Chapter 1:
In a little town called Harmony there lived many families, The Russels, The Cranes, The Winthrops, The Bennets, The Lopez-Fitzgeralds, The Hotchkisses, The Hastings, The Wallaces, and some few random people like Tabitha(the town witch), Reese(the town nerd), Chad, and Liz. In the Russell family, there was T.C., Eve, Whitney, and Simone. In the Crane family, there was Katherine, Alistair, Julian, Sheridan, and Fox. In the Winthrop family, there was Ivy and Ethan. In the Bennets family, there was Sam, Grace, Noah, Kay, Charity, and Jessica. In the Hotchkiss family, there was Gwen and Rebecca. In the Hasting family, there was David and John. In the Wallace family, there was Mrs. Wallace and Beth. In the Lopez Fitzgerald family, there was Pilar, Antonio, Luis, Theresa, Miguel, and Paloma. Martin Lopez Fitzgerald had been missing for a long time and no one seemed to know where he went. Every family in harmony seemed to have a secret or mystery about their family.
In addition, many of them had messy love lives, centering around unrequited love, love triangles, etc. One such Harmony resident was Sheridan Crane and Hank Bennett had it bad for Sheridan, he would follow her around like a lost puppy, but sadly, for Hank, Sheridan did not feel the same. She was soon to meet her destiny and Hank's best friend, Luis Lopez Fitzgerald. Even though the first time Sheridan and Luis met, she crashed into his car and he arrested her. The two could not ignore the love the one felt for the other. The two had their share of hardships though the first step was for them to actually admit their feelings for each other.
One day while sitting in Sheridan's cottage, Luis heard screams from Sheridan's bedroom. He knew she had gone to lie down to try to get rid of her headache, so he went to see what was wrong. He walked in and found her tossing, turning, and yelling out incoherent things. He walked over, stopped her from moving, and pulled her close to him.
"No, no, no.” She kept saying.
"Sheridan, wake up" Luis said. Startled Sheridan jumped but soon realized what had happened and pulled Luis close to her. She trembled in his arms and he tried to calm her. She opened her mouth and began to try to tell him what was wrong. However, Luis decided to calm her and finally express his feelings for her so instead of her telling him what happened he pulled her into a Passionate kiss. Sheridan was caught by surprise at first, but then began to kiss Luis back, and was so happy that she finally found someone she loves and who loves her back. She hopes that no one will interfere in her love life and for once let her be happy.
Sheridan lay in Luis' arms feeling safer than she had ever felt before. She sighed and decided she needed to tell him about the dream she just had because they seemed to haunt her all the time. He heard her sigh and ran his hand up and down her back trying to calm her. He felt her begin to start shaking again, took her chin in his left hand, and made her look into his eyes.
"What's wrong, sweetie? You know you can tell me anything"
"I don't know Luis; this dream just has me really scared. I have it all the time and I can't seem to get rid of it.”
“Well, what is it about"
"Well, I am really young and I am sitting at the top of the stairs and I hear yelling. "I was so scared that I ran to get a letter opener. When I sat back down, I heard footstep's behind me so I ran downstairs and hid behind a curtain. Suddenly I felt somebody run right into me...I Killed somebody! Luis I killed somebody! I think it is your father! It was the same night he disappeared! Luis I'm sooo sorry it’s ok if you hate me," Sheridan said in between tears and sobs.
Sheridan continued to tremble in Luis arms but began to untangle herself from them. Luis took her hand in one of his hands and her face in the other and said. "Sheridan there is no way in this world that I could ever hate you. You were so little there is no way that you could have killed someone with a letter opener and even if you did, you did not know what you were doing. I do not hate you and I do not blame you even though now it makes it even clearer on your family's part in my father's disappearance. We will find the underlying cause of this, Together. I promise I will never leave you. I love you.”
“Oh, Luis I love you too. I am so happy you do not hate me. I love you so much. Just hold me. I want to make this feeling go away and stay away. I hate having these dreams. Just make them stop. Please!” She became more hysterical as she thought about having to do to sleep tonight and worried about having the dream repeatedly. Haunting her forever
“It is ok Sheridan" Luis replied sweetly. "I will stay in here with you tonight, not on the couch.”
"Luis you don't have to, I'll be fine.” Sheridan said.
"No, Sheridan I want to, I'll just set up a bed in that chair or on the floor...ok?” Luis said.
“If you are sure, Luis, I would like that very much.”
“Of course, I am sure; I would do anything for you. Now I am going to go get a few blankets and my pillow from the couch.”
“Okay, Luis I will be waiting for you right here.” She said and smiled. Luis went and grabbed the few things he needed and went back into her room. He set up the makeshift bed on the floor and sat beside her on the bed. He pulled her into a tight hug and then gave her a quick goodnight kiss and settled on the floor.
"Goodnight Sweetheart" she said.
"Good night Sherry Lynn.”
They both drifted off to sleep. A few hours later Luis awoke to Sheridan's screams. Luis flew up from his makeshift bed to find Sheridan sitting rigidly in her bed screaming. He rushed over to her bed and threw his arms around her to sooth her.
"It's okay Sher, its okay.”
"NOOOOOO! Luis Help me!”
“Sheridan I am here, I'm right here...I won't leave you.” Luis replied rubbing her back. Sheridan's tear-filled eyes flew open to see Luis' back, he was holding her. She felt a little relieved and asked Luis if he would sleep in her bed with her tonight.
