elegant French Twist, with the Locket Nathan had gotten for her hanging from her neck, along with her Emerald Engagement Ring, which was showcased perfectly, and her pearl drop earrings.

She was positively elegant.

And Nathan was right, she was breathtaking.

"You look pretty handsome, yourself, Darling! I'm so happy you get to go out! I just don't want you to overdo it! Let's wait and take Allie!"

"And interrupt her Babysitting? No, she'll want to finish out her job."

"You've taught her well, but we have to at least call and tell her where we'll be!"

Nathan smiled as Millicent picked up the phone to call next door.

He couldn't resist coming up behind her and grabbing her around the waist, holding her as close as he could.

She eased back into him, comfortably, right where she belonged, and his firm body caught her without hesitation.

He found himself nuzzling her neck, knowing he was probably going to get in trouble, but firmly willing to take the risk!

"Allie! You're the one I wanted to speak to!"

"Is everything okay, Momma?"

"Yes, everything is wonderful. In fact, we have very good news! Dr. Carter says your Father can start going out again, so we're on our way to Dinner at the Café in case you need us! Would you like us to bring you something, Allie?" as she swatted Nathan away.

But he wasn't to be deterred.

"Maybe a piece of Cherry Pie or a Brownie, if they have it! I've already had some hot stew. Have fun. I'd come too, but the Twins are extra fussy and Auntie Rosie really needs me."

"We understand, although we'd love for you to join us! You know you're welcome any time. But it's awfully nice of you to help Auntie Rosie! Cherry Pie or Brownie, it is! We love you, Allie! See you later, Sweetheart!"

"I love you in Mother mode!" mused Nathan.

"And I suppose I love you in every mode, but we're definitely going to have to work on your phone manners!"

"Why I have the best phone manners!" he insisted, feigning outrage.

"You are incorrigible and a very bad boy! You know, it's the oddest thing, Nathan. I don't even think about being a Mother. It just is. Allie is my Daughter in every way! Even the legality is just a technicality!"

He kissed her nose, which caused her to giggle.

"You know, Allie is a very lucky girl to have you as her Mother! And I mean that. I trust you implicitly, Mil. And it goes without saying, my Sister does too. Are you ready to drive me to the Café, Miss Bradford?"

"Well, that's a change of subject! You're trusting me with your brand-new car?"

"Always! Besides, it's OUR brand-new car!"

"I love that! But, what was that look, Love?"

It was a pained look, and Millicent could tell it was deeper than physical pain, and then she knew even before he spoke the words.

She instinctively reached to touch his cheek.

"The better I get, the closer we come to…"

"Sh! Not tonight. Tonight, we celebrate you getting back to the land of the living! And I happen to be your cheery Chauffeur and your Date! Besides, we're just getting closer to our Wedding, Love!

"I can't think of anything more wonderful, Darling…"

"Oh, Love, I forgot to tell you! Lance is covering us tonight. Kyle is with Allie, and Tom and Matt have the evening off," remembered Millicent as she pulled up in front of the Cafe.

"I'm glad Tom especially is taking some time. He works super hard, Millicent. I've been quite impressed with him."

"He's the best Security Chief I've had. Except you of course!" she teased. "How was my driving?"

"As perfect as you, Love!" he took both of her hands. "I love you with all my being, Millicent Bradford."

"And I love you exactly the same! You wait right there, so I can help you out!"

She jumped out before he could respond, and he knew she meant business, so he waited patiently.

She opened his door, and her radiant smile filled him as she helped him very gingerly and gently out of their car.

"This car really does drive like a dream! Are you ready to face the crowd?"

"With you beside me, I'm ready for anything!"

He bent to kiss her as she looped her arm into his, and he wrapped her hand with his, just as they had always done.

As they stepped up to the Boardwalk, Bill, standing just inside the window, signaled the Diners, and as soon as Nathan opened the door, there was an explosion of clapping!

Everyone stood and continued the clapping, with a few not being able to refrain from a pat on the back, with Millicent carefully positioning herself to best protect his wound.

As Bill led them to a very private corner table, Nathan blushed and turned to speak a few words.

