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Chapter Fourteen
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Milestones for the Mountie
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Bright sunshine awakened Nathan on this Saturday morning. He had forgotten to pull the window curtains last night as he dreamily glanced out on the dark fields awaiting harvest and the myriad of stars overhead.
This morning he kept his eyes closed to give thanks for this day and ask God's guidance in his decisions. He kept adding to his 'gratitude list' as he arose and dressed for quick rounds before returning to awaken Allie for their big day.
Rather than take time to make coffee at home, Nathan slipped into the kitchen door of the Café and left with whispered thanks and a cup of the steaming brew. Inhaling deeply, Nathan added the fragrance and the taste of coffee to his ongoing list of things for which he gave thanks and slowly made his way to the Livery, careful to keep from spilling. It was a practiced art that Mounties acquired in training, although it wasn't taught by instructors! The Cadets themselves, needing the jolt of coffee to awaken and focus on their day when sleep-deprived, passed along the tricks to other Cadets from class-to-class.
As soon as he had enjoyed most of the cup, Nathan mounted Newton and, nudging him to gain some speed, they set off to check on outlying farms and homesteads. Always alert, another trick he had learned was entertaining his private thoughts while scanning and observing his surroundings. Today, his thoughts bounced from purchasing a new vehicle to purchasing land and as he returned to the livery, Nathan decided to discuss some possibilities with Lee since they had a substantial drive ahead today.
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Upon his return home, the fragrance of baked goods filled Nathan's senses and his heart with anticipation. Finding Allie in the kitchen, fully dressed and protected by a gingham apron while stirring porridge, Nathan gave her a side-ways hug. "What smells so good, Allie-girl? You got up early!"
"Molasses ginger muffins, Dad. I thought we could bring some on our trip and keep a few for tomorrow before church. We may not return in time to bake tonight."
"I think that is a stellar idea. Shall we pack some jars of lemonade in a carton?" Nathan asked as he shed his serge and headed upstairs to change clothes in his bedroom.
"Good idea. I laid out an outfit for you, by the way." She called after him, giggling and wondering what her father's reaction would be. She was not disappointed as he called from the top of the stairs.
"Am I really such a poor dresser that I need your assistance on regular days, Allie?" Laughing, he missed her response as he returned to his room. Nathan assumed maybe he did need her input and today really was not an ordinary day!
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Returning downstairs, Nathan placed his light grey suit coat and blue patterned tie over the back of the sofa and headed towards the kitchen.
A quick perusal by Allie gave her a happy smile. "You look really good, Dad. Doctor Faith will definitely approve of blue and grey and you'll impress the owner of the auto sales business too. Even if you want to remain unbuttoned for now, will you please wear the tie there and again when we go to dinner tonight?"
"That was my intention all along, Honey!" Nathan winked as, after donning his apron, he collected five Mason jars from the shelf and their rubber seals from a drawer. Allie had already washed the lemons, made 5 curls from the yellow rinds and sliced them in half.
Collecting the reamer from the drawer Nathan enjoyed preparing the lemons while Allie added sugar and the decorative peel. After adding water, and shaking the jars, Nathan set them carefully in a wooden carton which Allie had lined with a thick towel. Wrapping the cooling cupcakes in a linen towel, Allie tucked them in the carton and quickly joined her father for porridge.
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On the way to Benson Hills, the Grants, Faith and the Coulters laughed and sang and chatted.
"Lee. You mentioned land that would allow us to be neighbors. Tell me where this is located and could you please describe the parcel?" Nathan requested, aware the ladies were conversing in the back seat.
With a quick glance at his wife visible in the rearview mirror he sent an arrow prayer to heaven. "Uh okay. I own the land and it borders the Sterk orchard. Woods fill the back third of the property, climbing the mountain a ways. A brook tumbles down, a modest waterfall that swells in the springtime, into a narrow river flowing across the back at the base of the mountain. The other two thirds of the land are relatively flat, although a couple trees may need to be felled depending on the size of house. The views are lovely since it is on a slight plateau. By orienting a house a certain way, you could have the protection from the north winds on the back of the house, see sunrises and sunsets from either side and get full sun on the front. I actually own five parcels there and would keep the two outer ones undeveloped. Two of the inner properties are closest to the waterfall and the sounds are soothing."
