This Can't Be Happening

Sheridan was the one family member, whose company he truly enjoyed, the one person he trusted completely. He was sickened by what they'd done, but also very pleased his mother had defied them, by telling the truth allowing Sheridan to be with Luis. He knew Sheridan loved Luis and it hurt him deeply to see her heart broken.

He finally spoke. “Sam, for the first time in my life, I am embarrassed to admit my last name is Crane . It is inconceivable to me that anyone could be as reprehensible as my father and grandfather. I'm ashamed to be related to them” Ethan said with contempt. “I am just glad that my mother at least has a conscience.”

“No buts” he said gently. “I have some unfinished business with the police involving this case. Besides, Sam is on his way here. We can't go anywhere until he gets here, so I insist you rest until then. Once all this stuff is taken care of, then we will discuss your leaving.” Luis gave her a kiss on the forehead. “Remember” he whispered. “I love you.” He looked around to make sure no one was looking, then added, “And you need to regain your strength. I have plans for us, for later.” His tone was seductive and his facial expression sent shivers through Sheridan's body.

Luis let out a gentle laugh as he left. `I'd better call Sam,' he said to himself, `before I go back to talk to those cops.' He was still smiling thinking about his plans for Sheridan . He pulled out his cell phone and dialed Sam's number.

Ethan realized he may have said too much, so he tried to compensate. “This whole situation with Luis, all her other failed love affairs and the fact that she was sent away from the family at such a young age. She's never had the love she deserves” Ethan said. “I'm just glad she found Luis” Ethan continued. “You know, it's funny, but I don't think she even knew how much she cared about him until she thought he'd used her. She'd never been so hurt in any relationship. I think my father and grandfather's plan may have backfired on them, causing Luis and Sheridan to grow closer, rather than apart.”

Sam chuckled, “You may be right, Ethan,” Sam said. “I too, had never seen Luis so broken up about anything in his life. I'm just glad Alistair and Julian didn't get their way, this time.” His voice trailed off as he uttered the last sentence, not realizing Ethan was sitting right next to him. He was remembering the last night he and Ivy spent together, her wedding night to Julian. His face was now hard and cold.

“I know” Luis said, disturbed at the thought of what almost happened. If Sheridan hadn't noticed those two when they came through the door...” Luis shook the thought of Sheridan that way, out of his head. He couldn't even think the word.

“No,” Luis admitted unfortunately. “She was racking her brain, trying to figure it out. She had a really bad feeling about them too” Luis added, “and rightfully so. I didn't like their looks myself. There was just something about them.” Luis was thinking. Trying to remember what it was about them that bothered him. “If Sheridan had met them before, I doubt it was in Harmony” Luis said speculatively . “I've been in that town a lot longer than she has and I never saw them. “I would have remembered THEM.”

Sheridan decided to take Luis' advice and relax while she had the chance. She'd had a very long day, part of it the most wonderful experience of her life, part of it a horrible one. She closed her eyes, trying only to remember how wonderful it had been to finally make love with Luis. She could feel herself smiling and getting tingly all over as she remembered his kisses, his tender touch. As she started drifting off, her mind started wandering, focusing on the two men in black trench coats. Why did they bother her so much she wondered? Was it both of them, she thought she'd seen or just one of them? She tried to separate them in her mind, trying to visualize their faces. One of their faces was so familiar, but why? Where had she seen it before? Her mind now completely wandering, she was remembering a box, she'd once seen. She remembered opening the box, being shocked by it's contents.

“Sam, what is going on there?” Ivy asked, her voiced strained. “It has to be something terrible, otherwise you never would have called Ethan. Why didn't you get the number from Sheridan? It would have been simpler then getting Ethan involved.”

“Truthfully Ivy” Sam said thoughtfully, “I don't know what to think. It's either them or some bizarre coincidence. It doesn't make sense, though that they would try to kill Sheridan.” Sam paused for a moment, deep in thought. “O.K. Ivy,” he said carefully. “Here is what I want you to do. Do you have anyone there with you?”

“You stay there. Don't go out, don't talk to anyone” Sam warned. “Have your housekeeper answer the phone. If they ask for you, have her tell them you are not there. If they ask for Sheridan, tell them to say she is sleeping. Jet Lag or something. Figure something out. Don't use any credit cards, nothing. I will call again, as soon as I find out what is going on. I will identify myself first and you can instruct your housekeeper to give you the phone. I will ask for Sheridan.”

“It's just that.....” Detective Pete O'Brien said thoughtfully, “We've had a lot of activity between Boston and Paris lately. It seems that the drug cartel from France is setting up business here, which is why we've had an increase in the amount of street drugs around. We've all been working overtime for months now trying to find the leader. So far, we haven't had any luck.”

Luis was at a loss for words. He sat there, thinking. He finally spoke. “My first reaction is yes. It had to be them. No one knew we were here” he orated. Sam and Ivy were the only two people who knew we were here. Ivy did have to contact a few people to make arrangements, but she said they were well paid. I figured, someone was questioned, and buckled under a threat. What I don't understand, is why did they try to kill Sheridan? If they wanted to kill someone, wouldn't it have been me? From where I sit, it seems they wanted to just keep me away from Sheridan and they wanted it to look like her idea. But killing her?” Luis shook his head. As much as he hated the Cranes, he couldn't see them killing Sheridan.

“The other thing I don't understand” Luis continued. “If it was drug related, why Sheridan? We only came to this city a few hours ago. We don't know anyone. One thing I know for sure, it wasn't random. It was too well planned out. Those two men in trench coats must have been following us.” The more Luis spoke, the more confused he became. He was nearly certain the Cranes weren't responsible for this, but had no idea who was responsible.

“Well, Luis” The detective said in concurrence, “You're right on all accounts. It doesn't make sense that the Crane's would hurt Sheridan; therefore it has to be another source. Now, the question is...” his sentence was cut off by a knock at the door.

Sam had placed his phone on the seat next to him. Ethan was deep in thought, remembering the story of all the events that had transpired, as well as Sam's conversation with his mother. “Chief Bennett” Ethan asked quietly “Do you really think my father and grandfather would poison Sheridan?”

“I can't imagine anyone trying to hurt Sheridan, Ethan” Sam said somberly “ but the facts remain, someone did try to kill her. I don't want to believe that. I know for a fact, that those two men have done their share of dirty dealings in the past. They've swindled, cheated and stolen from people. Not only money, but hearts and souls. But to actually kill one of their own family? Even I am having a hard time with that one.”

“To find you!” Sheridan explained, letting out a sigh of relief. She then noticed the two men with Luis. She leaned towards Luis and whispered in his ear, “Next time you bring me company, please check to make sure I'm dressed first? Remember, I'm full of surprises!” Sheridan gave Luis a quick scowl and then a wink, letting him know she was a little upset but she would forgive him this time.

“I'm very pleased to meet you gentlemen” Sheridan said with a smile, as she extended her hand to shake hands with both men. She then looked at Officer Fitzgerald with slight amusement. “Any chance you two are related?” she asked nodding her head in Luis' direction.

