And Then... (DA,XO,CC,NR) Ch. XII 9/6/04 [WIP]

[TatiLoca]

<center>Title: And Then...
Category: CC, Dark Angel x-over
Summary: A few of our favorite humans have been hiding something,
a new face comes into town shaking things up, and then? oh just read it and find out! Oh and Alex didn?t go to Sweden instead he went to Seattle to help out Max and the other transgenics with an Eyes only mission. The same for the summer after ?Destiny? Liz and Kyle hit the road with Zack and ended up discreetly visiting a few siblings, Zane, Krit, Syl, and Max. (Pretend they were part of the mission to blow Manticore up and instead of Zack dying Josh did.
Rating: R, mainly for language and situations.
Disclaimer: I don?t own any thing, if I did the travesty that was Season 2 would not have happened and my poor Dreamer heart would have remained unbroken as well as Alex remaining alive, so please don?t sue me.</center>



<center> . : : INTRO : : . </center>

1991 ? Gillette, Wyoming. 14 genetically enhanced soldiers attempt an escape from Project Manticore, a government funded lab facility/base. They range from ages 13 to 7 (Zack, Tinga; Ben, Max: Jondy, Brin; Krit, Syl; Zane, Josh; Wits; Lili, Ky). The unit scatters, the soldiers, children really, head towards the perimeter fence knowing freedom is on the other side. 13 manage to escape relatively unharmed.

4 weeks later- Lili happens upon Isis, a fellow run away for an entirely different reason. Isis becomes Lli?s first friend and the two make their way south. 3 months after their first meeting the 2 are taken in by Claudia Parker. 2 months later in Albuquerque Lili is adopted by Jeff and Nancy Parker, her new name is Elizabeth Claudia Parker, her middle name a request by both girls. The Parker?s then move to Roswell to open a café, allowing the town to assume Liz is their biological daughter. Unfortunately Isis couldn?t join them and was put back in foster care. Her only requests were to keep in touch with Lili and change her own name from Isis Anderson to Isis Serena Perez, taking Claudia?s middle name as her own and using her mother?s name instead of the state given one.

6 weeks later- Sheriff Jim Valenti of Roswell, New Mexico stumbles upon 7 year old Ky, the youngest of the escapees, asleep in the Soap Factory. After a confrontation in which the Sheriff found himself looking down the barrel of his own gun, the 2 head to Jim?s house. Within the next 3 months Ky has officially become Kyle James Valenti, adopted son of Jim and Michelle Valenti. The following year Michelle will leave Roswell, unable to handle the strain of being a Sheriff?s wife.

4 months later- Wits is found by Charles Whitman having a seizure in the middle of the road. Being forced to trust each other Charles brings Wits home, upon discovering the truth both he and his wife pledge to help Wits remain free. Using his Manticore training Wits forges the necessary documents to become Alexander Charles Whitman. 3 years later the Whitman?s move to Roswell leaving everyone under the impression Alex is their biological son.

TBC?

[TatiLoca]

<center> . : : I : : . </center>

Michael stood outside the Crash Down uncertainly. It was late, but he knew Liz was awake, she’d told Max she’d be doing the week’s receipts that night. Using his powers to unlock the door he slipped inside cautiously. The story Max had just told him had blown him away. Sure he’d known Liz would do just about anything for Max, but he’d never imagined how much of her life she’d actually sacrifice for him. For all of them.

A loud ‘thud’ broke Michael from his thoughts. Instantly on alert, he cautiously crept inside. Max’s earlier words regarding his death reverberated through his head. Michael silently proceeded through the diner. Hearing another ‘thud’ he followed the sound to the back room. Worriedly he checked for any signs of a break-in or struggle, he knew the Parker’s were out of town again, leaving Liz alone.
“Focus!” Keep your opponent in sight at all times Wit.” Liz’s voice floated up from the basement.

Her voice sounding so strong and demanding momentarily surprised Michael. Peeking through the crack in the basement door Michael saw who Liz was talking to. And nearly fell over. There stood innocent Lizzie Parker in a black sports bra and baggy black sweats, her hair pulled up in a bun, as if it was everyday occurrence Michael was seeing. She was circling Alex and Kyle, who also wore work out clothes Kyle being sans shirt, and calling out orders and advice as they sparred.

