Hello!:-) Here is my latest chapter. I need to put in a gentle warning: There will be angst for our beloved couple, beginning with this chapter. :-( I hope what I am trying to do will make sense as I continue the story. :-) Please don't come at me with pitchforks. Plastic forks are acceptable. :-) There is some happy/good E&L news in this chapter, too. :-) Thank you for your continued support of my story. I appreciate your kind reviews and comments on FF and Twitter. :-)

Chapter 11

Today, January 6, is my due date. I feel fine, but my darling husband is hovering around me like an annoying gnat that needs to be shooed away. I told him to go find something to do, and I would let him know when I need him. I love him dearly; however, for the last few months, and especially these past two weeks, as I have gotten closer to my due date and we celebrated Jack's birthday and the holidays, it's become more difficult to function without him or Jack, taking the lead from his father, asking me how I am doing. Jack, of course, does not understand what has happened to his mother, but we've told him that I will look like the mother he has been used to seeing once the baby has been born. That seems to satisfy him for a while until he asks again why do I look so different.

Lucas talks to the baby all the time, which I just adore. I don't want to look back at this writing and feel I was complaining because I totally am not. I am more amused than anything by my husband's and our son's behaviors and very grateful for their concern for my well-being and their support. I have loved and thoroughly enjoyed going through this pregnancy with Lucas by my side, being the ever attentive and doting husband he truly is. I am so very blessed, and I would not trade one moment of this time for anything. Lucas has been nothing short of wonderful and indulgent with me throughout my mood swings and my outlandish cravings, which did have him rolling his eyes and making facial gestures that made me laugh, and calming me during my moments of panic and doubt. He allays all of my fears and does it with such patience and compassion. I know we are going to love being parents to this child in the same way we love parenting Jack. I could not have asked for anyone better to be with me, and I never want to take these blessings I have been given or Lucas himself for granted. I will look back at this period of my life with nothing but fondness and love.

For some reason, we both believe we are having a girl, but we did decide on a boy's name, just in case: Benjamin James. Lucas wasn't too sure about the name, but I feel it's a strong name for a boy, and he agreed. We shall see, hopefully today or soon, what our baby's name will be.

Jack has loved helping us get things ready. We are thrilled he has warmed up to the idea of having a sibling. He picked out colors with us and pointed at the material he liked. He also told us the baby could have one of his blankets, which we thought was so cute and so kind.

While we have been getting prepared for our son or daughter's arrival, so much has happened to the other residents of Hope Valley. Francine and Nathan are now engaged, which pleases me, and I believe Lucas is happy for them, too. Lucas knows Francine will be assisting with the delivery of my baby at the Infirmary and he likes her, so we have tried to spend a little more time with her and Nathan. I think a mutual respect has occurred between my husband and Nathan. I don't know if a true friendship will ever ensue, but at least they are not enemies for which Francine and I are very grateful.

Nathan is also in the process of trying to adopt Allie. I can see Allie is excited about this development but is anxious, too. I know it must be hard for her to realize she may never see her father again or know him in any meaningful way, but I also know she's aware of how much her uncle loves her and wants to take care of her. I think it's fantastic that Allie has Francine now, too. I admit I'm relieved to see that Nathan's assignment seems to have had a positive effect on him. I was concerned about that aspect of his having to leave Hope Valley for an extended period of time because I know how affected Jack had been by being in the Northern Territories, so I'm thankful Nathan has come back with a more determined yet approachable attitude towards all of us. I wish all three of them nothing but the best.

Clara and Jesse's marriage seems stronger than ever, which also delights Lucas and me. They took Fiona's advice and went out of town for a long weekend. I think it helped both of them to heal even more. My hope is they will experience the joy of being parents one day.

Speaking of being parents, Rosemary and Lee have visited Brookfield to look more seriously into adoption. Lucas and I couldn't be happier for them. David is an absolute joy, and I know if they were to bring another child into their home, he or she would be loved equally, and David would have a sibling much the same way Jack will. The idea of more family and the love it will bring to Hope Valley and to the Coulters, in particular, fills my heart with such joy.

