I don't own anything. I just come here for fun.

.

.

Trouble. Allie and the topic of boys was nothing but trouble for Nathan. He tried his best to be a good listener and help Allie sort her feelings - but give her dating advice? He was out of his depth.

Nathan sighed as he watched Robert and Allie walk out of town towards the row houses. He would have asked Elizab- Mrs. Thornton for help but that friendship was delicate and he wasn't ready to invite her back into their lives.

"You look like you are solving the world's problems".

Nathan turned to see Fiona standing beside him on the boardwalk. He laughed, "Not doing a good job at solving any of them".

Fiona smiled while gesturing down the street. "Allie and Robert look like they may be getting close".

"Too close" Nathan muttered, enjoying the sound of her laugh as it rang out. He continued, "It's getting more and more complicated to keep up with her and the emotions"

"Young love can be confusing," Fiona said.

Nathan sighed. "I don't know how to help her. I've never been good with women. I don't know about - ya know - ladies things. But I do know enough to not trust the boys."

Fiona smiled reassuringly. "You know, if Allie needs someone to talk to I'd be happy to chat with her. I do have many siblings and I'm full of advice"

Nathan took a longer look at Fiona while she spoke and tried to recall what he knew about her. She was a confident woman - ready to take on any challenge - including oil derricks. Forging her own way. He wanted that type of future for Allie, who better to try to help than someone already paving their own way.

Fiona continued, Although Florence may warn you that I'm a little too liberal - being from San Francisco and all. Some people think - ".

"I'd love your help" Nathan interrupted.

Fiona smiled. "Great. I'll casually cross paths with her in the next day or so". Fiona stepped down onto the road. "But I warn you, I can't report back. Us ladies must have some secrets".

Nathan laughed and watched Fiona walk to the dress shop. Maybe he could cross paths with Fiona more often.