Chapter 8: Just In The Line Of Duty
Chapter 8:
Sheridan suddenly felt a sick. Her insides knotted up and she was nauseated. “Hank,” she said in utter surprise. “I didn’t see you standing there.” “That was quite obvious, Sheridan,” he said bitterly. Luis was looking at the ground, unable to look Hank in the face. “Hank, I didn’t mean for you to hear that,” she said carefully, not knowing exactly what to say. She’d never seen Hank look so angry. She was a little frightened. “Sheridan, just tell me why! Why were you leading me on? Can you answer that question?” Hank demanded. “Hank, I never intended to mislead you,” Sheridan said defensively. “I told you many times you were a great guy and I liked you, but I didn’t want a relationship with you.”
“YOU said, you weren’t ready for a relationship with ANYONE!” Hank bellowed. “Hank, I’m sorry. I never intended to hurt you. I never intended to hurt anyone,” Sheridan said with regret. “I just kept getting myself into the middle of these impossible situations and didn’t know how to get out of them.” “Sheridan, if you’ll remember, I gave you a chance to get out of both the New Year’s Eve date as well as the Ice-Skating date. I asked you both times, if you knew it was me. BOTH TIMES YOU SAID YES!” He shouted. “Hank, I am terribly sorry. I don’t know what else I can say.” Sheridan felt terrible, but knew something like this was bound to happen someday. She knew Hank liked her, but had no idea he would become so angry. He seemed to be becoming angrier by the second.
“And Luis, my best buddy! HA!” Hank mockingly laughed. His eyes resembled those of someone demonically possessed. You told me you had no interest in Sheridan. ’I want nothing more to do with Sheridan. If she ever comes back to Harmony she’s all yours Hank!’ That’s what you said.” “Look, Hank,” Luis said, “I also told you before that Sheridan got to me the way no other woman ever has. I told you, I thought she was the one.” “Yeah, but you changed your mind after that. She slapped you, remember?” He fumed.
“Well, I’ve changed my mind again!” Luis shouted. “Sheridan and I have cleared up the misunderstanding that caused her to slap me. I probably would have felt the same way if the situation had been reversed. We’ve both hurt each other a great deal in the last few weeks and we are trying to set things right by being honest with each other. We want to try and start this relationship again.” “Well you could have told me you still had feelings for her, Luis. You had to have still had them or you wouldn’t have been able to just pick up where you left off,” Hank yelled.
“Hank, how could I tell YOU I had feelings for her when I couldn’t even admit it to MYSELF? I was trying to convince myself I wanted nothing to do with her. I’m sorry Hank. It’s hard to be honest with someone else when you can’t be honest with yourself. I also told you at one point, it didn’t matter what you or I wanted, it would be Sheridan’s decision,” Luis bellowed. “Well you both have made the WRONG decision this time,” Hank seethed. With that he turned on his heels and stormed off into the night.
Sheridan was shaking at this point. Tears were beginning to fall down her cheeks. Luis gently put his arms around her and held her tight. “Let’s go in,” Luis said gently. They both stood up and walked into the house. Pilar was finishing the dishes when Luis led Sheridan into the house. “What’s wrong?” Pilar asked with concern. “It’s Hank,” Luis said angrily. “He overheard a conversation Sheridan and I were having and went ballistic. Honestly Mama, I‘ve never seen Hank like that before.” “Oh Dear God,” Pilar said. “What did he hear?”
“Sheridan must have seen the look on my face when I saw Hank hanging all over her. She came outside to explain her relationship with Hank. We decided earlier today we were going to tell each other the truth about things, so she did,” Luis explained. “Unfortunately for Hank, the last two dates Sheridan had with him were misunderstandings. One she thought I was asking her out and the other she thought she was asking me out. Sheridan then was afraid to straighten it out because she didn’t want to hurt Hank’s feelings.” “Hank did not take this well, I take it,” Pilar stated. “That’s an understatement, Mama. Hank was like someone I’ve never seen. It was almost as if he were possessed,” he said.
“I think it’s time for all of us to get some sleep. You two have had a long day. Luis, why don’t you get Sheridan settled in upstairs. Where is Theresa? I thought she was outside with you?” “She was Mama, but she went to the Bennett’s to get Miguel. I’m sure they’ll both be home any minute,” Luis said. “I’ll see you both in the morning,” Pilar smiled. Sheridan walked over to Pilar and gave her a hug. “Thank you Pilar,” she said. “For everything.” “You’re welcome Sheridan,” Pilar said. “You know I’d do anything for you.” Luis took Sheridan by the hand and led her up to his room. When they entered the room, Sheridan suddenly realized she didn’t have anything with her. Since Luis had kidnapped her, she’d never packed anything. “Luis, I don’t have any clothes! Nothing!” She said in dismay.
