Shooting Star

Chapter 1:

Sheridan and Luis were standing in the moonlight, which was casting a wonderful glow on the round belly Sheridan was slowly obtaining. She was five months pregnant and so excited to be just that. “Oh my” Sheridan said. “Sher, what are you okay, should I call Dr. Russell?” Luis exclaimed in panic. “No silly the baby just kicked for the first time. Come on over here and feel.” Luis who was already over there wrapped his arms around Sher and pulled her to him, resting his hands on her belly. Sher took one of the hands and put it to where the baby was kicking. Sheridan sighed contently wrapped in Luis strong safe arms. “Wow look there goes a shooting star Luis! I have never seen one of them.”

“Well, you do know the way these things go don’t you? Close your eyes and make a wish and don’t tell a single soul what you wished or it will not come true.” Sheridan closed her eyes and began to wish. ‘I wish my family would leave Luis and me alone, so that we can be happy together forever. After watching Sher close her eyes, Luis closed his and thought. ‘All I want to wish for is that Sher and I get to stay together forever and have a large family and a wonderful life.’ Sheridan and Luis went in the house to head to bed since the next day held many things for them.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Sheridan woke up to the sound of the birds chirping. She rolled over to look at Luis but soon realized he was not there. ‘Hmmmm….I wonder where he could be.’ Then, in came Luis from behind her. “Morning gorgeous, how are you and my beautiful baby doing this morning?” “Well, we are both doing fine, even though, we are a little hungry. Whatcha got there?” “Well it might be just a little snack for my two favorite people. I wonder where they went to.” “Hey” Sheridan playfully punched him across the butt. Luis set the tray down and unveiled what was underneath. It was a plate full of Belgium Waffles with tons of ripe juicy strawberries and white fluffy whipped cream. Sheridan and Luis began sharing the food together. They took turns feeding each other.

“Sher, honey you got something on your lip, let me help you get it off.” He leaned over and kissed her passionately and slowly let his tongue delve into her mouth exploring all the curves and dips. She tasted like sweet sugar to him. Sher tried to pull him closer to her but he pulled away and said, “No you have to finish eating first.” “Fine” They both went back to feeding each other. Sheridan began to notice that Luis was staying on the one side of the plate and was about to say something about it when she hit something hard.

“Ummmm….. Luis, honey, what did you put in there waffles, it feels like cement.” “Just keep eating sweetheart there is nothing wrong.” Sheridan kept eating to finally find a thin long box that was nicely wrapped up. “Oh, Luis what is this for?” “Uh ho how did that get in there that was supposed to be for the lady that I will love forever? Now where could she be? Oh there she is.” Sheridan began to slowly take off the paper; she lifted the lid and gasped. There lay a beautiful charm bracelet with three charms on it.

Sheridan had tears in her eyes as she looked up to Luis and said, “Thank you, I love you, too.” “Your welcome sweetie now let me explain what each charm means. The connected hearts are showing how much we love each other. The baby with the peridot birthstone in the middle is for our baby, since he or she will be born in August and the ice skates are to show what we did on our first date as a couple. And this (kiss) is (kiss) to (kiss) show (kiss) you (kiss) how (kiss) much (kiss) I (kiss) Love (kiss kiss) you (heart stopping kiss).

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Alistair Crane was sitting at his desk while his daughter and the town cop made sweet passionate love. It made him sick. He had to do something to stop this treachery of a marriage. He dialed the line to the main house as quickly as his raging mind would let him. “Julian, what in the world are you doing? You should be doing something to break up your sister and that town cop husband of hers. I don’t care what you have to do. Kill one of them if necessary, and do it quickly. If you don’t break them up, you will be very, very, sorry.” “Yes Fa… (The phone line went dead)…..well that does it. I can’t take it anymore.” Julian picks up the phone and dials a number that is oblivious to the normal numbers he calls. “Hello, yes it is time for our plan to be put into action. Yes that is right that is the one I am talking about.”

Julian then hit the speed dial button to call down to the cottage where his sister and brother-in-law were. Sheridan answered the phone since Luis was at work. “Hello the Lopez-Fitzgerald’s, Sheridan speaking. Oh Hello Julian what can I do for you?” “Yes, sister-dear, I need you to help me with this plan I am formulating to kill our father. And before you say one single word, let me tell you that our father has about two million video cameras stashed in your house. He watched you and Luis have tons of fun this morning. So don’t say anything that will tip him off that we are planning this. He is probably watching you now. Will you and Luis meet me at the Seascape at 6:30; I will be sitting off in a corner that doesn’t look suspicious. Bye, I will see you later.”

“Hmmm...What in the world is my wonderful brother up to now? He is always so mean and annoying to me but, this time he was serious. I should go down to the Station and talk to Luis about everything since I can’t talk about it on the phone with him here.” Sheridan went in the bathroom and got her shower and got dressed. She decided to put on a light blue sundress and hit just below her knees. She French braided her hair back partially and put in two light blue rhinestone clips. On her feet she put on black slip on sandals. For the final touch she added her brand new charm bracelet that she had received this morning. Finally, she grabbed her white cardigan and left.

Down at the police station Luis was just finishing up from filing some of the crimes he had finished lately, when he heard Sheridan out in the main office with Sam. They were discussing something so Luis decided to let Sheridan come in his office when she was ready. He went back to work for not more than five minutes when his door opened and a smiling beautiful female walked in the door. “Sher…..what are you doing here?” He said as he began walking over to her. “Oh, just coming in to see my favorite detective in the world.” She replied giggling as Luis swept her up and began placing tiny kisses all around her neck. Luis stopped suddenly as he heard what she said.

“ARE YOU TEASING ME?” “Nope, Sam just told me now.” “Oh Sher, I Love you so much already and now I love you even more. I was wondering what you and Sam were discussing out there when I saw you come in.” Luis picked Sheridan up and spun here around and kissed her passionately until the ringing of Luis Office Phone interrupted them. He put her down and pulled her into his lap as he sat down to answer the call. Sher laid her head against Luis’ chest while she began to wonder. ‘

How am I going to explain about Julian? There is no way that Luis will sit down to dinner with Julian. He can’t even stand to be around him when we are at the house visiting Pilar when she is working in the mansion. Oh, well I guess I will just tell him straight out.’ Luis hung up the phone and rested his chin on top of Sheridan’s. “Luis?” She began. “Julian called this morning. We need to be extremely careful with what we do and say. Father had our whole cottage bugged with listening devices and cameras. In fact, he watched us all morning while we made love. Tonight we are supposed to meet Julian at the Seascape for dinner and so we can discuss the plan to bring down Alistair.”

“Sher what are you talking about? We just had the whole cottage searched top to bottom right after Rodger and Pierre were caught just to check for the bugs and things the might have used. They didn’t even find any fingerprints let alone any other listening devices.” “Honey, I know but I just hung up with Julian and he could see me and everything I was doing.” “Fine, if it will make you happy we can go as long as we go a little bit early cause I want to spend some time dancing with my wife.”

“Yes we can, but now I have to go. I promised Ethan and Theresa that I would watch baby Anna and Emma. They are going to the stores and needed to spend some alone time. So, I offered to watch them for awhile. I told them I would be there at noon so I really have to get going.” “Okay I will see you around five to get ready.” They kissed and said their goodbyes. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* Sheridan made it to Ethan and Theresa house at a quarter to 12. When she walked in the door Ethan was sitting on the couch holding Anna, who was sleeping peacefully.

She whispered Hello to him and he motioned upstairs while mouthing the word Theresa. Sheridan hung her coat in the closet along with her purse and headed upstairs to help Theresa with Emma. When she got to the top of the steps she could her Theresa sing to Emma while Emma continued to scream. Sheridan headed toward the room where Theresa and Emma were. She walked over to Theresa and picked up Emma. “Theresa, go finish getting ready and then you can talk to me. Ethan is very anxious about getting out with you. Hey, and by the way Anna fell right to sleep in his arms so you don’t need to worry about her right now.” Sheridan told her.

“Thanks Sher, I won’t be long. I just need to change and do my hair.” Theresa replied. Sheridan took Emma over to the window and began to soothingly talk to her. Emma soon began to drift off to dreamland. Sher began to sway with her lightly in her arms and soon Emma was sleeping peacefully. Sheridan didn’t want to disturb her so she grabbed a blanket with her free hand and cover Emma in her arms. Then, she headed downstairs. On the way she met Theresa who was finally dressed and ready to go. “Thank God you finally got her to fall asleep. She is so hard to get to sleep ever since we found out she was colic. Sometimes I am up till three in the morning just rocking her. Ethan goes to bed with out me so many times it is not even funny anymore. At first he didn’t seem to be bothered but after a couple weeks he is starting to get angry.”

“Well, how about tonight Luis and I take the girls for the rest of the week and you and Ethan can spend that time alone.” “Sher you don’t have to do that.” “Really Theresa I want to you and Ethan have done so much for Luis and me it is unbelievable.” “Are you sure, Sher, they are a lot of work especially Emma with her colic and all.” “Theresa it will only be for a couple of days. Luis and I can handle it. Look, tonight we are going to go out to dinner but we can stop by and pick the girls up when we are done around nine. Is that okay?” “Yeah sure that is fine. Thank you so much Sher and tell Luis we said thank you too. Ethan and I may be able to get some much need sleep.” They headed downstairs. When Ethan saw them coming, he stood up and laid Anna in the playpen and covered her up with her blankie. Ethan walked over to Theresa and wrapped his arms around her from behind. Theresa began to give Sher directions.

“Okay, they both just fell asleep so they should sleep for a long time especially Emma. When they get up just give them each a bottle. Anna’s are pink and Emma’s are purple since Emma’s has special vitamins in them. The stroller is on the back porch if you want to go for a walk. Sometimes that helps calm Emma. Anna is pretty much used to her crying all the time but she still get frustrated sometimes. You know where everything is at upstairs. There are extra binkies in the bottom draw of Emma’s and Anna’s dresser. You might want to take a few in case they decide the throw them if you go for a walk. If you can’t get Emma……” Ethan spun Theresa around and, sees as the only way to stop her ranting, gave her an extremely passionate kiss.

“Honey calm down they will be fine Sher has our cell phone numbers and anyway nothing is going to go wrong. If you don’t stop giving her directions we are never going to get to go. So come on and they will be fine.” “Oh, Ethan you are right. Sorry Sher, this is the first time we have actually done something with out taking them along.” “It’s okay Theresa, just go and have fun, we will be fine here. Theresa and Ethan finally left. Sheridan settled in the rocker with Emma and began to slowly rock back in forth, lost deep in her thoughts. She soon fell asleep with her head resting lightly on top of Emma’s. She woke up to the feel of someone kissing her forehead. “Luis…….What are you doing here?” She replied sleepily.

“Honey how long have you been sleeping? It is already two o’clock. It is my lunch hour and I wanted to come see my favorite lady and three of my favorite little kids.” Luis said while resting his hand on Sheridan’s tummy. He went to go take Emma out of her arms but she began to stir so Luis backed away. Sheridan switched arms since the one she was holding Emma in was numb. They both heard a tiny whimper and realized Anna had woken up. Luis headed over to her. He picked her up and started talking to her in baby talk. Sheridan began to think about what a great father that Luis will be to their baby. “Luis, Theresa said to give them a bottle. Anna’s should be the pink ones. I am not going to wake Emma up until she does wake up. Theresa said they can hardly get her to sleep at all.”

“Okay, angel, we will be right back.” He bent down and gave her a sweet kiss. Then, he headed into the kitchen to heat up her bottle. “Well, Miss Emma Lynn, you just keep sleeping your little heart out. You aren’t going to miss anything. You just need to start letting your mommy and daddy sleep a little bit more at night. I wonder how come you are sleeping so much now. Your mommy and daddy are going to be jealous.” “Why would they be jealous of you, Angel?”

“Well, probably, because their daughter has been sleeping since they left and when they are around she doesn’t sleep at all. Oh, Luis, Theresa was saying earlier that she and Ethan never get to go to bed together anymore, so I told her we would take the twins for the rest of the week, so they could spend some time together. I hope that is okay with you honey. I know how much you love spending time around the twins and it will be good for me to be around them for a long period of time. I told them that we would pick them up when we are done with our dinner at the Seascape around nine.”

“Of course it is okay with me, you and I both love being with these two. Well, Anna is done with her bottle; I still have at least over a half an hour left. Do you want to go for a walk with these two? We could put them both in the stroller.” “Yeah that will be great. Do you want to take Emma and get her settled in the stroller? I will take Anna up and change her. It will probably be easier to get Emma in the stroller if Anna is not in there yet. The stroller is on the back porch.” “Yeah that is fine. Here give me Emma first. (They swap babies.) Okay come on Miss Emma. Let’s go get ready for a walk.” They both parted and Sheridan took Anna upstairs and changed her diaper and got her ready. She grabbed a few of the binkies Theresa was talking about and threw that and some diapers, wipes, and blankets in one of the baby bags.

She went down and met Luis. They took their walk and brought the girls back. Luis went back to work and Anna went back to sleep while Emma never made a peep. Sher got up and began to straighten up for Theresa. She managed to put everything away and did the dishes for her. By that time it was 3:30 and Sher settled down and waited for Theresa and Ethan to get home. They returned at four and asked how everything went. “Well, Emma has been sleeping the whole time. She hasn’t woke up at all and I even ended making sure she was breathing a couple of times. Anna woke up around 12 and had her bottle. Luis came to visit on his lunch break and we took them for a walk and then we came home and they both went back to sleep. I also cleaned up for you Theresa.”

“Wow, I hope Emma is okay. She hasn’t slept like this since the night we brought them home from the hospital. You must have the magic touch Sher. Thank you so much for watching them and for cleaning.” “Oh you’re welcome but now I have to go and get ready for dinner. We will be back to pick them up around nine. Well, talk to you later.” Sher told them. “Come Sher I will drive you home.” Replied Ethan. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

When Sheridan got home, she took all of her things and put them in the spare bedroom that had the bathroom attached. She wanted her new dress to be a surprise to Luis. Then, she went and looked in on the room that the twins would be sleeping in. It was the new babies’ room. Luis and Ethan had finished the room last week. She knew it was a little bit early but she wanted everything done before the baby shower. There was a fairy tale border on the walls and the crib was dark brown and it had white sheets with Peter Rabbit on it. The baby shower was scheduled to be in one month. Sher took the bassinet and put it in her and Luis’ room. She figured Emma could sleep with them and Anna could sleep in the babies’ room. That way if Emma was up all night Anna could still sleep. She heard Luis coming in downstairs and realized it was five o’clock already.

They had to be ready to leave at six. She went down and told Luis that she was going to get ready in the spare bedroom so they could get done quicker. “Sher, I was looking forward to taking a shower with you.” Luis wined. “Hey you are the one who wanted to go dancing first. Now we have to be ready for six. So, no coed-showers for us today.” She replied with a smirk. She went down to the guest bathroom and got her shower. When she came out, she painted her toes and fingers with a red that matched her dress. After she finished her nails, she curled her golden blonde hair. She was going to leave it all down but she decided to pull the sides back with her red rhinestone clips. She took the special gold glitter hair spray and sprayed her hair so that it would glitter more than usual. Then she put on her pantyhose and her dress.

Her dress was a bright red that was covered in glitter and in the back it laced up in a crisscross way. She slipped her feet in to her red dress shoes. Finally, she added her matching jewelry and her new charm bracelet from Luis. Just as she was clipping her bracelet clasp, she noticed the door handle turning. “Oh, no you don’t Luis. You are not seeing me until we leave and as of right now we have twelve more minutes. Go down and check to see if everything is ready for the girls tonight. I checked earlier but I may not have gotten everything.” She told Luis. “Okay sweetheart, I will be in the car in ten minutes ready to leave.” Luis told her.

“Okay!” She replied. She did a once over of herself and put on the perfume that Luis always likes her to wear. By that time her ten minutes were almost up. She grabbed her purse and headed out to the car. Luis was waiting by the door so he could see her. As he sees her, his breath catches in his throat. She looks so beautiful in red and he can’t begin to imagine what will happen when they get home tonight. He goes and meets her at the bottom of the staircase. “Sher, honey, you look amazing. I am at a lost for words right now.” After hearing him say this Sheridan gets tears in her eyes. Luis sees this and pulls her into a hug. “Sweetheart, what’s wrong?” He asks her. She lays her head onto his chest and takes a deep breath.

“I don’t know, I guess I am just worried about tonight. I mean what if Julian is only doing this to make us not see what they are actually going to do to us. I couldn’t bear to live without you. I mean just to think about falling asleep each night without you holding me or waking up without you being there or even you not being around to comfort and love me. If something would happen to you and I would be left alone, I don’t think I could go on living.” As she says all this, her tears come down harder and harder and she can barely talk. Luis sat down on the staircase and pulled her into his lap. He began to rock her and stroke her hair until she calmed down some.

When her sobs slow to a sniffle, Luis starts to talk. “Sher, baby nothing is ever going to happen to take me away from you. I WON”T let it happen. I can promise you that. I would feel the same way if you were ever not around, but that isn’t going to happen. Now, about tonight, if you are that unsure about this whole situation maybe we shouldn’t even go. Which reminds me we aren’t supposed to be talking about this in the house? If you still want to go, we need to go out in the car and sit, but look I promise you nothing will ever happen to break us apart. Do you still want to go?” She nods her head slightly. “Okay let’s go out to the car.” They stand up and he pulls her into one last hug before they head to the car. They head out to the car, when they get to the car, he goes around and opens her door and helps her in. He goes around to his side and gets in the car.

