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Post by Nicole Will on Dec 18, 2007 12:55:51 GMT -5
Luis just arrived in Los Angeles after an eight-hour flight from New York. He is looking for his hotel, The Beverly Wilshire, and is lost in Los Angeles driving in his rental car.
Chapter One
“Where is it? Maybe I should ask that beautiful blond that is standing by the street over there. Maybe she would help me?” Luis stopped his car right by the sidewalk. “Excuse me. Can you tell me where I can find Beverly Hills?”
After hearing a voice behind her, Sheridan turns around and gazes at the most gorgeous brown eyes she has ever seen. “Did you say something?” Sheridan asked, unable to stop staring at him.
Luis chuckled and said, “Yeah, I am looking for Beverly Hills. Can you give me directions on how to get there?” Luis couldn’t help but think she was beautiful. He just kept staring into her blue eyes.
He was lost in her eyes when he heard her say, “Sure but it is going to cost ya.”
“You can’t be serious. Fine I will find it myself. Thanks anyway.”
Luis was just about to drive off when Sheridan said, “Don’t worry about it. I will show you where to go.”
Luis got a questioned look on his face. “Show? What do you mean?”
“Well, it is easier to get there if you have someone with you who knows where they are going. Right?”
“I guess. Hop on in.” Luis unlocked the door and Sheridan hopped in.
Chapter Two
“So, why are you in LA?” Sheridan asked.
“Well, I have to help my father out with a business merger.”
“How long are you going to be here?” “Good one Sheridan. Now he probably thinks you are hitting on him.” Sheridan thought.
“Luis chuckled to himself when he saw the look in her eyes after she just asked him how long he will be there. He felt a connection to her, but couldn’t figure out why. “I will be here for the week, but maybe longer. It all depends on how fast this merger is going to take place.”
“Oh, I see. Turn right at the corner." Luis suddenly stopped the car. “Why are you stopping?” “I think I could get there faster if you drove. Don’t you think?”
“I have to warn you I am not the best driver.”
“I am sure you will be fine.”
“OK, ready?”
“Yep” and they were off.
Within ten minutes, they were in Los Angeles and Luis was holding on for dear life. “Where are you staying?”
“The Beverly Wilshire,” Luis screamed.
“Sorry about that. I didn’t see the car parked.”
“Are we there yet?”
The tires squealed as the car went around the corner. “Now we are.”
“Thank God. You weren’t kidding when you said you couldn’t drive.”
“That is not nice. I drove you here and I don’t get any thanks. You are a creep.”
“Come on. I am sorry. Forgive me?”
One look into his eyes and Sheridan melted. “Of Course I forgive you. When you give me a look like that, how can I resist.” They both laughed.
“Well I am going to go back to LA now.”
“How are you going to get there?”
“Walk.”
“No you are not. You could get hurt or worse. I will feel responsible if something happened to you tonight. How about I call a taxi and it can take you home.” Sheridan was in tears at Luis’s last statement. “What is the matter?”
“I don’t have a home.”
Chapter Three
“What do you mean that you do not have a home?”
“What do you think? I am HOMELESS!” Sheridan screamed with tears streaming down her face. Luis saw the tears and gently brushed them off with his hands. They both jumped back once they felt electricity going through them both.
“I am sorry. I did not mean to startle you.”
“It is ok. I didn’t mean to cry and yell at you. It isn’t your fault that I lost my job and couldn’t pay rent.”
“Why don’t you come with me and we can get you warmed up and something to eat. I take it you haven’t eaten yet.”
“I haven’t eaten since two days ago. I am hungry and cold. Ok, I accept for now.” They both walked into the hotel and Sheridan was taken back by the beauty of the hotel.
“It is ok. Stay by me and you will be fine.” Luis grabbed onto Sheridan’s hand and the electricity was felt again, except this time neither let go. Sheridan smiled at Luis. “You have a beautiful smile.”
Sheridan blushed and said, “Thanks.” They walked to the elevator and hopped in. Luis pushed the button for the penthouse. The doors opened and Sheridan was astonished at what she saw. The hotel was definitely fancy and out of her price range. Heck, she couldn’t even afford a place to live or even food.
“Would you like me to order you anything in particular from room service?"
“Anything would be fine. I am so hungry now, I could eat anything.”
“By the way, what’s your name?”
“Sheridan. And yours?”
“Luis. Nice to meet you Sheridan.”
“You too Luis.” And they shook hands.
“Here is a menu on what they have for room service. Choose what you want and I will order it.”
“Thanks”
“No problem.”
Within five minutes, Sheridan had decided on a hamburger and fries with strawberry ice cream for dessert. Luis ordered the same thing, but with chocolate ice cream. As they were sitting down and enjoying their dinner, Luis started to make a conversation to get to know Sheridan a little more.
“So how is the burger?”
“Great! I never thought I would enjoy greasy food.” Luis laughed. ”Are you laughing at me Luis?”
“Yes!” Sheridan threw one of her fries at him. The next thing they knew was that they were involved in a food fight. After awhile, they both clamed down and sat down on the couch to get to know each other better.
“Where do you work Luis?”
“I work for my father for Lopez-Fitz Enterprises. I basically do his dirty work.”
“What do you mean dirty work?”
“I get the companies to agree in a merger or sell the companies.”
“What company are you trying to get now?”
“Crane Enterprises”
“Leave my family alone!”
Chapter Four
“What do you mean your family?”
“Nothing, I was just kidding.”
“I don’t think so. I thought you were homeless?”
“I am, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have a family.”
“So you are the Sheridan Crane that has been missing for years.”
“I haven’t been missing, I just ran away. If you lived with my family then you would know why.”
“I have met your family. They seem fine to me.”
“You have to be kidding, right?”
“Yes, I am. What is with them anyway?”
“You don’t want to know.”
“So if you have no money then why not go back home and get some?”
“I couldn’t face them. They would make me marry some guy they were trying to set me up with.”
“It couldn’t be that bad.”
“You try getting married to someone you don’t know. How about we drop it?”
“If you want.”
“Thanks.”
“If you don’t mind me asking, why don’t you want the merger between our families to take place?”
“My mom helped my father start the company years ago and when she died I wanted everything the way she left it. But my father had other ideas. It was now his company and he wanted it to become an empire. That is why he agreed with the owner of another company to have me be married to his son. How did you know about me being missing?”
“This may sound funny, but I was the one you were supposed to marry.”
“WHAT?”
Chapter Five
“I was supposed to marry you, Sheridan Crane. You did say that was your name.”
“I was supposed to marry you. How could you consent to that? I thought you thought my family was weird.”
“They are. I wasn’t going to marry you. I was ready to call the whole thing off.”
“So I am not good enough for you, is that it?” Sheridan said while raising her voice.
“I didn’t say that. I believe in marrying for love.”
“Good, me too.” She said lowering her voice.
“Why don’t we get ready for bed?”
“Excuse me”
“I am not about to have you sleep outside again, so you will sleep in the bed and I will sleep on the couch.”
“I couldn’t do that. This is your room.”
“Don’t argue with me, OK?”
“Fine you win for now. And it is only because I am tired and a good night sleep sounds heavenly.”
“Good Night.”
“Good night.” And with that said, she disappeared into the bedroom and shut the door.
During the middle of the night, Sheridan woke up and went to get a drink of water from the other room. She opened the door and found Luis sleeping on the couch with only his boxers on.
“Why do I feel this way every time I look at him?” she said out loud.
She quickly got a drink of water and went back into the room. Luis then opened his eyes and said, “ So, I am getting to her just like she gets to me.” The sexual tension was building up.
Chapter Six
The next day, Sheridan woke up and went to ask Luis if it was ok if she took a shower before she left. When she opened the door, Luis was waiting for her with breakfast.
“What is this for?”
“You do need to eat.”
“I guess, but afterwards can I take a shower before I go?”
“You are not going anywhere. I am not going to have you go back on the streets. I also have questions about why your father wanted you to marry into my family.”
“My father thought he could make Crane Enterprises into an Empire, but he started to lose money and thought of a way to ensure his future and the future of the empire.”
“So your family is losing money and your dad is lying to us about having enough money to make both families wealthy.”
“Yep, your family is already wealthy, but mine has nothing. It is all a show. That is why I can’t go back to my family because I have nothing to go back to.”
“I am just going to make a quick call. Start breakfast without me.”
“Ok”
Luis went to the phone, picked it up, and started dialing. After a few rings, a woman answered.
“Hello, Lopez- Fitzgerald residents”
“Hello Heather, can I talk to my father?”
“Just a second.”
After a few seconds, “Hello.”
“Papa, we have problems.”
“What kind of problems? What is wrong with the merger?”
“The Cranes don’t have any money.”
“WHAT?”
“They are broke. Do you want me to go to Plan B?”
“Go for it. Keep in touch.”
“I will.” And with that, they hung up.
Chapter Seven
“Did you get a hold of the person you wanted?”
“Yeah, I did.”
“I am going to go take a bath in the big tub, if you don’t mind.”
“Not at all. Stay in the shallow end.”
“Funny Luis.”
“I thought so.”
“Such a charmer, aren’t you?”
“I try.”
Sheridan then got up from the table, walked into the bedroom, and shut the door. Luis couldn’t take his eyes off of her when she was swaying her hips the way she was. He was hot. Luis walked out onto the balcony with the image of her naked in his head.
“What is wrong with me? I hardly know her.” Luis just stood there letting the cool breath wash over him.
The phone ringing brought Luis back to reality. Luis went back into the room and answered the phone. “Hello”
“Luis, this is Beth. You have a meeting with the your lawyer at noon today.”
“Thanks Beth. What would I do without my secretary/girlfriend calling me all the way from New York and reminding me?”
“You would end up not leaving that room and doing what you are supposed to be doing.”
“You are so right.”
Sheridan came walking out of the bedroom wearing only a white robe. Luis turned around and looked directly into her eyes and got lost in them. Sheridan just gave him one of her smiles.
“Luis?”
“Oh, sorry Beth. Look, I need to go and get ready for that appointment. Talk to you later.”
“Ok, Bye Luis. Love you.”
Luis just hung up.
“Was I interrupting something?”
“No, it was just my secretary reminding me of an appointment I have today.”
“Then I will just get dressed and be gone before you know it.”
“NO! I mean I have a proposition for you.”
“Like what?”
“Stay with me for the week and I will pay you to be at my back and call.”
“Meaning?”
“If I need you to appear with me, you will. Like at meetings and personal appearances.”
“How much money are we talking about?”
“3,000 dollars.”
“You got it!”
After some awkward silence, Sheridan finally decided to go and change. “I am going to go get changed.”
“Why?”
“Excuse me?”
“I mean you look comfortable in the robe, why change?” “Sutile Luis.” Luis thought.
“I really don’t have any clothes to wear besides the same ones I wore yesterday, but I don’t want to go around in this robe all day long.” Then Sheridan thought, “even though I wouldn’t mind.”
“Put those on and we are going shopping.”
“Shopping?” she said with happiness filling her eyes.
“Yep, now hurry it up.”
“OK!” Sheridan left to go get changed.
“Now I need to put Plan B into action.” Luis thought.
Chapter Eight
Luis and Sheridan were walking down the street to find the famous clothing stores. Sheridan had stopped at a window and looked in and saw the most beautiful baby blue dress that she had ever seen.
“Luis, I think I am going to look around in this store.”
“But don’t you want to go to those famous ones down the street?”
“PLEASE. I will only be a minute.”
“Fine. I will wait for you out here. I have to make a phone call anyway.”
“OK. And thank you.” Sheridan then flashed him a signature smile and walked into the shop. Luis couldn’t help but not smile his smile back at her.
Luis started to dial numbers on his cell phone and then waited till someone picked up. “Hello.” A voice said on the other side of the phone.
“Hey, Antonio. What would you say if I needed to make that appointment with you for later?”
“Who is she?”
“What?”
“You never cancel with me unless you are entertaining someone. Is it Beth? Did she fly down?”
“No, it isn’t Beth. And I wish not to say although she is now one of my employees for the week.”
“Oh, really?”
“Stop it Antonio!”
“Ok, How about we have dinner tonight at the Red Rose and you can bring your EMPLOYEE.” Antonio made sure he emphasized employee.
“How about 8ish.”
“Eight it is. See you later bro. Bye.”
“Bye” and then Luis hung up.
Luis spotted a cart with roses on it and made his way down the street to buy one for Sheridan, “as a friend, of course” Luis thought.
While Luis was on the phone and buying Sheridan some flowers, Sheridan was busy walking around the cute little store. A salesperson spotted her and approached her.
“May I help you?” she said snotty.
“I was wondering if you had that blue dress in the window in a size 5. And how much is it?”
“I don’t think you could afford it.”
“I have money to spend in here.”
“I don’t think so, not the way you are dressed. PLEASE leave!”
Sheridan stormed out of the shop with tears in her eyes.
Luis was already back with one red rose, which was hidden behind his back. He saw Sheridan with tears in her eyes and approached her.” Sheridan, What happened? Are you ok?”
“Can we please leave?”
“Not until you tell me what happened?”
“They didn’t have the dress in my size.” She obviously of course was lying and Luis was not buying the story, but he let it go, for now.
“Here I have something for you to help cheer you up.” And he hands her the rose. She immediately smiled at him and he smiled at her.
“Thank you.”
“You’re welcome. Now lets so shopping.” He held out his hand for her and she took it.
They walked down the street, fingers intertwined.
Chapter Nine
Luis and Sheridan entered a shop named Theresa’s Fashions. Luis went up to the manager that was on duty.
“May I help you sir?”
“Yes, see this lovely lady here. She would like to shop-till-she-drops.”
“I see, but I don’t think we have anything here that she can afford.” The manager said rather rudely. Sheridan was in tears again. Luis went over to her and said,
“Stop crying. It breaks my heart to see you cry. And as for you” he said turning around to face the manager again. “I will make sure you are fired for this.”
“You couldn’t do anything to me.”
“Oh, really. It just so happens my last name is Lopez-Fitzgerald. And I will make sure my sister fires you for this.”
Sheridan approaches Luis and Said, “Luis don’t. I am sure he needs this job to support his family. He didn’t mean any harm.”
“Sher, he had no right”, the anger getting to him.
She put her hand on his chest and he immediately calmed down. Then she looked at him with tears in her eyes and said, “You called me Sher.”
“I am sorry. I wo….”She cut him off.
“No, I like it.”
“Then Sher it is. Now, Mr.” He said turning to the manager. “You are going to need to get more help out here because she is going to shop.”
“Yes sir” and with that the manager disappeared and came out with more help.
