Chapter Forty: Union City – Part II

"Well, I suppose it's not too fancy!" grumbled Bill.

"Uncle Bill, the food is delicious. You'll see!"

"Reminds me a little of your Café, Judge," smiled Tom.

"You don't say? Yes, I suppose, when you think about it, there is a resemblance!"

Bill perked up, puffed up with pride, looking around for himself to find the similarities.

"Nice save, Tom!" mouthed Nathan across the table.

Tom grinned and winked.

Cosette's daughter, Amelie, arrived to wait on the table of eight.

Her style was casual and friendly, which helped Bill to pretend he was at his own Café!

"Our first special today is Chicken Confit, which is salted and herbed Chicken cooked in Olive Oil, rendered till it's rich and tender. Really delicious. Our second special is Moules Marinieres, which is simply fresh Mussels cooked in an herbed White Wine Broth. And then we have our regular menu favorites, Steak Frites or Steak and Fries, and our golden standard, Salmon en Papillote with Vegetables, including Asparagus, Carrots, and Onions."

"Ma'am, what would you like?"

"I'll have a small Salad Nicoise and the Mussels, please."

"What? No Bouillibase, Love?" teased Nathan.

"I know, unfathomable, isn't it?" she grinned.

"And you, Miss?"

"I'll have the Salmon, please. I love to unwrap the paper!"

"I'll be sure to tell our Chef to leave that for the young lady to do!" she smiled at Allie. "But, be careful of the steam when you open it!"

Nathan motioned for her to take Bill's and the Agent's orders first.

"I'll have those Steak and Fries you mentioned. Can't go wrong with that!" ordered the Judge.

"I assure you, you won't be the least disappointed, Sir!"

"Sirs?"

"I'm with the Judge!" exclaimed Matt.

"I'll have the Chicken, please!" nodded Kyle.

"Steak for me!" smiled Lance.

"I'm joining Miss Allie. I'll have the Salmon, please!" declared Tom.

Allie was sitting next to him.

"You won't be sorry…" but when she got to his name, she didn't know what she should call him.

'Uncle Tom would just be so much easier than Mr. Baylor! How am I supposed to keep all these last names straight?' she mused in thought, hoping her thoughts would fill the universe and somehow coerce the four men to become instant uncles.

'Oh well, I guess I still have work to do!'

So, she flashed a smile that couldn't help but endear her to all four, who were watching her closely!

They couldn't help but admire this little girl's spunk, even though she was determined to interrogate them!

As her Dad and Momma, started conversing with her Uncle Bill, Allie saw this as the perfect opportunity to spout off her remaining questions.

Allie quickly reached for her notepad and pencil.

"Let's see where were we? Oh, have you ever shot anyone?"

They all raised their hands.

"You see, Miss Allie, we've all served in His Majesty's Regiments. So, the answer is yes, regrettably, we all have had to shoot someone many times."

"Well, I suppose that's good experience if you were good enough to serve the King. What's he like?"

The men stifled laughs and chuckles, although not too effectively!

"Wait, you said you were in his service! So you have to know him! Right?"

"Well, we never really got to meet him! You see, we were out in Battle, protecting his country for him."

"Well, I suppose if the King trusted you to save his country, you must be pretty good. But, it's still not being a Mountie! And that brings me to my next question…"

The men were waiting with bated breath…and a little bit of fear!

"Can you shoot with both hands at the same time?"

The four looked at each other perplexed, like, 'Can you believe we're being stumped by a twelve-year-old girl?'

Tom took the lead again, as the other three were about to lose it.

"Well, I can't recall ever facing the occasion where two guns were needed at the same time."

"This really is the wild west," laughed Lance.

"My Dad and Uncle Bill can. And Uncle Gabe, too. Of course, he's a Mountie too and my Uncle Bill was a Mountie, so he still counts! Yes, Sir, they can shoot both pistols at once and still hit their two targets, even if they're moving. I'm telling you, we're gonna have to work on this! Because I want my Momma really protected! Boy, we've got some work to do!"

And there was Allie's famous eyeroll, something the men would soon learn to expect!

"Allie, what are you doing?" asked her Dad, as he glanced up from his conversation with Bill and Millicent.

"I just asked two more of my questions, Dad. We've got some work to do on shooting two pistols at once. Uncle Bill, Dad's real busy with Momma and me, so can you help them with that?"

Bill chuckled with glee.

"Why, Pumpkin, I'd be happy to do that! Can't double shoot, eh?" and he grinned at the men; a grin that was more ominous and foreboding than helpful!

A grin that clearly asked them, 'what are you all, wimps?' without actually saying the words!

Yes, overall, quite the menacing tone, for as much as our Teddy Bear Judge had a heart of gold, he loved to put the fear in grown men more!

And as Allie had already done a bang-up job in that arena, it was now, much too easy to rattle these four poor newcomers!

"Okay, that's it, you two! You're going to run our entire Team off before they get started! It's not like that's something they'd have to do every day!"

