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Chapter one hundred and two

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Future Prospects

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Awakening on Wednesday morning a bit later than usual, Nathan felt stiff then realized he had not moved his position all night long. 'I must have been exhausted and it is catching up with me!' Wrapping his robe tightly, Nathan stretched, padded to the front room and lit a fire before starting coffee in the kitchen.

It wasn't long before Nathan was shampooed and shaved. Having dressed in his jodhpurs, Henley and suspenders, Nathan wrapped himself in a warm, woolen sweater, grabbed a mug of coffee and sat on the chair closest to the fireplace in the warming room. He stared into the flames as he prayed his morning prayers of thanksgiving and for God's guidance throughout the day, then reached for his Bible for his morning reading.

Opening his journal, Nathan set down the mostly empty mug and began to jot down his thoughts and things to remember. Today might be a good day to meet with Peter, then stop in to see Tim and tell him the details about courting Elizabeth and her move to Regina. During his lunch hour Nathan thought he might call Bill and discuss some plans.

Having been informed by the Commissioner's secretary to come over to Headquarters right away, Nathan stood in front of the outer desk awaiting instructions to enter Peter's office.

Saluting, then taking his seat across from Nathan, Peter's eyes were twinkling. "Well. Haven't I seen you around somewhere before? You look familiar!" Peter grinned. "What's on your mind, Nathan?"

Nathan chuckled. "I know. Why am I not just talking to you at home? There is a reason as this is really connected to my future in the RCMP, Peter. When I accepted this instructor position, you informed me that it was a stepping stone and that you intended to promote me to Inspector. I need to ask you what that entails for a couple of reasons. You see, Elizabeth and I have a future to plan…" A familiar warmth crept up Nathan's neck. "I mean we aren't engaged yet, but I hope we will be soon. Anyway, is the position you have in mind here in Regina or moving to Headquarters in Ottawa? How long do you anticipate me remaining here in Regina? I need to look for housing for us as a family of four and I must determine if we should rent or purchase a home."

Nathan could not read the expression that crossed Peter's face, so he proceeded. "I would also like to discuss what the position would require as I feel I have found my place at Depot and might be willing to remain there and decline a promotion in order to do so, if you understand. Plus, I would need to consider moving Allie away from St. Anne's so I need to make some long-term decisions now." Nathan wasn't certain if he had been clear. "Peter, I don't mean to sound ungrateful for the opportunities you have offered and maybe have in mind. I am just sharing the concerns that I now have! Some months ago, decisions involved only Allie and myself, but that is changing now, plus we have enjoyed the benefits here in Regina."

Peter raised his hand. "Nathan. Please do not take my silence as a lack of understanding or me thinking you are not appreciative. I know you, remember!"

"Let's discuss one thing at a time. My original intention has changed. In discussions with Tim, we are in agreement that the skills you have brought to Depot would not be fully used as an Inspector. Sure, the investigative wisdom in invaluable, but you bring more than that to the Academy. Your first week, you suggested a wise addition to the program. Then we read of your experience as a small town Mountie and want to incorporate that into our training. Obviously you have won the respect and appreciation of other faculty as you are now introducing the funeral drills and, although you declined, you were invited to assist the Chaplain. You have accepted the writing and revamping of the manuals and all of this is over-and-above what you were originally hired to do! Then you mentioned the idea of incorporating community service for the Cadets to volunteer and visit the retired Mounties and I am amazed and impressed. I wouldn't want to promote you away from these types of opportunities. You are thriving at Depot and you have only been there for three months!" Peter chuckled.

"I confess my original plan was to move you up in rank in preparation for you to eventually replace me." Peter searched Nathan's face. "I sense that is not what you would want, am I right?"

Nathan gulped. "I am honored you have thought of me as a potential Commissioner, Peter, but the idea is daunting to me. I don't feel the leadership of the RCMP is for me, in spite of your confidence in me. But you said that was your original plan. How has it changed now, Sir?"

"Tim and I are contemplating a way to keep you here in Regina and working at Depot. There are a few possibilities, but the one we are leaning towards is making you a Superintendent and eventually maybe take Tim's position. He is not as old as I am, so his retirement is not imminent, but you could be his second in command for many years, so the promotion need not be hurried. I believe it would be good for you to have a long talk with Tim and get information on what the Superintendent position involves. Getting your questions answered will also help Tim set his timeline." Observing Nathan's agitation, Peter paused. "You have a comment?"

