Nathan pulled at his collar, feeling a little stifled. He wasn't used to wearing a tie except at the occasional wedding. Lucas noticed the motion and glanced in the rearview mirror with a laugh. "It's a tie, Nathan, not a noose."

"Could have fooled me," Nathan said, pulling it loose with a sigh of relief. He met Lucas's eyes in the mirror. "I don't know how you wear these things all the time."

"I don't," Lucas said smoothly. "I generally wear an ascot, not ties."

Nathan raised a brow. "Same concept. The thing goes around your neck and makes it feel like something's constantly choking you."

Elizabeth and Fiona chuckled. Fiona looked back at him from her place next to Lucas, grinning. "You realize you're going to have to put that back on when we get to the concert hall, right?"

Nathan undid the top two buttons on his shirt, finally feeling like he could breathe again. "Yes, I realize that. But as long as I don't have to wear it until then, I'll be just fine."

Elizabeth chuckled, kissing his cheek. "You always have to have those couple buttons undone. I first noticed that at Jack's baptism. Everyone else was wearing ties with their outfit, and you simply had your shirt and jacket, with your buttons not done up at the very top." She grinned at him. "How in the world do you manage with your red serge jacket?"

"That's different," Nathan said, though he had to admit that he didn't like how it felt against his neck. He couldn't wait to take it off at the end of each day when he got home. He fidgeted slightly, wanting to get the attention off of him. Noticing that Lucas and Fiona had started talking about something they had just seen pass by, he turned to Elizabeth, placing an arm around her. "Have I told you yet that you look stunning today?"

Elizabeth smiled, smoothing the folds of her peach dress, the same one she'd worn for Jesse and Clara's wedding. She looked up at him. "And you look very handsome. Even if you hate your tie." She brushed a tiny piece of lint from his suit jacket. "Isn't this the same suit you wore to the wedding?"

He nodded. Elizabeth leaned her head against his shoulder. "Dark blue suits you very well," she said quietly. "It goes so well with your eyes."

Nathan chuckled. "My sister used to say that all the time. She would always make me wear blue to events." He looked down at his suit. "Apparently that stuck with me."

"She sounds like a very wise sister," Elizabeth said. Nathan could feel her smiling against his shoulder. He pressed a kiss to her head, then looked out the window at the passing scenery. He'd never ridden as a passenger in a car before, so this new experience was a fascinating one for him. The countryside flew by, nearly making him dizzy. He loved riding Newton, but even he had to admit that a car was much more convenient for driving long distances.

After a while, they pulled up to their hotel. Nathan stuck his tie in his jacket pocket, then climbed out of the car, turning to help Elizabeth.

Lucas took the cane Fiona handed to him, using it to walk. Nathan hid a smile. Lucas complained about the cane, but Nathan thought it lent him a distinguished air. Clearly Fiona thought the same. She watched him walk with it, admiration in her eyes.

Elizabeth nudged her. "Your heart eyes are showing."

Fiona laughed. "Let them show. I want the world to know that I am in love with Lucas Bouchard."

Lucas, oblivious to their conversation, turned and waved them along. "Let's get checked in, and then we'll go to dinner."

Once they were checked in, Nathan tried to carry their luggage to the rooms, but Lucas stopped him. "They have bellhops for that," he said.

"They have what?" Nathan asked.

Lucas pointed to a young man in a hotel uniform who was walking toward them with a rolling carrier. "This is a high end hotel. You don't have to carry your own suitcases."

Nathan blinked. "But…"

Lucas smiled. "Just go with it, Nathan. This is a nice, once-in-a-while experience. Enjoy it."

Nathan watched as their luggage was loaded on the moving carrier and rolled away by the bellhop. He wasn't sure how he felt about that. Elizabeth took his arm, giggling. "You know you wear your emotions on your face, right?"

He smiled, shaking his head. "And here I thought I was a closed book."

Lucas tried to hide a laugh, and it came out as a snort. Nathan shot him a look. Lucas smiled unapologetically. "Nathan, people can always tell exactly how you're feeling. You couldn't hide your emotions if you tried." His smile turned into a grin. "Right now, for instance, you're feeling supremely uncomfortable and out of place. A fish out of water, if you will."

"Not helping!" Nathan said, smiling in spite of himself.

Lucas held out his arm to Fiona, and the four of them walked to the hotel restaurant. Nathan stared at the large, elaborate dining room, mouth hanging open. He'd never seen such a fancy place to eat in his life. He was used to the cafe or the saloon. This high society hotel and fancy dining was not something he'd ever experienced before. He knew his three companions had all been to places like this before. Elizabeth had grown up in this kind of society.

He leaned close to her, speaking softly. "Do you miss this, Elizabeth?"

She looked up at him, a peaceful smile on her face "Sometimes. But if I ever had to pick between Hope Valley and something like this, I'd choose Hope Valley every time." She squeezed his arm. "But I am very glad you chose to come with us, Nathan. I'm glad we get to experience this together."

