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Chapter One hundred twenty-two

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Thursday's Arrival

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On Thursday morning Bill arranged to use Nathan's car to run an early errand.

Meanwhile Elizabeth and Jack joined Nathan and Allie gathered around the dining table in the cottage for a breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, cinnamon scones, Neufchatel cheese and blackberry jam. This was the official start of their holiday celebrations. When a knock sounded on the front door, Nathan stood to answer it, finding his wish had come true.

"Mom! Dad!" Nathan froze, barely able to think, let alone speak. "You are here!"

Allie heard the words and nearly knocked over her chair in her haste to reach them. "Grandpa, Grandma! You are here!" Allie echoed her father's exclamations as she flew across the room.

Holding back tears, Nathan wrapped his arms around his mother. "You are... really here!" Nathan couldn't help repeating himself, he was so shocked. When hugging his dad, Nathan caught Bill's beaming face over Archie's shoulder. "How did this happen? Bill? Did you arrange this?"

Shaking his head, Bill answered. "Not me. Peter and Carol did!" Bill glanced towards Elizabeth.

Smiling, Elizabeth quickly cleaned Jack's hands then stood with him, observing the reunion from the dining table.

"Hello, Son! I guess you are surprised?" Archie patted his son's back.

"I am astonished!" Nathan motioned his parents further into the room.

"Come in and let me introduce the love of my life, and her son." Nathan waved Elizabeth and Jack into the room and placed his hand behind the small of Elizabeth's back. "Mom? Please meet Elizabeth Thornton. Lisbeth let me introduce my mother, Ruth Grant. You know Dad already."

"What a lovely surprise to meet you, Mrs. Grant." Although she held out her hand, with Ruth's open arms, Elizabeth reciprocated with a hug.

"It is my delight, dear girl!" Ruth whispered into Elizabeth's chestnut curls.

"Happy Christmas, Elizabeth! Lovely to see you again." Archie exchanged a hug with this special lady, whom he had pegged as Nathan's intended the first time they met!

"And let's not forget my Buddy! Mom, Dad, this is Jack. Jack this is my Mommy and Daddy." Nathan squatted next to Jack. "Let's see what should you call them? Grandpa and Grandma?" Seeing his parents nod, Nathan explained how to address them and after shaking hands, Jack repeated the titles.

"Hello, my boy. I am so excited to meet you and spend Christmas together!" Archie patted Jack's blonde curls.

"It is wonderful to be sharing Christmas with you, Sweet boy! Come sit beside me and tell me what we'll be doing in the next few days." Ruth took Jack's hand and he followed her to the sofa with Allie grinning and perched on Ruth's other side.

Archie sat on the coffee table in front of them, asking if anything special was happening tomorrow.

Nathan and Elizabeth looked at each other and Bill, laughing. "Well! I guess we don't rate much anymore, at least when compared to the younger ones!" Still smiling, Nathan nevertheless complained loudly, hoping his parents would hear. They did.

"Son, it happens to us all. Our children take a back seat whenever the grandchildren are present!" Archie shrugged his shoulders as if this was inevitable.

"So I see!" Nathan laughed, actually thrilled that his parents could dote on both children. "Before you get too distracted though, have you eaten breakfast? I can make additional eggs and more bacon. We have plenty of scones and hot coffee."

"I am famished, so yes please to all of the above! Thank you." Archie agreed before turning back to let Jack tell them about his upcoming birthday.

"Elizabeth, please sit with them?" Bill offered. "I'll help Nathan fix more breakfast."

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Gathered around the dining room table, the family prayed a second blessing and thanksgiving, then began to share how their visit came about.

"Peter called and asked if there was any way we could come. I was saving my time off to come for Zach's graduation, but with Peter's encouragement asked my boss. I worked until seven, then we caught the overnight train and here we are. I actually have off until after New Year's and can still take the time in February. I guess you never know until you ask!"

"Could you sleep on the train or do you need to take a long nap? Wait! Where are you staying?" Nathan asked, concerned.

"We slept, Honey. Mr. Thatcher and Peter arranged for a sleeping compartment so we were quite comfortable. As for where we are staying? I understand there is a small apartment in the main house that we haven't yet seen?" Ruth explained. "I am so excited to see all of you, to meet Elizabeth, Jack and Bill and see the Collins's again!"

