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

Chapter 1:

Sheridan was sitting in her cottage alone with her thoughts. She kept thinking about Luis. She was sure that after their date at the pool hall things would take off, but now Luis seemed distant again. She couldn't tell what he was thinking and didn't know he felt about her. She was sure she was reading too much into the relationship. He probably just thought of her as a friend, if that. If they were going to go out again it was going to have to be his move. She needed to know that he wanted to be with her. She got up to find her coat and purse and head off for her last day at the youth center. Her hours would be over by the end of the day and she wasn't sure whether to be happy or sad. She wasn't going to be forced to do work anymore but this also took away her chance to see Luis everyday. That affected her more than she let herself to believe. She took a deep breath and headed for her last day. Luis sat on the front stoop of the youth center. He didn't want to go inside. He didn't want this day to start. He knew this was Sheridan's last day. He couldn't stop it from coming even though he desperately wanted to. Their last date had been great but now things were cold again. She seemed to keep pulling away from him, like she was afraid of something. It seemed like she was losing interest. He decided that he would wait and see how she reacted today. Luis looked up and realized he wasn't alone anymore.

"News flash Luis, it's winter. Why are you sitting outside?"

"Hi Sheridan I didn't see you coming. I just needed some fresh air"

"Well can you at least unlock the door so I can go inside? I, unlike you, don't like to sit outside in the below freezing weather"

"Oh sure. It's about time I went inside anyway" Luis unlocked the door and opened it for her. They both walked inside.

"So what do you have planned for me today Luis? It is my last day you know. I'm sure you have something awful planned for me right?" She pretended to be excited this was her last day even though she wished she had 100 more hours with him.

"I didn't forget it was your last day. I'm glad to be finally rid of you" Luis joked.

"Ha ha ha" she said sarcastically.

"You know I was only kidding. But I don't have anything planned for you. You can help me in the office today or the bathrooms could use a good scrubbing. It's your last day you choose"

"It's a tough choice but I think I'd like to help you"

"That's a shocker"

"Are you going to be like this all day, because if you are scrubbing toilets is looking better by the second"

"I'm sorry I'll be serious the rest of the day I promise. Okay Miss Crane, let's get started on the paper work"

"Oh yes please let's get started"

"Now don't you start"

He flashed her a smile and then walked into the office. She sat done in front of the filing cabinet and began to file away as he paid some bills. They sat silently thinking about how this was the last time they were going to work together. It made them both sad and they didn't want to talk because they were afraid the other one would be able to sense their feelings. Finally Luis started some small talk.

"So what are you going to do with all your free time?"

"Well I was hoping to have plans with…" she stopped herself. "Actually I hadn't really thought about it yet"

"You aren't going back to Europe are you?" he questioned her afraid to her the answer.

"No. That thought has never crossed my mind"

"Good. I would…" it was his turn to stop himself. "A lot of people would miss you"

They smiled at each other and shared one of their knowing glares. They couldn't break the stare from each other. They both jumped when Sheridan's cell phone rang. She frowned because she didn't want to take her eyes off Luis but she answered her phone anyway. Luis went back to his paper work as she talked.

"Hello? … Zack is that really you? … It's great to here from you! Where are you now? … Really? You're coming to the States? When? Where? … I'll see what I can do but it is kind of short notice. I would love to see you though. I've missed you so much … Of coarse I'll think about it. I'll call you later okay? … Alright bye Zack"

Luis tried to burry his head back in the paper work as she got off the phone. He felt pangs of jealousy in him he had never felt before. It was obvious that she liked this Zack guy very much. He tried to put on a happy face as she looked over at him. Sheridan noticed a face she had never seen on Luis before. Could this be jealousy she detected?

"Who was that? Old boyfriend?"

"Why Luis, do I hear jealousy in your voice?"

"No of coarse not. I was just curious"

"Right. That was Zack"

"I heard"

"Eavesdropping were you?"

"It was kind of hard not to"

"No need to get defensive. I was joking. I met Zack in Europe when I was a kid. We have been friends as long as I can remember. He travels the world now never staying in one place for too long so we don't get much of chance to see each other anymore"

"That's too bad"

Although he was thinking 'Hooray!' He couldn't see how anyone could help but fall in love with her if they spent a lot of time with her. They spent the rest of the day working in the office. There was a lot of paper work and Luis was glad he was getting some help with it otherwise it would have taken him forever to finish. Their conversations never made it past small talk though. They both waited for the other to start something more serious. But before they knew it the day had come and gone. Sheridan had finished her hours.

"So what do you say we call it a day Sheridan. I have enough paper cuts to last me a lifetime"

"Whatever you say, you're the boss Luis"

"So how do you feel now that you're a free woman?"

"Great! Let's celebrate. Do you want to go out to dinner tonight?" She almost hit herself for breaking the promise to let Luis make the next move, but she couldn't help herself.

"I can't" he saw the disappointment written on her face. "No, don't get me wrong I would love to celebrate with you, but I have to work at the station tonight. In fact I have to work this whole weekend. Can I take a raincheck?"

"Sure" she smiled. "I guess I'll see you around then"

"Yeah around"

They walked out of the youth center. Luis locked the door and got in his car while Sheridan got into her own. They parted ways both leaving their happiness at the youth center. Sheridan arrived back at her cottage still not knowing where she stood with Luis. Now she had the whole weekend to sit and think about it. She needed to find something to distract her. Luis was going to be busy all weekend so there was no hope there. She finally remembered Zack's phone call earlier. It was perfect. She reached for her phone and started dialing. No one answered so she left him a message. "Zack, Hi it's Sheridan. I decided that I would meet you this weekend. I'll see you in a couple of hours" She was satisfied with herself. She went in her room and quickly packed for the weekend. Zack always had a way to cheer her up. She couldn't wait to see him again. She was packed and ready to go. She changed her message on her answering machine to 'Gone for the weekend. I'll call you back when I get home.' That was mostly for Ethan, she didn't want him to worry but she didn't have time to explain to him either. She got into her car and drove away. Luis was upset with Sam. Of all the things he could have him doing tonight he had him setting a speed trap. He would sit in his car all night alone. Just what he needed. What he really needed was some distractions, he needed to be around people. Now all there was to do was think of Sheridan and how he wasn't with her and how she wasn't going to be working with him anymore. He was so consumed in his thoughts he almost missed that car fly by. He quickly turned on his lights and drove after it. The car pulled over and Luis approached it.

"Where were you off to so fast?"

"I'm sorry Officer. I didn't realize how fast I was going"

"Can I have your license and registration please"

As the guy searched the glove box for his registration Luis flashed his flash light throughout the rest of the car. He saw something on the floor behind the passenger side seat. It was under a blanket but he could tell it was alive because it was shaking and the car was no longer running.

"Here you go Officer" Luis looked over the material he was handed they were genuine but he had a feeling this guy was a criminal.

"I need you to step out of the car please"

"Have I done something wrong?"

"Please just step out of the car"

The guy stepped out of the car and promptly sucker punched Luis. He took off running. Luis shook off the punch and ran after him. He caught up to him and tackled him. He cuffed him, read him his rights and threw him in the back of his police car. He then walked back to the guy's car and uncovered the object in the back seat. A little girl lay there. Her eyes were full of fear, but when she saw that Luis wore a police uniform she lunged at him and gave him a hug. "It's going to be alright" he assured her and brought her back to the station with her abductor. The whole time at the station the little girl wouldn't leave Luis's side. He was the only one she trusted. Her name was Olivia James and she was five years old. Sam thought that it was in her best interest if Luis took her home seeing on how attached to him she was. He agreed and the next thing he knew he was on a plane taking Olivia home. Sheridan had made it to the airport just in the nick of time. She was the last one to board the plane. She sat in first class not know that Luis was sitting in coach rows behind her. They were on their way to Las Vegas. Sheridan got off the plane and noticed a mass of reporters waiting outside her gate. She wondered what was going on. She waited to see. A little girl came out of the tunnel and the reporters swarmed around her. She saw a man in uniform scoop her up and take her out of the airport, but between the reporters and the girl the face of the officer is always obscured. She thought the little girl must be a child star or something. She didn't think twice about it. She got a cab and took off to her hotel to meet Zack. Luis scooped Olivia into his arms and fought through the zillions of reporters. They had decided not to have Olivia's father meet her there because they figured the press would be there. And boy were they right. There was a limo waiting outside for them and Luis place Olivia inside and got in himself. He looked around inside. He had never been in a limo before and was amazed. This one was filled with toys and candy for the girl. How sweet for her father to do this for her. He didn't realize this was her normal car.

"Do you like my car Luis?"

"Your car Olivia?"

"Yes, this takes me wherever I want to go. Daddy got it for me when I was born"

"Olivia what does your father do?"

"He owns buildings"

"Buildings?"

"Uh huh. The kind where people come to stay. We live in one of them. I get to meet all sorts of famous people" She dug out a sucker and placed it in her mouth.

"You mean hotels?"

"Yeah that's it. Do you want a lick?" she offered him her sucker.

"No thank you"

Luis looked out the window and saw that they were driving down the strip. It was really bright, there were thousands of lights. Finally they pulled into the circle drive of one of the hotels. It was called The Aphrodite (this is a fictional hotel, I'm not that familiar with Las Vegas). There were reporters waiting for them there two, but the were gated off and they could walk into the hotel without a problem. Luis took Olivia's hand and they walked into the lobby of the hotel. Olivia broke free from Luis and ran over to a man and jumped into his arms. He took a look at the place. It looked like a palace. The floor was covered in marble and there were columns running down the lobby. The ceiling was highly vaulted and the roof was glass. The room was illuminated with natural light. There was a fountain in the middle of the floor and in the middle of it was a beautiful woman pouring water from a pitcher. She was Greek looking because she was wearing what looked like a toga. Luis could only guess that this was Aphrodite. He was so caught up in his surrounding he didn't even notice Olivia dragging her father over to meet Luis.

"Daddy this is my hero, Luis"

"I don't know how to thank you officer"

"You don't have to thank me Mr. James I was just doing my job"

"Please call me Arthur. But they had no leads until you found Olivia. For that I am eternally grateful. How long will you be staying in Las Vegas? Not to long I would guess"

"Actually they couldn't get me a flight back until Monday so I'll be staying at a motel in Barstow until then"

"Nonsense. You will stay right here. You will have the best suite and everything you could be possibly want will be yours for the weekend. It is the least I can do"

"Thank you but…"

"I won't take no for an answer"

Sheridan's cab reached Aphrodite. It was her favorite hotel here. It reminded her of the roman ruins in Italy. She got out of her cab and noticed that there were reporters here too. She wondered what was going on. She asked the desk clerk and found out that the owners daughter had been kidnapped some time ago and was just found and returned from New England. That put everything in perspective. That must have been the little girl from the flight. She was all checked in, got her room key and got on the elevator. She walked right past Luis, but didn't see him. He saw her though. He didn't think anything of it though. Every blonde with short hair had been turning into Sheridan. And at second glance it had turned out to be a different woman. Arthur had gotten Luis a suite and sent him to his room to get settled. He got into the elevator and went to the top floor. Sheridan reached her suite and settled in a chair next to the phone. She had asked if Zack had checked in yet but the clerk said he hadn't. She decided to call and get her messages. There were two new messages. She listened as she heard Zack's voice.

"Hey Sheridan its me. I was hoping to catch you before you left. I got delayed in New York and missed my flight to Las Vegas. I'm sorry to say I'm not going to make it. I booked a new flight to Moscow and am leaving now. I'm sorry. Talk to you soon"

Typical Zack behavior she thought. He always changed his mind at the last minute. Great now what was she supposed to do all weekend. Then the next message started.

"Sheridan hey it's Luis. I guess you went to visit Zack for the weekend. To bad I got the weekend off and was hoping you could join me for some fun. Oh well, talk to you soon" "How can this day get any worse?" she said to herself. Not only was she not going to see Zack this weekend, but she could have been home spending time with Luis if she hadn't come here. Now she was stuck in a not so familiar city alone. She walked around the room checking things out. She opened all the closets not leaving anything undiscovered. She was bored what else did she have to do? She came to another door. She thought it must be another closet but it looked more like an entry door than a closet door. She reached for the handle. The bellhop showed Luis his room and pointed out where everything was. "What is that door for?"

"That's the door to the adjoining suite sir. Let me make sure it is locked"

The bellhop walked over to the door but before he could check and see if it was locked it opened. Sheridan was startled to see someone standing there.

"Oh I'm sorry I thought this was a closet" she shut the door quickly feeling incredibly embarrassed. Luis recognized that voice, but it couldn't be her.

"Wait!" he yelled through the door. He pushed the bellhop out of the way and flung open the door. She looked at him surprised to see his face staring at her. He walked over and started to kiss her passionately. The bellhop snuck of the room unnoticed.

"Wow" Sheridan gasped. "What are you doing here?"

"It's really you, Sheridan?"

"Yes it's me" she gave him a quizzical look.

"I've been seeing your face on some many other woman today. I was hoping it was you this time"

"How many of these women have you kissed today that weren't me?"

"None" She breathed a sigh of relief.

"Now what are you doing here?" Luis told her the story about him and Olivia and she told him that Zack had changed plans. They had the whole weekend to spend together.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 2:

"Luis I thought you were my guardian angel. Don’t tell me you are working for another girl now"

"Afraid of a little competition?"

"Not at all. But I have to warn you I’m a sore loser"

"I don’t think you have to worry about losing"

They looked deep into each other’s eyes. They were so attracted to each other. It was inevitable that a kiss was to come. Neither spoke, they just moved closer and closer. Their foreheads were resting on each other and they both smiled, anticipating what was to come. Their lips brushed against each other and the sparks began to fly. The kiss quickly intensified and their hands began to roam freely. There was a knock on Luis’s door. They broke apart but the desire didn’t vanish. They looked in the direction of the door and then back at each other. The chemistry heated up again and the chose to ignore the door and return to their temptation. But again they were interrupted by a knock on the door.

"I guess they aren’t going to go away" Luis managed to even though he was completely out of breath.

"You should get it" Luis walked through the adjoining door of their suites and answered the door. Olivia stood outside the door. As soon as he opened the door she ran in and gave him a hug.

"Hi Luis"

"Olivia. How are you?"

"I’m good. Daddy sent me to see if you wanted to have dinner with us. He didn’t want you to be alone"

"Well actually I’m not alone" she looked around the room but didn’t see anyone.

"Luis do you have an imaginary friend? I had one once but my therapist said it wasn’t good for me"

"No" he walked Olivia over to Sheridan’s room. "Olivia this is Sheridan"

"Hello Sheridan. I very pleased to meet you" she curtsied.

"I’m very glad to meet you too Olivia"

"Is this your wife Luis?" Olivia asked innocently.

"No Olivia. Sheridan is my friend"

"Is she you girrrlfriend?" Sheridan and Luis looked at each other not sure what to say. "She IS!!!" They still didn’t say anything. They just kept looking at each other. "Well she can come to dinner too. Please say yes Luis" He looked at Sheridan and she nodded yes.

"Okay Olivia, we’ll come"

"Goody! I told Daddy you would come. I’ll see you down stairs in a couple of minutes" Olivia skipped out of the rooms and down the hall.

"I hope you don’t mind having dinner with Olivia and her father"

"Of course not Luis. You are a big hero here, I will be proud to accompany you to dinner"

"I’m not to sure about this hero stuff but I’m glad you’re here and are coming with me. Although I wish we could stay and finish what we started before she got here"

"Me too, but don’t look at me like that or we will never get down stairs. I’m going to quickly change" Luis took his cue and started to head back to his room but when he got to the door way he turned back.

"About what Olivia said about you being my…"

"Girlfriend?"

"Yeah… I … um kind of liked it"

"So did I" she smiled sweetly at him "Now go so I can get ready"

Sheridan grabbed a black dress out of her suitcase and ran into the bathroom. She came back out fully changed, except she couldn’t get the back her dress zipped up. She walked over to Luis’s room and knocked on the wall since the door was open. She didn’t want to walk into the room unannounced in case he was changing or something.

"Yeah Sheridan"

"Can I come in?"

"The door’s open"

"I know but I wanted to make sure it was alright"

"You are always welcome" she walked in the room.

"Wow you look terrific"

"Thanks you don’t look to shabby yourself but can you do me a favor?"

"What do you need?"

"Can you zip up my dress?"

He walked up to her but as soon as he got close he could smell her perfume. The smell was intoxicating. He couldn’t help but run his hand up and down the middle of her bare back before he zipped up the dress. The touch of hand sent shivers through her entire body. She didn’t want him to stop. Reluctantly he grabbed the zipper and pulled it closed. She turned around and was now facing him.

"There how is that?"

"I think I got a little more than what I asked for Luis"

"I’m sorry" he looked away from her.

"I didn’t say I didn’t like it"

She put her arms around his neck and gave him a gentle kiss. Both of them were careful not to let it intensify this time because they knew they needed to go downstairs for dinner. Luis took her hand in his and they made their way to the elevator. When the got to the main floor the door open and when the got out they were greeted by the press. The cameras started going off like wild when they noticed it was him that got off the elevator. He never thought that the press would be interested in him. He thought they were there for the girl and her father. He wasn’t expecting this. A huge man came out of the flock of reporters and told them to follow him. Luis grabbed Sheridan’s arm and held tight as they fought the maze of people. The walked through a set of doors and the doors were closed protecting them from the madness. They were only separated from the reporters by glass though so the cameras kept flashing.

"See Luis I’m not the only who considers you a hero"

"This is insane. I’ve never been the focus of this much attention before"

"Enjoy it Luis. You deserve it"

"But I wasn’t even trying to find Olivia"

"But you did and that’s all those people car about. Arthur James is the wealthiest man in Las Vegas and you rescued his daughter. You are going to be a saint in this city for a long time"

"Do you know Mr. James?"

But before she could answer they noticed that the flock of reporters had stopped taking pictures of them. The reporters ran away from the glass. They wondered what that was all about, but then they realized what was happening. Mr. James and Olivia had gotten off the elevator and were heading to join them. The glass doors opened and Mr. James and Olivia came in and joined them at the table. Mr. James was surprised to Sheridan with Luis.

"Good evening Luis, and Sheridan what a pleasure to see you here. Olivia told me Luis was bringing someone with him but it is a pleasant surprise to see you"

"Thank you Arthur. Hello Olivia, you look very pretty"

"Thank Sheridan. Hi Luis"

Luis looked at Sheridan and Arthur and wondered how they knew each other. It shouldn’t surprise him though. They were both part of rich and powerful families.

"How do you two know each other?" Luis asked curiously.

"I was about to ask you the same thing" Arthur said as he looked over at Sheridan and Luis.

"Well since I know the answer to both questions let me try and fill you both in" Sheridan tried to explain the situations with out complicating things too much. Olivia sat and colored while the grown-ups talked. "Luis, Olivia is not Arthur’s only child. He is also Zack’s father" Luis knew Arthur looked old to have a five-year-old daughter, but he didn’t think he was that old. "I’ve been here many times to visit with Zack because our families are very close. And as for how I know Luis, I came crashing back into Harmony. Literally. I moved back to Harmony last summer and totaled Luis’s police car. I was sentenced to community service at the local youth center which is run by Luis. Did I clear things up?"

"You did for me" Luis stated.

"I have one more question for you Sheridan"

"What is it Arthur?"

"What are you doing here?"

"Zack didn’t tell you?"

"No"

"I was supposed to meet him here for the weekend but his plans changed when he got stuck in New York"

"Typical. I haven’t seen Zack in over two years. I don’t even think Olivia would recognize him"

They all looked over at Olivia realizing they had been ignoring her. But she was fast asleep with crayons in hand. Arthur motioned to a man standing in the corner who came and scooped up Olivia and carried her off to bed. They three of them remained and chatted about everything from Sheridan’s family to Luis’s chances at getting the promotion. Arthur told Luis that he was going to write the Harmony PD a glowing recommendation for him. At 11 o’clock Arthur said he needed to get bed. So they said their goodnights and Sheridan and Luis got back in the elevator and headed back to their suites. They got off the elevator and were not sure what to do. They didn’t want to leave each other but didn’t know what the other was thinking.

"Well, I’ll see you tomorrow okay?" Luis didn’t want to push things.

"Yeah okay tomorrow" Sheridan said trying to hide her disappointment.

"Goodnight Sheridan"

Luis kissed her gently on the cheek and walked over to his door. Sheridan fished in her purse for her key and entered her room as Luis got his key and opened his door. They looked over at each other before they went into their rooms. They stole a last glimpse of each other and went in their rooms. Sheridan threw her purse on a chair and collapsed on her bed letting a huge sigh. "I can’t take this much longer" she half whispered. She wanted to be with Luis. They connected she was sure of it, they were just having trouble admitting it. Luis walked in and set his keys on a table near the entryway. He walked past the open adjoining door. He glanced in not wanting to invade her privacy. He saw her lying on her bed with her hands over her head. She looked like she just fell into that position. He smiled and was going to continue further into his room when he heard her talking to herself. "God why can’t we just be together?" She slammed her hands onto the bed and sat herself up. Luis quickly hid behind the wall. He didn’t want her to he was watching her. He walked over to his suitcase and fished out his toothbrush then walked into the bathroom. Sheridan heard the water running in the next room and realized that Luis could have heard what she just said. She got up and walked over to the door and peered inside. She couldn’t believe what she saw her eyes almost popped out of her head. Luis was inside the bathroom brushing his teeth in only his boxers. She was doing all she could to not drool and run over there and maul him. She regained her composure as Luis put his toothbrush down. She turned back to her suite and decided to get ready for bed too. Luis came out of the bathroom and heard her fumbling around in her room. He was very tempted to go see what she was doing in there but he fought off the temptation to invade her privacy again. He laid on his pillow and closed his eyes instead. Sheridan out on a pair or flannel pajama bottoms and a tank top and walked in the bathroom to get ready for bed. She was thinking about Luis so much that she kept dropping things. She was sure that he was going to come in and make sure she was okay but he didn’t. She was half glad though she didn’t think she could keep her hands off of him if she saw him again tonight. She was still so much in a daze when she left the bathroom that she didn’t even notice the chair in the path to her bed. She tripped on the leg of it and sent herself flying onto the floor. Luis jerked his eyes opened when he heard a thud coming from Sheridan’s room. He quickly sat up and listened. He then heard an

"Oww. I’m such a klutz!" come from her room and he couldn’t keep himself from chuckling.
"Hey are you alright in there?" Luis yelled trying to contain his laughter.

"Yeah I’m alright Luis. That stupid chair just jumped out in front of me" he couldn’t hold his laughter in any longer as he imagined what just happened.

"Hey its not funny it really hurt" she sat on her bed and examined her foot to make sure everything was still in place.

"I’m sorry" he laid back down. "Are you really ok?"

"Yeah really I’m fine, my ego is just a little bruised" she climbed into bed and turned off the light.

"Goodnight Luis"

"Sweet dreams Sheridan"

"Of you" she said under her breath.

They both closed their eyes but couldn’t fall asleep. They keep think about how beautiful the other was or how much they wished they were lying together instead of being separated by a wall. Sheridan opened her eyes and stared at the ceiling. Quietly she started counting sheep, but that didn’t work either. Luis tried to get her out of his mind with no avail. He looked over at the window but he had the blinds closed because of all the lights outside. He looked up at the ceiling and started to count the tiles. That was until he heard Sheridan scream. That was followed promptly by her racing into his room and slamming the adjoining door shut. He sat up in his bed and gave her a confused look. She was leaning against the door to make sure it was going to stay closed. Luis flung up the cover and rushed to her side.

"Sheridan, are you ok? Is someone in there?"

"Not someone Luis, something. I think I just saw a mouse"

"A mouse?"

"Yeah and it wasn’t Mickey or any of his relatives!" he just smiled at her statements.

"I didn’t think Sheridan Crane was afraid of anything, let alone a cute little mouse"

"It’s not funny Luis. This thing was big and ugly"

"Come sit down, I’ll get you a glass of water"

She looked around the floor before she took any steps. She was making sure that the mouse didn’t have any friends over her. Luis noticed this and was growing impatient. After each step she took she surveyed the room again. Luis thought that this could take forever so he walked over to her, put her arms around his neck and gently lifted her from the ground. He carried her off to his bed and sweetly set her down. Her eyes followed him as he disappeared into the bathroom and then cam back with some water for her. He sat down next to her and put his arm around her.

"You ok now?"

"Yeah, I’m better now" she took a deep breath and a sip of water.

"Thank you"

"So do you want me to go take care of your little friend?"

"No Luis don’t you dare open that door! I don’t want him to come in here. Can I use your phone and call for a new room?"

"Nonsense. You can stay right here. I can sleep on the couch"

"I’m not taking your bed away from you. I’ll sleep on the couch"

"I’m trying to be a gentleman here. Take the bed"

"And I politely declined your offer. You take the bed"

"Good night Sheridan" he got up and headed for the couch, but she wasn’t going to let him win that easily. She made a mad dash for the couch and jumped on it.

"Sheridan what are you doing?"

"Sleeping on the couch. Now goodnight" she reached over, found a blanket and spread it over herself.

"Oh no you don’t" he walked over to her picked her and carried her back over to the bed. He paused as he stood at the foot of the bed.

"Luis put ME down"

"What ever you say Sheridan" he threw her and her blanket on the bed. He then reached over and grabbed the blanket from her, hurried to the couch and laid down. She looked over at him and decided she wasn’t going to let him win. She marched over to him. "What do you think you are going to pick me up and carry me to the bed?"

She knew Luis was right but she was going to try her hardest to get him off that couch. She stepped over him and positioned herself so she was sitting on the back of the couch with her back against a wall. She took her feet and jammed them against Luis’s back and pushed as hard as she could. She sent him rolling on to the floor. Satisfied with herself she slid down the back of the couch and sat there grinning at him. He got up and walked over to her so he was standing right in front of her. Knowing the he was just going to scoop her up again she grabbed the back of the couch of dear life. He pulled at her and she was suspended in mid air, her holding onto the couch and Luis having a hold of most of the rest of her body. Finally Luis gave up and sat down next to her. He grabbed the blanket off the floor.

"Fine if you won’t listen to reason we’ll just both sleep here" he laid down and pulled her next to him and spread the blanket on top of both of them.

They soon fell asleep with smiles on their faces wrapped in each other’s arms. Sheridan woke up in the morning still tucked away in Luis’s arms. He was holding her close to his body. She wanted to she his face and his body too, so she tried to twist around in his arms so she could face him. The couch wasn’t quite wide enough for this though and she sent them both onto the floor. They knocked their heads together when they hit the ground.

"OW!" the both gasped and reached for there heads.

"Morning Luis" Sheridan said while rubbing her head.

"Morning Sheridan"

"Did you sleep alright?"

"I did until now"

"I’m sorry"

"For what?"

"For causing this. I was trying to turn around the couch just wasn’t as big as I thought"

"You are a klutz aren’t you?"

He leaned over and innocently kissed her good morning on the lips. But in that short kiss something happened, something magical. He looked deep in her eyes and saw the desire he felt in his own. He leaned back in for another kiss only this time things heated up quickly. The kiss became more and more passionate as temptation took over their minds. All hope was lost for them taking things slowly. Their hands roamed freely and their clothes were lost. Luis again carried her to bed. And that’s when it happened, without any explanation. They made love for the first time. They laid in each other’s arms afterwards both beaming with happiness. Sheridan rolled over and looked in his dark eyes and then she pinched him.

"Ow, what was that for?"

"I wanted to make sure this wasn’t another dream"

"Another dream?"

"I’ve dreamed about this moment hundreds of times, I just wanted to make sure this time it was real, because was better than I ever could have imagined"

"It wasn’t a dream, I assure you" he kissed her again.