"You, the heart of Hope Valley, have been wonderful, and it's most appreciated. More than you can possibly know. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. It's wonderful to be with you tonight!"

There was another round of applause as Nathan seated Millicent and shyly sat across from her.

"Your menus! But I might suggest the special. Saved two for you just in case!"

"We'll trust you, Bill. Two specials it is!" smiled Nathan.

"Darling, do you see what I see?" asked Millicent, as he quickly glanced around.

"Tom and Cat, Faith and Matt! Mil, did you know this was going to happen?"

"I knew it was going to happen at some point, just not tonight. But I do think it's wonderful!"

"I think you are right, Love! They look mighty happy. All four of them! And oddly enough, so do Lucas, John Henry, and Antoinette!"

"It's good to see them out together as a Family."

"I love you for putting all your feelings aside and helping them, Mil. Lucas included."

"You are doing the exact same thing, Nate. I'm only following your lead! How could we do anything else, but?"

"It's the right thing to do. But I know given the situation it's not an easy thing, especially I think for you."

"I'll admit, it's been hard, but if you can forgive his lapse of judgment, so can I."

"You are something else!"

"Whatever I am, I'm yours!'" she smiled coyly.

"Your first course! A Fried Greens Salad with Bacon Jowel and Tiny Corn Muffins."

"This looks delicious, Bill, although your timing leaves a lot to be desired!"

"Just wait till you see the main course, Chief!" grinned Bill, as he hurriedly walked away. "It'll all be worth it!"

"I'm not sure I've ever had anything quite like this! But it's actually delicious! The man can cook!"

"Yes, but don't tell him. His head is already bigger than his hat!" warned Nathan.

Millicent giggled.

"So noted, Love! Do you realize that with Allie's Countdown Calendar, our Big Day is coming closer and closer?"

"I do! And truthfully, I, for one, cannot wait for our Wedding Day! You do know you'll be stuck with me forever! Foibles and all."

"Even your phone manners?" she teased.

He grinned from ear to ear.

"I'll take your 'foibles and all' any and every single day! And if being stuck with you is part of the deal, I literally can't wait either!"

Millicent hesitated, then started again.

"Nathan, are you really okay with our Wedding being in Montreal? I know it's a bit fancier than you normally like. And a much bigger crowd than you'd probably prefer."

"Put any and all thoughts like that completely out of your mind. I can't imagine being married anywhere else. The crowd doesn't bother me at all. It's you I'll be waiting for, Darling! And only you."

"Spoken like a brilliant and most dedicated Groom!"

"Sorry to interrupt, but your Main Course is now served! Beef Short Ribs over Mashed Potatoes! Told you, you wouldn't be sorry!"

"This looks great, Bill! Didn't realize I was so hungry!"

"Let me go get your sides!"

"There's more?" asked Millicent.

"Aw you just wait!" warned Bill with a wink.

"What in the world could he possibly add to this?" asked a non-plussed Millicent.

"Haven't a clue, Love!"

But when Bill arrived back at their table with a humongous tray full of food, they had their answer.

"Garden Green Beans, Corn and Scallion Fritters with my own special Hot Sauce, and boy, is it hot! Roasted Carrots and Parsnips, and Sauteed Wild Mushrooms, all Hope Valley style!"

"Bill, this looks wonderful, but it's so very much!" exclaimed Millicent.

"Aw, you need some fattenin' up! Just taste a bit of everything. But I'm here to tell you those Fritters are goin' as fast as I can get em in the skillet!"

"We'll start there! And maybe you'd better put us some more back, just in case!" winked Nathan.

As soon as Bill took the hint and left the couple alone, Nathan reached for Millicent's hands across their table to pray.

"Dear Father, we thank You from the bottom of our hearts for being able to be out again. Thank You for your healing process, physically and emotionally. We ask that You continue to guide us and we ask that You use this food to nourish our bodies. In your most Holy Name, we pray! Amen!"

"Amen!"

But when they opened their eyes, there stood Lucas in Bill's stead!

"Lucas!"

