All of the school children in Hope Valley bundled up before merrily rushing out of the schoolhouse and into the snowy December weather. It was the Friday before Christmas, and school was out until after the New Year. Kathryn’s eyes unexpectedly filled with tears as she watched Allie rush out with her friends. She had promised to let her go bake Christmas cookies with her friends until it was time for them to catch their train to Union City. That is, if Nathan made it home in time for their trip. He had been gone since Monday doing end of year evaluations for surrounding area Constables, he had been given charge over, soon after returning from their honeymoon. Although he was honored that Superintendent Lewis placed so much trust and confidence in him, he knew the hours would be longer and take him away from his new bride more frequently. Kathryn assured him they would find a balance, and it did ease both their minds to have a more stable arrangement for Allie when he did have to be out of town.
A light knock at the classroom door jolted Kathryn out of her thoughts. She quickly wiped the tears from her eyes and looked up to see her fellow teacher all bundled up and ready to go home. “Well, Elizabeth, we both survived the craziness of the final day before Christmas break. I hope you have a wonderful holiday. When does your train leave for Hamilton?”
Slipping into a chair, Elizabeth let out a deep breath. “We leave first thing in the morning, so I need to get home and finish packing. It’s always nerve wracking introducing a man to your family. I love Mike, and I am sure they will eventually feel the same. I just have this sneaking suspicion he is going to ask my father’s permission to marry me, and that has brought back so many mixed emotions.” She looked at Kathryn and tilted her head to study her coworker more closely. “Have you been crying? Is everything ok with Nathan?”
Trying to hold back more tears from falling, Kathryn sighed. “As far as I know he is just fine. He should be back at any time so we can catch our 6:00 train to Union City. I heard from him yesterday morning when he had to stop for shelter because of a storm, so he didn’t make it home yesterday like he had originally planned. I’m packed and so is Allie; hopefully the storm lets up and he is able to get here in time to clean up and go. I really am fine, just nervous and excited about our trip.”
Elizabeth nodded, a memory flashing through her mind, and with it came a twinge of sadness. “You know, I never actually got to experience a real Mountie Ball with Jack. A town emergency didn’t allow us to go the year he asked me to attend, so he made his own private ball for me here in Hope Valley. But I always heard how grand and elegant they are, and I know you will have a splendid time.”
“Thank you, Elizabeth. I know our relationship started out a bit rocky, but you have become a dear friend these past months. I’m so glad you have found happiness with Mike.” She pulled a rectangular box out of her basket on the desk and walked over to hand it to Elizabeth. “I got you a little something...well, Nathan helped me make it for you. I hope you have a very Merry Christmas.”
Looking curiously at the box, Elizabeth asked: “Should I open it now?” Kathryn nodded, so she untied the ribbon and inside found a nameplate for her desk that read: Mrs. Elizabeth Thornton: Hope Valley School est. 1919.
“It’s so beautiful, Kathryn. Thank you and thank Nathan for me as well.” She stood and hugged her fellow teacher, grateful for a friend who understood her love for instilling knowledge in young students. “I also have something for you, but it is at home, and I haven’t wrapped it yet. I’ll run it by before you leave. I better get home to my little boy and get to work with all my last-minute preparations. I’ll see you soon, but don’t stay here too long. The fire is about to burn out, and it is cold outside.”
She nodded and walked to the reception area of the school, where she sent Elizabeth out the door and on her way. Once alone inside the school, Kathryn sat at her mother’s piano and ran her fingers over the keys. She began by playing “Joy to the World” just the way her mother used to play it at Christmastime. Getting lost in the music, she then began her favorite carol “O Holy Night”, which she played with an enormous amount of feeling. When the song ended, she suddenly felt a rush of cold air and heard clapping. Turning around, a sob escaped her as she saw her very cold, but alive and well, handsome husband.
“Nathan,” she cried, rushing into his open arms. “I was so worried about you…” her words trailed off as Nathan took her face in his hands and covered her lips with his own in a kiss that quickly became passionate as they melted into each other. When they finally needed to breathe again, Kathryn buried her head into Nathan’s chest and held him tight. “You are still so cold. I’m glad the storm didn’t keep you any later, because we have a train to catch in only a few hours.”
