Chapter Sixty-Nine

Adeline had sat up most of the night worried that Bill might wake up and need her.

This wasn't the way she had thought their night would have gone at all.

In fact, she had planned a romantic candle light Dinner for Two in her almost completed little home.

Of course, she needed to find a few of her things that were still packed up to make things a little homier, but all the cleaning had been completed, and with the exception of that ridiculous piano, everything had been put in its proper place.

All in all, her little apartment was a place where she knew she would be happy, until at some point perhaps other arrangements would be made, and although she didn't dare say it out loud, she hoped those arrangements would include Bill.

She had wanted to cook the Dinner for Bill, to let him know how happy she was he had found her, and that he had brought her to Hope Valley for them to start a life together.

What that life was going to look like exactly, she had no idea.

But it was enough for now, just to know they would be together as a couple.

She loved him so, and she had from the moment they met. Although he hadn't seemed quite as smitten. But Bill was hard to read. She had at least learned that about him.

And he didn't let people into his life easily.

She had learned though, over the years, through their interactions, that he had a tender heart.

Despite his gruff exterior, this was a man who had been deeply hurt. He had lost a beloved Son, which probably then caused the loss of a Wife. A Wife he had loved very much.

It was a lot of pain. Too much pain, really. So, he shut himself off concentrating on his work and Hope Valley. He allowed his heart to believe there would be no romance in his present or future. He simply kept on working, trying to make things better and safer for those around him.

But something had happened between the two of them.

Despite all the odds, over the years, they had fallen in love.

And each of them was finding their home, for the first time in a very long time, with each other.

It was almost overwhelming. That's how good it felt. And perhaps, given their age and life experience, it felt even richer to them.

She glanced over to the bed where she thought she had heard a slight moan, and ran to be by his side.

"Sweetheart, it's me. You're okay," and she stroked his hair, trying to get him back to sleep, but he was opening his eyes instead.

"Am I…am I stitched up?"

"All stitched up, as good as new, Sweetheart! You're supposed to take some medicine. Let me run get it…"

"No, don't leave me…" so she sat down beside him on the bed and held his hand instead.

"I'm…I'm so…so sorry. I…I should have lis…listened to you. I'm sorry," his voice was raspy and his eyes were pleading with her.

"You shush. There's nothing to be sorry about William Spencer Avery. You're going to be alright and that's the only thing that matters."

"But your…bowl, your Mother's…b…bowl" he was struggling to get the sentence out.

"The bottom line is that bowl can be replaced, you can't be, my Darling. Everything's okay…"

"I…I love you," it was slurred but he had said it.

He had finally said it and tears sprung to her eyes!

"I love you, so very much!" she said so tenderly, and he closed his eyes.

She bent down to kiss his cheek.

Bill drifted back off, and Adeline sat on her bed beside him, still holding his hand till early dawn.

When he was finally sleeping more soundly, she went to her little Kitchen and put on the Coffee, and started making some Scrambled Eggs and Toast.

'Not very fancy, but it will be go down easy for him,' she thought.

As she was finishing up, there was a single knock on the door.

She thought it was Carson, but it was Nathan standing there instead.

"Just wanted to check in to see how our patient is doing, but mostly to see how you're doing Adeline. You can't have had an easy night.." as he was saying this, he handed her the box of blueberry scones, he had picked up at the Café.

"That's so thoughtful, Nathan, thank you! I'm fine if Bill's fine. He only woke once, his speech was slurred, but he did talk a little. His color looks a lot better. And I'm thankful for all that, but…"

"Adeline, here, it's okay. You're not supposed to be made out of iron. We Men try to pretend we are, but, inside we're just all the same," and he held her while she let the tears flow.

"Nathan, I'm not even a cryer. I don't know what's wrong with me…"

"You love him Adeline. We can all see that. Quite frankly we're so glad you're in his life. We already love you too, just for you. You've had a scare, which makes for a rough start, but it's going to get a lot better. I promise you that! It's funny, Aaron and I are all out of sync today, too, because Bill's here laid up. We really are a team, and when one's down, it hurts. But, if anybody can survive a few stitches, it's that man right there!"

