Chapter 27 – First Night in Saratoga (long)

Elizabeth wasn't sure about baking with Gran right away but after a bit she realized that it was fun and Gran was really patient with her. They ended up talking about a lot of things while they made cookies, bars and even got some bread rising. They also got supper started. They were having so much fun. Elizabeth couldn't remember the last time that she had such an enjoyable afternoon, especially in the kitchen. Both Gran and Elizabeth were surprised when Jack and Nathan walked in.

"What smells so good?" Jack asked.

"We have been busy." Elizabeth said. "We made peanut butter cookies, chocolate chip cookies, and sugar cookies. We also made coconut bars and another one I can't remember. We also got bread rising and supper started."

"Wow." Jack said. "So you had fun."

"Lots of fun." Elizabeth said. "Gran even told me a few stories about you."

Jack looked at Gran and raised an eyebrow.

"I am afraid to ask." Jack said. "We will talk in a bit. Nathan and I both need to shower."

"Where is everyone else?" Nathan asked.

"James and Charlotte are around the ranch somewhere." Gran said. "Tommy is still in his room I assume. I haven't seen him since lunch."

"Thanks." Jack said. "We saw Grandpa over at the arena, but not Ma."

"Go get cleaned up." Gran said.

"Yes, ma'am." Nathan said.

Jack and Nathan headed to get cleaned up. They knew that they had boots that needed to be polished. Jack was also going to double check if there was anything else that he would need. Jack also needed to call Doug and let him know about Sugar Creek and remind him to grab his gear or get some. While the boys went to get cleaned up, Elizabeth and Gran finished cleaning up the kitchen and getting things ready for supper. About twenty minutes later, Nathan was the first to come back upstairs. He was wearing a pair of worn Wrangler blue jeans and a faded purple/gray short sleeve henley shirt. His hair was still damp and it looked like he had used his fingers to comb through it.

"Better?" Gran asked.

"Much." Nathan said. "I know that I will be sore tomorrow. It has been awhile since I rode and even longer since I jumped."

"If you are hurting before bed." Gran said. "Ask JP for some muscle rub. It is my own homemade stuff. JP always uses it when he has been riding. I left a large jar of it in his room this morning. Please let me know if you need more, it won't take much to make another batch."

"I think I will do that." Nathan said. "I normally use icy hot."

"Oh." Gran said. "This is much better, but works the same. I also think mine smells better."

"I will take your word on that." Nathan said.

"Nathan." Gran said. "Cheshire called while you were in the shower. They said that they didn't have yours or Doug's size breeches in white. They said they would order them and have them delivered here by the end of the week."

"What are you talking about?" Elizabeth said.

"Sorry." Nathan said. "Jack hasn't had a chance to talk to you. Jack fired that Ryan kid this afternoon. Because of that, Jack agreed to jump at the Sugar Creek competition in three weeks. He sort of challenged me to jump with him. When we went to register, we realized that they were requiring white breeches for the competition. I only picked up a pair of black. Jack also thought that Doug might want to jump as well. Jack called him and he is going to pick up shirts and jackets for us in the city and bring them when he comes. We just thought it would be easier to get the breeches at the same time. Jack planned to stop there after church tomorrow."

"So you are staying for three weeks?" Elizabeth asked.

"Yes." Nathan said. "If you want, arrangements can be made for you to go back to the city anytime."

"You are more than welcome to stay as long as you want, dear." Gran said.

"Sorry." Jack said. "I was going to talk to you."

Elizabeth turned at the sound of Jack's voice. She looked at him, shook her head and laughed. Jack was also wearing worn Wrangler blue jeans and a short sleeve henley shirt, only Jack's was a gray color. His hair was also damp and looked like it had been finger combed.

"What?" Jack asked.

"Did you two plan this?" Elizabeth asked motioning between the two boys.

Jack got his first look at Nathan. Both shook their heads laughing. They didn't see anything wrong with what they were wearing. As Elizabeth looked at Jack, she realized how fit he was. She knew that he was fit, because she had snuggled with him and he had wrapped his arm around her, but to see him there in a tight henley with his arm muscles on full display. Elizabeth had to walk away and get a drink. She was sure that she was turning red looking at Jack. Elizabeth also realized how fit Nathan was. She reasoned again that if she hadn't had the connection with Jack and met Nathan first that she could have seen herself being with Nathan. It wasn't that she wasn't attracted to Nathan, because she was. She would admit that he was a very good looking young man, but she knew that her heart belonged to Jack.

