Heartbreak..continued
Chapter 15:
At Crane Industries Head office Ethan poured over the documents Cynthia had prepared. "This is great work, thank you. Clear and concise. Please, let's proceed as you suggested. There's one other thing I need to ask you though," Ethan began. In the hall way a casually dressed David Reid waited just outside the door as Ethan continued, "what's your assessment of David Reid's performance?"
"Professionally?" Cynthia looked to Ethan. He nodded and she continued. "He knows his stuff, the bridge financing he arranged allowed operations to continue seamlessly. He's good at what he does."
"Now...personally." Ethan prodded her.
"Nope." Her response was swift. "Ethan, not my place."
"I'm asking. I"m asking for an honest assessment." Ethan continued as David lingered outside the door. "Please, I wouldn't ask if I didn't need to know. And, if I didn't value your opinion."
She hesitated. Cynthia took a deep breath. "I want to be fair Ethan. I don't really know the man. I sometimes wonder if he has a hidden agenda though. He seems to hang on Sheridan, constantly in her office about one thing or another. It's not necessarily inappropriate, but, it often seems to me that, well, he knows what her answer will be but it's an excuse to talk to her. I could be way off base here. But. Sometimes I think he's trying to make himself indispensable. Which, given the fact that Sheridan's high finance experience is, well, non-existent, is understandable. But, I don't think his interest in Sheridan is strictly...professional."
"It's not." Ethan replied. "He has hit on her. She won't admit it but it makes her uncomfortable."
"Have you talked to him about it?" Cynthia asked. "Or is this your way of asking me to?"
"I'd never put you in that position. I just needed to talk to somebody else - think out loud. And to answer your question, yeah, I did say something a couple of weeks ago but, I don't think it helped."
Outside the door David was seething in anger. "That little bitch, she's selling me out!" his mind raced. "Well Ms Cynthia, just how long do you expect to last around here now!" He slipped silently down the hall into his own office and shut the door.
Ethan and Cynthia's conversation continued. "Ethan, what do you think would help?"
"I'm not sure. Honestly, I'd like to replace him. Yesterday."
"Then I'll put out inquiries. First thing Monday morning. On the QT of course." Cynthia stood up. "Well, if that's all Ethan?"
"I'm done too. Cynthia, it's nearly lunch time. Will you at least let me buy you lunch to thank you for all the overtime you've put in?"
"Oh," she hesitated, "I haven't see the sun in weeks and was planning to spend the rest of the day outside. I'm hoping spring is finally on the way." She noticed Ethan's disappointed statement, "Wait a sec, if you make it a hotdog in Lighthouse Park while I walk my dog - you're on."
"Done." Ethan laughed rising from his seat.
"Did you ever play baseball Ethan," Cynthia asked with a grin.
"Left field, why?" He replied.
"Good! Trinity loves to play ball and I can never throw it as far as she'd like." Cynthia laughed. "You just volunteered."
Sheridan met Luis at St. Mary's as promised. Father Lonegan understood their need for secrecy and promised to marry them as they requested. The two lovers decided to take a stroll through the park before returning home.
Hand in hand they meandered along the hill top trail parallel to the water's edge. They saw Ethan and Cynthia in the distance playing with her chocolate lab. Ethan chucked the ball into the water and the Trinity joyfully swam in after it. He took a few steps closer to the shoreline to make sure the dog was okay. He hadn't meant to throw it quite that far. Once Trinity had the ball in her teeth she climbed back out, dropped the ball at Ethan's feet and then...SHOOK. Water beaded off the dog in torrents. Ethan was drenched! Luis, Sheridan and Cynthia burst out laughing at him. Ethan was not amused.
"Ugh!" He turned to Cynthia, "you knew that was going to happen didn't you? He grabbed Cynthia by the shoulders and suddenly her laughter stopped. Ethan looked into her eyes. Ethan saw the consent there and moved in for a sweet, gentle first kiss.
Sheridan and Luis looked to one another. Luis spoke first. "This will break Theresa's heart. She still thinks..."
"I know. I wasn't sure but there have been signs this could be coming. That's Cynthia. Luis, she's a wonderful person, I consider her a real friend. The sad thing is, Cynthia may be a better match for Ethan than Theresa." Sheridan cringed. "I mean, I know she's your sister, and I love her dearly, but..."
"It's not up to us Mia," Luis replied sadly. "Hey, it's one kiss, who knows, she could slap his face and storm away." Luis and Sheridan glanced back toward the other couple. Ethan broke the kiss. He wrapped an arm around Cynthia's waist and they walked along the water with the dog running on ahead. Sheridan frowned. "Then again, maybe not," Luis replied. "Promise me, we won't say anything okay?"
"Promise." Sheridan leaned up and gave him a peck on the lips. "Now, Luis, that was one kiss, and I'm not about to slap your face and walk away."
He gave her a ten thousand watt smile. "Good thing - I'd never let you walk away from me. Never." Sheridan and Luis resumed their stroll knowing Ethan's love life was his own affair.
To Be Continued...
Chapter 16:
Sheridan, Cynthia and Ethan sat at the conference table late in the afternoon on Monday. They had concluded meetings with the head hunters and expected to schedule further interviews with qualified candidates in the next few days. Sheridan looked at both of them seriously. "Cynthia, Ethan knows what I intend to share with you now, and well, I need to ask that you keep this close the vest. Luis and I are getting married."
"Sheridan, that's wonderful. I noticed the ring weeks ago but I figured you'd make an announcement when you were ready. I'm happy for you." Cynthia smiled. "When's the big day?"
"Friday." Sheridan replied. "I know it's sudden but I think you'll understand in a second. I'm expecting our first child in early fall." Sheridan glowed. She looked so cute.
"Wow, you don't waste any time do you?" Cynthia teased good naturedly. "I still don't see the need for the rush. I mean - it's not 1950 - just because you're pregnant doesn't mean."
"I know. But we want to be together and married as soon as possible. It means a lot to us both. Cynthia, the ceremony is at 8 on Friday night - it's very small - family really - but - well, I hope you'll join us."
"Sheridan, I'm flattered. Thank you. I'd love to be there. "
"There's one more thing, something kind of serious that I need to talk to you two about." Sheridan broached the subject carefully. "David Reid."
Ethan and Cynthia looked at one another guiltily. Ethan spoke first. "What about David?" Ethan knew that Cynthia wouldn't have had the chance today to begin making enquiries about replacing him.
"Ethan," Sheridan hedged a bit, "how would you feel if I said I wanted to place him in charge of our West Coast Operations and move another person into Finance here in Harmony. I think we can make it look like a promotion or at least a parallel transfer, but, I'm not comfortable with him here."
Ethan smiled understandingly. "Something else happened?" he asked.
"No, nothing I can put my fingers on really. Just a feeling. But before I do anything about this, I have to ask you both some pretty hard questions. Ethan, you know I stepped up to the plate for the short term here. I intend to leave to have this baby and be a full time Mom. No nannies, no substitutes. Certainly no boarding schools. But to do that, I have to have people in place at Crane that I trust, absolutely."
"You're asking me to commit to running the company?" He knew what she was asking. He looked at Sheridan then stood to look out the window. "Sheridan, a month ago I would have said no way. The shock of learning about Mother and Sam Bennet, plus grandfather's crimes. I would have said I want to distance myself from everything Crane. Except you of course. Well, as crazy as these weeks have been, I've thrived on it. I love it. Yes, Sheridan, I'll stay and run Crane."
