Always There For You

Chapter 1: Missing You

As Sheridan sat down in her seat on the airplane, she began to open up her purse and search for some tissue. As she did she murmured to herself, "I can't wait to start my life again in Paris! Once I get there, I can start getting over Luis!" Sheridan shuffled through her bag even harder, "Oh! I could I let myself be fooled by such an idiot!" Just then, she pulled out the compact that Luis had given her!

FLASHBACK

"I tried to pick out one that looked exactly like the one i broke! this was the closest one," said Luis! Sheridan looked up at Luis and starred into his eyes! Her eyes beaming with happiness! "It's... it's perfect, Luis! Thank you!" Luis smiled at Sheridan, "My pleasure."

**REALITY**

Sheridan eyes began to well up with tears! She threw the compact back in her purse and sat back to wait for the plane to leave! She looked out the window at Harmony! She admitted to herself that she was going to miss this place... a lot! She was going to miss Theresa, Ethan, Gwen, Hank, everyone! She also really loved the town! I had been so good to her and the kids at the Youth Center had been so caring to her! She was going to miss them, but most of all, she was going to miss Luis! Luis had been Sheridan's every thought since their date at the Lobster shack! Although Sheridan thinks that Luis is using her, she still is going to miss him like crazy! She suddenly saw Luis standing in the airport window, starring at her! They made eye contact, but Sheridan quickly turned away. A few tears ran down her face as she remembered the times that she had shared with Luis! Like the first time they met... Sheridan ran into Luis's police car and they got into an argument!... then, there was the time when Luis accidentally kissed Sheridan!... the time Luis healed Luis's wounds from her "help" with a muggler...then, the time when they went to Santa Fe, Luis and Sheridan see each other in towels!... and the time when Luis saved Sheridan from drowning and he tended to her!... when Luis saved Sheridan on New Year's Eve!... their first date at the lobster shack... Luis saved Sheridan from almost falling through the ice on Valentine's Day... their first kiss! Sheridan smiled while thinking about it, but quickly frowned and starred out the window at Luis! "I am going to forget about you, Luis!"

In the airport, a few tears run down Luis's face as he looks at Sheridan! He notices that Sheridan is crying as well! He remembered all of the good times they have shared with each other! When Luis makes eye contact with Luis, he turns away and wipes away his tears! Luis looks out the window again and sees that the plane is about to leave! Ther tears weree coming down faster now! The plane began to run down the runway and Luis watched in agony as he plane went faster and faster! Sheridan and Luis were both thinking about each other and just as the plane was about to take off, Sheridan whispered, "Goodbye Luis" and Luis whispered, "Good-bye Sheridan." As soon as the plane left the ground, Luis broke down in tears! He missed her already! He watched in pain as the plane slowly disappeared into the horizon with the love of his life on board! The plane finally disappeared in the distance and Luis whispered to himself, "I love you, Sheridan! I will always love you!"

Chapter 2: How Do I Live Without You

At the Lopez-Fitzgerald house, Pilar was in the kitchen making dinner! Suddenly, Theresa rushed in! "Mama! Mama!" Pilar turned to Theresa, "What's wrong Therisita?" Theresa had a look of fear in her eyes! It was almost like she had seen someone die or there was a fire in the house! She seemed as though she were about to cry, but she didn't! She just stood there in shock and said, "I heard that Sheridan was going back to Paris! Is it true?" Pilar nodded, "Yes, she is!" Theresa looked even more shocked! "But how? Why? She loved it here in Harmony! How could she leave?" Pilar got back to making dinner, but continued to talk to her daughter, "Well, she just felt like she didn't belong here, I guess." Theresa paced around the table! "Oh! Luis must be heartbroken." Pilar turned around to face Theresa again and said, "Well, Luis went off to the airport to try and stop Sheridan," before continuing cooking! Theresa walked over to her mother and put her hand on Pilar's back, "Did he stop her?" Pilar said, "I don't know, Therisita! I haven't heard from him since, but..." Pilar put down the spice bottles she had in her hands and looked at her watch before she continued, "if he didn't stop her yet, she is on the way to Paris!" On the plane to Paris, Sheridan couldn't get her mind off of Luis! She had fallen for him and he had led her on (or so she thought). She slowly cried as she stared out the window at the beautiful sea below them! Suddenly, she had a flashback of Christmas...

**FLASHBACK**

It was Christmas and Sheridan was at Luis's house, giving him some slides of Spain for a present! Luis picked up one of the slides and looked at it through the light. He said, "Oh, wow! This is incredible!" Sheridan saw what he was looking at. "Oh! That's Costa Marbella! I took this picture at the bay at sunset!" Luis starred at Sheridan! "You know, if you look closely enough, you can almost see the light dancing on the water! Isn't it beautiful?" Luis starred at Sheridan and said, "Yeah, it is!"

**REALITY**

"I should have never let myself get involved with Luis, " Sheridan thought, "I am tired of getting my heart broken!" Slowly, the expression on her face changed from sad to angry! "From now on, I will never let myself fall in love! I won't let myself get hurt anymore! If that's the way it must be, then so be it!" She looked around and saw that everyone on the plane was asleep! She sighed to herself. "I better get some sleep, too!" She pulled out a pillow and put in on the side of her seat, next to the window! She laid her head against it! She began to close her eyes, but then, she looked up at the beautiful full moon and thought of Luis! Luis was under to same moon, driving home! Tears were in his eyes! He tried to hold back his tears so that his mother wouldn't notice, but he wasn't being too successful! He sighed and looked out the window at the moon! He remembered a conversation he once had with Hank.

**FLASHBACK**

Hank and Luis are talking about Sheridan in the Youth Center locker room as Hank gets ready for his date with Sheridan! Hank said, "Listen! I'm talking to you, not as your competition, but as your best buddy and Sheridan's friend! And if you know in your heart that this can't work out, and you yourself have said that you could never be Mr. Sheridan Crane, don't lead her on, Luis. Don't hurt Sheridan!"

**REALITY**

Luis said to himself, "What have I done? It's all my fault! I broke Sheridan's heart and know I'll never see her again! Great going, Luis! You've destroyed everything!" Luis pulled into his driveway! He decided that all he needed was a good night sleep! Pilar, Theresa, and Miguel were just about to sit down for dinner when Luis walked in! Theresa went straight to his brother, "Luis! Did you stop her? Did you stop Sheridan form leaving?" Luis felt the tears well up in his eyes, but he held them back as best as he could! "No..." he manages to get out, "She's gone!" As look of disappointment and regret washed over Theresa's face! Seeing his sister hurting only made Luis feel worse! His family meant the world to him and he felt awful that he made them feel sad! Pilar said, "Luis! We're about to have dinner! Won't you sit down?" Luis started to his bedroom door! "I'm not hungry!" Pilar to stop him, but Luis shut his door before she could say anything! As Luis shut the door, he pulled off his shirt (YEAH!!!) and fell onto his stomach on the bed! He squeezed the pillow tightly and thought about Sheridan! Luis had no idea what he had done, but whatever he did had hurt Sheridan really badly! Luis was trying hard not to get upset, but he missed Sheridan so much! He missed her beautiful eyes... those eyes that looked like stars in the sky! And he missed her smile... her smile was so sweet, it made his heart melt every time. He missed her blonde hair... the hair that was the color of sunshine and smelled like roses! He missed holder her tightly to him as they danced the tango or when they needed comfort! But most of all, he missed how kind she was to everyone... she had always been so nice to all the kids at the youth center and was so unlike her father and Jullian! All of the feelings and emotions that he had for Sheridan gathered up together instantly! They were like a bomb inside of him waiting to explode! He slutched the pillow to his chest, buried his face into it, and cried!

To Be Continued...

Chapter 3: I'll Be There

As Luis lay there in his bed, he couldn't stop thinking about Sheridan! Tears came flooding down his face while thinking about her. He tried to hold back his feelings, but it was no use. He missed Sheridan so much, it was impossible to give up on her. The door opened! It was Pilar. She walked to his bed with some soup. "Luis. I brought you some dinner." Luis tried his best to hold back the tears. "I'm not hungry, Mama. Thanks anyway." Luis couldn't hide his pain from Pilar. She saw right through him. She sat down the soup and sat on his bed. "Luis. I know that it must be pretty hard for you that Sheridan left." Luis nodded, "Yeah! It's killing me. Every second I am apart from her is a second too long. When I'm around her, I... I get a strange feeling inside of me, like... like we were meant to be or something." Pilar took Luis's hand. "It's love, Luis! You're in love with Sheridan Crane." Luis smiled up at her. "Yes, I am, Mama. I love her and I miss her so much!" For a brief moment, Luis seemed happy, but it soon changed. "I though everything was going great, but now she is mad at me and she's gone." Pilar hugged Luis. "I'm sorry, Luis, but maybe it's for the best." Luis tried to understand Pilar. "Yeah. Maybe you're right." Pilar smiled, "Well... goodnight Luis." She closed the door and Luis turned in his bed. He remembered a long time ago when he had a conversation with Hank about not letting the right woman get away (i don't remember the lines.). He jumped up and said to himself, "I have to go after her!" In Paris, Roger and Pierre checked into a hotel. They got a key to their room... they didn't know it, but it was the room that was the connecting one to Sheridan's. Pierre and Roger entered their room and Pierre said, "So, how do we find this Sheridan, Roger?" Roger said, "Don't worry. We will find her soon, and when we do, we will eliminate her, for good."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 4: Coming For You

In Harmony, Luis was rushing around his room, getting dressed. He wanted to look his best for Sheridan when he found her. He knew that Sheridan was mad at him, but he wasn't about to give up on her. He cared about her so much and he wasn't going to let her get away. He was going to find her! Luis started to day-dream.

**DREAM**

In Paris, Luis knocks on the door of Sheridan's room. She comes out and smiles, "Oh, Luis! I am so glad you are here." Luis gives a small, confused smile. "Why?" Sheridan took another step towards Luis. "I realized that you weren't really useing me. I realized that you really do care about me, for me." They gazed into each other's eyes. Luis gave a huge smile, "Sheridan. I have been meaning to tell you something." Sheridan asked, "What is it?" Luis put his arms around her waist. His lips were inches from hers. "I love you," he said. Sheridan smiled and said, "Oh, Luis! I love you, too." Luis was so happy to hear her that, he wrapped his arms tightly around her and kissed her intensely! Sheridan put her arms around Luis's neck and Luis had one hand in her beautiful sun-shine hair. The kiss seemed to last forever until he came back to reality.

**REALITY**

It took Luis a moment to realize that it was just a dream, but he would do everything in his power to make it come true. He had to find out why Sheridan was upset with him. He threw a bunch of clothes in a small bag, grabbed his wallet, and ran out of his room! He didn't see his mother making herself some cocoa. Luis almost touched the front door knob when his mother said, "Luis?" Luis turned around and saw his mother. Pilar walked towards him. "Where are you going?" Luis hesitated for a moment. He knew that his mother didn't want him to get involved with a Crane, but he also knew that Pilar really loved Sheridan. He answered, "I'm going to Paris to find Sheridan." Luis tried to open the door, but Pilar stopped him. "You what?" Luis said, "Mama! I have to go after her. I really care about her and I won't let her get away from me." Pilar shook her head, "Luis. You can't get involved with Sheridan. It is very dangerous." Luis said, "I don't care, Mama. I have fallen in love with Sheridan Crane and I can't let her slip away." With that, Luis headed out of the door and to the airport! Pilar went back into the living room and sat on the couch as she talked to herself. "Oh. I fear for you, Luis. Having a realationship with Sheridan could lead to a disaster.

In Paris, Roger and Pierre were trying to figure out where they could find Sheridan. They did not now that Sheridan was in their connecting room. Roger sat on the couch thinking. "We have to find Sheridan and kill her before it is too late." Pierre said, "But where can we look." Roger shook his head, "I don't know, but I have a strong feeling that she is closer than we think." In the next room, Sheridan was getting ready for bed! She curled up in her soft, warm bed. She tried to get her mind off Luis all day, but with no luck. Everything she saw reminded her of him. The stars were like his eyes, the sun was like his face, the sound of the ocean was like him comforting her and rocking her to sleep. Sheridan started to feel like she would never be able to forget Luis, but she had to. "I'll be okay... somehow. I will get through this. I don't need Luis in my life!" Suddenly, a chill ran down her spine! She felt an overwealming sense of danger nearby. She shook it off and went to sleep.

Luis was on the plane to go to Paris. The rest of the people were boarding and he couldn't wait to see Sheridan again, but what would he do when he saw her. He was so confused. He said to himself, "I'll know what to do when I get there. I have to find Sheridan and get her back." He starred out the window at the starry sky! The stars reminded him of Sheridan because it was like looking deep into her eyes. But her eyes were more beautiful than any star. There was nothing to compare it to. It was like, stars, the ocean, the sun, the moon, the snow, fire, and the rain, all put together and converted into beautiful blue eyes. He could stare into those eyes forever. He missed those eyes! He couldn't wait to look into them again. He said to himself, "I'm coming for you, Sheridan! I'll find you and we will be together again. This time, I will never let you go again."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 5: Love Will Find A Way

At the Lopez-Fitzgerald house, Theresa woke up and she walked into the kitchen to meet her mother. She said, "Hi, Mama." Pilar said, "Hello, Therisita. What are you doing up so early?" Theresa said, "I couldn't sleep. I was hoping I could talk to Luis about something before he leaves in the morning. Where is he?" Pilar said, "Luis is going after Sheridan." Theresa's eyes lit up. "He is!" Pilar said, "Yes." in a very sad tone. Theresa noticed it, "Mama! You don't look pleased with that. I mean... you've always said that Sheridan was a great girl." Pilar said, "Yes, she is, but if Luis gets involved with the Cranes, it could only lead to disaster." Theresa was going to say that nothing bad could come out of that, but it could only lead to another topic about Ethan and she didn't want to talk about that right now. "Well, I hope that Sheridan and Luis end up together." Luis was on the plane to Paris, sleeping. There were only a few hours left before he landed in Paris. He was dreaming... about Sheridan... and their wedding...

**DREAM**

Luis was standing next to Hank in a tux. Everyone in the church was dressed up nicely for the wedding. Luis thought to himself, "I can't believe it. This is actually happening! We are getting married!" Luis couldn't seem to get the smile off of his face. He was so in love with Sheridan and now, she was going to be his forever. Suddenly, the music started. Everyone turned around. Luis grew excited. Then, Sheridan stepped out from the darkness to the beginning of the isle. Her wedding dress sparkled and glowed. Her eyes and her smile beamed with happiness. Luis stared at her and thought, "Wow! She's so beautiful! What am I saying... she is always beautiful! She is so... wonderful!" Sheridan stepped down the isle. When she got to the end, she took Luis's hand! They stared into each other's eyes. Luis saw that Sheridan had shed a few tears. He reached out his hand and wiped them away. Luis made his own vows for Sheridan. He cleared his throat. "Sheridan! I remember the first day I met you. It was the most important moment of my life... You were speeding in your car and you ran into mine!" The crowd laughed and Luis continued, "After that, I remember that we couldn't stand to be near each other, but then, I came to realize that... you were the one for me." More tears started to fall from Sheridan's eyes. Luis smiled, "Sheridan. You are the most wonderful woman that I have ever met. You are sweet, kind, beautiful, and amazing. I love every part of you and I want to spend my life with you. I promise that from this day forward, I will cherish you, support you, protect you, help you, and love you, no matter what, for the rest of my life." Luis took out a beautiful gold ring and he took Sheridan's hand. "With this ring, I wed thee... Mrs Sheridan Lopez-Fitzgerald!" Luis placed the ring on her finger. Tears came flooding out of Sheridan's eyes. Now, it was Sheridan's turn to say her own vows. "Luis. So much has changed for us in these past few months. When we first met, we couldn't stand each other, but then, we realized how much we loved one another. And even with all of the things that came between us, we still managed to get through them. Nothing can stand in the way of our love. I want to spend every day with you for the rest of my life. With this ring, I wed thee." Sheridan slipped a ring on Luis's finger. Now, both Luis and Sheridan were crying with happiness. The priest said, "We the power invested within me, I now pronounce you, husband and wife." Luis cupped his wife's face in his hands and kissed her passionately! Everyone cheered.

**REALITY**

Luis woke up and realized that he was still on the plane. It was all a dream. He was a little disappointed by it, but he was determined to make it come true. Luis looked up of the window and said, "I'm coming to find you, Sheridan. Now, I just have to figure out where you are. Paris is such a big place. How am I going to find you?" Luis thought for a moment and said, "Somehow, I'll find her. Love will lead the way to her." In Paris, Sheridan was tossing and turning in her sleep. She was having a dream.

**DREAM**

Sheridan was asleep in the room. Suddenly, Luis came in and sat on the edge of her bed. He shook her gently and she woke up. She stared into his eyes. "Luis? What are you doing here?" Luis said, "I had to come after you! I couldn't let you get away." Sheridan looked confused. "Get away?" Luis said, "Sheridan. When you left for Paris, I... I realized that, I have fallen madly in love with you." Sheridan was both happy and confused. "You are?" Luis said, "Yes! And I realize..." Luis moved closer to Sheridan so that they were inches apart from each other and closing. "That I can't live without you." Luis suddenly kissed Sheridan more passionately than any kiss in the world. Sheridan put her arms around him and kissed him back. She felt like she was in heaven.

**REALITY**

Sheridan woke up and realized that it was a dream. She sighed to herself and thought, "You have to get over Luis, Sheridan. He has just been using you all along. You can't let him get to you like that." It was 8:00 when Luis arrived in Paris. As he walked outside, he saw many huge buildings and miraclulous things that he had never seen before. It was the most beautiful site he had ever seen, but he ignored it. Right now, the only thing that mattered was finding Sheridan. He didn't have a clue where to look, but he knew that his heart would tell him where to go. He walked up to a street map and looked at it. He took a deep breath and put his finger up to the map. He closed his eyes and looked deep into his soul. His finger started to move around the map until it stopped. When Luis opened his eyes, he looked at where his finger was pointing. Something inside of him told him that he was in the right direction. He called a cab and it toke him to the place. Luis got out and the cab drove away. He looked around and saw many hotels. He didn't know which one to look in first. He thought that he would walk around to think. Then, he stepped on something. He looked down at the thing he had stepped on. He reached down and picked it up. It was the compact that Luis had given her. Luis recognized it and looked up at the hotel where the compact was lying. He smiled and thought to himself. "I found you Sheridan." With that, he put the compact in his pocket and walked inside. He was going to find Sheridan. To Be Continued...

Chapter 6: Watching Over You!

After Luis put the compact in his pocket, he walked into the hotel to find Sheridan. He looked around. It was definitely a place for the Cranes. There was a huge lobby with a piano playing. There was sofas, people, music, and almost everything was colored in gold. It would definitely see why Sheridan would come here. Luis was admiring the place when suddenly, he spotted Sheridan. She didn't know it, but she was walking right towards him. Luis was thinking about running up to her and kissing her right there and then, but he knew that she would be mad. Luis got nervous and he dashed behind a near pillar. Sheridan walked past him without even seeing him. Luis looked out from behind the pillar. He stared at her. She was wearing a sparkling white dress with diamond earrings to match. Her hair and make-up were done perfectly and she stood out in the whole lobby. Luis thought, "Damn, she's beautiful." Luis stood there admiring her for a few minutes, than he snapped himself out of it. He had to remain focused. He had to get to Sheridan, but not now! Not here! He had to wait until she left the lobby until he could make his move. Until then, he would keep at extra close watch on her. Sheridan went around mingling with other people from the hotel. Luis was fully alert. Every time she made a move, Luis would change his position in order to keep an eye on her. Sometimes, he would try to move closer so that he could hear what they were saying. He finally got close enough to hear a conversation. A lady said, "So, Sheridan. I hear that you have come from Harmony in America. How did you like it?" Sheridan tried to smile through her pain, but Luis could see the sadness appear in Sheridan's eyes. Sheridan tried to cover it up. "Yeah. Yeah, it's a great place. It was lots of fun." The lady asked, "So, why did you leave?" Sheridan hesitated. She really had left because of Luis hurting her, but she didn't want to get into that right now. "Well, I just really missed Paris and I thought that I should come back." They both were quiet for a while and then, Sheridan said, "Would you excuse me for a minute?" "Sure," the lady replied. Sheridan walked around to get something from her room. At that moment, a man came up to Luis and tapped him on the shoulder. Luis took his eyes off of Sheridan and turned around. The man said, "So, are you going to talk to her or not?" Luis looked confused. The man said, "Sheridan Crane! You've been eyeing her forever now and you haven't even said a word." Luis said, "Well, I..." Luis thought for a moment. "Wait a minute... you know Sheridan?" The man answered, "Everyone knows Sheridan. She is a really nice girl. She is around here all the time." Luis said, "Well, she is a sweet girl." The man said, "Yeah, she is. And very gullible too." At that sentence, Luis sensed something fishy about that man. He shook it off and introduced and shook hands with the man. "I'm Luis." The man shook back. "I'm Dean Luc!" (Let's pretend here that Dean Luc is still alive.) Luis's mouth dropped open. "What?" "Dean Luc." he said. Luis suddenly left a fire burst inside of him. 'So, you're the bastard who hurt Sheridan.' he thought. Luis said, "You... you're the..." Dean Luc said, "Yes, yes! I'm Sheridan's old boyfriend." Dean Luc had an evil smile that just made Luis want to tear his head off right then and there. Dean Luc motioned Luis over to a couch. Luis sat down. Dean Luc said, "I can tell that Sheridan told you about me." Luis nodded as he continued, "After she left Paris, I never saw her again. She thinks that I am dead, so, I thought I should stay away from her now. Too bad I didn't get what I wanted." Luis left so sorry for Sheridan. He asked, "Tell me honestly, Dean Luc! Did you ever love Sheridan for who she is, not her money?" Dean Luc laughed and Luis felt fire burning in his heart. Dean Luc said, "No way! The only reason I was with her was so I could use her to get money from her family. She was so gullible that she would believe anything." Everytime Dean Luc bagged on Sheridan, Luis felt the anger rising inside of him, waiting to explode. Dean Luc laughed, "And to tell you the truth, she was really good in bed." Dean Luc laughed gleefully. As soon as Luis heard that sentence, it had been too much. He looked over at Dean Luc with angry eyes and said, "You... are such... a bastard." Dean Luc's smile faded and he stared at Luis. "What?" Without a word, Luis got up and punched Dean Luc in the face. He fell onto the ground with a bloody nose. Other people in the room gasped. Luis stood over Dean Luc. "Don't you ever, EVER, talk that way about her again! She is the most wonderful woman in the world, and damn you for hurting her like that!" With that, Luis walked out of the room in anger to look for Sheridan! As he turned around the corner, the bumped hard into someone. They both looked into each other's eyes. It was Sheridan!

To Be Continued...

Chapter 7: Cat's Out Of The Bag

As soon as Luis noticed it was Sheridan he ran into, he knew that he was really in for it! Sheridan's eyes got wide and her mouth dropped open! She looked like she was going to explode any second. After what seemed like an eternity, Sheridan yelled, "Luis? Wha..." Luis said, "Sheridan, um... I, uh... hi?" Sheridan said, "What the heck are you doing, Luis? Spying on me?" Luis took a step forward. "No, no! That's not it at all!" "Well, then what the heck are you doing?" Luis started, "Well, I..." Sheridan stopped him. "Ya know what? I don't even want to hear!" "Sheridan if you just..." "No, Luis! I will not let myself get hurt again by people like you! Stay away from me." With that, Sheridan stormed out of the room. Luis leaned against a wall and thought to himself. "Why is she so mad at me?"

Meanwhile, in Harmony, Pilar was at the house. She was talking to Theresa. "Therisita, you had better get to school!" Theresa asked, "Are you sure you'll be all right here by yourself, Mama?" Pilar nodded, "Yes! And I think I'll go up to the Crane Mansion early to get started." Theresa said, "Okay, Mama! Bye!" When Theresa left, Pilar headed up to the Crane Mansion. She let herself in. She walked by the library. Jullian accidentally left the door open. Pilar could hear him talking to Alistair. Pilar thought that she shouldn't eavesdrop, but then, she heard her son's name. She listened to them talking. Alistair said, "My plan worked perfectly! Now, Luis and Sheridan have no chance of being together." Jullian poured himself a brandy. "Yes, father! Your Luis imposter worked perfectly! You should see the imposter's mask. It looks exactly like Luis. That man could have fooled me!" Pilar knew all about the plan now. She knew that she had to tell Luis about it! She went to a phone in Ivy's room and looked around to make sure that no one was watching. She called Luis's cell phone number. Luis picked up. "Hello?" "Luis." "Mama? What's wrong?" Pilar said, "I know what happened! I know why Sheridan is mad at you!" Luis was completely alert. "What is it, Mama?" Pilar said, "Jullian and Alistair hired an imposter. The imposter was to be used as you. Sheridan heard the imposter say that you intended to use her!" Luis was so angry! "Those dirty bastards! How could they do that to a member of their own family?" Pilar said, "Listen, Luis! Be careful! You have to tell Sheridan about it! If you need help, call me at the Crane Mansion! Luis said, "Thanks Mama! You're a life saver." Luis hung up and sighed. "How am I going to get her to believe me? Or even talk to me for that matter?"

Sheridan was running back to her room when she ran into Roger and Pierre! Roger saw her and immediately recognized her, but he didn't say anything. "Oh, sorry madam." "It's okay," Sheridan said before running off again. Roger tugged Pierre. "It's Sheridan! That's the girl! She is in this hotel!" Pierre said, "But how do we get to her." Roger said, "Let's follow her and see where she goes." Roger and Pierre carefully followed Sheridan to where her room was. They went up to the third floor as they followed. "Same floor." murmured Pierre. They continued to follow until Sheridan turned into a small hallway. "Same hall," said Pierre. Sheridan went up to her door. She opened it and walked in before slamming the door behind her. Pierre and Roger walked out from their hiding spots and smiled to themselves. They looked at each other. Roger raised his hands in the air. "This is perfect! Sheridan is in our connecting room. Oh, this is too good to be true. Now, we won't have such a problem with finding her." Pierre asked, "How do we kill her?" Roger thought for a moment. "Well... we will unlock the connecting door. We will come in and take her hostage. We will see what she knows, and then, kill her." Pierre smiled at the plan! Roger reached in his pocket to feel his gun when he realized it wasn't there. "Pierre! Where is my gun?" Pierre said, "I don't have it!" Roger snapped his fingers. "I left it in the lobby. We will have to go get it." Roger and Pierre headed back down to the lobby when they ran into Luis. "Sorry, sir!" said Pierre. "No problem... um, listen. You wouldn't happen to see a beautiful woman with short, blond hair around here, did you?" Roger and Pierre looked at each other. It was obvious that this man knew Sheridan. Roger said, "No! But we will keep an eye out! Why are you looking for this woman? Are you a cop or something?" Luis said, "Actually, I am! But this woman is a very dear friend of mine and I need to find her!" Roger said, "Well, good luck!" Luis walked away. Pierre said, "Now what?" Roger said, "That man is looking for Sheridan, and he is a cop! We will have to be very careful with taking care of Sheridan. We don't want to get involved with the police!" Pierre smiled, "After tonight, Sheridan will be gone for good! No one can ever save her!"

To Be Continued...

Chapter 8: Dangerous Minds

Luis decided that he would get a room in the hotel until he found out what to do about Sheridan. He rented a room on the same floor as Sheridan. Luis got a room that was about seven rooms away from Sheridan's. Luis put his stuff down in the hotel. A man who worked there was helping to carry the stuff in. Luis looked around. The room was very big. It had a beautiful wooden frame bed, the walls looked like gold, and there were flower vases in every corner. Luis thought, "How am I ever going to afford this place?" The man said, "Enjoy your stay, sir." When the man left the room, Luis thought to himself for a moment and then smiled. "It will all be worth it once Sheridan and I are together." Luis was suddenly day dreaming about making love to Sheridan.

**DAYDREAM**

Sheridan and Luis were lying in each other's arms. Luis held her tightly against his chest and Sheridan was softly caressing his back. They were kissing passionately and wildly. When Sheridan took a deep breathe, Luis said, "I can't believe I didn't know from the start." Sheridan looked deep into Luis's eyes as he continued, "You are the most wonderful woman I have ever met, and I want you to be mine forever." Sheridan smiled, "Oh, Luis! I love you so much. I never want to let you go." Luis caressed Sheridan's chin with his fingers. "You won't have to," said Luis. They shared another passionate kiss and they started to make love to each other.

**REALITY**

When Luis snapped back, he realized that he was smiling into space. The first thing he saw was Sheridan. He looked around and noticed that he was outside in the hallway. He must have accidentally walked out there while daydreaming. Sheridan was right infront of him. For what seemed like the twentieth time, Sheridan yelled, "Luis!" Luis finally came back to his senses and said, "Sheridan?" Sheridan had a look or frustration and anger in her eyes. Luis was smiling inside. He thought that she looked so cute when she was angry. Sheridan said, "What are you doing here, Luis? I thought I told you to get lost." Although Luis cared for Sheridan, he was a little upset by that comment. "Well... isn't a guy aloud to stay in a hotel if he wants?" Sheridan said, "Yeah, but not the back-stabbing creeps!" Luis rolled his eyes. "Sheridan. Where is this coming from? Ya know... you never told me why you turned on me like that." "Oh, come off it Luis. I think that you know exactly what I am talking about." said Sheridan. Luis crossed his arms. "Sorry. Can't think of a thing." "Oh, very funny Luis. I am not as stupid as you make me out to be. I will not let myself get used by you. I don't need you in my life." Sheridan turned her back to him and crossed her arms. Luis slowly walked up behind her. "Oh, excuse me but... wasn't I the one who saved you in New Mexico, and New Years Eve, and Valentine's Day." Sheridan didn't say anything. Luis whispered in her ear, "I know that at least once, you cared for me!" For a brief moment, Sheridan became lost in the feeling of being that close to Luis. Him whispering in her ear, feeling his warm breathe on her neck, tingling when he grazed her skin accidentally, it was too much to bear for her. She quickly snapped back. She turned around and faced Luis. "Alright! Alright! I admit... I did have feelings for you." "I knew it," shouted Luis. "But... that was before I knew who you really were." finished Sheridan. Luis didn't know what to say, how could he convince this girl that he wasn't using her? That it was all Jullian and Alistair. If Luis told Sheridan about the imposter, she wouldn't believe him. She would just think that Luis was trying to turn her against her family. He had to have time to think about something to do. Sheridan said, "Okay, Luis! Since we keep on running into each other, I will make a deal with you." Luis and Sheridan starred deep into each other's eyes. Luis could see the hurt that she thought he had infected on her. He hated to see her in pain. It killed him! He just wanted to wrap his arms around her and hold her tightly and never let go. Sheridan said, "You stay clear away from me, and I will stay clear away from you. Okay?" Before Luis had a chance to respond, Sheridan turned around and ran to her room. Luis tried to catch her by her door, but she shut it in his face. Luis sighed in frustration. He slowly walked back to his room and thought, "What am I going to do? How can I convince Sheridan that I wasn't using her?"

Roger and Pierre were loading their gun to kill Sheridan. Pierre was pacing around the room. "When do we start our plan?" Roger said, "When we are sure that it is safe for us to go into action. There is a police man here who knows Sheridan. We have to be very careful about killing Sheridan, or that man will have us jailed." Pierre said, "What if he does find out about our plan?" Roger said, "Well, we will kill him too!" Sheridan was in her room, getting ready for bed. She talked to herself. "If Luis thinks that he can use me like that, he is so wrong. I will not let him do that to me." She got into a pare of sweat pants and a t-shirt. She climbed into bed and looked out at the window. There was a full moon and it was shining brightly in the sky. Sheridan stared at it blankly and found comfort. She smiled to herself thinking, "It will all be alright! Some how."

Luis was sitting in bed, starring at the same moon. The moon was the one thing out of a thousand that mostly reminded him of Sheridan. The moon glowed as brightly as Sheridan's eyes. It was as big and beautiful as her smile. But most of all, the moon was full of surprises. Everytime he looked at it, it had changed. It is always full of surprises and amazement... just like Sheridan. Luis smiled as he crawled into bed and turned off the lights. He started to fall asleep, with Sheridan on his mind.

Roger and Pierre heard the clock strike 9:00. That was the time that they were planning to take their plan into action. Everyone would be asleep. They looked at each other and smiled. Roger laughed his evil laugh, "Let's do it." Pierre picked up the gun and handed it to Roger. They went to the door that connected to Sheridan's room. They played around with the knob until the lock broke and it was open. Roger and Pierre quietly snuck into the living room. They suddenly heard something. Sheridan was coming into the kitchen. Roger and Pierre quietly hid. Sheridan walked out to the kitchen and began to open the refrigerator. She poured a glass of milk. She didn't notice Roger sneaking up behind her. Sheridan had her mind on Luis. She couldn't sleep because she couldn't stop thinking about him. She loved him, but she also hated him. Hated him for what he did to her, for hurting her. She didn't know what to think about him anymore. She didn't have to worry about that right now, because in a split second, a giant hand went over her mouth and the other put a gun to her chest. Sheridan didn't even have time to scream. Another man grabbed her around the waist so that she couldn't break free. Sheridan started to panic. She breathed heavily and tears started to come out from her eyes. She didn't deserve any of this. Hadn't she been through enough already? It seemed like everywhere she went, someone only wanted to destroy it. She would never be happy. And yet, all she could think about was Luis. She wished that he was there to rescue her. But he wasn't there to save her this time. It was over. She closed her eyes as the trigger went off...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 9: I Won't Let You Go!

Luis finally fell asleep in his room. It had been a long day for him and he needed to get rest so that he could think about how he was going to convince Sheridan that he wasn't using her. He had a dream about Sheridan...

**DREAM**

Luis appeared in a dark, cold room. He heard Sheridan screaming for him. "Luis! Help me!" Luis ran towards the screams, but he couldn't find her. Everytime she screamed, the screams came from the opposite way that Luis was running. After a while, Sheridan's screams started to fade. Luis was getting worried. Suddenly, he saw Sheridan lying on the floor. She was unconscious and was bleeding from the chest. Luis screamed, "SHERIDAN! NO!" Luis ran to her side. He took her in his arms and tried to wake her up. "Sheridan. Sheridan, please. You have to wake up! You can't leave me, Sheridan!Sheridan!"

**REALITY**

Luis jumped up when he awoke from his dream. He was breathing heavily! Something was not right. He felt an overwealming since of doom somewhere nearby. Normally, he would have ignored it, but this time, something inside him was really telling him that something terrible was happening. Luis immediately thought of Sheridan. He thought, "What if she's in trouble?" He jumped out of bed. "I should go check on her. Better safe than sorry." Luis put on his coat and went to check on Sheridan. He walked down the hallway and walked up to Sheridan's door. He was about to knock when he heard Sheridan scream right before the sound of a gunshot! Luis felt his heart sink to the floor. Sheridan was in trouble. "Sheridan!" he yelled. He tried to open the door. It was locked. He busted the door open. It was all dark. He turned on the lights and he couldn't believe what he saw...