And family is what we will have, too. My sister Julie is due to arrive today. She decided to plan her trip to coincide with my due date. I think it will be nice for her to be here right after the baby is born and then travel to Hamilton to visit with our parents and get a few things finalized for her wedding. I know she and Alexander cannot wait until their wedding day. We have talked more these past couple of months; my sister has never sounded happier. Lucas and I couldn't be more pleased for the happy couple.

Lucas's mother was going to come, too, but we decided maybe it would be better if she waited until spring. I will have my deadline looming by then, and I so want Helen to be able to read my manuscript in person. I still need her help tremendously, and she has been so kind and gracious with me. I'm thankful my book is almost finished, as I know, and as my darling husband has gently pointed out, I will most likely not have time nor the inclination to write like I have been, so if Helen can come in a couple of months and help me finalize my novel to send to Branson Publishing by early summer that would definitely be a huge weight off of my shoulders.

Despite not truly liking her job, Fiona has remained with Gowen Petroleum. She and Mike are so cute together. We ladies know she would rather be doing something else, but since she's not sure what that is, she has made, what I think, is the wise decision to stay where she's at until she's sure. Mike encourages her to pursue her passion, but he also knows some opportunities, unfortunately, are not available in Hope Valley. Fiona says she is fine for now. We encourage her, too. I asked her if she wanted to fill in for me for a day or two at the school. She's thinking about it. I know she loves children, and they adore her, but she's not sure that's what she wants to do either. There will be an assigned substitute teacher for my class. The children tell me they will miss me, but they are happy for Lucas and me, too. They are all very sweet and kind and can't wait to meet the newest Bouchard. I couldn't ask for a better group of children to teach.

Just as Elizabeth readied her pen to write about Faith and Carson, she experienced her first contraction. The pen slipped from her hand, but she remained calm and seated and rode it out, knowing that would most likely be the first of many and that one contraction did not mean they had to rush to the Infirmary.

A few minutes later when she picked up the pen to continue writing, however, she nearly doubled over with the next and much stronger contraction. She let a small cry escape from her lips which Lucas heard and came rushing to her.

"Are you all right?"

She nodded. "The contractions are starting."

"We need to get to the Infirmary."

"Not yet," she told him. "We have time."

"Elizabeth, are you sure?"

"I'm sure, but let Rosemary know, so she can watch Jack until my sister….arrives."

She grimaced as another sharp pain seared her middle.

"I'm calling Rosemary. I think we should go to the Infirmary. You should probably be lying down, too."

"I'm okay, but I will stand up. Walking is probably good for me."

As soon as Elizabeth rose from the chair, she and Lucas realized it was time.

Rosemary dashed to their home as soon as she heard Lucas's voice.

"Elizabeth! This is so exciting. Don't you worry about a thing. We will take good care of Jack, and we will be on the lookout for Julie."

"Thank you, Rosemary," Lucas said.

"I need to say goodbye to Jack," Elizabeth said.

"Sit on the sofa," Lucas said, escorting her into the living room. "I will get Jack."

Rosemary sat next to her and held her hand.

"Are the contractions close together?"

"A little. I thought we had more time, but I think Lucas is right. I should….."

She stopped talking as another pain nearly took her breath away.

"Don't talk," Rosemary said, gently squeezing her hand. "Save your energy for the baby. You're going to need it."

Elizabeth nodded.

Jack scampered towards Elizabeth.

"Bye, Mama. Daddy said you have baby now."

"That's right, my sweet boy," she managed to get out.

She leaned forward as best she could to give him a hug and a kiss.

"You be good for Auntie Rosemary and Auntie Julie and Uncle Lee."

Jack watched as his mother's face contorted in pain. His eyes widened as he looked at Lucas who also did not like seeing his wife in such distress, but he knew it had to be this way.

"It's okay, son," he said, kneeling to reassure Jack. "Mama's all right, but that's why we are going to see Dr. Carson like we talked about. Remember?"

