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Chapter One hundred fifty-two
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Thinking Ahead
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Later, after the Coulters had explained their news to the Thatchers and Hudson, they retreated to Elizabeth's apartment and to bed.
Quietly, Elizabeth slipped from her apartment into that of her parents and knocked on their bedroom door, whispering, "Mother? Father? Are you still awake?"
"Sure, Honey, come in," William's voice rumbled softly as he sat up in bed. "Is everything alright? That is some news the Coulters' shared. Your mother and I were discussing it all!"
"Yes, it is. I think I am still absorbing it, however, I have something to ask you. What would you think of letting them use my apartment while Nathan and I are on our honeymoon and maybe moving into this place once you return to Hamilton? I'm not sure if you will keep my place or not. I don't even know if they would want to, but it might give them some time to figure out where they want to live. The wedding week and weekend will be so full of activities, they'll have a lot to settle. I was thinking that they might store their belongings in the furniture building and live here to take care of this furnished place for a while."
Grace and William searched each other's faces, surprised. William spoke first, "Remembering how generous the Coulters have been to you, Elizabeth, to Jack and to us when in Hope Valley, I wouldn't object. We can arrange for them to use one of the reserved hotel rooms until you depart, then once your belongings are moved to your house, they can stay there." Pausing, William hesitated, "I do intend to keep all three apartments indefinitely, and use yours for guests and business associates. I believe I would prefer they stay in your apartment, as I want ours always available for us anytime we decide to return. Grace? What do you think?"
"I agree, Sweetheart. I'm glad to host them, but would rather our place remain available for us. After settling so well here, my only desire to return to Hamilton is to be with Julie. You know, to see how this relationship with her Doctor progresses!" Grace laughed. "I never would have guessed that I'd be willing to depart Hamilton on a moment's notice, but I am!"
"Okay. May I make the suggestion to Rosemary and Lee tomorrow for my apartment? It would give them one less thing to worry about with such a major life change."
"You may, Bessie. It is very thoughtful of you to help them in this way." Noticing something in his daughter's expression, William questioned, "How do you feel about them moving?"
"I talked to Nathan briefly… we haven't had much time to talk since Saturday morning but I guess we'll catch up after the Coulters' depart…" Elizabeth shook her head, continuing, "I think I have mixed feelings about Rosemary and Lee moving. I do want them to come however I am just beginning to find my place here in Regina. I confess I'm enjoying the new friendships I am forming here, plus need to guard time with Nathan. Does it seem strange that I was looking forward to beginning anew; to making a fresh start with him and our marriage, and the people in Regina?"
"Honey, I believe everyone you know will honor your marriage vows and give you and dear Nathan the space you need. We are all aware that you'll have less privacy than most newlyweds since you are already parents. You may find people offer to stay with the children or invite Allie for overnights like she had in Hope Valley, or they may babysit Jack so you and Nathan can enjoy some privacy. That might be an advantage of the Coulters presence since Jack and Patrick are friends."
Grace motioned for her daughter to come sit beside her. "In the beginning, you may want to introduce Rosemary to your new friends. Maybe host a tea once your home is settled? I would recommend you wait and see who gravitates to whom. You already are establishing friendships with Jane and Johanna, maybe partially because of Nathan, Allie and the Mounties, so Rosemary may find other women with whom she has things in common."
"I wouldn't be concerned with Rosemary! As outgoing as she is, it won't take her long to make friends. Plus, Regina has many opportunities lacking in Hope Valley, concerts, theater, maybe getting involved in writing for the local newspaper… She'll find her way to additional relationships, Honey, yet there will be times when the familiarity you've shared together will be a blessing to you both."
"May I interject?" William asked.
"Of course, Sweetheart," Grace patted her husband's knee.
"Your mother's advice is wonderful, Bessie. I would just like to add that you are joining your life with Nathan now. You can share your concerns with him and face challenges together. You haven't had that privilege before. You don't have to figure it out alone, or even resolve anything now. Also, may I suggest you make it a matter of prayer? God knows your heart and may have a plan that makes any worry for naught."
