Second Chances for Nathan Chapter 12, Part 4, Page 74
The wounded soldiers staying at Henry's cabin were healing and feeling better every day. There was no more that Dr. Carson could do for them at this point as they were progressing as best as he expected. "Faith, I don't know if there's any more I can do that you can't handle with these soldiers," Carson was explaining. "I'm releasing them to go home. You are quite capable of caring for these men with home visits without me."
"Carson, you aren't going back to your surgical residency now are you?" Faith looked at him with despair.
"Faith, I know how hard this is for you and for me. Both of us knew I would be gone for awhile. It's been a minor miracle that the timing worked out for me to come and help here and be with you, but I've got to get back now." Carson hoped she'd understand.
Faith looked away. She looked out the window and knew he was right. "I don't want to admit it, but I knew this was coming, I just didn't think it would come so soon. When do you plan on leaving?"
"Monday, so we have just a few days, but I will try to be back for a visit during Christmas break." Carson reassured Faith as he grabbed her in a tight embrace. "I love you Faith, and I want a life with you." Then they kissed and held each other. Faith knew in her heart that was what she wanted too.
Molly walked in and smiled, "Excuse me, but we have one of the soldier's, David Meyer's parents coming here now as they want to talk to one of you about the care of David's leg when he comes home with them."
"No problem, Faith and I both will talk with them. It's fine Molly." they all laughed.
Later that day when he returned to Brook Springs, Bob excitedly told his family about starting work for Lee Coulter and all three of them were thrilled. Finally, a home for them to settle in and begin their life as a family with a future! Karen was more excited knowing she would be able to join her new friend, Allie.
Emily had talked with Jack about taking care of the farm alone for a few months when she would leave in October to spend time with her son and granddaughter. She asked him about caring for Barrett along with his new pup that he just adopted. He told her that Nicholas was enjoying the puppy and Barrett would be a good watch dog so it would work out just fine. Berta just needed food, water and pasture. Jack would need to tend to the machinery and make sure to fix any problems. Emily promised him a good wage for his help and he agreed. So, with that settled, Emily started making plans and looking forward to visit Hope Valley!
Elizabeth and Dee discussed their ideas of how to incorporate music into their curriculum. Dee agreed that it would be ideal if she would teach how to read music, singing, and listening to music. The more they learned they could try writing lyrics or composing pieces, and learning about musicians and composers. Those that wanted to learn to play instruments or take voice lessons would stay after school on Mondays and Wednesdays. She would go up to Brookfield every other week to teach on Fridays. "I can't wait until Sunday for the potluck," Dee remarked, "I'm so looking forward to meeting all the children!"
"Yes, it will work out perfectly the day before school starts," Elizabeth nodded. "Rosemary always has the best ideas for events, you'll find out! By the way, I see you with Nathan and wonder how long have you known him?"
"Nathan and I go way back! We grew up together. I haven't seen him in quite some time but I must admit I was quite taken aback when I saw him this summer!" Dee said joyfully.
"How so?" Elizabeth was curious.
"Elizabeth, haven't you noticed? He's very handsome, kind, a great dad to Allie, and such a gentleman! Any woman would be lucky to have this charming man call on her." Dee gushed.
"Oh, yes, I suppose you're right." Elizabeth swallowed hard. "Well, we're done for now, I'll be seeing you soon."
"Yes, thank you Elizabeth, I'm so glad we are able to work together." Dee left Elizabeth rather stunned at her desk as she left.
Walking home, Allie and Robert waved to Dee from the pond where they were fishing. "Caught some dinner for dad." Allie called.
Dee smiled and said, "Remember how Oma taught you to cook the fish slow on the skillet and not too long or it will get tough. You'll be cooking for your dad just like your grandmother in no time."
"I remember. Dad says he needs to talk with grandfather so, we're having him over for dinner. I can't wait to show him how Oma taught me to cook." Allie said happily. Did you hear that Karen is moving down here to Hope Valley?"
"Yes, that's great news Allie, I'm happy too." Dee smiled."I'll see you tomorrow."
"Tomorrow?" Allie looked puzzled.
"Oh didn't your dad tell you?" Dee started, "He's taking me in the country around town so I can see the area. We're going to have a picnic!"
"That sounds like fun." Robert commented.
"You'll see how pretty it is here." Allie added. "You know, I think you and dad will have a great time together."
"Me too, Allie, me too." Dee grinned.