Luis looked at Sheridan as she was smiling at the clothing that was being practically thrown at her. Luis couldn’t help but stare at the beauty that was radiating out of her. Sheridan turned her head and smiled at Luis. He quickly turned his head and he could feel his face blushing. He knew he had been caught. Sheridan then went back to shopping.
After three hours went by, Sheridan was done shopping at the store and wanted to go to more stores.
“Luis, I am ready to leave.”
“Not yet, there is someone I want you to meet first.”
“OK”
“Hey Theresa, come out of your office and come here.” Luis shouted.
“Will you please sh” Theresa stopped once she saw her brother standing there. “Luis, is that really you?”
“Yes, its me.”
“I have missed you,” she said running into his arms. Sheridan suddenly had a feeling of jealousy wash over her.
“Theresa, I want you to meet me friend Sheridan. Sheridan this is my sister Theresa.”
“Hi Sheridan” Theresa said extending her hand out. “Nice to meet you”
“Nice to meet you too” Sheridan shook her hand. The jealousy was gone after Luis said that the dark haired girl was his sister.
“So Luis” Theresa said looking at her brother, “What happened to Beth?”
Sheridan turned to Luis and asked, “Who’s Beth?”
Chapter Nine
Luis and Sheridan entered a shop named Theresa’s Fashions. Luis went up to the manager that was on duty.
“May I help you sir?”
“Yes, see this lovely lady here. She would like to shop-till-she-drops.”
“I see, but I don’t think we have anything here that she can afford.” The manager said rather rudely. Sheridan was in tears again. Luis went over to her and said,
“Stop crying. It breaks my heart to see you cry. And as for you” he said turning around to face the manager again. “I will make sure you are fired for this.”
“You couldn’t do anything to me.”
“Oh, really. It just so happens my last name is Lopez-Fitzgerald. And I will make sure my sister fires you for this.”
Sheridan approaches Luis and Said, “Luis don’t. I am sure he needs this job to support his family. He didn’t mean any harm.”
“Sher, he had no right”, the anger getting to him.
She put her hand on his chest and he immediately calmed down. Then she looked at him with tears in her eyes and said, “You called me Sher.”
“I am sorry. I wo….”She cut him off.
“No, I like it.”
“Then Sher it is. Now, Mr.” He said turning to the manager. “You are going to need to get more help out here because she is going to shop.”
“Yes sir” and with that the manager disappeared and came out with more help.
Luis looked at Sheridan as she was smiling at the clothing that was being practically thrown at her. Luis couldn’t help but stare at the beauty that was radiating out of her. Sheridan turned her head and smiled at Luis. He quickly turned his head and he could feel his face blushing. He knew he had been caught. Sheridan then went back to shopping.
After three hours went by, Sheridan was done shopping at the store and wanted to go to more stores.
“Luis, I am ready to leave.”
“Not yet, there is someone I want you to meet first.”
“OK”
“Hey Theresa, come out of your office and come here.” Luis shouted.
“Will you please sh” Theresa stopped once she saw her brother standing there. “Luis, is that really you?”
“Yes, its me.”
“I have missed you,” she said running into his arms. Sheridan suddenly had a feeling of jealousy wash over her.
“Theresa, I want you to meet me friend Sheridan. Sheridan this is my sister Theresa.”
“Hi Sheridan” Theresa said extending her hand out. “Nice to meet you”
“Nice to meet you too” Sheridan shook her hand. The jealousy was gone after Luis said that the dark haired girl was his sister.
“So Luis” Theresa said looking at her brother, “What happened to Beth?”
Sheridan turned to Luis and asked, “Who’s Beth?”
Chapter Ten
“So Luis, Who is Beth?”
“Beth is my secretary.” He said while giving Theresa the shut your mouth look. Sheridan saw the look exchanged between the two.
“Luis, why would Theresa ask where Beth was if that is all she is to you?”
Luis covered up by saying, “She always comes with me on business trips, but she couldn’t this time, no big deal.”
“So is that why you hired me for the week?”
“Yep”
Theresa saw the look exchanged between the two and knew Luis was a goner. He had already falling in love with this mystery woman and Sheridan was oblivious to the fact that he had a girlfriend.
“If you guys don’t mind, I am going to go back to work. And Luis watch out!” Theresa said as she was going back into her office. She turned around to see Luis mouth you are dead while he opened the front door for Sheridan.
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As Luis and Sheridan were walking back to the hotel, they came across the same store that Sheridan wanted that blue dress from.
“Luis, I am going to check something. I will be right back.”
“But Sher, you were already in there.”
“I know, I just want to see if they could order the dress in my size.”
“Ok, don’t be too long.”
Sheridan was of course not in the clothes she came in with, but a sophisticated black dress with red roses printed on it. The same salesperson saw her, and ran to make a sale.
“May I help you?”
“No, I just wanted to say you made a big mistake, big, huge. I have to go shopping now.” And Sheridan walked out of the store. The salesperson walked to the window and saw the woman she thought was poor walk up to a tall, dark, and gorgeous man who obviously was not poor. She felt like such an idiot when she realized she could have made a huge sale today.
Outside the store, Luis asked, “Sher, would you like to get some lunch? I for one am starved.”
“I would love too, but I know the perfect place. Can we go there?”
“Sure!” and they walked to the park.
“Sher, what are we doing at the park?”
“I know this cute little vendor who sells the best hot dogs in LA.”
“You want hot dogs.”
“Yep”
“So why did Alistair Crane’s daughter start enjoying, as my father and I am sure your father says, “common people’s” lives?”
“Why don’t you buy us some hotdogs and we can sit in the grass and I can tell you all about me and visa versa. Sound good?”
“The grass?” Luis whined.
“Yep, and if you are a good boy I will even let you get dessert” she said with mischief in her eyes. Luis couldn’t help but get hot as he saw the look in her eyes. “Now go get me some food. I am hungry.”
“Fine you win, but only because I can’t wait for dessert.” He said with a seductive tone in his voice, which didn’t go unnoticed by Sheridan.
Luis went to go buy the hotdogs and Sheridan just stood there trying to process what Luis just said and with the tone in his voice, Sheridan could only imagine what it would be like if her fantasies were given a chance to become reality. Luis came back with the hotdogs and thought he saw Sheridan blushing about whatever she was thinking.
“Here is your hotdog.”
“Thanks. Lets go over here in the nice warm sun and we can talk. “
They found a perfect spot underneath a tree, but still had sunlight washing over them.
“So, now will you tell me about your family Sher?”
“Fine, my life in hundred words or less. I was born. My mother died. Father became evil and manipulative. I became eighteen and started traveling. I came back three years ago and was told I was to be married to you. I left for a life of my own. And learned to be “normal”. Any questions?”
“Nope.”
“What about you?”
“My life is complicated.”
“So what. Tell me about yourself.”
“Ok, I was born, shown the ways of the Lopez-Fitzgerald, started following the ways of my father, became engaged to a Crane, but she of course broke it off. Thank God I didn’t even know her then.” He said with a playful tone. “And I am still working for my father. Any questions?”
“Your life was just as bad as mine.”
“I am used to it.”
They were so in focus with each other, neither realized that they were getting closer together on the ground. Little by little, they were inching their way towards each other. Their eyes locked and they felt a connection, neither had felt before. They were both drowning in the looks of each other’s eyes. They were slowly inching their lips towards each other.
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Post by Nicole Will on Dec 18, 2007 12:56:56 GMT -5
Chapter Eleven
Luis and Sheridan were inching their way towards each other that they could feel each other’s breath. They never broke eye contact when their lips found the others. They never thought kissing each other would bring such pleasure. All Sheridan could think of was that Luis’s lips were soft and warm and she didn’t want to stop. Luis’s mind was in overdrive. He knew he shouldn’t be doing this, but he couldn’t resist. She was to d**n gorgeous for him not too.
Luis was slowly outlining Sheridan’s lips with his tongue, begging for entrance. Once she opened her mouth, the kiss turned to anything but innocent. He started to deepen the kiss and Sheridan put her hands around his neck, pulling him closer. Once Luis felt her deepening the kiss, he stopped it.
They both sat there breathless and just stared at each other.
“I am sorry Sher. I didn’t” Sheridan stopped him by putting her one of her fingers on his mouth to silence him.
“Don’t be sorry, cause I am not.” And she gave him a bright smile that made his heart sore.
Luis looked at his watch and realized they better get ready for his dinner appointment with Antonio.
“We better get going if we want to make my dinner appointment.”
“Where are we going tonight?”
“The Red Rose to meet by brother Antonio.”
“I didn’t know you had a brother.”
“Actually I have two. And also two sisters, but you already met Theresa. There is Miguel and Paloma who live with my parents yet.”
“I think we should have a get to know you session. Don’t you think?” She said flirtatiously.
“I definitely think so.” And they walked back to the hotel carrying all the clothes that Sheridan had bought.
------------------------------------------------------ Luis and Sheridan were getting ready for the appointment when the phone rang.
Luis decided to answer it since Sheridan wasn’t even close to being ready.
“Hello”
“Hey, bro. Just seeing if you are still coming tonight. I hope I am not interrupting something.”
“Antonio, I know what you are thinking and nothing has happened.”
“Sure Luis that wasn’t you in the park earlier kissing a short haired beautiful blond, was it?”
“Were you following me?”
“No, I just happened to walk by and saw you.”
“Sure you were” Luis said sarcastically. “I know you don’t go anywhere where the locals hang out.”
“Listen Luis, you better just let her go and have Beth fly down.”
“NO WAY!” Luis shouted.
“What is up with you man? You are way over your head here. Concentrate on the plan, Will you?”
“I know what I have to do, but I will not have Sheridan back on the streets.” Sheridan walks out into the room and Luis looked up at her. Luis said, “Antonio, see ya later.”
“Luis, L-U-I-S??” but it was too late because Luis had already hung up the phone on Antonio.
“You look beautiful.”
“Thank You.” Sheridan said blushing.
Both were so happy that neither knew that tonight was going to change their lives for the rest of their lives.
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Across town, Antonio was on the phone with Beth.
“Hey Beth.”
“Antonio, nice to hear your voice.”
“I have a favor to ask you.”
“What is it?”
“Luis misses you and wants you to come here, but is afraid to ask you.”
“Don’t worry about it. I will get the next flight out.”
“Thank you and bye.”
“Bye”
----------------------------------------------------
Luis and Sheridan just walked into the Red Rose and Luis spotted Antonio at the table.
“There is my brother.”
They both walked to the table.
“Antonio this is Sheridan. Sheridan this is my pain in the ass brother Antonio.”
“Nice to meet you Sheridan.” “Won’t your world be turned upside down tonight?” Antonio thought.
“Nice to meet you Antonio.” Sheridan stuck her hand out waiting for Antonio to shake her hand. They shook hands quickly and Antonio sat down while Luis pulled out the chair for Sheridan before he sat down.
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In New York, Beth was waiting for her flight number to be called.
The announcer came on saying, “Flight 101 to LA is now boarding.”
“Finally, I can’t wait to see my Luis.” And Beth went to board the plane.
Chapter Twelve
While Luis, Sheridan, and Antonio were reading the menu, the waiter came up to them.
“What can I get you folks?”
Antonio didn’t wait for his turn he just spoke up and said, “I will have the escargot.”
Luis gave his brother a dirty look and the waiter went to Luis and asked what he wanted. Luis responded by saying, “Ladies first.” And gave his brother a smirk.
Antonio kept on thinking, “Enjoy your fun now. Wait until Beth shows up and blows you out of the water.”
Even though Sheridan was born into wealth, she had no idea what the names of these foods were. He father never left the house when she was little, unless to go to boarding school. He always ordered for her.
“Luis, Why don’t you order for me?”
“Sher, I am sure you can yourself.”
Sheridan leaned over towards him and whispered in his ear, “I don’t know what these names mean?” and she gave him an apologetic smile.
Luis then just ordered for both of them.
“The lady and I would like the lobster special.”
“Ok, sir.” And the waiter left.
Luis leaned over and whispered in Sheridan’s ear, “We will talk about this more at the hotel, K?”
She nodded. “Luis, I think I am going to use the ladies room.”
“Ok, It is that way.” He said pointing to the hallway towards the right of them.
While Sheridan was gone, Antonio and Luis were talking business.
“Luis, have you talked to the governor yet?”
“No, I have been busy.”
“Luis, Papa would kill you if he knew you weren’t doing your part of the plan.”
“I will, just not right now. I will do it tomorrow.”
“You are asking for it. You know papa wants the Cranes to pay for lying to them. Anyway how did you find about them being broke?”
“I have my sources and this person wishes to remain nameless for now.”
“Can you rely on this source?”
“Of course I can.” He said with a dreamy look on his face.
“I get it. This source is a girl, a pretty one too I bet. Luis, you LOVE action don’t you. You playing all over the field.”
“ANTONIO! Shut up. Here comes Sher so be quiet will you.”
Once Sheridan sat down, Antonio wanted to know how she happened to meet the most eligible bachelor in the US.
“So Sher, how did you and Luis meet?”
“We just bumped into each other.”
Antonio thought, “Bumped into each other, sure. You were probably following him.”
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“Excuse me. When will we be arriving in LA?”
“I am not sure we might not be able to land in LA because of a storm.”
“I have someplace to be tonight. Where will we land?”
“In San Francisco.”
“How far of a drive is it to LA?”
“Not sure, maybe two hours.”
“Just great. More time away from Luis.” She said angrily.
“Sorry about this, but we should be able to land within the next two hours.”
“Thank You.”
----------------------------------------------------
After dinner, Luis and Sheridan were out the door when Antonio stopped them.
“Hey Luis, call me tomorrow after you talk to the GOVERNOR.”
“Bye Antonio.” Sheridan and he walked out and got into the limo.
“I had so much fun tonight. Thanks Luis.” And she leaned in and gave him a quick peck on the cheek.
“You’re welcome.” He leaned in to give her a kiss but it wasn’t on the cheek.
Their lips meet and it seemed that time stood still. All they could hear was the rhythm of each other’s hearts.
“We are here Mr. Lopez-Fitzgerald.” The driver announced.
They broke apart and looked at each other seeing the want in each other’s eyes. The passion was building and both knew it was frustrating containing it anymore.
“Thanks Hank.” Luis said breathlessly.
They got out of the limo and headed for the hotel room. Neither knew what was going to happen next.
They walked up and went into the elevator. Once the elevator was closed, they started kissing each other passionately. Their lips were everywhere, on the lips, face, neck, and Luis even started pulling down the straps to Sheridan’s dress and kissing her there. When the doors opened, they pulled away from each other and looked into each other’s eyes. It was like they were looking into each other’s hearts and souls. One look into their eyes both knew what was going to happen next. Luis entwined his fingers with hers and walked to THEIR hotel room.
