Chapter 47: A Most Jumbled Monday

"Florence, are you familiar with the McCaliffe Family's clothing sizes?" asked Millicent, hopefully.

"I'm so sorry. I have no idea. Nancy, Mrs. McCaliffe, makes most of their clothes, and I know she makes them mostly by hand because her old sewing machine is on the blitz more than it works! Truthfully, I know they're going through a hard time as Chad, Mr. McCaliffe, has been sick off and on, even more than usual."

"Jake and Maddie haven't said anything about their Dad being sick. What's wrong with him, Mrs. Yost?" asked Allie, curiously.

"He needs surgery for his ulcer, Dear, but they just can't afford it. They do that sort of thing in Union City on a regular basis, now, at the hospital there," explained Florence. "But I understand it's quite pricey!"

"Thank you for that information, Florence. That's good to know!"

"But I thought Mr. Yost had that surgery here," remembered Allie.

"Yes, Dear, he did, but it was an emergency, and he had two physicians, one being Dr. Carson, a trained surgeon, that operated on him. Dr. Carter just assisted. She isn't trained to do that type of surgery by herself."

"I'm so sorry you and Ned had to go through that, Florence."

"Thank you, Millicent. It was rough going for a while, but it also brought us together! So, I can't complain too much," smiled Florence. "Thank the Good Lord up above, we've made it through! And Ned's truly back to his old self again! Now, as for sizes, what are you thinking?"

"I think Mrs. McCaliffe is probably about a size eight. What do you think?" asked Millicent.

"Yes, and Jake must be about a twelve and Maddie a ten in children's sizes. Those would be my best guesses…"

"Good, and let's select something nice and practical for Mr. McCaliffe to wear, too," suggested Millicent.

"Now, Chad's just a size or so larger than Ned. And we have just the perfect winter outfit for him, jacket and all!"

"Oh, and nice warm sweaters for all of them," added Millicent. "Do you have any winter coats? I noticed theirs didn't look all that warm."

"Let me see…yes, our coat section is right over there in the corner. Do you want matching hats, scarfs, and gloves as well?"

"Yes, please, Florence!"

"Momma, I can pick those out. I know Maddie's favorite color is red, but Jake likes blue," suggested Allie.

"That's great, Allie. Then red things for Maddie and blue things for Jake, it is! So glad you remembered that. And yes, you may choose all the accessories, Sweetheart! Florence, do you know what Mrs. McCaliffe's favorite color is?"

"Nancy loves purple, and we have a gorgeous purple dress in her size. And I think an embroidered sweater that will match! Let me go check through the coats more closely."

While Allie chose the accessories, the two Ladies happily selected the best clothing, including the coats and sweaters, all things they thought the McCaliffe's would both look good in and enjoy.

Then Millicent's eyes went to what appeared to be a very fancy sewing machine.

"Oh, that's our very best. It's the latest model, too! Although, I'll admit, quite expensive! But it does do just about everything!"

"We'll take that, too! If Mrs. McCaliffe is worried about her husband, this might help occupy her time, while allowing her to do something practical for her family. Can you wrap all the clothes, Florence, with just a ribbon for the sewing machine? We'll take the clothes with us if you'll deliver the machine."

"My pleasure! I'll have it taken right out there via the delivery wagon, as soon as we finish here!"

"Thank you! Oh, and Florence, did the new door for the oven come in?"

Florence glanced at Ned for confirmation.

"Just came in! Got it right here!" answered Ned.

"Thank you, Ned!" smiled Millicent.

"Yes, thank you, Mr. Yost! Between Uncle Bill and Dad, Momma and I are lucky to have an oven left!" explained Allie.

To which everyone laughed!

"Millicent," called Florence as she had gone to the back of the Mercantile to start the wrapping. "What a wonderful surprise all this is going to be for the McCaliffe Family!"

"We couldn't have done it without your assistance, Florence! Thank you so much! We really appreciate your help, as always!" smiled Millicent. "And yours too, Allie!"

She wasn't about to tell Florence or Ned or anyone for that matter, but the clothes and new sewing machine were going to be the least of the McCaliffe Family's surprises.

Millicent had an idea…


"One new oven door ready to be installed, but, you two didn't tell me you were buying out the Mercantile!" declared Nathan, as he was loading up their car with packages.

"The packages aren't for us, Dad! They're for the McCaliffes!"

"Ah! Very nice. They've had a rough time of it with Mr. McCaliffe's ulcer. He had an attack that last week I did rounds out in his field. I had to help him back to the house, and truthfully, even with assistance, it was a struggle for him, as he was in so much pain!"

"Darling, do you have any idea what his surgery will cost?"

"Actually, I do. I was there when the hospital called. It's pricey, much too pricey for what they can afford. Several hundred if I remember correctly. And a bit more for convalescence."

"Nathan, how about we fix that? Can we take all this to the McCaliffe's Farm sometime today? They're delivering a sewing machine, too, but I thought it would be nice for us to take the clothing gifts in person!"

"I think that's a wonderful idea! In the meanwhile, what are my two Girls thinking we should do for lunch?"

"Well, I was going to make a roasted Chicken for sandwiches at lunch and then Chicken and Dumplings for tonight, but no oven, yet, Love! So, no roasting at the Grants!" teased Millicent.

Nathan chuckled.

"How about the three of us grab something hot at the Café after the Stagecoach arrives?"

"That sounds good," smiled Millicent.

"If we're gonna eat at all!" surmised Allie with an eye roll!

"Now, have I ever let you starve?" asked Nathan, teasingly.

"Well. There was that time all we had was peanut butter and jelly!"

"That was because our icebox leaked! We did supplement that with meals brought in by our neighbors! And if I remember correctly, we ate at least one meal at the Mess Hall each day."

"Oh, yeah! Now, I remember! But the Mess Hall was worse than the peanut butter and jelly, Dad!"

"Come to think of it, that Mess Hall was pretty bad, wasn't it?" remembered Nathan.

"Not to worry! I'll try my best to make up for your dire lack of tasty food! But I have to say, you two look like you survived okay to me!" laughed Millicent.

"You spoil us, Momma! And we love it!"

"Yes, Darling, we do love it! You're going to have to teach me to really cook!"

"Please, Momma! I have to live with his cooking until we get married!"

Both Millicent and Nathan couldn't help but burst out laughing, grabbing Allie into a family hug!

"Hey! I'm not that bad!" chuckled Nathan.

"It's pretty bad, Dad, now that I've tasted Momma's cooking!"

"That's so very true, Allie! Aren't we the lucky ones?" asked Nathan as he checked his timepiece. "Well, speaking of Stagecoaches, it's almost time. Bill and Rosemary are going to meet us in front of the Saloon, at their stopping point."

