Chapter 103. The Sun Comes Out
On Saturday morning, Jimmy woke up refreshed. He'd had a better night, and Faith had only needed to administer pain medicine once. Julia felt a slight shift in him, since Joseph's visit the evening before.
Julia stayed with the patient and sent Faith home for the rest of the morning. They no longer needed two caregivers on duty, and Faith needed a break. Minnie came in with a tray a little while later, handed Julia a plate and coffee, and took the rest in to Jimmy.
While Minnie sat in with Jimmy, Julia ate quickly and took the opportunity to go get washed up herself. She longed for a long, hot bath, to soak and relieve her sore muscles, but she couldn't take that much time. Instead she made do with her wash basin, and got dressed in fresh clean clothes. She fixed her hair and applied her daily cosmetics and perfume.
When she came back over to the infirmary, she was surprised to hear laughter coming from the other side of the curtain. And not just light, polite laughter, but deep belly laughs, from both Jimmy and Minnie. Julia had no idea what they were talking about, but it was so good to hear Jimmy laugh. In fact, it made her smile just listening to them.
Julia went out to sit on the bench a little while, and get some fresh air, while they talked. While she was out there, a certain very handsome Mountie came walking up. Julia recognized his frame as soon as he appeared from around the back of the Mountie building, and she watched him walk all the way. As she did, she realized how very much she missed him. She took in every movement of his body - his long gait, the little saunter of his hips as his boots made contact with the gravel, the sway of his strong shoulders, his cadence, and the way he carried himself. His very apparition did things to her.
When she brought her eyes up, she realized his gaze was fixed on her, too. He came and sat beside her, and smiled crooked. "Hi."
Julia couldn't help but smile back. "Hi, Lawman."
He had noticed how she watched him, and it was hard to contain his contentment. He glanced back the way he had come, and tilted his head cutely. "Were you…looking at me?"
Julia knew she'd been caught, so she decided to roll with it, playfully. "It's hard not to, Lawman. You're so handsome, you kind of draw my attention."
He liked that, and sat up a little taller. "And you draw mine…from a mile away." He admitted. He rasped honest. "I've missed you."
"Oh, Nathan. Me too." She confessed.
"I've missed your smile." He tilted his head again and gazed intensely, drinking her in from up close. And she held his gaze.
He finally managed a question. "How's your patient?"
"He's getting better everyday. And believe it or not, he's in there laughing. With Minnie of all people." Julia told him happily.
"That's a combo I would not have expected." Nathan told her.
"Me either!" She answered with a chuckle. "But it seems to be doing him good."
Nathan had news of his own to share. "Jake just called. They arrested one of the guys already."
Julia was very happy about that. The sooner Jake was home, the better. "That's good news."
"They are headed toward Edmonton for the other two." Nathan reported.
"I hope he'll be home soon." Julia replied. "And, how is the end of your training course going?"
"Commander Collins is in with them now. We should wrap up by noon. Then, we'll have the ceremony in the afternoon, to present the completion certificates." He told her. "Jules, are you still able to come?"
"Of course. I wouldn't miss it." She told him with a proud smile. "I asked Joseph to come and sit with Jimmy while I'm gone."
Nathan nodded happily. There was one more thing. "And can you still make it for the celebration tonight?" He really wanted her on his arm.
"I'll be there, Lawman, right beside you." Julia told him with a cute little wink. He was happy about that.
Just then, Minnie exited with her tray and a happy smile. "Hello, you two." Julia and Nathan both stood.
"Hello, Minnie." Nathan greeted her.
Julia smiled. "Sounds like it went well in there."
"Yes. It did. He's in a good mood today." Minnie surmised.
"So I noticed." Julia said happily. "Thank you, Minnie."
"I'll see you at lunch?"
"Yes, indeed." Julia told her. And Minnie smiled at them both, and departed across the street.
Julia turned towards Nathan. "I should get back in there."
"Ok, Jules." He stepped forward and leaned down just next to her ear. He kissed her cheek so tenderly, Julia felt it all the way to her toes. And he lingered there, near her ear, and softly whispered, "I love you."
Julia brought her hand gently up to his neck and kept him close while she looked into his eyes. "I love you." Then she slowly let her hand fall down from his neck to his chest, and then eventually to her side, as he straightened.
Nathan couldn't take his eyes off of her, that intense gaze held them. Finally, he swallowed hard and asked her. "See you at 2 p.m.?"
Julia managed a simple, "Yes." Then Nathan very reluctantly turned on his heels and headed back to his classroom. And Julia, still captivated, watched him all the way.
Julia went back into the infirmary, and since Jimmy was in a good mood, she pulled back the curtain. She removed the partition completely, opened all the window dressings, and let in the light. Sunshine spilled in through the windows and made a sort of stream - of light - across the floor, all the way to the foot of his bed. Jimmy laid back, happy to see the sunshine, and even wiggled his toes that were now bathed in the rays.