Once the door was opened, Luis picked Sheridan up and headed towards the bedroom. They just looked at each other, loving the new feelings that were unleashed.
-----------------------------------------------------
Beth’s plane had just landed in San Francisco and she was waiting to rent a car.
“I would like to rent a car Please.”
Once Beth was set up with a rental, she headed towards the interstate headed towards LA.
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Luis and Sheridan were each having fun undressing each other and kissing any new exposed area. They were on their way to making love, totally oblivious to the disaster waiting to happen.
Chapter Thirteen
Luis was busy working off Sheridan’s straps to her dress when he started to place feather light kisses along her neck. Sheridan tilted her head to give him more access to her neck.
“Oh Luis” Sheridan said in barely a whisper. He was getting to her like nobody else did.
Luis kissed his way from her neck, heading straight towards her chest. He slowly began to lower the dress until it was in a heap on the floor. He looked her up and down and Sheridan could easily see the desire and passions in his eyes. She was sure she had the same look in her eyes.
Luis lowered his head until his mouth met her right breast. His tongue shot out and circled around the nipple until it was heard. He could her Sheridan moan.
“Oh God, don’t stop. Please don’t stop.” She said while biting her lower lip.
“Don’t worry baby. I don’t plan on stopping.” Luis said and then returned his attention to her chest again.
Luis was slowly kissing his way down until he reached her panties. He put a finger inside and looked up at her. She had her eyes shut and was starting to shutter when she felt that Luis had stopped.
“Luis?” she said in a whine. “Don’t stop.”
He just laughed and pulled down her panties until they were along side the dress on the floor.
“You know Sher, you are ahead of me. I still have my clothes on. What are you going to do about it?” he said suggestively, while he wiggled his eyebrows.
Sheridan didn’t waste any time helping him out of his suit. She grabbed onto him and started giving him the same torture he gave her, starting with the neck.
“That feels so good Sher.”
“Good, I am glad I am doing something right.”
Sheridan was kissing him down his neck and towards his stomach. She reached his belly button and flicked her tongue inside. She heard Luis moan.
Sheridan reached inside his boxers and touched his shaft.
“OH GOD!” Luis moaned.
He couldn’t stand the torcher any more. He picked her up and lowered her to the bed. He quickly disposed of his boxers and lay down on top of her.
---------------------------------------------------
“I wonder if Beth has landed yet?”
Antonio picked up his cell phone and called Beth’s cell phone.
RING RING
“Hello”
“Hey Beth, Where are you?”
“About an hour away. The rain just keeps coming down harder and I can’t see the road.”
"Hurry! Luis really misses you.” “Just wait till you see what he has been up to.” Antonio thought.
“Ok, I will call you once I reach LA.”
“Ok, I will be waiting for your call. Bye.”
“Bye.”
Antonio thought, “Oh Luis, I wonder what you are doing now with the gold-digging Sheridan, probably out buying her more things. Why can’t you see that she is after your money? Oh well, not my problem.”
-------------------------------------------------------
“Luis, end this torture. Please” Sheridan said while grabbing a hold of his slick black hair.
Luis looked up at her and then turned his attention back to kissing her intimately. He flicked his tongue in her opening and Sheridan arched her back off the bed.
“Luis, Come on. I can’t take it anymore.” Sheridan whined.
She grabbed a hold of him and brought him back up towards her mouth. She opened her mouth to give him access.
She never thought making love good be like this. She never wanted to stop, and to think she was to marry him three years ago.
Sheridan kept on thinking, “Why didn’t I just meet him first before running out?”
The thoughts just flouted out of her mind as she felt pressure building up inside her.
“L-U-I-S? I need you….now. Make love to me.”
He looked into her eyes and he could see that she wanted him just as much as he wanted her. He brought his shaft to her opening and asked, “Are you sure? I mean this changes everything.”
“Yes Luis.”
And with that said, he thrusted inside of her. Sheridan felt a pain shoot through her body and she arched her back towards him, taking more of him in. She soon found the rhythm he set and moved with him.
“Oh god, SHER.” He said with moaning.
“LUIS!!!”
They were moving together like they were one person. Sheridan had never felt anything so incredible in her life as the shocks of pleasure were rippling through her body. Sheridan grabbed his butt and pushed him closer to her. She wanted to be as close as she could to this man.
They started moving faster and faster.
“Luis, faster.”
“I can’t move any faster baby.” He said with a slight chuckle.
“LUIS” she screamed as a powerful climax overtook her. Her body shuddered and she felt like she was floating through the stars. A few more thrusts brought Luis to a climax as well.
“SHERIDAN” he screamed while still moving inside her until it stung. He collapsed on her body, sweat glistening on them.
He pulled out of her and gathered her in his arms, both still trying to process on what just happened.
After a few minutes Sheridan finally spoke.
“That was…I don’t think there is a word to describe it.”
“I know what you mean. I have an idea. How about you and I take a shower.” He said while wiggling his eyebrows.
“I don’t know.” She said while she gave the look like she was thinking about it. “Race you.” And she took off for the bathroom.
“I am going to get you for that Sheridan Crane.” He yelled.
-----------------------------------------------------
RING RING
“Hello”
“Hey Antonio. I am just arriving in LA.”
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Post by Nicole Will on Dec 18, 2007 12:57:58 GMT -5
Chapter Fourteen
When Luis arrived in the bathroom, Sheridan was waiting in the shower with sponge in hand.
“What took you so long?”
“I have a little surprise waiting for us after our shower.”
“Oh, really. Well in that case, we better wash each other.”
Sheridan put soap into the sponge and lathered it. After the lather was good enough, she began to wash Luis’s chest, abdomen, and arms. She was just getting hot from being so close to him. Luis was feeling just as hot from having Sheridan close to him.
Luis took away the sponge and started washing Sheridan’s body. Once Luis reached her thigh, she moaned loudly.
“Sher, You better stop that or I won’t be responsible for my actions.”
“I am sorry does this bother you.” She said while touching the tip of his shaft and looking up at him only to see him moan.
“Sher, What am I going to do with you?”
“Easy, make love to me.”
“Again?”
“Yep.” And with that said they started kissing passionately.
--------------------------------------------------
“Hi, I am looking for Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald’s room please.”
“He is the Penthouse number one.”
“Thank You.”
Beth walked up to the elevators and pushed the up button. Once the elevator doors opened, Beth walked in and pressed the button for the penthouse. The doors closed.
-----------------------------------------------------
Sheridan backed up against one of the walls of the shower and Luis was kissing his way down her chest, giving her two breasts equal treatment. His tongue darted out of his mouth and swirled around her nipple, making it come to a peak. He started kissing his way down her abdomen until reaching her weeping center. He flicked his tongue inside and heard her moan loudly. She had grabbed onto his hair pulling it. He knew she was about to go over the edge.
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The elevator doors opened and Beth stepped out. She waked up to the door and started knocking.
“Luis, it’s me. Open up.” Beth yelled through the door.
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Sheridan jumped up and wrapped her legs around Luis.
“Luis, do you hear someone knocking at the door?”
“Just ignore it. Whoever it is will go away.”
“Ok, but you better hurry it up and make love to me.”
Luis poised to enter her and with one quick movement he thrusted in her. They were moving their bodies together as if they were one.
----------------------------------------------------
Beth was waiting for Luis to answer when a maid walked by.
“Excuse me. I seem to have left my keys inside the room. Can you please unlock it for me?”
“Of course ma’am.” And the maid began to unlock the door.
----------------------------------------------------
“Luis” Sheridan said with a light moan.
Sheridan could feel the pleasure building up and was ready to shatter at any moment. A couple more thrusts brought both of them to a powerful climax.
“LUIS!”
“SHERIDAN”
Luis lowered her to her feet, but still held onto each other. They just listened to each other’s heartbeats, which were rapidly beating. Luis reached to turn off the water, which had gotten cold.
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Beth walked into the hotel room and looked around. She heard the water running and realized that Luis didn’t open the door because he was in the shower. She then heard the water shut off.
“Good, Now maybe I should order room service for us and hide somewhere.” Beth thought.
She quickly went to the phone and ordered a bottle of champagne and strawberries. She then ran into the bedroom and hid.
--------------------------------------------------
Luis and Sheridan were busy drying each other off and giving little butterfly kisses on the lips every once and awhile. Once they were completely dried off, Luis picked up Sheridan and opened the bathroom door.
The next thing Luis knew was that he had a surprise waiting.
“Luis you ordered room service. How sweet.” Sheridan said.
“Sher, I didn’t do this. They must have brought it to the wrong room.”
“Well it is here now, so lets enjoy it. By the way, what is that surprise you told me about?”
“You will just have to wait and see, baby?” And they began to kiss.
---------------------------------------------------
“What the hell is going on?” Beth said quietly from her hiding spot in the closet.
She had spotted Luis walking out of the bathroom carrying a blond. Beth just sat there with her mouth and eyes wide open.
Chapter Fifteen
“Oh Luis.” Beth heard the woman in Luis’s arms moan.
She looked out the crack of the closet door and saw Luis kissing the blonde’s neck. She felt rage build up inside her. She decided a confrontation was in order, but when she looked out the door, she didn’t have enough power in her to do it. She just sat and watched them as he lowered the women on the bed. She decided that she would give them some time before she interrupted them. She needed to build up her confidence.
When Beth looked out again, she decided it was time since the happy couple seemed to be enjoying themselves in the bed she should be sharing with Luis, her Luis. She slowly started to open the closet door. She stood at the end of the bed and looked at them. Luis and his bedmate were totally oblivious to the fact that there stood Beth watching the.
“WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING LUIS?” Beth screamed.
Luis and Sheridan both looked up and saw Beth stand there.
“B…Beth wha..What are you doing here?” Luis stuttered.
Beth looked at Sheridan and gave her an evil look. Sheridan did not have any idea on what was going on.
“Well I came to surprise my BOYFRIEND, but he seems to be enjoying himself pretty well without me.” She screamed.
“Luis, I thought you said Beth was your secretary?” Sheridan said, stunned at what had just been said.
“Well missy, I am his secretary and GIRLFRIEND you sleeper.” Beth screamed at Sheridan.
“Beth, please calm down and we can talk about this.” Luis said trying to calm down Beth before she hurt Sheridan. “Sheridan didn’t know I had a girlfriend.”
When Luis spoke that he had kept that from her, Sheridan grabbed the sheet and ran into the bathroom. Luis heard the lock click and heard her crying inside. Luis looked at Beth.
“You didn’t need to take it out on her. I kept it from her for a reason.”
“And what is that reason? You better give me a d**n good answer or you won’t be living to see tomorrow.” Beth screamed.
“Beth, I don’t know how to tell you this, but I was going to break up with you once I got back to New York.”
“Why?” Beth said in tears.
“Sheridan has brought out things in me I never knew existed. She is my reason for living. I can’t live without her. I am sorry Beth.”
“I should have seen it coming. I mean when I asked you if I could move in with you last month you said NO without hesitation. How blind am I?”
“Beth don’t do this to yourself. I mean I didn’t even think this would happen this week. I mean I was to be doing business for my papa and right now I could care less because all I want to do is spend time with Sheridan.”
“You must really have feelings for her. I just hope that we can still be friends.”
“I would like that very much Beth. Thanks for understanding.”
“I have no choice. If I can’t have you as a lover, well then I at least get to be your friend.”
Luis and Beth hugged each other and Beth walked out of the penthouse never looking back.
“Sheridan, can you please open the door for me?” Luis said with a sweet low voice.
He could still hear her crying and heard her reply, “Go away you lying son of a pregnant dog.”
“Come on Sher, I didn’t know this was going to happen.”
Sheridan opened the door, fully clothed. She grabbed her clothes from the closet and asked for her money. Luis reached into his pocket and grabbed the money and placed it on the bed. Sheridan looked at it and just walked out the door.
“Sher, come on. Can we talk about this? I am sorry.”
“What you did was low. You hurt me; you lied to me. How could you make love to me like we just did when you knew you had a girlfriend? Was that the surprise?”
“Sher, you know that I would never do that to you. That was not the surprise. I was planning to take you someplace in San Francisco. And the reason I didn’t tell you was because I was planning on breaking up with her next week anyway. Please stay with me for the rest of the week?” Luis said with pleading eyes.
Sheridan looked into his eyes and knew he was being honest with her.
“Don’t ever hurt me again.”
“I promise. Now lets get ready for bed.”
“No Luis, I want to talk about this, about what just happened.”
RING RING
“Hey Antonio. Can I come over? I need someplace to go.”
“Beth what is wrong? Why aren’t you with Luis?”
“I will answer all your questions when I arrive at your apartment.”
“Ok, see you then.”
After talking for over two hours about Luis’s relationship with Beth and about why he wanted to break things off, they were wrapped up in each other’s arms, sleeping with an identical content smile on their faces. They had just accomplished to pass their first obstacle as a couple. The only thing missing was their words of love had yet top be shared.
Beth had arrived at Antonio’s apartment. They sat up and talked about what Beth had walked in on.
“I figured that would happen, the way they were looking at each other tonight.”
“Antonio, is that why you invited me out here, to show me what Luis was up to.”
“Actually, yes. He needs to concentrate on his work and nothing else. He is so wrapped up in this nobody tat he can’t see straight.”
“I don’t think so. She some how looked familiar to me, like I saw her picture some place before.”
“I had the same feeling, but I couldn’t place it.”
On Antonio’s desk was a magazine saying, “The Princess Crane is still missing after three years!” and Sheridan’s picture was displayed.
“No big deal, I guess. What is done is done.” Beth said while eying Antonio. “Boy, he is cuter than Luis. Why didn’t I see it before?” Beth thought.
Antonio had the same thoughts going through his head. The next thing they knew was that they were kissing each other like they never had kissed any one before.
Chapter 16
The next morning, Luis woke up with the sunlight shining through the window, reflecting a glow on a sleeping Sheridan. They had sthingyed sometime during the night and Luis couldn’t be happier.
Luis started placing butterfly kisses on her lips. Sheridan’s mouth curved into a smile and she sighed in her sleep. Luis started lightly laughing causing Sheridan to open her eyes.
“You are interrupting my beauty sleep.”
“I’m sorry, baby. Forgive me?” he said sticking his lip out into a pout.
“You know I do, so come back down her and kiss me.”
“It would be my pleasure.” And he dipped his head and found her lips. They started kissing passionately.
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Beth woke up and found herself in bed with Antonio.
“What happened?” she thought.
