1. Zorro Don Diego

Disclaimer :Zorro nor any characters in this show belongs to me. This is just for fun, for all the fans of Zorro out there. This is a rewrite of part of the episode Zorro takes a dare.

I had gave the soldiers the slip, as I ran back up stairs going into my room before anybody saw me. Going into my room, I shut the door behind me, knowing an open door could cause some of the soldiers to wonder, since my counterpart Don Diego was not at home this night. Rushing over, I pushed the little hidden button that allow part of the wall to slid open showing my secret passage way in and out of my house. Entering, I am surprised at first that the Excellency was there staring me in the face with a sword at hand. Knowing in order to keep people from finding out who I was, I was in need to fight his Excellency. Closing the passage way, kept from anybody coming in and spoiling our little fun. The fight started great, with me having the upper hand, but somehow he was able to catch me off guard. His sword fighting was great, but mine was greater. Our swords clashed against each other, making the noises of steel hitting together. My mine off for a slight second of wondering how Bernardo was since that was who the Excellency was here for. His Excellency must had sensed my distance as he took it as advantage, as his sword drew blood from a cut on my left arm. Knowing it was just a scratch, it brought me back to my fight.

Although, I knew this was not going to end well as all we could do was move back in forth. I was so used to fights being out in the open, it became different as we was stuck in this small room, with hardly any room to move. His sword again moved bringing blood again, although on my right arm this time, then following some cuts of both my legs. Being taught to never give up, I knew I could not give up, but the cuts he had been placing on me, was loosing some blood, as my vision blurred. Cursing under my breath, I knew this could in fact be the down fall to Zorro. Not knowing how, I ended up facing the opposite way, as the next thing I knew, I felt the cold steel of his sword come across my back, making a deep long gash. I gritted my teeth against the pain, falling to my knees onto my stomach. I looked up seeing that the Excellency knew he had me right where he want me, as he moved to the door opening the secret passage way, going to tell the others. After I watched him leave, I tried slowly moving to the door trying to close it, but could not find the strength in myself.

As if sensing my pain, Bernardo rushed up the secret stairs, saw me, looked at the open door, and then rushed to my side. I told him that his Excellency found the secret passage way, and had done this to me, as he was going to go tell the others about me. Bernardo's face became angry, as he rushed out the opening and I heard a shot as Bernardo came back in saying, His Excellency was dead, being shot. Closing the door, kept from people coming in to find Zorro injured. The pain was almost fighting to over take me, but I knew Bernardo had to get me onto the bed down in the chamber to stop my bleeding. Getting me to my feet, was easier said then done, as Bernardo placed my right arm over his head, lifting me, almost with none of my help. Slowly we walked down a few flight of stairs, down into the cave that held my black horse, and some medical supplies.

I had Bernardo first remove my mask, and cape, then tearing the remains of my shirt off, as I was much to weak to remove them my self. Bernardo took care of my small cuts first, and then all his attention went to the long deep cut, I had on my back. I knew by the way I felt, it would take a while to heal. Bernardo took some stitches, and needle, as I watched him thread them, before moving. Bernardo helped me lay down onto a little colt we had built down there, in case of an emergency. Handing a bottle of wine to me, I pushed it away, not really thirsty, plus just wanting this over with. Before starting, I felt liquid pour onto my skin, making me tense, as it burned like fire. Looking up at Bernardo's face, I could see that he didn't want to cause me any pain. Telling him, that I be fine, he started as I could feel every little stitch, pulling the wound back shut. My vision started to blur again, as I tried to focus my eyes, but the pain over took my whole body. Keeping my eyes shut, I figured it best, then trying to focus. Finally, I let out a breath I didn't know I had been holding in, as Bernardo finished with the last stitch.

I must had passed out, as my vision went black, as next thing I knew, I awoke in my room. My father was sitting in a chair, next to me as Bernardo was sleeping in the chair near the fireplace. I tried to sit up, but was reminded of my injures as it brought pain back to my mind. Sensing my pain, my father looked over, and raised his hand, telling me to not move, or I could end up opening my wound. Figuring it was a smart idea, I did what I was told, laying back down. The next few weeks were boring, as my father plus Bernardo made sure I was to stay in bed. Finally after the wound had healed, I was back on my feet, practicing fencing, getting back into my routine of Zorro.

	2. Bernardo

Wondering why the soldiers where there for me, I ran into the kitchen going into the secret chamber. Knowing that Don Diego aka Zorro was already dressed and read to fight off the guards. Going further into the secret passageway, I watched through a little hole as Zorro was fighting the guards. As he ran out of the room, I stayed watching until, I felt a reason to go up to the passage way into Diego's room. As I came up the stairs, I was shocked to see my best friend Diego on the ground beside the door going into his room was wide open. Rushing to his side, Diego informed me that the Excellency had found the hideout and was going to tell everyone. Knowing I had to do something, my face turned angry as I rushed into his room onto the balcony, where I saw his Excellency get shot. Returning to Diego's side, I used my hands to tell him that he was dead, since I could not speak. Knowing I had to take care of his wounds, I helped Diego to his feet, as we slowly walked down to where his horse was, as we had all the supplies there. I obeyed him as I removed his mask, plus cape, laying him down onto the colt, seeing as he was already to weak to do so. Tearing his shirt off, I gasped at his cuts especially the long one on his back. Knowing it would help the pain, I handed Diego a bottle of wine but he pushed it away. Diego looked up at me knowing I didn't wanna cause him pain. His body tensed up as I poured liquid onto his wounds. Fixing his small cuts, I moved on to stitch up his long cut pulling his skin back together. I watched as the pain was to much for Diego, as he passed out. Diego father helped me get his son up into his bed, as the next couple weeks, we made him stay in bed. Finally he was able to get better, as he was able to become Zorro again.

End file.

Zorro Takes A Dare by sting12


1. Chapter 1

**Scared**

Chapter 1

Diego had offered to join Victoria on her way to Santa Paula where she wanted to go to the bank. It gave him the opportunity to spend some time with the woman he loved.

The attack from the bandits came as a surprise. "We need only the girl," he heard them say. "She will tell us the identity of Zorro after we had some fun with her."

"Only over my dead body," Diego challenged them in a controlled voice. Diego cursed himself for not having come as Zorro. Then he would have had his sword with him. He grabbed the whip from the wagon and pulled three bandits from their feet. From one of the men he drew a sword after he had knocked him out.

Afterwards Victoria couldn't tell anymore what had happened. The men had threatened her and Diego had fought with surprising agility. He nearly managed to defeat them all, but then there was a shot from behind.

"Victoria," he had cried out and she had seen the look in his eyes before he fell to the ground.

Victoria had screamed as he went down. She had grabbed a pistol from the ground and without aiming she had shot at the men. She hadn't hit them but a little later Mendoza and his men had arrived. They had been patrolling in the area and come to their rescue when they heard the shooting. The soldiers had arrested the fleeing bandits and Mendoza had taken care of the rest.

When Mendoza arranged for Diego to be taken to the hacienda, she hadn't been able to say anything. While the doctor treated Diego, Alejandro had asked her what had happened.