"I've got a feelin, they're up for the challenge! I help fix your beds tonight, you learn to shoot double and ace it too! But I'd say it'll take a good two weeks before you even hold em right, much less aim and shoot em! We'll even make a little wager. Let's see, let's make it real sweet. You hit a moving target in those two weeks, I'll buy you dinner. You don't, you buy me dinner, all four of you!"

"You're on, Judge! My men are up to the challenge. Just wait and see!" declared Tom.

"Oh, we'll wait and see, alright!"

"Bill, why is it I'm torn as to who to discipline first, you or Allie?"

Bill grinned.

"What's that next question, Allie?" egged Bill.

"Have you ever done a rope obstacle course?"

"Yes, Miss, all four of us have! Now, I know what you're going to say next. And no, it wasn't a Mountie obstacle course, but it was a Royal one! And it was a tough one, too!"

"Well, I don't know. I'd have to see it to compare," insisted Allie, very unsure the King's obstacle course could possibly compare to the Mounties. "My next question is, have you ever been overtaken by a bad guy?"

Tom, Lance, Kyle, and Matt looked at each other, not sure how to answer.

"Well, of course in Training," remembered Tom. "But we've held our own out in the field!"

"You do carry guns, don't you, and knives too?" asked Allie.

"We carry guns, and two knives, each, Miss!"

"Okay, that will do. You always have to have a knife. That's wilderness 101 training. And I hate to tell you this, but you're in the wild!" explained Allie, with a most serious look on her face.

"Allie," warned her Dad. "It's not like this is the end of civilization!"

"I'm wrapping it up, Dad. I'll get the others later. Except for this one, because it's really, really important. The way I see it, is if we're gonna be together all the time, that makes us family, and I think you should be my Uncles, so I can just call you Uncle Tom, and Uncle Lance, and Uncle Matt, and Uncle Kyle. That's a whole lot more family like than Mr. Baylor, Logan, Hanson, and Emory! What do you think?"

The four men pretended to be very serious and looked at each other studiously.

"I don't know. I've never had a niece before," mused Kyle.

"I don't even know if I'd be a good Uncle!" doubted Matt.

"What would we have to do, anyway?" asked Lance. "I mean this sounds like a lot of work to me!"

"Good grief, it's not a lot of work! It just makes us family, which makes everything a lot easier, doesn't it Uncle Bill?"

"Oh, most definitely easier! And quite frankly, the only way to go Gentlemen! I've got a little bit of advice for you. This Gal's not givin up! So, the way I see it, you can agree now and start the process, or you can let her convince you by wearin you down over the, let's say next six months or so. But, now it's your choice! I know what I did! And it was Day One for me! Been her Uncle ever since and now, wouldn't take anything for her!"

The men all looked very seriously at each other, then broke out into four huge smiles.

"Miss Allie, you've got yourself four new Uncles!" declared Tom.

"Yes!" and Allie got up to hug each new Uncle.

"But Uncle Tom, you can just call me Allie, now that we're family!"

"Hey, that doesn't mean we have to buy gifts, does it?" teased Matt.

"Uncle Matt, of course, you buy gifts for family! The rule is Christmas and Birthdays and whenever you feel like it in between!"

"Whew! Glad you set me straight on that one! I would have come to Christmas empty-handed!"

"What's this 'in between stuff,'" asked Lance, thoroughly perplexed.

And Allie decided to take full advantage.

"Uncle Lance, it's like if you're sick, or if you're down and you need cheering up. Or if you just need an ice cream! That's what families do! They help each other."

"Well, Miss, I mean Allie, you might have to coach me, because I didn't have a real family growing up," explained Kyle.

"You didn't?"

"No, my Great Aunt took me in when my parents were murdered, and she was good to me, but she wasn't warm and fuzzy. So, you can't really say we were family."

"That's awful. I'm really, really sorry your parents got killed. But, we'll make up for your Great Aunt not being family, Uncle Kyle, because now you have a real family. You have us!" and Allie moved to hug her new Uncle Kyle.

Millicent was watching, and she was shocked.

Now that they were in Hope Valley, she would have to do more to make sure the men were included in things.

She had never known this about Kyle, and it explained an awful lot. His aloofness for one thing. And also, that underlying sadness she had always sensed.

Who knew a twelve-year-old girl would discover his pain, and feel a need in his life just as much as he was filling a need in their lives!

Millicent squeezed Nathan's hand, and instead of chastising Allie further, he smiled back, very proud of his daughter, indeed.


"I hate to leave you all, but I've got to run to make my appointment, and no one keeps the Commissioner waiting. Allie, Sweetheart, wish me luck!"

"Good luck, Dad, but you won't need it. You're the very best!" and Allie reached up to hug and kiss her Dad.

Millicent got up, "Here, I'll walk you out!"

Nathan glanced at Bill to follow, knowing Allie would be fine with her four new Uncles.

As the trio walked just outside the restaurant entrance, with Nathan holding Millicent's hand, Nathan suddenly realized how very much he hated to leave her.

"I know your meeting is going to go wonderfully, Darling! And don't worry about us. We've got the whole afternoon to spend on Allie with lots of Girl fun!"

"Thank you, Love!"

"Whatever for?"

"For making everything wonderful, Miss Bradford. Every little thing! For Allie and for me!"

