Chapter 77: Hope, Feathers, & Crumbs
As Nathan and Allie knocked on the Coulters' front door, they could hear little Oliver running toward them, as Rosemary tended to a fussy Sadie and Sophie!
Lee opened the door behind Oliver.
"Welcome to my world of chaos!" he grinned.
Nathan chuckled and waited as Oliver squeezed Allie tightly, and then when Oliver moved to hug him, he reached down to lift the little boy high to a round of delighted giggles!
"Sorry, but have to bring you down a bit, Buddy, so I can take off my coat!"
"I get scoff!" and Oliver grabbed the end of the wool plaid scarf around Nathan's neck, and tugged as hard as he could!
After some secret 'faux' assistance from Nathan, Oliver managed to get the scarf off the Chief's neck, to place it around his own!
"Here, Nathan, let me help with your coat," suggested Lee.
"Thanks, Lee! How's my favorite Godson?"
"Dad, Oliver's your only Godson," reminded Allie.
"I know, and my favorite too! Just like you're my one and only Daughter, but favorite Daughter, too!"
Allie just rolled her eyes, while Lee chuckled and grabbed his niece's coat, so she could take off her winter hat, gloves, and scarf.
"Can you use any help with the girls, Auntie Rosie? I'm available!"
"Oh, Allie, perfect timing! Could you hold Sophie for me? She's the least fussy tonight!"
"Happy to hold her, Auntie Rosie. Should I sit down?"
"Yes, Sweetheart, in the rocker if you don't mind! I'm afraid that's the only thing that calms her! So, we do quite a bit of rocking in this house, don't we Sophie?"
Lee helped Allie get situated and handed Sophie to her, then helped his wife to sit with a whimpering Sadie in the other rocker close by.
"Now if that's not the most beautiful sight in the world!" exclaimed Lee as he watched his daughters suddenly stop fussing altogether as soon as they started being rocked. "Is that a moment of silence I hear?"
Nathan laughed.
"Cherish it, my Friend!"
"Can you tell the girls apart now, Uncle Lee?"
"Absolutely!" announced the proud father while the whole time Rosemary was shaking her head no behind him, with a broad smile on her face.
"Nathan! Dinner's in the oven. Should be ready in about twenty minutes. We're having Pot Roast and all the trimmings. I hope you're not starving!"
"Pot Roast sounds wonderful! Allie and I both had hefty lunches today, so no worries at all, Rosemary. Just gives me more time to play with my Godson!"
Lee spread out his hands, motioning Oliver was all Nathan's, as the poor little tyke had already worn his Daddy completely out, still having more energy to spare!
"My, look at these train cars! Which is your favorite?"
"Dis one, Uncle Natan! Dis one!"
"Ah! The pretty blue one. I think that's my favorite too!"
"Oh, Nathan, wait till you see the most darling outfits Millicent sent us for the children. They will be wearing them Sunday to Church! So adorable! I've never seen any so precious, not even in New York! And I don't know how in the world she found time to shop for children's clothes, with all that she has on her plate!"
"You know Millicent! She somehow always makes time for the people she loves! And we both love these little ones! I'm sorry I haven't had more time to help!"
"Don't be silly! You and Millicent together have already done more than most Godparents!"
Being perceptive, Nathan caught that Rosemary was referring to Elizabeth.
He knew things were better between the two ladies because Rosemary had told him so.
But she had also let him know that Elizabeth had been occupied with Charles, and really hadn't seemed to have much time for her or the children.
Which had been another reason he hadn't pushed Allie to speak with Elizabeth.
He had tried to encourage Rosemary that they should look at it as a good thing Elizabeth was finally being considerate of Charles's feelings, and to just give it time for the newness to wear off.
Trying to smooth it over now, again, he changed the subject.
"Have you all gotten our Wedding Invitation yet?"
"Came today, and it's absolutely the most beautiful one I've ever seen! It's much too pretty to stow away, so I'm afraid you're just going to have to stare at it up there on our mantel when you come to visit! Because it's going to stay there on full display for all to see!"
"I'm afraid I can't take any credit for that either. We did choose the style together, but Millicent had to see that they were engraved properly. I feel so badly leaving all the work to her!"
"You'll make it up to her when she gets here after the Wedding, Nathan!" encouraged Lee.
"We all will!" insisted Rosemary. "When Millicent gets back here to stay, I want her to take it easy for a while before she's inundated with community matters! And I intend to see that happens!"
"Good luck with that! She has a big case that comes to Court right after we get back from our Honeymoon!"
"Nathan, are you serious?"
"Afraid so! You all are still coming to the Wedding, right?" asked Nathan. "I mean I know travel will be hard with the children, but we really want you with us if it's at all possible!"
