Chapters 11-16

“What?!” Liz exclaimed in total shock. “Brian, you've been here for… It's been so long I don't remember how long you've been here. You said it yourself, none of us will ever leave this island.”

“No. Which reminds me. If he or anyone ask if you've seen me the answer is no.” Brian pulled Liz into a hug and kissed her on the cheek. “Thanks for everything Liz. I'll be in touch.” Brian smiled and winked and then walked out the kitchen door. Liz stood there watching him as he left, wondering what on earth had him in such a state.

“What?” Sheridan asked. “Did you say Antonio?” Sheridan searched her thoughts. She'd heard the name Antonio in connection with Luis, but who was he? Sheridan heard Luis' voice in her head. He was talking about Martin? `Who's Martin?' She wondered as her mind fought to remember. `Martin… disappeared right after… my father…My brother Antonio disappeared right after my father… That's it! Antonio is Luis' brother!'

Luis ran for about 20 yards in an attempt to follow him and suddenly stopped. Damn it!” He swore standing there just watching the man disappear into the horizon. He turned and walked back to the kitchen door only to be greeted by a very confused Luis.

Luis shook his head sorrowfully. “I'm sure Sheridan,” he said. “I didn't recognize him last night, but there was something bugging me about him. I knew I knew him but couldn't place it. He never looked me in the eye, until just now. He knew the minute he did I recognized him. All this time Mama has been lighting candles for him and Papa and he runs away the first time he encounters one of us.” Luis felt his anger building.

“You don't know that Luis” Liz said. “I don't know what happened to make Brian… Antonio leave, but I've known that man for the last ten years and there's nothing cowardly about him.”

“Yeah, I would like to go after him” Luis said turning to face Sheridan directly, “but it's going to have to wait. There's something much more important that I have to do right now.”

“Right now I want nothing more than to marry you” he finished. Luis leaned in and firmly planted a kiss on her soft lips. “Nothing is more important than making you my wife.”

“Oh Luis” Sheridan sighed in complete contentment as she fell into his arms. “I love you more than anything in this world and want to become your wife.” She then pulled back a little and looked at him, staring directly into his soul. “But I remember how important your family is to you. The sooner you go after the brother, the better. We can get married as soon as you find him.”

Luis smiled and caressed her cheek. “Thank you for that, sweetheart” he said, “but Antonio can wait. “When I thought you'd died in the hurricane, I was torn up on the inside because I never had the chance to call you my wife. I was so sure we had all the time in the world do get married. I never dreamed something would happen like it did.”

“There is no reason for you to be sorry. The only reason I'm telling you this is so you'll understand where I'm coming from. No more waiting for me. No more taking life for granted, or our happiness for granted. I want more than anything in this world to be married to you. You are the love of my life, Sheridan Crane. You are my life and I just want to make it official. I want to be married to you forever, starting this very minute if possible.”

Sheridan couldn't believe how lucky she was to have this man in her life. He was without a doubt, the most wonderful human alive. “I love you Luis. I want to be married to you forever as well.”

“Not entirely” Sheridan admitted, “but I do remember my life with Luis and how much we both love each other.” Sheridan stared at Luis. She couldn't get the smile off her face when she realized in a few short minutes she was going to be his wife. “And you're going to have to start calling me Sheridan, Agent Freeman. The minute I say `I Do' I will no longer be Miss Crane.”

Sheridan looked around and when she saw a vase with the most beautiful red roses in it she'd ever seen, she knew exactly where she wanted to get married. “Luis, I know the perfect spot. The only problem is I don't know how to get there. The last time I was there I was blindfolded.”

“It's all right Luis” Sheridan smiled, knowing he was only trying to protect her. She turned to Liz. “Liz, you wouldn't happen to know how to get to the waterfall, would you?” Sheridan asked hopefully.

“Did the two of you dress this way on purpose?” Liz asked eyeing them curiously. “Because it looks to me like you dressed for a wedding. Both of you are wearing white linen and look sexy as hell.”

Luis grinned mischievously at Sheridan and gave her hand a gentle squeeze. Sheridan's smile was dazzling as she lost herself in Luis' adoring gaze. “Not consciously” was all Sheridan said. “Besides if I remember correctly Luis looks sexy in just about anything.”

“Actually that's you that looks sexy no matter what” Luis smirked. Luis noticed the rings on the table next to Sheridan and picked them up. He opened the boxes and smiled dreamily at the two shiny gold bands.

Liz gave Jimmy a stern look. “He's been here and left again she said, noticing Luis' head whip around as the mention of Brian. “We can talk about that later” Liz changed the subject quickly. “Right now there is a couple that desperately wants to get married.”

Hal pulled a clean handkerchief out of his pocket and placed the rings in them. “I'll guard them with my life” he told Luis. Hal smiled, but Luis knew he would indeed take good care of the rings.

Sheridan followed Liz into the kitchen and watched as Liz carefully pulled a box out from under the counter. Liz opened the box and it revealed an absolutely gorgeous wreath of tropical flowers. Sheridan was stunned. She carefully lifted the wreath out of the box and studied the delicate gift.

“Liz, I don't know what to say” Sheridan said. “It's breathtaking! It's absolutely perfect Liz!” Sheridan's face shone with pure joy. Liz was very pleased that Sheridan liked her gift.

“Here, let me help you with that” Liz offered. She took the wreath of flowers from Sheridan and placed it gingerly on her head. Sheridan couldn't get the silly grin off her face.

“It'll knock his socks off, that's for sure” Liz smiled. “Now if you're finished admiring your flowers I think there is a very handsome gentleman waiting to become your husband and somehow I bet he's rather impatient.”

Brian sat on the edge of the stream and mindlessly tossed small stones into the running water. It was late afternoon and no boats were leaving the harbor until the next morning. “Just my luck” Brian said as he threw a stone especially hard into the rushing stream, “National fix your boat up day. Who ever heard of such a thing? Those damned card companies are shameless.” Brian chuckled remembering the poor old guy that'd told him that in all seriousness at the dock earlier. “And that guy acted like I was the weird one.”

He continued aimlessly trying to skip stones, which was futile in the water that was rushing by, but it helped pass the time. Tired of the position he was sitting in, he stood up and brushed himself off wandering in a direction closer to the waterfalls.

Brian passed a rosebush on his way towards the falls and stopped for a moment. He picked a flower and held it to his nostrils, inhaling its scent. “If only things could have been different Diana,” he whispered into the gentle breeze. He continued his journey until he heard several twigs snap. He stood motionless and just listened.

“Right this way, gentlemen,” Doc directed. Luis, Jimmy and Hal followed Doc through the woods. They could see there was a clearing ahead. “We'll be at the waterfalls in just a minute. Wait until you see it. The falls are breathtaking. There's a large pool at the base of the falls and then the water runs into a stream that actually leads all the way to the ocean. On this side of the waterfalls is a white sandy beach with native island flora growing wild…”

Brian heard enough. “Damn!” He spat out quietly. “I can't let them find me here.” Quietly Brian ran down the beach as fast as he could. He finally found his way into the woods along side the stream. “Good, they won't see me here” he said to himself. “I can make it all the way back to the beach this way.” He began walking towards the beach, but something was bothering him and he stopped. “Brian, what are you doing? Get out of here!” He scolded himself. Still, curiosity got the best of him and he turned back. For some reason, Brian had to know who Doc was taking to the falls. Brian crept along the path and stopped a few feet short of the edge of the woods and waited for Doc's party to arrive.

“Wow!” Was all Luis could say when they arrived on the beach by the waterfall. The sound of the rushing waters was relaxing and the scent emitted from the wondrous variety of tropical plants was heavenly. “No wonder Sheridan wanted to get married in this spot. It's phenomenal. How did she ever find it?”

“Brian took her here the night you arrived, actually I believe it was a rose from that bush over there that triggered her first memory” Doc explained nodding towards the rose bush.

Luis spotted the roses and smiled. He walked over to the bush and picked the most beautiful red rose he could find and carefully removed its thorns. Luis inhaled the scent of the rose and memories of Sheridan flooded his head. He stood there with a goofy grin on his face wanting nothing more than to marry the woman he loved so much.

Hal felt an overwhelming urge to sneeze and before he could do anything about it, he did. “Ahchoo!” He sneezed loudly. When he raised his hands in the air to cover his mouth the rings went sailing into the air landing in the deep sand below.

Luis turned and his jaw dropped when he saw Sheridan. She looked absolutely radiant in her white linen dress and the exquisite wreath of flowers adorning her golden locks. Every time he saw her he swore she couldn't get more beautiful and he was always surprised that she did. Right now she looked more beautiful than anyone had a right to look. His mouth formed his signature grin as he stared deeply into her sparkling blue eyes. Sheridan felt exactly the same way when she looked at Luis. She was happier right now than she'd ever been in her entire life.

Every one was in agreement they should get started and Jimmy directed Luis and Hal to a spot in front of the water fall where Luis and Sheridan would take their vows. He then instructed Liz, Doc and Sheridan where to stand as well.

Jimmy, who was prepared, pulled a small cassette player out and Wedding March began to play. Liz walked down the beach towards Luis and Hal and turned to watch Sheridan walk with Doc towards Luis. The moment Doc gave Luis Sheridan's hand, he presented her with the perfect rose he'd picked earlier. She smiled brilliantly at him, her eyes filled with love and devotion for the one man on earth she loved completely and loved her in return. The two never took their eyes off one another even when they heard Jimmy begin.