"Are you sure it's a good idea for us to be with you?" asked Millicent, not wanting to interfere. "I mean, we can go to the library and find a few books, or..."

"We are a couple and a family. We are together. So, the answer is an absolute yes, Love! We stay together! Let's just leave the car here and walk, so at least the car won't be engulfed in dust from the Stagecoach coming through!"

"Nathan!" yelled Gabe from across the street.

"Hey, Gabe! How's your morning going?" asked Nathan, as the three stopped to allow Gabe to meet up with them.

"It just got a whole lot more interesting! Do you have a minute?"

"We'll take a minute, but have to hurry as we're supposed to meet Elizabeth and Little Jack on the Noon Stagecoach."

"There's word out on the street that one or two of Lucas's 'colleagues' may be showing up here in Hope Valley sometime this week. Sounds like he's in a bit of trouble! Just wanted to give you a heads up. Need to tell Bill, too. Don't have any names, but they're supposed to be pretty high up in the chain, and are apparently from the West British Columbia!"

"Ah, the port controllers! Also means there's a glitch in the chain. Must be big if they're coming! I'm meeting Bill, now. Come with us if you'd like."

"Nah, gotta do a couple of things first, but might grab lunch later, and see you then! Still eating at the Café?" grinned Gabe.

"Afraid so, but the new oven door just came in! Now, I've got to get it on and in working order! Should make Bill do it, though!" laughed Nathan. "See you, later, Gabe!"

But as Nathan turned his face away from Gabe, his brow furrowed in thought.

"Darling, are you okay?" asked Millicent.

"Yes, but our timing on our big case may have just shifted a bit. I was hoping we'd have more time…"


Nathan had just given Bill Gabe's message and the two men were discussing possibilities as to what this news meant in very low voices, being extremely careful for no one else to hear.

"Bill, there's a huge part of me that keeps hoping Lucas will come clean and turn them and the goods in!"

"I wouldn't hold my breath for that. I mean there's a chance. But personally, I think that would require a lot of proddin on our parts! And frankly, I'm not sure I'm up to that!"

At the same time, Rosemary was animatedly chatting away with Millicent and Allie.

"Millicent, all the Ladies are wanting to start wearing our hats back to Church again. Why I have half a mind to open a Milliner's Shoppe!"

"That could be fun, along with your Dress Shoppe, Rosemary! You'd corner the fashion market for sure!" smiled Millicent.

"And have plenty of hats for the girls my age, please, Auntie Rosie! We didn't have a lot to choose from!" noted Allie correctly.

Suddenly, all five could hear the rapid pounding of hoofs in the distance.

"Oh! They're almost here!" smiled Rosemary excitedly.

But if truth be known, as happy as Rosemary was for her friend to be coming home, she was also concerned, and maybe even a little worried.

Something didn't feel right, and she was seldom wrong when it came to her 'feelings!'

In fact, Rosemary was bracing herself for what was to come. She was just afraid Nathan and Millicent had no idea. Deep down, she knew, there were going to be at least a few bumps ahead for them…

But she was thrilled to be seeing her friend and most especially Little Jack.

My, how she had missed him!

She secretly wished Elizabeth had just allowed him to have stayed with her and Lee.

In Rosemary's mind, Little Jack would have gotten a lot more love from his Auntie Rosie and Uncle Lee, than from that new Governess he had been placed under.

But instead, and much to her chagrin, since Elizabeth had been in Hamilton, it seemed that Little Jack had pretty much been left with his Governess full-time.

Oh, how she loved that little boy…

"Rosemary, are you alright?" asked Millicent, privately.

Allie had run to speak with Joseph and Minnie, who were walking down the Boardwalk to enter the Cafe.

"I'm missing Little Jack. Truthfully, Millicent, I'm missing my own children. Sometimes the pain is more than I can bear. Elizabeth tries really hard to understand, but she has Little Jack, and I have him too, but I don't have him…and that's the part that hurts. I can't help but wonder if Motherhood will ever happen for me. Yet, when I think about it, I never get a good feeling about it. Instead, I just fall into a deeper and deeper hole of depression," admitted Rosemary. "So, I just ignore the whole issue and get on with my life, trying to be happy in spite of it all!"

Millicent wrapped Rosemary in her arms.

"I'm so very sorry, Rosemary. Have you ever thought about adoption?"

"Yes! We'd actually both love to adopt, but somehow, we just keep putting it off. There just never seems to be a good time."

Millicent handed Rosemary a handkerchief for her to dry her tears.

"I don't know how, Rosemary, but I do know something is going to work out. You are going to be a Mother! And I can tell you this," said Millicent, looking down the Boardwalk toward Allie, "I only know that girl is my daughter, through and through. She's not a step-daughter, or an adopted daughter, although we'll go through that process, too, for legal purposes. She is completely, my daughter. And if I'm ever fortunate enough to birth a daughter, Allie will be no less my daughter. She is my first daughter, and always will be. Maybe we need a first daughter or first son for you and Lee, and then see where things go from there."

Rosemary smiled radiantly.

"Thank you for that, Millicent. I know there's no difference between you or Nathan where Allie's concerned. And that gives me such great peace, and even hope! You are the first person ever, to mention adoption and hope in the same sentence. I can't tell you how very much I've needed that!"

Rosemary wrapped her arms around Millicent in gratitude.

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart!"

The hoofbeats were becoming louder and louder, till it seemed in no time, there appeared the rushed Stagecoach, in all its glory…

As the team of horses was brought to a full stop, Nathan had been right to leave his car parked further away, for the dust from the road was literally everywhere!

As soon as the cloud cleared, Nathan stepped down from the Boardwalk and opened the door.

Little Jack came tumbling out first, straight into Nathan's arms!

"Na'tan! Na'tan!"

"Hello there, young man! Why Jack, I believe you've grown an inch!" smiled Nathan.

The little boy raised his arms and Nathan lifted Jack high up to his pure delight, as evidenced by his many laughs and giggles.

Then Elizabeth, stepped out of the Stagecoach, resplendent in a brand-new outfit, much fancier than she had worn previously in Hope Valley, even when she was with Lucas.

Her hair was in a new becoming style, pulled back much like Millicent was wearing hers, in a low chignon, and her face was aglow with a broad smile, as she embraced Nathan, who was standing with her son.

"Welcome home, Elizabeth," offered Nathan, as he adroitly released her very quickly by turning and lifting Little Jack to Bill, while at the same time taking Rosemary's elbow, guiding her so she could embrace Elizabeth instead.