She was in heaven. She never wanted this moment to end. There was a knock on the door and the person outside announced that he was room service. Luis got up and quickly threw on a pair of boxer shorts. Sheridan glanced around for her clothes but they weren’t anywhere in site. She noticed Luis’s suitcase was right next to the bed and grabbed a t-shirt and boxers out of it and put them on she walked out to the dining area where a bellhop was wheeling in a cart of food.

"Luis when did you have time to order this?"

"I didn’t"

"This is compliments of Mr. James" the bellhop said as he left the room. They both looked over the cart.

"Hey there’s a note Luis" Luis took it and read it aloud to Sheridan.

Luis,
I hope you and Sheridan are enjoying your stay her at the Aphrodite, she is the goddess of love and helped to bring many couple together in her day. Not that you two need any help, I saw the way you two looked at each other last night. I sent up extra food in case you two worked up an appetite. Enjoy the food and each other.
Arthur James

"He sure isn’t modest is he Sheridan?"

"He never has been. As long as I’ve known him he has always said whatever came across his mind" they sat at the table and began to eat.

"Did I tell you that you look beautiful this morning?" he said as he looked her up and down.

"I hope you don’t mind. My clothes are…somewhere"

"I don’t mind at all. You look better in that than I ever would"

"I highly doubt that. So what do you want to do today Luis" he looked over at the bed and then back at her seductively.

"Luis, we have the rest of our lives for that. We are only in Las Vegas until tomorrow, isn’t there anything else you want to do? I’m sure Arthur has an extensive account set up for downstairs in the casino"

"I wouldn’t feel right using someone else’s money"

"You don’t have to keep it Luis. Just use it to play the games. That way you can play and lose as much as you want an not have to worry because it’s not your money"

"I guess but I was thinking…" he paused and he looked into her eyes.

"You were thinking what?"

"I was thinking that Las Vegas was famous for something other than Casinos"

"What’s that?"

"Wedding Chapels"

To Be Continued...

Chapter 3:

Sheridan had just taken a sip of orange juice and as soon as she heard Luis's comment she spit it out, spraying it across the table. Unfortunately Luis was in the way and was now covered in juice.

"Oh I'm sorry Luis" she grabbed her napkin and went over to him, wiping off her mess from his chiseled torso.

"Its ok, I'm just glad I haven't taken a shower yet this morning"

"Its just that I thought you said Las Vegas was famous for wedding chapels"

"I did"

"Oh, you did. Well I think my mind just wandered and I jumped to the wrong conclusion then"

"I don't think you did" She instantly stopped wiping Luis's chest and stared into his eyes. She had a stunned look on her face. She started to walk away from him, but after a few steps she whirled back around.
"Luis you can't be serious"

"I've never been more serious in my life"

"You want to get married after only being together for umm 24 hours maybe, if that?"

"Yes" he stated bluntly.

"I don't think I'm ready" Sheridan said sadly. "I mean don't get me wrong, I think we have something special between us. It's the greatest feeling I've felt in my entire life, but this is all going so fast"

"You don't have to scared of me. I know you have been hurt in the past and you have to know that I will NEVER hurt you"

"I know that Luis but…"

"But nothing. Do you love me?"

"I … ah …" she was nervous about revealing how she felt about him. "Do you love me?" she asked in a quiet almost scared voice. He walked up to her and took her hand in his. They held a loving stare and Luis went on bended knee.

"Yes Sheridan Crane I love you. Please make the happiest person on this planet, no the happiest being in this universe and say you'll be my wife"

"Luis…I…I…just can't. I'm sorry"

She broke free from him and sat on the couch they shared earlier this morning. She tried to fight her tears but some managed to escape and trickle down her face. Luis walked over to her and sat down besides her. He wiped away her tears and put his arm around her and gave her a squeeze. She turned and buried her head in his shoulder. The tears fell move rapidly then. Luis rubbed her back trying to calm her down. She looked up at his eyes and saw warmth and concern. She sat back up taking herself out of his arms.

"Luis, I'm sorry I don't mean to hurt you. I love you, more than I ever imagined was possible but"

"Hey no need to explain. I shouldn't have pushed you. I know how hurt you've been in the past, I should have been more sensitive"

"More sensitive? You're the one consoling me after I turned down your marriage proposal. I think I need sensitivity lessons. You are the most sensitive, caring, and understanding person I've ever met, not to mention my guardian angel"

"I'm lucky to have that job. Now what you say we dry those tears"

"Huh?"

"Nice answer. Let's go have some fun"

"I'd like that"

"Good first let me take a shower and clean off the orange juice. Then we can go explore the casino and maybe win a little money for the Youth Center"

"Okay. I'm going to go shower too"

"Want to join me?" he said with a devilish grin.

"Do you want to leave the room today?" she inched closer to him.

"Well I don't know, things don't seem so bad right here"

"I know what you mean"

Sheridan stood right in front of Luis and slowly leaned in for a kiss. She wanted the anticipation to build. But as soon as their lips brushed together she pulled away slowly. She ran her hand down his chest as she circled around him. Her hand trailed behind and was now on the small of his back. She made it appear that she was going to kiss him but instead she gave his butt a squeeze and walked quickly to the adjoining door.

"See you in a few Luis"

"That was just down right mean Sheridan"

"I told you I needed sensitivity lessons"

"I'll get you back for that"

"Oh, those are some big words, but do you ever follow through on those threats?"

"You better believe it"

Luis walked towards Sheridan fiercely. He pushed her against the door and pinned her hands above her head. She knew he was going to break away so she tried with all her might not to sink into the kiss, but she just couldn't fight it anymore. Luis felt Sheridan get lost into the kiss and knew it was time. He forced himself to back away from her.

"Have a nice shower Sheridan" he walked to his bathroom with his head held high. He was quite proud of himself.

"You are…ARRGGG"

He turned back and watched her as she turned the handle and went into her room. The first thing Sheridan did when she got into her room was run to the phone. She picked it up, ran into the bathroom and closed the door so Luis wouldn't hear her talking. She dialed Ethan. The phone rang but there was no answer. She decided to try his cell phone hoping he wouldn't be in a meeting. Luis heard Sheridan go into her bathroom he left his and went over to the phone. He dialed Sam at the Station. He knew Sam always worked weekend mornings and was hoping he wasn't away from his office. Sheridan was in luck. Ethan had his cell phone turned on.

"Hello?"

"Ethan, I'm so glad you have your phone on"

"Hi Sheridan. What's up?"

"Life is wonderful"

"What happened? Last I knew your emotions were in turmoil"

"Love happened"

"Oh not to change the subject but where the hell are you? I called the cottage and got a message that said you were gone for the weekend"

"I'm in Las Vegas"

"What are you doing there?"

"I came to visit Zack for the weekend"

"Oh so that's it"

"What's it?"

"You and Zack finally hit if off. We've all be waiting of it to happen…" Sheridan cut him off.

"I'm not in love with Zack. You didn't let me finish"

"Ok finish"

"I came to meet with Zack but when I got here Zack had called and said he wouldn't be able to make it. Then I found out that Luis was here"

"Luis is in Las Vegas?!?!"

"Yes and we are having a great time" she beamed with happiness.

"How good of a time are you having"

"He asked me to marry him"

"HE WHAT???"

"I said no"

"You what?"

"I said NO"

"Ok, now I'm confused you love the guy, are infatuated with the guy, would die for the guy and you said no to marrying him"

"Gee, when you say it like that I feel like an idiot"

"So why did you say no?"

Luis was also in luck. Sam was at his desk and picked up the phone.

"Hello?"

"Hey Sam it's Luis"

"Oh hey Luis. What's going on?"

"Sam's something's happened"

"Oh no Luis don't give me any bad news. I'm in a meeting right now discussing your promotion to detective. This case was going to be the high profile case you needed. What happened with the girl?"

"Well that all depends on which girl your talking about"

"I don't follow Luis"

"Olivia James is fine, she is with her father now"

"Then which girl are you talking about?"

"Sheridan"

"Sheridan Crane?"

"She's the only Sheridan I know. She was supposed to be meeting Mr. James son here for the weekend. Apparently the Cranes and James are close family friends. Well we found out we had adjoining suites…"

"Luis I thought the station had you staying in Barstow?"

"They did, but Mr. James insisted I stay at his Hotel. Anyways that's not important. Well it finally happened Sam we're together. I even asked her to marry me"

"You what? Are you nuts? The Cranes are never going to let you and Sheridan be married"

"Don't worry Sam. She said no"

"The why are you so happy?"

"Ethan, I didn't say no because I don't love Luis, because I do. I love him so much it scares me but I'm just not ready. I have been burned so many times that I can't let myself be happy. There is something inside of me that keeps telling me not to get too close, not to open myself to him"

"From what I have heard from Pilar and seen myself Luis is a stand up kind of man. You are lucky to have found someone so respectable. Sheridan you can't let the past dictate your future. If you do you are letting all those men in the past still hurt you. True love is very special don't let it slip through your fingers"

"How did you get to be so smart?"

"Lucky I guess. When are you coming home?"

"Tomorrow"

"Well enjoy you time until then. And remember trust in love. I have and look at me and Gwen. We are happier then ever"

"I will. Bye Ethan"

"Sam, I'm happy because I'm in love. Sheridan said she loved me too she just wasn't ready for marriage yet. It doesn't mean she won't be. I'm going to wait for her until she's ready because she is the best thing to ever happen to me"

"Be careful ok. The Cranes are dangerous people. They can cause a lot of damage and heart ache"

"Sheridan's different Sam"

"Just watch your back ok?"

"Yeah Sam, but there's nothing to worry about. I'll talk to you when I get back. I just had to call and talk to someone"

"See you tomorrow Luis"

Sam and Ethan hung up their phones at the same time. Ethan had come to the station to meet with Sam about finding money to hire a new detective. The new opening was intended for Luis. They both just stared at each other for a moment and sighed simultaneously. For some reason that they couldn't grasp they seemed to act oddly alike.

"I'm sorry for the interruption Sam"

"Its ok Ethan, I had a phone call of my own. Is everything ok, you don't have to leave do you? We still have a lot of things to go over and I was hoping to get them done before tomorrow"

"No, I don't have to leave. That was Sheridan. You'll never believe what happened. Luis asked Sheridan to marry him" Ethan paused and waited for a surprised expression to arise on his face, but it didn't come.

"And she said no"

"How did you know Sam?"

"That was Luis"

"Ah. So did he sound so in love that it made you think of Grace" Sam was stunned by what Ethan said. He was so caught up in his own thoughts that he didn't hear what Ethan said next. All he could tell was it was something about Gwen.

"Um…yeah Luis is on cloud nine right now. And yeah it did make me think about Grace"

Sam was lying through his teeth. Sam and Luis's conversation made him think about Ivy, not Grace. But that was because Luis was going to go through the same thing he did, or that's what he forced himself to believe. Sheridan and Luis both hurried and jumped in the shower. They both thought they had to hurry because the other would be finished first and wonder what was taking them so long. When they finished both realized they had been in such a hurry that they left all their clothes in the other rooms. Sheridan put on the complimentary robe hanging from the back of the door. It was pink and had The Aphrodite emblem embroidered in red on it. She flung a towel around her head and ran out to find the perfect outfit for today. Luis also saw the robe but noticing its pretty colors he opted for a towel instead. He wrapped it haphazardly around his waist and hurried to his suitcase. As he dug through his suitcase he could hear something in Sheridan's room. He walked over to the door quietly and saw her kneeling in front of her suitcase throwing things over her shoulder. He smiled because he knew she must be looking for something special. He turned back around to finish getting ready. As he turned though the towel loosened from his waist and started to fall. He tried to catch it but in doing this he caused the floor to squeak. Sheridan heard this and leaned back to look through the adjoining door. She got an eyeful of Luis's backside as he fished for his towel on the floor. He got his towel back and secured it around his waist. He realized that he didn't hear the clothes flying anymore and turned back around. Sheridan quickly turned back to her suitcase and tried to pretend to look through it. Luis knew she saw though because her face was crimson. Deciding that he already had embarrassed himself enough he tried to forget about what just happened and go get dressed. Sheridan heard him continue walking and breathed a sigh of relief. She picked out a red scoop neck shirt with ¾ sleeves. It was made of stretchy material and fit her body like a glove. She had brought a pair of black bootcut pants with her and put those on. Satisfied with the way she looked she went back into the bathroom and did her hair and makeup. Luis chose to wear a navy cable knit v-neck sweater and a pair of khaki pants. He heard Sheridan making his way over to his room and jumped in a chair and grabbed the paper.

"Hey handsome, have you been waiting long?"

"Only about 15 minutes beautiful"

"Luis you're lying"

"No I'm not you're breath taking"

"Well thank you, but I wasn't talking about that. So what's happening in the news today?" she smirked because as he looked at his paper he noticed it was upside down.

"I just finished getting ready, you caught me. But I'm not the only liar in this room"

"I haven't ever lied to you"

"Oh no?"

"No"

"Well then Miss Crane, what about last night?"

"I did not lie to you last night"

"Well then you overcame your fear of mice pretty quickly" he shot he a smile and she new she was caught but she wasn't going to let him win without a fight.

"I just figured they only come out at night so I'd be safe"

"You are such a bad liar, just admit it you wanted to come see me last night"

"I did not"

"Then why did you make up the phantom mouse?"

"It was real!" Luis just gazed at her, waiting for her to admit the truth. "ok, ok, so I made the mouse up. I couldn't sleep"

"And?"

"And what?"

"You came racing into my room because you couldn't sleep? They have sleeping pills for that kind of thing. I'm not buying your story so you might as well fess up"

"Alright, I wanted to see you. Is that so terrible?"

"No actually it is kind of sweet. Come here" Luis had remained seated since Sheridan's arrival and she walked over and sat on his lap. They fit perfectly together. He kissed her on the forehead and took her hands in his.

"I can't tell you how lucky I feel to have you with me this weekend Sheridan"

"Can we stay this way forever Luis?"

It was early in the evening before Sheridan and Luis made there way down to the casino. The press had all but left, so they could walk around and not be bothered. Or so they thought. As soon as they entered the casino beautiful women kept coming up to Luis and asking for his autograph he tried to be polite and decline but they wouldn't take no for an answer. Soon Luis was surrounded by beauties and Sheridan had been pushed away from him. She didn't think anything of it at first, it was just an inconvenience and he deserved to enjoy it. Luis was pinned at one end of a bar and Sheridan had taken a seat on the other side watching him as he signed away. Soon though Sheridan became angry with these women, they were slipping phone numbers into his pocket and one even gave him her bra. That wasn't really why she was upset though, it seemed that Luis had forgotten about her. And every time another women touched him she took a drink. Luis didn't forget about her though, every chance he got he looked over at her. He noticed that a guy had came and begun talking to Sheridan. Who was he kidding this guys was flirting with her. He tried to get away, but it was impossible. Now every time he saw the guy look at her he took a drink too. By the end of the night they were both completely hammered to the point that they didn't remember the rest of the night. Sheridan woke up in the morning and looked around and couldn't believe what she saw, or what she didn't see. She wasn't in her room or Luis's. In fact it didn't even look like the same hotel. She quickly sat up and surveyed the room, the first thing she noticed was she wasn't alone. Someone was in the bed with her, only she couldn't see who it was because the blanket was pulled over his face. Slowly she pulled the blanket away from the man's face and gasped.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 4:

Sheridan lowered the blanket from the man's head and realized it was the man she had been talking to last night. She vaguely remembered being in a cab with him, but nothing else. What had she done? She began to cry. How could she have ruined things between her and Luis. Her jealousy had overcome her when she Luis enjoying all those women hanging over him. Just then she became angry at Luis for ignoring her all night. She thought she must not be as special to him as she thought. This made her cry harder, either way she had lost Luis. She was crying so loud that she awoke the man next to her.

"Hey are you alright Sheridan?"

"Where am I, who are you, and what have I done?" the tears streamed down her face.

"You don't remember anything?"

"NO!!!" she sobbed.

"Calm down ok? Nothing happened"

"What do you mean nothing happened? I'm in bed with a strange man and the man I love is off gallivanting with a bunch of bimbos"

"If you look down at yourself you'll see your fully clothed and also notice I am on top of the sheet you are under"

"So we didn't?"

"No. My name is Alex Janssen, we met at the bar last night"

"How did I end up here?" she began to wipe away her tears.

"I took you here because you said that you couldn't be with, now these were your words, that filthy piece of scum. Then I told you I would let you stay here if you wanted"

"And I accepted?"

"Yes"

"Good how stupid can I be? Oh my god I'm sorry. You seem nice enough, but it was really irresponsible of me to do this, and out of character"

"Its ok, I understand. Look I'll call you a cab and you can go try and work things out with your boyfriend"

"That's if I still have a boyfriend"

Luis had woken in the morning snug in his own bed. He wasn't quite sure how he got there, but he was glad he was safe. Last night had been a mistake he had drank way too much. And boy did he feel it today. He remembered seeing Sheridan walking off with the man at the bar. He thought it was because he was ignoring her, which this morning he figured out he really was, but when he walked to the adjoining door he saw her bed wasn't slept in. He slammed the door shut and started to pack rapidly. He was going to be gone before she got back if he could help it. He needed to go and say goodbye to Olivia before he left or she would be crushed, so he left his suitcases in his room and went to find her. As he got to the elevator he noticed they were all at the lobby so he waited impatiently for one to come. The sooner he did this the sooner he could leave. Sheridan had gotten back to the hotel and was poised to patch things up with Luis. She didn't do anything too terrible. She did flirt with another guy and she was ready to apologize for that. She realized that what they really needed to do was communicate better. They still danced around too much. She got on the elevator and as each floor passed she got more nervous. 'I hope this works' she thought. The door of the elevator opened and Luis stared as he saw Sheridan in it. He got on without saying a word. She saw the anger in his eyes but didn't move. The doors began to shut and Luis reached out to stop them.

"Did you want this floor?" he said coldly.

"We need to talk"

"I'm busy. I'll be back in a couple of minutes"

"We can talk then?"

"Whatever"

Sheridan got off the elevator and walked sadly to her room. He was so upset with her, he was never going to believe nothing happened. She had to try though. She walked into her room and the first thing she noticed was that the adjoining door had been closed. She was sure Luis closed it when she didn't return last night. She didn't want him to sneak out though so she checked to see if it was locked. It wasn't so she let herself in and sat on the bed and waited for Luis's return. Luis couldn't believe Sheridan was just getting back. He convinced himself that it was the end for them. She was with someone else. And even if it was just for one night, he wouldn't be able to trust her again. He found Olivia in the pool. He smiled as he watched Mr. James teach Olivia to swim. He was glad Mr. James made time to spend with her. He then thought about how much he wanted that to be him someday. He wanted to be able to teach his son or daughter to swim. He wanted Sheridan to be the mother of the children but who was he kidding. If she dismissed them so easily how could there be a future. Olivia saw Luis and climbed out of the pool. She hugged his legs leaving him drenched.

"Hi Olivia. I came to say goodbye"

"You're leaving Luis?" he saw tiny tears form.

"Hey don't be sad. We'll see each other again sometime"

"Really?"

"Yeah, maybe not soon, but someday. I promise"

"I'll miss you" she clung to his legs.

"I'll miss you too" he gave her a tousle. Mr. James had gotten out of the pool and was bringing a towel over for Olivia. He pulled her away from Luis, wrapped her up and took her up into his arms.

"I wanted to thank you for letting me stay here Mr. James"

"It was the least I could do, thank you for bringing my daughter back. And may I say congratulations"

"Congratulations? Why?"

"On your marriage"

Sheridan sat in Luis's room. She laid down and tried to forget last night ever happened. She was lost in her thoughts and almost didn't hear the key in the door. She jumped and watched as the door opened. It wasn't Luis though, it was a beautiful woman. The woman had long dark hair and was of Hispanic decent. She was very thin and built quite well. She was wearing a sky blue sports bra, black stretchy shorts, and tennis shoes. Sheridan wondered what she was doing with a key to Luis's room. The woman looked at Sheridan curiously.

"Is Luis here?" the woman asked.

"He stepped out for a minute. Can I help you?"

"Actually I'll just wait for him" she sat down on the couch.

"If you don't mind me asking who are you?"

"I could ask you the same thing. I'm his wife, Amelia Sanchez"

"You're his what?"

"His wife, we got married last night" Sheridan felt a lump in her throat she did everything she could to hold back the tears.

"And you are?"

"I'm no one"

"Whatever" Amelia looked at her watch.

"Shoot I have a class to teach, when Luis comes back will you tell him I came by?"

"Yeah" Amelia ran to the door. "That's not all I'll tell him" Sheridan said under her breath.

Luis thought he couldn't have heard Mr. James correctly. He looked at Mr. James with a blank look on his face. Then he looked down at his left hand and sure enough there was a wedding band there.

"Boy you really had me going Luis. I thought you and Sheridan had something but I heard this morning you married one of my aerobic instructors. I'm going to be sorry to see her go, but I'm sure she'll be happy in Harmony"

"Mr. James I need to go. I'm sorry. Goodbye"

"Goodbye Luis, come back soon"

Mr. James yelled as Luis ran to the elevator. The floor weren't passing fast enough. This couldn't be true. He couldn't be married. He ran off the elevator and headed to his room. He opened the door to see Sheridan sitting on his bed. Her arms were curled around her legs and her head was resting on her knees. She wasn't looking at him, but out the window and she didn't turn when he came in the room. He knew as soon as he saw her that she had found out he had gotten married. Sheridan didn't hear Luis enter the room. She was crying and couldn't stop thinking about Luis being married to someone else. Suddenly she felt his arms around her. She struggled to break free of his hold.

"Don't touch me!"

"Sheridan, please"

"What do you expect me to coming running into your arms??? I don't think so. Not after what you did"

"What I did? What about what you did?"

"I went back to a room with a guy I DIDN'T marry him!"

"Well I just found out I was married if that makes you feel any better"

"Oh much. The man I'm madly in love with is married to another woman. I feel terrific!"

"Well at least I didn't sleep with the first guy who hit on me"

"Yeah but my mistake is over with, you're still living with yours!"

"I don't remember anything. The only things I do remember is you flirting with that guy all night and drinking a lot"

"Well have fun sorting your mess out! I'm going to the airport to see if I can get an earlier flight" Sheridan stormed off. "Oh by the way your wife stopped by to say good morning"

"You met her?"

"Yes"

"Please Sheridan tell me her name, what she looks like, anything"

"You expect me to help you? Screw you Luis!"

And with that she slammed the adjoining door and locked it. As soon as she was safely in her room she began to sob and sank to her knees. The tears came and came. 'How can this be happening?' she screamed. She thought she was going to have to be the one to convince him to take her back. Now she didn't want to ever see him again. She let him believe she had slept with Alex to hurt him, but he didn't even seemed to be phased by it. She picked herself off the floor and forced herself to pack. This didn't stop her from continuing to cry. She finally had everything in her suitcases and walked out the door for the last time. All Luis knew of his blushing bride was that she was a fitness instructor. He just couldn't get Sheridan out his mind. He saw badly he hurt and would to do anything to take her pain away. But she had hurt him too by sleeping with that guy, not that was an excuse for what he had done. He walked blindly into the gym hoping that this woman would come to him when she noticed him. He saw that there was a class being held and the woman conducting the class just started to wave at him. He was hoping that was her. He didn't know quite what to tell her or how she would react. He waited outside for a couple of minutes and then the woman came and gave him a hug.

"Hi honey" just then another woman came out of the gym.

"Nice workout Amelia"

"See you tomorrow Crystal"

'Amelia that's her name' Luis thought to himself. That was one less thing he had to worry about.

"Amelia we need to talk"

"What's wrong sweetie you look upset" he hated she was using terms of endearment for him.

"Um…well…I…"

"Just spit it out Luis"

"I'm in love with someone else. I want an annulment" he finally just blurted out.

"I was waiting for this"

"You're not upset with me?"

"No I just wanted to see you squirm. I bet you only know my name because you just heard it"

"Well actually, that's true"

"You passed out right after you kissed the bride. I had some of the security guards take you back to your room"

"So nothing happened between us?"

"No Luis, you can tell you girlfriend we didn't consummate this marriage. That was your girlfriend in you room this morning right?"

"She was"

"Do you want me to go tell her what really happened?"

"Thanks for the offer but don't bother. She wasn't exactly the faithful girlfriend last night"

"Oh, I'm sorry Luis. But I do have some good news. I have the annulment papers right here. Just sign them and you're a bachelor again" she handed him a pen and he signed on the bottom line.

"Thanks Amelia" he kissed he on the cheek.

"Have a nice life Luis" she said as he walked out the door.

Luis gathered his belongings and headed for the airport. Sheridan was already there trying to plead with the clerk to let her on a earlier flight, but they were all booked. She was told she could be put on standby but the chances of her getting on were very slim. She decided to save her energy and just find her terminal and wait for her own flight. She bought a newspaper and started to read through the pages. There wasn't much happening in the world. Sheridan was fine and sufficiently calmed herself down until she came across the locality section. On the headline in bold print was 'Harmony Hero Weds James's Employee.' This caused the tears to come back, fought them but a few escaped and trickled down her cheek. She was startled when she saw a hand reached out to her with a handkerchief in it. She looked up and saw Luis standing in front of her. She took the handkerchief from him and he sat down across from her. She wiped her tears and stared at him. Neither of them spoke of word the just held a sad glare. They didn't know what to say to each other. Both felt the need to apologize but felt betrayed at the same time. They didn't know where to start. Then the flight attendant announced the boarding of first class costumers. Sheridan stood up and Luis followed her lead.

"Thank you" she tried to hand back his handkerchief.

"Keep it"

Neither could even force a smile anymore. Sheridan went to the gate and boarded the plane. Luis waited for his row to be called. In the mean time he took out a piece of paper and a pen and began to write as fast as he could. Then he too boarded the plane. As soon as he got on the plane his and her eyes met again. Theirs never left each other's as Luis walked back towards coach. At the last moment Luis handed Sheridan the piece of paper and continued back. Without reading it Sheridan crumpled it up and put it in the seat pocket in front of her.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 5:

The plane took off and they were at cruising altitude before she even thought about the note again. Against her better judgment she dug it out and forced herself to read it.

Sheridan,
I needed to tell you what I found out this afternoon. Apparently I passed out at the altar and was carried off to bed by a security guard or two. Other than marrying Amelia nothing happened. I'm sorry I hurt you, but you hurt me too.
Luis

Sheridan couldn't believe what she just read. Although she thought that Luis would have slept with Amelia if he hadn't passed out she was too happy to care. The fasten seatbelt light went off and she headed back to find Luis. She needed to tell him nothing happened with her and Alex. She passed through the curtain and stared throughout the cabin looking for Luis. She spotted him in the aisle seat in about the middle of the plane. She walked over to him, but as she got closer she noticed he was asleep. She got to his row and kneeled on the ground in the aisle. She smiled at the elderly couple that was looking at her curiously. Her grin then turned slyer as she leaned over and kissed Luis sweetly on the lips. Luis quickly awoke and pulled away from Sheridan. He wondered what the hell she thought she was doing.

"What are you doing Sheridan?"

"We need to talk"

"That was talking?"

"Well I had to think of some way to get your attention" they both genuinely smiled for a moment until Luis found his anger again.

"You got it" he said coldly. "Now go back to your seat"

"We need to talk"

"There isn't anything to talk about"

"Yes there is! Please let me explain"

"Save you breath"

"What am I supposed to pass you a note like we are in middle school? There is something you need to know!"

They were both yelling and the whole cabin had turned to watch them. Sheridan took off Luis's seat belt, grabbed his arm and dragged him to the back of the plane. She pushed him into the bathroom and locked the door. They were face to face in a room about as big as a shower stall. Their faces were inches apart and they continued their screaming match.