Detective O'Brien was a stout man in his late 50's with white hair and pale blue eyes. He was about the same height as Sheridan. Officer Fitzgerald contrasted him as much in personality as in looks. He was a handsome man appearing to be in his early 30's with dark brown hair and eyes, at least 6'3, slender build, and his skin was the same color as his eyes. He was easy going, compared to Detective O'Brien, who by all appearances was all business. The men did seem to compliment each other though.

“The last man I dated before I returned to Harmony was a weasel by the name of Jean-Luc” Sheridan said wryly. “At the time I thought I was in love with him. I have since found out it was anything but love.” She gave Luis a very quick wink and smile. Luis returned the smile. “He asked me to marry him and I accepted.”

“No” Sheridan gave a sad smile. “He changed the subject. He then talked me into eloping with him. He was very insistent. Since I had no idea what kind of a man he was at the time, I thought it was just his excitement about marrying me.”

“He took me to his country home that night” she resumed her story, “and we were to be married the next day. He gave me a tour of the house which was beautiful” she said as she remembered the evening. Then Sheridan laughed, almost wickedly. “One of the walls had a plaque on it that said `Even a good marriage will shipwreck on deceit'. I guess it was a warning.” she shrugged her shoulders.

“Later that night after we.... ,” Sheridan thought about she was about to say and quickly changed her mind. Her cheeks were turning pink and she avoided looking at Luis. Luis had a feeling he knew what she was about to say. He shoved his hands in his pockets, trying very hard to hide any look of jealousy that might show itself. “Later that night, I was looking around Jean-Luc's bedroom and found a box under his bed. I thought it might be baby pictures, so I opened the box.” Sheridan's voice had a hint of nervousness and she flew through her last sentence. Luis now knew he was right, but continued to hide his feelings.

“I was totally shocked when I opened the box” Sheridan said more comfortable now. “It had all sorts of drug paraphernalia in it. There was a small scale, tiny vials filled with white powder, pills, all different colors, and other things, I had no idea what they were. I was sure their had to be some kind of mistake, so I went to search for Jean-Luc and confront him.”

“I walked into the other room, and that is where I had my reality check” Sheridan said bitterly, as she remembered how many times she had been used by men in her past. “Jean-Luc was with another woman. The woman told him he had to decide which woman he wanted. He told her he only wanted her and then he kissed her. He told her he had to make me believe he loved me, so I would marry him.” Sheridan fought back a tear. It didn't come. “He told her, that after we'd been married a few weeks and he had my money, he would leave and they would be married.

“Well, I'd heard enough so I stepped out and confronted them both” Sheridan said. “I told the girl she could have him. He started making up all sorts of excuses. I slapped him, grabbed my stuff and left.” Sheridan let out a big sigh. Luis remembered his own slap and now understood, completely.

“He tried to follow me, but I sped out of there as fast as I could. I went back to my apartment and packed my bags. The next thing I knew I was back in Harmony.” Now a grin crept across her face as she remembered the first person she met, coming home to Harmony. She smiled quickly at Luis. “But that is an entirely different story.”

“O.K. Miss Crane, the detective said to her. “You have been a big help. Right now, I think you and Officer Lopez-Fitzgerald need to get some sleep. It's morning already” he said looking at his watch. “The police department will provide a ride for you back to your hotel, as soon as your friends arrive, and we will post several officers throughout the hotel and at your door, just in case.”

Luis was standing next to Sheridan, absentmindedly rubbing her back as she was signing all the necessary forms for her release. She'd never been so happy to sign her name to a piece of paper in her life. The two policemen were in the waiting room, one filling out his own paperwork, the other on the telephone making arrangements for police protection for Sheridan.

Luis let out a quick chuckle and waved his hand in dismissal. “Don't worry about it” Luis said. “It wasn't your fault. I stopped blaming Sheridan a long time ago for the things Julian and Alistair have done. Theresa and Sheridan have been telling me along the same thing about you.”

Listen Sam, Sheridan and I are going back to the hotel to get some sleep” Luis said. “I'll introduce you to the two policemen that have been working on the case and they can fill you in on everything. Afterwards, you and Ethan can get yourself settled in, and we'll meet, for say dinner?” Luis asked noting it was now 6:30 in the morning. “These guys” Luis said gesturing towards O'Brien and Fitzgerald, “have been great. They have arranged for police protection for Sheridan at the hotel. They'll make sure you know where we are, and will make sure you guys are o.k. too.”

Luis and Sheridan were escorted back to their hotel by a plain clothed detective. He pointed out the other plain clothed officers they saw scattered throughout the hotel. They also saw a uniformed officer who was posted right outside the door to their room. Sheridan felt relieved. They quickly thanked their escort and the officer on duty. The slipped quietly into their room. It looked the same as it had, when they left. The food tray had been left outside the door, before they went on their walk, otherwise the room remained untouched.

Sheridan quickly changed into a pair of white silk pajamas. She returned to the living area only to find Luis gone, and his bedroom door was shut. She had a look of total disappointment on her face. “I guess I can't blame him” she said. “It's been a very long day, but I at least wanted to say goodnight.” Too tired to really complain she returned to her own room. She was about to climb into bed, when she saw Luis standing in front of the bathroom door, wearing pajama bottoms, smiling at her.

Luis climbed into bed next to Sheridan. She quickly snuggled close to him and laid her head on his chest. She'd never felt happier or safer than she did at that moment, wrapped in the arms of the man she loved. She lazily lifted her head just enough to see his face looking down at her. His beautiful brown eyes were filled with love. She smiled at him.

Sam, Ethan, and Detective O'Brien had just finished ordering breakfast. Officer Fitzgerald had returned to the Police station to file his report. Detective O'Brien had filled Sam in on the fact that Sheridan's old boyfriend had most likely been a drug dealer involved with the two men that tried to kill Sheridan.

“What I don't understand” Sam asked after mulling the situation over in his mind “is why here and why now? No one knew Sheridan would be in Boston, not even Sheridan until about 3 hours before she arrived. She was supposed to be going back to Paris.”

“We have had many reports lately” the detective replied, “of increased drug activity. The description of two men with French accents in black trench coats, had come up more than once.” Pete O'Brien sighed and looked at Sam. “I know this may be difficult to believe, especially considering all the trouble Luis and Sheridan have had lately, but I think this is just a case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

Their food arrived and the three men ate discussing ideas on how to catch the two French drug dealers. Detective O'Brien informed them he would be looking into Jean-Luc's history. He was the one solid lead they had. They knew his name and had two addresses in France for him. From Sheridan's description of what she'd found in the box and her conversations with him, it sounded like he had been involved with these other men and wanted out. It appeared he saw Sheridan as his ticket out of the clutches of the other two men.

Ethan had arranged for rooms for Sam and himself on the same floor as Sheridan and Luis. They too were very tired and needed some sleep. They agreed to meet later that night to discuss their plans for getting the Frenchmen. Sam told Detective O'Brien he'd fill Luis in at dinner.

Julian just walked into his study, as he heard the phone ring. He looked at his watch, noting it was exactly 9:00 a.m. “I must say, Father wastes no time” Julian said with slight dismay. He was not looking forward to today's activities.

