All This Time

Luis sighed at his desk at the Police Station. It had been a long day and he was glad that the day was almost over. He put his pen down and took a break from his paper work. He looked up and saw the picture he cherished most on his desk. It was of him and Sheridan on their wedding day. He picked it up and looked longingly at it. Luis remembered that day and how happy they were.
*Flashback*
There was lots of laughter filling the reception hall and Hank was toasting the happy couple. "Well, here's to my best friend in the entire world and his beautiful new bride. I wish the both of you all the happiness in the world. Lord knows after all you went through to get here today you deserve at least that much. So, here I am, Hank Bennett, best man, asking all of you to raise your glasses and celebrate this union that was a long time in the making. To Sheridan and Luis." Everyone raised their glasses of champagne and toasted the couple and there was lots of applause for them. Luis and Sheridan smiled at each other and Luis leaned down to kiss his bride. The DJ broke the applause and announced that it was time for the first dance for the newlyweds. Luis led Sheridan out onto the dance floor and in front of all their family and friends, they shared their first dance as husband and wife.

Maybe it's intuition
But some things you just don't question
Like in your eyes
I see my future in an instant
And there it goes
I think I've found my best friend
I know that it might sound more than a little crazy
But I believe


I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life


"Well Mrs. Lopez-Fitzgerald, it has been quite a day," Luis said. "I love the sound of my new name, Officer. This has been the best day of my entire life." She looked deeply into his eyes and reached up to kiss him. "Me too, Sheridan, me too. Today was great, but I can't wait until tonight." Luis wiggled his eyebrows suggestively at his wife and she just giggled at him. She wrapped her arms tightly around Luis and pulled him close to her and they continued their dance.
There's just no rhyme or reason
Only this sense of completion
And in your eyes
I see the missing pieces
I'm searching for
I think I've found my way home
I know that it might sound more than a little crazy
But I believe

I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life


"Thank you for making me the happiest man in the world. I am so lucky to have you in my life, Sheridan." "No, Luis, thank you for saving me on more than one occasion. I love you so much and I know that being here together today is an indication that there isn't any obstacle in this world that we can't overcome as long as we do it together." Remembering those words yanked Luis from his reverie. "Together." Luis sighed and sadly set the picture down on his desk and went back to finish up his work for the day. He was finally done and was getting ready to go home when Sam came in. "Hey Luis." "Oh, hey, Sam." "Are you going home for the day?" "Yeah, I'm finally finished. How's Grace and the family?" "They are all doing great. How's Sheridan doing?" Sam asked cautiously. A sad look washed over Luis's strong face. "Uh, she's about the same really." He tried to hide the sadness in his voice, but he was sure Sam wasn't buying it. "Well, we are all pulling for you both. Send her our best." "Thanks Sam. I will. Goodnight." "Yeah, goodnight, Luis." Sam watched Luis walk away sadly towards his car. He felt so bad for everything that he was going through. Luis drove up to their house and slowly got out. He walked up and opened the front door and there was no sign of Sheridan in the living room. He looked in the kitchen, and she wasn't there either. He knew where she would be, but he was hoping she wouldn't be there. He walked upstairs and sure enough she was in the same place she had been everyday he came home for the last three months. Luis stopped in the doorway of the room and just watched her. Sheridan was sitting in a rocking chair with the lights off staring out the window. Luis knew this scene all too well. He found her this way everyday upon returning home from work. She wasn't crying, she just remained silent and rocked in the chair. He didn't know if she stayed that way all day long, but he was pretty sure that she did. He was so worried about her that it was making him sick inside. He broke the silence to let his wife know that he was home not that he thought it would do any good, but he had to try. "Hi honey." Luis walked over to her and kneeled down beside her.
"Hi," she said dryly. She continued to stare out the window and didn't even look at her husband. Luis reached out and grabbed her hand. She jerked her hand away and wrapped her arms around her knees and hugged them close to her body. Luis sighed inwardly and told her he was going to change. When he was gone Sheridan finally stood up and walked downstairs. She remained silent as she went into the kitchen to fix dinner. Luis walked into their bedroom that was well known to him, but it felt cold and unfamiliar. He opened a drawer to get a shirt when he saw another picture of him and Sheridan. This picture was taken six months ago. They looked so happy. Luis remembered the day it was taken.
*Flashback*
"Sheridan, I'm home," Luis yelled as he walked through the door. He took off his coat and looked around the living room for a sign of his beautiful wife. He noticed that she had been busy putting up Christmas decorations. Christmas music was playing in the background but he couldn't find Sheridan. He walked to the doorway of the kitchen and found her standing there. "Hey, didn't you hear me yelling for you?" Sheridan smiled sweetly at him. "Yes Luis, I did. Look up." Luis did as he was told and noticed they were standing under mistletoe. "I've been waiting for you to come find me in here so I could do this." She wrapped her arms around Luis and pulled him in for a deep kiss. "How was your day, sweetie?" "Well, it was pretty good, but coming home to you makes it so much better. I could get used to this kind of greeting when I get home everyday." He smiled at her and pulled her in towards him so he could kiss her again. "I see you've been very busy today. The place looks great."
