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*School Daze*
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Chapter 11
“Argh!” Sheridan huffed in frustration. Throwing the red dress over her shoulder as she stomped to the front door. Flinging it open and nearly scaring Ethan and a gun-shy Gwen to death. “Sheridan,” Gwen said. Peering out from behind Ethan, “you’re not even dressed yet. I thought you said this dinner was at 6:00.” “It IS,” she grumbled. Stalking back down the hall to her bedroom. “And I have NOTHING to wear.” Gwen smacked Ethan on the arm when he rolled his eyes. Muttering “Women and clothes. What’s wrong with throwing on the first thing you see? I do it all the time.” Gwen smirked at him and gave his appearance the once-over for the third time that night. “I know you do, Darling,” she laughed. “What’s that supposed to mean?” Ethan yelled as Gwen disappeared down the hall. “Nothing!” she called. Smiling to herself.
“Sheridan,” she laughed as she took in the clothes strewn all over the bed, the floor. Practically every available inch of the place. “It looks like World War III in here. It’s just dinner. Just a gesture to let Pilar’s daughter know I don’t hold any grudges,” she said. Rubbing the faint bump on her head. “It’s not dinner with the President.” “I know,” Sheridan sighed. Plopping down on the bed and throwing an arm across her eyes. “Wait a minute,” Gwen smiled knowingly. “This has something to do with Pilar’s son. Luis. The sexy cop.” “Gwen!” Sheridan shrieked in disbelief. A smile playing at her lips. “What if Ethan heard you?” “So,” Gwen laughed. “I love Ethan, and I’m committed to him. But I’m not dead.” Sheridan collapsed in a fit of giggles against the mound of pillows and clothes on her bed. “Here,” Gwen said. Holding up a pale lavendar sundress. “This will knock Officer Lopez-Fitzgerald’s socks off.” “Thank you,” Sheridan smiled. Hugging her then running off to the bathroom to put the finishing touches on her make-up.
“I still don’t know what the big deal was,” Ethan said cluelessly as they pulled into Pilar’s driveway. “You look fine.” Sheridan ruffled Ethan’s hair affectionately and said, “It’s all thanks to your wonderful girlfriend here,” she said winking at Gwen. “If it were left up to you, who knows what I’d have looked like this evening.” “What do you mean if it were left to me? Aunt Sheridan? Is that good or bad?” Ethan asked dumbly as he helped Gwen then Sheridan out of the car. “You decide, Darling,” Gwen smiled. Taking his hand as they walked up the walkway. Sheridan leading the way. Sheridan looked back at Gwen. Blue eyes sparkling with barely contained laughter. “Are you ready Gwen? Just remember. Theresa is ACCIDENT-prone. But the girl couldn’t purposely hurt a fly.” As far as I can tell, Sheridan thought. But she wasn’t so sure it was Gwen Theresa was intent on making good with. She had the sneaking suspicion this whole dinner was ALL about Ethan.
She took a deep breath and started to ring the doorbell. But before she could, the door flew open. And there stood a very breathless, beyond giddy Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald. “Ms. Crane!” she gushed. “I’m so glad you could make it. Where’s Ethan?” she asked. Standing on tiptoe to look over Sheridan’s shoulder. “GWEN and Ethan are right behind me, Theresa,” she laughed. Stepping inside. Smiling at Pilar. “Pilar!” she said. Hugging her. “It’s so good to see you again. I’ve missed you so much.” Pilar’s brown eyes twinkled as the looked Sheridan over. Remembering the little girl she helped raise. “You’ve grown into a fine young woman,” she said with a smile. “Theresita,” she said. Noticing Theresa beaming at the confused young man. “Go help your brother in the kitchen.” The dreamy look on Theresa’s face fell. But she followed her mother’s instructions.
“Ms. Gwen,” Pilar said quietly. “I’m so sorry about the other night. My Theresita…let’s just say…” “She’s a klutz,” a masculine voice interrupted. “It was an accident. She didn’t mean anything by it.” Sheridan felt her heart beat accelerate, and she could swear it would beat right out of her chest as she turned around at the sound and met his deep brown eyes. Oh god, oh god, she thought. He’s even more gorgeous in uniform. “Luis,” Pilar said in surprise. Accepting Luis’s kiss on the cheek. “I thought you had to work.” “Things are real slow down at the station tonight,” Luis answered. “Sam let me have the night off. I didn’t know we were having guests for dinner,” he said. Giving Ethan a funny look. There goes that look again, Sheridan thought. What was up with that?
“I invited them, Luis,” Theresa singsonged. Gazing at Ethan with what could only be described as adoration. Fortunately for Theresa, Gwen missed that look. She was too busy smiling up at him herself. “Theresa invited us as an apology for the little ‘incident’ at the Lobster Shack, and I accepted,” Gwen said. “I thought it was very nice of her, and I didn’t want her to think I was some terrible witch,” Gwen laughed. Ethan smiled at them all. “That’s Gwen for you. So considerate of others’ feelings. One of the reasons I love her so much.” “Oh Ethan. You are one of the sweetest men alive. How did I ever get so lucky?”
Pilar shot Theresa a warning look, and Sheridan snuck a glance at the younger girl. Just in time to catch her rolling her brown eyes, and say, “You ARE the wicked witch, Gwen. You’re the only thing standing in the way of FATE. Ethan just thinks he loves you because he hasn’t had enough time to fall in love with me,” she finished. Mumbling under her breath. Sheridan’s blue eyes widened in disbelief. She didn’t just hear that, did she? She shook her head to clear her muddled brain and said, “Excuse me, Theresa. Did you just say something?” Theresa smiled at her sweetly. “No, Ms. Crane,” she giggled. “You must be hearing things. Did I tell you how much I LOVE your dress?” she asked. Changing the subject. Sheridan decided to let the subject drop for a little while.
“Dinner’s ready,” Kay said. Peeking around the kitchen door. Waving at Sheridan. Then walking back into the cozy room. “Who’s your wacko sister kidding anyway, Miguel? I thought this dinner was her idea. I guess she realized the only thing more dangerous than her and a lobster was her cooking, huh?” she smirked. Wiping her hands off on the apron she wore before pulling it over her head. “It’s been interesting, but sitting down at the dinner table with my French teacher isn’t my idea of fun. See you tomorrow. Tell Ms. Crane and your brother and mom I said goodbye,” she said. Slipping out the back door and disappearing down the street. Miguel was still smiling after her when his mother and their guests walked through the door.
“Hi Miguel,” Sheridan smiled. “Something smells wonderful.” “It’s the enchiladas,” Theresa bubbled. “I made them all by MYSELF,” she breezed. Luis quirked an eyebrow at her. Since when did Theresa’s cooking turn out edible? He shrugged his shoulders at his mother. Pulling out a chair for her. Then doing the same for Sheridan. His hand brushing against her arm as he did so. He breathed in sharply. Forgetting his intentions of staying away from her. Avoiding her because was one of the hated Cranes the moment that little jolt of electricity passed through again at her touch. Just like that night on the wharf. Just like that day in the Book Café. So she’s a Crane, he thought. Big deal, he told himself. Momentarily pushing all those other thoughts away as he gazed into her bright blue eyes. He wanted to hate her. But he couldn’t. He just couldn’t, he thought with a sigh as he gave up the inner battle for the time being and smiled back at her. It was just too hard.