"That's true. All this is so new and unexpected I haven't prayed about it yet. I did ask Nathan to pray though, and would you both pray too?"
"Of course we will. Now, go rest and give thanks for all your blessings and we'll see you for breakfast in the morning, okay? Give me a kiss, Honey?" Grace offered her cheek and kissed Elizabeth before whispering, "I love you, dear daughter."
"I love you too, Mother. Thank you." Elizabeth circled the bed and kissed her father saying, "I love you too, Father."
"Oh Bessie, my sweet girl. I love you so much and am so thrilled for the direction God is leading you now. Sweet dreams about that wonderful man you'll see in the morning!"
. .
After Elizabeth closed the door behind her and they heard her close the inner hall door, Grace snuggled over to her husband.
"William? I hadn't thought of it, but with Nathan unable to drive he and Elizabeth can only be together at the Cottage and right now the Coulters are always present when she is there. Could we offer to take them to lunch and show them around the city so Elizabeth and Nathan can have some privacy? We can even bring the boys with us. I believe Lee said that Nathan would give them a brief tour at Depot on Wednesday or Thursday, so maybe tomorrow?"
"Excellent idea. After all they took great care of us in Hope Valley, so we can say we are returning the favor and Elizabeth and Nathan have some house and honeymoon things to discuss. They probably do, you know," William chuckled, adding, "although it may just be to talk about how soon they can move in and how many more days until March fifth!"
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Early, and before the family had arisen, William Thatcher called his future son-in-law, "Good morning, Nathan! I hoped you would be up by now. I have something private to discuss and figured this might be the best time to talk. Is that okay?"
"Of course, William. Let me pull out my chair and I am available," Nathan responded.
"I had a thought about your honeymoon, Son, and I wanted to offer you a private suite here at the hotel, but realize that will not actually be private with so much family and so many friends in town. Therefore, I am offering you the use of the Pullman car. It is stored here on a siding at the Regina rail yard and Grace and I won't need it until we return to Hamilton. I don't know your plans, nor do I need to know them except if you accept this offer," William chuckled, "as I will need to know to which train the car should be hitched! I know Regina is rather remote and the beginning of March is not the most ideal time of year for a site-seeing honeymoon, but I wondered if using the Pullman might ease that concern somewhat? In addition you wouldn't have to drive a long distance in a time of uncertain weather conditions."
"Really, William? That would be ideal! I had a recommendation to Winnipeg from my Supervisor and that is approximately a nine- to ten-hour trip so a sleeping car would be a blessing."
"Ah ha… I don't know what your friend has recommended, but I have visited the Hotel Fort Garry for business meetings so would highly recommend that as a lovely and elegant place to stay. I am certain you would be well-cared for. Also, there are extensive gardens to explore nearby and you can walk along the Assiniboine River."
"Fortuitous you should recommend The Fort Garry as that is where I was directed. Do you think Elizabeth would enjoy that? I mean she is getting a "grand hotel" experience right now so it wouldn't be a novel adventure."
"Son? Elizabeth will enjoy wherever you are together. Have no worries about that! Upon my visit I remained in the Hotel since I was not a tourist, but I can inquire about some restaurants to try if you want to sample some places in the area? I have the name of the Hotel Manager who could so advise."
"Well! I will take any information you can give me. I did check the train schedules and there is a trip that departs Regina late at night and arrives in Winnipeg mid- to late-morning, so a Pullman would be ideal for that. May I say a tentative 'yes' and let you know for sure after talking to Elizabeth? I want to surprise her, but will ask some fact-finding questions to ascertain if I am on the right track," Nathan laughed, "no pun intended!"
William chuckled, immensely enjoying this young man he himself had grown to love!