Sheridan grinned. "That brings me to my next question Cynthia. I want you to move into Ethan's place. I mean, be for him the ears, the eyes, the sober second thought that he's been for me in the past few weeks. I wanted you to be second in command. I'd feel better knowing the company was safe with you two at the helm."
There were tears in the corner of Cynthia's eyes. "Of course Sheridan. Whatever you ask." Sheridan and Cynthia's eyes met. In an instant Sheridan knew that Cynthia was in love with Ethan. Not the kind of infatuation that he'd had with Theresa and Gwen but he had a chance for mature lasting love with a woman who could be his partner on every level. She hoped Ethan would take the time to let this relationship mature slowly and nurture it cautiously.
"Good!" Sheridan smiled. "Then let's find us another Money guy shall we?"
To Be Continued...
Chapter 17:
Tuesday afternoon Cynthia walked down the hall toward Sheridan's suite of offices. She bumped into David on the way.
"Well, if it isn't our busy little beaver." He said sarcastically. "Do you and Ethan plan to tie Sheridan up all day today too? Some of the rest of us need to see her too you know."
Cynthia held her tongue. She had a really good lead on a replacement for David. The candidate was an old prep school mate of Ethan's who was now Chief Financial Officer for a major international auto parts manufacturer. She was on her way to talk to Sheridan and Ethan now. "David, I'm sorry if you think I'm monopolizing Sheridan's time. Don't you have some labour contracts to cost?"
"Right here." He swished the manilla file in her face. "Just about to deliver them."
"Great, Sheridan and I have a four p.m. with Ethan, I'll take them in for you then." Cynthia wanted to keep this guy out of Sheridan's face.
"Let's get something straight..." David's tone turned ugly and he backed Cynthia up against a wall. "I know what you're doing bitch, you and Ethan want me out. I can see that. Well the thing is, Sheridan, the person who really counts around here, Sheridan needs me. More and more everyday." Cynthia began to feel very nervous. The look in David's eyes was dangerous. David placed a hand on each side of her head effectively trapping the petite brunette with her back against the wall.
"If you want to align yourself with that Bennet bastard, fine. But you're choosing the wrong side, I intend to outlast him. And as for you, little bitch, you can either switch sides now, make me look even better to Sheridan, help me convince that a union with me would strengthen the company." His eyes glazed over and he began to ramble.
"Okay," Cynthia's mind raced, "this guy is psychotic."
He continued to prattle on. "Yes, will convince her to merge with me, you and I. A team."
"No doubt about it - he's nuttier than a pecan pie!" She mused. "How am I going to get out of this?"
Luis wandered the hall ways looking for Sheridan's office. He hated this place. He always managed to get turned around and lose his bearings. He'd only been to Sheridan office once before and that was with her. Maybe he got off on the wrong floor?
He hadn't. He came upon David and Cynthia involved in their tense discussion. Luis called out to her, "Hey Cynthia, everything okay?" He walked toward them. David lowered his hands and backed away.
It didn't take Cynthia long to figure out this was the Luis she'd heard so much about. "How did he know who I was though?" She wondered silently. She saw the roses in Luis' hand and realized he must be here to take Sheridan to her ultrasound appointment. "Luis, nice to see you!" Cynthia smiled sweetly.
David turned on the charm. "Oh, you're the mystery man I've heard so much about." David was lying. Sheridan never mentioned her personal life to him at all. She hadn't even talked about the engagement ring which had appeared on her finger a few weeks ago. "I'm David Reid."
"Hi," Luis said simply accepting the hand offered to him. Luis hated guys who tried to bully women and Luis knew what he'd just seen. "The finance guy right?"
"Yeah, the finance guy." David didn't like that Luis didn't seem to know anything about him. It bugged David that Sheridan hadn't let on how important he was to the company. David saw himself as the saviour of Crane Industries not Sheridan. His obsession had driven him to the brink.
"Cynthia," Luis asked, "can you help me find Sheridan office?" He started to steer her down the hall leaving David behind. He dismissed the other man with a "nice meeting you, Don." Luis intentionally got the other man's name wrong to gauge the reaction. Other than a polite nod, there was none. Luis waited until they were out of hearing range. "I want the scoop on that dude, and I want it now."
Cynthia waited until they were safely in Ethan's office. She closed the door behind them. Ethan, noticing her ash white complexion, got up from his desk and put his hands on her upper arms. "Cynthia, what happened, are you all right." Falling into old habits he looked angrily at Luis, "Luis, what did you just say to her?"
"Ethan," Cynthia whispered. "It's David, it's worse than we thought, he just threatened me..."
Ethan looked at Luis apologetically. "What happened?" He gently wrapped his arms around Cynthia silently thanking God that Luis had happened along when he did. After hearing Cynthia relate the events of the last half hour Ethan was enraged. "Just who does this guy think he is? I don't want to upset Sheridan but..:"
"But What?" Sheridan inquired.
"Nothing." Luis replied quickly and pulled her to him for a gentle kiss. "We don't want to be late, do we?"
"Nope." She smiled at him lovingly. "Let's go see our baby shall we?"
"Let's go!" Luis replied enthusiastically. He sent a warning glance to Ethan who nodded in agreement. They'd all talk to Sheridan when she got back from the doctor.
\-\
The ultrasound technologist was a pain. "Please, turn the screen around for us. We really want to see our baby." Sheridan asked.
"Just one more measurement mam, then I can explain the image to you." He replied. "That's it." He turned the screen to let both Sheridan and Luis get a better look. "Okay, see that blob that moves, my pointer is right on it," he asked them patiently.
"Yeah," Luis replied for both of them.
"That's a heart beat," the technician began.
"But wait, there's another blotch just like it over there," Sheridan said slightly confused. Then it dawned on her. "Are you saying that's..."
"Yes mam, this is the heart beat of the first baby and this..."
Luis broke in, "is the heart beat of the second baby? We're having twins?"
"Looks like it!" the tech replied. "And, based on their size and the development, I'd say you're about 10 weeks along. Congratulations!"
Sheridan looked at the screen, then at the wonderful man at her side. "I don't believe this, Twins!"
"Babe, when we do something, we do it!" Luis laughed and kissed her warmly.
A short time later Sheridan and Luis returned to the office and sat down with Ethan and Cynthia. "Okay, I let you three distract me earlier, but whatever you were saying was pretty serious. What was going down here earlier."
"David Reid. He," Cynthia looked to Ethan then to Luis for support.
"I think he has a problem Sheridan, he threatened me earlier. If Luis hadn't walked up when he did..." Ethan took her hand.
He spoke next. "I don't think we can keep him at Crane in Any capacity Sheridan. The guy's unstable."
She shook her head sadly. She hadn't seen this coming. Luis squeezed Sheridan's hand. "I saw him with Cynthia in the hall earlier. Sheridan the guy's dangerous."
"Then he's gone. He's gone today." She reached for the phone. "I'll do it right now."
To Be Continued...
Chapter 18:
Julian Crane picked lit his cigar. He'd landed on his feet - the personal assets he'd shielded from Ivy in the divorce war had come in handy. It wasn't the Crane estate but his new penthouse was more than adequate. For now. Julian answered his phone on the first ring. "David, how good of you to call. Yes, I know how devoted you are to my darling sister Sheridan. Yes, you'll have the full support of the family.