He tried to extricate himself to stand by Millicent and Allie, but Elizabeth was standing in the very spot that precluded him from doing that, and with the way everyone was standing, there was no way around!

At that moment a handsome, very well-dressed Gentleman, stepped down from the Stagecoach.

He was carrying a beautiful little blond-haired, blue-eyed girl, who looked to be about the same age as Jack, maybe a year younger.

He was followed by an older woman who appeared to be a Governess, a rather strict one if judged by appearance!

The Gentleman turned and politely assisted the older lady down from the Stagecoach.

Expressionless, she dusted herself off, standing rigidly and silently beside him.

Elizabeth seemed to not be aware of any of this and kept chatting away to Rosemary, but Nathan noticed she had not even acknowledged Millicent's presence yet, which caused something to break inside Nathan.

He knew one thing: games were not going to be played where Millicent was concerned.

That he would not stand for.

He had stood and watched Elizabeth unintentionally hurt Allie, but hurt she had.

He had even allowed himself to be hurt by her, deeply and painfully, but he would never allow that again for Allie nor him.

And he most certainly would never allow her to begin to do the same to Millicent.

Nathan Grant could take just about anything, but Elizabeth being spiteful to Millicent was not one of them.

That he wouldn't allow.

Perhaps she just hadn't noticed Millicent or Allie yet…

He'd take the high road, just as he and Millicent had previously agreed upon, and give Elizabeth the benefit of the doubt.

"Allie, so wonderful to see you, Sweetheart!" and Elizabeth embraced Allie, but, again, without acknowledging Millicent, who selflessly had nudged Allie on to hug Elizabeth.

The whole situation was awkward at best because this unknown Gentleman was standing with a Little Girl and the older Lady, without having been introduced to anyone.

Nathan felt sorry for him, as the polite thing to have done would have been to introduce one's co-travelers prior to entering into conversations with others, although that's not what was happening here.

He reached out to shake the Stranger's hand.

"Nathan Grant…"

And that's when Elizabeth suddenly became aware again.

"Oh, Nathan, this is Charles Kensington, III, my Fiance," explained Elizabeth. "We're getting married this New Year's Eve in Hamilton! And everyone's invited!"

Well, with that bombshell, everyone from Bill to Rosemary to Allie to Millicent to Nathan, was taken quite aback, whether from the quick engagement, the stranger who it was to, or the exact identical wedding date that had been chosen, no one knew for sure.

Except to say most were feeling all of the above, with a special preference for 'New Year's Eve' as the most implausible and seemingly most erroneous thing of all three!

No one standing there, had any doubt at all, the identical date was pointedly directed at Nathan and Millicent and their previously chosen Wedding Date.

Even Allie recognized that.

"Best Wishes, Elizabeth," and Nathan kissed her cheek.

"Congratulations to you, Mr. Kensington," smiled Nathan. "Very nice to meet you!"

"It's Charles, Nathan. Nice to meet you as well! I'm sorry we look so worn. But it's our pleasure to finally be here and meet all of you. This is my daughter Eliza Jade, and this is the children's Governess, Miss Shay."

"Darling," called Nathan with a smile, and Millicent, with some difficulty, made her way around Elizabeth from where she was standing, to come to stand by her Fiance, proudly taking his arm.

"This is Millicent Bradford, my Fiancee, Charles. Millicent, this is Charles Kensington, III, and his beautiful daughter Eliza Jade."

"It is a distinct pleasure and honor, Miss Bradford. Thatcher and Kensington has actually supplied some goods for Magna Enterprises, one of your Father's many companies. I've always wanted to meet you, and I must say, you do not disappoint! You are a very lucky man, Nathan!"

"Yes, indeed, I am, Charles! Thank you," beamed Nathan, lovingly looking down at Millicent.

"Congratulations on your upcoming Wedding, Mr. Kensington. Elizabeth is a beautiful and wonderful person," complimented Millicent.

"It's Charles, Miss Bradford! And thank you!"

"It's Millicent, Charles, and Eliza Jade is a real beauty, too. Look at those rosy cheeks!

Eliza reached for her and Millicent took her into her arms, letting her play with her pearl earrings and necklace.

Allie moved from Elizabeth to stand with her family, oohing and aahing over Eliza, who giggled and cooed at the faces she made but was still very content in Millicent's arms.

Elizabeth turned with a stunned look on her face!

She had somehow lost control, and everything was proceeding in a more normal manner, although perhaps not according to her plan.

Bill was still holding Little Jack, and Rosemary was still holding court with Elizabeth, doing her best to ignore the awkwardness.

But at that moment, as if things could get any more awkward, Lucas came out of the Queen of Hearts, and nodded to Elizabeth from outside the doorway, and then headed directly toward her.

"Welcome home, Elizabeth!" he said formally, with a slight bow and smile.

"You're looking quite lovely!" he added, noticing her fancy attire and new hairstyle. "Who do we have here?"

"This is Charles Kensington, III, my Fiance, Lucas. He runs Thatcher and Kensington with Father. Charles, this is Lucas Bouchard."

Nathan watched as Charles shook Lucas's hand, but there was no warmth between the two Gentlemen, only the icy formality of the socially elite.

"Your Fiance? Ah! An engagement! Best Wishes, Elizabeth. And my heartiest Congratulations, Mr. Kensington!"

"Thank you, Lucas!" offered Elizabeth with a faint smile, not quite sure how to take the adjective 'heartiest,' thinking it sounded almost as though Lucas was relieved to be rid of her!

Lucas nodded politely. and was on his way, but then turned.

"Oh, and welcome to Hope Valley, Mr. Kensington! Perhaps we can do some business, together."

Charles nodded with a smile and left it at that.

But even Elizabeth noticed Lucas hadn't said a word to Little Jack, who was still happy in Bill's arms.

Although Elizabeth hadn't said a word about Eliza Jade!

Nathan glanced at Millicent who smiled and nodded, knowing he was asking if they should ask them to lunch.

"I'm sure you all are hungry. Would love for you to join us for Lunch at the Café if you'd like," offered Nathan.

"Thank you, Nathan, but we're dusty, and need to clean up first!" suggested Charles.

"I was hoping Lee would be here with his car to take us to the rowhouse," mused Elizabeth aloud. "I'm not sure what to do with all this!"

"So sorry, Elizabeth! Lee had to go out of town for an early morning meeting, but he should be back soon! If you had let us know earlier, I'm sure he would have been happy to make other arrangements. He's been missing both you and Little Jack very badly!" explained Rosemary.

"Mostly Little Jack, I'm sure!" laughed Elizabeth.

