Chapter 117. Love Makes a Mother

On Thursday morning, Julia stayed in bed. So much had happened since Auntie Elle arrived on Saturday. The days had flown by, busier even than expected, and she just needed time to sort it all through.

After church last Sunday, Julia and Elle had ridden up to the new house. Julia had given her aunt a tour of the land, walked her through the first floor of the house, and showed her where the barn would go. Then they'd sat on the swing, and enjoyed the view together. They shared a long, yet sweet time of talking, sharing, and catching up.

Then on Monday, Elle and Julia had ridden to Benson Hills. They had spent the entire day there, and done a LOT of shopping. Despite Julia's many objections, Elle had bought a myriad of dainty things for Julia, for her honeymoon - chemises, and various other pretty undergarments. Julia had blushed the entire time, but was grateful for her aunt's discretion and care to help her with such things. And now, well…Julia's honeymoon trousseau was full. So, Elle had ordered a nice big suitcase, for Julia to take on honeymoon. It would be sent to Yost's mercantile in Hope Valley, and was set to arrive on Friday.

Julia had made several stops of her own, and picked up several gifts she had ordered. The first was a gift for Allie, from both her and Nathan - something special from parents to a daughter, for the occasion of the adoption ceremony. And the other items she retrieved were all wedding gifts for Nathan.

On Tuesday, Elle had spent most of the day in the infirmary. Julia had taken the opportunity to show Elle the "in and outs" of the little Hope Valley infirmary, and to let her connect with Faith. Julia, Elle, and Faith had shared stories with one another, of nursing and medical school, of challenges, of certain ailments, and of course, new treatments. Fiona had joined them for lunch at the cafe, so it had truly been "a day in the life", as Julia lived it everyday, in her little town.

On Tuesday evening, Nathan and Julia had attended the parent-teacher meeting with Elizabeth Thornton. It was a simple meeting, and fairly straight-forward, since Allie had become such a good student. They discussed the accelerated math program, which Allie had already agreed to continue this school year, as well as a few other minor topics. When the meeting was over, Julia was at a loss as to what Elizabeth's hesitation had been, in the first place. But, no matter. Julia was just happy to be included in anything having to do with Allie.

On Wednesday, Elle had helped Julia pack. They spent most of the day putting what little Julia owned into boxes and crates, for her move to Nathan's row house. On Friday, Nathan and Archie were scheduled to come and move all those boxes to Nathan's.

So, packing had gone like this: Julia had first prepared a small suitcase for Saturday night, their wedding night, which they would spend at the row house. Then, Julia made a pile for the honeymoon, which would all go into that nice new suitcase, when it finally arrived; they would leave for their honeymoon by train, on Sunday morning. And anything and everything else, got packed into those boxes and crates destined for Nathan's.

After the wedding, Auntie Elle would stay a while longer, and spend some time with Jake. And Faith had offered to let her stay on in Julia's apartment, which she kindly accepted. So, Julia also left behind some things for Auntie Elle, things she would get later, once they were back from honeymoon.

All in all, it had been a crazy, busy week. And Julia hadn't even noticed the days fly by. They had been full and tiring, but so wonderful. Now, as she laid in bed and reflected on it all, it hit her that she would be married in just a few short days. Today was Thursday. And well, on Saturday…

Not to mention, tonight she would become a mother. Officially. Julia laid back in bed and stared at the ceiling. It was an absurd thought. She was not even married yet, and tonight she would adopt Allie? It had been scheduled that way purely for convenience sake. Julia and Nathan had both wanted their family members present, so everyone could be part of Allie's adoption ceremony. After the wedding would not be possible, since they would leave almost right away on honeymoon, and most of the family would be gone by the time they returned. So, tonight, before the wedding, had been the best option.

But somehow, at the very same time, it made perfect sense that the adoption would come first. From the moment she had met Allie, Julia had felt a bond. A strange sort of thread that joined them together. Maybe it was just like that for adoptive parents? Did everyone have a moment they could identify, when that magical bond had been formed, where those ties of relationship had hewn the first thread? Julia had no idea, but nonetheless, she just knew it was special. Plus, Allie reminded Julia so much of herself at that age, which was a strange thought for someone with absolutely no blood relation. But that correlation just made it ever so evident to Julia, that somehow, someway, Allie was meant to be hers.

Julia finally rolled over and looked around the room. Boxes and crates were everywhere. Her small suitcase lay open in one corner. And the random honeymoon pile, lay in another.

And then she glanced the other way. Elle was up and sitting at the table, quietly reading and drinking coffee. Julia turned on her side, snuggled into the pillow, and just watched her aunt. She was a strong powerhouse of a woman, though in a thin-framed package. Fierce and determined, just like her mother had been. Elle had overcome so many obstacles in her life - she had fought her way through medical school, tooth and nail, at a time when men were highly favored, and women had to work twice as hard to prove themselves. She had suffered a great loss when her Timothy died, but she had stayed the course and completed the dream - their dream - which was to build the medical practice. Then, she had taken on one epidemic after another in her rural New Brunswick, and gained not only notoriety but also favor. She was now a highly regarded physician in her region. Female or not. Patients often came a great distance, just to see her, sometimes with particularly strange or difficult cases, because she was just that good a doctor.

Julia was proud of her bold and courageous aunt, and couldn't be happier that she was here, present for such a time as this. Not only had they had the wonderful opportunity to catch up and connect, Elle had gotten to be a part of her life for almost an entire week. It was such a gift. And Elle would get to see her marry, which, given the fact that her mother and father were no longer around, meant a lot. And tonight, Elle would see her become a mother; the significance was overwhelming.

