The Heart Never Lies

Chapter 1:

Sheridan scurried into the cottage, shopping bags filling one hand and a cup of Dunkin Donut's hazelnut coffee in the other. With a smiled spread across her face, her eyes searched the room for Luis. "Luis...?" No answer. "Luis...?" She echoed happily. Still no answer. "That's strange... he said he'd be here.", she thought out loud. Shrugging to herself, she made her way to her bedroom, placing the bags down carefully beside the bed and the coffee cup on her night stand.

Sheridan couldn't wait for the events to come tonight. She was having the hardest time keeping it to herself after her appointment with Eve this morning. She had been fighting the urge to call Luis all day, and tried shopping to distract herself. It worked to some extent, but she was still counting down the minutes to tell him, and to witness the express on Luis' face when he learned he's was going to be a father. She knew how much having children meant to the both of them, and whereas this was a bit unexpected, she couldn't be happier.

Fiddling through her closet for a moment, she pulled out her dress she decided on for the evening. It was a long, white gown, with spaghetti straps, and a low cut back, revealing just enough. The gown was fitted at the top and loosely flowed down, showing off her curves slightly, but still enough to cover the small bump where their baby was growing. A white wrap completed the outfit. Her gown, along with that famous pregnant glow, made her look more angelic than ever.

Glancing at the clock, she realized Luis was twenty minutes late for their date. It was very unusual for him to be late, especially tonight, when he made the event seem so important. She looked up at the clock once more before picking up the phone and dialing his number.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Reclining back in his leather chair, with his feet crossed comfortably, a smug grin took over his face. The black cat jumped on his lap as he let out a hearty laugh. The sparking blue eyes staring at him from the desk in front only fed his laughter as he scooped up the picture in his hand. "If only you had listened, dear. If only." Alistair shook his head as he put the picture back in its place. His eyes met the screens above, displaying the local Harmony citizens daily lifes and activities.

In the far left corner was the cottage. He watched as Sheridan hung up the phone and sat on the couch, tapping her fingers on the coffee table, looking at her watch every other minute. "I wouldn't count on that date of yours, Sheridan, my dear. Officer Lopez-Fitzgerald is the last person you'll want to see before the night is through..." He let out a vindictive laugh as he hit the speakerphone, in quest to reach his idiotic, good-for-nothing son.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The tape continued to replay through Luis' mind. How could his life change so drastically in one moment? A simple phone call turned into a major disaster. 'Oh, God!... I killed Martin Fitzgerald. I killed Luis' father!' The words cut through him like a knife. The woman who he loved more than anything in the world, killed the one person he had looked up to all his life. Why? Why was the only thought that could come to thought at the moment.

So many questions filled his mind. Why did it have to be Sheridan? Why did she have to kill his father? Why had Eve lied to them about the hypnosis tape? What would Mama think? What about Theresa and Miguel? Out of all the women in the world, why did he have to fall in love with the one who took his father away from him?

It was all too much for him to bare. Too many questions that had to be answered. Covering his eyes with his hand and taking a deep breath, he pulled out his cell and called Sam. "Harmony PD. Chief Bennett speaking." "Sam. It's Luis." His voice was shaking and barely audible, trying to hold back tears. "Luis? What's wrong? I can barely hear you..." "It...it's... Sheridan." "Sheridan? What about her? Was she hurt?" "No... I mean... no." He could barely think straight, having to force the next words out -- the painful words.

"I... I need you to send some men over to the cottage..." He paused. The next words were almost unbearable and he got them out as quickly as he could. "For...for her arrest in killing Martin Fitzgerald." A lone tear trickled down his cheek as he forced the words out of his mouth.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 2 :

Sam gasped lightly on the other end of the phone. "...What? Luis... what are you talking about?" Sam was more than stunned. Wiping away his single tear, he pulled the small, black tape recorder from his coat pocket. Pressing play, he held it to the phone. "Oh, God!... I killed Martin Fitzgerald! I killed Luis' father!" Sam listened in awe as Sheridan's voice sounded over the phone and then went on to Eve trying to console her. Luis quickly pressed stop, he couldn't bare to listen anymore. "What the hell was that?!" Sam asked in disbelief.

"It was a tape from when Eve hypnotized Sheridan. It was sent to me anonymously this afternoon -- left in the mailbox at Mama's..." Luis wanted so much to be furious with Sheridan, but he couldn't be. He loved her too much, and it killed him to have her arrested, but there was no other choice. "Listen, I'm really sorry. I'll have some men sent over right away. Just go home and relax."

Relax - ha. That was the last thing Luis could do right now. Gazing out into the harbor, he stuck his cell back in his pocket, along with the recorder. Reaching into the other pocket, he pulled out a tiny black box. Tears glistened in his eyes as he stared at the object inside. The beautiful diamond ring that lay inside was reflecting the moonlight. As it sparkled, Luis closed his eyes and imagined what it would have been like slipping it on Sheridan's finger tonight. His eyes opened once again and the sparkling of the ring immediately reminded him of Sheridan's bright blue eyes.

Suddenly, an image of the fear in those eyes as his colleagues came in to escort her away replaced the previous one. It made his heart ache and he quickly put the ring back in his pocket. He needed to go somewhere... the place he always went when things became too difficult to face, and right now, beer was the only thing that was remotely appetizing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Julian's arms pulled back ever-so slowly, just giving him the leverage needed to get the ball in the hole. The phone sounded loud, nearly giving him a heart attack, as the golf club went flying into the air. Feeling for his heart, making sure it was still there, he looked up to find where the club went. A crashing noise, accompanied by the sound of glass shattering, had drawn his attention to the broken picture on his desk.

"You always could break glass with that stare..." He murmured to the broken picture of his wife. Hitting the speakerphone, he put on a phony, yet pleasant voice. "Hello?" "Julian! Do you realize that while you're shattering glass, there are earth shattering events going on right in the cottage?" Julian looked stumped. "Oh, yes, I'm wonderful, Father. And you?" "Julian, this isn't time for your insolence. Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald was given the tape this afternoon. I was sure he would never send her to jail. Damnit!" He slammed down a snow globe on his desk.

"I see Officer Lowlife-Fitzgerald has spoiled our plans once again?" Julian was awful cocky for a man who could be sent to jail at any moment. "Do you know what this means, Julian? Do you have any idea what's going on in that pea-brain head of yours? They'll take your sister in for questioning... once they're through, they'll search the mansion. If they find ANYTHING pertaining to the disappearance of Martin Fitzgerald it could be the end as we know it... well, for you anyway. They'll never find me."

Julian's face suddenly went pale. "Julian, I want you to destroy ALL the evidence in the safe... NOW." Julian huffed and rolled his eyes. "Yes, Father." He replied obediently. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Sheridan paced around the livingroom tiredly. He was an hour late now and there was no sign of him anywhere. What if something happened to him? She would die if anything had. This was so unlike Luis. If he was going to be late, he would have at least called and let her know so she wouldn't worry.

A knock on the door startled her. Was it Luis? Why would he knock? "One minute!" She yelled as she rushed to the door. Surprisingly, Sam and an officer she didn't recognize were standing outside the door. "Sam... what are you doing here?" She suddenly panicked. "Did something happen to Luis? Is he all right?" Her worried eyes searched Sam's guilt-stricken ones. He cleared his throat and spoke in the gentlest voice as he could. "Yeah, Sheridan.

Luis is fine..." He paused for a moment and then continued with the job ahead of him. Pulling out the cuffs, he tried to act professional, but it was killing him. She didn't deserve this and neither did Luis. They deserved to be happy. "Sheridan, you're under arrest for the murder of Martin Fitzgerald. You have the right to an attorney and anything you say can be used against you in the court of law. "

To Be Continued...

Chapter 3:

Sheridan stood there in complete shock as Sam cuffed her hands together behind her back. Murder? Martin Fitzgerald? No... this couldn't be happening. Eve said she hadn't murder anyone! "I'm sorry, Sheridan..." Sam said quietly, as he started leading her out to the police cruiser. Nothing would come out of her mouth. She stared at him in disbelief as he released her into the car. When would she awake from this nightmare? "Luis..." she uttered softly, as a tear fell down her cheek. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Luis was on his second beer as he felt a hand touch his shoulder. "Mind if I join you?" The familiar voice questioned from behind. "What'll it be, Beth?" Frankie asked from behind the counter. "Give me a draft..." She took the seat next to Luis, and stared at him for a moment before speaking. "Are you going to acknowledge my existence sometime today, or do I have to sit here and speak to myself all night?" "Hello." He spoke up in a frustrated tone, as he chugged down some beer. Beth looked annoyed. "Well, you don't have to get your panties in a twist. You just look like you needed someone to talk to, but you obviously would rather be alone with your beer." She took her beer from Frankie, and started to get up. "Beth -- wait." He turned pulling her back down. "I'm sorry... it's just -- I've had a rough night." Beth sighed as she sat back down. "Haven't we all?" "She killed him, Beth... she killed him..." His stare was distant and Beth's concern grew by the minute. "Whoa... slow down, there... who? Who killed who?" "Sheridan." He fought back tears as he slammed his fist on the counter. "Damn! Just when things were perfect... this. Why? Why this?" Beth tried processing what he was saying. "Luis, you're not making any sense. Who did Sheridan kill?" "My father." "What? Luis... Sheridan was just a little girl when your father disappeared. That's ridiculous..." "Is it?" He quickly pulled out the recorder and let her listen. She just stared at him, with the same reaction Sam had when listening to it. Beth tried to find the right words to say to her friend who was obviously in more pain than she could imagine. Trying to find her voice, she looked at him questioningly. "Are you sure? You know as well as I that you can't trust everything you hear or see these days..." "A tape of her confession under hypnosis doesn't lie, Beth." "Unless it was tampered with..." She drifted off thoughtfully. She processed what Luis had told her of Sheridan's nightmares before and nothing was adding up. "Come on, Luis... I mean, how could a little girl kill a grown man with a letter opener? Tell me, does that make sense to you? Something is missing... its not right." Luis tried to shake the thought from his mind. As much as he wished it to be true, he couldn't rely on false hope. "I've accepted it as the truth, and you should too." "No, Luis, I don't believe you have." The pain he was experiencing was transparent, especially to his best friend. "Where is she?" He was hesitant to answer. "In jail." Beth's eyes grew wide. He sent her to jail? On that alone? What was he thinking? It was obvious he wasn't... she paused. "You arrested her?" His hand went to cover his anguished eyes. "I couldn't. Sam did." "You didn't even have the decency to see her beforehand?" She was rather disgusted at the prospect that he sent her off to jail without fair warning. He just shook his head 'No'. "You have to go to her." She removed the beer from his hand and was on her feet trying to pry him from his chair. "I can't." "Look, Luis. Do you truly love her or not?" "It doesn't matter anymore." "It does, Luis." She picked up the small recorder. "This thing right here... this can be deceiving; but, this..." She gently touched his chest and frowned. "Your heart will never lie to you." She gave him a look, knowing he knew she was right. With that, she placed the recorder back on the counter and got up, leaving him alone with his thoughts. To Be Continued... Chapter 4:

"Miss Crane, You have a visitor." Sheridan heard one of the deputies say. She turned around to see Beth's sympathetic face staring back at her. Sheridan felt utter humiliation as Beth walked into the cell. She attempted to wipe some tears away before speaking. "Beth..." She was the last person whom Sheridan expected to be there. In fact, she was quite surprised Beth wasn't using this opportunity to make her move for Luis. It was, after all, the best time to get on his good side.

Maybe she had misjudged her, because the concerned look on Beth's face erased any suspicions Sheridan had of Beth envying or hating her. Envying? Who could envy her now... she must have been a pathetic sight because Beth quickly pulled out a tissue and handed it to her. "Here." She said softly as she sat down on the cot beside her. "How are you holding up?" Beth knew very well, but it seemed like the only thing to say.

Sheridan just shrugged. She wasn't about to lie, yet she didn't feel like being pitied at the moment either. "What are you doing here?" She didn't want to sound rude, but the curiosity was eating away. "I thought you could use a friend right now. You know, in case you feel like talking." Beth offered her a warm smile. "Or just need a hug. Whatever." A small smile escaped Sheridan's lips at Beth's sincerity. "Thanks." A frown then replaced it. "Although, I'm surprised you don't hate me, too."

"That's ridiculous, Sheridan. Luis doesn't hate you either." Sheridan looked up at her teary, doing all she could from breaking down. "How could he not hate me? I killed his father... I hate me." "First, I don't believe you killed anyone. Second, even if you had, you were only a little girl. We'll find out what really happened, I promise. Luis will eventually come to realize that love overpowers reason. You'll see."

Standing up, Sheridan walked towards the other side of the cell with her arms folded. "If only things were that simple. There's so much more involved... so much." She looked at Beth with tears brimming in her eyes, ready to flow at any given moment. "I'm pregnant, Beth." Beth was taken by surprise, but continued to let Sheridan speak. "My father called me a little while ago. He was trying to persuade me to have an abortion... I told him it was out of the question."

The words were to hard for her to get out. "But... the more I thought about it, this has to be the worst way to bring a child into the world..." Beth's eyes shot opened. "You can't do that, Sheridan... I know this is hard for you, believe me, I can't even begin to imagine how hard. But, you can't do that." She looked up at her questioningly. "Does Luis know?"

