Elizabeth took a deep, steadying breath as Nathan closed her car door, before hurrying round the front of the car to his side. She was about to be alone with Nathan Grant on the fifteen-minute drive to the restaurant. She was trying to contain her nerves and her annoyance with Rosemary.

Being annoyed with Rosemary was something that Elizabeth had never felt before, and it felt awful. They had been best friends from the moment she met Rosemary at Minnie's on her second day in Crystal Haven.

Today, though, her friend had tricked her; she was sure of it. The IT issue, the electrical fault, and the missing lead actors all added up to a set-up. When Rosemary cancelled the dress rehearsal, she had done it far too quickly. Thinking about it, compared to last year, there weren't nearly enough people in the audience for it to be the real dress rehearsal.

When Elizabeth saw Colleen and Rosemary together in the auditorium, whispering as they gazed at her, Nathan and Allie, alarm bells had rung. Elizabeth knew Colleen worked at the same school as Rosemary, as her occupation had come up when she was interviewed at the scene of her accident, but when had they become friends? Had the invitation been a ruse to get her to the school, to have her and Nathan in the same place?

Rosemary texted Elizabeth multiple times a day about everything and everyone. There had been at least twenty texts about her coffee catch-up with Nathan; she sent one every time she remembered something else he had said, at least ten of her text messages mentioned he was single. She had never once mentioned knowing his sister, Colleen.

Colleen had seemed delighted when she heard Elizabeth was joining them for lunch.

Elizabeth had worried Colleen would think it strange having lunch with the paramedic who had treated her and her daughter, but she hadn't. Was it odd that Colleen had suggested Elizabeth leave her car at the school and travel with them? It seemed like a reasonable idea when she explained that Nathan had to drive Colleen back to school after lunch anyway.

It was strange that the moment Elizabeth settled herself in Nathan's car, Colleen suddenly remembered an appointment she had after lunch. Nathan had frowned in confusion, questioning how it was possible given they had planned their entire day and there was nothing on the schedule on her fridge. Colleen had shrugged unapologetically, explaining that she had forgotten until the reminder text had come through. Elizabeth and Nathan stared in stunned surprise as Colleen took Allie's hand and hurried away, deciding they should take a separate car after all.

Elizabeth stared out the passenger window as they drove toward the restaurant, thoughts racing as she tried to think of a way to break the deafening silence. She kept getting distracted thinking of ways to punish Rosemary for putting her in this awkward position. Did Nathan realise what her friend and his sister had done? If he did, how did he feel about it? Elizabeth bit her lip. Why could she not think of a single thing to say?

Nathan glanced at Elizabeth and saw her staring out the car window. As he watched, she reached up and tucked a lock of her short, wavy hair behind her ear. Her perfume wafted toward him; it was soft, warm, feminine, and suited her perfectly. He wished he could tuck the hair back for her, feel the silky tresses between his fingers.

Switching his attention back to the road, he tried to think of something to say.

"So, how long have you lived in Crystal Haven?" Nathan asked and then cringed at the question. Was that really the best he could do?

"Almost four years," Elizabeth said. "I moved here from San Francisco."

"Wow, that's a big change," Nathan commented, wondering what had driven her to make such a drastic move.

"Yes, it was, but I have no regrets. I love Crystal Haven! I love the lifestyle, the people, and my job. I even love the snow." Elizabeth chuckled. "Clara, my partner can't understand it."

"I'm with you. I love the winter and the snow...if I am inside before a warm fire or out on a ski-field.

As bland as the initial question might have been, it got them talking. They talked about the things they liked, things they didn't like. Favourite music and books, favourite ways to spend their days off and their favourite places they had travelled and what was still on their bucket lists. Nathan was pleasantly surprised to find they had a lot of things in common. When he pulled up in the restaurant's parking lot, he felt much more relaxed and eager to learn about Elizabeth Thatcher.

"I would really appreciate some tips on the best ski spots. Colleen has no idea; she hates skiing."