Sheridan was lying on the floor unconscious in a puddle of blood. At that moment, Luis had never been more scared in his life. Sheridan could be dead. What would he do without her? His emotions went from sad to angry when he looked up and saw Roger standing there with a gun in his hand. Roger just stood there. Luis's eyes turned into fire. "You! You did this!" Roger tried to make a run for it, but Luis tackled him before he got to the door. Pierre ran out of the room. Luis was so angry at this man. He didn't know whether to tear his head off, or make him suffer in jail. All he new was that if he spent his time fighting with him and he arrested him, he would make detective, but Sheridan would be dead. If he let the man go, he wouldn't get detective, but Sheridan could still have a chance at life. He thought to himself while fighting with Roger. He didn't know who meant more to him... his family's future or Sheridan. He looked over at Sheridan dieing on the floor. He looked at her face and remembered all of the good times they had together. Saving her in New Mexico, dancing with her on New Year's Eve, looking into each other's eyes... he would give anything to look into those eyes again. He made up his mind. Luis let go of Roger and Roger was out of there in a second. Luis didn't have time to catch his breath. He immediately ran over to Sheridan and gentle took her in his arms. He was trying to stay calm, but it was so hard. He whispered to her, "It's okay, Sheridan! You're gonna make it! I won't let you go!" Luis took out his cell phone and called an ambulance. After he hung up, he wrapped a cloth around Sheridan's waist staunch the flow of blood. He picked her up into his arms. He looked at her face. She was so beautiful. Luis's heat started to race. If he ever lost Sheridan, he would die. Luis carried Sheridan outside to where an ambulance was waiting. Sheridan was put on a stretcher and put into the ambulance. Luis jumped in with her. Sheridan was put on life support and she was loosing blood fast. Luis was so frightened. He held Sheridan's hand and prayed that she would be okay. "Please Sheridan! You have to make it! You have to!" When they got to the hospital, the doctors took Sheridan away from Luis. Luis tried to follow, but some doctors pulled him back. As soon as his hand left Sheridan's, a chill went down his spine. He watched in agony as the doctors took Sheridan away from him. He felt so helpless. He was so worried about loosing Sheridan. He went to the waiting room and sat on the couch. He was so worried about Sheridan, he couldn't even focus. A few tears dropped down his cheek. He whispered to himself, "I love you, Sheridan!"

To Be Continued...

Chapter 10: I'm Your Angel!br>
As Luis sat in the waiting room, he couldn't stop thinking about Sheridan. He couldn't forget the feeling he got when he saw her lying on the floor in a pool of blood. He felt so helpless. What if the doctors couldn't save her? What if she died? He would never be able to go on without her. What killed Luis the most was that in Sheridan's life, she never actually got to know that someone truly loved her. All of the men in her life had been using her. They didn't really care for her. Now, Sheridan thinks that he was using her, and she doesn't know that he truly loves her. Not for her money or her power, but for what a sweet, caring, wonderful person she is. Sheridan had to know that Luis loves her. Luis was so caught up in his thoughts, that he didn't notice a nurse standing infront of him. She said, "Sir, sir?" Luis asked, "Yes? Is Sheridan going to be okay?" The nurse said, "We don't know yet. The doctors will tell you shortly." Luis couldn't stand it anymore. He had to see Sheridan, whether she was awake or not. Luis asked, "Can I see her?" "Sure you can." Luis said, "Thanks. I just need to call her family to tell them and I will be right there." Luis picked up the phone and dialed the Crane's number. Ethan answered the phone. "Hello?" "Ethan? It's Luis." Ethan was disgusted, "Oh. Luis, what do you want?" Luis said, "Ethan. Something bad has happened." Ethan yelled, "If you think that I am going to help you after what you did to Sheridan, you are wrong!" Luis said, "Something awful has happened to Sheridan!" Ethan stopped yelling. He stood in silence for a while and then yelled, "What did you do to my aunt?" Luis said, "I didn't do anything." Ethan said, "That's it. I'm coming over." Ethan hung up. Luis knew that he was in for a big fight with Ethan. Ethan didn't know about the imposter. He probably wouldn't believe him anyway. Luis hung up the phone and the nurse led him to Sheridan's room. Before they entered the room, Luis tried to make himself calm before looking at Sheridan. The door opened. As soon as Luis saw Sheridan lying in the hospital bed, tears sprung into his eyes. The nurse left the room and Luis rushed to Sheridan's side. Tears came flooding out of his eyes. He tried to hold them back, but it was so painful to see her like this. Luis sat on the edge of her bed and took her hand. A chill went down his spine as he touched her. He brought her hand up to his lips and he kissed it. The tears were coming down faster. Luis rubbed Sheridan's hand on his cheek and he stared at her with eyes full of worry and pain. Sheridan was on life-support because the gunshot had damaged her lungs. Luis looked up at the heart monitor. It was beating normally. Luis sighed with relief. As long as Sheridan was all right, he was going to be all right. Luis remembered a time when they were in New Mexico...

**FLASHBACK**

They are at Martin's fishing cabin. Sheridan is sick and delusional. Luis is taking care of her. Luis says, "You have to get some rest." Sheridan said, "No, I'm afraid." Luis looked confused. "Afraid? Of what?" Sheridan replied, "I'm afraid that if I close my eyes, you'll disappear and break my heart." Luis said, "What are you talking about? I'm not going anyway." "Take my hand." said Sheridan. Luis held Sheridan's hand. Sheridan said, "Promise me, that you won't leave me." Luis smiled and said, "I promise."

**REALITY**

Luis remembered that day like it was yesterday. That conversation happened a few second before Sheridan kissed him. Luis remembered that kiss. Her lips were so soft and they tasted like honey and sugar. The feeling of Sheridan's lips touching his made him tingly inside. Now, he stared down at an unconscious Sheridan. If Sheridan died, he would never be able to kiss those lips again. lf Sheridan died, he would never get to look into her beautiful eyes again. He wouldn't be able to see her wonderful smile, hear her voice, or hold her in his arms. Tears came streaming down Luis's cheeks. He couldn't stand it anymore. He needed to hold her. He carefully scooted into the bed next to Sheridan. He took her in his arms and pressed her tightly against his chest. He looked at her face. She looked so peaceful. He stroked her hair back and grazed his finger up and down her cheek. Ethan arrived at the hospital many hours later. By the time he got there, Sheridan was getting better and was taken off of life-support, which made Luis feel better. Luis was sitting by Sheridan's side and Ethan burst into the room. It startled Luis and he turned around to meet Ethan's angry eyes. Ethan walked up to him and yelled, "What did you do to Sheridan?" Luis stood up. "I told you, I didn't do anything to Sheridan. She was shot!" Ethan said, "Well, normally, I would believe you, but after what you did to Sheridan, I don't even want to look at you anymore." Luis knew what he was talking about. "That is where you're wrong, Ethan. I never used Sheridan. It was all just a setup that was planned by Jullian and Alistair." Ethan was already at Sheridan's side. He looked up at Luis. "So, once again, you're blaming the Cranes for everything." Luis rolled his eyes. "Okay, I don't blame the Cranes for everything, but I happen to know for a fact, that your father set this whole thing up." Ethan and Luis looked as though they might rip each other's heads off. Ethan said, "Never, ever, come near my aunt again. Do you understand?" "No! I don't! I can't do that," said Luis. Ethan stepped up to Luis. "Oh, I'm not asking you. I'm telling you." Luis said, "You don' scare me." A nurse came into the room and said, "Sorry, but visiting hours are over. You will have to come back another time." Luis and Ethan looked somewhat ashamed and embarrassed. They walked out of the room and Luis took out his cellphone. Ethan asked, "What are you doing?" Luis said, "I am calling Pilar to prove to you that I am not using Sheridan." Luis contacted Pilar and she told Ethan about the imposter plan that Jullian and Alistair set up. After he hung up, Ethan blushed. "Sorry, Luis! I didn't know." Luis nodded. "It's alright, Ethan. I know that you really care about Sheridan." Ethan said, "And now, I know that you do too. Luis, thanks for being here for my aunt. I know that you can always protect her." Luis remembered when he saw the man who shot Sheridan. Luis thought to himself. "God help me. I'll find that man and I will destroy him." Just outside of the hospital, a car parked in the parking lot. The car was turned off. The doors opened, and out stepped two French men!...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 11: The Good, The Bad, and the Killers!

The two men who had stepped out of the car were wearing hoods over their heads. At the same time, they took them off to reveal Roger and Pierre. They looked at each other and smiled. Pierre said, "So, how are we going to get past Sheridan's little cop friend? He has already seen our faces and he will protect her." Roger said, "Well, that is why we have these hoods. We will sneak past that man while he is not looking and we will kill Sheridan." Pierre asked, "But, how are we going to get away with shooting her. Everyone will hear us." Roger said, "Who said anything about shooting? I will kill Sheridan with my bear hands." "How?" asked Pierre. "You will see." said Roger pulling him along. When they got up to the front door, they put their hoods on and walked in.

Luis and Ethan were sitting in the waiting room. For the first time ever, Ethan and Luis were having a real conversation. Luis started to think that maybe Ethan wasn't so bad after all. Ethan finally stood up and said, "Well, since we are not allowed to see Sheridan anymore, I am going to rent a room in a hotel. You wanna come?" Luis said, "No thanks. It's kind of hard for me to leave with Sheridan being here." Ethan smiled. It was obvious that Luis really cared about her. Ethan said good-bye and left. Luis walked over to Sheridan's window and stared in at her. She looked so peaceful and calm. He couldn't wait to here her voice again. Luis walked around in the hallways.

Roger and Pierre snuck by Luis just as they had planned. They made it to Sheridan's room and snuck in without anyone noticing. They forgot to close the door. They walked over to a sleeping Sheridan. They smiled evilly. Roger said, "This will be easier than I thought." He took his hand and slowly lead it up to Sheridan's face. In one quick moment, he grabbed Sheridan's neck and started to choke her to death. Pierre and Roger watched with glee as they started to kill Sheridan. Luis was just outside of Sheridan's room. He was walking outside in the hallway. He looked in the window and started to panic. He saw two men hovering over her. One of them choking her to death. Pierre turned around and saw Luis staring at them. Luis and Pierre both made a run for the door. Pierre got there first and then, he shut the door and locked it. Luis banged on the door and yelled with all his might. They were trying to kill Sheridan, and there was nothing he could do. She was helpless and he couldn't get in. He tried to bust open the door, but it wouldn't work. He starred through the window and saw Pierre choking Sheridan as well. Luis looked in shook as Sheridan began to die. Tears rushed to his eyes. If he didn't get in there fast, he would loose Sheridan for sure. Then, he looked at the window and he got an idea. He took out his gun and shot the window. The glass shattered everywhere. Some pieces of glass cut his face, but he didn't worry about that. As soon as the window was shattered, he ran through the window and tackled the men. He punched them and rolled them off the bed! The security was already on it's way. Luis punched them over, but it was hard. Everytime he tackled one of them, the other went in to kill Sheridan. Luis finally fell on top of Sheridan and shielded her head with his arms. Roger and Pierre were about to run out as the security came up and grabbed them. They immediately put handcuffs on them and arrested them. A shaking Luis was still wrapped tightly around Sheridan, afraid to let go. A few tears shed from his eyes. He finally felt her breathing. He sighed with relief, but he didn't let go of her. Once Roger and Pierre were taken away, the doctors tried to pull Luis away, but he held tightly to her. So, they just left him there. Luis held on to Sheridan for a long time, tears flooding from his eyes. He was so afraid that he could have lost her. If he hadn't have come in when he did, she would be dead! Luis let go of Sheridan and sat up beside her. He took her hand and stroked her hair gently and kissed her on the forehead. He leaned down and rubbed his cheek to hers. He softly whispered to her,"I love you, Sheridan." Suddenly, he felt Sheridan's hand move...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 12: I Love You!

Luis felt Sheridan's hand tighten around his own! In a way, he was frightened but in another way, he was so happy. He just stared there, nestled against her cheek for a few seconds. Then, he pulled back and looked at Sheridan. There she was... she was awake. Luis looked into her eyes. They looked even more beautiful than he remembered. She smiled up at him and Luis felt his heart skip a beat. They stared at each other in silence for a long time until Sheridan whispered, "Luis." Luis was so happy to hear her voice that he threw his arms around her and began to cry. He cried, "Oh Sheridan! I was so scared that I had lost you. I don't know what I'd do if anything happened." Sheridan wrapped her arms around him as well. She was even more confused now. Here Luis was, holding her in his arms and crying, when a few weeks ago, she overheard him talking about using her. She didn't know what to think anymore. All she knew was that, she was not in a mood to fight. She felt so warm and safe in his eyes.She wanted to stay like that forever. Luis and Sheridan could feel each other's hearts beating against the other. It was like they were one person. Luis held Sheridan close to him and thanked god that she was okay. He was so happy to be holding her in his arms again. After what seemed like forever, he pulled back and stared into her eyes. "Sheridan. I have something to tell you." "What?" asked Sheridan. Luis cleared his throat and said, "I love you!" Sheridan and Luis stared at each other, shocked. Sheridan opened her mouth to speak when suddenly, the doctor came in. "Sheridan! She's awake." Luis was a little annoyed that the doctor ruined this precious moment, but he knew that it was her job. Luis turned around and nodded. The doctor came up to Sheridan and said, "I just got your test results back. If everything goes the way that I plan, you should be out of here within a couple of days. Sheridan smiled. "Wonderful," said Sheridan. Luis loved that look in her eyes. Her eyes look so big and happy. They were the most beautiful thing he had ever laid eyes on. Luis suddenly remembered... Ethan. He said, "Oh. I have to call Ethan to tell him that youre alright. He's staying in a hotel nearby." Luis started to get up, but Sheridan said, "Luis." Luis turned around to meet her beautiful eyes once more. Sheridan whispered, "Thank you." Luis smiled and rubbed his knuckles along the side of her cheek and walked towards the door. He called up Ethan and told him that Sheridan was awake. Ethan came rushing over. When he got there, he went straight to Luis. "How is she doing?" asked Ethan. Luis said, "The doctors say that she is doing fine." Ethan sighed, "Well, that's a relief. Am I allowed to see her?" Luis led Ethan to her room. Ethan run into the room and to Sheridan's side. Ethan said, "Sheridan. Are you alright?" Sheridan replied, "Yeah, I am. Thanks to Luis." Ethan could tell by the look in her eyes that she really had it bad for Luis. Sheridan said, "You know, I am really confused now. I mean... a few weeks ago, I heard Luis say that he was using me, but just a few minutes ago, he was crying and he said..." Ethan asked, "He said what?" Sheridan smiled lovingly, "He said, that he loves me!" Ethan smiled down at her. Ethan said, "He does, he does love you." Sheridan said, "Well, what about what I heard down at the wharf?" Ethan said, "It was all a set up. Sheridan, Jullian and Alistair set up an imposter to be Luis. He was the one who was saying that he used her." Sheridan eyes lit up with happiness. "Really?" "Really! Luis really cares about you, and I know that you do too." Then, Luis came in. "Ethan. Is it okay if I have a talk with Sheridan?" Ethan smiled at Luis and said, "Sure," as he left the room. Luis sat on the edge of Sheridan bed and took her hand and cleared his throat. "Okay, um, where were we?" Sheridan couldn't take it anymore. She jumped up, wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him passionately. Luis was so so SOOO happy to feel her lips against his own. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her tightly against his chest. They kissed for a long time, and then, they took a deep breathe. Sheridan pulled back a few inches from Luis's face and stared deeply into his eyes. "Oh, Luis. I am so SO sorry that I ever doubted you! Ethan told me all about the imposter and I am so sorry that I didn't believe you." Luis no longer cared about that. He just stared deeply into her eyes. Luis said, "Forget about it. Now, you need you're rest. You had better sleep." Luis began to get up, but Sheridan pulled him back. "Wait! Luis, can I ask you a favor?" Luis smiled, "Anything." Sheridan asked, "Can I just fall asleep in your arms? You make me feel so safe when I am lying in them." Luis felt his heart skip a beat. He smiled and climbed into the bed next to her. He wrapped his arms around her and held her tightly against him. Her back was into him. Luis buried his face in her hair. Sheridan turned slightly up and Luis got up to look into Sheridan's eyes. Sheridan looked into him deeply and said, "I love you!" Luis's heart melted. Just hearing her say that meant so much to him. He loved her so much. He said, "I love you, too!" They kissed passionately and Sheridan and Luis fell asleep in each other's arms. They were happy and safe, but they had no idea what adventure they were going to encounter very soon...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 13: Homeward Bound... almost!

Sheridan and Luis were sitting in the hospital room, starring in each other's eyes, when the doctor came in. "I have some good news, Sheridan!" He said. Sheridan's eyes lit up. She looked at Luis who looked just as excited as she was and then, she turned back to the doctor. "What is it?" "You are doing very well! You will be able to leave within the next hour." Sheridan and Luis jumped with excitement. "Oh, Luis! This is wonderful!" "The best," said Luis as he put his arms around her. The doctor said, "I have filled out your papers and you will be ready to leave soon." The doctor left the room. Sheridan put her arms around Luis's neck and kissed him passionately. Luis didn't want the kiss to end. He just wanted to stay there forever like this and kiss her and embrace her. Sheridan came up for air and she said, "I am so happy that I can finally leave this place." "So, am I," said Luis as he kissed her intensely. He put her arm around her waist and Sheridan's stomach tightened and her face flinched. Luis pulled his hand back quickly. "Damit! Did I just hurt her?" he thought to himself. Luis said, "Sheridan. I'm so sorry. Did, did I hurt you?" Sheridan couldn't help but laugh a little. He had a very scared and concerned look on him face, almost like she was going to day that very day. Luis said, "If you want, I... I can go get a doctor..." Sheridan said, "Luis! Luis, I'm fine." Luis sighed and laughed at himself. He couldn't help but be more than concerned for Sheridan. She meant everything to him. He would lay down his life for her. Nothing made him happier than knowing that she was safe and happy. Luis took Sheridan's hand, "I just want you to be okay." Sheridan felt her heart skip a beat. He was so caring, gentle, and kind to her. It was amazing what a wonderful guy he was. He was unlike any other men she had ever known. Some men were just too passionate, and the other's were just not passionate enough. Luis was passionate, but not too passionate, strong, but gentle, kind, but not such a goodie-goodie. He was perfect in everyway. She knows how people say that nobody is perfect, well... Luis was definitely perfect. No doubt about that. She looked into his eyes. "As long as I am with you, I will always be all right." Luis smiled flirtatiously, "That makes two of us."

An hour went by, and Sheridan was ready to leave the hospital. In that hour, Luis never ever left her side. He always held on to her, wherever she went. Even when she was changing, Luis was clinging on to her. Sheridan had to pry his arms off of her hips so that she could get her shirt on, but Luis just wrapped his arms around her chest and kissed her softly on the neck. Sheridan giggled at the way he acted. "Luis. If you keep this up, we are never going to get back to Harmony." Luis said, "I don't know if I can wait that long." "Well, you're gonna half too. We wouldn't want Jullian to find out. And don't worry..." She pressed the tip of her finger against his chin. "I'll repay you for all your hard work when we get back to Harmony." Luis felt his heart melt. Sheridan really had a way of turning him on. Luis couldn't resist that offer. "Well, then in that case, it's worth the wait." Sheridan smiled at Luis. Luis faced her. He reached in his pocket. "I have something for you!" He pulled out a beautiful silver necklace. It was a silver heart with glitter all over it. Sheridan's mouth dropped open in amazement. Luis put it around her neck. Sheridan looked at it. "Oh, it's beautiful!" Luis said, "Not half as beautiful as you!" Sheridan's heart melted. She kissed Luis and whispered, "Thank You!"

Sheridan and Luis felt the hospital to get onto the airplane. They had all of their stuff together. They board the plane and took their seats in coach. There were hardly any passengers on the plane. Luis felt a little bad about having Sheridan ride on coach. With all the money she had, she had probably ridden in coach all her life. Luis rubbed Sheridan's leg. "I hope that you don't mind riding on coach." Sheridan smiled. "It doesn't matter, as long as I am with you." Luis kissed her. All day, he couldn't stop kissing her. It was like the Sweet Tarts candy... you can never only have one and save the rest for later... you just have to have them all at once. Luis and Sheridan smiled at each other as the plane took off.

When they were in the air, Sheridan was reaching in her bag for something. The plane jolted a little and the necklace, that Luis gave her fell off of her neck. Sheridan reached down to get it, but the plane jolted again and the necklace slid to the back of the plane. "Oh, no! My necklace fell off! It slid to the back of the plane. I better go get it before someone steps on it." Sheridan unbuckled her seat belt and began to get up, but Luis grabbed her arm. "Are you sure you don't want to wait? I mean the plane has been bumping around a lot." said Luis. Sheridan said, "That is my most prized possession and I will not loose it. Don't worry, I'll be back in a second." Sheridan walked to the back of the plane to get the necklace. Just then, the plane shook tremendously. Some passengers on the plane screamed. Luis looked back for Sheridan to make sure that she was all right. Sheridan had stumbled a little, but she caught herself against the wall. Luis sighed with relief. Then, the plane shook even harder. Sheridan grabbed on to the wall to keep her balance. Luis was getting worried now. He yelled, "Sheridan! Get back here, NOW!" Sheridan was a little worried herself. She nodded and she let go of the wall and started to walk back towards police. Suddenly, a big shake threw her off her feet. She fell back and hit her head with a lot of force against the wall. She fell onto the ground, unconscious! Luis was very scared. "Sheridan!" he yelled as he quickly unbuckled his seat belt. He raced over to Sheridan on the floor and tried to wake her up. Then, everyone on the plane heard something explode and the plane began to nose dive. Luis had no time to get back to the seat with Sheridan, so he grabbed on to a pole in the back of the plane. He put Sheridan in-between him and the pole. He put his arms around her waist and around the pole. Both of them were pressed tightly against the pole. Everyone on the plane screamed as the plane began to fall down to the sea.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 14: Unscheduled Landing!

Everyone on the plane screamed with fear as the plane began to dive to the ground. Luis had Sheridan in-between him the pole. He held on to it as tightly as possible. One false move and both of them would fall. Suddenly, Sheridan began to wake up. She turned around and looked at Luis. "Luis, what's happening?" They heard something explode on the plane. "Hang on, Sheridan." cried Luis. Sheridan put her arms around Luis's waist and started to cry with fear. Luis looked at her. He could feel her shaking against his body. He said, "Shh, it's okay, Sheridan. We'll be all right." Then, the plane crashes. Sheridan screamed as the plane hit the ground and twisted in all directions. They had hit the ground with so much force, that Luis let go of the pole and flew off. Sheridan too was thrown back by the landing. Luis fell to the ground and he lay there silent. There was fear and shock in his eyes. At that moment, he thought that he was going to die. He thought that this was it, and he would never see Harmony again. He had never been more afraid in his life. He then thought of Sheridan. He felt so bad for her after ever she had gone through. She had just recently escaped death, and Luis had saved her life so many times before. All that mattered to him was that she was all right. The plane slowly stopped. The passengers stood still, afraid of what might happen next. The pilot came on a speaker and said, "Okay people! It's safe now. Everyone get into a single filled line and we can evacuate the plane." Everyone took a sigh of relief. They were going to be all right. Luis looked around and saw that a lot of people, including him, had blood on their faces. Although, a lot of people had been injured, everyone didn't seem to look that bad. Then, Luis remembered Sheridan. He looked around. She wasn't there. Luis became worried. 'Oh my gosh. What if she's hurt?' Luis got up quickly despite the pain he was in and began to search for Sheridan. He looked at the back of the plane where the pole was. She wasn't there. Luis began to panic. 'God, where is she?' Luis heard something behind him. He turned around and looked at the corner. There she was. Sheridan was curled up on the floor by the corner, many yards away from the pole. She was crying and blood was streaking down her face and her hands. Luis ran to her side. "Sheridan. Sheridan, are you all right?" Luis turned Sheridan head so she could look at him. A faint smile came over her face. "Oh, Luis!" she cried as she threw her arms around his neck. Luis held her tightly. "Shh. It's okay. It's okay." Sheridan buried her face in his chest and cried harder. Luis took a cloth and wiped the blood and tears away from her face. He looked at the bad cuts on her face. "We had better get you some help," he said. He tried to help Sheridan stand, but she cringed in pain and stumbled over. Luis caught her from falling. Without a word, he lifted her up into his arms. Sheridan stared deep into his warm loving eyes. All of the pain seemed to wash away from her. Being with Luis made her feel so safe and secure. She knew that when she was in his arms, no harm could come to her. And she would never let anything happen to Luis either. He was the love of her life and she now knew that he was never using her. It was all Jullian. Sheridan noted to herself that she would make her brother and father pay for what they had done. Luis carried Sheridan out of the plane where all the other people were waiting. Luis ran straight to the pilot and asked him to get the first aid kit out. The pilot brought out the first aid and Luis laid Sheridan on the ground. He started to clean the wound, and Sheridan flinched at the touch. Luis felt his stomach turn, thinking about her in pain. "Sorry." he said. Sheridan rubbed Luis's cheek with her hand and smiled. "Don't be." Luis smiled at her and continued to clean her wounds. Luis wrapped her arms in bandages and help her up. Sheridan was still having trouble walking, so Luis had to help her. Luis held Sheridan in his arms to comfort her. He looked into her eyes and saw that she was in fear. He touched her cheek. "Hey, hey. It's gonna be all right. I bet the rescue plane will be here to get us soon." Sheridan smiled up at him. Luis saw the fear in her eyes start to fade away and he continued, "And besides, look at his place." Sheridan and Luis looked around. They had landed on a beautiful island by the beach. It was covered with palm trees and a big forest surrounded by sandy beached with water that was light blue. The scene reminded Sheridan of Hawaii. "It's very beautiful." she said. Luis said, "Yeah. And I bet we could make it home while we're stuck here." Sheridan smiled, "You're right Luis. Everything will be fine." She kissed Luis softly on the lips. Sheridan meant to pull back, but Luis kissed her back. Everytime she kissed him, he never wanted it to end. It was like an idicsion. Kissing her made all of his problems and worries go away. He just wanted to kiss her forever. He broke off the kiss and stared into her eyes. Once everyone was off of the boat, Luis looked at his watch. It was almost 8:00 and it was getting dark. Sheridan broke away from him and began to walk back to the plane. Luis followed her. "Sheridan. Where are you going?" Sheridan reached down to the ground and picked something up. She showed it to Luis. It was the silver necklace that he gave her. "It's the necklace you gave me. I'm so glad that I didn't loose it." She clipped it back on. Luis said, "You really love that necklace, don't you?" Sheridan stepped closer to Luis and whispered, "Almost as much as I love you." Luis felt a chill go down his spine. He loved to hear her say those words. He thought they were the most beautiful words he had ever heard. He whispered back, "I love you too!" Luis kissed Sheridan passionately and swung her up into his arms. Sheridan was a little startled. "Luis. What are you doing?" "Having fun!" Luis ran around and spun around and around with Sheridan in his arms. She laughed at him. "Luis." Luis finally stopped and he could see now that Sheridan wasn't worried any more. He could tell that she felt completely safe with him. Luis loved to hold her in his arms. The pilot yelled, "Okay everyone. A rescue ship is on its way and it will be here tomorrow. Until then, we will have to make this home. We will set up a campfire and cook some food." Everyone started to calm down now and they began to explore the island. They thought that they would make the best of their time there. When Sheridan and Luis could finally walk, they went away from the crowd to a place by the beach. They sat their together, holding each other as they watched the sun set. This day had been a big adventure, and it was only the beginning. The only thing that mattered was that they had each other...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 15: Beach Fun!

Everyone was started to get used to the island that they had crashed on. The island was very beautiful and people were having fun. They would be stuck on it longer than they thought though, because the pilot didn't know where they were, and nether did the rescue team. They might be stuck there for a few days. Luis helped out with the other men to cook food and build shelter. Luis found that every once in a while, Sheridan would disappear to somewhere and then return a little while later. The people were eating lunch in a circle. Sheridan hadn't really talked to anyone, but Luis was having lots of conversations with the other people. After a while, he saw Sheridan sneak away into the forest. He decided to follow her. 'Where is she going?' he thought. Luis followed Sheridan as she walked through the forest. She didn't even notice that Luis was following her, but Luis followed her very closely. Finally, Sheridan came out to a clearing. Luis stared around. Sheridan had walked to a beautiful lake in the middle of the island. It was surrounded by cliffs and beautiful trees. A beautiful waterfall fell over the cliffs and into the lake. Luis was so amazed by the site, that he forgot he was following Sheridan. When he snapped back, he saw Sheridan climbing up some rocks to get to the top of a boulder right by the waterfall. Luis followed her carefully. Sheridan climbed the rocks and Luis slowly climbed behind her. Sheridan reached the top and stood to look at the view. Luis reached the top. He looked out and saw why Sheridan had come here a lot. It was a beautiful view. It was a site of the forest, the whole lake, and part of the sea on the horizon. Luis stared at Sheridan, who was still unaware of his presence. He decided to sneak up on her and surprise her. Luis creped up behind her and grabbed her arms as he turned her around. Sheridan was so startled that she screamed and lost her balance. Sheridan held out her hands to keep balance, but it was too late for Luis to even grab her. Sheridan fell from the rock and started to fall down to the lake below. Luis said to himself, "Oh no! What have I done?" Luis jumped off the cliff after Sheridan and plunged into the lake. When he came up, he didn't see Sheridan. He turned around and around, but he still couldn't see her. He started to panic. "Sheridan! Sheridan! Where are you?" Suddenly, he saw Sheridan come up. He sighed with relief and swam towards her as fast as he could. She was still coughing when he got to her. He held her around the waist. "Sheridan! Are you all right? I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to scare you like that!" Luis looked at Sheridan with eyes full of worry. Sheridan just laughed. "Oh, it's all right. I'm fine! I must say, you really startled me." "I'm so sorry, Sheridan." said Luis. "Don't be," said Sheridan, "Now, how did you find me here? Did you follow me?" Luis laughed, "Yeah!" They started to walk out of the water. "This place is very beautiful, Sheridan." said Luis. "Isn't it." she said as they sat down on the sandy beach. For a moment, they were both silent. Luis finally took Sheridan's hand and looked into her deep, blue eyes. "Sheridan. I want you to know, that I will always be here for you, no matter what. I love you, Sheridan. I don't want you to feel that you can't trust me." Sheridan smiled, "Luis. I love you too. I do trust you, more than anyone." Luis said, "Well good!" Sheridan said, "Well, I think I'm ready for another swim. You coming?" "Right behind ya." Sheridan and Luis ran to the water and plunged in. They swam around and splashed each other playfully, like little kids. Luis kept on chasing Sheridan and dunking her in the water. Sometimes, he would throw her up in the air and catch her when she came down. Luis was having so much fun. Luis and Sheridan were splashing around when Luis suddenly caught a glimpse of something on the other side of the lake. His smile faded. He looked over and saw some poachers with guns coming out of the bushes. Sheridan was still laughing and splashing around. Luis grabbed her and pulled her close. He stared into her eyes and whispered, "Sheridan. We have to get out of here." Sheridan looked at him with a confused, but happy look on her face. "Why?" Luis nodded his head towards the poachers. Sheridan turned around and saw the men loading their guns. Luis felt Sheridan start to panic. He turned her around and looked into her eyes that were full of fear. "It's okay, Sheridan. We... we just have to get out slowly, and head back to the camp before they see us." Sheridan nodded her head. Luis and Sheridan silently walked out of the water and began to run back into the forest. Once they were in the forest, they relaxed. Sheridan took Luis's hand. "Wow! That was scary!" Luis smiled down at her. "It's all right, Sheridan! We're okay! Now, we just have to figure out a way to get back." They walked for a few minutes, when Luis realized that they didn't know the way back. "We have to figure out a way to get back to the group." Sheridan said, "Oh, don't worry! I remember the way." Luis smiled, "Okay! You go on ahead. I just need to tie my shoes." "All right!" Sheridan says as she walked off. She walked about five yards away from Luis when suddenly, she finds herself face to face with a poacher! Sheridan started to panic. She didn't know what to do, so she just shouted, "Luis!" When Luis heard the fear in Sheridan's voice, he looked up. He suddenly saw a poacher lift a gun and pointed it towards Sheridan. He felt his heart jump as the trigger was pulled...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 16: Captured!

Luis felt his heart jump as the trigger went off. The sound of the gunshot echoed in his head. Luis closed his eyes because of fear. If the bullet had hit Sheridan, there was not doubt that she would be dead. He couldn't stand the thought of opening his eyes and seeing her dead on the ground. Luis forced himself to open his eyes and he stood up. He saw Sheridan running towards him and into his arms. There was no blood on her. Luis smiled. The bullet had missed. Luis thanked god that she was all right. It took Luis a few moments to realize that the poacher was still there. Luis's heart began to race again and he feared for Sheridan's life. He had to get her out of there. He grabbed Sheridan's hand and yelled, "Let's move!" Sheridan and Luis began to run through the woods. Every once in a while, they looked around and it seemed like even more poachers were chasing them. About five of them were on their tail. Sheridan suddenly tripped and fell to the ground with a thud. Luis was still running as he let go of Sheridan's hand and felt a chill go down his spine. He stopped himself as quickly as possible and turned around. A stunned Sheridan and lying on the ground, frightened as a poacher held back the end of his gun with means to knock her out. Luis lunged himself forward and jumped in front of Sheridan. As the gun came down, Luis stopped it with his hands. The poacher tried to push Luis to the ground with his gun and Luis tried to push him back. Both men had their hands on the gun, as if using it to push the other person away. Luis was getting tired, but he had to keep going. If he didn't keep trying, they would hurt Sheridan, and he wouldn't let that happen. He had to protect Sheridan with his life, and that was exactly what he was going to do. Suddenly, another man came out from behind Luis and knocked him out...

