Chapter One Hundred Twenty-One: The Grant Wedding Part I: Eve & Morning
Elizabeth pulled herself away from Nathan's arms for the last time before their actual Wedding Ceremony, placing her back against their now, closed, front door, closing her eyes as his touch, his kisses, and words of love rang through her body.
"Why, oh why, did we agree to a full twenty-four hours apart?"
"Are we insane? All this because of some crazy tradition?"
Half-past Six and no more Nathan.
Her body was starting to heave and tears sprouted from her eyes, falling in tandem down her cheeks.
Viola and Julie looked at the other as each took one of Elizabeth's arms and practically drug her to the big comfortable Sofa in the Living Room.
Grace and Madelyne heard the crying from the Kitchen, and came running!
"Sweetheart!" but Grace realized the problem and knew there was nothing to be said.
Madelyne motioned to Julie and Viola as Grace sat down to comfort her Daughter, pulling her head to her shoulder, patting her as though she were still a child.
Julie and Viola slipped out with Madelyne to the Sun Room where they had hidden their Presents and all the things they needed for their final Secret Bridal Shower, which Elizabeth still had no clue about.
The gorgeous indoor-outdoor Sun Room was festooned with Lilacs, Peonies, and Roses, all of Elizabeth's favorites, the same Wedding Flowers that would be used for their actual service, tomorrow.
The sweet wicker Garden Table with glass top that sat up to six had been set for five with Elizabeth's best china, crystal, and silver, each plate holding a single miniature orchid, long stems of which she would carry tomorrow for her Wedding. The Table had been covered with a floor-length white linen tablecloth and a French Blue and White Toile topper. Pastel shades of silk ribbons, fell from the center, around the table, down to the floor.
Piles of elegantly wrapped gifts, most of them from Hamilton and some from England, Ireland, and Paris were scattered everywhere.
Earlier in the day, Allie had enthusiastically helped decorate, although she was attending another special Party given by her friends at the Schoolhouse, where all the girls, and yes, all the boys too, were gathering to honor her and celebrate the beginning of her new Family. Mrs. Weiss and several of the Mothers were hosting an early meal, followed by games, outside and inside, and later an informal Dance inside the Schoolhouse.
It was her first mixed party, especially as Guest of Honor, and she was beyond excited.
Elizabeth had helped her dress, but Aunt Julie had insisted on fixing her hair, ribbons, and all!
Needless to say, by the time they were through with their muse, Allie looked beautiful enough to turn any young man's head, especially a certain Robert's!
Anna had teased her that there might be a few games and even some dancing!
Elizabeth and Nathan had seen her off together,
"Have fun, Allie! You look beautiful!" her Father had told her as he hugged her goodbye.
"This is your Party, so you just relax and enjoy it! And we want to hear all about it when you get home!" Elizabeth had instructed, beaming with pride.
The Aunts and Grandmothers, also beaming with pride, had lined up to kiss her, wish her well, and send her on her way to the Celebration.
Allie had never had so many Ladies fuss over her before, and it felt good! As she started to leave, she turned back. With tears in her eyes.
"Thank you all! I love you Dad. I love you, Mom. I love all of you so much!"
"Love you, too, Allie Bean," was all Nathan could get out, but the others knew by the look on his face, his stomach was in knots.
"Come, Allie, your chariot awaits, Miss," and Godfrey proudly drove her to the Schoolhouse, where he left Allie in the capable hands of Mrs. Weiss.
"We should be through by 9 or 9:30 at the latest," suggested Mrs. Weiss who was already busily overseeing this and that.
"Thank you, Ma'am. I'll arrive promptly at 9 PM and wait till Miss Allie is ready."
Then the unflusterable Godfrey suddenly became flustered, as Allie turned and threw her arms around his neck!
"Thank you, Godfrey!"
He bent to hear her whisper, "Do I look alright?"
"The bomb, Miss!" he whispered back, leaving a smile the size of Grand Canyon on Allie's face.
It was after that when Elizabeth and Nathan had stolen a few moments alone before, according to tradition, he had to leave his Bride. But when he actually did leave, although she had kept a stiff upper lip in front of him, it had left her inconsolable!
But now, Madelyne, Viola, and Julie were making the last-minute touches needed in the glorious Sun Room for their Surprise Party for Elizabeth.
They had thought about including all of Elizabeth's attendants but decided they might have a better chance of getting her to relax, by keeping it smaller, with those closest to her, limiting it just to the immediate Family.
The three Ladies finished just about the time Godfrey wheeled in the Serving Cart full of Appetizers, Coffee, and Tea, and yes, he was using the Grant's Wedding Silver. He had also prepared a perfect meal, another surprise for serving later. Something a little unusual that was another favorite of his Miss Elizabeth's.
