Chapter 106. Dreams as Wide as the Sky

Jimmy was all set to move over to George's house on Tuesday. Everything was on track with his recovery, and rather miraculously, there were still no signs of infection. So, in the morning, Faith and Julia discussed his care with him. He was receptive to the care plan they had devised and at least half-way ready for the long recovery in front of him.

Early in the afternoon, with William's help, Faith and Julia got him all loaded up into Lee's car. They drove out to George's and got Jimmy all settled in. Julia and Faith went over the details of Jimmy's care with both George and William. They explained that twice a day, either doctor or nurse would come for house calls, and that the schedule would be adapted according to his progress.

Julia went in to see Jimmy while Faith finished up with George. She pulled a simple, brown-paper wrapped package from her bag, and handed it to him.

Jimmy reluctantly took the package, and glanced up at Julia, slightly stunned. "What's this?" Though he could already tell, through the paper, it was some kind of book, and a rather thick one.

Julia sat down next to him. "You asked me once about my favorite authors." Julia reminded him. "This is my favorite book."

Trying to recover, Jimmy looked down at the paper, and blinked a few times. He had been given very few gifts in his life, and never since his parents were gone. He slowly turned over the package and broke the tape on the back. As he opened the wrapping and flipped it over, he looked up at Julia, still speechless. Inside was a beautiful, brown leather book. Jimmy ran his hand over the intricate lettering of the title...Holy Bible.

Neatly cut strips of paper were sticking out just slightly from the top. He looked at them curiously, and then glanced up at Julia. "This book has always been a source of hope for me. I hope you don't mind, but I marked some of my favorite verses." She told him. "Ones I thought you might like."

He opened the Bible to reveal that she had not only marked the pages with white strips of paper, but the verses also - with a simple and neat pencil underline. Jimmy read though one of the verses and smiled. Then he turned the page to another one.

This one he read aloud. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (1)

"I like that one." Julia told him softly.

He flipped to another page. "For He himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."" (2)

Julia smiled again. "You are picking all the good ones, Mr. McIntosh."

"I think it's more likely that you have underlined the good ones, Miss Matthews." Jimmy teased, though he kept flipping, seemingly happy with his gift.

"You mentioned that you have a lot of questions. That your way of thinking has been challenged." She paused, hoping he would be receptive. "This is the best place to look for the answers to your questions."

Jimmy looked at her, not really sure how to respond. But he was touched by the gift and the thoughtful gesture. He'd never owned such a handsome book. "Thank you, Miss Matthews."

"You're welcome, Jimmy. I hope you find what you are looking for."

Jimmy went back to flipping and Julia stood. "Joseph mentioned that he will come by to see you later this afternoon. Faith will be back tonight for your house call, and I'll see you in the morning."

Jimmy looked up at her, and she thought for just a moment that she saw tears in his eyes. Was it possible for such a tough guy to be...emotional? She wasn't sure. But, he finally cleared his throat, and nodded. "Thanks, Julia." The words came out so softly as he lightly tapped his hand on the top of his new Bible.

Julia and Faith drove back into town and parked the car in front of Lee's office. And as they were getting out, they ran into Elizabeth and Little Jack. Little Jack remembered Julia as the nurse that helped him when he hurt his head, so as soon as he saw her and Faith, he let go of his mother's hand and ran in their direction. Julia saw him coming, as did Faith, so they both stooped down on his level, to greet him.

"Newse! Dowctow!" He said as he extended his tiny little hand to both of them. Was this some cute little stage he was going through? He was adorable!

"Hi, Little Jack." Julia had the honor of shaking first.

Elizabeth caught up just as Faith was greeting him. "Hey little man." She told Jack. "You are growing so much!"

Jack put his hands on his hips and looked at them, proud. "Thas wot Awlie said."

Julia chuckled. "Well, Allie's right. We won't be able to call you Little much longer. We'll have to call you just Jack."

Elizabeth chimed in. "He outgrew all of his pants while we were in Hamilton."

Faith and Julia both straightened. Faith raised her pointer finger. "At least you were in the right place for shopping." How she longed for some of her favorite fashion shops in Hamilton.

Elizabeth smiled. She had been shopping several times while in Hamilton. Her sister, Julie, had made sure to get her out and about, as much as possible, though several times, Julie had been a little too much. "My sister and I did plenty."

Faith was glad to hear it. "Wish I could have been with you, to see all the latest fashions. Was the fall line out yet?"

"Oh yes, they were just putting it out." Elizabeth told her. "Burgundy is the color this season."

Julia giggled. "Same here at Dottie's. I guess Clara does a good job of keeping up with the latest." She paused and pointed back towards the dress shop. "She just put a burgundy dress in the window this morning."

Elizabeth looked at Faith and smiled. "I didn't get much for myself, I'm afraid." She admitted.

"Are you happy to be home?" Faith asked her.

"Oh, yes. I always forget how very much I miss Hope Valley, until I'm away." She told them both with a genuine smile. Something seemed different about Elizabeth Thornton. Though, Julia had no idea what.

"Allie tells me school starts back on Monday." Julia told her, looking back towards the schoolhouse. "She's very excited."

"Yes, and so am I." Elizabeth told them. "I've been busy in the school house all day, preparing."

"I always loved the first day of school. So many new possibilities, so much to learn." Faith surmised.

Julia smiled at Faith, agreeing wholeheartedly. "There's nothing like a blank slate." Faith returned the wistful smile.

Then Faith turned to Elizabeth. "If you need any help with science this year, let us know." Julia nodded too.

"That's a wonderful idea. Perhaps I will take you up on that." Elizabeth looked from Julia to Faith and back. "Thank you both."

Faith nodded. "Well, good day then, Elizabeth."

"Bye, Elizabeth." Julia replied, and then bent to bid farewell to Jack, who shook her hand again.