About half an hour later, Allie came in. She looked over at Jimmy sitting up in the bed, immersed in sunshine up to his knees now, and gave him a shy little wave.
"Hello, Mr. McIntosh." Allie greeted.
"Hello, Allie." Jimmy responded, and Julia stood as Allie approached her desk. Jimmy couldn't help but watch their interaction.
Julia gave her a hug in greeting. "Hi, Allie. On your way to the switchboard?"
"Yea. I just wanted to bring you this." Allie held out the latest edition of The Valley Voice.
Excitement washed across Julia's face as she took it, and they sat together, to have a look. Julia curiously opened to the inside spread, which featured last weekend's baseball game, compete with several pictures. She studied the bold titles and the photos. "Wow, it looks so good. Rosemary did an amazing job."
Photos of both teams were featured there, as well as several actions shots. Julia giggled and pointed at the shot of Alex and Bill going toe to toe. And in the photo, just over their shoulders, was Nathan, looking on as they argued - and the amused expression on his face was priceless. And there was a great shot of Pendergrass' winning home run. As well, there was a wonderful shot of Jake, just after he'd swung and hit the ball hard, his eyes obviously watching the ball soar out of sight. The look on his face was sheer contentment. Julia was struck by how handsome he looked, gazing off into the distance, every muscle evident in his chest and shoulders, as he followed through on his swing.
In the team picture, Nathan stood out. He looked happy standing in the back on one corner, almost a head taller than the young man who stood in front of him. He was by far the most handsome, even in black and white newspaper print.
"The photos came out nice didn't they?" Allie asked as she watched Julia peruse them.
"They sure did. Clara really caught the action of the game." Julia said and Allie agreed.
"Game?" The question came from the curious patient in the bed.
Allie brought the paper over so Jimmy could see. "My dad and his Mountie trainees played a baseball game, for all the town, last weekend." She proudly showed him, like it was the most natural thing in the world, to include and talk to him.
Jimmy took his time looking over the spread and all the photos, amused at being included. "Looks like fun."
Allie pointed. "See my Dad?" He nodded. "And that's my future uncle." Allie pointed at Jake, who looked strong hitting that home run.
Jimmy looked at Allie, took notice of her happiness. "You all make a real nice family."
And somehow, in that moment, Julia could see the little boy in Jimmy, still in there, and still wishing for the very same thing for himself: a family.
Allie grinned shy. "Yea. We will." And she looked up at Julia, who was standing right beside her.
Jimmy handed the newspaper back to Allie with an even grin. And the two ladies walked back over to Julia's desk. Allie noticed the clock. "I should get going."
Julia stood and held the newspaper out. "Thanks for bringing this by, Allie."
"That copy's for you." Allie told her.
Julia took it back happily and grinned. "Well, thank you." Julia told her. "I'll walk you out."
When they got out onto the porch, Allie inquired. "He seems to be doing better?"
"Yes, he is. It's a miracle isn't it?" Julia replied.
"Well, that's definitely part of it. But the other part's due to the wonderful care he's getting." Allie smiled proudly at Julia.
"I think it's more the miracle." Julia said timidly. "But thank you for your vote of confidence. I'll take it, dearest Allie." Julia looked at her future daughter. "Thanks for stopping by. I've missed you."
"Me too, Julia." Allie asked her. "Are you coming to the ceremony?"
"I sure am. I wouldn't miss it. Shall we sit together?" Julia asked.
"I'd like that." Allie gave her a hug good bye. "See you then."
As Allie pulled back Julia replied. "See you then, Allie." And she watched as Allie bounded down the street to the mercantile.
At lunch, Minnie came again with a tray. The curtain was pulled back and the infirmary all open, which she was happy to see. Minnie set down a plate for Julia and then headed over to Jimmy. Julia sat at her desk and let them talk, though she could overhear. Much to Julia's surprise, they discussed Jimmy's childhood, which didn't sound all that bad...until. He had an older sister, who he'd been very close with. And he had lots of good memories, and held them surprisingly close. His life hadn't been all that different from hers or anyone else's, up until the point that he'd become an orphan. Up until his sister had died in the fire with his parents.
Faith came in shortly after, carrying a small but pretty bouquet of flowers. Julia's mouth fell open when she saw, and Faith offered the information. "I just ran into Ben." She reported with a shy, nervous smile.
"So, he's decided to be bold, all of a sudden." Julia told her with a wide grin.
"He asked me to come to the ceremony this afternoon." Faith told her.
"Well, maybe we can ask Minnie if she or Joseph wouldn't mind to come and sit with Jimmy during the ceremony, so we can both go." Julia suggested.