Sheridan shook her head. "Please, don't tell him... I'm not ready for him to know." "I won't. But, I think you need to... soon. He deserves to know, Sheridan." "He can't even stand the sight of me, how am I supposed to tell him I'm carrying his child?" Tears suddenly started to puddle at the top of her cheeks. Beth didn't know what to say, all she could do was stand up and give her a comforting hug. This situation was anything but easy on both of them, and Beth felt caught in the middle.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Julian was crouched down in front of the fire place slowly stuffing pieces of paper into the fire. "Goodbye, my little... little..." He was stumped. Little what? Little something... what was happening to his witty charm? Maybe it was his lack of role playing with his little Suzie Q... sure, his rendezvous' with Rebecca were quite enjoyable, but Suzanne was the perfect medicine. Maybe he should give her a call late-- the slamming of the bedroom door broke his train of concentration.

"Busy, darling?" Ivy forced a smile over her disgust for the despicable creature she called her husband. It was almost as if she could read his mind. "Why hello, my little ray of sunshine. What brings you to my chambers this evening? In search of a little 'Julian Love' perhaps?" He taunted her as he breathed heavily against the back of her neck.

Making a disgusted face she pulled away. "Don't touch me! God only knows where those hands have been. You really are unbelievable, Julian. While you're practicing your sweet talk to the fire, your sister is sitting in jail. I'm not one bit surprised, considering you were the first to celebrate her untimely supposed death."

"Ouch, dear!" He grabbed his chest, playing up his pain. "And that is not true! I care about my sister deeply... I only want what's best for her." He said, feigning a concerned look. "Which is why I have to do this." Taking the remaining papers, he flung them into the fire. "Voila!" He grinned at her with a cocky smile, as Pilar knocked on the door and peeked her head inside. "Mr. Crane -- Mrs. Crane... Chief Bennett is downstairs... with a search warrant."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 5:

Luis sat at his desk, tapping his pen endlessly. How could he close his latest case when the woman he loved was stuck in a jail cell in the next room? He had glanced in on her several times that morning, watching her silently as she slept. Her sleep wasn't by any means a peaceful one as she tossed and turned in her cot. It was horrific sight for Luis.

He knew how claustrophobic she was, and being confined in that small space with her haunting nightmares made his heart break. She shouldn't be waking up to this... she should be waking up to his embrace -- in his arms where she belonged. He tried shaking the thought away. 'She killed Papa. We can't have a future together... we can't.' He looked sadly off towards the door, trying to convince himself that getting over her was the best thing to do.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ "But Father..." Julian intervened. "Isn't that a bit harsh?" The brandy spilled into his glass from the bottle. "I will NOT tolerate any grandchild of mine having Lopez-Fitzgerald blood!" He uttered the name as if it were a deadly disease. "Believe me, I am just as repulsed that my dear sister is carrying Officer Lowlife's spawn, but with all do respect Father -- Sheridan IS your daughter..."

"And as my daughter its her duty to respect and honor our family's name. We are already receiving enough bad publicity from her being thrown into the local jail. If the press were to get word that she is pregnant with a local's child, the son of the man she supposedly killed no less, it would make a farce of the Crane name. I will not stand by and watch our family's reputation be dragged through the mud because my daughter can't control her damn hormones!" His voice was harsh and intimidating, making Julian shy back from the speakerphone.

He stood in the middle of his living room thoughtfully. "Well, perhaps no one has to know who fathered her child...?" "Spare me, Julian. As if no one would know. I've wasted enough time on this foolish topic. Either she sees things my way or she's out." With the click of a button, a dial tone was sounding on Julian's end.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ "Luis." Sam's voice broke through his thoughts. "We searched the whole mansion last night. Not a single trace of evidence supporting that Sheridan killed your father, or for that matter, that a murder even took place on the estate." Sam's frown soon became identical to Luis'. "I'm sorry, man."

Burying his face in his hands, he let out a gruff moan. "So... what now?" Who was he kidding? He knew full well what would happen now. Nothing had been resolved and now he would have to face her. It was confirmed as his gaze met Sheridan's. She stood there in the doorway, still wearing the white gown from the previous night. Looking as gorgeous as she did the night before in her silky, angelic gown (despite her tearstained face), Luis wanted to sweep her up in his arms and pretend nothing had changed.

But it had, and Luis knew it. There was still a good possibility she murdered Martin, and he had promised himself a while ago that if she had had anything to do with his father's disappearance, that would be the end. Yet, it was harder than it appeared... she had his most prized possession -- his heart. It was a battle between his head and his heart that would last a while, if not an eternity.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 6:

The stare made her whole body stiffen. She always knew what was going through his mind, yet, at that moment she had no idea what he was thinking. She knew he'd never forgive her... how could he? Sorrow drifted through her veins: sorrow for the man she loved and his family who had been nothing but good to her; sorrow for the life of living in guilt that awaited her; sorrow for their innocent, unborn child who deserved more than a murderess for a mother. Ethan stood on the other side of the room, his face holding nothing but contempt for his future brother-in-law. "Sheridan, your ride is here." Sam announced, unenthused about the Crane standing at the front of the station.

Sheridan's eyes roamed over at Ethan who was holding her jacket. Taking one more glance at Luis, her eyes locked with his. Their silence spoke more than words. Neither were ready to say anything to each other. Both were far too confused at the moment. Although it was hard, she tore her eyes from Luis' and walked over to her nephew. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ "Ha! Four! That's six hundred dollars, buddy... pay up." Beth grinned victoriously as she stared at her two houses placed on 'Boardwalk'.

Hank's hand slyly switched their game pieces as Beth cockishly counted her fake money. "What game are you looking at? Last time I checked I was the dog and you were the car." Beth quickly glanced down at the board in search of the game pieces and her eyes popped open. "Well, you certainly are a dog! You CHEAT, Bennett!" She squeaked as she quickly switched the pieces back to their proper place. Hank grinned at her devilishly. "What's wrong, sweetie... can't stand to lose?"

"Not when I'm being conned by the best of them! Besides, I won fair and square." She replied as she leaned over the game board and grabbed his last six hundred. She playfully stuck her tongue out at him as he grabbed her hands before she could sit back down on the ground. "Not so fast, honey. Why don't you let me choose the game for a change and then we'll see who wins." "Hey, you don't intimidate me." She grinned at him adoringly. "I'm up for the challenge. You name it, I'll be there. Just be prepared to get your butt whipped..."

"Promise?" He gave her his best puppy dog eyes. Rolling her eyes and laughing, she tried pulling her arms away from him. "Not so fast... I was thinking we could have a quick round of one on one hockey." Beth looked confused. "Now?" She glanced down at her watch. "But my shift starts in a half an hour... by the time we get all the equipment out, and --"

He placed a finger on her lips. "I was thinking we could just use our tongues..." She giggled as he lifted her up in his arms and laid her on his bed. He covered her body with his, devouring her mouth with a passionate kiss. The past two months they had been dating had been pure bliss for Beth and Hank. "Mmmm..." Beth tugged on his shirt as he started to pull away. "Where do you think you're going?" "You have to get to work..." "You tease!" She hit him playfully. "How many times do I have to remind you that you're my boyfriend and not my mother? One is enough..."

"Hey, I said 'quick'! Besides, how many times do I have to remind you that you're going to be late for work?" "Fine, fine, fine..." She sighed in defeat as she got off the bed. "You coming?" "Let's see, spend some quality time with the woman I love while she works on a Saturday night or sit home alone watching reruns of Mr. Ed? Um, girlfriend or talking horse?" He paused thoughtfully. "I think I'll opt for number two..." Beth chuckled lightly as she grabbed their coats and tugged him out of the B&B.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The minute Sheridan walked in the front foyer of the main house, Julian jumped back about five feet, praying she hadn't heard his and Alistair's conversation. "Sheridan... ah, sister dear..." He stuttered, hinting to Alistair of her presence. Sheridan took off her coat as she glared at her louse of a brother. She knew all too well that he and her Father had been discussing her. Julian was as transparent as they come. "Hello, Julian." She muttered with everyone ounce of disdain she held for him.

"Father and I... we were just discussing your well-being." Sheridan rolled her eyes at his choice of words. 'Well-being'? The irony. "That's right, dear." Alistair's voice came over the speakerphone. "Did you think about what I said last night?" He asked in a laughably sincere voice. "No." She stated simply. "There was no reason to. I told you my decision last night and the answer remains the same. I'm having this baby." She was in no mood to face her father and brother right now. All she wanted to do was fall into her bed and forget her surroundings.

Alistair became furious. "Well, you better think again Sheridan. If you have that baby you are no longer part of this family." Julian gave Sheridan a look, urging her to obey their father. Julian knew to take his threats very seriously. Sheridan didn't care. She wasn't about to let her father manipulate her over this -- this was her child's fate they were deciding on. Calling his bluff, she retorted. "If I have to choose between you and my baby, you should know it's going to be my child."

Julian's face went blank, dreading what was about to come next. "Fine, just remember, you dug your own grave Sheridan." His voice was more furious and bitter than she had ever heard in her life. "Don't come running back here once your credit card runs out. You'll just have to make do on the one hundred dollars you'll recieve every other week as child support from Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald." Her heart sank as he mentioned Luis' name. "I expect you to be off my property by tomorrow morning. If you aren't out by ten, Crane security will gladly help in showing you the door."

To Be Continued…

Chapter 7:

Sheridan had never felt so alone in her life, as she dried her eyes with a tissue, walking into the Book Cafe. Granted, her family was no good; but, they were still her family. How could they try to manipulate her into killing her baby? Her baby... the only part she had left of Luis. Had this been a month earlier, it wouldn't have been so hard being cut off from her family. Luis would have been there for her... for their baby. Their baby.

She knew she had to tell him, but she couldn't bring herself to. She didn't want him back out of pity for the situation she'd been put in. If he wanted to forgive her and start over, she wanted it to be purely because of love... not because he felt tied down to a sense of duty. Or would it even phase him? Perhaps he'd just want visitation rights? No, Sheridan knew Luis. If he knew he was going to be a father, he'd want to be there every minute for his child -- a few hours a week wouldn't cut it.

Walking up to the counter, Sheridan was fighting back the tears. Everything would be alright. She knew it had to be. She had to keep faith. Beth looked up in surprise at the woman standing before her. "Sheridan!" She smiled brightly, glad to see she was released from jail. Yet, the sadness filling her eyes didn't go unnoticed by Beth. "Sheridan, is everything okay? Do you need to talk... or...?" Beth looked on concerned as Sheridan nodded 'yes'. She dropped the rag she was using to wipe down the counter and walked around, directing Sheridan to a nearby table.

"So..." Beth sat down, giving her a comforting look. "Is it... Luis?" She was hesitant, not being sure if that was the best subject to bring up at the moment. "That... and..." Sheridan broke off, choking on her words. "And what?" "And... the fact I no longer have a family or place to live." Beth looked confused. "What happened?" "My father happened." Beth quickly handed Sheridan another tissue as the tears streamed down her cheeks. "He told me... he said that... that if I had the baby, then I was no longer a part of the family... and he wants me off Crane property by tomorrow morning." Her big blue eyes, glistening with tears, stared at Beth in confusion. "I... I don't know what to do."

"Oh, Sheridan... I'm so sorry." Beth felt horrible. Alistair had to be the coldest, most heartless man on earth. "You are welcome to stay at my place... for as long as you need." She smiled encouragingly at Sheridan. "I don't want to impose..." Sheridan replied. Right now, she felt like a big inconvenience to everyone she came across.

"You wouldn't be. I'll always be here for you, and I know Hank will be too. What are friends for?" She smiled warmly at her once again. "Everything will work out, Sheridan. Maybe this is for the best..." Even as she spoke the words, Beth knew that wouldn't be comforting to Sheridan at the moment. She was just trying to stay possitive. "Hey... did you know they have peanut butter twix now in the vending machine?!" Hank voiced enthusiastically as he walked up behind the two women.

"Hank..." Beth's voice clearly warning him not to speak any further. She prayed he wouldn't say something unknowingly to upset Sheridan more. "What?" He looked at her innocently. Beth sighed. "Hank, will you do me a favor and take Sheridan back to the cottage to help her pack? I have to finish up here." Hank's face was filled with confusion. "She's staying with me for a little while." Beth shot Hank a look, implying she'd fill him in later.

"That isn't necassary, Beth. I can pack myself..." "No, you don't need to be alone right now. Hank's happy to help, aren't you sweetie?" "Ah, sure..." Hank looked confused as hell. "Well... let's go then..." As he and Sheridan headed towards the door, he turned around and glanced at Beth with a confound look once more. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Luis sat at his kitchen table, trying to concentrate on the newspaper. It was usless -- his mind kept drifting to Sheridan. "Hello, mijo." Pilar entered with the laundry basket. "Mama, I told you I'd fold those... why don't you go relax."

"No, Luis. I'm fine, I think you need to relax more than I do right now." Luis frowned at her comment. His mother knew him so well. Trying to be as casual as he could, he spoke up. "So... did you... happen to see her today?" The questions were eating away at him. He started fiddling with the laundry, in attempts to help fold it. "No." Pilar frowned, as she stopped folding the laundry for a moment. "She's moving out, mijo." Luis felt his heart pounding as their conversation about her progressed. "Moving? Where?"

