Chapter 1

Sheridan approached the door of the cottage and turned the handle. She stepped inside quietly and immediately she could smell the mint of musk. She hadn’t been to her summer cottage in years, but she had many fond memories here. She looked around the room and everything appeared to be pretty much the same. The furniture was rather dull in appearance, due to its lack of use. Still the room had a sense of warmth and welcoming to it that beckoned her. Two picture frames hang on the wall in the main room and she remembered the day when they had first been hung.

*Flashback*

“Sheridan I think the room looks great, but there is something missing.” Luis told her as he smiled at her fondly.
“What do you mean? I rather like it.”
“I think we should find some paintings or pictures to hang on the right wall over there” Luis said pointing to the wall behind the T.V. and radiator.
“Well” Sheridan said coming up behind Luis and wrapping her arms tightly around his waist. “We could always go to an art gallery and buy some nice paintings or perhaps we could just hang up some pictures of us.”

Luis sighed contently and was still was delighted at the fact that Sheridan was his wife. After all they had been through, with the imposter Sheridan’s father and brother had hired and mixed signals between Hank and Beth, he thought they would never admit to each other the true feelings they harboured within. Luis often fantasized about Sheridan and what it would be like to just hold her and kiss her passionately, without anyone around to judge or criticism their union. And finally, he was married to Sheridan and they had bought a house. Their house - which they would share together and someday raise their childen here. He loved the sound of the word - together.

“Luis” Sheridan said breaking Luis’ happy thoughts. “Where were you just now?” She whispered softly in his ear.
“I was thinking about you and how we are finally content.” Sheridan turned to face him and kissed him softly on the lips.
“I love you Luis and I think we should put a picture of us on this wall. To remind each other how much we mean to one another.”
“Sounds like a good idea to me…” Luis said before pulling Sheridan in for a longer kiss.
“How about we concentrate on us for now and decide on what to hang on this wall…”
Luis kissed Sheridan’s neck and lost his speech and he concentrated on pleasing his wife. And from the look on her face he was doing a pretty good job of that.
“Hmm… sounds like a plan, Luis.” Sheridan said softly.

*End of Flashback*

Sheridan starred down at her golden wedding band and tears began to trickle down her cheeks. If only it hadn’t ended this way, she thought to herself. She sat down on the leather couch and looked around the room. All the other rooms were vacant, except for the living room. Sheridan wiped away a few tears with her right hand and starred at the briefcase she had placed on the wooden coffee table. She reached for the yellow manilla envelope and her hands trembled. She took a deep breath and regained her self-control. Sheridan knew what she had to do. The hardest part of all was knowing that after all they had been through, it had to end this way.

She closed her eyes for a moment and then opened them slowly as if to reassure herself that this wasn’t a dream. It was real and she wasn’t going to wake up from a horrible nightmare, sweating and gripping the white linen sheets. With one last tear that trickled down her cheek, she bit her lip and picked up the envelope. It was light in her hands and she looked at the tear where she originally ripped it open. She pulled the flap back and pulled the papers out of the envelope slowly.

She focused intensely on the words that appeared on the front page of the documents.

Chapter 2

Luis was sitting in his apartment all alone and starring at the picture he held in his hand. The picture frame was heavy and embroided with gold on the edges. He longed to have her beside him again, but they were too far apart to ever come back to one another. Too much had happened and too much had changed. The couple that he saw in the picture reflected a time of joy and love that transcended all else. If only things were different. He needed to stop dwelling in the past, but the wounds left from those painful memories where to deep and he needed to heal. He gazed at the picture for a while longer, which made him forgot his troubles for that one moment and remember what they once shared.

*Flashback*

It had been a beautiful autumn day in Harmony. The branches were full of brightly colored leaves. Sheridan and Luis walked hand in hand through the park basking in the beauty of this little town at this time of year. The children played happily and Sheridan watched with a look of wonder. Luis knew what she was thinking and before he could tell her she interrupted him with her thoughts out loud.

“Luis let’s have a child. I know we have only been married for two months, but I think having a child would bring us even closer than we already are, if that’s possible.”
Luis’ expression remained neutral, he wanted Sheridan to think he was outraged. “Luis please say something, I am sorry if you don’t…”
“Shh. Sheridan I was joking of course I feel the same way. Nothing would make me happier.”

Sheridan’s eyes sparkled and Luis took her hand in his and said.
“You know I think that having a little run around the house, would fill our lives with more joy than I ever thought possible.”
Sheridan wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him in closer for a kiss.

*End of Flashback*

A single tear hit the picture frame. He couldn’t bear to be apart from her, but he knew that too much had changed for them to even try to work it out. He had replayed the scenes in his mind over and over, until he decided the best thing to do was to file for divorce. They needed to move on, without one another. As hard as it was for Luis to sign those papers, he knew Sheridan would be better off without him in her life. Suddenly, he threw the picture frame with all his might across the room and it hit the wall with a fierce bang. It shattered to the floor in a thousand pieces fully. The only reminder left from the clutter was the picture of a once happy couple, which remained whole.

Luis needed a distraction, something to ease his pain. He spotted the CD player out of the corner of his eye and walked toward it. He turned the knob and the music began to filter through the room.

“Did you think my life would end that day.
That you walked, when you broke my heart.
Did you think I couldn’t make it through,
Ohh without you. Did you think you’d stop
My world with goodbye, oh no.
Did you think I’d crumble inside”

“Not me, I’m still breathing.
And this heart of mine is still beating.
I - I am not feeling. Any pain, no baby
Not me - I am still breathing. This old
Heart of mine is still beating. The tears
I cried have dried you have gone and I’ve
Survived I am still breathing.”

Luis listened attentively to the words and he did not feel the same way. He couldn’t survive. Each day without her was harder than the last and the hardest part was not being able to see her - ever again.

More painful memories flooded Luis’ mind as he recalled the day when everything changed.

Chapter 3

It has all started six months ago on that dreadful day in June. In Luis’ eyes his marriage was fine, little did he know the secret Sheridan harboured deep inside. He remembers the day’s events perfectly as if it were yesterday. The morning started of the same as every other morning. They lay peacefully in each other’s arms basking in the loving marriage they had. Luis was the first to awaken and he watched as Sheridan lay there so peacefully, little did he know what the rest of the day had in store for him, a day that would drastically shatter his world forever.

Sheridan began to stir and her eyes fluttered open.
“Hey sleephead I was beginning to think you’d never wake up.” Luis said playfully.
“Mmm I am still tired.” Sheridan said still groggy.
“How about if I go start breakfast and then we can have breakfast in bed together.”
“That sounds wonderful” Sheridan yawned.
Luis couldn’t help but smile and then he strolled into the kitchen to get breakfast started.
After they had finished breakfast in bed together, it was time for Luis to head of to the police station. He had recently been promoted to detective and was constantly working long hours. Sheridan was often displeased by this fact, but she had learned to deal with his job. After all she loved Luis and all that mattered was the time they spent together. As Luis finished putting on his uniform, Sheridan watched as he buttoned his shirt. Life couldn’t get any better for the Lopez-Fitzgeralds and it seemed like things were finally going their way.

