Chapter 16
"Luis," Sam hissed. "You shouldn't be here. You're too emotionally involved. If that's Ali in there." "Sam. Don't lecture me. Look. You know I have to be here. Especially if my daughter's in that hotel room," Luis spoke. Crouching down beside his superior. And friend. "What's going down?" "A woman called 9-1-1 early this morning. Said she might have some information on Ali. Told the cops to hurry. The man holding her was dangerous." "Dangerous!" "Luis," Sam said gently. With a calming hand on the younger man's arm. "Her call was traced. To this hotel. Marty talked to the manager, and he told him he had seen a little girl. One that looked very much like the picture of Ali." "Where? Where is she, Sam? Why haven't you." "We can't do that, Luis. 'Cause the woman was right. She should know," Sam said. Wiping the sweat from his brow. "Her husband is holding her and the little girl hostage. He's got a gun, Luis. And he."
"What Sam? He what?" Luis demanded. "He's used it already," Sam said. Turning away. Unable to meet Luis's eyes. "No!" Luis cried. Despair creeping into his voice. "Luis!" Sam said harshly. "Stay calm. Or I'll have no choice but to have you escorted off these premises. You hear me?" Luis clenched his jaw and nodded slowly. But Sam could tell he was only going through the motions. The man had one thing on his mind. And God help the recipient of his anger.
"He's coming out!" Marty yelled. And Sam had to physically restrain Luis from rushing forward. Playing the hero. His worst nightmare was coming true right before his very eyes. In the crazed man's arms was a child. Her blond hair wild. Her big blue eyes wide with fear. She screamed in terror when the man held his gun to her head. Luis's whole body went stiff with tension as he uttered in an anguished voice, "Oh my god, Sam. He's got Ali. The bastard's scaring her to death. I'm going to kill him," he gritted out. Pulling his gun from its holster.
"No guns! No guns!" the kidnapper screamed madly. "I'll kill her! I swear I'll kill her!" he yelled. Pressing the gun more firmly against Ali's temple. "Didn't you hear what he said?" Luis cried desperately. "She's my little girl, Sam. Don't take any chances with her life," he pleaded. "Put the guns down," Sam ordered. "He means business." The man smiled in triumph. Clutching Ali tighter. Ali sobbed softly in his grip. Luis closed his eyes. Thankful Sheridan wasn't witness to this horrific scene. "Listen up," the man shouted. "If you give me what I ask for.I'll let the kid go." "He's lying," Sam muttered. "He has no intention of letting his free ticket out of here loose." "I know that," Luis hissed. "But do you see another way out of this, Sam?" he asked. Before standing up. "We'll give you everything you ask for. Just let the little girl go."
"Daddy! Daddy!" Ali screamed. And Luis's heart fell to the pit of his stomach when the madman looked at him strangely. "Shut up, kid," he warned. "What's she saying that for? Are you." Please, AliCat, he thought. Please understand. "What kind of question is that?" Luis laughed dryly. "Of course, she's not my kid. I don't know what she's talking about. Listen," he bit out impatiently. "Are you going to take the deal or not?" The man eyed him suspiciously for several moments. Then made up his mind.
"Yeah. I want a car. And your promise, no one will try to stop me from leaving." Okay, Luis thought. "I can do that," he answered levelly. How stupid was this guy? "Here," he said. Holding out the keys to his jeep. "You can take mine. Better yet.I can drive. My buddies here are sure not to try any funny business with me in the car," he reasoned. "Just let the little girl go."
"Okay," the man agreed. His dark eyes darting back and forth. "Give me the keys." "You want the keys?" Luis asked. "Here," he shouted. Tossing them at the man. The man loosened his grip on Ali momentarily in surprise. And that was all the time she needed to squirm free. "Ali! Get down!" he yelled. Raising his gun. "What the hell." the other man swore. Pointing his gun at Luis. He had no time to finish that thought before the first bullet hit him. Square in the chest.
Chapter 17
"We need an ambulance," Luis shouted. Checking the man for a pulse. And finding a thready one. "Luis," Sam said. A hand on his shoulder. "Let us take it from here," he said. Nodding toward Ali. "Take her home," he said quietly. "Thank you, Sam," Luis said. Hugging Sam briefly. "AliCat," he whispered. Kneeling in front of her. Tipping her chin up with his index finger. Ali's tiny chin quivered, and Luis's heart constricted at the tears rolling down her pink cheeks.
"I knew you'd come, Daddy," she cried. Throwing her arms around his neck and burying her face in his neck. "Oh Daddy," she sobbed as he stroked her long blonde hair and kissed the crown of her head. He didn't want to let go of her ever again. And Sam seemed to sense that. Recruiting one of the guys to drive him and Ali back to Harmony. Home. Back to Cristian and Sheridan.
Ali clutched his shirt the entire drive home. Her blue eyes drooping in fatigue. "It's okay, baby. Close your eyes. Daddy's here," he soothed. Rubbing lazy circles on her little back. Silvano looked on sympathetically from the rear view mirror as Luis coaxed his daughter to slumber. The poor kid had been through hell in the last 24 hours. If there were any justice in this world, the awful memory would be wiped from her young mind. But somehow.somehow he didn't think she'd be that lucky. Then again.she had two completely devoted parents and a whole network of people that loved her. It'd take time. But she'd be okay.