Luis smiled. “How about a pair of sweats? I know they’re not designer, but I imagine they'll be more comfortable to sleep in than the clothes you’ve been wearing for the last two days.” “Has it been that long?” She asked in shock. “Almost if you count the time difference between here and Paris,” he grinned. “Wow, I didn’t realize, she said. “Sweats would be great, Luis. Thank you.” Sheridan smiled shyly. Luis gathered a pair of sweats and handed them to Sheridan. “Here you go;” he said staring deeply into her eyes. “I think you will be swimming in them though,” he said softly. “They’ll be fine, Luis,” she smiled. They both stared at each other for what seemed like an eternity.
Luis finally came out of the spell he was under. “I’ll leave you to get dressed,” he said. “Will you come back to say goodnight?” Sheridan asked, hoping he would say yes. “If you want me to, I will,” he answered gently. “I’d like that,” she said demurely. “OK then,” Luis grinned. “How about a cup of hot chocolate?” “With the little marshmallows?” She asked. “Of course! What else?” He answered. “That sounds great, Luis,” she said smiling. “I’ll see you in a few minutes then. Sheridan watched as Luis walked down the hall and smiled after him. She then closed the door and changed her clothes. Somehow wearing Luis’ sweats gave Sheridan a feeling of comfort she’d never had. As tired as she was, she felt more alive than she could ever remember being before in her life. Sheridan opened the door again and then she wrapped her arms around herself and closed her eyes. She brought to mind the wonderful moments she’d spent with Luis in the last few hours.
Sheridan continued in her reverie as she stood in front of the window waiting for Luis’ return. She wasn’t looking out the window, just standing there in a dreamlike state. “Oh, if this is a dream, I hope I never wake up,” she said out loud. Luis had just returned with two cups of hot chocolate. He was about to make his presence known when he heard Sheridan talking. He quietly placed the mugs on his nightstand and walked up behind Sheridan. He wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her neck. “This is no dream, Sheridan. It’s real.” He continued to lay sensual kisses on her neck, causing her to shiver.
Sheridan managed to turn around to face Luis, finding her face was only inches from his. “Luis, do you know how good it feels to be here in your arms?” “I have a good idea,” he said with his killer smile. Sheridan felt her heart begin to pound wildly due to her close proximity to Luis. “Do you have any idea how sexy you look right now?” Luis asked seductively. “Luis!” Sheridan said slightly embarrassed. “You call this sexy?” She questioned as she tugged at the sweatshirt that was practically at her knees.
“I sure do,” Luis answered in a husky voice. “Actually, it looks like there’s room for two in there. Do you feel like sharing?” Sheridan’s entire body became hot and a lump developed in her throat preventing her from speaking. She just looked at him, gazing deep into his eyes. She saw desire and passion in his eyes, such that she’d never seen before. She felt her breathing become labored just looking at him. Suddenly Luis leaned in and kissed her fiercely on the mouth. Their lips parted, the kiss escalating to something that was almost out of control. Sheridan threw her arms around Luis, one hand rifling his hair, the other wandering up and down his back. Luis held her neck with one hand and was running his other hand up and down her side and thigh.
“Oh my God, Luis,” she panted through kisses, “ I’ve never felt like this before,” She returned to kissing him, her conscious mind now a blur as she found herself totally lost in the moment. “Neither have I Sheridan,” Luis said in a deep whisper. He kissed her harder, both hands now moving up and down her body wildly. One hand came to a stop at Sheridan’s breast. He gently rubbed her breast, causing Sheridan to softly moan. They both knew they had to stop, but neither willing to separate. They’d been fighting their feelings for so long. Now months of build up tensions and desire were being unleashed. They continued exploring each other, unaware they had an audience.
“So Miguel,” Theresa said, “I guess we’re going to need to hose these guys down with ice water, don’t you think?” Miguel laughed, “I think you’re right sis,” he said. Luis and Sheridan jumped back when they heard voices. They turned to face Theresa and Miguel, totally breathless and embarrassed. Luis, breathless and with a red face asked with annoyance, “Did either of you ever hear of knocking?” “Sorry Luis,” Theresa laughed giddily, “But the door was open. Miguel and I wanted to say goodnight.” Now Luis felt like an idiot. ‘I left the door open, brilliant Luis,’ he thought to himself. “Oh,” was all he could say. After regaining his composure a bit he said, “I’m sorry I yelled at both of you.”
