CHAPTER 4
Two weeks away had given Nathan time to think things through, no distractions, no rounds, no reminders. Talking to his Mum, she was always the best listener, helped him start to formulate a plan.
Allie seemed a lot happier away from Hope Valley, she did miss her friends but was making new ones and loved spending time with her grandma. Now she was older she could help with the house, after living with Uncle Nathan for 10 years now she could turn her hand to most things. Grandma seemed to get a new lease of life after they had arrived. They had two days before they needed to head back. Sat around the table after dinner Nathan's Mum said she had an idea.
"Son I have been thinking if you are still undecided about your future in Hope Valley, why doesn't Allie stay here with me, well if you would like that?" she said looking at Allie.
"Just until your plans are settled. Allie could start school here, it is a good one, most of the friends you have made attend there Allie. You would be a great comfort to me and help too. If you do decide to leave Hope Valley it would make sense to me. Only a suggestion though."
"What do you think Allie, it's up to you? It does seem a perfect solution for now."
"I would love that Uncle Nathan, but will you be OK on your own?"
He had to smile; his little girl was growing so quickly into a fine you lady who he knew would do anything for him.
"I will be fine, it's only until I see what I can sort out with HQ, then we can decide what we will do".
"In that case, I would prefer to stay with Grandma, for now, oh, but I will write a letter to Robert, and one to Opal, will you take them back with you?"
"That sounds like a great idea, I will deliver them as soon as I get back."
"Are you sure about this Mum"?
" I have never been more certain son I am quite excited at the thought".
Two days later as he made his way back into Hope Valley, letters in his pocket he felt much more positive. The aching heart was still there, would that ever go he wondered, would it be a scar he carried for life. Just before he had left his Mum had said something to him that made him think
"Nathan, a broken heart will leave a scar, like any injury, you need to let it heal and not pick the scab. Leave it to knit together and remember son that if you are brave enough to say goodbye life will often reward you with a new Hello."
She was right as always. As difficult as it was going to be he needed to try to forget, not dwell on the if only's and what-ifs. He had a plan, well two really, he would speak to HQ then make the decision which path to take. Either way, he would be leaving Hope Valley in the not-too-distant future.
He closed his eyes, steps 4 and 5 done he said in his mind and again thanked whoever, whatever had spoken to him that day at the cabin.