Chapter 12
“Oh, Theresa,” Gwen praised, “those enchiladas were scrumptious. Pilar taught you well.” Miguel snickered at the blank look on Theresa’s face. Her brown eyes were wide with confusion. She had no idea what Gwen was talking about. She’d been too busy memorizing Ethan’s every feature. If Mama had anything to do with it, Miguel was certain this was the closest his sister would ever get to Ethan again. “Mama taught us ALL well,” Luis saved. Rising from his seat and taking everyone’s plates to the sink. The look on his face when Ms. Crane refused to give up her plate and said “Let me help you with that” was priceless. He watched the pair with interest. Sparks were definitely flying between his brother and Ms. Crane. Luis is done for, he thought with a smile. Watching as she got up from her seat and started helping him clear the table. He turned back around in his seat just in time to catch his mother glaring at his sister. When would Theresa ever learn?
Never, he realized as she bubbled on excitedly to Ethan. Totally leaving Gwen out of the conversation. Not bothering with any pretenses. If Ms. Hotchkiss was half as smart as she seemed to be, she’d help his mother see to it that Ethan stayed miles and miles away from his loopy sister. He loved her. But he couldn’t deny she had lost most of her marbles a long time ago. When she started keeping a shrine to the man seated next to her. Miguel studied Ethan curiously. What DID she see in the guy? Or Gwen for that matter? In fact, the more he thought about it…maybe Ethan Crane and his sister were PERFECT for each other. Ethan was more Forrest Gump than Albert Einstein. Miguel shook his head in disbelief when Ethan proudly told them he was a Harvard graduate. A lawyer. A small smile played at the corners of his mother’s lips, and he had trouble stifling his laughter. Thank God Theresa came up with one of her bright ideas again. Theresa floated outside. Head in the clouds. Insinuating herself in the middle of Gwen and Ethan when they took a seat on the swingset. Miguel groaned. He had had enough. He said his goodbyes and left for his home away from home. The Bennett house.
“Your sister likes my nephew, doesn’t she?” Sheridan asked with a laugh. Gazing at the strange trio outside as she rinsed the plate Luis handed her. “How’d you guess?” Luis smirked. “Yeah,” he sighed. “She has a crush on him. It’s obvious, isn’t it? Well…and forgive me for saying this…your nephew isn’t the sharpest tool in the shed.” Sheridan laughed out loud then. Her head bowed as she shook helplessly with laughter and gasped, “You aren’t the first person to make that observation. But I love him. He’s the closest thing I have to a brother.” Luis looked at her in slight confusion. “I thought Julian was your brother.” “He is,” Sheridan said. Staring at him with those blue eyes again. “But there’s such an age difference between us. Julian could be my father, for goodness’ sakes,” she smiled. “That and the fact that we have NOTHING in common kind of keeps us from getting really close, you know.” Luis nodded his head in agreement. As far as he could tell, she was right. Brother and sister shared nothing in common but a last name.
“There,” she said in satisfaction. Rinsing the last dish. “All done.” Luis grinned at her. The more time he spent with her, the more he liked her. “Not quite,” he whispered with an amused smile on his handsome face. His brown eyes twinkling. “What?” she asked. Her face growing hot. He was staring at her, and she could kick herself. She was blushing like a schoolgirl. “Do I have something on my face?” she asked nervously as he leaned in closer. And she could feel his breath in tiny puffs on her face. He gave her that cocky grin. Just like the one he gave her when they first met. “Luis,” she said breathlessly as he leaned in even closer, and her eyes fluttered shut. Sure he was going to kiss her. And boy did he want to. He stared at her soft lips. More tempted than he had ever been in his life. But…but he couldn’t, he thought drawing away at the last minute. He playfully scooped up some bubbles in his hand and wiped some on her cute little nose. Bursting into a fit of laughter when her blue eyes shot open and went as wide as saucers when she saw what he had done. “Now you do,” he teased. Ducking when he saw her blue eyes flash and her hands dip into the soapy water.
“Mijo!” Pilar exclaimed in astonishment. “What is going on here?” Theresa beamed at them knowingly. Skipping over to the oven to check on her mystery dessert. Sheridan hid her face in embarrassment and mumbled, “I’m sorry, Pilar. For being so childish.” Luis grabbed her by the hand. “It’s my fault, Mama. I was just having some fun with Sheridan and got a little carried away,” he said. Smiling at her. Pilar shook her head in amusement as she walked back outside to check on Gwen and Ethan. Sheridan got lost in Luis’s dark eyes. Totally forgetting Theresa was in the same room. Until she heard her shriek, “Luis! Ms. Crane! We have to get out of here. NOW! I think it’s going to…” But it was too late. “DIOS MIO!” Pilar cried. “THERESITA! What have you done now!”
Chapter 13
“Hi Ms. Crane,” Miguel said sheepishly. Sneaking a glance at her twinkling blue eyes. “How’d your dinner go last night?” he heard Kay whisper teasingly. “Oh, it went,” Ms. Crane laughed. “My evening was FAR from boring,” she smiled. Miguel cracked up at the smirk Kay sported. Mama’s kitchen looked like a disaster area when he walked into it last night. And he still couldn’t wipe the image of his chocolate splattered French teacher out of his mind. Kay had cackled gleefully over the phone as he described in painstaking detail the way Theresa had groveled at Ms. Crane’s feet. Luis had watched the whole scene in amusement His trademark lazy grin on his lips.
“Kay,” Simone asked in trepidation. “WHAT happened last night?” Kay’s dark eyes shone with mischief. “Why Simone! You ask that as if you think I had something to do with the explosion that rocked the Lopez-Fitzgerald house last night. Pas moi,” she said dramatically. “It was FATE that Theresa’s little plan to impress Ethan Crane backfired. I had NOTHING to do with that oozing, sticky mess. Scout’s honor,” she swore. Simone rolled her eyes when she caught a glimpse of Kay’s crossed fingers. “Ugh! Kay Bennett!” she huffed. “You’re impossible,” she muttered under her breath with a smile.
“Hi Kay,” Charity said sweetly. “Simone,” she smiled. A genuine smile came over Simone’s face as she said ‘hi’ back to Charity. And they started talking about last night’s homework assignment. “Pollyanna,” Kay grumbled as she watched Miguel’s eyes light up at the sight of her. Ugh, she thought in disgust. I’m getting a cavity. She groaned as the image of Charity all dolled up like Shirley Temple popped into her head. Her blond curls bounced as she sang…oh, she didn’t know what she was singing. One of those sappy songs the disgustingly cute moppet was always grinning her way through. She slouched farther in her desk. An unhappy scowl on her face. The girl had only been at Harmony High less than a week. And it was already Charity, Charity, Charity. She wished she’d go back to Candyland where she belonged.