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At breakfast, the Coulters gladly accepted the Thatcher's invitation to lunch and Grace offered to watch the boys so, after Hudson left Elizabeth at the Cottage, he gave them a tour of the important places he had discovered over recent weeks. Lee and Rosemary were impressed and especially grateful for the perspective of someone intimately acquainted with a big city like Hamilton as well as one who knew the small community of Hope Valley.
Hudson happily drove them past the old Post Office with its famous clock tower, explaining it contained the Globe Theatre which might be of interest to Rosemary.
As they pulled over to observe an ornate building, Hudson noted, "This is the 'gingerbread' City Hall, where Allie's concert was held." Hudson made sure to mention it contained a large theatre, a concert hall, and ballroom, again since he knew of Rosemary's past theater experience.
"I met with the Mayor yesterday and from what I saw inside, it is unique!" Lee commented.
"When you return you must take a tour inside as it is a beautiful venue. William allowed me to accompany him as he and David were given a private tour arranged by the Mayor a few days ago." Hudson chuckled, by way of explanation, "You know William's business interests open many doors for him, so I tagged along this time!"
Continuing their drive, Hudson waved his hand, "Now, this is the shopping district and the R.H. Williams Department Store, famous for wonderful holiday window displays, Canada Drug and Bookstore is over there and I believe you said your potential property is around the corner from here?"
Rosemary exclaimed excitedly, "Oh Lee, may I see it… at least on the outside?"
"Hudson, if you would, please?"
"Of course!"
Rosemary approved as she sized up the three story, gray stone building, with the first floor's tall, wide windows, trimmed in black. There were double doors in mahogany with beveled glass which appeared to open to a second set of inner double doors with larger windows. "That will make a perfect showroom, Lee! Oh, this is so exciting!"
Lee explained to Hudson what he had already discussed with his wife, "I'm thinking that at first we may set up a work-station visible from the street, with a carpenter crafting some pieces that passersby may observe? On one side we may have the samples begin to accumulate and take special orders. I appreciate the location as well because it isn't far from the main shopping area."
"If you look across the street, Lee," Hudson pointed, "the Victoria Café is where you'll be having lunch today. It is a well-known and frequented eating establishment so you may also have a lot of interest from their patrons."
"Ahh… I wasn't aware of that but this location has even more potential!"
Completing their tour, the Coulters were impressed with the size and beauty of St. Anne's Academy for Girls, Regina Boy's Academy, Government House, Victoria Park, and Depot.
"I had no idea, Hudson. Depot is enormous! Why, it is a small town in and of itself! I look forward to a tour there for sure!" Lee exclaimed. "Nathan has certainly taken a step up with this transfer. I haven't known about how extensive the Academy really is!"
"Oh, he has and is well-known and well-respected too," Hudson gladly reported. "Ask Elizabeth and the Thatchers to tell you about his impact there in just these past few months. You won't get the information from Nathan, so you need to ask specific questions to those who are proud to share!"
After observing the Saskatchewan Provincial Legislative Building, Hudson returned Lee and Rosemary to the Hotel to freshen up before they, along with two excited little boys, would accompany the Thatchers to lunch.
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Elizabeth knocked then used her key to enter the Cottage, surprising Nathan. "Hi Honey!"
"Lizbeth! I wasn't expecting you until later. Wait…" Nathan glanced around her, "Are you alone?"
"Surprise! I am. We have a couple of hours just to ourselves and I brought lunch too!" As she removed her coat, she found Nathan had immediately come to her and quickly wrapped his good arm around her waist to draw her close.
"Music to my ears…" Nathan whispered as he gently kissed her perfectly-shaped pink lips. "How I love to show you my love with kisses. I benefit from them too you know!" He chuckled low and captured her lips again as Elizabeth wrapped her arms around his waist.
"Mutual benefits for us both!" She whispered back when their lips parted briefly.
Pulling away, Nathan tucked a stray curl behind her ear and huskily asked, "To what do we owe this privilege? Where is everyone?"