Fascinated, or morbidly curious, Michael continued watching as Alex and Kyle beat each other up. As Liz circled the 2 calling out advice Michael caught a look at the back of her neck. There for anyone to see was a tattoo. A barcode to be exact. Puzzled he looked at Alex and Kyle and sure enough both had similar tattoos as well.

“Ky, stay on alert. If someone attacked from behind you’d be caught off guard.” Liz scolded observing a lapse in concentration where Alex landed a solid kick that should have been easily avoided. “You should have blocked Wit’s kick easily little brother.”

“Whatever,” Kyle grunted having the wind knocked out of him, “I can handle myself Lili.” He told her resuming his fighting stance.

Liz stiffened. She knew Kyle didn’t mean to be flippant, but with all that had been going on with Lydecker after them and Maxie being caught, now wasn’t the time to get lax in training. That and he had issues with her constantly kicking his ass. Without warning Liz launched her attack. Silent agreement passed between Kyle and Alex, who teamed up against Liz effortlessly.

Michael watched amazed as tiny Liz swiftly and efficiently took down Kyle quickly followed by Alex.

“You were saying little brother?” Liz smirked, something Michael was sure he’d never seen before.

“Show off!” Alex grinned at his little sister from his spot sprawled on his back.

“Alright sis, I get the point. Careful or you’ll be as bad s Zack.” Kyle grumbled pretending to pout, but unable to wipe the small smile from his lips. Especially at Liz’s affronted expression.

“Hey!” Liz exclaimed offended, “ No one is as bad as Zack.”

So focused on staying hidden from the 3 downstairs Michael didn’t notice the figure behind him until it was too late. Before he could react he had been knocked down and laid out on his stomach, one arm pinned above his head, and the other twisted and pinned to his back.

“What do we have here?” a decidedly feminine-husky voice asked slightly amused, but worried at what the spy had seen.

“Sonovabitch.” Michael grunted out, the wind knocked out of him, and a low to his ego at being taken down by some chick. ‘Damn she’s spry.’ Michael thought fleetingly, ‘and strong too.’ He twisted under her, forcing her to pin him down with her knees as well.

“That was rude.” She told him smirking though he couldn’t see it, her instincts telling her this guy wasn’t exactly a threat. Hearing approaching footsteps she released him. “Fun as it’s been darlin’, I have to go. Can’t have mah surprised ruined now can I?” she asked her voice changing to a southern drawl. Slipping out of the café before he cold stop her she turned to look back and caught a glimpse of her ‘victim’s’ face. She recognized him as one of Liz’s friends.

Before Michael had a chance to get up she was gone and a sweaty Alex emerged followed by an equally sweaty, bare-chested Kyle who was massaging his abdomen and a smug Liz brought up the rear.

“Michael?” Liz asked confused at why he was there, on the floor no less. She was worried he might have seen something they’d have to explain. “What are you doing here? And why are you on the floor?”

TBC

[TatiLoca]

AN:Thanx all for the fb! Thanx Gigo! Um so far it looks like Tess'll be gettin' an ass kickin'! Still need the reason so far 1 for bitchy. I'm leaning towards bitchy too then she'll be decent but it's up to you guys so...VOTE!

<center> . : : I : : . </center>
“I, uh, I…” Michael stuttered as he jumped up from his sprawled position on the back room floor. “I came by to uh, talk… YEAH, to talk to you!” he stumbled through the explanation, practically shouting the last part as his defense.

“Uh-huh. O-kay.’ Liz nodded as she spoke wondering what was up.

“Okay.” Michael parroted, “Right.” He nodded as if collecting himself, “Here goes. What was that down there? And why do you 3 have matching tattoos that look like barcodes?” Michael demanded.

“Wh-what?” Liz asked paling slightly, her hand instinctively drawn to the back of her neck “What are you talking about?”

“Alex and Kyle fighting. You kicking their asses.” He stated bluntly. “You calling Kyle little brother and him calling you sis.” Michael was on a roll now, “And who’s Zack?”

“Fuck!” Liz swore softly then noticed Michael’s stunned expression. “Yes Michael I do know how to cuss.” she snapped. “Were you spying?” she demanded incredulously, realizing he would have been watching awhile to catch all that.

