CHAPTER 65: Weekend Moments to Treasure & A Loving Farewell
Millicent woke early, humming low as she began to quietly fix breakfast, allowing Nathan, Allie, and Bill to sleep a bit longer in the living room.
The Men were exhausted, plus Allie had had a long emotional night too.
But it wasn't long till the heady aroma of Bacon, Coffee, Banana Chocolate Chunk Pancakes, and Caramelized Banana Syrup filled the little rowhouse to the brim, streaming from the kitchen into the living room, waking the sleepy trio!
"Breakfast is almost ready if you three want to make yourselves presentable!" smiled Millicent, when she saw that they were up.
Nathan ran a hand through his unruly hair and moaning, lept for the staircase, with Bill not far behind.
No way was he going to kiss Millicent like this. Not as her Fiance! A Man had to keep up some semblance of propriety! His beard overgrowth was atrocious, and this just wouldn't do!
"What just happened?" asked a puzzled Allie as her Dad and Uncle escaped from the room.
"I think your Father and Uncle Bill might want to make themselves a bit more presentable for us Ladies before breakfast!"
"That's funny, Momma! They did look pretty rough!" laughed Allie.
"Well, don't forget, they worked very hard last night and both have to be very tired."
"I know! I'm still tired from all the waiting, too, but I guess, I'm more starved than I'm tired!"
Millicent kissed her Daughter on the top of her head.
"That's a very good sign for a growing girl! Why don't you hurry upstairs and get dressed for Breakfast? Hot pancakes will be waiting! Your favorite Banana and Chocolate Chunk!" laughed Millicent, as Allie was already halfway up the staircase! "Besides today is going to be a fun day..."
She returned to the kitchen, alone but still humming, pouring orange juice for everyone, along with milk for Allie. She also set out the butter and the whipped cream she had already whipped to use for topping the Pancakes. Then she stirred the Caramelized Banana Syrup she had made from scratch that was still raucously boiling in the big iron skillet on the stove.
She had already placed the finished pancakes, along with several rashers of fried bacon, into the oven to keep them warm there.
"Let's see! What is missing? We need some of Nathan's flowers!"
She quickly moved to the living room and selected the violets Laura had brought from her Family's Farm, which had been moved from Nathan's room to the front window for better light.
Returning to the kitchen, she placed them in the very center of the table, on top of the white cloth she had flounced and spread out.
"There. They look perfect here! Oh, the linen napkins!"
She had also used Nathan's Mother's pretty blue breakfast dishes, which looked beautiful against the white cloth, accented with the deep blue violets.
It was cold outside, although not as cold as it had been. But she felt so warm here, inside Nathan's kitchen, loving nothing better than to care for him, Allie, and Bill.
She was so appreciative that Bill had made this trip possible by agreeing to chaperone them.
There had been good times in this kitchen, with lots of meals that had been shared.
Nathan claimed he wasn't that great of a Cook, but what she had eaten from him had been impressive. Perhaps he just needed a bit more confidence, a little guidance, maybe the addition of a few seasonings here and there, and maybe just learning a few cooking tricks. As Millicent thought about it, an idea began to form in her mind!
One she really loved.
She had the sudden urge to cook a meal with him, but with him choosing the entire menu, one he felt comfortable cooking.
Then she would help him with little tweaks here and there.
After all, he was soon going to be the head cook again.
As she poured her hot buttery, syrupy concoction into a small copper pitcher, which she warmed in the oven, she began cleaning up the mess she had made.
Glancing out the window, she couldn't help but marvel at what Nathan, Bill, Gabe, and the others had accomplished last night.
Canada was now a better, much safer place because of them.
And she was bursting with pride!
The largest Syndicate in the entire country was no more. She hadn't yet heard all the details, at least not of the aftermath, so she had a ton of questions running through her mind about the Jasper situation and Madame Desmona Deschenes. Obviously, everyone's minds had been on other things last night.
Which made her smile.
She felt so warm in Nathan's arms. So safe. So protected.
It was where she belonged.
Barely a month into their new relationship, it felt like they had always been in love, always been a couple.
And only a little over a month to go till their Wedding Day!
That thought brought a radiant smile to her lips.
At that exact moment, warm lips touched the back of her neck, as strong arms, despite an injury, wrapped around her waist.
"Good morning, my Love!" he whispered.
"Hmm, I wonder who that could be…" keeping her back turned to him, busily washing her pan.
"Keep that up and you're in big trouble, Miss Bradford."
"I don't know! This Man is definitely clean-shaven, and the Man I was with last night was decidedly NOT clean-shaven," she mused aloud.
"Counselor, if that is your only premise, it is greatly flawed," he whispered into her ear, kissing it so gently, and locking his hands across her waist, making her forget about their little chat altogether.
Her stomach did an absolute flip.
The things this Man did to her!
She couldn't help herself, literally melting back into him, trusting him implicitly to catch her, to hold her.
And catch her and hold her he did, stretching his neck so that his lips melded with hers, breathing sweet words into his kiss.
"Good morning, Love! My Fiancee looks quite enchanting this morning."
"And you, my Fiance, look devilishly handsome!" as she turned her head and stole a peek from the corner of her sparkling eyes.
"Devilishly handsome? That's a first!"
"Oh, there will be many firsts, my Love!"
He grinned that lop-sided grin of his and couldn't stop grinning it, with no comeback to be had, except maybe one.
"Well, I for one, am looking forward to each and every single one of those firsts, whatever they may be!"
"My, you're awfully trusting this morning! Very brave, too!" she teased.
"Good morning," belted out Bill after clearing his throat, a little more loudly than necessary!
Allie slipped in behind her Uncle Bill, dressed in her Saturday play clothes.
"Momma, this jumper is getting really worn. Do you think it can be fixed?"
Millicent looked at the fabric Allie was pointing to.
"Short of replacing the entire skirt portion, I think not! You know, Allie, we need to order you two or three everyday outfits today from the Mercantile. I'll send you a couple from Montreal, too! A few new school outfits wouldn't hurt either!"
"Allie, you should have told me you needed clothes," suggested her Father. "We could have ordered them."
"I didn't know, Dad. Momma asked me in Union City, but I was so excited, I just forgot!"
"No worries, we'll fix that today at the Mercantile," promised Millicent, as she poured the Coffee. "Family, please be seated. Breakfast is served as soon as we pray!"
Now that announcement was received with utter delight radiating from three expectant faces.
"Bill, will you please lead us in prayer?" asked Millicent.
The Family gathered hands and each bowed their heads, as Bill solemnly began his prayer.
"Dear Father, we'll start off this morning thanking You for keeping us all safe last night and helping us get the bad guys! Then we must thank You for what we know will be delicious food. We thank You, also, for the one who made this meal…
And this is where Bill broke down, so he took a moment in silence, then slowly began again.
"But most of all, we thank You for this beautiful Lady who has a heart of gold and has turned our lives into a true Family. To be honest, we're not sure how we're gonna' get by without her over the next month, but we ask You to be with her as she goes home to Montreal, to bless her, give her safe travels, and let her know our hearts are going with her. Help her to not be too lonely while we're apart. We also especially ask You to strengthen Nathan and Allie, and well, me, as we prepare to spend this time without her physical presence, which we've grown to depend on and love. But we want her to know, she will still be with us in our hearts. Always. Thank You for her, and for blessing our lives by placing her in them. We humbly give our deepest thanks, in Your most Blessed Name. Amen!"