Elle finally looked up over the binding of that book, and noticed Julia awake. "Good morning, sleepy head."

Julia smiled at her aunt. "Good morning." Finally, she threw back the covers and moved. She stiffly made her way to the kitchen, and to her delight, found that the coffee pot was not yet empty. She served herself a cup, added her splash of milk, and joined her aunt at the table.

It was as if Elle could read her mind. "Are you nervous?"

"About tonight?" Julia took a sip.

Elle nodded.

Julia contemplated for a moment. "No, not really. Even if becoming a mother is a big step, somehow, it just feels...right." She paused and decided to share more. "Nathan has...inspired me. From the first day I met him. The way he took on Allie, treated her as his own, made her his own. It's one of the most beautiful things I have ever witnessed." Julia took another sip. "It made me fall in love with him all the more. And along the way, I fell in love with Allie too." She smiled shy. "And Nathan's story, their story, inspired me...to do the same. To be part of that story." Julia's eyes filled with tears. "I always wanted a mother." She blinked back emotion. "Now, I get to be that mother. It's beautiful."

Elle didn't know what to say. She felt a tear escape, wiped it, and took a sip of her coffee. Her niece was amazing, ridiculously and utterly amazing. And she was at a complete loss for words.

Julia hadn't meant for their conversation to turn so...emotional. She was sure there would be emotion enough tonight. A time for everything, so she tried to lighten the current mood. "Though. I could get nervous enough just thinking about standing up in front of all those people." In fact, the more she thought about it, the more she was.

Elle was glad for the recovery. "Oh, I think you will get over that as soon as the ceremony starts." Elle smiled soft. "Whatever is Bill going to say, anyway?"

"Well I've never been to one of these, so I don't know. But, I signed all the papers already. So technically, I think I am already a mother." Julia told her. "But, we're meeting with Bill at 2 p.m., to go over the details, how the ceremony will flow, and all of that."

Auntie Elle looked around, wanting to make herself useful. "Is there more packing to do?"

"I don't think so." Julia smiled. "But I do have some baking to do. Cookies and a cake, for the reception tonight at Nathan's, after the ceremony, if you'd like to help?"

Elle nodded slow. "Well, you know me and baking." She scoffed. "You might not want my help. Might be better off without it." She paused and chortled under her breath. "But, I'll try."

Julia sipped her coffee. "I'm sure you'll do just fine."

"Julia. Before that..." Elle stood and moved over to that huge trunk she'd brought along. "I have something for you."

Julia stood and joined her in front of the trunk, fully expecting her to open it and pull one small thing out. But, Elle didn't open it. She just motioned. "This is it."

Julia was confused. "The trunk?"

"Well, yes." Elle told her with a light chuckle. "And, everything in it."

Julia's mouth fell open. "Everything in it? The whole trunk?"

"Yes." Elle replied.

"Elle, whatever it is, it's too much." She scoffed. "You already bought my entire honeymoon trousseau."

"Julia." Elle placed her hand on Julia's arm, and told her firmly. "This trunk contains heirlooms, things that were passed down for generations, from my side, your mother's side, of the family. Things that I want to stay…in the family. An inheritance of sorts." She let that sink in. "Your mom inherited her portion of it, as I think you know, all of her part is at the house in Peggy's Cove. And I inherited my portion of it." Julia looked down at the trunk, flabbergasted.

Elle continued. "Since I don't have any children, I want to pass my part onto you, and to Jake." Her eyes filled with tears. "You two are the closest thing…I have…to children."

"Elle." Julia's eyes filled too. "I..."

Elle tightened her grip on Julia's arm. "It's what I want, Julia." She paused. "I want you...and Jake to have it."

Julia looked her in the eye and tried again. "I don't know what to say."

"Just say…thank you." Elle told her. "And use the things inside, for your dream house, with Nathan. There are handmade sheets and quilts, and dishes from my grandmother, and a tea set from my parents, your grandparents."

Julia smiled and let that tear fall. She couldn't believe it. "Thank you, Elle. Wow. It…means so much." She paused. "I...I can't wait to use it all." Though she thought of something. "Wait. What about Jake?"

Elle reassured her. "Don't worry. I've got another trunk for Jake, filled and ready."

Julia nodded slowly and brought her eyes back to her trunk. "May I look inside?"

"Well, yes." Elle told her softly. "I was hoping you would ask. I would love to show you everything inside, and explain where it came from."

Julia nodded gratefully. It meant so much to her already. "Thank you. Thank you, dear Aunt."

Julia wiped a second tear and pulled up two chairs. She watched as Elle slowly opened the trunk. And her heart was filled with thankfulness, to have such things from their family line, from her ancestors. "Thank you so much." She told Elle one more time, even before the first item was pulled out.

Elle pulled back the first quilt, and started explaining. Julia leaned over beside her, and listened intently. And so they spent the morning, taking a walk down memory lane, and completing a beautiful passing on, from one generation to the next.

In the evening, after everything was set up at the Grant house for the reception, Nathan and Julia, Allie, Rebecca, Charlie, and Auntie Elle walked together to the church. Archie would meet them there.

Charlie had gotten in late the night before, and Julia had been so happy to meet him this afternoon, when she'd arrived at Nathan's to set up for the reception. Physically, he was just as she'd imagined him: Charlie was about an inch shorter than Nathan, though that was still considered tall; and he was on the thinner side, with a cowboy's strong build. He was around sixty years old, and had graying hair that gave him a kind of salt-and-pepper distinguished look. He had kind eyes in the nicest shade of grayish-blue, and on either side of those eyes, he had soft creases from days spent in the sun. He was soft-spoken, gentle, and reserved, though Julia could tell, he could be firm when he needed to be, much like her Nathan. In fact, their temperaments seemed similar, which was perhaps why they had gotten along so well, and been so close, all those years on the ranch.