"Umm...If you want me to I will...remember I will do ANYTHING for you Sheridan, I love you.” Luis replied waiting for Sheridan's reply back. “I….I Love you too Luis.” She said with a thin smile on her face. He pulled her close to him and she snuggled deep into his embrace and laid her head on his finely structured chest. He kissed her softly on her head and they both drifted off to sleep.
Luis and Sheridan awoke to the phone ringing. By the time someone picked it up the other person (Ethan) had hung up.
"Wow Luis I never slept as peacefully as I did in your arms last night.”
"Me neither, maybe we should do it again" Luis said with a wink.
"Very funny officer, when can I take you up on your offer?”
"How about tonight Ms. Crane?”
"Sounds good to me...now let me go and take a shower" Sheridan said starting to get up.
"Not if I can get there first!” Luis said pulling Sheridan down and running into the bathroom.
Instead of running after Luis, Sheridan lay back down and smiled. She was so happy but then she realized something. 'How in the world were they going to tell her father and Hank, oh my was going to get interesting. Oh well, I love Luis and he loves me and that is all that matters.’ She thought. She laid there for a long time and did not even notice the person watching her through her window.
"Oh Sheridan" the strange man outside the window said. "I have newspaper clipping pictures everything of just you my love....” The man outside of her window was a Stalker, he was madly in love with Sheridan, or so he though. Sheridan was startled when a dripping wet Luis walked over to her on the bed shaking his wet hair in her face.
"Luis!” Sheridan screamed but Luis just laughed.
"Shh!” He said shutting her up with another kiss. Giggling Sheridan sat up and kissed Luis fully on the lips.
"I am going to take my shower now, Luis.”
"Okay, I am going to go make us some breakfast.” They both went their separate ways.
Meanwhile, outside the window, Sheridan's stalker walked around to see if there was a bathroom window. The stalker found a bathroom window and slipped in a little note that read:
To the Love of My Life, Sheridan,
My Dear, You don't know what you do to me at night, I am so crazy in love with you, I would like my chance to finally meet you...Meet me at the Book Cafe at 6:00 I'll be waiting.
~__________
When Sheridan got out of the shower she found the note sitting on her towel, and the window was open. 'That's odd' Sheridan thought closing the window and locking it. She picked up the little note and started reading it. When she read the final line, she screamed for Luis. She knew it was not from Luis because he knew that this stuff scared her, and it was not his handwriting.
To Be Continued...
Chapter 2:
Luis came running to the bathroom and tried to open the door, he was so scared something happened to her, when he finally got the door open Sheridan was sitting on the floor, with her face in her hands with nothing on but a tiny towel.
"Sheridan... sweetheart what is wrong?” He asked her in alarm. He sat down beside her and noticed the note in her hands. He took it from her, pulled her close to him, and took the note in his arms. As he read it, he felt her begin shaking horribly in his arms. When he finished reading it, he placed a kiss on her head and held her for the longest time while she cried.
Finally, she picked her head up, looked into his eyes.
"Why, Luis, why.” Luis pulled her close again.
"I…I don't know baby, I really don't know.” He whispered. He felt her start to breathe harder.
"Sheridan looks at me" She looked into his worry filled amber eyes and saw love.
“I will never, I mean never let anything hurt you. I will find this guy, don't worry, he'll never hurt you.” Luis said.
"Oh Luis, I love you!” Sheridan said wrapping her arms around his chest.
"I love..."he tried to say before she pulled him into a big hug.
“Wow Sheridan, you really need to stop lifting weights" he joked. Sheridan hit him playfully and stood you to wash her tear stained face. Luis got up and walked over to her.
"Now Sheridan, why would you wash your face when you can just take another shower?" he asked wiggling his eyebrows.”
”That’s a good idea Mr. Lopez-Fitzgerald, and you just gave your self an invitation...out of the bathroom.” Sheridan said smiling and pushing him out the door.
"Awe, Sheridan.” Luis said sticking out his lip putting on the best puppy face he could.
"Awe, look at that face" She giggled pointing at Luis' lip. Luis immediately smiled
"Oh well, here's and idea, go us some wine and wait for me so we can talk or something." she said, this time she was wiggling her eyebrows.
"Okay, but on one condition.”
"And what is that officer?” She asked.
"This" he said pulling her by the towel to meet their lips in a hot kiss.
"Well then" she said pulling him back into the bathroom, "forget the wine! You come here," She said pulling him into a kiss this time while he turned on the shower and water sprinkled on them.
A few hours later, Sheridan and Luis were seated at the Book Cafe. She was wearing a baby blue sundress and Luis was in a navy tee shirt and jeans. They had decided to figure out how to tell everyone they were in love. They did not want to hurt Hank or Beth at all but they needed to find a way to break it to them gently.
"How are we going to do this Luis?” Sheridan asked.
"I don't know but however we do, do it, we will do it together.” Luis smiled sweetly.
Just then, Sheridan's stalker walked into the Book Cafe but neither of them noticed because they only had eyes for each other. The server came, took their order, and went off to get it.
Just then, Beth walked in; she noticed Sheridan and Luis sitting and headed over that way. She slid in beside Luis and gave him a quick kiss. (Beth thought Luis was dating her) Sheridan turned her head away and Luis sighed.
"Beth, Sheridan, and I have something to tell you.” Under the table, he reached for Sheridan's hand and gently squeezed it, giving her some reassurance.
"Beth, Sheridan, and I have realized our feelings for each other. We are in love."
Beth looked away in disgust and hurt. She stood up and walked over to Sheridan. She slapped Sheridan and said that she was always trying to take Luis away from her. Just then, Sheridan's stalker ran over and punched Beth because she had hit his beloved Sheridan. Luis got up, grabbed Sheridan by the arm, and dragged her out of the Book Cafe.