"Amen!" spoke Nathan, very emotionally with a catch in his voice. "Beautiful, Bill!"
"Amen," joined Millicent softly.
"Amen," sighed Allie, squaring her shoulders at the thought of missing her Momma, trying her best to garner strength not to cry.
It felt like she had just gotten here, and Allie wasn't at all ready for her Momma to leave.
"That's truly lovely, Bill. Thank you so very much. I will take that prayer with me and hold onto it," and Millicent got up and kissed Bill on the cheek, who quickly and brilliantly blushed ten shades of red!
"You get one too, Allie," and she kissed her Daughter's cheek. "Everything's going to be alright! I promise!"
"And last but not least," she kissed Nathan, gently and poignantly, but quickly, her lips to his lips.
His eyes became clouded with his love for her, and he grabbed her hand, turning it face up, then he brought her open hand to his lips where he lingered his kiss upon her palm, then closed her fingers tightly about his kiss, for her to hold with her there.
Her tender smile gave him all the love he needed in that moment.
Such a simple gesture, but both overjoyed with their love for the other.
"By the way, these might just be the best Pancakes I've ever had!" proclaimed Bill.
"You said that the last time, Bill! But they are wonderful, Mil! Truly wonderful. The Syrup is utterly delicious! I think it's my favorite."
"The best, Momma!"
"Thank you, all!"
Millicent cleared her throat, and brightened her smile, trying her best to lighten the overall mood.
"You three just get ready, because we're going to have the most wonderful Saturday!"
"What are we doing, Momma?"
"Well, first I'm meeting with the Bouchards and my Colleague from Union City, just after we finish here, for a few hours. Your Father is going to rest while I do that because later he has a surprise for us! But he has to rest up in order to give us the surprise. After that, it should be time for us to all grab lunch together at the Café, say about noon?"
"What's your surprise, Dad?"
"It's pretty big, Allie! Dr. Carter has finally cleared me to ride Newton, so I thought we'd all go riding together after lunch!"
"Me too, Dad?"
"Yes, Allie! Seth is getting Nellie ready for you to ride."
"Really?"
"Really! I agreed to rest up during the mornings, so we can all ride together in the afternoons! I'll admit, I'm beyond thrilled! I've missed Newton so much! And just riding in general! Especially with my Girls!"
"Hmph! I'm surprised Faith ever agreed to it," groused Bill.
"After a little pressure, she finally admitted that given my riding abilities, the risk of falling and further damaging my injury is minimal. But she did make me agree to wear a special sling that's supposed to stabilize my shoulder and still allow me to use my hand. I'm not really too happy about that, but we'll see how it works!"
"That's great! Why don't I come too? Allie and I can be partners in case you two want to ride ahead," suggested Bill.
"Or lag behind," he added with a laugh.
"Funny, Bill! But do come. Although I should warn you, Faith's other condition was that I had to agree to no 'freestyle follow the wind galloping' or 'flying paces' like we're accustomed to. Afraid I'm stuck instead to a much more 'laid-back trot' or 'easy cantor.' You all may have to leave me in the dust! Newton's sure not going to like it at all!"
"I think that helped her to agree! Also, the fact it's getting a bit warmer than it has been. But no worries there, because I'm going to bundle you up so much, there's no chance of a cold, Love!" smiled Millicent, as she took Nathan's hand.
She wasn't taking any chances of Nathan catching a cold or even worse!
"This is the perfect Saturday Breakfast, Millicent! The Chocolate Chunks remind me what I meant to ask you! What in the world did you put in those Brownies last night?" asked Bill.
"What Brownies last night?" asked Allie, not at all happy she had missed out.
"Yes, Bill, what Brownies? Those were supposed to be MY Brownies!" interjected Nathan. "But, at least, I was planning to save a couple for both you and Allie!"
"Well, it's not my fault they were so delicious, Nathan. Sorry, but I sort of got started and couldn't stop!"
"That's enough fussing you three! There happen to be more Brownies, which are hidden for afternoon treats!"
"You hid the Brownies?" asked Bill as though he had been personally affronted.
'Indeed, I did! Because every single one of them would have been gone with you two, and Allie would never have had a chance to even taste one. Although, to be honest, Allie, I'm not sure you'll even like them. They're flavored with Coffee, Vanilla Paste, and a very special Chocolate I had Florence to order! So, they're a bit different than what you're used to."
"I'll try anything once, Momma. Besides, if you made them, I'm sure they're good!"
"Thank you, Sweetie! How about us taking them for our ride, later?"
"You know, I need that recipe," begged Bill.
"I'll make you a deal. You show me how to make your Burgoo, and I'll show you how to make Brownies!"
"Deal! Let's do it today!"
"Bill, Millicent is not going to spend her last Saturday with us, showing you how to make Brownies!"
"Oops, sorry, Chief! Okay, Millicent, it's a date, the first week you get back to Hope Valley post Honeymoon!"
"Really? Are you serious, Bill?" asked an incredulous Nathan.
"You better believe it! Those Brownies are an absolute goldmine!" declared Bill without any remorse, or consideration for anything other than his Brownies.
Nathan then gave up, chuckling while shaking his head, with Millicent and Allie just giggling.
"You might be waiting a bit longer than that, Bill!" warned Nathan with a grin, but his eyes were on Millicent, both thinking of all the new things they would be occupied with post Honeymoon, mainly each other!
Still gazing at Nathan, Millicent took pity on Bill.
"How about I write the recipe out for you and you write out the Burgoo recipe for me?"
"Deal!" and with that Bill was as happy as a clam.
A very sardonic, insistent, and persistent clam…
Millicent glanced up from the Judge's desk, to see J. Paul Goldman, Esquire, a most distinguished-looking young man, standing in the doorway.
He was Millicent's height, with dark brown hair and brown eyes that could literally bore into a person, even a Judge.
Not at all a bad trait for a Barrister to have!
Her face lit up and she ran to greet her Colleague and Friend.
"J. Paul, thank you! It's wonderful to finally see you, again! I can't tell you how much I appreciate you coming to Hope Valley!"
Millicent hugged her old classmate, who kissed each of her cheeks as he had always done.
"Millicent, for you, it's my pleasure! I must offer my deepest Best Wishes on your Engagement in person, and I sincerely do mean that! Although I must admit, you've left a very long line of broken hearts across Canada and beyond! My own included!"
Millicent called his bluff and laughed.
"J. Paul, you know that isn't true! Your heart was smitten the moment you met Olivia!"
"Touche! But there was always a bit of it that was left for you! How could there not be? There wasn't a Man in Law School who wasn't enamored of you, and you ignored us all!"
"You give me far too much credit! Besides, I had loads of work to do, in order to work rings around you Men!"
"You did that alright, Miss Valedictorian, the first female Law Student of our Alma Mater and the first female Valedictorian of any College in Canada, I do believe!"
"Will you stop? It was simply survival, and you know it! They wouldn't have kept me for a quarter, had I not excelled, and you know that too! Dean McHenry and his cohorts were constantly looking for new ways to 'get rid of that monstrous woman!' Remember?"
"The sad thing is you're right! Wasn't fair at all, but that's exactly the way it was! That's why we were all rooting for you, even though we were jealous of all those perfect grades, too!" he grinned. "And chagrined we were constantly rejected!"