"I, uh, am so sorry to interrupt. I just wanted to er, thank you both, again. I know I don't deserve your help, but you're giving it freely. And it means everything to me. And to my Family."

Both Nathan and Millicent noticed the brief murmurs followed by stone silence though out the Café, as they reacted in the only way they knew how.

With consideration, kindness, and grace.

All of which was not lost on the Diners, even without them knowing the full story.

Somehow, they knew something had been and still was very off where their Saloon Owner was concerned.

Yet they saw Lucas's gratitude received with Christian aplomb, and they were humbled.

Knowing there was a story, but also knowing they would never hear it from the lips of these three now in conversation…

As Lucas sat back down with his Father and his Sister, Toni looked up just as Elizabeth Thornton entered the Café, accompanied by a very well-dressed Gentleman.

Lucas nodded as they passed, and although no words were spoken, Antoinette caught the look that passed between them, and she somehow knew.

"You and Miss Thornton were a couple, weren't you?"

"It's Mrs. Thornton, and what makes you ask that?"

"Probably for the same reason, I would ask. There was an unmistakable intimacy in your brief conversation on the boardwalk, Lucas," explained his Father.

Lucas could see they weren't letting him off the hook, and the stares from other Diners didn't help either.

"Okay, yes, we were a couple of sorts. But that's long past, and it simply wasn't meant to be. Full disclosure, she and Nathan were close and I might have intervened more than I should have."

"Son, what is it with the competition between you two men?"

"I suppose he has everything I've always wanted. In a nutshell, he has respect, Father. And the awful truth is he was close to having her, until I…"

The thought was horrible to both his Father and Sister.

And truthfully, it was now even horrible to Lucas.

"I don't approve of your tactics. But you are much better off, Brother, dear! She isn't at all your type."

"And you know that how, Miss Sixteen-Year-Old?"

"I know I'm not a woman yet. But I know. The two of you are definitely not a match. Besides she looks older than you. I don't know your Gentleman Friend with Mademoiselle Bradford, but I can't imagine him with anyone besides her. Look at how much they love each other. So, although I don't approve of what you say you did, you probably did your Friend a favor."

"Your Sister is very astute, Lucas. I do believe she's right on all accounts!"

Lucas responded with an indecipherable face, one his Father was well familiar with. Little did Lucas realize it, but it was a face his Mother often resorted to. When she was totally put out with something!

"And just who do you think I belong with, Little Sister? Since you are so knowledgeable and all!"

"You may laugh and you may taunt. But I actually have an answer to that question," she smiled. "Why are men so slow in matters of the heart, Papa?"

Their Father smiled, waiting to see how this little match of sibling ribbing was going to go!

"And your answer would be?" asked Lucas, too intrigued not to know who his Sister thought was his match.

He wanted to prove her so wrong, and was determined he would.

"That pretty dark-haired woman, sitting with Mr. and Mrs. Yost," smiled Antoinette.

Lucas hadn't even noticed the Yosts were in the Dining Room, but when he glanced around, his eyes fell on their companion.

"Oh, no, afraid you've got that all wrong Little Sis! She's a work colleague, nothing more! Perhaps a friend, but only a work friend! As I said nothing more."

Antoinette pursed her lips and continued to eat, unperturbed and unwavering in her thoughts.

She knew she was right.

"You seem rattled, Lucas," noted his Father, dryly, which Lucas ignored.

"'She' has a name, and even I know it happens to be Mademoiselle Fiona Miller. I'm afraid that she, my Brother, is your only match in this town."

"Okay, I'm going to bite. Just why do you think that?"

John Henry smiled.

"I'm afraid I have to agree with Antoinette, Lucas. I had a shave and haircut just this morning, and Miss Miller is lovely. She has spunk, is intelligent with a mind for business, and quite attractive. Don't tell me you haven't noticed, Son!"

"And she's forward-thinking, just like you!" interjected Antoinette. "Besides, she's your age, not that it really matters, I suppose. And if you must know, the two of you just look like you go together!"

Lucas rolled his eyes.

"Can we change the subject, now? Please…"

Bill happened to be close to the front door, as he glanced up and saw Charles entering with Elizabeth on his arm.

