Chapter 100: Snafus & Wedding Prep
"Bill, I think you'd better be making some different Honeymoon Plans. You can't have Adeline sleeping out in the Snow!"
"Nathan, can you call your Friend at that fancy Hotel we stayed at in Union City? What was the name of that place? I think I can still get late Train Tickets."
"Le Havre, Bill. You want the Bridal Suite?"
"Of course! Only the Best for my Bride! But if we'd known this, we could have just kept our Wedding Day as the Day before Valentine's!"
"Bill, you were going to have her sleep out on the frozen ground? Shh! Let me give Pierre a call!"
"Well, I guess, I should tell you, I already have the Bridal Suite reserved there for Saturday – Friday!"
"And you don't even know the name of the Hotel you're staying in? Bill, that's pretty important to know. So, you just need it for this Friday night too?"
"Yep!"
"Well, that shouldn't be a big deal! Let me check!"
"Hello, yes, this is Constable Grant and I'm calling for Judge William Spencer Avery. He has a Reservation for your Bridal Suite reserved from this Saturday through next Friday. Would it be possible for them to arrive a day early on this Friday?"
Nathan placed his hand over the phone's mouthpiece, "They're checking."
"That's great. Yes, definitely. Please change their arrival from Saturday to this Friday. But they'll be arriving on the late Train from Hope Valley. Yes…okay, thank you! And please give Pierre my regards!"
"Nathan, you just called yourself Constable Grant!"
"Bill, does it matter?"
"It would matter if Harold heard you! Say it after me. Chief Inspector!"
"I think it's more important, Judge Avery, to let you know that you and your beautiful Bride now have the Suite for your Wedding Night! And Le Havre will have a Car to pick you up from the late Train. But Bill, you haven't even told Adeline?"
"No, I wanted to surprise her!"
"Oh, you'll surprise her alright. Clothes, Bill! She will need dressier Clothes than Camping Clothes! And you need to tell her the name of the Hotel. At least one of you needs to know it. Aaron and I won't be there to bail you out!"
"Oh, no! Hadn't even thought about Clothes. Guess I'll have to pack a couple of Suits, too!"
"You think? Honestly, Bill. You'd better go straighten this out with Adeline right now. She may need to buy a few things! And as your Best Man, I am not going to be held responsible for this snafu!"
"I've got plenty of time," growled Bill.
"Now, Bill. She has less than 30 hours as we speak! Do I need to walk you there, myself?"
"Well, it might be a good idea if you did come along. I don't want her going off on me or anything! I hate to mess up that Diamond Necklace. That sure did make her awful happy!"
"Aaron, excuse us, while I walk the Judge to his premature death! And if the Bride doesn't kill him, I'm going to!"
"So long, Men!" laughed Aaron. "Tillie and I will wait right here, won't we Tillie? Oh, and don't forget the Train Tickets!"
Yes, for a Groom, at least this Groom, it truly does take a Village!
And a most dedicated Best Man and Groomsman…
"William Spencer Avery! When were you going to tell me? You were sending me out on my Horse and in Camping Clothes for a Honeymoon at Le Havre?"
"Darlin' just go to Rosemary's and buy whatever you need. I'll pay!"
"Oh, you'll pay alright. I'm getting everything I need and more! And for your information, there'll be even more purchases in Union City! Lots of them!"
Then Adeline turned to Nathan.
"Thank you, Nathan. Because I know you're the one who made him think to tell me! But since it's snowing, do you think we can borrow your Sleigh to get from the Church to the Queen of Hearts for the Wedding?"
"Already done. I've got Seth cleaning it now and grooming the Horses. Think you could get the Florist to add some Decorations? I mean you don't need anything as elaborate as Lucas and Sophie did. But a Flower Garland or two would be nice!" explained Nathan. "I'll make sure the Fur Blankets are warmed, too!"
"Of course, I'll make the call. Because Hell would freeze over if I waited for my Groom to do it!"
"Now, Darlin'!"
"Don't you Darlin' me! Honestly, Bill, must Nathan and I do everything ourselves? And you pack your very best Clothes. Oh, who am I kidding? We'll have to buy you suitable Clothes when we get there! Maybe the Ladies at my Bridal Party knew what they were talking about when they mentioned Honeymoon Shopping! Hmph! Sounds like there's going to be a lot of it! And I hate to ask you, Nathan, but do you mind calling the Florist from your Office?"
