Tax Time
Written By: Dabney Hopkirk
Chapter 1:
Luis and Sheridan lingered on the doorstep to her cottage. They couldn't part, but Luis needed to get home and Sheridan really wanted to talk with Julian. Luis kissed her again and tried to let go of her. "I don't want to leave you. I keep thinking if I let go of you, I will wake up and realize this has all been a dream." Sheridan smiled, "Luis, it's not a dream. I'm here and I'm not going anywhere." They both thought back to the past few weeks in France. They had just gotten back and now it was time to find out who was behind the misunderstanding that broke them apart. Sheridan continued, "Now as much as I hate to say it, you'd better go. Your mother is probably worried sick about you. I need to go up to the mansion and see my family." Luis looked concerned, "Why don't I go with you?" Sheridan shook her head, "No. I need to do this on my own. Julian has some explaining to do. And I also need to see Ethan." He kissed her goodbye and gave her a big hug, "I'll call you later, ok?" Sheridan agreed and watched him drive away.
Sheridan walked up the stairs at the mansion on her way to Ethan's room. Ethan and Theresa were in his room talking over wedding plans for Ethan's wedding to Gwen. Ethan saw Sheridan standing in the doorway and ran to hug her, "Sheridan, I didn't realize you were coming home today. I am so glad your back. Where's Luis? I want to thank him personally for saving you and bringing you home to us." Sheridan explained, "He just left to go back home." Theresa exclaimed, "I can't believe you two finally cleared things up. I am so happy, and I know that my brother is over the moon." Sheridan smiled and said, "How are things going here? Have you guys got this wedding all planned?" Ethan asked Sheridan to take a look at the plans, but Sheridan explained that she needed to see Julian. Ethan asked, "Are you sure you don't want me to come with you?" Sheridan replied, "No. I need to do this on my own." She saw that Ethan was distressed, "It may be that your father had nothing to do with this. I just need to talk with him." Theresa tried to change the subject, "Did you say Luis was headed home?" Sheridan said, "Yeah. He wanted to catch up with you guys…which reminds me…Luis still doesn't know you are working here, does he?" Theresa said, "No. Not exactly, but now that you two are together, he can't be angry, right?" Sheridan was concerned, "Well, I suppose not, but still I would feel better if you told him as soon as possible. I hate hiding things from him. He'll find out soon anyway because I imagine that he will be over here quite a bit now." Sheridan thought how wonderful it would be to have Luis in her life.
Luis was alone at home. He started going through the mail when he remembered the date…almost April 15. Time to get the tax forms together. He had pretty much finished everyone's forms, but he had put Theresa's unopened W-2 to the side. He opened it and was stunned by the contents. "What the hell is this? Theresa's been working for the Cranes." Luis got his coat and headed to the mansion.
Sheridan saw Julian in the Living Room, "Hello, Julian." Julian was caught off guard and jumped. "Sheridan! I didn't expect you home so soon." Sheridan replied, "I can see that. Look, Julian…we need to talk." Julian got uncomfortable, "Sheridan. I told you on the phone already…I don't know anything about what happened between you and Officer Lopez-Fitzgerald. If I were you, I would be asking Luis to explain himself." Sheridan answered, "Luis has explained, and I believe him. I know what you and father are capable of, Julian." Julian walked over to her and looked at her with his best sincere face, "Sister, I would never do anything to interfere with your happiness. When I heard about your abduction in Paris, I was sick with worry. We were all relieved that Luis was there to save you from those bastards." Sheridan wasn't buying it. "Kind of makes you wonder why Luis would risk his life if he was just using me, now doesn't it?" She had a point. Julian replied, "Well, maybe he didn't say those things. I mean, you have always been one to let your imagination run wild." Sheridan knew his meaning and remained strong. "Julian, I didn't imagine this, and Luis and I will get to the bottom of it." Julian warned, "Sheridan, trust me…you don't want to press this issue. You don't want Luis to start digging into the past, now do you? How would he react if he knew what you were really like? His beloved Sheridan. So unlike the other Cranes." Julian laughed. Sheridan was starting to worry but continued to put on a brave front, "Julian, I have nothing to be ashamed of. I was a child, and it was just a terrible nightmare." Sheridan looked at Julian to read his face. Had it really just been a nightmare? She knew that Luis would still love her. But what if she had killed someone?
Just then, Luis entered the room, "Sheridan, how long have you been keeping this from me?" Sheridan turned to him. Had he heard her and Julian? Julian excused himself, "Well, I can see you two lovebirds have some talking to do." Julian lurked outside the door. Luis demanded again, "How long, Sheridan? How could you not tell me?" Sheridan shivered, "I wanted to, Luis. I just didn't know how you would react. It's been killing me inside, but I just didn't know how to tell you when I had kept it a secret for so long." Sheridan was getting upset. Luis was silent. Sheridan continued, "I feel really terrible about this Luis. Can you ever forgive me?" Still Luis said nothing. Sheridan said, "I understand. You probably want to be alone. I'll go." Sheridan walked out the door and Luis thought about going after her. He heard Julian stumbling around outside the door and walked over, "Where is my sister?" Julian was confused, "Your sister…well how should I know. She is probably in Ethan's room." Luis felt the heat on his face as he heard this…Ethan's room. He headed up the stairs to find her. "Theresa, get your coat…we're leaving." Theresa was scared, "Luis, it's not what you think. I am helping Ethan plan his wedding to Gwen." "We're not going to talk about this here. Get your coat. We're leaving." Ethan started to explain, "Look, Luis. It's not what you think. Gwen has to be away until the wedding and she asked Theresa to help us. Her design book is over there. This is strictly professional." Luis remained cold, "I don't really care about that, Ethan. All I know is that my sister has been lying to me for many, many months, and you have all been covering for her. I won't tolerate lying." With that, Theresa and Luis left.
Sheridan walked aimlessly all over town, trying to tell herself that it was going to be ok. She walked to the overlook and sat on a bench watching the ocean. There was a storm rolling in and it seemed to ride the waves to her. How could this have happened? They had just found each other in France. He told her he loved her…that nothing would keep them apart. She realized that she should have told him about That Night, but what was there to say? She had a bad dream. Her family thought she was unstable. None of it made any sense to her so how would Luis understand it? There was always the "what if" lingering out there. Had Julian lied to her? It seemed so real. Maybe it wasn't a dream. Sheridan felt sick and didn't even realize that the storm had reached her.
Luis, Theresa, and Pilar sat in the kitchen as Pilar and Theresa explained the situation to Luis. "We didn't tell you because we knew your reaction." Pilar said. Theresa continued, "At first, it just started as a job with Mrs. Crane, but then Gwen and Ethan were so impressed with me that I starting helping them out too. Luis, I love my job. They pay me very well, and it hasn't interfered with my classes." Luis sat and listened. "What bothers me the most is that you have all been lying to me…you, Mama, and…" Pilar interrupted, "Sheridan. Luis, you can't blame her. We asked her to keep it quiet. It was months ago, before you two…." Pilar didn't finish. Theresa confessed, "Sheridan asked me to tell you the truth. She hated keeping it from you." Luis thought back to his earlier conversation with Sheridan. Had he been too hard on her? She seemed to be so sorry for lying to him. Luis suggested that they call it a night. Theresa headed to bed and Luis tried to call Sheridan. She wasn't picking up. Pilar saw his face. Luis revealed, "I went to the mansion to find Theresa but found Sheridan instead. She was talking with Julian and I was so angry. I didn't even give her a chance to explain." Pilar suggested, "You should go to her, Luis. Sheridan may appear to be strong, but she is really vulnerable. Julian and Alistair have always been tough on her. And now that you two are together….well, I imagine her family is not too happy with her." Luis thought about this and wondered what he interrupted earlier when he walked in on Julian and Sheridan. He saw the rain pouring outside and hoped that Sheridan had not decided to go on one of her walks. "I'm gonna go and find her, Mama." Luis said.