"Thanks Man," Luis waved. As the squad car pulled out of the driveway. He tucked Ali in closer to his heart and began slowly walking toward the front door. Tears in his brown eyes when he realized the enormity of the events of the past day. If he ever had any doubts at all, he knew now. He would do ANYTHING for his daughter. His son. His wife. His entire family. And his life wouldn't be the same without a single one of them.
His mother's face crumpled, and the brave mask she had been wearing the past 24 hours was gone as she saw her sleeping granddaughter nestled in her son's embrace. "Mijo," she whispered. "Is she.?" She left the question hanging in the air. "She'll be fine. Now that she's home. Where she belongs. Mama," he said in a choked voice when she kissed his cheek. "We have our angel back," his father whispered. Tracing Ali's sweet features with a gentle hand. "Where is she?" Luis asked. Searching the living room for her familiar figure.
His father slipped an arm around his mother's waist and hugged her to him. "They're in Ali's room," he said with a smile. Thinking of the smile that would surely light up Sheridan's face at this wondrous sight. "Martin," his wife said quietly as they watched their son carry his daughter down the hall. "I think we should leave them alone. Just for now." He glanced at his son once more. Then helped her into her coat and opened the door. Leaving the little family to themselves.
Luis stood in the doorway to Ali's room and listened to his wife sing to their son in a beautiful, wistful voice. Lullabies she'd sang to Ali when she was a baby. He could hear the tears in her voice. He watched silently as she laid Cristian down gently on Ali's bed. Placing a tender kiss to his forehead. Straightening up and picking up a picture from Ali's bedside table. A picture of the four of them. Shortly after Cristian's birth. An aura of sadness surrounded her. And he wanted to do away with it. "Sheridan," he uttered softly.
"Luis. I don't know if I can do it without her," she said. Without turning around. "She's such a big part of my life. Our lives. I feel so empty inside without her," she cried. Her blue eyes seeing him-and Ali--for the first time. "Luis?" she asked in disbelief. "Tell me I haven't gone crazy. Tell me this isn't some cruel trick of the mind. That I want her back so much, I'm imagining things," she pleaded. Edging closer. And reaching a trembling hand out to touch Ali's soft golden hair.
"She's real," she gasped. "How? Where?" she asked. A million emotions playing across her beautiful face. "Not now," he answered. Cupping her jaw in the palm of his hand. Stroking her lips with his thumb. "She IS real," he smiled. "And home. Where she belongs. C'mere," he beckoned. Wrapping his free arm around his wife. Sheridan came willingly. Gazing at their daughter's beloved face and sweeping her hair back from her forehead with a loving hand. "Mommy loves you, Sweetie. So much." Happy tears spilled from her lashes when Ali blinked her blue eyes open and whispered. "Always and forever, Mommy?" "Always and forever, baby," she smiled. Closing her eyes and sighing blissfully at the feeling of holding her tiny daughter in her arms again. Always, she mouthed. Squeezing Luis's hand. She held on. Determined never to let go.
Chapter 18
"Thank you, Eve," Luis said appreciatively. "No problem," Eve said softly. Patting Luis's hand. "I'm just relieved to have such good news for you. She's fine physically. But keep her close. Nightmares can be just as scary as the real thing. It'll take her a while to recover emotionally. She's going to need you and Sheridan. Your love and support is the best medicine," she said. Stepping outside with a smile. Luis locked the door behind her and walked toward his and Sheridan's bedroom. Turning out all the lights along the way.
"Hi, Daddy," Sheridan greeted with a smile as a he walked into their bathroom and found her and Ali relaxing in the bubbles. Ali smiled sweetly at him. Snuggling deeper in Sheridan's arms. "Hi, Daddy," she said somewhat shyly. Breaking out into a full-fledged grin as he scooped up some bubbles and wiped them on her nose. Sheridan's blue eyes sparkled with happiness. And she hugged Ali tighter. Making her squeak.
"Hmm," she laughed. "A new squeeze toy." "Mommy!" Ali giggled. "I'm not a toy!" "I don't know about that, Sweetie," Sheridan teased. Squeezing her tight again. And eliciting the same reaction. "AliCat!" Luis gasped in mock surprise. "Oh Daddy," she giggled. "You're so silly." "But you love me anyway, don't you, Baby?" "Yeah," she answered. Smacking him on the lips. Sheridan took the opportunity to douse him with bubbles.
"No fair," he grinned. Wiping the bubbles off his face with the back of his hand. "Two against one. You guys double-teamed me. This is war," he said. Smirking at Sheridan as he scooped some more bubbles up in his hands and advanced on her. Ali squealed in delight. "Ali," Sheridan laughed helplessly as Luis tortured her. With her daughter's help. "You're not supposed to help him." Her hysterical laughter echoed off the bathroom's walls.