"Zorro, he didn't come," she cried, pulling at her hair, "Zorro didn't come." Alejandro realized that she was under shock. He insisted she stayed at the hacienda though she wanted to return to the tavern. "Zorro will come to the tavern to see if I'm alright, won't he?" she sobbed, covering her face with her hands.

"Victoria, you're under shock, you can't return to the tavern in your state. But I'm sure Zorro will find a way to see you, no matter where you are."

Alejandro couldn't understand why she was so obsessed with seeing Zorro when it was Diego who was severely injured.

But how could he understand when he hadn't seen Diego fighting for her. She clung to the idea that Diego wasn't Zorro. It just couldn't be. If Zorro was someone else, it would mean that he was safe and that the man she loved so deeply wasn't on the verge of dying in the room next door, because he had saved her life. But she had seen his eyes when she had tried to stop the bleeding while he was lying in her lap soaking her skirt with his blood. She'd never forget the way he had looked at her. But it couldn't be. He couldn't be dying. Not him. She loved him and she couldn't live without him.

A glass was pressed into her shaking hands and the doctor told her to drink the bitter tasting medicine. She didn't care at all and without resistance she let a maid take care of her. The maid stripped her of her blood soaked clothes, washed her and put her to bed. She was already asleep from the potion when the doctor looked for her again a little later.

Alejandro stayed at the side of his son's bed, praying for his life. Diego had lost a lot of blood and the doctor had done all he could, but he stayed at the hacienda to check on his patient's condition and change the dressings. The shot itself had missed vital organs, but the loss of blood could kill him. Fortunately his patient was in a better physical condition then most. There was still hope that he might survive.

Z Z Z

It was a lonely night for Alejandro while he kept vigil over his son. From what he heard from Mendoza, one of the bandits had confessed that they wanted to kidnap Victoria and when Diego had started to defend themselves, he had been shot.

"Diego, my son, how could that happen to you? When you're never involved in a fight?"

Alejandro didn't understand what had happened. Victoria hadn't been able to tell much. He had never seen her in such a state before. The events had shocked her utterly and the doctor had thought it best to have her put to bed with a sleeping potion.

The next morning she appeared to be calm again, asking him about Diego and when she heard that there wasn't any change, she showed no emotion. Alejandro wanted her to stay and recover, but she insisted on returning to the tavern.

	2. Chapter 2

Chapter 2

At the tavern she tried to concentrate on her work, but her helpers soon noticed that she hadn't overcome the shock from the events yet. She was lost in thoughts and when Pilar entered the kitchen unnoticed by her, she frightened and dropped the dishes. Shaking she stared at the broken fragments on the floor without making any move to pick them up.

Everything in the kitchen reminded her of Zorro and the times he had come to see her. She wanted him to visit her right now and kiss her, even for a brief moment. Then she would know that he was alright and not close to death in his bed.

At siesta time she couldn't stand it any longer. She needed to see Diego, how he was doing and she needed proof that he was really Zorro. Before she left for the de la Vega hacienda, she went up to her room and packed the two things that bound her closely to Zorro, the engagement ring and the mask he had given her.

"Victoria," Alejandro was surprised to have her come back so soon.

"How is Diego? I'm sorry, Don Alejandro if you got the impression that I don't care, but I do care." Alejandro noticed her shaking hands. "If you need someone to sit by his bed and relieve you, I'm here."

"That's really nice of you, Victoria. I could use some sleep in my own bed, after sitting in this chair most of the night. Felipe has taken his turn and I have sent him off to bed."

"How is Diego?" Victoria repeated anxiously, trying to hide her state by keeping her hands behind her back.

"He's very weak from his loss of blood. The doctor isn't sure he will make it." Alejandro was depressed.

"Has he been awake?"

"From time to time he opened his eyes and said something unintelligible. I'm not sure if he was really conscious or not. I know you were very upset yesterday, Victoria, but can you tell me today what happened during the attack?"

Victoria searched for words and when she thought of the fight, she began to relive the nightmare again. How Diego had fought the men, making her realize that he was the man she loved. And in the moment she had finally found him, he had been shot and now she was going to lose him and her best friend at the same time.

"Everything happened so fast, Don Alejandro, I'm sorry," Victoria stumbled over the words and began to cry.

"I'm sorry, Victoria, I didn't want to upset you again, I only want to understand how he got shot." Alejandro realized that it was of no use to ask Victoria anything about the incident. "Do you really feel good enough to take a vigil at Diego's side?" He was concerned about her.

"It's alright, Don Alejandro, it will help me relax," she lied. "I need to do something and I want to help."

Alejandro was inclined to believe her and left her at Diego's side while she started to moisten his dry lips with a wet cloth. As soon as Alejandro had left her alone, she pulled the black mask out of her bag and unfolded it. She laid it over his face, just the way Zorro used to wear his mask. Standing up, she looked down at his partly covered face. There was no mistake when she looked at him. He featured the same jaw line as Zorro and his mouth was the same too. She didn't need him to open his eyes and look into his blue ones to be absolutely sure who he was. He was Zorro.

Retrieving the mask from his face she put it back in her bag and looked at her finger where she wore her engagement ring. She clasped his hand in a tight grip and tried to keep her tears at bay. "Please," she whispered, "please don't die. You can't leave me alone. You gave me a promise that we'd be married some day. Please, I love you." Holding his hand to her breast she began to cry wetting his fingers with her tears.

But all her praying didn't change a thing. The beating of his heart was still fast and irregular while he was breathing quickly with only shallow intakes.

How long could he survive that until all power left his body? All she could do was to make him sip small amounts of water and wait by his side.

Alejandro found her dozing in the chair while holding Diego's hand in her lap when he came into the room to change places with her.

Alejandro touched her slightly at the shoulder and she looked at him bleary-eyed. "How is he, Victoria?"

"Still the same, fighting for his life." She looked at his unconscious form and wished for him to wake up. Just to have him open his eyes and look at her again. To see the love in his eyes. How could he still love her, after all the things she said to him when she compared him to Zorro. No wonder he had been afraid to remove his mask.

"Victoria, you should take some rest too," Alejandro looked at her concerned. "You're still very pale and I don't think you have fully recovered from yesterday."

"I'm fine," she protested. But then she threw herself in his arms. "He will be alright, won't he?" Alejandro put an arm around her, offering her some comfort. "It's not sure yet, Victoria." He ran with his fingers through his hair. "I still can't understand how it happened. Diego was never involved in any fighting, he should have known that he didn't have a chance against those bandits. Why did he even try?" The worry for his only son had engraved deep lines into his face.

Victoria stared at him, realizing that his father didn't know. She had somehow assumed that Zorro had someone who helped him and thought that it must be his father, but he wasn't.

Had Diego kept the secret to himself, taking it upon him all alone, enduring all the hurtful remarks from everyone? The prospect made it even worse.

She put her hands in her face to hide her tears before she ran out of the room. She hadn't no idea how she could cope with it and wandered aimlessly around, until she stopped in the garden of the hacienda.

She unfolded the mask from her bag again and touched the soft cloth. The same satin cloth as his shirt that she had felt under her hands each time he had taken her in his arms and kissed her.