"Oh, you are going to love the apartment. It is charming!" Elizabeth caught Ruth's enthusiasm and added it to her own! "I saw it yesterday, although I didn't realize Carol had made it ready for you folks. This is going to be a delightful and memorable holiday!"

"It is cute! You'll love it Grandma. I am sure!" Suddenly worried, Allie questioned. "Did you bring back our Christmas gifts to you? I don't want you to be without gifts under the tree."

"We brought a tote of gifts back with us, Honey. Don't worry." Ruth patted Allie's hand. "Actually though our gift is just to be with you all! Aren't we going to have a grand Christmas?"

"But, first is my birthday!" Jack interjected. "I hope I have chocolate cake!"

"Ah ha! You like chocolate too, eh, my boy?" Archie winked. "It's my favorite!"

"Ummm hummm." Jack nodded with enthusiasm. "I get gifts from everybody too!"

"Jack Thornton!" Elizabeth blushed even as she cringed. "You will receive gifts from some people, but maybe not from everyone. You should not expect things, just wait to be surprised!"

"Oh, I will be surprised with all of them. I don't know what I am going to get!" Jack wiggled expectantly in his seat as the family tried not to laugh.

Elizabeth mouthed the words to the adults, "I'm sorry!"

"We've had young ones around too, remember, Honey!" Ruth assured her. "We came prepared!"

"Mom!" Nathan sat straighter and held his mother's gaze. "I just realized you aren't using your cane. Is your knee feeling better?"

"It really is!" Ruth happily responded. "I keep a cane handy when outside the house, but the attack seems to have lessened noticeably. I am even hoping to tour Depot next week? Will that be possible?"

"Of course! I think another young someone might like to take a tour as well!" Nathan grinned, then inhaled a deep breath. "There is so much happening now though, next week feels like a lifetime away!"

"First, we have some plans to adjust for today. " Nathan continued. "We were going to bake and prepare things ahead so we can enjoy tomorrow as the first of two celebrations. I believe Elizabeth and Bill will be making something in our kitchen, so Allie, you can help them or me. Gramma Carol and I will make more treats up in the main house. Most of Jack's toys are there, so, Mom and Dad, if you want to play and watch him for us, that might be helpful. We have corn, cheese and bacon chowder, along with biscuits for our lunch." Nathan glanced around the table. "Probably most of our meals will be at the main house to accommodate everyone, so that means less walking for you too, Mom."

"Remember, Honey, I want to help with meals as well. No need for any one person to bear the burden with all the cooks in the family!" Ruth reminded everyone. "We also have experienced dish-washers so don't forget that!"

"I think we all have experience with that! Lisbeth, has Carol said anything about needing our dishes as extras? Will you help me remember to ask her about that." Nathan paused, thinking. "There will be fourteen of us! Plus, I don't even know if Claire and Dan will be joining us for dinner! My stars…" Nathan's eyes were wide.

"We'll figure it out, Honey. Don't worry, please? None of the family is shy about pitching in and it will all work out." Elizabeth leaned against Nathan's shoulder and patted his arm. "Relax and check your list!"

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While Nathan and Elizabeth washed the dishes, they exclaimed over the surprise and Elizabeth commented. "I wonder if any of us will get any sleep tonight! I am almost as excited as Jack!"

"So, you didn't know about Mom and Dad coming either?"

"I did not. As a matter of fact I wasn't even suspicious when Carol showed me the apartment! I seem to have lost my curiosity!" Elizabeth giggled. "I haven't even peeked into that tote of gifts you know?"

"Oh, good. Jack can't be the only one surprised tomorrow and Saturday." Nathan leaned to kiss Elizabeth on the head. "Now, do you know where everything is for your baking project?"

"I believe so but if not, Bill and I will figure it out. Plus, you are not that far away to ask!"

"True. Oh, did Carol tell you the cake top is hidden in their bedroom?"