Jack nodded. "Bye, Mama. Bye, Daddy. Love you."

"We love you, too," Lucas said, giving Jack a big hug and whispering to him everything would be all right while rubbing his back to reassure him. "We will see you later."

"'Kay."

"And we will have fun," Rosemary told him. "David can't wait to see you. Laura is there, too."

Jack nodded. He liked playing with David, but he couldn't help but feel a bit sad as he watched his parents leave.

"Come home soon?" he asked Rosemary, as she reached for his hand to walk him to her home.

"Your parents?"

Jack nodded.

"They will be home as soon as they can, and then you will meet your baby brother or sister. Oh, Jack. This is all very exciting. You are about to become a big brother!"

The little boy nodded, but for some reason, he didn't feel quite the same way.

Lucas alternated between sitting on the bench and pacing back and forth outside the Infirmary. He knew Elizabeth was in good hands with Carson, Faith and Francine making sure Elizabeth had everything she needed to have a safe and healthy birthing experience. They had both realized she had never been in the Infirmary to give birth since Jack had been born in a cabin, but they both felt confident everything would go smoothly. Lucas wished he could be with her, but she was adamant he wait outside until they told him the baby had been born. Carson confirmed that restriction. Lucas understood why, but still, he wanted to be with his wife, especially now.

Carson had mentioned he should go to the saloon to wait for news, but Lucas did not want to be that far away from Elizabeth. He knew being at the Queen of Hearts would do him no good, except he would be able to see and talk with his uncle, but he knew that could wait, too. There would be time to celebrate once he'd been told Elizabeth and their infant were fine.

An hour, which felt like five, had passed when he saw Julie approaching, carrying her valise.

"Lucas!' she exclaimed, when she saw him standing outside, "is my sister in labor?"

"Hi, Julie," he greeted. "Yes. We've been here about an hour. No news yet, but her contractions were very strong and not that far apart, so we're hoping she won't be in labor too long."

"This is so exciting! I was hoping I wouldn't miss the birth. Where is Jack?"

"He's at Rosemary and Lee's house with Rosemary and Laura. They're expecting your arrival."

"I will put my things in your house and then go see him. I'm sure he's excited but maybe a little anxious, too?"

"You're right. He seemed more anxious than excited when we were leaving. We know he's trying his best to understand, but we also know this is probably a bit scary for him."

Julie nodded. "We will keep him occupied. That's the best thing for him."

"Thank you, Julie. We are very grateful you are here."

"Thank you for letting me be here. I can't wait to meet my niece or nephew and to see my sister."

"I'll come by as soon as I know anything."

"Thanks. See you later."

"By the way, Julie?"

She turned around.

"You are wearing a stunning diamond engagement ring. Congratulations again to you and Alexander."

Julie beamed. "Thank you, Lucas. We are so happy. He sends his best wishes to all of you, too. I can't wait to tell Alex about the baby! I miss him so much."

Another hour passed with no news. Lucas wished he could at least hear something, but Carson made sure the door and windows were closed. Why couldn't Francine come out and tell him what was happening? He knew he wasn't the first husband to go through this nor would he be the last, but that knowledge did not make this waiting any easier.

Main Street being relatively quiet did not help either, even though he knew he should be grateful he wasn't seeing a lot of people on this particular day. Businesses were open, but there was not a lot of foot traffic. Maybe people were still recovering from the holidays, he reasoned. The day happened to be a cold and wet one, too, which as he began to focus on the inclement weather, made the day seem longer and somehow drearier.

He shook off that thought. This was going to be one of the happiest days of his life once he knew Elizabeth had given birth and that his wife and their baby were fine and healthy. The sun did not need to be shining in the big blue sky for him to know this day would be filled with bright promises and joy. Hopefully, in the next few hours, if not sooner, he would be holding his son or daughter and be able to see his wife smiling once more as the pain of childbirth would be but a fading memory and they could lavish their love and affection on their newborn. He wanted to bask in that moment and looked forward to doing so with his beautiful wife.

