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Nathan & Elizabeth: An Epic Love
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Chapter Fifty-three
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Saturday Surprises:
Bridal Shopping, Baseball Heroes,
Honeymoon Prep,
Riding Date Plans
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Part III
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Mademoiselle Vivienne Grace, the owner of Regal Grace, Elizabeth's and now Allie's favorite shoppe in Buxton, had located three designer Wedding Gowns that had originally come straight from Paris to be delivered to a friend's shoppe in Union City and held there till Elizabeth could visit.
"All three of them, I believe will work perfectly for you, Mrs. Thornton, based on the styles you love! All three are also perfect for a Garden Wedding as well. You really can't go wrong with any of them. It's just a matter of which one speaks to you as your dream gown! I can't wait to hear what you think of them. But remember this! You are under no obligation whatsoever to select any of them. I don't want any of my Brides to feel pressure of any sort. Shop in as many shoppes as you can while you are in Union City and if you find something you like better, go with what you love! I'll help with whatever you need! Just let me know. Oh, and if for some reason you aren't blown away by any of the three, that's okay too, as my friend does a large wedding business, and she is more than happy to add them to her own collection of gowns. Just relax and enjoy your shopping!"
"Oh, my goodness, Elizabeth! This is one swanky shoppe. Who knew Mademoiselle Grace was so well connected!" exclaimed Rosemary, totally impressed before the shopping duo had even entered the Bridal Shoppe known as 'Happily Ever After!'
To their delight, the owner, Mademoiselle Isabella Montague, met them at the door and personally welcomed them as they introduced themselves.
"Welcome, I am Isabella, and this is my Bridal Shoppe. We strive to be the best in all of Canada! My dear friend Vivienne called from Buxton requesting that I show you three of the loveliest gowns I've ever seen that originally came straight from Paris and are so beautifully unique. I'm glad I am not deciding as I'm afraid this is going to be most difficult! But enough of that, let's get you both seated, and I will have my models parade for you as an initial viewing. Then, you can decide what to try from there. Colette, can you please bring us some nibbles and chilled champagne, please?"
"But of course, Mademoiselle Montague! My pleasure."
"This is such a lovely shoppe, Isabella. You should be very proud," complimented Elizabeth.
"I am thoroughly impressed, and I will admit having lived in New York City, it takes a lot to impress me as far as fashion shoppes go, but your shoppe definitely does!"
"That is very good to hear, Madame Coulter. It so pleases me! Let's walk to our promenade and get you both comfortably situated."
The tray of food brought out was exquisite, making the ladies feel so very pampered, and Isabella herself filled their flutes with champagne.
"I do want you to feel free after our little show to look through everything. But since Vivienne told me your Wedding venue is a Wild Rose Garden, I've taken the liberty to select several possible options for your Bridal Party to go with each Gown."
"Oh, that sounds wonderful!" exclaimed Elizabeth. "Rosemary is Matron Honor and is very opinionated, so this will help us tremendously, I'm sure!"
"Well, I always say if one is going to the trouble to do something, it must be perfect! And a wedding goes even beyond that, as it must be perfectly perfect!" insisted Rosemary.
"Ladies, let's begin our magnificent private Bridal Show!"
Elizabeth and Rosemary both squealed with delight.
"Rosemary, I can't believe we are here, actually choosing my Wedding Gown!"
"Well, if you ask me, it's way past time! But I'm positively thrilled for you both, Elizabeth! I don't think I've ever been so excited about a Wedding in my life. Well, except for Lee's and mine, of course, but you know what I mean!"
Elizabeth chuckled.
"I know exactly what you mean, Rosemary! I'm so excited just to be here, and I can't wait to see what our choices are! This is the lifetime that's always been meant for me, and I can't wait to begin living it!"
"Spoken like a true loving Bride, Mrs. Thornton."
"Please, it's Elizabeth!"
"And Rosemary, too!"
"Lovely, Elizabeth and Rosemary, it is!"
The first Bridal model came out and literally took both the Bride's and the Matron of Honor's breaths away!
"Oh, my goodness! Vivienne was right – could this be any more beautiful!" exclaimed Rosemary.
