A Love Untouched (part 3) By: Nicole Marie

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with nor do I own the show Passions, James E. Reily, or the any of the characters in the show. I am merely an obsessed Shuis fan who loves to write fan fiction about the best characters on the show. So don't sue me! Just sit back and enjoy the story!

Rating: PG-13 so far. Later the story will have a different rating. I will warn you in advance if that kind of thing offends you.

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Narration: This story takes place in the not-to-distant future. Sheridan had chosen Luis over Antonio because deep down, she believed it was Luis who she loved. Luis and Sheridan had finally started to get their lives back on track, much to Beth and Antonio's dismay. But Beth and Antonio had decided to fight for the people they love instead of giving in so easily. All was going well for Sheridan and Luis until jealously and revelations caused trouble in paradise: broken hearts that could not be mended.

It is now three years later, three years that Sheridan and Luis have been separated. Sheridan decided to move on with her life and she fled to Europe with the hope that she could forget about Luis and their life together in Harmony. Luis still lives in Harmony and he has been promoted to detective. He has not had any contact with Sheridan since that night they fought. He has remained friends with Beth and has finally forgiven Antonio for everything. Him and Antonio are close now and they typically go out to the bar once a week with Beth and Hank. Luis appears to be somewhat happy but deep down, his heart still aches for Sheridan. He thinks of her day and night and wants nothing more than to be with her again. But he believes that she wants nothing to do with him. Despite this, he still attempted to search for her.but came up with nothing.

Sheridan moved around Europe for a while before deciding that she would rather live in the United States. She moved to New York and started her own advertising business with a partner, wanting to feel like she could have a whole other life without Luis. She too appears to be happy and she has convinced herself that she is. However, Luis is not someone she could just forget about. She still loves Luis, but is too afraid to feel anything for him because she doesn't want to be hurt again. She denies her feelings and hides her emotions so she won't feel any pain. She has promised herself that she will never fall for Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald again, or any other man; now she prefers to live alone.

Recently however, Luis and Sheridan ran into one another at a small Italian restaurant. They were speechless to see the person they love but then began arguing. Sheridan claimed that things were over between them, they had been for over three year now. But Luis persisted, professing his love for Sheridan and telling himself that, no matter what, he would win her back.

* * * * * * * * In a fancy jewelry store in NYC- the next day * * * * * * * * * * *

Sheridan fingered the delicate golden bracelet in her hands and turned to the saleswoman.

Sheridan: How much does it cost?

Saleswoman: Oh that one.that's one of my favorites.made in France did you know?...Yes, my that really is a fine piece of jewelry!

The woman began to ramble on and on about the bracelet as if it were the most treasured and special item in the world. Not wanting to be rude but seeing no other way to get the woman to stop going on and on, Sheridan abruptly cut her off.

Saleswoman: Yes, this bracelet is really something el-

Sheridan: (abruptly) Yes, but how much is it?

Salewoman: (not the least bit affected by the irritated tone of Sheridan's voice) It's not too much.Not to worry Ms. Crane.it would be mere pocket change for you!

Her patience wearing thin, Sheridan sighed and placed the bracelet on the counter and walked out of the shop. Outside, she met Michelle, who was waiting for her and reading the latest issue of Glamour.

Michelle: Didn't you like anything?

Sheridan: No, I did.but the saleswoman wouldn't tell me the price.

Michelle: She wouldn't tell you the price?

Sheridan: No she wouldn't. (bitterly) I mean after all, I am a Crane and I can afford anything, right?

Michelle: (with concern) You okay Sheridan?

Sheridan: What do you mean?

Michelle: I mean, you're not yourself today at all. First, a waitress spills your coffee all over at breakfast and when she practically drops to your feet and begs for mercy, you snap at her. And now, you're getting all bent out of shape because some saleswoman assumes that price doesn't interest you because it's a well-known fact that you have money. What's wrong Sher? Come on, you can tell me.

Sheridan: (bluntly) Absolutely nothing.

Michelle: Sheridan.I've known you for a long time now and in that time, I've learned a few things about you.

Sheridan: Such as?

Michelle: Well first of all, you never lose control unless you're really upset. The episodes that you've had today tell me that something's bothering you. Second of all, you're a terrible liar and 'absolutely nothing' is not the explanation for your behavior. Thirdly, whenever you get really upset it's usually due to one person.Luis.That's what bothering you isn't it?

Sheridan: (angrily) Since when do you think that you know me so well Michelle? I am fine.really. And even if I was upset, who says that it would have anything to do with Luis?

Michelle: Because usually the things that we love the most are things that have the ability to upset and hurt us the most.

Sheridan: That's ridiculous. (somberly) Look Michelle, I'd really rather not talk about it right now.

Michelle: Ah! So there is something wrong!

Sheridan: Michelle look-

Michelle: Just tell me Sher! You'll feel so much better after you vent.