"Luis I did NOT sleep with that guy last night! I only went with him because you were ignoring me and letting all those women touch you!"

"I only did that because I saw that guy flirting with you!"

"You got married to a bimbo!"

"I told you I DON'T remember that! If you remember I asked YOU to marry me and you said NO!"

"You know I didn't say that because I don't love you!"

"Well I love you too!"

"How long are we going to yell at each other before you kiss me?" Sheridan said with the rage still in her voice.

"About this long"

Luis closed what little space between them. They heard cheers coming from inside the cabin. They didn't realize the walls were so thin, but then again it wouldn't have mattered. They both stared to laugh, but that was short lived because they caught each other's eyes and their lips met again. After about a half an hour of intense lip action they realized they better stop before they became part of the mile high club, which neither really wanted. The stared into each other's eyes for a moment but then Luis noticed the happiness drain out of Sheridan's. He took her hands and gave her a look of concern.

"What's wrong Sheridan?"

"You're still married" she said sadly.

"No I'm not. It was annulled this morning"

"Really?" her eyes began to sparkle again.

"Really"

He gave her a quick kiss and opened the bathroom door. The whole plane and turned at them and they both became very embarrassed. The flight attendant announced that everyone must return to their seats for landing. Luis took Sheridan's hand and led her down the cabin aisle. Luis sat down in his seat still holding on to Sheridan's hand. As he sat the plane hit a bit of turbulence. Sheridan was thrown into Luis's lap and the looked at each other and smiled. She started to get up but again the plane shook causing her to fall back into his arms. This time before he let her get up he pulled her close to him and gave tight but gentle hug and kissed her on the forehead. Being close him gave her goose bumps and sent chills through her body. She was glad they weren't fighting anymore and so was he. More than anything they wanted just to be in each other's arms. The flight attendant came by and politely asked Sheridan to return to her seat seeing that she wasn't planning on moving anytime soon. Sheridan got up again and yet again the plane shook, but more violently this time. It was like something on someone was telling Sheridan not to leave Luis. The shaking wasn't stopping either. Luis pushed Sheridan into the empty seat across the aisle and told her to buckle her safety belt. The oxygen masks sprung from their compartments. The pilot instructed everyone to put them on because the turbulence was quite intense but he also said that this was just a precaution. They began their descent into Harmony and the shaking continued. The children were crying and most of the people let out screams here and there. The lights flickered on and off until they completely shut off leaving the cabin in total darkness. Luis reached across the aisle and grabbed Sheridan hand he squeezed hard not willing to let go of her. Suddenly the plane jolted and was plummeting faster to the ground. The pilot came back on the speakers told them that the turbulence had caused three of their engines to malfunction leaving them with one working engine. They were far enough in their dissent that they would be able to land, but it would be rough. He warned that this was a very dangerous situation. He also instructed everyone to tuck their heads in their knees and cover their heads with their arms, he said the oxygen was not needed. Sheridan and Luis squeezed the hand on the other and did what they were told. Both in the instructed position they looked over at each other and mouthed the words 'I love you.' They wanted to be next to each other, to able to lock their hands together. There always seemed to be something between them, keeping them from being together. The pilots did the best they could but with only one engine the plane hit the ground lopsided. The wing on Luis's side of the plane caught the ground causing the plane to turn towards the right and head off the main runway. The pilots slammed on the brakes as the cabins were filled with screams. The plane began to slow but it hit the edge of another piece of runway causing the plane to swing violently back to the left right into the nose of a plane awaiting take off. The nose of the other plane pierced their plane splitting in two. This caused their plane to stop dead in its tracks. The aerial view of the two planes looked like a T. Sheridan and Luis's plane was split right behind the entrance door, directly in first class. They were rescued from their plane and brought into the terminal were they had doctors and medical staff looking after everyone. The pilots of both planes were killed as well as 9 passengers from their flight. Both Sheridan and Luis had escaped the accident with only bruises and minor cuts. Luis had gotten a blanket and flung it over both him and Sheridan as they sat and waited to be questioned. Sheridan sat in shock, she hadn't said a word since getting off the plane. Luis just put his arm around her and pulled her into his arms. She threw her arms around his waist and buried her head in his chest. He stoked her hair with his free hand. Tears began to pour fiercely from Sheridan's eyes. This was the first sign of any emotion since they got off the plane.

"Luis that could have been me"

"Shh. You're safe. It wasn't you Sheridan"

"Yeah but it was supposed to be. I would have been in first class if the turbulence hadn't kept throwing me in your lap"

"It wasn't our time Sheridan. The big guy was looking out for us. We were lucky"

"Yeah but all those people. Why did they have to die?"

"He works in mysterious ways Sheridan. Maybe this was his warning to us not to take each other for granted"

"Quite the warning don't you think?"

"Well it worked for me. I'm never going to be as stupid as I was last night. You are never leaving my side again Miss Crane" the fear began to drain from her eyes and they began to sparkle again.

"I wouldn't have it any other way Officer" they kissed lightly on the lips but both had bruised faces and ended it quickly. Realizing that if he stayed next to Sheridan Luis wouldn't want to stop kissing her he got up for some coffee.

"Do you want something to drink Sheridan? I'm going to get some coffee"

"A coffee would be great, thanks"

"Don't go anywhere"

"I won't"

Sheridan sat back and watched CNN on the airport television while Luis went to get their drinks. Luis walked into a coffee shop and waited in line. It seemed like everyone had the same idea. He finally reached the head of the line ordered two coffees, grabbed some sugar packets and stirrers, and started to walk out of the coffee shop. With a cup in both hands Luis walked back into the terminal just as someone was running by. The runner smacked right into Luis causing the hot coffee to fly across the terminal. Luckily no one got in its path as the coffee sprayed on the floor. Luis looked up and was poised to yell at the guy, but then he found out who it was.

"Sam?"

"Luis! God I'm sorry but you're alright" Sam gave Luis a manly hug, just enough to show he cared, but not so much that he showed too much affection.

"Yeah, I'm fine. Just some bumps and bruises. I was pretty lucky though"

"I'll say. So how are you holding up? You look pretty good"

"I was a bit shaken up, but I'm fine now. I just thank god it wasn't my time"

"I'm surprised Luis"

"At what Sam?"

"That you're not falling apart"

"Why should I be?"

"Because of Sheridan"

"What?"

"Luis I thought you loved her. I can't believe you're taking her death so well"

Sheridan continued to watch CNN while she waited for Luis. They were going over the sports scores and Sheridan let her mind wander because that stuff didn't interest her. Suddenly the anchor man came across the screen. She listened intently as he started to talk. "This just in, there has been plane crash in a small the small New England town of Harmony. The crash involved two airplanes killing the pilots of both planes. The crash also killed nine passengers. Among the presumed dead is Sheridan Crane, daughter of billionaire tycoon Alistair Crane. Stay tuned for more coverage"

They showed an aerial view of the two planes. Sheridan's jaw dropped to the floor. They thought she was dead. Since all the passengers in first class had been killed the must have assumed that she was one of them. She got up and hurried down the terminal to find Luis. She saw Luis talking to Sam and ran over to them. Sam almost dropped to the floor when he saw Sheridan.

"Sheridan, you're …" Sam gasped.

"Alive, yes I know"

"What did I miss?" Luis questioned.

"Luis they think I'm dead"

"Who does?"

"Everyone it was on CNN. How can they report something like this without proof?"

"Sheridan I was just outside. The bodies are in bad shape, there is no way to tell who is who. The must have assumed you were one of them, you did have a first class ticket" Sam stated. "I'm glad to see you're alright"

"Thanks Sam. Luis I have to go call Ethan, he has to know I'm alright"

"Wait. I'm going to find an officer to take our statement then you can go tell him in person. He is going to want to see you anyways"

"Your right Luis, please ask them to hurry" Luis rushed off leaving Sheridan with Sam. Sam watched as Sheridan followed Luis with her eyes until he was out of view only then did she even realize Sam was in the universe.

"So I take it you two didn't tie the knot" Sam said trying to make small talk.

"You're right Sam, we didn't, but Luis did" Sheridan said sadly.

"What?"

"Lets just say jealousy and alcohol don't make a good combination"

"On no"

"Oh yes, we didn't spend last night together, far from it actually. But both of us passed out before we could do something we would regret"

"But Luis is married"

"Not anymore, he had it annulled"

"And you two?"

"More in love than ever"

"Nothing is ever uncomplicated with you two, is it?"

"At least it's never boring"

"I'd say"

Luis came back with an officer and they straighten the whole situation out. Sam offered to drive Sheridan and Luis to the mansion to find Ethan and the rest of the family. Luis called his house and found out that his mother was working at the mansion so he would go there too. He told Miguel and Theresa that he was alright and he would see them soon and that if his mother called to tell her he was coming to see her. At the Crane mansion Pilar and Gwen were trying to console Ethan. He was in hysterics. He threw what ever he could grab and pushed anything over that was movable. When he finished the living area looked like a tornado had hit it. Ethan finally say down on the couch, which was the only thing left standing, and broke down in tears. Gwen and Pilar sat on either sides of him and did their best to comfort him. Pilar tried with all her might to console Ethan, but she couldn't help but be a little happy that Luis was alive. Still she was also deeply saddened by Sheridan's death. Her emotions were mixed. Sheridan, Luis, and Sam arrived at the mansion and walked into the foyer.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 6:

Ethan fiercely wiped away his tears. The anger had resurged in him. He stood up and started kicking anything he could. Pilar and Gwen tried to get him to sit back down, but he kept pushing them away. He picked up a paperweight that used to rest on the desk and hurled it at the window, shattering it. Luis, Sheridan, and Sam heard all the commotion and Luis told Sheridan to wait there while he and Sam made sure it was safe. Pilar caught a glimpse of Luis and ran to give him a huge hug. She kissed him on the cheek and said a prayer to God. She was happy to see him alive. Ethan however was less than thrilled. When he turned around to see Luis standing in his living room fire burned in his eyes. Pilar backed away from Luis as she saw Ethan angrily marching towards him. Ethan stopped inches away from Luis and stood there a moment before he spoke. Pilar, Gwen and Sam stood back and watched.

"You?" Ethan asked in a hateful tone.

"Why did you get to live?" Luis stood there as Ethan spat at him, he could see the anguish in Ethan's eyes. Suddenly Ethan became so over come with anger that he punched Luis square across the jaw. Luis shook it off. Sheridan looked in and was devastated seeing Ethan like that.

"You're going to regret that Crane" Luis announced.

"No I won't. The only thing I regret is that you got to live and Sheridan had to die!" Ethan swung at Luis again but this time Luis caught Ethan's arm and twisted him around, keeping Ethan's arm pinned behind his back.

"Let me go officer!"

Luis didn't say anything he just led Ethan into the foyer. At first Ethan didn't see Sheridan but when he whipped around determined to hit Luis again. He saw her standing there against the wall. He let out loud gasp and Pilar, Gwen and Sam came to the edge of the foyer. Gwen and Pilar couldn't see Sheridan and wondered what Ethan saw. They stepped into the foyer and followed his stare, which never left Sheridan, and were shocked to see her alive. Sheridan noticed that all eyes were on her and decided to break the silence.

"Hi everyone" she said nervously.

"Sheridan? You're alive?" Ethan began to cry again, but tears of joy this time. He ran over to her and gave he the biggest hug anyone could imagine. Gwen and Pilar soon joined in the hug and had Sheridan surrounded.

"Hey…um…guys do you think you could loosen your grip. I can't breathe here. I'm not going to disappear I promise" Ethan, Pilar and Gwen let go and backed away from her. She let out a big sigh as she caught her breath. Luis stared at Ethan with a cocky look on his face.

"Well Ethan, I'm waiting" Luis said.

"Waiting for what?"

"An apology. I deserve one"

"You are one cocky bastard you know that?"

"ETHAN!" Sheridan interjected. "If wasn't for that cocky ba…breathtaking gorgeous man" Sheridan saved herself from calling Luis a bastard. "I wouldn't be here right now

""He saved your life again?"

"Well in a way. I was sitting on his lap in coach when the trouble started" Sheridan and Luis both smiled as they remembered how good it felt to be in each other's arms. "I didn't have time to get back to my seat so Luis pushed me into one across from him" Ethan turned from Sheridan and looked at Luis.

"Luis, for saving Sheridan again I am eternally grateful. And I am sorry I punched you. I was angry at God for taking Sheridan away too soon and you jus happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time"

"Apology accepted" the two shook hands and Sheridan smiled at them both.

"Ethan where are Julian and Ivy. I want to tell them I'm ok"

"Father is in the study talking to Grandfather and Mother has been out all day. I'm sure she hasn't even heard about the crash yet. She has been preoccupied with something lately" Sam had a look of grimace come across his face as he heard Ethan's last statement.

"I'm going to go see him"

"Do you want me to go with you Sheridan"

"No Luis if Julian saw you here he would go ballistic. You're not exactly his favorite person"

"Ok. Hurry back" they looked deep in each other's eyes and all the desire had returned. They kissed lightly on the lips and Sheridan disappeared down the hall. Luis noticed that all eyes were now on him.

"What?" he asked innocently.

"So I take it things went well for you in two in Las Vegas" Ethan asked as the walked back into the living room. Luis and Sam chuckled as they picked chair up off the ground to sit on. Pilar went and got everyone some coffee, while they a waited Sheridan's return.

"Do you want the Reader's Digest version or the full version?" Ethan and Gwen looked at each other and gave indifferent facial expressions back to one another.
"Give us the Reader's Digest version. Sheridan shouldn't bee too long"

"Alright here goes. No questions until I am finished ok?" Everyone shook their heads in agreement. "We both got to Las Vegas not knowing the other was there. We found out we had adjoining suites. And spent the first day and evening together. Then there was a phantom mouse and a lot of room service. The second night we went down to the casino and got extremely drunk. She went back to another guy's room, I got married. Then the plane crashed end of story" Gwen and Ethan had shock and confusion written all over their faces. Luis never changed his tone of voice while retelling the story, he said it very matter of factly.

"Ok wait" Gwen managed to say though she was in total shock. "Go back to the part before the crash. You got married?" Just then Pilar walked back in with their coffee. She stopped dead in her tracks and Ethan rushed to take the coffee from her before she dropped it.

"Luis, you and Sheridan got married?"
"No mama"

"Oh thank God Luis, you scared me for a minute"

"I think you should sit down mama" Pilar did sitting next to Gwen on the couch. "I didn't marry Sheridan, but I did get married" he retold the story he had just told everyone else. "I had the marriage annulled this morning. It was a mistake, a huge mistake"

"Dios mio Luis. You will join me in church soon I hope"

"Yes mama"

"Luis, I'm still confused" Ethan interrupted.

"About what Ethan?"

"How Sheridan ended up in your lap on the plane or are even talking to each other after what you both did"

"Fortunately I passed out at the altar and was carried to my room by security guards and the guy that took her back to his room didn't take advantage of her and just let her crash there. Believe me we did fight, but we got it straightened out on the plane, just in time for it to crash"

Luis looked at his watch and realized Sheridan had been gone a long time. It had been roughly an hour. He excused himself and went to look for her, the hell with Julian. He left the other four to gossip and try and piece together what he just told them. Sheridan walked down the hall to the study. She was about to push the door open when she heard her father and brother talking about her. Wondering what they had to say now that she was 'gone' she opted to stand outside the door and eavesdrop. Lucky for her Julian had now closed the door tightly, he left it open a crack. She leaned against the wall and listened as her father and brother chatted about her death.

"So Julian how is Ethan taking the news?"

"He was created quite the ruckus earlier but he has seemed to calm down a bit now. I'm sure he destroyed the sitting room"

"Its not like we can't afford to replace it. Let that be a lesson to us though"

"A lesson father?"

"Yes, not to get to emotionally attached to people. It can cause us to act out in inappropriate ways"

"I agree"

"Now lets look on the bright side of things"

"Ah yes, now we won't have to worry about Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald. He should be too heartbroken to bother us anymore"

"I wouldn't be so sure about that Julian. I have been informed that he was married last night. And not to your late sister"

"So he still posses a threat"

"Yes but a small one, without Sheridan's help he is nothing. We don't have need to worry about him right now though"

"What bright side were you talking about father?"

"With Sheridan gone I don't see how anyone can take down the Crane Empire"

"How do you figure?"

"I've always told you that Sheridan was the weak link in our family. Now she is gone and the chain is faultless, unless you are keeping things from me"

"No father of course not" Julian lied.

"And do you know what the best part about this is?"

"No, but I'm sure you'll tell me"

"We didn't have anything to do with her death. We didn't even have to get our hands dirty on this one. If Sheridan had tried to go against us, I would have not hesitated to quiet her, but now we don't have to worry anymore. It is all too perfect"

Sheridan stood outside the library in shock. She couldn't believe what she just heard. Tears began to stream down her face, but no noise came from her body. She had to get away from that door before Julian knew she was there. She retraced her steps to the living room. About halfway back though she couldn't go any further. She leaned against the wall and sank to the ground. She buried her head in her knees and the tears flowed freely. She was still quite silent though. No one would have even known she was there. She was lucky no staff came down that hallway while she was there. By the time Luis came to find her. Sheridan had stopped crying. She was no starring at the wall in front of her. She didn't move her position as Luis sat down besides her. She was in shock. He called her name many times before she responded. She put her finger to her lips trying to quiet Luis. He was so confused. He wanted to know what happened.

"Julian…Alistair…" she began to cry again. "They don't care…that I'm dead"

"They told you that?" Luis became very protective of Sheridan and furious with her family.

"No. I heard them talking" she took deep breathes trying to calm down. "I was standing out side the door"

"You know Sheridan you have to break your habit of doing that" they both forced an ever so slight smile. "Come on, let's get you out of here. You don't need to be treated like this"

Luis stood up and brought Sheridan to her feet. He steadied her as they began to walk back to the others. She didn't have any strength left in her body and her legs kept buckling. Realizing how distraught she was Luis picked her up into his arms. She felt so safe there. She buried her head in his chest and began to relax. Luis carried Sheridan back into the living room. They all saw Sheridan and gasped and tried to run over to Luis, but he was already heading for the door.

"Sam we need to leave NOW!"

"Ok Luis" Sam got his coat and rushed after Luis.

"Luis what happened?" Ethan demanded to know.

"Ethan, I'll have mama fill you in tomorrow. Right now everyone just needs to forget we were ever here. As far as you know, Sheridan is dead. Do you all understand?"

They all nodded but were worried and confused. Luis rushed Sheridan to the car where Sam already had it running and ready to go. Luis gently set Sheridan in the back seat and sat don beside her. She rested her head in his lap and he stroked her hair. He traced her face with his fingers and bent down and kissed her on the cheek. He told Sam to go his house as quickly as he could. They arrived at Luis's house and Sam helped Luis get Sheridan out of the car. Sam opened the doors for Luis and they walked in the house. Miguel and Charity sat in the kitchen and were scared when they saw them. Sam stayed behind to try and explain things to Miguel and Charity, but he didn't know exactly what was going on either. Luis disappeared up the stairs and into his room. He placed Sheridan gently on his bed and helped her off with her coat. He noticed that he clothes didn't look to comfortable to sleep in so he dug through his drawers found an old high school t-shirt and pair of shorts. She sat on his bed staring out the window. She barely realized that he was undressing her and putting her in his clothes. Her stare didn't break from the window. He laid her down on the pillow and tucked her in. He kissed her forehead and turned to leave. Sheridan came back from the dark place she was and grabbed Luis's arm. He sat down next to her on his bed. She sat up and flung her arms around his shoulders and squeezed him tight.

"Thank you" she whispered. She loosened her grip and pulled back away from him. She left her hands resting on his shoulders and glared into his eyes.

"I'd do anything for you" he said sweetly. Sheridan knew he would too and she couldn't resist kissing him passionately on the lips. He leaned forward causing her to lean back. She was lying on the bed again. He placed his hands on her shoulders and sat up, this way she couldn't follow him.

"Sheridan you need to get some rest"

"You're leaving?"
"I'll be right down stairs. I can be here in seconds if you need me. I have to talk to Sam and try and figure out what to do next. I don't know if you remember that I told Ethan, Gwen and Mama to act like we were never there. Julian and Alistair still think you're dead. Some how I am going to make them pay for what they did to you" He walked into the doorway and turned back to her. "Hey don't forget I love you Sheridan"

"I love you too" she whispered as she closed her eyes and feel asleep. Luis walked back down stairs to join Sam, Miguel and Charity at the table. Sam had a cup of coffee waiting for him.

"Ok so what was that all about Luis?" Sam asked.

"Those bastards!" Luis looked at Charity and became embarrassed that he would act this way in front of a girl. "I'm sorry" Charity sensed that she should leave the guys alone to talk.

"Luis do you mind if I go check on Sheridan?"

"No, I'd really like that Charity. Thank you"

"No problem" she got up and left the room.

"Okay bro tell us what's going on" Miguel was growing impatient and wanted to know the whole story.

"Sheridan overheard Julian and Alistair saying that they were glad she was dead and out of the way"

"They said that?" Miguel was shocked that people could say that about their own family. Luis nodded as he took a sip of coffee.

"The Cranes only care about their precious Empire" Sam said with disgust in his voice.
"What are you going to do Luis?" Miguel asked.

"I don't know, but they are going to pay for hurting her"

"Wow you really love her don't you?" Miguel said innocently. Luis thought of her sleeping in his bed, in his clothes and smiled from ear to ear.

"Yeah I do Miguel" They all sat and pondered on what Luis's next step should be.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 7:

Charity walked up to Luis's bedroom door and slowly pushed it open. She didn't see Sheridan in bed. She opened the door further to see Sheridan peering out the window. It had started to rain and Sheridan was tracing the raindrops on the window with her fingers. Charity saw how lost Sheridan looked. Sheridan always looked so strong and confident, this was a totally different person. She looked frail and scared. Charity knocked softly on the wall but Sheridan must not have heard. She took at blanket off the bed and wrapped it over Sheridan's shoulders.

"Oh Charity, hello. I didn't hear you come in"

"How are you doing?"

"Not good" Sheridan didn't know why but felt comfortable with Charity there was something about her. She knew she couldn't hide her feelings from Charity.

"You look so lost. What are you thinking about?"

"I just can't get over how cold and callous my family really is. I knew they were capable of a lot but I thought deep down they had hearts. Now I know I was wrong"

"Not everyone has pure hearts like you. I'm sorry that they hurt you"

"Thank you"

"But you know what?"

"What?"
"Stop feeling sorry for yourself. I know that deep down there is a strong woman inside of you. One who wouldn't take this sitting down. I know you're a fighter Sheridan. Don't let them walk all over you" Sheridan looked at Charity with disbelief. Charity always seemed to know so much.

"You know Charity you're right. If I sit here and sulk, they've won. They don't know I'm still alive, but when they do they better watch out. I'm going to hit them just when they aren't looking" Sheridan got a sly grin on her face.
"Sheridan you aren't going to do something …" Sheridan cut her off.

"Don't worry. I'm not going to do much, just find out what they've down wrong and let them get what is coming to them. I just need to give them a little nudge, but they will fall on their own"

"Be careful, I'm worried that this won't turn out as you hope" This scared Sheridan, Charity had an eerie way of seeing the future.

"Tell me something Charity, what would you do if you were in my shoes?"

"You want my advice?"

"Yes, very much so"
"But I'm just a teenager, what do I know? You should really ask someone who has more life experience. I don't even remember most of mine"

"But I trust you. Please I need to know what you think I should do"

"Okay, but you might not like it"

Luis, Sam, and Miguel sat around the table trying to figure out what to do about Sheridan's situation. They couldn't figure anything out. If Sheridan went and told them she was alive it would put her life in danger if she pursued her relationship with Luis. Luis didn't want to give up on Sheridan. He loved her, he couldn't stand to be away from her. But he couldn't keep her hidden in his bedroom for the rest of her life, she wouldn't be happy. She could move somewhere else, but there was always a chance of one of the Cranes spies seeing her. Plus then she wouldn't be with him. He couldn't go with her because he loved his family too much to just leave them. Luis's head was pounding. He seemed to be going in circles. Always ending up with him losing Sheridan and that was just not acceptable. Sam looked at his watch. It was getting late, Grace would wonder where he was if he didn't go home soon.

"Look Luis, I need to be getting home, Call me if you figure anything out. I'll think about things and let you know if anything comes up. Just don't do anything illegal"

"I won't Sam. Thanks to for the ride"

"No problem. Miguel when Charity come down will you send her home"

"Don't worry I'll walk her home"

"Thank Miguel. Good luck Luis"

"Bye Sam" Sam then left.

"Miguel what am I going to do?"

"You're in a tough spot bro"

"I have to figure out something and fast. I need to protect Sheridan"

"Luis, I know you don't want to hear this but maybe you can't protect her"

"I have to!"
"The only way I see that you can protect her is to let her go"

"I can't! I love her too much to live my life without her"

"Well you might have to. How would you feel if Sheridan's family found out she was alive and still seeing you? They wouldn't like it. And Sheridan said she heard them say they would get rid of her if she got in the way. Could you live with the guilt if she died?"

"There has to be another way Miguel" Luis became teary eyed because he knew his brother was right. He had no way to take down the Crane Empire and unless someone did Sheridan would be in danger.

"But then again what do I know Luis. I'm just a teenager right?"

"A very perceptive one" he gave Miguel a hug.

"I know you're right. I just hope something will happen to change the situation. I need a miracle"

Charity and Sheridan had both moved to Luis's bed. They were sitting on the edge facing each other. Sheridan got chills from the face of discontent Charity was showing. She wasn't sure if she wanted to hear what Charity had to say anymore.

"The way I see it the only way you can overcome this is to tell Luis the truth"

"What do you mean? I have never lied to Luis"

"No, but you haven't told him everything either. Have you?" Sheridan thought about that night. She wondered how Charity would know about that.

"You know about that night?" she questioned nervously.

"No. I don't know anything. I just feel that the key to your problem is the truth. It will set you free"

"I don't think I can tell him. He will hate me. I couldn't live with myself for hurting him"

"If he loves you he will forgive you"

"How do you know so much?"

"It's like I said, I don't know anything. I just get these feelings or visions and sometimes they are true"
"Sometimes?"

"Okay for the most part they all come true" Charity noticed Luis's alarm clock. "Wow, I didn't notice how late it was. I need to get home"

"Thank you for your advice"

"You're welcome. I hope everything works out for you"

"Me too"

"Goodnight"

Charity then left the room leaving Sheridan to her thoughts. How was she going to tell Luis she thinks she killed his father? She wasn't even sure if she really did. There were so many missing pieces to that night. She remembered the letter opener and hiding in the corner and then he memories flashed forward to having blood on her hands and a body being put into a coffin. There were so many holes to fill. If Luis hated her for what she did so might as well be dead, because without him nothing mattered. Still there was something about Charity. Sheridan believed in her ability to see things. Charity said the truth will set you free. Sheridan hoped she was right. Luis said his goodbyes to Charity and Miguel and he told Miguel not to take too long. He walked back up his room. Charity said she was still awake. This was going to be the hardest thing he ever did. He was going to tell her that for her safety he couldn't see her anymore. He didn't want to, but he didn't think there was anything else to do. He had to protect her and if the only way for her to be alive was to be without him that's what he needed to do. He went into his room and saw her sitting on his bed. She smiled at him, but there was definitely something wrong with her. He could tell. Luis walked over and sat next to Sheridan. He took his hand and brushed it across her cheek. It twisted his insides to know that he wasn't going to be able to touch her anymore. Sheridan smiled genuinely his touch made her feel safe and loved. She knew she had to tell him the truth. Keeping things from him were just too hard. He deserved to know. He did some much for her, she needed to do this for him.