After he got in the car and pulled her close to him again. “Sher, look at me. (She keeps her head against his chest but looks in his eyes.) You know we don’t have to do this. I know this is hard for you. I mean you don’t even get along with Julian and now he wants to help you bring down your father. I do want you to know something before you decide though. I love you and will always be by your side no matter what you chose. I will let nothing happen to tear us apart, and when I say that I mean it.” “Oh, Luis I love you too. I just don’t want to put our love in danger or put our life’s on the line. How about this, we can go to the dinner with Julian tonight and watch what happens. Then we can decide if we should continue on with the plan” “I agree with you Sher, that way we can protect ourselves too.” They kissed and then Luis started the engine and, Sheridan decided to turn on the radio.

You can say you love me
And I'll believe that's true
Trusting you is easy
'Cause I believe in you
And there is nothing that I would miss
As long as we're in love like this

Sheridan slid over to Luis and laid her head on his shoulder. He wrapped his arm around her and continued to drive. She closed her eyes and then listened to the words of the song, realizing how much they fit her and Luis’ life right now.

All I have is all I need
and it all comes down to you and me
How far away the world becomes
in the harbor of each others arms
I feel like I've known you
Forever and ever
Darling, that's how close we are
Right here with you is where
my life has come together
And love has filled my heart
And you know that I'd go anywhere
As long as I've got you to care
All I have is all I need

And it all comes down to you and me
How far away the world becomes
In harbor of each other's arms
--And with the love you bring
I never want for anything
I've found what I've been searching for in you--

All I have is all I need
And it all comes down to you and me
How far away the world becomes
In the harbor of each other's arms
(All I Have by Beth Neilson Chapman)

Luis looked down at Sheridan and said. “Sher, you are all I will ever need. Don’t you ever forget that?” “I know Luis and you are all I will ever need also.” By this time they were almost to the Seascape and Sheridan began to get nervous again. Luis pulled into the parking lot and looked down at Sheridan. She had begun to get that sad, nervous look that she had gotten before. “Sher are you sure you want to do this? Seriously we don’t have to. We can go home and pick up Anna and Emma, and take them back to the house. Now, tell me the truth do you want to do this?”

“Yes, Luis I do want to do this. I am scared to do this but knowing that you are behind me all the way makes it even better. I know that having you here with me makes everything perfect. I am sure we will be fine and nothing is going to happen to us. Now let’s go in and get this whole thing over with.” When she was finished Luis smiled at her and gave her a kiss. “I am proud of you.” He told her. As Luis and Sheridan were walking into the Seascape, a black Cougar pulls into the parking place beside their car. A man in all black comes out. Sheridan and Luis don’t notice that he follows them the whole way into the restaurant and the entire way to their table with Julian. Julian goes over and pulls out the seat for Sheridan and she sits down. Luis sits down next to her and takes her hand in his and gives it a reassuring squeeze. “How are you doing, Sister Dear? Julian asks Sheridan.

“Ohh…Just get to the damn point Julian. We didn’t come here to socialize. What are we going to do about bring down Alistair?” “I was just checking on how you are with the baby coming and all, first. When is the baby due again? I don’t want it to come in the way of the plan.” “Julian is that all you care about your plan working? She is your own sister and all you can think of is the baby coming in to the middle of the plan.” Luis replies to Julian. “It isn’t that, I just don’t want anything to happen to Sheridan or the baby. Who knows Alistair is capable of? Here, I have an idea why don’t we wait until the baby is born until we do something to Alistair.”

“Fine, whatever, we will do whatever you need us to do to get rid of the bastard. Can we at least make the plan now so we do what we are going to do?” Sheridan says. “Ok here’s the plan. Let’s make nice to Alistair. Then after you have the baby we can invite him to the christening dinner. While he is at the christening dinner we can have Theresa put poison in his food and then he will die.” Julian said. “Should we get Ethan and Theresa involved with the plan because what will happen to the twins.” replied Luis.

“No, it wouldn’t be pointed at Theresa because there will be lots of help in the kitchen,” replied Sheridan. “True” Luis said. Sheridan listens to what song was playing and she squeezes Luis’s hand and says,” Listen”

Every time our eyes meet
This feeling inside me
Is almost more than I can take
Baby when you touch me
I can feel how much you love me
And it just blows me away
I've never been this close to anyone or anything
I can hear your thoughts
I can see your dreams

“Sheridan would you like to dance with me?” Luis asks. “Well I have a condition for my dancing partner you have to be my husband. And I don’t know where he is. Oh there he is sitting right in beside me! Let’s dance” Sheridan replies.

I don't know how you what you do
I'm so in love with you, it just keeps getting better and better.
I wanna spend the rest of my life with you by my side
Forever and ever
Every little thing that you do
Baby I'm amazed by you

Sheridan looks into Luis’s eyes and smiles. “I love you,” Luis says. Sheridan says, “No, I love you more” Luis replies, “I love you to the ends of the earth and back again.”

The smell of your skin
The taste of your kiss
The way you whisper in the dark
Your hair all around me, baby you surround me
You touch everyplace in my heart
Oh, it feels the first time every time
I wanna spent the whole night in your eyes

I don't know how you what you do
I'm so in love with you, it just keeps getting better
I wanna spend the rest of my life with you by my side
Forever and ever
Every little thing that you do
Baby I'm amazed by you

Every little thing that you do
I'm so in love with you
It just keeps getting better
I wanna spend the rest of my life with you by my side

Forever and ever
Every little thing that you do
Oh, every little thing that you do
Baby I'm amazed by you
(Amazed by Lonestar)

The next song began to play and Julian came over. “May I cut in?” He asked Luis. Luis looked at Sheridan for conformation and she nodded her head yes. “You may dance with her but don’t try to do anything stupid, I will be watching you closely.” Luis admonished him. Luis headed back to the table after giving Sheridan a quick kiss.

There's two things I know for sure.
She was sent here from heaven, and she's daddy's little girl.
As I drop to my knees by her bed at night,
she talks to Jesus, and I close my eyes.
And I thank God for all of the joy in my life,
Bit most of all, for...

“Sister Dear, I am sorry about telling you about all the cameras and sound devices in the cottage, but I thought it would be better it I did tell you and Luis. That way if we have to talk father will not hear us.” Julian says. “It is okay, Julian,” Sheridan says and quietly listens to the song.

Butterfly kisses after bedtime prayer.
Stickin' little white flowers all up in her hair.
"Walk beside the pony daddy, it's my first ride."
"I know the cake looks funny, daddy, but I sure tried."
Oh, with all that I've done wrong,
I must have done something right
to deserve a hug every morning,
and butterfly kisses at night.

Sweet sixteen today,
she’s looking like her momma a little more every day.
One part woman, the other part girl.
To perfume and makeup, from ribbons and curls.
Trying her wings out in a great big world.

But I remember...
Butterfly kisses after bedtime prayer.
Stickin' little white flowers all up in her hair.
"You know how much I love you daddy,
but if you don't mind,
I'm only going to kiss you on the cheek this time."

With all that I've done wrong,
I must have done something right
to deserve her love every morning,
and butterfly kisses at night.

All the precious time like the wind,
the years go by precious butterfly
spread your wings and fly
She'll change her name today.
She'll make a promise, and I'll give her away.
Standing in the bride room just staring at her,
she asked me what I'm thinking,
and I said "I'm not sure,
I just feel like I'm losing my baby girl."

Then she leaned over...and gave me...
Butterfly Kisses, with her mama there
Sticking little white flowers all up in her hair
"Walk me down the aisle daddy,
i'ts just about time"
"Soes my wedding gown look pretty daddy?"
"Daddy don't cry"
With all that I've done wrong,

“Sher, do you remember when you were little how every night before you would go to bed, after mom died, I would read you a story and tuck you into bed? Every night you would give me butterfly kisses right on the check.”

Flashback Four-year old Sheridan listens as her big brother Julian finishes her favorite storybook. He tucks her into bed and tells her Goodnight and I love you. He bends down to give her a hug and she gives him butterfly kisses on his check. End Flashback Sheridan’s eyes fill with tears. “Of course I remember Julian. Every time you and Father would try and separate Luis and me, I would think back to then and wonder how someone could change so much. I love you so much Julian. I always will no matter what.”

I must have done something right
To deserve her love every morning,
And butterfly kisses
I couldn't ask God for more,
man, this is what love is
I know I've gotta let her go,
but I'll always remember
Every hug in the morning, and butterfly kisses..
(Butterfly Kisses by Bob Carlisle)

As Luis watches Julian and his sweet Sheridan dancing, and he sees a mysterious man dressed in black and walking out the door of the restaurant. He begins to wonder if that man was watching them discuss what they were going to do to Alistair, and if they overheard them. Then decided that if he was spying on them that he would not be dressed in all black but in regular clothes so he did not stand out. As the song ends, Julian and Sheridan walk back to the table were Luis is sitting staring into space. “Luis, darling?? Hello?” Sheridan says. “Oh sorry Sheridan dear, I was just thinking about our future together and our baby.” Luis replies. “Oh ok darling” Sheridan says to Luis. The waiter brings them their food and they eat.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ “Did you find out anything about why Julian and Sheridan were meeting tonight? Alistair asks Hank. “Yes I did” “Well tell me damn it” “They are planning on killing you at the baby’s christening.” “Oh really, well that will have to be stopped. I will just have to come around them more and act like I care. Then I will have YOU kidnap the baby when it is born.” *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* Luis looks at his watch and says,” We have time for one more dance, would you care too?” “I would love to, Luis!” Sheridan says.

They head out to the dance floor as their final song begins to play. The song is Because You Loved Me by Celine Dion “Luis we have never talked about what we are going to name the baby. I would like to have a couple names in mind. Here I have an idea why don’t we each pick out a boy’s name and a girl’s name and then we can decide which one fits.” “That sounds fine to me, Sweetheart. Right now I just want to hold you in my arms and think. We can discuss the names on the way to Ethan and Theresa’s to pick up Anna and Emma. Is that alright with you?”

“Sure that is fine with me. I enjoy being in your arms.” They both stop talking and sway to the music. Sheridan’s head is resting on Luis’ shoulder while his cheek is resting on top of her head. To everyone around them they look so in love it is incredible. The music stops and neither of them seem to notice. They are so lost in each other that they continue to sway back and forth. Luis feels Julian tap him on his shoulder. It brings him back to reality. He shakes Sheridan gently and she realizes the song has stopped. “Wow, you too must have been really lost in each other.” “Yeah, thanks for telling me. We must have really looked silly lost in each other so much.” Sheridan replied.

“No, actually it looked kinda sweet. Well, I wanted to remind you that it is almost nine. Ethan and Theresa are expecting you soon. Here is your purse, sister dear. I will walk you out to the car.” They all head out to the car Julian goes to Sheridan’s door and opens it for her. He stops her before she gets in and gives her a tight hug. “I will always love you sister, no matter what I may do for Father.” He whispers in her ear. He kisses her on her forehead and tells her goodnight. Luis waves good bye to Julian and Sheridan gets in the car. “What was that all about? He never does anything like that in public and now he just hugged and kissed you.”

“Yeah, I know he also said he loved me and that he will always love me despite what he does for Alistair.” They head to Ethan and Theresa’s. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Ethan and Theresa were sitting in their living room. They had finally gotten Emma and Anna to fall asleep together. Ethan was sitting on the floor with his back to the couch. Theresa was nestled between Ethan’s legs with his arms wrapped tightly around her. Together, they had gotten the girls bags together for their five day stay at Sheridan and Luis’s. Right now they were settled on the floor just enjoying each others company. Ethan kissed the top of Theresa’s head. “Do you want to watch a movie after the girls leave? We can watch whatever you want. Then, we can head upstairs and can take turns rubbing each others backs. And you know what comes after that.”

“It really doesn’t matter to me what we do. As long as I am in your arms and am with you. I really miss being around you.” Before Ethan had a chance to answer her, there was a knock at the door. Theresa went to stand up to get it but Ethan pulled her back down. He gave her a sweet yet passionate kiss on the lips. Together, they stood up and went to get the door. It was Luis and Sheridan. They were here to get the twins. Theresa put her finger to her lips to signal that the twins were sleeping. “Did you guys have fun tonight?” Ethan whispered. “Yeah it was wonderful, but now I am ready to see my favorite nieces and give there parents some much needed time alone. If you show us where they are at and where their stuff is we will get it and head out to the car.” Sheridan told them.

“Well, they are both sleeping in their car seats. Their stuff is in their rooms. They are in the car seats in the living room. Sher come with me and we will get their stuff. Luis and Ethan you can each grab a twin and meet us at the door.” They went their separate ways. Sheridan and Theresa headed upstairs to get the bags. On the way up, Sher asked Theresa a question. “I bet you guys aren’t going to get much sleep tonight, you are going to have fun all night aren’t you?” Sher grinned her radiant smile when she finished the question. “You bet we are Sher. We already have it planned, but we are relaxing and watching a movie first.

My pick! I will probably end up letting him pick though. He will pick a scary one and then he can hold me close through the movie.” Sheridan just grinned back at her. They had reached the girls room by then. Emma had a purple bag and Sher grabbed it while Theresa grabbed Anna’s pink bag. They went downstairs to meet the guys. Ethan and Luis had wrapped blankets over top of the car seats. Theresa got tears in her eyes when she realized her babies weren’t going to be here tonight. Ethan noticed this and walked over to her and put his arm around her. “It will be okay.” He whispered in her ear. He leaned over and gave her a peck on the cheek. He took her free hand in his and turned to Luis. “Are you guys ready for this?”

“Of course we are ready. What do you take us for whimps? Theresa don’t worry about them. You can come and visit anytime you want. I mean it is your own children. You might want to call first and make sure we are there but I don’t see why we wouldn’t be there unless we are at the store or something. Don’t worry we have both of your cell-phone numbers and I think I remember your house number.” Luis replies, grinning at his last remark. “Oh, I know they will be fine. It is just that this is the first time they have been away from Ethan and I for a long period of time and it just makes me nervous.” Theresa looks at Ethan and he pulls her close. Sheridan goes and opens the door for them all. They all head out to the car.

Ethan and Theresa hook the car seats in and kiss both of the girl’s foreheads. They shut the back doors and Theresa and Sheridan hug, and then do Sheridan and Ethan, and then Theresa and Ethan. They said good bye and got in the car. Ethan wrapped his arms around Theresa as she sniffled softly into his shoulder. He softly kissed her forehead and then swept her up in his arms and carried her inside. he settled her on the couch. "What movie do you want me to get from the store, princess?" He asked her. "I don't really care. I would rather you just pick something from here. I don't want you to leave me. You can even pick the movie. I just want to be close to you." Theresa replied. Ethan went into the computer room and picked up the movie Scream. He knew it was Theresa's least favorite movie but he got to hold her tight during the scary parts. He walked back into the living room to find Theresa no longer there. 'Hmm...Where could she be?' He thought.

He had just sat down on the couch, when he heard a sound behind him, he turned around. There was Theresa standing on the bottom step of the staircase in one of his t-shirts that hit just about the knee. "Hey sweetheart." She said in a seductive voice. She walked over and sat down beside him on the couch. He stood up and put in the movie. Then, he walked over and shut off the lights. Finally, he grabbed a blanket and settled down on the couch. Theresa snuggled up to him and slid in his arms. He wrapped his arms around her and put the blanket on top of them. The movie began and their eyes fixed themselves on the screen. They were so into the movie that they didn't even noticed the pair of blue eyes watching them through the window.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* Luis and Sheridan pulled into the driveway of the cottage. The girls had stayed asleep the whole way home. Luis got out and went and opened Sher's door for her. He helped her out and reached in and got out both of the bags of the twins things. He reached in and unhooked Emma and pulled her out. He handed her and her bag to Sheridan. He went around to the other side and quickly got out Anna. He picked her bag up and let them all in the house. They immediately took the girls upstairs and changed them into matching pajamas and changed their diapers. They put them into their separate cribs. Luis took the bags to put them in Anna's room. When he came back, he noticed Sher wasn't in there anymore. He seen that the balcony door was open and walked out.

She was sitting there on the swing slowly rocking herself back and forth. Luis walked over to her and sat down. She instinctively moved over to him and he put his arm around her. "What are you doing out here." He asked her. "I was just thinking about everything that happened today." She replied and he nodded his head in agreement. For awhile they just sat there in silence until they heard Emma crying in the background. Sheridan motioned for Luis to stay there. She went into the bedroom and picked Emma up. Emma calmed down a little but continued to cry. She went downstairs and heated up one of Emma's purple bottles Theresa had gotten ready for them.

Then, she took Emma back upstairs and grabbed her blanket and then, they both went out on the swing with Luis. Luis settled himself long ways on the swing and parted his legs for Sheridan to sit between. She sat down and Luis wrapped his arms around her and took the bottle and held it up for her. She leaned her head against his chest and closed her eyes. Emma quickly finished her bottle and snuggled into Sheridan's chest and fell fast asleep. Luis settled the bottle on the balcony floor and pulled Sheridan tightly against him. He rested his head on hers and they both quickly fell asleep.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* The movie finished up and Ethan had had enough of this. He swept Theresa up in his arms and carried her upstairs. He laid her on the bed and lay down beside her. He lowered his mouth to hers and let his tongue slide inside. He began to unbutton the t-shirt she was wearing. Once he got the top buttons done, his mouth slid down to suck on his supple breasts. He slid his tongue around them in different patterns until they were harden into tighten buds. She pulled his head up and began to pull off his shirt. When she got his shirt off, she started on his pants.