“Hell, I would in a heart beat if it was me standing there next to her” Brian mumbled. “Why the hell is this happening to me? Why now after all this time?” He looked up in time to hear Jimmy say “With the power invested in me I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride…”

Brian grimaced as Luis leaned in and kissed the woman of his dreams passionately on the lips. What made it worse was watching Diana kiss him back with a passion he hoped she'd one day hold for him. “Damn it” he muttered. “Once again I've lost everyone I care about. First my father, then my family and now Diana.” He stared at the happy couple for a few more minutes as they accepted heartfelt congratulations from those gathered with them and then turned to leave. “No more” he said bitterly as he silently crept away. “I want my life back.”

“Congratulations Luis” Hal grinned, shaking his hand firmly. “And congratulations to you as well, Mrs. Lopez Fitzgerald.” Hal raised his brow, his eyes smiling at Sheridan.

“Liz, this is fantastic!” Sheridan marveled when they arrived back at the hotel. “You really didn't have to go to all this trouble.” Liz had persuaded several of the guests to decorate the outdoor patio in their absence with fresh cut flowers, several tables were set with her best china and there was even a small cake with a bride and groom decorating it that said “Congratulations Sheridan and Luis.”

For the next hour or so the happy couple mingled with their few but special guests and enjoyed themselves completely. Their wedding was far from the one planned by Luis' sister back in Harmony several months earlier but to them it was absolutely perfect because it now meant they were husband and wife.

“I love you Luis” she said with deep emotion, pulling back for a moment and gazing deeply into his dark eyes. Neither one of them noticed they were being watched, they only had eyes for each other at the moment. Had it not been for the constant clinking of glasses they could have remained lost in each other's gaze for all eternity. They broke their trance and turned their heads to where Doc and Liz were standing with sheepish grins on their faces.

Luis wrapped his arms around Sheridan snugly and pulled her towards him capturing her lips in a very steamy kiss. Doc and Liz stood there laughing for a moment as they watched Sheridan, but it didn't take long before they both began to feel slightly uncomfortable, almost as if they were intruding on a private moment. Hal had walked away when they started with a smirk on his face. He knew by the looks on their faces what they were going to do.

“I know we have Luis” Sheridan replied. “But we haven't made love as husband and wife and I have a feeling that this is going to be a night neither one of us is going to forget.”

“You're right about that baby” he smiled, kissing her lightly on the lips. “Making love to you is always an unforgettable experience.” He took her hand and they slowly walked over to Liz and Doc.

“Of course you do” Liz smirked. “After all, it is your honeymoon isn't it?” Liz suddenly remembered something and stopped Luis and Sheridan before they walked off. “I just remembered. I moved both of you into our honeymoon suite. It's room 12. I think you'll like it.”

Liz quietly humming the wedding march, couldn't keep her mind off how happy Sheridan and Luis were to be man and wife, as she cleaned up the outdoor café. Never before had she shed a tear at a wedding, but this time was different. For the first time in all her years she believed the couple she witnessed marry were truly destined to be together and the love they shared with each other was the most pure sacred love she'd ever witnessed. A mournful smile appeared on the corner of her mouth as she wondered if one day she might be blessed enough to have someone in her life to love half as much as Sheridan loved her husband and have that love returned.

“I'm so happy for those two” she said to herself, wiping some crumbs off one of the tables. She leaned over and blew out the candle in the center and nearly jumped out of her skin when she felt a hand clamp over her mouth and pull her backwards.

Liz took a deep breath and with her hands flexed firmly on her hips she stared intensely at Brian. “All right” she said in a much softer tone, yet one that demanded an answer. “Brian, tell me what the hell you think you were doing? And what is going on with you? Is it true? Are you Luis' brother?”

“Why did you run Brian?” Liz asked. “You haven't seen your brother in all these years and first chance you get you run. What could you possible have done that was so terrible that you'd run away like that?”

“I have my reasons Liz” Brian said. “But as you can see, I've come back. I'm sick of running Liz. I've lost the woman I love. I lost my family years ago. I can't have Diana back but I might be able to get my family back. I'm here to see my brother.”

“Brian… I mean Antonio” Liz shook her head trying to get used to his new name, “You fell in love with Diana. Diana doesn't exist anymore. She remembers her past, she remembers the man she loved so deeply and they are now together. She was never yours. She and your brother are bonded together in a way I've never seen. She'll never love anyone but him no matter how many bouts of amnesia she has.” It hurt Liz deeply to be so blunt to Brian but she felt he needed someone to spell out the facts of life to him.

“Brian, I'm sorry” Liz apologized, her dark eyes filled with regret. She held his hand, trying to reassure his she was first and foremost his friend and she hated to see him hurting.

“I love you Luis Lopez Fitzgerald” Sheridan smiled, kissing Luis lightly on the cheek and then resting her head on his shoulder. Luis carried Sheridan into the suite and gently lowered her back to a standing position, her curvaceous body sliding against his muscular chest until her feet hit the ground.

“And I love you Sheridan Crane Lopez Fitzgerald” Luis replied softly. “God, do I love you.” Sheridan pulled her head back and caught Luis' gaze. Her heart lodged in her throat when she saw the look of complete love and devotion in his eyes.

“I can't believe how lucky I am to have you in my life” Sheridan said. “All my life I waited for you and I finally found you only to be separated by a terrible accident. I can't believe I almost lost you forever.” Tears began forming in Sheridan's eyes. They were a combination of pure joy and sadness of what almost was.

“Hey, don't cry sweetheart” Luis said, kissing her tears away. “There was a reason we're together now, you know that don't you? You and I were meant to be together for all eternity. That's why I found you. Everyone thought I was crazy coming down here but I had this feeling that I couldn't shake. We're connected in a way very few people are Sheridan. No matter what happens, you and I will always be together.”

“Sheridan, I promise you that nothing will ever come between us again. I'm not going to tell you that we won't have arguments or that your brother Julian might not try something to break us up like he did with the impostor scheme, but no matter what gets thrown at us we'll stay together because what we have is so special, no one on this earth can do anything to keep us from loving each other. And trust me when I say, I'm never letting you out of my sight again.”

Luis grinned wickedly and was pleased to see a large smile appear on Sheridan's angelic face. He leaned in to kiss her gently but Sheridan responded fervently, wrapping her arms tightly around him causing him to groan slightly.

“You have no idea how long I've waited to hear you say that” Luis replied with a boyish grin. He began kissing her cheek and trailed succulent kisses towards her shoulder. Sheridan cocked her head to the side, reveling in the sensations she was experiencing. She remembered these sensations only too well. Luis could cause her to feel things she was sure no one else in the world had ever experienced.

Luis hungrily worked his way back to Sheridan's mouth and she eagerly responded when his lips descended upon hers. What started out to be a sweet kiss had turned into a kiss filled with more passion and desire than either of them could remember. Without breaking their steamy kiss, Luis once again picked Sheridan up and carried her to the bed, gently placing her in the middle of the king size mattress. She scooted over and smiled seductively holding out her arms beckoning her husband to join her. He didn't hesitate and the newlyweds began to make love for the first time as husband and wife.

“Your coffee is superb” Hal smiled as he sipped carefully the steaming cup of Liz's special blend of arabica beans. “I can't think of a better way to start a morning than with a good cup of coffee and fresh air.”

“Can you blame them?” Liz asked in surprise. “Not only was last night their wedding night but the two of them just found each other a few days ago after a long separation. Luis thought Sheridan was dead and Sheridan didn't even remember who she was.”

Brian nodded and walked over to the French doors, opening them. “Hey Doc!” He shouted. “I need you out here on the double!” Brian walked away from the doors and back to the bar and poured himself a cup of coffee. Hal looked on with great curiosity wondering what Brian was planning.

“I was planning on it Doc” Brian said, a determination in his voice neither Doc nor Liz had ever heard. “But I changed my mind. I'm sick of fishing and I'm sick of fish. As a matter of fact I'm sick of this gorgeous weather we have here right now. For crying out loud, it's practically winter and we're all running around with shorts on.”

“What's going on?” Luis asked as he and Sheridan arrived, both dressed in shorts and t-shirts. Luis held his arm protectively around Sheridan's shoulder and she fell comfortably into his embrace. Brian noticed the closeness of the two but was determined to put his feelings out of his head for the moment. Liz was right about one very important thing when she talked to him last night. She'd told him that Diana didn't exist anymore and she was right. The woman married to his brother wasn't Diana, she was Sheridan Crane… Sheridan Lopez Fitzgerald.

“Hold it Luis” Antonio said firmly, holding his hand up to emphasize his point. “I know exactly what I've done. I know you had to sacrifice your life, your happiness for the family, to keep Mama and the others together.”

“Look, Luis, you and I are brothers and we were friends once as well. I know I ran away and maybe I shouldn't have, but at the time I didn't think I had any other option. I took off FOR the good of our family.”

“For the good of our family?” Luis repeated in disbelief. “Papa disappears leaving Mama alone to raise five children. You were the oldest and should have been there to help Mama. After you left Mama had to send Paloma to Aunt Maria's because she couldn't afford to feed all of us. Do you have any idea what that did to her? Not only did she lose her husband and first born son but had to send her youngest daughter away as well. What reason could you possible have that's good enough to make up for all the pain Mama and the family went through?”

“What Antonio? Were you a coward? You couldn't face the responsibilities? Or was it that you never wanted to be part of the family in the first place and Papa's disappearance gave you the opportunity to leave?”