"Be happy to make the call, Adeline. You just worry about getting your Clothes together!"
And there it was, an exact copy of Adeline's Niece Allie's favorite eyeroll, totally directed at the Groom!
But he was really getting off fairly easy, all things considered!
"And Nathan, I hate to ask you, but do you think you could maybe help Bill pack? If you don't, you and I both know it's not going to get done. Oh, my Word, Bill, are you a Child?"
"I'll try, Adeline!" and Nathan reached to kiss the Bride's cheek, while the Groom sort of stood back, not knowing whether he should even try.
But being the Good Sport she was, Adeline finally laughed, and gave Bill a quick kiss, as she grabbed her Coat, Hat, Scarf, and Gloves, to walk down the street arm in arm with them both, and make sure they made it to Bill's place, on her way to Rosemary's Shoppe.
"Oh, this is going to cost you, Bill Avery! Big time!" she said under her breath. "I am literally taking a Child to raise!"
Nathan had to cough on that one…
"Rosemary, Taleisha, I know this sounds ridiculous. But apparently, I need a complete Trousseau! I finally found out we're staying at Le Havre in Union City for the Week."
"That's wonderful! But what about the Camping?"
"Well, with the Snow, Bill had to cancel the Camping and add a night onto our Hotel Reservations, which of course, I did not even know about!"
"Well then, thank the Good Lord up above for the Snow! But, goodness, Adeline, this doesn't leave us much time to make the Alterations!"
"I know, Rosemary, and I'm so very sorry. I just found out, and I don't think I would have known at all had it not been for Nathan! Anyway, I told Bill he's paying for this one dearly! Imagine me showing up at Le Havre in my Camping Clothes on my Horse! That Man! I don't think he knows how to think two steps ahead!"
"Now, don't you worry, Adeline. I'm all caught up and I'll get any Alterations you need done in plenty of time," assured Taleisha, "Even if I have to stay a bit late or take them Home with me. We'll get you ready for your Honeymoon, Girl!"
"Taleisha, you're the best. Whatever would I do without you two!"
"Well, you're a perfect Size Eight, so we shouldn't have too much trouble. Okay, Day Dresses first, then Evening, then Negligees! Let Taleisha and me start grabbing in the back and you look too, here in the front, to see if anything pops out at you!" instructed Rosemary.
In a matter of minutes, Rosemary and Taleisha returned with armloads of Dresses and Gowns they placed in the Dressing Room. It had taken them both to scour the newer Racks in the back.
"Let the damage begin! These are all your Size. And they're all the latest Designs from New York. Are there any that are a definite no at first glance?"
"Are you kidding? I'm desperate here, and Beggars cannot be choosers! I'll try them all!"
"Let me go get the Negligees! Taleisha's going to help you with the Clothes."
Adeline tried on Dress after Dress, Gown after Gown, then Negligee after Negligee till, finally, she had her Trousseau.
"And to think, I thought my Trousseau was going to consist solely of Camping Clothes! My Napsack was even packed!"
Adeline was pleased, Rosemary was pleased, and only four needed to be Altered, so Taleisha was pleased. In fact, she was so relieved, she had already started on them diligently, in the Back Room.!
"You've made a beautiful selection, Adeline. These suit you perfectly! But, there are so many, I'll bring them by this evening in the Car when I get off work. And I think it's best I put them in Hanging Bags, so they'll be easier to transport on the Train. That way, you won't have anything extra to pack."
"Oh, that would be wonderful! I suppose I'd better look at Lingerie too since we're getting all fancy with all these beautiful new Clothes!"
"Yes, of course. Let me get a new box of the latest from the back, while you look at these in the front Case."
Adeline made a few selections from those in the Case, but when she saw the new Pieces, her eyes literally lit up and she selected several that she thought were perfect, laying them aside in a neat stack for Purchase.
Rosemary leafed through the Dresses and Gowns.
"Wait a minute, I have a couple of pairs of Shoes custom made for these two Dresses, and I think they would blend with the others. What size are you, Adeline?"
"Size Seven."
"I think we're in business!" Rosemary exited for a couple of moments and quickly returned with two of the most beautiful pairs of Heels.
"Here, try these while I go get the matching Handbags!"
"Rosemary, this pair is perfect! Let me try the second pair…oh, and do you have any fancy Slippers?"
"Let me check while I grab the Bags…."
After several minutes, Rosemary reappeared with her arms full yet again.
