Chapter 21

“So…,” Luis chuckled. “What was that all about? Afraid you can’t control yourself around me, Ms. Crane?” he teased. Advancing on her. Sheridan blushed furiously at his words. How’d you guess, she thought to herself nervously as he came closer. And closer. “Luis,” she squeaked. “What?” he asked innocently. Tracing his finger down her jawline. “Luis,” she repeated breathlessly as he leaned in even closer. She could swear he was going to kiss her. “Hmm?” he hummed. Threading his fingers through hers and pulling her against him. “What’s that?” he whispered. His dark eyes twinkling at her as he brushed his lips feather-soft against hers.

“I…I…I don’t remember,” she said. Sagging against him when her knees went weak. “Not laughing now. Are we?” he grinned. “Maybe it’s just as well. Young, impressionable kids like my brother and sister shouldn’t…just kidding,” he laughed at the shocked expression on her face. Bringing her hand to his lips and kissing it. Whipping his head around when he heard a throat clear. The tiny redhead standing just two feet away had an enormous knowing smile on her lips. “Later,” he said. Releasing her hand. “I promised you a date. And Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald always keeps his promises,” he said in goodbye.

“OH MY GOD!” Suzie squealed. “Forgive me for saying this,” she said. Looking up towards the sky. “But that man is a god. Sheridan, girl. You are so lucky!” she gushed. “Tell me all about it. He mentioned something about a date. Details. I NEED details.” Sheridan laughed helplessly at Suzie’s barrage of questions. “Yes,” she said shyly. Staring in Luis’s wake. “He asked me out last week, but we haven’t had time to get together yet.” “WHAT?!?! You’re telling me the sexiest man alive asked you out, and you haven’t MADE time to go out with him. You see? That’s the difference in you and me. If I were you…let’s just say…on second thought,” she paused. Dropping her voice to a whisper as a couple of students trudged in, “just know I wouldn’t waste any time getting to know that man better.” “Suzie!” Sheridan laughed in embarrassment. “You’re awful.” “Nah,” Suzie giggled as they walked toward the door. “You’re just jealous ‘cause I have the guts to do exactly what you want to do. And don’t give me that look. Come on, Sheridan. Honey. Your face is an open book. You so want the man. And don’t think he doesn’t know it,” she laughed. All the way back to her classroom. Oh god. Am I that obvious, she wondered as she spotted Luis down the hall. Trying to break up the rather large crowd that had formed in the middle of the hall.

“Luis? What’s going on here?” she queried. Joining the rather large group that seemed to have gathered. Around…around Kay, she realized as she heard the younger girl’s voice clearly. “Twenty bucks?!?! Are you kidding me? What are you SMOKING?!?! Come on,” she yelled in disgust. “If you want one of these,” she said. Holding a tee-shirt up. Sheridan couldn’t quite make out what was on the front of it. “If you want a tee-shirt with Harmony’s own Prince Charming on the front of it proving how much of an ass he really is, you’re going to have to pay big bucks.” She looked to Luis in confusion when she heard him groan. And saw him cover his face.

“And it gets even worse,” he muttered. When Theresa’s voice could be heard over the crowd. “KAY BENNETT!!! What were you thinking?” she practically screamed. “You cut ME out of the picture,” she whined. Picture. Whoa! What picture? Oh god. She didn’t. She did! “Let me see that,” she said. Pushing her way through the crowd of onlookers and grabbing the shirt from Kay’s hands. Good lord. Luis was so right. Ethan would NEVER live this down. Kay tried unsuccessfully to hide the smirk on her face. Ms. Crane looked like she was going to pass out. Or KILL her, she thought. Biting her lip to keep from smiling as people starting thrusting money at her. Grabbing the tee-shirts from her hands. “Here!” Theresa squealed. Opening her purse and pulling out a wad of cash. “I was going to use this for...something else...but this is so much better. How many will that buy?” she asked cluelessly. Kay’s eyes widened as she counted out the money. Was Theresa just dumb or mentally ill? The crazy girl just handed her 200 dollars. Where…? “Kay Bennett!” Luis yelled. Grabbing the money from her and stuffing it back in his sister’s hands. "That's it! I hate to do this. But come with me. We're going to the office." Great, Kay thought. Just great. All that hard work for this. Ugh!



Chapter 22

“Wait a minute! Wait a minute!” Kay yelled. “Do we really have to do this? I mean, my dad’s going to kill me. Luis…you don’t want my death hanging over your head, do you?” Kay exaggerated. Giving him her best innocent look. “Cut it out, Kay. You’re forgetting the fact that I’ve known you your entire life. I know ALL your little tricks. And no offense, Kay. But Mother Theresa you’re NOT.” Kay’s mouth hung open in shock. Luis grabbed her by the arm and pulled her forward once more. “Okay…okay…so I’m the anti-heroine. Is that really so bad?” she pouted. Sheridan snickered in the background. And Luis couldn’t control the smile that took over his face.

“That’s better,” Kay said appreciatively. “See? That wasn’t so hard. So…what do you say? Are you going to cut me some slack? Even you have to admit, Ms. Crane, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity. Your nephew might have a future as a drag queen if all the Crane money dries up, and Daddy can’t buy his job for him. How in the world did HE make it out of Harvard?” Sheridan opened her mouth to answer her. But shut it when laughter escaped instead. “Kay,” Luis warned. “What?” she huffed. “I think it’s a valid question.”