Luis turned around to find an aroused Sheridan starring at him dreamingly.
“Sheridan whatever you are thinking will have to wait until tonight.”
Sheridan did her best to imitate a puppy dog face. Luis pulled Sheridan into him and chuckled.
“I will be back tonight and then I can spend all my time focusing on you - and only you.” Luis said seriously.
“Ok buster, but I am holding you to that promise”
Luis pulled Sheridan in for a kiss and wrapped his arms tightly around her waist. Then he abruptly pulled away.
“Hey no fair, you can’t just start something and not expect to finish it officer. You have to do your job thoroughly officer Lopez-Fitzgerald.” Sheridan said seductively.
“I’d love to Mrs. Fitzgerald but I am afraid that I have to get to work, but I will gladly finish my examination of you - Ms. Crane tonight.”
Sheridan giggled and then kissed her husband goodbye.

Later that night*

Luis drove home and it was raining pretty hard. The rain came down heavily and the roads had become extremely slippery. He swerved and almost collided into another vehicle. Obviously he was going to have to slow down and wait until the rain let up. Perhaps if he had arrived home sooner that night, he would have never had his heart shattered into a million pieces.

The minutes passed quickly and soon Luis became aware he was going to be home anytime soon. Finally, the rain stopped and he got into his vehicle ready to spend the night with his beautiful wife. He decided he would stop of at the flower shop to pick up some beautiful long stem roses for Sheridan. He would make sure to get her red roses, because they were her favourite. He came to a stop in front of Harmony’s Flower Shop. He parked the car and stepped outside. The shop was almost closing so he had just made it in the nick of time.

He pulled open the front door and the little chimes rang which signaled to Frank that a customer had arrived. Frank was the local flower shop owner. He had lived in Harmony for years and everyone knew him well.

“Hey Frank, how are you?” Luis asked.
“Hello Luis, I am fine. How is that lovely wife of yours Luis?” Frank asked politely.
“She’s great. I just stopped by to pick up some roses so I could surprise her.”
“So will it be the usual Luis. Twelve red long stemmed roses?”
“Yes and I would like the card to read “To Sheridan: Nothing can ever tear us apart”
“Okay Luis, I will just get the boutique and card ready for you. It will only take a minute.”

As Frank hurried off to prepare the rose bouquet and card, Luis was thinking about how tonight would turn out to be. This evening would be magical as was every night. He couldn’t wait to get home to Sheridan, so they could make love and spend the night in each other’s arms.

“Ok Luis, all done. Here you go.” Frank said handing the beautifully arranged bouquet of flowers to Luis. The card was safely tucked in between the roses and from Luis’ view he could read the card. It was inscribed in black ink.
After paying for the bouquet, he headed toward his car. He got in and gently placed the flowers in the passenger seat. Wait till Sheridan sees her surprise, Luis thought. Little did he know that the events that were about to unfold would not strengthen his marriage, it would destroy it.

Chapter 4

Sheridan reminisced while drinking some wine. She looked carefully at the glass that she so dearly held in her hand. If she had not been drinking that night, would things have been different now, she thought. Of course they would, but no one made her drink that night. She took another zip of the white wine and closed her eyes to savor the taste. She then swallowed it and placed the glass down on the coffee table. Her mind was reeling with thoughts of the dreadful night. The events that had transpired that day were so damaging that they shattered her once happy marriage.

She replayed the events over in her mind, time and again. Something just didn’t sit right with what happened. Though she had confronted Luis and tried to talk to him, he just wouldn’t listen and how could she blame him. She would have done the same if the roles were reversed. There was a time in her life when she thought that Luis would never be her husband. Through all the hardships and stumbling blocks, it seemed as though love did prevail. However, short lived there marriage was it was so magical and inspiring. There love was like a fairytale, but in this case they didn’t quite live happily ever after. When she had told her nephew Ethan about her true feelings for Luis three years ago, she had also mentioned that she was afraid Luis’ would not share the same feelings. She clearly remembers Ethan’s simple, yet subtle response. “Don’t say never” Three simple words that made Sheridan really think that perhaps there was a chance he shared the same sentiments as she did. Despite the obvious attraction, Sheridan was afraid that the chemistry alone would not equal a loving bond. But she was wrong, the more time she spent with Luis, the more she realized how much she needed him and just what true love was really like. Luis had been so romantic and always swept her off her feet.

These painful recollections made Sheridan long for what she once held so dear. Perhaps they could still be a chance that he would take her back, or was it too late. A tear trickled down Sheridan’s cheek and she quickly wiped it away, almost as if she felt she had no right to do so. It was her fault Luis had filed for a divorce and there was nothing she could do to change her past mistakes. In her heart the events that occurred that night seemed blurred and what really happened still remained a puzzling mystery to her.

She started to drift to sleep and as she closed her eyes flashbacks of the night haunted her all night.
“Luis please let me explain. It’s not what it looks like..” Sheridan said trembling. She had began to cry and Luis was furious.
“What does it look like then? How could you Sheridan? How could you do this to us?” Luis asked angrily.
“I can’t deal with us. I have to leave.” Luis said as he headed towards the door.
“Please Luis….Please don’t leave me…Just let me explain..” Sheridan cried as he reached the door.
“I love you” Sheridan said barely above a whisper. She was on the floor practically begging for Luis to come back and let her explain.
“I love you too, but its clear you didn’t love me as much as I love you.” Luis said solemnly with a rather neutral expression on his face.
“Luis…please…” Sheridan begged. Her hands were shaking and she was trying to stop herself from crying so she could talk to Luis.
“Goodbye Sheridan” Luis said sadly as he looked one last time at his wife and walked out of her life. That wasn’t the last time she would see Luis, but it remained the last time they would ever be together in their house.

Sheridan awoke suddenly and she was trembling violently. The events were so fresh in her mind as if it were yesterday.
*Goodbye Sheridan*
were Luis’ final words to her that night. They plagued her until she became so saddened by the events that she often contemplated suicide. Without Luis would reason did she have to live. There was no reason to go on without him by her side. She loved him too much to be without him.

She decided she would listen to some music so it could soothe her back to sleep. Perhaps if she listened to some music she wouldn’t feel so miserable. She turned the radio on and the soft melody drifted through the room and Sheridan closed her eyes and listened to the words. Hoping the music would put her to sleep.

Do you know
How it feels
Lying here without you baby
You could never understand, what’s happening to me
So alone
Nothing’s real
I just dream about you baby
And forever wonder why you had
To break free

(Chorus)
Even though you’re not my lover
Even though you’re not my friend
I would give my all
To have you here
Just to hold you once again

Sheridan began to cry and the words in the song made her reflect on how much she needed Luis. She needed just to hold him once again. She would give anything just to have him hold her tightly in her arms and profess his love for her.

It’s so hard
To believe
I don’t have you right beside me
As I long to touch you
But you’re out of my reach
And my heart doesn’t feel
It’s so very cold inside me
Just a shadow of someone that I used to be

Repeat Chorus

Bridge: You were the only one (only one)
That I allowed inside my heart
Now I’m just holding on
To something so far gone
Where did I go wrong

Repeat Chorus
Just to hold you once again

Once the song had ended, Sheridan was fast asleep and in her hand she clutched the photo of her and Luis tightly. The photo represented a time when there marriage was solid and no one would have guessed these two lovebirds could ever be torn apart.

Chapter 5

As Luis recalled that night seemed like a time when he was desperate to see his beautiful wife. He had been working late hours for weeks since his promotion. Luis knew that even though Sheridan didn’t discuss the issue with him, she was bothered by the late hours and how he was never around. He had asked the police chief, and his good buddy Sam Bennett, if he could take the night off to be with his wife, so he could surprise her. If he had been working late that night, he never would have walked into his house and seen that horrible display before him. He wondered if Sheridan would have ever told him the truth about that night? Would it matter, he would probably be to anger to forgive her even then.