Antonio took a deep breath and looked into Luis' eyes, which held more contempt at the moment than Antonio thought he could handle. He was beginning to wonder if he was making the right choice. `It's too late to change my mind' he thought. “Luis, I left Harmony…” he paused for a moment knowing as soon as he finished his sentence he was committed to telling Luis everything that had happened. He held Luis' intense stare and finished. “…to prevent Mama from going to prison.”

Luis couldn't believe what he was hearing. Antonio was accusing his mother of doing something that could warrant her going to prison? This was crazy. “That does it!” Luis bellowed, breaking free of Sheridan's embrace and taking several steps towards his brother, preparing himself to punch his lights out. “How dare you speak about our mother like that! She is the kindest most loving and compassionate woman I know and accusing her of doing something that could put her in prison… Damn you Antonio!” Luis took another step towards his brother.

“Luis! Luis!” Sheridan yelled as she ran up to her husband and grabbed his arm, pulling him back slightly. Luis turned and faced Sheridan, the anger within him curbing slightly.

“Sheridan…” he started to explain but was cut off by his bride. Antonio stood there waiting to see what Luis would do next while Hal, Doc and Liz remained stunned and wondered what his mother could possibly have done.

“Luis look, you told me before you had no idea why your brother left and you wanted to find him to get answers. This is your chance. Your brother is right here in front of you and is willing to tell you why he left your family. I don't know what went on all those years ago but I have had the opportunity to get to know Antonio a little over the past few weeks…” Sheridan glanced over at Antonio and gave him a brief smile. “I didn't know he was your brother but he's not a bad person Luis. In fact, he's a lot like you. So why don't you let him explain what he said. I'm sure your mother didn't do anything wrong.”

“This is a long story” Brian emphasized and somewhat confusing so why don't we all grab a cup of Liz's wonderful coffee, sit down and I'll tell you exactly why I left Harmony.”

“I still blame the Cranes for Papa's disappearance” Luis exclaimed heatedly. Sheridan gently rubbed Luis' arm in an effort to calm him. Luis heaved a sigh and relaxed slightly. Antonio was amazed at the effect Sheridan had on his brother, being able to keep him calm and rational. He shook his head and continued.

“I decided I was going to find out what happened to Papa if it was the last thing I did” Antonio said, his mind drifting further and further back to that moment in the past. “I decided I'd keep an eye on them. The old man wasn't very visible so I figured I'd keep tabs on his number one flunky…”

“Exactly, Julian. Everyone in Harmony knew that Julian only did what Alistair wanted so I believed that Julian knew exactly what happened to Papa. I followed him for a couple of weeks and all I managed to find were a couple of “love nests” he kept around town and I watched him threaten some of the workers at the cannery. Nice guy that Julian.” Brian shook his head in disgust while Sheridan fidgeted slightly in her seat. She knew her brother was one of the most despicable men around, but the fact was he was still her brother. Luis sensed her discomfort and rubbed her back gently in lazy circles. Sheridan stole a quick glance and smiled slightly before turning her attention back to Antonio. Doc, Liz and Hal hung on every word Brian uttered, patiently waiting for him to continue.

“Even though I didn't see Julian doing anything other than making an annoyance and a fool out of himself, I was sure eventually he'd slip up and I'd find out something.” Brian paused for a moment as he brought to mind what happened next; the scene that changed his life, as he knew it. “Exactly two weeks after Papa disappeared I was following Julian like I'd done every day and ended up at the wharf. At first I thought he was going to hassle the cannery workers again, but this time he walked right past the cannery and walked over to one of the boats docked there. It was almost dark when he met the guy and I couldn't get a very good look at him, but I had a real bad feeling. I knew I was about to find out what happened to Papa. So as soon as Julian went inside the cabin, I quietly crept onto the boat and hid in a place where I could hear everything that was going on.”

“Yes sir Mr. Crane” the burly man with the black knit hat said gladly. The man rubbed his large calloused hands together in anticipation of his payoff. “The boat exploded and there were no survivors.”

“Well, no sir I don't have the bodies” the man explained quickly. “They were blown up with the boat. But the Bermuda police investigated the explosion and were sure there were no survivors. They listed the explosion as accidental. There has been no sign of Fitzgerald or the woman in the week following the explosion so I have to assume they are dead.”

Antonio thought he was going to be physically ill. His worst nightmare was coming true; it looked like his father was truly dead. The anger built inside of him to a point he was filled with a furious rage. He couldn't keep still another second and like a shot Antonio jumped out of the shadows and flew down the stairs and confronted Julian Crane.

“You bastard!” Antonio shouted contemptuously, his arm tightening as he pulled it back to gather momentum before he hauled off and beat Julian to a pulp.. “You had my father killed, why you no good…” Antonio winced when he felt his arm being twisted by the goon Julian hired to kill his father.

“It's all right” Julian smirked. “He's just a punk kid. He can't hurt me. His threats mean nothing.” Begrudgingly the brawny man loosened his hold on Antonio's arm and Antonio immediately grabbed it with the hand on his other arm and began to massage it.

“That's what you think Crane” Antonio seethed. The pain in his arm helped him focus that much more on his anger towards Julian and Alistair. “I'm going to make sure you and your father pay for what you've done to my father… to my family. Damn you Crane! I'll make sure you pay.”

Julian laughed sardonically as he pulled a handkerchief out of his breast pocket and gently dabbed a few beads of sweat from his brow. “And just how do you plan on doing that? Hmm?” Julian asked in a placating manner.

Antonio's statement only caused Julian to laugh harder. “The naïveté of youth. Do you have any idea who you are dealing with my boy? I am Julian Crane and my father is Alistair Crane.”

“Alistair Crane is one of the most powerful men in the world” Julian began pompously. “And he's not about to let a little snot nosed half breed such as yourself get the better of him.” Julian smiled and began to wave his hand in a dismissive fashion. “You go tell the police what you think you heard tonight. You go and do that.”

Antonio hesitated for a moment. He knew Julian was up to something but he wasn't sure what. He decided he'd better leave now but before he could move one foot in the direction of the exit Julian continued.

“You know what? I've heard just about as much out of your filthy lying mouth as I want to hear” Antonio spat. He turned to leave when Julian stopped him with words he'd never forget.

“You see son” Julian said calmly, he began walking ever so slowly, two fingers covering his mouth as he formed his words. “The woman on the boat with your father was his mistress…”

“A shame, really” Julian continued talking and pacing, Antonio's outbursts not hampering his dialogue at all. “Such a fine family man Martin was, or at least that's what everyone thought. Unfortunately he had a weakness for beautiful women.” Julian smiled to himself, obviously thinking about his many conquests.

“That's bull and you know it! My father has never been unfaithful to my mother. He loves her, he loves his family!” Brian struggled to get free from the hold the powerful man had on him but it was no use. He wanted one shot at Julian, just one.

“I dare say Martin has had a string of women in the past but this one must have been something special. You see Antonio, your father embezzled funds from Crane Industries and was planning on skipping town. He was leaving your mother and that brood for a simpler more exciting life.”

“Unfortunately something went wrong with your father's plan. It seems that your mother must have had her suspicions because she followed them the night they left Harmony. She saw her husband, Martin Fitzgerald with another woman on his arm. Your mother was furious with him and God help anyone when Pilar's Latin temper flares up.” Julian scoffed and then flailed his arms around and imitated a woman's voice. “How dare he do this to me! Damn you Martin! You'll pay for what you've done to me and this family!” Julian held his arm out and pointed it as if pointing a gun and said “bang!” After his little performance, Julian doubled over in a fit of laughter which only caused Antonio to see red. He couldn't believe this was happening.

“No, your mother is going to pay Antonio Lo-life Fitzgerald” Julian said, his eyes dark with anger. “You didn't let me finish the story. Your mother killed your father, Antonio. She shot him and the other woman. She then hired someone to sail the boat out to sea and have it explode, thus leaving no trail.”

“No one will ever believe you” Antonio said. This whole thing was too far fetched for anyone to believe. Everyone in Harmony knew his father would never cheat on his mother never mind his mother killing anyone. She hated killing ants and spiders for crying out loud.

Julian chuckled. “You're underestimating the power of Alistair Crane. There are witnesses. Witnessed to your father's illicit affairs, proof he embezzled money from the Cranes and proof your mother shot and killed Martin and his lover.”

“I don't believe you. There's no way you can prove that. You can't prove something that never happened” Antonio said confidently. He tried to sound convincing but inside he had a sinking feeling Julian Crane could do exactly what he said he could do.

“Are you willing to take that chance Antonio?” Julian baited. He knew he had the smart mouthed kid right where he wanted him. “Are you willing to let your mother go to prison? Allow that hoard of rug rats you call siblings to believe that your mother killed your father and that he had an adulterous affair? My, what will the good people of Harmony think of the LoFitz clan then? Tsk tsk.” Julian shook his head as if realizing the shame that would come upon the Lopez Fitzgerald's.

Antonio sighed heavily. He knew Julian was right, as much as it pained him to admit it. He was defeated. A slow burning smile appeared at the corner of Julian's mouth. Julian motioned for his goon to release Antonio. He was no longer a threat. As he predicted, Antonio made no move to attack Julian. He was completely defeated.

“I think not” Julian retorted. “You'll never set foot in Harmony again, do you understand that? If I ever see your face in this town again I'll make sure those charges are brought against your mother. Murder is a capital offense and there is no statute of limitations.”

Antonio studied Julian's twisted features, memorizing them. He would never forget that man or this moment. He turned to leave and walked half way up the steps before he turned and said “One day Julian when you least expect it I'll come back and I'll prove what I heard here tonight. You remember that.” Without another word, Antonio disappeared into the night.