He held on to that hope and belief as another hour passed ever so slowly with no news.

Inside the Infirmary, Carson coaxed Elizabeth through another excruciating contraction. Francine stood at her side, trying to keep her calm and aware so she could listen to Carson's instructions, while Faith assisted Carson in whatever way he needed.

Elizabeth realized she'd had a relatively easy birth with Jack as another contraction almost knocked her out. She had not experienced these types of prolonged and intense labor pains with Jack, and she wasn't sure she could continue to endure them. Carson kept assuring her she was doing fine and everything was going well, but she didn't feel that way. Panic began to rise inside her.

Francine knew what was happening when Elizabeth put her hand in a vise grip and screamed in agony. She wiped her forehead and brow and talked soothingly to her to try to get her to relax.

Where is Lucas? Elizabeth's mind screamed.

She wanted him there with her. He could get her through this. She didn't believe anyone else could, even though she knew they were all doing their jobs. She just wanted the pain to end. She wanted to see her baby, and she wanted Lucas to be there with her.

"You're doing great, Elizabeth," Carson encouraged. "The head is beginning to crown. It won't be long now."

Elizabeth looked at Francine for confirmation. Was Carson telling the truth or just trying to appease her? She needed to know because this pain had to end. Soon.

"I know it feels like forever," he continued, "but honestly, you haven't been in labor that long. This is normal. Everything you're experiencing is normal for childbirth. Just keep breathing the way we showed you and keep your focus on Francine. I'm going to guide you, okay? Listen to my voice and do what I tell you to do."

She nodded, unable to speak. Her voice, other than crying out at certain intervals when she had to have some type of release, had been rendered mute from agony and pure exhaustion.

She relaxed her hold on Francine's hand when she had a moment of respite from the pain. Grateful to be able to feel her fingers once more, Francine wiped Elizabeth's face again and brushed the damp hair away from her cheeks.

"You're doing fine," she told her. "Just listen to Dr. Shepherd and do what he says."

Elizabeth nodded again.

Please let me give birth soon. Please.

Another two hours passed and suddenly, Lucas heard the door click open. He jumped up from the bench where he had been trying not to doze, ready to dash into the Infirmary when Faith rushed out, shaking her head and crying, telling Lucas how sorry she was as she brushed past him. She continued to run in the opposite direction. His heartbeat and pulse accelerated as he watched her, unable to grasp what she'd meant and what had happened in the Infirmary. Without further thought, he bolted inside. Carson stepped in front of him and stopped his progress by gripping both of Lucas's arms.

"Faith!" Lucas exclaimed. "She...she apologized and ran past me. She was crying. What's going on, Carson? What happened? Where's Elizabeth? Where's our baby?"

"Let's go outside."

"But I need to see…"

"Outside."

Fear and dread consumed Lucas as he followed Carson. What had happened? Why couldn't he see his wife and their baby?

Dear God, please don't let anything have happened to them. Please.

"First of all, congratulations. You have a beautiful daughter."

"I have…we have…we have a daughter? Elizabeth gave birth? The baby is…okay?"

"She's fine. She's healthy and strong."

"Then why did Faith….no…No…NO! Carson, tell me Elizabeth is all right! Tell me my wife is okay!"

Lucas headed back inside, determined to see his wife and make certain she was all right. Carson grabbed his arm to stop him and forced Lucas to look at him.

"Elizabeth will be…fine."

Lucas's eyes narrowed. "Will be? As in, she's not fine right now? Carson, tell me what happened!"

"Elizabeth had some difficulty while in labor. Unfortunately, during and immediately after she gave birth, she lost a lot of blood. We weren't able to stop the bleeding in time, but we have now. But she went into shock. She hasn't awakened. Yet. But she will. We just don't know when."

Lucas involuntarily sank to the bench. Not Elizabeth. Not his beautiful wife and the mother of his children. This can't be happening. This was supposed to be one of the happiest days of their lives. Instead, it was turning into a nightmare.

Carson sat next to Lucas to try to make him understand.

