Abigail is beginning to let go of her grief and look toward the future with forensic investigator Bill Avery. Meanwhile, a hurt and confused Jack confronts Elizabeth about her new job offer back home.
Jack is hailed a hero after putting away the Tolliver outlaws, and has decided to come back to Coal Valley for good. But his return to town-and to Elizabeth-is unexpectedly complicated by the arrival of a gorgeous actress.
A determined Jack properly asks Elizabeth for a dinner date, finally making his romantic intentions clear. Elizabeth is excited, and is in for another very special surprise-an unexpected visit from her younger sister, Julie.
Abigail is encouraged to re-open Coal Valley's dilapidated and abandoned cafe and make it her own after Elizabeth raves about Abigail's baking. Meanwhile, Jack and Elizabeth are at odds after Elizabeth's brief romance.
Saying goodbye to Jack has left Elizabeth heartbroken, but she tries to stay strong in front of her class. Meanwhile, wanting to continue the investigation she started with Jack, Abigail tries to outwit Henry Gowen.
Elizabeth and Abigail emotionally move out of the row house and above Abigail's cafe, starting a new chapter and leaving memories behind. Elizabeth learns that she and her students must put on the Coal Valley Founders' Day play.
Elizabeth is feeling caught between overprotective Jack and new miner Billy Hamilton. When Jack tells her he has proof Billy lied to her, Elizabeth has had enough.