Sheridan: Okay.fine.it's not so much that I'm extremely upset or anything. It's just that.well.some people treat me differently than others. You know, they treat me like a Crane. This person with oodles and oodles of cash who demands respect and authority and doesn't care about anything but money. I just, I don't need that. I just want to be treated like a normal person, that's all.

Michelle: Treated the way that someone close to you would treat you?

Sheridan: Exactly.

Michelle: Someone like Luis?

Sheridan: Michelle, don't-

Michelle: No Sheridan, I think you need to face the facts. You miss Luis because you love him. And not just being with him, you miss the way that he treated you.

Sheridan: (trying to convince herself) I don't miss that.

Michelle: Yes, you do. And you're crazy if you think that the feelings you have are just going to disappear because you want them too. Love like that.it lasts forever.

Sheridan: (smugly) Since when are you the one to give expert advice on relationships and love?

Michelle: (laughing) Okay.so I'm not the best person to give you advice.but someone has to! Otherwise you'll just keep denying your feelings and live your life miserable and alone. I don't want that for you Sher.you deserve so much more.

Just then, Michelle's cell phone rang.

Michelle: Hello.yes.okay.go on explain.are you serious?...how did that happen?...right now?...Okay, I'll be right over. Bye.

Sheridan: Who was that?

Michelle: Trisha.she said there's a problem.I've got to get over there now.

Sheridan: I could take care of it Michelle.

Michelle: No, this is supposed to be your day off. Don't worry, I'll handle it. You just think about what I said okay?

Sheridan: Yeah, I will. See you later.

Michelle: Yeah, later. Bye.

Sheridan waved goodbye to Michelle and turned back to the strips of stores ahead of her. 'I might as well get some shopping done,' she thought. She walked along the sidewalk, trying without success to push aside the advice Michelle gave her and any thoughts of Luis. She couldn't help but think about where things had gone wrong. 'Oh Luis.how did things end up this way.how could something so wonderful have turned out so badly. I never thought this is where we would have ended up,' Sheridan thought.

Suddenly, out of nowhere, a vision popped into Sheridan's head. She saw her and Luis lying together on a bed of red satin sheets. The fragrance of Jasmine and roses hung in the warm, balmy air. There was soft, sensual music playing in the background and only the dim glow of the candles illuminated the room in light. Luis was making slow, passionate love to her. Her soft cries of ecstasy and pleas for more blended with Luis' moans and the sound of their passionate kisses. There movements were synchronized perfectly, just like when they danced the tango. Luis ran his hands all over her body and she begged for more until he met her requests, pleasuring her with his mouth this time instead. His mouth nibbled gently on her earlobes, moving to the crook of her neck until they- 'Whoa! Where did that come from?' Sheridan asked herself. Pressing her hand to her cheek, Sheridan realized that she was slightly warm and no doubt blushing furiously. 'I can't believe I just fantasized about making love to Luis.he and I are over! Once and for all!"

Sheridan silently chastised herself for having such wild fantasies about things that were not going to happen. She walked into a small men and women's clothing store, focusing her attention on the racks full of clothes rather than her overactive imagination. She walked over to a rack of summer skirts and sundresses, fingering the delicate materials, but not really looking at them. Unbeknownst to Sheridan, Luis had spotted Sheridan on the street and proceeded to follow her into the store. By the time Sheridan had reached the far corner of the store, which was somewhat hidden behind a tall rack of pants, he was walking up behind her, determined to talk some sense into her. However, Sheridan spotted Luis in the mirror in front of her before he could approach her. 'Speak of the devil,' Sheridan thought. Sheridan turned around at the same moment that Luis reached her. Seeing Luis made her heart beat faster, especially by their close proximity and the way his eyes penetrated into the depths of hers.

Luis: Sheridan.

Sheridan: Luis.

Luis: Look, we really need to talk.

Sheridan: I'm sorry, I have to go.

Sheridan started to walk off in another direction, desperate to put some space between them, but Luis grabbed her arm and pulled her closer still.

Luis: Don't walk away from me Sheridan. Don't abandon our love and leave us both miserable and alone again. Please.just hear me out.

Sheridan: Talking this through isn't going to get us anywhere.

Luis: No, I think it will get us somewhere.

Sheridan: Luis, things are over between us, I've told you that many times.

Luis: (somewhat painfully) Yes you have, but I can't accept that Sheridan. I love you. I have always loved you and I'm not about to let one fight or your fears stand in the way of our happiness.

Sheridan: Your happiness, Luis.

The shock was apparent in Luis' eyes.

Luis: (in a hurtful voice) How could you say something like that? (getting more upset by the minute) How can you stand here and lie to my face like that! You were happy dammit! We were both happy! And if you think brushing me off with the cold shoulder is going to get rid of me then think again!

Sheridan: (regretfully) I'm sorry Luis, okay! I didn't mean that.I was happy, alright!

Luis: Then tell me.Tell me that you wanted to be with me. Tell me that you were happy and that you wanted us to spend the rest of our lives together. (almost desperate now) Tell me that you loved me then just as much as you love me now!