“Keep talking and the deal’s off,” Luis answered. “Deal? You’re cutting me a deal? There is a God. Thank you, Luis,” she said happily. Catching him off-guard when she threw her arms around his neck in thanks. “Whoa! Slow down,” he chuckled. “I didn’t say I was letting you off scot-free.” “Great,” Kay muttered sarcastically. “Ms. Crane…a little help here. Don’t you have him on a tight enough leash yet?” Sheridan choked in embarrassment. Luis smiled at her reaction and said, “Hand it over.”

“You’re kidding me,” Kay grumbled. “Do you realize how much money I spent getting those ridiculous tee-shirts made? My car money. That was my car money. Now I’ll never save enough,” she sighed. Digging through her pockets and pulling out the wad of cash. “What are you going to do with all that anyway?” she asked curiously. “There’s over $300 there.” “Give it to charity,” Sheridan suggested. Luis beamed at her. “Oh puh-leaze,” Kay groaned. “Would you stop it with the public flirting and googly eyes? Go on a real date already. Get it over with. You two are worse than Chris Hall and his squeeze of the week. What’s next? Making out on Ms. Crane’s desk? Oh…my…god! You didn’t!” she exclaimed when Sheridan looked at her feet. Her cheeks burning red.

“You know,” she grinned. A devious twinkle in her eyes. “That’s primo blackmail material. I could SO use that. But I won’t,” she rushed. Seeing Luis’s warning glare. And catching sight of the cuffs he passed back and forth from hand to hand. “I didn’t think so,” he smiled. “Now that we have that settled…I want you to get ALL those tee-shirts back. I don’t care how you do it. Just do it. Mr. Crane could press charges against you. You don’t want that. Do you Kay?” “No,” she mumbled. “Anything else, Drill Sergeant?” “An apology to Ms. Crane would be nice. Ethan IS her nephew.” “I’m sorry, Ms. Crane,” she said in a sincere enough voice. “I’ll never insult Tweedledum again,” she giggled evilly over her shoulder as she walked away.

“That girl is something else,” Luis laughed. Shaking his head. “Are we as bad as she claims?" Sheridan asked with a shy smile. "Must be," Luis grinned. "You might not always like what Kay has to say..." "She's...um, what's the word?" Sheridan said. "I think the word you're looking for is 'blunt'," Luis supplied. "I can't deny there's usually a kernel of truth in what she says. So...Ms. Crane," he teased. "Let's take the plunge. In Kay's words 'Get it over with'. What do you say?" he said. Giving her his most charming smile. "Saturday--'cause all the other nights are school nights," he said hurriedly. "8ish. I'll pick you up. Any objections?" he asked. Bringing her hand up to his lips. "No objections," Sheridan answered with a glorious smile. "See you then," Luis waved as he walked down the hall. A similar smile plastered on his face. "Hope you wear your dancing shoes," he called. Dancing shoes, indeed, Sheridan thought to herself as she admired the view. If I can pick my jaw up off the floor long enough.



Chapter 23
“Oh Luis,” Theresa sighed dreamily as she watched him glance in the mirror. Again. “This is so wonderful. I can’t wait for the wedding.” “Theresa,” Luis quirked an eyebrow at her. “You haven’t been inhaling that stuff, have you?” he asked. Pointing to the glittery pink polish on her nails. “Huh?” she asked cluelessly. “Forget it,” he grinned. Looking into his little sister’s starry eyes. “As I was saying…” Theresa bubbled doggedly. “It’s FATE, you know. That you and Ms. Crane met. Do you think she’d let me be one of her bridesmaids?” she asked. Twirling around and around. Giggling when she stumbled into her big brother’s arms. “Theresa! Please be more careful.” You’re already at a disadvantage naturally, you lovable klutz. “Do you want two broken arms?” “No! Silly!” she smiled when the doorbell rang. “That’ll be Whit,” she said. Skipping to the front door. Coming disastrously close to falling flat on her face twice.

“Whit!” she squealed exuberantly. Throwing her good arm around the other girl’s neck. “Come on in,” she ushered. “I need your help with something. Quick,” she whispered. Dragging her back to her room and shutting the door. “Oh my goodness! Whitney!” she babbled breathlessly. “This is the PERFECT opportunity. Tonight you-and my brother-are going to help me get in the Crane Mansion.” “WHAT!” Whitney yelled in surprise. “Theresa! Are you crazy? Wait! Don’t answer that. Stupid question. You’re certifiable, girl.” “Oh Whit,” Theresa sighed. “Why do you always say that?” Whitney crossed her arms and tapped her foot in irritation. “Do you want the Cliff Notes’ version? Or the real thing?”

Theresa ignored her. Flinging the door to her closet open and pulling out a black jumpsuit. “What do you think?” “Crane security will mis-know you’re a stalker and arrest you on the spot.” “Whit,” Theresa whined. “Quit trying to steal my fun. Luis doesn’t know it yet. But he’s going to get me free admittance onto Crane grounds. And the rest…well, I’ll make up the rest as I go along. I’m going to do it anyway,” she said. Trying to pull her pink tank over her head and groaning in frustration when it got stuck. On her bothersome cast. Oh well. It was worth it. Ethan had come to her house with flowers. Roses. All because of that cast. She wondered…what would he bring her if she…nah. “Thank you, Whitney,” she beamed as her best friend helped her slip the shirt over her head. And she stepped into the jumpsuit. “All done. How do I look?” she asked. Turning around slowly. “Like a Catwoman reject,” Whitney muttered.

