Chapter 37. The Celebration
Nathan woke early. Gabe was heading home this morning, and Nathan wanted to see him off. It had been so nice to see his friend and catch up. The last time Gabe had been in town, Nathan had been recently rejected by Elizabeth, and a lot less fun to be around.
This visit, Gabe had commented on how happy Nathan seemed. Gabe also told Nathan that Julia reminded him, in some ways, of Colleen- with her positive attitude and adventurous spirit. Gabe said that Julia had an artistic and fancy-free enthusiasm that he had also liked in Colleen. Gabriel had known Nathan for a long time, and his friend's approval meant a lot.
Nathan's mind wandered to his promotion, which still seemed too good to be true. He also wanted to catch the Chief Inspector Lewis this morning, before he headed back home. Nathan preferred to accept the position in person. However, if he missed Lewis, Nathan would call into Chief Superintendent Collins this morning, to officially accept the promotion.
Nathan also had another call he wanted to make. He'd had some time to think, and he knew exactly who he would like to recommend as his replacement in Hope Valley. However, Nathan wanted this person's permission before he gave his name to Commander Collins.
Nathan got washed up, dressed and ready. He came downstairs and made coffee, and decided to drink it on the front porch. When he walked outside, the sky was so many different colors. It made him think of Julia, and that brilliant beautiful sky they had seen together at the overlook, so long ago. So many things reminded him of Julia these days, would it always be like this? Even throughout his day, when things happened, good or bad, he was anxious to tell her about it. And, every day, he waited impatiently for the afternoon when her soft tap-tap-tap would sound on his door.
When he finally went back inside, his Mom and Allie were both up. He ate breakfast with them and then returned to the porch to wait for Lee. Lee came by right on time, and Nathan met Gabe in front of the Mountie office.
Chief Inspector Lewis was inside the office, packing up some last minute items. Nathan was happy he hadn't missed him. He walked in and said, "Good morning, Chief Inspector. How was your stay in Hope Valley?"
"Good morning, Constable Grant. It's a nice little town you have here." Lewis said. "I enjoyed my stay very much, thank you."
"Chief Inspector, I have considered the offer of promotion. And, I would like to officially accept the position of Inspector Instructor." Nathan said.
Lewis smiled, and was glad. "That's good news, Grant. I'll carry your acceptance back to the Chief Superintendent. He should be in touch next week, to begin working out details."
"I'll be here." Nathan replied. "Sir, thank you so much for the opportunity." Nathan said, extending his hand.
"You are welcome, Grant. Hard work should always be rewarded." Lewis said, with a firm hand shake and a nod.
Nathan nodded back and headed back outside to Gabe.
"Old friend, it was such an unexpected treat to have you here." Nathan stated. "Please don't take so long before coming back again."
"And, you, Nathan. You should bring those two girls of yours to see us in Brookfield. I know they would love to have you at the orphanage. Come and see us sometime." Gabe replied.
"We'll come as soon as I'm cleared to ride again, Gabe. We are definitely overdue for a visit. And, Julia would like your little town." Nathan said.
Gabe extended his hand and said, "Nathan, I'm happy for you, friend. Keep me updated, a call or a letter once in a while."
Nathan shook his hand and said, "That goes for you too. Drop me a line once in a while."
Gabe loaded the last items into his saddle bags and swung up onto his horse.
One last tip of the hat and salute to Nathan, and Gabe was on his way.
Lewis came out of the office next, and placed his last items into his saddlebags. He came over to Nathan and extended his hand, one more time. "Grant, take care of yourself. And we'll talk soon."
"Thank you, Chief Inspector. I look forward to working with you and Commander Collins." Nathan said as they shook hands again. They both saluted each other, and Lewis mounted his horse. As he departed, Nathan watched him go, not believing the way things were looking up, yet again.
Nathan entered the Mountie office. It seemed so strange to be in there after so long. He took a seat at his desk, realizing that it might not be his desk much longer.
He looked in the drawers and found everything just as he had left it. He sat there a minute thinking of the phone call he wanted to make. He knew exactly who he wanted to replace him in Hope Valley. But, Nathan wasn't sure the person would want to relocate. Nathan knew the only thing would be to ask. So, he picked up the phone and took a deep breath. Florence came on the line and sang, "Hope Valley Exchange."
Nathan replied, "Good morning, Florence. I need to place an important call, on official Mountie business." Nathan said, hoping it would discourage Florence from listening in.
"Where to, Constable?" Florence asked.
"Can you please connect me to the office of the North-West Mounted Police in Spruce Grove, Alberta?" Nathan stated.
Florence replied, "Right away, Nathan. Please, hold the line."
After Nathan finished his phone call, he walked out onto the porch of the Mountie office, like old times. If felt so strange to stand there, as he had done so many times over the last four years. He realized he might have to relinquish this, his spot, to someone else. He would need to find a classroom and an office elsewhere. As he looked down at the worn-out wood under his feet, where his boots had added their fair share of wear, he frowned.
Nathan would need to talk to Bill to see if he had any ideas for a classroom and office, but first he wanted to go see someone across the street. He crossed over and walked up to the infirmary door. He was just about to enter when he heard her voice behind him.
"Excuse me, Lawman, do you have an appointment?" Nathan turned to see Julia walking up to him.
He smiled big at her little flirtation and noticed how lovely she looked. She hadn't put her nurses apron yet and the crisp white waistcoat really brought out the rosiness of her cheeks and the blue of her eyes.
"Pardon me, Ma'am, it seems I forgot to make an appointment. But I really need to see the nurse. She's the only cure for what's ailing me." He teased her. He looked down with his crooked smile and her heart melted.
