Chapter 43

“Luis? Buddy? Are you sure you don’t need me to…” “Hank,” Luis sighed. “Go home. Better yet…go get your wife and kids. Jake’s going to give Rebecca a nervous breakdown.” Hank chuckled. And gave Luis a brotherly slap on the shoulder. “Look…Luis…don’t expect her to just take you back. Like nothing happened. Give her time.” “I’ll give her all the time it takes, Hank. But I’m never leaving her or those two kids in there again,” Luis vowed. Hank smiled. This was the Luis he knew. Loved as a brother. “Good luck, Man.” You’re going to need it, he thought. But then…he didn’t have to tell Luis that. “Thanks,” Luis muttered. “I’ll pack up the rest of your things and bring them over some other time.” Luis nodded his head and raised a hand in goodbye. Hank’s SUV rolled out of the driveway and out of sight before he turned around…and she was there.

She studied him with cautious blue eyes. “Luis.” He wheeled the chair closer. Until he was a breath’s distance away. “Sheridan…I…” “DADDY!” Ali shouted joyously. Throwing herself into his arms and raining kisses on his face. “Oh Daddy! I missed you so much,” she cried. “Please say you’re home, Daddy. Please,” she begged. Her big blue eyes hopeful. Luis combed his fingers through her silky blond mane and looked up at Sheridan once more. Sheridan lifted a shaky hand to her mouth as tears filled her eyes. “I’m home,” he said simply. Holding out his hand to her. “Oh Daddy,” Ali sobbed. Clinging to his neck. “I love you.” “I love you, too, AliCat.” Sheridan wiped angrily at the tears that spilled from her own eyes and walked inside ahead of them. Luis’s hand fell to his side. Time indeed. Hank certainly wasn’t kidding.

“Where’s Cris?” “He’s asleep,” Ali sniffled. “Daddy,” she said. Removing her head from his shoulder and staring into his brown eyes. Her tiny hands framing his face. “Don’t ever leave again. Promise?” she said solemnly. Luis kissed her palms gently. “Cross my heart and hope to die.” “Ali…” Sheridan interrupted softly. “Go wash your hands for dinner.” “But Mommy,” Ali protested. “Just let me hold Daddy. A little while longer. Please…” she pleaded. “Okay,” Sheridan smiled tenderly. “Just a little while longer,” she conceded. Luis watched her disappear down the hallway to their son’s room. Ali tucked her head under his chin. And held on.

Luis smiled at the way his son’s sleepy brown eyes lit up when he stretched his arms wide to hold them both. Sheridan watched them from the doorway to the kitchen. A sad smile on her lips. Her blue eyes…usually so open, so expressive…revealing nothing to him. A timer went off in the kitchen, and she crossed her arms about her middle. “The breadsticks are done. Have you eaten, Luis?” she asked. Not waiting for an answer. “We’re having scetti, Daddy. Mommy made it just for me.” Luis’s brown eyes twinkled. Ali was as smart as a whip. But she’d always had trouble saying ‘spaghetti.’ All that came out was ‘scetti,’ and it stuck. Just one of his little daughter’s many endearing traits. Scetti was her favorite when she wasn’t feeling well. “AliCat,” he said in concern. “Are you sick, Sweetie?” “No,” Ali shook her head vigorously. “Just sad. But I’m all better now,” she smiled sweetly. Kissing his cheek softly and slipping from his lap.

“C’mere, Sweetie,” Sheridan cooed. Taking Cristian from Luis’s arms. Cristian fussed when she tried to ease him down in his high chair. "Ma-Ma…Ma-Ma…” Luis’s jaw fell open. “Sheridan? Did you hear that?” “Daddy,” Ali giggled. “Duh,” she rolled her blue eyes at him. “Cris’s been saying that for a long time now. He can walk, too.” “Ali…” Sheridan chided. “Sheridan? Is it true?” Sheridan set a heaping plate of pasta down in front of him. “What Luis? The part about Cristian talking for weeks? Or walking?” she questioned. “Both,” he said. “Actually…that’s the clearest he’s been in the last two weeks. He just started babbling one day, and we finally figured out what he was saying,” she laughed softly. “And Ali’s exaggerating…he’s been trying to pull himself up using the furniture. See that faint little bruise right there?” Luis nodded. “He fell and hit his cheek on the coffee table,” Ali piped up. “My little Cris,” she smiled. Caressing his soft cheek with her thumb. “He’s becoming quite the little daredevil.” Luis’s heart skipped a beat. Not ‘our’ Cris anymore. Hers.

The hope in Luis’s heart dwindled more and more during their shared meal. Sure…Ali had welcomed him back with wide open arms, and a heart as full as the day he’d left. And he loved her all the more for it. Cristian had smiled and carried on. But Cristian was like that with everyone. He never met any strangers. Strangers…that’s what they were like. Strangers sitting down at a dinner table. Only a month. And he had missed SO much. “Daddy,” Ali crinkled up her button nose. “Guess what?” “What, AliCat?” he put on a happy face. “Mommy says I start school in a few more weeks. I’m going to go to the same school as Jake,” she said proudly. “Mommy’s going to take me shopping and buy me all kinds of pretty clothes. Can you come with us, Daddy?” “Ali…Baby, Daddy doesn’t like to shop,” Sheridan answered for him. Ali’s little face fell, and Luis reached a gentle hand out to her chin. “For you, AliCat…I’ll do anything.” “Oh Daddy,” she sighed blissfully. “I’m so happy,” she said. Pushing her chair back from the table and hurrying to his side to give him yet another hug. She couldn’t touch him enough it seemed.

Sheridan pushed her own chair back with a heavy sigh and started gathering up the dishes for the sink. “Sheridan…let me help you,” he offered. “I can do it. Really.” Her back stiffened, and she stayed still for several seconds. “It’s no problem, Luis. I can do fine on my own.” Her words struck deep, and he had a feeling she wasn’t just talking about the dishes. “Why don’t you go into the living room with Ali and Cris? Ali’s got a new movie. Don’t you think Daddy’ll like it, Sweetie?” An adorable grin lit up Ali’s pretty features, and her blue eyes sparkled with excitement. “Will you Daddy?” “Here,” Sheridan said. Lifting Cristian out of his high chair and handing him over to Luis. She jerked her hand away awkwardly when it brushed against his. “The VCR’s all set.” “Aren’t you coming, too, Mommy?” Ali asked. “Soon. I’ll just finish these,” she nodded at the soapy dishes in the sink. “And be right there. If you’re extra good for Daddy…I might even make some popcorn,” she whispered. Tickling Ali’s tummy and making her giggle. “I’ll be good. I promise,” Ali smiled.

She never did come. Not that Ali noticed anyway. She fell asleep before the opening credits had finished scrolling across the screen. He watched her in peaceful slumber, and he realized with a pang, just how much he had missed her as he stroked her blond hair back from her precious face. Her and Cristian. His wife. Of course, he knew he missed them all. But he never fully realized how dead inside he was without them until he had them back. At least he hoped he had them back, he thought to himself as he watched the gentle rise and fall of Cristian’s chest. His eyelids drooped heavily, and he fought to hang on. Not to waste another moment of this time together. Just before he gave in and closed his eyes, he saw her face. Her beautiful tear-stained face as she cradled their sleeping son to her chest and smoothed a hand over Ali’s back. Cristian’s dark head lolled against her shoulder as she leaned forward and brushed a feather-light kiss against his forehead. “Always, Luis.”

Chapter 44

“You’re doing a great job, Luis. Just a few more steps. You can do it.” Luis grunted with the effort it took to push his feet the last few inches forward. Abby reached up and wiped the sweat from his brow. Her hazel eyes twinkling. “Honestly, Luis. You’re progressing wonderfully. Why the sad face?” she asked as she helped ease him back into his wheelchair. “It’s taking too long,” Luis grumbled. “While I’m stuck in this,” he pointed to the hated chair, “my kids are growing up without me.” “Oh now,” Abby clucked. Tucking a tawny hair behind her ear. “You’re there for it all, Luis. Be thankful for that at least.” “I am, but…” “No buts,” Abby warned. “There’s something else I want to talk to you about.” Luis’s mouth hung open momentarily, but he closed it when he recognized the no-nonsense quality of her tone. “Yes, M’am.” Abby rolled her eyes and clasped her hands together in her lap. “Why won’t you allow your wife to come to these sessions? She can only help, Luis.” Luis scowled darkly at her. “Oh…I see. More of this foolish pride stuff. Wake up and smell the coffee, Lo-Fitz,” Abby threw her hands up in the air. “Your problems are never going to be solved this way.”

