By Carrie
Disclaimer: I don't own the characters that would be NBC and James E. Reilly.
This is the next saga in Carrie's series, first there was All Is Forgiven, then came Love & War, next was Show Me Heaven. You don't necessarily need to read each one to understand the stories. Please e-mail her with comments at [email protected].
Chapter One
"You what,' he yelled at her.
"I bought the boutique,' she said handing him the key.
It had been a month since they got engaged and Sheridan was still living in the Lopez-Fitzgerald house. Antonio was staying in with Luis while Sheridan slept in Theresa's old room. The news about Theresa expecting a baby had surprised even Sheridan, but she was happy for Ethan and her soon to be sister-in-law, Theresa. Theresa had moved into the Crane mansion with Ethan and loving every minute of it. She was finally achieving her dreams of becoming Mrs. Ethan Crane, so that is what Sheridan thought. Sheridan and Luis did not understand why Ethan and Theresa had not discussed marriage. They explained to their families that Theresa did not want to settle down just yet. Sure she was young and now expecting a baby, but she was still very much an independent woman.
Sheridan felt the same way, even though, she was totally head over heels in love with Luis and they were planning their wedding, she still wanted a life of her own. The boutique would be the answer to both Sheridan and Theresa's prayers.
"I bought the boutique and your sister will help me run it,' Sheridan explained. "She has dreamed of a career in the fashion industry and here is her chance. We have discussed this in great length.'
"What about Ethan does he know about this,' Luis asked.
"Well hopefully she is telling him right now,' Sheridan answered.
Sheridan and Luis were sitting at the kitchen table during lunch hour. He had made a routine out of coming home for lunch to see Sheridan. He would check on the progress she had made on the wedding, and talk about their days. She had constantly reminded him that they could not live in this house forever. After the night they spent in the cabin they would not only go away for a night together but that is another reason he would come home during the afternoon.
He was conflicted when it came to moving out of his mother's house. He had grown up there and helped raise his younger siblings and even though they were young adults he still felt obligated to be there.
At the Crane mansion Theresa was confessing the buy of the boutique with Ethan. She wasn't sure how he would react.
"Sheridan really wants this to work and so do I. This is a perfect opportunity for Sheridan and I,' Theresa explained.
"What about school? You wanted to go to college. Now you are going to give that up,' Ethan asked.
"No, I am going to take a couple classes at night,' Theresa replied.
"When will I get to see you? Now that we are having a baby, Theresa, you have to slow down not put more stress in your life. Buying this boutique will do that to you. Do you even know what goes into running a business?'
"You don't think we can do it, do you?'
"I didn't say that.'
"You didn't deny it. Sheridan did major in business in college. And well I have the fashion experience. We both know powerful people who can help us. Plus your mother already knows and is thrilled with the notion.'
"Does this have something to do with the reason you will not marry me?'
"No, it doesn't. I just think we need to take it slow before we jump into marriage.'
"We are having a baby together. What happened to the woman I knew who wanted nothing more than to marry me?'
"She realized there is more in life than being a Crane!'
At the Harmony Police Department, Sam was sitting at his desk working on some paperwork when none other than his first love walked into his office.
"Ivy, what are you doing here,' Sam ordered.
"I would like to talk to you about us becoming grandparents. This wasn't how I had his life planned,' Ivy hissed.
"I am happy for Ethan and Theresa. Why do you have a problem with it,' he asked her.
She sat down in front of his desk looking so elegant in her white business suit with her hair pinned back. Ivy Crane was still very much in love with Sam Bennett even though she was married to the most powerful family in Harmony. With all of the bad publicity towards the Cranes the past few months, Ivy wasn't about to add more flames into the fire. She wanted Theresa and Ethan to get married, but Theresa had other plans.
"Do you know that she doesn't want to marry him? She says she loves him, but she is not ready to get married. After all she went through to break Ethan and Gwen up, she has now decided to wait for marriage.'
"I don't think I am the expert to go to for advice on this, Ivy. You have to remember that she was dating Noah before we found about this unexpected pregnancy. Noah is heartbroken about this, yet he is keeping it together.'
"I am not worried about your son with Grace. I am only concerned for our Ethan,' she yelped before Grace walked into this office.
Grace had overheard the conversation from outside her husband's office. She wasn't sure how to handle the situation laid upon her. She was devastated when she found out the news that Ethan was Sam's son with Ivy. She thought she knew her husband, and to later found out that his first love was Ivy Winthrop Crane had almost destroyed their marriage. It took Sam weeks to convince Grace that he was over Ivy and the only reason he kept it a secret all of these years was to protect her. He repeatedly told her that he didn't know about Ethan's parentage until the time everyone else had found out. She had forgiven him, but how was she going to handle Ivy constantly in their lives.
"Ivy, he cares deeply for both of his sons,' Grace interrupted. "What makes you think otherwise? All of us have had to adjust to the situation and you barging in here trying to tell Sam that he must drop everything to take care of Ethan is not only selfless but also petty.'
"What makes you think you can talk to me that way,' Ivy ordered.
Sam could tell that both of them were getting to go into another battle on what was best for Sam, so he did the only thing he could.
"Stop the both of you. Ivy, I don't have time for this. Ethan and Noah can handle their own problems involving Theresa. And what you need to do is stay out of his relationship with her. If you get mixed up in this it will only cause more heartache,' Sam ordered. "I think it is time for you to leave.'
Ivy left the room, but she wasn't finished with Sam. She still loved him and Ethan was going to be her way back to him. Ethan's relationship with Theresa would be her ticket into Sam's arms.
Chapter Two
At the Book Cafe Whitney was sitting at a table reading when Simone came walking up to her. Simone had decided not to force a relationship with Chad, of course after he confessed that the song he played months ago was not meant for her, but for her sister. She wasn't about to give up just yet, though, she still had the upper hand. Whitney still was very focused on tennis and her father made sure she didn't let anything distract her.
"So how is my favorite sister, today,' Simone stated.
"What do you need Simone,' Whitney asked not looking away from her book.
"Actually I came to see if you could tell mom and dad that I am at the library tonight,' Simone answered.
"Where will you be?'
"Kay and I got invited to Rick Robinson's party.'
"I heard nothing but bad things about that guy. You shouldn't go, Simone.'
"Too bad, we need a night out.'
"Your sister is right, Simone,' Chad commented walking up behind her. "He has been known to party too much with the ladies.'
"How sweet. Are you worried about me, Chad,' Simone asked getting closer to him.
"Yes, you have been nothing but a dear friend to me since I arrived in town. Kay and you should not go to that party,' Chad stated.
Simone turned away heading for the door, she got to the door and turned around once more.
"We are going to that party,' Simone said to Whitney and Chad leaving the Book Cafe.
After she had left the premises Chad sat down next to Whitney leaving just a couple of inches from each other.
"Are you up for a party tonight,' Chad asked Whitney.
"Anything to make sure that Simone doesn't do something stupid just to get back at me,' Whitney suggested.
"I will pick you up at 8:00 tonight,' Chad said walking back up to the counter.
"I can't wait,' Whitney whispered low enough for he could not hear her.