He was teasing her again, and she had learned a long time ago to just ignore it and let him be.
So, she disarmed him with a compliment instead.
"You always were in my corner, and for that, I'm most grateful!"
"But seriously, we worried about you too. All you ever did was work! Law and Charities. Charities and Law. Oh, and pining for Nathan!"
She blushed but held her own.
"There was hardly time for anything else, dear J. Paul! And you're right, my heart was already taken, from the age of ten no less! Afraid it's always been my Nathan, and always will be! Now, are you ready for us to roll up our sleeves and prepare for our clients?"
J. Paul gave an askew glance, then threw back his head and laughed.
"Absolutely, ready! But, first, back to our little discussion. If most women said they had always loved the same man, I would say they were crazy, but with you, I don't doubt for a minute that it's always been, Grant! That Man stole your heart away long ago and didn't give any of the rest of us a chance! But I must say, you two do make a stunning couple!"
"I assume you've seen the papers, but thank you, J. Paul! If I'm perfectly honest, I think it only took one look from him, and yes, when we were children no less! Now, back to work for the two of us. We have lots to cover!"
"Where can I set my briefcase?"
"Right here! First, I want to brief you on the case from the beginning. It has huge ramifications!
J. Paul took out an elegant gold cartridge pen, along with a brown leather binder full of lined paper, ready to give his rapt and astute attention.
Millicent briefed J. Paul for a solid two hours, making sure to include every single detail she knew, and he didn't miss a thing.
The man was sharp and asked a ton of pertinent questions as they went, with both of them taking notes as they discussed.
Every possible angle of the situation from a legal perspective was reviewed and placed on the table for consideration.
"Tell me about Bouchard."
"I'd rather you meet him first yourself. Then we'll discuss if that's alright?"
"Fair enough! Actually wise. Let me size him up without any biases, and then we'll compare what we feel are his strengths and weaknesses. From what you've told me so far, the Man has no room for error in how he presents himself to the Court. But I'll withhold judgment for now, and we'll see!"
Promptly at Ten A.M., Lucas Bouchard and his Father, John Henry Bouchard, arrived in the Judge's chambers.
"Lucas, John Henry, this is J. Paul Goldman, Salutatorian, Magna Cum Laude, of our Law Class and an esteemed Colleague and Friend. J. Paul, this is our client Lucas Bouchard, and his Father John Henry Bouchard!"
J. Paul leaned forward, and in a rather commanding way, offered his hand.
"Mr. Bouchard, as you know I graduated with Miss Bradford, and I must tell you she graduated top in her class, both Valedictorian and Summa Cum Laude, so you are in the best of hands. I doubt you'll need me in her absence, but I'm at your disposal if something unforeseen arises and you do!"
Millicent blushed slightly, as graduating status was a fact she never alluded to, but she was very grateful the Bouchards' seemed to be accepting of her Colleague.
The four spoke for a full hour and thirty minutes, laying everything on the table, holding nothing back.
The conversation was peppered with lots of hard questions from both sets of parties.
After Millicent and J. Paul said their goodbyes to the Bouchards, having exchanged their contact information, which Millicent had already prepared, the two Barristers discussed their individual perspectives.
"What do you think of him, J. Paul?"
"I'm worried about his nerves. No disrespect, but there's a shiftiness about him, we have to eliminate. No Judge or Jury is going to be on his side as is."
"I know what you mean. He never appears to be forthright even when he is. He simply has to relax and find his authenticity in order to even have a chance. How do we coach that? It's been my biggest concern about him."
"I think we start by grilling him ourselves, then maybe have him grilled again by an outsider, someone he has no link to. Someone who will go on the attack! But there should be plenty of time for us to do that as we near an actual Court Date. Now his Father is as authentic as they come, so that's a plus. We've just got to get some of that to rub off on the Son!"
"Agreed! J. Paul, can you have lunch with us?"
"Would love to Millicent! But I have a train to catch at half past noon."
"Well at least come by the Café with me and meet Nathan as well as Judge Avery. I'll have a lunch packed for you to take with you. The food is very good and we'll see that you get to the Train Station!"
"You know I can't resist you! Besides I'd love to meet your Chief Inspector Grant and Judge Avery too! Have heard lots of good stories about both of them back in Union City…"
As Millicent walked into the Café with J. Paul Goldman, the townspeople couldn't help but wonder who this good-looking stranger was.
Nathan was sitting with Bill, while Allie was table-hopping with some of her friends. But Nathan rose immediately, and smiling, walked to the front door to greet Millicent and her Colleague.
"Hello, Darling! I trust you two had a good morning," as he kissed her cheek.
"Yes, Love! This is my Friend and Colleague J. Paul Goldman. J. Paul, this is my Fiance, Nathan Grant!"
"Chief Inspector, it's an honor. I've heard lots of good things about you! You're somewhat of a legend in Union City!"
"Well, I don't know about that, but very pleased to finally meet you. I've heard great things about you too. We'd love you to stay and have lunch with us."
"Thank you! I'd love that too, but my Train leaves at half past noon. And I do have an important appointment on my arrival back home. Millicent offered to get me a lunch to take with me. I would like to meet Judge Avery, though, if you don't mind?"
"I'd love to introduce you. Speaking of legends, this man is truly one of a kind! Come with me."
While Millicent excused herself to order J. Paul's lunch, Nathan introduced him to Bill, and there was an instant connection of camaraderie among the three men.
After speaking for only ten minutes with Nathan and Bill, J. Paul insisted they get together in Montreal, as he was definitely coming to the Grant Wedding.
But it was Nathan who asked the key question of J. Paul, wondering about his take on Lucas.
J. Paul answered honestly, with neither Bill nor Nathan being surprised with his assessment.
"So, given that, how do we help him?" asked Nathan.
"I think he has no idea how he comes across. It's our job to fix that. How I'm not sure, but Millicent and I will be questioning him at length. And by questioning, I do mean grilling. We'll also bring an outsider in to do the same. But his persona has got to change prior to his Court Date, or he's going to be in a world of hurt."
"If he could only be more like his Father. He's the perfect role model as far as demeanor," mused Nathan.
"Exactly that! I noticed the same in our short time with them. Maybe, his Father is our key. Perhaps he could have more influence on our client than any of us."
"I'll speak with him if you'd like. Perhaps a more personal approach would be more beneficial than a legal one?"
"Always is. That would be much appreciated and I think a great start to get him where we need him to be. Nathan, before I forget, I must congratulate you! There is none better than Millicent! You both are very blessed to have found each other. And I mean that sincerely."
"Thank you, J. Paul. That means a lot, and I agree, no one comes close to Millicent. I am indeed extremely blessed, and I will spend the rest of my life making her happy!"
J. Paul chuckled and slapped Nathan on the back.
"Nathan, you don't have to worry about that! You already have! I know her well. She's loved you her entire life, and I've never seen her so happy!"
"Thank you for that, J. Paul! That means the world…"
After Nathan, Millicent, Allie, and Bill had finished their lunch, Bill jumped up ready to get their dessert.
"We adults are having Cherry Cobbler. What would you like Allie, since there seem to be no Brownies available?" asked her Uncle Bill, with a not-so-subtle dig, still missing those hidden Brownies of Millicent's.