"The way I figure it, these children are going to take to the Train like ducks to the water! Hey, it's constant movement! Has to be better than a couple of rocking chairs! Besides, Oliver here already thinks he's a conductor, don't you, Son? Plus, I'll have plenty of help with all the ladies in town coming. Florence and Mollie have already called first dibs on holding the girls. It doesn't get any better than that!" laughed Rosemary. "Besides, I wouldn't miss this Wedding for the world! Millicent has already arranged for two Nannies to take care of the children in Montreal when we can't be with them, and she's gotten a special nursery put together for them too. It's way above and beyond, but so very much appreciated!"
"She really does think of everything!" assured Nathan. "I'm not quite sure how she does it all! Besides don't discount Essie! No one loves children more! These three will be loved into oblivion with her at the helm!"
"You've got a great bride-to-be, Nathan," bragged Lee. "Beautiful, brilliant, and more, but also, aside from my own Rosie, the kindest, most compassionate woman I've ever met!"
"I'd have to agree with that, Sweetheart!" smiled Rosemary.
Both Nathan and Allie beamed at the compliments.
"That we do, don't we Allie?"
"The best Dad! The very best! I love Momma so much!"
Nathan smiled and the love he had both for Millicent and Allie was written all over his face.
"Nathan, I hate to bring this up, but Elizabeth is wondering if you and Millicent would mind for her and Charles to come to the Wedding? She didn't want to come out and ask you, but I know that both of them really want to be there!"
"Well, of course, they're invited if they want to come. We just assumed they were still having their own ceremony at the same time!"
"No, thankfully, they've changed the date to January the Fourth, realizing it was wrong to choose the exact same date. And it was wrong! Apparently, it was Elizabeth's doing when she wasn't quite herself, and I do think she's truly sorry. I also know how embarrassed she is about the whole thing. She's trying to make amends but in her own way. It's just going to take time, I'm afraid."
"I'll speak with her and Charles. We don't want either of them to be embarrassed at all, and they're more than welcome to come. Millicent and I have discussed it. We simply didn't want them to be offended by offering an invitation, and we most certainly didn't want to be any hindrance to their own Wedding. I'll let Millicent know to send an invitation as soon as possible."
"Dad, Momma already sent their invitation to us in case they changed their mind and wanted to go. Remember I set it on the desk with the invitation for the Senior Bouchards."
"Yes, you did! Thanks for remembering, Sweetheart! I totally forgot. Lucas mentioned that his family would like to accompany him to Montreal, so we didn't want to leave them out. If you'll remind me, Allie, I'll see that both families get their invitation tomorrow!"
"Wait, isn't it getting close for you two to leave for Montreal?" asked Rosemary.
"Yes, it's hard to believe we'll be on the Train headed to Millicent in less than a week! Allie and I both are over the moon!"
"We can tell by the excited look on your faces!" proclaimed Lee. "And Rosie and I won't be far behind you!"
"It's just the rest of this week, Auntie Rosie! We leave on Sunday right after morning Church Service. But don't forget my dance is Saturday night!"
"I could never forget your dance!" smiled Rosemary. "Why, I get the privilege of dressing my favorite niece for her very first dance! Hair and make-up included!"
Allie grinned broadly, as Nathan looked somewhat like he was starting to have a stroke at the mere mention of make-up!
Thankfully, Rosemary glanced up from feeding Sadie her bottle at that exact moment, and quickly explained!
"Just a little gloss, Dad, and pretty ribbons for her hair!"
Nathan breathed a heavy sigh of relief, while Lee got up and patted him on the back.
"Dad, it's going to be all right!" assured Allie.
"Sure, Dad, it's going to be all right!" echoed Lee, with a wide encouraging grin.
"May I remind you, Lee, you have not one but two daughters to look forward to this milestone with!" growled Nathan. "And I assure you the time will be here before you know it!"
Which left Lee rather dumbfounded and speechless at the thought, as Nathan quickly changed the subject.
"I've also got the Mountie Ball in Union City this Friday night. I'll come back here on the Train Saturday morning, so I'll be back in plenty of time to escort Allie to her dance."
"Yes, Elizabeth got a ballgown and mentioned she and Charles would be attending the Ball. To be honest, I found that a bit odd," admitted Rosemary.
"I'll admit I was surprised too, but I think she just missed the actual Ball with Jack and wants to experience it, so she can put that behind her and Charles," explained Nathan. "For Charles's sake, I hope she does just that!"
"You and me both! I know it's killing Millicent to have to be missing the ball and Allie's dance! She's already arranged for Fiona to come and take pictures of Allie for her!" smiled Rosemary.
