Chapter 116: The Grant Engagement Party

"Sir, Miss Allie said I should come check on you."

"She did, did she? That daughter of mine knows I couldn't tie a bow tie if my life depended on it. She declares up and down that I joined the Mounties just so I wouldn't have to wear a tie!"

"Smart daughter, you have, Sir! Let me see what I can do."

It wasn't a question, because both men knew if a tie was going to be worn, either Hendrix or Millicent was going to have to do it!

"There we go, Son!"

"Any words of encouragement, Hendrix?"

"Well, I'm glad it's you and not me!"

"Hendrix! That's cruel," chuckled Nathan.

"The truth sometimes hurts, Sir…"


"Momma, you look like a gold angel!"

"Thank you, Love!"

"Dad's going to pass out!"

"I hope not!"

"That's okay, Momma, I'll catch him! But, may I wear your gown someday?"

"You most certainly may! We'll be sure and save this one back just for you!"

"Miss, try these earrings. If you refuse to wear a necklace, you at least need statement earrings. Those you have on are much too small!"

Millicent quickly changed her diamond stud earrings into the large diamond drop earrings Estella was insisting upon.

"Here, does this look better?"

"Perfect," pronounced Estella and Allie in unison.

"Should I change my hair?"

"Dad loves it in a French…"

"French Twist, Child!" filled in Essie.

"But Dad loves it anyway," added Allie, shrugging her shoulders.

"Well, you two aren't any help!"

"It's perfect, Miss. You look like a Fairy Tale Princess!"

"You really do, Momma!"

"Now we need to get you dressed, Sweetheart!"

"I have the red plaid taffeta right here, Miss Allison Rose! Quick, let's get you out of that robe!"

"Momma, look my plaid has gold running through it!"

"Oh, Allie, that's going to look so pretty on you!"

"It's means we match, Momma!"

"It most certainly does! I think Hendrix better hold your Dad up," teased Millicent.

"Momma, that's a given, but will I have to stay with the grown-ups very long?"

"Only long enough to meet everyone in the receiving line!"

Allie sighed heavily, as her Auntie Essie glanced on inquiringly.

"Okay, I guess I can manage that!"

Then the girls all broke out laughing, Allie loudest of all…


At the bottom of the Grand Staircase, Nathan nervously paced.

"But Hendrix, most of these people I've never met, plus they're the crème de la crème of Montreal Society. How can I not be nervous?"

"Simple! Out of all the distinguished men in Montreal as well as all of Canada and beyond, Miss Millicent chose you! All of those people put together don't mean a fourth as much as you do!"

"That just might work, Hendrix!"

"Besides, they are just people like you and me. Be yourself and you'll never go wrong, Sir!"

Nathan breathed a huge sigh of relief.

"Thank you, Hendrix. I'll remember that!"

"Sir…" directed Hendrix.

Nathan turned to look up the staircase.

There was Millicent and Allie descending the steps together, both looking stunning for tonight's party.

Allie looked beautiful, wearing a red plaid taffeta dress with a high-waisted wide red satin sash; her skirt, fell toward the floor, midi length in light gathers all the way around. She looked adorable, wearing gold tights and gold leather ballerina slippers.

Her hair was pulled back in a low pony tail, and gathered with a wide red satin ribbon.

Millicent was an absolute vision surrounded in gold!

She wore an ethereal, gossamer strapless gown, in golden chiffon. The low bodice was pulled in tight. The skirt's layered fabric fell in soft gathers to the floor. The layers were somewhat translucent, and it was as though one could see stars peeking out from the many hidden layers underneath. Double rows of ruffled organza fell down the length of the skirt and around her waist in a slightly darker color.

That same slightly darker color of organza encircled her arms, draped low at her elbows, giving the illusion of a wrap.

Nathan addressed his daughter first, as Millicent stood proudly behind her, still on the stairs.

"You look so beautiful, Allie. Just beautiful!"

"Thanks, Dad! I feel so pretty in this! Gramma and Grandmama got it for me."

"It's very pretty, Allie! You're so pretty, so lovely," and he reached up to kiss his daughter's cheek, and took her hand to help her down the remaining steps.

Then he reached for Millicent, and there were simply no words.

It took him a moment before he could speak, as she simply caressed his hair.

"You are a golden angel, my Darling. Absolute perfection," he whispered.

"Look, Dad, I have gold in my plaid that matches Momma!"

"Later," he whispered to Millicent, then he turned to speak to Allie.

"I see, Allie. You both will be the two most beautiful Ladies there! Shall we go, Girls?"

He proudly took both their arms, as Hendrix held Estella in his arms, who had slipped down after them.