"They're coming later, Bill!" laughed Millicent.
"Sorry, Uncle Bill, Mrs. Weise asked if I could join her and Opal for dessert. May I, Dad?"
Nathan looked at Millicent, who nodded her agreement.
"Yes, you may, Allie. In fact, we adults have a little business to discuss while you're with Opal. But don't be too long, as we'll be going to the Livery soon!"
"Thanks, Dad! I can't wait!"
Nathan's eyes followed Allie as she trotted off to spend some time with her best friend.
"I tell you those two are as thick as thieves!"
"Besties, Love! Remember Colleen and me! Not to mention you and Richard?"
"How could I forget? But were we really this bad?"
"Afraid so, Love. Infuriatingly so to our Parents! The four of us were inseparable! You know, I've been dying to ask but didn't want to this morning in front of Allie. What can you tell me about Jasper?" wondered Millicent anxious to hear the details.
"As we were leading the charge here, the Jasper Royal Canadian Mounted Police were doing the same thing in their own town, accompanied by a special task force sent by Commissioner Anderson. They not only took over the Syndicate Headquarters and home of Madame Deschenes, they also arrested the Madame herself, along with all of her local minions. Who, by the way, were a shocking array of highly thought of Community Leaders, from Jasper and the neighboring towns!"
"How awful! Can you imagine how their families feel?"
"I've been told not only the families, but the entire towns, are reeling. Here they thought their leaders were honest and upright but instead are finding out they are the most heinous of criminals, which has been quite shocking, to say the least! Apparently, not even their Families were suspicious of any wrongdoing. There is also the issue of having to review and reconcile all the public accounts they were in control of. No telling how those were mishandled!"
"What about Madame Deschenes? How did she respond?"
"By attempting suicide by lethal injection."
Millicent gasped.
"But, thankfully, the leader of the Commissioner's special task force recognized what she was reaching for under her dress sleeve, and was able to wrestle the syringe from her hand quickly enough to expel the drug into the air, leaving her no escape and no hope whatsoever."
"What will happen to her, Nathan?"
"She's been brought to Union City for trial, as they wanted to keep the whole thing as low-key as possible. But she, like those around her, will live out their lives in a maximum-security prison, located far from the civilization and high society she adored."
"Their cases are indeed ironclad, aren't they?"
"Yes, we made sure of that. You know it's hard to believe this woman who so eloquently and ruthlessly barked horrific orders to all these powerful Men around her, her entire adult life, will now be rising at 5 AM and be the one receiving endless, non-negotiable orders twenty-four-seven!"
"Hot Cherry Cobbler dripping with Vanilla Ice Cream for all!" announced Bill, setting their desserts down before them.
"Looks delicious, Bill!" complimented Millicent.
"I was just filling Millicent in on Jasper and the arrests made there," explained Nathan, as Bill sat down to rejoin the conversation.
"Yep! The all-powerful Madame Deschenes, once thought to be invincible, is now broken and only a shell of her former self!"
"Mil, there's another thing that was somewhat unexpected," began Nathan. "As well as a bit intriguing."
"What's that, Love?"
"Vast and priceless goods were seized that the Syndicate had not yet processed. They were stored in a labyrinth of tunnels discovered under and surrounding the Deschenes Estate."
"Really? That's amazing! But I suppose we should have realized there would have at least been some unprocessed goods with a place needed for their storage! Right?"
"Yep, just not that many! And not that ingenious of a storage system! Poor Antoinette was unwittingly livin' on a massive treasure trove of stolen goods!" remarked Bill, as Nathan finished his statement.
"A treasure trove of stolen goods beyond what most small countries hold as their entire treasury…"
Nathan and Millicent rode closely together under the afternoon sun, enjoying watching Allie with her Uncle Bill, who was showing her some riding tips.
"Poor Girl, with all of us helping her, she's either going to end up being the best horsewoman ever or very confused!" laughed Millicent. "I do see lots of potential, though. If we keep this up, by the time Cookie is ready to ride, Allie's going to be a real pro!"
"She does seem to be a natural, doesn't she? I need to find her a horse she can practice on more regularly until Cookie's ready!"
"Wish I could look with you! Do you think your Parents might have a horse that would work?"
"That's a good idea. I'll check with them. They'd love for Allie to have one of their own to work with. And let's face it, no one trains a horse better than my Dad! Millicent, are you okay?"
"Not really, but I refuse to waste one single moment of our time together, grieving. But, truthfully, I'm sure the grief is going to hit when I walk onto that train. Darling, are you sure it's enough to leave Kyle and Lance here?"
"I'm sure. There's no way I'm letting you travel back to Montreal without Tom and Matt. So don't even think about that!"
She sighed, knowing he was right. There had been times when a bevy of reporters and photographers had followed her on her travels.
She only hoped that didn't happen on her return trip home. The last thing she wanted was to subject Nathan and Allie and the people of Hope Valley to something like that!
They sped up enough to meet up with Bill and Allie, and before long, Nathan found himself taking Millicent on his old Rounds along with the four of them, stopping to talk to his various friends throughout the countryside.
All the Citizens of Hope Valley who had come to depend on, and even love, Nathan.
Citizens who truly considered him to be a friend.
It wasn't lost on Nathan that he had also grown very fond of them over the last three years!
"Missing your regular rounds, Nathan," asked Bill, knowing the direction they were headed in and also knowing the answer before it was given.
"You might say that, Bill. These folk are special. How could I not miss seeing them every day? Besides I want them to spend some time with Millicent!"
"Show her off, you mean," teased Bill.
Which earned him a not-so-subtle look of disdain from Nathan.
As they rode up to each farm, Nathan proudly introduced or re-introduced Millicent, as the case might be.
"Why Constable Grant! I mean Chief Inspector! You're a sight for sore eyes!" came the common response.
"This is my Fiancee Millicent Bradford! Forgive me for not dismounting. With my arm healing, I'm under orders to not mount and dismount any more than I have to!"
But it was Millicent who dismounted herself each time, in his place, gathering the farm folk to her in a gracious, heartfelt embrace, making her one of them.
"So very pleased to see you again, and on our own land, too! Somehow, we feel like we already know you, Miss Bradford!"
"How have you been?" asked Nathan.
"We've missed you desperately, Chief Inspector. Now don't get us wrong. Gabe is plenty nice enough, but he's not our Nathan! To have you visit and bring your beautiful Lady for us to spend time with is more than we could ever have hoped for! Now, don't you all be a stranger now, you hear?"
The Farmers and their Families, as well as Nathan, Millicent, Bill, and Allie enjoyed chatting with the people so much, they took the exact same ride during the afternoons of the next two days, on both Sunday and Monday!
With one exception.
After seeing all the Children, Millicent took Allie to the Mercantile after they returned to the livery, where they bought candy treats to take for the next two days, which they stashed in their saddlebags, and happily distributed.
By the end of their three visits, Millicent was indeed Family.
With candy or not, they all adored her!
And she adored them.
Their love and respect for Nathan warmed her soul and made her feel even more a part of them.
Even in her fancy winter riding habit, they described her as down to earth, a beautiful angel, they said.
And they all were thrilled that their Constable, now Chief Inspector, had found her!
They could tell she had no doubts as far as their 'Constable' was concerned, clearly loving him dearly.