"Momma did that?"
"She most certainly did! Before she left! Fiona's going to take pictures of us as I get you ready, too! As well as pictures of you and your Dad when he escorts you to the School!"
Rosemary noticed the long tender look Nathan gave Allie, and although she didn't say anything, she recognized exactly what Nathan was realizing all over again.
Millicent loved Allie already as her very own daughter, meaning Allie already had the mother she had longed for all those years.
The four chatted amicably as family and close friends do while Nathan continued to play with Oliver!
"Uncle Lee, I just realized if we call Oliver 'Ollie,' his name will be almost like mine!"
"Maybe that's why I call him Ollie sometimes Allie! If he grows up to be half as great as you are at this age, Auntie Rosie and I will have done a grand job raising him!"
Both Allie and Nathan blushed and offered their thanks for the compliment.
These two were a great team together, and they were about to become an even more glorious team with Millicent, a complete loving family of three.
It was an expectant and joyous time for these two people who somehow, had not ever had it easy, but had always joyfully prevailed in spite of their hardships.
But the pain of missing Millicent had been obvious, no matter how much they tried to hide it to everyone.
All these years, Nathan had somehow managed being both father and mother to a little girl, while holding down an arduous job. But father and daughter had forged something so real and so special between them, it was more than most birth families experience. They cherished each other and totally relied one on the other.
And they took care of each other with great attention to detail and an even greater love!
All of Hope Valley saw their mutual admiration and marveled at their closeness!
But the funny thing, it was almost like Millicent had always been there with them, and in many ways she had.
"Allie, what do you say? Why don't we pass off these precious girls to these handsome Gentlemen and go finish getting dinner ready?"
"Sure, Auntie Rosie! I'd love to help…"
In the kitchen, Rosemary took out the Pot Roast, then arranged it with, Carrots, Potatoes, and Leeks on a huge platter, while Allie cut up the Bread and placed it in a basket lined with a linen cloth.
Rosemary covered the platter, then got the pitcher of ice-cold tea from the refrigerator and began pouring the golden liquid into her best goblets, which she had already filled with ice.
"Allie, are you still feeling okay, afterwards, I mean?" Rosemary glanced back at Allie with a knowing look.
"Yes, Ma'am. Thanks for checking in on me last week so many times. Momma did too over the phone. I didn't feel nearly as bad this time as last time!"
"Good! That's exactly what we were hoping for. I'll be honest, some months are harder than others, but you've been a trouper! And cycles do get easier as we become more used to them! I'll always be here for you Allie whenever you need me!"
"I know, Auntie Rosie, and I love that! Momma does too!"
Rosemary reached to hug Allie.
"Allie, are you ready for all this excitement of the Wedding? I know I am!"
"So very much! But can I ask you something?"
"Of course, Allie, anything!"
But Allie was sheepishly looking down at the floor.
"I don't understand why Mrs. Thornton now wants to come to our Wedding, when she didn't even want us in the first place! I mean it is our Wedding. It's not hers. I just don't get it! And to tell you the truth I don't like it. Why can't she just leave us alone?"
Rosemary walked over to the kitchen table where Allie was sitting and took her hand.
"Allie, adults do some strange and not so nice things at times. They don't mean to, but they do! I'll tell you a secret. I've been Eliz, er Mrs. Thornton's best friend for a very long time, and through all this mess with Mr. Bouchard, Mrs. Thornton wasn't that nice to me at all, either."
"She wasn't?"
"She wasn't. In fact, between you and me, she was downright hateful at times."
"Really?"
"Really! And I was so hurt and so sad, till finally I just had to realize it was out of my control and that Elizabeth, I mean Mrs. Thornton wasn't being herself."
"Dad says we have to forgive her. I know Dad has already. And so has Momma! I don't get it but I think she always understood somehow."
"Yes, your Momma has understood from the very beginning!"
"Momma says Mrs. Thornton loved my Dad, but she let fear win, and because of that, Momma couldn't possibly not love her. She said I'd understand when I grow up."
"Your mother is a very gracious Christian woman, Allie. I wish all of us could be so forgiving and generous. Truthfully, I'm not sure I could have been so gracious. And you're right, your Momma and Dad have truly forgiven Mrs. Thornton! So have I, finally. But have you, Allie?"
Allie shook her head no, just enough so that Rosemary could see.
"I'll be honest. It took me a long time, too! But you know what, I do feel better since I forgave her."
"Did she make up for everything?"
"No, she didn't."
"But you forgave her anyway?"
"I did. You know our friends don't always deserve our forgiveness, but when we can give it, we're the ones who can release all the negativity and move on."