"Luis I need to tell you something"

"Before you say anything Sheridan, I have something I need to say"

"Luis, you look sad. What's going on? What happened?"

"Nothing happened. Yet. Just let me get through this alright?"

"Alright. I'm listening"

"This isn't easy for me to say, but it is something that needs to be said" 'Funny I feel the same way' Sheridan thought. "The way things are I don't think there is any other way to do this. Julian and Alistair are going to find out you're alive sooner or later, and they won't be too happy you have been with me. They might even hurt you, maybe kill you. And I couldn't live with the guilt if they hurt you because of me. Either way you look at it I'm going to lose you. This way you get the chance to live"
"Luis what?"

"Shh…Let me finish. I love you so much to say this but…" Sheridan interrupted him. "Then don't! Don't say it Luis. I won't let you! You are not getting rid of me" she stood up and looked at him angrily. The lost soul she had been for the last hours was gone. Sheridan Crane was back. "Don't I get a choice in this? Life isn't living without you! I'm a fighter and we are going to get through this" Luis stood up and without saying a word he pulled her to him and kissed her passionately. The fire burned inside them both. He never thought being stubborn was a good quality until now.

"Wow you can still take my breath away Luis" he still didn't say anything just brought his lips back to hers. She responded hungrily. Before either of them knew it the lying on the bed engulfed with the emotion for each other. Out of nowhere Sheridan realized she needed to tell Luis the truth. She pulled herself away from him.

"Luis before we get to caught up this I still need to tell you something"

"Are you sure it can't wait" Luis said seductively as he went to kiss her on the neck. She stopped his advance by sticking out her hand and pressing his forehead back. "Ok you're serious. I guess it is my turn to be worried" Luis said with Sheridan's hand still on his forehead.

"Yeah I'm not sure where to begin"
"Just tell me"

"Okay here goes. You remember the night your father disappeared? Well that was also my last night in Harmony"

"You were sent to boarding school the next day?"

"No Luis, I was sent to a hospital"

"A Hospital? Were you sick?" "In a way. I used to have awful nightmares when I was a little girl"

"I've seen first hand the nightmares you've had"
"Yeah that was nothing compared to what it used to be. There was one nightmare in particular. This one started the night before I left. It is a bit hazy but this is what I remember. I was in the living room and I heard some men talking. I was so scared of them, I picked up a letter opener and hid in the corner. The next thing I remember is having blood on my hands and seeing a body put in a coffin. Luis I don't think this was just a nightmare. I think this actually happened" she paused and looked at him for a moment. He was showing no signs of emotion. "Do you know what I'm getting at Luis?" he looked more confused than ever. "I think that you're father's death and me leaving the next morning is no coincidence. I think I killed Martin"
"But you don't remember actually killing him"

"No"

"And there is no proof this ever happened?" she shook her head no. "Were there nightmares before this?"

"Ethan said he used to hear me screaming at night all the time. That is why he didn't come find me that night"

"Then I think you have an overactive imagination" Luis smiled at her.

"Luis don't joke around at a time like this"

"I'm not. The cop in me is telling me that without proof and the existence of previous nightmares this was just a coincidence. I don't see how anyone as sweet and loveable as you could kill anyone"

"I was so scared you were going to hate me"
"I could never hate you"

They hugged one another and both were relieved they told each other what they were feeling. They leaned back and pulled the covers over each other. They started to drift asleep in each other's arms. When Luis felt that Sheridan was asleep he began to get up and leave the room. He walked to Miguel's room and opened the door and saw him sleeping soundly. He repeated this process checking on his mother and sister. They all were slumbering peacefully. Luis wasn't tired anymore. He walked down to the kitchen and got himself a glass of water. He sat at the table wondering about what Sheridan had told him earlier. He told her that it was all a coincidence. But now he wasn't so sure. Nothing with the Crane's was ever just a coincidence. There wasn't any proof though and if there was he couldn't put Sheridan in jail or wherever they would put her. He still loved her but if she killed his father it would change things. How could he love someone that acted in such a violent way? Things began to piece together in Luis's mind. He always thought the Crane's had something to do with his father's disappearance, this confirmed his suspicions. He felt a lump form is his throat and a sinking feeling in his gut. Maybe Sheridan wasn't the person he thought she was.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 8:

Luis shook his head. What was he thinking? Sheridan was the same person she has always been. She was still the sweet, strong, yet vulnerable person he had fallen in love with. He didn't buy that Sheridan had anything to do with his father's death. How could a small girl have enough strength to kill a man with a letter opener? It didn't make sense. Julian and Alistair were hiding something he was sure of it. But what? And how was he going to piece the pieces together before they found out she was alive. Luis thought about how sweet Charity and Miguel were earlier. He saw how much in love they were and even though they were so young they had good advice to give. He was thankful that Charity went to talk to Sheridan. Charity must have said something to push Sheridan out of the lost place she was trapped in. Suddenly Luis had an idea. It had to work. He jumped out of the kitchen chair he had been sitting in and ran upstairs. He flung open the door and jumped on the bed. Sheridan's body bounced up and she opened her eyes and saw Luis kneeling next to her staring at her.

"Sheridan wake up!" Luis pleaded.

"Luis, what? What's going on?" Sheridan slowly sat up, shaking the sleep out of her head. She yawned and rubbed her eyes.

"I just thought of something"

"And it couldn't wait until morning?" her eyelids were heavy and caused her to blink.

"No. I want you to do something"

"What? You know I would do anything for you"

"I want you to talk with Dr. Watts tomorrow"

"Who is Dr. Watts?"

"Ok let me try and explain"

"I think that would be a good idea. But maybe we could go downstairs and get some coffee so I don't fall asleep"

"Good idea but if this works as I hope it will you'll be too excited to sleep"

Luis grabbed her arm and nearly dragged her down the stairs. She sat down at the kitchen table while he started a pot of coffee. She rested her head on the table as he waited for the coffee to finish. Finally Luis walked over to the table with two cups of hot caffeine filled coffee. But Sheridan had fallen back to sleep. She tried to call her name, but she still didn't respond. He put the coffee down on the table and knelt down besides her chair. He slowly lifted her head and brought his face to hers. He began to kiss her sweetly, but when she woke up she responded and the kiss quickly intensified. She thought it was a dream until she opened eyes and saw Luis inches from her with a cocky smile on his face.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to fall asleep but if I get to wake up like that I'm going to sleep more often"

"Funny" he sat across the table from her and pushed her a cup of coffee.

"Thank you. Okay so out with this brilliant idea of yours" she took a gulp from her cup.

"Okay. Now Dr. Watts works in the psychic ward of the hospital"

"You think I'm nuts too?" she couldn't believe he wanted her committed just like her father and Julian had done.
"No, you didn't let me finish. She's helping Charity to remember her past and one of the techniques they use is hypnosis. I thought maybe this would help you remember what actually happened that night, or if it was really just a dream. I would never commit you. I wouldn't be able to live if I didn't get to look in to those sparkling blue eyes of yours everyday" Luis reached both his hands over and she put hers in his.

"What if we find out I did kill your father?"

"That won't happen, you were just a young child. But if it turns out you did and Julian and Alistair covered it up they will be in more trouble than you would be. You were too young for charges to be brought against you. They however weren't. I don't blame you at all"
"Really?"

"Yes really" he squeezed her hands. "Now will you see Dr. Watts tomorrow?"

"What if someone sees me?"

"You're right, I'll ask Eve to try and have Dr. Watts come over here"

"Luis?"

"What?"

"What if I don't remember anything?"

"All I ask is that you try. I can't hurt. I just have this feeling though. It's going to work"

"So if I do remember then what?"

"Then you walk into your own funeral with a couple of FBI escorts and surprise your family"

"At my funeral?"

"Julian and Alistair are sure to both be there, and they won't be expecting it. There will be no place to run and you will have your life back!"

"This all sounds too perfect. I hope it works"

"It will!"

Luis stood up with his hands still connected to Sheridan's. She followed him up and he pulled her closer to him. They began to kiss intensely and passionately. Pilar walked into the kitchen unnoticed. She smiled as she stood in the doorway. Seeing the two of them like that made her heart melt. It made her think of the happier times with Martin. She cleared her throat and they both turned to see her standing there. Their faces became red and they had sly smiles plastered across their faces. Pilar walked into the room and poured herself a cup of coffee. The three of them sat down at the table. Sheridan and Luis sat next to each other. So close that they could have been sharing a chair. Luis still had a hold of one of Sheridan's hands under the table. He stroked her hand with his thumb and rested it on his knee.

"So what are you two doing up this early?" Pilar asked them.

"Early mama? I haven't gone to sleep yet. What time is it?"

"It's 5am. I'm glad you are awake though. What do you want me to tell Ethan when I see him at the mansion this morning?"

"Tell him he has to act as if I'm still dead. Oh and if you can have him go into my cottage and get some of my clothes that you can bring back home with you. Including one killer dress, a white one preferably"

"Do you mind telling me what's going on?"
"I think it is better if you don't know mama. I don't want you to have to lie too much for us. Just tell Ethan to do as he is doing and in due time he will understand why. Also tell him not to come over her to see Sheridan. We don't anyone to suspect anything"

"Luis please be careful. I don't want anything else to happen to you or Sheridan"

"We will mama. I promise"

"Now if you two excuse me I need to get ready for work. Enjoy your day together"

"We will thank you for everything Pilar" Pilar smiled and walked through the kitchen door.

"Now what do you say to us getting a little shut eye Sheridan?" They both stood up and Luis put his arm over Sheridan's shoulder.
"I think that's a great idea. You're just full of those tonight aren'tyou?"

"As always. Hold on I want to write a not to Miguel asking him to have Charity come over for when we wake up"

"Charity, why?"

"It's all part of the plan darling" he kissed her on the cheek and left a note to Miguel.

They both walked up to his bedroom and crawled back into bed. It didn't take them very long to fall asleep in each other's embrace. At about 11am Luis started to wake. He slowly opened his eyes and noticed that Sheridan was no longer in bed with him. He looked at the pillow and saw a piece of paper with his name on it. Without changing positions he picked up the piece of paper and started to read it.

Luis,
I didn't want to wake you, but I had to leave. I know my family hasn't been saintly but they are all I have. I needed to tell them I am alive.
Love, Sheridan

Luis was stunned. He couldn't believe Sheridan would go back to them after what she heard. He had to stop her. He just hoped she hadn't left long ago. He jumped out of bed causing him to turn the other direction. As soon as his feet hit the floor he stopped and his eyes nearly popped out of his head.

"Luis you are so gullible" Sheridan smirked.

"This wasn't real" he held the note up.

"Nope. Just thought I would keep the excitement in our relationship"

"If you wanted excitement you should have tried this"

Luis walked over to her and began to kiss her fiercely. They were so lost in their emotions for each other they forgot where they were and that there were other people in the house. All their inhibitions were lost and for the first time since their first time they made love. They laid arms still entwined together and gazed into each other's eyes. The desire had not disappeared. They were about to kiss again when they heard a knock at the door.

"Just a second" Luis yelled at the door. They both scrambled for clothes. They both put on the boxers and t-shirts from last night. Luis walked over to the door slowly, trying to get the dreamy look off his face, and opened it to see Miguel standing in front of him. "Hey bro, what took so long?" But then Miguel noticed the shirt Luis was wearing and a smug smile formed across his face.

"Hey Luis wasn't Sheridan wearing that shirt this morning?"

"I don't think so Miguel. I slept in it"
"No she was" Miguel teased. "I saw her when she came down for water this morning. I'm sure it was that shirt" Miguel tried his hardest not to laugh at his big brother squirming.

"Anyways, what did you want?" Luis said quickly changing the subject.

"Charity and I made you breakfast. Well it's more like lunch now but we figured you would be up by now"

"That was really nice of you two. We'll be right down" Luis shut the door and turned to Sheridan. "Okay that was a little awkward. I think we need to be a little more careful about where we do this next time. How can I tell him he should wait while I'm up stairs going at it? I need to remember to be a good role model"
"Luis I think he understands that the circumstances are different. He is still in high school and you're an adult. And you are a terrific role model! You put everything aside so you could take care of your family. Not many people could have done that and you run the youth center so children have a chance to fulfill their dreams. You are the best role model"

"Stop it, you're making me blush" he said sarcastically.

"Get used to me saying only the best about you, because it's all true"

"Yeah, yeah, yeah. Let's go get some food and start the day"

"I think we had a pretty good start already" she smiled seductively.

They both showered quickly and went downstairs and found Charity and Miguel waiting in the kitchen for them. Luis had put on a pair of jeans and a sweater and Sheridan had put her clothes from yesterday on. Pilar had washed them last night for her. She didn't even ask her to, she just did. As they ate Luis explained to them all what he had in mind for today. He told them he needed Charity to come over so that when Eve called and asked Dr. Watts to come over she could say it was urgent and Charity needed her. That way if the Cranes had spies at the hospital their tracks would be covered. He explained to Charity and Miguel that Dr. Watts could hopefully help Sheridan remember something that happened in her past. This would hopefully help Sheridan gain control over her life and she would be free from her father and brother. Charity called Dr. Russell and asked her if she could come talk to her. She told her there was important she wanted to talk about. She told him she was at the Lopez-Fitzgerald house not at home. The four of them waited for Eve's arrival. Eve didn't live too far away so soon there was a knock at the front door. Miguel answered it and had Eve come into the living room with him. Charity was sitting there waiting for them.

"Charity what seems to be the matter? You aren't having visions again are you?" she asked worriedly.

"No, Dr. Russell. I actually asked you here to help someone else, not me"

"Well who is this mystery person? Miguel?"

"No it's not Miguel. But just try not to be shocked when I tell you who it is. It will be quite a surprise"

"Just tell me Charity"

"Okay you guys can come in now" Charity yelled at the kitchen. Luis and Sheridan walked into the living room and as soon as Eve saw her she dropped her medical bag.

"I thought you were…"

"That's a popular misconception right now" Sheridan stated.

Luis and Sheridan asked Eve to sit down and they joined her. Having done their part Miguel and Charity went into the kitchen to study. Luis explained the whole situation to Eve and she was eager to help. She would do about anything to get back at the Cranes, at least this way she didn't have to do anything that would cause her conscience to act up. She called Dr. Watts and pleaded with her to come over. When Dr. Watts arrived they again explained the situation and she said she had time to help. Dr. Watts and Sheridan went into Luis's room so they could have some privacy. She had Sheridan lay on the bed and she was then put under hypnosis.

"Okay Sheridan I want you to know that you are in a safe place. Do you feel safe?"

"Yes"

"Good. Let's go back to the night before you were sent to Europe. What do you see?"

"I'm in the mansion. I can hear Julian arguing with someone, but I don't know whom. I'm really scared"

"Sheridan you are safe. No one can hurt you now, just try and remember what happens next"

"They start to fight. Julian breaks free and starts to head in my direction. I pick up a letter opener and hide in a corner"

"Okay good Sheridan, you're are doing great. What do you do with the letter opener?"
"I hold it tightly as the men continue to fight. They are coming in my direction. I close my eyes"

"Just try and remember what happens next Sheridan"

"I'm holding the letter opener pointing out and gets jammed into one of the man's legs. Blood gets all over the bottom of my dress"

"Which man is the letter opener stuck in Sheridan? Do you remember?"

"Yes. It was Julian. He was very angry to see me there"

"Do you remember who the other man is?"

"No. I can't see his face. It is too dark. He is always in the shadows"

"What does Julian do now?"
"He pulled the letter opener from his leg and used it and stabbed the other man. He killed him. The other man fell to the floor. I ran to Julian and put my hands on his wound to try and stop it from bleeding. Then I plead with my father that I didn't mean to hurt Julian. But he keeps telling me I did mean it. He keeps saying 'Yes you did. Yes you did'"

"It's okay Sheridan, I believe you. I don't think you meant to hurt your brother. What did you do after that?"
"I run to my room and quickly change into pajama's and wash my hands. I throw my dress in my secret hiding place. Where I kept all my treasures. I didn't want anyone to find it"

"Do you remember where the secret spot is?"

"Yes, it's in the back corner of my closet. There is a loose floorboard there. I stuffed the dress there and put the board back"

"Okay when I count to three, you are going to wake up and remember everything you just told me. 1…2…3"

"Oh my god! I didn't do it! Julian, he killed someone"
"Now Sheridan we don't know this for sure there is no proof and you said you had had previous nightmares"

"But what if the dress is still there?"

"Then I would have to say you have a very good case against your brother"

"I have to go tell Luis. Thank you so much" Sheridan jumped up out of the bed and shook Dr. Watts's hand. She ran down the stairs and found Luis and Eve sitting on the couch chatting. Her entrance into the room caused them to stop mid sentence and look at her. Her eyes were sparkling and Luis knew something good must have happened. She couldn't keep the good news bottled up.

"I didn't do it!" Sheridan exclaimed excitedly.

"You remembered?" Luis asked with of hope.

"Yes everything!"

She ran up to him and flung her arms around him. She hugged him tight to her. He placed his arms around her waist and started twirling her around. They were both so relieved and they giggled happily. Luis gently placed Sheridan down and remained face to face. They gave each other a sweet simple kiss. Sheridan thanked both Dr. Russell and Dr. Watts again and soon the doctors left. Sheridan and Luis sat on the couch and told him everything she had remembered. They decided that they would go look for the dress as soon as her family left for her funeral tomorrow. They would have Ethan call as soon as the coast was clear. Until tomorrow there was nothing more that could be done. They had the rest of the day to spend together. Since Sheridan couldn't go anywhere and they both wanted to thank everyone for their help Luis decided he would go get something for dinner and then rent some videos for after. They told Charity and Miguel of their plans for the night and they agreed that it would be fun. He called his mother and told her not to hurry home to fix dinner tonight because he had it covered. Theresa and Whitney would also be joining them this evening. Sheridan wished that Ethan and Gwen could come, but she knew that it wasn't possible. Luis left to get the food and Sheridan stayed and helped Charity and Miguel with their French homework. After awhile Charity and Miguel took a study break. Soon after Luis returned with two bags of groceries. Sheridan stared at him not knowing what to think.

"Luis what is this? I thought you were going to get dinner for us all"

"I did. What fun would it be if we didn't get to cook? Besides I want to see how good you are in the kitchen"

"Are you sure you want to find out?"

"Oh come on. You can't be that bad"

"Oh yes I can"

"No worries. We'll do it together"

They started to unpack the grocery bags and reveal their contents. It looked like Luis had bought enough food to last a week, but there were going to be many people at dinner tonight, so it was all needed. They were going to make lasagna. Luis had everything ready and gave Sheridan a simple task, to mix the cheeses. He told her to wash her hands and she did as he told her. Then told her to start mixing. She asked for a spoon, but he informed her she needed to use her hands. She gave him a 'yeah right' look but he told her it was the only way to get the cheese mixed well. Slowly she stuck her hands in and kneaded the cheese. She had the most disgusted look on her face as the cheese squished between her fingers. Luis couldn't help but laugh. He took the bowl away from her leaving her hands hanging in the air covered in a white cheesy mess. She told her she could wash her hands again, but she had another idea. He had too much fun laughing at her and had not had to get dirty. She gave him and evil grin and started to walk towards him. He had his back to her and reached over his shoulders and ran her hands down his face leaving white streaks. He quickly turned around and caught his little assailant rubbed his face to hers. She didn't want to get his clothes full of food, so she had no way to free herself. Soon her face had cheese goo on it too. Charity and Miguel then returned from their walk. They saw Luis trying to press his face to Sheridan's and her trying to move her head away. Charity and Miguel just laughed and hoped that that wasn't how they cooked the meal they had to eat later. Sheridan and Luis finally finished and everyone had arrived for dinner. The table was all set and they were about eat when there was a knock at the front door. Luis rose to get it and Sheridan followed him. She stayed in the living room while he saw who it was. She heard Luis open the door and say

"What are you doing here?" very angrily. Fear filled Sheridan's body as she wondered who it was.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 9:

"What are you doing here?" Luis repeated there was still anger present in his voice.

"Luis don't be angry, my mother asked Gwen and I to bring this to Pilar on our way to dinner" Ethan handed Luis an envelope. "Pilar forgot her paycheck this afternoon"

"I'm sorry Ethan. I didn't mean to be rude. Thank you"

"Luis how is Sheridan?" Gwen asked.

"Why don't you come inside, and ask her yourself" Luis let Ethan and Gwen in Sheridan rushed to give them a hug as soon as Luis shut the door.

"Your look terrific Sheridan"

"Thank you Ethan, so do you. Where are you two off tonight?"

"We're meeting my parents at the country club" Gwen announced. "We have to be there soon, so we don't have much time to talk"

"It's ok Gwen. You'll find everything out tomorrow. You better leave now anyway. We can't risk anyone finding things out too soon"

Sheridan said with a touch of heartache in her voice. She didn't want them to go, but she knew it was for the best. Ethan and Gwen said their goodbyes and left. Sheridan and Luis rejoined the rest of the dinner party and they ate and enjoyed all the people around them. Pilar ordered them all to go watch the movies and have fun, she would clean up. They didn't even want to argue, they weren't going to win. Miguel and Charity sat at one end of the couch and Whitney sat on the other side. Theresa sat directly in front of Whitney and Whitney started to braid Theresa's hair. Luis sat in a chair after putting the movie in. He called for Sheridan who was still in the kitchen talking to Pilar. She came into the living room which was completely dark except for the glow of the television set. She saw the open chair on the other side of the room and started to walk over to it, but before she could Luis reached for her arm. He pulled her into his lap.

"You're not going anywhere" he whispered in her ear.

"So what are we watching?" Sheridan asked.

"Psycho" Luis announced.

"UUUGGGGGHHH" all the girls groaned in unison.

"Are you trying to give us nightmares Luis?" Whitney questioned.

"Hey, no one told me to get anything specific, so I got a classic"

"Gone With The Wind is a classic. I don't think this counts Luis" Theresa argued.

"Well then don't watch it"

Luis said with a hint of annoyance in his voice. The movie started and they all quite complaining. Theresa and Whitney hugged pillows during the entire movie and their faces in them during the scary parts. Miguel held Charity tightly and she hid her head in his chest when she was scared. Sheridan rested her head on Luis's shoulder throughout the movie not even flinching at the shower scene. She felt too safe in Luis's arms to ever be scared. The night came to an end and Miguel walked Charity home, Theresa and Whitney retired into Theresa's room, Pilar was already in bed when the movie ended, and Sheridan and Luis went to his room. Tonight Sheridan didn't need to borrow Luis's clothes, Pilar had gotten clothes from Ethan. She slipped into flannel pajama pants and a tank top. Luis stripped to his boxers and the both crawled into bed. They cuddled together and tried to sleep, but both were too anxious and worried about what tomorrow had to bring.

"Luis are you asleep?" Sheridan whispered.

"No"

"Are you thinking about tomorrow too?"

"Yep. I want to know what is going to happen"

"Luis, I'm scared"

"Don't be. Everything will turn out for the best"

"How can you be so sure?"

"Because I know everything. You should know that by now"

"Oh I do" Sheridan said sarcastically as she rolled her eyes. "I'll just call you Mr. Omniscient from now on"

"Cute"

"I try"

Luis and Sheridan chatted until they grew sleepy. They talked about what they hoped would happen the next day and if everything went as planned what Sheridan would do next. She decided that she would probably move out of the cottage and maybe even get a job. She had gone to college and gotten a degree, she figured it was time to put it to use. Luis told her to take her time adjusting to her new life and he would be there to help her through anything that might occur. They finally slipped peacefully to sleep. The alarm went off at 6am and they both jumped out of bed. They had a long day ahead of them and needed an early start. Sheridan's 'funeral' was to begin at 10am and they needed to get things started. The FBI were coming to pick up Sheridan and take her to the mansion as soon as they got the okay from Ethan. Luis was to escort his family to the funeral as if nothing was going to happen. Sheridan and Luis both showered and Luis put on a dark suit and a tie. Sheridan just put on jeans and a sweater, she would change later. They both went downstairs to grab a quick bite to eat and drink some much needed coffee. Sheridan made the coffee as Luis made them toast and eggs. They sat down to eat, but said very little. They didn't eat much either, they just pushed their food around the plate.

"Sheridan, are you ready?"

"As ready as I'll ever be. I just want this to be over with"

"It will soon. Don't be nervous"

"I can't help it. It will be some much better if I find that dress"

"I hope you do. Your brother and father won't be able to con their way out of this one"

"Luis, what happens if I don't find the dress?"

"But you will"

"We aren't positive this wasn't a dream. I need to know what to do if the dress doesn't exist"

"You interrupt your funeral just as planned. You just don't accuse Julian and Alistair of killing anyone. Not yet, but you do tell them what you heard them say. Their threatening your life and that in itself is a crime"

"Okay. I can do this"

"I know you can. You're the strongest, bravest person I've ever met. I have no doubt in my mind that you can do this"

Just then there was a knock at the kitchen door. Luis answered it and three FBI agents came in. They explained how this was all going to work. The FBI was all to willing to help, because they have suspected Alistair for numerous business crimes but had no proof. This was their chance to get him behind bars. They explained if the dress was found a sample of the blood was to be taken on the spot and rushed to be analyzed. Sheridan would then go to the funeral, along with the dress, and confront Alistair and Julian. Then the FBI would take it from there. Luis would play a passive role in all of this. He was to be at Sheridan's side as soon as she walked into the church but he didn't have actually to do anything. Now everyone sat and waited for Ethan's call. Julian was in the library drinking his morning cup of brandy. Ivy walked into the room dressed in black. She was actually sad that Sheridan had died. Julian on the other hand had this smug smile plastered across his face from the time he found out. Ivy walked into hear the tail end of a conversation between Julian and Alistair. And was disgusted at what she heard.

"Julian are you sure you can't postpone the funeral. I have more pressing matters that need to be dealt with"

"Yes I'm sure father. The press is already lined up, we might as well get it over with"

"I wouldn't be coming at all if it wasn't for the press. But how would it look if Sheridan's father didn't show up. It would reflect badly on the Crane name"

"You're right father. When should we expect you?"

"I'm being helicoptered in right to the park across from the church. I will be there promptly at 11 and leave as soon as the priest says the final prayer"

"Of course. You wouldn't want to waste more of your day then necessary"

"Goodbye Julian"

Julian shut off the speakerphone and noticed Ivy standing in the room with a scowl on her face. She didn't look too pleased with her husband and father in law. Julian put was smiling but when he saw Ivy there he stuck out his lip and put on a sad face.

"Is that better dear? Do I look more like a grieving brother?"

"You really are heartless aren't you Julian?"

"Heartless? Me? Now how can you say that Ivy?"

"Oh shut up Julian. Ethan and Gwen are waiting for us. Wipe that smug smile off your face and try and act affected by the death of your only sister"

Ivy and Julian met Ethan in Gwen in the limo. It was only about quarter after ten, but they wanted to get there early to thank other people for coming and of coarse give the press a chance to take their pictures. There was nothing like free publicity to Alistair and Julian. As soon as the door to the limo was shut and they started to move Ethan picked up his cell phone. Ivy looked at him curiously as he dialed a number.

"Yes Mason, this is Ethan Crane I was wondering how the research on the McGaphney case was coming"

"Really Ethan, Couldn't this have waited?" Ivy scolded.

"Hold on Mason, Mother, this is a high profile case. I don't have time to waste"

"See Ivy, our son does take after me" Julian jested at Ivy.

"Ethan will never be like you Julian!"

"Its all in the genes darling"

"Thank god for that" Ivy said under her breath, meanwhile Ethan continued his conversation.

"Mason, go ahead and start…Yes I'm sure it's ok…Alright I'll talk to you soon" he hung up his phone and looked over at Gwen.