She still wasn't answering at the cottage and Luis was beginning to get worried. He drove around town looking for her. He had almost given up when he saw someone sitting on the bench at the overlook. The rain had stopped, but she was drenched and shivering. Sheridan was completely unaware of the fact that she was soaked to the bone and the temperature had dropped quite a bit. Luis walked over to her. "Sheridan, what are you doing? Come one, we need to get you home. You're freezing." Sheridan sat there looking into the distance. "How did you find out?" she asked. Luis was puzzled, but replied, "Tax time." Sheridan finally looked up at him. She was so confused. Luis explained, "Theresa's W-2. It listed her employer as Ivy Crane. I was shocked. I had no idea." Sheridan realized that Luis hadn't heard her conversation with Julian. She was safe for now. She explained, "I didn't know it was a secret until the night that I was attacked by that mugger. When we were back at your place talking about money and relationships, I figured it out. I kept quiet at first because I didn't know why Theresa hadn't told you. Then, later, I just continued keeping it a secret. I don't know why. I hated lying to you." Luis was touched by her honesty. "Sheridan, it's ok. Mama and Theresa explained it to me. I'm sorry I was so cold with you earlier. I was just shocked to find out. Now come on, we need to get you home and out of those wet clothes."
Chapter 2:
Luis put her to bed and sat with her until she fell asleep. He made a bed on the couch. There was something wrong with Sheridan, but he didn’t know what. It was that same feeling he had before…like something was haunting her. He couldn’t leave her like this. Luis tossed and turned trying to get comfortable. Suddenly he heard noise coming from Sheridan’s room. Sheridan was dreaming about Luis. She was in a garden maze, trying to find her way out. She could hear Luis calling for her but at every turn she saw something disturbing. Pilar looked at her, “Sheridan, how could you do this?” Then Ethan, “It was you. I can’t believe it was you.” Julian laughing, “Sister…I warned you not to meddle. Now father will be very angry.” Then she heard Alistair’s voice telling her, “You’ve been very bad. You’ve brought shame to this family.” Suddenly, Alistair’s voice turned into another voice. It was Luis saying, “Lies, lies…how could I ever love you…how could anyone ever love you?” Sheridan sat up and screamed, “LUIS!” Just then Luis rushed to hold her, “It’s ok. I’m here. It’s ok.” Sheridan was in tears.
Luis held Sheridan until she fell asleep. Sheridan awoke the next morning wrapped in warmth. She felt secure. Luis was still holding her and she could feel his breath on the back of her neck. She turned to face him. She watched him as he slept. Luis finally woke up to Sheridan’s beautiful blue eyes staring straight at him. She was smiling. She must be alright now, Luis thought. “Morning” he said. “Hi” Sheridan replied quietly. “You ok now?” he asked. “Yeah. Thanks for last night.” She answered. “Bad dream?” he asked. Sheridan nodded, “Yeah, but it’s ok now. You’re here.” It was killing Luis to see Sheridan in pain and not know the cause. He didn’t want to upset her, but these nightmares had to stop. He suggested, “You might feel better if you talked about it. If not with me, then with someone else.” Sheridan wanted to tell him, but where to start? “There’s not much to tell, Luis. I have had these terrible dreams for years and there’s nothing anyone can do about them. The doctors told me that my nightmares stem from guilt I feel over the death of my mother.” Luis asked, “Your mother? Why would you feel guilty about her death?” Sheridan confessed, “Because her death was a result of complications from my birth.” Luis felt terrible for Sheridan. “Well, maybe there’s more to it. What do you see when you have these nightmares? Last night you were calling out for me. Were you dreaming about me?”
Sheridan reminded Luis that he was late for work and convinced him that they would talk later. She had to pull herself together and she needed to get some answers. The telephone rang in Julian’s study. “Julian Crane” he answered. “We need to talk” the voice on the other end demanded. “What about?” Julian requested. “Just meet me at the cemetery in half an hour” the caller ordered. “Very cloak and dagger…what’s all this about?” Julian inquired. “Just be there…and don’t tell anyone where you’re going.” Julian grabbed his coat and headed out the door. What was this all about, he wondered? Did this person have the goods on him? Had they figured out his latest indiscretion? Julian wasn’t nervous, rather he was intrigued. He loved the mystery of it all. He saw her standing by their mother’s grave. “Sheridan, what is all this about? Why couldn’t we talk at home?” Julian said. Sheridan didn’t answer his question. It was obvious. She wanted to talk with Julian without the possibility of being interrupted or overheard by anyone else in the family. Sheridan looked straight at him and said, “Tell me about mother. What really happened to her and what happened that night?” Julian was growing uncomfortable. Sheridan had that determined look in her eye. She was not giving up, even though he had little information for her. “Sheridan, mother never fully recovered from your birth. You came along late in her life and it was too much strain on her. As for that night, we’ve already told you…it was all a nightmare.” Sheridan walked over to him and grabbed his hand, “Julian, I know that somewhere deep inside of you, there is a decent person. I am your sister, for god’s sake, can’t you be honest with me? Can’t you see how this has haunted me? Why do you remain so loyal to a man who doesn’t give a damn about his children? You must remember mother better than I do? Didn’t you love her? Wouldn’t she want you to be honest with me?” Julian was affected by her words. Sheridan’s eyes were piercing his soul. He promised his mother that he would always watch over Sheridan and he had failed her. Sheridan held his hand, searching for the big brother she hoped was somewhere inside.
Julian began, “There’s not much I know, Sheridan, but I do know this. You don’t want to start looking into the past. Father knows everything that goes on and he will make your life a living hell.” Sheridan knew Julian wanted to tell her more, but he was afraid. “Julian, I am not afraid of Father. This uncertainty is killing me. I can’t stand the thought that I may have…” “Killed someone?” Julian offered. Sheridan nodded. “No, Sheridan. You didn’t kill anyone. I can tell you that.” Sheridan looked up at him. A weight had been lifted. “How can I believe you? What if you’re lying to me, Julian?” Julian smiled a small smile that told Sheridan that he was being honest. “No, Sheridan. You didn’t do anything wrong, but please heed my warning…drop it. Don’t open a box that you wish you never had. Remember that sometimes ignorance is bliss, dear sister.” Sheridan knew there was much more to the story…maybe even the truth about Martin Fitzgerald. She wished she could take Julian’s advice and go on with her life, but she had to know…for Luis. She loved him and wanted so much to repay all the kindness he had shown her. To find the truth about his father would be such a relief for him. Julian read this from her face. “You love him, don’t you?” he asked. “Yes, Julian. I do…very much. So much, in fact that I would do anything for him…take any risk.” Sheridan replied. She continued, “I have to ask. If I did start looking into the past, what would I find about you?” Julian looked down with a guilty face. Then he lifted his head proudly and said, “You may not understand this, but everything I have done…I have done for this family, Sheridan. I am not ashamed.” Sheridan and Julian stood there for some time. She looked a her watch and said, “I appreciate your honesty, Julian, but I wish you realized how misguided you are. You shouldn’t let Father be such an influence. You deserve better. I wish that you could find real love Julian...real happiness.” Julian was touched but tried to remain stoic. “Just know that you are innocent, Sheridan. And try to enjoy what little happiness you have found. Now get out of here and find that blue collared Neanderthal you claim to love.” Sheridan smiled and gave him a hug. She whispered, “I know you are really a good person deep down. I love you.”