Pilar had not felt very well so Ivy let her leave early upon walking into her house she heard something upstairs. She knew Luis had come home often for lunch to see Sheridan, but what she didn't realize was they did more than have lunch together. When she realized what was going on upstairs she turned back out of the door hoping to give the lovebirds some more time alone. Pilar didn't like the idea of her son and his fiance together in the house anyone of her children could walk in. She wanted the two of them to be a proper influence on her other children, but lately want did it matter. She thought she knew her children, she thought she taught them that premarital sex was a sin. Instead her son and his fiance were making love in the middle of the afternoon in her own house and her daughter, Theresa, was pregnant with Ethan's child. She didn't understand her children anymore, if only her Martin had been here.
She was walking back to the car when Antonio walked up. He was still working for the Crane empire right along side Ethan. He had began to remember bits and pieces of his life before becoming the adopted son of Alistair Crane.
"Mamma, what are you doing here,' Antonio asked his mother.
"I wasn't feeling very well so Ivy sent me home,' she answered.
"So why are you headed out.'
"Well your brother is in there with Sheridan and I thought I should give them sometime alone,' she blushed.
"I will fix that,' he laughed strolling into the house.
Pilar stood there admiring her son. Luis and Antonio had become close since he moved back in. She once thought he would feel hatred towards Sheridan for being a Crane, but he knew she didn't want to be one of them. She had given it all up to be with Luis, the money, the power, and the name. He didn't know if he could, though, it was all he knew. Antonio had grew up everything handed to him, yet, his family worked for what they had. There was no free ride being a Lopez-Fitzgerald. He had been all over the world but the Lopez-Fitzgerald's had a limited places they could go. He knew of Luis' trip to Paris to rescue Sheridan, but from what he heard that was the only place out of the country he had been. Antonio had spent of what he remembered of his life in Europe, not knowing his real family.
"Luis. Sheridan,' Antonio yelled walking into the house hoping they could hear him. "Mamma and I were hoping to have lunch with you guys. Anyone here?'
Luis bolted out of bed grabbed his clothes with Sheridan following the lead.
"What is Mamma and Antonio doing here,' Luis wondered.
"This is their house too, Luis. I knew we would eventually get caught,' Sheridan replied buttoning her shirt fixing her hair running out of the room.
They darted down the stairs to come upon Antonio's laughter. They knew that they were caught not only by Antonio but also by Pilar. Pilar was standing in the doorway with a look of content on her face.
"Mamma, what is wrong? You are never home this early,' Luis questioned.
"I am just a little worn down. Ms. Crane let me take the rest of the day off with the baby and your wedding, I just can't keep up,' Pilar answered.
"Mamma, get some rest from what I heard Sheridan still has a lot of planning. I better get back to work, Sam might get a little worried,' Luis replied giving a peck on the cheek to his mother than Sheridan.
"See you later, bro,' Antonio waved.
Luis walked out the door with Sheridan heading to the kitchen suddenly Antonio and Pilar turned to Sheridan.
"Wait one minute, Sheridan,' Pilar said.
Sheridan knew that Pilar was going to mention what she had interrupted earlier, her face had turned red embarrassed about what would be said.
"I just wanted to check on how those wedding plans were going,' Pilar sighed.
"Yea, Sheridan, I know Mamma is wondering what she might walk in on when Luis is here with you planning the honeymoon, I mean wedding,,' Antonio laughed.
Sheridan's face turned another shade red while Pilar shifted a bit being a bit embarrassed herself.
"Stop picking on Sheridan. My dear, how about we see what you had in mind,' Pilar commented taking Sheridan's arm strolling into the kitchen.
"Why can't Luis help on his wedding,' Antonio asked following the ladies.
"You boys would not know the first thing about planning a wedding. This is the most important day of a lady's life, everything has to be perfect. If Luis had his way it would be a barbecue in the back yard,' Pilar replied.
"As much as I love your brother, Pilar is right, Luis would suggest having just a few guests in the backyard. Theresa and I were thinking of having it at the Country Club with one hundred guests serving a wide variety of gourmet foods,' Sheridan explained.
"Luis doesn't even know a hundred people,' Antonio added.
"He might not have been raised like you were but he still has high connections around the world. I know Agent Hal Freedman from the FBI would love to come to the wedding then there are our friends from Paris,' Sheridan stated. "Just because he didn't travel around like you and I did most of our lives does not mean he doesn't have the connections like the Cranes.'
"I didn't mean it like that,' Antonio shouted.
"How did you mean it,' Pilar wondered.
"He has never really left Harmony from what I know of other than with Sheridan. On those trips he knows these people through a Crane. Someone of our class does not mix well with someone like Luis',' Antonio specified.
"Your blood ties you to Luis. And from what I recall not only do Luis and I plan on living a life together but so do Ethan and Theresa. Do not stand there and tell me that our classes do not mix because you are a Lopez-Fitzgerald thru and thru even if you grew up as a Crane. Pilar, here, has raised Ethan and I to know that everyone is the same no matter if they have money or not. You did not have her as a role model, you had my father, the man whose only life ambition was to be the richest and most powerful man in the world and he would stop at nothing to get it.'
"Our father never did anything to make me not love him. He was there for me every step of the way, every event in my life. Anything I did he was right there for me,' Antonio argued leaving the house in a fit of rage.
Sheridan stood there in tears running down her face. She could not believe that her father had been there for Antonio's life, but not hers. What made her father hate her so much? Why did he take care of Antonio, the son of his worst enemy, and not his own daughter? He had adopted Antonio, but he was still a Lopez-Fitzgerald through blood. She could tell that he had the same characteristics as Luis, the stubbornness and anger, but also the gentle loving side.
"Your father loves you, my sweet. Antonio is still learning the details of his past. He might never know what kind of man Alistair truly was. He did love you, though, when he talked about you his eyes would light up. I am thankful that your father took care of him the way he did, but angry that he took him away from his rightful place beside us,' Pilar consoled.
"My father. I have to see him. I have to get him to explain why he took Antonio away from you and why he wasn't there for me,' Sheridan whimpered.
"I don't think that is such a good idea,' Pilar commented.
"I have to go see him,' Sheridan whispered. "Tell Luis I had a few errands to run.'
Before Pilar could stop her, Sheridan was out the door. Pilar knew that Luis would be furious if he knew that Sheridan would be visiting Alistair. After the trial he wanted nothing to do with neither Julian nor Sheridan believing that they betrayed him. Yet, he was planning his revenge. He still had some secrets that the trial had not revealed, the ones that were so shocking that even Julian did not know about them. Alistair knew that Antonio being alive was one of those secrets. He was hoping that Antonio would follow through on their plan. Antonio had made a mistake by coming to Harmony. Now Antonio had to pay for that one, Alistair knew he was a loose cannon.
At the prison Alistair sat in his cell looking through the photographs of his family. The plans he had for them, the dreams of being the most powerful family in the world is what made him so ambitious. He knew sitting there minding his own business that you didn't get rich by being Mr. Nice Guy. You had to cheat, steal, and back stab everyone to get ahead in the world. He expected to be out of the prison within weeks. There was no way he would spend the rest of his life here. He had a plan and once his daughter came to visit him like he knew she eventually would, his plan would be sent into motion.
After an hour he was informed that he had a visitor. His heart told him that she had come, her inquisitive mind wanted answers. Alistair went to the visitation room and there she was a replica of his late wife. Yes, he loved her mother very much, but with marriage came trust and he didn't trust her anymore.
"Father,' Sheridan stated. "I am here to ask you a few questions that deserve to be answered.'