Luis remained silent as she ranted some more. “Involve her. Reach out to her before you push her away for good. I know you’ve moved back home. And I’m thankful for that. Believe me. You’re a little bit more pleasant to be around,” she quirked an eyebrow at him. “But you’re still keeping her at arms’ length.” “Are you finished now?” Luis growled. “As a matter of fact, Mister,” Abby declared. Turning him around so fast it made his head spin. “I’m not, and we’re not. I took the liberty of doing something you should have done,” she whispered in his ear. “I called Sheridan.” “Dammit, Abby…” “Dr. Stone to you, Bozo,” Abby teased as she walked on light feet to admit Sheridan. “Sheridan! Come in,” she said warmly. Squeezing the taller woman’s hand. “We were just talking about you.” “Really,” Sheridan pursed her lips. “That’s why Luis is making that sour face. Dr. Stone…maybe I shouldn’t be here.” “Nonsense,” Abby said in a lilting voice. “It’s Abby by the way. Dr. Stone’s so…formal.” Pushing Sheridan forward. “Luis needs you. Don’t you, Luis?” Luis looked up into his wife’s glistening blue eyes. And he realized it was true…”I do,” he said softly. Sheridan rewarded him with just the hint of a smile. The first one in over a month. Since that day. Not to mention the first one he had been the direct recipient of.

“Over here, Sheridan,” Abby instructed. “Luis…Sheridan’s going to help you take your first steps without the bar. Think you can handle that, Sheridan?” Sheridan nodded her blond head slowly. “Great,” Abby smiled widely. “I’ll help you get this big lug of a man to his feet,” she teased. “Ha ha,” Luis mocked as she grabbed one of his arms. “Put your arm around his waist like this,” Abby demonstrated. Luis sucked in a deep breath at her gentle touch, and his dark eyes bore into hers. This was the closest she’d been…she hadn’t allowed him to touch her since his return home a couple weeks ago. Abby grinned to herself as she watched the pair stare into each other’s eyes. “Ahem,” she finally cleared her throat when the gaze went on a wee bit too long. “Ready? Remember…baby steps this time.” Luis shuffled his feet forward. Concentrating all his might into that one simple action. Sheridan tightened her grip around him. “You can do it, Luis,” she encouraged. He groaned and lifted his heavy limbs again. “Ali believes in you.” Abby stood back and watched in amazement. Luis was performing above and beyond her expectations. “Cristian believes in you.” Luis grit his teeth in determination. “I believe in you,” she said softly. And his heart soared with hope as he took the remaining steps. “Luis!” Sheridan cried joyously. Forgetting all the past weeks of hurt momentarily and throwing her arms around him. “You did it! I’m so proud of you.” Luis’s brown eyes shined down at her, and he reached a shaky hand to her cheek. “We did it.” “We ALL did it,” Abby proclaimed. “What? You can’t forget my utter brilliance,” she joked. “Time for you to call it a day, Lo-Fitz,” she smiled. Pointing to his chair. Sheridan stepped from Luis’s embrace awkwardly. Watching as Abby helped him seat himself.

“See, Lo-Fitz,” Abby whispered in his ear as she escorted them down the hall. “You’re a pretty tough guy on your own. But you and Sheridan as a team…you can’t be beat.” “I’m sorry, Dr. Stone…Abby,” Sheridan quickly corrected. “I didn’t catch what you said.” “Oh,” Abby smiled at her with twinkling hazel eyes. “Nothing. Just goofing around before my next appointment. They’re not all as gorgeous as your hunk of a husband, Sheridan,” Abby grinned. Stepping back from Luis’s wheelchair with a flourish and admiring the pink tint staining his cheeks. Sheridan laughed in embarrassment. “My next guy…don’t tell him I said this Lo-Fitz or off with your head,” she warned. “The old guy kinda looks like Popeye. I have the insane urge to inspect his teeth for spinach.” Sheridan choked on her own laughter. “Gee, Abby,” Luis grinned up at her. “You don’t talk about people, do you?” “Only about the ones that give me a hard time,” she told him. At his stricken look, she laughed. “Uh huh. See? You know you’ve been being Mr. Grumpy. But you’re lucky, Lo-Fitz. I like you despite your bastard attitude. I can see the hints of a great guy peeking through every now and then.” Abby took Sheridan off-guard by pulling her into an impromptu hug. “Dish it right back out, Honey,” she advised in a whisper. “Be a hard-ass,” she advised. “Um…naughty thoughts popping up in my brain. Oops!” she held a hand to her mouth. Breaking up when she saw Sheridan’s scarlet complexion. “See you tomorrow, Luis. And you better bring HER with you.”

Luis leaned his head back against the headrest and closed his eyes with a sigh. If he’d been watching, he would have caught Sheridan watching him tenderly out of the corner of her eye as she steered them towards home. But when he opened his eyes again, those emotions were carefully masked. “You don’t have to come tomorrow if you don’t want to,” he said quietly. She glanced at him distractedly as she flipped on her blinker and made the turn that would lead them to Ali and Cristian. “I…do you want me to come? I won’t come if you don’t want me to,” she said quickly. He could hear the disappointing brimming in her voice. His fists clenched at his sides as he pushed down the temptation to reach out to her. Uncertainty holding him back. “I want you to come,” he finally admitted. “Good,” she half-smiled. Stretching out a hand to turn on the radio. “I’m glad. I want to be there, Luis. I want to help you.” And it dawned on him…HE wanted her help. He NEEDED her to help. Damn. He just needed her period, and he was only just realizing truly how much. Their house loomed up ahead, and he smiled as he saw Jake chasing Ali to and fro in the front yard. Smiled as he heard the sweet notes of their song…”Imagine”…play over the radio waves. And he grasped her hand in his and brought it to his lips. Kissing the cool metal of her golden wedding band and brushing his lips gently across her palm. “Sheridan…I…” he paused when she slipped her hand free from his. “Sheridan…” He watched sadly as she met Gwen at the front door and scooped Cristian from her hold. He didn’t have to dwell on the feeling of someone squeezing his heart. The dull ache. Before Ali threw open the passenger door. Shrieking for help as Jake gave hot pursuit. “Daddy!”

Ali’s blue eyes sparkled as they roamed the store’s interior. Luis grinned. Chuckling to himself. And another shopper is born. “What’s so funny?” Sheridan looked at him oddly. “Nothing,” he swallowed hard. Things weren’t the best between them lately, but they HAD been markedly improving. And he didn’t want to do ANYTHING to jeopardize that. “Nothing,” he repeated. Leaning heavily on the cane Abby had presented to him just yesterday. He felt like…more…with it. He couldn’t explain it. “Daddy,” Ali whispered in awe. “Look at all the pretty clothes.” Sheridan’s blue eyes smiled down at their daughter. “I’m sure they’ll look even prettier ON you. Are you ready, Sweetie?” she asked. Extending her hand. “Yes, Mommy,” Ali replied sweetly. Slipping her tiny hand in her mother’s. “Luis…why don’t you go on back to the dressing room?” He arched a dark brow at her. “Yes, Luis,” she rolled her blue eyes. “See? You’re not the only Dad here,” she said. Nodding at the tall, owlish man wearing the most bored expression on his face Luis had seen to date. “You might as well stake out a seat. We’re going to be here for a while.” He resisted the urge to groan until he saw the happy smile on Ali’s full pink lips. “Ali’s going to be your model, aren’t you, Baby?” Ali’s response was giddy laughter. “Bye, Daddy,” she waved as Sheridan tugged her forward. “Bye, AliCat,” he waved with a grin.