The bubble fight finally ended. Cristian woke up wailing. And Luis graciously offered to go check on him. Sheridan climbed out of the tub and wrapped a towel around herself. Grabbing the fluffiest towel off the rack for Ali. "Sweetie, where are you?" she teased when Ali's soapy little body was swallowed up by towel. She smiled at Ali's muffled giggles. The adorable grin on her face as she poked her blond head out and exclaimed, "Here I am, Mommy!" And she pushed away the ache she felt when she remembered that just hours earlier, she'd had almost no hope. Her daughter was back. In her arms. Alive and happy. And so far.so good.
She dressed her in her favorite pair of pyjamas. Lifted her into her arms without a second thought and carried her into her and Luis's bedroom. Ali lay her golden head on her shoulder sleepily. Barely stirring when she laid her down against the cool sheets and covered her lovingly. And just watched her. "Guess who else wants Mommy?" Luis said quietly. Surprising her. Cristian waved his arms at her. Wearing a sweet smile on his toothless face for the first time in over 24 hours. She took her son from Luis's arms and smacked him loudly on the cheek. He cackled with delight. His dark eyes sparkling with love for her.
"I know we shouldn't have him in the bed with us," she whispered later. Watching Cristian's little chest rise and fall with each breath as she held him close to her heart. And stroked Ali's silky hair. "But I don't.I don't want to let either of them out of my sight, Luis. Not tonight." "Neither do I," he admitted. He placed a tender kiss on Ali's forehead and rubbed a gentle thumb across Cristian's parted lips. "God, Luis," she whispered shakily. Overwhelmed at that moment by her feelings. About the last day. The longest day in her life. For their children. For him. He just smiled at her. And said, "I know."
Chapter 19
"A little girl," Sheridan said with a smile. "I still can't believe it. What does Jake think?" Gwen laughed. "Jake's head is filled with visions of torture and slave labor. That son of mine probably thinks he won't have to ever lift a finger again. He's not sweet about it like Ali," she smiled. "But I think the idea's growing on him. He wouldn't mind a baby sister so much if she were like Ali. It's so amazing how resilient she is, Sheridan. Ali is one tough kid." Sheridan glanced over to where Jake and Ali play in front of coffee table. A tender smile on her face as she thought of Ali's bravery. "Yes, she is, isn't she? She still has nightmares sometimes. But they're less vivid than they were a month ago. I think my nightmares are worse."
"Oh, Sheridan," Gwen said. Laying a soothing hand on her friend's arm. "You have her back. And soon.the kidnapper will be behind bars never to see the light of day again." Sheridan squeezed Gwen's hand and sighed. "Maybe I'm crazy. But I feel so sorry for his wife. She lost her baby, too, Gwen. The little girl at the wharf. He killed her. I don't know why exactly. How do you understand a murderer's reasoning? How could someone hurt an innocent little girl. Luis said she looked almost exactly like Ali. Ali told us the woman protected her. Called her "Lara." He gave her Ali to replace the daughter he'd taken away from her, Gwen. And she was so grief-stricken she went along with him. Until he tried to hurt Ali, too."
Gwen shuddered. A sudden chill making her cold. "And that's when he shot her," she said quietly. Sheridan nodded her head solemnly. "Eve says she'll never walk again." "How sad," Gwen said soberly. "Sheridan," she sniffled. "Let's talk about something less depressing, okay?" Sheridan shot a watery smile Gwen's way. The topic of their conversation didn't do anything for Gwen's emotional state. "Okay," she laughed softly. "Are you up to helping me plan Ali's birthday party? It's the first one since I've been back home, and I want to make it extra special. Try to make up for all the ones I missed." She watched in horror as Gwen burst into tears again. "Damn," she swore softly. "I'm so sorry, Sheridan. Don't mind me. I cried during Survivor the other night. Hank's still making fun of me." Sheridan giggled. "Survivor?" she asked in disbelief. "Yes," Gwen nodded. Smiling through her tears.
"Mommy?" Ali asked curiously. Crawling into Sheridan's lap. "What's so funny?" Jake rolled his brown eyes. "Don't even ask, Ali. Women," he muttered. Crossing his arms across his chest and plopping down beside them. "Mom cries ALL the time now. And she eats the yuckiest stuff. She made Dad get her frog legs last week. And she ate strawberry ice cream with pancake syrup on it when she finished that." He continued. But Ali was stuck on one thing. "Frog legs!" she gasped in horror. "You pulled a frog's legs off?" Sheridan bit her lip to keep from laughing. Gwen rolled her eyes as Jake grinned and said, "Yep. Me and Dad hunted for hours for that silly frog. He was huge. This big," he said. Stretching his arms out. "Dad had to call Uncle Sam over to help saw his legs off. Aunt Grace cooked them in this big witch's cauldron that she borrowed from Tabitha," he divulged wickedly as Ali covered her ears with her hands and squealed, "No more! No more!"
