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Nathan & Elizabeth: An Epic Love
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Chapter Twenty-Eight
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Promotions
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Part II
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"We are willing to make Hope Valley your base, surrounding you with a strong core staff here. However, let me be perfectly clear: in this position, you are responsible for the entire team of Mountie Inspectors throughout all of Canada. So, there will be some periodic travel involved, though, when possible, we encourage your family to travel with you if they are so inclined."
"But, Sir, I'm not qualified to do this."
"The Commissioner and I completely disagree, Inspector Grant. Based on your ethics and excellent work, you are the most qualified and trustworthy member of our entire force. My job is to get you to see that. So, let's start back at the beginning. Shall we?"
"I have six men with me today. First Staff Sergeant Finn Valen, one of our best Trainers from Regina, who happened to take five excellent men under his wing while they were in Training at Depot there. If you accept this position, in which we feel you will best serve us, Staff Sergeant Valen will assume your Constable position as of today, with a staff of two under him right here in Hope Valley: Constable Andrew Taylor, known as Drew, and Constable Zane Morgan."
"Hallelujah, finally some help!" enthused Bill.
Hal smiled but continued on very seriously.
"However, we also realize, you must also have a core staff in this new, demanding position, so we have brought Corporal Peyton Hubbard, Corporal Jacques Landry, and Corporal Alex O'Reilly. If you are willing, the six men will be having lunch with you and me today at noon. After that lunch, I will ask you to conduct interviews with the three corporals so you can select one to be promoted to Special Sergeant, and that person will be your personal assistant to never leave your side. My own personal assistant, Sergeant Major Christian Bernard, along with Patrick's Staff Sergeant Major Blake Hadley, will assist in the training of your own assistant while also serving as continuing and constant support staff."
"I see you have made quite a commitment in personnel for this plan to work, Sir!"
"Indeed, we have, and we are willing to commit much more. Chief Superintendent Patrick O'Reilly thinks highly of you and has already committed to help acclimate you personally, in whatever way you need, with the two of you working side-by-side, together when possible, and of course, long-distance when not. As Patrick can tell you, committing to be over a division that is country-wide is most daunting, but he can also attest that with the right team, it is more than doable. We are promising you the ability and resources for you to find your own right team, Nathan, which will, at your discretion, eventually include your own team of Special Inspectors that will help assist you with the top cases nationwide."
The Deputy Commissioner paused for a moment to let that sink in, then began again.
"Nathan, we sent you to Union City, Buxton, Benson Hills, Brookfield, and Rock Creek, as well as the other places surrounding you over the last few weeks as a test to see how you would handle things, and you've done remarkably well in those endeavors, inspiring the personnel by example, tying things together that we never could have. The feedback was phenomenal. We know you are the right choice. In fact, we have chosen you as our only choice. The second and third on our original list don't compare and were removed long ago."
"You should know that Finn, as your Hope Valley Staff Sergeant, is very capable of taking on anything you need him to do within the area. He runs a tight ship and can be your intermediary for all the Staff Sergeants if needed unless you prefer them to report directly to you, which is generally the norm. In other words, we are giving you a staff that is flexible according to whatever needs you might have, whether on a temporary basis or more permanently."
"Also, in full disclosure, our current Chief Inspector was planning to retire 6 months from now but instead is requiring emergency back surgery and therefore has requested immediate retirement, ASAP, in order to undergo the surgery and begin the long arduous recovery process. We sincerely regret that 6-month buffer is no longer an option to offer you for gradual training. But the Commissioner and I do give you our word that we will fill all your needs and give you 100% of our support. So much so we have provided you with temporary offices over Bill's Office, and we have already started looking at land with Bill for a permanent brand-new Mountie Facility that would end up being our Center for Inspection, morphed into whatever you need it to be, along with the goal of ultimately creating it to be one of the best Forensics and Investigative hubs in the world."
"This is a dream, perhaps even beyond a dream. I just…I just don't know what to say."