"I knew you would come,' he replied sitting across from her.
"No, you didn't. You made it clear when you decided to destroy my life that you didn't want a daughter all you wanted was someone to control like Julian.'
"After the events that recently happened I can see that I can't even do that. You have so much of your mother in you. It amazes me on how much you had grown up before my eyes. What a beautiful woman you had turned out to be just like your mother. You have a heart as big as the ocean like she did. That is one reason I fell for her. She was able to find the good in everyone even me, you still see that don't you. You know that I love you, don't you,' he explained.
"You are insane if you think this will work on me like in the past.'
"Whatever are you talking about?'
"You are trying to manipulate me. I have learned from it, I am a much stronger woman than I use to be. Luis has taught me that, his family has taught me the meaning of love and what family really means. They would do anything for one another and not expect something in return. I get unconditional love from him and he is ten times the man that you could ever be.'
"If you feel that way why would he let you come?'
"He doesn't control me like you tried too.'
"So basically you are saying that he doesn't know that you are here.'
"No, he doesn't. That is not the point. I didn't come here to discuss my relationship with Luis.'
"I hear you plan on marrying him.'
"Yes, I do. But he is not the reason I am here. His brother, Antonio, is what concerns me right now.'
"He is a fine young man. Why would he be a concern of yours?'
"Why? You ask why. How about the fact that you were there for every moment of his life and not mine. I am your daughter and he was part of a family that you despised for years. Every time I thought you were to busy with business you were with him. All of those years you stayed away you were with him. What made you love him more? Why?'
"You were always going to go your own way. No matter what advice I gave you, you would not take it. I don't love you any less because of him. What did it hurt to give him things that he would never have otherwise. You witnessed first hand what advantages you have from being a Crane to living with the Lopez-Fitzgerald's.'
"Yes, I have, but what they lack in material things they gain in love and acceptance. You wouldn't know about that.'
"I do love you, my dear Sheridan.'
"This isn't going the way I planned it,' Sheridan whispered.
"He had a curious way about him. He wanted to learn the history of the Cranes. Antonio had the ambition to learn and the brains to run Crane industries unlike your brother.'
"You controlled him is that what you are saying? I knew better than let you control me and Julian didn't have the smarts to do something right, but when Antonio came along you had your guinea pig. I don't believe you. If ever there is a moment to think you had a heart it has disappeared at this moment. You took away a child from his family, a family that loved and appreciated him, to mold him into the perfect child. You bastard.'
With that Sheridan rushed away from her father. She began to feel pity for Antonio, did he know about Alistair's plan. Did he really know that he wasn't loved as he thought, that he was just a puppet controlled by Alistair.
Chapter Three
At the Crane mansion Whitney was standing in a bedroom with Theresa. There were bags full of wallpaper, toys, and baby clothes scattered throughout the room.
"This would be much easier if we just called a decorator,' Whitney stated.
"It wouldn't be as much fun, though,' Theresa replied looking through one of the bags.
"I don't believe that you are having a baby,' Whitney said.
"Sometimes neither do I,' Theresa stated.
"Can I ask what were you thinking?'
"At the time I was thinking of just trying to console Ethan. It happened the night we visited Mrs. Crane grave. We ended back here somehow and he was crying. Everything he knew about his family was a lie. It had hurt him to much to realize that the family he loved and cherished wasn't really his family. The men he looked up to all his life were conniving ruthless heartless men whose only goal in life was to gain more power and fortune. One thing led to another and we ended up confessing our love for another and then this baby was conceived.'
"I am happy for you. You have everything you have ever wanted but here is the sixty four thousand question - when is the wedding?'
"Whose? Mine and Ethan's? Well we haven't really discussed it.'
"Why not? Is it Ethan? Is he still harboring feelings for Gwen?'
"No, it is nothing to do with Gwen. He hasn't heard from her in weeks. We just decided to wait.'
"There's something you not telling me, Theresa. Does it have to do with Noah? That's it isn't it? You still have feelings for Noah.'
"Noah and I are friends that is it. Anyway what would it matter, he knows how much Ethan loves me.'
"Oh my god, you are in love with two brothers.'
"So about tonight, what are you going to wear to on your date with Chad?'
"Nice try changing the subject. It's really not a date, though, he just asked me to go so we can make sure Simone won't do something crazy.'
"So what are you going to wear?'
"I don't know.'
"I have something you can wear that will knock his socks off. Sheridan and I decided to buy the boutique and we found a couple outfits in there, of course in my condition I can't wear them, but you can.'
"How did Luis and Ethan react to the news?'
"Ethan wasn't to thrilled with it, but he knows that I want this. Luis, on the other hand, I haven't heard from Sheridan yet, on his reaction.'
"I can't believe your brother is marrying Sheridan. And you are having Ethan's baby.'
"The last few months have been a thrill ride, hasn't it? I don't know if I can keep up with these Cranes,' Theresa stated.
"All you ever wanted was to be Ethan Crane's wife. Now you can have that and you are hesitating. I will never understand you, Theresa.'
At the Bennett household Noah was studying on the couch when his sister Jessica came strolling into the room. Jessica sat next to her big brother, realizing he never looked up, being to occupied with the book.
"You know big brother, I know a way to take your mind off of that book,' Jessica said grabbing the book out of his hands.
"Jessica, what are you doing, I am studying,' Noah yelled.
"You don't need to study on this wonderful day. How about we go to the Book Cafe for a bit,' Jessica asked.
"Not today, Jessica.'
Kay walked in the house watching the scene in front of her. She had to get ready for the party with Simone and not letting her family know where she was heading for the night.
"Hey, sis,' Noah said noticing Kay walk in. "What are your plans for tonight?'
"I planned on going to the library with Simone tonight to study,' Kay answered.
"Simone and you at the library,' Jessica laughed.
"We thought it was time to buckle down,' Kay said heading up the stairs.
"I don't like this. Something doesn't seem right,' Noah stated.
"Yea, Kay and Simone at the library on a Friday night that is like the devil living in this house,' Jessica replied.
"Well what ever it is she better be careful,' Noah said.
"How about you take your sister to the movies, tonight,' Jessica asked.
"Well, like she said she is going to the library,' Noah smiled.
"I mean taking me out,' Jessica poked her brother replying.
"Okay, I think I need a night out.'
"Speaking of Ethan, have you spoke to him lately?'
"Who was talking about Ethan?'
"You said you needed a night out and you haven't really left the house since you found out about Theresa and Ethan.'
"It has nothing to do with Ethan. Get your things ready so we can go before I change my mind,' he ordered.
As the left the house, Kay got ready for her night out with Simone. She would show Miguel that she could party with the rest of the high school kids could. She watched as Miguel was invited to the party, but he turned Rick's invitation down when he did that Rick went for Kay. Rick knew the way to get Miguel there was to invite Kay, yet Kay insisted on bringing Simone.
Kay dressed in her knee length black skirt and baby blue sweater, a touch of make-up and her hair pinned up just right she was on her way to meet Simone. Kay was ready to make Miguel jealous and she knew this plan just might work if he didn't show up with Charity. Kay had not seen Charity all day since she was spending so much time helping Grace at the shop.