Luis slowly opened his eye lids to see that it was very early in the morning. The sun was beginning to rise in the horizon and the sky was pink and yellow. Then, Luis looked around. He was tied up to the wall with ropes in a room that looked like a dungeon. He pulled on the ropes, but the ropes were too tight on his wrists and ankles. At first, Luis didn't remember how he got there, but then, it came back to him. Fighting with the poacher to save Sheridan's life in the forest, as another man came behind him and knocked him out. That was all that he remembered. The men must have dragged him to this place and tied him up. Then, he remembered Sheridan. He looked around the room. She wasn't there! Luis began to panic and he breathed heavily. What if something had happened to her? What if when he was knocked out, the poachers had killed her? He would never be able to forgive himself if anything ever happened to her! Where was she? He had to find her! Suddenly, a poacher came in the door. The man came up to him and smiled evilly. Luis glared at him with evil eyes. "Where is she? What have you done with her?" The man smiled, "Who?" Luis looked disgusted. "Don't who me! Sheridan, the girl I was with. The one you tried to kill! Where is she?" The man stepped back to the door. "She's all right, for now!" Suddenly, another man ran in the door. He had Sheridan in his arms and had an arm around her neck, ready to choke her if she made any false moves. Luis stared at Sheridan. He was happy that she was all right, but he looked at her face. Her face was dirty and she had tears streaming down her face. Luis could see the fear in her eyes. He wanted so badly to just hold her in his arms and comfort her, but that was not possible now. The man who was holding Sheridan looked over at the other poacher. "What should we do with her?" he said. "Throw her in the next room! I'll take care of her." Sheridan cried, "No! You can't do this!" as the men threw her into the next room. The first poacher came in behind her and closed the door behind. Luis could hear Sheridan screaming at the man to get away from her as he attacked her. Luis felt so helpless. He hated to see or hear her in pain. She was in their screaming and crying. Luis didn't know what that man was doing to her, but he had a feeling it wasn't good. He tried to untie the ropes so that he could help her, but he was too weak to even lift his hands. He just pressed his head against the wall and listened in agony as Sheridan screamed with fear...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 17: Here For You Always!

Luis fell asleep after hearing Sheridan screaming in the next room. He had no idea what was going on, but whatever it was, it was not good. He woke up and looked around. At first, he didn't remember where he was, but it came back to him. The man who was hurting Sheridan must have left, because before Luis fell asleep, the front door had been open, but now, it was shut. Luis just sat there. He didn't know what to do. Suddenly, he heard something in the next room. He put his ears to the wall. He listened very carefully and he could hear Sheridan crying. She sounded awful. Hearing Sheridan in pain made Luis's heart break. She didn't deserve any of this. She was a good person. She had been through so much, and now, this was happening. He could only imagine what she was feeling right now. She probably felt cold, afraid, helpless, and alone. He had to comfort her. He had to be there for her, like he promised to be. Now that Luis had his strength back, he was able to break off the ropes that were tied around him. It took him a long time, but he finally freed himself. As soon as he was untied, he ran to the door to the next room. He turned the knob and expected it to be locked, but it wasn't. He opened the door and looked inside. He looked around the room until he came to a far corner. There she was. Sheridan was curled up on the floor against the wall. Luis could see from where he was standing that she had been hurt and she was crying. As he looked at Sheridan, his eyes began to well up with tears. He ran to Sheridan's side. Sheridan was staring out into space and didn't look at Luis. Luis whispered, "Sheridan! Sheridan, it's all right. I'm here!" Sheridan looked up at Luis. She looked into his eyes. She loved him so much. He was always there for her and he would never let anything happen to her. She cared for him more than anything and she knew now that Luis loved her. Thinking about their love for each other made Sheridan start to cry harder. Luis lifted her up and took her in his arms. He softly laid her against his chest. He had on arm wrapped around her, while the other was holding her head. Sheridan was so weak and afraid, she couldn't even speak. She just sat there sobbing as Luis tried to comfort her. "Shh. It's okay. It's okay." He would whisper to her. Watching her was so painful for him. He tried to fight back the tears, but it was too hard for him. Soon, tears were streaming down his face. Luis did his best to hold them back, but he just couldn't. He finally gave in and let himself sob with Sheridan. He held her tightly against him and rocked her slowly.

When Sheridan finally calmed down a little, she lifted her head and looked into Luis's eyes. Luis saw her face. Sheridan's cheeks and her eyes were red because of how much she cried. Luis noticed that she had bruises on her neck and face. He saw a mark of dry blood that streamed down from her head. Even through all that, she was still the most beautiful woman he had ever laid eyes on. No matter what had happened to her, just the sight of her took his breathe away. Even so, he knew that she was in pain. Luis cupped Sheridan's face with one hand. "Sheridan! What happened? What did he do to you?" Sheridan looked up at him with fear in her eyes and said, "It was my part of the deal!" Luis looked confused. "Deal?" Sheridan took a deep breathe and told him...

**SHERIDAN'S STORY**

"After you had been knocked out, one of the poachers tried to kill you. I wasn't about to let you die, so, I shielded you and begged the men not to hurt you. It took them a while, but I finally convinced them. We made a deal. They said that they would not hurt you, but I had to be tortured instead. I was ready to do anything to protect you, so, I accepted."

**REALITY**

Luis looked into Sheridan's eyes. He was touched by how much she cared for him. She was willing to receive any kind of pain, if it meant protecting him. He had no idea that she felt that stronger about him. Luis felt the same way about her. Luis smiled at Sheridan. "You did that... for me?" Sheridan nodded, "Yes. I couldn't let them hurt you, Luis. I love you!" Luis felt the tears well up in his eyes. Sheridan saw as a few tears trickled down his face. Sheridan reached out her hand, and brushed them away. Luis stared into her eyes deeply and smiled. "Oh, Sheridan. I love you so much!" Luis took Sheridan in his arms and hugged her tightly to him. Holding her in his arms was the most wonderful feeling he had ever had. He just wanted to hold on to her forever and never let go. To him, it was clear that there was no heaven... he was already there. She was heaven! She was the one person that he could turn to for true love. No other couple cared about each other as much as them. Even after Jullian and Alistair's attempts to separate them, they still ended up together. If they had made it this far, there was no doubt that their true love would win out in the end. Sheridan pulled back a little and looked into his eyes again. They were only inches apart. They were so silent, but it seemed like they were communicating through their eyes. It seemed as if they were saying, 'Make love to me.' In an instant, Luis and Sheridan's lips touch and they kissed intensely. All of the kisses that they have had recently were just little kisses, but this one was truly the most passionate. Luis held Sheridan in a sweet caress and Sheridan had her hands in his hair. They never said a word. They just kissed each other without stopping. Then, they made love to each other.

A while later, Sheridan and Luis were flying on the floor in each other's arms. They had just made love to each other for the first time. It wasn't the most romantic spot in the world to make love. There were no candles, or flowers, or soft music, or a warm fire, or a cozy bed. That didn't matter to them. The only thing that mattered was that they were together and in love. Sheridan rested her head on Luis's bare chest asleep. Luis lay awake watching her. He actually saw her smiling. 'God, she's so beautiful.' He thought to himself. He gently grazed her chin with the tip of his finger. He accidentally woke Sheridan up by doing this. He felt a little bad, but he was glad to be looking into her eyes again. Sheridan turned her head upwards and stared into her eyes. Before they had made love, Sheridan's eyes were full of fear and now, they were full of hope and courage. Sheridan smiled at her. Sheridan rested her head again on his chest and Luis sighed. "Sheridan?" he asked. Sheridan was tracing small circles on his chest. "Yes?" "Promise me something!" "Yes!" Luis smiled, "Promise me that we'll never leave each other. Promise me that we'll always be together, no matter what we do." Sheridan looked up at him. "I don't have to promise. I don't ever want to leave your side again." Luis smiled and kissed her on the forehead. "I would feel much better if you promised!" Sheridan smiled, "I promise!" "We have to get back to the group!" Luis said sadly. Sheridan nodded sadly and moved off his chest to get dressed. They both were a little disappointed that they had to leave each other's arms, but they would soon be able to hold each other again. They both knew that they had to get out of there before the poachers came back, or it was over for them. When they got dressed, they walked to the door and peaked out. No one was there. Sheridan took Luis's hand and they walked out. They peaked outside and no one was there. He looked back at Sheridan. "The coast it clear! Let's go!" With that, they ran out the door as quick as possibly. They ran into the forest and ran as fast as they could to get away from the poachers. Sheridan lead the way, since she knew how to get back. After a while, Sheridan stopped. Luis saw that she was very tired. Sheridan panted, "I... can't... run... anymore." Luis sighed. He went up to Sheridan and scooped her up in his arms. He held her tightly against him so he could feel her heart beating. Sheridan and Luis exchanged smiles, and Luis continued to run through the forest. Sheridan told him where to go. After a while, Sheridan said, "We're almost there!" Luis sighed with relief. He was getting tired. Suddenly, he heard something. It was a helicopter! The rescue team must have come to get them. It sounded like they were about to leave. Luis started to panic. What if they were going to leave without them? He ran even faster until he got to the clearing. He saw that the helicopter was indeed starting to leave. The pilot looked over at Luis as he ran over to them. Luis yelled, "Wait! Wait! Wait!" He ran up to the helicopter. The pilot looked at him with disappointed eyes and said, "I'm sorry, but there is only room for one more person on the helicopter." Luis was silent. What was he going to do?...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 18: Decisions!

Luis stood there thinking. How could this be happening after all they had been through? There was only room left for one more person on the helicopter. Him or Sheridan! He had to get out of there fast, or the poachers would find him and kill him, but he couldn't just abandon Sheridan here. He loved her. He could never do that. The poachers could come and kill Sheridan! He could never live with himself if anything ever happened to her. He made up his mind.

He set Sheridan down on the edge of the helicopter and said, "Take her! Come for me later!" Sheridan instantly jumped up and wrapped her arms around Luis's neck. "No! Luis, I can't leave you here! You go! I'll stay!" Luis pulled her arms off of his neck and looked into her eyes. "Sheridan! You have to! I could never just leave you here, unprotected. If anything happened to you, I don't know what I'd do!" Sheridan had a look of shook and fear in her eyes. "I'm not leaving you, Luis! I can't go! Something might happen to you!" Luis cupped Sheridan's face in his hands. Tears were streaming down her face. Luis wiped them away. "I'll be all right, Sheridan! I promise!" Sheridan didn't say anything. Luis said, "Take her." The men helped Sheridan onto the helicopter. Luis reached out a hand to Sheridan and took her hand. He kissed it lightly and Sheridan felt her eyes well up with tears. The helicopter started up and Luis slowly stepped back, while still holding Sheridan's hand. When his hand finally left Sheridan's, he felt tears come to his eyes as well. He didn't want to be separated from her, but he wasn't about to put her life in danger. He had to do the right thing, and this was the right thing. The helicopter door closed and Sheridan stared out the window at Luis. They never took their eyes off each other. As the helicopter started to rise, Sheridan started to cry. The helicopter started to leave, and Luis watched it in agony as he whispered, "I love you, Sheridan!"

Sheridan sat down in the helicopter and looked out the window at Luis. All of a sudden, a bunch of memories came back to her. When they danced the tango at Pilar's birthday, comforting her when she had nightmares in Santa Fe, rescuing her in Santa Fe, on Christmas Eve, dancing at the youth center on New Year's Eve, being in his arms at midnight, going on their first date, when Luis tackled her on Valentine's Day, going to the pool hall, kissing at the wharf, then, she remembered when Luis made her promise that they would never leave each other again. Sheridan made the promise and she had to keep it. She looked out the window at Luis and made up her mind.

She went up to the pilot and said, "Turn around! Go back! I'm going to stay with him until another helicopter comes." The pilot said, "Miss, I__." "Damn it! Just go back!" Sheridan yelled. The pilot immediately turned around and headed back to the island. When Luis saw the helicopter turn around, he was confused. "What the... what is she doing?" Luis watched in amazement as the helicopter landed. The door opened and Sheridan climbed out. She told the pilot to leave without him and she closed the door. The helicopter started up again. Sheridan turned around and met Luis's eyes. They stood there staring at each other for a while. Then, Sheridan started to run to Luis. Then, Luis started to run to Sheridan. As they both run towards each other, tears were coming down their faces. When they finally reached each other, Sheridan jumped into Luis's arms. Luis held Sheridan tightly against him and cried, "Sheridan! What are you doing? You have to leave!" Sheridan broke away from the embrace and looked deep into Luis's eyes. She smiled, "A promise is a promise. I keep my promises!" Luis smiled as he remembered the promise she made to him. "Oh, Sheridan! I love you so much!" Sheridan ran her hands through his hair and said, "I love you too, Luis!" They gave each other a passionate kiss. Luis wrapped his arms around her and pulled her closer to him. This was definitely the best kiss they had ever had. Luis scooped Sheridan into his arms and they laughed as he spun he around in circles. The helicopter was gone now, and there was no turning back. Luis laid Sheridan on the sandy beach below and came down on top of her. They kissed passionately as they rolled around in the sand.

Later on, they looked for a place to sleep for the night. It take them a while to make a shelter and Luis was very worried that the poachers would find them again and kill both of them. They decided to sleep high up in the trees. The found a beautiful tree right by the beach and climbed up into it. They made a hammock with leaves and branches. They made it so perfectly, that it felt like a normal bed. It was getting dark now and they had to sleep so that they were rested for tomorrow. A helicopter would come and find them. Now that the rescue team knew where to look, it wouldn't take as long to find them. Sheridan and Luis climbed into the bed in the trees. Sheridan relaxed her back into Luis's chest and he lightly brushed his lips against her neck. She could feel him breathing on her and she loved the feeling of his lips against her skin. Luis kissed Sheridan's neck many times before resting his head. Sheridan fell asleep instantly. Luis had some trouble getting to sleep. Although he was very tired, he couldn't fall asleep. Even though they were high in the trees, he kept having the feeling that the poachers would find them and kill Luis and hurt Sheridan. He would do everything in his power to protect Sheridan from harm. He tightened his grip around Sheridan for more protection and then, finally fell asleep. Even through all the fear, it felt so good to be sleeping next to the woman he loved. He would never trade it for anything. He never wanted to leave her side again. Luis knew that true love would win out in the end. Luis and Sheridan are yet to learn that this is only the beginning of their adventure in love...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 19: By Your Side!

Luis drifted off to sleep as he held Sheridan in his arms. He loved the feeling of holding her. He felt like he was in heaven. He could feel her heat beating and the sound of her breathe and it made his heart melt. He drifted off into a wonderful dream...

**DREAM**

Luis and Sheridan are in a beautiful room filled with flowers and roses. The lights are off and the room is lit with candles. There was soft music playing. Sheridan and Luis were lying in the bed, naked in each other's arms. Sheridan and Luis were facing each other and staring into each other's eyes. Luis stroked her hair with his fingers and toyed with the strands of her hair. He said, "Sheridan! You are so wonderful to me! I love you with every inch of my heart. I don't know what I'd do without you!" Sheridan's eyes started to fill with tears. "Oh, Luis! I love you too! More than anything." Luis smiled as he cupped her face in his hands and kissed her passionately. He pulled back and said, "Good! Cause that's going to make this even better!" Sheridan was confused. "What do you mean, Luis?" Luis opened his mouth to say something, but he shut it again. "No! Not right now!" Sheridan was annoyed now. "Oh, come on Luis! Tell me! What?" Luis said, "If you get dressed, I'll take you somewhere special and I'll tell you." Sheridan smiled. She immediately jumped out of bed and got dressed as fast as possible. Luis laughed and he noticed what a hurry she was in to find out what he was going to say. Luis smiled to himself. 'It will be worth the wait, Sheridan.' Sheridan and Luis finished getting dressed, and then, the went for a walk. While they were walking, Luis held Sheridan closely to him. The weather was very chilly outside, but even through the cold, Sheridan could always keep in warm. He was a little nervous about what he was going to tell her. He was afraid about how she would respond. But there was only one way to find out. After a while, Luis suddenly covered Sheridan's eyes with his hands. "Luis? What's going on?" "You'll see," he said as he lead Sheridan forward. After a while, Luis finally took his hands off and she opened her eyes. Luis had taken her to the beach. They were on a beautiful cliff by the beach where the waves crashed against the rocks. The sun was setting and the sky was painted with pink, orange, and red. It was the most beautiful sight she had ever seen. She yelled, "Oh, Luis! This is so beautiful!" She turned around to see that Luis was bending down on one knee, with a small box in his hands. Sheridan's mouth dropped open and tears came rushing to her eyes. Luis said, "Sheridan. Uh... I uh... don't really know where to begin. Well, all I know is that, I love you. You are the most wonderful person I have ever known. All the times we have shared together have been so precious to me. I savor every moment I spend with you..." A few tears came rushing down Sheridan's cheek as he continued. "I know that I have nothing to offer you. You're a Crane and I... I am just a cop working at the Youth Center, but... the only thing I have to offer you, is love! Sheridan..." He opened the box and Sheridan saw a beautiful silver ring with diamonds on it. Sheridan smiled a very very big smile. Luis took Sheridan's hand and the ring in the other hand. He cleared his throat and said, "Will you marry me?" Tears were now rushing down Sheridan's face. She smiled and said, "Yes! Yes, Luis, I will!" Luis jumped up and embraced her in his arms. He kissed her passionately in the sunset.

**REALITY**

Luis woke up and realized that it was just a dream. He was a little disappointed, but he wanted to make his dream come true. He noticed that it was morning and the sun was shining brightly on him. He looked next to him where Sheridan was sleeping. But she wasn't there! She was gone! Panic rushed over Luis. He felt his heart begin to race and he breathed deeply. He looked around, but still couldn't find her. He got up and jumped out of the tree. He searched around. Suddenly, she bumped right into him. Luis was about to say something, but Sheridan covered his mouth with her hand. She moved closer to him and whispered, "They're here!" Luis looked confused. "Who?" "The poachers. They're here!" Luis's eyes not wide. He heard some scurrying in the bushes nearby. They ran on the other side of the tree. "I was afraid of this," he said, "We have to get away from them, or we'll never be safe!" Luis looked around and Sheridan whispered, "What do we do?" Luis looked at Sheridan and said, "Get up in the tree. If you stay up there, they can't find you. I'll stay down here and fight them off!" Sheridan hugged Luis close to him and said, "No! I can't let you do that! You'll get hurt." Luis lifted Sheridan's head up to look at him. "I won't get hurt!" "There are too many of them. I can't let you fight them alone." Luis cupped her face in his hands. "I won't take the chance of them hurting you! Don't worry! I'll be all right!" Sheridan was terrified about what might happen to Luis, but she found comfort in his eyes. She smiled and climbed up into the tree. Luis got ready to fight. Sheridan watched as the poachers walked around the area by the tree. They looked like a pack of lions on a hunt. The had no guns on them, which made Sheridan feel better. At least there was a chance that Luis would not get hurt. Suddenly, Luis pounced on one of the men. He began to choke him, when he saw on the corner of his eye, as a nothing man came rushing to get him. Luis rolled over to the side and stood up. The men stared at him with shock and anger. Luis stood between them and the tree. As if protecting it. He knew that Sheridan was up there and he would do whatever it took to protect her. He could feel Sheridan's fear as he stood there. He could feel that she was afraid for him. The head poacher said, "You're that man!" Luis nodded, "Yes. I am!" "I am surprised that you escaped. Where is that woman of yours?" Luis had an angry look in his eyes. How do dare refer to Sheridan as 'woman'! She was more than just a woman. She was the greatest woman in the world! He said sarcastically, "Like I'll ever tell you!" The man slowly started to walk towards Luis. Luis was getting frightened and he slowly moved away from the tree. The man said, "Oh, you will. If you know what's good for you." Luis said, "I will never let you hurt Sheridan!" The man said, "Nice try! But no matter what you do, she will be found!" Luis said angrily, "Over my dead body!" "You got that right!" the man said as he punched Luis in the face. Luis was so startled by the punch, he fell over. Sheridan gasped as she saw blood run down his cheek. Luis tried to scramble up, but the other men caught him. Luis tried to jerk out of their grip, but they were too strong. Sheridan was terrified. She slowly walked onto a branch to see if she could do anything to save him. Luis was still trying to get out of the poacher's grip, when he heard a loud crack!!!

To Be Continued...

Chapter 20: Run, (Through The) Forest, Run!

Luis shook as he heard a long crack. It sounded like branches cracking and falling from a tree. He immediately thought of Sheridan. 'Oh no. Sheridan! What if she's hurt?' Luis didn't have time to think, because the next thing he saw, was a big branch falling to the ground, followed closely by Sheridan who fell to the ground. "SHERIDAN!!!" Luis yelled. At first, Sheridan wasn't moving. Luis started to panic. Finally, he heard Sheridan moan and saw her turn over. She opened her eyes closely and the first thing she saw, was the head poacher. Shock ran across her face. She scrambled up from the floor and stood up quickly. She pressed her back against the wall. She looked at Luis. His eyes were full of worry and pain. Then, she looked back at the man who said, "So, that is where you were the whole time?" The man stepped up to Sheridan and grabbed her chin with his hand and jerked it from side to side. Sheridan shook away his hand and stared angrily at him. The man grabbed Sheridan's wrist tightly and pulled her forward. "You wouldn't have been in this mess if you only kept your side of the deal. We didn't kill Luis, so, you had to suffer for him." Sheridan stared at Luis. Her eyes were filled with love for him. The man pulled her forward again. "Since you didn't keep your end of the deal, we will have to kill you!" With that, the man punched Sheridan in the face and she fell to the ground. "NOOO!" shouted Luis as he tried to run to Sheridan. The other poachers were holding him back. It was impossible to get to her. The man tackles Sheridan to the ground and took out his knife. As soon as Sheridan saw the knife above her, some tears began to fill her eyes. Luis shouted, "NNNOOOOOOOO!!!!!!" As he finally broke free of the men and lunged himself towards the man. Luis tackles the man to the ground and Sheridan stood up. Luis and the man fought each other vigorously. After a while, the man had pinned Luis to the ground. Luis looked up at Sheridan and said, "Run, Sheridan! Run!" Sheridan hesitated. She didn't want to leave Luis alone like this, but Luis wanted her too. She finally turned around and ran into the bushes. The lead poacher yelled, "Go. Get her!" Luis yelled at the top of his lungs. "RUN! SHERID__." His mouth was covered by the poacher's hand. "She may have gotten away, but when we find her, we will kill her."

In the forest, Sheridan ran as fast as she could to get away from the poachers. The only thing on her mind was Luis. She was so worried about him. He was captured by the poachers and could have been dead by now. Sheridan wanted so much to go back and save him, but she knew that Luis wanted to be sure she was safe. Sheridan knew that Luis loved her. She ran and ran until she came to the beautiful waterfall that she had gone to a lot. She stopped for a moment to catch her breathe, but she heard the poachers coming. She ran to where the cliff was. She climbed up onto the highest rock by the waterfall and got down on her stomach so that the poachers couldn't see her. She saw the poachers come out from the bushes and look around. They were still dragging Luis along. Sheridan smiled with relief. 'Oh. Thank god he is still alive.' The main poacher looked around and said, "Damn! We lost her!" Luis said, "You'll never find Sheridan!" The man walked up to Sheridan and said, "You are in no position to be talking to me like that," he said. Luis said, "I can talk to you however I want. And I love Sheridan with all my heart. There is no way in hell I am going to let you hurt her." The man laughed, "Ha! We'll see about that!" Suddenly, something caught his eye. He looked up on top of the rock and spotted Sheridan. "There she is," he said. He looked at Luis who was now full of fear. "Looks like it's the end for her." Luis didn't say anything. They walked along and the man ran up to the top of the rock. He grabbed Sheridan and flung her around. Luis watched in agony as Sheridan struggled to get free from the man. The man tried to push her off the other side of the rock. On the other side, there was a small gorge. If anyone fell in there, they would surely die. Sheridan fought as hard as she could to get free, but it was no use. The man was pushing her over the edge and Sheridan tried to push him back. Sheridan looked down and saw the gorge below her. She quickly moved over to the side. The man almost fell forward and over the edge, but he caught his balance He quickly ran towards Sheridan and pushed her off the edge...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 21: Survival!

Luis gasped as he saw Sheridan struggle for her life. It was so hard to watch that man hurt her. Haven't they suffered enough? They had been through so much together and for this to be happening was too much. Luis couldn't take it anymore. With all his strength, he broke free of the poachers and ran up to where Sheridan and the man were fighting. He was a few yards away from them when he saw Sheridan slip off the edge and fall. Luis screamed, "NOOO!" As he dove towards the edge, but he was too late. He watched with pain as Sheridan crashed into the water. The fall had been so hard, it would be difficult for her to survive it, but she still had a chance. Thank god that she moved herself away from the gorge in time. Luis was so wrapped up in thinking about Sheridan, he forgot about the head poacher right behind him. The man lifted a knife to Luis and Luis saw out of the corner of his eye what was going to happen. Instantly, Luis turned around and grabbed the hand that had the knife in it. The man tried with all his strength to push Luis down so he could stab Luis. Luis fought back as hard as he could. In his head, all he could think about was Sheridan. He had to make sure that she was okay and he had to survive. He had to survive, or Sheridan would be in trouble. With all his strength, he pushed the man out to the gorge. He man slipped over the edge and fell down the gorge. As he fell, the rest of the poachers could hear his scream as it slowly echoed and faded away. The other poachers were afraid and ran off. Luis laid down on the ground and caught his breathe. It was over. The poachers were gone and that man was dead. It would all be over soon. He had nothing to worry about. Then it hit him... Sheridan! Luis got up and looked out at the lake. She wasn't there. 'Oh no! Where is she? No! This can't be happening. Sheridan can't die, she can't.' Luis looked around. Still, he could not see Sheridan. Luis started to panic. His eyes filled up with tears and he started to breathe deeply. 'God, Sheridan! Where are you? You can't leave me, Sheridan! Please, don't leave me!' Suddenly, Luis saw something. far out in the lake, there was a small river leading out. In the middle of it was a small little island. He saw Sheridan lying on the edge of the island. Luis looked in amazement. She must have floated there because have of her body was lying on the island and the other was floating in the water. Luis sighed with relief. He climbed down the rocks as fast as he could. As soon as he was down, he ran down to the edge of the lake. He stepped into the small river. It was very shallow. It only went up to his knees, but the current was very strong. Luis had to try very hard to lift his feet from the ground to walk across. When he got there, he went straight to Sheridan's side. He sat down beside her and took her in his arms. She was unconscious. Luis held her closely to him and he caressed her face as he said, "Sheridan. My poor Sheridan." He looked at her and started to cry. Sheridan didn't deserve any of this. She had been through so much lately. How could this have happened? Why was Sheridan always getting hurt? It wasn't fair. She shouldn't have to suffer like this. She deserved to be happy. Luis put his ear to her mouth to listen for breathing. He found no breath. Fear ran over him again. "No, Sheridan! Stay with me!" He held her nose and opened her mouth. He pressed his lips against her's and breathed air into her lungs. She finally started to breathe, but she still didn't wake. "Thank god," Luis said. He touched her arm and a chill ran down his spine. She was freezing. He knew that he had to get her out of there and keep her warm. He gathered her into his arms and rested her head on his neck. He could feel her breathing against his neck. It made him feel so close to her. He ran across the forest as fast as he could. He had to help Sheridan. When he got to the beach, he caught his breathe. He set Sheridan down on the sandy beach and started to build a fire. As he made the fire, he kept looking over at Sheridan every few seconds. She looked so peaceful, but she hadn't moved an inch. The length of her unconsciousness disturbed him a little. It was almost like she was dead and afraid to find out if it was true or not. After the fire had started, the sun was beginning to set. The rescue helicopter would be there in an hour or so. He looked over at Sheridan, who was still sleeping peacefully. 'God, she's so beautiful.' he thought. He smiled while staring at her beautiful face. He crawled over to her and pulled her nearer to him and the fire. He laid her legs across his lap and cradled her head in his arms. He never took his eyes off of her. He just starred down at her smiling, and rocking her slowly. He loved her so much. No matter what had happened to them, they had always been able to overcome it. No love was as strong as theirs. Their kind of love was special. Something that only came by once in a lifetime. He couldn't imagine having to go through a day without seeing her. He couldn't bear to think about what it would be like, if he could never look into her beautiful eyes again. Those eyes were so beautiful. They reminded him or angels and heaven. They glittered and sparkles with the sun. Everything about her was so beautiful... her eyes, her smile, her hair, her face, her hands, and her mind. Everything about her was wonderful. Luis thought that this was almost too good to be true. He loved to hold her in his arms. He never wanted to let go of her. He just wanted to hold her and kiss her and make love to her forever. She was so precious to him, and he would do anything to be with her forever. Suddenly, Sheridan began to wake. She softly groaned and turned a little. "Sheridan," whispered Luis. Sheridan slowly fluttered her eyes open. At first, everything was blurry to her. She was a little scared when she saw someone looked down at her. It was too blurry to see who they were. Then, her eyes adjusted. She saw that it was Luis and smiled. "Luis, I__." "Shh," Luis whispered as he put his fingers over her lips, "Don't talk now. You need to rest." "But, Luis__." "Shhh! Just sleep Sheridan. It's all right! I'm here for you now! Everything's gonna be okay. I promise." Sheridan smiled at him with warm loving eyes. She was very very weak, but she managed to lift her head and pull him into a soft kiss. Luis kissed her back. They both became lost in the moment and both of them kissed longer than they intended to. They loved to kiss each other so much. It was like tasting candy, but so so so much better than that. They were madly in love with each other. They expressed their love in anyway. They wanted to kiss each other forever. Luis finally pulled back and smiled as he stared deep into her eyes. "Now, get some sleep." Sheridan smiled at him and began to close her eyes. Luis was about to get up, but Sheridan instantly opened her eyes and grabbed on to him. "Luis, wait!" Luis sat down again and looked at Sheridan with confusion. "Don't leave me, Luis. Just hold me. Please. I need to be in your arms. Let me fall asleep in your arms." Luis's heart melted. Luis smiled and he nestled Sheridan's face under his neck and wrapped his arms around her. He felt her relax. He could tell that she was happy. It was good to know that she felt safe with him. He felt the same way about her. He watched her as she fell asleep in his arms. So warm, happy, and peaceful...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 22: Home Again!

After everything that Sheridan had been through lately, all she wanted to do was lie in Luis's arms forever. When she felt Luis's arms wrapped around her, she was comforted and knew that everything would be all right. Nothing would ever happen to her. He would protect her. Now that Roger, Pierre, and the poachers were gone, there was nothing left for them to worry about. They were perfectly safe now. She knew that she still had to deal with Jullian and Alistair's complaints, but it didn't matter. Nothing they could do would separate them now. There bond was stronger than ever before, and they would never ever let someone destroy it. Jullian and Alistair's plans were no concern of their's. Then, it hit her. If Jullian and Alistair were capable of doing this to Sheridan, then they could do something to hurt Luis as well. A feeling of fear came over Sheridan and she jumped as she woke up. She opened her eyes. She was lying in her bed at her cottage. Everything was exactly the way she left it. Sheridan had a look of disappointment on her face. 'Oh no! What if it was all a dream? What if Luis is really using me like I heard at the wharf?' Suddenly, the door opened. It was Luis. He was standing there in his jeans with his shirt off. Looking at him with his bare chest made Sheridan quiver. Luis walked over to her bed and sat down next to her. "Sheridan. You're awake! How are you?" Sheridan yawned, "I'm fine, Luis. What's going on? Why are you here?" Luis said, "The rescue team came to get us from the island many hours ago." Sheridan sighed with relief. 'I didn't dream it. It really did happen.' Luis continued, "I... didn't want to wake you up. You looked so peaceful and happy, so, I carried you onto the helicopter. When we got back to Harmony, I took you here. I didn't want to leave you, so, I thought I would stay a little while." Sheridan smiled. He was so concerned and caring for her. "Thank you, Luis. It is so wonderful to be back in Harmony." She slowly got out of bed and her knees wobbled when she stood up. Luis said, "Well, I'm glad you're happy. I need to go get some water. I'll be right back." "Okay," she said as she softly kissed him on the cheek. Luis smiled and ran to the kitchen to get some water. Sheridan started to walk out to the living room, when a dizzy feeling came over her. All of a sudden, everything stared to spin. Sheridan lost her balance and caught herself on the wall. Luis heard the thump and he looked up to she Sheridan leaning against the wall. Something about her was strange. Sheridan shook it off and walk out to the living room again. This time, her head got really dizzy. She grabbed on to the couch to keep herself from falling. Luis had watched her fall and he walked over to her and rubbed her back. Sheridan was rubbing her head with her hand and she looked a little strange. Luis said, "Sheridan? Are you all right?" Sheridan nodded, "Yeah, Luis. I'm fine." Luis decided to decided to shake it off and he started to walk back over to the counter. Sheridan let go of the couch and took another step. As soon as she did, it felt like the entire world was spinning faster and faster. Sheridan reached out to balance herself on the coffee table, but missed it and knocked it over as she fell to the ground. Luis turned around and knew that something was wrong. He ran to Sheridan's side and took her hand. "Sheridan. You don't look too well." "I'm fine, Luis. Really," Sheridan said. Luis put his hand to her head and his eyes were filled with sadness. Luis said, "You have a terrible fever. I have to get you to bed." "No, Luis__." Before she could say anything, Luis scooped her up in his arms and began to slowly carry her back to her bedroom. Sheridan was going to debate with him about this, but she decided not too. She rather liked to be carried in Luis's arms. To feel his strong, muscular arms around her. His loving eyes staring down at her. He smile that was full of life and happiness. As he sat her down into the bed, Sheridan, "Luis. You don't have to do this." Luis pulled the covers over her. "I know. But I want to." Sheridan smiled, "Why are you doing this for me?" Luis sat on the edge of her bed and stared into her deep, blue eyes. He rubbed his knuckle on her cheek and said, "Well... maybe because I love you." Sheridan's eyes welled up with tears. She loved to hear him say those words. They were so beautiful. Luis ran to the bathroom and back in a second with a cold compress for her head. He looked at her face. There was sweat running down her forehead, her cheeks were red, and the rest of her face was pale. He sat by Sheridan's side and gently pressed the compress to her head. Sheridan shivered when Luis's hand accidentally touched her. Sheridan felt bad because Luis's family hadn't seen him in a while. She thought maybe he should go spend time with them. "Luis. You should leave. You should go see your family. They will be thrilled to see you. I'll be fine here." Luis stared into her eyes. "They can wait. I'm not going anywhere until you're okay." Sheridan placed her hand on his cheek and whispered, "I love you, Luis!" Luis smiled back at her. "I love you too!" Luis asked her. "How are you feeling?" Sheridan replied, "I have never been more hot in my life, I am really tired, and my head is pounding with pain." Luis smiled and put his hands on her neck. "Well... I can probably take care of that." Sheridan smiled flirtatiously, "That would be nice. Come on. Sit with me." Sheridan scooted over and Luis slid into the bed next to Sheridan. They both laid their heads down, facing each other. Luis stroked her hair and thought, 'God, she's so beautiful. She is way too good to be true. Can it be that I am actually laying in bed with the woman I love by my side?' Luis and Sheridan moved closer to each other. There lips were a few inches apart. Luis put his hand on her hip and rubbed it softly. Luis said, "I've never felt this way about anyone before." "What?" said Sheridan. "Well... I never left the same about another person as I do about you. You are the most amazing woman I have ever met. I can't imagine my life without you." A few tears came running down Sheridan's face and Luis wiped them away with his fingers. Sheridan said, "Oh, just hold me." They moved up so close that their bodies were tightly pressed against each other. Luis put his arms around Sheridan and Sheridan rested her head on his chest. Luis felt her relax and felt happy. If only he could hold her life this forever...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 23: Stupid Hank!