"Godfrey, this is wonderful," complimented Madelyne. "Just perfect!"
"Thank you, Ma'am. I'll go give the Mistress her signal."
He walked down the Hall to the Entry and Living Room doorway, signaling to Grace, who gently suggested to her Daughter that they should go sit in the Sun Room to help put all this behind them.
Elizabeth mechanically did as her Mother said, wondering how she was even going to begin to get through this awful 24 hour period without Nathan.
"Surprise!" yelled Madelyne, Viola, and Julie.
"What's this?"
"This, my Darling, is your very special Surprise Shower given by your loving Family, and if I do say so myself, it's a very special Shower. Because it's all about you, the Bride!"
Madelyne quickly fixed the Guest of Honor a cup of Hot Chamomile Tea with a hefty spot of Honey, as Grace set her daughter down on the White Wicker Settee, between her Sisters.
The entire Sun Room was done in Elizabeth's favorite French Blue with White Toile, and the entire room was stunning, wreaking of femininity.
It was obvious, Nathan had given Elizabeth full rein in this room, giving her the loving gift of a delightful room, for her alone.
All the women could easily envision Elizabeth stretched out on the long White Wicker Chaise, a hand-crocheted Afghan over her, reading her favorite book from a stack of books by her side, with the sun splaying in from the huge floor-length windows on all three sides of the room.
The room's cushions were of plush down, covered in the same French Blue & White Toile that was ever-present in the room.
On the floor, lay the stunning rug she had fallen in love with at the LeHavre, which Pierre and his wife had gifted them. The gorgeous rug perfectly pulled everything together.
The one non-windowed wall of the room was covered with impressionistic paintings, that Elizabeth had collected as a young adult from local Hamilton artists. She had encased them in ornate French frames, most of which were antique. The result was stunning!
The entire room was laden with tall green plants and hanging ferns, making you feel as though you were truly outdoors in a Garden.
Her goal was that someday there would be a beautiful French-styled Garden just outside those windows, and she promised herself that each year she would work toward that goal.
There were no drapes in the room, just huge white shutters that could be adjusted to gauge the sun or even completely keep it out.
Although who would ever want to?
Elizabeth smiled, "You all have gone to so much trouble for me!"
"We love you! Open this first!" insisted Julie, who handed her Sister a breathtaking package wrapped in a gorgeous silk scarf, with a coordinating scarf tied around as ribbon.
"How innovative, wrapping this so beautifully in silk. I love the scarves! They're beautiful," mused Elizabeth, starting to refocus away from her sadness.
"Just wait till you see what's inside! Hurry! Open up!"
"Jules…" Elizabeth wasn't quite sure what to say and lifted it up only to quickly let it fall back into the box.
"You, my Sister, are going to let everyone see what's in that box. Or I'll do it myself!" demanded her Baby Sister.
And Elizabeth knew she would.
Elizabeth gave Julie a blushing, very frustrated, look.
"I'll get you back for this, Julie. I give you my word, I will get you back!"
And Elizabeth slowly pulled out the silk object inside the silk-wrapped box, turning her head away, while still blushing all shades of red!
"It…it's black!" noted Grace, not sure exactly what it was.
The silk, what there was of it, was indeed black, and that's about all she could say. Until she realized something.
"Darling, do the scarves go with it?"
"Mother!" spewed an exasperated Julie.
"Julie, where did you find that?" asked a prickly Viola. "That is the most atrocious, hideous, and risque thing I've ever seen. Even for you!"
"Good, then I've done my job! But come on Viola, we know you're not really a prude!"
"Julie, someday you'll learn the difference between not being a prude and being a Lady!"
"Touche, my dearest Julie! I'm afraid your Sister Viola's right," agreed Grace.
"Well, it's quite unique," offered Madelyne, trying to think of something nice to say. "But, I must admit, I'm a bit worried about my Son having a heart attack."
"He'll go happy!" exclaimed Julie with glee.
"Julie!" cried Elizabeth. "I'd like to keep him around the rest of my life!"
"Well, she does have a point," laughed Madelyne, throwing Julie a wink.
Feeling poor Elizabeth needed a break, Madelyne quickly found one of her gifts that she knew was safe, and handed it to the Bride.
"Oh, Madelyne! You made these, didn't you?"
"For my beautiful Daughter-in-Law!"
There was a complete set of Silk Packing Cases in Elizabeth's favorite French Blue for her undies and silk stockings. They were beautifully hand embroidered with Elizabeth Rose Grant in metallic gold thread onto each of the right-hand corners. Each case had an overlapping flap that was fastened with a matching metallic golden silk frog.
"They're exquisite and perfect for the Honeymoon!" Elizabeth jumped up to kiss her soon-to-be Mother-in-law.
Grace was next with her first gift.