Running his fingers through Kate’s hair, Nathan inhaled his wife’s apple blossom scent and sighed in contentment. “Just being in your arms is warming me up already,” he muttered, kissing the top of her head. “Get your coat and come with me to drop Newton off at the livery on our way home. Where’s our girl?”
Kathryn released Nathan from their embrace as she began bundling up and gathering her things. “Allie is baking cookies with her friends and promised to be back by 5:00 so we can all go to the train station together.” She made sure the fire was out and turned out all the lights as Nathan took her hand and led her to where his horse was tethered just outside the school.
“Mmmmm. So, I have you to myself for a few hours? What will we do with that kind of time alone together?” He winked and took her waist to help her onto the large animal; then mounted securely behind her, taking the reins and leading Newton back to his stall at the livery.
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“You definitely finished warming me up,” Nathan whispered fervidly in Kate’s ear. He kissed her bare shoulder and snuggled closer, enjoying their first alone time together since before he had left Monday morning. “It was absolute torture to be away from you all week, especially after having never spent a night away from you since we got married. How did things go with you and Allie while I was gone?”
Kathryn turned around to face her husband, her blonde curls spilling across the pillow as she ran her fingers through his unruly hair. “It actually went better than I expected. Remember, she is going through a lot of changes that contribute to mood swings. We had some good talks, and she was very respectful and helpful.”
Before he could respond, they heard the door downstairs close loudly. Nathan’s eyes darted to the clock which showed 4:00, a full hour before Allie was set to arrive back home. He jumped out of bed and quickly got dressed, as Kate began doing the same, both of them trying to suppress giggles at their teenage daughter interrupting their intimate time together. Nathan ran his fingers through his hair, still damp from his bath, to tame the curls falling on his forehead. He slipped from the room to surprise his daughter, leaving his wife to finish getting dressed and brushing her hair.
Allie was pouring a glass of milk to drink with the Christmas cookies she had just baked, when she heard the bottom stair creak loudly. Turning quickly, she squealed: “Dad! You made it back in time!” Rushing into her father’s arms, she held him tight for a moment then broke away and started chattering about everything that had happened during the week. “Come eat some cookies with me! I’m so excited for our trip to Union City. I’ve missed Thomas and Anne the past two weeks and can’t wait to see Elsie and tend her at the Clements’ house.” A small squeak from the bottom stair stopped their conversation abruptly.
“I’ve got to fix that,” Nathan grumbled. “No one can do any sneaking up on anyone with all that noise.”
Kathryn walked over to the kitchen table where Nathan was enjoying cookies and milk with Allie, and he swiftly pulled her onto his lap. Allie rolled her eyes and stood up. “You can have a cookie if you want. I need to make sure I’m finished packing.”
When Allie had gone up the stairs and closed the door to her room, Nathan looked curiously at Kate. “What was that about? I thought you said things between you two had gotten better.”
Leaning over and kissing him softly, Kathryn shrugged. “Trust me, she is experiencing many changes in her life right now and it isn’t personal. I just hope she reacts better than that to her Christmas gift. Bill brought me the official paperwork yesterday, and I already wrapped it up and put it under the tree. I know it has been somewhat difficult for her to learn to share you with me since we’ve been married, but I’m hoping with the adoption official she will actually see me as her real mom and not just her dad’s wife. I’m also her teacher, so maybe she needs a break from me sometimes. This week she not only missed you, but also Thomas, Anne, and Elsie. I think this Union City trip is just what we all need.”
“Absolutely,” Nathan agreed, enjoying the feel of Kate’s head against his shoulder as they sat together. “I can’t wait to see you all dressed up at the Mountie Ball. I’ve never gone before since I didn’t have a lady to escort, but this year is going to be very special.”
Kathryn smiled into his shoulder. Indeed, she thought to herself. She promptly stood and pulled him up. “Why don’t we make some sandwiches and snacks to take with us on the train?” They worked together making a picnic lunch for the three of them to share on their journey, all the while talking and laughing together.
They heard a knock at the door, and Kathryn excused herself to answer it. Elizabeth and little Jack stood on the porch, the little boy holding a beautifully wrapped box. “Oh good; I caught you before you left!” Elizabeth asserted. “Jack, can you give Mrs. Grant our gift?”