"Here are the matching Handbags, and here are the Slippers!"
"Oh, they're so pretty! But, I don't think I can decide."
"Let's just put them both in. The Slippers are on me! Happy Wedding! Also, here are the Pictures we order from and the Pieces of Fabric Swatches that match your new Dresses, so you can stop by Sophie's to see what Hats she has that might match!"
"Thank you, Rosemary! I hadn't even thought of that. Will do! It is Union City, after all! And Hats are pretty much required!"
Adeline reached to kiss Rosemary on the Cheek, then went to Taleisha in the back to do the same!
"You two have saved me and our Honeymoon! And this Bride is forever grateful! I'm getting so excited! Love you both so very much!"
"Love you, too, Adeline! Can't wait to hear all about the Honeymoon!" teased Rosemary.
"Love you, Girl! You're going to look so beautiful you'll take Union City by storm!" called Taleisha.
And off Adeline trudged through the Cold to Sophie's Milliner's Shoppe!
"Sophie, I hate to be a bother, but I've just learned that apparently, my Honeymoon is no longer a Camping Trip. I've had to buy a whole new Trousseau for Union City. Could you possibly help me find Hats that will work with my new Outfits? I have the Pictures of each Design along with the matching Fabric Swatches. Will that be enough for us to go by?"
"Oh, Good Afternoon, Adeline. Welcome! And yes, of course. That's actually perfect. Here, grab a Seat and get comfortable. I'll get us some Hot Tea and we'll go over them together!"
By the time Adeline took off her Coat, Hat, Scarf and Gloves, and made herself comfortable, Sophie had the Hot Tea made.
"Here are both Sugar and Honey, along with some Lemon. Help yourself. Now, let me see…"
And she started leafing through the Sheets and the Fabric Swatches.
"Oh, Adeline, these are lovely! And leave it to Rosemary to make it so easy for us to find just the right Hats. I'll have to remember to thank her for that!"
"I'm not very good at this Sophie, I think I'm just going to have to rely on what you think is best."
"No, first, we're going to try on several different Styles to see what suits you best. I have a pretty good eye. Here, let's start with this one!"
"You have a very good eye! I love this! Do you think it matches the Blue?"
"It will when I change the Ribbon, let me show you…"
Sophie walked to the back of her Shoppe and brought out several hues of beautiful Blue Ribbon for Adeline to look at. Then she started by laying the different Ribbons on the coordinating Fabric. Okay, now stand up, and let's back away from it. Which looks best?"
"That's amazing. I thought it was the first. But it's this one, isn't it?" asked an incredulous Adeline.
"Yes, it's actually perfect with this Fabric. See how it brings out the richer tones? And look when I add this…" and Sophie held up the most beautiful, but simple, Jeweled Piece, and the Hat was totally transformed."
"That's it, Sophie. I don't think it could be any better!"
"Let's set it aside and I'll put it together this afternoon. Now, onto the next shape…my…Adeline, you could be a Hat Model. You have beautiful bone structure and I think your shorter hair is perfect, too! This one looks great also! What do you think about this Style with this Dress?"
"I think it's perfect!"
"Okay, now let me find what goes with it best…which do you prefer?"
"I think this."
"Now, let's step back…"
"No, it's this one, isn't it?"
"You're getting it. This one is perfect. The Geometric Pattern gives it the perfect contrast. I'll add a Geometrical Knot, and that's all we're going to need. And maybe a Feather or too! Sound good?"
"Sounds perfect. Oh, this is so much fun. How did you get so good at this? If you don't mind my asking."
"My Mother was a Designer, a fairly famous one, at least in San Francisco! She did mostly Dresses and Gowns, but she dabbled in Hats for her Shows, and I was just fascinated. I do these in honor of her, you might say!"
"Oh, Sophie, I'm sure she's so proud. Look at you. It's definitely your Talent!"
"Thank you, Adeline, that's lovely of you to say!" smiled Sophie. "Here, this one next? Do you like it? No, wait, let's tilt it this way!"
"Oh, I love this too!"
"I think this shape goes with the Emerald Tweed Fabric. Let's see…"
Sophie left and quickly returned with a Heavy Woolen Fabric that coordinated perfectly with the Tweed, and she quickly rolled a Band to place around the Crown of the Hat, and the Hat was truly transformed.
It was positively amazing to watch her as she created her Masterpieces!
And they were truly Masterpieces. Very exquisite!