“Excuse me, Sir,” the Owl Man said. Vacating his chair immediately when he saw him. “Have my seat.” Luis resisted the urge to scowl. He was just being polite. But he hated others’ pity. Because that was exactly what it was. He settled in the high-backed seat with a sigh. “Which one’s yours?” the Owl Man asked. Startling him. “The most beautiful little girl in this store,” Luis said proudly. The Owl Man scoffed good-naturedly. “Don’t all Dads think that?” “That’s my Jenny over there,” he pointed. Jenny, Luis thought with a slight smile. Remembering. He followed Owl Man’s line of vision. His dark eyes landing on a little girl with coal black hair and ice blue eyes. “You have a very pretty daughter, Mr….” “Mr. Stanley,” the Owl Man offered his hand. “Nice to meet you, Mr….” “Lopez-Fitzgerald,” Luis supplied with a smile. “DADDY!” Ali squealed excitedly. Launching herself in his arms. “Look what Mommy picked for me.” Mr. Stanley chuckled under his breath when Sheridan walked up to them. Arms piled high. “Sheridan,” Luis uttered in amazement. “We haven’t even been here 10 minutes.” “So,” Sheridan shrugged. Dumping some of the clothes in his lap. “What are you doing?” Luis asked in a fog of confusion. “You can’t take ALL those back there,” little “Miss Know It All” Jenny Stanley said with wide eyes. “Here, Dad,” she said. Throwing an armful at HER father. Luis and Owl Man wallowed in total embarrassment together while the sales clerks giggled at their predicament. Luis swore he even heard the word “whipped” bandied about. And he ducked his head when one brash sales clerk in particular winked at him.

“Daddy?” Ali called from the deep, dark dungeon of debt Luis imagined the dressing room to be. “Are you ready?” He grinned at the excitement clear in her sweet voice. “Ready as I’ll ever be, AliCat,” he answered back. Sheridan stepped out first. An enormous smile gracing her features. “I present to you…Princess Ali,” she said with a flourish. Ali pranced out. Dressed to the nines. “What do you think, Daddy?” she asked. Twirling around. Her blond hair swirling around her shoulders. From the tiny white Capris to the pale pink tank top…his daughter looked absolutely adorable if he said so himself. “Perfect, AliCat,” he gave her a thumbs up when he could put logical syllables together. “You look beautiful, Baby.” Ali bounced on her heels. “Thank you, Daddy,” she smiled. Sheridan herded her back into the dressing room, and Mr. Stanley turned to him with a knowing smile. “You better look out ten years down the road. You’re going to have to lock her in her room to keep the guys away. And it still won’t work.” “I don’t know about that,” Luis glanced at the man out of the corner of his eyes. “Being an officer of the law has its advantages,” he told him.

“That’s why you seem so familiar to me,” Owl Man exclaimed. “Oh my…I remember it now. All of it. It was all over the papers. You’re Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald. And you’re married to American royalty.” Luis bristled at his description of Sheridan. “She’s just an ordinary woman…well…extraordinary to me, but…” “Detective Lopez-Fitzgerald…I beg to differ,” Owl Man disagreed. “Not only is she exceedingly beautiful…she’s worth billions.” “My wife doesn’t care about money, Mr. Stanley. Only in that there is a considerable trust in our children’s names. That’s it. She left it behind her a long time ago.” “Still,” Owl Man continued. “The lifestyle is born and bred in her. Surely she misses it.” Does she, Luis wondered. Was she better-suited to a life such as the one she led before? “You’re a very lucky man, Detective Lopez-Fitzgerald,” Mr. Stanley added. “To get her back.” Which one, Luis wanted to ask. Obviously this man beside him knew an inordinate amount of information about him and his family. So he wondered…which ‘her’ was he talking about? Sheridan? Or Ali? “Nice meeting you, Detective,” he said in parting. Luis watched him wander to the front of the store with his wife and daughter. “Daddy!” Ali said. And Luis turned around to the lovely vision of his daughter. His precious baby girl. As she showed off her lavendar sundress, his eyes met with Sheridan’s across the way. He could swear he saw…love…shining plainly in her blue eyes.

In the end, they hit every suitable store in the entire mall. Plus a few more before they turned for home. It was evening by the time they were headed home. And Ali didn’t even last two minutes into the trip back. “Thank you,” Luis whispered. Overcome with emotion as he reached a hand back and stroked her blond hair back from her little face. “For what?” Sheridan asked quizzically. Confusion in her blue eyes. “For giving me the greatest gift…” he answered. “For giving me her.” Tears welled up in Sheridan’s blue eyes, and her voice was strangled as she gazed back at him. “I should be the one thanking you, Luis.” Luis smiled back at their sleeping daughter one last time and leaned forward in his seat once more. His heart swelling with love and renewed hope within his chest as he felt her thread her fingers through his. For the first time in a long time…she was reaching out to him. And whether he deserved it or not…it felt good. So damn good. He squeezed her hand gently and brought it to his lips. Kissing it tenderly. This time she didn’t pull away. This time she shot him a tearful smile. And he felt the cracks in his heart finally beginning to heal with that simple expression.

Mama met them at the door. With kisses and hugs. And Papa laughed softly at the bags and bags of clothes Miss Ali had acquired. Helping Sheridan carry them into the house. Cristian greeted them both with a sleepy, goofy smile. Just a few softly sang notes from Sheridan and he joined his sister in dreamland. Luis watched her lovingly tuck both their children snugly into their beds with a gentle smile on his lips. To think he had almost thrown THIS away. Without a second thought. What a fool he had been, he realized. What a fool. He shuffled off to their bedroom and undressed by the pale moonlight. Settling against the cool sheets with a sigh. Thinking of her. Curled up beside their daughter just down the hall. The ache to hold her in his arms again…just like every night for the last several weeks, over a month—was almost overwhelming. Hell. It WAS overwhelming. He clutched her pillow in his arms. Until sleep overtook him. Her whisper…like a dream. The warmth of her body next to his an unspoken wish for so long a reality. The gentle pressure of her lips on his cheek a sweet fantasy. “Not a day, Luis. I wouldn’t change a thing. Never. THIS is my life,” she whispered softly as she cuddled close in his arms. “Ali…Cristian…YOU. My life,” she murmured against his warm skin. And Luis smiled in his sleep.

Chapter 46

“So…Miss Ali,” Gwen smiled at the little girl curled up in Sheridan’s lap. “How are you liking school so far?” Ali’s blue eyes shone bright as she chattered about her teacher. Jake’s kindergarten teacher from last year. Jake plopped down in the grass in front of them and rolled his brown eyes. “Ali just lllooovvveeesss Ms. Quinlan ‘cause she’s the teacher’s pet. Teacher’s pet. Teacher’s pet,” he singsonged at the top of his lungs. “Jacob Henry Bennett,” Gwen hissed. Clamping a hand over her son’s loud mouth. “You stop that right this instant. Before your sister wakes up and starts screaming at the top of her well-endowed lungs.” Jake’s brown eyes were enormous with dread as he sneaked a glance at his pesky kid sisters. Conked out in the playpen under the tree’s shade. “Promise to be quieter?” Jake nodded his brown head vigorously. “Okay,” Gwen smiled at him. Releasing her hand from his mouth. Ali stuck her tongue out at him when she was sure her mommy and Gwen weren’t looking. Jake plucked a blade of grass from the ground and tickled it up and down the length of her legs. Making her squeal in laughter. “Ali,” Sheridan laughed. “You don’t want Gwen to get you, too, do you?” she whispered in her daughter’s ear. “Oh no, Mommy,” Ali said shook her head seriously. “I would never do that,” Gwen tugged on Ali’s ankle. “Besides…it’s all Jake’s fault anyway. I mean it, Buster. If you keep it up, you’ll have to change Sara’s next poopy diaper.” Jake grimaced. “Okay,” he whined. “I’m going to go see Dad and Uncle Luis,” he huffed.