“Theresa,” they heard Luis call. “I’m about to leave. Just wanted to say bye.” “Bye, Luis. Have fun,” she shouted. “Hurry, Whit. Help me out that window. I have to stow away in the back of Luis’s car before he gets in. Oh wait,” she said. Biting her lip. “Stall him. I’ll never make it if you don’t.” “Theresa,” Whitney hissed. “I promise…I won’t mention FATE or DESTINY for a whole week. Scout’s honor,” she pouted. “Cheater!” Whitney laughed when she saw Theresa’s crossed fingers. “If I didn’t love you so much…” “Thank you,” she grinned. Throwing one leg over the window sill. Whitney rolled her eyes when she heard a soft “Ouch.” And pulled Theresa’s bedroom door shut behind her. “Luis? Sorry to bother you…but I need your help on something.”

Theresa barely stifled her giggles from her hiding place in the backseat as she listened to her brother sing along with the music on the radio. Singing was best left up to her. She was the one with the ‘real’ talent. Her heart sped up when the car rolled to a stop and a light penetrated the blanket she was hidden under. Please. Please. It’s fate. Don’t mess with fate. God wanted her to be Mrs. Ethan Crane. He wouldn’t let her down now. She breathed a sigh of relief when the car started moving again. And she was still safe and sound. “Ow,” she whispered. Rubbing her head when Luis’s sudden stop made her lurch forward. Crashing into the passenger seat. “What the hell,” she heard her brother swear. She held her breath until she heard the car door open and shut a few minutes later. Whew! That was close. Luis whistled the whole way to Sheridan’s cottage door. He tugged at his collar nervously. Unbuttoning the top button as he pushed the doorbell. “I’ll be right there,” he heard a familiar voice say. And just seconds later, he literally stopped breathing at the sight in front of him. He not only stopped breathing. His heart thudded to a stop.

“Luis?” Sheridan smiled nervously. “What? You don’t like the dress?” she asked. Looking down shyly. Finally he found his tongue. “Don’t like the dress? Don’t like the dress? Are you kidding me? I think I’m going to have to arrest you. It’s a crime to look that good,” he grinned. Admiring her beauty. From head to toe. “That dress is sheer perfection,” he whistled appreciately. It sure is sheer. That’s for damn sure, he thought. Gulping. “Red is most definitely your color.” ANY color is YOUR color, Luis, she thought with a smile. Staring at him. They were so caught up in each other…they didn’t notice Theresa steal away from Luis’s car and dart off in the distance. With a few stumbles, of course. The girl was anything BUT stealthy.



Chapter 24
“Oh my goodness! Oh my goodness!” Theresa squealed in the darkness. “I can’t believe this is really happening! I’m about to go inside the Crane Mansion! To Ethan’s room! Oh no,” she gasped when a voice slurred, “Who’s thwere?” She darted around the corner. Her back flat against the wall. Chest heaving from all the excitement. “I thaid who’s thwere?” the surly voice demanded. Her eyes widened when a figure stepped out into the moonlight.

And she realized it was none other than Mr. Crane. What was that he was wearing? She squinted. Trying to make it out in the darkness. Clamping a hand over her own mouth when it dawned on her. Mr. Crane was wearing a Batman costume! She looked down at her jumpsuit and grinned. He KNEW she was coming and wanted to make her feel welcome. How sweet! Since that was the case…she decided to come out of hiding.

“Hi, Mr. Crane!” she bubbled. Jumping out from the shadows. “BWA!!!” he screamed. That WAS him she heard screaming like a woman the night she broke her arm. Julian did a double take. More like a triple take. He clutched his brandy glass in one hand and rubbed his eyes with the other. Blinking. NO. He WASN’T dreaming. “C-C-C-C-atwoman?” he asked in disbelief.

“What?” Theresa asked dumbly. Even better, Julian thought. Giving her his best leer. Beauty. NO brains. “Do you have something in your eye, Mr. Crane?” Theresa asked cluelessly. “Uh…uh…no,” he answered. Slipping his arm around her shoulders. “What do you thay I give you a thour of the Mansion,” he grinned. “Bedrooms first,” he said. A devious twinkle in his eye as he led her inside.

“I can’t believe how beautiful your home is, Mr. Crane,” Theresa gushed. Twirling around. Her eyes lifted upward. “I feel just like Annie.” “That must make me Daddy Warbucks,” Julian said. Sidling up next to her and lifting her long brown hair off of her shoulder. His eyes rolled back in pleasure. Who needed Vicky Vale anyway? Suzanne paled in comparison to this lovely-how should he say it-vapid, perhaps? Theresa. “Oh Mr. Crane,” Theresa sighed. Stepping forward and placing a hand on the stair rail. “You promised me a tour. What are you waiting for? I want to see every room in this house.” Oh that could be arranged, dear girl. Ooo. He’d like nothing better than to…

“Have you ever been on Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous?” Theresa babbled as she tripped up the stairs. “That’s my FAVORITE show,” she said in a faraway voice. “Mr. Crane? I asked you a question,” she said. Turning around. Was Mr. Crane staring at her butt just now? “Uh…yes, Ca…Theresa? I think you lost an earring,” he said. Biting his lip in glee as he admired the view when she leaned down to search for it. God, she was easy. She hadn’t even been wearing earrings.

