Chapter 149: Jumbled Plans

After a few days of getting acclimated to their stay in Hamilton, the Thatchers and the Grants were thoroughly enjoying being there together.

Surprisingly, despite the ostentatious surroundings, everyone felt at home.

But then with a host like William and a hostess like Grace, who took care of every imaginable detail either herself or by delegating it to an experienced staff member, how could you possibly not feel at home?

As well as loved and pampered.

But today, on this mid-week Wednesday, their last low-key day before the Ball, Elizabeth had one thing only on her mind. She was on a mission, adamant that Viola needed to see Dr. Jenkins as soon as she realized her sister was pregnant, and she was determined to get her an appointment, no matter what.

Even though Viola strongly disagreed with her sister's assessment, and appeared quite resistant to any kind of appointment whatsoever.

Still, Elizabeth wasn't at all worried about that, and she had tried all morning to make an appointment happen but had had no luck getting through to the doctor's secretary.

Yet she wasn't about to give up.

The afternoon being rainy, found Nathan and his wife sitting alone in the Library, catching a bit of much-needed quiet time together.

Godfrey happened in, in reality, to check on his favorite couple, and insisted on dialing the office for Elizabeth.

"Thanks, Godfrey! I've called all morning with no luck at all."

The Butler nodded with a wink.

"I'll take care of it, Mrs. G."

Nathan grinned behind his paper.

It was clearly obvious that Elizabeth was the Butler's favorite of the three sisters.

But then, Nathan could easily see why. He hadn't meant to consciously observe, but as a Mountie, it was impossible for him to not unconsciously do so. And his observations were blatantly clear to interpret.

It was evident that Viola seldom acknowledged Godfrey, and Julie only charmed him when she needed something, and that something was usually a rather huge imposition.

Although Nathan loved his sisters-in-law, he couldn't help but wonder what it would take for the sisters to see how they were perceived, and if that would cause a change.

"The Doctor's Secretary is on the line, Mrs. G."

"Why, you must have the magic touch! Thank you, Godfrey."

"Hello! Yes, I'm Elizabeth Grant, a patient of Dr. Jenkins. I actually just saw him yesterday. My elder sister is visiting from Europe, and she desperately needs to see him."

"Can you tell me what's wrong?"

"She's with child," answered Elizabeth in a lowered voice with her hand over the mouthpiece. "We just need Dr. Jenkins to make sure she's doing okay."

"Is it an emergency?"

Elizabeth paused.

"Yes. Yes, it IS an emergency," she answered adamantly. "She was quite sick yesterday, so I'm sure she needs to see him as quickly as possible!"

Nathan looked up over his paper, lowered his reading glasses, and raised his eyebrows.

His wife covered the mouthpiece again and responded in a loud exaggerated whisper.

"This is not a lie, Nathan! This is urgent, for me to know she's alright, and especially for my elder sister's peace of mind. You don't understand. Viola being pregnant IS a dire emergency! Just wait and you'll see," she warned, forebodingly.

Nathan just shook his head and went back to reading his paper.

Sisters! They fought like crazy, but defended and took care of each other with a vengeance.

And an astute Nathan already surmised in his short marriage, that Heaven help the person who interfered!

As the Thatcher name carried quite a bit of influence in Hamilton, no matter the venue, Dr. Jenkins' Secretary quickly cleared a spot on his schedule for the next day at 10 A.M., which was traditionally the good doctor's first appointment of the day after having done hospital rounds.

"We did it, Godfrey! Tomorrow at 10 A.M. That's the very first appointment! I'm so relieved."

"We make a good team, Mrs. G.," smiled Godfrey, "Sir, would you like anything to drink?"

"Thank you, Godfrey. Do you have any Coffee?"

"Most certainly, Sir. I'll get it now!"

As Godfrey left the Library, Elizabeth began to feel guilty.

She walked over to sit on the plush leather ottoman next to her husband's huge matching chair.

"You're disappointed in me, aren't you?"

Down came the paper.

"Lisbeth, I trust you. If you feel this appointment is urgent, then I'm sure it is."

"I just worry about her Nathan. She had a really rough time with Arabella. And I'm a little worried about the morning sickness."

"Why? Isn't that normal?"

