Chapter 32. Surprise!
Julia arrived at Nathan's around 2 p.m., and knocked lightly on the door. Nathan opened, and seemed in a very good mood.
"Hi, Jules." He said, with his crooked smile, opening the door for her to enter. He watched her intently as she came in, admiring how lovely she looked. She was wearing a light blue skirt and crisp white shirt under her nurse's apron. Her sandy blond hair was up in a loose chignon, with a few loose tendrils falling around her face. His heart skipped a beat at how very beautiful she was, even in nurse mode.
"Good afternoon, Nathan. You are in a good mood." She surmised, "excited about Allie's party?"
"Yes, and your visit." Nathan said, with a cute smile.
"You are excited about a house call?" Julia laughed.
"With you, of course. And then there's the coffee time I'm going to try to rope you into. I have desserts, lots of them. Left over from last night." Nathan smiled his most charming smile at her.
She tilted her head and said with her hand upturned, "How could I say no to that charming smile…and desserts?"
He looked happy that she seemed to have just accepted, and replied, "I'll even let you ask your question first, today."
"Ok, you have yourself a deal." Julia replied as she lifted her finger. "But examination first, Lawman."
"Of course, Nurse Matthews." He smiled and started to unbutton his shirt while he moved to the couch to sit down. She looked over the wound where the stitches had been, and said, "It looks fine, Nathan. As it heals, it might itch a little. I have some ointment at the infirmary that might help. Just let me know if you need it." She said with a smile. She examined his ribs, and they were still pretty swollen, but looking a bit better. His blood pressure was also fine.
"Everything checks out fine, Nathan." She paused, as he started buttoning back his shirt. "Shall I put the coffee on?" Julia asked.
"Actually, I already loaded the coffee pot, so you only have to put it on the stove." Nathan smiled shyly, "in case you said yes."
"You were betting on me saying yes, eh, Constable?" She said with a sly smile.
He couldn't deny it. "Yes, ma'am." he said simply.
Julia stood and went to the kitchen and placed the coffee pot on the stove. Then she took out the tray, two cups and saucers, and was getting the spoons when Nathan came and joined her in the kitchen. He took the desserts out, and placed them on the counter. He took out two dessert plates and caught himself watching her again. She met his gaze, so he finally asked, "What would you like, Jules?"
"Well, can I order another "assiette gourmande, please?" she asked with a shy smile.
Nathan smiled back and said, "coming right up!" He said as he served her all three desserts. He made a similar plate for himself, and carried them both over to the living room. When the coffee finished gurgling, Julia served the two cups. She took the milk out of the ice box and put a little in her coffee. Then she carried the tray over to the living room and sat down next to Nathan.
He was having a hard time taking his eyes off of her today, so he decided to focus on his coffee.
Julia asked, "Is everything ready for Allie's party tonight?
Nathan responded, "As far as I know. Minnie came by this morning to pick up some decorations my mother brought. It sounds like everyone is pitching in." he said as they both started eating their desserts.
"I told her I would come early and help set up. Then, I will come here as originally planned, and walk with you, so Allie won't suspect anything." Julia stated, as she sipped her coffee. "Do you think she has any idea?"
Nathan smiled happily, "No, not at all. And, I would be able to tell. She is going to be so surprised."
"I can't wait to see her face." Julia smiled imagining how happy Allie was going to be about a party just for her.
"Mom and I were saying the same thing this morning." Nathan said, as he sipped his coffee.
"Did they leave early for their ride?" Julia asked.
"They left out about 8:00 a.m., Mom was taking her up quite far. They packed a picnic, so will probably be back about 4 p.m." Nathan answered.
Julia looked down at her plate, almost finished now. "I can't wait to go riding again."
Nathan smiled at her, "I can't wait to take you riding again." He paused and then said, "Though, I'm sure you could go with Allie and Mom next time. They would probably love to have you along."
"That would be nice, but I'm also impatient to go again with you." She paused, and then added, "I still didn't try the gallop."
"Well, as soon as I'm cleared to ride again, we can resume our lessons." He promised. She smiled at the thought of being out on the mountain again with Nathan, riding fast through the meadows together.
Julia set down her empty plate and picked up her coffee cup. She smiled at him and said, "I look forward to it."
"Jules, true to my word, I'll let you ask your question first today." Nathan stated.
Julia looked at him and took a deep breath. She knew what she wanted to ask, but had been hesitating because she was afraid it might be a sensitive subject. She didn't want to risk him shutting himself off to her, or deciding he didn't want to play anymore. But, she weighed that with the fact that they had come a long way together, and she wanted to know about the hard things he had been through as well as the good. So, she took a chance.
He could see she was hesitating, but he waited. He felt mostly ready for some of the hard questions he had been reluctant to think about a week ago. He wanted to try to talk about those things, with her. She had come to mean so much to him, he wanted to share more with her.