"That's exactly what Momma said. I know I have to forgive her, and I have in my heart. But I just want Momma to be here when I have to do it in person. She would know how to help me."
With tears in her eyes, Rosemary gathered the girl to her.
"Yes, she would and will. I do love your Momma, you know! Very much so, and she's right to want you to forgive Mrs. Thornton! You know, I have it on very good authority, that Mrs. Thornton wants nothing more than to apologize to you, too. She feels really bad about the whole mess, Allie!"
"She does?"
"Yes, she does. I hope that makes it easier when you do finally talk with her!"
"You're the best, Auntie Rosie. But I have an even bigger problem! A really huge problem, and much more important as far as I'm concerned."
"What's that?"
"I've saved all my work money and my babysitting money, but I still don't know what to get Dad and Momma for our Wedding!"
"You know what I think? I think you yourself are more than gift enough, Young Lady! They love you so much, Allie!"
"I know, but that's why I want to do something really special for them. I just can't think of anything! And I've racked my brain! I already drew them a painting."
"And it's beautiful too! Hm, a special Wedding gift! Leave it to me, you and I together will think of something absolutely perfect…"
After a hearty and loving Dinner with the Coulters on Monday night, both Nathan and Allie were wishing their Tuesday and Wednesday would fly, as Nathan had to leave for Union City on Wednesday night.
But sadly, Tuesday seemed to be dragging, at school for Allie, and at work for Nathan.
The Chief was getting to a point he had his files in some semblance of order, and had even started reviewing the top three ongoing cases in more depth, but still felt a bit overwhelmed by it all.
This was new territory, and the help that had been sent hadn't worked out that well.
"Hey, Nathan, how are you doin'?" asked Bill.
"Filing pretty much done, except for the new stacks that are delivered daily by Train! It's endless, Bill. Meaning I'll never catch up till my team is here permanently. And I'm not sure even then!"
"You look immersed! Why do you have three stacks on your desk with open files on each stack?"
"Because I'm going through the three top open cases! And I hate to say it, but they're a mess!"
"That doesn't surprise me. Any leads?"
"Too early, but a lot of missing holes that need to be plugged in first! I know it's my fault that I don't have on-site staff till I get back, but you saw how that worked. The quarters are just too tight, Bill! And truthfully, I'm not sure they were the right people!"
"Agree! You do need more space and people with a greater work ethic. Besides you're gonna have to clear your stuff out of here so I can make way for Millicent's!"
"Why, thanks, Bill! Now, I know who rates!"
"Shoot, give me Millicent any day! She's a Barrister, Nathan. You're just a Chief Inspector!"
"Never worry about false pride when you're around, Bill! Hey, I need to track down the Senior Bouchards, as well as Charles and Elizabeth to give them their Wedding invitations."
"Their what?" asked Bill stone-faced.
"Apparently, they want to come to our Wedding in Montreal!"
"Not surprised about the Senior Bouchards, but for the other two, wonders never cease! Do you even want 'em there?"
"Bill, I can't tell them they're not welcome!"
"Suppose not! Hey, I'm goin' to Union City with you, but I have to leave early on Thursday."
"No can do, Bill. I have to leave Wednesday night. Early meeting Thursday morning with the Commissioner!"
"Okay, get me a ticket too. I'll leave with you. Never hurts to be in the know. You know what they say about the early bird!"
Nathan rolled his eyes, as he got up to leave.
"Where you goin'?"
"Elizabeth's, if you must know. I waited till now to be sure Charles was there, too. He passed by here ten minutes ago, so I should be good!"
Bill just shook his head.
"Nathan Grant, you're a better man than me…"
As Nathan lifted his hand to knock on Elizabeth's door, he stopped and smiled.
From the sounds inside, Elizabeth was still greeting Charles.
And very warmly, too!
Truth be known, Nathan had never felt it was right when Elizabeth had been with Bouchard, they simply hadn't been a match, and it had bothered him to no end. But with Charles it felt right, and he was truly happy for the both of them. He even felt that Jack Sr. was okay with this new union as well!
And Jack Jr. clearly loved Charles!
Nathan knew Elizabeth had a lot of amends to make, but apparently, she was doing her best to make them.
Now if she could only make things right with his daughter.
But that was obviously a bigger priority to Nathan than it was to Elizabeth.
Nathan still shuddered when he thought of what his daughter had been put through, and he was sure he didn't know the entire story!
But thankfully, his daughter was tough and she had survived.
He was however thankful for Mrs. Nelson, and the fact Elizabeth had taken a leave of absence, which gave Allie space, at least temporarily.
Nathan waited at the door, and when it sounded like the couple had parted, he knocked lightly, to which Charles quickly answered.
"Nathan, hello, what can I do for you?"