On the way to the church, Nathan held Julia's hand as they walked side by side. A ways behind them, Elle and Rebecca were deep in conversation, and farther back, Allie walked beside Charlie.

Since there was no one to overhear, Julia was finally able to ask. "How are things going with the proceedings for Jimmy?"

"We've been working hard on it all week. Bill and I have been on the phone with HQ nearly everyday, sometimes multiple times a day, trying to get it all sorted before Friday." Nathan had agreed to help out with this case until Friday, but then, well, he was getting married. So, they were trying to wrap up all the legalities before Nathan left on honeymoon.

"Any idea what's going to happen to him?" Julia asked softly.

Nathan looked over at her and smiled reassuringly. "Jimmy has information on a few high-profile criminals, at least two we've been trying to catch for a long time now." He paused. "I spoke with Timothy Bedford in Edmonton, and Constable Clement in Benson Hills. And Bill's spoken with Commander Collins several times, and one of his Superintendents as well." He smiled. "The NWMP doesn't want to pass up the opportunity to get some really bad guys off the streets, criminals that are much worse, much more dangerous, than Jimmy McIntosh." He paused and looked forward. "So, he will most likely be offered a plea deal, if he will agree to testify in two or three different cases, against criminals that are way worse than him, guys that have done horrible things and hurt a lot of people."

"Wait. So…he wouldn't go to prison?" Julia asked, shocked.

"Maybe not, though that's not one hundred percent sure yet. It could be that they only offer him a reduced sentence." He paused. "My recommendation, and Jake's, was that he be given a very long probation, with very strict stipulations. One slip up, even a minor one, and he would finish out his sentence in prison." Julia couldn't contain her smile, she liked this idea, and it showed. Nathan continued. "He has already agreed to pay any monetary restitution. He gave Jake all of his bank account details, and Bill has already frozen the account. If the deal goes through, those funds will be used for restitution, to pay back those he stole from."

Julia wondered about something. "What does Bill say?"

"Bill recognizes, more than anyone, that the original intent of our justice system was to rehabilitate prisoners. To turn them from their criminal ways, and put them on an honest path. To change them, motivate them to obey the law." Nathan explained. "Jimmy has already made that change. But, he needs to walk it out, and prove himself rehabilitated. Bill realizes that. And he agrees that prison might not be the best place for Jimmy to do that. So, I think he will agree to the deal. We haven't read his recommendation yet, but Jake and I are hopeful that he will make the same." He paused and looked out at the beautiful hills around them. "Jimmy committed minor crimes, misdemeanors. Timothy Bedford and his team in Edmonton, and the team in Benson Hills, are all eager to get some really bad guys off the street, guys that have committed felonies, major ones, and lots of them. They are all keen on it. Jimmy was never as dangerous as the two or three guys they would be able to put away, with his testimony. And the fact that Jimmy is cooperative, and confessed, goes a long way. His testimony would be credible, as well as consequential, to get these criminals."

Julia was hopeful. "And you think Jimmy will agree to testify? Against criminals that are…so dangerous?"

Nathan hoped so. "It will give him the opportunity to do something right, that will protect people. A way to sort of rectify his wrongs, at least in some measure." He smiled as they walked. "Yes, one of the criminals is dangerous, but Jake thinks we can protect Jimmy here, until the trial. And once the guy is in prison, Timothy doesn't think he will be a threat anymore."

Julia nodded. "Wow, you guys have been busy." She smiled at Nathan, so very happy about the way all this was going, for Jimmy's sake. "I really hope it works out."

Nathan agreed. "So do I. Bill has a lot of stipulations in mind, regarding his probation period, and community service. He has even mentioned writing in a stipulation that would specify a particular person to take responsibility for Jimmy, to watch over him during his probation period." He paused. "Bill is pretty strict when it comes to justice, and has some good ideas, about how Jimmy can pay his "debt to society"…outside of prison."

"Nathan, that sounds wonderful. I'm very thankful for the three of you." Julia smiled up at her handsome fiancé. "I knew you would find a way to do what's best…for Jimmy, but also for…everyone, for society at large."

Nathan smiled back at her. "Thank you for your vote of confidence."

Julia squeezed his hand. "Always." And they walked up the stairs and into the church.

When everyone was ready, Joseph walked to the back of the church and opened the doors. Everyone began filing in. Jake and Fiona came in together, then the Coulters, and the Yosts. Emily and her mother, Cat, Opal and her family; then Minnie, Angela, and Cooper. Next came Elizabeth, Little Jack, and Robert, with a bunch of Allie's friends from school, nearly the entire class, in fact. Then Molly and Faith walked in together, with Clara and Jesse just behind. And then, in walked Jimmy McIntosh, with William. Julia smiled to herself, happy that in the end, he had decided to come.

From the front row where he sat next to Allie and Julia, Nathan looked around, and then smiled at Allie. He was very happy about the turn out. She had done much better with her invitations this time around.

When everyone was seated and comfortable, Joseph stood and came to the front. He began. "Welcome, everyone. It is my joy to be here with you on this occasion. I know Nathan, Julia, and Allie would say the same. Today is a special day for them, a day they will look back on and remember with fondness. Thank you for joining and being a part of it." He paused and looked over. "Bill."

Bill stood and joined him up front. "Today is a special day for me, too. There are a lot of boring legal things I have to do as judge." That earned a small chuckle from the crowd. He looked at Allie and smiled. "But today, I get to be part of something special: the making of a family." He paused. "I know it might seem rather unconventional to hold the adoption ceremony before the wedding, but Allie really wanted all of you to be present. So, it seemed only fitting to schedule it while so many are in town for the wedding."