Pilar just shook her head. "I don't know... I don't know what happened really. All I know is I heard the staff talking about it -- Alistair kicked her out... he's cutting her off from the family." Luis' eyes widened. "What? Why? On what terms?" Pilar just shrugged. "That bastard!" Luis threw the towel he was folding onto the kitchen table. "I have to go see her..."

Pilar looked hopeful for a minute. "You know she's always welcomed here..." She tried hinting to him, in hopes he'd make up with her. It killed her to see her son in such pain, and Sheridan as well. "I know, Mama." Luis spoke softly. He wasn't so sure anymore that she'd want to be near him, after having her put in jail. "I just... I have to make sure she's alright." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Luis lightly knocked on the door of the cottage, preparing what he would say when she opened. No one answered. He tried peeking in through the window. It was dark. Maybe she was in the bedroom. "Sheridan?" He continued knocking, a little louder this time around. Still no answer. He tried twisting the knob as it opened. "Sheridan...?" He slowly walked inside, turning on a light. The room was empty. "Sheridan!" He quickly walked towards the bedroom. His heart stopped as he looked inside. The room was cleared out. She was already gone.

To Be Continued…

Chapter 8:

The morning sun shown through the bedroom window, as Sheridan started to open her eyes. She gazed around the room, while blinking her eyes, trying to adjust her eyes to the bright light. Yawning, she stretched ever so slightly. Pulling the big, warm down-comforter off, her hand ran over her stomach. As she felt the small bump, a smile took over her face, remembering the small baby that was growing within her. She was determined to give her child a better life than the one she had had. Her little girl or boy would know all the small pleasures in life as well as the big ones.

She would give her child everything she could, and then some. She paused as the thoughts drifted through her head. How could she give her child everything in life when she was denying her baby his or her father? She had to tell him -- in fact, she was going to today. They would work something out. They had to -- for their baby's sake.

Sheridan slipped out of the bed, feeling bad for having occupied Beth's last night. She was too tired and emotionally drained to argue with her though. Beth had been so kind letting her stay, but she didn't want to wear out her welcome. She'd start looking for a place today. She had plenty of money from her mother's inheritance to buy a nice, cozy little home -- the kind she had always dreamed of. There was also enough to live on until she could get a job, most likely after the baby was born.

Putting a matching robe on over her silky, cream pajamas, Sheridan headed to the kitchen. Standing over the stove was a middle-aged woman flipping pancakes. She looked remarkably like Beth, besides the few wrinkles underneath her eyes and the fact her once raven-black hair now bore gray streaks.

"Oh, good morning dear! Sit yourself down, breakfast is almost ready." Debra Ann Wallace exclaimed cheerfully. Sheridan could already tell she was a very chipper person. A smile formed on her lips as she tried not to laugh at the older woman's enthusiasm about pancakes. "Bethany apologizes for having to leave so early. She should be back around noon and suggested maybe the two of you could go shopping."

Debra flipped a pancake onto a dish, as she turned to look at Sheridan's confused face. "Oh, that's right. I always forget she goes by Beth to all her friends. The Good Lord only knows why when she has the beautiful name I gave her... it was a silly phase she went through in high school. Said she needed a 'change.' I don't see why she didn't just dye her hair red like all the other kids." Sheridan let out a small laugh. "It IS a beautiful name... very beautiful."

Sitting herself down at the table across from Sheridan, Debra smiled back at her. "So, dear... did you sleep well?" She nodded 'yes' as she started pouring syrup on her pancake. "I can't thank you or Beth enough for letting me stay here... I really appreciate it." "You're welcomed here for as long as you need. And in the future, if you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask. I know how it is being a single mother. I raised three by myself once my husband passed away -- God bless his soul." She smiled at Sheridan warmheartedly and Sheridan smiled back shyly. "Thank you."

"I don't want to be sticking my nose where it doesn't belong, but I've been around for a while and I've seen things similar happen before." Her voice was sincere as she continued. "I know you and Luis are having your differences now..." Differences was putting it very mildly, Sheridan thought to herself. "But, Luis is a good man -- I've known him most of his life -- and I know, without a doubt, that he would want to be there for his child. He'll be there for you, too... you just have to talk to him."

"Thank you for your concern... I've actually been thinking about that since I woke up." "And...?" "And I decided to tell him... I want what's best for my baby." "Good, you won't be sorry." Debra smiled contentedly. "Now, finish your breakfast before it gets cold!" She continued in a motherly tone. Sheridan smiled inwardly as she finished the breakfast in front of her. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Youth Center was empty, and he had planned to get some work done to take his mind off of the past two days. It apparently didn't work, when Luis found himself shutting the small black box for the millionth time. He couldn't stop looking at it... how could life be so cruel? Everything was going so well... he had his whole life planned out before him. He would propose to Sheridan in front of the fire... Closing his eyes, he could visualize her face again as he slipped the ring on. Then, the love making... he had planned on making the most passionate love to her that night, on a bed of roses.

Their life would have been wonderful together. Their wedding -- finally making her his wife. Their children -- they would have had such beautiful children. Luis could picture holding a little girl on his lap, with long, golden curls, bright blue eyes, and a face identical to her mothers. His heart ached thinking about it. Love was supposed to conquer all, and yet, it didn't seem as if it could this time. Putting the little box into his desk drawer, he took the key and locked it securely. He'd return it today, he thought, as the phone rang. "Hello?" He answered tiredly. "Mijo..." "Oh, hey Mama." "Hank just called."

"Oh?" He tried sounding interested, but he couldn't take his mind off Sheridan. "He wanted me to tell you that Sheridan is staying at the Wallace's." She paused. "Go to her, mijo." "But, Mama..." Luis protested. "Please, Mijo. For closure if nothing else." Luis knew she was right. It was killing him more to end things without even saying good-bye. He knew they could never be together... he couldn't be with the person who broke up his family all those years ago; but, the least he could do was say good-bye. "You're right..." "So, you will go?" "I'm leaving now." "Good. I love you." "I love you, too, Mama." Luis hung up the phone, and headed out the door, just to gaze into her eyes one last time. To Be Continued…

Chapter 9:

Pacing nervously on the front step, Luis stared at the door before him. What would he say when he saw her? Would he take her in his arms, holding her tightly, and beg her to forgive him for deserting her when she just needed someone to love her? No... Luis' stubbornness took over him once again. He wouldn't let his emotions blind him from reality. She killed his father... that was the reality. Besides, she didn't need him -- Beth was looking out for her -- she would be fine without him.

The door creaked open as the familiar face filled the entrance. "Luis!" Debra placed a maternal kiss on the cheek of the man who was like a son to her. "Come in, dear. Would you like some coffee? Just made a fresh pot..." She rambled on as she took his coat off of him, leading him into the kitchen. "Ah, sure..." He glanced around, searching for the reason he came. "Sit yourself down!" She ordered, pouring him a cup. "I heard Sheridan was here..."

"Well, you heard correctly!" She placed the coffee in front of him. "She's upstairs primping... you know how fussy these girls get about their make-up. Just like my Hannah and Bethany. Rachel never was into it the way they are. They can go on for hours trying to pick out just the right shade of shadow..." Luis let out a laugh. He loved how the woman could take the most random topic and go on forever with it.

Sheridan cleared her throat from the doorway. Luis looked up, and he wondered how she managed to take his breath away every time she entered a room. They stared at each other for a moment. "I'm sorry I came without notice... I just needed to..." "It's all right." She cut him off. "I needed to speak to you anyway." Debra took this as her cue. "I'll just... I'm going to... I'll just be in here." She hurried off into the next room. "So..." Luis stood up, staring at her like a lost little boy. "So..." Sheridan replied. Both looked towards the doorway stunned as they heard a book come crashing down on the floor and Debra mutter some words from the other side of the door. They both smiled at each other lightly. "I think we have an audience..." Sheridan whispered in Luis' ear. "Why don't we take a walk?"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ It was a clear, picturesque scene, with not a hint of a gray cloud in the sky. Just how the first day of May should look. The sun was shining brightly and the flowers in full bloom. The birds chirped away as they walked down the sidewalk together. "So..." Sheridan silently kicked a small pebble into the street beside them as her eyes avoided meeting his. Slowly, she came to a stop and stared at him, searching his eyes for signs of forgiveness, or at least something remotely suggesting they might have a chance together

. "I... I'm so sorry..." She offered, wondering how he'd react. He just stood there, eyeing her blankly. Averting her gaze sadly, she spoke softly. "You have every right to hate me." "I do." His voice was a matter of fact. She looked up at him silently, her heart breaking at his words. "I have every right to hate you... but I don't. I can't."

A hint of hope glistened in her eyes as she continued staring at him. "You... don't?" She asked uncertainly, wondering if she heard him correctly. He simply shook his head 'no'. His eyes met her bewildered ones. "Luis..." Her voice was faint. "Do you... I mean... do you... do you believe I did it...?" He stared at her seriously, not sure what to say. "I don't know, Sheridan... I just don't know. I know as much as you do." "Well... where does this leave us?" He stared at her, wanting to supply her with the words she wanted to hear, but he couldn't bring himself to do so.

"Luis..." Her voice was gentle, as she fought back tears. "Remember... do you remember.. the time you said... you said that you would always love me... no matter what. Do you remember?" He nodded. "Di...did you... I mean, did you mean it? Or was it... just something to say?" His big strong hands were enfolding hers as he gazed at her with his sincere eyes. "Every word... I meant every word. Which is why this is so hard..."

"But, it shouldn't have to be! If you truly love me..." Her eyes were pleading, as pulled her hands from his. She was gripping onto threads. At this point, she wasn't sure what she was saying, she just knew she couldn't lose him... she needed him. "There is a good possibility you murdered my father. Sheridan, I could forgive you with every ounce of my being, and I have, but it doesn't change the fact. I can't go on looking at you every day the rest of our lives, feeling this twinge of resentment for what you've taken from me. It's not fair to you or me. And what about the children we might of had? Would it be fair to them?" Sheridan felt a pang in the pit of her stomach as he mentioned their 'children'.

"I'm glad this came out before things went any further. Could you imagine? Putting a child in the middle of this... I'm just grateful it didn't go that far." Her heart caught in her throat. She placed a hand on her lower abdomen, which went unnoticed by him. Luis didn't want this baby -- he was right -- it wouldn't be fair to put an innocent child in the middle of this mess. "Why did you come?" Sheridan choked out the words, gazing off into the distance. "I needed to say 'good-bye'..." He reached out his hand and gently touched her arm, as she quickly pulled it back. "A phone would have worked just as well." A tear ran down her cheek as she turned away from him slightly.

"I needed to see you once more..." His hand reached out to wipe away the lone tear and he kissed her cheek softly. Sheridan was furious, along with heart broken. What kind of game was he playing? He didn't love her! She raised her hand as it met his cheek. "Just stay away from me." She turned quickly, so he wouldn't see the tears rush down her cheeks as she ran back to the house.

He stood in the middle of the sidewalk, running his fingertips along his cheek where a pain still lingered from her slap. Tears stung in his eyes as he watched the only woman he had ever, or would ever love, run off and out of his life for good.

To Be Continued…

Chapter 10:

The quaint, secluded house in the depths of Castleton was a mess. Sheridan couldn't help but observe as she wandered throughout the first floor, in search for the soft, comfy, creamy white chair awaiting her in the next room. Oh, well... it would just have to wait to be cleaned, because at that moment her knees were giving in. She couldn't stand up a moment longer.

Finding her way into the living room, Sheridan reached her destination. Sinking into the cushion, she reclined back, lifting her tired feet. The heat coming from the fireplace warmed her toes and she couldn't help but smile as she felt the small kicks coming from within her. Rubbing the top of her stomach with the tip of her thumbs in circular motions, she started humming softly to her unborn baby as she watched the sparks from the fire in front of her.

It had been almost four and half months now since she'd last seen Luis. She had convinced herself to no end that not telling him about the baby was the best choice -- despite Beth and Hank's pleas to do so. Ethan had supported her decision, but hadn't he always? Theresa even agree not to tell her brother, though she often seemed as though she was conspiring against Sheridan with Beth and Hank. Theresa looked at her secrecy as returning a favor. Sheridan had, after all, lied to Luis for the longest time for her. It was only fair she kept Sheridan's secret. Wasn't it?

Sheridan wasn't so sure she had made the right choice. She just wanted what was best for her little girl. Should she tell him? The question had been her worst enemy the past four months. She certainly didn't want him to fall at her feet out of guilt, sympathy, or a sense of duty. There wasn't much more time to decide, as she was already into her third trimester.

The sounding phone crashed through her thoughts like a tidal wave. Ruefully, she searched for the cordless phone that had hid itself somewhere between the cushion and the actual chair. It was Saturday evening. All she wanted to do was take a nice, long nap right where she was. She wasn't up for talking and pondered whether she should answer the phone in her hands, as it continued to ring endlessly.