She would never forget the evening they had shared their first kiss. She had recovered enough from being shot to walk around and then he had been standing there, unnoticed by her at first. He had suggested her to marry Diego, but she hadn't understood. Instead she had thrown herself in his arms and they had kissed until he had reluctantly let her go because his father had been calling for him. Later she had found his mask at the wall. Why hadn't she made the connection earlier?

Diego had told her once that he loved a woman who was in love with another man. Was that how he perceived it? That she only loved the legend and not the man? How had he managed to play the double role for such a long time?

Putting her fingers through the eye holes in the mask she remembered his blue eyes who had always shown his feelings for her so vividly. Through his eyes she had looked into his soul and she knew now that he had hidden much more of himself when he hadn't worn a black mask.

She didn't know how long she had stayed there in the garden. "Victoria, Victoria?" Alejandro was calling for her. Coming out of her thoughts, she quickly put back the mask and she also remembered to take off the ring she had worn while keeping vigil. Unintentionally the stone was turned to the inside so Alejandro couldn't have recognized it earlier.

"Ah, there you are." Alejandro spotted her on a bench in the shades. "The doctor just checked on Diego and he told me that he has improved a little. So there is hope yet that he will make it."

"Thank you, Don Alejandro, for telling me." Victoria managed a small smile. So there was hope, but hope wasn't enough. He could still die. She wouldn't give in to hope until she knew for sure.

"Do you want to come in, Victoria? It's been some time since you had something to eat."

"I'm not hungry, Don Alejandro," she replied, but nonetheless she followed him inside.

Alejandro looked at her pale blank face. He had hoped she'd be happy to hear the news, but she showed no emotion. If he hadn't seen her tears earlier, he'd think she didn't care. How could she stay so emotionless?

Victoria went to Diego's room to look for him. Though it wasn't much, there was a slight change to be seen. His breathing seemed to be slower and deeper. "Please, wake up," she whispered, "don't leave me!" She caressed his cheek that felt unusual cold to her touch.

On Alejandro's insistence she stayed for dinner, but it was a quiet meal. Neither Victoria nor Alejandro were in the mood to talk much when their thoughts were with Diego and Felipe was at Diego's side. Victoria barely managed to eat the soup while she looked at the empty seat where Diego used to sit at dinner. Everything around her reminded her of Diego and without his presence she felt empty inside. Some drops of tomato soup on the table-cloth brought back the image of Diego's blood soaking his white shirt and how she had tried to stop the bleeding.

Someone took the spoon out of her shaking hand and put it back on the plate. When she looked up she saw Alejandro standing beside her chair.

"It's alright, Victoria," Alejandro said gently, " You're still under shock."

"I'm sorry," she cried, "there was so much blood. It was so terrible. I can't eat anymore. I'd rather go to bed if you excuse me."

"Do you need another potion to help you sleep?"

"Thank you, Don Alejandro. I'll try without one first."

Alejandro looked at her concerned as she slowly went to the room she had already occupied last night. He had thought that she had overcome the shock already, but she seemed to be completely shaken though she had looked so calm earlier. He couldn't understand why she was so out of her mind now. Normally she was a tough woman who wasn't so easily frightened even when she had been attacked in the tavern or kidnapped before.

A maid who had been sent to look for Victoria alarmed him to come to her room. Crying helplessly Victoria was sitting on the floor with her knees up to her chin, clutching her bag.

"Victoria, you need to sleep and relax," Alejandro tried to get through to her. "It will help you to get over the shock." Felipe vanished from the room, only to return a few minutes later with a small cup he pressed in her hands.

"That's cactus tea," Victoria exclaimed after she had tasted it. "I had that before. It made me so sleepy."

"Diego takes it sometimes when he can't sleep," Alejandro explained. "Felipe makes it for him."

Victoria looked at Felipe and she knew then who was Zorro's accomplice. At her questioning look Felipe nodded slightly.

"Drink it all and the maid will help you to go to bed. Tomorrow we'll talk again."

"Thank you," Victoria mumbled already getting sleepy from the tea.

	3. Chapter 3

Chapter 3

Felipe and Alejandro took turns at Diego's bedside and they noticed with relief how Diego's condition improved during the night. He even opened his eyes regaining consciousness for brief moments without saying anything.

Z Z Z

The next day Victoria wanted to do vigil at Diego's bed though Alejandro was very reluctant about it. "Victoria, first of all you should take care of yourself. You haven't recovered yet."

"Please, Don Alejandro, I need to do something. I don't know if I can work again today and sitting by Diego's bed is at least something useful. It's not that straining when he is on the mend."

Since she was insistent about it, he let her sit by Diego's bed. "Felipe will come later to relieve you, Victoria. And if you want to talk, I'm here."

"Thank you, Don Alejandro," Victoria smiled a little.

As soon as she was alone with Diego she took his hand again, placing a kiss on it. Then she put her head on his chest to listen to his heartbeat. Tears of relief ran down her cheeks when she felt the slow and steady beat of his heart.

"Don't cry," she felt a hand touch her hair.

"Diego," she exclaimed surprised, "You're awake!"

Before he could say anything more she kissed his lips. With surprising strength he responded to the kiss, opening her lips with his tongue to start an exploration of her mouth.

When they parted again, his lips curved up to a smile that lightened up his eyes.

"You're supposed to be too weak for that from your loss of blood," she chided him.

"You just sped up my recovery," he grinned. He started to choke and she saw the effort it took him to speak as he paled. With his hand he reached out to touch her face, but missed the strength to lift his arm high enough. His hand fell powerless to the side of his head.

"I'm here," Victoria whispered and lay her face on his hand on the pillow. "Don't use up your strength." She cupped his cheek with one hand while facing each other and he smiled before he fell asleep again.

Victoria stayed some time with her head on the pillow beside him, but Diego didn't wake up again until Felipe came to relieve her.

Z Z Z

Diego's health was improving during the next days and he could sit up in his bed again and have a longer talk, but he needed to stay in bed for a while longer.

When Diego didn't sleep, it was either Alejandro or Victoria and of course Felipe who kept him company in his conscious moments. Victoria hardly left Diego's side and Alejandro was surprised how close the two of them suddenly were. He had even caught them kissing once, but since Diego was still very weak and couldn't do much there was no reason to keep them apart.

"Diego, what about you and Victoria?" he asked his son in a quiet moment. "I must say I'm a bit concerned about Victoria."

"Why's that, Father?" Diego asked curiously.

"When you were attacked she got a severe shock and she wasn't able to tell what really happened. She only complained that Zorro hadn't been there for the rescue and was frantic to see him. That's why she returned to her tavern the next day."

"She asked for Zorro?" Diego asked incredulously.

"Yes, she was completely shaken. I thought she had gotten over it the next day, but she hadn't. I'm not sure if she has recovered yet."

"That's why you're concerned, Father?"

"I'm not sure if her sudden dedication to you is not a result of her feeling guilty that you got shot while defending her. And once she has overcome it, she returns to Zorro. I don't want you to get hurt, son."

"I'm sure that won't happen, Father, but I'll talk with her."

Z Z Z

When Victoria visited him later, Diego eyed her critically and noticed how strained she looked.

