The Secrets We Hold, Shall Keep Us Together

Chapter 1:

It was a cool, and beautiful day in Harmony. Sheridan had just woken up, and she was standing, in her victorian robe, looking out to the lushious green of her garden, in deep thought, while luis lay on the couch in the living room. They were both thinking back at the events that took place days and weeks before. He was assigned to protect her, however, they had their own secrets. Living together, at some moments have been strained , but there were times when each felt, that if they were only honest about their feelings, it could turn out to be a permanent arrangement. Sheridan thought, 'I have never felt like this about anyone before. When we kiss, or even just his touch, stirs feelings in me, i've never experienced before.

Does he feel the same way about me? No matter what happened in the past, if he really loves me, the way i feel for him, i'll never let him go." Then back in the living room, luis thought,'What is it about her. Why does she have this effect on me like she does. And she is so beautiful. She drives me crazy sometimes, but the times we're together, i won't trade them for anything. I know i told her that when my job guarding her is over, that i will put my focus on finding out what happened to papa, and that if her family were involved, i will make sure each of the cranes will pay dearly... but.... her, i can't let anything happen to her.

I mean, i know i have accused her of being just like her family, but despite her unbelievable, annoying ways, she is really a nice person. She is different from them. She's...." just then, there was a knock on the door, and sheridan left her room to meet luis in the living room, who went to open the door.

There stood, Hal Freeman, the FBI agent, who awhile before, informed Sheridan and Luis, that Luis , had been assigned as her bodyguard, since they realised that Sheridan may be in danger of a hired hitman sent by the drug lords whom sheridan's ex boyfriend, Jean Luc, was dealing with, and who was murdered by them and whom sheridan can identify for the murder. Sheridan and Luis, invited, Hal Freeman, in and after offering a drink, and they all sat down, Hal said, "Okay you too, let me get down to what i have to tell you.

I know, that since you too have been living together, and even before, you have been through alot, and we know that roger and Pierre, are'nt going to stop, until, Miss Crane is dead, that's why, the FBI, has devised another plan. Now i know the two of you had your issues, but the FBI, is more concerned about Miss Crane's safety as well as yours, and to make your work officer, a little bit easier, and even so easier for these guys to get caught." Luis then said, "So what are you saying?" Hal Freeman replied, "Not only will you and Miss Crane, be living together, and you protecting her 24/7 but, to make it more convincing, or should i say making these guys believe that from what i'm about to tell you, that when they think it is real, they would believe that luis has let his guard down and think it easier to get to you, and we just want to get these guys, and then afterwards you two can resume your lives like before, however it was."

Sheridan then said, "That's uhh, great, but what is it we have to do?" Hal said, "the FBI is going to put you in sort of an undercover lifestyle, which will require you to present yourself as a married couple." Sheridan exclaimed, "Excuse me! I really don't understand, how us presenting our self as a married couple will protect me more than now and how will this make Roger and Pierre want to come after me, so that you can catch them." Hal said, "Well, have you ever seen, the television show, P.S. I Love You?

Well, it's just like that, listen, this has been done before, and it has worked, you are going to put on the most convincing marriage of all time, Roger and Pierre, are going to believe that because you and luis are married, that luis will be more thinking about him and you, and building your happy life together, instead of keeping the closest, minute by minute eye on you. If luis just lives with you, they would know, that it is just to guard you, and even with those attempts on your life, guarding you was not enough, we have to take drastic measures now, because they can use anyone you know, or don't know to do the job. Now the FBI doesn't really care what you do behind closed doors, once the job is done and the obligation is fullfilled."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 2:

Sheridan said, "Listen, i agree that luis will live with me as my bodyguard, and luis and i do get along better, but marriage." Hal replied, "Miss Crane, you needn't worry, Officer Lopez Fitzgerald's family will know that it is not a real union. You will have to sign papersto get a marriage certificate, however, you will not be fully married unless a judge, or priest or minister, signs in agreement for the union. You are going to put on a very convincing wedding, however, when it comes to a priest or judge, you will have to find someone, no one knows to do it, if you can't get someone, we'll have to assign someone to do it.

The only reason we prefer for you to do it, is because these guys are clever, and it seems they have connections everywhere, now if they learn that the FBI assigned someone to pose as a priest for the wedding, they will realise that this is a setup. Now, Miss Crane, your family must not know the truth behind the marriage, they are well known through the world, one slip, and everything will be a loss." Sheridan then replied, "Tell me this is just a dream," Hal said, "I wish it were that simple, Miss Crane. I suggest, officer, that you get in touch with your family and let them know what is going on, but just your family.....Now the wedding has been set to take place in one weeks time.

Everything you need, to put on the most convincing wedding, will be provided. The reception has already been arranged and will be held at the seascape restaurant, so by the end of the evening, till we have our hands on Roger and Pierre, you two are husband and wife. For the wedding and there after I want when you two are in public, to portray the loving husband and wife, smile with your pearly whites in clear vision especially when you are asked to take photographs, and i only want you to take these photographs from someone you know, the best person is officer bennett, no one else, but he will believe that you two are really married.

Now Miss Crane, I understand that your family have a problem with you and the officer, having anything together, but i hope that you will go to all lengths to convince them that marrying luis is something you both want. Anyway i have to get going, but i'll be back later, so you two, know what you have to do." He looked from a shocked sheridan to luis and then he left. Luis then went over to the phone to invite his family over.

Within an hour, Pilar, Miguel and Theresa, were informed of the situation, and then all was silent. Then Pilar said, "But, Sheridan, how is your family going to accept this, without knowing the truth. How are they going to react hearing that you are going to marry my son." Sheridan replied, "I don't know, i mean i don't have to worry about ethan or ivy but father and julian." Pilar then sighed, "Well, i guess if this is what the FBI wants, there is nothing that anyone can do about it." Luis then said, "Well i guess we'll better get sheridan's family over here and get this over with."

Theresa smirked and said, "Well firstly, they can't come to greet the happy couple without sheridan having an engagement ring. Sheridan, do you by chance have a ring no one has ever seen before? "Sheridan replied, "Yes, i do" Theresa then said, "Good, put it on," Sheridan did just that and after calling over to the main house, andthere was a knock on the cottage door, theresa said, "Okay guys, showtime, and please, i need you all to be covincing, remember what agent freeman said, i want you to do this so well that i must even be convinced."

Theresa went to open the door, and she was followed in by Ivy, Ethan and Julian. Then Ivy said, "So, sheridan, how could we help you dear." Ethan also added, "Yes, what is this gathering all about," and Julian also said, "Sheridan, please don't keep uswaiting, you disturbed me from an important phone call." Sheridan stole a quick glance from theresa to luis and then with a smile on her face, she waved her handto display the ring." Ivy then said, "Oh my gosh, sheridan is this true." sheridan nodded, and Julian said, "What's going on?" and Ivy replied, "You can't be that stupid and shallow julian, sheridan and luis are getting married."

Julian replied, "What? I don't believe this, how could this happen." Luis replied, "simple julian, i.. i .. love sheridan and i want to marry her. I have told sheridan, times and times before, that if i met a girl, that i believed was the one for me, no matter how long i've known her, that i'll marry her , and your sister turned out to be that girl." Julian then said, "My god sheridan, have you gone mad, i mean, father won't like it." Sheridan looked at Pilar, then luis, and then replied, "Well, i don't give a damn what father wouldn't like, I'm thinking of myself for a change, so whether you like it or not, i am marrying luis."

Ivy then said, "Good for you sheridan!" julian then replied, "This is outrageous, i won't allow it," Ivy then said, "Oh, put a sock in it julian, can't you see how in love sheridan and luis are....oh i forgot, you don't know what love is or what it feels like, and besides you can't play god with someone else's love life. You can't stop luis and sheridan from getting married, i mean i know it is rather sudden, but i told you that love will find its way, and i'm glad it did," ethan then said, "Me too, i am happy just as long as my favourite aunt is happy." he hugged her and then julian said, "Pilar, you can't be happy about this." Pilar then replied, "Mr. Crane, i...i have no say in the matter. I always loved sheridan and i always will, and i know that sheridan and luis had feelings for one another for a long time, so, i guess when the love bug bit, it bit hard.

Just as long as they are happy." then julian replied, "Well you are not much help." Then miguel said, "Mr. Crane, love cannot be measured, or destroyed, when it comes to matters of the heart. Nothing could ever destroy a love between two people, not even death, when two people are meant to be together, it remains like that always." julian then replied, "Well...um.. i have to go, i have something to take care of, so i'll see you later."

Julian then left. Ethan then excused himself and hugged sheridan before he left. Ivy left shortly after, however theresa stopped her outside. Ivy then said, quietly, "Theresa, something a little strange is going on. I mean, don't get me wrong, i can see sheridan and luis love each other, and in the past they had problems admitting it, but marriage, it is so quick." Theresa then smiled and said, "Mrs. Crane, if i tell you something, do you promise not to say a word to anyone? cause i really need your help."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 3:

Ivy replied, "Of course theresa, i promise, i won't say anything, what is it?" Theresa began to tell ivy about the FBI newest plan, and the reasons behind the so called marriage. Then ivy said, "Well, i can say they sure fooled me, but no good actor or actress could put on a show like that, i mean theresa, that whether they were just acting to love one another, and wanting to get married, i think that they truly do love each other and they are still afraid to admit it, and that kind of love should not be thrown away; i wish there was something we could do to help them realise their feelings." Theresa then replied, "Mrs. Crane, i think to each of them, they know that they love the other, but i think they need a little push. The whole marriage plan of the FBI is fate, it is not just a coincidence."

Ivy then said, "Well, i agree with you, but how could i help you." Theresa, then said, "Well, the FBI told sheridan and luis that our family was incharge of finding someone, no one knows, to act as the priest, so i was wondering if you'd be able, to get someone, and not someone to act as the priest, but, a real priest." Ivy then said, "What are you thinking theresa? What is going on in that creative and clever mind of yours." and theresa answered, "Well, luis and sheridan will be pretending to be a married couple, with everyone thinking they are really a married couple, with sheridan and luis unbeknowst to them that they really are, for awhile."

Ivy then replied, "Oooh, i love what you're thinking, but what do you hope to accomplish by this plan?" and theresa replied, "Mrs. Crane, we don't know how long the FBI takes to catch these guys, and with sheridan and luis living together, you could see it in their eyes that certain feelings have been stirred up. I mean, there was this day, not too long ago, that i came to see mama here, and luis saw me, he told me he wanted to go and collect a few things and asked me to stay with sheridan, this was after the prom, anyway, for one, i was surprised he didn't blow up at me, for being here in the first place like he normally does, and then asking me to stay with sheridan for awhile, hmm, anyway, when i was with sheridan, she started to talk about luis, she didn't tell me what broke them up in the first place, but she spoke more about luis, and how on occassions they had some unusual moments, with her always ending up running into luis, either in the shower, or even his sense of bad timing before she leaves the room for him to dress, then while she was sunbathing on the patio, she fell asleep, and at the same time, he heard what sounded like bullets being fired, so when he went to her, he thought she was shot.

