Author's Note:
Greetings, dear Readers!
After a serious hack, scam and theft of identity, I lost the use of my laptop from November until January. My time continues to be consumed with recovering accounts, changing passwords, meetings with the bank, police, etc. and dealing with the loss of trust. They were difficult weeks and I just learned that the lost funds will not be restored. Throughout these weeks though, I have seen God's goodness in providing people and the understanding that I needed, the trustworthy restoration of my laptop, and a financial gift to help in some measure, among other things. I am grateful to God for his care and now learning deeper lessons of forgiving others and trusting Him.
I have hovered over social media on my phone and made occasional comments, however I couldn't write. Now, after enjoying a special Christmas visiting family out-of-state, I have returned home and to my laptop, thus returning to my writing! This story is not over…
Thank you for your patience, and I hope to see that people are still interested and reading! To those who are, my deepest gratitude.
New Year Blessings, Eilie
. .
Chapter One-hundred Fifty-one
. .
The Interest of Friends
. .
"Hello, Nathan, Tim here. How are you this evening?" The Chief Superintendent continued, "I hope I am not interrupting anything?"
"Improving daily, Tim, thanks for asking. You are not interrupting as Elizabeth, Jack, and our friends returned to the Hotel a short time ago since they are tired travelers today. It's Saturday, so what can I do for you this evening?" Nathan inquired as he adjusted the receiver to his shoulder so he could pull out his desk chair and take a seat.
"I'm calling to inform you that Wes and I talked and concluded you could use a few extra days at home. He said he told you that, if you are up to it and the car ride is not too uncomfortable, you could go to church, but should leave early if you needed to. So we agreed for you to return to Depot on Wednesday through Friday mornings and then back to full-time the following week. Do you agree?"
"Well, it's not my first choice but I will agree. Getting out will be a blessing for certain! Also, that gives Wes some time to work with me on some exercises," Nathan responded, chuckling.
"I'm calling for another reason though. We are proceeding with the Cadets' visit to the Regina Home for the Aged on Wednesday morning. My assistant and Chaplain Thom are coordinating it this first time and response has been excellent in my opinion. We are taking Troop nine this week and Troop ten next. The faculty decided that we will alternate weeks with the Troops nearing their final months of training for now. I am sorry you cannot participate yet, but is there anything you want to include or comments you wish to make as we begin?"
"Oh! I confess I have been preoccupied and am sorry I haven't been involved in the planning thus far, but I am happy to learn these visits are proceeding. Ahhh…" Nathan paused thoughtfully, "I would suggest that the Cadets have some questions prepared in advance should they encounter a reticent retiree. Elizabeth and I recommended this to Allie for future visits. Also, please remind them to be mindful that they listen carefully and don't dominate the interaction with their own anecdotes. The goal is to give the elders opportunities to share their experiences and stories."
"Noted, Nathan. Thank you. If you think of anything else, please leave a message with my secretary on Monday? That gives us time to instruct the Cadets prior to the visits. I confess that I am looking forward to reports from all parties involved! I don't know why no one ever thought of this before, but I am thankful that you have done so. If there isn't anything else, I will let you return to your Saturday activities."
"Okay, Tim. I'll let you know if I think of anything else. We have visitors from Hope Valley over this weekend and next week, so I confess I may continue to be distracted! Sorry." Nathan chuckled.
"Oh? Other visitors besides Bill Avery? People must miss you very much to come so far and so soon!" Tim commented.
"Well, we became close and Rosemary is Elizabeth's best friend, so she and her husband's visit is welcomed!"
Interest piqued, Tim asked, "Rosemary? Is that the newspaper woman who sent the article soon after you arrived?"
With warming cheeks, Nathan responded, "Ah, yes, Rosemary Coulter, one and the same!"
"Ah ha! Well, if you give her a tour of Depot, please make sure to stop in to my office. I would very much like to meet her," Tim grinned as he spoke before voicing his farewell.
. .