"Who was that guy Sheridan?” Luis asked.
"I don't know Luis but I think he was my stalker. I looked at him quick but he fit the description that he wrote in that freaky letter.” Sheridan said trembling.
"It's okay Sheridan.” Luis said putting his arms around her pulling her in for a hug. Just then, they heard a gunshot go off in the Book Cafe. Sheridan screamed and pulled Luis to her. He tighten his grip on her.
"Sheridan go down and sit in the Youth Center. I want you to lock all the doors and keep everything shut up. Please stay there until I come back. I love you so please just stay there.” Sheridan took one look at him and knew he was serious. She nodded her head to let him know she would obey. They kissed and she told him to be careful and took off.
Luis turned around and headed into the Cafe with his gun drawn.
"Everyone put your hands up and drop everything you are holding.” That is when he noticed Beth lying on top of a man. He picked up his warlike and buzzed Sam and told him the situation. Sam said he would be there soon with police and an ambulance for Beth. Sheridan was in the Youth Center, trembling but doing everything Luis said. Just then, she heard Hank's voice behind her.
Luis ran over to Beth and started shaking her; he felt for a pulse and realized she did not have one.
"She's dead!” Luis screamed. Sam came rushing into the door, gun drawn with 3 other police officers and 2 paramedics.
"Luis, does she have a pulse?” Sam asked frantically.
"No Sam, she is dead.” Luis said, sadly. The paramedics went over to her and realized that there was nothing they could do for her, Beth Wallace was dead. Luis walked away from the bodies and Sam followed him.
"Hey I am sorry buddy. I know she was your friend and all."
"Thanks Sam, I am going to go get Sheridan and tell her what happened."
"Okay buddy."
Luis headed out and down to the Book Cafe.
Meanwhile...Sheridan ducked under Luis' desk. She prayed Hank would not find her cause she did not feel like facing him alone.
"Hello? Is anybody here?” Hank hollered. Sheridan held her breath and shut her eyes when she felt a hand on her shoulder. She jumped about ten feet and hit her head knocking her unconscious.
"Oh my god" Luis yelped. He pulled her out from under the desk and laid her on the sofa. Hank came in a seen Sheridan laying there and flipped his lid.
"What in the hell did you do to her Luis?"
"Nothing I just tapped her and she hit her head.” Just then, Sheridan came to and tears formed in her eyes. Hanks tried to help her up but she reached for Luis, who pulled her into a tight hug and kissed her head.
"I am sorry," He said. Hank looked at him with questioning eyes.
Luis caught Sheridan's eyes and she nodded her head yes.
"Hank, we need to tell you something.” Luis started but was cut off.
"I understand Luis; I know what's going on here”
"No, Hank I'm pretty sure you don't" Luis said putting his hand on Hank' shoulder.
"Yea, I get it. You are being nice to Sheridan because you feel bad that you did that to her. You are sorry and because you have to at least be civil with my girl.” Hank said, turning his head to Sheridan.
"No, Hank" Pulling Hank's hand off Sheridan's arm "you are wrong. I love Sheridan and she loves me.” Luis tried to say without blasting him with his temper and frustration. That caught Hank's attention
"You...you what?” Hank was shocked! "But Luis, I'm sorry man; she doesn't feel for you like she does for me.” Hank said looking at Sheridan again.
Sheridan sat up and felt a little dizzy and Luis pushed Hank away, still a bit confused, and held Sheridan up. "Hank, your right. I don't feel the same about Luis as I do for you.” Luis was shocked this time.
"See...I told you Luis.” Hank said triumphantly
"Sher...” Luis stuttered, his mind running a mile a minute.
"Luis, calm down, and Hank, what I meant was that I love Luis but I am only your friend, that's all, I do feel different about Luis, but in a higher way. I am sorry Hank."
Hank looked at them both and said... "I can't believe you too, would do something like this to me and to Beth. Have you even told her yet?” He stood up in a rage.
"Umm...yeah, we have and I have something to tell you both.” Luis said, looking grave.
Sheridan eyes began to fill with tears and she said. "This is about the gunshot from earlier isn't It."
"Yeah it is, ummm...it seems like whoever it was that shot off the gun hit Beth. When I got there, she was laying underneath some stranger. When we got him off her. She was...gone.” Luis said. He looked away from Sheridan, so that she could not see the pain in his eyes.
"OMG, Luis, I killed Beth! Probably my stalker went after her when she called me all those horrible things! Luis what if I am the reason that Beth is dead!” Sheridan said hysterically. Luis reached over and pulled her to him. She fell into his sobbing uncontrollably.
"Hey, look here. This is not your fault. You didn't pull the trigger, you didn't tell the guy to stalk you, and you don't even know that it was him to begin with.” Luis tried to convince her. It was not really working.
"Look, Hank, I am going to take her home. She needs to rest and calm down. We can talk later if you want."
"Sure, Luis, whatever you think is best."
"Thanks Hank"
Luis picked Sheridan up in his arms and she burrowed her head into his chest. He took her out to the car and headed home.
Back at the cottage Luis' heart broke because Sheridan wouldn't stop blaming herself.
"It's my fault. It's my fault" She kept on repeating it over and over.
"SHERIDAN! NO IT IS NOT!" Luis screamed trying to get her attention. He was successful. She looked up at him with a tear stained face, just like the one she had this morning. Luis enveloped her in his warm embrace and again whispered soothing things into her ear. Once she calmed down, he decided to talk.