"Thank you. I kind of like it myself, Officer. Oh I have a surprise for you, but you'll have to wait until after dinner to get it." She smiled devilishly at him and he wondered what she had up her sleeve. "Why Mrs. Lopez-Fitzgerald, you aren't trying to pull one over on your husband are you?" She smiled innocently at him. "Of course not." She kissed him one more time before pushing him out of the kitchen so she could finish dinner. She was setting the table when Luis came back in carrying a bottle of her favorite wine. "I thought this would go nicely with dinner." Sheridan looked at him and tried not to spill her secret. They were eating dinner and Luis was telling her about his day. They laughed and were having a great time. Luis noticed she wasn't touching her wine. "Hey, why aren't you drinking the wine it is your favorite after all." "Oh, I just don't feel like it right now." She was so excited she was about to burst. They were done eating dinner and Luis kept looking strangely at her. "WHAT?" "Can I have my surprise now pleeeease?" He sounded so child like. Sheridan rolled her eyes but burst out laughing at his pleading nature.
"Yes, Luis, you can have your surprise now." She stood up to walk into the den where she had the present. Luis followed her in there. "Well, Sheridan, we haven't done it in here for a long time. This is a nice surprise." "This isn't your surprise, Romeo. Go back into the living room and sit down." She smiled at how cute he was couldn't wait to tell him. She handed him the gift and Luis shook it acting like a child trying to figure out what it was. He finally unwrapped it and took the lid off the box. Inside was a silver frame saying "Worlds Greatest Dad" with his picture inside. It took him a second to catch on. Sheridan smiled at him. "What wait does this mean that we " "Are going to have a baby," Sheridan finished for him. "A baby?" Luis asked. "Yes, a baby." Sheridan replied. "You're pregnant?" "Yes, Luis, that's what I'm telling you." "I'M GONNA BE A DADDY!" Luis shouted and jumped to his feet. He picked Sheridan up and swung her around before pulling her in so he could kiss her. He hugged her tight to him. "Sheridan, this is the best news."
"I was hoping you would think so." Sheridan stood still embraced by him. "I've been dying to tell you, but I was waiting for the right moment. I figured since it's only a couple of weeks until Christmas I could give you a present a little early." "Well, it is the best present I could've gotten. This is going to be an amazing Christmas." Sheridan smiled at him. She was so happy that they were starting a family. "Just wait until next year, Daddy." "Oh I love the sound of that, Mommy." "I can get used to that name too. Now, let's take a picture of us so we will always remember this day." Sheridan ran to get the camera, and Luis couldn't stop smiling. She set the camera on the coffee table and set the timer. Luis was already sitting by the tree and she snuggled down next to him and he wrapped his arms around her. They smiled and the camera captured that magical moment for the both of them. Luis sighed again for the umpteenth time that day and sat the picture back in its place. 'Six months ago. How much my life has changed in that short span of time. Why can't we get back what we had, Sheridan?' He changed his clothes and went into the kitchen to find Sheridan.
Sheridan was in the kitchen mindlessly chopping up vegetables for a salad. She knew how much this was killing Luis, but she just couldn't stop feeling the way she did. Her mind was racing through thousands of memories. She couldn't force her mind to stop and focus on the good times. It was like her mind was fast forwarding through all the good to get to the terrible tragedy that turned their world upside down. She stood in the kitchen and remembered that day.
*Flashback*
Sheridan and Luis were getting ready to go to the Policeman's Benefit. Luis was having trouble with his tie and was cursing it in the mirror. Sheridan walked out from the bathroom and she took Luis's breath away. "Here, let me help you with that tie." Luis's breath caught in his throat. "Sheridan, you are the most beautiful woman in the world. How did I get so lucky to have you as my wife and the mother of my child?" He rubbed her now showing belly. As soon as she was done fixing his tie, Luis leaned down so he could talk to her stomach. "Hello baby. I can't wait until you come out so you can know how wonderful your mommy is. I've known for a long time, but I can't wait for you to know her too." He kissed her stomach and she ruffled his hair. "You're too sweet, Luis. I love you so much." "I love you too Forever and Always." He kissed her and they started toward the door. They were almost toward the door when Sheridan doubled over in pain. She grabbed her stomach and started crying. "LUIS! LUIS, something is wrong!" "Sheridan, what is it? Is it the baby?" "Yes, please call an ambulance or take me to the hospital." She kept crying out in pain and Luis scooped her up and got her in the car. He drove her to the hospital as fast as he could get her there. He grabbed Sheridan's face and forced her to look at him. "Sheridan, you are going to be okay. I'm going to get the doctor and I'll be right back, okay?" "Okay, please hurry, something isn't right." She wrapped her arms around her stomach and tried to be strong for Luis's sake. He came back with a doctor and the doctor wheeled her into an exam room so he could do some tests. The doctor wouldn't let Luis in with her and it was just Sheridan and the doctor. "Doctor, what's wrong with my baby?"
