Disclaimer: I don’t own the characters I write about. They belong to JER and NBC’s Passions.

Chapter One: The Preparations:

Luis looked around his house. He frowned when he noticed there was no sign of Christmas. But that was because he lived alone in his two-story brick house in Newark New Jersey. And he wasn’t planning on being home for the holiday. His home at least. He was going back to his family’s home in Harmony, a New England coastal town. He decided months ago that he would join the family’s festivities this year. He missed his brothers and sisters and they all promised to be home this year too. His parents had been to visit him just last month and he already missed them.

His trip was a bit complicated though. His fear of flying coupled with his lack of time off of work limited his options. He wanted to take the train the whole way there and back but that would cut too much into the family bonding time. So he opted to take the train to New York City then fly into Boston. From there it was a short drive to Harmony, so he had called ahead and rented a car. This limited his time in the air and he was relieved at that. All of his friends got a kick out of a grown man being scared of something as safe as flying. But it terrified him even if it was safer than driving a car.

Luis packed his briefcase, even though he promised he wouldn’t work this vacation, but it was inevitable. He always found a reason to work no matter the circumstances. His mother would chastise him for this but he honestly loved his work and couldn’t stay away. He finished packing his one bag and loaded it in the car. He whistled as he made his way to the train station.

Sheridan Crane ran around her apartment trying to pack. Just five minutes ago she decided to go home for the holidays. She really didn’t want to go. She hadn’t talked to her family in years, but her nephew’s wife was expecting. She decided to go offer her congratulations. She wasn’t looking forward to the lectures she was sure to receive from her father about the way she ran her life, but she had heard it all before. She learned how to tune him out now.

She called her travel agent only to find that all the flights from Newark to Boston were booked. She was going to have to take the train to New York City and then take an express plane from New York to Boston. She would rent a car when she got to Boston and drive the rest of the way to her family’s estate in Harmony.

Reluctantly she placed her suitcase in her trunk and started her car. It had snowed yesterday and it still covered her car. She put on her hat and mittens and brushed it off as the car warmed up. Finally, after every last snowflake was cleared, she got in her car. She drove the speed limit the whole way. Maybe she would miss her train. She would be heartbroken for sure.

Chapter Two: The Train:

Sheridan found her seat and shoved her bag in the compartment above her seat. She luckily remembered to pack a book and took it with her as she sat in her window seat. Hopefully the seat next to it would pass some time she could stare at the passing cities. Even though she took her time getting here she was one of the first to take her seat. If she was lucky the seat next to hers would remain empty but knowing her luck that wouldn’t happen. Then she saw him. All that passed through her mind at that moment was ‘yummy.’ Tall, dark and handsome did not do this man justice. Their eyes connected and he gave her a small smile. She blushed when she realized she’d been staring. Now Sheridan sat silently praying that this God would sit next to her. From her lips to God’s ears. He stowed his bag above her and took the empty seat.

"Hello" he extended his hand. "My name is Luis"

"Hi Luis. I’m Sheridan"

"It’s nice to meet you"

"The pleasure’s all mine" her eyes sparkled.

They stared into each other’s eyes not saying another word. Their hands remained connected sending jolts of electricity between them. Neither one of them was sure what was going on between them but they didn’t want it to stop either. They were searching each other’s souls and what they were finding was there was a deep connection. They didn’t even notice the old lady walk up to them nor did they notice when she started talking to them. Finally she tugged at Luis’s arm to get his attention.

"Excuse me sir, I think you’re in my seat" she explained holding up her ticket.

"So I am. I’m sorry m’am" he got up and helped her into her seat. "It was very nice to meet you Sheridan" he flashed her a killer smile.

"Likewise Luis"

Luis found his real seat and buckled in. He struggled to keep his emotions in check. He had just met the single most beautiful person in the world. He didn’t know why but he was drawn to her and they barely exchanged a word. The train started to move and he couldn’t help but to glance in her direction. She was two rows forward and on the other side of the train from him. She was in the perfect spot for his gaze to remain fixed on her. He couldn’t tear his eyes away. That is until she turned around and caught him. Luis turned to look out his window but Sheridan knew he was watching her. Not only were his cheeks a bit pink but she could feel his stare burning a hole in her. It caused the hair on the back of her neck to rise and that is why she turned around. The train chugged along down its tracks and Luis returned his gaze to the vixen in front of him. He watched as she excused herself and rose from her seat. Then instead of heading towards the bathroom like her figured she would she walked towards him.

"Is this seat taken?" She didn’t wait for an answer before she took the seat next to him. "So you found your seat huh? Were you lost earlier?" she teased.

"Yes, I found my seat thank you" he smiled. "And yes I was lost"

"Oh really?" she was intrigued.

"Yep as soon as I looked into your eyes and I was lost" he blushed he couldn’t believe his creativity.

"That’s a new one" she didn’t know why but she loved to get at this man. She knew it was silly, she just met him.

"I can see you’re a hard one to win over"

‘If you only knew’ Sheridan thought to herself.

"So Luis, tell me about yourself"

"What do you want to know?" he questioned.

"Where do you live? Where are you going? What do you do for a living? You’re last name?"

"Ok, ok" he laughed. "Inquisitive aren’t you?"

"Only about you" she instantly covered her mouth with her hand. She couldn’t believe she said that out loud.

"Well now, I guess you aren’t so hard to win over" he gave her a cocky grin.

"Answer the questions"

"I live in Newark. I’m going to my parents house for the holiday. And I’m a district attorney"

"And?" she still wanted her last question answered.

"Oh right. Lopez-Fitzgerald"

"That’s a mouthful" she teased.

"And what’s your last name? Smith?"

"NOOO! It’s Crane actually"

"You have a beautiful name Sheridan Crane" he loved how that rolled off his tongue. "But it isn’t half as beautiful as you are"

"You’re quite the line deliverer"

"I’m sorry"

"I didn’t say I minded" she blushed for like the hundredth time since she met this man.