She was dressed to the hilt, and Bill didn't know if that was a good side or a bad one.

'Suppose it depends on who she's dressed for,' mused Bill, feeling pretty sure he knew. 'Oh, Elizabeth! When are you gonna wake up?'

"Bill, we'll sit with Nathan!" suggested Elizabeth as she headed straight toward Nathan's table.

"Oh, no you don't! You're with me, remember?" asked Charles, gently taking her elbow.

"I agree with Charles, this is Nathan's and Millicent's first night out, Elizabeth! Let's give them a bit of privacy!" interjected Bill. "How's this table?"

"That's perfect, Judge!" smiled a grateful Charles.

"I'll go get your menus."

"Charles, it would have been the neighborly thing to share our meal with Nathan. I don't understand…"

"And with Millicent, you mean? I think this is much better for all four of us concerned. Elizabeth, can we just have a pleasant night out for once? Just you and me? Without overtones of past loves."

"Of course, Charles. I'm sorry. I truly am."

"It's hurtful, Elizabeth. Very hurtful. I don't say much, but you need to know. You need to know, things have to change. And they have to change soon."

"Charles, I just need some time. That's all. Please be patient."

"I've given you time. Time's running out, Elizabeth. And so is my patience."

He said it low enough for Bill not to hear, but the Judge still caught the drift.

"Here are the menus, but the Special is pretty spectacular, even if I do say so myself! And we've got just two more left!"

"We'll go with the special, then Judge," smiled Charles. "And perhaps a bottle of your best wine!"

"Coming right up!"

"Charles, have you finished the project for Father?"

"Yes, if you'll recall, I told you so this morning at breakfast, Elizabeth."

"I must have been preoccupied with the Children. I'm truly sorry, Charles. Why don't we talk about our Wedding!"

"Elizabeth, are you sure this is even what you want? Our Wedding, I mean."

"Why would you say that?"

"Why would I not say that? I need my Bride to be as excited about marrying her Groom as her Groom is excited about marrying her. That's not too much to ask, Elizabeth, not by anyone's standard."

"I am excited, Charles. I truly am. It's just that I've gone through a lot and…"

"So have I, Elizabeth," the words came out more firmly than he had meant, but he had had enough. "You seem to forget, Eliza Jade and I have gone through a lot too. Just like you and Little Jack losing a Husband and Father, we lost a Wife and Mother, one we loved dearly."

"I don't mean to minimize that…"

"But you do, every time you shut us out, every time you shut me out, and every time you pine for Jack, and for Nathan. This is our present, Elizabeth, whether we like it or not. Remember, while I'm very aware you don't have Jack, I don't have my beautiful, sweet Eliza either."

Elizabeth looked away.

"Elizabeth, look at me. As painful as this is, you need to hear it. I loved Eliza with all my heart, and there's not a day that goes by I don't miss her terribly. But the love I have for you has always been tucked away there, too. Can you say the same for me?"

"I have always loved you, Charles. I truly have."

"But are you in love with me? Can you put your ghosts aside long enough to allow yourself to fall in love again? With me, this time? Don't answer. Just think about it. Will you promise me that?"

She reached for his hand and tucked her fingers into his, and let out a deep breath.

"I promise…"

"Cat, I hope you won't find this presumptuous, but you look so very beautiful tonight."

"Thank you, Tom! That's actually lovely to hear. I can't remember a night when I've had such a wonderful time! Or an evening I've shared with such a delightful Dinner companion!"

"Do you realize we've laughed all through Dinner? You tell wonderful stories!"

"Oh, I'm afraid you're the master storyteller! I could listen to you forever!" smiled Cat.

"I'm afraid I much prefer to listen to you, Cat! I must ask, though, if you don't mind, how did you get your name? It's so unusual."

Cat's eyes clouded for a bit, but they soon regained their sparkle.

"I'm afraid I have a rather long imposing real name."

"Do you care to share?"

"Katharynna, spelled with a 'k,' 'y,' and two 'n's.'"

"It's lovely, absolutely lovely! From the Latin Katharina, spelled with an 'i' instead of a 'y' and a single 'n' instead of two 'n's!' It means innocent, pure, clear."