Her eyes widened in horror when Reese proudly produced a handful of pitifully crumpled daisies from behind his back and presented them to her with an oblivious, goofy smile on his face. “For my love,” he gushed. Leaning down to plant another one of his sloppy kisses on her cheek. She barely ducked in time. Wishing she could disappear when Reese lost his balance and fell across her desk. “If you wanted a ‘real’ kiss, why didn’t you just say so?” Reese grinned. Closing his eyes and pooching his lips out. Oh god, she blushed in embarrassment as everyone around her laughed raucously. Would someone please buy him a clue? “Thank you God,” she whispered when Ms. Crane came to the rescue. Announcing it was time for class to start.
More than an hour later, she stuffed her books in her backpack and fled the room like it was a crime scene. Stomping her foot in anger. Was this God’s way of getting her back, she wondered when she ran smack-dab into Theresa, and ‘Harmony’s Klutz’ crashed to the floor. “Nobody move,” Theresa yelled. Bringing the entire student body to a halt. “Nobody move!” she shrieked. Frantically snatching at the literally millions of pictures of Ethan Crane that went flying from her binder. “Oh my goodness Whit!” she said. Her voice rising in panic. “I can’t find picture number 485! It’s gone! Whitney! You have to help me find it. Kay Bennett,” she shook, “this is ALL your fault.”
This is SO not my day, Kay thought as Theresa pulled her down to her knees. Forcing her to join her and Whitney. Looking like blithering idiots searching for ONE missing picture of Ethan Crane. “You really are loony toons, you know that?” she grumbled at Theresa as Jessica passed by her. Smirking. “Huh?” Theresa asked dazedly. Peeking behind the trash can. “The laughing stock of Harmony High. The Queen of Cluelessness. You know what? Why don’t you and Reese get married? You’re perfect for each other…” “I found it!” Theresa squealed. Clutching the picture to her chest like it was Spanish treasure. “Oh Ethan,” she gushed. Planting a big one on the glossy photograph. “I knew FATE wouldn’t let me down,” she sighed dreamily. Floating down the hall to her next class. Whitney racing after her. “Yeah, she’s CRAZY,” Kay said to the petite red-headed teacher watching them curiously. “She should come with a warning tattooed on her forehead. BEWARE!”
Chapter 14
“Argh!” Kay groaned. Sprawling across her twin bed and dropping her French textbook to the floor. “I’m so sick of studying!” “It’s not that bad, Kay,” Simone said absentmindedly. Munching on an apple. “At least it’s not on Friday.” “Yeah,” Kay agreed. “I can’t wait to see Miguel out there on the field,” she said with a devilish twinkle in her eyes. “In those tight little pants. Doesn’t he…” “I don’t hear you,” Simone chanted. Her hands over her ears. Giggling when Kay pounced on Jessica’s bed and tried forcibly removing her hands. “Admit it, Simone. Come on. You know you want to. Don’t be embarrassed. You….. are….. not….. alone,” Kay said slowly. “No,” she laughed. “You’re the insane one, Kay Bennett,” she gasped. Backing away from her. “Kay…Kay…Kay! Stop it,” Simone squealed as Kay advanced on her with a determined look on her face.
“You can’t make me! No! No!” she shrieked as Kay grabbed Jessica’s pillow and held it up threateningly. “Say it,” Kay warned. Simone shook her head defiantly. Grinning broadly. Kay threw the pillow over her shoulder and lunged at Simone. And they landed in a heap on Kay’s bed. Eyes widening comically as the bed creaked dangerously beneath them. “Whew,” Kay said wiping her brow. “That was clooooooooooooooooosssssssssssssssssssseeeeeeeeeeeeee!” The bed gave way and crashed to the floor. “Kay!” they heard Mrs. Bennett call in a concerned voice. “Is everything alright?” “Yeah, Mom,” Kay yelled. “I was just helping Simone. She’s thinking about trying out for the marching band.” Simone’s entire body quaked with laughter when Mrs. Bennett answered, “Oh, that’s nice, honey. Keep up the good work.”
“Come on, Simone,” Kay said. Rising to her feet and holding out a helping hand. Let’s get out of here before the toxic fumes from my mother’s kitchen go to our head.” Simone giggled and took her hand. “What about the bed, Kay?” she asked. Kay waved her off. “It’ll be here when we get back. Simone,” she said. “Let’s go. I’m in the mood for ice cream.” Simone’s eyes lit up at the mention of the treat, and she raced Kay for the door. Nearly knocking Jessica down at the head of the stairs. Kay stuck her tongue out at her sister’s questioning look and jabbed Simone in the ribs when she caught up to her. “I give Tilly Tattle five seconds. We better get out of here. Quick,” she hissed. Slamming the front door on Jessica’s “Mom!”
“I can’t believe we ran all the way here,” Simone whined. Plopping down beside Kay with a sigh. “Kay. Kay?” she repeated. “What are you looking at?” she pouted. Licking at the dripping mess in her hands. “Don’t look now,” Kay said in a whisper, “but Ms. Crane and Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald are giving flirty teens like us a bad name.” “What?” Simone asked with interest. “Where?” She craned her neck in the direction Kay indicated. Yelping when Kay pinched her on the arm. “I told you not to look now. Oh god,” she groaned. “She saw us. Thanks Simone. Now she’s coming over here to grill us about our reasons for not being at home studying like we should,” Kay said through clenched teeth.
“Hi girls,” Sheridan said cheerfully. Sneaking a glance back at Luis. Kay followed her line of sight. Laughing at the look on Luis’s face. These two had it bad. Very bad. She didn’t know why they didn’t just admit it and go for it. “You know, Ms. Crane,” she said in a teasing voice. “I think Luis kinda likes you.” A brilliant smile lit up the older woman’s face as she looked over at Luis uncertainly, and he smiled back at her. “I…I’m not really sure,” she said softly. “Maybe he’s just a real nice guy. I’m sure he doesn’t feel the same way…Oh, I can’t believe I said that,” she said sheepishly. Cute, Kay thought. She’s blushing. “Aha! I knew it. You DO like Miguel’s brother.”
“Why don’t you just ask him out?” Simone asked curiously. Yeah, Sheridan, her brain screamed. Come on. Do it. You know you want to. “Just do it,” Kay advised with a smile. A happy French teacher could only help her. Besides…they DID make a cute couple. Sheridan watched Luis with a wistful expression on her face. Why not, she thought to herself. What could it hurt? They’d been tap-dancing around each other for weeks now. “Okay,” she breathed. A nervous smile on her face as she rose to her feet. Okay, Sheridan. You can do this. Just breathe. In. Out. Calm down. You’ve asked lots of guys out before. Luis is no different. Oh yeah, the annoying voice in her head jeered. If you believe that, Ethan’s going to be President someday. She couldn’t help the slight laugh that escaped her lips at that one. Her feet felt like lead as she walked slowly over to where Luis stood. She took a deep breath. Willing her heart to stop hammering in her chest and said, “Luis?”