"Well, if I may interrupt, I do know what to say – this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Son. One I would have given my eyeteeth for back in the day," emphasized Bill. "The RCMP need you now, and this is the role they need you to bear. It's an opportunity to shape things like no other, Nathan. And you know how to lead and do that better than anyone I've ever worked with."
"Bill is right on all counts. I know enough about you to know that money isn't a determining factor, but the pay scale you would be entering is significantly above what it is now, at least for the hour, as an Inspector's pay scale. A secure vehicle is also included. I don't know if you have noticed or not, but it happens to be that brand new luxury black and white beauty I drove in, hoping to leave with you. We need you, Nathan, as our Chief Inspector, and we will not leave you out in left field. Instead, we give you our word, the Commissioner, and I will support you with everything we've got."
"Sir, I am currently reporting to Superintendent Andrew Hargreaves. If I make this change, who would I be reporting to?"
"Directly to me, Son, and of course, the Commissioner, as do I. The Commissioner will be the only one above both of us."
"Sir, I don't know how to say this, but I came across something yesterday that I must give you. I must also tell you that Bill and I expect Superintendent Hargreaves to arrive for an unscheduled visit this Friday."
The Deputy Commissioner reared back and chuckled.
"You just proved beyond any doubt that you are made for this top job I am offering you. I also know that Hargreaves is coming this Friday, although he doesn't know I know! But it's quite impressive that you two figured it out without access to my team and their intel! This is strictly confidential and is to never be uttered period, but Superintendent Hargreaves's actions are being monitored 24:7 as we speak and have been for quite some time."
"Then this becomes even more important, Sir!"
Hal glanced over the notebook, shocked to see the drawing of Hargreaves on the last page.
"This is appalling! Genuinely appalling that he would be so bold to be abusing his job like this!"
Both Nathan and Bill could feel Hal's anger and disgust, and rightfully so.
"I just can't believe our intel didn't pick up on any of this! But it does remind me of one other thing I need to mention. I suppose you both can tell we are doing a new territory carve-out of the surrounding area around Hope Valley, relieving Superintendent Hargreaves of quite a significant area for obvious reasons. We know he has been sniffing around, and we believe we've caught and stopped the leak between offices. In fact, we have picked up on a lot of abnormal activity in Cape Fullerton, which means we will need to add that into this area, if not permanently, at least temporarily. Can you see that as being doable?"
"I believe so, Sir, especially if that is where the action is…"
After Bill and Nathan filled Hal Blevins in on their Romani Gypsy situation last week, Nathan filled in both men on the details of his arrest of Marius on his way to Buxton.
"I purposely left Marius at Buxton, believing he won't talk for a few days. And knowing you were coming, I wanted to discuss the matter with you, Deputy Commissioner, while leaving us with the privacy to do so. We can alter anything as you wish, but I felt I needed to fully brief you first in order for you to best know what to decide."
"I appreciate that, and you've done exactly what I would have done in the same situation. But Nathan, what made you look through the notebook in the first place? Most Constables would have collected it and thrown it in the evidence locker without ever having looked at it in any detail except to have thumbed through it."
"I could never do that, Sir! I have to know what I'm dealing with. And so, I looked through each and every page and realized the notebook was full of sketches of the stolen goods I had just seen in the caravan. I had to see each page to confirm. But I never expected that sketch of Hargreaves on the last page."
"Do you realize that sketch alone gives us so much ammunition? Now we just have to catch him in the act, but he is definitely their frontman, their fencer. And my team had never once considered the gypsy caravans as being involved with him! Wonder what percentage he's getting as a kickback?" (*70)
"What Nathan isn't telling you, Hal, is that he has a photographic memory."
"I've never said that, Bill!"
"Nathan, you don't have to. I've seen you use it time and again without ever sayin' a single word about it!"
"Is that true, Son?"
"It's not something I talk about, but, yes, Sir, it is true. If I see something once, it stays with me."
"That's why you put these cases together so easily! This is just phenomenal! We desperately need you, Nathan! This talent of yours is just a bonus! But what a bonus to have as an Inspector, and specifically a Chief Inspector! Will you excuse me a moment?"
