Lucky to be loving you
Chapter 36
Page 106
As Peter and Melanie finished up their picnic, they returned to Peter's automobile and continued driving in the country. They noticed a truck that had a painted sign that read, Coulter Lumber Company parked by a parcel of land. Peter slowed down to see what was going on.
Melanie and Peter watched as the men were measuring and carrying lumber to the foundation that was dug out. The preliminary cement work had already been finished, so now it was time to build the house.
Peter said, "Melanie, let's go see whose house this is. I'm curious, aren't you?"
Melanie nodded in agreement. So the two got out and walked over. Trying not to disturb anyone, they waited for someone to notice them and then Peter walked over and introduced himself, looked back at Melanie, and waved at her to join him.
She pleasantly noticed that he introduced her as his lady friend, which tickled her.
Listening to the conversation, she found out that the house was being built for Christy and Rick O'Neill. She thought for a moment, then remembered them.
"Peter, we met them briefly at the Valentine's Day Dance in Hope Valley," Melanie reminded him.
Peter couldn't place their faces because there was both a younger and older O'Neill. Figuring it had to be the younger couple, he nodded.
"We met so many people that day, it's hard to remember who's who, but I vaguely remember the younger couple," Peter answered.
"They left early, as I recall, to get back to their little ones. Christy's sister was watching them, and she was going to go to the party when they returned home."
"You're right," Bob Landoch answered, "You've got a pretty good memory. I didn't remember you, but when Peter here told me he was Bill's cousin, then I did."
"We appreciate that you stopped for a few minutes to talk. Thank you." Peter said.
Bob quickly unrolled the blueprints, "Before you go, this is the house we are building. I believe this is one of the first homes with a telephone connection. So, all the modern conveniences, indoor plumbing, and electricity will be provided."
Peter whistled, "Now, that's the way to go!"
Melanie rolled her eyes, "Yes, a dream come true."
Peter laughed, "We must be close to Hope Valley, right?"
Bob nodded, "Just follow this road for about 4 miles, and you'll be in the area."
Peter shook Bob's hand, then took Melanie's hand as they returned to his automobile.
Peter asked, "Do you mind going to see Bill and Molly as long as we're close?"
"That sounds just fine with me."
As they got back on the road, they saw more houses being built, and it became obvious that the area was definitely growing. There were a few roads that they crossed and looking down them one could see the farms, but on this main road they saw houses.
Arriving in Hope Valley, they passed by boys practicing baseball, with a few girls sitting close to the baseball field watching the boys. There were also a few children swinging on the swings in the small park and fishing at the pond.
They pulled up to Billees. Peter jumped out to open the door for Melanie. When they walked in, they were greeted by Maggie.
"Oh hello! It's so great to see you!"
"Hello yourself, it's good to see you too. By any chance is Bill around?" Peter asked.
"He's not here now, but he's in town. Why don't you have a seat at a table and I'll bring you both some water. I'll ask Sam where Bill went."
With that, Maggie led the couple to a table and went back to the kitchen. Filling the glasses with water, she called to Sam, "Do you know where Bill is?"
"At the RCMP office, why?"
"Please telephone him and let him know his cousin is here with his lady friend."
When Maggie brought the water to the couple, she asked if they wanted anything to eat. Just having the picnic food they weren't that hungry, but the smell coming from the kitchen was changing their mind.
"Can I get you something to eat while Sam looks for Bill?"
It didn't take long, and Maggie had bowls of chili for Peter and Melanie.
"This is Bill's special recipe. Enjoy!"
When they were just finishing up the delicious chili, Bill walked up to them.
"Hey, look at you two! It's been quite a while," Bill said as he pulled out a chair to sit on. "What are you doing here?"
"Just taking a day away and driving. Saw some houses being built and found out we were close to Hope Valley, so we stopped by to say hello," Peter explained.
"Nice day for exploring." Bill turned and looked directly at Melanie, "How are you doing? Molly and I have been thinking about you."
Melanie smiled and rubbed Bill's hand. "Your cousin got me a job now."
"Wait, wait, you got the job, I just told you about it," Peter countered.