Julian was almost relieved. He had no idea what his father's latest plan was, but he could only imagine. Although he always did what his Father told him, sometimes he wished he'd had the courage to say no. But as Julian knew, only too well, NO ONE says NO to Alistair Crane and gets away with it.

“Yes Julian” Alistair said. “It seems Sheridan's past with that Frenchman, Jean-Luc has caught up with her. Two of the men he worked for saw her in Boston last night and decided they needed to get rid of her. It seems they have been looking for her since she left Paris.”

Ivy was pacing back and forth in Sheridan's Paris apartment. She jumped at the slightest noise. Every few minutes, she looked at her watch, wondering what was taking Sam so long to call. Finally the telephone rang. The sound nearly caused her to jump out of her skin. She ran to the phone, ready to pick it up, when she remembered Sam tell her not to answer the phone. She stopped, waiting for Marie, her housekeeper to answer.

“It appears, they were drug dealer friends of Sheridan's last boyfriend in Paris, Jean-Luc” Sam told her. “She remembered meeting one of them once. These guys are playing for keeps, Ivy. They have recently set up in Boston. They must have seen Sheridan and decided she may be able to recognize them. They needed to dispose of her.”

“It's a good possibility Ivy” Sam said with regret. “The police have a man stationed at her door, as well as other officers scattered throughout the hotel. We are all going to meet later tonight and decide what the best way to handle this situation will be.”

Ivy stood by the phone, holding the locket around her neck, thinking about the man she loved. “Maybe I'll go to Boston instead of New York” she said with a sly smile. She then laughed lightly to herself and prepared to leave the next day.

Sheridan was the first to stir. She woke up, unsure of her surroundings at first, then felt an arm around her and remembered. She smiled as she looked at Luis sleeping. How wonderfully she had slept in Luis' arms, she thought. `If only we could stay like this forever' she thought with a dreamy look.

Sheridan quietly climbed out of bed, being careful not to disturb Luis and decided to shower. She noted the time, it was only 3:00, so she had loads of time before dinner. `Maybe I can get some more cuddle time in with Luis' she thought smiling to herself. She grabbed some fresh clothes and disappeared into the bathroom.

Luis rolled over in bed. He woke suddenly and realized Sheridan wasn't there. “Sheridan?” he called out, but received no response. He walked into the other room, still not finding her. “Maybe she's in the bathroom” he said to himself, so he walked back into the bedroom and knocked on the bathroom door. He heard the shower running, then it stopped. He knew she was in there, but knocked again, just to make sure everything was all right.

“Maybe I'll call the police station and see if there is anything new” Luis said. He picked up the phone and was about to dial when Sheridan returned from her shower. He placed the phone back in it's cradle deciding it could wait till later.

“Good afternoon then” Sheridan laughed, as she gently placed her arms around Luis' shoulders and pushed him backwards on the bed. She then kissed him, slowly at first, then building in intensity. Sheridan now lay on top of Luis, one hand rifling his hair, the other massaging his chest.

Luis' body was on fire. He responded, kissing her furiously. He carefully lifted her up and rolled her over. He pulled back for a moment, gazing deeply into Sheridan's deep blue eyes. He smiled. She smiled back. Their eyes both filled with love, passion and desire. He returned to kissing her. He kissed her face, her neck, working his way down her body. One hand softly caressing her face, the other untying her robe. He pulled the robe away from her body, causing Sheridan to moan lightly. He started caressing her newly exposed shoulder, moving his way down her body.

Sheridan was quickly becoming lost into a different world, as was Luis when they were suddenly jarred back to reality, by the sound of the telephone. It was a loud piercing ring. For a moment they both tried to ignore it, but the ringing continued, getting louder with each passing second.

“Never been better Sam” Luis uttered in a deep voice. Sheridan's touches were now causing his entire body to shiver. “I gotta go. I'll call you later.” Luis barely hung the phone up when he quickly turned to face Sheridan. He kissed her fiercely. She responded just as passionately. They once again were exploring each other's bodies, enjoying their heightened senses, when the phone rang. Again they tried to ignore it, but were unable to. This time Sheridan answered the phone, totally out of breath.

Sheridan fought back a laugh as she vividly remembered what she'd been doing when the phone rang. A small smile crept onto her face. She realized what she was doing and quickly changed the subject. “So, what was so important that you had to see me immediately?” Sheridan asked merrily.

“Your problem involving Father and Grandfather trying to keep you and Luis apart” Ethan said with disgust. “I'll tell you Sheridan, I have never been more disappointed in my life. I always knew that Father wasn't always, shall we say a pillar of truths, but I never would have believed he's be this hurtful or this devious, especially with his own sister!” Ethan stood up. He was waving his hands in the air, trying to emphasize how repulsed he was at the lengths members of his family would go to.

“I know that Father and Grandfather are firm believers in Cranes marrying people with the same background, but...to do this? It is totally reprehensible Sheridan.” Ethan was fuming. “What could Luis have possible done to them, to cause them to go to such great lengths to keep the two of you apart?” Ethan asked, knowing pretty much what the answer would be.

Sheridan sat in silence for a few minutes. She remembered all the talks she'd had with Julian and Alistair about how Luis was using her, remembered them telling her she needed to stay away from him, as he wasn't in the same social circles, remembered the bribe Luis was offered to go to Virginia for FBI training. A tear came to her eye as she remembered the worst of all. Hearing Luis say all those horrible things about her. Remembering the pain she felt when she believed it was Luis, then the joy she felt when she realized it had all been part of a cruel joke. She then started recollecting her time with Luis in New Mexico and why they were there. The search for Martin Fitzgerald, finding him alive, the fake Martin, his death on New Years' Eve. All these memories came flooding back to her. There was one she couldn't shake. What connection did Julian have with the fake Martin? Why was Julian always nervous when the topic of Martin Fitzgerald came up? She didn't know the answers to these questions, but as she thought about it she was more sure than ever, it had something to do with Julian and her fathers determination to keep her away from Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald.

“Ethan” Sheridan said finally, deep in thought “I have dated different men in the past. Granted, they all seemed to turn out to be losers, wanting me for my money or the Crane name. However, not once in all those relationships did Father ever try to break us up. Maybe he knew they wouldn't last” she said trying to make sense out of the situation. “I don't know. There must be something about Luis they are afraid of” she said thoughtfully.

“That's not what I was referring to anyway Ethan” Sheridan continued. “I was alluding to Julian's presence in New Mexico when Luis and I were looking for his father. If as you say it was all a dream, then what business would Julian have with the Martin impostor? Why would he want us to believe it was the real Martin? Why did the fake Martin have Julian's private phone number in his wallet?” Sheridan could feel the anger within her building. “I can't believe I let Julian convince me he was completely innocent in this matter.” She laughed bitterly. “You know, he had the audacity to show me the contents of his safe proving he had nothing to hide? This was after Luis and I discovered he installed a new laser alarm. I was a fool to ever believe him. He probably took those papers out of the safe the minute he saw Luis and me kissing in front of it.”