Chapter 15
“Luis?” Sheridan breathed. Barely above a whisper. “Yes, Sheridan,” Luis smiled. Reaching forward with his hand
and gently raising her chin. So he could look into her blue eyes. “Luis,” Sheridan repeated. Wringing her hands nervously. “I was wondering…I was…Would you…Nevermind,” she rushed. Turning to go. Gasping in surprise when he stopped her with a hand on her arm. “Just spit it out, Sheridan,” he laughed. “Come on. It can’t be that bad,” he said. His dark eyes smiling at her. Sheridan flashed him a nervous smile. She looked down at his hand where it rested on her bare arm and chewed on her bottom lip.
Oh Luis. If you only knew the thoughts running through my head right now. If he didn’t move his hand, she was going to grab him and kiss the living daylights out of him. Luis followed her gaze. Embarrassed when he realized he hadn’t let go of her yet. “Sorry,” he said quietly. Keeping his hands to himself. Damn, Sheridan thought. Shutting her eyes. Her arm was STILL tingling from his touch. “Sheridan? Sheridan? Are you okay?” Luis asked in concern. And Sheridan’s eyes shot open when she felt him tuck a strand back behind her ear. “I was wondering if you’d like to…” “MS. CRANE! LOOK OUT!”
It happened so fast, they didn’t have time to think. And just like that Sheridan found herself staring down into Luis’s dark eyes. Breathless. Speechless. “All you had to do is ask,” Luis chuckled. Running his hands up and down her arms. “I didn’t take you for the type that threw herself at men, Sheridan,” he teased. “I’m not,” she huffed. Finally finding her voice. “Somebody screamed, and I…I never meant to fall on top of you, Luis,” she said. Her cheeks burning hot.
“Ms. Crane! Are you alright? I am SO sorry. I don’t know what happened,” Theresa babbled. Nearly falling on top of Sheridan trying to pull her to her feet. “Theresa,” Luis groaned. His eyes taking in the skates on her feet. “Should I even ask?” he muttered under his breath. Climbing to his feet and reaching out a steadying hand for his sister. “It’s a long…whoa!” she squealed. Her legs starting to fly out from under her again. “Long story,” she finished. Grabbing onto Luis for support. Sheridan hid her smile as Luis rolled his eyes and said, “Theresa. Get those things off before you kill somebody.”
“Ain’t that the truth,” Kay smirked. “Kay,” Simone scolded. Smiling despite herself. “Come on,” she said. Tugging Kay by the arm. “We need to get back to your house. And studying,” she sighed. “Excuses, excuses. You just want to be out of harm’s way when Theresa gets rolling again. Can’t say I blame you,” Kay laughed. Throwing the rest of her sundae in the trash. “Bye Ms. Crane,” they waved. Passing Sheridan and Luis. And Theresa. “Bye Ms. Airhead America,” Kay mumbled under her breath as Theresa smiled at her cluelessly. Tottering on her feet.
"I didn't interrupt anything, did I?" Theresa asked. "As a matter of fact..." Luis began. "No. No, you didn't," Sheridan answered. Chicken! You might as well be walking around with one of those ridiculous chicken suits on, girl. Was that disappointment in Luis's dark eyes? She didn't know. But her heart leapt at the mere possibility. "I guess not," Luis said softly. Giving her a funny look. And she had to bite the inside of her cheek to keep from taking it all back and making a fool of herself right then and there.
She was saved with the arrival of Jenn and Lisa. Two girls from the cheer squad. "Oh my goodness! Ms. Crane!" Jenn said. In a panic-filled voice. "We've been looking for you everywhere." "It's an emergency," Lisa cried. "This lunatic came flying out of nowhere. Shrieking like a banshee on skates. And Amy...it was so awful, Ms. Crane. Amy had to jump into the bushes to get out of the way. She sprained her ankle, Ms. Crane," Jenn whined. "We can't do the pyramid without her. There's no one else light enough."
"You just have to help us," Lisa begged. "Please. We need someone that knows all the cheers, too. There isn't time for her to learn them all by Friday." Theresa listened. The smile on her face growing by the minute. Visions of wowing Ethan dancing in her head. She was so sure he'd be proud. "I know the PERFECT person to help you," she squealed excitedly. "Who?" Sheridan, Lisa, and Jenn said in unison. "ME! Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald at your service. I know ALL the cheers. Plus, I'm very light on my feet," she bubbled. Letting go of Luis. And in the process falling flat on her behind. "Ouch!"
Chapter 16
“Oh, Whit! Isn’t this exciting?” Theresa squealed. Chattering on without giving Whitney a chance to answer. “Oh my goodness! I think I see Mr. and Mrs. Crane!” she gushed. Bouncing up and down. “Theresa. Honey. Calm down. It’s no big deal.” “No big deal. No big deal,” Theresa said enthusiastically. “The Cranes have NEVER came to a Harmony High football game. It is SO such a big deal, Whit. They came to watch me. I know it. Isn’t that wonderful, Whitney?” Theresa asked with stars in her eyes. Whitney counted to ten before she opened her mouth. Sometimes her best friend was just TOO much. “Theresa. What makes you think they came to watch you? They don’t even know you. They probably came to support Ms. Crane. Julian Crane is her brother, after all.” “Of course,” she babbled. “Ms. Crane told them all about me. And Mama works at the Mansion. Face it, Whit. They came to see me. Where’s Ethan? I was sure he’d come to cheer me on,” she said. Pushing Whitney aside to scan the rapidly growing crowd for the young Crane heir. “You don’t think he got hurt, do you Whitney?” she asked in a panicked voice when he was nowhere to be found. “There’s Ms. Crane. I HAVE to find out if he’s okay,” she said. Whitney had to laugh at the ‘deer in the headlights’ look Ms. Crane got when she spied Theresa coming her way.
“Is she always that…hyper?” a male voice asked beside her. Whitney turned her head slowly and a smile blossomed on her face before she could stop it when she looked into Chad’s amused eyes. “Yeah,” she laughed. Chad chuckled. Watching Theresa talking animatedly with Ms. Crane. “Man. She’s like one of those wind-up toys.” Whitney just smiled. Wind-up toys were fun at first. But sooner or later, you wanted to scream for relief. Rip the batteries out. Theresa didn’t have batteries. Only an over-active imagination that NEVER quit. Besides…she loved the girl. She was wacky. A dreamer. Her best friend. “Hi Chad!” Theresa bubbled. “Ms. Crane said he’s coming. He might be late. Because he has to pick up Gwitch from the airport,” she finished. Mumbling under her breath. “What did you just say?” Chad asked. Not sure if he had heard her right. Gwitch? What kind of a name was that? “He has to pick Gwen up from the airport,” Theresa replied sweetly. “Oh,” Chad laughed. “For a minute there…I thought you said…,” he paused. He HAD to be wrong. Just those long hours you’ve put in this week for Coach Russell getting the best of you, Man. Now you’re hearing things. “Nevermind, Theresa. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. Sorry ‘bout that. Listen. Have to cut out now. See you fine ladies later,” he said. Winking at Whitney. “Whitney,” Theresa teased. “Looks like somebody’s got an admirer.” “Oh, shut up,” Whitney muttered. “Theresa. You better go. Lisa and Jenn don’t look too happy.” Theresa threw her arms around Whitney’s neck. “Wish me luck.” “Luck!” Whitney called with a smile as Theresa bounded off to join the rest of the squad. You’re definitely going to need it.