"Jake!" Gwen yelled. "That's enough. Tell Ali the truth." "Aw. Mom," he whined. "Alright," he muttered when Ali looked at him expectantly. "You're such a baby," he began. "But I like you anyways," he rushed. Seeing the pout on Ali's lips and the tears collecting in her big blue eyes. "It was just an itty bitty frog, Ali. Dad had to pull the legs off himself," he grinned devilishly. "Jake," Gwen groaned. Giving him a warning look. "I'm sorry," he said. Walking up to Ali. "Here. You can have my lucky penny. I promise not to tease you anymore." Gwen's eyes about popped out of her head with that statement. And she choked in surprise. Sheridan's brows were raised as Jake relinquished the lucky penny to Ali, and she laughed softly when she saw that his fingers were crossed behind his back. Ali beamed in pleasure. "Thank you," she said sweetly. Leaning forward to kiss Jake on the cheek. "Oh! Stop that! I just gave you my lucky penny. I don't want to be your boyfriend or nothing," he gagged in disgust. Gwen laughed and taunted, "Aww. How sweet. When's the wedding? Are you going to invite your dear old mom? What about Grandma? You'll look so handsome in your tux. I can't wait. Won't it be wonderful, Sheridan?"
"NNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Jake screamed as he ran out the front door. "Dad! Dad! Help me!!!"
Chapter 20
"What are you thinking?" Luis queried. Wrapping his arms around her from behind. She leaned back into his embrace with a sigh. "Just things," she said nonchalantly. "Sheridan," Luis admonished. "Be honest with me. I KNOW it's more than that," he said softly. Walking in front of her and kneeling at her feet. "It's just.I don't know, Luis," she said. Playing with the rings on her fingers nervously. He stilled her hands with one of his. Daring her to look away. Evade his questions once more. "Ali's birthday's soon." "So." he said calmly. "So? Luis," she said. Jumping to her feet. "So I disappeared from her life one week after her first birthday. How do we know something else isn't going to happen this time?"
"Sheridan," he said. Grabbing her firmly by the shoulders. "I love you, Baby. But that's ridiculous." Her blue eyes flashed fire. Anger swelling within her that he would so easily dismiss her fears. Great, Luis. Open mouth. Insert foot. "I don't mean to.Sheridan. I don't.dammit. This is coming out all wrong," he swore. "Sheridan.I don't mean to make your fears seem unimportant. To trivialize them. But you're here with us now. And I'll be damned if I'll ever let you go again. You're stuck with me," he grinned. His dark eyes dancing with amusement when he slid his fingers through the belt loops of her jeans and pulled her closer. "Luis," she said in a low voice. Desperately trying to keep up the pretense of anger. And failing miserably as her blue eyes softened at his simple "I love you." "No fair," she said. Eyes brimming with unshed tears.
"Fair? Fair, huh? This from a woman that can strike me dumb with one look into her amazing blue eyes," he teased. "See?" she laughed. "You make it so hard to stay mad at you. Why WAS I mad at you?" she laughed. Looping her arms loosely about his neck. And staring into his eyes. "Because I left the toilet seat up this morning?" Luis smirked. Laughing when she rolled her eyes. Almost immediately. "Because I was a jerk and spoke before I thought," he whispered. Kissing her palm tenderly. "You weren't a jerk," she whispered back. Threading her fingers through his black hair and nuzzling her nose against his before giving him a lingering kiss on the lips. A kiss so full of love it almost brought tears to Luis's own eyes. "God, how I missed you all those years," he breathed shakily. Smoothing his hands over her blond hair lovingly.
"I love you," he repeated. "I cannot say it enough. I'll never be able to tell you how much. Not even if I say it a million times a day for the rest of our lives." "Luis," she laughed softly. A glorious smile on her beautiful face. "Shut up." "What?" he asked with a devilish grin. "What was that I heard, Mrs. Lopez-Fitzgerald? Did I hear the lady order me to shut up?" he asked. Scooping her up in his arms and whisking her to their bedroom. "I'm afraid there's only one way I can grant the lady's request," he said. Kicking the door to their bedroom closed with his foot. "And how might you do that?" she teased. Knowing full well HOW her husband planned on granting her request. And enjoying every minute of it. "Wouldn't you like to know?" he said. Groaning as she slid slowly down his body. Pinning him against the door. "I'm waiting, Detective," she smirked. Running her hands up and down his muscular chest. "Well.Luis," she laughed. "Not capable of stringing together a coherent thought, huh?"
"Thank God for grandparents," he said breathlessly. Capturing her lips in a searing kiss and backing her up until the back of her legs hit their bed. "I second that," she mumbled against his lips. Ripping his shirt open in frustration when she couldn't work the buttons free. "I'm NOT sorry," she said when Luis quirked a dark brow at her. "You can always buy a new one," she suggested. He laughed. His hands slipping under her shirt and making short order of it as well. He covered her body with his. Lowering them both to the mattress below. Fumbling with the snap of her jeans and tugging them down her long legs a few minutes later. "Did you pour yourself into those things this morning?" he asked. Half seriously. Half teasingly. "Sorry," he yelped. As she flipped them over and straddled him.
Well.maybe not so sorry, he thought. Watching her slip the straps of her black lacy bra down her shoulders and reach back to unhook it. It had to be illegal to look that good after two children in five years. And he told her so. She just flashed him a dazzling smile. Somehow.someway.he was able to help her finish removing the rest of their clothing. And they made love. By turns tenderly. Gently. Wildly. Passionately. He cradled her face in his hands as they rode the final waves of pleasure and whispered the words he felt so deeply in his heart. Kissing away her tears as they spilled forth from her blue eyes. "I love you," he whispered again later. And Sheridan drifted off to sleep in his arms with a contented smile on her face. "I love you, too."