"Entering the front room, Allie sat in the armchair across from her father. "I forgot to ask Miss Bess, but what are our menu plans for tomorrow? Shall I make something for lunch or…?"
Distractedly, Nathan responded as he had been pondering the Cadets visit to the elder Mounties, "Would you mind calling Elizabeth to inquire? I haven't any idea of the Coulter's schedule while they are here, but it would be helpful to know. Maybe call at the Thatcher's apartment first and ask them to have Elizabeth call us please? Excuse me for a moment."
Before Elizabeth could return the call, the Grant's telephone rang with another caller.
"Dad? It's Dr. Wes for you," Allie held the telephone extended to her father who was just returning from the kitchen.
"Hello, Wes. Is everything alright?" Nathan glanced at the clock on the mantelpiece, concerned.
"Of course. I just had an idea to run by you," Wes explained. "I would like to drive you to church tomorrow morning. That allows me to observe you and be certain of your comfort level as we go and I'll gladly bring you home early if needed. Ardis will go with Dan, Claire and Rachel, so I can bring Allie and Carol while still giving you space for pillows as needed. Will you agree?"
"That's very kind, Wes. I'm not sure I need all this attention, but as my doctor, I will agree to your plan," Nathan chuckled softly. "Thank you."
"Trust me, Nathan. Riding in a vehicle can be painful when bones and muscles are not one hundred percent. Every little bump and turn can shoot pain right through you. Don't worry in advance, just don't be overly confident. It is no shame to not be up to it yet, but hopefully you'll be fine. May I recommend you take your pain medication about a half-hour before we depart for church?"
. .
Leaving the pillows in the automobile, Wes rolled up a car blanket and adjusted it under Nathan's elbow in the sanctuary pew, allowing the arm in the sling to be supported. Joining Carol Collins in the pew behind the Grants, Thorntons, and their guests, Wes helped fill the pew along with the Thatchers, Hudson and David Wright.
Acknowledging Sergeant Grant's presence from the pulpit, Reverend Huntley, shared his gratitude for Nathan's ongoing recovery and prayed for his continued healing. Wisely, the pastor also thanked the congregation for their support in supplying meals, and encouraged them to continue as it was obvious that Nathan still needed assistance as he only had the use of one arm.
. .
Slipping out during the closing prayer as Wes could see Nathan wincing in discomfort, the Grants and Wes were leaving the parking lot before the congregation spilled onto the sidewalk.
"Sorry, Nathan. It appears you were fine until towards the end of the sermon, correct?" We pulled out onto the street.
"I hate to admit it, but not being free to adjust my position made me tense and I felt that tension in my shoulder." Changing the subject, Nathan inquired, "We aren't bringing Carol home?"
"No. I understand she is having dinner and spending the afternoon with William, Grace and Hudson. Your friends are bringing Elizabeth, Jack, and your meal from the Barrows shortly."
Nathan winced, "I guess you were right, Wes. I feel every motion of the automobile..."
Wes teased good naturedly, "You 'guess,' eh?"
. .
Elizabeth, Jack and the Coulters bustled into the Cottage full of reports of inquiries about Nathan's condition and many greetings sent his way by members of the choir and congregation.
Elizabeth hurried to Nathan to ascertain his comfort level. "Honey, are you alright? Did you take another pain pill?" She sat beside him and took his hand while examining his face. Seeing his nod, she leaned towards him, cupping his cheek with her hand and kissing him gently.
"You are such good medicine for me, Lizabeth. Always exactly what I need!" He held her hand, reluctant to let go.
"You seem to be well-known, Nathan," Interrupting, Lee teased and grinned. "I felt I was privileged to know a local hero and star there at church!"
Gulping and reddening, Nathan explained, "Maybe it's because I read a poem each Sunday throughout Advent that everyone knows who I am now. Trouble is, I don't remember all of their names!"
"You will in time, Nathan. Nice church and a friendly congregation. We met a lot of them and I am glad you've found a church home there at Knox Presbyterian," Lee observed.