"Hudson is giving Rosemary and Lee a driving tour around town. Since he has been running errands and chauffeuring my parents for the past month he's familiar with the sites. Mother is watching the boys and later Father will treat them all to lunch at the Victoria Café. So, we have the benefit of time for just the two of us! Isn't that wonderful?"
"I will have to thank them all for this delightful opportunity," Nathan smiled his lop-sided smile as his eyes twinkled. "Shall I make some more coffee?"
"I'll make the coffee if you can add another log to the fire? It will be even cozier on this frigid day. I can't believe how mild it seemed yesterday without the blustery winds. A cold weather system must have blown in overnight. Did you hear that wind?"
"I slept soundly so I confess I didn't. Maybe it is more noticeable to you being higher up in the Hotel?"
"True, it probably is." Elizabeth disappeared into the kitchen, started a new pot of coffee then unloaded her basket into the icebox. She unwrapped croissants that Hudson had procured for their breakfast (having thoughtfully added an extra two of the buttery treats for Nathan) and set them on a plate. She hummed as she fixed a tray with mugs, napkins, spoons, knives and two jars of jam, unaware she was being watched. When she turned she found Nathan leaning on the door jam, having taken his signature position so familiar on many mornings in Hope Valley.
He spoke admiration and love with his eyes, although he used no words.
'Those eyes!' Elizabeth thought to herself as she returned his gaze, 'Nathan Grant you own me with those looks…'
Her cheeks pinked as she spoke in a low tone, "I can't tell you how many times I wanted to cross the street in Hope Valley and do this," Elizabeth glided across the kitchen and wrapped her arms around Nathan's waist, hugging him. "I also wanted to do this…" She lifted her face, stood on tiptoe and kissed her handsome man.
He placed his one hand into her soft curls as he admitted, "And I can't tell you how many times I wanted to do this…" Their lips met again, softly, gently, unhurried and sweet. When they broke apart, Nathan chuckled, "Oh, and was that a pastry I saw over there?" He wiggled his eyebrows and they began to laugh together.
"Nathan Grant! As if my kisses aren't sweet enough," She backed away, turned, and looked coyly over her shoulder.
"Ahhh…" Nathan closed his eyes and rolled his neck with her playfulness. "Lizabeth… It's not fair for you to do that to me. I am almost undone!"
Taking a step closer to the table, he matched her teasing tone as he reached for the croissant, "Almost," Nathan grinned and took a bite, "but not quite!"
"Nathan! You need to wait until the coffee is ready!"
She lifted the percolator just as the bubbling stilled, adding. "Here now, you need to be more patient."
"Oh, I've mastered patience in a lot of areas, but I am losing patience with you, my Love." He glanced at the wall calendar and inclined his head, "Those days are not getting crossed off quickly enough for me."
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Having poured the steaming coffee, Elizabeth lifted the tray and headed to the front room followed by a grinning Nathan.
After enjoying another bite of croissant and blowing on the steaming mug, Nathan took a tentative sip, inhaling the wonderful aroma of his morning brew. "Ahhh..." He exhaled a satisfied breath, lifted the cup, and with his half-smile said, "thank you."
Taking a sip herself, Elizabeth set the mug back on the tray and turned to Nathan. "I spoke to Mother and Father last night and I want to discuss something with you before we mention it to Lee and Rosemary. My parents have agreed to offer the use of my apartment to the Coulters after our wedding. Father intends to keep their apartment for themselves, the office as is, and the space I am in right now in the middle will be available for personal or business visitors. Since they will be returning to Hamilton for a while, they agreed to offer my apartment as a temporary place for the Coulters. What do you think about that?"
"I think that is a lovely idea. I'm sure they would appreciate some unhurried time to find a new home. I know they've lived in cities as single people, but Regina will be a different experience for them as a family."
"Good! We can tell them when the time seems right! I think they will be pleased. You know, Bill can stay with me or with David if he needs to."