"Luis," Sam hissed. "You shouldn't be here. You're too emotionally involved. If that's Ali in there." "Sam. Don't lecture me. Look. You know I have to be here. Especially if my daughter's in that hotel room," Luis spoke. Crouching down beside his superior. And friend. "What's going down?" "A woman called 9-1-1 early this morning. Said she might have some information on Ali. Told the cops to hurry. The man holding her was dangerous." "Dangerous!" "Luis," Sam said gently. With a calming hand on the younger man's arm. "Her call was traced. To this hotel. Marty talked to the manager, and he told him he had seen a little girl. One that looked very much like the picture of Ali." "Where? Where is she, Sam? Why haven't you." "We can't do that, Luis. 'Cause the woman was right. She should know," Sam said. Wiping the sweat from his brow. "Her husband is holding her and the little girl hostage. He's got a gun, Luis. And he."
"What Sam? He what?" Luis demanded. "He's used it already," Sam said. Turning away. Unable to meet Luis's eyes. "No!" Luis cried. Despair creeping into his voice. "Luis!" Sam said harshly. "Stay calm. Or I'll have no choice but to have you escorted off these premises. You hear me?" Luis clenched his jaw and nodded slowly. But Sam could tell he was only going through the motions. The man had one thing on his mind. And God help the recipient of his anger.
"He's coming out!" Marty yelled. And Sam had to physically restrain Luis from rushing forward. Playing the hero. His worst nightmare was coming true right before his very eyes. In the crazed man's arms was a child. Her blond hair wild. Her big blue eyes wide with fear. She screamed in terror when the man held his gun to her head. Luis's whole body went stiff with tension as he uttered in an anguished voice, "Oh my god, Sam. He's got Ali. The bastard's scaring her to death. I'm going to kill him," he gritted out. Pulling his gun from its holster.
"No guns! No guns!" the kidnapper screamed madly. "I'll kill her! I swear I'll kill her!" he yelled. Pressing the gun more firmly against Ali's temple. "Didn't you hear what he said?" Luis cried desperately. "She's my little girl, Sam. Don't take any chances with her life," he pleaded. "Put the guns down," Sam ordered. "He means business." The man smiled in triumph. Clutching Ali tighter. Ali sobbed softly in his grip. Luis closed his eyes. Thankful Sheridan wasn't witness to this horrific scene. "Listen up," the man shouted. "If you give me what I ask for.I'll let the kid go." "He's lying," Sam muttered. "He has no intention of letting his free ticket out of here loose." "I know that," Luis hissed. "But do you see another way out of this, Sam?" he asked. Before standing up. "We'll give you everything you ask for. Just let the little girl go."
"Daddy! Daddy!" Ali screamed. And Luis's heart fell to the pit of his stomach when the madman looked at him strangely. "Shut up, kid," he warned. "What's she saying that for? Are you." Please, AliCat, he thought. Please understand. "What kind of question is that?" Luis laughed dryly. "Of course, she's not my kid. I don't know what she's talking about. Listen," he bit out impatiently. "Are you going to take the deal or not?" The man eyed him suspiciously for several moments. Then made up his mind.
"Yeah. I want a car. And your promise, no one will try to stop me from leaving." Okay, Luis thought. "I can do that," he answered levelly. How stupid was this guy? "Here," he said. Holding out the keys to his jeep. "You can take mine. Better yet.I can drive. My buddies here are sure not to try any funny business with me in the car," he reasoned. "Just let the little girl go."
"Okay," the man agreed. His dark eyes darting back and forth. "Give me the keys." "You want the keys?" Luis asked. "Here," he shouted. Tossing them at the man. The man loosened his grip on Ali momentarily in surprise. And that was all the time she needed to squirm free. "Ali! Get down!" he yelled. Raising his gun. "What the hell." the other man swore. Pointing his gun at Luis. He had no time to finish that thought before the first bullet hit him. Square in the chest.
Chapter 17
"We need an ambulance," Luis shouted. Checking the man for a pulse. And finding a thready one. "Luis," Sam said. A hand on his shoulder. "Let us take it from here," he said. Nodding toward Ali. "Take her home," he said quietly. "Thank you, Sam," Luis said. Hugging Sam briefly. "AliCat," he whispered. Kneeling in front of her. Tipping her chin up with his index finger. Ali's tiny chin quivered, and Luis's heart constricted at the tears rolling down her pink cheeks.
"I knew you'd come, Daddy," she cried. Throwing her arms around his neck and burying her face in his neck. "Oh Daddy," she sobbed as he stroked her long blonde hair and kissed the crown of her head. He didn't want to let go of her ever again. And Sam seemed to sense that. Recruiting one of the guys to drive him and Ali back to Harmony. Home. Back to Cristian and Sheridan.
Ali clutched his shirt the entire drive home. Her blue eyes drooping in fatigue. "It's okay, baby. Close your eyes. Daddy's here," he soothed. Rubbing lazy circles on her little back. Silvano looked on sympathetically from the rear view mirror as Luis coaxed his daughter to slumber. The poor kid had been through hell in the last 24 hours. If there were any justice in this world, the awful memory would be wiped from her young mind. But somehow.somehow he didn't think she'd be that lucky. Then again.she had two completely devoted parents and a whole network of people that loved her. It'd take time. But she'd be okay.
