Chapter One Hundred Nineteen: Together Apart
Dinner at the Grant home, on this particular Sunday night, was to be a rather formal affair for the Ladies and Children, using the Dining Room instead of the usual Kitchen.
Godfrey had insisted on it primarily to distract and cheer his Miss Elizabeth up who was missing her fiancée something horribly.
In fact, so much so, the Children were following her suit and missing their Dad more and more with each passing moment.
Every other word the three of them spoke was Nathan or Dad or Daddy.
"When will Daddy be home, Mama?" asked Little Jack.
"I'm afraid not till tomorrow, Son."
"But, why? I want him tonight!" insisted Jack.
"Jack, Dad is with our Grandpas fishing. I know, maybe he'll bring us a fish!" suggested Allie excitedly, which was just the right amount of distraction the little boy needed!
Elizabeth shot Allie a grateful and understanding look, knowing Allie too was missing her Dad. So much so because he wasn't living with them till after the Wedding, and unlike Elizabeth and Jack, Allie was used to having her Dad with her every single day.
So, tonight, Godfrey had insisted on formal dress for both the Adults and the Children as a distraction, and he and the Grandmothers' were going to use this opportunity to let the Children practice their formal Table Manners!
Arabella, Viola's daughter was also present, dressed in her finest, which was quite fine I might add, as she was spending the night with her new cousins. And the young Arabella was quite excited to be eating with the grown-ups, as that was a first for her!
"I do believe you three are the most beautiful Children in the World," complimented Grace.
"Thank you, Granda," smiled Allie and Arabella, in unison.
Allie then nudged Jack, who very quickly piped up "Tank you, Ganda!"
"You all are very welcome," she beamed back.
As Godfrey helped seat them, even Elizabeth was amazed at the gorgeous table.
"Your lavender Orchids and Roses are still just as lovely as when Mr. Nathan gave them to you, Miss."
They were sitting in Nathan's Waterford Crystal vase, between two very tall white tapered candles in cut crystal holders.
"My Son sure knows how to choose flowers if I do say so myself. They're exquisite, Sweetheart!" added Madelyne.
"Yes, they are!" and Elizabeth's solemn face broadened into the brightest of smiles!
"The Dinner looks delicious, too!"
And so, their mood brightened as they were all seated by Godfrey, to eat a meal that came straight from Hamilton with all the elegance that entailed…
The men were riding over the majestic Countryside under a glorious, burning sunset!
It was impossible to not be in awe of the scenic views that surrounded them at every turn.
"Anyone hungry? We could go on for miles and miles!" shouted Nathan.
"I say we're ravenously hungry," yelled Bill. "I'm ready to taste all that fish we caught today!"
So as darkness began to fall, they headed back to the Lodge, their home for the night, at breakneck speed.
A very fast gallop indeed!
After everyone tended their horses, they turned and headed for the Lodge.
"I will build huge fire outside. Must fry fish over open fire," he insisted.
"It is more authentic that way," agreed Nathan.
"Better taste," George assured them.
Bill went inside, recruiting Aaron and Nathaniel as his Sous Chefs and the three together whipped up some Corn on the Cob, Baked Beans with Molasses, and Bill's Crunchy Cole Slaw, along with some Brownies and Sweet Cornbread.
Nathan and Archie were hard at work deboning, fileting, and coating all the fish they thought could be eaten with their special secret coating.
While the others worked, William and Anthony, who had no kitchen experience whatsoever, spent the time relaxing by the fireplace with a glass of Scotch, deep in discussion over high finance.
The hard part for Nathan and Archie was keeping Bill from stealing their secrets, but he did spy a bottle of hot sauce sitting on the counter, which actually had been left there on purpose!
Nathaniel made some coffee, just in case, and saw that there was plenty of Beer chilled.
There were also tons of Marshmallows ready for roasting after the hearty meal, and Aaron gathered long sticks, whittling their ends into sharp points.
The men were about to experience a Fish Fry/Feast Extraordinaire, and it was going to be worth every second of their wait.
"Best Meal, best Fried Fish, I've ever had!" declared William.
"Can't beat fresh off the hook," added Bill. "Still can't figure out what makes this breading so special. I saw the hot sauce! But that's not what I'm missing. It's something else. Hmph! Maybe a few something else's."
While Bill's failure to determine the secret ingredients confounded him, it sure wasn't for lack of trying; he dissected each and every single piece of his own fish's coating prior to eating it!
