Chapter 16—Party Planning—Part 2
Lucas rode into town. He smiled as he thought of how busy he had been the last week. I assumed getting people to manage my businesses would result in a little down time. Christmas Eve was only a few days away now, and he had spent some time at John's ranch helping to finish up some building for the party. He was happy for his cousin, but he wondered how John would like the solitude of the ranch once Christmas was over. John was always the life of the party and liked a crowd around him. Of course, he would have his ranch hands, but no company of the female persuasion unless he came to town. Lucas guessed he would see John at least once a week, perhaps he would come for church on Sundays. At least Lucas hoped so.
The ranch was coming along. Lucas was surprised at how much had already been done for the celebration. The hands didn't seem to mind pitching in even though it wasn't their normal job. They had also gotten a lot done on the ranch itself. As for Christmas Eve, John was planning to cut some trees for the inside of the barn and Elizabeth had the children making decorations for them. John was letting his house be used for childcare during the festivities. With a bonfire outside, there needed to be a place for the small children to go and be safe. There were rotating volunteers for all the booths as well as the childcare. Rosemary and Elizabeth had set it up so everyone could pitch in and help, but also get to enjoy themselves. They had found several people in the area that played instruments and were furiously practicing so they would have live music.
Lucas was glad to be getting back because he missed Elizabeth terribly the last two days while he was gone. Also, tonight was Nathan and Fiona's dinner date. After Nathan had sent Fiona the flowers and note last week, Lucas had gone to see him.
"Nathan I just wanted to let you know how happy Fiona was with the note you gave her. And the flowers of course."
"I think I was trying too hard to be like you, Lucas. I don't know that I'm the type to quote poetry, I should never have suggested it. But I do sing and play the guitar a little."
"I never wanted you to think you had to do things like I do. But it doesn't hurt to have a little culture in your life," Lucas joked. "You didn't mention playing the guitar and singing before. Just how comfortable are you with that?" Lucas asked.
"Pretty comfortable, why?"
"Because I have a better idea for you than quoting Byron."
They sat and planned out the dinner date which would take place in the quietest corner of the saloon with a special meal by Gustave. Lucas made suggestions to keep the conversation going should Nathan have problems. And Nathan had a surprise for after dinner, which Lucas helped him come up with.
Lucas recalled the conversation with Nathan as he headed to the livery. He planned to leave his horse, then freshen up before going to see Elizabeth. The last two days had felt like a lifetime away from her.
###
John had enjoyed spending a couple of days working with Lucas. As much as his cousin liked his fine clothes, he had no problem with hard work. He looked around, pleased with the results he was seeing so far. His ranch was large, so the hands had put up some temporary fencing to keep anyone from straying too far from the party area. He had some beautiful pasture land, but also some wooded areas that someone could get lost in. This extra step would help ensure that all had a good time and were safe. And the fencing could be moved and reused when the party was over. It was extra work, but John was okay running a couple of weeks behind on his self-imposed schedule for the ranch. For the moment, this was more important to him.
John took a drink of water as he leaned against the barn wall. He immediately thought of Lucy. He wondered if she would be coming to the party. And if she did come, who would she come with? She hadn't been in town long, much like himself, and couldn't know anyone that well. Should he invite her as his guest? It just might be a good idea, and he could keep a close eye on her if he did so.
He settled it in his mind that he would make a quick trip to town the next day and invite her. As much as they had butted heads, he could still be the bigger person and help out a stranger in town.
It's the least he could do.
###
Elizabeth kept looking at the clock. School would be out soon, and she knew Lucas had said he would be home about this time today, barring complications. She couldn't believe how being away from him for such a short time had affected her. She thought back to her relationship with Jack and how often he had to leave town. Once again, she was grateful that this time she had fallen in love with a man that didn't have to travel for a living. She and Lucas had connected so quickly- if she didn't include the time that he knew he loved her, and she was denying her own feelings.
She looked at the clock again and with 5 minutes left, decided to dismiss. It was the last school day before the holidays anyway. Elizabeth watched as the kids hurried out the door and when they were all gone, she quickly threw her coat on and grabbed her things.