The couple walked the soon-to-be Grants to the front door.

"Hendrix and I will get dressed and be there in no time!" explained Estella. "The three of you together look like a beautiful portrait come to life!"

"Just relax and enjoy your Engagement Party! That doesn't come along but once in a lifetime, so again, this is all for you. You three are the guests of honor, relax and enjoy every single moment," added Hendrix as encouragement.

"Wise words. Thank you, Hendrix! That's exactly what we plan to do. We're simply going to enjoy the night together and meet as many people as we can. See you there in a bit!"

"Bye, Auntie Essie, bye Uncle Hendrix! See you at our Engagement party!"

"Goodbye, Sweet Girl!" smiled Estella.

And off the family went to their waiting limousine.

"What would this house have ever done without that precious Child, Dear Estella?"

"I can't even think about it, Hendrix! I think in some strange way, Miss Allie came to bring us all to life. How could she not? She's our precious gift from our beloved Miss Colleen. It' s like having a piece of our sweet girl back again..."


Allie insisted on sitting up front with her Uncle Albert, which left Nathan a chance to talk with his fiancée.

"Baby, what's wrong?" asked Millicent.

"Nothing, Babe! Everything is perfect. It's just that I'm a little worried. What if I don't measure up?"

"Measure up? Darling, they are the ones who could never possibly measure up to you. Because no one can. It's that simple. Nate, I know these people and deep down behind all their facades, they have good hearts. Father wouldn't have them as his guests at all if they didn't. But, I fell in love with you, Nathan, not anyone else. I fell in love with you and only you!"

"Even if I say the wrong thing, Mil? What if I don't know how to respond?"

"You could never say the wrong thing my Darling, because you speak your truth. That's the best anyone can do, although most can't even manage that! And if you don't feel like responding to something, don't. I know you. You could never intentionally hurt a person. And you could never embarrass me."

She scooted over closer to him.

"I love you, Nathan Alexander Grant, only you. And I have from the moment I met you!"

"I love you, too, Darling, but, I'll never deserve you!"

"My Love, God has given us to each other. And God doesn't make mistakes. You deserve me just as much as I deserve you! Don't ever forget that!"

He nodded, though still with a bit of hesitation, but with his lips falling onto hers at once with deep passion.

"You are my lifeline, my everything!"

"I know tonight's hard, Love, because you haven't met all these people yet, and you feel like you're being bombarded. But may I promise you one thing?"

"What's that, Babe?"

"You're coming home tonight having added a lot more friends to your life. Friends who will never let you down, once they know you, my Darling."

Nathan's worried edge suddenly dissolved into nothing but love.

"I'm so thankful God has given me, not only the most beautiful woman in the world, but the wisest one too."

"I'll never leave your side tonight, and that's a promise," she cooed so seriously, wrapping her hand around his neck.

"That's all I need to know, Miss Bradford," he affirmed flashing his crooked grin.

It was then that their lips met in the sweetest kiss of promise and solidarity…


As Albert brought their limousine through the gate of the Bradford Estate, Allie was as excited as could be, while Millicent and Nathan were tightly holding hands, leaning on each other emotionally.

This was a most important night, the night to publicly celebrate their Engagement!

Huge flickering gas lights lined both sides of the long drive leading to a home ablaze with welcoming warmth eluding every single mullioned window.

"Ready, Darling?" asked Millicent with such love and hope in her eyes.

"Ready, Darling!" answered Nathan, without any hesitation. "You look more beautiful than I could have ever possibly imagined!"

"And you look more handsome than any Prince Charming I've ever imagined!"

As Nathan helped her out of their car, both looked at the other with such love and adoration, that their lips met longingly in the most fulminant of kisses.

Albert cleared his throat while holding Allie's hand, knowing that guests would be watching from their waiting limousines.

Nathan chuckled and Millicent giggled.

"Well, after all, it is our night! Right, Albert?"

"Absolutely, Miss. You three have a most wonderful celebration!"

"Are you ready, Allie?" winked her Dad.

"Ready, Dad!" and Allie reached up to kiss her Uncle Albert goodnight, then happily took each of her parents' hands...


Just inside the Main Entrance with the Grand Entry lit overhead by the row of magnificent chandeliers whose lights were sparkling and dancing all over the place, the evening had already fully come alive.

Golden twinkling lights emanated from each gorgeous tree trimmed in red and gold.

And as if that wasn't enough, all that light was supplemented by flickering candle light spread heavily throughout the entry and hall, highlighting all the elegant Christmas décor in the most magical way.

The hall was alive with its splendored trees, garlands, and wreaths leaving not only Holiday excitement in the air, but also the most special excitement of a couple enmeshing their lives together in love, and in this special case a family doing the same!