Regaining his composure after the initial shock of Liz cussing at him, Michael quickly denied the obviously true accusation, “No! I came here to talk to you.” He argued defensively.

“So talk.” Liz told him shortly, still upset he’d been spying no matter how much he denied it, but more upset she hadn’t been able to tell he was there. ~ So much for enhanced senses! ~ she thinks sourly, she was unsure if she was even prepared to answer the questions she knows Michael will have.

“I, uh, well it’s private.” Michael mumbled looking at Alex and Kyle. “How the Hell did we never pick up on this? ~ he wonders for the first time really noticing the dynamics of the three.

Liz signaled for her brothers to leave out the side door motioning to the apartment stairs. The three exchange speaking glances, silent communication passes and they turn, reluctantly, to the door.

“No wait a sec.” Michael said suddenly back to what he’d witnessed earlier. “You never answered my questions. What was all that downstairs?” he asked again.

Seeing no other option but the truth, especially since he’d seen their barcodes, Kyle reluctantly begins to explain…


TBC

[TatiLoca]

<center> . : : II : : . </center>


“You see Guerin, it’s like this. You and your fellow Pod People weren’t the only ones created in a lab, or that the government would love to get their grubby hands on for that matter either. Though your green asses are the only ones that came out of pods.” Kyle smirked briefly, momentarily letting his recent hostility at the czechs behavior towards his sister color reflect in his attitude. “10 years ago we escaped from Manticore, a government funded lab facility that created DNA cocktails. A little of this, a little of that, and BAM! You get us. Genetically enhanced humans created to be the perfect soldiers. We’re transgenics.”

“You’re joking, right?” Michael snorted in disbelief.

“No,” Alex answered his voice lacking emotion for the first time as far as Michael could remember. “We were raised in Hell until 10 years ago. After a life of training and torture from birth we escaped and split up. And I’ll be damned if I go back.” Alex stated bluntly but his eyes flashed with an emotion Michael was not used to seeing in the normally easy going Alex before returning to their emotionless state once again.

“Michael,” Liz began drawing attention away from her older brother. “Michael you can’t say anything about this. Any of this. We’ve been hiding since the escape, building lives for ourselves, but one word to the wrong person. To any person could put Manticore back on our trails. Nothing about barcodes, Project Manticore, X-5’s, transgenics, or Alex, Kyle, and myself being related. The slightest suspicion will bring Manticore here and we’ll be running or risk capture.” Liz paused her face pained, “like Brin and Tinga.” She whispered softly. Recomposing herself she continued, “If you thought he FBI was bad, Lydecker is worse. Those agents had no idea what they were doing compared to him. Even the Skins, minus the whole powers thing, were child’s play.” Liz spoke fiercely. She needed Michael to understand how serious this was.

“You’re serious.” Michael stated as if he’d seen the light. Things now began clicking into place, “That’s how Kyle could follow us, how Alex hacked into the FBI database, why you were never scared, how you knew how to avoid the FBI, and break Maxwell out. How you survived jumping from that bridge.” Michael began stating things that randomly popped into his mind, “You’ve done this before.”

“Yes.” Kyle answered for them. “You’ve got choices now Guerin. One, you forget this night ever happened. You stay silent and none of this happened, you never saw a thing. Two, you again stay silent only this time we give you a more detailed explanation since you can’t keep your fat head out of anything. Or three you get the shit beat out of you if you so much as breathe a word of this to anyone. The choice is yours.” Kyle spoke so seriously, so calmly that Michael had no doubt that if he chose wrong not even his powers would save him an ass kicking.

“Why wait for details?” he asked picking option 2. His curiosity peaked at the new knowledge of his friends.

“Cause we want to know what you’re doing here at,” Alex glanced at his watch, “well now 12:45 am on a Friday night. Saturday morning, whatever.”

“I needed to talk to Liz.” Michael said fidgeting slightly. The reason for his visit making him nervous.

“That’s our cue to leave.” Alex said receiving a nod from his baby sister. “Let’s go Ky.” Alex ordered pushing his younger brother out the door.

“No way Wit. We gotta - mmph” Kyle began only to have his protests muffled by his brother’s hand clamped tightly over his mouth.