"What, it is comfortable?" Jack said.

"I agree." Nathan said. "I am not going anywhere tonight, so I wanted to be comfortable."

"Still." Elizabeth said. "It is funny. You are almost dressed identical."

"JP." Gran said. "Please set the table. Nathan, can you go get Tommy, please."

"I already told him to come up." Jack said. "He said he was going to finish the level he was playing. But knowing Tommy that could be awhile."

"Please go get him and tell him he has ten minutes or he doesn't eat." Gran said.

"Yes, ma'am." Nathan said.

Jack went about setting the table and Nathan went to get Tommy. About that time James and Charlotte came in and got washed up.

"Smells good in here." James said.

"Thank you." Gran said. "Elizabeth and I were busy baking and cooking this afternoon. Supper should be ready in about ten minutes. We are just waiting for the rolls while the roast is resting."

"So what did you make?" Charlotte asked.

"For supper." Gran said. "We did a large pork roast with new potatoes and carrots. We also have a fresh garden salad with things the kids picked up at the farmers market. We made some gravy and there are fresh rolls in the oven. We also have some fresh fruit cut up that the kids also picked up. Overall, a well rounded meal for all of us."

"Wow." James said.

"Elizabeth also helped me bake." Gran said. "We got cookies and bars made for us and the hands. We have bread rising and I was thinking of making cinnamon rolls."

"You have been busy." James said.

Tommy and Nathan walked in and Gran looked at Tommy.

"Hats off at the table." Gran said.

"Yes, ma'am." Tommy mumbled.

Tommy pulled his hat off and plopped down in a chair. Everyone else took a seat while Elizabeth and Gran put the food on the table. Once everyone was seated, James led them in prayer. Everyone enjoyed the wonderful meal that had been put on the table. They talked about the day, riding and jumping. They also talked about the competition at the charity event and Sugar Creek. James was excited that he was going to have two, possibly three riders at Sugar Creek. He was really hoping to have a good season to show off and expand their jumping business.

Both James and Jack knew that it was a way to increase revenue and also it got more people to see the names of Coal Creek and Thornton Thoroughbreds. Granted they knew that they might have to expand into other horses, but Jack wanted to use as many thoroughbreds as possible. He and Laura had found that they make excellent jumpers. Granted, Jack wasn't opposed to Dutch warmbloods, Morgans or even quarter horses. He had been on the lookout for some good bloodlines and was hoping to invest in a few mares and a couple studs. He knew that they could cross breed with the thoroughbreds, but he also wanted some pure breeds. Jack was lost in thoughts of jumping and future horses and didn't notice that almost everyone else was finished eating.

"Are you okay there, JP?" Charlotte asked. "I have never seen Tommy finish eating before you."

"Sorry." Jack said. "I was lost in thought about everything that needs to get done."

"One thing at a time." James said.

"Yes, Sir." Jack said.

Jack finished eating and then helped Nathan with the dishes.

"So what do you want to do tonight?" Nathan asked.

"I was hoping to relax." Jack said. "We have a large outdoor fireplace and I like to look at the stars. Can't see them in the city. I also have my guitar and was hoping to get some practice in."

"Do you have another one?" Nathan asked. "I wouldn't mind playing with you."

"I am sure that we have a few of them around." Jack said. "We also need to polish our boots."

"Can we do that in front of the fireplace?" Nathan asked.

"I like the way that you think." Jack said.

After they finished up the dishes, Jack went and got another guitar for Nathan. Nathan opened the brandy that he had bought and poured himself a glass. He wasn't going anywhere and he technically wasn't working if they were staying at the ranch.

"What did you get there?" James asked.

"I pick up some local brandy at the farmer's market." Nathan said. "I figured since everyone is staying in tonight, it would be okay to have a glass."

"I have no problem with that." James said. "Mind pouring me a glass?"

"Sure." Nathan said. "Neat or on the rocks?"

"Neat." James said.

They each took their glass and headed out to sit near the fireplace. It was still a little warm to start the fire, but James had gotten it ready. He had also set the boys boots and polish on the back porch.

"Very nice place you have here." Nathan said as they sat down. "I can't wait to see more of it."