"This first gown is elegantly simple and obviously has lace roses, so it's perfect for your garden wedding. It has a graceful A-line Empire gathered multi-layered tuille skirt with the same multi-layered built-in tuille Court Train. It has somewhat of a sheer bodice with strategically placed lace appliques. The actual bodice is a low-cut v-neck that is more heavily appliqued than the rest of the gown. The sleeves are built in to cover the shoulders in appliques and then are scattered all the way down to form three-quarter-length sleeves. The back of the gown is a surprise in that it is somewhat sheer but with the traditional Bridal buttons down the back that we typically see. And as you can see, there are a few dimensional appliques scattered partially down the 'light as air skirt,' which will move beautifully with you as you dance!"
"I love it!" exclaimed Elizabeth. "It's truly beautiful and so different, too!"
"I've paired the Bridal gown with the three similarly styled options surrounding our Bride in order to let you see various possible options."
"They are all stunning. Elizabeth, I would be more than proud to wear any one of the three!"
"Oh, Rosemary, they are all so beautiful! How in the world are we going to decide between the three?"
"Well, Madame, we actually have nine gowns that I've selected as options for your Attendants. I can only assure you that it all gets better and better! Thank you, Models. Will you please send out the models for Set II?"
Both Elizabeth and Rosemary gasped with delight as the second Bride gracefully walked out to the center of the platform, with her three Attendants following.
"The second gown has a little more detail, given the extensive lace beading. The gown is quite unusual and in a class of its own, as it is a Trumpet-Modified Mermaid gown with a beautiful V Neck of lace and is mostly covered in the same beaded lace I just mentioned. However, much of the long sleeves are beautifully sheer for a summer Garden Wedding. It has a longer Court Train that flares out at the bottom in lace-covered tulle and sweeps out far behind. However, in order to manage it properly outdoors so it doesn't get caught on any of nature's surprises, it can be swept to the side and secretly buttoned just above the knee, where it looks every bit as stunning!"
"It's just stunning. Truly stunning," insisted the Bride. "I mean, how can one select between the two Bridal gowns, much less the matching attendant gowns?"
"And so are the three matching gowns just as stunning. Elizabeth, you are getting no argument whatsoever from me, whichever gown you choose! Even the one you prefer for your three Attendants! I even love the rose print. It's so very different but still ever so elegant," declared Rosemary.
"Well, Ladies, perhaps we should show you our showstopper before you make any decisions. Because I must warn you, especially, Elizabeth…it is an absolute work of art in its simplicity and as Parisienne as it gets! Oh, it takes me home to Paris every single time I catch a glimpse of it as it is pure, refined elegance! Can you please send out our Set III Finale models?"
The models quickly exited to make room for those in the finale set.
"Ladies, I present to you our finale of the three luscious couture Gowns from Paris."
There was dead silence as the Bride and her Attendants arrived and took center stage on the models' platform. Even Rosemary was at a total loss for words!
Though it didn't take long for the Bride to find her most definitive voice.
"This is it! This is my gown! I love the wild roses of embroidered lace of the bodice and sleeves, juxtapositioned with the simple, but regal, elegance of the rich, rich satin of the skirt. I like that there are no gimmicks, just pure elegance and simplicity, with the roses dropping down so beautifully on the skirt. The gown and veil are absolute garden perfection, and both are exactly what I want Nathan to see me in as I walk to him!"
"You have made the most perfect choice, Elizabeth!"
"But Isabella, I do have two questions. This is so stunning, but there's nothing covering the upper back. Is it too scandalous? The bare back is not quite so noticeable with the veil, but then does the veil take away from the design?"
"No, not at all scandalous, Elizabeth! In the past, ballgowns have been cut much lower, and now that we are in the twenties, we are seeing more and more scooped backless designs even in the shorter dresses. In this incredible design, since everything is so simple, the unique way the back is cut is the true highlight, tying all the design elements together! Also, the wide built-in waist cumberband will be covering quite a bit of your lower back. Honestly, at first, I was also concerned about the veil covering the backless portion, but would our bride please turn around? Note how they have appliqued the veil edges but have left only a single beautiful layer of sheer tuille as the actual veil so that the open back is clearly seen, though slightly shadowed in a bit of mystery, which is positively exquisite!"
