YGM~~ The Adventure Continues

Luis didn't seem to hear her. His continued stabbing at his eggs completely oblivious to what he was doing, as he stared aimlessly across the room. Pilar noticed how distracted her son was right now and hadn't seen him this nervous in months.

“Luis?” She called a little louder, hoping to get his attention. He still didn't answer and Pilar knew something was definitely bothering him right now. “Luis!” She called again, this time loud enough to shake Luis from his reverie.

“Is it anything I can help you with?” Pilar asked. She grabbed her cup of coffee from the counter and sat down at the table across from her son. She hoped Luis still felt as if he could confide in her. She's always prided herself on the close relationship she had with her children, especially Luis.

“I don't know Mama” Luis said thoughtfully as he finally put his fork down on his plate. Somehow eating was the last thing on his mind at the moment. “Let me ask you a question. How long did you and Papa date before he asked you to marry him?” Luis lowered his eyes, slightly embarrassed to ask his mother such a personal question, yet knowing she would give him honest advice.

“Si” Pilar continued, noticing the sad look on Luis' face. “Martin had been stationed in New Mexico and was being recalled to Harmony. It is customary in my country to court for a year, but since Martin was leaving, my uncle consented.”

Pilar laughed. “Luis, I understand many people do not believe in love at first sight, but I must tell you, that is the way it was for your father and I. Had he asked me to marry him after two weeks, I would have happily agreed.”

Pilar shook her head slowly, though she smiled slightly. “Mijo, I must say I am a little surprised at the suddenness of all this. I know how you feel about Sheridan, but Luis, the two of you just started dating.”

“I know Mama” Luis admitted. “It's crazy, I know that. I dated Beth for 10 years and never even seriously thought about marrying her, even when things were good between us. Now, after a few weeks, that's all I can think about.”

“Oh yeah” Luis said, a dreamy look coming over his face. “I can't even begin to tell you how much Mama. All I can tell you is that I love her more than life itself and my love for her grows tenfold each day. I wake up in the morning and the first thing I want to do is see her. All day at work, she's all I can think about and whenever we're together…” Luis felt a blush creeping into his cheeks and couldn't tell his mother how he felt whenever he and Sheridan were alone together. “Let's just say that I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that Sheridan is the only woman I want.”

Luis smiled. “Yeah, she is Mama” Luis said. “I know we've only been dating for a month, but we've actually known each other for much longer. Mama, we know things about each other that some couples never learn. I used to laugh at such things but I truly think we're soul mates.”

Pilar smiled ruefully. She knew what it was like to feel that way. She still remembered the deep love she and Martin shared. “I understand Luis. As long as you are doing the what is right for you, you and Sheridan have my blessing.”

“I don't know if I ever thanked you for what you did for Sheridan growing up. We've had lots of talks about our childhoods and besides her mother, her only fond memories are of you. I could kill the Cranes for the way they treated that wonderful woman, but at least she had you.” Luis held his mother tightly as he thought about the torment Sheridan had gone through as a little girl.

Luis followed his mother into her bedroom. He stood next to her silently as she opened the hope chest at the foot of her bed and pulled out a ornately painted wooden box. Carefully she opened the box, revealing several other small boxes. She pushed the small boxes aside until she found the one she was looking for, a dark blue one with a silver border.

Pilar stood up holding the box in her hands, staring at it as if recalling a wonderful memory. “Luis, I want you to have this. It was your grandmother's and she always wanted your father to give it to his first son that married.

Luis' felt his pulse quicken as he took the blue container from his mother. Taking a deep breath, he carefully opened the box, revealing an antique sapphire and diamond engagement ring. Luis stared at his mother in disbelief.

Pilar smiled. “It is magnificent isn't it? Your nana wore it proudly until the day she died. From what I understand, the stones have been in the Fitzgerald family for generations, though the setting has been changed several times.”

Luis laughed. “Oh, I think she'll say yes Mama” he said. “At least I hope she will. I'll go email her right now and ask her if she'd like to have dinner with us tonight, but I won't tell her why.”

Sheridan emerged from her bedroom after dressing for another day of work at the Youth Center. Though summer was long over, Sheridan still got up for work each day, helping Luis out with all the day to day activities of running the Center and was there each afternoon when the after school kids arrived. She loved her job with the kids at the Youth Center. Nothing in her life had ever brought her a greater sense of satisfaction as working with those kids, not to mention she got to work with the man she loved on a daily basis. Much as he'd done when he and Sheridan first met, Luis stopped by the Youth Center on his way home from work each day and spent his days off from the station there as well.

Sheridan walked over to her computer to check her mail, as was her habit each morning. She and Luis had agreed that whoever woke first would email the other. A smile appeared on her face when she realized that PezzMan beat KCGirl to the punch this morning.

How is the most beautiful woman in the world this morning? I trust you are well this morning Angel. Today is my day off from the station and I can't wait to spend the day with you J. I have something special in mind for us and I think I can get Buzzy to cover for us so we can do it.

Oh sweetie, I can't wait until I see you this morning. Each day that passes makes it more difficult to spent one minute away from you. I know we saw each other last night and chatted online when we got home, but somehow it's not enough. I love you Sheridan. I love you more each day than the day before. It's incredible, you know that? Anyway, if you like my idea… Wait, I don't want to spoil the surprise.

Sheridan sighed contentedly and returned the email. “I love you too, Luis.” Though each knew the other's identity, when they emailed each other they still enjoyed using the other's cyber name in the emails. KC and Pezz were part of who they were and they both wanted to maintain that connection as well as that of Sheridan and Luis.

Sheridan closed her email and went to her bedroom to retrieve her laptop. When she had everything she needed for the day, including a change of clothes so she could have dinner at Luis'. She left her cottage wondering what on earth Luis was up to…

Luis found himself running all morning to make sure he had everything ready for his lunch with Sheridan. Normally, Luis was one who liked to think things out until he'd covered every possible scenario in his head, but this time it was different. He knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Sheridan Crane and he didn't need to think about anything else.

