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Author's Notes: Thank you for your patience! For the past 4 weeks I have been recovering from a severe fall and the injuries have delayed concentration and writing. I am on the road to recovery now, so can finally offer further chapters in this continuing story.
Reminder: If you have forgotten who is who, the character list is in Chapter 147 to refresh your memory.
Warning: In this chapter there is some discussion (in couched terms) of the act of marriage in a father-son conversation. You may wish to preview it first before allowing children to read it!
As always, I hope you return to this tale and enjoy! Eilie
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Chapter One Hundred Sixty-nine
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Milestones and Moves
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"When did you find out about Bill's past, Honey?" Elizabeth and Nathan were seated on the sofa in the living room, arms intertwined as they quietly processed their day. The Collinses had retreated to their studio apartment, the Kinslows to the guest room, and Allie was in her bedroom. Bill had departed after an emotionally exhausting day, taking Jack back to the Hotel on his way home.
"Bill confided in me the night we shared dinner at your parents and Jack broke the vase. I noticed he had an odd expression and when I went over to help him unpack I asked what prompted his reaction. He explained how he had been treated at the orphanage and the whole story tumbled out. I think I was the first person he ever told after Nathaniel Avery died, so I was surprised he confessed it to everyone today." Nathan had his hand covering Elizabeth's and gently caressed it with his thumb.
"I believe that once you have shared something aloud, it becomes easier to share it with others thereafter. Somehow the stigma is lessened and you can expand your circle of trusted confidants." Elizabeth leaned her head on Nathan's shoulder as she continued, "It happened to me that once I confessed to Joseph or Ben, I could share with my parents and eventually with you."
Quietly contemplating the day's events, Elizabeth broke the silence, "Wasn't it precious that Allie recognized this need without even knowing Bill's background? She had no idea how much Bill needed that acknowledgment and what it would mean to him to have a physical certificate to keep. I want to encourage Allie that, by her obedience to follow through with her concern, God used her to bless Bill in a life-altering manner. How significant for him!"
"When we follow those prompts we never know who might benefit, you know?"
"Are you thinking of a particular circumstance, Nathan?"
"Not really. It's just that when on rounds there were days when I felt I should reverse the direction I traveled and it turned out to be Providential."
Nathan paused then confessed, "Well, there was this one time when I switched my route and came across a little boy, floating a leaf in a puddle in the middle of the road. He didn't know where his mommy was, so I scooped him up and carried him to the nearest farmhouse. As it happened, his grandmother was frantic and had been searching for him throughout the house. She had no idea the little tyke could toddle that far away having only recently learned to walk so she was greatly relieved. Because I was on that road that morning, I had previously met a farmer who introduced me to his granddaughter who was visiting for the summer and was already bored, as he described her. So, I made the connection between the two families and the little fella had a young babysitter who adored him and was a Godsend to his grandmother! There's no credit to me for that, I just followed the idea of changing my route!"
"I imagine there are lots of similar stories you could share. Have you considered including antidotes like that in your instruction manuals? It might be a story that someone would remember just when they needed it."
Elizabeth reached up to pat Nathan's rough cheek, giggling, "As much as I would like to stay, I think you should bring me home, Honey. I can tell by your beard it is getting late!"
Nathan felt his chin and chuckled, "Is that a way to clock the time of day, by the length of my stubble?"
"Sometimes?" Elizabeth turned his face to hers to kiss his cheek, then his dimpled chin and then his lips. "Just think, in one week we'll be on our honeymoon with no need for clocks or rides home or…"
"I'm trying not to think about that yet, Lisbeth!"
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Nathan, Gabe, and Lillian met in the kitchen and prepared a simple breakfast of eggs, bacon, scones, and jam. As they were eating in the dining room with Allie, Carol and Peter emerged from the apartment.
"Good morning! I didn't know if you would be eating by yourselves, but I can easily make some more eggs and set another couple place settings? Shall I?"