"That's okay, Nathan will be happy to take you," suggested Millicent. "We'll wait for you, Darling, at the Café. And Elizabeth, if you'd all like to come join us after you've had a chance to freshen up, we'd love to have you!"

It was a direct invitation, very cordially offered, and Elizabeth had no choice but to answer.

"Thank you, Millicent. We might just do that! But how in the world is Nathan going to take us home?"

"I'll bring the car if you don't mind waiting here a couple of minutes," he assured her.

"We'd be most grateful," smiled Charles.

"Since when did Nathan get a car?" blurted Elizabeth, as soon as he had gotten out of earshot.

"It's not just a car, Mrs. Thornton, it's a real beauty! Just wait till you see it!" explained Allie.

Charles couldn't help but smile.

"I like you, Allie Grant!" he smiled, and Allie smiled back.

This man was nice, Allie could tell!

Elizabeth and Rosemary chatted, as Nathan went to get the car, about everything from the new clothes to the new engagement, to the new wedding, while Millicent and Allie stood off to the side with Charles, Miss Shay, and Eliza Jade.

Even Rosemary found it most ironic, that with all this news, only the new clothes had been discussed on their many phone calls.

Not a word about the important things, the engagement nor wedding, had been said!

Truthfully, it hurt Rosemary to have been left out of something so very important and life-changing for her best friend.

But it also made her realize, she had been right to worry!

All this was being done entirely too quickly, and too obviously matched with Nathan's and Millicent's Wedding to be coincidental!

Choosing the exact same Wedding Date?

Which Elizabeth knew, because she had point-blank asked Rosemary what date Nathan and Millicent had set!

Even Elizabeth couldn't keep her mouth from falling open when she saw Nathan driving up in his new car.

"Why it's…it's…stunning!" she admitted, barely able to get the words out.

"It's superb, Dear! This thing is a dream!" smiled Charles. "A real dream! Why that's a brand-new Hispano-Suiza, and it looks like the model that was just made in Paris, France! Boy, would I like to drive that thing! Is that yours Millicent?" asked Charles.

"Afraid not, Charles. Nathan chose it and paid for it all by himself!" smiled Millicent proudly.

"I'm impressed! Great taste!" exclaimed Charles.

Elizabeth just looked shocked.

Nathan smiled as he got out.

"I'll get the luggage, while you all get comfortable," suggested Nathan, as he started to lift the first piece of luggage.

"Darling, we've got the trunk loaded, I'm afraid," reminded Millicent.

"Of course, I completely forgot. I'll empty it and come back for the luggage. Nothing like an oven door to fill a trunk!" he laughed. "That little escapade continues to haunt us, Bill!"

"Ah, I'll help load everything when you come back, and even go with you to unload!" offered Bill, feeling a bit of guilt for causing the oven debacle!"

"Thanks, Bill!" smiled Nathan.

"Appreciate that, Bill," agreed Elizabeth.

"Darling, why don't you and Allie just wait in the Café. I trust you to order!" winked Nathan, as he moved to kiss Millicent.

Elizabeth tried to look away but found she couldn't. Nathan had called Millicent Darling, and he was even kissing her in public!

Even Elizabeth had to admit, both looked more in love than a couple had a right to look!

Why Nathan was like a different person, relaxed and genuinely happier than she had ever seen him!

She was nonplussed.

"We'll see you, there!" smiled Millicent, as she returned his kiss. "But do I have to give Eliza Jade back? I think I just want to keep her!"

"Here, I'd better take her. I think she might just be ready for naptime! And you don't want to see Miss Kensington when she gets fussy, believe you, me! Thanks so much for holding her," smiled Charles, who had to practically tear his daughter away from Millicent. "She's quite taken with you!"

Elizabeth noticed as well, as she seated herself in the front passenger seat, leaving Charles and Miss Shay with the children in the back seat.

Elizabeth knew she and Eliza Jane had not yet bonded.

But she wasn't worried, as she was sure that would happen with time.

She honestly just hadn't had the time to yet forge a relationship with the child!

"Na'tan drive us!" shouted Little Jack, even though Miss Shay gave him a startled look.

She was clear that she was firmly of the persuasion, children should be seen and not heard!

And this child was being heard much too loudly!

She'd have to remedy that.

And she was still having concerns about this Hope Valley place being an actual town.

It looked like the middle of nowhere to her!

"Yep, Buddy, Nathan is going to drive you! Are you ready?" asked Nathan, smiling back at the boy.

"Yes!" he answered excitedly.

Bill, Rosemary, Millicent, and Allie stood on the Boardwalk waving after them.

But Millicent noticed Rosemary was looking rather pale, and Millicent was worried.

"Rosemary, come have lunch with us! I insist. Our treat!"

Rosemary nodded, but it was as though she couldn't speak.

She was afraid if she did, the floodgates would open, right there on the Boardwalk for all of Hope Valley to see.

And she simply wasn't in the frame of mind to handle that…


Bill had offered to stay and guard the luggage till Nathan made it back, as the Ladies went on to the Cafe.

Mrs. Nelson was eating there on her lunch break, reviewing a few lessons, while Laura was overseeing her pupils' lunch break back at the school.

Allie went directly to her to say hello and thank her for letting her have the time off to be with her Momma.

Which gave Millicent and Rosemary a few moments of privacy…

"Rosemary, we're alone. What's wrong?"

And Rosemary started tearing up again.

"I'm so sorry, Millicent. She knew you and Nathan are getting married on New Year's Eve, and because of that, I'm not changing our plans."

"Rosemary, I would totally understand…"

"No, Millicent. Lee and I are coming to your Wedding. I'll talk to her about changing her date, and if not, I'll explain why we're going to Montreal, instead. But she didn't even congratulate you or even really acknowledge you till she had to, and there was not a single 'Best Wishes' or 'Congratulations,' other than for them. I'm just not going to stand for that."

"Rosemary, I don't want you to put yourself in the middle of anything. I am perfectly alright! But what's really bothering you?"

"That beautiful little girl, who Elizabeth also didn't even acknowledge. I just can't…" and the tears started to flow.

"Rosemary, I have an idea, can Lee take off this afternoon?"

"I think so. Why?"

"Because I think we should make a trip to Brookfield, to the Orphanage!"

"But you and Nathan need to spend time with each other and with Allie."

"We'll all be together on the way to Brookfield. Bit by bit, this will be a start, you can talk to Lillian and at least get familiar with what the process requires. Who knows? Your first son or daughter might already be there!"

Rosemary started to smile through her tears and then nodded her head.

"Let's do it!"

"The only thing is, will Lee mind if Tom and the men borrow your car to follow us? I'm sure that's the only way Nathan will agree for us to be on the road, from a Security perspective."