“Sheridan” Ethan said after a moment “From everything you've just told me, this could be the real reason Father and Grandfather want to keep you away from Luis. To keep him away from the truth about his father. I was never truly convinced there was any truth to the whole story, but now I am beginning to believe it. I don't believe, however” Ethan stressed this point, “That you had anything to do with it. After what I have learned in the last few days about the kind of men Father and Grandfather are, I wouldn't at all be surprised to learn they had your memory altered when you were sent to Paris. Maybe you saw something so horrible, you were having a hard time dealing with it. They could have paid those doctors to make you believe you were responsible for what you saw, that way you wouldn't want to tell anyone.”

Sheridan did laugh this time. “That's easy” she said. “Julian and Alistair's Crane's biggest fear is that someone will drag the family name through the mud” she said mockingly. Maintain the Crane Empire! Mustn't ruin the family name!! The dynasty must stay intact! “ Sheridan had stood up and was now pacing the room flailing her arms as she mocked Julian and Alistair's notions of the most important things in life. “I can't believe I am related to either one of them” she screeched.

“Anyway, what if you tell Father that you will go to the tabloids with pictures of his torrid love affairs?” Ethan continued. “Tell him you will ruin his reputation and his name. Let him know that Mother will be sure to divorce him once this is public, thus causing more scandal.”

Sheridan's eyes lit up. “Unless he lets me lead my own life and choose whatever man I want, including Luis!” Sheridan almost yelled she was so happy. She ran over to Ethan and gave him a huge hug and kiss on the cheek. “Ethan you are a genius!” she said. “When did you get to be so devious?”

Ethan grinned. “Well, there is one set of pictures I'd never use. I don't have them actually, but I know where they are. Those pictures would not only destroy my father, but someone else as well and she doesn't deserve it. The other set ” Ethan started laughing, “was pure luck! Actually, it's from a surveillance monitor that someone happened to tape” Ethan laughed uncontrollably. “Sheridan, you would die if you ever saw it!” Ethan said doubled over.

“Here goes” Ethan said taking a deep breath and exhaling. “Mother told me recently, that she'd caught Father and our ex-maid Suzanne at the ski lodge she went to several weeks ago. “They were having a rendezvous. Mother was very upfront with me, telling me that Father had been having these little liaisons with different women for years. I was appalled that he could do something like that to my mother.” Ethan paused for a minute shaking his head as he thought about his father's illicit affairs.

“I decided to see for myself how long he'd been behaving in this manner” Ethan continued. “I knew he'd taken the Crane Jet to the ski lodge, so I decided to talk to the pilot. At first he didn't want to reveal anything, but I made him believe I knew everything. The pilot had a guilty look on his face and I used it to gain more information. I never dreamed, I'd find out what I did.”

“Our pilot, it seems” Ethan said emphasizing each word, “has a grudge against my father and was using the surveillance camera as a video camera each time Father was on board. He was hoping to find something he could blackmail him with.” Ethan now smiled. “The tape, which is now in my possession, shows my father and your brother having a `bullish' good time with Suzanne.” Ethan almost fell off the chair with laughter.

“How about kinky sex games, Sheridan?” Ethan said grinning. “How about Julian dressed up as a bull and Suzanne playing his little milkmaid? Do you think the tabloids would like to have a video of the mighty Julian Crane saying `MOOOOOOO'?” Ethan again began laughing uncontrollably.

Ivy was seated in her seat aboard a private jet she had hired to return her to the States. After her talk with Sam on the telephone earlier, she decided she needed to see him, tonight. It was only 9:00 in the morning when she talked to him their time, so she had plenty of time to get to Boston before everyone retired for the evening. Best of all, there would be no Grace and no Julian. What a wonderful thought!

Ivy strapped herself in for take off. `I guess I should sleep during this flight. After all, I don't want jet lag when I see Sam' she thought to herself. She closed her eyes as the plane started down the runway. She was going over in her head her plans to seduce Sam, once she had him alone.

Luis, Sheridan, Ethan and Sam had just finished eating dinner. They were finishing dessert and coffee, while they waited for Detective O'Brien and Officer Fitzgerald to join them. Sheridan had told Luis about Ethan's plan to keep Julian and Alistair off their backs. While he didn't like the idea of using a videotape to blackmail someone, which is exactly what they were doing, he could see no other alternative. Even Luis was surprised by Julian's eccentric sexual preferences. He knew that Julian Crane would never want that videotape released, so he agreed that it might work, for awhile anyway.

Luis had a hard time keeping his eyes off Sheridan all through dinner. He couldn't believe how incredibly gorgeous she looked tonight. He always knew she was beautiful, but there was just something about the way she looked tonight that was keeping him very distracted. Sheridan was wearing a simple but elegant black dress, completely backless. It looked like it was made just for her, as it accentuated every voluptuous curve on her body. The dress fell several inches above her knees, which was fine with Luis. He was completely distracted each time he looked at her, his eyes roamed up and down her figure. He noticed, how her shoes to were black strapped shoes, that wrapped up her legs to about mid calf. His eyes never stopped looking there, as they would continue following the curve of her legs upwards till he could see no more. He even noticed her fingernails and toenails matched, both a brilliant shade of red he'd never seen before.

Sheridan too kept gazing over at Luis all through dinner. He was wearing a tight fitting pair of black pants, a dark gray shirt with an open collar and black jacket. His cologne was intoxicating. She kept visualizing herself unbuttoning his shirt and caressing his muscular torso.

Both of them, tried to look at each other while the other wasn't looking. Occasionally they would catch each other's longing stare, causing them each to blush. These stares did not go unnoticed by Sam and Ethan, who just smiled, happy that they were finally free, if for only the moment to be with each other.

“Hey” he said gently. “I'm not going to let anything happen to you. No one will hurt you, and that's a promise.” Luis was staring directly into her sad blue eyes. He gave her an encouraging smile. She couldn't help but to smile back at him. “That's better” he said.

“Hello everyone” O'Brien said. Luis and Sheridan finally let go of each others hands and the men all shook hands. Sheridan smiled and greeted them both, trying to keep a positive attitude. Finally O'Brien and Fitzgerald both sat down. Both were in plain clothes.

“It seems that Jean-Luc and a girl named Mimi were both killed in a car explosion last July. From the dates Miss Crane gave us, it appears it happened the same night she decided to leave Paris. It was a bomb planted underneath the car outside his country home.”

“We found out that there have been numerous calls to the local hospitals inquiring about Miss Crane's condition” Officer Fitzgerald spoke up. Unfortunately the hospital she was released from told the person on the phone that she'd been treated and released.”

“Don't worry, Miss Crane” Detective O'Brien said. “This place is crawling with undercover cops, DEA is also here as well as Interpol. It seems that these men, whose names are Pierre and Roger are very well known. They are big time kingpins in the drug world. Fortunately for us, they don't know we know this yet.”

Luis held on to Sheridan tightly as he felt her go limp in his arms. He caressed her back, trying to soothe her. He wanted so much to take away her fear, but knew the only thing that could do that was the capture of Pierre and Roger. He was going to make sure that happened.

“Good. This is what I think will happen” O'Brien said. He then laid out for them all the information he had on how the drug dealers were planning on killing Sheridan and probably Luis as well. He told them his entire plan. The group listened intently.