Sheridan's eyes teared up at Luis' requests, all requests that she could answer within a second if she listened to her heart. But requests that had to go unanswered.

Sheridan: I'm sorry Luis.I can't.

Luis sighed and opted for another tactic, since getting angry proved to be useless in fighting his cause. He inched closer to her, so close that Sheridan could feel his breath her. He backed her into the wall, refusing to let her pass by. He put one hand on her back and tenderly stroked her cheek with the other hand.

Luis: Okay Sheridan. Tell me now that you don't feel anything. Tell me that you are completely unaffected by my touch and by my kiss.

And with that, Luis reached down and placed his lips upon her cheek, placing tantalizingly sweet kisses across it and moving near her mouth but never quite reaching it. Sheridan's eyes closed as Luis' lips brushed across the edge of hers, teasing her and torturing her mercilessly. If she moved her mouth even a fraction on an inch, his mouth would be on hers. The desire to do this was so strong that it took every last ounce of willpower and control Sheridan had to resist the urge to do so. Luis moved his hands up and down her back, savoring the feel of her. He reached up and placed his hand behind her neck. He moved his head back and Sheridan's eyes fluttered open. He placed his lips just in front of her; they were not more than an inch away from one another. As Luis spoke, Sheridan could feel his breath caress her face.

Luis: Alright Sheridan.tell me that you didn't want me to kiss you just then. Tell me that you don't want me to kiss you now.

Sheridan: Luis I-

For a moment, Sheridan was lost in the memorizing power of his eyes and lips. She ached so much to close the distance between them but she knew that would be going back to a place that she had spent years trying to forget. There was no going back now, too much damage had been done. She had hurt him too much and he had hurt her as well. What they had had to be over, didn't it? She convinced herself that this was so and gently pushed Luis' chest out of her way. She ran as quickly as she could out the door of the store, not looking back once.

* * * * * * In Sheridan's apartment suite- NYC-one week later * * * * * * * * *

Sheridan had just left the shower with her hair dripping wet and her towel clasped around her when the phone rang. Rushing over to it, she picked it up and breathlessly spoke into the telephone.

Sheridan: Hello?

Michelle: Hey there.

Sheridan: Oh, hi Michelle.

Michelle: So.how've you been Sheridan?

Sheridan: You just saw me yesterday, and the day before that, and the day before that...

Michelle: I know.but I'm really worried about you Sher. You've done nothing but sulk around for the past week.

Sheridan: (with a sigh) No I haven't.

Michelle: Yes, you have. And every time I try to talk to you it's like you're in some other world.Possibly, a world with Luis.

Sheridan: What? No, no, you're crazy if you think that!

Michelle: Admit it Sher, you miss him!

Sheridan: (stubbornly) I don't have to admit anything Michelle.

Michelle: You know, you never did tell me what happened after I left you that day.

Sheridan: Nothing interesting.

Michelle: I don't believe you Sher! You saw Luis didn't you?

Sheridan: Does it really matter?

Michelle: Only a lot.

Sheridan: Well, Luis is not a topic for discussion.he and I are over.we have been for three years and that's the way things are going to stay.

Michelle: Alright, but you're only kidding yourself. You know that, don't you?

Sheridan: (getting annoyed) Come on. Enough about all of this okay? The topic is closed for discussion. He and I are over.for good.

Michelle: If you say so.

Sheridan: I do.

Michelle: Well then, are we still on for today?

Sheridan: On for what?

Michelle: Don't tell me you forgot! We're supposed to go to that dance club tonight! Remember?...The tickets I won a few days ago for signing up as a new member?

Sheridan: Oh right.Look Michelle, I don't really feel up to it.

Michelle: Uh-huh, I knew it.

Sheridan: No! It's not because of what you're thinking. I just don't, well, you know that I'm not really into to this sort of thing.

Michelle: You don't have to remind me of that.I had to practically drag you into that dance club last time!

Sheridan: And?

Michelle: (sighing) I know.You hated it.But Sher, I really think some time out would do you some good. Especially to a place like this, where you can lose your inhibitions. you know.release yourself.

Sheridan: (laughing) Are you trying to preach to me now?

Michelle: No.I'm just saying, I think you need to get out.come on. We'll only stay for a little while.

Sheridan: Well.

Michelle: (begging) Please! Come on, this place is pretty new and it's supposed to be really cool!

Sheridan: (sarcastically) Now you sound like a desperate teenager.

Michelle: Well then why don't you play the part of a generous mother who will do anything for their teenage daughter? Come on!

Sheridan: Fine! I'll go, I'll go.Is eleven o'clock okay?

Michelle: Sounds good. See ya then.

Sheridan: Okay, bye.