About half an hour later, Fiona was washing the windows of Nichols & Dimes when a flash of red caught her eye. Her breath caught and her wiping slowed to a halt, as she focused her vision out through the freshly cleaned glass, to the road outside. And there he was - Jake - riding through town on Ranger, with Sergeant tethered behind him. Fiona's mouth fell open just slightly and her heart rate increased as she watched his every move, while he was unaware. And when his gaze unmistakably strayed over towards the barbershop, she pulled back just slightly from the window.

Without even realizing what she was doing, Fiona went to the door and opened it. As soon as Jake caught sight of her in the doorway, his gaze was fixed, and she stood frozen for the briefest of moments. He pulled Ranger to a stop right in front of Nichols & Dimes and dismounted. Then he brought the reigns over Ranger's head and tied him up, Fiona stepped out on the front porch.

As he mounted the stairs toward her, he looked tired and slightly disheveled. It had been a long, hard mission, that much was obvious.

He stopped just in front of her, and Fiona stated softly. "You're back."

Jake gazed down at her and gave her a timid half smile. "Yep. And you…you're back on your feet."

Fiona was having a hard time averting her gaze. He was a sight for sore eyes, even if the lines on his face were deeper, and he looked exhausted. His eyes were slightly red and disappointingly void of their normal playful sparkle. Her…reaction to him…caught her completely off guard. She hadn't been ready for the affect his return would have on her. Had she really felt his absence so acutely?

She finally managed a response. "Yes, I am." She glanced down at her ankle and back up at him. His eyes were still keenly fixed on her. They needed to find a lighter topic of discussion. "Did you get the bad guys?"

Jake nodded slowly. There were so many things he wanted to say, but his mind went blank as soon as he came near her. "You changed your hair."

He had noticed. "It's lighter."

He replied softly. "It's beautiful." It brought out her coloring and her eyes, in a way that made his stomach do flips. He hadn't been prepared for how seeing her would make him feel.

Fiona swallowed hard and felt her cheeks burning. "Thank you."

"Fiona…" Jake was usually so good with words, but today, it just wasn't the case. He tried to finish his sentence, but the rest was not coming.

"Jake!" Bill's voice broke the silence, interrupted their honest moment. And Jake was reluctant to divert his attention from the woman standing in front of him. But Bill climbed the stairs, and spoke again, so he finally relinquished it. "Jake, you're home."

Jake nodded. "Just rode in."

"And, you brought Sergeant!" Bill put his hand on Jake's shoulder. "Elizabeth will be thrilled."

Jake glanced at Fiona, sorry written on his face, and then gave his attention back to Bill. "Just doing my job, Bill."

Bill smiled crooked. "I know you were, but that horse means a lot to Elizabeth…and to several other people round here." He looked from Jake to Fiona and realized he'd interrupted something. He motioned back over his shoulder. "Can I take him to the livery?"

Jake pursed his lip, thought of Ranger, and well, reason won out. "I'll come with you, Bill. Ranger needs to be tended, too. It was a long ride."

He turned back toward Fiona. "Perhaps we can finish our conversation later? Will you please excuse me, Fiona?"

She nodded disappointment. "Of course."

Jake went down to street level and handed Sergeant's reigns to Bill. Then, he began untying Ranger.

"Jake." Fiona called out as she came down two steps, her abrupt movement got Jake's attention. "I'm glad you're back safe."

Jake gave her a gentle though tired smile. "Thanks."

And then he watched her as he mounted, turned and gave her a tip of his hat.

And Fiona watched that one man, as he rode all the way down to the livery. She wanted…no, she needed to apologize. And she felt that need now, more than ever. It weighed heavy on her heart, alongside something else that she wasn't ready to recognize or define. But she would start by apologizing, and she would do it the first chance she got.

When Jake got Ranger put up, and Bill was done with Sergeant, they walked back toward the Mountie office together. And on the way, they talked about the last days and the arrest of all three perpetrators. They went up the back stairs to Nathan's office. And they sat with Nathan a while, discussing the case fully and how best to handle Jimmy McIntosh.

When that was done, Jake made a bee-line for the barbershop. He sauntered up her front steps, but just before he opened the door, he caught sight of someone sitting in her chair, getting a haircut. Disappointed, he continued on down the boardwalk toward the infirmary instead.

When he entered, Julia rose, smiled huge, and rushed to greet her brother. She threw her arms round him, and squeezed hard.

"Jake! You're home." She exhaled relief. "I missed you so much!" Julia pulled back and looked him in the eye. "When did you get back?"

"About an hour ago." He told her. Words were short, which could only mean one thing.

Julia made her perusal, looked her brother up and down. "You look exhausted." She could see the fatigue and the road dust in his face. "You need a hot bath."

"It's next on my list." He told her with a soft, tired chuckle. "Sis, I'm off again early in the morning."

"Already?" She asked. "Why so soon?"

Jake looked out at the street and then back at her. "The trial for Fiona's kidnappers starts Thursday. I don't have much of a choice." He paused. "I wouldn't have come home at all, if it wasn't for Sergeant, who needed to be brought home."

Julia nodded. One case had taken too long, and had run into another. "How long will the trial take?"

"Up to a week, but I hope to be home on Friday. I don't have to stay for the duration, just long enough to give my testimony, and read Fiona's sworn statement." He reported. Jake looked around. "Where's Jimmy?"

"He was moved to George's house this afternoon." Julia happily reported.

Jake smiled. "Wait. George, from Gustave's?"

Julia nodded. "Exactly. Jake, it's so sweet." Her expression became earnest and…touched. "George wanted to fulfill his wife's wishes, and offer Jimmy a place to live, as she had wanted to do when Jimmy was a boy. Sort of do what she would have done, as a way to honor her memory."

Jake looked around the infirmary, at the empty bed. "Wow, that's something." He looked back at Julia. "Something incredible."