"Ok, Nathan. One question." Another deep breath, "I would like to know…why don't you play the guitar that's hidden under your bed?"
Nathan wasn't quite ready for that one. He looked into his coffee cup, and felt like the air had gone out of him. He took a deep breath, opened his mouth, closed it again, and looked at her. She was looking at him with so much affection and acceptance that he couldn't be anything but honest. It was a hard topic, but one he wanted to try to share with her.
She didn't rush him, and she didn't look away. She just waited patiently, convinced that whatever the reason, it would never change the way she felt about him.
"I haven't played since Colleen died." he paused, and she waited. "She and I…well, I used to play…and we'd sing together." his voice got a little shaky so he paused again, "Ever since she died, I can't bear to play it, and I can't bear to part with it." When he looked up she realized his eyes were full of tears. Julia reached over and took his hand. "And, I'm sorry, but I don't think I can bear to talk about it."
Julia said, "It's ok…I'm sorry, Nathan. If I had known, I wouldn't have brought it up." She paused, collecting herself, "I thought with all the time you have on your hands, it might be therapeutic...I had know idea your aversion had to do with Colleen."
Nathan looked at the wall opposite and said, "I know it's been 9 years, but I still miss her."
Julia said sadly, "You don't have to explain anything to me, Nathan. I know exactly where you are coming from. I haven't been able to pick up a paint brush since my father died." He looked at her then, and saw the tears welling up in her own eyes. "And, talking about it isn't easy."
He cleared his throat and said, "I don't have any strings for the guitar, anyway. So, it's best left under my bed."
She nodded in understanding, realizing the subject was off limits. She just sat with him a while, holding his hand. Neither of them said anything.
Finally, he cleared his throat again, and decided to ask her a question. Maybe that would help him feel better. "I have a question for you, Jules. Do you play any instruments?"
Julia was glad to change the subject, and hoped to lighten things up. He obviously wasn't ready for those hard questions yet. "I can play piano, and I really love to play. But, it's been so long, I'm not sure I would be any good anymore." She gave him a sad grin and said, "It's hard to travel with a piano."
"Jules, you know there is one in the Saloon, just in case you ever want to play." Nathan encouraged her, though in a quiet voice. He was trying to keep the conversation light, but was doing a horrible job at it. "Maybe for Fiona's next Social Club you could play us a tune."
Julia couldn't imagine playing in the Saloon. "I'll have to think about it."
Nathan seemed a million miles away. She regretted bringing up the guitar, the subject had been like a damper on the two of them. She had hoped he would be more open to talk about it, but she hadn't realized it had been linked to Colleen. She knew that was still a deep well of pain for him, as her father was for her. She understood how hard it was to talk about, no matter how much time had passed.
Julia reluctantly let go of his hand and decided to busy herself by collecting the dishes and then washing them. So, she loaded everything on the tray and carried it into the kitchen. She made ready the dish water and slowly washed the dishes, one by one, and then left them to dry. When she was done, she turned to find a dish towel and realized Nathan was standing just behind her.
Julia looked up at him and he didn't seem okay at all. He put his hand on hers and slowly started to pull her into his embrace, as he usually did. However, she didn't wait another second and went into his arms immediately. Her arms came tight around his waist and back and she buried her face in his chest. His heart skipped several beats and the butterflies made a mess of his insides. After talking about the guitar and Colleen, and feeling her holding him so tight, he fought hard to keep his emotions at a manageable level. He took deep breaths, one after another. Julia smelled so good and her breath was soft and warm on his bare skin, where his buttons were open at his neckline. Both of those added a measure of strain to his already raw senses. His emotions were just on the surface, one more drop in the bucket and he was sure he would lose all restraint and kiss her right then. He had planned to wait for their first date, he wanted it to be special. But, he felt himself falling for her more and more everyday and was fighting hard to make it that long. And, she wasn't making it easy on him, as beautiful and amazing and wonderful as she was. And now, this chasm he felt between them was unbearable. He knew it was all his fault, but didn't know how to cross it.
He couldn't talk about Colleen. He wasn't ready. He thought he was, but it all came crashing back at the mention of the guitar. He was right back by her bedside watching her slip away. No matter how much he wanted to let Julia in, he wasn't sure he could, not yet.
They stood there for a long time, almost clinging to each other. And, they probably would have stayed there, just like that, a while longer, if they hadn't heard the front door open.
"Dad! Dad! We're back!" Allie called out. Julia stepped back and let go of Nathan quickly. She turned and made like she was arranging the dishes.
"Allie, ssshhh! He might be napping." They heard his mother say.
Nathan thought he better let them know where he was, "I'm not napping, we are in the kitchen."
"We?" Allie asked, as she came bounding in. She looked over and said, "Julia!" Allie came and gave her a hug, and asked, "What are you doing here?"
