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Something To Believe In
Chapter Two
Written by Shay
"Luis, buddy, you need to relax," Hank commented, coming up behind his life-long friend and giving him a good natured shove on the shoulder.
Luis' tense expression faded into a grin and he tore his eyes away from the clock he'd been staring at for the past three hours. "I can't help it. What if somehow Julian or Alistair found out --"
"Dude, chill out," Hank interrupted. "Julian and Alistair don't have a clue. And even if they found out now, there's no way they'd make it down here in time. You're getting married in an hour, Lo-Fitz."
At the mention of an hour, Luis broke out into a huge smile and patted his friend on the back. "You're right. But can you blame me?"
"Not in the least. And speaking of only having an hour, we should get to the church," Hank rationalized and Luis nodded his agreement.
After he'd left Sheridan earlier that day in their room, he'd set off to find the perfect local for their nuptials and had stumbled upon a tiny church tucked away in the heart of the island. After explaining their situation, the reluctant priest had agreed to marry them, even on such a short notice. It might not be the big wedding they had always dreamed of, but it would legally bind them together in the eyes of the law and of God.
******
"Are you sure this is the right way?" Sheridan asked nervously as Gwen navigated the rented vehicle towards their destination.
Taking her eyes off the road for a second, Gwen glanced over at her friend and gave her a reassuring smile. "Relax, Sher. Hank called while you were in the dressing room with directions. We'll be there in a few minutes."
Sheridan nodded and let her gaze wander to the world outside. They were in a residential area, which she found odd, but she trusted Luis indefinitely. She hoped they arrived at their destination soon, she wanted to see Luis, wanted to be pronounced his wife so nothing could ever come between them again. She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't realize when the car came to a stop. Only when Gwen's door slammed did she snap out of her reverie. Quickly exiting the vehicle, she gasped when she caught sight of where they were. Before her was a little church, something straight out of a movie, complete with the white fence going around the perimeter. Flowers bloomed all around and there was a tiny cemetery off to the side. The church itself was white, with large stained glass windows stretching from top to bottom. There was even a little steeple on top with a cross erected from it. Steps led up to the double doors and outside stood a man who looked very much like a bodyguard.
"I can't believe he did this," Sheridan whispered in awe.
"Oh come on, this is Luis we're talking about," Gwen commented, giving her a little push forward. "You better get in there or you're going to miss it."
Sheridan shot her a look, but began up the walk and steps towards the doors. As she reached them, the man gave her a tight smile.
"Ms. Crane?" He asked stiffly.
Somewhat confused, she nodded, exhaling loudly when he stepped aside and let them inside.
"What was that all about?" Gwen asked as they entered and the doors closed behind them.
"I have no idea," Sheridan replied with the same bewildered tone.
Gwen opened her mouth to speak, but was cut off when Hank came up from behind.
"Ah, you found it," He said as he approached, smiling brightly. "Sheridan, you look gorgeous."
Sheridan, who had already dressed at the hotel after their shopping trip, blushed. "Thank you, Hank. Is Luis --"
"Wearing a hole in the floor of the ushers dressing room? Yep," Hank grinned. "Gwen, it's good to see you again," He said, finally acknowledging the other woman.
Gwen smiled. "You, too."
Sheridan watched them with interest. Gwen had spent a good deal of their time out earlier talking and asking about Hank and she hadn't missed the looks that had passed between the two. She'd definitely have to get to the bottom of that when they got back to Harmony!
"Are you Sheridan?" A kind voice asked from behind and she whirled around to see an elderly man standing there.
"Yes."
At that, he smiled gently. "It is a pleasure to meet you, my child. I'm Father Stephen, I'll be marrying you and Mr. Lopez-Fitzgerald today."
"It's nice to meet you, Father," Sheridan said demurely. "I can't thank you enough for doing this. Especially on such a short notice."
The priest nodded. "Well, after hearing your story from your young man, there was no way I could not. We wouldn't want this little one to be born out of wedlock, now would we?" He finished, softly patting her stomach.
"No, we don't," Sheridan readily agreed.
"There is one final thing, of dire importance, that needs to be taken care of before we get things underway," He paused, pulling out a piece of paper and handing it to her. The marriage certificate. There had been one before of course, but that had become null and void when she married Antonio. Taking the paper and the offered pen, she more then happily signed her name underneath Luis' familiar scrawl. "Well then, let's get you married, shall we?"
*******
Luis nervously tugged at the collar of his suit, earning a grin from Hank, who stood beside him at the alter of the church. The ceremony was set to begin in about five minutes and he couldn't remember ever being so anxious!
Lanie Houston, an eccentric older woman who served as the church's organist slipped into the worship area, looking quite pleased. A few seconds later, Father Stephen appeared and made his way up to where the other two men stood.
"Your bride is just about ready," He relayed, causing a huge smile to spread across Luis' face. "We'll get started in just a few moments."
"I can't wait," Luis said, beaming.
"I think the feeling is mutual," Father Stephen acknowledged. "Do you have the rings?"
Hank nodded and pulled the velvet box that held the same rings that were to join them together prior to the explosion. Both had been cleaned and shined to a glittering gold and inscribed with words of forever.
"All right. And you have your vows ready?" He asked, turning to Luis, who nodded.
"Yes, Father."
"Very good. Then I suppose we're ready to begin."
Luis rubbed his hands together, determination settling over his features. "Let's get this show on the road."
*******
"Nervous?" Gwen asked, adjusting the veil the organist had found in the back room onto Sheridan's head, minding her carefully curled hair.
"Not in the least," Sheridan answered honestly, smiling as her daughter awoke inside her, ready to celebrate her parents happy day with them. "I've been ready for this day for so long, I'm too happy to be nervous."
"Well, all your dreams are about to come true," Gwen replied happily, sticking the last pin in to hold the veil in place. "All done."
"How do I look?"
Gwen paused, her eyes taking in the vision before her and she smiled brightly. "You look amazing. Luis is going to be beside himself."
Sheridan seemed to glow at her compliment, her blue eyes sparkling as they never had before. "Well that is the desired effect."
"I don't think you have to worry about that. You could go out in a garbage bag and Luis would still be left speechless," Gwen chuckled.
"I can't believe we're actually getting married," Sheridan sighed. "After all this time, we're finally going to be husband and wife."
"And nobody deserves it more," Gwen assured her with a small hug. "You two deserve all the happiness in the world."