Whitney smiled and waved at her mother and Mr. and Mrs. Bennett. She was not going to sit by her mother. How embarrassing would that be? She sighed in relief when she spotted Simone. Then groaned inwardly upon seeing Kay. The girl never let up on the sarcasm. And she certainly wasn’t Theresa’s biggest fan. Although…she had to admit…Kay had her points. Kay looked at her suspiciously as she ascended the steps toward them. Great, she thought to herself. The Theresa-bashing police. Oh well. She was sure she wouldn’t give Theresa much thought tonight. She’d be much too busy staring at Miguel’s…”Kay,” Simone giggled. “Look. There comes the band. I think I see Reese.” Kay burst out laughing when she saw Reese trip under the weight of the ridiculous tuba he carried. Toppling some of his fellow band members like dominoes. “I’m telling you, Simone,” she gasped. “Him and Theresa are perfect for each other. Absolutely perfect.” Whitney glared at her and turned her head. Hiding her smile. Kay just rolled her eyes and whispered in Simone’s ear. “Why did the Ice Princess have to sit by us?” Simone opened her mouth to answer. But stopped when they heard the announcer ask everyone to stand up for the National Anthem.
Sheridan sang softly to the music. Her hand over her heart. A smile on her face. It felt good to be here. For the first time…Harmony seemed like home. The music ended, and she jumped when she heard a familiar voice say, “You have a beautiful voice.” Among your many attributes, Luis thought to himself as he gave the woman before him an appreciative look. Sheridan blushed. Looking down rather shyly. Cursing his effect on her. Sheridan Crane. You are anything BUT demure. Look at him. L-O-O-K at him. The man’s devastatingly handsome and drop dead sexy. But he isn’t going to bite. She laughed softly. Raising her blue eyes to meet his gaze. “That’s better,” Luis teased. His dark eyes shining. “Do you mind if I sit by you?” he asked. Taking a seat without waiting for her answer. “No,” she laughed. “Go ahead. Be my guest.” “Something’s been bothering me since our little conversation a couple of days ago,” Luis said. Looking straight ahead. “I got the sneaking suspicion you were trying to ask me something. What were you trying to ask me, Sheridan?” he said point-blank. Staring into her eyes once more. “What makes you think I was trying to ask you something, Luis?” Sheridan balked. Chewing on her bottom lip nervously. Luis just grinned at her. “I think,” he said. Picking up her hand and tracing the lines of her palm. Delighting in the way she shivered when he touched her. “I think you would have asked me out if it weren’t for Theresa’s impeccable timing. So…am I right?” he asked. “You sure put a girl on the spot, don’t you Luis?” Sheridan whispered in embarrassment. And the only word Luis could think of to describe her at that moment was adorable. The woman was adorable. “Let me save you the trouble. Yes, Luis,” he said in an imitation of her voice that had her giggling helplessly. “I want to go out with you. Tomorrow night sounds fabulous. Give me a call,” he finished with a grin. “What do you say, Sheridan?” “Guess I’ll see you tomorrow,” she smiled.
“Would you look at that?” Julian huffed in disgust. “My sister and Officer Low-Life Fitzgerald. Honestly. I knew Sheridan had horrible taste in men. But this is preposterous.” “Shut up, Julian,” Ivy hissed. “They make a cute couple,” she smiled when she caught sight of Sam. Looking handsome as ever. “I’m hungry,” she said. “I think I’ll go get something to eat. Do you want anything?” she asked as an afterthought. Already walking up the steps toward the concession stand. In Sam’s direction. “I didn’t want anything anyway,” Julian grumbled. Glancing around at his surroundings snootily. “What a dump,” he muttered. “But…maybe it’s not so bad, after all,” he grinned. Thank you, he thought to himself. There is a God. He picked up Ivy’s mini-binoculars and zoomed in for a closer look at the cheerleaders. “Delectable. Simply delectable,” he smiled. Licking his lips. He focused them in on the delicious young dish at the top. Something about her dark hair and eyes seemed familiar. Oh god, he thought as she waved frantically from the top of the rather high pyramid. It looked like she was saying…he could swear she was calling out Ethan’s name. He jerked the binoculars back from his face and blinked. Certain he was seeing things. Good God in Heaven, he thought. Cringing as the girl wobbled. The whole event seemed to happen in slow-motion as the girls underneath the exuberant young brunette lost the battle. He covered his eyes. Unable to look. And screamed like a girl.
Chapter 17
Sheridan took a deep breath and raised her hand. Ready to knock. Wouldn’t Theresa be surprised, she thought with a smile. Glancing behind her at Ethan shuffling back and forth on his feet nervously. A bouquet of yellow roses in his hands. “I still don’t understand why Gwen couldn’t come,” Ethan grumbled. “THIS was all her idea, after all.” Sheridan knew why. Gwen was no dummy. It was painfully clear to her and everyone else—EXCEPT ETHAN—that Theresa was absolutely bonkers over Ethan. What better way to cheer her up after last night than have her crush deliver her a beautiful bouquet of flowers, she had told Sheridan. “Ethan,” she warned. Rapping on the door. Sometimes her nephew was so childlike she had to wonder…
“Sheridan,” Luis grinned. “A few hours early for our date tonight, aren’t you?” he teased. His brown eyes sparkling with amusement. She laughed softly. Pulling Ethan forward by the arm. “WE’RE here to visit Theresa. Wish her a speedy recovery.” “Oh,” Luis said. The smile on his face diminishing somewhat when he laid eyes on Ethan. “Come in,” he said. Stepping back to let them pass. “Hi Kay!” Sheridan said brightly. Spotting the younger girl on the sofa. Right next to Miguel. “Miguel,” she smiled. Kay’s eyes widened when she saw Ethan behind Sheridan. “Kay,” Luis said. “Why don’t you go tell Theresa she has visitors.” “Um…okay,” Kay replied. Leaving them.
Kay knocked softly on Theresa’s bedroom door. “Who is it?” Theresa called weakly. Kay rolled her eyes. Theresita was milking this broken arm thing for all it was worth. She was sure Miguel and Luis would want to kill her before the six weeks were over. She pushed the door open without answering. Taking great pleasure in Theresa’s high-pitched scream of surprise and useless efforts to hide her face with her pillow. Biting her lip to the point of pain to keep from laughing at the vision in front of her. More like a nightmare. Theresa just could not live without her make-up. Especially that purple eyeshadow, Kay thought. Shuddering. She was way scarier than ANY Halloween mask--half her face was covered with zigzags of make-up and half wasn't.