"This sounds like a dream, Lee. Is the river fishable?"
Laughing, Lee admitted. "You will have to determine that, Nathan. I am not a fisherman! You are welcome to go anytime this fall and test it out yourself."
"I just might. So no one knows about this treasure? Maybe Bill knows?" Nathan asked, curious.
"Bill knows, yes. Unbeknownst to either of us, we both placed a bid on the land when the province was encouraging development in these parts. I won, although I never asked what he offered. Maybe it was because Coulter's Lumber owns a hefty portion of the mountain already? We've been selectively harvesting the trees for a couple of years."
"I had no idea, Lee. You used the word selectively. Is that why the lumber cuts are not visible from town?"
"Yeah. I confess I go against prevailing thought on how to acquire timber. I pick and choose the trees to fell, although it is a time-consuming process. It allows for healthy growth of the trees left behind and retains the natural beauty. I could make more money by clear cutting, but that would scar the land."
"Ummm. I have seen the aftermath of that and mudslides can be a sad result. I'm impressed, Lee. I know little about the industry, but I hope others can learn by your example. Has the mountain above this property been culled?"
"Yes. We approached from the side, but thinned it out two years ago. I confess some lumber from that process remains above one of the outer properties so could be available for building."
"Why have you waited to build?" Nathan queried, realizing the audience in the back seat was attentively listening. "It sounds so ideal."
Clearing his throat, Lee was ready to respond when Rosemary confessed. "He waited because of me. I didn't want to move there alone and didn't want to leave the row house with Elizabeth and young Jack next door. Since it is just the two of us, Lee was willing to accommodate me." Rosemary continued softly. "With how things have changed now, I would be willing to discuss the property… Especially if you would be our neighbor, Nathan."
"Ah ha. Maybe you can give us a tour, Lee? I would love to see it." Nathan glanced over the seat to catch Faith's look of interest.
Allie was fairly dancing in the back seat and piped up her interest as well. "I love this idea!"
"It's not a set arrangement, Honey, but it has piqued my interest." Nathan took a deep breath as there were so many possibilities on the horizon. "Right now we have a car to procure!"
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Finding a parking spot near the park, Lee suggested they enjoy their muffins and lemonade as a picnic before the serious shopping began. Her arm in his, Faith was joined by Allie who threaded her arm through Faith's other side and the group found a place where three benches formed a U-shape facing the lake.
"Delicious, Allie! These are now one of my favorite muffins." Lee grinned at a smiling Allie. "Maybe you can share the recipe with Aunt Rosie the next time you stay overnight?"
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With the ladies happily browsing in one of Rosemary's favorite apparel shops, Lee took Nathan to the auto dealer he knew. Nathan had previously walked the rows and considered the non-negotiables he felt he required in a vehicle, so armed with his list, Nathan and Lee considered their options. Before long, they had narrowed their search and approached the owner to work out a deal. Satisfied, Nathan paid a down payment to hold the vehicle until he could return with Allie and Faith and the men headed to the shopping district.
"While the girls are occupied, would you mind if I stop in to see a local jeweler I know?" Nathan hoped Lee would keep his confidence. "You are welcome to join me if you wish."
"I would love that. I have made some poor jewelry selections in the past because I allowed a seller to convince me something was stylish and a good deal. Maybe you can help me find something for Rosie?"
"A poor selection, Lee? What in the world did you give her?"
Somewhat embarrassed, Lee glanced at Nathan as he confessed. "An enormous bejeweled spider broach. It was horrendous and gaudy and she made me return it even if I didn't get all my investment back. It was a big mistake." Lee colored with the memory. "Big mistake!"