*Flashback*

After he had drove away from Franks’ flower shop he headed straight home to greet his wife. That night all he had on his mind was that he would surprise Sheridan with his presence and flowers. She would kiss him and they would eventually make their way into the bedroom to continue what they started in the living room. The nights of passions they shared were so intense, Luis often quivered just at the thought Sheridan being in his arms once again.

After what seemed like hours, he finally pulled into the driveway. He parked the car and then took the keys out of the ignition. He sat for a moment pondering how lucky he was to be married to someone he loved so much and who expressed the same amount of affection in return. After all the obstacles they had been through to get to this blissful time in their lives, Luis was certain nothing could ever tear them apart. However, as he would learn in the moments to come you should never say never. He grabbed the bouquet of flowers from the passenger’s seat and stepped out of his car. He locked the doors with his automatic locker and headed toward the front door.

Luis began to recall the moment they purchased this lovely house. Sheridan had fallen in love with it the moment she laid her eyes on it. Luis had chosen this house, because he knew it was perfect place for them to spend the rest of their lives. On the outside, there was a banister with three steps leading to the door. The house had a Victorian style roof and it looked so antique on the outside. Once you stepped inside the house had beautiful hardwood and antique banisters on all the stairwells. They both knew they had to make an offer before any other couple could get their hands on this house. Two weeks later, they were moving in to this house and ready to start their new lives together.

Luis approached the steps and took a deep breath. He couldn’t wait to see the look on Sheridan’s face, when he walked through the door. He reached the door and took out his key from his pants pocket. He decided that since it was such a beautiful June day, Sheridan could watch the sunrise with him the next morning. After putting the key in the lock and turning it, the door unlocked. He turned the doorknob and stepped inside. The lights were on in the living room, but Sheridan was not around. He called out her name “Sheridan” but there was no answer. He figured since it was already 10 pm, she could have fallen asleep. He took of his shoes and headed quietly upstairs.

Once he reached the top of the stairs, he noticed the bedroom door was slightly ajar. He crept quietly to his bedroom door. Then he opened the door and he could hear the sound of breathing. Sheridan must have fallen asleep, he thought. He decided to turn on the lights so he could wake Sheridan up and surprise her. When he flicked the switch he gasped.

“No it couldn’t be.” Luis said.
Lying next to Sheridan with his hand draped across her chest, was Luis’ best friend Hank Bennett. They were both naked and all that was covering them both, were the white silk sheets.
Suddenly, Sheridan awoke abruptly and looked over at Luis’ who’s face had turned as white as a ghost.
“Sheridan how could you do this to me.” he yelled.
“Luis this is not what it looks like, please let me explain.” Sheridan said panicking.
“I can’t handle this.” With that he stormed out of the room and ran down the stairs.
Sheridan grabbed her robe and quickly followed, trying to stop Luis from leaving without explaining exactly what had happened. Which left Hank Bennett grinning from ear to ear. The only thing covering him was the sheets from the waist down.

Chapter 6

Sheridan awoke abruptly from another one of her vivid flashbacks of the night she lost Luis’ trust and perhaps his love. She wanted so desperately to turn back the hands of time and erase that night from her mind. She still hadn’t pieced together everything that had happened that night. She had asked Hank what exactly occurred and he said boldly that they had slept together. However, Sheridan couldn’t bring herself to even imagine she would kiss Hank let alone sleep with him. She loved Luis with all her heart and Hank was merely a friend.

“Maybe if I try to remember that night instead of trying to block it out, I can piece together, what really happened.”

*Flashback*

After Luis had left for work that beautiful summer day in June, Sheridan had decided to head over to her to the park to get some fresh air. She never expected nor wanted to run into Hank. Sheridan sat quietly on a park bench admiring the beautiful scenery. The water in the duck filled pond seemed to sparkle, as the sun reflected of the water. Harmony had a beauty that paled in comparison to other towns. While she sat she thought about how much she missed Luis. He was always working since he had been promoted to detective. It was starting to put a strain on their marriage. He was hardly around and when he was it felt like the moments passed to quickly.

Sheridan felt neglected and though she hardly expressed these feelings to Luis, she felt that someone he knew. They seemed to know one another very well. Luis had told her that soon enough when things settled down at the police station he would take some much needed time off and whisk her away on a second honeymoon. Sheridan longed for that day, but as the weeks passed, it appeared clear to her that his workload was just as occupying as ever.

Suddenly, out of the blue Hank Bennett spotted Sheridan sitting on a park bench all by herself. A beautiful woman like that shouldn’t be rotting away with Luis, she should be with me, he thought. He walked closer toward Sheridan, but still kept his distance. He watched her closely admiring her beauty from afar. Sheridan turned her head slightly and noticed Hank in the distance waving. She smiled at him, but wished he weren’t here. The last person she wouldn’t to see was Hank. She needed to be alone and think about what to do about her marriage.

“Hey Sheridan. What are you doing all alone at the park?” Hank asked.
“I just wanted to take advantage of this beautiful summer day and go for a walk in the park.” Sheridan said pretending to be cheerful.
“Well do you mind if I join you?” Hank asked smiling at her.
“Sure you can.”
“Listen Sheridan I have been meaning to call you, but I have been off on business.” Hank said, his expression turning serious.
“What about Hank? Is something wrong?” Sheridan said with genuine sympathy.
“No, Sheridan everything’s fine. I just wanted to get together and have lunch. Maybe catch up on what’s been going on here in Harmony, while I was gone.”
“Oh, I see.” Sheridan said.
“I know this is last minute and all, but I was wondering if you would care to join me for dinner tonight.”
“I can’t Hank…” Hank silenced her by placing his index finger on her lips.
“I won’t take no for an answer Sheridan. Ever since Luis got promoted you have been lonely and you need some company, someone to cheer you up.”
“I appreciate the offer Hank, but really I would rather just be alone right now.”
“Come on Sheridan you have to eat. How about I pick up around 7 and we can go to the seascape. It’ll be my treat, come on Sheridan what do you say?” Hank asked hopefully.
“Oh alright.” Sheridan said giving in to Hank’s request.
“Great, I’ll pick you at 7. Well I’d better get going.” Hank said excitedly. He quickly kissed Sheridan on the cheek and smiled.
Then he got up and walked away from Sheridan. A cool breeze began to slice through the air and Sheridan began to quiver. It’s getting cold, I’d better get going.”
Sheridan headed back to her car, not knowing that the events that night would literally destroy her marriage rather than salvage it.

*End of Flashback*

Sheridan looked over the divorce papers she had signed earlier, and bit her lip. We are officially divorced, she said out loud.
“Oh Luis, why won’t you let me explain what happened.” Sheridan began to sob as she clasped her head in her hands.
“If only…I hadn’t…” Sheridan muffled between sobs.

Suddenly, Sheridan started to feel faint. She fell back and landed on the couch. Her mind was reeling as she so desperately tried to recall what happened.
“I must have had too much to drink.”

Sheridan sat down and rested until she regained her strength. I can’t stay in this house, Sheridan though to herself. There are too many memories here. Everything reminds me of Luis. Sheridan stood up and gathered her belongings. She picked up her coat and put it on.
“I have to see him. I have to tell him what really happened.” Sheridan said out loud. She picked up the manilla envelope containing the divorce papers and starred at it for a moment.
“I am not going to lose you Luis.” She said as she threw the envelope in the fireplace.