Faith nodded slowly, and poured some water in a metal pitcher. She placed her flowers inside and set them thoughtfully on her desk. Then she sat down with Julia, to go over the morning report.
A little before 2 p.m., Faith, Julia, and Allie walked through town towards the church. They picked Fiona up on the way, who was walking much better now. She still had a slight limp and favored her right leg, but she was happy to get out and walk a little.
When the four ladies arrived in front of the church, there was quite a crowd gathered outside already. The baseball game had endeared this group to the town, and many residents had shown up to support the Mounties and the training program. Plain clothes and red serge alike, mingled outside. Julia didn't see Nathan anywhere, but assumed he must be inside, getting ready with the Commander.
Ben spotted them and made his way over. He smiled at Faith as he approached. "You all made it." Ben said you all, but it was rather obvious he was referring to Faith.
Julia smiled at the two of them. Allie looked up at Julia with a knowing look, even she understood. "Yes, we wouldn't miss it."
Faith tilted her head at Allie and let out a little giggle.
The doors to the church finally opened, and everyone filed inside. The trainees went in first and took up the first few rows on each side. When Julia walked in with Allie, Faith, and Fiona, Nathan spotted them and gave them a little wave.
He loved the way Julia's face lit up when she saw him. And from that point on, Nathan had a hard time taking his eyes off of her - he watched her all the way to her seat. Her hair was pulled back in the front but fell down in soft waves around her shoulders. She was wearing a lavender dress that clung to her gentle curves just right. And when she moved, her hips swayed back and forth in a way that made his insides mush. He missed her, longed to go over and sit next to her, to just be near her.
Julia sat with Faith and Fiona, and put her arm gently around Allie's shoulders. When she glanced back up at him, she realized Nathan had been watching her. She titled her head and smiled shyly. He simply gave her his crooked smile and went back to what he was doing with the Commander.
When everyone was inside and seated, the ceremony began. Commander Collins gave a short speech about the Mounties and the long history of tracking in Alberta. He mentioned Rosemary's father, Superintendent Leveaux, and his foundational work in the area of tracking. Commander Collins shared that now, Nathan is carrying on that legacy and taking the subject of tracking to the next level. Then Chief Superintendent Collins turned it over to Nathan, himself.
Next, Nathan shared about the program the trainees had just completed, as well as the tracking exercises. He mentioned the successes of the group as a whole and what advances they'd made together. It was a thoughtful summary of the two weeks. He also mentioned the baseball game and the importance of camaraderie and community. When he was done with his discourse, Nathan began the certificate distribution.
For that part of the ceremony, Nathan said a word about each individual trainee and called them up for recognition. Commander Collins presented each participant his certificate, and then each man shook hands with both Nathan and the Commander. When all sixteen candidates had been congratulated, they all stood to say the Mountie motto. Then the ceremony concluded with a prayer from Joseph - he prayed a blessing and asked protection over the men.
When the ceremony was over, everyone mingled in small groups, and many filtered slowly outside. Allie, Faith, Julia, and Fiona stuck together and chatted. Ben came out surprisingly fast, and walked over to them.
Ben addressed the group, "Would you mind if I stole Faith away from you, for a little while?" Then he tilted his head and looked at Faith, "Would you take a walk with me?"
Faith looked around at the others, slightly shy. "Sure, Ben. I would like that." He cutely extended his elbow and she took it. They walked toward the pond together.
Julia watched them walk away, and realized that Fiona had been watching them too. She had been uncharacteristically quiet today, and seemed a little off.
Allie spotted Robert, Cooper, and Angela. "Julia, I'm going to go say hello."
Julia replied. "Sure. Have fun, Allie."
Julia looked up the stairs and into the church. It didn't seem like Nathan would come out anytime soon. There were still several guys waiting to speak with him.
Fiona looked around the group. Finally, Julia just asked. "Fiona, are you okay?"
She grinned even and replied. "I'm sorry, I'm not the best company right now. I think…I'm a little down. I've had enough of putting my feet up and being limited by my ankle." Fiona explained, as she looked down at it, still wrapped up.
"You don't have to apologize." Julia told her with an understanding smile. "I'm sorry it's been hard." Even if she was able to get around a little better, Fiona still wasn't back to her normal cheery self. Julia tried to encourage her. "But your ankle is getting better everyday, and you're able to get around on it now."
"Yes, that's true." She was very happy about that. Fiona suddenly got a very strange look on her face, one of uncertainty, mixed with a bit of hesitancy and a drop of fear. "Have you heard from Jake?"
And just like that, Julia understood. As soon as Commander Collins had issued his orders, Jake had been forced to leave with Gabe, in such a hurry, he hadn't had time to say goodbye to anyone, including Fiona. "Not personally. But he's been in contact with Bill and Nathan." Julia asked, "When was the last time you spoke with him?"