Rebecca walked in behind Allie, and took in both Nathan and Julia. Right away she could sense that something was off. Something had happened that brought a strain on both of them.
"I was just here for your father's routine house call." Julia stated, trying to sound as if everything was normal. She took a deep breath, but couldn't meet Nathan's gaze. Suddenly Julia remembered something very important and exclaimed, "Happy Birthday, Allie!"
Allie grinned from ear to ear excitedly. "Thanks, Miss Matthews. I don't feel any older, yet." She laughed.
"Yes, it usually takes a little while, doesn't it?" Julia gently joked.
Rebecca chimed in, "We had a great ride, though." She said, laying her saddle bag on the table. "We went all the way up to the upper meadow," She looked at Nathan, "Allie said it's one of your favorite places, Nate." She used Colleen's endearment without realizing it was so raw, and saw her son flinch.
Nathan answered trying to sound casual, "Indeed it is. It's especially beautiful this time of year." He paused and looked at Julia and added, "I can't wait to get back up there."
Julia understood he was passing her a subtle message, but she avoided eye contact. She was still trying to collect herself after their intense embrace. She had felt so many different emotions during their talk, and then had to fight to keep them in check during the embrace. He was so important to her and his sensitivity so endearing, that she was so easily undone by him. She hadn't needed much of a nudge to go into his arms, and hide herself there in his quiet strength. After having to leave that comfort so abruptly, she now felt raw and exposed. The distance between them amplified, and it was too much.
"I really should get going. I need to finish up at the infirmary so I can be back in time for your birthday dinner, Allie." Julia said, smiling at Allie.
"Yes, don't be late, Miss Matthews!" Allie laughed. "It's my favorite day of the whole year."
"I won't, I promise." Julia smiled, remembering how important birthdays were when she was 13.
Julia walked to the living room, leaving the three of them talking in the kitchen. She picked up her medical bag, pulled out The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, and left it on the coffee table. She walked back over to the kitchen and said good-bye to all three of them.
"I'll be back in a few hours." Julia said, looking excitedly at Allie.
Nathan walked her to the door, though the good-bye was short, with the others looking on. He opened the door for her and she looked up to find him still looking quite sad. She waved awkwardly and left, escaping his gaze before he could see the disappointment in her own eyes.
When Nathan turned around, he spotted the book on the coffee table. He went over and picked it up and sat down with it. He opened the cover and saw her beautiful handwriting on the inside cover. Julia Matthews. He let his fingertips lightly brush over her name, and he smiled. He knew he had to find out how to bridge the gap that his hesitance had created. Julia had come to mean far too much to him.
At 4:30 p.m., Julia arrived at the Canfield's. She came early to help set up for Allie's party. She had been up very late last night, and very early this morning making a huge batch of mini quiches, a summer peach salad, and 2 big bottles of punch. When she came inside, everything looked amazing already. Angela and Cooper had decorated with a big Happy Birthday banner and colorful balloon bunches, all over the living room. A table for the finger food buffet was set up, though there was only a tablecloth so far. Julia brought a bouquet of flowers for a centerpiece, and streamers. She gave the roll of tissue streamers to Cooper, who immediately brought them over to his dad, eager to string them up. Joseph was still in a cast, but getting around much easier without the crutches.
"Be careful, Joseph." Julia stated with a caring smile. "No standing on chairs or a ladder."
Cooper replied, "Don't worry, I can do that part." And, he stood up on the chair to tack up one end of the streamer, while his dad held the other side. "Miss Matthews, how do we get it to look…nice?"
Julia came over and showed them how to twist it to give it a little flair, and they both nodded gratefully.
"Ah," Joseph said, "that's the secret!" And, Julia giggled at the two guys trying to make the decorations pretty. "We can handle that, right Coop?" Joseph accepted the challenge. Cooper nodded, and Julia left them to it.
She came back to the kitchen to see what she could do next. Minnie and Angela were hard at work on the cake.
"What can I do, Minnie?" Julia asked.
"Well, we need to set out all the plates, napkins, forks, on the buffet table. I won't put out any perishables until later, but anything that will keep and can be set out already, please let's go ahead and set up."
Julia put her quiches and the punch bottles in the icebox, and went to work. She found a vase and put her flowers in the middle of the table. Then, she arranged everything that could be left out already, but left spaces for the things still in the icebox.
When she finished the table, the cake looked almost ready, and the streamers were all done. She looked at the clock and realized the time, and decided she should head to Nathan's soon.
Julia came over and asked, "Minnie, I promised Allie I would walk over with them. I was afraid if I didn't agree, she might get suspicious. So, unfortunately, I need to head over there now. Is there anything else that needs to be done before I go?"