"Sorry! Didn't I tell you? Bill will take over Adeli's apartment when he arrives. Adeli is moving to Ottawa next week."
"I don't think I knew that!" Elizabeth laughed, "I think our lives have been so full I didn't think to ask about Bill's plan. When does he arrive?"
"Your Father has offered to move Bill and his vehicle in time to begin his new position on February first, but Bill hasn't given me his moving date yet. It is coming up soon though, isn't it!"
"I'm glad, you know? I miss Bill and he really is a part of our family so having him nearby will bless him and bless us too!"
"Don't tell him, but I have hardly had time to miss him these past couple of weeks. When he is in town though, I'll be grateful. We must set a regular night for weekly dinners just like we did with Peter and Carol, or should I say that Peter and Carol did with us? They made us feel welcomed and at home, so I want to do that for Bill, especially since he is alone."
"We will. I really hope it works out for Bill and Adeli. Do you?" Elizabeth questioned.
"I do. Did I tell you that the first night he took her to dinner he returned with my car and pinged my window with a pebble? He wanted to tell me they had kissed!" Nathan grinned, remembering, "He was as excited as a schoolboy!"
"Oh Nathan! That is so sweet. Dear Bill needs to be loved." Elizabeth's breath caught as her eyes filled. "I am praying for him."
Leaning back to sip more coffee, Nathan and Elizabeth contemplated their many special family relationships in silence.
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Glancing at Nathan's journal, open on the coffee table before them, Elizabeth questioned, "What were you doing before I arrived?"
"Oh!" He exclaimed excitedly. "I just got off the telephone with Joseph who said he had a long talk with Ellwood Huntley! The Reverend has agreed to sharing the wedding service with Joseph and will be calling to set-up an appointment with us to discuss our thoughts. Isn't that wonderful?"
"It sure is! That means Minnie will come along too? Maybe they'll bring Angela? Did Joseph mention any of that? Allie will be so thrilled to introduce Angela to her Regina friends!"
"He didn't say, but acknowledged that it was difficult to find someone to substitute for him for the Sunday he will be here. He finally contacted a friend in Union City who was willing to drive out for the weekend! Minnie promised to leave meals for him in their icebox, so Minnie's cooking skills have wide acclaim and may have sweetened the response!"
"So next we need to meet with Ellwood? Too bad you go back to work next week, but maybe we can arrange for us to meet him on your way home from Depot? We don't want to delay as our day is drawing near," Elizabeth giggled, "in spite of your previously expressed perspective!"
Abruptly changing the course of their conversation, Elizabeth placed her hand on Nathan's arm, "I know you don't want to tell me our honeymoon destination, but I do have to know what to pack, Honey. Can you give me any hints? Have you secured a place and transportation and…."
Laughing Nathan commented, "Well you sure turned on a dime!" He leaned over to kiss her forehead before continuing, "I have a plan, a place to stay and transport is arranged. I believe we will enjoy it if you don't mind a grand hotel experience?"
"Oh? That sounds intriguing. How did you learn about the place? Did someone we know recommend it to you?"
"I know what you are doing with your questions, Elizabeth Thornton, and I am well prepared to evade them. Remember my profession includes learning interrogation skills! What you may not realize is that includes both asking and answering, or evading answers! I am a good match for a teacher and a mother…" He chuckled as Elizabeth squared her shoulders and huffed.
Exasperated that Nathan knew she was trying to weasel information out of him, Elizabeth only responded, "Nathan. I was asking serious questions it would be helpful to know."
"Ah ha, is that what it was. Well, let me give you a serious response then. I received an unsolicited suggestion from someone I know and trust to stay in an elegant hotel with expansive sunset views, although I doubt you and I will care about any views except of each other…" Nathan chuckled as his fiancée's eyes widened with surprise even as a peachy-pink blush crept up her neck.