"Sheridan, it is not your fault. That was some physco it may not have been your stalker. Just...just...I dunno Sher. I just do not know. I think we need to get away from here for a little while. Just the two of us. I love Sheridan, don't forget that." Luis said getting up from the couch and walking over to the phone to call Sam.
“I think that's a good idea Luis, let me go take a shower and I'll pack our clothes." She said heading to the bedroom.
"Sounds good, but I do want one thing," He said with the receiver to his ear waiting for Sam to pick up.
"And what is that Mr. Lopez-Fitzgerald?”
"A kiss of course." He said with a wink. Sheridan waked over, gave him a sweet, full, and lingering kiss, and let go right before Sam picked up.
"Harmony P.D. Chief Bennett here." Sam replied into the receiver. “Sam, its Luis. Any news?"
"Luis, well we caught the murderer, and he is behind bars. We have two key witnesses so far. You weren't there right?"
"No, me and Sheridan heard the shots after some maniac ran in and punched Beth. I had to get Sheridan out of there, I'm glad I did, that could have been her. Sam, Sheridan has a stalker and we both think that he may be the guy. I don't want Sheridan to see his horrible face and we need to get away. Can I take some time off?" Luis asked.
"Sure buddy, but we'll need back in 2-weeks...okay?"
"Deal."
"Have fun, and be careful will ya?" Sam said a little worried.
"I will Sam, and thanks.” "No problem buddy. Bye"
"Bye"
Luis walked back into the bedroom and heard the water still running. He decided that they could get out of here faster if he hopped in now with her. Luis stripped his clothes and walked into the bathroom. He opened the curtain and saw Sheridan trembling and crying on the shower floor.
He quickly picked her up and noticed the pool of blood on the floor. He grabbed a towel and carried her into the bedroom. He checked her over to make sure nothing was cut or hurt. Then, he pulled her into his arms and tried to calm her. She continued to shake in his arms and he couldn't get her to stop so he did the only think he could think of. He picked her head up and gave her the most passionate kiss he could. She responded with all the fear and hurt in her body. She tried to deepen the kiss but when she did, Luis pulled away.
"Why did you pull away, Luis?"
"Cause we need to talk about what happened in there and why there was blood on the floor."
"I don't know what happened Luis, I got in there and I started to wash myself when I looked down and there was a pool of blood and I freaked. I don't know what did it but I know it wasn't me." Sheridan looked away but Luis took her chin in his hand and gently made her look at him.
"Sheridan, I don't know what it was either but I am going to go look and see if I can figure it out. Okay?" Luis said.
"NO, Luis, you can't leave me here! What if my stalker comes and tries to get me! Please don't leave me!" Sheridan became hysterical again. Luis sighed and pulled her close but he knew he needed to figure out what caused the blood.
"Sher, I promise nothing is going to get you but I need to figure out what cause the blood or who. You know that, sweetie. We can never be passed this if I don't go look. Now, you sit here and I promise I will be right back."
"Please hurry Luis!" Sheridan said crying.
"I will, sweetie, I promise!" Luis gave her a kiss and a hug. He headed to the bathroom to figure out what happened and when he got there, he saw the problem.
To Be Continued...
Chapter 3:
Chapter 3:
It was just some Strawberry Shampoo He looked at the bottle and noticed a big hole in the side, he didn't know how that got there but that's how it spilled all over the floor.
When Luis realized what it was he ran back into the bedroom, so Sheridan wouldn't worry and was laughing.
"God Luis, why are you laughing?" She asked looking at him with her big baby-blues.
"Sheridan, you won't believe this."
"What!"
"It was just some of your favorite strawberry shampoo that spilled into the tub because there was a hole in the bottle." Luis said still trying to contain his laughter.
"That's it? I knew it smelled fruity when I was down there." Sheridan joked, for the first time since the accident.
They were interrupted by the telephone. Luis picked it up, but there was this feeling in his gut that something wasn't right.
"Luis? This is Sam."
"Hey Sam, What's up?"
"Well remember how you said that Sheridan has a stalker?"
"Yeah, why?"
"Well that guy that killed Beth is him."
"Wow, that's some news Sam."
"Yea, but I'm not even up to the worst part."
"Go on Sam." Luis said with his stomach still twisting.
"Well, he isn't dead Luis and he kinda got away."
"What do you mean he isn't dead and he kinda got away! Sam!" Luis shouted.
"Well, the man isn't dead and he got away. I don't know how but he did. You need to get Sheridan away from here quick. I will call you as soon as I find out anything. Okay... just get going and be careful."
"Alright Sam, we will be gone in five. Bye." Luis hung up the phone and headed into the bedroom. He began to pack everything he had at Sheridan's.
"What did Sam want Luis?" Sheridan asked.
"Nothing...he just told us we need to get out of here quickly. I will explain once we get going, I just need you to hurry up. Okay, sweetheart? Just trust me on this one." Luis smiled at her.
"Okay, Luis, whatever you say. I am almost done." Sheridan said. She threw in a few other things and zipped it shut. Luis shut his too. He took her things and his and headed out to the car. He put them into the trunk and went back for her. He settled her into the car and that was when Sheridan's cell phone rang.
"Hello?" Sheridan said before Luis could tell her not to answer it.
"Hello, my sweet darling. I am watching you."
Sheridan screamed and dropped the phone in her lap and looked at Luis with terrified eyes.
"Luis, he's watching us!" Sheridan screamed frantically
"What Sheridan Where?!" Luis said jumping in the car and locking all the doors. Once all the doors were locked, he looked around from the inside of his jeep.
"I don't know, he just called me, Luis, hold me. I am scared."