Sheridan sighed and placed the receiver down. The absolute last thing she felt like doing was going out tonight. Unfortunantly, now she had to go. If she backed out, Michelle would know that it was Luis that was on her mind. He seemed to have taken control of her mind over the last week. First of all, she felt absolutely terrible for leaving him like that in the store. But what was even worse was that it had gotten to the point that her every thought involved him and she felt herself longing for him in a way that even she couldn't understand. If Michelle knew this, Sheridan knew she would physically drag Sheridan to Luis and make them talk and fix things between them. As appealing as that whole scenario sounded, Sheridan refused to give in. She had moved on, (or so she thought), and had promised herself that she would not turn back, no matter what. And that was that. End of story.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Hotel-NYC * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Jake: Heads up! (tossing the football he was playing with directly at Hank).

However, it ended up hitting Beth in the head instead.

Beth: OWWW! Jake! Why do you have to be such a jerk sometimes!

Jake: (trying unsuccessfully to hide his laughter) Sorry Beth, I didn't mean-

Beth: To what! Hit me in the head with the football?

Hank: Nope.I think he meant to hit me instead!

Luis walked in the room, a smirk on his face.

Luis: There goes Jake.acting his age again.

Jake: (rolling his eyes) Take a hike Lopez-Fitzgerald.

Maddie: Jake! Don't be rude. Come on. You shouldn't even be throwing that thing around here anyway.

Jake: (sarcastically) I'm sorry, I forgot to read the rules posted on the door.

Beth: (Glaring at Jake) Now let's see if I can get back to the map so I can find the location of the club we're going to tonight.without being disturbed.

Antonio and Liz sent disapproving looks towards Jake as he covered his mouth and left the room before bursting out with laughter. Beth shook her head and returned back to the map. Meanwhile, Luis wandered over to the window by himself, lost in his thoughts. He knew where Sheridan lived and where she worked, in fact, he knew everything about her life now in the short week and a half that he had been here. Being a detective, he had some connections with the local police department; that had really helped him find out about her. He had decided to leave her alone in the last week; he decided to let her recover from their encounter in the clothing store. He too, needed to recover from some of the hurtful things she said to him and the enormous pain he felt the moment that she left him standing there alone. But tonight, he decided, he was going to see her again. After convincing and then supporting Jake while he explained to the group that they should become members to the 'cool new club in the city,' Luis had put his plan into motion. Little did the group know that he had arranged for them to get the tickets that they had so coincidentally won earlier (because they signed up as new members) to enter the new club. A few calls here and there, and the whole thing was set up.

Convincing Sheridan's friend to go to the club had been a piece of cake; he told her that he was a co-owner of the club and that tonight was a for-new- members-only night, (Michelle had recently signed up as a member), and also that she was one of the few who won two tickets to enter for free, for only tonight. He casually mentioned that she should bring a good friend with her as well. Knowing Sheridan's tendency to sometimes avoid social situations and to bury herself in her other things (such as work), he told Michelle to bring someone who could really use a fun night out. He knew that this sort of club may not be Sheridan's kind of place, but it was the only place that he could get to cooperate with him on such short notice.

While the club didn't usually distribute tickets required for one to enter, Luis had begged with the owner to do things differently for one night, saying that he would provide generous compensation if necessary. Luckily, the club's manager didn't push him too far on that one, and agreed to do a one-night special for all of the new members. Luis had been grateful; now all he had to hope for was that Sheridan came with Michelle tonight. 'Sheridan had better come.' Luis thought. 'I need to make her face the truth.we are meant to be together and should not be separated for another day.' Tonight, Luis was going to convince Sheridan that they had to be together again because he loved her and deep down, she knew she loved him too. She just needed someone to remind her of that, someone to awaken those feelings she had long since buried deep inside her heart.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * New Club-NYC- 11:00pm* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Sheridan stood in front of the floor length mirror, assessing her choice of wardrobe for the evening. She was dazzling in the knee-length, deep red spagehetti-strapped dress with silk ruffles and matching red stilettos that she had chosen to wear. Her hair was fluffed and curled softly in several different layers, framing her face and a single golden bracelet adorned her arm. Her make-up was dramatic but not overdone and she had chosen to wear one of her favorite scents tonight; one that was as sensuous as it was simply pretty. She was beautiful enough to make any man desire her and promise to love her. But the only man she wanted was Luis. However, her stubbornness had blinded her to Luis' love. Luis.what was she going to do without him now that she'd found him again? She never thought he would find her here in New York, and she had never actually thought about how she would react if he did come back to her. Now, all the feelings had come rushing back so quickly that she kept losing control of herself around Luis. 'I need to remain cool, calm, and collected,' Sheridan told herself. 'I have to get over him, I just have too.'

Her thoughts were interrupted by the knock on her door. She grabbed her purse and fancy black jacket and walked over to the door.

Michelle: Hey Sher.ready to go?

Sheridan: Yeah, I'm just about ready.

Michelle: Nice choice of wardrobe. You look spectacular.

Sheridan: Yeah, you do too.