"Hello..." Sheridan's voice was jaded as she finally answered. "Hi!" Beth's voice chimed in enthusiastically. "Beth..." A soft smile formed on her lips at the sound of the woman who had become a best friend to her. "How are you feeling?" "I'm good..." Sheridan lied. She felt horrible lying, but she didn't want anyone worrying about her. They all acted as if she were deathly ill, though she was simply pregnant. "Taking good care of my little namesake, I hope?" Sheridan let out a small laugh. "Of course..."

"Good. Well, since you've been complaining to us a lot lately about your 'independence' and your 'Just because I'm pregnant, doesn't mean I'm cripple' theory... I have a proposition to make." Her ears perked up. Surely she wasn't going to ask her to do something tonight? Not tonight... please not tonight! All she wanted was some sleep. Still, she didn't want to look hypocritical... "And that would be...?"

"A favor...?" Beth's voice was hopeful. After a moments hesitation, Sheridan put her hand to her forehead. "Of course..." "Only if you're up to it, though..." That made Sheridan even more determined to complete the task Beth was about to request. "Hank had planned a while ago to take me out tonight... but, that was before I knew Chad was going to be out of town. I just called Karen and she's coming down with the flu... I was wondering, could you possibly cover the shift for a few hours?

It would only be three at the most... I mean, not the busiest hours of the day, so it wouldn't be too strenuous..." Beth paused. "I think tonight might be the night..." She giggled gleefully. It warmed Sheridan's heart to hear Beth so happy. How could she say 'no'? After everything Beth had done for her. "What time should I be there?"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Beth closed her cell phone with a swift click, as Hank wrapped his arms around her waist from behind. "One down, one more to go!" She beamed as he tenderly kissed her temple. "Don't you feel the least bit sorry for lying to her...?" "Of course... but it had to be done." She turned around and shoved the cell phone in his hands. "Your turn!" She grinned playfully, as if this were some game. It was in fact a game -- they were playing matchmaker. Hank groaned. "Do I HAVE to?" "Yes...!" "But I don't know how comfortable I feel lying to my best friend this way..." "Oh, spare me Bennett! As if it were the first time..."

"Still..." "Listen, do you want our best friends at least on speaking terms for our wedding or not?" Hank grinned as he took her hand and glided his thumb over the large diamond rock on his bride-to-be's ring finger, that he slipped on there not even twenty-four hours ago. "Of course I do..." "Then you have to do this. Besides, Luis deserves to know about that baby... Sheridan is too stubborn to admit she was wrong." "I know, I know!" He threw his hands up in the air in confusion. "But, aren't we betraying Sheridan's wishes by doing this?" "No... we're simply pushing them together. It's for their own good. They'll be grateful in the long run, even if we have to tell a few white lies along the way..."

Hank groaned in protest. "Hank..." She gave him a warning look and handed him the phone once more. "All right, I'm doing it." Hank sulked off to the other side of the bedroom, with the expression of a little boy who had just been reprimanded by his mother. Carefully, he dialed his best friend's phone number. "Hello?" "Luis..."

To Be Continued…

Chapter 11:

The small cafe was practically deserted, with the exception of a couple sitting in the far left corner and an elderly man, sipping coffee up at the counter. Luis rubbed his hands together as he entered. For early September, it was unusually chilly. New England weather could be so unpredictable... he wouldn't be surprised if they had the warmest winter yet, that's how strange the seasons had been the past year.

Meandering up to the counter, he decided on ordering a coffee to warm himself up. He had a good ten minutes until Hank was supposed to meet him there. Standing in front of the registered, he didn't see an employee in sight. Beth usually had this shift... where was she? The ruffling noises from behind the counter ignited his curiosity.

Sheridan was searching through the refills of coffee beans when she heard someone clear their throat above her. "One minute!" She offered, trying to sound as pleasant as possible, despite how desperately tired she was. Finding the French Vanilla, she glanced down at her watch. Only ten minutes left before she could leave this dreaded place and get home to her warm bed. Pulling herself back to her feet, she placed the small bag on the counter behind her.

"What can I get for..." As she turned around, the familiar face that she had been avoiding the past four months greeted her. "Luis..." Sheridan sputtered his name before the reality could even hit her. His eyes broadened as he recognized her face. "Sheridan?" He glanced around for a sign of Beth, and returned his gaze to her in confusion. "What...what are you doing here...?" Luis felt his heart twisting as he examined the delicate features of the woman standing behind the counter... that intrusive feeling that he shut out of his heart many months ago.

What was she doing here...? What was HE doing here?! All her months of trying to keep her distance, just came crashing down in one moment. She wasn't prepared to face him tonight... if she had to confront him, she had to be ready -- and she wasn't! Staring at him blankly, she found her voice.

"I.. I'm filling in... as a favor." Sheridan quickly grabbed the cloth beside her and started wiping the counter, in attempts to keep her eyes from meeting his. Trying her best to act nonchalant, she continued. "What are you doing here? I mean... at this time of night?" Luis was undeniably on the same page, for he was fighting his emotions to appear aloof. "Hank. I'm waiting for Hank... we're going to go shoot some pool..." Hank? Sheridan stopped the circular motions on the counter top and looked up at Luis. "Hank?" "Yeah..." "You can't! I mean... are you sure?"

Luis nodded 'yes', staring at Sheridan with mocking skepticism. "I can't? He is my best friend, in case you've forgotten..." "But he's out with Beth... that's why I'm filling in. Are you positive you didn't confuse the nights...?" He looked at her confidently. "Hank called three hours ago. I'm POSITIVE he said tonight." Both paused for a moment, thoughtfully. Then, as if in sync, both sets of eyes met, exchanging glances that silently told each other they knew what the other was thinking.

"Damn them!" Sheridan huffed under her breath. A distressed look consumed Luis' face, which didn't go unnoticed by her. The hurtful look filling his gorgeous, hazel eyes tugged at her heart. "I guess I'll just... go." He averted his eyes downward as he started to put on his coat. "Luis, wait... I'm sorry. I didn't mean it that way, really..." "Sheridan, there's no need for excuses, I understand." "No, it was nice seeing you again... really." She offered a compassionate smile. "How about a coffee?"

As much as he wanted to stay there, with her, he didn't know if it was a good idea. He paused. "I'm sure you want to get home." If only he knew how true it was. "I have to clean up anyway..." She confessed, while pouring him a cup. He loved how she knew exactly how he took it. She knew him like a book... how he loved the woman. "Thanks..." He politely took the cup, deciding not to argue.

Sheridan continued spraying and wiping the counter until it sparkled. Luis couldn't take her eyes off her, as he stood there, sipping his coffee. She was so beautiful, so delicate. He had attempted so many times over the past months to go to her, to find her.

After everything settled in, Beth's theory of a little girl killing a grown man made more and more sense. He wanted so badly to take her into his arms, and beg her for forgiveness for ever believing such nonsense. He knew how hurt she must have been. Who wouldn't be? He just couldn't bring himself to do it -- his pride kept standing in the way. Yet, there he was, in a trance, lost in her beautiful features.

The crash of the mug hitting the floor sounded throughout the small room, nearly giving Luis a heart attack. The burning of coffee settled on his hand brought him back to reality. He let out a slight groan, as tiny pains shot through his hand. "Oh my, God! Are you all right?" Sheridan grabbed a clean cloth, rinsing it under cold water as fast as she could. Slightly waddling, she made her way from behind the counter and over to Luis, quickly pressing the wet cloth against his burning hand.

"Thank you..." His voice subdued, as he stood paralyzed. Was he that mesmerized that he couldn't even hold up a coffee cup? She pulled the cloth off his hand, examining it to make sure the burn wasn't a bad one. It was hard for her to see, for the only light on was the lamp in the far corner and an even duller one near the cash register. It was apparent the place was now closed, and the soft moonlight from the window shown in, making Sheridan's face glow.

He gazed down at her, and without warning, his lips grazed hers. The kiss started as a tender one, as Sheridan felt Luis' hand grip behind her back, pulling her closer to him. It slowly started to intensify with each passing second. Suddenly, an immediate barrier came between them, as he felt her stomach ram into his. Breaking away, he studied her figure in the dim light as she watched on, still in a daze from their passionate kiss. The light was just enough for him to make out her round, protruding stomach. A soft gasp escaped his lips as his hand reached out, placing the tips of his fingers on her abdomen. "My God..." He stood there, stunned, as his fingers continued to lightly trace her stomach.

To Be Continued…

Chapter 12:

"You're... you're... Oh my God!" Furrowing his brow, he tore his right hand off her stomach and brought it up to cover his eyes. "Oh my God..." Sheridan stared up at him, anticipating what she knew he would say. She didn't want to hear it. She didn't want to hear him say what a mistake this was and how he didn't want the baby. It was known, she didn't have to hear it to believe it. All she wanted to do was cry as she stared into his dark features.

He tried to grasp onto reality, but it all seemed to be too confusing at the moment. After inhaling sharply, he cleared his throat a bit, trying to remain self-composed. Looking back at her, his eyes were once again drawn to her bulging abdomen. He then brought them back up to meet hers, questioningly. "Well...? Are you going to start...? Or should I?" His voice was seemingly calm... almost too calm. Sheridan swallowed back tears silently as she stared on. "What do you want me to say?" "Do you... do you know if its a boy or --" "It's a girl." A girl! His heart fluttered for a moment and a smile snuck out of his lips. His little girl...

He paused, and looked at her curiously. "How far along are you...?" "Seven months, next week..." She sought her fingernails as a distraction as Luis continued to interrogate her. Luis swallowed, trying not to let the anger that was slowly creeping into his veins get the best of him. "Seven months?" He reiterated. "And... when exactly were you planning on telling me? At her wedding? No, wait. That Crane trick has already been used... I'm sure you were going for something more creative...? Maybe when we had our first grandchild?"

Sheridan felt her blood boil. How dare he berate her that way! To compare their situation to Ivy and Sam's was unimaginable. She was protecting her baby from a lifetime of therapy! Ivy was shallowly protecting Ethan from the world of the middle-class. "You're awfully confident that I was going to tell you..." "You wouldn't..." Luis was appalled at the thought of her keeping his child from him. "Wouldn't I?" She felt tears stinging in her eyes. "Funny, because that's exactly what I was going to do." "Damnit, Sheridan! You can't deny our baby her father!"

"I can't?" The challenging tone in his voice angered her all the more. Placing a protective hand on her stomach, she met his tone with an identical stare. "Just watch me." He watched as she moved behind the counter, shutting the light off beside the cash register, then flicking a switch, leaving them in complete darkness. Darkness was good -- it prevented him from witnessing the tears flowing down her pink cheeks.

God help her, he wanted the baby after all. He was right... she had no place keeping his daughter from him. She was biting her nose to spit her face, and she was well aware. If only she could bring herself to tell him so. If only it was she who he wanted, and not just their baby. "Sheridan, wait! You can't leave!" Luis quickly followed her path out the Book Cafe and stood beside her adamantly as she locked the place up. The tears glistened on her cheeks in the moonlight, and Luis gently placed his hand on her forearm, forcing her to face him.

"Don't I at least deserve some answers?" His voice was soft once again, being full aware of her fallen tears. She moved her gaze to the pavement below in embarrassment. "Just..." Not looking at him, she tugged her arm away. She made her way to her car as fast as it was possible in her condition. Dashing into the driver's seat, she clung to her keys, which were in the ignition faster than a lighten bolt. Once... twice... three times she tried to start up the engine. No! Was this God's way of punishing her? Her fists came crashing down on the steering wheel as she threw her head back in the seat with tears puddling at the top of her cheeks.

"See, even your car agrees with me." His voice filled the interior of the car, as he opened up the door. Bending down to be eye level with her, his hand brushed away the puddles, then soothingly caressed her cheek. It bothered him to see her this upset. "All this stress can't be good for the baby. Come on, I'll take you home. We can talk later, right now, you need rest..." Sheridan was too tired to argue. He carefully helped her out of her car and into his truck.

The short drive to Castleton was a quiet one. Neither spoke the whole way, other than to give or question directions. As they approached the house, Luis admired the creamy colored home at the end of the long driveway. The outside had Sheridan written all over it, and he was sure the inside would give him the same impression. It was the type of home she had always dreamed of -- a cozy home. A home to raise a family in... their family. Their family... he was going to be a father! The idea finally settled in Luis' mind.

Luis loved Sheridan more than anything in the world and the idea that she was carrying his child just made his heart fill with pride. He silently prayed that this baby could bring them closer together. If he could only go back in time, he would have erased that tape from existence and from his mind the moment he got it! If only it were that easy... so much had happened. Could they ever repair the love they once shared? His love for her still remained as strong as it once was, but had hers? He could only hope.

"Luis...?" "Hmmm?" "Thank you." He flashed her that million dollar smile that made her knees melt every time she saw it. "You're welcome." Returning a smile halfheartedly, she started to make her way out of the truck. "Wait..." He touched her hand slightly. "You live here... alone?" "No... cats are great company you know." She smiled at him again, only this time a bit more shyly. "Ha. Ha." His voice lacked amusement. "Seriously, are you okay being all alone here...? It's a pretty secluded area..." "Luis, I'm not an invalid!" "No, but you're hardheaded, stubborn, and carrying my child. Those qualities don't mix well as far as I'm concerned... I'd feel better if I made sure you were settled in before I left." "Luis, that really isn't neces--" "Sheridan, don't argue with me."

