WCTH S8 Episode Review: A Parade and a Charade

    Oh. My. Heart.😲

    Guys... this was... without a doubt.... the best episode of the whole season. (So far anyway.)

    Hey Hearties! Welcome to today's blog post! I absolutely LOVED this week's episode. Just loved it! There was romance, there was emotion, there was drama... (Sighs...) Oh, it was so good! The storylines were done very nicely, with not much feeling random or out of place. Elizabeth, Lucas, and Nathan got a nice amount of screen time, (Lucas and Elizabeth a bit more than Nathan) and I was entertained throughout the episode.

    Well, this is an incredibly long post so let's just get right to it.

 

Side Notes:  

Little Jack sighting! FYI, I know why we haven't seen much of him, but it's so nice when we do. :)

Minor Spoiler: Fiona wasn't here again, but from the first second I caught of the promo I know she's coming back this next episode. Should be interesting!

Elizabeth can knit! (I actually knitted a pair of baby boots for someone once. :)

Nothing Could Keep Me Away

    Okay guys... I absolutely love Rachel and Christopher's whole plotline and romance. I am so here for it. At first I wasn't quite sure, but now? I love it!

    I really love Christopher's character. There's so much depth and character to him. He's a very flawed man, but that's why I like him so much. I can see that deep down he's simply a man who's had a very sad and tangled past. He grew up in wealth it appears, and now is finally reconnecting with his father, and learning how to be a man of honor. A man who cares about his father and wants to make him proud. And I love it!

    I also really love him and Rachel's sweet if not very scandalous romance. I mean, wow! Rachel is SO bold! (Or dumb... Lol!) She just outright kissed Christopher! I mean... put the breaks on there a bit, girl. But I do have a theory as to her actions.

    Her mother has simply smothered her. She told her how to dress, how to act, how to speak. And I can only imagine how she acted if a guy ever showed any interest in her daughter. (Shivers at the thought) Now Rachel is freed from the constant sheltering of her mother. She's learning how to be an independent woman, thinking for herself, and following her dreams. And that includes romance. I'm pretty sure this girl has had pretty limited experience in romance, probably gleaning most of her ideas from her romance novels. And I also believe she really wants to experience what it's like to meet a guy, and fall in love. All of this combined pretty much equals her actions with Christopher.

    It was really sweet to see how playful they were, with Rachel throwing those... whatever they were at him. (I can't tell. Were they handkerchiefs? Scarves?) And the whole "secret-ness" of their relationship adds a new level of intrigue and drama that I really enjoy. But this episode also showed me both Rachel and Christopher's hearts.

    Christopher really does care, or even loves his father. His reaction to Henry's episode and then him sitting outside just across from the cafe spoke volumes about his feelings. And Rachel realized this. She was so sweet and gentle, explaining to Christopher what he was doing, and how he was feeling when he really may not have understood his own reasoning and actions.

    She then also showed Christopher that she really does have feelings for him, when she handed him back his handkerchief, the lipstick smudges still on it. They then shared a very sweet kiss, and Christopher promised to come by the dress shop the next day.

    But... but... he missed her! Come on! Lol! It's so... soap opera-ish and maybe cheesy to some people... but I really am enjoying their dramatic romance. (There's the hopeful romantic in me.) Rachel may now think Christopher doesn't care about her as he didn't show. (After learning he returned the pocket watch too! Bravo Christopher for that!) And Christopher feels bad that he missed her, and is now stuck holding onto that lipstick hankie. (Which is so pathetic and romantic. Lol!) Will they be reunited in this next episode? Only time will tell...

 

Different Pages

    So... You know all that stuff I said last week about things looking better for Team Infirmary? Yeah, you'd better scratch that.

    You know I have to say that I'm torn about Carson at this point. I'm miffed with him right now, and yet I understand to an extent. After what happened with Ned he realized some things. He wants to do more. He wants to help people, and to the best possible level he can. That I totally understand and see as very honorable. But... His whole comment about the Infirmary becoming an outdated relic of the past? Ouch! What happened to you Carson?

    It feels like he's the "big city Hallmark doctor" in the making. He then may leave for a big advanced hospital, leaving the woman he loves behind in the process. (Wow. We have a Hallmark movie forming right before our eyes. Lol!)