“I've never been back to Harmony since that night” Antonio confessed. He sighed heavily and stood up walking behind the counter and poured himself a glass of water, drinking thirstily from it, deliberately avoiding eye contact with anyone, especially his brother.

Luis sat there as if in a daze. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. Was it possible? Did Julian and Alistair Crane really have his father killed? Did his brother truly stumble upon the truth and sacrifice his life to prevent his mother from going to prison and allow the family to keep their good name? As much as Luis hated it, it made sense. He put nothing past Julian and Alistair Crane.

Sheridan rested her head against Luis' shoulder, a lone tear falling down her cheek. Her family was responsible for Martin's disappearance just as Luis had been convinced. Thought she didn't doubt them capable after everything she'd witnessed first hand, part of her still hoped and prayed there was some good in her father and brother. Obviously she was mistaken. Once again, her family had destroyed someone's life. In this case, they murdered Luis' father and another woman and sentenced his brother Antonio to a life without his family, not to mention the entire Lopez Fitzgerald family living all these years without their father, husband, brother and son. How could someone with the same blood coursing through their veins as she be so cruel?

Hal sat there and digested everything he heard. He'd heard stories about the Cranes for years but there was never anything linking them to a crime. He shook his head as he imagined how Antonio must have felt as a 16 year old boy who'd just lost his father and now was sentenced to losing the rest of his family. He furrowed his brow in deep contemplation going over the story in his mind piece by piece. `Could it be? Is that what happened?' He wondered.

Doc was intrigued. He always wondered how and why Brian ended up on St. Lisa's and now he knew. Right now though, he was more concerned about Liz and her reaction to all of this. Liz sat there is a state of shock. Catatonia would be a better description of her presence; unfortunately the only one who seemed to notice was Doc, as everyone else was lost in their own thoughts. Doc had an idea he knew what was wrong with Liz. They'd exchanged glances the first time they heard the name Martin mentioned, but decided it best to let her tell him when she was ready. Prying was against the rules on St. Lisa's.

Luis squeezed Sheridan's hand and then stood up. He slowly walked over to where his brother stood. He saw the pain and anguish in his eyes and knew for the first time how much it must have hurt his brother to leave his family, yet fully understanding why he felt he must. Luis tried to put himself in Antonio's position at the time and racking his brain decided he would have come to the same conclusion.

Antonio nodded. There was a lump in his throat as he fought off the tears that threatened heavily. He couldn't talk at the moment. Taking a deep breath to regain his composure, he finally answered his brother. “It was horrible Luis,” he said looking directly into his brother's sad eyes. “I had to leave my family, everyone I loved, all the while knowing that bastard killed Papa and I couldn't do a damned thing about it.” Antonio's voice was charged with deep emotion and the tears he tried so hard to hold back finally surfaced, as he stared into the compassionate eyes of the brother that had once idolized him. “I'm sorry Luis. I'm sorry for hurting you. I'm sorry for hurting Mama and the other kids and I'm sorry that I couldn't find a way to make Julian Crane pay for what he's done to our family. I let you all down.”

Luis inched closer to Antonio and extended his arms as a gesture of making peace with Antonio. Antonio readily accepted and the two brothers embraced, holding onto each other tightly, afraid the other was going to disappear if they let go. Sheridan watched their reunion, tears of happiness mixed with her tears of pain and sadness. This was definitely a bittersweet moment for all of them.

“We won't let that bastard get away with this Antonio” Luis assured him. “I've been looking for proof for years that Julian and Alistair were responsible for Papa's disappearance. This is it.”

“I don't know Luis” Antonio said thoughtfully. “I've gone over that in my head for years and I can't imagine why they would have killed him unless of course he saw or heard something he shouldn't have.”

“Yeah, I thought about that one too” Antonio answered. “I figure the reason I'm still alive is one of two things. One, I was just a dumb kid and Julian didn't think I was that big a threat or two, Julian doesn't have the killer instinct his old man does. Julian will carry out orders from his father but he won't initiate them on his own. He's nothing but Alistair's puppet.”

Hal sensed Luis' reluctance to say what he was thinking out loud. He knew Luis didn't want Sheridan to hear him say out loud that maybe her father and brother were responsible for the boat explosion that almost cost her her life. Antonio watched Luis and Hal's reactions and suddenly it hit him like a ton of bricks.

“Liz” Doc whispered in her ear. “It's time Liz. I know it's this is painful for you but I think they have a right to know.” Tears streamed down Liz's face but she still didn't move.

“Come on Liz” Doc urged. “You can put an end to this right now. I know this is all coming as a shock to you but if you do this now, you'll finally be free. Liz, you need to tell them.”

Sheridan walked over to Liz and bent down to talk to her at eye level. “Liz” Sheridan pleaded. “What's wrong? Something is terribly wrong, please if you have any idea can you please tell me?”

Liz looked up into Sheridan's innocent but frightened blue eyes and more tears streamed down her cheeks. `This can't be happening' she thought. `I thought I'd never have to relive this nightmare again.'

“Sheridan…” Luis began but was interrupted when Liz stood up and wiped away her tears. All eyes focused on Liz. Doc smiled slightly and placed a hand on her shoulder hoping to give her strength to continue.

“No Brian,” Liz explained. “I didn't know your father, at least not until that night.” Tears were streaming down Liz's cheeks as memories of that time in her life assaulted her.

“I didn't know he was your father!” Liz yelled yanking her arm from Antonio's grasp. “I didn't even know his last name until tonight. All I knew is he was a very kind man named Martin who saved my life.”

“Sit down everyone” Liz said, fighting to regain her composure. Luis found his wife who appeared as shocked as the rest of them and brought her back to their seats. He held her close as something told him he needed to be there to support her with whatever information Liz had for them. He chuckled inwardly when he wondered why he was worried about Sheridan and here he was the one who just found out his father truly was dead and the Cranes were responsible for it.

Antonio sat down as Liz asked but it was difficult. He couldn't believe what he was hearing; that a woman lived in the same hotel with for the last fifteen years was the same woman that was on the boat with his father when he died. Antonio searched his memory. According to the man Julian was talking to both Martin and the woman were both killed? If the woman, Liz wasn't killed then maybe it was possible Martin was still alive as well. Antonio suddenly straightened in his seat and stared at Liz hoping she'd give him some positive piece of information.

“How can you say that?” Sheridan asked. “You just found out your father is dead after all these years and that my family is responsible. How can you say everything will be all right?” A few tears began to trickle down Sheridan's cheek. She did everything she could to keep herself from completely breaking down.

Luis' words burned through to Sheridan's soul and she never felt more love for him than at that moment than ever before. “I love you” she murmured and buried her head in the crook of his neck for a moment. Luis just held her close, wanting her to know he was there for her and always would be.

Liz had been watching Sheridan for the last several minutes and just silently shook her head. “I can't do it Doc. I just can't do this” she whispered to him as she fought to get her breathing under control.

“Liz, I know you put most of this out of your mind until a few minutes ago and you're probably thinking if I could bury it that deep for so long once I can do it again, but it won't work that way. Your memories have resurfaced. And not only that but you have faces to go with them now. How are you going to live with that?”

“Look at her Doc? Look at all of them? Brian… excuse me, Antonio still thinks that his father might be still alive because I'm right here. And Luis thinks the Cranes tried to kill Sheridan the same way they killed his father.”

Doc nodded his head in agreement. “They probably did.” Liz grimaced and Doc turned her to face him and stared directly into her dark brown eyes. “Confession is good for the soul Liz. They all have a right to know.”

Liz stood there for a few moments gathering her thoughts. She watched Brian, Luis and then Sheridan and felt fresh tears cloud her vision. She choked them back and forced a pained smile before she began.

“Life's funny sometimes” Liz began. “A few days ago I was running this hotel like I have for the past ten years, doing nothing extraordinary with my life. Sheridan here was Diana, a woman without her memory and Antonio was Brian O'Leary, a man without a past, or at least a past that none of us ever pried into.”

“Sheridan, I think I kind of know how you must have felt to get your memory back, because right now I'm remembering something from my past. The difference is I didn't know I couldn't remember it. It wasn't a happy memory like yours of a lost love, but one that was so traumatic I buried it deep in the recesses of my mind… that is until this morning when it all came flooding back.”

Antonio and Luis both had sinking feelings that they weren't going to like what Liz had to say. Luis held Sheridan tightly to him both to comfort her and support him. Antonio took a deep breath and nodded to Liz urging her to continue.

“Gunshot?” Liz asked in confusion. She then remembered the story Julian had told Antonio. “No, he wasn't shot. The man that was shot was my boss, Alexander Barrett Smith.”

“I see” Luis said in a tone barely audible. He held his head up high and tried to stop the tears from falling, but couldn't. Even though he'd known it was a possibility all these years that his father was dead, hearing Liz actually say Martin was dead felt like a hot knife being plummeted into his chest. Sheridan just held him close to her. Antonio as well felt something with Liz's admission. He'd believed his father dead all these years but secretly hoped that somehow he'd survived. When he found out a few minutes earlier Liz was the woman on the boat his hopes soared only to have them dashed once again.

“Tell us what happened Liz” Antonio said, choking on his own words. He glanced over at Luis and knew he was feeling the same pain at the moment. “How did our father die?”

Liz smiled sorrowfully at the two brothers. “Your father was a wonderful and caring man,” she said, thinking back to the time she spent with Martin preceding his death. “He and I were thrown together in the worst of possible situations. Martin was a real hero you know. He didn't know me, anything about me and yet he did everything he could to keep me from drowning after the boat explosion, even though he was barely holding on himself.”