With that O'Brien and Fitzgerald left the table and disappeared. The remaining four people at the table didn't speak for several minutes. Luis was still holding onto Sheridan with all his might, afraid to let her go. Sam and Ethan were thinking, about what would happen in a very short time, praying nothing would go wrong with their plan.

If you ever want to see that boyfriend alive again, you will get up without drawing any attention to yourself and come with me” the man said in a thick French accent. “Tell your friends you have received a phone call from your father and must take it. Remember, draw no attention to yourself, or I will kill you right here and then I will kill your boyfriend.”

The French speaking waiter had a firm grip on Sheridan's arm with one hand, a gun nuzzled into her ribs with the other. He was guiding her towards the front lobby door. Sheridan was practically oblivious to everything. She had resigned herself to the fact that she would be killed, very soon. She closed her eyes, tears beginning to stream down her face. She had only one thought as she walked to her certain death. `Luis, please remember I love you. Please try to be safe. I love you' she thought.

The crowd of conventioneers was becoming rowdy as they reached the hotel lobby. They were yelling and shouting, resembling a bunch of drunken men on Super Bowl Sunday. Sheridan could hear all the screaming in the back of her mind, but she thought it was just as unreal as the rest of what was happening.

Luis jumped, looking down, clutching his chest. The man dressed as a waiter, fell to the ground. Sheridan looked around in horror, only to see the men she thought were the conventioneers, were all standing there with weapons drawn. The waiter was lying dead on the tile floor in front of Luis. It was Pierre! Sheridan recognized him from the bar the night before. Detective O'Brien made his way through the crowd, holding another man by the arm. The other man had his hands cuffed behind his back. It was the man from Jean-Luc's country home, known as Roger.

Luis moved to Sheridan's side and wrapped his arms around her stunned body. Detective O'Brien walked towards Sheridan and Luis. Sam and Ethan had just managed to fight their way through the crowd, also finding their way to where Luis and Sheridan stood.

“I'm sorry, Miss Crane” O'Brien said. “We had to do it this way. We knew you would want to know what was going on, so we made up the story I told you earlier. It was much safer to let it happen like this. Luis was the only one that knew how it was going down. We needed his help since you two seem to be pretty tight.”

“Of course we can” Luis said to her. Luis motioned to the lounge that was now all but empty. The four of them walked over to the lounge and sat down at a table. They could see the activity that was still going on in the lobby as they sat there. Ethan ordered a stiff round of drinks for them. He handed Sheridan her glass and she thanked him.

Sheridan sat there for a minute with a blank expression on her face. Suddenly as if turned on by a switch, she fell into a fit of laughter. She laughed so hard, she cried. Finally she managed to control herself long enough to speak. “If that's the worst that will come out of this mess, I think I can handle it Luis” Sheridan said with amusement. “Remember that Ethan and I have a plan to deal with Alistair and Julian.”

confer with the Boston P.D. about the increased drug traffic between here and Harmony. Thanks partly to Luis, the biggest drug bust of the century has just occurred. If that doesn't guarantee his promotion to detective, I don't know what will” Sam finished with a huge smile.

“I know” Sam said with a grin. “The extra money will make the world of difference to him. He'll make a great detective too. Speaking of which, I'm going to make a phone call to the Harmony Brass and let them know what's going on. Maybe I can speed the process up!” With that, Sam got up and walked away from the table.

“Ethan” Sheridan said with a large smile, “I'm better than o.k. Sure I was scared there for a while. More than scared, but it's over. Not only do I not have to keep looking over my shoulder waiting to see if someone is following me, but as soon as I get back to Harmony WE are going to set Alistair and Julian Crane straight. I'll be able to see Luis and not worry about what will happen next. Oh, I am just perfect.” Sheridan never felt happier than she did at this minute. She looked around to find Luis, but didn't see him anywhere. She wanted to share her new found happiness with him.

“That makes two of us Ethan” Luis said as he flashed an alluring smile Sheridan's way. “Words can't begin to describe how that makes me feel” he continued as he stared directly into Sheridan's now sparkling blue eyes. He now remembered how he couldn't keep his eyes off her at dinner and began surveying her gorgeous body from top to bottom and back up again. When his eyes met Sheridan's again there was fire in them. The same fire he held in his own eyes. He suddenly felt hot. Very hot.

Sheridan made a motion for Luis to sit down next to her. “Lets finish our drinks Luis” she said in a very soft voice, never taking her eyes off him. She too remembered what she was feeling during dinner. She watched him with pleasure as he sat down next to her. He was sitting close to her and she could once again smell his cologne. Sheridan was also feeling quite warm. She took a sip from her wine glass and then fanned herself. “Boy it's really getting warm in here” she said. “I guess I must have had too much to drink.”

“Yes Detective” Sam said with a smirk. “I called the brass and told them what happened. They were so impressed, they gave me the authority to tell you myself. They also told me, you can take the rest of the week off now that this case has been solved. With pay of course.”

“No problem buddy” Sam said. “I understand completely. “Tell you what? I'll arrange for a big party Friday night in your honor. That will give you a few more days to spend here if you like and that way all your family and friends can be there too.”

Ethan left Sam and Ivy alone in the lounge. Sam trying not to let his nervousness show, explained everything that had happened in the last 24 hours. He actually was enjoying talking with Ivy, as she seemed very interested in listening to him and made intelligent comments along the way. He almost forgot where he was in time. He kept having flashes in his mind of late night chats he and Ivy would have, then his mind would come to the present remembering Grace and the kids. He was being torn between his present love for Grace (and he did love her) and his past with Ivy. Ivy was his first true love.

Sheridan and Luis walked silently back to their room, hand in hand. Every now and then, each would steal a glance at the other and smile. Once inside Sheridan threw her purse on the couch and plopped down next to it. She looked up at Luis and gave him a playful smile.

Luis actually enjoyed hearing Sheridan call him detective. He was still getting used to the idea It made him feel great when she said it. “I might know of something we can do together that I think we'll both enjoy” Luis said, walking over to Sheridan.

“I think I'll let you guess” Luis said teasingly. He gently kissed her neck, working his way down to her shoulder. Each kiss sent shivers through Sheridan's body. She closed her eyes, her head falling back as she enjoyed the touch of his lips on her skin.

Sheridan sat up and looked at Luis. She had passion and desire in her eyes. She started to unbutton his shirt. She very slowly undid each button. Her fingers deliberately grazed his bare chest as she opened each button. She could feel Luis' warm breath on her face as his breathing became heavy. Once she had completely opened his shirt, she gently massaged his well defined torso. She looked him in the eyes, and said, “I'm going to shower and change into something much more comfortable. Why don't you change into something more comfortable too? I'll find you when I'm ready.”

Luis sat there for a minute, not quite sure what to make of her disappearance. He decided to do as she asked and went into his room and changed into a pair of pajama bottoms. Without turning down the bed, he laid on top of it with his hands behind his head. He wondered what she was up to.

Sheridan took a quick shower, dried off, and ran into her bedroom. She was looking for a small package she hadn't unpacked. She smiled when she found it. She reread the note from Ivy and opened the box. Inside was a very lacy, very skimpy black teddy. She quickly put it on, laughing to herself, realizing there wasn't much to it. She had decided, however that the time was right. She then put her white silk robe on over it, hiding any evidence of what was underneath it.