"Ah ha. Well, live and learn I guess?" Nathan chuckled. "Thankfully, my purchases have been more modest. But if you do find something I will be your backup. There are ways to get opinions even in a jewelry shop you know. This fella is very nice and has helped me acquire some charms for Allie in the past. Bauer's his name. Right over there."
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Having purchased a couple charms for Allie and chosen a set of earrings and a matching necklace for Faith, Nathan was examining the wedding rings while Lee made his purchase. He was grateful for Nathan's suggestion and the two men polled the ladies in the shop to be certain they approved of Lee's purchase. There had been only one dissenting vote from someone who preferred rubies to emeralds, but Lee knew his wife and an emerald necklace would be the perfect gift. He even considered keeping it for Christmas if he could properly hide it!
Lee startled Nathan as he came to stand beside him. "Getting ideas, Nathan?"
Blushing, Nathan nodded. "Allie told me that Faith doesn't wear much jewelry as it can be a hazard in her work, so I don't know if she will want an engagement diamond or what to do. I don't want to ask her if I can help it, but I may have to bring her here someday and let her decide." Nathan sighed.
"There is another option you know. Women discuss jewelry with each other and especially with a potential bride. You could ask Rosie to do some detective work for you!" Lee laughed. "She would relish an assignment like that and Faith would have no idea what she was doing!"
"That's not a bad idea, Lee. Maybe I will ask. Not ready to propose yet, but maybe in a few months?" Nathan grinned as Lee patted his back. "Thank you, Lee."
Safely securing and hiding their purchases wrapped in a blanket under the seat of Lee's vehicle the men walked down the street to meet Faith, Allie and Rosemary, smiling and laughing.
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Surprised that the ladies were still in the same shop where they had been for the past couple of hours, Nathan and Lee were invited to a waiting room towards the back and offered a cup of coffee if they would take a seat at the table.
The attendant informed the ladies that the menfolk had arrived and a fashion show ensued.
"Dad? Aunt Rosie wants to get this outfit for me and Doctor Faith wants to give me the blue one. Is that okay?"
"Oh really? Let me talk to them and decide. You really like this one? I sure do. That dark green would be lovely at Christmas, don't you think?"
"I do, but there's a dark red dress that might be better for Christmas. I'll be back."
Allie disappeared as Rosemary entered and did a twirl and exaggerated bow. Ever the one to take a stage, Rosemary stepped onto a platform in front of surrounding mirrors. "What do you think, Lee? Shall I purchase this one? It's a simple silhouette but the color is gorgeous. Don't you think it looks good on me?" She twirled again then stared at her husband.
"It is beautiful, Rosie, and you look beautiful wearing it. I say get it as it makes this excursion worth it." Lee grinned.
"Okay. Good. Wait until you see the other ones! Those are the ones that make the trip worthwhile!" With a toss of her blonde hair, Rosemary disappeared behind a curtain.
Allie returned with the blue outfit that Faith loved. It was a slender skirt with walking slits on both sides and a beige blouse accented by soft ruffles that covered the front buttons. A matching jacket that buttoned in the front completed her outfit. Allie appeared quite grown up with that jacket and Nathan gulped. 'Am I ready for this?'
Aloud he commented, "You look lovely, Honey, but where is Doctor Faith? I need to talk to her about this." Nathan waved at Allie as she turned to go behind the curtain. "I haven't seen her in any outfit yet!"
Hearing giggles from behind the curtain, all three ladies emerged, yet only Allie and Rosemary had on new clothing. Faith stepped aside and motioned as if she was introducing the lovely ladies.
"May I present Mrs. Rosemary LeVieux Coulter and Miss Allison Mayes Grant for your appreciation. Miss Grant is wearing a garnet velvet dress, accented by imported lace at the neckline and cuffs. Miss Grant, please pirouette? Thank you." Faith concluded with a description of Rosemary's sapphire blue dress. As everyone applauded, Allie curtseyed and giggled before hurrying to her father's open arm.