Inside were three sets of the most exquisite corsets and undies in white, ecru, and black handmade lace. They were of the latest fashion and were simply stunning in their design.
"Oh, Mother, these are so beautiful. We just can't find things like this around here! They're perfect! Thank you!" and Elizabeth got up once more to kiss her Mother.
"Open this one next, Lilibet" urged Viola. "I picked this up when Anthony and I last visited Ireland. I found it in a darling little Irish Shoppe in Dublin."
"The wrapping is stunning, Vi! Can't wait to see what it is!"
Inside was the most beautiful robe of heavy Irish lace, tatted intricately in an old Irish Design consisting of roses interlaced with ivy.
"Roses for your middle name and because you love them."
"Oh, my goodness! I've never had such a beautiful robe. Never! Thank you, Vi. The roses are perfect, and every single time I wear the robe, I will think of you."
"There's a picture of me with the Lady who actually tatted the lace. I think it's tucked in the sleeve."
"Viola this is just so thoughtful. I love it!"
The two sisters hugged, both with tears in their eyes, knowing they would soon be parted, and neither wanting their time together to end.
"Open this one now, Sis. You'll understand why."
"Vi, the plaid wrapping is gorgeous!"
"It's your Tartan, the Grant Tartan," she shyly announced.
"Really?"
And when Elizabeth lifted the top, the same blue-green Tartan fabric was inside. She lifted it out very carefully. Not yet sure exactly what it was until she lifted it from the box.
"This is wonderful! It's another robe!"
"Yes, as soon as Mother told me about the Lodge, I knew this was perfect. The right weight and the Tartan fits right in with the Lodge's more rustic vibe."
"Oh, Vi, this is too much! But it IS perfect. Absolutely perfect. I'll keep it in our Bedroom there! Thank you!" and she kissed her Sister's cheek again.
"Viola, Nathan will love that it's the Grant Tartan. Oh, my goodness, Archie will too. I love it as well. Such a thoughtful gift. So personalized," complimented Madelyne. "I actually once dressed Colleen in a dress made from that very plaid, and Nathan will never forgive me, but I also made him the cutest little matching kilt and stole. They both were so adorable in their Tartan! I think it's my favorite picture of them together!"
Viola beamed with pride. Being so far away, it had been difficult to know exactly what to purchase, but she had given it great thought, wanting to make her gifts extra special for her Sister, partially to make up for their past differences and start out on a totally new foot.
"I'm glad the Tartan brings back such a wonderful memory for you, Madelyne!" and Viola meant it from the depths of her heart.
There was something about this strong woman who had been through so much. And somehow, Viola, though usually not impressionable, couldn't help but be impressed by Nathan's Mother.
Madelyne nodded her thanks with happy tears in her eyes.
"Please show me the picture when we visit! Promise me?" begged Elizabeth.
"I promise, Sweetheart. It's on the chest just as you come into our house! You won't be able to miss it!"
"Oh, I hope there are lots more pictures of both Nathan and Colleen."
She wanted to know everything about this man she so desperately loved and the Sister he loved so completely.
"There are a couple more, Elizabeth," added Viola as she moved two more boxes closer to Elizabeth. "You might as well open these as well since this one is from London, and the other from Paris. I picked them up on my last trips there."
The gift from Paris was a small box, and surprisingly heavy when picked up.
Elizabeth carefully opened the Gift Box.
Inside was the most elegant bottle of perfume topped by a hand-blown glass stopper tied with a golden tassel.
The personalized white label was etched with Elizabeth Grant in Gold lettering and underneath was written in smaller script 'White Lilies & Lavender' in French!
"I know you love White Lilies and Lavender. So, I had this made at my favorite Perfumerie! I thought you could wear it for your Wedding."
As Elizabeth lifted up the glass stopper, the most magical scent filled the air.
"It's the same scent as I always wear, but somehow richer, deeper, more complex. It's even more perfect! I can't thank you enough. It's Nathan's favorite too. Oh, my heart thanks you!"
"Just wear it in happiness!"
"I will," Elizabeth promised. "And it will be like you're with me when I wear it!"
Viola smiled, loving that she had selected something to connect them while almost two continents away.
"This last one from London is from both Julie and me!"
"Oh no, should I be scared?" asked a very hesitant Bride.
The three Sisters laughed together, and Elizabeth proceeded to cautiously open the box on her lap.
"It's black, and I think it's a gown!" peaked Elizabeth, but as she pulled it out, there was quite a bit more to it than Julie's first whatever it was.
"This is amazing. So very beautiful. I didn't have a black gown, and this is so elegant! Oh, there's a peignoir too! This is so gorgeous, just gorgeous. Thank you! Thank you! I'll think of you both!"
"You'd better not," laughed Julie, and everyone else, even the Mothers' joined in agreement as well as laughter.