He went to check to see if there were any bullet wounds, and her bikini top ended up falling off. Anyway, she woke up and that's when he realised she was still alive and only sleeping. She said after that they had some interesting conversations... She said, one of the most memorable times was when she and he shared the kitchen preparing their own dinner, and she said that the conversation they had was touching. Mrs. Crane, despite luis's antics about how he hates the cranes, i know he loves sheridan, and you should have seen the look in sheridan's eyes when she spoke of him. I can tell she loves him too, and the more they live together, the more their feelings will grow, and intensify, and then soon, they won't be able to help themselves.

My brother was one to always believe in getting married and then raising a family, but if their feelings continue to intensify, and he and sheridan do... you know.. then she might get pregnant, there is always that chance, and he will feel that he did not fullfill his vow to get married and then have a family, and by then, he will learn the truth if not before. Inside of me, i know what we want to do is the right thing." Ivy smiled at her and said, "Theresa, i will help you with your plan because i think that sheridan and luis deserve to be together, and for another, knowing that sheridan and luis are married, will drive julian and alistair crazy.

And the thing is, with their knowledge of luis being sheridan's bodyguard, and luis working with the FBI to protect her, alistair is one to be very suspicious, and he will use his connections to see if the FBI had anything to do with the marriage, and if they do, bet your bottom dollar that alistair will will stop at nothing to expose both the FBI as well as the plan, which could put your brother and sheridan in danger, so we'll be doing this to protect them from alistair also. You know, there is this one person i know, he is a novice in the priesthood in Rome. He is young, and new, so no one will really know him. I met him, last year, when i went there on a business trip.

I met him in the hotel, it was his first weddding ceremony that he was going to do, and i ran into him there, he'll be perfect. I will get in touch with him, and let him know of the situation, and i'll keep in touch with you. Now we have a week before the wedding, so we have alot of work to do before then but in two days time i want you to tell luis you got someone. Tell him an old friend of yours, brother, someone who lives in California, and whom you found out was moving here to live." Theresa then said, "Oh thank you, Mrs. Crane." Ivy then replied, "Oh, that's alright theresa, i think this will be alot of fun, anyway i have to go to the hospital for a board meeting so i'll see you, okay, bye." Thersa said her goodbyes and went back inside the cottage.

Back inside, Sheridan said, "Well, i guess it is time for the rest of harmony to know, so we'll better get going. Pilar, we'll see you later." Sheridan got up, with luis closely behind her and hugged her and then Theresa said, "Mama, i'm going with sheridan and luis, i have got to see everyone's expressions on this, i am not going tomiss this for the world." Theresa and sheridan and luis left shortly after with pilar and miguel watching them go.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 4:

Before stepping out of the car, theresa said, "Okay guys, remember, your a happy, engaged couple," and luis replied, "For the tenth time, you needn't remind us theresa," and theresa said, "Good, now let's go." They then headed towards the book cafe. Once inside, sheridan and luis went over to the counter and theresa went over to where whitney was sitting and whitney said, "Hey you're in a happy mood, what is going on . What are you up to this time theresa." theresa smiled and said, "It is not me, it is fate, two lovers who deserve to be together are finally going to be." and whitney replied, "Theresa, what are you talking about.

You know what, don't tell me, when you start to talk about fate, and lovers being together, i know what you are up to. Remember what your mom and luis said, no lopez fitzgerald will ever marry any crane, and you know how your brother feels about them, especially sheridan, the only reason they are here together is because he is her bodyguard, nothing more, and if he finds out about you planning to get ethan, he'll........" theresa interrupted, "Oh whitney, i am not talking about me and ethan, and as i said before, it was fate." and whitney said, "then if your not talking about you and ethan, who are you talking about because i know it is definately not about me and chad," theresa replied, "No silly, even though that needs a push, what i am talking about is going to blow your mind away, anyway, wait and see."

Then hank walked in followed by beth and chad, and hank said, "Hey, luis, sheridan, you're here, together, oh i forgot, you're her body guard, well i do envy you, getting paid to guard such a...fabulous, beautiful body is a privaledge, if i was a cop i would do it for free." Sheridan laughed, "Oh, hank, you are so funny, that is sweet, but..." luis interrupted and said, "Yes hank, it is, but, even later on down the road, you wouldn't even get that chance, even if you were a cop."

Hank said, "What do you mean?" Luis raised sheridan's hand to expose the ring, and chad and whitney as well as the bennett children and simone who were also there and saw the ring, and were drinking there iced coffees, dropped their mugs on their table in a thug, and whitney said, "i don't believe this, theresa, what did you do." and sheridan said, "she didn't do anything whitney, it was just something luis and i thought we should do." hank said, "Should do, wasn't having and being a bodyguard enough, oh, i guess you want to guard her body every minute, every inch huh. i guess you two lied to me when you told me, you didn't care about each other, i knew it, especially after i saw that kiss in boston, and tina told me how in love you were, i can't believe i let you make a fool out of me, luis you knew i was interested in sheridan, how could you do this to me, ruin my dreams."

Sheridan then said, "Hank, i thought i told you that i wanted us just to be friends and i am sorry you got hurt when you saw that kiss, but back then luis and i did'nt know, we were.......we were in love, and i am sorry i led you on, i didn't mean to." and hank replied, "you did more than that," and then stampered out of the book cafe with luis saying, "hank..." and beth saying, "let him go, you wouldn't be much help to him." and beth then left to go after hank. Chad then said, "hey man, don't worry, he'll get over it, but, congrats, i knew something was going down with you two. It's about time you two hooked up, i knew you loved each other, just by that tango you did months ago, man, it said it for me."

Theresa then flew over and stuck her head in between sheridan ands luis and said "it must have chad, can't you see how in love they are mmm. anyway, chad, could you get us four cuppaccinos, one for sheridan, one for luis, one for whitney and one for me, oh and put extra whipped cream on mine, i feel like i'm in a sweet mood today. i am treating today." Chad said, 'Hey, no prob," He smiled and watching them go toward a table that whitney was at. Whitney said, "Congratulations, luis, sheridan, i guess theresa was right for once, it was fate. so have you set a date yet?" Theresa answered first and said, "One week from today." Chad then brought over their drinks and whitney continued, "a week, wow, isn't that kind of soon, for a wedding?"

Theresa then said sarcastically, "Not if you are totally and completely in love like these two, and looking forward to make love as husband and wife, lying in the arms of the man you love, after a night of heated passion, stealing little kisses every now and again, just lying there, holding hands, together lying in the bliss of the moment and then making love all over again with no care in the world, but just the two of you, sweet talk, and not necessarily verbal, boy that is heaven," Then luis and sheridan, shocked, looked at each other, embarressed and whitney said, "Theresa! What goes through your head is unbelievabl , why don't you think of something more profitable and more educational, than sheridan and luis's sex life" and theresa added, "What can be more fasinating, more profitable and more educational than that."

Whitney replied, "Theresa, come on, it is not to say that, there are any surprises for them, i mean two good looking adults living together, with the chemistry and sexual attraction that is obviously there, what happens behind close doors, we can only imagine." Theresa and Whitney burst out in laughter and luis said, "Sheridan, these CHILDREN need help, their mental functioning skills are working overtime, i think we better go, i want to stop off at the station first, but guys, spread the word so we don't have the work to do."

And theresa said, "yes officer" then as sheridan and luis began to leave, theresa, whitney, chad, the bennett kids, simone and reese said with kissing sounds, "oh, sheridan, luis, we have something for you," sheridan and luis turned to face them for a moment, and the kids singing," Cinderella said to Snow White..' How does love get so up close, oh, all i wanted was a white knight, with a good heart, soft touch, that all, ride me off in the sunset.

Baby i'm forever yours , it's the way you love me, It's a feeling like this, it's sentrivigal motion, it's perpetual bliss, it's that pivotal moment, it's uh, unthinkable, this kiss, this kiss, unsinkable, this kiss. You can kiss me in the moonlight, or the roof top under the sky, oh, you can kiss me, with the windows open, while the rain comes pouring inside oh, kiss me in sleep slow motion, let's let everything slide, you've got me floating, you've got me flying.

It's the way you love me, it's the feeling like this, it's sentrivigal motion, it's perpetual bliss, it's that pivotal moment, it's uh, so criminal, this kiss, this kiss, it's criminal, this kiss, this kiss, it's the way you love, me baby, it's the way you love me darling, it's the way you love me, it's a feeling like this, it's sentrivigal motion, it's perpetual bliss , it's that pivotal moment, it's uh, so criminal, this kiss, this kiss, it's criminal, it's the way you love me baby, it's the way you love me darling, yeh,"

They all danced around with sheridan and luis looking at them, and then Charity said, "Hey we want to see a kiss," and theresa says, "yes, come on you two, just one, i am sure you've had practice." sheridan looked at luis and luis said, "You'll see it at the wedding okay, so wait till then and anyway, we've got to go." and everyone said, "Bye..." and sheridan and luis left, with theresa and whitney not too far behind with theresa saying, "Let's go home, we have a wedding to plan," and then they left.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 5:

AT THE STATION

Luis and sheridan walked into the station, and sam came over "Luis, Sheridan, what are you doing here? Oh, by the way, is something going in that i don't know, i just came from home, and i saw the kids with smiles on their faces and dancing around, saying 'it's finally happened, it's finally happened.' Do you know anything about it?" Luis looked at sheridan for awhile, and she glanced back, at him and everyone turned to look at luis and he said, "Alright guys, i guess you will all find out sooner or later, but,...sheridan and i.... are getting married." everyone exclaimed, "What!" and sam looked back at the others, and then back at luis and sheridan and said, "Sheridan, luis, how did this happen, i mean, you too claimed not too long ago, that you couldn't stand being in the same room, i know you said things were fine as well, but marriage?"

luis replied, "Sam, sheridan and i decided that it may be the only way we'll even see eye to eye with each other, and we decided we'll never be able to be good for anyone else but each other, so....." One of luis friends came forward, and said, "Hey, congrats luis, I must say, you got yourself one gorgeous girl, from that day you two came in the pool hall, i knew you too were made for each other, the chemistry was definately there, we all saw it, even when you two fell out here at the station, it was so clear. Hey luis, she may stink at pool, but she knows how to play a mean game of darts. I guess she'll be great at everything else but pool, especially in bed too, uh?" and luis replied, "Well if she is, i still wouldn't tell you.

Anyway we just wanted you guys to know, the wedding is next saturday, so you'll get your invitations soon, theresa is seeing about that. So Sam, i'll see you later." and sam replied, "Sure luis, but sheridan, luis, remember what i said, be careful, for one, those hitmen are still out there, and two, julian and alistair, aren't going to let you two marry without a fight."

And luis replied, "Don't worry sam, we will." and then taking sheridan by the arm, luis led her to the car. As they drove off to head to the cottage sheridan said, "I can't believe we pulled it off, the FBI will be proud of us, i even fooled myself for awhile and got in the spirit, i guess it is the first time being engaged, and getting married, even though in reality this is all a charade" Sheridan looked at luis and he looked back at her, and then they smiled at each other , forgetting the reality of the situation.