He wrapped her in his arms, and whispered into her ear.

"I love you, so very much, Darling!"

She couldn't respond back, but her sparkling eyes clearly said the words!

And with a kiss to her forehead, he called to Bill.

"Take good care of my Girls, Bill!"

"You've got it, Nathan!"


"Bill, do you mind running an errand with me, to that Pharmacy across the street?"

"Sure, not a problem!"

As Nathan pulled out in his rented car, Millicent and Bill waved and then crossed the street.

Inside the busy Pharmacy, Bill tried to be discreet but was determined to not let Millicent out of his sight.

Which in turn made it a bit difficult for Millicent as she needed privacy, so instead of gathering the most private items herself, she went to the Pharmacist, instead, scribbling a list and handing it to him to read.

"Could you please have someone gather these and place them in a bag for me, as I have a gentleman friend with me?"

The Pharmacist glanced at the list and immediately understood, happy to help prevent what could have been a most awkward situation.

Millicent also picked up a bottle of aspirin.

She wasn't positive, but she was fairly certain.

Her daughter looked paler than usual, and she had a bloated look about her.

That was what was different, that Millicent couldn't put her finger on. She had suspected it this morning as they left the rowhouse, but she was now convinced at the lunch table.

Something just seemed off with Allie, although she was hyper-focused on securing her Uncles.

Well, Millicent preferred to be prepared, if she was right, Allie would have everything she needed. If she was wrong, it could all be used later. She only hoped the child would get to enjoy the shopping portion of her special day!

And she also hoped that Allie was at least somewhat prepared for what she felt was about to come.


Allie had tried on dress after dress.

"This one is too much like Emily's dress!"

"This one is too long!"

"This one is too short!"

"I don't think this color is right!"

"Momma, I love this one!"

"It's beautiful Allie, and I think it's very different from what most of the girls will be wearing. My only concern is, will it be warm enough for Christmas weather?"

"Yes, Miss Bradford, it has a cashmere lining for warmth, and the roses are called winter roses," explained the Sales Assistant.

"Ah, I see. What do you think, Allie? Is this one really your favorite?"

Allie's eyes were shining.

"I think it's perfect, Momma!"

"Do you have any low heels that might go well with this?" asked Millicent.

"Yes, Miss, we do! In fact, they were made to go perfectly with the dress, in the same silk and embroidery. But we also have a nice lambskin leather pair that go beautifully as well."

For the next twenty minutes, Allie tried on shoes.

"Momma, is it okay if I try on the higher ones?"

Millicent held her breath, hoping Allie wouldn't like them.

And thankfully, she didn't!

"These are hard to walk in, Momma! I like the lower ones better!"

Millicent breathed a sigh of relief.

Crisis averted!

"They look better, too, Sweetheart! Which pair do you think goes best with your dress?"

"I think if we get the lambskin ones, they'll go with so much more."

"I agree, and I honestly think they look better! We'll take these along with the dress. But do you have a cape or coat that will go well with the dress? I think we need something a bit more festive than your everyday coat, Allie. Something, you can also wear to Church each Sunday."

"Oh, Momma, I would love to have a cape! They're so glamorous and grown-up!"

But the capes were much too fancy, not at all appropriate for Sundays, so they decided to look for coats instead.

Millicent found a red one trimmed in velvet that was stunning, with little red bows.

"What do you think, Allie? Is it too frou-frou?"

"Let me see…" and she tried it on.

"It feels wonderful, Momma! I don't think it's too girly!"

"No, I don't think so either. It's perfect on – a perfect fit and a perfect look! Is this the one, Allie?"

"Yes, please, and Momma, it matches the red dress you and Dad got me for Christmas!"

"It does, doesn't it? I think we have a winner. And it's absolutely beautiful for Sundays too!"

Allie ran up to Millicent and gave her a kiss.

"What's that for, Angel?"

"I've never had so much fun! Thank you, Momma! Can we do this all the time?"

"Absolutely, whenever you need something! I've had so much fun, too, Allie. And your Father is going to love what you've chosen! Are you okay for underwear?"

Allie looked down to the floor.

"What is it, Allie?"

"The other girls wear bras, but I don't have one."

"Do you feel you need one, Sweetheart? Turn around…yes, you do! Let's go look."

After looking through several, they finally decided on a plain every day one and a fancier one that would look pretty with Allie's dressier dresses. Millicent remembered to get pantaloons to match, and before long her daughter was fully outfitted with everything she needed.

"Momma, this makes me feel special. I've never had pretty underwear before."

"Oh, Allie, I'm afraid your Father and I have been thinking basics all these years, but a girl your age needs some pretty, too!" she smiled.

She had bought all these things for Allie when she was younger, but this was so different, with them shopping together, especially now that she was becoming a young lady.

Not to mention they were now Mother and Daughter!

Both were elated and amazed at how much fun and successful their shopping had been!

Their first Mother-Daughter Outing alone together, but of course with Bill and Security, had been a rousing success...


"Sir, Constable Grant has arrived."

"Send him in Matthew!"

The Commissioner stood, and as Nathan entered his office, he saluted.