"Of course not, I'd rather go in the car with you, anyway!"

"It's a promise! We're all going to Brookfield as soon as Lee arrives back in town!" declared Millicent, and Rosemary almost instantly cheered up.

A weight lifted from her shoulders, and she was so very grateful.

Rosemary had hope again!

And Millicent knew beyond any doubt it was the right thing for them to do!

She didn't know why, but she knew they had to go today.

And she had learned long ago to listen to her God-given instincts…


Elizabeth sat in the luxurious car seat, and couldn't help but watch Nathan driving, from the side of her eyes, with her peripheral vision.

She could smell Millicent's scent on the seat, and couldn't help thinking it should have been her scent in this car instead.

Her head was pointed straight ahead, but still, somehow, Charles knew.

He also knew that now he was in Hope Valley, he not only had the hurdle of Jack Thornton to plow through, he also had the hurdle of Nathan Grant to plow through, too.

"Charles, is this your first visit to Hope Valley?" asked Nathan, aware of Elizabeth's watchful eyes, and wanting to distract her.

"No, actually, I visited some time ago. Before Elizabeth married Jack, in fact," he said it matter-of-factly, almost pragmatically.

With that statement, alone, Nathan knew Charles had been Elizabeth's beau.

Now he knew he had come and fought for her all those years ago.

But he had lost to Jack.

Yet hadn't given up.

He was back.

Good for Charles.

Nathan liked him, and he now appreciated his persistence.

He could see the man sitting behind him as a strong force, something Elizabeth needed in her life.

"Here we are! You all make yourself comfortable, and I'll return with your luggage in no time!" smiled Nathan, as he got out of the driver's seat to open the car doors, first for Elizabeth, and then for his back seat passengers.

Charles watched Elizabeth's reaction as Nathan helped her out of the car.

He didn't need to watch Nathan's because there was none, just as he knew there would be, but his Fiancee was a totally different matter.

There was a smile on her face, but also pain, as well.

Yes, a pained smile would be a more accurate description.

"Nathan, thanks for going to all this trouble," thanked Charles. "We really appreciate it. And I'd give my eyeteeth to drive your car. It's phenomenal!"

"Thank you! It's my pleasure, Charles. But it won't cost you your eye teeth," chuckled Nathan. "You're welcome to test drive it anytime. Welcome to Hope Valley!"

And with a wave, Elizabeth and Charles watched with Eliza Jade and Little Jack, along with Miss Shay, as Nathan pulled out from their rowhouse, and Little Jack shouted "Bye Na'tan!"

"Bye, Jack!" waved Nathan.


"I hope your Lasagna is a suitable lunch, Love!"

"It's delicious, Darling! So is the salad. Thank you!"

"Good! I have a favor to ask, Nate. Rosemary and Lee need to go to Brookfield. Could we take them after we finish here? And have Tom drive their car behind us with Security?"

"Of course. That sounds fun. I've been itching to get the car out on the open road! We'll go right by the McCaliffe Farm, too, so we can drop everything off on the way!"

"That's perfect! Thank you, Love!" and Millicent reached to kiss his cheek.

"Can I go, too?" begged Allie, excitedly.

"It's 'may,' Young Lady and yes you may!" corrected her Dad.

"Yay!" cried Allie, with a little more exuberance than she should have.

"When do we leave?" asked Nathan.

"Rosemary said to come by their house after we finish here."

"Dad, can, may, I go to choose dessert?"

"Yes, Sweetie, you may!"

Allie trotted off as happy as a clam.

"Millicent, I'm so sorry about all this."

"Nathan, do not give it another thought. I'm perfectly fine. I promise I am."

"Elizabeth is not going to get by with ignoring you. I promise you that. And their Wedding Date being the same as our Wedding Date? Isn't that rather childish?"

"Yes, seems to be a bit childish or maybe retaliatory. Who knows, maybe it's just to get our attention. Rosemary says she knew, too. I wonder if they were engaged before or after they knew we were? But none of it really matters. We just continue on as planned, Darling! And hopefully, they do too!"

"I love you, Millicent Bradford! The whole town has congratulated us, Mil. Someday, Elizabeth will too. I'm just glad we did the right thing and congratulated them now."

"What do you think of Charles?"

"I like him. I think he must be her old beau from Hamilton, prior to Jack. He said in the car, that he had been to Hope Valley once before."

"That means he came and fought for her, was rejected, and married someone back in Hamilton, Eliza Jade's mother. Did you think it was odd, that her name was Eliza, the first part of Elizabeth?"

"You would be the one to notice the names, Darling! Although, I couldn't help but notice just about everything else."

"Well, maybe it was a family name. But I should warn you, it's probably best not to mention Eliza or Little Jack unless Rosemary brings them up."

"Ah. She's having a rough time, isn't she? And you, Love, came up with a solution."

"Well, at least a plan. They've talked about adoption and agree they want to do it. They just keep putting it off. I thought maybe if we gave them a little nudge in the right direction…"

"You are the best!" and he kissed her cheek once more.

"Darling, would you think me odd, if I told you I just have a feeling, that we have to go today?"

"No, I would not. Your Father told me to trust your instincts. And I do, very much, Millicent Bradford. Very much, indeed…


"But why would you do all this for us?" asked an incredulous Mr. McCaliffe.

"Because my family has been extremely blessed, and because of that I have a foundation that was set up for this very purpose. The money is there to help any of us who need it, when we need it. Nathan and I just want to see you well, again, Mr. McCaliffe. We want to see you healthy again, able to take care of your family and your farm, again. It isn't your fault that hospital prices are exorbitant. Not many people could ever afford those prices."

"Can I pay you back?"

"No need to do that, but I would ask when you're in a position to help someone, that you do so as well. There will always be someone with a need for help, Mr. McCaliffe."

"Have you ever needed help?"

"Almost every single day of my career, Mr. McCaliffe. You see, I'm a Barrister, and I spend my days trying to help people. I am constantly asking for help so that I in turn can help those people who need it most. I can't do all that needs to be done by myself, so I have no choice but to ask for help."

"Chad, please accept this. I want my husband back, my healthy, happy husband," begged Mrs. McCaliffe. "We are not destitute; this isn't a poverty situation. So, swallow your pride. This is simply a matter of you needing the surgery, and you are absolutely not going to get better without the surgery. Three doctors have told you so!"

"Mr. McCaliffe, I know surgery's a scary thing," started Nathan. "But I also know it's amazing how quickly patients heal."

"How do you know that, Constable?" asked Mr. McCallife, obviously concerned about going through the procedure itself.

"I took a bullet and had to have surgery to have it removed."

Mr. McCaliffe sighed.