"No, no, Nathan! Carol and I had out usual porridge along with some scones!" Peter surveyed those around the table, "Good morning, everyone. I hope you slept well? I'm sorry, Nathan, but I forgot to ask you yesterday. Could you give me a ride to Depot? When I am finished there, I can ask Jake to bring me back here."
"I can do that. I know you are meeting with Gabe this morning, do you want to meet here instead? You could drop Allie and me off and have the use of the car until we need to come home."
"I need to meet with you at Depot, Gabriel, and I am also meeting with Tim." Peter questioned, "Gabriel, do you need the vehicle?"
"I could use it if it was available. Nathan, Lillian and I could explore a bit after the meeting. May I?"
After settling on a plan, the three Mounties and Allie departed with Gabe taking notes of landmarks and directions he would use later.
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As lunchtime approached, Nathan heard a light knock on his office door. When he responded, he was surprised to see Gabriel Kinslow standing with an odd grin on his face.
"Gabe! I thought you would meet Lillian and tour the city before picking me up!"
"I will meet Lillian later but could we share lunch together, Nathan? I have something to tell you," Gabe carried in a paper satchel and placed it on Nathan's desk. "Is now a good time?"
"Of course, but is everything okay?" Nathan motioned Gabe to be seated while he cleared a portion of his desk.
"Oh, more that okay, Nathan! I met with Peter and then together with him and Chief Superintendent Stewart. Wait until you hear the plans! Shall I give thanks for the food first?"
Watching his friend carefully after Gabe gave thanks, Nathan popped the top off of the Ginger Ale bottle and opened the sandwich wrapper. "Well?"
"The Commissioner told me what the future promotion plans are for you, Brother, and I am impressed and thrilled for you. You deserve this with your record and having had to decline the previous offer. Congratulations!" Gabe gave a brief salute before continuing. "He also explained the plans to withdraw the R.C.M.P. presence from the western towns and allow Provincial Police to do what we have done for so many years, while the Mounties will concentrate on border issues."
"Really!" Nathan leaned back in his chair, waiting for Gabe to chew his bite of food. "So the rumors of changes are true. They'll be replacing Mounties in Hope Valley and Brookfield with the B.C.P.P. and A.P.P.? How does that work for you?"
"Are you ready for this?" Gabe's expression was one of glee, "In the long-term, when you are promoted, they want to move me into your current position here at Depot!" Gabe paused to let this news sink in.
"Wow! That's great, Gabe! You deserve it too as you've served faithfully for so many years. Do you need to apply and be approved?"
"They had me complete an application between meetings then interviewed me together. I guess they noted past reports of my tracking skills, plus reviewed my records of service in the Northern Territories and said it would be helpful to have my Territory experience bring authenticity to academic lessons. In addition, evidently someone they respect and appreciate recommended me to the position, so it was an easy decision. I believe that someone was you?" Gabe eyed Nathan and by his friend's downcast eyes knew it was the truth.
"Ah, I did say that you would be good replacement when the time came, if they were interested."
"Well, thank you, Brother! They seem to be interested and I am too! I can't formally accept until the position opens, so that gives me time to discuss the changes with Lillian, but it is something to which I look forward! I'm a little stunned though."
"What happens in the short-term? I mean the positions are not currently available for either of us."
"The plan is for me to oversee and train others for the border patrols from Hope Valley since the town is so close to the States and I am familiar with the area. Lillian and I will relocate for the time being and we are open to whatever is offered since orphanages are not the way of the future. She might be able to advocate for children while writing articles for newspapers, thereby using her expertise, but that is possible from anywhere."
"Wow, there are so many possibilities…"
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After arranging with Jake to pick up Allie, Peter and himself, Nathan had sent Gabe to get Lillian and suggested taking her to dinner to discuss their future in private.
Leaning back in his chair, Nathan gave thanks to the Lord for all the changes to come for his friend and Mountie brother, Gabriel, and for his own brother, Zachary.