"Charles, glad you're here. I need to speak with both you and Elizabeth if now's a good time."
"Of course, Nathan, come on in! Let me take your coat."
"Oh, no, thank you! I just have a moment."
"Have a seat, Nathan. At least let me get you a cup of tea!" offered Elizabeth warmly.
"Well, that I won't refuse!"
"It's almost time for you and Allie to travel to Montreal, isn't it, Nathan?" asked Charles, as Elizabeth went to make the tea.
As soon as she put the water on, Elizabeth came straight back into the living room, and sat down by Charles on the settee.
"Yes, thankfully! We still have the Ball on Friday night as you two know, then Allie's First Dance on Saturday night. We'll leave after Church Services on Sunday morning. But I wanted to personally drop off our Wedding Invitation. It's a bit late because Millicent and I just didn't want to interfere with your own Wedding date."
"Nathan, I apologize. The identical date was my fault. Charles had nothing to do with it. To be honest, the old me did that out of spite. But the truth is, I don't want either of us to start our new marriages that way! Charles and I will be getting married on the fourth of January, which is also his Birthday. That should give us plenty of time to come to Montreal for yours and Millicent's Wedding, then get back to Hamilton for ours."
"Sounds like you have it all figured out! But Millicent and I will be on our Honeymoon, which regrettably means we won't be able to attend your Wedding in Hamilton."
"Don't worry about that at all! We'll show you all the pictures. Apparently, our small family affair has grown into something much larger," smiled Charles.
Nathan could tell by his look, that Charles was very pleased and proud of that particular detail.
"Rightfully so, you two deserve a celebration equal to ours," agreed Nathan.
"Well, it won't be that," explained Elizabeth. "Being the second Wedding for both of us, it will be a bit quieter. But we're not hiding it either. Instead, we're celebrating it!" announced Elizabeth as she reached for Charles's hand.
"As you both should! Millicent and I are very happy for the two of you! We're also very happy for you to attend our Wedding. There's a letter inside explaining all the information for travel and lodging. Mr. and Mrs. Bradford are insisting on taking care of all that!"
"How wonderful! Do you think I might get a chance to meet him? I hated to interrupt you while he was your guest here in Hope Valley. But I'm dying to speak with him!"
"I'm sure he would be delighted, Charles. If you don't get a chance, remind me, and I'll be sure to introduce you. He's a great man and very easy to talk with!"
"Goodness, Nathan, this is the most beautiful invitation I've ever seen!"
"Afraid I only helped choose the design. We both wanted to keep it simple. Millicent saw to everything else!"
"It's perfection! So elegant! I'm so excited to be coming to the Wedding!"
"Elizabeth, will you be bringing Little Jack and Eliza Jade?"
"I suppose so! We've discussed it and would like both of the children to see Montreal! We'll be leaving from Hamilton, so it should work to bring them both with us."
"Millicent and I were wondering if you would mind for Little Jack and Eliza Jade to participate in the Wedding?"
"Nathan, are you serious?" asked Elizabeth, thunderstruck.
"We would be honored, Nathan. Positively honored!" interjected Charles.
"Thank you, Charles! Then I'll give Millicent the news, and she'll see to having their clothes made. I hope you won't mind Little Jack wearing a Mountie Uniform, as all the men, even the younger ones, will all be in Dress Uniform. Oh, and I am supposed to get sizes!"
"No, I actually love the idea! Jack will be over the moon! I'm writing as we speak!" squealed Elizabeth, who had excitedly jumped up and gone to her desk to scribble out the sizes for both children.
"Oliver is going to be in it too, so Jack and Eliza Jade will have a friend they know!"
"But doesn't Millicent have her own friends she wants to include?" asked Charles, considerately.
"Well, there will be quite a few younger ones. Our nieces and nephews will all be in it too, but we wanted to include our Hope Valley friends as well!"
"I positively love that!" enthused Charles. "And so will the children!"
"To be perfectly honest, Millicent wanted to include all her little friends her foundation has helped, but there were so many, it was just impossible to do! And she certainly didn't want to leave anyone out!"
"Understandable. But to include our children is so very kind, Nathan. After all, this Wedding is going to make all the papers across Canada!" winked Charles.
Nathan chuckled.
"Don't remind me! The closer we get to this extravaganza, eloping feels like it might have been the better option, except for the fact both our mothers would never have let us live it down. And you don't know our mothers! I'd have better chances facing a firing squad…"
Nathan left Elizabeth's rowhouse glad to have offered an olive branch, but missing Millicent more than ever.
He was particularly glad Charles and Elizabeth were delighted at including the children.
He knew Millicent would be pleased as well.