Sheridan rested her hot head on Luis's chest. She felt so safe and protected by him. Although Sheridan was in pain, she smiled in her sleep, because she was so happy to be in Luis's arms. Luis looked down at Sheridan as she slept. He stroked her golden hair and caressed her neck. He thought, 'I can never get enough of her. She is the most beautiful woman I have ever met in my life. She just makes me wanna quit everything and sleep with her and make love to her all night. She is so precious to me. Nothing can ever keep us apart.' Luis grazed his fingers all around her body. He traced her face, then her neck, and went down to the shoulders. Her skin was so soft and silky. It was like touching a cloud. Luis leaned over and kissed Sheridan on the head. He smelled her hair which smelled like sunflowers that took his breathe away. He moved her off of his chest and onto the pillow. He rested his head on the pillow next to her. There lips were only inches apart. Luis stroked Sheridan's beautiful hair back and stared into her face. He smiled and pulled her tightly to him. He brought his lips to her face and brushed his lips softly against her. He ran his lips along her cheeks up to her forehead and back down again to her lips. He then kissed her softly before moving down to the neck. He gently reigned kisses all over Sheridan's neck. He could smell the scent of her perfume and it made him tingle. He pulled back and stared into her face. She looked so peacful and happy. He would give anything for her to feel that way forever. To be happy and comforted. To be secure and full of love.

Suddenly, he heard a knock on the door. He jumped. "Oh my gosh. Someone's here." The person at the door knocked again many times. Luis looked down at Sheridan who was now clinging herself to Luis's chest. Luis said, "If anyone catches us like this, Sheridan and I will be in big trouble. Luis tried to move out of the bed to get away, but as soon as he started to move away, Sheridan cried out. She was starting to have another nightmare. When Luis reached the door, he turned around to see Sheridan screaming and crying in her sleep. Luis hesitated. He couldn't let anyone she them like this, but he couldn't leave Sheridan. She was still sick and she needed his care. He rushed over to her side. He wrapped the warm blanket around her and gathered her up into his arms. Instantly, she wrapped her arms around his neck and began to calm down. Luis sighed with relief as that big smile returned to Sheridan's face.

Luis carefully opened the door and peeked outside. Once he saw that everything was clear, he figured it was safe. Luis decided that they would have to go somewhere else. If Jullian, Hank, Beth, or anyone found out about this, Sheridan and I would be in trouble. He slowly crept out the back way, looking behind him at the door incase someone came in. Suddenly, he ran into someone. He turned around and gasped. There was Hank. Luis saw Hank's mouth drop to the floor when he saw Luis holding Sheridan. Hank stared back up at Luis with angry eyes. "I can't believe you, Luis. How could you go behind your friend's back like this?" Luis rolled his eyes, "Look Hank. I don't have time for this." Hank watched in amazement as a sleeping Sheridan cuddled up to Luis and whisper, "Mmm. Luis!" Luis blushed. He hadn't expected that to happen. Hank stared at Luis and said, "I can't believe this is happening, Luis. I thought that you were caring enough not to do this to your best buddy." On a normal day, Luis would take all the time he needed to talk to Hank, but today was different. Sheridan was sick. Luis had to get her out of there before anyone else sees her with him. If he took her to his house, everything would be fine. If it weren't for stupid Hank, he would be half way there by now. "Hank. I can't talk right now. Look at Sheridan. She's sick. I need to take care of her." Hank said, "Oh. Looks like you two have grown very close lately." Luis yelled, "Yes. We have, much more than you know. I don't have time for this." Hank crossed his arms, as if threatening Luis. "And just where are you taking her?" Hank asked. Luis hesitated. "If he told Hank that they were going to his house, he would go too and then, Luis wouldn't get the chance to hold her in his arms for the day. Luis couldn't stand to wait that long. "Um.... uh... the doctor. I'm taking her to the doctor to see what's wrong with her." Hank couldn't argue against that. It was a very plausible response. Hank nodded and said, "Okay. You can take care of her now, but I'll have a talk with you later." Hank walked out the back door and slammed it shut. "Stupid Hank!" Luis said as he ran out the front door.

He put Sheridan into his car and got in. As soon as he got in, Sheridan cuddled up to him. Luis was very amazed by how much she wanted to be attached to him. They were like magnets that were unbreakable. Luis loved the feeling of her breathing against his chest. It soothed him and comforted him. He started up the car and started to drive to his house. He made sure that Hank wasn't following him and he made sure that Jullian or anyone wouldn't spot them. When he parked his car in the driveway and looked down at Sheridan. He smiled and kissed her softly on the head. He gathered her up into his arms and looked around to make sure no one was looking. Then, he ran up to the door and knocked on it many times. After what seemed like forever, Pilar finally answered the door. "Oh Luis... you're___" She noticed Sheridan in Luis's arms. Luis just walked right in and said, "Sheridan's sick. I need to lay her down and get her a compress. He walked halfway into the living room, then turned around to face Pilar and said, "Mama! Can you make her some hot tea?" Pilar didn't ask any questions and just nodded as she went into the kitchen. Luis took Sheridan into his room and laid her down gently on the bed. Luis went to get a compress, and he heard Sheridan cry from his room. He hated to hear her in pain, so, he grabbed the compress and ran back into the room and to Sheridan's side. He pressed the compress to her head and Sheridan woke up. Luis was a little surprised that she didn't wake up before. Maybe she was awake before, but didn't want to open her eyes. Luis stared into Sheridan's eyes and said, "Hey. How are you?" Sheridan smiled back. "Now that you're here, great." Luis smiled at her. She was so cute. Luis pressed the compress to her forehead. Sheridan waited there silently, yearning to kiss him. She couldn't take it anymore. She jumped up and kissed him more passionately than ever before...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 24: In Your Arms!

Luis felt his heart rate speed up as Sheridan passionately kissed him. He was very startled and surprised by the kiss, but he fully enjoyed it. He put his arms around her waist and pulled her against him. Sheridan had her hands in his hair. Luis kissed her back. She was so beautiful, so kind, so wonderful... and she was a great kiss her. After he had kissed Sheridan for the first time down at the wharf, he forgot about all those other girls that have kissed him before. She was different, she was special. Luis could smell her perfume and hear her breathing between kisses. Luis loved to kiss her more than anything in the world. He just wanted to kiss her and kiss her and kiss her and kiss her and...

Luis and Sheridan were so caught up in each other, they didn't even see Hank come in. When they finally spotted Hank standing there, it was too late. Hank had already seen them kissing. Sheridan spotted Hank by the door and pulled back from Luis's kiss to look at him. Luis saw Sheridan staring at the door and he turned around to see Hank standing there. Hank mouth dropped open and his eyes were full of anger. Hank was ready to tear Luis's head off, but he didn't want to make a scene in front of Sheridan. Hank said, "Luis. Can I talk to you for a second?" Luis looked back at Sheridan. Both of their eyes were full of fear and worry. They knew that Hank was very angry. Hank was Luis's best friend though. And he deserved an explanation. He looked at Sheridan and said, "Do you mind if I talk with Hank for a few minutes?" Sheridan smiled, "No. It's all right. You can go talk to him." In Sheridan's mind, she didn't really want him to leave, but she knew that Luis and Hank needed to talk. Luis got up from Sheridan's bed and walked out the door with Hank. As soon as he shut the door behind him, Hank pushed Luis to the wall. "What the hell was that all about?!" Hank yelled. Luis said, "Hank! What is your problem?" Hank yelled, "You know very well what the problem is. You and Sheridan were kissing. I wanna know what's going on!" Luis said, "Well, Hank. It's not like it's the first time we've kissed." Hank's eyes got wide. "Oh. So you've kissed her many more times than that?" "Yes,. I have," said Luis. Hank looked disgusted. "You know... you never did explain to me how Sheridan ended up back here." Luis said, "Well, I'll tell you then." Hank crossed him arms and stared at Luis angrily. Luis said, "I went to Paris to find Sheridan. I found her in a hotel. Someone... shot her while she was in her room. I found her a few seconds after she was shot and I took her to the hospital. She was okay and then, we... took a flight back to Harmony, only the plane crashed on an island and we were stuck there for a few days. After we finally got rescued, we came back to Harmony." The anger in Hank's eyes faded. Luis had saved her life again. It wasn't the first time that Luis had saved her life either. Still, Hank loved Sheridan too. Luis said, "And Hank. I don't want to tell you this, but..." The anger returned to Hank's eyes. "What! What is it?" Luis said, "Sheridan said... that she loves me." Hank just stared at Luis and said, "What?" Luis cleared his throat. "She said... that she loves me." Hank didn't say anything. He stared at Luis with anger in his eyes. He was so angry at Luis, he didn't know what he was going to do. Hank turned around and ran out the door. Luis's face dropped in disappointment. He felt really bad for Hank. He knew that Hank liked Sheridan too. And he didn't want to be mad at each other.

He walked back into the room and sat by Sheridan. Sheridan looked at Luis's face and saw how sad he was. "Luis. Are you all right?" Luis choked back the tears. "Yeah. I'm fine." Sheridan hated to see Luis like this. It broke her heart. She took his hand and said, "I heard the whole thing. Ya know... now I feel like this is all my fault." Luis cupped Sheridan's head in his hands. "No, Sheridan. It's not your fault." "But if it wasn't for me, Hank and you wouldn't be fighting. You two are best friends and I hate to come between you." Luis smiled at her. She was so caring for his feelings, and Hank's feelings. Luis said, "Sheridan. It's not your fault. I love you, and that is all that matters. If I never met you, I don't know what I'd do." Sheridan smiled at Luis, "You are so wonderful Luis. I love you so much. Whenever I am in your arms, I feel so safe and warm. Whenever I am in your arms, I feel so happy." Luis could definitely tell that Sheridan loved to be close to him. Luis felt the same way. Luis took her in his arms and rested her head on his shoulder. They were both silent. They just swayed together and relaxed in each other's arms.

Then, Pilar came in with some tea. Luis and Sheridan pulled apart and looked at Pilar. Pilar had already seen them holding each other and she smiled to herself. 'They are so cute together.' She thought. 'They are a perfect couple.' Pilar said, "Luis. I brought some tea for Sheridan." Luis said, "Thank you, Mama!" Pilar brought the tea to Sheridan and sat the tray on her lap. "Oh, Pilar. You didn't have to do this for me." Pilar said, "Sure I did. You're a wonderful person, Sheridan. I am so glad that you're safe and back in Harmony." Sheridan hugged Pilar. "Thank you, Pilar. It feels great to be back."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 25: Friends and Family!

"Everyone will be so glad to know that you're back," Pilar said. A look of disappointment came over Luis's face. Sheridan noticed it. "Luis, what's wrong?" Luis squeezed Sheridan's arm and said, "After all that we've been through, I'm afraid about what might happen next. Alistair and Jullian tried to separate us for good. Who knows what they'll do next. Sheridan... be careful of Jullian." Sheridan saw deep concern in Luis's eyes. She knew that he was concerned for her. "I will," said Sheridan. Just then, Luis's beeper went off. He looked at it and said, "It's the police department. They want me over at the station. I'll call them and tell them I can't make it." Luis was about to walk out the door when Sheridan said, "Luis. Why can't you make it?" Luis said, "Well, I can't go out on duty when you're like this." Sheridan smiled, "I'll be fine Luis. Really, I will." Luis hesitated. He didn't want to leave her alone, but this could give him a good chance at becoming detective. "Go on Luis," said Pilar, "I'll take care of her." Luis smiled and walked over to Sheridan. He rubbed her cheek with his thumb and said, "I'll be back soon, okay?" Sheridan nodded. Luis walked out of the room and closed the door. Pilar stayed inside with Sheridan. She looked at her and said, "It is so wonderful to know that you're back, Sheridan," said Pilar. "Yes. It is very wonderful. Now I know that Luis was never using me. And it's all thanks to you, Pilar. If you never found out about it, than Luis and I would have never known." said Sheridan. Pilar said, "Well, I know that you and Luis have become very fond of each other." "Very much. You have raised a wonderful son, Pilar. He's the best man I've ever known." Pilar nodded, "Thank you Sheridan." Pilar felt Sheridan's head. Her fever was gone. "You seem to be better now, Sheridan." "I do feel better. Thank you." Pilar said, "Well, I'm going to go take a nap. If you need anything at all, just wake me." "All right, Pilar," Sheridan said as Pilar walked out the door. Sheridan sat up from the bed and looked around. This was Luis's room. This was the room of the man she loved. She could smell his scent all over the room. It soothed her and made her feel comfortable. She felt a little lonely though. She wished that Luis was there with her so she could lie in his arms. He had been gone for ten minutes and Sheridan already missed him like crazy. She knew that he had a job to do, but it still hurt her not to be with him. She needed someone to talk to. Someone to share her thoughts with. Then, someone came into her mind... Ethan. She could always confide in Ethan to talk to. She jumped out of bed and walked out into the living room. She went into Pilar's room to tell her that she was leaving, but she saw that Pilar was sleeping soundly and peacefully. Sheridan didn't want to wake her up, so, she left a note on the counter, telling her where she was going. She walked out the door and walked to the Crane Mansion.

At the Crane Mansion, Jullian and Ethan were in his office. Jullian said, "Son, how are you and Gwen doing lately?" Ethan said, "We're doing fine, father, and we can't wait until the wedding." Jullian said, "Well Ethan, I hope that you forgive me about suggesting that you go to bed with Pilar's delicious little daughter, Theresa. Ethan said, "I hope that you know now that Theresa and I will never be involved with each other." "Still, I can't believe you haven't noticed how incredible she is." "Father, Theresa is a very wonderful, beautiful woman, but I love Gwen. No one else." Jullian thought, 'Sooner or later son, the Crane instincts will come to you. You'll learn to be more like me.' Ethan said, "And I wouldn't talk about that anymore, if I were you. If her brother, Luis, found about what you're saying about Theresa, he will not be happy." Jullian laughed, "Ha. Luis will never know that Theresa is working in the mansion. Anyway, he's too busy, weeping over Sheridan's departure to Paris." Jullian laughed evilly. Ethan said, "I can't believe you don't miss Sheridan." "Oh, son. I miss Sheridan. I really do," lied Jullian. Ethan thought to himself. 'I haven't seen Luis and Sheridan sense they left the hospital. I hope that they made it home okay.' Ethan said, "Well, I have some work to do in my room. I'll be in there if you need me." Ethan left the room and went to work in his room.

A few minutes later, Sheridan burst into his room. Ethan turned around and saw Sheridan. She closed the door and walked over to Ethan. "Sheridan. You're back." They hugged and Ethan said, "What took you guys so long to get back from Paris? I thought you'd be here before me." Ethan and Sheridan sat on the bed. "Well... Luis and I got stranded on an island. We ran into some poachers who tried to kill us. We escaped and then the rescue team came and got us. Then, we went back to my house and Luis took care me because I was sick." Sheridan said quickly. Ethan stared at Sheridan with wide eyes. "Wow." Sheridan laughed. Ethan said, "We'll it's wonderful to know that you're back in Harmony. And Luis was never using you." Sheridan said, "Yes. It's great. This time, I won't ever leave Harmony again."

At the Lopez-Fitzgerald house, Luis got home from the police department quickly. He was eager to see Sheridan. He couldn't wait to wrap his arms around her and kiss her. Luis got into the house and saw that Pilar was sleeping. He was a little upset by this, because she was supposed to be at Sheridan's side, even though he didn't really say that. Luis went into his room with a smile on his face. It slowly faded away when he saw that Sheridan was gone. He looked around. "Sheridan? Sheridan?" He walked into the kitchen and saw a note on the counter. It said......

Dear Luis, I was feeling a little lonely, so I decided to go to the Crane mansion to see Ethan. I will be back soon. I love you. Love Sheridan. Luis felt a chill go down his spine. She was at the Crane Mansion. If Jullian saw her, she could be in big trouble. Luis grabbed his coat and ran out to the car. He raced off to the Crane Mansion.

At the Crane Mansion, Ethan and Sheridan were talking about Luis. Sheridan said, "I feel so bad for ever doubting Luis. It looked so real to me that I was positive it was really Luis. I can't believe that Jullian and Alistair would stoop that low. To hurt me like that." Ethan said, "I'm very angry at father as well. I can't believe they would do that to you." Sheridan said, "Well, when I'm not angry enough to rip his head off, I will talk to him." Just then, Luis burst into the room. Sheridan and Ethan looked up in shock, but they were relieved to see that it was only Luis. Sheridan stood up and Luis closed the door and walked over to her. He took her hands. "Sheridan. What are you doing here?" Sheridan said, "Well, I came to talk to Ethan." "You can't be here." "Why not, Luis?" Luis cleared his throat. "Because, if Jullian finds you here suddenly, you could be in trouble. I don't want them to hurt you." Sheridan was about to speak, when they heard Jullian coming. Jullian was yelling. "Ethan. I need to talk to you." Luis and Sheridan looked at each other with fear in their eyes. "We've got to hide somewhere." said Sheridan. Luis and Sheridan looked around, but there was no place to hide. They heard the door knob opening, so they jumped behind the door and held each other tightly. Jullian came in. "Hi son. I was hoping that you could sign these contracts for me by tomorrow." Ethan was a little uneasy because he could see Sheridan and Luis behind the door. If Jullian turned around the wrong way and saw them, they would be in trouble. Ethan took the papers and said, "Sure father... I'll take care of them." Ethan led Jullian to the door, being careful that he didn't see Luis and Sheridan. Jullian walked out and Ethan shut the door. Luis and Sheridan sighed as they walked out from behind the door. Sheridan said, "That's a relief." Just then, Jullian burst into the room! "Oh and Eth__." He saw Luis and Sheridan standing right in front of him...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 26: Family Feud!

Julian stared at Luis and Sheridan anger bowling in his eyes. He thought, 'What the hell is Sheridan doing here, and with Luis? She's supposed to be in Paris.' Sheridan tried to hide her fear by smiling. "Uh, hi Jullian." Jullian tried to hide his anger. "Hello, sister dear. What are you doing here?" Sheridan said, "Well, that's a little cold, Jullian." 'No, no. I'm glad to see you're back. It's just that... I thought you weren't speaking to Luis anymore." Sheridan remembered how she found out that Jullian had set up an imposture. She said, "I did, until I found out what was really going on." Jullian felt a chill go down his spine. Sheridan crossed her arms and stared at him with anger in her eyes. She walked up to him until they were about a foot apart. Luis felt a little uneasy about what Jullian might do, but he stood there silently. Sheridan said, "I can't believe you Jullian. I can't believe you would set up and imposture and convince me that Luis was using me. How dare you hurt me like that?" Jullian was now more angry than worried. "All right. I admit that I did it. But it was for the sake of the family. I am not going to let you two get involved." Luis stepped up. "Well, there's nothing you can do to stop us, Mr. Crane." Jullian looked at Sheridan and Luis. "What do you mean?" Luis cleared his throat and said, "We love each other." Jullian was silent. They could see the anger heating up in his face. He looked like he was about to explode, and he did. Suddenly, he pushed Luis with such force, that he ran into Ethan and they both flew across the room and hit the wall on the other side. After Jullian had pushed Luis, he threw Sheridan up against the wall and clutched her neck in his hands. He began to choke her. He squeezed her neck as hard as he could. She tried to pry his hands from her neck, but he lifted her from the ground and she was pressed against the wall, being choked. She tried to gasp for air, but Jullian's hands were choking her harder and harder by the second. Sheridan thought, 'It's over. I'm going to die.' Luis looked up and saw that Jullian was choking Sheridan. Fear and panic came into his eyes when he saw Sheridan hands fall to her sides and her eyes slowly closing. "NO!" He yelled as he got up and ran towards Jullian. He punched Jullian in the face and Jullian went flying. Luis caught Sheridan in his arms as she fell. Sheridan sat on the ground in Luis's arms, gasping for air. Luis looked at her and said, "Sheridan, are you all right?" Sheridan tried to speak, but it was so hard for her. She was so weak and she was gasping for air. She whispered, "I... feel... so... weak." Luis cradled her in his arms and looked up at Jullian. "You bastard." Jullian got up. There was blood running from the side of his jaw. Luis said, "How could you try to kill your own sister? You'll pay for this, Crane!" A smile came on Jullian's face. "You can't do anything to me, Lopez-Fitzgerald." Luis gathered Sheridan into his arms and picked her up. He walked to the door and turned to face Jullian. "Now, you listen to me, and you listen well. If you ever, EVER, lay a hand on her, or even come near her for that matter, you'll regret it. I promise you that!" With that, Luis turned away and walked out of the Crane Mansion with Sheridan cradled in his arms. Luis noticed that Sheridan had a lot of bruises and cuts on her neck, and she was still panting. She was very very weak and could hardly speak. Luis decided to take her to the youth center, because it was very close by. It had more medical things that they didn't have at his house. He drove Sheridan to the hospital and carried her into her youth center. He walked into his office and placed Sheridan on the sofa in the room. He grabbed the First Aid kit and sat by Sheridan's side. He looked at her face and saw that tears were streaming down them. "Hey, hey. It's okay, Sheridan. I'm here for you," he said as he wiped the tears away from her face. Sheridan said, "Luis. I thought I was gonna die. I thought it was over for me." Luis said, "I would never let anything happen to you, Sheridan. I love you." Tears were flooding out of Sheridan's eyes. She started to sob. Luis whispered, "Shhh. It's okay, Sheridan. It's okay." Luis examined the back on her neck. Sheridan quivered when she felt his breath on her skin. It made her feel so safe. Luis pulled back and put a cloth with water on it. After he removed it, he looked into Sheridan's eyes. She was still crying. He hated to see her in pain. Dame that Jullian. Luis was going to make him pay for what he's done to Sheridan. No matter what it took. Luis looked into Sheridan shining eyes and said, "Is there anything I can do?" Sheridan reached out her arms and said, "Just hold me, Luis. Just hold me." A tear went down Luis's cheek and he gathered Sheridan into his arms. She rested her head on his shoulder and cried. "Shh. It's all right, Sheridan. You're safe." Luis clutched her tightly against him and held her head in his hand. He stroked her hair and softly kissed her on the neck. He wished that he could make all the pain go away. He wanted to make her happy. And he intended to do so...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 27: Tonight is the Night!

Luis held Sheridan in his arms as she cried. He could feel her shaking against his body. It broke his heart. He hated to see her in pain. He could tell how frightened she was. She was afraid of her own family. Luis knew that the Crane's were bad, but he never thought that they would be capable of trying to kill one of their own. All they cared about was protecting the family name, they didn't give a damn about Sheridan. As Luis rocked Sheridan slowly in his arms, Sheridan's fears began to fade away. She felt Luis's arms wrapped tightly around her, rubbing her back. She loved to feel his strong, muscular arms around her. They made her feel so safe and warm. Sheridan would give anything if she could just stay in Luis's arms forever. Luis looked down and saw that Sheridan had a small smile on her face. He lifted her chin up to him and put his forehead against hers. "There's that beautiful smile!" Luis saw Sheridan's eyes light up again as she laughed. Sheridan dried her eyes and said, "I was so scared, Luis. I really thought I was going to die. I thought it was over." Luis cupped Sheridan's face in his hands and said, "No, Sheridan. No! Don't ever think like that. I will never, ever let anything happen to you. I promise." Sheridan smiled, "I know. It just... it really scared me." Luis saw deep into her soul and saw all the pain she was going through. He had to be more understanding. "I know, Sheridan. I was scared too. But the love that we have for each other, can never be torn apart, never. Not by anyone, or anything." Sheridan smiled. He always had a way to make her feel better. Sheridan said, "Thank you Luis. You're always here for me." "I always will be," said Luis. Sheridan noticed that he looked very deep in thought when he said that. Luis turned to Sheridan and said, "Sheridan. Would you go out this me tonight?" Sheridan instantly replied, "Yes. I'd love to." Luis said, "Great. I have a wonderful surprise for you tonight."

Sheridan smiled seductively. "A surprise, huh?" Luis smiled, "Yeah." Sheridan said, "Oh. But I can't wait that long. Please, tell me." "Nope, sorry. Can't do it. You'll have to wake for later." Luis got up and started to walk out, but Sheridan ran infront of him and blocked the door. "I can't wait, Luis. Please?" Luis smiled and rubbed his thumb on her chin sexily. "Trust me. It'll be worth the wait." Luis moved Sheridan aside and walked out. Sheridan stared at him as he walked away and wondered, 'What is he up to?'

At the Crane Mansion, Jullian was talking to Alistair about the little quarrel that happened earlier. Jullian had an ice pack on her jaw and his cheek was marked with dry blood. "I'm telling you Father. This is getting way out of hand. All of a sudden, Sheridan finds out about the impostor and makes up with Luis. Then, Luis punches me in the face and threatens me never to come near Sheridan again." "Well, what do you expect Jullian. He so-called loves the girl. At this point, he would do anything to protect her, even from you. And Sheridan would do the same thing for Luis. Our plan to separate them, only ended up making them closer than ever." Jullian said, "Well, what do we do, Father?" Alistair said, "I'm working on some ideas of my own. Call me back if something bad happens." Alistair hung up.

At Sheridan's cottage, Sheridan was getting ready for her date with Luis. She was so excited about this surprise Luis had, that she wasn't able to think about anything else. Whatever Luis had in mind, it sure sounded good. Sheridan was more than just curious. She was in agony trying to figure out what it was. She reminded herself that Luis said it was worth waiting for, so she figured she could wait to find out. Sheridan slipped on a beautiful, black dress. It was a simple dress, but with some small diamonds around the sleeves and the collar. She put on her favorite perfume and made sure that her hair and make-up were perfect. She kept checking the mirror every few minutes to see if she needed to make the slightest fix up. She waited impatiently for Luis to come.

At Luis's house, Luis had just finished shaving and gotten dressed. Theresa walked into her brother and noticed that he looked really snazzy tonight. She knew that Luis was out on a date. "Woah, Luis. What are you dressed up for? Are you out on a date?" Theresa smiled flirtatiously and Luis blushed. "Yes, I am!" Luis poured himself a cup of coffee and Theresa said, "Oh. With Sheridan I bet. It is so great that you finally worked things out with her." Luis put his hand in his pocket and shuffled something around. "Yeah. I have something very important to ask her." Theresa said, "Well, I think that you two make the perfect couple." In Theresa's mind, she was really saying... 'Luis, If you go out with Sheridan, then you won't be mad if I get involved with Ethan. h, how sweet it is.' Luis smiled. "Well, I have to go pick up Sheridan. See ya later, sis." "See ya, Luis," Theresa said as he walked out the door. Theresa ran to the phone and dialed a number. Whitney picked up the phone. "Hello?" "Whitney, it's me. You won't believe it." "Let me guess... fate has come to you're rescue again and you still have a chance with Ethan." Theresa rolled her eyes. "No, Whitney. It's Luis." "What about him?" "He's going on a very romantic date with Sheridan." Theresa lifted her eye brows up and down as she said it. "Seriously? Wow. I never thought Luis would get involved with a Crane." "Nether did I, Whit. Luis seems like he is totally in love with Sheridan. I have a feeling they could end up together."

Sheridan was sitting on the sofa in her cottage impatiently, when she heard a knock on the door. She looked in the mirror one last time to make sure everything was perfect, then went to open the door. As soon as she did, she was greeted by Luis's dazzling smile and a beautiful red rose in his hand. She opened her mouth in amazement. Luis handed her the flower and said, "I'm sorry I couldn't find one as beautiful as you, but there was no such kind." Sheridan left her heart skip a beat. She smiled, "Oh, Luis. Thank you." Sheridan have Luis a small kiss and Luis said, "We have to hurry, if we are going to do everything I have planned." "When do I get the surprise?" Sheridan asked excitedly. "In a while," Luis teased. He loved to tease her. She was so cute when she was frustrated. Sheridan groaned. "Oh. Well, can't you give me a clue." Luis smiled, "Okay." He wrapped his arms around her and Sheridan felt herself shiver. "It is something that will make both of us very happy. It is something that I wanted to do for a long time. It will change our lives and other people's lives forever." Sheridan smiled sexily. "I'm liking this more and more." Luis said, "Well, we don't have time to stand here and talk. We have to get going." Luis took Sheridan's hand and they walked to his car. Sheridan had no idea where he was taking her, but she was totally excited. Luis pulled into the Sea Scape restaurant and helped Sheridan out of the car. "The Sea Scape?" "Yeah. I thought that it would be great to have dinner here with you." "Luis. This is so wonderful." smiled Sheridan. Luis lead Sheridan into the restaurant and they were escorted to their table. Luis had arranged for a beautiful candlelit dinner for two to be set up for them. It was beautiful. The There were beautiful candles sitting on each side of a delicious looking turkey, and there were yellow and white flowers scattered all over the table and the floor around the table. Sheridan's eyes lit up and said, "Oh my gosh, Luis. This is amazing." Luis laughed, "I'm glad you like it." He pulled out her chair for her and Sheridan sat down in the seat while starring deeply into Luis's eyes. Luis took their seat and they started to eat.

During their dinner, Luis and Sheridan talked about many things. Luis told Sheridan about his life as a little kid, and Sheridan told Luis about her memories in Europe. Luis was very fascinated by all of the things that Sheridan had done and had been through in her life. Sheridan was more interested in hearing about how life was for the Lopez-Fitzgeralds after Martin disappeared. After dinner, Luis said, "Okay, then. Would you like to go for a walk?" Sheridan replied, "Sure!" Luis paid the bill and they walked out of the restaurant. Luis was getting more and more nervous about what he was going to do. Sheridan and Luis took a walk by the wharf. They looked around them and saw that many couples were together. The stars were shining brightly above them. The water was so beautiful as the moonlight danced on top of it. It was the most beautiful night in Harmony. Luis and Sheridan never gave it a second thought. They were too interested in each other. They kept thinking about everything they had been through together and how wonderful the other person was. Suddenly, Luis covered Sheridan's eyes. Sheridan was a little startled, but she also was confused. "Luis? What's going on?" "You'll see in a minute." Luis said. Sheridan sighed with frustration. Luis lead Sheridan forward, still covering up her eyes. He took her to the most beautiful part of the wharf. There was a beautiful pier where you could overlook the ocean and see thousands of beautiful stars above. On the other side, you could see the lights from the houses of the other part of Harmony. He took a deep breathe and uncovered her eyes. Sheridan opened her eyes and gasped. She looked at the beautiful ocean with the stars shining brightly. It was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen. The full moon above them shined brightly onto them. Sheridan's eyes lit up with happiness. "Oh, Luis. This is so wonderful." She turned around and saw Luis bending down on one knee! Sheridan felt her eyes well up with tears. Luis said, "Sheridan, um... well, I don't really know where to begin. Well, all I know is that I love you. You are the most wonderful person I have ever known. All of the times we have shared together have been so precious to me. I savor every moment with you. I know that I have nothing to offer you. You're a Crane and I... I'm just a cop working at the Youth Center. But I do know that the only thing I can offer you, is love. Sheridan..." Luis reached into his pocket and pulled out a small box. Tears came rushing out of Sheridan's eyes. Luis opened the box and inside was a beautiful silver ring with a diamond on it. Sheridan gasped. Luis continued, "Will you marry me?" At that moment, Sheridan had on the biggest smile in the world. Tears were rushing from her eyes and she looked like she might faint. Luis waited hopefully for her answer. Sheridan finally managed to say, "Yes, Luis. I will. I will marry you!" Tears sprang into Luis's eyes. He jumped up and wrapped Sheridan in his arms. He kissed her with more passion than ever before. This was the happiest day of his life. He was so happy that Sheridan said yes. Sheridan was his fiancée. Luis pulled back from the kiss and took Sheridan's hand. He slipped the ring on her finger and tears came rushing down Sheridan's face again. Luis looked into her eyes and whipped away the tears. He kissed her passionately again and held her tightly, never wanting to let go...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 28: Together Always!

Luis and Sheridan kissed each other with more passion that they ever thought possible. They couldn't believe that they were finally engaged. Sheridan had been dreaming for so long that Luis would propose to her, and now her wish was coming true. She loved him with all his heart, and now, she knew that they would never be apart. They would be together always, no matter what Jullian or Alistair wanted.

Luis pulled back from the kiss and stared into her eyes. Sheridan saw tears running down his cheek. She whipped them away and asked, "Luis. Why are you crying?" Luis slowly shook his head and said, "I'm just so happy. You have made me the happiest man alive." Luis broke down again and embraced her. Luis held Sheridan so tightly, he was afraid he might hurt her. He finally pulled away and said, "I want to remember this night forever." Sheridan put on a seductive smile and said, "I think I know just the thing." Luis knew what she was talking about. "And what might that be," he asked flirtatiously. Sheridan said, "Come to my cottage and I'll show you." Luis was getting more excited than ever. He followed Sheridan out of the peer.

On the drive home, Sheridan stared at her engagement ring all the way home. Luis couldn't help but notice. "Sheridan. Why do you keep looking at that ring?" Sheridan sighed, "Oh. It's just the most beautiful ring I have ever seen in my life." Luis laughed, "Are you kidding? I bet that you Cranes have seen a lot more beautiful rings than that." Sheridan looked at Luis with an angry look in her eyes. Luis had a feeling that he had offended her. Sheridan put her hand on his leg and rubbed it slowly. "Luis, do me a favor?" Luis put his hand on top of her's. "Anything for you, my darling." Sheridan smiled, "Don't call me Crane!" Luis smiled, "Okay, sweetheart. But there will be no need. Very soon, you will be Sheridan Lopez-Fitzgerald." Sheridan's eyes fluttered. "It sounds so perfect." Luis stared into her eyes. "I just... can't believe this is happening. I was so lucky to have you." Sheridan stared into Luis's eyes and said, "I'm lucky to have you."