It was plain to see, she simply loved him as he was, no matter how dangerous a profession he had chosen, and they respected that.
Nor were there any doubts that their Chief Inspector clearly adored her!
Yes, Millicent had compassion. But she also had grit. Both attributes these country folk deeply appreciated.
Funny, it never occurred to Nathan that Millicent was anything different than what his friends saw. Even though he, better than anyone else, knew Millicent's most unique lifestyle and privileged upbringing. But he, better than anyone else, also knew the shortcomings of having it all, yet not having the basic freedoms that were so fundamental to a normal life. A situation, Millicent had deftly adapted herself to, without compromising her principles.
Nathan also truly knew the real Millicent.
Her beautiful giving, open heart.
And that's what the folk of Hope Valley were seeing firsthand as well…
Nathan wanted to take Millicent out for their remaining meals, but she insisted that she preferred cooking for them.
"Let's compromise, if you let me do the cooking here at home, we can do it together, and I'll give you mini-cooking lessons throughout!"
"Since I'm dealing with a master negotiator here, I think I'm going to have to hone my negotiating skills! But the truth is, I need the cooking lessons, mini or not! So, you're on, Miss Bradford!"
Their cooking together turned out to be as much fun as their riding, and it gave them something new to look forward to doing together as a Couple after their marriage.
She interlaced little cooking tips that Nathan had never thought of before. Simple tips she was sure would elevate his cooking, in flavor and in taste.
Instead of making him feel inept, she made him feel completely confident in the kitchen and even intrigued.
A little adventurous, too, making him willing to experiment!
And he found himself totally enjoying the process of cooking.
For the very first time, it was no longer a chore, but something he was beginning to love doing...
Saturday night was the perfect Family Evening at home, with Millicent offering another cooking lesson or two to Nathan, her sous chef, followed by lots of games.
Just a typical Family Night, with a little romance thrown in, too, if we're being completely honest.
With those two, there was always romance!
Well, maybe we should say a lot of romance, especially since Nathan was feeling better, as pretty much every night was now ending with Nathan and Millicent dancing to music in the little rowhouse living room before they both retired for the night to their separate bedrooms.
They did their best to keep the music soft and low, but unknown to them, Allie and Bill actually looked forward to the far away tumble of tones each night, as they lay in their beds with visions of dancing in their heads!
Their late wonderful Family Evening, on this particular Saturday though, soon transitioned into a beautiful, but still rather cold, Sunday morning.
The early morning sun came out in full force, warming the tiny community as if to honor their special guest with an upbeat brightness!
Yes, there was still snow, but the wind was not quite as chilled, and there were notes of hope for a warmer winter weather ahead!
Nathan, in his three-piece navy suit, was overcome, when he met Millicent, dressed in red, and Allie in a combo of navy and white with touches of red, coming down the staircase of his rowhouse.
There was a catch in his throat, but he finally got his words out.
"You two…look…simply stunning!"
And they did!
As did all three of them together.
Nathan held tightly onto Millicent's hand the entire Service, and Allie sat closely to her Momma on Millicent's other side.
The Family, including Allie, did the sign of the cross at the appropriate parts of the Service, with Nathan noticing several others doing the same.
And yes, the women were all wearing their winter hats!
The couple was barraged by well-wishers at the end of the Service, with everyone anxious to give them their regards.
Elizabeth was there with Charles.
And she noticed the attention, with a slight bit of bitterness, she was doing her very best to quell.
Most of the congregation headed to the Café for their usual Sunday Dinner, but according to their agreement, Nathan and Millicent opted to go home instead.
After they all changed into more comfortable clothes, Allie worked on her last bit of homework from last night, which was reading a new book, while Nathan and Millicent cooked together in the kitchen, with still more lessons.
Allie smiled, as she heard laughter from the kitchen time and again!
Even Bill looked up from reading his paper, with a grin on his face as well!
But suddenly, Bill jumped up from his chair and made his way to the kitchen.
"You two, I'd better get myself to the Café! They're probably real busy about now, and you all seem to have everything under control here!"
And with that, and a rather smug smile, Bill was gone for the afternoon, leaving the Grants to their Sunday meal alone with just the three of them…
Monday came much more quickly than anyone had anticipated or were wanting.
Yet come, it did.
Millicent walked Allie to school with Kyle, as she was worried about Nathan being outside in what had turned out to be another bitterly cold morning, insisting Nathan go back to bed and rest instead.
He resisted but finally realized it was best, so he could be sure to spend the rest of the day at Millicent's side.
By the time Millicent returned home, Nathan was fast asleep.
So, she spent the time finishing her packing, putting away the few things she still had left out, leaving only a change for tonight, her nightgown, robe, and slippers, as well as her traveling clothes for tomorrow.
She sat down on the edge of Allie's bed, feeling a bit forlorn as the inevitability of her departure settled in around her.
She fought the sadness that was engulfing her, but it was overwhelming.
"I'm so very grateful for Nathan, for Allie, and for our Family. But I need you to strengthen me and make me strong because I can't bear the thought of leaving them. I truly can't! Help me, Dear God. Please help me do this!"
She laid down on the bed, and before long tears came, and like a little girl who couldn't help herself, she cried herself softly to sleep.
A little later, Nathan finally awoke in his bed across the hall, and something instantly told him she needed him.
He first knocked on the door, but there was no answer.
He opened the door the slightest crack, and there she lay in her clothes hugging a pillow to her waist.
His heart broke, and he did the only thing he could think to do.
He crept in silently and sat down on the chair beside her, reaching for her hand.
She never wakened, but she took his hand in her sleep, and although unknown to her, her whimpering stopped.
The wonder of that hit Nathan profoundly.
Was this separation the wrong thing?
No, it simply had to be. They were adults. They would get through this. And they would help Allie through it, too.
It was only for a little over a month.
But why did he feel so sick inside?
He held her hand without moving for the next half hour when she suddenly opened her eyes.
"Nathan!"
"I'm sorry, Mil. I didn't mean to intrude, but you were crying in your sleep…"
She got up and wrapped her arms around him.
"Don't apologize. You could never intrude! Thank you, Nathan."
He pulled her to his lap, although he knew he probably should leave instead.
But he had to kiss her once, just once before they came back down to earth.
His kiss warmed her, and in some strange way gave her some of the strength she had asked for before falling asleep.
But they shouldn't be here, not like this.
So, without saying a word, he grabbed her hand and led her from Allie's room, down the stairs, into the living room, and onto the settee.
There they kissed till they could kiss no more, and then they simply held each other, simply enjoying each others' company.
There were no words, yet both knew they needed to talk.
But it was just too painful.
They could only express their love.
"I love you, Millicent, with all my heart."
"I know you do, and know that I love you with all of mine, too. Why is this so hard?"
"I don't know, but I do know one thing. We're going riding!"
It was an abrupt switch, but it was the perfect solution to their melancholy.
And so, on this, their last full day together, they did the one thing most special to both of them.
Riding their faithful steeds, going on 'rounds' together…
Thankfully, the day had gotten warm enough for their riding and for them both to pick Allie up from school.
"How long do you think Allie is going to allow us to come to get her, Love?"
"Not at all sure, Mil. That's why I relish each day I get to do this. Why can't she just stay my Little Girl?"