Cat laughed again.

It was a hearty laugh, one that caught Tom's heart in a way he had never experienced before. Truth be known, the butterflies in his stomach had somehow jumped to his throat. He lowered his rugged Officer's face to hide what he was sure was a blush.

"My Husband found my name to be rather fancy, so I'm afraid he's the one who shortened it to Cat! I never understood why he used a C instead of a K, but somehow it stuck. I've never told anyone this, not even him, but it made me feel a little less than, and the truth is, I don't even like cats! I'm more of a dog person! Come to think of it, there's nothing about the name that says me."

"May I call you Katharynna?"

"Really?"

"Really! It would be my honor. I have a feeling, that's the real you. And that's the you I'm interested in getting to know."

"The honor is all mine, Tom. And you're right. It is me. I'll admit it's rather odd never hearing one's given name. Especially when you're called a name you don't even like in its place!"

"You will most certainly hear your given name, now, Katharynna! I will personally see to it. Your given name is a most beautiful name and should be spoken aloud."

Cat smiled, feeling a multitude of feelings while realizing for the first time in a very long time, that in some odd way, she simply felt authentically herself again.

She had finally been heard.

And made to feel special.

Had she ever felt special before?

Perhaps not, but for some strange reason, she definitely felt special tonight…

"You are a fascinating woman, Faith!"

"Not really, just myself, I think."

"And that self is quite fascinating. It must be difficult to be making clinical decisions all day long, with no one to bounce ideas off of."

"Actually, at times, it's rather nice. It's just that my former colleague tended to not treat me as an equal. So, I haven't really had the colleague relationship that most professionals dream of. At least not a good one. Although sometimes I do admit, it would be nice to have a professional colleague to bat things back and forth. One that valued my opinion, that is. But medicine is what I wanted. It's somehow what I am. If that makes sense."

"I can see that. But I also see you are so much more than just that! Not that 'that's' not impressive, because being a doctor is just about as impressive as it gets."

"Yet that doesn't seem to bother you."

"It doesn't. My parents were doctors."

"Seriously?"

"Seriously! They wanted me to be one as well. But what I do is more my calling. I'm a protector, you are a healer. Both of us are needed."

"You are so self-assured. I admire that. Perhaps, after all, you are the fascinating one, Matt…"

Nathan was watching Millicent with loving eyes as she struggled to finish her plate.

"You are so stunning! You literally take my breath away."

She looked up and smiled.

"You know, I could say the same for you! There are times I look at you and can't even think straight. You could say, you have a way of jumbling my mind!"

"It's good to know I have that power!" grinned Nathan.

"You've always had that power. Even in the Stables at the Ranch when we were Children!"

He smiled brilliantly via his eyes, as they sparkled just for her.

Their hands gradually joined.

Nathan stretched his injured arm out to touch her face.

"Darling, that's not hurting you?" she asked tenderly.

"You watch over me so well. But, no, my Darling, it doesn't hurt. Touching you could never hurt."

Elizabeth saw the tender moment, as did many others.

The difference was the others smiled, awed at the love they saw between these two young people they, too, loved.

But for Elizabeth, unsurprisingly, there was no smile.

"You know, Darling, I was thinking. I know I said we shouldn't talk about this, but perhaps I was wrong. Believe me, I don't like our being apart any more than you do, but I'm worried about Allie. I understand now, that us being apart is necessary to get to our Wedding Day, to get to our Family, and Allie's a huge part of that. But she's mentioned my leaving several times. And Nathan, we can't let her be devastated by that. You and I, Darling, have to be strong for her. We have to show her we're doing this so we can all be together, and that the days will pass."

"I know you're right, Mil. I'm ashamed to admit I'm struggling still. It's better, but still hard. Especially, after all, that's happened. But I know the alternative isn't acceptable, not to your Family, and not to mine. Not even to us! I will miss you like a huge part of my life is missing, because you are everything important to me. You are the most important part of my life. My reason. My everything."