She couldn’t remember anything after catching Luis with the sleeper.
“How did I end up in bed with Antonio?”
Antonio answered, “You were the one kissing me when you came over.”
“I am sorry. I didn’t mean to come on to you.” Beth got out of the bed and grabbed her clothes before heading to the bathroom.
When she came out fully dressed, Antonio was not I the room. She walked down the hallway and found Antonio making breakfast. She slipped out the door, leaving Antonio completely oblivious to the fact that she was gone.
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After getting up and ordering room service, Luis and Sheridan were sitting on the sofa waiting for their breakfast to arrive.
“So Luis, when are you going to tell me about that surprise I get.”
“I am not saying a word. You will find out tonight.” Luis gave her that devilish look that made her wonder what he was up to.
“Fine. Be that way.” Sheridan said while pouting.
“Sher, I mean it. I am not going to say anything about tonight.”
KNOCK KNOCK
“Interrupted by the door. Thank Goodness.” Luis said.
Luis opened up the door and found the bellboy with their breakfast. During breakfast, Luis wanted to know more about Sheridan. Anything about her interested him lately.
“So Sher, you never did tell me why you like simple foods.”
“I was never allowed to leave the house. I was locked up into my room day and night. The only time I was allowed to come down was for publicity photos.” Sheridan said with tears in her eyes.
Luis leaned over the table and wiped away the few tears that were falling down her face.
“Don’t cry. My heart breaks to see you cry.”
Sheridan slightly laughed, giving him a weak, but radiating smile.
“There is that smile that lights up the room.”
“How come you know exactly what to say?”
“Easy, I speak with honesty and I understand why you are crying. You had a terrible childhood.”
“Can we please drop this?”
“Anything for you.”
“Thanks” and she smiled again before continuing, “What are WE doing today?”
“Nice try Sher, but I am going to the office for awhile and you get the entire afternoon to yourself.”
“Why can’t I come with you?”
“You honestly want to watch me try to takedown your family’s company?”
“Good point. Have fun dear.” She said while Luis was grabbing his briefcase and walking out the door laughing.
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“Hey Luis, you finally made it into the office.” Antonio said while seeing Luis get off the elevator. “Papa arrived this morning and is not pleased. We hardly made any progress.”
“I know. I have been occupied lately.”
“With Sheridan….what is her last name?”
“I am not going to say at this moment….maybe another time. OK?”
“Luis, you finally decided to join us.” Martin said with a disapproving look.
“Sorry Papa. I am here now and ready to work.”
“Good! Now lets open up these files and see if there is anything we can use against the Cranes…with anyone from that family.”
“How about this papa.” Antonio said while holding up a magazine cover with the headline saying, “PRINCESS CRANE STILL NOT FOUND”
“Read the article and find out. I didn’t raise you to be an idiot.”
“Yes papa.”
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After a half an hour of looking through files, Luis decided he needed a break.
“Hey Marissa, Are the tickets here yet?”
“Yes sir. Two tickets to the opera just arrived about ten minutes ago.”
“Good.” “Won’t you be surprised, Sher.” Luis thought.
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Antonio was still reading the magazine when he caught glimpse of a picture. He looked down to read the caption.
“Sheridan Crane still missing.” Antonio was stunned at the picture. She was the same woman he saw Luis with the other night.
“Papa, I think I found something.” The secret was out.
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Post by Nicole Will on Dec 18, 2007 12:58:22 GMT -5
Chapter Seventeen
“Well, what did you find Antonio?” Martin said with his annoyed voice. He knew Antonio was not cut out for this type of work. That is why he sent him to Harvard to become a lawyer instead of the heir.
“I know where Sheridan is!” He was practically yelling from the excitement in his voice.
“Keep it down. Do you want everyone to hear you? Now, what do you mean you know where Sheridan is at. She took off before the wedding and left no clues on her where abouts.”
“But Papa, Luis knows her.”
“Luis never met her.” Martin was really starting to get ticked off at his son.
“Yes he has. Even ask him who he was sleeping with last night.”
“Can you dial my hotel room number for me Marissa?”
RING RING
“Hello. Never ever pick up the phone.”
“Then stop calling me.”
“I am having a dress sent over for you today. Make sure it fits before we go out tonight.”
“Yes Sir!”
“ha ha very funny.”
“I thought it was.”
“Leave it to a comedian to entertain.”
“You better watch it mister, otherwise you can sleep on the couch again.”
All of a sudden Martin could be herd yelling, “LUS GET IN HERE NOW!”
“I have to go Sher. My father is calling me. See you tonight. Bye.” Love you he thought.
“Bye”
As Luis was walking in, he shouted, “Yes Papa”
“Don’t use that tone of voice with me.”
“Sorry Papa”
“Now what is this about you and Sheridan Crane?”
“What do you mean?” Luis said with a studdeering and scared voice. Martin senced it.
“Have you or have you not slept with Sheridan last night?”
“I think that would be my business on who I sleep with.”
“Answer me!” Martin shouted.
Antonio just stood there watching his younger brother squirm. Maybe Papa will make me the heir and not Luis, Antonio thought.
“Yes, Ok. I have slept with Sher. Are you happy?”
“Why didn’t you say something. This could be used to our advantage. You can get information out of her that can help destroy them, ALL of them.”
“Leave Sheridan alone.”
“Listen to me” Martin shouted, “You WILL get information out of her and do it fast or you can find yourself disowned from the family.”
“But Papa?”
“No buts, just do it.”
“Yes Papa, I will try tonight after the opera. Oops!” Luis said covering his mouth.
“So you are taking her to an opera. How convenient. Make sure she has a WONDERFUL time. And make sure you come back here with some information for us.”
“We will meet again at ten tomorrow. I am going back to my hotel room to relax.” And Martin walked out the door.
“Way to go Luis.” Antonio said “You really are in hot water with papa.”
“SHUT UP!” and Luis punched Antonio in the stomach before walking out the conference room to get some air. Antonio was on the ground in pain.
Chapter Eighteen
KNOCK KNOCK
Sheridan went to the door and opened. Standing there was a small Latino woman, which Luis seemed to resemble.
“May I help you?” Sheridan said while smiling at the woman.
“I must have the wrong room. Sorry to bother you.”
“If you are looking for Luis, this is his room.”
“Oh, and you are?”
“Sheridan, nice to meet you?
“Pilar, Luis’s mother,” and they shook hands.
“Luis isn’t here right now, but he should be shortly. Would you like to come in?”
“Thank you.” Pilar walked into the penthouse and looked around.
“So Sheridan, why are you here?”
“Sorry, I am Luis’s secretary.”
All of a sudden, the door flew open and Luis stormed in, slamming the door.
Luis saw Sheridan and Pilar sitting on the sofa.
“Hi mama.” He said while giving her a kiss on the cheek.
“I just came over here to visit you since your father is in a bad mood. And I just met Sheridan.”
“I am going to let you guys catch up. I will just go down to the restaurant.” Sheridan said while standing up.
“Thank You. I will come and get you when it is time to get ready for tonight.” He said with a smile on his face. Pilar sat there and watched the two interact.
After Sheridan closed the door, Pilar wanted to know what was going on.
“Luis can I ask you a question?”
“Sure mama, what is it?”
“What is going on with you and Sheridan?”
Luis started coughing. “Why do you ask?”
“I am not blind mijo. I can see you are attracted to your secretary. And another question where is Beth? She told your father and I that she was flying to see you right after she got off the phone with your brother.”
“ANTONIO called Beth….to tell her to come HERE?”
“Yes, that is what she said.”
“Sorry to disappoint you mama, but we broke up and now I am seeing Sheridan.”
“I should have known that Sheridan was not JUST your secretary.”
“When I met Sher, she had nothing going right in her life. She was homeless and well she is a Crane. Papa isn’t liking this. In fact, he wants me to get information out of her so he can still the company.”
“Don’t listen to your father. I will take care of him. And you have fun tonight.”
“What about Antonio, mama? He had Beth fly out here because I hired Sheridan and he didn’t like her.”
“I will talk to your brother. Just enjoy your time with Sheridan. Forget about your brother or your father.”
“Thanks mama.”
“You’re welcome. Now I am going to go have dinner with your sister, so I will call you in the morning?”
“I will be at the office with papa tomorrow.”
“No you are not. I can see you really like Sheridan. Spend some time with her; get to know her better. I will tell your father you are not coming.”
Pilar stood up and kissed Luis good-bye.
“I will tell Sheridan she can come up now. Bye mijo.”
“Bye mama.”
A few minutes later, Sheridan came through the door.
“Your mother said I could come back up.”
“Yep, now go get ready.” He said while slapping her butt towards the bedroom.
“I am going to get you for that Luis.”
“I am counting on it.” He said with a mischievous grin.
Sheridan walked into the bedroom and shut the door after giving him a grin of her own.
An hour later, Sheridan finally emerged from the bedroom.
“What took you so long?” he said while noticing her red fitted long gown.
“As you can see Luis, I had to stuff myself in this thing.”
“I think you look beautiful.” He said while kissing her quickly on the lips. “But you are missing something.”
“What?”
“This” he said while holding out a velvet box. Inside the box was the most beautiful diamond necklace anyone has ever seen.
“I can’t have that. It is too expensive to spend on me.”
“Nothing is TOO expensive for my girl.”
“Your girl?”
“Yep. Now lets get this thing on you and get going.” He said while kissing her neck.
“Luis if you don’t stop, we will never leave this room tonight.”
“Ok, lets go.” And they walked out the door.
Chapter Nineteen
On the plane to San Francisco, Sheridan was getting more curious on where Luis was going to take her.
“I give up.” Sheridan said with determination to get the answers out of him.
“Not telling.” Luis said with a slight chuckle.
Sheridan walked over to him and sat down on the sofa. She started to lean towards him in an attempt to seduce him in order to talk. She started by having pointer finger trace his jaw line and move over his lips and down his chest. Luis was getting turned on by her movements.
“Sher, you better stop this unless you plan on finishing this.” He said with a staggering voice.
“So Luis” she said while started to kiss his face and then neck, “Where are we going tonight?”
“You think you can seduce me to get out the information, don’t you?”
“Baby, I think I already have you seduced.” Sher said while looking at him with her piercing blue eyes.
“Fine, you win. We are going to an opera. Happy?”
“Yep.” She said while kissing him on the lips. It was only meant to be a quick peck on the lips, but the kiss soon turned out of control. Luis and Sheridan were slowly taking turns undressing each other and kissing the newly exposed areas.
“Luis, we should be landing within the next few minutes.” The captain spoke up.
Luis and Sheridan quickly put their clothes back on and buckled up, waiting for them to land.
In the limo, on the way to the opera, Sheridan wanted to know everything about what it was about. This would be he first opera.
“I will I understand anything if it is Italian. Of Course, it had to be in a language I didn’t know. Why couldn’t you tale me to a French one?”
“Because my love, you don’t need to understand the words, just the music. Look at their actions and listen to the music, you will understand the most of what is going on.”
“If you say so.” She wasn’t so sure that she would understand anything, but she was more than happy just to be here with Luis.
Once they found their seats, Sheridan started to fiddle around in her seat.
“Sher, you will be alright.” He said while giving her a quick peck on the lips. Sheridan smiled at him.
The lights dimmed and the opera was about to begin.
During the opera, Luis kept on staring at Sheridan, who seemed to be crying. He loved to watch her. ‘What is it about her that fascinates me?’ he thought. Sheridan realized she was being stared at and looked at Luis. She gave him one of her radiating smile that made Luis’ heart do flip-flops. She then turned her attention back to the couple on stage that looked like they were having some romantic conversation. Sheridan wasn’t to sure, but by the actions they were doing, it was her guess.
After the opera was over, Sheridan rose from her seat and clapped her hands, She was still crying. Luis took one of his hands and wiped away some of her tears. It was just the sweetest gesture that warmed Sheridan’s heart.
The woman next to them asked if Sheridan liked the opera.
“It was so good, I almost peed my pants.”
“WHAT?” The woman thought she heard wrong.
Luis said, “She liked it better than “Pirates of Penzance”.
The woman just stood there processing what she thought she heard and what Luis said.
Within an hour, they were back in the hotel, completely exhausted.
“I am so tired, but I don’t want to go to bed yet.” Sheridan said with a yawn.
“How about this. Since I have the day off tomorrow, why don’t you show me what you usually do here in LA? DEAL?”
“You have the day off tomorrow?”
“Actually my mother demanded I take the time off to spend with you. You must have left quite an impression on her.”
“I did?” She had the cutest face Luis had ever seen. She was radiating beauty and complete happiness at that moment.
“Really.” Luis said giving her his smile.
“Then you have a deal.” With that said Luis picked her up and carried her to bed.
The next day, Sheridan and Luis woke up in each other’s arms completely happy. They would steal kisses from each other and just stare into each other’s eyes.
Across town, Martin was waiting for Luis to arrive.
“Where is he?”
“I told him not to come in.” Pilar said while looking at her husband.
“YOU WHAT?” Martin said with a raised voice.
“DON”T YOU DARE YELL AT ME LIKE THAT MR. OR YOU CAN FIND YOURSELF A NEW PLACE TO SLEEP!” Pilar shouted back.
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Post by Nicole Will on Dec 18, 2007 12:58:53 GMT -5
Chapter Twenty
“So where do you want to go first Sher?” Luis asked since he had let her decide on where they would be going today.
“Since you gave me a surprise yesterday, I am giving you one today.” She said with a mischievous smile.
“Oh really?” Luis started walking towards her. He was going to give her the same treatment she gave him when she was trying to get him to tell her about the opera.
“That isn’t going to work Luis. So, you better stop right there.”
“You don’t think I can get you to tell me.” Luis said with a pout.
“I am sure you can’t.” She said with a triumphant smile.
“Fine, but if we don’t leave this room soon, we will be back in there.” He said while pointing to the bedroom.
When Luis and Sheridan were seated in the limo, Sheridan went up to talk to Hank.
“Hank, Can you drop us off at this place?” She said while handing him a note.
“Sher, that isn’t fair. Don’t I get a hint?” Luis pouted.
“Nope and if you don’t stop that I will make you go to work today.”
“You wouldn’t dare kick me out of my own hotel room for the day.”
“You don’t think so, do you?” She said playfully.
“Nope cause you would get punishment. Something like…..like this.” And he leaped at Sheridan in the limo tickling her until she couldn’t laugh anymore.
“Stop it Luis.” She said while laughing.
“Nope. Not until you promise that you will not kick me out and make me go to work.”
“No Way!” She was still laughing.
“Say uncle.”
“Alright Uncle. You can stop now.” And he did. “Thank you.”