"Nice place you've got here..." Luis glanced around the large kitchen, examining it inch by inch. "I thought so... wouldn't have bought it otherwise." Sheridan grinned at him teasingly, as she brought a cup of newly brewed coffee over to Luis, who was sitting on a stool at the island in the middle of the room. "Now, I'm trusting you won't break this cup... it's an antique. It was my mother's." A sad look crept into her eyes at the mention of the woman who she missed dearly ever since her childhood. "I'll guard it with my life." He smirked at her, hoping to strip her of her sad gaze. A small smile formed at the end of her lips. "I'm sure you will." "Hey, why don't you just sit down?" He watched as she finished emptying the dishwasher. Standing on her tiptoes, she attempted to put a glass away in the top cabinet, when lightheadedness took over her body.

Luis noticed immediately, as he dashed up behind her, holding her up before she collapsed. "Sheridan, you need to relax. You're over working yourself. Please, just sit down." Regaining her balance, she stared at him perplexed. "Why do you care?" Her question cut right to the core. He had every reason in the world to care -- couldn't she see that? "Isn't it obvious?" The look on her face told him it wasn't. He moved his hand to her chin, forcing her eyes to meet his tender ones.

"I love you, Sheridan... I meant it when I told you that I always would." Those words... those words she longed to hear for months. Vulnerability filled her, and it poured out of the expression on her face. His hand moved from her chin, and both hands gently caressed her stomach. Tears burned in his eyes once again. "I love you, Sheridan, and our little girl. I need you... both of you. I want us to be a family." His dark eyes pleaded with her bright ones, begging for forgiveness and hoping for a second chance.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 13:

Of course there was a catch...! He didn't need her, he needed the baby growing within her. Taking his hands off her stomach, she walked over to the refrigerator to pour herself some water. "No, Luis... this isn't a packaged deal." Luis looked on puzzled. "Packaged deal...?" Placing the water down beside her, Sheridan stared down at her hands. She couldn't look up at him... she just couldn't. Here was her golden opportunity to get him back, but it wasn't right. It was obvious he was deathly afraid she would keep the baby from him and this was his last hope.

"Sheridan..." His voice was lulling as he placed his hand on the small of her back. "Don't you want us to be a family...?" She would have to be insane to say she didn't. Obviously she did. "You're doing this for the wrong reasons, Luis..." Drifting towards the living room, she sipped her water to ease her dry throat. Hurrying after her, he stared on in disbelief. "The wrong reasons? Since when is wanting to be there for the person you love a wrong reason?" "You will be, don't worry. We'll work something out... I promise." He looked at her uneasily. What did she mean? "Work something out?" She nodded. "Visitations..."

Luis felt a feverish feeling rise within him. "Visitations? No, Sheridan. No." He shook his head in protest. "I won't be one of those fathers who sees his kid once every three weeks!" He wouldn't try to take her baby from her? Would he...? A glare came to her face. "You're lucky you're going to see her at all!" His face went blank. "Would you really keep her from me?" Hurt manifesting through his voice. "Don't... don't you think I would be a good father...?" Her opinion mattered to him greatly; still, he didn't want her to know just how much as he tried to harden his face.

The hurt sounding in his voice made Sheridan weaken. Luis was always her weakness... if he hurt, so did she. "No, Luis..." She touched his arm gently. "I think you will be the most wonderful father any baby could ever have." "Then why are you trying to keep my daughter from me?" "Luis, I'm not a monster... I wouldn't keep your child from you. You can see her as often as you want..." "What if I want to see her everyday...?" He moved his hand to her cheek. "What if I want to see her mother everyday...?" His eyes pleaded with hers again. All he wanted was for things to go back to how they were four months ago. He couldn't stand being miserable anymore. He needed her.

"I love you, Sheridan." She tore his hand off her cheek. "No, you don't! Stop saying you do! Stop lying to yourself, Luis!" "But, I do..." His voice was extremely soft, hoping she would believe he was being honest. "You don't. You love this baby... and I want you to. But you don't love me, you can't." "Who are you to tell me who I can and can't love...?" "You've done just fine the past four months without me." "You can't say that... you don't know. I've been miserable, Sheridan..." Tears stung in her eyes. Why did he have to make this harder than it already was? "Look, I can't let you do something you'll regret later. Right now, you're just overwhelmed with the news about the baby."

"Please, Sheridan... I'm not confused. I'm thinking clearly. I need you--" "Luis, just stop!" "But, I..." "Stop!" The tears streamed down her cheeks now, and Luis felt his whole world slipping out from beneath him -- Sheridan and the baby were his whole life. He didn't want to upset her any further for the baby's sake. Maybe with time she would come to her senses. "Okay." He said after moments hesitation. "Thank you..." She replied wistfully, as she lost herself in his eyes. "I hate seeing you cry." Brushing his fingers across her cheek, he smiled at her lightly. "I hope we can at least be on speaking terms..." He paused. "For the baby of course."

She returned his smile, giving in. "Of course." "Friends?" He extended his hand to hers as she took it. "Friends." "Good." He grinned at her lovingly. "Now, as your friend, I have a small concern... actually, a big concern." Her curiosity mounted as she looked on. "And what would that concern be?" "Your staying here alone... in this house."

"Oh, Luis... I'm too tired to get into this. Not tonight." She gave him a deathly exhausted glance, begging him not to pry. "Good, then there shouldn't be too much of an argument. Either you're coming to stay at my house, or your couch is my new bed." "Luis, please... I'm fine." "I'm sticking around to make sure my child is brought into this world safely. So, it's up to you. One or the other." Letting out a frustrated moan, she gave up. "There's a guest room upstairs." He flashed her a victorious grin. "Great. After I make sure you're resting, I'll run home and get my things."

Sheridan stepped out of the shower into the middle of the cold bathroom. The soft towel met her flesh, drying off the small beads of water from the shower she had just taken. Just as fast as the towel left her, a white, cottony robe took its place, instantly warming her. Humming lightly, she wandered back into her bedroom. As much as she'd hate to say it, it was comforting knowing that Luis would be around now. She never admitted it to anyone, but she worried more as each day passed and it came closer and closer to her due date.

She had two more months to go, but still... if anything were to happen, no one would have known. It wasn't as if she was friendly with her neighbors. Everyone seemed to keep to themselves in Castleton -- very unlike its sistering town, Harmony. As she approached the bed, she noticed that the covers were folded back, awaiting her to get under them. It was obviously Luis' doing. Soft, relaxing music was playing lightly in the background, and she smiled as she sat down beside her silky nighty that was laid on top of the covers. Starting to change into them, she felt a presences standing in the doorway.

She looked up to see Luis standing there, blushing a crimson color which matched the color of the rose on the tray he was carrying. Quickly, she finished putting on her nightgown and looked back up at him. It was those awkward moments all over again from their days of body guarding and fighting off drug lords. She smiled sweetly as he walked over to her nervously. "I thought you might like some tea..." He placed the tray down on the night stand beside the bed. "That was very thoughtful of you..." She couldn't stop the smiles that kept appearing at the end of her lips. Taking the cup, she slid her back up against the fluffy pillows as she supped the hot liquid.

Pushing the comforter aside, he sat down beside her. "You look exhausted..." "Gee... thanks." Grinning, she placed the tea cup back on the tray. Grazing his eyes over her body, he admired her beauty. She glowed from her pregnancy and he wanted to capture the sight in his mind and keep it there forever. Despite her large stomach, every other aspect of her body was still perfect. She obviously kept herself in good shape. Maybe too much, he noted as his worried eyes caught on to her swollen ankles. "Beth had no right asking you to fill in tonight... you weren't up to it." He frowned. "I was glad to help her, it was the least I could do after everything she's done for me..."

"But not in your condition Sheridan." "Would you stop, I'm not an--" "An invalid. I know. I guess I shouldn't complain. But you're over exhausting yourself, Sheridan. Look at your ankles..." His hand gently glided over them. "I think you need to just rest the next few days." "Rest sounds too good to be true." She smiled contentedly as she closed her eyes and rested her head against the pillows. "Come here." Luis placed her legs on his lap as he watched her close her eyes. His robust, husky hands tenderly massaged her feet as he witnessed her lull off to sleep. Silently, he moved off the bed.

"Goodnight, beautiful." Running his fingers through her wet, golden hair, his lips brushed across her cheek as he whispered to her. Moving his lips downward, he placed another kiss on her stomach. "You too, sweetie..." After covering her up and shutting off the lamp beside the bed, he made his way out the room. In the hallway, he pulled his cell out, dialing a familiar number. "Mama? Hi. I'm on my way home... but I'm not staying. Hmm? I'm at Sheridan's. I have so much to tell you..."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 14:

The small space was dimly lit and chilly as the little girl peaked out the door of the narrow closet. A wave full of terror coursed through her as she heard the men screaming at one another in the other room. Making out their faces was difficult to do in the darkness, but one of the voices she couldn't mistake had she wanted to. It was the deep, hateful voice that reigned with superiority towards anyone it came across. The same voice she had longed to hear approval in, or the merest hint of love, for the past twelve years.

Guns shots sounding throughout the hallway caused her to shy back against the wall, heart pounding faster by the minute. Clutching onto the metal object in her right hand, tears rolled down her rosy-pink cheeks. Trembling, her small fingers wrapped around the doorknob, arming herself with the shiny letter opener close to her chest. Before she could turn the handle, the door flew open and her big blue eyes expanded in fear of the man standing before her.

With one quick reflex, her arm lunged at him, driving the sharp opener deep into his flesh. A surge of anxiety filled her petite body as she watched him let out a throttled groan. With a quick flash she was standing in the middle of a silent living room. Blood flowed to the creases in her palms, and dripped through the creeks between her fingers. Fallen tears soon began to mix with the crimson substance as she fell to her knees beside the bloody sheet. "You're a bad girl, Sheridan. Now no one will ever love you."

Luis instinctively looked up as her cries echoed throughout the room. Within seconds he was upstairs in Sheridan's bedroom. His heart beat rapidly as he ran to her bedside and watched the scene before him. She was thrashing around under the blankets, tears storming down her red, puffy cheeks, and she was screaming cries that he had heard before. "Sheridan..." She continued in her sobbing daze. Gripping each of her shoulders with his hands Luis shook her lightly.

"Sheridan!" It was no use... she was too far into the past... her nightmares. His father. Luis felt ill thinking about it as he pushed himself further onto the bed and drew Sheridan closer. "I... I didn't mean to do it..." Her hazy eyes were open now. And her lips were trembling, along with the rest of her body as his warm arms surrounded her, holding her tightly. Her head laid contentedly against his chest as she tried to rid her consecutive sobbing.

"Shh... its all right. Everything's okay. I'm right here." He tried reassuring her as he kissed the top of her head. "Sheridan, you need to calm down. You have to, honey..." He held her as close as humanly possible as she continued crying. "You need to for yourself and for the baby. Come on, sweetie... think about the baby..." Kissing away her tears, he felt relief wash over him as her breathing became more steady and she sniffled slightly. He protectively placed a hand on her stomach and he brushed strands of hair from her tearstained face.

Her voice filled with terror as she stared off into the distance. "Guns... There were guns..." "Guns? Where...?" He immediately went into cop mode. "Are you remembering more about that night...?" She didn't answer him. Squeezing her arm gently, he tried to gain her attention. "Sheridan, are you remembering...?" Breaking back into reality, she quickly shook her head 'no'. Guns? That was ridiculous... She didn't want him to get worked up over nothing. "No, nevermind." She rubbed the back of her hand across the bottom of her eyes. His voice rose. "Damn it! If you remember something, just tell me Sheridan! This is important!"

This was his father they were talking about. He couldn't take it lightly. She continued shaking her head 'no' and Luis suddenly felt like a complete ass for blowing up at her as tears crept back into her eyes. "I... I'm sorry..." Sheridan stared at him, looking more like a lost little girl than ever. As he stared at her, all he could picture was how frightened and lonely she must have felt that night. His heart ached staring at her and he instantly pulled her back into his arms. "Let's just forget everything right now, okay? You need to relax..." He couldn't risk anything jeopardizing Sheridan or his baby's health. She nodded against his chest as he rubbed her back soothingly.

"Good. Why don't you go get dressed and then come downstairs. I made breakfast..." He grinned at her adoringly. "Chocolate chip pancakes with whipped cream -- your favorite." She forced a smile at his sweet gesture and moved herself off the bed. "Thank you." The smile on her face deceived how she was truly feeling inside. Whispering, he watched her sulk off into the bathroom. "I love you..." He looked pained as he got up and started making her bed.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 15:

After breakfast, Luis was in the kitchen putting the dishes away and cleaning up the pans. Sheridan sat in the dining room, finishing the last of the strawberries, haunted by the dream she had earlier that morning. Her mind was transfixed on the gunshots and as it replayed in her mind, her blood ran cold. Could her father have been so cruel as to kill a man in cold blood and then pass the blame off on his twelve year old daughter? She always knew her father didn't care about her, but was he that vindictive?

No, it couldn't be true. It was merely her subconscious playing tricks on her because she didn't want to face the fact that she had actually killed a man. 'Although...' Sheridan instantly shook the thought away. Even if it were true, there was no proof. Technically, there wasn't any proof she had killed him either, other than her confession under hypnosis. Thanks to her lack of proof, she was doomed to live the rest of her life in guilt and regret even if she was innocent -- there was absolutely no way of knowing.