"We are too, Uncle Lee," added Allie while she set the dining table with her mother's china and silverware. She questioned, "Did you meet the Samuels and the Blakes? They are really good friends of ours."
"Let's see…" Rosemary interjected as she reentered the living room, carrying a basket of dinner rolls from the kitchen. "Sally is your kindred spirit, and Ellie, and her brother, Jared, right? They seem to really appreciate you. Allie!"
Blushing Allie responded, "And I them."
. .
Rosemary and Lee exchanged knowing looks with Nathan and Elizabeth, before Elizabeth invited everyone to take a place at the table. Lee took care of the boys' handwashing needs while Elizabeth helped Nathan find a comfortable position at the dinner table.
Nathan gratefully accepted his fiancée's assistance and quietly admitted, "Thanks, Honey. I'm afraid that short excursion wore me out and I will need a nap this afternoon."
"That's fine," She patted his arm and took the seat between Nathan and Allie since Jack was seated with Patrick. "We'll converse quietly or may doze ourselves!"
. .
Awakening from a restful nap, Nathan returned to join Rosemary and Elizabeth in the front room. Accompanied by Uncle Lee, Allie had taken the little boys out for a walk around the property so giggles and shouts could now be heard as they played with snowballs on the front lawn.
Immediately rising to greet Nathan, Elizabeth gave him a quick kiss and helped him settle on the sofa before disappearing into the kitchen to make hot chocolate to warm everyone.
"So, Nathan, it is pretty wonderful to see you and Elizabeth together now. What was it like for you when she surprised you a few weeks ago?"
"I confess I was hesitant in the beginning, but after a few days of clearing the air between us we settled in to a happy ease with each other. Thank you for your prayers on her behalf and mine."
"Glad to play a small part although I was somewhat removed from a lot of Elizabeth's recovery, except for caring for Jack of course." Rosemary stared into the flaming glow beside her. "I'm glad you left when you did, Nathan, as painful as it was for us all."
"It was Providential, Rosemary, and it was God's plan to provide for us here as well as to expose, and reveal, and ultimately to heal. I am grateful and now it was worth it."
"Retrospect sure allows us to see God's hand, doesn't it? Just think of little Patrick. Lee and I remain amazed and thankful that he is now with us." Rosemary paused, turning her attention to Nathan as she changed the subject, "Did Lee share anything with you about his meetings tomorrow morning?"
"No, just that he had one and needed my vehicle. Why? What's up?" Nathan observed Rosemary, knowing how difficult it was for her to keep a secret. "I can ask Lee if you…"
Bursting open the door, two giggling young boys tumbled in, landing in a heap on the floor as Allie and Lee stepped around them and shut out the frigid air.
''It was fun, Daddy. Did you see me? I threw lots of snowballs and I got Uncle Lee lots!" Jack confessed as he removed his wet mittens and tried to unlatch the snow-encrusted clasps on his boots.
Not to be outdone, Patrick added, "Me too! We got Daddy good!"
"Way too many times, Jack. I hardly had a chance between the three of you, although Allie's throws were more targeted and the boys' throws more random." Lee laughed as he brushed the evidence of the snowballs' hits from the front of his coat.
Rosemary rose to assist with the removal of outerwear before heading to the kitchen to collect a towel to wipe the floor. "Watch out for the puddles, please, so we can keep your socks dry? Elizabeth is preparing hot chocolate to warm you and then we'll have some hot soup for supper!"
. .
With Allie at youth group and the young boys whispering to each other as they lay on top of Nathan's bed after their bedtime stories, the parents settled-in for a private chat around the fire.
"Uh, Nathan, Elizabeth, we have some news. Well the possibility of some news…" Lee began before being interrupted by his wife.
Unable to contain her joy, Rosemary blurted out, "We're moving to Regina!"
"Rosie…" Lee admonished, embarrassed. "We may be able to move, but I am investigating a possibility in the morning. I'll know more after my meetings and a call to my brother-in-law."
"Really?" Elizabeth and Nathan were stunned, speaking in unison.