There was much to be celebrated on this special night.

"Arch and Sophia will stand by Edward and me, so that we can introduce them. Then Millicent, you will stand by Arch, and introduce Nathan to everyone. Margaret, you stand on the other side of Nathan, followed by Richard, then Pippa and William. Auntie Luciana isn't up to standing in the receiving line, so she will sit at the entrance and receive our guests in the Dining Room. After Dinner, we will move into the Ballroom for dancing! Any questions or suggestions," asked Victoria.

"Where should I stand, Grandmama?"

"Oh, dear Allie, you're the star! You get a choice. You may stand with us grandparents or with your own parents. Whichever you prefer."

Allie thought a moment.

"Momma?"

"Either place is fine, Angel. Everyone will know you're our daughter either way."

"Well, if you put it that way, I guess if I stand with my grandparents, I'll be up front and can get it over with quicker!"

Everyone chuckled.

"Told you my girl is smart," bragged Edward. "No one loves being in these lineups!"

"But Momma and Dad, I'll come to say goodbye before I go to my own party!"

"That would be lovely, Allie," smiled her Momma.

"That settles it. As Essie would say, Miss Allison Rose is placed," announced her Dad.

"Dad! Only Auntie Essie gets to say that!"

"So sorry, Sweetheart. That she does! Allie, you have fun at your party after the receiving line ends."

"Thanks, Dad. I can't wait!"

Nathan kissed Allie's cheek, then continued.

"Everything for the evening sounds wonderful. Millicent and I want to thank you and Edward from the depths of our hearts for throwing us such a wonderful Engagement Party. Just knowing that we get to dance together after Dinner, makes everything lighter with something wonderful to look forward to," smiled Nathan. "But if Millicent will allow me, the first dance of the evening is with you Victoria, and the second is with Mother."

"I would be honored, Nathan," smiled Victoria, truly delighted.

"Lovely, Son! You'll have to show my what you've got, though," chuckled Sophia.

"My mother, always the dance instructor!" he winked.

He then kissed his soon-to-be mother-in-law on the cheek, then did the same with his own mother.

Victoria might not be an official mother yet, but there was already a lot of love between the two from Nathan's childhood.

All those years ago, Victoria had taken him under her wing and shared her Cree language as well as her tribe's many unique folk stories.

He would sit for hours, listening to her, marveling at her words, memorizing them.

And now, she was soon to be his second mother. He couldn't have chosen one he loved more. She was a spitfire, although now a refined one, someone you wanted in your corner always.

Tonight, her face wasn't drawn, and she showed no signs of grief, yet Nathan knew the grief resided in her heart always, even during this wonderful family celebration.

Part of him was terrified at what he might find bringing this case back to life, but surely closure of any sort would be better for the Bradfords than not knowing what happened to their first-born child.

Little did Edward and Victoria know, but forces, under Nathan's direction, with the Commissioner's blessing, were already working feverishly on their firstborn's cold case.

When he returned to Hope Valley from his honeymoon, the time not spent training his new Recruits would be spent pouring over this case from so long ago that had caused such pain to this family he loved.

Then of course, there was the release of the kidnappers to consider as well.

"I think the first couple has reached the Portico! Places everyone. Now just relax and enjoy the evening," instructed Edward. "What a marvelous celebration this is…"


One elegant couple after the other passed through the receiving line, all excited to meet the Grants, Allie, and the Guests of Honor, the soon-to-be Bride and Groom.

Nathan was relieved to see at least they weren't bringing gifts. Or so he thought!

He was surprised at how nice these people appeared to be, and even more surprised at how easy they were to talk to.

Shockingly upon introductions, each guest seemed to find some common ground to speak about.

And that fact was much appreciated by both Nathan and Millicent.

"This is my lovely wife, Jewel Heatherton and I am Georges. We are delighted to be attending your Wedding, and are looking forward to getting to know you after your Honeymoon."

"Looking forward to it, although there may be a lag in time, as we'll be returning to Hope Valley for my daughter to finish her school year. Millicent insisted that it would be best for her."

"Very wise of her. We run an Equestrian Center and could sure use someone with your expertise when you do come back to Montreal! Have you always been around horses?"

"Yes, I was raised on a Horse Ranch. I think they put me on a horse as a baby, and knowing my father, I'm sure of it!"

The two men chuckled and shook hands.

"You and your daughter are welcome to visit the Equestrian Center any time. Millicent comes whenever she gets a chance. Look forward to riding with you!"

The line was long, but Nathan likened it to the receiving lines at the Mountie Balls, as well as at Mountie Headquarters.