Adeline let out a little laugh, "Aren't you right about that. Why does he have to always be as tough as nails? Wait a minute, where are my manners? I just made some Scrambled Eggs and Toast. Have some with me?"

"Well, since I've already had one Breakfast, make it a tiny bit, and I'd love that!"

"I'm so glad to have you to talk to. I want some cheer in this house! And the problem is I want it now!"

"Want what now?" came a gruff voice.

"Bill, you're awake. I've got to give you your medicine…"

"Naw! Don't need it!"

"Bill Avery, if you don't take this, I'll have Nathan sit on you and put it down your throat myself. You are going to take your medicine… Besides Carson's coming in a bit!" she had put the vial in her pocket and reached for a glass of water she had left on the bedside table.

"I am fine. What's that breakfast I smell?" but at least he had taken the tablet.

Adeline went to get his plate and brought it to the bed, ready to feed it to him.

"I'm not an invalid, I can do this, myself! Now, Nathan you and Aaron better get on over to the Highleys and make sure that…"

"Bill, we know. We just want you well and we want you well quickly. We don't like you being gone! So, just concentrate on getting healed so you can get back to work! We'll take care of the rest."

"You miss me, don't you? Say it! Just go on and say it!"

And Nathan mumbled, "We miss you," under his breath.

"I didn't hear that…"

"Okay, we miss you! Now, hurry up and get well! That's the only job you have for now."

"Hey, Nathan, will you tell Nathaniel what happened? Well, don't tell him exactly what happened. Just tell him I'm laid up and I need him to look at that stack of cases on my desk. If there's anything that can't wait, have him bring the files to me! The rest of the stuff, just stuff it under the desk!"

"No, that's not happening on my watch! You Bill Avery, are going to take every second of this day and put all of your energy into healing yourself. No cases. You got that?" and the charming forced smile on Adeline's face was as threatening as her calm cheery voice.

Nathan was impressed. Old Bill had met his match!

"Listen, I can see you're in very capable hands, and I'd better get on those errands and get back to work. Got to check on Carson, too. You're not getting a whole week off for this you know!"

"Eh, give me a day and I'll be my old self again! And no, I am not staying in this bed all day. It's as hard as a bed of rocks!"

"That's because you didn't put the right springs under it!" and Nathan could see that Adeline and Allie were going to get along famously, because Adeline gave an eye roll that would match Allie's any day!

Adeline went into the Kitchen to clear away the mess from making Breakfast, and to get away from her cranky Bill for a moment.

She softly shut the door behind her.

Bill hissed in a loud whisper, "Nathan, get over here quick!"

"What do you need Bill?"

"I need you to have the Café fix Filet Mignons tonight for dinner about 6PM, with all the trimmings, and have them send some good Red Wine, a couple of Candles, and a real sexy Dessert, too!"

"A sexy Dessert? What's a…"

"Shhh! Just do it! And have Elizabeth come and get AJ out by 5:30 for a Girl's whatever. Make Elizabeth keep her out till after six! And have Rosemary bring me a decorated Christmas Tree at the same time. You got all that?"

"Got all that," Nathan whispered, sighing heavily, shaking his head.

'The man was practically on his deathbed last night and now he's planning a romantic dinner?' thought Nathan. 'Is this insanity or what?'

"Good, now go do it!" ordered Bill, as he stretched and tried to peek his head around the door to see what Adeline was doing, but she had shut it tight.

"And bring me that book over there! Hurry!" he whispered.

Nathan reluctantly did, and Bill promptly hid it under the bed covers.

Then he plastered an innocent smile on his face just in time for Adeline's return!

But Bill had forgotten one thing, his Jacket. And boy, did he need that Jacket. Oh, well, he'd figure it out, later! Couldn't say anything now, as Adeline was standing in the doorway!

'Wait, Carson's coming, I just have to remember to tell him to hand me my jacket! Easy peasy!' or so he thought.

"Adeline, I best be going. If you need anything at all, just pick up the phone and ask for me. Bill behave and don't drive Adeline crazy!" instructed Nathan. "You've already put her through enough!"

Nathan first checked in on Carson, and helped carry his bag back to Adeline's since he was on the crutches Nathan had predicted.

"Carson, you need me to stay and help you back to your Office?" asked Nathan.