Chapter 3: Confessions
Sheridan felt a sense of relief from her conversation with Julian. She had not killed anyone; she was sure she could trust Julian on this point. However, she knew that something sinister had happened all those years ago. If it had anything to do with Martin Fitzgerald, Sheridan would discover the truth. She owed it to Luis. Sheridan looked again at her watch. Where was Luis? They were supposed to meet at the Youth Center for lunch. Sheridan sat down on a chair in his office. She reached into her purse and pulled out the mail she had stuffed in there earlier. A letter from Hettie! It had been ages since she heard from her. Just as she was about to open the letter, Luis came up behind her. “Hey, sweetie! Sorry I’m late.” Usually, Luis never kept her waiting. In fact, it was almost always the opposite. “Busy day?” Sheridan asked. “Yeah. First day back. Playing catch up.” Luis confessed. Sheridan felt so guilty because his trip to Paris was the reason he was behind on his work. He realized this and added, “Hey, it was well worth it though. How many people get to spend two weeks in France with the woman they love? All the guys at the station are jealous. Plus, you made me look like a hero.” Sheridan smiled, knowing that he was telling her this to make her feel better. She replied, “Well, if you don’t have time for lunch, I totally understand, Luis.” Luis touched her cheek and answered, “No way, Crane. You’re not getting out of our date that easily. I know you’ve got some hot love letter you want to read, but it will have to wait until after our lunch.” Sheridan explained, “It’s just a letter from an old friend…a girlfriend.” Luis was happy to know that.
Luis and Sheridan went by The Harbor Market to pick up some sandwiches and salads. They headed to Lighthouse Park and set up the blanket under the old Oak Tree. Luis poured a glass of lemonade for Sheridan and handed it to her. He noticed that she seemed very relaxed and happy. Whatever had been troubling her the night before had passed. He asked, “How does it feel to be back in Harmony?” Sheridan replied, “It feels wonderful. I had breakfast with Ethan this morning and talked with your Mom. It’s really nice to see everyone. And I even had a decent conversation with Julian.” Luis almost choked on his sandwich, “Julian? What did you two talk about?” Sheridan offered, “The past, the present, and even the future a bit. We’re by no means the best of friends now, but we have come to an understanding…and he knows how I feel about you.” Luis smiled and put his arms around her waist, “And what exactly did you tell Julian about us?” Sheridan looked straight at him and said, “Just that I love you very much and that if he tries to interfere, I will make his life a living hell.” Sheridan saw the happiness and pride spread across his face. She continued, “I have no real proof that Julian or Father was behind the misunderstanding at the wharf, but I put Julian on notice that we will get to the bottom of it.” Luis wasn’t quite satisfied, “Misunderstanding? Sheridan…someone pretended to be me. Do you know how strange that feels?” Sheridan answered, “I’m the one who had to sit and listen to you, or not really you, say some terrible things about me. Do you have any idea of how much it hurts to have someone you care about say they’re using you?” Luis had a pretty good idea. After all, Sheridan claimed to be using him. Sheridan remembered, “Oh yeah. I guess you do know what that’s like. I am so sorry for the things I said. I had no right to slap you. I just didn’t want you to know how much you had hurt me.” Luis didn’t want to go there again, “Let’s just forget about it. I don’t like to think about that time.”
Sheridan continued to relay the details of her meeting with Julian, “Luis, there’s more you need to know about my talk with Julian. He told me some things about my past. I still have a lot of questions, and I’m hoping that together we can find the answers.” Sheridan watched as Luis took all this in and she added, “Luis, I asked Julian about your father. Julian claims that he and Father had nothing to do with Martin’s disappearance, but my gut tells me they did. And I think that I may know something about it. I believe that the nightmares I’ve always had may be the key to your Father’s disappearance.” There, she had gotten it all out and the world had not ended. Luis was still there next to her and she was okay. Luis looked at the ground and remained silent while he processed all this information. He finally spoke up, “That’s what your dreams are about? My father?” Sheridan explained, “Well, I don’t know for certain, but they’re pretty disturbing. And as I told you before, they started around the time Martin disappeared. I hope you know that I wanted to be honest with you from the start, but I didn’t really know how to talk about this with you. I have no proof of anything and even my nightmares are so vague. I didn’t even realize there may be a connection between my nightmares and your father’s disappearance until a few months ago…right before we went to Santa Fe.” It was all starting to make sense to Luis now. He asked, “And that’s the reason you went to Santa Fe? To give yourself some piece of mind?” Sheridan held his hand and answered, “Yes and no. I needed to know my involvement in your father’s disappearance. I was so young at the time. I don’t remember ever knowing him. I wasn’t lying to you when I told you I wanted to find answers for Pilar. That’s the truth. I love your mother, and she deserves to know what really happened. And so do you. I can’t stand seeing you in pain, Luis. I want you to know what happened, even if that means bringing down my family.”
Their plans for a relaxing picnic had turned into a heavy discussion. Without even realizing it, an hour and a half had passed. Luis needed to get back to work. Luis glanced at this watch. Sheridan asked, “I know you need to go. Are we ok? Please tell me that you aren’t angry. Please tell me you don’t hate me.” Luis was overwhelmed by all this new information, but he was so relieved that Sheridan finally trusted him enough to tell him the truth. He held her in his arms, “Of course I don’t hate you. I could never hate you Sheridan. Don’t you know that by now? I’m just thinking about it all. I knew that you were hiding something from me, but it never occurred to me that it might have something to do with my father. I guess I’m just desperate to find out the truth, and yet I’m scared as to where this might lead.” Sheridan knew that Luis was afraid that if they proved what he suspected all along, that the Cranes were responsible for Martin’s disappearance, that it might destroy their relationship. He kissed her goodbye and said, “We’ll talk about this more tonight, Sher. We’re going to find out what really happened. We can solve this together.” Sheridan was glad that he said ‘together’.
Chapter 4: Old Friends
Sheridan walked back to the cottage, thinking about all that had happened over the past few weeks. Luis came all the way to Paris to save her. Together, they brought down one of the biggest drug rings in Europe. They stayed in Paris for an extra week while the French authorities wrapped things up. The extra time in Paris had been wonderful. She showed him the sights. They went for long romantic walks along the Seine. Sheridan took him to all her favorite restaurants. He met some of her friends. It had been a very special time for them. And now they were back in Harmony and ready to build a life together. She was glad they had no secrets between them. She felt tremendous relief. She knew Luis would stand by her no matter what. Sheridan felt like the luckiest woman in the world to have such a wonderful, devoted, and sexy man like Luis. She opened the door to her cottage and went to the kitchen to make some tea and start dinner. A smile came to her face when she remembered the letter from Hettie. Hettie Breyer…the little auburn-haired girl with a face full of freckles that had been such a large part of her life. She and Hettie had been best friends as children, but she hadn’t seen her since they were both very young. They had never lost touch, though, and wrote to each other often. Hettie’s family was originally from Harmony. Her mother had died after a long battle with cancer, and she and her father moved back to Harmony so that her father could take a position as a gardener at the Crane Estate. They lived at the cottage that was now Sheridan’s home. Sheridan was thrilled to have another young girl to play with, and they had so much in common. They both loved horses and dancing and music. It was instant friendship. While Mr. Breyer worked on the estate, Hettie spent most of her day with Sheridan and Pilar. Sheridan remembered all the wonderful times they had shared. Like the time that Alistair brought back a box of expensive chocolate truffles from France for his daughter. He told her she could have one piece and give one to her friend. Sheridan was supposed to put the rest away. Instead, Sheridan and Hettie ate the entire box and made themselves quite ill. Pilar witnessed their chocolate covered mouths and asked if the girls had eaten the chocolates. They tried to deny it, but it was obvious. All Pilar could do was laugh. Sheridan was on a high for a week from all the caffeine and sugar. Mr. Breyer called her ‘Shakes’. Hettie was no better. She couldn’t look at another piece of candy for a month.