Surprisingly, this wasn't as foreign to him as he had expected.

And Millicent was a pro, watchful of his every situation, stepping in with a witty story or explanation when needed.

Most of all, each and every person they met could feel the couple's love.

And what a striking couple they made!

Everyone appeared to be enchanted with the golden couple, wishing to befriend them.

Finally, exhausted after greeting hundreds of guests, the last of the line made their way through.

"Momma, Dad that was so much fun! I have a ton of new friends, and a lot of them have kids just like me!"

"That's wonderful, Sweetheart!"

"I'm glad you enjoyed meeting everyone, Allie. Are you ready to go to your own party now," asked her Dad.

"Yes, Sir! May I, please?"

"Absolutely! After kisses," he reminded her.

Allie kissed her Momma, and her Dad.

"Have fun, Allie," reminded her Momma.

"Jackson and Maggie are waiting for you at the top of the stairs," pointed Nathan.

"Yay! Bye!"

"And off she goes! She's so special, Nathan. I love that she's never intimidated by anything," mused Millicent.

"I can't believe it, but it's like she belongs here."

"Because she does, Darling. This is her home now too, just as it's yours…"


Nathan and Millicent met and kissed Auntie Luciana (both cheeks, of course) at the entrance of the Dining Room, where an identical second long table had been brought in to hold all the Bradford Guests.

"Help me up, Son!" she ordered. "I've greeted every single person but you two!"

"Here, Auntie Luciana, take my arm, and you, Darling, take this one."

"What a soiree this has turned out to be be," whispered Auntie Luciana conspiratorially. "All of Montreal's finest sitting right here in our Dining Room. Wouldn't have missed this for the world!" she chuckled.

Edward quickly stood to help Nathan with Auntie Luciana, who immediately shooed him away.

"Get behind me, Edward. I need to make my grand entrance on the arm of this young gentleman, who happens to be the guest of honor."

Edward sighed, used to his sister's pomposity and unique ways, but took her free arm anyway.

"Thank you," mouthed Nathan, as Auntie Luciana was quite the handful, and not nearly as steady on her feet tonight.

But instead of breaking off into two couples so that Nathan and Millicent could enter together, as Edward had intended, Auntie Luciana simply held on to both of the men, who graciously seated her next to where the honored couple was sitting.

Nathan then took Millicent's hand, and the entire Dining Room broke out in applause.

"Kiss, kiss, kiss!" they chanted, of course with Richard leading.

"My pleasure, Richard!" responded Nathan, coyly, reaching to kiss his fiancée at this, their Engagement Dinner.

That confident remark and subsequent loving kiss earned the couple more applause.

Both smiling, Nathan escorted Millicent to her seat, sitting down on the other side of her, across from Auntie Luciana.

Edward stood at the head of the table.

"It is my distinct honor and pleasure to introduce a family who is very special to us, the Grant Family. If Arch and I are completely above board, we have to admit, we saw this union coming at ten years of age! As did the Ladies of our houses, probably even before us. These two were mesmerized with each other and totally inseparable as children. And with that, nothing has changed much, because they are still mesmerized with each other and still pretty much inseparable. But both grew up, one into a handsome Mountie, top of his class, who is now Chief Inspector of all the Mounties. The other into a beautiful barrister, top of her class, who gives much of her time freely and lovingly to those in need. All those years ago and still now, Victoria says they are destined to be together, that it was written in the stars ages ago. All of us who have the privilege of knowing and loving them are inclined to agree. We're so thankful our God not only made them for each other, but finally brought them together, exactly where they should be. A toast to the beautiful couple, Millicent and Nathan, may your stars always guide you!"

A joyous "Hear, hear!" was followed by hundreds of clinks, as the entire roster of guests, except for Auntie Luciana, rose from their chairs, honoring the couple.

"A joyous welcome to the family, Nathan! You are much loved and one of us, just as our darling Millicent is now part of the Grants, our dear friends!"

"That was beautiful, Edward! Our wayward children are finally at long last together. May you both be as happy every single day as I once was, and it will be a marvelous life together," pronounced Luciana. "Blessings my Darlings!"

"Thank you, Auntie Luciana!"

The meal was extraordinary. Victoria had pulled out all the stops, with twelve courses of the most delectable and delicious food in the entirety of Canada.