Minnie looked around, and everything looked amazing already. "I think everything is just about ready. I only have to finish two things on this cake, and then set everything else out when the guests arrive. And, they should start arriving anytime now. I told everyone to be here at 5:30 so we would be sure everyone was inside and hiding by 5:45 p.m. So, make sure that you don't leave Nathan's until 6 p.m. sharp, okay? Just to be sure."
Julia replied with an excited smile, "I will do my best, Minnie. I'll tell Nathan and I'm sure he will figure out a way to stall her."
She decided to leave her basket by the front door at Minnie's and just picked up the gift that was so neatly wrapped, laying inside. When she opened the door to leave, there were already people arriving. Opal and her mom Ellen, and Emily and her mother Cat, were just coming up the steps. Robert was just behind them, with Paul, Florence, and Ned. Julia waved at them all and quickly walked to Nathan's.
Julia arrived at Nathan's and knocked. Allie opened so obviously excited and grinning from ear to ear.
"Miss Matthews, come in. I'm so excited you are coming with us." And she motioned Julia inside where Nathan and Rebecca were sitting in the salon. They both looked up happily when she came in and greeted her. Nathan stood and came over to stand next to her. Allie noticed the pretty wrapped package that Julia was carrying.
"Are you excited for your birthday dinner, Allie?" Julia asked.
"Yes I am," Allie said cheerily, "and, it's been such a great day already."
Julia noticed Allie spying her gift, so she held it out to her. "I have a little gift for you, Allie. Happy Birthday."
Allie took the pretty wrapped package and the little card, and looked pleased. She asked, "Can I open it now?"
Julia shrugged and said, "It's ok with me if it's ok with your Dad." And they both looked over at him.
"Fine with me, Allie." And she carried it over to the couch and sat down to open it. Julia and Nathan came over closer, though there still seemed to hang an awkwardness between them.
Allie first opened the card and read the sweet endearments and birthday greetings Julia had written. Then she opened the paper and found inside a nearly pristine but gently used copy of Anne of Green Gables. She looked up at Julia with a question in her eyes, and Julia softly said, "open to the front cover, Allie."
Allie did so and read what was written on the inside. She squealed with delight as she asked, "Is this real? Is that really her signature? This book is actually signed by Lucy Maud Montgomery?" Her eyes were big as saucers and she looked up at Julia in disbelief.
"Yes, it's real, Allie. I saw her sign it with my own two eyes. And, she wrote that inscription for me, though I think it's absolutely perfect for you, now." Julia said simply.
"This was your book? You met her and she signed it for you?" Allie asked in disbelief, "And now, you want me to have it?" Allie thought it too good to be true but she wasn't sure about taking it. "I don't think I can accept it, Miss Matthews. It's too much."
"Allie, I want you to have it. Really." Julia said in earnest. "Without question."
"How on earth did you get to to meet her?" Allie asked.
"Where I grew up, the closest city near to us was Halifax, where Lucy Montgomery studied at University. When Anne of Green Gables first came out, she did a book tour. For one of the stops on her tour, she came back to Dalhousie University for a book reading and signing. My father got us tickets, as a surprise for my 15th birthday." Julia explained.
"What was she like, did you get to talk a lot with her?" Allie asked, excitedly.
"Well, as you can imagine, there was a long line of girls like me, waiting to meet her. And, I got only a few minutes with her. But she was lovely. I was so star struck and tongue-tied when she asked me what I wanted to study, I told her "painting…or maybe writing." She laughed and wrote that inscription as an encouragement to me." Julia laughed timidly at the memory. "In that moment, I was so shy and just didn't know what to say, but her inscription was just perfect- the right encouragement at the right time."
Nathan walked over behind Allie and bent down to read the inscription.
Reach for the stars. Always remember that your only limitations are the ones you impose on yourself, and of course, the sky.
Your friend,
L.M. Montgomery
"Wow, that's so beautiful, right, Allie?" Nathan said, looking at Julia, stunned by this gift. He couldn't believe that Julia would part with such a precious item, especially one that had come about because of such a thoughtful surprise on the part of her father. He realized it must have been part of a father-daughter trip. He was blown away that she would gift an item that had been so close to her heart, to Allie.
Allie handed the open book to Grams so she could read it too. Then she stood and came over and hugged Julia hard, with tears in her eyes. "I can't believe you would give me something so precious to you." Allie whispered to her.
Julia said low, "I want to, Allie. I'm right where I'm supposed to be now, but you are still figuring out your way. Maybe her words will be an encouragement to you, as they were to me. Especially since I know how much you admire her."
Allie stepped back and went over next to Grams, to explain the story to her. Nathan came over and stood close in front of Julia, so that no one else could hear, and said low "Are you sure?"
"I'm totally sure, Nathan. When I give a gift, I think about it long and hard, because I want be sure it comes from my heart. And, I've thought plenty about this one, and I'm sure." Julia said, confident that this book was now meant for Allie.