"Well, Darling, I think you have no worries there. Our 'Little Girl' is growing up, but something tells me no matter how big she gets, in her heart, as well as yours, she will always be her Daddy's Little Girl!"
Nathan smiled at her through bleary eyes.
"You always know exactly what I need to hear. Will you please keep telling me that every single day?"
Millicent chuckled as she reached to kiss his cheek.
"If that's what it takes, my Darling, absolutely!"
The outdoor air seemed to do Nathan good, after all his pent-up days inside.
They ran into Charles, who normally took his afternoon walk alone, regularly at this same time each day. But today, Elizabeth had joined him and for once, she made a point to stop and chat with Millicent.
"Millicent, lovely to see you!"
"Likewise, Elizabeth. You're looking wonderful!"
Not sure of her change of heart and motive, whether genuine or not, both Nathan and Millicent truly appreciated her efforts, choosing to believe the best.
The two continued on, relishing this time with each other, walking arm in arm to retrieve their Daughter, allowing nothing to dissuade their positive spirits, despite their inevitable parting that kept looming ever closer.
It meant the world to them that they could let their Daughter know just how important she was to them, as well as for their Daughter to finally have not one but two Parents to come for her!
As soon as they arrived at the school grounds, Allie couldn't help but show her Family off to Mrs. Nelson and all her Friends.
Yet, they both noticed Allie seemed a bit off.
"Ah, that explains it," Millicent whispered to Nathan. "Robert's paying a bit of innocent attention to the older girls."
"I know he cares for Allie, but seems he also has a huge crush on my Fiancee, too, as well as every other girl in the school," moaned Nathan, which brought a little laugh from Millicent, as Robert walked up to greet them both as though they were already Family.
A fact, Nathan did not miss, underneath his cordial, but still reserved, demeanor.
As Nathan walked away with Robert to speak with Mrs. Nelson, Allie drew closer to Millicent.
"You know, Allie, the freer you let a boy feel, if he really cares for you, he will always come back to you. But it's a funny thing, hanging on to them too tightly has the opposite effect. That's when they tend to run!" suggested Millicent in a very low voice that only her Daughter could hear.
"Are you saying it's better to share Robert, Momma?"
"Exactly, Angel! Let Robert be Robert. Just relax and enjoy your own friends too! You know, it's a good thing for both of you to have lots of friends."
"Is that because we're young?"
"Not necessarily. It's good to have lots of friends at every age! That doesn't make a special friendship less important, or less valid. Do you understand what I'm trying to say?"
"I think so. But, it's hard, isn't it?"
"Yes, Sweetie, sometimes doing the right thing is very hard, indeed. Especially when it comes to matters of the heart!"
Somehow, Allie finally had a real smile on her face!
She finally had a Mother who was looking out for her, one she could confide in, and one who understood her.
Millicent couldn't help but smile, too.
For she had been absolutely determined that her Daughter get her confidence back before she left, something she had been afraid was waning.
Finally, 'Mission accomplished…'
After dropping Allie off at Emily's, Millicent wanted to see their Land one last time.
And since Nathan still couldn't drive, Tom offered to do the honors, accompanied by Matt.
Allie had planned to meet Emily for a quick errand in town, which Kyle and Lance were going to accompany them on.
As the Couple reached what was now known as The Grant Land, Millicent noticed Nathan was smiling ear to ear!
This land was important to him.
And because of that, it was important to her.
Without even thinking, Nathan led Millicent to the river's edge, back to the large flat rock where they had already had a most difficult discussion, once before.
Unfortunately, this evening, the words were just as difficult.
Perhaps even more so, as Millicent was boarding the train for Montreal at noon tomorrow.
The time they had dreaded most was finally here upon them.
Faith had cleared Nathan except for his rehab, and assured a hesitant Millicent, she would personally oversee his continued healing.
While at the same time, Millicent had pressing Legal Cases back in Montreal, as well as a myriad of Wedding Issues to make decisions on, and a plethora of Ranch Renovation Problems to contend with.
And then, of course, there was Auntie Luciana! Not to even mention overseeing the necessary transitions for Essie and Hendrix. Add the Charity Foundation Restructuring to the list, and Millicent was going to more than have her hands full!
As the Couple walked arm in arm to their spot on the large flat rock, Nathan unfolded a thick blanket across a log that was laying along the rock.
He then helped Millicent to sit down, where he joined her, enfolding her into his good arm, taking her hand with his other hand and caressing it gently.
Millicent sighed and laid her head on his good shoulder.
They first sat still, simply watching the cold water nearly surrounding them, coursing its way against the rock, causing splashes that were cascading about them.
It was a beautiful spot, a powerful place of magnificent strength.
And it belonged to them alone.
Nathan's voice was strong and clear above the rush of the water, as he pensively spoke the stoic, long-ago meager words of Shakespeare's Romeo.
"I would I were thy bird…" (*50)
Millicent instantly recognized the words of Juliet, for their tutors had taught them the Classic together.
"Sweet, so would I:
Yet I should kill thee with much cherishing.
Parting is such sweet sorrow,
That I shall say goodnight till it be morrow." (*51)
"Mil, remember the pure joy we experienced when I came to Montreal and met you at the Train Station?"
She nodded with tears in her eyes.
"I've never experienced such joy, Nate! Never before."
"Me neither. You know, the inner gladness and pleasure of love that people experience as lovers when they meet and part, is something I think necessary for true love to exist. To meet again is simply joy and sorrow together. And that's what we're experiencing now. But I know this, our love is transcendent. Our love transcends all things, all normal experiences, and all expectations. It transcends sorrow. It transcends this. Our love will take this sorrow at our parting and change itself into sweetness and great joy when we meet again. It's all interrelated. It's all one entity. It's love. Can we have joy without the sorrow? I think not, and somehow, as difficult as this parting is, it makes me know our love is true and deep within my being, within your being."
She nodded, knowing this Man, normally of few words had even more to say.
He spoke slowly, decisively without hesitation, as he was speaking from his heart.
"To fall in love with you, Millicent Bradford, has been the greatest gift of my life. The greatest honor of my life. To feel sorrow when we part tells me that our love is a great, rich, very deep, and everlasting love. Every moment of every day till we are together again, I will anticipate our next meeting, and hence the pure joy we will both feel, knowing you and I shall soon be married, one to the other. Never to be parted."
She wrapped her arms around his chest, as he held her tightly, both listlessly looking over the water, which was glistening with dancing, brilliant colors of all shades from the setting sun above them.
"You, Nathan Grant, are my greatest gift in this world. My greatest honor is to be your Wife. I know we are doing the right thing in parting, but in all honesty, my heart is already exploding into a million pieces at the thought of leaving you."
"Mine is too, but I give you my word, Mil, we are going to get through this. I will pray constantly for you as you make all the decisions that are facing you. The decisions you are making for us. Just know that I so appreciate your willingness to literally turn your life upside down for Allie and me. And I promise you, we will make all this up to you."
"You don't have to, Nathan. It's the right thing for me to do. I'm doing it happily, without any regret."
"Just as us incorporating Montreal into our lives is also the right thing to do. And we're doing that happily too, without any regret. Don't forget that part either. You know, my Darling, there is nothing I wouldn't do for you. And I want you to know, although it may feel like you're leaving everything in Montreal, it's only temporary. As you spend time there, know that Allie and I will also be a part of your life there, just as you are a part of our lives here. Montreal will also be our home, along with Hope Valley."