"This one may need to be your Going Away Outfit, Adeline! You just look striking in the Emerald, and it matches your Engagement Ring!"
"Hadn't thought about that, but I do think it's my favorite!"
Adeline and Sophie shared stories with each other as Sophie worked, and just had a whole lot of fun together, matching each Outfit of her new Trousseau to the perfect Hat and Embellishments, until finally they were done with their many Selections.
"Sophie, you need to give a Demonstration at our next Women's Club Meeting!"
"Oh, I couldn't do that!" she answered shyly.
"Nonsense, you are a Professional. I had no idea you could do all this, and the other Ladies of Hope Valley need to know it too. I think most think you order your Hats in, without realizing you can do such beautiful Custom Work. Why your Works would thrive in any major City, Sophie, even New York. You are extremely talented. And the Town needs to see that!"
Sophie blushed.
"We're going to do it in honor of your Mother, Sophie. When I get back, I'll set it all up. Do you Trust me?"
"I trust you, Adeline. And thank you ever so much. I would love to do it for my Mother! I miss her so, and it's not something I want to burden Lucas with."
"Sweetheart, telling your Husband you miss your Mother is not burdening him. That Man adores you. Everyone knows that. You start sharing and be yourself! You both will grow stronger for it!"
"How did you get to be so wise?"
"Age, Dear! And experience! After my Marriage to Bill, you may be the one counseling me!"
"Someday," laughed Sophie. "I think I have a long way to go in that department!"
"Not as far as you think, Sweetie! Not at all as far as you think! Just be your beautiful self."
"Why don't I finish all these up tonight and tomorrow morning. I'll pack them in Hat Boxes with lots of Tissue for you to Travel safely with them. Is it okay as long as I deliver them tomorrow by half-past Two to your Home?"
"That's perfect! And Sophie, I've really enjoyed getting to know you better. Lucas is a very lucky man!"
Sophie reached to kiss Adeline, "Thank you, I'm just so happy to know you better, too! And I'm thrilled for you and the Judge! He's also a very lucky Man! You do know, I love him, by the way. Don't be a Stranger!"
"Oh, I will definitely be back, but said Judge may have a stroke over my many purchases of the Day! Here and at Rosemary's. Thanks again, Sophie! Love it all!"
"Don't worry! I'll give you the Invoice after you return! The Judge need never know…" she laughed.
It was Half-past Six and the Family had gathered at the Café for one last Meal together before The Avery's Wedding Day was officially here.
They dined on Prime Rib with Bill's special Horseradish Sauce, Aaron's favorite Scalloped Potatoes, Nathan's favorite Corn Pudding, Lee's favorite Broccoli Casserole, and Nathaniel's Favorite Fruit Salad. Bill topped the meal off with his own Famous Yeast Rolls, which had risen to new heights, and for Dessert, he made Adeline's favorite Fudge Pudding with Vanilla Cinnamon Ice Cream for the Children.
Unknown to the Family, Bill was actually using them to test, not all, but some of his Wedding Dinner Menu, especially the Prime Rib, as he wanted to make sure every single item was perfect.
And according to their reactions, they were perfect.
"Bill, this is the most delicious Prime Rib I've ever had!" exclaimed Lee.
"Good, 'cause you're getting it again tomorrow night! Also, Aaron's Scalloped Potatoes and Nathan's Corn Pudding. And couldn't leave out your Broccoli Casserole, Lee! Or Nathaniel's favorite Fruit Salad!"
"We're all in for all that!" enthused practically everyone at the Table.
"The meal's perfect," added Nathaniel.
"Our compliments to the Chef!" complimented Nathan, which always made Bill beam!
"Oh, never fear, there's lots more tomorrow. But since I'm not allowed to cook it, I thought I'd do a mini-trial run-through tonight," and he glared at his Bride, who had laid down the law, in favor of Gustav as Chef, so her Groom could give her his full attention and enjoy his own Wedding.
"William Spencer Avery, this is your Wedding too, and I'm not having you in the Kitchen cooking the whole time! Oh, and I did what you said and bought Rosemary's Dress Shoppe out! And pretty much Sophie's Milliner's Shoppe too!"
"Darlin' that's fine. I want you to have the perfect Honeymoon and whatever it is you call those clothes."
"A Trousseau, Darling!" reminded Adeline. "And you've given your Bride a beautiful one!"
"Bill, she really did buy me out!" concurred Rosemary. "You might want to let me just take the Invoice out of your Bank Account, so you won't have to see it!"