“I’ve been exiled,” Jake announced dramatically. Hank’s brown eyes twinkled. “Watch ‘The Lion King’ at school again?” Jake nodded his brown head. Grumbling when his hair kept getting in his eyes. “Women,” he muttered. Repeating an oft-heard line of his dad’s. “Can’t live with them. Can’t live without them.” Hank grinned, and Luis laughed heartily. Cristian grinned as if to second the sentiment. Waving his hands in the air. “J.” “Cool,” Jake grinned. “He said my name. Did you hear that? Why couldn’t Mom have a boy? Boys are a lot more fun. Can I hold him, Uncle Luis?” Luis leaned forward and placed his son securely in Jake’s outstretched arms. “Girls are so sissy. Always crying. All Cristian does is smile.” Cristian’s brown eyes twinkled with happiness as he grabbed fistfuls of grass. “What kind of party is this, Dad? There’s nobody here.” “Not yet anyway,” Hank told him. “It’s Pilar’s birthday.” “Oh,” Jake said. “I forgot. How old is your mom anyway?” he asked. Looking at Luis with wide brown eyes. “She must be ancient. I mean she’s YOUR mom, right? Wow! She must be at least a hundred years old.” Luis chuckled, and Hank ruffled Jake’s brown mop roughly. “Jake! Little Buddy! Don’t say that in front of her, okay? Or your mom. Gwen’d kill ME if she heard him say that,” Hank released a huge breath of relief when he saw his wife deep in conversation. With Sheridan. And…Abby. “Luis…you didn’t tell me you invited the good doctor.” “I didn’t,” Luis shrugged. “Guess Sheridan did.”

“Lo-Fitz!” Abby said brightly. “Long time, no see,” she grinned. Pulling him into a bear hug when he stood up and offered his hand. Jake’s brown eyes nearly popped out of his head. “I thought you still had therapy, Luis.” “He does,” Abby answered for him. “But…I only get to see his fine ass two days a week now,” she said with an exaggerated pout. Jake snickered, and his cheeks glowed bright red. Luis’s lips twisted into an embarrassed smile. “It’s just me and Popeye most of the week. I don’t think I’ve had the pleasure,” she said. Hazel eyes smiling as Hank took her offered hand. “You’re cute,” she bubbled. “He’s taken,” Jake spoke up. “Oh really?” she asked with an amused smile. “Where’s his ole ball and chain?” she teased. “Right here,” Gwen laughed. Slipping an arm around Hank’s waist and kissing him soundly on the cheek. “Damn,” Abby swore. And Ali’s blue eyes sought out here mommy’s in surprise. Sheridan smiled. “Abby,” she said. Glancing at Ali. “Oh you sweet, innocent little thing,” Abby sighed. Rubbing an affectionate hand over Ali’s golden mane. “I’ve heard so much about you. You’re Daddy’s little AliCat, aren’t you?” “Yes,” Ali giggled when Abby tapped her button nose with her index finger. “Thank God you got your ass in gear, Lo-Fitz,” she whispered in Luis’s ear. “I would have had to nominate you as stupidest male in the Western Hemisphere. And you would have beat out some tough competition.” Luis hung his head in momentary shame. “Where IS everybody? I thought this was a party you invited me to?” she exclaimed. “It is,” Sheridan laughed. “Here come the first guests.” “O-H M-Y G-O-D,” Abby murmured when she laid eyes on…none other than…MJ.

“Uncle Hank,” Kay sighed in exasperation. “Do something.” Hank’s brown eyes were wild as his niece thrust the furious, screaming toddler at him. Miguel looked at him sympathetically but didn’t offer to end his torture. “Hey you,” Abby clapped her hands. Getting MJ’s attention, and Luis’s jaw dropped in amazement when MJ’s howling stopped almost instantaneously. Abby crossed her eyes and blew raspberries at him, and MJ cackled in delight. Kay dug around in her pocket for her wallet. “How much?” she asked hopefully. Dark eyes sparkling. “That’s the first time he’s stopped screaming all morning.” “MJ gives new meaning to the name ‘hellion’,” Hank hissed at Luis. Abby took MJ from Hank’s arms, and the twosome grinned at each other. “Ethan’s a lawyer,” Kay cracked. “He can have the adoption papers drawn up by this evening.” Abby smirked at her and bounced MJ on her hip. “WHO is she?” Kay plied Sheridan for answers. “Abby…Luis’s physical therapist.” “That’s Dr. Stone? She really is a miracle-worker. Abby Stone for president.” Sheridan laughed and knelt to take Cristian from Jake’s arms. “Hey Baby,” she whispered. Kissing his forehead. “Want to go to Daddy?” Cristian smiled at her and went willingly into Luis’s arms. Luis grasped Sheridan’s hand in his and gave it a gentle squeeze. Abby smiled at the look that passed between them. Almost there.

Sam and Grace arrived. Faith in tow. Kay smiled at the strawberry-curled child. “Aunt Kay!” she squealed as she hugged Kay’s legs. Kay looked down at the little girl and saw a perfect combination of her sister and Reese. “Hi Mom. Dad,” she waved. “How’s Jess?” “Fat,” Faith giggled. “Faith,” Grace chided with a slight smile. “But Grandma…she IS,” Faith insisted. “She’s bigger than Barney.” “Barney?” Kay mouthed over Faith’s head to her father. Sam grimaced. “But I think she’s even bigger than Shamu,” Faith divulged with an impish grin. Sam picked her up and she giggled, “Piggy back ride!” Kay’s dark eyes narrowed as she witnessed Ivy Crane watching her father from the patio with a wistful smile on her lips. What was it with Ivy Crane and her dad? She wasn’t blind. Years this had went on. Too many years. She sighed and turned back to her mom. Grace held a hand to her cheek. “Kay? Are you okay? You look tired.” Kay smiled at her mother’s concern. “I’m fine, Mom. Do you have a minute? I really need to talk to you about something.” “Of course,” Grace smiled back at her. “We’ll just go inside.”

Theresa clearly wore a look on her face that screamed ‘RESCUE ME!’ as MJ pulled gleefully at all the little pins that held her hair in place as they passed. Kay waved her off. Slipping inside with her mother. Eve Russell was in the kitchen. Smiling at something Chad was saying. Ethan sat beside Chad wearing his trademark ‘Duh’ expression. Emily was in his lap. Salivating over the piece of chocolate cake dangling just out of her reach like Bugs Bunny’s carrot. Beth’s brown eyes looked on with amusement, and just before disaster struck… “Ethan! Watch out!” But it was too late. Ethan groaned when Emily’s tiny hands dove into the gooey chocolate. Emily cackled delightedly as Beth wiped her sticky fingers off with a towel. “Yo, Ethan. Man…you got to be more careful around those Bennetts,” Chad warned. Grinning. “They always have something up their sleeves. Always.” Abby appeared in the doorway and sighed as she leaned back against the wall. “Where can I find one of my very own Bennetts? They sound like so much fun.” The smile on Eve’s face stretched even wider as she recognized Abby from the hospital. “Dr. Russell!” Abby exclaimed warmly. “I had no idea you were going to be here. What a nice surprise!”

Kay peeked out the blinds in Ali’s room and laughed when she saw Jake, Ali, and Faith engaged in a breathless game of tag. Sheridan shielded the sun from her eyes as she watched Luis in the distance with Gwen at her side. On the ground beside Hank. Sara and Cristian were apparently in the first passionate embrace of their young lives. “Mom,” Kay urged. “Come here. You have to see this,” she pointed to the two babies. “Aren’t they cute? Aww…they’re kissing. Okay,” she rolled her eyes. “I know they’re basically just slobbering all over each other, but still…” Grace smiled indulgently. “Kay,” she prompted. “What did you want to talk to me about?” Kay took a deep breath and squeezed her eyes shut. “Promise me you won’t say anything about this to anyone else yet. Not even Miguel. Okay?” “Kay…you can tell me anything. You know that. And I promise I won’t tell. Not if you don’t want me to.” Kay threw her arms around her mother impulsively. “Thanks, Mom.” Grace smiled. “Don’t you have something…” “Yeah, yeah. Sorry. This is just…I can’t believe it myself…especially right now…I mean MJ’s a heathen. Don’t get me wrong. I LOVE my son. With all my heart. But Mom…if I was anything at all like him when I was little…I think you deserve to be nominated for sainthood. You and Grandma Bennett both. Uncle Hank…” she trailed off. “Not to mention Jake. Mom? Do you think I’m crazy?” “Kay,” Grace laughed nervously. “Just spit it out. You’ll feel a lot better,” she encouraged. “Okay. Here goes. Mom…” “Yes,” Grace prodded. “I’m pregnant,” Kay said in a whoosh. Grace’s mouth hung open. “Mom,” Kay bit her lip. “Say something.” Grace opened her mouth to speak but was interrupted by a knock on the door. “Kay? Grace? Are you two in there? The guests of honor are here,” Sam said. Pushing the door open slightly. “Guess we should go,” Kay shrugged her shoulders. “Can’t keep the birthday girl waiting.”