"Since you departed, Rosie and I knew we didn't want to live so far apart, so I began to investigate a partnership with Susannah's husband, Stanley Thom. You know Stan owns a successful furniture store in Bellingham? Well, it turns out that Regina is lacking a dedicated furniture store and, since it is on the rail line, Coulter Lumber could supply the wood from Hope Valley and we may open a furniture business here."
Lee caught an excited breath and continued, "I don't know if you saw it in our back yard, but I built a front and back facing chair-for-two and have longed to build more furniture. I know you have built some too, Nathan, and I'm investigating starting a small furniture manufacturing business. I hope to hire woodworkers to craft from my prototypes and maybe your designs as well? We would begin with special orders until we can build up an inventory and open a store. I would operate and oversee the manufacturing and my brother-in-law would establish the retail side of things. We have some other thoughts and plans, but I'll wait to divulge them for the time being. What do you think?"
Rosemary gushed, "Wouldn't it be wonderful for us to be in the same town again?"
"It will, but what about Hope Valley?" ever practical, Nathan questioned. "What about the Lumber Mill and the Valley Voice? Are you really interested in leaving all that behind?"
"Jesse Flynn and Richard Wolf already operate the Mill, although I'll retain ownership for now. The future of the newspaper is still uncertain, but we have an interested journalist who might run the paper and possibly take it on. Otherwise, we may sell that. It's too early to finalize all the plans, but Rosie and I are excited about the possibilities."
"I am in shock!" Elizabeth explained her silence.
Unable to read her friend's expression, Rosemary asked, "Would it make you happy, Elizabeth?"
"Of course it would. We'd love to have both of you here… Oh, and Patrick too! Jack would be thrilled." Elizabeth grinned, thinking of Jack's happiness.
Joining Elizabeth's smiles for Jack's little friend, Nathan inquired, "If you can tell us, with whom do you meet tomorrow, Lee?"
"First I'll meet with Mayor Matthews. Although I previously sent a proposal and have spoken to him on the telephone, he wants to meet and ask his questions before the second meeting with some city leaders and local businessmen."
"Okay." Nathan inhaled deeply, "Well, we need to pray about all of this! How can we pray right now?"
"Please pray for favor with the city leaders tomorrow, for a possible location the Mayor has in mind, and for wisdom in the decisions and timing thereof." Lee chuckled, "Also, pray for God to bring to us the skilled employees we will need. Also, assuming all goes well, please pray for those remaining in Hope Valley? They are even now adjusting to the impending loss of Bill, so this will be an additional shock."
. .
Early Monday morning, Jake drove Allie to her Academy, while Lee headed to his meetings at City Hall.
Hudson chauffeured Elizabeth, Rosemary and the boys to the Cottage, after a quick stop at the grocery store and butcher's shop so they could bring sandwich supplies along with ingredients for a hearty stew. The couples had decided to stay on the Collins's property for the day to discuss future plans when Lee returned from his business sessions downtown. Later in the afternoon, once the construction crew completed their work for the day, the Coulters would tour the main house and hear Allie play the piano.
Taking advantage of a surprisingly calm winter day, Jake Cook joined the construction team as they dismantled and sorted what remained of the stable after the fire. The more they cleared now, the sooner the work on the revised barn/garage/apartment could begin.
Glad to avoid watching from the window, Nathan was grateful for the distraction of Jack and Patrick while the ladies discussed dresses, wedding, and reception plans while seated around the dining table. After a taste of freedom to attend church the previous day, Nathan was ready to return to Depot!
Suddenly there was a knock on the door and Lee entered, his face engulfed in a wide smile. After Elizabeth ushered the boys into the kitchen to sculpt with Plasticine at the table, Lee took a seat before the fire to describe his morning.