Fiona looked down at her hands and then back up at Julia. Her face was slightly drawn. "We haven't spoken since I yelled at him, and Mike, coming out of the saloon after the baseball game."
And Julia understood even more. Poor Fiona. She had been stewing on their last interaction - and her over-reaction - since that day, which was almost a week ago now. Fiona felt horrible about how harshly she had spoken to Jake, and she'd had no way to make it right. Julia attempted to offer comfort. "I'm sure he's forgotten all about it already."
Fiona's face still looked slightly pained by how long she had let it go. She looked down at her hands again. "I hope so. Though, I would like to apologize."
Julia tried to reassure her. "I'm sure you will get your chance soon. They already apprehended one of the perpetrators. Only two more to track down, now. He'll be home before you know it."
Fiona couldn't help but ask. "But…he's safe?"
"I'm sure he's just fine." Julia told her with a reassuring smile. "Jake's a good Mountie, and smart in the field. He doesn't take unnecessary risks."
Fiona nodded. But by way of encouragement, Julia decided to add, "Except maybe for those he really cares about." One image immediately popped into Fiona's mind - the memory of Jake jumping, without thought or hesitation, down into that hole, for her. And after such a long, cold, lonely night, he had been such a welcome sight. As soon as he'd appeared she had felt safe, and cared for. And the way he'd held her and given her his warmth was still so fresh and poignant in her mind.
That memory held so much wonderful, mingled with so much terrible. And the wonderful had all been Jake. Fiona quickly looked away and distracted herself with idle conversation. "The ceremony," she motioned towards the church with her hand, "was very nice."
"Yes it was." Julia agreed. Nathan suddenly appeared at the top of the stairs, which drew Julia's attention. His tall, handsome frame was hard to miss. It didn't take him long to spot her too, and he came down to meet them.
"I'm sorry I got hung up." Nathan told them both.
"Don't think twice about it, Nathan. In fact, if you need to mingle with the guys, we can catch up later." Julia told him with a soft, understanding smile.
"Actually, Commander Collins has some things he'd like to discuss with me, before he leaves. So, I might need to take you up on that." Nathan told her with his crooked smile.
"Please, get back in there, Lawman. You can stop by and see me anytime." Julia told him with a supportive smile. "And anyway, I need to walk Fiona back to the barbershop." She said with a little wink.
Fiona shook her head with a little giggle. "I'm getting around just fine, thank you."
Nathan smiled. "And we are all glad about that." He paused. "It is good to see you on your feet again, Fiona."
"Thanks, Nathan." She told him.
"So, I'll see you later, then?" Julia asked.
Nathan nodded and answered, "Without a doubt." He looked at Fiona too. "Bye ladies." And he bounded back up the stairs.
When Julia returned to the infirmary, strangely, Minnie was sitting outside on the bench. Julia approached and looked at her curiously. "Did something happen, Minnie?"
Minnie glanced over at the door and explained. "No, not at all. George is in there. I wanted to give them a little privacy."
Julia was shocked. "George? George Burnett? From Gustave's?"
"That's the one." Minnie told her. Now it was Julia who glanced at the infirmary door, trying to process what it meant that George Burnett was sitting in with Jimmy McIntosh. But, somehow, it made sense. They were family, sort of, even if it was distant and they didn't really know each other. Bottom line, they were related and that counted for something.
"Well, that's…" Julia searched for the right word…."lovely."
Julia took the seat next to Minnie. "How is Jimmy doing, from your experience with him today?"
"Well, he's a lot more open than he was yesterday. So, that's something. And apparently, he really likes to laugh." Minnie said with a thankful smile.
"Yea, so I gathered." Julia smiled, remembering the laughter she'd overheard him share with Minnie this morning. "Laughter is the best medicine."
Minnie agreed with a little chuckle. "One thing is evident: God's workin' on Jimmy. So long as we can keep him here in Hope Valley, I think we'll see lots of positive change." Minnie told her.
"I couldn't agree more." Julia told her with a soft, thankful smile.
Just then, the door opened and George emerged. He looked rather content and peaceful, as he approached them. "Thanks for letting me visit." He told them both.
Julia stood and smiled. "You are always welcome here, George."
"Actually…might I speak with you, Miss Matthews, about Jimmy?" George asked.
Julia was surprised, but happily nodded. "Sure, George."
Minnie interjected. "If you'll excuse me, I'll leave you two to talk. I'll just go back in and sit with him till you're done." The two women exchanged glances. "Good day, Mr. Burnett." Minnie told him, and headed inside.
"Thank you, Mrs. Canfield." George said with a grateful nod.
Julia waved George over to join her on the bench. They sat down together. "Nurse Matthews, I wanted to ask when Jimmy might be released from the infirmary?"