"Of course, Sir," and Nathan stood, still rumpled from delivery Daisy's calves earlier this morning, saluting his superior as he left the room.
"Nathan, I don't see how you say no to this. Elizabeth has already given her answer along with her full support. I'm tellin' you, this is a job made for you!"
"And you really think I can do it, Bill?"
"No, I don't 'think' it! I KNOW it, beyond a single shadow of a doubt! You just think what we could do together!"
"You're sure?"
"As sure as the sun rises in the mornin' and sets at night! Nathan, if you don't say yes to this and give it a try, take it from someone who knows you'll regret it for the rest of your life."
"You'll be there for me?"
"You don't even have to ask. I'm gonna be right there beside you the whole way. Hal understands we are a dynamite team together, and we can't be broken!"
Nathan nodded, weighing Bill's words against his own instincts.
Bill could see the moment when the decision was made, a grin tugging at the edges of his mouth.
Nathan walked over to the window and saw that Elizabeth, Allie, and Jack were inside the Café and realized all over again he was making the right decision, not only for himself, but for them.
First, in this job, he could support his new family in any lifestyle they would wish to live without any financial concerns. Second, he would not be in the line of fire on a daily basis like he had been before, eliminating much of Elizabeth's worry. And third, their home could remain in Hope Valley while being able to travel across the country whenever they wished.
Beyond all the excitement of the infinite possibilities, this being his dream job and a perfect fit, Nathan marveled that Hope Valley would get the benefit of housing a central Investigative and Forensics Center of the highest caliber that would bring jobs and revenue into the community, as well as protection beyond that of anywhere else.
"Nathan, here is your Inspector's Uniform on the left and your Chief Inspector's Uniform on the right. Take your time, Son, and choose wisely. Then let me know which one it will be," directed the Deputy Commissioner.
In perfect French, Nathan gave his clear, immediate, and precise answer, communicating it as accurately and succinctly as possible.
"Maintiens le droit!" (*71)
"Maintiens le droit! With extreme pride and honor, and on behalf of our Commissioner, welcome to the Elite Rank and Division of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Chief Inspector Grant…" (*72)
"Gratefully, we are running right on schedule, Bill," smiled Hal, who had already given Bill the signal to call Elizabeth and the kids waiting at the Café.
They were waiting for Nathan to clean up and fully dress in his brand-new Chief Inspector's Uniform.
Since Bill was watching for their guests, he stepped outside and held up his finger to his mouth, as he wanted his family to be a surprise for Nathan, then ushered them in.
Hal silently greeted Elizabeth and the children, in an effort to keep their surprise, but it was obvious both Hal and the family immediately liked each other.
Jack wanted to talk to his Uncle Bill, so instead the Judge picked Jack up and held him, but Elizabeth knew what her son really wanted was to run and see his Papa!
She understood it completely because she herself was having difficulty breathing, knowing Nathan was so very close.
Allie seemed to be the only one who had it together, though she was excited as could be, sure that her Papa was getting a significant promotion.
But when Nathan stepped into the doorway in his new Chief Inspector's uniform, all bedlam broke loose.
Jack slid himself down from Bill's arms and immediately ran to Nathan, calling 'Papa, Papa!'
Allie walked to him, too, and kissed him on his cheek with her proud remarks.
"Congratulations, Papa! This is the best! You so deserve a promotion, and I'm so excited to see what it is. Just wait till I tell Gramma and Grappa! We're all so proud of you!"
"Don't think I could have done it without you, Sweetheart," he whispered. "We've been through a lot with the Mounties, you and me! You've always been there through thick and thin, Allison Rose, and I can tell you that's meant the world to me!"
Which left Elizabeth, their eyes having already met.
Instead of pushing the children away, which would have been impossible since Nathan had such a tight grip on the both of them, Elizabeth simply nestled between them, reaching for this man she loved so infinitely. Not caring that they weren't alone, she kissed him with all the feeling she had inside her, letting him know that no matter what, they were indeed a team of two, and of four, and hopefully very soon, many more!