"I have a concern. All of this is wonderful and amazing and totally unexpected. I am deeply honored, yet my concern is those who have put in their time, who are older than me and who might resent me being promoted instead of them. I would not want to endanger relationships nor hinder another's career by my advancement. I have friends here who consider me to be equals although they outrank me. I couldn't go above them!"

"Your concern is heard, Nathan. Yet, you are making assumptions. First, you assume the men of which you speak have the skills for a more advanced position. Secondly, you are assuming they would want a different position or third they haven't already been offered one and declined. There are men who are happy to remain comfortable in a job they do well and they have no aspirations for change. Fourth, you are also assuming many of the Mounties have ambitions to greater leadership. Many have reluctantly accepted advancement because their superiors recognized something in them that they didn't recognize in themselves. You fit that category, Nathan, and you and that type of leader are the ones we want. Those who are humble and not self-seeking are the most able and respected leaders." Peter paused.

"So you see, if the men of which you speak are true friends, they will rejoice for you in your advancement and be happy to come alongside you to help you succeed and ultimately to help the RCMP improve. Evil exists in our world, Nathan, but it is my fervent prayer that by the time men are in these positions, we have weeded out those who are driven by ego and not by service. That is one of the goals of training from the first day we meet a Cadet! Plus, we need men whom we desire to emulate. Men who have proven their character, either in Mountie situations or in life challenges. You have proven yourself in both, Nathan, and many of us see that. I would ask you to please seek God for His direction and not base your life decisions on those around you." Glancing at Nathan, Peter softened his voice. "Now… I feel I have shared much more than you expected! You have a lot to absorb. So, back to your original question, you can count on being in Regina for the remainder of your career if that is your desire! Does that help?"

Nathan's eyes were glistening and he felt overwhelmed. "I am somewhat in shock, Peter. I hope you will explain all this to me again sometime, so I can remember it all and even take notes?"

Peter chuckled. "Well… you asked about long-term, Nathan! All you need to remember right now is what you are doing each day for the next couple weeks until you have that beautiful woman of yours back in your arms! And then you need to make a plan to make her yours forever!"

Chuckling Nathan held Peter's gaze. "Oh, rest assured, I have a plan for that!" He paused. "But seriously, Peter, I am indebted to you for so much. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart."

"Stand up, Son. The door is closed so let me give you a hug. All my interest and professional investment in you has paid off handsomely, Nathan. You are a man I admire and I am thankful to have played a small part in what you have become, even if it was mostly in praying for you."

The men hugged, both trying to control their emotions before releasing their hold.

As soon as Nathan left the office, Peter made a telephone call. "Hi. We need to talk this afternoon, okay?"

Nathan's mind was reeling and he couldn't remember everything about which he and Peter had just spoken. He felt the need to talk to someone, but Elizabeth was on the train. He couldn't share all these private things with his fellow faculty right now and he didn't know the Chaplain well enough to trust him either. Pastor Joseph would listen, but most likely not understand. Lee was an entrepreneur businessman, although both an owner and manager, so aspiring to anything more wasn't something he would have experience with. He wasn't ready to talk to Bill about this as he wasn't certain even Bill would understand or even think he was worthy of the possibilities ahead of him. His father wouldn't understand either. And that was when Nathan knew who he could talk to!

"William? It's Nathan. How are you?"

"Nathan! Son. I am glad to hear your voice. Is everything okay? Are you catching up on rest after your whirlwind week with my daughter?" William grinned as he made himself comfortable in a chair near the telephone.

"Everything is okay, well mostly!" Nathan stared out the window. "Do you have some time to talk right now? I have left work early so I can talk in private from the Cottage."

"Of course. I will have to get up when the kettle boils, but I can return to our conversation right away. What's on your mind?" William grinned, hoping he knew the answer to his own question.

"First let me tell you that Elizabeth and I had a wonderful week, William. I love your daughter beyond measure and want to marry her as soon as I can. Is it too soon to get engaged?"

"Your timeline is your own, Son, but I would not object to an engagement now. You both are mature and have waited a long time to be together."