A summer wedding would be delightful. That's right follow our plan. Good job." Julian hung up the phone and laughed. "Poor lad, he hasn't a clue. Father will finally be proud. Grabbing David the weekend Sheridan and Ethan went to the Cabin and reprogramming him was a stroke of brilliance!"
\-\
Sheridan and Ethan argued for the first time in years. "I hired him, I fire him. Plain and simple Ethan. From what Cynthia says, he hates you. Let's leave the guy some self respect and just let me be the one to let him go."
"Sheridan, the guy is unbalanced. I don't want you in the room alone with him."
"And who do you think you are my guardian angel, my knight in shining armour?."
"Hell no, that's Luis' job! I'm your friend. Your senior staff member, and I'm telling you - firing this guy by yourself is not an option here!"
Luis looked on amused. "Calm down everybody. Sheridan, honey, deep breath."
"Luis, shut up!" Ethan and Sheridan yelled in stereo. Luis held his hand up. "Shutting up." Cynthia cleared her throat. "Compromise please. Sheridan, do it in your office with Ethan and Luis standing by if it looks like it could get ugly.
Sheridan looked at the two men she loved most. "Okay, eavesdrop, but no coming out unless I call for help."
To Be Continued…
Chapter 19:
David didn't take the news well. Not well at all. "Sheridan, I don't understand," he asked when she met with him alone a few minutes later. "I thought the company was on solid ground, stock price has stabilized, well after an initial tumble. But since we took over, we've recovered more than 90% of that fall. A good week on Wall Street next week and things will be just like they were before your Father passed the company on to us."
"David," Sheridan didn't like the sounds of this at all. Maybe she'd made a mistake not having Ethan with her when she fired him. She chose to break the delusion. "My Father isn't dead - he's in jail. He nearly destroyed the company. Not to mention the lives of half the people in Harmony. He was a murder, a thief, an international arms dealer. MY father didn't pass this company on to me. I wrestled it from him and from my brother Julian. And Julian, he took off to God only knows where. I have private investigators trying to find him. David, there is no us. Not the way you're thinking. Ethan and I made the changes, we appreciate your help but David there is NO US. I'm engaged to be married. To a man I love very much. A man who I owe my life to. I think you'd better leave."
David paced the floor. "Sheridan, what did I do? I've been patient, waiting for you to dump that Neanderthal, I even appreciate what you see in him - on a fantasy basis anyway. But darling," his voice cracked and he took a menacing step toward her, "whatever problems we have, we can work them out together."
"Luis," Sheridan called out as David grabbed her arm. Luis and Ethan threw open the door. "I think it's time you left, David, I'll have my secretary mail any paper work along with a final check. Please, I'd rather not have to call Security to escort you out." She pulled her arm from his grasp and moved to sit at the chair behind her desk.
"I'll make sure you don't get lost," Ethan said stiffly.
At Ethan's departure, Luis crossed the room and wrapped Sheridan into his arms. She began to cry softly. "Stupid hormones," she lied. In truth, she was more shaken up by David's delusions than she'd let on.
Luis smiled and kissed her hair. "Hey, you can't fool me?" He whispered making the statement sound like a question. He'd seen the fear in her eyes and knew she wouldn't have called his name unless she had to. "Let's go home. I want to cuddle with my wife and children. After all I won't be able to get away with it so easily in a few months. Right now I can hold you and be holding them all at the same time." He knew mentioning the babies would cheer her up. It worked.
"Luis," she pulled back slightly to look into his eyes. "Let's keep the fact that this is a pair to ourselves for a while. I mean, Eve will know but, I'm not up to everyone making an even bigger deal about this...They could get carried away and."
"Consider it kept." He kissed her then helped her into her coat. "By the way, who did you ask to be your maid of honour Friday?"
"Grace. If it hadn't been for her bumping into me that afternoon and drying my tears in her kitchen...."
Luis forced her to look him in the eye. "We'd have made our way back to one another some other way. I may be a stubborn son of a..."
"Look buddy, you'd better watch what you say about the man I love especially in front of my children!!!" She cut him off with mock anger as her sense of humor returned. He smiled and pulled her into his arms for a hug.
"Okay. Sheridan, I've never said how much I regret walking out that afternoon." He looked at her, his eyes were misty and he reached out to caress her face.
"You came back. Luis, we found our way back to one another. We always will right?" She kissed the palm of his hand.
"Always," he agreed.
To Be Continued...
Chapter 20:
Their wedding day was picture perfect. The warm spring sun was setting but it still shone on her as she finished getting ready in the Bennet living room. The Fitzgerald family gown was perfect for her. It's ivory color set off her skin tone beautifully and the pearls reflected the light. She was stunning.
Sam let out a wolf whistle when he saw her. Grace and the girls laughed. "Sam," Grace said with dismay. "She's nervous enough already! Don't make her even more self conscious."
"Maybe we should adjust the bodice so it covers my shoulders? Maybe off the shoulder is too much." Sheridan asked nervously. "Charity, Jessica, Kay, please help me pull them - my hands are shaking.."
"Girls, don't touch them," the Maid of Honor took over. "They're perfect. You're perfect." The doorbell rang and Jessica jumped up to answer it. Jessica signed for a package and brought it to the living room. "This is addressed to you Sheridan. No return address?"
Sam intercepted the parcel. "I think I better take a look at this. Hey, it's probably nothing but if I let anything happen to you today, Luis would kill me." Sheridan had a bad feeling about this too and nodded her assent. Sam took the package to the kitchen and opened the outer layer. "Nothing suspicious so far." He read the card aloud, "My gift for your wedding day?" Sheridan took a step forward so she could see over his shoulder. He opened the box to reveal a black rose - an age old symbol for death.
"Ugh," Sheridan shuddered. "Who would send...No, never mind. I don't care. It was probably Julian. Well, he can't do anything about this. It's nothing. Some body has a sick sense of humor and I won't let them spoil today. Nothing and no one can ruin today!"
Grace hugged her. "Good thinking. Now, let's take some pictures shall we?"
Ethan met them at the church. "I've never seen you look more beautiful."
"How's Luis?" she asked nervously.
"Trying to remember how to breathe." Ethan laughed. "Pilar's with him now. He'll be fine - as soon as I tell him you're here. You ready?"
"Ethan, I'm more than ready. I have Grace to keep me calm. Please go be with Luis for me. Tell him I'm here, on time, thanks to Sam, and I want to be his wife. NOW." Sheridan hugged him.
"Places everyone," Sam said motioning for the girls to take their seats. He paused to kiss Sheridan's cheek.
"Sam, wait please don't go in yet. I know this is last minute, and I thought I'd be okay, but...would you walk me down the aisle. I think I've figure out why brides have somebody's arm." Sheridan was so cute.
"Me?" Sam looked surprised. Grace smiled at him encouragingly. "Sheridan, nothing would make me happier than making sure you get safely to Luis' side where you belong. Besides, I get a great view of Grace's derriere this way."
"SAM?!" Grace replied to his good natured teasing.
Luis had never seen a more beautiful sight than his love. She was radiant. Sam guided her toward him. Luis smiled at her tenderly and walked to meet her half way up the aisle. It was a symbolic gesture on his part - he intended to meet her half way for the rest of their lives.