"May I say, Chief Inspector Grant, I've never met a lovelier family!" enthused Hal earnestly.
All Nathan could do was beam and nod in agreement.
"And I've never known a Chief Inspector, or any other officer for that matter, wear the uniform so well!"
"Come stand by me, and not that I think I could tear them away, but I'd like your family to stand with you, too, just as you are right at this moment. The four of you together are too beautiful to change a thing. And Bill, do you mind being my photographer and snap a few photos?"
"My pleasure! Just show me where!"
Hal showed Bill the shutter button, and then, after a moment of anticipatory quiet, he began the private ceremony of promotion.
"On behalf of Commissioner Conrad Donaghy and myself, by the authority vested in me as your Deputy Commissioner, it is our distinct honor and privilege to hereby commission and promote the now Inspector Nathan M. Grant to Chief Inspector Nathan M. Grant in all that he does from this moment forward. This commission and promotion is a testament to Chief Inspector Grant's diligence, leadership, and commitment to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, our country and its citizens we serve. At this time, may I present you with your brand-new insignia and badge?"
The Deputy Commissioner then placed the insignia and badge on his Chief Inspector's newly crisp uniform.
"Hearty congratulations and well wishes for a long life of service upheld with the highest degree of honor, pride, and integrity. God Be with You! May He give you wisdom and keep you safe in the Palm of his Almighty Hand! Maintiens le droit!"
"The honor and privilege are mine. Thank you, Sir! Maintiens le droit!"
"The honor and privilege belong to us, Chief Inspector. You've already made us proud, and we have no doubt you will continue to do so in a masterful and significant way! Again, always with honor, pride, and integrity!"
Here, the Deputy Commissioner shook the Chief Inspector's hand, drawing him into a warm embrace.
In that embrace, Elizabeth realized the two men were already close, bound together as a unit, and she was very pleased, as there was no more internal darkness to fight for this man she loved, only light, intrigue, support, and wonder!
The new Chief Inspector, but more importantly her Nathan, turned as if to tell her she was the most important thing in the world to him, and the couple beautifully kissed, honoring this most profound, significant, and life-changing moment just experienced by this honorable man and now, his family…
As Elizabeth took Allie and Jack with her to meet Rosemary and Goldie at the Café, the men sat down once more for Hal to brief Nathan regarding lunch protocol.
"Oh, no! Elizabeth mentioning that they're having lunch with Rosemary just reminded me. She cannot print any of this until after Friday," insisted Bill.
"Glad you caught that – absolutely nothing goes out till after we've dealt with Hargreaves! And that's an order. Are you foreseeing a problem?"
"She can be as pig-headed as they come!" griped Bill.
"Just tell her we're giving her an exclusive on the condition she holds it for her Weekend viewers, where she'll have a good 40% higher viewership," interjected Nathan. "The woman listens to numbers! Throw in a personal interview with the three of us, and you've got a sure deal!"
"Nathan, this is a compilation of information on your staff, and I've had Christian include photos for easy recognition," explained Hal.
Nathan studied the summary with both Hal and Bill watching. Bill knew that Nathan was committing it all to memory and would be done in a matter of minutes, while Hal just sat there amazed.
"There's a 6-month gap here with Finn from graduation till he assumed his Training Position. Do we know the reason?"
"He experienced much the same as you did in that his sister died just after his graduation in a tragic accident. She attended his graduation and was just lovely, but she was gone two weeks later, thrown by a horse she was breaking. She wasn't married, so there were no children involved, but he had a difficult time, as the job he had just taken was teaching the Horsemanship classes. Like you, too, she was his only sister."
"I'm so sorry. That must have been extremely difficult for him…"
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70. "Fencer," a person who buys stolen goods for the purpose of selling them for profit; a middleman between thieves and eventual buyers who may not be aware the goods are stolen. Have been mentioned in literature and legal documents since at least 1770. Public Domain Information.
71-72. "Maintiens le droit," the official motto of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, first advocated in 1873 and adopted 2 years later, translated from the French to mean "Uphold the Right." Public Domain.