"I suppose you had no choice."

"No, I did not. And actually, neither do you. It sounds like to me, you won't get better either until they do the surgery. You were awfully sick a few weeks back, out there in your field alone."

"I'll admit that I was. And I know I couldn't have made it back to the house had you not been here. But truthfully, we wouldn't even be able to get to Union City. We have more than enough, but it takes everything to keep things going. It just doesn't leave a lot to save back!"

"Of course, Sir! But we'll see that you get there. There's more than enough money in that check to cover Train tickets for your entire Family, roundtrip if you'd prefer everyone to go with you," assured Millicent. "There's even enough to pay for a hotel room, and a nurse post-op to come home with you, in case you need it."

"You're making it hard for me to say no."

"Good!"

"I'm afraid she drives a hard bargain, Mr. McCallife. Please just say yes. We'll all be so grateful. We just want to see you well again! That is what all of us want, along with your wife and family," begged Nathan.

Mr. McCaliffe looked Millicent straight in the eye.

"You don't take no for an answer, do you, Miss Bradford?"

"No, Sir! Not when it's something this important with four lives at stake, and respectfully, Sir, this is not just about you. It's about your family, too!"

"Then I suppose the answer's gotta be yes. Yes, I'll do it. And I do thank you for all of this! I promise to pay it forward. It's been getting harder and harder to do anything around here, and I don't want my family and my animals to suffer because I can't take care of them. And I'll admit, that's exactly what's been happening the last couple of months!"

"Oh, but Mr. McCaliffe, you'll be able to take care of all of them again, very soon!" smiled Millicent.

"I can't thank you enough for all of this. You're an absolute Angel. A beautiful Angel! The children will be so happy with their winter clothes. And that sewing machine, well, I've never seen anything like it! Promise me this, after you come back to Hope Valley, you'll both come and have dinner with us!" begged Mrs. McCaliffe. "And I'll make you the most beautiful dress you've ever seen!"

"We would love that. It's a promise, Mrs. McCaliffe!"

"It's Nancy, Dear!"

"It's a promise, Nancy! But only if we can return the favor, and you let me cook dinner for you and your family sometime at our place, after our Wedding, wherever that ends up being!" laughed Millicent.

"A turn-about is only fair! We have a deal!"

"Yes, but can she actually cook?" teased Mr. McCaliffe, looking at Millicent through narrowed eyes.

"Oh, you have no idea, Mr. McCaliffe! She's an absolute whiz in the kitchen! Why I'm going to have to exercise twice as much to keep from putting on weight!" chuckled Nathan.

"Then we do have a deal! Just needed to make sure," he laughed. "You know after I get this ulcer taken care of, I'm gonna be ravenous. And you never know about these city folk. Some can't cook worth a lick! So just checking! And oh, I think it's time you both call me Chad!"

Millicent laughed, "Always best to be cautious, Sir! But I learned from the best. Maybe someday you'll get to meet her, Chad!"

Then with a grin, she hugged Mr. McCaliffe, Chad, and he hugged her back.

Then she did the same with Mrs. McCaliffe, Nancy, who was so grateful, she didn't want to let loose of her.

The McCaliffes had two new forever friends, and so did Nathan and Millicent!

For the first time in a long time, there was happiness and hope back in the McCaliffe Household.

And that filled both Millicent and Nathan with immense gratitude for being able to tag team and accomplish this together.

Outside, Nathan whispered to Millicent.

"I had no idea, but there's nothing like the feeling of being able to help like that, is there?"

"No, Darling, there's not. This is the very best part of everything. Simply being able to help others when they need it most…"


Gabe rode with Security, leaving Bill watching Hope Valley, as he simply couldn't pass up a chance to see Lillian!

Millicent begged Tom to let Security stay in the car, so they wouldn't scare the children, and he finally agreed, positioning his men at each side of the home, in case anyone showed up that looked like they didn't belong!

But Gabe wasn't as easily swayed.

His excitement couldn't be contained.

Neither could his nervousness!

The entourage, including Tom who was manning the front, were standing by their two cars, in front of the Orphanage, trying to help Gabe get enough courage to go in!

"Breathe, Gabe!" instructed Nathan, patting his friend on his back. "Come on, you can do this!"

"Not sure, but at least thanks for the flowers, Millicent. Maybe you could take them to her!"

She had picked up a bouquet of mixed flowers for Mrs. McCaliffe and split them with Gabe when he realized he should have gotten something too.

"My pleasure! But, I'm not giving them to her. That's for you to do. She's going to love them, Gabe!"

"Come on, Old Boy, you've got to introduce us!" nudged Nathan.

Gabe took three deep breaths.

"Millicent, you really think she's ready for this?" asked Gabe.

"From what you've told me, most definitely!"

"Okay. then I'm ready. Come on, let's do this!" declared Gabe, finally.

Looking mighty handsome in his Serge, he then led Nathan, Millicent, and Allie, along with Lee and Rosemary, up the massive steps onto the front porch, and knocked on the front door.

The sound of children happily playing indoors wafted through the walls.

But now, instead of Gabe being nervous, Lee and Rosemary were feeling rather queasy.

"Gabe! I thought you were in Hope Valley!" exclaimed Lillian, as she opened their front door.

Millicent smiled as she could tell this young beautiful red-haired woman was quite pleased with the handsome young Mountie appearing at her door, with flowers, but no notice.

"This is my colleague, now Chief Inspector Grant, and his Fiancee, Millicent Bradford, who is a Barrister, and she wants to help you, Lillian. This is Lee and Rosemary Coulter, whom I believe you've met before."

"Do come in! It's so lovely to have you all visit."

Gabe was still carrying the flowers, having forgotten to give them to Lillian, who noticed and couldn't help but smile, as she continued.

"Please do excuse our mess. The children are having to play mostly indoors due to the cold, and we're running short-staffed, too! We also have three new children who just came today – two infants and a toddler, all in one family, so we're just now getting them settled, too!"

Millicent instantly knew.

These were Rosemary's children she wanted so desperately.

And even without seeing them, or their papers, Millicent's heart was full.

She had faith, and she knew this was what God had been telling her, nudging her to go to Brookfield, urgently.

These three children were why.

She glanced at Rosemary, who hadn't yet recognized the importance of that statement, as she didn't fully understand how any of this worked.

"I'll be moving to Hope Valley soon, for at least part of the year, and I want to help you, Lillian, as my specialty is Family Law, particularly Children. They are my passion!"

"That would be so wonderful, but I'm afraid, we don't have a lot of money."

"I don't need a lot of money. Most of my work is pro bono."

"Oh, Lillian, your flowers!" and Gabe finally pushed his flowers forward, causing Lillian to blush.