"What's wrong, Victoria?" Diego asked her, running his fingers through her hair after she had bent down to share a passionate kiss. "I'm feeling much better and I'm not going to die anymore. You should be happy and relax again."

"I'm alright, Diego," Victoria affirmed, but Diego knew her too well.

"That's not true Victoria," Diego contradicted her, "so tell me what bothers you. My father told me that you were out of your mind after I was shot and that you were calling for Zorro to come. But I know that you found out who I am during the fight or you wouldn't have kissed me when I woke up. Why call for Zorro when you knew that I was him?"

Victoria began to cry. "I just couldn't stand it to lose you. I only wished Zorro to be someone else so I wouldn't lose you and Zorro at the same time. Please, Diego, don't leave me. I can't live without you." Sobbing she sank into his arms.

"It's alright, querida, I'm here. You won't lose me anymore." Diego stroked her hair, holding her tight while she kept on crying. He understood that she was utterly scared from nearly losing him and that it would take some time until she overcame the shock.

Z Z Z

Their engagement was no surprise in the pueblo to all who had seen Victoria shift her love from Zorro to Diego, after Diego had nearly died. Victoria explained that she had only now realized how much Diego meant to her when she had been about to lose him.

That was probably the reason Zorro no longer came to the pueblo after he had lost his love to Don Diego.

But it had been Victoria who kept him from riding as Zorro. First of all Diego needed time to recover enough to go riding again. The doctor told him not to put any strain on the side where he had been injured or the wound might break up again. So he had to stick to a carriage until he was healed.

He saw Victoria's relief when she heard he wouldn't be riding as Zorro any time soon. To imagine him facing the garrison all alone scared her now when she hadn't given it much thought before.

"I'm sorry, Diego, but I don't know if I can ever face that again," Victoria turned pale at the memory and Diego put an arm around her, gently pulling her tight. "I don't want to see you lying in your blood once more. Now I know how easily a shot can kill you, even if you're the best swordsman in California. I can't get that picture out my mind and it scares me to death."

"There won't be any reason for Zorro to come into the pueblo when you're here at the hacienda and married to me. And while I wait for my injury to heal, the caballeros will have to find other ways to deal with the alcalde instead of relying on Zorro." Diego kissed her tenderly and he knew that his days as Zorro were finished. Now that she knew his identity, he couldn't ask her to wait patiently at home for Zorro without knowing if he returned at all.

She would never be able to cope with it, because she loved him too much to face the prospect of losing him.

Z Z Z

The wedding took place a few weeks later as soon as the doctor declared Diego fully healed again.

After the wedding Diego led his wife into the library and slipped with her into the cave. "I have a wedding gift for you, Victoria," Diego smiled at her.

"Another one, Diego?" Victoria asked surprised. "But you already gave me that necklace."

On the desk in the cave was a small box that felt very light when she lifted it. Inside she saw some black cloth and it unfolded as two pieces with eye holes in. "Your masks, Diego?" she asked him questioningly.

"My mask and my spare one too," he confirmed. "As long as you have them, I can't ride as Zorro."

"You're giving up Zorro for me?" Victoria asked him incredulously. And when he nodded, he thought he hadn't seen her smile so happily since the day he had been shot. "This is the best wedding gift of all!" She leaped into his arms to kiss him and he knew he had made the right decision.

The END

End file.

Scared by katie1999


Found

**_Found_**

_"Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body." - Elizabeth Stone_

For the first time in his life he's frightened.

It's getting late, he thinks, hours since it happened. The smell of death and gunpowder still lingers in the air and he can't comprehend how he's found himself here, alone and lost.

He's young, too young to fully understand death, to realize that when people die they cease to exist in this world, that they can be cruelly snatched away, love stolen from you, leaving you alone.

When Don Diego sees the child he's huddled against the base of a tree, tears falling silently from eyes that seem too big for his thin face.

He looks up as he approaches, swiping at the tears, looking at the stranger, into the kind eyes and at the strong, outstretched arms.

He's a tiny and fragile child, as light as a sparrow, and Diego holds him as gently as the birds with broken wings that he nursed back to health when he was a child himself.

He can feel the boy's heart beating through the thin fabric of his shirt, feel his chest lift with a soundless sob.

He carries him to the carriage, climbing up beside him, and lightly slapping the reins for the horse to hurry away from the battlefield.

After a long time the boy falls asleep, the motion of the carriage lulling him, tears drying on his cheeks, revealing the dark smudges of exhaustion through the trails of dirt. Diego removes his cloak and drapes it over the child, pausing to tenderly run a hand over his hair. He looks down at the tiny hand resting in his large one, and feels his heart break.

He's almost home when he realizes that in all this time the child has never let go.

End file.

Found by Cruelest Sea


Only one kiss

**Only one kiss**

_Disclaimer: This story was written solely for the enjoyment of other Zorro fans and is not intended to infringe on any copyrights held by Goodman/Rosen Productions, New World Television, Zorro Productions, the estate of Johnston McCulley or anyone else._

The vaquero in the tavern demanded another drink after he already had several and Victoria refused.

"Senor, you had already enough. It is better if you leave now," Victoria denied the request with a firm voice.

"Why are you so unfriendly?" the drunken vaquero asked impolitely, restraining her by the arm. "Why don't the two of us have ha little fun?"

"Let me go," Victoria demanded, but the vaquero only laughed. "What will you do if I don't?"

Diego had risen from his chair in her defense. "Let her go!" he demanded angrily.

The vaquero paid him no heed but instead produced a pistol from under the table that he pointed at Victoria.

"You should better keep to you own business, Senor," he addressed Diego. "Now the lady and I will have a little fun."

He began to drag Victoria to the stairs leading to the guest rooms, the pistol pointed between her shoulders the whole time. Victoria was terrified and with wide eyes she looked at Diego who had stopped a few steps before them. The rest of the guest were paralyzed and and only looked at the scene in shock.

"I said let her go!" he repeated in a deep angry voice, but the vaquero continued in the same direction which brought him closer to Diego who was standing by the stairs. The moment they passed by, Diego stepped between Victoria and the pistol. He was fast, but not fast enough to fully distract the shot that loosened from the pistol. He knocked out the man with his right fist when he felt the pain from the shot at his left arm.

The moment it was over, everybody moved to action again. Mendoza quickly came over to manacle the bandit and bring him to prison while he was still unconscious.

"This was marvelous, Don Diego. I never thought you were able to do that," he congratulated him.

"Why did you do that?" Victoria asked still shocked. "You could have been killed if the bullet hadn't missed you." But then she saw the growing red stain on his upper arm.

"You are injured!" she exclaimed. "Let me help you. Remove your shirt and I'll take care of your wound."

Diego tried to ignore the pain in his arm, he knew if others saw the scars on his body it would rise suspicions where a studious man like him got them.

"It is just a scratch. You need not bother about it. Are you alright?" he tried to move the attention away from himself. "I'll go up to one of your rooms and take care of it there."

"Why are you be so demure, Diego?" Victoria asked uncomprehendingly. "But if you insist I will bring you some bandages and something to clean it. You can take the room on the right side of the stairs."

Diego went up to the room where he sat down on the bed relieved to escape the attention of the tavern guests. A few minutes later Victoria arrived with water and alcohol for cleaning and some bandages. Expectantly he waited for her to put down everything and leave again.