AT THE STUDY OF THE MANSION.

"Julian, this has definately gone far enough. Get your sister to see sense. We can't let this wedding happen. If luis gets too close, that's it for us. And with sheridan being in love with him, she'll help him in anything, Julian, we can't let this happen, get to it as soon as possible." And julian said, "Yes father." and then he hung up the phone and went up to his room.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 6:

Moments later, sheridan and luis were walking up the path to sheridan's cottage door, luis taking the key to unlock it, when julian came over to them and said, "Um, sheridan, dear, may i speak to you for a moment alone." sheridan looked at luis, smiled and said, "Don't worry luis, we'll go on the patio, i'll be fine." luis replied, "alright, but keep your eye open sheridan, if you even hear the slightest thing, i want you to come inside and tell me." sheridan nodded and then led julian to the patio, where she stood facing him with her arms crossed in front of her. She said, "What is it julian, i don't have whole day.

I have a wedding to plan." julian replied, "That's exactly what i want to talk about sheridan. What in the world were you thinking about in agreeing to marry luis? What happened to his using you? Why do you want to hurt yourself again, because that is all you'll get out of it. What happens when luis does not want you anymore and leaves you with a brood of kids to raise just like martin did to poor pilar? Do you want to be left with a bundle of babies, and nothing else?" Sheridan eyes filled with tears and she replied, "How dare you? Okay so what if he hurts me, so what if he leaves, at least i will have something that is part his, so what if i am left with his children, at least it will be his children, from a man who has saved my life over and over again. At least it will be a way to thank him.

No matter how he feels towards our family, it is important to him to have his own and if i could give him that, at least i won't throw away my life, like i would if i married someone you and father want me to. Those guys whom after a year of marriage would treat you like a sex slave, whom will have their bimbos on the side, those who will get pot bellies after a couple more years, and who will make me give birth to the most ungreatful, selfish, despicable replicas of themselves. I am not letting you make me marry someone that i don't give a damn about, and who doesn't care too hoots about me, not like what father did to poor ivy, sticking her with you. When i marry, i am marrying for love, not money or because of the social aspects of the whole thing. So you could go back and tell father that you two are just wasting your time.

I am going to marry luis whether you like it or not." Julian, stomped out of the patio, leaving sheridan crying on her sun bed. Luis heard the light whimper and came out and saw sheridan wiping the tears away, and luis came forward, stooped in front of her, taking her hands from her face and said, "Sheridan what did julian say to you." she replied, "Nothing, don't worry, i dealt with him, you know i could take care of myself when it comes to my father and julian, anyway i am pretty tired, i think i'll have an early night. I'll have some tea first and then i'll go in, can i make a cup for you too." luis smiled and replied, "Yes, i would love one, thanks." Sheridan smiled back and both went back inside the cottage together.

The days were going so fast. Sheridan, and theresa went shopping for the wedding dress just a couple days before the wedding. A couple days as well, theresa spent with whitney and their friends decorating the church and the seascape restaurant for the wedding. Ivy got in touch with the priest using theresa's cell phone so that the call couldn't be traced and even luis and sheridan believed theresa's story when she told them that she got a friend of hers brother who was coming to harmony to live, to act as the priest. Hank was neither seen norheard of for the entire week, and sheridan and luis did their most excellant acting like the engaged couple infront of the eyes of harmony.

To all the functions that were held in their honour, they put on their greatest performance, exchanging romantic glances, smiles, teasing each other, holding hands, the tiny kisses they were constantly encouraged to demonstrate, dancing as close as ever, their bodies touching that were separated by the layer of clothing that each had on. But know matter how much in their minds they were just acting for the benefit of the people around them, in their hearts, their feelings developed even stronger. And when it is just the two of them they seem to run away from the truth, their obvious love and attraction and passion for each other.

It was hard being in the same room together, just the two of them, and not able to express their feelings the way they can through their acting in frontof the many people. Excuses were made, almost every moment they were left alone together, whether it isto prepare dinner, or mix acouple drinks, or to go to bed, it was always the same excuses, so as not to generate their true feelings for each other.

Harmony was truly bustling with all the preparations, and though on occasions julian still tried to convince sheridan not to go through with the wedding, she still stood up for herself and disregarded anything that julian told her. The wedding was still going to happen and thanks to theresa and ivy the invitations were distributed, and everything was ready for the wedding in a days time.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 7:

WEDDING DAY

At the cottage, Agent Freeman, kept watch on sheridan at the cottage, while she prepared for the wedding, while luis was back at his home getting ready... theresa went in to see sheridan who was standing in front of the mirror and said, "Sheridan, you look beautiful, i mean it." Sheridan smiled at her and said, "Thank you theresa, and i have to thank you for helping me with the dress, i mean, you still gave me the support in looking good for the wedding and present myself as the blushing bride even though it's not a totally real wedding." Theresa smiled back at her and with eyes filled with tears, sheridan continued, "You know, i have waited a long time, to get married, only today, it is not a real wedding, and it's not going to be a real marriage."

Theresa then said, "Sheridan, you know according to Agent Freeman, this is the best thing, these guys know what they are doing. And besides, who's to say that this marriage isn't going to be a real one, it's up to you to make it real. I know you would say that you don't love luis, but that is what your lips say, not your heart." Sheridan replied, "Theresa, even if you're right, this marriage is a fake, the FBI arranged it, and you arranged for your friends brother from out of town to act as the priest.

And besides, how are you sure, that i care about luis like that, and he cares about me the same. This is just a business arrangement, that's all." Theresa replied, "Whatever you say sheridan, just remember, i know love when i see it, and i have a feeling that after tonight, your entire idea about love when it comes to you and luis will change. Anyway we better get going. Mike is driving us." Sheridan replied, "Alright, let's go there, and get this over with. Even though it is not a real wedding and i know that, i am still getting wedding jitters." theresa laughed as sheridan and her got in the limo that was driven by mike and Agent freeman sat in front with him.

AT ST. MARGARET MARY'S CHURCH

The limo pulled up in front of the church and ivy and theresa helped sheridan out of the car, with Agent Freeman and Mike close behind. Then ivy and theresa excused themselves and ivy said, "Theresa, Father Joseph is ready. I explained everything to him again. Boy for a priest, he loves this devious plan. "Luis is talking with him now and he seems to be doing very well." Theresa replied, "Thank God, hmm i am not the one getting married, but i am so nervous. Anyway we better go. I can see sheridan is getting nervous. I tried to get her to admit how much she loves luis, but no go, and it is so obvious. Well, with what happens tonight, it will change their lives forever."

Then theresa and ivy strolled back to sheridan and within minutes Julian was at sheridan's side and said, "You know sheridan, it is not too late to reconsider this. Father is not too happy and you wouldn't be either, if you marry luis. Do you really think that he wants to marry you? Come on sheridan." Ivy then said, "Julian, how dare you...Luis does love sheridan, there is no questioning that. You think that sheridan would marry him if she didn't know that he loved her. They aren't like us julian. They know what love is. And how dare you tell her these things just moments before she gets married."

Ivy walked in front of sheridan and said, "Don't listen to your brother. You and luis deserve each other. Anyway, put a smile on that beautiful face. Today is your day." Sheridan thought to herself 'would luis have wanted to marry you anyway if it was not for the FBI. Could he love me?' The music began and the door was opened. Ethan took sherida's arm in his, and theresa took her place in front to lead the wedding march. Then as Sheridan stepped inside the fragrance of the many flowers that enhanced the inside of the church filled sheridan with something, so unexplainable, so magical. She looked across to where luis was waiting for her.

Their eyes met, and the aura that washed over them, the magic, they shared, that they still kept secret, carried on a fairy tale journey, that only the two of them could understand. Luis was captivated by thesight he saw. Sheriden glided along the carpet of the isle, in the beautiful Chenard design halter wedding dress, with the neckline, set low across her upper chest to accentuate her bust line, and revealing with the halter, her beautifully tanned back, and then from the waist of the dress, drapped smoothly, the skirt that glided along the floor, that was softly wide rounded in front, that was given to cut and tailor, to a point in the back that trailed along, that was enhanced by the train, of the veil set atop her head supported by the crown, that nestled in the comfort of her beautiful blonde hair which accentuated the style of her hair.

And her makeup, simply perfect. The vision he saw was breathtaking and luis was not the only one who noticed. The responce coming from the congregation said it all and sam whispered, "Luis, i am so glad you resolved your problems with sheridan, because i think if you let her get away to another man you would have regretted it, you sure did know what you were doing when you decided to marry her." Luis said, "She sure is beautiful." The music and the words of the song, set the mood as sheridan approached luis.

I'm Your Angel
By: R. Kelly and Celine Dion

(Dion)
No mountain to high for you to climb
All you have to do, is have some kind of faith
No river too wide, to make, it across
All you have to do is believe when you pray.

(Kelly)
And then you will see the morning will come in,
Everyday will be bright as the sun,
Hold on to your fears,
Cast them on me,
I just want you to see.

(Together)
I'll be your cloud up in the sky,
I'll be your shoulder when you cry,
I hear your voices when you call me,
I am your angel,
Andall hope gone, I'm here
No matter how far you are,
I'm near. It makes no difference who you are
I am your angel, I am your angel

(Kelly)
I saw your teardrops and i heard you cry
All you need is time, seek me and you shall find,
You have eveything and you're still lonely
It don't have to be this way,
Let me show you a better day

(Dion)
Then you will see, the morning will come,
And all your day will be bright as the sun,
So all your fears just cast them on me
How can i make you see

(Kelly)
And when it's time to face the storm

(Dion)
I'll be right by your side

(Kelly)
Grace will keep us safe and warm
I know we will survive

(Dion)
And when it seems as if your end this growing year
Don't give up the fight
Just put trust on the sky.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 8:

Ivy whispered to Julian, "look at them julian, Look at how they love each other. You nor alistair can separate that." julian looked on in disgust, as luis took sheridan's hand from ethan and they approached the priest together. The FBI kept close watch at everyone in the church, and ensured that the windows and doors were securely closed, so as not to leave sheridan exposed to danger.

Within minutes, the priest joined their hands and they recited the vows, and then the giving and exchanging of rings, they were pronounced husband and wife. Then when their lips met for the kiss, cheers came from the congregation and sheridan and luis seemed to forget that the kiss was really for the benefit of their on lookers, that their kiss became more passionate by the moment. Theresa thought to herself "They do love each other, that kiss was very real. Before tonight is through, i am going to make sure that whatever broke them apart, is revealed, i am going to make sure that before they leave to go back to the cottage, they realise how much they do love each other, because tonight, they will consumate their marriage."

Theresa smiled happily and ivy said, "I saw that smile theresa, and i know how you feel, sheridan and luis may not know it now, but they are really married" and theresa replied, "Yes, and before the night is through, they will make this marriage a reality, because tonight, i am going to make sure that luis and sheridan realise how much they love each other, and how much they need each other, and then, that will lead to them making love." ivy then replied "Theresa, what are you planning." theresa replied, "Well i have arranged with chad to dedicate a couple of songs to them, not only the first dance song, but i have a couple surprises for them, you see, my brother and sheridan may not seem to be huge fans of music except latin music, but i have found some songs that seem to be written for them, and i am sure when they hear them, they'll know."