"But, it was from a trip with your father, right? A surprise from him?" Nathan asked.
"Yes, but Nathan, my father was a wonderful father, just like you. And I have a million great memories with him. It's hard to think about them sometimes, now that he's gone, but I am blessed to have each and every one. I don't need a book to remind me how much he loved me or how much he meant to me. I have lots of other things from him, and each holds a precious memory." Julia stated, with misty eyes. "And, I really want Allie to have this one."
Julia paused, and then added, just above a whisper. "And, it was the very next morning, after the book signing, that my dad put me on a train from Halifax to New Brunswick, to Aunt Eleanor's house. That was the summer I spent with her, when I decided I wanted to be a nurse. So, I did figure it out, after all." Julia explained.
He looked down at her, feeling so sorry about the way he wasn't able to open up to her. And, here she was opening up even more before him, before all three of them, even. It made him ever aware of the gift she was to both he and Allie, and he was determined to cross the chasm.
Rebecca suddenly looked up from the book and squinted at the clock, and said, "What time is it?"
Allie looked up too, at the clock and realized it was nearly 6 p.m. "We have to go soon!" she exclaimed excitedly.
The four of them came to the front door, and made ready to leave. Nathan looked around to make sure they weren't forgetting anything.
Julia approached and asked him, "Nathan, I realize we didn't think of the wheelchair. Do you think you can manage to walk that far?"
Nathan shrugged and said, "Faith wanted me to start taking short walks on Monday anyway, so I'll just start now. It's only 4 houses down."
"Ok, then let's go, right Allie?" Julia said smiling at her.
His mother came over and stood next to him. She said, "Julia, I'll walk next to Nathan and keep ahold of him all the way."
"That will be great, Rebecca." Julia replied. Allie went over and hooked her arm through Julia's and grinned up at her. Nathan opened the door and out they went. Julia and Allie walked arm in arm in front, and he and his mother walked together behind.
Nathan was surprised at how slow he still moved, and they soon fell behind.
His mother looked at him, with her arm firmly hooked around his. She finally broke the silence. "Son, what's going on?"
"It's complicated, Mom." Nathan replied low.
His mom gently and quietly said, "It shouldn't be complicated. Whatever happened, whatever is going on between you two, I encourage you, Nathan, fix it. Do whatever you have to, to figure it out. Because that girl…is one of a kind."
Nathan looked at Julia, walking arm in arm with Allie chatting away happily, as if they they had known each other for years already. As he admired her beauty, he realized he even loved the back of her. She had a captivating silhouette, slender and just a little bit curvy in all the right places. Julia swayed so gracefully when she walked, sending her skirts to and fro in a way that was inherently her. And, he also loved the way she moved. She was, dare he say, alluring? He was a gentleman through and through, but if he was honest with himself, he felt feelings for her that he had never felt before.
Nathan realized his mother was still looking at him, so he sheepishly met her gaze and decided he should just tell her what happened. If anyone would understand, it would be her. So he said, "She asked me about the guitar under my bed."
"Ah. And, you froze up? Clammed up tighter than, well, a clam?" His mom asked gently.
Nathan looked down at his feet. "Yes. There are some things I don't think I can talk about yet."
His mother said gently, "Nathan, from what I can see, Julia cares about you very much. She doesn't strike me as someone who would push you to talk about anything that you aren't ready to talk about. Has she done that?" He looked back up at Julia and knew what his mother said was true. She would never push him. She would likely wait as long as it took him, in the same way he would be willing to wait for her, as long as it took, if the situation were reversed.
"No, mom, she definitely hasn't. It's just when she asked, I panicked. I felt myself closing off, but couldn't stop it." He realized they were nearing the Canfield's. "I don't know how to fix it, now."
"Son, you know her. You will figure it out. Just take your time and do it right." She paused and smiled lovingly at him, "And, look at her, son, she's still here, isn't she? She doesn't seem bothered by your job, your past, or anything else, for that matter. That means she's in it for the long haul, you can count on her." His mother was always on his side, and always saw so clearly, so he took her words to heart.
Rebecca looked at him and asked, "One more question, son. Is everything set for Allie's gift?"
"Yes, Jed will bring her at 9 p.m. sharp. He's going to knock on the door at the Canfield's." Nathan replied, and they both smiled at each other, knowing Allie was going to be surprised, again. This was a birthday she would not soon forget.
Julia turned and looked at them as they approached the steps of the Canfield's house. She said something to Allie and they waited so that Nathan and Rebecca could catch up.