"She mentioned it. I don't think we will add that until tomorrow though, right? By the way, can your parents watch Jack down here in the morning so we can decorate for the party? If Mother and Father and Julie come early, they can probably help watch him as well. He seems enamored with his Plasticine and Julie loves that too. Did I tell you Mother found three other colors and also got a set for Allie?" Elizabeth grinned. "We will have hours of entertainment with those gifts!"

"No, you didn't mention it. Sounds like fun for children and adults!" After Nathan wiped the counters a final time, he wrapped his arms around Elizabeth, turning her to face him. "Let me get in some sustenance before I tackle the baking and leave your side, Honey." Bending to brush her lips with his, he pulled back to memorize her face, before pressing his lips to hers again.

Elizabeth relaxed against Nathan, emitting a slow sigh when they parted. "Oh, my dearest Love, there is no where I would rather be than right here, this weekend, with all our loved ones and in your arms." She stroked his face. "I love you, Nathan Grant."

"And I love you, Lisbeth!" After a quick peck, Nathan released her and untied his denim apron, draping it over a chair for Bill. "I will see you in a while!"

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Pleased that his mother could navigate the path with Allie at her side, Nathan and Archie collected the luggage from the car and brought it into the main house.

"Welcome, my friends! Welcome back!" Carol exclaimed as Ruth entered and was enveloped in a warm hug. "Isn't this going to be wonderful?"

"Oh, it is! If I forget later, thank you for putting the idea in Archie's head, for the train and for the accommodation. I can't wait to see it!" Ruth began to shed her coat and Allie hung it beside the door then captured her grandmother's hand in her own to head towards the back hallway.

"Follow me," Motioned Carol.

"Oh, Carol! What a delightful little apartment!" Ruth followed Allie as she tugged her grandmother's hand, showing her around. "My goodness. You have everything you need in here!"

"Now I did not stock the cupboards or icebox, Ruth, because we want you both to be with all of us this week. We will use the icebox to store some items for our meals though! If you need anything, please let me know? I cleared the drawers so you can unpack your suitcases and, just in case, I hid the extra cane behind the door to the hallway." Carol pointed to some red roses and greens in a vase on the small drop leaf table. "Those are from Grace Thatcher, Ruth. She wanted to welcome you to the festivities."

"Really? That is thoughtful." A look of anxiety crossed Ruth's face. "What is she like? I confess, I am nervous to meet her."

"Ruth? Please don't be. I was talking to Peter last night and I think that Grace is putting on an act when she is in Hamilton. She is performing a role in society, yet that is not who she is. Here, and probably in Hope Valley as well, she is authentic, a quiet, delightful, thoughtful person who can even be fun and definitely be sentimental. I believe you will get on splendidly with her, and William too!" Carol tried to reassure her. "They truly are not defined by their bank accounts and you will not feel inferior in any way. You can relax, Ruth. You both have something in common and that will be a starting point in drawing you together."

"We do? Something in common? I think of her as being royalty or unapproachable. Isn't that awful? I don't even know her and I always told my children to keep an open mind and stand tall because we are all equal in God's eyes." Ruth still appeared apprehensive in spite of her words.

"You have children who adore each other, Ruth." Responded Carol. "That is your common starting point. Love."

"I guess that's true… Well I will start by thanking her for the roses." Turning around again, Ruth commented still smiling and glancing out the windows. "This so welcoming, Carol. Archie and I might settle-in and never want to leave!"

Allie perked up at that comment. "I would like that a lot, Grandma!"

"You are not alone in that!" Turning to Carol, Ruth walked to her and took her hands in her own. "Nathan has told us what you have done, Carol. This home is such a generous and marvelous gift you have given our boy. Thank you is insufficient, but we do thank you." Suddenly concerned and not wanting to say anything unknown, Ruth continued. "Do the Thatcher's know?"

"It is odd to be thanked for this, Ruth. It was just a way to show our love to Nathan and Allie and, well, all of you! This home was a gift to us and we are thrilled to be passing it on. Oh, and yes, the Thatcher's know. Elizabeth told them as it may influence the timing of certain things, you know moving and all." Carol winked at Ruth.

"Of course..." Ruth smiled, but her response was interrupted as Nathan and Archie entered with their belongings.