“Michael, just cause Liz can your ass on her own doesn’t mean we won’t as well if you hurt her in ANY way.” Alex warned, “She has several older brothers and sisters who would gladly kick your ass back to Antar.”

Gulping, Michael nodded remembering Alex packed a good punch and had been holding back in his ability to kick some ass if what he saw downstairs was any indication.

Hugging their sister good-bye Wit and Ky took their leave, once again becoming Alex and Kyle to the outside world. Liz smiled reassuringly before heading upstairs, Michael followed still absorbing what he saw downstairs.

“I’m gonna change. Make yourself comfortable and finish processing. I’ll be back in a few.” Liz told him leaving Michael alone in the living room to think.

Unsure of what to do Michael flipped on the TV, After 10 minutes of watching an infomercial about the Turbo Cooker Plus with the new Turbo Timer and stack rack system, he decided he should order one. Just as the number flashed onto the screen the TV went blank for a second then Eyes Only filled the screen.

<center>‘DO NOT ADJUST YOUR TELEVISION SET. THIS IS A STREAMING FREE VIDEO.
IT IS THE LAST FREE VOICE. IT CAN NOT BE TRACED. IT CAN NOT BE
BOUGHT. THE GOVERNMENT FACILITY HOUSING PROJECT MANTICORE WAS
BLOWN UP EARLIER TONIGHT. DIRECTOR RENFRO a.k.a. MADAME IS BELIEVED
TO BE ONE OF THE CASUALTIES IN THIS EXPLOSION. HER REPLACEMENT IS
RUMORED TO BE AMES WHITE. THIS HAS BEEN A STREAMING FREE VIDEO.
PEACE. OUT.’</center>

As the message played a series of numbers flashed across the bottom of the screen so fast no human eye could read them. Unless they had enhanced capabilities that is.

“Holy shit!” Liz exclaimed from the doorway. She’d seen the video as well as the numbers.

“Damn! Make some noise Liz, you scared the shit outta me!” Michael yelled the noticed Liz’s shocked expression. The screen returned to the previous infomercial, but Michael had lost all interest in ordering his own Turbo Cooker. “Hey, what’s up?” he asked concerned.

“They blew it up! OMG! They fucking blew it up!” Liz whispered excitedly still in shock.

The ringing of one of Liz’s cell phones stopped Michael from questioning her. Grabbing a phone Michael was sure he’d never seen before, Liz checked her caller ID before answering.

“Maxie?” Liz asked shakily.

“Hey little sister.” Max Guevara responded a bit shakily herself.

“Hey big sister. I haven’t heard from you since before…”

“I know. I’m sorry. You catch the Eyes Only broadcast?”

“Yeah. So it’s true?”

“Of course. You up for company there sis?”

“Sure. Mom and Dad are out of town for I don’t know how long. Who all?”

“Um, me, Logan, Alec. We-”

“Hold up. Who’s Alec?”

“A smart ass and fellow escapee. He helped me blow that pop stand. Lili, he’s Ben’s twin.”

“Ben?”

“Yeah Lili. Shut up Alec! Sorry ‘bout that sis.”

“No prob. ETA?”

“2100 hours. Give or take an hour.”

“Call me from the edge of town, at the welcome sign. I’ll meet you there. Want me to call Wit and Ky?”

“Nah. Surprise them. I’ll call the second Logan spots the sign.”

“Logan?”

“Yeah. With his vision we’ll arrive at the same time as you.”

Liz hears an affronted ‘I heard that’ coming from one of the passengers and recognizes the voice as Logan’s.

“Hey Logan. Um Maxie about Zack…” Liz trails off unsure.

“When we get there little sister.”

“See you soon then.”

“You know it.”

- c L I C k -
The second Liz hung up Michael pounced. Curiosity making him practically burst from the seams. “Well?” he asked expectantly.

Liz ignored him instead focusing on where her incoming guests would stay. “Hmm. I can’t have them around tourists too much. Or aliens.” She decides shooting a look at Michael before continuing to ignore him. “Don’t want to stick them in a motel. I guess they could stay here. I can put Alec in the attic or spare room depending on Maxie and Logan. Maybe Alec could go to a motel.” Liz wondered aloud not wanting to admit she wasn’t looking forward to seeing her dead brother’s twin.

“HELLO!” I’m still here.” Michael whined. “What’s going on?”