As they stood there, Nathan heard two horses approaching from behind them, and they sounded almost in a race. He didn't turn for fear of hurting his side, he had already come this far and didn't want a mishap now. His mother looked back over her shoulder, and by the look on her face, it was not good. The horse hooves slowed, the riders must have seen the four of them in the road. Nathan looked forward and saw Allie's face as she looked back and knew immediately who it must be. And sure enough, as the horses passed with Lucas in the lead, Elizabeth looked back and took them all in. Her face looked shocked as she saw Julia with Allie, and Nathan with his mother, happy and walking together arm in arm.
Nathan pretended not to notice, and was surprised as he realized how little it bothered him now. In fact, he would even go as far to say that it didn't bother him one bit. He kept his eyes on Julia and Allie, his two girls, and smiled at how happy they both made him. And, truly he was.
Allie's eyes met his as they finally caught up, and he smiled happily at her. She realized he was completely unaffected by the riders that had just passed, and she smiled big back at him, proud. "Ok, Allie girl, I made it. Now I only have the stairs and then you can knock, okay?" She nodded at him.
He was up surprisingly fast and he nodded at Allie, to knock. She did so, and she heard someone call out from inside, "Come in!"
Allie thought that was strange, but she shrugged and opened the door. She walked right in, to a rush and flurry of crazed excitement.
"SURPRISE!" Allie's mouth fell open in shock and she looked over at Julia. Then she looked around the room, yes, everyone was really yelling for her. There was Opal and her mother, Emily and her mom. The Coulter's, the Canfield's, Robert, Paul and his parents Mr. and Mrs. Yost, all her friends from school, practically the whole school, actually. And there was Uncle Bill.
She looked back at her Dad and Grams, who were all smiling at her. She couldn't believe it!
"Surprise, Allie!" Angela stepped forward and said. Allie went forward to meet her and took her hands. "Welcome to your birthday party! We've been waiting on you, our guest of honor!"
Allie blushed and could hardly believe it. "All this is for me?" She asked shyly.
Angela replied, "It sure is, Allie. All for you. Happy Birthday!"
"Wow! I can't believe it." Allie said.
Julia looked back at Nathan and saw how sweetly he was watching Allie, with tears in his eyes. His eyes met Julia's just as a tear escaped, though he wiped it quickly. They both returned their gaze to Allie as she started to do something very sweet. She slowly made her way around the room, happily and excitedly greeting each person present, individually.
When his mom saw what she was doing, she leaned over and whispered to him, "She's a treasure, Nathan."
"I know, Mom. I wish Colleen could see her, how wonderful she is." Nathan said.
"Me, too, son. Me, too." She paused and smiled proudly at him, and looked him in the eye as she said, "But, Colleen owes you a big thank you. Because, it's you who contributed so much to who she is. You raised Allie to be a treasure. And, you did a great job. Don't you ever forget it."
Another tear escaped down Nathan's cheek and this time his mom quickly wiped it, before anyone could see. "And, for the record, Julia is a treasure, too. You deserve to be surrounded by treasure, my son."
"Thanks, Mom."
Allie arrived in front of the two of them and said, "Did you two know about this?"
Nathan teased her with a straight face, "Allie, whatever do you mean?"
"You can't fool me, Dad!" Allie said hugging his neck sweetly, "But, seriously…thank you."
Nathan stepped back and said, "You deserve it, Allie. You are becoming such a wonderful young lady and I'm so proud of you." She hugged him again.
Allie stepped over and hugged Grams and said, "I'm so glad you are here, Grams. I cannot tell you how special it is to me." Nathan couldn't hear what his mother whispered back, but saw she had misty eyes when she stepped back.
Minnie came to get Allie, and said, "Allie we would like to open the buffet, if you are ready, and we'd like you to go through first." Allie nodded and followed Minnie. As she started to fill her plate, Minnie tapped a glass to get everyone's attention.
Joseph stood up and said, "Good evening everyone, the buffet is open, after Allie goes through, of course. Feel free to enjoy all the goodies prepared by Allie's friends!"
Nathan mingled, and eventually made his way to the buffet. He had lost Julia in the crowd and didn't see her for a long time. She talked a while with Cat, and then Ellen, and after that, Rosemary and Lee. He filled his plate, everything looked so good, and he found a seat on the settee. Julia came by then and handed him a cup, and then was gone again. He looked inside and realized it was punch. He had missed the drinks, but she had noticed him without one.
He finally saw her going through the line, though she stood and ate with Florence and Ned. She was laughing and talking, and looked very beautiful. She had changed into a lavender dress and let her hair down, soft waves were cascading down her back. He was having a hard time keeping his eyes off of her, again.
Nathan looked over at Allie who was talking and laughing with her friends. She was beaming and happy. They were chatting, and eating. Someone would tell a story, and the rest would react. They seemed very teenager-y in their interactions with one another, and it hit him just how fast Allie was growing up. She would soon be thinking about boys, if she wasn't already. He wasn't ready for that, and certainly wasn't ready for the heartaches that could come with that season of adolescence. He noticed Allie and Emily take some more goodies from the buffet, and then return to the group for still more laughing and chatting.