Bill looked at Nathan and Julia. "Nathan, Julia, and Allie, will you please join me up here?" They did. He looked over at them, then back at the crowd. "Families are made in many different ways. The most frequent is by birth, of course. But sometimes, in life, we are offered the opportunity to make a family. And that making is done by choice. Choosing to be together, and choosing one another. And that is a very special kind of family, too." He paused and looked at them. "Nathan and Julia will be married in a few days. So, they are destined to be a family anyway." He smiled. "But Julia has made a special request to adopt Allie. To not just take her as a step-daughter, but to seal Allie, as her own." Julia looked at Allie and smiled.

"Now, this might seem like a small difference to all of you. A simple legal act, to remove the "step" that comes before the word "daughter"." Bill paused again. "But, it is also an act of intention. It speaks of Julia's intention…to not just treat Allie as a step-daughter, but to make Allie her own...daughter." Bill paused for a moment. "It's a special thing for a daughter to find her place. And, in essence, Julia is making the statement, that Allie's place is with her, as much as it is with Nathan."

Allie looked up at Julia and Nathan, and her heart swelled. Julia wiped a tear that had inadvertently escaped.

Bill continued. "I will now execute my job as judge, and proceed with the pledges." He paused and looked at Julia. "Julia, will you please raise your right hand." She did. "Do you, Eleanor Julia Matthews, pledge to fill the role of mother to Allison Mayes Grant, to take her as daughter, and care for her needs, to the best of your ability?"

Julia replied. "I so pledge." Allie grinned from ear to ear.

"And do you promise to love her and to care for her, from this day forward?" Bill asked.

Julia replied. "I do." Allie smiled even bigger.

Bill smiled, too. "Now, Julia has asked to say something." He motioned for her to have the floor.

Julia turned to Allie and took a deep breath. She swallowed hard, and took Allie's hand in both of hers. "Allie, my mom died when I was two years old. So, I'm sorry to say, I didn't have an example of what it looks like to be a mother. The truth is, I might not be very good at being a mom. At all." Her bottom lip quivered, and well, so did Allie's. "You might be getting a bum deal." A tear escaped as Julia grimaced shyly.

But Julia kept going. "But if you'll have me, this I will promise you: I will do my very best." She sniffled. "No matter what, I will always have your best interest at heart." She paused and took another deep breath. "And Allie, you can always talk to me." She leaned closer and joked softly. "So if ever I'm not doing a good job, you can just tell me how I can do it better."

Allie laughed, as did most of the crowd. Many were already wiping their eyes and pulling out their handkerchiefs.

"Allie, I guess what I'm trying to say is that...I will love you. And with love, comes wisdom…and I have faith that wisdom will guide me, and help me be your mom." Julia smiled shyly.

Then, she reached into her belt and pulled out a tiny folded up piece of paper. Bill looked confused.

So Julia explained. "I wrote down my pledge, was I not supposed to do that?" Another soft chuckle from the crowd. Julia glanced at Nathan, who just smiled proudly.

Julia just focused. She unfolded, and then unfolded the paper again. Bill watched her adoringly, chuckled under his breath, and waved his hand, giving her permission to continue.

Julia sniffled again and did just that. She looked down at her paper and began to read. "Allie, when you need: a hand to hold, a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen, a heart to share with, I'll always be there for you." She looked up at Allie, who was wiping her eyes now.

She continued. "And Allie, whether you need someone to walk quietly beside you, or a cheerleader to cheer you on from afar, or even a little push from behind, in order to scale the mountain you're facing, I'll be there for you." Julia wiped one of her own eyes.

There was more. "No matter where you go, no matter what you do, I will always be there for you. I will always love you. No matter what. Without condition."

Julia looked up from her paper, and finally said. "That is my pledge to you. As your mother."

Allie went quickly into her arms, and they cried together. They held each other for a long time, and Bill just stood there, at a loss. There was not a dry eye in the room; everyone was sniffling and wiping, and looking around at each other. Some were shifting in their seats, and some blew noses.

Finally, Julia pulled back, but kept a hold of Allie. She looked up at Bill, at a loss of where to go from here.

"Ladies, this isn't over yet." Bill told them coyly. Allie and Julia both smiled.

And Julia apologized, "Sorry, Bill."

"There is one more thing. If you all can handle it?" Bill looked out at the crowd, who were still wiping eyes, but seemed ready to proceed. Several people nodded, and that was enough.

So, Bill continued. "When Nathan adopted Allie last year, we held an adoption ceremony in my office. And well, there was a…little mishap…with the invitations. So, since you are all here, Nathan would like to take this opportunity, to publicly restate his own pledge to Allie, made back then."

Allie's mouth fell open, and she looked up at her father. He turned to her and looked her in the eye. Bill gave him the floor.

"Allie, last year, when we were preparing for your adoption ceremony. Do you remember the one thing you asked me to say?" Nathan asked gently.

Of course, Allie remembered. "I asked you to say…that you would never leave me."

Nathan took a deep breath. "Yes. And I said that. I pledged that I would never leave you." He smiled. "But I would also like to add to my pledge." He told her. Allie suddenly looked shy, but Nathan continued. "I also want to pledge to you…that I will always be there for you, no matter what. I will listen to you and guide you, and always do my best to give you good advice. I will protect you, and provide for you, and take care of you. And I will always love you, Allie girl. Unconditionally, without question, wherever you are."

Allie wiped her eyes again. Then she went into Nathan's arms. He held her tight, and did that cute little twirl that he sometimes did when he held her. Allie stayed right there until she was sure she could hold it together, without crying, in front of the crowd.