She looked at him. "Yes, it is. I just hope Jimmy will stay on the good path he seems to be on."

He was honest with her. "You know when he's better, he still might face charges."

Julia nodded, could understand that the Mounties would need to see justice served, even if that meant Jimmy would be handed a sentence. "I understand. But, he's doing very well, now. And I'm hoping for the best."

Jake was glad to hear it. "And the wedding plans?"

"Everything is moving along just fine. Archie just came back yesterday. And I'm off for dinner tonight at Nathan's, with my three Grants." Julia told him with a happy smile. Maybe she should offer. "If you're interested in coming…"

"No, thank you, Julia. As much as I'd like to see them all, I have too much to do." He was losing steam, she could see. She hoped rest would be among his things to do. "But please, give them all my greetings. Especially Allie."

Julia nodded and took his arm. She walked him toward the door. "You should get home, Jake. Your prescription is a hot bath and rest." She looked at the clock. It was early still, but he probably hadn't slept in a bed in days.

"Okay, Nurse." He told her with a teasing smile, and he opened the door. "At least I don't have to ride tomorrow. I'm taking the train, and I can sleep all the way."

Julia thought of something. "Wait!" She told him, and she took off into her apartment. She came back with a bundle, and Jake knew there must be food wrapped inside. She tucked it under his arm, and he stepped out towards his apartment.

Faith came back a few minutes later, and the two ladies closed up the infirmary and headed down to Nichols & Dimes. Some time ago, Fiona had planned a fun "hair date", a girl time get-together, and they had all three been very excited about it. However, the robbery at the oil rig, and the injury to Fiona's ankle, had forced them to put it off. Finally, now that Fiona was all better, they were going to get their fun.

When Julia and Faith strode in, Fiona was just sending off her last customer. She directed them to take seats, then she closed the door and flipped the sign. Closed.

"Okay…la—dies!" Fiona said as she clapped her hands together and sauntered back towards where they were seated. "Finally!" She rubbed those hands together, looking very excited.

Faith pulled a bottle of sweet wine from her bag. "I picked this up today." She showed them both before she set it on the unlit wood stove next to her.

Fiona grabbed three glasses and brought them over. She opened the bottle and poured some into each glass. Then she passed them out. "Cheers!" They said, as they lightly clanged their glasses together. Julia sipped slowly, it was strong and sweet.

Fiona put her glass down gently. "Who's first?"

Faith spoke up. "You go first, Julia. I can't wait to see you try something for the wedding."

Fiona led Julia over to the chair, and asked her questions about what she had in mind for the wedding. She took in all of Julia's responses, and began to work her magic. Little by little, it started to take shape. She used a curling wand for some places, and at the end, a new fine spray she called a "holding mist".

"What do you think?" Fiona stepped back and let Julia have a good look.

"Oh, Fiona!" Julia turned right and left. "It's just lovely."

But Fiona had to know. "Is it what you wanted? How you imagined it?"

Julia smiled. "Yes…almost." Fiona stepped closer and Julia gave a few simple points of feedback. Fiona worked quietly to change a few minor things. Then, she stepped back again.

"And, now?" Fiona asked.

Now, it was just perfect. "Oh, Fiona! It's just beautiful! I love it. And, it's just right. It will be just perfect with my dress."

Faith chimed in. "It's so lovely, Julia." She finished her glass of wine and stood up to come over and get a better look. "Fiona, you did such a great job. It's beautiful." She looked at Julia in the mirror. "Nathan will not know what hit him!"

"No, he definitely will not." Fiona chuckled low. "I can't wait to see his mouth fall open when you come down the aisle." She teased.

Julia giggled. "I think I'm gonna be the one in shock, when I see how handsome he looks standing there waiting for me."

Faith giggled. "That's what I love about you two. You are so perfectly matched, and so cute with each other."

Fiona added, "And you make one handsome couple. I've got to say."

Julia smiled at them both. "Thank you both for saying so. I don't think I've ever met a man so handsome, and I still can't believe I get to marry him."

Fiona added. "And that's what we love about you two. He'd probably say the very same thing - that you are the most beautiful woman he's ever laid eyes on, and he can't believe he gets to marry you."

"It's what makes you two perfect together." Faith added.

Julia looked at them both. "Thanks, you two." She paused and wanted them to know. "I hope you don't mind me saying so, but I hope the same happens for the both of you, when the time is right." She paused. "I love you girls."

Faith got misty eyed. "Aw, I love you girls, too."

Fiona sniffled a minute and then said. "Okay, enough mushy stuff! The objective today is hair, not love."

Faith laughed out loud. "Okay, hair it is."

Fiona looked at Faith and smiled. "You're next!"

Julia moved over one seat but stayed close so they could chat. Faith grabbed Julia's glass and handed to her, before she sat down in the chair. Julia took another sip and looked at her two friends.

"Faith, have you any news from Ben?" At her question, she saw a myriad of emotions flash across Faith's face - happiness, then sadness, then hope.

"Not yet. But he just left on Sunday morning." Faith told them both.

Fiona encouraged. "It is perhaps a little early yet. He has to have time to get home and miss you." She said with a cute, almost teasing grin.

Faith smiled. "He lives so far away. I think it will be impossible."

Julia, always the encourager. "Don't give up that easily, Faith. If it's meant to be, nothing can derail it." Fiona looked at Julia, and Julia held her gaze, confident of her words. By Fiona's expression, Julia could see that statement had brought only one person to mind - Jake. "A spark like that doesn't happen everyday." She added softly, directing those carefully chosen words to both ladies.

Again, she saw that her words hit home. Fiona stopped what she was doing and brought her gaze to Julia once more.

It wasn't such a smooth transition, but Julia could never be pretentious or false. "Jake's back." She tried to use a sort of out-of-the-blue tone.

Fiona nodded and replied, honest. "Yes, I saw him ride back into town."