"Thanks Man," Luis waved. As the squad car pulled out of the driveway. He tucked Ali in closer to his heart and began slowly walking toward the front door. Tears in his brown eyes when he realized the enormity of the events of the past day. If he ever had any doubts at all, he knew now. He would do ANYTHING for his daughter. His son. His wife. His entire family. And his life wouldn't be the same without a single one of them.
His mother's face crumpled, and the brave mask she had been wearing the past 24 hours was gone as she saw her sleeping granddaughter nestled in her son's embrace. "Mijo," she whispered. "Is she.?" She left the question hanging in the air. "She'll be fine. Now that she's home. Where she belongs. Mama," he said in a choked voice when she kissed his cheek. "We have our angel back," his father whispered. Tracing Ali's sweet features with a gentle hand. "Where is she?" Luis asked. Searching the living room for her familiar figure.
His father slipped an arm around his mother's waist and hugged her to him. "They're in Ali's room," he said with a smile. Thinking of the smile that would surely light up Sheridan's face at this wondrous sight. "Martin," his wife said quietly as they watched their son carry his daughter down the hall. "I think we should leave them alone. Just for now." He glanced at his son once more. Then helped her into her coat and opened the door. Leaving the little family to themselves.
Luis stood in the doorway to Ali's room and listened to his wife sing to their son in a beautiful, wistful voice. Lullabies she'd sang to Ali when she was a baby. He could hear the tears in her voice. He watched silently as she laid Cristian down gently on Ali's bed. Placing a tender kiss to his forehead. Straightening up and picking up a picture from Ali's bedside table. A picture of the four of them. Shortly after Cristian's birth. An aura of sadness surrounded her. And he wanted to do away with it. "Sheridan," he uttered softly.
"Luis. I don't know if I can do it without her," she said. Without turning around. "She's such a big part of my life. Our lives. I feel so empty inside without her," she cried. Her blue eyes seeing him-and Ali--for the first time. "Luis?" she asked in disbelief. "Tell me I haven't gone crazy. Tell me this isn't some cruel trick of the mind. That I want her back so much, I'm imagining things," she pleaded. Edging closer. And reaching a trembling hand out to touch Ali's soft golden hair.
"She's real," she gasped. "How? Where?" she asked. A million emotions playing across her beautiful face. "Not now," he answered. Cupping her jaw in the palm of his hand. Stroking her lips with his thumb. "She IS real," he smiled. "And home. Where she belongs. C'mere," he beckoned. Wrapping his free arm around his wife. Sheridan came willingly. Gazing at their daughter's beloved face and sweeping her hair back from her forehead with a loving hand. "Mommy loves you, Sweetie. So much." Happy tears spilled from her lashes when Ali blinked her blue eyes open and whispered. "Always and forever, Mommy?" "Always and forever, baby," she smiled. Closing her eyes and sighing blissfully at the feeling of holding her tiny daughter in her arms again. Always, she mouthed. Squeezing Luis's hand. She held on. Determined never to let go.
Chapter 18
"Thank you, Eve," Luis said appreciatively. "No problem," Eve said softly. Patting Luis's hand. "I'm just relieved to have such good news for you. She's fine physically. But keep her close. Nightmares can be just as scary as the real thing. It'll take her a while to recover emotionally. She's going to need you and Sheridan. Your love and support is the best medicine," she said. Stepping outside with a smile. Luis locked the door behind her and walked toward his and Sheridan's bedroom. Turning out all the lights along the way.
"Hi, Daddy," Sheridan greeted with a smile as a he walked into their bathroom and found her and Ali relaxing in the bubbles. Ali smiled sweetly at him. Snuggling deeper in Sheridan's arms. "Hi, Daddy," she said somewhat shyly. Breaking out into a full-fledged grin as he scooped up some bubbles and wiped them on her nose. Sheridan's blue eyes sparkled with happiness. And she hugged Ali tighter. Making her squeak.
"Hmm," she laughed. "A new squeeze toy." "Mommy!" Ali giggled. "I'm not a toy!" "I don't know about that, Sweetie," Sheridan teased. Squeezing her tight again. And eliciting the same reaction. "AliCat!" Luis gasped in mock surprise. "Oh Daddy," she giggled. "You're so silly." "But you love me anyway, don't you, Baby?" "Yeah," she answered. Smacking him on the lips. Sheridan took the opportunity to douse him with bubbles.
"No fair," he grinned. Wiping the bubbles off his face with the back of his hand. "Two against one. You guys double-teamed me. This is war," he said. Smirking at Sheridan as he scooped some more bubbles up in his hands and advanced on her. Ali squealed in delight. "Ali," Sheridan laughed helplessly as Luis tortured her. With her daughter's help. "You're not supposed to help him." Her hysterical laughter echoed off the bathroom's walls.
The bubble fight finally ended. Cristian woke up wailing. And Luis graciously offered to go check on him. Sheridan climbed out of the tub and wrapped a towel around herself. Grabbing the fluffiest towel off the rack for Ali. "Sweetie, where are you?" she teased when Ali's soapy little body was swallowed up by towel. She smiled at Ali's muffled giggles. The adorable grin on her face as she poked her blond head out and exclaimed, "Here I am, Mommy!" And she pushed away the ache she felt when she remembered that just hours earlier, she'd had almost no hope. Her daughter was back. In her arms. Alive and happy. And so far.so good.