"There is plenty to see." James said. "I am sure that JP will want to go on some trail rides. Also, Thursday night we are having a large bonfire for all the hands. JP usually plays a few songs. I am sure that is why he wants to practice. He is actually quite good, but he doesn't think so."

"So where is this bonfire?" Nathan said.

"Down on the back side of the property." James said. "It is just for our workers and their families. We sometimes also invite some close friends who are more like family. We do a large picnic supper for everyone. We will roast a pig, but also have burgers and hotdogs for the kids. The older crowd leaves after JP sings a song or two. The younger people can stay out as long as they want. My only rules are no drinking and driving and everyone needs to be at work on time on Friday. We usually do it on a Friday night, but with the shows and racing it just wasn't going to work so we decided on a Thursday night. I also wanted to make sure that JP was here."

"Sounds like fun." Nathan said.

"It is." Jack said. "I have been looking forward to it. Doug and Lee always love the bonfire. I hope that you will as well."

"I haven't been to one of those in a long time." Nathan said.

"One what?" Elizabeth asked, coming out on the porch with Gran and Charlotte.

"A bonfire." Nathan said.

"I was just telling him about Thursday." James said. "We have a large picnic supper for all the workers and their families. Then we have a large bonfire with singing and dancing."

"Sounds like fun." Elizabeth said.

The boys tuned their guitars while Charlotte and Gran moved a couple more chairs over for them. James decided to polish the boys boots and let them play. When James picked up the rag and polish, Jack looked at him to receive a nod that it was okay.

"Forgive me if I mess up." Nathan said. "Something else I haven't done in a while."

"I haven't played in a few months, either." Jack said. "That is why I want to practice before Thursday."

"John Parker." Charlotte said. "You have been playing guitar since you were four or five years old. The only activity that you have done longer is riding a horse and that is not by much."

Jack blushed and ducked his head. He flipped open the notebook that he had set in front of him and Nathan.

"Let's start with something easy." Jack said. "At least to get warmed up. Do you know I Shot the Sheriff or Brown Eyed Girl? If not, I have a list of other ones. I just figured we needed to start somewhere."

"Let's do Brown Eyed Girl." Nathan said.

Jack flipped to that page just so they would have it if they needed. Jack started strumming his guitar. After a few notes, Nathan joined in. After the intro, Gran picked up the words and sang along as the boys played. After a few times though, they were feeling better about playing. They played a couple more songs, that Elizabeth didn't really know as both were country songs and she didn't listen to that much country. Then Jack flipped to another page and looked at Nathan, who nodded. A couple of notes in and Elizabeth recognized Danny Boy right away. She waited and then started singing along with Gran. By the chorus, Gran had dropped out and Elizabeth was singing by herself. When the song was over, Jack looked at Elizabeth.

"Another hidden talent." Jack said with a smile. "We might have to get you to sing on Thursday."

"Oh, I don't know about that." Elizabeth said. "I usually only sing in church or when I am with a few friends."

"But you have such a lovely voice." James said. "It reminds me of Laura. She loved to sing while Jack played."

Elizabeth looked around the group and wasn't sure if it was a good thing or not.

"Okay." Elizabeth said. "I will think about it, but only a couple songs if I agree."

Jack smiled. He liked Elizabeth's voice and wanted to hear more. It also made him think of a song that he had heard that he wanted to play for her. He knew that he would have to look up the chords since he hadn't added it to his notebook. James lit the fire and Nathan played a song while Jack ran inside for something. When Jack got back, he had a couple of sweatshirts. He handed one to Elizabeth and one to Nathan. He then picked up his guitar again and flipped to another page. Nathan looked at the song.

"I don't know that one." Nathan said.

"I will play it." Jack said. "It is not hard, so if you want you can join me if you feel comfortable."

"Okay." Nathan said.

Jack started playing I Am Gonna Be Somebody by Travis Tritt. Elizabeth didn't recognize the song right away, but then when Jack started singing, she knew that she had heard the song before and she liked it.