"Mason started the case Ethan?" Gwen asked.

"He is about to right now" Ethan tried to hide a smile. Luis hung up the phone and looked at Sheridan.

"That was it. It's time to start the plan" Luis told everyone in the room.

The FBI agents whizzed around the kitchen gathering their things. They grabbed Sheridan's stuff and were ready to escort her out the door in seconds. Sheridan walked over to Luis and gave him a huge hug. He kissed her on the cheek and took one of her hands. He slipped something in her and closed her fingers around it. He sweetly kissed her hand and whispered the words 'for luck' as the agents took her by the arm in led her into an unmarked vehicle. She waved to him as the car pulled out of the driveway. He walked down the driveway following the car to the road, he watched as she disappeared down the street. When she was no longer in view he returned into the house to gather his family and make his way to the church. Sheridan sat in the backseat of the car wondering what she was going to find, or possibly not find. She dropped her head and looked down at her hands. She then realized that she hadn't even looked at what Luis had put in her hand. She slowly released her fingers and revealed what hid inside. She felt tears forming in her eyes when she saw the little gold angel pin in her hand. Luis knew that she thought of him as her guardian angel. He gave her this little angel so she could feel that even though he couldn't be there with her right now, he was still there to protect her. Sheridan clasped the angel in her hands and held it to her heart. She rested her chin against her hands, closed her eyes and thought of Luis the whole drive to the mansion. Sheridan led the agents into the house and up to her childhood room. It was still as it was when she left it as a child. It wasn't the room she stayed in when she came back to visit, this one held too many sad memories to ever stay in again after she left for Europe the first time. The room was decorated in pink. It has a huge mahogany four-poster bed with a pink canopy on top. Her favorite teddy bear was still placed on her pillow; ready for the next time she slept in the bed. Sheridan walked over and picked out the teddy bear. She gave it a squeeze and took in a deep breath. The agents stood back and watched as Sheridan walked throughout her room. She made her way to the closet and opened the door. It was a walk in closet. As you walked in to the left you saw a sliding door that separated the closet from her bathroom. To the right was a vanity. Sheridan sat down on the stool and looked in the mirror. She closed her eyes and when she reopened them she saw herself as a young girl. She traced the face on the mirror with her fingers until she blinked again and the older Sheridan returned. She looked straight back into the closet to set of drawers that were made into the wall. On either side of drawers there were to little alcoves. In each of these were rods that used to hold all of her beautiful dresses. All the contained now were empty hangers. Sheridan walked back into the alcove to the left. She knelt down and crawled into the corner. She peeled back the carpet and started knocking on the floorboards. She found the right spot and lifted away the board. She put it aside and reached down into the hole. The first thing she touched was fabric. She took a hold of it and pulled it from the whole. She sat there looking at it when she could she what it was. The agents looked at her waiting for her to tell them what was going on. She saw them staring at her and tried to explain.

"These were my play clothes" she fought back the tears. "I wasn't allowed to wear anything but dresses when I was a child, so Pilar snuck me these jeans and shirt. I would put them in a knapsack and go for a walk. When I was nowhere to be seen, I changed out of my dress and into these. Then I could run around and be a child. In these clothes I felt free"

"So that's not the dress?" One of the agents asked.

"What?" Sheridan said as she snapped back to reality. "Oh no. Its not the dress I'll keep looking"

Sheridan reached back into the hole and kept pulling out things. There was a little treasures chest in which she kept her favorite jewelry. She found a framed picture of her mother inside too. She had emptied the whole and found no dress. The whole time she was digging through the whole she rested on her left hand, which still held the angel pin, and took thinks out with her right hand. When she when to put the board back she dropped the pin and she felt around the bottom of the hole for it. She found it and picked it up. One of the agents took put his cell phone and started to dial. The church was filled on one side with socialites. People who really didn't know Sheridan, but where there to show they were important enough to be invited. The funeral was by invite only because they feared press would sneak in. On the other side of the church were the residents of Harmony. Ethan insisted that they be there because they knew Sheridan and actually cared about her. Plus he told his father it would be a comfort to him to see familiar faces in the crowd when he gave the eulogy. Everyone had shown up, The Russells, The Bennetts, The Lopez-Fitzgeralds, and even Hank and Beth. The only one who hadn't showed up was the infamous Alistair Crane. The priest looked at the clock on the wall and saw it was 11. He decided to start even though Alistair had not shown up yet.

"Ladies and Gentleman" the priest started. "We are gathered here not to mourn the death, but to celebrate the life of Sheridan Crane. Let us start off with a prayer"

Everyone bowed their heads and clasped their hands together. As the priest started the prayer Luis felt his pocket vibrate. He took out his pager and looked at the number displayed. There was only a 0 on the screen. This was the code that the dress wasn't found. Luis became angry and if it wasn't for the priest's word he would have hit something.

"And let us not be angry with God for the choice he has made, for he always has a reason for his actions. Amen"

"Amen" Luis said with the rest of the congregation.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 10:

Sheridan picked up what she thought was her angel pin, but when she pulled up on it a board came up. She stared at the board for a moment puzzled as to what it was. Then all of a sudden more memories came flooding back to her. A couple of years after her mother died her father began to date again. She could remember this one woman in particular. Her name was Penelope Anne Roosevelt. She her grandfather was Teddy. It was a match made in heaven her father told her. One night she caught her father going through her mother's old jewelry chest. He pulled out a beautiful antique ruby necklace. It had been in her mother's family for years and she was supposed to get it when she got older. Alistair set the necklace out and told a maid to get a box for it. Sheridan knew it was intended to be given to Penelope. While they were both out of the room Sheridan took the necklace and ran into her room. She ran past Ethan on the way and he followed her. Ethan knew about her secret hiding place and sometimes kept things there too. Sheridan didn't think that the hole was safe enough, so Ethan stole a saw from a worker and cut out the bottom of the hole. They glued a knob on it and put the necklace in the hole inside the hole. Sheridan was sure no one would find it there. Then her memories flashed ahead to that night. She didn't just put the dress in the hole, but to completely hide it she put it in the hole.

"Oh god" Sheridan gasped.

"What is it Miss Crane?" one of the agents asked as he came back into the closet.

"This" she held up the bloodstained pink and white jumper.

"I thought you said it wasn't in there?"

"It wasn't exactly, but what does it matter I found it"

"You're right. Travis, get this to the analysts ASAP. Good work Sheridan. Now get ready we need to go to your funeral"

"You know, no matter how many times I hear it, it still sounds strange for me to be going to my own funeral"

The agent gave Sheridan a garment bag and she was just about to close the holes up, when she remembered the angel pin. She found it in the corner of the top hole. She let out a sigh of relief and stood up. She unzipped the garment bag and a white, sparkling, evening dress began to show. She pulled it out and slipped it on. It was perfect for her reentrance to the world. She sat down at her vanity and did her hair and make up. She pinned the angel to the strap of her dress so it would be close to her. After she was finished she looked in the mirror. Sheridan wasn't happy with what she saw though. She was still missing something. She needed a necklace. All of a sudden she wondered if her mother's necklace was still in its place. Again she crawled to her hiding place and fished around with her hands. And there it was, still there after all these years. Her father was furious when the necklace disappeared. He even fired that maid. Her name was Sophie and Sheridan felt so bad that she used to send Sophie some of her allowance every week with a note saying how sorry she was for getting her fired but she couldn't let her father give her mother's letter away. Sophie always sent the money back with a note saying she would have done the same thing. Sheridan lost touch with Sophie after she moved to Europe. She thought how wonderful it would be to see her again. She was only about ten years older than Sheridan. Sheridan made a mental note to find Sophie after everything blew over. She clasped the necklace, checked herself one more time in the mirror, and made a dash for the door. Meanwhile at the church Ethan was giving the Eulogy. He was trying to stretch it as long as he could because Sheridan wasn't there yet and he needed to stall.

"We are all lucky to have known Sheridan" Ethan had run out of things to say. "But none us were as lucky as Luis. I would now like to ask Luis to say a few words about Sheridan" Luis looked at Ethan was a look that said "what the hell are you doing?" Luis realized he was stalling and got up and walked to the podium.

"Good Luck" Ethan said as he passed Luis on the way back to his seat. Luis stood at the podium. He looked out at the people, he chuckled in his mind as he gazed at them. None of the people in the room were teary eyed. Every face was dry. That said a lot about all of Sheridan's family friends, and all of his friends knew Sheridan was still alive. Then he looked over at Hank and Beth. They looked more angry than sad. He then realized that he should begin talking before he looked like an idiot.

"Where do I begin? Sheridan was the most caring and understanding individual I've ever met. She had more love to give than she knew what to do with. I just more people would have realized this and been willing to accept or not take advantage of it" Luis was now looking directly at Julian. "She was also the most pigheaded and stubborn person I've ever met. And it's those qualities that I love her most for"

Just as those words feel from Luis's mouth he heard the door to the church open. Everyone turned around to see who it was. An immediate buzz filled the room when people recognized who it was. In walked the infamous Alistair Crane. He walked straight up to the podium not saying a word until he got there. He pushed Luis away and stood up to the microphone. Luis wanted to deck the guy for what he did to Sheridan, but he knew he would get what was coming to him soon, so he retreated to his seat.

"I'm sorry for my tardiness, my flight was delayed, but I would like to say a few things about my beloved daughter" Alistair began. "Although she was too naïve for her own good, she gave life her all. She was a fighter and stuck to her guns. 'If she hadn't been so defiant she would be alive right now' She was truthful, generous, and caring. 'I can't believe someone of my flesh and blood could be so pure' But most of all she was the best daughter I could ever ask for. 'Now that she's out of the picture' I want to thank you all for coming today. Father would you care to continue?"

Alistair sat next to Julian in the front row. The priest again took his place in front of the congregation. "At this time I would like to say one final prayer" everyone bowed their heads and closed their eyes. "God please help us ease our grief by remembering the good times we had with Sheridan. She walks with you now, please take care of her as we would. Knowing this may put us at peace. Send us…"

The priest stopped mid prayer. Someone tapped him on the shoulder. The priest opened his eyes and gasped. Everyone opened their eyes and looked up when they heard a thud. The priest had stumbled back and fell to the ground. He quickly recovered his feet and announced to the rest of the people. Julian and Alistair's mouths feel to the floor and their friends blinked their eyes in a frenzy.

"God has given us a sign. Sheridan has come back as an angel"

"No Father I'm alive" Sheridan patted the priest's shoulder.

"Then it is a miracle. God has given you back to us" he hugged Sheridan welcoming her back to the land of the living. Julian and Alistair rushed up to the podium as Ethan and Luis sat back and watched the upcoming events.

"Not so fast" Sheridan held up her hand signaling stop right there. Alistair and Julian were puzzled, they didn't know what to think. Sheridan saw the confusion in their eyes and was delighted at how well this was going to work. "You two have a little explaining to" She glared into their eyes.

"What every are you talking about Sheridan dear. We are ecstatic to see you alive"
"Your in a church Father. At least have the decency to tell the truth here"

"The truth about what?"

"Hmm…where should I start" Sheridan said sarcastically. "I know, how about with this" She reached into the bag she was carrying and pulled out the bloodstained dress. Julian and Alistair's eyes became wide and they looked at each other with fear. Luis was shocked, they had paged him and told him she didn't find it. What was going on? He would have to ask her later she had her hands full with her family.

"What are you holding Sheridan?" Julian asked nervously.

"You know exactly what I am holding"

"No we don't Sheridan dear"

"Don't play dumb. I'm not the fool you think me to be"

"We don't think that of you" Julian lied.

"Oh no?"

"Of course not my dear, we love you"
"That's a shocker. I seem to remember a phone conversation you to had with each other"

"What phone conversation is that?" Julian asked curiously.

"The one where you said you were happy I was out of the way and that if the situation wasn't as perfect as it was that you might have killed me yourself!"

"We never…"

"Don't even try to lie! I know, I was there I heard you!"

"You have been in Harmony this whole time?"

"Whole time? So you are referencing me being here to a phone call you claim doesn't exist?" Alistair groaned at his son's stupid mistake.

"I didn't…" Julian tried to correct himself.

"Julian stop all your lying disgusts me and it has to stop!"

"We don't have to take this from you Sheridan" Alistair grabbed Julian's arms and turned around.

"Actually you do Father"

FBI agents came pouring in to the room. They asked them to come for questioning and if they refused to come peacefully force would be used. Julian and Alistair agreed to cooperate and were walked out of the church. Luis ran up to Sheridan and twirled her around and began to kiss her. As soon as Julian and Alistair were out of the room everyone turned in their seat. They know stared at Sheridan and Luis kissing. Sheridan opened her eyes to see all eyes on her and Luis. She tapped him hard on the shoulder to get his attention. He broke the kiss and followed her gaze. He was slightly embarrassed and became a hue of red.

"You should say something" Luis whispered to her.

"What?" she whispered back.

"Anything"

"Well everyone I'd just like to say that I'm really glad that you all care enough about me to come today. And I want to thank you for all the support you have given me in the last week" during her whole speech she was facing the harmony side of the room. "I couldn't have done this without you. And I hope you don't mind if I run right now, I have things to take care of. I will make a point to talk to you all soon"

Sheridan grabbed Luis's arm and dragged him to the door. There was an agent waiting with a car to take them to the police station. They jumped in the back of the car and took deep breaths. Sheridan reached for Luis's hand and gave it squeeze.

"I'm still nervous" Sheridan stated.

"Why? The hard part is over with you caught them in their lies"

"Yeah I did, but what is to stop them from continuing to lie? They will do anything to cover themselves"

"Try and think positively this will all work out. You will get your life back"

"I don't my old life back. I want to start a new one, but I can't do that until I am out of my father's wrath"

"That day is coming soon Sheridan. Just be patient"

"I'm trying"

"Hey I almost forgot to ask you, what happened, they paged me and said you didn't find the dress"

"I didn't until my guardian angel guided me"

"What are you talking about?"

"I dropped the pin you gave to me" she brought her hand to the pin and rubbed it with affection. "And when I picked it up I opened another compartment instead. Then the memories came flooding back. I would not have remembered where I put the dress if it wasn't for this angel"

Luis was touched she loved his gift so much. He leaned over to kiss her but on the way to her mouth he stopped near her ear and whispered seductively: "I also forgot to tell you how gorgeous you are" Her heart skipped a beat as he made his way to her mouth. They shared a very hot kiss. They were so involved in each other they forgot their concerns, fears and where they were. They forgot the world. It was just the two of them. They felt like they were floating in the air, where nothing was there besides them. They felt completely safe. They both suddenly jumped as their protective bubble was popped. The agent that was driving was now standing outside the door rapping on the window. They had arrived at the station. They both turned red as they exited the car. The agent just smiled at the lovebirds, he wished he would feel like that one day. Inside the station FBI agents were questioning Julian and Alistair. They had them separated and were taking statements in separate rooms. Both were in small rooms with only a table and chairs in it. The walls were bare and there weren't any windows. They both had two FBI agents and a Harmony policeman in with them. Julian and Alistair both waived their right to an attorney since they both had law degrees. On each of the tables was a tape recorder. The police officer started the tape and FBI agent in charge started the interrogation.

"Please state you full name please"

"Alistair Robert Crane"

"Do you remember the night in question?"

"Yes I do"

"Where were you at that time"

"Where I always am"

"And that would be?"

"Switzerland"

"Then how did you find out about the events of the night?"

"Julian called me"

"What did he tell you happened?"

"He said Sheridan was going insane. He was quiet adamant about it. He said she attacked him with a letter opener out of nowhere. He said she hid a dark corner and was waiting for him and when she saw him she stabbed her in the leg with it"

"And you believed him?"

"I didn't have any reason not to. Sheridan had nightmares as a child. I never doubted that they could one day get out of control. The next day I had Sheridan sent to Paris hospital. End of story"

"Why didn't you report this?"

"Do people report all sibling fights to the police. After that I knew Sheridan needed help so I sent her to the hospital"
"Why in Paris?"

"I thought the change in scenery would be good for her. Plus then she would be closer to me and I could see her more"

"Did you visit her often?"

"What does that matter? It has nothing to do with this case" "Just answer the question"

"No"

"Now what about this conversation between Julian and yourself? Did you say that you would have killed Sheridan had she not died and interfered with family affairs?"

"I do remember talking to Julian, but I didn't say that. Julian did. I told him not to talk like that. Sheridan must have left before she heard me"

"OK. Thank you. You need to stay here for a while. Officer Harper will be here if you need anything"

Alistair had remained calm and collected during his questioning, but Julian sat in his room and felt like the walls were closing in on him. He felt like it was 100 degrees in the room too. Sweat drizzled down face and he nervously tapped his fingers on the table. He kept looking around the room wishing there was something to look at.

"Please state you full name"

"Julian Linus Crane"

"Do you remember the night in question?"

"Yes I do"

"Please tell us what happened between you and Sheridan that night"

"I was coming downstairs for a late night snack when all of a sudden out of nowhere Sheridan came up behind me and stabbed me in the leg. I immediately called Father and told him his precious daughter was nuts and needed to be put away. They next day she was sent to Paris"

"You were not fighting with another man?"

"There was no one there except Sheridan and me"

"So you didn't kill anyone"

"Of coarse not. I could never hurt anyone"

"What about the phone call that Sheridan overheard with your father?"

"I did not say I would kill Sheridan"

"You didn't?"

"No my father did. I was as shocked as Sheridan must have been. I hung up with him soon after he said that. Sheridan must have left before I defended her"

"That's enough for now, please wait here. Officer Tailor will be with you if you need anything"

Sheridan and Luis were waiting at Luis's desk. She was flipping through her planner, as he tried unsuccessfully to do some paperwork. FBI agent Travis Mason approached them. The both immediately dropped what they were doing and listened intently.

"We have nothing" he announced.

"Their stories are solid" "

They must have planned what they would say if this ever happened" Sheridan pleaded.

"But without another witness or the body, we can't prove anything"

"So what now? What about the phone call?" Luis asked grasping for some hope.

"That is a different story. They both blame each other. We are going to try and turn them against each other and see what happens. Maybe the truth about that night will come out. It would be a lot less painless if we had a witness that wasn't in the family, or a body was found"

"So in other words, the case is dead in the water. And I should give up?" Sheridan asked.

"Until something else comes up, yes. We will continue to investigate, but there is really nothing more you can do"

To Be Continued...

Chapter 11:

"Agent Mason if its all the same to you I'll wait to see what they say next" Sheridan said.

"Whatever you want Ms. Crane. You are free to go when you wish"

"Can I listen to what they are saying?"

"Of coarse. You can go behind the mirror, but are you sure you want to hear what they say?"

"I already know the kind of people they are. There won't be anymore surprises"

"Right this way Ms. Crane"

Agent Mason led Sheridan to a small room with two large windows on either side. Through one window she could see Julian nervously twitching and through the other was her father calm and collected. Luis didn't follow Sheridan into the room. He stayed behind to talk to Sam for a moment.

"Sam, they are going to get away with everything aren't they?"

"Unfortunately it looks that way"

"Those bastards I can't believe them"

"They have their bases covered Luis. They always do"

"I was just hoping this time would be different"

Their conversation was cut short when Luis heard Sheridan scream "NO!" at the wall. He rushed in to see what they were saying. Sheridan saw Luis come in and ran to feel his arms around her. He touched her chin and pushed it up so he could look in her eyes.

"What's going on? What did you hear?"

"He just keeps lying. My father doesn't have a decent bone in his body" Sheridan pulled away from Luis to again look at her father. He kept close to her though, keeping his arm around her waist. He wanted to protect her but he didn't know how. He was just trying to make her feel secure and safe with him. They listened as Alistair talked with Agent Mason.

"So you are saying that Julian wanted Sheridan dead because he wanted the Crane fortune to himself?"

"That is exactly what I'm saying. He didn't want to share the money. He told me that he would kill Sheridan after I died if she wasn't married or before she got married. That way the money would be all his. I'm surprised he didn't kill me off so he could get the money sooner"

"And you didn't turn him into the police?"

"I didn't think he would ever act on it. But now that Sheridan is still alive and Julian is furious that she accused him of murder. I don't know what he would do"

"Thank you Mr. Crane. We have some questions to ask your son. Your free to go, but please stay in the area for further questioning"

Luis looked at Sheridan she had a look of disbelief on her face. Then anger took over her body and she tensed up. She saw her father leave his room and tried to go after him, but Luis stepped in front of the door.

"Where do you think your going Sheridan?"

"I want to speak to my father"

"No you want to kill your father. You're staying right her with me"

"Luis, let me go"

"No! Just listen to what Julian has to say now. You want to hear his side don't you?"

"Luis, Julian really isn't that nasty. He would never want to kill me. Father made that whole story up to protect himself"

"Sheridan, I hate to say this, but you can't be too sure. You witnessed Julian kill a man"

Sheridan looked down at the floor and held back tears. In her head she knew Luis was right. Her family was cold and callous. She wished she wasn't related to them. Luis again put his arm around her waist and pulled her close to him. He could read her thoughts.

"Its not your fault you were born into this family. Just be glad you turned out like your mother"

"I've never told you about my mother"

"I know, but you are nothing like your father so I figure you got all your good qualities from your mother. She must have been a terrific person"

"She was. Thank you. You know you always find away to cheer me up"

"Its my pleasure. But I do have my ulterior motives for cheering you up, I love to see you smile"

Her cheeks turned a delicate shade a pink. She wanted to kiss him right then and there, but Agent Mason started to talk to Julian in the other room, so they turned to watch and listen. Julian shifted uncomfortably in his chair.

"Mr. Crane, I don't have any further questions for you. I'm here to inform you that you are to be arrested" "On what charges?"

"Intent to kill your sister Sheridan

"But I never…"

"We are searching your mansion for evidence right now. We have to hold you until they are finished"

A police officer walked in and led Julian to a cell. Sheridan looked deep into Luis's eyes. She was still in shock and couldn't believe Julian was so greedy that he would kill her. Her father had always been the mastermind and Julian just his drone. She had this feeling that her father was protected himself, not caring what happened to Julian as long as he was free. Her father was probably glad to be rid of Julian, he did mess up an awful lot. Luis saw right into her soul when he looked into her eyes. He could see her pain and wanted to get her away from everything.

"Come on Sheridan, let's go home. You've been through enough today"

"I don't have a home Luis" Tears rolled down her cheek.

"What are you talking about?"

"I can't go back to the mansion or cottage ever. I never want anything from the Cranes again. I don't want to part of their world"

"You can stay with me, just like you have been"

"Luis you can't take care of me forever. I need a place of my own, somewhere to call home. My home"

"I understand, but for the time being you are coming home with me and will stay there without worries" Luis brought Sheridan into a tight embrace. "Besides I enjoy having you in bed next to me" he then whispered into her ear.

"You have to stop that Luis" Sheridan said as she pulled from his embrace and turned away from him.

"Stop what?" He rested his hands on her shoulders and pulled her back towards him. She leaned her back to his chest.

"You have to stop being so damn lovable. I want to be in a bad mood right now and you're making that impossible"

He turned her around and bent down and kissed on the cheek. He backed away, took her hand, and led her from the room. They walked out to the car just in time to see Alistair getting his helicopter. A scowl formed on Sheridan's face. She couldn't believe what her father was doing. He was truly evil. Luis opened her door for her and practically pushed her in, she didn't take her eyes off the helicopter flying overhead. Luis walked to the driver side, got in, and drove to his house. Sheridan didn't say a word the whole drive home. She stared angrily out the window. When they got to Luis's house she got of the car and walked into the kitchen, still without saying a word. Luis was becoming more and more worried. It wasn't good for her to keep things bottled up. Luis helped her off with her coat staring at her helplessly. She sat down at the table and buried her head in her hands. She let out a huge sigh and Luis came behind her and stared to rub her shoulders.

"Penny for your thoughts"

"Luis you don't have enough pennies" he stepped back from her.

"I know I'm not a Crane but.." he said with a cocky attitude.

"You know I didn't mean it that way. I'm sorry. I just have so many things floating around in my head right now. It's all so confusing"

"Maybe it would help if you talked about it"

"I don't know where to start" Luis walked over and sat at the table across from her.

"How about with your father"

"He is a low life, conniving, egotistical, bastard. Not to mention heartless, and without conscience"

"Well that's a start. But are you more mad at him or yourself?" Sheridan's eyes got wide and she shot Luis a blank look.

"Why would I be mad at myself?"

"For wasting your time trying to earn his love"

"I was fighting a hopeless battle anyway. I should have realized"

"You couldn't have. He manipulated you and played on your weaknesses"

"I am NOT weak"

"I didn't say you were, but everyone has a weakNESS or two"

"Really, and what is yours?"

"I would think you would know already"

She stared at him blankly again. She was trying to think a one weakness Luis had, but nothing was coming. He was always so strong. So capable of handling any situation. Luis saw that Sheridan was clueless as to what he was saying so without a word he stood up and walked over to her. He took her hands from the table and lifted them upwards. She stood up and faced him. She watched his eyes trying to figure out what he was thinking. He could always read her mind, but she was still learning to read him. He raised her hands to his lips and gave each one a soft kiss. She took her eyes from his and followed his lips as the brushed her hands. He leaned in as if he was going to kiss her lips, but instead he brushed his lips across her cheek. Being so close to him sent shivers down her spine. He traced her jaw line with his lips and made his way up to her ear. His hot breath on her face was driving her crazy. He kissed her earlobe and then whispered to her.

"You are my weakness" Sheridan had grown limp at Luis's successful attempt to get at her, but as soon as those words let his mouth she tensed up and quickly turned her head to look into his eyes.

"I'm your weakness?" she was shocked.

"Yes. I can't be held accountable for my actions when your around" Luis then turned from playfully seductive to dead serious. "And if anyone EVER tried to hurt you I would do anything to protect you"

"Anything?"

"Yes"

"Why Luis?"

"Because I love you. Don't you realize that by now?"

"I've grown up being told I was loved by my father and brother and look at what's it got me" Luis cupped her face in his hands.

"*I* love *you*" A tear escaped from Sheridan's eye and trickled down her cheek. Luis kissed it away which only made her cry more.

"Luis…" Sheridan tried to talk but nothing was coming out.

"Don't you ever doubt my love for you. I'm not your brother, your father, or any of the guys you have dated before. I have no ulterior motive for loving you. I love you for who you are inside and I always will"

"I love you too"
"I know"

"How?"

"I can see it in your eyes"

"How can you always do that? Do you have psychic powers or something?"

"No. You learn how to read people by getting close to them. Theresa, Miguel, and I can have conversations without even talking because we know each other so well"

"That must be nice. I wish my family was like that"

"You can borrow mine anytime you need a family. Mama loves you like her own daughter and Theresa desperately wants a sister to talk to since Paloma is gone. And Miguel and Charity both love to be around you"

"Thanks Luis this means so much to me"

"Anytime beautiful. What do you say we go to bed and try to put this day behind us?"

"I can't"

"You can't? It's really easy you just rest your head right here" Luis patted his chest. "And close you eyes"

"I need to go somewhere"

"This late? Where do you need to go at this hour?"

"To talk to Julian"

"Umm…Why?"

"Although I want Julian to pay for murdering that man, I don't want him in jail for something father did. I still think Julian has a heart somewhere buried deep inside him"

"He's not going to help you"

"There is always the chance"

Luis wasn't going to argue with Sheridan. He knew no matter what he said she was going to go talk to Julian now. They got back in Luis's car and headed back to the station. On the way they stopped at a stoplight. Sheridan stared out the window into the park. There she saw a woman sitting on a bench crying. She looked familiar but Sheridan didn't know from where. Luis started to drive again and Sheridan stared at the woman as long as she could. She couldn't shake the feeling that she knew her. She forced herself to think of what she was going to say to Julian. She knew that the FBI wanted to nail Alistair, but could careless about Julian. She was going to use that to her advantage. Alistair had taken his helicopter back to the mansion. Apparently the car ride would have taken too long. The police had come and gone before he even arrived. He walked into HIS library and got himself a glass of brandy. He then sat down behind his desk and made a phone call.