"Well, she's very busy today. I'll have to see if she can work you in." She said, titling her head just a little and smiling up at him.
"Maybe for a little coffee or a walk to the livery?" He suggested. He leaned forward and whispered, "I don't care where we go, you see, just as long as I get to be with you."
That revelation made Julia's stomach do flip flops, and she smiled shyly. "Let me go check with my boss, and see how long she can spare me. I'm on Founder's Day set up this afternoon, and still have your house call." But, suddenly an idea donned on her. "Speaking of that, Nathan, how are you getting back home?"
"You mean this morning?" Nathan asked.
"Yes." Julia said.
"I'm to go by the mill office when I'm done in town and Lee will drive me home." Nathan stated.
"Do you have a lot more to do in town?" Julia asked and he saw her train of thought.
"I only need to see Bill and you." He smiled.
"Well, then I have a suggestion. Why don't you go see Bill now, and then come back to the infirmary when you are ready to go home. And, I can walk you there? It could count as your walk for the day. You did so well yesterday, I'm sure you could make it. And one-way home is probably just a tad longer than the round trip we did yesterday. We can stop by the livery or the café, on the way, whichever you prefer?" Julia looked at him to see his response.
"And I can take my time walking?" Nathan said, with a mischievous smile, "walk as slow as I want?"
Julia giggled, and answered, "You are incorrigible, but I can't say no to you. Yes, we can take our time. I need to run it by Faith, though."
"Ok. I'll sit here." He said and sat down on the bench outside the infirmary, like he wasn't leaving until he knew he could see her. She imitated Allie and rolled her eyes at his cute insistence, and went in to talk to Faith.
About 2 minutes later, Julia came back out. Nathan stood and she said. "Good news, Faith agrees it's a great idea to try a one-way walk from town to your house. And, we are not too busy today, so she can spare me. Can you come back after you see Bill?"
"Sure thing, Jules." He said, and gave her a big smile as he walked down the stairs towards Bill's office.
Nathan's stayed about half an hour with Bill discussing classroom options and office space, and their availability in Hope Valley. The first option could be a great one, apparently the Mountie office had an upstairs. It had been boarded off from the downstairs and used for storage for years. Then, because of disrepair had not been used at all. Even Bill had never seen it, and had no idea what kind of shape it was in. But, it had a separate entrance from the back, and should be considered. Bill would find out how to get inside, to look at it.
They came up with two other good ideas, spaces that might be ready right away, though Nathan would need to talk with the owners and view the spaces. They both thought he could continue to work out of the Mountie office for now. They weren't sure how fast the new Mountie would be posted and arrive, and it would be a little while before Nathan would be fully back on his feet. But two could work in there, for a little while at least. Bill also offered to share his office for a little while. However, Nathan comically rejected that idea right away, stating how unappealing that proposal was, because of all the times Bill had taken over his desk in the Mountie office.
Nathan shared with Bill who he had called this morning, about replacing him. Bill agreed it would be a great fit, for both of them and Hope Valley. They both hoped the response would be favorable, Nathan should have an answer within a week. Though, Nathan asked Bill to keep it under his hat, for now.
When Nathan headed back to the infirmary, he had a spring in his step. Lately, it seemed like he and Julia only saw each other for house calls. He wanted for them to go on their dates, or at least make time to be together which was not focused on his care. And, he wanted to eventually share his feelings with her. He had so much he wanted to say, but something always seemed to get in the way. He longed for some alone time with her.
As he entered the infirmary, Faith was sitting at the desk and Julia putting something away in the cabinet. "Good morning, ladies." He said.
"Good morning, Nathan. You are looking well. And as I hear, better and better everyday." Faith said.
"Yes, I'm definitely on the way up." He said. "Thanks to both of you."
"Thanks mostly to Julia, as of late." Faith stated.
"Yes." Nathan said simply as he looked at Julia. She just smiled and met his gaze. Faith looked back and forth between them and realized how serious this relationship had gotten. The way they looked at each other was so charged, there was no denying it.
Julia walked over to him and said, "Are you ready for your walk home?"
"Yes." He said again, still fixed on her.
She giggled and asked him, "Are you going to say anything other than yes?"
He smiled again and said, "Yes."
Julia giggled again and said, "Ok, Prince Charming, let's go." And she started for the door.
Nathan stopped just before the door and said, "Thanks for sparing her, Faith. See you tomorrow at the festival, I hope."
Faith answered, "Yes." and giggled too. Finally she added, "Have a good walk, Nathan."
He said, "Yes," one more time, chuckled at Faith, and followed Julia out.
As soon as they got outside, she asked, playfully, "So where you takin' me, Lawman?"
"To the livery, if that's okay with you?" Nathan said, "The café seems crowded."
She nodded and he reached down and took her hand. He smiled at her and said, "for security."
Julia nodded again and smiled at him, happy to oblige. She loved the feeling of her hand in his strong one. Her fingers fit perfectly intertwined with his, even though his hand was larger. Somehow, she felt so safe and protected when they were touching, no matter if it were his arm on her shoulders, or their hands woven together. She just loved when they were connected.
They walked down the stairs and into the street towards the livery. Anyone out on the street could see them walking together and holding hands, but neither one minded. As they passed the barbershop, Lucas came out the door, took them in, and smiled. Nathan didn't flinch and kept right on walking, giving him a little nod, and smiling down at Julia.