Commissioner Anderson saluted back.

His surname described him perfectly – manly and brave, as he personified both.

He was a true leader, and was highly respected by his men, if for no other reason than that he led by example, never afraid to get out there to work alongside them.

"At ease, Constable Grant!" ordered the Commissioner in a loud booming voice, and then Commissioner Anderson did something Nathan had never seen him do before.

Instead of sitting behind his desk, he walked to Nathan and shook his hand.

"I'm really glad to see you, Nathan, and since we've dispensed with the formalities, I'd like us to catch up and then get down to business.

"How is Mrs. Anderson, Sir?"

"She's doing very well! Thank you! She still talks about you dancing with her at the Mountie Ball. She really appreciated it, and frankly, Son, I did too! As Commissioner, my time isn't my own at those events, and unfortunately, it's often the person we love the most that ends up feeling left out! But, thankfully you saw that she got to do the one thing she loves most. Somehow, this year, I have to make up for my absence last year. I've decided I'm going to bite the bullet and do an opening dance with her. And as you know, I'm not the best dancer in the world. Not at all in your league. But after that first dance, all bets are off. I'm sure I'll be pulled in a dozen different directions, as usual! You are coming, aren't you, as a solid backup, just in case?"

Nathan wasn't sure how much to say.

"I enjoyed dancing with Mrs. Anderson very much. She's a lovely dancer. As for the Ball this year, I'm planning to eave for Montreal on the 15th of December, Sir. But if it's before that, I'll be happy to attend and dance with Mrs. Anderson."

"Ah, Montreal. Mrs. Anderson and I understand Congratulations are in order! And if I might add, your fiancée is a gorgeous young lady. Caroline was thrilled when she saw your Engagement Announcement. 'Winston, they make the most stunning couple!' were her exact words!

"Thank you, Sir! But about that. There was supposed to be only one photo in the paper, not the plethora that ended up being published!"

"We surmised as much! You know, Son, Edward Bradford is one of our top, if not the top, contributors to the Mounties. Has been for years, and for that, we are most grateful. He's a most admirable man."

"Yes, Sir. He is! I'm very fortunate to have him as a Father-in-law. He's a very good man! As good as they come. We've actually known each other since I was ten years old."

"You don't say! I did not know that! You never said a word."

"No reason to, Sir!"

The Commissioner smiled.

"No, I don't suppose there was. How are you doing, marrying into such a well-known family?"

"I've loved them for most of my life, so it's not as though this is all new to me. I think, like the Bradfords, we would much rather have our privacy, although that doesn't seem possible. I love Millicent, Sir, with my whole being. I will adjust to everything that comes with that."

"Spoken like a true Mountie!" laughed the Commissioner.

He had been leaning on his desk, but he got up to return to his huge leather seat behind it, wondering how best to proceed.

"Nathan, I suppose you're wondering why I've invited you here today. And I warn you it's a lot! So, let's get right to it. I have a promotion…"

"Sir, I'm sorry, I can't accept a promotion that's offered because of my marriage."

"Of course not! That's why you're a great Mountie, Son! This has nothing to do with your marriage, although we might have to rethink certain aspects, because of it."

"Nathan, the development of this position, expressly for you, was begun two and a half years ago, when you turned down the Inspector's position here in Union City. I didn't understand why at the time, but then Caroline realized you did it for Allie, to give her a stable home. And that's highly commendable, Son. But from our perspective, I for one, know we aren't using you to your maximum potential. That's what this position will change. It will also fill a void, we've had in our Inspector's Division for as long as I've been here, if not before! The change I'm talking about will benefit all of us. And just so you know, the position was also completed three months ago; it's taken us that long to get the funding."

"I'm sorry to assume, Sir. It's just that money seems to talk, and I don't want my career to be impacted by that."

"Totally understood! And it won't be, not as long as I'm in charge. I hope this position is going to be so intriguing to you, you can't possibly say no. And ironically, I do think it will fit much better after your marriage. You'll see what I mean."

"I'm most interested to hear your offer, Sir!"

"I want you to oversee our Inspectors Division. I want you to direct it, and I want you to work with our most difficult cases, overseeing them. The entire Team of Inspectors will eventually report to you, or at least I'm hoping you will be agreeable to that. But first, I want you to play catch up with our outstanding cases; I want them resolved, so that we can move on to revamping the whole Division with you as a Lead. Eventually, I want you to write a curriculum and oversee a sub-division of training for our Officers, both old and new! I know you have experience in that, as you were our best Field Trainer. The men respect you Nathan, and they respond to you."

"What would my position be, Sir?"

"Chief Inspector. It will start out at the level of a Superintendent, but between us, we expect it to rise above that, just under me, as you will have a much greater widespread responsibility than our Superintendents."

"I don't know what to say, Sir."

"Just say, yes! I'm grooming you, Son, to work with me. And I know our locations vary, but with modern-day conveniences, we should be able to work together quite easily from wherever we are. I see great potential in you. Always have. And quite frankly, although I've never said this to anyone, I see you taking my role when I retire."