"For most women, yes. But Viola never had morning sickness at all with her first. Her doctor in Britain said he had only seen that once before, but that she was healthy and to not worry. Everything turned out okay. But she's here in the States. What if she can't travel?"

"Babe, is that what's really worrying you? Or is it something else?"

"Why do you ask?"

"You're in protect mode. Usually, there's an underlying reason for that."

A pained look crossed Elizabeth's face, which Nathan didn't miss. She wasn't used to anyone reading her so well. And for some reason she didn't understand, she wasn't ready to share with her new husband or anyone else for that matter.

'I'm being silly! Or maybe it's just hormones. Why can't I just put this out of my mind?' she thought, trying to convince herself.

"Nathan?"

"Yes, Love?"

"Will you just hold me?"

"Sure, Babe. Come here!" assured Nathan, tossing his paper completely aside.

As Elizabeth settled onto her husband's lap, Nathan placed his arms around her, soothing her without knowing why.

He was gently rubbing her back when Godfrey appeared with the Coffee.

It wasn't until he saw the extremely worried look on Godfrey's normally blank face, that he became slightly alarmed…

At the same time, Madelyne was busy in the kitchen having a wonderful time cooking with Cook, whose given name she had learned was Orianna.

But her friends called for Ori.

The two had become great friends, and they spent at least a couple of hours, each day, cooking together and exchanging recipes. Tonight, was different though, as they were actually cooking the evening meal together.

But in the Thatcher Dining Room, when dinner was served and Cook started receiving the obligatory compliments of the evening, she instead proudly deferred all the credit to her humble friend.

"Mrs. Grant is completely responsible for this delicious meal. Everything was completely new to me. So, she should get all the credit tonight! I was simply her sous chef!"

"It was a joint effort, totally equal," insisted Madelyne, but Nathan knew better, as his mouth was watering for the food set before him, his favorite meal from the Ranch.

"I'm not sure exactly what cut of meat this is, but it looks absolutely delicious!" remarked William from his spot at the head of the table.

"Oh, it's beyond delicious, Will! You're going to love it. And nobody makes it like my Madelyne!" bragged Archie.

Madelyne patted her husband's hand with a smile. And Nathan, in particular, couldn't help but be struck by seeing the love between them.

For that, he was grateful and realized he needed to have an even better attitude about their marriage, this time around.

'Something's different with these two, and I should place more trust in their newfound love. Why is this so hard when it's your parents? I'm so protective of Mom, that I'm not giving Dad a real chance. She has, and so should I. She's happy, and that means I should be too. For both of them!'

Their love had always been there even through the darkest times of hurt and humiliation. Even through their grief over Colleen. But somehow, the two of them together had found their way beyond all their tragic past.

He needed to truly do the same outwardly as well as within his heart. He had forgiven his Dad, but he needed to more actively show both his parents and others his support. Finally, he was determined to do so.

"It's Barbecued Brisket, William, and if it doesn't cut like butter, I don't serve it!" answered Madelyne.

"That's my gal," smiled Archie.

"You know this is my favorite, Mom! Those Chile Cheese Grits are to die for. Not to mention the Stuffed Poblanos, which I crave."

"Glad you're happy, Son! If you wait for just a second, I think we've forgotten the Ranch Beans."

"Are you serious, Mom? We get those too?" asked Nathan, feeling like he was about to take a trip to Paradise.

"On my way, Ma'am!" offered Godfrey.

"I think that means I need a lesson in Mexican cooking, Mother!" smiled Elizabeth.

"Any time you wish, my Dear! Thankfully, these recipes are all in that book I made for you, back in Hope Valley."

"But where in the world do you get poblanos?"

"I grow them in my hot house! When I saw these at that fancy little grocery shoppe downtown Hamilton, I just knew I had to grab them!"

Nathan glanced up interested in the exchange between his mother and his new wife because thankfully, Elizabeth outwardly seemed like her old self again.

But still, Nathan was instinctive, and his instincts told him something was still amiss. Very much amiss.

When it came time for dessert, Nathan dared not hope, but today was his lucky day.

His mother had made his favorite Tres Leches Cake.

"Mother, I can't believe you made this for us."

"Ori and I made two Son. There is no way I wasn't going to make your favorite dessert at some point, and I thought the day before we honor Elizabeth's and your writing would be the perfect day!"