During this time at the Russell house, Simone was finishing up getting ready. She was tired of trying to fight for Chad's affection. Simone adored Chad, although, he only had eyes for her sister. Neither, Whitney nor Chad, would admit it especially with TC on Whitney's tail about concentrating only on tennis. Simone knew that Whitney had feelings for Chad since she noticed Whitney and Chad kiss at Antonio Lopez-Fitzgerald's homecoming party. Simone was not going to let it ruin her life, there were plenty of guys out there that would find Simone attractive and tonight was the night she would meet them. She snuck out of the house not letting her mother or father notice how she was dressed.
It was 7:00 and Simone had to meet Kay at the Book Cafe in a few minutes when she noticed Chad walking towards her.
"Simone, I wish you would reconsider going to that party,' Chad pleaded.
"Sorry, Chad, but Kay and I have had this planned for days,' she stated. "Nothing is going to stop us from having a good time tonight.'
With that note Simone walked away from Chad. He had an hour before he was supposed to pick up Whitney. He knew it was useless trying to convince Simone on not going to that party. He decided to pay a visit to Ethan before picking up Whitney. He headed to the Crane mansion hoping Ethan would be there, if not he could see how Theresa was doing. He didn't realize he was walking into danger heading to the Crane mansion.
Chapter Four
She pulled up to the Crane mansion not setting foot in Harmony in months, but she was back and with a vengeance. Julian had begged her to come back, and with her mother in tow she was back to get what was rightfully hers - Ethan. She rang the bell and when someone unexpected answered it she was horrified at the sight.
"I see you have taken over your mother's duties,' she snarled.
"What are you doing here,' Theresa wondered.
"Ethan. I was asked to come back,' she looked down and finally noticed why Julian had called her.
"Ethan would not have asked you to come back. So if you please just leave,' Theresa ordered.
"So don't tell me you trapped Ethan into marrying you,' she asked.
"I did no such thing,' Theresa stated.
"When is the bundle of joy due,' she questioned.
"Ethan's baby is due in three months. I would invite you in but you have no business here,' Theresa informed her arch rival.
"I invited her,' Julian stated walking in from the study.
"Mr. Crane, why,' Theresa asked.
"Ethan needs some help at Crane industries. I still don't trust your brother, Antonio, very well so I asked Gwen to come back and help,' Julian answered.
"You never know whether to trust the Lopez-Fitzgerald's or not,' Gwen butted in.
"Ethan can count on Antonio just like he can the rest of my family,' Theresa replied.
"Well, where is Ethan,' Gwen asked.
"He should be at Mamma's to see Sheridan,' Theresa answered. "It is a weekly ritual as of lately to have dinner with them.'
She grabbed her coat to head there herself with Gwen on her heels. Julian knew what he was doing when he asked Gwen to come back. He knew of the problems that Theresa and Ethan were having, and maybe with this plan he had up his sleeve would lead to Theresa's downfall. The mansion had not been the same since she moved in but that is what Ivy and Ethan wanted.
Chad was pulling into the mansion when he noticed Theresa coming out and someone he thought he would never see in Harmony again - Gwen Hotchkiss. He pulled up beside Theresa making Gwen lose her chance.
"Chad, what are you doing here. I thought you had a date with Whitney tonight,' Theresa asked him through the passenger side window.
"I came to see Ethan and you, but as I can see you have better plans,' he noted glaring at Gwen who was standing behind Theresa.
"Can you drop me off at my Mamma's. You will find Ethan there,' Theresa begging him.
She jumped in his car and headed off to the Lopez-Fitzgerald home leaving Gwen standing there ready to do battle with the rest of the Cranes. She stomped into the mansion searching for Julian. She found him in the study taking another sip of brandy - his daily ritual she thought. So many days she had spent here at this mansion admiring that man, but now she pitied him.
"Why didn't you tell me she was pregnant with Ethan's baby,' Gwen ordered.
"It wasn't an issue,' Julian stated.
"You told me there was a way to get Ethan back. How is that possible with a baby on the way? I figured a marriage would be soon to come.'
"Not exactly for some odd reason she has been holding off marrying him,' Julian explained.
"Why? She has everything she has ever wanted. Why would she wait?'
"That is what you are here to figure out. She was dating a Bennett for a couple of months after you left for Europe. Then out of nowhere she says she is pregnant with Ethan's baby.'
"That does not make sense. Are you saying there is a chance this baby isn't Ethan's? He would be devastated if she lied to him.'
"You are here to pick up the pieces once he finds out the truth.'
"When do I start?'
Julian gave the details to Gwen then she headed off to Crane Industries to begin working. He had explained that there would be another Lopez-Fitzgerald in the way.
At the Bennett home Sam was setting up a romantic dinner for Grace. Sam had left work a couple hours early to surprise his adoring wife. He had made sure all of the children would be gone for a couple of hours. He knew Grace was upset about earlier when Ivy paid him a visit at the station. Sam didn't know how to make Grace see that he didn't have any feelings towards Ivy Crane these days.
When his wife walked into the kitchen the candles were the only light in the room. The dozen roses on the table were breathtaking. She knew he was trying to make her feel loved and in a way it was working. She wanted to forgive Sam for deceiving her through the years. Their entire marriage was built on deceit. He had another son just a couple years older then Noah and now it wasn't helping matters when he was in love with Theresa.
"Sam, these are beautiful,' Grace said. "Thank you.'
"I thought we needed a night alone,' Sam stated turning away from the stove to face her.
He walked over to her kissing her gently on the lips. He knew he had to make things up to her. As soon as their lips met the phone rang, which meant that their night would be cut short like usual. When he answered the phone, it was the station explaining the details of the breakout.
"Grace, I gotta go, this is important,' Sam stated.
"So is our marriage,' she replied leaving the kitchen.
He knew he had to leave. Why was this so hard? Why didn't she understand that Ivy was his past and Grace was his present and future? He left the house heading to the station. He knew it was time to call Luis.
At the Lopez-Fitzgerald house, Ethan was sitting at the kitchen table with Pilar and Miguel. Luis walked in from work when he noticed Sheridan wasn't around.
"Mamma, where is Sheridan,' Luis asked sitting down.
"She had a couple things to do,' Pilar replied.
Suddenly Sheridan rushed into the room not noticing who was there just heading upstairs. Pilar knew that the encounter with Alistair did not go well, but how was Luis going to react when he found out where she was. Luis noticed the look on Sheridan's face, she was angry about something. He knew something was wrong when she didn't even notice Ethan sitting there.
"What is wrong with Sheridan,' Ethan asked.
"I don't know but I am going to go find out,' Luis said.
"Mijo, before you do, there is something you need to know. She went somewhere today don't be angry with her. She needed to get some answers, she loves you very much,' Pilar stated.
He walked upstairs when he walked into her room she was sitting on the bed with her palms in her face. He could hear her weeping, what could have happened to her today. He walked up to her kneeling down in front of her. He wrapped his arms around her, it always broke his heart when she cried. He let her tears come holding tightly onto her.
"I'm sorry,' she cried.
"For what?'
"I needed to do it.'
Pilar walked into the room noticing Luis holding Sheridan. She didn't want to tell them the bad news. How would they react to the news that Sam gave her.
"I don't mean to interrupt, but I have some bad news,' Pilar spoke up.
They looked up to see Pilar, Sheridan stopped and knew what she was going to say.
"Sam just called. Luis, he wants you to go down to the station, Alistair broke out of prison,' Pilar explained.