"Mayor Matthews and the business leaders were immensely supportive, welcoming this new business venture to that which Regina already offers. Having done his research, the Mayor learned about the reputation of Coulter Lumber and how it has contributed to the town of Hope Valley, offering needed employment, a dedicated and loyal workforce, and supported the town in unacknowledged ways." Blushing slightly, Lee continued, "He confessed that, from informal calls with the Judge, Ned, Pastor Joseph and Hope Valley's own Mayor, Regina's Mayor was impressed with the glowing reports about me as well as the business. He escorted me to a newly vacated building around the corner from the main shopping street that he thought might be a good place from which to start and he even provided blueprints with measurements to peruse while I am in town, then allowed me to telephone Stan from a conference room in City Hall." Lee took a deep breath, "Stan agrees we'll give it a go and he'll catch the early train tomorrow to arrive late in the evening on Wednesday. We'll meet with the landlord to tour the building on Thursday and sign the lease if we agree! Stan will depart in time to be home by the weekend."
Rosemary, who had been holding her breath while Lee shared the news, let out an excited squeal. "It is really happening, Darling! I…" She stood and went to sit on her husband's lap and wrap him in a hug. "You are my wonderful man, Lee Coulter, and I love you to pieces." She gave him a kiss, slightly longer that the ones they usually shared on the streets of Hope Valley.
Blushing, she glanced at Elizabeth and Nathan, only to see them lost in each other's gaze and not even paying any mind to the Coulter's displays of affection. Rosemary looked into Lee's eyes and giggled excitedly.
"Well, you know what this means? We have work to do!" Rosemary stood and smoothed her skirt, "Elizabeth, may we have a pot of tea and some cookies while we spread out these blueprints on the dining table before our soup and sandwiches?"
While the stew simmered, filling the Cottage with deliciously tempting and savory odors, the two couples began lists and discussions of next steps as they poured over the specifications on loan from the Mayor.
. .
When Allie entered with her enthusiastic hello and warm hugs, the couples were prepared to share the news and had copious notes and lists to plan the next steps.
"There are only a few weeks until the wedding, but I am hopeful that we can make our move at that time, Allie-girl! Isn't this grand?" Uncle Lee asked as he hugged Allie again. "Just think…" His voice trailed off with his excitement…
"Oh Uncle Lee! Aunt Rosemary this is amazing! More of my favorite people are relocating to Regina?"
Enjoying tea, milk, and cookies, the Coulters brought Allie up to date on the plans and possibilities, "We'll know more when my brother-in-law arrives on Thursday, but I already think it is a sure thing!"
"We have to find a place to live and move, so the sooner we start a search the more likely we can move when we attend the wedding!"
Pensively, Elizabeth glanced at Nathan wishing she could speak to him in private. Knowing the chance was minimal she resigned herself to wait and hoped for a few moments if Allie could start their guests on the tour of the main house.
"Are you okay watching the boys while we go up to the main house, Nathan? They're engrossed in modeling with Plasticene in the kitchen." Elizabeth slid over to lean against his good arm, whispering. "I need to talk to you briefly as well…"
"Sure, we'll be fine. We can quietly read for a while and that will calm them before dinner."
"I'm going to let Allie take you up to the main house so she and Carol can begin your tour. I'll be along shortly." Elizabeth donned her coat, but escorted the Coulters and Allie out the door, then returned to Nathan.
"Honey, I…"
Nathan wasted no time before capturing Elizabeth's lips with a longing kiss. "Okay. Now you can talk," Nathan admitted laughing softly. "We have had too little privacy these past few days."
Grinning, Elizabeth agreed, "I've missed you and your sweet kisses, my Love. But what I want to ask you is what do you think of suggesting that the Coulters stay in rooms at the Hotel until after the wedding or my parents return to Hamilton? I don't know how soon that will be, but they could stay in my place or in their apartment. It would give them some time to figure out where they want to settle and allow my parent's place to remain occupied. I know David will be in the office section, but this might be helpful nonetheless. What do you think? Shall I suggest this to Father and Mother?"
"You are planning ahead just like a Mountie! I think it is a great idea, although I would inquire without delay so everyone will have time to organize." Nathan studied Elizabeth's face trying to read her expression, "What do you think of this move? Are you okay with it?"