He was grateful that Tim had made Nathan's attendance optional at the Regimental Dinner in the Officer's Mess where senior Mounties passed along traditions in the espirit de corps, the Mountie brotherhood. Knowing there would be other opportunities in the future, Nathan had declined to attend desiring that Zach would have his own event with his graduating Troop, separate from any family connections. Tomorrow, the family would attend the formal luncheon welcoming those newly graduated and their guests, although Tim had insisted that Nathan and his bride-to-be would be seated at the head table of Instructors for that event.
Now, for the umpteenth time, Nathan studied the order of the day for Zach's graduation including the Sergeant Major's Dress Parade, inspections, drills and formations on Tuesday, as well as when he should be where. Although Zach and all the family was unaware, Nathan would be the Mountie to confer the badge when Zachary's assignment would be announced, even though the location of his posting would be a surprise to both brothers.
Giving thanks for the number of vehicles available, Nathan went over the plans. Hudson would bring Elizabeth, Jack and the Thatchers, Gabe would drive Nathan's vehicle with Carol and Lillian while Archie would drive his own automobile with Allie and Ruth. Bill had volunteered to chauffer Nathan and Peter to Depot early so they could help guide the family to their assigned seats. Nathan chuckled to himself that this was only the beginning of the family's transportation arrangements as the wedding approached!
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After dinner and cleanup, Archie pulled Nathan aside and asked if he could take a brief walk with him as he needed to discuss something. Nathan looked at Elizabeth with a questioning glance and she responded, "Go ahead, Honey. I can spend some time with Lillian as our schedules are filling and from tomorrow onwards, will be full! Enjoy your time with Dad."
"We shouldn't be very long, Elizabeth," assured Archie as the men donned their overcoats.
As Archie and Nathan walked up the driveway to the street, Archie began by clearing his throat, "Ahem. Ah, Son, I know I wasn't much of a father to you, and your mother stepped into the role as much as she could in my absence, but I realize that I have a responsibility now that I cannot miss. You are getting married and I know from Mom that she had a conversation about men and women and waiting for marriage to be intimate. I won't ask, but I believe you have waited, yet someone should tell you about what to expect and answer any questions you may have and that should be your father. I know you are older, and in your Mountie experience you may be very familiar with a woman's body in birth, injury, or after an assault, but marriage brings so many new experiences."
As Archie glanced up at his son, he saw the warmth creeping up Nathan's neck. "It is easy to say, but it is true that you need not be embarrassed right now. Every chaste groom is inexperienced and may be nervous. You have one advantage in that Elizabeth was married and bore a child, so she will not have the discomfort a bride might have her very first time. Nevertheless, any past she has is past. Now, the two of you will need to be honest, listen, and learn together in your marriage."
"It takes men less time to be ready for intimacy than it usually does for a woman, so please take your time with and enjoy each other? Use your kisses and caresses to explore her and ask her what is pleasing her? Also, ask her to tell you when she is ready for your union. Eventually each of you will know the signs and what pleases the other, although marriage is a learning experience for the rest of your life and there will be surprises."
"You may find that Elizabeth will initiate and/or guide you. Don't feel threatened by that or worry that you have done something wrong or not enough. Marriage is giving and taking, both in the bedroom and in your life together. Oh, also, use words to love her and include lighter moments and humor. Enjoy and cherish her, Son, and pray together. Your love is visible to all of us and is a joy to behold, so I know you will find your way together. Another reminder is to keep communicating. Take time to share and listen to each other, Son, in every aspect of your relationship."
"Do you have any questions?" Archie reached up to place his hand on Nathan's shoulder and waited.
"Uh… Everything is so new to me that I don't even know what to say, or to ask."
"And that is okay, Nathan. May I also recommend you read the Song of Solomon periodically throughout your marriage? If nothing else, it will reassure you of God's design and approval of intimacy in marriage."
Nathan spoke quietly, "I confess I have avoided that Book since my youth."
"And that was probably wise, but now you can revisit the Book without guilt!" Archie chuckled, but sobered quickly, "May I also admonish you to continue to guard your eyes and be cautious around other women? I have observed you and notice that you focus on Elizabeth's eyes and face, and you don't wander to survey her body or that of other women. I don't know if it was your Mom or your Mountie training or the Lord's leading you, but your caution, your blinders are to be commended. You make women feel safe and Elizabeth knows she can trust you to only have eyes for her."