“That’s all right Luis,” Miguel said smiling. “I gotta tell you bro, that sure was some kiss! Oh, and Sheridan? I just wanted to tell you I’m glad you’re back in Harmony. I’m also glad that you and Luis have made up.” “Thank you Miguel,” Sheridan said shyly, her cheeks still very flushed. “Miguel, don’t you mean ‘MADE OUT’?” Theresa asked with a devilish grin. Miguel laughed. Luis faked a smile. “Look you two, enough is enough. Time for you to go to bed. Good Night!” “Goodnight Luis, Goodnight Sheridan,” Miguel and Theresa said in chorus. The two pulled the door closed and giggled as they left. Luis caught Miguel winking just as the door was closing. He quickly ran over to his bed, grabbed a pillow and tossed it at the door. He then let out a relieved laugh.
“Sheridan, I am so sorry,” Luis apologized. “I didn’t realize I left the door open.” Sheridan smiled. “It’s ok, Luis, really. We were getting a bit carried away.” She then lowered her head and quietly said, “I’m not sure I could have stopped on my own.” Luis chuckled when he heard this. His heart pounded when he thought Sheridan might want him as much as he wanted her. He needed to get himself in control, as he knew he shouldn’t even be THINKING what he was thinking. “Sheridan, I know we agreed to take things slowly, but I don’t know if I can. I lose all sense of reality when I’m near you.”
“Luis, we need to talk,” Sheridan said. “But not here and not now. Right now I really need some sleep, but maybe tomorrow we could go out. Maybe on a date?” “Are you asking ME out AGAIN, Miss Crane?” Luis kidded. “I most certainly am,” Sheridan said with a seductive smile. “How long do you think we’ll be needed for questioning at the police station?” “We may not even be needed tomorrow, Sheridan. We’re supposed to sit tight until we’re called in. Tina will be arriving with Interpol and the Gendarmes,” Luis answered. “And I accept your date.” He gave her his killer smile. “Where are you taking me?”
“Tina’s coming back?” Sheridan asked in surprise. “Yeah, She’s been temporarily assigned to the Harmony P.D. as my partner until this whole mess is finished,” Luis said. “I’m glad. I need to thank her,” Sheridan said. “What would you think of a romantic picnic lunch on the beach? The weather has been wonderful, yet it’s really too early for many people to be headed for the shore.” “I think I’d like it very much,” Luis answered. “As long as it’s in a VERY secluded area.” Sheridan laughed slightly and felt her cheeks grow hot at the suggestive quality in Luis’ voice. “I think we can arrange that,” she agreed. “Now, we both need to get some sleep. This jet lag stuff doesn't agree with me,” Luis grinned. “I’m having all sorts of crazy thoughts I’ve never had before.”
“That’s not jet lag,” Sheridan said with a raised brow. “I just had another one myself.” “Oh?” What might that be?” Luis asked curiously. Sheridan smiled at him. “I just thought how wonderful it would be to fall asleep with your arms wrapped around me.” “Now that’s one idea I think I can arrange.” Luis took Sheridan’s hand and led her to the bed. “Ok. Get in,” he said as he pulled the covers back to his twin bed. “Luis,” she protested as she climbed into bed, “I don’t know if Pilar would approve of this.” “Well I’ll go find out then,” Luis grinned. He gave Sheridan a quick, but passionate kiss on the lips and opened his door. “Don’t you dare fall asleep without me.” He smiled and ran down the hall, leaving Sheridan in shock.
Hank Bennett angrily paced the confines of his room at the B&B. He was angry, hurt and frustrated. Frustrated, that Luis had apparently beaten him again. Once more his “best buddy” had taken the girl he wanted away from him. This time, however, the girl didn’t just have a pretty face, she had money too.
“I don’t get it,” Hank said out loud to himself. “She’s a Crane! Luis hates the Cranes. Why did he lie to me? He’s always told me about the girls he’s wanted before, even if I was after the same girl. Damn him! Damn her too! Why the hell didn’t she just tell me she thought that card was from Luis? Why the hell did she let me think I was the one she wanted to spend New Year’s Eve with, when it was Luis all along? OH MAN!!” Hank was pacing faster. His hands would one minute rumple his hair then he’d pull them down, punching one hand into the other.