"Well, I guess I have to redeem myself!" and Julie handed a tiny elegantly wrapped package to the Bride.
"Julie, how did you know? This is perfect, Jules. Just perfect!"
It was a golden Charm Replica of Elizabeth's own Sunroom with tonight's date & Family Surprise Shower engraved on it.
"Let's just say my Brother-in-Law-to-be helped me quite a bit!" smiled Julie. "We've had this little Surprise Party planned for a long time!"
"I love it!"
"There's more," and Julie handed her a hatbox.
"This is from me. I had Sophie make it to match that outfit you bought for your trousseau."
Elizabeth shrieked, "That's the outfit I wanted for the afternoon New York City Reception. I hadn't had time to look for a Hat and they said Hats were 'de rigor.' This is everything, Jules. It's stunning. Leave it to you and Sophie to make it so unique. I just love it! I really do!"
She grabbed her Baby Sister and hugged her as tightly as she could.
"And this one might just make up for that first fiasco!"
"It wasn't a fiasco. Exactly. I'm just going to have to get up the courage to wear it," laughed Elizabeth, "or as Mother suggested, use the scarves, dear Sis! But even with the scarves, I don't know. Yes, definitely lots of courage!"
"And maybe medicate my Son, first," laughed Madelyne.
Giggles quickly turned to laughter and then crying.
No one was able to stop!
Elizabeth lifted the lid to Julie's gift.
"Pairs and pairs of the finest silk stockings! I needed these so desperately for the Honeymoon. Thank you, Julie. These are the very finest I've seen!"
"That's because they come from Henri's in Hamilton, imported straight from Paris!"
"Leave it to you!"
"Darling, open this next!" urged Grace.
"Mother, oh my! This is just magnificent. And in those beautiful Teal colors with both bluish and greenish tinges. It's a showstopper! I love it!"
Yes, Elizabeth recognized that the Dress was indeed couture. The dress came with the perfect bolero jacket and matching couture hat. As well as teal leather gloves. What an ensemble!"
"One can never have too many outfits in a trousseau! Just enjoy, Dear!"
"Here's something else I made for you, Elizabeth. We don't have a lot of shops near the Ranch!" explained Madelyne. "But Nathan told me about the room he was building just for you. And I wanted you to have something to keep you warm in your private spot, something to wrap you in love."
"The gift wrapping is beautiful! I can't wait to see," and Elizabeth tore into the package.
"Oh my. This is gorgeous. And you made this? I don't have an afghan for this room and the white is perfect. I love the tassels! They're so elegant."
"There are actually two afghans, just in case you let Nathan in, you can curl up together."
"That is perfect and so sweet. I'm sure these will get a ton of use!" and the very thought caused Elizabeth's eyes to sparkle. "This may be my room, but Nathan is always allowed to visit! I wouldn't have it any other way!"
"Here's another little thing I want you to have. It belonged to Nathan's Great Grandmother and has been passed down through every woman in the Family. Now it's yours, Dear!"
Elizabeth carefully unwrapped the lovely package, having no idea what could be inside.
Tears sprung to her eyes, "This is the most beautiful Bible I have ever seen."
"It's hand-carved Mother-of-Pearl and it was made in the Holy Land. All the names of the Grant Women who have owned it are written inside the front cover."
Elizabeth opened the Bible and read through each and every name.
"I will cherish this, use it daily, and carry it to Church weekly. You couldn't have given me anything I'd love more."
Elizabeth got up, kissed Madelyne on the cheek, and whispered, "I'm so very honored. I'll take excellent care of it and pass it on."
"I know you will, Sweetheart. There is no one else I'd rather pass it on to."
Madelyne embraced her future Daughter-in-Law, knowing in every way, she would really be her Daughter, with Elizabeth knowing that Madelyne would be her second Mother.
"Now the rest of the presents are from both Madelyne and me. We had so much fun shopping back and forth by mail and telegram. We hope you love everything…" enthused Grace.
The first exquisitely wrapped box was a kid leather pair of heels with a matching handbag in summer ecru. Along with a matching pair of dress gloves.
"They will match almost everything I have. How did you two know I needed these?"
"We just decided we wanted you 'high style' in the big city," explained Madelyne. "And that meant we had to think a few essentials."
"We hope you love them, Darling!" added Grace.
"Oh, I do. Thank you so much! This is like Christmas!"
Next was a pair of silk bedroom heels.
"The bedroom slippers I didn't know I needed. Oh, my goodness! These go into my Honeymoon suitcase along with the robes and gowns and perfume and – oh my, you've spoiled me rotten!"
They fit perfectly and made her feel like a Princess, trying on glass slippers.
Next was a long slender box, with the most exquisite gold and Diamond Hatpin Elizabeth had ever seen!