And slowly, she pulled back, and looked up at him. "Thanks, Dad." She whispered.

He told her back in a whisper. "I love hearing that name." She smiled. "It's the best name…that I've ever been called." Allie hugged him again. Nathan pulled Julia into the hug with them, and the three embraced for a very long time. And of course, because Nathan was holding them both, there was that twirl the entire time.

Bill cleared his throat. "What's a judge to do? When the proceedings are completely off track?" And that got a collective chuckle from the crowd. He shrugged. "I didn't think I would need my gavel." More welcome laughter erupted.

The trio pulled back from their embrace, and stood in a line, holding hands, with Allie in the middle.

Bill looked at them, and smiled. A flashbulb went off. Julia, Allie, and Nathan looked up at Fiona, who had just snapped a photo. Julia had completely forgotten, a long while back, she had asked Fiona to take a picture, though they had only discussed a family photo at the very end of the ceremony.

Bill decided to take back control. "As judge of these proceedings, I declare that you, Allison Mayes Grant, are now officially adopted by Nathaniel Sullivan Grant, and Eleanor Julia Matthews, soon to be Grant. They are officially your parents, and you are officially their daughter." The crowd applauded happily. Jake let out a few whoops, which earned a big smile from both Allie and Julia.

Standing up there, as everyone applauded, Allie looked proud, and she smiled the biggest, happiest smile that Julia had ever seen.

When the noise calmed, Bill addressed the crowd. "Joseph has a blessing he would like to read over this family."

Joseph came and stood on the other side. "For this part, I would like to invite the extended family to come and join the Grants up front. Archie, Rebecca, Eleanor, and Jacob." They all came and stood around Nathan, Julia, and Allie.

Joseph opened his bible to Numbers chapter 6. "The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." He paused, and said. "Let's pray." Everyone bowed their heads. "Lord, we thank you for this new family that you have created. We pray that you will pour out your blessing upon them, as they walk together through life, in the beautiful bond of family. We pray you will always give Nathan and Julia wisdom to be good parents, and may you always keep Allie's heart soft and open, to the love and guidance of her parents. And may this family grow in love and unity throughout the years. Amen."

Joseph looked around the room. "This concludes our ceremony. Nathan, Julia, and Allie have prepared a reception at their house, with refreshments and sweets." He looked over at Allie and smiled. "The family would be honored if you would join them, and continue the celebration."

Allie turned around and hugged Julia once more. They embraced for a long time. Then Allie hugged her Dad. He whispered sweet father things in her ear, before he let her go. Then Allie moved to the other family members, Grams, Archie, Auntie Elle, and Jake, and gave them all a warm embrace. Then she started to move through the crowd. To Charlie, and others, and then to her friends.

The crowd slowly but surely made their way over to Nathan's row house. Once inside, the many guests mingled and enjoyed the refreshments. Nathan couldn't remember ever having so many people in his home. They'd had a large crowd for Allie's surprise birthday party, but that had been at the Canfield's. And Nathan wasn't sure which had been the bigger turnout, that party or this one.

Nathan intentionally left all the doors open, front and back, so guests could also mingle in the yard, sit on the porch, or get comfortable in the chairs in the backyard. He moved through the crowd with Julia and Allie, and spoke to everyone, accepted all the many congratulations. Allie was positively beaming. He couldn't remember her ever looking so happy. It made his heart full just thinking of what this day must mean for her. She now had two parents, a dream she had held in her heart for a very long time.

Several times, as they mingled, Nathan glanced at Julia, who was holding tight to his arm. She too, was absolutely glowing, and it made his insides flutter just looking at her. How could such an amazing, wonderful woman want to make a family with him? It was still a mystery, but one he didn't plan on pondering for very long. He'd decided a while ago to stop asking why, and just accept the blessing for what it was. Exactly that: an immense, incomprehensible blessing. And once he'd accepted it, he could devote his energy into doing his very best to make her happy, the same way she seemed to be content, and even intent, on making him happy.

In between guests, as they walked from the kitchen to living room, Julia stole a glance at Nathan, and realized he was watching her. She smiled up at him and asked. "What is it, Lawman?"

He smiled crooked down at her. "I'm just contemplating."

She scoffed. "That's very…dangerous. What are you contemplating, my love?"

"How someone like you fell in love with someone like me?" Nathan said so simply.

Julia didn't miss a beat. She just said right back, as matter of fact as she could muster. "How could I not?"

Nathan chuckled low and kept his gaze on her. "That's the mystery."

Julia giggled low. "There's no mystery, my love. You're the one for me. Simple as that." And he placed his hand ever so gently on top of hers, in the crook of his elbow.

"That easy?" He asked, with a shrug.

"That easy." She reminded him.

Julia added. "Although, like any solid relationship, there were a few bumpy moments." She chuckled low. "You gave me a scare once, remember? And, you got upset with me, too, that one time?"

Nathan looked at his feet and chuckled. "How did I ever get upset with you?"

Julia opened her mouth and was going to remind him, but of course, he remembered. He had meant the question to be rhetorical. So he beat her to answering. "Never mind. Don't remind me. I don't want to remember how I was slightly bull-headed during that storm."

"You were not bull-headed." Julia defended him. "You were handsomely and momentarily…" She squinted her eyes and tried to find the right word. "…stubborn."

"Thank you for that…gracious summation." He smiled down at her, still holding tight to her hand, which was holding tight to his arm. "I'm sorry…for giving you that scare."

Julia nodded slowly and got serious. "I don't know what I would do without you, Mr. Grant." She smiled a dimple. "I've become rather…attached to you."