She felt Luis' hands on her shoulders and looked up smiling lightly at him as he started to message them. "Awfully violent today aren't we? What did those strawberries ever do to you...?" Luis grinned as he watched Sheridan's fork continue to attack the red fruit. A grin crept to Sheridan's lips. "They're too tempting. They must die..." "In that case..." He grabbed a strawberry from the bowl. "I can help you get rid of them." She watched him devour the biggest one. "Hey! Those are essential to my craving needs... unless you're in the mood to run out to the store and get some more, I suggest you stop doing that!"

"Anything for you, my love." He grinned at her teasingly, hoping he didn't push it and make her too uncomfortable. "I just hope you remember that come time for my next chocolate craving -- I'm all out..." "Well, it just so happens I brought a stash with me..." "Where?" Sheridan's eyes brightened up and she spoke simultaneously with the ringing doorbell. Luis let out a soft chuckle. "I'll get it for you... after I get the door."

Ivy cradled the small infant in her arms as she rang the doorbell. He cooed up at her as she smiled proudly. Two month old Spencer Harrison Bennett was her pride and joy. It was a shock to everyone learning of Gwen's pregnancy after Ethan and Theresa had announced their engagement. As expected, Rebecca tried using it to her advantage, but thankfully Gwen had enough sense not to use her child as a weapon. Gwen and Ethan had both come to an understanding for Spencer's sake, and Rebecca couldn't have been more furious.

She tried harder than ever to sink her claws into Julian, but that was unsuccessful as well. Some people don't value what they have until they lose it, and that's exactly what happened with Julian. Much to Rebecca's dismay, once Ivy was out of his life, he realized just how much he needed her and Ivy was touched by his sincerity. So much so that they decided to start over and had been dating for several months. After letting Ivy inside, Luis took the baby out of her arms. "Hey there, buddy..." Luis adored Spencer. He often found himself baby-sitting whenever Ethan got the urge to take Theresa out instead of watching his son.

He smiled down at the small child and wondered for a moment what it would feel like to be holding his baby in the same manner in a few months. Ivy walked into the living room, to find Sheridan sitting on the couch, cuddled up with a fleece blanket, looking intrigued by the book she was reading. She didn't even look up as Ivy came in. "Good book?" Ivy smiled as she sat down beside the woman who became like a daughter to her over the past months. "Oh, hey." Sheridan returned her smile. "I didn't hear you come in." "Thurston House... Danielle Steel, huh? No wonder you're so addicted..." "It's like a soap opera in five hundred pages..." "Darling, your life is enough of a soap opera -- you don't need a book to get your dose of one..."

Sheridan let out a small laugh and set the book down beside her. She noticed the glowing aura of Ivy's face, and looked on questioningly. "So, what brings you over...? You look like you've just won the lottery... or perhaps Julian bought it out for you?" She paused and then her eyes widened. "You killed Rebecca, didn't you?" Now it was Ivy's turn to laugh. "As pleasing as that would have been... sadly, no. But..." Ivy trailed off, as her eyes widened with excitement. "...Julian's asked me to marry him... again!"

"Oh, Ivy!" Sheridan threw her arms around the older woman. "I'm so happy for you!" They both giggled like school girls as Sheridan stared at the large rock on Ivy's finger. "Anyway, we've decided to have Ethan and Theresa's reception at the mansion..." Ivy trailed off once again, studying Sheridan's features. She could spot the weary expression on Sheridan's face at the mention of the mansion. "I really hope you'll still come, Sheridan... it wouldn't be the same without you there." "I don't know..." She sank back into the couch as she continued staring at Ivy. "I doubt Fath--Alistair would approve."

Ivy squirmed a little bit on the couch at the mention of Alistair's name. She looked at Sheridan regretfully. "I probably should have told you this before..." "Told me what?" "Well, Alistair had a stroke last month... he's been in the hospital since." Sheridan was speechless for a moment and she felt her heart quench. "A stroke...?" Ivy nodded and continued. "Yes. In fact, he had another one last week. Damaged the nerves in the left side of his brain. It's bad, Sheridan. He can't move the whole left side of his body, and his speech is very poor right now. I know I shouldn't, but in a small way, I almost feel sorry for him."

Tears burned in the back of Sheridan's eyes. Why did she care so much for the man who had been nothing but cruel to her, her whole life? She didn't know why, but she did. She just stared at Ivy with shock-filled eyes. "Anyhow, Julian is now in charge of everything. I really hope you'll decide to come. Ethan would be devastated if you didn't." Sheridan hesitated for a moment. Fond memories didn't reside at the mansion and she couldn't picture herself going back there. On the other hand, she couldn't picture herself doing something to hurt Ethan. Shaking her head slightly, she replied softly. "I'll be there."

"Great!" Ivy glanced down at her watch. "Listen, I hate to ask you this, but do you think you could watch Spencer for a couple of hours? I have to go meet with Ethan and Theresa's caterer. He shouldn't be too much trouble -- I just fed and changed him. Besides, he seems to be very fond of Luis..." "No problem." Sheridan smiled. She loved having the baby over -- it was good preparation. And Spencer was the sweetest baby Sheridan had ever seen! "Thank you, sweetheart. I'll pick him up in a couple of hours." She leaned over and kissed Sheridan's cheek maternally, before retrieving her fur coat and leaving.

Sheridan stared into the flames before her for what seemed like an eternity. A lone tear trickled down her cheek, thinking of her father lying alone in the hospital. She knew it was ridiculous for her to care. After everything he had done to her throughout her life, it should have been the last thing on her mind. But it wasn't. He was still her father. Sure, he had never been kind to anyone, so it was expected that no one would want to see him. It just seemed a cruel thing to wish on any person who was on their death bed -- even Alistair Crane.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 16:

Sheridan looked up from her book as wailing sounds were heard from the next room. Just fifteen more pages to go... couldn't he have waited a few more minutes? Deciding to ignore the crying baby and leave him for Luis to contend with, she continued reading. The cries grew worse by the minute until she finally sighed in frustration and got up, making her way into the kitchen. Standing in the doorway, Sheridan couldn't help but laugh as she watched Luis struggle with the two month old and a bottle. "Need some help?" She came up behind him, taking the crying infant from his arms. Luis scratched his head as he stared at little Spencer. "I've tried everything! He just won't stop crying..."

"Here, let me see the bottle." She took it and tried gently prying it into his mouth. But he pushed it away and cried some more. "It's okay, sweetie. Auntie Sheridan's here... shhhh..." She rocked him soothingly as she kissed his tiny cheek and wiped the tears from his face. Luis grinned as he watched Sheridan coddle the baby in her arms and try to calm him down. She had a maternal way about her and he was positive she would be the best mother ever to live. Maybe he was a little biased, but she certainly had a way with children. "No trouble at all, Ivy..." He heard her murmur under her breath as she paced the kitchen, rocking him calmly. "You can't blame Ivy. He isn't usually this cranky..." Luis stated, trying to sound positive. "I know... and Ivy deserves a break. She seems to have him more than his own mother." Sheridan cupped Spencer's round, pudgy cheek, then moved her hand to his forehead as she looked up at Luis with worried eyes. "My God, he's burning up..." Coming up behind her, Luis felt the baby's head to see for himself. "I'll go call Eve."

"It's just a little ear infection, nothing to worry about. Just give this to Gwen..." She wrote out a prescription and handed it to Sheridan. She then handed her a little tube of liquid. "You can give this to him now, and he should be out like a light in a couple of minutes. He'll be back to his adorable little self in a few days." Eve gushed, as she patted the sandy blonde peach fuzz on top of his head. "Thank you, Eve." "No problem, I'm glad I could help. Now, I trust you're resting. I don't doubt for a minute that you are, seeing you're in the best hands."

She grinned at Luis, who smiled back at her as he squeezed little droplets of medicine into Spencer's mouth. "I couldn't do anything even if I wanted to. Having Luis around is like being in prison -- you eat, sleep, and stare at four walls." Sheridan smiled over at him teasingly. "Hey! That's not fair... you could do a lot worse! Like... like Ethan!" Sheridan started laughing and Luis quickly shushed her. "Wait... he's starting to fall asleep!" He stated in a soft whisper. 'I'm going to go.' Eve mouthed to Sheridan as she mouthed back 'Thank you again.' As Eve left, Sheridan walked over to Luis, and spoke softly. "Maybe we should go put him in the crib upstairs." She smiled down lovingly at the sleeping little boy, as she stroked his cheek.

Luis walked into the nursery to find Sheridan standing over the crib, gazing down at her God child. As he stepped closer, he watched her rubbing the baby's back and humming lightly, not acknowledging Luis' presence in the room. "You're going to be an amazing mother, Sheridan." Sheridan shrugged as she turned to face him. "I guess..." "You guess? Sheridan, look at how good you are with Spencer, and he's not even your own." "I just..." She looked down sadly, avoiding eye contact. "I just don't want to... mess up my daughter's life. You know, the way I did mine..."

"Sheridan..." He lifted her chin carefully to witness tears falling down her cheeks. She looked at him pensively as he continued. "You are the most wonderful woman I have ever known. And I know with every fiber of my being that you will be the best mother my child could ever have..." His sweetest only made her cry more, as he wrapped his arms around her and she buried her face in his chest. She wanted them to be a family more than anything, but it was all so complicated. Did he truly love her? Or was it just because she was carrying his child?

She wanted to believe it was because he loved her. And she did once she gazed up into his eyes and they held her's captive for several minutes. "God, I love you, Sheridan..." He brushed a strand of hair from her face, then leaned in to gently kiss away her tears. She sniffled and smiled at him through tears. "I love you, too, Luis... so much..." Their kiss started off tender, and grew more passionate with each minute. Then, he scooped her up into his arms, carrying her off into her bedroom. As he placed her down on the bed, he looked her over, making sure it was real. He had waited so many months for this moment, when they would reunite.

It seemed too good to be real. Luis ran a hand over her protruding stomach and looked down at her. "Are you sure you want to do this...?" She nodded at him seductively. Closing her eyes, she leaned her head back into the pillows as Luis unzipped the back of her dress. He pulled it down, inch by inch, kissing the newly exposed skin as he went along. A soft moan escaped her lips just as the doorbell sounded throughout the house. They both stared at each other for a moment, as Luis let out a frustrated groan. "Damn it!"

To Be Continued...

Chapter 17:

"There's my darling boy!" Ivy took little Spencer into her arms and swooned over her only grandson. "I hope he wasn't any trouble." "Nope. Just a little ear infection." Ivy eyed Luis curiously. "An ear infection?" "Yeah, he was burning up so we called Eve. She said he should be back to new in a few days. Just give this to Gwen." He handed her the plastic bag with the medicine in it, along with the diaper bag. "Oh, my poor baby." She kissed his warm cheek before easing him into the baby carrier. Looking up at Luis, she continued strapping the baby in. "Where's Sheridan?" Luis could feel his cheeks flush as a grin appeared at his lips. "She's... uh... she's resting -- upstairs."

"Right..." Ivy smiled a knowing smirk at him, slinging the diaper bag over her shoulder. "Next time you should really look while buttoning up your shirt." She motioned to his uneven buttons and his cheeks turned even redder. "And really, Luis, pink is certainly not your shade." Winking at him, she walked out the door. "Thanks again!" "Don't mention it..." He mumbled under his breath, wiping the pink lipstick from his face.

As he entered the bedroom, Luis paused to take in the sight before him. His eyes scoured the dimly lit room to find burning candles spread throughout. Rose petals were scattered about on top of the soft, off-white comforter and romantic music was heard in the background. Stepping further inside, his eyes caught hold of the beautiful figure standing in front of him. Sheridan stood before him, gazing at him insecurely as she bit her bottom lip lightly, waiting for his reaction.

"Wow..." He whispered as he looked her up and down. She wore a lacy, black negligée that was like eye candy for Luis. The black cloth fit her curves perfectly -- she looked incredible for being nearly eight months pregnant. "You're so beautiful..." He spoke breathlessly as he moved closer to her, reaching his hand out to stroke her cheek with his fingers. "So incredibly beautiful..." He watched the glowing reflection from the fire dance in her golden hair as he ran his fingers through it. Before Luis could say anything more, Sheridan was drawing him close, devouring him in a steamy kiss. Pulling away slightly, he let out a small chuckle.

"A little hasty, aren't we?" "I want you..." She mumbled with a grin, only inches away from his lips. "I can see that..." He murmured back joshingly, as he carefully lifted Sheridan into his arms, bringing her over to the bed. As he lowered her to the comforter covered in roses, she looked up at him concerned. "Are you all right?" "Why wouldn't I be all right?" "I don't know... that's the second time you've done that tonight. I'm just surprised I haven't broke your back." Luis laughed at her absurd comment. "In case you haven't noticed..." His head motioned down to his arm and he flexed his strong biceps, showing off his muscles. Sheridan giggled softly at the adorable look on his face as he gloated.