"Lucas, Elizabeth is going to be all right. She's resting. We were able to stabilize her. Her body needs time to recover from the trauma it has endured, but the bleeding has stopped. I'm so sorry we didn't realize immediately what was happening, but it is under control now. Elizabeth is there, Lucas. You can talk to her, and she will hear you. You can hold her hand, and she will feel your touch. She will know you are with her. But she may not open her eyes for a few days until her body has had a chance to recover. We are going to monitor her every minute. Elizabeth is going to be fine."

"I need to see my wife," Lucas stated.

"Francine is getting Elizabeth prepared. We will move her to another bed. We will take care of your daughter, too. She's sleeping peacefully."

"No!" Lucas exclaimed. "I will take care of our daughter. I need to do this for Elizabeth. She needs to know she doesn't have to worry about anything while she's trying to get well."

"Okay," Carson said, seeing and hearing Lucas's steely determination. "We will set up a makeshift nursery for you."

"I want to see my wife and our baby girl. Please."

"I'll be right back."

When Carson went inside, Lucas dropped his head into his hands as he tried not to scream in frustration and anger. This cannot be happening. How would he tell Jack? How would he be able to care for their daughter, even though he knew he needed and wanted to, while not leaving Elizabeth's side for a moment? How would he hold himself together, which he knew he had to do for the sake of everyone around him, when all he wished was to turn back the clock a mere twenty-four hours and have them be in their blissful state before this nightmare had descended upon them?

When Carson beckoned, Lucas entered the Infirmary, trying to prepare himself for what he would see. What he found was his wife looking like an angel, lying on her back and sleeping soundly. Her pale complexion showed the remnants of having been in pain. His heart constricted. He despised the thought of Elizabeth being in any kind of agony, but especially not while she was trying to bring life into the world. It wasn't fair.

After Lucas had stood near Elizabeth's bed for a few long lingering moments willing her to open her eyes but knowing it was better if she remained in peaceful slumber, he saw Francine motion towards the small bassinet-like bed they had fashioned for Amelia who, as if knowing her father had entered the room, began to stir and tried to open her eyes. Lucas's heart constricted once more but for a totally different reason. He knew he was biased, but his daughter was absolutely beautiful and perfect in every way that mattered.

He quickly crossed to the area and gazed adoringly at his daughter as she tried to wake up.

"She's very active," Francine said. "She moves her arms and legs a lot, which is a good sign."

"May I hold her?" Lucas asked, not really sure what his daughter needed or what would make her happy, but he wanted to do whatever he could to let her know he was there for her, especially since, at the moment, her mother could not be.

"Of course," Carson said. "Did you and Elizabeth decide on a name?"

Lucas looked at Carson and Francine. "Amelia Catherine."

"That's a beautiful name for a beautiful baby," Francine said and sighed.

Carson agreed.

Francine now held Amelia in her arms, ready to show Lucas how to hold her.

"You have to be extra careful with her head and neck," she explained, showing him how she was holding his daughter, "but otherwise, just hold her close and love her."

Amelia fussed for a few moments when she first went into Lucas's loving gentle arms and then she settled in and looked at him as if she somehow knew he was her father and would always take care of her. Lucas gave her smooth forehead a soft kiss hoping his coarse hairs did not bother her, as he admired this bundle of joy he now had the honor of parenting.

"She has your eyes," Carson said and smiled.

"They are dark brown, aren't they?" Lucas said, unable to comprehend he was holding his daughter and at the same time, aching so badly he couldn't share this moment with his beloved wife.

Even while holding and coddling Amelia who felt so right in his arms, his own dark brown eyes couldn't help but wander to his wife, looking angelic and peaceful. And yet, all Lucas wanted was for her to wake up. He had to curb his selfish thoughts and concentrate on what was best for Elizabeth.

"Does Elizabeth know she gave birth to this beautiful baby girl?" he asked hopefully. "Did she get to see Amelia?"

Maybe it would help ease his anxious thoughts if he knew Elizabeth had known about their daughter and had seen her.