Archie and Nathan shared a secret wink.
"Sorry, Bill. It's an old Family secret. Stays close to the chest!" explained a very serious Archie. "Our Irish ancestors decreed it! Why Nathan is forbidden to share the secrets!"
"Yeah, well we'll see about that!" Bill snarked back.
The men laughed. It seemed cantankerous old Bill was always good for a laugh, even when he wasn't joking, but they loved him still!
"George, you're right. I've had Nathan's Fried Fish before, and it's always been great, but it tastes even better out here. Wonder why?" asked Aaron.
"One with Nature," answered George, succinctly and pointedly. "Feel. Listen."
The men did as they were instructed, and all at once, they became acutely aware of their total environment.
They began to feel the breeze rising up from Lake Granda, just a few steps away, dancing through the cool night air from the water's surface to cool them.
Night sounds of the Wilderness came alive and encroached upon them, as they simply listened.
They then became acutely aware of the crackling from their campfire: the snaps, crackles, and pops as the wood logs split across their crevices, and released steam back into the sputtering fire.
"Shh! Did you hear that?" asked Anthony? "Owls hooting around us!"
"Listen to the whirring of the Katydids, clicking rhythmically forming a buzzing song of sorts," suggested William. "Haven't been outside long enough for ages to hear that sound! Loved to listen to them as a child."
"Why there must be a hundred lake frogs out tonight. Be still and you can hear them croak and bellow together in a chorus of rich bases," noted Nathaniel.
"The chirping of the crickets is so massive, those tiny things are holding their own with everything else. There must be millions of them," surmised Archie. "Just like an orchestra. And isn't it amazing they can make so much noise?"
"Sit very still. We've listened near. Let's listen far…"
The men sat very still until George Flying Eagle, the Nature expert spoke again.
"Do you hear the distant barking? The whimpering cries? The growling, even howling so very far in the distance? Scattered packs of wolves. The Gray Wolf and the rarer Red Wolf. They're all here; sights to behold. Powerful and aggressive, they attack bears, moose. They threaten humans, but not their inherent nature to hurt them. Do not fear them. Respect them. They will respect you."
Then George reiterated his most important statement.
"Man respect Nature. Nature respect Man. All is well. It is God's Plan, His Law."
All the things that surround you but aren't actually there till you truly listen.
And just like that Nature, all the things that go bump in the night were now seen and even heard in a brand-new way.
This was nature at its best and after much hearty conversation during their meal, it was a pleasure to take George's advice and just sit silently, listening to all that was around them, soaking in the magic of it all.
It was meditation at its finest, man drawn back to Fire and Nature as it was since the beginning of time.
The night was so beautiful, that after their lengthy silence, Nathan grabbed his guitar and started strumming a tune. One that most recognized. He first started humming, then singing the first verse, and the men all joined in on the chorus, and then each of the men in their strong voices took a verse.
All except Anthony who was not at all familiar with this North American song, but he quickly learned the chorus and sung along in a rich tenor.
Bill took the second verse, Aaron the third, Archie the fourth, William the fifth, and George the sixth.
1: Oh give me a home where the buffalo roam,
Where the deer and the antelope play,
Where seldom is heard a discouraging word,
And the skies are not cloudy all day.
Chorus: Home, home on the range,
Where the deer and the antelope play,
Where seldom is heard a discouraging word,
And the skies are not cloudy all day.
2: Where the air is so pure, and the zephyrs so free,
The breezes so balmy and light,
That I would not exchange my home on the range,
For all of the cities so bright.
3: How often at night when the heavens are bright,
With the light from the glittering stars,
Have I stood there amazed and asked as I gazed,
If their glory exceeds that of ours.
4: Oh, I love these wild flowers in this dear land of ours,
The curlew I love to hear cry,
And I love the white rocks and the antelope flocks,
That graze on the mountain slopes high.
5: Oh give me a land where the bright diamond sand,
Flows leisurely down in the stream;
Where the graceful white swan goes gliding along,
Like a maid in a heavenly dream.
6: Then I would not exchange my home on the range,
Where the deer and the antelope play;
Where seldom is heard a discouraging word,
And the skies are not cloudy all day. (*62)
The men all had strong, even melodious voices, but they were enhanced even more by their harmony together.
For the moments the Men sang, the sounds around them ceased, and allowed their own voices to reverberate and ring out into the night, bonding them together in a way only song can do.