"Isabella is right. Those appliques look hand-made. And Elizabeth, you simply cannot destroy that splendid back. It is the stand-out part of the gown and pure perfection!
"Oh, Rosemary, excellent eye! The roses are all indeed hand-tatted!" assured Isabella.
"I can't believe the gown appears to be completely fitted with lace at the waist in the front but ends up in the back with that surprise wide cut of the waist and lace overlay. Well, it's just an amazing design! And don't get me started on that wide-pleated skirt of solid satin, which is just stunningly rich! I think regal is the word! Or even majestic! Yet, I can't get over the fact that it's still perfect for a Garden Wedding!" declared Rosemary.
"It truly is amazing how the designer accomplished all that, but they most certainly did!" agreed Isabella. "This gown is my own personal favorite by far!"
"Oh, Elizabeth, you are going to look positively exquisite in it," beamed Rosemary. "And look, the embroidered gown for us Attendants! It has the same embroidered wild roses that look so real, being three-dimensional all over the gown from head to toe! And that dropped shoulder-style is positively to die for! Oh, my! Both are positively exquisite, Elizabeth. We couldn't possibly do better!"
"I have a little surprise about the Attendant's gowns. Since it's a Garden Wedding, I found a shop in Montreal that has this very same gown in every garden color you can imagine. Here are the swatches so you can see the colors you prefer. But I thought it would be beautiful to have each attendant in her favorite garden color, from coral to pink to blue to lavender, even yellow and green if you prefer that!"
"Oh, Elizabeth, I positively love that idea!" exclaimed Rosemary. "Each unique, but all stunning!"
"The whole concept sounds perfect! But can you get the colors we need?"
"I'm a little embarrassed, but I fell so in love with them that I bought the whole lot! They are on the Train now and should be delivered by tomorrow or, at the very latest, the next day! We'll take care of all the alterations to match the sizes you need. Oh, and I have matching shoes for the Bridal Gown as well as the Attendant's gowns. We also have a version of the Attendant gown that covers both shoulders a bit higher, if you prefer, perhaps for a younger Attendant. Though personally, I believe the style should be the same for all since we are going to vary the colors."
"I agree, and I'm sure my daughter will much prefer hers being the same style as everyone else's. Of the three, she's my only younger Attendant."
"Oh, I almost forgot. Will you be having a flower girl?"
"Absolutely, and she will be my youngest Attendant by far!" winked Elizabeth. "I want her to walk down the aisle with Jack. Will Goldie be okay with that?"
"Oh, Elizabeth, she will be elated! Positively elated. Her very first Wedding!" exclaimed Rosemary while clutching her heart.
"How is this perfect little garden-themed dress to blend and match with the Bride and her Attendants?" asked Isabella.
"All of it couldn't be more perfect," beamed Elizabeth. "Here, let me get you sizes for everyone. And definitely, the shoes, too, with little evening bags if you have them."
"That we do, and they are all as exquisite as what you've just seen!"
"There's no comparison that I have ever seen for the Bride and the Attendants," declared Rosemary. "There is just no question, Elizabeth! Now, let's move on to the negligees and undies!"
Thrilled with their enthusiasm, Isabella chuckled.
"But wait, Ladies! I do believe we first need to fit our beautiful Bride into her magnificent Wedding Gown…"
Back in Hope Valley, Allie gave Angela a detailed play-by-play throughout the game. At the end, to the girls' delight, the Ty Cobb Team won by a landslide, particularly with the added help of Zane, along with Alex and Peyton who more than carried their weight.
Jacques had been unable to play for Jack's team because he had twisted his ankle on the Cabin step. When Alex and Peyton went to look at it, they thought it was better to rest it so that it would be 100% for work on Monday.
Finn and Andrew helped Bill out, and though they knew what they were doing, especially with each other, and both were excellent playing together, their team wasn't quite as good at communicating, taking a huge hit in the scoring department!
"You guys all did great," complimented Allie. "But Papa's going to be so proud when he hears about the big win for the Ty Cobb team!"