After about 15 minutes spent searching for the non-existent earring, they finally arrived at the second floor. “Right this way, dear,” he said. This was the best drunken haze he had ever had. “Make yourself comfortable,” he suggested. “Would you like something to drink?” “Whatever you have, Mr. Crane,” Theresa answered. Leaning back against the silk sheets with a dreamy sigh. If she closed her eyes, she could imagine she was in Ethan’s room. Oh my goodness, she thought. Shooting upright. “Ethan!”

What the hell, Julian thought. Rubbing his head where they’d collided. Ethan was a new one on him. But if the lovely girl wanted Ethan…he could BE Ethan. “Hold that thought,” he whispered. Scampering off the bed. Ethan. Ethan. He pulled his best stuffed shirt outfit out of the closet and thrust his arms through the sleeves of the dreadful sweater. “Oh Theresa,” he called. Waltzing back into the bedroom. Expecting to see her lying there. Waiting for him. On the bed. “Drat! Where is she?” He got his answer seconds later when Gwen’s shrill scream made his ears ring. “Oh my god!”



Chapter 25
“Wow! Luis,” Sheridan said breathlessly. “I didn’t know there was a place like this in Harmony,” she smiled. Luis looked at her in amazement. Then he grinned. “I was so sure you wouldn’t like this place,” he laughed. “What?” Sheridan asked. “I said…” he shouted. Trying to be heard over the noise of the crowd. “Forget it, Luis. Come on,” she said. Pulling him out on to the dance floor. “I want to dance.”

He felt a jolt of electricity pass through him when she placed her smaller hand in his and began moving to the music. He had never been with someone so…alive. He was having a hard time keeping up with her. That might have had something to do with the fact that his jaw was flapping open in a perpetual expression of awe. “Luis,” Sheridan laughed. Leaning in close. “Stop drooling, Officer,” she said in a throaty whisper. Her blue eyes sparkling with mirth as she placed his hands on her hips.

The music seemed to fade in the background as they danced. Like they had danced together forever. Only with each other. The woman dancing with such abandon in front of him was not the same woman who blushed furiously at his teasing remarks. This woman was sexy as hell. He was having a hard time deciding which Sheridan Crane he liked more. It surprised him when he realized he wanted to get to know all the quirks of her personality. All her little imperfections.

The music slowed. But he was still unable to catch his breath. You’re beautiful, he had the insane urge to say as they swayed gently with the strains of the soft Spanish melody. Instead he only pulled her closer. Laughing softly at the surprise in her blue eyes. And covering her bare back with one of his hands. The fingers of his other hand twined with hers.

Sheridan shivered when Luis caressed her skin softly. Slowly. Oh god, she thought. Somebody save me from myself. She felt herself drowning in his dark eyes. And he knew it, too, she realized. Ducking her head in embarrassment. A smile playing on her lips. She didn’t have to have eyes in the top of her head to see the smirk on Luis’s face. What was he doing to her? And did she even want him to stop?

Before she could answer her own question, the music ended. She slipped out of his arms. And escaped. She was afraid she couldn’t control herself much longer if he kept looking at her like that. The cool ocean breeze felt wonderful on her overheated skin, and she breathed in the salty air.

“Sheridan,” she muttered to herself. Crossing her arms over her chest and looking up at the starry sky. “You have to get ahold of yourself. What would Luis have done if you’d grabbed him and…? You know what? You’re nuts, girl. He’s just teasing you. I’m sure his heart doesn’t flutter like a schoolboy’s every time he sees YOU,” she sighed.

She gasped in surprise when an amused voice answered her question. “Worse,” he grinned. Walking towards her. And cupping her face. “HE gets the uncontrollable urge to do THIS,” he said. Giving her a toe-curling kiss. One that had her sliding her arms around his neck and holding on for dear life. And him smiling against her lips when she oaned softly into his mouth.

“You have my permission to do that whenever and wherever you get the urge, Officer,” she said breathlessly. A glorious smile on her face. She giggled as he took her up on her offer. Making the first kiss pale in comparison. “Ms. Crane,” he grinned. “You have a deal.”



Chapter 26
“Luis,” Sheridan giggled. As the man in question placed tiny kisses on her neck. “That tickles,” she laughed lightly. Squirming out of his grasp. He grinned at her. A devilish glint in his dark eyes. “Tickles, huh? Why Ms. Crane…what are your other ticklish spots?” he asked. Advancing on her. His hot breath on her neck as he leaned in closer to whisper in her ear. She turned scarlet with his softly spoken words. And trembled when he pressed her body up against her cottage door. Engaging her lips in a teasing kiss.

“Luis?” she whispered breathlessly. Unable to stop herself. “Would you like to come in?” she squeaked as he caressed her sides. Slowly. Tantalizingly. Great Sheridan, she scolded herself. Sound desperate much? Luis grinned at the expression of complete mortification on her face. He’d never seen anything more adorable. He cupped her jaw in the palm of his hand and gave her a sweet, lingering kiss on the lips. He reached his other hand past her and started fumbling with the door knob. “Dammit,” he muttered softly against her lips in frustration.

He pushed harder against the door. But still it would not give. He soon forgot all about it, though, as Sheridan tangled her hands in his hair and pulled him closer. He felt his back hit the door, and his dark eyes widened in shock. Wow, was the only thought he could manage. The lady could kiss like nobody’s business. And as much as he loved it…he didn’t want things to get too carried away. “Sheridan,” he gasped. A finger against her lips. “You don’t know what you’re risking. Kissing me that way,” he said seriously. “Luis, I…Luis!”