"We're going to find out, Sheridan. I'm going to go get the fetal monitor and get you hooked up to that. I'll be right back," the doctor replied. "Can Luis please come in here with me?" "Yes, I'll send him in." Luis darted in the room and rushed to sit by Sheridan. He grabbed her hand and stroked her hair. "Luis, I'm scared. I'm really scared. What if something goes wrong with our baby?" "Shhh Sheridan, don't talk like that. They have great doctors here, and they will fix whatever is wrong," he tried to assure her. The doctor came back in and got Sheridan hooked up to the fetal monitor. When he did, it started beeping rapidly and a team of doctors and nurses rushed in. Luis was rushed out of the room. Sheridan kept screaming for Luis, but they wouldn't let him near her.
All she remembered was hearing that the baby's heart rate dropped and they were going to have to get the baby out ASAP. "It's too soon. It's too soon. I can't have my baby yet," Sheridan yelled. They got the baby out, but it was too late. She was too premature and there was nothing the doctors could do to save their baby. When the doctors finally let Luis see Sheridan, she was a wreck. Luis walked into her room and dried his eyes before he she could see that he had been crying. She saw this and it made her cry even harder. "I lost my baby OUR baby, Luis. How could I let this happen to us?" Luis sat and held her as she cried. "It's not your fault, Sheridan. It's not anyone's fault." Together they sat and cried over the loss of their daughter, Mariah. Sheridan snapped out of her memory and realized she was crying. She wiped away the tears before Luis came down. For three months it had been the same routine. He would get up and go to work, and she would sit in Mariah's nursery. When he got home she would get up and fix his dinner. Very few words were spoken. Sheridan blamed herself for the loss of their child and wasn't so sure she would ever be the same again. Luis was always there to support her, but she grew distant from him and she felt like she couldn't even talk to him about it anymore. That child was inside her and something inside her killed it. Sheridan felt Luis didn't understand. Just then Luis walked into the kitchen. "Can I help?" Luis tried every attempt to make conversation but it was no use. "No, I'll be done soon." "Well, that was a whole sentence that's progress." Luis knew he shouldn't have said that, but he just couldn't help himself anymore. He wanted Sheridan back. "Set the table. Dinner will be done soon," Sheridan replied coolly.
"Sheridan, look at me!" Sheridan didn't look at him and kept chopping the vegetables. "WILL YOU FORGET ABOUT THE DAMN DINNER FOR TWO MINUTES?" Luis shouted. It was the first time he'd snapped at her. He just couldn't keep this bottled up inside any longer. It was just as hard on him losing their baby, but life didn't stop. They still had their life together, but that life was slowly fading into non-existence. Sheridan sat the knife down and slowly turned to look at him. She was taken aback by his tone, but decided this was long overdue. She looked him in the eyes, but couldn't force herself to maintain eye contact. Luis stared her down and she averted his gaze the best she could. Luis was happy to see her at least try to make an effort, no matter how miniscule it was. "Sheridan, sweetie, please look at me." He pleaded with her and his tone softened. She turned her eyes back towards his and saw Luis's eyes looking back at her lovingly. When she didn't look away, he slowly reached his hand up to brush away a lone tear that remained on her face. When his hand made contact she tensed up and turned away like his touch had burned her skin. Luis was crushed. She was his whole world and it felt like she wasn't in it any longer. He sighed. He was so sick and tired of this. He was willing to do anything to get her to respond. If that meant provoking her so she'd yell at him, then so be it. But unfortunately, he wasn't up for that tonight. "DAMMIT SHERIDAN! I can't take this tonight." Luis had had it and he grabbed his keys and headed out the door slamming it behind him. Sheridan jumped at the sound of the slamming door. She broke out into sobs. She realized that she was rapidly losing Luis too. She desperately wanted to get back what they had, but she had no clue where to begin.
Sheridan was tired. She was tired of feeling dead inside. She was tired of pushing Luis away when he only wanted to help her. She was tired of grieving for the loss of their child 24 hours a day. She was tired of all the sympathetic looks she got from everyone. She was just tired. Sheridan cleaned up the kitchen and put the dinner in the refrigerator in case Luis wanted it when he got home. She was worried about him. She hadn't seen him snap like that since this whole thing happened. She knew deep down that he just needed to vent because he was trying to be strong for the both of them, and he needed a break. Sheridan was so tired that she couldn't drag herself upstairs. She turned on the TV and covered up with a blanket on the couch. She fell asleep dreaming of happier times with Luis.
*Flashback*
Sheridan finished getting ready. All she had to do was put on her lipstick and then she would be ready to go. She had on a short black beaded dress and she had her hair all curled. She wore her diamond necklace and between the necklace and the dress, she sparkled. She was sure Luis would love it. She couldn't wait for him to get there. She had a feeling this would be night they would both remember forever. It was New Year's Eve and they were going to the annual Crane New Year's Ball. Luis had really come around and tolerated her family for her sake. That was one thing she loved most about him. It was going to be a great party, but most importantly she just wanted to ring in the new year with the man she was head over heels in love with. Sheridan finished applying her red lipstick and sprayed on some of her favorite perfume that Luis got her for her birthday. There was a knock at her door and she smiled. She knew who was waiting on the other side and couldn't get there fast enough. She opened to door to find Luis standing there with a single red rose in hand. He had on a black tuxedo and she was sure she'd never seen anyone look so amazing in a tux before. He handed her the rose and she thanked him. "You look AMAZING, Sheridan. I I Wow!" "Officer Lopez-Fitzgerald at a loss for words? Let me get a pen and write this down," she teased. They both laughed and he just kept staring at her. "So, are you ready to go, Sheridan?" "Yeah, I can't wait. This party is going to be great. But I am most looking forward to spending the evening with you." She smiled at him and she desperately wanted to rip off his tux and jump him right then and there, but she knew they would have all night, and there was no need to rush things. Luis helped her with her coat and they left for the ball. She noticed that he was rather nervous in the car. He kept fidgeting and she didn't know what was going on. "Luis, what's the matter with you? I haven't seen you this fidgety in I don't know when." "Nothing's wrong. I'm just excited about the party that's all. However, I'm going to have to keep an extra close eye on you tonight," Luis said. "And why is that, Officer?" "Because the way you look in that dress, if I turn my back for a second, someone else is going to steal you away."