Sheridan took a quick breath and headed back to Luis' room. She quietly opened the door and found him lying on the bed with his eyes closed. `God he is gorgeous' she said to herself. `How did I get lucky enough to have the man of my dreams feel the same way about me?'

Sheridan very slowly climbed onto the bed, laying her scantily clothed body on top of Luis. She could feel his heart pounding. Her own heart felt like it was about to come right out of her chest. She gave Luis a deadly smile and he reached up pulling her head down, kissing her passionately. Sheridan responded with everything she had. It felt so good to be with Luis at this minute. Nothing else mattered. She wanted to enjoy every touch. Every kiss. Every caress.

Luis was losing his sensed quickly. His kisses became more intense. His hands roaming freely, caressing and massaging everywhere. Both of them were completely lost now. They continued exploring each other, exciting each other and satisfying each other well into the wee hours of the night. They finally fell asleep in each others arms, out of nothing but shear exhaustion.

Luis stirred slightly as he felt the sun's warm rays through the window. He opened his eyes to see Sheridan peacefully sleeping in his arms. She had a small smile on her face. He couldn't help but smile. He suddenly felt a surge of heat go through his body as he remembered his wild night with Sheridan. `How could someone who was as beautiful and innocent as Sheridan, make him feel the way she did when they made love?' He asked himself. He gently kissed her on the forehead.

“Wonderfully” she smiled at him. She raised her hand to his face and gently traced its outline. She then moved her fingers to his lips, tracing them as well. Luis kissed her fingers as she did this. “Oh, what you do to me Detective Lopez-Fitzgerald” Sheridan said as she felt tingly all over. “I just can't seem to get enough of you.”

Luis laughed and then kissed her hand. “Believe me, I've noticed” he said. “Don't get me wrong” he said noticing her smile fade slightly “I have enjoyed it beyond my wildest expectations. In fact, I didn't know it was possible to feel this way. I thought the first time we made love was the most incredible experience of my life, but I was wrong. Last night was better. I can't even put into words the way I feel right now Sheridan. I can tell you this though. I don't ever want to leave this bed.” Luis gave her a mischievous grin, then kissed her forehead.

Sheridan was gazing at him with an adoring smile. “I know we have to get up sometime and go back to our lives” Luis continued, “but I also know things will never be the same. The only thing I can think of is you. I plan on spending every possible minute with you Miss Crane. I hope you are aware of that? I too am consumed with you. I don't think I'll ever be able to get enough of you. But...” he said with a seductive smile. “I'll sure enjoy trying.”

Sheridan saw so much love in his eyes, she was at a loss for words. She felt her eyes tear up and she buried her head in his chest and pulled him tight against her. She finally looked up into his handsome face, noticing the twinkle in his eyes. “Luis, I love you! I am so glad things are going to change when we go back. I want to be with you and only you. The first thing we are going to do is tell Hank he lost, o.k.? There is no way I want to play those games again. Once we take care of the Julian/Alistair problem, I want everyone to know how we feel about each other. I want to start fresh and be able to live our life the way we want it.

There are only two things I want. First, and most importantly is YOU. I want you in my life more than I have ever wanted anything. Second, I want to move out of the cottage and set up my own apartment, away from the Cranes. I can't live in a family that would treat someone the way my father and brother have treated me.”

“Ethan was the only person that ever cared about me, in my family, my entire life. He's the only reason I ever came back here to visit while I was living in Europe. I spent my entire life trying to please my father. Trying to make him love me. For what? To have him almost destroy our love for each other? What kind of a cruel thing is that to do to someone you claim you care about? I've always known, deep down he never really cared. I just needed to feel that someone loved me.” Her voice was dismal as it trailed off. “Anyway, that is all in the past, she said in a more cheerful tone. “As I said, I want to start a new life.”

“If you ever have a question, a problem, a complaint or a suspicion, you will come talk to me, please?” Luis implored. “I don't want us to keep anything from each other. I don't ever want to go through what we just went through again.”

“I'm so sorry about not telling you right away Luis” Sheridan said. “It's just that damned pride of mine. When I thought you had really said those things, I didn't want you to think you'd hurt me. I never want to feel that way again Luis. Never!”

“All I can think about right now” Sheridan said with feigned seriousness, “is how much I want you. How much I want to make love to you.” She started giggling as she was unable to fake being serious for long. She raised her head slightly and whispered seductively in his ear, “I love you Luis and I want you now!” She leaned back and gave him a sexy smile. She knew by the look on his face and the blush of his cheeks that she'd gotten to him.

“Again?” he teased. “You are one tough lady to please! But, I guess a man's gotta do what a man's gotta do!” Luis then leaned in and kissed her passionately on the lips. She responded immediately and the two were soon lost in their love for each other.

Ivy sat quietly for a few moments. She needed to absorb everything she had just heard. Finally she spoke. “Ethan, I'm rather surprised that you would think of blackmailing Julian.” Ivy always referred to his “father” as Julian because she knew better. “Although, I can't come up with any other solution. In order to get the better of those two scoundrels, you need to play the game the same way they do. Dirty.” Her voice was filling with venom. “A threat like this is exactly what you need to make Alistair and Julian back off. There is no way, either of them would allow those pictures to go public. They'd rather have Sheridan marry Luis and you marry Theresa, for that matter, than have that video made public.” Ivy now was laughing as she thought about Julian being caught on tape.

“Just make sure you protect that tape at all costs!! Make a few copies of it. Give Julian one of them, so he knows you are serious.“ Ivy was now smiling devilishly. “Make a copy of it for me too, Ethan” she asked. “It will be good leverage. I just wish I'd thought of it.”

The story went on to explain the events of the last two days. It briefly explained Sheridan's involvement in it and how Luis happened to be in Boston. Luckily however, it didn't go into details of Sheridan's involvement with Luis. Nor did it mention anything about his past episodes of saving her life. It was a straight forward news story about the arrest of one suspect and death of another. What no one counted on was the picture of Sheridan and Luis being on the front page of the Boston globe.

“Are you going to sit there and tell me you didn't enjoy last night?” Ivy questioned. “You certainly were acting like the old Sam I knew. I haven't felt like this since the last time we made love, all those years ago. I know you felt it too, Sam.”

“Yes” he said. “Sheridan said they overslept. “She sounded weird on the phone, too,” Ethan reported densely. “Like she'd just come back from running or something.” Ethan made a face like he was deep in thought, not having a clue as to what he just said.

“Sheridan's right” Luis said. “I can't remember the last time I slept that well. I mean, I haven't had much sleep in the last few days and I guess I caught up on it last night... Sleep I mean.” Luis was speaking rapidly and was nervous as well, though he didn't know why.

“So let's see that paper” he said quickly changing the subject. He picked up the newspaper and held it where both he and Sheridan could look at it together. Both of them started to grin as they read the headlines and looked at the picture.

Sheridan smiled as she looked up at Ethan. “You are definitely right, Ethan. We do need to get back to Harmony. Today” Sheridan said. “As much as I'd like to stay here for the rest of the week, I need to settle this with Father and Julian as quickly as possible. I will no longer have them interfering in my life.”