Ivy then said "Ooooh, i love your idea, i know that sheridan and luis do take the lyrics from songs to heart, i think it just might work. I just think we have appointed ourselves cupids helpers. Well let's get going. Sheridan and luis will be leaving for the reception soon." Just then, sheridan and luis began to walk down the isle, and sheridan cringed close to luis and dropped her head in fear, and luis said, "Sheridan, are you okay?" and sheridan replied, "I am not sure, i guess with all the security around, it just reminded me, how much my life is in danger." Luis replied, "Don't worry, i promise no harm will come to you when i am here to protect you." Sheridan smiled at him and then the security led them outside the church and into the limo to take them to the seascape.

AT THE SEASCAPE

Everyone gathered at the seascape and they all sat at the table, that was assigned to them by placecards. Luis and sheridan were invited to dance, and theresa whispered, "Showtime guys." Luis dropped his napkin, and took sheridan's hand and led her on the dance floor. As luis held her close and their bodies moved to the music of Christina Aguilera.

I Turn To You

When i'm lost in the rain, in your eyes i know
I'll find the light, to light my way
When i'm scared , losing ground
When my world is going crazy
You can turn it all around
And when i'm down, you're there pushing me to the top.
You're always there giving me all you got.

For a shield from the storm, for a friend for a love,
To keep me safe and warm,
I turn to you
For the strength to be strong,
For the will to carry on,
For everything you do
For everything that's true
I turn to you.

When i lose the will to win, i just reach for you, and
i can reach the sky again
I can do anything, cause you're love is so amazing
Cause you're love inspires me
And when i need a friend
You're always on my side
Giving me faith
That gets me through the night.

For a shield from the storm, for a friend, for a love
To keep me safe and warm
I turn to you
For the strength to be strong
For the will to carry on
For everything you do,
For everything that's true
I turn to you.

For the arms, to be shelter
Through all the rain,
For truth that will never change
For someone to lean on
For a heart i can rely on
Through anything
For the one who
I can run too
I turn to you.

For a shield from the storm, for a friend, for a love
To keep me safe and warm
I turn to you
For the strength to be strong
For the will carry on
For everything you do, For everything that's true
I turn to you.

Their eyes met, and searched each others. Sheridan's eyes filled with tears and she bent her head to hide the emotions, that seemed to be pouring out. When the song was almost finished, sheridan's emotion, flooded over and she distanced herself from luis and ran through the door, towards the private lounge, forgetting her need to be guarded. Luis' eyes filled with tears just then, and he then ran after her.

In the private lounge, luis opened the door, and saw sheridan weeping only saying, "How could he do this to me? How could he make me fall in love with him, and then say he is going to use me? I thought he cared for me, i really thought we could have a future together, how could he do it, and now i have to pretend to love him, when i really do love him." Luis then went over to where she was sitting with her back facing him, wiping her tears, and he placed his hand on her shoulder, which made her jump and he whispered, "Sheridan, what did i do, to make you think i didn't care for you.

Who said that i only said that to use you?" Sheridan turned to face him, and said, "Luis, how long have you been there. What did you hear." Luis, with his eyes filled with tears, said, "Everything, sheridan you know i would never use you. Tell me, what did you hear. Please tell me what happened to us." Sheridan looked at him with sadness in her eyes and said, "You really don't know, do you?" He shook his head and she then took a deep breath and began to tell him, what she saw on the warf, later that night, when she went in search for him. Luis then said, "Sheridan, that was not me." Sheridan then replied, "Luis, if that was not you then who was it? Luis, i saw you, i heard you."

luis replied, "Sheridan, that was not me. After i spoke to you on the phone, i went home, took a shower, and then mama asked me to take her somewhere before i had to go back on patrol." Then sheridan said, "So what are you saying that you have a twin somewhere, a double." Luis replied, "I don't know, do i?" sheridan got up and thought for a few moments then said, "My god, luis, i was just reminded about your father, remember, pilar insisted that, man the one who died, that he was not martin , and you found out your mother was right, and you believed my family had something to do with it.

Luis, do you think, that my family was behind this, since you have a good aliby then it couldn't be you, and father and julian was always so insistant in keeping us apart, but why." Then a voice interrupted, "Many reasons sheridan," both sheridan and luis turned to see ivy watching them, and sheridan said, "What did you say." and ivy said, "I think it is time you two learn the truth to what happened between you. You see, julian and alistair, have their ideas about marriage and what is ideal and not.

They were always so focused in keeping the crane family's blood 'rich' as they would say, they were afraid for one, that with you and luis getting romantically involved, that it will get much more serious, which will lead to marriage, and then, building your family, alistair wants to keep the riches and wealth in the family, that is why they were always so hell bent on sheridan marrying from the social circle. When they saw that you and sheridan had something going on, they were afraid that the social would be broken, of course, i don't believe in sacrificing love for power and money, but when i was forced to marry julian, i was very young, and very immature, i did what i was told to do, so my parents nor alistair feared me going against the family's beliefs, but sheridan is older and ver independant minded, she does not care about money, power, social circle, anything like that, she was different than anyone in the family, and believed in marrying for love.

That is what frightened them, and another, they are afraid that if you and luis do marry, and raise a family, that luis will have access to anything that might hurt their precious reputation. Yes, they hired someone to impersonate luis that night. They saw your love building, and since you have come back to harmony after luis saved your life in paris, they worked to keep you two apart. I will tell you more another time, but if julian realises i'm gone he'll get suspicious, he knows that from the moment i found out what he was up to, i wanted to tell you two, because i think that sheridan deserved a chance at happiness and true love.

I know by keeping it a secret from you two i was wrong, but julian threatened me to choose either you two, or ethan 's welfare, and i made my choice, i am so sorry i allowed things to get so bad between you, that it practically cost you two because i think that you two really deserve each other, and that it is time, julian and alistair pay for what they did, i don't want to see you two fight anymore, but promise me something, don't lash back at julian and your father yet. Now that you know what drove you apart, i think you should work on building back your relationship, and that will be enough payback for them, cause i could tell you that theknowledge of this marriage is grinding them in the dust, believe me."

She walked over to sheridan and hugged her and sheridan said, "Thank you so much ivy." Ivy said, "No prob, i thought it was my duty as your sister in law, and the mother of your nephew to help in anyway, i can, anyway i better go, oh, by the way, luis, if you and sheridan, want to find out a little more about this impersonator, tomorrow julian goes on a business trip, so i'll be happy to help out.

The Cranes have destroyed my life, by forcing me to marry julian, i don't want that for sheridan, anyway, i'll leave you alone, but don't stay long, your guests are starting to worry, oh luis, as you see, not everyone named crane, is just like the other cranes, i too know what love is, just like sheridan, and so does my son," Luis replied as ivy, was walking out of the lounge, "Thank you Mrs. Crane, i guess i could admit i was wrong about all the cranes, i guess i was right about certain one." Ivy smiled back and left, with sheridan turning her back and saying softly, "I am going to make sure that they pay. They aren't getting away with this, i am going to..." and at that moment luis turned her around and pulled her in a passionate kiss.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 9:

Just outside, the lounge, Ivy met theresa and Ivy said, "Theresa, it happened, your plan worked." Theresa said, "You mean, Sheridan and luis." Ivy replied, "Mhm, see for yourself," Ivy slightly opened the lounge door and she and theresa peeked inside, and saw sheridan and luis in a loving embrace, sharing a very passionate kiss. They then closed back the door and theresa said, "Yes! Well it's time we get on to the next plan." Ivy smiled and they walked back into the dining room.

BACK IN THE LOUNGE

Luis held sheridan very close, but when they parted, sheridan said, "Luis, i don't.....I can't .... I mean, aren't you angry about what my family did? They used me to hurt you." Luis replied, "Sheridan, they hurt you too. They made you think i didn't care about you, with what they did, now i understand why you acted the way you did, but sheridan, you should know that i am not interested in anything your family has, well ... except for you." Sheridan replied, "You mean it." Luis replied, "Why do you think i came over and over again to save you. Sheridan... if anything were to happen to you i .....i mean ... remember when we were in paris, and you said something about when two people are connected that they can always tell when the other is in danger, and i said i'll feel that for anyone...

Sheridan i have never had connection like that, and then the night on the warf when you refused to get security, ... sheridan when i went home.. i felt you were in danger... and then when you went up to the mountain cabin, something kept nagging me about the coat and scarf that crystal had, and that's when i realised that it was you, you were the one in danger. Sam knew how i felt, i was so desparate to get to you, sheridan if anything happened to you, i ...and what about that night when we made dinner in the kitchen together, and i told you that one day, i want to meet someone , get married and raise a family?

Sheridan why do you think i looked at you the way i did, i told you before you left harmony that if i met someone whom i wanted to marry, it wouldn't matter how long i would have known her for, if i wanted to marry her, i will." Sheridan eyes filled with tears, and she replied, "You mean, you mean,... you love me the way i love you, the way i really love you." luis said, "What do you think?" Sheridan went to him and he held her and they kissed, then sheridan said, "And what are we going to do about my father and julian?" luis replied.

"Well, we'll deal with them another time, we don't want the secret behind the wedding coming out to jeopardize your safety" Sheridan then replied, "If i could get my hands on them. How dare they interfere with my life, how could they risk yours and my life for their own selfishness, they didn't care how hurt i'll be" luis then held her and said, "Don't worry, we will deal with them, let's just get roger and pierre out of the way." sheridan nodded and said, "um, i want to change before i go back out there, will you wait for me?" luis smiled and stepped out of the lounge for a minute, and when he returned sheridan had changed with the help of theresa, who at this moment was grinning from ear to ear.

Moments later, Sheridan and luis were in the dining room, and chad had put on one of the songs theresa requested for them, and they were invited to dance, when they heard the words, sheridan and luis looked at each other in awe and then tears developed in sheridan's eyes, and luis held her close while they danced. The song was ' Spanish Eyes ' by Back street Boys

Here we are, in the arms of one another,
And we still go on searching for each other
Knowing that hate is wrong, and love is right,
For us tonight,

When i look into your spanish eyes.
I know the reason why i am alive.
And the world is so beautiful tonight.

Here's a place i've never been
And it comes from deep within
And it's telling me, that i'm about to win first prize
Knowing all i have to do, is reach out my hand to you
Anytime i want to look in your spanish eyes

Let it be, if we're nothing more than dreamers
Who believe that we see no wall between us
How could they be in my heart, and in my mind.
When all i can find, when i look into your spanish eyes
I know the reason why i am alive
And the world is so beautiful tonight

Here's a place i've never been
And it comes from deep within
And it's telling me, that i'm about to win first prize
Knowing all i have to do, is reach out my hand to you
Anytime i want to look in your spanish eyes.