Sheridan was so envious of Hettie’s relationship with her father. Mr. Breyer, or ‘Pops’ as Hettie called him, would drop anything to be with his daughter. He spent most of his free time playing with the girls. He made up complex stories and funny nicknames. One day, he set up an elaborate tea party for them. Hettie was ‘Miss Dora’ and Sheridan was ‘Miss Flora’. He called them ‘the ladies from Bora Bora’. Little Ethan even got in on the action sometimes. Hettie would put socks on his ears and call him ‘Rex, the dog’. Ethan would follow them around for hours, barking and panting. The best was when Uncle Mick came by the cottage to pick up Mr. Breyer to go fishing. He was a wonderful man who smelled of wintergreen. Mick always had a special greeting for the girls. He put his hands over their ears, and while they held onto his wrists, he would lift them into the air, saying “Cheers Big Ears!” The girls thought this was hilarious. While the two men went fishing, Pilar would take the girls up to the stables to go riding. Sheridan and Hettie loved to ride, but always begged to go on the fishing trip. Mick promised that one day soon they would take them with them to the island of Bora Bora. Hettie had been before and talked about the wonder of being at the island. And finally that day came. It was a beautiful spring morning. Sheridan had spent the night with Hettie the night before. Mick loaded the girls into the truck and said to Sheridan, “Well, Miss Flora…this is your first fishing trip. Are you excited?” Sheridan was excited. Two little girls, both in denim overalls and pigtails, sat in the boat with huge grins as they made their way to the island. But the trip had been cut short. There were other people on the island that day, and Mick and Mr. Breyer insisted they go back home. Sheridan sensed there was more going on, but she didn’t question it. Not long after that day, Hettie went to stay with her grandmother in South Carolina.
Sheridan continued to remember those childhood days with Hettie. One summer day, Sheridan and Hettie climbed to the top of the poplar tree on the Crane Estate. Hettie screamed, “Oh no! It’s The Cat.” Sheridan knew that Hettie claimed to be tormented by a young boy she simply called ‘The Cat’. He carried a sports bag with him all the time. Thus, Hettie called the boy Felix the Cat and sang the song to annoy him.
Felix the cat, the wonderful, wonderful cat
Whenever he gets in a fix, he reaches into his bag of tricks
Hettie was determined to avoid her adversary, but he saw the girls in the tree and shouted, “Hey Pippy,” mocking Hettie’s trademark pigtails. “Why are you hiding from me? You’re not scared, are you?” Hettie motioned to Sheridan to be quiet, but Sheridan lost her footing and began to fall. The boy caught her and held her for a few moments. Hettie climbed down the tree as fast as she could. When she reached the bottom, she saw him holding Sheridan and said wryly, “Well, Felix, looks like you can catch after all. Maybe you will be a baseball player.” The boy and Sheridan were silent. Their eyes were glued to each other.
He placed Sheridan on the ground and smiled, “Who’s your friend, Pip?” Hettie replied, “My name’s not Pip, and this is my very dear friend, Flora.” Sheridan and Hettie smiled at each other. “Now if you don’t mind, we have some important matters to attend to.” And with that, Hettie turned and walked away. Sheridan followed but turned around to take one last look at the boy who had saved her. Sheridan sat down on the sofa and opened the letter from Hettie.
Dear Flora Belle,
Sorry it’s been so long since I’ve written to you. I was thrilled to get your letter finally. As you can see from the return address, I have moved to Savannah, Georgia (not too far from Gran in SC). It took a little while for your letter to reach me. I can’t believe you’ve moved back to Harmony after all your world traveling. I miss you terribly and can’t wait to see you. I have some news. Better sit down, Shakes. I finally did it. I met a wonderful man, named Ed, and he has asked me to marry him. Of course I said yes. After all, he is the only man I have ever met who makes me laugh as hard as you do. And he keeps me in line, or at least he tries his best. He’s an attorney so he loves to argue (a real selling point with me). You have to be at the wedding and bring The Cat with you. I read your last letter and was shocked to hear you met up with him again. And crashing into his car? That’s priceless. Hope he isn’t pulling your pigtails. As I remember, Felix liked catching you better. I’ll call you soon.
Love Always,
Dora Belle (soon to be Mrs. Breyer-Meyer – isn’t that awful?)
P.S. Thanks for the picture of you and Rex. He’s certainly not a dog these days. Does he get along with The Cat? Am enclosing a picture of me and Ed. Mark your calendar for the big day and don’t forget to bring The Cat. Sheridan was in a state of shock.
A knock at the door brought Sheridan back into the present. She ran to get the door. It was Luis. “Hey, baby. What’s wrong? You’re so flushed,” he said. Sheridan looked at Luis, examining his face to see if he could be the boy. She explained, “Just reading that letter from my friend. Come in. Sit down.” Sheridan continued looking at Luis. He asked, “What is it? Why are you looking at me like that?” Sheridan replied, “Did you ever watch that cartoon ‘Felix The Cat’?” Luis was confused, “Yeah. Why?” He was starting to wonder how Sheridan might know the significance of that name. Sheridan showed him the picture she had just received and said, “My best friend, Hettie. She moved away many years ago.” Luis was completely shocked. He stated, “Hettie Breyer…Pippy?” Sheridan grinned, “Yes. That’s right.” Luis glanced at the letter and saw the greeting, ‘Dear Flora Belle’. Luis was shocked and asked, “Are you…I mean…were you?” Sheridan answered, “Flora.” Luis smiled, “I caught you that day.” Sheridan whispered, “You did.” Luis continued, “That was the first time I ever remember being interested in girls. You fell straight into my arms and took my breath away.” Sheridan blushed, “I never forgot you.”
Sheridan and Luis talked about Hettie while they ate dinner. Sheridan told him all about their adventures and how they got those silly nicknames that stuck with them through the years. Luis offered, “Dora and Flora. Leave it up to Tommy Breyer to come up with those. I’m sure it was Uncle Tommy who encouraged Hettie to call me Felix the Cat. He loved to come up with nicknames. He used to call my dad ‘Mick’ because he was Irish.” Sheridan froze and Luis noticed her pale face. He asked, “What’s wrong? Did I say something that upset you?” Sheridan turned to Luis and answered, “Uncle Mick? That was your dad?” Instantly, Luis knew that Sheridan had a connection to his father. She explained how Martin used to pick her up by the ears and how he always smelled of wintergreen. Tears were filling up Luis’s eyes. The stories reminded him of the man he loved. He was so glad that Sheridan knew his father. He was so glad that they could share their memories of him.
Chapter 5: Records
Luis looked at Sheridan as she cleared the table. After what happened in Paris, he thought they couldn’t get any closer. But they had grown closer. To think, Sheridan was the one from all those years ago. The first girl who convinced him that true love might just be possible. He had known all along that what he felt with Beth was not even close to what he felt when he caught Sheridan that day. Sheridan could hardly look at him without beaming. She asked, “So what was the deal with pulling Hettie’s pigtails? That really made her mad.” Luis explained, “I know. It was Antonio. The first time I did it as a dare. He told me he would give me a dollar. Then, it just bothered her so much. We all thought it was funny.” Sheridan added, “I can’t believe it was you. Does anyone still call you Felix?” Luis replied, “No. No one ever did except Hettie, and when she moved away that was the end of it. Not long after she left, Mr. Breyer moved away, and things were different.” Sheridan remembered. She kissed him gently. Luis kissed her back. Neither of them had intended for things to go any further. When they were reunited in Paris, they agreed to take things very slowly, but tonight seemed like the right time.