The powers that be took over and their hands were drawn closer. Their fingers intertwined. The shot of electricity that passed between them when their hands joined was amazing. Sheridan tried to pull her hand back for fear it was going to burn but Luis squeezed it to his and she relented.

"You’ve probably lived in Newark for awhile huh?" she asked finding it hard to concentrate as he rubbed his thumb over hers.

"Seven years"

"I just moved here this school year"

"Are you a teacher?"

"Yes 2^nd grade"

"It must be nice to have to summer off"

"Well after dealing with 20 rowdy 7 years olds for nine months I think I’ve earned it" she joked.

"Beautiful and a sense of humor. I think I’m in love"

The train slowed and pulled into the station in New York City. They had agreed to get together when they returned to Newark. The exchanged phone numbers and reluctantly released their hands. Then they retrieved their bags.

"Bye Sheridan"

"Goodbye Luis"

And they went their separate ways.

Chapter Three: The Plane:

Luis got into a cab right away. Even though his thoughts were consumed of one blonde beauty he still couldn’t wait to get home. But now his reasons had changed. Now he wanted to be home so he could talk to his brothers about the woman who so quickly had stolen his heart. His sister Theresa had always talked about fate and love at first sight, but he never believed her until now. He would gladly admit he was wrong if it meant Sheridan would be in his life for the rest of eternity. He arrived at the airport and promptly checked in. He headed towards his gate stopping for a cup of coffee on his way.

Sheridan slowly made her way off the train. Now not only did she not want to go to her parent’s estate and back in Newark but she always couldn’t keep her mind off him. Luis had invaded her thoughts, every single one of them. How was she going to fend herself from her father when she had her head in the clouds. Well at least they would like him. He is a district attorney. Hell, they would probably like him more than her. She finally hailed a cab and was off to the airport. After arguing with the person behind the counter about getting a window seat for about five minutes she gave up and took an isle seat. She headed towards her gate with about ten minutes before her plane should board. She stopped at a newsstand and picked up a magazine.

Even though Sheridan knew she shouldn’t be reading and walking at the same time in the busy terminal she was intrigued by one of the articles. How To Tell If He Is Mr. Right. Okay so it was a puff piece on unimportant issues but after her earlier meeting with Luis she couldn’t resist. Luis stepped out of the coffee shop and noticed the top to his coffee was not properly secured. He stopped in his tracks, set down his briefcase, and made sure the top to his cup was now on correctly. Sheridan continued down the terminal not paying attention to where she was going. And then * bang * they collided.

"Oh, I’m sorry" Sheridan offered still not looking up from her magazine.

"It’s ok" Luis replied as he bent down to pick up his briefcase. "No harm …" They both looked at each other at the same time.

"Luis" Sheridan squealed and then immediately tried to calm herself.

"Sheridan what are you doing here?" Luis asked elated to see her.

"What do you think I am doing here?" She teased. "I am here to get on an airplane"

"Such a comic" he noticed her magazine. "What had you so mesmerized you weren’t watching where you were going? Not that I mind at all that you bumped into me"

"Oh nothing" she hid it behind her back. "Where are you going?"

"Boston"

"Me too. Which flight?"

"1264, you’re going to Boston too?"

"Yep and you are on my flight" she beamed.

"You’re flight huh? Come on we better get to our gate"

"What’s the hurry Luis? We still have plenty of time"

"Not if I want to change my seat so I can sit next to you"

Luis arranged it so for the duration of the flight they would be seated together. He also worked it out so Sheridan could have her window seat. He sure didn’t want it. He didn’t want to see how high up they were. They boarded the plane and found their seats. Sheridan got in first, followed by Luis. He immediately sat down and fastened his seatbelt. He then began to clutch the armrests.

"Is something wrong Luis?" Sheridan asked as she fastened her seatbelt.

"I don’t like to fly" he said quickly and sharply.

"Don’t like?"

"Ok, so I am afraid of flying" he admitted.

"You afraid?"

"You find that funny?" he said a bit hurt by her statement.

"Not at all. I’m just surprised. I wouldn’t think you to be afraid of anything. What scares you the most?"

"Taking off, landing, and turbulence"

"Well you’re in luck. It just so happens that I know how to fly a plane"

"Really?"

"Yes really. I learned while I was in college. But anyway I can tell you exactly what is going on the whole time and you don’t have to be afraid. I bet you are afraid because you don’t know what is happening. That is enough to scare anyone"

The plane jerked and started to barrel down the runway. Luis again clutched the armrests. Sheridan pried one off his hands off and placed it in hers. He suddenly seemed to calm. She explained everything as they began to rise off of the ground. He hung on her every word and he didn’t even realize when they leveled off and the fasten seatbelt light was no longer illuminated.

"There you see now that wasn’t so bad was it?"

"Not at all. I was too caught up in what you were saying I forgot all about the plane crashing"

"Luis nothing is going to happen to us. Flying is safer than…"

"Driving I know" he finished her sentence. "How about we talk about something else"

"Sure" she smiled. "Do you have a big family?"

"For this day and age yes. I have two brothers and two sisters"

"And let me guess you are the baby of the family"

"What makes you say that?"

"You seem like your used to getting your way" she noticed his puzzled look and continued. "You got to sit next to me didn’t you?"

"Yes I did" he smiled when he realized she was just playing with his head. "But no I am not. Antonio is older than I am and then Theresa, Miguel, and Paloma are all younger"

"Wow. And I am betting your parents are still together"

"Yep and still as in love as the day they got married over 33 years ago"

"That’s amazing" Sheridan thought of her own family and was amazed by the happiness danced in Luis’s eyes when he talked about his family.

"What about you?" Luis noticed as soon as he asked she cast her head downward. "Look you don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to"

"It’s not that. It just isn’t a happy story like yours"

"If it’s all the same to you I would still like to know" he placed his finger under her chin and raised it so their eyes could meet. Right then she could tell this man cared for her more than she had been before.