It had been her idea, but he realized she had suggested it for Nathan's benefit.
In his own way, Nathan was honoring his predecessor Jack, by including Little Jack and Eliza Jade in their Wedding.
That had been important to him and somehow seemed to complete his commitment to Jack for protecting his family.
Although deep down, Nathan knew he would always be there for his fallen brother's son.
And somehow, he had no doubt, Jack Sr. knew it too!
"Nathan, you look deep in thought!" commented John Henry Bouchard with a welcoming smile.
"Oh, sorry, John! I suppose I was! Mrs. Bouchard, Antoinette, so good to see you," and Nathan tipped his hat to both ladies, as he had gotten to know them quite well by now. "You all are just the family I'm looking for. Our Wedding Invitation hand-delivered! Millicent and I are delighted to have the entire Bouchard Family in attendance! Travel and Lodging instructions are included, as the Bradfords are insisting on taking care of everything!"
"How delightful! I can't tell you how much I'm looking forward to meeting your Fiancee, Nathan! John Henry has told me so many wonderful things about her. And we personally owe her so very much, as she stepped in and took care of both our children!"
Nathan smiled as he noticed Juliette's love for both of John Henry's children. Since the time she had arrived in Hope Valley, he had been quite impressed with John Henry's wife. And knew without a doubt that Millicent would love her as well!
"We're going to be staying in Hope Valley till Lucas's situation is concluded, but after that, we are thinking of settling in Montreal or Toronto as a solid business hub."
"Millicent, Allie, and I will be spending our summers in Montreal as well. It's a lovely place as is Hope Valley. Richard Bradford, my soon-to-be brother-in-law, happens to live in Toronto, so I'll be sure to see that you meet him so you can discuss that area with him as well. I do know it's quite the business hub. He is also a Barrister who specializes in Corporate Business, the best around I've been told!"
"Even better! If he's half as good as his sister, perhaps we can work out a business arrangement!" smiled John Henry.
"I know he handles all the Bradford businesses."
"Can't have a higher recommendation than that! Sounds like you've just resolved a major business decision for me!"
"Glad to be of help, Sir! Good day to the three of you. Looking forward to seeing all of you at our Wedding…"
Unbelievably, Wednesday evening came before either Nathan or Allie realized it.
"Allie, what have you done to your wardrobe?" asked a shocked Nathan. "It's almost empty!"
"I've packed already, Dad! I was so excited I couldn't wait!"
"But won't everything be wrinkled?"
"No, Sir! I should have said I've gotten everything ready to be packed! Sort of sorted. Everything that's going to Montreal is in the guest room on that old rack, ready to put in our cases Saturday night after the dance!"
"My, you're way ahead of me!"
"Don't worry, Dad! I'll help you get ready too when you get back from Union City!"
"Do you have your bag packed for the Weisses?"
"Right here, Dad!"
"Let me carry it downstairs for you! Mine are already downstairs by the door. But we're going to have to get a move on! Henry's coming by to take your Uncle Bill and me to the Train Depot, so I won't have to leave my car there…"
Downstairs, with their luggage lined up by the door, Nathan and Allie shared an ice-cold ginger ale before they parted.
"Dad, just three and a half days and we go to Montreal! I'm so excited, I can't wait! But then how many days till we see Momma? I just really miss her!"
"We're in the home stretch now, Sweetheart! Sunday will be here before we know it! It normally takes about four and half days of travel on the train if not a bit longer depending on unscheduled stops. But every town we pass will bring us that much closer!"
"I can't wait! Dad, do you think all my new cousins will really love me?"
"I know they will, Allie! And you'll love them! I don't want you to be nervous about meeting them. They've always been a part of my family, which means they're a part of yours already too. We're just making it official with our Wedding!" winked Nathan.
"I can't wait to see Gramma and Grappa too!"
"Me too!" agreed her Dad. "Oh, and as to that packing, I know your Momma has some city clothes waiting for you in Montreal, so you may not have to pack as much as you think! She also mentioned about having new underwear too! She noticed that some of yours have gotten really worn! She also reminded me you've outgrown some as well!"
"Momma's already taking care of us, isn't she, Dad?"
"She sure is. She's already set up an appointment for me with your Grandpapa's tailor. Apparently, I have to be a bit citified too!" grinned Nathan.
Allie laughed.
"You're funny, Dad! After all, you will be in Montreal! So, of course, you'll have to look the part! I sort of love the new stuff! I'm anxious to meet my new Grandmama too!"
"You'll love her, Allie! Victoria's the best! A huge part of my childhood! Oh, Seth said he'd ride along with you on Newton to exercise Serena each day while I'm gone. But you promise me you won't take any risks. Your Momma would be devastated if something happened to her horse or her daughter! And not necessarily in that order!"