"Sir…"

"You don't have to say it, Nathan. I mean it when I say I'm grooming you, and between us, that's ultimately what I'm grooming you for. I would be remiss, to not be frank. I don't beat around the bush, and neither do you. Now, I have no plans of early retirement, so thankfully, we have plenty of time for you to work your way up, and to fix this mess of an Inspectors' Division. But I do want us to spend our time wisely, and for the good of the Organization, that means grooming you ultimately for my position."

"Commissioner, I'm most deeply honored. You can't possibly know how honored, but I've never even imagined anything beyond being an Inspector."

"Well, if you'll accept the position, and I'm praying that you will, you are now Chief Inspector of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police!"

"How can I not accept the position, Sir!"

"Maintiens le Droit!" and the Commissioner got up and embraced Nathan, then stood back and saluted.

"Maintiens le Droit!" saluted Nathan.

It was the Mountie Motto advocated in 1873 and adopted two years later.

It meant "Uphold the Right," something to which every Mountie swore to do.

"The other will come gradually, Nathan. Just as it did with me. I know it's a long way off, as you have to grow into a position like this. But, I also know you have the potential to do that. And don't think I'm jumping the gun, either. Our previous Commissioner took me under his wing as a young Constable at exactly the same age as you! It's an extraordinary journey if you'll just agree to take it with me."

"Sir, I can't even imagine myself in a position such as yours."

Nathan couldn't even say the words 'as Commissioner.'

"That's one of the many reasons, Son, you'll make a great Commissioner someday! I don't make decisions lightly, and I know I'm right on this one."

"Your confidence humbles me, Sir. I am deeply honored that you see that kind of potential in me."

"You know, Nathan, I've never had a Son, but if I did, I'd want him to be just like you. Out of all my men, you come the closest to that for me, and I'm deeply grateful. You won't regret this, and the Mounties are humbled that you're willing to take all this on. Your pay will start out at the Superintendents' Level, but will quickly go up from there, as the new responsibilities are added."

"I appreciate that, Sir, and I greatly appreciate your faith in me, more than you can possibly know. That you would even consider mentoring me, as well, is beyond my comprehension. I am so deeply honored, Sir! But I do want to speak with Millicent about all this. I also need to let you know, Millicent and I are planning to work the school year in Hope Valley, at least until Allie graduates, or as long as she wants to stay there. But we also plan to spend summers in Montreal if all this is agreeable of course, to you."

"Agreeable? I can't tell you how wonderful that news is! No better place for you to really maximize this position than in Montreal! I'll see that you have new offices in both Hope Valley and Montreal. After the caseload is caught up, we can reconvene to determine what staffing you need on a regular basis. Now, you will have an Assistant of your choosing, who will work with only you, side by side like Matthew does with me, and I'd like the person to be chosen as quickly as possible. I would suggest you choose from a list, I'll give you, as they are already trained in administrative procedures. I'll go through and rank them as to abilities, noting their strengths."

"But how do I cover so many cases across the country, Sir?"

"Oh, you'll have an additional Team of Inspectors at your disposal on an as-needed basis for case review. I want that as a number one priority, so I'd appreciate you prioritizing it as such!"

"Yes, Sir! But what will happen to my Hope Valley Post, Sir?"

"For the interim, I'm bringing your buddy, Gabriel Winslow, in to help with the transition. Then when we do a final placement, a few months or so down the road, he will be able to adequately train the new person."

"You may not like it, but you'll have a new uniform, befitting our new Chief Inspector. In fact, they are ready for you to take with you, or if you prefer, we can ship them to you."

"I can take them, Sir. I rented a car for the day, and we'll be returning by Train, so it won't be a problem."

"If you don't mind, Nathan, I want us to reconvene around the conference table, to chat back and forth on particulars."

Commissioner Anderson called his Assistant, Matthew, who brought in a tray of Coffee and Fruit and took it to the table.

As the two men set down, Matthew poured their coffee and nodded politely before he exited the Office.

"Nathan, I want us to just chat. I know I've thrown a lot at you. What are you feeling?"

"Shocked, amazed, excited, intrigued, and more. My dream has always been to be an Inspector, but this…this is just beyond what I could have ever imagined!"

"Do you have anything going on now in Hope Valley that will warrant your attention moving forward?"

"Yes, Sir. There's one case that I've been working on since the first day I arrived in Hope Valley, and the pieces are now all coming together. It's a case with country-wide impact, as it involves some very well-known hardened criminal clans as part of the chain. If you are willing, I would like to see it through."

"I'll allow that, especially as it will obviously have a huge impact. Let's discuss the details after we've made an outline of concerns."

And the Commissioner quickly jotted down what was already on Nathan's list to discuss with him.

"There is also a possible conflict of interest, Sir, that I need to be open about."

"Yes, what's that, Son?"

"Millicent nor her siblings know, but I'm sure you're aware that the Bradfords' firstborn Son was kidnapped as a baby. The two kidnappers get out of prison in mid-January, coming. I don't feel it was ever resolved. And I was hoping I could look back into it."

"Nathan, that's not a conflict of interest. That's a common interest. To give back and potentially resolve something so horrid for our top benefactor would be a marvelous thing for us to be able to do. Proceed with the case as a top priority among your case workload! I'll see that you get all the files."