“Liz, what can you tell us about the explosion?” Antonio asked. He's heard Julian and his goon talking about a boat explosion somewhere off the coast of Bermuda but knew nothing else.

“I don't remember much” Liz said. “One minute I was in the Crane mansion with my boss on business and the next thing I knew I felt a searing pain in the back of my head, like someone hit me over the head. I must have blacked out because I don't remember anything else until I heard a man's voice telling me we had to get off the boat.”

“Miss! Miss!” a man's voice called to her while gently shaking her shoulder. “Please wake up. We have to get out of here. I think this boat is rigged. It's going to explode any minute.”

“Where am I? Who are you?” Liz asked, grimacing in pain as she carefully rubbed the egg on the back of her scalp. “Wait, I know you” she said, looking at Martin through bleary eyes. “I met you earlier in the foyer. You're Martin?”

“I… I think so” Liz said hesitantly. She cursed silently due to the pain she was feeling and got to her feet with Martin's help. “Thank you” she said once she was standing on her own. “What's going on here? Where are we and how did we get here?”

“You must have taken quite a blow to the head” Martin said anxiously as he searched the cabin for any sign of an explosive device. “We're on a boat in the middle of the Atlantic, somewhere near Bermuda I think. As I was coming to I think I heard the men who left us here talking about a bomb.

“If I heard correctly that's what Alistair Crane has planned for us,” Martin said as his search for a way out of the cabin became furious. He was almost positive the bomb was in the cabin with them, thus they would catch the brunt of the explosion, which was exactly what Alistair Crane wanted.

“It would seem that you and I have one thing in common Miss” Martin announced. “We both have Alistair Crane as an enemy and it would appear he takes care of his enemies permanently.”

“After a few minutes, Liz spotted a small black box with flashing numbers. “Martin, look!” She screamed, pointing to the box which was located right behind the sofa bed. Martin ran over to the area where Liz located the device and took a long hard look at it.

“Damn! We have three minutes to get the hell out of here.” Instinctively he ran to the cabin door which was barricaded shut from the outside. Martin rammed it several times and the only thing he managed to do was bruise his shoulder.

Martin glanced around and suddenly was struck with an idea. He ran over to a high backed metal bar stool near the galley and picked it up carrying it over to the cabin door. He began smashing the wooden door with strength he didn't know he possessed.

Liz anxiously watched him as he continuously pummeled the door, glancing every few seconds over at the timer on the detonator watching the seconds count down. “Hurry, please!” She shouted when she saw the final sixty seconds begin.

The top half of the door finally cracked and with another few blows he'd managed to knock out a piece of the upper part of the door. He was relieved when he noticed it was only a pair of oars wedged against the handle preventing them from opening it earlier. He'd been afraid their captors might have booby trapped that door as well. “Come here!” He yelled. Liz ran to him and Martin picked Liz up and pushed her through the opening. “Jump! Get off the boat. Swim as far away from it as you can. I'll be right behind you.” Immediately Liz ran to the rail and dove off the boat swimming as fast as she could. She'd never been a strong swimmer, but the adrenalin coursing through her veins gave her an ability she'd never known.

Liz felt her entire body shake violently from the force of the explosion and soon, fiery debris was falling all around her. She struggled to stay afloat amidst the wreckage, but felt herself start to succumb. The beating she was taking from the flying remains of the boat and the thick black smoke from the fire were too overwhelming and she finally gave into the darkness.

“I think I can explain that” Doc offered, standing up and walking over to Liz's side. Liz smiled gratefully at Doc. She was more than willing to let him take over as reliving this nightmare was definitely taking its toll on her.

“As all of you know, St. Lisa's isn't the most populous island in the area” Doc began, “and fifteen years ago it was barely inhabited. The hotel that Liz now runs had been closed for years.” Doc paused, recalling the events.

“It was dark, midnight actually and I was outside charting unusual stellar activity. If memory serves, several constellations were being reformatted during that time. The Corellian elders advised me…”

“What? Oh, of course” Doc grinned sheepishly. He cleared his throat and continued. “As I was saying it was dark and I was looking through my telescope when I saw a great burst of light. At first I thought it had something to do with the stars but when I glanced out at sea I saw it was an explosion.”

“I immediately investigated and found there were two people injured by the explosion, Liz here” Doc nodded towards Liz “and a man, Martin. Martin was conscious when I found the two of them in the water and managed to tell me his name. He wouldn't let me help him until he was sure Liz was safely aboard my boat. Even in his dire condition he was thinking about others first. He passed out the minute I got him onto my boat.”

“As soon as I got to shore, I brought the two of them to my cottage and worked on them. Liz only had superficial cuts and scratches and regained consciousness before too long. Martin on the other hand was badly hurt. He had severe internal injuries and there was nothing I could do for him at that point except keep him comfortable.”

“Liz was pretty dazed when she woke up and I told her that Martin saved her life. She was amazed, since she barely knew him and was devastated when I told her there was nothing I could do for him. Liz sat by Martin's side from that moment and stayed with him right up until the end. She briefly told me how they met and how they managed to be on board a boat that was rigged to explode.”

“Your father died a hero” Liz smiled at both Antonio and Luis, tears in her eyes. “He never gave up and saved my life. I would have drowned after the explosion if it hadn't been for him.”

“He did for a short time,” Liz said. “Right before he died, he opened his eyes. I thought for a minute he was going to pull through…” Liz became choked up and couldn't continue.

Liz nodded, the tears really falling down her cheeks now. “He did. He told me he was glad I was all right. I could tell he was in a lot of pain and told him to save his strength, but he didn't listen. He wanted me to write a letter for him, a letter to his wife and children. He told me that he'd endure twice the pain he was in if he could spare his family the pain they would go through. He said they had no idea where he was and he needed to tell them what happened to him.”

“I know Luis” Liz said. “Martin was getting weaker by the minute and lapsed into unconsciousness before he could finish giving me your mother's address. I didn't even know his last name or else I could have tried to track down his wife. I was hoping he'd come to again so I could address the letter, but he never did. He died shortly afterwards.”

Antonio nodded and led his brother and the others to a small clearing several hundred yards from a small abandoned cottage on the other side of the island. In the clearing they found a simple wooden cross, surrounded by beautiful wild flowers. On the cross read the simple epitaph “Our friend Martin.”

There was something about seeing the small grave that brought a sense of reality crashing down for the two Lopez Fitzgerald boys. Both knew in their hearts that it was their father that laid beneath the cross and both knew now more than ever they would make Alistair and Julian Crane pay for what they'd done to their family.

After a few moments of silent prayer at Martin's grave Luis gathered his strength and spoke. “I want to know everything Liz. I want to know why you were on that boat. I want to know why you never went back and I want to know why my father was killed by those bastards.”

Liz brought the solemn group back to the outdoor café at the hotel and served them some fresh coffee and muffins as she gathered her thoughts about the events of that night. So much had happened since that night to all of them and yet nothing had changed. She knew as soon as she shared her story with them, all of their lives would change forever.

“Tell us what happened Liz” Antonio finally said. “Why did the Cranes want my father dead? Why did they want you dead for that matter? What the hell happened to cause all of this?”

Liz's eyes pleaded with Antonio. She didn't want to do this, not this way. She then turned her gaze to Sheridan who was wrapped tightly in her husband's arms. “I'm so sorry Sheridan. It wasn't supposed to happen this way.” She shook her head sadly.

Sheridan had had this feeling all along this involved her yet she didn't know why. “Liz, if this involves me I need to know. I have the right to know” she said. Suddenly her heart began pounding and a sharp pain shot through her head causing her to double over grabbing the sides of her face in pain.

For a brief moment Sheridan saw Liz in her mind's eye, but it was a much younger Liz and she wasn't on the island, she was in the Crane living room. She could almost hear her screaming and the look on her face was shear terror. As quickly as the pain came, it was gone and so was Sheridan's memory.

“We've met before Liz” Sheridan announced in a near panic. “Why haven't I remembered this before? It was at the Crane Estate… I was a little girl.” Luis looked at Sheridan with a shocked expression, as did Antonio.

Liz nodded. “As I said before I was a law student interning with Alexander Barrett Smith. Alex was a great man” Liz smiled, her memories of the elder gentleman quite fond. He was a member of the law firm Barrett, Brice and Nooney, located in Cambridge. They specialized in family law, you know, adoptions, custody, trust funds and the like. I was in my last year at Harvard and considered myself very lucky to have been chosen by their firm. Their reputation was second to none.”

“On the first Thursday in November I went into the office like I always did and everything was the same as it usually was. I spent the first hour studying the new cases that had compiled during the week when Alex received a call he had a client in the outer office waiting to see him. I put away my folders and joined Alex at his desk just before his client walked inside.”

“If you don't ask, I won't have to lie” Stuart said solemnly. “It's legitimate though. It's verified by two physicians and the head of the lab at Harmony Hospital. This along with the letter in my possession and the will which is a matter of public record should be adequate, shouldn't it?”

Alex studied the document for a moment and slowly began to nod his head. “Yes, this definitely will stand up in court.” He then looked up at Stuart, noticing the anticipation in his eyes and frowned. “Stuart, are you sure you want to go through with this? I realize it's in everyone's best interest and you did make a death bed promise to …”

“He doesn't have a leg to stand on now. He wouldn't do what was right at the time and I didn't have any proof. Without that proof I could do nothing but sit back and watch him continue his manipulations but I now have the proof and I plan to use it.”