    I have to say I'm quite torn here. I'm on Faith's side because her dedication to serving Hope Valley is so honorable. She feels called to serve this small town and it's wonderful citizens. She also knows that they truly need her, or a doctor to say the least. She loves it there, and wants to take care of everyone. This is so noble and beautiful really.

    Somehow Carson has lost this zeal. He feels he could be doing more meaningful work in a big hospital. This... doesn't sit well with me. But at the same time I understand. His life's calling is to save lives, and he wants to make the biggest difference he can. And he just feels that Hope Valley isn't enough anymore. Yes, I believe he needs to take that fellowship, even if it's only temporary. He needs to experience this dream so he can finally know just what his calling is. What gives him the most fulfillment. 

    The big question is... Is he willing to give up Faith in the process? Faith will NOT be happy in Baltimore. Period. And I doubt she'll go with Carson even if he asks her to. She's made her choice. Now Carson has to make his. And this could be the exit of Carson from WCTH. I have no evidence to back me up and could be totally wrong. But... Things don't sound too good for this doctor right now.

FloYo

    And now it's time to talk about everyone's favorite couple.... FloYo! Honestly I think they have captured nearly every Heartie's heart. They are just so precious!

    We didn't see a whole lot of them this episode, but what we did get was fun and sweet. Florence is being so protective of Ned right now, and for good reason. I feel he would do too much too soon his first day back. I find it funny that Florence said he was lucky she "let him" come in that day. They're already acting like a married couple. Lol!

    I also thought it was fun that Florence brought in Robert to deliver the mail. So far the young man is still in Hope Valley and willing to serve however he can. (Even if he got the quote wrong. Lol!)

    And Florence's statement to Ned toward the end was so romantic and touching! No one can replace Ned. Not in Hope Valley. And most certainly not in Florence's heart.😍

 

Bill & Molly

    No wonder Bill didn't want to give up his red serge. Dang! He rocked it!

    This was such a touching storyline, between Bill not wanting to give up his uniform, to Molly's sweet words about "the man who wears it," to that beautiful send off the town gave him. His comment was so good. "You know I'll be right back." Lol!

    But it was such a heart-touching moment. Bill's face said so much. The bittersweet feeling to wear his serge for the last time. His pride of everyone seeing him in it and cheering for him. The love he felt from his friends and neighbors all making him feel so special. It really was the sweetest send off. And whoa! Look out for the dynamic duo of Bill and Hero! They've got some moves! :)

    I will say that I've actually grown to like the idea of Bill and Molly together a bit. That's something I never ever, ever thought I'd say. But Molly was really sweet and so thoughtful with Bill. She knew just the right thing to say. I actually wonder if she somehow altered his serge at all so it would fit, or if she just knew it would.

 

The Canfields

 

    Wow! Joseph is one talented man! Watching him work with that metal, twisting it to make the lantern hooks was really neat to watch. And I loved his comment about keeping his "honey-do list" short. Lol! It's so clear how much Joseph and Minnie love each other. The way they look at each other. The way they tease and banter.

    Joseph was really bummed that he didn't buy the gas station. He really doesn't want to pastor Hope Valley's church. But... Minnie knows that this is his calling. Apparently Joseph is going to need a lot more convincing. Lol! And Minnie smiles and says it's like having another child. :D

    Speaking of Minnie... She was so sweet and understanding with Elizabeth. And she totally hit the nail on the head. Minnie knows that after only a little more than three years Elizabeth's pain is still fresh. And Elizabeth only proved her point by quickly changing the subject.

    My mother who's a fan of the show as well... and is Team Nathan... (Yeah. That's fun. Lol!) pointed out a very important fact to me. Everyone in town knew about Jack's death. The only person it ever had to be explained to was Lucas, and Elizabeth wasn't even the one to do it. And so Elizabeth has never had to actually talk about Jack's death, how it happened, how she feels, etc. But now the Canfields have arrived and never knew Jack. They weren't there when Elizabeth lost him, and Joseph and Minnie both are called to minister to the community. (IMO anyway.) My point in all this being... Elizabeth has been able to pretend that she's moving on, and never talk about Jack. She never has to explain how his death effected her, or if the pain is still there. 

    And the truth is she can't. Minnie's kind statement really threw her for a loop and she found she wasn't even able to answer it. All showing us something very important. Elizabeth hasn't moved on. There is still pain and hurt stuffed down inside her that she needs to deal with. And I believe she will very soon.