Sam looped his arms around Grace’s waist, and Kay smiled at her parents. Still happy. After all these years. “Hurry up,” Ethan urged. “We have to get outside if we want to surprise them.” Ali, Jake, and Faith huddled together behind the old tree that supported Ali’s favorite spot to play: her treehouse. “I don’t know how that’s going to be possible,” Kay muttered under her breath when she recognized the distinct sound of her darling son throwing ANOTHER fit. Sara, never one to be outdone, was howling along with him. Scaring poor little Cristian to death. Fat tears welled in his sparkling brown eyes, and it was only Sheridan’s loving embrace and soothing whispers that kept him from making the ‘Happy Birthday’ song a trio. Gwen shook her head. “There goes the surprise element,” Hank grinned when Pilar and Martin appeared on the patio. Bright smiles. Laughter barely in check. “These things…they can’t be helped.” Luis walked slowly across the yard and kissed his mother’s cheek. “Happy Birthday, Mama.” “Nana!” Ali squealed happily. Everyone proceeded to deliver their own birthday wishes, and Hank breathed a sigh of relief when Jake’s wishes were given without nary a glitch. Until… “Wow, Mrs. Lopez-Fitzgerald. Your cake’s going to set the yard on fire! OW! Mom,” he whined at Gwen’s sound pinch on the inside of his arm. “What was that for?”

Chapter 47

“Watch this,” Jake hissed. Stabbing a piece of chocolate cake with his fork and bending it back. And back. And… “Blast off!” he snickered. Pumping his arm in the air triumphantly when it hit Emily smack dab in the face. “Bull’s Eye!” Ali’s mouth hung open in a stunned ‘O’. Faith giggled mischievously and picked up a slab of her own chocolate cake. Placed it on the end of her fork and got ready to pull. “Come on, Ali,” Jake urged. “It’s fun. Look. Emmy’s not even crying. She likes it.” Ali’s blue eyes sparkled under the pale glow of the lanterns strung from the trees. Jake WAS right. His little sister wasn’t upset at all. She actually looked like…she DID like it! “See? She’s smiling. She wants more. I can tell.” Faith’s piece of cake hit MJ in the back of the head, and she, Jake, and Ali ducked under the picnic table when he started screaming his head off. Breath held. But nothing happened! Jake shrugged his slim shoulders with an infectious grin. “MJ screams ALL the time,” he explained.

“Come on, Ali. Do it. Here. I’ll even put your piece of cake on for you,” he volunteered. Taking great pleasure in digging his fingers into the rich, gooey mess. Ali squeezed her blue eyes shut tight and slowly, slowly, slowly…She couldn’t do it. What would Mommy think? “Wimp,” Jake rolled his brown eyes. “I’ll do it FOR YOU,” he sighed heavily. Ali panicked as his hand covered hers. And before she could stop him… “Oh man! Oh man! Run, Ali! Run!” Ali grabbed her little chest in fright as Coach Russell turned around. His face invisible under the gook but for his gleaming white teeth. They looked like fangs! “AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!” Ali, Faith, and yes, even Jake, chorused.

Gwen dragged Jake by the ear to the opposite side of the yard. Banished him to the tree house, in fact. Faith cowered under her grandpa Sam’s arm. Sticking her tongue out and crossing her eyes at mean old Coach Russell every chance she got. When Grandma Grace wasn’t watching, of course. Ali didn’t dare raise her blue eyes from her lap as she twiddled her little thumbs in shame. Chewing on her pink lips. “AliCat,” Luis smiled. Tipping her chin up with his index finger. “Look at me,” he whispered. “No,” she pouted. “Ali…Coach Russell isn’t mad at you. See?” Luis told her. Nodding at T.C. across the table. T.C. saw them looking and waved. Giving Ali a special wink. “He’s really not mad, Daddy?” she asked innocently. “He’s not mad,” Luis assured her. Soft music filtered across the yard. And Luis bowed before Ali. Making her giggle. “May I have this dance, M’lady?”

The glass of sangria paused just inches from Sheridan’s lips as she watched her husband and daughter across the yard. Ali had her feet on top of Luis’s. Looking up at him adoringly as he ever so slowly swayed to the gentle notes of the music. Abby clinked her glass of sangria against Sheridan’s without warning. “Now THAT just warms the cockles of my heart. Damn, Sheridan. You’re so lucky, girl. He’s…he’s a mighty fine catch,” she said with twinkling hazel eyes. She wobbled on unsteady feet. Grabbing the thing, er…person, closest to her. Ethan looked to Sheridan for help, but she only laughed and ducked her head. “I want some brains to go with my brawn,” Abby giggled. “Sorry. Did I say that?”

Ethan righted her on her feet and quickly escaped to a quiet, secluded corner of the yard. Where all the lonely hearts were gathered. Beth smiled at his embarrassment. “I think I’m a little…” the colors of the lanterns blurred into one and her head swam “…tipsy,” Abby grinned. “What the hell. I’m drunk. There’s no brawn in that,” she said. Nodding in Ethan’s direction. “Excuse me. Ball and chain?” she asked Gwen with a goofy smile on her lips. “Do you mind if I steal your naughty little hubby for a dance?” Hank’s brown eyes were wide as saucers. “Be my guest. Have fun, Bennett,” Gwen laughed wickedly as she pushed him into Abby’s waiting arms. “You ARE your mother’s daughter,” Hank grumbled over his shoulder as Abby pulled him out to the ‘dance floor.’ “Little? Who’s calling who little?”

Sheridan sighed and leaned back against the tree as she watched Luis and Ali dance. Gwen smiled at her out of the corner of her eye. “You know you want to forgive him completely and just move on. What’s stopping you?” Sheridan pinned her with her blue gaze. “He broke his promise, Gwen. AND my heart,” she whispered softly. Gwen’s smile faltered somewhat as she slipped a consoling arm around Sheridan’s waist. “Men can be such bastards sometimes, can’t they?” Sheridan laughed at the inflection in her voice. “And clueless,” Gwen snickered as she watched Miguel grow pale at something Kay whispered in his ear. Next thing she knew…Miguel was out cold. It was kind of amusing watching Grace Bennett splash the remainder of sangria in his face. Pilar knelt next to her baby in concern while Martin hung back with a suspicious smile on his face and a sleepy Cristian in his arms. MJ threw HIMSELF on top of his father and started beating him in the face. Luckily his weapon of assault was a balloon doggie.

Faith used that opportunity to escape, and Gwen shook her head as she watched the little girl scramble up the tree house ladder. “Tell me those two aren’t related,” she muttered when she saw them put their heads together. The pleasant musical notes of her twin daughters crying their hearts out wafted through the air, and the smile on her face turned into a grimace. Then a smile when Ivy practically burnt rubber trying to get to her to hand off her charge. “I thought I had the ‘good’ one,” she said. Biting her lip as she thrust the fussy child at her. “Oh, Miss Emmy,” Sheridan held her nose. “I think it’s time to powder your nose.”

“Gwen,” Theresa babbled. “I don’t know what’s wrong with her. I think she’s afraid of me or something.” Chad smirked behind her. “I think it’s that THING in your hair,” he said seriously. Sheridan laughed when Theresa whirled around and slapped him playfully. Gwen juggled a twin in each arm. “Come here, Sweetie,” Sheridan held her arms out to Sara. “Don’t bother,” Kay said breezily. Sauntering up to them. “I’ll take her. Miguel’s going to be out for the count a while anyway. Congratulate me. The Bennett clan’s gaining another new member.” Gwen raised her brows in disbelief before following Kay into the house.