He knew money would be tight with the two of them living off a cop's salary. He also was no stranger to pinching pennies. He'd learned how to make money stretch before and this would be no different. He recognized as well this was going to be a big adjustment for Sheridan, but she assured him she didn't care about the Crane money. Sheridan's father told her that if she continued to see Luis she would be cut off without a penny, but so far he hadn't. Luis had a feeling though that if Sheridan accepted his marriage proposal, it wouldn't be far off.

Sheridan had told Luis about the trust fund she would get when she married, unfortunately for her, her marriage had to be approved by the Crane board of trustees in order for her to collect it. Luis knew Alistair would never allow that and frankly didn't care, but he hated for Sheridan to be treated in this manner. Sheridan assured him she didn't want or need the money and besides, once she'd been happily married for five years, the money would revert to her, regardless. Only a few weeks ago had Sheridan found out from a friend in Paris that her trust fund was Jean Luc's true motives for wanting to marry Sheridan. Sheridan was hurt initially, but when Luis explained to her that they might not have met had she and Jean Luc not broken up, Sheridan immediately calmed down. She told him that night, that meeting and getting to know him (Luis) had been the best thing that had ever happened to her in her life.

Luis made his rounds of Harmony as best he could, given his time frame. He had a special day planned for Sheridan and a special way of asking her to become his wife. He smiled to himself when he thought about her initial reaction when she arrived at the Book Café for lunch. As Luis checked his own watch, he realized it was almost time to meet Sheridan, so he quickly headed home to change. When he was in his room, he couldn't fight the urge to email his pal Jay in California. After all, Jay had been instrumental in getting the two of them together this summer.

Jay groaned as she rolled over in bed, noting the time was nearly nine o'clock. This was her only day off this week and she'd slept in. Ever since her return to Beverly Hills a month ago, Jay had been working constantly. She'd spent every spare minute she had catching up on her caseload that had piled high in her absence.

“I guess I'd better get up” Jay said yawning to herself. “Lots to do today and little time to do it.” Jay climbed out of bed and went to her kitchen to put on a pot of coffee. She knew she couldn't make it through the day without her morning caffeine.

Several minutes later, Jay was about to settled herself down to read her newspaper with her coffee, when she happened to glance over at her computer and noticed she had new mail. She groaned inwardly, hoping it wasn't the station trying to contact her, as she'd turned her beeper off last night.

She thought for a brief minute to ignore it, but being the conscientious detective she was, couldn't. She walked over to her computer and was both relieved and pleased to see that her mail wasn't from the station, but she had two pieces of mail; one from Sheridan, the other from Luis.

“Oh good” she smiled. “I've been wanting an update on the hottest couple in Harmony.” Jay grabbed her mug and sat down at the computer to read. She stared at her coffee mug, smiling reminiscently, as it was the one Sheridan had given her before she left Harmony. She glanced happily at all the smiling faces of the Youth Center gang, remembering what a fantastic summer she'd had. As much as she complained about her increased workload since her return to Beverly Hills, in a way she was grateful, because she didn't have to think about how much she missed everyone in Harmony.

Hi! How are you? I hope this letter finds you well. The last email I received from you sounded like they were working you to death. I hope things have calmed down slightly for you. I can't imagine trying to catch up with that much work.

The Youth Center is so different now than it was the last time you were here! For one thing, I'm pretty much the only one here during the daytime. Don't get me wrong, I keep myself busy, but it's just not the same. I miss having you around Jay, both you and Buzzy. We really did have a good time together this summer didn't we?

It's only been a month since Luis and I have started dating, but Jay I have to tell you, he is the most amazing man I've ever met. I never thought it possible to be so in love. Jay, he is so romantic and caring and considerate. I can't even begin to tell you. I hate being apart from him even if it's for a few hours. I think about him all the time when we're not together and can't wait until we see each other.

Oh and Jay, when we are together, it's like something out of a fairytale. That man is simply the most romantic man on earth! Almost every evening Luis holds me in his arms and we watch the sun set together and if it's not too cold, we'll walk along the beach and watch the moon dance off the waters. There is no better feeling in the world than being wrapped in his arms. I have a feeling of love and security that I've never known. Just writing this to you, thinking about him makes me long to be in his arms.

My life is finally complete Jay. Luis is the man I've been looking for my whole life. I've had other men in my life, but there was always something missing. Those men were only using me for my name or trust fund or for what men generally use women for, but not Luis. He doesn't want my money (which I won't have for long since Alistair has threatened to cut me off if I don't stop seeing Luis)

Or my name, (we both knows what he thinks of the Crane name) and he's been a perfect gentleman. Don't get me wrong Jay, I dream about Luis all the time, but we both know this relationship is different than those in our past. Our love for each other is something that is so far beyond a physical relationship that we want to completely explore it before making love. As much as I love Luis and would love to be with him, what we have with each other is so wonderful I want to cherish and savor every moment. I know that's how Luis feels as well. I must tell you though, that man knows how to kiss! Boy does he! :)

Well Jay, I have to go to work now and bring in more donations for the Youth Center. Things are really looking up for next year's activities. I hope you can come back next summer and join us for awhile. We'll have even more fun than we did this summer!

P.S. I see Tammy just about everyday and she's doing fantastic! She's in the first grade now and is the smartest girl in her class. (Can you tell I'm biased?) She told me to say “Hi” the next time I wrote to you.

How's it going these days? Getting caught up on work I hope? Things here have been pretty slow since tourist season is over. Then again, things in Harmony are never really that exciting. I did have exciting this summer with that shooting and given the choice, I'll take slow thank you very much.

Jay, I know you're probably going to think I'm crazy, but I've never been saner. Jay, I have to tell you, I was very happy when Sheridan and I got together. I knew I loved both her and her alter ego KC and it was the best feeling in the world to me at the time. This past month though has me rethinking everything. How is it possible, I ask myself everyday? Jay, the woman is totally amazing and I find myself falling deeper and deeper in love with her by the minute. She's all I think about day and night. She totally consumes my thoughts and I don't want to be apart from her even for one night.