"I'm more than happy to share." Elizabeth said, eyes shining with excitement, "I love the Gunsmoke Mountain Resort."

"I think someone at work mentioned the Gunsmoke."

"Probably. Quite a few people from the hospital ski there, actually, anyone who works long hours." Elizabeth said, turning in her seat to face him more fully. "They have night runs there, so people can go skiing when they aren't working."

Nathan grinned at Elizabeth, noticing how relaxed she was when talking about something she was passionate about.

"The Gunsmoke has excellent hiking and camping as well. When it's warmer, a lot of people camp for weekends."

"What about water sports? Do you sail?"

"I love the water and sailing, but it's been years since I've been on a boat."

"Why's that?" Nathan asked, unable to believe anyone who could sail wouldn't want to do it as often as they could. He loved being on the water, flying along with the breeze.

"I suppose I decided to focus on the Mountains instead of the sea for a while." Elizabeth gazed at him, the sparkle in her eyes dimming a little. "What about you, Nathan? Which is your preference, skiing, hiking, or sailing?"

Nathan sensed a reluctance on her part to talk about why she hadn't been sailing and decided to let it go for now. The last thing he wanted was to push Elizabeth away just as he got the chance to get to know her better.

"Oh, it's hard to name my favourite. I love them all when I am doing them."

"No! You have to pick one," Elizabeth insisted.

"Fine. Skiing," Nathan said, chuckling. He said skiing because he could do that now...maybe with her.

Nathan pulled the car into the restaurant car park, finding a spot close to the entrance. He had almost forgotten Allie and Colleen were behind them until his sister pulled her car into the space beside his. He opened his door and moved quickly to the other side of the vehicle to help Elizabeth out of the car. She smiled at him as she reached out and took his hand, and he felt his stomach flip again, like the first time he had touched her. There was no doubt in his mind Elizabeth was special, and he wanted to spend more time getting to know her - much more time.

Colleen had booked a curved booth at the restaurant, and Nathan was pleased to sit next to Elizabeth. With his long legs, it hadn't been practical to slide around, and Colleen used the excuse of leaving early to sit on the outside opposite him. He had laughed as Allie crawled along the seat, her head barely showing over the table. He had tracked down a booster seat for her so she could reach her plate.

Nathan studied the menu, wondering what to order. He had his heart set on a steak, but everything looked so good. Lee Coulter had recommended the new restaurant and assured him he had to try it. It was probably a little grown-up for Allie, but his niece had always been included when he and Colleen went out to eat, and she knew how to behave.

When planning the lunch, he mentioned the name of the restaurant Lee had recommended, and Colleen had insisted they go. She had seen all the adverts for its grand opening and was excited to try it.

"Wow, this place is gorgeous. I haven't had a chance to try it. Rosemary raved about it after Lee brought her here for their anniversary," Elizabeth commented, looking around the elegant room.

"I know, the advertisements were everywhere. I had been trying to find an excuse to come here."

"Was your arrival in Crystal Haven the excuse?" Elizabeth teased Nathan.

"It's Uncle Nathan's birthday!" Allie blurted.

"Oh, Happy Birthday, you should have said something!" Elizabeth exclaimed.

"I am not big on making a fuss," Nathan said, his cheeks flushed.

"You make a fuss over everyone else; you just hate it when you're the centre of attention," Colleen corrected him. "He always spoils the rest of us when it's our birthday, and he loves Christmas," Colleen explained.

"Well, I am glad you are getting spoiled today, and it makes Allie's invitation all the more special." Elizabeth leaned over and stroked Allie's hair. "Thank you again."

The waiter arrived at their table and took their orders; Nathan chose the Eye fillet steak with a peppercorn sauce and a baked potato. Elizabeth ordered the salmon while Colleen ordered a Caesar salad with chicken, and Allie asked for breaded chicken and fries. Colleen allowed the fries for Allie but insisted she eat some of the vegetables Nathan ordered for the table.