Julia replied. "We are still closely monitoring him for infection, and there is still a fairly high risk of it, in his case. So, he will probably need to stay here until, at least, Tuesday or Wednesday."
"And then?" George asked her.
"We don't know." Julia replied with a sad grin.
"What might need to be done, to continue Jimmy's care, after he's released?" George asked.
Julia told him. "He will need a place to stay where he can get lots of rest, and have the opportunity to rehabilitate slowly." She explained the best case scenario. "Ideally, if he were to stay close enough, in or around Hope Valley, Faith and I could make house calls and handle his care."
George nodded, he was resolved. "Miss Matthews, if my wife were alive, I know what she would do. She would do what she should've done along time ago." He eyes got misty talking about his late wife, who he still held very dear, and in very high esteem. "I have an extra room, and I'd like to offer it to Jimmy. I'd like to carry out her wishes - do what I know she would do."
Julia's eyes got misty, too. "George, that's…wonderful."
"He can get plenty of rest. And between me and William, and our work schedules that tend to be a bit opposite, I think we can see to him quite well." George proposed. "And if you and Dr. Carter will come round and take care of the rest."
Julia encouraged him. "It sounds perfect."
George went one more, and cutely added, "I get plenty of leftovers from Gustave's. He'll be well fed."
He had really thought this out. Julia giggled softly. "That is…important."
George nodded. "Will you talk it through with Dr. Carter? And if it seems satisfactory to her as well, perhaps I can come by tomorrow, and offer it to him myself?"
Julia agreed. "I will speak with her as soon as she's back."
George stood to go, and she stood with him. Julia put her hand gently on George's arm, like a daughter would do. "George, this is such a wonderful, incredible way to honor your wife's memory. To carry out her wishes, just as she would have done." She told him, with huge tears in her eyes. "It's just beautiful."
He sniffled and tried desperately to keep it together. George watched his feet a minute and then finally glanced back up at her, when he felt stronger. "Thank you, Miss Matthews." He turned slowly. "I'll come by tomorrow, then."
"I look forward to it, George."
At around 6 pm, Joseph walked into the infirmary holding two plates, one for Jimmy and one for himself. Just as planned, he had come early to relieve both Faith and Julia, so they could attend the Mountie celebration at Gustave's. With much excitement, both women took off in their respective directions, to get ready for the evening.
Earlier, when Faith had come back after her walk with Ben, she'd had something to tell. Faith's face had practically glowed as she shared how Ben had asked to pursue her romantically. Faith didn't answer him right away, and still wasn't sure what to say. She knew how hard it was to maintain a relationship from a long distance, and she wasn't convinced they could make it work. She liked Ben, and wanted to make a go of it, but how? He was posted so far away, and visits would be so few and far between, because of his Mountie duties. It seemed impossible, but it was equally impossible to deny the spark and the feelings already between them. So, at Faith's prompting, they had both agreed to enjoy the evening, make the most of the time they had together, and see where that left them. One way or the other, he would return to Benson Hills tomorrow morning. And that was a dread that Faith wanted to keep at bay, at least for tonight.
As Julia dressed, she realized how much she missed her Nathan. The last four or five days had been busy, and their separate schedules, and her long days in the infirmary, hadn't allowed for much time together. So she looked forward to tonight, to be on his arm, and to talk and catch up. The program was officially over, and tonight was meant to be a fun celebration, a moment for the men to enjoy, in light of their accomplishments and successes. And Julia would make the most of all of that, right along with this group of Mounties...but most of all, she would enjoy Nathan.
At 6:30 sharp those three light taps sounded on her door. And still, her heart skipped a beat…just like every single time. She walked happily to the door and opened it. And there was Nathan, holding a beautiful bouquet as he stood on her doorstep. He looked so handsome in his gray suit and light blue shirt. And of course, instead of a tie, his shirt collar was open. His blue eyes shone as he took her in.
Nathan couldn't take his eyes off her. She was wearing her medium blue dress, that accented her coloring and her sea blue eyes. He found her stunning, and he couldn't help but be taken by her. His stomach flipped over and he rasped his signature, "Hi."
Julia held his gaze as she drawled her own soft response, "Hi."
Then he managed, "Wow, Julia." She glanced nonchalantly down at her dress, obviously unaware of just how beautiful she was.
But she smiled, "Thank you, Lawman," and finally took the flowers he extended to her.
Julia eventually realized he wasn't going to move, if she didn't. They would likely stand there all night, gazing at each other. "Shall I go put them in water?" She said in a joking tone. He followed her inside as she walked to her kitchen and pulled down a vase. "Where's Allie?"
"She decided to have a sleepover at the Canfield's, with Angela." He told her. "Guess that's more fun than hanging out with Dad and a bunch of Mounties."
Julia teased with a playful smile. "She just has no idea what she's missing."