"Well first there are my parents. My father is a wealthy businessman who constantly ridicules me about not being more than just a teacher. He has also had endless affair with anything with a pulse. My mother is an alcoholic but to her defense she is recovering and doing better each day. But my brother Julian is following in both of their footsteps, an adulterer and a drunk. His wife Ivy is in love with another man, but Cranes do NOT get divorces. But there is a good side to my family. My nephew Ethan, who is only two years younger than I am, and his wife Gwen are expecting their first child. Ethan is a lawyer like you"

"You really seem to care about your nephew"

"He was more like my brother than Julian ever was. But tell me more about your family. I can tell you love them very much and that would give me hope that the perfect family does exist"

"I hate to burst your bubble Sheridan, but it doesn’t. We have our share of problems. But we are relatively normal"

"Tell me" she urged.

"Well my parents are both hard workers. My father owns the local florist shop and my mother helps him run it. They also own two restaurants but have hired people to run those. My brother Antonio is the head chef at on of the restaurants and he and his girlfriend Monica were engaged in the fall. Then there is Theresa. She has a knack for fashion. She is in her first year of the fashion institute in New York. Miguel and Paloma are still in high school and both excel in sports"

After Luis finished telling her about his family he glanced over to see her head resting on his shoulder. He wasn’t sure when she put it there but he wasn’t going to move her either. She had fallen asleep dreaming of having a perfect family like Luis’s. No matter what he said it was perfect to her. He leaned his head against hers and joined her in slumber. They didn’t realize it but they slept the rest of the pane ride. The plane emptied without them noticing a thing. A flight attendant had to come and wake them. When they awoke they found themselves no longer just resting heads together and holding hands but now the armrest had been pushed up and she was snuggled in his chest. He had his arm around her linking his in hers around her waist. They smiled at each other as the rose from their seats trying to hurry off the plane so they didn’t hold the pilots up. They walked to get their luggage together.

"I’ve never slept so soundly in my life" she admitted.

"Me either. I didn’t even feel us land. Will you fly with me every time?"

"I’ll be there when ever you need me"

They each got their one bag and now it was time for goodbyes again. They again promised to meet after Christmas. The day after in fact. They had made definite plans instead of just saying they would call each other. This time they hugged before they parted ways.

Chapter Four: The Automobile:

Both Sheridan and Luis continued their journeys to their families. Luis had already waiting in line and received the key to his rental car. He was now on the phone telling his mother that he should be home within a couple of hours. She was excited that her whole family would be here for the first time in five years. He smiled knowing that he could make his mother that happy. She had done so much him. He was glad he could do this for her. He gathered his things and was about to head out to his car but then he saw Sheridan up at the rental counter. Well heard Sheridan was more of the truth.

"What do you mean you don’t have anymore cars?" she yelled.

"I’m sorry Miss you should have called ahead" the receptionist tried to explain.

"I would have called ahead had I decided to come here before today" she said highly irritated.

"I’m can’t help you. Next" she looked past Sheridan.

"No you are going to find me a car first" Sheridan demanded. "I need to get to Harmony"

Luis walked up to the counter and placed his hand on the small of Sheridan’s back, instantly calming here.

"Did I hear the lovely lady needed a ride to Harmony" Luis flashed her a smile while he waved the key in front of her face.

"Luis? Are you going near Harmony"

"To Harmony actually. That is where my family is. You know if we discussed this earlier we could have avoided this" he nodded towards the receptionist.

"Right. I’m sorry for my behavior" Sheridan apologized. "The holidays just have me a bit frazzled" the lady nodded and then helped the next customer. "Thank you Luis. I think. I was almost glad I wasn’t going to get to go home, but now I get to spend more time with you so it isn’t so bad after all"

Luis took Sheridan’s bag for her after much protest and they found their car. He placed the luggage in the trunk. Then he walked over and opened her door for her. She almost jumped into his arms and kissed him right there for being such a gentleman, but she managed to contain herself. Then they took off for their journey home.

"Have your parents always lived in Harmony?" Luis asked as he got onto the freeway.

"Yes, since before I was born. They house has been in our family for generations"

"I don’t remember you in high school and believe me I would have remembered"

"Cute. I didn’t go to school in Harmony. I was sent to Paris as soon as I started kindergarten"

"Wait are you one of THEE Cranes?"

"Guilty" she admitted and closed her eyes so she couldn’t see his reaction.

"Big Al’s daughter huh? You look nothing like him"

"You’ve met him?"

"A couple of times actually. He frequents the family restaurants often. He’s a good tipper" he looked over at her and smiled. He figured that she was scared he would hate him now. Most people did, but he had never done anything to him or his family so he had no reason too. He saw her sigh when he answered.

"So how long have you been a district attorney?" she asked quickly changing the subject.

"A month"

"Really? Congratulations"

"Thank you"

"What did you do before that?"

"I was a cop"

"A cop? I’m glad you are out of that business. I couldn’t bare it if you got hurt"

"I was actually a cop because I needed to pay my way through school. The law enforcement though it what helped me land my position. They like to see that you know all sides of the judicial system. But I can’t say I wasn’t ever hurt"

Luis lifted his black sweater to show a gunshot wound on the lower right side of his abdomen. Sheridan reached out her hand and ran her fingers over the scar. This caused him to shiver and he dropped the sweater in shock. Sheridan pulled her hand away quickly because she thought she did something wrong.

"I’m sorry" she turned to look out the window.

"Don’t be. It umm…"

"Sent a shockwave through your body and it scared the hell out of you?"

"Yeah" he almost groaned as he relived the feeling.

"Luis, what exactly is going on between us?" she finally got the guts to ask.