"Diego, don't be so coy. Remove your jacket and your shirt and I'll have a look at it. It is the least I can do after you saved my life today. How will you treat yourself with only one arm? I know what to do I have treated my brothers before."

He tried not to move, still waiting for her to leave, but she only stared at him. The pain in his arm made him give in and he sighingly removed his jacket and the left arm of his shirt covering himself as much as possible with the remaining half of his shirt.

"Oh please, Diego! But if you insist," she said annoyed by his shyness.

She looked at him after she had bandaged his arm and couldn't explain why she felt suddenly so attracted to him. Not being able to avert his eyes she wanted to feel his naked skin under her hands and she put her hands on his shoulders under the open shirt. When she kissed him, the world exploded around her. Diego responded to the kiss with a passion she had never expected. Zorro had always restrained himself and kept their kisses short and tender, but Diego was too surprised to hold back giving her the most passionate kiss she had ever received. His muscles felt so good under her touch and the way he explored her mouth left her breathless.

When they drew apart she was stunned by his passion and his suddenly revealed love.

"Oh Diego, why didn't you ever say something?" she whispered. She wanted to say that she hadn't wanted it, but it would be a lie.

But she was in love with Zorro, how could she want Diego at the same time? Confused by her conflicting emotions she turned around and ran out of the door into her room locking the door behind her.

Some minutes later she heard Diego's soft knock at the door, but she ignored it and didn't open to the repeated knocking.

In the evening Zorro came to visit her as she had expected it, but how could she look him in the eyes after she had betrayed him today by kissing another man? She loved him but she couldn't ignore her feelings for Diego either. She loved Zorro, but she wanted Diego as well. When he reached out for her with his hand she didn't rush into his arms as she used to but turned away from him instead.

"Please go, Zorro. I need to be alone tonight."

Zorro was shocked. It was the first time she was sending him away.

"Is something wrong, Querida? Are you angry at me because I wasn't there for you when you were attacked? Tell me what bothers you."

"No, Zorro, I'm not angry at you and I don't want to talk about it. Just leave me alone. It was an eventful day and I need to rest," she said impatiently.

Zorro knew her well enough that when she wasn't in the mood for talking she wouldn't change her mind about it.

"Sleep well then," the hurt by her behavior audible in his voice he turned around and left as quietly as he had come.

Instead of sleeping she threw herself on the bed crying in her pillow. Why had she made such a mess out of her life? It had been only one kiss that had turned everything upside down. She never knew Diego had such feelings for her. Who would have thought he would kiss her so passionately, showing her how much he wanted her and she wanted him the same. Now she knew she was the woman he loved for so long who was in love with another man.

When she saw Diego the next day in the tavern, she felt the tension between them. The easy friendship she had taken for granted had vanished, now that she knew what he had hidden all these years from her. Diego tried to talk to her in private, but she avoided him as much as possible by making sure she wasn't alone in his company for a single moment until he gave up his efforts having understood the message.

Alejandro soon realized that something was amiss between the two of them and asked Diego if they had a quarrel.

"No, Father, we didn't have a quarrel." It was the truth, since kissing each other couldn't exactly be defined as having a quarrel.

"What else has happened then?" Alejandro inquired. "You saved her life with this foolish act and now she doesn't want to talk to you?"

"Father, I don't want to talk about it." Diego continued drinking slowly his lemonade making clear he wouldn't provide further information about the matter.

Annoyed Alejandro went to the kitchen to talk to Victoria. Victoria was in deep thoughts and hadn't heard him enter. Surprised she dropped the dishes she was carrying when he addressed her.

"Victoria, I'm sorry I startled you. I wanted to know what is wrong between you and Diego. Has he somehow behaved improperly towards you?"

"No Alejandro, it's not Diego's fault, he has done nothing wrong. But if you excuse me, I have to clean up this mess and my customers are waiting to be served."

Frustrated by this insufficient answer Alejandro retreated to the main room again.

Not only Alejandro was frustrated by Victoria's behavior. Diego knew he needed to talk to Victoria but as long as she eluded him there wasn't a chance.

The next time Zorro came to town she turned around evading eye contact with him and retreated to the tavern until he was gone. She was still too ashamed of herself to face Zorro again.

This was welcome fodder for the local gossip. Not only did the tavern owner have a quarrel with her best friend Diego, she was also cross with Zorro.

Diego didn't know what to do. Victoria's behavior was a puzzle to him. He could understand that their friendship had changed now that his true feelings were revealed, but why she didn't talk to Zorro either?

Or had she found out that he was Zorro and was angry with both sides of him for deceiving her?

When he had visited her as Zorro on the day of the attack he had wanted to remove his mask and reveal his identity to her, but her refusal to talk to him had made it impossible.

His mood deteriorated with every day this was going on, until Alejandro couldn't bear it any longer. His son who was normally quiet and well-tempered showed his mood by either getting easily angered or brooding to himself.

"Diego, I don't know what kind of problem you and Victoria have, but you should work it out by talking to each other. Victoria is snapping at her customers and won't soon have any left if she continues like that and you are hardly to bear either. I have invited her over to dinner tonight. First she refused and only after I told her you wouldn't be here, did she agree to come. Tell me Diego, what have you done to her that she suddenly avoids you at all costs?"

When Diego remained silent, he got angry again.

"Aargh, just keep your secrets to yourself, but work it out tonight." Annoyed he waved with his gloves and strode agitated out of the room.

Victoria was surprised when she saw Diego standing in the the library at her arrival.

"You must apologize my lie, Victoria," Alejandro said. "It was my idea to lure you here by telling you that Diego wouldn't be here tonight. He didn't know anything about it until I told him an hour ago. What kind of problems you have, you should talk about it. Why don't you go outside to the garden, there you'll be undisturbed and nobody will hear your yelling," he glanced at Victoria who started to blush, "or talking or whatever you have to do. But don't take too long, dinner will soon be ready."

Nervously avoiding Diego's eyes she let him lead her to the garden until they were out of hearing distance.

"My father is right, Victoria, we have to talk about last week."

"Please Diego, can't we simply forget what has happened? It was only a kiss and I don't know what came over me that made me kiss you. I never wanted it."

"Don't lie to me and yourself, Victoria. You can't deny that we both wanted it."

"But can't you understand, Diego, I'm in love with Zorro and I can't betray him with you. I feel so bad about it." Victoria started to cry.

"Don't cry, Victoria, everything will be alright, just trust me."

"How can you say that, Diego. I don't want to lose Zorro because of you and I don't want to lose you either."

"Close your eyes please, Victoria," he said with a low voice that sounded much deeper now.

Unable to resist him she did as he asked. Slowly he took her in his arms, holding her as he had done so often as Zorro and gave her one of the tender kisses like the ones he had given her as Zorro. She immediately recognized the familiar touch and responded by throwing her arms around his neck. Slowly he intensified his kiss until they were kissing as passionately as the day she kissed him as Diego. Only then did she realize what was happening. Surprised she opened her eyes and looked at Diego.

"You are Zorro! And I thought I was going crazy because I felt so attracted to you, Diego, but you are one and the same! Why didn't you tell me?"

