Chapter 261 – John Talks to Nathan and Father Mark
Saturday morning, it was Nathan that John found praying in the library. John had thought for sure it would have been Father Mark. Nathan had thought he would have also found Father Mark in the library, especially since he wasn't in the room when Nathan woke up and he heard him leave. Then Nathan wondered if he was working out. He had not checked the gym. Maybe he was like Jack in that regard and needed to physically work out to work out some emotions. So thinking that Father Mark would come up and do morning prayer in the library since they had left the altar set up.
Nathan quietly approached the altar, lit the candles, knelt and prayed. He went through the morning prayers that he had been doing and then he prayed a Rosary. He used the new book that Father Mark had given him and he couldn't believe how much of a difference that it made in helping to meditate while praying. He had never personally been to the Holy Lands, but had seen plenty of pictures and used those to try and put himself in those places as he read and prayed.
When he was done, he sat on the couch and read a bit in his Bible. Father Mark had shown him how to look up what the daily readings would be and Nathan was trying to get into the habit of reading those, especially when he was up early and had time. He also felt that he needed to pray and think about the day. He had done everything that he could do to prepare for the show, but there was still a part of him that was worried he was going to embarrass Jack and his family. At one point he was aware that John was sitting across from him watching him.
"Was there something you needed?" Nathan asked without looking up.
"I wanted to check how you were doing." John said. "Devin said your sister and niece were having problems and he had someone keeping an eye on the place."
"Yes and yes." Nathan said, slowly looking John in the eye. "Gran and Jack approved it. My sister doesn't want to leave the city and her soon to be ex-husband is once again causing problems."
"Is there anything else I can do to help?" John asked.
"Unless you can convince the cops that Dylan is dangerous." Nathan said. "And get a restraining order for my sister or better yet push Dylan's drug case up so he is in jail, then no."
"I will have Devin look into a restraining order." John said. "I could also check and see if there was an apartment in one of the buildings that either JP or I own. We could get her into a secure apartment and that might help."
"I suggested that." Nathan said. "But Colleen has become fiercely independent and doesn't want handouts from anyone. She says she doesn't want to move because her cleaning jobs are close by and she knows her neighbors who help with Allie."
"I will still have Peter check what is available." John said. "Then maybe Devin can have a conversation with your sister and show her it is for the best. Maybe we can even find her a better job."
"Good luck." Nathan said. "She is my twin and I haven't been able to get through to her."
"Understand." John said. "But I feel I need to try anyway."
Nathan nodded. Just then Father Mark knocked on the library door and stepped in.
"I was wondering if I could speak to John?" Father Mark asked.
"Absolutely." Nathan said. "I will finish reading downstairs."
Nathan stood up, gathered his things and looked at John.
"Thank you for checking." Nathan said. "And for trying to speak to Colleen."
"You are welcome." John said.
Nathan walked to Father Mark, patted him on the shoulder and continued downstairs. Father Mark closed the doors, but didn't lock them.
"I wanted to talk to you about yesterday." Father Mark said.
"Okay." John said. "I mean I spoke further with the Chief of Police and got most of the story, but would like to hear it from your side."
Father Mark explained things to John, telling him exactly what he had told Frank and Nathan the evening before. Again, there were tears shed and when he was done, Father Mark sat there and looked at John. John took a moment, then stood and walked to stand in front of Father Mark. He motioned for him to stand. John then put both his hands on Father Mark's shoulders and looked him in the eye.
"Son." John said, his voice full of emotion. "You did everything you could and you need to realize that you have done nothing wrong. You tried your best to save that young woman and the only person to blame is the man who attacked her and left her for dead. Do you understand me?"
Father Mark nodded and then John did something he hadn't done in years. He folded his arms around Father Mark and held him close. John wasn't one to show physical affection to others since his wife died. He had hugged his grandson when JP hugged first, but this was the first time John remembered initiating a hug since his wife had died all those years ago.
Father Mark once again cried and John just let him. John knew the young man was struggling and if he could physically give Father Mark some of his strength he would. They stood there for over five minutes. Finally, Father Mark pulled back and John let him go. The two men then sat down.