"Let's just say we're starting the celebration early, Son," winked Archie.

"Well, with Tres Leches Cake, my favorite dessert ever, we're doing it up right! You all just wait till you taste," dared Nathan.

But he hadn't needed to, everyone was in total ecstasy after just the first bite!

"This is divine, Maddie. Just divine," complimented Grace.

"Heavenly! I could eat the whole thing, and just might," cried Julie.

"We Brits don't even know what dessert is, compared to this! Why it just melts in your mouth!" declared Anthony. "Viola, we must get the recipe for our Cook at home!"

When the meal was finished, Cook looked a little disappointed, as there wasn't a single bite of food left on the table, and that had never happened before.

Without a doubt, the casual Ranch meal had been a rousing success!

Lord Anthony declared it the best meal he had ever eaten, which thrilled Madelyne to pieces.

"After this luscious meal, why don't we move into the Drawing Room?" suggested Grace, as they all rose from the table and lazily moved in that direction.

It was then Nathan noticed Godfrey whispering discreetly to Bertie…

As the doors opened to the Drawing Room, it was impossible to miss the two massive formal fireplaces, ensconced on each end, which were lit and roaring to perfection.

Nathan thought it a bit odd on this hot summer day, although the rain had caused the night to grow a little chillier than usual.

He had to agree, though, the fires most certainly made even this massive formal room feel cozy.

Everyone was full and contented. And ready to play games for the rest of the evening.

Even the children were included, which meant Bertie insisted on sitting with the family, to watch after Jack, in case she was needed.

But now, having seen the look and the whisper passed between them in the Dining Room, Nathan was beginning to wonder if there might be something more between Godfrey and Bertie.

She was a trim elegant woman with the kindest of faces, and although Nathan hadn't thought about it before, she was quite attractive.

Especially when she smiled, and come to think of it she was always smiling, especially with the children, but also with Godfrey.

'How have I missed this?' mused Nathan.

The entire family loved her.

But the biggest concern with Bertie being with the family so much was, that although Little Jack had tested his Bertie as toddlers and small children tend to do, now he was thoroughly in love with her.

"Miz Bertie go wif me on Twain!"

And this had been said many more times than once, even though Miss Bertie had tried her best to discourage it, assuring him she had to stay in Hamilton.

Obviously, it was going to be a major problem when the family left, so much so, that Grace had suggested Bertie come with them to New York, telling William he was going to have to find a Suite for her on the train and in New York as well.

Everyone agreed, but Nathan also saw it as prolonging the inevitable, which would probably be more brutal when the time for their separation actually came.

But watching Bertie with the child tonight, Nathan was beginning to think their leaving would be harder on the governess herself, even more so than on Jack.

She absolutely adored Jack, and the same could be said for Allie, and Arabella, who would soon be returning to Europe.

Although out of necessity, Bertie spent much more time with the little one.

"Port, Sir?"

"Yes, please. Thank you, Godfrey," but Nathan quickly looked around and realized that everyone else was occupied in their own little conversations.

Which meant there was no time like the present.

"Godfrey, may I ask you a personal question?"

"But of course, Sir!"

"Out of this massive Staff, who would you say you're closest to?"

Godfrey didn't hesitate.

"Why, that would be Miss Alberta, Sir! Without a doubt."

There had been no hesitation, and it had even been reconfirmed, but Nathan, being the investigator that he was, didn't at all miss the slight pink tinge that fell over the Butler's face.

'Why Godfrey and Bertie are in love! How has Elizabeth missed this all these years?' he mused.

He couldn't fathom how because his Elizabeth rarely missed a thing, but he intended to find out, smiling as he watched Godfrey serve Port to Bertie.

Let's just say Godfrey's face wasn't the only one that was tinged with pink.

Little Jack, as though he also understood, chose that very moment to run to his father's open arms.

"How's my big boy?"

"I veery big, Daddy! Veery big!"

"You most certainly are," and Nathan lifted him as high as could to a round of hearty giggles, although here, the ceiling towered above them...

Later on in the evening, as the Family played their various games, William came up with a suggestion.