Archie continued, "There are times when you must refrain from intimacy, but find your way together to still show your love, commitment and faithfulness to each other. You know my failures in that area, Son. I know I've been forgiven, but it will take a lifetime to forget the pain I caused your mother, in spite of how God brought good from that betrayal."
"Shall we turn back now? Remember, you can still approach me with questions or talk to your pastor or doctor. You don't need to flounder on your own if there is something you need from a male's perspective or cannot discuss with Elizabeth right away."
"Thanks, Dad."
"I love you, Nathan, and am so happy for who you are and what lies ahead for you."
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As Nathan double-checked his hair in the hall mirror Tuesday morning, Allie was watching. "Dad, you look really sharp in the dress uniform. Maybe the dark blue will make it easy to find you as you'll stand out as different from all the red serge?" Allie gave her father and Grampa Pete the once over, "You look good too, Grampa! I'm guessing you'll be standing in front of the Troops to observe them? This is so exciting to see the Sergeant Major's Dress Parade and Uncle Zach get his orders! I can't wait!"
"Please take good care of your grandmother, Honey, okay? Uncle Bill and Uncle Gabe will make sure she has a good seat, but you may sense if she needs something and you can tell them, okay?"
"Sure, Dad. We'll be fine. You have fun!"
"Oh! Gabe? Would you please take charge of my camera? Allie can get it from the cupboard in the living room. Any photos you can get will be welcome. Thank you." Nathan glanced around the table as the family finished their breakfast. "I will see you there!"
As Nathan passed the kitchen doorway on his way to meet Bill and Peter, he called out, "Thank you, Irma and Jake, for setting up tonight's meal. See you later!"
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The excitement was palpable as the Grant's extended family settled on benches beside Parade Square anxious for the festivities to begin. Their attention was focused as soon as they heard the drum beats and trumpets announcing the arrival of the dignitaries, Commissioner Collins, Chief Superintendent Stewart and various Instructors at Depot. Knowing where to look, Gabriel pointed out Nathan as he marched in with the group of Instructors, his baton tucked under his arm and looking very official. There were a few others in the dark blue dress serge, but Nathan's height kept him easy to identify.
Soon the guests' attention shifted to the Cadets as they marched in, perfectly in line and in step. The graduates formed the first Troop as other Cadets found their places behind them and all stopped in front of the dignitaries. Drill Sergeant Maxon shouted the orders as the Troops responded to his commands and various Instructors inspected the formations, noting the uniforms, boots and stance of the Cadets.
"What are they doing, Uncle Bill?" Jack whispered. He was seated on his uncle's lap which allowed him a good view of the proceedings.
"The Drill Sergeants are inspecting the Cadets to see if they are dressed and standing properly, then they'll turn them over to the Chief Superintendent. The Drill Sergeant gives orders and soon you'll see the Cadets march together, change directions and make various formations. It is complicated but they have rehearsed many times to prepare for just this moment. Watch…"
Bill pointed and explained to Jack as the rows changed configurations. Ripples of applause were heard amidst the sounds of unified marching boots, drums, and commands. The families were impressed!
As the Troops marched the outer edges of the Square, Bill was able to spot Zachary Grant as they grew closer. He informed Elizabeth who quickly notified the elder Grants and soon the entire family group was watching their Cadet, proud as could be. Hurriedly Bill whispered to Jack, instructing him to not call out his Uncle's name or distract him since he was marching.
Soon the majority of the Cadets marched off the field, while Troop Eight returned to face the Senior Officers. Chief Superintendent Tim ordered the group to convene on the steps of the office building for official photographs of the graduating class while the guests made their way into the Drill Hall for the Graduation Ceremony.