Faith hadn't seen her friend yet. "Oh, I missed him, didn't see him yet."

Julia looked down at her wineglass. "Well you didn't miss much. He looked...weary."

Fiona had to agree. "Yes he did. I guess so many days of chasing criminals can be tiring."

Julia added. "And sleeping on the ground." She looked over at Faith. "I'm sure he didn't eat well, either."

Fiona hoped it wasn't because he had a lot on his mind, as she did. She hoped he wasn't worried about where things stood between them, or concerned about how things were left when she'd shouted at him outside of Gustave's. Like she was. He was a sensitive guy, even if he looked all strong and tough. She knew it all too well - by the unmistakably tender way he had handled her and taken care of her when she'd been in the hole. The gentle way he'd washed her hands had been her undoing.

Fiona swallowed down the thoughts that had run away from her, and continued working on Faith's hair. She set some curls in a new manner she had seen in one of her hairstyle magazines, thankful for the distraction. "I'm sure he'll get some rest and be right as rain."

Julia pursed her lips together. "Unfortunately, he's off again tomorrow morning." Fiona wasn't one bit subtle as she stopped what she was doing and let her gaze come 'round to Julia. "He has to go testify in the trial of your kidnappers."

Fiona let that sink in. Jake would be gone again, to put away…her kidnappers. Something she didn't want to think of ever again. It took her a moment to collect herself, then she took a deep breath and went back to what she was doing. She worked and worked, her intense focus a sort of escape, and she didn't say anything at all for a long while.

Julia decided it best to change topics. "Elizabeth and Little Jack are back, too. Though I don't really know them that well."

Fiona had seen them a few times. "I saw them around town." She paused. "Seems like Hamilton was good for them."

Faith had to agree. "Yes. I found Elizabeth changed somehow." She looked at Julia with raised eyebrows. "In a good way."

Fiona also thought so. "I found her different, too." She told them both. "Though, I can't put my finger on how exactly."

Julia asked the question. "How so? Faith, you have known her the longest."

Faith explained a little. "Elizabeth has always been a nice person, but somewhat of a meddler. She likes to help others…maybe that's a nicer way to put it." She paused and giggled. "At first, I found it troublesome and annoying. What makes her an authority on life? But then, I realized it really did come from a good place. She has a giving heart, and always meant well." She looked at both of them. "But, when Jack died, she changed. I'm sure it's normal, for any widow who is grieving. And, I cannot imagine what she went through." She paused. "But, she became self-absorbed. I think losing him made her go inward. And she thought only of herself, and how to protect her heart."

Julia could only imagine. Elizabeth had lost her husband just two weeks after finally marrying him, and found out shortly after that she was pregnant. "It must not have been easy."

"She's strong, and I think she did well, for the most part." Faith told them. "But, she lost that zeal for life that she once had. And, she lost her footing to discern what is good from what is better. For herself, for her students, for anyone around her." She paused and took a drink of her wine. "When there were suddenly two men interested in her, she became unbearable. She was afraid she would get hurt again, and so, she used various defense mechanisms to protect herself."

Fiona had been around for that part, so she chimed in. "She didn't let people close, only a select few. And even those were not allowed to voice their concerns." She remembered how Elizabeth had pushed Rosemary away. At one point the rift had been obvious to anyone who knew the two of them. "First sign of trouble, and she was yelling, sometimes - in the middle of the street." That brought to mind the story of Elizabeth yelling at Nathan in the middle of the street, in front of the entire town.

"Sounds like she was unstable, like a ship without an anchor." Julia surmised.

Faith agreed. "That's a wonderful way to put it, Julia." She pursed her lips. "And though she treated neither suitor very well nor very fairly, Nathan took the blunt of her blows. He braved the worst of it."

Fiona piped in. "I'm not so sure about that, Faith. Did you see Lucas when he came back from Hamilton?" Fiona would know, she worked with Lucas for quite a while. She looked at Julia. "Elizabeth Thornton never seemed to take anyone else's feelings into account. She didn't calculate how her actions or her words might hurt another. And sadly, no one ever called her out on it. I think Rosemary tried once, but she was treated badly, too."

Julia was sad to hear all this. "And now? What seemed changed, when you saw her recently?"

Faith answered. "She's more settled and at peace, like she used to be. She seems to know who she is again, in a way that allows her to look outside of herself. Perhaps she got a good talking to in Hamilton, or just resolved some deep issues on her own. I'm not sure, but I think she's made some steps in the right direction."

Julia grinned even. "I hope you're right. For her sake, and for Little Jack's." She paused. "It's no fun to live behind a wall of protection."

Fiona looked at Julia when she said that. She had just been reflecting on her own wall the last few days, in Jake's absence. The wall she had so desperately tried to keep in place, when he'd tried to pick her up and put her back in Lee's car, outside of Gustave's. In fact, she had shouted at him in an effort to keep that wall intact. But he was trying his hardest to get over it. And half of her, the half that couldn't seem to take her mind off of him, desperately hoped he would scale it.

Faith added. "A wall keeps you from getting hurt, but also keeps out the best parts of life. Why would you want to live life at arm's length?"

Julia agreed. "We all used to have those walls, to some extent, didn't we?"

Fiona shrugged. "Or maybe, still do."

Julia looked at her, and instantly knew to what she was referring. "Previous heartbreak does not mean that the next time we are willing to open ourselves, it will end the same." She thought again of Elizabeth Thornton. "Fear wants us to believe it will…but fear is a liar."

Faith agreed. "And we cannot let those lies, or fear, paralyze us from moving forward."

Fiona nodded. If anyone knew about heartbreak, it was Faith, who'd had her heart broken most recently. "You are very brave, Faith."

Faith looked at her friend. "So are you, Fiona." She paused. "Your broken engagement might feel like a long time ago now, but the fear is still close by. Don't let it get the better of you."