I loved you from a distance though
I could'nt reach that far
I can't believe how close that we are
When i look into your spanish eyes
And the world is so beautiful tonight.

Here's a place i've never been,
And it comes from deep within
And it's tell me, that i'm about to win first prize
Knowing alli have to do, is reach out my hand to you
Anytime i want to look in your spanish eyes.

And then came,

'Anywhere for You'

I'll go anywhere for you, anywhere you ask me to,
I'll do anything for you, anything you want me to.
I'd walk you free around the world, for just one kiss from you,
Far beyond the call of love, the sun, the stars, the moon,
As long as your loves there to meet me,
I will lose my weight beneath me.
Even through the darkest night you know.

I'll go anywhere for you, anywhere you ask me to,
I'll do anything for you, anything you want me to
Your love as far as i can see, is all i'm ever gonna need
There's one thing for sure i know, is true
Baby, i'll go anywhere for you.
I used to think that dreams were just for sentimental fools
And i never find someone, to give their love so true,
But i knew the very minute,
Could'nt live my life without you in it
And now i want the whole wide world to know,

I'd go anywhere for you , anywhere you ask me to
I'll do anything for you, anything you want me to
Your love as far as i can see,
Is all i'm ever gonna need
There's one thing for sure i know is true
I know is true
Baby i'll go anywhere for you

Hey baby, hey baby, hey baby
hey baby, hey baby
I'd go anywhere for you, anywhere you ask me to
i'd do anything you want me to, anything you want me to

Your love, as far as i can see
Is all i'm ever gonna need
There's one thing for sure i know is true
baby i'll go anywhere for you, anywhere you ask me to
I'll do anything for you, anything you want me to
Your love as far as i can see
Is all i'm ever gonna need
There's one thing for sure i know is true,
Baby i'd go anywhere for you

Everyone looked at sheridan and luis in amazement, who thought weeks ago that they would be like this. Even more in awe was Pilar who went over to theresa and said, "Theresa, they are really good at this acting thing, i mean, even i'm being convinced." theresa replied, "Mama, don't you know anything, this is not acting" pilar replied, "What do you mean, this is not acting, this is just a show put on, to convince everyone that sheridan and luis are married, this is part of the FBI's plan," Theresa said, "Mama, does that look like a show to you. It is fate, it is real love, this had nothing to do with the plan.

Look at them mama, they do love each other." pilar replied, "My god, how did this happen?" theresa replied, "Mama, it is fate. Sheridan and luis have been in love with each other for a long time, i have been telling you that, but no one would listen to me" then pilar said, "But theresa, what made them choose tonight to ..." theresa replied, "mama, there were times before when sheridan and luis could have controlled their feelings, but with them having to do this FBI thing, things they had to do, for everyone, the hugging, the kisses, the glances, everything, it really did a number on them now, hiding their feelings was not going to cut it any more, why do you think sheridan flew out of here in the first dancesong.

Her love for luis, she couldn't bear feeling it, acting as if she's in love with him, when she really is, and it was the same for luis. Mama, be happy for them, they have found each other finally , for all you know, by next year you'll be celebrating your first grand child's birth." Pilar, gave her a slight smile and then went back to watching them and then said "Her father and brother isn't going to like it." and theresa answered, "Well luis and sheridan can handle them, there are no boundries when it comes to love, they will have to accept sheridan and luis being together, no one can control who you fall in love with and who you don't" and pilar ended with, "Well i pray to god to give sheridan and luis strength and for him to protect them and their love."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 10:

Later that night, at the cottage, luis and sheridan lay wrapped up in each other, all the feelings they kept hidden for so long, exploded through the deep, passionate kisses, the fire of their lovemaking, that burned every inch of their being. It was magical, Their minds, their hearts, their souls, clasped into one. The secret of their love was now open, revealed. They truly loved each other. Their love ignited the flames of passion.

Hours later, they lay in each other's arms, sheridan, her head resting on luis's shoulder, her hand in his, which he brought to his lips amd kissed it. Sheridan said, "luis, did you mean it, that i'm the one you want, no one else, not even beth." Luis replied, "Sheridan, i told you that beth is my past, you are my future, and when this drug cartel thing is over, we would still be together." Sheridan said, "Oh luis, i love you, i guess under normal circumstances for a wedding, i would have to say that we just consummated our wedding night." Luis replied, "Well, there's no one else i'd want to do it with, because i love you too." Sheridan smiled and brought herself up to him and kissed him and all the passion and love they felt, their lovemaking began once again.

It was 10 A.M the following morning, and sheridan was getting dressed, when luis came behind her, and took her in his arms, her back against his chest, and he kissed her cheek, and said, "Mmm, sheridan, do you have to..." sheridan smiled and said, "Hmm, luis, just because you have seen me, um, in my birth clothes, doesn't mean i want anyone else to. Remember we have to go to breakfast, and because awhile back, you accidently saw me topless when we still had our misunderstanding, doesn't mean i want anyone else to have an accident." luis laughed and said, "Oh, you mean just like your scrambled eggs." Sheridan turned around and said, "Oh, you..." and she began to hit luis playfully with her scarf, but then he grabbed her and kissed her once again.

Just then, there was a knock on the door and standing there was pilar, with a breakfast tray in her hands. Luis went over and took it from her and said, as pilar entered the room and went over to sheridan, "Mama, you didn't have to do that. Sheridan and i was coming over to the main house." Pilar sat on the sofa next to sheridan then said, "That's alright, i wanted to speak with you anyway." Sheridan said, "Is something wrong?" Pilar then said, "This may not be my business, but, hmm, last night, i saw more coming out of that wedding reception than i think any of you planned.

Now don't get me wrong, i am happy, that you finally got your feelings out in the open, it is about time, Mrs. Crane told me, what your father and brother did, sheridan, but i have to tell you that even though, what they did was very wrong, but i think you needed it." Sheridan and luis both exclaimed, "What!" Pilar said, "I know, that is far from what you wanted to hear, because i think if it never happened, you probably would have been together a long time ago, but i think with what happened, you two have learnt how precious, what you have, is how special your love is, and how important you protect it, and another thing you have learnt how far, that the cranes will go, to keep you two apart.

They have tried in the past with bribes and so, and now they tried to use your love for each other, against you, but now that they think you two are married, it is bound to get worse. Mrs Crane has advised that, luis, now that you and sheridan are married, that alistair and julian will think you would dig further into your father's diappearance, and since now you are living on their domain, they will see you as a threat. And ivy advises that it may be better for the two of you, to move off the crane estate, just for awhile anyway, and i agree with her, we are afraid what their next move may be, if they continue to feel, your a threat.

Please think over what ivy said, and please be careful." sheridan hugged her and said, "Don't worry pilar, we will, anyway luis and i have decided that this drug cartel is far more important now, than confronting them about their desparate, almost successful pursuit to ruin my life. But we promise, we'll be careful." Then pilar, sheridan and luis, sat and had coffee together.

Meanwhile, in the small park, close to the book cafe, theresa and whitney sat on the park bench, talking, unaware, that someone was not too far away, listening in, on their conversation. Whitney said, "You know theresa, i would have never guessed less than a year ago, that i would have ever attended a wedding by sheridan and luis. I mean, their obviously so in love with one another, and why did sheridan run out like that in the middle of the first dance?" Theresa replied, "Whitney, if i tell you something, do you promise you won't tell anyone? You've got to promise." whitney said, "I promise, what is it."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 11:

"Well.... you know, since the FBI assigned luis to protect sheridan, the FBI is afraid that the drug cartel will take all chances to kill sheridan, especially with her history of using all opportunity to elude from luis...so they placed them both in an undercover plan, by marrying them off. I mean, sheridan and luis aren't really married with what the FBI did, everything was part of a plan where sheridan and luis have to pose as a married couple. It is part of some big plan to protect sheridan and luis... They have to do this infron of everyone. It is only me, mama and miguel, who knows what is going on, except now you know."

Whitney said, "I can't believe that theresa, they looked so in love last night, so everything was a show, and they were just acting." Theresa smiled and said, "Well, not everything. Sheridan and luis are in love, and what you witnessed last night, after she changed out of her wedding dress, was very real. Actually, i won't be surprised if after they went home last night, that they, um...made love, oh whitney, won't it be wonderful if sheridan, a crane, makes me an aunt. No matter what luis says about bringing down the cranes if he found out they had something to do with papa's disappearance, i know that because he loves sheridan, he will protect her..."

Whitney said, "Theresa, do you think they would have really slept together, i mean they still have alot to overcome when it comes to her family, and they just learnt about each others feelings." and theresa said, "That's exactly why they would defintely make love. You saw the passion they felt for each other. You felt the heat. Even mama said she became convinced in what was going on, because what they felt was real, that was no show. Well i am glad that their finally together, and until this drug cartel is over, they will be presenting themselves married even though the feelings they express, will be true."

A short distance away, hidden behind a huge shrub, was hank, listening, and he said to himself, 'So, luis and sheridan are not really married, i can probably use this to my advantage. Just because they aren't married doesn't mean that i am going to accept this love that they have found. If theresa is right, sheridan and luis have taken their relationship to the next level. They are going to pay for what they did to me, i can no longer keep them apart from falling in love, but i could put a damper on their relationship." Hank got up and left.

A couple of days later, it was the end of the week, and all of harmony were hanging out at the book cafe, as well as luis and sheridan, who went to meet Agent Freeman. Sheridan was flipping through a magazine, when out of the blue, she was grabbed from behind, and pulled in a kiss from hank. Sheridan tried to push him away, and when luis saw what was happening he rushed up and pulled hank away and said," Hank, what are you doing, forcing yourself on sheridan, she's my wife, remember."

Everyone stopped what they were doing and looked over to sheridan, luis and hank. Hank said, "Luis, from what i understand, you and sheridan aren't really married." sheridan almost fell back and said, "What did you say?" and hank continued, "you heard me you are just acting like you are because of some drug cartel thing, so luis, i guess for you saving sheridan's life, even if the FBI is paying you a bundle of money, sheridan is giving her own little payment of making the living arrangements much more tolerable and comfortable. " luis said.

Bastard, you are sick, you must also be very jealous to say that sheridan and i aren't really married." Hank said, "Ahh, come on, luis i am your best buddy, you could have at least let me in on the little secret, and not only that, but you could have let me enjoy a little of what sheridan is giving you. It must be great to finally have her in your bed, making love to her, having your hand all over her beautiful body, you could have at least shared her with me. At least that we would know that if she were to get pregnant, there'd be a fifty percent chance that it's mine. Wouldn't that be fun."

"But she is so hooked on you, that all i can say is BORING, but don't worry luis, cause if the drug cartel make another attempt and you give up your life to save sheridan's, i'll make sure, that she gets the rest of her quota of what you didn't get to give her." Sheridan said, "Hank, how could you say those things, how could you do this to luis and me, and i told you times before that you and i supposed to be just friends.