“We are here Ms. Crane.” Hank said while Luis looked around.
“Where is exactly here, Sheridan?”
“We are going to do something I haven’t done in years.”
“And that would be?”
“Horse back riding.”
“I am not getting on a horse.” Luis said sternly.
“Is Luis scared of a horse?” She asked playfully.
“NO! I mean no. I have never been riding before.” He said softly.
“WHAT? I can’t hear you.” Sheridan yelled.
“I said I don’t know how to ride.” Luis said louder, almost until he was shouting.
“Well then today is your lucky day because WE are going riding.”
“Oh great.” He said sarcastically.
Sheridan was leading him up to the stables at a place where she used to ride when she was a little girl.
Chapter Twenty-One
“Hi Mama.” Antonio said while getting off the elevators and going up to her to give her a kiss.
“Antonio, I wish to speak to you in your father’s office.” Pilar scolded. Antonio looked over at Martin and Martin just shrugged his shoulders.
After being brought into the office, Pilar shut the door.
“What is all this about, mama?”
“Don’t mama me, Antonio. How could you have Beth flown in when you knew Luis was with Sheridan?”
“But Mama…” Pilar cut him off.
“I have met Sheridan and she is the sweetest girl I have ever met, way better than Beth. And you listen to me Antonio,” Pilar was shaking her finger at him, and raising her voice, “You try and mess up what Luis has going with Sheridan and I will make sure your father NEVER makes you the heir. Did I make myself clear?”
“Yes mama.” Antonio knew it was for the best to just agree with his mother.
“Good.” And Pilar opened the door and walked out.
“Luis come on. The horse is not going to bite you if you pet it.” Sheridan laughed.
Luis gave her a pout and said, “How do you know?”
“Come here.” Sheridan held out her hand for him to take.
When Luis was close to the horse, Sheridan made a NEIGH, which sent Luis running out of the stables. Sheridan was on the ground laughing hysterically.
“What did you mother want to talk to you about son?”
“I was scolded.” Antonio gave Martin a childish look.
“Don’t worry, if it is a talk about Luis and Sheridan I got the same lecture.”
“Why does mama care about Sheridan?”
“Promise to keep a secret?”
“Yeah papa.” Martin knew Antonio wasn’t the brightest or the best to keep secrets, but he needed to get it out.
“Sheridan’s mother and your mother were friends from way back.”
“So.” Martin knew Antonio wasn’t getting it.
“The company we are buying just so happens to be her deceased friend’s company. Pilar doesn’t want to lose Sheridan as well. It is the only connection left to Katherine.”
“I still don’t see why mama wants us to befriend an enemy.”
“ANTONIO LOPEZ FITZGERALD you take that back this instant!” Pilar scolded Antonio.
“Hey mama…he he.” He was faking a laugh.
“Sheridan is nothing like that d**n creep Katherine married. I just met her not to long ago and she seems just like her mother was..” Pilar was in tears thinking about Katherine. Something she hadn’t done in a long time.
After Sheridan finally could control her laughing, she walked out of the stables looking for Luis.
“Luis where did you go?” she hollered. She looked around and couldn’t find him anywhere.
All of a sudden someone from behind grabbed Sheridan and put a hand over her mouth.
When she turned around, she saw the mischievous brown eyes she had ever seen.
“Luis, you scared me.”
“Sorry. I didn’t want the horse to get frightened from your hollering and get loose and chase after me.”
“Luis, the horse isn’t going to chase you. Come back in the stables and lets go ridding.”
“No way. I am not getting on a horse.”
“Luis, we can share a horse. That way I can control the horse.”
“I don’t know Sher.” He looked at the horse and then at Sheridan’s piercing blue eyes. He knew he couldn’t say no to her. “Fine. You control the horse.”
“Thank you.” And she flashed him her signature grin. He couldn’t help, but not smile back at her.
Chapter Twenty-Two
“Luis, you don’t have to hold on to me so tight.” Luis was holding on to Sheridan’s waist so tight, he was cutting off circulation.
“Sorry.”
“It is ok. Just relax.” Luis released the grip enough for Sheridan to breath.
After a few minutes, Luis seemed relaxed enough to enjoy the scenery.
“Hey Luis. Look over there.” Sher pointed out to a field in the near by distance to what looked like a couple having a picnic. The man looked like he was bended on one knee.
“Isn’t that so sweet?” Sher asked Luis while turning her head to look into Luis’s brown eyes. Eyes that she seemed to get lost in all the time.
“Yeah, but not as sweet as this.” He said while capturing her lips against his. After the kiss was over, Sheridan sighed. She could not remember a time in which she was so happy.
“How about we bring this horse back to the stables and go to another spot you like?”
“In a little while. There is a spot I want to take you. It isn’t to much farther.”
“Whatever the lady wants.”
After a few more minutes, they arrived at a small pond with a shady tree right by the pond. Ducks were in the lake. Sheridan jumped off the horse and held her hand out for Luis. When Luis got off the horse, he took in the surroundings.
“Sher this is beautiful.”
“Thanks, my mother used to take me here all the time before she died. We used to ride our horses here and feed the ducks.”
“Sounds like you used to have fun with your mother.”
“I did. I loved her very much and she loved me. Now nobody loves me.”
“That is not true. I know someone who loves you.”
Sheridan had been crying when she was telling Luis about her mother.
“Who?” she asked with tears streaming down her eyes.
“Me.” He said sincerely. Sheridan had more tears going down her cheeks.
“You?”
“Yes Sher, me.” He wiped the tears from her eyes and captured her mouth again, but this wasn’t like any other kiss. This kiss held emotions that before now were left unspoken.
“I love you Sheridan.”
“I love you too Luis.” And they began kissing again. Luis and Sheridan slowly moved lower to the ground where they began to make love right under the shady oak tree, right by the lake.
Chapter Twenty-Three
The cool wind by the lake was cooling down their overheated bodies. Sheridan and Luis were on their sides facing each other, basking in the after glow of their lovemaking.
“I can’t believe you love me.” Sheridan said with her blue eyes sparkling a crystal blue.
“You better believe it, baby.” Luis said while reaching over and giving her little butterfly kisses.
“I have never been this happy since my mother was alive. You have just made me the happiest woman in the world.”
“You have made me the happiest man in the world.” Sheridan blushed at his comment and felt a wave of happiness and peace wash over her when Luis said that.
“You know Luis, I would love to stay like this forever, but I don’t want anyone to come back her on the trail and see us like this and besides I have more places I want to show you.” Luis gave her his Chesire grin and Sheridan smiled back. They have never felt this truly happy in all their lives.
“You are right. I wouldn’t want another man to see how beautiful you look and try to steal you away from me.” Luis said with his mischevious tone.
“You know you have me forever, so don’t worry. I am all yours.” Sheridan grinned.
“Good.” And he leaned in for another kiss. They seemed to forget everything around them when they got lost in each other. Both tuned out the rest of the world. Luis had Sheridan on her back and him on top of her. They were about to go for round two when they heard some voices coming from down the trail.
“Luis, someone is coming.” She whispered with ragged breaths.
“What?” He said back.
“Someone is coming.” She said louder and brought Luis out of his daze.
They quickly got up and through on their clothes. Just as their shirts were put on, a child on a white horse with an older man on a black horse and a woman on the other side of the little boy. It was a family enjoying the beautiful cool day. When the small family rode by, the little brown haired boy waved at Luis and Sheridan. Sheridan couldn’t help but not think about what life would have been like if she married Luis all those years ago. She imagined them having a little boy that resembled Luis and a little girl that looked just like her.
“Sheridan, are you ok?” Luis asked in concern as Sheridan seemed to be in a world of her own.
Sheridan came out of the daydream and looked at Luis. “Luis, do you ever think about what life would have been like if we did get married?” She asked with an insecure voice. She wasn’t sure if she should have brought it up or not.
“Actually I think if we would have gotten married, we probably wouldn’t be like we are today. We probably would have hated each other.”
“You are right. Sorry I brought it up.” Sheridan’s eyes were filling up with tears because Luis didn’t imagine them together forever. Luis saw her tears and wanted to tell her he would love to marry her now, but he thought it was too soon.
“Sher, what I meant was that if he would have married all those years ago, we wouldn’t be this happy and I like being this happy with you. It doesn’t mean that I don’t want to get married someday, but I like the way things are now.”
“You are right. I know you love me and right now that is more than enough.” Even though her thoughts were something different. ‘Why can’t he just ask me now. I would do anything for him to marry me now.’
“So…What do you have planned next?” He tried to cheer her up again. Once he said that her eyes lit up and were the crystal blue again.
“First we have to bring back the horse and then we are going to a club called The Blue Banana.”
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
RING RING
“Hello.” Antonio said with a snobbish voice.
“Hello Antonio.”
“Beth?”
Chapter Twenty-Four
The next morning they awoke, entwined in each other’s arms. They both had the same identical smile of pure bliss written all over their faces.
Luis woke up with the sun streaming through the terrace doors. Next to him was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen and been with. He couldn’t believe that with just saying three words to her, had changed his life for the better. He stared at her and thought she slept beautifully and angelic. Yesterday was the best day of his life.
*Flashback*
“Sher this is beautiful.”
“Thanks, my mother used to take me here all the time before she died. We used to ride our horses here and feed the ducks.”
“Sounds like you used to have fun with your mother.”
“I did. I loved her very much and she loved me. Now nobody loves me.”
“That is not true. I know someone who loves you.”
Sheridan had been crying when she was telling Luis about her mother.
“Who?” she asked with tears streaming down her eyes.
“Me.” He said sincerely. Sheridan had more tears going down her cheeks.
“You?”
“Yes Sher, me.” He wiped the tears from her eyes and captured her mouth again, but this wasn’t like any other kiss. This kiss held emotions that before now were left unspoken.
“I love you Sheridan.”
“I love you too Luis.”
*End Flashback*
Luis thought he knew love before, but with Sheridan, it was something totally different. He was completely addicted to her and never wanted any of it to change. He looked over at his sleeping angel and wanted to make love to her right then, but he knew she needed her sleep. He left her sleep and just stared at her, while he thought about their time at The Blue Banana.
*Flashback*
The limo stopped in front of a blue and yellow building, located in the slump of LA. People walking on the streets stopped to see who was inside the limo. Hank opened the door and helped Luis out, then Sheridan. Sheridan was dressed in a short red dress that fit her curves perfectly. It left room for no imagination. Luis did not like the way the guys around them were ogling his girl. Luis was dressed in his usually suit, but without his tie he usually wore. Sheridan had convinced him to live “dangerously” once and awhile and enjoy life.
Sheridan reached out her hand and entwined his fingers with hers. She walked into the building. Luis stared at his surroundings. People were spray-painting the inside walls and no one seemed to care. There was a group of people on the dance floor dancing to hard rock music and dancing provocatively. Luis wondered what Sheridan actually did here.
Sheridan walked up to the bar with Luis following close behind. He was used to people looking at him, but these stares left him unsure about everyone’s attentions. He knew he should be careful around these people because his father always reminded him to stay away from those of status below him. ‘They are only after you money.’ He remembered his father always saying.
“Hey Pop, is Gwen in here?” Sheridan asked the bald old scraggly man at the bar.
“Not since yesterday, but she should be here soon I am sure.” The man answered.
Sheridan gave him a smile and returned her attention back to Luis.
“Well, I wanted you to meet some of my friends, but they aren’t here right now. Maybe you will have a chance to meet them later if they come later.” She said with disappointment. “Lets dance, baby.” Sheridan grabbed his hand and led him to the dance floor.
“Sher, I don’t know how to dance to this type of music?” And by coincidence, the music suddenly slowed. Angel, by Shaggy started.
“Luis, all you have to do is sway to the music.” They started swaying to the music and Luis was enjoying dancing so close to Sheridan.
He listened to the words and couldn’t believe who the words fit Sheridan. She was definitely his angel. He looked into her eyes and found himself drowning again in her blue eyes. She instinctively moved closer to him and laid her head on his right shoulder. They swayed to the music. Luis put his nose in her hair and inhaled her scent, the smell of her perfume lingered.
*End Flashback*
Sheridan’s stirring brought Luis out of his flashback. He looked down at her and saw her blue eyes open.
“How long have you been awake?” Sheridan yawned and stretched.
“Not long. I’ve just been lying here thinking about yesterday.” He grinned. Sheridan also recalled about what happened after their visit to The Blue Banana.
*Flashback*
Luis and Sheridan walked into the penthouse at about one in the morning; both drunk, considering how much they had to drink at the club. Both were grabbing each other and giving each other advances. Both knew that their love making tonight was going to be more than intense. It was going to be fast and furious. Their need was so apparent that Luis just opened up the door, picked up Sheridan, threw shut the door, and ran into the bedroom for their lovemaking to begin.
Within a matter of seconds, clothes were thrown throughout the room and Luis and Sheridan were naked under the covers, exploring each other.
Luis poised to enter her and in one quick thrust, he thrusted into her. The pace they set was fast and furious, just what they wanted. Sheridan felt the climax approaching and was screaming at Luis, “Faster Baby.”
Their climaxes came and sent them floating through the stars.
*End Flashback*
Sheridan blushed just recalling the previous night’s events.
KNOCK KNOCK
“You could be at the door.” Sheridan asked.
“I have no idea, but it better be for a good reason.” Luis said frustrated. He would rather of had a chance to pick up where they left off last night. Luis got up and put the hotel’s bulky robe. So did Sheridan and they went to answer the door.
When they opened they door, they were surprised to see BETH.
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Post by Nicole Will on Dec 18, 2007 12:59:35 GMT -5
Chapter Twenty-Five
“Beth, what do you want?” Luis said in an annoyed voice. Sheridan tightened the sash on her robe.
“I am surprised.” Beth said while looking Luis up and down, sending a wave of jeolousy wash over Sheridan.
“What do you mean, Beth?” Luis said while his teeth clutched together and his hands formed to fists.
“You never had a fling last this long before.” She said while batting her eyes at Luis. Sheridan couldn’t take it anymore and she stepped into the conversation.
“How dare you?” Sheridan had her arms crossed in front of her and giving Beth the “you’re dead’ stare. Beth couldn’t help but not shiver at her look.
“Beth, I LOVE SHERIDAN, not you. So please leave.” Beth just stood there inside the doorframe so Luis or Sheridan couldn’t shut the door on her face.
“I am not leaving until I get what I want.” Beth took on the look of seducer. Sheridan was furious at Beth.
“You better leave now before I do something I will regret.” Sheridan spat at Beth.
“That wouldn’t be a threat is it.” Beth said getting angry.