Next, they sang a traditional Irish Lullaby, specifically chosen so Anthony could fully join in, as this was one he had known since childhood.
Over in Killarney
Many years ago,
Me Mither sang a song to me
In tones so sweet and low.
Just a simple little ditty,
In her good ould Irish way,
And l'd give the world if she could sing
That song to me this day.
"Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral, Too-ra-loo-ra-li,
Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral, hush now, don't you cry!
Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral, Too-ra-loo-ra-li,
Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral, that's an Irish lullaby."
Oft in dreams I wander
To that cot again,
I feel her arms a-huggin' me
As when she held me then.
And I hear her voice a -hummin'
To me as in days of yore,
When she used to rock me fast asleep
Outside the cabin door. (*63)
After that, Nathan took requests and they all sang along, song after song, singing the night away.
Their sing-a-long finally came to a close with George's request, a long one and a favorite of everyone present. And so, they began…
Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood, His mercy rains
Unending love, Amazing grace
The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures
My chains are gone
I've been set free (been set free)
My God, my Savior has ransomed me (ransomed me)
And like a flood (like a flood) His mercy rains (mercy rains)
Unending love, oh, Amazing grace
The Earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God, Who called me here below
Will be forever mine
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood, His mercy rains
Unending love, Amazing grace (grace)
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind (was blind), but now (but now) I see (*64)
It was a moment of reality they'd never forget. One of awe and reverence that would stay with these men even when they went their separate ways.
Nathan said his goodnights to the men as they reluctantly turned to go back inside the Lodge.
"You all get some sleep. I'll be in in a bit. Don't wait up."
"Goodnight, Son," his Father lovingly patted him on his back.
"Son, you've given us a wonderful day, an unforgettable day! When you do come in, rest well," offered William.
"Nathan, are you okay?" asked Nathaniel.
"Yes," he smiled wanly. "Just need to do some thinking."
"Understood," and Nathaniel more than anyone did understand.
"Need a partner?" asked Bill.
"Thanks, Bill, but not tonight. Rest up for some early morning fishing!"
Aaron nodded to Nathan, understanding his need for solitude without saying a word, and reached for Nathan's guitar, taking it inside with him.
George waited patiently till everyone else had gone inside.
He stood silently beside his landlord for a moment, then spoke in a low voice.
"Chief Inspector, this place is special. It reaches inside you. It grows there and changes you."
"George let's drop the Chief Inspector," Nathan smiled. "It's Nathan."
George nodded and reached out his hand.
"The Rite of Passage weighs heavy on Man, but is necessary. I leave you to your Land, Nathan. Listen to it. It will speak to you."
And with that, George entered his Cabin with Rip at his heels, knowing he was leaving Nathan to his own Rite of Passage.
Back at the Grant Home in Hope Valley, the three Children had shown their very best manners. Arabella had been a bit reluctant to take part, but Allie had interceded and made sure she was included.
The Grandmothers and even Godfrey were impressed.
After Dessert, they all retired to the Living Room, where Granda and Grandma took turns reading to the Children in front of the fireplace.
Not to be left out, Rex and Reggie were also curled up by the fire.
But before the reading commenced, Allie had an idea.
"Grandma, I think Jack and I should call you Grandmom because you are a Grand Mother or Grand Mom, not a ma. Dad doesn't call you Ma. He calls you Mother or Mom or sometimes even Mum."
"Well, I had never thought of it that way, Allie. But you're absolutely right. I'm very happy with whatever you and Jack decide to call me!" assured Madelyne.
The two conferred and decided on a third previously unmentioned option, "Grandmum!"
So, Grandmum, it was, but mostly because Jack said it that way!
The warm fire took just the right amount of chill off the night air, and it was hard to tell who was enjoying themselves more, the Children or the Grandmothers.
Elizabeth sat watching, so thankful they were able to spend time together, bonding together, enjoying each others' company.
The Children didn't realize it now, but they were making lifetime memories.
But she was still missing Nathan.
'Perhaps it's just knowing I can't go get him or he can't just ride up. Or maybe it's just that it's so close to our Wedding. But, boy, do I miss him!'
Then an idea came to her, as she smiled, and quietly slipped away into their Library, behind their huge partner desk, where she quietly took out a sheet of paper, along with her gold pen, the one Nathan had given her.
"My Darling Nathan,
Finally, a spot where I can feel you, and I CAN feel you.
I happened to wonder, besides with the Children, where in this huge house, could I feel closest to you?