"That bad, huh?"
"'Fraid so!" confirmed Rosemary. "But, don't worry, I'll give the Family Discount!"
"Sweetheart, you do know Tonight is the last time we can see each other, right?" asked Adeline.
"What are you talkin' about? Our Wedding's not till Half-Past Six Tomorrow Night!"
"Well thank goodness you remembered that!" retorted a shocked Adeline.
"Bill, you know the Groom can't see the Bride on her Wedding Day!" explained Nathan.
"Who said that? That's plum crazy!"
"Plum crazy or not my Darling, it's Tradition and we're abiding by it! Tonight, we say Goodnight and don't see each other till I walk down the Aisle!"
"Well, that's the craziest thing I ever heard!"
"Bill, you can't fight Tradition! Don't even try," advised Nathaniel.
"What if I need you?" he asked Adeline.
"Aww!" sighed Elizabeth. "That's so sweet!"
"No, seriously, what if I need you. What if there's a question about the Wedding?"
"You can send them to me, Bill!" suggested Nathan, although another question from Bill about his own Wedding was the last thing this much-used and very weary Best Man needed.
"But, I'll be lonely!"
"That, my Sweetheart, may just be the sweetest thing you've ever said to me!" and Adeline gave Bill a kiss on his cheek.
"Besides, Bill, we'll be there for you, if you need someone!" offered Aaron.
"Well, I'm sorry, Aaron, it's hardly the same!" growled Bill, sarcastically.
And everyone burst out laughing. Bill was taking this bit of news, something he should have already known, pretty hard!
Adeline just shook her head and rolled her eyes!
"Besides, Sweetie, the time will pass fast!" soothed Adeline, patting her Groom's hand, like the Child he sometimes was.
And pass fast, the hours did, with a lot more Snow!
But it only made Hope Valley look more magical for the Big Event, and Rosemary was thankful she had held back a Fur-trimmed Cape for the Bride because she was going to need it.
The Sleigh was beautiful, brilliantly bedecked with Rose Garlands and Silver Ribbons.
Even the Horses were Groomed and Dressed in their Finery, too, ready for use!
All perfect for a Winter Valentine's Wedding!
Rosemary had delivered all the Bridesmaids' Gowns and Capes, as well as the Bride's Gown and Cape to Adeline's, and the Ladies were all going to get dressed together there.
Mrs. Blake insisted on helping them.
Lee had even set up little Tables with Mirrors and tiny Chairs in Adeline's Living Room so that each Lady had her own Makeup and Hair Station.
Nathaniel and Commissioner Blake had been given the difficult task of tending to the nervous Groom, making sure they kept him away from the Bride, as Bill's Best Man still had much to do!
Nathan even ended up having to go do Bill's packing, as of course, he had done none of it, himself, at all!
The Best Man did his best to complete this unexpected new Task of Packing for the Groom, fairly quickly, in addition to another already planned Task, again for the Groom, that involved the Train Depot.
Afterward, Nathan made a beeline Home, where he caught up with Elizabeth on the way, who had made a trip into Town after School.
"Now, this is a most pleasant surprise! Want to grab a Hot Chocolate?" asked Nathan as he hugged and kissed her.
"I would love a Hot Chocolate! It's so Cold!"
Inside the Café, the two took the Corner Table by the front Window, in case Nathan needed to make a quick exit.
"This is so nice, just you and me!"
"Hi, you two! May I help you?" asked Clara with a broad smile, so happy to see them.
"Hi, Clara! Two Hot Chocolates, please! With lots of Marshmallow!" ordered Nathan.
"Coming right up," laughed Clara.
"How was your Day, Darling?"
"Well, I just finished the Groom's packing! And picked up the Train Tickets."
"Nathan, you what?"
"He hadn't packed a single thing, Elizabeth. And frankly, he's too nervous to do so!"
"Oh no, not Bill!"
"Yes, Bill. I've put the Commissioner and Nathaniel on Guard Duty to make sure he stays away from Adeline. He's like a sad little Puppy Dog without her!"
Elizabeth laughed, "Well, I'd say those two are perfect for the job, but Darling, what else do you have to do?"
"Tell me how your Day was first!"
"The Children made Wedding Valentines for the Happy Couple! So, all was good! Everyone's excited!"
He reached to kiss her, "You're so thoughtful and you make the Children thoughtful. That's an Art, you know, my most Talented Fiancee!"