"Stop," Sheridan giggled, wiping a tear from her eye. "Or you'll ruin all my makeup before I even make it down the aisle."
"I mean it, Sheridan. After everything you've been through, there are no two people more deserving of this then you."
"Thank you," She murmured with teary eyes.
It was then that Lanie poked her head into the room with a grin. "It's time."
With a deep breath and a huge smile, Sheridan turned towards the doors. "Let's do this."
*******
Luis smiled politely as Gwen made her way down the aisle as Sheridan's maid of honor, but there was only one woman he was interested in seeing. It seemed like forever, but Gwen finally reached the alter and gave his hand a gentle squeeze before stepping off to the side. There was a pause as Lanie changed the sheet music in front of her and then Luis' whole world stopped.
She entered the room in an off white ankle length dress, a pair of matching heeled sandals upon her feet. There was a shoulder length veil on top of her curly blonde hair and he could see the intensity of her blue eyes from where he stood. A smile stretched from ear to ear and his heart began to beat faster as her gaze collided with his.
Her walk to the alter was made in slow, deliberate steps and her smile only grew larger as she neared. Luis stood next to Hank, his face alight in utter happiness as he waited for her to join him.
When she finally reached him, his hand curled around hers and he brought her as close to his side as possible. The priest smiled down at them, satisfied now with his decision to wed these two in holy matrimony. Their love illuminated from every pore and seemed to make everything around them glow. Yes, he was indeed doing the right thing.
*******
Luis barely heard a word that was said, as he was too enthralled with the beauty beside him. It wasn't until the priest urged him to say the words he'd written that he came back to earth.
Taking both of Sheridan's hands, he held her gaze and took a deep breath.
"I've never been a man great with words, but when I sat down to write this, they just seemed to pour out. It's what you do to me, you make me a better person. You complete me, Sheridan, in a way I never knew was possible. You make everything, no matter how dull and dark, seem bright again. I never honestly believed I'd one day stand here, pledging to spend the rest of my life with someone, but that all changed when you came crashing into my world." He paused, earning a light laugh from his bride. "We've been through more in the past few years then most go through their entire lives and still, we're both standing here, before God, vowing to love and cherish each other for all eternity. I'm not a big believer in all things fate, but I do know that you are my destiny. You are my soul mate and I swear to you today that I'm going to spend everyday of the rest of our lives together letting you know just how much I love you."
When he finished, Sheridan's face was still smiling, but she also had tears running down her face in torrents. When the priest motioned for her to say hers, she reluctantly let go of one of his hands to wipe away some of her tears. Once her hand was again tucked within his, she began.
"There are so many things that I want to say, but I don't have the words to say them. I want to tell you how much you mean to me, but there will never be enough ways for me to do so. I want to tell you how safe you make me feel, but there aren't adequate words to make you understand. I want to tell you how much I cherish you, how you can brighten my world with just a smile, but I'm afraid if I try, I'll never get my point across completely. So instead, I'll thank you. Thank you for everything you've given me, thank you for being who you are, for never deserting me, even when things were at their worst. But above all else, thank you for saving me, for loving me. And I know they aren't much, but the only words I could find that come close to expressing what I've been trying to say is I love you. I love you more then anything in the world and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you."
By the end of her speech, Luis' hands were gripping hers so tight, she almost thought circulation was going to be cut off, but that thought flew out of the window as her blue eyes once again met his. Those dark orbs were so full of emotion it was almost as if somebody has physically struck her. What made her breath catch, however, was the appearance of a few glistening drops in the corner of his eyes.
The rest of the ceremony was a blur as they merely went through the motions. There was the fumbling with the rings and the repeating of the words that would join them together, forever, but then were only attune to each other. It wasn't until Father Stephen pronounced them husband and wife did either of them snap out of it. With indescribable joy, Luis pulled her to him and kissed her with every fiber of his being, which she returned whole-heartedly. It was the kiss that finally put their past to rest and sealed their fate as Mr. and Mrs. Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald.
*******
"I can't believe we're actually married," Sheridan sighed happily, leaning her head against Luis' chest as they danced their first dance a little later that night.
"It does seem a little unbelievable, doesn't it?" Luis murmured, pulling her closer as the lyrics to "Imagine" floated through the room.
Sheridan didn't respond with words, but he felt her head nod against him. They were at some fancy restaurant Gwen had insisted on treating them to, as some semblance of a reception.
The rest of the dance was done in silence, both of them quite content to just be in one anothers arms, relishing in the knowledge that they were now bound to each other for life. When the last notes of the song echoed through the speakers, Luis pulled away, his face full of love and utter happiness.
"I love you," He whispered, cupping her face in his hand.
"I love you, too," She whispered back tearfully, smiling as his lips descended onto hers, making the rest of the world disappear.
*******
"Luis, put me down!" Sheridan giggled later that night when Luis swept her up in his arms outside their hotel room.
"Can't. I'm carrying you over the threshold," He grinned, finally managing to unlock the door and push it open with his foot. Somehow he got them inside the darkened room without injury and set her on her feet, his arms going around her waist and pulling her to him as he devoured her mouth with his.
"Mmmm," Was Sheridan's first coherent thought as he moved lower to the exposed skin of her neck. A low moan escaped her being when his hand traveled up her back and began to slowly pull the zipper of her dress down.
"God, you're beautiful," He muttered, backing up just the slightest so he could shrug out of his jacket. A shiver ran down her spine as he gently caressed her cheek, raining sweet velvet kisses on her eyelids, on her cheeks, her nose, her lips.
The silver moonlight shone through the open window, illuminating him in a way she had never seen before. With a full heart and trembling hands, she quickly began to unbutton his shirt, placing soft sensual kisses as each section of skin became exposed. Stopping her slow torture, she raised her eyes to meet his blazing gaze, unable to grasp the fact that he was her husband. Hers. Forever. The only thing she had ever wanted and it was finally hers. Letting her hands move up his now bare chest and into his soft hair, she leaned in, as if to kiss him and whispered. "Make me your wife, Luis. Make love to me."
He needed no further prompting as he swept her off her feet and over to the bed, where he did just that.
*******
Meanwhile, back in Harmony, Julian Crane was sitting in his office, a glass full of brandy in one hand and a desolate look upon his face. In the background, a soft female voice sang, the same song playing repeatedly as he attempted to drown his sorrows.
Suddenly the phone on the large mahogany desk rang and he glared at the intrusive object with disdain. Downing the rest of the amber liquid, he slowly rose and made his way to where the damnable thing was still ringing.