"Thank you and I am sorry." Father Mark said.
"You are welcome and no need to be sorry." John said. "That was not something any man should see. I am going to encourage you to talk to Frank as I think he will best understand. Feel free to talk to the others if you want. If you feel you need something more, like a professional, I will do everything to help. I know you know where to look, but let me know if you need anything."
"I will, thank you." Father Mark said.
John sat and let Father Mark get on with his prayers as he had seen the book that the young man had brought with him. John knew that he could kneel and Father Mark would read them out loud, but he chose to sit further away and give him some privacy while he read his own devotional that he had originally come in the library to do when he had found Nathan. He didn't regret talking to either young man, as he wanted to make sure they were taking care of themselves because then they would be better able to help keep his grandson safe. John was glad that Devin had pushed to bring Nathan on board to protect JP. The more that he learned about the young man, the more impressed he was. The fact that JP and his friends had taken to him so quickly was only a bonus. He was also glad that Frank had agreed to stay on and work for JP as well. He knew that his grandson didn't care if they worked for him, they were his friends first.
John then thought about speaking to JP about a more permanent position for Nathan and to see what JP thought of his plan. John thought that Nathan could take on a role similar to Andrew for JP. He knew that it would ease his mind while his grandson was in school. He also had to sit down with both men and let them know that he had made some calls and gotten Nathan enrolled at Columbia to take classes with JP and the possibility of taking a few others if he wanted. He knew that Nathan had wanted to take a few more law classes to supplement the law enforcement degree he already had. He also figured that some business classes wouldn't hurt if he was going to be around his grandson. John was already looking forward to working with both Doug and JP to learn his business so he would start handing the things off to them. He was also working to convince Lee's father that he would be willing to be an investor in this company. So far the man had been resistant. He was a self made man and was worried about John taking over. No matter how many times John heard Jack had plans, he just wanted to ensure the future of the company because it was important to his grandson's best friend.
Father Mark knelt and did his morning prayers. He felt better after working out and then talking to John. He took a few moments to center himself before he did his morning prayers. When he was done, he blew out the candles and made sure things were straightened up. He was thinking of doing a family Mass the next, but he needed to talk to his grandparents and see what they wanted. He thought he would also see how things went at the show. Originally, he was going to drive, but he had talked to Frank and decided to go with him, Trish and the girls. He was still debating about wearing his clerics or if he wanted to dress casually for the day. He knew that there was Coal Creek polo hanging in the closet for him if he wanted and he wondered if he should wear it.
By the time the two men emerged from the library for breakfast, they had a plan moving forward. If the police pressed things, John would provide a lawyer for Father Mark and would do what was needed to help. John also had sent messages to Peter and Devin and had a plan moving forward for both Father Mark and Nathan. Those two men were important to his grandson and therefore he was going to everything in his power to make life easier for the two men. The others had been down and dealt with the horses already. The twins had agreed to a short lesson that afternoon after they returned if they could leave earlier to see some of the preliminary level competition. So after a quick call to Chris, it was decided that Nathan, Jack, Doug, Lee and Elizabeth as well as Frank, Trish, Father Mark and the twins would leave and head over once they had everything ready and watch the other level jump. Marco and Carlo had already left with the horses when the kids had come back to the house after chores. Marco had once again taken the large four horse trailer with the sitting area. He had also taken all the tack and a large cooler of drinks, sandwiches and snacks. Jack would still bring his small cooler like he always did.
"I just want to double check." John said. "Trish, Frank, Nathan and Father Mark, you are all okay leaving early to watch the other level jump and staying until after our boys jump."
All four nodded their heads.
"Father Mark." Gran said. "I thought you were taking your truck."
"I can if you want another vehicle in case something happens." Father Mark said. "Otherwise I was going to ride with Trish and Frank."
"I think you should take your truck." John said. "If Frank is okay with Trish driving his SUV, then he can ride with you or you can drive yourself."
"I am okay with it." Frank said. "I figured we would all caravan over together and you guys could come with Peter and Andrew later. From what I understand Chris, Katie and Rob will meet us there."