Luis kept kissing her face, moving from her forehead to her cheeks, then down her neck. He returned to her lips and kissed her intensely. She grabbed his hand and led him to the bedroom. Luis was trembling. Sheridan’s eyes were so full of desire. “Are you sure?” he asked. She nodded as she took of her shirt. Luis wanted to be with her so much. She walked over and began unbuttoning his shirt. She kissed his bare chest. Luis was no longer trembling. He picked her up and took her to the bed. They continued undressing each other until they were both completely naked. Luis began making love to her, whispering into her ear, “I love you so much, Sheridan.” Sheridan moaned, “I love you too.” They made love all night long and fell asleep in each other’s arms. Sheridan awoke with a chill. They were entwined in each other’s arms, but they had knocked the covers to the floor. Luis awoke, “Are you cold?” he asked. He pulled the covers up over them and they began kissing again. “You’re gonna be the death of me Sheridan. Do you know that? What are you doing? Going for some kind of record?” Sheridan giggled, “OK. Get some sleep.” Luis grabbed her, “Hey, I didn’t say I wasn’t enjoying it. Come here.” They kept kissing and made love one more time.
For days after that night, Sheridan and Luis barely left each other’s side. They could hardly look at each other without blushing. Sheridan was making dinner when Luis returned from work. He let himself in with the key she gave him. He snuck up on her in the kitchen and watched her as she rinsed the vegetables. She was singing to the music coming from the CD player. Luis came up behind her and kissed her neck. She teased, “Felix, you’d better get out of here. Luis will be back any minute.” Luis laughed, “What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him.” Sheridan turned around and continued kissing him. Things were getting steamy in the kitchen. Sheridan stopped, “We have to eat, Luis, or we’re going to waste away into nothingness.” Luis helped to set the table as Sheridan finished making dinner. They sat down at the table and talked about their day. Luis told her his good news. The mayor was going to give him a special commendation for saving one of Harmony’s most respected residents. And Luis had made detective. It was all coming together. Sheridan toasted Luis, which really embarrassed him. He asked her about her day and she explained that she had talked to Hettie. Luis asked, “Did you tell her about us? Was she shocked?” Sheridan answered, “I told her. And no, she wasn’t shocked. She said she knew all along that we would end up together. Isn’t that crazy?” Luis replied, “If only she had let us in on it. Think how much time we would have saved.” Sheridan laughed, “She wants us both at the wedding next month. Can you get the weekend off to take me to Savannah?” Luis said, “Of course. I’m not letting you go to any wedding alone. There will be all those single guys around. And anyway, I happen to love weddings.” Sheridan grinned, thinking that one day soon they might be taking a trip down the isle. Luis continued, “All that free grub and liquor.” She kicked him under the table. Luis concluded, “And the dancing…” Sheridan thought about dancing with Luis and smiled.
Sheridan and Luis had been searching through town records trying to find some connection to the events of that night. Maybe it had all be a terrible dream. Sheridan paused when she came upon one newspaper clipping. Her face went pale. Luis asked, “What is it? Do you know those men?” Sheridan was holding a picture of a group of men standing outside of Crane Industries. The headline read, ‘Crane Industries files for tax shelter’. Sheridan recognized her father, but she also noticed another man standing in the background. He looked like a weasel. The paper identified him as Nelson Lowry. The name meant nothing to her. She explained to Luis that this man looked familiar, but she didn’t know why. Maybe he had worked for her father. Luis took down the name and promised to run a background check on him. Something about this man made Sheridan shiver.
Chapter 6: Southern Belles
Sheridan and Luis parked the car outside the Inn. Savannah was a beautiful town, located right on a river. The Inn where they were staying was lovely. They made their way up to the room. The room was yellow and lavender, very feminine, with lots of floral fabrics and eyelet. Hettie had arranged everything for them. There was a basket of fruit on the coffee table. Sheridan read the card.
Dear Flora Belle and Felix,
Hope your trip wasn’t too long. Ed and I will pick you up this evening for dinner and a walk through town. See you then. Love, H.
P.S. Put some chocs in the basket for you, Shakes.
Sheridan opened the door to the balcony. Everything smelled of lilac and roses. She and Luis unpacked and changed for dinner. Sheridan was getting so excited to see her old friend. Luis was wearing navy pants and a hunter green top. Sheridan was wearing a periwinkle colored twinset with black capri pants. Luis looked at her and said, “You look amazing.” She smiled, “Thank you. You look pretty damn good yourself. Earrings!” she remembered and went back into the bathroom to get them. There was a knock at the door and Luis opened it. There she was. It was Hettie Breyer, looking much more sophisticated. She still had those freckles and that auburn hair, but she had grown into quite a beauty, without the pigtails. And next to her was a short, stocky fellow, with a receding hairline and wire framed glasses. Hettie gave Luis a hug, “Well if it isn’t The Cat. I can’t believe you’re here.” Sheridan came to the door and ran over to Hettie. They embraced for several minutes and kept giggling and touching each other’s faces. Luis and Ed stood there watching. Hettie turned to the men, “I want you both to meet Ed Meyer, my fiancee. Ed, this is Sheridan Crane and Luis Lopez Fitzgerald.” Ed shook both their hands, “It’s so nice to meet you. Hettie has told me so much about you.” Luis said, “I bet she has. So what does she call you?” Ed laughed, knowing Luis was referring to Hettie’s penchant for nicknames, “Depends on her mood. When we first met, she used to call me Oscar all the time…like I hadn’t heard that one a million times as a kid. She still calls me that when she wants to irritate me.” Hettie interrupted, “Oh don’t lie about me, Mr. Meyer. Let’s get going. We want to show you our beautiful city.”
Luis and Ed talked as Hettie and Sheridan caught up on things. Ed was a tax attorney, but he was fascinated with criminal law. Luis told him that he had thought about law school, but he was glad with his choice to become a police officer. Ed agreed, “Pushing paper. That’s all I feel like I do sometimes. Occasionally, I get to get in on something exciting when some the Feds need some dirt on a bad guy.” Hettie looked at Sheridan and made a fake yawning face, “Boring. Now I want to hear all about France and Harmony and Ethan and your family. How is Pilar? I miss her so much.” Sheridan explained the whole France escapade, highlighting Luis’s bravery. Ed and Hettie were enthralled. Then she relayed the latest events from Harmony. Hettie couldn’t believe that Ethan was getting married. “Married? He’s just a baby.” She exclaimed. In Hettie’s mind, Ethan was still a child, following the girls around with socks on his ears. Hettie continued, “So…when are you two going to tie the knot?” Leave it to Hettie to ask such a question. Ed kicked her under the table as Luis and Sheridan blushed. Hettie turned to Ed, “What? It’s obvious they love each other. Why wait?” Ed tried to change the subject.
After dinner, the four of them walked around town. Sheridan and Luis held hands as they watched Ed and Hettie bicker about where to go next. Finally, they made their way back to the Inn and said goodnight. Hettie hugged Sheridan and said, “Tomorrow, Pops is coming. He can’t wait to see you. I didn’t tell him you were bringing Felix. Won’t he be in for a surprise?” Sheridan and Luis couldn’t wait to see Mr. Breyer. Luis thought seeing him might bring back all the memories of his father. Sheridan and Luis walked up to their room and cuddled in bed until they fell asleep.