“Woo Hoo!” Jay shouted at the top of her lungs as she read Luis' email. Normally Jay would think this was too soon for anyone to consider marriage, but she'd seen first hand how right these two were for each other and she also knew Luis was not one to rush into things. If he wanted to marry Sheridan, she had a feeling it was something that had been on his mind for awhile. Probably since before they started dating.

You probably think this is a spur of the moment decision, but I know now what I want in my life and what I want is Sheridan. I want her beautiful eyes to be the last thing I see before I go to sleep at night and I want her radiant smile to be the first thing I see when I wake up in the morning. I know you know this already Jay, but you were so right about Sheridan, so right about us. I'll never be able to thank you enough for giving me the proverbial kick in the butt that I needed. I can't imagine my life without her.

Jay started laughing. “A Christmas wedding? Only seeing you and Sheridan marry could get me to Harmony in the dead of winter my friend.” Jay logged off, her mood set for the day. Something told her she was going to talking to Luis before the day was out, so she needed to get her errands done. As she dressed for the day, she couldn't get happy thoughts out of her head. As much as she hated New England winters, nothing could stop her from seeing Luis and Sheridan become man and wife.

Sheridan busied herself at the Youth Center going over the budget for the coming year. She'd never had to deal with a budget in her life, but had a good head for figures and Luis taught her what she needed to know. She was shocked to say the least at the way Luis and Buzzy had to fight the town council for every cent they received. It was very frustrating to her, knowing what a good cause the Youth Center was, yet no one seemed to care. She made it her personal mission to help increase revenue for the center for the upcoming year and in the few weeks she'd been doing it on her own, had made progress. Luis was impressed the way she was able to finesse money from the businessmen in the town. It helped immensely having the owner of Matushek and Company, Alfred Kralik and his son Robert as big supporters of the Youth Center. Anytime a potential donator asked what the Youth Center offered those in the community, Sheridan always had Alfred and Robert there to speak.

Luis and Buzzy alike were impressed with Sheridan's fund raising abilities. Though it was all new to her, Sheridan found it very satisfying to find ways to raise money for the Youth Center, rather than just making the donation herself. She knew Luis would never allow it and she would never think to insult him by offering. She knew the reason why Luis hated the Cranes and what they stood for and although she couldn't confirm or disprove his reason, she understood his anger. Though she didn't wish her family harm the way Luis did, she had no love for most of them either. Her father and Julian had never given her the time of day unless it was to berate her or make her life miserable. And now, with Alistair threatening to disown her, she wanted even less to do with her family.

Sheridan glanced at her watch and saw that it was nearly noon. “I have to meet Luis at the Book Café in a few minutes!” she said excitedly. Sheridan quickly put away the files she was working on, gathered her purse and laptop and headed out the door to meet Luis for lunch. She was always excited to see him, but there was something mysterious about his email this morning that made her even more anxious to meet him today.

Sheridan walked into the Book Café with her laptop slung over one shoulder and her purse over the other. She scanned the tables hoping to see Luis' handsome face and frowned in disappointment when she didn't see him sitting anywhere. She walked up to the counter wondering if by chance Chad knew anything.

I bet your wondering what I'm up to right about now, am I right? Well sweetie, I have a very special afternoon planned for both of us. For starters, do you know what today is? If you're not sure, I'll give you a hint. I'd love to play a little game with you, like we did over what town I lived in, but now that I know you, there's no way I can wait that long! LOL.

A contented smile appeared on Sheridan's face. “Yes, Pezz, it does help” she said quietly. “It's the third month anniversary of our first emails to each other. I can't believe you remembered that.”

I hope it helped. Don't be surprised I remembered it, Angel. That's a very important date for me. Actually there are several dates I hold near and dear to my heart. Now, with that said this is what I want you to do. Do you remember the red bench in the park we met at this summer?

I know what you're thinking Angel, but I want to change your memory of that bench. I want to try to remove all sad memories from our past, if possible. I've left you a present on the bench. It's a present from Pezz to his Angel. It is something I wanted to give you that day and never had the chance.

Sheridan slowly approached the red bench in Lighthouse Park. This was the one place in Harmony she hadn't been near since the day she had the major fight with Luis. Even the place on the wharf where she'd been attacked was easier for her to think about, but then again, that was also the place where she and Luis began to connect. It was the place Luis saved her life and apologized for hurting her the way he did in this very spot.

True to his word, there was a brightly wrapped package sitting on the bench with a huge silver ribbon adorning it. As she grew closer, she saw there was a card attached to the box with her name on it. She sat down on the bench and took the card from the box and opened it.

I know this bench holds many hurtful memories for you. How well I know, as I am the one responsible for inflicting them and for that I am forever sorry. I know I have apologized for that on several occasions, but it still hurts me to think about the pain I caused you that day. I will say it again dear Sheridan, from the bottom of my heart I am sorry for every horrible thing that happened between us.

Tears of happiness threatened to fall down her cheeks as she unwrapped the ornately decorated box. When she saw what was beneath the tissue paper inside, she gasped slightly. It was a ceramic angel with blond hair, no doubt made by Luis the day the Youth Center took the kids to KC's Kiln. Inside there was a small note that said,

“No, I don't think she'd mind at all” Sheridan said, unable to keep the emotion out of her voice. She was so enamored with her angel, she almost forgot she needed to log onto the Internet to check her email.

Gingerly, Sheridan placed the angel back in the box taking care not to break it. She pulled her cell phone out of her purse and then opened her laptop. “I hope this battery holds out” she muttered as she signed on to the computer. After what seemed like an eternity, she was connected to cyberspace and anxiously checking her mail. She was so excited about getting her next email, she never heard someone approach her from behind.

I know we usually use our screen names in emails and while it's fun to do, I feel this one needs your own beautiful name. I want to tell you that the last three months have been the most wonderful in my entire life. You and I have gotten to know each other in a way that most people never do. Before I even met you in person, I had the chance to meet the real you; your spirit my love, your kind, generous, loving, wonderful spirit. We connected you and I. We are kindred spirits who learned to love the inner beauty of each others' souls, long before we had the chance to meet in the flesh.