"Julian Crane," He answered in a somber, monotone voice.
"Julian, what the hell took you so long?" His father barked over the speaker phone. "And turn off that insipid music. I don't need you blubbering over Eve Russell when we've got a serious problem on our hands."
Resisting the urge to hang up on the old man, Julian reluctantly flipping the stereo off. "What problem is that, Father?"
"I'm talking about your sister and that damn Lopez-Fitzgerald," Alistair stated loudly, causing his son to sigh and drop down into the leather chair behind the desk.
"What's Sheridan done now, Father?" He asked, his tone bored.
"I just received word that your sister and Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald were married down in Bermuda earlier today."
Surprise lit up Julian's face as he poured himself another generous helping of brandy. "Married? Surely not, Father. She's still married to that other one. Even Sheridan isn't stupid enough to marry two men at once."
"Julian, you imbecile," Alistair's voice boomed. "If you kept tabs on her like you're supposed to, you'd know that the annulment was final on that yesterday!"
"She certainly didn't waste any time," He commented, shaking his head. "I still don't see the problem, Father."
"The problem is the same problem we've had for years! Luis now has access to us and we can not allow it!"
"Father, just because Luis and Sheridan are married doesn't necessarily mean anything. She was married to Antonio for months and he never once bothered."
"Antonio is a fool, Julian. Luis is a cop, one who has never hidden the fact he believes us to be behind his fathers disappearance. We cannot have him snooping around and finding out the truth!"
Sighing, Julian closed his eyes. "So what do you propose we do?"
"Get rid of them both. Immediately."
********
Sheridan awoke the next morning, feeling for the first time, completely and utterly content. Lazily, she opened her eyes to see Luis sitting next to her, one hand gently laying on her stomach, his fingers spread out, a look of amazement on his handsome face.
"Well, your mom and dad are finally married, kiddo," He was saying, his voice low. "It took us awhile to get it right, but we did it. And we're going to have an amazing life, the three of us. We can't wait for you to get here, Ally."
With salty tears blurring her vision, Sheridan reached up to brush a piece of hair out of his face, her fingers gently tracing the contours of his cheek. He instinctively closed his eyes and leaned into her touch.
"How long have you been awake?" He asked in a husky whisper.
"Long enough to fall even more in love with you, if that's possible," She replied, pulling herself into a sitting position.
He opened his eyes at her words and gave her a sexy grin. "I fall more in love with you everyday, Sher."
Though his words touched her deeply, she scrunched up her nose. "Wow."
"Too cheesy?" He questioned with a grin and she nodded.
"Definitely."
Scooting up so he could envelope her in his arms, he whispered softly in her ear. "Cheesy at is, it's the truth. Every time I look into your eyes, I fall deeper in love with you."
"Ditto," Sheridan murmured, wrapping her arms around his neck and pulling him back down onto the bed with her.
********
Theresa was sitting with Fox and Little Ethan in the living room of Sheridan's cottage when the phone rang. Shooting him an apologetic look, she stood to answer it.
"Hello?"
"I think a congratulations is in order," Luis' happy voice came over the line, causing her face to light up like a Christmas tree.
"Oh, my God, is it?"
"It's official," Her brother chuckled.
Resisting the urge to jump up and down and ignoring Fox's questioning expression, Theresa let out a little squeal. "When? Where? I want to hear all about it!"
"Calm down, Resa," Luis scolded lightly. "We got married yesterday at this little church outside the city limits."
"That wasn't a description. Put Sheridan on, I want all the details," Theresa demanded.
Luis let out a laugh. "We'll give you the play by play when we get home, all right? I just wanted to call and let you know everything went through down here and make sure you're okay. Did you have someone come stay with you?"
Theresa glanced over to where Fox was sitting with her son and nodded, though her brother couldn't see her. "Yeah, Fox is here with us."
"Good. You have the number to the hotel just in case, right?"
"Yes, Luis," Theresa rolled her eyes at his 'big brother' tone. "When are you coming home?"
"We'll be home Sunday afternoon," Luis replied. "You'll be all right until then?"
"We'll be fine," Theresa affirmed. "You two have fun. You deserve it."
"Thanks, Theresa. Give Mama our love, will you?"
"Of course. We'll see you guys Sunday."
"Yeah. Bye, sis."
"Bye," Theresa hung up, turning to face Fox, who was still seated, confusion marring his features.
"Are you going to tell me what your brother and Aunt Sheridan are up to now?" He asked.
Hesitating briefly, Theresa shrugged and proceeded to tell him what was going on.
*******
The next couple of days seemed to fly by, much to the dismay of both Sheridan and Luis. The duo managed, even with their intense lovemaking schedule, to see a lot of the island that hey had missed on their last trip. As promised, they stayed as far away from boats as possible, but it didn't stop them from spending time in the glorious tropical sun. The night before they left, they joined the man who made it all possible, Harry Johnston and his wife Miranda, for dinner in the elegant dining room of the hotel. Sheridan and Miranda were pleasantly surprised to learn that they had attended the same boarding school in Europe for a brief period and the foursome had a grand time, already making plans to get together the next time the Johnstons were in Harmony. They retired to their room late that night and proceeded to take each other to heights never before experienced.
The next morning they woke late and had a quick brunch before quickly packing and heading off to the airport, not quite ready to face everyone back home, but faithful in being able to so, no as an united front.
Once they had boarded the plane and were in their seats, Luis took her hand into his, carefully examining the golden bands that now adorned the fourth finger of each of their left hands. It still was beyond unbelievable to him, that they were married. Not two weeks ago she'd still been his brothers wife and now she was his. If it had been different circumstances, he probably wouldn't have jumped so quickly, but this was Sheridan. Things with them were never simple and you never knew what was waiting around the bend to try and destroy them. They didn't have time to wait around for that - look what happened before. Besides, they'd wasted enough time already. And they had a baby on the way. He wasn't about to let his first born to be brought into the world out of wedlock.
"What's going on in that head of yours?" Sheridan's sweet voice cut through his thoughts.
Stealing a glance at his wife, he smiled. "Just thinking about how unreal this still seems."
At his admission, she too smiled. "I know. Every time I look at you, I have to pinch myself to make sure it's not a dream."
"It is a dream," Luis said quietly, gently pulling her closer. "It's a dream finally come true," He finished before capturing her lips in the sweetest of kisses.
