Chapter 62 The Grand Reopening

The evening had finally come and all of Lucas's hard work was finally going to come to an end and his new family journey was getting ready to begin. He had spent the past several weeks training new staff and booking live entertainment for the grand reopening of the Queen of Hearts. He was excited for the town to see the new saloon. He had decided to book special shows for the main grand reopening which would be a three day weekend event. After that he would book shows with local talent from Hope Valley.

Through Lucas contacts he was able to secure top talent for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening. All shows would start at 7:00 pm. Top comedian Charlie Chaplin, famous dancer Arthur Murray, and singer Arthur Collins would be in the line up for the grand reopening of the Queen of Hearts. Lucas was excited because he knew live entertainment would pack the house. It always made him happy to see a packed full Queen of Hearts.

Besides the added seating on the balcony three of the other major changes were the stage, a more permanent movie screen, and the addition of a beautiful lighted pipe organ. Lucas wanted to bring his world travels to life and when he first saw a pipe organ he was instantly fascinated by its appeal. He had also included special lighting for the stage and a beautiful new chandelier that overhung the dining area.

The new saloon would add considerable cost to the operations of the facility. With the addition of the expanded menu was needed another chef which Gustave helped to choose. Gustave would be the head chef of course. Then there were the four new managers all who were well trained in keeping the books, making it easier for Lucas to let go of the reigns, at least partially. Two new bar tenders were added, four extra waitresses, and four part time security guards. The last position he filled was a talent scout to seek out and book talent for live events.

This was a special occasion and everyone dressed for it. Elizabeth wore the custom green dress Rosemary had made her. Lucas as always wore his dapper black suit with a green vest and tie to match Elizabeth's dress. Jack dressed to match Lucas. Julie had on a beautiful red dress and Gladys was wearing a long violet colored dress. Lucas had his own private table up front for his family and the Coulter's. They swung by the Coulter's to make sure they were ready and then all of them headed to the Queen of Hearts parking around back. It was wonderful to see the long line waiting to get into the Queen of Hearts.

Lucas opened the back door to escort his family and the Coulter's to their seats before going to cut the ribbon and open the main doors. All of them were completely mesmerized by the new and more prestigious saloon. The staff had been preparing all day so they were already anxious to get started. They were instantly greeted by the staff and immediately brought drinks and their orders taken.

"Lucas, you have completely outdone yourself. It is absolutely breathtaking in here." Elizabeth said with a warm smile while leaning over and kissing her husband.

"I was going for spectacular, but breathtaking will do just fine." He winked remembering their conversation about the lanterns a few years ago. "Shall we." He ushered her to cut the ribbon with him."

The Bouchard's made their way to the main door. Lucas opened the door to a huge crowd waiting. He made a short Grand Reopening speech and then they cut the ribbon and everyone filed into the Queen of Hearts. Lucas helped Elizabeth get seated and then spent an hour making sure everyone was satisfied and receiving great service. Elizabeth couldn't help following her husband with her eyes around the room as he worked his magic. He always had a way of distracting her.

It was time for the 7:00 pm. show and Lucas introduced the entertainment and hit the lights on the stage and dimmed the lights in the rest of the establishment making it just light enough for the staff to walk around and take orders. Elizabeth couldn't help the attraction she had for her husband being center stage, all eyes on him and she knew he was going home with her. She loved it. The place was packed and Lucas took his seat next to his wife and Jack wanted to sit on his lap.

The show was brilliant as Lucas knew it would be. The laughter that filled the room was a wonderful sign of great things to come. Lucas leaned over and rubbed his wife's stomach and whispered, "Darling are you okay?"

"I am wonderful sweetie." She responded covering his hands with hers.

"Can I get you anything?" He asked concern in his voice.

"I think a piece of chocolate cake will do just fine." She suggested with a teasing smile.

"Rosemary, Lee would you like anything?" Lucas asked before he headed to the kitchen.

"A pickle sounds wonderful!" Rosemary whispered with a giggle.

"I have a brand new jar in there just for you Rosemary." They laughed as Lucas walked away.

Lucas returned with a tray full of goodies for his family and the Coulter's. In the few months Gladys had been with them she had become part of their family and they were extremely happy in their choice.

When the evening was over, Lucas and Elizabeth stayed behind to close up as they kissed Jack goodbye and Lee took Julie, Jack, and Gladys home. The Bouchard's stood at the door shaking hands and wishing everyone a wonderful evening. They were quite pleased with all the kind remarks about the establishment and looking forward to many more evenings just like this one.

The last person filed out the door and Lucas locked up. Taking his wife in his arms he gave her a passionate kiss. "Thank you for sharing in this moment with me." He said adoringly. "I love you Mrs. Bouchard."

"There is no where else I would rather be and not as much as I love you Mr. Bouchard!" She said returning his kiss. They said goodnight to the staff and Lucas took his beautiful wife home where he could hold her in his arms and enjoy every moment of it.