He stepped closer, and wanted to know what that meant. "So you don't mind all the Mounties?"
She tilted her head and leaned back casually on the counter. "Well there is...one in particular."
Nathan came the rest of the way. "Really?" He asked as he bent down closer and cupped her face with one hand.
Julia searched his eyes and smiled coyly. She drew a ragged breath and let her arms go absentmindedly around him. His eyes went to her lips and she teased, "So we are just going to be late then?"
He hummed a soft "mmmhmm" against her lips, and then he claimed them in a kiss. When the softness of his mouth met hers, her insides went to mush. It had been too long. She had missed him. The kiss was sweet and tender, and they both relished the feel of the other. He searched her deeper and she melted into him. Finally…slowly…reluctantly, he pulled back but stayed close.
Nathan searched the depths of her eyes and reminded her, "In just three short 3 weeks, at exactly this time of day, we will be husband and wife."
The corners of Julia's mouth slowly turned up into a most happy smile, revealing her dimples. And he met her smile with his own happy, crooked one. She whispered breathlessly, "I can hardly wait."
Nathan smiled even bigger and pulled her into his embrace. He held his future wife in his arms, and treasured her. He relished their closeness, and the fathoms of their rapport and friendship. He rested his cheek on her hair and breathed in her sweet, familiar scent. He closed his eyes and tucked it all away, in his heart.
And Julia laid her cheek on his chest, just next to his racing heart. She stayed close to that heart, the one that she loved so dearly, as she held onto him tightly.
Finally, Nathan let out a little chuckle. "Late, indeed." He whispered.
"But this was just what I needed." Julia told him softly.
"Me, too." Nathan confessed. He pulled back just a little and looked into her eyes. "I love you."
And Julia answered softly. "I love you too, Lawman."
When they entered Gustave's, Ben, Faith, and Fiona were already seated and had saved them places. Nathan and Julia made their way over, thought they stopped at various tables along the way, Nathan speaking with his trainees, and Julia on his arm. When they finally sat down, Sarah came over to take their order.
When she got to Julia, Sarah leaned close and asked about Jake. Fiona's head snapped around, but Julia was calm as a cucumber. She just drawled slow, not too loud, "Jake's in Edmonton putting away bad guys."
Sarah blushed a little when she realized Fiona and Nathan had both overheard them, but she nodded anyway. Then she kept going around the table, taking orders, till she was done.
Sarah came back a little while later with the drinks and passed them around. Bill entered Gustave's and made his way over to their table, and joined them.
He leaned over and told Nathan. "I just got off the phone with Jake." That statement got several people's attention - Julia's, and Fiona's, to say the least. "They are in Edmonton now, but it might take a while longer than expected. The trail's gone cold."
Nathan pursed his lips. "How many are on it?"
Bill replied, "Jake's got a team of seven."
"And they are still looking for two remaining perps?" Nathan asked.
"Yes, though I think there might be a third perp involved, now." Bill told him. Fiona looked over at Julia, with a frown. It might be a while before Jake comes home.
Nathan nodded. Sarah passed and took Bill's order too. And to everyone's surprise, Alex walked by carrying a load and dropped off a beer right smack-dab in front of Bill. He looked around the circle at all the curious faces and shrugged. "We've settled our differences."
Nathan chuckled. "Meaning…you apologized?"
Bill smiled lopsided. "Something like that."
When she was through dropping all the other drinks, Alex came back around and quietly greeted everyone at their table. They all chatted a minute with her, but it was busy, so she didn't stay long.
Their dinner plates arrived a few minutes later and they all began to eat happily. Bill chatted with Julia and Nathan, told them that he had indeed apologized to Alex, and now they were on good terms. In fact, she went out of her way to speak with him now, some sort of "bond" he called it. Julia chuckled, imagining Alex and Bill, two introverted, prickly peas-in-a-pod, spending time together. Somehow that unlikely friendship made sense.
Nathan leaned close to Julia and chuckled low. "So Bill has a new best buddy."
Julia chuckled back. "Who knew?" That reminded her of earlier today. "Yet another unlikely pair - like my patient and Minnie Canfield, who have become quick pals. They shared so many laughs today, I was honestly worried about Jimmy's stitches."
"I would have never seen that one coming." Nathan said, just between them.
"Nor I. But I think Minnie and Joseph are just what Jimmy needs." Julia told Nathan low.
Nathan looked at her for a few seconds, held her gaze. He gave her his crooked smile, and she knew something cute was coming. "You are just what I need."
Julia smiled her own cute smile back at him. "And you, Lawman, are a charmer. Are you trying to get more kisses outta me?"
But he was more serious than she realized. His face told her so. "I just thought you should know."
She took a deep breath and whispered low, "You, Nathan Grant, are just what I need. And I will spend the rest of my life loving you."