"I had wanted to tell you the truth that night when I came to you as Zorro but you didn't give me the chance to talk to you."

"I'm sorry, Diego, but I was so confused. I wanted Zorro's love, but at the same time I wanted the passion you gave me as Diego and I didn't know what to do."

"It's alright, Victoria. I love you and I want you. I will give you any kind of kisses you want, if you still want to marry me?" She didn't need any further invitation to throw herself wholeheartedly into his embrace.

They were both out of breath when they finally drew apart again. They just wanted to start all over again, but were interrupted by Alejandro who was calling them for dinner.

Alejandro had expected to interrupt them in an argument and not to see them so passionately entangled.

"Arrmph," he cleared his throat loudly audible. "Can you please explain to me what is going on here? Diego? Victoria?"

"Father, I think you can congratulate us. Victoria has agreed to marry me." He laid his arm around Victoria's waist who smiled happily at him.

"And what about Zorro?"

"What explanation do you want to hear? The one for the alcalde or the real one?" Diego prompted.

"Why are there different ones?" Alejandro asked uncomprehendingly.

"The real one is that I'm Zorro and the official one will be.." Diego didn't finish the sentence.

"That I'm tired of waiting for Zorro and that I found out how much Diego means to me after he saved my life last week which is the truth." Victoria continued smiling.

It took Alejandro a while to overcome the shock of this sudden revelation, but then he learned a lot that evening about his son who had to answer many questions from both his father and Victoria. But when he asked them why they had this sudden change of heart after all these years Victoria told him that it was only one kiss that changed everything. He didn't understand because Diego and Victoria only looked at each other lost in their own world where only their love counted and the marriage three weeks later didn't come to soon for them.

End file.

Only one kiss by katie1999


Little Cupid

Disclaimer: Felipe and co. don't belong to me.

Author's Note:

This is a...well...not exactly lighthearted, but not exactly downhearted either...story I wrote years ago. It used to be on my now defunct website. I read it again recently and, while it doesn't really resemble most things I write nowadays, it doesn't seem as fluffy as I remembered, so, well, here it is, with very little editing.

It's probably an after-series AU. Doesn't really assume specific knowledge of the series, beyond knowing who the characters are.

* * *

>
Little Cupid

Felipe de la Vega put his head in his hands. The teenage boy was worried about his father. Diego just had not been his normally cheerful self lately. For starters, the caballero refused to hold their normal fencing lessons. That in itself was not unusual, but the reason Diego gave for doing so let Felipe know in uncertain term that something was seriously wrong.

"I can't stand violence anymore. In fact, I think I'll stop being Zorro."

Felipe remembered letting his mouth hanging open at that. It was so unlike Diego to be that irresponsible, and to be so casual about it.

The teenage boy tried to think of what terrible things that could have happened to his father recently. Diego is not a quitter, period. The end of the world must be definitely near if he felt he had to give up his quest for justice.

Somehow, Felipe knew the reason behind Diego's startling declaration must be totally unrelated to his "dislike" of violence.

* * *

>
His said father did not, at the moment, look sad, depressed, or anything like he was during the past few days. In fact, he had a calm, peaceful, aura about him. Felipe rarely saw his father that way, and he wasn't sure he liked it. Diego was hiding something from him!

"Felipe."

He looked up, surprised that his father had actually said his name.

"Don't stare at me like I'm something so disgusting." Diego actually sounded hurt.

Felipe had a good grace to avert his gaze. "Sorry, Father. Why did you call me?"

"I don't know, Felipe, but you look like you have something you want to talk about."

_The only person around here who has something to talk about is you, Father._ However, Felipe was wise enough to refrain from voicing that thought.

"Si, Father. Can I ask you a question?"

A frown appeared on Diego's face, but he nodded. "I suppose."

"Why do you wish to resign from -" Felipe choked, unable to finish his question.

"Being Zorro?" Diego said, not pretending not to know what his adopted son meant. "Like I told you before, I personally detest violence. I don't know how I ever managed to train in Spain. The more I fought, the more I know Zorro was simply not for me. This role needs someone else, someone who could handle all the responsibilities."

'And the sacrifice,' finished Felipe quietly, making sure that his voice was low enough so that his father couldn't hear him. Still, it was strange. Diego never complained about being Zorro before, why did he now?

The teenage boy was not happy. If he could not find out the truth from Diego, he would have to go to his grandfather, Don Alejandro. However, the thought was quickly pushed aside. Don Alejandro would not be much help, considering that he had not a clue about Zorro's identity.

Victoria? Maybe she could help, but he suspected that his father's problem had to do with her somehow. Anyway, he better finds out what she knows, or doesn't know.

Suddenly, an idea came to Felipe. Without any doubt, that was a very foolish idea, but it was an idea nevertheless. Well, it couldn't hurt to try, especially if his father was still uncooperative in the matter.

* * *

>
Felipe found himself at the tavern, and all his doubts were gone. He was going to pull this off!

"Felipe," greeted Victoria brightly.

He returned her smile. She is always radiant, always a pleasure to be with. If Diego doesn't have his eyes on her...

Wait- banish the thought. Victoria is like an older sister to him, although not a lot, but still older. And since Diego is now his father, he must look to her as his possible future mother.

"I've been meaning to ask you something, Felipe," Victoria stated after they made some small talk.

_Cut to the chase and direct to the point, doesn't she?_ Well, that was one thing he admired her for. She said whatever she felt like saying, unlike his father, who forever hid his feelings, and most of other things.

"Si, Senorita. What is it that you wish to know?"

Victoria seemed amused. "Well, I want to know where in the world Diego had been during the past few days. Not that's saying much, considering that he's rather a silent type, but he used to be around, so I kind of miss him."

Now Felipe was truly confused. His father might be acting strange, and reserved for that matter, but he still did come to town, and undoubtedly stopped by the tavern.

"I was just teasing," the tavern owner went on, apparently reading his thought. "He was here, all right, but his heart seemed to be else where. I was hoping that you might have a clue."

For a while, Felipe contemplated on his plan. Then he made his decision.

"Allow me a question, Senorita Victoria. Would you believe that my father is not what he appears to be?"

"Not what he appears to be?" she repeated, a perplexed expression appeared on her beautiful face.

"Si. He is not only a poet, a scientist, a musician, or a painter-"

"But also a terrific cook," finished Victoria, a dreamy look in her eyes. "I remember that one time when Maria was sick and couldn't help me, and Sergeant Mendoza insisted on that special recipe. Guess who came to my rescue: Diego. I didn't know he could handle cooking so well."

Diego's adopted son sweated, despite the weather. _This is not what I intended at all, but I guess I'll have to make the most of the situation._

"All right. I don't really know what's bothering my father either-"

"I never said I don't know," interrupted the tavern owner. She then lowered her voice in conspiracy, "He's in love. I just don't know who the lucky lady is."

_Now that is easy, Senorita. That lady is you. But Father must be really unstable for you to notice that he is in love._ Had Felipe said them out loud, he probably ruined everything for his father then and there.

"You could be right, Senorita," he remarked carefully at last. "I'm afraid I'm rather clueless when it comes to love affair."