"I got a new ball, glove, and bat," bragged Jack. "Papa gave it to me!"
"Yeah, but Papa's got to give you a few lessons first, Jack!" reminded Allie.
"We'll have you out there on the field before you know it, Mountie Jack!" grinned Alex, which satisfied Jack to no end.
"Hey, would you all like to meet us at the Café? We're going to celebrate our big win!" enticed Peyton, to which Angela immediately responded with a robust yes.
But instead of meeting at the Café as he had just mentioned, Peyton decided to offer his arm to Angela, and the two took off together ahead of everyone, to their joint delight.
Behind them, Alex escorted Allie and Jack with Zane, the star, and a limping Jacques along behind them, while Finn and Andrew soon caught up. Not to mention Allie and Jack's Security Team bringing up the rear.
"Was Uncle Bill really upset," asked Allie, turning back to ask Finn.
"Oh, on a scale of 1-10, I'd say about a twenty!"
Allie giggled, and the guys chuckled.
"Boy, that man takes his baseball seriously!" noted Andrew.
"Oh, wait till you see our Papa, Andrew! He and Uncle Bill go for the jugular when it comes to their baseball teams. Believe me, you guys will see soon enough, and whatever you do, my advice is you don't want to get caught in those crosshairs…"
With his Security Team driving him to the restaurant to meet Elizabeth and the Coulters, Nathan was drained from his lengthy interrogation of Casimir Shaw. There was so much tragedy there within his and his son's lives, not to mention his colleague's lives, but more importantly, in the lives they had criminally assaulted.
Still, one couldn't be human and not experience profound sadness when assigning two men to their respective prisons. Perhaps even more so when it was father and son.
He closed his eyes a moment, leaning his head against the back of his car seat, then ran both hands through his hair, feeling completely drained. A lot had happened in a week's time. And even more was going to happen during this coming weeks' time.
"Wonderful things are coming," whispered Nathan aloud as though to reassure himself.
What he wouldn't give to see Elizabeth alone before dinner, even if it was just for a few moments. This was one of those times when he needed her strength, and he wasn't ashamed to admit that.
Given that the Bride had chosen the fancy French restaurant because it was not only her favorite Union City Restaurant but also the Matron of Honor's, the men had no choice but to acquiesce. Luckily, though, both men actually enjoyed French food!
"Oh, Reid, I almost forgot! I need to stop by the hotel, 'Les Jardins d'Ici.'"
"Not a problem, Sir! I believe we are very close to it! Will have you there in a matter of minutes…
Nathan, given his great looks and striking uniform, which embarrassingly announced to everyone his newly designated importance within the Mounties, was met at the front entrance of the Grand Hotel by the Concierge, determined to ensure first-class treatment.
Reid and James stayed a respectful distance behind but were ever aware of their surroundings.
"Bonjour, I am Chief Inspector Nathan Grant, and I called earlier this week about reserving either your Honeymoon Suite or Presidential Suite for next weekend beginning on Friday night. The gentleman I spoke with suggested I stop by to see both suites in person before I made my final decision."
"Very wise, Sir. They are both quite opulent but quite different!"
Nathan had already checked to make sure Elizabeth hadn't stayed here when she had attended her book reading, and he was very relieved to find out that she hadn't. This was the most luxurious hotel Union City had to offer, and he wanted everything perfect for their Wedding night.
"Mais, oui, Sir! Allow me to show you both suites personally. Please follow me!" (*128)
Ever observant, Nathan noticed the beauty surrounding them as the man escorted him, Reid, and James up to the first suite.
"This first accommodation is the Bridal Suite, Sir, on our 10th floor."
"It's very beautiful."
"Yes. It is, Sir! But wait till you see our Presidential/Premier Suite, which is on our 12th Penthouse floor. The view of the city, gardens, and river are absolutely stunning from there."
After touring the Bridal Suite, Nathan got back on the elevator, this time going all the way to the top floor.
"The view overlooking our garden lobby from here is also beautiful! It should be since it is where we got our name! And then, of course, our wall of windows, allowing the night sky in, is quite amazing as well!"
"Welcome to our Presidential Suite, Sir. Our very best accommodations in the entire hotel."