"No, thanks, Nathan. I'll be fine. A little slow, but fine. I've got to get used to it for a few days or so!"

"Think of it this way…it will make you a better doctor, not that you need to be any better! But at least you'll have empathy when you have to hand those things out!"

Carson laughed, "You've got that right!"

After Carson was settled with his grumbly patient, Nathan left with his directives from Bill, as puzzling as they were, and started checking them off one by one.

He'd have to wait and catch Elizabeth after School to tell her about the role Bill expected her to play this evening.

He was lucky to catch Rosemary at the Dress Shoppe, as Carson had already cleared her. Lee had been so worried, he came and personally drove Carson to his house, just to check Rosemary out and make sure everything was okay.

"For Bill? Anything. Consider it done, Nathan!" and Rosemary smiled her brilliant smile, which seemed to be even more brilliant since her pregnancy.

When he popped into the Café, Clara didn't even question his instructions, "That old Coot, we already miss him! We'll make it perfect! But, Nathan, what's a sexy dessert?"

"I haven't a clue! You're on your own with that one…"

Nathan caught Nathaniel at the Café as well, as he had been in need of what he said was a 'decent' cup of coffee.

"That incorrigible man is the most disorganized Judge I've ever seen in my life, but it works for him. He gets the job done, and I guess that's what matters! Shove it under the desk? What did you say happened? And give it to me straight, cause I know he told you to make up something!"

"What can I say? You know him so well, Nathaniel!"

Back on the Boardwalk, Nathan couldn't help but notice again how festive Hope Valley looked for the Holidays.

However, he didn't remember it looking quite as good as this last year.

'Or just maybe, I'm enjoying the festivities more, as this is the first Christmas, with Elizabeth and me officially together as a couple!' and he smiled at the wonderful thought of that!

The day for Aaron and Nathan had gone fast, because they had both been so busy. But even Tillie had been depressed with Bill gone. She kept going to the door, expecting him to walk in, and finally Aaron and Nathan had felt so sorry for her, Aaron took her to see Bill, while Nathan covered work.

"Nathan, you should have seen those two! Tillie jumped right in bed with Bill, but it was like she knew he was hurt, so she curled up on his good side and didn't even want to come back with me. I think Bill's her favorite! And I can tell you, she sure put a smile on Bill's face!"

"They're pretty tight for sure! I guess, it's official, we're a Team of Four! Especially Tillie, since you got clearance from Commissioner Blake, himself! While you two were gone, I've gotten everything wrapped up. What do you say, we go see Elizabeth and Felicity!"

The moment Allie saw her Dad walking toward the School, she came running up to greet him.

"To what do I owe this honor, Allie Bean?"

"Dad, I talked to Mrs. Williams and Laila. Then I talked to Mrs. Thornton. And everything is settled, if you're okay with it?"

"And what would that be?"

"Laila's thrilled to give me lessons at her house or at the Church. And she doesn't even want to charge me, but I told her we wouldn't do it unless she let us pay. And Mrs. Thornton thinks I should do it on Wednesday after school, so that won't interfere with any weekend activities we might plan, and that way we'll already be at the Church, and both us can just go home from there! I'm so excited, Dad!"

"And I'm excited for you. But Allie, promise me you practice as much as Laila says you need. That's the only way this is going to work."

"I promise Dad! So, it's okay?"

"It's more than okay," and he took her up and swung her around. "I'm very proud of you, Allie!"

Allie was jubilant and she ran back to tell all her friends who were still there, her news!

As Nathan walked up the steps, Elizabeth met him just inside the door, but she quickly pulled him to the side and hungrily kissed him before he even knew what was happening, but he was quickly on board…

"Hmm, Elizabeth," and there it was again, that beautiful, lyrical 'Lizbeth,' her name as only he could say it.

Her name flowed from his lips like music, directly into her heart. He even seemed to glide over a couple of the vowels, always speaking her name with tenderness and something very akin to reverence, giving her his rapt attention, each and every time.

He had been the only one in her life to have ever spoken her name in that way, and he was the only one who had ever made her feel cherished, every single time he spoke it!

His unique version was one of his many special gifts to her, and it positively charmed her heart as well as her being. It always had.