"I can't argue with that," She agreed when they'd parted. "I just wish we didn't have to go home. My father and Julian are probably already plotting how to break us apart."
Luis' dark eyes flashed at the mention of Julian and Alistair. "They can plot all they want. We're married now, nothing can tear us apart."
Shaking her head, Sheridan snuggled into him, despite the arm rest between the two seats. "They're not going to give up. You know that."
"I know," He reluctantly conceded, kissing the top of her head. "But we've managed to overcome all their schemes before and we'll make it through whatever else they throw our way. We just got married, I'm not giving you up without one hell of a fight."
"Ditto," Sheridan replied with a yawn.
Luis refrained from responding, just put his arm around his wife and settled back for the flight home.
*******
Theresa was sitting on a bench in the gazebo when Gwen and Ethan came into view. Hopping to her feet, she plastered a big smile on her face and hurried towards them.
"Ethan. Gwen," She greeted.
Ethan returned her smile and greeting happily. "Theresa. Where's Little Ethan?"
"Oh, he's back at the cottage with Mama," She informed with a wave of her hand. "I was actually hoping I could talk to Gwen for a minute."
Upon hearing her name, Gwen's frown deepened as she narrowed her eyes at the other girl. "What do you want, Theresa?"
"Could we talk alone?" She asked, shooting an apologetic look at a surprised Ethan.
Sighing, she reluctantly nodded. "Ethan, I'll meet you back at the house, all right?"
"All right," Ethan said, leaning down to brush her lips with his own. "See you later, Theresa."
"Bye," She waved, her smile disappearing as he headed up the walk. Turning to Gwen, she crossed her arms. "I'm sure you're wondering what this is all about."
"Yes, I am. What could you possibly want to talk to me about?"
"Look," Theresa began, sitting back down on one of the stone benches. "I know we don't get along. But, as much as I hate to admit this, I need your help."
Gwen raised a finely shaped eyebrow as she sat down across from her arch nemesis. "What with?"
"I want to throw Sheridan and Luis a welcome home/congratulations party, but we only have a few hours and I can't do it alone."
"You can't get someone else to help?" Gwen asked.
"I already have," Theresa explained. "I want to keep this under wraps, so I'm only asking those who knew about them eloping. Fox and Hank are at the cottage, getting things in order and Mama's working on a wedding cake for them. But I still need help."
Sighing, Gwen ran things over in her head before reluctantly agreeing. "Okay, what can I do?"
*******
"Nervous?" Luis asked, his hand clasping hers as they drove through Harmony a few hours later, headed towards home.
"A little," Sheridan admitted.
Luis glanced over at her, offering an encouraging smile. "They can't hurt us anymore, Sher."
"I know. I just can't help feeling a little apprehensive."
"Let's not worry about them, all right? Let's focus on us finally being married and the coming of our little girl."
Sheridan nodded and smiled brightly at his words. "All right, Luis."
*******
It was twenty minutes later that Luis pulled up to the cottage, surprised to see the curtains tightly closed and the home looking nothing short of abandoned.
Inside, however, the place was anything but. Mulling around were all of their friends and family, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the newlyweds.
Hearing her brothers car, Theresa quickly shushed everyone and gathered everyone underneath the huge "Just Married" banner that she'd managed to scrounge up.
After a minute, a key could be heard in the lock and everyone grinned, ready to surprise Luis and Sheridan. Finally the front door swung open and ring on cue, the group shouted their congratulations to the stunned couple.
Luis' gaze swept across the room and he shook his head in amusement when he caught the mischievous smile on his sister's face. "What's all this?"
"Your wedding reception," Theresa explained, coming up to hug them both, still smiling at the look on Sheridan's face. "Congratulations, you two."
"You did all this?" Sheridan asked in awe, finally breaking her silence, staring at her sister-in-law.
Theresa nodded enthusiastically. "You can't get married and not have a reception," She rationalized.
"Thanks, Resa," Luis said, wrapping an arm around his wife's waist and pulling her towards the group of well-wishers.
******
"Told you you'd never get Luis, Bethie," Edna Wallace chuckled, poking her daughter as if to prove her point. "He and Sheridan are married, there's no hope for you now. Not that there was in the first place."
Beth turned to glare at her mother. "Shut up, Mother," she hissed. "This is just a minor set back. Luis will be mine."
"Um, hello!" Edna rolled her eyes heavenward. "They're married, Bethie. You've lost, accept it."
"No, I won't," Beth growled, a scowl set on he face. "I'll think of something. I always do."
"And they always blow up in your face," She reminded her in a low voice but broke into a smile as the two in question approached. "Luis, Sheridan, congratulations. I know you'll be happy for the rest of your lives."
"Thank you, Mrs. Wallace," Sheridan said gracefully.
"Yeah, thank you," Luis echoed. "Beth, we just wanted to thank you, for everything."
Beth, who managed to force an innocent expression, nodded. "You're welcome, Luis. Congratulations."
After acknowledging her, the two headed towards Gwen and Ethan, causing Beth to scowl again, shooting daggers at the new Mrs. Lopez Fitzgerald's back.
She was so intent on it, she didn't notice Sheridan glance back at her, frowning when she saw the unmistakable look of pure hatred on the other woman's face.
*******
"All right, you two," Theresa said as she came back in from the kitchen. "It's time for you to cut the cake."
A giggle escaped Sheridan's lips, causing Luis to glance down at her, an eyebrow raised, daring her.
"Bring it on," He announced with a twinkle in his eye.
"Mama?" Theresa called and Sheridan gasped as Pilar and Sam wheeled a large and intricate cake out from the kitchen. Her eyes filled with tears when she realized that it was the same design as the cake that was supposed to be served at their original wedding. Even the bridge and groom figurine that sat on top was the same.
"Oh, Pilar," She cried, her hand coming up to cover her mouth.
Pilar merely smiled and handed them a knife with a white satin ribbon wrapped around the handle. "Go on."
Smiling up at her husband, Sheridan stepped up the cake and Luis' arms came around her, his hands closing over hers as together they cut the first piece.
With matching impish grins, the two followed the tradition of feeding on another the first slice, as well as smashing some of the desert in each others faces. They then sealed it with a sweet, sugary kiss, prompting the crowd to burst into applause.
"I love you, Mrs. Lopez Fitzgerald," Luis whispered in her ear before catching her lips in another kiss.
"And I you," She returned, again pulling his mouth down to meet hers.
*******
To be continued....