He handed the box to Kathryn and blurted: “Merry Christmas!”
“Why, thank you,” Kathryn replied. “Would you like to come in while I open it?”
Elizabeth shook her head. “I actually want you to wait and open it on Christmas.” She hugged Kathryn as Nathan walked up behind her.
“Hello, Elizabeth.” Nathan crouched down and held out his hand. “Surely this can’t be little Jack Thornton? Look how big you are getting!”
Jack giggled and shook Nathan’s hand. “Mountie Natan, I get to go on the train with Hickam!” All the adults chuckled at his enthusiasm.
“Have a great trip, buddy! Elizabeth, I want to wish you a Merry Christmas. Kathryn has enjoyed her time working with you, and it’s good to see you so happy with Mike. I know he is very much looking forward to meeting your family.”
“Thank you, it will be good to spend the holidays surrounded by loved ones.” Elizabeth and Jack began walking down the porch stairs, but she turned around when they reached the street. “You two enjoy that Mountie Ball and your time in Union City. I’m so glad we are all friends.” As they watched the Thorntons walk down the street to their house, Nathan put his arm around Kate and kissed the side of her head. His life had never been so full, and he was grateful.
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Even though he was tired from his long week away from Hope Valley, it was Nathan who sat awake on the train while Kate slept curled up next to him, her head in his lap. He twirled a strand of her hair with his finger while looking across at Allie, who was also sleeping soundly in her seat. He felt blessed but wasn’t sure he would ever get used to all the female hormones that had suddenly started bouncing around the Grant home. He was grateful that Kate had been around when Allie started exhibiting signs of becoming a woman, so she had someone to help her with things he just didn’t quite understand. But the transition to a family hadn’t been perfect by any means. Wanting to spend a lot of alone time together as newlyweds, while at the same time trying to meet the needs of a teenager with abandonment issues, was a work in progress. He hoped when Allie found out she was legally adopted by Kate, it would bring them all closer together. So many thoughts flooded his mind, but exhaustion finally overtook him, and he fell fast asleep.
Kathryn woke up suddenly as the train swerved, bringing a wave of nausea as her head pounded. She quickly slipped into a small washroom where she patted cool water on her face. Of all the times to get a migraine, she lamented. She had to sturdy herself as she felt the big engine sway back and forth. Trying to keep herself from getting sick on the train, she felt relieved when they finally came to a stop. Breathing through the pain, she hurried back out to her seat, where Nathan and Allie were just stirring awake. Everyone stood and grabbed their bags, but Kathryn could only attempt to shield her eyes from the light.
“Oh no, love,” Nathan apologized, understanding clearly what was going on. “You haven’t had a migraine since the last night of our honeymoon. Let me carry you to the car we have waiting for us. Allie, can you take Kate’s bag please?”
Allie stood and stretched, putting a bag on each shoulder. She exited the train closely behind her parents. “Is she ok?” she asked Nathan in a worried tone. “Will she feel better in time for the Mountie Ball?”
“I’m ok, sweetie,” Kathryn assured her. “I’m sure I’ll feel better after some rest and the tea Faith gave me. I brought some just in case this happened.”
Jim was waiting for the Grants in the train station and helped them with the luggage. “Mr. and Mrs. Grant, Miss Allie. Oh dear, is everything alright?”
“Hello Jim,” greeted Nathan. “My poor wife just has a bad headache and needs to get to the Clements’ home as quickly as possible.”
“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that,” Jim apologized as they walked to the car. “I will get you there as fast as safety will allow me.” Allie sat up front with their friendly driver, while Nathan continued to hold Kate close to him in the back seat and worked to keep her steady so she wouldn’t get motion sick. True to his word, Jim got them safely to where they were staying in a very timely manner. By the time they arrived, Kathryn insisted she felt well enough to walk inside and say hello to everyone before going to bed.
Thomas and Anne welcomed the Grants, along with Anne’s parents John and Mae. Allie was disappointed Elsie had already gone to bed, but it was late by the time they arrived. After exchanging pleasantries, Nathan insisted on getting Kate straight to bed.