Both women looked at Fiona, and she took it in, because she knew they both meant it in love. But she didn't know where she and Jake stood. Or did she? Because it seemed obvious to both of them, by his actions, that Jake's intentions were clear. The tenderness he had displayed when she'd been kidnapped; the way he'd carried her, and the log, on the day of the baseball game. He had taken care of her. And he'd done it in a way that spoke very loudly - that what was between them was more than friendship. His attentions had declared himself, even if he had not yet said a word.

Fiona looked out the window towards the Mountie office. It was still closed up tight. Was that disappointment she felt?

Fiona resolved herself and went back to what she was doing, on Faith's hair. She curled a few more pieces and worked a few more pins in.

And…she turned Faith around in the chair to face the mirror. "Voilà! What do you think?"

Faith's mouth fell open. She turned her head slightly to the right, and to the left. She took it in. Julia did too. "Oh, it's so nice! I love it!"

Julia agreed. "It's just beautiful, Faith. Different and so very nice."

Fiona went into a full explanation of what she had done, step by step, so that Faith could repeat the process on her own if she wanted. When she was done with her explanation, she stepped over near Julia.

"Refill?" She asked, holding the wine bottle.

"No thank you, I am going to the Grant's for dinner." Julia giggled. "And I have to walk there."

Faith thought of something. "Maybe we should mess your hair up a little, so Nathan doesn't see it before the wedding."

Fiona giggled. "Nah, we won't mess it up. I'll just let some pieces down and change it a little." And, she did just that.

When both ladies were satisfied, they promised to do it again in a week or so, before the wedding. The girl time had been so good for all three of them.

The trio walked outside on the porch together.

Faith bid them farewell. "I'm off for my house call." She looked at Julia. "See you tomorrow?"

Julia nodded. "Tell Jimmy I'll see him in the morning." She gave a hug to Fiona, and whispered low. "Jake is easy to talk to."

Fiona stepped back on her heels and nodded. "For you." She told Julia with a timid smile. It was true, talking to someone as a brother, or as a love interest were two very different things.

Faith hugged Fiona one more time, and then headed down to the infirmary, to get her medical bag.

Julia began her walk to Nathan's, and disappeared around the corner toward the row houses.

And Fiona crossed the street at a diagonal and climbed the steps. She peered through the windows and still didn't see any sign of Jake inside the Mountie office. He must be out on rounds, or at home resting. So, with sunken shoulders, she gave up and headed home, too.

As soon as Julia rounded the corner toward the row houses, she was met by the most peculiar sight. Nathan Grant behind the wheel of a car! And Lee smiling big as can be, in the passenger seat next to him.

Nathan pulled to a halt right next to her, and he gave her his charming, crooked smile. And just like that, all of her insides went to mush. Playfulness was written on his face, and she was game.

"Why Mr. Grant, this is a surprise! The Mounted Police Officer, turned Inspector, behind the wheel of a car?" She tilted her head, narrowed her eyes, and teased. "Does Bill know about this?"

Nathan just kept smiling, and replied with ease. "Anything is possible, Miss Matthews. This is the 20th century!"

Julia laughed out loud and stepped closer to the car. "Just wait till word of this gets out. Poor Newton, thrown over for a gasoline car!"

Nathan shook his head, no way he was giving up his horse. "Headquarters sent out a directive, all officers are to learn to drive. But, that's all for now." He told her. Again that smile. "So Newton's job is safe, and technically, I'm just following orders."

She placed her hands on the driver's side door, and leaned in close. "And it seems, Inspector, that you are doing just fine." She took him in, all handsome and confident behind the wheel. "How many lessons have you had?"

Nathan titled his head at her playfulness. "This is my second one."

"You, Mr. Grant, are a natural!" She affirmed him, and he ate it up. He smiled that happy smile, that went up into his eyes. "Though, that's no surprise."

Lee was quite amused watching them. In fact, he got the feeling they had forgotten he was even there. He decided to remind them. "He only killed the motor twice, during his first lesson."

Julia smiled at Lee and then told Nathan. "That's better than me, Inspector." She paused. "Course, I did have all those carriages and mailmen to distract me."

Nathan laughed remembering what Jake had told them about Julia nearly running down a carriage and a few mailmen on her first driving lesson. "I only had to keep from running over wildlife." Nathan surmised.

Julia glanced at Lee. "And did he?"

Lee chuckled. "As far as I know. Though, we might have killed a squirrel or two, without my noticing."

Nathan laughed. He turned his head back round and looked up at his beautiful fiancé. "May I give you a ride back to town, Miss?"

Julia looked down at him, and couldn't resist. She wanted to be wherever he was, no matter where that might be. "Sure, Inspector. I was headed to your house, anyway."

Nathan opened the door and climbed out, extending his hand. Julia giggled low at his cute gesture, and placed her hand in his. He surprised her when he kissed her knuckles, like a true romantic, before helping her into the back seat. Then when she was all seated, he folded himself back into the front seat, long legs and all.

Lee watched the entire interaction with amusement, and was now grinning from ear to ear.

When they arrived in front of the sawmill office, Nathan parked the car perfectly. He unfolded himself again from the driver's seat, and held his hand out for Julia. He helped her down from the back seat, but didn't let go of her hand. He threaded their fingers together instead, and held tight as they said good-bye to Lee, who then disappeared inside.

When Lee was gone, Nathan turned and looked down at Julia. "I had meant for it to be a surprise."

Julia smiled softly. "Oh, no. I didn't mean for your surprise to be ruined. I finished early and couldn't think of anywhere else I'd rather be, than your house. Did I come too early?"

Nathan didn't mind a bit. "No, no. Not at all. And, I didn't mean that the way it came out." He paused and tried again. "I only meant to explain why I didn't mention it to you before, why I didn't tell you already, that I was learning to drive. I thought I would let it be a surprise."