Sheridan blushed at his comment. He was so sweet. "Well, Luis, I don't think you'll have to worry. No one is going to take me away from you. If anyone has to worry, it would be me. I'll knock any woman out if they try to lay a hand on my man." Luis laughed. "Why Ms. Crane, a woman as refined as yourself would resort to violence?" "Hell yes. In case you haven't noticed, you're extremely easy on the eyes and I have noticed other women checking you out before. I didn't like it." "Well, Sheridan, you don't have to worry. I only have eyes for you. I love you." "I love you too, Luis." They were dancing at the ball and having a great time. The place looked amazing and everyone was having fun celebrating. Sheridan hardly noticed anyone but Luis the entire night. They were so lost in each other. "Back at One" came on and Luis pulled Sheridan out on the dance floor.

It's undeniable
That we should be together
It's unbelievable
How I used to say
That I'd never fall
If you don't know
Just how I feel
Then let me show you now
That I'm for real
If all things in time
Time will reveal
One
You're like a dream come true
Two
Just wanna be with you
Three
Girl it's plain to see
That you're the only one for me
And four
Repeat steps one thru three
Five
Make you fall in love with me
If ever I believe my work is done
Then I'll start back at one
It's so incredible
The way things work themselves out And all emotional
Once you know what it's all about, hey And undesirable
For us to be apart
I never would have made it very far
'Cause you know you've got the keys to my heart
Repeat Chrous:

Say farewell to the dark of night
I see the coming of the sun
I feel like a little child
Whose life has just begun
You came and breathed new life
Into this lonely heart of mine
You threw out the lifeline
Just in the nick of time


One
You're like a dream come true Two
Just wanna be with you Three
Girl it's plain to see That you're the only one for me And four
Repeat steps one thru three Five
Make you fall in love with me
If ever I believe my work is done
Then I'll start back at one

Luis held Sheridan close to him and she got lost in his embrace. She looked up at him and into his dark eyes. They were so full of love and her knees got weak. They always did when he looked at her that way. Luis excused himself and Sheridan found Ethan and was talking to him. It was nearing midnight and she couldn't find Luis. 'I wonder where that man is. He better hurry back, because I refuse to ring in the New Year without him at my side.' Someone made an announcement that there were only 30 seconds left until the New Year, and Luis still wasn't back. Sheridan looked all over the place for him. She couldn't find his familiar face anywhere in the crowd. The countdown had begun.
"10 9 8 7 6 5 " "Luis where are you," Sheridan whispered. "Right here." He turned her around and just as the clock struck 12:00 and kissed her with as much passion and love as she had ever experienced. "Happy New Year." "Happy New Year, Luis." She wrapped him up in a big hug. "I love you." "I love you too." "Where were you, I was getting worried." "I had to take care of something. Come outside with me please." She smiled at him, curious as to what he was up to. "Okay, Luis." They walked outside and he told her to close her eyes. She did as she was told and waited for him to tell her to open them. When she did open her eyes, Luis was kneeling before her with a ring in hand. Tears sprung to her eyes and she smiled at Luis.
"Sheridan Crane, you are my best friend, soul mate, and love of my life. I am so lucky to have you in my life and I want to spend the rest of mine showing you how much you mean to me. Will you marry me?" Sheridan let the happy tears escape from her eyes. "Yes, Luis, Yes! I would love to marry you." He rose to his feet and placed the ring on her finger. She grabbed his face and pulled it down to meet hers so she could kiss him. "Luis, I love you so much." "I love you, too. Forever and always." They left the party shortly after the proposal and made love all night in her cottage. There was a knock at the door and it ripped Sheridan from her first pleasant dream in months. She woke up feeling better than she had in a long time. She answered the door and found Sam Bennett standing there. She instantly knew something was wrong by the look on his face. "Sam, what happened? What happened to Luis?" "Sheridan, please, calm down." "I won't calm down until you tell me what happened, Sam." "Luis was in a car accident." "Oh my God. Why is this happening? Why is this happening to me, to us? Why?" Sheridan felt her knees buckle and she sank to the floor and broke out into sobs. "Is he is he oh God."
