Chapter 4: Anticipation
Over the past two weeks, the Murdoch family has enjoyed the peace of home life. Julia and Susannah spent their days filled with playful moments and shared joy. Julia often spent time with Effie, discussing life and Effie's upcoming motherhood. One day, after leaving Susannah with Effie, Julia visited the women's hospital to check on how things were running in her absence. This visit reignited her desire to return to work.
William, now reenergized after the return of his family, focused intently on solving complex criminal cases. Julia and Susannah's return brought him a sense of stability, allowing him to focus more fully on his work. The daily satisfaction of a job well done and the knowledge that his wife and daughter were waiting for him at home gave him the strength to keep going.
The day of William and Julia's wedding anniversary arrived. Julia woke up in the morning, feeling the warmth of the sunlight streaming through the window, and smiled as she remembered the special day. However, when she turned to the side looking for William, she found only an empty space beside her. Sighing, she felt a slight disappointment that she had to start this special day alone.
She reached out to touch the pillow where William's head had recently rested, and that was when she noticed a note. With curiosity and growing interest, Julia picked up the note, unfolded it, and began to read the words William had left for her.
Julia,
I had to leave early, but the evening will be just ours. I've planned a special dinner for our tenth anniversary. Effie and George will take care of Susannah. Effie will come for her in the evening, so we will have the whole house to ourselves. Prepare for a special night.
I can't wait to see how beautiful you will look. See you tonight.
I love you, William.
A shy smile brightened Julia's face as she folded the note and set it on the bedside table. While the initial disappointment had faded, replaced by excitement for the evening, Julia still felt a bittersweet touch of nostalgia. Ten years had flown by, full of shared joys, challenges, and countless memories.
Motivated and full of enthusiasm, Julia got out of bed, deciding to dedicate the day to preparing for the evening. She began with a long, relaxing bath, during which she planned every detail of her appearance for this special night.
After her bath, Julia stood in front of her closet, looking for the perfect dress. Her hands stopped on a navy blue one she had bought during her last trip to England. William hadn't seen it yet, but Julia was sure he had like it. The dress was made of a delicate, flowing fabric that fit her perfectly, showing off every curve. The subtle sparkle of tiny stones along the neckline added a bit of shine, perfect for the soft evening light.
Julia and Susannah began their day with breakfast together, enjoying the time spent at the table. After the meal, while Susannah played, Julia decided to call William.
"Inspector William Murdoch," came the voice from the other side.
"William, I read your note. I'm looking forward to our evening," Julia said, smiling into the phone.
"Me too. There's one more thing—I've left something special for you on my desk. I hope it makes our evening even more magical," William said, his voice full of mystery.
"Thank you. Can't wait for tonight," Julia said, already excited about what William had planned for her.
After the phone conversation, Julia felt a mixture of joy and curiosity about the "something special" William had left for her on his desk. Glancing at Susannah as she played, Julia walked over to William's desk. On the desk, she noticed an envelope with her name beautifully written on the front. She decided not to look at it right away. She wanted to make the moment even more special, so she chose to wait until Effie came for Susannah. Then, in the peace and quiet, she could fully focus on William's words, which were surely written from the heart.
Julia decided to spend the rest of the day playing with Susannah before Effie came for her in the evening. They enjoyed pleasant moments together in the living room, drawing and reading short books. They also went for a walk to enjoy the fresh air and the sunlight, which pleasantly warmed their faces. The park they strolled through was alive with blooming flowers and birdsong, adding energy to their steps. Susannah, always full of energy and joy, delighted in every moment spent together, unaware of the special evening awaiting her parents.
Although Julia was excited about the evening's plans, she also felt a tinge of nostalgia as she watched her daughter. Two years of motherhood had flown by, with each day bringing new challenges and joys. Lost in thought about how quickly time was passing, she gazed at her growing daughter, who was becoming more independent with each passing day.
Meanwhile, William was finalizing the last details with George, who was helping him with the evening preparations. George was to deliver Rockefeller oysters, a dish William and Julia had enjoyed during their honeymoon, reminding them of those special moments spent together at the start of their marriage. Additionally, George was to bring a bottle of champagne and a bouquet of red roses to add a touch of romance to the evening.
Despite being absorbed in his professional duties, William was filled with impatience and excitement at the thought of spending this special time with Julia. He wondered if the letter he had left for her on the desk had touched her and if the evening gift he had prepared would be to her liking. These thoughts swirled in his mind as he finalized the preparations to celebrate their decade of life together in love and harmony.
Finally, it was time to get Susannah ready to go out. Julia dressed her in a favorite dress, adding delicate braids to her hair, which highlighted the sweet smile. She also made sure Susannah had her favorite plush toy, which always accompanied her during her nighttime adventures.
Susannah, full of excitement at the thought of spending time with the family friends, was practically bouncing with joy when Julia mentioned that Effie and George would be looking after her that evening. Her happiness was contagious, and her laughter echoed through the house, filling it with warmth and life.
