The irony of the human heart is that it's tormented both by the presence and absence of its counterpart – Crystal Woods.


As Nathan rode towards Rock Creek, his thoughts turned to Elizabeth and their counseling sessions. For a moment, he let his guard down and allowed the good and bad memories to replay in his mind. The night she put frosting on his nose when she helped with Allie's sleepover, the dart that landed in his beer, and when they hung the cardinal ornament on the tree after they spent the day finding one. He couldn't imagine how things would have turned out if she hadn't supported him when his father came to town unexpectedly. What started out badly turned into Nathan and Allie being able to rediscover their familial relationship with Archie. But then there were the bad things on the other side of the scale that sometimes outweighed the good. Even with all the things they discussed in the sessions with Joseph, there were still more, including what occurred with Allie. He wasn't looking forward to those discussions at all.

He also recalled that the letter she had accidentally dropped in the livery in her haste to escape popped into his head. There were certain parts of it that he had engraved onto his heart.

My biggest regret, Nathan, is that I even walked into the Jail that day and callously lied when I told you those things.

Oh, how I wish I could turn back the clock to that day and follow Emerson's advice on the plaque you made me. It would make me happy beyond belief.

Nathan, I love you and am in love with you. I have been since our early days. You weren't wrong that day when you said that I felt the same way you did. I mean, I told you that I was afraid to lose you as I did Jack. If that sounds like a comparison, it is not. It just means my love for you is as deep as what I shared with him. When I ran to my land after your declaration, I had half hoped you would come after me.

If I could turn back the clock, I would have faced my fear with you by my side, and our conversation at the Jail would have been different. I would have ensured that love defeated my fear. I wouldn't have run from you that day you made your beautiful declaration. Instead, I would have told you how scared I was and that I needed you and loved you too. Maybe we would be married and expecting our first child by now, and I would know the taste of your kisses and how your lips feel on mine.

If I had the chance, I'd spend every hour of every day treasuring your heart and keeping it safe. I would ensure that you and Allie never had any reason to doubt how much I love you.

The pressure had been building and threatened to spill over, especially since she returned from Hamilton and immediately dropped Lucas. She had even declared her love for him while still giving him space and without expectations of anything except a desire to be in his life in whatever way he would allow her to be. More of her words from the letter came to his mind. He wondered if he dared let her know he had seen it and ask if he could have it, but in the end, he knew he would never ask. There was a fear that it could lead her to believe there was more to it, something he wasn't sure he would be capable of offering. Unfortunately, it didn't stop him from longing for it anyway.

I wish for your and Allie's happiness, just like you wanted for me when you stepped back when I chose Lucas.

I pray that you find the love you deserve and that it will make your heart whole again, Nathan. Though it will hurt to see you with another, it is my fault that I hurt. You, Allie, and Jack are the reason that my heart keeps beating, even if I can only love you from a distance.

'What did he want? What could it mean for them?' He knew he could easily see their easy friendship resume because, just in the hard conversations they already worked through in the two sessions, the anger and bitterness he carried had begun to ease. Elizabeth had been open to all discussions, and nothing was off limits. At times, though, some discussions like today could become heated. Though Elizabeth ran off today, he didn't fault her for it this time. He could see the mortification in her eyes as his scathing words hit their target and inflicted intense pain just as he intended. Looking back, that wasn't well done of him, but he couldn't stop the words once he began to speak. It amazed him just how much they had unpacked in just two sessions, including the last thing that happened when she came to his office. He was grateful that she hadn't stepped foot in there since that day.

"Nathan, you misunderstood. I didn't mean those awful words the way you took them. No one in my life can replace Jack, whether they are wearing a Serge or not. You are also more than just a Mountie in a Serge. And I knew that day exactly who you were. I always have, Nathan. I don't know what came over me to attack you like that when that was the last thing I wanted to do!"

His heart ached for her, though, upon seeing her reaction to finding out they were seen kissing and that library date. Her assurance that no other kisses had happened since that night also soothed him, and he believed her because Elizabeth was a good woman of moral character. In his opinion, that was on full display based upon her reaction to finding out everyone knew and that she hadn't felt right after they kissed once in the library.

"So, when you talked with him, you convinced him to stay in town?" Nathan noticed she had paled and saw the pain reflected in her eyes as she accurately began to put the pieces together.

Nathan knew exactly what she was thinking of. "Yep, that was why the saloon had been locked up tight. He was going to leave town not with a broken heart but because he thought he had lost the competition. So, your little kiss at the bridge, followed by that private reading, was all a setup, Elizabeth."

She looked up at him in alarm." How did…."

"How did I know about them? I hate to break it to you, Elizabeth, but the whole town knew. Look for people next time you make out on the bridge during broad daylight. You were seen by some of your students, including Allie. As for your supper, Lucas spoke of it afterward, bragged, actually, and you weren't discreet since you posted a sign that the library was closed for a private party."