Victoria raised her eyebrows. "Felipe? Have you ever loved someone?"

He shook his head vigorously, feeling his face turned an interesting shade of red.

"Well, sorry about that," she amended. "I don't understand much about love either, but right now I guess I am in love. However, I believe he doesn't know of my love."

The idea that Victoria could not always say things on her mind seemed alien to Felipe.

"You should tell him if you really love him."

To his chagrin, her face darkened. "I would, if he is around for me to let him know!" she snapped. "It's not Zorro, in case you're wondering. The mask will always stand between us." Then she managed a small smile. "What happened to your being clueless about love?"

_So Zorro is heart-broken. No wonder Father is so out of it. Still..._

"I'm not sure, Senorita. Love is such a strange thing. Look at what it does to my father, to you, to anyone else."

"Well, you are sure philosophical about it, Felipe. I want to look at love from the outside, too, but I guess I'm too swept up in it."

Felipe felt his heart ache for the beautiful tavern owner.

"Who is he? I might be able to let him know that you would like to see him."

Victoria grinned. "That's my secret, Felipe. I would like to give him more time."

Felipe was dumbfounded. Victoria was sure not very upset about not being able to express her love. She never ceased to amaze him, or his father for that matter.

"Can I ask you something else, then?"

"Sure, ask away."

He took a deep breath. "Why did you break up with Zorro?"

Of all the reactions Felipe could have expected, Victoria grabbing his hands, pulling him toward the back of the tavern and laughing, simply was not anything he would have dreamed of.

"How could I break up with Zorro when we have never been together to begin with?" Victoria explained between wiping tears from her eyes.

"But...but" stuttered the boy, not unlike when he first regained his power of speech.

"I know. People thought we were a couple. Nothing could be further from the truth!" A hint of exasperation crept into her voice.

There was something else going on here, and Felipe de la Vega sure would not back out until he knew.

"Does Zorro know of your opinion on this?"

Victoria sighed. "Felipe, if I don't know any better, I would think that Zorro sent you to ask me all these questions."

"No, he did not send me," the boy answered with total accuracy.

"Anyway, Zorro and I have an understanding, or so I thought. From the beginning, Zorro does not belong to me, but to the people."

That sounded really unselfish, coming from Victoria. "Have you ever tried to find out who he really is?"

"Are you a lawyer or something?" she mockingly asked, then shook her head. "No. I believe Zorro has a certain right to his privacy. Besides, I was only infatuated with him, which is, sadly, not the same thing as real love."

She was way too uninterested in Zorro's identity for Felipe's liking. Now was a good time as any to apply his so-called plan.

"Senorita Victoria, why don't you come and visit my father? After all, seeing you would cheer him up."

"Um.. did that ever work before?" mused Victoria.

For a moment there, Felipe thought she was serious until she winked. "Good idea, Felipe. I would love to come."

Diego's adopted son could not be more pleased. "That's great, Senorita. See you at the hacienda sometime soon." With that, he got up, waved, then left the tavern, feeling like he had accomplished a great feat.

* * *

>
"I'm home," announced Felipe.

Diego looked like he was trying to hide whatever he had been doing and putting on a cheerful face, which would have fooled anyone except his adopted son.

"I was looking for you, Felipe. Where have you been?"

The boy sighed. Yet another lie. He just had to put an end to this.

"I went to the tavern," replied Felipe. Before Diego could get any word in, he continued, "You know, Father, Senorita Victoria is worried about you."

His father stiffened visibly. "Which one: Diego or Zorro?"

"Diego of course. But to be fair, I guess she is also concerned about Zorro, whoever he is."

Seeing that his father was quiet, the boy figured it was time for him to put his plan in action. "I suppose you know all along that she never loved Zorro."

"No, I was more stupid than you give me credit for. If a man like Zorro could not win her love, I don't know who could."

Was it despair on his father's face? Felipe could not believe that his father, who could do many amazing things, could be so helpless when it came to love.

"Anyway, I invited Senorita Victoria to come here, and she accepted."

"Are you the owner of this house by any chance?" If Diego's look could kill, his son would be dead.

Not that said son was disconcerted.

"I could tell her not to come, in the way that she would never suspect a thing... on one condition."

"Which is?" Diego was obviously nervous, and willing to take anyway out of seeing her here.

Felipe looked straight into his father's eyes. "You tell me honestly, dear father, what went wrong from the beginning. You are definitely not yourself lately, and there must be a lot more to that than what you already told me."

Diego gaped at his son, who already knew he won.

"All right. I'm going to satisfy your unfounded curiosity, even though this is your fault."

"How could my curiosity be unfounded when you made a stony face? Or how could it be my fault that Senorita Victoria finally catches on that you're in love?" returned the teenage boy, smiling triumphantly at his father.

Diego did not seem to find humor in his son's questions.

"It is your fault that Victoria is coming here. It is your fault that you use that to bargain with me."

"I'm sorry, Father, but you weren't talking otherwise."

Diego let out a heavy sigh. "Look, Felipe. I'm sorry too, but can't you give me some time? Have I ever kept anything from you before?"

_You have now. But I used to keep the fact that I regained my hearing from you, so I guess we are even._

"I am not sure, Father," he answered, choosing his words carefully. "You might have hidden something before, but this is the first time that I know of."

His father suddenly turned away. "We'll resume this conversation later."

Felipe bit his lip. He could not shrug off the fact that Diego left with a barely concealed rage. It was a mistake to say that he didn't trust his father. True, it hurts, but if Diego is not ready, his son can't force him to open up.

* * *

>
As much as he did not want to, Felipe went back to Victoria's tavern. Not going back on his words was one of many things he learned from Diego.

"Back so soon?" asked the tavern owner.

The boy smiled sheepishly. "I forgot that we'll go on a trip, so I'm afraid you can't visit us anytime soon. I'll try to get Father here, though."

"Don't bother." Victoria waved her hand. "If he'll only come in with his body and leave his spirit somewhere else, he's better off at home."

She must have seen right through his attempt to get them together! It becomes clear to Felipe now that both his father and Victoria are trying to avoid each other, in which case there is absolutely nothing else he could do.

"I guess this is good-bye then, Senorita. Sorry for wasting your time."

Victoria gently touched his arms. "I never thought a time spent with you is wasted, Felipe. Diego should be very proud to adopt such a fine young man like yourself."

"Thank you," he murmured. Tears were blurring his vision and he fought hard to hold them back.

Victoria pulled the boy close and embraced him.

"It's all right, Felipe."

"No, it's not," he replied between tears. "I was making a mess. I was just worried about my father, and now he might not even talk to me anymore."

"Then you don't know your father at all. He won't be mad at you long, if he is mad at all."

Felipe just looked wide-eyed at her.

"Your father and I grew up together, remember? He is gentle-hearted, and very much fond of you. I could bore you for hours with stories of when we were children, but you just have to take my words that Diego would eventually forgive you for whatever you did."

"You do know what I did." It was not a question.

"I think I have an idea, but I get a feeling that you want to keep it a secret."

"It's not a secret anymore if you know," Felipe said in a broken voice.

"Oh, stop that, will you!" exclaimed the tavern owner.