My only regret Angel, is I almost ruined our chance at true happiness. Fortunately, thanks to a loving and wise mother and a wonderful friend, it didn't happen. I will be eternally grateful to both of them for making me see what a complete jerk I was to you, for now I know what I was missing. You are truly the most wonderful woman in the world, Sheridan and I love you with my entire heart and soul. With every ounce of my being I love you and it will remain so for all eternity.

Sheridan sat there completely dumbfounded for a moment, staring at the computer screen. The tears she tried to avoid a moment ago, were now falling freely down her cheeks. Slowly, she turned around and saw the face of the man she loved so deeply staring adoringly at her, his smile brilliant.

Luis, his face filled with joy, hopped over the bench and stood next to her. For a brief moment, he just gazed into her incredible, dazzling blue eyes, which were filled with tears of utter happiness. He too felt his eyes mist over, the feeling of total exuberance at her response more than he ever imagined.

“You've just made me the happiest man alive, Sheridan” Luis smiled. He took her in his arms and kissed her soft, sensual lips with such passion Sheridan felt her knees begin to buckle. Luis could feel the heat escalating between them as Sheridan responded to his kisses with more fervor than he'd yet experienced. He felt his body responding to her kiss and knew Sheridan felt it too. With all his strength, he slowed the kiss and finally ended it.

Both of them were breathless, as they held each other tightly. They knew their time would come, but not here and not now. “I love you so much Luis” Sheridan said, gazing into his amorous brown eyes as she rested her head on his shoulder.

Luis handed Sheridan the box. Barely able to breathe, she opened the box and saw the ring. An absolutely breathtakingly beautiful gold ring with a large sapphire, surrounded by small diamonds and a larger diamond at the top.

“Luis, this is the most gorgeous ring I've ever seen!” Sheridan exclaimed, her eyes filling with tears once again as she lifted the ring out of its box, her eyes fixated on it as it sparkled in the sunlight.

Luis beamed. “Of course I will.” Luis took Sheridan's hands in his own and got down on his knee, locking his gaze with hers. “Sheridan Crane, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife? Will you marry me?”

Unable to contain his happiness, Luis slipped the engagement ring on Sheridan's finger. As he looked from the ring to her eyes he noticed something. “The ring matches your eyes perfectly, Angel. The sparkle, the color; there is no color more beautiful in this world.”

Jay pulled into the parking spot on the street in front of the electronics store she'd heard so much about. She was looking for some computer accessories and some of the guys at the station recommended, Scott's Electronics.

It wasn't the sort of place Jay was used to dealing with. Normally she stayed with the larger stores and this was anything but a large store and in a questionable neighborhood to boot. She made sure she locked her car twice before entering the establishment.

As Jay walked inside the store she was visibly impressed. The store was brightly lit and clean to a fault. There were aisles of every brand of computer, as well as what appeared to be every known accessory. Jay laughed at her own thoughts. She knew there were things not there, but the store was so well stocked, it appeared that way. For a few minutes, she just wandered around, trying to find what she came for. Finally she found the right aisle and began searching for a cd burner that was compatible with her computer.

Jay turned around and nearly fainted dead away when she saw what had to be the most incredibly handsome man she'd ever seen, smiling brilliantly at her. She about melted when his dark eyes met with hers and his teeth flashed a dazzling smile.

“Hi!” Jay replied nervously. “I was just looking at the CD writers. I was thinking about getting one for my computer. Some of my buddies told me you have the best shop around and I thought I'd check it out.”

“Jay Jordan” Jay returned as she took Scott's hand. As soon as her hand touched Scott's, she felt a surge of energy shoot up her arm and run through her. She stared at her hand and then looked up into those incredible eyes. In that instant, Jay saw a look of recognition in Scott's eyes that mirrored her own. He felt it too. She knew it.

“Sure thing” Jay replied. She watched for a moment as Scott left, not believing what was happening to her. Try as she might, she couldn't take her eyes off him. She nearly jumped out of her skin when Scott turned around briefly, winked and flashed her a smile.

This time Jay did manage to shift her gaze away from the store manager. She felt her cheeks burning, knowing she'd been caught staring. “Get a grip, Jay,” she told herself as she forced her attention to the computers rather than the manager.

Jay tried hard to focus her attention on the items in front of her, but she kept looking towards the counter at the tall dark man chatting with a customer. Jay's attention was diverted when she felt someone brush roughly past her. She looked up, only to see a very disheveled man wearing a large pair of dark sunglasses and a baseball cap. Something didn't sit right with her when she saw this man and she swore she saw a bulge in his jacket pocket.

Not wanting to be obvious, Jay walked towards the back of the store and followed the man from a distance. Sure enough, he was headed right to the counter where the cash register was. The man stood impatiently behind the customer that Scott was talking to, glancing all around, as if looking for security cameras. Jay ducked when the man's gaze came towards her direction, not wanting to be seen. Even though the man had brushed her earlier, she was pretty sure he was so preoccupied, he hadn't seen her.

Scott finished with his customer and the other man walked slowly up to the counter, keeping his eye on the other customer until he saw him leave. Jay saw him put his hand in his pocket and pull out a gun, placing it at Scott's head.

Jay immediately called the station from her cell phone and informed them there was a robbery in progress. She quickly clipped her phone to her pants, taking care to leave the line open and inched her way towards the front without being seen.

The bandit looked around anxiously. Scott took the opportunity to see if he could locate Jay. If she wasn't pulling his leg about being a detective… He then spotted her crouched down along a side aisle. Jay saw Scott glance her way and held a finger up to her lips. Scott lowered his eyes as an affirmative response.

The man hesitated for a moment and then nodded towards Scott. He was very nervous and leaned over the counter to make sure the store manager wasn't trying to pull a fast one on him. Scott shuffled some papers around, looking for a bag under the counter, while Jay took this as her cue to attack. Silently she ran up towards the counter. Just as the robber was standing up with Scott, Jay made her move. Before the assailant knew what hit him, Jay jumped him, knocking the weapon from his hand and pinning his arm behind his back. She threw his head onto the counter, holding him down in a textbook police hold.