That's all, but when it comes to me sleeping with you, that will never happen. I love luis." Then hank said, "I wonder what Alistair Crane would say if he learnt about this revelation." Luis's temper exploded as he grabbed hank and slugged him, and then sheridan ran up to luis and said, "Luis, no, luis don't...leave him... he can't prove anything, remember, anyway, you're the one i love, and the one i will always love."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 12:

Luis let hank go, and Sam rushed over and said, "What is going on here? Hank what are you up to this time." and hank replied, "Sam, why don't you ask that of your so called friend. He and Sheridan led you on. Led everyone on, making everyone , think that they are married , when they're not. This is all part of an FBI plot to protect Sheridan and to catch these drug cartel guys. I heard Theresa by accident talking about it. You know, i don't care who in harmony hates me after this but at least i am getting a good payoff for this." and luis says, "What do you mean , hank?" and hank replies, "hmm, i gave, no i should say, sold, the story to the harmony tribune.

By tomorrow morning, everyone in the world will know that you LIED to them, and what would Alistair crane say to that. Luis, you know how he hates you, especially for, um, going at it with his, daughter. So i guess on all sides, you'll be the LOSER this time." Theresa stepped forward and said, "Hank, what happens if your wrong about Sheridan and Luis being not married, and Sheridan's father reads what is printed, and then learns that you lied to him all along. You would have just started a scandal. One that can affect the cranes badly, i mean Sheridan’s father hates publicity of that kind.

What would he do to you." then hank replied, "Well, I don't have anything to worry about because i know that i am right and the tribune will tell it all." Sheridan turned to Luis and said, "Luis, if roger and Pierre read what is in that paper, we could be in a lot of trouble." Luis said," Don't worry, I'll see what I can do." and Theresa said, "no Luis, I'll call the paper, you stay here." she had gone, and within minutes she had returned saying, "Well, according to them they have the right to print what ever they want, but the publisher, has agreed to come down here and meet us."

Hank then said, "Well , I'd love to see how you find a way to get out of this one. I mean FATHER JOSEPH, or sorry, from what i understand, he is not a father at all, just a brother of one of theresa's friends, doing them a favor. Not a real priest marrying, that could be illegal, isn't it, unless authorized by the FBI, you know i could go on and on, and for Alistair crane as well as the drug cartel, oh, not to forget the FBI, i mean knowing Alistair, he isn't going to sit back and take it likely if, there is a scandal for what the FBI has done, he might even KILL you Luis. "Luis then shouted, "Hank, are you drunk or something crazy, don't you care about anyone but yourself."

Theresa then said, "Don't worry Luis, the publisher will be here soon." Sheridan excused herself and Theresa and said, "Theresa, what are we going to do. The signature on the wedding license, that friend of yours, it isn't legit. oh god, i can't believe this is happening." Theresa says, "Sheridan trust me" then ivy came in and pulled Theresa to the side and said, "Has anything happened yet? I am so glad you called. I can't believe that Sam's brother would do this. Well, I guess sheridan and Luis will find out much sooner than we planned. Father Joseph, is in the car waiting.

I can't believe i had to disturb him from giving prayer to a patient at the hospital. Oh, there's the publisher. His name is Edward Douvan. Okay, let's go and get the show on the road." they walked over to the publisher with Sheridan and Luis as well as hank and everyone else and then Edward Douvan said, “So, Miss Lopez Fitzgerald let's get to work. You said that you can prove that what Mr. Bennett said was untrue, because unless you can prove that he gave me false information, i can print whatever i want. I run an honest paper and if anyone sells false information to me then, huh." And Theresa said, "Don't worry, i can prove that Sheridan is a Lopez Fitzgerald through a legal marriage.

Here is a copy of the marriage license and the documents from the church. As you can see, everything is legal." Hank then said, "Don't believe a word she is saying, that signature, of the so called priest that married them, it isn't legit, because he was not a priest, neither a minister, rabbi, judge, or even the queen's mother, this guy is some friend of Theresa's." then the publisher said, "Is this true?" Luis and sheridan looked at each other, afraid to answer, and Theresa said, as she walked back in with father Joseph. She said, "Mr. Douvan, I'd like you to meet father Joseph.

He was the one married my brother and sheridan." and then father Joseph said, "Mr. Douvan, i'm Father Joseph, I am a priest from the Dominican order parish, in Rome, i not too long ago became a priest, that's why i look quite young. I met Mrs. Ivy Crane in Europe, in a hotel where i performed a marriage ceremony there, she was kind enough to direct me to the chapel at the hospital as well, where i went to do some service work as a novice. Mrs. Crane was on business. She called me a couple weeks ago, to ask me to perform a marriage ceremony for her sister in law and the gentleman she was marrying.

Mrs. Crane said she wanted something special for her sister in law's wedding, so she asked me. Here I have a letter from the bishop of the parish where I service. It is normally routine that if we have to perform a marriage or any religious ceremony for that matter outside our jurisdiction, that in order to leave the parish for awhile, we have to give a letter to explain the reasons for leaving for that period of time, and for what religious ceremony, and my bishop approved of the request, on short notice thanks to Mrs. Crane who also spoke with the bishop.

So to answer your question yes, I did marry, Mr. and Mrs. Lopez Fitzgerald." Sheridan and Luis exchanged confusing glances, and then Sheridan said, "Luis, could you bring me a cup of their strongest coffee, i think i need it." And then father Douvan said "Mrs. Lopez Fitzgerald, are you okay. you look a little pale, is it a little morning sickness, or should i say night sickness." And Sheridan said "oh, no, no, it isn't that at all. I don't think that will happen so soon. Remember, Luis and i have only been married for a week, so if anything, was to happen like that, then it is too soon to tell. "

Luis then returned with the coffee and the publisher said, "So, then what Mr. Bennett said, was not true. I am so sorry, for any damage I would have caused. And my reputation well, and if my paper started a scandal, then I would have had to deal with Mr. Alistair Crane, and I make it a point to never have to deal with him. Thank you Miss Lopez Fitzgerald, Mrs. Crane and Father Douvan, you have saved me from a lot of trouble. I will not publish that article. Anyway, goodnight and then he left. Then father Joseph said to ivy, "Mrs. Crane, I am sorry i can't stay, but i have to get back to the hospital to finish my rounds of prayer with the patients, before i head back to my own parish.

So i'll call you before i leave , okay. Goodnight, Mr. Mrs. Lopez Fitzgerald, Theresa, Mrs. Crane." And then he left. Then hank said, "i can't believe this. What is going on here? " And then ivy said, "Don't blow your head young Bennett, you have caused enough trouble. Sam, if your brother causes any more trouble for Sheridan and luis, he will have to deal with me. Okay so, keep an eye on him. And Hank, why don't you go, go do something worthwhile to do, than revenge with your childish tactics. When Sheridan says to you, I LOVE LUIS, I DON'T LOVE YOU. Then she means it. So deal with it. You think I will ever let Sheridan marry you anyway. Are you kidding, no offence, but unlike your brother, looks and personality as I can see aren’t your strongest attributes.

When sheridan has children, all of them will be good looking, wonderful children, because of what they'll get from both parents." At that moment hank stampeded out of the book cafe. Then Theresa and ivy looked at each other, and before they could move, Sheridan and Luis said, "Okay you two, what is going on. How did you pull that off. " And luis said, "We want the complete truth this time." And Theresa and ivy sat back down with Sheridan and Luis opposite them at the table, and Sheridan said, "NOW! "

To Be Continued…

Chapter 13:

Theresa and Ivy looked at each other, and then back at luis and sheridan, then theresa said "Um...Luis.. Sheridan, it was not, uh.. very difficult to prove that your marriage was real, because, umm... it is." Sheridan's empty coffee mug, slipped out of her fingers and landed on the table in a thud. She said, "What...did..you..say?" and theresa replied, "You're really married...what father joseph said, was all true." and sheridan said, "Are you telling me that besides this FBI's plan, you Are you saying that luis and i are really, i mean, actually..we're married. Like in the till death do us part, who God hath joined together, let no man put asunder, kind of marriage. What the hell were you thinking?" Ivy then said, "Don't talk to me in that tone of voice, young lady. You may be my sister in law, however, i do have your best interest at heart, and i thought it was time for you to settle down and be serious of something. I wasn't going to let you take something so special and good like what you and luis have, and throw it away." Sheridan leans back, drops her hands in a thud on the table and says, "Well supposing luis didn't want to marry me, uh, supposing for a long time i didn't know that he loved me, who's to say that he wanted to marry me." planned the entire wedding to be real.

Then luis says, "Who's to say sheridan wanted to marry me? Suppose we never learnt the truth about what happened between us. Sheridan would probably have never wanted to marry me." Theresa said, "Luis, Sheridan, wake up! What is wrong with the two of you. Can't you see that your love for each other would have beaten all of that. You love each other now, just like you loved each other then, the only difference is, then, you were too proud to admit it, and show it, but now, you are going all out to let us know that you love each other, well HELLO! everyone knew that already, it was just for you to take the next step.

Which we have done for you. One day the truth would have come out, as mama says, and then nothing would have stopped you both from continuing where you left off, getting married and having a family, just like what you both have wanted. Sheridan I know you love luis, you have always loved luis. Ethan told me, that while the two of you were on some walk that you were talking about some tale, about a captain or sailor and his wife, and about true love and you thought you found it with luis. Well, if i told you at the time that you did, you might or you might not have agreed with me, because you were so angry about something you thought luis had done to you. But now, i know you would agree with me, and according to a certain person who called home when you were'nt there, they wanted to know if you, luis and sheridan had kissed and made up yet.

She laughed when i told her that you were assigned to protect sheridan 24/7 and that you were living with her at the cottage even though you were still bickering. She said that she hoped you two would listen to her and not let the true love you two have together slip through your fingers, she said, that you should'nt allow yourselves to lose what you have with each other." Both sheridan and luis said, "Tina!" and theresa said, "yes. you see, we weren't the only ones to know that behind all that bickering and childish games you two used to play, you loved each other. I don't know why when the two of you were together, in the city of love, why you didn't take advantage of the aura and mystery of it all.

You two were the perfect couple to experience what paris offered for lovers." and ivy said to a shocked sheridan and luis, "I agree with theresa. At least she knows not to hide her feelings. You know if the two of you had really put your anger aside for just awhile, put your shyness aside and got down to what broke you up, then we won't be going through this now, because you too would have been together a long time ago, and not just a week now." Theresa got up and said with tears in her eyes, "Luis, sheridan, when love comes your way, grab it, and don't let go of it. I love the two of you so much, you know luis, you have been my big brother who helped mama take care of us. Even though you were younger than i am now, when you had that responsibility, you were there when i needed you, you gave up alot to take care of everyone. But luis, miguel and i aren't babies anymore, we aren't kids anymore. We both have jobs and mama, is okay with her work with Mrs. Crane, and wecan take care of ourselves. It is time you think about your own needs.

You know, enjoy your life. You have always spoken about finding that special someone, to get married, to and to raise your own family, well luis, you have found that special someone, in sheridan, you have said you do love her, and you are married to her, even before you married, even before you admitted your feelings, even before you even began to get along last year, sheridan, you went with luis to mexico to help him search for papa, even though you were'nt getting along, and then New years when we thought papa died , you were there for us, even after, and then for valentines when miguel and charity almost drowned, you were there for our family, sheridan, you became part of our family .... Luis, from christmas, never felt about you the way he felt about the rest of your family.