The First HORS D' OEUVRES Course consisted of Wild Mushrooms Stuffed with Lumps of Hot Crab and Minced Shallots topped with Ethiopian Clarified and Spiced Butter

The Second AMUSE BOUCHE Course consisted of a Bed of Smoked Salmon with Dollops of Crème Fraiche, topped with Caviar, and sprinkled with Fresh Dill

The Third SOUP Course consisted of a Thick Oyster Chowder topped with Chucked Whole Oysters on a bed of Caramelized Onions with Crispy Bacon

The Fourth APPETIZER Course consisted of Tempura Fried Calamari atop Fried Sweet Pepper Rounds served with a Spicy Sriracha Mayo Sauce

The Fifth Salad Course consisted of an Arugula and Spinach Salad with Crispy Bacon, Deviled Eggs, Candied Walnuts, and Goat Cheese Croutons served with a Steamy Hot Bacon Dressing.

The Sixth FISH Course consisted of Roasted Shrimp & Cheddar Grits, spiced to perfection, and fixed differently than anyone had had before.

The Seventh FIRST MAIN Course was served in honor of Millicent, Table-side, and consisted of Crispy Roasted Tropical Duck with Sweet Mango Sauce which literally brought moans. Compliments abounded around the table!

The Eighth Palate Cleanser Course consisted of Gingered Champagne Sorbet topped with Candied Ginger

The Ninth SECOND MAIN Course was served in honor of Nathan, Table-side, and consisted of Grilled Butterflied Filets filled with Fresh Lumps of Cayenne Crab and topped with the Creamiest Hollandaise Sauce ever, also sprinkled ever so lightly with Cayenne. Every single bite of the most tender steak ever tasted literally melted together delectably in each guest's mouth, followed by a series of second delightful moans. What a delectable and special meal this was turning out to be!

The Tenth CHEESE Course consisted of a variety of Sophia's best cheeses, along with her Homemade Chutneys and Jams. The Chef added a Mound of Caramelized Onions, along with a beautiful selection of Homemade Breads and Crackers with Fresh Tropical Fruits. It was a spread like no other and had Sophia wanted, she could have started a second stand-alone business right then and there at the table, with everyone begging to know the source of these delectable cheeses and jams. Nathan was so proud of his mother. What had started out as a necessity for Sophia and her family had grown into a full-fledged passion, as well as a burgeoning business which appeared to be unstoppable!

The Eleventh DESSERT Course was served with wine, tea, and coffee, in honor of both Nathan and Millicent. This course consisted of one of their favorites served Table-side under dimmed lights. The Baked Alaska was pure theater as everyone observed the many rush of flames around the huge tables with delighted gasps. But once served, there wasn't a lot of conversation till after every single bite was fastidiously consumed!

The Twelfth and last MIGNARDISE course signaled the end of this magical and memorable dinner, and was served with a final glass of Champagne and second toast to the Engaged Couple prior to eating! The Mini-Dessert consisted of two Meringue Swans floating in the lightest of Strawberry Custards and holding a heart of Dark Chocolate between them with both Nathan and Millicent written on it in Gold, sprinkled all over in Edible Gold Flakes. On the back of the heart was their Wedding Date.

This second toast was led by Archie as he offered a traditional Gaelic Engagement Blessing.

"An old Irish Engagement Toast to our beloved Nathan and beloved, enchanting Millicent!"

His loud clear voice rang out full of Gaelic charm as everyone stood, with congratulatory smiles and their glasses raised.

Then Archie offered his heartfelt blessing.

"May your mornings bring joy

And your evenings bring peace.

May you Troubles grow ew as

Your Blessings increase.

May the saddest day of your future

Be no worse than the happiest day

Of your past.

May your hands be Forever clasped in Friendship

And your hearts joined Forever in love.

Your lives are very special.

God has touched you in many ways.

May His blessings rest upon you.

And fill all your coming days.

God has touched you in many ways." (*115)

But even more than the food, there was love around these huge tables, among hundreds of people, three hundred to be exact, brought together all for the love between these two special people…


"Thank you for dancing with our mothers, Love. They were so very touched!"

"But now I hope to dance with the love of my life. Dance with me, Darling?"

He held out his hand.

"Always, my Love. With pure joy!"

He took her into the perfect hold, and their bodies became one, moving together so elegantly.

He commandingly swept her across the Ballroom floor, as though they were the only two in the vast room. Their singular movement together was now as integral and necessary as the music the orchestra played, with every eye lovingly on them.

"Only ten more days till we become one, Darling, in every way. Our Wedding Day," he whispered.

She acknowledged him with a radiant smile, one full of commitment, hope, and passion, with love overflowing in spades.

From that moment on neither could think of anything but their own coming Vows.

Suddenly the night was beautifully alive in a new profound way, with their hearts simply full to overflowing, realizing their Wedding Day was just ten short days away…

*115. Traditional Gaelic Engagement Blessing, Various Online Searches & Sources, Public Domain