"That sounds good." John said. "I just like the idea of having another vehicle there. Just remember to park so you don't get blocked in. We are not going to be able to control who is there. We don't engage with the press if they are harassing you, I want you to call Marcus."
Everyone nodded their heads.
"I want you all to have fun, but please be alert." James said. "I don't trust Kensington to leave us alone. He might not be there himself, but I wouldn't put it past him to have others there to harass you."
"Kensingtons and Pennybakers are not allowed within two hundred feet of either Elizabeth, JP or Doug." John said. "If they cross that, call the cops. I have spoken with the sheriff as Marcus and all though they won't be onsite, they have promised they will be close at hand."
"We will keep our eyes open." Doug said.
"We will keep everyone safe." Trish said. "Even if I have to go full mama bear on someone."
They finished up breakfast and everyone went to change. Father Mark decided to wear his clerics and take his Coal Creek windbreaker. It was a cool, overcast day so it might come in handy. Jack, Doug and Nathan were dressed in their riding gear. Everyone else was in jeans and a Coal Creek polo. Elizabeth had the camera that had been loaned to her. Nathan double checked they all had their phones and everyone had everyone else's numbers including Marcus's. Trish and Jack both packed a cooler to take with and Gran promised to bring the larger one when she came.
So at a quarter after eight, the group headed out to Sugar Creek. They knew that it was going to be a long day, but Jack, Doug and Nathan would relax in the trailer if needed. The twins were excited to see the competition. They could potentially be jumping against some of them the next year. They were also excited to meet some of the other people who they might compete against the following week. They knew that there was always a following of younger jumpers at most of the shows. As much as they had wanted to hang out with the other jumpers, they had agreed to sit with their mother and help keep an eye on things. It also made Elizabeth feel better that there were more people that would be surrounding her while she was in the stands. She trusted Frank and Trish to keep her safe. It also helped that Katie would sit with them while Chris and Rob walked around.
When the group arrived, they saw that their three boys could register so they did that after parking the three vehicles near each other. Jack, Doug and Nathan headed to register while everyone else went to find a place to sit and save spots for the grandparents. Trish and Frank had received a message that security was already there and just to let them know when they were in the stands and they would find them. The show was set up in a open sand ring with bleachers set up on two and half sides. Further down, you could see all the trailers and where the horses would warm up. There were a few food vendors, but Trish was glad they packed stuff for them. Trish, Father Mark, Frank, Lee, Elizabeth and the twins found a nice spot in the front of the bleachers on one corner. Once the blankets had been spread out and they had enough spots saved, Trish sent a message to Katie. It was only a few minutes and she joined the group.
The three guys were joking with each other as they waited in line behind two other jumpers. When it was their turn, Jack stepped forward.
"Three jumpers from Coal Creek checking in." Jack said. "We will all be jumping intermediate."
"Names and horses." The woman said.
"JP Thornton on Bandit."
"Doug Burke on Ghost."
"Nathan Grant on Athena."
"Who is the registered owner of the horses?" The woman asked.
"I own Bandit and Athena is registered to me through Thornton Thoroughbreds." Jack said. "Ghost is registered to Doug through Thornton Thoroughbreds."
"Here are your numbers." The woman said. "Names are in the back. They are to be pinned to the back of your jacket. Please draw for your spot in the order."
The three each grabbed a piece of folded paper from the tray on the table.
"I have seventeen." Jack said.
"Ten." Doug said.
"Twenty." Nathan said.
"Thank you." The woman said. "Feel free to wander around or watch the other jumpers. You will be able to walk the course at about eleven. It will be announced. Grab some course sheets and good luck."
The guys each grabbed a course sheet and Jack grabbed his usual four. He was sure that Marco had grabbed one, but he wanted to be sure. The guys then took their numbers and went to find Marco. They wanted to check the horses and start to study the course sheet. It wasn't hard to find Marco. Coal Creek had one of the largest trailers and Marco had even set up two large shade tents for them and the horses. The guys each grabbed a water and camp chair.
"Grandpa will be coming a little later." Jack said. "As you know the twins wanted to watch the others jump. So we decided to all come early. It is just the grandparents back at the ranch and they will be here by eleven."