"You're too kind. It's sort of my Job, Love!"
Clara was carrying two steaming Cups of Hot Chocolate smothered in heaps of Marshmallow but was unnoticed by the Couple, so she gently cleared her throat.
"Sorry, thank you, Clara!"
But instead of picking up his own Hot Chocolate, he lifted Elizabeth's steaming Cup, stirring it first to cool it, then smiled, "Happy Valentine's Day, Darling, our first!"
She bypassed the Chocolate reaching instead for his lips.
"I love you, Nathan Grant."
"I love you, Elizabeth Thornton."
Then she playfully stuck her finger in his Marshmallow and covered his nose, being careful not to get any on his Uniform.
"Hey, that's not fair! You can't do that when I'm in Uniform. I may just have to Arrest you!"
But she sheepishly looked around the Café and made sure Clara was back in the Kitchen. Then she glanced outside, and as the coast was clear, she reached to kiss it off his nose…
"The Evidence has been eaten, Chief Inspector. You have no Grounds!"
"Maybe not this time. Oh, that makes a little Marshmallow Crème so very worth it! But you wait till I get you in a private spot. You'll pay, Love! Dearly!"
She giggled like a schoolgirl!
"You know, I'm like a little sad Puppy Dog when you're not with me, too?" asked Nathan, with the perfect and sweetest Puppy Dog look on his now clean face.
"You are?" asked a surprised Elizabeth.
"Always. Just so happy to see you, Lisbeth!"
He then reached into his Serge and brought out a second Valentine's Card!
"Nathan Grant, you're spoiling me. You've already given me a Valentine's Card this Morning with my beautiful Roses!"
"You deserve spoiling! In fact, since we are now engaged, it's my new official Job!"
"Darling, you wrote this. It's…so very beautiful. Just lovely, I will cherish it! Did you draw the Flowers too?"
"I did! My Mother always said Handmade Cards were the best!"
"Just another reason to love your Mother!"
"Here, drink your Chocolate, Love, before it gets too cool! We've got to go back out in that Snow, you know!"
"How do you always know the perfect thing to say, to write? I've never felt so loved."
"Good, then I'm doing my Job! I'm sorry, Darling, that we can't spend the entire Evening alone together. But I do have plans for after we get the Bride and Groom delivered to the Train Station. And if you're free, I have plans for Tomorrow, too! Let's just call it your Valentine's Weekend!"
"Oh, I love the sound of that! I'm all yours!"
"Up for some Riding through the Snow? Although, we may end up having to take the Sleigh."
"Either way, I'm game!"
They finished their Hot Chocolate, then bundled back up to brave the Cold!
The Snow was coming down heavier now, and Nathan did his best to shield Elizabeth as much as he could, but with the blowing Winds added in, it was both chilling and difficult!
"Here, let's get Newton!"
They made their way to the Mountie Station, and Nathan brushed off his Saddle and Newton's blanket, then mounted Newton, and helped Elizabeth up to sit behind him, so he could better shield her from the Wind and Snow.
She nestled in against him.
"You take such good care of me," she whispered.
He held her clasped hands around his waist and took off for her House.
"Get used to it, Love. I plan to take the most excellent care of you the rest of our lives!"
They rode through Town, then Elizabeth tapped on his shoulder.
"Nathan, can we stop by your House first?"
"Of course, but Allie's at Opal's."
"That's okay. Actually, that's good."
When they made it into his Living Room, he had to stop to put some Wood on the Fire, and he had her stand in front of it to warm up.
"What's wrong, Darling?"
"I'm sorry."
"Whatever for?"
"For insisting on a June Wedding."
"Lisbeth, we agreed. That's okay. It will be here before you know it."
"But we could have already been together, and I wish we had just gone on and gotten Married."
Nathan sighed, "Darling, I wish that too, especially when I have to say Goodnight to you. It's becoming more and more excruciating! But we agreed and I know we haven't been able to see each other as much since we got back from Regina, what with the new job and all, but we're getting a lot done. It's all okay," and he took her in his arms.
"But there was a part of me that was scared. And I'm not scared anymore," she sobbed.
"Darling, don't you think I knew that? That's why I didn't push for an earlier Date. I wanted to give you all the time you needed."
"But, it's hurt you!"
"Lisbeth, look at me," and he tilted her chin up toward him.