"No,' Sheridan screamed.
Chapter Five
Luis arrived at the station to find Sam pacing back and forth. His eyes looked tired and he seemed to be miles away. Luis knew that some of that was Ivy's fault. Since Ethan's true parentage had been revealed Ivy has been trying relentlessly to get Sam back. She had been throwing herself at him every chance she could.
Sam noticed Luis come in and was ready to give Luis the bad news he had received. Sam was worried about what would play out in the next 24 hours with the breakout and Luis, the Cranes, and Bennett's.
"Luis, I am glad you got here so quick,' Sam stated.
"What is going on, Sam,' Luis asked.
"From what Pilar probably told you, you know that Alistair broke out of prison. I wanted to tell you this in person, but this is worse than you think.'
"What do you mean by that? Is he going after Sheridan,' Luis ordered.
"Hank escaped with him and from what I understand they are both headed here to Harmony to make all of us pay.'
"We need a guard sent to the house. I need to make sure Sheridan doesn't find out. If she comes face to face with Hank who knows what will happen. She still has nightmares about the shooting and Alistair is not helping her sleep much either.'
At the Lopez-Fitzgerald house, Sheridan was sitting on the couch discussing in details the conversation she had with her father hours earlier to Pilar. She could not believe he had broke out of prison, she knew deep in her gut that he was up to something. Was she in danger? Would he come after her? Did he feel such hatred towards her to harm her life? She had held off telling Luis about visiting her father. He rushed off to the station before she could confess.
"I think you should have told him, my dear,' Pilar stated.
"He might think I had something to do with it,' Sheridan replied.
"Did you,' Pilar wondered.
"No, how could you ask that? I went there for answers not to break him out,' Sheridan answered angrily.
"You visited Grandfather in prison,' Ethan asked walking into the living room and Miguel following close behind.
"Yes! And before you ask, no, Luis did not know about it,' Sheridan shouted.
Theresa walked into the house with Chad on her heels. She had a concerned look on her face and Chad looked just as bad.
"Theresa, where have you been,' Ethan asked.
"Do you know about the breakout,' Chad asked.
"Yea, Sam called to tell us. I don't believe Alistair broke out,' Pilar announced.
"I am more worried about Hank,' Theresa stated.
"What about Hank,' Sheridan commanded now her eyes full of fright.
"Didn't the Chief tell you,' Chad wondered.
"Hank Bennett escaped with Mr. Crane,' Theresa declared.
Sheridan started shaking uncontrollably, she could not believe what was happening. She thought Hank was out of her life for good. He had shot her months ago leaving her for dead. She could not leave Luis again. Her dreams had finally come true of having a man that loved her as much as she loved him. Luis was that man, and to have his best friend, a man she trusted kill her terrified her. She could recall those weeks she was away from Luis, she knew Hank would come back to finish the job. Now Hank had her father's help on hurting her and the ones she loved.
Ethan held onto his Aunt Sheridan, he knew the only one that could make her feel safe was off trying to save them from destruction. He was hoping his father and Luis could find Alistair and Hank before they came after Sheridan.
"I think we should call Luis at the station,' Miguel suggested.
"Good idea,' Chad replied.
Pilar went to dial the number on the phone, but to her astonishment there was no dial tone.
"Do you have your cell phone, Ethan,' Pilar asked.
"Mamma, what's wrong with our phone,' Theresa questioned.
"Not now, Theresita,' Pilar commented giving her a look of concern.
"Here you go, Pilar,' Ethan said handing her the cell phone from his pocket.
Sheridan sat there mumbling words to herself shaking. She could not go back of being that frightened child of the past. Her mind wandered flashing memories of the night Martin died, to her life in Europe, and all the encounters with Luis before they admitted how they felt about one another and the night they finally made love.
"I need to speak to Detective Lopez-Fitzgerald immediately, please,' Pilar said over the phone.
"This is Detective Lopez-Fitzgerald,' Luis stated a couple minutes later.
"Luis, it's your mother. We found out who else escaped, Sheridan is not handling it well. She needs you, Mijo,' Pilar explained. "She has been mumbling things to herself, crying, and shaking. We can't get her to calm down.'
"I figured this might happen. Sam didn't tell me until I got here. Who is there with you? Call Dr. Russell, see what you should do. I will try to be there as soon as I can,' Luis said.
"Theresa and Chad showed up to tell us the news. They said they heard it over the radio. Ethan is trying to calm Sheridan down,' Pilar whispered. "There is something else. I am calling you on Ethan's cell because our phone is dead.'
"Sam and I are heading there right now. I was going to send an officer to look after you but now I think we should. Mamma, give the phone to Sheridan. Let me talk to her,' Luis said.
"Sheridan, Luis is on the phone. He wants to speak to you. Sheridan....Sheridan....,' Pilar tried to give the phone to her, but she was like a little child losing control. She was now hugging her knees shaking back and forth. "Luis, she isn't doing good. She has lost any sense of reality.'
"We will be there in five minutes. Call Dr. Russell. Be careful. I love you,' he said before the cell phone went dead.
"I love you, too. And you be careful,' Pilar stated after the battery on Ethan's phone went dead.
"Mamma, she isn't doing to well,' Theresa whispered to her mother. Ethan was trying to calm her down, but it was no use.
"Pilar, she doesn't acknowledge me. She doesn't even know who I am. Is Luis coming? What about Dr. Russell? She is getting worse by the minute,' Ethan explained.
"I can go get Dr. Russell,' Chad volunteered.
Suddenly the electricity went off, everyone screaming at once except Sheridan who did not realize what had just happened.
"Go get Eve, Chad, explain what is going on. Miguel make sure all of the doors and windows are locked also look for the flashlights and candles. Theresa sit down and rest, talk to Sheridan. I will look out for Sam and Luis,' Pilar ordered everyone.
Everyone scattered off to do what Pilar had ordered. She was getting a bit frightened herself. She was looking outside from the front door worried that Alistair and Hank would make an appearance. All of them were in the house with no way to the outside world. It seemed like hours had past when Pilar had noticed the police car pull up to the house. When Luis had come out of the car, Pilar opened the front door and ran to her son.
"Luis, the phones are dead and the electricity is off. Someone is here,' Pilar cried.
"Pilar is everyone okay,' Sam asked.
"How's Sheridan doing,' Luis asked.
"We are all fine except Sheridan seems to be getting worse. We sent Chad out to get Eve, but he hasn't come back yet,' Pilar answered.
"Let's get inside,' Sam ordered.
They walked into the house, Pilar bolting the door after they got in. Luis kneeled in front of Sheridan noticing how pale she had become. When he touched her, she felt clammy and hot. She was burning up. Luis tried to understand what she was saying, but he couldn't figure it out.
"Sheridan, I'm here. It's Luis. Look at me, sweetheart. I'm here, I'm not going to let anyone hurt you,' Luis said wrapping his arms around her.
"Where is everyone else,' Sam asked Pilar.
Miguel and Ethan walked into the room with matches and candles. They began to light them throughout the room. Ethan noticed his father and wondered on how his mother was handling the fact the Alistair had broken out of prison. He asked his mother before about her past with Sam, on how she walked out on him to marry Julian. It was a business deal from the beginning arranged by Alistair and her father. She admitted that she still loved Sam very much, but Ethan made her promise that she would not ruin Sam's marriage with Grace Bennett. He had come to know Grace, and the rest of her children. He admired them for handling the situation so well.