Ali giggled up at Luis. And her blue eyes looked just like her mother’s. “Will you marry me when I grow up, Daddy?” Luis grinned. Stopping his slow movements to the music and scooping his daughter up in his arms. “But AliCat,” he said. “What about Mommy?” Ali’s little nose scrunched up. She was in deep concentration. “Cristian’ll marry Mommy,” she announced. All smiles. “Sounds like you have everything figured out,” Luis said seriously. “Yep,” Ali blushed a becoming pink. “Except for one thing. What about Jake?” Luis teased. “And Cristian’s got his eye on Sara.” Ali mulled it over for a second and twined her arms more securely around his neck. “I guess I’ll marry Jake then. Or else he’ll have to marry Miss Piggy.” Luis almost choked on his own tongue. Thank goodness he was saved by the bell. Well…actually it was a spoon clanging on a glass. “Oh Daddy!” Ali exclaimed excitedly. “Ice cream!” Luis set her back on her feet with a smile. And Ali joined Jake and Faith at Eve’s side waiting for the cool treat.

“Hallmark moment! I’m telling you,” Abby said. A little too loudly. But then…who cared? “Want to dance, Gorgeous?” she teased. Luis rolled his eyes when she grabbed his hand anyway. “Just think of this as another one of our physical therapy sessions. I have to check your progress, you know.” Her hazel eyes danced with laughter at his exasperation. Luis had quite a job trying to keep her on her own feet. “How many glasses?” he quirked an eyebrow at her. “I don’t know,” she giggled. “I lost count a couple hours ago. That stuff is awesome!” she snorted. Slumping against him. Luis tried to grab her to keep her from falling but failed miserably.

Abby spit a blade of grass out of her mouth and shrugged her shoulders nonchalantly. “I meant to do that, Lo-Fitz.” “You started the party before the party, didn’t you?” Luis asked with an amused smile. “Technically…nope,” Abby answered. “This is the 2nd party I’ve been to today. Here. There’s your wife. Looking sexually frustrated as ever.” “ABBY!” “What?” Abby shrugged her shoulders. “It’s no secret you two have had problems, and a woman as pissed and hurt as Sheridan…you haven’t done IT in oh…give or take two months. Maybe even three. Look at her. She so wants to jump you. Be nice. Romance her, dammit. Ask her to dance. You might just get lucky tonight.” Luis turned a million shades of red as Abby staggered over to Sheridan and returned a moment later. Practically shoving his wife into his arms.

Everything faded to the background as he held her in his arms again and stared deeply into her blue eyes. “Sheridan…” “Luis…” They laughed nervously. “Abby’s…a doctor-patient relationship like this isn’t normal, is it?” Luis asked with a bashful smile. “I don’t think anything she does is normal, Luis,” Sheridan smiled. “Oh my god! She’s got Ethan cha-cha-ing.” She laughed uncontrollably. Burying her face in his chest. When she raised her head…his gaze was so intense she shivered and her mouth opened and shut. Desperately trying to say something. “Kay’s pregnant,” she finally succeeded in blurting. “Oh,” Luis nodded his head in understanding. A smile on his lips. “That explains Miguel’s fainting incident.”

“Luis,” Sheridan teased. “I think passing out cold sounds more manly than fainting.” “Manly?” Luis smirked. “You and Ali looked like you were having fun,” she said quietly as his arm slipped around her waist and his fingers traced tiny circles at the small of her back. “We ALWAYS have fun,” Luis grinned. “She’s my AliCat.” “What were you and Abby talking about?” she whispered later. As little by little, she relaxed in his embrace. Laying her head against his chest. “You,” he admitted. And she drew back to look at him in surprise. “Oh,” she stammered. He grinned. He loved it when she got flustered. He reached up a hand to tuck her golden hair behind her ear.

“I know, Sheridan.” “Know?” she asked dumbly. “Know what, Luis?” He trailed his knuckles down her jawline. “I know…that each night…you sneak into our bedroom. And crawl into bed beside me. You think I’m sleeping, but I’m not. I’m awake, Sheridan. Awake and alive every second I spend with you in my arms. Why do you wait until you think I’m asleep? Why do you leave in the morning?” Tears slowly pooled in her crystal eyes. “I..I don’t know, Luis. I…” “Shh,” he held a silencing finger to her lips. “This has gone on long enough,” he said. And they stood still. Facing each other. Unconscious of every eye at the party on them.

“Do you still love me, Sheridan?” “Luis!” “Do you?” “What kind of question is that?” she sputtered. “You hurt me, dammit. Of course. I love you, you bast---“ Luis tangled his hands in her golden hair and pulled her roughly to him. Kissing her fiercely. Passionately. Slowly. Gently. Lovingly. “I love you,” Sheridan whispered. Tears coursing down her cheeks. Luis brushed his lips over her damp cheeks before capturing her lips once more. And she held on for dear life. Ali smiled up at her nana. What a perfect birthday present, she thought as her nana held a shaky hand to her mouth and lay her head on her grandpa Martin’s shoulder. “WOOHOO!” Abby whooped. “It’s about damn time!”

Chapter 48

Ali’s blond mane spilled over Martin’s shoulder as he carried her to his and Pilar’s car. Cristian yawned sleepily against Pilar’s chest. The lanterns still cast a pale glow over the yard, but all the guests were long gone. Even Abby. Martin chuckled just thinking about her. She was outrageous! And everyone liked her. Except Ethan, who was never going to live this particular night down. Only Sheridan and Luis’s (hopeful) reconciliation could top his shining moments. Cha-cha-ing! Ha! Poor guy had NO rhythm at all, and he looked utterly ridiculous. But he laughed it off and was a good sport. Which was more than he could say for Hank. When Abby squeezed his ass—WITH NO SHAME—he went off. And Gwen laughed until she cried. To Martin’s way of thinking, his son’s best friend was more bothered by the fact that the incident did NOT stir up his wife’s jealousy than Abby’s brashness. He really LOVED it when Gwen volunteered to give Abby a much-needed ride home.

“Martin,” his wife interrupted his remembrances of the evening. “Could you get the door for me?” He secured Ali’s safety belt and hurried to the passenger side to open the back door for his wife. Running a hand over Cristian’s wispy dark hair fondly as she buckled him in his carseat. He raised a hand to cup her cheek. Then leaned in to kiss her lips gently. “Good birthday?” he asked with a smile. Her gaze traveled to her son’s silhouette in the front window. “Best,” she nodded her head. “I think they’re going to make it,” he said softly. Opening the passenger door for her. Her only response was a smile as he walked over to the other side of the car and let himself in. Ali and Cristian wore sweet smiles in their sleep. It WAS the best birthday.

Luis let the curtain drop after his parents’ car disappeared down the winding driveway. He couldn’t wipe the silly smile that’d been on his lips since the kiss off. It was there to stay. Especially when he saw her. Standing in the kitchen doorway with a matching smile on her face. He reached out a tentative hand. Trailing his knuckles across her cheek fleetingly before sliding his hands down her arms and taking her hands in his. “Luis…” “No,” he whispered. With a finger to her lips. “Don’t say anything. Yet. I have something I have to say to you first. Actually,” he hung his head. “A lot of things. Okay?” She nodded her head slowly.

“But first let me do this,” he said. Snaking his arms around her middle and pulling her to him. “May I?” he asked rather nervously. “Don’t want to get slapped again,” he teased. She laughed and leaned her forehead against his. “I’m sorry, Luis. You just…” “Forced the matter, didn’t I?” he grinned. “But I’m glad you did,” she smiled. Wrapping her arms around his neck and playing with the hair at the base of his neck. “I’ve missed you so much,” she sighed as he nuzzled his nose against hers. His hands slipped beneath the thin cotton of her tank top. His fingers tracing lazy patterns there. “I promise I won’t slap you if you kiss me again, Luis,” she teased. Blue eyes shining. “Luis,” she bit her lip nervously. “Shh,” he quieted her. Just before taking her lips with his.

They pulled apart, and he kissed her forehead. “Now,” he said. Cupping her face in the palms of his hands. “I owe you the biggest apology of my life. Words can’t express how sorry I am, Baby,” he told her. His voice cracking with emotion. “I hurt you. And the worst part about it…I meant to.” Tears welled up in her eyes, and her chin quivered. Making it even harder for him to go on. But he did. “I wanted to push you away. So I said mean, horrible things to you. Things I didn’t mean, Sheridan,” he whispered. “I didn’t mean a word. I never wanted a divorce. I don’t ever want to be separated from you,” he said shakily. “Just the thought is unbearable. Believe me when I say this…I’ll never let my pride get in the way of our love again. I NEED you in my life. By my side. Every step of the way.”