She would never ever tire of hearing him call her by her name in that way! And she knew with joy deep in her heart, he would never, ever say it differently.

"Elizabeth, I like this. I like this very much…I take it you've had a better day?" but he didn't wait for her answer, and she hadn't planned to give it. He didn't even need an answer, because he already knew that she had, and all they wanted was each other.

They were now only intent on enjoying their stolen moment together.

When they drew apart, it was with sly smiles on both their faces, and all was right in their world again.

"How's Bill, Love?"

"About that, I'm supposed to give you a message. And to answer you're question, he must be doing better or he wouldn't be asking you to do this. Apparently, he is planning a very romantic Dinner for Adeline at her apartment tonight, since the poor guy does seem to be confined there. He had me to tell Clara to fix Filet Mignons and all the trimmings with Red Wine and a 'sexy' dessert I might add. Now, neither Clara nor I know what that means, but obviously Clara has to figure it out. I'm sure glad I'm not the one!"

"Where do I come in?'"

"You, my Darling are supposed to pick Adeline up at 5:30pm this evening and convince her to go to some 'Girl's whatever,' his words, not mine, and keep her there till 6pm! He also instructed me to have Rosemary deliver a decorated Christmas Tree, no less. So, something's definitely up!"

"Nathan, is Bill…proposing?"

"Darling, I don't know. But, come to think of it, it does sort of sound like that, doesn't it?"

"I can't believe it! Does the man even have a ring? Oh, this could go wrong on so many levels. He just had thirty-two stitches! What is he thinking, I mean how is he…oh, nevermind! Afterall, Bill IS the Charmer. If anyone can pull it off, I suppose he can. But, I sure do hope he has a ring!"

"Well, it could just be a romantic Dinner welcoming her to Hope Valley, thanking her for taking care of him, you know anything like that…"

"I know, you're right! But, don't you think it's odd?"

"Yes, I thought it was odd when he asked! But you know Bill, he has his own way of doing things!"

"Good grief, that doesn't leave me much time! You think Felicity would go with me? Maybe we'd have better luck together. And Rosemary, if she's feeling alright! Would you take care of Frederic and Jack, so I can get Lee to deliver the Christmas Tree?"

"I would be happy to take care of both Jack and Frederic. And Rosemary's fine. Carson cleared her early this morning. In fact, she worked at the Shoppe today. And you can call Felicity since Aaron had their phone installed this morning."

"You are so good to me!"

"Oh, we boys and Allie will have fun! Your house or mine, whichever is easiest for you!"

"Mine would be better since all the toys are there! Plus believe me, you don't want to have to clean up their mess!"

"Elizabeth, it's such a lovely idea, but I just can't possibly leave Bill!" and Adeline was firm.

"Oh, Lee's coming over to sit with Bill, and believe me, you won't find a better Nurse anywhere. I have first-hand experience!" piped in Rosemary. "The man won't let me do a thing!"

"AJ, put on a pretty dress and go! You've been couped in here all day. Now, get a move on…I want to catch up with Lee!"

"Are you certain, Sweetheart?"

"I am very certain! Wear that dress I like so much, the one with all the lace…you look beautiful in that, Love!"

"Well, if you're sure…it would be nice to have a little break and catch up with all of you. But, only if you're sure!" and then she suspiciously added, "Bill, if I didn't know you were stuck in this bed all day, I'd declare up and down, you wanted to get rid of me for some reason!"

"You? Never, my Darlin!"

"Lee, this Christmas Tree is perfect! I've never seen one more beautiful! Can you put a few nice records on the Victrola? You know something romantic!" suggested er ordered Bill.

"Clara, make sure to let the linen tablecloth touch the floor and fold the napkins real pretty, and put those extra red roses Ned brought smack dab in the center! Don't take the food out till just before 6. I want everything piping hot! Oh, and don't forget to chill the wine!"

Clara just rolled her eyes and went on about her business of setting the table and completing her many tasks!

Bill was barking out these orders from his bed in order to save his strength for the night. Carson had been Bill's partner in crime to see that the flowers were brought just after 5:30, after the Ladies had left. But Bill had forgotten his Jacket!

Lee had brought Bill a fresh Suit, Shirt, and Tie from Bill's place, just in case he needed it and he did! That had been one thing Bill hadn't thought about.

