AN: Okay, just a silly little scene inspired by some behind the scenes tongue-and-cheek remarks about chapter titles. For those who think the set-up to the kiss is familiar to something else - it was inspired by a kiss in chapter 22 of FNFicJunkie's "But Now I See". This is posted with her blessing! My goal is to just get a laugh so please don't take it too seriously. Enjoy!
Nathan couldn't believe it. He and Elizabeth were finally having their first date. He was thankful to Bill for not only the loan of his office but the help with setting up and cooking as well. His friend had promised to set the food out while Nathan had gone to pick up Elizabeth and escort her into town.
As they reached the water tower, Nathan realized that not much had been said since they had left Elizabeth's row house. Feeling the need to say something, he blurted out, "would you and Jack like to have supper with Allie and me, tomorrow night."
"Nathan Grant, are you asking me out on a second date before we even have our first?" Elizabeth asked, attempting to sound as if she was scandalized. The merriment in her eyes said otherwise though.
"I would ask you out for a third if I thought you would say yes," Nathan told her softly. "Especially given how long it took me to finally ask you out."
Elizabeth paused in mid-stride, a soft tug on the arm she held onto bringing Nathan to a stop as well. Placing a hand on his cheek, she turned his face toward her. Before Nathan realized what was happening, she had lifted herself up on tiptoes and was pressing her lips against his.
Nathan closed his eyes. How many times had he imagined exactly this moment? It was everything he had imagined it would be. Forgetting they were still on the road leading into Hope Valley, Nathan increased the pressure on her lips, returning the gesture.
"Looks like too much tongue there, Constable."
There was no mistaking Bill's gruff but amused tone. Pulling back from the kiss, Nathan opened his eyes, his head turning in the direction of Bill's voice. Sure enough, Hope Valley's judge was standing there, wearing a smirk.
Feeling the heat in his cheeks, despite the cool evening Nathan addressed the man. "I thought you were laying out the food?"
"I did. Now I am heading to spend some time with Lee while Rosemary is babysitting. Your meal is all ready for you, though it may get cold by the time the two of you get there," Bill added.
"Thank you for your assistance," Nathan replied. "We'll just be on our way now," he added, thankful that Elizabeth had slipped her arm through his again. As he took a step toward town, Elizabeth instinctively followed.
"Good evening, Bill," Elizabeth offered.
"You kids have fun tonight," Bill told them, his amusement still evident.
"He's never going to let me forget this is he?" Nathan asked, once he felt he was a safe distance from Bill.
Elizabeth giggled. "Probably not. Though you could simply remind him about throwing the new town Mountie in jail."
"A very good point," Nathan replied. "Thank you, Mrs. Thornton."
"My pleasure," Elizabeth replied. "After all, it takes two people to kiss. Something, I hope we get to repeat at some point tonight."
Nathan felt his cheeks grow warmer. He would very much like that himself.