Nathan straightened a little, a smile forming on his face. "That means a lot to me, Elizabeth. I'm glad we get to experience this together too." He chuckled wryly. "Even if I feel like a fish out of water, as Lucas so eloquently put it."

Their waiter seated them, and Nathan looked at the multitude of silverware sitting on the table in front of him. "Uh…"

Elizabeth patted his arm. "Don't worry, I'll point out the correct utensil when the time comes."

"Thank you," he whispered, thankful that she was here to guide him through these unfamiliar waters.

Lucas leaned back in his chair, the cane propped against his side. "This restaurant has a unique dining experience," he said. "There's no menu. They have a full five course meal, and it's different each day. It's always excellent."

"Have you all been here before?" Nathan asked.

"I have," Fiona said. "Only once, and it was on my way to Hope Valley."

"I've been to restaurants like this, but never this particular one," Elizabeth said. "But I like the concept of a surprise meal. There's not a whole lot I don't like, so this should be fun." She looked at Nathan, her head tilted. "I don't think I've ever asked you if there are any foods you don't like."

He smiled. "I've never met food I don't like," he said. "Unless we're talking about my own cooking."

That earned him a round of laughter from his friends, and it had the added benefit of making him feel more at ease. They might be dressed up and sitting in a fancy restaurant, but they were still simply four friends from Hope Valley who were enjoying a night on the town. Nathan suddenly felt relaxed, and he hoped the feeling would last. He glanced at Elizabeth and saw that she was looking at him. Their eyes met and held, and they got lost in each other's gaze. Nathan smiled and took her hand.

He felt like he could do anything with her beside him. Even navigate a night of high society life.

Elizabeth sighed as the orchestra played the final notes, swept away in the beauty and romance of the music. She clapped along with the rest of the audience. The concert had been wonderful.

She glanced at Nathan, who was clapping along beside her, wearing a wide smile. It was clear the music had touched him as well. He hadn't pulled at his tie once during the entire performance. She would be willing to bet he had forgotten he was wearing it. Elizabeth couldn't remember ever seeing him so spellbound.

As they walked arm-in-arm out of the theater, she leaned closer to him. "What did you think?"

He shook his head, looked slightly awed. "That was the most beautiful music I've ever heard," he said, his voice reflecting his amazement.

They waited for their car to be brought around by the valet, and Lucas looked over at Nathan from his spot next to Fiona. "What did you think of your evening in society, Nathan?" he asked.

"Everything has been incredible," Nathan admitted. "The dinner had some of the best food I've ever eaten, and that concert was mind blowing. I didn't realize music could be so awe inspiring." He grinned. "I don't even mind that I had to dress up and wear a tie."

That elicited chuckles from their companions. Nathan smiled along with them. "This is a wonderful evening," he said. "Thank you for convincing me to come. I enjoyed it immensely."

"Excellent," Lucas said as the car pulled up. They all piled in, then he glanced back at Nathan. "It's nice to get out once in a while."

Nathan nodded his agreement. Elizabeth placed her head on his shoulder as they drove back to the hotel. "I'm glad you had a good time, Nathan," she said softly. "And I'm glad we got to experience it together."

He smiled gently and wrapped his arm around her. "Me too, sweetheart."

The four of them settled into a comfortable conversation on the short drive to the hotel. When they arrived, they walked to their floor. Nathan pulled Elizabeth to the side when they reached her door, kissing her forehead. "Goodnight, my love. I'll see you in the morning." He smiled. "Enjoy the girl time with Fiona."

She laughed. "Oh, I have no doubt I will." She winked at him. "But I really can't wait to hear how your guy time with Lucas is."

He laughed, hugging her. "It will be interesting, for sure."

"Goodnight, ladies," Lucas said formally. "Sleep well."

"You too," Elizabeth and Fiona said in unison. They watched as Lucas and Nathan headed for their shared suite, then dissolved into giggles.

"Oh, to be a fly on the wall for their conversation!" Fiona said, wiping tears of laughter from her eyes as she and Elizabeth walked into their shared suite.

"That would be fascinating!" Elizabeth agreed, still giggling. They collapsed into the chairs in their sitting room, kicking off their heels. Elizabeth sighed, rubbing her feet. "I don't think I'll ever get used to wearing these kinds of shoes. I much prefer my normal, everyday shoes."

"Me too," Fiona agreed. She tilted her head, looking at Elizabeth. "I have a question for you."

"Okay," Elizabeth said, figuring it had something to do with either Lucas or Nathan.

"Do you think Rosemary has been acting strangely lately?"

Elizabeth blinked, not expecting that question. She thought about it for a moment, realizing that Rosemary had indeed been acting differently over the past week. "Yes, actually. I thought she was just busy, but she has seemed awfully quiet." She frowned. "That's not like her at all."

"Exactly," Fiona said. "Every time I've tried to talk to her, she keeps the conversation to a minimum and then quickly goes on her way. I'm a little concerned."