When she got them off, she slid her hand in his boxers and slowly slid her hand up and down his hardened manhood. He slid his hand down to her panties and gently tugged them off. He reached down and made sure she was nice and hot. He slid two more fingers inside and quickly they both found a rhythm to move to. When they realized they couldn’t wait no longer Ethan kneeled over top of Theresa and slowly slid into her. They quickly found a pace and rocked back and forth until they reached their climaxes. Exhausted Ethan collapsed down beside her. Slowly unattaching him from her, they both fell sleep wrapped tightly in each other’s arms.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* Luis tried to shift his body and realized he couldn’t. He opened his eyes and was hit by the bright sunlight hitting his face. He looked at the watch on his wrist and realized it was seven o’clock in the morning. He had to be at work in an hour. He suddenly realized he wasn’t in his bed either; he was still on the swing from last night. He gently scooped up Sher and Emma, and took them into the bedroom. Luis untangled Emma from Sheridan’s arms and settled her in the bassinet. He heard babbling coming from the baby monitor that was sitting on the dresser. He walked down the hall and into Anna’s room. He picked her up and realized that she needed to be changed and probably fed, too. He quickly changed her diaper while she continued to babble on endlessly. He picked her up and took her down to his room.

He had been planning on getting a shower before work but now it looked like that wasn’t going to work. He placed Anna in her bouncy seat and started to get dressed. When he was done getting dressed, he walked over to the bed and gave Sher a quick kiss. Her eyelids fluttered and she smiled in her sleep. “I Love you.” He whispered. He went over and picked Emma up and quickly changed her diaper without even waking her up. He put her back in her bassinet and picked Anna up. Together, they went downstairs and heated up her bottle. Luis took her back upstairs and fed her, her bottle in the rocking chair. No sooner had she finished her bottle her eyelids drooped and she snuggled against Luis. He began to hum and she fell fast sleep.

He placed her back in the crib and turned the baby monitor back on. He walked down to his room and wrote Sheridan a note telling her, he had changed both girls diapers and fed Anna around seven-thirty. He quickly kissed her again and headed to work.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 2:

Around ten, Sher, woke up to the sound of a baby drying. ‘What time is it?’ She thought. She looked at her clock and saw it was ten. She realized Emma’s soft sobs were what had woken her up. She wondered... ‘How did Luis get us both in bed, we were both on top of him?’ She stood up and walked over to Emma. She picked her up out of her crib and checked her diaper. It was fine. She took her downstairs to get her bottle. On the way, she checked on Anna and noticed the note from Luis. She fed Emma her bottle and took her to up to get a bath. She gave her a quick bath and took her into her room to get dressed. She put her in a light blue sundress, with white socks fringed in light blue lace. She took her to the rocking chair and rocked her for awhile. She put her in the bouncy seat. Sher walked downstairs and got herself a glass of juice and an apple. She heated Anna’s bottle while she ate.

She got the bottle, checked on Emma and went and retrieved Anna who was just waking up. She fed Anna, gave her a bath, and dressed her. She put a light peach sundress on her with peach sock that were fringed in white lace. By that time it was twelve. She put Anna in her bouncy seat and made the bed. The girls seemed content in their seats, so she pulled them into the bathroom and quickly got her shower. She came out and pulled as much of her hair back as she could. She got dressed in jean shorts and a white tee. She gathered all the laundry and put it at the top of the stairs. She picked up both of the girls in their seats and set them in the laundry room. She then went and got the laundry and started it. She took the girls out of the seats and took them to the living room and played with them until she heard a knock on the door.

She picked up the girls and walked to answer it. It was Theresa and as soon as Anna seen her mommy her face spilt into a huge grin. Theresa took her from Sheridan and began to babble to her daughter. “How are you sweetie? Mommy missed you last night. Well, not totally, but of course she missed you. Daddy and I got to sleep all night long. Actually, we just woke up about a half an hour ago.” Theresa said to her daughter. Sheridan grinned and led the way to the living room. “How was last night Theresa? Did you have some fun?” Sheridan settled down on the couch and laid Emma on her legs.

Theresa told Sheridan some details about last night. How Ethan picked the movie, “Scream”, and how they never got to sleep. (Theresa yawns) “It is such a nice day, the sun shining…..” Theresa cuts Sheridan off, “How about we go for a walk on the wharf and in the park. Maybe the fresh air will wake me up some. Where is Anna??” “Upstairs sleeping” “Oh let me go get her, I want to hold her I missed them last night.” Theresa goes upstairs and gets Anna careful not to wake her. While Sheridan went and got Emma and her stroller, Theresa laid a still sleeping Anna into hers. Theresa rubbed a little bit of sunscreen on Anna’s skin and put a white bonnet on her. Sheridan puts Emma in the other one and puts on her sunscreen and blue bonnet. They set out for a nice leisurely walk. The girls wake up and start to babble to each other.

They headed downtown and passed the police station to see if Luis was there. His car was not so they headed down to the office where Ethan worked. He was there and Theresa checked her watch and noticed it was time for his break. Theresa went in and seen if he was going to go to lunch with them. He came out with Theresa and they all headed down to the Book Café for lunch. They sit down and Beth comes over to take their order. “Can you give us a minute Beth, I am not really sure what I want yet?” Theresa asks her.

“Sure.” Beth replies and goes to check on some other customers. A few minutes later Beth comes back and they all order their food. As they eat they begin talking. “Sheridan, how did your date with Luis go last night? You both seemed pretty uptight when you came to pick up the twins.” Ethan said. “Well…it was a pretty uptight night. It wasn’t just Luis and I, Julian was with us. We were discussing bringing Alistair down. We may need your help. That is if you want to help us. We have everything figured out and nothing can happen to any of us.” Sheridan said in a quiet tone of voice that was creepy. Theresa and Ethan exchanged looks and discussed things through their eyes.

Slowly, they agreed to hear out the plan and then decide. “Well, tell us what will happen and then we will decide or not.” Ethan said. “Okay, we have decided to get really friendly with Alistair up until the baby is born. When he/she is born and we have the christening we will invite Alistair to the party. Whoever is cooking the food, which Theresa, you and Pilar would be helping, will put poison on his meat. There is really no dirty work in this so no one can get hurt. And there will be a lot of people helping cook the food so, it could be pointed at one of us.” Just then the food came and they stopped talking and ate their lunch. After eating they walked back to Ethan’s work on the way they discussed the plan.

Ethan and Theresa both agreed to help as long as nothing would happen to them because they didn’t want to leave their twins all alone in the world. They got to his office and Ethan kissed Theresa and the girls good-bye and quickly gave Sheridan a hug. Theresa and Sheridan walk toward the wharf when someone starts following them. As the blue eyed man follows the girls, he gets a phone call. “Hello” The voice on the other end says, “Where are you?” “I am following Theresa and Sheridan they are walking with the twins.” “Good see if Sheridan tells Theresa about the plan to kill me.” “Ok” As Theresa and Sheridan come back from their walk both girls are sleeping soundly. So they just leave them sleep while they sit on the front porch of Sheridan cottage.

Sheridan begins to talk about her upcoming doctor’s appointment. "Theresa, I can't wait until next week! I am finally going to get to see my baby but I am so scared that they will find something wrong." "Sher, they aren't going to find anything wrong. You are doing everything you are supposed to be. There isn't going to be anything wrong and you know it" Theresa told her gently. All of a sudden Sheridan began to cry softly with sobs that racked her whole body. Theresa scooted over to her and wrapped her in her arms and tried to calm her with no luck. She heard a car pulling into the driveway and realized it was Luis. He parked his car and got out.

As he headed up the porch stairs, he noticed Sheridan sobbing. He looked at Theresa for some explanation and she just shrugged her shoulders in confusion. Luis kneeled down in front of Sheridan and took her hands in his. "Sher, baby, what is wrong?" He asked her. She continued to cry but slid over so that Luis could wrap his arms around her and hold her tightly. He began to softly hum a song that she used to love to dance with him too. He hummed it softly so she could barely hear him.

Some won't find a word
More won't find a way
Never to often heard
You know it's easy for me to say.

When she realized he was singing, she calmed down to listen. When it came to the part that she would sing, he hummed in the back and she began to sing.

The thing you need to hear
Way more than every day
Can never be to clear
You know it's easy for me to say

I love you quiet and loud
Alone in crowd
I love you
In a thousand little ways
I m learning to say
And I learn something new everyday
I love you it’s easy for me to say
It always sounds the some
Music to my ears
Means nothing to explain
You know it's easy for me to say
The phrase that we all know
Nothing it can't outweigh

Take it wherever we go
You know it's easy for me to say
I love you
Quiet and loud
Alone in a crowd
I love you
In a thousand little ways
I'm learning to say
I love you
(Easy for Me to Say by Clint Black and Lisa Hartman)

When they said them last three words together, Luis leaned over and kissed Sheridan's head and she snuggled into his chest. "Now can you tell me what is bothering you? I hate seeing you like this." He told her. "I don't really know what is bothering me. I guess it is just all the stress that I had in me last night. Theresa and I were just talking about the sonogram next week and I freaked out about something being wrong. I am just so scared Luis that something will go wrong with me and the baby. I can't bear to lose him or her. I just couldn't" Sheridan begins to sob again. They both jump when they hear a clap of thunder and realized it had begun to storm. Luis picked Sheridan up in his arms and carried her in the house.

He settled her on the couch and told her to stay there. He went upstairs and checked on the twins and told Theresa she better head home before it got worse. He went into his room and changed into black jogging pants. He went and got Emma and Anna and settled them in his arms. He went downstairs to Sheridan and settled Emma into her arms. He walked over to the TV and got out Sheridan's favorite movie Center Stage. He pulled her close to him as Emma and Anna continued to sleep in their arms. She sighed contentedly and Luis decided he wanted to be as close to her as possible so he took Emma from her and laid her on the blanket on the floor and laid Anna next to her.

He settled back down on a chair and gestured for her to move over there with him. She settled between his legs and instead of letting her slide back he made her sit up and he began to rub her back gently until she was so absolved in the movie she didn't even realize he stopped. He pulled her back against him and they watched the rest of the movie together, not moving a single muscle. Sheridan fell asleep towards the end and Luis took her upstairs and put her pajamas on and settled her under the covers. He went down and got the twins ready and put them to bed. He got in next to Sheridan and she pulled herself over to him and snuggled into his arms and they both drifted off to dreamland.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*Five days later~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Sheridan woke up and began to get ready for her appointment. Luis had went to work until it was time to go and would be there soon to leave. She was very nervous and scared that something would go wrong with her pregnancy. She quickly pushed her worries aside and thought back to last night when Luis, Ethan, Theresa, and she had gone out to dinner with Alistair. Surprisingly it had gone smoothly without any problems or slips the whole time. She had even shared a dance with him and it had not been half bad. Of course she knew it was just an act for the public.

She was so lost in remembering last night in an attempt to forget her worries she didn’t even hear Luis come in to get her to head to the doctor’s. He put an arm around her and she jumped. “Sher, baby, it is just me.” He told her. “Oh Luis sorry, I was just thinking, I didn’t even hear you come in.” She replied still kinda off in her own little world. “Baby, what is wrong? You are not totally here. If it is because of this appointment, you really have nothing to worry about because nothing will be wrong.” “ I know Luis but I guess I just can’t help but worry about it. I just want to go and get this over with. We can discuss our names on the way.”

“Okay sweetheart, but come here first.” She walks over to him and he pulls her into a tight comforting hug and she sighs into his chest. He kisses the top of her head and pulls back just enough so that he can see her bright blue eyes that he loves so much. “Always remember that I love you no matter what.” “I love you too Luis, now and forever.” They head out to the car and leave for the doctor’s “I picked out my two names, I like Gabriella Katherine for a girl and Andres Cruz for a boy.” Luis says to Sheridan. “Well, I really like Gabriella for a girl but not Andres. I picked out Sarah Elizabeth for a girl and Luke Martin for a boy. I think we should use your girl name and my boy name that way we both have a say in things.” She said with a grin.

“Well, hello then, Gabby or Luke.” Luis leaned over and gave her stomach a kiss as they pulled into the office parking lot. Sheridan turned kind of pale and Luis gave her hand a reassuring squeeze and helped her out of the car. He wrapped his arm around her and together they headed toward the building. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Sheridan came out of the bathroom dressed in her hospital gown. Luis was sitting in the chair across the room lost in thought. She cleared her throat to let him know that she was there. He looked up and walked over to her. He helped her get settled on the cool metal table. Just then the doctor came in, she was a woman in her late thirties with golden brown hair. Her name was Dr. Reed. “Hello Mr. and Mrs. Lopez-Fitzgerald. Has everything been going okay?” She asked the.

“Yes everything has been fine; in fact it has been wonderful.” Sheridan answered her. “Alright lay down and we can begin.” Dr. Reed said. Sheridan laid down and Luis moved to her head and took her hand in his. She ran through the normal tests and everything came back perfect. “Well, everything looks fine from this point of view. Are you two ready to see your baby?” Sheridan looked at Luis and he squeezed her hand. Sheridan shook her head yes because she is afraid to speak. Dr. Reed goes outside the room to get the sonogram cart, while she is out there Luis leans down and whispers in her ear “I Love You”, and kisses her forehead. She returns the kiss with a small smile. Dr. Reed returns and moves Sheridan’s gown so that she can apply the KY jelly.

“This may be a little bit cold” She puts the jelly on her stomach and Sheridan fidgets a little bit but soon settles down. “Now this maybe a little bit uncomfortable on your bladder but, just relax and I will try and make it as comfortable as possible.” Sheridan takes a deep breath and tries to relax as much as possible while she tightens her hold on Luis’ hand. Dr. Reed pushes the paddle around and a fuzzy picture comes up on the screen. “There is your baby right there.” They can see a little head and arms and legs. Sheridan lets out a small sigh and starts to cry a little for she is in awe of what is on the screen.

Luis even begins to tear up at the sight. Dr. Reed points out all the fingers and toes and all the other things. “Would you two like to know what you are having?” She asked them. “No, I think we will wait until he/she is born.” Luis answered her without taking his eyes off the screen. “Okay well, you are all done. I will go and get the tape and pictures for you to take home. Here is a towel and you can wipe off the jelly and can get dressed. Luis cleaned off her tummy and helped her get up. She went into the room and changes back into her clothes. She was just coming out when the doctor came back in. Luis settled on a chair and Sheridan sat in his lap while the doctor explained what would be going on inside of Sheridan for the next couple months.

She also suggested that they sign up for an emergency class and Lamaze class the hospital was offering to the public. She told Sheridan that she would need to take it easy from now until the end of her pregnancy. She gave them their things and told them to make an appointment with the front desk. She left the room and told them they could go. When they walked out of the doctor’s office there was a lady sitting on the bench near there car. Sheridan stopped dead in her tracks when she saw her. Luis turned around when he realized Sheridan wasn’t on his side. “Sheridan what is wrong?” She just stood there frozen in her tracks as the lady that she thought died when she was four walked toward them.

”Sheridan, darling, it is me mama. I am home.” Tears started to come from Sheridan’s eyes as she realized that this was really her mom. Her ran to her and hugged her like there was no tomorrow. “But how, you died twenty years ago, how can I be standing here in your arms. There is no way for that to be possible.” Sheridan continued to mumble on endlessly in her mother’s embrace. Luis just stood there grinning like an idiot. He was in disbelief too, but maybe this woman could help them figure out what had happened to his father.

To Be Continued…

Chapter 3:

“Mama what happened to you? I always wondered where you went and you leaving when I was 4 years old. I never understood what happened.” Sheridan questions her mom. “Sheridan darling, don’t worry about it now you will find out about it soon enough.” “Mama, but I have already waited almost 20 years. I don’t know if I can wait any longer.” “Sheridan I am not ready to tell you yet. I have to go and talk to Julian. I wanted to come and find you. Who is that?” Katherine points to Luis who is standing beside their car. “That is my Husband, Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald” “Pilar 2nd oldest son??” “Yes that’s who mama. Luis come here!” “Yeah Sher what do you need dear.” Luis says to Sheridan.

“Luis this is my mother Katherine Crane.” Sheridan says. “Nice to meet you. Oh have you two grown from the last time I saw you two sitting on a blanket coloring a picture together. “Katherine says. “We did??” Luis asks question “Yes you did that was the last day before I left, but that is a story for another day. Sheridan I have to go find your brother.” “Ok mother. Thank you for coming and finding me it meant so much to me to see you again. Will I get to see you again??” “Yes Sheridan you will. I am home for good. I am not leaving again. Bye Sweetheart” “Bye mother” Katherine walk down the street. Sheridan turns and walks to their car as Luis follows. “Sheridan was that weird. That just all of a sudden your mother shows up with no explanation to where she has been or any thing.”

“Luis, I am just glad my mother is backing home. I thought she was gone forever and I was never going to see her again. Just like your father we hope he will come back but we are not sure. I am just glad she came and found me.” They got in the car and drove home. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Instead of going and finding Julian, Katherine went to see Alistair. “Katherine, why are you home?” yells Alistair. “Dear, I only thought it would help your plan,” Katherine says in a soft voice. “Darling I love you being home and I am sorry for sending you away but I only wanted to save your life. Your life was in danger. You were dieing in my arms, but I only did what I thought was right. I felt so bad for sending you away and keeping it from Julian and Sheridan.