Anne offered to make her tea and took it up right as Kathryn was getting tucked into bed by her husband. Their beautiful guest room was only lit by a small lamp to keep the lighting low so as not to aggravate the migraine. “I’m so excited you are here,” Anne exclaimed softly. “I can’t wait for the ball tomorrow evening. I hope you feel better after this tea and a good night’s sleep.”
“Thank you,” Kathryn said between sips. “This one isn’t that bad; it is already subsiding as I rest.” She turned to Nathan and suggested: “Why don’t you go read to Allie and make sure she is settled. I’ll finish my tea and try to go to sleep.”
Nathan agreed and kissed Kate’s forehead before leaving the room, following Anne to where Allie would be sleeping for the next few days. He knocked on the door and barely heard a muffled, “Come in”. Once inside, he found Allie crying on the bed. “Oh, Dad, I don’t know what is wrong with me. I haven’t always treated Miss...um Kathryn...very well since she joined our family. I’m not even sure she even wants to be my mom anymore. And now she’s sick when you were both so excited for the Mountie Ball.”
Sitting down on the bed next to his daughter, Nathan pulled her close and kissed her on the top of her head like he had done nearly every night since she came to live with him as a small girl. “Of course she wants to be your mother, and she loves you very much. We are all going through a huge transition that requires a lot of adjustments along the way. Not to mention other changes happening to you.”
“Dad!” Allie screeched, horrified to be discussing such things with her father. “I’m definitely grateful for another woman in the house to help me through that, no offense.”
Nathan chuckled and pulled out a book he had brought with him. “Well, I hope you still let me read to you when I’m around.” She nodded and snuggled closer to him, listening to him read until she fell sound asleep.
Returning to a pitch-black room, Nathan did his best to undress and slip under the covers without crashing into anything. He heard Kate’s even breathing next to him and was relieved she had fallen asleep so easily. Realizing how tired he was after a long week of travel, Nathan soon drifted off and dreamed about being at the Ball dancing with the most gorgeous woman in attendance.
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When Kathryn woke up, her head was no longer pounding, but her stomach felt unsettled. She wrapped up in her robe and slowly found her way down to the kitchen. She made herself a piece of toast and a cup of peppermint tea to settle her stomach. As she was just finishing up, Maggie came in and was startled to see anyone there so early. “I apologize, Maggie. I just haven’t been feeling well since last night, so I wanted some tea and toast. It has helped immensely.” She gave the older woman a big hug. “I best get back to my husband and rest a little more. I hope to catch up with you while we are here.”
“It’s so good to see you, Miss Kathryn.” Maggie smiled. “I can’t wait to see your good-looking husband again. It was so lovely to see you both during your honeymoon, and you look as if marriage still agrees with you.”
Kathryn blushed. “It has definitely been the best three months of my life so far. I’m glad we were able to stop by when we were in town. I’ll see you at breakfast.”
Upstairs, Nathan turned over and felt the bed next to him. When he discovered it was empty, he sat up and turned on the lamp next to the bed. “Kate?” he called, waiting for his eyes to adjust. Before he could even get up, the bedroom door opened and in walked his lovely bride of three months, looking much better than she had the night before. “There you are. I was about to send out a search party. How are you feeling?”
“Much better,” she acknowledged, hopping back into bed and smothering him in kisses. “How did I get so lucky to find someone who makes me this happy?” She placed a kiss on his neck as she played with the hair on his chest that peeked through the unbuttoned Henley he wore.
Now fully awake, Nathan pulled Kate into his arms and kissed her tenderly. “I am the lucky one, my love. Which reminds me, I have an early Christmas gift for you to use tonight. Would you like it now?”
“Mmmmhmmm,” Kathryn murmured, watching him pull a small, wrapped box off the nightstand. She opened the box and put her hand over her mouth when she saw a stunning emerald pendant and earring set. “Oh my goodness, Nathan. They are simply stunning and will match my dress perfectly tonight. Thank you.” She leaned over to give him a heartfelt kiss.
“I thought it was time you got a brand-new set of emeralds to match your beautiful eyes.” He set the box back on the nightstand, and they both relaxed back into the covers contentedly.
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As evening approached, Nathan and Thomas decided to dress in their uniforms in one room while Anne and Kathryn got their hair and makeup done in another, right before dressing in their ball gowns. They were both excited about the dresses Anne had found for them while shopping with her mother earlier in the week.