"The Hotel is luxurious and we will be well-attended while also enjoying privacy. I haven't made the reservations yet, but does it sound interesting to you or would you rather travel further by train and stay in a country cottage somewhere?"
"A bit of luxury sounds lovely to me, although I would be happy wherever we are if we are beginning our married life. You mustn't be too extravagant though, Honey, as we have Prince Edward Island to look forward to as our Honeymoon Part Two! I recognize we have chosen a difficult time of year to marry, but we will make the best of it!"
"Oh I intend to do just that," Nathan winked and nudged her arm. "So you are okay with my idea?"
"I am. You know I could talk to Father and ask about using the Pullman car if you would like?" Elizabeth offered.
Nathan sighed before responding, "You, Elizabeth Thatcher Thornton, are a difficult person to surprise. Let's just say, you need not ask anything to anyone about our Honeymoon. Well, except about your wardrobe maybe? Bring some formal dresses, some warm outerwear and comfortable walking shoes and, ah… something beautiful for my eyes only." In spite of his teasing tone, Nathan blushed with his last request.
Returning his gaze with a blush of her own, Elizabeth whispered, "I have it all covered." Realizing that might not have been the best choice of word she tried again, "I have it taken care of. Is that better?" She giggled as she watched her intended realize her subtle correction.
"Ah… I believe that sounds wonderful."
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Redirecting their thoughts and conversation, Fiancée and Fiancé finalized their wedding program in preparation for meeting with Reverend Huntley, deciding on Scriptures, hymns and promises.
"How do you feel about our vows, Lizbeth? Do you want the formal, traditional vows or ones we write to express our personal promises to each other?"
Looking into Nathan's eyes to be certain how he would take her response, Elizabeth spoke quietly, "I am torn. When I married Jack we recited our own vows, yet I don't recall his words although I remember some of my own. Now however, I might like the traditional vows so that we would remember together in every wedding we attend from now on. Do you understand?" Observing his thoughtfulness, Elizabeth questioned, "What do you prefer?"
"I know it is unconventional, but I would like both." Nathan explained, "I love the wording of the formal vows, but I want to say so much more. Would you be willing to share both?"
"I think I would love that, Honey, however would the Pastors approve?"
"I don't see why not. We are doubling our commitments to each other!" Nathan leaned over to kiss her temple, silently breathing in her fragrance while lifting an arrow prayer of thanksgiving.
Hesitantly, Elizabeth spoke, "Nathan, my Love, will you sing at our wedding?"
"Me? Sing a solo you mean?"
"Yes. Would you? I would love you to sing."
"I hadn't thought of that, but let me give it some thought?" Chuckling, Nathan added, "That might be extremely unconventional you know!"
"I do not intend to have our wedding meet anyone's standards or expectations but our own. We've been through too much and waited too long to miss out on a wedding that is ours, that perfectly fits us together and with our children," Elizabeth stated with conviction. "Is there any special way we can include the children?"
"I've thought of having Allie read a Scripture. Have you thought about how Jack can participate? I know he can carry the rings and hand them to us, but anything else?"
"Nathan! I have an idea. Could both Jack and my Father walk me down the aisle? Then Joseph could ask 'who gives this woman to be married to this man' and Jack could say, 'I do' followed by my Father saying 'and her Mother and I do.' What do you think of that?"
"I love it. There might not be a dry eye in the sanctuary, but it would be precious. Jack couldn't carry the rings though… and what about a bouquet for you? That might be awkward." Contemplating possibilities, Nathan slowly traced the length of her fingers with his own.
"What if Allie carries the rings, tied to ribbons on the bouquet? She'll have flowers of her own, but can carry mine together with hers. When we return down the aisle afterwards, I can carry my own flowers and Allie and Jack can follow right behind us, holding hands. Wouldn't that be beautiful?"
"It would, indeed," smiled Nathan. "I think we are making this a beautiful, meaningful wedding that is uniquely ours."
"Don't forget to think about singing too, Nathan."
"Right…"
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