She dressed her in her favorite pair of pyjamas. Lifted her into her arms without a second thought and carried her into her and Luis's bedroom. Ali lay her golden head on her shoulder sleepily. Barely stirring when she laid her down against the cool sheets and covered her lovingly. And just watched her. "Guess who else wants Mommy?" Luis said quietly. Surprising her. Cristian waved his arms at her. Wearing a sweet smile on his toothless face for the first time in over 24 hours. She took her son from Luis's arms and smacked him loudly on the cheek. He cackled with delight. His dark eyes sparkling with love for her.
"I know we shouldn't have him in the bed with us," she whispered later. Watching Cristian's little chest rise and fall with each breath as she held him close to her heart. And stroked Ali's silky hair. "But I don't.I don't want to let either of them out of my sight, Luis. Not tonight." "Neither do I," he admitted. He placed a tender kiss on Ali's forehead and rubbed a gentle thumb across Cristian's parted lips. "God, Luis," she whispered shakily. Overwhelmed at that moment by her feelings. About the last day. The longest day in her life. For their children. For him. He just smiled at her. And said, "I know."
Chapter 19
"A little girl," Sheridan said with a smile. "I still can't believe it. What does Jake think?" Gwen laughed. "Jake's head is filled with visions of torture and slave labor. That son of mine probably thinks he won't have to ever lift a finger again. He's not sweet about it like Ali," she smiled. "But I think the idea's growing on him. He wouldn't mind a baby sister so much if she were like Ali. It's so amazing how resilient she is, Sheridan. Ali is one tough kid." Sheridan glanced over to where Jake and Ali play in front of coffee table. A tender smile on her face as she thought of Ali's bravery. "Yes, she is, isn't she? She still has nightmares sometimes. But they're less vivid than they were a month ago. I think my nightmares are worse."
"Oh, Sheridan," Gwen said. Laying a soothing hand on her friend's arm. "You have her back. And soon.the kidnapper will be behind bars never to see the light of day again." Sheridan squeezed Gwen's hand and sighed. "Maybe I'm crazy. But I feel so sorry for his wife. She lost her baby, too, Gwen. The little girl at the wharf. He killed her. I don't know why exactly. How do you understand a murderer's reasoning? How could someone hurt an innocent little girl. Luis said she looked almost exactly like Ali. Ali told us the woman protected her. Called her "Lara." He gave her Ali to replace the daughter he'd taken away from her, Gwen. And she was so grief-stricken she went along with him. Until he tried to hurt Ali, too."
Gwen shuddered. A sudden chill making her cold. "And that's when he shot her," she said quietly. Sheridan nodded her head solemnly. "Eve says she'll never walk again." "How sad," Gwen said soberly. "Sheridan," she sniffled. "Let's talk about something less depressing, okay?" Sheridan shot a watery smile Gwen's way. The topic of their conversation didn't do anything for Gwen's emotional state. "Okay," she laughed softly. "Are you up to helping me plan Ali's birthday party? It's the first one since I've been back home, and I want to make it extra special. Try to make up for all the ones I missed." She watched in horror as Gwen burst into tears again. "Damn," she swore softly. "I'm so sorry, Sheridan. Don't mind me. I cried during Survivor the other night. Hank's still making fun of me." Sheridan giggled. "Survivor?" she asked in disbelief. "Yes," Gwen nodded. Smiling through her tears.
"Mommy?" Ali asked curiously. Crawling into Sheridan's lap. "What's so funny?" Jake rolled his brown eyes. "Don't even ask, Ali. Women," he muttered. Crossing his arms across his chest and plopping down beside them. "Mom cries ALL the time now. And she eats the yuckiest stuff. She made Dad get her frog legs last week. And she ate strawberry ice cream with pancake syrup on it when she finished that." He continued. But Ali was stuck on one thing. "Frog legs!" she gasped in horror. "You pulled a frog's legs off?" Sheridan bit her lip to keep from laughing. Gwen rolled her eyes as Jake grinned and said, "Yep. Me and Dad hunted for hours for that silly frog. He was huge. This big," he said. Stretching his arms out. "Dad had to call Uncle Sam over to help saw his legs off. Aunt Grace cooked them in this big witch's cauldron that she borrowed from Tabitha," he divulged wickedly as Ali covered her ears with her hands and squealed, "No more! No more!"