Carson and Francine looked at each other.

"At the time, she knew she had given birth to a girl," Carson explained.

"But she went into shock shortly thereafter," Francine added. "She did not see Amelia after she was born."

"So, when Elizabeth wakes up," Carson said, "she may not remember having given birth."

Lucas sucked in a harsh breath and then nodded.

So, chances were, Elizabeth didn't know or remember and had not seen Amelia. Lucas tried not to let his sadness and disappointment show.

Please know, somehow, you brought this beautiful baby girl into the world, my love, and that we are waiting for you to open your eyes so you can see her, and we can experience the joy her birth has given us.

"When Amelia goes back to sleep," Carson said, "you should think about letting Jack know what's happened, especially if you plan to spend the majority of your time here. I can come with you if you want. Francine can alert me if anything occurs. I truly don't expect Elizabeth's condition to change for at least a couple of days."

Lucas nodded sadly at that news.

"I will leave in a few minutes. I'll be okay. I don't want to scare Jack any more than I need to, and if he sees you with me and not his mother or the baby, he may panic."

Carson nodded. "I understand. I just thought if you needed to explain something to him, I could possibly help."

"I plan to keep it as simple as I can. I don't fully understand what happened, so I don't want to go into much detail with him. Julie is here now, too, so that will help. I'll let my uncle know, too, and of course, Rosemary and Lee. Bill and Abigail can probably help with Jack, too. We'll be okay."

Amelia fell asleep in Lucas's arms. He didn't want to stop holding her. She felt so right being cradled in his arms, and he wanted her to know how much he loved her, but Francine told him that Amelia should be lying down if she's asleep, especially since Lucas remained standing.

"I'll put her in the bassinet," he said.

While Carson went to check on Elizabeth, Francine remained with Lucas, making sure he did everything correctly.

"She's tiny, but she's feisty," Francine said. "She's a healthy weight and length. Those are all positives, Lucas. Elizabeth did great; unfortunately, her body couldn't fully cooperate. Once Elizabeth has had a chance to recover, she'll be fine."

"You're not just saying that, right?" Lucas asked, searching the nurse's kind and compassionate face.

"Lucas, I would not do that. Carson is right. Elizabeth is strong. She just needs time to heal. She is going to be all right."

Lucas nodded. "So, it's a waiting game?"

"Basically. I know it's terrible you two are not able to share in this joy, but you will. And soon. You looked like a natural holding Amelia, and she seemed comfortable in your arms. You and Elizabeth will get to enjoy being parents. You just have to have patience."

There's that word again.

"I pray you are right," Lucas said. "I'd like to sit with Elizabeth for a few minutes before I leave to let the others know."

"Of course. Carson just finished checking on her. We will monitor Amelia until you return."

"Thank you, Francine. For everything."

She looked at him and smiled. "You're welcome. You're going to have your wife with you again soon, Lucas. Please believe that."

"I have to," he said solemnly. "Hope, faith, patience and love are all I have."

He realized how true that statement was. There was nothing else he could contribute to make Elizabeth better because if there was, he would move mountains to make it happen. But her healing and opening her eyes were out of his control.

"You are welcome to sit with Elizabeth," Carson told Lucas. "And please talk to her as much as you can and hold her hand. She needs to know you are here. She will not be able to respond, but I'm sure it will bring her comfort to know you are with her."

Lucas nodded and then made his way to the chair Carson had set up for him. He sat down and stared at his lovely wife who had not moved. Her breathing seemed even, for which he was grateful, and a touch of color had returned to her cheeks, but she still looked so frail and somewhat traumatized.

He reached for her right hand which was colder than he thought it would or should be and offered her his warmth.

"Elizabeth," he whispered, "it's Lucas, sweetheart. I know you are sleeping, and I know you need time to get well, but Carson says you can hear me and feel my touch. I'm here, my love. I'm going to stay with you until you wake up so I can see your beautiful blue eyes once again. We have a darling baby girl, Elizabeth. You were amazing giving birth to her. Amelia is here, my love, and we are waiting for you to join us. I'm taking care of everything. I'll make sure Jack is fine. We just want you to get better and come back to us so we can be a family again. I love you, my sweet and precious angel. Please feel my love, sweetheart, and know I am with you. Please."