Every once in awhile, Hank would stop, look at the telephone. He would then wave his hand in dismissal and return to pacing. The longer he thought about Luis and Sheridan the more he stopped and looked at the phone. “I could have had it all,” he said. “A beautiful woman, the lifestyle I was born to live (he laughed cynically) and all that Crane money. But no, once again, LUIS beat me. Always LUIS! Damn him! Damn her too.”
Again, Hank stopped pacing and looked at the phone. This time, he didn’t return to his pacing, however. Hank walked over to the phone. “Well, if I can’t have Sheridan, thek at least I can have the money.” He took a deep breath and picked up the phone, dialing a number. Yeah, it’s me... I’ll do it... I know what I said before, but I don’t care about that anymore... Look, all I want is the money... So, if someone gets hurt, they get hurt... Not my problem... I understand... I’ll be here...” Hank hung up the phone and heaved a nervous sigh. “Well, that’s it,” he said. “There is no turning back now.” Hank walked over to his bed and fell on top of it. “Hell won’t be so bad as long as I have money there,” he laughed. Hank lay on his bed thinking about what he would be doing. After what seemed like an eternity, he fell into a very restless sleep.
“Hey Mama,” Luis said as he walked into the kitchen where his mother was finishing cleaning up. “Hijo, did you get Sheridan settled in?” Pilar asked. “I’m trying to Mama,” he said. “I think I’m going to stay with her until she falls asleep, if that’s OK with you?” Pilar smiled at him, which confused Luis. “Luis, yes, it’s fine with me. I know you are a grown man now. I also know you would never do anything to upset me. You have been a wonderful son and from what I can see, you have used good judgment when it concerned women. You never were one to take advantage of them, when your heart was not there. I just trust you will use the same good judgment, now that Sheridan has your heart. Luis stood there in silence as he listened to his mother. He was not quite sure where this was leading.
“Let me ask you one question Luis. Do you love Sheridan enough to one day marry her?” Pilar asked. Luis laughed. It was not a laugh of amusement, but rather of nervousness. “Mama, Sheridan and I have many obstacles in our way, one of, which is the fact she’s a Crane. Julian wouldn’t like it too much if I asked Sheridan to marry me. But, the way I feel about her right now, I would marry her in an instant. I love her more than I thought it was possible for one human being to love another. I just need to find a way to tell her.” “You will know when the time is right to tell her, Luis.” “I just wish I knew for sure how she feels about me,” he said. “And she is probably wondering the same thing, Hijo,” Pilar said.
“You know, Mama, you are right. It’s holding back the way we think and feel that partially caused our problems in the first place,” Luis said happily. “I’m going to tell her. Soon in fact.” “Luis, know this, Whatever you and Sheridan decide, I am behind you always. I know I was against this relationship at the start, but I can not stand in the way of such a true love. I believe now that you and Sheridan are meant to be together. Fate you may call it. Just don’t tell Theresa I said that. Anyway, I just want you to make Sheridan happy, anyway you know how, as I know she will make you happy.” Pilar kissed a stunned Luis on the cheek. “Now, get some sleep and make sure Sheridan sleeps well. She is very prone to nightmares and I fear they may return after this ordeal.”
“I will Mama. Goodnight.” Luis kissed Pilar and returned to his bedroom. He found Sheridan sitting up in bed looking through his old yearbook from high school. “Did you find anything interesting?” He asked with a sheepish grin. “Pilar must have been so proud of you, Luis,” Sheridan said. “I remember Hank telling me about all your accomplishments, but I guess I never fully understood.” “Yeah, well, that was a long time ago Sheridan,” he said gently taking the yearbook from her and placing it back in the bookcase. “From now on, I don’t want to think about the past. Only the future. Now scoot over!” Luis gave her a playful grin.
Sheridan moved over and Luis climbed in next to her, turning off the light as he did this. He then wrapped his arms around her and asked, “How’s this?” “Sheridan snuggled as close to him as she could, wrapping her arms around him as well. “Perfect. I wouldn’t mind spending the rest of my life right here,” she whispered sleepily. Luis pulled her closer and smiled. “Me too.” He gently kissed her forehead. Sheridan sighed, but was too tired to say anymore. She fell into a peaceful sleep within a minute. Luis watched her sleep for a few minutes, but he too was very tired. He soon followed Sheridan into a deep slumber. Sheridan and Luis slept in each other’s arms, smiles on their faces. Pilar walked by a short while later, saw them sleeping peacefully and smiled to herself. She noticed the two mugs of untouched hot chocolate on the nightstand and picked them up. She quietly closed the door and brought the mugs to the kitchen. She then checked on her other two children and went to bed.
To Be Continued…