When Luis and Sheridan arrived at her cottage, they both got out. Luis raced around the car to greet Sheridan. Sheridan said, "We will have to tell your family about__," but she was cut off when Luis scooped her up into his arms. Sheridan laughed and gently stroked the back of his hair. Luis felt his heart quiver at feeling her touch. He opened the door and walked into the house. He walked into her room and walked over to her bed. At first, Luis just stood there, holding Sheridan in his arms, gazing into her beautiful arms as she gently stroked his hair. Luis loved to hold her, just as much as Sheridan loved to be held by him. He loved the feeling of holding her long, slender, sexy, beautiful body in his arms. It was like holding the most beautiful crystal in the world. He wanted her so badly right now, he didn't think he could take it any longer. Sheridan looked into his wonderful eyes. She softly caressed his cheek which was making Luis tremble all over. Sheridan couldn't take it any longer. She looked deeper into his eyes than ever before and whispered, "Make love to me. Make love to me now." Luis felt his heart skip a beat. He had been waiting for her to say those words for the longest time. He gently set her down on the bed and came down on top of her. At first, they gazed into each other's eyes. In an instant, Luis and Sheridan's lips met and they kissed softly. Their gently kiss quickly developed into a hungry kiss. Luis pressed his body tightly against her and Sheridan caressed Luis's face in her hands. Luis's hands were moving in all directions. In her hair, down her sides, across her back, across her hips, on her cheek, and on her face. They kissed for so long that they almost forgot to catch their breathe. When they did, they only stopped for about a half a second to pull each other into another kiss. Sheridan took her hands away from his face and carefully began to unbutton his shirt. Luis lightly moaned as she kissed his even more passionately. Once all the buttons her undone, Sheridan put her hands on his sexy chest, rubbing up and down it slowly. Sheridan brought his hands down and began to explore his torso. Luis was getting more and more excited. Sheridan pulled back from Luis's kissed and began to kiss his face, his neck, as he made his way down to his chest. Luis closed his eyes and breathed deeply as Sheridan reigned kisses all over his chest. Sheridan slowly made her way back up to her lips and kissed his lips. Sheridan brought her hands back up to his shoulders and suddenly, ripped the shirt away from his chest. She wrapped her arms tightly around his newly exposed, sexy chest. Luis took his hands to her neck and began to slowly take off her dress. Sheridan felt her heart quiver as he pulled down her strapped. He only pulled the straps down to her elbows, then, he took his lips away from her mouth and began to sexily kiss Sheridan's neck. Sheridan clung to him as tightly as she could while he passionately kissed her slender neck. Luis felt a chill go down his spine as he reigned kisses all over her neck. Luis finally took the dress off of Sheridan and started to caress her bare back and shoulders. Luis brought his hands down to her chest and began to carefully undo her bra. Luis ripped it off of her in a second. Luis wrapped is arms tightly around Sheridan's waist. Sheridan and Luis pulled back from their kiss and caught their breathe as they stared into each other's eyes. Luis said, "I can't believe how blessed I am to have you in my life. I want you so much, I never want to let you go." Sheridan passionately kissed Luis and they continued to undress each other. When they were completely undressed, Luis and Sheridan wrapped their bodies around each other. There hands and lips were everywhere. Sheridan laid her head back on the pillow and caught her breathe. Luis didn't want to stop. He kissed his way down her neck and kissed all over her chest. He made his way back up to her lips and kissed them ravenously. Luis opened her mouth with his lips and Sheridan sighed as he touched his tongue to hers. They felt like they were in heaven. That nothing or no one could ever keep them apart. Nothing could ever ruin this moment. This was their moment, their life, their time to remember forever. Making love to each other all night long. They continued to make love for the rest of the night. Soon, they fell asleep, lying in each other's arms. Warm, safe, happy, exhausted, and in love...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 29: Every Waking Moment!

At Sheridan's cottage, Luis and Sheridan were asleep. Sheridan was cuddled up to him with her hands resting on his chest. Luis's lips were softly brushing against Sheridan's forehead and his arms were wrapped tightly around her bare body. A ray of sunlight came through the window and it woke up Sheridan. Sheridan was a little startled at first, but then, she remembered last night when she made love to Luis. She looked down at Luis's arms which were wrapped tightly around her. She slowly shifted her head upwards to look at his face. She felt Luis's grip get a little tighter. She looked at his face. She saw that he had a small smile on his face. He looked so peaceful, so happy. She brought her hand up to his head and began to gently trace his face. She stroked his hair back and softly kissed him on the cheek. 'God, he's so wonderful,' she thought. Sheridan couldn't believe that she almost let herself forget about Luis. Luis had been so good to her, he had protected her, comforted her, and was always there for her. She loved him so much. She tried to think about what it was about Luis that she loved so much. His eyes, his smile, his face, his body, his sense of humor, his personality, his wits, his kindness, and so forth. Sheridan couldn't come up with which one she liked best, but she didn't worry about it, because all of those wonderful things were going to be hers forever. She was so happy that Luis finally proposed to her. When she saw him holding that ring in his hand, bending down on one knee, it was the most wonderful moment of her life. She looked down at her beautiful ring. 'From now on, Luis and I will never be apart. We are going to be together forever, and nothing or no one can stop that.' She looked at his beautiful face and kissed him softly on the forehead. She basically had to pry herself out of Luis's grip to get out of bed. She decided to go make some coffee. As soon as Sheridan left Luis's arms, he woke up. He looked over at her and saw her put on her robe. A feeling of disappointment came over him when he realized she was leaving the bed. Luis slowly sat up and hugged her. Sheridan jumped for a moment and then realized it was Luis. Luis hugged her tightly to him and said, "Hey, gorgeous." He kissed her on the neck and said, "Where do you think you're going?" "To make us some coffee," Sheridan laughed. Luis said, "Why don't you just stay here in bed with me?" Luis gently brushed his lips against her neck and breathed softly on it. Sheridan felt a chill go down her spine as she felt Luis's warm breathe against her neck. "Hummm. I would love to, but I have to get up." Sheridan tried to get up, but Luis pulled her down again. "Oh, no you don't." Sheridan laughed, but she was getting a little annoyed. "Come on, Luis. Let me go." Luis said, "And what do I get if I do?" Sheridan hesitated for a moment and then smiled, "You'll get me tonight." Luis instantly let go of Sheridan and smiled to himself. Sheridan finally got up and said, "Now, get dressed and I'll make you some breakfast." Luis sighed in disappointment as she left the room. He began to get dressed. After they made love last night, he never wanted to stop being near her. Everytime she left, it was like a big part of his life faded away. He loved Sheridan so much and he wanted to spend every waking moment with her... and more! Luis knew now that Sheridan and Luis were going to spend the rest of their lives together. They had plenty of time to share together. He wanted to savor the time he spent with her.

As soon as he finished getting dressed, his beeper went off. He looked at the beeper. It was from the Harmony PD. They wanted Luis to come to the station house right away. Luis groaned as he thought about leaving Sheridan, but it was his job. He ran out of the bedroom and saw Sheridan making breakfast. He came up behind her and Sheridan turned around and saw him with a sad look on his face. She asked, "What's wrong, Luis?" "The police station just paged me. They want me to get over there as fast as possible for some emergency. I have to go." A frown formed on Sheridan's face. "Now? Oh." Luis embraced Sheridan. "I know. I know. I don't want to leave either, but___." "But you have to do this. It's for your family. I understand." Sheridan pulled back from Luis and looked into his eyes and she rubbed his chest. "Just... don't take too long." Luis took Sheridan's hands and kissed them gently. "I will. And thank you for being so understanding." Sheridan smiled, "Well, we have our whole lives to spend together, now don't we." Luis smiled. He kissed her softly and walked out the door. Sheridan watched the door close and she sighed. She didn't want him to leave, but she knew that it was Luis's job. He had to do this. He was doing this for his family. That was one of the things that she loved about Luis. He was so caring for his family. Always there for them when they needed him. She sure wished her family could have been like that. Her family had always treated her badly and she never felt like she had a real family. She suddenly remembered how Jullian tried to separate Luis and her. How he tried to trick her and break her heart. Her own brother. Sheridan had fire in her eyes as she remembered what a truly awful person her brother is. 'I'm going to go over there and give Jullian a piece of my mind.' She quickly got dressed, grabbed her coat, and ran out to her car.

When Sheridan got to the Crane Mansion, she stormed into the house. She slammed the door behind her. No one was home but Jullian, so no one heard her come in. She ran to Jullian's office and opened the door. Jullian was standing at his desk when she stormed in. He looked up and saw her standing there, with an evil look in her eyes. Jullian was angry himself. "Well, if it isn't our little Sheridan." Sheridan shut the door behind her and walked up to his desk. "I can't believe you, Jullian. I can't believe you would do this to me. You tricked me into believing that Luis was using me this whole time. You are a low life bastard." Jullian walked around his desk and went to pour himself come brandy. He sighed, "Sister, dear. It doesn't matter whether of not I tricked you. Father will never allow you to get involved with him." Sheridan rolled her eyes. "Oh my gosh. You know what Jullian? Neither you, nor father can tell me how to live my life. I'm a grown woman and I can take care of myself. You know what, you don't even care about me. All you care about is the stupid Crane Empire!" Jullian lied, "You know that's not true. Father and I care about you and you know it." "Oh, cut the bull, Jullian. Nothing can ever separate Luis and me now." Sheridan pointed her finger at Jullian as she talked and Jullian saw her ring. A chill went down his spine. "What is that?" "What is what?" "That ring you're wearing." Sheridan looked down at her ring and looked back up at Jullian with an evil smile on her face. "I guess you haven't found out yet." Jullian's eyes got wide and he prayed that it wasn't what he thought it was. Sheridan continued, "Luis and I... are engaged." Jullian squeezed his glass so hard, it exploded in his hands. He was silent. He stared at Sheridan with anger in his eyes and his face was turning red. Without a word, he slowly walked up to her. Sheridan stood her ground. In an instant, Jullian slapped Sheridan so hard across the face, that she fell to the floor. Jullian ran to his desk and opened a drawer. Sheridan watched as she saw Jullian pull a gun out.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 30: Choices!

Luis was driving home from the police department. He had just arrested a muggler and he was very hapy because this would look great on his record for becoming detective. Luis raced back to Sheridan's cottage to tell her the news. He couldn't wait to get there and kiss her and hold her in his arms. It seemed like that was all Luis thought about all day... Just holding her sexy, beautiful body in his arms forever. She was so beautiful, not to mention that she was great at making love. Luis had never felt this way about anyone before. He was so happy that they were engaged. All he wanted to do right now, was go home and make love to his beautiful fiancee. Little did he know that she wasn't home. She was at the Crane Mansion, with Julian.

Sheridan shot up on her feet as she saw a gun in Jullian's hand. Sheridan ran around the couch and ducked. Jullian ran towards the couch and said, "You bitch!!! You've ruined the Crane Empire." Jullian walked around the other side of the couch where Sheridan was. Sheridan quickly walked to the other side of the couch to get away from Jullian. Jullian tried to chase her, but she kept crawling away. They looked like little kids, playing tag. Jullian had enough of this little game. He turned over the couch and Sheridan fell back. Before Jullian could do anything, she ran up and grabbed the gun. She tried to grab it out of his hand, but he was holding on to it too tightly. They both fought as hard as they could for the gun. Sheridan and Jullian pushed so hard, that the gun flew in the air and landed behind the desk. Jullian was about to jump and get it, but Sheridan tackled him to the floor. Jullian reached back and punched Sheridan over. Jullian and Sheridan fought with each other without giving up. They both looked like they were little kids, only trying to kill each other. Jullian looked like he was succeeding. He had hit Sheridan many times in the face. She had some bruises on her head and there was a mark of blood on the side of her mouth. As they fought with each other, they turned over chairs and papers. The room looked like a complete mess. There quarrell went on and on for what seemed like an eternity.

Back at Sheridan's cottage, Luis knocked on Sheridan's door. He had a single red rose inhis hand. He got it for her because it reminded him of her. So beautiful, soft, and perfect. It was also Sheridan's favorite flower. He knocked on it and called, "Sheridan. Are you there?" There was no answer. "Sheridan? Come on. Open the door." Luis turned the knob and it was open. He walked in. Everything was the way it was last time. He walked into her bedroom. "Sheridan?" She wasn't there. He went into the bathroom, the kitchen, everywhere. She wasn't there. Luis looked around. "Where can she be?" Then, he saw a note on the kitchen counter. It read...

Dear My Darling Luis,
I decided that I would go to the Crane Mansion to have a heart-to-heart talk with Jullian. Won't he be surprised to know that we are engaged. Well, anyway, I will be back shortly. I hope you had a good time at work. I'll see you later, and I love you.
Your truly, Sheridan

Luis stared at the note in shock. He set the note down and thought, 'Oh no. Sheridan's with Jullian. She could get hurt. I have to protect her.' Luis grabbed his coat and ran out the door. He jumped into his car and drove to the Crane Mansion as fast as possible.

At the Crane Mansion, Sheridan and Jullian were still fighting. Jullian kicked Sheridan into the book shelf. Sheridan was starting to become very frightened and she ran out of the library. Jullian grabbed his gun from behind his desk and followed her. She went out into the living room and ran behind a door. When Jullian came in, she suddenly jumped on him from behind. Jullian fired blank shots in the air to scare her. Sheridan was riding on his back like a horse. It looked funyy, but through out the whole thing, Sheridan was scared to death. If she didn't get out of there, she could be killed. A million memories ran through her mind. The time when she danced the tango at Pilar's birthday party, the time when Luis saved her in New Mexico, when they danced with each other on New Year's Eve, going on their first date, skating on Valentine's Day, kissing on the wharf, Luis saving her life in Paris, Luis telling her that he loved her, Luis and Sheridan having fun together on the island, making love to each other, getting engaged. Those were some of the most wonderful memories that Sheridan had. If she died now, she would never be able to make new memories with Luis. They were going to get married, and she had to survive, for Luis. She knew that if she died, Luis would go crazy. She couldn't put Luis through that pain. She had to live. She would fight for her life, whatever it took. Jullian suddenly swung Sheridan off of his back and onto the floor. He pointed his gun at her and a tear went down Sheridan's face. She curled up in a ball on the floor and covered her head with her arms. She prepared to die.

Suddenly, the door opened. It walked Luis. He looked around and he saw that Jullian was hovering over Sheridan, with a gun pointed at her. He knew that she was in trouble (yet again) and knew that he had to do something. He lunged himself forward and tackled Jullian to the floor. Jullian instantly knew who it was and he began to fight back. Jullian and Luis fought like lions in a raging fight. Sheridan had no idea what was going on. Her head was still covered by her arms. When she noticed that Jullian wasn't killing her, she looked up and noticed that he was no there. She heard some screaming behind her and jumped to stand up as she turned around. She saw Luis's face and cried happily, "Luis!" Jullian looked at Sheridan and took out his gun. He took a shot at Sheridan and it hit her in the arm. Sheridan screamed in pain and Luis became even more angry. He tried to kick and punch Jullian. He would do anything in his power to protect Sheridan. Anything. He had waited for so long to teach Jullian a lesson, and now, it was finally happening. Jullian's gun fell out of his hand and fell towards Sheridan's feet. Jullian turned Luis around and nailed him against the wall. He took out his knife and put it to his chest. Luis almost stopped moving. 'Oh no.' He thought, 'This is it. I'm finished. Oh Sheridan, this is all my fault.' Sheridan saw what was happening and she picked up the gun at her feet and pointed it to Jullian. "Let him go, Jullian. Or I'll shoot." Jullian turned his head around and saw Sheridan pointing the gun at him. He hesitated. Sheridan yelled, "Let him go, Jullian. NOW!!!" Jullian smiled evily, "You wouldn't shoot me. Your own brother. You wouldn't do something like that." "If you hurt Luis, god help me, I'll kill you!" Tears started to stream down Sheridan's face. Luis looked at her and saw the pain in her eyes. He just wanted to hold her tightly to his chest and comfort her. Jullian stoof up and started to walk towards Sheridan's slowly. "You wouldn't do that to me, Sheridan. You wouldn't murder someone. That isn't like you." Suddenly, Jullian started to attack Sheridan. In an instant, Sheridan pulled the trigger!!! Sheridan mouthed dropped open as Jullian fell to the ground (Imagine him falling in slow motion.). Jullian hit the ground with a loud thud. Tears ran down Sheridan's face as she looked at her lifeless brother, laying in a pool of blood. Luis sat up and ran into her arms. He began to cry as well. "Sheridan. My Sheridan. I'm so sorry!" Sheridan didn't say anything. She just stared down at her dead brother in shock. A few tears trickled down her face. Luis felt her shaking against his body. He wrapped his arms tightly around her and held her close to him. He sat down on the couch with Sheridan wrapped in his arms. Sheridan was too shocked to speak...

To Be Continued...

Sequel to "Always There For You"...... "Through Thick and Thin!"

Through Thick and Thin

Chapter 1: What Have I Done?

Luis held Sheridan tightly in his arms. He grabbed her and embraced her tighter and tighter and he cried over her. Sheridan looked over Luis's shoulder in shook at her dead brother lying on the floor. She looked like she had just been paralyzed. She slowly looked down at the gun in her hand. She let it slip out of her fingers and it fell to the ground. The gun landed with a loud thud that echoed through Sheridan's mind. Tears began to flood down Sheridan's face. She didn't make a sound. She just stood there... staring at her dead brother. 'Oh my gosh! What have I done?' Suddenly, Sheridan remembered the time when she was a little girl.

**FLASHBACK**

Sheridan is a little girl and she is walking in the living room. She goes up to a desk where she sees a letter opener. She picks it up and examines it carefully. In her mind, she thought, 'This is very interesting. It's so sharp.' Suddenly, she heard someone coming through the window. She ran behind a corner, still holding the letter opener. She watches as a dark figure walks into the room. Sheridan became frightened. 'Oh no. Someone's breaking into the house. They might hurt me, or my family. What should I do?' Then, Sheridan looked down at her letter opener. A look of fire appeared in her eyes. 'I have to protect my family. I can't let that man hurt them or me.' Then, she walked up to the man while his back was turned and stabbed him in the back. The man fell to the ground and quickly died. Sheridan mouth dropped open and tears flooded into her eyes when she realized what she had done. The next thing she knew, she was standing in front of a body covered with a bloody sheet. She had blood smeared all over her hands. Sheridan cried out, "I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I didn't mean it." A voice replied, "Yes, you did, Sheridan. You did." "No, No, NO!!!"

**REALITY**

Sheridan took her eyes off of her brother's body and started to cry out loud. Luis held her even tighter. "Shh. Sheridan. It's all right! Everything's gonna be okay. I promise." "What have I done?" Sheridan cried, "What have I done?" "Sheridan, please don't cry. You saved my life. You saved me from Jullian." Sheridan cried louder, "I never meant to kill him. I only meant to scare him or injure him so he would leave you alone. I couldn't let him hurt you, Luis. I tried to keep him away from you. And now, I've killed him!" Sheridan cried even harder and she began to collapse. Luis tried to stand her up, but it was no use. Luis sat down on the floor with Sheridan in his lap. She rested her head against him chest as Luis's slowly cradled her in his arms. He kissed her forehead and began to cry as well. 'My poor, sweet Sheridan,' he thought, 'After all you've been through, for this to happen is just too much for me to bear. I thought that I would mark the day as a national holiday, the day that Jullian died, but to see you like this, it makes me wish that he wasn't dead.'

Luis got out his cell phone and called the hospital and told them about what happened. In a few minutes, the police and the ambulance arrived. There were several police in the room that were investigating. Luis sat on the couch with Sheridan and held her tightly in his arms. Sheridan wasn't crying anymore. She was now in complete shock. She wasn't speaking or moving, and she was shaking. Luis tried to comfort her, but it was no use. Then, Sam came up to him. "Luis. Can I talk to you alone, for a second?" Luis looked up at Sam. He nodded down at Sheridan as he said, "Can't it wait?" Sheridan finally spoke, "It's okay, Luis. You can talk to Sam. I'll be okay." Sheridan voice was so shaky and raspy, it was hard to make out the words. Luis said, "You sure?" Sheridan replied, "Yeah,' as she slowly pulled back from Luis. She got up and walked out to the balcony. Luis watched her go with pain in his eyes. He got up and walked into the living room to talk with Sam. "What is it, Sam?" Sam said, "Jullian's still alive!" Luis sighed with relief and he was amazed that he did this. Luis smiled a little and Sam looked a little puzzled at his reaction. "He has been taken to the hospital. We can go there and know soon enough, what happened." Luis said, "Thank you, Sam. Sheridan will be happy that he is okay." Luis began to walk away, but Sam grabbed his arm. "Luis. I need to know... what happened? How did he get shot? Why?" Luis didn't say anything. Sheridan was already in pain as it is. He didn't want to add any more pain to her right now. If he told Sam about it, Sheridan would get questioned." Luis said, "I'll talk to you about it later, Sam." He said as he walked away. He left Sam there, who still had a confused look on his face.

Luis walked out to the balcony and stopped at the doorway. He saw Sheridan crying on the ramp. His heart jumped at the thought of how much pain she was in. He knew that she never had a real relationship with Jullian. Jullian and Alistair didn't give a damn about her, or anyone. That was one of the things that made Luis hate them so much. But even so, Jullian was Sheridan's brother. Her own flesh and blood. She must feel so awful, thinking that she was responsible for her own brother's death. Luis walked up to her and turned her around. Luis looked at her face. Her cheeks were red from her crying and she was pale and looked like she was going to faint. Luis put his arms around her and held her tightly against him. Sheridan calmed down a little, now that she was in Luis's arms. Luis didn't say anything for a few minutes. He just stood there, rocking her back and forth, swaying together. Then, Luis said, "I have some good news. Jullian's alive." Sheridan practically jumped out of his hands. A small smile came across her face. "He is? Oh, thank god. I didn't murder him." Sheridan threw her arms around Luis and Luis smiled, now that she was a little more happy. Luis said, "We can go to the hospital and see how he is." Sheridan was at the door before he finished his sentence. Sheridan jumped in the car and Luis jumped in beside her. Luis held her hand tightly as they drove to the hospital, where another obstacle awaits.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 2: Guilty!

When Sheridan and Luis arrived at the hospital, Sheridan had calmed down a little. She just wanted to be sure that her brother was okay. Even though Jullian had been cruel to her, hurt others, and had tried to separate her and Luis, he was still her brother. Deep down inside, she really cared about him. She could never live with herself if she was responsible for his death. She already thought once before that she had murdered someone, and she wasn't even sure yet if it even happened or not. The thought of murdering someone still haunted her. She couldn't imagine what it would be like if she had murdered her brother.

"Sheridan? Sheridan!" Luis yelled for about the fifth time. Sheridan snapped back to reality and realized that they were parked in the parking lot at the hospital. Luis asked, "Are you ready to go in?" Sheridan smiled faintly, "Yeah." They stepped out of the car and walked into the hospital. With every step they took, something inside Sheridan was building up. She wasn't sure what this feeling was, but she knew that it wasn't anything good. Luis since it and put his hand on her waist. Sheridan smiled up at him as he softly squeezed her. The nurse led them to Jullian's room. Sheridan turned to Luis and said, "I need to be alone for a minute with Jullian, okay." Luis nodded, "Okay." He softly kissed her on the lips and went to wait in the waiting room. Sheridan took a deep breathe and walked in the room. She looked at Jullian, unconscious on the bed, and tears came into her eyes. She sat next to his bed. She looked at Sheridan and said, "I will never, ever forgive you for what you've done, Jullian. You have made people's lives miserable, you have hurt me, and you have almost destroyed my life with Luis. I should hate you more than anything in the world for what you've done, but you're my brother. I can't help but care about you. I didn't mean to hurt you like this. I only wanted to scare you, so you wouldn't hurt Luis. I never wanted it to come to this." Tears started pouring down Sheridan's face. "And now...... I'll never forgive myself." Sheridan put her head in her hands and began to cry. She didn't know that Luis was really standing outside the whole time, watching her. He came rushing in and ran to her side. He went down on his knees next to her and said, "Sheridan." Sheridan slightly turned her head up to meet Luis's wonderful eyes, full of concern and love. Luis looked into her eyes and saw all the pain she had been going through. He left so awful about all the pain she was going through. He couldn't take it. He put his arms around her and clutched her to his chest. Sheridan wrapped her arms around Luis and cried even harder. Luis stroked Sheridan's hair and rocked her slowly. "Shh. It's okay. It's gonna be all right." No matter what Luis tried, it was no use. Sheridan was in so much pain. All he could do was hold her, but that wasn't enough. Luis looked down at Jullian and saw that he was starting to wake up. "Oh my gosh. He's waking up." Sheridan turned around and saw Jullian stirring. She sighed with relief. Luis ran to get the nurse. She came rushing in and asked Sheridan to leave. "But he's waking up." "I'm sorry, madam, but you will have to wait outside the room." said the nurse. Luis took Sheridan's hand and walked her outside.

As soon as they were outside, Luis looked into Sheridan's eyes and was relieved to see that she was a little happier. He said, "It's all right now, Sheridan. Your brother's going to be fine." Sheridan smiled and looked into his eyes and said, "Thank you so much, Luis." Luis looked confused. "For what?" "For always being there for me." Luis wrapped his arms around her and Sheridan laid her head on his shoulder. He said, "I am always here for you, Sheridan. Whenever you need me, I'm always there for you. I love you." Sheridan smiled, "I love you too." They pulled back from their embrace and Sheridan said, "And now, nothing can separate you and me." Luis and Sheridan looked through the hospital window. Jullian's eyes were open and glaring at them with evil in them. Sheridan was a little afraid by this look. Luis was a little scared himself.

Luis and Sheridan walked into Jullian's room and the nurse left. They were all silent for a moment, then Sheridan spoke up. "It's so wonderful that you're okay." Jullian smiled evilly, "I find that hard to believe." Sheridan and Luis looked at each other, than back at Jullian. Sheridan asked, "What's that supposed to mean?" "You know very well what I mean. You shot me. You almost killed me. How could you do this to your own brother?" Guilt and pain began to grow inside of Sheridan again. Luis noticed it and said, "Jullian. Sheridan didn't mean to almost kill you. She was trying to protect me." Jullian shouted, "Oh, shut up, Luis. If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't even be here. You have turned my own sister against me." Sheridan's emotions turned from sad to angry. "Now, you listen Jullian. None of this is Luis's fault. I know that I did the right thing. I would never let you hurt Luis. And I never will." Jullian said, "Oh, come off it, Sheridan. Luis is just using you, like all the others." Luis yelled, "Okay, you listen to me, Jullian. I was never ever using Sheridan. I love her, with all my heart! She means the world to me and I will never let anything separate us!" "You don't have control over that, officer." smiled Jullian. Luis looked disgusted. "There is nothing you can do to separate me and Sheridan. We both love each other very much and we are going to get married." Jullian yelled, "Over my dead body!" Jullian turned to Sheridan. "Sheridan. You listen to me. From this moment on, you will not come anywhere near the mansion, or Ethan. You will stay away from the whole family and are never to speak to Ethan again. From this moment, none of us will except you as family. You will never be a part of the family again. Do you understand?" Tears started to run down Sheridan's eyes. Her mouth dropped open. Sheridan turned around and ran out the door in tears. Luis tried to stop her, but she was gone by the time he reached the door. He turned around and looked at Jullian angrily. He walked over to him and grabbed him by the collar. "You dirty bastard! How dare you do that to Sheridan?" Jullian pushed Luis's hands off and said, "I will not let anything get in the way of the Crane empire." Luis shook his head. "You are unbelievable. You don't even care about your own sister. Damn you, Jullian. You know, she was very upset when she thought she had killed you." Jullian yelled, "Tell someone who cares. I don't care about her." Luis was so angry, he wanted to rip his head off. He ran out of the room before he went crazy and went to look for Sheridan. Jullian sat in his bed as an evil smile spread over his face. "It's not over yet, Luis." he said to himself.

Luis finally found Sheridan crying hysterically outside. Luis ran over to her and took her into his arms. He massaged her back as he tried to grab her tighter, and tears started to flow down his face. He held Sheridan as close to him as possible. Sheridan cried out, "Why? Why is this happening to me? I can't take this Luis. I can't." Luis kissed her softly on the head and looked up into the sky. He whispered, "God, why are you doing this to her? Why are you making her suffer like this? Hasn't she been through enough? I can't stand to see her like this anymore." Luis pulled back from her and looked into her eyes. "I promise you, that everything will be all right. Jullian cannot rule your life. You can still talk to Ethan. Jullian will never know. You are still part of their family, and soon, part of mine. I promise to you that everything will be okay." Sheridan smiled up at him. He always had a way to make her feel better. She said, "Luis. Can I ask you something?" "Sure." "Can we just leave town? Let's move somewhere else. Let's get out of this town, away from all the troubles we face. I just want to be happy, with you." Luis smiled, "Of course. I want nothing more than to get away from everyone and be with you." Sheridan hugged him tightly. Luis pulled back from her and said, "We had better go inside. The police officers want to talk with us about something." Sheridan nodded and they walked back inside, hand in hand. They walked down the hallway and they saw some police officers talking to a nurse. They turned around and saw Luis and Sheridan coming. They ran up to them and Luis and Sheridan stopped. Luis put him hands in his pockets and said, "So, what did you want to say?" The lead police man cleared his throat. He grabbed Sheridan by the arm and pulled her forward. Luis's mouth dropped open. "What the__?" Sheridan was shocked as well. The police said, "Sheridan Crane! You're under arrest for attempting murder!"

To Be Continued...

Chapter 3: The Getaway!

Luis and Sheridan's mouth practically drop to the floor as they heard the police officer say, "Sheridan Crane! You are under arrest for attempting murder." Luis reached out for Sheridan and pulled her away from the police officer. "Sean, what are you talking about? Sheridan never attempted murder." "That's not what Jullian said Luis. He said that Sheridan tried to attack him. Now, I have to arrest her." The man reached out to grab Sheridan again, but Luis pulled her out of his reach. Sean had an annoyed look on his face. He yelled, "If you don't let her go this instant, I will have you fired." Luis felt his heart pounding. What was he going to do? He couldn't loose his job, it would be the end of his family's future. If he gave in, Sheridan would be thrown in jail, for no good reason. Before he could think about it, Sean grabbed Sheridan again and tried to pull her forward. Luis looked into Sheridan's eyes and saw all the pain that she was going through. It made his heart break. Suddenly, he pushed Sean over and took Sheridan's hand. He started to run, pulling Sheridan along with him. "Let's get out of here!" Luis yelled as they ran down the hall. Sean was lying on the ground. He pointed out and said, "Get them!" The other police officers ran after them as fast as they could. Luis was in panic. He knew that he had to get Sheridan out of there fast. He didn't even know where he was going to take her. Sheridan and Luis dodged the doctors and people in the hall. The police officers weren't so successful. They were bumping into people all over the place. When Luis and Sheridan got out of the hospital, they ran to his car. Luis and Sheridan jumped in. Luis turned on the car and they were out of there in a second. The police officers saw them drive off and they jumped into the police car and went after them. Sheridan was panting when they drove off. Luis took her hand. "Don't worry, Sheridan. I won't let them arrest you." Luis looked paranoid. All he could think about was getting Sheridan out of their as fast as possible. When he heard the sirens behind him, he knew that it would be a lot harder to save her. Luis shouted, "Damn!" as he saw the police cars following them. What was he going to do now? The police were on his tail. He had no idea where to go. Where was he going to take Sheridan? That would have to wait until later. First, Luis would have to loose the police cops. He looked around outside and saw that there was a kind of steep cliff on the side of the freeway. Part of the ramp had been broken off. Just enough for a car to get through. Then, Luis got an idea. He looked over at Sheridan who was trembling with shock. If he did what he was planning to do, Sheridan might get hurt, but he had to do something to save her from going to jail. He reached over and put his arm around her. He pulled her close to his chest and pressed her to his body as tightly as he could. Luis said, "Hang on, Sheridan!" Sheridan wrapped her arms around Luis's waist and waited for the worst.

Luis's car went faster and he ran straight off the cliff. Sheridan felt as if her heart had stopped. Luis clinged to Sheridan as hard as he could. He tried to cover her entire body in order to protect her from any harm. He was afraid about what might happen to her. The car landing on the cliff and started to roll down the steep hill. The car banged around and the car was falling faster and faster. Sheridan's eyes filled up with tears. At that moment, she felt like she was going to die. There had been so much things in her life that she wanted to do. To marry Luis, raise a family, live a happy life. She was too young to die. But she wouldn't die any other way. If she had to die, she would want to die in Luis's arms. That was where she belonged. The car almost made it down the cliff. The cliff became a little more narrow. Luis looked in front of him and saw that they were headed straight for a tree. Luis pulled back from Sheridan and opened both of the doors. He looked at Sheridan and yelled, "Jump, Sheridan!" Before Sheridan had time to respond, Luis pushed her out the door and he jumped out the other side. Sheridan landed with a loud thud as she heard the car explode. When she landed on the ground, she covered her head from the explosion. Sheridan curled up into a ball and quietly sobbed. After the noise had died down, she collapsed on the ground. She was in major shock. He breathed deeply as tears slowly fell from her face. She laid her head on the ground and tried to calm herself down. After a while, she smiled. 'I'm alive.' she thought. She sighed with relief. She relaxed on the ground and looked around. They had ended up at the edge of a forest. Sheridan looked up and saw where they had gone off the cliff. The police were looking off the edge. Sheridan froze. If she didn't move, than the police would think that they were dead. She tried to stay as still as possible until the police went away. Then, she relaxed. She thought about what she felt like when she was going down that cliff. She felt like her whole world was about to be destroyed. Like her life was about to end. Even through all that pain, it felt great to be in Luis's arms. Then, it hit her... Where was Luis?

Sheridan looked around and panicked. She started to breathe loudly again. "Oh my gosh. Where is Luis?" She sprung up to her feet and looked around. She couldn't see Luis. Sheridan felt tears fall down her eyes again, worrying that he was hurt. Sheridan yelled at the top of her lungs. "LUIS!!! LUIS!!!!!!" Sheridan cried even harder. She ran around the other side of the car (or what was left of it) and looked around. She suddenly saw him. He was lying on the ground unconscious, many yards away from where the car had crashed. He ran a streak of blood running down his face. Sheridan ran to his side. "Luis! Oh my god! Luis, please, speak to me!" She sat on the ground next to him and lifted his head onto her lap. She looked down at Luis's face. It was badly bruised and he looked like he was dead. Tears from Sheridan's eyes fell onto Luis's face. "NOO! Luis, please don't leave me. Speak to me, please!" She stroked back his hair and began to sob. "This is all my fault! If it weren't for me, none of this would have happened. Luis risked his life for my happiness, and now, he... he... he's dead." Sheridan looked up to the sky and yelled, "Why? Why did you have to take him away from me? I can't take it anymore..." She turned back down to Luis. She put her head down to his face and brushed her cheek against his face. She continued, "I can't take it. Please, don't take him away from me." Sheridan had never cried harder in her life. She was loosing Luis. The one true love of her life. What would she do without him? She would give anything for him to be alive again. She would lay down his life for him, and now, he laid down his life for her. Now, he was gone. She had lost him...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 4: Miracles!

Sheridan cried over Luis. She couldn't believe that she was actually loosing him. After all that they have been through together, for this to happen was just too much for her. Now, what was she going to do. She couldn't live without Luis. He was her life. She loved him with all her heart, and they were engaged. Sheridan could never live her life, being apart from Luis. She felt so lost and afraid, like the whole world was collapsing around her. She pulled Luis up and rested his head on her chest. Sheridan stroked his hair gently and rocked him slowly. She held him as close to her as possible. Luis was laying his head against her breast, when he opened his eyes.

At first, Luis didn't move. He didn't remember where he was. He looked around and saw that they were at the edge of the forest. He saw his car that had crashed into a tree and was in flames. Then, he remembered what happened. Being at the hospital, Sheridan almost getting arrested, Luis whisking her away from the police, driving over the edge of the cliff and into the tree. He then noticed that he was lying tightly in Sheridan's arms. He couldn't see her, but he could smell her perfume. It was such a wonderful smell. It smelled like roses and sunflowers. No one else ever smelled like that. At first, he smiled at being in Sheridan's arms. Nestled tightly against her chest. He could hear her heart beating rapidly. Suddenly, he realized that she was crying. He stood still as tears fell from Sheridan's eyes and onto his face. Luis was a little confused. Sheridan whispered, "What have I done? This is all my fault! If I wasn't for me, nothing would have happened to you. Oh, Luis. You can't leave me. You can't. I love you! Please, come back to me. I can't go on without you. Please, stay with me. Please, forgive me for what I've done." Luis almost felt like crying, of sadness and happiness. Hearing Sheridan say these beautiful words about him were so wonderful. And yet, he hated so much to see her in pain. Now, since he was awake, there was no reason to upset her more. Luis said, "There's nothing to forgive!"