"I just thought of the most wonderful idea! Why doesn't everyone have their regular Christmases on Christmas Day at their various homes, then travel to Hamilton for a Christmas together?"

"I love that Granddad!" shrieked Allie. "But can Arabella come too? Please!"

"We'll have to see, Little Bird," answered her Uncle Anthony, using a common British term for a girl, especially one you loved. "It's an awfully long way from England to here!"

"But it won't be Christmas without Arabella, Uncle Anthony!"

"Allie, your Uncle Anthony will think about it. I agree it does sound like a wonderful plan. But we'll all just have to see if we can make it work!"

"That's more than fair," agreed William. "But I do hope we can work it out. I can't imagine a better Christmas!"

"Please, Papa, may we come?" begged Arabella, who had blossomed under Allie's tutelage.

"We'll try our best, Princess. But we have to see how Mama is feeling too."

There was an awkward moment, but finally, Viola spoke up.

"Thank you, Anthony, for understanding. I suppose we'll just have to wait and see my darling girl."

Everyone other than Viola seemed to be openly in favor of a second Family Christmas, especially, Allie, Arabella, and Jack!

Although it was unlikely the Townsends would be able to travel back from Europe with either a woman almost full-term or with a new baby on a ship, thankfully, they hadn't completely ruled it out either.

All in all, it had been a simple night.

Even though it had ended up in the formal Drawing Room, it had been the simplest the Family had experienced so far.

In fact, it had been very similar to those nights Nathan had spent on the Ranch with his own family, although in much more luxurious surroundings. They were only missing the Ranch horses and beautiful country views. But all agreed, the night simply couldn't have been better!

The Thatcher-Grant-Townsend Families would rest well tonight.

Then after a night of sound sleep by all, there would be as always, a transition into a new day...

But what, one might ask, were their plans for this particular new day?

Usually, there were many different plans, and this new day would be no different.

Except that plans for all of them would culminate with a Formal Dinner and Grand Ball at the Thatcher Estate…

Archie and William

William was leaving right after breakfast and taking Archie with him, to his main office, where, unknown to anyone else, William was determined to squeeze in a business proposal to his friend. He also planned to treat him to lunch on his Company's Yacht. Which by the way was looking impressively sleek in the Hamilton Harbour.

"Now, don't you go thinking I'm trying to show off my boat, Arch! But I thought, tomorrow later in the day, we'd have lunch on the water. Some quiet time away from land might be relaxing before we think about the hubbub of New York City! Come to think of it we're going to need the respite before my wife's Ball tomorrow night!"

Archie chuckled.

"Count me in! I've always loved the water. Served in the Royal Navy in my younger days. Loved being at sea more than anything!"

"What did you do?"

"Worked like crazy to rank Captain! I made it and thought I'd keep going on up. But then I met Madelyne. And everything changed!"

Archie smiled after all these years, just like a young man in love, thinking of Madelyne.

"Do you regret giving it all up, Arch?"

"Not for a second! I have other regrets, Will. Lots of them. But never that…"

Grace, Madelyne, Allie, and Arabella

Grace and Madelyne had promised their granddaughters, Allie and Arabella, they would all visit the Children's Ward to distribute more gifts and treats to the children there.

"But Granda, can…may Arabelle and I help you shop for their presents?"

"I think that would be a lovely idea! Madelyne do you think we can schedule a shopping trip with our girls before Thursday morning?"

"Why don't we do it after our lunch?"

"Sounds perfect, Grandma! I'm in!"

"Me too," added Arabella excitedly.

What the girls didn't say was that they had put aside some of their own money and wanted to pay for as many of the presents as they could.

"What time will we take them to the children," asked Allie, ever the punctual one.

"The hospital staff bathes the children by 9:30 A.M. Why don't we plan to be there right then, on the dot, Thursday morning?"

"We can't wait, Granda!"

Unfortunately, as to the timing, after their visit to the Children's Hospital, Grace had also promised to go with Madelyne at 11:00 A.M. for her second visit with Nathan's great aunt.

"Maddie, I need to meet her so I can fill in taking care of her, or at least oversee her care when you and Archie are no longer in Hamilton."

"Now that's entirely too much! But, Archie and I would be so grateful if you could just call and check in on her once in a while. We're so touched, that you would even consider taking this on, Grace," thanked Madelyne.