Both Mounties stood in their nicest red serge uniforms at the bottom of the stairs, waiting for their wives to emerge. Anne’s parents, along with Allie holding baby Elsie, also watched in anticipation. An audible gasp could be heard as the two sisters-in-law made their way down the stairs in their incredible frocks. Anne was dressed in red that matched her husband’s serge, and the dress featured an overlay bodice with ornate details that were also on the bottom hemline. As she reached her family, Thomas kissed her, Elsie cooed her approval, and her parents beamed with pride.
Nathan could barely breathe when he saw Kate in the exquisite dark green ball gown with embroidery detail throughout and stunning gold beadwork and details on the bodice and down the sleeves. He was impressed with how well the jewelry set he had purchased for her matched the dress and admired her pinned-up hair with gold sparkly barrettes. Stepping forward to greet her, he held out a dozen red roses which she smelled deeply, before handing them off to Maggie who promised to put them in water right away. “You look incredible, Kate,” Nathan breathed next to her face, before kissing her cheek and then her lips.
“I must say, you clean up nicely yourself, Inspector Grant.” Kathryn straightened his serge and took the coat and arm he offered her.
Both couples were driven to the fancy hotel by Jim. All four of them took in the glorious sight of the ornately decorated ballroom with wonder and awe. They mingled with superiors and other Mountie friends they knew, but Kathryn was mostly thrilled to finally meet men she knew had a major influence on her husband’s life. Anne was able to see many friends she had made while Thomas had been stationed in Union City. Finding their seats at a table in the back, they were able to eat one of the most delicious meals any of them had ever experienced. Appropriately, a beautifully decorated red velvet cake was served for dessert. Many couples made their way to the dance floor as they finished eating. Thomas and Anne were among the first to waltz around the room.
Nathan stood and offered his hand to Kate. “May I have this dance, m’lady?”
“Of course,” Kathryn laughed, feeling like she was living in a dream. They made such a striking couple, many in attendance stopped and stared when they saw the two of them dancing together. After a few songs, they were both parched and made their way to the punch bowl.
While waiting in line, a very important-looking man came up and shook Nathan’s hand. “So, this is your lovely wife? I have been wanting to meet the woman who finally captured your heart, Inspector. Mrs. Grant, I am Superintendent Lewis. I have such admiration and respect for your husband. He is one of the best Mounties I’ve ever known.”
Taking his extended hand, Kathryn grinned. “I think he’s definitely a keeper. But I also know he has great esteem for you as well. It is so good to be here. Thank you for this magnificent event.”
“I’m glad you were finally able to get Nathan to one of these things. You both enjoy,” he said, moving on to greet others.
Time flew by quickly as they danced and mingled in their own little fairytale. Before they knew it, the clock struck 10:00 and Jim had come to take them home. Everyone chatted excitedly all the way back to the Clements’. Thomas and Anne rushed inside to baby Elsie so they could feed and put her to bed. Allie, who had been allowed to stay up later than usual, peppered her parents with questions about the illustrious Mountie Ball. They talked until she was yawning nonstop, then Nathan offered to take her to bed while Kathryn went to their bedroom.
Once Allie had fallen asleep, Nathan returned to his room unbuttoning his serge and expecting to find his wife ready for bed. To his surprise, Kate was still in her dress sitting in an oversized chair. She was holding a tiny gift box, her unpinned hair flowing over her shoulders and down her back. “I thought you would go right to bed after such a long day, love,” he commented, kneeling in front of her, his serge and Henley now completely unbuttoned.
“I have an early Christmas gift for you as well,” she said, glowing. “I just couldn’t wait.” Kathryn stood and led Nathan to the bed, where they both sat on the edge as she handed him the box.
Trying to read her mind with his impressive Mountie instincts, he eagerly opened the box. Inside was a single wooden Christmas ornament with the painted words Daddy, I love you! Your Baby Arriving in August 1920. He was confused for a split second, then the meaning hit him like a ton of bricks. “Are you serious? A baby? Our baby?” Tears were streaming down both of their faces as Kathryn nodded and Nathan picked her up and twirled her around before laying her softly on the bed. He kissed her lips then moved his head to her still, very-flat stomach and kissed it tenderly. “Baby, are you in there? I am your daddy.” A sob escaped his throat as he let his emotions flow freely. “Kate, this is the most wonderful gift I’ve ever received,” he admitted, his voice cracking. “Tell me everything. When did you find out?”