    The last thing I have to mention is sweet Angela. Oh, the poor little darling! She says that when she plays the piano she can go anywhere... but sometimes she feels alone. The poor girl! She is such a talented, and wonderful little girl. She has such a kind and pure heart, and musical talents straight from the Lord Himself. But even playing the piano like an angel gets lonely. And yet it was that piano that gave her the determination to learn to read Braille.

    And thanks to her loving mother, and Elizabeth she will! Elizabeth is so excited, not only that Angela wont feel alone and will get to experience  the wonder of reading, but she's even having fun learning with her! I see wonderful things to come for both of them! (So long as Mr. Landis doesn't pop his trouble making face back in town. :(

Raising a Teenager

    Oh dear.... Lee and Rosemary have their work cut out for them. Lol! The poor couple. They've never raised a child before, and now they've just been thrown right into the "teenager" stage. Rosemary was hilarious as she literally placed herself between Rachel and Christopher. She knows something is going on between them, and she also knows that Christopher is trouble with a capital T. However... Yeesh. She embarrassed poor Rachel to death. Lol! But that kind of needed to happen. As I mentioned above, Rachel has just been so sheltered by her mother, she's just jumping to fall in love and be independent. 

    But now it seems the Coulters will get a nice breather with Rachel back home for her birthday. And Lee seems quite happy about that. Lol! The poor guy. It's one thing for him to raise a teenager, but a teenage girl? Yikes! :D Yes, I think he'll enjoy this break.

    As to Rosemary's job hunt... yep. That's still up in the air. I really, really, REALLY hope that in the end Rosemary simply finds out she's pregnant and that she'll decide to simply be a mother. Honestly I think that's her true dream. Yes, she enjoys working, and may still get a job but... she so wants a child and to just be a mommy. And I really hope this happens for her. (Come on, WCTH writers! ;) 

Can We Talk?

    Yes! Resolution people! Jesse finally, FINALLY made the first move and came home! And he said exactly what I said he should have last week. "Can we talk?"  

    Now I first have to mention how hilarious him and Hickam's conversation was. Lol! Oh, poor Mike. "I don't know how Clara puts up with you." :D But Mike was a true friend and offered Jesse a very needed piece of advice. He told him he needs to go home to his wife. And... I think Jesse took it rather well... (Or not... Lol!) He was quite.. miffed. "Some friend you are." Oh, Jesse.... Temper, temper...

    But he did actually apologize to Mike which I am very glad he did. And then... He took his friend's advice and went home. And Clara... (Sighs happily) She accepted him with such love and gentleness. I think she really wanted him to come home. No matter what she loves him, and doesn't want to do life without him. And she fully agreed that they could talk. Yes, things are looking up for these two, and it's wonderful. Hopefully they're able to patch things up, learn to trust each other, and can go back to being happily in love again.

 

He Called Me Dad

    Oh, my... Oh my heart! My emotions! They were all over the place. We went from such a steamy scene with Lucas and Elizabeth (Don't worry. I'll talk all about that in a bit.) to such a wonderful, heart-tugging scene with Henry. Oh... you guys... Have you ever seen Henry so happy? He was just beaming! And when have we ever seen him be so open with someone, other than Elizabeth? He was just bursting at the seams and had to tell someone... And why was he bursting? Because... (Oh my heart) because his son... called him...

    Dad.

    You guys...goodness. I am not an extremely emotional person when it comes to movies and television. I don't really cry, unless I'm super moved by something. My friend doesn't always know how I don't get as emotional at scenes as she does. But this? Oh, wow. Just talking about it makes me emotional.

    That was just the most precious scene. Henry realized that his son actually cares about him. And he called him dad. That may have been the first time Henry ever heard his son call him that. That may be the first time he ever had that title placed on him. And it was just so beautiful to see the pure joy on his face. His whole face just lit up, and he was so... giddy! When has Henry ever been giddy?

    Sufficed to say... I loved that scene. 

    I'd also like to throw in here just how sweet it is to see Christopher's concern for his dad, and how hard he's working to dig that trench even though he's never done that before. Honestly, it shows just how much his dad means to him, and it's so sweet to watch!

    Also... oh boy is he mad at Lucas. And poor Lucas had no idea of Henry's health, and even tried to fix things after Christopher threatened him, but... Nope. I'm very curious to see where this goes. (I'm also glad to see Lucas get a separate plotline. Yay!)