Sheridan froze for a moment. She pulled back and looked into his liquid brown eyes. Luis looked at her face and saw that she had been crying hysterically. Her eyes and cheeks were swollen. Even through all that, she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. Sheridan cried, "Luis." as she threw her arms around his neck. She cried harder. "Oh, Luis. You're okay. You're okay. Please, don't ever leave me again. Please!" Luis wrapped his arms around her and hugged her close to him. "Shh! It's okay, Sheridan. I'm here! Everything's gonna be all right!" Sheridan was clinging to Luis so tightly, it was like if she let go, he would disappear. Luis tried to pull back to look into her eyes, but Sheridan clinged to him like glue. Sheridan cried, "I thought I'd lost you. I thought you were gone! I'd never be able to live with myself if anything happened to you." Luis whispered, "Hey. Hey. Shh. It's all right, Sheridan. I'm here now. I'll never ever leave you. I love you and nothing can ever change that." Sheridan said, "Yes. But I thought... I thought you were..." Sheridan was silence as Luis's finger came over her lips. "Shh! I know. I know!" Sheridan said, "If anything happened to you, I would never be able to go on without you." Luis finally was able to pull her back a little so they were a few inches apart. Luis stared into her beautiful sea blue eyes and said, "Nothing can ever stop true love. Not even death!"

Sheridan smiled and pulled Luis in for a passionate kiss. She kissed him with all the passion she had inside of her. Luis kissed her back. Sheridan left his lips and went down his neck. Luis sighed at the touch of her kisses. Luis would give anything to stay like that forever. Sheridan unbuttoned the three top buttons of his shirt and kissed his chest. Luis wished that he could freeze time and stay like this forever, but he knew that they had to get out of Harmony, before they got arrested. "Um, Sheridan?" "What... is it... Luis?" Sheridan said between kisses. "We have to go." "Now?" "We have to get out of Harmony, before the police find us." Sheridan stopped kissing him and looked into his eyes. She was smiling now and she seemed to be back to normal. Luis was so glad that she was happy and safe again. "You're right Luis. Let's get out of here!" Luis helped Sheridan up and they began to walk. Luis said, "The only problem is, how do we get out of here. I mean... we don't have a car now." Sheridan said, "I don't know...... wait! We can take the Crane jet. The airport is only about a mile from here. We can take the jet out of Harmony." Luis smiled, "You read my mind!"

They walked to the airport and made sure that there were no police men around to see them. They were fugitives now and they couldn't take any chances of being caught. They went into the airport and ordered the Crane jet to be fueled up. They got on the jet very shortly and waited to take off. Sheridan and Luis sat on the couch in the private jet. Luis looked over at Sheridan. She was drinking some tea. She looked like one of those Victorian ladies who always drank tea and sat with their legs crossed perfectly. She was the perfect lady. Luis looked at her beautiful face. Just the sight of her took his breathe away. She was so gorgeous. All Luis wanted to do was kiss her and touch her long, sexy body, and make love to her for eternity. He was glad to know that they would be together forever. She was his forever. They were engaged and Luis couldn't wait to be a couple. Sheridan looked over at Luis and saw him staring at her. "What, Luis? Luis? LUIS?" Luis snapped back into reality. "What?" "What's up with you, Luis? You look like you're a million miles away." Luis smiled, "From now on, I will never be any more than a ten feet away from you." Sheridan smiled at him. 'God, he's so wonderful.' Sheridan scooted up to him and embraced him. Luis wrapped his arms around her and was trying hard to keep control. He was loosing it quickly. He could smell her perfume and the feel of her body made him tingle all over. He breathed down her neck and Sheridan began to loose control too. Luis and Sheridan pulled back a little, so that they were an inch apart. They stared into each other's eyes for a moment, then they kissed each other passionately. Their kiss started out slow, but it intensified quickly. Luis clutched Sheridan tightly to him, caressing her hip and her back softly. Sheridan had one hand behind his head, caressing the back of his neck. The other was trailing up and down his back. Then, Luis lost complete control. He went wild. He kissed her fiercely. He reigned kisses all over her face and down her neck. Luis slowly moved Sheridan back onto the couch and he was on top of her. Sheridan slipped her hand under his sweater and began to run her hand across his bare back and Luis lightly moaned. Luis unbuttoned her shirt and didn't bother to take off her shirt. He reigned kisses all over her chest and her neck. Sheridan was in heaven. She never wanted to end this. Suddenly, the speaker came on and said that they would be taking off in a few minutes. Luis and Sheridan tried quickly to gain control. It was hard, but they succeeded. Luis and Sheridan got ready for take off. Happiness filled in their eyes. They were off to start their new life together, in Paris.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 5: El Paris!

At the Lopez-Fitzgerald's house, Miguel, Theresa and Pilar are sitting in the living room talking. Miguel asked, "Mama! Where's Luis?" Pilar said, "You didn't find out?" "About what? What happened? Is Luis okay?" Theresa and Miguel both had looks of panic on their faces. Pilar said, "No! Luis is all right! Well, Jullian tried to shoot Luis." Miguel and Theresa gasped. Pilar quickly continued, "But then, Sheridan saved his life, by shooting Jullian." Theresa put her hands over her mouth. "Oh my gosh! Is Mr. Crane all right?" Pilar said, "Yes. He is, but Sheridan is devastated about it. She thinks that she almost murdered her brother." Miguel said, "I hope that she gets over it. I mean, she did the right thing by saving Luis." "She knows that, Miguel. She just wishes she didn't have to." said Pilar. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. Pilar went to answer it. She opened the door and saw the police standing there. Up in front was Sean. Pilar became nervous. She said, "Sean. What are you doing here?" Sean said, "I have to talk to you, Pilar. About your son." Pilar froze. She sensed that whatever was up with Luis and Sheridan, it was not good.

Sheridan and Luis waited on the airplane as they flew to Paris. They barley spoke to each other. Sheridan gazed out the window at the ocean below. She thought that it was so beautiful. That was one of the things she loved about Europe. Everything was so beautiful, especially the ocean. Luis looked over and watched Sheridan staring out the window. She looked so happy and peaceful. For once in a long time, she actually looked happy. Luis would make her to happiest woman on earth. He didn't want her to go through any more pain. 'God. This woman is so amazing.' Luis thought, 'When we first met each other, I never thought that I would end up falling in love with her. When we first met, all we did was fight. We never took the time to really get to know each other. Now, here I am. Eloping with Sheridan in Paris. What an amazing adventure we have been having? I do admit that it has been tough, but I would never trade it for anything in the world, if it meant not being with Sheridan.' Luis took Sheridan's hand and Sheridan turned around and smiled at him. Luis asked, "What are you looking at?" Sheridan asked, "What do you mean?" Luis pointed to the window. "Well, you have been staring out that window for a long time. What's out there that fascinates you so much?" Sheridan sighed, "Oh. I've just forgotten how beautiful the ocean is. It's the most beautiful thing I have ever seen." Luis said, "Have you looked in the mirror lately?" Sheridan looked confused. "Where did that come from?" Luis said, "Well, the ocean can never be as nearly as beautiful as you." Sheridan blushed and looked down at her feet. "Oh come on Luis. I'm not that beautiful." Luis lifted her chin with his fingers so she could look into his eyes. Luis said, "Yes, you are Sheridan. You're the most wonderful, kind, giving, beautiful woman I have ever met. I'm serious." Sheridan smiled, "Thank you, Luis. You aren't so bad yourself." Luis smiled and hugged her. Sheridan's eyes fluttered as she felt Luis's arms around her. "I can't believe that this is happening," she said. "What?" asked Luis, still hugging her. Sheridan replied, "I can't believe that we're actually together. I never thought that I would find true love, but I did. Even with all the pain I've been going through, just being with you makes it all worth it. I love you so much." Luis pulled back from her and kissed her on the forehead. He leaned his head against hers and said, "I love you too Sheridan."

"Oh... well, come right on in, Sean." said Pilar. Sean and the two other police men walked in. Pilar closed the door and followed them into the living room. Miguel and Theresa looked at the police with confusion. Pilar asked, "Do you want anything to drink?" Sean said, "No thank you. I am here to talk to you about your son, and Sheridan Crane." "Wha... what about them?" asked Pilar. The men sat down on the couch and Pilar sat in a chair. Sean said, "Well, at the Harmony hospital, we tried to arrest Sheridan Crane..." Theresa jumped out of her seat. "What? Arrest Sheridan? Why? She didn't do anything!" Sean said, "She tried to kill Jullian." Pilar said, "Sean. There has been a misunderstanding. Sheridan didn't intentionally try to kill Jullian. She would never do that." Sean said, "We happen to have evidence and witnesses that Sheridan attacked Jullian and tried to kill him. Maybe you don't know her as well as you thought." Pilar said, "I won't believe it. I won't believe that about Sheridan!" Sean said, "Well, anyway, Luis ran off with Sheridan and tried to get away. They ran over a cliff to get away from us." Pilar said, "Oh my gosh. Where is he?" Sean said, "Luis and Sheridan are dead." Everyone was silent. After a few moments, tears began to roll down Theresa and Pilar's cheeks. They shook their heads. Theresa whispered, "No. No, it can't be true! It can't." "I'm sorry," said Sean. Pilar burst into tears. Miguel and Theresa ran to her side and they hugged each other. They cried together. Sean got up and said, "I'll leave you alone now. I'm sorry to tell you this." Pilar said, "Thank you, Sean." Sean left and Theresa, Miguel and Pilar cried over the loss of Luis and Sheridan. Little did they know that Luis and Sheridan were still alive.

The Crane jet landed in Paris and Sheridan and Luis got off the plane. They told the people at the airport that no one was to know where they were. Not even their families. The people agreed and Sheridan and Luis left the airport to look for a place to stay. Sheridan said that there was a small cottage that she knew in Paris. She said that there was a lake by it and it was very beautiful. She had stayed their before and she loved it. Luis agreed. They went to the cottage. Luckily, the cottage was empty and no one was using it. Sheridan threw her coat on the floor and fell onto the couch. Luis walked over to the couch and knelt down. Luis's face hovered over Sheridan who was staring up at him. Sheridan played with his hair as Luis rubbed his thumb up and down her soft cheek. Luis said, "It's been quite a day, hasn't it." Sheridan smiled up at him. "Yeah. I'm so happy to be free of everyone in Harmony." Luis said, "It just feels so good to have you all to myself." Luis kissed Sheridan. Sheridan laughed became it was a little awkward sense she was upside down. Sheridan sat up right and looked into his eyes. At first, they just stared deeply into each other's eyes, reading their souls. It was like they were communicating through thoughts. Luis felt his heart rate speed up as he looked into Sheridan's beautiful eyes. His eyes moved down towards her lips. He wanted so badly to kiss her. He went back up to her eyes and stared at them. He could see a sense of hunger in her eyes. Something he had never seen in them before. Those eyes were full of passion, love, and happiness. He wanted her so badly, he couldn't take it anymore. Luis put his arm on her hip and leaned in. He kissed her softly on the lips and it quickly became more and more passionate. Luis sat on the couch next to Sheridan and wrapped both of his arms around her. Sheridan kissed him back. She had one hand running through his hair, while the other lay on his chest. Sheridan rubbed Luis's chest and it made Luis loose control. He squeezed her tightly to him and kissed her with more passion than he ever thought possible. He slowly move her back on to the couch. Luis lay on top of her as he continued to kiss her. Sheridan run her hands around his torso and Luis was going crazy. He wanted her so much, he was going insane. He quickly unbuttoned her shirt and threw it off of her. He left her lips and began to reign kisses all over her neck. Sheridan closed her eyes and sighed as she felt Luis's breathe on her. Sheridan was loosing control as well. The way that Luis's kissed her, was like hypnotizing her. She couldn't stop kissing him. She loved him so much. She put her hand under his shirt and started to pull off his shirt, when his shirt was off, Sheridan ran her hands up and down his incredibly sexy chest. She pressed herself against his body. Luis gathered Sheridan up into his arms and carried her to the bed room. He walked her over to the bed and laid her down on the bed. He came down on top of her and continued to kiss her. He reached around behind her back and unsnapped her bra. He threw it off of her and they continued to undress each other. When they were completely undressed, Sheridan left Luis's lips. She went to his cheek and then to his neck, making her way to his chest. Luis moaned lightly as Sheridan kissed his chest. Sheridan made her way back to Luis's lips and kissed them passionately. Then, they made love to each other...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 6: Life With You!

Rays of sunlight shot through the window and into Luis's eyes. Luis woke up and covered his eyes from the sun with his hands. He moved his head away from the light. He laid his head back down on the couch. He closed his eyes and began to drift off to sleep. After last night, he never wanted to leave that bed. Sheridan and he had made wild passionate love last night. He smiled while thinking of the feelings he had while holding her in his arms, pressing her tightly against his body. He never wanted that night to end. After they had made love, Luis wanted to continue to make love to her, but she felt asleep in his arms. Luis wanted to wake her, but he decided to let her rest. She had had a long, hard day. Besides, they were going to spend every night together from now on. Luis realized that Sheridan was not lying in his arms when he woke up and he was a little disappointed. He missed the touch of her body. He missed the smell of her perfume and her beautiful smile. He missed holding her in his arms. He wanted to greet her with a proper good morning. He turned over on his bed and looked where Sheridan had been sleeping. He was surprised when he realized that Sheridan wasn't there. Luis sat up and looked around the room. "Where's Sheridan?" he wondered.

He got out of bed and put on his boxers. He walked out to the living room and looked around. She wasn't there either. He looked all around the house and Sheridan wasn't there. Luis became a little worry. Suddenly, he heard a splash outside. He ran out the back of the house. He saw a beautiful lake with a dock that led to their backyard. Luis saw a head pop up from the water. It was Sheridan. He sighed with relief as he ran towards the dock. Luis walked across the dock and watched Sheridan. She didn't hear him coming, so she played around in the water like a little kid. Luis laid down on the edge of the dock and peered his head over the side as he watched Sheridan. Sheridan splashed around and played around. Then, Luis said, "Is this what Crane's do normally?" Sheridan was startled and she jumped back. She saw Luis smiling at her. Sheridan replied, "Only when they are very happy," said Sheridan. "And what is it that makes you so happy, Sheridan?" asked Luis. Sheridan gave Luis a seductive look. She swam over to him. Without a word, she reached up, grabbed his arms and pulled him forward. Luis was a little shocked that he screamed. Luis fell into the water with a splash. When Luis came up from the water, Sheridan was laughing. Luis shook off the water and said, "Sheridan. What was that for?" Sheridan said, "Well, you asked what made me so happy." Luis said, "Oh. So pulling me in the water makes you happy." Sheridan walked over to Luis and put her arms around his waist. She smiled and said, "You had to be in here before I could tell you... well, actually, show you." Sheridan leaned forward a gently kissed Luis's lips. Luis wrapped his arms around her and responded hungrily. There kiss became much more intense. They kissed passionately. Luis and Sheridan's bodies were pressed up tightly against each other. They were loosing control quickly. Luis left Luis's neck and trailed kissed down her neck and her chest. Sheridan giggled and said, "Luis. We better stop this." "Stop what? Showing... you... how much... I love you." Luis said between kisses. Sheridan said, "We can't start this now." Luis continued to kiss her neck and her face. "Why... not? I could... hold you... like... this... forever." Sheridan said, "I wish the same thing, but I'm starving to death. Let's go eat breakfast." Luis said, "Can't. Busy being with my beautiful wife." Luis pulled back and looked into her eyes. "No. Wait. It's not official yet. Being with my beautiful fiancee." Sheridan flashed a killer smile at Luis and he kissed her again. Sheridan turned around to walk out of the water, but Luis wrapped his arms around her waste and clutched her to his chest. He continued to kiss her neck and her back. "Luis." Sheridan moaned. "I'm sorry, Sheridan, but you started it. You kissed me first." "What difference does that make?" asked Sheridan. Luis said, "You should know better. I can't control myself from you. You make me go crazy. As soon as I start kissing you, I can't stop." Sheridan said, "Am I worth the wait?" "Oh course you are." "Then, wait until tonight." said Sheridan. Luis immediately stopped. "Okay." he said quickly. Sheridan laughed and they walked out of the lake hand in hand. They walked back up to the cottage.

They went inside and started to make breakfast. Sheridan was an excellent cook. Luis sat at the table, waiting for Sheridan to make some pancakes. Sheridan said, "I hope you like chocolate!" Luis looked confused, "Chocolate? What does that have anything to do with pancakes?" Luis sat up and walked over to where Sheridan was cooking. He looked on the stove and saw that she had put chocolate morsels on top of the pancakes. The morsels were melting on top of the pancakes. Luis said, "What's this?" Sheridan said, "Don't tell me you've never had chocolate chip pancakes?" "Can't say I have." "Oh my god. Then, you are in for a big treat. Chocolate chip pancakes are the best. Wait until you try them." Luis stared at Sheridan and admired her. She never seized to amaze him. Luis hugged Sheridan around the waist and said, "You amaze me Sheridan." Sheridan hugged him back and Luis went back to the table. When Sheridan came back with the pancakes, she set them down on the table. Luis hesitated for a moment. Sheridan took her knife and spread the melted morsels on her pancake. Luis took his knife and copied what she was doing. Finally, he cut off a piece of the pancake and took a bite. "Mmm. Wow. This is excellent." Sheridan smiled, "I'm glad you like them." Luis gobbled down all of the pancakes in a minute. Sheridan only ate one pancake and she saw how much Luis loved her pancakes. She gave the rest of him and went to take a shower. Luis watched her leave the kitchen and thought, 'I'm so lucky to have her.'

At the Crane Mansion, Jullian and Alistair were talking about Luis and Sheridan. "Now what do we do father. We have no idea where they went." said Jullian. "Not even Pilar or Ethan knows where they are." "Mmm. They must have left town." "But... father. Where would they go?" Alistair said, "I'm not sure Jullian. But my first guess would be Paris. That is the last place that they think someone would look." "Yes, Paris. Perfect. I'll fly up there and...... father. If I go up there, what then. Luis and Sheridan are inseparable now. What can I do to keep them apart?" Alistair thought for a moment and then laughed. "Jullian. I seem to remember a little girl who "killed" a man when she was a child." Jullian smiled, "Yes. That's a capital idea father. I'll go to Paris, and... and... what do I do?" Alistair laughed, "You will confront them and tell Luis that Sheridan killed someone as a child. That she killed Luis's father. Luis will be so upset, he'll break off their engagement and never speak to Sheridan again." Jullian smiled, "Yes. Once and for all, I will put an end to Sheridan and Luis's romance. And this time, I will not fail."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 7: Unexpected Visitor!

Sheridan got into the shower and let the hot water ran down her body. She smothered herself with soap suds and it helped to soothe her. She was so happy to be here, and with Luis. Everything that had happened to them, they were able to overcome it. Sheridan knew that no matter what happened, nothing could keep them apart. Even if she did kill someone when she was a child, Luis could always love her. And she would always love him. Sheridan closed her eyes and softly sighed as she thought about Luis. She hugged herself and daydreamed about raising a family with him...

**DREAM**

Luis is sitting down at a dinner table and Sheridan is putting some dinner on four plates. It is a beautiful wood table with silver candles, nice silverware and plates, and little yellow flowers all around. "Mmm. Smells good!" Luis says. "Thank you honey." Sheridan replies. Sheridan yelled, "Roxanne! Marcus! Dinner's ready." Two little kids scream as they run to the table. Marcus had been playing in the mud outside and Roxanne's hair was very messy and her clothes were wrinkled. Sheridan looks at them in disapproval. "I thought I told you two to dress up nicely for the evening." Marcus said, "But, mommy. We don't like wearing all that fancy stuff." They take a step towards the table. Sheridan shakes her finger, "Ah, ah, ah. No dinner until you get cleaned up." Roxanne whines, "But, mommy!" "Roxanne. Don't argue." Says Sheridan. Roxanne looks over at Luis. "Daddy. Do we have to?" Luis laughs and said, "You better do what your mother says." Marcus groans and Sheridan says, "All right. Go upstairs. Hurry now." Roxanne and Marcus head upstairs to get dressed. Luis stands up and walks up to Sheridan. "What a wonderful family we have," he says as he wraps his arms around her waist. Sheridan's back is to him and Luis rests his chin on her shoulder. Sheridan turns in his arms so that she can face him. "Yes, We do," she said, "We are so lucky." Luis smiles and kisses her.

**REALITY**

Sheridan can almost feel his arms around her. Suddenly, she realizes that his arms really are around her. She gasped slightly and turns around to see Luis standing there (keep in mind, he is only wearing a towel. Grrr!). "Hey, you. You have been in the shower forever. How about letting me have a turn?" Luis says. Sheridan laughs. "Sorry, Luis. I have to get these suds out of my hair. It could take a little while." Luis smiled seductively and said, "Well, maybe I can help you with that." Sheridan smiles and says, "Oh, really. I sure could use some help." She turns back around and Luis had his hands around her waist. He slowly took off the towel he was wearing and climbed into the shower with her. Luis kissed the back of Sheridan's back and breathed on her neck so much that Sheridan laughed. Luis turned her around her pressed her up against the wall. His face was inches from hers. They smiled as each other and Luis kissed Sheridan passionately. He slowly moved from her lips to her cheeks. He worked his way down to her neck. Sheridan arched her neck as Luis kissed it and she moaned his name softly. Sheridan closed her eyes and almost drifted away as Luis kissed her all over. She was in heaven.

Else where in Paris, Jullian was leaving the airport. He had just gotten off the plane and was going to find Sheridan. He looked at a map in his hands and said, "Sheridan usually spends her time in Paris at a cottage on the other side of town. If bet anything that she's there with Luis." Jullian's face turned red as he thought of Luis. He wanted to destroy him. And if that meant destroying his relationship with Sheridan, than so be it. He put the map in his pocket and said, "I have to get over there, and end their relationship now." Jullian got into a cap and it drove off.

At the cottage, Luis and Sheridan had gotten out of the shower. They got dried off and cleaned up. Sheridan and Luis walk out into the living room. "This is so wonderful, Luis. It is so amazing that we are going to have a future together." Luis cupped Sheridan's face in his hands. "I know. It's amazing." Luis shoo his head as he smiled, "God, I love you so much Sheridan. I want you to know that no matter what happens, I will always love you... forever." Sheridan said, "I love you too Luis. I'll always love you. Nothing can ever change that." They leaned in to kiss, but a knock on the door stops them. Sheridan looked confused. "I wonder who that can be." Luis says, "Why don't you go get it, I'll be right back." Luis headed to the bathroom as Sheridan goes to answer the door. She opens the door and her mouth drops open when she sees Jullian standing there.

"Jullian? What the__." Jullian lets himself in. "Hello, sister dear." Sheridan closes the door and walks up to him. "What the heck are you doing here?" Jullian said, "Putting an end to your relationship with Luis." Sheridan steps closer to him. She is a few inches from his face. She stares at him with anger in her eyes. "Oh, please. You have tried that many times, and it had never worked. There is nothing you can do to keep Luis and ma apart. We love each other." Jullian said, "He won't love you after I tell him what happened." Sheridan's eyes grew wide with fear. "What? What happened?" Jullian said, "A little child. Stabbing someone with a letter opener. Blood covering her hands." Sheridan shook her head. "You wouldn't dare!" "Oh wouldn't I." said Jullian. "Even if you did, Jullian, Luis will always love me. No matter what happened." Jullian said, "Not when he finds out that the person you killed was his father." Sheridan's mouth drops open. "What? You told me that it was a nightmare. You said that I never killed anyone." Jullian smiled, "I lied. You did kill Martin Fitzgerald. We just didn't want you believing it." Sheridan said, "Luis will never stop loving me. He loves me and I know that. Nothing can ever keep us apart."

Luis comes out to the living room, looking down at the floor as he walks. "Who was at the door?" he asked. He looks up and sees Jullian. Fire begins to burn in his eyes. "What the hell are you doing here, Jullian?" Luis says as he walked over to Sheridan. He wraps his arms around her and pulls her away from Jullian. "Get the hell out of here." Luis says. Jullian said, "I am hear to tell you something. Something about Sheridan." Luis lets go of Sheridan and steps up to Jullian. "You know what Jullian. I have had it. There is nothing you can do to keep us apart. I love her, with all my heart. I don't care what you think, say, or do. Nothing can change the way I feel about her." Jullian said, "It also has to do with your father." Luis looked back at Sheridan in confusion and than back at Jullian. Sheridan bit her lip and looked down at the floor, afraid of what Jullian might say, and how Luis would react.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 8: Confessions!

Luis looked at Jullian with an angry and confused look on his face. "What does Sheridan have anything to do with my father?" Jullian said, "She has to do with your father's disappearance." Luis looked back at Sheridan and saw that she had a shocked look on her face. "What do you mean? What could I possibly have to do with Martin's disappearance?" Sheridan asked. Jullian looked at Luis and said, "When Sheridan was a little girl, she was in the Crane Mansion living room. She heard someone come threw the window, a burglar. She took a letter opener and stabbed the burglar in the chest. The man died shortly afterwards. My family got rid of the body. That man who Sheridan killed... it was your father." Luis was silent. He felt as if his head was about to explode. His heart began to pound furiously. After a moment, he looked over at Sheridan. "Is it true, Sheridan?" He said through his tears. "Did you kill me father?" Sheridan eyes weld up with tears. She couldn't bear to lie to him. "Yes. Yes... it's true. I did kill your father. I was told that it was only a dream, that I didn't really kill someone, but now I know that it's true. I didn't mean to Luis. I didn't know." Luis face became angry. A few tears fell from his eyes and he slowly shook his head at Sheridan. He turned around and grabbed his coat. He ran to the door. Sheridan said, "Luis, wait." The door shut before she could say anything. Sheridan collasped on the floor and broke down into tears.

Jullain looked down at her with an evil smile. "I warned you, Sheridan." he gloaded. Sheridan looked up at him with eyes full of sadness and anger. "You bastard! How could you do this? I hate you!" She threw a book at Jullian. Jullian stepped to the side and the book hit against the wall. He said, "I'm not the one who killed someone. I'm not the one who killed the family member of someone I love. You did that. You destroyed Luis." Jullian ran out the door. Sheridan broke down into sobs again. She tried to gasp for air between cries, but she couldn't. It was getting hard for her to breathe. She thought that she would die of sadness. Luis was gone. He hated her now. She wouldn't be surprised if he never spoke to her again. He probably didn't want to marry her. She looked at the ring on her finger. It was the most beautiful ring she had ever seen. Not because of what it looked like, but because of what it symbolized. It symbolized everlasting love. Loving someone forever and no obstacles could ever come between two people. It symbolized true love between each other. Telling each other how much they love each other. It was from Luis. The man she loved. He gave that ring to her from his heart. Now, as she looked at the ring. It almost seemed to be breaking into pieces, just like her heart. She took of her ring and threw it on the floor. "What have I done?" Sheridan cried, "It's all my fault." She couldn't take this anymore. She needed to get out of here. She knew that Luis would have to come back to the cottage to get his stuff, so she left him a note. She grabbed her coat and left for a walk.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 9: Lost!

Luis walked along a wharf by a lake. Tears came rushing down his eyes, thinking about what had just happened. 'I can't believe it. How could Sheridan keep something like this from me? I trusted her.' Luis wiped the tears from his eyes. He continued to walk down the wharf, thinking about what he would do next. He looked around him. The stars were shining brightly above him. The only sound he could hear were the sounds of crickets softly chirping. Luis looked over on another side of the wharf. He saw a couple kissing beneath the stars. The couple was holding each other tightly in each other's arms. They were staring into each other's eyes. The man reached out him hand and brushed a piece of hair out of the woman's face. Then, the couple kissed passionately. This was so painful for Luis that he turned away. He remembered some good times with Sheridan...

**FLASHBACK**

Sheridan is in the bed at Martin's cabin. She is talking to Luis. Luis says, "Sheridan. You have to get some rest." Sheridan says, "No! I'm afraid." "Afraid?" "I'm afraid that if I close my eyes, you'll disappear and break my heart." Sheridan cried. Luis said, "What are you talking about? I'm not going anywhere." Sheridan said, "Take my hand." Luis put Sheridan's hand in his own. Sheridan said, "Promise me, that you won't leave me." Luis said, "I promise... but I think you have me confused with somebody else." Luis reached over to pull the blanket over Sheridan, when suddenly, Sheridan pulled him into a kiss.

Then, Luis remembered when they kissed on the wharf in Harmony. Luis heard a sound behind him and turns around to see Sheridan standing there. They both step towards each other. Luis couldn't take it anymore. He needed to kiss her. Sheridan started, "Luis, I__ I just wanted to..." Sheridan was cut off as Luis wrapped his arms around her and kissed her passionately. Sheridan felt her heart skip a beat.

Then, Luis remembered when he saved her from falling through some thin ice on Valentine's Day. Luis looked over and saw Sheridan skating towards the ice. "Sheridan!" Sheridan saw Luis and said, "Luis?" Luis got onto the ice and skated as fast as he could towards Sheridan. Then, he pulled Sheridan to the ground. Sheridan got up and Luis said, "I had to get ya... You were in danger... It's thin ice." Sheridan looked out at the ice. "Really?" she asked. "Yeah! The sign keeps getting knocked down but... everyone in town knows... that you can't skate on that part of the pond. It doesn't freeze like the rest... You could have fallen through." Sheridan smiled, "You saved my life, again!" Luis said, "Well..." "You did. I'm beginning to think that I can't get through my life without you." They stared deeply into each other's eyes.

**REALITY**

Luis sat on a bench nearby and rested his chin on his hand. He said, "I can't give up on Sheridan. I can't. I love her. I don't care what she did. She was only a child. And plus, Jullian could only be lying. But I will not give up on her. I love her too much. I admit that she should have told me sooner, but I can understand why she didn't. She was afraid to hurt me. And she thought it was a nightmare." Luis got up and said, "I have to go back to Sheridan. I have to apologize and ask for her forgiveness." Luis headed back to the cottage.

Elsewhere in Paris, Sheridan was walking in a park, thinking about Luis. 'I was such an idiot. I should have told him from the beginning about that night. How could I keep that from him? Now, Luis probably never wants to see me again.' Sheridan looked down at her hand where her engagement ring used to be, before she threw it off at the cottage. She felt so empty without that ring on. It made her feel completed loved, and safe. She felt so lost now. Sheridan sat down and cried silently. "I'll never forgive myself," she cried, "Now, I've lost Luis forever." She continued to cry.

At the airport, Jullian was getting on a plane to head back to Harmony. He was on the phone with Alistair. Alistair asked, "So, did you take care of Sheridan and Luis?" Jullian smiled, "Yes father. Now, both Sheridan and Luis think that Martin really was killed by Sheridan. You should have seen the look on Luis's face when I told him. He just ran out of the cottage and left Sheridan there." Alistair said, "Well, done, Jullian. But you have to be careful. We can't have anyone know what really happened to Martin. It would be the end for us." Jullian said, "Yes father," and hung up the phone. He thought, 'Now that Luis is mad at Sheridan, they will never have a future together. So much for true love.' Jullian laughed to himself and got on the plane.

Luis ran into the cottage. "Sheridan. Sheridan, where are you?" Luis looked around the cottage. He looked around the living room, in the bedroom, the kitchen, everywhere. She wasn't there. Luis came back to the kitchen and said, "God. Where could she be?" Luis suddenly saw a note on the counter. He picked it up and read it. It said...

Dear Luis,
Now that you know what happened, I know that you never want to see me again. I know that I should have told you in the first place about that night, but I thought it was a nightmare and Jullian told me that it was. But still, I know that that isn't enough for you. I know that you will never forgive me for what I've done. Well, I have decided that I will no longer cause you any more pain. I am leaving. I just wanted to let you know that I love you, with all my heart. I will never stop loving you, and I will never forgive myself for what I have done to you. I hope that you will be very happy. I love you!
With all of my heart, Sheridan.

Luis felt his eyes well up with tears as he read this. He shook his head and whispered, "No," as tears came rushing down his face. He crumpled the letter up into his hand and threw it on the floor. The paper landed next to something on the floor. He leaned over and picked it up. It was the engagement ring that he gave to Sheridan. Luis closed it in his palm and brought his hand by to his lips. Tears were coming down even faster now. Luis said, "What have I done?" He fell onto the couch in the living room and cried. "Oh, Sheridan. I love you. I love you so much. Please, forgive me." Luis had never felt more awful in his life. Sheridan loved him so much, and now, he had hurt the only woman he has ever loved. She meant the world to him. He would give anything to prevent her from being hurt, and now, he had destroyed her. Sheridan never meant to cause him any pain. Sheridan now believed that Luis didn't love her anymore and he didn't want to marry her. He felt like his whole world was crumpling before his eyes. He felt so lonely, so sad, so... lost. He had been wishing for the longest time that they would end up together. That they would have a future together. Raise a family. Spend the rest of their lives together. After all they had been through, they had always been able to overcome it. They were madly in love. Nothing could stand in their way. Luis sat up and said, "I have to find her. I'm going to get her back." He got up and picked up his jacket. He was about to run out the door, when he realized that he had forgotten something. He went back to the couch and picked up the engagement ring. He said, "I love you Sheridan. And I'll never let you go." He ran out the door.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 10: The Search!

In Paris, Luis looked around the town for Sheridan. He went around every block several times. Every minute he kept searching for her, he became more determined to find her. She had to know that he still loved her. His heart was pounding faster and faster as he continued to search. He went into Sheridan's favorite stores, but couldn't find her in any of them. After a few hours of searching, he went outside and looked around. It seemed like hundreds of people were running through the town. How would he ever find Sheridan in a mob like this? He sat on a bench and thought to himself. 'Now what? Where could Sheridan be?' Luis didn't know what to do. He looked for her in every single place he could think of. He was loosing hope. What if she had left town? What if he would never see her again? What if she was hurt so much, that she did something crazy? Luis began to breathe heavily as he thought about what might happen to her. Luis remembered the pain he saw in Sheridan's eyes the last time he talked with her. Luis banged him fist on the bench, almost breaking the wood. "Damit!" Luis cursed, "Why did you do that, Luis? Why did you run out on her like that?" Luis put aside all of the terrible things he was thinking about right now. "My stupidity will have to wait. Right now, I have to find Sheridan. I don't care if I have to search all over Paris. I'll find her." Luis got up and took a deep breathe. He continued to search for Sheridan.