"You're going on a little adventure with Aunt Effie and Uncle George, right?" Julia said as she tied the last braid. Susannah nodded, her eyes sparkling with joy.
"You'll stay there overnight, so don't forget to give your teddy bear a goodnight kiss," Julia added, helping her daughter gather a few necessary items into a small bag.
A moment later, the doorbell rang. As Effie stepped inside, her face lit up with a warm smile that immediately caught Susannah's attention. The little girl, excited for the upcoming nighttime adventure, ran over to Effie and hugged her tightly.
"Ready for a night full of fun?" Effie asked, lifting Susannah so she could look her straight in the eyes.
"Yes!" Susannah exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement. Julia watched the scene, feeling her heart swell with pride and love for the little girl who was growing up so quickly.
Julia handed Effie the bag she had prepared for Susannah, containing all the necessary items—a change of clothes, her favorite bedtime storybook, and, of course, the teddy bear she never slept without.
Julia gave Effie the final instructions. "Make sure she has her teddy bear when she goes to sleep, and... well, you know, she sometimes likes to hear a story before bed," Julia added.
Effie nodded with a smile. "Don't worry, Julia. I'll make sure Susannah has a wonderful evening. And you focus on your anniversary. You both deserve this time just for yourselves."
Julia, though a little anxious about leaving Susannah overnight, felt grateful for the support Effie always showed her family. She said goodbye to her daughter, kissing her on the forehead and whispering that she loved her.
As the door closed behind Effie and Susannah, Julia turned, ready for the evening that would celebrate ten years of love with William. Now, with the house to herself, she could finally allow herself a moment of relaxation and preparation for the romantic evening. She approached William's desk to finally read the letter that had been waiting for her in the peace and quiet of their shared home.
She sat comfortably in the chair and gently opened the envelope. She took out the letter, carefully folded.
She began to read, and William's words quickly transported her back to the moments they had shared together. In the letter, he wrote:
My Dearest Julia,
I'm writing these words in our quiet home, where every corner reminds me of you. You're far away now, in England, but even with the distance, you're in my every thought, in every beat of my heart.
I remember our honeymoon in New York like it was yesterday. Those first days as a husband and wife, full of discovery, laughter, and sharing every new experience. I think back to our evenings in the busy theater district, the oysters we had for dinner, and how your eyes sparkled with joy under the Broadway lights. These memories are my comfort when I feel lonely.
Since then, we've been through so much, from the happiest times of our lives to the tougher days. The birth of our beloved Susannah felt like a miracle that changed our lives and deepened our love. Every one of her smiles is a ray of sunshine that brightens our home.
Even though I don't know exactly when you'll be back, I'm dreaming of the day when we're together again. On our tenth anniversary, I want us to look back on those moments and create new memories. I hope our reunion will be just as magical as our first days together.
You always told me that love isn't just about the big gestures, but also the little, everyday acts of care that make up our life together. I can't wait to share every day with you again, holding your hand and looking into your eyes as we celebrate.
With all my love,
William
After reading the letter, Julia sat in silence for a moment, holding the paper tightly in her hands. Tears of emotion streamed down her cheeks as she reflected on the years she had spent with William, their journey through life, which, despite many challenges, had always been filled with love and support.
She knew that every word William had written was sincere, and the memories he had evoked came alive in her heart with renewed strength. The thought of the special dinner he had planned for their anniversary made her feel even more cherished and loved.
When William returned home, Julia greeted him with a smile and a warm embrace.
"Thank you for the letter, William. It was truly touching," she said with gratitude, holding the folded paper in her hands. Then she gently kissed him.
William responded with a warm smile. "I'm glad you liked it. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll freshen up and get changed."
While William went to the bathroom to freshen up, Julia focused on choosing accessories for her outfit. She selected delicate silver earrings that beautifully complemented her navy dress, along with a silver bracelet that subtly enhanced her look.
After leaving the bathroom, William changed into a sharp suit. Julia then took her turn in the bathroom to finish getting ready for the evening.
Meanwhile, William, who had already arranged things with George, picked up the oysters, champagne, and a bouquet of red roses that George had delivered. He put everything together as a surprise for the evening—something Julia had no idea about.
William set everything up with great care. He placed candles on the table, which he lit, along with a plate of oysters, the dishes, and the champagne with glasses. In the background, he played some soft music from the gramophone to create a romantic vibe. Everything was ready to celebrate their special evening. He held the bouquet of roses, waiting for Julia to join him in the living room.
After finishing up in the bathroom, Julia carefully put on her elegant dress and accessories. As she looked at herself in the mirror, she felt that every piece of her outfit told a story about her—her life, love, and the hopes she had for the years ahead with William. She hoped her carefully chosen look would make William smile and remind him of all the happy moments they had shared together.
Finally ready and full of anticipation, Julia left the bedroom and slowly made her way to the living room, where William was waiting for her.