"It's a huge relief just knowing she has a contact here in Hamilton. I'm afraid all of her friends have already passed," added Archie.

"All the more reason I need to check on her more frequently," insisted Grace. "True friends help each other out, and that's that!"

It was true when Grace Thatcher became your friend, she did so wholeheartedly. And that meant giving selflessly.

"The problem is Auntie Edith would like to have a luncheon to meet you on Thursday at 11:00 A.M. and we've already promised to take the girls to the Children's Ward at the Hospital. I hope that's all right. I'm afraid she's thrilled at the prospect of entertaining, as her housekeeper said she hasn't done so for many years."

"I have no doubt whatsoever, you and I together can absolutely manage both!"

"But what about your huge Dinner and Ball, Grace?" asked Madelyne worried.

"That, Maddie, has already been taken care of as far as my part! I'm ashamed to admit it but that staff of mine could pretty much put it on without me..."

Anthony, Nathan, and Little Jack

As for the younger brothers-in-law, Lord Townsend, aka Anthony, was planning to ride a couple of hours this morning with Nathan, who also happened to be an expert horseman.

"I need your help, Nathan. I need all the riding tips I can get before we return to Britain."

"But you're a good rider, Anthony."

"Not expert like you. You see, I need to present a better show in next fall's Fox Hunt!"

"Afraid I don't know much about fox hunting, but we can do some drills that might help in general," suggested Nathan.

"But I have to wait till this British chap does a very non-British thing and accompanies his wife to that doctor's appointment Elizabeth made for her."

After all, if Nathan had done it, surely, he was meant to do it too. Or so he reasoned.

"Of course, Anthony! Actually, it all works, because I've got a long game of 'Hide and Seek' I promised Jack after breakfast! The little guy likes nothing better than to play in the Garden."

"Good. It's funny, but I just like riding with you. It's about the only peaceful part of my day. Afraid I don't really have a riding partner back home."

"I like riding with you too, Anthony. And we are getting Blackie more adjusted!"

"You're the one who's getting Blackie up to parr!"

"Anthony, why don't you try to find someone to ride with when you reach home?"

"I may possibly."

Part of Nathan felt sorry for his new brother-in-law, as he didn't appear to have anyone he could really open up to.

He also wasn't at all sure any of Anthony's many acquaintances were actually what you would call friends.

And with Viola as his wife, he felt Anthony definitely needed that…

Elizabeth and Viola

As for the sisters, Elizabeth had secured an appointment for Viola with Dr. Jenkins promptly at 10:00 A.M. on Thursday.

So, Thursday would be the day for Lady Viola Townsend's official confirmation of her pregnancy, whether she wanted it or not.

Although as far as Grace and Madelyne were concerned, that was a moot point!

It was blatantly obvious to them, and as far as they were concerned already confirmed.

"This is positively silly! I don't need to see Dr. Jenkins, Lizzie. I don't! I can guarantee that there will be no surprises," insisted Viola. "I'm probably only a few weeks along anyway. It can't possibly be much longer than that! So, see it will be much too early to tell anything, and this whole appointment is going to be a total waste of time."

She had gone through all this before, and these first few weeks were going to be a breeze! Early pregnancy was not that big of a deal as far as she was concerned since this one experience with morning sickness was her first and would probably be her last, given her history with Arabella.

Although she did tend to have real problems after the fourth month, and on out. At least that had been the case before.

"What were Anthony and I thinking? This wasn't planned, Elizabeth, not at all. I just can't figure out how this happened!"

"Viola!"

"Oh, that's not what I meant!" she snapped back at her sister's implication.

"Are you okay with it, Viola? Are you happy?"

"Surprisingly, yes, I am okay. Not quite to the happy stage yet, but hoping I'll get there eventually."

"I hope soon, Vi! I want you to enjoy this pregnancy, and this beautiful baby that's coming. Do you have a preference as to a boy or girl?"

Viola smirked.

"Well, Anthony's family mourned for a full three months over the fact Arabella was a girl. So, there's that! In Britain, my dear sister, I'm afraid only the males of the species count!"

"Surely, you don't mean that, Vi! Why Arabella is beautiful and the sweetest child ever. I can't imagine our family without her."