Then I remembered your books, and I knew this was the spot.
Our spot alone. One we have really not yet shared except to arrange the furniture and unpack our many books. But a spot that holds our writing souls. I cannot wait for the times we will spend together in this room.
Although I'm not quite sure, if the two of us together will ever be able to focus on any work, as of right now, I can only think of kissing, holding you.
To say I miss you is a huge understatement. And even though I know you are hosting this fishing trip indirectly for me, because it was my Father's wish, I still miss you in a way I never thought possible.
It hasn't been anywhere close to twenty-four hours, but oh how I long to feel your touch, to see your sparkling eyes, laugh at your crooked smile, hear your voice and feel your gentle lips on mine.
I feel that tomorrow, I may not be able to control myself. So, be forewarned, you shall be kissed like no other kiss wherever you are whenever I first lay eyes on you. I don't care who is standing there. And you should also know, I'm going to be very selfish and spirit you away from our guests, so that only you and I are each other's world, at least for the afternoon. So be prepared to be ravaged.
My dearest Love, I sound as though I'm complaining, but I am not.
This beautiful home you built for me is more than I could ever want, and I know you are in every bit of it. But you must know, it is empty without you in it. I know it, the Children know it. We long for you.
Your name in some fashion or another comes up approximately every three minutes, and we all are longing for your return.
Your beloved Fiancee most of all.
You say I'm yours, but you are my North Star as well, and I kiss the one at my neck in lieu of kissing you this particular moment. Enjoy your time under the stars, my Love, and be sure to dream of me.
Nathan, I must tell you, with marvel, there are no nerves, just raw excitement at the thought of our marriage, our wedding night, our honeymoon, and all the days to come.
Together.
My heart is already yours my Dearest One, and I long to show you in a million ways to confirm it so there is no doubt.
I need you always and love you always.
Entirely and ever after yours,
E
The letter was for her as much as Nathan, for there was no way of sending it to him except by telepathy, but now, she would at least be able to sleep and dream of her Husband-to-be!
Alone and with the campfire now nothing but dying embers, Nathan allowed his eyes to re-adjust to the darkness.
As he looked up at the stars above him, he felt Elizabeth's presence as though she were there with him.
Through a gift of magnanimous generosity, this truly was now his land, his lake; their land, their lake.
He realized that had never truly sunk in before, not even when he spent grueling hours on the land clearing it and building the Lodge.
He had always thought of it as belonging to Nathaniel, even though he knew cognitively his name was now on the deed. Along with Elizabeth's. He had insisted on that.
He walked toward Lake Granda into the black night, wanting to hear the soft sounds of the water, more clearly.
Without realizing it, he gravitated to the very spot he and Elizabeth on this coming Saturday, promptly at half past 6 PM, would stand to be married.
And somehow, with that thought, he could feel God blessing this beautiful space He had created, consecrating it, making it whole and a part of him.
This was to be a sacred spot.
Where he would commit his life to the Woman he loved and the children they Cherished.
How could one Man be so blessed?
He looked to the skies, and in his first glance, there shown the North Star, brighter than all others, just like his Elizabeth.
And he realized just as surely as Elizabeth was his North Star, this land was part of their North Star together.
Tonight, it truly hit him, he was now the owner, and therefore the custodian and caretaker for its care.
He alone was now responsible for this great gift from both Nathaniel and God.
And how he handled this would determine this land's fate for generations to come.
This was the land his family would come to for rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
The many things he would teach the children just by having the experience of being here.
The lessons and joys this land and lake would bring to him, Elizabeth, and those they loved.
This would be their haven, their time to relax, be together, and grow close as a family.
They would relish this gift and make every moment they spent here count for the land, for each other, and for their Family, however large it grew, as well as their Friends. And perhaps also for George, if Elizabeth agreed.
"Humble me, Dear Lord. Give me the wisdom my Wife and Children will need. Help me to be the best Husband, the best Father I can possibly be. The best Son. Help me to be a true Friend to those who love and support me. Give me the wisdom too, for the custodial care of this land, your beautiful handiwork, and bring forth the soil in a way that is pleasing to You. Make me Your Servant."
It was with that simple prayer prayed so earnestly that gave Nathan peace with Nathaniel's magnificent gift of land and water, that he now assumed responsibility for, as well as his new role of leading the Family that was about to become his officially and in every way.