    I love the whole storyline of Henry and Christopher. I love the idea of Henry having a son, the whole character of Christopher and how much he clearly loves his father, how much Henry loves his son, and just... yeah. All of it. I love this new plotline. All the backstory, the emotions, the feels. (Sighs contently.) Well done WCTH writers. That's all I can say. Well done, and bravo.

 

Allie

 

    Yikes! Oh, Allie... you poor soul. Now I am not going to pretend that I totally agree with Allie's reaction this episode. She's around thirteen, and should understand. But.... at the same time I totally understand why she acted the way she did.

    This sweet little girl has been through so much. Her mother died, her father left her, her grandpa went to jail. Family is extremely important to her, just like feeling safe and loved is. She wants to have a family and feel loved and know that those people are never going to leave her. And she has formed a very loving relationship with Elizabeth. Honestly Elizabeth is probably the only mother figure she's ever really known. And so the idea of her uncle liking Elizabeth, and possibly marrying her (Making her a part of their family and a permanent mother to her) is probably Allie's biggest dream right now.

    She doesn't understand why Elizabeth is dating Lucas (Cough! Mr. Bouchard) and not her uncle. Her hopes were raised super high when they were about to go to dinner together. Truthfully... that was possibly the first time she felt like she was actually apart of a family. Her mother died when she was too young to remember much, if anything, and then her father abandoned her.

    And so I totally understand Allie's actions. But... oh boy. Wow, has she taken things into her own hands. And Elizabeth is so overwhelmed with trying to figure out how to make things better for her. She feels so bad at the pain she's caused Allie, but can't find a way to fix it. And things only became worse when she saw that invitation with her and Nathan sitting to dinner. Wow! Allie is bold!

    Elizabeth then had to tell the poor girl she wasn't coming to dinner, and that she was seeing Lucas. It all ended with Allie tearing the invitation and running off angrily. The poor heart-broken girl. I'm very curious to see how this gets resolved, and how soon it does. I have a feeling a very difficult and heart-felt conversation is coming, possibly from both Nathan and Elizabeth.

 

Oo La La!

    (Clears throat...) EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEK!!!!!

    The romance! The passion! The sparks! (Sighs happily before melting into a puddle beneath office chair.)

    Oh... You guys... I felt it! The connection! The depth! The... the steam. Lol! 

    Guys… This is the very first time during this entire season that I actually felt an episode point to a Lucas ending. And I’m SO happy about it! You’ve all probably heard by now how I felt the past 7 episodes pointed to Elizabeth choosing Nathan. He just seemed like the obvious, predictable choice. But now? Now I think… she may really be picking Lucas!!!

    I just don’t know how the writers would be able to reverse all this romance in only four episodes. And after that scene in Lucas’ office…. Wow. Yeah. (Is it hot in here?)

    But let me start back at the beginning.

    So first we saw Lucas watching Elizabeth and Nathan’s exchange while (As McNally put it) brandishing a tea cup. (Honestly what is it with that guy and his tea cup? Lol!) I actually wonder if this is done to build his character a bit. It gives personality and shows that although he runs a saloon he seldom drinks. Anyhow I doubt how much he could hear of Elizabeth and Nathan’s conversation from up there, but he may have been able to see their facial expressions. If so he’d know the exchange wasn’t a pleasant one.

    He then calls out to Nathan as he’s riding away and Nathan very snippily tells him to “save it.” Ouch! Really, Nathan? (But more on him later.)

    As for Lucas and Elizabeth…. The chemistry and connection is back! I finally felt the depth I had been missing between them. And it felt so good! I really applaud Elizabeth for coming to tell Lucas about the whole adoption ceremony mishap. That was so… couple-ish! She didn’t have to, but she felt the need to share that event with Lucas as she is currently dating him. Bravo, girl!

     Sadly they got interrupted by Lucas’ phone… and then Lucas had an argument with some art guy… in French. (And apparently he was not pleased.) Lol! He actually asked Elizabeth to pardon his French. But I understand his frustration even though I’m not quite sure what he’s buying his parents. It’s his parent’s anniversary and they separated. Obviously he wants this to be a really, really great gift. Maybe he even wants it to bring them closer together, and try and help them.

    Anyhow, he asks could they discuss the ceremony situation over dinner that night, when Lucas can give her his full attention. (A very smart move.) Elizabeth then goes to leave, when she turns back and says, "See you later"... in French. Aww! Talk about being flirty!