Michelle did look spectacular herself in her light green, knee-length, wide shoulder-strapped dress. Her light brown hair was straightened in layers that barely brushed her shoulders, and she wore only a simple gold chain around her neck. From her shapely frame to the small patch of freckles dusting her nose, she had a pretty appearance and a funny, outgoing personality that could easily attract the attention of any man.

Michelle: Alright then, let's go!

Sheridan: Okay.

The two of them left Sheridan's apartment and headed towards the club.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Hotel-NYC-11:15pm * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Luis: Come on you guys! What's taking all of you all so long to get ready!

Luis sat on the couch in their rather large hotel room waiting for everyone so they could go to the club and he could win back Sheridan. He was getting VERY impatient; he was annoyed that no one was ready on time and he was determined not to be separated from the woman he loved for one more day. Just then Beth came running in the room.

Beth: (breathless) Sorry Luis.it's hard to get ready on time with six other people ahead of you, all waiting for the shower!

Luis: (he huffed in annoyance) don't worry about it Beth. I just wish that everyone else would get out here so we can leave.

Antonio: (walking into the room with Liz and Maddie) Why are you so anxious to go Luis? It's not like we have to be there at a certain time or anything?

Luis: I know that. I just really want to go, that's all. So let's go!

Antonio: (jokingly) That's my little brother.impatient and persistent.

Luis: Ha ha.

Liz: Don't worry Luis, we're going to go.

Maddie: Yeah, we're just waiting for the other two, really slow guys. And Hank bet that he would be ready quicker than me!

Hank: (walking into the room with a smile on his face) I heard that Maddie.

Maddie: (blushing) Hank! I-

Hank: Say no more beautiful.you won the bet.

Beth: Would you stop flirting for at least two minutes and go drag Jake out here please?

Jake: No need.I'm right here.

Luis: Finally, now we can all go!

Luis pushed them all out the door and they drove to the bar, laughing and joking about things on the way there.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Bar-NYC-11:15pm * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

At precisely the same moment, Sheridan and Michelle walked into the new bar and were greeted by the hosts.

Michelle: (excitedly) Wow! This place is awesome, isn't it Sher?

Sheridan: (as her eyes wandered over the place) Yeah, it's pretty nice.

Michelle: See, I told you it wouldn't be that bad. This bar is not some routy, crazy place like the last bar we went too.

Sheridan: (smiling) You mean the place where they sprayed foam all over the crowd and then started screaming into the microphone, asking for women to take off their shirts and dance around the poles?

Michelle: (laughing) Yup, that's the place I was referring too.

Sheridan: Yeah well, this is definitely not that.

Michelle: So you don't mind staying?

Sheridan quickly surveyed the bar, noticing that the crowd seemed to be of her age group and more refined than at that last club. Most people sat at tables with drinks while a few brave souls were out on the dance floor, dancing with friends to the music playing on the speakers. There were no flashing lights or screaming people, so Sheridan decided that it would be safe to stay.

Sheridan: Sure. Let's get a table okay.

Michelle: Okay.

They went to the counter and ordered their drinks and sat at a table on the far end of the bar. At this very same moment, Luis and the rest of the group entered the bar, engaged in conversation.

Jake: Whoa! Look at all the hot babes!

Beth rolled her eyes and looked at him with disgust.

Jake: Hey Beth! Lighten up! Don't be upset, you know that there's no woman that's hotter than you!

Beth punched him in the arm and walked with Liz, Maddie, and Antonio over to the bar.

Hank: (noticing the anxious look on Luis' face) You alright buddy? Luis: Fine. Why do you ask?

Hank: You look a little nervous, that's all.

Luis' eyes frantically scanned the bar, looking for Sheridan.

Luis: No just-

Hank: Are you looking for someone?

Luis: No!

Hank: Oh.I get it, you're looking for some babe to hit on, right?

Luis: Hank. Come on.

Hank: (laughing) I'm just kidding buddy. Hey, are you going to come over to the bar with us?

Luis: In a little while, there's something I need to do first.

Hank: Okay man, take your time.

Luis: Thanks Hank.

Hank: No problem buddy.

Hank walked over and joined the others at the bar leaving Luis alone at the front of the bar. Realizing that the place was too big for him to see Sheridan by just standing in the front, he decided to walk around the whole club. He was getting towards the back of the club when he spotted her, sitting with her friend. She looked beautiful. The overhead lights captured the gold in her hair and the sparkle in her eyes as she spoke. He stood still for a moment, simply memorized by the mere sight of her. He wanted to wait until Sheridan was alone to speak to her, so he waited for her friend to leave.

Michelle: Hey Sheridan, I think I'm going to go talk to those cute guys at the bar. You want to come with me?

Sheridan: No.you go on ahead without me Michelle.

Michelle: If you're sure.

Sheridan: Yeah, I am. Don't worry about me okay?

Michelle: Alright. I'm going.