He smiled playful. "Well, I'm happy to hear that, because…I'm rather attached to you." He led her out into the backyard. Fiona and Jake were sitting in their chairs, but didn't even look up when they walked out. "Jules, can I show you something?"

Julia nodded, and so, he led her into the workshop. Inside was the arbor that Nathan and Archie had built for the wedding. "What do you think?"

Julia looked it over. "It's so beautiful." She walked slowly around it, inspected it, took it all in. "You and Archie built this? Just for our wedding?"

Nathan watched her, his gaze moved between the slats of the arbor, followed her as she walked. "Yes. Though…" She looked up and met his eyes as he explained. "I plan to put it in our garden, up at the big house…after."

Julia continued walking around the arbor until she met him on the other side. She stood just before him, and told him softly. "I love that idea."

Nathan smiled down at her, and moved closer. "I have a confession to make."

Julia looked up at him, curious. "A confession? What kind of confession?"

He motioned with his head to the right. "I wasn't supposed to show you the arbor yet."

"What do you mean?" She questioned. "Wasn't I going to see it tomorrow morning, anyway? When we meet by the pond, to decorate it?"

Nathan laughed, his eyes were still fixed on her. "Yes. But, what I mean is…" He squinted one eye to get it out. "I might have used the arbor as an excuse to lure you in here." He swallowed. "To get you alone."

Julia understood. "Oh, really. And just why did you want to get me alone?" She looked up at him, unashamed. He placed one hand on her cheek, fingers into her hair.

He leaned down and brought his mouth dangerously close to hers. Every hair stood up on end. And he breathed. "So I could do this." And his lips claimed hers. Julia's one hand came up to his neck and rested just under his jawline. The other went around his waist and pulled herself in closer. As the kiss deepened, her hand moved around behind his neck. Nathan leaned in closer too. As his lips moved over hers, he expressed all of the love that overflowed from his heart. He felt full, too full, bursting and overflowing. And he just needed to share this kiss, simple yet profound, with the woman who had completely ravaged his heart. Nathan pulled back just enough to tell her. "I love you, deeply, my Jules."

Julia answered quickly. "I love you, too, Nathan." And she moved and brought her lips to his once more. She let one hand come to his cheek as she kissed him. And when she'd had her fill of his tenderness, she took one more taste, and then, let their lips disconnect.

She looked into his eyes and saw the desire right there, so close, yet held back like a team of horses, waiting for right moment. The moment that was right around the corner. She felt that same desire, it was now a huge sea-swell inside her. As if he could read her mind, he told her. "Two days."

Julia breathed. "Two days." It wasn't very long. "And all of me, will be…all yours."

Nathan swallowed. He didn't even know what that meant, but everything inside of him was burning to find out. He touched her face and traced those freckles. His mind inadvertently went to the freckles that dotted her shoulders. He couldn't wait to trace them, too.

He didn't recognize his own voice. "Maybe we should…go back in." Nathan knew it was the prudent thing to do, though he didn't want to. Not one bit. He wanted to stand out here with her, in this shed, for the rest of the evening.

Julia swallowed. "Maybe you're right."

Nathan took her hand, and threaded their fingers together. He lifted her hand to his lips, and planted a featherlight kiss on the back. Julia's sharp intake of breath made his eyes meet hers. And he did the wise thing - he didn't waste another minute, but led them out of the shed.

This time, as they passed Jake and Fiona, both looked up. "Where you two been?" Jake inquired.

Nathan glanced back towards the shed. "I was just showing Jules the arbor my dad and I built, for the wedding altar."

Jake took one look at his sister, saw her flushed cheeks, and the fire in her eyes. "Mmmhmm." He surmised. "Must be some arbor." He glanced over at Fiona, who had also noticed the color on both Nathan and Julia's faces. "Maybe I'll take Fiona in there, and…show her the arbor." Fiona's mouth fell slightly open and her cheeks blushed pink.

"Jacob Matthews." Fiona tried to sound stern. It didn't work very well. She looked off into the mountains and tried to keep a straight face.

"You should, Jake." Nathan encouraged, as he fought to contain a very mischievous smile. "It's some…" He chortled as he said it. "arbor."

Jake looked at Fiona again and teased. "Maybe I will."

Nathan glanced at Julia, whose mouth was now agape, and whose cheeks were blushing redder by the second. "Well, suit yourself." He said quickly, and pulled Julia on toward the house. When they got in the back door, he made a bee-line for the punch bowl. He picked up two cups and handed one to Julia.

They both took a nice cool drink, and caught their breath. Cooled down. And then, big mistake - Julia looked over the top of her cup at Nathan Grant. And she couldn't help herself, something about the situation just tickled her - and she cracked up laughing. Nathan's eyes immediately met hers, and he caught the bug - he cracked up, too. And there they stood, laughing together in the middle of the party. They managed to be fairly quiet at first, but the more they laughed, the more impossible it was to control themselves. Soon, heads started turning in their direction. But still, they couldn't stop. And soon, those next to them started laughing, too. Sometimes, laughter is like that…it's just...contagious. Allie approached, wanted to know what was so funny. But by the time she got the first word out, she was sucked in, and laughing with them, too. More and more joined in, and pretty soon, everyone around them was laughing. And most people had absolutely no idea why.

Finally, after a little while, when everyone and everything, calmed down, Allie whispered to Julia. "What was so funny?"

Julia just looked around the room at all their friends, and shrugged her shoulders. She glanced up at Nathan as she answered quietly "Allie, sometimes, happiness just boils over."

Nathan smiled, too. "Yes, sometimes it does."

And Allie agreed. "I know what you mean."

Now that Nathan and Julia had returned from the backyard, and things were…back under control, Minnie brought out the cake. She placed it in the middle of the table, for all to see. Written in icing, on the top of the cake, were the words, "Congratulations Grant family."