Chapter 7: Pop And The Weasel
Ed’s parents were hosting a tea for the wedding couple. Sheridan put on a beautiful sleeveless pale pink silk shantung dress that hit her right above the knee. Luis was wearing flax colored linen pants, a white shirt, a navy jacket and the yellow Hermes tie that Sheridan bought him in Paris. He looked hot. At the Meyer house, the back garden was full of other wedding guests enjoying the cakes and sandwiches and listening to the sounds of the jazz quartet. Luis and Sheridan walked over to Ed and Hettie. “Quick, Ed. Find Pops. They’re here.” Hettie ran over to Sheridan and hugged her. “Pops can’t wait to see you.” Ed brought Tommy Breyer over to Luis and Sheridan. Hettie said, “See Pops. I told you she would be here. And just look who she brought.” Mr. Breyer hugged Sheridan and stood back, examining Luis. His face went pale. Luis said, “Hello Mr. Breyer. It’s me. Luis Lopez-Fitzlgerald. Martin’s son.” Mr. Breyer was stunned. He finally replied, “I know who you are. I would recognize you anywhere. Give me hug, son. And what’s this Mr. Breyer nonsense? It’s Uncle Tommy.” Luis was warmed by their exchange. Tommy was the closest thing Luis had to a father. They all talked about the old times.
At the end of the evening, Luis and Tommy sat alone at the table, while Sheridan and Hettie hit the dance floor. Tommy asked, “How is your mother?” Luis explained that she was well. She still worked at the Crane Mansion and believed that Martin might one day return. Tommy looked down at the ground, “Luis, you have to know that your father loved you all very much. Whatever happened, he left because he had to. He would never have left otherwise.” Luis felt like Tommy knew more. He asked, “Uncle Tommy, do you know why he left? Please. You have to tell me. Sheridan and I have been investigating this for a while. She thinks that she may know something about my father’s disappearance, but so far we’ve come up empty.” Tommy looked over at Sheridan and Hettie on the dance floor. They were laughing and giggling as Ed took their picture. Tommy explained, “Sheridan is a very special girl, Luis. She was so beautiful as a child, just like a little angel. She really helped Hettie come to terms with the death of her mother. Martin and I were both very fond of Sheridan and would do anything to protect her.” Luis knew all about Sheridan’s better qualities. Tommy didn’t have to tell him how wonderful she was. Where was this leading, he wondered.
“Your father was concerned about Sheridan growing up in that house. He always made certain that Pilar watched over her. Martin was very protective. He lost his sister growing up and the pain never left him.” Luis listened and remembered hearing about his Aunt Colleen, who had died as a young girl in a drowning accident. Tommy continued, “Martin never believed that Colleen’s death was an accident. She was an excellent swimmer and would never have been out on the lake alone. When they found her body, Martin suspected that someone had lured her there and killed her. He had one person in mind, but could never prove it. Years later, Martin and I saw this man on the island meeting with an associate of Alistair Crane. Martin believed this man was connected to the Cranes and went to the mansion to talk to Alistair. All I know is that something happened at the mansion that night, something that had to do with that man and Sheridan. Martin called me and told me he had to go into hiding.
Luis was stunned. More pieces to the puzzle but still no clear picture. Ed, Hettie, and Sheridan came back to the table. Hettie said, “Well, tomorrow’s the big day. We’d better get going.” Sheridan and Luis went back to the Inn. Sheridan asked Luis what was wrong, and Luis explained that Tommy had been telling him about his father. He didn’t want to go into all the details now. They needed to get some sleep for Hettie and Ed’s big day. The next morning Sheridan went to help Hettie get ready for the wedding. Sheridan’s bridesmaid dress was a lovely pale yellow silk column, with spaghetti straps and an open back. Hettie was wearing a traditional off the shoulder wedding gown with a headband veil and a long train. She and Sheridan talked about Ed and Luis. Hettie said, “I hope I didn’t embarrass you the other night with my wedding talk.” Sheridan replied, “No, not at all. I hope that someday Luis will ask me to be his wife, but we’ve got a lot of things to get straight before then.” Hettie was puzzled, “What do you mean?” Sheridan explained that Martin’s disappearance and her family’s involvement was still a looming question. She and Luis had to get some answers before making a lifelong commitment to each other. Hettie suggested that they talk some more with her father and maybe even with her grandmother, as she used to know the Cranes when she lived in Harmony.
The wedding was beautiful. Tommy made a wonderful toast at the reception. Luis and Sheridan danced for hours. Tommy pulled Luis aside at the end of the festivities. “Luis, I know you and Sheridan are planning to go home tomorrow, but stay a few extra days. I made some calls last night after out talk and there is someone who wants to see you.” Luis was curious. Surely, it couldn’t be his father. But who was it and what did they know? Hettie was getting ready to throw the bouquet. Sheridan stood at the back of the crowd, but Hettie aimed it right at her and she caught it. Sheridan was so embarrassed. Ed also aimed the garter at Luis. Luis and Sheridan were ordered to the dance floor. As they danced, Sheridan noticed that Luis was a million miles away. She tried not to take it personally. After the wedding, Luis and Sheridan went back to the room. Sheridan asked, “I hope you weren’t too embarrassed by Hettie’s remarks the other night.” Luis replied, “Hettie’s remarks?” Sheridan answered, “Yeah. I didn’t think anything of it, but then, tonight when I caught the bouquet and we danced, you seemed uncomfortable.” Luis realized that he had been neglecting Sheridan.
Luis held her hand and sat her down on the bed, “Sheridan, it’s not you. More than anything, I want you to be my wife someday. It’s just some things Tommy Breyer has been telling me about my father.” Luis explained in detail, even the part about the strange man Martin thought was stalking Sheridan. When he got to the part about someone wanting to meet with him tomorrow, Sheridan asked, “Do you think it’s your father?” Luis replied, “I know it can’t be, but I have this strange feeling like maybe it is.” He smiled at the thought that he might actually see Martin again. Sheridan said that she hoped it would be Martin. Luis kissed her gently and lay down next to her on the bed. Luis imagined what it would be like on their wedding day. He hoped that they would find his father. The sooner they got some answers, the sooner he could begin his life with Sheridan.
The next morning at breakfast, the innkeeper gave Luis a note. He and Sheridan needed to be at the Riverboat Pavillion by 10 AM to meet this mystery person. Sheridan and Luis got ready in the room. “Nervous?” Sheridan asked. Luis nodded. Sheridan added, “Do you want me there? Or would you rather do this alone?” Luis replied, “You’re coming with me. After all, the note was addressed to both of us.” He smiled and held her hand. They were in this together. Luis and Sheridan walked into the Pavillion. Luis said, “I’m going to look around. Why don’t you stay here.” Luis walked down the stairs to the lower level. He saw the man in front of him and knew him instantly. There was complete silence as they stared at each other, both with tears in their eyes. “Papa?” Luis said. Martin nodded, “Yes, Luis. It’s me.” They hugged each other tightly for several minutes. “Where’s Sheridan?” Martin asked. Luis replied, “She’s upstairs.” Luis and Martin walked up the stairs. Sheridan had her back to them. As soon as she turned around, Martin smiled. He walked over and placed his hands on her ears, as though he were going to lift her into the air. “Flora” he said. Sheridan had tears in her eyes. She hugged him, kissed his cheek, and whispered “Uncle Mick”.
Martin asked Sheridan and Luis to come with him to his boat. Luis helped Sheridan onto the deck. Martin untied the rope and they set off. Luis let his father get everything settled on board. Martin kept looking at the both of them. “Son, I can’t believe it. You’ve grown into a man. I am so proud of you.” Martin smiled at Sheridan, “And my little Flora. Look at you. You’re a beautiful woman.” Finally Luis couldn’t take it any longer. He asked, “Papa, what’s this all about? How did you find us? Did Tommy tell you we were here?” Martin nodded. “Yeah. I check in with Tommy every now and then. He helps me out and keeps me up to date. I spend most of my time on this boat.” Luis wondered aloud, “Why? What’s kept you away, Papa? Why did you leave us?” Martin explained, “I had to leave, Luis. I did something…I made a mistake. At the time, I thought it was the right thing to do. Even now, I’m not so sure.” Martin told them the whole story, “Years ago when my sister died, a young man came to her funeral. No one in our family knew him. He had this slight smile on his face throughout the entire service. There was something about him that unnerved me. I always wondered if he had something to do with Colleen’s death. I never saw him again until the day that Tommy and I took the girls to the island. He was there meeting with John Purcell, a man who worked for Alistair Crane. I had to know who this man was and how he was connected to Mr. Crane. I felt like I should talk with Alistair about my suspicions. I decided to go to the mansion. As I was getting ready to knock on the door, I looked in the window and saw the man in Alistair’s study. He was hiding behind a door. I looked up and saw Sheridan coming down the stairs. Sheridan went into the study. The man stood there watching her from behind the door. He picked up a letter opener and starting walking up behind Sheridan. I really thought he meant to harm her. He looked just like the boy from Collleen’s funeral.