Felipe knew he was acting like a small child, but his body would not stop trembling.

"Don't feel so sorry for yourself, Felipe," she continued, hugging him tight. "Everyone makes mistake. Even I do, if that would make you feel any better."

Felipe did feel somewhat better after hearing her soothing voice.

"Thank you, Senorita Victoria." He reluctantly tore himself from her embrace, his face flushed with embarrassment.

The tavern owner released him. "Let me tell you something, Felipe. You are a big guy, but it's perfectly all right for you to cry sometime."

Felipe did not know what to say to that. A guy like him should not cry, but he would rather not contradict her. Looking out the window, he noticed with growing alarm that it was already dark.

"I must be going, Senorita. Thank you for everything."

"You're welcome. See you later."

* * *

>
He came home to the worried face of Don Alejandro.

"Felipe, where have you been?"

Weary and tired, he didn't feel like saying much. "Victoria's," he mumbled.

Somehow Don Alejandro seemed to find Felipe's answer amusing. "All day? Are you sure
>you're not setting yourself up to be Zorro's love rival?"

His grandfather's teasing failed to cheer him up. "It's nothing like that, and I would rather not talk about it."

"Oh. Suit yourself. No one wants to talk to an old man like me anyway." Don Alejandro turned in a huff.

Felipe looked after his grandfather's retreating back, then simply collapsed to the floor. _What was wrong with me today?_

* * *

>
Diego was working on one of his experiments when Felipe walked in.

"Father, can I sleep in your room tonight?"

There was a pause, which, to the impatient young man, seemed like an eternity, and he was almost tempted to just leave quietly.

"Um... sure," came his father's voice at last. "Mind if I ask why?"

Felipe's heart sank. His father sounded so hesitant about the idea of sleeping in the same room with him.

"I'm scared, Father. Not of nightmares, they come less frequently now, but of what I did today. I made everyone angry at me, including you."

"And your point being?"

"I don't want to hide, or run, from what I did, although I feel terrible just to think about it. If I were you, I probably would not want to talk to me ever again."

Diego stopped his experiment and turned to face his son. "Not much of a point, is it? But you are beating yourself up over something so trivial. I don't hate you, Felipe, and never would. If I do, you wouldn't be here at all."

Felipe was speechless. He never really thought about what would happen to him if not for Diego. Now that he did, the tears welled in his eyes, and before he could stop himself, the dam broke loose, and he found himself on the cold floor, crying like nothing else mattered.

To his surprise, his father sat down and effortlessly lifted him up. "Oh, you're such a big baby, aren't you? Come, I'm going to put you to bed."

Felipe could hear a definite grin in Diego's voice. Realizing that his voice would be incomprehensible with all his crying, he simply relaxed in his father's strong arms.

* * *

>
When Felipe woke up early next morning, he didn't see his father. Strange. Father usually sleeps in. It is a part of his cover... Oh! Felipe slapped his forehead. _He does not want to be Zorro any longer._

After fixing himself some breakfast (he considered himself a decent cook, although no where nearly as good as his father or Victoria), Felipe went out for a walk. The fresh morning air would do him good.

As he neared the garden, he heard faint sounds like someone talking. Curious as to who could be in the garden, the teenage boy quietly crept to the nearest bush. Looking from behind his hiding place, who else did he behold but the two people he really cared about. Totally losing interest in a morning walk, an anxious Felipe moved closer, straining to hear their conversation.

"... He's worried, Diego."

Felipe saw his father nodded. "That was the reason I sought your advice. I have no idea what I did wrong. He's practically blaming himself. It is not even his problem, but mine."

"What exactly is your problem?"

Despite himself, Felipe smiled. He could count on Victoria to be blunt. He doubted, though, that his father would tell her the truth. Knowing Diego, he probably talked his way out in the way that Victoria would never suspect.

"I'm in love with a woman who does not love me back."

Felipe nearly jumped, and gave away his presence, but caught himself in time. He marveled at how seemingly easy Victoria could get his father to talk. Also, how could Diego ever say that? Victoria, from what he knew of her, definitely had some feelings for his father.

"Sounds like someone I know, as in myself. I'm also pining for a man who does not seem to notice my affections."

Panic gripped the teenage boy. What was going on here? Victoria could not be that clueless!

"Zorro? Impossible. He's totally in love with you."

"How do you know Zorro's feelings so well anyhow? For a moment there, I almost thought you are him."

Diego looked down. "Suppose I am Zorro, would you hate me?"

Victoria laughed. "No. I would just hit you once. Is that all right?"

"Sure, if I am really Zorro."

Victoria raised her hand, and Felipe thought she was going to slap his father, but then he saw her hand slowly made contact with his father's face.

"This is for being so thickheaded. I love you, Diego. Whether you are Zorro or not does not matter to me at all."

For the first time in the past few days, Diego smiled. "You're right, Victoria. I'm so thickheaded not to notice. I just thought I was hopelessly chasing after Zorro's lady."

"Let's not talk about Zorro. I would rather talk about us."

"And Felipe. He's my son after all," Diego reminded her, much to his son's delight. "Now I think I understand what he tried to do. The boy was trying his hand at being a cupid. Almost succeeded, too. I just didn't give him any chance."

"He's such a cute cupid, though."

Felipe blushed furiously at that comment.

Diego lowered his voice. "Don't let him hear you say that. That boy will get you under his spells."

_Too late, Father._ Felipe smiled. _I wish I really do have spells to cast, though. My life would be much easier that way._

"Aw... I would not mind being under his spells," she said in a teasing tone.

"Well, the boy was rather down last I saw him. Think you could cheer him up?"

"I will try."

Diego held out his hand, which Victoria took. Together they walked toward the hacienda.

"Oh... Felipe. Don't stay down near the bush too much. You'll catch cold from the dew."

**The End**

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>
Thank you for reading my story. :)

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Little Cupid by Scroll Keeper


Silk Neck Ties

Annoyed beyond belief by the new alcalde's behaviour, Zorro waited calmly in the wardrobe. Ignacio de Soto should have been the best alcalde for Los Angeles, instead he was just the same as the last one. Zorro felt the cold sting of disillusionment.

Grinning, he realised he knew enough about Ignacio to really annoy and irritate the man. The silk neck ties and fine clothes were an obsession with him. Who needed seven silk neck ties anyway? It would be fun to play with the stuck up fool. Ripping 'Z's into the fine jackets would indeed be cathartic.

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Silk Neck Ties by Paulsmum2001


Felipe's Guide to Babysitting

**Author's Note: **100-word drabble from the episode "Zorro's Other Woman". I had intended to make this a slightly longer story but this about sums up what I was going to write.

**FELIPE'S GUIDE TO BABYSITTING**

A baby! What on earth was he supposed to do with a baby? All he knew about them was that they cried a lot and leaked at both ends. What had Diego been thinking? Why hadn't he taken this tiny nuisance to a female, like Victoria?

Felipe looked down at the baby in the basket who was happily sucking on her fingers. He smiled as he remembered that day, when the idea of taking care of a baby frightened him to his very toes. What a fool he had been, he thought as he kissed his daughter on the head.

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Felipe's Guide to Babysitting by pamz