Liz was curious as to what this was all about. She'd never seen her boss so upset about a case before. Being from Harmony Liz had heard the name Alistair Crane before and knew he was ruthless, but couldn't imagine he was that bad, She remained silent, knowing her boss was in deep thought.

“Stuart left the office and I noticed a change in Alex immediately. He wasn't his normal self for the rest of the day,” Liz remembered. She sighed heavily and paused for a moment.

All eyes were fixed on Liz. Each of them wondered exactly what it was she and her boss Alex were going to the Crane Mansion to do but thought it best not to disturb Liz at this point. Liz appeared to be in her own little world as she remembered the events from her past.

“The next day, Alex and I left early and headed for Harmony. We had no traffic problems and were there in no time. The problem was when we arrived at the Crane mansion we were informed that Alistair Crane wasn't home and wasn't expected back until very late that night. Alex wanted to go back thinking that I had classes the next day but the next day was Saturday. I told him if he wanted to wait, that was fine with me. My family lived in Harmony and I was sure they'd be happy to see me. I gave Alex my family's home phone number and told him I'd meet him whenever he wanted. He said he was going to visit his old law partner and gave me the phone number if I needed him. He assured me they would know where he was if he wasn't there. He dropped me off at home and I spent the next few hours with my family.”

Liz was becoming increasingly pale and decided she needed a drink of water. She poured herself a glass and drank it down, all the while her mind focused on the events of the next few hours of that night.

Doc, who had heard this story once before years ago placed a hand on Liz's shoulder and smiled slightly when she turned in an attempt to give her strength to finish. Liz feigned a small smile in return and heaved a sigh, gathering her wits in an attempt to continue her tale. Luis placed a protective arm around Sheridan's waist as she was becoming increasingly agitated. She didn't know why, but she had the feeling her entire life was about to make a tail spin. Antonio patiently waited for Liz to continue and Hal listened intently. He had a feeling soon he would be given information he needed to finally bring down the mighty Cranes.

“I'd just finished dinner with my family” Liz said, continuing her story when the phone rang. It was Alex. He asked me to meet him at the Book Café and said we'd go over to the Crane Mansion. I told him I would, said good bye to my family promising them I'd be in touch soon” Liz became very emotional talking about her promise to her family. She fought back her tears and continued.

“I met Alex at the Book Café and he briefed me on the reason we were in Harmony. I was rather surprised since he'd done that earlier in the day. I could tell he was extremely nervous about all of this, so I didn't say anything I just listened. It was apparent that Alex was afraid of Alistair Crane and it now being nightfall, he appeared more anxious than before. My job was just to be there and listen. He didn't want me to say anything.”

“Pilar is one of the bright stars in this den of thieves” Alex whispered to Liz when she was out of sight. “She treats Sheridan as if she were her own daughter. It's the only reason Stuart hasn't gone mad these past few years.

Alex and Liz quietly waited to be announced to the head of the household. Neither said anything but they were both surprised at how quiet the large house was, Liz especially. She'd never been in a mansion before and didn't know what to expect, but this certainly wasn't it. As she soaked in her vast surroundings, her thoughts were interrupted when a young girl's cried of joy were heard.

“Sheridan my dear!” Alex grinned, pleased she at least looked the picture of health. He held his arms open in a welcoming fashion as Sheridan flew down the grand staircase and jumped happily into his arms.

“How are you Sheridan?” Alex asked, crouching down so he could look at the young girl at eye level. His heart nearly broke in two when he saw the sadness behind those brilliant blue eyes of hers.

“Really?” Alex pressed in a non-threatening manner. Sheridan stared back at her cousin and looked like she was about to say something when approaching footsteps interrupted them. Sheridan immediately jumped back in horror, acting as if she'd been burned. Alex was taken aback at her reaction and then of the relief that spread over her face when she saw who was standing there.

“This is my cousin Alex. Alexander Barrett Smith” Sheridan said proudly. She then smiled at Liz. “I'm sorry ma'am, but I don't know your name.” Sheridan blushed in embarrassment.

“It's very nice to meet you Mr. Smith” Martin returned. “And you as well Liz.” Liz couldn't help but smile. There was something so pleasant about Martin's grin and the twinkle in his eyes warmed her heart.

“Martin” A voice called in an eerily calm voice from inside the living room. Martin's smiling features immediately dulled, as did everyone else in the foyer. Sheridan stiffened at the sound of her father's voice, her normally rosy cheeks now white as a sheet. Alex cringed both from Sheridan's reaction to his cousin's husband as well as the fact he was now about to meet with Alistair Crane for the first time in several years and Alistair wasn't going to like the subject matter, not one bit. Liz had never met the famous Crane, but she gauged the reactions of the others and had an idea she wasn't going to enjoy this meeting.

“Good” he smiled. “Now why don't you go find that lovely wife of yours and take her home. I'll get back to you on that other matter. Of that you can be assured.” Alistair smiled broadly, a smile that sent chills up Martin's spine.

“Yes Father” Sheridan answered robotically. She was used to being ushered out of the room anytime company was around. She looked longingly at Alex and Liz and then quietly retreated to her room.

When Sheridan was safely out of ear shot, Alistair turned to his unwanted guest and smiled. His eyes were cold and almost lifeless, reminding Liz and Alex of a shark's eyes right before he attacks his prey . “Well, well, well” Alistair said, sizing up his guests, wondering what had brought his dead wife's cousin to see him after all these years. He focused his attention on the beautiful woman with him and wondered why Alex had brought her. He was intrigued. “What brings you to Harmony?”

Alistair's eyes narrowed as he scrutinized the man before him. He saw a servant passing by out of the corner of his eye and motioned for Alex and Liz to follow him into the living room. Liz swallowed hard, the cold stare of the head of the Crane dynasty leaving a sick feeling in the pit of her stomach.

Alistair closed the double doors of the living room and when she heard the clank of the lock sliding in place, Liz had an impending feeling of doom come over her and didn't quite know how to stop it. She decided it best to deal with it, knowing in a short while she and Alex would be out of there and she at least would never be returning. As thoughts of how cold Alistair Crane was invaded her thoughts, she couldn't help but feel sorry for the beautiful little girl she'd met earlier. She couldn't have been more than twelve and to live under this man's tyranny must have been horrible.

Alistair closed his eyes and took a deep breath fighting to keep his temper under control. “If you'll excuse me for a moment? That's my son, Julian.” Alex and Liz acknowledged him and Alistair walked over to the double doors opening them to see a frazzled Julian Crane standing there. He whispered something to his father in an excited manner. Alistair stood there for a moment and contemplated what Julian had told him before turning and addressing his guests.

“I apologize for the inconvenience, but my son has just informed me of a pressing matter that can not wait. I promise I won't be long.” Alistair feigned a smile and closed the doors behind him leaving a slightly relieved Alex and Liz.

Everyone was absolutely riveted to their seats listening to Liz's recollection of the events thus far that night. Sheridan appeared to be in shock by what she was hearing and Luis turned to her to make sure she was all right.

She shook her head several times in disbelief. “I remember” she said. “I remember that night.” She looked at Liz and nodded. “Liz, I remember meeting you with Alex in the foyer that night. I'd forgotten Alex even existed until right now? How is that possible?”

“But Luis, how could I forget Alex ever existed?” She asked excitedly. “He was my mother's cousin. Mother and he were very close while she was alive. It's almost as if the memory were erased from my mind.”

Sheridan thought for a moment. “I remember being very upset when Father dismissed me to my room” she said, her mind searching for the memory. “I hadn't seen Alex since shortly after mother died and I wanted to talk to him. I decided that Father would take him into his library since that's where he conducted most of his business so I snuck in there before Father had a chance to bring them there. I was waiting for what seemed like eternity and had just about given up when I heard the library door open. I remember being very disappointed when I heard Julian and my father, but I couldn't make my presence known or Father would have punished me.”

“I was wondering what Fitzgerald was talking about” Alistair said, shaking his head. “I never dreamed it was this. I thought when I told my son, heir to my empire to make sure those bribes never made it on the books he'd do it.”

“Father, you did say Martin gave you those books, didn't you?” Julian asked hopefully. “Isn't that why he brought them to your attention? He doesn't believe them, right?”

“That's right Julian, copies. Do you really believe that anyone, Martin Fitzgerald included is going to ignore what he's seen? The information he's seen could destroy us.”

Alistair glanced at his watch and then picked up the phone. “I don't know why I'm doing this for you Julian. You'll be the one going to the federal pen, not me.” Alistair dialed a number and waited for the other party to answer.

“Goodnight” Alistair said and promptly hung up the phone. “Now Julian, that matter will be dealt with in the morning. Right now I have another pressing matter waiting for me in the living room.” Without saying another word, Alistair left the library and Julian left a moment later.”

“Yeah, I remember it” Luis answered, He was only half paying attention to his brother at the moment as there was something nagging at him in the back of his mind, but he couldn't quite put his finger on what it was.

“Mama asked Papa who was on the phone and Papa told her it was Alistair Crane and they had a meeting in the morning. Mama was concerned, but Papa laughed it off and told her there was nothing to worry about.”

“That's right” Luis replied, the memory becoming clearer. “Mama couldn't help but be worried though. She then told Papa she saw Sheridan's cousin Alex at the mansion and she knew that Alistair hated Alex. She was worried about Sheridan.”

Sheridan moved uncomfortably in her seat. “Liz, could you continue with your story please? I'd like to hear what happens next. So much of this seems familiar somehow. I think if I hear more I might remember more of what happened that night.”