Thank you for all your comments :) I appreciate it.
Chapter Two
Written by Shay
"Luis, buddy, you need to relax," Hank commented, coming up behind his life-long friend and giving him a good natured shove on the shoulder.
Luis' tense expression faded into a grin and he tore his eyes away from the clock he'd been staring at for the past three hours. "I can't help it. What if somehow Julian or Alistair found out --"
"Dude, chill out," Hank interrupted. "Julian and Alistair don't have a clue. And even if they found out now, there's no way they'd make it down here in time. You're getting married in an hour, Lo-Fitz."
At the mention of an hour, Luis broke out into a huge smile and patted his friend on the back. "You're right. But can you blame me?"
"Not in the least. And speaking of only having an hour, we should get to the church," Hank rationalized and Luis nodded his agreement.
After he'd left Sheridan earlier that day in their room, he'd set off to find the perfect local for their nuptials and had stumbled upon a tiny church tucked away in the heart of the island. After explaining their situation, the reluctant priest had agreed to marry them, even on such a short notice. It might not be the big wedding they had always dreamed of, but it would legally bind them together in the eyes of the law and of God.
******
"Are you sure this is the right way?" Sheridan asked nervously as Gwen navigated the rented vehicle towards their destination.
Taking her eyes off the road for a second, Gwen glanced over at her friend and gave her a reassuring smile. "Relax, Sher. Hank called while you were in the dressing room with directions. We'll be there in a few minutes."
Sheridan nodded and let her gaze wander to the world outside. They were in a residential area, which she found odd, but she trusted Luis indefinitely. She hoped they arrived at their destination soon, she wanted to see Luis, wanted to be pronounced his wife so nothing could ever come between them again. She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't realize when the car came to a stop. Only when Gwen's door slammed did she snap out of her reverie. Quickly exiting the vehicle, she gasped when she caught sight of where they were. Before her was a little church, something straight out of a movie, complete with the white fence going around the perimeter. Flowers bloomed all around and there was a tiny cemetery off to the side. The church itself was white, with large stained glass windows stretching from top to bottom. There was even a little steeple on top with a cross erected from it. Steps led up to the double doors and outside stood a man who looked very much like a bodyguard.
"I can't believe he did this," Sheridan whispered in awe.
"Oh come on, this is Luis we're talking about," Gwen commented, giving her a little push forward. "You better get in there or you're going to miss it."
Sheridan shot her a look, but began up the walk and steps towards the doors. As she reached them, the man gave her a tight smile.
"Ms. Crane?" He asked stiffly.
Somewhat confused, she nodded, exhaling loudly when he stepped aside and let them inside.
"What was that all about?" Gwen asked as they entered and the doors closed behind them.
"I have no idea," Sheridan replied with the same bewildered tone.
Gwen opened her mouth to speak, but was cut off when Hank came up from behind.
"Ah, you found it," He said as he approached, smiling brightly. "Sheridan, you look gorgeous."
Sheridan, who had already dressed at the hotel after their shopping trip, blushed. "Thank you, Hank. Is Luis --"
"Wearing a hole in the floor of the ushers dressing room? Yep," Hank grinned. "Gwen, it's good to see you again," He said, finally acknowledging the other woman.
Gwen smiled. "You, too."
Sheridan watched them with interest. Gwen had spent a good deal of their time out earlier talking and asking about Hank and she hadn't missed the looks that had passed between the two. She'd definitely have to get to the bottom of that when they got back to Harmony!
"Are you Sheridan?" A kind voice asked from behind and she whirled around to see an elderly man standing there.
"Yes."
At that, he smiled gently. "It is a pleasure to meet you, my child. I'm Father Stephen, I'll be marrying you and Mr. Lopez-Fitzgerald today."
"It's nice to meet you, Father," Sheridan said demurely. "I can't thank you enough for doing this. Especially on such a short notice."
The priest nodded. "Well, after hearing your story from your young man, there was no way I could not. We wouldn't want this little one to be born out of wedlock, now would we?" He finished, softly patting her stomach.
"No, we don't," Sheridan readily agreed.
"There is one final thing, of dire importance, that needs to be taken care of before we get things underway," He paused, pulling out a piece of paper and handing it to her. The marriage certificate. There had been one before of course, but that had become null and void when she married Antonio. Taking the paper and the offered pen, she more then happily signed her name underneath Luis' familiar scrawl. "Well then, let's get you married, shall we?"
*******
Luis nervously tugged at the collar of his suit, earning a grin from Hank, who stood beside him at the alter of the church. The ceremony was set to begin in about five minutes and he couldn't remember ever being so anxious!
Lanie Houston, an eccentric older woman who served as the church's organist slipped into the worship area, looking quite pleased. A few seconds later, Father Stephen appeared and made his way up to where the other two men stood.
"Your bride is just about ready," He relayed, causing a huge smile to spread across Luis' face. "We'll get started in just a few moments."
"I can't wait," Luis said, beaming.
"I think the feeling is mutual," Father Stephen acknowledged. "Do you have the rings?"
Hank nodded and pulled the velvet box that held the same rings that were to join them together prior to the explosion. Both had been cleaned and shined to a glittering gold and inscribed with words of forever.
"All right. And you have your vows ready?" He asked, turning to Luis, who nodded.
"Yes, Father."
"Very good. Then I suppose we're ready to begin."
Luis rubbed his hands together, determination settling over his features. "Let's get this show on the road."
*******
"Nervous?" Gwen asked, adjusting the veil the organist had found in the back room onto Sheridan's head, minding her carefully curled hair.
"Not in the least," Sheridan answered honestly, smiling as her daughter awoke inside her, ready to celebrate her parents happy day with them. "I've been ready for this day for so long, I'm too happy to be nervous."
"Well, all your dreams are about to come true," Gwen replied happily, sticking the last pin in to hold the veil in place. "All done."
"How do I look?"
Gwen paused, her eyes taking in the vision before her and she smiled brightly. "You look amazing. Luis is going to be beside himself."
Sheridan seemed to glow at her compliment, her blue eyes sparkling as they never had before. "Well that is the desired effect."
"I don't think you have to worry about that. You could go out in a garbage bag and Luis would still be left speechless," Gwen chuckled.
"I can't believe we're actually getting married," Sheridan sighed. "After all this time, we're finally going to be husband and wife."
"And nobody deserves it more," Gwen assured her with a small hug. "You two deserve all the happiness in the world."