I kicked open the front door and ran into the house. I wrestled the man to the floor. He fell on the letter opener. There was blood everywhere. Sheridan ran out of the room screaming. Alistair came in and seemed unfazed by the sight of this man lying on his floor in a pool of blood. He almost looked happy. I explained the situation to him and asked if we should contact the police. I told him we needed to find Sheridan. She was probably in shock. Alistair said that the man was a business associate and that there was no way he meant to harm Sheridan. He convinced me that I would lose everything if the police arrested me. He told me that he would take care of everything. I should go home and pretend like nothing ever happened. He would contact me later. I contemplated calling the police, but I couldn’t risk it. Alistair finally called me to meet me at the docks. He said that Sheridan was deeply upset and was going to be sent away. He knew how much I cared for his daughter and convinced me that the scandal would destroy her. He gave me some money and told me that he would provide for Pilar and the rest of the family until things calmed down. I never heard from him again.” Martin breathed deeply.
Sheridan tried to process all of this as Luis held her hand. “All these years, I thought I killed this person. Julian told me it was all a dream.” Martin calmed her, “Julian was just trying to protect you. I don’t know if he ever knew what really happened.” Luis asked, “Who was this man?” Martin answered, “I don’t know. His death was never reported. All I know is that he was a tall, thin man with the initials NWL on his shirt pocket.” Sheridan shivered, “Nelson Lowry.” Luis and Martin both looked at her. She said again, “Nelson Lowry…the man in the photograph. I’m sure of it.” Luis explained to Martin that he and Sheridan had been looking through old records and found Nelson’s picture. Luis argued, “But Sheridan, I checked him out. He moved to Arizona years ago.” Sheridan stood up, “I know it’s him. If I’m right, he never moved anywhere. He is six feet under somewhere, and I bet that my father knows where. This man may have been meeting with my father that evening. Maybe Nelson was blackmailing him and that’s why he was with John Purcell on the island.”
Sheridan and Luis convinced Martin to dock the boat and come back to the Inn with them. Luis called Tommy and told him to bring Ed over. A plan was taking shape. Luis and Sheridan told Ed what they needed and swore him to secrecy. They needed tax records for Nelson Lowry and any other confidential information he could find through his contacts. Ed was quick with the reply. Nelson Lowry had moved to Arizona but had never paid one cent to the IRS since he left Harmony. In fact, there was no record that he had ever earned or spent one dime in Arizona. It was as though he had fallen off the face of the earth. Sheridan called her father on his private line, summoning him to Savannah. Alistair balked at her request, “What would I want to go to Nowheresville, Georgia for? I’m entirely too busy with my business affairs.” Sheridan threatened, “Oh, I think you can make time for this, Father. I met a very dear old friend of yours, Nelson Lowry.” With that, Sheridan hung up the phone. Martin looked at her, “Are you certain you know what you’re doing?” Sheridan looked at him straight in the eye and stated, “We don’t really have any proof that my father did anything wrong other than covering up a murder committed by someone else. It’s time to bluff a little and see what he’s hiding.”
Hettie recruited her Gran’s help in the investigation. Jean Breyer had lived in Harmony many years ago and knew a lot about its residents. According to Jean, Nelson Lowry’s family was peculiar and reclusive. His mother died when he was seven, and his father was very strict and an extreme disciplinarian. Jean knew nothing of John Purcell, except that he worked for the Cranes and seemed very loyal to them. Sheridan and Luis were getting dressed. Alistair would be there any minute. “Nervous?” Luis asked. “Yeah, I am,” she replied. “In one way, I want to know what really happened. In another way, I don’t want to know the extent of my father’s involvement. He’s my father. All I’ve ever wanted from him is unconditional love. I wish that I could respect him, the way that you do your father. The truth is he’s always been distant. I know so little about him.” Sheridan concluded. Luis held her hand, “I’m going to be right there with you, if you want me. We’re going to get through this together.” Sheridan leaned over and kissed him tenderly. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.
Luis got up to answer the door, while Sheridan tried to collect herself for this confrontation. Luis opened the door. It was his first meeting with Alistair Crane. Luis didn’t smile. He gave Alistair a stern look. Then Luis remembered that this man was the father of the woman he loved. Someday, Alistair Crane might actually be his father in law. He extended his hand and said, “Mr. Crane, I’m Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald.” Alistair was stunned by this gesture. Alistair returned the handshake and said, “Luis, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you face to face. I understand from Julian that you have stolen my daughter’s heart.” Luis didn’t like the word ‘stolen’ but was glad that Alistair acknowledged his relationship with Sheridan. Sheridan walked over the two men and said, “Father.” She couldn’t decide if she should hug him. Alistair made the first move, “My beautiful daughter, Sheridan. It’s been too long since I’ve seen you.” He gave her a hug. Luis thought Alistair was laying it on a bit thick. Sheridan pulled away, trying to remain strong. Alistair continued, “Now, what’s this all about, Sheridan? Your phone call has piqued my curiosity.” Alistair looked over at Luis with a half smile and a look that indicated it was time for Luis to excuse himself so he could speak privately with his daughter. Sheridan was aware of this glance and stood in between Luis and Alistair. She said, “Whatever you have to say to me, you can say in front of Luis. We have no secrets.” Alistair grinned, “Really Sheridan? Are you certain you want Luis to stay?” Sheridan felt a wave of confidence surge within her. “I’m certain, Father, unless you’re concerned that what we discuss might upset Luis. You don’t want to see Luis upset.” Luis stood behind Sheridan and smiled. Take that Alistair, he thought.
Sheridan asked her father to take a seat. She offered him a coffee. Alistair looked at his watch and said, “My schedule is very tight. Can we move this along. I’m due in New York this evening.” Sheridan replied, “You may want to cancel your appointment. I don’t know how long this will take.” Alistair demanded, “What’s all this about, Sheridan. You mentioned something about running into an old friend? Lowry, was it?” Sheridan answered, “Yes. That’s right. Nelson Lowry. You remember him, don’t you Father?” Alistair was getting uncomfortable. “Nelson Lowry? Should I know him? I’ve worked with so many various people over the years. Many people claim an acquaintance with me simply because I am a powerful and wealthy man. You, of all people, should know what it’s like being pursued because of who you are.” That was a low blow. Not only was Alistair bringing up painful memories of all the men who had used Sheridan, but he was also reminding her that she was, first and foremost, a Crane.