"Yes, she is all those things."

Viola snickered.

"If you must know, I think I'm most proud that she's all the things I'm not. But, Liz, history decrees she desperately needs a brother. 'She' won't inherit, Elizabeth! That's just the way things are…"

Julie

As for Julie, she was planning to host a 'small' formal Luncheon at the Thatcher Estate, which would be held in the Conservatory, promptly at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday.

"It's just for a group of my artsy friends, Godfrey. You know the ones, that are benefactors of the Art Gallery I'm hoping to work for, and someday run! But don't tell them that last part!"

"Our secret, Miss Julie. Just exactly how 'small' in your estimation? I'm afraid this time around, I must have an exact head count. Contrary to your misguided assumption, food does not just magically appear. It has to be ordered, stored, then lovingly prepared, and only then is it served to our guests."

"What?"

"I'm only asking, Miss, because I distinctly remember the last time you threw a similar 'small' party for a hundred that was scheduled the day after I returned from my one and only month-long vacation in England."

"Well, you don't have to be snippy! I don't understand the problem, Godfrey. We always seem to manage."

"Yes, Miss Julie, we, Cook and I somehow manage by the grace of God. How many people are coming for our Luncheon, Miss," insisted Godfrey, not about to budge this time.

"Hmph! If you put it that way, rather small. Let me see. I'll count if you insist, Godfrey!"

That was when Julie started doing some imaginary counting back and forth with her fingers, then grabbed a pad and did a few calculations.

"There, I have it," she announced jubilantly, very pleased with herself.

"Yes, Miss?"

"I don't know what the fuss is. There are only sixty people coming. No, make that sixty-five!"

"On the day of your parents' Ball for two hundred? I can't possibly see why that should be a problem at all," he glowered, and for once in his life, just like Allie, Godfrey rolled his eyes to the heavens.

"But, Godfrey, this does sort of need to be a bit spiffy, I'm afraid. These people are very high society and they're used to the crème de la creme!"

"Naturally, Miss. I'll speak to Cook."

"Godfrey, don't be mad! It's not like I sprung this on you and Cook. You both have plenty of time to get everything ready."

"Of course, we do! We have an entire day that is entirely dedicated to Ball preparation, Miss, in addition to running this massive household," he responded dryly, then turned to march off, leaving Julie shaking her head in the Library, ready to plan another major event.

"After all, this little do will soon be over! And I've simply got to the get that Assistant Director's position. Then Director, here I come!"

Godfrey turned on a dime, knowing full well what she was doing.

"Oh, by the way, for the next party you plan, Miss Julie, you will be my personal assistant. That way you'll see how it's done. Good day, Miss!"

Godfrey turned with all the aplomb he could muster, which was quite a bit, leaving a clueless and exasperated Julie behind wondering what had just happened.

"Can he do that?" she glowered, folding her arms across her chest.

But Godfrey heard, and having had just about enough, turned back to the library, standing tall and rather imposing in the ornate door frame.

"Absolutely, he can. As I matter of fact, Miss Julie, 'he' just did. Welcome to my world!"

"Well, I never!"

"Neither have I. That will be all, Miss. It seems thanks to you I have a million and one things to do…"

Julie, Elizabeth, and Viola

Julie planned on Thursday to leave her 'small' formal Luncheon as soon as it was finished to go meet Elizabeth and Viola after their appointment for a late lunch at 1:00 P.M.

"Oh, can we please meet at Labelle's for lunch? I'm craving their Seafood Tower, their huge Salad, and their Dessert Trays! Oh, my, we'll have to order three of each, so we'll each have enough! They're sooo good," pleaded Elizabeth.

"But I refuse under any condition to sit outside in that nasty sea air," insisted Viola. "As long as we sit inside in the private dining area, I'm fine!"

"Well, with two pregnant ladies, I guess I'm outvoted," added Julie not liking the choice at all.

"Absolutely you are," answered Elizabeth and Viola in unison…

Nathan, William, and Archie

Promptly at 2:00 P.M., Nathan was also expected to meet William and Archie at William's main office for a personal tour of Thatcher Shipping and Importing.

"I know you're not coming to work for me, but I still want you to see what will someday be yours," insisted William.