"Anyway, I'm doing well, thanks to Peter here. He's been a blessing for my mother too. He's still driving my brother, Gary, to his physical therapy. We're all very fond of him."
"Well, well, I didn't know you had it in you, being such a charmer," Bill laughed.
Molly walked in and spotted Bill talking to a couple in the corner. As she got closer, she grinned. "Hello there!"
Peter stood to greet Molly, but Bill pulled him down, "Don't do that, she'll expect me to."
Molly sat down too and asked if they wanted to stay, as the Hopefuls were showing a movie that very night. "It'll be fun, "Get Your Man" with Clara Bow will be shown."
Peter looked at Melanie, and she laughed, "Yes, we can stay. Mother doesn't want me home until she's in bed!"
Page 107
Dee was very proud of her husband, Sargent Nathan Grant. He was always a caring son, loving husband, and a wonderful father, but today when he dressed in his red serge, she beamed. After polishing his boots so shiny he could see his reflection, paying such careful attention to his attire so that that it was crisp and clean, she understood every time watching him carefully dress in his uniform, that he expected nothing less of complete professionalism of himself.
Dee loved him with all her heart for being the man he was. Not only was he loving with his family, but also deeply caring with his friends, and even strangers. At the same time when showing how good his heart was, he proved how brave and ready he was to defend his town. It was his actions, along with Constable Andy that apprehended the Salerno brothers who had been on the run for months. Now today, Nathan and Andy were being recognized for their outstanding work in capturing these long-sought-after men.
Walking over to her husband in their bedroom but cautious not to disturb his appearance, Dee couldn't help but plant a lipstick kiss on his cheek.
Nathan jumped out of his chair and teasingly scolded his wife, "Dee, what have you done!"
Quickly, she handed him a handkerchief she had been holding saying, "Let, me take care of that."
Nathan grabbed her wrist tenderly and smiling down at her he returned the kiss. Then taking the handkerchief, he walked over to look at his cheek in the mirror over their dresser and rubbed off the lipstick.
"The lipstick is gone, but the kiss still remains. Remind me when we get home later, where we left off," he winked.
"I promise!"
There were several high-ranking officers coming to Hope Valley in recognition of Nathan and Andy. Fiona had been behind the plans of the ceremony along with Bill and Lee. The stage inside of Billees had a huge red rug that Rosemary had selected, and Lee had William Andersson build wooden columns and painted them white for an added touch. Fiona and Rosemary had arranged for the Hopefuls to put up Canadian flags and streamers around the perimeter.
All of Hope Valley was expected to attend. Just like the last time when Nathan and Gunther had been rewarded for the apprehension of the train robbers, all of Hope Valley came. Nathan was proud of his young Constables...
The day before Andy was nervous. He never had to be the center of attention except for his graduation from Mountie school. His parents were already in town and staying at Billees, waiting for him. When they arrived the day before he was proud to introduce them to Sargent Grant and his family. What was so helpful was the gracious dinner at the Grants.
As usual Dee always invited the Constables over to join their family for dinner. It's certain that with Emily's cooking, it was known as a fact that her meals were always delicious. With Dee and Allie's help the ladies together cooked much better than any dinner the guys could come up with by far. Last night was no different.
His folks were relaxed and felt quite at home with the Grants. As expected, the goulash, biscuits, and Bavarian chocolate torte for dessert, was more than satisfying. The little ones warmed up to the guests, Kathleen and Michael Roberts during dinner. Soon after dinner Christopher showed them his collection of blocks his daddy had made for him.
"Oh, your son is such a charmer!" Kathleen grinned.
"Yes," Dee smiled, "he usually has all the women wrapped around his little finger."
"That's my boy!" Archie said proudly. Andy had already told his parents about Archie's dementia, so they nodded.
"Christopher sure has been exploring now," Nathan laughed while watching his son toddling around from person to person.
"Yes, he keeps us busy, that's for sure," Allie laughed.