“Oh, Kay,” Theresa said. Flapping her cast-covered right arm in the air awkwardly. “Thank goodness it’s ONLY you,” she sighed in relief. Well, I love you, too, Barbie, Kay thought as an idea began to slowly to take form. “Theresa,” she said. Voice dripping with false sweetness. “Whitney’s here to see you.” Theresa thanked her and waved her out of the room. “Good,” she said. Looking down at the Power Puff girls pj’s and fuzzy hot pink slippers on her feet. “I wouldn’t want anyone else to see me like this,” she whispered. Easing herself back against the soft pillows on her bed. Arranging her face into one of her best ‘poor, poor pitiful me’ expressions. She went with version number 25 for this particular visit. Whit had already seen all her best stuff.
“She’s waiting anxiously for you guys,” Kay smirked. Luis cast her a suspicious look. She was too much like her uncle Hank for her own good. No one could miss the devilish glint in her eyes. Unless they were dumb as dirt, he thought with a chuckle as Sheridan pushed Ethan forward with a few carefully chosen words of encouragement. Arching a slender brow at Kay and Miguel. Kay grinned back at Sheridan. But Miguel couldn’t meet her eyes. They were up to something. He was sure of it.
Ethan trudged slowly down the hall to Theresa’s bedroom. The yellow roses clutched in his hands. He raised his hand to knock on the slightly ajar door but paused when a breathy voice said, “Come on in, Whit. The door’s open.” What?!?! Whit? Who was Whit? The door creaked as he pushed it open and stepped inside. “Whit,” Theresa huffed. “What’s taking you so long? Are you going to stand outside my door all day?” Theresa said. Throwing her legs over the side of her bed and grabbing her stuffed teddy bear E.J. off the floor. He must have fallen off the bed last night. It wasn’t easy holding on to things with one arm, she thought. She put him back on top of her dresser. Right next to her collection of Fairy Tale barbies. Making a mental note to look for Cinderella next time she and Whitney went to the mall. “Whitney,” she whined. Whirling around. And coming face to face with none other than Ethan Crane. This cannot be happening, she thought. Before her eyes rolled back in her head, and she hit the floor with a thud.
Chapter 18
“Thank you, Eve,” Luis said. Showing Eve to the door. “It’s wonderful of you to do this.” “No problem, Luis,” Eve smiled. “Just tell Theresa to take it easy. Oh…and Sheridan,” she laughed. “Ethan will be okay, too.” Sheridan bit her lip to keep from smiling. She still couldn’t believe they’d found both Ethan and Theresa out cold on Theresa’s bedroom floor. Although…she could imagine why Ethan might have been scared out of his few wits. Now they both sported matching bumps on the head. Maybe Theresa WAS on to something. Maybe…just maybe…it was FATE. Not that she’d ever admit it, though. She needed to have a little talk with Gwen. God only knew the reason why she loved Ethan so much. It certainly wasn’t his brain power. She, on the other hand, was stuck with him. He was family. A complete dufus. But a lovable one.
Luis shut the door with a sigh. Leaning back against it and smiling at her. She returned the smile. Her blue eyes twinkling with amusement. Who said Harmony was boring? Theresa certainly livened things up a bit with all her spills and falls. “No offense, Ms. Crane,” Kay grumbled. Carrying Theresa’s lunch tray toward the kitchen. “But Dim Bulb and The Mental Case are made for each other.” Sheridan and Luis burst into helpless laughter. “Luis,” Sheridan gasped breathlessly. “I think maybe I should get out of here before disaster strikes again.” Luis grinned at her and opened the front door with a flourish. “What do you say we ditch this place, m’lovely?” Sheridan flashed a brilliant smile at him as she swept by. “Best idea I’ve heard all day. Kay and Miguel can help Whitney nurse Theresa and Ethan back to health. I’ll even give them extra-credit points on their next exam. They deserve it,” she laughed. “Hey!” Kay shouted after them. “You do know you’re putting our lives in danger, don’t you?” she yelled. Crossing her arms across her chest.
“Whew!” Sheridan whistled. Wiping her hand across her brow. “We made it. Where to, Officer? I take it this is an early beginning to our date.” Luis grinned at her. “The Harmony Youth Center. I have a few things to check on first. Then, Ms. Crane, I’ll show you a night on the town you’ll never forget,” he said. Gazing into her eyes as he placed a kiss to her hand. Neither moved for several moments. Just staring at one another. “Sheridan,” Luis teased. “Take a picture. It’ll last longer.” Sheridan blushed in embarrassment and turned the key in the ignition. You’ll pay for that, Lopez-Fitzgerald. I just haven’t figured out how yet, she thought as she caught him watching her with that knee-knocking smile of his out of the corner of her eyes.
“Luis, Buddy,” a rather vertically challenged man with brown hair said. “What are you doing here? I thought you had a hot date tonight,” he said. Winking at her. He could be Joey Tribioni’s long lost cousin, she decided. As he gave her a very open admiring look. “Um, Hank. Buddy,” Luis said. Slapping him on the shoulder in amusement. “This is Sheridan Crane, Hank. The ‘hot date’ you’re talking about,” he said. Laughing at Hank’s expression. “Oh my god! I’m so…I didn’t know…damn, Luis. Why didn’t you tell me the ‘hot date’ really was a HOT DATE?” he grinned stupidly. Sheridan laughed softly. She liked him. “Forgive my friend, here, Sheridan. Hank’s always been known to speak his mind. I’ll be right back,” he said. Casting a warning glance Hank’s way. “Wow!” Hank said after Luis had gone. “Wow,” he repeated. “Luis with a Crane. I never would have believed it if I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes. You must be pretty special, Sheridan. Luis has hated the Cranes for as long as I can remember. Yeah…always held a grudge against them…wanted to make them pay…”
He continued on. Oblivious to the stricken look on Sheridan’s face. But Sheridan wasn’t listening. She’d quit listening the moment she heard Luis and hates the Cranes in the same sentence. He hated her family. Wanted to make them pay. For what, she wondered as her heart sank somewhere down to her knees. Was it all an act? Was he using her for his own gain? Tears burned her eyes, and she blinked furiously. Trying to keep them at bay. This was all a nightmare. A horrible nightmare. She liked him. REALLY liked him. Why hadn’t he told her he hated her family? Been up front with her. “Sheridan? Sheridan? Did you hear me?” Hank asked. His hand on her arm made her jump. “I’m sorry, Hank. I…I have to go. Tell Luis I wasn’t feeling well. And I’ll see him tomorrow,” she said. Rushing out the door. “All finished,” Luis said. Coming out of his office. “Hey Hank,” he said in confusion. “Where’d Sheridan go?” “Beats me,” Hank answered with a shrug of his shoulders. “Said she wasn’t feeling too well. And that she’d see you tomorrow. It was weird, Buddy. She had this really strange look on her face when I said something about you hating her family.”