When they got to the livery, they went to Newton's stall first. When he saw Nathan, Newton came right over. He nuzzled and smelled him, and neighed happily. Nathan moved to his side to pet him firmly, just how he liked. Newton greeted Julia next and snuggled into her chest, which made Julia laugh shyly. She moved to his other side and stroked him firmly. Newton was enjoying himself immensely, as the center of attention.
"You are spoiled rotten today, aren't you, boy?" Nathan spoke to Newton. "You deserve it. Has Bill been taking good care of you?"
Newton stomped happily again, and Nathan laughed, seeming to understand him.
Julia said, looking over Newton's back at Nathan, "He's missed you, Nathan."
Nathan grinned at her, "And I, him." He stroked him and said, "Right, boy? We'll be back together soon. You need to sweet talk Jules into clearing me to ride soon."
Julia laughed and said, "Sadly, that one's not up to me. Newton will need to sweet talk Faith."
Nathan nodded and said, "I'm guessing I've still got a while yet?"
Julia tilted her head as she came around Newton to face Nathan. "Well, as soon as you can walk to the infirmary for check ups, I'm assuming we will go down to checks every other day, then every 3 to 4 days. Probably for another two weeks or so. And then, according to the swelling and the sensitivity of your ribs, we'll go from there. You could be back riding in a few weeks, if all goes well."
Nathan was happy to hear that. But, one thing bothered him. "When we change the schedule frequency, I don't think I will be able to wait 3 or 4 days to see you, Jules."
"Well then, you will just have to come up with excuses to see me." Julia said, playfully.
He looked at her and wiped away a hair that was near her eye. "I can do that."
Julia clarified, "Just please, come up with excuses that don't involve you getting hurt."
He chuckled low and said, "I'll try."
They stayed with Newton a while longer and then went to see Sunflower. Nathan had managed to get the stall next to Newton for her, so they could get used to each other. She was also a very beautiful horse.
Julia petted her and said, "You sure know how to pick great horses, Nathan."
"You should get your own horse one day, too, Jules." He said
"You think so?" Julia asked.
"It's part of frontier life." He smiled at her. "And, if it's always been a dream of yours…"
She smiled at Sunflower and imagined having her own horse. "That would be a dream come true." Julia said, looking over at him.
Nathan was curious, "What kind of horses do you like?"
"If I could pick any kind of horse, you mean?" Julia asked. "Because I don't know much about the different breeds."
"Yes, if you could pick any kind?" Nathan asked.
"I would have to say a paint horse." Julia smiled, "That's the breed that's so magnificent with all the spots right? That look like splotches of paint on them?"
Nathan smiled big. He loved paint horses, too. In fact, he had one back in Airdrie. "You are right, paint horses are magnificent. I had one growing up. His name was Dakota. We still have a few of his offspring at the ranch. And, I usually ride one of them when I'm home, a stallion named Domino."
"Really?" Julia smiled. "I can't believe you had a paint horse. Do you have a picture of him?"
Nathan shook his head no. "No, I don't. Maybe Mom does somewhere, but we didn't have many cameras in Airdrie when I was young." But maybe sometime in the future he should take her to the ranch. "Maybe one day, I'll just have to take you there."
She loved that idea and her face showed it. She answered very quietly, "I would love to see where you grew up."
"I would love that, too. And I have to say, Jules, you have great taste in horses." He said, smiling, obviously impressed by her. "Are you any good at naming horses? Because this girl still needs a name."
Julia answered, "Well, that's not for me to decide."
"But, what would you call her if you were naming her?" Nathan asked.
"Well, I do like Beauty. And Daisy. But, I also like Ginger. Just because of her coloring." Julia stated, still petting her.
"Ginger." He repeated. "I like that, too. You should mention it to Allie."
"Nathan, it's for Allie to decide. I don't want to interfere." Julia grinned at him.
"But, I feel like she needs a little inspiration to find the right name." Nathan said.
"I'll think about it." Julia said, timidly.
Jed came in, ready to muck out Sunflower's stall, so they decided to head out on the rest of their walk.
When they got back on the path towards Nathan's house, he looked down at her walking hand in hand next to him.
Nathan said, "Jules, on Wednesday, we got interrupted by Gabe, and you didn't get to ask your question. Would you like to ask it now, as we walk?"
Julia smiled up at him and said, "Sure." She paused for a moment, remembering what she had intended to ask on Wednesday. She decided to just stick with it. "Nathan, I don't want to touch on anything sensitive. But, you have talked a few times about Colleen. And, I was wondering if you wouldn't mind sharing with me about Allie's father. What happened to him?"
Nathan's brow furrowed and he looked at the ground. When Julia saw his face, she decided to give him a way out. She whispered, "You don't have to tell me if you'd rather not. Nathan, really. I can pick another question."
Nathan's face gentled and he looked over at her, "No, it's better if you know. Just in case he would ever show up here again." He paused and looked off in the distance. He decided the best was just to start at the beginning. "Dylan was a deadbeat from the first day he showed up. He started coming around calling on Colleen, trying to act like he had it together, but he wasn't fooling anyone. Mom and I saw right through his act, and Colleen did too. But, she fell in love with him and thought he would change."
Nathan explained, "Colleen always saw the best in everybody. She chose to believe the best. So, even when she knew his faults, she thought he would change. But he wasn't the kind to change. Mom and I told her, but she wouldn't hear it." He paused, seeming to become a little bit angry, "She ran off with him one weekend, and came back a week later, married. After that, Mom and I made the decision to respect their union as a married couple and hope for the best. We never spoke out against Dylan again, and we tried to support them as much as possible."