“I was not you fault, I was very sick but now I feel great. I am so glad that I am home. Alistair dear, I don’t blame you on sending me away I was very sick.” Katherine gives Alistair a kiss. “I am glad you are home too.” Alistair says between kisses, and wonders why he sent her away in the first place. Alistair slowly begins to maneuver them over to the bed all while continuing to kiss his sweet wife’s neck. He realized how much he did miss her. When they begin to fall to the bed, Katherine pushes Alistair away and stops them. “Sweetheart what is wrong?” Alistair asks her.

“Well, I want to have dinner with all my friends and family and give them an explanation about why I had to leave so abruptly. I would like to take them to dinner at the Seascape and I would like you to be there. I want to tell them together. Also, I wanna tell you right now that my disease is completely gone but my doctor’s want to see me every couple months for the next two years so that they can make sure nothing is wrong. Will you go to dinner for me please? I have been away from you for so long and don’t want to be away now. I don’t think I could stand that right now. All I could think about while I was gone was how much I missed you and the kids. I thought of you every night and dreamt of the night that you would hold me in your arms again.”

She begins to cry and Alistair pulls her down into his lap and wraps his arms around her and gently rubs her back. “Well, that day is finely here sweetheart and if I have any say in it you will never leave here again. I missed you so much too. I would think of you every time I saw Sheridan’s deep blue eyes looking up at me asking where her momma was. It made my heart break every time she asked me.”

He too begins to tear up and has to stop speaking. For a while they just sit there and hold each other for a long time. Finally Alistair speaks again. “Go ahead and get ready I will call the Seascape and make reservations for all of us and you can call Sheridan and ask her to get everyone to be there.” He tells her. “That is good. I will call but do you know her cell-phone number because they probably went to see some of their friends to tell them the good news.” She asks. He gives her the number and she settles in his arms while he calls the restaurant to make the reservations. She lays her head on his chest and closes her eyes. When Alistair puts down the phone he looks down at his wife and notices that she fell asleep. So he just picks up the phone to call Sheridan. She answers on the second ring and says Hello.

“Sheridan-dear it is your father. Your mother would like you to call all her old friends and family and have them meet us at the Seascape for seven o’clock. She would like to explain what has happened to her over the past twenty years of her life and why she had to leave so soon and so abruptly.” “Okay father that will be fine, do you know of anyone important we should have come or anyone who should definitely not come.” “No, I think your mother was friends with just about everyone in Harmony so anyone you invite should be fine. Thank you Sheridan but I have to go and I will see you at seven o’clock. “Your welcome father, I will see you later.”

Alistair hangs up the phone and moves him and his wife down on the bed. He gently kisses her forehead and pulls her close so that they can both sleep together for awhile. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Sheridan hangs up the phone and Luis walks over to where she was standing. “Who was that?” He asks her. “It was my father, my mother would like me to invite all of her friends and family to the Seascape for dinner at seven. She wants to explain all of the stuff that has happened and why she had to leave.” She tells him. “Okay, well, do you want to go home now so you can do all this?” Luis asks her. “No, that’s okay. I can call everyone from here. I wanna spend some time with Ethan and Theresa.

They are so much happier since the little break they got from Emma’s colic. I should have everyone’s number in my phone. After they had left the doctor's office, they went to see Ethan and Theresa. They took the twins to the park. Luis and Sheridan told them about meeting Katherine and the good news about the baby. They all decided to walk downtown for lunch. It was on the way that Alistair had call. "Hey guys, that was Father. Apparently my mom wants to meet us at the Seascapre at seven. She wants to explain why she was away for so long. We need to call all heer old friends and have them meet her and us there." Sheridan told them.

"That is fine with us. We will just have to take the girls with us. There probably won't be many people left to watch them. Your mother was a very popular person, Sher. I remember Momma and her friends talking about her when I was older. If you have to call everyone we better get crackin." Theresa told her. They headed down to the Book Cafe and settled down for lunch. "We will need to make a list of everyone who will be coming." As Sher says this Theresa pulls out a tiny notebook and a pen. She hands them to Sheridan. Emma decides to pick that moment to burst into tears also causing Anna to start crying. Luis and Ethan jump up out of their seats and pick up the girls. They slowly rock them back and forth until they calm down. Everyone decides what they want to eat and Luis and Ethan take the girls and go order it. While they were ordering it, Theresa and Sheridan began to figure out who to invite.

"Well, Momma, Miguel, Sam, Grace, Kay, Jessica, and Charity for one." Sheridan thinks. "Yeah and Eve, T.C., Whitney, Chad, and Simone." Theresa says also deep in thought. "Yeah what about Rebecca and Gwen, I know we really done get along with them now but I am sure we could deal with them for one night." Sheridan says. Theresa shakes her head in agreement. "They probably won't even come but at least we will have invited them." Theresa looks up to see where the guys were in the line. They were almost to the front. So she stood up and got the girls from them and settled them back in their stroller. She and Sher called the people on their list and everyone agreed to be there.

When they were finished they guys arrivied with their food. They ate in silences all contmplating tonight. After they are done, they walk to Theresa's and Ethan's. The girls take Emma and Anna upstairs for their bottle and their naps, while Ethan and Luis stay downstairs to talk "So what has been up with you and Sher?" "Well, she really has been emotional lately but that is probably with the baby. I don't know about this Katherine lady though. I know Sheridan thinks she is her mother but it just seems weird that she comes back now when we are contemplating killing Alistair. What if this is just one of his little plots to rope us in to his little plan. I just don't like it at all."

"Well, what can we do about it. If you really think that something is going to happen to Sheridan maybe we should look into this." Yeah, I would like Katherine to get a DNA but I don't want to say anything around it about Sher. She would have my neck if she heard me suggest that her mother take a DNA test to make sure she is really her mother." "OH....MY GOD I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU WOULD EVEN SUGGEST SUCH A THING. DON'T YOU THINK I WOULD KNOW WHO MY OWN MOTHER IS. SOMETIMES YOU ARE SUCH A BASTARD WHEN IT COMES TO SOMETHING THAT ACTUALLY MAKES ME HAPPY. AT FIRST YOU WERE HAPPY SHE WAS BACK, NOW YOU WANT TO GET HER TESTED TO MAKE SURE SHE IS MY MOTHER. I THINK I WOULD BE ABLE TO TELL IF IT WASN'T HER."

After her outburst Sheridan sank to the bottom of the steps and started crying. Luis went over to comfort her but she pushed him away and turned her head. Ethan went over and gathered her in his arms and tried to console her. She continued to cry into his shoulder until she fell asleep. Ethan looked up at Luis who was standing there with a hurt look on his face. Ethan motioned to him that Sher had falled asleep on his shoulder. "Carry her out to the car Ethan. I will take her home. She needs to rest anyway. She has had to much stress on her and now she probably hates me. I just don't want to see her get hurt. That is exactly what will happen if that isn't her mother, and you know that." Luis says to Ethan.

Ethan nods his head and picks up Sher and Luis opens the door for him. They get her settled in the car and Luis thanks Ethan. On the way home Luis can't help but look at Sheridan while she sleeps. She mumbles something in her sleep about always loving him. He grins even when she is mad at him, she stills dreams about him. When they arrive at home he settles her on the bed and starts to stand up but she stops him and pulls him back down to the bed.

He sighs and wraps his arms around her until she falls back into her deep sleep. Then he untangles himself and begins to think about what he can do to make this up to her but still get her to agree that they should have her mother take the DNA test just to be safe. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* When Sheridan woke up she noticed that there was a trail of rose petals. She decided to follow the rose petal, at the end of the trail she realizes that she is in the baby's room. Luis is sitting in the rocking chair looking out the window. As she begins to storm off, she notices a single long stemmed rose with a note attached to it, in the crib. She sighs and picks it up and begins to read the note.

Dear Sheridan, I know you are upset with me but just don't want to see you get hurt. I know how your Father and Julian do things. I did meant to make you mad at me becasue I didnt mean that you wouldn't know who your mother is. I just want to make sure it wasn't a plan to hurt you. Your Father has a way of twisting things into something it isn't. I am very, very, sorry and I hope you will forgive me. Love you forever and a day, Luis

Sheridan rereads the last line out loud. "Love you forever and a day, I feel the same way Luis. I shouldn't get mad at you over something so stupid but I think I would know who my own birth mother is. I know you may think it is a plan of Alistair's. I don't really trust him either but, why would my mother be with him right now." Luis stands up and walks over to Sheridan. He takes her hands into his and looks into her eyes. "I agree with you but it has been over twenty years since you have seen your mother. Your love for her could be directed at the wrong person. I still think you should have the DNA test done, just to make sure it is not a ploy of one of Alistair's or Julian's enemies." Sheridan sighs and says. "I will agree to the test under one condition!"

"Well, what kind of condition would that be?" "That condition would be that you have to take a hot bath with me after we get home tonight." Sheridan tells him in a seductive voice. "How about before?" Luis says with his eyebrows raised. "NO NO no no no...........I want to actually get to the dinner with my mother." Sher says. Luis pulls Sheridan into a hug and starting with her neck begins to slowly kiss his way down. Sher realizes what time it is and pushes him away. "Later baby I promise. It is almost five and I would like to be there early." She walks out of the baby's room. She heads down to her room and grabs her robe.

She goes into the bathroom and Luis follows her. She puts her hand out and says. "No way Jose if you get in that shower with me we won't even make it for dessert." Luis puts on a puppy dog smile and goes in to the bedroom to get his clothes. He then heads to the other bathroom to get ready for this fun-filled evening. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ When Sheridan gets out of the shower, she heads to the closet to pick out her dress. She begins to flip through the dresses when her eyes come upon a golden glittery gown that she instantly knew was the perfect dress. She grabs the gold shoes that match the dress and heads to the bathroom. She begins to curl her hair.

When she finished curling her hair, she pulled back the sides and clipped them with two gold clips. She put on her make-up and pantyhose. She slipped her feet into her shoes and finally pulled on the dress. She put in the earrings that Luis gave her on their six month anniversary and the matching necklace that she got on her one year anniversary. She headed downstairs to meet Luis. To her surprise he wasn’t down there yet, he usually beat her. She began to settle on the couch when a pair of hands pulled her back. One of the hands went around her mouth and the other around her waist. The hands pulled her into a closet. She tried to scream for help when everything went black.

To Be Continued…

Chapter 4:

Luis was upstairs, looking for his cufflinks, when he heard Sheridan scream. He flew out of the bedroom and went downstairs. “SHERIDAN………SHER……WHERE ARE YOU?” He screamed. He listened quietly for a few moments and didn’t hear anything. He began to look all around the house. He looked in every place possible. She wasn’t anywhere. Finally, he called Sam. “Sam, Sheridan is missing. I was upstairs getting ready when I heard her scream. I came downstairs to see what was wrong and she isn’t anywhere. I have looked everywhere for her. I can’t find her Sam.” “I will be right there Luis.” After he hung up with Sam, everything began to sink in to him and his knees went weak. He slid to the floor sobbing. When he finally calmed down, he noticed something shiny on the floor. He walked over and picked it up. It was one of Sheridan's gold butterfly hair clips. He remembers the day she had bought them like it was yesterday.

Flashback

It had been the day after Sheridan had found out she was pregnant. Sheridan was walking around in the hair accessories section at the her favorite store in the mall, Clair's. Luis always picked on her went she went into this store. "It is for little girls, not grown women." He would always say. That day Luis settled on the bench outside the store. An hour later Sheridan came out holding a little bag. When she showed him the butterfly clips she had bought he went ballistic “That is all you bought and you were in there a whole hour!" He exclaimed. "Are you crazy? It took you an hour to decide on that! I would hate to see how long it takes you to pick out a top and shorts. That probably takes you a whole day." He kept going on and on until he noticed that she was crying. He instantly calmed down. He pulled her into his arms and stroked her hair. "What is wrong sweetie; normally you would come back with some smart-aleke comment and continue on ranting and raving. It is not like you to cry." "Look at the clips again." She said between broken hearted sobs.

By this time there was a little bit of a crowd gathered around them so Luis took Sheridan out to the car before they went any further into this. He helped her get into her side and went around to his. She handed him the clips and he looked at them. The top pair said "Mother" and the bottom pair said "Daughter". Luis looked at Sheridan and exclaimed. "Are you telling me what I think you are telling me?" Sheridan was still crying so she just shook her head yes. He was so happy; he reached over and gave Sheridan one of the most passionate kisses she had ever experienced. From then on Sher wore her half of the clips to any important things she went to. End Flashback.

Back at the Bennett's, Sam began running around getting different clothes on. Grace had been downstairs, and decided to come and see what in the world her husband was doing. "Sam, what are you doing, we have to be at the Seascape in twenty minutes. The girls are downstairs waiting for you." Grace told him. "Honey, I just got a call from Luis. It seems like Sheridan had been kidnapped. I need to get over there right away. Can you call Ethan and Theresa and Pilar, please? I have a feeling Luis is going to need them tonight." Grace was kind of shocked for a few seconds but then came to. "I will call them and Sam, please, whatever you do is careful."

Grace had a couple of tears in her eyes and when Sam looked up from tying his shoes, he walked over and gave her a hug. "Don't worry sweetheart, nothing could take me away from you." And with that Sam walked out the door. Grace walked down to tell Kay, Jessica, and Charity what had happened. When Grace walked into the kitchen all three girls noticed that she had been crying. Jessica walked over to her mom and said. "Mom, why are you crying and why did Dad just run out of the house when we are supposed to be at the Seascape in ten minutes." "Girls, why don't you go and sit in the living room. I have a few calls to make and I will be into explain in a few moments."

"But, mom......" "No, buts go and sit and I will be in, in a few minutes." Grace walked out into the kitchen and decided to call Theresa and Ethan first. She looked up Ethan's cell-phone number and with shaking fingers dialed the number. Ethan picked up on the third ring. "Hello?" He said into the receiver. "Hello, Ethan this is Grace." "Hello, Grace how have you been lately." "I have been fine lately but I am afraid that I have some bad news for you. You aren't driving are you?" "No, I am not driving but what is wrong, it isn't Pilar is it?" "No Ethan, it is not Pilar but it is Sheridan. Sam got a call a few minutes ago from Luis. Luis said Sheridan had been kidnapped." Grace heard the phone fall to the ground and Theresa screaming and the twins crying. Suddenly she heard Theresa pick up the phone. “Grace, what is wrong? Ethan passed out when you told him.”

“Well, a little while ago, Sam got a call from a very upset Luis. It seems that Sheridan has been kidnapped again. Luis was upstairs getting ready when he heard Sheridan scream for help. When he went downstairs she was no where to be found. So, he called here. Sam headed over there right away. He wanted me to call you guys so you could go be with Luis. If you would like to bring the girls here, Kay, Jessica, and Charity can help watch them.” “Okay…..thank you Grace….we will bring them over right away. I will talk to you I a couple minutes.” After, Grace hung up; she called Pilar and Miguel and got pretty much the same reaction from them as from Ethan and Theresa. She went into the living room and explained what had happened to the girls. Just as she was finishing up telling them Theresa walked in the door with the twins. Grace took Emma and Charity stood up to get Anna. Both of the girls were sleeping.

"They both had a bottle at 6:30 before we left, so they shouldn't be hungry for awhile. They might wake up but be back to sleep quickly after that. I wrote our cell phone numbers down just in case and on the other hand thank you very much." Theresa quickly gave Grace a thank you hug and kissed her daughters goodnight. Then, she went out to the car with Ethan. *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Sheridan could feel herself being dragged out of the house. She heard Luis screaming her name and softly began to cry. She was so scared. What if she never saw Luis again? Her kidnapper threw her into the back seat of a car and began to drive away. After a few minutes of being tossed around they came to a stop. Her kidnapper took off the mask off of Sheridan's face and when Sheridan tried to see who it was all she seen was a dark black mask with eye holes. She could barely tell the color of the eyes but noticed that they were a deep brown looking. She noticed that they were down on the wharf at one of the old Crane Cannery buildings.

The kidnapper dragged her inside one of them and down a flight of steps. Sher tripped down many of the steps and felt her ankle twist. Then the kidnapper dragged her into one of the rooms that had been used for hanging fish. The kidnapper handcuffed her hands to one of the bars and laid her flat on the floor and handcuffed her feet to the next closest bar. Sher was now laying flat on the floor and couldn't move too much. The gag that the kidnapper put on her in the house was still on and she was finding it harder to breath. Tears continued to stream down her face. The kidnapper removed the gag and raised her hands above her head. "NO DON'T HURT MY BABY!!" Sheridan screamed in terror.

"Oh don't worry, I will." The kidnapper said into a voice changer that she pulled from her pocket. From the other pocket she pulled out a needle. She flicked the air out of the needle and pushed the needle into Sheridan's round belly. Sheridan screamed out Luis's name in pain. "Oh you will get to see your Luis soon but by the time he gets here it will be too late for your damn baby." The kidnapper said. She walked over to the phone to call Luis. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

By the time the phone rang at Luis's house the police had set up a number finder machine and fingerprinted the whole house and the only fingerprints they had found were Sheridan and Luis's. Luis was beginning to lose hope. That was when the phone rang. He waited until Sam gave him the okay and then picked up the phone. "Hello" He said into the receiver. "She is at the wharf in one of the old Crane Cannery buildings. Hurry up if you want to see your precious wife alive. Don't bring any devices with you or you too will die." And with that last sentence the kidnapper hung up. "Sam, she is at the wharf in one of the old Crane Cannery buildings. We have to hurry!" And with that Luis ran out of the house and into his car. He sped down to the wharf. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Sheridan began to feel a huge amount of pain in her stomach and noticed a trail of blood running down her head. She tried to pull her knees up as far as she could which wasn't very far. Her entire body started to hurt when she heard someone coming down the stairs. 'Had her kidnapper come back to kill her too.' "Leave me alone" She screamed when she heard the person stop in the doorway of the room. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Luis jumped out of his car and ran to the first old Cannery building that caught his eye. Some thing told him she was in there. He broke the door down and ran down the stairs into the storages rooms. He kept looking in the rooms until he reached the last one on the left. He walked in and what he saw made him stop in his tracks. "Leave me alone" He heard his wife scream. "Sher, honey, it is me. I am here baby. He knelt down beside her and that was when he noticed the large pool of blood on the floor that she was laying in. Sheridan was beginning to lose her strength by this time and closed her eyes. "Sher, sweetheart, no matter how tired you get I need you to stay awake. Now I am going to get Sam so he can call an ambulance."