Elizabeth rushed out the door, and suddenly stopped. Standing just in front of the school was Lucas with a big smile and a red rose in his clasped hands. Elizabeth dropped her basket and ran straight into his arms that opened before she got there.
"Lucas, I can't believe how much I have missed you," she said as she clung to him.
"Elizabeth," he whispered into her hair. She leaned back and looked into his deep brown eyes, then he leaned down and kissed her. She knew they probably shouldn't display their affection in public this way, but right now she didn't care. All that mattered was that he was back, and he was safe.
He pulled away and casually looked around, bringing a laugh from Elizabeth. "It's a little late now to care if anyone was watching," she said as she reached up and placed her hand on his bearded cheek.
He smiled down at her, "I think you are more beautiful than you were two days ago."
Elizabeth walked back and retrieved her basket and rejoined Lucas, taking his hand in hers as they began walking towards town.
"Was your trip productive?" Elizabeth asked as they walked.
"Very. We got just about everything done except for the last-minute decorating that we will do on the 23rd."
"I am so ready for a party! And I'm glad that the whole town is invited. Should be a wonderful time."
Lucas looked down at her and smiled, his thoughts going to his own surprise that would be revealed later. "I am looking forward to dancing with my beautiful lady."
"You are an excellent dancer, as I recall."
They continued to town, chatting about all the plans being made for Christmas Eve.
###
Nathan was in the office doing some paperwork when Bill walked in. "Hey Nathan."
"Hi Bill. Seems the whole town is enthusiastic about the Christmas dance."
"I wanted to talk to you about that. I noticed you have been staying out of all the preparations. I thought for sure you would be inviting Fiona to be your date," Bill said.
"I'm not planning to go," Nathan replied.
Bill cocked his head, then nodded. "I guess I've been so distracted I didn't even think about leaving the town mostly deserted. Shame on me for forgetting my Mountie training so quickly. Are you disappointed?"
"Only that I won't get to escort Fiona. I know what my job is and protecting Hope Valley has to come before a party. Our dinner date is tonight."
Bill smiled, "I bet you are nervous. Just be yourself. It will all be fine."
Lucy came bouncing in at that time with a big smile on her face. "Hello Nathan, Judge. Isn't it all exhilarating?"
Bill waved hello.
"I assume you are talking about the party planning?" Nathan asked.
"Oh yes! I couldn't help but get drawn in to all the preparations. I just wish I had someone to go with," she said as she looked up at Nathan.
"Nathan has to stay in town and will sadly miss the festivities. But I would be happy to be your escort," Bill said.
"How sad for you, Nathan! How sweet of you to offer, Judge!"
"Now remember, it's Bill."
"Yes…Bill. Thank you. I would love to go with you," Lucy said with a bounce.
"Great! I will get back with you on the time. I have to go early. I'm doing the cooking."
"Just let me know when. You know where to find me," Lucy said. "I'll see you two later."
Nathan laughed and shook his head. "That girl is like a jumping bean. I don't think she knows how to stay in one spot for long."
"She's a breath of fresh air. I've enjoyed talking to her since she has been here."
"I'm sure she will enjoy the get-together. She seems like the party type. Nice of you to take her." Nathan said then grabbed his hat. "Alright, I have things to do. See you later, Bill."
"See ya," Bill replied.
###
Fiona was having trouble focusing on work all day. Lucas had told her this morning to leave an hour early and he would cover for her until Albert showed up. He knew she had a date with Nathan and would want to get ready.
Nathan had come in a couple of times to chat in the last week, but traffic had picked up so much they couldn't really talk. So, Fiona was glad they had dinner planned for tonight. Hopefully the conversation wouldn't lag. She rarely had problems talking to anyone, but she was a little anxious since it was her first dinner with Nathan.
Fiona and Lucy had talked a few times, but Fiona had never mentioned her feelings for Nathan to the other girl. She still didn't know her well, and hoped she wasn't the type to be competitive where men were concerned. Lucy had shown some interest in Nathan and that made Fiona uneasy. Lucy was a beautiful girl with a bright personality. Any man would be happy to be seen with her on their arm. Fiona didn't want Nathan to be that man.