"Ethan, did you notice anything strange,' Sam asked.
"No, Pilar had Miguel and I make sure everything was locked up,' Ethan answered sitting next to Theresa.
"I think we should get out of the house and head somewhere safe,' Sam suggested.
Knocking at the door stopped everyone in their tracks. Pilar went to see who it was, she appeared a couple minutes later with Whitney, Chad, and Dr. Russell.
"She won't acknowledge anyone,' Luis told Dr. Russell.
"That is how she was when she was sent off to the institution,' Ivy said walking in.
"What are doing here, Ivy,' ordered.
"She was with me,' Eve answered.
"I was concerned about Sheridan. I was there the night Martin was murdered and the next morning when no one could calm her down. She was shaking uncontrollably, mumbling words no one understood, and that is when Alistair had her sent to the mental institution,' Ivy explained.
"This shot will knock her out for a bit. We have to get her to a hospital immediately,' Eve stated.
Sam's cell phone rang and when he answered it he knew things had gone to bad to worse. When he rung up the phone, he had to break the news to everyone. He wasn't sure how to handle the situation that was just handed to him.
"We found Hank and Alistair,' Sam stated.
"That's good news,' Theresa shouted.
"Not exactly. They have some hostages,' Sam replied.
"Who,' Luis asked.
"Kay, Simone, Jessica, and Noah,' Sam answered.
"Noah,' Theresa cried.
"Where are they,' Chad asked.
"They want to make a deal. If we give them Sheridan they will give us back the kids,' Sam explained.
"We can't do that, Sam,' Luis commented.
"Don't you think I know that, Luis, but these are my children. Their Uncle Hank is willing to kill them just to get back at us for putting him in prison. Alistair just wants his daughter back. What do you expect me to do,' Sam wondered.
"Where are they,' Dr. Russell ordered.
"The lighthouse,' Sam answered.
"I think we need to get to that lighthouse,' Ivy stated.
"Ivy, this has nothing to do with you,' Sam snapped.
"No, but it has to do with us,' Grace said appearing from the front entrance with Charity behind her.
"What are you going to do, Uncle Sam,' Charity asked.
"Luis, do you want to gamble,' Sam wondered.
"What did you have in mind,' Luis asked.
"Not if it involves my Aunt Sheridan,' Ethan stated.
"Let them do there job,' Theresa whispered to Ethan.
"I will need the guys help on this,' Sam replied.
"To save Kay, anything,' Miguel spoke up noticing afterwards how tense Charity became.
Chapter Six
Julian was sipping his brandy in his study when the phone rang startling him. He was surprised at the voice on the other end.
"I see no matter what I know I will find you in that study. Are you drinking the brandy,' the voice asked. "We got things to do. We are in Phase Three, make sure everything is set up accordingly. If you mess this up, Julian, I will make sure you have nothing.'
Suddenly the phone went dead. Julian had to hurry, he wasn't sure that they would come this far. He didn't take him seriously when he suggested this ridiculous plan of his and now it was in full motion. What if something did go wrong? Why did he have such a difficult time telling them no? With a few phones call everything was arranged.
At Crane Industries, Gwen and Antonio were going over the details of the newest company Ethan planned on taking over. They were sitting in Antonio's office, Gwen was amazed on how Antonio looked forward of taking the competition out of the way. He was a very attractive man, someone she would not mind to get to know if it was under some other circumstances.
"How do you like being back in Harmony,' Gwen asked taking a sip of her mineral water.
"I don't really remember much. How does it feel to be back here, yourself? From what I heard you left in pretty bad terms with Ethan. Will you let your emotions cloud your professional responsibility,' he asked concentrating on the reports.
"I see Alistair taught you well. Business before anything else.'
"Father, I mean Alistair, taught me to fight for what I want and even if it is crossing your family if you want it bad enough you can do anything,'he said suddenly the phone rang.
"Crane Industries, Antonio Crane speaking,' he answered.
"I see you are hard at work. Did you remember the plan,' the voice spoke.
"I am glad you are safe. What did you need me to do,' Antonio asked.
"You did good by sending her to me. You made sure she was shaken up enough to confess. Our plan is in motion. Meet me at the scheduled destination in two days. I gotta go, I won't be in contact with you until then,' the voice stated hanging up the phone.
Antonio hung up the phone to Gwen looking concerned. Did she know what was going on? Did he trust her?
"An important call I can see,' Gwen said.
"Let's just get back to business,' he ordered. He would finish the details of the meeting later without Gwen near.
Gwen knew he was up to something. Was Julian right when he said Antonio could not be trusted? And if so, was it because he was a Lopez-Fitzgerald by blood or the fact he had Alistair Crane as a role model.
At the lighthouse, Noah held onto his sisters tightly hoping that his father would come and save him. Throughout the years, he had heard how heartless Alistair Crane was, but to sacrifice your own daughter for vengeance that was low. Now Alistair had involved his Uncle Hank in his battle, he was trying to be strong for his sisters and Simone. Noah could not believe that Uncle Hank had done the things he was accused of like murdering Sheridan. What could make him turn like that?
"I'm scared, Noah,' Jessica whispered.
"It's okay, dad will save us,' he replied.
"Sushh, over there,' Alistair barked.
"Ethan is lucky to have found out he wasn't your grandson. He is nothing like you,' Kay yelled.
"Kay, quiet,' Simone told her.
"No, let her speak. I may not be Ethan's grandfather, but he has learned a few things from me. From what I heard, he always gets what he wants, right young man,' Alistair stated.
"Quiet over there. I see them coming,' Hank shouted.
"How many vehicles,' Alistair asked.
Hank was looking through binoculars, he knew this was it. Soon Alistair and Hank would be out of the country with Sheridan. He knew befriending Alistair in prison was a good idea. Both of them wanted to seek revenge on Luis, and taking Sheridan away was the easiest way. Hank knew the only way to get Sheridan was to risk Sam's children. He knew Sam would not bargain with his children for Sheridan's life. Luis was the ace up the sleeve, would he listen to Sam and bring Sheridan to Alistair and him.
In the police car, which Sam was driving, Luis held Sheridan in his arms in the back seat. He was hoping the plan they had concocted would work. He could not risk losing Sheridan. The weeks he had spent thinking she was dead was some of the hardest times he had been through, but he had her back. She had come back to him. Their love for one another had bought her back, and now someone was trying to break them apart once again. Once this was over he would make sure she knew how mush he loved her. He did love her, he loved her with all of his heart. He didn't know someone could feel so much for someone, but when it came to Sheridan he would risk everything to keep her safe. And today was that day.
"Sam, I hope this works,' Luis said.
"So do I, Luis. Hopefully the guys know what they are doing,' Sam replied.
In the car behind Sam was Eve, TC, Grace, and Pilar. TC was driving the car with Eve in the passenger seat making sure she had everything in her medical bag in case Sheridan awoke from her sleep.
"Do you think they made it,' Pilar asked Grace.
"I hope so. I just hope Sheridan doesn't realize what is about to happen,' Grace responded.
A few miles away, Miguel began making his way up the cliff. Ethan was behind him with Chad on his tale. The three were twenty feet up already, looking down for a brief moment Ethan saw his mother with her arms around Theresa. Whitney and Charity were standing beside Theresa holding her other hand.