"I know. Just pray that I know what is best to do, in transitioning everything to our new union. But you need to know, there won't be a moment that my heart is not here in Hope Valley with you and Allie."
"We know that, and we need you to know it's the same for us. Our hearts will be with you every single moment in Montreal while we are apart."
"Nathan, promise me something."
"Anything, Love."
"Promise me you'll stay busy while I'm gone. Busy and happy! And make sure Allie stays busy and happy, too! I'm so sorry I can't be here for her Dance, but we did get her dress that day in Union City. Can you be sure and have Rosemary help her with her hair and dress? I've already asked her and she's happy to do it. And will you please have Allie's photo made for me?"
"Consider it done."
He wanted desperately to ask her something else, something they had already discussed, and even reconciled, although neither had liked the obvious conclusion they had been forced to come to.
Given everything that she had to do, it was going to be almost impossible for her to attend the Mountie Ball, so it simply wasn't fair of him to bring it up again.
It would only hurt her that she couldn't say yes!
And he was not about to add any more hurt to her already aching heart.
Instead, he spoke intimately, the feelings of his heart.
"The reason for my being is you, my Darling! It's you. You are my past, my present, my future. And I am so very blessed."
He lowered his eyes from her gorgeous emerald green eyes to her perfect, soft rosy bow-shaped lips, closing his eyes and memorizing each feature of them, as he tilted his head just so, while softly kissing her with the wind whipping about them.
But his softness transitioned deeper and deeper, transporting them both to that perfect place that existed for them alone.
A place of strength one for the other.
When they could breathe no more, their lips parted but stayed touching, forehead to forehead, hands intertwined and gently caressing each others' locks of hair.
His low hoarse voice came out barely a whisper.
"You, my Darling, are my everything."
She answered breathlessly for only him to hear.
"And you are mine."
Finally, as the sun set completely, only a glow was left for them to make their way back to the others, moving as one, a committed, fulfilled unit…
After their Monday Night Dinner, they were all trying hard to concentrate on the game Allie had chosen, but knowing this was Millicent's last night in Hope Valley, everyone was having trouble doing so.
"Momma, I can't concentrate on this old game!"
"Come here, Sweetheart!"
She looked like she was about to cry, but it was her Momma she wanted, she needed!
Millicent wrapped her in her arms, drawing her close.
Nathan and Bill glanced at each other, unsure as to whether they should leave or stay, but Nathan didn't have the heart to leave Millicent for a second, and so they quietly observed.
"Allie, I love you so much. My Mother's heart stays right here within yours. Always. And you know what? You are my Daughter, so yours stays right here within mine. Always. You know, I need you to do me a favor…"
"Wh…wh…what?" muttered Allie, with tears flowing down her cheeks.
"I need you to be brave and take good care of your Father and Uncle Bill for me. Not to mention Cookie and Serena. I know it's a lot to ask, but you're the Lady of the house. If you can do that for me, I promise you before you know it, you and your Father will be meeting me in Montreal for our Wedding! And Uncle Bill will be close behind!"
Allie took in several shallow breaths.
"It's just that I'll miss you, Momma!"
"I'll miss you too, so very much, Angel! I truly wish I didn't have to leave. We've had so much fun together, and we're going to have even more fun when you get to Montreal. I can't wait to introduce you to everyone I know! And there's so much for us to do there. You know, every time, you miss me, just touch your beautiful necklace! And you'll know both of your Mothers are with you. Also, there's a surprise for you in your dresser. I left you one of my nightgowns you can wear if you like."
"The pink lacey one I love?"
Millicent smiled.
"Yes, the pink lacy one you love. It's yours, Sweetheart! I know it will be a bit long on you, but I got you a long pink ribbon at the Mercantile, which you can use as a belt, so you can gather the nightgown up and not trip on it! That way, you can keep letting it out as you get taller!"
"Thank you, Momma! I'll be really careful with it!"
"Allie," spoke her Father, softly. "I talked to Mrs. Nelson, and she said you could miss school tomorrow so you can say a proper goodbye to your Momma! That will also give us the chance to spend the rest of the day together. What do you say? Isn't that awfully nice of her?"
"Yes, Sir! Thank you, Dad! I'll thank her too, but I couldn't miss seeing Momma off on the train, no matter what! I just couldn't!"
"And neither could I!" agreed her Uncle Bill.
'And neither can half the town of Hope Valley," thought Bill, as many had already asked him when Millicent's train was departing.
They were clearly coming to see Millicent off, although unknown to Nathan and Millicent.
And yes, the Judge may have very proudly let her departure time slip a time or two…
Tuesday morning had broken, and Millicent had bathed and dressed in her travel attire.
As usual, she looked stunning, dressed in the latest style, with a bold slim red and gray plaid skirt and long gray tweed jacket trimmed in the same red and gray plaid at the collar and cuffs. She wore a white high-collared lacy blouse. There was also a white muff and gray felt floppy hat trimmed in white feathery fur waiting for her downstairs.
This morning Nathan, Allie, and Bill had insisted on fixing breakfast, so she used the rest of her time to finish packing the few remaining items that were still out.
As she came to her beautiful large white silk scarf, the one she always wore under her now blood-stained white fur, she laid it aside with the gift she had for Nathan, moving on to her toiletries, placing them in her case one by one.
But when she came to her bottle of perfume, she laid it aside too, strangely unable to pack both items.
Without understanding specifically why, except that she was leaving pieces of her with him, she carried the two items along with her gift into Nathan's bedroom.
There she kissed the scarf and laid it alongside her bottle of perfume, which she had placed atop her gift, leaving all three items there on his nightstand…
Breakfast was somber despite everyone's attempts to make it lighter.
There weren't many words.
Just Nathan leading in a Prayer that was earnest, but broken.
"The meal is delicious," thanked Millicent.
And it was, though no one seemed to have an appetite.
After laborious eating by all, Millicent noticed as Nathan appeared to be overcome.
He soon stood and excused himself.
"Just for a moment," he promised.
He climbed the staircase, feeling like a caged animal, but he was on a mission.
He walked to his room, going straight to his wardrobe, where he thumbed through his clothes, till his hand reached his old uniform.
It wasn't as fancy as his new uniforms, but it meant everything to him, as it reflected his years and commitment as a Constable.
The Commissioner had refused to accept them back, telling him to just keep them with a knowing wink.
This particular Serge was the one he had worn the most often, the one that had served him well from Mission to Mission.
His standby.
Oh, the stories it could tell!
He lifted the hangar and then found his favorite old Stetson.
He didn't really know why he was doing this.
He only knew that as important as this uniform was to him, there was only one person he could ever possibly entrust it to.
And that's exactly what he was going to do.
He placed his old worn Campaign Hat in the box it had come in. It was the first he had ever been issued. Then he grabbed the rest of the uniform, carrying it to where Millicent's luggage lay.
As an afterthought, he grabbed his Cologne. The outdoorsy, woodsy scent that defined him.
He walked across the hall with all of it, lifting the lid of Millicent's largest trunk, placing his uniform there, folding it precisely as he had been taught to do, so that it would be wrinkle-free.
He placed his hand on the finished packed Serge.
She would keep it for him in Montreal, and she would have a physical piece of him there.