"Sheridan, he's alive, but it's bad. Come on, I'll take you to the hospital." All Sheridan could do was cry. She felt her heart breaking inside her chest. She had felt that before with the loss of their child but it was happening all over again every painful second of it. Sam kneeled down to comfort her and helped her stand up. "Come on Sheridan. I'll drive you, let's go." "I can't do this. I can't lose him, Sam. I'm not strong enough to deal with this on top of everything else that's happened." "Sheridan don't say that. You are one of the strongest women I know and I know Luis feels the same way. He needs you now, and you're going to have to be there for him." Sheridan wiped her eyes and went to get her purse. She got into Sam's jeep and rode to the hospital where her one true love's life hung in the balance. "Sam, will you call Pilar and the rest of the family?" "Grace took care of that, Sheridan. Come on, let's find out where Luis is." Sam put his arm around Sheridan and walked with her to the nurse's station.
"I'm Sheridan Lopez-Fitzgerald. I need to know where my husband, Luis, is." Sheridan felt like she was going to throw up as the nurse was leading her to Luis's room. She was unaware of what she would find and that scared her to death. It was a horrible feeling like she was being led to her own execution. For the first time in months it was upon her to be the strong one. She had to be strong for Luis. He needed her now, and she was determined to be there for him. When they got to the room, the nurse informed Sheridan that he had emergency surgery to stop the internal bleeding. He was still unconscious and listed as critical. The nurse told her that he was hooked up to a machine to help him breathe and not to be alarmed when she saw it. Sheridan braced herself and entered Luis's room. She gasped when she saw the site of Luis lying lifeless in his bed. She wanted to cry but she had no tears left in her, and she knew crying wasn't going to help the situation. She sat down in a chair next to his bed and looked at all the cuts and bruises that marred his handsome face. "Oh Luis, how could this happen? Haven't we had enough trouble for one lifetime?" She choked back her tears and reached out to hold Luis's hand. She stroked it with her own hand and just stared at him. She was sitting for awhile when she heard a soft knock on the door. It was Pilar. "Sheridan?"
"Pilar." Sheridan went over to her and hugged her. She could see that Pilar had been crying and she fought back her own tears. The family needed her to be strong and after all they had done for her, she had to do it. She had to be the rock. "How's he doing, Sheridan?" "I'm not sure. The doctors aren't saying much. I know he's still in critical condition and he hasn't regained consciousness yet. Luis is strong, Pilar. He will pull through this. He just has to. How are you and the family holding up?" "We're trying to be strong for Luis and for you, but it's so hard. How are you feeling?" "I've definitely been better. I feel so awful right now because Luis and I got into an argument before he flew out of the house. I feel like this is all my fault." "Sheridan, you mustn't think like that. You're everything to Luis. Don't ever doubt that." "Pilar, I've been a zombie ever since I lost Mariah. I kept pushing Luis away and just assumed that he would always be there. I don't know what I'm going to do if I lose him, too. I can't handle that."
"Sheridan, stop it! You hear me? I will not have you talk like that. It's not good for Luis, it's not good for you, and it's not good for the family. We have to stick together for Luis's sake." She hugged Sheridan again. "You're right. I have to pull it together, and I'm going to. Luis needs me. He's been the rock through everything with losing the baby and I can't let him down now when he needs me the most." Sheridan was amazed that she could talk about losing the baby now. Before she had been so closed off and she wouldn't allow herself to talk about it because it made it seem too real. She realized that with Luis fighting for his life that she couldn't dwell on the past right now. All the crying in the world wouldn't bring their daughter back and she had to concentrate on the present right now. Her husband, the love of her life, was still here, still alive. He was her future. She felt sorry for all the time she pushed him away, but she would have time for that later. She had to be with Luis. "Pilar, I'm going to go sit with Luis." "Okay. I'll be out with Theresa and Miguel. I know they would like to see you soon." "Okay, I'll be out there shortly. I just need to talk to Luis. The nurse said it would help." She hugged Pilar and returned to her seat at his bedside. She sat and gently stroked his hair and held his hand in hers. "Hey Supercop. It's me. Oh Luis, how did this happen? I'm so sorry I have been pushing you away. I know that you were just trying to help me. I knew we were in for a big fight tonight. Is that why you left? What I wouldn't give for you to just sit up and argue with me. It's been a long time since we've had a legendary Crane/Lopez-Fitzgerald argument huh?" Sheridan flashed back to the first time she met Luis. She smashed into his police car make that police cars and he had her arrested. She thought for sure that he was the most insufferable man she had ever met, and he thought she was a spoiled princess. She smiled at remembering all of the biting commentary they had shared with one another. That seemed like a million years ago.