"Hope they know what they are doing,' Charity whispered.
"Luis taught Miguel how to climb the cliff a couple years ago,' Theresa said.
"Ethan learned to climb at school,' Ivy replied.
"I hope they get there in time,' Whitney stated.
Climbing up the cliff Miguel knew if they miscalculated by just a couple minutes they would also be hostages. Miguel wanted to save Kay, his best friend. He didn't know what his feelings for her were, but he could not let her die. Charity was another one obstacle in his life. Being young was hard enough these days adding another log in the fire was being the youngest of one of the most respected families in Harmony. In his family everyone was somehow involved with a Crane except him but he was torn between cousins in the Bennett clan.
Ethan was climbing the cliff thinking that he could not let his family die. He had just found out that Kay, Jessica, and Noah were his siblings and he could not let them die in the hands of the man he thought was his grandfather. Ethan left Theresa at the bottom of the cliff with his mother. He knew Theresa was worried about Noah, he could tell just by the look in her face. Before he came into her life, Noah and Theresa were very close. Luis had even mentioned that when Theresa was nine years old she told everyone she was going to marry Noah one day. Six months later is when she began the obsession of Ethan forgetting all about being Mrs. Noah Bennett.
Sam pulled up to the lighthouse worried that the guys had not arrived yet. Then he recognized the signal so he went to begin the plan. Luis carried Sheridan out of the car then he noticed something out of the ordinary. When he looked beyond the lighthouse he noticed the helicopter approaching.
"Sam, we have company,' he stated pointing to the helicopter which looked to be a couple miles away.
"That must be the way they think they are getting out of here,' Sam remarked.
Sheridan began to stir in Luis' arms. She knew whose arms she was in, but her eyes were not in focus just yet. Luis held onto her tighter making sure she would feel safe.
"Luis, where am I,' she mumbled.
"The lighthouse,' he replied.
He put her down on the bench near the lighthouse entrance. He knew he had to explain to her the situation as quickly as possible. When he finished the last word, she knew he was risking everything to protect his family as well as Sam's.
"Are you crazy,' Sheridan pouted.
"It is the only way,' Sam stated handing her a pistol.
"You want me to go with him for the safety of everyone here in Harmony. Do you even know what you are asking of me? I am not only concerned about my life here, but how about the guys climbing that cliff,' she stated.
"Alistair won't see it coming,' Luis replied.
"Yea, and how about Hank,' Sheridan cried. "You are asking me to put my life in Hank's hands. Do you remember he is a cold blooded killer or did you forget?'
"I could never forget what he did to you, but if everything goes as planned you have nothing to worry about,' Luis muttered.
"Where have I heard that before,' she commented. "Fine, let's get this over with.'
Sheridan opened the lighthouse door, when he grabbed her arm pulling her close to him. He was risking so much, and when their lips met for their final goodbye, he knew it could be their last.
"I love you,' he whispered. "Remember that.'
"I love you,' she whispered back and with that she entered the lighthouse alone.
Sam and Luis headed back to the car where TC, Eve, Pilar, and Grace stood. Pilar hugged her son hoping that this worked out for the best. Grace went straight towards Sam's arms. Their children were the only thing keeping Sheridan safe now.
Chapter Seven
The guys finally reached the top of the cliff when they noticed the helicopter approaching the lighthouse. They knew if they were seen it would be over with. Miguel looked up and noticed Kay standing at the edge of the lighthouse. He noticed Alistair holding onto her. Ethan could hear Hank's voice. The three guys snuck into the lighthouse through a trap door without being seen.
"I can see Sheridan,' Chad whispered to them looking upstairs.
"How about Hank,' Ethan asked.
"Not yet,' Chad answered. "She just looked down here. She must know we are here.'
"Let's get up there then before she has to come face to face with him,' Miguel announced.
"We have to wait for the signal,' Chad stated.
Suddenly they heard the car horn honk twice then they began to climb the stairs quietly. Ethan went first and within a few minutes they were several feet away from Sheridan.
She saw the look in his face as she approached him in the corner of her eye she noticed the girls hugging Noah. She could not believe this man befriended her at one time. Sheridan could see the smirk on his face like he had won. Once Luis and Sam arrived it would hopefully be over for good.
"It is so nice to see you again, my dear,' she heard her father say.
She turned around to see Alistair holding a gun to Kay's temple. It was time to put this situation to an end.
"You have me let them go,' Sheridan announced.
"I don't think so. See, my dear, she will be my escape out of here. You were just the prize for Hank here,' Alistair warned her.
"The only thing I ever wanted was you, my sweet,' Hank stated.
"You knew long ago that I loved Luis, why fight it,' Sheridan asked.
"Luis always had to win and now I am going to take the most precious thing he has - you,' Hank replied.
"I don't think so,' Sheridan announced pulling out the pistol pointing it at Hank.
"My dear, that is not the best thing to do,' Alistair warned her.
Suddenly Miguel came flying from behind him tackling him down. Hank went running out on the ledge with Ethan running after him. Chad went to untie the others. Sheridan grabbed the gun her father was holding and tossed it farther away.
Ethan had caught up with Hank wrestling on the ledge of the lighthouse. Hank had gotten above Ethan somehow knocking him down, his hands were strangling Ethan's throat. Inside Chad had untied Noah who went heading for the ledge to save his brother.
Miguel and Alistair were fighting, but of course, Alistair had the advantage. Kay jumped on Alistair's back before he knocked Miguel unconscious from banging his head against the ground. Sheridan was making sure Jessica and Simone was okay, while Chad tried to help Miguel. Alistair threw Kay off of him, hitting her head against the railing, knocking her unconscious. Sheridan noticed this jumping for the pistol she had put down.
Outside Ethan was losing his strength to hang on his eyes beginning to lose focus, when suddenly Hank was thrown over the ledge. When his eyes came back into focus there was Noah holding out his hand to help him up. Hank fell to his death over the cliff.
Inside Alistair grabbed the gun before Sheridan could get back to it. He knew his ride was close hearing the sounds of the helicopter. He looked at his darling daughter then walking outside to the ledge he noticed that Hank had lost his battle. It didn't matter Alistair was going to have him killed as soon as he was on his way to the destination point.
"Bye, my darling, Sheridan, you are more like me than you think,' Alistair stated grabbing a hold of the chain ladder let down from the helicopter.
With that Alistair was off his pilot heading off to unclosed destination. Sheridan went to grab a hold of Alistair, but it was to late. The helicopter was just a couple hundred feet away when the Harmony Police Department Chopper appeared. Inside of it were Sam and Luis, when Sheridan noticed the chopper she became frightened. Her suspicions were correct when she witnessed someone jump from the Harmony PD chopper to her father's. She knew it could be only be one person, and her heart told her that he would go after Alistair until one of them were dead.
On the ledge watching the fight between Detective Lopez-Fitzgerald and Alistair Crane were Chad who was comforting Simone, Kay, who leaned onto Miguel for balance, Noah, who held his sister, Jessica, and Ethan who was trying to console Sheridan. When it happened all of them tensed up while Sheridan screamed. She saw him hit the water not knowing whether or not he would survive. Miguel could not believe what he just witnessed, he had dropped into the water. Miguel knew his brother would make it, he had to not only for his family but also the one he would have one day with Sheridan.