Nathan continued, "But, shortly after they were married, he started his get-rich schemes. He tried everything to make money, except get a solid job. If it weren't for Colleen and her paintings, which she sold for a good price, they wouldn't have had any food in the house. She did portraits and commissioned pieces, and managed to keep them from getting evicted."
Nathan shared, "Just before Allie turned 4, Colleen had had enough. They had a huge fight, and Dylan ran off. Colleen waited almost 3 weeks, but he never come back. So, she packed up and went home to Airdrie, to the ranch and to Mom. We never heard from Dylan again, until after Colleen died. He came around trying to get money, but Mom and I ran him off. I kept tabs on him through the Mounties, he was in and out of jail for the next 7 or 8 years."
They had arrived now in front of Nathan's house, so they sat on the front steps. Nathan kept her hand in his, and continued. "Dylan showed up here nearly two years ago, to blackmail me. Just another one of his schemes to swindle money." He kept hold of Julia's hand but looked hesitant to continue. He was worried about her reaction. "So, I did something I'm not very proud of." He looked at her to see her reaction before going on. She looked unfazed, so he kept going. "I set up a meeting with him. Though, I knew he was setting a trap for me." He paused, "Remember how I said I'd been beaten up a few times?"
She nodded.
"Well, that was one of those times." Nathan admitted.
"Dylan beat you up and robbed you? Or you let him, intentionally?" Julia asked, shocked.
"I let him." He said, "To protect Allie."
"Intentionally?" She couldn't believe it. "Were you hurt?"
"No, not really. He knocked me out and ran Newton off, though my faithful horse came back for me." Nathan said.
"And then you arrested him, legally?" She asked.
"Exactly. He's in prison now." Nathan said.
"For how long?" She asked.
"A few more years at least. Assaulting an officer, robbery, and blackmail." He said.
"You are incredible, Nathan. I can't believe you would do all that to protect Allie." She said.
"Wouldn't you?" He asked.
"Yes." Julia admitted, looking down at the ground in front of her, and then back up at him. "I would. Without question."
Nathan sat quiet for a minute, happy that she didn't think any less of him. Happy that her hand was still in his, that they were still so sweetly connected.
Finally, Julia asked, "So, Dylan could still come back again. I mean, he knows where Allie is now?"
"Yes, but I have a line on him. If he were to be released, I would know about it. And, he has still some time yet to go on his sentence." Nathan said. "Dylan signed over all his parental rights now, so he has no more claim on Allie. She's mine, adopted officially and that can't be undone."
Julia nodded and looked somber for a few minutes. She looked out across the field and tried to process all that.
After a while, Julia spoke very quietly as she looked over at him, "You will let me know if he's released? So I can help watch out for Allie?"
"Yes." Nathan said, but looked at her very serious, "But you are in no way allowed to put yourself in harm's way. Only I'm allowed to do that."
Julia looked at him and swallowed hard. She nodded obediently but hoped it would never come to that. She looked down at their hands interlocked together and felt for him, for all that he had endured to take care of Allie. He was a father in the truest sense of the word.
She looked back up at him, and just took him in. All of him, all of who he was, all that he'd done to protect and look after those he loved, all the sacrifices he'd made as a father, and she was undone. Tears sprang to her eyes and she blinked them back. He saw and pulled her over and into his embrace. She willingly went, glad to find shelter in the hollow of his chest. In her place. She stayed a long time and when she pulled back, she was aware of the time.
He saw too and knew she was overdue to get back. He stood and pulled her up with him. "You need to get going, Jules." He said.
She nodded and looked down at their hands. She didn't want to go. But, she knew she needed to. "I'll be back tonight, for dinner."
He smiled and was happy about that. "Jules, are you planning to go tomorrow to the Founder's day festivities? Could we go together?"
"Faith and Fiona asked me to go with them, but I haven't given them an answer yet. I wanted to see what you, Allie, and your mother were planning." Julia smiled at him.
Nathan said, "Maybe we can all meet up there, and enjoy the festivities together?"
"That sounds great. I'm sure Faith and Fiona will be up for it. I'll run it by them, and we can talk about it tonight." She concluded. She started to back up and said, "See you tonight, Lawman?"
He slowly let go of her hand, "See you tonight, Jules."
Julia turned and started back to town. When she looked over her shoulder before the turn to town, he was still watching her. She gave him a little wave and then hurried to the infirmary. She had been gone a long time.
At 1 p.m., Julia met a large crew in the center of town for the Founder's Day set-up. When she walked up, Allie came bounding over.
"Hello, Miss Matthews!" Allie sang out as she hugged her. With her were Emily and Opal.
"Hello, girls. Are you excited for Founder's Day?" Julia asked.
"We were most excited about finishing school at noon." Allie giggled, Emily and Opal giggled too. "But, tomorrow will be fun. And, tomorrow night there is a dance, Miss Matthews!"
"Yes, I read that in the Valley Voice last week." Julia said.
Rosemary stood up front, and quieted everyone so she could make some announcements. First, she asked everyone to get into teams of 4 to 5 people. She then announced that either she or Elizabeth would come around and give everyone jobs. The wooden frames of the booths had already been set up this morning. At each booth location, the box of materials had already been delivered, so all that needed to be done now, was to set it up.
Allie immediately grabbed Julia, Emily, and Opal to make a team. When Rosemary approached, she smiled.
"Well don't you girls make a nice team?" Rosemary said. She read through her list and said, "Why don't you all take the set-up of the face painting booth?"
They all nodded their heads and Julia said, "Sure thing, Rosemary."
Rosemary marked their names down on her list, and moved on to the next team.