“Ouch!” he yelled. Rubbing his head in agony. “What the hell happened?” he asked. “Oh my god! I’m so sorry! Did I kill you? I didn’t kill you, did I?” a frantic voice babbled. “9-1-1! That’s it. I have to call 9-1-1.” He rolled his eyes. The voice could only belong to one person, and Sheridan confirmed his suspicions when she giggled, “Theresa! What are you doing here? And why are you dressed like Catwoman?” “Catwoman!” he exclaimed in surprise. Whipping his aching head around to take a better look. Instantly regretting it. “Luis,” Theresa trembled. “Don’t get the wrong idea. But I hid in your car when you drove over here for your date,” she rushed. “I went inside the Mansion, Ms. Crane,” she said. Pleading to a more lenient jury. “And Mr. Crane was so nice. Showing me around. He even took me to his room.”

“He took you to his room!” Luis bellowed. Sheridan imagined she could see the windows rattle with the force of his disgust. And anger. She placed a calming hand on Luis’s arm. But he didn’t seem to notice it. Theresa plowed ahead. Undeterred. “Then I went into Ethan’s room. I heard the shower running, and I sat down on the bed to wait for Ethan. I wanted to tell him how much fun I had the other day. And give him this,” she said. Producing one of Kay’s hideous tee-shirts. “I thought he might like to keep it as a souvenir. Ms. Crane? Are you alright?” she stopped mid-breath. When Sheridan choked. Desperately trying not to go into hysterics.

“Anyway,” she continued. “I heard…I found out Ms. Hotchkiss was with Ethan,” she said. Disappointment in her voice. “I got scared and hid. The next thing I knew…Ms. Hotchkiss was screaming. And Mr. Crane come running. Then Mrs. Crane burst through the door with a baseball bat and hit Mr. Crane over the head with it. It was so awful,” she said. Fat tears spilling out of her big brown eyes. “And then when he woke up and called her ‘Catwoman’, she hit him again. Ethan was so upset. I just wanted to go up to him and hug him,” she sniffled. Luis shook his head. Getting to his feet. “I was too afraid. Mrs. Crane swung that bat hard,” she said with wide eyes.

Sheridan couldn’t help her laughter. She was concerned about her brother. But Ivy had wanted to do something just like Theresa had described for YEARS. She finally sobered long enough to ask, “Did they go to the hospital?” “Ethan and Mr. Hotchkiss took him. But Mrs. Crane didn’t go. I had to escape out Ethan’s window,” she said. “I’ve been hiding in your cottage ever since. You aren’t mad, are you?” she asked hesitantly.

“No, Theresa. I’m not mad,” Sheridan reassured her. “But you don’t have to sneak into the Mansion. Just call first.” To give everyone fair warning. “Oh! Thank you so much!” she squealed excitedly. Nearly knocking her down with her exuberant hug. Sheridan winced as Theresa’s cast covered arm bumped the side of her head. “Oh my gosh! I didn’t hurt you, did I?” “Theresa!” Luis exclaimed in exasperation. “What?” she asked cluelessly. A smile blossoming on her lips as she watched Luis tend to Ms. Crane. She sighed blissfully. Proof that FATE existed.

“Are you sure you’re okay?” Luis whispered. Smoothing a hand over her hair. Staring into Sheridan’s twinkling blue eyes. “Yes,” she laughed. “But I’m not sure for how long,” she smiled. Glancing at Luis’s giddy teen sister. “You know what we talked about earlier tonight?” he grinned. She nodded her head in comprehension. The smile on her face stretching wider. “I’m dying here,” he groaned. "Will all our dates end like this, Luis?" she teased. He chuckled in response. "God I hope not," he sighed. Resisting the incredible urge to kiss her. "I'll call you," he said. Waving in goodbye. "Theresa," he called. And she watched 'til Luis's car disappeared from sight. Leaning back against the door and closing her eyes. Coming back home was proving to be the best thing she had ever done.



Chapter 27
“Whit!” Theresa squealed. Racing down the hall. “Theresa! Watch…” Theresa plowed over Charity without a second glance. Whitney groaned. “Out,” she finished. “Oh Whit,” Theresa bubbled. Swinging her cast covered arm around excitedly. “I have the best news! Guess what this is?” she squealed in delight. Whitney rolled her eyes. “Ethan Crane’s lunch menu?” Her sarcastic question didn’t even faze Theresa. “This is the list of nominees for Homecoming Queen.” “So,” Whitney said boredly after glancing at the list of names. “What’s so great about that?” “See that space at the bottom? That’s for write-ins, Whit. I am going to write myself in for Homecoming Queen! And I just know I’m going to win.”

“Theresa,” Whitney sighed in exasperation. “And just how do you plan on accomplishing this…this miracle?” Theresa grinned so big her face nearly split in two as she reached into her bookbag and pulled out a humongous stack of paper ballots. “Easy,” she boasted. “There’s 200 ballots here, Whitney.” “Theresa…No! That’s cheating.” “Aww. Don’t be such a spoilsport, Whit. I’m the most beautiful girl at this school. Not to mention the future Mrs. Ethan Crane. Who’s to say I wouldn’t win anyway? I’m just giving FATE a little helping hand. That’s all.” Then it’s not fate, you crazy, silly girl, she had the insane urge to say. Instead she kept her mouth shut. And said nothing. When did Theresa ever listen anyway? Case closed.