"A little modest, aren't we, Officer?" "As modest as they come!" "Seriously..." She smiled at him sadly. "Do you really want to do this? I mean, look at me! I'm a cow!" She placed a hand on her exceedingly large belly, and gave Luis an apologetic look. Running his fingers along her jawbone, he sat beside her, capturing her depressed eyes with his longing ones. He spoke in a lulling tone as he caressed her cheek. "Sheridan, do you have any idea how much I love you?"

The sincerity in his voice made her heart swell. Sheridan didn't think she could love him any more than she did at that moment. No one had ever cared for her the way he did, and she was sure no one else ever would. Many men had uttered those three little words to her in the past, but it was different with Luis -- she believed him when he said it. With Luis, it was as if nothing else in the world mattered when he looked at her. His honest eyes proved that actions spoke louder than words. Tears sprung to her own eyes as she watched him move his hand on top of hers, which was resting on her stomach.

"You..." He started to play with her fingers, continuing to gaze lovingly at her. "You happen to be the most gorgeous woman I have ever laid eyes on." He quickly moved his forefinger to her lips as she opened her mouth to protest. " And..." He moved his hand back to her stomach. "The fact that you're carrying my child makes you even more beautiful... if that's possible." A tear trickled down her cheek, and Luis leaned over her, kissing it away. They both stared at one another for a long moment. No more words needed to be spoken -- it was clear what they both wanted.

One by one, Sheridan undid the buttons on Luis' shirt and ran her finger down his muscular chest. Closing his eyes, Luis inhaled sharply at her touch -- the touch he had missed the tedious four months he had been away from her. The shirt soon fell off his shoulders, as she began toying with the zipper on his pants. Hastily, he helped her rid himself of the rest of his clothing.

And then it was his turn to cause her to lose her breath as his hands expertly teased her sensitive breast. She moaned with great pleasure as he continued, while removing the black cloth she bore. "God, I love you..." He said in a husky whisper, which led into a night that neither would ever forget. They made passionate love into odd hours of the morning, when they both fell sound asleep, content in each others arms.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 18:

"I can't believe you didn't tell me, Mama!" "You have too much to worry about right now. I didn't want to add to that list." "But, Mama! I've only been gone for two weeks, and you've just up and decided to sell my house?" Luis glanced around at the half empty boxes surrounding the living room. Everything was scattered about in the mists of sorting and packing. "MY house, Mijo." "Your house that I pay the mortgage on..." Luis' voice still held respect for the woman who raised him since birth, but it also bore a hint of a challenging tone. "Which is precisely why this is the only option. Theresa's gone; you have Sheridan..." Pilar smiled warmly at her son's girlfriend -- the woman who she'd practically raised as her own. "And with the baby on the way, you have your plate full. It's just me and your brother Miguel now." When he's not over at the Bennett's, she felt like adding. "It seems more practical to live somewhere smaller." What Pilar neglected to tell him was that with Julian running Crane Industries, he lost a fortune on a bad investment, causing him to cut her pay.

Luis sighed sadly as he tightened his arm around Sheridan, pulling her closer to him. He knew what she was saying was the truth. They had been struggling to make ends meet for years, and now Luis had a family of his own to contend with. Still, it broke his heart to see the house he had known for so long being sold. Helplessly, Luis looked around. "Can we... do you need help packing?" Sheridan asked softly. "Are you up to it...?" Pilar returned, half surprised, half expecting Sheridan to offer her help -- it was just in her nature. "Ah, Mama. You've just crossed a deadly zone... if I were you I'd turn around fast. There's one thing I've learned the past few weeks -- NEVER question Sheridan's mobility. She plans to be up and about until the minute before she goes into labor. Even then we'll probably have to tie her down..." Sheridan grinned and hit him playfully, before looking back at Pilar. "Don't listen to him! I'm not that bad... really." Luis chuckled lightly as he grabbed a few empty boxes. "Sure..." "I'm not!" She shot back at him defensively, as she, too, picked up several empty boxes, and trailed behind him, glaring with mockery.

"You okay?" Luis glanced over at Sheridan, who was rummaging through the eaves of the attic. The place was a mess and Sheridan found herself fighting with dust bunnies every step of the way! Luis stared on quizzically as no response followed. "Need help...?" He started to approach her. "Uhh.... yeah, actually I do." His eyes expanded with surprise. Since when did she admit to needing help? "With what...?" He walked up behind her, watching her as she leaned over a box. "Standing up..." Sheridan let out a tired groan, dropping the book she was holding into the cardboard box. Laughing, Luis wrapped his arms around Sheridan's waist from behind her, as she stood, leaning back against him. "Mmmmm... to hell with packing." Luis growled softly as he nuzzled the back of her neck. "You're so bad, Officer..." She laughed lightly as he lifted her up, carrying her to an old couch in the corner of the room. "Hey, you've never complained before!" He took his seat beside her, pushing a bunch of old things aside. Nestling herself against him she grabbed the small, black book. "What's this?" Curiously, she studied it. "Hmmm?" Luis' mind couldn't stay on anything but the sweet smell of the lingering scent of her shampoo, as he kissed the top of her head. "This." She placed the black photo album on his lap and stared up at him waiting for him to open it.

"Just some old photos, I guess... never seen it before." Sheridan eyed the small book curiously. "Don't you want to know what the pictures are of?" His eyes roamed her delicate features. "Not particularly." "Well, I do!" Retrieving it from his lap, she started flipping through the first few pages. "It's Ivy and Julian's wedding..." Sheridan stated in slight surprise, seeming skeptical of her remembrance of the event way in the back of her head. She resumed looking at the photos as vague memories started to appear. "Hmmm?" Luis leaned over to look as well. Grinning, he pointed to the picture on the right. Standing in front of the big, white church, was a little girl of about two years of age. Her big blue eyes were gazing upward, as if she was staring at a near by person who was twice her size. A strand of her long, golden, curly locks was twisted around her tiny forefinger. And her face bore the sweetest little smiled which tugged at your heart and ended at her chubby, pink cheeks. Her violet dress was completed with white, lacy ruffles that puffed out at the bottom, which her other hand took interest in. Luis' heart melted at the sight of the little doll in the picture. Even then, twenty-six years later, Luis could tell who she was at first glance. "I was the flower girl..." Sheridan smiled, remembering. "The most beautiful one I've ever seen." "I was cute, wasn't I?" She grinned teasingly.

Softly caressing her stomach and coddling her closer, he smiled back. "Our little girl is going to look just like that in two years." He motioned to the picture as Sheridan laughed. "Just as gorgeous and adorable as her Mommy was." "How can you be so sure? Maybe she'll have black hair and eyes just like her Daddy's?" Luis shook his head adamantly as he continue rubbing her stomach. "Nope, not this one. This one's going to be her Mommy, through and through." "You seem awfully confident in your theory...?" He grinned yet again. "Gut feeling." "Say no more... you and your gut feeling!" Giggling, she turned the page. Her eyes widened at the pictures filling it. "Hey, that's me!" Luis perked up, his eyes catching the photos. The little boy of four years old had jet black hair that accented his tanned, olive complexion. His hair matched the color of the tuxedo he wore, and from the expression on his face, it was obvious he was very proud of his attire and knew he looked good -- perhaps he was told one time too many? The suave little man stood beside a boy who looked almost identical to him, other than the fact he was slightly older. "Why was I there?" "Maybe because your mother is friends with Ivy?" "Yeah, I guess that makes sense."

"Antonio...?" She pointed to the little boy beside Luis. He just nodded sadly. "You were so adorable!" Sheridan gushed over the young picture of the man she loved. "You must have been one hell of a player even at the age of four! I bet all the little girls drooled over you!" Luis started to chuckle, pointing to the next picture. "Apparently this little girl did." In the picture, a two year old Sheridan stood gazing up at a four year old Luis adoringly, as he bashfully handed her the bouquet of flowers. She joined him in laughter. "I can't believe we knew each other... how ironic is that?" "Not too ironic, given our families connections." "Well, I don't recall playing with handsome little boys as a child. In fact, I don't recall playing with any little boys as a child." "Do you recall kissing any little handsome boys as a child?" Luis grinned mockingly at her, after flipping the page. There, was a picture of 'Little Sheridan' and 'Little Luis' smooching in a garden of roses behind the church. "I rest my case! You certainly got around... right into one big circle! Starting with me, and hopefully ending with me." She smiled lovingly at him. "Naw... I was no player. At least not then. Just had good taste and knew the woman of my dreams when I saw her." Pulling her closer, he placed a tender kiss on her lips. As they pulled apart, look of discomfort took Sheridan's face. "What's wrong? Is it the baby?" Luis suddenly started to panic. "No, no! Something's..." She reached behind herself. "Something's sticking into my back..." Taking the small, well taped box from behind her, she placed it on her lap. "It says 'Theresa' on it..."

"She must have forgotten that one?" Luis took the end of his key and started cutting the secure tape away. "What are you doing?" "Opening it to see what's inside." "That's your sister's!" "I know, and I'll bring it over to her after." "Maybe its something private?" Luis pulled a pair of ballet slippers and a black tutu out. "Looks real private." "Aww..." Sheridan gushed over the small shoes as Luis continued throwing items over to her. "Just a bunch of old dolls and toys." Sheridan's face went pale as she stared at the doll in Luis' hand. "That's Bessy..." "I see you're acquainted with my sister's old friends?" "No. No, that's my doll! My doll... the one my father threw away! The one my mother gave me..." She grabbed it from his hand as he looked on confused. "If he threw it away, how is it here? Maybe you just both had the same doll..." "No, this doll is mine..." She examined the small doll she lost so long ago -- the only friend she had growing up. "See, her sleeve was ripped. I remember the day that happened. Ethan decided he wanted to play tug of war with her." She smiled lightly, reminiscing, as a small object fell out of Bessy's back. "What the...?" Luis reached over, taking the tape. Sheridan quickly flipped the doll around to see where it came from. "Why did someone sew a video into my doll?" "Wait, there's a note attached." Luis read silently. My sweet Sheridan, When you find this tape, don't tell ANYONE. Bring it to the police, pronto, and don't say who gave it to you. Love, Phyllis Luis' eyes grew suspicious as he looked up from the note. "Who's Phyllis?"

To Be Continued...

Chapter 19:

"Phyllis?" Sheridan stared at Luis in a state of confusement. Luis nodded lightly, trying to make sense of the situation. "I don't remember any... oh, wait." Sheridan's face strained a bit, obviously trying to remember. "Phyllis... I had a nanny named Phyllis. Right before I left for Paris." "Why would your nanny want a little girl to bring a video to the police? And more importantly, what exactly is on this tape?" Luis spoke outloud, more to himself than to Sheridan. Sheridan eyed the tape, her curiousity peeking. "I guess there's only one way to find out..." "You want to watch it?" "Well, you would be considered the police part, and it was in my doll. So, I think we have the right to, don't you?" "But we have no idea whats on it. I mean, it must be serious if she wanted you to put it in the hands of the law, right? Maybe whatevers on there might be too traumatizing for you to see. I don't know if its a good idea." "Luis, thank you for your concern, but I think I can handle it. I survived being buried alive, didn't I? I think I can handle just about anything after that." Luis paused, rotating glances between Sheridan and the tape. "Do you..." His voice was barely audible at the prospect. "Do you... think that maybe, maybe the tape has something to do with... my father?" The mention of his father hit Sheridan's nerves, but she forced a smile, trying to give him hope. "Maybe..." She knew how much it meant to him finding out the truth about his father. She wanted that for him more than anything, even if it meant losing him -- he deserved to know the truth.

Back at home, Luis stood in front of the VCR, fondling with a tape, trying to get it out. Sheridan stood behind him, watching him carefully as he continued trying to remove the video. "Why is it that fate always works against us?" Luis rolled his eyes slightly. "Sweetie, you've been hanging around Theresa too much." Sheridan sighed. "I'm hungry. I'm going to go get us something to eat. What do you want?" "Actually, I'm all set from the snack we had five minutes ago." "Very funny." She grinned in mock amusement, as she waddled her way into the kitchen. Luis searched the room for something to pry the tape out with but nothing caught his attention. Studying it carefully, he managed to get it at just the right angle, and carefully removed it. "Sheridan, it's out!" He beckoned her from the other room. At the sound of his voice, she quickly hurried back, with sodas and a bag of popcorn in hand. After slipping the mysterious video into the VCR, Luis scurried over to Sheridan taking the food from her hands. Swiftly, he led her over to the couch and sat beside her before pressing play. Their eyes sat transfixed on the screen before them. The snowy static was strainful as they forced themselves to make out the blurry images. Soft moans were heard from the TV and all they could make out were two bodies pressed up against one another. From the angle of the shot, it appeared to be taken by some sort of hidden camera -- prehaps a security camera.

"Is this some kind of sick joke?" Sheridan heard Luis mutter under his breath. Encouragingly, she took his hand in his and squeezed tightly as their eyes turned their attention back to the screen. And then they saw it -- something they thought they'd never see in their wildest dreams. He stood beside her and, undoing the buttons of her uniform, raining kisses down her body. "Tonight Pilar," he said, his voice a whisper against her skin, "you are all mine." She thrilled at the possessive tone of Alistair's words. He continued to hold her eyes captive as he leaned down to softly lick her nipples. His mouth on her breast, sucking , teeth scraping. His elegant hands relentless so that her cries came out in wimpers of shock and gratitude. His hand slid beneath her uniform, up her inner thigh as they moved toward the bed.