"I’m not sure" he admitted. "But I really like it"

"So do I" she smiled and then bent over and kissed him lightly on the cheek causing him to smile triumphantly. He opened his hand and she gladly accepted it.

Before they knew it they had made it to Harmony. They wished they had more time to spend together but they would only be apart for two days. Tonight was Christmas Eve, then Christmas, and then they would meet again back in Newark. But it didn’t make the parting easier for either of them. Luis pulled into the Crane Estate and Sheridan directed him to her cottage.

"You aren’t staying in the main house?" he questioned.

"No one knows I am coming. I thought I would surprise them tomorrow"

"What are you going to do tonight?" he asked sad that she would be alone tonight.

"What old Christmas movies on TV. It is what I would be doing if I was home" she admitted. "And this is where I stay whenever I come home. I feel suffocated by my father and brother if I stay up there"

"I’m sorry"

"Don’t be Luis. This is the only life I know. I’m used to it by now" they got out of the car and walked to her door. "Thank you for the ride"

"You’re welcome" his feet seemed to be glued to the spot next to hers. "I don’t want to leave" he said nervously.

"Really you don’t have to worry about me"

"That’s not why I don’t want to leave"

"Then why?" she asked curiously.

"This is why?"

He bent down and captured her lips in a slow sweet kiss. It was gentle and full of emotions. It had contained promises of what was yet to come.

"That was" she struggled to find the right words. "Amazing"

"I couldn’t have said it better myself" he pulled her into a bear hug. "Merry Christmas Sheridan"

"Merry Christmas Luis" she said as she snuggled her head closer into his shoulder.

"I’ll call you Tuesday"

"I’ll wait by the phone"

"Goodnight"

"Night"

He kissed her on the cheek and then made his way back to the rental car. He didn’t want to leave, especially because she would be alone, but his family awaiting him and boy was he going to have a story to tell them. She waved as she entered her cottage and he drove away.

Chapter Five: The Visit:

Luis drove up to his house and peered through the windows. He could see people flying past them. Everything was already started. He figured he would be walking into the party and there was the proof. Miguel was chasing Paloma around the house trying to get star for the tree away from her. Luis laughed, some things never changed. He grabbed his bag from the trunk and headed to the door. He thought about knocking but no one would hear him and this was his childhood home. He walked in unnoticed and hung his coat. He placed his bag in the corner. It was Theresa who caught a glimpse of him first.

"Luis!" she squealed as she ran into his arms.

"Hey Kiddo" he nuzzled her head.

He was then suddenly surrounded by the rest of his family. He said his hellos to everyone. He then settled at the kitchen table with his father, older brother Antonio, and his finance Monica. They were enjoying eggnog and discussing the upcoming wedding. It was to be in March.

"So little brother when are we going to be talking about your wedding?"

"Subtle Toni" Monica mused. "I am going to leave you men to your guy talk" she smiled and joined the women and Miguel in the other room.

"She’s terrific" Luis commented as Monica left the room.

"She’s the best" Antonio said dreamily. "But now back to you. There is something different about you tonight"

"Who is she?" Martin entered the conversation.

"Who is who?" Luis feigned innocence.

"The one who is keeping your head in the clouds" Martin snickered.

"Luis, you have walked into so many things tonight we should bubble wrap you" Antonio teased. "So who is she?"

"Sheridan Crane" he said as he stared off into space.

"As in Alistair Crane’s daughter?" Antonio nearly chocked on his eggnog.

"How did you meet her?" Marin inquired.

Luis went on to tell them of his and Sheridan’s adventures of the day. Martin watched his son intently as he told the story and as soon as Luis said Sheridan’s name he knew Luis had found his soul mate. Antonio just laughed cause Luis had always been a firm protester of love at first site and now he was submitting to it completely. He knew Luis had met his match in this woman. As Luis finished his story both other men saw him grow sad. They had parted on good terms so why would he be sad? Monica came back in the room and stole Antonio away for a moment, leaving father to talk to son.

"What’s wrong Luis? You look trouble" Martin commented.

"It’s Sheridan"

"I thought you said everything was looking good"

"It is. Very good. But she is all alone tonight. No one even knows she is town"

"Didn’t she come to see her family?"

"Yes but they aren’t close like we are. She didn’t want to come at all, but her nephew’s wife is expecting. She is sitting in her cottage alone, watching Christmas movies"

"No one should be alone on the holiday" Martin commented hoping Luis would catch his drift. He wanted to meet the woman who had him under this spell.

"Exactly" Luis shoved his head in his hands.

"What are you still doing here?" Luis looked up at him with questioning eyes. "Go get her already"

"Really? I thought this was a family night" Luis said his eyes filled with hope.

"Well by the looks of you this girl is going to be family sooner or later. Plus Miguel is going to get his girlfriend and bring her over later too"

"Thanks papa. I’ll be back soon"

Luis raced out of the house without grabbing his coat. Luckily his keys were in his pocket and he raced to the other side of town. Sheridan sat in sweats and a tank curled on the sofa. She had a blanket thrown over her legs. She was watching A Miracle On 34^th Street. There was a frantic on the door and it caused her to jump up. She walked to the door slowly wondering who it could be. No one knew she was here. She had the lights off. The room was illuminated by the television screen.

"Sheridan, are you awake? It’s Luis" he figured she would wonder who would be knocking at her door tonight. She had to stop herself from running to the door. But she got there quickly and promptly opened the door.

"Hi Luis" she smiled. "Come in"

"I’ll make this quick. Go get dressed" he smiled.

"Excuse me? That one is new. A man propositioning me by asking me to get dressed? You are creative" she giggled.

"Look" he took her hands in his and led her to the sofa. "I couldn’t stand the thought of you being here alone tonight. So I came to bring you back to the party with me"

"Luis I told you not to feel bad for me"

"Ok how about this reason. I want you with me. I hate being away from you" he smiled.