Nathan just searched her face, struck by this moment, so perfect, yet with such unlikely timing. Surrounded by noise, and ruckus, and a room full of people - life in motion all around them. And yet, it the midst of it, the emotions so palpable and the chemistry so undeniable between them.
Nathan swallowed past the emotions right in his throat. "Mark my word, Miss Matthews. I will try for more kisses later."
Julia smiled shyly at him, her eyes still searching his face, taking in every line and contour. She looked into his eyes, half serious and half playful. "I will be waiting. Count on it."
He smiled at her, impatient for that moment. A part of him wished he could snap his fingers and get rid of this room full of people. Instead, he took her hand and held it under the table, where no one could see, and he gently caressed her knuckles. She loved his touch. His hands were those of a working man - rough and calloused - but they touched her with such tenderness, she melted inside. Julia held on and didn't let go.
A few of the guys came around looking for players in a dart game, and asked Nathan and Julia to join them. They declined, happy to stay right where they were, next to each other. Though Ben and Faith did join, and when Fiona heard that one of the other guys needed a partner, she went with them, too.
Bill chatted with Nathan and Julia for a little while, and then excused himself to go mingle with some of the guys. And, Nathan and Julia found themselves alone.
"How was your meeting with Commander Collins this afternoon?" Julia took the opportunity to ask.
"Very good. He's very pleased with everything." Nathan reported.
Julia looked around the room at all the young guys he had not only taught, but influenced. "Nathan, it seems a great success."
"I think so, I hope so." He told her with a humble grin.
She leaned over close and told him softly, "The Mounties are blessed to have you."
Nathan gazed at her, content. Then he took his own look around the room. "It was a good group."
Julia glanced around one more time. So many young men, good at their jobs and eager to improve. The protectors of Alberta, defenders of common citizens. And tracking was just a tiny bit of what they did everyday, to ensure the security of communities, towns, cities, and eventually...a nation.
Julia's eyes went to the back, where Ben and Faith were playing darts against Pendergrass and Fiona. They were all in good spirits and laughing now, especially at Pendergrass' shenanigans, which seemed to be good for all of them.
Nathan noticed them too, and wanted to share with her. "Chief Superintendent Collins talked to me about something very interesting today."
Julia was curious, "He did?"
"A possible assistant, for the tracking program." That was very interesting.
"They want to give you an assistant?" Julia asked.
Nathan told her. "Maybe not originally. But, Ben Davis asked Commander Collins to stay on, as my assistant. And the Commander likes the idea, because we could run the program more frequently and even open it up to neighboring provinces."
"So Ben asked to stay? Is that even possible?" Julia was surprised, but liked Ben and the idea of having him around.
"Apparently it may be. Commander Collins is looking into creating a posting here, for an assistant. And if it's possible, he will offer it to Ben." Nathan told her. "Though, he did talk to me about it, first."
"And would you like that, having an assistant?" Julia inquired.
"I think so. We could do so much more, if we were two on this assignment. And, I really like Ben. He's a stand up guy, and would be a pleasure to work with." Nathan replied.
"He seems like a hard worker, too." Julia added. It would be wonderful for Nathan to have an assistant, and one like Ben would be an asset.
Nathan agreed. "Yes, he is. And he works well with Jake and Bill, and even Gabe for that matter. He could be called upon as back up for any of them also, in certain cases. And there could be times that we all need to work together."
Julia teased. "The superheroes of Hope Valley?"
Nathan only chuckled. "I wouldn't go that far."
"Okay, the heroes of Hope Valley, then."
Nathan shook his head and teased her back. "You sure know how to boost a man's ego, Miss Matthews."
"It's the truth, Lawman." She said low. Nathan lifted her hand and placed a feather light kiss across her knuckles. Then he returned her hand beneath the table and held it in both of his.
"As long as you and Allie are safe, that's what matters most to me." It was such a simple statement, but revealed so much of why Nathan Grant did what he did. To serve and protect - the ones he loved, and the ones others loved. To keep them safe. It was a beautiful call.
Julia tilted her head at him. "And if you just happen to be our hero, along the way?"
"Then, that's a bonus." He smiled, it was enough for him.
"You are our hero, my love. Don't ever forget it." Julia smiled in a way that made his heart skip a beat, and Nathan relished the moment.
Some of the guys stopped by the table. They were scheduled to leave early in the morning, and wanted to get to bed. Nathan stood and shook their hands, as did Julia, and he told them he would come and see them off in the morning.
Once they were gone, Julia realized the time was getting late. "Nathan, I should probably go relieve Joseph, whose sitting with Jimmy." She looked toward the back, Faith was still deep in the competition with Pendergrass, Fiona, and Ben. "But, you can stay. You should enjoy this to the fullest."
Nathan took her hand back in his. "Nonsense. I would love to walk you back, Jules."
