After the disastrous S8 (especially the finale), this story would not leave me alone. I couldn't imagine Bill Avery just accepting Elizabeth's decision. This is my very first fanfic, so please be gentle. I will always be on Team Nathan, so Team Lucas fans, may wish to give this a pass. Disclaimer - I do not own anything to do with When Calls the Heart or Hallmark.

Elizabeth first met Nathan while he was dressed in uniform. She also broke his heart when he was dressed in uniform. This short vignette is an AU story – what if Elizabeth first met Nathan in casual attire and didn't know he was the Mountie? Does the measure of a man lie within the clothes he wears (aka Mountie uniform) or the substance he brings as a person?