She had lit a fire earlier and she watched the fire consume the paper almost instantly. The glowing embers sparkled and the paper was forgotten. All that was left of the only document official stating there divorce was merely a pile of ashes scattered in the fireplace.

“I am not giving up on our marriage, Luis” she said then she thought back to Ethan’s advice so long ago, “Don’t say never.” She headed toward the door and opened it. She stepped out into the cold night air and closed the door behind her.

Chapter 7

Luis couldn’t believe what he had just witnessed, his wife in bed with another man and not just any man, but his best friend Hank. He never imagined that Sheridan could ever destroy their marriage, by having an affair. Luis would admit there had been some difficulties in their marriage lately, but it was nothing the two of them couldn’t overcome together. He rushed toward the door as quickly as he could.

He couldn’t take this, he wasn’t ready to speak to her. She had betrayed him and he couldn’t face her and have to look in those beautiful blue eyes and let her see all the anger he was harboring within. If he stayed he feared he would regret it. He no longer knew the woman he had once married. So many unanswered questions reeled in his head, but he couldn’t do it now. He was in to much pain, it felt as though Sheridan had taken a knife and stabbed him repeatedly in the chest. The pain was more than he could bear and what was worse was the anger that bawled inside him

He finally reached the door and turned the knob. He could hear her coming closer towards him as she raced down the stairs.

“Luis please don’t go” He hesitated for a moment. He couldn’t deny her request or could he. He was torn between the love he had for this woman and the anger he felt now. He froze and was unable to move. He couldn’t look at her. It would just remind him of her betrayal.

“Luis please let me explain. It’s not what it looks like..” Sheridan said trembling. She had began to cry and Luis was furious.
“What does it look like then? How could you Sheridan? How could you do this to us?” Luis asked angrily.
“I can’t deal with us. I have to leave.” Luis said as he headed towards the door.
“Please Luis….Please don’t leave me…Just let me explain..” Sheridan cried as he reached the door.
“I love you” Sheridan said barely above a whisper. She was on the floor practically begging for Luis to come back and let her explain.
“I love you too, but its clear you didn’t love me as much as I love you.” Luis said solemnly with a rather neutral expression on his face.
“Luis…please…” Sheridan begged. Her hands were shaking and she was trying to stop herself from crying so she could talk to Luis.
“Goodbye Sheridan” Luis said sadly as he looked one last time at his wife and walked out of her life.

He closed the door behind him and took a deep breath. He began to fight back the tears that formed in his eyes. Little tears trickled down each cheek. What was he going to do? His wife had slept with his best friend and betrayed him, lied to him. He reached his car and opened the door. He stepped inside and slammed the door shut. He felt a fit or rage come over him, he could kill Hank right now. How could he sleep with his wife? But what hurt more was Sheridan’s unfaithfulness.

He placed the key in the ignition and started the car. He placed his hands tightly around the steering wheel. Trying to control himself and all the anger that was eating at him. He drove off cruising down the street as fast as he could. Sheridan watched as he sped off leaving skid marks on the road. She cried even harder because she knew she had ruined the best thing that had ever happened to her - her marriage with Luis.

Luis was driving fast and was unaware that he was being a hazard to other pedestrians and drivers on the road and sidewalks. But he was just too angry right now. As a police officer, he knew he was responsible for the safety of others and he wasn’t doing his job. He had broken countless laws in the past twenty minutes, and abusing his power as an officer of the law.

He didn’t know where to drive to he couldn’t go back home. She was there and the man she had slept with. Ugh he couldn’t bring himself to stop picturing them together in his bed - with HIS wife. Finally, he decided to stop of at Grace’s bed and breakfast and spend the night there. Where he could come down and deal with this affair in the morning. But one thing he knew for sure, his marriage was over and there was nothing Sheridan could say or do to change that.

Luis saw the flashing neon sign, “Harmony Suites” and he headed into the motel parking area. He quickly parked his car in the nearest convenient spot and headed into the motel lobby. There he spotted the motel manager checking out a tourist most likely. After the lady had taken her baggage and headed out, Luis approached the counter. “I’d like a room please for the night.” Luis said in angered tone of voice.
“Would you like a room on one of the upper leaves or on the ground floor.” The manager asked politely.

“I don’t care” Luis hissed. “Just get me a room anywhere.”
“Yes sir.” The man answered nervously, afraid that Luis would explode with rage at any moment.
“Right away sir.” He headed into the back to grab a key from one of the slots.
“Here you are sir, room 202. Just head right up the stairs and to your left. Is there anything else you need sir?”
“No thanks” Luis muffled trying to control himself as he headed towards the stairs.

When he finally reached his room, he placed the key into the doorknob and violently turned it open. Once he was inside he threw his key on the table and looked around the room. How was he going to sleep tonight after what he witnessed. He sat on the king size bed and placed himself in a comfortable position. Perhaps a cold drink could ease his pain. He headed to the mini bar and opened the refrigerator. Luis grabbed an ice cold beer and twisted the cap off. He placed his lips on the edge of the bottle and then took several huge gulps. The cold taste of beer trickled down his throat as he swallowed more. Luis drank so much at once, that beer dripped down his shirt.

Three beers later, he had fallen asleep on the king size bed. His hair was ruffled and his clothes had been scattered on the floor. But that night the alcohol didn’t ease his pain, because he had haunting nightmares of his wife Sheridan making love to his friend Hank. Several times that night he awoke from his thoughts of his former best friend and wife together in his bed. He would arise covered in sweat and gripping the sheets closely to his chest, like a child having a vivid recollection of something so frightening you had to open your eyes not to see it. Luis’ world was turned upside down that night and the images burned in his mind and remained there imprinted for the months to follow.

Chapter 8

Sheridan drove rather slowly down the streets of Harmony, because even though she needed to see Luis, she was certain he didn’t want to see her. If only she could put together the pieces of that night together. Too much of it was blurred and Hank wasn’t creditable. He swore they had shared a night of passion, but in her heart she knew she could never have slept with Hank no matter how lonely she felt. Despite the obstacles Luis and Sheridan had faced together, it just made their marriage stronger, and she prayed that this challenge could be overcome as well.

*Flashback*

Sheridan had just finished getting ready when the doorbell rang. It must be Hank she said. She wasn’t at all excited about her get together with Hank. She wished it were Luis that she was going out to dinner with. But Luis was busy working hard at the Police Station. Despite what they both though, his new promotion had put a strain on the marriage and things were becoming routine. They no longer had breakfast in bed together or walks on the beach and it seemed they were drifting apart.

She ran down the stairs and headed towards the front door. She checked through the peephole and saw Hank standing on the other side of the door grinning from ear to ear. Sheridan forced a smile and then grabbed her purse. She didn’t feel like going out when she felt like this, but perhaps a change of pace would do her good. Hank waited until she was outside to make his move. He placed his hand at the small of her back and guided her to his car. Sheridan felt uncomfortable and moved slowly away from him.

*End of Flashback*

As Sheridan approached Luis’ apartment building she prayed he would just listen to her. They needed to communicate and clear the air, once and for all. Sheridan found a parking space and parked the car. She turned the engine of and removed the keys. Sheridan took a deep breath and prepared herself for the moments that lay ahead. This wasn’t going to be easy, facing Luis when he harbored such animosity towards her. But she had to talk to him and make him realize that she had never meant to hurt Luis.