“WHAT?!?! Luis yelled. Groaning when he realized how hurt she must have been. “Hank…why’d you go and do that?” “I didn’t know,” he apologized. But Luis was already out the door. Racing after Sheridan. “Sheridan! Sheridan!” he yelled. Running across the parking lot after her. She ignored him. Getting into her car and slamming the door shut in his face. “Sheridan! Listen to me. Please,” he begged. “I know it sounded bad. But you don’t have the whole story. Give me the benefit of the doubt. Please,” he said. Sighing in relief when her blue eyes softened, and she unlocked the door. “You have a lot of explaining to do,” she said in a hurt voice. Refusing to meet his eyes. “I know,” Luis said quietly. All bravado, all teasing gone from his voice. “Can we go someplace private? I want this to just be between us.” “Okay.”
“I’m waiting,” she said. As she killed the ignition. Luis opened his car door. Stepping out onto the sand. Walking over to her side of the car and opening her door for her. Holding out his hand. He was rewarded by the feeling of her smaller hand in his, and he exhaled in relief. At least he knew she didn’t totally hate him. “What Hank said was true,” he said quietly. When they stood at the shore’s edge. The waves lapping at their feet. “I have hated your family for a long time, Sheridan. I still don’t think highly of them,” he said. Tipping her chin up with his fingers. “But…that doesn’t change the way I feel about you. Please. Believe me when I say this. I really like you,” he said. A smile lighting up his handsome features. “At first I tried to fight it. But then I realized how silly I was being. You’re a wonderful person, Sheridan Crane,” he said seriously. “And I want to get to know you better,” he smiled. “Much better,” he revealed. Grinning at her broadly. “I’ve only known you for a few weeks. But I think you’re amazing. Don’t let a stupid comment stand in our way,” he pleaded. “Please,” he pouted. Giving her his best puppy dog face.
She was powerless to resist him. She felt in her heart that he was being straight with her. Plus, she really, really liked him, too. Very much so. The tiniest of smiles began to blossom on her face. And the sparkle returned to her eyes. “I don’t know,” she said slowly. Watching as his face fell. “But I might be persuaded. Maybe you can make it up to me,” she said. Laughter tinging her voice. “But first…you’ll have to catch me,” she said with a smile. And Luis watched in amusement as she took off flying down the beachside. She giggled as he caught up to her and threw her over his shoulder. “Luis! No! Don’t you dare!” she squealed as he walked out into the waves. Holding her loosely in his arms. “Catch you? Catch you? Now that I caught you, just what am I going to do with you?” he teased. Laughing as she sputtered when the waves’ spray hit her in the face. “Luis! The water’s cold,” she cried. “Aww,” he mocked.
“Is that right?” he said. Loosening his grip and letting her slip a little. “Luis!” she shrieked as he lost his footing.
“Argh! I’m going to get you back for this,” she shivered. Splashing him in the face when they come back up. Gasping for air. He grabbed her close. Pulling her against him. “Not before I do this,” he whispered. And all thoughts of revenge flew out of Sheridan’s mind as he kissed her senseless. And the funny thing was…she wasn’t even cold anymore.
Chapter 19
Luis tangled his hands in Sheridan’s wet hair. Angling his mouth over hers. Grinning against her lips at her soft moan of pleasure. He pulled back. To look at her. “Still want to get me back,” he whispered. “Because I know the perfect way you can do it,” he teased. Tracing her swollen lips lightly with his thumb. “Wow,” he laughed. “The lady’s speechless.” And so was he. When she opened those amazing blue eyes and stared at him. A breathtaking smile taking over her entire face as she shakily said, “That was…where’d you…oh my god.” “Ditto,” Luis smirked. Leaning forward and capturing her lips with his once more. And Sheridan clung to him as he kissed her even more deeply than before. They broke apart. Breathless. “Luis…” she gasped. Her blue eyes sparkling. “Ever hear of a simple kiss on the cheek? Moving a little fast there, Officer,” she laughed as he molded her body to his. Again. Running his hands up and down her back. She shivered. And suddenly he remembered where they were. What they had left behind. “We better get back before Kay calls 9-1-1,” he whispered. Twining his fingers with hers and tugging her forward. “Yeah. We better,” she said softly.
The drive back to the Lopez-Fitzgerald house was filled with silence and meaningful, stolen glances at each other. Sheridan didn’t know how she found the strength to keep from pulling over on the side of the road and mauling the man. Especially when he kept giving her that sexy grin of his. “We’re here,” she announced. Instantly feeling silly for saying such an inane thing. Of course, Luis knows we’re here. He lives here. Deep breath. Calm those hormones of yours down, girl. She let out a tiny squeak of surprise when her car door opened, and there stood Luis. She slipped her hand in his. Praying he couldn’t hear the way her heart was pounding from the simple gesture.
“Welcome to Hell,” Kay muttered. Pulling the door open before Luis could lay a hand on the knob. “Sorry I can’t stick around, Ms. Crane. And find out exactly what happened,” she said with a suspicious smile. Looking them both up and down from head to toe. “But I’ve had enough of this freak show. Thank you very much,” she said. Passing by with a wave of her hand. A camera dangling from around her neck.
Sheridan laughed. A puzzled smile on her face. “Hell, huh? It can’t be THAT bad.” “Let’s go find out,” Luis suggested. Leading the way to Theresa’s bedroom. Muffled laughter could be heard from inside. “Shh,” he said. A finger to his lips as he eased the door open. And peeked inside. “What?” Sheridan whispered. Seeing his wide brown eyes dancing with humor. “You have to see it to believe it,” Luis chuckled. “Ethan Crane!” Sheridan shrieked in disbelief. “What is going on here?” Miguel shook with laughter in the corner, and Whitney had her arms crossed. Her foot tapping in irritation. “Luis!” Theresa squealed. Her dark brown eyes glassy and bright. “Come in. You and Ms. Crane can join in on the fun. Right, Ethan?” she giggled. Her mascara brush poised in the air. “Yeah, Aunt Sweridun,” Ethan slurred. With a dopy smile. “I feel swo bad for teasing you,” he said. “Dwess up’s not dumb. It’s fun. Isn’t it, Twesa?” “Man,” Luis laughed. “Poor guy’s never going to live this down. What did your mother give them, Whitney?” Whitney just shrugged her shoulders. “Ethan,” Sheridan sighed. Seeing his brightly painted red toenails. “Dear nephew of mine. You should be SO thankful no one in this room has a cam…oh god,” she groaned. Covering her face with her hands. Remembering the camera around Kay’s neck. She couldn’t help but laugh. The girl was PRICELESS. “Wouldn’t the tabloids love those pictures?” she mused.