"Luis, after you left the house tonight, I cried for what seemed like the billionth time, but I laid down on the couch and had the most wonderful dream. I dreamt about that night you asked me to marry you. What a special day that was for me, for the both of us. When I woke up, for the first time in an extremely long time, I felt good. I felt alive. I couldn't wait for you to get home so I could tell you about it, but I didn't have time to think about it because that's when Sam came to the door to tell me you had had an accident. I didn't think it was possible for my heart to break again, but it did. It broke all over again as soon as I saw the look on Sam's face and I realized something was wrong with you. I need you in my life. I need us to be an "us" again. Your love is what keeps me alive, Luis. I miss you I need you and I love you." She was on the verge of tears and a few slipped out. She leaned over Luis and lightly brushed her lips on his forehead. She decided she needed to get some coffee and walked out to find Luis's family their family. As soon as she saw Theresa and Miguel they ran over to her to hug her. They talked a little and Sheridan told them that she needed all of them more than ever right now. They needed to pull together for Luis. Miguel offered to go with Pilar to get some coffee, and Theresa and Sheridan sat on the couch in the waiting room. "How are you Sheridan? I haven't seen you much lately." "I won't lie to you, I've been pretty bad. I've been shutting out the world 24 hours a day Luis too. However, tonight before I found out about the accident, I had a wonderful dream. I woke up and for the first time in months I felt alive again. It was a great feeling however short-lived it was." Sheridan looked at Theresa's sad face.
"Sheridan, we have been so worried about you. None of us knew how to help you. And now that Luis is in there how much more do you have to put up with?" Theresa broke down into sobs and Sheridan wrapped her arms around her. "Shh it's going to be okay, Theresa. We're all going to pull through this. Have you called Ethan?" "Yes, he said he was going to get here as soon as he could." "Good. I'm so glad that you and Ethan found each other. You make him happier than I have ever seen him. You are his soul mate, Theresa." Sheridan felt so good being able to talk and think about other things for a change. Granted it was a tragic situation that brought them together like this, but it made her realize how strong her love for the Lopez-Fitzgerald family was and how much she loved Luis. She had almost forgotten. Sheridan looked up and she saw Ethan hurrying towards them. She nudged Theresa and she saw Ethan too. Theresa ran into Ethan's arms and she broke down into tears. Sheridan took this as her exit cue and was anxious to get back to Luis's side.
Sheridan resumed her position in the chair next to Luis's bed. She continued to sit and hold his hand and talk to him. She slowly drifted to sleep in her chair and began dreaming again. *Flashback* Sheridan collapsed on Luis's chest, spent. It was the first time the couple had made love. She reached up and kissed his lips again and wrapped the blankets around them. "Luis, wow, that was incredible." She snuggled up against him and nuzzled his neck. Luis kept his arms wrapped around her and he kissed her forehead. "It's never been like that before, Sheridan." "I know what you mean." "What a great idea you had to come skiing." "Well, I've been known to have many good ideas in my day, Luis." "I hope I get to see some more of those good ideas...soon." Sheridan just chuckled at him as she traced lazy circles on his chest with her fingers.
"I could stay like this forever. I wish we didn't have to go back to Harmony tomorrow. Maybe we'll get snowed in and we could stay here together for a long time." "That would be great. There is no place I would rather be than right here with you." Sheridan drifted off to sleep still snuggled against Luis. She was almost asleep when she heard Luis whisper "I love you, Sheridan Crane" in her ear. She smiled and drifted off to sleep. She never told Luis that she heard him say that to her that night, but she has always cherished that memory. She knew at that moment that she'd love Luis forever. Sheridan stirred awake and slowly sat up to see if there was any change in Luis's condition. There wasn't. He seemed to be sleeping peacefully, but she needed him to be awake. Just then a nurse came in and said they were going to take Luis off the ventilator to see if he would respond on his own. Sheridan was scared. What if he didn't respond? They wouldn't allow her to remain in the room, so she stood in the doorway. The doctor was finished and he came out to talk to Sheridan. He told her that Luis responded and he was able to breathe on his own. He told her that he wasn't awake yet, but his prognosis was good. Sheridan thanked him and went back to sit with Luis. She ran her hand gently across Luis's face. She loved him so much. She leaned over and whispered in his ear. "I love you Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald." She kissed his lips softly, and as soon as she did, Luis began to wake up. "Luis?" "Sh Sheridan? There's my angel." Sheridan smiled. He hadn't called her his angel in a long time. "Hi" she whispered. "Luis, how are you feeling? Do you want me to get the doctor?" "No, not yet. I want to talk to you first." His voice was very soft and the words seemed like they were fighting to come out. "Luis, you just had a serious accident. I'm sure this can wait until you've had some more rest." "No it can't wait. I really need to talk to you." "Okay "
"Sheridan, I'm so sorry I scared you. Before I lost consciousness, that's all I could think about how scared you would be when you heard. I didn't want to be the one to cause you anymore pain." "Shhh Luis, don't. The most important thing right now is that you get well. I'm so happy you are going to be all right. I love you so much, you know that don't you?" Luis felt his eyes well up. He signs of the old Sheridan sitting in front of him. He was sorry these were the circumstances, but he was glad to have her back. "Luis, what's the matter?" Sheridan reached up to wipe away the tear that was running down his cheek. "Sheridan, I have been waiting for so long to get the old you back. I feel like you are slowly coming back to me. I know how much you love me, and I love you too always and forever." Sheridan felt her eyes well up with tears again this time they were happy tears. She knew they still had a long way to go, and they would get there. But for now she was so happy and at peace to see that Luis was going to be okay. She leaned over kissed him gently and rested her head on his chest and listened to his heart beating. The sound of his heart lulled her into a peaceful sleep.