Michelle left the table and had the guys attention on her within seconds. Sheridan chuckled to herself, shaking her head at her best friends boldness. She sighed and started fiddling with her napkin, folding and shaping it into different things. Luis took this opportunity and approached her table.

Sheridan realized that someone was hovering over her and she looked up, seeing none other than the man who had been plaguing her mind, Luis.

Sheridan: Luis? What are you doing here?

Luis: Looking for you actually.

Sheridan: What? How did you know I was going to be here?

Luis: It's a long story. Anyway, that's not the point. The point is, I am here and I want to talk to you.

Sheridan: If this is about us-

Luis: Of course it's about us Sheridan. (making a sad puppy dog face) Come on Sheridan, just talk to me.

Sheridan looked into Luis' pleading eyes and the cute little face that he had put on.Her heart melted and her insides turned to mush just by the mere sight of him. She couldn't resist him and he knew it.

Sheridan: Okay Luis. We'll talk.

Luis' smile lit the whole room.

Luis: Great. Come on, let's go talk in private.

Sheridan nodded her head and Luis led her to the far wall of the club and took her around a darkened corner where they would be completely isolated. Sheridan swallowed nervously and began to think that maybe being alone with Luis wasn't such a good idea after all. Especially with the way she was aware of his every movement, his every touch. His hand was resting on her back, spreading currents of electricity throughout her entire body and he looked so devastatingly handsome in his dark pants and form-fitting dark blue shirt that Sheridan had to stop herself from practically drooling over him. Luis steered her around the corner and then turned to face her.

Luis: Okay Sheridan, it's time for us to talk.

Sheridan: Okay.

Luis: (somewhat nervously) Okay Sheridan.here it goes.Look, I have been doing a lot of thinking lately and I just want you to know that if you don't want things to go anywhere between us than I'll leave you alone.

Apparently Luis had taken Sheridan by surprise, judging from the look of shock on her face. Luis could tell that she still cared about him a lot and he hated to hurt her this way. But he had no other choice; it was all part of his master plan to win her back. Tonight he would make her realize that she wanted him and would be terribly distraught if he left her alone.

Sheridan: (shocked) What? Are you saying that you're finally going to leave me alone?

Luis: That's right.I won't bother you so, you'll never have to see me ever again.

Sheridan: (trying to hide the hurt from her voice) Never again?

Luis: That's what I said.

Sheridan: Well, well.Good! (trying to sound happy and relieved but failing miserably) I'm glad you're going to leave me alone. Things are over between us anyway and we probably shouldn't ever see one another again!

Luis: (sounding as if he agreed with this) Yup.you were right. You and I would both be both better off without one another and should officially end this relationship now.

For some reason Sheridan didn't quite understand, she felt like someone had taken her heart and ripped it up into a million little pieces. She tried to be strong and deny what she was feeling; she had to pretend that she was unaffected. But something in Luis' words had hit her.hard. He had said 'you and I,' not 'we.' This made Sheridan's eyes tear up. Realistically, she knew that things were over between them but somewhere in heart she knew she had still held hope for the two of them. But now, that hope had disappeared. 'They' were over. If this was the way that she had convinced herself she wanted things to be, then why was she so upset, so hurt. She had never felt so alone in her whole life and now she knew that loneliness was finally here to stay, forever. She turned away from Luis as waiting tears coursed down her cheeks. She managed to keep her sobs quiet but Luis could tell she was upset. Luis: (concerned) Sheridan? Are you alright? (spinning her around and seeing the tears she was quickly trying to wipe away). Oh Sheridan.

Luis grabbed her hands, leaving the tears free to fall.

Luis: I knew you still cared for me as much as I care for you.

Sheridan: (sniffling as she wiped away her tears) What? But you said-

Luis: I only said that to make you realize that you need me. I know you still love me Sheridan. Please don't deny what you're feeling. Don't push me away again.

Sheridan: (softly) Oh Luis.You don't understand. Alright, yes I still care for you but we can't be together. There are too many problems, too many complications. You don't understand.

Luis: That's ridiculous!

Sheridan: No, it's not.

Luis: Yes Sheridan, it is. I mean, here you are, telling me that you still care for me but that you're afraid of the problems that we'd have to encounter. So we had a few arguments, a few disagreements! That doesn't mean that our relationship has to end just because we have a fight! And that certainly doesn't mean that we are going to have a fight like that again in the future. Three long, lonely years has made me realize that I can't live without you Sher. I promise you, I'm never going to let anything come between us again.

Sheridan: But how can you be sure of that? We always think that nothing will ever come between us but something always does.

Luis: (lifting her chin so he can look straight into her eyes) I can be sure because I love you. Please, just forget about your fears and uncertainties about the evil trying to tear us apart and be with me. Just don't walk away from me again, I can't handle that.

Sheridan: (looking down at the ground) I'm sorry Luis. I can't just forget about all that. It's more complicated than you think.

Luis: Why are you doing this Sheridan? Do you not love me anymore?