When Luis said that Sheridan seemed to regain some strength. Her desperate cries began to shake her body as she said. "No, Luis, Don't leave me. Don't leave down here alone. I need you, please don't leave me." Sheridan continued to repeat this until Luis made a quick decision to stay there. "Alright, sweetheart, I will stay but you need to calm down. I am here and I promise I won't leave you alone ever again." Sheridan was getting very pale and continued to cry in pain. "It hurts Luis, Ohh, It hurts sooo much." He began to soothingly rub her forehead. "LUIS" He heard Sam holler. "We're down here Sam last one on the left." Sam ran into that room and got a sick feeling in his stomach when he saw what was before him. "Go grab the handcuff cutters quickly." He told the guy behind him. "And tell the paramedics where we are." He knelt down on the other side of Sheridan and looked at Luis. Luis never looked up from Sheridan as her continued to speak softly in her ear.

The guy ran with the handcuff cutters and handed them to Sam. The guy then ran up to wait for the paramedics. "Sheridan I am going to cut off these handcuffs off now. I need you to hold very still." Sheridan held as still as she could and Sam quickly cut them off. He and Luis pick up on of her arms and rubbed them to get the circulation back in them. Luis helped her pull her knees up and settle in his lap. She laid her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes. She was so tired. Just as Sam cut off the cuffs around her ankles, the paramedics ran in. They didn't have a stretcher with them so Luis picked her up and carried her up the stairs. Sheridan was going in and out of consciousness. As Luis laid her on the stretcher, she mumbled very faintly. "I love you Luis." Luis tried to climb in the ambulance with her but the paramedics would not let him. Before Luis could flip out Sam took him and quickly led him to his car. Sam got in and sped to the hospital.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ At the hospital Luis waited for what seemed like hours when Sam had brought him, he had called everyone to let them know where he was. Now they all sat there with him. Sam, Grace and the girls, Hank, Mama and Miguel, Ethan, Theresa and the twins, Gwen, and even Ivy and Julian were there. The door to the waiting room opened and Luis looked up thinking it was the doctor but standing there in the flesh was Alistair and Katherine. At first it made Luis angry to think this is what it takes to make Alistair act like he cares about her but then he realized that he was probably putting on a show for Katherine. The doors opened again and Eve stood there. Luis stood up and walked over to her. "Eve, is she okay, please tell me she is okay." "Well, we stopped the bleeding and the abortion but Sheridan is still in a deep coma. There is another doctor that was helping me and she will tell you everything you need to know. If you follow me I will take you to her."

Luis followed Eve down a hallway and into the office of a female doctor that he didn't know. "Hello, Luis, my name is Dr. Gabriella Petro. I was helping Dr. Russell with your wife. Now at the moment she is okay but let me tell, everything from here on out is touch and go. Your wife will need to be on complete bed rest for the rest of her pregnancy. See what happened is when your wife was given the abortion drug the uterine lining began to thin out and right now it is very, very thin. We are giving her strong drugs to try and help it rebuild its strength but being so late in the pregnancy they probably won't help. She can't be up and moving because the slightest movement could cause the lining to break completely. She will probably have to stay in the hospital for at least 3 weeks after she wakes up from the coma. (She pauses and thinks for a second.) I think that is it."

"Can I see her?" Luis asks. "Only for a little while right now, since she is still in the recovery room but in a couple hours you may stay with her as long as you want. If you follow me I will take you to her." Luis stands up and follows her. When they got to her cubicle, Dr. Petro closed the curtain and gave him some privacy. She was laying there on the white sheets with her hair all messed up. She looked like an angel. Tears starting coming down his cheeks when he realized just how close he came to losing her. He took her hand in his and rubbed it against his cheek. He slowly kissed all of her fingers. "I love you Sheridan. You need to come back to me soon. You keep being strong for our baby. Always remember that I love you and I always will." With that he put her hand down and covered her up. He kissed her forehead and with one last I Love you, he left the room.

Dr. Petro was standing there and told Luis that they would come and get them as soon as she was settled in her room. She also told him that is would probably be awhile so if he wanted he could go home and get some different clothes on and take a shower. He headed down to the waiting room to tell his family and friends what was going on. He quickly told them and said if they wanted to go home for awhile no one is going to be allowed in to see her for at least 3 hrs. They all decided to head home and Luis left his cell phone number with the desk in case they were allowed in earlier. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

At home Luis quickly took a shower and threw on jeans and a top. He also threw some clothes in a bag in case he couldn't leave there. He grabbed the book Sheridan had been reading and a couple of pictures to put throughout her room. He grabbed something to eat and headed back to the hospital. When he got there Ethan and Theresa were already there. He sat down beside Theresa and she slipped her arms around him and softly cried into his shoulder. When her tears subsided, she leaned backed and mouthed I Love You to Luis. They all sat there for awhile just comforting each other with their silence. Soon after that Pilar walked in so did Sam and Grace. A few moments after that Miguel and Charity walked in. Everyone gave Luis hugs and asked how he was. He told everyone the same thing.

"I will better when I find out who did this to her. And when I do they will pay." When he was talking to Sam, Dr. Petro walked in. "You may go into see her now. She can hear everything you say and the more you talk to her it will probably help her. Up to 3 people can go in at a time. Go ahead and decide who is going first and you may go." Dr. Petro told them. "Mama, you and Charity and Miguel can go in for awhile. I want to wait and see if Alistair, Katherine, Ivy, and Julian are going to come anytime soon." Luis told his mother and she shook her head in agreement and the three stood up and followed Dr. Petro down to Sheridan's room. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Pilar went into the room first. She went to Sheridan's left side and took her hand in hers. Miguel and Charity entered after her and went to her right side and held her right hand together. Miguel got shivers thinking about how close his brother came to losing Sheridan and couldn't imagine his life without Charity in it. He wrapped his arm around her and pulled her close. Charity knew exactly what he was thinking and took his hand in her free hand and leaned back into his embrace. Pilar was the first to speak. "Mija, we came so close to losing you but now you are doing well, you need to wake up because my mijo needs you so much. We all love you so much. You keep yourself strong for your baby. You are like my own daughter.

I couldn't imagine going on without you around in my life." Pilar stopped speaking because tears were streaming down her face. She motioned to Charity and Miguel that she was going to step out. They nodded their heads. Miguel began to speak next. He tried to keep it light so his voice didn't show his tension. "Hey big-sis, you need to get better so you can get out of this place and we can play a game of hoops. And as soon as you have that baby of yours we can teach him or her how to play too. She will be able to beat anyone because she will have the best teachers ever."

"Sheridan, you are like my mentor. I don’t think I have ever looked up to anyone like I have looked up to you before. I know you will get better because you are one of the strongest people I know. I will continue to pray for you and be there for Luis. You just keep resting so that when you do wake up you are as good as new. Well, Miguel and I are going to go now so that someone else can come in and see you.” Charity squeezed Sheridan’s hand when she was done and leaned down and kissed her cheek. Miguel did the same and whispered “I Love you” in her ear. Miguel wrapped his arm around Charity and they walked out and down to the waiting room. Once they got out to the waiting room, they noticed that Alistair, Katherine, Julian, and Ivy were there. Alistair and Katherine stood up to go in next. Luis started to stand up but decided to just let go all of the hate that he holds for Alistair right now. Katherine wouldn’t let him do anything to hurt Sheridan anyway. Luis watched as they headed back to her room

When Katherine and Alistair went into Sheridan’s room they both went to opposites sides of the bed. They each took her hand and just sat in silence for the longest time. Katherine was the first to speak. “Oh my darling Sheridan. I haven’t even been here for a two days and you are already in the hospital. When you were a little girl you were always falling down and getting hurt and I would have to give you a magical kiss to make the pain go away. Now I can’t kiss your hurt away because it is too big. You have to get better because I want to make up for all that lost time. Just remember that I will always love you and will always stand beside you.”

By this time, tears are falling down her face and Alistair walks over and puts his arm around his wife and pulls her into a hug. He held her there until she stopped crying. He found a chair and set it beside Sheridan’s bed He sat down and pulled Katherine into his lap and wrapped his arm around her. He took Sheridan’s hand into his other hand. He couldn’t think of anything to say to her so he just sat there holding his two women together. Finally, Alistair noticed the time and said they better let some one else in here. They walked back out to waiting room arm in arm. Out in the waiting room Sam and Grace had decided to go home with Miguel and Charity. They said they would keep the girls overnight for Theresa and Ethan. They both gave Luis a hug and told him they would be back tomorrow. After that Luis told Ivy and Julian they could go back next. So together they stood up and as much to Luis’ surprise Julian wrapped his arm around Ivy and took her other hand in his. Julian has never shown Ivy any type of compassion especially out in public.

When Ivy and Julian got back to Sheridan’s room, Ivy took Sheridan’s hand and Julian wrapped his arms around Ivy from the back. “Sheridan, you were like me own daughter when you were growing up. You had lost your mother and were looking for someone to pose as a mother figure for you and for some reason you choose me. I used to try and protect you from all the bad things that would happen to you. Now I can’t protect you anymore….you are grown girl and a beautiful one too. Ohh, how I wish I had been able to protect you from whoever did this to you. Just remember that we all love you and are pulling for you.” Ivy released Sheridan’s hand and turned around and cried into Julian’s shoulder. He wrapped his arms around his wife and comforted her. Julian began to sing a song that was very special to him and Sheridan. Ivy listened as her husband began to sing “Butterfly Kisses” to his sister. When he was done he leaned down and placed some butterfly kisses on her forehead and left the room. Ivy leaned down and kissed Sheridan on the cheek and went out to join her husband.

The only people left who hadn’t seen Sheridan yet were Ethan, Theresa, and Luis, so they all decided to go back together. Theresa and Ethan stood on one side and Luis took the other. As soon as Luis seen her, he broke down in tears of happiness. Ethan and Theresa talked to her for a little bit and then decided to give Luis a little time alone with her. Theresa told Luis that they would be out in the waiting room if there was any change. Luis took a deep breath and laid his head on Sheridan’s chest and let the tears fall. He soon fell asleep. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Three weeks went by with no change in Sheridan. Eve was beginning to worry about her. She had so many visitors. The doctors had told them that the more they talked to her the more it would help her. Everyone was talking to her all the time and when they ran out of things to talk about they would read to her from a book. Theresa was reading her a romance novel. Ethan, Luis, and Miguel read to her from sports magazines. Ivy, Katherine, Pilar, and Grace were keeping her updated on the latest developments in the soap opera world. Kay, Charity, Jessica, and Simone were reading her a mystery novel. Whitney was even singing to her. Julian and Alistair would read the newspaper to her. The only people that weren’t visiting her were the twins. The doctors wouldn’t allow them in.

One day Theresa managed to talk them, into letting her bring one of them into to see her. After about an hour of begging they finally agreed. Theresa decided to take in Emma, since her and Sher seemed to have a special connection. Theresa went home and gotten Emma ready to go. She dressed her in the light purple outfit that Sheridan had boughten her a week before the accident. It had a white bib on it that said “I Love My Aunt cause she spoils me.” Then they headed back to the hospital after dropping Emma off at the Bennett’s with Charity and Miguel. When they got to the hospital, they went right to Sheridan’s room. Luis was in there with her and Theresa cleared her throat to catch his attention. “Theresa you know she isn’t allowed in here.” He admonished her.

“Well, I have a surprise for you. I managed to talk the doctors into letting me bring her in here for a while. So we went home and got her ready and know we are here.” Theresa told Luis with her eyes shining. “Come here little munchkin” Luis said to Emma. Emma goes into Luis’ arms and coos at him. He gives her a kiss and walks over to the bedside. He lays her down on the bed and wraps Sheridan’s arm around her. He holds her head up and Theresa goes to the other side and takes Sheridan’s hand into her own. After sitting there for a long time, Theresa feels Sheridan squeeze her hand. Theresa and Luis look up together to see Sheridan open her eyes for the first time in 4 weeks.

To Be Continued…

Chapter 5:

“Sheridan, you’re awake!!! Let me go get the doctor.” Luis exclaimed. “No Luis, stay here. I will go and get the nurse. Keep an eye on Emma.” Theresa told him. Sheridan tried to speak but the tube in her throat stopped her from talking. Luis took her hand and looked in her eyes. “Don’t talk honey. There is a tube down your throat helping you breath. I am so glad you woke up. I don’t want to remind you of this but do you remember why you are in the hospital.” Luis told her. Sheridan nodded her head yes and immediately began to sob, which hurt her throat so it caused her to cry harder in pain. He leaned up and brushed to tears away from her face gently with his thumb.

“Sher, baby, I don’t blame you for being scared. I would be too, but from now on I am going to make sure nothing will ever happen to you. That is a promise I will make sure I keep from now until the day I die.” Luis said and leaned up to kiss her on the cheek. Emma decided that it was time to make her presence be known in the room and gave a shrill cry. Startled, Luis bent down and picked her up and quickly comforted her. Sher gave a small smile when she seen her niece. She half-motioned for Luis to put her down beside her. He laid Emma on Sher’s arm and supported Sheridan’s arm with his own. Emma looked up at her aunt and cooed with happiness. She snuggled into Sher’s side and closed her eyes. Tears began streaming down Sheridan’s face as she remembers what had happened. Theresa walked into the room with Dr. Petro on her tail.

“Well, Mrs. Lopez-Fitzgerald, it is nice to see you with your eyes open again. Now I am going to check your vitals and see how you are doing. Then, I will take that tube out of your throat and then you will be able to talk to your family and I am sure you will want to talk to this little cutie that is responsible for you waking up.” Dr. Petro said while she took Sheridan’s vitals. Dr. Petro then told Sheridan what to do while she took the tube out and then out came the tube. While Dr. Petro did all this Luis never once left go of Sheridan’s hand. “Now, I am going to have to ask everyone to leave the room because I need to examine Mrs. Lopez-Fitzgerald vaginally. You may all come back in as soon as I am done. It won’t take too long for this.” Theresa gathered up Emma and gave Sheridan a quick kiss on the check and left.

Luis began to leave the room but Sheridan’s blood pressure rocketed. “Don’t leave me, Luis. Please don’t go.” She begged in a hoarse whisper. Her hold on her hand became tighter and tears began to stream down her face. Luis looked helplessly at Dr. Petro, who nodded her head for Luis to go ahead and stay. Luis bent down and quickly gathered his wife in his arms and began to comfort her gently. When she calmed down Dr. Petro asked her to pull her legs as close to her as she could. Sheridan did this with great strength. Luis took a hold of her hand and began to whisper comforting words in her ear.

“Now I am going to examine you with out any equipment and then I am going to use a camera to examine your uterine lining and make sure that it is getting better. It will probably hurt a little but I am going to try and make this as painless as possible.” Dr. Petro began the examination. Luis began talking to Sheridan so that she wouldn’t concentrate but halfway through his little speech Dr. Petro hit a sore spot on Sheridan’s ovaries and she jumped a little and her grip on Luis’ hand became tighter. A few tears slid from her eyes and Luis quickly brushed them away with his thumb and began to talk to her again. Soon, the part without equipment was over and Sheridan became very tense. Dr. Petro inserted the little camera and it hurt a great deal.

Sheridan began to cry and wanted to put her legs down. Luis took noticed on how much pain she was in and bent down and kissed her on the lips. Sheridan responded and kissed back with all the pain that she was feeling. She still had tears running down her cheeks and Luis pulled her close and rubbed her back until the examination was over. “Every thing looks fine Mrs. Lopez-Fitzgerald. You should be able to leave the ICU in a few days and then you may leave the hospital two weeks after that.” And with that Dr. Petro left the room. After Dr. Petro left the room Sheridan whispered I love you to Luis. “I Love you too, sweetheart. Now you need to get some rest before everyone gets hold that you are awake and you get bombarded with guests.”

“Will you hold me please and stay here until I wake up.” She asked him in a child-like voice. She pulled his hand up to her lips and gave a kiss. “Of course Sweetheart.” Luis told her. He slid up on the bed and helped her get situated with out moving too much. She leaned her head on his chest and closed her eyes. “I love you Luis” She mumbled. “I love you always and forever Sher.” Luis replied. He kissed her on top of her ruley golden locks. He rested his head upon hers and closed her eyes. He soon to drifted off into a much need sleep. Luis awoke the next morning to a pair of blue sapphire eyes looking up at him. He leaned down to give her a kiss, which she responded to quickly. He deepened the kiss but soon remember where he was and why. He pulled back and gently said in a scolding voice. “You know you can’t be doing this, Sher honey.”