“Once I deal with Father and Julian, I will be moving out of the cottage. If that means I am to be disinherited, then so be it. Although both of you have been wonderful to me, I cannot live in a family where my own father and brother would be so deceptive, so conniving as to hire an impostor to break up any relationship I may have had with Luis.”

“Thanks to Ivy” Sheridan gave Ivy a very warm smile, “Their plan not only backfired, but it brought Luis and me closer. So close in fact, we will not tolerate interference from anyone. That is why I need to use the tape against Julian and move out of the cottage.”

“Good for you, Sheridan” Ivy said beaming at her. “It's about time someone stood up to those bastards. If you need anything, anything at all, please don't hesitate to ask? I know it's going to be tough, if you lose your trust, but I have a feeling you are going to be just fine!”

Sam, Ivy, Ethan, Luis and Sheridan ate breakfast while they discussed plans for their return to Harmony. It was decided that Ivy, Ethan and Sheridan would leave in the Crane Jet, with Sam and Luis taking them to the airport. Luis would return his rental car at Logan Airport's car rental place, then return to Harmony with Sam. Sheridan decided that she would face Julian alone. There was no need to let him know Ethan was involved. Luis was so mad at him, she was afraid he might do something stupid. She then planned on taking her car and meeting Luis at his house. She had no reason to go back to the cottage as she had emptied it out before she left for Paris. He was going to say nothing to his family, until Sheridan arrived.

Ivy was being great during this whole situation. She told Sheridan she would take care of Sheridan's hotel bill and have her things sent there from Paris. Sheridan declined the offer for her to pay the hotel bill, but accepted her offer to have her thing sent from Paris. Sam offered Sheridan a room at the Bed and Breakfast, until she found a place of her own. Luis encourage Sheridan to take it, knowing the close proximity of the Bennett's to his own house. Sheridan graciously accepted, telling Sam she would pay for her room, just as anyone else. Sam and Sheridan argued the point, finally coming to a compromise. If Sheridan retained her trust fund, she could pay, otherwise the room was on the house.

Luis also offered Sheridan a job at the Youth Center, full time. He told her the pay wasn't great, but it would keep her going until she found something else. He knew her skills at fundraising and how great she was with the kids. He also didn't mind the idea of seeing her at work everyday.

“Before we all leave to pack, I just wanted to thank all of you for your help.” She looked at each and everyone of then, her face glowing with happiness. “I don't know what would have become of me had each of you not helped. Now I think we should be going before I start to cry.

Sheridan stood up with Luis right behind her. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. He gave her a big grin and she smiled back at him through misty eyes. “Remind me to thank you later” she said as they left the dining room. The rest of the group stood up as well, going to their rooms to pack for the trip home.

Everyone was aboard the Crane Jet. Plans were being finalized. Sam had called Grace and informed her Sheridan would be staying at the B&B, so her room would be waiting for her. Sam would get a key to Luis for Sheridan, since she would be going directly to the Lopez-Fitzgerald house after leaving the Crane Mansion. Almost no one stayed at the B&B during the winter. Mostly tourists use it in the summer, so Sheridan would have the place to herself.

Sam had also arranged for Ethan and Ivy's cars to be taken to the airport. They had been in the police station back lot for the last few days. All the paperwork had been filled out with the Boston P.D. in regards to Sheridan's poisoning and near kidnapping. All that was left were good-byes.

“Luis knows I would do anything for him Sheridan” Sam said. “I must tell you, I was a little apprehensive when he first started dating you. I know what members of your family are capable of, only too well.” Sam's smile faded, but only for a moment. “I have to tell you though, when I saw the two of you together, I knew you were meant for each other. I also believe that what you are doing is the right thing. No one should let their family stand in the way of their happiness. I understand it can be difficult, maybe even impossible to stand up for yourself. I'm just very glad you will be able to do that.”

Sam said goodbye to Ethan and Ivy and told Luis he would meet him at the car. He then exited the jet, giving one last glance to Ivy who had been staring at him the whole time. He gave a slight grin out of the corner of his mouth as he left.

“I'd be lying if I said I wasn't” Sheridan admitted. “I'll be all right Luis. Don't worry about that. Julian and Alistair have changed the course of my life for the last time. Besides, Ethan promised to show us the video of Julian during the flight. This way, I'll have all the ammunition I need.”

Ivy laughed sardonically. “I'm the one that shot Julian after I caught him in bed with that little tart, remember? My only regret is I used blanks instead of real bullets. Let's see what kind of games he plays with the little slut!”

Sheridan sat and watched, her mouth open the entire time. She occasionally let out a guttural laugh, as she watched in disbelief her proper, snobbish brother engaging in sexual escapades she'd never believed possible with anyone, never mind a Crane.

“I think I should be asking for the entire Crane fortune, rather than just my freedom” Sheridan said jokingly. “Ethan. It will work. There is no way, Alistair Crane will ever let this tape be publicized. Please tell me you have the master copy well hidden?” Sheridan new he did, but needed to ask anyway.

“You know I do” Ethan said with a smile. “I only wish my last name wasn't Crane,” he said, the smile disappearing. “To think, only a few days ago, I told Father I was proud of my family history. Proud to have the Crane name. Money and recognition are nice, but not if one has to follow in Father or Grandfather's steps. Sheridan you are the lucky one. Once you are married, you can change your name and never look back. I can't.”

Sam was beside himself. He was totally guilt ridden for having slept with Ivy. He loved Grace, more than anything. He never intended to hurt her. She must never know what happened between himself and Ivy. Still, making love with Ivy had brought back all the feelings from his past. He had been so in love with her, it almost killed him when she left him for Julian Crane. Finding out that her marriage to Julian had been a total sham all these years didn't help. He never really stopped to think of how unhappy she might have been.

`The Cranes are definitely evil people' Sam thought to himself. `Poor Ivy, stuck in a loveless marriage for all these years with Julian. Forced to marry him by Alistair and her father. Still, I was the lucky one. I met Grace. She saved me after I lost Ivy. I never believed I would love again, but I did. My God, what have I done!'

“Huh?” Sam snapped out of his thoughts. “Yeah, fine Luis.” Without realizing what he was saying, Sam continued. “Luis I am really happy that you and Sheridan got this whole mess straightened out. Be happy you found out now what really happened. Be grateful you didn't find out 20 years from now when you were both married to different people. Both had children and Sheridan had been living an empty loveless life with some rich clown her family forced her to marry.” Sam had a look of a man who was speaking from experience. Luis figured out a few days earlier, but till now, said nothing.

“I understand Sam” Luis said. “I'm sorry you've had to go through all of this. I really understand now why Ivy helped Sheridan and me out, at the possible cost of her own future. She was trying to make sure another couple didn't have to suffer the way she did, when she was forced to leave you for Julian.”

“I've said it before and I'll say it again. Those Cranes, most of them that is” Luis said contemptuously, “Are evil people. They care nothing about who they hurt to get what they want. I only wonder how Sheridan and Ethan managed to turn out so different from the rest.”