"Good, good." Marco said. "The horses are great. Carlo is running around somewhere, but he is fine."
"Thanks for letting him come." Jack said. "He was so excited."
"I know." Marco said. "The encouragement you boys have given him has made a huge difference. He has always been a quiet kid, but the teasing that he took this past year was too much. His parents sent him to me for the summer because they wanted him to have a break and they know how much he loves being with horses."
"I know it is several years away." Jack said. "But if he is serious about vet school with an equine specialty, I would love to have him come back here and work for us."
"I am sure he would love that." Marco said. "The last four years he hasn't wavered from wanting to be a vet with an equine specialty."
"Then I will let it be." Jack said. "Just know if we can do anything to help along the way, just ask."
Marco nodded.
"Nathan." Marco said. "How do you feel about rising today? I can tell Athena is excited so you are going to have to hold her back."
"I feel good." Nathan said. "I plan on choosing a straightforward line and letting her run. I have found it is easier than trying to hold her back."
Jack and Marco both chuckled. Once being assured Marco was fine to sit there, the three guys went and checked out some of the younger riders. As they walked to the area where riders gathered to watch, several younger riders ran to Jack. Several had pictures they wanted him to sign. Many had the picture that had been in the paper of him winning the weekend before. When they saw Doug, they wanted his signature as well. Both guys took over twenty minutes to sign pictures and talk with the younger riders. Nathan watched how both Jack and Doug handled the attention with ease, even the girls about Doug's sister's ages that were openly flirting with both.
Once they were able to sit, they looked around and saw where the family was sitting. They also Ryan and Connor sitting with a few others they had seen the weekend before. Nathan leaned closer to Jack.
"Ignore them." Nathan whispered. "If they start something, we will deal with it, but it would be better to just ignore them."
Jack nodded. A couple of girls that were a year or so older came and sat near them.
"So, JP." The first girl said. "Is it true, you are off the market."
"Yes." Jack said. "Not that I was ever 'on the market' as you call it, but I am in a committed relationship and we are officially courting with the goal of being married one day."
"So who is this girl?" The second asked. "Better question is where is she? What about Lacy? She has had a crush on you forever."
"My girlfriend is someone I know from the city." Jack said. "Lacy was never even a consideration on my part. Also there will be no more discussion about it. I have decided my private life is that – private."
"Okay." The first girl said. "We are excited about the show next weekend. We both will be jumping advanced on Friday."
"Good luck." Jack said. "I look forward to watching you both next week then."
"Thank you." The second girl said. "We also do what we can to curb the gossip. Good luck to all of you today."
"Thank you on both accounts." Jack said.
With that the girls walked off. Nathan waited until they were out of earshot.
"Who were they?" Nathan asked.
"They were between Laura and I age wise and have been jumping advanced this year." Jack said. "The first girl was Callie and the other Lexie. Nice girls, good jumpers. They were never big into gossip and always tried to do right by people. Their father is the pastor of one of the churches in town and I believe their mother is a lawyer or accountant. They are less than a year apart."
"Okay." Nathan said.
They sat there and watched several jumpers before a group of very young riders and a teen about their age came over between two riders.
"We just wanted to say thank you for having a schooling show next week." One girl said.
"You are welcome." Jack said. "So are you all coming next week?"
All the kids nodded their heads.
"What level do you jump?" Nathan asked.
"They either all jump, beginner or novice." The older boys said. "They saw your jacket and wanted to come say hi. I told them they needed to let you get ready to ride later."
"It is okay." Jack said. "We have time and I can see they are excited. Do you have your phone?"
The boy nodded.
"Then how about all the little ones come up here and you can take a picture with the three of us." Jack said. "Then I will leave it to you to make sure they each get it."
"I can do that." The boys said.
All nine younger children crowded around Jack, Doug and Nathan. The teen snapped a couple of photos and each child said thank you.
"You should be sure to cheer really loud for us this afternoon." Doug said.
The kids all nodded and then left with the teen. Nathan was and wasn't surprised at the crowds that both Jack and Doug drew. He also saw how good both were with them. They sat and watched two more riders before heading back to the trailer.