"We had it custom-made for you using a few of Granda's old diamonds no one was using. She would want you to have it, Darling!"
"This is simply amazing! And to know the Diamonds are hers! Thank you both for doing this It will match everything. It's so elegant and terribly thoughtful!."
"And don't worry Lilibet, Mother had enough left over for Jules and me - so we all got Hatpins from Granda!" announced Viola.
"That makes it just perfect, Vi!"
The next box they handed to Elizabeth was rather large, and she had no idea what it could be, but as she ripped off the paper, and peeked inside, she recognized the name of a French luxury luggage designer.
"There's more. We got you the complete set, and a matching set for Nathan as well. You'll be traveling all summer, so we just couldn't think of a better Wedding Gift for the two of you," explained Madelyne.
Elizabeth lifted the leather tag and saw her new name imprinted there in gold.
"Elizabeth Grant! I love that so very much! Nathan and I were laughing about how ragged our luggage looked. You couldn't have gotten us anything we'd love more. Thank you both so much."
Elizabeth jumped up and hugged both her Mother and future Mother-in-law, grabbing them together in one gigantic hug.
"There's one last one. This is for your Wedding Night, Darling. Madelyne and I had so much fun sending pictures back and forth trying to decide which was most you. But in the end, neither of us doubted that this was the one. We hope you love it!"
Elizabeth opened the box, and the softest white chiffon came spilling out everywhere over the edges.
It was simply the most magnificent peignoir and negligee set she had ever laid her eyes on.
"Oh, Elizabeth, there are no words," remarked a stunned Viola.
"I've never seen anything like this before! Never!" exclaimed Julie.
Elizabeth was just speechless.
All she could do, with tears in her eyes, was kiss her Mother and Mother-in-law once more.
"I.." but she couldn't say a word.
Finally, through her tears, she eeked out, "Nathan wi..will love this! I…I love this!"
Madelyne patted her on her back while Grace took her hand to lead her to the Garden Table, motioning to the others to come be seated there.
As if by magic, Godfrey instantly appeared and seated the Guest of Honor first, then the Mothers, and then the Sisters.
"Ladies, one moment for Dinner."
It seemed less than a moment as the Ladies were chattering away, when Godfrey came back into the room, carrying a huge tray of filled plates.
"Ladies, Dinner is Served. May I?"
He then served each of the five Ladies with the most elegant plates of Seafood Newburg, another favorite of Elizabeth's as a Child, but this Seafood Newburg was fancifully served in individual Pate Choux's, made by Madelyne per Godfrey's attentive instruction and guidance.
"This could not be more delicious," exclaimed Elizabeth.
Had tomorrow not been her Wedding Day, the Bride would have definitely had seconds, but joyfully, tomorrow WAS her Wedding Day, so she opted to abstain.
"I can't tell you how very much it means for Nathan and me to have each of you with us. It means the world. It truly means the world. You've supported us as no other two families could come together and do, and that is the most priceless gift," she started crying again, and everyone joined in.
"A toast," and Grace lifted her glass. "To the most Magical of Marriages, the most Loving of Families, and the Happiest of Happily Ever Afters, my Darling!"
"Here, here!" and all the glasses clinked, echoing the exact same wish.
"Nathan, there's are gifts for you!" called Adeline, as she came down the stairs.
Nathan came in from the Kitchen where he and Bill had been having Coffee.
Leaving Elizabeth had been more difficult than he could have ever imagined.
Now, he understood why Bill had erupted when Adeline had insisted they honor this same time-worn tradition for their own Wedding.
Suddenly, everything was very real, and finally, very close!
But a whole twenty-four hours without her made his headache, as well as his heart.
"What's this? The boxes are huge," puzzled Nathan. "Do you know who brought them?"
"Godfrey dropped them off. He said they were from both the Grants and the Thatchers. I think they are their Wedding Gift to you. Well, aren't you going to open them?"
Nathan untied the huge bow of the largest box and carefully peeled the expensive paper away.
"My! How did they know I needed this? Oh, here's a note."
He opened the envelope carefully, then read aloud.
To Nathan, our Son,
Happy Wedding!
"To the most Magical of Marriages, the most Loving of Families, and the Happiest of Happily Ever Afters!"
Elizabeth has just been given a matching set as well.
We love you,
Mother & Dad
Grace & William (but we hope that is soon Mother & Father as well)
"How lovely, Nathan. The card is every bit as lovely as the gifts!" exclaimed Adeline.
"I don't get it. You've really charmed those two!" remarked Bill. "They weren't all that nice to Jack. Wonder what's happened?"
"Maybe they've learned from their mistakes. They're good people, Bill. I have to admit, their wealth still throws me every now and then, but in the end, I can't hold that against them. Elizabeth and I were laughing about our tattered luggage. We were almost too embarrassed to take them on the Train, especially going to New York, but there just wasn't time to replace them. This is the perfect Wedding Gift!"