"You look beautiful in all of these outfits. I'm not sure they are practical enough for Hope Valley though?" Nathan looked at Faith and motioned for her to come to him. "What do you think Faie?"
"I believe you should get all three. You can wear the green and the blue skirts with other blouses and change the look and the season of the outfits. Very practical, Nathan. This one though is her crowning glory! This is a must!" Faith winked at Allie before fastening her gaze on Nathan.
Knowing he was powerless to resist, Nathan agreed. "Just a moment, Faith. I can afford these outfits for Allie, so you need not pay for one, you know."
"My purchase for Allie is not because I think you cannot afford them, Nathe. I want to be a part of her life and offer a gift to a deserving young lady as she becomes a young adult." Faith spoke with determination. "I'm paying!"
"On one condition." Nathan held up his hand. "You must buy something for yourself, Faith. If you cannot afford it, then I will purchase yours! I mean it. I want you to have a treat as well. Will you try on an outfit for me? Please?"
Laughing, Faith admitted. "My purchases are already paid, I just won't try anything on for you. They are a surprise that I hope you will love, but you must wait for a special occasion! I promise it will be worth the wait!"
"Ah ha, you temptress! I will have to wait and you think you have outsmarted me with the finances of today's excursion? I don't think so." Nathan stood and motioned to the saleswoman that they were ready to depart and he would meet her at the front desk. Pausing to observe Rosemary's dress, Nathan commented on its beauty, then asked, "Are you sure about purchasing that outfit for Allie? Remember our previous discussion? I can get that for our girl."
"Allow us the privilege, Nathan? As you just said, Allie is our girl as well!" Lee turned to Rosemary and nodded. "Get that one, Sweetheart, I insist."
At the sales desk, Nathan found that Faith had already paid for one of Allie's outfits, but there were two extra blouses for him to purchase along with the garnet red dress. He smirked at Faith as he gathered the bags and whispered, "This is not over, my dear."
With the car loaded with dress bags, the group piled in, now full of questions about a vehicle purchase.
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"Oh Dad! This dark blue one? It is gorgeous!" Allie enthused. "I vote yes! Please!"
"And you, Faith. What do you think?" Nathan held her hand and squeezed it. "Is this the one?"
"Nathan? Everything about this excursion with you is 'the one.' I will be privileged to be driven in style!" Faith smiled adoringly at Nathan.
"Mmmm hmmm. Then I will go complete the paper work and we'll drive back to Hope Valley in our new vehicle!" Nathan leaned over to kiss Faith's cheek, fully aware that he felt more freedom here in Benson Hills with the Coulters than in Hope Valley right now.
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"Well! Congratulations, Nathan! Everyone is happy today! Shall we celebrate at the Prince Albert Hotel for lunch? My treat." Lee grinned, very pleased with this day. "Follow me."
Lunch was a delightful affair having chosen a cold buffet of salads, tiny sandwiches and a tomato gazpacho soup. Cubed melons drizzled with a citrus honey and mint sauce topped off the meal and the party was ready to window shop and walk in the park. As they meandered down the path, Nathan observed a few row boats at the other end of the lake. He began to walk briskly, asking if anyone would like a boat ride. Now fixed on the skiffs in the lake, the group hurried to the dock and Nathan inquired.
"Hello Sir. Could we take out two boats for a ride? I am a Mountie, so familiar with maneuvering small craft." Nathan extended his hand to the man in charge. "Constable Nathan Grant of Hope Valley."
"Of course. Since there are an odd number of people, would you care to take out that rowboat over there? It is wider so can accommodate two ladies side-by-side."
"You okay with this, Lee? I'll take Faith and Allie with me." Nathan explained.
"It's been a few years, but I know the basics if Rosie is willing?" Lee raised his eyebrow at his wife. "Sweetheart?"
Soon two white boats were gliding out into the lake accompanied by ohhs and ahhs and laughter that carried across the waters.