She thought of Johnny and the way he spoke to Lucy the other day. Fiona hadn't had a chance to talk to him since then, but she definitely saw some sparks flying. Whether they were sparks of interest or dislike, she just wasn't sure yet. But something was there.
###
Rosemary hadn't stopped since the planning had begun. She had a lot of dresses to make and was so grateful that Elizabeth had stepped in and helped with the preparation. They hadn't had a dance in a long while, not counting Clara and Jesse's wedding, and she was ready for some fun.
###
Fiona was checking herself in the mirror for the 15th time when she heard a knock at her door. She wrinkled her forehead, wondering who it might be as she thought she and Nathan were meeting downstairs.
She opened the door to the most gorgeous blue eyes she had ever seen. Nathan was wearing a nice suit and holding a vase of flowers in his hand. He had a cheery, crooked smile on his face.
"I…thought you might like these. I figured you didn't have a vase in your room."
"They are beautiful, Nathan. Thank you so much," Fiona replied as she took the flowers from him and placed them on her dresser. "I thought we were meeting downstairs."
"Since this is a date, I wanted to escort you down, if that's okay," he said nervously.
Fiona's heart leapt when she heard Nathan call it a date. "Of course. I'm honored."
She grabbed her bag and followed him out the door. After she shut it, Nathan put his arm up and she placed her hand at his elbow. Then they proceeded down the stairs. Neither one spoke until they reached the bottom, where they received stares from all the patrons.
Lucas walked up, "Follow me. I have a table all set up for you."
They walked through the saloon, noticing everyone whispering and smiling. Nathan leaned down, "I think we got their attention."
"Oh, we most definitely got their attention," Fiona replied. "Of course, if they are gossiping about us, they are giving someone else a rest."
Lucas led them to a quiet corner. Fiona noticed it was a little darker here, and the table was set with a lace cloth, and a candle in the middle. Lucas must have set it all up after she went upstairs.
"This is beautiful. Thank you, Lucas," Fiona said.
"Yes, it is. I appreciate your help, Lucas," Nathan added.
Lucas tipped his chin, "Your dinner will be ready shortly," he said. Then he walked away, leaving them on their own for a moment. He soon returned with a bottle of wine and poured them each a glass. Then he left again.
"I'm glad we have this opportunity to talk. You have been so busy lately we haven't had the chance to."
Fiona nodded, "I know. I'm sorry about that. I would have enjoyed the conversation I'm sure."
Nathan took a sip of his wine and noticed he was a lot more relaxed than he thought he would be. "Tell me about yourself, Fiona. I really don't know much about you," he said, leaning back in his chair. Lucas had coached him a little on the art of conversation when having dinner with a lady, and Nathan figured this would be a good start. Plus, he really wanted to know more about her.
Fiona began telling him about her family and all of her siblings. He laughed when she would tell him funny things that would happen with such a large family. He found himself very interested as she spoke and would ask her questions. When it was his turn to talk about himself, it came easily for him.
The evening flew by. Both Nathan and Fiona were surprised to notice how late it was. Their conversation had never lagged as they enjoyed their meal. The saloon had quietened down, but they never noticed because they were so engaged with each other.
"It's been a lovely evening, Fiona. I hope we can do this again very soon."
Fiona smiled. "I have enjoyed every minute, Nathan."
He stood and helped her with her chair, then she took his arm, and he escorted her back to her room.
"Thank you for having dinner with me," Nathan said sincerely. "I…uh…wish I could invite you to go to the barn dance with me, but I won't be able to go. I have to stay in town. I hope you understand."
"I do, Nathan. Thank you for telling me. Goodnight."
"Goodnight Fiona."
She went inside and leaned against her closed door. Then she hummed as she danced around her bedroom, not wanting the feeling to end.
Nathan went back downstairs and found Lucas at the bar. Lucas reached down and picked up Nathan's guitar and handed it to him. "Good luck," he said as Nathan took the guitar and walked out the saloon doors.
Nathan hoped Fiona hadn't changed yet as he reached down and picked up a few pebbles. He tossed several towards her window, a few actually connecting. He waited for a bit, then saw a shadow. Fiona peeked out and he waved at her from below. She finally opened the window and looked out.
"Nathan? What are you doing?"