“Well, why in the world can’t I give my husband a good morning kiss?” She said giving him a puppy dog smile. “Well, you can give me as many kisses as you wish to but don’t be starting something you know we can very well finish.” Luis said. He pulled her as close to him as he could without hurting her. Just then one of the nurses came in to check Sheridan’s vitals. Once she was done the breakfast cart came and it held a few disgusting things on it. On the tray was an egg, toast, some cut up fruit, and juice.

Sheridan took one look at it and began to gag. Luis grabbed the bedside pan immediately and she leaned over and began to heave. Tears spilled out her eyes while she heaved. Luis rubbed her back in small circles until the heaves stopped. Exhausted she fell back against him crying. Oh how she hated throwing up. Luis leaned over and pushed the call button on the side of the bed. The nurse came in quickly to see what was wrong. Luis quickly explained what had happened and the nurse took away the food and the pan, Luis was holding. She brought back a glass of water and a new pan. She told Luis that she would tell the doctor what had happened. Luis helped Sheridan move into a half sitting position and handed her the water. Needless to say she didn’t want to drink it because she didn’t want to throw up again. Luis took her hand into his and pulled her to him.

“Sher, I know you hate throwing up but you need to drink this water and eat some things so that you can prove to the doctors you can hold things down. The sooner you can eat and drink the sooner you can get out of the ICU and the sooner you do that the quicker you will get to go home. Please just sip a little bit of this water for me. You don’t have to drink it all just a little bit at a time.” “Okay Luis, I will try.” Sheridan said sighing. She leaned back against him and took the glass of water into her shaking hand. She took a small sip and let it slide down her throat. Just swallowing hurt a great deal because her throat was still scratchy from the tube. She took another sip and reached for Luis’ hand while swallowing that one. She took a few more sips before deciding that she had enough. Luis set the glass on the bedside table. Sheridan looked very tired so Luis slid off the bed and onto the chair he had been using the night before.

“Sweetheart, why don’t you close your eyes for awhile? I promise I won’t leave you. You need to rest.” Luis told her. Sheridan knew herself that she was very tired and closed her eyes. She grasped Luis hand tightly and drifted off to dreamland. Luis sat there wondering how he was going to get through all of this. Just then there was a knock on the door and in came Theresa, Ethan and the twins. When they saw that Sheridan was sleeping, they started to back out but Luis motioned for them to stay put. He reached out his free arm and Ethan settled Anna in it. Ethan went and sat in the chair on the other side of the bed and Theresa settled in his lap.

“Luis, why don’t you go home and get a shower and grab a bite to eat. Ethan and I will stay here with Sheridan and I am sure you won’t be gone that long.” Theresa said after she saw how worn out Luis looked. Luis looked at Sheridan and contemplated what Theresa had said and decided that he did need to go home for just a little while. HE wouldn’t be gone long and if something was to happen they could call his cell.

“Thank you Theresa. I think that I will but please promise me you won’t leave her alone, She kind of freaks out and her blood pressure sky rockets which isn’t good for her or the baby. If something would happen you can call me on my cell phone. I will be back as soon as I can.” With that he stood up and gave Sheridan a kiss and Theresa came around and took Anna and Sheridan’s hand on that side and gave her brother a hug. Luis walked out the door feeling nervous about what he was doing but decided he need to do this and went out to the car. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Luis headed home as quickly as he could. He grabbed his clothes out of the bedroom and headed for the shower. He turned on the water as hot as he could stand it and stepped in. He let the water beat on his tired and aching muscles and for the longest time just stood there with his eyes closed. Soon the water turned cold and he was forced to wash and get out. He began to get dressed but realized just how tired he was. He picked up the phone and dialed Theresa's cell phone number but remembered that she wouldn't have it on in the hospital. So, he dialed Mama's number and hoped she was home. "Hello The Lopez-Fitzgerald Residence, Pilar speaking." Mama answered the phone. "Mama, hey it's Luis, I was wondering if I could ask you a favor." Luis asked his mother. "Sure, Luis anything. By the way how is Sheridan today?" She asked.

“Well, she is doing okay but she doesn't want to be left alone so Theresa sent me home to shower and change while she stayed with Sher. I didn't want to go but Sher had just fallen asleep and I already took my shower but I am so tired and I don't want her to see how tired I am so I was going to lay down and I was wondering if you could call me back in about an hour and make sure I am up?" Luis said. "Sure mijo, I will call you in an hour and I want you to make sure you eat something before you go to the hospital. You won't be any good to Sheridan if you are starving yourself. I Love you mijo." She said. "Thanks mama, I love you too. I will see you later." Luis told her.

He hung up the phone and took everything but his boxer's off. He grabbed the cordless phone and put it by his pillow so he would hear it when it rang. He lay down; he was asleep before his head hit the pillow. He slept contently for the next hour and soon the phone rang with Mama on the other end waking him up. He slowly got up and got dressed. He went downstairs and ate a sandwich and some chips. He grabbed one of the sports drinks out of the fridge and drank it quickly. He grabbed a few things for Sheridan for when she could change into her own pajamas. He threw them into a bag and headed out to the car.

On the way he stopped at the flower shop and picked up a purple rose for her. He went back to the car and headed to the hospital. He grabbed the flower and the stuff he got for her. He checked in at the nurse’s station and headed for her room. He saw that she was still sleeping and that so were Theresa and Ethan and Anna. Emma on the other hand was babbling away in her carrier at her momma's feet. Luis settles the stuff by Sher's night stand and picked Emma up and cradles her in his arm. He gave her his finger to hold and she latched on tightly. He leaned on the wall by the door and began to think what life would be like when he had a son or a daughter living with him 24/7.

Personally, he couldn't wait. He was also a little nervous and could tell that Sher was too. Oh how he missed going to bed with her each night. Suddenly he heard someone clear their throat and looked up and noticed that she was awake. He leaned over Theresa and gave her a kiss on the check. She untangled her hand from Theresa’s and reached out for his. Theresa felt Sheridan move her hand and woke up slowly. Theresa smiled at Sher, when she saw that she was awake. Theresa looked down at the floor and noticed Emma wasn't in her carrier anymore. Alarmed, she quickly stood up and turned around. She breathed a sigh of relief when she saw Emma with Luis. She reached out and Luis settles Emma in her arms and took Theresa's seat by Sheridan. He leaned up and gave Sheridan a kiss on the cheek and pulled the rose out from beside the bed. She gently pulled her hand away from Ethan and reached for the flower. She brought it up to her nose and smelled it. It smelled wonderful and tears began to well up in her eyes. She squeezed his hand.

"I Love you, Luis." She said. "And I love you, Sher-sweetie." Luis said. He leaned up to give her a kiss on the lips. Theresa started to head toward the door. When she felt someone tug on her hand. She looked down and realized Ethan was awake and so was Anna. Theresa placed Emma in her carrier and went to get Anna from Ethan. She put Anna in her carrier to. Then Theresa walked back over to Ethan and he pulled her into his lap. She leaned back against him and Ethan wrapped his arms around her. “I Love you Theresa.” He said. “I love you lots more Ethan.” *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

3 Weeks later

It was very early in the morning and Sheridan just couldn’t sleep, she had been having these pains in her back. She fidgeted around in the bed and tried to get comfortable when Luis walked in. He immediately noticed that she was very uncomfortable. He walked over and took her hand. “What’s wrong, sweetheart?” Luis asked her. “I don’t know I just can’t seem to get settle and then there is this sharp pain in my back.” She told him. “Well, do you want me to go get the doctor; maybe they can give you something for the pains.” He said. She nodded her head in response while another shot of pain went through her back. He went to let go of her hand when her grasp on it became tighter and she let out a whimper. Alarmed Luis looked at her. “Luis I think I am in labor.”

“You can’t be in labor you aren’t even 8 months yet.” “Well, I am.” Luis let go of her hand and headed out the door to get the doctor. He returned with Dr. Reed and Dr. Petro on his heels. Luis took Sheridan’s hand in his and he felt her grip get really tight as another pain rippled through her body. Dr. Reed quickly confirmed that Sheridan was indeed in labor. “How in the hell can she be in labor, isn’t this too early.” “Well, normally, we would think that this is early but with the entire trauma your wife has gone through a premature labor isn’t different.” Dr. Reed said. “Is my baby going to be okay?” Sheridan asked. “Well, it is hard to tell right now but she will definitely make it even though there may be a long road ahead of him or her.

Right now I am going to give you a shot and that should help relax you. Now this is not an epidural, it is a different kind of shot. Being that this is so close to your kidnapping you won’t be able to have an epidural because of the chemicals it puts in your body.” Replied Dr. Reed. She inserted a needle into the contraption on Sheridan’s hand and pushed the stuff into her blood stream. She and Dr. Petro then left the room. As soon as they left the room, Sheridan began to cry. “I can’t do this Luis, I know I can’t.” Sheridan said repeatedly. “Yes you can Sher, I know you can and I will be here every step of the way. I promise.” He pulled her into his arms and she continued to sob until the shot began to take effect and the pressure of being up all last night and everything that had happened today made her fall into a restless sleep.

When Luis figured that Sher was completely asleep, he laid her back on the bed and pulled the covers up around her. He took her hand and then reached for the phone that was lying beside her bed and called Momma. She answered the phone on the third ring and said. “Hello?” “Momma, it is Luis, Sheridan is in labor.” “What? She can’t be in labor, it isn’t time yet.” “Well, the doctors said that because of all the stuff that she has been through this is completely normal. Look momma, she just fell asleep so can you call Alistair and Katherine and tell them. I will call Ethan and Theresa and have them call Sam and Grace.”

“Yes mijo and you stay strong for Sheridan. She will need you more than you think during this. Goodbye mijo.” “Goodbye momma” Luis hung up the phone and looked back at Sheridan. She was still sleeping although he could see her flinch when a contraction came and went. This was going to be a long labor her thought. He picks up the phone and dialed Theresa’s number and waiting for her to pick up. “Hello?” Theresa said into the phone. “Theresa, hey it is Luis and I have to tell you something.” “What is it Luis, is everything okay?” “Well, Sheridan is in labor.” “She can’t be in labor, isn’t it too early?” “Well, yes it is too early but the doctor said that the baby should make it okay and that premature labors are normal in cases like Sheridan’s. Look I need you to call Sam and Grace and tell them what is going on. Momma should be talking to Katherine and Alistair right about now. She was coming as soon as she could.”

“Sure Luis, I will call them right away, and Ethan and I will be there soon, too.” “Thanks, bye sis.” “No problem Luis, bye.” And with that they hung up the phones. Dr. Reed came into check on Sheridan again and told Luis that she would probably be asleep for an hour or two if he wanted to go for walk or something. He decided that he wanted to go down to the chapel and told the doctor that if Sheridan woke up that they could find him there. Luis bent down and kissed Sheridan’s forehead and tucked the covers all around her. He turned down her lights and headed for the chapel. When he got to the chapel he knelt down in the back and began to pray.

“Lord, I know lately I have been asking for a lot but right now if there isn’t anything else you can grant me, I need this to be it. I need you to make sure Sheridan and the baby make it through this. I need her like water. I don’t know how I would go on with out her. I couldn’t stand waking up with out her in my arms or come home from work knowing that she wasn’t there anymore. Please Jesus just keep them safe and keep them here on earth. That is all I ask of you.”

Luis closed his eyes and began to sob. All the pressure of everything that had been happening lately came down and he let it all out with those hard soft racking sobs. He continued to cry for ten minutes. His tears slowly came to a stop and he stood up and decided he better head to the bathroom. He went and washed his face so that it wasn’t evident that he had been crying and walked out to the waiting room to see if anyone was there. Surprisingly no one was there yet and he decided that he would head back to Sheridan’s room to check on her. He noticed that she was beginning to stir and took his seat beside her bed and took her hand in his. He laid he head on her stomach.

Suddenly he felt a hand on his shoulder and turned around, it was Theresa, Ethan, and the girls. Theresa immediately noticed that Luis had been crying and handed Anna to Ethan and wrapped her arms around Luis tightly. “I don’t know if I can do this Resa.” “Sure you can you can do anything if you put your mind to it.” “Luis….” Sheridan moaned. Luis immediately sat down and took her hand in his. “What is wrong sweetheart?” “Luis get Dr. Reed something is wrong.” Luis got up and begins to go but Theresa stops him. “I will go and get her, you stay with Sheridan.” As Theresa is running to get Dr. Reed, Catherine and Alistair see her running and Katherine yells. “Why are you running Mrs. Crane, right? Is something wrong with my daughter.”

“Well, Mrs. Crane, Sheridan just woke up and told Luis that something was wrong and asked for the doctor. We figured it would be best just to hurry up and find her in case something is wrong. I am going to find the doctor, if you would like to come with me you may but if you would like to see Sheridan she is still in the same room.” Theresa said while turning and beginning to head in the direction of Dr. Reed’s, praying that she was in there. Theresa noticed that Katherine had followed her and slowed down to a faced paced walk that Katherine could keep up to. They reached Dr. Reed’s office quickly and Theresa knocked on the door.

To Be Continued…

Chapter 6:

As Dr. Reed opens the door, Theresa begins to pull her out. “What's wrong Theresa?” Dr. Reed says. Theresa starts to explain about Sheridan feeling like something wasn't right with the baby. “Well, then let's get down to her room.” Dr. Reed says. They quickly walk down to Sheridan's room. Sheridan is leaning over the side of the bed throwing up in to the pan Luis was holding. Tears were streaming down her face and she continued to heave. Katherine immediately went to her other side and when Sheridan sat back up, Katherine brushed the tears from her face. Dr. Reed begins to examine Sheridan while Katherine tries to calm her down. “I can't do this anymore, Momma! Sheridan says hysterically.

“Sheridan, honey, look at me. Yes, you can do this, you can do anything. You have made it this far, you can't quit now.” Katherine tells her. “Your mother is right Sheridan” Luis says as he takes her hands. “Just remember we all love you.” Theresa says. “Okay, I get the picture guys. I can do this as long as I am positive about it.” Sheridan says sheepishly. Luis bends down to give her a comforting kiss and she tightens her grip on his hands as another burst of pain ripples through her body. “Now that was a contraction, Sheridan. They will continue to get stronger as you draw closer to having the baby.”

Dr. Reed says. She looks over at the monitors and double checks everything that they are reading. “Other than that everything is okay. Try and get some rest because it seems like this is going to be a long pregnancy. I am going to check on my other patients and I will be back in a little while. Oh and also try and keep it down to about 2 or 3 visitors at a time, no more. Sheridan needs to stay as calm as possible.” And with that Dr. Reed left. “Well, how about we let Sheridan get some rest, Luis can stay in here but I think the rest of us should give them some peace and quiet. Luis, I will come in to see if there is any change every so often. Sheridan, sweetie, I am going to be out in the waiting room if you need me. Just remember to stay strong and that you can do anything in the world if you put your mind to it.” Katherine bends down and gives her daughter a kiss on her forehead, “I love you” she whispers in her ear.

“I love you too mommy.” Sheridan whispers back. Everyone began to leave the room. Ethan and Theresa were last and Ethan went and gave his aunt a kiss. They began to leave when, Sheridan stopped them. “Wait I want to give my favorite two nieces a kiss.” Theresa and Ethan smiled and walked over to the side of the bed and leaned over so that Sheridan could give Anna and Emma a kiss. Luis also gave both of them a kiss also. Then, they headed out to the waiting room. “Sher, I think you need to get some rest.” Luis says to Sheridan. Sheridan looks up to Luis with her blue sparkling eyes and sighs. “I will try to get some sleep but I think it would help if I was in the arms of my big strong husband. Do you know where he's at?” Sheridan said with a grin.

“In fact I think I do know exactly where he is at. He is right here. And he can't wait to hold his beautiful wife in his arms.” He said to her. Sheridan slid over a little and patted the space beside her in the bed. Luis settled down beside her and pulled her into his arms. She snuggled up to him as best as she could with her bulging stomach. As soon as she got settled a contraction came and she let out a whimper. Luis rubbed her back and when the contraction passed, she closed her eyes and breathed in the scent of Luis' cologne. He began to hum to her and she soon drifted off into a fitful slumber. Sheridan woke up a little while later as an extremely intense contraction went through her body. She let out a slight whimper, which awoke Luis from his half-asleep state.

“What, Sher, are you okay?” Luis asked her. Before she could answer Luis looked at the monitor that read the intensity level of the contractions. Right now she was on the level 5.5, which wasn't that high yet. He let her squeeze his hand until the contraction passed. A few tears began to slide down her cheeks, and Luis wiped the away. “Breathe, sweetie, in and out, in and out, deep slow breaths.” He stopped talking to lesten to her breathing. He then continued to talk to her through out the entire contraction. When in stopped he pulled her close to him until her ragged breathing calmed. He reached for the call button just as Dr. Reed was opening the door. “Hello, Sheridan, how are you feeling?” Dr. Reed asked her. “Well, other than being this huge and being in total pain, I am wonderful so far.” Sheridan responded with half a grin.

“Well, I am glad you are being so comical, but now I am going to check and see how much you have dilated.” She said. She quickly did the examination. “Well, you are dilated 4cms, and your contractions are about 8 min apart. You still have a while to go but you are progressing along quite nicely. If you need me for anything I will be in my office.” Dr. Reed told them. She then left the room. Sheridan leaned over to look into his eyes. “Luis, I love you so much.”

“I love you just as much Sher, sweetie.” Luis replied. They leaned over to give each other a heart-stopping kiss. Luis had just begun to deepen the kiss when another contraction went through Sheridan and she pulled away. Luis sighed and began to talk so that she would concentrate on him and not the pain. It passed quickly and she sunk back onto the pillows and looked up at Luis. “Sweetheart, will you go out and get your mother and my mother. I would like to see them for awhile, while I still have some energy. If you go now you should be back before another contraction comes.”