But first, they went to the back and said good night to everyone. Faith looked ready to come, also for Joseph's sake, but Julia told her to stay. Though Julia didn't say it, she thought Faith should take all the time she could with Ben. He was leaving tomorrow, after all. So, she insisted Faith stay. Though Fiona seemed to be having a good time, things were still unsettled in her countenance. Julia hugged her and quietly told her not to worry.
Ben and Pendergrass stepped forward to say good night. And when Pendergrass got to Julia he boldly told her, loud enough for Fiona and a few others to hear, "Please tell Jake I'm looking after his girl." Julia couldn't make out Fiona's expression. Part shock, part concern, part sadness, and part… happiness? It was hard to decipher and Fiona didn't say a word, didn't correct him or chide him, which didn't help. And even that silence, wasn't like Fiona.
So it was Nathan to the rescue. "Leave it to Penny to say the first thing that pops into his head, when what he should really do, is put his foot in his mouth!" They all laughed and that eased the awkwardness. Julia looked at Fiona, who quite honestly, now looked ready to run, or to at least hobble, home.
Julia almost offered to walk her, but the others quickly brought her back into the game, which snapped her out of it. And besides, it was better for Fiona to be out and about, around people, as opposed to all alone at home.
Ben replied, looking at Penny with a mischievous smile, "It's a wonder that we put up with him at all."
Nathan replied dryly, "He's lucky he's one heck of a baseball player." Penny just pursed his lips and folded his arms.
Ben teased. "He's also a pretty good Mountie." And smiled at his comrade. "And a loyal friend."
Julia smiled up at him. "It's a wonder you don't have a girl, Penny."
"Oh, I do have a girl. Back home." He told them all. "Her name is Heather."
Ben teased him. "Does she know she's your girl?"
Penny shook his head. "Very funny. Of course, she knows."
Nathan teased one more. "How do we know this mysterious girl of yours even exists?"
Faith piped in. "Yea, what kind of name is Heather? Sounds fictional to me."
"Haha, you guys. Laugh all you want." Penny told them, with a confident grin. "Soon as she finishes her studies, I'm gonna marry her."
Nathan smiled at his young energetic friend. "Well, if that's true, and you found a girl who will put up with you, Penny, I'm happy for you."
"You'll see." He told them all. "And, I have a picture besides." Pendergrass reached into his pants pocket and pulled it out. He showed Heather to all of them. She had freckles all over and though the photo was worn and faded, and originally in black and white, Julia was sure she must be also be a redhead.
Faith picked up on it too. "A redhead?"
"Yea, though she likes to say her hair is auburn." Penny told them.
"Well, your children won't be brunettes." Julia said with a giggle, imagining big ole Penny surrounded by a brood of cute little freckled, red-headed children.
"Good for you, Penny." Faith told him. "Though, you seem awful flirty with the ladies. It's a surprise to find out you have a girl."
Pendergrass looked at her a little shy. "Oh, that's just my way to pass the time. I would never act on any of those…flirtations."
Julia laughed and told him. "Just don't tell her that first part, Penny."
He looked suddenly shy. Penny really was rather inept when it came to the ladies. He was probably better off marrying a sweet little redhead from his little farming hometown. "Okay." He said with a shrug. Faith, Fiona, and Julia all laughed, and he still looked confused.
"Maybe explain it to him later." Julia told Ben, who nodded. Then Julia told all of them. "Well, good night, everyone."
"I'm gonna walk my girl home, then I'll be back." Nathan told them proudly, looking at Julia.
Nathan and Julia passed by the bar and paid George on their way out. Nathan intertwined their hands as they walked out onto the street.
When they reached the infirmary, Julia tried to make their good-bye quick so Nathan could return and enjoy the guys a little longer. But Nathan wasn't having it.
He didn't seem to want to leave. "Are you trying to get rid of me, Jules?"
"No never, Lawman. I just wanted to make it easy for you to return to Gustave's."
"I don't really care about going back, Jules. I care about spending time with you. Like I told you before, I have missed you these last days. And I've had such a wonderful time with you tonight." He spied the bench and had an idea. "Maybe we can sit a little while."
Julia smiled. "I'd like that, but…please, let me quickly relieve Joseph." He nodded and Julia disappeared inside. When she came back, Julia held the door for Joseph, who carried the tray of dirty dishes. He quickly said good night and headed back to the cafe.
Julia propped the infirmary door open, so she could hear her patient, who was apparently already asleep. Nathan took her hand and led her to the bench. They sat together, close to each other, and he put his arm around her. Julia snuggled into his side, and gently rested her head back on his shoulder. She would never get tired of this. Nathan snuggled in closer too and laid his head back against the wood siding behind them.
And they sat awhile, enjoying each other, and the starlit sky...together.