"Nathan, grab a seat," ordered Bill. "Any nerves settling in that your old Best Man needs to troubleshoot?"
"Surprisingly, no. I just can't wait to marry her, Bill," responded Nathan with glistening eyes.
"That's lovely, Nathan. And I know she feels the exact same way," interjected Adeline.
"Adeline, may I show you something? I did something I'm not really sure about. I just wanted it to be special."
"What is it?"
"Elizabeth thinks she's seen her Wedding Band in platinum, but it was just a mock-up plated in white gold. You see, I didn't get to buy her an engagement ring, and…"
"And that bothered you?"
"Yes and no. It's just that a Husband generally buys the engagement ring, but Elizabeth had her heart set on her Granda's. I couldn't deprive her of that, but when I was explaining it all to Jefferson, our jeweler in Buxton, he asked me what I wanted to do to contribute. I came up with this idea, but now, I'm worried that it was crazy."
"What idea, Nathan?" asked Bill brusquely.
"I had this made," Nathan reached into his pocket and took out a gold velvet ring box."
Adeline gasped.
Bill let out a low whistle.
"You like it? You think she'll like it?"
"Nathan, she will love it! How did you match the old European Diamonds?" asked an intrigued Adeline, remembering Elizabeth's engagement ring Diamonds.
"It sure wasn't easy, but we were finely able to track down matching ones. Jefferson had them shipped in from Europe, actually. I'm worried that she won't like it or won't like being surprised, or…"
"She will LOVE it! I promise you. It's just stunning and I can just see it wrapped around her engagement ring. I love that she doesn't know. Oh, Nathan, she's going to be so surprised at the Alter. And absolutely thrilled! It's going to make the most gorgeous set!"
Nathan breathed a sigh of relief, "This was the only thing I was worried about!"
"Yep, Adeline's right, you have the romance gene!" balked Bill, almost grudgingly.
"And you, Husband should take note!"
Nathan held the ring up, two bands of old European Diamonds that matched Granda's Diamond Ring perfectly, both bands fused together at the very bottom point, just as the mock-up had done, but they were also made to perfectly fit around Elizabeth's engagement ring.
"She will be so surprised and so happy when you put that on her finger! Look at those Diamonds sparkle! I mean, it's just stunning!"
"Thank you, Adeline, I really trust your judgment, so this means an awful lot."
"You're makin' it real hard on us old husbands, Nathan!" complained Bill. "I'm havin' trouble keepin' up here!"
"As if you'd even try to keep up," teased Adeline.
She bent to kiss her crusty old Husband, who did have his moments, she'd have to admit.
"If you and Elizabeth are half as happy as Bill and me, and I know you are, everything's going to be all right!"
"Hey, I'm the Best Man. I'm supposed to be the one sayin' stuff like that," complained Bill.
Adeline just shook her head.
Both she and Nathan just burst out laughing together, and for the life of them, couldn't stop!
The Grant's Wedding Day, Saturday, the Eighth of June, 1918 finally arrived in all its glory.
And it WAS glorious. The perfect June Summer Day. The very day Elizabeth had always dreamed of for her Wedding Day.
The hazy Morning Sun streamed through the windows of the Bedroom Elizabeth was using until later when she and Nathan would take up residence in their Home's Master Suite.
She sat up in her bed.
"My Wedding Day!"
Then fell back onto her pillows with the biggest and sweetest smile on her face.
She had never felt so magnificently happy.
There was a slight knock at her door.
"Happy Wedding Day, Miss," and Godfrey walked to her bedside where he poured her morning Tea and added two lumps of sugar just like she liked it.
"Let's do an extra one today, Godfrey," she said excitedly.
He smiled and placed a third lump into her cup.
"I don't have to ask if you're happy, Miss," smiled Godfrey. "It does my heart good!"
"Godfrey, what would I ever do without you?"
"Let's never find out, Miss!"
"Agreed! This is really my Wedding Day!"
"Yes, Miss, and you'd better lay back and get a bit more sleep. We are on a very tight schedule today. I have your clothes packed for transport. We must leave no later than 10 to get you properly ensconced in the Lodge before Guests arrive. Also, Judge Avery says it's going to be difficult to keep Mr. Nathan inside for very long. I assured him we'd be gone no later than half past 10 AM. Close your eyes, Miss!"
"Godfrey, I'm not a Child."
"You are to me, Miss," and with that, he slipped out the door and down the hall.
Elizabeth tapped her fingers absent-mindedly against her voile gown.
She wasn't sure she could go back to sleep, and then it was as though a light bulb went off!
She grabbed her journal and pen and curled up in bed, trying to find her best writing position.
As she started writing, she relaxed.
'My Darling Husband,' she wrote.