She could swear she saw Ms. Crane physically brace herself when she saw her and Theresa walking towards her. “Hi, Ms. Crane,” Theresa said breathlessly. “Here,” she said. Thrusting a handful of copies of the Homecoming ballots in her hands. “Give these out to everyone and tell them to vote for me.” “Um...okay,” Ms. Crane said slowly with a puzzled expression on her face. Whitney glared at Kay when she twirled her finger around her head right in front of Theresa and mouthed “Nutso.” Ms. Crane turned beet red when Theresa asked cluelessly, “What’s that Kay?” “Neato!” Kay exclaimed in a monotone voice. “I’ll be sure to vote for you…in the contest for dumbest female alive,” she muttered under her breath. Only Whitney heard her. And this time…she couldn’t help but laugh herself.

The bell rang, and Theresa skipped happily down the hall. Leaving Whitney standing there. With a helpless expression on her face. “There’s no one else like her, is there?” Ms. Crane said. Waving at her as she pulled the door to her classroom closed. “Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! Gracious Almighty King!” she heard Kay shout. And a chorus of laughter echoed down the hall. She sighed and walked off toward the gymnasium. She had to discuss a few things with Daddy. On the way, she passed Miguel helping Charity to her feet. She shook her head as she noticed Charity limping down the hall. Another one bites the dust, she couldn’t help thinking.

“Chad!” she jumped in surprise when she opened the door to her daddy’s office and found him sitting behind his desk. “Whitney! Look…I’m sorry ‘bout sitting in your pop’s chair. Just ‘magining how it might feel to be in his place, you know?” Whitney smiled at him. “I thought you liked music, Chad.” “I do,” he answered with a grin. “But if that don’t work out…” “I’m sorry, Chad,” she laughed softly. “But I just can’t see you as a high school P.E. coach.” “Nah,” he chuckled. “Guess I can’t either. Coach Russell,” he said in surprise. “Me and Whit…your daughter was just talking. ‘Bout…nevermind. I’ll be out here if you need me,” he called over his shoulder as he walked out the door.

“Daddy,” she began in a rush. “I was wondering…I want to…Daddy, I want to take some time off from tennis. Concentrate on school. It’s my senior year, Daddy. And it’s almost half over. I’ve missed everything because I’ve been so busy with tennis. I…” “Whitney,” her father said quietly. Seating himself at the edge of his desk. “I expected more from you. Tennis is your future, Sweetheart. Not a couple of dances or football games in high school. I thought you understood that. That you and I wanted the same things. Whitney…you’re an excellent tennis player. You can go far. Be a success. Do all those things I wasn’t able to do.”

But that’s you, Daddy, she wanted to say. This is me. I want to be…I want to be normal. Have fun. Throw caution to the wind. Like Theresa. Whoa!!! Wait a minute!!! Not THAT far. I just want to enjoy my last year of high school. “Daddy…I…” “Coach Russell! Yo! Somebody’s here to see you,” Chad yelled. Her father walked over to her and pulled her into a hug. “We’ll talk about this later. Okay, Sweetheart?” “Okay, Daddy,” she whispered with a tiny smile. She sighed in resignation. She couldn’t let her daddy down. And she wasn’t going to, she decided. She was going to give it her all. For him.



Chapter 28
Luis barely had time to knock on the door before Sheridan threw it open and pulled him into a passionate kiss. He kissed her back fervently. Slamming the cottage door shut and pushing her toward the sofa. “Wow,” he gasped breathlessly. “What was that for?” “Shut up and kiss me, Luis,” Sheridan panted. And Luis happily obliged. But then he remembered the flowers. “Sheridan,” he mumbled against her lips. “Sheridan…” “Argh! What now?” she groaned. “Luis,” she whined. “You’ve been out of town on a case for weeks. And I’ve missed…oh, Luis,” she said with a brilliant smile. “They’re so beautiful. Mmm. Sweet and sexy,” she purred. Tracing his lips with a brightly colored nail. “Beautiful,” he laughed. “Maybe before they were crushed. There’s something different about you,” he teased. “Sheridan? Are you sure Suzie’s spirit didn’t take over your body?”

Sheridan blushed scarlet and laughed softly. Luis grinned and lifted her chin with a finger to place a gentle kiss on her lips. “Aha! She’s still in there,” he said. Laughing when she punched him playfully. “Tsk, tsk, Ms. Crane. I thought you were more grown up than that,” he teased. Grabbing her in his arms and pulling her close. “Oh…I’m all grown up, Officer,” she whispered. Settling on his lap and placing her hands on his shoulders. Her blue eyes sparkling with happiness. “Yes, you are,” Luis answered. Cupping her cheek in the palm of his hand. He felt a strange sensation in his heart when she looked at him. With those incredible blue eyes. And kissed his palm sweetly before laying her golden head against his shoulder with a sigh. I’ve missed you, too, he thought as he stroked her back through the thin cotton of her top.