The girls walked around until they found the booth with the box of materials marked, "face painting booth". Allie opened the box and they got to work. Inside was a nice curtain, and materials to make a sign. Julia spotted the face paints and brushes and a lot of other nice decorations. They worked together and made it look nice. When they stood back though, it was missing something. There was a wooden marquee at the top of the booth, but it was blank.
Julia walked around and found Mike Hickam, who was helping Rosemary. "Hi, Mike. I'm working on the face painting booth, and I have a good idea of how to make it look more inviting. But, I need some more materials. Is there any paint?"
Mike motioned for her to follow him, and took her onto the porch in front of Rosemary's office. There were crates on the porch, filled with supplies for Founder's Day. "You can use anything you find in here, Julia."
"Thanks, Mike. I'll see what I can find." Julia said. She had to go through a few crates, but finally found some simple paints, as well as some brushes. She carried everything back over to the booth, where the girls were waiting.
"Ok, girls. We need to spice up the booth a little bit. What do you say we add a pretty sign up top?" Julia said, pointing to the marquee.
They all said yes and were very excited to do some painting. Julia took out a piece of paper from the face painting box, and a lead pencil and sketched a model. "What do you girls think about this?" Julia asked them.
"Wow, Miss Matthews. You can paint that?" Allie asked. The others agreed, it would be really nice.
"Well, not just me, but all of you. We can work together. First, I will sketch it up there, so all you girls have to do is fill in the lines with color." She said. They all agreed, eager and excited. Julia went back to Rosemary's porch to fetch a ladder she saw there, and got to work on the sketch.
Once the sketch was done, she showed them which colors went where, and marked initials to help them remember. The three girls climbed to various heights on the ladder and started painting. Julia started to sketch another design on the bottom of the booth. She placed initials there too, indicating colors, took out a brush and started painting also. When they were all done, it looked really good.
Allie stood back, shocked that they had painted something so nice. "Miss Matthews, it's amazing." She titled her head and said, "But, It's missing something."
"You are correct, Allie. I need to come back and add black outlines in some areas, and gray shading in others. For depth and dimension, and to make the colors pop." Julia smiled, seeing Allie's eye for art.
Julia opened the black and took a thinner brush and got to work. She came back over next with some gray, and then decided to add some white in some places, too. She did the same for the painting on the bottom. When the girls stood back now and admired their creation, it was amazing.
"We did that?" Opal asked.
"You sure did, girls. And, you did a great job." Julia said. As they were all standing there admiring it, Rosemary and Elizabeth were walking by. When they looked over and saw the booth, they both stopped in their tracks, both their mouths gaping open.
On the top marquee of the booth, they had painted a beautiful garland of flowers. Inside certain petals were pretty bubble letters that were strung together to say, "Fabulous Face Painting". The letters seemed to jump off the marquee and to be floating. The garland of flowers continued down on either side. On the bottom of the booth, they had painted a beautiful wooden painter's palette, containing many different vivid dollops of paint, some in the process of being mixed. Next to it, was a water can with brushes sticking out of it, and water splashed out. Everything looked so stylish and artistic, and so real.
Rosemary giggled and said, "Wow, you girls did that?" Elizabeth was looking at them, and at Julia, and then back at the painting, then back at the girls.
"Well, Julia drew it out first, we just painted the colors where they go." Emily said.
Rosemary looked at Julia, flabbergasted. "Julia, this is incredible. You did this?"
Julia nodded shyly. "The girls and I thought the booth needed a little sprucing up."
Rosemary responded. "Well, I'll say, you did some sprucing up, all right. Want to see if any other booths need a little sprucing?"
Julia looked at her team and said, "What do you say, team? Shall we try another?"
"Yes! Count us in!" Allie said, while the other girls agreed.
First though, they finished setting up all the items that were inside the face painting crate. Then they packed their paints into the empty crate, and headed to the next booth.
At the next booth, Robert was working with Paul, Joe, Jesse, and Lucas on the ring toss booth. When they saw the girls approaching, they looked puzzled. Allie explained everything, and the guys were excited to have some added color at their booth. Julia climbed up on the ladder, and drew a pencil design, and the girls got to work. Julia started working on the down part of the booth, and then got to work painting too.
As they were working, the boys worked behind the booth. Since the booth was rather crowded between the boys setting up and the girls painting, Lucas and Jesse were standing out in front talking. When Elizabeth saw them, she came over and got onto them, especially Lucas, for standing around. Julia thought surely she was kidding around, but when she looked up, she realized Elizabeth was serious.
Lucas and Jesse tried to find some way to busy themselves, but they didn't do it fast enough for Elizabeth's taste. She came back a few minutes later barking orders at them. The look on Lucas' face was pure embarrassment. Julia noticed several of the children exchange glances between themselves, all looking rather uncomfortable. After Elizabeth left, Julia didn't look up from her work. She felt horrible for Lucas, and didn't want him to feel any more embarrassed.
They all returned to painting, pretending not to notice Lucas' long face. When the fill-in was done, Julia came back with the black outline, then the gray shading, and then the white. Julia took the time to explain each step to Allie, as she was very interested in this part of the process. When they were done, the boys came out and said, "Wow! This looks amazing!"
When Lucas and Jesse stood back, they were also impressed. On the top marquee they had painted a fleet of boats on the water. On the sails of the boat were the lovely bubble letters, that popped out, and spelled "Radical Ring toss". On the bottom of the booth were milk bottles, perfectly arranged for ring toss, and a messy pile of rings. Everything was so artistic and abstract, that the effect was beautiful.