"I'm not going anywhere. I love you with all my heart, and that grows deeper and deeper every single day. That's not going to change. We're going to have a Lifetime to be together and love each other completely. Don't ever be sorry for a decision that was the best to have made at the time. You've been through so much, my Darling. I want you to heal as completely as a person can heal. I want you to be more than ready for us to Marry. And so deliriously happy on our Wedding Day! I know I'm going to be. You know, what they say, all perfect things come to those who wait, and it doesn't get more perfect than you, Love. And I get the feeling we're going to be perfect together! Lisbeth, it's going to be wonderful!"
She tried her best to stop crying, but all she could do was sob out her words.
"I don't think another Man would have been so…so very patient with me," she sniffed, as he wiped her eyes. "For that, Nathan, I am so grateful…I love you more than I ever thought possible."
He held her and just caressed her hair, her back, hoping she would calm down again, kissing the top of her head every little bit.
"Do you really mean it, Nathan? You truly understand?"
"I truly understand, and I need to say something. Lisbeth, I'm secure in our love, in my love for you, and in your love for me. Your memories of Jack will never disappear, nor should they. Don't feel torn, my Darling. There's nothing to feel torn about! I know you'll always love him, too, as you should, and that's okay. That's the way it should be. I understand that, and I respect that. I'm just grateful for now and the future we are going to have together, Love! It's going to be so very wonderful!"
"I don't deserve you, Nathan."
"I beg to differ. I finally understand that we do deserve each other, because, by some miraculous wonder, God has brought us together! Lisbeth, I couldn't make it without you, or at least I wouldn't want to. I adore you, Darling, all of you, even the part that loves Jack! I can't promise we won't have difficult times, but I can promise I'll be there beside you and that we'll get through them together."
"I promise you the same a hundred times over!"
"No more tears?"
"No more tears!"
"What do you say I get you Home? We've got a Wedding to go to in just over a Half-Hour, or at least the getting ready part! Plus, you've got to help Laura get the Children ready."
She reached to kiss him.
"I adore, you Nathan Alexander Grant!"
"And I adore you, Elizabeth Rose Thatcher Thornton! I desperately do…"
He smiled with those sparkly eyes of his, and she knew he was truly alright.
Which made her truly alright.
He helped bundle her back up in her Coat, Scarf, and Gloves that he had warmed by the Fire, grabbed her his old Cowboy hat to cover her head and protect her face, and then he shielded her once again as he led her back to Newton. He mounted first, then lifted her up behind him once again.
"You look pretty adorable in that Hat. Gonna have to get you one!" grinned Nathan. "You ready, Darling?"
"Yes, I'm ready," and she nestled into him again for the short ride to her house. "You really are quite the Flirt, aren't you?"
"I try!"
She laughed, riding on Newton, with the Snow falling down, on this cold Valentine's Day.
But most importantly she was holding on to the Man she adored.
Life was wonderful with this Man. She had never felt so relieved and so happy!
He had understood her need to wait before she had even known the need was there.
When they got to her Home, Nathan dismounted and lifted her down. But not before kissing her to let her know everything was more than okay.
"I meant every single word I said, Lisbeth. No more apologies. After this Wedding, we start in earnest preparing for the Grant Wedding! Our Wedding. And it's going to be perfect because it's ours!"
"I love you, Nathan."
And he lifted her to carry her up her Porch Steps, to her Door.
"I love you, too, Darling! See you at the Wedding?"
"See you at the Wedding!"
They kissed in broad daylight not caring who passed by.
"Sorry, I can't help you with the Children."
"You have the biggest Child of all, the Groom! Laura and I'll do fine here with Allie and Jack!"
He flashed her his lop-sided grin and turned to leave.
"You know, I honestly can't argue with that!" he laughed.
And she smiled because he had understood her so completely, plus he had totally relieved her troubled mind, making everything okay inside of her, and she was so very thankful.
Now she was ready for the Avery Wedding…
"Bill, hold still, while I fix your Uniform! The Commissioner is here, it's got to be perfect!"
"Nathan, why am I so nervous?"
"Bill, you love Adeline, and there's nothing to be nervous about. Just block out everyone else and look at her. Elizabeth says she looks stunning!"
"I missed her so much today. This crazy rule!"
"This crazy rule is a time-honored Tradition, and you've survived it! We have less than an hour to go! Now, turn," instructed Nathan, and he began to smooth the back of Bill's Inspector's Uniform.
"Okay, turn around for one final Inspection," instructed Nathan.