"I am too honey, but I am here for you, I love you now lets get out of here."
Sheridan rested her head on Luis' shoulder while he quickly pulled away from the Crane Estate keeping a good look out for any cars that would be following him. He didn't see any still by the time that the go to the Edge of Harmony.
"Sheridan I think we are safe, we have to go somewhere far far away. I am not trusting anybody, I love you too much." He said kissing her head. That's when he heard her light snoring. 'Boy, she should be tired today was long.' Luis heard his cell phone go off and looked at the caller ID. When it said Harmony P.D., he decided to pick it up and pull to the side.
To Be Continued...
Chapter 4:
"Lopez-Fitzgerald"
"Luis, it's me again."
"Sam?"
"Yeah."
"What is it Sam? Did you catch him?"
"No, but we did discover that he put a tracking device on your jeep. The station picked up
the signal some how. We also found out that he is a wanted murderer, and has stalked other people before. He is armed and dangerous."
"Oh Lord! Why, Why Sheridan? Why can't she just have a normal life?"
"Umm...she is a Crane."
"No need for a reminder, but I love her."
"Luis, I think that you and Sheridan should just keep driving, but switch cars! I don't need you back at the station, I don't want you are Sheridan within 5000 miles of Harmony until I call you and tell you that it is safe. We need to get this guy, and I will NOT have either of your lives in danger."
"But Sam..."
"No Buts, this is an order!"
"Yes sir, but what about my family."
"I will have guards at the doors, and at the Crane mansion. I won't let anything happen to
them. I promise. You two are to start new lives until I want you back. Do you understand?"
"Yeah Sam, I understand."
"I will only contact you by this phone in case of Emergencies.
Such as if, we caught him or something happened to your family, but I assure you Luis, I won't anything happen to them. I also want you to go to a bank, I am forwarding 1 Million dollars to you both, as a
"nest egg" to your new life together, it will be in your savings account. And buy a new cell phone. When you get the new contract for the phone put it in your new name, what ever that may be and call here and tell me the new number. Your new phone is your communication to me, and your family. The one you are using now, just for Emergencies. Got it?"
"I got it Sam. Thanks for doing this, we will be protected."
"Yes you will Luis, and please, please be careful. We all love you both very much. Here is your mother and siblings to say good bye."
Luis had tears in his eyes; he looked over at his sleeping Beauty while Sam put his mother on the phone. 'Sheridan, I love you. This is what we need to do. I'm sorry we have to leave our lives but it's an order' Luis thought to himself just as his mother's frantic voice picked up the phone.
"Mijo! Be careful, listen to Sam, don't let anything happen to either of my children. Do you understand me?"
"Yes, Mama. I love you soo much! I will miss you, but this has to be done."
"Si, mijo. Call me when everything is settled. Here's Miguel."
"Okay Mama. I love you Bye."
"Bye Mijo, good-bye.” Pilar said right before bursting into tears.
Luis was crying now and Sheridan started to stir.
"Miguel?"
"Yes Luis."
"Miguel, I feel horrible, I am leaving you like Antonio and Papa. I promise I will be back though. I need you to be strong for the family, take care of them. I trust you."
"I love you Luis."
"I love you too Miguel. But do as I say okay?"
"Okay, I will and don't worry; it's for your safety. Bye Bro."
"Bye Miguel."
Theresa was next but Luis told her to hold on because Sheridan was lifting her head.
"Luis, why did we stop?" Sheridan said wiping the sleep out of her eyes. Then she noticed the tears in his eyes and on his face and got really scared.
"Luis what is it? What’s wrong?" Sheridan became frantic.
"Sheridan, I will explain the detail later but we have to leave our lives and start new ones. I am saying good-bye to my family and then you can say good-bye to Ethan. It's too dangerous."
"But Luis..." Sheridan was now sobbing uncontrollably.
"No Sheridan it is really dangerous. I will tell you more just let's finish saying good-bye."
"Okay." She managed to squeak out.
"Theresa?"
"I'm here Luis."
Luis could tell she was crying like a maniac, and he felt horrible. He loved Sheridan too much and just had to let his family go for now. They had to be safe.
"Theresa, I love you. I will be back soon. Do not worry. Be strong. Please, for me."
"For you Luis, but I don't want you to go." Theresa said
"I know Honey, but I have to, I'm so sorry. Time is getting short. Will you please put Ethan on the phone for Sheridan?"
"Okay Luis, be careful and be strong. Come home to us, I don't think Mama would be able to handle losing another man from her life. Oh and I love you."
"I love you too kiddo and don't worry." Luis said trying to be strong.
"Bye."
"Bye"
Luis handed the phone to Sheridan and she said her good-bye to Ethan. She was tearing apart inside. 'Too much has happened to her today.' Luis thought to himself. When he heard Sheridan say "Good-bye" and "I love you" to Ethan he knew they were on their way to a new life. He didn't know what was to come, but it had to get better. For Sheridan's sake, it had to.
"Luis?" Sheridan said handing him his cell phone.
"Yea baby?"
"I love you."
"I love you too, so very much."
Sheridan slid over to Luis and he wrapped his arm around her. He started the car and pulled out onto the road.
"We will get through this baby I know we will." Luis told Sheridan.
"I believe you but let's just get far far away from here."
"Okay, sweetheart, we will."
Luis drove to the closest town and parked the car at the edge so Sheridan's stalker wouldn't be able to trace them back to the dealer. Sheridan was sleeping soundly on Luis' shoulder but he knew he had to wake her. Sighing, he gently shook her and told her what was going on. She sleepily got out of the car and Luis grabbed their bags. They went to the nearest police station where their new identities would be. They headed in and went to the desk.