"Why, thank you, Gabe. They're beautiful!"

"Miss Lillian!" exclaimed one of the young girls, running up to her. "Would you like me to put them in a jar?"

"That would be lovely, June! Thank you!

Then June asked Allie if she'd like to come too, and the two girls took off for the kitchen to find a jar for the flowers.

"I'm sorry, Millicent. You were saying?" asked Lillian.

"I only want to help. And when I move to Hope Valley, I can't think of a better place to start than here. We can work out something that's suitable for both of us, if you are interested, that is. But this afternoon, Rosemary and Lee are interested in adopting, and as their attorney, we were wondering if you could expand on the two infants and toddler who just arrived. Are they adoptable?"

"Yes, they are. As far as we can tell, there is no family. The parents were wealthy and were murdered for their money. Thank God, the children were left unharmed!"

Nathan, who rarely showed any reactions in public, visibly winced, as he drew his hand to his face, not even able to fathom such a scenario with the Bradfords, or with Millicent and him.

Yes, there was indeed a very valid reason for Security!

"There's a trust fund for them, but it can't be touched until they are legally adopted. The children stand to inherit a large sum as well at the age of 21, which will also be placed in their trust funds at that time. The caveat is that in order for the trust fund to be touched, all three children have to be adopted together. The toddler is an adorable little boy, who is three and will be four in December, Christmas day in fact! The infants, his sisters, are six-month-old twins, who, I'm told, are having a very hard time without their mother. The other home begged us to take them as the girls supposedly cry throughout each night. But I honestly think they just need a mother's love."

That's when Rosemary's face shot up, in understanding, and that's when Millicent could tell, sight unseen, Rosemary became their mother.

Millicent knew the legal ins and outs of how to work things as well as anyone, and truthfully, better than most.

And she could tell Lillian didn't have the staff to take proper care of her three smallest and newest charges, so she used an unusual tactic.

"Would you be agreeable to an emergency claim with the intention of adoption, if I personally vouch for my clients?"

"We would be most grateful for that. And I also know the Coulters well enough to know they are pillars of the community, so there should be no problem whatsoever, if you can get a Judge to sign the order within a twenty-four-hour period."

"That's not a problem. I can have copies sent back to you by tomorrow. May I see all the papers?"

As Millicent intently reviewed the large file that Lillian procured for her, at the dining room table, the words of this conversation were going in and out of Lee's and Rosemary's heads, over and over.

They were floating through their minds.

Could this possibly be happening?

Was this real?

Weren't they just here to talk about adoption, not actually adopt?

But there was a longing within Rosemary's very soul...

Millicent noticed their befuddled state, as she had been through this with new parents many times before.

Once she had satisfied herself as to the validity and terms of the papers, Millicent stacked everything back in order and turned to Lillian.

"Could I please have a few moments alone with my clients?"

"Of course. I'll be in the living room if you need anything at all," smiled Lillian.

"Nathan, please stay," asked Rosemary, as he got up to leave them in privacy.

Nathan turned, nodded, and sat down by Lee, as Millicent scooted closer to Rosemary.

"This is an ideal situation because you would have free and clear claim to the children, in effect, as soon as the adoption goes through.

No legal heirs or relatives have come forward, and the time has already passed for them to contest the will. In addition, because there don't appear to be any surviving relatives, there would be no future claims on the children that you would have to deal with later on."

"And though, I know you don't need it, to have a trust fund too, is almost unheard of. That will allow you to never have to worry financially if you need to use it. And if not, which is preferable, it will just sit and draw money for the children as they grow into adulthood. I'm not allowed to tell you the amount they will inherit at twenty-one, except to say it is very substantial."

"I know it's a lot to think about three children at once, especially at their young ages, but that's the only way in this case. They have to be adopted together in order for the adoptions to be legal, as it's a clause in the parents' will, as well as their trust funds. The parents did everything legally possible to ensure that the children always stay together. If you want to start your family with younger children, this is as good an opportunity as they come."

"From a legal perspective, quite frankly, I've never seen a case as pristine as this! You may want to add older children later, too. Or even your own. But I can't stress how wonderful of a situation this is. It's basically adoption without any of the problems or risks of another family member coming back in and claiming them, and because of their young ages, it's much easier for them to bond with you very quickly."

"Do you think we can get a legal adoption through?" asked Lee, who had always been concerned about growing attached and having an adopted child snatched from him.

"I know you can. And quickly, too. Once that's done, the children are yours forever and ever. Based on everything Lillian has told us and the papers I've looked through, this is truly a golden opportunity. Truthfully, if you're serious about adoption, I don't see how you can pass this opportunity up. I believe…I know this is a gift from God. I honestly believe He led us here today. Now, the two of you have to decide if this is a gift, with all its commitment, and all its hard work, that you want to take on. It's the gift of parenthood with all its pleasures, but it's also the burden of parenthood, up nights with the crying, the sicknesses, and all the other more unpleasant scenarios of parenthood. And you will be doing it times three, all at once! If we start this process, these are your children, not to be forsaken in any way, which I know the two of you would never do. But let's say one of these children becomes seriously ill, you will be their Mother and Father, and that becomes your responsibility, as it would any normal and loving parent. Think this through very carefully and be very sure you want to proceed and meet them."

"Yes!" cried Rosemary forcefully and immediately.

Lee looked at her, surprised by her quickness, and her vehemence.

He took both her hands.

"Are you completely sure, Rosie? This is an awful lot!"

"I've never been more certain of anything in my entire life, Lee Coulter. These are our children. Our Son and two Daughters. I know it in my heart."

"Sight unseen?" he asked softly. "I mean what if they don't like us?"

"Sight unseen. It doesn't matter whether they like us or not or what they look like. It only matters that they grow to love us. They are ours! I just know it! And I already love them!"

"But we don't even know their names."

"We don't need to Lee, because their last name is now Coulter, and that's all we need to know!"

Rosemary was resolute, and it was her resoluteness that gave Lee strength.

He looked down as if he was saying a desperate prayer, folding his hands in front of his face, with Rosemary placing her hand on his back.

After several minutes, he raised his head and took her hand.

"Millicent, I believe it's time to meet our Son and Daughters," announced Lee, with a jubilant smile.

Millicent and Nathan both got up and hugged both Lee and Rosemary, who were literally shaking with excitement, while all four were crying tears of happiness!

"Congratulations. You are now parents! And your three children who are waiting for you, may not know it yet, but they are very blessed, indeed, to have the two of you as their new Mother and Father," declared Millicent. "Let me go talk with Lillian. You three wait here…"


Millicent returned holding one infant and the hand of the little boy. Lillian was holding the other infant, who had been disturbed from her nap and wasn't happy.

