Chapter 61 The Book Signing

The special evening had finally arrived. Rosemary had custom made Elizabeth a beautiful green satin gown for the occasion. Lucas had spent a lot of money having fifty copies of Elizabeth's book rebound with beautiful leather covers as a limited edition for her to sell and autograph. They also had another fifty paperback.

The library was beautifully decorated with candles and flowers. There was a table all set up for Elizabeth with a comfortable cushioned chair a cold glass of sour lemonade and a piece of chocolate cake which Elizabeth had been craving as of late. Lemonade and chocolate cake were not Lucas's favorite combination but he would indulge it to support his wife.

The leather cover books were neatly stacked on the right side of the table for five dollars a piece and the paperback on the left side of the table for two dollars each. They also had an order form in case they had more people show up than books to sell.

The Bouchard's, Gladys, and Julie pulled up in front of the library and Lucas helped her inside, making sure she was completely comfortable in every way. They were pleasantly surprised to see so many people in line outside the library. Elizabeth felt like a famous woman, all these people had come to get her autograph. She was finally living her dream, and it was all thanks to the wonderful man standing beside her through it all.

Lucas had a buffet table set up on the side of the room that had drinks and snacks. Lucas and Jack sat in the corner reading books while trying to remain close enough he could help his wife if she needed anything.

Elizabeth made it half way through the signing before she signaled for Lucas. "Darling, what is it?"

"Lucas, sweetheart I am hot can you possibly get me a fan?" She asked giving him a gentle kiss on the cheek.

"Of course, I will be right back." He headed to the Queen of Hearts to get the fan out of his office. When he returned he set it up for her exactly where she wanted it, readjusting it several times to accommodate her pickiness.

"Lucas, I think I need a minute to stretch my legs." She got up to take a brief walk outside. The extra weight was really taking a toll on her body. She hurt in places she didn't even know she had. Lucas announced there would be a fifteen minute intermission and offered everyone to visit the buffet table for snacks and drinks. Then he joined his lovely wife outside.

"Darling, are you going to make it?" He asked.

"Yes, my back is aching so badly." She complained.

Lucas knew that she had every right to complain. He could not help but feel extremely guilty for putting her in this position. How woman gave birth was beyond his comprehension. All he knew was there was no way he would be able to go through this. All he can do is offer her as much support as she needs. He gently ran his hands over her back several times massaging it until she said she was good.

She returned to her chair to finish her book signing. Gladys stood over Elizabeth's shoulder in case there was any sign of trouble. She was glued to Elizabeth's hip these days and Lucas wouldn't have it any other way. He was always one to be proactive rather than reactive. Wherever the Bouchard's went Gladys went too.

Ten more minutes went by and Elizabeth called out in excitement. "Lucas!"

Lucas rushed to her side afraid something was wrong, but when he got there she gently placed his hands on her stomach. He could feel the babies moving for the first time. It brought a tear to his eye. Rosemary and all the other ladies also came over to feel Elizabeth's stomach.

Lucas was so overcome by his emotions he had to leave for a bit. He took a walk outside when he saw Lee standing outside.

Lee asked, "Are you okay man?"

"I don't know Lee." He said. "I just felt my babies moving inside Elizabeth's stomach and the emotional overload got to me. Am I really cut out to be doing this Lee?"

"Lucas you are one of the best men I know. You are going to be fine. Remember we will lean on each other for support. I am there for you buddy." Lee reminded him as he patted him on the shoulder.

"I know Lee. I'm usually so confident, but having children has me so out of my element. I don't even feel like myself. I feel lost and uncertain." Lucas explained as he held in the unshed tears that were building in his eyes.

"Lucas, life is full of uncertainties. All you can do is roll with the punches. Quit trying to control the situation and enjoy the moment." Lee advised.

"You really are a great friend Lee. You give wonderful advice. Thank you for everything." Lucas thanked him as he shook his hand. He headed back inside to check on his wife.

"Elizabeth are you doing okay?" He asked gently massaging her shoulders.

"I could use some more lemonade." She said with a grin.

He gave her a quick kiss on the cheek and went to get her some more lemonade. He returned to her and handed her the glass. She was parched and drunk it down quickly. Elizabeth had sold out of all her books and had orders for twenty two more that she would autograph and ship. It had turned out to be a wonderful book signing.

Lucas paid Gustave and his crew to clean everything up and he took his family home. He ran a bath for his wife and let her soak, which seemed to calm and relax her while he got Jack to bed. Then returning to their room he massaged her feet, her back, her shoulders, and her neck before he gave her a passionate kiss. "That was a wonderful turn out sweetheart. Your hard work has finally paid off. I am so proud of you. I love you Elizabeth!"

"I love you too! I couldn't have made it without your support. You truly are my lifetime!" She turned over and they snuggled until they fell asleep.