"Stop," Sheridan giggled, wiping a tear from her eye. "Or you'll ruin all my makeup before I even make it down the aisle."
"I mean it, Sheridan. After everything you've been through, there are no two people more deserving of this then you."
"Thank you," She murmured with teary eyes.
It was then that Lanie poked her head into the room with a grin. "It's time."
With a deep breath and a huge smile, Sheridan turned towards the doors. "Let's do this."
*******
Luis smiled politely as Gwen made her way down the aisle as Sheridan's maid of honor, but there was only one woman he was interested in seeing. It seemed like forever, but Gwen finally reached the alter and gave his hand a gentle squeeze before stepping off to the side. There was a pause as Lanie changed the sheet music in front of her and then Luis' whole world stopped.
She entered the room in an off white ankle length dress, a pair of matching heeled sandals upon her feet. There was a shoulder length veil on top of her curly blonde hair and he could see the intensity of her blue eyes from where he stood. A smile stretched from ear to ear and his heart began to beat faster as her gaze collided with his.
Her walk to the alter was made in slow, deliberate steps and her smile only grew larger as she neared. Luis stood next to Hank, his face alight in utter happiness as he waited for her to join him.
When she finally reached him, his hand curled around hers and he brought her as close to his side as possible. The priest smiled down at them, satisfied now with his decision to wed these two in holy matrimony. Their love illuminated from every pore and seemed to make everything around them glow. Yes, he was indeed doing the right thing.
*******
Luis barely heard a word that was said, as he was too enthralled with the beauty beside him. It wasn't until the priest urged him to say the words he'd written that he came back to earth.
Taking both of Sheridan's hands, he held her gaze and took a deep breath.
"I've never been a man great with words, but when I sat down to write this, they just seemed to pour out. It's what you do to me, you make me a better person. You complete me, Sheridan, in a way I never knew was possible. You make everything, no matter how dull and dark, seem bright again. I never honestly believed I'd one day stand here, pledging to spend the rest of my life with someone, but that all changed when you came crashing into my world." He paused, earning a light laugh from his bride. "We've been through more in the past few years then most go through their entire lives and still, we're both standing here, before God, vowing to love and cherish each other for all eternity. I'm not a big believer in all things fate, but I do know that you are my destiny. You are my soul mate and I swear to you today that I'm going to spend everyday of the rest of our lives together letting you know just how much I love you."
When he finished, Sheridan's face was still smiling, but she also had tears running down her face in torrents. When the priest motioned for her to say hers, she reluctantly let go of one of his hands to wipe away some of her tears. Once her hand was again tucked within his, she began.
"There are so many things that I want to say, but I don't have the words to say them. I want to tell you how much you mean to me, but there will never be enough ways for me to do so. I want to tell you how safe you make me feel, but there aren't adequate words to make you understand. I want to tell you how much I cherish you, how you can brighten my world with just a smile, but I'm afraid if I try, I'll never get my point across completely. So instead, I'll thank you. Thank you for everything you've given me, thank you for being who you are, for never deserting me, even when things were at their worst. But above all else, thank you for saving me, for loving me. And I know they aren't much, but the only words I could find that come close to expressing what I've been trying to say is I love you. I love you more then anything in the world and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you."
By the end of her speech, Luis' hands were gripping hers so tight, she almost thought circulation was going to be cut off, but that thought flew out of the window as her blue eyes once again met his. Those dark orbs were so full of emotion it was almost as if somebody has physically struck her. What made her breath catch, however, was the appearance of a few glistening drops in the corner of his eyes.
The rest of the ceremony was a blur as they merely went through the motions. There was the fumbling with the rings and the repeating of the words that would join them together, forever, but then were only attune to each other. It wasn't until Father Stephen pronounced them husband and wife did either of them snap out of it. With indescribable joy, Luis pulled her to him and kissed her with every fiber of his being, which she returned whole-heartedly. It was the kiss that finally put their past to rest and sealed their fate as Mr. and Mrs. Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald.
*******
"I can't believe we're actually married," Sheridan sighed happily, leaning her head against Luis' chest as they danced their first dance a little later that night.
"It does seem a little unbelievable, doesn't it?" Luis murmured, pulling her closer as the lyrics to "Imagine" floated through the room.
Sheridan didn't respond with words, but he felt her head nod against him. They were at some fancy restaurant Gwen had insisted on treating them to, as some semblance of a reception.
The rest of the dance was done in silence, both of them quite content to just be in one anothers arms, relishing in the knowledge that they were now bound to each other for life. When the last notes of the song echoed through the speakers, Luis pulled away, his face full of love and utter happiness.
"I love you," He whispered, cupping her face in his hand.
"I love you, too," She whispered back tearfully, smiling as his lips descended onto hers, making the rest of the world disappear.
*******
"Luis, put me down!" Sheridan giggled later that night when Luis swept her up in his arms outside their hotel room.
"Can't. I'm carrying you over the threshold," He grinned, finally managing to unlock the door and push it open with his foot. Somehow he got them inside the darkened room without injury and set her on her feet, his arms going around her waist and pulling her to him as he devoured her mouth with his.
"Mmmm," Was Sheridan's first coherent thought as he moved lower to the exposed skin of her neck. A low moan escaped her being when his hand traveled up her back and began to slowly pull the zipper of her dress down.
"God, you're beautiful," He muttered, backing up just the slightest so he could shrug out of his jacket. A shiver ran down her spine as he gently caressed her cheek, raining sweet velvet kisses on her eyelids, on her cheeks, her nose, her lips.
The silver moonlight shone through the open window, illuminating him in a way she had never seen before. With a full heart and trembling hands, she quickly began to unbutton his shirt, placing soft sensual kisses as each section of skin became exposed. Stopping her slow torture, she raised her eyes to meet his blazing gaze, unable to grasp the fact that he was her husband. Hers. Forever. The only thing she had ever wanted and it was finally hers. Letting her hands move up his now bare chest and into his soft hair, she leaned in, as if to kiss him and whispered. "Make me your wife, Luis. Make love to me."
He needed no further prompting as he swept her off her feet and over to the bed, where he did just that.
*******
Meanwhile, back in Harmony, Julian Crane was sitting in his office, a glass full of brandy in one hand and a desolate look upon his face. In the background, a soft female voice sang, the same song playing repeatedly as he attempted to drown his sorrows.
Suddenly the phone on the large mahogany desk rang and he glared at the intrusive object with disdain. Downing the rest of the amber liquid, he slowly rose and made his way to where the damnable thing was still ringing.