Nathan turned and slowly walked back to the building he himself had built, truly humbled, deeply grateful for his many blessings, and feeling so much lighter.
For he had given everything to God.
The Rite of Passage, as George called it, had taken place, fully and completely.
He was now ready to live his best Life with his Family, on this land, as it was meant to be.
Nathan returned to the Lodge, but not wanting to sleep in the bed that would be his and Elizabeth's without her, Nathan stretched out on the long sofa in the main room, just in front of the fireplace, sleeping only a few hours, but thankfully, both deeply and soundly.
He was awake and dressed by the time William entered the main living area.
The two men grabbed a quick cup of coffee, reached for their fishing equipment, and headed straight to the dock.
"The others will follow as they waken," assured Nathan.
On opening the front door to the rising sun, George was standing guard, ready for their morning excursion.
"Good Sunrise," welcomed George.
"Good Sunrise," both smiled back, with a slight bow.
"William, it's important to first study the water movement to help determine your best vantage point," explained Nathan.
"The position of the Sun must be considered as well," offered George.
Based on their guidelines, the men found their perfect spot, and cast their lines, not saying another word.
Just taking in the beauty of the magnificent sunrise bursting from the skies without warning…a stunning combination of cool blues and violets surrounded by all the hot colors of sunny yellows, florid oranges, and penetrating reds, bombarding and splaying across the sky.
It was impossible to not stand in awe of the sunrise's coppery hues sparkling over the glistening water, creating a dance as beautiful as any ever choreographed.
"This is worth more than all the money in the world!" exclaimed William.
"William, your line. Hold it steady! Now let it out just a bit," whispered Nathan. "This one's going to be a fight to the finish."
William already had a bite, a big one.
George moved closer to assist him because he could see this one was huge.
As both men guided him with instructions, William did exactly as he was told, following each instruction to the t.
There was quite a bit of wrestling involved, and it took more strength than William thought he had.
But somehow, he did it, and when he was able to raise his line out of the water, with amazement he saw the head of his catch, and it was huge, really huge!
The perfect specimen he had longed to catch was here on the end of his line.
"Just hold steady, and slowly start to pull in! Keep it steady," advised Nathan. "Don't take your eye off of him! You've got this, William!"
"Elizabeth. Elizabeth! ELIZABETH!"
"Oh, sorry, Julie. I didn't see you there."
"And you obviously didn't hear me there! Sis! What is up? He's been gone less than twenty-four hours and you're in LaLa Land. This morning is Sister time and we need to make the most of it! Viola and I want to take you to lunch. Just the three of us!"
"Oh, I was going to fix a picnic basket to meet Nathan for…"
"Honestly, Sis, you have it so bad. Can't you at least…" began Julie.
"I'm sorry, of course, I can go to an early lunch, but only if you know I'm leaving to be with Nathan with my picnic basket in hand as soon as he arrives."
Julie shook her head, "Viola said you'd say that. We're good. Here, get ready. We need to hurry. You know how Viola gets when she has to wait, and…"
"We DON'T want that!" they both finished together, laughing.
"Let's hurry and get dressed," suggested Elizabeth, as she headed toward the big staircase.
"Lizzie, we're already dressed!"
"Not me, Jules. This is NOT what Nathan is going to see me in when he returns from his overnight!"
"Good grief! At least hurry. You know Viola's waiting, and I'm telling her it was all your fault!" yelled Julie up the stairs. "Every bit of it!"
"Tattletale!" called Elizabeth, back down the stairs.
"Come and get it!" yelled Bill as he rang the bell outside the porch. "Breakfast is ready!"
"Coming!" yelled Nathan. "You know, William, I'm worried about getting this thing home!"
"Leave to me," announced a very confident George.
"Not till you've had Breakfast with us!" insisted Nathan, and it was an order.
George felt warm inside to be included and nodded his gratitude.
He smiled, "We at least have to carry the fish to the Lodge. If not, will be gone when we return."
"William, you carry the rods and box. George and I will get the fish!"
It was big and slippery, but the two fishermen prevailed and when Bill saw what was going on, he ran to get a cover for the outside tub!
"Good grief, who caught this monster?" but when he looked up William was grinning ear to ear.
"That's a lifelong dream right there!" smiled William, who was bursting with pride.
"Well, you can check that sucker off your bucket list! Congratulations! Guys come see this!" he called back into the Lodge.
After their initial shock over the fish, Bill shoo'ed them all back in for a hot breakfast.