"Speaking of benefactor, I would like to also mention this. Millicent and I feel very strongly that each member of our family should give back via a Charity that is close to their heart. She already does that in leaps and bounds, working with underprivileged children. I want very badly to do this also, but I don't want our name ever mentioned."

"That's an admirable request, and I'll see that it's honored. Please continue…"

"I want to set up a Charity for widows and families who have lost their Mountie, either job-related or by natural death, and I want to see that their needs are taken care of for the remainder of their lives or until they remarry."

"I don't know what to say…I truly don't. To have that resource thrills my very soul! You don't know how I labor over these poor women and children who are left not only missing the one they loved but are often left destitute because of no longer having an income! I will whole heartedly approve any Charity you wish to establish and I will honor your wish for it to be anonymous if that is what you prefer."

"I do, Sir. We plan to establish the Foundation as soon as possible after our Wedding."

"You will also be honoring your Mountie Brothers, Son, in a way that none of us can do. I can't tell you how thrilled I am about this!"

"It's just the right thing to do, Sir. Another item on my list may seem trivial, but believe me, it is not to the former Mountie who was impacted. Are you aware Judge Avery was requested to return his Serge, Sir?"

"He what?" asked the Commissioner incredulously.

"He had to travel to return it in person, Sir, to the office here in Union City. It was hurtful to him, Sir. And neither of us had ever heard of that being done before."

The Commissioner was steaming as he quickly picked up the phone and gave his order.

"Matthew, find me Judge Bill Avery's Serge now and get it to me as quickly as possible. Apparently, the Union City Office demanded he travel in-person to return it, and that is the most absurd thing I have ever heard. Locate it and interrupt me as soon as you have it! And get the names of the people who did it and by what authorization they did it! Now! Right now! I want it in my Office on my desk as quickly as possible!"


As the new Royal Canadian Mounted Police Chief Inspector, drove through Union City, he couldn't help but offer a heartfelt prayer.

"Dear God, this was You working things out that I didn't even know I desired or career-wise needed. You've bestowed on me your most bountiful blessings. I cannot thank You enough. If Millicent is agreeable, please help me fill this position, these positions within the Inspectors' Division, to the very best of my ability. Lead me to where you want me to be in the future, and I will humbly follow. In your precious name, I most gratefully ask, Amen!"

Nathan's entourage had agreed to meet at Jake's, the best Steakhouse in Union City, without a fancy smidge in its entire restaurant!

Nathan was buying everyone Prime Rib to celebrate Allie, their car, and now, his new job.

But there was something else, too!

And that's what excited him most.

He couldn't wait…


As Nathan slowly pulled up to Jake's Restaurant, he was filled with excitement!

There, stood Millicent, Allie, Bill, and the Security Team, all standing outside waiting to greet him.

Millicent immediately ran to him, and he lifted her up, and swung her round and round right there in the middle of the busy boulevard, for everyone to see!

And then he did the thing he had wanted to do from the moment he had awoken this morning.

He kissed her so beautifully, and so passionately, that she knew before she saw his face, his news was wonderful.

But somehow, she had known it anyway.

She had prayed for the last two and a half years that Nathan's career be compensated for his sacrifice of giving up the Inspector's position he wanted so badly!

Deep inside, she had known it was just a matter of time!

Everyone, strangers included, started clapping and laughing!

How could you not feel good to watch such a beautiful couple in love?

Nathan grinned and wrapped his arm around Millicent, and reached back into his car for a box.

Then his entourage entered the restaurant and was seated at their reserved table in the back for privacy.

"Dad, we're dying to know your news! What did the Commissioner say?"

"Lots, Allie, all good! But before we get to that, let's get our orders in. Ladies," and he turned to wink at his Girls, "and Gentlemen, do you trust me to order for you?"

It was unanimous, and when the waiter came, Nathan ordered most quickly, as he wanted to get to something else that was really important to him.

"Prime Rib with all the trimmings for everyone!"

"Yes, Sir! You can't beat that!" smiled the waiter.

"A lot of wonderful things have happened today, but perhaps none more important than this, because a wrong has been made right! Bill, I believe this belongs to you!"

Bill was speechless, having thought the box contained Nathan's new uniform for whatever promotion he had undoubtedly received.

As Bill reached for the box, Nathan noticed his hands were shaking, and when he opened the box, he gasped.

Nathan stood and saluted him, and Bill stood to return the salute.

"Maintiens le Droit!" stated Nathan, clearly and loudly.

"Maintiens le Droit!" stated Bill through tears.

As he pulled the Serge up from the box, they all started clapping, till the whole restaurant was joining in!

Nathan helped the Judge out of his suit jacket, and held his Serge, as he helped him into it.

But Bill still couldn't talk.

For once in his life, not a single word would come out.

He was absolutely speechless.

But Nathan knew, and he just clapped him on the back, then Bill drew him into an embrace of thank you.

Bill sat down and wiped his own tears away.

For the very first time since his Serge had been taken, he felt whole again. He was an Inspector with the Mounties again, even though retired. And it meant everything to him.