"Congratulations guys," Sam whispered as he put Sheridan's hand on Luis' arm. "We're all happy for you." Luis and Sheridan continued up the aisle to the place where Father Lonegan stood. Luis spoke first.
"Sheridan, there were days when I didn't think we'd make it this far. When I was afraid I'd lost the only chance for happiness in this life. I've waited to love you forever. My life began the first time we danced. I'm a better man for having loved you. I know you really accept me for who I am, warts and all. So, I can confidently say, here and now, in front of our family and our friends that I Luis, take thee Sheridan to be my lawful wedded wife. To have and to hold from this day forward, in richer and in poorer, in sickness and in health, for as long as we both shall live. In the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost, Amen."
"Luis, I never thought I could love and be loved by someone like you. I look at you and wonder what I did so right in my life that God saw fit to give you to me. My love, you saved me in so many ways. You made my life worth living. Luis, beloved, I now take you to be my lawfully wedded husband. To have and to hold, from this day forward, in richer and poorer in sickness and in health for as long as we both shall live. In the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. Amen."
Ethan passed Luis his ring. "Sheridan, with this ring, I thee wed. Accept it as a symbol of my constant faith and abiding love. Like the circle of this ring, my love for you has no beginning and no end. Wear it knowing how much I love you." He slipped the ring onto her finger.
Grace passed Sheridan Luis' ring. "Luis, with this ring, I thee wed. It is a token and a symbol of my constant faith and abiding love. The circle is like my love for you, it is everlasting without a beginning or an ending. Always wear it confident that I love you."
After he blessed them Father Lonegan said, "Friends, may I introduce Mr and Mrs Luis Lopez Fitzgerald. Luis, you may kiss your bride." Luis didn't have to be told twice.
The reception was perfect. Laughter filled the air. As it drew to a close, Luis made a great show or removing Sheridan's garter. Her whole leg tingled from the caresses as he slipped his hand along her calf, and thigh to remove it. Sheridan began to blush. When Miguel caught it, he grabbed Charity and kissed her lovingly. Charity's blush was a perfect match for Sheridan's . The bouquet's recepient was due for heartbreak. It landed in front of Theresa but she dropped it. When she looked up she saw Ethan and Cynthia together - Theresa finally realized her Fate was not to be with Ethan.
To Be Continued...
Chapter 21:
The next few months passed uneventfully. Sheridan's morning sickness remained the only draw back to her pregnancy. It didn't lessen as the months passed but was accompanied by heartburn and the usual body shape. Sheridan had always been trim and in good physical condition. It bothered her to feel so tired all the time. Her ankles were badly swollen in the summer heat and she found that swimming had replaced jogging as her favourite exercise. By her seventh month, the adema, the weight gain, the appetite for strange food combinations, and the normal disruption in her routine was getting to be too much for her. All in all, pregnancy was getting boring and more precisely it was beginning to take its toll on her sense of humor.
"I feel like a beached whale. I can't wear a bathing suit all day. It's the only comfortable piece of clothing I own." She moaned as she sat with Ethan, Cynthia and Luis beside the pool in her back yard. "At least I float!" She climbed back down the steps into the water. At the change in temperature the twins responded enthusiastically. They wiggled and jiggled around inside her. She laughed aloud. "Okay you two, get it out of your system now instead of when Daddy and I go to bed tonight."
Ethan was oblivious to her words but Cynthia caught on quick. "YOU TWO? Sheridan, is that why you're so big? I mean, it's not that you're fat but..."
"She's definitely NOT FAT AND COULD NEVER BE UGLY DESPITE WHAT SHE THINKS SOME DAYS." Luis dove in beside her. He kissed her romantically and placed a hand on her abdomen. "She could never be ugly, or fat, or anything but the woman I LOVE."
"My, I have you well trained don't I?" Sheridan laughed splashing him playfully. "Cynthia, yes, we're having twins, but please, don't go baby crazy on me! That's why we haven't told anyone that there is more than one baby. Please."
"Mum's the word." Ethan couldn't resist the pun. Everyone wished he had. Even Trinity shot him an ugly look. She was such a smart dog. Trinity's behaviour around Sheridan was really cute. A few weeks ago Sheridan and Luis had officially inherited her.
Cynthia's long hours meant the dog didn't get the attention she deserved and the situation was bound to get worse when Cynthia's sister's classes at UCLA began in the fall. Luis was secretly pleased because he liked the dog's protective nature. It relieved his mind substantially when he went to work. In truth though it was as more like Trinity had adopted Sheridan than the other way around. The dog was ever present at Sheridan's side. If Sheridan was in the pool, Trinity sat by the edge like a life guard. When Sheridan sat in a chair, Trinity was at her feet. If Sheridan layed in the chaise lounge, Trinity, now affectionately nick named Shadow, would lay down with her head at Sheridan's right hand.
They were inseparable. Luis had drawn the line at sharing his bed with the dog though. On her first night in their house the dog jumped up on His side of the bed and curled up beside Sheridan refusing his order to leave. Finally Sheridan, who couldn't stop laughing, ordered the dog to the floor at the foot of the bed where she reluctantly curled up. The next day Luis brought a doggy bed home with him from work and he and Trinity became friends again.
"Ha ha ha!" Sheridan shook her head. "Should I throw the burgers on everyone?"
"I'll do it." Luis insisted. "You take it easy." He pushed himself up the side as usual. He never used the steps at the shallow end or the ladder. It was a guy thing.
Over dinner the two couples chatted amicably. "How are things at the office?" Sheridan asked. "I am still interested you know!"
"Yeah, interested but not available to do any real work." Ethan moaned teasing her. He knew she would do anything to help them but so far it hadn't been necessary. "Seriously, since you left nothing is really new. People ask after you and wonder how you are, but honest, Sheridan everything is great."
"GOOD." She smiled at them. "And please tell everyone I'm fine." She reached for a towel and sat back down at the table.
"Eve might not agree with you." Luis replied under his breath.
"What?" Ethan perked. "Sheridan, spill it, what's up?"
"Eve is a bit worried about my blood pressure. It's high. But not unusually high for a multiple pregnancy. If it were up to Luis I'd be in bed 24 hours a day. I'm retaining water, again, no big deal especially with twins. Luis is just paranoid. I'm nearing the end - 5 or six weeks tops."
"Wait a minute, I'm no biology expert but that math doesn't work. I thought it was forty weeks." Cynthia was confused.
"Twins are considered full term at 38 weeks. Actually anything over 35 is a bonus. Eve will schedule an amnio at 35 to check for lung tissue..."
"Yeah, and if you're not feeling any better we're having these babies early. Sheridan, I wish you wouldn't make light of this. Ethan, there's a chance that her kidneys are shutting down."
"Now you're over reacting. There is a SMALL amount of protein in the urine but nothing to be overly worried about!!" Sheridan and Luis were on the verge of a full fledged argument. Trinity stepped in between Luis and Sheridan and growled at Luis.
"Not you again!" Luis laughed staring down at the dog. "Okay Trinity, I'll back off - you just make sure you help me keep an eye on her okay?" The dog circled Sheridan and looked up at Luis. She replied with a friendly little bark and took up her usual place at Sheridan's chair. Everyone laughed.
"Sounds like a party going on back here," Sam called from the gate. "Is there room for two more?"
"If it's you and Grace? Always!" Sheridan rose to greet the new arrivals.