She kissed his palm and rubbed her cheek against his hand. Reaching out to draw him closer. As close as humanly possible. No space between them. “Never again,” he vowed as he fingers threaded through her hair, and she pressed her body against his. “Never again,” she whispered. As his lips trailed down her damp cheek to the corner of her mouth. The salt of her tears on his lips—his tongue—as he seared her with his kiss. Backing her up against the kitchen counter. She clutched at his shoulders as he lifted her up in his arms and set her down on top of the counter. Stepping between the circle of her legs and pulling her to him again.

She undid the buttons of his shirt with shaky hands. Finally giving up and peeling it from his shoulders. Buttons flying everywhere. Bouncing against the tile floor and rolling in various directions. “Sorry,” she said sheepishly. Blue eyes glittering at him as he caressed the back of her knee absently with a smile that slowly turned into a killer grin. “Really?” he teased. “Because I don’t think so,” he whispered hotly. Slipping his fingers under the thin straps of her shirt and pulling them down her shoulders. Placing open-mouthed kisses along her collar-bone. “Luis,” she said breathily. “I really AM sorry. No need to torture me,” she moaned as his mouth drove her crazy. “Luis,” she said. Giving his hair a gentle tug. “We are NOT going to do this here,” she blushed. Grateful when he stopped his heady assault on her senses to let her slide down from the counter. “Lead the way,” he said. Almost making her melt with the look in his dark eyes.

They stole little kisses the whole way down the hall to their bedroom. Once or twice getting lost in each other. Finally they reached their destination, and the door slammed shut when they fell back against it. “Luis,” she laughed against his lips. “A little more careful,” she murmured. “Goodness knows I don’t need a concussion, and I’d hate to have to explain to Eve how I got it.” “Oh yeah,” he grinned. “I’m sorry, Eve. It was an accident. I was too busy ripping my wife’s clothes off in a fit of passion to care that there was a door there. God, this feels good,” he groaned as he pinned her hands above her head and kissed his way down her neck. Making her shiver when she felt his hot breath on her neck. “I’m not complaining,” she gasped as he pressed himself more fully against her. “But Luis,” she teased. Pushing him away from her when he released her hands. “We have all night,” she told him as his knees hit the edge of the mattress. “Why don’t we slow things down a bit?” she suggested. Undoing the snap on her denim shorts and shimmying out of them.

“Damn, Sheridan,” he swore softly as his desire-filled brown eyes lingered on her newly revealed curves. “Now who’s torturing who? I’d like to know how the hell THIS is supposed to slow things down,” he groaned. When she pushed him and he fell back on the bed. “Shut up, Luis,” she muttered as she straddled his waist. Running her hands up and down his toned chest. Luis grabbed both of her hands in one of his and brought them to his lips. Kissing the cool gold of her wedding band that was a symbol of their love. A symbol that meant forever. His simple gesture brought fresh tears to her blue eyes. “I love you,” she whispered against his lips. Reminding him once again how much his stupid pride had almost cost him. She didn’t protest as he coaxed her lips apart in a tender but passionate kiss. Or when he pulled her into his arms in a fierce hug. His heart beating wildly. Reassuringly as he lay her down in their bed. And began making love to her. Promises and terms of endearment pouring forth from his lips. Banishing all her doubts as he whispered “I love you” over and over and over again.

Chapter 49

“Mmm. Luis,” Sheridan sighed blissfully. Stretching languidly against the pale sheets as the sun’s beams streamed in through the window. A smile lit up her entire face. She was happier than she’d been in months. “That feels so good. Luis. Luis? Luis!” she shrieked as she bolted upright in the bed. Flinging Miss Priss all the way to the far side of the room. The white ball of fur shrieked and spat at them in fury before beating a path out of the bedroom. Luis’s brown eyes sparkled with amusement. “I’m hurt,” he pretended to pout. “What a blow to the good ole ego. My wife mistook the family pet for me.” Sheridan glared at him. Her blue eyes bright with anger. “Why didn’t you say anything?” “I didn’t dare interrupt such a passionate moment,” Luis teased mercilessly. “You and Miss Priss were getting pretty hot and heavy there for a few seconds. The pain in the ass. Trying to steal my wife.”

A smile tugged at Sheridan’s lips despite herself. “Besides the fact that she’s furry, has four legs, and meows, there’s one really big factor standing in the way of our…relationship.” “Oh,” Luis said. All ears. Crossing his arms around his bare chest. She licked her lips with a groan. Dammit! She could barely form one coherent thought when he wore those black boxers. “What’s that?” She swallowed hard. “She’s a she,” she rolled her eyes. “Now I can’t speak for Miss Priss…obviously,” she smirked. “But I don’t…damn, Luis. Get your ass over here right now and kiss me,” she demanded. Luis sported a sexy grin as he moved slowly across the room toward their bed. “Luis,” she whined impatiently. “We’re making up for lost time here. And you’re wasting valuable seconds. Minutes. Hours that could be better spent. Your parents aren’t going to keep Ali and Cristian forever.”

Luis chuckled. Slowing his steps even more. “Luis,” she groaned. The sheet falling from her naked chest. Forgotten as she crawled on all fours to the foot of the bed. And attacked him! “Sheridan,” he laughed. “What’s gotten into you?” “Do you really have to ask that question, Luis?” she hissed into his ear. Making him shudder as her nails dug into the flesh of his back, and she pulled him down on top of her. “I haven’t went this long without sex since I was in a coma,” she deadpanned. “Ooo,” he said. With a semi-serious face. “That’s wrong. So wrong,” he said. Closing his eyes as she arched up against him. Sweet and sensual was all good. But there were ups to the kind of frenzied passion he felt sweeping through him as he kissed her deeply. Almost desperately.

The bedroom looked like the site of a natural disaster hours later as they lay curled in each other’s arms. In total contentment. Limbs entwined to the point it was hard to tell where he ended and she began. It was like they were one person. One being. His hand trailed up and down the slope of her back. Tickling the delicate skin. She threaded her fingers through his, and he brought their joined hands to his lips. Kissing her knuckles sweetly. “I love you. You know that, don’t you?” he murmured against the golden crown of her head. “You do?” she asked softly. “What a surprise.” He couldn’t see the smile on her lips, but he knew without a doubt it was there. “Yes. I do. You stubborn, wonderful, exciting…” She snorted in unlady-like laughter. “…exciting,” he repeated with a grin, “beautiful—amazingly beautiful inside AND out, generous, forgiving, loving mother of my children you.” “Children!” she gasped. Fleeing from his embrace. “Oh my god, Luis! The kids! Pilar and Martin! They should be here…” A car door slammed outside. “Any minute,” she finished in barely a whisper.

They scampered about the bedroom. Frantically repairing the damage wrought during their…reunion. Sheridan’s azure eyes were wide and dark with panic as they heard approaching footsteps. Footsteps that could only belong to… “AliCat!” Luis exclaimed when his daughter burst through their bedroom door unannounced. Throwing herself into his arms. “Daddy!” she said excitedly. “I missed you so much.” Sheridan kicked their discarded clothes from the previous night under the bed. Just before Martin peeked around the bedroom door. Cristian perched on his arm. Sunny smile already in place. “And why is that?” Luis teased. Grinning when Ali gave him spontaneous Eskimo kisses. “You were only gone for one night. One night, AliCat.” “One very LLLLLLOOOOOONNNNNNGGGGG night,” Ali exaggerated. “I missed you, too, Mommy,” she said sweetly. “Mommy,” she giggled. “You’re shirt’s on inside out!” “It’s backwards, too,” Martin told her helpfully. Chuckling when she blushed in extreme embarrassment. “Where’s Nana?” Luis asked his daughter. “In the kitchen, Daddy,” Ali answered. “She’s going to cook us all lunch.” “Oh my…the kitchen,” Sheridan blanched.