Two months later it was Sheridan and Luis's fifth wedding anniversary. They managed to take things one day at a time to slowly get their life back on track. Sheridan returned home and she found a note on the counter. It was from Luis. He told her she was to meet him at the place where he FIRST told her he loved her. Sheridan thought for a second. The first real time was at the cabin, but she wasn't sure he knew she knew. The other "first" time was on Luis's birthday at her cottage. She wondered what he was up to, but she couldn't wait to find out. Sheridan ran upstairs and packed a bag and headed for the cabin hoping to find Luis there. When Sheridan reached the cabin, she saw a light on inside, but she didn't see Luis's jeep outside. She went to the door and found a note taped to it. She opened it up and it said "I." She opened the door and walked inside. The cabin was aglow with candles and she saw a path of notes among scattered rose petals leading her to the bedroom. She picked up the next note and it read "knew." The next one "you." She picked up all of them and pieced them together. "I knew you heard me that night." Sheridan smiled and opened the bedroom door to find Luis sitting on the bed. He smiled when he saw her walk in and hurried to the door to greet his wife. "Hey beautiful. I've been waiting for you." Luis ran his thumb lightly across Sheridan's cheek. "Hi. How did you know?" Sheridan looked at him curiously. She never told him she heard him that night. Luis just smiled at her and leaned down to kiss his wife. Sheridan wrapped her arms around him and never wanted to let go. Luis broke the kiss and looked deep into her eyes. A huge Cheshire grin spread across his face. "What?" "You talk in your sleep." Luis studied the look on Sheridan's face as she was trying to figure it out. She was still sporting a confused look on her face, so Luis explained. "That night, after we made love for the first time, I whispered in your ear and told you I loved you. I thought you were already asleep. I stayed awake for a long time just watching you sleep, and that's when I heard you. You said "I love you, too, Luis." I knew at that moment that I was going to love you forever." Sheridan looked lovingly at Luis and felt herself fall in love all over again. She smiled at him and wrapped him in a big hug. "I love you, Officer Lopez-Fitzgerald," she whispered in his ear. Luis smiled. "I love you, too." "So, what do you have planned for us tonight, Officer?" Sheridan asked inquisitively. "Well, that's for me to know and you to find out." Luis flashed his killer smile he enjoyed torturing her like this. "Luiiiis pleeeease?" "Nope, not telling you will just have to wait." "Is there anything I can do to convince you?" Sheridan ran her fingers through his hair. "Mmmm, nope, can't think of anything." "Not even if I do this " Sheridan started kissing his cheek and made her way to his neck. "Uh well, that's a step in the right direction." Sheridan wrapped her arms around his shoulders and blew softly on his neck. "Well, I'll love you like I do in that black thing you like so well." Sheridan met his eyes and wiggled her eyebrows at him. "Damn Sheridan, you know I can't resist that." Sheridan smiled knowingly acknowledging her victory. "Okay. We were going to have a nice leisurely dinner, do some dancing and then come back here, but I'm all for skipping that now and just staying here. Whattaya say," Luis sputtered as fast as he could. "Now Luis, you know how I love to dance. Good things come to those who wait. Let's go." "Sheridan, pleeease?" Luis whined back. "Luis, we're going to go to dinner." She kissed his lips lightly and ran her finger
over the buttons on his shirt. "Then we're going to do some dancing." She kissed him again. "And then we'll come back here and I'll reward you for being a good boy and letting me have my way." She knew she was driving him crazy and that was her whole plan. "I'm going to go change, and then we'll go. Okay, sweetie?" "Uh huh," he said half-dazed. He watched her pick up her bag and go into the bathroom to change. "Sheridan, that wasn't fair," he teased. "I know, baby, I know," she called out from the bathroom. Luis was fixing his tie when he heard the bathroom door swing open. He looked up to see his wife emerging wearing a fitted, black spaghetti-strapped dress and a pearl choker. She still took his breath away. "You look beautiful." "Thank you. I am having some trouble with this zipper think you can help me with it?" She smiled at Luis knowing what this was doing to him. "Yeah, come here." Sheridan did as she was told and turned around so her back was to Luis. Luis ran his hands lightly down her arms and planted soft kisses on her neck and down to her shoulder. Sheridan's eyes fluttered shut and enjoyed feeling his lips on her skin. His fingers slowly traced lines down her back. His hands finally reached their destination and quickly zipped up her dress. "Okay, ready to go?" Sheridan turned around, knowing full well he did that on purpose to get back at her. "Ugh, Luis, that wasn't fair," she whined. "Well, no one said paybacks were easy," he teased. She just smiled at him. "Let's go the sooner we eat, the sooner we can continue this." "Sounds good." The couple left for the restaurant. When they got there, Sheridan noticed that there was no one else there." "Luis, where is everyone?" "Well, tonight is just for you and me, so this restaurant is completely ours for the evening." Sheridan was so touched by this. "You did all of this for me? You really are too good to me. I love every second of it, too." "I love spoiling you. Happy Anniversary Mrs. Lopez-Fitzgerald," He whispered in her ear as he wrapped his arms around her waist. "Happy Anniversary, Luis." They ate their dinner and danced a few dances. They talked about how well things were between them again despite all that had happened. Both were eager to get back to the cabin and what the rest of the night held in