As she approached the elevators she tried to hold back her tears. How did this mess get started? If she hadn’t gone out to dinner with Hank this…She stopped herself at the point. She couldn’t keep doing this. She knew she couldn’t change the past, she could only rectify the present and hopefully still have a future with Luis. The elevator doors opened and Sheridan stepped inside. She pressed the button marked “12” and awaited for the doors to close.

When she reached the twelfth floor she walked slowly to Luis’ door. After what seemed like hours she had approached her objective. She knocked softly on the door and anticipated that Luis would be on the other side of the door. He flung the door opened and stood in shock to see Sheridan almost in tears in front of him.

“What are you doing here Sheridan?” he asked trying to keep his voice from escalating louder.
“We need to talk…Luis” she said shaking. “I needed to see you, to explain what happened.” Sheridan’s eyes began to water and she couldn’t bear to look Luis directly in the face.
“I don’t need an explanation so please go Sheridan. Don’t make this harder than it already is” he said calmly despite what he felt inside.

Sheridan raised her head and looked Luis’ directly in the eyes. She was crying and the tears cascaded down her face. She didn’t bother to wipe away her tears, she merely spoke in a hushed voice.

“Luis, please all I ask is that you listen to me and when I am done, if you still feel nothing more than hostility and anger towards me I will walk away and you will never have to see me again.” She said with a hint of regret in her voice.

“All right Sheridan, but I don’t see how this…” before Luis could say another word, Sheridan collapsed in his arms. Her head fell back and Luis struggled to keep her steady. He gently lay her on the floor of his hallway and immediately checked for a pulse. He was relieved when he discovered she had a pulse - it was weak, but none the less she was alive. He began to shudder, what was happening to Sheridan.

“Sheridan please…talk to me…can you..hear…me” Luis said in a muffled voice, trying to fight back the tears. He couldn’t bare to see Sheridan like this, he still cared for her deeply despite her affair with Hank.
He gently picked up her hand and squeezed it. “Sheridan…you’re going to be okay.” He rushed to the phone in his living room and dialed 911.
Luis anxiously awaited for someone to pick up on the other end of the phone if Sheridan didn’t receive some medical attention soon, her condition might worsen. Luis tried to push those negative thoughts out of his mind. He had to concentrate on keeping Sheridan alive.

“Hello, 911 emergency, what is the problem?” the woman on the other end said calmly.” “Yes, I need an ambulance right away at 134 Mills Rd, Apartment complex “Harmony Hills” apartment #1256.” Luis said quickly trying to say as much as he could to relay how serious Sheridan’s condition was.

“Slow down sir, what’s the problem?”
“My wife has collapsed and her pulse is weak, she needs to get to a hospital, now” Luis cried into the phone.
“Alright sir, an ambulance is on its way. The best thing you can do for your wife, is stay beside her and try….” Luis dropped the phone suddenly and rushed to Sheridan’s side. Tears trickled down Luis’ cheeks as he looked at Sheridan’s motionless body.

“I would never forgive myself, if something happened…to…you…Sher…” he said in a muffled voice.

“Please don’t leave me Sheridan, I…” Luis pulled Sheridan up and snuggled her into his chest. He wrapped his arms tightly around her waist as if she would disappear at any moment. He rocked her back and forth gently with a rather dazed expression on his face. The tears continued to flow down his cheeks and all that could be heard in his apartment was the quiet sobs and muffled words of a man holding the woman he still loved close to him and the faint sound of the phone’s dial tone beeping.

Chapter 9

When the paramedics arrived, they had great difficulty releasing Sheridan from Luis’ grip. He was insistent that he be with Sheridan in the ambulance. Luis’ desperation grew and he feared that he could lose the only woman he had ever loved. As the paramedics closed the ambulance doors, Luis sat on a bunk near Sheridan and watched as one of the paramedics hooked an IV to Sheridan and checked her vital signs.

Suddenly, Sheridan’s nose appeared to be bleeding. Small red droplets of blood emerged from her nasal area and dripped down her upper lip. One of the paramedics quickly took care of the nosebleed and cleaned Sheridan up. She would need serious medical attention once she arrived at Harmony General Hospital. One thing was for certain Sheridan’s symptoms were quite bizarre. Given the fact that Luis had stated she had no prior symptoms of such in the months that had passed.

“Sir where you aware of any symptoms your wife may have had that could have contributed to her fainting and having a nosebleed?” said the male paramedic in a serious tone.
“Not that I am aware of” Luis said trying to recall if he ever noticed anything out of the ordinary.
“Is my wife going to be alright” Luis asked desperately.
“Sir we won’t know the extent of Sheridan’s condition and how severe it is until the medical doctors have properly examined her, but until then you should rest assure that we will do everything we can to help your wife.” The female paramedic said in a calm and reassuring voice.

Luis was hopeful that Sheridan would pull through this and the paramedics words reassured him slightly.

As they approached the hospital, the ambulance drove into the emergency entrance. The paramedics burst open the doors and stepped out. Then they grabbed the stretcher Sheridan had been placed on and wheeled her out. She was immediately rushed into the hospital and taken into main ward. Dr. Eve Russell who was on call that night, attended to Sheridan personally.

“Ok Dr. Russell, we have a Caucasian female who fainted suddenly and we have no other leads as to what has brought on her present condition. Her vital signs are weak and she suffered a nosebleed on the ride over.” Dr. Walker relayed to Dr. Russell what the paramedics had written on Sheridan’s chart.

“Perhaps the patient needs a cat scan or MRI done, perhaps there was some head trauma of some sort. We need to rule out all possibilities before we can properly treat Mrs. Fitzgerald.”

Luis watched closely as Dr. Russell spoke with Dr. Walkerton regarding Sheridan’s present state. He could hear what they were saying, from behind the glass. The muffled words of the two doctors irritated him, because he desperately wanted to know what was going on. He noticed two nurses moving Sheridan away from the emergency examination room and down the hall.

Luis rushed through the doors and yelled “Where are you taking her?”
Eve rushed over and said “Luis we need you to remain strong. Sheridan is just being wheeled down stairs so we can run some tests and determine what is wrong.”
Luis couldn’t believe this was happening. “Eve is she going to be okay” Luis asked with desperation in his voice.
“We won’t know until we determine what’s wrong. As soon as I find out anything I will let you know.” And with that Eve raced down the corridor to catch an elevator.

Luis couldn’t think straight he was distraught. He needed to contact Sheridan’s family and tell them the news. He walked over to one of the payphones and inserted a quarter. He dialed the Crane residence and spoke briefly with Ivy to tell her what had happened. He was so troubled by the whole matter, that he could not even relay the proper information to Ivy regarding Sheridan. He speech was slurred and he often had to close his eyes to focus on what Ivy was asking him.

Half and hour later, most of Sheridan’s family members had arrived at the hospital. They rushed to Luis’ side to comfort him and where extremely worried about Sheridan. He told them what had happened and they just were thankful Sheridan had had Luis there to place the call to the paramedics. Or else who knows what would have happened.

After what seemed like days, Eve approached Luis and the other family members and finally shed some light on the dilemma. Luis approached Eve and quickly said. “What’s wrong? Can we see her?” hold on Luis, all your questions will be answered. We have found out why Sheridan has experienced these bizarre symptoms and I am afraid it doesn’t look good.”