She then took a sip of her tea to collect her thoughts…
Nathan had been awake long before sunrise.
"My Wedding Day. It's finally here," and although alone, he simply could not wipe the smile off his face.
An exuberant joy filled his being as he had never experienced before, and he longed for the better part of him, for she was already that and more.
She was everything to him.
He first read his Bible, I Corinthians, Chapter 13, which would be read today in their Service. He was so thankful that Elizabeth had added it in.
He also read their favorite poem by Emerson, as he always did, although he didn't need to read it at all, as he knew the words by heart from long ago.
These same words, he and Elizabeth would lovingly say to each other in just a few hours, as part of their heartfelt vows to each other.
He wasn't the least bit nervous, or even anxious. He was ready. Perfectly ready.
Their life together lay before them, and from today forward they would be going through that life together!
He knew he couldn't go back to sleep, so he pulled out his journal and grabbed his pen, something he had done from childhood.
Then he got back in his bed, and scrunched up his long form, as this bed he had been loaned was not nearly long enough to accommodate his height. He twisted and turned till he achieved at least a minimal level of comfort. And his heart was filled with his love for her.
He totally relaxed as he began writing the words that made him feel as though she were with him.
'My Darling Wife,' he began.
George was standing guard, waiting, ready to meet Elizabeth and her entourage, led by Archie and William.
"Welcome to the Lodge," George said humbly, but proudly to the Men as they disembarked their carriages.
"George, so good to see you again," smiled Archie as he shook his hand.
"Wonderful to be back, George. Today's the big day!" proclaimed a very enthusiastic William.
Then as Elizabeth got out of the carriage, George walked to her and bowed his head before the Bride, as was his custom.
"Welcome to the Bride on this great Day of Honor."
Elizabeth smiled and reached out her hand.
As he helped her down, she impulsively kissed him on the cheek.
"Thank you, George, for being here and for helping me. You must stay for the Wedding. We want you to meet all of our Family and Friends. But mostly Allie and Jack who are dying to meet you. And since we're putting you out of your home for a bit, we've arranged for you and Rip to go stay at Nathaniel's. He has a Guest House, where you'll both be very comfortable."
He lowered his head in gratitude.
"It is an honor, Ma'am."
She smiled. Then her eyes slowly moved from his rugged face, taking in the magnificent beauty that surrounded her from every angle.
Elizabeth literally gasped, as did just about everyone with her!
Adeline, Felicity, Julie, Rosemary, and Viola had gotten out of their carriages and were standing by her, absolutely speechless.
Grace, Madelyne, and Laura had stayed behind with the Children as they were all coming later, so that Jack, Frederic, and Arabella in particular, wouldn't get restless. Sweet Allie was helping Laura, keep everyone occupied. And Nathan had promised to check in on them.
But the vast scene before the Wedding Party was literally out of a storybook.
"George, it's like a Fairy Tale," whispered Elizabeth.
"Rooted in Reality, Ma'am."
"The very best kind," she beamed as she continued to peruse her beautific surroundings.
Everywhere she looked there was stunningly beautiful countryside, grounded by the most magnificent Lake.
It truly was Nature at its finest, merged together into a Cathedral of God's great handiwork, as though it were untouched by human hands.
The wild rose bushes that edged the entire expanse of Lake Granda astounded even her, for this was the first time she had ever seen them in bloom.
"I don't know that I've ever seen anything so amazing," she uttered, not sure she had the words that were needed to do it justice.
"Miles and miles of wild roses stretched out as far as the eye can see," she added.
"Natural, carefree, uncontrolled, meandering into an explosion of Rose color on a bed of green, punctuating the Crystal Blue of the Lake's deep water. It is God's Art," declared George.
"The contrast is breathtaking."
Her eyes went to the water and she clapped her hands at what she saw.
"This is perfect, absolutely perfect."
George once again nodded, pleased to see that she was so pleased with the plans coming together.
"Your Florists have worked painstakingly to make their work one with Nature. It is a success, no?" asked George.
"It is very much a success, yes!"
She turned to her Attendants.
"See the huge Arrangements they're putting the finishing touches on, that flank the Gazebo? They will form the stopping point for the women on the left and the men on the right, as you both come down each side of the Guests," she instructed. "I'd like you to line out, angled, toward the Gazebo. The Men are going to do the same."
"It will be perfect, Elizabeth, just perfect," offered Rosemary. "We'll practice it once, so we get it perfect."
"Oh, Elizabeth, you and the Children will have to come down the center. I can't think of anything that would be more beautiful," suggested Viola.
Elizabeth smiled and nodded.
"That's exactly what we are going to do. Bill is going to hold Jack and Allie is going to go stand in front of Laura after she takes my spray of Flowers. The Gazebo somehow makes our vows feel private, and I love that! Also, after the Ceremony, Allie and Jack will move into the center for their parts. I think it's going to be beautiful!"