Then he hid his hatbox in among those of Millicent's and found her Cosmetics case, where he carefully placed his Cologne.
He got up and softly closed the door behind him, breathing a sigh of relief, somehow feeling just a bit lighter…
Bill hugged Millicent once more after having said his sweet goodbye and stepped outside with Allie, taking her to his office to give Nathan and Millicent just a few moments alone before they all met at the Train Station.
Millicent's luggage had already been taken there, along with Tom's and Matt's luggage.
Both Gentlemen, the night before, had taken the time to visit the women they held most dear in Hope Valley.
Tom had had dinner with Cat, known to him now only as Katharynna, and he had even gotten brave enough to ask her to come to Montreal and be his guest for the Grant Wedding.
Without knowing it, Matt had offered the exact same invitation to Faith, and both men were elated that their invitations had been joyfully accepted!
The thought of seeing their Ladies in Montreal for the big event, made their parting much less sad, as both realized these two women were beginning to mean a lot to each of them.
Inside, all Nathan could do was hold Millicent.
"Since you couldn't hook this when you gave it to me, will you latch this for me, now?" asked Millicent, handing Nathan the necklace he had given her.
"It's my honor."
He stood behind her and placed the charm in front of her, clasping the long double chain securely together in the back.
Then he placed his lips on her neck, grazing the length of it, feeling dizzy from the touch of her skin.
Her hand automatically reached up, wandering through his hair and lingering there, holding him as close to her as possible.
She thought she might lose her consciousness at the touch of his oh-so-warm lips.
They turned to each other, joining both of their lips in a deeply romantic, deeply passionate kiss, that held nothing back.
Their hands tenderly found each other's necks, as the touches of their flesh burned into each other's being, both unable to speak, only able to mesh their lips and themselves to each other.
Each held the other tightly, till the Clock struck half-past eleven and both knew it was time to go.
Nathan tore himself apart from her to walk to his desk, where he grabbed the bouquet of red roses he had ordered for her, as well as a small neatly wrapped package.
"Oh, Nathan, they're beautiful! And so many!"
"Your roses are red instead of white, my Love, because red means romance, love, beauty, and courage. Be of strong courage, my Darling. And know we are still one. The gift is a collection of, my favorite love poems: romantic and religious ones by Rumi (*52), sonnets by Shakespeare (*53), as well as the sweeping passions of Lord Byron (*54). As you read them, know I am speaking them to you, my Love, each and every beautiful word…"
As the Couple reached the Train Depot, both were overcome as they stopped dead in their tracks, pausing to look at each other in wonder, totally unprepared for the surprise awaiting them!
Both swallowed hard and continued on to Allie.
The entire platform was covered in a crowd of people, all there to see Millicent off!
In fact, totally unknown to them, most of Hope Valley had come out to honor the Couple and say goodbye to Millicent!
Allie ran to her Parents as soon as she saw them, and offered her Momma a single red rose, which Millicent lovingly added to Nathan's huge bouquet, while she tenderly knelt and wrapped her Daughter into her arms.
The crowd began encroaching upon the three, all wanting to hug Millicent and wish her well.
She was her gracious self, obliging them as best she could while looking longingly at Nathan and Allie, but she refused to move from her Family, as she accepted the town folks' goodbyes and well wishes.
Suddenly, in the fervor of all the activity, a shout ran out and there was a flurry of bright flashbulbs shoving their way to capture Nathan's, Millicent's, and Allie's faces!
Infuriated, but cold as ice, without even thinking, Nathan instantly reached out to grab the nearest camera, as Tom and Matt quickly wrestled the other two remaining away from the cameramen holding them.
Allie was wide-eyed and shocked, having never seen anything like this before, much less for it to be her Family these photographers seemed to be after!
Millicent was angry and horrified that her Daughter and the people of Hope Valley had to be subjected to this, devastated that it was all her fault!
Tom quickly took the camera from Nathan and placed it behind him along with the others for safekeeping.
"Hey, those are our cameras!" shouted one of the photographers Millicent recognized as being from Montreal. "And they're expensive too!"
"But these are not authorized photos. I'm Chief Inspector Nathan Grant, and I strongly suggest you and your colleagues reboard your train. The cameras without their film will be released in Montreal to your superiors along with a formal complaint and a proven certificate verifying lack of authorization, with my signature on it, in my official capacity. On a personal level, charges of invading our personal privacy will be leveraged as well. You and your superiors will be discussing this matter with our Attorneys in Court. You can count on it."
Nathan's voice was cold, firm, and stoic. There was to be no debate. He meant what he had said and wasn't about to waiver.
As far as he was concerned, these men were lucky they were getting off this easily.
At that point, Bill, Gabe, and Matt walked up to the intruders, insistently and forcefully escorting each of the unhappy photographers and reporters back into their Passenger Car with one on each arm, all without their precious cameras and notebooks, as Tom had also collected them.
"I'm so sorry, Nathan. I'm so sorry, Allie."
"Momma, it's okay. We're alright. Are you alright?"
"Yes, Sweetheart, I'm alright."
Allie nodded.
"Don't worry, Darling, I'll explain everything to her when we get home. Are you okay? This is not your fault. Together, remember? We are a Family."
She threw her arms around Nathan's neck.
"I don't deserve either of you! I love you both so much!"
The train whistle blew, and the Conductor came out to assist Millicent, but she didn't even see him.
She kissed and embraced her Daughter once more, stroking her hair, not wanting to leave at all.
"I love you, my Angel!" and there were tears in both their eyes. "You take care of your Father, and be happy, Allie! We'll speak every night!"
Then Nathan reached for her and did the same, kissing her, holding her, as though no one was there, hating to let her go, not at all sure he could.
On automatic pilot, he numbly walked to the platform with her and helped her up. Then hoisted himself up behind her, for one last kiss and embrace.
"I love you, Millicent Bradford. You are my world and in no time at all, I will be your Husband and by your side forever."
"And I will be your Wife," she whispered through her tears. "I love you, my Darling!"
"Goodbye, for now, my Love. Only for now! My love and my strength go with you, my Darling, always!"
His eyes bore into hers, willing her to manage without falling apart, giving her his strength to add to her own.
She was his only concern in this moment.
He had to get her through this departure, then he would help Allie.
He held her hand as he jumped back down to the platform until he could hold it no more, wincing, full of pain as it slipped away.
Resolute yet broken, she stood there alone, with the Conductor, Tom, and Matt in the shadows behind her, as the loud whistle blew and the Train pulled out from the Station, with all of Hope Valley watching.
But with Millicent only seeing her Nathan and her Allie through her tears.
And with Nathan and Allie only seeing her through theirs.
"Nathan…" called Elizabeth, as she stepped toward them.
"Not now, Elizabeth! Not now," and Nathan wrapped his arms around a tearful Allie, shielding her, both wrapped in their singular grief, as they watched the train disappear with the woman they love…
(*50) The Play of Romeo and Juliet, Act Two, Scene Two, William Shakespeare, 1596, Public Domain
(*51) The Play of Romeo and Juliet, Act Two, Scene Two, William Shakespeare, 1596, Public Domain
(*52) Rumi, Died December 17th, 1273, Works in Public Domain
(*53) William Shakespeare, Died April 23, 1616, Works in Public Domain
(*54) Lord Byron (Baron Byron), Died April 19, 1824, Works in Public Domain