Julia looked at Minnie. "It's so beautiful Minnie, thank you."

Minnie passed the knife to Allie, and asked her. "Would you do the honors, Allie?"

Allie looked up at Nathan. "Really?" He nodded.

And Allie went to work, taking great effort to make the pieces even and straight. As she made plates, Nathan and Julia passed them out. Nathan even took two pieces out back to Jake and Fiona, who were still sitting in the chairs and talking.

Julia served Elizabeth and Little Jack. Then came back with two more plates, for Jimmy and William who were standing nearby.

When Julia left for more plates, Elizabeth moved closer to the coffee table, so Jack could set his cake down there. And she found herself standing almost directly next to someone she'd never officially met before, which didn't happen very often in Hope Valley. Jimmy looked up awkwardly, so she greeted him. "Hello. I don't believe we've met formally. I'm Elizabeth Thornton."

Jimmy smiled kindly. "I'm Jimmy McIntosh."

Elizabeth glanced at William, who she knew from Gustave's, though back then, it had been Lucas' saloon. William had helped out in there, from time to time, for big parties or when Lucas had been short-handed. "Hello again, William."

"Good evening, Mrs. Thornton." William replied with a kind smile. "Little Jack Junior is growing so big."

She looked down at her son affectionately, as he devoured the chocolate cake. "Yes. Yes, he is."

At the mention of the name Thornton, an old, much buried memory floated right up to the surface, for Jimmy. And then, when William said Jack Junior, he was sure. "Wait a minute." He glanced over at William. "Thornton." Jimmy brought his gaze back to Elizabeth. "Thornton, as in Jack Thornton? The Mountie?"

Elizabeth's face lost color for a second, and she saw the kindness in Jimmy's eyes. Her voice was quiet but softly imploring. "You knew my husband?"

Jimmy nodded slow and sought to calm any worries. "Yes. Yes I did." He smiled kind. "It was…a long time ago." He explained. "I was…just starting to make my way into…trouble, if you catch my meaning." He told her. "Jack arrested me, a ways outside of Benson Hills. Had every right to, I was picking a fight with a younger boy. It was all over a very small sum of cash the boy owed me. It was petty really, but I was trying to…instill fear." He looked down at his feet, then brought his eyes back to meet Elizabeth's. "But your husband was kind to me. He…tried to talk some sense into me. Thought he'd done it, too. Let me go."

"Jack…did that?" Elizabeth's eyes filled with tears.

Jimmy nodded. "He came 'round quite often, tried to encourage me…onto a better path." He told her. "He kinda kept his eye on me." He looked down at his hand. "He always told me if I needed anything. If I wanted…out…he would help me. And, he tried, too." Jimmy told her. "But, I was stubborn, just wasn't ready." Elizabeth was glued to his every word. "And then…out'a nowhere…well, Jack stopped coming around. Just disappeared." He pursed his lips. "I never knew what happened to him, 'til sometime later." He bowed his head slightly. "I'm real sorry about your loss, Ma'am. Jack was a real fine man, and a real fine Mountie."

A single tear escaped and slowly rolled down Elizabeth's cheek. She was so caught off guard by what this man had shared, this story of her husband, such a simple memory, that it took her a while to even realize and wipe that tear. Though, finally she did. And she replied just above a whisper. "Yes. Yes, he was."

Jimmy bent down in front of little Jack. "Hello, Jack Junior. I knew your father."

Jack immediately put out his hand for a shake, as what his habit, as of late. "It's nice to meet you. What's your name?"

Despite the chocolate mess, Jimmy shook Little Jack's sticky hand. "I'm Jimmy. Your father was a real fine man, and an excellent Mountie."

Jack just kept on shaking, didn't seem to want to let go. "Thank you for telling me."

Elizabeth shifted on her hip, and chuckled light, not really sure how to take this adorable interaction. Another tear escaped, and she found herself fighting hard to hold it together.

Jimmy looked up and told her. "He's the spitting image, apart from that blond hair."

"Yes. Yes, he does look like his father." She smiled as Jimmy stood up again. She handed him a napkin. "The blond hair is the one thing he got from my side of the family. My hair was lighter, when I was younger."

"He's really cute." Jimmy told her, as he wiped the chocolate from his hand. "I'm sure his daddy would be real proud."

Another tear. "Thank you, Mr. McIntosh…um…Jimmy, for saying so. I think he would be, too."

William told her. "I remember how nice Jack was when he'd come by on rounds. He almost always spoke to us kids, and would sometimes even play with us."

Of course, Elizabeth remembered how wonderful Jack was with kids. She remembered all too well. "I didn't know you knew Jack, William."

"We lived pretty far out of town back then, so Mom took care of my schooling. But we all loved your husband, and looked forward to him coming round." William told her.

Jack had just finished his chocolate cake, and his hands were still quite messy. Elizabeth noticed just in time. A mother's reflex, she grabbed both of her son's hands by the wrists. "I'm sorry. I just need to go clean this little guy up. Would you please excuse me for just a moment?"

"Sure, Ma'am." Jimmy responded, and off she went to the washbasin.

When Elizabeth came back, little Jack was all clean. "Thank you both for sharing such nice things about my late husband. I really appreciate hearing your stories."

William told her. "I'm sorry I never shared with you sooner. It just…never seemed the time."

Elizabeth nodded, understood. "And now was the time." She smiled warmly at both of them.

Jack took off in the direction of Rosemary and Lee, who were sitting on the settee. "Well, if you will excuse me, I better keep up with my little guy."