"Ugh, sit yourself down young lady and put your feet up!" Grace ordered. She was carrying a cake plate. "One angel food cake - I hope it will satisfy your sweet tooth without triggering heart burn. Sam has a bowl of raspberries to go with it."
"Grace, you're the angel! Thank you. Can you stay? We're just having burgers and salad. Please join us."
Ethan looked uneasily at Sam. They had run into one another a fair bit through Sheridan and Luis but it was still awkward. Ethan spoke, "Please, Sam, I'll grab more chairs from the shed." Luis raised his eyebrows at Sam.
"Sure, for a while anyway. Thanks." The party gathered around the table. "Got any beer in the fridge Detective?"
"Coming right up Chief!" Luis replied cheerfully. "Sheridan, more juice?" She crinkled her nose. "No, I'm kinda juiced out for one day. But ice water would be wonderful." He nodded understandably.
"Ladies, what can I get you? Another cooler Cynthia?"
"Actually a glass of ice water would be great Luis, thanks." Cynthia smiled up at him. Ethan pulled the chairs up to the table and took the one right beside hers. He reached for her hand.
"Grace?"
"Why don't you bring a pitcher - water is perfect." The three women giggled like school girls as the guys shook their heads.
Trinity circled the table nervously. "Trin, what is it girl?" Sheridan asked as the dog growled toward the gate.
Sam and Ethan were at the gate in under 10 seconds. Just in time to see a car speed off. There was a package on the other side. It was identical to the one that had arrived on her wedding day. She looked at Sam. He pulled out his pocket knife and opened it. The card read, "Twins - two reasons to celebrate."
"Oh my God," Sheridan whispered. "Sam, open it."
He complied. Luis arrived at the table to see him open the box. Inside were two black roses each one attached to a baby rattle. "What the hell?" He grabbed Sheridan as she began to feel faint. He carried her to the chaise lounge and accepted the glass of water from Grace. "What kind of sick bastard sends black roses? Sheridan, babe it's okay, you're okay. Grace call Eve."
"No, Grace. I"m okay." Sheridan stopped her. Grace looked questioningly at Luis and dialed the phone. Eve would be there in a moment.
"Have you had any others since your wedding day?" Sam asked Sheridan.
"No, just then and now."
"What the hell. Somebody sent you a black rose before now? And you didn't tell me? Why the hell not?" Luis was shocked.
"Because I thought it was just Julian. His sick sense of humour you know, just trying to ruin my mood." Luis shook his head. He pulled his boss aside.
"Sam, whoever this is, they have access to some pretty private information. It's no secret we were expecting but other than Eve and an ultrasound tech, nobody knew we were having twins."
"I don't like this." Ethan said quietly. "Who would do this to her?"
"I don't know Ethan," Sam replied. "But I guarantee, every man on the Harmony PD is going to be doing his best to find out!"
Later that night as Sheridan lay sleeping in his arms, Luis mind raced. He was worried. Sheridan had always made light of threats to her safety in the past. And always came to regret it. This time, he wished she'd take things mores seriously. His gut told him it wasn't Julian. It wasn't Julian's style. "Then who?"
She rolled over to look up into his eyes. "Who? Hey, you're supposed to be asleep..I'm the one that keeps waking up through the night. Luis, darling, what's wrong?"
He caressed her cheek. "I was just thinking about the rose. Whoever sent it was obviously twisted. But, babe, who could possibly have found out about the twins. Had you told anyone. Let it slip anywhere?"
"Of course not, thanks for the vote of confidence. I'm the one who wanted to keep it secret. I hadn't even told Grace. Eve knew - she's our doctor. Did you?"
"Nah, none of the guys at the station, not Sam, only you me...I have to be at work soon, let's try to sleep for a bit longer ok? Sheridan, you've got to believe this...who ever's out to scare you, I'll find him and trust me, I'm going to put a stop to it."
"I know you will. You're word is the best guarantee there is. Could I ask a favour? Your son and daughter are giving me a back ache. Would you rub it for me?"
"You bet." His smile matched hers.
To Be Continued...
Chapter 22:
The next morning Antonio met Sam and Luis at the station. "Hey guys, what's up? I got your message and came right over."
"Thanks bro, how's business?" Luis asked slapping his brother on the back.
"Your basic Private I stuff, adultery, divorce, employee theft. The usual why? You thinking of trading in your badge for a job as my junior investigator. I'd pay real well - minimum wage." The two brothers joked back and forth. When Ethan appeared at the door, Luis called him in.
"Ethan, thanks for coming man. You know Antonio right?" The men exchanged greetings then took seats in front of Sam's desk. The other three men brought Antonio up to speed on the previous day's events. "Antonio, Sam and I are going to follow up using official means, but, I was hoping you'd make less official inquiries, if you know what I mean?"
"For family - anything." Antonio replied. "What about security. I mean, you have the mutt, but how about something a little more formal."
"Sheridan won't cooperate," Ethan answered for Luis. "She hates body guards," then nodded knowingly toward Luis, "present company excluded." Luis chuckled. "Do you have any contacts who could shadow her. Without scaring her."
"Consider it done," Antonio replied. "These guys are pros. No nonsense. I'll get right on it."
Sheridan was feeling bored. "Trinity, hey girl," she leaned over and rubbed the dog's soft ears. "Let's go for a walk, pup?" At walk the dog perked and got her leash from the hook by the door. Sheridan grabbed her purse and they went toward Sheridan's favourite outdoor market.
"Hey Sheridan," Theresa called, "care for some company?"
"I'd love some. Trinity and I were just going to check out the baby stuff. Oh, look at these crib sets. They're perfect. One pink tones the other blue."
"Those bears are so adorable. Now, I'm sure Eve has probably told you, I can keep a secret. Do I get to help play set up my niece or my nephew's nursery."
"Yes." Theresa looked confused. Sheridan laughed. "Theresa, you're going to hear this sooner or later, I'd rather it be from me or Luis, yes, I'm counting on you to help set up the nursery. But, it's for your niece and nephew. They'll share a room for a year or two anyway."
"You mean?" Theresa's eyes were wide.
"YES!!!" She hugged her sister in law. "Now, we have a lot of work to do kiddo. What else can we find?"
The two women stopped in front of the Book Café an hour later. They had bought a double stroller which now held all the packages. Trinity stretched out beside it while Sheridan took a seat on the bench. Theresa popped into the shop and returned with an iced cappuccino for herself and a popsicle for Sheridan.
"Chad says hi," Theresa said handing over the popsicle. "He still thinks it's hysterical that you down one of these everyday on your walk with Trinity. He wonders if you're having a kid or if you are a kid?"
"Hey, it's low in fat and it's refreshing. Mm purple my favourite!" Sheridan took a lick. "Thanks Theresa. When do you leave for New York. It must be soon now."
"Thank you again for arranging the internship..."
"Enough already. I introduced you. Your talent got you the job. Enough said. But before you go do you think you can help me make baptism outfits. I'll pay you.."
"Over my dead body. I will make my niece and nephew the sweetest gowns you ever saw."
Luis walked up. "No son of mine is wearing a dress. No way no how." He gave his wife a gentle kiss and his little sister a peck on the cheek. "Trinity, did she behave herself?" The dog inclined her head toward the stroller. "Oh, I guess not. What is all this stuff?" He teased Sheridan gently. "I don't own the town bank you know?"