"Julian Crane," He answered in a somber, monotone voice.
"Julian, what the hell took you so long?" His father barked over the speaker phone. "And turn off that insipid music. I don't need you blubbering over Eve Russell when we've got a serious problem on our hands."
Resisting the urge to hang up on the old man, Julian reluctantly flipping the stereo off. "What problem is that, Father?"
"I'm talking about your sister and that damn Lopez-Fitzgerald," Alistair stated loudly, causing his son to sigh and drop down into the leather chair behind the desk.
"What's Sheridan done now, Father?" He asked, his tone bored.
"I just received word that your sister and Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald were married down in Bermuda earlier today."
Surprise lit up Julian's face as he poured himself another generous helping of brandy. "Married? Surely not, Father. She's still married to that other one. Even Sheridan isn't stupid enough to marry two men at once."
"Julian, you imbecile," Alistair's voice boomed. "If you kept tabs on her like you're supposed to, you'd know that the annulment was final on that yesterday!"
"She certainly didn't waste any time," He commented, shaking his head. "I still don't see the problem, Father."
"The problem is the same problem we've had for years! Luis now has access to us and we can not allow it!"
"Father, just because Luis and Sheridan are married doesn't necessarily mean anything. She was married to Antonio for months and he never once bothered."
"Antonio is a fool, Julian. Luis is a cop, one who has never hidden the fact he believes us to be behind his fathers disappearance. We cannot have him snooping around and finding out the truth!"
Sighing, Julian closed his eyes. "So what do you propose we do?"
"Get rid of them both. Immediately."
********
Sheridan awoke the next morning, feeling for the first time, completely and utterly content. Lazily, she opened her eyes to see Luis sitting next to her, one hand gently laying on her stomach, his fingers spread out, a look of amazement on his handsome face.
"Well, your mom and dad are finally married, kiddo," He was saying, his voice low. "It took us awhile to get it right, but we did it. And we're going to have an amazing life, the three of us. We can't wait for you to get here, Ally."
With salty tears blurring her vision, Sheridan reached up to brush a piece of hair out of his face, her fingers gently tracing the contours of his cheek. He instinctively closed his eyes and leaned into her touch.
"How long have you been awake?" He asked in a husky whisper.
"Long enough to fall even more in love with you, if that's possible," She replied, pulling herself into a sitting position.
He opened his eyes at her words and gave her a sexy grin. "I fall more in love with you everyday, Sher."
Though his words touched her deeply, she scrunched up her nose. "Wow."
"Too cheesy?" He questioned with a grin and she nodded.
"Definitely."
Scooting up so he could envelope her in his arms, he whispered softly in her ear. "Cheesy at is, it's the truth. Every time I look into your eyes, I fall deeper in love with you."
"Ditto," Sheridan murmured, wrapping her arms around his neck and pulling him back down onto the bed with her.
********
Theresa was sitting with Fox and Little Ethan in the living room of Sheridan's cottage when the phone rang. Shooting him an apologetic look, she stood to answer it.
"Hello?"
"I think a congratulations is in order," Luis' happy voice came over the line, causing her face to light up like a Christmas tree.
"Oh, my God, is it?"
"It's official," Her brother chuckled.
Resisting the urge to jump up and down and ignoring Fox's questioning expression, Theresa let out a little squeal. "When? Where? I want to hear all about it!"
"Calm down, Resa," Luis scolded lightly. "We got married yesterday at this little church outside the city limits."
"That wasn't a description. Put Sheridan on, I want all the details," Theresa demanded.
Luis let out a laugh. "We'll give you the play by play when we get home, all right? I just wanted to call and let you know everything went through down here and make sure you're okay. Did you have someone come stay with you?"
Theresa glanced over to where Fox was sitting with her son and nodded, though her brother couldn't see her. "Yeah, Fox is here with us."
"Good. You have the number to the hotel just in case, right?"
"Yes, Luis," Theresa rolled her eyes at his 'big brother' tone. "When are you coming home?"
"We'll be home Sunday afternoon," Luis replied. "You'll be all right until then?"
"We'll be fine," Theresa affirmed. "You two have fun. You deserve it."
"Thanks, Theresa. Give Mama our love, will you?"
"Of course. We'll see you guys Sunday."
"Yeah. Bye, sis."
"Bye," Theresa hung up, turning to face Fox, who was still seated, confusion marring his features.
"Are you going to tell me what your brother and Aunt Sheridan are up to now?" He asked.
Hesitating briefly, Theresa shrugged and proceeded to tell him what was going on.
*******
The next couple of days seemed to fly by, much to the dismay of both Sheridan and Luis. The duo managed, even with their intense lovemaking schedule, to see a lot of the island that hey had missed on their last trip. As promised, they stayed as far away from boats as possible, but it didn't stop them from spending time in the glorious tropical sun. The night before they left, they joined the man who made it all possible, Harry Johnston and his wife Miranda, for dinner in the elegant dining room of the hotel. Sheridan and Miranda were pleasantly surprised to learn that they had attended the same boarding school in Europe for a brief period and the foursome had a grand time, already making plans to get together the next time the Johnstons were in Harmony. They retired to their room late that night and proceeded to take each other to heights never before experienced.
The next morning they woke late and had a quick brunch before quickly packing and heading off to the airport, not quite ready to face everyone back home, but faithful in being able to so, no as an united front.
Once they had boarded the plane and were in their seats, Luis took her hand into his, carefully examining the golden bands that now adorned the fourth finger of each of their left hands. It still was beyond unbelievable to him, that they were married. Not two weeks ago she'd still been his brothers wife and now she was his. If it had been different circumstances, he probably wouldn't have jumped so quickly, but this was Sheridan. Things with them were never simple and you never knew what was waiting around the bend to try and destroy them. They didn't have time to wait around for that - look what happened before. Besides, they'd wasted enough time already. And they had a baby on the way. He wasn't about to let his first born to be brought into the world out of wedlock.
"What's going on in that head of yours?" Sheridan's sweet voice cut through his thoughts.
Stealing a glance at his wife, he smiled. "Just thinking about how unreal this still seems."
At his admission, she too smiled. "I know. Every time I look at you, I have to pinch myself to make sure it's not a dream."
"It is a dream," Luis said quietly, gently pulling her closer. "It's a dream finally come true," He finished before capturing her lips in the sweetest of kisses.