Needless to say, whether it was Bill's good cooking or Nature's call to hunger, these hungry men literally ate till there was nothing left!
It was promptly 12 Noon when the Fishing Party made its way back into Hope Valley. Nathan had insisted on bathing and changing his clothes before they left the Lodge, which caused much ribbing from the guys. They knew exactly why he was doing that!
To be honest, no one except Nathan had wanted to come home, but the men understood, he was anxious to be with his Bride, and so they honored their agreement to be back by lunch!
As soon as the horses' hooves were heard on Main Street, Elizabeth came running out the doors of the Café straight into the Street, yelling, "Nathan! Nathan!"
She met him before he could even dismount and he beamed at the sight of her.
"Darling!" she grabbed his leg that was still in Newton's stirrup, and Nathan could wait no more.
"Whoa, Buddy!" and in one fell swoop, he dismounted and wrapped her in his arms, lifting her, twirling her, trying his best to listen to the words she was whispering in his ear, not used to her emotion, as it was usually him to whisper the sweet nothings.
But this time, he couldn't get a word in edgewise.
The rest of the party just smiled and headed on to the Livery.
"Think I'd better take Newton, too. These two don't even know anyone or anything else exists!" grumbled Bill, but he was smiling ear-to-ear!
So, as Bill led Newton away, only George held back, silently, as he knew his only reason to be here was to meet this beautiful lady, and somehow, he prayed, garner her approval.
"I've missed you so, Elizabeth. I love you so!" there he finally got that in, but she was still more excited than he had ever seen her.
He held her tightly to him.
"Promise me the day is ours!" she begged. "Promise me!"
"I promise you the entire day and evening too!"
And then she noticed the Indian who was still on his horse but seemed to be waiting on Nathan.
He never moved an inch. He kept her solidly in his embrace. She only moved to his side nestled into him, to face the stranger before her.
"Darling, I'd like you to meet George Flying Eagle, an old friend of Bill's," smiled Nathan.
Elizabeth was amazed watching George dismount or I should say literally slide off his Palomino, Talulah which meant Leaping Water.
She reached out her hand. George first bowed his head, then stepped closer, took her hand, and looked directly into her eyes. So intently, it confounded her.
She looked to Nathan.
"Darling, George has been staying in our little Cabin, and I'm thankful he was there, as he helped us immensely. George, this is my beautiful fiancée, Elizabeth."
Telling her he had perhaps saved their lives too, well, now was not the time to get into that.
"Delighted, Mr. Flying Eagle," she smiled brilliantly. "A friend of my soon-to-be Husband's is a friend of mine. What may we do for you?"
"Ma'am it's George."
"Elizabeth, perhaps we should talk alone first, while George gets a cup of Coffee."
Smiling, Nathan directed George into the Café, sitting down with Elizabeth on a bench outside.
"Darling, I didn't know what to do without you there. The problem is this. George took us at our word, to use the small cabin in case of emergency. It is in better condition than when we left it. Immaculate, in fact. And the Lodge had not been touched. George loves the land and the lake, as we ourselves do. And it occurred to me he would make an excellent caretaker for the grounds, especially when we are not there."
"I'd never even thought of that. But Nathan our Honeymoon is there in just a few days, and we deserve to be alone," she pouted.
"Of course, we do and we will be. If you decide we should give George a chance as caretaker, I've already asked that he vacate the premises till after our Honeymoon is complete."
He smiled as he reached to kiss her somewhere close to her right ear. His warm breath melted her.
"In fact, till Honeymoon #1 is over and we are well on our way to Hamilton and New York for working Honeymoon #2, with the Children," he grinned. "Just you and me at Lake Granda, all alone."
She melted all over again at just the thought.
"What do you think, Nathan?"
"I think it's a Godsend, Elizabeth, but George would become Family by being there and you have to be 100% on board. His presence will impact the Children as well. However, this is something we can wait and decide on later. Don't feel rushed."
"Do you trust him?"
"With my life."
"Then I trust him too. And what life lessons he would provide for the Children!"
Then she grinned sheepishly.
"I like him, too. There is such wisdom in that man."
"There's something else you should know. I took it as a sign. George's big black lab is named Rip."
He watched for her expression, praying this wouldn't hurt her, and was so pleased that instead she was pleased.
She was so excited to get the words out, she stumbled over them.
"Oh, Darling, it is a sign. It is absolutely a sign. I knew I liked him! Rex, Reggie, and Rip! It's perfect!"