The food arrived quickly, and it didn't disappoint. The four of them ate in silence as everyone savoured their food. Nathan swallowed the last bite of his steak and leaned back against the back of the booth.

"That was amazing," he said as he placed his napkin on the table.

"I hope you aren't too full, Nathan. There is still dessert to come," Colleen said.

Nathan groaned, how on earth he would fit in another mouthful.

After the waiter cleared the table, Colleen withdrew a present from the bag she had carried into the restaurant. Nathan had wondered what was in it but hadn't gotten around to asking her. Passing the gift to Allie, the adults watched as Allie excitedly passed it across the table to Nathan.

Nathan studied the small package and thanked Colleen and Allie. He lifted it and held it next to his ear, shaking it, listening for clues to what was inside.

"You'll never guess," Allie squealed excitedly.

Nathan teased her a little longer before finally succumbing to her pleas and unwrapping the gift. It was a new fishing reel combo.

"I know you can't use it until the weather warms up, but I hope you like it."

"I love it; it's perfect," Nathan said as he studied it. He meant what he said. It was the perfect gift, and he couldn't wait for the weather to warm up so he could use it.

"You didn't!" Nathan said, shaking his head as the wait staff approached singing "Happy Birthday." The first server proudly carried a platter containing a cake with a sparkler and lit candles. Nathan looked at Colleen, laughing heartily, and then Allie, looking on in wonder and delight. He turned to Elizabeth, and when their eyes met, she gave him a sympathetic smile and knew he had to be a good sport. He would never do anything to diminish Allie's joy.

Nathan smiled as everyone sang, and as he blew out the candle, he made a wish. Opening his eyes, he looked directly at Elizabeth and wondered what she would think if she knew she was the focus of his wish.

"Thank you very much," Nathan said to the staff as they drifted away. "You three are going to have to help me eat this cake," Nathan said, waving away their protests. Cutting the cake into generous slices, Nathan served each of them a piece. The cake was delicious. The chocolate cake was light and fluffy, with chocolate hazelnut cream between the layers. The icing was more of the cream sprinkled with crushed hazelnuts.

Nathan watched as Elizabeth cut a piece of cake and brought the fork to her mouth. She slipped the fork into her mouth and groaned in pleasure, closing her eyes as she savoured the decadent cake. Nathan felt his mouth go dry, and the cake he was chewing got stuck in his throat. He quickly reached for his water glass to wash it down.

Nathan heard Colleen snort with laughter and knew she had noticed his reaction to Elizabeth. His cheeks flushed as Elizabeth reached out, placing her hand on his forearm. Her eyes were full of concern as she asked if he was okay. Nathan didn't trust himself to speak, so he smiled and nodded.

When she cleared her throat, Nathan finally looked at Colleen and saw her gathering her things, readying herself to leave. Part of him was sorry to see her go, while the other half was pleased to spend more time alone with Elizabeth. Alone.

Colleen and Allie left, Colleen insisting she couldn't be late for her appointment. Nathan and Colleen tussled over the bill, each one wanting to pay for it. Elizabeth stayed silent, knowing neither of them would entertain her contributing, vowing to make it up to both of them at a future time.

Nathan wrestled the bill from his sister with a triumphant 'Ha!'.

"How old are you?" Colleen demanded as Allie and Elizabeth giggled at their antics.

Nathan declined to answer, pulling his wallet from his pocket, placing his credit card on the small tray, and handing it to the waiter. Allie and Colleen kissed Nathan goodbye, waving to Elizabeth, and rushing away.

"I know I just paid the bill, but would you like a coffee or something else?"

"I would love a hot chocolate, but I need to walk off this lunch first. If you have time for a walk, Minnie's cafe is on the other side of the park. They do an amazing hot chocolate."

"I'd love to go for a walk, as long as you can put off your Christmas shopping."

"I can do it later."

"Great!"

"Great!"