    And can we back up a minute and talk about that office? I mean, we actually got to see inside Lucas’ office! That was neat to finally see. And apparently he’s a fan of Houdini, considering the framed articles about him on his wall. (Makes sense.)

    The next time we see them, Lucas is smiling at Elizabeth’s beaming expression after helping Angela. He says…. “If that is the way you look over one happy student, you must have been just beaming at this year's graduation.” This is a very interesting comment as it showed us that he truly did want to attend the graduation ceremony. But he was trying to be kind to Nathan and Allie. (Bless his heart.)

    He then saw Elizabeth's dismay and guilt over how distraught Allie is over her rejecting Nathan. He kindly assures her that it's not her fault, and then made a very big, and honest statement...

    He claims that he could accept Elizabeth being friends with Nathan. Wow. Talk about being the bigger man. Honestly I think he would always be wary of her being around Nathan, but I applaud him for his statement. He also then says that he doesn't think Nathan will ever settle for just her friendship. Amen. This is very true, and we've seen this time and time again. Nathan never has been able to accept her with Lucas, or her decision to reject him. Now largely due to the fact that I am Team Lucas I could see her and Nathan being friends one day. But... I don't know how quickly that would come about. Just yet anyway.

    We then had Christopher outright threaten Lucas... Ouch. Poor Lucas. His face clearly showed his shock at the situation and the guilt and hurt he felt. And he instantly left very disheartened.

    We then come... to the best part of the whole episode. Lol! Yep. You know what I'm talking about. I'm talking about that office scene between Elizabeth and Lucas.

Warning. Intense gushing about to ensue.

    After Christopher threatened Lucas, and he left very sadly, Elizabeth went to his office to find him. Poor Lucas! He literally went and locked himself up in his office for the next who knows how many hours. He must be so conflicted and feel so guilty. He had no idea about how bad Henry's health was, and feels terrible about Christopher's fear for his father and how angry he became.

    And for once Lucas was the one to cancel dinner plans. He was just really not in the mood, and Elizabeth understood. BUT.... instead of leaving... she did something that was so very sweet. (And romantic!) She didn't leave him with a pat on the shoulder. Instead she actually asked him to come and sit beside her, offering to stay and talk. I mean... how sweet is that? She knew Lucas was feeling so terrible right then, and wanted to stay and comfort him. Now if that doesn't speak to her feelings, I don't know what does.

    Honestly, this is one of the first times she has actually made a move toward him showing how much she cares. This was something I was lacking before. Lucas had shown time and time again how he feels about her, but she had yet to show how she felt. And that little "come hither tap" on the seat? Talk about flirty!

    And instantly her suggestion brings a smile to Lucas' face. He then comes and sits next to her... and instantly they realize just how close they are and laugh. Lol! Elizabeth's "cozy" makes me laugh, as she said what every Heartie was probably thinking in that moment.

    And then... cue the sparks! Lucas and Elizabeth lock eyeballs, their expressions going from laughter to something much more... intimate. You can just see and feel the attraction that they have to each other in that moment! Elizabeth then gently looks down to his hand... and then slowly places her hand in his.

    (Holds in gushing squeal....) Oh, the sparks! And as if that wasn't romantic enough... it got even better! Again their gazes locked, and instantly a certain lady's eyes dropped to a certain man's lips. She so wanted him to kiss her in that moment! She's clearly attracted to him, but still so scared of getting too close.

    Lucas then starts to lean in... and we think we may just get that kiss when.... he says, "I think it's very kind of you to sit here with me." What? Oh, Lucas! You could have had your kiss! Lol! Honestly I'm actually glad they didn't as I want to wait for that big, built up, climactic kiss at the end. (Well, I hope that's what we get anyway. Lol!)

    Elizabeth then gets this sweet little smirk at Lucas who continues on to say... "But I think perhaps you should go." What now? You're kicking her out? Lol! Elizabeth seems a bit confused at first but Lucas quickly explains that he wants to be "patient." (Aww!!!) He also says that he wants her to be completely comfortable. (Double aww!!!) 

    There he is! That's my Lucas! Honestly, that was just so sweet, and so respectful of him. He knows that Elizabeth is still not quite emotionally ready for a lot of romance. She's still finding her way... and she's still wearing her wedding ring! And I'm positive he knows that. The rings really serve as a sign of her emotional state. They're still on her finger and so she obviously hasn't moved on completely just yet. And so, Lucas being the gentleman that he is, actually denied himself the chance to kiss Elizabeth. And further more, he actually advised her to go because he knew that he wouldn't be able to be patient like he promised her if she stayed. Bravo, Bouchard! 