"William, Elizabeth is the love of my life and I don't want to wait another moment. I don't know how we will proceed time wise... we haven't discussed that yet although we certainly covered a lot of ground in just a few days! Do I still have your blessing?"

"You have my wholehearted and joyful blessing, Son. Yes." William assured Nathan, adding hopefully, "Any plans you can share?"

"I have a plan to ask her on New Year's Eve because I don't think I can wait long after she returns!" Nathan's voice took on a tone of longing. "We'll have to wait to plan a wedding and for our housing issue to be resolved, but, at this point? I would marry her yesterday!"

"Ah ha! You kissed her didn't you?"

Stammering, Nathan tried to answer with a question. "Wh… What?"

William chuckled. "It was my experience that I had the patience of a saint until I kissed Grace. Then it was as though a switch turned on and suddenly no wedding date would be soon enough. I loved her and wanted to be with her right away! Am I guessing correctly?"

Nathan slowly let out his breath realizing his future father-in-law understood. "You are guessing correctly. Having kissed for the first time on Monday night, it was agonizing to say goodbye when she departed yesterday."

"I can imagine, Son. Just remember the joy of being reunited makes the parting worth it! Now is that what you called to discuss?"

"That is part of it, William. Thank you for trusting me with Elizabeth's and Jack's future. I promise to provide and care for them to the best of my ability as long as I live. I also promise to love them and build our family on the foundations of our faith. I will honor Jack's father's memory and endeavor to raise young Jack in a manner that would have made his Mountie father proud, and to make you, his grandfather proud."

William cleared his throat, yet as he spoke his voice remained husky. "I know you will, Nathan. There is no other man I know to whom I would trust my Bessie and young Jack. And not only will I be blessed with a Son in you, Nathan, but you are giving me a precious granddaughter whom I already adore! How is Allie with the news of your courting and a future?"

"Allie is showing incredible maturity most of the time, but sometimes she is ecstatic and exuberant and her joy cannot be contained. Elizabeth is an answer to Allie's frequent prayers, William. Allie is also looking forward to seeing you again, you know!" Nathan added, "As am I."

"Oh? Good. The feeling is mutual. Can you hold on for a moment? The kettle is ready. I'll be right back."

While William collected his beverage, Nathan figured out how to introduce the next matter of discussion, so he was prepared.

"Okay. I am all yours again."

"I called to talk about more than the proposal, William. I had a surprising discussion with Peter this morning and I would like your input. I'm not even certain that I can remember all I want to tell you as it was so overwhelming, but I can start. I went to him to discuss the longevity of my position at Depot and his plans for my promotions and future…" Nathan explained all he could recall to William.

William listened attentively and interjected a few questions to better grasp the hierarchy of the RCMP and the separation of the leadership at Depot and Headquarters in addition to the RCMP's move to Ottawa, while the Academy remained in Regina. He inquired about Nathan's interests and his appreciation of his current work and what the new positions would entail. They discussed the opportunities for Allie and Jack and any future children they might have. They discussed the wisdom of purchasing a home and then making it their own by way of additions as needed. William offered to assist with that if at any time Nathan would welcome the help although he doubted Nathan would need or allow the help! William was already getting to know Nathan.

By the end of their conversation, Nathan felt less overwhelmed and knew he had an advocate who could offer perspective from outside the Mounties. He also sensed that William appreciated Nathan's confiding in him and seeking his wisdom, thereby strengthening their bond.

Nathan sensed correctly as William was both honored and thrilled to be included and trusted by this man whom he would soon call his son. William knew of other business associates, bankers, attorneys, men in government and men of wealth and prestige who would have loved to have the relationship that William and Nathan already had even before the marriage certificate was signed.

As William Thatcher, shipping magnate, laid in bed later that night he prayed, giving thanks with tears of gratitude falling down his face.

Having written in his journal as much as he could recall from the morning and afternoon conversations, Nathan prepared for an early supper with Allie. The chicken potpie was ready to place in the oven when he heard Allie's key in the door.

"Hi, Honey. I'm in the kitchen. Be there in a minute." Nathan washed the flour from his hands and was drying them as Allie entered the kitchen.

"Is everything okay, Dad? You are home early and Mrs. Cook said I should come down here because Gramma and Grampa are talking privately. Nothing happened did it?" Ever suspicious, Allie picked up on nuances and could often read the emotions in a room.