The girls packed up their paints, and moved on to the next booth. So it went until they had completed about 4 booths in all. Sadly, they ran out of paints and time. But, each one they did was lovely and artistic, and added a flair to the booths for the festival.
The girls packed up what was left, and returned to Rosemary. Julia went into the infirmary to rinse the brushes. She took them into her apartment and cleaned them in her water basin. She took them back outside and left them to dry on the lid of a crate on the porch of Rosemary's office.
As Julia was finishing all the packing and arranging, she witnessed another exchange between Elizabeth and Lucas, from her vantage point on the porch. Luckily this time, only a few of her students were present to witness it. However, Julia was surprised how harsh and demanding Elizabeth was acting, especially to someone she was supposed to be in a courtship with. Julia decided to give Elizabeth the benefit of the doubt, sure that all of the planning and organizing meant a lot of stress.
Julia finally tracked Rosemary down to ask if there was anything else that needed to be done. Julia still needed to put finishing touches on a cake she'd made for tonight, and get ready. Her arms and hands were covered in paint.
When she found Rosemary, there was more to do, but plenty of hands to do it. So, Rosemary told Julia to go on home and wash up. Julia said good bye to Allie, Emily, and Opal, and headed back to the infirmary. When she came in, Faith was at the desk reading. When Faith saw Julia's hands, she laughed. Julia headed into her apartment and washed up well with white spirits. When she came back, she sat with Faith a while to see if there was anything more to be done at the infirmary. There wasn't. Julia looked at the clock then and realized she would need to hurry to make it on time to Nathan's.
When Julia approached Nathan's, he was sitting out on the front porch waiting for her again. He began to chuckle when he saw her. She was pushing a wheelchair, with a box and then a basket on the seat.
When Julia got close enough, she saw he was chuckling at her. She must have been a funny sight with the wheelchair, box, and basket. She teased him, "Don't laugh, or you don't get any of what's in the box."
That made him curious, so Nathan stood and started to walk towards her, determined to see what was in the box. "No, no, no, you are not allowed to look, Lawman. It's a surprise." She said as she swatted his hands away.
When she arrived at the bottom of his steps, she protected her box. He came over and made like he was saying a proper hello, but she knew instantly he was trying to work his way near the box. She put her index finger on his chest, holding him back as he tried to advance, and said, "You are just trying to get to my box!"
He smiled playfully at her, and relented, "Ok. You got me, Jules. Wouldn't it be so much easier to tell me what's in the box?"
Julia handed him the basket, and picked up the box herself, making sure it stayed tightly shut. Then she slighted her eyes and said smartly, "It might be easier, but that would be a lot less fun." And she turned, went up the stairs and into the house, straight to the kitchen with her box. The table was set and ready, and everything looked lovely.
When she came back out to get the wheelchair, he was still standing there.
She looked at him sweetly and said, "Now you can try your proper hello, Lawman."
He chuckled at her once more, and leaned down and kissed her cheek. Julia hadn't been ready for such a gesture, and when the butterflies took off inside her stomach, she blushed pink. She looked up at him a little bit shocked, and he took her hand.
Julia helped him up and inside, and when they entered she realized he was still holding her basket. She took it from him, and set it down near the door. Nathan went over and sat on the couch.
Julia returned outside and carried the wheelchair in, and left it by the door. When she came to the kitchen, she realized what they were talking about. Allie had obviously been discussing the incident between Lucas and Elizabeth at the set-up this afternoon, with her Grams.
Julia decided to avoid this one, and came over and sat with Nathan. He looked at her, though, and asked, "Is it true what Allie says, was there an incident today between Lucas and Elizabeth, in front of the school children?"
Julia pursed her lips, not wanting to upset him, but knowing she couldn't keep anything from him. "Yes. There was an incident. I thought she was teasing him at first, even flirting, as you and I might have done with each other. But, she was completely serious when she told him off." Julia paused, "Next, while Allie, Opal, Emily, and I were painting, she came over and commanded Lucas, right in front of her students. They all seemed very uncomfortable." She looked down at the floor and then back up at him, "Honestly, I couldn't believe how well Lucas handled it. He took it like a champ. He must really love her, because he didn't answer back at all. Not one word."
Nathan didn't look happy to learn all of this. Julia concluded, "I could not ever imagine talking to anyone like that. Let alone someone I was in a courtship with." Julia looked back up at him, "But, I don't presume to know anything about her, nor what she's been through."
Nathan nodded, and looked at the floor. "My only concern is the children who witnessed it. I won't address it, but I hope someone does."
Julia smiled at him, "Perhaps Lucas will have a private conversation with her. He should certainly stand up for himself."
Nathan thought of the time Elizabeth had yelled at him in the street, in front of everyone. He hadn't stood up for himself, even if he had equaled her in tone and volume. He should have called her out right then, but he had been too convinced she cared about him, to do so. "You know, when a man is enamored with a lady, she could probably talk to him just about any way she wants, and he would take it. We men aren't always so tough when our hearts are involved."
Julia looked at him and said, serious, "Maybe that's true, but Nathan, I could never talk to you like that. And, I can't imagine for a minute, that you wouldn't stand up for yourself." She paused, and then said very quietly, "Please always tell me if I ever make you uncomfortable. I give you permission."
Nathan smiled at her, and took her hand in his. "Thanks, Jules. And, the same goes for you, please always tell me if I upset you." He paused, and then her words caught up with him. "Back up for just a minute, did you say you were painting?"
Allie heard Nathan's question, and came over to brag on her. "Yes, we painted. Dad, you will not believe what we did. Julia drew it out and showed us what to do. It is amazing. I can't wait for you to see!"