He brushed the hair away from her cool forehead and let her feel his warm gentle touch on her skin as he continued to gaze at her.

"You look so peaceful," he commented, trying hard not to let his emotions overwhelm him as he realized she had not stirred at all. "It's so heartbreaking to imagine or comprehend what you have endured, but I know you're in there, Elizabeth. And I know when the time is right, you will return to us. Take your time, my darling. We will be here when you wake up. We are not going anywhere."

He pressed her soft hand to his lips, not wanting to release her, not wanting to break contact, wanting only to offer her the warmth of his touch, but also realizing time was passing quickly and he needed to let others, namely Jack and Julie, know what was going on.

"I love you, my beautiful wife," he said, his voice breaking.

He paused to collect himself. He could not and would not have her hear his struggle. He wanted her to hear only positive words.

"You continue to rest and get better. I will be back before you know it. I don't want to leave you, Elizabeth, but I have to. I need to see Jack and make sure he is all right. Julie is here, too. I'll be gone for just a little while and then I will be back. Carson and Francine are here, and they are going to take excellent care of you and Amelia. I will be back. Soon. I promise."

While Carson moved to stand behind him and clasped a firm hand on his shoulder for support, Lucas reluctantly released Elizabeth's hand and laid it gently on top of the blanket.

"You did well," Carson encouraged. "Elizabeth and Amelia will be fine until you return."

Lucas nodded, still looking at Elizabeth, unable to trust himself to speak. Tears threatened, but he knew he couldn't give in to them. People were counting on him to be strong, including his wife, and he knew he couldn't and wouldn't let any of them down. He needed to buck up and be the man, the husband, and the father he had promised Elizabeth he would be. They would get through this. He knew they would because they'd always had. This time would be no different. He would have his wife back and healthy. Maybe not today or tomorrow or even the day after that, but soon, she would open her eyes and return to them as if she had never left. That was the way it had to be, he reasoned, because he had absolutely no idea how he would be able to go on if Elizabeth wasn't by his side.

After checking on Amelia, who was sound asleep and who also looked like an angel, Lucas told Carson and Francine he would be heading home to talk with Jack.

"Will you drive back and forth?" Carson asked, when they stepped outside.

The air had gotten chillier, but the rain had stopped. Lucas decided to walk.

"I'll leave the car here if that's all right. I think a walk will do me good."

"Of course. I hope you are able to explain things well enough to Jack. Please have people around him when you tell him and don't leave until you are sure he's okay with you being gone. He's going to be frightened, Lucas."

"I know. That's why it'll be good for me to walk. I can think about how to approach this."

"Take your time. We have things covered here. Only Elizabeth and Amelia will be allowed in the Infirmary. Francine and I will figure out what to do for the next few days, depending on how Elizabeth is doing."

Lucas nodded. "Thank you, Carson. I'll be back, like you said, once I know Jack is okay, but call me if anything changes. I want to know immediately."

"I will. Good luck, Lucas. I know this will be a difficult conversation, but I also know you can do it."

"Thanks."

As Carson watched Lucas walk slowly towards his home, his mind traveled, too. Where had Faith gone? He needed to let her know that what had happened to Elizabeth was not her fault, even though he knew, based on how she had reacted when she realized what their patient had experienced, she would probably never believe the condition Elizabeth now found herself in wasn't due to Faith Carter's inability to diagnose quickly enough what had been happening to Elizabeth while she had been trying to give birth.

The last six months had been rocky for Faith and Carson, both personally and professionally, and their struggles seemed to come to a head with a loud thud when Faith had violently shaken her head and apologized profusely for her role in what had transpired after she had witnessed what had happened to Elizabeth. He had to find Faith before she did something foolish, such as abandoning the idea she could ever be a doctor.