He knew that part of the reason he deliberately wanted to inflict pain was because of his guilt when he lied to Lucas and essentially gave his blessing to their courtship. It had rankled, and his chest felt like it had been ripped open and hot coals placed on his heart when he told Lucas that he knew Elizabeth's heart was always with Lucas and that it hadn't surprised him. But his love was so deep that he would give her the moon if he could. Unfortunately, she wasn't the one that should suffer for it because it was all on him. When he got back, he needed to talk with her about that and apologize for doing that.

'Was a lifetime of love even still possible for them?' With a heavy sigh, he had to admit that he didn't know. So much had happened between them in the three years they'd been OK. He smiled as he recalled her reaction when he brushed her arm and then asked her to provide him with an opinion on his scent, all while wearing her favorite shirt. It was like a balm to his soul whenever he would catch her looking at him. He enjoyed teasing her and seeing her discombobulated when he was near because it gave him affirmation that he wasn't crazy. It somehow gave him security in knowing that she genuinely did love him and now was unguarded and open to him. He knew he loved her. That hadn't changed. But he didn't trust her, period. The most significant thing that hurt him was her words to him in the jail. It also deeply pained him every time he saw her walking with Lucas or laughing or having supper, especially when Jack was with them.

Anger rose in him as he remembered what Carson and Bill had said the other day concerning Lucas teaching Jack wrong values. But as he passed the town sign for Rock Creek, he reigned in his swirling emotions for another time because now he needed to focus and be present for Allie and figure out how to handle Dylan's parents suddenly being in her life.


His mom's house sat by the water and was painted a gold color with white trim. The water was close enough that you could fish off the back deck if you were of a mind to. As if sensing their girl was close, Newton began to pick up the pace as he recognized where they were.

"I know, boy, she'll be glad to see us too," Nathan said, giving his faithful partner a loving pat. Newton knickered in response.

A few moments later, there was a beautiful sound he had been longing for, and his heart swelled with love for the owner of that voice.

"Dad, you're here!" Allie said, running out to meet him. "Hey Newton, old boy!" She greeted them and scratched the horse behind the ear in his favorite spot.

"Got one of those for your old man?"

"I was going to hug you, but if you prefer a scratch behind the ear…." She teased.

"You know what I am talking about. Come here because I have been missing you something awful, Allie girl."

Allie obliged, happily hanging on tight as her dad's long arms engulfed her and pulled her snugly against him, breathing in her hair's scent. Neither said a word; they just hung on silently communing.

A few minutes later, Nathan kissed her on the top of her head and released her to get his bag. He saw her frown at him. "What's wrong?"

"Still have the mustache, I see."

"I do, and it's staying, so don't even waste your time."

"All right," Allie said as she rolled her eyes.

Walking into the house, his mom had just come from the kitchen, and from the smell, he could see she was preparing supper.

"Hello, Son,"

"Hey, Mom. I see I am just in time." Nathan said, going over and kissing her on the cheek.

"It will be ready in 10 minutes. By the time you get situated in your room, it will be on the table. Nothing fancy, I'm afraid, just beef stew and biscuits, but it will stick to your ribs."

"I'll be right back," Nathan said, giving her another kiss on the cheek before heading to get Newton settled.

Moira watched her son and Granddaughter walk away, and she couldn't help noticing something seemed off about her boy. Allie had been more than forthcoming about some things that had happened and her dislike of his facial hair. Looking at him, she couldn't help noticing that he couldn't really meet her eyes, but she could sense some pain lingering in them. Though they needed to deal with the Parks first, she was determined to get to the bottom of things before he returned home. She also wanted to get his thoughts on Allie staying just a bit longer if things went well with Maggie and George.

A little while later, they were sitting at the table, and Nathan brought up Allie's feelings about meeting her grandparents.

"I had Uncle Bill do a background check and verify their story, and what they said checks out. Plus, it does appear that Dylan never told them about you." Nathan replied after seeing the fear in her eyes.

"Can they take me from you?"

"No, Allie. The adoption is final, and you are legally my daughter. There is nothing they can do to change that."

"I guess I should at least try to meet them," Allie said reluctantly.

"It's entirely up to you, but I do think you should at least meet them. From everything I have seen, they seem to be honest, hardworking people. I know you don't really know Dylan very well, but they are family."

"Okay. I'll meet them, but will you and Grandma be there too? I don't want to be alone with them." Allie said.

"I had every intention of it, and I know Grandma did too, right Ma?"

"I sure did, Allie," Moira said. "Although I have only spoken with them twice since we saw them, they are nice people and are excited to get to know you. I think if you give them a chance, you'll be pleasantly surprised."

"Then I will," Allie promised.