"Oh! I am fine, Honey." Nathan opened his arms for a hug. "I came home early to have a talk with Mr. Thatcher because I wanted his perspective on some Mountie things, but from someone who is not a Mountie. Mr. Thatcher is a knowledgeable businessman so he is a good sounding board. Do you know what that is? A sounding board?"

"A sounding board like in a piano?" Allie went to the sink and washed her hands.

"That is one definition, yes. But in this case it refers to a person whose opinion I trust who will give me his point of view. In other words I bounce my ideas off of him like a sound bounces off or resonates off the wood of the piano's sounding board. Do you understand?"

"I think so." Allie changed the subject as she reached for a glass. "What's for dinner? You have flour all over your apron!" Grinning, Allie pointed to the evidence of a kitchen project as she sipped her milk.

"Chicken potpie, Honey. I thought if we had that tonight, there would be delicious leftovers for tomorrow before choir practice. Plus, it is good comfort food for us, right?" Nathan smiled at Allie, grateful to see the melancholy of yesterday replaced by her happy smiles. "Are you ready to call Uncle Gabe?" Nathan hung his apron on the hook beside the kitchen door.

"Oh yes! Let's call. He will want all the details."

"Let's do that and we can check on any wedding updates as well. We'll catch him before he leaves work!"

Seated across the table from her father, Allie placed her napkin on her lap after the prayer of thanksgiving. She handed her plate to Nathan to serve the potpie. "Uncle Gabe sounded as happy as you do, Dad. I wish we could be there, but they have a wedding coming up really soon and they didn't give us much notice."

"I know." Nathan served himself. "I do wish we were closer, but God knows and maybe he and Miss Lillian can visit us in the spring! In the meantime, we will pray for them, right?"

"Of course. I think a Christmas wedding could be pretty with all the decorations, but your colors would be limited then." Allie had a dreamy expression. "Do you think you and Mrs. Thornton will wait very long to get married? I hope not…"

"Oh, Allie. Your questions are way ahead of what we have discussed, so I cannot answer you! I hope we don't wait for long, but we have to find a house and move her belongings into the place, plus ours. It means another move for us, Allie-girl!"

"That's okay because I don't think we will move again for a long time!"

"Good evening. Grant residence." Nathan answered the ringing telephone after hurrying from the kitchen. Balancing the receiver between his chin and shoulder, he quickly wiped his sudsy hands on his denim apron.

"Nathan! Peter here. Do you have plans this evening, or could you come up to the house to talk with Carol and me? If Allie would be okay staying at the Cottage, we would like to have a private conversation with you."

"Ahhhh… I'm sure she'll be fine, Peter. Should I be worried about this conversation?"

"Oh, no." Peter assured him quickly. "Not at all."

"Okay then. Let me finish the dishes and talk to Allie. I will be right there." After a long and informative discussion with Peter at Headquarters, Nathan was curious about this request. A little nervous that Peter would be informing him of their date of departure to Ottawa, Nathan downplayed the request and locked the door. Allie would be reading and working on additional Christmas projects.

"Hello, hello!" Nathan called as he stepped into the Collins's entryway. "Nathan here." After shedding his outer coat, Nathan followed Peter's voice to the living room.

"Good evening, Nathan. Please take a seat?" Peter sat again as Nathan sat. "Carol and I have something to share with you, Son. Prompted by our conversation earlier today, Carol and I realize we must adjust our original plan and inform you of our plans for this house."

Peter got right to it! "Although, you are unaware, Nathan, you are named in our will as our primary beneficiary…" Peter's voice got quiet as he observed Nathan's face as it paled.

Not entirely grasping the import of Peter's words and concerned, Nathan interrupted. "Are you unwell?"

"We are fine, Son. Please let me continue. We will update our intentions in a new will and testament once some business transactions are completed, but…."

Immediately Nathan leaned forward, holding up his hand. "Wait, please? Your beneficiary? Me?" He glanced from Peter to Carol. "Why?"

Carol spoke up. "Our will was prepared a decade or more ago, so this is not a new plan." Carol continued observing Nathan's shocked expression. "You know my bachelor cousin gave this house to me when he became ill and knew he would not be around to enjoy it. Peter and I would like to gift you this house now, rather than wait for our demise."