Julia understood. He was worried that she would find it strange that he hadn't mentioned his taking driving lessons, before now. "Nathan, I trust you completely. You don't have to explain."

Nathan brought his other hand up to her chin and tipped it up just so, and placed a quick, featherlight kiss on her lips. This was dangerous, though. They were on the street and it was hard to stick to just one. They both looked at each other a moment longer, wanting more, so much more.

Finally, he turned slightly and smiled down at her. They walked hand in hand, down the path towards Nathan's row house.

He looked her over carefully, and mentioned a change. "Your hair is different."

Julia couldn't keep it from him, even if it was customary. So she tried not telling him quite all of it. "Fiona and Faith and I were trying out hairstyles."

Nathan assumed it would be permanent. "A new hairstyle? It's nice."

She couldn't help herself and told him the rest. "We were trying them out for the wedding, specifically."

Nathan nodded. "Ah." Though he was curious now. "So, am I allowed to see this one?"

"This one you can see." She said with a giggle. "It's okay."

Nathan looked down at his feet and smiled. He looked up at her. "Are you nervous?"

"About dinner?" She teased.

Nathan laughed out loud. Though, it was obvious by the look on her face, she had known what he meant. "About our wedding."

Julia couldn't lie. "A little." She paused. "I don't like to stand up in front of a lot of people."

Nathan could relate. "Me, either."

"Well, let's make a pact." She told him with a cute smile.

Nathan was curious, liked where this was going. "What sort of pact?"

"Well, if one or the other of us messes up, gets too nervous and says the wrong thing…we just laugh, together, in front of everyone." She proposed. "Just have a good laugh, and get the nerves out of the way."

Nathan liked that. "Or, I've got a better idea." He told her. "The one who messes up, just grabs the hand of the other," He lifted their hands intertwined together for impact, "and we run off together and elope in Buxton." He teased. "Have a wedding in front of no one at all."

Julia laughed at that one, too. She looked up at him. "Or maybe, just maybe…because it's you and me…it will be just perfect."

Nathan stopped their gentle stroll, turned and faced her. "You and me. That is just about as close to perfect as I can get."

Julia agreed. "Or I." And he tipped her chin again with the curved forefinger of his left hand, and planted another light kiss on her lips. He pulled back slow, and looked down at this beautiful woman who would soon become his wife. One kiss was just not enough. He leaned down again, and kissed her more thoroughly. He felt anticipation and heat course through his body, as their lips met the second time. After such a declaration of two hearts, so melded together, it was natural that the feelings would be intense, and difficult to express through a single, simple kiss.

Nathan pulled back slightly and remembered they were standing in the middle of the path, in front of the row houses. He looked sheepish for a split second and glanced around just in time to see the door close on the very last row house - Elizabeth Thornton's house.

Julia realized by the playful look on Nathan's face, that someone had probably seen them. And his added little "Oops," served as confirmation.

"Oops?" Julia looked behind them, and returned his playfulness. "You naughty inspector. Someone saw us?"

Nathan stepped beside her and set them into motion again. "Possibly." He smiled down at her. "Do you mind?"

Julia smiled up at him. "Not one bit."

He led her up the steps to his house, and opened the door. A wonderful smell met them, as did the patter of excited feet when Allie saw them enter. She greeted both of them, as did Archie.

"How are you settling in, Archie?" Julia asked him.

He drawled slow. "Just fine, thank you. Allie doesn't seem to mind a bit my taking over her room again." He chuckled low. "Tells me that all that talk about Nathan snoring was just her teasing."

Julia giggled, and looked up at Nathan, who just shook his head. "I don't snore, Dad."

Allie looked at them both. "Well, you'll find out for sure in about two and a half weeks, Julia."

Allie shocked them all with that comment - Julia's head whipped around to meet Nathan's gaze, and they all burst out laughing.

Nathan had to tell her. "Allie, there are some things we mention, and some things we don't."

Allie just shrugged her shoulders. "Yea, but we're all Grants, or will be very soon. So, I don't have to filter." It was hard to argue with that. Allie was basically saying that they were all family, and she felt comfortable, in the context of their family. As she should.

Nathan still had to warn her, a little. "Yes, but you still need a tiny filter." He raised his hand and showed her, with about a half-inch measure using his pointer finger and thumb.

Julia just giggled at the two of them, and decided to change the subject. "What smells so good in here?"

Archie answered. "My famous beef stew."

Julia couldn't remember ever having tried it before. "Famous, huh?" If the smell was any indication, she could imagine why.

As they walked over towards the kitchen Allie filled her in. "Yes, famous. It's Irish, and really good." She paused. "He probably never made it for you before, because he didn't have all his spices."

Julia nodded. "So it's an all or nothing."

Archie chuckled. "Exactly. If I don't have all the spices, I can't bring myself to make it."

"Well, I can't wait to try it then." Julia told him.

From the kitchen, she helped bring everything to the table, bread, butter, water. She and Allie worked seamlessly, until everything was ready.

Then they all sat down together, for a family dinner. It had been a while, and they took the time to catch up with each other. Allie's work was going fine at the mercantile. She told them about seeing Mrs. Thornton and keeping Little Jack while she shopped. And about Florence's letting her work the till, and watch the shop sometimes, when she was out delivering mail or telegrams.

Archie told them all about his last weeks in Union City, and moving. His boss had been sad to see him go, but understood the need to be near family. He had managed to get out of his tenancy pretty easily, which was an added bonus. Today, after spending some time up at the new house, he had worked nearly all the day with Joseph and Lee, setting up things for their woodworking and furniture business. It would be a lot of work, but he was ready and willing. And Joseph had a line on a possible apprentice, though he wouldn't say just who yet.