"I like that reason"

She leaned over and they shared another kiss. Only this one was full of fire and urgent. It was like they couldn’t get enough of each other. Each kiss just made them hungrier for the next. Finally they broke apart.

"I didn’t come over for that" Sheridan smiled seductively at him as he explained himself. But he was struggling to remember cause his heart was racing. The look she was giving him was torture. "I want you to come see how a family can be. Please say you’ll come home with me"

"Luis I don’t know. Isn’t it a little early to be meeting your family"

"Look, you’re my friend"

"I hoped I was more that your friend" she interrupted giving him that look again.

"Oh you are sweetheart, you are. But you need to stop giving me that look or I won’t get back to the party tonight. So will you come? No strings or obligations attached. Just a family having a good time together"

"You really want me there? You just aren’t trying to pity me?"

"More than anything I want you to be there. To be near me all night"

"Then I’ll come" she relented. She wanted to be with him too.

Sheridan quickly changed her clothes into something more festive. A long black skirt and red sweater with white snowflakes lining the front would have to do. She walked back out to where Luis was waiting and as soon as he saw her his breath caught in his throat. He definitely could get used to this.

"You look beautiful" he told her as she neared him. "Come here so I can kiss you"

"You are becoming more forward by the second. I like it"

They let their bodies become one and they tangled themselves into another kiss. Luis started walking backwards towards the door and Sheridan followed, lips still locked together. She freed one of her hands long enough to grab her coat and then they were out the door and off to the Christmas Eve festivities.

Chapter Six: The Christmas Eve Party:

Luis and Sheridan had arrived at the Lopez-Fitzgerald house without a problem. Well much of a problem that is. There had been the incident at the stoplight where they had been to involved in other things to realize the light had turned green three times and they would have been there longer had another car not come along and honked at them. They not remained firmly planted on the steps of Luis’s front porch. As soon as Sheridan saw the door she freaked.

"What if I do something wrong? I don’t know how to act around a real family" Sheridan spat out.

"Sheridan, just be yourself and you’ll be fine"

"How can you say that? You hardly know me"

"I know enough to know I like what I see. You are smart, funny, caring and not to mention drop dead gorgeous" he kissed each of her cheeks, then her nose, and the lightly on the lips. "Now come inside and I promise you will have a great time"

"I think I need a little more convincing first" she smiled seductively and suddenly going inside didn’t seem so important.

Inside the house Pilar walked along the entryway looking for her purse. She had left a card for the family in it and she wanted to show it to Martin. As she passed the porch she noticed people on the porch and they seemed be enjoying themselves. At first glance she figured it was Antonio and Monica but she had just passed them on the couch. This caused her to do a double take and run to press her nose on the window. Then she discovered it was Luis, not Antonio, and the woman was definitely not Monica. She had short blonde hair instead of Monica dark flowing hair. Her curiosity peaked when they pulled apart for a brief moment and she saw her son’s face. The affection he held for this woman in his eyes was undeniable. Pilar was so caught up in her spy mission that she didn’t notice Martin come behind her and wrap his hands around her waist.

"What has captured your interest this evening darling?" Martin asked as he kissed her on the cheek.

"That?" Pilar pointed out the window.

"That must be Sheridan"

"You knew about this?" Pilar accused as she whirled around in his arms.

"Kind of" he admitted. "Luis told me before he went to get her"

"Details please"

"He met her this morning on the train"

"He met her…this morning…and they are already like that? Must be love at first site" she mused.

"We should leave them to their privacy"

"But I want to meet the woman who has stolen Luis’s heart so quickly" Pilar whined.

"I’m sure he will bring her in sooner or later. He doesn’t have a jacket and no matter how much electricity is shooting between them he will get cold. And it is starting to snow"

But before Pilar and Martin could get away from the window Sheridan opened her eyes and saw them.

"Luis" she tried to pull away from him but he brought her back to him. "LUIS"

"Huh?" he asked still stargazing into her eyes.

"We have an audience" she pointed to the window.

"We should go in now"

"Okay" she relented and Luis led her through the door.

Sheridan met his whole family and was beginning to become more at ease. They were now all gathered in the living room. They took turns telling stories about the past year. The lights were dim and there was a fire roaring in front of them. They each had a mug of hot chocolate and we intently listening to each person. Martin was the last to recount the exciting news of his last year and he had just finished. Pilar quickly disappeared into the kitchen and came back with wire poles and a bag of marshmallows. The family gathered closer to the fire and sat on the floor in front of it. Sheridan was about to sit down on the floor next to Luis, but he pulled her onto his lap. She was amazed as his forwardness in front of his parents. But then again in his arms was someplace she could get used to being. She was handed a wire and took it graciously but had no idea what to do with it now.

"Luis?" she whispered.

"Yeah" he handed her a marshmallow.

"I don’t know what to do" she kept her voice low.

"About what?" Sheridan tried to drawn his attention to the wire in her hand but he thought this was a serious subject.

"I’ve never roasted a marshmallow" she finally admitted sheepishly.

"Never?" she shook her head no. "Ever?"

"NO" she said a little too loudly and now the whole family was looking her. They just laughed though. They had heard the whole conversation in the first place.

The night was a complete success. By the end of the night Sheridan fit right in. At the beginning of the night she was glued to Luis but by the end she was engaging in conversations with his mother and siblings while he was in another room. She actually felt like she fit into a family for the first time. It was an unexplainable feeling. Luis was impressed on how easily she adjusted. He didn’t want to take her home. He wanted to hold her in his arms for the rest of the night. But he had the couch and even though he they could make it work it was probably taking things a little fast. He noticed her yawning every so often and knew she was tired. She was fighting well, obviously having a good time, but it was time to take her home. The whole family urged her to come back soon. Pilar even hugged her as they left. Luis helped her on with her coat and Luis remembered to take his this time and they were out the door.