"NO sweetie, I do." Sheridan joked back. "But I didn't blow it all - I thought I'd wait for you to help choose paint. Well, not choose it - your sister helped me pick a colour. But, you get to paint the room this weekend!"
"Aren't I lucky?" he said dryly. At one time Sheridan's money bothered him but not anymore. Looking over the stuff she'd bought he realized she hadn't been extravagant. Well, no more extravagant than any mother to be.
Chad appeared with a bowl of water for Trinity and a mug of coffee for Luis. "I saw you walk up. How's it going."
"My wife's sending me to the poor house that what? You see all this stuff?"
Chad whistled. "Sheridan, don't get me wrong, but most folks don't buy pink and blue. They ask now a days which one. . ."
He looked at Theresa. "They gonna needed pink and blue right. Both. At the same time. Damn, couldn't happen to nicer people. Luis, you better get lots of sleep now man, cause once these babies come, you're getting none! Twins, congratulations, that's cool."
"Thanks Chad." Sheridan replied. "Luis, can you walk us home. I think I better put my feet up?" She looked down at her ankles which were indeed starting to swell again. "Thanks for your help this morning Theresa."
"Anytime."
As Sheridan and Luis walked along the sidewalk to their home he began, "Sheridan, honey, um, I had a second breakfast with Antonio and, well, he says things aren't going to good right now."
"Oh no, Luis that's too bad. Business isn't what he expected." Sheridan was sympathetic. "Does he need money, I'd be happy to. . ." Luis shot her the look. "Oops, sorry, I know how sensitive you Lopez Fitzgeralds are about that. Well, what can we do."
"It's bad baby. He's going to have to sell his house to pay off the debts of the Agency. He's suspending business. The worst part is he's not too thrilled about moving in with Mama - privacy and all."
"Mnn, ouch" she agreed. "Well, invite him to stay with us. Each room has it's own bath, he could come and go as he pleases. Entertain who ever he wants to. It's not like we use the suite over the garage. He can have it today, if he'll take it."
"I tried. He said no but I was hoping you would try instead. He said he'd be in the way with the new babies and all. But sweetie, don't take this the wrong way, Antonio is a sucker for big blue eyes. The way I figure it, he wouldn't deny those beautiful blue eyes of yours anything you asked him to do for us." Luis hated lying to her like this but it was the only way. "Especially if you ask him to watch out for you - make it seem like he's helping us while I'm at work."
"Protect the old macho pride?!" Sheridan laughed. "Do I need to invite him for dinner or did you already?"
"He'll be over at 6." Luis replied. "I love you Mrs Lopez Fitzgerald."
"I love you too." They continued their walk arm in arm.
At dinner, Luis and Antonio worked their conn. Sheridan fell for it hook line and sinker. "Antonio, I need to ask you a favour," she said as Luis left the deck to grab something from the kitchen. "Please, I don't want to worry Luis, but, I think I may have the answer to both our problems. I'm feeling kind of edgy. Especially as the time gets closer. I know we have great neighbours but, I'm getting nervous about being here alone so much.
Trinity is great company, but, I'd feel better if you would consider, just consider, taking the suite of rooms over the garage, just temporarily. Please? It would let you get back on your feet financially and I wouldn't have to add to Luis' worry about me.." Sheridan turned on the water works a bit. "Please, promise you'll think about it?"
"Think about what?" Luis asked as he set the bowl down. "Babe, are you okay. Sheridan, what is it honey?"
"She's cool Luis, it's just hormones, you know how women get when they're expecting." He winked at Sheridan. "Bro, is that invite to live over the garage still open?"
"Sure, you changed your mind." Luis winked at him. "Sheridan, do you care if Antonio moves in for a while."
"You're always welcome here Antonio. Always." Sheridan squeezed his hand across the table.
Luis' plan had worked perfectly and Ethan couldn't have been happier. "I hated conning her Cynthia, but Luis was right, we had to get somebody there to protect her as soon as possible. Without upsetting her."
"I just think you should tell her what's going on! Sheridan's an adult. She knew that David was unbalanced. He is the prime suspect isn't he?"
"Yeah, this is text book stalker stuff. It seems cliche but I believe David is behind this. I just wish I knew where he got his information."
"What did Sam find out?"
"I talked to him today. David hasn't resurface since Sheridan fired him. It's like he vanished from the face of the earth. Dad is going to keep checking?"
"Ethan, honey, do realize what you just did?'
"Huh?"
"You referred to Sam Bennet as Dad."
"Yeah, I guess I did."
\-\
Eve smiled at Sheridan and Luis. "Heart beats are strong. Sheridan, you're doing great. I'd like to see the blood pressure come down a tad, you're in a dangerous range. This is a warning young lady. Pamper yourself. Keep your feet elevated, swim, but not too much walking. I'd like to see those two stay put for a couple more weeks. How be we schedule that amnio for a week Friday?"
"Just tell me where and when and I'll get them there." Luis replied helping Sheridan down from the exam table.
"I'll set it up." Eve smiled. "So, have you got everything ready?"
"My labour bag is packed. The cribs are being delivered later today, Luis conned his brother into painting with him yesterday - Trinity's tail is a bit mauve. .
" Sheridan laughed at Eve's questioning look. "Luis tried to tickle me as payback for the ice cube I stuck down his shirt to cool him off, I screeched so Trinity stepped in between us and got a tail full of paint fo her trouble. Poor puppy."
"I get an ice cube down my shirt and she feels sorry for the dog! See what I put up with Eve?"
"My heart bleeds Luis," Eve replied. "Take care you two.
\-\
His brandy sniffer was full. His cigar was lit. He should have been happy. He wasn't - she hadn't lost everything she'd ever cared about. At least not yet. He stared at the picture of her. The one with that low life goon's arms around her and threw it up against the wall shattering it to pieces. "Pay back is a bitch,
sister dear, time to go into full gear." It was well past time for his sister to feel the same heartbreak he had endured. He picked up the phone and dialled. He spoke only two words, "David, execute." The wheels were set in motion. Nothing would stop his plan now.
\-\
David Reid set down the phone and looked around the house with a contented sigh. It was an exact duplicate of the one Sheridan had built for her and Luis. Except she wouldn't share it with that Neanderthal. He would be her husband. This was going to be perfect. He reached for the wedding photo on the mantel. It was Sheridan, wearing Grandmother Fitzgerald's gown, except it wasn't Luis in the picture. His own smiling face stared back at him. It was show time. He was destined to be with Sheridan Crane, she just needed some convincing. Well, he could be very convincing.
Luis stood in his kitchen with Antonio. "Still nothing bro, I wish I had better news. I want this bastard." Antonio kept his voice low. Luis had convinced Sheridan to lie down for a bit. Her back was tender and her feet were swelling up again.
"Get in line. I just want five minutes alone with him. Let me guess, another package arrived today didn't it."
"Yeah, another black rose. One a day everyday. I've managed to intercept them thank God. Don't you think you should tell her. She has a right to know."
"I can't. Her blood pressure is too high. I can't add to her stress. Antonio I don't know what I'd do if anything happened to her bro. She's everything man. Everything."
"That's written all over your face every time you look at her. It'll be okay. I got your back, my guys have the house under surveillance 24/7 - nothing's going to happen to your lady or your kids, I promise."
"Thanks Anton." Luis said grabbing a soda from the fridge and throwing one to his brother.