You were different. But anyway, our doing was not what brought you two together, it was love, it was your love for each other, so please, don't let it go, now, that you found out that you are really married, we just want you two to be happy because without each other, you would have been miserable. you would have died without each other. Umm, Mrs. Crane, i .. uh . ... i have to go.i.. am sorry," and she got up and ran out of the book cafe, with sheridan running after her, and saying, "Theresa, theresa, please stop, i want to talk with you." Theresa stopped and sheridan went to her and said, "Theresa, what you and ivy did for luis and me, was .... it meant alot to us" theresa said in shock, "What?" Sheridan smiled and said, "Yes, it did, i didn't mean to snap earlier, i was just shocked, that's all. Look, everything you said, you were right.

There was a time i believed that love conquered all, and then, when luis and i broke up before, i stopped believing in true love. I never thought i would ever find it, but i did with luis. He has given me soo much, love, safety, comfort, everything. I mean, that once this whole drug cartel thing is over with i have decided to give up everything, The luxury of the crane establishment, everything, so that luis and i can build our life together. We know that it would be hard for awhile. I mean, we don't know where we would live, since we will be moving out of the cottage, luis was thinking we could stay with your family for awhile, until we could get our feet on the ground, i mean luis probably won't like the idea of me working with him being so old fashioned, you know, he may want me to stay home, and raise our family. but i too would like to make a contribution."

Theresa so excited pulled sheridan into a hug and said, "Oh, my gosh sheridan, it would be great if you and luis come to live with us, it will be fun having a sister around, i can help you, you know, when you have your babies, and so. I can teach you so many secrets about my first love which is working in fashion, i mean you always look great so you can help me, we can go into business together, you know, make it a family thing, me, you, your daughters, when they come, oh my gosh this is so much fun" and sheridan says, "Theresa...theresa, hold on, we still have a while before that happens, and as i told luis, i don't even know how to bathe a baby." and Theresa said, "Don't worry, i'll be there to help you, i have done a lot of babysitting in my time." And sheridan laughed, "Well, i guess we know now what will happen later down the line.

So, luis and i are married, wow, i still can't believe it, it seems too good to be true. Well, theresa, i can assure you, that luis and i are going to be very happy, and we are going to make it as real and wonderful as we can." and theresa said, "That's great, i am so glad, you two deserve to be happy." and sheridan said, "Wait a minute, theresa, on my wedding day, while we were at the cottage talking you said something like, 'who's to say this marriage isn't going to be a real one, you said it was up to me to make it real, you knew then that we were married and that this was going to happen didn't you," theresa said, "Guilty, but i am glad that it did happen." Just then luis came out and said, "Theresa, i am so proud of you, you have made me very happy." and he hugged her and then placed his arm around sheridan's waist and said, "Theresa, i've got to get sheridan home, i am putting her in danger just standing out here, but, we'll see you tomorrow, okay," and Theresa nodded, and smiled and as sheridan and luis were going to walk off, sheridan said, "Thank you again theresa, for everything." and then they left.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 14:

Six weeks had passed, and sheridan and luis spent most of the time at the cottage because of the fear, luis had concerning sheridan's safety. Pilar, or theresa took care of their shopping needs. One night at the mansion, Julian was sitting in his chair, talking with alistair on the phone, and julian says, "Well father, what are we going to do now? It seems that sheridan is so blinded by love that our mask plan does'nt seem to matter anymore. She's in love with luis, more than ever now, and nothing we say can break them apart, although i have heard that she and luis are planning to move out of the cottage, so we may have nothing to worry about.

He won't have access to the crane mansion anymore and ....." Alistair said, "If you believe that, then you're a bigger fool than i thought julian. But until this drug cartel business is over, luis and sheridan will be living at the cottage....unless...." and julian said, "unless what father...what devious plan are you coming up with this time." Alistair says, "Julian, i want you to find out as much about this drug cartel as possible. I want names, pictures, everything. I think it is about time we give our friend here, luis, a little help in defeating this drug cartel." and julian said, "But father, what about our plan to break them up, keep them apart."

and alistair said, "Julian, that was okay before they were married, even before their romance became anything. But you have failed with that julian, but we can't go that way. If anything were to happen to her beloved luis, your sister will get chief bennett to run a complete investigation and she'll learn we were behind it. Your sister isn't stupid like you julian, she has a head on her shoulders. Ohh, julian, you really don't know matters of the heart, do you? It is too late for us to break up your sister and luis.

They are attached now, but we'll have to find another way to prevent luis from running that investigation on his father's disappearance. And one way is to take away the access he has to that information. Get him off the crane estate, get that information julian, once the drug cartel business is over, luis and sheridan will be leaving the cottage, and sheridan will give up her access to the crane estate. We need to get them off the property. Get to work julian. Good night." Julian hung up the phone and went to his room.

BACK AT THE COTTAGE

Sam, luis, and miguel sat in the living room, watching a basketball match while sheridan, pilar and theresa were in the kitchen cleaning up from dinner.. "So, luis, how are things going? Heard from agent Freeman lately." Luis said, "Yeh, Yeh, i did. Gosh, i can't believe how terrible things have gotten. He said that the drug cartel is getting desparate, and they are more determined than ever now to make sheridan their target... He said that just because we have'nt had any attacks lately, does'nt mean that they are not around... He thinks that they are just watching to see when i'll let my guard down, to make their move." and Sam said, "Well, i agree with him. I mean, these guys are professionals, and they are'nt going to stop till they get what they want, but i know she'll be safe with you." and luis said, "Thanks for the vote of confidence. If anything were to happen to her, i don't know what i'll do."

Meanwhile, in the kitchen, theresa was washing the dishes, pilar packing away the left over food, while sheridan wiped the dishes and pilar said, "So sheridan, has anything new happened concerning the hitmen that are after you." Sheridan said, "No, not for awhile, and luis has become more worried than ever. He would'nt even let me out of his sight, not even for a minute." Pilar smiled and said, "That's luis, he gets so protective, when it comes to the people he loves... hmm, i am still in shock from what you and luis told me about you being really married."

And sheridan said, "Really, well, what can i say, we love each other. It was just hard for us, you know, admitting our feelings, clearing up the misunderstanding between us, but i love him pilar, and i know he loves me. He doesn't stop telling me, and i don't think i can be happier with anyone else. He has given me so much, you know, everything in life i have ever wanted. You know, I feel so safe with him too, and he has become my protector, he has given me true love, committment, care, a reason to get up in the morning, and... and something more precious for both of us, he has given me a... a life to care for." And pilar stopped what she was doing and so did theresa and sheridan looked at them and said.

"What...did you say" and theresa said, "Mama, can't you see what sheridan is trying to tell us? Mama, she's pregnant." Pilar said, with her eyes with tears, "You're...oh my god, sheridan, oh, my gosh," And then she hugs sheridan and then as pilar let her go, pilar started to go towards the living room saying, "Luis, luis, i am so happy for ..." and sheridan runs behind her and pulls her aside and says, "Pilar, no, no, pilar, he doesn't know yet, i only found out yesterday, i didn't tell him." and pilar said, "But sheridan, if you found out yesterday, why didn't you tell him. He needs to know, you know how he always wanted to be a father, you should tell him." And sheridan says, "I know, i know, i plan to tell him, i just needed to adjust to the news myself, i mean luis and i have only been together for about seven weeks now, i never expected for it to happen so soon, i mean i am happy, i have always dreamt of the day i'll find out that i'm going to be a mom, and telling my husband, but i am not sure luis is ready." and pilar said, "Sheridan, luis is always ready for that.

I mean, a baby... Sheridan, God doesn't give people a baby if he doesn't believe they are ready. And you and luis are ready. I can feel it. Your love is so strong that this baby will deepen that love, and ..." then came a voice from behind, "Baby... who's having a baby." It was luis and sheridan and pilar turned to face him, with sam, miguel, theresa looking on and sheridan said, "hmm, um, me luis, i'm, i'm having a baby." She looked into his eyes and saw the tears of joy in his eyes and without warning he picks her off the floor, with his arms around her waist and spins her once around the room, with the others looking on and pilar wiping the tears from her cheeks. Luis then put her down and said, "Wait a minute, are you sure, how do you know?" and sheridan said, "I'm positive.. i found out yesterday, remember when eve came to see me and you went to talk to the security and mike, well, she confirmed it." And luis continued, "oh, my gosh, oh my gosh, i'm going to be a dad."

And Sheridan said, "hey luis, this baby won't be coming for a next seven or eight months so,....and remember, you're the one with the baby batheing experience, so," luis smiled and hugged sheridan and said, "hey, don't worry, we'll get to that when the time comes, but for now i am going to just enjoy the anticipation." And sam say's "Luis there is nothing more wonderful in the whole world, than when you see that little bundle of joy for the first time, and you know that it is part of you, you know, even when you're in the delivery room , there is something about the miracle of child birth that just amazes you, wow, this is, great." And sheridan said, "Thanks, hey, let's celebrate, Sam, why not call grace and the girls, tell them to come over, i have ice cream, and cookies." And sam said, "great idea!" and he did just that...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 15:

For the remainder of the night, everyone, the Bennetts, the Russells, and ivy and ethan, joined sheridan, luis, miguel, theresa, and pilar, in celebrating the news of the new baby that will be joining their family in months time.

Weeks passed and julian was sitting in his study talking on the phone with his father, "Father, i couldn't believe it when ivy told me that sheridan was pregnant, they have only been married for less than three months and she gets pregnant, couldn't she wait till she and luis got off the property before they started to,...grace our lives with their pathetic brood of Lopez Fitzgeralds." and alistair replied, "Julian, you have not learnt anything having ivy as your wife and your share of lusting after your milk maids.

You and ivy may not have loved each other, but you found a way to produce the heirs to the crane empire, so your sister have decided to do the same, producing heirs for the Lopez Fitzgerald. Anyway julian, i got that information you sent me, your connections in washington, have been very thorough, i hope you didn't get any of this information from your sister, she'll never stop being suspicious of us. Thank god she knows nothing about what really happened that night. Anyway, i have to get to this information and deal with this drug cartel once and for all. We have to get luis and sheridan out of our lives and off the crane property.

I will get back to you julian, to give you an update with any progress about destroying the drug cartel that have caused luis to move on the estate to protect your sister from them. If it was'nt for them, things would'nt have gotten so bad, they'll pay for this julian, i cannot...." just then julian cleared his throat to indicate that they had visitors and sheridan saying "Hello father, i see you and julian have been keeping yourself busy, i wonder doing what?" then alistar said, "Sheridan, it is lovely to hear you my dear." And sheridan said, "I'm sure it is, but luis and i just came to tell you that mike is going to be around the cottage alot more, with luis and i, instead of with security." and alistair said, "Alright my dear.