She placed the crying infant in Rosemary's open arms, and Rosemary nestled the 6-month-old to her like she had always belonged there, and to everyone's amazement, the crying stopped.

"Rosemary, this is your daughter, Sadie," introduced Lillian.

And Rosemary was truly, instantly, in love!

Millicent put the other infant in Lee's arms, and although he was very nervous, he was also mesmerized.

"Lee, this is your daughter, Sophie," smiled Millicent.

Lee hesitated but was unable to take his eyes off of his new Daughter.

"You can do this, just hold her tightly. She won't break," urged Millicent.

The little boy, watched every move Millicent made, so once Sophie had been passed to Lee, she knelt down on the floor to be at his level.

"Oliver, you have two beautiful Sisters, and now you have a new Mommy and Daddy."

"My Mommy? My Daddy?"

He reached out to touch her hair, and Millicent didn't draw back in the least.

"Yes, this is your beautiful new Mommy and your handsome new Daddy. They already love you so very much, and your sisters. They are going to take the very best care of all three of you. Do you want to ask me anything, Oliver?"

"Go home?"

"Yes, you will if you want to. They hope you will very much."

"Sissers go home, too?" he looked like he was going to cry, and Millicent reached to hug him.

Nathan watched, his heart exploding with love, amazed at how confident Millicent was, and how mesmerized Oliver was with her.

"Yes, Sweetheart, your Sisters, and your new Parents will always stay together. You are a new family together. I know your new Mommy and Daddy. They are my friends and they are just the best people. They're going to be a wonderful Mommy and Daddy to you and your Sisters!"

Oliver reached out and hugged Millicent's neck, then nestled into her, but he was still shy and not yet reaching out for Rosemary or Lee.

"You know, Oliver, I have a brother named Oliver, just like you," smiled Rosemary.

"You do?"

"I do! He's handsome just like you, too. He'll be your new Uncle. Would you like to see a picture?"

Rosemary maneuvered the locket at her neck, while holding Sadie, and opened it, then handed it to Oliver.

"Ollver."

"Yes, that's your Uncle Oliver," smiled Rosemary, whose maternal instinct had thoroughly kicked in.

And although it was the last thing she wanted to do, she handed Sadie to Millicent.

She did it to clear her lap for Oliver, because she could tell this little boy needed her the most.

He still didn't reach for her, but she kept talking softly to him, waiting patiently, till finally, he walked over to her, and stared at her.

"May I hold you?" she asked softly.

He nodded yes, and started climbing into her lap where his sister had been.

She lifted him up and wrapped her arms around her Son, whose birthday was the exact same as Little Jack's, a monumental fact not at all lost on her.

Who could have imagined?

That cold Christmas night, three, almost four years ago, when she and Abigail were helping deliver Little Jack in that snowstorm, another woman somewhere else in Canada was delivering Oliver.

Her Son, Oliver.

Tears flowed down her cheeks.

She would forever be grateful to that woman.

"Mommy crying," as Oliver watched her intently.

Her Son had called her Mommy…

"Mommy no cry," and he curled into her, and she held on for dear life, but no matter how much she tried, she couldn't stop her tears.

They flowed freely and profusely, washing all the angst, all the despair, all the disappointment, all the emptiness, all the incompleteness, all the longing, and all the sadness of their infertility years away forever.

Oliver kept patting her and hugging her, trying his best to wipe her tears away.

And somehow this little boy instantly became Rosemary's Son…


"Gabriel, I can't believe you brought us an answer to prayer. We didn't have a clue as to how we were going to manage these three little ones. Thank you! And thank you for the beautiful flowers."

"When I get back from my stay in Hope Valley, I'm going to help you here around the Orphanage, Lillian," said Gabe resolutely.

"You're busy, Gabe, as is. You don't have to do that!"

"I want to do that. I want to know how things work, so I can figure out how I best fit in. With you Lillian, and with the children."

He squeezed her hand, and she was so surprised, but pleasantly so.

"You matter to me, Lillian. So very much! And these children matter to you, which means they also matter to me."

They were now standing in the privacy of the kitchen, and that's where Gabe and Lillian experienced their tender, very sweet, and memorable first kiss, right in front of the kitchen sink!

They didn't know that Millicent had just walked by to get a glass of water for Oliver, and caught a glimpse, which left a smile on her face, as she quickly and silently retreated…


Nathan loaded the Children's belongings into his trunk and into Lee's trunk.

By the time Oliver was comfortable with leaving the Orphanage, it was late evening.

Poor Little Guy had only been there part of a single day!

But if they were lucky, they'd make it home before nightfall, if only barely.

Oliver couldn't remember riding in a car, as the children had come to the Orphanage on a Stagecoach and Train.

So, he was more than a little bit impressed with the two automobiles parked in the front yard, as most boys are, no matter the age.

Lee and Rosemary placed Allie and Oliver between them, with Oliver on Allie's lap, and Sadie on Lee's lap, and Sophie on Rosemary's lap.

Rosemary and Lee reached to kiss each other over Oliver's head.

Lee's voice caught, with tears in his eyes.

"We're…parents, Rosie! We're finally parents!"

To say there was joy in this car, was an understatement of epic proportions.

This car carried two new families, already families by heart, with only the legal documents still pending.

And their joy was immeasurable!

Nathan reached for Millicent's hand.

Via her foundation, today, she had saved a man's life, by filling a medical need that impacted an entire family, the McCaliffes, giving them the means to heal, and move forward, together as a healthy family with now a bright future ahead of them, instead of loss.

By following her God-given instinct and her legal training, she had also created a new family today, the Coulter Family, fulfilling their lifelong dream, expanding them from a couple with no children, to a couple with three beautiful children!

And she had even given Gabe the confidence to firm up his relationship with Lillian!

It was also not lost on Nathan and Allie, that their new family together, would be a selfless one, and that reaching out to help others was going to play a huge role in their day-to-day lives.

That was the essence of Millicent, Nathan's true love, and Allie's Momma, and both had gotten to see that firsthand.

"I am so very proud of you," he whispered. "I love you Millicent Bradford, my Kalie!"

She smiled radiantly back at him.

This wasn't at all the day with just the three of them, they had planned.

It was infinitely better because they had reached out and given!

There had been surprises galore, even a few awkward and difficult moments, and instead of private family time, there had been shared family time.

But for all the planning in the world, there was no way this day, could have ever been topped!

For Gabe and Lillian, the new Coulter Family, the healing MaCaliffe Family, and the soon-to-be three Grants, this was an important day that had changed their lives, and would never be forgotten…