Stunned, and with questions swirling around in his mind, Nathan just listened.

"With your developing relationship with Elizabeth, you will be needing a larger place." Peter explained. "The timing is interesting because, months ago, we planned the bedroom construction for January! Our contractor was overscheduled with outdoor projects over the summer and autumn, so he arranged for our indoor project in January. With the arrival of Elizabeth and your hopes for a future together, Carol and I realized we needed to tell you sooner rather than later and when you mentioned searching for a house we realized today is the day."

Still not comprehending, Nathan questioned. "What about Claire? She's your niece, right? Shouldn't she be the recipient?"

"You probably don't know this, but Claire's mother is from a wealthy family and, although she teaches because she enjoys it so much, Claire doesn't need money from us. There is a home provided for the Commissioner in Ottawa, so we only need to bring furnishings and personal belongings when we relocate. My salary as Commissioner provides very well for Carol and me, so this house will actually become a burden once we finalize our move."

"We can't think of anyone we love more than you, Nathan, nor is anyone more deserving," Carol assured him. "So, you do not need to search for a house. This one will be ready for you by the end of February."

"Peter! Carol!" Nathan explained. "You have already done so much for me, for my family. This is too much!"

"Nathan? This is our gift. God has always provided for us. Even as this house was gifted to us, we are passing it on to you and your family." Peter chuckled. "I purposely included you in the designs for the bedrooms too!"

"You are sure about this?" Nathan questioned once again, finding this generosity so hard to comprehend. "And neither of you are ill?"

"Oh Nathan, please relax! We are both fine. Just a few aches and pains that are to be expected." Carol smiled. "It gives Peter and me great pleasure to know that a young family will enjoy this home and property." Carol blushed before continuing. "I, well we, have one request though? May we stay here when Peter has to be in Regina and even just to visit you? I promise we'll give you space as newlyweds, but eventually?"

With shining eyes, Nathan stood and went to Carol, extending his hand for her to stand. As she did, Nathan embraced her, then moved to do the same to Peter.

"Yes, of course you are welcome in this home anytime. My paltry words are not enough to convey my utter shock, but also my immense gratitude. Thank you. Thank you, both." Nathan looked from one to the other before returning to his seat. "I am soooo…" Nathan could not find the words, so shook his head, side-to-side and ran his fingers through his hair.

"There is something else. You have seen the bedroom wing and these center rooms, but there is a part of the house you still haven't seen. The apartment." Peter stood. "Would you please come with me, Nathan?"

Past the kitchen and laundry area, Peter and Carol led Nathan to a closed door. As he opened it, Peter explained, "This is where Carol and I first lived when we moved to this house. Carol's cousin was in the main part of the house and he had hired a care-giver that took care of him during the last months of his life. Once he passed, we freshened up the rooms and moved from here into the main part of the house."

Peter pointed out a few things, in the apartment. "The nice thing is that you can see three sides of the home in this wing, plus you have just enough room for two. The kitchenette is small but adequate and that door leads to a full bathroom. This studio apartment can be used as in-law accommodations, or for visitors, or staff. The Cooks have lived in this space over the winters and when I had to be out of town for an extended time."

Carol interjected. "This is where we will stay in the coming weeks while the bedroom renovations are being accomplished, Nathan. We will still be using the kitchen and living rooms, but we can escape the noise, and maybe some sawdust, in here!"

"Wait until I tell Elizabeth! She'll be as shocked as I am…"

"Nathan, in addition to the request that we can visit, I have another request." Peter shut the apartment door and they returned to the living room. "I promise this is the only other desire. Would you please word your acquisition of this house carefully? Maybe you could say that we worked out a deal or something to that effect? I mean for the public. Obviously you can tell your immediate family and close friends as you wish."

"I can do that." Nathan agreed. "How do we work this out? Do you have a lawyer who will draw up papers for the transfer of ownership, or what? Also, did you say we could move in at the end of February?"

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Author's Notes: Again, I must thank you, Eoin, for your time and expertise as we planned for Nathan's future in the RCMP!
I recommend Eoin at 'mountiefactsandhistory' to any of you authors who are desiring accuracy in your Mountie stories. Eilie