Nathan looked at her with pride, and said, "I can't wait, either. What time are we going to the festival tomorrow?" He looked at both of them. "And, who's pushing me in that thing over there?"
Allie saw the wheelchair then, and giggled. "I can push you, Dad."
"And, we can meet you in the center of town. In front of the face painting booth. The first one we painted, Allie knows which one." Julia said with a wink at Allie. "Can we meet at 11 a.m.?"
"You've got yourself a date, Miss Matthews." Nathan smiled at her, with a little wink back.
Allie asked her, "Are you going to the dance tomorrow night, Miss Matthews?"
"I don't know, Allie. I haven't been asked yet." Julia teased, looking at Nathan as she said it.
"Dad! Are you kidding? You didn't ask her?" Allie said, with a fake shocked face, teasing him.
He suddenly looked very uncomfortable and said. "Well, Allie, I can't really dance right now."
Just then there was a knock at the door, so Allie went and opened to Bill. "Uncle Bill!" Allie said, hugging him.
"Good evening, Bill." Julia said.
"Sorry I'm running late, I got stuck on a call in my office." Bill said.
"Don't even think twice about it, Bill." Rebecca said as she came in from the kitchen.
Allie giggled, "Bill, you are just in time to talk about the dance tomorrow night."
Bill pursed his lips and asked, "Have you been talking to Molly?"
Allie raised her eyebrows and replied, "No. Why? You aren't taking Molly?"
"No, I'm not taking anyone. And, I'm not sure I'm even going. She's been driving me crazy though, trying to drop hints and get me to ask her." Bill said. "She thinks I don't know what she's doing with her little hints. She forgets I'm an investigator and a judge!" That brought a chuckle out of Nathan, and a fit of giggles from Allie.
"Well, Uncle Bill, you could just ask her. That might solve your problem." Allie said, looking right at Nathan. Bill made a sour face, knowing that Allie was probably right.
Rebecca looked at Bill, and then at Nathan, and said, "That seems like very good advice, Allie."
"Well, if this debate is over, I'd love to invite you all to the table. Everything's ready."
They all stood and headed to the table, though Julia and Allie went into the kitchen to help Rebecca bring everything over.
They all sat down, held hands, and Rebecca asked if she could say the blessing. She gave thanks for Nathan's big promotion, and asked the Lord's blessing upon their celebration together, and the food.
There was such a big feast, they passed the dishes around family style, and everyone served themselves.
Julia said, "Rebecca, everything looks amazing."
Nathan added, "Mom, you went all out. It smells so good." Allie agreed, filling her plate.
Nathan asked, "How did the festival set up go in the center of town?"
Allie reported, "Very well. School let out at noon, so we could all help. I got to be on a team with Julia, Emily, and Opal. We set up the face painting booth, and then painted some of the others."
Bill said, "I saw a lot of booths when I walked through town. Everything seems all set up and ready."
"Uncle Bill, did you see some of the colorful paintings?" Allie asked.
"I did. At least, I saw the ones on the ring toss, and bean bag booth. Someone is really talented." Bill said.
Allie smiled big and said, "That was our team! And, it's Julia whose really talented."
Bill said, "Well, I can't wait to see more of your work, Julia."
Julia looked embarrassed and a little shy. When she was with the girls today, she hadn't thought twice about painting. But, painting on canvas was a whole other story. And, showing anyone her work still felt nearly impossible.
Julia just nodded and said, "Maybe sometime, Bill." He understood and nodded back. He remembered what Julia had shared with him when they'd had dinner together in the kitchen of the café. The fact that she had painted again was a major step for her, even if it was simply on some festival booths.
Bill looked over at Nathan and decided to change the subject. They were here to celebrate Nathan's promotion, so perhaps this should be the topic of conversation. So, Bill asked, "Do you know when your new position will start, Nathan?"
Nathan replied, "I officially accepted it this morning, before Lewis left. He said Chief Superintendent Collins would be in touch next week. So, I might be in the office some next week, talking through details with him. And, as long as I can sit at a desk, I can probably get started on some of the research for the revision of the Tracking Manual."
Bill chuckled, "Did you mention to Rosemary that you are going to update her Dad's old tracking manual?"
Nathan smiled at the thought. Jean-Jaques Leveaux was a legend in tracking among the Mounties. "No, I haven't had the chance yet. But, I hope to catch her this weekend at some of the Founder's Day festivities."
Rebecca added, "What a small world. Nathan, you will be rewriting something that Rosemary's dad wrote over 25 years ago."
Rebecca passed all the serving bowls around, so that everyone could take seconds.
Nathan looked up from his plate, after taking seconds of just about everything. "Allie, Julia and I went by the livery today."
Allie smiled, "You did? Did you see Sunflower, or whatever her name is?"
Nathan laughed at that, and said, "Yes we did. She seems to get along with Newton well now. So, as soon as we are able, we can take them on rides together."
Rebecca piped in, "Well, do you ladies still want to ride on Sunday?" She was looking at Allie and Julia hoping they could all three go together.
Julia smiled and said, "I would love to."
Allie said, "Count me in. I can't wait to take Sunflower for a ride."
Rebecca said, "I can ride Newton like last time, so we can get them on the trail together, Allie. And, we can ask Jed for Lucy, for Julia."
Allie looked so excited. She couldn't wait to ride her new horse. And, to get her on the trail with Newton would be wonderful. That way, when Nathan was better, they would already be familiar with each other.
Nathan said sadly, "I have to admit, I'm jealous. That's going to make for a very nice afternoon of riding."