"So was it accomplished?"

"As always sir. I have never let you down before"

"Good then the police should be off my case"

"By morning you should be able to fly back to Europe"

"That's what I like to hear. Payment will be taken care of as usual"

Alistair hung up the phone and a sly smile formed across his face. Nothing was going to bring him down. Sheridan and Luis arrived at the station. Sheridan had told Luis that she wanted to go talk to Julian alone. He made it clear that he didn't like Luis and she felt he wouldn't open up if he was standing right there. He agreed and sat at his desk reading the mornings paper that the police station got early. Sheridan walked to Julian's cell and noticed he was sleeping. She kicked at the bars making a loud clanking noise.

"Wake up sleepy head. We need to talk" Julian rubbed his eyes.

"Sheridan what are you doing here?" he sat up in his bed and let out a yawn.

"Like I said we need to talk"

"About what?" He got off his cot and walked over to the bars where she was standing. "I know you didn't want to kill me because of your greed"

"Your..."

"I'm not finished. I also know that father will do anything to make sure he is not harmed"

"I didn't do anything wrong and either did father. I'll be let out in the morning when no evidence is found"

"You really think that don't you Julian?"

"But of course"
"You're more naïve than I am then. Father is going to set you up to protect himself from further investigation from the FBI. They don't want you Julian they want him. This will divert their attention onto you"

"Sheridan, I don't know what you are talking about"

"Think about it Julian. Alistair can fabricate evidence as easily as he can lie. You're doomed either way. Why don't you just be a man for once in your life and tell the truth"

"Father would never do such a thing to me. I don't have to sit here and listen to this"

"Where are you going to the other side of your cell? You'll still be able to hear me from there. You're stuck so why don't you just be polite enough to hear me out. I know it will be tough because politeness isn't one of your strong suits, but try"
"Ok. I'm listening"

"Julian father is going to set you up. You are going to jail either way you look at it, but maybe my way the FBI will cut you a deal. I already said they wanted father not you"

"And what do you suggest I do?"

"How about tell them the truth about that night, or fathers corrupt corporate ways. Take your pick. Make him pay for all the things he has said and done to you. I don't want you to rot in jail. I know there is a good person in you somewhere. Mother had to have some influence on you"

"Don't bring mother into this"

"Oh did I hit a nerve Julian. What would mother think of what you've become? She wouldn't be proud that's for sure. Look at you. You have no mind of your own. You follow father's orders like a puppy dog. Maybe he even told you to kill that man that night. Julian please put your conscience at ease and do the right thing"

To Be Continued...

Chapter 12:

Sheridan continued to lure Julian to the side of truth, but wasn’t having much luck. She had even played the deceased mother card, but to no avail.

"I am innocent Sheridan and that is the truth"

"Julian how can you stand to look in the mirror? I hope you get what you deserve and may god have mercy on your soul"

"I will be a free man by morning dear sister"

"We’ll just see about that"

Sheridan turned, walked back into the main room and over to Luis. He was half asleep and was grazing through the paper rather than reading it. She was amazed that his eyes were even open at all. He didn’t even notice her walk up to him. She was amazed at how he took her breath away, even when he was in this dazed, far out state. No matter how frustrated and mad with family she was he could always put a smile on her face. She didn‘t want to disturb him, but she wanted to leave. She waved her hand up in down in front of his face. Startled he jerked his head up and shook out the sleepiness. You quickly stood up as if he had been wide awake the whole time. Sheridan just smirked knowing that he would never admit he was tired. Supercop never got tired.

"So Sheridan how did it go?"

"You were right Luis. Julian will never tell the truth. I was just so sure that he had a heart somewhere in him. I guess that was just wishful thinking"

"I’m sorry"

"Don’t be. It is time I realized the truth. But can we talk about it later. I really want to get back to your place and just sleep the day away"

"Of coarse"

Luis helped her on with her jacket, took her hand and led her out the door. They took the same way home as they did there. Again they got caught at the same stoplight they did before. Sheridan looked passed Luis to the park bench where the familiar woman sat earlier. The bench was empty now, but she couldn’t forget the woman’s face. Sheridan was sure she knew her, but couldn’t put her finger on from where. Luis looked over at Sheridan and saw her staring out the window. She looked deep in thought again, like she had some many times today. He decided to let her be alone with her thoughts, at least until they got home. He knew she had a lot of things to work out in her head and he couldn’t fix everything. By the time they had pulled into the driveway she had rested her head on the window and fallen asleep. She had been through so much today there was no way he was going to wake her. He would probably here about it in the morning, but he decided to carry her into the house. He carefully shut his door and walked over to hers. He opened it swiftly, making sure she didn’t fall out. He pulled her into his arms and closed the door with his foot. He managed to open all the doors and get her up to his room without waking her up. He carefully placed her head on the pillow and took off her coat and shoes. Surprisingly she still did not wake up. He gently kissed her forehead and was going to go down to the kitchen to get something to drink. Before he could take two steps her heard Sheridan’s voice linger through the room.

"Luis, it’s you" she said in a half whisper.

"Sheridan, what do you mean?" he whispered as he turned back around to her. But he noticed she was still asleep. He smiled and started to turn back around.

"It’s you I’ve dreamt about my whole life. I finally found you"

She let out a deep sigh and mumbled something incoherent. Luis’s stomach started doing flips. She was dreaming about him. And this obviously wasn’t the first time. He continued his trip to the kitchen with a dreamy grin and far off look on his face. Things were going to work out with them, he was sure about it. He walked to the refrigerator and got out some milk and nearly dropped the carton on the floor when he saw Theresa sitting at the table.

"God Theresa! What are you still doing up?" He regained his composure got his milk and sat at the table by Theresa.

"I can’t sleep" she said trying to keep her voice from cracking.

"Hey, have you been crying?"

"It’s nothing Luis"

"You can tell me"

"No I can’t"

"Sure you can tell me anything you know that"

"No, you’ve made it VERY clear that I can’t talk to you about this"

"Your talking about Ethan aren’t you?"

"Yes, and please don’t lecture me. I’ve really don’t need you telling me to give up on my dream of Ethan. I know he is going to marry Gwen, and that’s what hurts Luis. I can’t be with him and its tearing me apart"

"This wasn’t just some crush was it? You were really in love with him"

"Why does that surprise you? You can believe that Miguel loves Charity. I’m older than him"

"The circumstances are different Theresa"

"Why because he is a Crane? I do believe you have been sharing a bed with a Crane for the past couple nights"

"Sheridan is different. She didn’t grow up a crane"

"Either did Ethan, he went to the same boarding as Sheridan. And he helped you with Sheridan’s situation. You have to admit he is a decent guy"

"Yeah alright I’ll give you that. I just never knew your feelings ran so deep. I’m really sorry but you need to try and move on"

"I am trying. It’s just so hard. And Gwen and Ethan have me helping to plan their wedding"

"I can’t believe you’re doing that. How can you put yourself through that pain?"

"I have to Luis. I can’t let Ethan find out the way I really feel about him. He would hate me and I couldn’t live with myself if he hated me"

"Why don’t you go back to bed and try and get some sleep. You have school in the morning and I don’t want you to be a zombie"

"Always the big brother aren’t you?"

"It’s who I am. What can I say"

"Night Luis and thanks for listening, even if you didn’t want to hear it"

"Like I said, I’m always willing to listen. Good night"

Luis sat in the kitchen trying to figure out what to do for the next couple of days. He knew that Sheridan wanted a place of her own, but he really didn’t want to see her leave. He enjoyed cuddling with her at night and seeing her face first thing in the morning. He didn’t want her to leave but he didn’t know how to ask her to stay either. Upstairs Sheridan tossed in turned. Sleeping in your clothes isn’t very comfortable. She opened her eyes and was instantly confused. The last thing she remembered was riding in the car with Luis. Now she was in Luis’s bed. She sat up and looked around for Luis, but he was nowhere in sight. She rolled out of bed and went to look for him. She was kind of disappointed that he wasn’t sleeping next to her. He didn’t need to be such a gentleman around her anymore, she wanted him in bed with her, not on the couch where she thought she would find him. But when she got off the stairs and looked at the couch it was empty, she then saw the kitchen light on and went to find Luis. Sheridan swung open the kitchen door and was happy to see him there.

"Hi Luis"

"Sheridan? What are you doing awake?"

"It’s not too comfortable sleeping in clothes. Plus I don’t sleep as well without your arms around me"

"I just needed to get a drink"

"I was afraid you decided to sleep on the couch"

"Why would I?"

"I don’t know. By the way how did I get in bed?"

"Ummm… I ahh"

"Spit it out Luis"

"I carried you there"

"Why didn’t you just wake me up?"

"You looked so peaceful and you had a rough day"

"Well thank you"

"You’re not angry? That’s a first"

"Hey, I resent that. Are you coming to bed now?"

"Do you want me to?"

"Would I be asking you if I didn’t" Luis out his glass in the sink, turned out the lights, and took her hand and went up to bed. Sheridan dug out her pjs and started to leave the room.

"Hey where are you going?"

"To the bathroom to change"

"What all of a sudden your shy?"

"No. But…"

"You weren’t this way last night"

"That was different"

"So I can take your clothes off you, but you can’t take them off in front of me?"

"Yes"

"Sometimes I just can’t figure out how your brain works"

"That’s why you love me"

And with she disappeared out of the room. Luis stripped down to his boxers and flopped on the bed in confusion. Sheridan reappeared in her pjs, face freshly washed and teeth brushed. She again took his breath away and he immediately stood up. She was wide-awake now and in a very playful mood. She walked towards him slowly with a sly smile on her face. The she lurched at him tackling him onto the bed. Sheridan was a little more forceful than she thought because they hit the bed and bounced off the other side. They hit the floor with a loud thump and started laughing hysterically. They couldn’t bring themselves off the floor they were laughing so hard. Tears were streaming from their eyes.

"Luis?" they heard from outside the door.

"Come in" He managed to stand up and then pulled Sheridan up besides him. They tried to stifle their giggles.

"Are you two alright in here?"

"Yes mama, everything is fine"

"What happened?" Pilar questioned not know if she wanted to know the answer.

"Sheridan decided it would be a good idea to jump on the bed and we fell off" Both Sheridan and Luis relived they previous event and started to laugh again.

"I’m sorry Pilar. I didn’t mean to wake you" Sheridan managed to say between fits of laughter and then put her hand over her mouth to stop them.

"You two should try and get some sleep. Luis I would like to talk to you sometime tomorrow"

"Ok mama. Night"

"Goodnight Pilar" Pilar closed the door and returned to bed.

"Great Sheridan, now you got me in trouble. Do you know how long it has been since my mother scolded me?"

"I’m sorry Luis"

She was still trying to hold in her laughter. But it didn’t last long because he started to laugh again and she couldn’t hold it in anymore. They both feel into bed because they couldn’t stand anymore. Sheridan cuddled up next to Luis and they eventually fell asleep when the laughter subsided. When Sheridan woke up she found a note on Luis’s pillow instead of him. She opened it to find out Luis went to the Youth Center and he wanted to see her when she finally rolled out of bed. She got dressed and headed over there. She stopped at the Book Café and got them some coffee. She also picked up the newspaper. It felt good to her to be able to walk around town again. She didn’t have to hide anymore. She did receive her fair share of strange glances, obviously not everyone watched the news or read the paper. She shrugged it off and headed to the Youth Center. She walked into Luis’s office to again find another note. This one said that Luis ran to the police station and would be right back. She sat behind his desk and started to read the paper. The paper was full of what she already knew. Julian was in jail and she was alive. She then turned to the classified and started looking through the apartment rentals. She found a couple that looked interesting and wanted to circle them but couldn’t find a pen. She was digging through the drawers when she heard someone walk in the room.

"Looking for something?" Sheridan lifted her head.

"Hi Hank. Actually yes, a pen"

"Left hand drawer"

"Thanks" she reached in and pulled out red pen and began circling.

"I tried to call you last night"

"You did?"

"Yeah. I wanted to see how you were. You weren’t home"

"I didn’t stay at my cottage last night. And don’t plan to go back ever"

"Oh. So where did you stay?"

"At Luis’s"

"So plan on staying there forever?" Sheridan was getting annoyed with his questions.

"No, not forever. Just a couple of more days until I find my own apartment" This made Hank happy and he felt that he still had a chance. She saw the smile creep back on his face, and wanted to put a stop to his thoughts. "Hank, I love Luis. And I didn’t just stay at Luis’s but I stayed with him. In the same bed"

Anger filled Hank and his face turned bright red. It looked like his head was going to blow. Luis walked in at that moment and at the sight of him Hank lost it.

"You WHORE" he screamed at Sheridan and shoved Luis out of his way. He slammed every door on his way out of the center. Luis looked confused.

"What was that all about Sheridan"

"I kind of informed him that we were intimate"

"You WHAT? WHY?"

"I had to he was giving me creepy seductive looks. It had to stop and that was the only thing I could think of. I’m sorry if you don’t approve"

"No, it’s alright. He would have found out eventually anyway. So um I have some news" he sat down on the couch and patted the seat next to him. She got up from the desk chair and joined him on the couch.

"What’s going on?"

"Julian’s going to trial tomorrow"

"What?"

"They found a journal inside the wall safe of the library. It backed up Alistair’s story"

"Julian didn’t keep a journal. He would never be that stupid"

"Well they found one last night and the handwriting matched Julian’s"

"I told him this would happen"

"I don’t understand Sheridan"

"I knew father would put him away to protect himself. I know he had that fabricated"

"It doesn’t look good for Julian"

"Luis, I need to go talk to him again. Maybe now he will listen"

"Do you want me to go with you?"

"No, stay here and get some work done. You haven’t been here in days. I’ll come back when I’m done"

Sheridan left the Youth Center and started to head to her car. As she was about to put the key in the door she changed her mind. It was a beautiful day and the police station wasn’t that far so she decided to walk. She walked down the Harmony streets with her head in the clouds. She didn’t even notice the woman walking straight towards her. The woman was also preoccupied with her thoughts. They smacked into each other straight on. Sheridan looked up to see that it was the same woman she saw yesterday. And she still looked strangely familiar.

"You?" Sheridan gasped.

"I’m sorry Sheridan I wasn’t watching where I was going"

"You know me? Who are you?"

"You don’t remember?"

"No. You look familiar, but for the life of me I can’t figure out from where"

"It’s me Sophie"

"Oh my god Sophie! I was just thinking about you the other day. We should talk. I’ve missed you"

"I can’t talk. I have to leave Harmony after what’s just happened"

"What are you talking about Sophie?"

"Bye Sheridan"

Sophie rushed off leaving Sheridan in her dust. Sheridan just watched as Sophie disappeared. She was sure Sophie was scared of something. She looked really nervous and was in such a hurry to leave town. Sheridan would think about that later for now she needed to go talk to Julian again.

Chapter 13:

Luis sat down at his desk and looked at the paper Sheridan had left there. There were a couple of apartments circled. He felt his stomach tighten. She actually was going to go live on her own. He didn’t want to think about not waking up next to her, but at the same time he knew she couldn’t live with his family forever. He couldn’t live with his family forever, but he didn’t think they were ready to handle life without him. His income was vital to their existence. It was almost as there was no way that Sheridan and him could be totally together in the near future. At least not until Miguel graduated high school and that wasn’t for another two years. But then where would his mother go. She wouldn’t want to live in the house by herself, but she would never agree to sell it when there was still a chance that Martin could come back. Luis was talking himself and giving himself a headache. He leaned down and pounded his head on the desk a couple of times, his self mutilation was interrupted by someone walking into the room.

"Luis stop. What are you doing?" Luis stopped and looked up.

"Oh hi mama. I was just frustrated"

"Don’t you usually go punch the bag when you feel like that?"

"I haven’t gotten that far yet. What are you doing here? Don’t you have to work today?"

"Ivy gave us the day off"

"That was nice of her"

"I came for that talk you owe me"

"Yeah, I forgot"

"Selective memory lately?"

"I guess you could say that"

"About you and Sheridan"

"What would you like to know?"

"I know you are both adults and capable of taking care of yourselves, but I still worry about you two"

"There is nothing to worry about mama. We are very careful, I promise"

"I wasn’t talking about that Luis and I will pretend I didn’t hear that, but I would really like to see you both in church this Sunday. Do you really think your troubles are over?"

"Troubles?"

"Alistair is furious at Sheridan for her accusations. He is going to be working overtime to make sure he tears the two of you apart"

"There isn’t anything that could separate us"

"Luis, just promise me you will be careful and will take care of each other"

"Of coarse mama"

"I’m going to take Theresa to a movie and try and cheer her up. Thank you for talking to her last night. She is relieved you finally know the truth"

"Bye mama. I love you and good luck with Theresa"

Pilar nodded and left as quietly as she came. Luis returned to his frustrations and looking at Sheridan’s paper. He couldn’t take it anymore and finally he picked up the paper and crumpled it up as small as humanly possible. The then threw it in the trash and went to the locker room to change into his gym clothes. He immerged from the locker room ready to beat a hole in the bag. Sheridan walking up to the police station just as an ambulance pulled away. She turned around to watch it drive away. She shook it off, walked in the station and directly towards Julian’s cell. When she got there she was surprised to see it empty. She saw Sam walking down the hall.

"Sam?" She yelled slightly down the hall.

"Sheridan, how did you hear about Julian so fast. I haven’t even called Luis yet"

"What happened to Julian, Sam? I just came down to talk to him. Where is he?"

"Sheridan, I don’t know how to tell you this. Why don’t you come sit down"

"No Sam. Just tell me"

"Julian tried to kill himself this morning"

"He TRIED?? So he isn’t dead?"

"Not as of yet, but it doesn’t look good"

"How the hell did this happen? Aren’t you supposed to be safe in jail?"

"He tried to hang himself with his belt"

"Why did he still have his belt Sam? Aren’t you supposed to take those things away from inmates to prevent this kind of thing?"

"Usually we do, but it was very late last night when we finished with Julian. He passed out in exhaustion before you came for your visit last night. We thought we would just let him sleep until morning"

"This doesn’t make sense Julian was stronger than that"

"I’m sorry bad things keep happening to you Sheridan"

"I need to go see Julian. Please call Luis and tell him where I am going"

"Sure Sheridan"

As soon as Sheridan left the station she remembered she didn’t have a car. The hospital was across town so she practically ran back to the Youth Center to get her car. Luckily she had opted to wear pants today. She was in such a hurry she didn’t bother to go get Luis because she knew Sam was going to call him for her. She quickly searched for her keys in her purse. She tugged on them, but she lost her grip and sent them sailing behind her. She turned around to pick them up and saw Sophie sitting at the bus stop. She turned to her car and then back to Sophie several times. She was trying to figure out whether to talk to a woman from her past or go see her devious brother. Sheridan finally decided to go talk to Sophie because Sophie looked like she was leaving town and Julian wasn’t going anywhere, hopefully. Sheridan crossed the street while Sophie seemed to look down the street willing the bus to come quickly. Sheridan sat down on the bench next to Sophie. Sophie tensed as Sheridan just sat there. Sheridan decided to be blunt and just get to the point.

"Sophie, what’s going on?"

"Going on? Nothing is going on, Sheridan"

"Why are you lying to me? You never used to"

"It’s just to complicated"

"Does this have anything to do with Julian and Alistair?"

"I wasn’t supposed to be here, but my sister just had a baby. I thought it would be safe"

"Safe? Why wouldn’t Harmony be safe for you?"

Luis continued to beat the bag. His frustrations were still getting the better of him. He took one last swing but the bag didn’t give as did with his last punch. He refocused his eyes and saw Beth sitting in front of him. His punch had sent her to floor. She gave Luis a stunned look has he helped to her feet. She was not the person he wanted right then. Actually besides Hank, she was the last person he wanted to see. He put on a fake smile and was going to try to be polite.

"Beth I’m sorry. I didn’t see you there"

"I kind of figured that"

"What are you doing here?"

"I came to see you Luis. What else would I be doing here?"

"Did you need something?" Luis was trying to make sense of why she was actually there.

"I need a reason to come see one of my best friends now?"

"I’m sorry Beth. I’m just a little on edge today"

"It’s really okay. Did you and Sheridan have a fight?"

"You know about me and Sheridan?"

"The whole town knows about you and Sheridan Luis"

"You’re not angry?"

"If she is the one who makes you happy then no. I am a little disappointed that is isn’t me who make you feel like that, but I just want you to be happy"

"You know what Beth, you’re one of the greatest" They were interrupted by the sound of Luis’s pager going off. "I need to call Sam. I’ll talk to you soon, okay?"

"Okay Luis. Bye"

Beth went back to her life at the Book Café and Luis rushed into his office and called Sam. Sam filled Luis in on the Julian situation and told him Sheridan had gone to the hospital to see him. Luis was in shock. He never thought Julian was so unstable. Then he thought of how angry he would be in Julian died. Not that he would be sad that the world was rid of person like him, but he would not suffer in jail for his crimes. He would get out of living with the circumstances of his actions. This did not sit well with Luis. Luis didn’t want to go to the hospital all sweaty so he quickly jumped in the shower and changed his clothes. He rushed out of the Youth Center and was surprised to see Sheridan’s car still sitting there. ‘There is no way she would have walked that far’ he thought. Suddenly he thought something could have happened to her. He turned himself around and searched the area. Then he saw her sitting at the bus stop with a strange woman. He breathed a sigh of relief and hopped in his patrol car. He headed over to pick her up since they wouldn’t need to cars at the hospital. Sheridan continued to try and get Sophie to open up to her.

"You can trust me Sophie. Please just tell me why you don’t think Harmony is safe"

"Okay Sheridan I will tell you everything, but you have to promise not to tell anyone where you heard this"

"I promise"

"Julian and Alistair don’t want me here…" Luis then pulled up to the two. "Oh no. Sheridan I have to go" Sophie was obviously nervous that a cop was so close to her.

"Sophie calm down. You don’t have to go anywhere that is just Luis"

"Who is Luis?" Luis parked the car and got out. He made his way to the bench they sat on.

"Luis is my boyfriend. Sophie this is Luis. Luis this is Sophie. Sophie used to work for my family"

"Its nice to meet you Sophie" Luis extended his hand to her.

"Sheridan your boyfriend is a cop?"

"He is the best cop in town actually" she smiled at him.

"And your father approves of this?"

"I don’t care what he thinks"

"I’m surprised he doesn’t have you married off by now"

"My father does NOT control my life. But anyway what is it that Julian and Alistair did to you? And you can trust Luis"

"Not to offend you Luis, but I’m not a very trusting person"

"It’s okay Sophie. I understand. Sheridan I’m going to go to the hospital. I will see you there"

"Alright Luis. I’ll see you soon" Luis got back in his patrol car and took off down the street. Sheridan turned back to Sophie hoping that she would now tell her what was going on.

"Okay it’s just you and me. Please tell me what you know" Sophie looked around making sure there wasn’t anyone else around. Her dark eyes kept shifting back and forth. Every time it appeared that she was going to speak she stopped to look around again.

"Sophie, I get the feeling you are really scared someone is watching you. Would you feel better if we go across the street into the Youth Center? Luis has an office there that we can use"

"But my bus might come while we’re gone"

"I will get you to where ever you need to be. Please my life has been full of nightmares, and what you have to saw might finally put me at ease" Even though Sheridan had remembered the details of that night she needed someone to back up the story, maybe Sophie was this person.

"Alright Sheridan, let’s go"

Sophie gathered up her bag and followed Sheridan across the street and into the Youth Center. They went straight into Luis’s office and Sheridan closed the door behind them. Sophie set down her things and sat uneasily on the couch. Sheridan sat beside her and took her hand in hers.

"Before you say anything, I just want to say I’m still sorry I got you fired. I still feel guilty about it"

"Sheridan you didn’t get me fired"

"If I had told the truth about the necklace you would probably still work for my family"

"That’s not true. Alistair was waiting for a reason to fire me"

"What? Why?" Sophie closed her eyes and took a deep breath.

"I overheard something no one was supposed to hear. There was a phone call for your father and the caller said it was urgent. So I rushed to your father’s study to give him the message. I was about to go in the study and tell him when I heard him talking to Julian. I didn’t want to disturb them, but the caller was insistent that it was a pressing matter. So I walked to the door and was about to knock when I heard Alistair give Julian an order"

"What order? What did he want Julian to do?"

Sophie wasn’t sure if she wanted to continue and Sheridan sensed this.

"Please Sophie. I need to know"

"Alistair told Julian to kill someone"

"What?"

"I stood there terrified. I was barely 20 at the time. I stood there with my hand raised ready to knock on the door but I never did. I was frozen in that spot. Something was forcing me to listen"

"Sophie what did you hear?"

"That Julian was supposed to kill one of Alistair’s workers because he knew too much about his business dealings. And it had to happen soon. They discussed their plans, which I don’t really remember, except they were going to bait the person to come into the mansion. Julian got up to leave and I still couldn’t move. He found me outside the door in shock. They told me I didn’t hear anything and I was to go about my work as normal. The next day was the necklace incident and Alistair took the chance and fired me. He also gave me 2 million dollars to keep quiet and said never to return to Harmony again"

"That’s why you’re so scared. Alistair is in town and you don’t want him to find you here" Sophie sadly nodded her head yes.

"I got your first letter and money about a week after I left, but after that they came from Paris. I always sent the money back because you weren’t the reason I got fired"

"Sophie, I saw Julian kill someone. That is why I was sent to Paris"

"You what?"

"You need to tell the police this" Sophie stood up and grabbed her bag.

"I can’t Sheridan. Look what they did to that man. They wouldn’t be so nice to me this time if I helped you"

"Alistair and Julian deserve what is coming to them. You can help me bring them down"

"Sheridan I can’t. I have a family now. I have to worry about them. I’m sorry. I need to go now"

Sophie walked out the office door leaving Sheridan alone to try and figure out what just happened. Everything was starting to piece together. Luis walked into the hospital lobby and asked for Julian’s room. He headed up to the second floor. He saw Sam outside Julian’s talking to an ER doctor. He hurried down the hall to try and catch the conversation. He was in for a shock though. The doctor was talking to Sam about Julian’s injuries.

"Julian has several bruises around his neck that are inconsistent with strangulation with a belt. The belt would have left a v-like bruise starting right under the chin and going straight up to both ears. But Julian has more scattered bruising" the doctor explained.

"What are you saying Dr. Mitchell?" Sam questioned.

"I don’t think this was a suicide attempt"

Chapter 14:

Sheridan looked around Luis’s office. She knew the case against her father was nothing unless she had more proof. And she just let the proof walk out the door. What in the world was she thinking? She grabbed her coat and hurried after Sophie. Luckily the bus that Sophie planned on taking hadn’t arrived yet. She was still seated on the bench. Sheridan rushed across the street. Sophie looked scared to see her again. Almost terrified in fact.

"I shouldn’t have told you" Sophie announced as soon as Sheridan sat down besides her.

"Sophie I can help you get your life back. Don’t you miss Harmony and your sister? Wouldn’t you like to be close to your new niece?"