Chapter Eight
Sheridan opened the door to see him laying there in bed. She knew he needed his rest after what they had been through the last couple of days, but she couldn't resist him. She walked into the room sitting the tray of food beside the bed. He opened his eyes slightly and noticed the figure standing before him. Was this a dream he was wondering?
"Good morning, I thought I would try bringing you breakfast in bed,' she told him.
"You mean, you bringing it to me, but I can bet you that you did not make,' he stated sitting up in bed.
"Okay, so Pilar made it. She knows what you like,' she said.
"So do you,' he smiled.
She sat the tray in front of him then sat next to him. She didn't want to feel the pain she felt when she thought he had lost his life when he fell fifty feet from the chopper into the ocean. She didn't want to take her eyes off of him, but she had to today. It was the day the boutique would finally be open. She had to get ready for the Grand Opening, but she didn't want to leave him.
"Go ahead, I will be fine,' Luis commented knowing Sheridan was hesitate on leaving him.
"I don't want to leave you,' Sheridan replied.
"I will be fine. Dr. Russell said I could come later,' Luis said.
"You need your rest,' Sheridan said kissing him gently on his lips.
"I would not miss this day for anything. It is a very big day for Theresa and you.'
"I love you.'
"I love you, too,' Luis said kissing her once again.
An hour later she was standing at the entrance of the Hearts Attire Boutique next to Theresa about to cut the ribbon. Everyone Sheridan and Theresa knew were there including Gwen who came with Ivy except Luis had not shown up just yet. Ethan got everyone's attention so his Aunt Sheridan and the love of his life could make the speech.
"Theresa and I have a few words to say then we can get this party started,' Sheridan announced. "We would like to thank everyone who believed in us and stood by us.'
She noticed him standing in the back of the room. He began approaching her through the crowd, he noticed the way her face brightened up as he got closer.
"The ones that took care of us, love us, and the ones we could not live without,' Sheridan finished. He stood in front of her as she finished the last word. When he picked her up and kissed her gently on the lips.
As the party went on, Whitney was staring outside the window. She recalled what Sheridan had said about not being able to live without the ones you loved. After what had happened Whitney knew she had to tell him. She had to tell him how she really felt about him. He came up behind her when she noticed his reflection from the glass.
"I need you to know something. I was so scared that I would never see you again. I would have never been able to tell you. I have been fighting these feelings for months and now I have to tell you. If something would have happened I don't know if I would have been able to live with myself,' Whitney explained. "What am I trying to say is I am in love with you.'
"Whitney, I love you too,' he said turning her around kissing her passionately on the lips.
Simone witnessed the encounter also hearing what they had told each other. She knew this day would happen and for an instant when Chad saved her life she thought there might have been a chance. Not only did Simone witness the confession but so did Theresa and Ethan. She knew it was time for them to get things out in the open about their relationship.
"Ethan, can we go outside and talk,' Theresa asked.
"Yea,' Ethan answered taking his love's hand.
A couple of minutes later they were standing in back ready to confess what was going on between them. Ethan wasn't sure what Theresa had on her mind lately. She wanted it all, but not with him.
"I want you to know that I love you with all of my heart, Ethan. I always have and I always will. Everyone keeps giving me the same excuse on why I don't want to marry you. Everyone is wrong, because I do want to marry you. Our baby just makes that love even more special. It has nothing to do with my feelings for Noah. We are dear friends who grew up together. He was there when my father disappeared. He took over Luis' spot as the big brother when Luis' took over as the father figure. The reason I don't want to marry you would be the same reason Sheridan has nothing to do with the Cranes anymore. I don't want to lose who I am when I marry into the Cranes. We have both learned in the last few months how ruthless they are, I don't want that. I am scared of who I will become if I marry into this family,' she explained.
"But you won't lose that, I won't let you. I fell in love with you, not a perception of you. The man that did the most destruction is gone for good. I am nothing like my grandfather. You have witness that first hand, that not all of us are like my grandfather and father, I mean Alistair and Julian,' Ethan replied.
"But look how miserable Sheridan was. And your mother, she married into the Cranes and she lost everything,' Theresa stated.
"Do you love me?'
"Of course, I do.'
"Then that is everything we need.'
"Oh, Ethan. I love you.'
He kissed her passionately on the lips and with that she felt a sudden kick. Their baby was kicking her for the very first time. It was a perfect ending to the perfect night.
In Italy Antonio was waiting at the corner booth of the restaurant when he felt the breeze from the door. He knew it was time to get down to business. The gentlemen had a seat at the Antonio's table.
"I knew you would make it,' Antonio said.
"It was too close there. I heard he survived the fall,' the man replied.
"Yes, everyone is celebrating as we speak back in Harmony,' Antonio stated.
"It is time we get down to business and finish them off for good,' the man explained.
Back in Harmony at the boutique Sam was talking to Luis when Grace came up behind him. She had talked to Ivy earlier that night and they had come into an understanding. Now it was Grace to explain the details to Sam.
"You don't mind if I borrow my husband for a few minutes do you, Luis,' Grace told Luis.
"No, not at all. I have to find that beautiful fiancee of mine anyway,' Luis replied.
"Ivy and I discussed the problems we are having. Now it is time you and I talk about it. Ivy wants you back, both of us know that. But you are my husband, and I am going to fight for this marriage,' Grace explained after Luis left.
"There is no fight. You have won, hands down. I love you, Grace. I know no matter how many times I apologize for what happened before with Ivy concerning Ethan, it doesn't make it any better. I love you only you. Ivy is the past, you are my present and future. You and the kids are the only thing that matters. Ivy could try all the tricks in the book, but it won't matter. After what happened the past few months you should know that I am not going any where.'
With that Sam passionately kissed his wife and Ivy witnessed this knowing she had lost this round but it was only the beginning. Grace wasn't about to give up on her marriage with Sam and Ivy wasn't going to let go of the past.
Noah was sitting next to his sister, Jessica when Ethan came up behind him.
"Can I talk to you,' Ethan said.
"Sure,' Noah mumbled.
"I just want to say thanks for saving my life. I know it had to be one of the hardest things you probably had to do, but thank you. No matter what I am glad that I learned the truth about my real family. You and I probably won't see eye to eye on certain things, but I am glad that you are my brother,' Ethan explained.
"I know I wasn't the reason Theresa did not want to marry you. No one wanted to believe me or Theresa. I know how much she loves you. I could never compete with that,' Noah said.
Luis danced the night away with his fiancee in his arms.
"Not to rain on the parade or anything, but I want you to know I won't rest until your father is put away for good,' Luis whispered.
"Let's just forget about that for tonight. I meant every word I said earlier about not being able to live without you, though. So if you do anything like you did a couple days okay you will have hell to pay,' Sheridan laughed.
"Is that a promise,' he kissed her.
"I love you, Detective Lopez-Fitzgerald.'
"I love you, too, Sheridan Crane soon to be Lopez-Fitzgerald. That is one reason I have a surprise for you. There is this nice little house on the other side of town that I know you would love, so it is ours if you want it. It won't be the cottage like you were use to, but at least it won't be in my Mamma's house where we have no privacy.'
As everyone celebrated the night away it was hard to believe that this wasn't the end of the saga between good and evil in Harmony. If the couples in Harmony thought they would spend forever with each other, they didn't know that someone was out there beginning his reign for revenge.
The End