Julia shared about getting Jimmy out to George's house and all set up for his recovery. She still couldn't talk about George's offer to take Jimmy in, without a slight quiver in her chin. It was so beautiful the way he wanted to honor his wife's legacy by doing what she would have done. William also seemed ready and willing to lend a hand to help Jimmy, which was surprising, since William had been scared of him before. A lot could change in a week's time.

And Nathan shared about Lee's driving lessons. He had practically finished everything in just two short lessons. He would need to have Bill certify everything for the Mounties, and send in some paperwork. But, he would be an official driver very soon. Julia piped in to brag on him, for the little she saw, he was an excellent driver. Not that anyone would have expected any less. But, it was affirming to hear her talk about him so proudly.

Then Nathan and Archie shared the news of the progress up on the house. They had ridden up together early in the morning, and Archie had stayed until time to meet Lee and Joseph. Things were coming along quickly. The foundation and most of the framing of the first floor was done. Next they would put in more floor joists and frame the second floor.

When dinner was done, Allie pulled out some cookies she had made after her shift, this afternoon. They were delicious, and Nathan rose and made coffee and tea to go with them. When the last cup was empty, Nathan and Julia rose to help with the dishes. Though, Archie shoo'ed them out- he knew they had homework from Joseph, and had things to discuss as part of their premarital counseling.

"Nathan, Julia, go on, now. Allie and I will clean up. You get to your homework, from Joseph." He told them, with insistence.

Nathan finally agreed, though reluctantly. He walked to the living room and picked up a leather-bound notebook he had set to the side, and led Julia outside to the front porch. The sky was just beautiful, so they sat on the top step together.

Nathan opened his notebook to Joseph's list of questions, and looked at Julia. She hooked her arms around her knees and smiled at him.

"What is it?" He asked.

"You are just so…studious." She teased. "I thought you claimed to have been a bit less…studious, in school."

Nathan gave her a sideways glance. "Perhaps I was a little bit remiss when it came to certain subjects, like math or geography." He said with a cute, crinkled up nose. "But my life with you I take a little more seriously, Miss Matthews."

Julia tilted her head and smiled at him. "I see." She teased. "I think your school teachers might feel just a little bit slighted to hear you say that, about math and geography."

Nathan chuckled. "No offense meant to them, or math, or geography." Then his gaze turned a little more serious. "But, they just can't compete with the subject of you…"

Julia reached over and took his hand. She threaded their fingers together, and held his gaze. How could he be so absolutely charming and absolutely wonderful, without even meaning to be?

He finally looked down at his notebook and asked her. "What shall we talk about first, children or finances?"

"You pick." She told him.

"Okay, children, then." He told her.

Julia wondered. "What are we supposed to talk about, related to children? Whether or not we want them?"

Nathan shrugged. "Or maybe how many?"

Julia titled her head and smiled. "Well you already told me that you made room for a dozen when you drew up our house plans."

Nathan laughed out loud. "I'm already thirty-two, Julia. I doubt I have enough time to have a dozen children."

Now it was Julia's turn to laugh. "Mr. Grant, don't you know even a little bit about the birds and the bees? Men can sire babies until they are a hundred years old."

Nathan laughed even more. "Well, I don't want to sire a baby when I'm a hundred. Ninety-nine, maybe. But, not a hundred. We should stop before then."

Julia laughed even harder. "I agree. Plus, when you're a hundred, I'll be ninety-four. So, the birds might have flown the coop by then."

Nathan looked at her cutely, brought her hand up to his lips, and held it dangerously close. "Well, I hope you'll forgive me, Miss Matthews. I might not have studied the birds and the bees in nursing school, but I do know a little about chemistry." When he finally kissed the back of her knuckles, she drew in a rapid breath.

Was he trying to distract her? Was this not supposed to be a serious discussion? She looked at him and tilted her head playful. "You would have made a great chemist, Mr. Grant. Or maybe it's just the nature of you and me."

He kissed her hand again. "It's definitely you and me." He paused. "We will make beautiful babies."

Julia swallowed hard, and tried to slow her racing heart. She cleared her throat. "We seem to have gotten off track, Lawman. Is that really one of Joseph's questions?" She challenged. "Better yet, is that what you are going to write down? Our love will make beautiful babies."

Nathan looked at her and blinked for a moment. He probably could not write that down.

In fact, he had not even realized how it sounded, until it was out of his mouth.

He shook his head and tried to return his senses. He distracted himself by looking down at his notebook. "Off track, indeed." He swallowed. "Back to the list, then." He avoided her gaze and read the first question aloud. "In an ideal world, how many children would you like to have?"

Julia looked out at the colors of the sky. Deep reds and oranges and pinks, in a million different hues, painted the heavens. And once again, she felt this sunset was just for them - her and Nathan. She knew her answer to his question already, in numeric form. But she got caught up dreaming as this beautiful masterpiece took form before her.

Now, there was not just a number in her head, but an image. And that image had come to her out of nowhere, and was clear as day. So, she described that image to Nathan. "There are two girls. One with straight brown hair and light brown eyes, just like Allie. And the other - she has velvety dark hair in long curly cues, and striking blue eyes, just like you." Nathan's mouth fell open slightly. "And the two boys. One with green eyes and sandy blond hair, he looks like my father." She tilted her head and looked at him, smiling now. "And the other. Well, this boy looks just like his father - in fact, he's the spitting image." And as she said it, she gave a featherlight brush of her finger, across his cute chin dimple.

Nathan was floored. He didn't speak for the span of a few seconds. His voice was shaky when he finally did. "You've…thought this out…"

Julia shook her head. "No, I glanced up at the colors in the sky, and the image just came to me." She looked out at the sky now. "Like a promise."

Nathan cleared his throat, in an effort to stave off the emotion that was most undeniably welled there now. "Really?…A promise?"

Julia nodded, confident of the words she had spoken. Every last one of them. "It sure felt like one."