“I will tell you everything,” Kathryn promised. “If you will first get me out of this dress. It was fun for a while, but now I can barely breathe.” Nathan began undoing the corset back, then gently helped her take it off so she could get into her nightgown. He finished taking off his uniform, and once they were both comfortably ready for bed, they snuggled close in bed to talk.
Nathan ran his fingers up and down Kate’s arm, marveling at the wonder of a new life they had created together. “Now tell me everything. I’m guessing you found out while I was gone last week. Have you gone to see Faith?”
Leaning her head on his shoulder, Kathryn began filling in the details. “After you left on Monday, I realized my cycle was off and I was late by over a week. At first, I thought nothing of it because during times of stress it had happened to me before. I ignored it at first, but by Wednesday I started getting nauseous both early in the morning and late at night. Then it hit me that I might actually be expecting a baby. After school on Thursday, Allie went to do homework with Opal and Emily, so I stopped in to see Faith at the infirmary. Sure enough, she confirmed the pregnancy. It started making sense why I had been so emotional and nauseous, but I could still hardly believe it. I knew it would be difficult to keep for you, especially since Faith warned me that sometimes a person who suffers migraines could get them more regularly during pregnancy. Luckily, she had a tea that is all natural and helps with headaches, so I am glad I brought some with me here. I thought about waiting and telling you on Christmas, but tonight was so special that it just felt right. I painted this ornament Thursday night and have held onto it, knowing this moment would be one of the most memorable ones of our entire life. Merry Christmas, my love.”
Taking it all in and contemplating their little miracle growing inside the most incredible woman he had ever known; Nathan placed his large hand over Kate’s stomach. “All I’ve ever wanted is to be a husband and father. I love being Allie’s dad, but this is different. A child created from our love is such a blessing. I promise to do whatever it takes to always be here for you, Allie, and this new baby. I just hope I can be a good father.”
Taking his head in her hands, Kathryn looked into Nathan’s bright blue eyes. “Nathan, you are already an amazing father to Allie, and this baby is so lucky to have you. I’m lucky to have you.” She kissed away his fears, and they fell asleep in each other’s arms, overjoyed at the prospect of their expanding family.
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Both the Grants and the Bradshaws traveled back home to Hope Valley together on Tuesday, after spending a few days enjoying all the city had to offer in the way of Christmas activities and concerts. But they all wanted to be home for Christmas Eve on Wednesday and of course, for Christmas Day. Nathan and Kathryn kept their secret between the two of them, with plans to let others know soon, beginning with Allie on Christmas morning. They knew once she was told, word would spread pretty rapidly. Kathryn’s morning (and night) sickness was getting worse, so it would just be easier to avoid rumors and put it out in the open.
Back home, Christmas preparations were in full swing. Allie went to practice with the rest of the school children to sing in the Christmas Eve program at the church service. While she was gone, Nathan and Kathryn prepared her final gift and placed it under the tree. They wrapped their gifts to each other while the other was busy or in town running errands.
Snow lightly fell as Hope Valley residents gathered in the church for an uplifting Christmas Eve service put on by Pastor Joseph and many talented musicians, including Kathryn with a piano solo arrangement of “What Child is This”. Her heart overflowed with pure joy that she would soon be embarking on the journey of motherhood, just like Christ’s mother Mary. Many tears were shed as the children sang a beautiful medley of carols, accompanied by Angela Canfield and directed by her mother Minnie. Joseph read the Christmas story from The Holy Bible, while many of the younger children acted out the nativity. Snow was starting to pile up as everyone rushed home from the church, creating a magical feel to the holiday.
Back at home, Nathan, Kathryn, and Allie all dressed in their warm pajamas and settled by the fireplace for their traditional reading of “A Christmas Carol”. They ate snacks and drank hot chocolate, each taking turns reading then eating. When they were finished, Kathryn brought a gift from under the tree and gave it to Allie.
“I want you to open this tonight,” she insisted. Nathan nodded his approval.