“All right” Liz agreed, ready to continue with her story. “Alex and I waited about fifteen or twenty minutes for Alistair to return. I don't know about Alex, but I was getting more nervous by the minute. I was grateful when one of the maids came in and offered us a drink. I wasn't much of a drinker at the time, but I needed one that night. Right after we were served our drinks, Alistair came back into the living room. This time he didn't close the door behind him and I remember feeling slightly at ease. That was definitely a big mistake.”

Alistair opened the envelope and glanced at the papers. He said nothing and his facial expression never changed, but that vein on his temple once again was visible and this time it was throbbing.

“I'm afraid it does mean something Alistair” Alex replied carefully. “There is no court in the world that could or would deny these documents are authentic. I'm afraid Stuart has his rights.”

“Alistair, I was really hoping we could settle this like gentlemen, without the court's involvement. Surely you know Stuart will win if this case goes to court. It will be best for all concerned if we don't involve the courts. I know how you hate publicity.”

Alistair said nothing for a moment, which made both Liz and Alex extremely uncomfortable. Alex however wasn't going to back down now. “Alistair, I'm fully prepared to file these papers Monday morning. I don't want to do it but if we can't come to some sort of agreement before then, I'm afraid I'll be forced to file these documents.”

“Alex, you've been a thorn in my side from the day I married Katherine and I'm not even going to discuss Stuart. I'll tell you what, what if I give you a message and it can be relayed to that bastard.”

Liz couldn't move. Fear froze her in her position just feet from Alex. Though he wasn't shouting, his tone was so filled with venom, Liz felt like she could become physically ill. Her instincts told her the worst was yet to come.

Liz was actually shaking watching this scene unfold. Out of the corner of her eye, she thought she caught a glimpse of another person walking into the room and when she turned for a brief moment, she saw Sheridan hiding at the double doors leading into the living room.

Liz was shaken from her reverie when she heard a gunshot. She jumped back and looked over at Alex in horror. He was clutching his chest, blood oozing between his fingers, his face contorted in shock and pain. She then glanced at Alistair, who was standing a few feet in front of Alex with a gun pointed right at him.

“Oh wait, you won't be around to give him the message” Alistair said with a feigned look of concern. I guess I'll have to give it to him myself.” Alistair pulled the trigger two more times, pumping another shot into his chest and one into his head.

At first Liz was so shocked, she did nothing, just stood there paralyzed. Through her haze, she heard Sheridan screaming and watched her rush over to the body lying in a heap on the floor. Soon the sounds of her own screams drowned out those she was hearing from the young girl and before she knew it everything went black.

Sheridan sat in her seat reeling from what she'd just heard. She closed her eyes, her mind conjuring up image after image. She shook her head not willing to believe what Liz said was true, but knowing in her heart it was true.

“No, no” she said, her voice filled with fear, anger and regret. Tears began to well in her eyes. “No, it can't be. This isn't happening! No, make it stop!” Sheridan's eyes closed, her hands automatically grabbed the sides of her head as she violently tried to rid her mind of the images that continued to invade her thoughts.

“That night, the body under the bloody sheet. I remember everything that happened.” Sheridan was near hysteria and Luis was totally confused. Antonio watched curiously as did Doc and Hal, but Liz understood. Shaking her head, she understood only too well.

“Eve was wrong Luis” Sheridan said adamantly. “It was real, all of it. I now know whose body it was under the bloody sheet. It wasn't your father Luis” she cried, tears in her eyes. “And it wasn't my mother. The body was my cousin Alex.” Sheridan crumpled in a heap in Luis' arms and sobbed uncontrollably for a moment. Luis stroked her hair and whispered soothingly to her in an effort to calm her.

Nothing Luis did seemed to help. Luis had seen Sheridan through some rough times, being caught in the magician's box, seeing blood on her hands after shooting Les, the hypnosis session with Eve, being buried alive but he'd never seen her like this. After a few moments he looked up helplessly. “I don't know what to do. I've never seen her like this before.”

Doc watched Sheridan for another moment and finally nodded his head. “I'll be right back” he said. “I'll get her a sedative. She's been so overloaded with memories the last few days, this one was probably just too much for her.” Doc walked quickly towards the hotel and returned a moment later with his black bag. “I'm going to give her an injection which will make her sleep for awhile. Hopefully when she wakes up she'll be able to deal with all of this.”

“Thanks Doc” Luis said gratefully. Within several minutes, Sheridan's babblings slowed and soon sleep overtook her. Luis heaved a sigh of relief when he felt her breathing become rhythmic and her body relax.

Luis effortlessly lifted his wife into his arms. Sheridan stirred slightly, her arms wrapping automatically around his neck. She snuggled against his chest and sighed contentedly in her sleep. Luis kissed her forehead lovingly and began walking towards the hotel.

“I`ve already explained that, Antonio” Doc said. “Sheridan's mind has been completely overloaded with memories these past few days. She was in a great amount of pain getting back the memories of her recent years. According to what I heard them talking about, Sheridan undergoing a hypnosis session and the memories being wrong, I'd have to say that the memory of what happened that night has been buried so deep in her mind that it was too much for her body to take. The mind is very fragile.”

“Well, it looks like we should all go back to the hotel then, doesn't it?” Hal said with a half smirk. He'd been very quiet most of the time but certainly had been an active listener. He was on Antonio's side. He knew enough of Sheridan's history to know he was right. Doc shrugged his shoulders and decided to join the others as they all made their way back to the inn.

Antonio knocked lightly against the half opened door. He crooked his head around the corner and spotted his brother sitting on the edge of the king-sized bed, quietly caressing her cheek and speaking softly to her.

“Luis?” He called quietly, not wanting to disturb Sheridan. Luis turned his head and saw his brother standing at the door. He motioned for him to enter, kissed Sheridan lightly on the lips and stood up. He walked over to where Antonio was standing, glancing back several times to make sure Sheridan was still sleeping.

“No, go right ahead” Luis agreed readily. Doc walked over to Sheridan and examined her while Antonio was fixed on finding out from his brother what happened during Sheridan's hypnosis session.

“Sheridan's been having nightmares since she was a child” Luis finally began after gathering his thoughts. “All of her nightmares stem back to the night Papa disappeared. I don't know all the details, but her father sent her away to some hospital in France the next day. The doctors there tried to convince her what she remembered was nothing but a nightmare.”

“That's not all” Luis continued. “After she and I met, she found out that Papa disappeared the same night as her nightmares began and she became convinced that she killed Papa. She kept talking about her hands being covered in blood and a body under a bloody sheet. She was absolutely tortured by these nightmares.”

“I refused to believe that Sheridan killed anyone so I suggested that Eve put her under hypnosis to find out exactly what happened that night. She told Sheridan that her nightmares were nothing but a manifestation of the guilt she felt having caused her mother's death.”

“Well, it seems that her illustrious father Alistair told Sheridan she was to blame for her mother's untimely death. She never fully recovered after giving birth to her.” The sarcasm in Luis' voice was thick.

“I know it” Luis agreed. “Sheridan's life was a living hell after her mother died. Alistair shipped her off to boarding school and basically had nothing to do with her. I could kill that bastard for what he's done to her.”

Luis nodded in agreement. “Sheridan didn't have a pleasant childhood that's for sure,” Luis said. “I thought she'd finally gotten past all of it though. Until today she hadn't had any nightmares since Eve hypnotized her.”

Liz walked over to Luis and placed her hand on his arm in a comforting fashion. “Luis, I know this is hard right now for both you and Sheridan” Liz explained, “but as difficult as this is, I think in the long run it will all be for the best.”

Doc, who was listening to the conversation walked over to them, having finished examining Sheridan. “I agree Sheridan blocked much of this out of her mind” Doc said, “but if what you describe is true, it sounds like those European doctors had something to do with her faulty memories over the years, for example thinking she killed your father.”

“It could be” Doc suggested. “It's possible her father paid the doctors to rid Sheridan of the memory of that night. He seems to have gotten rid of anyone linked to that event except for Sheridan. Since she was only a child he probably thought brainwashing her and sending her away to Europe would be enough.”

Luis walked outside Sheridan's room and began pacing back and forth. Liz, Antonio and Doc watched him curiously. They knew he was deep in thought and wondered what had him so preoccupied. After several minutes of pacing, he walked back to the doorway.

“Luis, no offense” Antonio said, stating what he thought was the obvious, “but you're last name is Lopez Fitzgerald and Sheridan is a Crane. That in itself is enough reason for Alistair not to want Sheridan to get involved with you.”

“No, that's not it, Antonio” Luis said adamantly. “Sheridan's had lots of men in her life that weren't blue bloods. Most of them were nothing but users, wanting her for her family name and fortune. Never once did Alistair, Julian or anyone else in that family do or say anything. With me they were trying to keep us apart before we were even a couple.”

“I'd bet my badge on it” Luis assured him. `I've always suspected their involvement in Papa's disappearance and I thought that's all there was to it. Now I'm sure there's a lot more to it and Sheridan is the key.”

A thought suddenly occurred to Luis. He still didn't know exactly why his father was killed. “Liz, do you have any idea why my father was killed by the Cranes? Did he have a chance to tell you what happened?”

“Yes he did” Liz answered. “I have the letter in my room. I'll go get it and it should explain everything to you.” Antonio and Luis exchanged ardent glances as Liz disappeared to get the letter she'd packed away so many years ago.

“There you all are” Hal said joining the others near Sheridan's doorway. “I was about to send out a search party.” Hal noticed the apprehensive look on Luis' face and then caught Antonio's eye.

Hal nodded his head in understanding and said nothing further. He was as curious as the others to find out why Alistair and Julian Crane felt the need to kill Martin Fitzgerald.