“Okay sweetie, I will be right back with Momma and Katherine.” Luis bent down and gave her a kiss and walked out of the room quickly. Sheridan laid her head back against the pillow and closed her eyes. She thought about how good Luis was being to her. She had to remember to thank him when she got out of this hospital. But first they had to have their beautiful child. She decided to say a prayer before they came back. “Dear God, please watch over me and my family. We need you right now. Please watch over my child and help me get through this.

I need you to help me cause I know I can't do this on my own. Also please let Luis know how much I am thankful for him. I don't know what I would do without him. Most men would just tell their wife to grow up and not act like such a baby but not Luis. He is so sweet and supporting and you know that there are going to be times when he will be so frustrated. Thank you for listen to me God.” As she opened her eyes she saw that Luis was standing over her with tears glistening in his eyes. She looked at him and mouthed I Love you to him.

To Be Continued…

Authors Note - Now that there are two mothers in the story, I have given them seperate "mom" names. Katherine will always be call mom, while Pilar will always be called Momma. So when you see mom, you will know that they are talking about Katherine. And when you see momma, you will know that they were talking about Pilar.

Chapter 7:

“I love you, too!” Luis mumbled. He leaned down to give her a kiss. She kissed back with all the pain that began to course through her, as her next contraction ripped through her body. When they pulled apart for air, Sheridan first noticed that her mothers weren’t there yet. “Where are mom and Pilar at?” Sheridan asked. “Well, I guess we were asleep longer than we thought because now it is dinnertime. Momma and Katherine went to eat first and now they sent Theresa and Ethan to go eat and take a little break from the twins. So they have the twins and they are being really fussy and momma didn’t want to bring them back, because she thought they might upset you.” Luis answered her.

“Well, I would like to see my nieces anyway. Maybe I can help calm them down. Go out and tell momma to bring them in anyway. Maybe they will help calm me down too. You can go now and you will be back before the nest contraction comes.” She told him “Okay, Okay I am going.” Luis walked out and soon walked back in with Pilar, Katherine, Emma, and Anna. “Come here, sweetie.” Sheridan said. Pilar handed her Emma, and Sheridan began to talk to her and she slowly began to calm down. “Here mom, hand me her bottle.” Sheridan said. Katherine handed her the bottle. Sheridan kept talking to Emma and slid the bottle up to her mouth.

She quickly took the nipple and began to suck. Halfway through the bottle a contraction went through Sheridan. Luis had been keeping an eye on the monitor and seen the contraction coming. Luckily, it wasn’t a very strong one. He reached over and took a hold of the bottle and took Sheridan’s now free hand in his and began to talk her through the contraction without alerting Emma that something was wrong. “Here maybe you should let me take her back.” Pilar said looking concerned. “No, no Pilar, she is kind of helping me stay calm. Emma and I have always had this special bond. She has just as much as much a claming effect on me, as I just had on her.” “Well, dear daughter I think you need to work some of that magic on Anna.” Katherine said kidding.

“Sure, mom as soon as Emma, here, crashes. This by the looks of things will be soon.” Emma finished her bottle and snuggled into Sheridan’s chest, and quickly fell asleep. “Luis tell me when the next contraction comes and I will hand her to you.” “Sure, sweetie, you have a few minutes if you want to close our eyes. You do need your rest.” “I know Luis but I don’t ant to sleep right now, I awant to enjoy these few precious moments with my niece.” “Okay, Okay.” Luis gave up and turned to look at the monitor. A few minutes later, Luis saw the contraction coming. He looked at Sheridan. “It’s coming.”

“Okay here, take her before I wake her up.” Sheridan said. Luis quickly took Emma and looked at the monitor and realized that this next contraction was a 7. Pilar noticed too, and went to Sheridan’s just as the contraction hit her. Pilar took her hand and let her squeeze. “Ohhhhhh…..it hurts momma, it does. Ooooooo….make it stop.” “Mija, shhhh. Look at me mija.” Pilar said softly so Sheridan would listen to her, which finally worked. “Breathe nice and deep, mija. Take some calm deep breaths.” Pilar continued to talk nonsense, just so Sheridan would concentrate on her. The contraction subsided and Sheridan took a deep breath. Anna took a deep breath to, and let out a shrill cry.

Startled Sheridan smiled. “Here hand her to me mom. Let me work some of my magic on her, now.” Katherine handed her to Sheridan. “Hey there Anna-girl. Were you getting jealous of your sister here? Well, not to worry cause your Auntie Sher will spoil you to pieces.” Anna stopped crying and began to listen to Sheridan’s sweet voice. “Yeah in a little bit you will have another baby around here. You are going to get a new cousin and when you are both older you will get to play together.

You can talk to her and tell her all of your problems. Yes, you just close your eyes and dream about all the fun you two will have.” Sheridan stopped talking when she saw that her eyes had been closed for awhile, but as soon as she stopped talking Anna’s eyes popped open and she began to whimper. “Ohhhhhh, you are going stubborn huh, well, let’s try this and see if it works.” Sheridan began to sing the lullaby that Pilar had sung to her when she was little and couldn’t sleep

Dormite, niñito; no llores chiquito
Vendrán angelitos las sombras de noche.
Rayitos de Luna, rayitos de plata
Alumbran mi niño que está en la cuna.

Pilar realized the song and tears filled her eyes. Luis knew the lullaby, too. For his momma had sung it to him when he was little also. Pilar walked over and Luis put his arm around his mother.

Rayitos del sol el cielo azul
Dejan dormir y empieza vivir.
Dormite, niñito, con ojos diamantes
Estrellas brillantes florido el cielo

Sheridan looked up and saw Pilar’s tear filled eyes and quickly turned away.

Now sleep, little baby; don’t cry, little darling
The angels are coming with shadows of evening
The rays of the moonlight spin fine threads of silver
To shine on my baby asleep in the cradle

The rays of the sun, the blue of the sky
Will wake you from dreams when morning is nigh
Now sleep, little baby, with eyes bright as diamonds
And brilliant as starlight that shines from the heavens

As she finished the song, Anna deep breathing was evident. “Mija that was beautiful.” Pilar said with pride in her eyes. “Thank you Momma.” Sheridan told her. Pilar leaned down and gave Sheridan a kiss. She gathered Anna and in her arms and settled her in the carrier. Katherine was beginning to realize how much she had missed in her daughter’s life. Just look at how many nights she missed putting her daughter to bed. She and Sheridan would never have any memories like this. She regretted everything that had happened to her all over again. Sheridan looked over at her mother and realized that she had to feeling weird.

“Luis, momma, do you think you could give me and my mom a few moments alone?” “Sure, sweetheart, if that’s what you want.” “Yes, Luis, it is, I will be fine.” “Mija we will take the girls with us, so you won’t be bothered.” “No, momma, please leave them here. Take some time off, you have been watching them for a long time. They have a way of helping me stay calm, so if you don’t mind just let them stay in here for awhile.” “Okay mija, we will go now.” Pilar leans down and gives Sheridan a kiss. Luis took her hand and kissed her softly on the lips. “I love you Sher, sweetie.” And I love you too, Luis, so so much.” Luis began to walk out when Sheridan said. “STOP!”

To Be Continued…

Chapter 8:

And I love you too, Luis, so so much.” Luis began to walk out when Sheridan said. “STOP!” “What?” Luis said. “Come on over here and give me a better kiss than that.” Sheridan replied. Luis smiled and walked back over and gave her a heart stopping kiss that lasted for a few minutes. They both told each other I love you and then, Pilar and Luis walked out of the room. Katherine sat down beside Sheridan and took her hand. She opened her mouth to speak but Sheridan put her hand up to stop her.

“Mom, I know what you are going to say and I don’t want to hear it. I know you missed my childhood and yes, I was sad when Mother’s Day or my Birthday would come around and you weren’t there to celebrate it. But, that couldn’t be helped; you had a life threatening disease. If you wouldn’t have went away back then, you wouldn’t be able to be around today and them you would miss your grandchildren growing up. I know that if you could have helped it, you wouldn’t have gone away. I don’t hate you and yeah, I do wish that you had been there when I had won that second grade spelling bee or when I sang my first solo in 6th grade. Except, I knew you were there because you were always in my heart. I would talk to you and tell you everything that had happened every night before I went to bed.” Sheridan, by this time, has tears streaming down her face and so did Katherine. Katherine leaned over and pulled Sheridan into a tight hug and whispered into her ear.

“I love you, Sherry. And I am sorry I wasn’t there for you all the time but I promised from now on I will always be here for you. No matter what Sherry.” Sheridan’s face twisted in pain as the next contraction flew through her body. Katherine hadn’t been paying attention to the monitor until now and began to talk to Sheridan and help her breathing. As soon as the contraction passed, Katherine looked at her. “I will go get Luis.” Sheridan smiled and nodded. Katherine left and was back as quick as lightening and Luis was at her heels.

“I am going to take the girls and go sit out in the waiting room with everyone else. You two need sometime alone.” Katherine said. Sheridan smiled and shook her head. Katherine walked over and gave her a kiss. “I love you, Sherry.” “I love you too, mom.” Katherine picked up the baby carriers and headed out to the waiting area. Luis took Sheridan’s hand and began to say something when another contraction started. It quickly passed and Sheridan closed her eyes trying to relax. He kissed her forehead and ran his hand down her other arm. She smiled and sighed.

“What’s wrong?” Luis asked. “I am just so scared, Luis. What if I can’t do this? What if I do something wrong and the baby gets hurt?” She continued to rattle on endlessly until Luis bent down and gave her a kiss. When they pared, she opened her mouth to say something, but Luis put a finger to her lips and shushed her. “Sheridan, nothing is going to go wrong. I promise you that. When, this is all over we will have our own perfect little baby in out arms.” She smiled in agreement.

“Luis, they told me that I could go for a little walk if I wanted. So, will you take me, please?” Sheridan said with that smile that Luis could never refuse to. “Sure, sweetie, do we have to tell anyone that you are going?” Luis asked her. “Yeah, you need to tell the nurses stations.” Sheridan smiled. “Okay, I will go tell them, you just close your eyes and I will be right back.” He bent down and kissed her. He headed out and told the nurses that he was going to take her for a walk. They said okay. He walked back into her room and smiled. She looked so peaceful lying there.

“Hey, sweetie, are you ready to go on your adventure?” “I am ready to go anywhere with you.” She replied sweetly. He took her hand and helped her sit on the edge of the bed. She had just started walking again a few days before, so Luis knew this was going to be hard on her. He helped her stand up and let her lean all of her weight on him. She took a deep breath and took a step forward. For her, this was very hard to do, since she hadn’t really used her legs much during the time she was in the hospital. She felt a contraction coming on and gripped Luis’ hand harder.

She began her breathing and the contraction soon passed. She took a few more steps and then stopped to take a breather. This continued till they reached the nursery, which was a little down the hall from her room. She let go of Luis’ hand and wrapped her arms around his waist. Luis pulled her close and rested his chin on top of her head. She sighed and closed her eyes. “Just think pretty soon, we will have a little baby in there.” “We sure will.” Luis replied. He kissed the top of her head. They stayed like that for a little while longer and then began to notorious trek back to her room. He helped her get settled. She closed her eyes but they soon popped back open.

“AHHH…..Luis, I think my water just broke!” “What??? Oh, okay, I will go get the nurses.” Luis scurried out to the nurses station and told the first nurse he found. The nurse said she would get Dr. Reed. Luis went back and settled in the chair and took Sher’s hand. “I’m scared Luis.” Sheridan said in a childlike voice. Luis looked into her eyes and saw the fear in them. She turned her head away as if she were ashamed of herself.

“Sher, look here, you will be fine and there no reason you can’t be scared. It is normal. Just remember that I will be here for you the entire time and that I love you no matter what and I always will.” Luis said. “I know, Luis, and I think if you weren’t here, I wouldn’t be able to do any of this on my own.” “Well, you don’t have to worry about that for a long time cause, I don’t plan on going anywhere for a long, long, time.” Luis leaned up and kissed her forehead. Dr. Reed knocked on the door and came in.

“I heard someone in here is ready to have her baby.” Dr. Reed said smiling. Smiling slightly, Sheridan shook her head yes. “Okay well, let’s check you and then you should be able to start pushing.” Sheridan took a deep breath and settled so that Dr. Reed could check her. Her grip on Luis hand became tighter and he gently squeezed her hand and smiled. Dr. Reed did the examination quickly.

“Well, you can begin pushing. So on your next contraction. I want you to take a deep breath and push for about ten seconds, okay?” Dr. Reed instructed Sheridan. Sheridan nodded her head. Then, Dr. Reed and Luis helped Sheridan settle her feet in the stirrups. Luis looked up and saw a contraction coming. Sheridan locked her grip on Luis hand. “Ready, Sheridan, Push.” Dr. Reed said.

“1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10” Luis counted for her. Sheridan let out a sigh. The next contraction came quickly and they repeated the process. This continued for about an hour and a half. “Okay, Sheridan the head is almost out, give me one more good, big, push.” Dr. Reed coached.

“I can’t, I just can’t.” Sheridan moaned. “Sher, look at me. Yes, you can. Do it for me, okay?” Luis told her. She nodded her head and took a deep breath. She pushed with all her might. “Okay the head is out, now give me one more little push and you will have yourself a new baby.” Dr. Reed announced. Sheridan gave one last push and the baby came out. “Congratulations, you have yourself a new baby………

To Be Continued...

Chapter 9:

“You have yourself a beautiful baby girl!” Dr. Reed laid the baby on Sheridan’s stomach. “She’s beautiful.” Sheridan choked out. She had tears streaming down her face. “She sure is, sweetie.” Luis murmured. Sheridan ran her hand along the baby’s face and wiped away her tears. “We need to take her and get her checked but then the nurse will bring her back.” Dr Reed said. They took the baby and began to clean Sheridan up. “I am so proud of you, Sher; I love you so so much.” Luis said. He leaned down and kissed her. “I love you, too.” “Okay, Sheridan, we are going to move you to a regular room, now. When you get settled the nurse will bring your daughter to you.” They transferred Sheridan to a different room and she quickly got settled. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

While, they moved Sheridan, Luis headed out to the waiting room. As soon as he walked out everyone stood up. Everyone began bombarding Luis with questions. He raised his hand and yelled. “QUIET!” Everyone hushed up. “Sheridan and I have a brand new baby girl. They are both okay and they are getting settled Sher settled in her new room. You guys can take turns coming in, in about a half an hour. I got to go get back to Sheridan now.” Everyone quickly hugged Luis and congratulated him and sent their best wishes to Sheridan. Luis thanked them and headed back to her room. When he walked into Sheridan’s room, Sheridan lay propped up with a little pink bundle resting in her arms. Sheridan smiled when Luis walked in the room and walked over and settled beside her bed. “So, how are you feeling, sweetie?” Luis said. “Well, a little tired but very, very happy.” She replied. “Did you tell the nurses her name yet?”

“No, I wanted to make sure we were still going to use that name.” “Yeah, as long as that’s what you want to do.” “Yeah, that is good.” “Well, then welcome to the world, Gabriella Katherine Lopez-Fitzgerald.” Gabriella opened her eyes and looked around. Just then there was a knock on the door. “Come in.” Luis called softly. The door slowly opened and in walked Pilar, Katherine, Alistair, Miguel, and Charity. Sheridan smiled at them with happy tears in her eyes. Everyone began to talk and ask questions at once. Smiling, Sheridan began to try and answer them but couldn’t keep up with all of them. Luis raised his hand in the air and said. “Slow down guys, one at a time. Now, momma would you like to hold your granddaughter?”

“Yes, mijo, I would love to.” Pilar replied. She walked over to Sheridan and she gently placed Gabriella in Pilar’s arms. “Pilar, I would like you to meet your grand-daughter, Gabriella Katherine Lopez-Fitzgerald.” Sheridan told her. “Why, hello there Gabriella, aren’t you precious? How about opening your eyes so I can see all of you? Sheridan, how much did she weigh, she isn’t very heavy at all?” “Well, she weighed 3lbs. 10oz. and she was 15in. long. Dr. Reed said she has awhile to go before she is up to normal weight and can leave the hospital. But, then again, I have another week or two before I am allowed to leave.” “Here momma, let me hold my niece.” Said an anxious Miguel. Miguel sat in the chair on the other side of Sheridan’s bed and Charity stood behind him. Pilar placed the baby girl in his awaiting arms. He ran his free hand along her downy soft hair. “Hey Gabriella, I’m your uncle Miguel. You are so cuter, you are going to be just like your mother, extra, extra pretty. And when you are older, you daddy and I will teach you how to play basketball and all other kinds of things.”

“And your mommy and I will teach you all the girly things in life. She is beautiful guys!” Said Charity. “Thank you Charity.” Luis said. “Okay, now it is my turn to hold my beautiful granddaughter.” Katherine said. “Okay, okay, I guess, I can give her up.” Miguel said. He stood up and walked over to Katherine and laid little Gabriella in her arms. Alistair wrapped his arm around his wife’s shoulder. “Oh, Gabriella, you look just like you mother did when she was born. Big, blue eyes and just a teeny tiny bit of hair. You were and are both absolutely beautiful.” Katherine said. “You are definitely like your mother.” Alistair agreed. Katherine held her for a little longer and then placed her back into her mother’s arms. Katherine bent down and gave her daughter a kiss on the cheek and whispered I’m proud of you in her ear.