Nathan smiled and began playing a slow tune. "This is something special, just for you," he said. "She walks in beauty like the night," he sang. Fiona stood in the window and listened. He had taken a poem by Lord Byron and put it to music, changing up some of the words as he went-for her.
Tears filled her eyes as she realized he had this planned before their dinner. It must have taken him a while to perfect it. His voice was amazing and so was his playing.
When he finished, he smiled his crooked smile and her heart melted.
"Thank you, Nathan. That was wonderful!"
"I'm glad you enjoyed it, Fiona. Thank you again for dinner. I enjoyed every minute. I'll see you later."
He waved and she waved back, then he walked away, and she closed the window.
Fiona smiled as she thought about the last few hours. And she smiled because she was falling in love with a Mountie.
###
Elizabeth heard the early knock on the door and wondered who it might be. Laura wasn't coming, as there was no school and Elizabeth would be home all day.
She walked down the stairs and opened the door, finding a small box laying on her porch. She picked it up and looked around but didn't see anyone. Elizabeth took it inside and shut the door.
She looked at the fancy box, admiring it before opening it. It was red velvet with a fancy gold bow on it. She carefully opened it and gasped. Inside there was a beautiful sapphire bracelet and a folded piece of paper. When she opened it up, she smiled as she read it.
My love,
I thought your beautiful blue eyes would make this bracelet look good. Think of it as an early Christmas gift.
All my affection,
Lucas
Elizabeth took the bracelet out and examined it. It was stunning, with not only sapphires, but some diamonds as well. She knew it would be perfect with her blue dress she was wearing to the dance. Had she even mentioned that to him? She didn't think so.
Lucas had exquisite taste and Elizabeth looked forward to thanking him with a kiss when she saw him.
###
Fiona was having a wonderful day at work. She couldn't stop thinking about her evening last night and how pleasant it was.
"You certainly look happy," Lucy said as she walked up and leaned on the bar. "It wouldn't happen to have anything to do with your dinner date last night, would it?"
Fiona smiled. "Possibly."
Lucy crossed her arms and smirked. Then she nodded. "Fiona, how long have you had feelings for Nathan?"
Fiona opened her mouth, then closed it. "Whatever do you mean?"
Lucy laughed. "One thing I learned to do long ago is read people. You are in love with Nathan."
"No use in denying it. Yes, I am falling for him." Fiona stood there uncertainly, not sure if she should have shared her personal feelings with Lucy.
"As I said, I can read people pretty well. You think I am interested in him."
"I did wonder," Fiona replied.
Lucy placed her hand on Fiona's arm. "Please, don't think I have any romantic feelings for him, because I don't. I am happy for you, truly."
Fiona relaxed and smiled. "Thank you, Lucy."
Nathan entered the saloon and walked up to the two women and stood next to Lucy. "Good morning, ladies. I hope you are both having a wonderful day." He included both but smiled at Fiona.
"Good morning, Nathan," Fiona said, smiling. "It's even better now. I'm sorry, please excuse me for a moment."
Lucy watched Fiona walk away to help a customer and then reached over and touched Nathan's arm, leaning towards him speaking low. "Nathan, why didn't you tell me you were interested in Fiona? You let me go on and on flirting with you. You two make an adorable couple."
John rode into town and stopped in front of the saloon. He had to get back to the ranch, but thought he better take care of the invitation to Lucy before it got too close to the party.
He stood in the doorway and looked around, his eyes stopping on the princess and Nathan standing close together at the bar. Lucy had her hand on his arm and was speaking quietly to him. She had his full attention.
John nodded and turned around, not entering the saloon. He mounted Outlaw, and swiftly rode out of town, back to the ranch.
Looks like Lucy had found her own date to the party.
Author's Note: I am so enjoying this story and hope you are too. I think Fiona and Nathan could be a supercouple on the show and love writing them together. Lucas and Elizabeth have become so comfortable quickly, probably because they have been friends for a while. They are easy to write. I'm curious to see what Lucy will do next, she is a bit of a surprise for me to write. Her actions and words come to me abruptly. And I am fairly certain that John Davis is my newest crush.
I incorporated something into this chapter that my sainted mother used to say a lot- if they are gossiping about us, they are giving someone else a rest. I think she would love my story.