That Nathan, his Son, was the one to make this happen, meant even more.

No, it wasn't just a Serge, it was Inspector Bill Avery's identity that he had carried for a large portion of his life.

It was what he passionately did.

He had been extremely good at it, and, truth be known, still was.

This was a part of him that had gone missing along with the returned Serge.

But now, he was whole again.

Millicent reached to kiss his cheek, as Allie got up to hug and kiss her Uncle.

It wasn't long till each of Allie's new Uncles also stood up and individually came to shake the Judge's hand, for although they didn't know the full story, even as newcomers, they recognized the poignancy of this most special moment and they wanted to be a part of it too.

Funny, how Hope Valley, always has a way of drawing people, new and old, together like that…


Nathan had to make a quick side-trip back to Cosette's, as Allie had forgotten to get her box of Macarons to take home.

"Can you give me four large boxes of every kind of Macaron in each box, please? And I'm so sorry, I have a Train to catch in just a few minutes!"

"No problem, Sir, the two of us will box them up right now!"

The two waiters completed their job in record time, and with a smile.

"They're on the house, Sir! Thank you for your Service, and Enjoy!"

"Thank you so very much! Lunch was wonderful! And we'll be back!" he called as he ran from the bakery counter to the front entrance of the French restaurant!


Allie and all her four new Uncles, including, Bill, had already boarded their Train, which was preparing to begin their journey, leaving Nathan and Millicent alone together for just a few moments, outside.

"Excuse me, Sir! I'm Chief Inspector Grant, and I just need to double-check that my car, furniture, and uniforms have been loaded, and will be unloaded upon our arrival in Hope Valley."

"Yes, Sir! I just oversaw the loading myself. Everything is on board, and in perfect condition. And I will also be the one to oversee the unloading in Hope Valley. I've already notified our Transport Truck to pick up the furniture and uniforms and deliver them to your home. I'm assuming you will be driving the vehicle. So, no worries! Our pleasure, Sir!"

"Perfect, thank you," and Nathan tipped the Porter with a smile.

It had been a most productive day, in many, many ways, and not the least of which was their bonding with their Security Team.

Everything, against all odds, was miraculously falling into place!

"Congratulations, Chief Inspector!" cooed Millicent, with her sparkling emerald eyes.

He chuckled and drew her close.

"Can't pull anything over on you, now can I?"

"Nathan Grant, you did that on purpose! And all I know is that that title sounds extremely impressive and important. I am absolutely thrilled for you whatever your promotion is, as long as you are happy, my Darling!"

She pressed her lips against his, drawing him closer, so full of love and pride for this man who had given his whole life, and thankfully, was now rightfully receiving!

It filled her heart and her being with pure love for Nathan and gratitude to God for answered prayers.

"Thank You, God!" she said as she lifted her radiant smile to the skies.

"I had to tell you first! And by the way, I don't think you've ever looked more beautiful!"

She smiled her gratitude for his thoughtfulness, that he would tell her first meant the world to her.

"It's just the moonlight, Love! That golden glow does such magic!" she laughed.

"Oh, it's a lot more than that, my Darling. It's totally you!"

She looped her arm in his and laid her head on his shoulder, as they walked toward the Train's Platform, ready to board.

He would tell her the details in his own time, with privacy, and she would be patient, although she was practically dying to know!


As they walked to their seats in the back of the train, Millicent noticed Allie seemed exceptionally tired, and she seemed to her, to be even paler than she had been this morning.

When they reached Allie, Nathan helped Millicent off with her coat, and Millicent looked up at him.

"Darling, I think I'll sit with Allie," she whispered, taking off her hat, and handing it to Nathan.

And then Nathan saw why.

Allie was pale as a ghost!

Millicent sat down by her, and pulled Allie close, feeling her forehead, as Nathan laid Millicent's hat overhead.

She shook her head 'No fever' to both Nathan and Bill, who both breathed a sigh of relief and relaxed.

Her new Uncles had noticed, too, and glanced over for confirmation.

Millicent mouthed 'No fever,' and they also breathed a collective sigh of relief, for they were already attached to this little munchkin, as they called her, and they too had noticed she didn't look like she felt well.

Allie sunk into Millicent and laid her body against her Momma, as Millicent caressed her hair.

She had gotten up early to French Braid Allie's hair just like she used to wear her own at that same age, and she had tied a purple silk ribbon at the end, to match Allie's purple coat and plaid dress, all in wool.

Despite their hectic day, the braid had stayed flawlessly, and Allie had liked it so much, Millicent realized she was going to have to teach Nathan how to do it till she was back with them again.

This time for good.

And coming home for good, was something she couldn't wait for...


When the Conductor came around to offer refreshments, Millicent ordered some Chamomile tea for Allie and asked for a glass of water.

Nathan distributed the boxes of Macarons, carefully leaving Allie's at the end of the table untouched.

"Baby Girl, can you eat one of our Macarons? We'll save your box for home."

She shook her head no, which told Nathan his daughter was really sick.

Allie never turned down a Macaron.

Not ever.

They traveled on with Millicent holding Allie in her left arm.