"I can't argue with that," She agreed when they'd parted. "I just wish we didn't have to go home. My father and Julian are probably already plotting how to break us apart."
Luis' dark eyes flashed at the mention of Julian and Alistair. "They can plot all they want. We're married now, nothing can tear us apart."
Shaking her head, Sheridan snuggled into him, despite the arm rest between the two seats. "They're not going to give up. You know that."
"I know," He reluctantly conceded, kissing the top of her head. "But we've managed to overcome all their schemes before and we'll make it through whatever else they throw our way. We just got married, I'm not giving you up without one hell of a fight."
"Ditto," Sheridan replied with a yawn.
Luis refrained from responding, just put his arm around his wife and settled back for the flight home.
*******
Theresa was sitting on a bench in the gazebo when Gwen and Ethan came into view. Hopping to her feet, she plastered a big smile on her face and hurried towards them.
"Ethan. Gwen," She greeted.
Ethan returned her smile and greeting happily. "Theresa. Where's Little Ethan?"
"Oh, he's back at the cottage with Mama," She informed with a wave of her hand. "I was actually hoping I could talk to Gwen for a minute."
Upon hearing her name, Gwen's frown deepened as she narrowed her eyes at the other girl. "What do you want, Theresa?"
"Could we talk alone?" She asked, shooting an apologetic look at a surprised Ethan.
Sighing, she reluctantly nodded. "Ethan, I'll meet you back at the house, all right?"
"All right," Ethan said, leaning down to brush her lips with his own. "See you later, Theresa."
"Bye," She waved, her smile disappearing as he headed up the walk. Turning to Gwen, she crossed her arms. "I'm sure you're wondering what this is all about."
"Yes, I am. What could you possibly want to talk to me about?"
"Look," Theresa began, sitting back down on one of the stone benches. "I know we don't get along. But, as much as I hate to admit this, I need your help."
Gwen raised a finely shaped eyebrow as she sat down across from her arch nemesis. "What with?"
"I want to throw Sheridan and Luis a welcome home/congratulations party, but we only have a few hours and I can't do it alone."
"You can't get someone else to help?" Gwen asked.
"I already have," Theresa explained. "I want to keep this under wraps, so I'm only asking those who knew about them eloping. Fox and Hank are at the cottage, getting things in order and Mama's working on a wedding cake for them. But I still need help."
Sighing, Gwen ran things over in her head before reluctantly agreeing. "Okay, what can I do?"
*******
"Nervous?" Luis asked, his hand clasping hers as they drove through Harmony a few hours later, headed towards home.
"A little," Sheridan admitted.
Luis glanced over at her, offering an encouraging smile. "They can't hurt us anymore, Sher."
"I know. I just can't help feeling a little apprehensive."
"Let's not worry about them, all right? Let's focus on us finally being married and the coming of our little girl."
Sheridan nodded and smiled brightly at his words. "All right, Luis."
*******
It was twenty minutes later that Luis pulled up to the cottage, surprised to see the curtains tightly closed and the home looking nothing short of abandoned.
Inside, however, the place was anything but. Mulling around were all of their friends and family, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the newlyweds.
Hearing her brothers car, Theresa quickly shushed everyone and gathered everyone underneath the huge "Just Married" banner that she'd managed to scrounge up.
After a minute, a key could be heard in the lock and everyone grinned, ready to surprise Luis and Sheridan. Finally the front door swung open and ring on cue, the group shouted their congratulations to the stunned couple.
Luis' gaze swept across the room and he shook his head in amusement when he caught the mischievous smile on his sister's face. "What's all this?"
"Your wedding reception," Theresa explained, coming up to hug them both, still smiling at the look on Sheridan's face. "Congratulations, you two."
"You did all this?" Sheridan asked in awe, finally breaking her silence, staring at her sister-in-law.
Theresa nodded enthusiastically. "You can't get married and not have a reception," She rationalized.
"Thanks, Resa," Luis said, wrapping an arm around his wife's waist and pulling her towards the group of well-wishers.
******
"Told you you'd never get Luis, Bethie," Edna Wallace chuckled, poking her daughter as if to prove her point. "He and Sheridan are married, there's no hope for you now. Not that there was in the first place."
Beth turned to glare at her mother. "Shut up, Mother," she hissed. "This is just a minor set back. Luis will be mine."
"Um, hello!" Edna rolled her eyes heavenward. "They're married, Bethie. You've lost, accept it."
"No, I won't," Beth growled, a scowl set on he face. "I'll think of something. I always do."
"And they always blow up in your face," She reminded her in a low voice but broke into a smile as the two in question approached. "Luis, Sheridan, congratulations. I know you'll be happy for the rest of your lives."
"Thank you, Mrs. Wallace," Sheridan said gracefully.
"Yeah, thank you," Luis echoed. "Beth, we just wanted to thank you, for everything."
Beth, who managed to force an innocent expression, nodded. "You're welcome, Luis. Congratulations."
After acknowledging her, the two headed towards Gwen and Ethan, causing Beth to scowl again, shooting daggers at the new Mrs. Lopez Fitzgerald's back.
She was so intent on it, she didn't notice Sheridan glance back at her, frowning when she saw the unmistakable look of pure hatred on the other woman's face.
*******
"All right, you two," Theresa said as she came back in from the kitchen. "It's time for you to cut the cake."
A giggle escaped Sheridan's lips, causing Luis to glance down at her, an eyebrow raised, daring her.
"Bring it on," He announced with a twinkle in his eye.
"Mama?" Theresa called and Sheridan gasped as Pilar and Sam wheeled a large and intricate cake out from the kitchen. Her eyes filled with tears when she realized that it was the same design as the cake that was supposed to be served at their original wedding. Even the bridge and groom figurine that sat on top was the same.
"Oh, Pilar," She cried, her hand coming up to cover her mouth.
Pilar merely smiled and handed them a knife with a white satin ribbon wrapped around the handle. "Go on."
Smiling up at her husband, Sheridan stepped up the cake and Luis' arms came around her, his hands closing over hers as together they cut the first piece.
With matching impish grins, the two followed the tradition of feeding on another the first slice, as well as smashing some of the desert in each others faces. They then sealed it with a sweet, sugary kiss, prompting the crowd to burst into applause.
"I love you, Mrs. Lopez Fitzgerald," Luis whispered in her ear before catching her lips in another kiss.
"And I you," She returned, again pulling his mouth down to meet hers.
*******
To be continued....