"Hello, my name is Luis Lopez Fitzgerald and I am here to pick up my new identity for me and my fiancée here." Luis said making Sheridan smile a little since, she knew she wasn't his fiancée.
"Yes, we have been waiting for you two. Go to that door back there and the officer will tell you everything you need to know."
"Thank you, sir." Luis said and turned with Sheridan toward the door. They went in and there was a man with dark brown hair sitting there. He had a packet of information in front of him.
"Hello Mr. Lopez Fitzgerald, my name is Officer Lewis and I will be helping you with everything. First off, I will give you your new names. Luis, you will now be Justin Longrace and Sheridan, you will be Lily Stivers. These are your new driver's licenses, checking accounts and all your old credit cards but with different numbers and your new names. Chief Bennett said that there was 1 million dollars in your account so that you could buy all new things. There is a car dealership just down the block and a diner beside there. Also, here is your new cell phone number and cell phone. Make sure to keep your old cell in case of emergencies. You will need to call me when you decide where you will live and tell me all about. You must go now because time is precious."
Luis and Sheridan were in awe of how fastly things were happening but they thanked Officer Lewis and headed down to the dealership. There they picked out a navy blue, Jeep Cherokee. They headed over to the diner to grab some food to go. They quickly ate their food in the car and drove. It was getting late.
"Sherry, sweetie, why don't you lie down and try and get some rest. It has been a long day for both of us."
"Luis, I don't wanna let you stay up all by yourself." Sheridan protested.
"Sher, you need to sleep, I will be fine. I will turn the radio on and that will be great."
"Okay, Luis but only on one condition."
"What would that be Sher?"
"That I get to use you as a pillow."
"Sounds great to me." Sheridan looked into one of her bags and found a blanket, Luis covered her with it, and she leaned against him. She quickly drifted off to sleep.
Luis continued to drive trying to figure out where he could stop. Finally, he saw a hotel in the distance and decided to stop there.
Luis stopped. He hated that he had to wake Sheridan up again but he did. Sheridan groggily awoke and walked into the office with him. Luis signed in with their new names and paid the man in cash. He decided that he would try and get as much cash as possible so in case her stalker does find out their new identities that he wouldn't be able to follow them by Credit Cards. He decided that they would go shopping for clothes and what ever else they needed here, by credit card and keep going. Using it less and less.
When Sheridan and Luis got into the hotel room, he put their bags in the closet and they sat down on the bed. It wasn't a bad looking hotel room. It was clean and bright and hey, Motel 6 really does keep the light on!
"Luis, I'm tired but I want to talk, then we can cuddle." Sheridan said sweetly.
"Anything for you." Luis said leaning over and placing a sweet kiss on her lips. The kiss escalated into more but he knew they had to stop. They had to get this all figured and mapped out.
They discussed their plan, and Luis had an idea of his own. An idea the Officer had given him at the station.
He would wait until later to put his plan into action though. They decided to get ready for bed since it was getting later and they would have to be up in the morning to drive.
"Luis?"
"Yeah, sweetie."
"Could you do me a favor?"
"Sure, what's wrong?"
"I wanna get a shower but I don't wanna be in there by myself so would you umm,.........maybe........could you...." Sheridan got all flustered and Luis grinned at her.
"I would love to take a shower with you miss, Lily." Luis grinned.
Sheridan grabbed her robe and nightgown, while Luis grabbed the towels and sponge and his boxers and they headed into the tiny bathroom. Luis turned the water on and turned to Sheridan, who was a little nervous for some reason. He walked over to her and gave her a hot steamy kiss; he worked his hands under her shirt and slowly slid it over her head. He quickly unhooked the bra in the back and slid it off her shoulders. She reached down, unhooked the buckle on his belt, and unzipped his jeans. She slid them down his waist while, he slid off her skirt. Now she took her hand and with one finger pulled his boxers off him. He quickly pulled her panties off.
Now, they were both naked. Luis picked Sheridan up into his arms and carried her the four steps into the shower, all while never breaking the kiss. They let the water run over them and they slowly began to wash each other. They washed each other’s hair and continued to stand under the hot beating water. Finally, Sheridan couldn't wait any longer.
"I need you Luis, I need you now." She said in a deep voice.
"Are you sure?"
"I have never been sure of anything in my life."
Luis began to pick her up but Sheridan stopped him.
"No, Luis, right here."
"I love you Sher!" Luis said looking into her eyes.
"I love you Luis!" And with that he pushed her against the wall and raised her body up to his. He slowly lowered himself into her and he began to make slow passionate love.
After the shower, Luis carried them both into the bed. He laid her down and lay down beside her. She slid over and he wrapped his arms around her. She laid her head on his chest and they both said their prayers to god to keep them safe and thanking him for what blessings they did have. They both drifted off to dreamland, hoping to put past what had all happened today.
Luis woke up at 8:30 the next morning. Sheridan was still sleeping. She was drained and he did not blame her. He didn't want to move and wake her up because he woke her up at least four times the day before. Instead, he just laid there and looked up at the ceiling. He was recalling the best that that happened to them yesterday. Just like he said in his prayers, he thanked God that they could at least have some happiness on that horrible day. He remembered making love to Sheridan, how needy it was. He wanted the next time to be special, it had to be, and she deserved it. With out really moving Sheridan Luis got up. He had to; they had to get out of there.