"Lee, hand me that jacket!" and Lee did as he was told.

Bill reached in and was relieved.

"Okay, now help me up so I can get dressed real quick. You might have to help me a bit!"

"Great!" murmered Lee.

"What?"

"Happy to help!" said Lee more loudly, and with a broad smile!

Finally, everything was ready, and Adeline's place had been transformed…

"William Spencer Avery, what's all this and why aren't you in bed?" Adeline was stunned when she opened the Door and saw Bill standing there, and then when she looked around him, she was indeed speechless.

Bill looked as handsome as she had ever seen him, although still a little pale.

Romantic Love Songs were wafting through the air.

Red Roses filled her Apartment.

There stood a gorgeously decorated Christmas Tree in front of her window, out of nowhere.

The table was set with Crystal, Silver and the most beautifully folded White Linen Napkins. A White Linen Tablecloth reached the floor. And apparently Dinner was on the table under huge Silver Domes, with Wine being chilled beside it!

"Adeline Foster, may I have this Dance?"

"Bill,…"

"Hush, Love, we'll make it a slow one," and they did. "Ouch!"

"Sorry, Sweetheart!"

"Just put your hand a little higher on my shoulder and we're gonna be fine! That's it!"

With his one good arm, Bill drew Adeline, his AJ, close to him as they held each other and danced together.

"Love, you didn't have to go to all this trouble just to welcome me to Hope Valley, but it is very, very sweet," she whispered.

He smiled knowingly, and drew her even closer.

He kissed her as they danced, so happy to hold her, and in all his many years, Bill had never quite felt what he was now feeling.

"Are you hungry?" he asked her softly.

"Maybe a little…"

"Come this way, Mademoiselle!"

"Oh, Bill, how lovely! Red roses are my favorite. And the table looks absolutely divine!"

He had even lit Candles, a favorite of Adeline's.

Bill held her chair and bent to kiss the back of her neck, lingering a moment longer than he had meant to. Adeline giggled and put her hand to his cheek. And he inched a bit further until his lips met hers.

Neither had ever been this happy.

Bill served the Dinner, "Filet Mignon, just the way you like it, Potatoes Dauphinoise, with a Mixed Greens Salad. And of course, no meal is complete without my famous Yeast Rolls, although, I will tell you, had I been there, these would have risen a full inch higher!"

She laughed as he took his chair.

"This is perfect, Love. Thank you!"

Bill poured the Chilled Red Wine with his good arm.

"Oh, Bill, this is heavenly!"

They ate their meal, with lots of fun conversation and laughter mixed in, just so happy to be together, especially after the events of last night! They ate until they couldn't eat another bite.

But there was one thing more.

And Bill got up to serve his 'sexy' Dessert.

On each of his small Silver Dessert Plates, sat a Meringue in a Pool of Crème Anglais, and each Meringue was surrounded by a trio of Chocolate Covered Strawberries.

Bill scooted close, and fed his AJ the main part of the Dessert spoonful by spoonful, and then he brought the Strawberries to her lips, eating one with her, both of them laughing and getting Chocolate everywhere!

He wiped her face and his own with the extra Linen Napkin, and then poured them another glass of Wine.

"Bill, this has been perfect! Promise me we'll do this often, just the two of us!"

He rose from his chair and knelt in front of hers, as if to show her his promise was true, "Darlin, I do promise many, many more Dinners just like this to come! I'll even cook them for you."

She reached to kiss him, and when they parted, "Here, let me help you up!"

"No, Love, I'm quite comfortable here," and Bill's eyes were literally shining into hers.

And he reached into his pocket and Adelinine's hands covered her mouth in astonishment.."

"I have never loved anyone like I love you. I want you. I need you. And I can't see myself living another day without you," and he opened the tiny velvet jewel box to reveal the most beautiful Emerald and Diamond Engagement Ring Adeline had ever seen.

"Will you spend the rest of your days with me as my best friend, my Wife? AJ, Darlin, will you marry me?"

She had never seen him look so serious, and she would never doubt his love for her ever again!

And with tears flooding down her face, "YES!" she shrieked, so loudly that most of Hope Valley heard it!