The room was silent. All that could be heard was the small gasp of air that left Sheridan's lips. Luis' whole body was numb as he sat there. This wasn't real. It couldn't be. It was all just a bad dream. He would soon wake up to the sound of birds chirping, and Sheridan wrapped tightly in his arms. He would wake up... wouldn't he? Sheridan squeezed his arm gently. "Honey, I think we've seen enough." She tried her best to tear his gaze from the television screen but it was a hopeless cause. "No..." He didn't want to watch, in fact, it was painful to watch; but, oddly, at the same time, he felt he needed to. Pilar arched her back eargerly as his mouth continued its blissful torture. His fingers slipped inside her panties to softly caress her. She shivered as an electrifying wave of pleasure shot through her. And through it all, he held her gaze a willing participant to him and to his touch.

He stood to take off his clothes, once again never moving his eyes from hers. She watched him shed his suit, shirt and tie with a growing wonder at the magnificient body being uncovered. She had felt the physical strength of these arms. But his suits had hidden the well-developed muscles of his shoulders and chest. He lay beside her and slipped off the rest of her uniform and panties, touching and kissing every part of her he exposed with his gentle caresses. He kissed her ears, her neck, her breasts, her nipples. All of her. She had never been loved like this, not even when she and Martin were first married. Her body never felt so wanton or willing.

"Luis, I think that we've seen quite enough." Sheridan rose, ready to put a stop to the torturous video. The sight of her father and the woman she looked up to and respected all of her life made her stomach turn. All she could think of was that if it was that disturbing for her, it must have been a thousand times more disturbing for Luis. Her father had never been an admirable one, but Pilar was the foundation of the Lopez-Fitzgerald household. She was sure Luis was crushed and it needed to end -- now. "No, just sit down." His voice seemed weak as he reached out and sat her back down, pulling her into his tight embrace. He rolled onto his back, bringing her with him. She straddled his waist, reveling in the way he kept kissing and touching her, never letting the physical contact between them break, just as he never let his eyes move from hers. She moaned in pleasure as the heat soared through her once more. She called to him. Hungrily he took her mouth as he came to her.

He filled her completely. She felt it in every cell of her being as their rhythms matched, as they rolled together on the bed in the celebration of the physical joy they gave to each other. Suddenly, static consumed the screen once again. Both just sat there, silently, staring in disbelief at what they had just witnessed. Sheridan felt the hand Luis had rested on her stomach slowly turn into a fist and she quickly wrapped her own hand around it as she glanced up at him. A lone tear trickled down his cheek, as he stared blankly across the room. "Sweetie...?" No answer. "Honey, talk to me..." She begged him, softly. He left her in silence, as she watched him rapidly fall apart inside.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 20:

"Maybe there's some sort of mistake...?" Sheridan offered optimistically. Luis shook his head. "No. No, there's no mistake." He tried hiding his hurt under his anger-filled tone, but Sheridan could see right through him. "We both saw the same thing." "Unfortunately..." "But we saw it just the same..." Sheridan nodded in agreement, not quite sure where to take the subject at hand. "Why, in God's name, would someone put that in a little girl's doll?" "Well, in all fairness -- she said in the letter to bring it to someone. I don't think she intended for me to watch..." "But why?" The question plagued Luis. What kind of evidence was that? The tape did nothing but prove his Mama was just another common whore. "How could she do that?" Luis' voice caught in his throat. "...to Papa?" Soothingly, Sheridan rubbed his back. "I'm sure there's a good explanation." But even as she said it, Sheridan knew she offered him no consolation with that statement. What they saw spoke louder than words. "I don't want one... I don't give a damn." He slammed his fist on the couch, before standing up and pacing beside the coffee table. Why? Why? The question continued to haunt him. There was obviously a reason behind putting that tape in the doll. But what? What was that reason? And where would they begin looking for all the answers?

Luis finally stopped his tedious pacing and stood before her. "Phyllis..." He stated thoughtfully. "Sheridan, listen. I need you to remember... what happened to Phyllis?" She stated at him for a moment, then shrugged. "She either quit or was fired, I don't remember. Do you know how many nannies I went through?" "Okay, do you remember her last name? Please tell me you remember something?" She looked at him regretfully. "I'm sorry, honey." "It's not your fault." Sadly sighing, he sat down beside her again. "What if we could find out?" "What do you mean?" "I mean, my father keeps documents on everyone and anyone who has ever worked for him." "We could find her name, then track her down!" Luis spoke enthusiastically in thought. "Exactly." "But how...?" "I'll talk to Ivy. We can get her to distract Julian while we search the office." "You're a genius!" Pleased, Sheridan grinned in agreement. "I know."

Luis' ear was pressed up against the door. Giggling was heard from the end of the hallway and a serious expression took his face. "Sheridan..." He spoke in a whisper. "I hear someone..." "Hold on..." Her tone matched his. "It's probably just the help." She proceeded searching through the documents. Julian's voice was nearing and Luis' panic grew. His eyes peaked out the crack of the door to reveal his destiny. "Julian..." Ivy beckoned him in a sultry voice from the end of the hall. She modeled a purple negligee that Luis would normally think off-limits for a woman old enough to be his mother. This wasn't the proper, reserved Ivy Crane that Harmony knew as the resident "Ice Queen"! Her white-blonde locks were curled and resting on her shoulders. His eyes trailed a path down from the end of her curls to the last seam on the lacy cloth she wore. Luis' couldn't help but stare.

"Ahem." Uh-oh... Luis' face turned bright red as Sheridan cleared her voice. "Staring at anything interesting, sweetie?" "Uh, interesting? No, why would you say that?" Apologetically, he turned around and grinned. Sheridan just rolled her eyes -- there was nothing else to do. 'Men...' She shook the subject out of her mind. "Look what I have..." She placed the file in his hands. "Open it..." His fingers carefully opened the manila envelope and pulled out a few papers. "Phyllis Adler..." "You found it!" His eyes lit up, reading the document on the woman who could set them just in the right direction to find the truth on his father.

"That I did." "I love you!!" His arms flung around Sheridan, pulling her into a tight bear hug. "Whoa there, tiger...!" He chuckled as he pulled away a bit. "I know you're excited -- I am too. But do you think you could try to not kill your daughter next time...?" "Aww...." Carefully, he bent down and placed soft butterfly kisses against her stomach. "Daddy's sorry, baby..." She ran her fingers through his thick, black hair and smiled down lovingly at him. "I think she forgives you..." "Of course she does... she's Daddy's little princess." "Already, huh?" "Yup! Now lets get out of here before Julian comes back. From the look on Ivy's face, I doubt it will be any time soon, but just to be on the safe side." "And from the look on your face, I'm sure you'd rather she came back sooner than later..." "Funny." "I thought so..."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 21:

Squinting to no end, Sheridan tried to make out the scene before her through the black cloth covering her eyes. It was hopeless. Even if by some miracle she could get a glimpse, it was pitch black outside. "Can you please tell me where we're going?" She whined for the umpteenth time, hoping that this might be the time he gave in. "Stop wasting your breath, sweetie, you'll see when we get there." Luis guided her along, with one hand on the small of her back and the other on her arm. A swish of chilly, salt air nearly knocked her down as her shoes hit the sand. Before she could realize what happened, Luis' arms surrounded her and she felt a small blanket wrap around her shoulders. "Cold?"

"Just a little. Geez, where are you taking me? Antarctica?" "Naw, that's too far away. We haven't been walking that long." "Well, it feels like it. My feet hurt..." Pouting, her complaints caused her to stop where she was. "Aww..." Luis mocked playfully, scooping her up in his arms. "I didn't say I couldn't walk!" She shot back to his surprise. "You never complained before?" His voice slightly defensive. "Yeah, well, I am now!" Any passerby would have found the scene hilarious. Here he was, attempting to make a romantic gesture, and she, eight months pregnant, lay in his arms, practically kicking and screaming like a two year old -- with a blindfold over her eyes no less. 'Just one more month... only one more month.' Luis sighed placing her back on the sand. "Thank you." Her voice became more reserved. Luis continued walking, still wondering how he'd survive the next month, when he realized he was suddenly alone.

"Sheridan?" He turned to find her in the exact place he left her. She was just standing there, blindfold off, and a look of discomfort on her face as her hands massaged the sides of her stomach. "Sheridan? Baby, what's wrong?" He rushed to her side, panic consuming him. "Nothing... it's nothing. Everything's fine." She forced him a smile that he didn't buy. "Fine? Are you sure? Is it the baby?" "She just jolted into my side a little... but I'm fine..." "Are you sure?" A nagging feeling ate away at him. "You worry too much!" "Of course I worry, honey. If I don't worry about my girls, who will?" His arm crept behind her back, pulling her into his embrace. "Now, you're sure?" "Yes! You're worse than a nagging mother!" Luis chuckled. "Now, why did you bring me to the beach again?"

"You have to ruin every surprise, don't you?" He motioned over to the left and Sheridan saw it. In the distance, a large blanket covered a portion of the sand. On top, a feast was laid out which could feed at least ten hungry men... or one pregnant woman. Candles burned, surrounding the food. The moonlight reflected on the water as the waves crashed near the blanket. Sheridan didn't even notice the tears falling down her face until Luis' hand cupped her cheek. "Why are you crying? Did I do something wrong?" She couldn't help but smile through her tears. He looked like a little boy about to be punished by his mother. "No... it's... it's... perfect." It was hard for her to get out the words as she burst into sobs. It was almost comical the way her mood completely took a one-eighty in only a matter of minutes. Luis had to fight back his laughter as he hugged her tightly.

"Then why are you crying, sweetie?" "Because... its... perfect. Why? Why are you so good to me?" Good to her? Wasn't she just screaming at him a moment ago for picking her up? Luis squeezed her into his embrace a little more and smiled. "Oh, that answer's simple..." She looked at him expectantly. "Because I love you, silly." "Oh, right." She grinned back at him. "Now, come on... I'm starving. And I know you must be." "Aren't I always?" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ "You barely touched your food?" "Eh, I haven't really been hungry all day... I'm so sorry, honey. I know you went out of your way to make this special, I just..." Luis placed his forefinger over her lips.

"Shh... no apologies. Just being here with you is worth it." He drew her into his arms, placing soft kisses into her golden hair. They laid spread out on the plaid blanket, gazing at the waves crashing on the sand. Sheridan inhaled the salty breeze. Could life get any better? Being in Luis' arms, watching the moon glisten off the water, listening to the waves hit the shore. It was almost perfection. Almost. The only thing that didn't match up to perfection was her discomfort. She felt like a beached whale, lying there in the sand. Sharp little pains went threw her sides and she lightly sighed in frustration. Luis' fingers found their way to her stomach, and began tracing light circles at the top. His strong hands then worked to message her round belly and she smiled contentedly. "I love you so much..." He whispered lullingly, his lips meeting her neck then teasing her ear lobe.

"Mmmm... I love you more. Especially when you do that...." What was he doing to her?! Her hormones were running wild as it was. Was he trying to push her over the top?! Drive her insane?! "Good." One hand was soon out of her site as he reached behind himself, rummaging through his things. He left her no time to think however, for his lips were soon near her ear again. "Show me how much you love me then..." He paused and to her, he almost seemed nervous. "Marry me?" His husky voice made her shiver at the words she had longed to hear. Taking the small black box from his hands, she stared at the elegant diamond in awe. "It's... beautiful..." Tears welled in her eyes as she leaned back and looked up at him. Hopefully, he grinned. "Is that a 'yes'? Will you do me the honor of being my wife?"

Sheridan quickly turned around, crouching on her knees to face him. "Yes, yes it's a 'yes'! I want nothing more than to be Mrs. Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald! Actually... I thought you'd never ask..." She laughed gleefully as he took the ring and started to slide it on her finger. Cupping his cheeks in her hands, she gave him the most heartfelt kiss she had ever given anyone. He returned it with just as much emotion, if not more. This was the moment he had been waiting for since months before when he initially bought the ring. But somehow, it seemed more special now -- just right. Now, she was carrying his child -- now they could be a real family. A look of excitement captured Sheridan's face as she broke the kiss. "Let's get married right away!" Luis let out a small laugh. "What's the rush, baby?"

"I want to get married before the baby's born and then have a 'real' wedding after!" "But the baby's due in less than a month..." "I know, but we can have Father Lonigan marry us this week... please, Luis?" "But why?" Sheridan frowned, feeling silly. "It's just -- please don't laugh?" Luis nodded for her to continue. "I just want... well, I want us to bring our baby into the world as husband and wife... it just seems more... special. You know? I guess it doesn't matter... it will be special no matter what. I just, oh, forget it. We can get married whenever you want."

"No. No, I completely understand, sweetie. It's what you want, and I'm all for it. We can do it as soon as Father Lonigan can marry us." "Really?" Sheridan was touched by Luis' sweet tone. "I love you so much..." She leaned over to kiss him, but he stopped her half way. "Wait..." His hand scanned the flannel blanket and then looked at Sheridan questioningly. "Why is the blanket wet?" "What?" She glanced down to see the blanket drenched, coming from where she sat. A petrified look took her features. Both sat staring at one another in shock, not quite sure what to do next.

To Be Continued...