   And Elizabeth clearly appreciated it. She got this cute little smile, and thanked him for his patience. Lucas then responded in a highly romantic whisper..."Thank you for coming." (Trying... to hold back... the gushing...Ugh!) That was SO romantic!

    And then... Oh, my heart! He tenderly takes her hand (Which he had been holding with BOTH of his own) and raises it to his lips for a gentle kiss. (Okay... I can't hold back anymore...) Eeeeeeeeek!!! Oh, my goodness! I mean... wow! Talk about steamy! 

 

    And something hit Elizabeth in this moment. The look on her face said so. Once again it was like that "realness" set in. Until this moment Lucas had never kissed her. Not on the hand, or the cheek. Nothing. And after he did that it was like we could see the shift from things being "almost something" to "things just got real." I mean... just look at her face. I actually believe she maybe got scared in that moment of how she felt. I also believe Lucas was doing his dog-gone best to hold back and be patient. Lol!

    They both then rose, still very much shaken from the moment. Elizabeth opens the door to leave when suddenly... she turns back, her mouth opening as if she was going to say something. What was she going to say? I have no idea. Lucas raised his eyes to hers, waiting for her to speak. But then she turned and left. (And I shall never know what she wanted to say...)

    You guys... oh wow. That scene was smoking! And Elizabeth felt it as she grabbed a menu once she was out of the office and started fanning her face. Lol! I loved that! And it was SO telling! Honestly that served as one of the biggest indicators to me of her feelings for Lucas. If she literally had to fan herself after that moment... yeah. No one can tell me she doesn't feel something for that man. I also seem to remember her doing something similar in S1.... after seeing Jack... Hmm.... ;)

    (Also Gustave's knowing smirk was the cherry on top of the whole scene. Lol!)

    And that was the end of their scenes together for this episode. However we did see Lucas looking on with concern while Elizabeth and Nathan were having their argument. Now I doubt he was able to hear anything, but he could clearly tell that things were far from pleasant. I almost wonder what he would have done if the scene had played out a little bit longer. Would he have gone after Elizabeth? Would he have confronted Nathan? I mean, Nathan tried to put his hand on Elizabeth's arm and she jerked back. Did Lucas see that?

    I actually really want Lucas to confront both Elizabeth and Nathan in this next episode. I do worry what people would say about Lucas should he angrily confront Nathan, but... I personally would love to see him ask the Mountie what he did to upset his girl. I guess we'll see.

    In the end… I have never quite been this hopeful after watching an episode. For the first time this season I actually felt things pointing to Lucas possibly being the man Elizabeth picks. Yay!

    I felt the sparks, the depth I’ve been lacking, the emotion I’ve been wanting to see from Elizabeth, and now I don’t need to take a shower as I’m all steamed out. Lol!

    Yes, this episode was one of my favorite episodes for Elizabeth and Lucas. Actually… it may just be the best one yet. :)

 

Fort Clay....

   And now I know. I... I.... Oh wow.

   (Let me start at the beginning.)

    To start Elizabeth confronts Nathan about what happened at the adoption ceremony. She actually seems to believe that Nathan was in on the whole scheme, which makes Nathan smugly retort, "Of all the names I saw on the list... yours wasn't one of them."

    Now I did find Nathan's remark quite... snarky to be honest. But however I totally understand his point of view. Elizabeth accused him of something quite sneaky, believing he had been in on Allie's scheme. What he said was right. If that's what she thinks he would do, then she doesn't know him very well. I don't think Nathan would ever have done something like that on purpose. Especially not with Allie being involved. But... ouch anyway.

    However.... His comment to Lucas was not acceptable. Lucas is merely greeting him as he passes by (No doubt because he saw the Mountie talking to his girl) and Nathan retorts, "Save it." I mean... ouch! That certainly held a lot of... bitterness. Not that I don't understand his frustration of the moment, and his dislike for Lucas but... yeah. That was not his finest moment.

    We then saw Nathan confronting Bill about accusing Henry's son without any evidence. I applaud Nathan here as he was right. Bill can't just call out Christopher just because he's Henry's son and because the timing seems to add up. He needs solid evidence first. And he put a lot of stress and tension on Henry unnecessary. (Ultimately causing his episode most likely.)