“You be….” Luis stepped in between them and tried to stop the spat that was about to break out.
“Beth, I told you we were through and I mean it.” He was trying his best to stop the rage that was building in Sheridan. He knew by her eyes just how much rage was there.
“Luis, I don’t want it to be over. I love you.” Beth said coming down from her rage and now was showing signs of weakness. She was actually crying.
“Beth, I love Sheridan. Get over it.”
“You always come back to me after a few days of your flings. Why does this one matter more to you than anything?”
“I have never had a fling with anyone, now quit trying to ruin my relationship with Sheridan.”
Sheridan had heard enough of the conversation and went up to Beth, right in her face.
“Get the hell out, NOW!!” She pushed Beth out the door and slammed it. Luis knew she was livid by the way she stormed up to Beth and by the way her foot was tapping on the ground as she studied Luis.
“So you have had many other FLINGS? Is that all I am too? I should have known better than to fall in love with you.”
Sheridan stormed into the bedroom, she and Luis had just vacated a few minutes ago. Luis tried to follow her, but got the door slammed in his face. He could hear Beth still pounding on the other door.
‘Man, doesn’t she ever give up?’ Luis thought. “Sher, open up baby.” Luis could hear her crying on the other side of the door.
‘Time, I will give her time and then talk to her.’ Luis thought as he walked into the bar area and grabbed a bottle of vodka out of the wet bar.
Chapter Twenty-Six
“Hotel Security. Yes, I have a problem with a woman who keeps pounding on my door and won’t leave. Penthouse. Thank you.” Luis hung up the phone, hoping now that Beth would get the hint and leave.
He heard the ding from the elevator and Beth’s voice pleading with the security guards outside the door. He couldn’t help but not chuckle at the guards lifting Beth up and dragging her into the elevator.
His chuckle stopped when he heard the bedroom door open and saw Sheridan’s red eyes and a tear trail still visible on her cheek.
“Luis, we need to talk.” Sheridan walked over to the sofa and sat down, hoping Luis would follow her.
“Def..defnitly.” He slurred. The vodka was now in effect.
Sheridan looked over at the wet bar and saw tiny empty vodka bottles all over.
“Luis, you didn’t drink all that, did you?” already knowing the answer.
“So what if I did. I needed to drown my sorrows in something.” Luis never drank so much in his life before.
“You can get sick with all that you had to drink.” Sheridan was furious with him.
“What do you care?” The alcohol was making Luis more moody than usual.
“I do care, more than you know.” Sheridan crossed her arms in front of her, giving Luis her famous stare.
“Really? Is that why you stormed out here when Beth trying to make you turn against me?” His words were becoming mumbled together.
“Why do I even bother with you?” Sheridan asked.
“I don’t know. You tell me.”
Sheridan suddenly began to cry again, letting her anger cool. Luis hated seeing her cry, so he too began to cool down.
“I so sorry, baby. I would never intentionally hurt you.” Luis wrapped his arms around her, bringing her closer to him. Sheridan cried into his shoulder.
“I know Luis, but when Beth said I was just another fling, it hurt me. I have always had my heart broken and I can’t live like that anymore.”
She heard silence from Luis. When she looked up, she saw Luis passed out from all the alcohol he consumed.
“You sleep, we can talk tomorrow.” Sheridan kissed him on the cheek and laid him down on the sofa, covering him up with a thin blanket.
KNOCK KNOCK
Sheridan walked over to the door and looked into the peephole, making sure it wasn’t Beth again.
When she looked out, she saw Pilar, Martin, Antonio, Theresa, and two other people she didn’t recognize.
She opened the door.
“Hello Sheridan. We thought we would surprise Luis.” Pilar said.
“He is sleeping right now, but please come in.”
The family walked in and saw Luis on the sofa. He was mumbling something in his sleep.
“Sheridan, mmm.” Sheridan instantly blushed a deep shade of red.
“Luis, wake up.” She was trying to get him to wake up.
“Sleeping” was all Luis would say.
“You does this all the time when someone tries to wake him up,” Pilar said.
“LUIS” Sheridan said while giving Luis a pinch in the butt, that didn’t go unnoticed by the family.
“OUCH!” Luis instantly woke up and stared at Sheridan.
“We have company.” Sheridan motioned her eyes for Luis to look at his family. He was still groggy from all the alcohol.
“Mama, papa, why are there two of you?”
Pilar and Martin both looked at each other, puzzled. Luis suddenly had the urge to vomit and ran to the bathroom.
Everyone laughed at Luis.
“He had too much to drink.” Sheridan said.
“Luis drink?” The young petite dark haired, brown-eyed girl asked.
“I have never seen Luis drink before. What have you done to him Sheridan?” Theresa asked.
“Probably trying to get money out of him.” Antonio grumbled.
“ANTONIO LOPEZ-FITZGERALD.” Pilar yelled.
“Sorry mama.” Antonio said.
All of a sudden, they heard someone moaning in the bedroom. Sheridan went to go check it out, with everyone else behind her. There they saw Luis passed out on the bed.
Chapter 27
“Where is my camera?” laughed Miguel.
“MIJO. This is not funny.” Pilar scolded Miguel, but couldn’t help laughing at Luis.
The family turned to Sheridan and Pilar asked, “How have you been Sheridan?”
“I am good.” Sheridan used quick short answers to the family’s questions. She was so nervous and not to have Luis present during the “interrogation” made her even more nervous.
Pilar sensed her nervousness and tried to make her feel right at home.
“Sheridan, I don’t think you met Luis’ sisters and brothers.”
“I have met Theresa and Antonio.” Sheridan said.
“This is Paloma and Miguel.” Pilar said while pointing to the strangers Sheridan had noticed when they walked in.
“Tell me how you and Luis met.” Paloma asked.
Antonio muffled under his breath, “Oh brother.” Pilar nudged Antonio in the side for him to be quiet.
*Flashback*
Luis stopped his car right by the sidewalk. “Excuse me. Can you tell me where I can find Beverly Hills?”
After hearing a voice behind her, Sheridan turns around and gazes at the most gorgeous brown eyes she has ever seen. “Did you say something?” Sheridan asked, unable to stop staring at him.
Luis chuckled and said, “Yeah, I am looking for Beverly Hills. Can you give me directions on how to get there?” Luis couldn’t help but think she was beautiful. He just kept staring into her blue eyes.
He was lost in her eyes when he heard her say, “Sure but it is going to cost ya.”
“You can’t be serious. Fine I will find it myself. Thanks anyway.”
Luis was just about to drive off when Sheridan said, “Don’t worry about it. I will show you where to go.”
Luis got a questioned look on his face. “Show? What do you mean?”
“Well, it is easier to get there if you have someone with you who knows where they are going. Right?”
“I guess. Hop on in.” Luis unlocked the door and Sheridan hopped in.
*End Flashback*
“That was so cute.” Theresa said. Theresa had the dreamy look in her eyes and was about to say, “Theresa, don’t even say FATE.” Paloma interrupted.
The family laughed and Sheridan couldn’t help, but feel like part of the family.
“I knew your mother, Sheridan.” Pilar said, noticing Sheridan smile with the simple mention of her mother.
“You did.” Sheridan had the brightest smile that could light up the room.
“She was my best friend in boarding school and we continued being friends up until the day she died.”
“I don’t remember you being around when I was young.”
“Well, Alistair never allowed it. When she became engaged to your father….”
*Flashback*
“Katherine, Why don’t you just leave Alistair? You don’t want to move to LA.” A twenty-year-old Pilar said.
“You know I can’t do that. This marriage was arranged. I am stuck with him till the day I die.” Katherine spat.
“I don’t know why we can’t stay in touch at least.”
“Alistair is going to be my husband and I have to obey his wishes.”
“Will you at least write to me if you have any children and how your life is going?”
“You bet.” Katherine hugged Pilar, the last hug they gave each other.
*End Flashback*
Sheridan had tears flowing from her cheeks, as did Pilar.
“She never told me any of that.” Sheridan sniffled.
“She wanted you to have a happy life.” Pilar said.
“If my father didn’t like you, then why was I arranged to marry Luis?”
“Because I married Martin.”
Pilar could see the confused look on Sheridan’s face.
“Martin is like Alistair. Powerful, famous, and loaded with money.”
“Was yours an arranged marriage?”
“Heaven’s NO. I loved Martin. My family was happy that I chose Martin, but I didn’t choose him for his money or power. I loved him for him and that is what I wanted for my son. However, when Martin said it was you, he had arranged marriage with; I couldn’t help but not think about Katherine. I thought I could protect you if you were in New York and away from your father.”
“Oh Pilar.” Sheridan and Pilar embraced in a hug, tears flowing down both their faces.
Hours had gone by and Luis was still passed out on the bed. The Lopez-Fitzgeralds were getting to know Sheridan, hoping that she would someday be family. Sheridan felt like she belonged for the first time to a real family. Pilar and her had found a connection, her mother.
The door to the bedroom squeaked open and Luis walked out with the look of death on his face. Pilar could tell that her son had one major hangover.
“Luis, it is good to see you up.” Pilar said.
“Yeah son, I need to talk with you about umm…business.” Martin said.
“Papa, I am not in the mood for business.” Luis wined.
Martin took Luis’ hand and guiding him back to the bedroom. Antonio and Miguel followed, shutting the door behind them.
Sheridan looked at the girls and asked, “What is going on?”
“Forget about them. We have something to ask you?” Paloma said. The girls crowded around Sheridan, asking her what they hoped would become true.
Chapter Twenty-Eight
“Forget about them. We have something to ask you?” Paloma said.
“What do you want to ask me?” Sheridan asked wearily.
“Well, we have all noticed a change in Luis, one for the better.” Theresa said.
“What do you mean a change?” Sheridan wasn’t sure at what they were getting at.
“Luis was never one to forget about a business deal. He was always into the right of the family.” Paloma said.
“That is right. He hasn’t even thought about going after your family since the two of you have been together.” Pilar added.
“What does this have to do with me?” Sheridan was having many different thoughts going through her mind about why Luis’ family was there in the first place and why the girls wanted to talk to her.
“This has everything to do with you Sheridan.” Theresa smiled at Sheridan, a dopey smile. Sheridan had already realized that Theresa was the dreamer, the one that believed that love changed everything about a person.
Paloma was the girl that had her goals set. Her motto was if you want something done, you have to do it yourself. She didn’t believe in fate, like Theresa did.
Pilar was the sweetest woman Sheridan had ever met, and now to know of the connection her mother had with Pilar made Sheridan’s bond with her even stronger.
Sheridan wasn’t sure what to think about Martin. He just sat there on the sofa a few minutes earlier before he hauled Luis and the boys into the bedroom. He seemed to listen to what Pilar said and made sure to follow her orders even though he wanted everyone to believe he was boss.
Antonio was the troublemaker. He was constantly competing for his parents’ attention. She learned that about him from the few times she had met him.
Miguel was the caring little brother. He seemed to make sure anyone of his family members were taken care of, just like Luis.
‘Luis’ She thought. She looked at the closed bedroom door and wondered what was going on in there.
She was completely in a daze about what Pilar, Theresa, and Paloma were talking about.
“Sheridan?” Theresa asked. “Are you ok?”
Sheridan broke out of her daze and looked back at the group in front of her. Theresa had that look on her again, the one that said fate.
“What?” Sheridan finally managed to stutter out.
“You were thinking about Luis, weren’t you?” Theresa was going to be the death of Sheridan yet.
“How can you tell?” Sheridan said turning a bright shade of red.
“Don’t worry about Theresa, Sheridan. She has her head so far up in the clouds most of the time, no one pays attention to her.” Paloma spat out.
“What was it that you wanted to ask me?” Sheridan said while gaining back some of her composure.
“We want you to marry Luis.” Pilar said very bluntly.
“WHAT?”
-------------------------------------------------------
Inside the bedroom, Luis was listening to his father talk about business, but Martin seemed to be hinting at something else as well.
“So my son. It is important to the business that you help bring down Mr. Crane and his business.”
“I can’t do that, Papa. I am not going to ruin my chance at a future with Sheridan, one that I can be happy with.” Luis was letting his temper rise.
“You can be with Sheridan and I can have the company.” Martin said.
“How?”
“Why little brother, don’t you understand anything?” Antonio asked annoyed. Why did he have to be here? He still thought Sheridan was nothing, but a sleeper after the family’s money.
“Antonio, stay out of this.” Martin yelled. Miguel was sitting on the bed listening to his brothers argue with their dad about business. One thing was for sure and that was he was going to stay out of it.
“Papa, I don’t see how I could still be with Sheridan and you have her family’s company.”
“It is easy. All you have to do is have Sheridan agree to have the company changed into her name and you can marry her. That way it is really a part of your company as well, and you also get to be married to her.”
“Marriage? I know this is too soon for the both of us to be getting married, and how about if she doesn’t agree with your idea?”
“She will, otherwise I will have to destroy the company and sell little sections of the stock to make a better profit.” Martin was letting his temper rise as well.
“Yeah, don’t worry Luis. Sheridan said she wanted the company to remain the way it is so she had something for her to remember her mother by.” Antonio spat.
Luis and Martin both yelled, “SHUT UP!”
Antonio fell silent. Miguel was having a hard time trying to hold in his laughter. He knew what was going on in the next room as well. On the way over here, Theresa had let it slipped out that the girls were going to try to convince Sheridan to marry Luis, and here Luis was almost getting the same lecture, just for different reasons.
The coincidence of things.
Chapter Twenty-Nine
“You want me to marry Luis?” Sheridan asked with her eyes bulging out. She thought she had heard them wrong. I mean marriage was a big responsibility and two people who are in love with each other should decide about marriage. Here Luis’ family was the one doing the proposing.
“Yes Sheridan.” Theresa said. “We want you to marry Luis.”
“Come on Sheridan. We know you love each other. Why not just ask Luis yourself. This isn’t the fifties anymore.” Paloma said after agreeing with her sister.
Pilar stood up from the white chair to the left of the sofa and sat down next to Sheridan. “I told your mother I would look after you before she passed away. That is not why I am asking you to marry Luis; I just want what is best for all my children. And I consider you one of my children Sheridan.” Pilar cried out.
Sheridan had tears in her eyes and she couldn’t stop them from falling down her face.
“I don’t know if I can marry Luis. I want to marry someone who wants to marry me. I don’t want to pressure him into something he doesn’t want.” Sheridan kept on ramblings, thinking of any excuse to get them to back off of this ridiculous proposal.
Pilar put her finger to Sheridan’s mouth to get her to stop rambling. “Sheridan, if my son didn’t love you then why would he still have you living here with him?”