"The rooms are stunning and at least twice as large as the Honeymoon Suite," noted Nathan. "But you are right, Sir! The views are superb from wherever one looks, and this huge private terrace simply can't be beaten. The bed is monstrous, too, though exquisitely so, and I must say I love the idea of not being cramped for once in my life as far as bed length!"
"You are, indeed, correct, Sir! And everything is decorated in the finest French antiques mixed with elegant modern French pieces that I'm sure your Bride will very much appreciate!"
"Sir, the gentleman I spoke with never mentioned the fees for either suite. Could you expound on that?"
"No need, Sir! That's all been taken care of. Chief Inspector, 'Les Jardins d'Ici,' has been instructed to offer you whichever suite you prefer for three nights, Sir!"
"But I don't understand…"
"No, Sir, it is done as we all insist! The dates are already booked; we've just been waiting for you to let us know your preference as to suites."
"Definitely the Presidential Suite! I know my new wife will love it! Thank you, Sir. All this is most appreciated! But is it possible to speak with the manager?"
And then Nathan remembered as Reid cleared his throat at the entrance into the suite.
"Sir, I'm afraid I need to make reservations for my Security Team as well."
"We have already been briefed all about that, Sir, and were just waiting on your decision. Everything will be taken care of, and I assure you Headquarter's Security Standards will all be met, as we already have our instructions. And as an added precaution, you and your team will be the only ones on this floor during the length of your entire stay!"
"I can't tell you what a relief that is, but you must send me the bill," insisted Nathan.
"I'm afraid that's quite impossible, as it's all taken care of, Sir…"
Back in the stunning Lobby, the Concierge introduced the Chief Inspector to the Hotel's Manager, Pierre Lambert.
"Welcome, Chief Inspector! How can I be of service to you?"
"I have just made a booking for my Wedding Weekend, but when I asked about rates, I was told the matter had already been taken care of. However, I much prefer to pay for everything myself. And I am quite puzzled as very few, if any, people know about my plans to make the booking at this particular establishment. Can you please share with me how this kindness came about? And more particularly, who is responsible for said payment?"
"I'm so sorry, I haven't been told who the Benefactor is, but I do seem to remember that a letter was left, addressed to you! Perhaps that might shed some light on the matter. If you'll excuse me, I'll go retrieve the letter."
"Thank you, Sir!"
Nathan relaxed somewhat, feeling certain that this letter would clarify the matter enough for him to correct it.
He understood a father wanting to pay for the Wedding, but not the Wedding Night, as that was clearly the Groom's responsibility as far as he was concerned.
"Here it is, Sir!"
"Thank you!"
Nathan took the letter and immediately opened the envelope, totally expecting one thing but finding quite another!
Surprisingly, inside were two of the kindest and most heartfelt handwritten letters, instead of one, both personally signed!
Instantly, upon reading them, the concern on his face vanished, first replaced by one of utter surprise. Then later, upon finishing them, his infamous yet amazed and delighted lop-sided grin appeared, as Nathan Grant was very happy indeed, as well as deeply touched.
He placed both letters back into the envelope, then held it up before placing it in an inside pocket of his uniform.
"Monsieur Lambert, I cannot thank you enough for this!"
"My absolute pleasure, Sir..."
Back at the Café in Hope Valley, the Baseball crew had found booths and were settled, except for Jacques, who was having trouble figuring out how to elevate his ankle.
Alex nudged Allie.
"Look at those two," he whispered. "In a booth all their own."
"Yikes, and Miss Minnie just saw. I love her so much, but she can be super protective of Angela, and I get it. But Angela also has to live her life. It's a little hard. But they're both trying. Especially since she'll be going to school this fall, and I'll still be here."
"Peyton won't want to hear that, but I'm certainly glad to hear you'll be staying!"
Allie blushed as the others all joined in with several conversations going on at once around the table, including Jack chattering away.
"Here Jacques, stick it up on this chair," instructed Finn, right at the time Dr. Carter walked in.
"What is this? Do I have an injured patient? Is this a baseball injury?"