“Luis,” she giggled. Sometime later. “We’ve been sitting here like this for nearly half an hour. And as much as I’m enjoying it…” “Okay,” he laughed. Releasing her and watching her contentedly as she strolled out of the living room and into the kitchen. If he didn’t know better, he’d think he was…no. It was too soon. The woman was amazing. But they still had so much to learn about each other. Luis. Do you hear yourself, Buddy, he could almost hear Hank say. You’re making plans for the future, my friend. Whether you admit it or not. And you see Sheridan Crane in it. He did, he realized. Smiling at her as she came back into the living room carrying an assortment of cartons. “I know you said you didn’t care much for Chinese food,” she said. Biting her lip nervously. “But…you’ve never had it Sheridan style,” she laughed. Setting everything down on the coffee table before them and picking up some chopsticks. “Hmm. Sheridan style,” he grinned. “I HAVE to try this.”

“I have a new appreciation for Chinese cuisine,” he teased. As she sat down beside him on the sofa after dinner. “So…what’s next on the agenda for this already memorable date?” “A movie?” she asked hesitantly. “If that’s too boring, we can go out. Do something else more exciting,” she babbled. “Sheridan,” he said. Hushing her. “A movie sounds great. Just not one of those sappy romances.” “I hate to break it to you, Luis. But those ‘sappy romances’ are all I own,” she revealed with a poker face. “Well…Ms. Crane,” he said in mock disappointment. “I guess this is where we part ways.” “Luis,” she smiled. “I’m kidding. I have all kinds of movies. Take your pick,” she said. Showing him a variety of choices. He finally made a decision. A compromise. But for the life of him, he couldn’t remember the name of the movie. Or the actors in it. Because he was too conscious of her warmth beside him. And when she curled up against him and fell asleep halfway through the movie, he stopped watching the film and started watching her.

“Lady,” he whiepered softly. Brushing her blond hair back from her face. “What are you doing to me?” he asked. Kissing her forehead and sighing as she snuggled deeper into his arms. He could hold her like this forever, he realized. And never get tired. His own lids drooped with fatigue as the closing credits scrolled across the black screen, and he switched the television and DVD player off. Plunging them into darkness. Except for the moonlight. “No,” she mumbled. When he tried to disengage himself. And leave her. “Luis,” she sighed in her sleep as he lifted her easily in his arms and carried her to her room. He pushed the covers back and lay her down gently. Caressing her cheek one last time and turning to go. Until he heard her soft whisper. So quiet he was afraid he had imagined it. “Luis,” she repeated. Her blue eyes shining in the darkness. “Stay with me. Please,” she said sleepily. Looking like a little girl in her sleep rumpled clothing. At that moment, he realized he was a goner. She had him hook, line, and sinker. There was nothing he could do but comply with her wishes. And hold her ‘til the morning sun rose.



Chapter 29
Pilar hummed softly under her breath as she walked the short distance from the Mansion to Sheridan’s cottage. A curious expression on her face as she spotted Luis’s jeep in the driveway. Early visiting hours, she thought. Maybe he was just stopping by before he had to go into work this morning, she rationalized. Continuing on her merry way. She stopped when she heard Mrs. Crane’s almost frantic call. “Pilar! Pilar! I just have to talk to somebody. Oh Pilar,” she gushed. “It’s so awful.”

Pilar listened with half an ear as she turned the knob to the cottage door and pushed it open gently. That’s odd, she thought. Where ARE they? Maybe they were just enjoying a nice breakfast outside. She sighed wearily as Ivy continued to babble beside her. When was she going to learn? Sometimes she felt more like Ivy’s Mammy than her housekeeper.

“Yes, Mrs. Crane,” she said politely when Ivy questioned if she was listening. “Julian is having a fit, Pilar. Threatening to disown Ethan. Throw him out of the Mansion. Swears up and down he won’t put up with Ethan’s double life.” “Double life?” she asked. Her brows knitting in confusion. “A dress!” Ivy exclaimed. “A hooker’s dress and red high heels ten sizes too small for him, Pilar. Oh god,” Ivy moaned. Raising a hand to her forehead. Like she was going to faint. “My son is a cross-dresser. You don’t think Ethan’s gay, do you Pilar?”

“Mrs. Crane,” Pilar said calmly. “I’m sure you’re overreacting.” Although…Ethan had always had feminine tendencies as a child. No, she thought with a shake of her head. That was a product of too much coddling on Ivy’s part. Ethan was NOT gay. “And Sam is such a manly man,” Ivy sighed. Following her as she carried fresh towels to Sheridan’s bathroom. “Oh my god!” Ivy exclaimed. “Way to go Sheridan!” Pilar took one look at her son and Sheridan tangled in each other’s embrace and went ballistic. “DIOS MIOS! HAVE ALL MY CHILDREN FORSAKEN THEIR MOTHER?!?!

Luis shot straight up in the bed. Grabbing his gun from the nightstand and fumbling with the safety. And in the process…knocking Sheridan to the floor. Ivy winced at the thud she made. “Who’s there?” he yelled. Squinting against the bright morning sunshine. “Oh,” Sheridan moaned. “Dammit,” she grumbled. “This bed’s so hard,” she said. Rubbing the remainder of sleep from her blue eyes. “Ivy?” she asked. A hilarious, perplexed look on her face. “What’s wrong with Pilar?” she asked. Climbing to her feet with great difficulty and rubbing her sore muscles. “I think I know,” Luis said. Startling her. “Oh god!” Sheridan shrieked. “She thinks…she saw…oh god,” she screamed. Covering her beet red face with her hands. “This is almost as bad as getting caught making out with Matt whatshisface in the confessional booth by Sister Mary Agnes. It’s worse!” she groaned in mortification.