“Good work Detective” the officer said. “This punk fits the description of a guy we've been after for a few months. He's been hitting all the sole proprietorships in Santa Monica for the last few months. I guess he hasn't hit Beverly Hills yet.”

“You guys need to be thanking Mr. Mayne here as well” Jay replied, nodding towards Scott. Scott looked up when he heard his name mentioned and stared intensely at Jay. “He's got good instincts and is very quick thinking. I don't know if I would have been able to apprehend the perp without him.”

"Sure thing” Jay replied. Jay started walking out with the officer and stopped before reaching the door and turned to say something to Scott. When her eyes met with his, that crazy insane feeling came over her again. `I'm going to have to thank the guys at the station for recommending this place to me' she thought happily.

She chuckled to herself as she walked out of the store. Once she reached her car, she realized she hadn't even gotten what she came for. A slow grin appeared on her face when she realized what that meant. “I'll just have to come back.”

“Luis, can we stop by the Youth Center quickly before we go to your house?” Sheridan asked, as she gazed happily at her engagement ring. Luis had just turned over the engine as they were leaving Lighthouse park after a romantic picnic lunch.

“Your flower girl? Ooh, I can't wait! I'd love to be your flower girl!” Tammy didn't know what a flower girl was exactly, but it sounded important to her and if Sheridan asked her to do it, she would without question.

Robert seemed to be taken back to a happier time in his life when he thought about his deceased wife, which in turn brought back all of the sad memories. He didn't have time to dwell on it however, since Tammy decided she was going to talk nonstop as she and her father left the Youth Center.

Luis noticed Sheridan's watching Tammy leave with her father with a longing stare and knew what she was thinking. He leaned over and whispered in her ear. “Soon enough Angel, you'll have a little girl of your own.”

“Sounds wonderful, Luis” Sheridan grinned. Each day when Sheridan woke, she decided life couldn't get any better and by night fall she found out she was wrong. Life did get better and today was the best yet. Today, Luis asked her to marry him and her dreams were about to finally come true.

Luis' eyes shone with pride, knowing that the one woman to make him happy beyond his wildest dreams wanted complete acceptance into his family. Family meant everything to Luis and knowing Sheridan wanted to be part of that family, just reinforced what he already knew. She was perfect.

“I love you and I know my family feels the same way” Luis smiled, gathering her in his arms. Slowly he leaned in and kissed her tenderly on the lips. Sheridan responded to his kiss with joy in her heart. Never could she remember being this happy, this in love. She slid her arms around Luis' neck, reveling in the feel of his lips on hers. The both reluctantly broke apart when Theresa was heard giggling at the doorstep.

“Of course I remember Sheridan” Theresa laughed. “How could I not? She's all you've talked about for the last month!” Theresa turned her attention to Sheridan. “Hi Sheridan. It's good to see you.”

Theresa, Miguel and Pilar waited anxiously for Luis to tell them what was so important. Luis stared at Sheridan with complete adoration. He then took her hands in his and held her left hand up for all to see. “I asked Sheridan to marry me and she accepted” Luis announced. The two then giggled happily, their faces shining as Pilar had never seen. She felt a rush of love and happiness watching her son and his fiancée she couldn't describe.

The next few minutes were chaos in the Lopez Fitzgerald kitchen as Theresa, Miguel and Pilar offered their heartfelt warm wishes for the happy couple. Pilar was amazed by the depth her son's love went for Sheridan. She knew how deeply he cared for her, but seeing them together was an entirely different experience. Luis and Sheridan were truly meant to be together. She was sure of that now. As sure as she was of her own love for Martin.

Theresa looked crestfallen. This was her chance. Her chance to come clean with her brother about her job with Ivy Crane and hopefully one day she could tell him she and Ethan were getting married… after she'd convinced Ethan that is. “But Luis, I don't understand.”

The smile faded from Sheridan's face. Here it came. The one topic that always left her feeling sad and lonely, her family. Luis instinctively knew Sheridan was bothered by this and held her tightly to him, kissing her head. Sheridan welcomed his warm embrace and rested her head on his shoulder. Almost immediately she felt calmed slightly. One day Luis would be her family and he would never treat her the way Alistair and Julian had.

“Theresa, don't get any of those crazy notions in your head young lady, about how wonderful the Cranes are. Sheridan is different from the rest of her family. What I overcame was my preconceived notion that all Cranes were the same. Sheridan is anything but like the rest of her family.”

Pilar served a fabulous dinner, consisting of many traditional Spanish dishes. Sheridan always loved Pilar's cooking, but there was something about sharing this meal at their dinner table in such a warm and loving environment that seemed to make the food taste so much better than she'd remembered. As marvelous as the food was, the best part of the meal as far as Sheridan was concerned was the conversation. Miguel and Theresa entertained Sheridan with anecdotes of their lives with Luis and the family growing up. Sheridan was kept entertained throughout the entire meal, learning all the little things about her fiancé she knew he'd never tell her.

“Come on guys” Luis laughed, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment as Miguel told Sheridan about Luis' bear blanket that he took with him everywhere. “You never even saw that blanket. You were too young.”

“Don't let him fool you Sheridan” Theresa whispered loudly, making sure Luis heard her. “He carried that blanket around with him for years. I remember seeing him sleep with it when I was a little girl.”

Pilar chuckled to herself at the memory of Luis and his bear blanket. She was washing dishes and didn't notice Miguel slip out of the room. “Don't listen to a word of what she's telling you, Sheridan” Luis said, red-faced.

“You know what Luis?” Sheridan said, sliding her arms around Luis' neck from behind and whispering in his ear. “I can't wait until some day we're watching a scene just like this, only it's our children. The closeness you and your family share is something to be cherished. I never had this growing up, but I'm pleased that soon I'll be part of it with your family.”

“Oh Mama, do you remember this one?” Luis said excitedly as he found a picture of Antonio, Martin and himself on their first fishing trip. Martin was holding what appeared to be a minnow in his hands while both a young Luis and Antonio were holding a small sunfish. The boys were filled with pride holding up their first catch for the camera. Pilar smiled longingly at the photo.