    Anyhow, we then got a brief scene with Nathan and Allie where he tried to talk about what happened at the adoption ceremony. From Allie's "again" obviously he had talked to her somewhat before, but felt he needed to address the issue again. (Which I agree with.) But... good old Florence. Always there just in time to interrupt. Lol! Nathan even tried to put her off, but.... he just HAD to go. :D

    We didn't see Nathan again until.... he showed up at the oil derrick Ooof... (Wags finger at Nathan) No, no, Nathan. Bad boy. ;) I am definitely biased on my opinion as I am Team Lucas. But I will attempt to give my thoughts on this moment anyway. :D

    Now I'm not quite sure why Nathan was at the oil derrick in the first place. He may have been on his rounds, or returning from "re-capturing" that crook. Either way he didn't have to walk up to Lucas.... but he did. It kind of gives the impression that he was looking for trouble, unless he was curious about the tension he could see between Christopher and Lucas. I don't know. So Nathan makes a note of how angry Christopher is, and Lucas says he has every right to be. Nathan then says, "Oh, yeah? How so?"

    Again his tone sounded like he was looking for trouble. And I'm not saying Lucas acted perfectly either but his response was correct. He doesn't owe Nathan any explanation. (Especially after Nathan's "Save it" earlier.)

    And then... Nathan got bold. He upright tells Lucas that he still hasn't given up on Elizabeth. Whoa! I mean... hold the phone! Did you really just walk up to a man and tell him to his face that you, Mr. Mountie, are going to try and steal his girl? In broad daylight? Wow. I have to admit that was not Nathan's best moment, nor do I consider it his smartest move. I think he would have been better off not telling Lucas of his plans and just trying to win Elizabeth over. Now Lucas is going to be keeping a close eye on him. But... Nathan was very honest. I'll give him that.

    Lucas then says, "You can do whatever you want. But you better make good sure you have Elizabeth and Allie's best interests at heart. Not your own."

    (Clears throat.) Team Nathan you may want to cover your ears.... 

    You tell him Lucas!! Lol! I know, I know... I'm such a Team Lucas girl. :D But I truly agree with what Lucas said. These past three seasons Nathan never seemed to be able to accept Elizabeth's decisions.

    And now I would like to take this moment to discuss Nathan's behavior this episode. (Team Nathan you've been warned.) 

    Now I will try and be fair here, but I do have to say Nathan was quite... snarky this episode. He was kind of moody and irritated and... I just don't know if he was justified in being so. Now I have no idea all that's going through his head, especially with his whole "Fort Clay secret." (More on that in a bit.) And with the whole adoption ceremony incident, Allie's behavior, his dislike over Lucas and Elizabeth together, his feelings for Elizabeth, and chasing down a bad guy (Twice!) .... yeah. He had a reason to be grumpy. 

    I just don't think it helps people root for his character. He has never treated Lucas well, while Lucas has remained more civil with him, even when he didn't have to. (Granted Lucas has had his moments too.) Nathan should be doing the honorable thing here and treating everyone with respect, including Lucas. 

    But that's just my two cents. :)

    The last scene with Nathan.... was the big moment we've been waiting for. And goodness was it filled with tension and emotion!!! Oh, my heart you guys! I mean... I just.... Jack.... (Sniff!) 

    I had been wondering for awhile just how Nathan was involved with Jack's death. I knew his secret probably had to do with that, but I wasn't sure to what extent. I thought maybe Nathan was the one who tried to save him, or was the Mountie Jack pushed out of the way. Dang, I even wondered if he somehow caused the landslide. It just seemed that Nathan actually causing Jack's death was too dramatic a route to go...

    And I was wrong.

    So Elizabeth approaches Nathan during Bill's send off, very upset. She'd just gone through that emotional scene with Allie, and was looking to talk with her. Nathan then says that Allie is at home and is too afraid to talk to Elizabeth without him there. (Wow.) Elizabeth is taken back by this news, clearly disturbed that Allie is actually afraid to talk to her. That had to hurt.

