Nate doesn't know when it happened, when he started collecting all these pseudo children, but apparently that's what's happening now. He never really thought of Beth in any kind of paternal way before and she certainly doesn't need him for that most of the time, but something about this conversation is steering that way and it makes him smile. She doesn't need his protection or his permission or even really his advice, but it's nice that she's telling him this anyway.

Elena would laugh for hours if he told her anyone was coming to him for advice on anything at all, and she'd certainly get a kick out of the way he's become something of a parent or mentor for Lila.

"Curtis, Curtis," he mutters, turning it over in his head to see if he recognises the name. Not someone he's met before, he's sure of it. He makes a mental note to seek him out and make sure he's worth her time. The things Beth is saying about him are very sweet and Nate trusts her judgement but he's still going to make sure. "Well, I'm happy for you, if he's as perfect as you say." He's teasing her a little, but he doesn't think she'll mind. "When do I get to meet him?"