"Thank you for that Luis. I will remember it for the rest of my life"

"It was nothing" he smiled. "Merry Christmas"

"Merry Christmas"

"Sheridan I know you probably are going to spend the day with your family tomorrow doing whatever you seem to dread, but I would like to see you sometime. Even if it is only for a couple of minutes"

"Don’t you have plans with your family?"

"Of coarse. We wake up incredibly early, exchange gifts and then have brunch. Then one of our family friends has a Christmas party and we join them. I don’t need to be at the party that long. No one will ever notice I am gone"

"I would love to see you Luis, but I only have tomorrow to catch up with Ethan" she said sadly.

"I understand. I guess I will just have to wait then"

"Wait Luis. My family has dinner at around 8 pm every Christmas. You can join us if you like. It will be my own personal hell but it would be nice to have you there"

"It can’t be that bad Sheridan"

"Then you’ll come?"

"Why not" he gave her that smile that made her weak in the knees.

They made it to the cottage and again Luis walked Sheridan to her door. He refused her invitation to come in because he knew he would never be able to leave. He kept reminding himself that he would see her tomorrow.

"Goodnight Sheridan" Luis gave her a final kiss on the forehead. "I’ll see you tomorrow"

"Now don’t say I didn’t warn you when you meet my family" she smiled hoping that with him present things wouldn’t be as harsh.

"I’m sure you’re exaggerating" he chuckled as he made his way to his car.

"We’ll see. Goodnight Luis" she blew him a kiss before entering the cottage.

Chapter Seven: The Mistletoe:

Sheridan woke up in the morning with a smile on her face. She had being the night away. And every dream contained one man in particular. She sighed his name as she got out of bed and threw on her robe. She looked at her clock it was already ten o’clock. She never slept this late but her subconscious obviously liked her dreams. The first conscious thought that passed through her mind was if she called him would she be interrupting anything? She wanted to hear his voice, even if it was just to say hello. She decided against it though. She didn’t want to scare him away. She didn’t want to risk not seeing him again. She picked out her outfit for the day, a long black dress and a black sweater to go over it. Was she going to celebrate Christmas or go to a funeral? She laughed and picked out something with more color. She didn’t want Luis to think she was scrooge or anything. She found a festive green turtleneck sweaters and black pants. She would have preferred jeans but that would have been taboo. Sheridan quickly showered and dressed. She wanted to get over to the house and spend time with Ethan. The phone rang just as she was about to open the door. She ran over and picked it up.

 "Hello?"

"Hey beautiful"

"Luis" she had a smile plastered on her face.

"I just wanted to call and say Merry Christmas" why hadn’t she thought of that?

"You said that last night" she caught him.

"So I just wanted to see how you were. Is that so wrong?"

"Not at all. I was going to call you earlier, but I didn’t want to interrupt"

"You would have been a welcome interruption. Call me anytime. I mean it"

"Thank you" she replied shyly.

"Brunch is about to start I better go. Have a nice time with your family"

"You’re still coming tonight right?"

"I wouldn’t miss it"

"Merry Christmas Luis"

 Sheridan hung up the phone and then had to keep herself from skipping to the mansion. She didn’t want to knock. It would ruin the surprise. She waltzed in to find her entire family gathered in the sitting room enjoying coffee.

 "Is there room for one more?" she announced as she entered the room.

"Aunt Sheridan" Ethan said, voice full of excitement, as he ran to her and gave her a hug.

"What are you doing here Sheridan" Alistair asked.

"Well it is good to see you too father" she joked as her mother and Ivy hugged her too. Gwen would have but obviously Sheridan had been misinformed about how far along she was. She thought it was a new thing but Gwen looked ready to pop. She walked over to Gwen to hug her once she was free from everyone else. She didn’t bother to offer her affection to her father or brother for she knew it would be rejected.

"What made you decided to join us this year dear?" her mother asked as she handed her some coffee.

"Fate" she said under her breath.

"What?" a chorus of people asked none of them hearing her.

"I just thought I would surprise all of you"

"It wasn’t necessary" Alistair said not even to bother to peak his head over his newspaper.

"I can see things around here never change" she said curtly. "Actually I came to see Ethan and Gwen. Seeing as no one else would care if I am here or not"

"That is not true sweetie" her mother interjected.

"Thank you mother. Ethan what do you have planned for the day?"

"Gwen and I were just going to watch movies and rest until dinner tonight"

"As you can see I don’t exactly travel well right now" Gwen joked. "But you are more than welcome to join us"

"I would love to"

Sheridan, Ethan, and Gwen spent more of the day chatting than watching movies. Sheridan found out that Gwen was so big because she was expecting triplets, all girls. Boy was Ethan in for trouble. Sheridan told them about her day with Luis and that he was coming tonight. They were both shocked. Out of all the men she had ever dated she never brought one of them home. She was always embarrassed of her family. And she had only known this man for one day meant that he had to be something really special. Ethan knew that the man he met tonight was going to be his uncle in the future if everything worked out right. He just hoped Luis was strong enough to handle the attacks that were sure to be made on him. But more importantly how would he react to the attacks that were launched on Sheridan. Only time would tell. The day passed by quickly and it was getting closer to dinner time. Sheridan became a ball of mixed emotions as the time drew nearer. She wanted to see Luis but she dreaded the dinner with her family. Maybe they could just sneak off. But she didn’t want to disappoint Ethan or her mother. She had told Luis to meet her at her cottage so they could go to the mansion together. She waited for him rather impatiently. At seven thirty her doorbell finally rang. She flung the door open and threw her arms around him. She kissed him with all the passion her soul possessed. She left him standing dumbstruck in the doorway.

"No offence Luis but that is the last kiss you are going to get tonight. We have to be on our best behavior up there" Sheridan announced.

"So what is allowed?" he questioned not wanting to hear her answer but he knew she was scared of her family for some reason and he would do anything for her.