"LUIS," Sheridan's voice screamed from upstairs.
He and Antonio ran up the stairs two at a time. He found her in tears in the nursery. It was trashed. Black paint sprayed on the walls read, "Once a Crane always a Crane" and "Never Sheridan, Never" and "Did you think I would allow this?"
She was in tears crumpled in a ball. "I decided I wanted to sit in the rocking chair for a few minutes, read a bit, I wasn't really sleepy so. Luis, how could he. My father how could he have done this. He's in solitary, no visitors no, ooh!" She grabbed her abdomen in pain.
"Call an ambulance Anton and Eve. I'm taking you to the hospital, no arguments."
Luis gathered Sheridan in his arms and carried her down the stairs to the living room. He settled her on the couch.
"Luis, my head hurts, too. God Luis, why can't he just leave me alone. Why is my father like this. Why. I.." She burst into tears and clung to him.
"I don't know honey. But he's wrong. Everything is going to be fine. You and me and our babies, we're going to live happily ever after in this house. Trust me."
The ambulance technicians arrived and loaded her onto a stretcher. Luis didn't even look at them. He held Sheridan's hand. The senior of the two said, "Dr. Russell said she'd meet you at the hospital sir. We can't take the dog sir."
Trinity began to bark and growl. She wouldn't allow the technician to evict her from the ambulance.
"Please," Sheridan said softly. "Just for the trip to the hospital. Then my husband can take her home. Trinity NO." The dog stood possessively at her side.
"There's no time to argue." The other tech said. "Bring it." Luis went to climb in back with her. "I'm sorry sir, you have to travel separately, Regulations." He shut the door in Luis' face.
After curtly murmuring "Trinity, stay with Sheridan." Luis climbed in his car to follow the ambulance, as he sped out his driveway, a pick up truck appeared out of nowhere sideswiping him. "Damn," he cursed as the ambulance pulled out of sight. "I don't have time for this!" He stormed to the driver's side of the
pickup. All the colour drained from his face: the pick up truck's cab was empty. It had been operated by remote control !!"
Antonio rushed up behind him in time to hear his brother scream, "SHERIDAN !!!"
To Be Continued...
Chapter 23:
Trinity barked furiously in the back of the ambulance. "Lady, shut that mutt up or so help me I'll toss it out before we get where we're going!"
"What's taking so long, we should be at Harmony Memorial by now?" Sheridan felt confused and nauseous. "What's in this IV, God where are you taking me?"
\-\
Antonio grabbed Luis by the shoulders. "Luis, relax, my guys will be tailing them. Hop in the jeep."
Antonio's cell phone rang. "Thanks, keep the line open," he said throwing the phone on the seat beside him. They're on route 24" Luis saw Eve running toward them on the sidewalk and smacked his brother's shoulder. The jeep pulled over and Eve got in.
"It wasn't paramedics. I don't know who they were but," Luis said anxiously. "They've got Sheridan." Eve nodded and reached into her purse.
"This is Doctor Russell, I need an air ambulance with two neo natal care units. Yes TWO. On stand by. I'll forward the location." She spoke curtly and efficiently. Luis found her presence calming. He hadn't felt like this since her 'death' at Christmas.
"Please God, Please." He whispered, "keep them safe. Keep my family safe."
Antonio's men tailed the ambulance. Suddenly a black sedan pulled out, the driver sideswiped them. The cars crashed together each fighting to stay on the pavement but it was no use. Sheridan's best hope for rescue - tumbled into the ditch. The ambulance pulled up to the secluded duplicate of Sheridan's home. The attendants tried to unload the stretcher but Trinity went ballistic. She wouldn't let them leave anywhere near Sheridan. Julian appeared.
"Well Sheridan dear, don't you look positively maternal!" He said sarcastically. "A virtual Madonna with child. No Children." Trinity lunged toward Julian. "Shut that mangey animal up or I will!!" He drew a silver antique gun.
"Trinity NO!!!" Sheridan cried. The dog instantly stopped barking but stayed right at her side. Sheridan struggled to sit up. Her head was pounding and she felt terribly dizzy. Sheridan drew on all her inner reserves of strength and stood. David Reid appeared and helped her out of the back of the ambulance. "Why am I not surprised to see him?" She thought to herself. She doubled over in pain.
"Stop the theatric's Sister Dear," Julian muttered. "We know you're not due for another four weeks."
"Yes darling," David said. "We have lots of time to get ready for our baby. Come inside, I want to get you all settled." Sheridan realized what was happening, David's delusions were part of Julian's plan!
"Trinity, GO," Sheridan called. "Luis, get Luis, I need Luis!" The dog took off at her fastest run. Julian took aim and Sheridan bumped up against his arm.
Julian's shot grazed Trinity's back and she yelped out in pain. The animal continued to run undaunted. "Somebody, get rid of that damn dog."
"You'll regret that Sheridan." He whispered. "I was planning on just selling your brats, now . . . "
Mercifully Sheridan fainted.
\-\
Antonio's men signalled. Their car was in the ditch, obviously having been forced off the road. Luis jumped out of the car with Eve. She began checking their injuries.
"A black sedan, it came out of nowhere, she can't be far ahead. Just go. We'll be okay sir."
Antonio nodded. "I'm calling the local authorities - we'll start a search."
"There's no time!" Luis was getting frantic. "She needs medical attention. NOW" Luis was shocked. A chocolate Labrador wobbled toward him. She was shaky - and bleeding but she was headed right to him. "Damn Trinity?"
The dog stumbled toward him. He caressed the animal which licked his hand. "Eve, she's been hurt. It's a gun shot wound!" Eve pulled some water from her bag and poured it into her hand. The dog lapped it up and began leading Luis up the trail. Luis tried holding her still so that Eve could stop the bleeding but the dog did a 180 and kept taking a few steps, then, turning again. Luis looked at his brother.
Antonio began to ask, "You don't think?"
"Yeah Anton, she knows. Okay girl, take me to Sheridan."
Luis, Antonio and Eve flanked by Antonio's two operatives followed the dog through the trees without a word. Luis prayed again, "Please God, not too far."
\-\
Sheridan woke up slowly terribly disoriented. She was in her own room? How? She saw Julian's face and knew it hadn't been a nightmare. "We wanted you to be comfortable, dear. In friendly surroundings when you give birth."
Sheridan tried not to panic. Her prenatal classes had prepared her for labour pain, but the throbbing in her temples scared her. "What were the symptoms of advanced toxemia again?" she wondered to herself. Sheridan felt a hard cramp in her abdomen and a tightness in her back. She couldn't hide her discomfort.
"Darling," David said, "those Branxton Hicks must be getting intense. Why don't I get you a hot water bottle?" He left the room.
Sheridan grabbed Julian by the tie. "These aren't Branxton Hicks, you bastard. I need a doctor. Now. I know you hate me and Luis - I know you blame us for all you lost but these babies are innocent."
"Sins of the father," Julian replied tugging himself free of her grip. "You left me on my own sister dear, alone, stripped of everything I ever held dear," he leaned in and delivered his next words in a whisper, "see how you like it." Julian left the room as David reappeared. "See you later David. Have a nice day Sheridan."
"Damn you Julian. !!" Sheridan screamed in pain as the next contraction overcame her. Her mind raced. 'How far apart are they? Please Luis, HURRY. I NEED YOU!'