"I can't believe I didn't put this together sooner," Elizabeth exclaimed. "She hasn't even come over once in the last week. And she's helping to plan my wedding! She hasn't asked me about that at all this week." Now she was truly concerned. "Oh no. Something's wrong." She frowned again. "We should find her as soon as we get home tomorrow and find out what's going on."

Fiona smiled at Elizabeth's mothering worry. "It could be nothing, you know. She might just be feeling sick or tired, but she's trying to carry on as usual anyways."

Elizabeth pursed her lips, considering that. "Good point. She tends to avoid people when she's not feeling well." She felt a wave of relief at the thought. "I hope that's all it is."

"Probably," Fiona said with a yawn. She smoothed her dress as she stood. "I'm so glad we were able to use our bridesmaid dresses again. There aren't a whole lot of opportunities to get dressed up like this."

Elizabeth stood as well, stretching a bit. "This was a lovely evening. It was fun to experience a concert again, and I'm so glad Nathan got to be here."

Fiona smiled. "It's obvious he's crazy about you, you know. I've never seen two people more suitably matched."

"Oh, I don't know," Elizabeth said, sliding her friend a sly wink. "You and Lucas are about as suitable as they come."

Laughing, Fiona nodded. "We've both found the perfect man." She grinned. "How were we so fortunate?"

Elizabeth thought for a moment, lost in memories; thinking of Nathan and all he meant to her. Finally, she spoke, a soft smile on her face. "I think it was all a part of a master plan greater than our own."

They arrived back in Hope Valley early the next afternoon. Lucas parked the car in front of Gowen Petroleum, and he and Fiona disappeared into the office to chat with Henry. Lucas said they would just be a minute, and then they would drive Elizabeth and Nathan to their respective houses.

Elizabeth took Nathan's proffered arm and they strolled slowly along the boardwalk, waiting for their friends. As they neared the stagecoach stop, they could see Gabe sitting on the bench, reading a newspaper.

They walked up to him, and Nathan nudged him with his boot. "Slacking again, Kinslow?"

Gabe looked up with a smirk. "Hello to you too, Nathan." He nodded. "Elizabeth. How was the concert?"

"Beautiful," Elizabeth said. "And the best part is, Nathan enjoyed it too."

Gabe's brow shot up his forehead, and he stood with a laugh. "Wonders never cease," he said, slapping Nathan on the back.

"I'll admit, I was wrong," Nathan said. "I never thought I would enjoy something like that, but it was very nice." He tilted his head. "What are you doing out here? Where are the kids?"

Gabe nodded toward the cafe. "Allie wanted to take Jack to get a muffin, but she wanted to do so by herself. So I said I would wait here for them."

At that moment, Rosemary and Lee came by. Her friend looked like she was bursting at the seams. Elizabeth raised a brow as Rosemary walked right up to her, embracing her like she was a long lost sister. "Oh, Elizabeth!" she exclaimed. "Isn't it a glorious day?"

Elizabeth stared at her friend. "Alright, Rosemary, out with it. You've been acting strangely over the last week. What's going on?"

Her friend wore a beatific smile. "I have a surprise," she said in a stage whisper. "We didn't want to say anything in case it didn't work out, but…" She squealed as the stagecoach rolled into view. "Here they come!"

"Who's they?" Elizabeth asked, feeling more confused than ever.

The stagecoach stopped and the door opened. Elizabeth's jaw dropped as Lillian stepped out, smiling at the little group gathered there. "Hello, everyone."

"Lillian!" Rosemary said, embracing the young woman. Elizabeth glanced back to see Gabe standing with his mouth hanging open. Nathan smirked at his friend, arms crossed, eyes amused. Clearly Gabe hadn't been expecting to see Lillian.

Lillian turned and held out her hand to a little boy who peered out curiously at the adults. "It's alright, Fred," Lillian said encouragingly. "These are the nice people we're going to stay with while we're in Hope Valley."

Fred climbed down the steps and pressed into Lillian's side, looking around shyly. Rosemary smiled and crouched down in front of him. "Hello, Fred," she said kindly. "Do you remember me?"

Fred nodded, a little smile playing on his lips. "You're the lady who came to our orphanage and helped us put on a play," he said.

Elizabeth's heart melted watching her friend interact with the little boy. She looked at Lee. "What's going on?" she asked quietly, not wanting to draw attention to them.

Lee wore a smile as wide as Rosemary's. "I'll let Rosie tell you all about it later this evening," he said. "Why don't you and Nathan come over for dinner? And bring Gabe too."

Elizabeth nodded. "Alright."

Rosemary turned toward her, holding little Fred by the hand, her smile as big as ever. "Did you invite them for dinner?" she asked Lee. He nodded, looking at Gabe and Nathan. "I hope you're able to join us. We have some news we want to share with all of you."

Elizabeth felt excitement build inside as the Coulters guided Lillian and Fred to their car. She had a feeling she knew why they were here, and her heart rejoiced for Lee and Rosemary.

And for little Fred, who she guessed would not be an orphan much longer.