"As far as everyone but Ethan and Gwen they all think you are just a friend from Newark. But don’t get the wrong impression. I am not ashamed of you, I am of them. I don’t want to give them any extra ammunition"

"Why are you so scared of them?" he asked.

"You’ll see. Trust me" she assured him.

They walked up the path to the main house. A maid took their coats as they walked in. They stood in the foyer for a moment. Sheridan wanting the extra moment to prepare herself for what was to come. Luis looked around. The place was enormous. Something caught his eye as he looked around. Suddenly Sheridan found herself being pulled into a soft and sweet kiss. The way his lips brushed against her was magical. She pushed him away and gave him a look he hadn’t seen before. She was angry. He didn’t do anything but point above them. There hung mistletoe in all its glory.

"I’m a sucker for tradition" he shrugged. "And I had to have one more. I promise I will be good now"

"How can I be mad at you for that?" his sweetness towards her made her melt. "Are you ready?"

"I think the real question is are you?"

Luis gave her a quick squeeze of the shoulders and then she led him to the dining room. She said a silent prayer hoping things would pass by smoothly. But that would take a Christmas miracle.

Chapter Eight: The Dinner:

Sheridan and Luis walked into the enormous dining room to find the entire family sitting there waiting for them. Luis noticed their faces, while there were smiles, there were also a few disgruntled faces. He wanted to pull Sheridan into his arms and protect her, but he knew she feared that would only cause more problems. They walked to the empty chairs and Luis held hers out. She looked up and smiled sweetly at him. He was always so caring. She hoped he would always treat her this way. He took his seat next to her.

"You’re late" was the first words her father said.

"I’m sorry father" she said as she looked down at her hands.

"You know better" he scolded.

"Sheridan, why don’t you introduce us to your friend" Ethan intervened.

"Right" Sheridan breathed a sigh of relief. "Everyone, this is Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald. Luis this is my father Alistair, mother Katherine, brother Julian, and his wife Ivy, my nephew Ethan and his wife Gwen" she said as she went around the table.

"What do you do Luis?" Julian said as he sipped on his brandy. Leave it to Julian to ask how much money he made first.

"I’m a district attorney"

"In Newark, I assume" Julian continued the conversation.

"Yes"

"And where did you matriculate from?" Alistair entered the conversation determined to take Luis down a few pegs.

"I graduated from Boston College actually" Luis said triumphantly.

"Law School I assume" the maid started to serve soap.

"Yes" Luis said not wanting to hear the next question.

"And where did you go to college?" Alistair continued to probe.

"I went to a local community college actually. I worked as a cop to put myself through school" he said proudly.

"What a shame they let such common people run the attorneys office these days" Alistair said happily. Sheridan mouthed I’m sorry.

The dinner progressed rather uneventfully. During the meals the conversation split in two. Alistair, Julian, Katherine and Ivy talked about business and social issues while Luis, Sheridan, Ethan and Gwen chatted about baby names and other everyday things. That was until dessert was served. Then Alistair and Julian took it upon themselves to rip into Sheridan’s choice of career and lack of proper social life.

"So Sheridan how is that daycare thing going?" Julian dug in.

"I’m a teacher Julian" Sheridan snapped.

"Oh right, a teacher" Julian corrected.

"It doesn’t matter anyway" Alistair interrupted. "You’ll have to give it up when we find an acceptable suitor for you"

"I will do nothing of the sort" Sheridan protested.

"I will not have my daughter talking back to me in my own house" Alistair barked.

"I’m sorry father" she replied losing her courage. Luis put his hand on her leg making sure no one could see. He hated seeing Sheridan like this.

"Oh before I forget, you are to stay until New Years. I have a couple of beaux I want you to meet"

"I can’t. I have to go home and…"

"What?" He said as he flashed her an intimidating look.

"Okay" she gave in.

Suddenly she remembered her date with Luis on Tuesday and she became over come with emotion. She hated the way her family controlled her life. She hated being their puppet. And most of all she hated giving up her date with Luis. She couldn’t stop the tears from forming and she had to get out there before her father saw how weak she was. She excused herself from the table and ran from the room. Luis had had it. No one deserved to be treated like this, especially Sheridan. She deserved the best. And he was sick of sitting there and being quiet.

"You heartless son of bitch. She is your daughter" Luis yelled as he stood and threw his napkin on the table.

"Who do you think you are son? Sit down" Alistair commanded.

"I will not. She does a great thing teaching children. The kids she influences will turn into people more important you will ever be! And as for whom she chooses as her beau, that is her choice to make not yours" Luis huffed.

"You’re sorely mistaken. She will do exactly what I say. And I don’t know exactly what your relationship with my daughter is but I can assure you she will not choose you. She is just using you for fun in the sack"

"How dare you talk of your daughter’s virtues that way. And as for our relationship that is none of your business. Now if you will excuse me, I actually care about the wonderful woman in the other room. She is the most amazing person I have ever met and I can’t believe you can disregard her so easily"

Luis pushed his chair to the floor as he went in search of Sheridan. He didn’t have to look far, she was on the steps right outside the door. Tears stained her face but she looked quite calm now. He wanted to run to her and throw his arms around her but he didn’t know if it would be welcomed. He walked to the stairs and sat next to her.

"Hey" he said as he rubbed her back. It was all he dared to say.

"Hey" she said back. "Thank you for that"

"You heard?"

"Every word. You weren’t exactly quiet" she mused. "No one has ever done anything like that for me"

"I only wish I could do more"

"You can Luis. Just hold me" she leaned into his chest and pulled his arms tightly around her. He ran his fingers through her hair and tried to soothe her.

"Do you want to get out of here?" he offered.

"Very much, but there is something I need to do first. Will you come with me?"

"Of coarse" he replied quickly.

"And can I ask for one more favor?"

"Anything" he squeezed her a bit tighter.

"I don’t mean to be forward or anything, but can I stay with you tonight? After I do what I do, I am not going to be welcome here"

"Yes of coarse. What are you going to do anyway?" his curiosity peaked.