"It's exactly the same. You are my everything. I want to be with you so desperately, I can barely bear it. Yet the more I work on our Wedding, the more I'm assured it's going to be so. Maybe that's a special perk the Bride receives. The knowledge that it WILL be so. We WILL be so."

"Are you going to be okay in Hope Valley, Mil, after? I worry about that…"

"Sh! Put those worries aside. This already feels like home. I'll admit, if we were never going to be in the big city, I would miss that terribly. But, I think I also love the balance. Does that make sense?"

"Yes, because I'm actually looking forward to the balance of the big city!"

"Then this is all good?"

"This is all very good! So beyond good, Mil. It's perfect."

No, she wasn't a crier and it confounded her, that he could bring tears to her eyes so easily.

But he could.

"It's perfect," she agreed.

"Are you two ready for dessert? It's going fast!"

"What do you have, Bill?" asked Nathan.

"Cherry Pie Al a Mode, I think the French say!"

"Oui! Trois please! Three!" smiled Millicent.

"Three? Are you sure?" asked Bill, skeptically as always.

"Yes, for Allie, too!"

"Perfect. I'll take care of my Little Mountie. You two just concentrate on each other," smiled Bill.

"He's right. I just want to take care of you, Love!"

"You make me feel so cherished. I've never felt that way aside from you!"

"That's a very good thing, Miss Bradford! But, it happens to be you who is making me feel very cherished over this past week. Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

"You are most welcome, my Chief Inspector. It happens to be my new job and pleasure all rolled into one. But how is this next part going to work?"

Nathan looked at her quizzically, knowing down deep what she meant, but dreading to discuss it.

"The Lucas situation. What do we do?"

"Well, he's not ruining our Wedding."

"Then do we proceed as normal?"

"Yes, we do," and Nathan lowered his voice even lower. "This could take quite some time, you know."

"But couldn't it all happen quickly too?"

"Yes, in fact, I believe that will be the case."

"Do you have a timeline?"

"Within the week, and as much as it pains me, it's safer, Mil, if you are not here when it goes down."

"But Nathan, don't forget I have Tom and the boys. I'll be safe even if I'm here, without distracting you."

"You, Millicent Bradford soon-to-be Grant always distract me."

"I intend to be here with you when it goes down."

"I know you do. Then against my better judgment, we'll have to make it work."

"Truthfully," and Millicent lowered her already low voice even lower. "Yes, I need to be here for my client. But, Nathan, I have to be here for you."

"If I can't hold you immediately, I don't think I can survive…"

"Two Cherry Pies with Homemade Vanilla Bean and Cinnamon Ice Cream, my personal favorite!" announced Bill, loudly.

"Thank you, Bill," nodded Nathan, but his full attention never left Millicent's face.

Millicent smiled at her Fiance and placed her left hand on his, while they fed each other their Cherry Pie and Homemade Ice Cream with their right hands, breaking their serious mood, yet still bonding them together, leaving much laughter and teasing in its place.

"We make a great team, Nathan."

He raised her hand to his lips, and gently kissed it, looking at her over her dainty hand.

"The best, Darling! The very best. And come what may, we're a forever team!"

And then he, very sheepishly at first, took both her hands, collecting his courage and thoughts to quote a love poem that described perfectly the way he felt about her.

A poem he had first read as a teenager, alone in his room, that made him only think of her.

He had loved the words so much, that they were written indelibly on his heart without effort, yet he had never shared them before.

He had felt them, though, from that very first moment of seeing her at the Train Station in Montreal.

But tonight, his love for her was spilling and overflowing from his heart.

In a way that couldn't be contained.

There was no place to put it.

Now was the time.

So, in a voice only she could hear, he began…

"How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of being and ideal grace.
I love thee to the level of every day's
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for right.
I love thee purely, as they turn from praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints. I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life; and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death." (*42)

"Nathan…"

She was overcome and his name was the only thing she could speak.

"I promise you this, Millicent Alexandria Bradford, I will spend the rest of my life counting and showing you the infinite ways I love you…"

(*42) "How Do I Love Thee? Let Me Count the Ways," Sonnet 43, Published in Sonnets from the Portuguese, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, 1850, Public Domain