Nothing could prepare Luis for what Eve was about to tell him. He had never even though that Sheridan’s condition could be so far gone.
“Eve please just tell us” Luis begged.
“I don’t know how to say this…” “We ran an MRI and I was viewing it in the oncology unit. It clearly shows a small dark mass above the nasal cavity.”
“What does that mean?” Luis asked knowing that what Eve was about to tell him was not good news.
“The dark area is a nasopharyngeal mass and there is a small growth between the superior concha and the sphenoidal sinus.” “What does that mean?” “In simpler terms Sheridan has a tumor that is inoperable. The placement of the tumor makes it difficult to operate and all types of treatment are problematical.” Eve said in a serious tone of voice.

Luis was in shock. He wasn’t prepared for this. Sheridan had a tumor in her brain and there was nothing anyone could do. His eyes became watery and he kept believing and praying he would wake up from some horrible nightmare, but when he opened his eyes he was struck with the harsh reality that this was very real. As tears trickled down his cheeks he bit his lip and fought back all the pain that was eating away at him. Sheridan didn’t deserve this and what made him feel worse was that he could do nothing to help her.

Chapter 10

Luis had fallen asleep in the waiting lounge of the Harmony hospital. He awoke abruptly and wondering if everything had had happened in the last twelve hours was merely a figment of his imagination. He rubbed his eyes with his hands and then focused intently in the room he found himself in. It wasn’t a dream, what had happened earlier was real. He had hoped so desperately that it had been all a horrible nightmare, but Dr. Russell’s expression on her face when he told him about Sheridan was very vivid in his mind. He tried to recollect, what he had done once he found out about Sheridan’s illness. He had simply stood there shocked as a sense of disbelief clouded his mind.

He recalled Dr. Russell ordering him to go home and get some rest, but he immediately dismissed the notion. He was going anywhere as long as Sheridan was in the hospital. He got up from the couch and rushed out into the corridor. He headed towards the nurse’s reception desk.

“Can I please go in and see my wife now?” he said barely above a whisper.
“Mr. Lopez-Fitzgerald, the nurse is in there right now, checking up on your wife, but as soon as she is done, you may go in to see her, but only for a little while.”
Luis nodded in response to the nurse’s request. As soon as the nurse emerged from the room, Luis walked over to Sheridan’s room and grabbed the handle. He took a deep breath and pulled the door open. Sheridan forced a smile and Luis smiled back. He edged closer to her bed and took a seat in one of the chairs. He didn’t need to say anything at that moment. Luis and Sheridan had always communicated to one another openly, but at this time nothing needed to be said. Their eyes did all the talking for them. This unspoken communication, made the room extremely quiet and someone had to break the silence.

“Luis I need you to know that I am going to fight this with all that’s in me. And I understand if you don’t want to be by my side. After what happened with Hank, I know you have stopped caring for me, and you don’t know how much I appreciate you being here right now.”

“But Sheridan…” Luis started to say, but Sheridan abruptly cut him off.
“Luis please…let me finish.” Luis grabbed Sheridan’s hand and squeezed it gently to show her he was going to let her finish.

“I want you to know I still love you and I believe with all my heart, that I didn’t sleep with Hank. The memories from the night are still vague and I can’t recall everything vividly. But right now, I am going to have to devote all my energy to beating this cancer. I can’t kid myself Luis, lots of people die from cancer each year, but I am going to make it. No matter what it takes, I will beat this. I still have a life to lead, and even though you’re not apart of it anymore, I still have lots of things I want to accomplish.”

As Sheridan spoke, tears trickled down Luis’ cheeks. One of the reasons he loved Sheridan so much was her strength. Despite her childhood and all the men that had broken her heart and used her, she always managed to fight back and defeat all odds.

“Sheridan despite what you think I don’t hate you. I still love you very deeply, but despite what I saw that night which really hurt me, we can’t dwell on that now. Nor is this the time or place to be speaking about that night. I want to be here for you, like I always will be. You need me now more than ever and just because I am hurt, doesn’t mean I can’t be here for you. The treatments you are going to have to undergo will be very detrimental to your health and the chemotherapy will make you very weak. Just know that no matter what happens I will always be here as a friend.”

“Thank you Luis” Sheridan said sobbing. “It makes me so happy that you still care. I know things will never be the same between us, but at least you have offered to be a friend during my time of need and I greatly appreciate that.”

Suddenly, a nurse walked in and instructed Luis that visiting hours were over and that he had to leave. Before Luis left he cupped Sheridan’s cheeks and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. He lingered there for a moment and then pulled away. He looked into Sheridan’s eyes and whispered softly

“I know that you’ll make it through this, just have faith in that.”

Sheridan didn’t say a word she simply nodded and watched as Luis turned around and walked out of the room. She bit her lip and knew that this was just the beginning of her battle. She still had a long way to go, the treatments would be harsh and would leave her weak and weary. As a single tear trickled down her cheek, she closed her eyes and laid her head on the pillow. Within moments, Sheridan was asleep and through the window of the door, Luis watched her sleep soundly. He headed toward the hospital doors and walked out. As he walked towards his car he realized that he could lose the woman he loved. His emotions raged, he felt such a mix of anger, guilt and sadness all at once. He opened the front door of his vehicle and stepped in. Before he turned on the car, he placed his head in his hands he cried a great deal and through his muffled cries he said

“Why God…is…..this….happening…” Before Luis could say another word, a figure emerged from the shadows and starred coldly at Luis. Luis looked up and squinted to focus on the individual. When he realized who it was all his anger returned to him and he struggled to stay calm. If he approached him, he knew he would only end up making matters worse.

“So Luis aren’t you going to get out of the car and face me like a real man?”
Luis placed the key in the ignition and fired up his car. The engine roared loudly draining out the sound of the individual’s voice.

The individual continued to badger Luis until he took his foot of the pedal and unbuckled his seat belt. Luis stepped out of his car and looked coldly at the man standing in front of him.

“How dare you come here, get out of here right now, before I make you leave.” Luis shouted angrily at the person.
“I came here to see Sheridan and I can do whatever I please.”
With that Luis edged closer toward him and raised his fist to his face making contact and punching him hard in the jaw.
“You’re going to regret doing that Luis,” the man hissed at him.

Chapter 11

“You’re going to regret doing that Luis,” the man hissed at him.
“Hank, the only thing I am going to regret was ever being your friend.”

Hank tried to punch Luis in the face, but as he swung, Luis caught his fist and grabbed a hold of him. He could smell the scent of vodka on his breath. His eyes were red and Luis knew Hank had been drinking heavily. Despite the rage he felt toward Hank, he didn’t want him dead.

“Hank go on and get out of here, you’re drunk.”
“I’m…not drunk….” He said slurring his words. “I can hold down liquor better…than you can Luis.”
“Just get out of here, or I’ll have to arrest you.”
“I am not leaving until…I see Sheridan.”
“I am afraid you can’t do that Hank she doesn’t want…” before he could say another word, Hank lunged towards Luis and tried to take Luis down. However, Luis grabbed Hank’s wrists tightly and starred at him coldly.