“Oh yeah huh. You’re still here. What Michael?” Liz asked impatiently.

“Who are these people you’re talking about? What’s going on?” he asked curiously. Strangers coming into town were rarely meant something good for them.

“Friends. What did you have to talk to me about?” Liz asked changing the subject. Just because Michael stumbled on their secret didn’t mean he was entitled to know everything.

TBC

[TatiLoca]

<center> . : : III : : . </center>

“Not so fast there little missy.” Michael scolded, seeming to channel Sheriff Valenti for a moment.

“Excuse me? Did you just say ‘little missy’ to me? Cause you know I’ll knock you flat on your ass right?” Liz asked trying not to laugh, but at the same time serious.

“Yeah well, so what?” Michael shrugged embarrassed at his words and sure Liz wouldn’t hesitate to do as she said.

“Michael, what did you need to talk about? I’m on a time limit now. So let’s get on with it.” Liz told him distractedly.

“Fine. Max and I were talking earlier and he told me about you saving our asses and stopping the end of the world. I, uh, I just wanted to say thanks. You didn’t have to but you did anyway. Even though we all were pretty shitty to you. Not everybody would’ve given up the love of their life to save a bunch of ungrateful aliens and a planet they’ve never seen.” Michael looked at the ground, as he spoke, having never shown so much emotion in his life to anyone other than his Pixie. “Thank you Liz.” He looked up and was surprised to see tears in Liz’s eyes.

“Your welcome Michael.” Liz managed before hugging him tightly. Michael stiffened momentarily before relaxing enough to lightly return the embrace.

“So how about you tell me about that phone call you got, on that phone I’ve never seen?” Michael asked gruffly once he’d pulled away. He wasn’t Stonewall Guerin for nothing after all.

“Family business.” Liz told him shortly. “Look Michael I realize you have questions but it needs to wait. I, we, really don’t want to involve you all in this.”

“Come on Liz how long do you expect to be able to hide all of this? Eventually you would have been found out!” Michael argued.

“No actually I wouldn’t have.” Liz told him hesitantly. Noticing Michael’s dubious glare she continued bitterness tainting her words, “Future Max. He noticed my barcode and asked questions. Apparently I told him I got it done with Alex and Kyle one night when we were drunk right after I turned 21. No one ever knew the truth Michael. Not even my own husband. He was surprised to find it 4 years before I was supposed to have got it.” She finished quietly.

“Oh” was Michael’s clever reply, he realized from Liz’s tone and pained expression how hard it was for her to find out how long she’d managed to keep this a secret. “Drunk?” he asked trying to lighten the mood.

“Yeah. Seems Max went out of town with you for a week and when he surprised me at home after 4 days he saw it. I’d told him I got drunk with Alex and Kyle and we decided to get tattoos. We figured it would be easier to explain that way.” Liz explained.

Michael just nodded his head unsure if anything he could say would make things better. How had she managed to lie to them all for so long? “Um, so now that I know about you guys I could help you know, if you need it.” Michael said non-committedly.

“Michael,” Liz sighed pinching the bridge of her nose, “You don’t need to be involved with this. You can’t be involved with this.”

“Oh come on Liz!” Michael exclaimed in disbelief, “How can you say that? We didn’t want you involved in all this either. But still you, yes you,” he stressed pointedly, “would not give up. You pushed and shoved your way into this and now look at us! You’ve helped us so much. All you guys did, but you especially Liz. We’d be lost without you. Let us help you. If not all of us then just me” he bargained, knowing trying to keep this a secret in their group would blow up in their faces. He could see her wavering and decided one more push was all he needed. “Come on Parker. Don’t you remember any of the things you’ve told Maxwell over the past 2 years? Take your own advice.”

“You pick now to decide I’m right.” Liz mumbled exasperated at Michael’s persistence, she knew he had her. “I have to talk to Ky and Wit,” she sighed dreading he coming conversation with her brothers.

Michael shrugged nonchalantly. “So are you gonna explain this all to me now?” he asked trying not to show how interested he was.

“Not all. We’ll see how it goes first. Now why were you on the floor earlier?” Liz asked baffled.

“Oh. That.” Michael scowled, “I came over to talk to you. I got worried when I heard a thud, so I followed the noise to the basement. Um I saw you guys fighting downstairs then all of a sudden I’m flat on my face with this chick on my back.”