Sheridan didn't answer.

Luis: That's it, isn't it? You don't love me?

Sheridan still didn't speak, doing her best to avoid his intense stare.

Luis: Answer me dammit! Do you love me?!...Stop playing games with me, I need to know!

Sheridan: Luis I-I-I just can't answer that question.

Luis: I don't understand you! One minute you're crying because I'm telling you that I don't want to be with you and now, after I've said that I really do want to be with you, you're telling me that you can't be with me! I don't understand you Sheridan!

Sheridan: (getting angry) Well, I don't understand you either Luis! I mean, you come here, parading around like you control me and thinking you can just take me back after three years! I have a new life, a different life now. One that I'm happy with and one that doesn't include you!

Luis: You can say that all you want but I see behind the façade. You still love me, I know it! And deep down in your heart, you know that you want to be with me! It's your damn head that doing too much thinking and worrying about ridiculous arguments that we may never even have!

Sheridan: Ahh!

Sheridan yelled out her anger, unable to keep herself calm anymore. She raised her hand to slap him across the face but he caught her wrist before she could slap him. It was then that they both realized there close proximity. Luis had pushed Sheridan against the wall and they were both breathing heavily from their anger. Luis's eyes met Sheridan's at exactly the same time her eye's met his. She licked her lips, a movement that his eyes caught. He released her wrist and moved his hand her cheek. His eyes fell to her lips and his fingers gently caressed them. Sheridan could feel her heart pounding so hard that she was afraid she would have heart attack. She was trembling all over and quivering with anticipation at what would happen next. Luis moved his mouth to her face and kissed her cheeks, dampened from the tears she had shed. Then he backed away and looked into her eyes. Deep liquid brown eyes full of love and desire met icy blue eyes which reflected these same sentiments. Finally Luis lowered his head and met her in an all-consuming, passionate kiss. They kissed each other frantically, almost desperately; everything that had build up over the three long years came out in their kisses. Luis moved his hands to her neck and then ran them down her arms, sending shivers all throughout Sheridan's body. He moved his hands to her back, pressing her closer to him so that not even the smallest sliver of light could get between them. Sheridan put her arms around Luis, wanting him to be even closer to her. She entangled her fingers his spiky black hair, running her fingers through it and pressing his head to plant his mouth more firmly against her own. Luis pressed her against the wall and kissed her with a passion that made her knees go weak and her head spin and she kissed him back with a passion that she didn't even know she had. He teased her with his mouth at first and then his tongue pressed against her mouth, begging for entry. She met his request and let him kiss her even more deeply.

Sheridan: (mumbling between kisses) Luis.

Luis: Sheridan...Don't (kissing her again).say anything. Just let this moment last.

Sheridan could do no more to fight him than she could do to stop the seasons from changing. She obliged his request and moaned when he gave her another long, probing kiss. He backed away to get some air and then rested his head again Sheridan's head. They were both breathing heavily but were content in just feeling one another. They stayed like that for some time until Sheridan realized the situation at hand. She started to say something but then decided to think things through first.

Her mind was a whirlwind of confusion; all of her emotions ran wild, mixing all of the things that she was feeling together. Feelings she had that she could easily identify were desire, pleasure, and love however, she still had these underlying fears and feelings of uncertainty. What should she do? She argued with herself for a moment before deciding that it was best to just forget that this had ever happened and just move on. She backed away to tell Luis this until she looked into his eyes and saw the incredible love that was present in them. Love that she knew her own eyes undoubtedly reflected. She opened her mouth and then shut it. She did this twice before deciding to let Luis be the first one to speak.

Meanwhile, Luis was having his own private battle of emotions. He knew what he felt for Sheridan. It was love, pure and simple. But right now he wanted her so much that it took every ounce of control he had not to carry her to his bedroom at the hotel and make passionate love to her all night long. He knew that that probably wouldn't do much to win her over for eternity. No matter how much he knew she loved him, she had to be the one to say it. She had to admit her own feelings, her own desires. He noticed that she looked nervous and seemed to be waiting for him to speak so he decided to be the first to speak.

Luis: Sheridan, that was incredible, wasn't it?

While waiting for her reply, he saw her nervously chew on her bottom lip.

Luis: Sheridan?...No, don't do this again. Tell me you are not going to deny what I know we both felt in that kiss!

Sheridan: No Luis.I'm not going to deny anything.Or swear to anything either. It was a simple kiss and it's over now so it would be best if we both just forgot it ever happened.

Luis: What?! Are you crazy? I can't believe that even after that kiss, you are still going to push me away! We belong together! If nothing else has proven it so far, that kiss sure did!

Sheridan: Luis, please just trust me when I say that this relationship needs to be over! That's all there is too it.I never should have let myself get carried away again.

Luis: This relationship is far from over Sheridan! I swear, if I have to fight until my dying day to win you back again, I will do it! Just don't leave, let's talk about this.

Sheridan: I'm sorry.I have to go.