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The bagpipes began to drone as the drums played and soon the graduating Troop marched into the Hall, standing in front of the assembled guests and Senior Officers. Nathan had nodded and tipped his cap at the family before the Troops marched in, so everyone directed their attention to the graduates. After displaying additional formations, the Troop stood at attention for the oaths of allegiance, office, and secrecy, oaths sworn by every Mountie since 1873.
Commissioner Collins addressed the Troop and congratulated them for their diligence and fine work during their months of training, commissioning them to serve Canada with allegiance and loyalty to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Code that had been purposely instilled in them. "Let me be the first to congratulate you for successfully completing your training. I thank you for your service thus far and commend you as you relocate to your assigned postings. Godspeed." With a salute to Tim Stewart, the Commissioner turned the remaining program over to the Chief Superintendent.
"I will now present your badge as your posting is announced by Superintendent Jones. When you are called, please come forward to salute and receive this important sign of your status as graduates and members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police." Pausing to take a badge from an assistant, Chief Superintendent Stewart awaited the approach of the first graduate, "Constable Theodore Adams from Calgary to Kingston, Ontario."
After a few additional men received their badges, Staff Sergeant Major Nathan Grant stepped forward to take the badge and stand beside Tim. Suddenly the announcement was made, "Constable Zachary Grant from Edmonton to Summerside, Prince Edward Island."
A gasp escaped the Grant family group as they heard the posting announced and saw Nathan step forward to confer the badge.
Zachary approached, smartly saluting his brother.
After returning the salute, Nathan pinned the badge on Zachary's uniform, stepped back to shake his hand and hold his gaze, as Zach spoke in a low tone, "Thank you, Sir." Nathan nodded before the brothers exchanged salutes and returned to their places, both somewhat glassy-eyed. Nathan was filled with gratitude and pride while, moved, the Grant family all wiped their tears.
With closing remarks of congratulations, the Chief Superintendent dismissed the new Constables to their assigned postings. A ripple of applause filled the Hall as the new graduates shook each other's hands, hugged and received congratulations from the Senior Officers and their Depot Instructors.
Nathan immediately made his way to Zachary and the brothers embraced, hardly able to voice their appreciation and admiration for each other. It was Drill Sergeant Maxon who interrupted with his hearty congratulations.
"Congratulations, Constable Grant."
"Thank you, Sergeant." Zachary snapped a quick salute.
"Thank you, Sir, for your part in giving me my brother," Nathan saluted and responded quietly.
"And I thank you for giving me my family, Sir," Zachary voiced. "I will never forget your kindnesses."
"It's been my pleasure, Constable Grant. I am sorry to lose you to Summerside, but hope we meet again someday! Well done." The Drill Sergeant saluted once again and moved on to greet other graduates.
Chief Superintendent Stewart followed to congratulate Zachary, "It has been a privilege to have you join the R.C.M.P., Constable Grant."
"Thank you, Sir. It is my honor, and thank you for the many opportunities you allowed for me to spend time with my newly-found family. I've appreciated every moment."
"It's been my pleasure, Constable, Sergeant. Your brotherhood is now doubly established! Please greet your family and I'll see you all at the Luncheon."
"Zachary, my boy!" Archie Grant had tears overflowing as he embraced his younger son. "I am so proud of you and so grateful to witness this momentous event."
As Archie stepped aside to allow Ruth to hug Zachary, Archie caught Nathan's eye and a pang of regret shot through him. Quickly, he made his way to Nathan, tearfully apologizing to missing Nathan's graduation. "Nathan, I am so sorry. I don't know if you can ever forgive me for missing this milestone in your life. I am so proud of you, though."
"Dad, forgiveness has flowed between us. No regrets now. You are here and the biggest milestone in my life is coming in a few days where you'll be present as the Groom's Father!"
"I am grateful for that at least," Archie whispered to Nathan as he gave him a hug.
The extended family gathered around Zachary, showing him their love and pride at his accomplishment. It was Ruth who first addressed the issue of his posting. "Zach! You are moving so far away. It reminds me all over again of how difficult it has been to have Nathan so distant in his many years as a Mountie. At least you have your family together here now and this can be your home base so you can eventually visit..."
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