Luis chuckled. “Yeah, I remember that too.” Luis looked at Sheridan and told her the story. “Tony and I had it all figured out how we were going to divide our fish up to eat for dinner. We didn't know we were going to have to throw them back. We thought we were going to starve that night.”

Luis glanced at a photo of the whole family and a large smile came to his face. Martin was standing there with his arms wrapped lovingly around his wife. He and Pilar never looked happier. Luis and Antonio stood on either side of their parents, Luis holding a two year old Miguel and Antonio holding his three year old sister Theresa, while a ten year old Paloma sat smiling on the ground in the middle of the group.

Sheridan grinned as she gazed at the photo of a very happy Lopez Fitzgerald family. Luis and Antonio were young teenagers and there was no doubt that Antonio was much taller than his brother. Sheridan noticed how attractive all the children were, but in her mind, the boy holding Miguel was by far the most handsome.

Pilar felt tears fall down her cheeks. “Yes mijo. That picture was taken only two weeks before your father disappeared. We'd just bought this house and your father wanted a picture of all of us in front of it.”

Luis shook his head, remembering the moment. “I remember now. Papa was talking to Sam's father, Ben Bennett. He was so proud to have finally bought this house and went inside and grabbed the camera. Chief Bennett took the picture of all of us.”

“Such a beautiful family” Sheridan remarked wistfully. She knew how hard it was on Pilar and Luis having Martin and Antonio missing for so long. “Where is your sister,” she asked. “Paloma is it?”

“Paloma went to live with my sister Maria shortly after Martin disappeared” Pilar said, wiping tears from her eyes. She suddenly felt overwhelmed with emotion, missing two of her children and her husband. Luis knew there was nothing he could do at the moment about Martin or Antonio, but he could certainly do something about Paloma.

Without saying a word, Luis walked over to the telephone and dialed a number. He called his Aunt Maria's house on the pretense of telling his sister about his engagement, but truthfully, he did it to allow his mother to talk to her daughter. As soon as Luis had told Paloma the happy news, he handed the phone to his mother. Luis knew Pilar didn't talk to Paloma nearly as much as she wanted, not wanting the long distance phone bill, but right now he knew his mother needed to talk to her daughter. It killed Luis knowing that when his father disappeared, it had torn his whole family apart. Antonio had disappeared shortly after Martin and Paloma went to live with Maria to ease the stress on Pilar. Pilar never quite forgave herself for allowing Maria to talk her into letting Paloma stay with her and when times were better, Paloma didn't want to return to Harmony. It was a difficult decision, but Pilar opted for her daughter's happiness rather than her own. Now she was a college student and at the top of her class.

Luis and Sheridan looked at some more photos while Pilar was on the phone with her daughter. Theresa and Miguel helped Sheridan catch up on Luis' life, until there was a knock at the door and Theresa's best friend Whitney came to visit. This seemed to break up the happy group as Miguel used this opportunity to go visit his new girlfriend Charity at the Bennett's house.

Luis was taken back for a moment until he saw the twinkle in her eye and realized what she was implying. “Thank you for that” he grinned. “Hey, what do you say we go see if Jay emailed me or not? She's probably dying to hear from us.”

“You've already seen where those letters came from, Angel” Luis smiled lovingly at her, while caressing her cheek. “They came from here.” Luis held his other hand over his heart, causing Sheridan's heart to fill with joy. Luis always knew exactly what to say to her to make her feel like the most special, loved woman on earth. “Now, let's go see what Jay wrote.”

“I'll see it the next time I'm at your cottage, don't you worry” Luis smiled. Sheridan smiled back at him, the two sharing an intense gaze before Luis sat down to retrieve his email. Sure enough, there was a note from Jay and with Sheridan nestled snuggly in his arms, the two began to read.

“Shh” Luis soothed, holding a finger up to Sheridan's lips. “Let's not think about what almost happened. Let's concentrate on what has happened and what the future holds for us. We're together now and that's all that matters.”

“Angel, I know exactly how you feel” Luis said holding her tightly against himself. A thought came to Luis' mind and he pulled back slightly to look into the beautiful eyes of his fiancée. “Sheridan, I just realized something. We haven't even discussed when we should get married.”

“You're right” Sheridan responded. “The sooner the better as far as I'm concerned. I hate spending every night away from you. I want nothing more than to feel your arms around me each night, loving me, protecting me. I want that so much Luis.”

“Sheridan, there is nothing I want more, Angel. That's why I thought we could get married right before Christmas. That's a little over two months from now. It's long enough to plan a wedding, but not too long.”

“I was thinking about Christmas Eve” Luis said, excitement shining in his eyes. “We'll be husband and wife before Christmas and can spend the holiday here. Then, after Christmas, we can go on our honeymoon.”

“Oh Luis, I can't wait!” Sheridan exclaimed happily. “Marianna always told me the only way to see Spain is on the arm of the person you love. As many times as I've been there, I've never been there with you.”

Luis had no control over the huge grin that appeared on his face at that moment. He loved this woman more with every breath he took. “Christmas definitely won't come soon enough” he said in a deep voice. He pulled her towards him and kissed her fervently. Luis deepened their kiss and Sheridan groaned, her body heating up as never before. She found herself feeling things every time Luis kissed her that she'd never felt with any other man.

“Sheridan, no matter what, our honeymoon is going to be special, whether we've made love a hundred times before or it's our first time” Luis said. “But you're right. We agreed to wait and we can both survive another few months.”

Sheridan leaned against her cottage door, her smile dreamlike, as she held her hand up so she could take another look at the new ring on the third finger of her left hand. `I'll never tire of looking at it' Sheridan thought as she marveled at the gorgeous ring. As absolutely magnificent the ring was, the fact that it signified her engagement to Luis meant more to her than anything in this world. She was giddy at the thought that in a little over two months, she would be Sheridan Lopez Fitzgerald.

She walked slowly away from the door. Having Luis leave her tonight was hard and she knew it would continue to be difficult, but it would all be worth it soon. Soon she would be living with him as his wife, going to sleep in his loving embrace and waking up the same way. It was all she ever wanted in her life. A man who truly loved her and a family of her own. Luis was that man and she was sure she they would start a family shortly after they married.