"Jake!" Gwen yelled. "That's enough. Tell Ali the truth." "Aw. Mom," he whined. "Alright," he muttered when Ali looked at him expectantly. "You're such a baby," he began. "But I like you anyways," he rushed. Seeing the pout on Ali's lips and the tears collecting in her big blue eyes. "It was just an itty bitty frog, Ali. Dad had to pull the legs off himself," he grinned devilishly. "Jake," Gwen groaned. Giving him a warning look. "I'm sorry," he said. Walking up to Ali. "Here. You can have my lucky penny. I promise not to tease you anymore." Gwen's eyes about popped out of her head with that statement. And she choked in surprise. Sheridan's brows were raised as Jake relinquished the lucky penny to Ali, and she laughed softly when she saw that his fingers were crossed behind his back. Ali beamed in pleasure. "Thank you," she said sweetly. Leaning forward to kiss Jake on the cheek. "Oh! Stop that! I just gave you my lucky penny. I don't want to be your boyfriend or nothing," he gagged in disgust. Gwen laughed and taunted, "Aww. How sweet. When's the wedding? Are you going to invite your dear old mom? What about Grandma? You'll look so handsome in your tux. I can't wait. Won't it be wonderful, Sheridan?"
"NNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Jake screamed as he ran out the front door. "Dad! Dad! Help me!!!"
Chapter 20
"What are you thinking?" Luis queried. Wrapping his arms around her from behind. She leaned back into his embrace with a sigh. "Just things," she said nonchalantly. "Sheridan," Luis admonished. "Be honest with me. I KNOW it's more than that," he said softly. Walking in front of her and kneeling at her feet. "It's just.I don't know, Luis," she said. Playing with the rings on her fingers nervously. He stilled her hands with one of his. Daring her to look away. Evade his questions once more. "Ali's birthday's soon." "So." he said calmly. "So? Luis," she said. Jumping to her feet. "So I disappeared from her life one week after her first birthday. How do we know something else isn't going to happen this time?"
"Sheridan," he said. Grabbing her firmly by the shoulders. "I love you, Baby. But that's ridiculous." Her blue eyes flashed fire. Anger swelling within her that he would so easily dismiss her fears. Great, Luis. Open mouth. Insert foot. "I don't mean to.Sheridan. I don't.dammit. This is coming out all wrong," he swore. "Sheridan.I don't mean to make your fears seem unimportant. To trivialize them. But you're here with us now. And I'll be damned if I'll ever let you go again. You're stuck with me," he grinned. His dark eyes dancing with amusement when he slid his fingers through the belt loops of her jeans and pulled her closer. "Luis," she said in a low voice. Desperately trying to keep up the pretense of anger. And failing miserably as her blue eyes softened at his simple "I love you." "No fair," she said. Eyes brimming with unshed tears.
"Fair? Fair, huh? This from a woman that can strike me dumb with one look into her amazing blue eyes," he teased. "See?" she laughed. "You make it so hard to stay mad at you. Why WAS I mad at you?" she laughed. Looping her arms loosely about his neck. And staring into his eyes. "Because I left the toilet seat up this morning?" Luis smirked. Laughing when she rolled her eyes. Almost immediately. "Because I was a jerk and spoke before I thought," he whispered. Kissing her palm tenderly. "You weren't a jerk," she whispered back. Threading her fingers through his black hair and nuzzling her nose against his before giving him a lingering kiss on the lips. A kiss so full of love it almost brought tears to Luis's own eyes. "God, how I missed you all those years," he breathed shakily. Smoothing his hands over her blond hair lovingly.
"I love you," he repeated. "I cannot say it enough. I'll never be able to tell you how much. Not even if I say it a million times a day for the rest of our lives." "Luis," she laughed softly. A glorious smile on her beautiful face. "Shut up." "What?" he asked with a devilish grin. "What was that I heard, Mrs. Lopez-Fitzgerald? Did I hear the lady order me to shut up?" he asked. Scooping her up in his arms and whisking her to their bedroom. "I'm afraid there's only one way I can grant the lady's request," he said. Kicking the door to their bedroom closed with his foot. "And how might you do that?" she teased. Knowing full well HOW her husband planned on granting her request. And enjoying every minute of it. "Wouldn't you like to know?" he said. Groaning as she slid slowly down his body. Pinning him against the door. "I'm waiting, Detective," she smirked. Running her hands up and down his muscular chest. "Well.Luis," she laughed. "Not capable of stringing together a coherent thought, huh?"
"Thank God for grandparents," he said breathlessly. Capturing her lips in a searing kiss and backing her up until the back of her legs hit their bed. "I second that," she mumbled against his lips. Ripping his shirt open in frustration when she couldn't work the buttons free. "I'm NOT sorry," she said when Luis quirked a dark brow at her. "You can always buy a new one," she suggested. He laughed. His hands slipping under her shirt and making short order of it as well. He covered her body with his. Lowering them both to the mattress below. Fumbling with the snap of her jeans and tugging them down her long legs a few minutes later. "Did you pour yourself into those things this morning?" he asked. Half seriously. Half teasingly. "Sorry," he yelped. As she flipped them over and straddled him.
Well.maybe not so sorry, he thought. Watching her slip the straps of her black lacy bra down her shoulders and reach back to unhook it. It had to be illegal to look that good after two children in five years. And he told her so. She just flashed him a dazzling smile. Somehow.someway.he was able to help her finish removing the rest of their clothing. And they made love. By turns tenderly. Gently. Wildly. Passionately. He cradled her face in his hands as they rode the final waves of pleasure and whispered the words he felt so deeply in his heart. Kissing away her tears as they spilled forth from her blue eyes. "I love you," he whispered again later. And Sheridan drifted off to sleep in his arms with a contented smile on her face. "I love you, too."