The rest of the evening was spent with Nathan and Allie playing chess and backgammon, followed by reading a couple of chapters together from the book that she was currently reading. Moira let them be, knowing that father and daughter needed some time alone together. Nathan came out onto the porch after leaving Allie's room and joined her on the porch swing. He had one of Allie's sketch pads and pencils with him. There was light coming from the porch light and the window behind them that enabled her to see he was drawing what looked to be a house.

Leaning over to get a closer look at it, she asked. "Planning on building a home?"

"Not exactly. I thought I would do some carving, and I'm planning a little project for Jack."

"Oh, I take it they have returned from Hamilton?"

"Yep. Been home about a week now." Nathan replied, not looking up at her. He knew the minute he did, his mom would know everything. She had this sixth sense when it came to him that was almost scary.

Nothing was said for a while, and Nathan had begun to think that maybe he might be able to get away with avoiding any conversation about Elizabeth and just relax. But he was wrong.

"So, how are things now that she has returned?"

Nathan sighed. "Ma, can we talk about something else?"

"Sure Son. Why don't we talk about the sudden desire you have for facial hair?"

Nathan looked over at her. "Not you too. Ma, it is just I was wanting a change, that is all. Why is everyone so curious about my facial hair all of a sudden?"

"Maybe because in all the time you have been a Mountie, you have never liked it? But now you are stubbornly attached to it, and it occurred after a certain schoolteacher broke your heart?"

"What does one have to do with the other?"

"You would be surprised," Moira said with a sly smile.

"You know, I think I'm going to go turn in. It was a long ride from Hope Valley, and I haven't slept well." Nathan said, leaning over to give her a kiss. "I'll see you in the morning."

"I love you, Son!" Moira called out softly.

"I love you too. Good night,"

"Night. Oh, and Nathan?"

Nathan paused just before opening the door and looked at her. "Yes?"

"You can't avoid answering me forever." She chuckled.

Nathan rolled his eyes at her teasing. "I know." Then he opened the door and went inside while Moira remained outside for a bit longer, just thinking back over all that she had learned and what she had observed for herself with her son. By the time she went in, both father and daughter were sound asleep.


The next morning Nathan had gotten up early and rode over to see the Parks. He wanted to ensure that they were all on the same page when it came to Allie and to issue an invitation to lunch. It had been a long time since he had last laid eyes on them, but he was pleasantly surprised that they were as nice as he remembered for Allie's sake. They easily agreed to his boundaries that it would be Allie who would decide what happened after the initial meeting. They were just grateful for the opportunity to meet her.

George was about 5'10" and had salt and pepper hair. He also had a well-trimmed beard and mustache and was of slender build. Maggie was a blond with a warm smile and kind eyes. Unlike their son, they were both genuine in their manner. After saying goodbye, he headed back to the house to help prepare Allie for their visit.

Just before noon, they heard a car pull up out front.

"Dad, I'm really nervous. What if they don't like me?"

"Allie girl, I can't see that happening. What is not to love about you? Grandma and I are right here beside you, and I promise they are just as anxious to finally meet you. Remember, they didn't know about you, so it's not their fault. They probably have some great stories to tell about being overseas in France." Nathan assured her, giving her a side hug for comfort.

They heard the knock on the door, and Allie grabbed Nathan's hand and held tight just like she did whenever she felt unsure of herself.

Moira went to answer the door while Nathan leaned over, kissed the top of her head, and whispered, "Trust me?"

Allie looked up at him and just nodded. They could hear Moira speaking to people, and then suddenly, there they were. Knowing that the three people were nervous, Moira ushered them a little closer.

"Oh!" Maggie whispered in awe as tears welled up in her eyes. "You are so beautiful! Isn't she George?"

George looked at her in awe! "She has your eyes, honey."

"Allie, I would like to introduce you to your grandparents, George and Maggie Parks," Moira said softly, having a hard time not crying as she took in the scene in front of her. She recognized that look on their faces, and it was undoubtedly one of love.

Suddenly Allie straightened her shoulders and approached the couple and held out her hand as she looked at them. "Hi, I'm Allie Grant."

George was the first to shake her hand. "It is so nice to meet you, my dear. I'm looking forward to getting to know you."

Though it was obvious that Maggie wanted to wrap her in a big hug, she held back and accepted the handshake. "Hello, sweetheart."

"I always wondered where I got my hazel eyes from," Allie said with a huge smile as she looked at her new grandmother.

With the initial introductions over, they settled down in the living room to get to know one another. It didn't take long before Maggie got her wish. When asked if she could please give Allie a hug, she found herself gifted with an Allie hug, as was George. After that, Nathan was able to leave them alone and help his mother prepare their lunch. Judging by the amount of laughter they heard it looked like Allie 's family had just become bigger by two additions.