Luis smirked at her. Then burst into raucous laughter. “What’s worse than that?” “Worse!” Pilar yelled at the top of her lungs. “I’ll tell you what’s worse!” Luis-and Sheridan-cringed as she proceeded to give them BOTH a tongue-lashing in a few carefully chosen Spanish phrases. Ivy stood there. Slack jawed. New appreciation for her demure, almost saintly maid…er, friend. “Brava! Brava!” she clapped. A Cheshire grin on her face as Pilar finished her piece and whirled out of the room. She followed. But not before sticking her blond head back in the door and giving them a few words of her own. “By the way…congratulations, Sheridan. You are one LUCKY woman,” she swooned. “Tata.” Sheridan threw herself face first into her pillows and released a string of very unladylike words. While Luis lay back. His hands behind his head. A wide grin stretching across his face. “Wow! You are so bad, Ms. Crane,” he teased mercilessly. This was one incident he was NEVER going to forget.



Chapter 30
“Whitney!” Theresa squealed. “I’m so glad to finally get this thing off,” she gushed cheerfully. You’re not the only one, Whitney thought. Ducking. Theresa was dangerous enough as it was. But that cast…the casualty list grew everyday. It was a mishap waiting to happen. “And it’s perfect timing, too. I can’t wait ‘til they announce that I’m Homecoming Queen.” Whitney sighed loudly. Picking up a magazine to thumb through while they waited for Theresa’s name to be called.

“Theresa. You are hopeless. HOPELESS, you hear? Who said you were going to win? You’re not even on the nominees list” Theresa’s dark brown eyes glazed over. Whitney groaned. Sure fire way to tell the girl was in Fantasy Land again. What was she saying? Theresa LIVED in Fantasy Land. “No…I’m not,” she giggled. “But I AM going to win. Just you wait and see.” You WILL see Whit. Scrawling Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald 289 times wasn’t easy when you only had one hand. But she’d do it again in a heartbeat. After all…she was just giving FATE a helping hand.

“Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald,” the nurse called. And Theresa sprang to her feet. Bouncing over to her. “That’s me,” she bubbled. The nurse eyed her warily over the rim of her precariously perched glasses. “Okay, dear,” she said in a rather condescending tone of voice. Then turned to Whitney and barraged her with questions. “How often does she have these manic episodes? Is she taking any medication? Has she…?” “Whoa! Wait a minute!” Whitney said. Barely keeping the laughter out of her voice. “She’s here to get her cast off,” she told the older woman. The woman’s green eyes narrowed with suspicion. “Really,” Whitney said in exasperation. Finally the woman took her word for it. But it took a lot of convincing. “Prozac,” ehe muttered as she walked away. Thank goodness her mother showed up.

“Alright, Theresa,” her mom said pleasantly. “I’ll get you set up, and Dr. Alba will be in shortly.” “Thank you, Dr. Russell,” Theresa beamed. Jumping off the exam table as soon as Eve was out of sight. “Do you think Ethan will come?” “Ugh!” Whitney exclaimed. Covering her ears. If she had to listen to another word she’d scream. Theresa rolled her dark eyes at her. Trying to pry her hands off her ears. Was the girl for real, she wondered as she watched Theresa animatedly detail her latest plan to snag Ethan Crane. Good thing she couldn’t read lips to save her life. The less she knew the better. But wait a minute…what was that strange, high-pitched beeping noise?

“Theresa!” she hissed. Glancing down and noticing the tube Theresa was standing on. That kind of looked like…”CODE BLUE! CODE BLUE!” she heard someone yell. Theresa truly was hazardous to the health of Harmony’s good citizens, she realized as she peeked around the curtain separating them from the next cubicle and witnessed the flurry of activity. “Ouch!” Theresa whined. Rubbing her elbow where it had hit the corner of the exam table when Whitney shoved her. “What was that for?” Whitney ignored her. How long was it before being Theresa’s best friend cost her her life?

“Hello, Miss Lopez-Fitzgerald,” Dr. Alba greeted in a monotone voice. “Lot of excitement going on next door, huh?” he asked with bland smile. “Time to rid you of this contraption,” he said. Inspecting Theresa’s cast. “Looks like you have yourself a fine collection of signatures here, young lady. Hmm. That’s interesting. There’s only ONE name on here. Ethan Crane. Who is he?” he asked curiously. Theresa raised a hand to her heart. Gasping in horror. “You don’t know who Ethan Crane is?” she trembled. “Oh,” she said. Shaking her head sadly. “He’s only the greatest man that ever lived.”

Dr. Alba arched a white brow at her and continued his handy work. “There you go,” he said in a pleased voice. “All done. Good as new.” Theresa was still in shock, though. The thought that someone, ANYONE, would not know the one and only Ethan Crane was almost too much for her. Whitney had never seen her so pale. But that was before…before Dr. Alba’s next words. “Everything seems to be in order. A little pale,” he smiled. “But that’s to be expected. You’ve worn that cast for weeks. And you’ll need to work a little…regain your strength. You’ll be fine,” he said kindly. Patting her on the arm. Obviously he had never met anyone like Theresa, Whitney thought. “Oh my god!” Theresa shrieked. Catching sight of her pale, scrawny arm. “Or not,” Dr. Alba recanted. As Theresa’s eyes rolled back in her head. And she passed out cold.

Chapters 31-40