Allie giggled.
"I promise, Dad! I'll be super careful!"
"That's got to be Opal now!"
Both Nathan and Allie got up and hugged each other.
"I love you, Allie! Be good for the Weisses! I'll see you by noon on Saturday!"
"Dad?"
"Yes?"
"Will you not be mad at me if I wait to apologize to Mrs. Thornton?"
"No, I will not be mad, Allie. Just as long as we're headed in that direction, I'm fine!"
"We are. I promise. I've forgiven her in my heart. I really have, but I'm just still not quite ready to do it in person, though. Thanks, Dad for understanding!"
Nathan opened the door and as Allie greeted Opal, he picked up Allie's luggage and loaded Mr. Weiss's wagon.
Allie turned back for one last hug.
Nathan bent to kiss the top of her head, and held her tight!
"I'll miss you, Allie!"
"Miss you too, Dad!"
Then he lifted her up into the wagon to sit by Opal.
"Thanks again to you and the Mrs. for tending to her! I should be back by noon on Saturday! Allie, you behave and do as the Weisses ask you to do!"
"Not a problem, she's always good as gold. Just like family, she is!" waved Mr. Weiss, as he took off with both girls, waving. "You have a safe trip, Chief Inspector and don't worry about a thing! We'll take great care of our Girls!"
"I know you will! Tell Mrs. Weiss I'll bring a treat from Union City!"
Nathan waved them off, as Lee pulled up in his car, to drop off Bill.
Laughing, Bill got out of Lee's car.
"Thanks for the ride, Lee! And the jokes!"
Bill grabbed his luggage from the back seat and set them on Nathan's front stoop.
"Looks like I'm just in time! There's Henry comin' now!"
"Let me get my luggage, and lock this place up!"
Henry jumped out of his car.
"Here, Nathan, I'll get your luggage while you do your final check through the house!"
"Thanks, Henry. Almost forgot my dress hat!"
"Conveniently!" laughed Bill.
"Bill, if you make fun of that hat just one more time, I'm going to have you barred from the Ball!"
Both Henry and Bill guffawed.
"I'm serious, Judge! Don't test me…"
After Bill and Nathan embarked on their Train journey, the Conductor pulled them aside.
"If you'll wait here, I'll take you two Gentlemen to your accommodations."
"What's he talking about?" quizzed Bill.
"If you must know, Bill, he's been saving me a Suite when I travel."
"What? A Suite? They never do that for me!"
"Sh! Looks like you'll be with me, Bill. So don't complain!"
"Gentlemen, please follow me this way!"
Nathan and Bill followed the Conductor to a rather empty Passenger Car, one that by now, Nathan was very well familiar with.
The Conductor, Andrew Whittler walked with them to the very last suite.
"I hope this is satisfactory, Chief Inspector."
As Conductor Whittler opened the door, Bill's eyes started to bug out, while Nathan calmly thanked the Conductor.
"This is very nice, Andrew. Deepest appreciation, and gratitude."
Nathan pulled out a significant tip, and discreetly handed it to Andrew, along with a smile of thanks.
"Let me know if you need anything at all, Sir! Perhaps you'll have time for a bit of sleep on our way into Union City."
"That sounds wonderful! Thanks again, Andrew."
"Would it be possible for me to get a meal?" asked Bill.
"Of course, Judge! Just call in whatever you like to the Chef. There's a direct line. He'll see that a steward brings it to you if you prefer not to eat in the dining room! There's a menu here on this desk."
"I'm sure we'll be fine, Andrew. Thanks again!" reassured Nathan.
"Of course, Sir! You and the Judge enjoy!" and with a smile, the Conductor closed the door to the suite.
"What in the world? Is this because you are Chief Inspector? Or is it because you're a Bradford?"
"Probably a bit of both, Bill. I haven't analyzed it. But if you must know, come to think of it, they gave me a suite on my way to see Millicent. So, they didn't even know I was becoming engaged to a Bradford!"
"Well, I'll be! I want this bedroom!"
"Take whichever you like. We won't have but a couple of hours to use them anyway, especially if you're going to eat!"
"Let me see. Aren't you hungry? I'm getting a steak!"
"A steak?"
"Sure! With all the trimmin's!"
"Bill, I'm going to have to pass. Just not that hungry!"
"Suit yourself!"
Bill plopped down on the settee to place his order. And what an order it was!
"Don't you want anything at all?"
"A cup of black coffee might be nice!"
And with that, Nathan sat down with a pad and a pen, along with the three thick files he had brought with him.
"What are you doin'? Workin'? This is supposed to be time for us to relax!"