Luis wanted to jump in before Alistair completely broke Sheridan down. Sheridan’s voice grew stronger, “Cut the crap, Father. You knew the man and you know what happened to him. Nelson had something on you. He threatened you. You tried to get John Purcell to handle him, but Nelson wasn’t going away. Did you know about his past? Did it worry you at all having a dangerous pedophile in the same house with your daughter or were you only thinking about saving your skin?” Alistair was visibly shaken. “Sheridan, how could you think such a thing? You’re my daughter. I love you.” Alistair looked at Luis and continued, “Where is this coming from?” He hesitated and then asked, “You’ve found Martin, haven’t you?” Luis and Sheridan sat there silently, not sure of how they should respond. Alistair explained, “I didn’t really know Lowry. Nelson was working with Purcell on a development project for the island. He came to the house that night to discuss a problem he was having with Purcell. I heard a scream coming from the study. I panicked when I saw what Martin had done. Sheridan was hysterical. Martin claimed that Nelson was some sort of criminal and that he intended to harm my daughter. For all I know, it was a case of mistaken identity. There was nothing to indicate that Nelson was a killer, and I certainly would not have invited him into my home if I thought he were dangerous. I had to think of my family. Sheridan would never have recovered from the scandal and Martin may have faced prison. I did what I thought was best at the time.”
It could have been the truth. The story was word for word the same as Martin’s account. Sheridan and Luis looked at each other. Sheridan asked, “Why didn’t you just go to the police, Father? Martin was trying to protect me. Why send him away and stage this whole cover up?” Alistair replied, “I didn’t witness the murder. For all I knew, Martin had some ulterior motive for killing Lowry. I couldn’t stand the thought that my sweet daughter might be subjected to a battery of questions from the authorities.” Alistair added, “Besides, Martin agreed with me. He had his family to think about. If he were found guilty of murder, think of the tremendous shame his family would have to bear.” Luis finally spoke, “So instead you convinced my father to abandon us, cut off all ties with him, left him hanging in the wind, sent your daughter away without any explanation, and lied to everyone?” Alistair argued, “I told you, at the time it seemed like the right thing to do. I had to think of my daughter. I never knew what really happened in that room that night.” Sheridan stated, “Maybe so, Father, but in the process you ruined one man’s life and you sentenced me to years of unnecessary guilt.” She added, “If I find out that you’re lying about any of this, I will not back down. If Nelson Lowry was blackmailing you and you took advantage of his death to prevent anyone from learning about your unethical business dealings, I will bury you. Do you understand me? The truth will come out. Martin will return to Harmony. Everyone is going to have questions and you’d better be ready to provide some answers.” Alistair explained that he had to be going, “Well, my dear, I only hope that next time we speak, it’s under better circumstances. Luis, I look forward to seeing you again. Please send my regards to your father.” With that, Alistair left. Luis stood there watching him from the window.
Chapter 8: Closing The Books
Sheridan, Luis, and Martin set off for Harmony. What an exhausting couple of days it had been. Sheridan slept on the plane. Martin took the opportunity to talk with Luis. He looked over at Sheridan and said, “She’s really special, son. I am so glad to know that she survived that family.” Luis grinned and looked at the love of his life. “Yeah. She’s an amazing woman. Speaking of amazing women, are you nervous about seeing Mama? How are you going to explain all this to her? Do you want me and Sheridan with you?” Martin answered, “If I know your mother, she will forgive me without a second thought. I’m not worried about that. Pilar and I have a unique love. It will take time, but I know that she will understand why I did what I did. We’ve lost so many years, but we have so many more ahead of us. I only wish that I could have been there to see you grow up. Maybe I can have a second chance with my grandchildren.” Martin grinned. Luis replied, “We’ll see. Sheridan and I both want children. Now that this whole mess is cleared up, we can start our life together.”
Luis called Pilar from the airport and told her that he had a surprise for her. Pilar almost fainted when she saw Martin coming into the house. Sheridan and Luis let them have some privacy as Martin explained everything to Pilar. She was supportive. Together they explained the story to Theresa and Miguel. Most everyone in Harmony had heard the news. With Sheridan’s testimony, Martin was absolved of any crime. Unfortunately saving Martin meant sparing her father. The authorities had no cause to arrest him. They cautioned Alistair that his actions were wrong and warned him that they would be looking into the matter further for a connection between Purcell and Lowry.
The police were not the only ones investigating Alistair Crane. With permission from Sheridan, Ed starting digging into Crane Industries and learned that Alistair was guilty of seven counts of tax evasion. Old man Crane would be paying some large fines and may even have to spend some time in the pokey. Sheridan was relieved to finally know the truth, but she felt sad that Luis had missed out on so many years with his father. As Sheridan and Luis had a picnic in the park one afternoon, Luis asked, “Are you ok? You seem so quiet?” Sheridan answered, “It’s just that I feel responsible for all those years you missed with Martin. I know it was all just a twist of fate, but I still feel awful.” Luis held her hand, “You have to believe that all this happened for a reason. If you think about all the things that could have happened, you will drive yourself crazy. Imagine, if things hadn’t played out his way, we may not be sitting her with each other today. I may not be looking into those big, beautiful, blue eyes that I love so much. You may not be holding my hand, knowing that I will always be here to take care of you. I may not be reaching into my pocket to pull out this ring and ask you to marry me.” That caught Sheridan off guard. Tears were welling up in her eyes as she watched Luis open the box and kneel down. “So, will you marry me, Sheridan Crane?” Sheridan could hardy speak, “Yes, Luis. Of course I will.”
The police were not the only ones investigating Alistair Crane. With permission from Sheridan, Ed starting digging into Crane Industries and learned that Alistair was guilty of seven counts of tax evasion. Old man Crane would be paying some large fines and may even have to spend some time in the pokey. Sheridan was relieved to finally know the truth, but she felt sad that Luis had missed out on so many years with his father. As Sheridan and Luis had a picnic in the park one afternoon, Luis asked, “Are you ok? You seem so quiet?” Sheridan answered, “It’s just that I feel responsible for all those years you missed with Martin. I know it was all just a twist of fate, but I still feel awful.” Luis held her hand, “You have to believe that all this happened for a reason. If you think about all the things that could have happened, you will drive yourself crazy. Imagine, if things hadn’t played out his way, we may not be sitting her with each other today. I may not be looking into those big, beautiful, blue eyes that I love so much. You may not be holding my hand, knowing that I will always be here to take care of you. I may not be reaching into my pocket to pull out this ring and ask you to marry me.” That caught Sheridan off guard. Tears were welling up in her eyes as she watched Luis open the box and kneel down. “So, will you marry me, Sheridan Crane?” Sheridan could hardy speak, “Yes, Luis. Of course I will.”
Everyone in town was so happy for Luis and Sheridan, but no one was happier than Hettie Breyer. She felt as though she were the one who brought this couple together. If she hadn’t insisted on climbing that poplar tree all those years ago, Sheridan might never have fallen into Luis’s arms. As Hettie helped Sheridan get ready for her wedding, she remarked that Sheridan really needed a necklace to finish the look. Pilar had given Sheridan an antique handkerchief that belonged to Martin’s mother. It had the letter ‘F’ embroidered on it for ‘Fitzgerald’. This was perfect for ‘something old’. Sheridan’s pale blue garter belt would suffice as ‘something blue’. Theresa lent Sheridan her lucky penny to put in her shoe for ‘something borrowed’. Now, her oldest friend Hettie was giving her ‘something new’. Sheridan opened the box. Inside was a beautiful heart shaped locket. Inside the locket, were two small pictures…one of Luis as a young boy that Pilar had provided and one of Sheridan as a child. On the back of the locket, was an inscription. It simply had two interlocking ‘F’s and the names below, Felix and Flora. Sheridan hugged her friend and said, “Great. Now you’re going to make me cry.” Just then, Tommy Breyer knocked on the door and said, “Well, are you ready, Shakes? It’s now or never.” Tommy had agreed to walk Sheridan down the isle since Alistair was busy making license plates. As the music began to play, Sheridan started down the isle, as all her friends watched. She saw Luis waiting for her and remembered that summer day when he caught her underneath the poplar tree. She knew that Luis would always be there to catch her when she fell. Luis felt like the luckiest man alive to have that responsibility.
~The End~