"I would love all of those things Sheridan. My mother is sick too and she needs me"

"You could come back if you testified against Alistair"

"NO! I have two children of my own, and I am all they have. My husband died of a heart attack two years ago. I will not put their lives at risk"

"I’m sorry for your loss, really I am, but don’t you understand Sophie. If you don’t stand up to Alistair he is free to do this to other people"

"Why don’t you stand up to him? You’re his daughter"

"I’ve tried Sophie, believe me I have. I’ve done all I can, but I need help. I was just a little girl. I need someone to back me up"

Sophie sat in silence for a while not sure what to make of the situation. She desperately wanted to help Sheridan. She knew the little girl in Sheridan needed to grow up and the only way to do that was to get out of the wrath of her father. Sheridan deserved a chance to live, to have a family like hers. But was she willing to risk the family she adored. Then again could she live with herself knowing Alistair tore apart another family? She missed her mother and sisters daily and longed for a life that could include them.

"Look if you’re worried about being safe don’t be" Sheridan stated. "You can stay with me and Luis. He would never let anything happen to you. He is the best protector in the business. No one will even know you are here until the trial so your family will be safe. We can probably even work it out so Alistair himself never knows you are here. It can just be the judge and the attorneys. What do you say?"

"I still don’t know Sheridan. I am so scared"

"I am too Sophie. More scared than I have ever been in my life. In fact I think Alistair tried to have Julian killed. I could be next. Alistair needs to be put in his place. Which is behind bars. Please tell me you will help"

The bus came into view. It was making its way down the street. Sophie had to choose soon, the next bus wasn’t until tomorrow. Her head was spinning she didn’t know what to do. She looked at Sheridan and saw the pleading in her eyes. Finally the bus pulled to a stop in front of them. Sophie picked up her bags and made her way to the open bus door leaving a disappointed Sheridan in her wake.

Luis and Sam stood and stared. It was all they could do. They were speechless. Dr. Mitchell had just told them that with the injuries Julian had sustained it wasn’t a suicide attempt. Julian was the victim of an attempt of murder. And at this point a full-fledged murder couldn’t be ruled out. Julian was hanging on by a string at the moment. Luis and Sam sunk into hospital waiting chairs and tried to piece together how someone was attacked while in a solitary jail cell. It had to have been an inside job, but which officer was on the take. Both Sam and Luis refused to leave in case Julian woke up and could tell them something. But they needed to see the security tapes from last night. Sam ordered them over to the hospital and arranged for a TV and VCR to be put in the waiting room with them. The tapes were rushed to them and within twenty minutes they were watching them. The only problem with the tapes were they didn’t so the inside of the cell just the hallway that connected them all. But they figured whomever went inside of Julian’s cell had to be the assailant. They watched in fast forward as policemen checked on the inmates. But so far no one had gone in any cells. They were all performing routine checks. They had made it to the second tape before anything interesting came up.

"Is he new?" Luis asked Sam of the officer performing the checks on the tape.

"I don’t recognize him"

They watched as the mystery cop performed the usual checks. But when he got to Julian’s cell he opened it and went inside. After about fifteen minutes the "cop" came out and returned to his checks and then left.

"That was him. That’s our man!" Sam announced as he flicked off the tape. "I am sending this tape back to headquarters and see if they can digitally enhance his face. Maybe then we can find out who was behind this"

"We know Alistair was behind this Sam. Who else would want Julian dead right now?"

"We don’t have any proof Luis. Don’t go jumping the gun"

Eve Russell came walking out of Julian’s room. She headed straight for Luis and Sam. Luis and Sam both jumped out of their seats and greeted her.

"Julian is awake" she announced. Sam bolted for the door to Julian’s room. He wanted questions answered and now. "Sam wait" he waited when Eve called him back. "Julian is still in really bad shape and in and out of consciousness. What he says may or may not be true or coherent"

"I understand Eve, but I still need to talk to him" Sam argued.

"That may very well be, but not at this time Sam. He is my patient and his well-being is in my hands. He doesn’t need any stress right now"

"Eve you have to let me talk to him" Sam pleaded.

"Not at this time. But Julian has asked to talk to someone"

"Who?" Luis asked.

"You Luis" she informed him.

"Me? Why me?" Luis questioned Julian’s motives.

"I don’t know Luis. Just try not to upset him"

Luis nodded at Eve’s request. He slowly walked towards Julian’s room not sure what was going to come out of it. He wasn’t sure he wanted to find out. Why would Julian want to see him? Julian hated him, no actually he despised him. Luis opened the door and found that Julian was indeed still awake. His eyes were glued on Luis as he entered the room and shut the door behind him.

"What can I do for you Mr. Crane?" Luis asked.

"Please take a seat and do call me Julian" Julian had to fight for every breath. He was hooked up to a respirator but most of the time that didn’t feel like enough.

"Ok Julian" Luis sat down. "What is it?"

"I’m not proud of myself" he wheezed. "I have not led a respectable life"

"I am not a priest Julian" Luis said harshly.

"Please here me out" Julian pleaded.

"Fine" Luis gave in.

"Sheridan said something to me last night when she visited. She told me our mother wouldn’t be proud of me if she could see me now. She told me I had a chance to redeem myself" Julian panted to gain control of his breathing.

"And why are you telling me this?"

"I’m not well Luis. I have never been really strong. I am like my mother that way. I can not quickly recover from a strenuous experience"

"Like what happened to your mother after Sheridan’s birth"

"Yes, just like that. My time is coming very soon and there is something I have to tell you. Maybe then I will join my mother instead of going to the depths of hell" Julian’s breathing was becoming more and more labored.

"What, what do you have to tell me?" Luis asked standing up quickly and becoming quickly agitated. Julian continued to struggle for breath.

"I’m sorry" Julian announced and a tear even slipped from his eye. "I didn’t want to do it. I hadn’t done it before or since. It was awful"

"Get to the point" Luis screamed. "Sorry" he forced himself to calm down.

"I…I…" Julian’s head started to roll around a bit.

"What Julian? You what?"

"I killed your father" he said his voice barely a whisper. Luis was floored he was sure he heard something wrong.

"You killed my father?"

Luis never got the answer to his question. Julian flat lined. Nurses and doctors rushed into the room. There were code blues yelled through the hallway and Luis was escorted out of the room. Luis rejoined Sam in the waiting room. Luis couldn’t seem to say a word. He just sat in a chair and stared straight ahead. He was in shock. Julian Crane had just admitted that he killed his father. But then he remembered what Eve said. What Julian said might not be true. Julian could be doing this to torture Luis even in death. It could also be a deathbed confession. How was he ever going to find out if Julian died?

Sheridan came walking into the hospital. She wanted to see her brother. Even though he was never kind to her, she loved him and wanted to make sure he was okay. It was her curse to have a good heart. She walked by the waiting area and saw Luis. He didn’t look well. He looked incredibly lost. She approached him but he didn’t seem to notice she was there.

"What’s wrong with him Sam?" Sheridan asked as she kneeled down in front of Luis and took his hands in hers.

"He came out of Julian’s room like that. Hasn’t said a word since"

"What was he doing in there? Luis sweetie, what’s wrong?" she rubbed her hand across his cheek.

"Julian wanted to talk to him"

"Sam would you go get him a glass of water or something?" Sam got up and left willing to do anything for Luis. "Come on Luis talk to me. Say something" she begged.

Luis didn’t respond. Sam returned with the water and Luis took it in his hand. Then something in him snapped. Luis bolted out of the chair knocking Sheridan into a sitting position on the way. He started hurling chairs over and kicking anything in his way. He kept screaming "I knew it!" over and over again. Sheridan tried to calm him but he just kept shaking her off. Finally Sam got a hold of him and yelled at him to get a grip of himself. And then Luis snapped back to reality. He saw Sheridan sitting in the corner with fear in her eyes. He rushed to her side.

"I didn’t hurt you did I?" he asked as he helped her to her feet.

"No, just scared me. What happened to you Luis? What did Julian say?" he gave her a hug before he answered.

"I’m soo sorry" he kissed her on the forehead.

Eve again came to join the gang. She looked at them with a poker face. They couldn’t tell Julian’s fate from her stare. She asked them all to sit down but they all refused. They wanted to know the truth, sitting or standing didn’t matter.

Chapter 15:

Eve wandered up to the solemn group of people. They all had their different reasons for want Julian dead and alive. None was sure whether it was better for society if he lived or died. But it wasn’t their choice. His fate was already sealed. Eve drew a deep breath before letting out her news.

"Well Eve?" Sam asked impatiently.

"Julian didn’t make it. I’m sorry Sheridan" Luis instinctively put his arm around Sheridan and drew her near to him. "His heart just wasn’t strong enough" Eve left the group to go and tend to her duties. Sam left to go check one last time on Julian, leaving Sheridan and Luis alone.

"Hey are you okay?" Luis asked.

"Yeah I’m fine" she replied.

"Hey it’s ok you can be sad. He was your brother and no matter what he has done I am sure you loved him"

"You know me so well" Luis led Sheridan to a chair and sat her down. Then he sat down next to her. "Luis, please tell me what happened to you. What made you act like that?" Sheridan saw the darkness rise in Luis’s eyes. "No, no, no" Sheridan said quickly giving his shoulders a shake.

"I’m sorry. I don’t mean to scare you"

"Then talk to me" she urged.

"This isn’t the time or the place. We’ll talk later at home ok?"

"You promise?"

"I promise I will tell you everything as soon as we are home"

"Then what are we waiting for let’s go. There’s nothing more we can do for Julian"

"As much as I would love just to go home with you and talk and stuff"

"Stuff huh?" Luis winked at her and continued.

"But Sam and I have to investigate Julian’s murder"

"Are you even going to come home tonight?"

"Of coarse. It might be late, but I will be there"

"Good cause I have something to tell you too"

Sheridan and Luis walked out of the hospital together. Sam followed closely behind. Luis walked her to her car and sent her home. Sam joined Luis in his police cruiser and they took off to the station. They hoped there had been some headway made as to who the "cop" was who murdered Julian. They stormed into the station and headed straight into Sam’s office. There was already a TV monitor set up waiting for them. There was a post it attached saying to call the visual specialist when they got in. Obviously he had found something. Sam got on the phone and called Percy Jones, one of the best technical people in the area. Percy was having coffee at the book café and rushed over. Percy walked into the office and greeted Sam and Luis.

"What did you find Percy?" Sam asked.

"Something very interesting" he motioned to Luis to turn off the lights while he flicked on the TV and pressed play on the tape. "As you can see the man always has his back to the camera. I think he did his homework, but" he fast forwarded the tape. "but he makes a mistake. He looks back at his victim. And right there" he paused the tape. "we caught his face"

"He looks older than I would have thought" Luis commented.

"The picture is still far away is there any way we can get a closer view?" Sam asked.

"Yes, follow me"

Percy led them out of the office to a computer he had set up. He quickly pressed a few buttons and the image they had just seen on the TV reappeared. Percy pressed another button and the image began to zoom in.

"He looks vaguely familiar" Sam pointed out as one of the enlarged images came into focus.

"This is as close as I could get" Percy announced as he pushed one last button. The image slowly came into view.

"I can’t believe it" Luis gasped as he saw the face on the screen. "I know who it is"

Sheridan said her goodbyes to Luis and reluctantly went home without him. She wanted to talk to him about her day with Sophie but more importantly she wanted to know what caused him to snap. She had never before seen him so out of control. What could Julian had said to have such an affect on him. She reached the Lopez-Fitzgerald house and went inside. It was good to be home. Even if this was her temporary home. She fully intended to have her own apartment and soon, there were too many people in this tiny house already. As soon as this all passed over she would continue her searching. Where did she leave that paper anyway? Oh well she could get another one tomorrow. The smell of a home cooked meal filtered through her nose. She made her way to the kitchen to see who the culinary genius was. She found Sophie and Pilar in the kitchen chopping and laughing. They seemed to be enjoying themselves. Sheridan still couldn’t believe Sophie had told the bus driver she had changed her plans and left with her. Sheridan brought her here and left her in Pilar’s care. It seemed to have been a wise choice. Sophie didn’t need to be out in public where people could recognize her and put her in danger.

"What are you cooking?" Sheridan asked as entered the kitchen.

"Oh nothing" Pilar and Sophie just giggled.

"What are you two up to?" she asked suspiciously. "And can I help?" she loved to be a little devious.

"Nothing you can do now dear" Pilar announced.

"But we will need you to taste test soon" Sophie laughed again and Pilar soon joined in.

"I don’t know what you two are up to, but it can’t be good" Sheridan stole a carrot from the table and began to munch.

"We are almost done here Sheridan. Don’t fill up on scraps. We want you to eat plenty of this" Pilar elbowed Sophie a little and again they both laughed.

"Have you guys been drinking?" Sheridan questioned their strange behavior.

"No we are perfectly sober" Pilar assured her.

"One last touch" Sophie announced. She threw in a pinch of something or other. "There" She served up a bowl of it and handed it to Sheridan at the table. Pilar joined her at the table and Sophie excused herself to take a shower. Sheridan blew on a spoonful of the stew and took a bite.

"This is good" she complimented Pilar.

"Thank you" she smiled for a moment before her face took a more serious turn. "Sheridan I have something to talk to you about"

"I don’t know if I like the sound of that" she continued to eat.

"It’s not as bad as you think. First do you really like the soup?"

"Yes, what is it?"

"It’s a Mexican fertility soup" Sheridan had to gulp down the bite she just took. She almost choked when she heard Pilar.

"It’s a WHAT? Why would you want to give me a fertility soup?"

"You’re a smart girl Sheridan I am sure you can figure it out. I want grandchildren"

"What happened to your holier than thou attitude Pilar?"

"I realized today that Luis needs his own life. And he won’t leave the family. A baby might be the extra push he needs. The truth is we can make it if he leaves to live his own life, but he won’t do that. He thinks he is the man of the house, but he is wrong. I am"

"Pilar what has gotten in to you?" Sheridan was shocked to say the least.

"I know you are looking for an apartment of your own and I want you to take Luis with you when you leave"

"I want nothing more to wake up next to Luis everyday but"

"But his obligation to us is too strong. It is tearing him up Sheridan. You should have seen him earlier today, beating his head on his desk. He wants a life with you and deserves it but he thinks he is the head of this family. He will not walk out on us. But he wouldn’t be. He has taken care of us for so long, too long actually. I should have kicked him out long ago"

"So your plan is for me to get pregnant, so his obligation will shift"

"I told you I want grandchildren. This is a selfish conquest"

"Sure it is" Sheridan smiled. "but it would be kind of nice to carry Luis’s child" she retook her spoon in hand and continued on the soup.

"You two would make beautiful babies"

"What’s all this talk about babies?" Theresa asked as she waltzed happily into the room. "Mmm what smells good?" She walked to the stove and took a bite full.

"NO" Pilar yelled but it was too late she had swallowed.

"What mama?" Theresa was a little scared at her mother’s reaction.

"Nothing. Well lets go to that movie I promised you" Pilar rose from the table.

"That’s what I came to tell you mama. I can’t go anymore. I have a date tonight" she kissed her mother on the cheek and scurried out the door.

"What have I done?" Pilar asked face pointed to the ceiling.

Chapter 16:

Luis backed away from the computer screen. He tossed his head in his hands and groaned. It didn’t seem like things could get more complicated, but they just had. He turned back around and forced himself to look at the screen again. And sure enough it was still the same man on the screen. He wasn’t just imagining things.

"No it just can’t be" Luis argued.

"I’m sorry Luis, but it looks to be that way" Sam informed him.

"No you don’t understand Sam" Luis started to explain. "The last thing Julian said before he died was that he killed my father. So how is it that my father is the one who killed Julian?"

"Are you sure that is what Julian said?"

"Yes he said he knew he was going to die and needed to clear his conscience"

"Luis, he was probably delusional. This is concrete proof that your father is still alive"

"I don’t know what is worse. Thinking that he is dead or that he is a criminal. How am I going to tell mama?"

"It’s better that she know the truth. You don’t want to lie to her"

"You’re right Sam, but I don’t know how I am going to do it"

"Go home Luis. Go home to Sheridan"

"We live with my mom. I don’t know how I am going to look her in the eye"

"You’ll figure something out"

Luis grabbed his coat and headed out of the police station. How was he going to have to go home sometime. He might as well get it over with now. He drove the speed limit the whole way home, not ever going any above it.

Sheridan and Pilar sat at the table. Sheridan was stuffed from Pilar and Sophie’s soup and was now enjoying coffee with Pilar. She still couldn’t believe that Pilar had the idea in her mind that if she got pregnant Luis would be able to live his own life. Didn’t Pilar know how many unwanted complications that would bring right now? But then again maybe Pilar knew something she didn’t. Sophie came down freshly showered and in a t-shirt and boxers. She joined the ladies at the table and Pilar poured her some coffee.

"How did you like the soup Sheridan?" Sophie asked as she stifled a giggle.

"It was delicious. It was a low down trick, but still delicious" Sheridan smiled. "Pilar did you know Sophie when she worked at the mansion?"

"Not very well. She had only been there a couple of months before she was fired"

"Then how is it that I remember her so well?" Sheridan asked.

"Sheridan I was sixteen when I worked for your family. You followed my around like a puppy. I treated you like my little sister and you ate it up" Sophie answered.

"So we spent a lot of time together while you were there?"

"Yes Sheridan we did. We went to the park almost everyday. I thought you were so sweet to send me your allowance every week"

"She has always had a heart of gold" Pilar interjected.

"Thank you" Sheridan smiled. "How old are your children?"

"My goodness you are still that curious little girl aren’t you?" Sophie and Pilar shared a chuckle. "Luke is almost 11 now and Hannah she is already 20"

"20?" Pilar questioned. "You must have been just a baby when you had her"

"I had just turned 17. But Paul, that was my husband, was great about everything"

"I’m glad he stuck with you" Pilar said happily.

"Not exactly Pilar. Paul adopted Hannah, she wasn’t his daughter by birth. I met him when I was 22"

"I don’t know how you young girls raise children on your own. You were still a child yourself" Pilar concluded.

"Sophie?" Sheridan had been quiet through this part of the conversation until now. She was soaking up information.

"Yes Sheridan?"

"Is Alistair or Julian the father?" it wasn’t a question of were either of them the father but which. Sophie had become pregnant when she worked at the mansion.

"Still as smart as a whip I see too" Sophie cast her eyes down not really wanting to answer. "Hannah is Alistair’s daughter"

"Does he know about her?" Sheridan kept questioning Sophie.

"Yes he does, but wanted nothing to do with her"

"Then I have a sister" Sheridan’s smile lit up the room. "I have always wanted one. Can I meet her when this is over?"

"Yes of coarse Sheridan. Hannah would love to meet you too. Although you mustn’t tell her you are her sister. She thinks Paul was her real father"

"I understand" Sheridan still smiled.

"I think I am going to go to bed now" Sophie announce through a yawn. "Could you show me where to sleep"

"You can have Miguel’s room tonight" Pilar offered. "He is staying over at Reese’s tonight" Pilar got up and showed Sophie to her room.

Luis had finally made it home, in record time. The slowest time possible that is. He walked into the kitchen hoping that his mother was already in bed. Then at least he could wait to tell her until the morning. As luck would have it he only found Sheridan in the kitchen. He was hopeful. Especially when she bounded into his arms as soon as he opened the door.

"Luis, I have a sister" she giggled.

"Excuse me?" he looked at her like she had grown a second head.

"I have so much to tell you Luis. Come sit down" she pulled him over to the table and pushed him down into a chair. "Do you want some coffee?"

"Did you make it?"

"No"

"Then yes" Luis smirked.

"You’re gonna pay for that"

"I hope so" he raised his eyebrows playfully. "Now tell me how you’re family just increased in size"

"Well you remember Sophie from earlier today right?" she place the mug in front of him and sat across the table.

"Yes" he replied taking a sip.

"Well it turns out while she was working for us, she was also working for my father so to speak"

"Meaning she slept with him"

"Yes, but he probably manipulated her into thinking he loved her"

"I don’t doubt it" he continued to drink he coffee knowing this was going to be a long night. He had no doubt in his mind that Sheridan would want an explanation of today.

"Well she had a daughter, my half sister. Her name is Hannah and she is 20 now"

"20?" Luis nearly choked. "Sophie didn’t look old enough to have a 20 year old daughter"

"She was 17 when she had her"

"So we are talking about statutory rape here?" Luis’s cop mind kicked in.

"Oh my god! I never thought about it, but yes"

"Where is Sophie now?"

"In Miguel’s room sleeping"

"Great she didn’t leave"

"Nope. And here’s the kicker. She didn’t leave because she was pregnant. She was forced to leave by my father after she overheard him order Julian to kill one of his workers"

"You’re kidding"

"No Luis, I’m not. It’s all falling into place. We are going to have my father’s head on a platter"

It depressed Luis that she was so optimistic. But it was true, everything seemed to be falling into place for her, but not him. He couldn’t help but feel a little jealous. Life didn’t seem fair. They were finally overcoming one problem just to be sideswiped by another. Did Julian kill his father all those years ago or did his father just kill Julian? He knew she wanted to get her own apartment and he wanted to go with her, but how could he leave his family now. They were going to need him more than ever now. But he couldn’t force her to stay, or wait for him until his family was ready to let him go. It wasn’t fair for her to have to wait. More and more it was looking like he was going to do the same thing he did with Beth. Only this time was different. He used his family as an excuse to break up with Beth. He was really in love with Sheridan. How was he supposed to do this? He couldn’t break her heart but he asked her to put her life on hold for him either. It was a lose, lose situation.

Chapter 17:

Sheridan noticed that Luis seemed to be deep in thought. She also noticed he didn’t seem to share in her happiness. She began to see the darkness creep into Luis’s eyes. She got out of her chair and walked towards him. He didn’t seem to see her. She climbed into his lap still not being notice.

"Luis?" there was no answer. "Come on snap out of it" he still stared ahead. She waved her hand in front of his face and still he didn’t so much as flinch. Finally she leaned in and brushed her lips against his. At first he didn’t respond but slowly he began to sink into the kiss. Gasping for breath they broke apart.

"What was that for?" Luis said in a happy daze.

"Where were you?"

"I’m sorry I was just thinking"

"About what?"

"Nothing important" Luis sighed.

"Nothing important? Luis I was about to slap you. You didn’t even notice when I sat in your lap. What’s going on with you? Please don’t shut me out"

"You’re right we need to talk, but not here"

"You said that earlier" Sheridan said feeling dejected.

"No" he lifted her chin. "I don’t want anyone to walk in on us. We need to be somewhere private"

"Come on" Sheridan jumped up and grabbed Luis’s arm making him follow her.

"Where are we going?" he asked as he was dragged upstairs.

"Pack a bag for the night" she ordered as she did the same. Then she grabbed his arm again and took him back down the stairs and out the door. They got into his car.

"Drive" she again ordered.

"Where exactly am I driving?" Luis asked as he backed out of the driveway.

"The Harmony Hilton. And don’t even think about objecting. I am paying for a room. The smallest one if you prefer me not to spend too much money. We are going to talk. You are not going to get out of it. I want to know what is going on with you. You’re getting lost in your thoughts and you are scaring me"

"I don’t mean to scare you. Get whatever size room you like. It’s your money, spend it as you wish"

As a compromise Sheridan paid for a room that was neither a box nor a penthouse. It was one large room with a king size bed and a bathroom. It was normal. She smiled when they walked inside. Luis was surprised. He looked in the closet expecting it to be a porthole to the rest of the room. He looked at her with a confused expression.

"It’s a compromise" she stated before he asked.

"Huh?" he retorted still perplexed.

"I know you don’t like me spending my money on you, or us. But Luis it can’t be helped. So I got this modest room, hoping neither of us would feel out of place"

"You’re terrific you know that?" he walked up to her and kissed her on the nose.

"I know" she smiled. "Now let’s get down to business"

Alistair sat at his desk in the Crane library throwing a fit. He had just been informed of Julian’s demise. The police department wanted him back at the station in the morning for another round of questioning. How could they even think that he would kill his own son. He laughed evilly. Okay so it wasn’t so beyond him. But the truth of the matter was he didn’t do it nor did he order it. The phone rang and he debated answering it. It could be the start of an endless stream of reporters. Finally the ringing began to annoy him so he picked up the receiver.

"Alistair Crane" he announced as he lit a cigar.

"Have you heard the news?" the man on the other end said.

"What news? Who is this?" Alistair barked.

"Your son. He is no longer part of the land of the living"

"Yes I know, but I’ll ask again who are you?"

"The man who took your son away from you"

"What did Julian do to you?" Alistair clearly didn’t care that Julian was dead. He just wondered what Julian did to deserve it.

"He took my wife away from me"

"Ahhh" he puffed his cigar. "Your wife was one on the many maids Julian has had his way with"

"Yeah something like that"

"So you’re calling to gloat is that it?" Alistair was quickly losing his patience.

"No. I called to warn you that your daughter is next"

"And you think I care?"

"Why wouldn’t you she is your daughter"

"That might be true but she is nothing but a thorn in my side. She is out to bring about my downfall. She believes I am evil. She and her good for nothing, low life boy toy, have it set in their mind that I belong in prison. In fact after you take care of my daughter would you do me a favor and take care of her cop boyfriend too? His name is Luis Lopez-Fitz…" The dial tone sounded in Alistair’s ear. "I guess he changed his mind" he took another puff and laughed.

Luis had just finished recounting the tale of Julian’s last words and the face on the tape. She just stared at him not sure what to say. They were seated at the small coffee table under one of the windows. They had ordered room service and all that was left were scraps on the plates. Sheridan twirled her fork around still trying to piece things together.

"So that was why you weren’t happy when I told you about Sophie. Our problems are nowhere near over" Sheridan concluded.

"That among other things"

"What other things?"

"Are you sure you want to know?" Luis questioned.

"Yes of coarse. I want to know anything and everything that is troubling you"

"Okay" he took a deep breath and let it go slowly. "I’m scared" he admitted.

"About what Luis?"

"About our future"

"What is there to be scared of? We are going to grow old together. Aren’t we?"

"I want that but…"

"But nothing" She interrupted. "If that is what both of want then it WILL happen"

"Sheridan, you want to get your own apartment. I don’t want you to leave, but I know how important it is for to have your own place"

"Come with me then" she offered.

"I want to but you know I can’t. I can’t abandon my family" he reminded her.

"Luis you need to have a talk with your mother" she said remembering her talk with Pilar earlier tonight.

"I know. I have to tell her about papa"

"Not only that but tell her about you wanting to come with me"

"I can’t hurt her like that. The situation with papa is bad enough"

"Luis, you’d be surprised at your mother’s reaction. We talked tonight before you came home"

"About what?"

"About us and your feeling of responsibly towards your family"

"What did she say?"

"I think that is something you need to discuss with her. I will tell you this though she and Sophie fixed me some soup"

"That’s great Sheridan. I’m glad you got something to eat"

"You didn’t let me finish. It was a special soup"

"Made with magically beans?" Luis jabbed.

"Do you want hear this or not"

"Well it seems important to you, so yes please continue"

"It was a Mexican fertility soup"

"A WHAT???"

"That was my reaction too" she laughed.

"But why? Why would she want you to get pregnant? She believes in the sanctity of marriage"

"She said she was being selfish and wanted grandkids. But again you are going to have to talk to her"

"Oh boy the talk with mama tomorrow is going to be so much fun"

"I bet you want to get in bed right now and get some sleep. Then tomorrow will come sooner"

"You are soo funny. By the way how much of that soup did you eat?"

"A whole bowl. Why?"

"Well we have this room for the whole night to ourselves. No interruptions or family next door. We could take advantage of the situation" Luis winked at her and started to stand.

"Not so fast lover boy. We aren’t finished yet" Luis slumped back down in his chair.

"What could we possibly have left?" Luis groaned.

"I have one final question"

"Shoot"

"If you had to choose between me and your family who would you choose?" Sheridan bit her lip while she waited for his answer.