"Dad, don't say that. We prefer to have you with us for a very long, long time. But I'm delighted to see what you've built. I've left the whole afternoon clear just for the tour."

William chuckled.

"You know me too well, Son! It will absolutely take the entire time…"

Allie, Arabella, Margot, and Phoebe

At the same time, that afternoon, Allie and Arabella were expecting guests to visit and play with them.

"Girls, Margot and Phoebe are twins that live next door. Their mother called and said they would really like to meet you. What do you think about having them visit us here," asked Grace.

"I'd love that, Granda, but are they nice?" asked Allie.

"Very nice, and well-mannered too. And I know for a fact they have lots of friends over. They're just a year younger than you Allie, and two years older than you, Arabella. Shall we invite them, Arabella? Allie says yes!"

"I say yes, too, Granda!"

"Good, I'll call Mrs. Rochefort, now!"

That was all it took for Allie and Arabella to chat excitedly nonstop about their two new friends, imagining what they would look like!

Yes, it was going to be quite a day to remember for four young girls…

The Thatcher Grand Ball

But Thursday was also going to be quite the day for all the Thatcher-Grant-Townsend Adults too.

Not to mention, Grace expected her entire family to be in full formal dress and down in the Grand Entry promptly by 6:45 P.M. to form a receiving line and welcome guests to the Thatcher Dinner and Ball being held in honor of their new son-in-law and his wife. The household staff was abuzz, especially Godfrey, the general of it all, who, although he didn't look it, was ready to pull his gorgeous silver hair completely out!

Guests would be received promptly at 7:00 P.M.

A formal dinner for two hundred guests would be served at 7:30 P.M., followed by William's special announcements about his Daughter's new book as well as the reveal of his Son-in-law's work, then there would be dancing for all till the morning came.

Luckily the house was already transformed for the evening, although, of course, Julie thought it had all been done for her and her most important soiree!

Huge freshly cut floral arrangements filled every possible space and everything in the entire mansion glistened to the hilt!

Candles were arranged everywhere, and quite a few pieces of furniture had been rearranged so the crowd of two hundred could be managed more efficiently.

But all that had been done behind the scenes by a Staff that was dedicated and trained like no other.

They were the ones that were to be commended, and Grace truly did that, not only in the form of effusive personal thank yous but also in the form of quite handsome bonus checques for all!

As Grace was firmly of the belief children were not seen at actual Balls, she still expected them to be dressed immaculately in formal dress for the Receiving Line with their Parents.

The doting grandmother known as Granda had selected the outfits herself, expressly for this occasion, for her grandchildren's brief but most important appearance.

She wanted everything to be perfect.

After all, they were being introduced to Society, as was Nathan and his family, and Grace naturally wanted them to look their best, procuring an exquisite and very expensive gown for Madelyne.

The gown was made of the most exquisite silk, and cut in elegant simplicity, with tiny bands of jewels around the raised waist. The gown made Nathan's mother look like visiting royalty. Madelyne loved the gown, but had insisted on paying for it. However, Grace had already taken care of that detail, refusing to tell her friend the cost of the gown, while insisting it was a gift instead.

Grace had also seen to it that her three daughters were presenting their best foot forward in brand new gowns she had procured for each of them.

Grace was leaving nothing to chance.

She had even had Godfrey ensure that the men's tuxedos were in tip-top shape as well.

But to keep her grandchildren occupied after the receiving line, she had planned for entertainment to be provided for them, in the form of three actors who were part of the Theater Guild she chaired. The entertainment would take place upstairs in her daughters' old playroom which did indeed contain a small professional stage of sorts, among other various luxuries her own daughters had grown up with. Bertie graciously agreed to oversee the entire evening for the children.

And since her neighbors, the Rocheforts, were also attending the Ball, Grace had extended the invitation for their twin daughters to come and spend time with her grandchildren, as well as take part in their entertainment.

It was an overwhelming amount of activity for the Family, and even more, most certainly for the Staff, although everyone seemed to be taking it all in stride.

Yet none of these extensive plans accounted for the little surprises of life, nor for the couple of emergencies that would most likely occur sometime throughout the day, and who knows how many more.

What could possibly go wrong?

Just another day in the perfect world of the Thatcher manse, no pressure there, or so everyone thought…