“I am going to have to place you under arrest Hank, for….” Hank interrupted Luis.
“For what Luis? Sleeping with your wife? Having an….affair?”
Luis tried to control himself and was about to speak, but again Hank cut him off.
“Sheridan didn’t sleep with me that night. She would never have an affair….even though you guys had….problems”

Luis thought Hank wasn’t thinking straight and dismissed the idea.
“Hank you’re drunk and you don’t know what you’re talking about. I am placing you under arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol, not following orders from a police officer and assault. You have the right to remain silent anything you say will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney, if you cannot afford one, one will be appointed to you. Do you understand these rights?

“Just listen to me Luis, Sheridan didn’t sleep with me, when she refused to sleep with me, I put her to bed. She was drunk…and….I took off my clothes and hers and….crawled into bed next to her.”

Luis was shocked and he didn’t know what to say or do, Sheridan hadn’t slept with Hank and he hadn’t even listened to her. He started to feel guilty perhaps if he had listened to her she wouldn’t have gotten so sick. He immediately brought his mind to the present and then he recalled what Hank had just said.

“I took of my clothes….crawled into bed next to her.”
“You bastard how could you do this to her?” with that Luis formed his fingers into a fist and took a swing at Hank’s face. His hand made contact and hit Hank just above the cheek bone. All that could be heard, was a loud crack as Luis made contact. Hank’s head went back and after the blow to the face, his back arched back and he fell back hitting the cold hard pavement.

Luis no longer cared about arresting Hank he needed so desperately to see Sheridan, talk to her and tell her how much he loved her. He took one last look at Hank and then turned around and started making his way to the emergency entrance of Harmony Hospital.

As he walked towards the entrance, a light drizzle of rain began to fall. Luis started thinking about all the wonderful moments they had shared. Sheridan would pull through. She had to and with Luis by her side, it would give her more strength to fight and have something to live for. He approached the doors and they automatically opened. He rushed inside and headed to the elevators.

He hit the up button and waited for the elevator to arrive. Even though it was only a few seconds, every second felt like minutes had drifted by. Time had suddenly slowed down, or so it seemed. Luis impatiently waited for the elevator to arrive. Luis heard a faint sound indicating the elevator had finally reached the main floor of the hospital. The elevator doors opened quickly and Luis stepped inside. He hit an elevator button and watched anxiously as the doors closed. He rested his hands, on the elevator bars and he sighed. Two other people were in the elevator with Luis, but it was otherwise quiet. Suddenly Luis heard a song playing through the elevator’s speakers, that reminded him of the time he and Sheridan had gone a picnic together at the beach.

*FLASHBACK* Luis had taken Sheridan to the beach and had surprised her with a picnic, that sunny day in August. The cool ocean breeze cooled them down, despite the humidity in the air. They had just finished eating and Sheridan was resting on Luis’ chest. She was fully content as was Luis and nothing could spoil the moment. However, Luis had another little surprise to spring on Sheridan and he hoped he would get the response he was seeking.

“Sheridan” Luis whispered softly in her ear.
“Yes Luis” Sheridan answered, her voice barely above a whisper.
“I still have one more surprise to give you.”
Sheridan got up and faced Luis looking into his eyes. She smiled at him and her eyes sparkled as the sun shone and highlighted the tones of her hair.

“Well Luis I don’t know what else you could do that could make this day anymore perfect that it has already been, but be my guest.” Sheridan said in a playful sarcastic tone. Luis chuckled and suddenly remembered why he loved this woman so much.

He had brought along a portable cassette player and had put in the batteries this morning, before he had left the house to pick up Sheridan. The song he had selected was already cued and all he had to do was press play when he was ready.

Luis cupped Sheridan’s face with both his hands and just starred at her for a moment. She was so beautiful and he wanted to stay like this with her forever. He kissed Sheridan softly on the lips and then pulled back. He placed his hand in his left jean pocket and pulled out a small rectangular shaped velvet box. Sheridan gasped as she starred at the box with wonder. A million thoughts raced through her head. Could it be an engagement ring? She wouldn’t have to wait much longer to find out. Luis carefully opened the box to reveal to Sheridan a beautiful two karat diamond solitaire ring. Tears began to well up in her eyes and Sheridan was so surprised. She loved Luis more than anything and inside she was screaming “YES” but he hadn’t proposed yet.

“Sheridan I wanted to ask you to marry me in a special way, because you have made me the luckiest man alive. So I looked for a song that I could sing to you to express my love for you and propose.”

A single tear rolled down her left cheek and Luis wiped it away with his thumb.

Luis pressed the play button and music blasted through the speakers. A soft melody began to play and Sheridan instantly recognized it.

Luis got ready to sing for Sheridan and before he did, he took her hands in his and smiled.

I can’t conceal it.
Don’t you see, can’t you feel it?
Sheridan let’s try it.
You love me, don’t deny it.
Say I do?

Sheridan knew exactly the response Luis was looking for. She paused for only a second and then said. “I do, I do, I do, I do, I do, I do.”

Luis laughed out loud with joy and took the ring out of the box and placed it on Sheridan’s ring finger. As he slipped it on her finger, Sheridan was trembling she was so ecstatic that her nerves were getting the best of her.

“Sheridan what’s wrong why are you shaking?”
“Oh Luis, I just thought this day would never come. It feels like a dream.”
“It’s not a dream. You’re not going to wake up.”

The music on the tape continued to play, but the newly engaged couple, were kissing passionately and hardly noticed the song that was playing. It just served as an ornament that was decorating or painting the picture before them.

* Music playing *I have a smile stretched from ear to ear. I see you walking down the road. We meet at the lights, I stare for a while the world around disappears. Just you and me on this island of hope, a breath between us could be miles. Let me surround you, my sea to your shore. Let me be the calm you seek. Oh and every time I’m close to you, there’s too much I can’t say and you just walk away. And I forget to tell you I love you. And the nights too long, and cold here without you, I grieve in my condition for I cannot find the strength to say I need you so. Oh and every time I am close to you there’s too much I can say and you just walk away. And I forget to tell you I love you, and the nights too long, and cold here without you. * End of song: I Love You: By Sarah McLachlan

*END OF FLASHBACK*

Luis stepped of the elevator and headed down the hall, towards Sheridan’s hospital room. He was anxious to see her and it felt like it had taken days to arrive to this very moment, even though only minutes had passed.

As Luis approached the hospital room, he noticed that there was a lot of commotion outside of Sheridan’s room.

“Susan, code blue, get the machine in here stat.”
“What’s going on? Sheridan” Luis screamed out frantically.
“I am sorry sir you can’t go in there.” The nurse said gesturing for Luis to stay back.
“What’s happened?” Luis yelled out.
“I am afraid your wife has gone into cardiac arrest. The doctors are trying to revive her.”

“Noooooo” Luis screamed in agony. This couldn’t be happening. He couldn’t lose her not without telling her, how much he loved her and that know he knew the truth.

Luis looked frantically at the scene unfolding before him. The doctors were hastily trying to get a pulse, but to no avail.
“Come on Sheridan fight….” Luis said on the verge of tears.
“I need you. You can’t do this to me, to us.” Tears quickly fell down his cheeks. He couldn’t fight back all the emotion that was inside of him.

“Please God, let Sheridan be alright….” He began to sob and prayed she would pull through this terrible ordeal.

To Be Continued…

Chapter 1

The doctors tried to revive Sheridan, but to no avail.
One of the nurses said "Should I pronounce."
The doctor nodded his head in silence. They had lost her, and there was nothing more they could do for her.

"Sheridan Crane, died at 10:55 pm" the nurse wrote this in Sheridan's file.