"Hi Faith!" smiled Finn. "We wish! No, our resident clutz twisted his ankle on the steps of the Canfield Cabin and didn't even get to play. Needless to say, we have a very unhappy Judge!"
"Oh my! Here, let me see, Jacques."
After feeling to make sure there were no broken bones, she carefully twisted his ankle in one direction, then the next.
"I think it's just a sprain. But it wouldn't hurt when we're through grabbing a bite to eat, to follow me over to my office, and let me wrap it properly. If we do that, and you stay off it as much as possible, it should be good as new by Monday!"
"But how am I going to get there," whined Jacques.
"I'll carry you if I have to!" and Finn rolled his eyes, which caused Faith to break out laughing.
"Hey, since this patient of ours absconded with my chair, want to find a new booth and grab a bite of dinner, Doctor?"
"I'd love that! But I warn you, I am completely starved."
"Oh, and allow me to properly introduce myself," grinned Finn.
"Finn, we've known each other now for almost a week!"
"Not like this, we haven't," and Finn thrust out his large hand and took her tiny one. "Finn Valen, here, and I'm your new handsome neighbor, Faith!"
"Are you serious? I mean, yes, to the handsome part, but did you really take the apartment over me?"
"I sure did! And I couldn't be happier! Plus, the way I see it, there's a definite bonus to that place, Dr. Carter."
"There is?"
Finn chuckled.
"That would be our beautiful town doctor!"
"Why, Finn Valen, did you just give me a flirty compliment?"
"That I did! Well-warranted too! Anyway, I'm buying dinner or whatever this is."
"Oh, this is definitely dinner. Remember, I'm starved! But wait a minute! Is this a date?"
"When you're going to order everything on the menu? And I'm paying for it? Absolutely, it's a date!"
Faith burst out laughing, and everyone in the restaurant noticed their Doctor seemed happier than she had been in a very long time, not to mention their new Staff Sergeant…
When the limousine finally arrived at the Bride's chosen restaurant, Café de Paris, Nathan couldn't believe that it was as though his Elizabeth had heard his plea, as she was standing outside with security, smiling broadly, waiting for him.
That alone meant the world to him.
He hurried out of the car, walking briskly to get to her, giving her a kiss and warm embrace.
But instantly, she knew.
"Darling, what's wrong?"
"Is there a place we can talk for a couple of minutes?"
"Of course, come follow me!"
Elizabeth led him into the restaurant entry area and through to a double door on the far side.
"Lucky us, we have the private dining room, which means this anteroom is ours as well. What is it, Love?"
"First, is this private?"
"Very…"
But before she could complete her sentence, both had sought out each other's lips and hung on for dear life.
"Nathan, Baby, are you alright?"
"Just a rough interrogation. It went well, but it was tragic, and that's really all I can say. The whole process of interrogating, along with all the awful stories, and then committing two men to prison just left me feeling so drained, and that's not like me. I just needed you. I'm okay now, Darling! I promise."
"Well, I'm not sure you can be okay that quickly after something like what you've just described. But at least we are together, and that has to count for something!"
"That, my Love, counts for everything! I love you so much, Lizbeth! How did your Bridal shopping go?"
"Splendidly, Love! Everything is being boxed up as we speak and will be sent by train tonight. Though the Attendants' gowns are being delivered from Montreal in a day or so. Lee has promised to pick up everything being sent tonight for me after we get home."
"I can do that for you!"
"You absolutely cannot do that for me, dearest Groom of mine! Talk about tragic bad luck. We do not want to tempt fate on that one!" she giggled.
He chuckled.
"One quick thing! Will you go riding with me tomorrow? I have something I want to show you. Besides, poor Newton is going to forget who I am!"
"You're missing the big guy, aren't you?"
"That, and the Love of my Life!"
"In that precise order?"
"Oh, that's a tough one…" he teased.
Well, I think we can both be there for you tomorrow! I've been so busy I've neglected Sergeant, too. So, it will be a great break for all of us: two lovers and their horses!"
"Now, I like the sound of that! Then it's a riding date, my Love…"
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128. "Mais, oui," French translation to English meaning 'But, yes,' 'Yes,' or 'Obviously.' Public Domain Information.