"Darling, I think Allie and I will have to go straight home. Do you have some paper and a pen, so I can draw out where everything will go next door?"

"Of course, Love!"

Millicent never once let go of Allie, and used her free right hand to sketch out the rooms, along with the placement of the new furniture they had just bought!

"This looks perfect, Mil! We'll set it up just like this."

"I think you two are gonna have to redo your own rowhouse if you ask me!" suggested Bill.

Millicent laughed.

"But I love it just as it is, Bill. It says Nathan and Allie to me. And I love that!"

"Yes, but it has to say Nathan, Millicent, and Allie after this big Wedding!" he winked.

"I agree. I actually think we may still have to think about a house," reminded Nathan.

"I agree, too," nodded Bill. "And I've got your Land just waiting for you. Told you I'd save it!"

"That's so lovely of you, Bill," whispered Millicent.

"I know you three won't be with us full-time. I don't see how you can be. Millicent has a full life in Montreal, that she'll have to tend to at some point. But, for the time we have you with us, we want you comfortable, and as at home as you can be!"

Nathan squeezed Bill's shoulders.

How could he possibly know?

They hadn't said a word to anyone in Hope Valley about their plans.

Not even Allie, yet.

"I totally agree with you, Bill. I want to build Millicent a house. But she doesn't want me to have to spend the time away working on it."

"Pshaw, we men join in and help. Won't take us any time at all to build a big beautiful house! One where I'll have a real bedroom when I come to stay," laughed Bill.

"Hold on, you just got a brand-new Hide-Away-Bed tonight, and haven't even tried it out yet, and now you're wanting a bedroom?" teased Nathan.


Eventually, the men, on both sides of the aisle, grabbed pillows and napped, as they all knew they had heavy work to do on their arrival!

Millicent stayed awake soothing Allie.

"Momma, my tummy hurts really bad."

"Allie, is the pain constant, or does it come and go?"

"It comes and goes, but it really hurts!"

"I know, Angel, but this will pass. I'm hoping you'll feel better tomorrow."

"Momma, will I be alright?"

"You absolutely will be alright," and then she lowered her voice so only Allie could hear.

"Allie, have you girls ever talked about cramping each month?"

"Anna told us all about it. But only Emily has actually done it, and that was just once. But it didn't sound like she hurt this bad."

"Every girl is different, Angel. I'm going to tuck you into bed as soon as we get home. But Allie, right now, I want you to take a couple of aspirin, okay?"

Millicent reached into her pocket where she had put the bottle of aspirin for safekeeping.

She removed her arm from Allie just long enough to open the bottle and pour a fresh glass of water.

"Here, Angel, take this and you'll feel better."

Allie took the sip of water to swallow the two tablets, but it was a small sip.

"One more sip," urged Millicent.

"But Momma, I don't have any…any…"

"Yes, you do. I got everything you need today at the Pharmacy in Union City. Do you think we better go to the Ladies' Room and check?"

Allie nodded.

It wasn't the perfect place to have this happen, but at least Allie had gotten to enjoy her day, for the most part, not giving into her sickness till she sat down and relaxed on the Train.

Millicent was totally right in her assumption.

By the time she had carefully explained everything, and helped Allie into the satin belt, along with its attached Listers, Allie was feeling less frightened.

"I'm going to be right here with you, Allie. We're going to go through this together, Angel, and I promise, everything is going to be all right."

"But Anna says she's a witch when it happens to her. And I don't want to be a witch!"

"Sweetheart, you could never be a witch! But Anna's right in that there are all kinds of hormones at play, and you might not feel like yourself for a few days. But it all comes and goes, and everything works out in the end. And as it happens each month, you become more adjusted to it, and learn how to make yourself feel better."

"What do you do, Momma, to feel better, I mean?"

"You know what I do? I curl up with a hot water bottle, a cup of chamomile tea (the only time I don't drink cinnamon) and a good book to take my mind off of it!"

"Does it work?"

"Pretty much! You'll find out for yourself tomorrow, as you still haven't opened your books! And they're good ones, too!"

"Momma, does that mean if you drink Chamomile tea, you're…?"

"That's exactly what that means, but it's our little secret!"

Allie crooked her little finger and linked it with Millicent's.

"That's a pinky-swear, Momma!"

"I know, and that means it's just our little secret alone!"

Allie smiled for the first time since they had boarded the Train.

It was a weak smile, but a smile nonetheless.

"I love you, Momma!"

"Oh, I love you, too, Baby Girl!"

Millicent wrapped everything else back up and placed it all back in the Pharmacy Bag.

Then the two walked arm-in-arm back to their seat, where all the men were still napping away.

"Momma, I wouldn't have known what to do…"

"No girl ever does, really, until it happens to them, Angel, but you're handling it beautifully."

Allie laid back against her.

"That's what Mommas are for Sweetheart, because they've been through it all before. You know, Allie, it just means you're growing up. I only have one favor to ask. For both me and your Father. Don't grow up too fast, please?"

"I won't Momma. I promise I won't!"

Allie laid her head on her Momma's shoulder completely contented, knowing that whatever else happened, she was loved and she was going to be okay.

Her Momma would see to it…