At around 9:00 Sheridan's eyes started to flutter open and she felt the emptiness beside her and immediately panicked She looked around the room for Luis, even though she was a bit blinded by the bright light she realized he wasn't in the room with her. Then she was suddenly calmed when she heard his voice. He walked out of the bathroom still wiping his face from the shaving cream, when Sheridan launched herself into his arms.
"Luis, I didn't see you I was so scared."
"No need Sheridan, I will NEVER leave you." Luis said still holding Sheridan and walking over to the bed.
"Why don't you get dressed while I check us out of the hotel?" He said to her. They really needed to get on the road, he wanted to get to Washington (State) in a week, and they were only in the tip of New York State.
"Luis, can't you wait here with me? I really don't want to be here alone by myself changing. Please." Sheridan asked sweetly sticking out her infamous quivering lip.
"Of course Sweetheart."
Luis stayed in the room while Sheridan changed and then they both grabbed their bags and checked out of that hotel.
When Luis exited the building, he noticed a garbage can. He asked Sheridan for her cell phone and threw it out. He didn't want her to get anymore weird phone calls, and he explained that to her. Then they got in the car and drove. They were on their way now. On their way to a new and hopefully better life, without any interference or manipulation. It was just the two of them and the open road.
As they drove Sheridan looked out the window. She began to get bored and leaned over to switch on the radio. Luis looked at her and smiled. She was so beautiful; you could hardly tell all the hell she had just been put through.
Suddenly, a slow song and she looked over to him and caught his eye. She grinned and reached for his hand, which he took hers in his and pulled it close to his lips. She unbuckled herself and slid over close to him, hooking the middle seatbelt around her waist. She settled her head on his shoulder. They both listened as the song played thinking of their love for one another.
Here we are in the arms of one another
And we still go on searching for each other
Knowing that hate is wrong and love is
Right for us tonight
When I look into your Spanish eyes
I know the reason why I am alive
And the world is so beautiful tonight
It's a place I've never been
And it comes from deep within
And it's telling me that I'm about to win first prize
Knowing all I have to do
Is reach out my hand to you
Anytime I want to look into your Spanish eyes
Let it be if we're nothing more than dreamers
Who believe that we see no wall between us
How can they be in my heart and in my mind
When all I could find
When I look into your Spanish eyes
I know the reason why I am alive
And the world is so beautiful tonight
It's a place I've never been
And it comes from deep within
And it's telling me that I'm about to win first prize
Knowing all I have to do
Is reach out my hand to you
Anytime I want to look into your Spanish eyes
I loved you from a distance
Thought I couldn't reach that far
I can't believe how close that we are
When I look into your Spanish eyes
And the world is so beautiful tonight
It's a place I've never been
And it comes from deep within
And it's telling me that I'm about to win first prize
Knowing all I have to do
Is reach out my hand to you
Anytime I want to look into your Spanish eyes
"I love you, Luis!" Sheridan grinned looking into his "Spanish Eyes".
"I love you too, Sherry Lynn!" Luis grinned back at her. They left the radio on and watched the road go by. They passed the sign announcing they were now in Michigan and Sheridan began to get hungry.
"Luis?" She said quietly.
"Yeah, Sherry-Lynn?"
"Do you think we could stop soon, I am getting hungry?"
"Sure, and maybe we could find a Super Wal-Mart or something, so we can grab some other things we will need.
"That sounds good. I will make a list so it will not take as long."
"You can if you want but actually I was thinking that maybe we could just stay her for the night."
"Well, in that case, I think I will just stay here for right now." She decided, and snuggled into his shoulder. He wrapped his arm around her and she took his free hand in hers.
"Why don't you try to sleep some?"
"Actually, I'm not really tired. Anyway, I would rather be awake in your arms better.” Luis smiled; he would never get tired of being in his arms either. They drove another half an hour before finding a place with food, stores, and a hotel.
"Well, where do you wanna eat Sher? There is Don Pablo’s, The Empress, Kings, or The Villa."
"Don Pablo’s sounds good to me, as long as that is fine with you"
"Yeah that is fine." He steered the car over and parked. He walked around and let her out. They went in and quickly got a seat.
"Wow, this is different from the one I was at last! You couldn't dance there!” Luis said excitedly as Spanish music played over the speakers and people danced out on the floor. They took their seat and ordered enchiladas. Just then, a tango came on over the speakers.
"Come on Sher, Let's Dance!" Luis said pulling her to the dance floor.
"Luis, I have never done this before."
"Just follow me and watch my eyes."
"Okay, I guess, we can try." She said excitedly. Luis pulled her close to his and she soon fell into his movements, always seeming to know what he was going to do before he did it. By the end of the song, they were so mesmerized with each other; they almost didn't hear it end. Sheridan noticed everyone around watching them and began to blush. She pushed her head into Luis' chest and he lead them off the floor. The waitress brought their food just then and they both sat down to eat.
During dinner, Luis thought that this would be the perfect time to approach Sheridan on his idea.
"Sheridan," he said while she was scarfing down her food. "I want to talk to about something."
"Yes Luis?" She said wiping her mouth
"Well since we are starting our new lives, I want to start this off right."
"What do you mean?" She asked a little excitedly.
"I..."
"Sir, would you like another drink?" The waiter asked, not realizing that he interrupter an important moment.
"Ummm...sure." Luis said, annoyed.
"That was weird." Sheridan said.
Luis nodded and grabbed her hand and stated again.
"Sheridan Katherine Crane, I love you, and we are starting new lives. I want to build a family with you, and this is the way to do it. Sheridan, will you make me the happiest man alive and marry me?"
Sheridan didn't say a word.