As the doctor left Sheridan's room, Luis spotted him and asked.
"Did you revive her? Please say my wife is okay." he pleaded.
"Sir, I am afraid your wife is dead. We tried everything we could, but we never got a pulse. I am sorry for your lose, Mr. Lopez-Fitzgerald."

At first Luis was stunned, but then he lost control.
He grabbed the doctor with such force and yelled "What do you mean she's dead? She can't be"

Luis let go of the doctor and raced into Sheridan's room. Her body was underneath a white sheet. He approached Sheridan's body and removed the sheet that was covering her. He looked at his wife, who lay still and lifeless. He sobbed and tears quickly trickled down his cheeks.

He grabbed one of her hands and said "I am....so...sorry" "You...can't leave...me" he muffled in between words.

He lay his head next to her and cried. He couldn't believe she was gone. And he never got a chance to tell her the truth, and how much he still loved her. A nurse abruptly intruded and asked Luis to please leave the room. He quickly got up and put his head in his hands. He continued to cry and the nurse said.

"I am so sorry for your loss."
Luis didn't answer her, he merely turned his back to her, and approached the door.
"Oh sir, before you go, I should tell you, what your wife said, before she went into cardiac arrest"

Luis listened attentively, but didn't move from his spot.
"She said, Luis, I love you."

Again Luis remained silently, but this time he cried more tears and he didn't know what he was going to do without her. He left the room and walked toward the elevators. He felt like his life had been taken also, but he was still "alive" As Luis got on the elevator, happy memories of them together, haunted him.

*Flashback*

Luis had arrived early from work that day and he wanted to surprise Sheridan. He had cooked dinner and he had bought candles, which illuminated the dining room. The flames of the candles flickered brightly, letting shadows on the wall form, whenever Luis walked into the room. He set the table up beautifully for two, and couldn't wait for her to return home, and see the expression on Sheridan's face. Suddenly, he heard the doorknob turn and he knew it was her. She opened the door and Luis rushed over to greet her.

"Hey honey, your home early from the station."
"Yes I am and I get to spend the evening with my beautiful wife."
"Umm aren't I lucky" Sheridan said seductively.
Luis pulled her into a passionate kiss, and after they pulled away, Sheridan smiled. "I have a surprise for you Sher, but you have to close your eyes."

"What are you up to honey?"
"You'll just have to wait and see."
"Can't you give me a hint?"
"No, that would spoil the surprise."
Sheridan laughed and Luis loved the sight of her, when she was happy. Her face would light up and her eyes would sparkle.

"Okay Sheridan close your eyes and I will lead you to your surprise."
"Okay Luis, lead the way."
Luis guided her through the hallway and into the living room. They turned and walked into the dining room.

"Okay you can open your eyes now."
Sheridan opened her eyes and she explaimed
"Oh Luis, its beautiful." She hugged him tightly and then kissed his lips softly.
"But when did you have the time to do this?" she asked with curiousity.
"I asked Sam, if I could take the afternoon off and I wanted to surprise you."
She punched him playfully in the arm and said.
"No wonder I love you so much."
"Would you care to sit down, dinner is almost ready."
"I'd love to, but first I want to dance."
"Okay Sheridan, let me just put a song in."

He walked over to the stereo and turned it on. He thumbed through the cd pile and found the perfect song for the occassion. He pressed play and the music drifted through the house. Luis took Sheridan by the hand and kissed it gently. Sheridan pulled him in closer and she placed her hands around his neck. They swayed to the music.

*Music Playing*

Song: When the visions around you, Bring tears to your eyes And all that surrounds you, Are secrets and lies, I'll be your strength, I'll give you hope, Keeping your faith when it's gone, The one you should call, Was standing here all along. And I will take you in my arms, And hold you right where you belong, Till the day my life is through, This I promise you, This I promise you. I've loved you forever, In lifetimes before, And I promise you never, Will you hurt anymore, I give you my word, I give you my heart, This is a battle we've won, And with this vow, Forever has now begun. Just close your eyes (Close your eyes) Each lovin' day (Each lovin' day), And know this feeling won't go away (No), Till the day my life is through, This I promise you, This I promise you. Over and over I fall (Over and over I fall), When I hear you call, Without you in my life, Baby, I just wouldn't be living at all. And I will take you in my arms (I will take you in my arms), And hold you right where you belong (Right where you belong). Till the day my life is through, This I promise you, Baby, Just close your eyes. Each lovin' day (Each lovin' day), And know this feeling won't go away (No), Every word I say is true, This I promise you. Every word I say is true, This I promise you, Ooo I promise you.
Song: This I Promise You *NSYNC***

*End of Flashback*

Luis couldn't take it anymore. He just wanted to get away and disappear. Without her, he ceased to exit and his life didn't matter anymore. How could he possibly survive without her, next to him. His mind flooded with memories of her smile and the times they shared together. If only he had listened to Sheridan that night, when he walked into to their bedroom and saw Hank and her together. He was ridden with guilt. Luis couldn't stop blaming himself for her death. And most of all he regretted not telling her how much he still loved her and that his life wasn't worth living if she wasn't with him.

Luis exited the hospital and headed towards his car, he had to tell his family as well as Sheridan's the tragic news of her death. How was he going to forgot her, if he loved her so much. His heart was shattered and he yearned for her. He would have given anything to hold her once again, even if it was only for a few minutes.

He opened the car door and sat in the driver's seat for a few minutes pondering about how different his life would be without her in it. He put his key in the ignition and started up the car. The music began to blare through the speakers as we drove away from the hospital.

*Music Playing*

Soft heavenly eyes gazed into me, Transcending space and time, And I was rendered still, There were no words for me to find at all, As I stood there beside myself, I could see you and no one else. When I saw you, When I saw you, I could not breathe, I feel so deep, When I saw you, When I saw you, I'd never be, I'd never be the same. Verse: Only once in a lifetime love rushes in, Changing you with the tide, And dawn's ribbon on light, Bursts through the dark, Wakening you inside, And I through it was all untrue, Until there all at once I knew. With no beginning and without an end, You are the one for me, It's evident, And your eyes told me so, Your eyes let me know...Noooo, never be the same.
*Song: When I Saw You, Mariah Carey***

The song struck a chord with Luis and he turned the radio off. He couldn't listen to words of love or any song he had danced with Sheridan, because he knew they would never dance again. Suddenly, there was a truck coming head on and Luis distracted by his thoughts, didn't see it coming. There was a loud sudden impact as the truck collided into Luis' car. The truck driver had tried to swerve, but he was too late. The truck driver was not injured, however Luis' car had flipped over and the truck driver feared the worst for the driver's present condition. He immediately radioed for help and told the police about the accident.

Within minutes, two police cars, along with an ambulance had arrived on the scene. The policeman approached Luis' car which was totalled. They tried to remove the man's body from the crushed vehicle. Luis' was pronounced dead on the scene and the ambulance, placed his body in a black bag. The ambulance drove away while policemen talked to the truck driver regarding the accident.

Meanwhile, in heaven, Luis and Sheridan walked hand in hand. They were destined to be together always whether living or dead, because they were soulmaters. Sheridan turned to Luis and said

"Don't Say Never"

Luis smiled and knew exactly what Sheridan was saying. That despite the fact that Sheridan had died didn't mean they would never be reunited again. And as fate would have it, they were together, in a peaceful place were people search for the other half...in heaven.

THE END