Jimmy nodded. "Have a nice evening, Mrs. Thornton." And off she went, noticeably affected by what had just happened.

When most of the friends had gone home, and only family was left, and gathered around the living room, Julia went to the corner. She pulled out two gifts, all wrapped up. Allie was sitting on the settee next to Nathan, so Julia laid them on the coffee table in front of her.

Allie glanced over at the pretty wrapped presents and blinked twice, before it registered. She looked up at Julia. "For me?"

Julia nodded.

Allie looked at her dad, who nodded too. He seemed to be in on it. "But what's the occasion?"

Julia sat in the chair next to her. "Your adoption, of course."

Allie scoffed. "But, shouldn't I be giving you gifts? You're the one whose now going to have to do all the…parenting."

Julia giggled. "Having you for a daughter is gift enough, Allie."

Rebecca smiled as she looked on. Auntie Elle smiled too. Jake, Fiona, and Archie, who had been deep in conversation, noticed the gifts and moved closer.

"Well then, I don't need any gifts, either." Allie told both Julia and Nathan.

Nathan scoffed. "If you say so." He stood and started to take them back, teasing her.

"Wait!" Allie said suddenly. She was mildly curious now. "Maybe I should just, see what's inside?"

Nathan chuckled long. "Yes. Yes, maybe you should." He sat back down beside her.

Allie scooted to the edge of the settee and opened the first package, a fairly large box. She pulled back the tissue paper and found inside…a large painter's canvas, though it was completely new. Allie lifted it out of the box and glanced at Julia. A blank canvas…ready for possibilities. As she held it out, she instantly saw images.

And then, Allie looked down and realized there was something else in the package. Hidden under the blank canvas - was a wooden box. A very lovely handcrafted wooden box. Allie set the canvas to the side and looked at Nathan. He smiled.

Allie lifted out the wooden box, and opened it. Inside were many handcrafted shelves, that fit inside, laid one on top of the other. Some of the first ones were were double hinged and pulled up and out of the box, like little extensions. It was a very well designed innovation, one that her father had obviously crafted. And every shelf had been filled with artists tools: one shelf held a very nice and expensive set of paintbrushes, the lower shelves were full of paints in every color. Another shelf, one that also lifted out, held drawing pencils, charcoals, and fader brushes. The very bottom held handmade wooden palettes, which also lifted out so Allie could fill them with paint. And another last shelf held various other artist's tools. Everything Allie needed to fill that canvas with color, was contained in this beautiful box. It was all complete, and it was all hers.

Allie glanced up at Julia and smiled. Julia told her. "It's yours, to create. The sky is the limit."

She looked at Nathan. "Dad. This is amazing. You designed this?"

Nathan nodded. "With Julia's help. She explained everything you would need to get started."

Allie thought it was just wonderful. "You will need to make her one, too." And Allie could tell by the look on his face, that he already had - or was at least working on it.

Julia looked down at the floor and then back up. "Allie. I was hoping that…perhaps…painting could be something, that we could do together. If you'd like."

Allie nodded happily. "Yes. Yes, I would love that." And she stood from the couch and wrapped her arms around Julia. "Thank you so much, I love it." She pulled back just a little. "And I would love to paint with you…and learn from you."

Julia smiled. She wanted that too. Allie turned and hugged Nathan. "Thanks, Dad. I love the box. It's so creative."

He held her for a long time, and then realized something. He told her. "Allie, there's one more gift."

Allie turned and looked, and sure enough, there was one more box. A smaller one this time. She sat back down on the couch and unwrapped the paper. Though, she stopped halfway through and asked. "Who is this one from?"

Nathan replied. "Same. Julia and I."

Allie nodded and went back to unwrapping. She got the paper open, then pulled the tiny lid off the tiny box. She slowly pulled back the cotton. And inside, was an exquisite, dainty gold necklace…with a single pearl pendant. Allie's mouth fell open. "A pearl? A real pearl?"

Julia nodded. "Pearls are a treasure, Allie. Just like you."

Allie looked up at her, with tears in her eyes. "I've read about them."

Nathan asked her. "Do you know how pearls are made?"

Allie nodded. "A single grain of sand gets blown into an oyster's shell."

Nathan continued. "Yes. And it's a tough spot that oyster is in. He doesn't like the sand, it's a point of hardship for him. So, he slowly makes it more bearable. Enrobes that hard sand, with something he can stand."

Julia told her. "And the end result is something very valuable."

Allie like that. "It's incredible."

"So first, we wanted to give you a pearl, so you would have something to wear, something always with you…there to remind you of the treasure you are to your Dad and I." Julia told her.

Nathan added. "But second, we thought of the pearl because of the story of how they are made. How a simple hard thing gets transformed into something valuable." He smiled. "We want you to always remember that fact - that every hard thing has the potential to be transformed into something valuable, and wonderful." He paused and let that sink in. "And we are always here to help you and guide you, from here on out."

Allie loved the significance and the story of pearls. Ever since she had first read about them, Allie had secretly wanted one. She plucked the necklace from the box and held it in her hand. The pearl was so beautiful. She turned it over and inspected it. She could easily see why it was so valuable.

Allie looked at Nathan and then at Julia. With emotion, she whispered. "I love it."

Nathan held out his hand, and she gave it to him. He leaned over and put it around her neck. He clasped it carefully.

Allie looked down at the beautiful pearl hanging around her neck. She touched it, and fumbled it. Couldn't believe it was hers.

Then Allie stood and came to hug Julia again. As Julia held her, Allie whispered. "Thank you so much."

After, Allie hugged her Dad once again. She whispered softly and sincerely. "Thanks, Dad."

And Nathan just held her and replied softly. "You're welcome, Allie girl. You are always more than welcome."