Luis glanced from the yellowed paper his brother and then back to the letter. He fought back the lump developing in his throat, attempting to read, but seeing the words, even if it was only the first few lines in his father's handwriting was too overwhelming for him. He offered his brother the chance to read it, but he too declined.

I pray you and the children are in good health and have suffered no serious effects from my mysterious disappearance. Believe me when I tell you, the last thing in this world I would ever do is deliberately cause any of you undue pain and I fear that is what happened. I didn't leave of my own volition, Pilar. I would never do that to you or the children. I stumbled upon some entries made in the ledger at Crane Industries that were not meant for my eyes and it was deemed I needed to be disposed of for seeing them.

My friend Liz is now writing this for me as I am too weak to write anymore. Pilar, I would do anything in the world if I didn't have to write this letter to you, but I have little choice. I am dying my love. I am sure Alistair and Julian believe I am already dead, but I was stronger than they thought, just not strong enough I am afraid. After my discovery in the ledgers, I confronted Alistair. At first I thought the entries were a mistake… I soon found out they weren't. Alistair kidnapped me and had me placed on a boat headed for Bermuda. The boat was rigged to explode, which it did. I'm sure I was supposed to die in the explosion, but thanks to a local doctor I am still alive, though my injuries are too severe for me to last much longer.

There is so much I want to say to you, sweetheart. It's been thoughts of one day seeing you and the children again that have kept me alive this long. I've tried so hard to stay positive that I'd one day be back in your loving embrace, feel your silky hair slip through my fingertips, inhale your sweet scent… Oh Pilar I will miss you so much it hurts, the pain of which is monumental compared to those of my injuries. We've been robbed sweetie! The life we planned together has been stolen from us by the Cranes, just like they have taken so much from so many others in Harmony and elsewhere. We'll never be able to watch our children grow up together, have children of their own… We won't grow old together.

Pilar, I am growing weaker and I have some things I must say. Please, whatever you do, whatever happens, please leave your position in the Crane household. I fear for you and our family being so close to those people. Do not let the Cranes know you received this letter from me, at least not immediately. Your lives would be in imminent danger.

I copied the records I saw, Pilar. I hid them in a very safe place. I told Luis where my hiding place was the last morning I was home, but I didn't tell him what was hidden there. Send him and Antonio to find them and take them directly to the Chief of Police with this letter. Then take the family and go to Maria's for awhile. The fall out will be tremendous from this.

I don't mean to frighten you sweetheart, but in a way I do. You must know that Alistair Crane is a ruthless man and will stop at nothing to get what he wants, not even short of murder, as that is what he has done to me. My friend Liz, the one writing this letter for me was also on the boat that exploded. She was more fortunate than I as her injuries weren't as severe. Her only crime was being in the wrong place at the wrong time. She witnessed Alistair shoot and kill Katherine's cousin Alex. I met him briefly the night he was at the mansion. Somehow I think my having seen them there that night helped in the decision to terminate my life. I fear poor Sheridan's life is in danger as well. I wonder if she saw or heard anything that night?

Luis and Antonio brushed the tears from their eyes as Liz finished reading the letter. Liz herself dabbed her eyes as the memories of helping Martin write those words came flooding back to her. For a few moments, no one said a word, no words were necessary. Martin's words spoke volumes of how the Cranes had destroyed so many lives.

Luis took the letter from Liz and silently re-read it, committing his father's words to memory. Something struck him as he came to one part of the letter and he read that part several times. Antonio must have been reading the same sentence over his shoulder because he furrowed his brow in thought before asking his brother his question.

“Don't you think I don't know that?” Luis snapped. Immediately he regretted being so harsh with his brother, but his frustration at not being able to remember was getting the best of him at the moment. “Look, Antonio I'm sorry. I'm trying to remember what Papa and I talked about that morning.”

Luis stared at Antonio in disbelief. “That's right!” He exclaimed. “I'd nearly forgotten all about that. I was supposed to pitch in the game against Bangor the next weekend. Papa promised to show me how to throw a curve ball. Mama was pretty upset. She told him my arm hadn't finished growing and she was afraid it would be permanently deformed.” The two boys laughed at the memory.

“You and Papa talked about nothing but baseball for several weeks before that game Luis” Antonio prodded, hoping to jog his brother's memory. “Is there any chance you mentioned something about it to him that morning? I mean, it was the weekend.”

Luis thought hard. Times spent playing ball with his father flashed through his mind. He could hear himself as a small boy begging his father to play catch, to throw him the ball so he could hit just one more, to hit the ball to him so he could catch just one more fly ball… “Papa and I had a date for Saturday morning” Luis said slowly, piecing the memories together. “I reminded him every day for a week about it.”

“I went into the kitchen that morning and Papa was reading the paper and drinking his coffee as usual” he said. “You were still asleep and Mama was getting the other kids dressed and ready for the day…”

“Ready?” Martin asked as if in a fog. He then noticed the mitt and ball in his son's hands and remembered he had a date to show Luis how to throw a proper curveball. “Luis, I am sorry, but we're going to have to do this later today. I have an important meeting with Mr. Crane this morning.”

Martin sighed heavily. He hated disappointing Luis. “I'll tell you what Luis” he said, an idea forming. “Why don't you meet me at the gazebo around four. I should be finished with Mr. Crane and any work for the day and we can practice until dinnertime.”

“You just remember that gazebo son” Martin said cryptically. “It's a great place to meet, a place to think things out. Anytime I have a problem I go right there to sort things out in my head.”

“I did indeed Luis” Martin said. “It's a shame not many people use it. It's such a beautiful spot. It helps me think. I could go in there with all the problems in the world and when I leave there, my problems stay there right under that bench, hidden from the rest of the world. I can come home and never worry.”

Martin laughed it off and then waved his hand in a dismissive fashion. “I don't mean anything by it really. Just that I can solve most of my problems there. Now, why don't you go find Hank and practice your hitting. It's going to take more than learning how to throw a curveball to win that game.”

“I'll do that Papa” Luis said. He turned to leave but something stopped him. He turned back and ran over to his father and threw his arms around his neck hugging him tightly. “Thanks, Papa.”

Martin chuckled, surprised at his son's actions but pleased nonetheless. He returned the embrace and then patted Luis on the backside and winked. “You go show Bennett what Luis Lopez Fitzgerald is made of.”

“You know, I think Papa was trying to tell me something with all that talk about leaving his problems at the gazebo” Luis said, excitement in his voice. He grabbed the letter which was now sitting on the table between the two brothers. He re-read the section in which Martin referred to him.

I copied the records I saw, Pilar. I hid them in a very safe place. I told Luis where my hiding place was the last morning I was home, but I didn't tell him what was hidden there.

“You think Papa hid those documents under the bench in the gazebo? But how Luis? I know I haven't been in Harmony in quite some time but if I remember correctly, that bench is made of concrete and was secured in place. It can't be moved.”

“It seems to me that if these copies of the ledgers your father saw are really hidden in the gazebo at the Crane Estate you'll finally have something concrete in which to bring Alistair up on charges.”

“Those papers will be important Luis” Hal continued, “as will the letter from your father to your mother, but I think you should gather all the proof you can before telling anyone anything. After everything I've heard today, it's clear to me that Alistair and Julian Crane not only killed this man Alex, attempted the murder of Liz and succeeded with your father Martin, but they also planned to murder Sheridan and probably you as well.”

“I think you should get the proof that Alistair or Julian paid someone to rig the boat you and Sheridan were on and then had the dental records and fingerprint documents forged or altered in someway to make it look like that body recovered was indeed Sheridan's. Once you have all of your proof, of everything Alistair and Julian have done then you can nail them with at least a dozen capital crimes. There's no way they'll be able to talk or bribe their way out of all of the charges.”

“You might be right” Luis said thoughtfully. “I don't want those slimy creeps slipping through our fingers. Where should we start? How can we prove they rigged the boat Sheridan and I were on?”

“Leave that to me” Hal said with an impish grin. “You call Sam and have him start working on getting those papers your father hid. I'm going to go make some phone calls of my own.” With an encouraging glance, Hal left to make some calls.

“Thanks Antonio” Luis smiled. He looked long and hard at his brother and couldn't help the feelings of love and camaraderie for his big brother that hadn't surfaced in such a long time. For years those feelings had been replaced by anger, worry, hurt and betrayal. He'd built up a wall around his heart after his father and Antonio disappeared. Sheridan blasted through that wall and it began to crumble. Now it appeared as though the wall was finally coming down completely. Luis still had to deal with all that was happening, his father's death being the most difficult, but he found it really felt good to have his brother back, wonderful in fact.

Luis watched Antonio as he walked towards the door. “You can stay if you like” Luis blurted out. Antonio turned to face Luis. “I mean, this phone of yours is a speaker phone and I bet Sam will be surprised to hear your voice.”

“Thanks, I'd like to stay” Antonio responded without hesitation. He wanted nothing more than to help bring down the Cranes and the fact he and Luis could do it together seemed fitting. Luis smiled. He was pleased Antonio was going to be part of this. He was also sure their father was watching them from heaven and smiling his two sons were finally together again.

Luis picked up the phone and dialed the familiar number. It was beginning. After he made this one phone call there was no turning back. Operation Bring Down the Cranes would begin once he talked to Sam on his cell phone.

“Sheridan's fine Sam, well physically that is. She has her memory back… Look Sam, I have a lot to tell you but now isn't the time for it. I have another reason I'm calling. There's someone here that I'd like to say hello to you.”