Sheridan Crane walked boldly into Julian's study, finding him in his usual position sitting at his desk with a glass of brandy in his hand. He was talking on the telephone and didn't see her walk into the room. Ivy and Ethan remained in the foyer not wanting to be seen. They made sure they were in earshot though, in case Sheridan needed some assistance. Sheridan was determined to do this on her own. She didn't want to involve anyone else if possible.

“Cut the bull, Julian” Sheridan spat out. “I know what you and Father did. Just for your information, it didn't work. Not only didn't it work, it brought the two of us closer than we ever thought possible. We're in love Julian! And there is nothing you or Father can do to change that!” Sheridan was practically screaming at Julian. Her eyes were like piercing daggers, aimed at her brother.

Julian acted shocked. “This is unbelievable. It is an outrage that my sister would fall in love with a low life cop that was using her! Surely you didn't believe him when he told you it wasn't him?” Julian laughed wickedly, trying to hide his worry. “Why Sheridan, that's the oldest ploy in the book. And you fell for it. Tsk, Tsk, dear Sheridan” Julian said as he bowed his head in feigned sadness.

“Shut up Julian. I don't ever want to hear you speak of Luis in that manner again. He is ten times the man you will ever be.” Sheridan felt great telling her brother off like this. She seemed to gain more strength and courage with each word she spoke. “He doesn't spend his days trying to break up other peoples relationships by hiring impostors.”

Stop playing games, Julian” Sheridan roared. “This game is over. The only reason I came her today was to tell You and Father to stay the HELL out of my life. Luis and I love each other and want to be with each other. I finally found the one man that can love me for who I am, and I WILL NOT lose him again. Do you hear me?”

Julian was now laughing. “Oh I hear you, dear sister,” he said in the midst of his laughter. “But let me tell you something.” Julian's laugh had now stopped and he was looking at Sheridan. His eyes cold and black. His face contorted in fear (of Alistair) and anger. “Alistair Crane wants you to stay away from Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald. No one disobeys Alistair Crane without dire consequences. If you pursue your LOVE,” Julian said the word love like it was the bubonic plague, “affair with Luis, the impostor incident will look like a “G” rated movie. Do you understand me?”

Sheridan didn't flinch. She continued her staring of Julian for a moment, then her face softened, turning into a smile. “All right Julian” Sheridan said quietly still smiling. “I didn't want to do this but you leave me no other choice. If you or Father, does anything to hurt Luis or me in anyway, I will make this family the laughing stock of Harmony. The Crane name will be ridiculed for years to come.”

Sheridan reached into her purse and pulled out a video tape. She waved it in the air like she was waving a carrot in front of a horse. “The contents of this tape is why you will leave me alone Julian” Sheridan smiled slyly. “Unless of course you want everyone in your beloved country club to see you dressed up as a bull. Mooooooo! Mooooooo!“ Sheridan laughed wickedly.

“I wonder how Father would feel to see excerpts of his son's kinky love life on the cover of every tabloid in the country? Just imagine what would happen to Crane Industry stock when the find out the man running it plays with a milk maid at night?” Sheridan was enjoying watching Julian squirm. Really squirm. She'd never been able to get the best of him. Not for long anyway. This time she had. “Poor Ivy!” Sheridan continued, “she'll be disgraced. She'd have no choice but to divorce you. The shame. And Ethan? What kind of a future would he have, with everyone knowing what kind of a man you really are?”

“O.K. Julian,” Here's the deal” Sheridan said with authority. “You and Father stay out of my life. No more tricks. No more schemes. You let Luis and me live our lives. For that, I will never show this tape to anyone else.” She tossed the tape on Julian's desk.

That's about it,” she said with a smug look on her face. She turned and started to leave the study. “Oh, one more thing. I've moved out of the cottage. I will not live in a family where its members treat me the way you and Father have treated me. Tell him good-bye for me will you?” Sheridan walked out of the study, leaving Julian in total chaos.

Luis had arrived home half an hour ago. He was pacing the kitchen as he waited for Sheridan. He had managed to avoid answering any of his mothers questions for the time being. She knew something was up, but figured Luis would tell her in his own good time.

Luis grabbed a can of coke from the fridge and walked into the living room continuing the same pacing. He was so absorbed in his thoughts he never heard the knock on the back door. Pilar answered it, surprised to see Sheridan standing there.

“I did intend to do that, Pilar. It's a long story and I promise I will tell you shortly, but I really need to see Luis for a moment” Sheridan said with a small smile. She was trying not to give anything away. Not yet. “Is he here?”

Luis bolted into the kitchen and stopped dead when he saw Sheridan. Pilar followed him into the kitchen. Luis searched her face. He wanted to know what had happened. Suddenly he saw a huge grin appear on Sheridan's face and he knew. He started to laugh. Pilar watched in disbelief.

Luis obeyed. He stopped swinging Sheridan and gently let her down. He then pulled her into a passionate kiss. A very passionate kiss. Pilar knew that somehow they had managed to overcome their differences. She was happy for them and distressed at the same time. She also knew the Cranes.

Pilar was speechless when they were finished. Finally she said, “Sheridan, you know I've always loved you as if you were one of my own. I didn't want Luis to get involved with you romantically, as I was afraid something terrible would happen, which it did.” Pilar was now smiling. “But if this tape of yours is what you say it is, I know Alistair Crane will never chance it being leaked out. He cares too much about the Crane name. I am beginning to believe you may have a future together.”

“How could I not, Luis?” Pilar smiled. “Sheridan is a wonderful person. And I don't think I have ever seen two people who affect each other the way you two do. I think fate brought you together. Now I sound like Theresa !” Pilar laughed.

Luis and Sheridan took the short walk to the B&B. Sheridan knew it was close to Luis' house, but didn't realize it was less than a two minute walk. Luis took the key Sam had given him and opened the door. They walked in and found a note on the desk telling Sheridan room number Three had been fixed for her. Grace also said in the note, that Sheridan was to feel free to use the kitchen anytime she wanted. Grace had left a casserole and an apple pie for them, knowing they'd be hungry after their long day. Sheridan couldn't believe how sweet Grace had been.

They climbed the stairs to room number Three, finding it to be a very spacious room, the only room in fact with it's own bathroom. It had a huge king-size four poster bed and beautiful antique mahogany furniture. There was a small living area with a comfortable couch and chair, and fresh flowers were in vases everywhere. It was the warmest feeling room, Sheridan had ever been in.

“I think I'm going to like it here Luis,” Sheridan smiled at him. “I can't believe how close it is to your house” she smiled seductively as she thought about the close proximity of Luis' house. “I can't think of a better place to live.”

Sheridan felt a shiver go through her entire body as she heard the tone of his voice. Luis pulled her into a sweet kiss, which slowly intensified. Sheridan responded as she savored every kiss, every touch. She moaned lightly as Luis kissed her neck, causing her to feel his lingering kisses everywhere. “Oh, Luis!” Sheridan moaned with delight, “This is what I call a great way to start a new life.” She managed a smile before she found his lips and kissed him heatedly. The two of them, started undressing each other, as they made their way to the bed. Sheridan was in her new home now. She was with the man she loved, and her family would be leaving her alone. What could possibly be better than that?