Later…after she had successfully coaxed Ethan back into his OWN clothes and wiped his face clear of ALL traces of make-up…she stood at Luis’s front door. Ready to leave. Disappointment gracing her features as she eavesdropped on his conversation with Sam Bennett. The Chief of Police. He wouldn’t make their date tonight, it seemed. He was being called into work. And she knew how much the money meant to his family so she wouldn’t try to convince him otherwise. “I’m sorry,” he apologized. “That’s okay,” she said softly. “Another time, maybe,” she said with a hopeful smile. “Definitely another time,” he grinned. Taking her hand in his and playing with the ring on her finger. “I promise it’ll be worth the wait,” he boasted. And she smiled at him. Only he could get away with that statement, she thought. Any other man she would have labeled arrogant. “It better,” she teased. Her blue eyes dancing. She would have kissed him right then and there had Whitney and Miguel not been watching. With much interest she might add. “Come on, Ethan,” she said. Taking his hand and nudging him out the front door.
“WAIT!” a voice that could only belong to Theresa yelled frantically. “Here,” she said. Proudly presenting Ethan with…a teddy bear?!?! Sheridan rolled her eyes before she could stop herself. Her twenty-four-year-old nephew. A graduate of Harvard Law School. With a teddy bear. She wouldn’t have been at all surprised if Theresa slipped him a note that said “Do you like me? Check yes or no” next. “Bye, Ethan,” Theresa gushed dreamily. “I know you’ll take the best care of E.J. I named him after y…” Luis shut her up with a hand over her mouth. “I think it’s best if you got Ethan home and into bed. He looks a little green around the gills,” he said with a nod of his head. As if to prove his point…Ethan grabbed his head with his hands and in a weak voice said, “I’m getting a l’il dizzy, Aunt Sweridun. Take me home. Pwease.” “Like I said,” Luis chuckled. “The poor guy’s never going to live it down.” Especially not if Kay had anything to do about it, Sheridan thought with a smile. Ethan wouldn’t be forgetting this ‘experience’ any time soon.
Chapter 20
“Kay Bennett! What on earth are you doing wearing that sweater? Don’t tell me you’re cold,” Simone said. Kay just laughed at her. “No, I’m not cold, Simone. This is all part of the plan I told you about. Over the phone. Oh forget it. You’ve been spending WAY too much time at my house. I think my parents are rubbing off on you.” “Huh?” Simone asked. Looking at her best friend curiously. It’s true. She HAS been hanging around my house too much. I’m the only smart person in my family. And Harmony IS the Twilight Zone. Come to think of it…her dad kind of reminded her of the Scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz. She giggled at the thought. What would that make Mom, she wondered. The Cowardly Lion? Nah. More like Betty Crocker on crack. “What’s so funny Kay?” Simone asked in exasperation. “Nothing,” Kay sighed. Absolutely nothing. Today was going to be perfect. Just perfect. She could feel it in her bones. Well…except for one tiny detail. Where was Miguel?
A gigantic smile lit up her face when he stepped inside the room just seconds later. But then Luis followed behind him. And she had to rub her eyes to make sure she wasn’t seeing things. “Simone,” she hissed. “What’s Luis doing here?” “I dunno,” Simone shrugged. “Looks like Ms. Crane doesn’t either,” Kay smirked. Totally enjoying how flustered their French teacher got when she saw Miguel’s brother. Then she remembered the way they looked yesterday. Clingy, wet clothes and guilty smiles. Something was definitely going on there. “Uh oh. Trouble in paradise,” she muttered. As Ms. Crane ushered Luis outside into the hall. Oh to be a fly on that wall. “Miguel,” she heard Reese say. “What’s your brother doing here?” “You know that little lecture we get on safety every year?” Miguel asked. “Yeah. Why?” Reese asked. Pushing his glasses back on his nose. “Luis got drafted for it this time.” Oh great, Kay thought in disgust. When Ms. Crane came back inside. With Luis. And about twenty other students. Including the Lethal Weapon and the Ice Princess. What good was Theresa with one arm? The girl was actually scarier that way.
No, no, no, no!!!! Go away, she pleaded as Theresa neared her desk. I don’t want you. Nobody ever listened to her anyway. Life was so NOT fair. Theresa wedged herself in the seat beside Kay. And she had to duck to avoid being knocked out cold by that hideous piece of plaster on Theresa’s arm. She stared in morbid fascination as the various versions of Ethan Crane’s name scrawled on the cast. One signature the real deal. Surrounded by a heart. Gag me, she thought. Glancing up to meet Theresa’s face. Good lord. The girl looked like she had a hang-over. She stuck her tongue out at Whitney when she saw her glaring back at her. Whitney could shove that tennis racket…”Ahem,” she heard Ms. Crane clear her throat. “There will be NO regular class today. Instead…Officer Lopez-Fitzgerald,” she said with a nervous smile cast in Luis’s direction, “is here to teach you a few tips that can save lives. Luis…um, Officer.”
Theresa giggled. Turning to her to whisper, “It’s FATE. Luis and Ms. Crane are made for each other. Maybe they’ll invite you to the wedding, Kay,” she sighed. Shifting in the desk and elbowing Kay in the ribs. HARD. Simone turned around in her seat when she heard a low growling noise. Glaring at her. “Kay,” she hissed. “Okay,” Luis said. Clapping his hands together. “I need a volunteer to help me. Any takers?” he asked. With a rather sexy grin, Kay had to admit. Hmm. Maybe she should just forget about Miguel and go after Luis. Before the words were even out of Luis’s mouth…more than 75% of the girls in the room had raised their hands. Luis laughed nervously. Looking to Ms. Crane for help. And finding it. “I’ll help,” she said softly. And damn if they didn’t both blush in embarrassment as Luis placed his arms around Ms. Crane. Demonstrating the heimlech maneuver. The entire class watched. Fascinated. This was better than HBO.
“Um…any questions?” Luis practically stuttered. Finally looking somewhere besides Ms. Crane’s eyes. Kay rolled her eyes as Reese’s hand automatically shot up. “Actually,” Reese began. In true smart-aleck fashion. “You’re doing it all wrong, Officer. Kay. If you might help me demonstrate,” Reese said. Getting to his feet. Not on your life, she thought. But for once…God bless her…Theresa actually saved the day for her. Volunteering to help Reese out. She just knew Ms. Crane would report ALL to Ethan. After all, she reasoned. She was certain they talked about her all the time. Especially after the wonderful fun they had together yesterday. Too bad she forgot one tiny little detail, Kay thought. As the wad of bubblegum she’d been smacking on the entire morning—to her extreme irritation—shot out of her mouth and across the room. Hitting Charity square in the face. Go Theresa, she thought. Maybe you’re not USELESS.
After Theresa had apologized profusely, Luis took over again. She looked around the room. All the girls were drooling—typical, and all the guys were snoring. That is until they heard the magic words. I know he’s not. He is so NOT going to teach us how to do…oh my god, he IS. “Yeah,” she heard one of the guys behind her leer. “Now this is good. Mouth to mouth.” Boy was he wrong. Everytime Luis leaned in close to pretend to give Ms. Crane mouth to mouth, she burst into a fit of laughter. The whole class was cracking up with her by the time the bell rang. She grabbed her books and set her plan in motion. The sweater was gone. And emblazoned across the white tee she wore was Ethan Crane in all his cross-dressing glory. Eat this, Theresa.
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