Too excited to sleep, Sheridan decided to check her email and then if she was still sleepless, check out her favorite chat room. She and Luis were going to see what note Jay had sent her before she left his house, but things had gotten hot and heavy again between the two and they decided they needed to call it a night. Sheridan sighed deeply as the memory of Luis' hot kisses assaulted her.

Happily, Sheridan signed on and opened the note from Jay. Jay was the first real friend Sheridan made when she came home to Harmony after years abroad and she missed her terribly. She was very grateful however, for modern technology and the ability to keep in constant contact with her.

I don't have to ask how you are - LOL. Luis told me what he was planning for the two of you today, so I know that you are feeling great! Luis will tell me what happened, but I expect to hear all the little details from YOU.

He'll probably tell you about my little adventure today - stopping an armed robbery attempt on my day off. But, I need to tell someone what else happened and I'm not sure that I'm ready to share this with Luis yet. I'm not sure there is anything to share. You can tell Luis if he asks, I'm not

the physical attraction was there, but it was more and I can't seem to describe what it is .. what it was . but it was like nothing I've ever felt before. It was a connection, but that's just crazy as I barely talked to the guy and I don't know anything about him.

Sheridan hit the reply key and began to type. She was happy for her friend, but the details were still very vague. Sheridan hoped that at the very least Jay would be able to meet this man again whoever he was.

“Good morning, Stan” Jay smiled as she walked past him. At the mention of Jay's name, everyone in the station stopped what they were doing and turned towards Jay with smirks on their faces, making her extremely self conscious.

Jay clasped her hand to her mouth and gasped at the sight before her. In a crystal vase on her desk was the most beautiful arrangement of yellow roses she'd ever seen. Her heart began to race, not knowing whom they were from. A quick flash went through her mind that Scott sent them to her and she dismissed it immediately as delusional.

Jay leaned over and inhaled the heavenly fragrance from the flowers and pulled the card from its holder. She saw she had an audience, as she was about to read the card. Stan and several others were standing at her door, waiting to find out whom the flowers were from.

Sorry guys!” Jay said as she walked over to the door. She smiled sweetly and then closed the door for some privacy. Walking back to the arrangement, Jay couldn't keep the grin off her face as she pulled the card from the envelope and began to read.

“Scott” Jay said dreamily as she sighed. Her heart was pounding as all sorts of crazy thoughts raced through her mind. “This really was very nice of him” Jay said, trying to rationalize what had happened. “He's just a very thoughtful man and is appreciative that I helped him out.”

Jay nodded to herself that that had to be the reason for the gift. Regardless of his reasons, the roses were gorgeous, as was the man who sent them. Jay found herself unsure of what she was feeling at the moment.

With her busy schedule, she knew it would be tough, but for this, she planned on making the time. Jay gently picked one of the flowers out of the vase and held it up to her nose, inhaling deeply. She sat down at her desk for a moment and leaned back, contemplating what was really going on, if anything was going on at all. One thing she knew though. She planned on meeting this man again. She had to see if this was merely a physical attraction on her part, or if there was more to it.

Ethan smiled, knowing something wonderful had happened to Sheridan. After her miserable experience with Jean Luc in Paris, Ethan was pleased. “Okay, I'm sitting. What's going on?” He asked with a suspicious smirk.

“Sheridan, you've only been dating him a month” Ethan said, trying to hide his anger. “Don't you think this is a little sudden?” Ethan didn't really have any reason to dislike Luis except for the fact that his father and grandfather hated him and he was the housekeeper's son. He knew Cranes didn't marry out of their class.

“Ethan, don't you start that” Sheridan said firmly, yet she was determined not to let Ethan get to her. Her mood was too good to be brought down from it. “We've known each other longer than a month and the love we share is beyond anything I've ever dreamed of.”

Sheridan stared at her nephew for a moment. She realized it was probably difficult for him to understand, but she was going to try and make him understand. “Yes Ethan. I'm okay with that. I love Luis. It's that simple. The Crane money has never brought me any happiness. As a matter of fact, it's brought me only grief. Luis doesn't have much money, but he's the kindest, most generous person I've ever met. He's given me gifts more precious than Father could ever give me. He's taken me places that no amount of money in this world could take me.”

Sheridan's face lit up as she talked of her love for Luis. Ethan could see Sheridan was indeed happy and he wasn't nearly as pretentious as the other Crane males. “If you're happy Sheridan, then I'm behind you one hundred percent.”

You're right” Luis laughed. “But something big has come up and I was wondering if I could take off the last two weeks of December and the first week of January? I know it's the holiday season and all, but usually things slow down right after Christmas.”

Luis saw the look on Sam's face. He knew he was in for one of Sam's recent “ you don't want to get involved with the Cranes do you' lectures. “Luis! Whoa, this is all so sudden” Sam finally replied. “Isn't this kind of soon to be thinking about marriage? You've only been dating Sheridan now for what, a month?”

Luis defenses were up. He loved and respected Sam as he would a big brother, but also knew that Sam was holding a personal grudge against the Cranes. Luis never gave it much thought before, as he had always gone along with everything Sam ever said about the Cranes. Blind hatred leading blind hatred one might call it, but that was before Luis met Sheridan. That was before that beautiful, high spirited, sexy blonde walked into his life, changing it forever. Never again would Luis judge a person based solely on their last name. That was a hard lesson for him, but one well learned.

“Sam, I know what you're thinking and believe me, the same thoughts have occurred to me. I've thought long and hard about the consequences of getting involved with Sheridan as well as what it will be like to marry her. But you know what Sam? None of it matters to me anymore. My love for Sheridan is based on her, who she is on the inside. She's not like the rest of her family.”

“Sheridan is a beautiful woman” Sam nodded. “And from what Grace has told me about her after her experiences working with her at Youth Center activities, I don't doubt she has a kind heart as well. Grace was very impressed with her. But Luis, do you really want Alistair Crane as a father in law?”

“I'm just trying to remind you of the cold hard facts, buddy” Sam replied. “Marriage is a big step for anyone under any circumstances, but you marrying a Crane. I want to make sure you know exactly what you're doing.”