Nathan's voice was betraying him now, but he managed to say just above a whisper. "I love that image." He swallowed and found his voice. He had one small protest. "But, why don't our children look more like you?" He asked her, as he reached up and lightly brushed her freckles with his thumb. "I want them to look like you."

Julia grinned even. "I guess your genes are stronger." She told him in a light tease. "Your turn, Nathan. What are your thoughts about children?"

"Well, I have to admit. I haven't an image as precise as you have." Nathan said honestly, and he was a bit thrown off now. He'd had his response all ready, but her's had been so much better. Had touched him to the core. "I just thought we would get married, enjoy our life together, and see how many children God gives us. Children are a gift, and I hope we will be given a few."

Julia encouraged him. "But, it's an exercise in dreaming, Nathan. Joseph did say, in an ideal world." Nathan seemed stunned for a split second. "I think he meant for us to dream." She told him softly, and Nathan looked out at the sky. "So if you are dreaming, Nathan, in your dream, how many children to we have?" Nathan's shoulders relaxed, and he continued to look out at the many colors, captivated now.

A memory came to his mind, another time when they had dreamt together. On the blanket near the stream. Julia had laid down and closed her eyes, and dreamt about their house, and it was just as he had drawn it out months before.

Now here she was again, encouraging him - to dream.

He closed his eyes, and was quiet for a long few moments, and then, of course, he teased her. "Oh, there are about a dozen."

Julia laughed out loud softly, and then gently chided him. "Divide that by half, or even in thirds."

He raised one eyebrow, opened one eye and fixed it on her. "We are back to math now, are we?" Nathan chuckled. "Is this because of what I said earlier, when I slighted math?"

Julia put her hand on his shoulder. "Seriously now, Nathan. Let yourself dream a little."

He closed his eyes again, and took a deep breath.

"Dream, Nathan." She spoke so softly, he almost didn't hear her say it.

And so, he did.

Julia waited, and he didn't say anything for a minute or more. Then he had his image. "You were right. There are two boys, and they are just as you described them. One looks like your Dad, and Jake for that matter, and the other looks like me." He paused for a moment. "But, you were slightly wrong about the girls. Well, sort of - you missed one." He told her. "I see three girls. One who looks like Allie, and by default, Colleen. And one who looks like me, with the long dark hair and blue eyes." He held her hand in both of his. "But there is one more little girl - and she is the most beautiful little girl I have ever laid eyes on. She has light sandy waves all the way down her back, and big, huge blue eyes. She has the cutest dimples when she smiles, and a light dusting of freckles right across the top of her cheeks." He opened his eyes. "She reminds me of someone I once saw in a photograph, sitting on the deck of a big sailboat named the Lily Grace."

Now it was Julia who was rendered speechless, her mouth slightly open.

"I take it you like my image?" Nathan asked softly.

"I love it." She held his gaze for a long time, unable to say more.

Then she realized something. "Wait. That would make…"

"Six children." Nathan told her. "Counting Allie."

"Is our house big enough for all those dreams?" Julia asked him cutely.

Nathan nodded. "Of course. All of our dreams are welcome."

Julia liked that. And she especially liked that Nathan had expressed his dream. Several times over the course of knowing him, she had gotten the distinct impression that he hadn't let himself dream very often. Perhaps the circumstances of his childhood had prevented him from taking the risk. But as long as she had anything to say about it, she would encourage him to dream whenever and however he wanted. And no matter how big he wanted.

"I like your dream." Julia told him.

Nathan smiled at her. "I like yours too."

"What would Allie do with all those…siblings?" Julia asked, curious.

Nathan chuckled. "Complain about having only one bathroom upstairs?"

Julia giggled at his cute response. "I'm sure she'd survive." She thought of something. "Wait. Does she even want siblings?"

Nathan nodded. "Oh yes. She would be thrilled with as many as you are willing to have, Mrs. Grant."

Julia looked at him. Mrs. Grant. How she liked that title already. "I think I like what you said best, Nathan. Children are a gift. And, I will take as many gifts as the Lord wants to give us."

Nathan lifted her hand to his lips again, and gently kissed it. "Me, too, Jules."

Julia looked down at his list. "Was that only the first question?"

Nathan chuckled. "Yes, it sure was. But, I think we covered the rest of the questions about children, with our answers to that first one. So, we managed to cover that topic pretty well."

Julia looked relieved about that. "And, what's next on your list."

"Finances. But, there are a few questions related to that topic." Nathan reached into his pocket and pulled out his watch. The hour was getting late. "Perhaps we could cover the next topic tomorrow?"

Julia nodded. "Okay."

Nathan fixed his gaze. "Actually, Julia. I wanted to ask you something."

"Sure, Lawman."

He looked suddenly shy, "Will you...go on a date with me?"

Julia smiled. "A date?"

"Yes. The wedding is near, and we've both been so busy." He explained. "But, we cannot forget to go on dates. It's the best part of courting." He smiled shyly at her, tried to make it sound more official. "Julia, will you please allow me to take you to dinner tomorrow night?"

"Yes. I would love to go to dinner with you." She told him. "It sounds…romantic."

"Then it's a date." He stood and helped her up. "Can I walk you home?"

Julia and Nathan returned inside, to say good night to Archie and Allie. Then Nathan gave Julia his elbow, and she looped her hand over and held on tight. They walked together under the moonlight.

Fresh on both of their minds was the sunset from earlier, which had been breathtaking - they had enjoyed every single hue, and dreamt together, underneath its myriad of color. Now, as Nathan walked her home, the colors of the sky had long since faded, but the dreams remained. They would always remain, between them.

And when they got to her door, Nathan kissed Julia again. He whispered his love, as wide as the sky. And she answered her love, as deep as the ocean.

(1)- Jeremiah 29:11, New King James Bible

(2)- Hebrews 13: 5, New King James Bible