"I’m going back in there" she took a deep breath trying to muster up her courage. "I can’t let him treat me like this anymore"

"Good for you" he rubbed her arm. "Let’s go"

They stood up and Sheridan took a couple more deep breaths and then barged through the door.

Chapter Nine: Christmas Ends:

Alistair and Julian almost dropped their brandy glasses when Sheridan stormed into the dining room. Everyone else nearly jumped out of their seats. Luis came in behind her firmly attached by the hand. Luis carried this smug smile for he knew what was to come, he just hoped Sheridan didn’t lose her nerve. He also was worried that he couldn’t be quiet and he knew she had to do this on her own. God forgive him for his actions if Alistair tried to lay a finger on her.

"What is the meaning of this Sheridan?" the almighty Alistair boomed.

"I came to tell you. I am leaving tomorrow as planned. And no matter what you say I will never give up my job for some stuffy country clubber. Furthermore, I do not need you to find someone suitable for me. I have found someone that can never be replaced"

Sheridan thought that she would solidify her argument with proof. She turned to Luis and pulled him into a lustful kiss. The whole time Luis was thinking ‘this can not be good, this can NOT be good.’ But he didn’t pull away either, she had him under a spell.

"I will not have this display of lust in my home!" Alistair yelled.

"It’s called affection father, not lust"

"Sheridan I forbid you to see this man!" he ordered.

"You forbid me? What are you going to ground me or take away my allowance? I can get by on my own perfectly fine"

"On you’re teachers salary? HA! You won’t last a week. No spa visits or expensive wardrobes. You will come running back"

"I would, but if I can’t make it on my salary alone, I do have the trust fund that is my name"

"Yes but you forget I own the bank I can easily change the name" he said happily.

"Really you own a Swiss bank? I didn’t know that father" Sheridan mused.

"Swiss bank account? What are you talking about Sheridan?"

"You mean the all knowing Alistair Crane doesn’t know something. Like the minute his daughter turned 21 she pulled all her money out of her trust fund and moved it to another bank. Really daddy you need better spies" Alistair just huffed knowing he was beat. "And the only reason I will be running back here would be to see the three beautiful babies Ethan and Gwen produce"

"Like hell you will. Sheridan if you leave this house tonight you are not welcome to come back. Furthermore the people who live under this roof will be forbidden to talk to you"

"You can’t do that Alistair" Katherine stood up in protest.

"Shut up Katherine!" she instantly sat back down.

"You can’t do that daddy!" Sheridan screamed.

"I can and I will" he retorted. "Make the choice Sheridan. Your family or your life?"

"Sheridan, the only thing the family wants is for you to be happy, you won’t be happy if you stay here" Ethan interjected.

"You will all pay for disrespecting me tonight" Alistair seethed.

"Goodbye father"

Sheridan started to walk out the door. She didn’t say goodbye to anyone else because she knew she would be in touch. She never listened to her father before, why would she start now? Sheridan dragged Luis out of the house and into the falling snow. As soon as she was out the door she smiled brightly.

"I did it" she giggled. "I really did it!" she started to twirl around in the snow.

"Sheridan I don’t mean to drag you down, but what about the rest of your family?"

"Luis, I don’t plan on letting my father get his way. I will see them or talk to them as I please. He takes a lot of business trips. Be happy for me, I’m finally free"

"I am very happy for you" he rushed up to her and grabbed her in his arms. He spun her around. As he put her down he started to shower kisses on her face. He didn’t leave a inch undiscovered by his lips. "Come on lets get you packed"

They went to the cottage and gathered her belongings. She took a few extra things like pictures because she didn’t know when she would be back here, if ever at all. Once she was satisfied they got into the rental car and headed to Luis’s parent’s house. It was across town, but in a small town it only took minutes. They arrived at the house to find it quiet and dark. The family must still be at the party. This didn’t bother Luis in the least, he wanted to get Sheridan alone. He had plans of his own.

"Home sweet home" he announced as he flung open the door.

"Yeah sweet" she leaned her head back into his chest and he walked them both in. "Is everyone still at the party?"

"They should be. They usually stay until after midnight. They all pray by candle light on the last minute of Christmas giving thanks for all that they received during the day" he explained.

"That is so sweet Luis. Do you want to go there?"

"No, I want to be here with you"

"Well I would go with you"

"No you misunderstood. I want to be here with you ALONE"

"Mmm. I like the sound of that" she said wrapping her arms around his neck.

They didn’t want things to get out of hand because they could be interrupted at any second, but the kisses they shared were sensual and loving. Every second they spent together strengthen their connection. They finally broke apart and Luis led them into the kitchen.

"Coffee?" he offered.

"I would love some"

"How do you take it?"

"Black, one sugar" she said picking a Christmas cookie off the platter.

"A woman after my heart. Marry me" he joked.

"Ok" she replied flippantly. "But where’s my ring?" she held up her hand and wiggled her bare ring finger.

"Right" he said slapping his head. "How could I forget?" he looked around the kitchen frantically. "Ah ha!" he announced. He ran back to her side. He took her hand in his and placed the white band on her finger.

"A twisty tie?"

"Cut my some slack here it was kind of spur of the moment"

"Ok Romeo" she laughed. The clock struck midnight and started to chime.

"You have cookie on your lip" Luis teased. "Let me help"

They pressed their lips together once again. They sunk in quickly and didn’t bother coming up for air. The kiss was full of fire and they wished they could further their affections. But it wasn’t possible at the time. They broke apart at the same time both gasping for air.

"I love you" the both said breathlessly at the same time. They looked into each other’s eyes and smiled. Then the desire filled their eyes again and they were magnetically attracted again. The twisty tie on her hand may not be the real thing but it might as well have been for both of them. There would be another proposal in time but this one spoke of promises. Christmas had ended but it had brought upon a new beginning.