Later on, Luis walked into the cottage. He fell onto the couch. He looked terrible. He had just searched the town from top to bottom. He couldn't find anything about where she was. He looked as though he had just ran a thousand miles. He stared up at the ceiling and thought, "What am I going to do? I have no where else to look. Where the hell is she? Oh, think Luis. Think. Where would she be in a time like this?" Luis suddenly flashed back to when they were on the plane to Paris...

**FLASHBACK**

"What are you looking at?" said Luis. "What do you mean?" asked Sheridan. Luis pointed out the window. "Well, you have been staring out the window for a long time. What's out there that fascinates you so much?" Sheridan sighed, "Oh. I've just forgotten how beautiful the ocean is. It's the most beautiful thing I have ever seen."

**REALITY**

"That's it!" Luis said, "Sheridan's at the ocean." Even though Luis had never been more tired in his life, he jumped off the couch and headed out the door. He jumped into his car and headed towards the beach. All the time, praying that he would find Sheridan there. It was getting dark outside and he couldn't bear to wait another day to find Sheridan. Something inside of him told him that Sheridan needed him now... more than he knew.

At the beach in Paris, Sheridan stood on the shore, looking at the sunset. Tears were still running down her face. She was crying hysterically. Sheridan said, "Oh, Luis. How could this have happened? How could I have done this to you? I was such an idiot." Sheridan stared out into the sunset and remembered many great times that she had with Luis...... The time they danced the tango at Pilar's birthday party, the time when Luis saved Sheridan's life in Santa Fe, the time when they danced together on New Year's Eve, the time when Luis rescued her on New Year's, the time when they went on their first date, the time when Luis kissed her on the cheek, the time when they first kissed, the time that Luis saved her life in Paris, the time when they got into that plane accident, the time when she was sick and he took care of her, the time that he proposed to her, the time they had made love after getting engaged, the time when Luis saved her from Jullian, the time when she saved his life from Jullian, the time they Luis promised her that no matter what happened, they would always be together... forever. Sheridan wiped the tears from her eyes. "Together forever," she thought, "Luis probably hates me now. He never wants to see me again. How will I ever get on without him?" Sheridan had no time to continue to cry, because before she knew it, someone's hand covered up her mouth. Sheridan tried to scream as the person grabbed Sheridan by the waist. In a few moments, Sheridan was knocked out...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 11: Not Again!

Sheridan slowly opened her eyes. But when she opened them, she couldn't see anything. It was so dark, it was almost like she was blind. She didn't know where she was. She was sitting on a chair. She tried to stand up, but her hands and legs were tied onto the chair. Sheridan thought, 'What's going on? Where am I?' Sheridan squirmed around, trying to untie the ropes on her hands, but it was no use. The ropes were tied so tightly, her wrists were starting to bleed. She said, "Hello?" Her voice echoed through out the room. "Is anyone there?" she asked again. Sheridan thought, 'Where the heck am I?' Suddenly, she heard a door open. She looked up at the door and as it opened, light came shining through the room. She had been locked up in a bedroom. She looked around the room. There was something about this room. She felt like she had seen it before, but she didn't know where or when. She looked back at the door. A tall, dark figure stood in the doorway. She became very frightened. Who was this person and why were they trying to hurt her? The figure stepped out from the shadows and Sheridan gasped. "It's you!"

Luis was at the ocean. He walked along the beach many times, trying to find Sheridan. It was no use. The sun had just disappeared over the horizon and it was getting cold. Luis was desperate to find Sheridan. She had to know that he still loved her. It's true, he was mad that Sheridan kept this secret from him, and he intended to talk to her about that, but the important thing was that no matter what she did, he still loved her. He felt like such an idiot for walking out on her like that. He suddenly felt like his father. His father ran out of his family many years ago and never came back. Pilar wished for a long time that Martin would come back to her, but he never did. She loved him with all his heart. She even lit candles for him. Through out Luis's life, he watched in agony as his mother yearned for Martin to return. He never ever came back. It killed Luis to see her in that much pain. What made him feel even worse was that now, he had done the same thing. He just walked out on her. Now, just like Pilar, Sheridan was in terrible pain. Luis had hurt her so much, just like Martin had hurt Pilar. Luis was determined not to make the same mistakes his father made. He was going to be a better person than Martin. He was going to go back to Sheridan and apologize. The problem was, he didn't know where to look. He had been walking around the beach for quite some time now and he couldn't think of anywhere else to look. Luis looked on the ground and saw something. There was something that was mostly buried in the sand, but a small sparkling part stuck out. He leaned over and picked it up. He dusted off the sand and smiled at what he saw...

**FLASHBACK**

He reached into his pocket. "I have something for you." He pulled out a beautiful silver necklace. It was a silver heart with glitter all over it. Sheridan's mouth dropped open in amazement. Luis put in around her neck. Sheridan looked at it, "Oh! It's beautiful!"

**REALITY**

Luis looked down at his hand. "It's Sheridan's necklace," he said to himself, "She was here." Luis sighed with relief. At least he knew that he had gotten somewhere. This gave him hope. He clutched the necklace in his hand and said, "I'll find you Sheridan. I promise."

Sheridan's mouth dropped open and she gasped, "It's you! Oh my god! Jean Luc!" (Just pretend that Jean Luc isn't really dead.) Jean Luc walked up to Sheridan. Sheridan tried to pull away from him, but the chair wouldn't move. "What's going on, Jean Luc? What are you doing?" Jean Luc circled around Sheridan. Sheridan became very frightened. What was he going to do to her? Jean Luc came up in front of her and kneeled down. He looked at her face. Sheridan tried to look away from him. He grabbed her chin and turned her head so that she would look at him. "You know exactly what I'm doing, Sheridan." Sheridan said, "No! I don't! And I demand to know. I never want to see you again... the way you used me." Jean Luc began to circle her again. "Yes. Yes I did! And yet, I still didn't get what I wanted from you." Sheridan said, "What do you want from me?" Jean Luc replied, "It is the one and only thing you are good for... money. I wanted to get your money. And yet, I didn't get it. And I want it." Sheridan yelled, "If you think you can get a penny out of me, you're wrong." Jean Luc said, "Well, you don't have the advantage to decide that. If anyone in your family gives a damn about you, they will pay me a good amount of money to set you free." Sheridan said, "And what after that." Jean Luc stood behind Sheridan. He put his hands on her shoulders and said, "Then, I kill you." Sheridan eyes began to well up with tears. 'Not Again?' she thought.

Luis decided that he would have to talk to some people in the area and see if they had seen Sheridan. Now that he had found her necklace, it gave him more hope and courage to find Sheridan. He would not rest until she was happily safe in his arms again. Before that, he decided to call his mother. He picked up the phone and dialed the number.

At the Lopez-Fitzgerald house, Theresa, Miguel, and Pilar are still devastated about Luis and Sheridan's death. They are all sitting in the living room with Ethan and Charity and Kay. Ethan tries to comfort Theresa and Charity tried to comfort Miguel. Kay wanted to comfort Miguel, but he is so into Charity, she hasn't gotten a chance. She thinks, 'God, will Charity ever stop. Miguel's brother just died, and she is just using this as a chance to be with Miguel. If only Miguel would wake up and realize that I'm the girl for him. Not that little goodie-two-shoes Charity.' Her thoughts were interrupted as the phone rang. Pilar picked it up. "Hello?" Luis said, "Hi, Mama! It's me, Luis!" Everyone watched as Pilar's eyes got wide and her mouth dropped open. "Luis. No, it can't be." "Yes. It is. It's me Mama!" Pilar gasped, "But... but, you and Sheridan are dead." Luis said, "What are you talking about? We aren't dead. Where'd you get that from?" "Oh my gosh," said Pilar. She looked up at the people in her living room. "It's Luis! He's alive!" "What?" said Theresa. "Theresita. It's Luis. Listen." Pilar handed the phone to Theresa. Theresa excitedly said, "Hello?" "Hi, sis! How are you doing?" Theresa was so happy to hear her brother's voice, tears came rushing down her face. "Oh my gosh! Luis, you're alive." "Yeah. I'm fine! I'm in Paris."said Luis, a little confused as to why they thought he was dead. "Paris? Why?" "Sheridan and I want to start a life together, and since Jullian and Alistair are after us, we decided to stay in Paris for a while." Theresa smiled from ear to ear. "Oh my gosh. This is so wonderful." Ethan heard the conversation and he asked Luis if he could talk to Sheridan. "Sure! Once I can find her." "Find her? What do you mean?" asked Ethan. "Well... Sheridan and I got into a little fight and I am looking around Paris for her." "Well, once you find her, please let me know." Suddenly, Ethan's cell phone rang. "Oh, hold on a second, Luis." Ethan picked up his phone. "Hello?" Ethan was silent for a long time. Then, his face became red with rage and he yelled, "Who is this? Hello? Hello?" Ethan said, "Luis. Something has happened to Sheridan." Luis became very scared. "Ethan. What happened to Sheridan?" Ethan said, "I just got a phone call from someone. He said that he had kidnapped Sheridan and if anyone wants to see her again, Jullian has to pay him $3,000,000.03." (i just added the 3 cents for fun.) Luis's mouth dropped open. "Oh my gosh. Sheridan's in trouble... again. Oh no!" Ethan said, "Luis. What am I going to do?" Luis said, "Well, connect me with Jullian. Maybe we can covince him to pay the ransom, then we can find out where this man is and I'll go resue her." Ethan agreed and 3-wayed Julian.

Jullian picked up the phone. "Jullian Crane." Luis said, "Julian. It's me Luis." Julian said, "Luis. What are you calling me about? I thought that after you found out about Sheridan killing your father, that you wouldn't have anything to do with the Cranes anymore." Luis said, "Now, you listen to me, Jullian. It doesn't matter what you say. I still love Sheridan. Right now, there are more important matters. Sheridan has been kidnapped." Jullian smiled, but was also a little nervous. "Kidnapped? Who?" Luis said, "I don't know. But they are demanding $3,000,000.03." "Why the three cents?" asked Jullian. Luis yelled, "How the yell am I supposed to know. All I know is that this man wants the money and we can't track him down and get Sheridan back until we pay the randsom." Jullian thought to himself, 'If they get Sheridan back, then she will get back with him. I can't let that happen, no matter what.' Jullian said, 'I'm sorry, Luis, but I can't help you." Luis yelled, "What? Jullian. She is your own sister." Jullian said, "I don't care," and then he hung up.

Luis talked to Ethan. "This is just great. Now, what am I going to do." said Luis. "I don't know, but we have to find a way." Luis was becoming very frustrated. "Ethan. I need to think for a minute. I'll call you later." Ethan said, "Okay. Just call me if you need anything." "Thanks," said Luis and he hung up.

He clutched his fists together and said, "This can't be happening. Sheridan's in danger again." Luis sat down on the sand and thought for a moment. He knew that Sheridan couldn't have been taken far. She had only been gone for a few hours. Luis looked out into the ocean and said, "I'll find you Sheridan." Luis got up and walked along the beach, trying to think...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 12: Getting Closer!

Luis walked around the beach, trying to figure out what to do. He now knew that Sheridan was in trouble, but he didn't know where to look. All he knew was that Sheridan couldn't die without knowing that he still loved her. 'Check that,' he thought, 'I would never forgive myself if anything happens her. She is my life. My true love. If she died, I could never get on without her. He sat down on a bench and thought for a moment. He said to himself, "Who in Paris would want to hurt Sheridan? She said that everyone in Paris was her friend. So, who could possibly have something against her?" Luis thought for a moment and tried to think about the enemies that Sheridan might have. Luis remembered how Roger and Pierre tried to kill Sheridan a long time ago. But they couldn't have done it, they were in jail. Locked away forever. There was no way that they could have done it. So, who else would want to hurt her? "Oh, think Luis, think," said Luis, a little frustrated. "Who would possible want to hurt her, or use her for random?" The word "use" echoed through his mind. His mouth dropped open and he said, "Oh my gosh! It can'tbe."

**FLASHBACK**

Luis was at the hotel in Paris looking for Sheridan. He ran into Jean Luc and was talking to him. Jean Luc said, "After she left Paris, I never saw her again. She thinks that I am dead, so I thought I should stay away from her now. Too bad I didn't get what I wanted from her." Luis felt sorry for Sheridan. He asked, "Tell me honestly Jean Luc. Did you ever love Sheridan for who she is, not her money?" Jean Luc laughed and Luis felt fire burning in his heart. Jean Luc said, "No way! The only reason I was with her was so I could use her to get money from her family..."

**REALITY**

The sentence, "use her to get money," echoed through his head several times. Luis ran his hand through his hair and said, "Jean Luc. He did this. That dirty bastard." Luis hesitated for a moment. He got up and ran to the car. He drove back to the cottage where they were staying. Luckily, he remembered seeing her phone book that she had left at the cottage. He raced there and ran inside. He went into the bedroom and grabbed the phone book. He skimmed through the pages until he got to his name. But there were two places marked as Jean Luc Milan. There was one in Paris and one in the country. Luis didn't know which one to go to. He said, "Damit! Which one do I go to?" Luis remembered one time when Theresa told him that fate would bring two people together if they were really meant to be. If fate wanted Sheridan and Luis to be together, then there was no stopping them. Luis closed his eyes and whispered, "God, help me. Help me find Sheridan. Please." Luis took a deep breathe as he waited for a sign from God to tell him where to go. He felt his fingers automatically moving along the phone book. His fingers drifted along like a magnet until it stopped. Luis opened his eyes and looked down at the page. His finger was right on Jean Luc's address to his country house. Luis sighed and said, "Please! Let her be all right. I love her too much to loose her now." Luis grabbed his gun and ran out to his car.

At Jean Luc's country house, Jean Luc was circling Sheridan, trying to figure out a way to kill her after he got the random money. Sheridan was thinking about Luis. 'I'll never see him again. Oh, why did I do this? Why did I let him down? Luis probably doesn't even know where I am. Oh, Luis. I'm sorry. I love you so much. Please, come help me get out of here.' Sheridan looked up at Jean Luc and said, "If you think you're going to get away with this, you're wrong. My fiance, Luis, will come and rescue me. I know he will. He loves me. He would never really use me or hurt me." Jean Luc laughed evilly. "Is that the man who came after you at the hotel in Paris?" "Yes, he is. And when he finds out what you've done, he'll have you arrested." said Sheridan, looking at Jean Luc me anymore, not after what I did to him. Oh, how am I going to get out of here?' Jean Luc kneeled down in front of Luc with no fear in her eyes. Jean Luc just smiled, "You're fiance probably doesn't even know where you are. He probably doesn't even care." "No! Luis loves me. I know he does. He would do anything for me!" Jean Luc said, "Then, where is he? Wouldn't he have been with you when I kidnapped you? Wouldn't he be coming to your rescue, yet again." Sheridan's eyes fell to the floor and she frowned. Jean Luc said, "I knew you'd see things my way." Sheridan thought, 'Who am I kidding? Jean Luc's right. Luis probably doesn't even love me anymore.' Sheridan stared out the window at the silver moon. She wished more than anything that Luis was there to hold her, comfort her, protect her. She would give anything to be in his arms again.

Luis was racing to get to Jean Luc's country house. He had to get there quickly before something happened to her. Who knows what Jean Luc might do to hurt her? His heart was racing faster and faster by the second. He was so scared about what might happen to Sheridan. He reached into his pocket and took out the engagement ring he had given to Sheridan. He clutched it in his palm and held it to his heart. He whispered, "I love you, Sheridan." A tear fell from his eye. When he arrived at the county home, everything was dark. Luis quietly got out of his car and got his gun ready. He walked up to the window and looked inside. Everything was completely dark. He was beginning to think that maybe he should have gone to the other house. All he could see was pitch black. All... except one thing. He saw rays of light shining through a door. Luis pulled out Sheridan's necklace from his pocket. He put the necklace around his neck and clutched it to his heart. It gave him courage to find Sheridan. Something inside of him told him that Sheridan was there and she needed him right now. He took a deep breathe and walked up to the door...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 13: Lost And Found!

Sheridan began to cry as she thought about how she was going to die. She would never see Luis again and that killed her. Even though, it probably didn't matter to Luis. He probably never wanted to see her again. Oh, Sheridan would give anything if she could just run into his arms and tell him how sorry she was. Now, she was hidden away in Jean Luc's big country house where no one would ever find her. Sheridan heard the phone conversation that Jean Luc made to Ethan. She knew that Ethan would care about her, but she didn't think that the rest of her family would care. 'Jullian probably won't even pay the money. He doesn't care about me, only his money. I'm starting to think that no one in this world cares about me.' Sheridan thought to herself. Sheridan knew that one way or another, she would be killed. She just assumed that her family would at least have the heart to try.

Luis walked up to the door. He had a plan. He would knock on the door and when Jean Luc came to answer it, he would fight with him. He would knock him out and then go save Sheridan. He raised his hand and was about to knock on the door, when he heard someone coming. He hid in a bush that was right by the door and waited to see who it was. He gazed out through the bush. It was very dark, so it was hard to see, but then, two figures stepped out from the shadows. Luis saw their faces and gasped. It was Roger and Pierre. 'Oh my god, no. How did they get here? They're supposed to be in jail. Did they escape?' When Pierre and Roger walked up to the door, Luis was about o pounce on them, but he paused when he realized that there was only one of him and two of them. Both of them had guns, so there was no chance that he would be able to survive. Roger and Pierre stood on the doorway and Pierre said, "Thank goodness we have gotten out of that jail." Roger said, "Yes. And now that Jean Luc has captured Sheridan Crane, we will be able to get our revenge." Pierre said, "Yes. I want nothing more than to make her pay for putting us in jail. I would also like to get that little friend of hers, that American cop." "Yes. We were right there at the hospital and we could have choked Sheridan to death if only he hadn't come in. Well, we will take care of him later. Right now, we will take care of Sheridan." Roger said and he raised his hand to knock on the door, but Pierre interrupted him. "Roger. Why does Jean Luc need our help with Sheridan?" Roger looked back at Pierre. "Because he is holding her for ransom. We have to take care of the money and help him to kill her." Luis felt his heart jump. Roger knocked on the door. In a few moments, Jean Luc opened the door. Jean Luc looked at them and said, "You're late. Come in." Roger and Pierre walked in. The shut the door behind him. Luis reached out to the door with a stick and stopped the door from closing. He looked around at this big house. It was at least ten times the size of his own. It might take him a while to find her. Plus, there were three men in the house and he knew that he would be in trouble if they found him. He took a deep breathe when he realized that this would be harder than he thought.

Sheridan was struggling to untie the ropes on her hands. They were tied so tightly, she could barely move her hands. Suddenly, the door opened. She saw three men step inside. The first one was Jean Luc and he was followed by Roger and Pierre. Sheridan's eyes became wide with fear. "It's you. You're supposed to be in jail." Pierre walked in back of Sheridan and said, "We were. We escaped so we could have our revenge against you." Sheridan said, "Why is this happening to me? Why did you try to kill me?" "Because we didn't want you to tell anyone about us" said Jean Luc. "What about?" asked Sheridan. Roger said, "The three of us were in the drug business. We couldn't take the chance that you knew about it. So, we had to eliminate you." Sheridan said, "But I didn't know. I had no idea that you were in the drug business." Pierre said, "Well, now you do. And because of you, we were put in jail. For that, you must die." Jean Luc said, "Roger, Pierre." Roger and Pierre walked up to Jean Luc. Jean Luc said, "I said that the ransom money was to be dropped off by the dump in Paris. Make sure that the money has been taken care of and meet me back here with the money. We will split it evenly. Then, we will kill Sheridan." Pierre said, "But what if they don't pay the money?" "Then, we'll kill her anyway. Just make sure, that no one knows what you're up to." Roger and Pierre nodded and the three of them walked out of the room.

Luis had gotten into the house and was walking through the dark room, careful not to make any noise. He had his gun loaded and ready. Lis had no idea where to look for Sheridan, but he would find her somehow. Luis suddenly heard footsteps coming and he hid behind a corner. He carefully peeked out. He saw Jean Luc, Roger, and Pierre come out of a room and close a door behind them. They walked in the other direction. Luis sighed with relief. When he was sure that they were gone, Luis quietly walked to the door where they came out of. He put his ear to the door and listened. He could hear someone crying inside. "Sheridan," he whispered to himself. He carefully opened the door and walked inside. The room was so dark, it was hard for him to see. Then, he saw Sheridan. She was tied to a chair by her hands and feet and he face was stained with tears. Luis ran to her. "Sheridan." he said softly. Sheridan looked up at him and suddenly, a smile came on her face. "Luis. You're here." She wanted so much to just throw her arms around him, if only she could. Luis gently hugged her and said, "It's all right, Sheridan. I'm gonna get you out of here." Luis went in back of her and untied the roped on her hands and feet. As soon as she was free, she jumped into Luis's arms and started to cry again. Luis swayed her and cradled her in his arms. "Don't worry, Sheridan. We'll get out of here." Luis pulled back from Sheridan and looked into her eyes. "Did they hurt you?" His eyes were full of worry and concern. Sheridan said, "A little. I was beaten up a little when I was knocked out, but they didn't do anything else." Luis took her in his arms again and clutched her tightly to him. "Are you all right?" he asked. "Now that you're here, I'm all right. But there's something I need to tell you." said Sheridan. Luis silenced her with his finger and said, "Shh. It can wait for now. First, we need to get out of here." Sheridan nodded. Luis pulled back from her, but he went his arm wrapped around her waist. He wanted to be sure at all times that she was right there beside him, out of harm's way.

They carefully walked out of the room. Luis led Sheridan out the way he came in. It would take them a few minutes to get out, so they had to be careful to be quiet and to go the right way. They turned the corner, and they bumped into Roger, Pierre, and Jean Luc. They looked at each other with confusion and anger. Roger quickly pulled out him gun and aimed it towards Sheridan's head. Luis grabbed Sheridan and ran to other way. Roger pulled the trigger and the bullet just missed Sheridan. They ran after Sheridan and Luis. Luis and Sheridan ran as fast as they could to get away. They didn't look behind them, they just kept running. The sounds of gunshots echoed in Sheridan's mind. She heard gunshots everywhere. Jean Luc said, "Roger! Go around the other way and trap them." Roger ran around another corner. Sheridan and Luis looked up ahead and saw the front door. They smiled with relief. If only they could get there in time, but before they got there, Roger stepped in front of the door, with a gun in his hand. Sheridan and Luis stopped in their tracked. Pierre and Jean Luc came up from behind them. Luis and Sheridan looked around them. They were trapped.

Jean Luc said, "It's the end of the line for you." Luis took Sheridan in his arms and held her tightly. Luis couldn't believe that this was the end. They were really going to die. If only there was something he could do to save Sheridan. He looked around him one more time and saw that there was an open area that they could run. Luis grabbed Sheridan and ran down that hallway, pulling Sheridan with him. Pierre and Roger followed them and Jean Luc ran around the other way. He said to himself, 'I'll have to kill them a different way.' As he got to the end of the hallway, he pulled out a match and lit it. Sheridan and Luis had reached the end of the hallway. They were almost to the back door, when suddenly, the room burst into flames. A wall of fire blocked the door. They turned around and saw the three men staring at them. The fire was spreading quickly and it almost filed the whole room. Jean Luc said, "There's no saving you now." They all stepped forward when suddenly, they heard a loud snap. Jean Luc looked up just before a huge pile of flaming wood came crashing down on them. They didn't even have time to scream. Their bodies burst into flames. They were dead.

Sheridan smiled, "Thank god. We're safe." Luis looked around and saw that the fire was becoming more and more fierce by the second. "Not yet we aren't. We have gotta get out of here before we end up like them." Luis took Sheridan hand and they ran down a hallway. As they ran, flaming parts of wood came flying down at them. They dodged them and continued to run. Luis tried to keep Sheridan in front of him in case something happened. They sighed with relief as they heard the sounds of fire trucks pulling up to the house. Their thoughts were interrupted as they heard a loud snap above them. Sheridan screamed and suddenly let go of Luis's hand. A piece of wood came crashing down and hit Luis's head. Luis was knocked unconscious as he fell to the ground. The big piece of wood laid between Sheridan and Luis. Sheridan screamed in horror as she saw Luis fall to the ground. "Luis! Luis!" She screamed, "Oh no! Luis, speak to me." Sheridan tried to get past the flames to help Luis, but they were spreading quickly.

Before she knew it, the firemen came rushing into the house. One of the men grabbed Sheridan and tried to drag her out of the house. Sheridan screamed, "No! Luis. He can't die. I can't leave him." The firemen pulled Sheridan out of the burning house and some men tried to hold Sheridan back. She cried, "I can't leave Luis. I have to help him." Sheridan watched in agony as the house burned down to ashes, with her beloved Luis trapped inside...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 14: Right Here!

A million thoughts flashed through Sheridan's mind as she saw the country house burn down. Her Luis was inside. What if he died trying to save her? She would never forgive herself if she was responsible for his death. Several firemen were running around the house, trying to put the fire out, but where was Luis? Why hadn't they gotten him out yet? She wanted so much to just run in their and help him, but two men were holding her back. All she could do was pray that Luis would survive. She thought, 'Please, god. Don't let him die. I need him in my life. Please, don't take him away from me. I can't go on without him. I'll do anything, ANYTHING, if Luis will just be okay. Please, god. Let Luis be all right.' Suddenly, she was three men carry something out of the house. It was hard to see, but the thing they were carrying was very big. Sheridan looked harder and saw that it was Luis. The men carried his body out of the flaming house and set him on the ground. Sheridan broke free of the men and ran to Luis's side. He was unconscious and he had burns on his body. Sheridan collapsed on his chest and cried. "Luis. Please, you have to make it. Don't leave me." Sheridan held onto him as tightly as possible, afraid that if she let go, he would disappear. Some of the firemen pulled her off of Luis and put him on the stretcher. They put him in the ambulance and Sheridan jumped in with him.

Luis was put on life support and he was in critical condition. Sheridan sat by him and squeezed his hand tightly. She brought his hand up to her mouth and kissed it gently. Her eyes were filled with so many tears, it was getting hard for her to see. It looked like everything was getting blurry and fading away. She closed her eyes and squeezed Luis's hand tighter. He couldn't die, he just couldn't. Especially without knowing how sorry she was for hurting him so much. Luis had risked his life to save her's and now, he might die for that. Sheridan continued to pray for Luis to be all right.

During this whole fiasco, Luis's mind was somewhere else. He appeared in a very strange place. The ground was made of clouds and the sky was dark blue with golden stars. The stars seemed a lot bigger here. Luis looked around him and couldn't see anything. It was almost like a desert. All he could see over the horizon were clouds, going on forever. Luis became a little scared. He wanted Sheridan to be there with him. He called, "Sheridan? Sheridan, are you here?" "She is not here," a voice called from behind him. Luis turned around and he saw that a big white light was shining in his direction. A man was standing right by the light. Luis asked, "Where am I?" "A place where you not belong yet," said the man. "What do you mean?" said Luis. "You need to go back to where you came from. You can't leave Sheridan. She loved you. She needs you in her life," said the man. Luis looked through the white light and saw many people. The people were all laughing and smiling and having fun. They had wings and Luis realized that they were angels. Luis was fascinated by this sight and wanted to stay. "But, I want to stay." Luis said. The man put his hand out in front of him and said, "No! You can't stay, you must go back." Then, the man disappeared, but the bright light remained. Luis debated with himself whether or not to go to the light. He took a few steps forward. In the ambulance, Sheridan mouth dropped open as the monitor went flat. Some doctors inside of the ambulance rushed to Luis's side to help him. Sheridan backed away from Luis and watched in horror as Luis's body jerked up. After they did it a few times, he still wasn't responding. Sheridan cried out, "Luis. Come back. Don't leave me, Luis. I love you."

Luis was about a few steps away from the bright light. He reached out his hand to touch it. Just before he touched it, he heard a scream. He turned around, but no one was there. He kept hearing the screams. "Luis. Please, come back to me. Stay with me. I love you." Luis whispered to himself, "It's Sheridan." Luis turned away from the light and ran away towards her screams.

Sheridan sighed with relief when Luis's heart rate was normal again. They had just reached the hospital. Everyone jumped out of the car and started to wheel him to the emergency room. Sheridan ran along side of him, still holding his hand. "I'll be right here, Luis. You'll be okay. I promise." Then, Luis was taken away from her. She tried to go after him, but the doctors pushed her back. For a few moments, she just stood there in shock. Then, she walked to the waiting room. She had on the couch and put her head in her hands. All she could think about was that she was loosing Luis. If he died, she would never be able to see him again. She would never be able to wake up lying in his arms, kiss his beautiful lips, stare into those gorgeous eyes, see that killer smile, hear his voice, make love to him, touch his body, and be with him. She loved every part of him, and she would die if she never got to be with him again. She buried her face in her eyes and she cried, harder than she had ever cried in her life...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 17: Stand By Me!

Sheridan panted to catch her breathe. She had been sitting there by Luis's side for hours, crying hysterically. She now was finding it hard to breathe. Her face was bright red and the front of her shirt was soaked in tears. She never knew that someone could cry as much as she did. She was exhausted. She went down on her knees by Luis's bed and laid her head down on his chest. She began to calm down as she heard his heart thumping in his chest. She finally calmed down and she whispered, "Please, don't leave me Luis. I need you in my life. I love you. I couldn't stand it if anything happened to you." Just then, she heard the door open and she sat up. She turned around and saw Pilar. Pilar had been crying as well. When she saw Luis lying on the bed, she ran to Sheridan and hugged her. They both cried together for a while. Sheridan pulled back and said, "Pilar. How did you get here?" Pilar answered, "The doctors called me. I flew over here with Ethan and Beth." Sheridan's stomach tightened as she heard that Beth was there. Sheridan said, "I'm so sorry I didn't call you, Pilar. I have been in here for hours. I guess it just slipped my mind." Pilar said, "It's all right." Pilar looked over at Luis. "How is he?" Sheridan said, "I don't know. I haven't seen him move yet and the doctors aren't sure of what's going to happen. They say that they'll know when he wakes up. I have been waiting in here for hours for him to wake up." Pilar said, "Have you eaten yet Sheridan?" Sheridan shook her head, "No. I'm not hungry." "You need to eat, Sheridan." Sheridan looked back at Luis. "But, I can't leave him." Pilar said, "Please, Sheridan. It would make Luis feel better if you did." Sheridan forced a smile and said, "Okay, Pilar." Sheridan stood up and Pilar said, "I'll get you a bagel and some coffee. I'll meet you in the lobby." "Okay," Sheridan replied, but Pilar was already out the door. She got her purse before she left and was about to walk out the door, when she looked back at Luis. She felt her heart sink as she looked at Luis lying unconscious on the hospital bed. She walked over to him and kissing him on the forehead. She brushed her lips on his head, closed her eyes, and whispered, "Don't wake up until I'm here." She waked out the door. As she walked out, she ran into Ethan. "Sheridan," he said as he hugged her, "Are you all right?" Sheridan said, "Yeah, I'm fine. But Luis..." She and Ethan looked through the window at Luis. Ethan said, "I'm so sorry, Sheridan. It'll work out. I promise." Sheridan said, "Thanks. Now, I need to go talk to Pilar. I'll talk to you later." Ethan nodded and Sheridan went to the waiting room.

Pilar and Sheridan sat down in the waiting room with some food in their hands. There were no other people in the room, so it made it easier for them to talk. Pilar said, "Sheridan. What happened out there?" Sheridan stared at the floor. She tried to speak, but she couldn't find the words. She finally said, "Jean Luc kidnapped me. He brought me up to his country house and Luis came to rescue me. Jean Luc set the house on fire. Luis saved me from the fire, but he got trapped in the house." Sheridan broke down into sobs. Little did they know that Beth was listening close by. Pilar hugged Sheridan. Sheridan said, "It's all my fault. If it weren't for me, none of this would have happened." Pilar pulled back from Sheridan and said, "No, Sheridan. No. None of this was your fault. Luis loves you and he would never let anything happen to you." Sheridan didn't say anything. Pilar said, "Well, I have to go talk to the doctors. Are you gonna be okay?" Sheridan nodded, "Yes." Pilar stood up and said, "Okay. I'll talk to you later." Pilar left the room and Sheridan was alone, but not for long.

Beth came walking into the waiting room with an angry look on her face. She stepped in front of Sheridan, who was starring at the floor. Sheridan saw two feet step in front of her and she looked up. She saw Beth starring back at her with an evil look in her eyes. Sheridan nervously stood up. Beth suddenly slapped Sheridan across the face. Sheridan froze. She couldn't believe that Beth would actually do something like that. Beth said, "You bitch." Sheridan looked at Beth and rubbed her cheek where Beth had slapped her. Beth nail had scratched the side of her cheek. It was starting to bleed. Sheridan said, "What was that all about Beth?" Beth said, "If it wasn't for you, none of this would have happened. Luis is hurt and could be dying because of you. He should have been with me. We were inseparable until you came along and stole him away. Now, look what you have done to him." Sheridan felt tears well up in her eyes, but she tried to defend herself. "Luis risked his life to save me. He loves me." Beth's face became bright red. She suddenly attacked Sheridan. She pushed Sheridan against the wall and punched her stomach many times. Luckily, the nurse had seen this and called security. The security came rushing in and pulled Beth off of Sheridan. She was taken away. The nurse went up to Sheridan and said, "Are you all right, Miss?" Sheridan covered up the bleeding scratch on her cheek. "Yeah. I'm fine." Sheridan pulled herself together and went back to Luis's room.

When she got to Luis's room, she was surprised to see that Ethan was inside. "Ethan? What are you doing here?" Ethan stood up and said, "I thought I'd keep him company while you were gone." Sheridan said, "Did he wake up?" Ethan said, "Don't worry. You didn't miss a thing. He's all your now." Ethan walked out the door and Sheridan took her seat next to Luis. He brushed a piece of hair out of his face and took his hand. As she touched his hand, a shiver went through her body. A few tears fell from her eyes. She said, "Oh, Luis. I'm so sorry this had to happen. I feel like it's my fault that you're in this hospital. You saved me from that fire, but I wish that you would have saved yourself instead of me. All I wanted to do was tell you how sorry I was that I didn't tell you about what happened with your father. I could have sworn it was all a bad nightmare. I didn't think it meant anything, and my family made me believe it was a nightmare." Sheridan frowned and said, "But that doesn't matter. The point is... I should have told you... and I didn't." Sheridan began to cry even harder as she spoke. She broke his hand up to her face and she looked at the floor."Now, because of me, you could be dying. It is all my fault and may never see you again. Even if you did, I doubt you would love me anymore." "Oh no?" Luis said. Sheridan eyes became wide. She slowly turned her head up and found Luis smiling back at her...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 16: Finally!