Alistair leaned down and gave her a quick hug and kissed her forehead. Pilar, Miguel, and Charity all gave them both hugs and then all five of them left the room. This went on until Sheridan’s eyelids began to droop. Finally, Luis shooed everyone out of the room and gathered Gabriella in his arms. “Get some rest.” Luis told Sheridan. “Will you stay here?” Sheridan said sheepishly. “Of course sweetie, I will stay here as long as you want.” “Good.” Sheridan grinned. Luis walked over to the baby bed laid his sleeping daughter in the bed. He walked back over and Sheridan settled herself on her side. Luis sat down and took her free hand. She shook her head and pulled her hand away. She patted the bed beside her.

“Sheridan you know I am not allowed to do that.” “Yes, you can, Dr. Reed said not to do anything that would unsettle me or cause me to become upset. Now this is not going to do either so come here and hold me so I can rest peacefully.” “Okay.” Luis slid onto the bed and Sheridan slid as close to him as she could and laid her head on his chest. He wrapped his free arm around her and rested his chin on the top of her head. “I love you.” They both said. Sheridan quickly drifted off to sleep and Luis pushed the call button. The nurse came in and Luis asked her if they could take the baby to the nursery. She agreed and took Gabriella to the nursery. Luis drifted off to sleep quickly knowing that his wife and daughter were safe.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 10:

"I think you should wake me up like this more often." “ Well, I think that could be arranged.” Luis said bending down to give her another kiss but was interrupted by a knock on the door. One of the nurses came in carrying a small crying bundle. "I think someone was a little hungry and wanted her mommy and daddy.” The nurse said with a smile. She placed Gabriella in Sheridan's arms and showed her how to help Gabriella find the nipple. Sheridan and Gabriella both caught on quickly and Gabriella began to suckle greedily. The nurse smiled and headed out of the room.

"You know she really is just like her mother.” Luis said. "If you say so, sweetheart. I do think you need to go home though. Get a shower, change your clothes, and grab something to eat.” Sheridan told him. "No way, I can't leave you here alone.” Luis said shocked. "No, you go and I will be fine. It will only be for a little bit and Gabby will be here with me. I need to start spending some time by myself, you know. Besides, I want to spend a little time with my daughter before everyone gets here."

"Well, I want to spend some time with my girls, too." "Well, then quit arguing with me and get going. If you hurry you can be back before anyone comes." "Alright, Alright! I give up. I will go home and get cleaned up." "I knew you would see my ways sooner or later.” Sheridan grinned and leaned up to kiss him goodbye. "I love you Luis, and be careful!"

"I will and I love you too, both of you!” Luis gave them both a final kiss and headed home. ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ Later, the guests began to arrive. The first ones were Ivy and Julian. "Hello, little sister. How are you today?” Julian said.

"A lot better now that I have had some rest. Come here so you can hold your niece, I know you did not get to hold her yesterday.” Smiling, Julian walked over and accepted the little bundle in h is arms. With her eyes glistening, Sheridan watched her newfound brother and her daughter bond. Just then, Luis walked in the room. He was carrying a bouquet of flowers. In addition, he was holding something behind his back.

"Ummmm...can any of you tell me if my beautiful wife and daughter are here?” Luis said smiling. "I think they are right here actually!” Sheridan answered him. “Oh geez, I didn’t see them, Hi Honey!” Luis said to Ivy while bending down in front of her. Sheridan and Ivy began to laugh and Luis walked over to Sheridan’s bed and gave her a kiss. He handed her the bouquet of flowers, but kept the other things behind his back.

“Luis, they are beautiful!” She exclaimed. “I am glad you like them but I have something else for each of you.” “Oooooo….Let me see, let me see!” Sheridan exclaimed excitedly. Luis grinned and pulled a Boyd’s Bear out from behind his back. The bear was white and held a navy blue heart that said, “Moms are angels in disguise.” Sheridan read the bear with tears in her eyes

“Yes, angel, now you are an angel to me and to Gabby.” Luis told her sweetly. She leaned up and they kissed each other tenderly. Then, he turned to Julian who was still talking with Gabby. “Now for you my little princess, I have something special.” He pulled a small light pink fluffy lamb from behind his back. When you turned the knob on the side, the lamb played “The Twilight Song.” He wound the lamb up and gathered his daughter in his arms. He let the music play and she snuggled into his chest.

“This was the song, abuela sang to me when I was little.” Luis told his daughter, whose eyes drooped. “Well, I can see how much effect I have on you princess.” Luis chuckled. “I am sure she loved it sweetheart. I sure loved mine to pieces.” Sheridan smiled at Luis. “I am glad that you like it.”

“Luis, I would like anything you gave me.” Luis walked over and laid Gabby in her mommy’s arms. Julian and Ivy said their goodbyes. Luis walked them out to their car. When he came back, Sheridan and Gabby were both sleeping. Luis sighed and gathered gabby into his arms. Sheridan squirmed a little and opened her eyes. Panicked, she began to sit but Luis stopped her.

“Hey, hey, angel, it was just me.” Luis said to her in a soothing voice. Sheridan looked at him with tears in her eyes. “Oh, Luis, I got so scared. I thought they came back for me.” She said while beginning to tremble. Luis grabbed the portable crib and laid Gabby in it. He pulled the crib beside the bed. He sat down beside Sheridan and pulled her into his arms.

“Angel, I promise you not a single soul is going to get you again, as long as I am around.” Sheridan picked up her tear-streaked face and looked at him. “I know, Luis, but I am just so scared. What if they come back to finish the job they started.” “Angel, I promise you that I will not let a single soul get to you. Sam is already deep into this investigation and I am sure that he will get to the bottom of this soon.”

"What if he doesn't and whoever did this comes back and...." Her voice stopped and she began to cry so hard that she could not speak. He pulled her as close to him as he could and began to rub her back in small soft circles. "Sher, you have to trust me on this one. I swear to you, that no one will ever, ever take you from me again. We will get through this together. I love you Sherry-Angel, and I always will, from now until the day I die."

"I love you too, Luis, and I am so so, thankful for all that you do for me." "Shhh.....I don't need any thanks, just let me hold you for now." "I think I can do that." Sheridan said managing a smile. She snuggled into Luis feeling as safe as safe can get. Luis kissed her forehead and sighed. He vowed to himself that he would figure out who did this to his family and make them pay. Sheridan quickly fell asleep in his arms Luis laid with her until he heard Gabby's soft cry. He gently eased his way off the bed. He walked over and picked Gabby up, she quieted down, but he could tell something was still wrong.

"Hey, little princess, what's wrong? Do you need a little changing? Well, let’s see what we can do about that." Luis laid Gabby down and quickly changed her diaper. He scooped her back up. She quit fussing and he began to walk around the room with her. She had her eyes open and looked up at her daddy. "Well, it looks like you don't plan on sleeping anytime soon, so why don't we take a walk so your mommy can rest peacefully." He quickly wrote Sher a note telling her where they were in case she woke up. He picked Gabby's extra blanket up and wrapped it around her. He slowly opened the door and headed out into the hall.

They walked down towards the nursery and stopped there for a while. Then, they headed down towards the chapel were Luis lit a candle for the safety of his family. Gabby's eyes began to droop by that time so Luis decided to make one more big loop around the floor, then head back to Sheridan's room. Meanwhile, Sheridan began to wake up. She quickly noticed neither Luis nor Gabby were there and began to panic but then she seen the note and relaxed. There was a knock on the door.

"Come in." Sheridan called. Sam, Grace, Jessica, Reese, and Kay came in. "Hi, everyone!" Sheridan said happily. She pulled herself up and Grace helped her get a pillow behind her back. "Hi Sheridan, how are you feeling?" Sam asked her. "I think I am doing pretty good considering." She told them.

"Where are Luis and Gabriella at?" Jessica asked. Jessica, who looked up to Sheridan a lot, was somewhat shy. Therefore, everyone was surprised to hear her ask a question. "Well, it seems that Gabby was up and fussy, so Luis took her for a walk so that I could sleep." Sheridan said smiling at the young girl. "I am sure he will back soon, and you can all hold her." "Oh, not me, I would be too nervous." Reese said.

"You can help me hold her, Reese." Jessica said nervously. "Geez, I leave for twenty-five minutes and there is a party going when I get back." Luis exclaimed as he walked in the door. Sheridan grinned. "Well, our little princess has some admirers that would love to see her." Sheridan said glowing from ear to ear. "Well, then, who is going first."

"Ummm...I think Jessica is the most anxious so we will let her go first. Why don't you come sit over here by me Jess, Reese you come stand beside her?" Sheridan suggested. Jessica shyly headed over to the bed with Reese behind her. Sheridan slid over making room for Jess who sat down and got ready to hold the tiny baby. Luis walked over and placed his daughter in Jess's arms. He walked over to the other side of the bed and put his arm around his wife. At first Jessica, was in awe of the tiny baby but then Gabby opened her blue eyes and looked up at Jess.

"Hey there, Gabriella, I'm Jess. You are soo adorable. You have the tiniest little hands and fingers. Oooooo....I see someone is still sleepy. You just go right ahead back to sleep." "Actually, she should be hungry. The nurse must have brought a bottle in for me earlier. Do you want to feed her, Jess?" Sheridan said smiling. "Sure, if you don't mind if I do." Jessica said eagerly.

"Nope, you can do it." Luis told her. He got the bottle, tested to see if it was still warm, and then handed it to her along with a burp rag. Jess quickly feed Gabby and reluctantly handed her over to Kay. Kay was just as in awe of her as Jess was and had a hard time handing her over to Grace to hold. Grace held her for a while and then let Sam take his turn. Sam held Gabby and then handed her over to Sheridan who was talking to everyone. Sam's eyes caught Luis and signaled to him that he needed to talk to him privately.

"Hey, does anyone want a drink?" Luis asked. "Umm...can I have a tea?" Sheridan asked Luis. He nodded and Sam took the rest of the orders and they headed out to retrieve what everyone wanted. "Sam, what is wrong? I can see it on your face." Luis said nervously. "It is about the investigation Luis. It seems that we have found out who did it." Sam said gravely.

"Well, who it is Sam? Tell me who did this to my family." Luis said somewhat loudly. "Calm down buddy. You have to promise me you won't take off when you find out, okay?" "I promise, Sam, just tell me!" "Okay, Luis, the person who did this to Sheridan was.............................

To Be Continued...

Chapter 11:

“Luis the person who attacked Sheridan was Hank!” Sam said. “WHAT!!!” You mean the person who is your brother and my supposed best friend is the one who attacked my wife and almost killed our baby girl!” Luis said in a loud voice. Sam looked at his buddy w/ sorrow in his eyes and sadly nodded his head. Luis began to pace back and forth muttering to himself.

“How could I have let this happen? I trusted him with so much. What was I thinking? Why didn’t I….” Luis stopped when Sam grabbed him and stopped his pacing. “Luis you need to pull yourself together. I know this is a shock to you but you cannot let Sheridan see what is going on. Not until we have him behind bars.” “You mean that the man who almost killed my wife and daughter is out on the loose!” Luis screamed.

Just then, Grace came out of the room to see what was wrong but neither of them seen her until she heard what was going on. “Luis, calm down, I promise you I will find Hank and I won’t let him do anything to Sheridan and Gabby ever!” “Sam…tell me it isn’t true!” Grace gasped.

“I’m sorry sweetie, but it is…Hank was…err…is Sheridan’s attacker.” “Oh my gosh…Luis I’m so so sorry but you guys need to keep your voices down cause if Sheridan hears you, who knows what she’ll do. She did date the guy you know. And her condition isn’t exactly the greatest right now.” “Oh god...Sam I have to tell her. She needs to know.”

“I know you want to tell her Luis but you need to wait a few days at least. At least until you have calmed down about it. If you are this angry when you tell her, she will just be more scared.” “Okay, Sam, I guess your right.” Luis sighed in disgust of realization. “You two better go down and get the drinks before Sheridan realizes something is wrong.” Grace said.

“Okay sweetie, we’ll be right back up here.” Sam said as he and Luis turned to head down to the café. Grace headed back into Sheridan’s Room and closed the door behind her. “Grace, what was going on out there?” Sheridan said quizzically. “Nothing, I thought I heard the guys coming and figured I would go out and see if they were handling them okay. I guess that wasn’t them though.” Grace said. She walked over and picked a sleeping Gabby up out of Jessica’s arms. Jessica kinda look angry at her mother with that but soon forgot about it.

“Miguel, Charity, Reese, Jess, Kay, why don’t you go ahead down and get your drinks from your dad and then grab something to eat. It is getting close to lunch time. I have some tomato soup cake at home for later so don’t eat too much!” She said. They all nodded their heads, said their congratulations and goodbyes and headed out the door. “Okay Grace, now you can tell me what you were really doing in the hall.” Sheridan said.

“Honestly Sheridan I wasn’t doing anything. I honestly thought the guys were out there.” “Okay, Okay, I guess, I believe you, Now let me see my gorgeous daughter.” Sheridan said grinning at Grace. Grace placed Gabby in her mommy’s arms when there was a knock on the door. Luis peered his head around the corner. “Ummm….is there by any chance a beautiful Mrs. Lopez-Fitzgerald and a little miss Lopez-Fitzgerald in here.” He said teasingly.

“Oh Luis, you know how much we love you!” “Sheridan, Sam and I are going to give you two some time alone.” Grace said. “Yes, we are. Sheridan you take care, okay? I want to be visiting you at home next time okay?” Sam said while giving her a hug. “Yes, that is right!” Grace grinned and leaned down to give her a hug, too. Sam wrapped his arm around Grace’s shoulder and they headed out and down to the café to pick up the kids and head home to talk about what had been found out today.

“You know she looks just like you?” Luis said to Sheridan while gazing at the small figure laying in his wife’s arms. Sheridan grinned up at him and smiled with a yawn. “Well, it looks like it is time for your mommy to take a nap, huh, Miss Gabby-Lynn!” Luis said gathering his daughter up from his wife’s arms. “But, but…..”

“No, buts Sher, You need your rest so you can get out of here, you heard Sam and Grace! Next time, they want you at home….and so do I” He said leaning down to kiss her softly. “Alright, Alright…but please don’t leave me, please.” She said sounding sort of scared. “Oh…sweetie, I would never leave you, you know that.” He leaned down and kissed her forehead and tucked the covers around her, as she snuggled into them. Sher slipped her hand outward toward Luis and he let her hold on and she quickly drifted off to sleep.

Luis settled down in the chair next to her bed and began to think. He had to figure out away to tell Sheridan without upsetting her too badly. Finally, he decided that he would just tell her later when she woke up. He figured he better tell her before she picked up on it or someone else told her. Just then Sheridan began to toss and turn in her sleep. Her grip on Luis’ hand became tighter and he wonder what she was dreaming about.

“No…NO…Let me go!” She began to say frantically. “Sher, Sher,…….Sweetie, wake up, it was just a bad dream.” Luis said while shaking her. Sheridan’s eyes suddenly popped open and she looked around bewildered. Then, she saw Luis and stopped squirming in his grasp. She began sobbing and collapsed in Luis’ arms.

“Shh…sweetie…shhhh…you’re safe now. I’m here with you and no one is going to hurt you.” Luis said softly while slowly rocking them back and worth. “Oh god, Luis, it was horrible.” She choked out. “Shhh…Sher, whatever your dream was about your safe here with me.” “Luis, promise me you’ll never let him get me again.” “Who, sweetie, who?”

“My attacker, oh please promise me.” “Sher is that what you were dreaming about?” She shakily nodded her head against his chest. “Do you wanna tell me about it, sweetie? Maybe it will help you calm down.” Luis said gently. “I don’t know Luis, it was just so scary. I don’t know if I wanna go back thre again.”

“Well, why don’t you tell me and if it gets too bad you can stop. I promise.” “Okay, I guess, I can try for you.” Luis raised the head of the bed and they leaned against the back. Sheridan settled in Luis’ arms and took a shaky breath.

“Okay, I err…..we had just returned from the hospital. You had taken Gabby up to her room while I rested on the couch. I had just lain back when he walked into the room. “You thought you were safe her, didn’t you? Well, you thought wrong missy. I am going to finish you once and for all. No more Mr. Nice Guy. I’m going to get you the long painful way.” He said to me.” Sheridan started in shake in Luis’ arms. “Sweetie, maybe you should stop.” Luis said sounding concerned.

“No…I have to finish this now. Then, he grabbed me, blindfolded me, and gagged me with a cloth. He took me outside, and then he threw me into his car. We drove for awhile and when we stopped, he pulled me out. He took me in and ripped my clothes off. Then, he threw me on the ground and tied me hands and feet to these poles on the ground. And then………he…….he raped me. Oh Luis it hurt so much but he didn’t care and I screamed the whole time. After he finished his business He looked me in the eye and said, “ I finally got my wish to make love to you!”

Then, he pulled out a knife and cut three slashes on the inside of each of my legs close to that area and on my arms. Then, he left. Blood kept pouring out and no matter how hard I tried I couldn’t get free. That must have been when you woke me up. LUIS, in my dream, I know who attacked me! I could hear his voice! Luis, it was HANK….HANK did this to me….I know he did! Luis you gotta catch him and make sure he doesn’t hurt me again. Luis please promise me..please..I can’t lose you again…please.” She started to cry and Luis just pulled her close still amazed at what she had just told him. After a long time she finally calmed down and Luis decided it was time to tell her the truth. “Sher, there is something I need to tell you.”

To Be Continued...