Luis laughed slightly. “I've asked myself that same question. A rational person doesn't ask a woman to marry him he's dated only a month, right? Sam, even though we've only dated a few weeks, I've known her longer. Sheridan and I have had a relationship for months via the computer. This may sound strange to you, but I feel I've come to know Sheridan better in the few months we've known each other than I ever knew Beth after a ten year relationship.” Luis paused for a moment while he gathered his thoughts. “We're perfect together, Sam.”

Sam could see in Luis' eyes the love he had for Sheridan. In all the time he knew Luis, he'd never seen him so happy, so in love. It reminded him of feelings he once had for a woman now in the Crane family. He hoped Luis and Sheridan's love would be strong enough to withstand whatever the Cranes dished out.

“Thanks Sam” Luis smiled. He shook Sam's hand and left his office. He now had the time off right before the wedding and for the honeymoon. The more he thought about what lay ahead of him, the more excited he became.

Sheridan opened her cottage door, exhausted after her long day at the Youth Center and was surprised to hear soft romantic music playing and a heavenly smell coming the kitchen. As tired as she was, a huge grin appeared on her face, knowing exactly who was slaving away in the kitchen. She dropped her purse and jacket on the chair and made a beeline for the door where her fiancé was working and opened it slightly; stealing a peek at the man she loved. She found Luis putting together a salad just the way she liked it, oblivious to everything else.

With a playful grin, Sheridan silently walked up behind Luis. She was giddy with the anticipation of surprising him. She was deciding in her mind if she was going to tickle him or kiss him when Luis suddenly whipped around and pulled her into his arms, kissing her passionately.

It took all of about five seconds for her initial shock to wear off and succumbed to his advances. Sheridan groaned as the kiss slowly intensified. Just as they were reaching a dangerous level, Luis slowed the kiss, finally ending it leaving them both breathless.

Luis gently lifted her chin until her sad blue eyes met his. “It's all right, Sheridan” he said in a soft tone. “I do know how to cook and I can teach you. As a matter of fact, I'd love to be able to teach you to cook. I'm told the kitchen is a very sexy room.”

“No way! There's a technique involved. Let me show you.” Luis placed Sheridan in front of the salad bowl and stood directly behind her. He placed the tongs in her hands and then placed his hands on hers.

“Okay” Sheridan said. “I'm ready for you to show me your technique.” Sheridan felt her heart begin to race from their closeness. Luis' body was pressed right up against hers, his arms right along side of hers as he gently lifted her hands holding the tongs and together they mixed the salad.

“It's all in the wrist action” Luis said in a slow husky voice directly into Sheridan's ear. Sheridan thought she'd about die when she felt his hot breath in her ear. That along with his firm, muscular body flexing practically on top of her as the two of them gave new meaning to tossed salad.

Sheridan put down the tongs and turned in his arms. “I'm not sorry” she smiled. She then leaned up and kissed him fully on the lips. It was a kiss filled with desire and one that definitely left him yearning for more. “Anytime you want to teach me anything Luis, I promise I'll be a very willing pupil.” Sheridan shot him a sexy glance and then walked away. “I think I'll go set the table now. When Sheridan was back in the living room, she giggled to herself when she heard Luis groan loudly from the kitchen. It was going to be an interesting night.

“Okay, this is what I have on the list so far” Sheridan said as she picked up the piece of paper from the table in front of her. She was finding it difficult to concentrate since Luis was sitting right behind her on the floor, holding her snugly in his warm embrace. “Tomorrow we go talk to Fr. Lonigan and see what times are available for the ceremony on Christmas Eve, and then we ask our best man and maid of honor if they'll be in the ceremony.”

“We haven't decided on where to have the reception,” Sheridan said. So far nothing they'd talked about involved much money, except for her dress, which she planned on paying for. She hoped her father didn't cut her off before it happened.

“Well, I've given that some thought. It will be Christmas Eve when we get married and most people will be busy, not to mention restaurants and country clubs are usually booked long before now, for the holidays.”

So they decided the reception would be held at the Youth Center. The more they talked, the more excited the two became. The hour finally came when Luis had to leave. Neither one wanted the night to end but they knew it must. They kissed good night, a lingering sensual kiss that left them both hot and bothered. When Luis finally left, Sheridan smiled in contentment, knowing that each good night kiss she received from Luis would bring her that much closer to becoming his wife.

Jay arrived home, frustrated after another hectic day at the station. She wanted to stop by the Electronics store on her way home, but her schedule wouldn't allow it. As she was leaving, she found out that two detectives had been injured in a car accident and wouldn't be in for the next few days, so there went any hope of stopping by the store to get the CD burner or thank the owner for his kind gesture of flowers.

Jay fixed her dinner and watched her usual television shows before checking her email, as was her usual routine. An idea popped into her head when she finally made it online and she decided to check it out. Jay went to her favorite search engine and looked up Scott's Electronics. A grin appeared on her face when she found what looked like it might be the right address and clicked it. Sure enough, Scott's Electronics did have a web site.

“I guess I'll have to send an email and ask” she said out loud. Jay had no idea where the email would go to, or to whom it would go. Not wanting to take a chance, she wrote a generic email asking about the CD burner, hoping she'd get a reply. Not only did she want a reply, but she wanted a reply from the owner.

“Don't get your hopes up Jay” she told herself. Jay decided that if she didn't hear something by tomorrow night, she'd have to send Scott a note in the mail, but this would definitely be faster if it worked.

I'm happy for you Jay, at least I think I am! LOL. You sound confused! I've never seen you confused before. For that matter I've never heard you even mention a guy before. There has to be something to this if you are even mentioning it!

Good going on stopping that robbery! I was with Luis when he read your mail and I must say I was impressed. You certainly had a busy day for yourself. Arresting bad guys and meeting the man of your dreams all in the same day? Wow!

Jay couldn't help herself. Even though she'd convinced herself the flowers were just an act of kindness from a thankful store owner, there was still something special about them. She sat down and wrote Sheridan and email telling her about her roses.