He kissed her and whispered, "Lisabeth, let's tell him now, I'm ready to spend private time with the woman of my dreams. And I can't wait a moment longer."
Her face lit up as though it were on fire with joy.
And she reached to kiss him once more.
"Let's do it!"
Nathan motioned through the Café window, and George was hoping against hope as he walked quickly to meet them.
He stood before them as both smiled, and then Nathan reached out his hand.
"Welcome to the Family, George!"
And Elizabeth reached up to kiss his cheek to make it official.
He cast his eyes downward and when he first raised his head, his thoughts were too full to speak, but his gratitude shown through.
"I will honor you and your land as though you were my own Family, my own land."
And the couple knew he meant every word, as he turned and headed back to the Lodge and his new home with joy on his face.
He was finally home.
Elizabeth held up a key.
"What's this?"
"I figured you'd be weary from riding. This, my Love, is the key to Lee's car which is waiting right over there, with everything we need."
"I have everything I need right here in my arms."
"But that 'everything in your arms' needs desperately to spend quality time with only you."
He grinned his lopsided grin and bent to kiss her quickly, grabbing her hand and laughingly pulling her toward Lee's car.
"I can't imagine what you have planned, but I'm excited. Shall I blindfold myself?"
"No Silly, that comes later," and with that, Nathan raised his eyebrows.
"I was kidding, Darling!" he clarified.
But Elizabeth continued on as though she hadn't even noticed his chagrin, "You're driving. I'll give directions! Oh, and you look devilishly handsome by the way in that blue-checked Shirt!"
He let her in, kissed her once more with a very devilish grin, and ran to the driver's side of the car.
'Well done,' he thought. 'I knew that was her favorite shirt!'
"Where to, Madame? I am completely at your disposal!"
She directed him till they reached the old Bridge just outside of town, and he was sure that was the point where they would be stopping, as it was such a scenic spot, but, surprisingly, it was not.
So, he continued on, suddenly realizing where she was taking him.
It was the old mine shaft.
He looked at her questioningly, but Elizabeth knew what she was doing.
"Drive past the main entrance and veer to the left."
He did as he was told.
"Now go straight."
"How long. How will I know?"
"Oh, you'll know," she promised.
Nathan had been to the mine many times and even around it, but he suddenly realized, not in this direction. And he couldn't help wonder why they were here, what was in store for them.
He smiled wanly at Elizabeth, who resolutely looked straight ahead.
By now, he was driving in a meadow. For there was no road. It had ended with the mine.
"Stop!" she called. "Park the car."
Now, he was more puzzled than ever.
He did as he was told, and walked briskly around to her side of the car, where he paused before letting her out.
"I have no idea why we're here, but I'm fine with that as long as I'm with you," and he bent to kiss her before taking her hand.
She embraced him, then spun him around from her.
"Now the blindfold."
And she did just that with a long blue scarf.
"Wait right here," and she reached in the boot of the car for the picnic hamper with a blanket on top.
"Reach your hand," and she placed one of the handles in his strong hand, with her still holding the other handle.
"This is heavy."
"Not too bad, with your help," she laughed. "Now walk straight ahead."
They walked together, but his sense of direction was blinded and he was totally at her mercy.
"This isn't fair," he complained. "I should at least have your hand."
"That's later, my Darling! Keep walking!" she said cheerily, knowing she was pushing him to the max, for Nathan was used to scouting being fully in control.
"I hear water," he said simply. "Lots of water."
"Yes, you do, Chief Inspector, very good! Now, we set down our load."
They did in tandem, and Elizabeth walked within an inch of him and whispered in his ear.
"This is our spot. The most beautiful spot I know. And now, it's yours and mine forever."
She kissed him passionately, while he was still blindfolded, and Nathan didn't care where he was, what it looked like, or anything else.
He was with her and at her mercy, and that was all that mattered.
She then led him a few more steps.
"Stand right here," she directed.
And she spread out the blanket that she had brought for them.
She then took his hand, walked him to the blanket, and helped him to first kneel, then lay back, as they laughed at his stumbling together.
"Hey, you should try this blindfolded," he teasingly chided.
"Just lay back and relax," she instructed.
And she hurriedly placed her spread of food beside them, then she lay down by him.
"I love you more than life, Nathan Alexander Grant."
Then she took out the letter she had written to him just last night and read it word for word to him and to him alone.