As Julian exited the house, his jaw connected with Luis' fist. Luis grabbed his brother-in-law by the throat then heard his wife's scream of pain and terror. "You're not worth it." He said throwing Julian roughly against the wall.
Antonio pulled Julian to his feet. "You know scumbag, he's right, you're not worth it!" Then, as an after thought Antonio added, "But Sheridan is." Antonio's right cross shattered the bone in Julian's jaw. Antonio's operatives cuffed Julian and called for help.
Eve rushed in after Luis. David screamed at them, "What are you doing in my home? My wife isn't feeling well, Please, she needs to rest."
Luis threw him aside and Antonio held him down. Luis and Eve rushed to Sheridan, "Babe, it's okay, Eve and I are here." He caressed her forehead. She was very weak. Trinity plopped on the floor at the foot of the bed.
"Luis, I knew you'd come," her voice was raw and her complexion white. Another contraction ripped through her body.
"Sheridan, honey, you're having contractions, you have to concentrate for me, how far apart are they?"
"I tried to count between them, maybe 120 second, I'm not sure. Eve, my head too, I feel . . . "
"Luis, that's the high blood pressure. Try and keep her calm while I examine her."
"It's okay babe," Luis whispered gently rubbing the sweat from her brow. The next contraction made Sheridan arch her back off the bed. "We better decide on some names huh?" Luis tried to keep the desperation out of his voice. They heard the chopper over head. A flight surgeon, a nurse and a paramedic arrived in the room.
"Doctor Russell, I'm Doctor Raine," a man with greying hair spoke first. The paramedics pulled two neo natal units up the stairs. "What's the situation?"
"Her labour is progressing rapidly. She's fully dilated. I was about to encourage pushing. The patient is at approximately 36 weeks. Her BP is 210 over 180. She's complaining of head ache and dizziness."
The delivery went quickly, Sheridan and Luis' son was born after less than fifteen minutes of pushing. Sheridan began to slip away. "Sheridan," Eve gently slapped her hand. "Sheridan, stay with us now, I know you're tired." Dr. Raine and a nurse tended to the premmie.
"He's breathing well," the Doctor called.
"Thank God," Luis whispered. He caressed Sheridan's cheek. "He'll be okay, babe," he placed a gentle peck on the back of the hand she was clenching tightly.
"BP has risen to 220 over 195," the nurse reported.
"Luis," Eve looked up at him. He appeared calm but Eve knew better. "She's too exhausted to deliver this baby naturally. There's no way of telling how long it might take. I have to operate."
"You're going to do an emergency C-section?" Doctor Raine asked. "Here, in these conditions?"
"Do you have any other ideas?" Eve asked looking to him for confirmation.
"No, she could stroke at that BP. And then we'd lose them both."
"Luis?" Eve looked for his consent. He nodded.
"Sheridan, honey, we have to put you under . . . " he tried to explain to her.
"Not yet," she said knocking the mask away from her face. "Promise me, you'll stay with the babies, Promise me, Julian and Alistair have spies ever where. My babies will need their daddy to keep them safe. Please, Promise me, You won't let them out of your sight!""
"I won't leave you Sheridan, You need me." He stroked her forehead.
"Promise me. The babies, promise me Luis!"
"All Right. I won't let the babies out of my sight!" He swore to her. "Just rest baby."
Luis waited outside the door as the two doctors worked to deliver his daughter. He stared at his son who was in the neonatal care bed. The nurse assured Luis, his son was safe. Sheridan and Luis' daughter was born in a text book Cesarean. Sheridan's blood pressure began to fall. It had been close but this family would be spared further heartbreak on this day. One of the paramedics agreed to ride back to Harmony with Antonio so that Luis could accompany his family and the doctors in the chopper. Luis and Sheridan's daughter was a strong as her brother. Both babies would be fine.
"Luis," Sheridan whispered as she came out of the anaesthetic. "Luis, our babies?"
"Are right here with their beautiful Mommy." He nodded to the two bassinettes beside her bed. Luis kissed her gently on the lips. "How are you feeling?" He asked as he pressed the buzzer for the nurse. "My wife is awake." The nursing station promised to send for Dr. Russell. "Now, beautiful, I asked you a question: how are you feeling?
"Tired. Both babies, are they okay?" She was still worried.
Eve responded from the doorway. "They have their father's courage and their mother's strength. They're going to be just fine."
"Eve, thank you. For everything." Sheridan smiled up at her doctor and friend. "You have been so good to us."
"Well, I think Dr. Raine deserves some credit too." Eve smiled back at her. "Luis, I think those children would probably like to be introduced to their mother. If she's up to hold them?"
"UP TO IT?" Sheridan demanded. "I've waited for this for months!"
Gingerly Luis picked up his daughter first. Sheridan had seen her son for an instant before the surgery. "Baby girl Lopez Fitzgerald, this is your Mama."
"Louisa Evelyn," Sheridan whispered. "I am so glad to see you, sweet heart!" Sheridan snuggled her daughter. "Now where's your brother?" Sheridan shifted the baby to one side as Luis passed her their son.
"I take it you just named our baby girl without me?" Luis wore his thousand watt smile. "Aren't you worried that having a Luis and a Louisa in the house could get confusing someday?"
"I think I'll be able to tell you apart! She'll never need a shave?" Sheridan teased him caressing his five o'clock shadow-covered cheek. "NOW, pass me that baby boy - if you know what's good for you."
"Any ideas about his name?" Luis asked softly. He kissed Sheridan's forehead. She looked tired and weak, but the joy pouring out of her face more than made up for it. She was beautiful.
"Just one, " Sheridan said softly. "Do you think Ethan and Sam wound mind if?" She was a little nervous about it.
"Will mind what?" Ethan stood in the doorway. "Sheridan, can we come in. Are you up to seeing us? We'll come back later maybe?"
"Get in here. ALL OF YOU." Sheridan called to the door. Pilar sat beside her on the bed and held her first grandchildren for the first time. The whole Lopez Fitzgerald Family, the Bennett Family, Ethan and Cynthia, who held Trinity's leash, entered the room.
"So, what are these beautiful babies names mijo?" Pilar asked hugging her son and passing her grandchildren back to their mother.
"Mama, my wife insists that our daughter's name is Louisa." Luis smiled. "I can't talk her out of it."
"And, our son is Bennett Antonio." Sheridan answered quietly. "Ben for short. I want to celebrate the best friends and family I could ever have wished for. TRINITY, puppy, you're here too. And you're okay?" The dog barked affirmatively. And jumped up placing two paws on the side of her bed.
"She's fine." Cynthia replied. "Desperate to see you, but fine."
Sheridan stroked the dogs ears. Luis wiped away a tear from the corner of Sheridan's eye. "She led me right to you. If she hadn't.."
"No what ifs," Sheridan said firmly. "This family of four," the dog growled, "Sorry Trinity, FIVE, we're fine. All of us."
Eve kept Sheridan in hospital (under high security thanks to Sam) for almost a week to recover from her surgery and to make sure the babies learned to breast feed in an established pattern.
David Reid was admitted to a psychiatric hospital - the doctors hoped the mind control drugs he'd been given could be counter acted. Only time would tell.
Slowly life in Harmony fell into a routine. Luis and Sheridan loved their life as parents flanked by loving friends and an extended family. They all knew heartbreak was inevitable in life, but it was a life they would treasure.
THE END....FINALLY