Chapter 18:

Luis looked at Sheridan unsure how to answer her question. He never thought he had a choice and now she was giving it to him. Not that his choice would matter much though, he would always do what he thought he had to, not what he wanted to do.

"Sheridan, I don’t know how to answer that" Luis admitted.

"This is just a what if, hypothetical thing" she explained. "I need to know if you could choose to come with me, if things were different"

"In a heartbeat" Luis said with conviction.

"Then listen to me when I say this. Are you listening?"

"Yes"

"I will wait for you forever if I have to because you are the only one I am ever going to want to be with"

"Sheridan I can’t let you put your life on hold for me"

"Why not? You would do it for me if the roles were reversed wouldn’t you?"

"Yes, I would do anything for you but…"

"But nothing. If I have to live by myself for awhile and just have occasional sleepovers with you, I will. I will make the most of the time we share together. Like tonight" she wiggled her eyebrows at him.

"Sheridan…"

"Shut up Luis" she pulled him into a heated kiss and he knew he had lost this argument. She was going to stick to him like glue until his family was taken care of. He didn’t want her to wait for him, but he was glad she was so determined to be with him. This was one battle he was glad he lost.

Martin paced his room. He had just thrown the receiver back on the cradle after his talk with Alistair Crane. He couldn’t believe his ears. How could this be true? How could his son be involved with the daughter of the devil? He knew in his mind that Luis must love Sheridan because of the last report on his family he received Luis still hated the Cranes with a passion. To be involved with one meant she must be really special to him. What was he going to do now? He couldn’t take the love of his life away from his son. He vowed to keep his family from experiencing any more pain. And that is why he was determined to bring down the Cranes. And wouldn’t Alistair be surprised to see him. They thought he was dead. Julian’s face was priceless when he entered the jail cell and shook him awake. He thought he was seeing a ghost. A man he killed had come back to torture him. He should have let him live and just made occasional visits to him to drive him mad but he could get a hold of his anger. And then he just blacked out. When he came back to Julian was on the ground and not breathing. Thinking on his feet Martin made it look like a suicide attempt. He quickly left the cell regaining his composure. He looked back to see if Julian was going to come to like he hoped, but it didn’t seem to be true. He had killed Julian. It was all over the news. Well in all fairness Julian killed him. An eye for an eye right? So now he was set on torturing Alistair and bringing about his demise. He didn’t want to kill him too. That would be the easy way out for Alistair. He wanted him to rot in jail. But that meant he needed to keep his distance because if his anger took control he couldn’t control the consequences. The blackouts took over when his anger reigned over him. Maybe tomorrow would be the right time to reunite with his family. He wanted his presence to be known. He knew word would get to Alistair and throw him for a loop. After all they would never know it was him who killed Julian. He did his homework. He knew where every camera was and how it was positioned in the police station. He kept his face hidden. He was sure of it. Yes, tomorrow he would see his beloved wife and children, minus Antonio and Paloma. He knew he would never see Antonio again, but he hoped Paloma would return for his homecoming. Tomorrow would be great. It would be his rebirth.

Alistair sat and puffed on another cigar. It was his second in a row. He wasn’t always a chain smoker, just when he was pensive. He was deep in thought now wondering who was after his family. Who that phone call was from? The man had threatened Sheridan’s life, not that he cared all that much anymore. It was an obvious attempt to get at him though. The person didn’t know he despised his daughter for everything she was doing to him now. So the question was who else wanted him knocked off his pedestal and dared to go against him. Sure a lot of people hated him, but most of them were afraid of him and would never act on their hatred. He didn’t know of anyone that would be stupid enough to cross him, besides his daughter and why she threaten herself. Anyway it had been a man’s voice and not Luis’s either. It could be some sort of trick and maybe he answered it just how they wanted him to. No, it couldn’t be that simple. Yes Sheridan and Luis were gunning for him but they were using the circumstances of that night to try and break him. Why would they change their strategy now? It had to be someone else. Maybe someone from his past. Someone who had forgotten how really powerful he is. That must be it. Finally he grew tired of thinking and he had just smoked his last cigar. Whoever had called if they really wanted to get to him would call back. And he would have some threats of his own this time.

Sheridan and Luis were nested in each other’s arms in bed. They had both had quite a day and as if that hadn’t been enough they took advantage of being alone. They had made love three times and now could barely keep their eyes open. Their breathing began to even out as they both came down from their highs.

"We need to do this more often" Luis suggested.

"As soon as I get my own place we will" she replied happily. "Does this prove to you that you have nothing to worry about us? I will be here for you always and you shouldn’t feel guilty about asking me to wait"

"Yes, now that I know that we will be together forever I can put my mind at ease and concentrate on the less important things"

"Don’t you mean more important?"

"Nothing is more important than us. But they do need to be taken care of"

"Yes and post haste. I want us together and in paradise"

"I think I am close to that now" Luis chuckled.

"Guys, they all think with their…"

"Don’t even finish that" Luis warned. "Tell me you are not in paradise after what we just did"

"I…I…" Sheridan stammered. She knew she was caught.

"You what?" he pushed.

"I can’t" she surrendered. "This is paradise. You and me, alone, in bed, naked" she sighed. "WAIT. I want my white flag back"

"What? This isn’t paradise?"

"No"

"You thought of something better?" Luis said hurtfully.

"Nope. This isn’t paradise, it’s heaven. My own little piece of heaven" she smiled knowing she had just beat him at his game.

"You’re incorrigible" he laughed and squeezed her tighter. This caused her to giggle and Luis to smile even bigger. He hadn’t heard her enjoy life at all today and he was happy that he could be the one to brighten her day. He kissed her on the forehead and sighed peacefully. "Let’s get some sleep angel"

"Angel huh?"

"Well if we’re in heaven then you are my personal angel"

"You’re too sweet for your own good do you know that?"

"Never"

"Ok, we have a big day tomorrow. Let’s try and get some sleep"

"Try?"

"I don’t want to keep my hands off of you" she smiled seductively and then yawned.

"How convincing" Luis laughed. "Look what if I promise you that I will spend a whole weekend with you in your new apartment as soon as you sign the lease?"

"I’d say, goodnight Luis" she closed her eyes and within seconds was asleep. Luis soon followed but not before he thought of tomorrow. He had to tell his mother about his father and Julian’s murder. He also wanted to get Sophie to talk to Sam. The sooner he had her statement the better and that would be one less problem to deal with. He looked over at Sheridan one last time and sighed "goodnight angel" as he drifted to slumber land.

Chapter 19:

Sheridan and Luis woke in the morning still tangled in each other’s arms. She woke first and stared at the sleeping Luis. She traced his jaw line with her fingertip. He sighed in happiness causing her to giggle. She continued to run her finger along his face, running it over his eyelids, nose and mouth. While her finger was over his mouth his eyes fluttered open.

"Good morning sweetie" she whispered before replacing her finger with her lips.

"Morning beautiful" he sighed again.

"I love when you do that" she rolled off him and retrieved a hotel robe.

"When I do what?" he propped himself on his elbow.

"Sigh" she secured the belt around herself. "I know it is because you are completely content. It makes me feel all tingly inside"

"Why don’t you come back to be and I’ll make you feel something else"

"As much as I would love to, we have more to do than we did yesterday. So get up so I can see what I am missing" she demanded.

"Ok" he smiled seductively as he shed his sheet and walked to where she was standing.

"Do we have time for a shower first?" she asked losing focus on what had to be done.

"Always" he said leading her to the bathroom.

They showered, which took longer than expected, dressed and were off to the Lopez-Fitzgerald home. They walked into the kitchen hand in hand, laughing.

"Who knew soap could be so fun huh?" Luis wiggled his eyebrows. "Oh hi mom"

"Morning Luis, Sheridan. Did you have a nice night?" she hoped they would spare her the details. The mention of the soap was more than enough.

"Morning mama" he walked over and kissed her cheek. "Yes last night was wonderful"

"Is Sophie up yet?" Sheridan asked.

"Yes she is helping Theresa with her hair" Pilar answered.

"Thank you Pilar" she also walked over and kissed Pilar’s cheek. "I’m going to leave you two to talk. I have some business to discuss with Sophie" she gave Luis a peck on the lips and left.

"What was that about?"

"We need to talk Mama"

"About?" she got up and started to get him a cup of coffee.

"Papa"

"Luis you know I don’t like to…"

"Mama" he interrupted. "Papa is either dead or here in Harmony" the new shocked her, causing the mug of hot liquid to tumble to the floor.

Sheridan made her way up the stairs. She could hear Sophie and Theresa laughing. Theresa had to about the same age as Sophie daughter Hannah. Sheridan hated keeping their family apart. Hopefully this would all be over soon. She knocked lightly on the door.

"What’s so funny?" she asked as she entered the room.

"Sheridan! Perfect timing!" Theresa shrieked. They were both laughing so hard they were crying.

"What’s up?" Sheridan asked as she flopped on the bed.

"Don’t sit please" Sophie continued to laugh. "We need help"

"With?" Sheridan asked as she walked closer to them.

"This" Sophie announced as she lifted her hand which she had somehow braided into Theresa’s hair.

"How?" Sheridan shook her head and laughed as she started to pull at Theresa’s hair.

"Don’t ask" Theresa mused.

Sheridan finished freeing Sophie’s hands and asked to have some time alone with Sophie. Theresa obliged and even let them use her room. She left to go to Whitney’s. Sophie noticed the serious look in Sheridan’s eyes and wasn’t sure if she was going to like this conversation.

"Sophie it’s time" Sheridan announced.

"Time for what"

"I need you to talk to the police"

"Okay well bring them over" she said compliantly.

"No Sophie, we need to go to the police station and make it official"

"No, absolutely not! Alistair has spies everywhere and if he knows I am here I don’t want to think of what could happen"

"Nothing will happen Sophie. We are going to talk to a very nice man. Sam Bennett, he is the chief of police and Luis’s best friend. He won’t .."

"Save your breath Sheridan" she interrupted. "I can’t risk my children’s lives"

Luis helped his mother clean the mess on the floor. He wasn’t surprised at her reaction. She kept questioned how he knew this. And how it could be true. He told her about how Julian confessed to Martin’s murder right before he died. And his mother nearly broke down. He couldn’t be dead, she always had hope until that. He sat with her on the floor. He then proceeded to tell her that a man who he recognized as his father was the one who killed Julian. She prayed in Spanish and refused to believe either one of the possibilities were true. Luis tried to comfort her and tell her that more than likely one of them was true but she refused to listen. She went to her candle and lit it like she had so many times before. Luis hated to see his mother this way but she had a right to know.

"Please, mama you have to understand. I wouldn’t tell you this if I didn’t think part of it were true"

"Martin is not a criminal, nor is he dead" she protested.

"Your love for him blinds you mama"

"And what of YOUR love for him?"

"I don’t remember him. I have love for a man who only exists to a 12-year-old boy. My childhood innocence is gone"

"Luis, you must believe in your father. He is a good man"

"I’m sorry mama but that might not be true"

Upstairs Sheridan continued to try and convince Sophie to go to the police stations and give her statement. It wasn’t going very well and for every reason Sheridan gave Sophie refused to listen. She wanted to help but she didn’t want anyone more to know she was in town. She was beginning to think that she had made a mistake staying here at all. Sheridan wasn’t about to give up though.

"Sophie, listen to me. If you give Sam your statement you can live your life without fear. You won’t have to look over your shoulder anymore. If you tell Sam about Hannah he can arrest Alistair right away. Not to mention when you tell him what you heard. If we get Alistair in prison he will powerless"

"The only way Alistair will be powerless is if he is dead"

"Who know when Julian went to jail he was killed"

"Really?" Sophie sounded hopeful.

"Look Sophie. You stayed here to help us. So help. Come give Sam your statement"

"Fine. Let’s get it over with then"

Sheridan and Sophie went downstairs to collect Luis, but when they walked in the kitchen they were sorry they had. Pilar was in a chair crying and Luis was trying to comfort her but she was not letting him get anywhere near her. She kept swatting at him and yelling him to get away. Sheridan knew she wasn’t taking his news well. Still in the doorway Sheridan motioned for Luis to come to her.

"Luis, I am going to take Sophie to the station"

"Okay I’ll meet you there in awhile. I can’t leave now"

"I didn’t expect you to. I’ll see you soon" she squeezed his hand and left.

Alistair crane sat tapping his fingers on the desk. He had been at the police station for fifteen minutes and still no one came to talk to him. He was becoming irritated and continued to drum his fingers. Finally Sam poked his head out of his office and invited Alistair in for a chat. Alistair didn’t have any choice but to oblige.

"Look, I didn’t kill my son. Nor did I hire someone to do it for me. Can I go now?"

"I have a few more questions if you don’t mind" Sam gave him a death glare. He did not like this man one bit. "Where were you last night?"

"I was at the mansion"

"Did anyone see you?"

"Yes of coarse, we have a plethora of maids"

"And how many of the maids did you have last night?"

"Why? Jealous? But yes there is one in particular that can vouch for me. Her name is Daphne"

"Very well. Did you talk on the phone last night?"

"Yes, actually I did. What of it? Did you talk on the phone last night?"

"This would go a lot faster if you were more cooperative"

The interrogation was going no where fast. Sheridan and Sophie had arrived at the station and were asked to wait for Sam. They were told he was in with a thug at the moment. The officer had interrupted Sam’s meeting to tell him Sheridan was there and he was relieved for the break. He told Alistair to stay put and went to talk to Sheridan.

"Sheridan you look much better today" he gave her a protective hug.

"Thank you Sam. I had a very restful night" she smiled.

"I’m sure you did" he smiled back. "Who is this?"

"Sam this is Sophie, Sophie Sam. She has some interesting things to tell you"

Alistair recognized his daughters voice and got up to see what she was up to now. More trouble he bet. There was another woman next to her. The other woman was older but beautiful. She looked at little familiar. But then he heard Sheridan say her name and it clicked. She was the little muffin he fell hard for, but also the one who heard too much. What was she doing back in town? And more importantly what was she doing with his daughter. He walked out of the room to make himself noticed. He cleared his throat. Sophie saw him and froze.

"Alistair!" Sophie gasped.

Luis had successfully gotten Pilar to calm down. She was now drinking a cup of tea. She had told Luis to get down to the station. She wanted some time alone to think. She assured him she would be all right. Luis finally relented and told her he would be back for dinner tonight. He even offered to make it if she wanted. She refused explaining was a stress release for her. He again kissed her cheek and got his jacket. He was about to leave when there was a knock on the front door. Luis told her he would get it before he left. She asked if it was for her to tell them to come back later. She was a mess now and didn’t wish to see anyone. Luis opened the door and his mouth fell to the floor. He tried to say something to the man but nothing came out.

"Mama!" Luis yelled and it sent Pilar running into the room.

"Martin?" Pilar fainted dead away when she saw him at the door.

Chapter 20:

Luis rushed to his mother’s side. He waved his hand in front of her face trying to make her come to. Martin stood in the doorway watching from a far. He didn’t want Pilar to wake up only to faint again. He had waited for this moment for a very long time. He dreamed of this woman every night and could wait to kiss her again. He would have to wait a little longer though. Pilar finally began to blink and regain consciousness.

"Mama" Luis shook her gently. "Mama, wake up"

"Luis, I…" she started out warily. "Martin, is he here?"

"Yes he is here. You weren’t imagining him"

He coaxed her hair and she struggled to stand. Martin entered the room and Pilar suddenly got a burst of energy. She ran to be in his arms. She hugged him with everything she could find within her. He hugged her back fiercely, glad to have her where she belonged.

"You’re home" she whispered.

"I’m home" Martin confirmed.

"See Luis, I told you he would return. I never gave up hope. Never" tears began to stream over her face.

"I knew you would never give up on me" Martin said proudly. He brought his lips to hers and kissed her with the passion that had been dead in him since he left.

Luis watched on with a heavy heart. His mother had just got what she had always wanted, his father to come home. But he knew he couldn’t just sit there and let him come back into their lives without an interrogation. And unfortunately he wouldn’t be the one performing it. It was a matter for the police. His father was now a wanted man. What unnerved Luis though was that his father didn’t seem nervous in any way that he was in the room with a cop. Maybe he didn’t know his son had become one, or maybe he didn’t know he had been caught on tape. No matter how he looked at it though, Luis knew he had to break his mother’s heart and take Martin to the station for questioning.

"I hate to break this up" Luis started and Pilar and Martin broke from their kiss and turned to him. "But Papa I need you to come with me"

"Luis NO!" Pilar protested knowing what Luis was talking about.

"Go where Slugger?" Luis cringer when he heard his childhood nickname.

"I have to take you to the police station" Luis said holding his emotions in check. His words were sterile and cold.

"Whatever for?" Martin did his best to look confused.

"You know why. Don’t make this any harder than this already is on me" he pleaded.

"Luis don’t do this. Do not break up our family again" Pilar said sternly.

"I am not the one who did anything wrong" Luis rebuffed. "And if Papa didn’t either than he will be home later tonight"

"Slugger you don’t understand. You can’t take me in, I am your father!" Martin reiterated.

"No, you don’t understand. I have to take you in. It is my job" Luis returned.

"Look at what you are doing to your mother" Martin pointed to Pilar who was no curled in a ball on the couch crying. "I thought I taught you to have more respect for your parents"

"I do respect Mama. She is the bravest woman alive. As for you that is another story" Luis said heatedly.

"Don’t do this to her, don’t do this to Theresa, or Miguel, or Paloma" Martin insisted.

"I…I…" Martin had hit a soft spot. His younger siblings were his life he would do anything to spare them pain.

"Luis promise me you won’t arrest me" he urged.

"I…promise" Luis caved. "I have to go meet Sheridan" he said in a hurry. He was disgusted with himself and couldn’t stand to be in the room any longer. He was out the door and in his car before they had a chance to refuse.

Sophie stood glued to one spot on the floor. Alistair kept inching closer and closer to her. He looked at her with daggers shooting out his eyes. He didn’t expect to see her here and he was furious she had the courage to show her face in Harmony ever again. He walked up to her and stopped inches in front of her. Sam had to restrain Sheridan from getting between him. Sam needed to see what was going to play out between them.

"What the hell are you doing here Sophie?" Alistair spat at her.

"I came to take care of something I should have a long time ago" she replied bravely.

"You better not say a word or I will follow through on my promise to kill you and our daughter. What was the little bastard’s name again? Helen? No, no, Hannah" evilness seethed through his mouth and caused her to back up.

"You will nothing to Hannah" Sophie screamed.

"You obviously learned nothing in the time you spent at the mansion. I don’t make idle threats" he huffed.

Sam had had enough. He stepped behind Alistair and slapped some cuffs on his wrists. Alistair swirled around and looked at Sam like he was an alien.

"What do you think you are doing?" Alistair barked.

"You just threatened to kill two people. What do you think I am doing?" Sam smiled knowing he had won this time at least.

"I did nothing of the sort" he tried to get out of the hole he dug for himself.

"We all heard you" Sam said happily. "You should really control that mouth of yours" he dared him to say something else. Sam had another officer take Alistair into a cell. "I’m sorry I let him scare you Sophie" he apologized.

"It’s ok" Sophie replied still shaken from the encounter.

"No it’s not, you shouldn’t have had to hear that, but I was hoping he would be caught off guard and slip up. I was right he did, but I didn’t expect him to threaten you or your daughter"

"I know. I’ll be all right. Can I just give you my statement now?" she was eager to get out of the same place that housed Alistair.

"Of coarse, we can use my office" Sam led Sophie into the room. "Sheridan are you coming?" he noticed her still perched in the same spot, staring out the window.

"No, Luis should be here soon. I want to talk to him. If Sophie needs me just come and get me" Sheridan responded. Sam went into his office and proceeded to take Sophie’s statement.

Luis walked into the station and straight past Sheridan. He didn’t even notice she was sitting right next to the door. She had to run behind him and grab his arm to get him to take notice. He turned and as soon as he saw who she was he pulled her tightly to him. He threw his head on her shoulders and clung to her for dear life. Sheridan didn’t know what was going on but she just held him for a moment rubbing small circles on his back.

"I need coffee" he finally broke the silence, although this wasn’t exactly what Sheridan wanted to hear.

"I’ll get you some" she offered. "Go sit at your desk" she pushed him in that direction.

"Thank you" he slumped into his chair.

"Here you go. Just the way you like it" she came back and handed him the Styrofoam cup and sat on his desk. "I take it the conversation with your mother didn’t go so well"

"That actually wasn’t so terrible. The terrible part happened when my father came to the door" he said quietly.

"Martin is here?" she exclaimed.

"SHHHH!!!" he warned her.

"Sorry. Luis why didn’t you bring him here? You know he is a wanted man"

"I couldn’t do that to my family. I couldn’t take him away from them again" he said regretfully.

"Is this what you feel, or what Martin told you to feel?"

"Did I ever tell you how smart you are?" Luis said proudly.

"Let me guess you wanted to take him in and he convinced you not to" she continued with her theory.

"Bingo"

"Luis, you cited Pilar for jaywalking to set an example for your siblings. What kind of example would this set? And if he is guilty, do you want your family around a criminal?"

"God, I wish you had been there with me. Maybe then I wouldn’t have been such a coward" he said shamefully.

"You are not a coward! Put you wanted him so much to be the man you remember, but Luis he just may not be. You have to tell Sam"

"What would I do without you?" he set his head in her lap and she stroked her fingers through her hair.

"You won’t ever have to find out" she promised.

"Where is Sam?" he asked still letting his head rest in her lap.

"Taking Sophie’s statement. They should be done soon though"

"I can’t take the chance that Martin will flee. Quinlin, Stone" he yelled across the room and they came running over to him. Luis refused to lift his head. "Go to my house and arrest my father. Martin Fitzgerald is alive and you’ll find him there" Quinlin and Stone ran from the office and they soon heard sirens cruising down the street.

"You did the right thing you know?" Sheridan assured him as she bent and kissed his temple.

"I hope so" he replied voice full of despair and heartache.

Chapter 21:

Sheridan and Luis still sat at Luis desk. Luis was still completely depressed by the whole situation. Even his favorite pastime, bonding with Sheridan, wasn’t helping him emerge from the darkness. They had changed positions, Luis was no longer resting his head on her lap, she was now sitting on his lap with her neck nuzzled in the crook of his neck. She tried to console him by whispering sweet nothings into his ear but he was not there and she didn’t know how to bring him back. She finally gave up on talking and just held him. It was all she could to let him know she was there for him. After while Luis started to come out his shell.

"Do you ski?" he seemed to spurt nonsense.

"I used to" she looked at him like he lost his mind.

"But not anymore" he continued.

"Not since I broke my leg" she admitted.

"Are you ever going to try again?" he probed.

"Eventually yes, it happened the winter before I moved back here. And last winter I was a bit preoccupied" she thought she saw a slight smile start to form on his lips. "Where is this coming from Luis?"

"I was just thinking" he paused and she wasn’t sure he was going to continue but when she was going to ask about what he moved on. "After all this dies down, I think we deserve a break. Will you go away with me?"

"Yes, of coarse" she answered without second thought. "And you want to go skiing?"

"It was just a thought. I will take you anywhere you want to go. Within reason that is. A trip to the moon might be a bit much"

"Don’t tease, that might be a reality soon"

Their happy thoughts about a vacation were squashed when the door flung open and in walked Quinlin and Stone. Martin was in cuffs between them and Pilar was following behind in tears. Martin dug his heels into the floor as soon as he entered the station. He didn’t want to be there that is for sure and he wasn’t going to make it easy for them. Amidst his struggles he caught glimpse of his son and became even more enraged.

"You promised!" he bellowed. "You are not my son! My son would have kept his word. I disown you. You are dead to me!"

Quinlin and Stone managed to kept Martin in check physically. They led him back to a cell. Sheridan felt Luis go cold reacting to his father. She knew this was tearing him up inside but it was his job to uphold the law. His conscience would have ate away at him if he had hid his father. Sheridan rubbed his arm trying to warm him and she had whispered for him to breathe because he had been holding his breath. Pilar walked over to Luis’s desk and he immediately stood to greet her. The last thing either of them wanted was to fight. They would need each other to get through this.

"I’m sorry Mama" he apologized.

"No hijo, I am the one that is sorry. I should have never put you in that situation" Luis moved around his desk and gave his mother a hug.

"You didn’t cause the problem Mama, Papa did"

"But I didn’t help or stop it Luis. I was blinded by the love I had for Martin. I am glad you could see through it"

"The love you had?" Sheridan caught he subtle slip of the tongue.

"I must face the fact that the Martin I knew and loved may not exist anymore" she replied as sadness weighed heavily in her eyes. Luis sat his mother in a chair, he also pulled one up for himself and another for Sheridan. They conversed over what to do next.

Martin was put in a cell across from Alistair. Alistair looked as though he had seen a ghost. Never in his wildest dreams did he expect to see a dead man in the cell across from him. But there he was, as plain as day, looking directly into his eyes. Their eyes shared the same coldness, the same hatred for life. And suddenly they felt this odd connection.

"I never thought I would see you again" Alistair stated.

"I knew I would see you again, I just wish it was under different circumstances" Martin seethed.

"I take it you are the one who phoned me. And Julian’s demise was your doing"

"I should have killed my son not yours. At least Julian wouldn’t have turned me in"

"I see you passed your morality on to your son. But you seemed to lose it during the years"

"The years of the need for revenge overshadows any morality a man may have"

"How did you do it?" Alistair inquires.

"What? Kill Jules?"

"No, live?"

"A miracle really, or I suppose I just got lucky"

"Yes, I suppose"

"Why are you here anyway?"

"Various reasons really. All caused by my loving daughter along with the help of your son"

"Ah yes, Pilar told me they were quite the pair. It doesn’t look good for either of us does it?"

"It doesn’t appear so" Alistair replied in defeat. "But maybe there is something we can do together?" Martin thought he could see the gears turning in Alistair’s head.

Sam led Sophie out of his office beaming. He looked as though he had hugged her many times already. He saw the solemn faces of Sheridan, Luis and Pilar and instantly knew something wasn’t right. He moved across the room quickly and they all stood when he arrived.

"All finished?" Sheridan asked Sophie as she came closer. Sam continued to eye the three wondering what was going on.

"Yep and it went wonderfully if I don’t say so myself" she smiled proudly.

"She’s right" Sam conferred. "Between hers and Sheridan’s testimonies it doesn’t look good for Alistair. What happened while I was in there?" Sam won’t let this go.

"They arrested Papa. He came to the house and I turned him in" Luis tells him. "He’s in a cell now"

"He needs to be interrogated" Sam decides. "And the sooner the better"

"I want to do it" Luis insists.

"I don’t think so Luis. You are too involved in this case. I am going to call the FBI in on this anyway. I want a bodyguard for Sophie and her family until Alistair’s trial"

"Just let me a do a prelim"

"You know I can’t do that Luis. But I can’t stop you from visiting your father" Sam was giving him a loophole Luis jumped out of his seat.

"I’m going with you" Sheridan announced out of nowhere and everyone shot looks of confusion at her. "What? I want to talk to my father too" she said mischievously.

Luis and Sheridan both took chairs from the office and placed them in the cellblock hallway. Sheridan put hers in front of Alistair’s and Luis in front of Martin’s. Luis looked at Sheridan and she just smiled. He leaned closer to her.

"What are you doing?" he whispered.

"You aren’t the only one who is going to have fun tonight" she answered.

"You think this is going to be fun?"

"Oh yeah, bringing them to their knees is going to be a lot of fun" she said devilishly.

"When did you become so sadistic?"

"Look what I’ve had to learn from" he tried not to chuckle but a smirk formed on his face. She was making a valiant effort to be serious but a smile played on her lips to. They were in control for once and it felt exhilarating for both of them. They both stared down their fathers planning their first move.

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