He smiled as the words rolled off her tongue, and he knew that this Woman, he loved with abandon, had many wonderful surprises to discover.
He had never felt more loved.
When she sat in his lap and kissed him as he had never been kissed, he pulled her closer and wanted to keep the blindfold on forever, for he was seeing her more closely than ever before, both her and her great love for him.
"Lisabeth, I love you more than I knew it was possible to love. When we're apart, I feel you there and long for you. You are my true North Star, my everything. I vow to you I'll constantly find new ways to let you know how treasured you are. I'll never take you for granted."
"My Darling Nathan, I promise you the same. I do treasure you and vow to show you my devout love in every way I can. I will never take you for granted, my Love. Never!"
Then she whispered, "Without you, I can't even breathe."
And to prove it, both became breathless in their kiss to each other.
While they were kissing, she lifted his blindfold and kissed his beautiful blue eyes that had been hidden underneath. It took him a minute to focus, but the only thing he wanted to see was her. It didn't matter where they were or what he was to see. Her face was the only thing he needed in view.
"Come!" as she pulled him up to her side, and what was before him astounded him.
"Besides you my Darling, this is the most beautiful thing in Hope Valley I've ever seen!" he gasped.
A breathtaking waterfall stood just before them, and as the water fell, the sunlight painted it with bright colors that fell in tandem along with the drops of water flowing down and cascading over the large wet rocks below.
They were standing so close, they could feel the water's mist on their skin and even their lashes.
He held her in front of him with his arms around her waist and her arms reaching up to caress his, marveling that she was in his arms and standing in front of this magnificence.
"How did I not know this was here?"
"Jack and I did some scouting, and I know this is terrible, but I've never told anyone. I think everyone was so off-put by the mining disaster, no one wanted to explore or even be here. We just kept it our secret."
He turned her around to face him and placed his thumb and index finger on her chin lifting it to him.
"Thank you for sharing this with me," for he knew the enormity of this gift and it meant more than he could say.
This had been her special spot with Jack, and she was now giving it to him, to them together.
And he kissed her the way she had longed for him to the entire time he had been gone.
She walked him back to their blanket, and he started to reach to feed her.
"No," she whispered. "My turn."
And she did just that, but not before she handed his favorite chilled bottle of Champagne to open.
He popped the cork, smiling at the loud pop which caused the cork to land all the way into the stream beneath the falls.
She clapped with glee!
Then she poured the sweet bubbly into two Crystal Flutes and offered her toast.
"To the Man who makes my World worth living, the Man who has absconded with my heart. The Man I adore more than all others."
They clinked their glasses, and each sipped.
Then as Nathan lay on his side, propped up on one elbow, she fed him the hearty lunch she had prepared just for him.
His favorite Fried Chicken, his favorite Fruit Salad, and last but not least, his favorite Cookies.
Well, she started with a perfect Sugar Cookie, and Nathan ate it like it was the most delicious Cookie ever.
But as she finished, she reached in the Hamper and handed him a second Cookie, a Coconut Cookie.
His mouth twisted but he took it without saying a word.
"These are so delicious, Lisabeth. Did you make them?"
"I did!" she smiled.
"So good!"
He thought she was finished.
But she reached in for a third Cookie, a Toffee Cookie, and then he knew what she was trying to tell him, but still, he didn't say a word.
He ate the Cookie and winked, "It's so good, Love! I think I'm full."
"Oh no, you aren't," she smiled like the Cheshire Cat and pulled out his most favorite, a single perfect Chocolate Chipped Cookie.
He pulled her to them and they rolled over on the blanket, with the cookie thrown somewhere about them, and he showed her his love with a tender caress and a kiss that went on forever.
There were tears in his eyes as he rested his forehead on hers.
"You've been talking to my Mother," he whispered.
"Maybe a little," she sighed.
"I don't think you could have done anything to show me you love me more!"
"That my Darling was the intent," she whispered as she brought her lips to his.
When she laid her head on his chest, he reached for his favorite Chocolate Chipped Cookie she had made just for him.
As it was her gift to him, he took a bite first, then lifted it to her mouth for her to do the same.
And that's how they continued, back and forth, till all the Cookie was gone.
Leaving pure love in its place…
(*62) "A Home on the Range," John A. Lomax, 1910, Public Domain
(*63) "Toora Loora Loora," J.R. Shannon though M. Whitmark & Sons, 1913, Public Domain
(*64) "Amazing Grace," John Newton, 1772, Public Domain