"Wait...let me rephrase this...Lily Stivers will you marry me and become Mrs. John Longrace?" He said with a chuckle
Sheridan was thoughtful...but she seemed to finally make her decision
"Luis, I...I...
To Be Continued...
Chapter 5:
Yes, Justin, I would love to become your wife." Sheridan had tears streaming down her cheeks. She couldn't believe Luis had just asked her to marry him. She was so excited but then she realized something.
"Justin, what about out families? I would want them to be here if we got married and you know your mother would want to be here also."
"I know, sweetie, and you know it takes time to plan a wedding so hopefully they will have caught this damn guy by then, and we will be free!" Luis said with a smile.
"Okay, okay, let's get out of here! I wanna spend some time with you alone." They stood up and Luis quickly paid the bill and they headed out to the car.
"Okay, we need to go to the store so we can get some things." Luis said.
"Okay, but we are going to hurry because I want to be completely alone with you!" Luis leaned over and kissed her and then they started the car and they headed toward the store. They decided to split up so they could hurry and get their alone time.
Luis went and grabbed some extra things and ran them out to the car. Then he headed back in and got his things so Sheridan wouldn't think anything of it. He got all his stuff and met her in the front of the store. They quickly paid and got to the hotel. While Luis checked in, he asked Sheridan to go get some wine and strawberry cheesecake for dessert. He hurried up to the room, lit the candles he bought, plugged in a CD player, and placed the CD in it. He heard the door begin to open and settled in a corner.
Sheridan walked in holding the dessert and wine. She placed them on the table and turned around. She gasped when she saw everything Luis had done in the room. Luis came from his hiding place then. Tears welled in Sheridan's eyes, while Luis kneeled down on one knee in front of her.
"Sher, I wanna do this right this time. Ever since we met my life has been filled with a new light in life. A glow sort of. You make even the darkest things fun. I have always pictured getting married and, I am standing at the front of the church but when the bride starts down the aisle, I can never see her face. Now I can see a face, your face and you are glowing. Sheridan Katherine Crane, will you marry me and keep that glow glowing, and the light, shining?" With that he opened the little box that had been burning a hole in his suitcase since he bought it before they left Harmony. It was a thin gold band with a tiny diamond heart in the middle.
"Yes, Luis, yes, I will keep your light glowing" Sher answered excitedly. He slid the ring on her hand and stood up and pulled her into the most passionate kiss ever. The wine and cheesecake was forgotten in a scurrying to be with one another joined in body and soul. The spent the night, making love as fiancées, to wake in the morning feeling wonderful.
The next morning Sheridan woke up to the greatest feeling ever....being in the arms of her wonderful Fiancée. Luis was still sleeping, so she thought and decided to lie back down. When Luis felt her relax again in his arms and her slow, even breathing he got up and ordered room service for breakfast.
Sheridan awoke to the sound of a light knocking on the door. She rolled over and saw Luis clad only in a pair of black, rumpled, silk boxers, paying the bell hop some money and pushing in a cart of what she guessed was breakfast.
"Morning sleepy head...you sure were tired." Luis said sitting down next to her on the bed so the could cuddle.
"Well Mr. Lopez-Fitzgerald...you sure did keep me busy last night."
"Who me? Never." He chuckled, and got a playful slap on his smooth, bronze chest. "Breakfast is here, let's eat so we can keep moving, Sam told me that we have a beautiful ocean front property. He wanted it to feel as much like Harmony as possible."
"That's good. I miss everyone already but I can't wait to start planning our wedding!!" Sheridan exclaimed giddily.
"Me neither, baby, me neither."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Two hours later, after breakfast and a round of love making in the shower, Luis and Sheridan checked out of their hotel in Michigan. Again they were on their way to their new life. But just will that new life hold...with Sheridan's stalker hot on their tails?
To Be Continued...
Chapter 6:
Luis and Sheridan drove and drove until they finally reached their new home in Litton, Washington. Sheridan was so excited when they got there; it brightened this whole trip for him. The house was a white two story building. There was a wrap around porch that looked out into the water. Inside there was a kitchen with an island stove and sink, a den with a open window for peering out into the water, a living room with a stone fireplace, a dining room and a huge bathroom. Upstairs, there were three bedrooms each with their own connecting baths; the master bedroom containing a stone fireplace and a walk-on terrace, also there was a storage room at the end of the hall.
“Oh, Justin, I love it” Sheridan/Lily exclaimed.
“I am glad, Lily! Do you wanna go to the store and get some stuff to make this place look like our own?” Just then Sheridan’s mood changed. Her eyes welled up with tears and she looked at Luis. He walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her.
“Sweetie, what’s wrong? I thought you liked it here.”
“I…….I just didn’t think we would be here long enough to make this our home. I don’t wanna be here, I wanna be home with Ethan, and Gwen, and you mother. Lu….Justin, I miss them sooo much.” Sher was crying harder now and she stuck her head into his chest. He held her for a few moments and then he pulled back some, he picked her chin up so she was looking into his eyes.
“Sweetie, I don’t wanna be here long either but while we are here we need to make the best of it. I promise you Sam is working day and night to catch this guy. He is making sure that he is caught quickly. So what do you say we go out and get some stuff for this place? Then, we can find a nice place and we can go out for some dinner and dancing, then, maybe we’ll come back here for some dancing of out own. So, what do you say?” Luis said with a small grin.
“Well, how can I say no to that request? And, you right Sam is working as hard as he can be. We should just forget about all this and just pretend this is a great vacation for us.”
“Alright then, let’s get going!” Luis said. Sheridan grabbed her purse and they headed out to the car.
To Be Continued...