"Allie? Would you be willing to help me get unpacked before you attend to your baking responsibilities?" Ruth asked, watching Nathan place the luggage on the blanket chest at the bottom of the bed.

"I'd be happy to help, Grandma!" Checking with her father, Allie asked. "Is that okay, Dad? Can you start without me?"

"I will manage, Honey. Maybe after Grandma and Grandpa get settled you two can bake something with each other? Are you up to that Mom? Maybe a favorite Grant family recipe?" Nathan looked so hopeful that Ruth laughed.

Winking at Allie, Ruth answered, "I'll see what I can remember, Son!"

Entering the kitchen as Nathan and Carol were washing the baking dishes after finishing a batch of soft Maple cookies, Ruth asked if Nathan could make a grocery run for a few items. Archie and Ruth offered to finish cleaning up the kitchen and to remove the final pan of cookies from the oven. They all sent Nathan to get Elizabeth to run the errand.

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"This is an unexpected treat, Honey!" Elizabeth giggled as she settled into the front seat. "A few private moments with you!"

"I know! We may have to steal away at times, just to connect with each other in the middle of a crowd." Nathan pulled out onto the road and after shifting into gear, placed his hand lightly on top of Elizabeth's. "Won't this be an amazing holiday? I'm still struggling to believe it!"

"I am thrilled to see your parents together and to meet your mother. She is stunning, Nathan, and I see some of her in you. You have her beautiful thick hair and a certain way of moving your hands. She is a lovely, warm person too."

"She is. Tried in the fire and she's come out as pure gold. You will enjoy getting to know her." Nathan chuckled. "I don't think she has any idea of what to expect when meeting your parents though! Even though she ran a ranch and training school, I don't think she realizes she is a businesswoman worthy of respect for that alone. Not to mention how she handled Dad's thefts and incarcerations. If she sees the William and Grace I have gotten to know, Mom will love them." Nathan glanced in the rearview mirror. "I am actually nervous to not be there if your parents come now, but Carol is gracious and I guess she will guide the initial conversations."

"Don't worry, Honey. "You are not responsible for their interactions and they have their love for us in common. That will be a good place to start." Elizabeth laughed. "Remember Jack is there too." Coloring slightly, Elizabeth confessed. "I am embarrassed about Jack's comments expecting birthday gifts. That is the first time he said that!"

Nathan grinned. "It probably won't be the last. Experienced parents always understand, Honey. Don't worry about it."

They drove in silence until Elizabeth changed the subject. "Your parents arrival is a lovely surprise for all of us, however I am especially happy for you, Honey. I think my family may have overwhelmed you at times over the past few weeks! You have been a wonderful host though and I am so proud to stand by your side."

"Thank you, Honey. Now we will get the opportunity to step out and entertain as a couple! It is sort of practice for when the house will be ours, you know? We are already making memories of our first Christmas!" Nathan commented as he slowed the vehicle. "Keep your eye open for a parking spot, please?"

"There, Nathan." Elizabeth cried out with glee, pointing to an empty spot up ahead. "Perfect!"

"Right. Here we go!" Adeptly pulling the car up next to another parked car, Nathan reached his right arm over the back of the seat and backed into the spot turning the wheel at just the right moment to park smoothly and with no adjustments required.

Admiringly, Elizabeth commented. "Wow. How did you learn to do that? I always had to pull forward and backward a few times to get in right!"

"You can thank Lee for that. He taught me on a trip or three to Union City and had me practice many times, saying I would thank him for that someday." Nathan pulled on the brake, laughing. "That day is now because I've impressed my girl!"

"Indeed you have!"

"May I ask for a kiss as a reward before we head inside?" Nathan gave his shy, crooked smile. "Please?"

Leaning towards him, Elizabeth answered with a sweet, soft kiss. "You don't even need to ask, my Love. Your reward is mine as well. Besides I have learned to know what that look means, so I am happy to oblige!"

They each took a basket, then locking the car door, Nathan grabbed Elizabeth's free hand and grinned. "I feel like a teenager! A kiss, holding hands with my girl and no children with us that we need to parent. Just us! Almost like skipping school…"

Giggling, Elizabeth agreed. "It feels good, doesn't it?"

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