“Because he feels sorry for me.” She answered quietly
“Sher, come on. I don’t think Luis would sleep with just anyone.” Theresa said very bluntly.
“Mija.” Pilar scolded. “You have no right interfering in the sex life.”
Sheridan turned bright red. She hadn’t realized that they knew Luis slept with her. ‘Well wait, Beth did see them together. Maybe she told them.’ Sheridan thought.
“No need to get embarrassed Sheridan.” Paloma said. “We all learned to ignore Theresa here.”
Sheridan couldn’t help but laugh with the rest of them. She felt totally free.
Maybe she could go through with this after all. They already considered her family and she did the same. All she had to wait for now was telling her father that she plans on marrying Luis and of course she had to tell the groom to be.
---------------------------------------------------
Luis paced the bedroom floor. What was his family thinking, marrying Sheridan for her company? He loved her and WHEN he was ready to ask her, he would. He didn’t want his family to hurry him up. But the more he thought about marrying Sheridan now, the more it appealed to him.
“I don’t know, Papa.” Luis said. Antonio was still sitting there on the bed with Miguel, hoping Luis wasn’t going to agree with this. He wanted to destroy that company right in front of Sheridan and her family. After all, it was her family that ruined his life.
*Antonio’s Flashback*
“Antonio, that was the best time I ever had.” Kimberly Crane said. They had just enjoyed the best time at the beach. Kimberly was the cousin to Sheridan through Alistair. Sheridan and Kimberly were always close until Sheridan’s uncle, Alfred married her off.
Antonio nibbled on her ear lobe. Kimberly let out the cutest giggle he ever heard. He was head over heels in love with her. Antonio had walked Kimberly to her family’s mansion when the door suddenly opened.
There stood Alfred Crane, tapping his foot on the marble floor in the walk in. He grabbed Kimberly so fast and pushed her inside.
Kimberly stretched out her arms for Antonio to grab her; But Alfred pushed away Antonio’s arms and yelled, “d**n Latin trash. Stay away from my daughter.” He slammed the door and that was the last he heard from Kimberly.
Of course, he read in the newspaper a few weeks later that she had married Travis Webster, the wealthy owner of many fine grape vine orchards in California.
Antonio was devastated and planned to get revenge on the entire Crane family.
*End Flashback*
Antonio sat there and wondered what Kimberly was doing now. ‘Probably has some spoiled brats by now.’ He thought bitterly. He stopped daydreaming and began concentrating on his plan to ruin Sheridan Crane’s life.
Luis was still pacing and was wearing out the carpet from all his pacing around.
“Luis, you know she is the one. Why not speed up the process of beginning your life with her?” Miguel suggested.
“It is easier said then done, Miguel.” Luis spat. He was becoming easily frustrated.
“Son, why don’t you think about it for awhile and tell me your decision after the Polo game. You are going, aren’t you?” Martin asked.
“I forgot about that Papa, but yes I will be there.”
“What about Sheridan?” Antonio asked. He needed to know if he could get Sheridan alone for a while and start his plan.
“Yes, I am sure Sheridan will come with me.”
“Well, why not ask her? We need to leave now if we are going.” Martin said.
------------------------------------------
Sheridan heard the door creep open and out popped Luis and the rest of the boys. Luis seemed to have something on his mind. For some reason Sheridan could sense that about him.
Luis walked over to Sheridan and held her right hand. He was nervous about something.
“My family would like to know if you would like to come with us to a Polo game.” Luis asked.
Sheridan was somewhat disappointed that he didn’t ask what she wanted him to ask.
She smiled at him and said, “I wouldn’t miss it.”
Luis smiled his million-dollar smile right back at her. She felt a wave of happiness rush over her.
“Do you know what polo is Sheridan?” Theresa asked.
Sheridan blushed; she was embarrassed to say that she had no idea what it is. Luis sensed that she had no idea what it was and he squeezed her hand for reassurance.
Sheridan squeezed it back and looked at Luis. Pilar and the girls knew that this was true love and they would be together by the end of the night, if they had anything to say about it.
Luis looked back at his family and said, “Well, lets go. We don’t want to miss this.”
The Lopez-Fitzgerald family walked out of the penthouse. The girls and Miguel hoping that true love would win today. Martin hoping for a business merger, and Antonio hoping for revenge.
What was this day going to come to?
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Post by Nicole Will on Dec 18, 2007 13:00:40 GMT -5
Chapter Thirty
Sheridan was snuggled in bed with Luis sthingying, thinking about her day with Luis and the rest of the family. She had never been to a polo game and now after witnessing it, she wondered what others saw in it.
She had fun, but she kept getting this feeling that all was not what it seemed with Luis and his family. Luis had something on his mind that was sure. After all, falling from the divots you are supposed to be repairing was the major clue. She wasn’t sure how many times he had fallen and taken her down with him. But as much fun Luis was when he realized he had fallen down again and laughed hysterically, Sheridan knew he was holding out on something. ‘What was on his mind?’ She thought as she turned to face Luis, getting out of her sthingying position.
What was on any of his family’s mind? Antonio kept a watchful eye on her. She kept getting the chills at just thinking about the look he was giving her. It was the look of death. Just what was his problem with her and her family? She was hoping that by now, Antonio would have accepted her as Luis’ love, but after a week with Luis, she soon found out that was never going to happen.
‘A week had passed.’ Sher thought absentmindedly and soon realized that Luis was leaving in two days to go back to New York. The thought pained her. How would she get on without the love of her life? They never had discussed what would happen when he was to leave. Tears started falling from her cheeks and running down her face and hitting her white pillow, clearly showing each and every spot tears had hit.
Luis woke up from what seemed to be Sheridan crying. He opened his eyes and saw the tears flowing down her cheeks. What had made her so upset? He thought that she had a wonderful day with his family and was hoping that there would be more like that.
Luis lifted his right hand and wiped away the tears that were falling. Sheridan opened her eyes and there were Luis’ beautiful brown eyes, staring back at her. He had this look in his eyes that Sheridan had never seen. He looked like he was in pain himself. Never had anyone felt this way about her that whenever she was in pain so was he. He loved her that much. But what Sheridan couldn’t figure out was why hadn’t Luis asked her to go with him or tell her that he was staying with her.
“Sher, what is wrong?” Luis asked very concerned.
“Nothing Luis. Just go back to sleep.” Sheridan said while turning around in the bed, so she wasn’t facing Luis.
“There is something wrong otherwise you wouldn’t be upset and it hurts to see you like this.” Sheridan turned around again and stared at Luis.
“Do you realize that you are leaving in two days to go back to New York? What is going to happen to us?” Luis finally realized why she was upset. She had thought that he was just going to leave her.
He wasn’t leaving her. All day long, he kept on thinking of the perfect way to ask her to move in with him in New York. Sure it wasn’t the marriage proposal he wanted to give her, but he thought she wasn’t ready to get married and neither was he at this point. They HAD just met a week ago.
“I was thinking about that today Sher.” Luis said as his eyes connected with hers again. “This isn’t the perfect way I was hoping to do this..but…” Sheridan was hoping her proposal was coming, but it never came.
“I was hoping that you would come back to New York with me. I could get you an apartment and a job.” Luis quickly blurted out. Sheridan sat there stunned.
“You are going to get me a job and an apartment.” She said stunned.
“It will get you off the streets.” Luis quickly realized he had made a mistake as he had seen anger flash across Sheridan’s face.
“I don’t believe you. Here I thought you loved me. Boy am I stupid.” She quickly got out of bed, ran into the bathroom, and slammed the door.
Luis was in for it now.
Chapter Thirty-One
Sheridan woke up, still on the bathroom floor. She felt like her whole world was falling apart. She rose from the bathroom floor, opened the door, and looked around the bedroom. Luis was nowhere to be found.
“Where did he go?” Sheridan said aloud. It wasn’t like him to leave her without letting her know. Maybe she could call the office and see if he was there. No she wasn’t going to do that, she couldn’t make herself seem needy to Luis and he offered her another house, car, and who knows what else. Why couldn’t he just understand that all she wanted was his heart, his everlasting love, her fairy tale?
Sheridan decided she couldn’t stay in the penthouse another night. It would just hurt her more than ever. She needed to leave as soon as possible. She quickly went back into the bathroom and took a shower.
When she was getting dressed, she kept looking around the room, memories invading her mind.
*Flashback*
Once the elevator was closed, they started kissing each other passionately. Their lips were everywhere, on the lips, face, neck, and Luis even started pulling down the straps to Sheridan’s dress and kissing her there. When the doors opened, they pulled away from each other and looked into each other’s eyes. It was like they were looking into each other’s hearts and souls. One look into their eyes both knew what was going to happen next. Luis entwined his fingers with hers and walked to THEIR hotel room.
Once the door was opened, Luis picked Sheridan up and headed towards the bedroom. They just looked at each other, loving the new feelings that were unleashed.
*End Flashback*
Just thinking about that night of pure passion, the love they felt for each other brought so much sadness to Sheridan. How could things end like this? They were so happy until Luis decided to BUY her things instead of loving her, something she needed desperately.
Where was she going to go now? Could she call her family after all these years and pretend nothing happened? How could she get on with her life without Luis?
More memories flooded Sheridan’s mind.
*Flashback*
Luis and Sheridan were busy drying each other off and giving little butterfly kisses on the lips every once and awhile. Once they were completely dried off, Luis picked up Sheridan and opened the bathroom door.
The next thing Luis knew was that he had a surprise waiting.
“Luis you ordered room service. How sweet.” Sheridan said.
“Sher, I didn’t do this. They must have brought it to the wrong room.”
“Well it is here now, so lets enjoy it. By the way, what is that surprise you told me about?”
“You will just have to wait and see, baby?” And they began to kiss.
*End Flashback*
Sheridan was going to lose control if she stayed in the hotel room any longer. She quickly starting throwing her clothes in a suitcase she found in the closet.
DING DONG
The doorbell brought Sheridan out of her state and she quickly closed the suitcase and brought it out into the sitting area. She set it down by the bar and went to answer the door. There stood Antonio, the disturbing smile plastered on his face scared Sheridan. What was he up to?
“Antonio, what are you doing here?” Sheridan asked while quickly walking away.
Antonio shut the door behind him and stared at her. It was unnerving.
“I am looking for my golly of a brother.” Antonio spat.
“And all this time, I thought it was you.” Sheridan smirked. “What did Luis do that you are so upset about?”
“Before my brother met you, he didn’t blow off million dollar deals for some woman. He is helping your family, THE CRANES, get back on their feet.” Antonio’s fury was coming forth.
“What problem do you have with my family?” Sheridan did her stance, the arms folded across the chest, her foot tapping.
“They took Kimberly away from me.” Antonio stood there eying her.
“You are the one Kimberly is in love with?”
“We were in love until your family married her off.”
“My uncle did, not the rest of my family. And by the way, she divorced him after she caught him in bed with the housekeeper.” Sheridan said as she walked to the bar and took out a bottle of vodka. She gulped it down and Antonio stood there watching her.
He seemed apprehensive to ask this question, but he needed to know. “Do you know where she is?”
“Yes, I do. In fact, I am moving in with her after I get my bags down stairs.” Sheridan said.
“But I thought Luis was going to marry you? He proposed, didn’t he?”
Sheridan stood there speechless. Was Luis really going to propose to her? And when?
Sheridan couldn’t think about that, she needed to get out. As she grabbed her suitcase, Luis walked through the doors, spotting Sheridan with a suitcase and Antonio on the sofa, looking like his life was happy again.
“Where do you think you are going Sheridan?”
Chapter Thirty-Two
“Where do you think you are going?” Luis asked concerned. He looked around the room and saw everything of hers gone from where it was, all in suitcases. Antonio was sitting on the sofa, a smile plastered on his face.
“Luis!” Sheridan said surprised. She wasn’t expecting him here when she left. This made it even the more harder than before. How could she just walk out of the love of her life? She had too. He wasn’t going to marry her. No matter what Antonio said before about Luis asking her, if he was serious about asking her he would have done it already. Instead, he asked him to move to New York with him, but this was not even in the same apartment. He had said he would get her an apartment and I job. “I wasn’t expecting you here this early.”
Luis was getting furious. Sheridan was leaving him, and why was Antonio here with a smile plastered on his face. ‘That golly , finally convinced her to leave him.’ Thoughts were floating through Luis’ mind. ‘Maybe Sher doesn’t love me as much as I love her. She wouldn’t leave me if she loved me. Was Antonio right? Are the Cranes users?’ “I can see that, but you didn’t answer my question.” Sheridan could see anger and hurt in his eyes. She couldn’t face him anymore, so she bent her head down to the floor.
Luis turned to Antonio. “So you finally convince Sheridan to leave me, huh?”
“Luis, I did no such thing. I am here wondering why you let go of a million-dollar deal.” Antonio’s anger soon matched Luis’.
“I didn’t want to ruin a GREAT chance I had with someone, but someone else messed it up on me.” Sheridan knew Luis was talking about her. If he truly felt that way, then why doesn’t he ask her?
When Sheridan turned her head back to Luis and Antonio, she saw them no longer standing and arguing, this time the were on the floor fighting like little boys do. Sheridan couldn’t help but laugh at the scene. Here were two boys still trying to beat each other at their own games.
Sher just stood there watching the scene in front of her. Her mind wondered and she started picturing a scene like this with two little boys in a bedroom. The two little boys were replicas of Luis. Sheridan snapped out of her dream when she realized she was dreaming about her and Luis’ children. ‘Stop it Sheridan. It will never happen.’
When Sheridan turned her attention back to Luis and Antonio, they were not on the floor anymore, but Luis had Antonio by the collar of his shirt, throwing him out. The door slammed shut and Sheridan flinched. She knew this was going to be the hardest part yet.
“Sheridan” Luis said, his voice calming down. “Why are you leaving me?” He had tears forming in his eyes. Sheridan knew that if she didn’t leave soon, she would lose all nerve and stay with him in a life she didn’t want.
“I can’t stay Luis.” Sheridan said with a shaky voice.
“Why not?” Luis was choking back the sobs that were ready to escape.
“I want my fairy tail, not some apartment and job. I’m sorry.” Sher said as she picked up her suitcases and walked to the door. Luis quickly got up and walked to the door. Sheridan opened the door, and turned to face Luis.
“Please Sher, at least stay the last night with me?” Luis was pleading. He needed her, forever. If he could only get the last 24 hours to convince her to stay with him.
“This will only be harder tomorrow. I need to go.”
“But where are you going?” Luis asked concerned that she would be back on the streets.
“My cousin Kimberly has a house here in Beverly Hills. I will be staying with her.”