Colleen was too excited to go to bed and just wanted to stay up and watch everyone. Once the Roberts excused themselves and left for Billees' hotel, Dee swept her up and went upstairs to get her ready for bed, while Nathan took care of Christopher. Allie was busy downstairs cleaning up the kitchen and Emily and Archie went to bed.
Upstairs, Dee finished nursing Colleen and put her to bed sound asleep. As she changed out of her clothes, she slipped on her nightgown, sat at her vanity and brushed out her hair. As she was wiping off her lipstick, Nathan came in and shut the door.
Dee turned and put her finger over her lips and pointed to Colleen. Nathan peeked in and gave her thumbs up. With a determined and seductive smile, he pulled Dee up from her chair and ran his fingers through her hair.
Staring deep into her eyes for a moment, his breath got hot, "I couldn't wait for everyone to leave. You look ravishing."
Dee giggled, "So Mr. Grant, I know what you are thinking, but you have a big day tomorrow and to be perfectly honest with you, I'm exhausted tonight. Can I please take a rain check?"
Nathan looked disappointed and heaved a heavy sigh, "You got a date sweetheart!"
Now, it was the day of the recognition. Nathan was leaving for the RCMP office before his family would meet him at Billees. He knew Dee had been watching him get ready and smiled to himself when she gave him her promise to pick up where they left off. What a lucky husband he was!
He went to the RCMP office and waited for the Staff Sargent and Inspector to arrive. They arrived within the hour and after privately congratulating Nathan, they walked over to Billees together. Bill Avery, who retired from the Mounties, knew these two men came over and greeted them. Nathan spotted Andy who was standing a few feet away and signaled him to join them. After the formalities, the wives were introduced, in which Nathan was quite happy to show off Dee.
The people came walking in and finding seats. Glancing around, Nathan spotted Allie holding Colleen and his dad holding Christopher sitting next to his mother, Emily. Fiona stood on the stage and welcomed everyone taking pride in her Mounties yet again.
Everyone watched as the Staff Sargent and Inspector came to the stage. Standing tall they sang "O Canada" with the people from Hope Valley. When the crowd sat back down, the Inspector informed everyone about the case that Nathan and Andy finished by catching the missing brothers. It was then that Bill stood up and introduced his cousin Peter and his girlfriend, Melanie, the victim.
Everyone clapped for Melanie. She shyly nodded and accepted their affirmation.
"Sargent Nathan Grant, please step up to receive a certificate of recognition of exemplary bravery acknowledged and signed by the Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police."
Nathan stepped up and saluted his superiors. As Nathan accepted his certificate, he had to stand there shaking hands with the Staff Sargent and Inspector for a photograph. Dee admired him from the crowd beaming. Colleen let out a loud burp, which caused the audience to break into laughter.
Next was the announcement for Constable Andrew Roberts. Nathan stayed on the stage to be with him and congratulating him, saluted and shook his hand. Andrew's parents stood up and clapped, which embarrassed Andy, but he appreciated it nonetheless.
There was a surprise for Andy when Gunther stepped out of the shadows to give his buddy a salute and a hug. Andy was thrilled to see him and quickly introduced his family to Gunther.
As usual, the Chickadees had planned a potluck at the Tuesday Bible Study for the ceremony. Luciana had coordinated the menu and the Hopefuls had helped set up the serving tables and made the coffee and lemonade.
The festivities were very enjoyable. It was a very satisfying and wholesome day for the town of Hope Valley. That night, the Grants all went to bed content and happy. Dee didn't forget her "promise" and made Nathan's day complete. Yes, it was a very full and memorable day!
Page 108
Lisa and Lana Peterson were both at Elsa Andersson's home describing what their dream wedding dress would look like. It was quite a fun visit as Elsa quickly sketched a few ideas for the girls to mull over. Elsa was a bit apprehensive of sewing their wedding dresses, but since she sold several dress designs displayed in the window of Dottie's Apparel, she was quite sought after. Lucky for her she was able to depend on the Lipinski girls to help care for her twin baby girls now that school was out as her designs were quite popular.
Elsa called her mother, "Mom, I am getting orders for summer dresses now, but I am afraid I might have bitten off more than I can handle. I'm asked to create and sew not just one wedding dress, but two!"