"Bill, you've got the wrong Socks on. Those are not government issued! Where are the right ones?"
"Top Drawer. I'm still nervous," grumbled Bill.
"Bill, how many times have you faced a barrel of a loaded gun?"
"More times than I can count. Why?"
"Because that's nerves. Nerves of Steel. Comparatively, this is not Nerves. This may be a little Anxiety over the unknown. But it's you and Adeline, we're talking about, here. Think how wonderful it's going to be when you reach Le Havre tonight, just the two of you alone! You're finally getting to start your Life together!"
"Sorry, Nathan. I know you want the same with Elizabeth."
"And you'll be here calming me down when that time comes," laughed Nathan. "You know, you're right, Bill, I'm ready and I finally think Elizabeth is really ready. She's had to work through a lot."
"I know she has. And I respect you so much for being so patient with her. That takes a special Man, Nathan."
"I love her completely, Bill. What can I say?"
"You know, I've loved before, too. But not like this. What if I mess it all up?"
"If you just listen to Adeline, you won't do that."
"Will you remind me?"
"Every single day, Bill. You know something I'm really looking forward to?"
"What's that?"
"All of us old married Couples relaxing at the Lodge!"
"Now, you're talkin'! Does Elizabeth know?"
"Not a thing!"
"Oh, shoot! I forgot the Train Tickets for the Honeymoon!"
Nathan just calmly pulled two Round-Trip First-Class Tickets from his Serge, "Here you go, from Elizabeth and me!"
"Wow! Thank you, Nathan! Do I ever owe you! Adeline would have killed me! Harold, Nathaniel, and I just got side-tracked. You're the best Best Man ever! This Outfit itches like crazy! Boy, I'm so ready to get this over with!"
"Bill, you and your complaints! At least, thanks to Taleisha, it's wearable without causing half the Church to faint dead away. You might want to give it one final spray of this just to be sure, though!" coughed Nathan.
"Are you nervous Adeline?"
"Not about the Wedding. I am a little worried if Bill remembered to get the Train Tickets, though."
"Well, worry no more! Nathan and I got them for you! Two Round-Trip First-Class Tickets. Our treat!"
"Oh, Elizabeth, I would argue that's too much, but to tell you the truth, I'm just so thankful that we have them. Thank you so much! I knew Bill would forget to pick them up!"
"But you love him anyway!"
"Yes, I do. I really do, Elizabeth. Am I crazy? You know Life is a funny thing. When you least expect it, everything just sort of falls into place, in ways you couldn't have ever imagined. And in much, much better ways. That's Bill and me."
"I know what you mean. Sometimes I can't believe my Life now with Nathan in it. I love him so very much, Adeline. Is it awful to say, more than I ever thought I could love someone?"
Adeline took both of Elizabeth's hands in hers.
"Elizabeth, you listen to me. It is not awful to say that at all. In fact, if you couldn't say that, I'd be worried. We grow, my Darling, and our hearts learn to love through that growth. You are coming to Nathan with Life Joys and Life Hurts. Of course, you know how to love him more."
"It's just taken me so long to be ready for Marriage again, Adeline. And now, I truly am. But why has it taken me so long? It's not him. It's been inside me."
"Because of Jack, Sweetheart. It's hard to let go. But the thing is you don't have to. I get the feeling Nathan completely understands and accepts that part of you. And always will."
"He does. In a way I thought no Man could. He even reassured me of that very thing Today."
"Because he's an extraordinary Man, Elizabeth. He's a Keeper!"
"I'm so blessed! And so are you. You're the Bride. I'm supposed to be supporting you, not the other way around."
"You always support me. We support each other. That's the way it's supposed to be. Do you think my hair looks okay?"
"You look as beautiful as a Bride can look, Adeline! You truly do look regal. Okay, we have something old, something new, and something blue! Here's your something borrowed."
"Elizabeth…"
"They're my Great-Grandmother's Diamond Earrings, passed down to me. When I saw the Necklace Bill gave you, I knew these would go perfectly."
"They are perfect! Thank you! They look like they were made to match my Necklace. Absolutely perfect!"
"Come, we'd better go out and check on the others? Is the Bride Ready?"
Adeline took a deep breath.
"This Bride is so very Ready! I'm Ready for Love, I'm Ready for Bill, I'm Ready to Marry Him, and I'm Ready to Party! What do you say? Let's go have a Wedding!"