Luis: Sheridan, no! (begging) Please don't walk out on us again!

Sheridan: (starting to break into tears) I can't, you-you don't understand okay.you can't understand.

And with that, Sheridan ran away from Luis once again, leaving him standing alone, frustrated and angry. Luis walked out from behind the corner, only to run into the rest of the group.

Beth: (happily) Luis! There you are! I've been looking all over for you. Where were you?

Luis: (regaining his composure) Oh, I just had some important phone calls to make.I've finished them now.

Beth: (smiling) Oh So you wanna dance?

Luis: (smiling as well) No thanks Beth. I'm actually kind of tired.

Beth: Tired? But we haven't been here that long.

Luis: I know but-

Suddenly Jake walked over, draping his arm around Beth.

Jake: Hey there Luis. I was wondering where you were. Some of the ladies were getting lonely here.

Beth: (with disgust, removing Jake's arm from around her) Don't worry about it Luis, we were just fine.

Maddie walked over with a gleeful Hank then, laughing hysterically at the joke he had just told. (Readers note: hmmm.I wonder if she was laughing with Hank or at him!)

Maddie: (cheerfully) Hey you guys!

Hank: Hey buddy. You up for a game of eight-ball?

Luis: No thanks Hank. I'm actually really tired, I think I'll just leave.

Maddie: Leave? But we just got here?

Jake: We've been here for a while.(jokingly) you must have just lost track of time while you and Hank were over there making out in the corner.

That earned him a punch in the arm from Maddie.

Jake: Ouch! Hey I was just kidding.

Hank: (glaring at Jake) Well the next time you're going to 'kid' around, be sure to let us know about it, okay?

Jake: (grinning at the trouble he was causing) No problem.

Liz and Antonio walked over with differently interestingly colored drinks in each hand.

Liz: Here's you drink Maddie.

Maddie: (grabbing her drink) Thanks.

Antonio: (handing Hank his drink) And yours Hank.

Hank: Thanks man.

Antonio: So what do you guys want to do? Anyone up for a game or anything? Luis?

Luis: You know actually I think I'm going to go back to the hotel. I am kinda tired and I could really use the rest.

Liz: Go Back? Are you sure?

Luis: Yeah.but don't worry, you guys can stay here. I'll just catch a taxi or something.

Beth: (concerned) Are you all right Luis?

Luis: Fine, why do you ask?

Beth: I don't know, you just sound kind of depressed.

Luis: I'm okay.really. I just need some sleep, that's all.

Beth: Okay. Do you want me to come back with you?

Luis: No, I'll go alone.

Beth: (disappointed) Alright, well I'll see you later.

Maddie and Hank: Bye Luis.

Luis: See ya.

Antonio: Don't forget to come up with some ideas of other things we could do tomorrow.

Luis: Yeah I will.

Luis said goodbye and walked over to the door of the club. He was much too upset to stay there and enjoy himself tonight. How could he be expected to enjoy anything without Sheridan with him? He decided that he would just go back to the hotel, go to bed, and dream about the woman he loved until morning. The woman he would win back someday soon. He just knew it.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *Sheridan's apartment-NYC-12:15am * * * * * * * * * * *

Michelle: Alright Sheridan, I did as you asked. I didn't ask you any questions on the whole ride home. But now, I want some answers. I want to know why you came over to me and grabbed my hand, and then dragged me out of that club faster than I could even walk. What were you running away from?

Sheridan: (sighing) Trust me Michelle, you don't want to know.

Michelle: Yeah, I do.

Sheridan: It's not important, just know that I had an interesting encounter, that's all.

Michelle: Details, you're not giving me details here!

Sheridan: Some things are better left unexplained.

Michelle: (sighing) Well okay. But I have to tell you that you interrupted a great conversation I was having with this total babe.

Sheridan: (chuckling) I'll remember that.

Michelle: Yeah, so will I on all the cold and lonely nights that I have to spend without him.

Sheridan: Michelle! Haven't you made me feel bad enough already?

Michelle: Yeah, I guess so. Well, are you sure you're okay?

Sheridan: Positive. Go home and get some sleep, I'll be okay.

Michelle: Alright. But get a good night's sleep okay.

Sheridan: Okay, bye. (talking to herself after Michelle left) That's one thing that will never happen tonight. Luis is going to keep me up all night without even being here to do so.

Sheridan sighed and went to go take a shower. After she was finished, she sat on the couch, thinking about what lay ahead for her in the future.

Sheridan: (talking to herself again) Oh Luis.if only you knew the truth. What little fears and doubts I have would never be enough to stop me from being with you.I have no choice but to remain cold and distant towards you.If only you knew the truth.I wish I could tell you, but I can never tell you.

Sheridan walked over to her desk drawer and removed an old picture of her family, taken many years ago.

Sheridan: (venomously) Damn you father.you'll pay for this.one day, I swear you'll pay for ruining my life. and the life of the man I love.

To be continued.