Bobby played his guitar on the harder side of town

Where it's hard for a poor boy to find the money

He had dedication, he had the heart and soul

Somehow knew he was born to play

People said get a real job support your family

'Cause there's no future on the road your takin'

But he never said a word, the dreamer just kept on

Late at night you could hear him say

(He'd say)

I'm gonna be somebody

One of these days I'm gonna break these chains

I'm gonna be somebody someday,

You can bet your hard-earned dollar I will

The road was a struggle, took him ten years to the top

And now he's number one on the stage and the radio

Still he can't believe how people come from miles around

When it seems like only yesterday when he would say

I'm gonna be somebody

One of these days I'm gonna break these chains

I'm gonna be somebody someday,

You can bet your hard-earned dollar I will

Bobby played his hometown, one full moon August night

When He heard a voice in the front row singin

It was a sandy-haired River boy with same ole hungry eyes

He Looked up at Bobby and said

I'm gonna be somebody

One of these days I'm gonna break these chains

I'm gonna be somebody someday,

You can bet your hard-earned dollar I will

You know I will yeah yeah

I'm gonna be somebody

One of these days I'm gonna break these chains

I'm gonna be somebody someday,

You can bet your hard-earned dollar I will

Oh yeah

You can bet your hard earned dollar I will

By the second verse, Nathan had joined Jack in playing and singing. Gran, James and Charlotte were enjoying listening to Jack play and they were all thinking that Nathan was pretty good as well. Elizabeth was stunned when she really listened to Jack sing. She thought that he could have been a recording artist. He was that good. She listened to the rich tenor of his voice and how it blended with Nathan's slightly lower voice. Elizabeth looked over and saw Gran wipe a tear from her eye. Again, Elizabeth wondered if she was thinking of Laura and wondered if Jack had been right about what he felt. Elizabeth hadn't known Laura, but she realized that it must be hard to see the others continue to live their lives and do things that they used to do with Laura and not feel bad.

Shortly after that song, Tommy wandered out to sit with everyone. He hadn't spent much time outside of his room and he knew that his mother wasn't happy with him playing games all the time, so he decided to call it a night and join everyone for some family time. Nathan and Jack went back and forth picking songs for another half hour. By that time the fire was dying down and it was getting late.

"We should probably head to bed." Gran said. "We have church in the morning. We will leave here by quarter to eight. Mass is at nine. James is an usher this week so we have to be there earlier."

"Yes, ma'am." Nathan said. "How are we going to all get there?"

"You, Jack and Elizabeth can take one vehicle." Charlotte said. "The rest of us will go together."

"Sounds good." Nathan said. "I will just need an address."

"It should already be programmed into the GPS." James said. "I had one of the hands program it with places that we frequently visit. You can always add other places as needed. It should be ready for you in the truck that you used earlier today. If you feel comfortable Nathan, you may use that vehicle while you are here. There should be enough room for you all, even when Doug and Lee come. If you need, I will make other arrangements."

"No, that truck should be just fine." Nathan said. "I was going to let you know that there was only about a quarter tank of gas left."

"Probably already taken care of." James said. "But if not, it will be enough to get you to church and JP can fill it up afterwards. Just keep the receipt and I will make sure you are paid back."

"Yes, Sir." Jack said.

Jack and Nathan wiped down their guitars before putting them away. Jack opened a cabinet in the wall and set his guitar case inside and reached for Nathan's. Nathan wasn't sure about leaving the guitars outside, but if Jack was fine with it who was he to argue. People stood and started with their goodnights. Gran and James were the first to head in. Quickly followed by Charlotte and Tommy.

"You both are really good." Elizabeth said as Jack made sure the fire was out.

"Thank you." Nathan said. "I haven't played in awhile. I forgot how much fun it was to play and sing with others."

"Don't get to do that much?" Jack asked.

Nathan looked at them for a moment and then ducked his head just a bit.

"To be honest." Nathan said. "I don't have many friends. My job makes it hard, sometimes. On top of that, I usually am more inclined to sit back and watch everything."

"Well." Elizabeth said. "We can't have that now can we."

"I agree." Jack said. "I may not have a large group of close friends, but you are more than welcome to join us."

"Thank you." Nathan said. "Let's head in. I need to text security with the plan for tomorrow morning."

"Do you think we could go out for ice cream after church?" Elizabeth asked.

"Well." Jack said. "We usually go out for brunch after church, but if you still want ice cream, I am sure that we can arrange that. Don't forget, Nathan and I need to get some jumping in."

"I didn't forget." Elizabeth said. "Maybe we can do brunch, come back here and jump, then head for ice cream."

"We will just have to see." Jack said, looking at Nathan.

Jack, Elizabeth and Nathan made sure everything was picked up before heading inside. They went straight downstairs. Jack made sure that Elizabeth was okay and knew that he was nearby. She thanked him and closed the door to the room.