Luis woke up and at first, he didn't know where he was. Then, he remembered the events of last night. Him saving her from that life, being knocked out, waking up in the hospital by Sheridan. Luis looked down at Sheridan, who was still fast asleep, nestled against his chest. She had a smile on her face and she looked so peaceful. Luis thought, 'God. Even when she's sleeping she's beautiful.' Luis smiled at her and kissed her on the top of the head. He looked over on the table beside him. He saw something shimmering. He picked it up and looked at it and smiled. It was Sheridan's engagement ring. He had found it in the cottage after they had gotten in a fight. Luis closed it in his palm and continued to watch Sheridan sleep. Sheridan began to stir in his arms. "Mmmm," she moaned out in her sleep, "Luis." Luis couldn't help but to chuckle. Sheridan fluttered her eyes open and looked up at Luis. When she realized that she was in Luis arms, she smiled. Luis whispered, "Hi." Sheridan whispered back, "Hi!" Sheridan settled back into his arms and said, "How are you feeling?" Luis smiled, "When I'm with you, I've never been better." Sheridan smiled. He always knows what to do to make me happy. Sheridan saw that Luis was holding something in his hand. She said, "What that in your hand?" Luis looked at the ring and showed it to Sheridan. "It's your engagement ring. I found it in the cottage after I came back to find you." Sheridan said, "Well, I want it back now." She reached out to grab it, but Luis pulled it out of her reach. Sheridan looked at Luis with a confused look. "Luis. Give it." Luis laughed. She sounded like a little baby. Luis said, "No! I have to do this one more time." Sheridan sighed and knew what he was talking about. Luis and Sheridan slightly sat up and Luis took Sheridan's hand. He said, "Sheridan. You are the most wonderful person I have ever met. When you came into my life, I was completely changed. You are the love of my life. I don't think I could go through another day without you by my side. Sheridan, I promise that I will love you forever, no matter what happens. No matter what obstacle, we will overcome it. Sheridan, will you do my the wonderful honor of being my wife." Sheridan didn't have to think twice. She threw her arms around him and said, "Yes, Luis. A thousand times yes." Luis pulled Sheridan off of him and slipped the ring on her finger. " This time," she smiled, "I will never take it off." Sheridan pulled Luis into a passionate kiss. Luis felt his heart skip a beat as he felt her warm, soft lips against hers. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her closer to him. They broke the kiss breathless. Sheridan nestled her head on his neck and said, "I'm so happy. It's finally over." Luis said, "Why do you think that?" Sheridan said, "Well, Roger, Pierre, and Jean Luc are dead. They will never harm us again." Luis said, "What about Jullian... and Alistair?" "I will be damned if they keep us apart. I will not ever EVER let them destroy our love." Luis smiled, "You've read my mind." Luis kissed her softly on the lips. It slowly intensified. Luis rolled over onto Sheridan and kissed her passionately. Sheridan suddenly fell off the bed. She landed with a thump on the ground. Luis gasped, "Sheridan, are you okay?" Sheridan had hit her head on the edge of the table, but she just laughed. Luis said, "I'm so sorry Sheridan." Sheridan said, "It's all right. I just bumped my head." "Are you sure?" "Yeah, I'm fine." said Sheridan climbing back onto the bed. Luis remembered the bleeding scratch that Sheridan had on her cheek from Beth. She said, "When I get out of here, I fully intend to teach Beth a lesson." Sheridan was very happy to hear this, but she tried not to show it. "Why?" "Because, she shouldn't have hurt you like that." "Oh Luis, It's just a scratch__." Luis interrupted, "Even so. Beth had no right to do that. I'm gonna get out of here and have a talk with Beth about what she did." Sheridan couldn't help but smile. It was finally going to be over. Finally. Jean Luc, Roger, and Pierre were dead, Beth was in trouble, and they would take care of Jullian and Alistair. It was finally going to be finished with. Luis and Sheridan were going to be happily married and no one could stop them. Luis said, "Well, we had better go get the doctor. I wanna get out of here as soon as possible." Sheridan helped Luis up and they walked out the door, hand in hand...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 17: Don't You Forgot it!

Sheridan's mouth dropped open and tears came flooding out of her eyes as she saw Luis staring back at her with his beautiful eyes. Sheridan's mouth formed into a huge smile and she cried, "Oh Luis." She flung her arms around him and squeezed them tightly. Luis put his arms around Sheridan. He was so happy to be holding her again. Last thing he knew, he was in that burning cottage. Next thing he knew, he was sitting in a hospital bed with Sheridan by his side. He remembered what he felt like before he passed out in that cottage. Sheridan and Luis were racing through the cottage and Luis's only thought was getting Sheridan out of there. He couldn't let anything happen to her. He heard a loud snap above him and he knew what he had to do. He pushed Sheridan away and a big pile of wood knocked him out. Now, he laid here in his bed as Sheridan hugged him. Sheridan cried even harder. "Oh Luis. I was so scared." "Shh." Luis said as he rubbed her back gently. This made Sheridan cry even harder. "Luis. Don't ever leave me again. Never, never. I can't bear to loose you again." "Hey, hey..." Luis said as he pulled Sheridan up. He looked into her eyes and said, "It's all right now. You'll never loose me, ever. I couldn't leave you Sheridan. I had to come back. I had to be with you. I love you." Sheridan burst into tears and collasped in his arms. She cried, "Luis, I love you. I love you so much. Please, forgive me." Luis asked, "Forgive you for what?" Sheridan turned her head up to look into his eyes. She could see all the passion and desire burning in his eyes. She didn't know if it was the first time she had seen that, or if she was just too happy to see him alive and well. Sheridan said, "I should have told you about those nightmares I had. I should have told you that I thought it was your father. Luis, please..." She collapsed in his arms again, "...take me back." Luis looked confused, "Take you back? Sheridan..." Luis pulled her up from his arms and looked deeply into her eyes. "Sheridan, I love you. Nothing can ever change that, all right? I don't care what you did or what Jullian said. To tell you the truth, I think he's lying, but the important thing is that no matter what you did, I love you. I will always love you." Sheridan looked at the floor, "But how could you? I might have killed someone, your own father." Luis said, "It doesn't matter. Sheridan... when I walked out of our cottage, I went for a walk. I realized that life wasn't worth living without you. I realized that, I didn't care what you did. Sheridan... I love you, with all of my heart... and don't you forget it." Sheridan was touched beyond words. She threw her arms around Luis and continued to cry. Luis rocked her slowly. Sheridan cried, "I love you, Luis." Luis whispered, "I love you too, honey." Sheridan buried her face in his chest as she cried. Luis lifted her head and gently kissed her lips. The kiss was very slow. They kissed each other numerous times until they heard the door opening.

Pilar walked in. She gasped when she saw that Luis was awake. "Luis," she shouted as she ran to his side. Luis cried, "Mama," as she hugged him tightly. She too started to cry. When they finally pulled back, Pilar said, "Oh thank god you're okay." Luis said, "Yeah. I am really lucky. I... I remember appearing somewhere very strange. There was a bright light and I wanted to go to it. I was about to go into the bright light, when I heard Sheridan's voice calling me." Luis looked over at Sheridan with loving eyes. "I knew that I had to come back. I couldn't leave her." Pilar smiled to herself at how cute Luis and Sheridan looked together. Then, Ethan came in. "Luis. You're awake." Luis smiled at Ethan for what seemed like the first time. "Hey Ethan." Ethan sat on the bottom of Luis's bed and said, "How are you feeling?" Luis said, "Fine I guess. I just feel a little crowded. How many people are here to visit me today?" Pilar said, "Ethan, me, and Beth." "Beth? Beth was here? Where is she?" asked Luis. Sheridan covered up the scratch on her face as she thought about her conversation with Beth earlier. Pilar said, "I don't know, but I haven't seen her. I'll go look for her." Pilar got up and Ethan said, "I'll go with you." He winked at Sheridan as they walked out the door.

Sheridan and Luis were alone again. Sheridan put on hand on his shoulder and the other one stroking his hair. Luis looked at Sheridan who had a dreamy look on her face. Luis said, "What?" Sheridan smiled lovingly, "Oh, I'm just so glad that you're all right." Luis smiled back at her. He could tell that she had been crying for a long time. He eyes were red and puffy and her shirt was wet. She still had tears streaking down her cheeks. Suddenly, Luis saw the bleeding scratch on Sheridan's face. His eyes got wide and he said, "Oh my gosh. Sheridan, what happened." At first, she didn't know what he was talking about, but he put his hand on her cheek and she flinched in pain. "Sheridan, did someone hurt you?" Luis asked with concern. Sheridan couldn't tell him that Beth did this, he would be very upset that his friend would do that. Sheridan tried to cover up. "Oh, it's nothing, Luis__." "Don't lie to me Sheridan! Who did this to you? Tell me so I can go knock their block off." Luis said seriously. Sheridan couldn't help but to smile. Luis said, "Well?" Sheridan looked down at the floor and back up at Luis. He was looking at her with eyes full of passion, desire, love, worry, concern, and happiness. Sheridan quietly said, "Beth." Luis didn't hear her. "What?" Sheridan spoke louder, "Beth. She tried to beat me up." Luis had a look of shock on his face. His face soon changed to anger. He then had a look of concern on his face. He cupped Sheridan's face in his hands and said, "Are you all right?" Sheridan said, "Yeah. I'm fine. I just feel a little sore." Luis smiled at her, but inside he was fuming. 'I'll get you for that, Beth. How dare you hurt the woman I love?' Luis thought. He looked into Sheridan gorgeous eyes and said, "Come here. Lie with me." Luis scooted over and Sheridan climbed into the bed next to him. She snuggled up to him. She laid her head on his chest and Luis wrapped his arms around her. Sheridan turned up her head to look at him. Luis pulled her shoulder towards him and he kissed her passionately. When they pulled away, Sheridan rested her head on Luis's chest. They fell asleep hearing the rhythms of each other's heart beats...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 18: Ready and Set!

As soon as Luis and Sheridan walked out of the room, Pilar came rushing up to them. "Luis. The doctor said that you are doing great and you can leave any time that you want to." Luis smiled with relief. "Good. I want to get out of here as soon as possible, and get back to my life." He smiled at Sheridan, who was beaming. She was so happy that it was finally over. Nothing, not even her family, could stand in the way of their happiness. They were going to get married whether her family liked it or not. Luis and Sheridan checked out of the hospital and decided to go get some rest. On their way out, Ethan said, "Are you guys gonna come back to Harmony?" Luis grimaced and thought for a moment. He didn't want to take the chance that Jullian or Alistair would do something, yet again, to keep them apart. Luis said, "I don't know. It would be pretty risky to go back there with Jullian and Alistair and all." Sheridan said, "Oh, Luis. Let's go home. I know you miss your family, and we will make sure that nothing comes between our future. Nothing can separate us now." Luis smiled at her, "Okay. Let's go back to Harmony." Pilar smiled, "Good. We will meet you at the airport in a few hours." Luis and Sheridan waved good-bye to everyone and got inside their car. They drove off to their cabin to pick up their things.

As soon as they got there, they got everything packed up. They were quite eager to get back to Harmony, even though Luis was a little nervous about Jullian and Alistair, but he knew that nothing could stand in their way now. Their love for each other was growing stronger and stronger everyday. Nothing could possibly tear it apart. And soon, they would be married. Luis was very excited to settle down with Sheridan. He made a mental note to talk with Hank and Beth about it. He especially wanted to talk to Beth, after the way she treated Sheridan. He wanted to make it clear to her that he loved Sheridan and only Sheridan. Luis was done packing way before Sheridan. He sat on the couch while she was finishing. He put his hands in his pocket and felt something. He pulled out Sheridan's necklace. He smiled to himself. "What are you smiling at Luis?" Luis looked up and he saw Sheridan standing in the doorway. Luis got up and said, "I found this." Luis put the necklace around her neck and Sheridan said, "Oh. I didn't even know I lost it. Thank you Luis." Sheridan picked up her bags. Luis frowned. Sheridan dropped her bags again and said, "What's wrong?" Luis said, "Hey. Don't I even get a kiss before we leave?" Sheridan smiled and pulled him into a passionate kiss. It was very short kiss, and Sheridan pulled back quickly, leaving Luis breathless. "Now, let's go. We'll miss our flight." She picked up her bags and ran to the car, leaving Luis wanting more. He hated when she did that. He grabbed his bags and jumped in the car. They drove off to the airport.

At the airport, Luis and Sheridan met up with Ethan and Pilar. Pilar hugged them and said, "Are you ready to go?" Luis said, "We're ready." "Well, we have about fifteen more minutes to wait until we board the plane." said Ethan. Suddenly, Luis cellphone rang. He picked it up and said, "Hello?" "Luis?" the voice said. "Yes. This is Luis." "This is Jullian." Luis was confused. Why the heck would Jullian Crane be calling him? He didn't know, but after what they did to Sheridan and him, he didn't want to talk with him. "What do you want?" "I need to talk with you about Sheridan." Jullian said. Luis motioned to Pilar, Ethan, and Sheridan that this was a private conversation and he stepped away to talk with Jullian. "Look, I don't want to here it. There is nothing you can do to make me stop loving Sheridan." Luis shouted. Jullian said, "Can you actually forgive someone who killed your own father?" Luis said, "I don't believe what you told her, and even if it was true, she was only a child at the time. No matter what she did, I will always love her. So just forget about it." Jullian said, "I order you to stay away from my sister. There is no way I will let you get involved with her." "You don't frighten me Jullian. Sheridan and I love each other and we are going to get married whether you like it or not." Luis yelled and then he hung up the phone. He sighed deeply and turned around to see Sheridan standing there. She was smiling at him. "My brother?" "Yeah." Luis sighed. Sheridan said, "No one has ever stood up to him before. You are one of a kind, Luis." Luis wrapped his arms around her and said, "I'm just fighting for our love," before kissing her gently. As they walked back to the others, Sheridan said, "There is nothing Julian can do to us now."

A few minutes later, they were ready to board the plane. They all sat in first class. Luis was very excited to be sitting in first class since he had always been in coach. When they got into the air, Luis looked over at Sheridan and saw that she was looking very sleepy. Luis rubbed the small of her back and said, "Are you okay?" Sheridan tried to hold back a yawn. "Yes, I'm fine. I'm... just a little tired." Luis smiled, "Come here." He put his arm around her and Sheridan wrapped her arms around his waist. She laid her head against his chest. She curled up beside him and settled in. Luis loved the feeling of holding her in his arms. It was the most magical feeling in the world. To feel the touch of her soft skin, to smell her perfume. He could stay like that forever. He gently stroked her hair until she fell asleep. Luis stayed awake watching her sleep, thinking about how beautiful she was, and how she was his forever...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 19: Confrontations!

When the plane arrived in Harmony, Sheridan was still asleep. Luis didn't want to wake her, so he waited until everyone else got off. Then, he shook her gently. "Sheridan?" he whispered, "It's time to get up!" Sheridan rolled over, but she didn't get up. She moaned in her sleep. Luis shook her a little harder, "Sheridan. We have to get off the plane." Sheridan finally opened her eyes. "Umm?" She had a very confused, tired look on her face. Luis kneeled down up her and said, "We're in Harmony now sweetheart." Sheridan's eyes were barely open and she almost seemed to be dead. She said, "Oh, yeah. Sure, I'm sorry to keep you waiting." Luis helped her up and said, "You look tired. I'll take you home." Sheridan shook her head, "No, Luis. You should go see your family. You don't need to go out of your way to drop me off at my cottage." Luis said, "Who said anything about a cottage? Jullian said that the cottage would be taken away from you, remember?" Sheridan remembered when Jullian told her that she would be cut off from the Cranes and her cottage would be taken away. Sheridan nodded and asked, "So, where are you taking me?" "To my house. You can sleep there." A small smile crept onto Sheridan's face. They walked off the plane and met up with Pilar and Ethan. Ethan said, "Well, I would love to stay with you guys, but I have some business to do. I'll see you later, all right?" Luis was holding Sheridan and she was resting her head on his shoulder. "That's okay, Ethan. I'm gonna take Sheridan home to get to sleep and then, I think we're all going to crash for the night." Ethan nodded and walked away.

Pilar, Luis, and Sheridan went to get a cab. When they got in, Sheridan immediately rested her head on Luis's lap and closed her eyes. Luis slightly chuckled and stroked her hair gently. She looked so beautiful, even when she was asleep. He was so happy that he would be able to wake up every morning by her side and watch her sleep. They had gotten through many problems, but they have always gotten by them. Now, Luis was even more prepared for what the world would throw at them next. Whatever it was, they would be able to break through it. Nothing can get past true love. Luis was determined to fight for his love for Sheridan, no matter what it took. He would make sure that Hank, Beth, and Alistair would stay away from her. He didn't want them within twenty feet of her. If it meant hurting Beth, than so be it.

At the Lopez-Fitzgerald house, Theresa and Miguel were in the living room. They couldn't sleep after everything that had happened lately. They were worried about Sheridan and their brother. Theresa was pacing around the living room and Miguel was sitting on the couch. Theresa said, "Why haven't we heard from Luis or Mama yet? Something might be wrong." "Theresa__." "What if Luis died in that fire that Mama told us about?" "Theresa__." "What if Mama and Sheridan were so upset, that they committed suicide?" said Theresa. "THERESA!" Miguel jumped up, "I'm sure everything's fine. They are probably on their way home. They'll be back before ya know it. And besides, the phone lines went out two days ago, so there was no way that Luis or Mama could have contacted us. I'm sure they'll be home soon." No sooner were the words out of his mouth, when they heard the doorbell ring. Theresa jumped, "It might be them." She raced to the door and Miguel rolled his eyes as he followed her. Theresa opened the door and saw Luis standing there. "LUIS," she cried and she hugged him tightly. Luis hugged his sister back. Miguel saw Luis and said, "Luis, you're here." Miguel ran to Luis and hugged him too. Luis was now almost completely covered with Theresa and Miguel hugging him. He said, "I take it you guys missed me." Theresa and Miguel pulled back and Theresa said, "Are you kidding? We were worried sick. When we heard that you could have died, we were so scared." Luis said, "Well, don't worry. I'm here now. Everything's fine." Pilar came up to them and hugged them all. Sheridan stood in the doorway and leaned on it. She smiled and thought, 'Their family is so wonderful. I wish I could have had a family like that.' After they pulled back, Luis remembered Sheridan. He turned around and saw her smiling in the doorway, looking as though she would collapse at any moment. Luis walked over to Sheridan and said, "I'll gonna put Sheridan to bed. And you all should do the same." Miguel said, "Sure bro. Good night." Pilar, Theresa, and Miguel walked to their bedrooms. Luis scooped Sheridan into his arms and Sheridan put her arms around Luis's neck. Luis carried her to his room. He set her down on his bed. Sheridan laid back and looked up at Luis, who was sitting on the edge of the bed. Sheridan brought her hand up to his face and caressed it gently. She smiled and said, "God, I love you." Luis smiled back, "I love you too." He leaned in and kissed her gently. Luis got off the bed and said, "Now, get some rest." Sheridan closed her eyes and Luis walked out of the room.

He walked to the kitchen and made himself some coffee. He sat down at the table and thought to himself. What was he going to do after Sheridan and he got married? The house was too small for another person, but Luis didn't want to leave his family. Maybe he could buy Sheridan's cottage back and they could live there together, or maybe they would get a different house in Harmony. But he wanted to be somewhere close to his family. He knew that Theresa and Miguel were grown up now, but he still felt the need to protect them and be there for them. He wanted to be there for them whenever they were upset, or whenever they just wanted to talk. Through and through, they were in only people who actually supported Luis to have a relationship with Sheridan. It was probably because they had loves of their own as well. But he didn't want to make this hard on Sheridan. After all, after Jullian cut her off from the Cranes, it would be very upsetting for her for a while. He had to be there for her as well and protect her from those who want them apart. All he knew was that nothing could come between him and his family, or him and Sheridan. Suddenly, he heard a knock on the front door. Luis said, "Who could be coming here at this hour?" Luis looked at his watch and saw that it was actually 6: 00 in the morning. It was later than he thought. Luis walked to the front door and opened it up to see Jullian Crane!

Luis's facial expression went from surprise to disgust. "What are you doing here?" Jullian pushed Luis out of the way and walked into the house. Luis closed the door. Jullian said, "I am here looking for Sheridan." Luis stood in front of Jullian and crossed his arms. "She's sleeping," he said. Jullian said, "Well, I don't care. I demand to see her now. "I don't think so," Luis said in disgust. Jullian said, "You can't stop me." He pushed Luis out of the way and quickly walked to Luis's room. He was about to open the door when Luis stepped in the way. Luis said, "I will not allow you near Sheridan anymore. I will not let you hurt her." Inside Luis's room, Sheridan heard some noise outside the door. She got up and walked up to the door and put her ear against it. Jullian said, "Sheridan is my own sister__." "Yeah, and you don't give a damn about her. All you care about is your money, not even your own sister. From what I have seen and heard, Sheridan has hardly had a real family in her life. The only person who ever loved her was her mother, but then, she died. Then, you did nothing but treat her like dirt." Jullian said, "Oh that's not true__." Luis interrupted, "The hell it is. I have seen the look in Sheridan's eyes when she talks about you. I see pain. I can tell that you were mean to her as a child. You weren't ever there for her. What it seems to me is that her mother was the only good person in your family. Sheridan tells me what a wonderful person her mother is and she misses her terribly. Her mother was the only person in the world who loved her, and then, she had to die. But ya know what, I love her too. More than anything else in the world. And I will not let you destroy our love for each other." Tears fell from Sheridan's face as she heard Luis standing up for her. She was touched. Jullian said, "Let me see her NOW!" Luis said, "She is sleeping!" Jullian said, "I don't care." Luis said, "Yeah, what else is knew?" Jullian said, "Stand out of the way Luis." Jullian tried to push Luis out of the way, but Luis pushed him against the wall. Luis grabbed his by the collar and said, "Now you listen to me Jullian. I don't want you so much as twenty feet of Sheridan. You stay away from her. If I ever see you come near her, I swear to god I'll get you." Luis released Jullian and led him to the front door. He pushed Jullian out and closed the door. Luis felt the steam rising up inside of him. He went to his room and opened the door. The door ran into Sheridan and she stumbled back. Luis looked at her surprised. "Hey you. What are you doing out of bed?" Sheridan said, "Oh, I heard you talking to Jullian outside. That was so sweet of you, Luis. To stand up for me like that." Luis took her hands and kissed her. "No problem." Luis and Sheridan climbed into bed together and fell asleep in each other's arms...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 20: Confrontations #2!

When Sheridan and Luis woke up, it was almost twelve o'clock. Luis slowly opened his eyes and smiled when he felt warm arms wrapped around him. He looked down and saw Sheridan sleeping soundly. She had her arms wrapped snugly around his chest and she rested her head on his chest and smiled in her sleep. Luis gently stroked her hair and watched her sleep. Sheridan woke up. She turned herself up to look at Luis. "Hi," she said shyly. "Hi," Luis laughed. They didn't say another word. They leaned in and kissed each other passionately. The kiss seemed to last forever. Luis was loosing control quickly. He wanted so badly to make love to her right there and then. He rolled on top of her and kissed her with all the intensity he had. His hands roamed around her body and were about to take of her shirt, when he looked at the clock. When he saw what time it was, he broke off the kiss. "Oh my god. It's twelve o'clock. I have to be at the youth center." Luis jumped out of bed and hurried to get ready. Sheridan laid there on the bed for a few moments, a little disappointed that he had to leave. Luis noticed it and he sat down on the edge of the bed. Sheridan sat up and Luis said, "Hey. I'm sorry I have to leave. Hope I didn't get your hopes up." He brushed a piece of hair out of her face as she said, "Well you did. You owe me." Luis laughed, "Fine... well, I have to go." Luis got up and Sheridan jumped up. "Let me come with you." Luis looked confused. "Why?" "Because I can't bear to be apart from you for five minutes." Luis said, "Well, maybe you should get some rest." Luis was about to walk out the door, but Sheridan blocked him. "Oh no you don't." Luis sighed, "Sheridan. I have to get to work." "I will come with you, and besides... you owe me." Luis laughed and they walked to the car.

At the youth center, Beth and Hank were talking. "YOU DID WHAT?!?!" Hank yelled. "I know Hank. It was wrong of me. I'm sorry, but that girl really gets to me. She's taking Luis away from me." Beth explained. Hank said, "Well, that doesn't give you the right to slap Sheridan." Beth said, "I know, but she deserved it. Argh... I am so tired of everything revolving around little miss princess. I just wish Luis would wake up and realize it." "Well, don't worry. I'll take care of Sheridan. She will want me soon and Luis will want you," said Hank. Beth nodded and smiled a little. Then, Sheridan and Luis walked in. Luis looked at Sheridan and said, "I'm gonna go get some paper work. You can help me with some of it. I'll be right back." Luis left to go get some papers. Sheridan smiled to herself. She walked around the room to pass the time. Suddenly, Beth popped out and pushed her against the wall. Beth was pressing her against the wall. Beth said, "Well, look who's here. It's the little princess." Sheridan was more angry than confused now. "What do you want Beth?" Beth pushed Sheridan harder. "I want you to stay out of our lives. You know, Luis would be mine if it weren't for you. You Cranes always destroy everything..." Luis was coming into the room when he saw Beth pushing Sheridan against the wall. He dropped the papers and walked over to Beth. Beth didn't see Luis coming, so she continued talking, "You know, everything would be just perfect if you hadn't come to Harmony. You are nothing but a rotten, spoiled, selfish bitch who doesn't deserve anything!" Luis was now standing behind Beth, waiting for her reaction when she realized that he was there. Sheridan looked at Beth disgusted and said, "I think that you're the bitch here, Beth." With that, Beth punched Sheridan in the face. Sheridan fell to the ground. Then, Luis pushed Beth as hard as he could against the wall. Beth screamed and looked up at Luis in shock. There was anger and hatred in his eyes. Beth said, "Luis I__." Luis said, "You bitch! How dare you hurt the woman I love? If you ever, EVER, come near her again, I'll kill you." Beth said, "Luis, please__." "No! No! I have had enough, okay. Look, in case you haven't realized, I am in love with Sheridan. Only Sheridan. She is the best thing that has ever happened to me. After what you have done to her, you are no longer my friend. God help me, if I see you hurt Sheridan again..." Luis stopped when he heard Sheridan moan in pain. He let go of Beth and ran to Sheridan side. He cradled her in his arms and looked up at Beth. "Damn you, Beth. How dare you?" Beth's cheeks turned red. Then, Hank came in. He saw Luis holding Sheridan in his arms and he stopped in his tracks. "What is going on here?" Luis said, "Beth tried to hurt Sheridan, again." Hank looked at Beth angrily, but was even more upset about Luis holding Sheridan. Luis said, "There is something that I need to tell you, and I need to tell you know." Beth and Hank looked at each other, then back at Luis. Luis said, "Sheridan and I... we love each other. We love each other with all of our hearts. We have loved each other for the longest time. We... we're going to get married." Beth and Hank's mouths dropped open and Hank said, "Sheridan. Is this true?" Sheridan nodded. Beth was fuming. She walked up to them and said, "You bitch! YOU UNGRATEFUL BITCH!!" Beth raised her hand to hit Sheridan, but Luis grabbed her hand in midair and threw her against the wall. Hank was so mad, he ran out of the room. Luis was holding Sheridan tightly and he glared at Beth with angry eyes. Beth got up and walked out.

Luis whispered, "It's okay, Sheridan. They're gone now." Sheridan looked up at Luis. Tears were running down her face. She managed to smile at him and said, "I love you." "I love you too, Sheridan." He held her against his chest and rocked her slowly as she calmed down. When she was okay, Luis helped her up. "You know what. Maybe I should skip work today. All I want to do is go home and be with you." Sheridan smiled and Luis noticed the pain in her eyes disappear. "And you know what, I say I still owe you one," Luis smiled seductively. "Oh well, what did you have in mind." "Well..." Luis kissed her lips and moved down to her neck slowly, "I was thinking... that maybe... we could go back home... go back in bed... make love... go to sleep... wake up... and repeat." Sheridan laughed at this. She said, "If we keep repeating, you'll get tired of it someday." Luis's lips left her neck and kissed her gently and softly on the lips. He pulled back and said, "Get tired of making love to you? Never." Sheridan said, "Well......... okay." They walked out of the youth center hand-in-hand. As they walked out, Hank walked into the room. He watched Sheridan and Luis leave. He said to himself, "Sheridan may be yours for now. But in the end, she will be mine. I'll make sure of that." Then, Hank's phone rang and Hank picked it up. "Hello?"... "Oh, hello Jullian Crane."... Don't worry. I remember the plan... Yes, I understand. Don't worry... By this time tomorrow, Luis and Sheridan will never have a future together... If it means risking her life, so be it."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 21: Wow!

At the youth center, Hank was on the phone with Jullian Crane. Jullian asked, "You're positive that this will work." "Trust me. I'm make sure that Luis and Sheridan never make it to the alter." Jullian said, "Marvelous. Do you remember everything you have to do?" "Everything," Hank replied. Jullian said, "Well, come over to the Crane Mansion and I'll give you everything you need to carry out the job." "How about my money?" "You will get the money after the job is carried out," snapped Jullian. "I'm not sure I can trust you on that one, but I'll make you a deal. You give me half of the money, and I'll take care of Luis and Sheridan. After my work is carried out, you will give me the other half of the money." Hank suggested. Jullian smiled, "I like your thinking, Bennett. All right. It's a deal. Now get over here quickly, and don't let anyone see you." "Right away Mr., Crane." Hank hung up the phone and thought to himself, 'If I can't have Sheridan, than no one can.' Hank walked out of the youth center and went to the Mansion.

At the Lopez-Fitzgerald house, Luis and Sheridan had just gotten home. Everyone else was out, so they had the house to themselves. Luis closed the door behind him and wrapped his arms around her and started to kiss her neck. "So... everyone's gone... we have the house to ourselves... what do you want to do?" Sheridan smiled seductively and said, "I can think of a few ideas. What do you have in mind?" Luis looked deeply into her eyes and said, "It's a surprise." "Surprise? What kind of surprise?" "Can't say." "Oh come on Luis. I can't wait. Tell me. What are you up to?" Sheridan pushed Luis playfully. Luis started to walk into the living room. "Sorry, no can do." "Oh no you don't. You're not getting away that easy." Sheridan jumped on Luis and tackled him to the couch. "I wanna know what my surprise is." Sheridan whined. "If I told you, it would ruin the surprise." Luis laughed. Sheridan smiled, "If I kissed you, would you tell me." Luis smiled and said, "Maybe." Sheridan leaned forward and kissed Luis passionately. Luis could tell by the kiss that she really was desperate to find out what the surprise was. Luis felt like he was in heaven. Sheridan broke off the kiss and started kissing down his neck. Luis wanted so much to make love to her, but he knew it could wait for the night. Sheridan made her way back up to his lips and kissed him passionately again before she pulled back and said, "Now, tell me." Luis smiled and said, "No." Sheridan whined, "Luis!" "Would you like some cheese to go with the whine?" Luis laughed. "But you said__." "I said maybe. Now, get off of me." Sheridan smiled to herself. She crossed her arms on top of his chest and rested her chin on them. "I'm not leaving until you tell me." Luis took his finger and taped her nose as he said, "If you go and get dressed up, and meet me back down here in thirty minutes, you'll find out." Sheridan immediately jumped off of Luis and ran to go get dressed. Luis said, "Sheridan..." Sheridan stopped in her tracks and turned around. Luis said, "Thirty minutes. No more, no less." Sheridan smiled and dashed out of the room. Luis laughed and laid his head on the couch. 'Boy, will she besurprised.'

At the Crane Mansion, the sun was beginning to set. Hank came to the front door wearing a hood over his head. He walked up to the front door and looked around before knocking on the door. Jullian Crane answered the door and said, "Good. You're here. Come on in." Hank came inside. Hank looked around. The mansion was quite impressive. Since he had never been there before, he didn't know how great it looked. Jullian said, "Come into my study." Hank followed Jullian into the study. They both sat down at a desk and Jullian said, "Does anyone know that you're here?" "None." "Good." Jullian took out a small briefcase and opened it. Inside, there were 75,000,000 dollars... and that was only half of the money he was being paid. Hank grinned, "Excellent." Jullian handed the briefcase to Hank and said, "Remember. No more money until you carry out the work." "No problem Mr. Crane. Consider it done." Jullian smiled at how wonderfully the plan would work. Hank said, "Now, give me the stuff."

At the Lopez-Fitzgerald house, Sheridan was getting ready for the surprise Luis had in store for her. She had a feeling that it was extra special, so she put on a black, spaghetti strap, sparkling dress. She put on her favorite perfume and fixed her hair up perfectly. Then, she waited impatiently for thirty minutes to pass. She kept staring at the clock like it was New Year's Eve and it was almost midnight. When she saw the that exactly thirty minutes had past, she was excited. But she wanted Luis to be ready for her. She walked out of the room and called, "Luis. Can I come out now?" "Come on out," Luis called back. Sheridan took a deep breath and walked into the living room. She gasped at what she saw. Luis had cleared out the furniture and he had a romantic dinner for two set up for them. There were china plates, wine, and flowers. (It was a lot like that dinner that Sam and Grace had at the ski lodge.). Candles were everywhere and romantic music was playing. She felt tears come into her eyes. As soon as Luis saw Sheridan walk in, he was speechless. That dress she was wearing made her look even more beautiful and sexy than ever. Luis felt dizzy at the sight of her. He came back to his senses and walked over to her. He took her hand and said, "May I have this dance, Miss Crane?" "Oh Luis. You are so wonderful." Luis and Sheridan walked out to the middle of the living room and started dancing. They gazed into each other's eyes. The light of the candles reflected off of Sheridan's eyes and it made them look like billions of stars. Her eyes were so beautiful. He could see everything inside of her. What a kind, wonderful person she was. Suddenly, he saw tears fall from her eyes. "Sheridan, what's wrong?" Sheridan replied, "I'm just so happy. Why are you doing this? I mean... what's the occasion?" Luis smiled and answered, "I don't need an occasion to show you how much I love you." He leaned in and kissed her gently. Sheridan rested her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes. She felt like she was in a dream. Like everything in the world disappeared and it was just Luis and her, holding each other closely, feeling each other's heart beats. Everything was perfect. She wouldn't trade this for anything in the world. When the song ended, Luis said, "Okay. Now, it's time to eat." Sheridan and Luis walked to the table and they sat down. Sheridan said, "How did you get this?" "Sam told me that they had perfect dinner for twos at the Sea Scape." Sheridan said, "Luis. This is so sweet of you." Luis smiled and thanked her. They ate there dinner and Luis said, "Before we eat desert, I want to show you something special. Luis took her hand and led her out of the house. They sat down on a swinging bench outside. Luis sat down and put his arms around her. They looked up at the sky. "They say this is the most beautiful night of the year." said Luis. Sheridan stared in awe at the amazing sky above her. She had no idea that their were so many stars. They seemed to blink and sparkle. There were shooting stars everywhere. Sheridan said, "It's so beautiful." She cuddled up to Luis and rested her head on his chest as they dazed up at the stars.

At the Crane Mansion, Jullian reached into his desk and pulled out a small bottle. The bottle had been in a locked drawer, so whatever it was, it was very important. There was a kind of liquid inside. A liquid used to hurt and even kill people............ POISON!!!

To Be Continued...

Chapter 22: Mission Accomplished!

Coming Soon...