Nathan got up to make a second pass at the buffet, since the food was all very good. Julia walked up as he loaded the fourth mini quiche on his plate.
"You like those, Constable?" She asked, smiling.
He was so happy to finally talk to her. "They are so good, did you try them?"
"Of course, I made them." Julia smiled at him.
"You made them. Of course you did." Nathan smiled at her, and then looked back down at the table. "What else did you make?"
"The summer peach salad, it has mint in it." She stated, pointing, "and the punch." He took some of the peach salad, then.
Nathan noticed the bouquet in the middle of the table, and eyed them as he asked, "And the flowers?"
Julia replied, "How did you know?"
"Well, your bouquets have a certain artistic flair about them. They are not just flowers bunched up and tied together, but they are thought out…" Nathan surmised.
Julia replied, "You are correct, Nathan, I did the bouquet. Though I didn't have time to go all the way up to my meadow. They are from near the church."
She took a finger sandwich, and showed it to him, "These are also really good. I love cucumber."
He decided to try, so picked one up, took a big bite, and agreed with her. "You are right, very nice, and fresh."
Rosemary suddenly tapped a glass, and invited Angela to the piano. Julia had noticed earlier today when she came in that the Canfield's had a piano, though she had not noticed on her previous house call. Rosemary announced excitedly, "Angela is going to play some music for us, and if anyone else would like to play or sing along, please join us near the piano."
Nathan looked over at Julia, and said with raised eyebrows, "Well that seems a little too coincidental."
Julia followed him over, but said, "we'll see, Constable."
Angela started playing The Entertainer by Scott Joplin. She was really good, and it brought a lot of people over to the piano. Rosemary was tapping her foot, and everyone enjoyed it immensely.
Angela then launched a rendition of Red River Valley, with Rosemary leading on vocals, and most of the group joined in singing. Next was Home on the Range.
Rosemary asked if anyone else would like to join on the piano. Julia leaned down and whispered something to Angela, who answered something back. Julia sat next to her, on the right, to work the high notes. And, together, they started playing Mozart's A Little Night Music.
Everyone enjoyed this one, and when it was finished, the group applauded while Angela and Julia whispered between themselves. Angela started playing She Wore A Yellow Ribbon, and Julia came in following Angela, and then added in some high notes. Those who knew it joined in singing, and Rosemary led everyone, completely in her element.
When that one was finished, Julia and Angela whispered between themselves again. Angela scooted over and gave place to Julia. With her eyes on Rosemary, she started playing Give My Regards to Broadway. Rosemary squealed with delight when she recognized it, and sang heartily, leading those who knew it. Angela slid round and added some extra high notes, once she got the tune of it. Everyone enjoyed it thoroughly, and Rosemary even did a little dance at the end, completely excited to sing a show tune.
When that one ended, applause erupted. Angela whispered something to Julia and scooted over to the edge of the piano bench. Julia stayed in the middle, signaling that she was going to play.
Nathan came closer and leaned on the side of the piano where he could have a better vantage point. Julia looked up at him nervously and then back down at the keys. She put her hands in place, took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and started playing. He could not take his eyes off of her, she was so expressive when she played. She started into Liebestraum No. 3 from Franz Liszt. Eventually, she opened her eyes, but stayed focus on her playing. Nathan noticed a few times she seemed to bite her bottom lip, and stumble through a tough part. But, it was so beautiful and he was captivated watching her, intent and lost in the music.
About halfway through, Rosemary stepped next to Nathan and watched her too. She whispered to Nathan, "This is one of my very favorites. It's called Liebestraum, which means Dream of Love."
When Julia finished, she sat back and sighed. Rosemary leaned over and whispered something to both Julia and Angela, and they both smiled and slid back into place for a last duet. Rosemary nodded at Minnie, who lit a candle.
Angela and Julia started playing Happy Birthday, and all the group joined in, singing boisterously to Allie. Minnie carried the cake over and stood in front of Allie, who looked around to everyone in the group, all gathered around her. When the song was almost finished, Nathan sang loudly over everyone else, to launch into another verse of it. Angela and Julia immediately caught on and followed him on the piano, and Allie blushed, a little embarrassed but still smiling. That brought a laugh from many, but Nathan continued smiling at her innocently. When it finished this time, she quickly blew out the candle, before he could start it up again.
Minnie carried the cake back over to the kitchen, and began to cut it and serve it on plates. Julia, Emily, Robert, and Opal passed out the plates to everyone. Rosemary came over to talk to Julia while they ate their cake.
"Julia, I had no idea you could play." Rosemary encouraged her.
Julia answered, "Well, I haven't played in a really long time. I'm surprised I remembered anything."