Ingrid listened to her daughter's apprehension, and a smile came to her face. She remembered how she had started out as a young seamstress. She knew exactly how wary Elsa felt.
"Honey, I truly understand how you must feel, but I think it's time for you to give it your very best. I think you'll surprise yourself how well you can handle this."
"Oh, I appreciate you having confidence in me, mother, but I never worked with fancy material, only cotton and never lace," Elsa sighed.
"When are the weddings?"
"Oh, it's a double wedding for two sisters in two months," Elsa explained.
It was quiet on the other end, and for a minute Elsa thought she lost connection with her mother.
Then in a cheerful voice, Ingrid spoke, "Elsa dear, would you like for me to come for a visit to help you? I quickly looked at the calendar and your father won't be too busy, so if I talk with him and he agrees, I'll make arrangements to purchase a train ticket and be out there within the week."
Elsa gulped and jumped up from her chair with a huge smile, "You would do that? For me?"
She was met with laughter as her mother replied, "Honey, I can spare the time to help and besides, it's time for me to see those granddaughters of mine!"
Elsa's voice cracked, "I love you, mom!" When she hung up the telephone, she swirled around the living room releasing her anxiety and replacing it with relief.
Meanwhile, Trevor Lana's fiancé, and Walter, Lisa's fiancé made arrangements with Fr. Ricardo requesting the date to be saved for their wedding. Both of the future wives were required to return with their fiancés for pre-Cana instructions. Fr. Ricardo explained that the couples should come separately as he wanted each couple to share anything that they were envisioning with their future spouse now.
In his past experience it proved best that he guided the couple with their true expectations now before they were married rather than be surprised after the wedding.
Neither groom was able to afford formal attire, but did get fitted for a handsome suit in Benson Hill's Menswear Clothing store.
"Walter, I'm not a dressy kind of guy working at the Auto Shop, so I don't know much about fancy clothes, so I'm counting on you to help me pick out a suit," Trevor admitted.
"Hey, don't think I'm an expert on suits, but sure let's go together," Walter agreed, "we'll kill two birds with one stone, and reserve a room for the reception at the Clubhouse while we're there."
Trevor sighed, "I know the girls want an elaborate reception, but I don't know how much I can afford."
Walter chuckled, "That cost is usually handled by the parents. Don't worry, my folks are helping out with that cost."
Trevor smiled, "That's mighty nice of them. I don't know if my folks will even be coming. I haven't heard back."
Trevor didn't explain the situation, so Walter just nodded and shrugged thinking this bit of news was probably more than Trevor wanted to say about the subject.
"Mrs. Grant is baking the cake, of course. So that's one more thing checked off," Walter confirmed.
"Oh, I forgot to tell Lana that Dr. Scholl offered to sing that night at the reception," Trevor announced, "I was pretty stoked about that. What do you think?"
Walter agreed, "That's perfect. Lisa will be thrilled, I'm sure!"
Back in Hope Valley, Fiona had called together a Town Hall meeting. All the local business folk were in attendance. Lee Coulter was the first one to speak when Fiona gaveled the meeting to order.
"As you all know, there have been plans to create a new development east of here close by. I have been asked to order lumber, hardware, shingles, and the like. The soil has been tested and engineers have designed the layout of the town. Electricity and telephone lines are following once the buildings' locations have been exactly determined. Indoor plumbing will also be automatically part of each business or home. Bob Landoch will be my foreman and manager for this exciting and huge project."
"Are you the only lumber company working on this?" Ned asked.
"No, it's too big for just my company. There will be other suppliers from Brookfield and Benson Hills. Perhaps, Clearwater too."
Fiona took the floor, "As you are being informed of this new town, which is full steam ahead, expect to see traffic continue in our town here. Mrs. Thornton has also shared with me that she expects enrollment at our school to increase. There will be challenges ahead to be sure."
Florence interrupted, asking, "Has the name of this town been decided yet?"
Fiona smiled, "I'm sorry, Fiona for not mentioning it sooner. Yes, the new town will be known as "Pine Grove."