"I have to, Bill. I have to present these three cases in the morning to the Commissioner. And they aren't right!"
"What do you mean?"
"This first one out of Toronto has the same exact parameters as this third one out of Vancouver! The second one is totally an outlier. But all three are missing the same pertinent information that should have been gathered upon the initial investigation. Yet there's nothing! How could three different investigators make this same blaring mistake on three different important cases, all within the same time frame?"
"Well, if you want my opinion! When I was an inspector, I never answered to anybody but myself! Everybody's not as conscientious as you and me, Nathan! That's just a fact!"
"I suppose so. But I still think it's odd. What's worse, I've uncovered at least a dozen other cases not as serious as these, but missing the same basic information and more!"
"Sounds like to me, they all need to be pulled in from the field for some re-trainin'"
"I think you're right. But that brings us back to our facilities. Review Classes will take a lot more room than we initially intended."
"Maybe, maybe not."
"What do you mean?"
"Run everyone back through a re-trainin' before you start with the new recruits!"
"That's actually not a bad idea! But we're still going to need more space."
"Actually, it's genius," bragged the ever-humble Judge.
Twenty minutes or so had passed when there was a knock on the door.
"Steward, Sir, with your Meal!"
Bill started to open the door, but something his subconscious had noted earlier made him look through the peephole instead.
"Just leave it there. I'll get it in a minute or two!" answered Bill in a high faux voice Nathan had never heard before.
On alert, Nathan observed as Bill kept watching through the peephole.
"You'd better put those files away, Chief Inspector."
"Why?"
"Because as soon as I eat my steak, you're gonna be makin' an arrest…"
"Bill, that is not James Trapper!" declared Nathan, still looking through the peephole as the steward left with what was left of Bill's meal, namely the empty plates.
"Sure, it is! Looks just like him!"
"James Trapper, the expert forger, has a significant limp. He was shot in the knee by the Mounties in 1896 for resisting arrest. That's his twin brother, who happens to be a steward with the Pacific Railway!"
"How do you know he has a twin? And how do you know he works for the railway?"
"It's my job, Bill! Now, will you let me get some shuteye?"
"Well, you don't have to be so snippy! You could have had a steak too, you know!"
Nathan rolled his eyes and departed to his own sleeping quarters.
"Good night, Bill! Glad it was a false alarm!"
Nathan had reviewed those three top cases over and over and knew them backward and forward.
He could pretty much quote them word for word.
He also knew every strength of the three cases, as well as every weakness, and he was not pleased with what he had found.
Now, he just needed to try to relax and dream of Millicent.
Truthfully, he was concerned about her, although Essie had reported she was eating somewhat better.
Thankfully, in the last few weeks, their lunches had kept them connected in a special way, and made the time pass faster for both of them, but despite every effort, Bill had not been removed as their third wheel.
No matter what Nathan had contrived, the Judge had always found a way to make it back smack in the middle of their private time together.
He and Millicent had just decided to laugh about it all!
But, oh, how he longed for some privacy with his Fiancee.
His soon-to-be wife.
How he was missing her!
So much so, that he physically ached inside, longing for her.
As Nathan stretched out across his bed, he did his best to relax.
Surprisingly, there were no worries, no nerves whatsoever about their coming Wedding, although it was turning into something much bigger than either wanted.
But there was one real worry.
Richard, and all of his shenanigans!
The Groom, without doubt, was going to have to put out an all-points alert to his Groomsmen!
Thank goodness, they were not only Mounties but the best of the Mounties.
Why, oh why, did he feel so panicked whenever Richard crossed his mind?
Probably because having been a partner in crime for all of Richard's antics growing up, Nathan knew exactly what the man was capable of and what lengths he would go to make anything and everything happen!
But maybe, just maybe, there was a glimmer of hope.
Surely Victoria would rein him in.
And no one was more formidable than Victoria!
Where Richard was concerned though, a certain favorite poem came to mind...
"Hope" is the thing with feathers -
That perches in the soul -
And sings the tune without the words -
And never stops - at all -
And sweetest - in the Gale - is heard -
And sore must be the storm -
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm -
I've heard it in the chillest land -
And on the strangest Sea -
Yet - never - in Extremity,
It asked a crumb - of me." (*67)
But that was just the thing.
He and Richard were brothers, with all that entailed.
Meaning there was a deep and long intimate history of crumbs.
Best friends who knew everything about the other, actually.
And that was the thing!
All he could see was the coming storm of a beloved brother's payback.
Ah, those never-ending brotherly crumbs…
(*67) "Hope is the Thing with Feathers," Poems by Emily Dickinson, second series in 1891, Published by Roberts Brothers in Boston, Public Domain.