Minnie walked over and joined them. "Minnie, this cake is divine, really." Julia stated, and then added, "I love chocolate cake."
"It's Allie's favorite." Minnie stated.
"I think it's everyone's favorite." Rosemary joked.
"I think you are right." Julia stated, eating another huge bite. "How could it not be everyone's favorite?" She looked at Rosemary and they both giggled, enjoying their cake.
When everyone was finished with the cake, Angela brought Allie into the middle of the room, and sat her on the couch. The other kids brought the gifts and placed them around Allie. She started to open them, one by one. Allie received a lot of books and a few pretty journals. Rosemary gave her a lovely tea set. Ned and Florence gave her some pretty hair combs, and the Weiss' gave her a fancy fountain pen. Bill gave her a cookbook.
When Allie was finished opening gifts, she stood and said, "Thank you, everyone. I am so touched, I don't know what to say. I appreciate you all." She then went around the room and thanked everyone personally. When she had made it all the way around the room, everyone went back to mingling and talking. It was a nice party and everyone seemed to be having a great time.
About 9 p.m., there was a knock at the door.
Grams came over to Allie, and told her she should go answer. Everyone followed, curious as to what was happening. Nathan met her at the door, and opened it for her. She walked on to the porch to see Jed standing there with a beautiful palomino horse. Everyone spilled out onto the porch with her, as she stared in disbelief. Her mouth dropped open, and she turned to Nathan and said, "No way! No way!" He nodded to her and she fled down the stairs towards the horse. She turned back, looked at Grams and said, "Really?"
Grams followed her down and said, "Allie, she's really yours." Allie put out her hand to let the horse smell her, and she began petting her. They took to one another right away, and the mare nuzzled in close to Allie.
Nathan came down then and told her, "I wanted to buy you Lucy, but she's getting old now. This is one of her babies, though, and is just as gentle, but a little younger. And, she's perhaps a little more adventurous. Perfect for you."
Allie couldn't believe it, she came over and hugged Nathan. She buried her face in his chest, in fact, unable to believe this incredible day. "Dad, I don't know what to say. The whole day is…unbelievable."
"Well, it was a group effort, from lots of folks who love you. Julia mentioned your birthday to Minnie and Angela, who organized everything. Then many people pitched in, either decorations or something on the buffet table. Grams had a lot to do with your new horse. I can't take credit for much, actually." Nathan told her. "You are very loved, Allie girl. And, I am very thankful for you."
Allie went over to Grams then, and hugged her hard. She buried her head in her shoulder and thanked her over and over. She couldn't believe she had a horse, and such a beautiful one.
Allie and Grams walked over and stood with Nathan, admiring her new horse. Nathan realized that Julia was standing not far, and he looked over at her and smiled.
Allie looked up at Nathan, questioning, "Does she have a name?"
Nathan told her, "Jed's been calling her Sunflower, but you can choose any name you want."
Allie walked over and petted her some more, unable to believe she had her very own horse. Opal, Emily, Robert, and many of her school friends came over and gathered around. They all seemed to talk at once, excited for Allie. A million questions about her new horse.
Julia watched the touching scene and was very happy for Allie. After a little while, she headed back in to help clean up. Minnie and some of the ladies were already starting, so Julia joined them. Some packed up the leftover food, and some started washing and drying dishes. Julia took a dishtowel and started drying and stacking plates. Next came the silverware and then the cups. It went quick with so many pitching in.
Julia got a rag and started wiping down things. By the time everyone came back inside, the clean up was nearly finished.
Bill came over and asked if Julia would like to walk home with him again. She agreed, but just wanted to check with Minnie to make sure there wasn't any more clean up that she could help with. Minnie insisted it was almost all done, and she should go with Bill so she didn't have to walk alone.
Julia and Bill walked over to Allie, Grams, and Nathan to say their good-byes. Nathan looked at Julia so intensely, she wasn't sure she should go just yet. He seemed to have something to say. But, when he realized that Bill had offered to walk with her again, he insisted that she go, glad that she would be accompanied.
Allie hugged them both tightly and thanked them profusely. And then Rebecca said her good-byes.
Nathan walked them out to the front porch, and said, "Good night, Bill. Thanks for walking Julia home again." He turned towards Julia and said, "Sweet dreams, Jules. Will I see you tomorrow for my house call?"
Julia answered, "Yes, of course. I'll come around in the afternoon, if that's okay?"
"It's more than okay, it's great. I'm already looking forward to it." He looked at her so sweetly, she was suddenly very much looking forward to tomorrow.
Julia picked up her basket and said, "Good night, Nathan." And she and Bill walked down the steps and back towards town. She looked back over her shoulder about half way, and she could still see his outline in the doorway; he was still watching them. She shuddered in the cool night air and hoped that tomorrow, the distance between them would be no more.