Pilar was bent at the waist in the kitchen. Picking up tiny buttons. One by one. Tiny buttons to Luis’s shirt! Her brow knit when she discovered button after button scattered across the entire area. “Mija,” she said warmly. Not noticing Sheridan’s state of utter mortification. “Good afternoon.” “Pilar…you don’t have to do that. Let me get that.” “Nonsense,” Pilar waved her off. She gasped when she moved to the other side of the counter and saw the broken shards of what used to be Luis’s favorite coffee mug. Among other things. “What happened here last night? This kitchen looks like you two…oh. OH! Sorry, Mija,” she ducked HER head in embarrassment. Unable to finish her thought. “I’m…I’m…here,” she said. Dropping the buttons in Sheridan’s palm. “I think I WILL let you finish up here. I’ll be in the living room with Martin and the children if you need me.” Sheridan released the huge breath of air she’d been holding in her lungs during the whole awkward encounter. “I’m going to kill you, Luis,” she growled with narrowed blue eyes when he smirked at her from the kitchen doorway.

Somehow they made it through lunch. With a minimum of embarrassing moments. Sheridan finally began to relax again. The warm feeling of belonging washing through her as they interacted. As a family. Not for the first time, she thought of how lucky she was. Life as Luis’s wife and mother of his children wasn’t always easy by any means. But she knew love. She felt it from all who surrounded her, and she wouldn’t change a thing. The journey was hard, but also the sweetest part. Sure…they’d gotten off track for a while. Nearly completely derailed. But she was ready to start all over again. And she cried tears of joy as Luis knelt on one knee and said the words. Words she had heard before. Promises she couldn’t wait to repeat as she agreed, once more, to become Luis’s wife.

Chapter 50

Blessed

Strings of a guitar were strummed, and beautiful Spanish melodies that they danced to on their first honeymoon in Spain filled the late summer air. Air that held just a hint of crisp coolness. Ali’s golden hair gleamed in the afternoon sun. Her cheeks pink. The red satin ribbon floating behind her as she waltzed up the makeshift aisle. Crimson rose petals drifting to the ground below. Proud friends and family snapping pictures and whispering amongst themselves how much her parents had fought and struggled to be together within the past year. The creamy lace of the dress’s billowing floor-length skirt revealing tiny cream slippers. By her side was Jake. Looking dapper…and utterly mortified…in his matching tux. His brown eyes rolling intermittently, and frequent mutterings of “Hurry up, Ali,” escaping his lips. “Jacob Bennett,” his grandmother hissed from her seat beside his grandmother. “Wipe that horrid scowl off your face right now, or I’ll…” Pilar thanked God she didn’t get a chance to finish her thought when Jonathan Hotchkiss clamped an unceremonious hand over his wife’s mouth. “Aren’t they cute?” Kay sniffled. “Damn pregnancy hormones,” she cursed under her breath. Miguel caught MJ by the arm just before he tore down the aisle after his cousins. Ready to pull the tempting ribbon that adorned Ali’s mane.

Hank whispered something in Luis’s ear, and Luis chuckled. Grinning broadly at the pair coming down the aisle toward them. Father Lonagin leaned over so that Chad might keep him informed of what was taking place, and he smiled at what the young man told him. Ali stood on tiptoe. Her pink lips offered in a sweet kiss to her daddy as she came to a stop in front of her. “I’m too old for this,” Jake grumbled. Sighing heavily as his dad pulled him to his side. Cristian bounced on his aunt Theresa’s knee. Perfectly content. Grace and Sam each held a twin, and by some miracle…Emily AND Sara sported happy smiles. Hank groaned when Abby stepped slowly down the aisle. The memory of her wandering hands and a certain ass-grabbing incident making him flush in embarrassment. He said a silent prayer of thanks she’d be standing on the other side of Father Lonagin. She caught his grimace and winked at him. Hazel eyes twinkling with mischief. Ivy laughed when she blew a kiss at Ethan. The woman was such a tease. Beth smiled and shook her head. Ethan was just TOO easily embarrassed. Hank’s grinned idiotically when his eyes met those of his wife, and Jonathan looked on with affection as his beautiful little girl gazed at her husband. The kid in a man’s body.

The notes of a familiar song played softly, and Luis’s soulful brown eyes teared up in memory. Their song. “Imagine.” The first time had been traditional. Wedding march, ceremony, reception, the whole nine yards. This time was all…them. And a gathering of their closest friends and family. His breath caught in his throat when he saw her. Her blue eyes shimmering with happy tears as she held his papa’s arm. Looking resplendent in her simple gown. Identical almost to her little daughter’s. “Mommy looks so beautiful,” Ali whispered in awe. Jake was inclined to agree with her. Gulping as Sheridan neared them. Eve smiled softly at the young woman she’d come to count as a friend over the years. Reaching for T.C.’s hand and giving it a gentle squeeze. “Who gives this woman?” Father Lonagin asked when Sheridan and Martin came to a stop before him. “I do,” Martin said softly. Kissing her cheek gently and patting it affectionately. “You look lovely, Lass,” he whispered. Sheridan’s face lit up with a brilliant smile that would stay the remainder of the ceremony.

The pair stood side by side before friends, family, and God. Promising to love each other. Forever and always. With a passion that was unforgettable. And when Luis slipped the ring on her finger, her hand trembled and crystal tears of happiness slipped down her smooth cheeks. His vows touching her heart, and all those around him. Father Lonagin knew these two…they had a love that could and would overcome anything. Ali smiled adoringly at her beloved parents as her mother uttered vows that rang so true. In a voice laden with emotion. “I love you, Luis,” she told him with a watery smile. “So much. I have been blessed. And I feel like I’ve found my way,” she whispered. Luis squeezed her hand gently. “I thank God for all I’ve been given at the end of every day.” Father Lonagin and the rest smiled at the simple words. Spoken with so much feeling.

“I have been blessed with so much more than I deserve,” she cried. Gwen’s throat grew tight with tears and a sob escaped her lips as Luis shook his head in disagreement. Kissing her fingertips and saying, “You deserve that and so much more.” Jake’s mouth hung open. Grownups! He’d never understand them. Girls in particular. As soon as his mom started crying, all the ladies in the audience started bawling. Theresa the loudest of all. But Kay was giving her a run for her money. “To be here with the ones that love me,” she smiled at her precious daughter and waved at her little son. “To love them so much it hurts. When I’m singing my kids to sleep. When I feel you holding me, I know…I have been blessed,” she finished tearfully. “To live my life with you by my side.” “Damn,” Abby boohooed noisily. “Can’t you just feel the love? Oh! I’m SO sorry, Father Lonagin. Please forgive me.” Father Lonagin smiled benevolently and continued the ceremony. “This is the good part, Buddy,” Hank teased. Gwen rolled her eyes at her husband good-naturedly. When Father Lonagin gave Luis the go-ahead to kiss his bride, Luis was more than happy—he was thrilled—to oblige. Giving his wife a passionate, loving, toe-curling kiss that had the guests whistling and clapping. Ali felt the need to join in the on the fun. Kissing Jake’s cheek sweetly. A moment forever captured on film. The blissful bride and groom lip-locked behind them. And the old oak tree beyond. A fresh set of initials carved into his worn bark. LLF LOVES SLF. FOREVER.

I get kissed by the sun
Each morning
Put my feet on a hardwood floor
I get to hear my children laughing
Down the hallway through the
Bedroom door
Sometimes I sit on my
Front porch swing
Just soaking up the day
I think to myself, I think to myself
This world is a beautiful place

I have been blessed
And I feel like I’ve found my way
I thank God for all I’ve been given
At the end of every day
I have been blessed
With so much more than I deserve
To be here with the ones
That love me
To love them so much it hurts
I have been blessed

Across a crowded room
I know you know what I’m thinking
By the way I look at you
And when we’re lying in the quiet
And no words have to be said
I think to myself, I think to myself
This love is a beautiful gift

Repeat Chorus

When I’m singing my kids to sleep
When I feel you holding me
I know

Repeat Chorus

Performed by Martina McBride

The End

Disclaimer: This story in is in no way meant to infringe upon the rights belonging to , NBC, or any entity thereof. All rights to Passions and any related content, including characters used, belong to "Outpost Farms Production Inc", James E. Reilly, and NBC.
This story is the property of the author. Copyright 2001. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without the written permission of the author.
Always© 2001 - All Rights Reserved.