“Oh.” Luis couldn’t believe she had this all planned out already. She was actually leaving him. “Can I ask you a question, Sheridan?”
“Sure Luis.” She smiled at him, making his heart flutter.
“Why was Antonio here with you?” Sheridan knew Luis was jealous.
“Antonio was here asking where you were because of the meeting you guys had and then he finally told me why he hates me so much.”
“Why does Antonio hate you so much?” Luis asked curious.
“The girl he lost was Kimberly Crane, my cousin.” Luis now knew why Antonio was out to get the Cranes. He had lost the woman of his dreams and Luis was about to have the same thing happen to him, another Crane. “I should be going now.” Sheridan walked out into the hallway, pushing the elevator button going down.
Tears slowly slipped down her cheeks as the elevator door opened. She walked in and said, “Good bye Luis.” And the doors closed.
“I love you Sheridan. Good bye and I hope you find your happiness.” He whispered into the silent hallway.
Chapter Thirty-Three
Luis sat on the sofa, Antonio staring at him. Antonio had come back shortly after Sheridan left. He had never seen Luis so down.
Luis took another gulp of the Brandy bottle in his hands. Antonio could smell the liquor all over him. The room was getting the same distinct smell Luis’ body reeked of.
“Luis, you can’t drown your sorrows for too long.” Antonio said hoping Luis would quit drinking enough to let Antonio speak. Luis looked over at Antonio and gave the “leave me alone” look. Antonio sighed, hoping that eventually he would quit drinking otherwise Antonio was whipping that bottle out of the window.
“Luis, look at yourself. You know if you were smart, you would have proposed to her like you wanted.
Luis finally put the bottle down and glared at Antonio. “I asked her to move to New York with me and she turned me down. What makes you think she would want to marry me?” Luis scowled.
“Maybe because she was talking to mama, Theresa, and Paloma about it.” Luis quickly turned to look Antonio in the eyes.
“Are you positive?” He asked, with hope shining in his eyes. Antonio chuckled at his little brother. Why didn’t he see sooner that Luis and Sheridan belonged together? Antonio was hoping for a reunion with his love, Kimberly. If Sheridan and Luis got back together, then maybe Sheridan will help get Antonio back for her. Antonio was deliriously happy for Luis and himself.
“What do you mean am I positive? I was at dinner last night with the family while they discussed you marrying Sheridan.”
Luis suddenly got sad again thinking that he blew his chance with his love. She left him and there was nothing he could do about it.
“Luis, what’s wrong?” Antonio asked concerned for his brother’s sudden change in emotions.
“She left me and I have no idea where she is.” Luis sighed.
Antonio got a grin on his face. “Well, I do know the name of the person she is staying with and I happened to take the same cab as Sheridan last night, so I do know where she is.”
Luis smiled happily. All he had to do now was go out there and buy her a ring. Then go to where she was at and propose. “Well, where is she?”
“She is with her cousin Kimberly Crane, not too far from here.”
“Kimberly?” Luis asked, knowing that name sounded familiar to him.
Antonio went into the evening explaining Luis all about Kimberly and how much he wanted her back. The rain outside stopped at sunrise, clearly displaying that today was going to be a beautiful day.
Luis woke up on the sofa with Antonio in the recliner. Both had stayed up late discussing how their lives would change after today. The brothers now had a stronger bond than before.
Luis and Antonio left the penthouse, going ring shopping for Luis’ hopefully bride to be. Only Sheridan would be able to answer that one question Luis was hoping she would say yes too.
Would she?
Chapter Thirty-Four
Sheridan had arrived at Kimberly’s house, the rain pouring as she stepped out of the cab. Antonio had driven with her, so he could see where his love lived. It was a medium size house for Beverly Hills, a simple brick house with the cute white picket fence. You would never know a Crane lived there. Of course Antonio never imagined Sheridan to be as sweet and caring as Kimberly was.
The cab took of once Sheridan’s bags were out of the trunk. She waved bye to Antonio, stepped up to the door, and knocked waiting for her cousin to answer. Sheridan was beyond felling heartbreak when she arrived at Kimberly’s door. When the door opened, Kimberly saw the tears streaming her cousin’s face. She escorted Sheridan inside the house and closed the door.
-----------------------------------
Tears were streaming down Sheridan’s face, as she was telling her cousin all about the love of her life and how she walked out on him. She however, did not mention the fact that he was a Lopez-Fitzgerald. She was going to wait until the time was right to mention the fact that she was in love with the brother of Kimberly’s love, Antonio.
“It’s going to be ok Sheridan. We are going to have the time of our lives.” Kimberly whispered in her cousin’s ear, trying to sooth her.
“But I want the time of my life to be with Luis.” Sheridan sniffed.
“It is late. Why don’t you go upstairs and get some sleep? I have the guest room all ready for you.”
“I can’t sleep, not yet anyway. I just need to think.” Sheridan whispered. Sheridan suddenly was drawn to a photo on the mantle of the fireplace. It was a picture of a dark haired, brown-eyed boy. The identical resemblance to Luis and…
“Oh my god. It can’t be.” Sheridan suddenly turned to face her cousin.
“Who is that?” Sheridan said pointing to the photo.
“Umm. That is….” Kimberly couldn’t just admit that she had hidden the fact that she had a son away from Sheridan, could she?
“Out with it.” Sheridan said in a more firm tone, making sure her cousin knew she wanted the TRUTH.
“He is my son.” Kimberly sighed.
“YOU HAVE A SON?? And I didn’t know about this?” Sheridan asked almost not believing what she just heard.
“I kept him a secret from a lot of the family. You know my ex husband wouldn’t allow me to leave him, so we pretended it was his and since our family doesn’t care about us unless it harms the family, they didn’t know.”
“It isn’t his?” Sheridan said in a state of shock. “It is Antonio’s?”
“Kimberly looked down, “Yes.”
“Are you going to tell Antonio?” Sheridan asked.
“It isn’t like you know him, so what do you care?” Her cousin snapped. Sheridan looked down at the floor.
“You do know him? Where is he?” She asked getting excited.
“Antonio is Luis’ brother.” Sheridan said, hearing her cousin get excited at the possible reunion to her true love. “You know what, I am getting tired. Can we talk about this in the morning?” Sheridan asked. She knew her cousin had a lot to think about.
“Ok.” Kimberly whispered, just staring into space. Sheridan walked up the stairs and went to bed.
----------------------------------
The next day, Sheridan woke up to the sun shining brightly. ‘It stopped raining’ Sher thought in an almost happy mood. Maybe the sky was telling her happiness in the air, not for her, but for her cousin.
Kimberly would soon be reunited with her love. Sheridan was hoping she too was going to be reunited with Luis, but she quickly chased that thought out of her mind.
Sheridan walked down stairs to find a little boy watching cartoons in the living room. The same boy in the photo on the mantle. Sheridan walked up to him and bent down to his height.
“What is your name?” She asked. The little boy was unsure how to react to a stranger in his house, but remembered his mother telling him that her cousin was coming over to stay with them.
“I am Alexander Antonio.” The little boy whispered.
Sheridan smiled and said, “Nice to meet you. I am Sheridan.” She smiled at him and he smiled back. He was definitely a Lopez-Fitzgerald. Kimberly came down and saw Sheridan with Alex.
Suddenly the doorbell rang, and Kimberly went to get it.
Sheridan heard an “ OH MY GOD!!” coming from her cousin. She was suddenly having a feeling to go to the door. She got up and when she did, she soon repeated the words of her cousin.
“OH MY GOD!”
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Post by Nicole Will on Dec 18, 2007 13:01:07 GMT -5
Chapter Thirty-Five
Luis looked around at all the engagement rings that now lay in front of him. He wanted to choose the best ring to adorn Sheridan’s finger.
“How about this one Luis?” Antonio asked, picking up a huge diamond ring with littler diamonds on each side.
“I think that it is too big. I want something simple to give to Sheridan.” Luis said while picking up a small diamond ring. It was perfect, simple, and beautiful. He couldn’t wait till he slipped this ring on her finger. If she said yes.
“Now that you found the perfect ring, are you ready to become all sappy and propose?” Antonio said with a grin. Neither of the brothers could remember ever getting along so well since, they were kids.
“I’m all ready.” He said with a huge grin.
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Luis looked out the window of Antonio’s red convertible. He kept seeing fathers out with their children, playing in the yard, while mothers looked on. The life he wanted with Sheridan.
Luis then saw that Antonio had turned into a neighborhood. The neighborhood didn’t contain the rich mansions he was sure that Sheridan’s cousin lived in. They soon pulled up to a medium sized brick house, with a white picket fence.
“This is where Sheridan is?” Luis asked stunned. She was in a normal sized house, not some mansion. Sheridan and her cousin were definitely not the average Cranes. Luis knew that Sheridan wasn’t, but he expected her cousin to be, since she was previously married to some rich man. Looks can be deceiving.
Antonio shut off the engine and looked over at Luis. Luis had this nervous look to him, a look Antonio had never seen before. That was because Antonio had never seen his brother this much in love, not even with Beth.
Luis slowly opened the car door and walked up to the door with Antonio right behind. He finally had enough courage to knock on the door. He heard someone sound like they were coming down the stairs and opened the door.
A young woman looked over to Antonio and all she said was, “Oh my God.” Luis then heard someone else coming from around the corner. His eyes fell to his blond haired, blue-eyed angel. She too said, “Oh my God.” Luis couldn’t help, but chuckle at these two women.
Sheridan tried to utter a comment to Luis, but failed miserably by just seeing him again in front of her, smiling that famous smile of his. “Lu-Lui-Luis. What are you doing here?”
Luis reached his hand out to Sheridan, willing her to take it. She put her hand in his and electricity flowed through her hand, making her realize how much she missed his touch in just one day. Luis seemed relieved that she took his hand. Sheridan smiled at him and he smiled back, realizing even more what life will be like when she is his forever.
“Antonio, can I borrow your car?” Luis asked, looking over to his brother and Kimberly Crane. They seemed to be lost in their own world. Antonio absentmindedly took the keys out of his pocket and handed them to Luis. Luis walked Sheridan to the passenger side door and helped her in. He was being such a gentleman. Luis got into the driver seat and backed out of the driver way. The two sat in the car in silence as Luis drove off into an unknown destination.
---------------------------------------------------
“Luis, where are we?” Sheridan asked as she looked around. They were no longer in Beverly Hills, but what seemed to be a beautiful garden filled with flowers.
“I thought we could come here and..no, no that’s not right.” Luis said. Sheridan sensed his nervousness.
“What’s wrong?” She asked placing her hand up to his cheek. He leaned into her touch, closing his eyes. When he reopened his eyes, he knew actually how he wanted to propose to the love of his life.
Luis gently took her hands and walked her to the beautiful pond. He turned around and looked deep within her blue eyes, drowning in them. He dropped on to one knee. Sheridan gasped at the realization of what was happening. He was proposing, the love of her life was proposing to her.
“Sheridan, I love you so much and being away from you just one night made me see how special you are and the love we have. I don’t want to lose you, ever. I want us to grow old together and make lots of babies. I want to spend the rest of my life with you as your husband.” He took out the blue velvet box and opened it exposing the ring. “Will you marry me?”
Sheridan had tears flowing down her eyes. She had never heard anything so romantic in her life. “Yes.” She squeaked as Luis began slipping on the ring. She held her hand up and looked at the ring that now adorned her finger. She looked lovingly at her fiancée. Her fiancée. She had to keep repeating that making sure it was real. She walked towards him and they kissed, exposing their need, love, and how much they missed each other.
After they pulled away for some air, Sheridan said, “Why don’t we go back to my cousin’s house and tell Kim and Antonio the good news.” Luis nodded and the two began walking back to the car, fingers entwined.
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Sheridan opened the door to Kim’s house and walked inside holding on to Luis’ hand. They heard people talking in the living room, so they walked that way. Inside the living room was Antonio playing with little Alex. Kim was on the floor with them staring at both so lovingly.
“Is that kid Antonio’s?” Luis whispered in Sheridan’s ear. Sheridan looked over at Luis and nodded.
Kimberly finally noticed Luis and Sheridan standing there, holding hands. She noticed the ring that now adorned her cousin’s finger. Kimberly stood up and Antonio looked over at his brother smiling. Finally, everything was going well for the Lopez-Fitzgeralds and the Cranes.
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Antonio had called his family, who was still in town, to come over to an address that neither Pilar nor Martin had heard of. When they arrived with Theresa, Miguel, and Paloma, they were surprised to know that Antonio was a father, but they welcomed little Alex with open arms. They were even more thrilled to learn that they would soon be having Sheridan as a member of the family.
Love and happiness had finally found their way with Luis and Sheridan, and Antonio and Kimberly.
Epilogue
Sheridan stood out on the balcony of her two-bedroom Manhattan apartment with Luis. Who ever thought that New York would bring her such joy? Her life had changed so much in the last few months. She became engaged to the most loving man and moved in with him on New York.
Two strong arms wrapped around her waist. She didn’t have to turn around to see who it was. She felt his presence even before she turned around. Leaning into his warm embrace, Sheridan whispered the words they constantly spoke to each other.
“I love you.”
“I love you too, babe. In fact, I was thinking about showing you how much I love you.”
Sheridan’s eyes glistened up and her bright blue eyes reflected the love she had for him, and only him. Life couldn’t be more perfect. As Sheridan was leaning in for his kiss, Luis pulled away and had a smirk on his face.
“I didn’t say right this second. Jeez Sher, is that ALL you think about?” he said with his playful tone. Sheridan turned around fully and gave him the shocked look. “Me? I think you are the one that wakes me up every night just to make love with me.” Luis grinned. “Yeah, but you LOVE it.”
Sheridan smacked him one across the chest and then leaned back into his embrace. She could get use to this. Being with the man, she loved, being with each other.
Neither could wait for their wedding to come. The first second they had free after spending the day with Kim and Antonio, they began the wedding plans. Luis couldn’t believe his brother had a son, but the second he played with his “new” nephew, the more he loved him. Antonio was lucky to be going down that path.
Luis leaned down and breathed in the scent of Sheridan’s hair. It was the sweetest smell he had ever smelt. “So how may children should we have?” Luis asked, turning Sheridan around to look at her.
“I don’t know. I always liked four.” She grinned. “Why do you ask?” Sure, they had discussed marriage plans, but nothing about children.
“I was thinking about how much practice we are going to need.” He said as he whipped Sheridan up over his shoulder, carrying her in the bedroom. Her giggles heard throughout their apartment.
Their lives were now perfect and nothing could ever change the love they felt for each other.
The End!!!!
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