Allie looked at both adults, wondering what was so important to open before Christmas Day. It was a folder, and when Allie read the contents, she jumped up and nearly crushed Kathryn and Nathan in a big hug. “You’re officially my mom now?” she cried. “Mom...I like that. I’ve been wanting to call you that for a while, but I just didn’t know how to bring it up. Thank you for marrying my dad and making us a complete family. I love you, Mom.”
Kathryn just let the tears fall freely and embraced her daughter, who was also wiping her own tears away. Nathan observed the two most important women in his life finally able to freely express their feelings for one another. He secretly hoped their baby was a boy so it would even the score a bit, but regardless, he couldn’t wait to reveal their news to Allie. Tired and overwhelmed, they all finally went to bed.
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Even more snow had fallen when they all woke up Christmas morning, and Allie couldn’t wait to go play in the snow with her friends. Kathryn had gotten up earlier than the others to make herself peppermint tea and toast before she got too sick. She made cinnamon rolls, which had been a Bradshaw family Christmas morning tradition during her growing up years.
“What is that incredible smell?” Nathan asked as he emerged in the kitchen, engulfing his wife in his arms from behind and kissing her neck. Kathryn explained the tradition, and he agreed it was one that the Grant family could keep going.
After eating breakfast, they sat near the tree to enjoy opening gifts. Nathan gave Allie a new charm for her bracelet, and some new books she had been wanting to read. Kathryn gave her new daughter a dress from a shop in Union City, and a locket with a picture of the three of them from the wedding.
Nathan gave Kathryn new sheet music to play on the piano, and a large wedding picture he had built a frame for with “True Love” etched in the bottom, surrounded by roses similar to the ones on their bed headboard. “Your woodworking talent is truly incredible. Thank you.” She gave him a quick kiss.
After giving Nathan some new woodworking tools he had been eyeing for weeks, she gave Allie the signal to go get Nathan’s gift from the two of them that was hidden in her room. A big bow was placed on a case that held a beautiful new guitar. “I know you have talked about wanting to start playing again, so we got this for you. I hope you like it!” Nathan picked up the instrument and tuned it the best he could. Allie and Kathryn marveled at the way he immediately seemed to pick out Silent Night and they all joined him in singing. “Is there anything you can’t do, my talented husband?” Looking embarrassed, Nathan turned his attention to their last gift to Allie.
“We have one last surprise for you, Allie girl.” Nathan could barely contain his excitement as he handed Allie the wrapped package.
Looking inquisitively at her parents, Allie opened up the box. She pulled out a frame with “Big Sister” inscribed at the top. Inside the frame held a paper that said: Your Baby Brother or Sister will Arrive in August 1920. Allie shrieked happily. “You are having a baby?! This is the best gift I’ve ever been given in my entire life!” A big group hug ensued, and they all joyfully celebrated together. “Wait, can we go tell Thomas, Anne, and Elsie right now?”
They agreed to go over after getting dressed. It was then that Kathryn remembered the gift from Elizabeth that was stuck behind the tree. While Allie and Nathan were upstairs getting ready, she opened the box and took out the note sitting on top:
Dear Kathryn,
After observing you over the past couple of weeks and seeing you coming out of the infirmary on Thursday with a look of shock mixed with elation, I’ve gathered that you are most likely expecting a bundle of joy in the coming months. Congratulations! I recently learned how to knit, and this is my first attempt at a baby blanket. It isn’t perfect, but it was made with love. Merry Christmas!
Love,
Elizabeth
Kathryn picked up the white and yellow blanket and held it to her chest. In a way, she was glad Elizabeth knew, and felt grateful for the friendship they now shared. She immediately took it up to show Nathan, and he agreed that it was one of the most thoughtful things they could remember being done for them. As soon as they were all ready, they walked over to Thomas and Anne’s row house.
Allie spilled the beans to the Bradshaws, who were all ecstatic at the news of the impending arrival of a fourth member of The Grant Family. Nathan held baby Elsie and couldn’t believe that soon he would be holding his own little one. A year ago, he couldn’t have imagined his life would be this blessed, and joy filled. He had endured heartache and disappointment for most of his life; but now Nathan Grant had all that was truly important and vowed to never take it for granted.
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