Jesse was exciting to her -- he began to awaken her sensuality (emphasis on the "began") -- she was able to give of herself in a myriad of ways. In a sense, she "rescued" Jesse -- at least, I've always felt she believed she did. The curious element of Jesse having her beloved mother's heart, coupled with the headiness of any first love, and you had a sweet young love story that was innocent and uncomplicated. It was a romantic love. A safe love?

Okay, here comes Danny ... confident, perhaps arrogant, educated, wordly, exuding sexuality -- comfortable in his own skin. Very complicated. Dangerous.

Of course there was the obvious danger, with Danny as a member of the infamous Santos clan -- but, the other element of danger was that Danny awakened a different kind of awareness in Michelle. Yes, she loved Jesse, but why did she feel this attraction for Danny? She and Jesse had a sexual relationship, but I would venture to guess it was nothing like the stirrings she began to feel for Danny. Danny's sexuality is a part of his complete make-up -- Michelle felt the air sizzle whenever he was in the room. That was frightening to her -- she didn't understand what she was feeling. It was dangerous. And, aren't you supposed to run from danger?

Although I absolutely agree, kristi, with your take on the sexual elements at work here, I do believe it's such an amalgam of the sexual pull, Michelle growing into her own as a woman and away from her "childlike" state, finally understanding that the world is full of shades of grey. All of that is overwhelming, confusing, liberating,and, indeed, dangerous.

I think we all agree that when Danny and Michelle finally get together, the set will probably burn down, it will be so hot. But, what I'm also hoping to see is a couple that have an intensity on all levels. I'd love for them to emerge as one of the solid couples on the show -- secure in their relationship, working in sync, raising a family, helping their friends, etc., etc. I know, I know, soaps have to have conflict, but can't I have my own little fantasy?

Portia