"Sorry, my ladies, but the necktie has to be loose for me to row comfortably." Nathan opened his top two buttons, shrugged apologetically and leaned into rowing Faith and Allie directly into the middle. Arriving at a distance from any of the other sailors, Nathan stopped and languidly used one oar to turn them in a slow circle to appreciate every view.
"This is delightful, Nathan. What a memory we are making today! Thank you." Suddenly remembering her profession, Faith leaned forward to touch Nathan's knee. "Nathan, is your shoulder alright? I would guess that together Allie and I could row us safely back to the dock if you are in pain."
"I really am fine. No problems with yesterday's construction and so far so good today! Thanks for your concern though, Faie." Rather than touch her hand, they locked eyes since Nathan needed to keep hold of the oars.
After some time, soaking in the sun and park views, Nathan gave a teasing smile and let both oars slap flat against the surface sending a spray of water droplets into the air.
"Oh! Dad!"
"Nathan Grant!" Faith protested with a giggle. "Two can play that game you know?" She pointed to Allie and herself. "Actually two against one, Sir!" Faith leaned over the side of the row boat, appearing ready to scoop up some water before she straightened and commented. "We will refrain and act like proper ladies for now because we don't want to ruin your handsome suit, but your time will come, Constable. Count on it!"
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Driving home after a light supper at the same Hotel restaurant, Nathan, Faith and Allie discussed their day. "What was your favorite part of the day, Allie girl?"
"There are too many to name. I love my new clothes, and the meals were wonderful. This car is grand and our rowboat ride was fun and a lovely memory, but I think all of us being together, with Aunt Rosemary and Uncle Lee too? That was my favorite part. Our family."
"Good choices, Honey. Faie, how about you? Favorite moment?"
"At the risk of copying Allie, I agree with her conclusions, with one exception. Sorry, Allie, but everything with your dad is so new… I have to say my favorite part was spending the day with you, Nathe. Nothing can top that for me."
Allie laughed. "It's okay, Doctor Faith. I think it's pretty wonderful being with my dad too!"
"Ah…" Allie continued, although hesitantly. "I have a question. Now that you are courting Dad, is there anything else I could call you for now? 'Doctor' seems so formal. I've heard Dad call you Faie. Is that a name for only Dad to use or could I call you Miss Faie?"
Nathan glanced at Faith and placed his hand over hers. "I'm happy to share our special name with Allie if you are."
Fighting tears, Faith nodded and cleared her throat. "I would love that Allie. I am privileged and very happy to be Miss Faie to you!"
"Good! That's settled. I've been wondering about that for this past week. Thank you, Miss Faie."
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Pulling his brand new vehicle in front of Faith's row house, Nathan glided to a stop. "Isn't this wonderful? I get to drive you home tonight!" He glanced at Allie in the back seat, "Are you okay for a few moments while we say goodnight?"
"I'm fine. I just want to give Miss Faie a hug. Oh, and don't forget her bags!" Allie slid out of the car and into Faith's open arms. "It was a milestone day for us, wasn't it?"
"That is was, Honey. Sweet dreams tonight and I'll save you a seat tomorrow morning."
"Ladies," Nathan whispered. "You need to tell me which bags belong to you, Faith!"
Once the bags were sorted, Allie sat in the passenger seat and admired the car and it's shining silver dials and knobs across the dashboard.
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Stepping inside, Nathan set down the bags and pulled Faith into his embrace.
"Thank you for today, Nathan. I'll never forget it." Faith placed her arms around his neck as he held her close around her waist.
"Nor will I, my Sweet Faie. I love you so much." He moved his hand to brush a soft curl from her cheek.
Their lips met in a long, slow, memorable kiss, ending with their hearts pounding. "Wow! I didn't get to tell you what my favorite part of the day was. I was going to tease you and say purchasing the car, but in truth, you are the favorite part of every day now... And that kiss!" Nathan kissed the tip of Faith's nose and let go of her. "I'll see you tomorrow, My Love."
"Oh, Nathan. I love you and will be dreaming of you tonight." She patted his cheek. "Till tomorrow, you dear man."
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