    The band then starts playing and Nathan asks could thy talk about this issue afterward. But Elizabeth holds firm and tells him that they can't. It's too serious an issue to wait. Elizabeth says that she was afraid that this would happen if things didn't work out between her and Nathan. Now hold up one minute! Again it's like she's implying that her and Nathan were dating at one point.... and they never even made it to the cafe. But in trying to go out with both their families I guess that's where she gets this from. Allie was included in that one dinner. Nathan may have even mentioned how Elizabeth was considering trying to go out with him again. And so Allie very much got involved.

    Nathan doesn't know what to say to Elizabeth or do at this point. He tried to explain things to Allie, but no matter what he can't convince Allie that Elizabeth isn't to blame. But Elizabeth agrees with Allie's reasoning. She knows that of course Allie wouldn't blame her beloved uncle. She would blame the woman who rejected him. That totally makes sense and is the way it should be.

    Elizabeth then goes on to explain that she tried to tell Nathan before at their parent/teacher conference how important he is to Allie. He's her foundation, and so if he lets her down her entire world falls apart.

    And Nathan knows this. He says that that's part of the reason why he's been trying his best not to show Elizabeth how he feels about her. Whoa now! Hold up a minute! That was... blatantly honest. I suppose that's why he hasn't made a move toward her after she broke things off with him maybe? He knew for Allie to see him pursuing Elizabeth, it would put ideas in her head and get her hopes up. Especially since he knew Elizabeth would possibly only keep rejecting him. He had no way of knowing what would happen, and so to protect his little girl, he kept his feelings inside himself.

   I do have to give kudos to him for that. He's shown us just how important Allie is to him, and just how much he loves her. She is his world. He puts her first, and then himself.

    He then made a huge statement. He then admitted that Allie was the reason he turned down the inspector job. Now we knew this, but his next comment was very interesting and telling. He says that, there was nothing he would have welcomed more than to leave Hope Valley. Again...whoa. I mean... let me just let that sink in for a minute. This all happened after S6's "Ladies' Choice" finale. He obviously must have given up all hope of pursuing Elizabeth after seeing her dance with Lucas.

    Nathan then went on to say how he'd never seen Allie so happy somewhere, and Elizabeth then says that's why they have to figure out how to make everything alright for her again. She then starts to say how he said himself how he stayed because Allie was happy, but then Nathan cuts in. He says that he said that was "part of the reason." He then stops there, and his face says it all. Elizabeth knows he's been hiding something. Keeping something inside. And finally she couldn't take it anymore.

    I mean wow! I have never quite seen Elizabeth so upset with Nathan or so... demanding. She just outright tells him that she knows he's been keeping something from her and she wants him to tell her.... Right now!

    And so he did.... With pain, and sorrow he tells her...

        Jack died... because Nathan disobeyed an order and got suspended.... so Jack.... took his place.

    😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱

        Oh... my... dear... gracious.

    What... What do I even say about that? Part of me says, "He killed Jack!!!" And then another part of me knows that was totally not his fault. And then another part of me is realizing that Nathan very well may have died had he not been suspended, and Allie would have lost him too!!! She would have had no one! I mean... wow. Poor Nathan! What a burden he's been carrying! 

    And Elizabeth is clearly shaken to her core, and she left instantly. The look on her face telling us so much. Oh, poor Elizabeth! I can only imagine the horror and grief she must be feeling.

    And now I have so many questions!

    Is this why Nathan came to Hope Valley in the first place? Is this why he stayed and turned down that inspector job? Is this why it was against his better judgement to court Elizabeth? Is this why he believes he loves her? Does he feel obligated and guilty about Jack's death so he feels the need to protect Elizabeth and take care of her? Or did he just simply fall in love with her despite what happened at Fort Clay and feared his secret would push her away forever? Honestly... that is some secret to keep, and for THREE YEARS!!! I don't know how Elizabeth is going to take that.

    Wow. This is such a HUGE plot-twist. I really didn't know they would go so dramatic with it but... wow. And now the big question remains.

    Will this be what brings Elizabeth and Nathan together.... or breaks things off between them for good?

    And that... is the end of this incredibly, and crazy long blog post. Lol! Wow. If you've stuck with me this far you are a real champ. :D

    Again this is my absolute favorite episode so far from Season 8. I loved the romance and the drama, and all the emotions it stirred! So good! Thank you very much to John Tinker for this wonderful episode!

    Thank you so much for reading! Feel free to tell me your thoughts in the comments below or on my Twitter page! (But please don't tell me any spoilers from future episode promos, previews, or interviews from the cast. Thank you!) Have a wonderful day! God Bless!

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