"Yes and, maybe in a small way, no…"
"Aren't you happy to know that your relationship with Rosemary will continue without the challenges of distance?" Nathan queried softly.
As Elizabeth nodded her agreement, "Yes, it's just…"
Nathan had a sudden insight. "I know you've been looking forward to deepening your friendships with Jane and Johanna, and Ardis as well. Will Rosemary's presence change that dynamic?" He watched her closely.
"How do you already know my concerns, Nathan?" Elizabeth had tears in her eyes as she continued, "I've been looking forward to our lives here as being a fresh start in so many ways, but I feel guilty even entertaining a thought of keeping the new friendships my own. Is that wrong? To want to keep some friendships separate?"
"I'm not sure it is wrong, but you'll probably find that Rosemary will find her own friend group in addition to you. Since so much will be new for us when we are married, I think that we will be your priority," Nathan chuckled as he commented, "at least I hope so! Everyone will have to give you, and us, space to find our way together and together with others. Remember we will return to Sunday dinners with the Samuels and our game nights with the Blakes, so we won't always be with Lee and Rosemary. Plus, I think Rosie will find her place soon enough with her gregarious nature! I wouldn't worry, Honey. It will happen naturally, plus we'll get through this together. When you need to, let's keep talking about things, okay?" Nathan kissed her forehead, adding, "I do thank you for sharing about this now. We are becoming a couple, Honey, and I love it. I love you too."
"And I love you, Honey. I am grateful to have someone to talk to about my concerns. Thank you for listening and I know you'll pray for me and this new situation." Giving Nathan a quick kiss, Elizabeth stood. "They'll wonder where I am now, so I better get going. Be back soon!"
"Lizbeth?"
She looked back at him, her hand on the doorknob.
"You don't owe anyone any explanations you know." Nathan motioned to send her a kiss and wiggled his eyebrows.
As Elizabeth traversed the path towards the main house, she considered Nathan's words, thankful for his wisdom though couched in a flirty tease.
. .
Following voices, Elizabeth found the group being introduced to the Collins's studio apartment.
"Oh Elizabeth! Where have you been? Isn't this charming?" Rosemary enthused, "And the living and dining rooms are enormous! What a place for a dinner party, eh?"
Choosing to ignore the intrusive question, Elizabeth commented, "Dinner parties have been delightful! Carol has been a wonderful host and we've had every imaginable configuration for meals over the holidays. I only hope I can live up to everyone's expectations in the future. I have certainly learned a lot these past weeks, but with everyone helping I don't think it was ever a burden for anyone. Was it, Carol? You seemed to thrive with all the family and activity."
"Not a burden at all and, as you mentioned, we had many cooks, shoppers, and planners! Some of them will be returning for future events, so you'll be fine, Sweetheart. Now, shall we go peek at the bedroom wing?"
. .
"Allie? You are playing well for only a few months of lessons. You must be musically gifted!" Rosemary hugged Allie around the shoulders as they traversed the path, returning to the Cottage.
Drinking in the compliment from someone Allie knew was musically gifted herself, Allie spoke quietly, "Thank you. I think I take after my Dad."
"You do, Honey," Elizabeth nodded. "Do you have the musical program from your Concert? I imagine Aunt Rosemary and Uncle Lee would love to hear about that wonderful performance."
"Sure. Maybe we can sing some of the songs too. Should I run back and get my Book of Carols?"
"I'll go back with you, Allie," Lee offered. "You ladies go ahead before it gets dark."
After handing the keys to Allie, Carol continued to the Cottage with Elizabeth and Rosemary, grateful to be included in dinner this evening.
"I think you will truly be impressed, Rosemary," Carol explained. "That concert was incredible and it was hard to believe they were high school students!"
"You know, Rosemary, you might enjoy getting to know Rachel Bell, the choirmaster at church. She is Allie's music teacher and leader of the chorus. I'll let Allie tell you more, but that performance was impressive!" Elizabeth added, "Just ask my parents!"
.