store for them. They left the restaurant arm in arm and walked back to their cabin. When they reached the door, Luis picked Sheridan up and flung her over his shoulder and raced back to the bedroom as fast as he could. Sheridan was squealing with laughter. "LUIS! AAHHH! Put me down!" "Uh uh, I'm not going to put you down." Sheridan smacked him playfully. "Hey, no need to resort to violence, honey." "Okay, Luis, you can play that way if you want but if you don't put me down, you'll never get to see what's in that bag," Sheridan teased. Luis looked over and noticed a small Victoria's Secret bag lying by the bed. "Well, maybe I was being a bit too hasty." Luis lowered her to the floor and she smiled at him. "I thought you'd see things my way." She kissed him quickly and walked towards the bathroom. "I'll be right back," she called over her shoulder. Luis noticed that she forgot to pick up her bag and decided to take a peek to see what was inside. The bag was empty. "Hey Luis," Sheridan called from behind the door. "Yeah, baby." "Can you hand me what's in the bag." "Um, there's nothing in there." Just then the door swung open and Sheridan stood there wearing only her pearls and her high heels. "Oh yeah, I forgot!" Luis dropped the bag he had in his hands and felt his mouth fall open. "I I uh WOW!" Sheridan smiled and walked over to Luis. She grabbed his tie and pulled him in and kissed him fervently. She broke the kiss and looked deep into his eyes. She undid his tie and slowly pulled the tie from Luis's collar and let it drop to the floor. Sheridan un-tucked his shirt and started undoing the buttons. Luis started to say something but she placed her finger gently on his lips and kissed him again. He ran his fingers through her hair and cupped her face with his hands while she kissed the exposed area of his chest and finished undoing the buttons. She ran her hands down his chest and over the well-defined muscles of his stomach. Sheridan pushed his shirt over his broad shoulders and let it fall to the floor. Luis was going crazy he wanted Sheridan so badly. Sheridan knew she held the power over Luis right now, but she wanted to share it. She reached up and put her hand behind his head and pulled him in for another deep kiss. He began to run his hands down her back and pulled her as close to him as he could. She began working on his belt and she slowly unzipped his pants. Luis pulled away from her mouth and moaned her name. She continued to work his pants down and Luis kicked out of them. He started planting kisses on her forehead and continued down her face until he reached her neck. Sheridan groaned softly at feeling his kiss and felt the chills run up her spine. She gently raked her nails down Luis's back causing Goosebumps to form on his skin. Luis worked his way back up to kiss her lips again and Sheridan began toying with the waistband on his silk boxers. They both felt the heat radiating between them. Luis scooped Sheridan up and led her over to the bed and laid her down gently. He lowered himself down onto her body and began planting a trail of kisses over her entire body. Sheridan ruffled his hair with her fingers and moaned at his gentle kiss. He met her mouth again with a fiery kiss. She took charge again and flipped them over. She ran her hands down his torso and made her way to his boxers again. Sheridan relieved Luis of his final article of clothing and met his eyes and looked deeply into them. She lowered herself to kiss him and Luis flipped her back over and the two began making wild and passionate love.
I remember the first time I held you all night long We're still here now but where have all the years gone Holding you this way tonight It's easy to see why All this time We held on To each other We knew we had to be strong All this time Through the tears and the laughter It's still forever after All this time Sheridan lay wrapped in Luis's arms and had her head resting on his chest. "So, are you sorry that we went to our dinner first?" She teased. She felt his embrace get tighter. "Are you kidding? That was WELL worth the wait! I didn't think it was possible for me to love you anymore than I already did, but I think tonight proved that my love for you grows each and everyday." Sheridan interlocked her fingers with his and brought his hand to her mouth and kissed it. "I love you more than anything in this entire universe. Happy Anniversary, Luis." "Happy Anniversary." The two lay wrapped in each other's embrace and drifted to sleep. In this fast movin' world Love is made and just thrown away But we've always kept the promises that we made Who would've thought you and me Would still be here where we said we would be All this time We held on To each other We knew we had to be strong All this time Through the tears and the laughter It's still forever after All this time It's still forever after All this time
Nine months later Luis rushed to the hospital when he heard the news. Sheridan water had broken and she was in labor. He was at her side the whole time as she gave birth to their daughter, Hannah. Sheridan was holding the baby in her arms when Luis came in. "Hey, how are my girls?" She looked up and smiled at Luis. "We are great!" Luis walked over to Sheridan and the baby. He stared in wonderment at the two of them and felt tears forming in his eyes. He was so happy to see their perfect baby lying in Sheridan's arms. Sheridan looked up at Luis and noticed his tears. "Hey, what's wrong, sweetie?" "Nothing. I'm just amazed at how perfect she is. I always knew our love was amazing, but for it to produce something as beautiful as Hannah, well, that's miraculous." Sheridan felt her eyes well up with happy tears. Luis leaned down and kissed Sheridan and then he kissed his daughter. "Welcome to the world, Hannah." "I love you, Luis." "I love you, too. Forever and always." He kissed Sheridan again and they continued to sit in the hospital room together that day as a family.

THE END