So i hear congratulations are in order sheridan, my little baby having a baby of her own, i could remember the day you were born, you were the most beautiful baby i had ever seen, you still are," and sheridan said, "Thank you father, but i think my baby will be much more beautiful, i mean look at the parents." and alistair said, "Well, i agree...well luis, being a father is a wonderful committment that any man can be blessed with, and i know that you will make an exceptional father."

"Well, it is a privaledge and joy to have a child with sheridan, she will make a wonderful mother, just as i will take excellent care of my child, just like my father did until he disappeared..anyway..sheridan we better go, agent freeman will be coming over soon, so..." And sheridan said, "Goodbye father." and they left with alistair saying, "julian, i am going to deal with that drug cartel, once and for all. We have to get sheridan and luis off the property, good bye julian." And then he hung up the phone and julian, lying back on his sofa.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 16:

Two weeks later, one early morning, while sheridan and luis were still in bed, there was a knock on the cottage door, and sheridan and luis jumped up, with sheridan putting on her robe and they hurried to answer the door. There stood Hal Freeman, and sheridan and luis invited him in. After sitting Hal said, "I am sorry to disturb you, this early morning, but i have some disturbing information. I just got a call from headquarters, and their connections in paris, just informed them that roger and pierre have been found dead, shot in the head, in a hotel there." sheridan exclaimed, "WHAT!" and luis says, "Agent Freeman, are you sure, how did this happen?" and agent freeman says, "I don't know, it seems no one knows, not even the parisian police.

Who ever did it, knew what they were doing. Had it well planned, We are investigating it, but it looks hopeless to find out, who was involved, there were no witnesses, nothing, we were thinking it may have something to do with a drug ring or even someone who were eager to get rid of them because roger and pierre were threatening them, i don't know, but as soon as i find out something, i'll tell you." Sheridan said, "Agent Freeman, um, luis and i were planning that after this whole drug cartel thing was over that, we will move into my mother in laws home.

I mean, it is not that i don't like living at the cottage, i love it, it is just... this is part of my family's home and now that luis and i are having a family of our own, we would need a little more room. I was wondering if, now that roger and pierre are no longer a threat, if we can start moving into the other house." And then hal said, "Well, just because that roger and pierre are dead, doesn't mean you are out of danger.

Who ever they hired to kill you, they are still out there, and they are going to try and finish the job, however, even though your family does have excellant and well trained security , the whole estate is still open and spread, so it is easy for intruders to get on the ground and to have access to it, to target you, so it may be more safe if you do move in by your mother in law, it is more secure, but you have to be careful, also, monitor who comes in and out at the house, because we don't know who was hired, it can be anyone, even more, a person you think you can trust, just to get close enough to finish the job.... Anyway i have to go.

Interpol said they would contact me as soon as they know something, so .. watch your backs. Both of you. Anyway, take care of yourself sheridan , especially for that baby, because it is one lucky child to have parents like you two. I mean, i know that when you first found out you had to live together with you luis, being sheridan's body guard, it was not acceptable to either of you, you both were so against it, that my job was threatened by julian crane, and then when you found out you had to marry as part of an undercover operation, to protect both of you and to catch roger and pierre at the same time, you were'nt too ecstatic about it, but you certainly made the best of it. My boss at headquarters are now calling himself the king of lovers matchmaking.

I know the two of you will be very happy together, i mean besides all the arguments and childish behavior, i saw that you two were really in love, but i didn't say anything. I saw and felt the hot chemistry between you. Anyway, i'll see you later. If you do plan to move into the other house, i would suggest you start immediately, okay ...good day." and sheridan and luis led him out, and hal freeman left. with sheridan and luis closing the door behind them and sheridan turning to luis and saying and hugging him, "Oh, luis, things are getting better, .... oh .. we have so many things to do, so that we can move out of the cottage.

I have to pack our clothes and my books and my...." and luis broke her off with a kiss, and then he said, "Sheridan, honey, you're still not out of danger, and another, you are not going to do any of those things, listen, i'll call mama and theresa and ask them to come over and help you, i'll pack my clothes, but they'll take care of you. I don't want you doing too much to tire yourself out. You need to rest." and sheridan said, "Oh, luis, i'm fine, i mean theresa and pilar could come to help but, i want to do something too.

But, luis, women have been having babies from the beginning of time, if i don't at least do a little bit of work i'll definetely get tired. I need to continue doing things like i do everyday, pregnancy is not an illness, where you don't do anything. I enjoy being pregnant, and i'll enjoy it even more, knowing that i can move around more or less the same way i have been doing before i got pregnant." And luis said, "Alright, but not too much, anyway i'll call mama in a little while and then we can have breakfast..." And sheridan said, "okay, well i'll go and have a shower, but pilar is probably now at the main house, so i think you should try over there first." And luis said, "Okay" and then they stole a quick kiss before luis went to call his mother and sheridan went back in the bedroom.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 17:

Later on that day, Sheridan, Pilar ,and theresa, were in the bedroom packing clothes and personal items in boxes, while luis and sam, were in the living room, watching a football game on tv. While sheridan folded her clothes, she looked across to pilar and said, "Pilar, is something wrong? I realized that since you learnt that luis and I got married, and then the baby, you seem uneasy about something. Are you upset about luis and me? Tell me pilar, is it because of luis and me. I never thought to ask you how you felt about us…" Pilar said, "Don't get me wrong sheridan, i love you just as i love luis.

I told someone once that any woman will be happy to have you for their daughter in law. And i am lucky because you are just that. I guess, it is just that,... i am worried that's all. Sheridan, i'm afraid for you and luis, for your life and the life of your baby. Sheridan, your father and julian weren’t too pleased when you married the house keepers son. I mean, your and luis' love won far beyond those obstacles. Even luis was worried sometime ago, before you even got together , quite in February whether you would be able to live his lifestyle or not.

He had strong feelings for you then, too, and he really wanted to have a future with you, but is if you will be able to cope with his lifestyle, he wanted you to be as comfortable as possible, if both of you did decide to carry through with the relationship, and i was happy that he had feelings for you. He never cared that much about anyone before, not even Beth. Listen, i am pleased, happy and thrilled that you are going to live with us sheridan, i do hope you'll be as happy with us as we are happy to have you.

I always thought of you as a daughter, and by marrying luis, you have definitely become one." and sheridan said, “Don't worry about my father and julian. There is nothing they can do now. Listen, no amount of money or power in the world, will ever replace what luis has given me, the love we have, you, theresa and miguel, as my family and the baby, it is priceless. You have always made childhood for me bearable. Always, you have been that mother that i lacked.

You theresa, pilar, that day when miguel and charity almost drowned, valentines day, when miguel was saved, i watched you theresa, with luis and i told ethan that i could see the amount of love within your family, and i yearned for that. And now, i have gotten that love I wanted. I will give up all my money and all crane connections everything to be loved everyday of my life by luis. " And pilar went and hugged her and then when the packing was completed, sheridan called out for luis to get the boxes to pack in the car.

After doing that pilar, and theresa, waited in the car, while sam went to double check around the cottage and luis was in the bedrooms with sheridan who was touching up her makeup. She told luis that she will wait for him in the living room while he made sure that everything was turned off and packed. Just as he was about to walk out the door, he saw sheridan's compact on the dresser. He remembered the day he gave her the compact.

He had broken hers by accident when he saves her life, in mexico, and when they returned back to harmony, christmas eve, he bought her a new one to replace the one he broke. He could remember the smile on her face when she opened the package, and she said that she loved it. He slipped the compact in the breast pocket of his shirt and headed outside to meet sheridan.

As they closed the door to the cottage and headed for the car, and then, coming from a short distance away , was the sound of a gun being fired and Luis shouting and running up to her and pushing himself in front of her to act as a shield he screamed, "SHERIDAN!!" then, minutes after, Luis was lying on the lawn with no movement and sam, pulling out his gun and shooting in the direction of the fired gun, and all he heard was someone fall back against some tall blossom trees a short distance away.

On seeing Luis fall to the ground, sheridan, theresa, and pilar, fell down beside him with Sheridan saying "Luis! Luis! nooo! luis , please be alright." Sam, forgetting that there was a hitman out there, supposedly wounded or dead, sam went to luis, and saying, "I don't understand, there is no blood, but he is not moving." And just then, luis started to moan, and when he opened his eyes sheridan said, "Oh, my god luis, thank god, " And Luis said, "what happened” And sheridan said, "Luis you saved my life, you got shot."

And luis said, "Shot? But I don't see any blood, ohh, wait a minute” And seeing the whole in his shirt pocket, he carefully opened the pocket, and taking out the compact, there was the bullet, lodged into it. And Sheridan said, "my compact "and sam said, "Well sheridan, the two of you were together on this one, he saved your life and you saved his. listen, sheridan, you take the car, go to pilar's, i'll go check out our hitman, okay, take care." And Sheridan smiled at him and said, "you too." and with her getting in the drivers seat and Luis in the passenger seat next to her and they left with Sam heading towards to the area where he fired.

To Be Continued…

Chapter 18:

Hours later, theresa and pilar were upstairs in luis's room, putting clean sheets on the bed, while sheridan was in the kitchen washing dishes from dinner. Luis came up behind her, and wrapped his arms around her waist and she said, "Hmm, luis, you okay? I got so scared when i saw you get shot. Thank god the compact saved you. If anything were to happen to you, i don't know, i don't know what i would do." and luis said, "I'm fine, don't worry? I love you so much." and she replied, "I know, i love you too, but do you love me enough to go and get me some, hmm, cookie dough ice cream with a mixture of chocolate and coloured sprinkles on it?"

And luis said, "Well, mama was telling theresa that when she goes to the grocery, to pick up a carton of this ice cream, because she thought you may be going through that craving stage," And sheridan said, "Ohh, this is so sweet of her." Then pilar entered saying, "How about some hot chocolate you two?" they both nodded and sheridan went to help pilar when the phone rang, and luis went to answer it, and sheridan said to pilar, "Pilar, thank you so much for the ice cream."

And pilar replied, "No problem, i remembered when i was having luis, all i wanted to eat was chocolate ice cream, sometimes vanilla, with a double serving of chocolate sprinkles on it, and so much so, that in the middle of the night, i would get up and have that." And sheridan said, "So that is where his love for chocolate sprinkles came from. Wouldn't it be funny if the baby loved both, or maybe none at all." Pilar smiled, and then luis hung up the phone, and sheridan and pilar, seeing luis's face, sheridan went to him and said, "Luis, honey, are you okay, who was that on the phone, you look like you've seen a ghost."

And luis said, "That was sam, he just told me something i still can't believe." And sheridan said, "What did he tell you." And luis replied, "You better sit down for this," And sheridan and pilar pulled out the chairs and took their seats, and luis continued, "Sam said that the person who tried to shoot you, the supposedly hitman, well... um, he was seriously injured when sam fired back, and... um, he is in critical condition, at the hospital." and sheridan said, "So, is he saying i am no longer, in danger? well if so, then what's wrong?" and luis replied, "Well, it's who the hitman was.... um ... it was .. uh ... it was hank." and both sheridan and pilar exclaimed, "WHAT!"

To Be Continued...