Elizabeth had already determined the center aisle and center front was to be left only for the Grants, Nathan, Elizabeth, Allie, and Little Jack. It was Elizabeth's way to give Nathan the smaller private Wedding they both had really wanted with just the four of them together.
"Darling, it's going to be perfect, and I'm the lucky Man that gets to walk down that aisle with you!" bragged her Father.
"Kisses, Father. I wouldn't have it any other way.
"Look at the Gazebo, Elizabeth. It's magical," exclaimed Felicity.
The Gazebo was already draped in huge Garlands of Elizabeth's Wedding Flowers, from the bottom to the top, tons of Lilacs, and Peonies in Pink, Rose Pink, French Blue, and Lavender. Along with the Lavender Lilacs and wild Pinkish Rose-colored Wild Roses thrown in.
"Look at the scattering of Orchids throughout. Just breathtaking," mused an awe-struck Rosemary.
"The Florists added Jasmine as filler. I can't believe I didn't think of it. Their heady scent is everywhere, and they just tie all the flowers I love, together so perfectly. The color also matches my Gown! Rosemary, I owe you an apology. Everything looks so natural, like the flowers they fixed belong just where they are!"
"No, you the one who was right. Nothing could compete with these majestic surroundings, without blending in. I'm just astounded."
"Lilibet, how did you ever come up with all this?" asked Viola.
"Just pieces of both of us and our Family!"
"Can I have my Wedding here?" begged Julie.
"Any time, you just let know when," and Elizabeth hugged her two Sisters, pulling one to each side.
"Even the tent looks like it belongs," said Julie.
"I know it's amazing. It really does!" agreed Viola.
The massive White Wedding Tent had been decorated with huge urns of the Wedding Flowers, just like the centerpieces by the Gazebo, the Florists were currently working on. Garlands of Flowers were hung from the Tent's center, draping down where they attached to the wall's highest dropped point, where from there, they continued to fall to the floor. Smaller matching arrangements had been made for each table.
"Look at the arrangements! The loosened petals of Lilac, Peonies, and Wild Roses, surrounding them, give everything an even more relaxed and natural look," enthused Felicity.
"The Florists are doing an amazing job. They're friends of Nathan's you know, from Buxton! They have done every single thing I've asked and more! Simple, casual, natural with just a hint of elegance. It just feels so right! I'm so thrilled with everything! I'm going to go tell them thank you! I also want to spend a few minutes meeting Constance's Mother. Nathan thinks so very highly of her."
"George, what's it like living on this beautiful land?" asked Adeline. "I'm Bill's wife by the way."
"It's home," answered George simply. "And it is the greatest of honors. Mrs. Judge Avery delighted to meet."
Adeline smiled because she knew he meant it.
"It's Adeline, George, no Mrs. Avery!"
"My honor, Adeline," but at about that time Rip came roaring through, and went straight to Adeline, the consummate dog-lover.
"Oh, I can tell we're going to be very good friends, you and I. Nice to meet you, Rip!"
The dog was in love. He paid no attention to anyone, even his Master, except Adeline.
"Look at that! Even the chairs are laid out so perfectly on the flat grass, just in front of the Gazebo and Dock, like the land was even made just for this occasion," mused Felicity. "Love the semi-circular arrangement, drawing everyone's attention to the Bride and Groom.
Felicity moved toward Elizabeth, as she saw her finish talking to the Mother-Daughter Florist Team. But suddenly, Felicity stopped cold, for having been a recent Bride, she knew that this Bride needed a moment alone.
Elizabeth's eyes teared as she once again, took in the full scene before her, and she glanced up to the skies.
"Thank you, God, for this beautiful perfect day, this beautiful perfect land, and all the people who have created these stunning Wedding arrangements, as well as all the other services that have been rendered. Bless our Wedding and bless our Marriage, Nathan and I both pray."
"Are you ready to get started on makeup and hair?" called Rosemary, jolting Elizabeth out of her private moment.
Felicity hugged the Bride, bringing her gently back down to the chores at hand, and arm in arm they walked back toward the others together.
But she turned to glance one last time over the perfect setting for her Wedding, and Elizabeth knew in her heart that she and Nathan had made the right decision.
They both would have preferred a very private Wedding.
But all their Family and Friends desperately wanted to be included, and how could they not?
They had given in, not once regretting their decision, but with a steely determination, they also knew that along with sharing their Wedding and even celebrating their Guests, they were going to do things differently.
And most importantly, they would still maintain a true air of intimacy reserved for the two of them and the four of them alone.
For this was their Wedding, their day of joy, and it was going to be nothing short of glorious!
"Ladies, let's go get beautiful!" called out the jubilant Bride.