Allie and his mother collected the plates, and Julia helped. The three of them worked in the kitchen, washing up and drying, while Bill and Nathan sat at the table and talked.
They were going to have their pick of desserts again. Bill had brought a cherry pie, and Rebecca and Allie had made a banana cake. Julia took her dessert out of the box, the one she had protected from Nathan. It was a chocolate cake, of course. They brought all three desserts to the table, and he looked very excited.
When he saw Julia's chocolate cake, he smiled very contentedly at her. He said, "I can't wait for that one!" Julia smiled and hoped he would like it.
When they were all seated, Bill made a few hip hip hooray's for Nathan and his promotion. Then, Rebecca said a few words of congratulations.
Then Allie spoke up. "Dad, I'm so proud of you. Your depth of character and your hard work is what brought you this promotion. You are a good example to me, and everyone who knows you. I'm so thankful for you. I love you." Nathan's eyes were misty as Allie came over and gave him a hug.
Nathan kept hold of Allie around her waist, but said, "Thank you all very much. I appreciate your kind words. I don't know what to say."
Rebecca said, "Say yes to another assiette gourmande." Allie giggled, still leaning on him.
So, Nathan said, "Yes!" And, everyone laughed.
Allie returned to her seat as Rebecca made him a nice plate. When she sat it down in front of him, Nathan looked over at Allie and made a funny face. He made his eyes as big as saucers, and protected his plate with his arm, pretending to fight anyone who dared, with his fork. Allie giggled loud. Julia laughed too.
Rebecca looked at the others at the table, and said, "Assiettes gourmandes for everyone?"
Everyone chimed in with their own, "yes." And, Rebecca made more plates, and passed them around.
When Nathan took his first bite of Julia's chocolate cake, his eyebrows went up happily. It was delicious! He took a second bite, and made a funny moaning noise, like he was slowly savoring the cake. Allie looked at him, realizing he was being funny. That started her giggling up again, which only encouraged him. He took another bite, and looked again at Allie. He made another funny moaning noise and rolled his eyes in delight. Allie giggled again, and Julia joined in this time. Rebecca laughed too, and soon they were all chuckling at him. Nathan kept going, taking more bites, and making more happy noises. And, of course, Allie kept giggling.
When the desserts were finished, Rebecca made some herbal tea and brought it to the table. They all enjoyed the tea together and discussed the typical Founder's Day festivities. Bill talked about the old days when the school kids used to put on a play about how Hope Valley, or rather Coal Valley, was founded. However, they hadn't done that in some time, not since the name had been changed to Hope Valley.
When they were done with their teas, Bill started to get ready to go. Nathan realized Julia would go soon too, since it would be better for her to walk with Bill. But, he'd had something he'd wanted to ask her. So, he whispered something to Bill, who nodded. He stood and asked Julia to step out back with him for a moment. She quickly grabbed something from her basket as she followed him out.
When they were alone outside Nathan said to her, "Jules, first, I want to say thank you. I can't believe you made me a chocolate cake. It was a very thoughtful surprise, and so delicious."
Julia smiled at him, "You're welcome, Nathan. It was the least I could do to celebrate you."
"Jules, I know I won't be much for dancing, but would you accompany me to the dance tomorrow night?" Nathan asked.
"Yes. And even if you can't dance, it would be my pleasure, Nathan." She said serious. But, she couldn't help herself and added a little tease, "If nothing else, we could always play darts."
He smiled at her and said, "With you, anytime." He took her hand in his, and said, "Anything to be near you, Jules."
Julia knew what he meant. It had been so nice to just spend time together, at the livery and then walking him back home. She liked being near him.
Julia handed him a little package in brown paper wrapping, with a pretty ribbon tied in a bow. As he took it, she said quietly, "A little gift to say Congratulations. But, please open it later, Nathan."
He looked from the gift back to her, and said, "Thank you, Jules." He kept ahold of her hand.
"You're welcome. I hope you like it." Julia smiled, suddenly feeling a whole lot of butterflies because of the intense way he was looking at her.
He lightly kissed her knuckles, and led her back inside. He didn't let go of her hand until they were almost in the living room. Bill was at the front door ready to go, and Julia said good bye to both Rebecca and Allie. Nathan walked them out on the porch and said good night to both of them. Then he stood there watching them as they walked, for a little while.
When he came back in, Allie and his mother had just about everything cleaned up already. He sat down and opened his gift. It was a very nice leather bound journal, with a very handsome, masculine design on the front. Sticking out of the pages was a card. When he opened the journal to remove the card, he saw that she had written on the first page. Her beautiful cursive writing was striking on the crisp clean pages.
Happiness is a perfume you cannot pour on others without getting some on yourself. ― Ralph Waldo Emerson
He opened the card and found more of her lovely pen.
Dear Nathan,
Congratulations on your promotion! No one deserves it more than you. The way you selflessly protect Hope Valley is not only noble, but inspiring.
I could say I'm proud of you, as truly I am, but that somehow sounds so trite. Maybe because your work is just one part of who you are, and as I have been so fortunate to discover, there is so much more to Nathan Grant. So instead, I will say how very much I appreciate all of who you are. You have added something unexpected and undeserved to my life, and now I cannot imagine it any other way.
I hope you will enjoy writing some of your favorite quotes, and maybe eventually some songs, in this journal. May it be a record of your journey, complete with high's and low's, triumphs and victories, and lots and lots of life lessons. Then, may it serve as a reminder and a testimony, so that when life serves you more questions than answers, you can look back through its pages, and remember just how much you have already overcome.
Yours always,
Jules