“What chick? Michael the café was empty. We made sure everything was locked tight.” Liz jumped in.

“You sure Liz? I used my powers to get in but what about her. I didn’t sense she was an alien” he frowned but continued on, “So this chick’s on my back after knocking me down. She had this voice. I don’t know it was, I guess husky. Then she must’ve heard footsteps. She mentioned something about ruining a surprise. Her voice changed. She called me ‘darlin’…” he trailed off trying to remember every detail.

“Her voice changed? Like how to a southern drawl?” Liz asked focusing on that momentarily.

“Yeah. She didn’t have an accent at first. Then suddenly she does and then she’s gone.” Michael explained.

“This could be bad. Did she seem abnormally strong? How did she take you down? About how big was she? Did you see her at all?” Liz fired off questions not giving Michael a chance to answer them.

“Whoa! Take a breath. She was strong obviously. I’m not sure how she pinned me. One minute I’m standing, the next I’m checking how clean the floor is. With some chick on my back. She didn’t actually seem to be too big. She was pretty light. Can we keep this between us please?” Michael asked embarrassed now that he realized how small this girl was compared to him.

“Sure Michael. Could you tell anything else? Her approximate height?”

“Not really, but I don’t think she was too much taller than you, but definitely not as tall as Isabel.”

“Hmm. Well how did she pin you?”

“Um, she knocked me down at my shoulders…and pretty much straddled my ass. One arm was pinned above my head the other twisted and pinned to the middle of my back.”

“O.k. nothing too fancy there. So how was it? Being taken down by some girl?” Liz smirked.

“Bite me Parker.” Michael growled, obviously not amused.

“Ooh, feisty Guerin.”

“Shut. Up.”

“Alright. Joking aside this could be bad. There’s some ‘chick’ as you so eloquently put it, running around Roswell who could have possibly seen things she shouldn’t have. Who can break into the CrashDown without alerting anyone. Fuck.” Liz swore rubbing her temples.

“Maybe it was one of your sisters?” Michael asked hopefully.

TBC

[TatiLoca]

check out my awesome banner by nikkisue! Isn't it GREAT! Huge thank you to her for this one as well as the one for Ordinary Day!!!


<center> IV </center>

<center> . : : : TRANSITIONAL : : : . </center>

Kyle is home meditating. He knows something big is going on, he just hasn’t figured out his role in it yet. Things are going to change very soon, but he’s unsure how the outcome will affect him as well as his siblings. Clearing his mind he focuses on reaching maintaining his inner balance, lately it seemed to be shifting too much. A prickling sensation on the back of his neck alerts him to the fact he isn’t alone. The heat of the gaze as well as his superior sense of smell let him know that it’s Tess and not his father. Ignoring her, he re-focuses his attention on his breathing. For all the drama she caused since arriving and the stress she put Liz through, she could stare all she wanted he wasn’t turning around.

Tess slips back to her room dejected. She’d thought for sure Kyle would be home earlier, but he hadn’t. She’d locked herself in her room all night contemplating her options. No matter what she did she would lose something, what would be the right sacrifice? She’d snorted at the thought of sacrifice, she knew nothing of sacrifice. Not like Liz did. It seemed everyone knew about Future Max now, only she wasn’t supposed to. No one told her and she had a feeling why. They thought she’d throw ‘Destiny’ in their faces. Again. Staring at the ceiling she again reviewed her options: Continue her relentless, stalker-ish, psychotic pursuit of Max knowing he’d never love her, she’d lose Kyle’s friendship, and be hated by everyone else. Let go of her obsession and possibly salvage the relationships she’d worked so hard to destroy as well as be apart of a real family. The answers should be simple, but the consequences she’s faced with seem overpowering. She sighs again, Kyle had barely gotten home around 1:30 in the morning and was now meditating. She had no idea where he had been before and most likely he wouldn’t tell her. The closeness they had developed all but died since THAT NIGHT. As she’d taken to referring to the night she let Liz tell her how to catch Max’s attention. Blinking back tears she buried herself under the blankets, still undecided on her place in everything.

At the Whitman’s Alex is falling asleep. While he doesn’t need a lot of sleep, he enjoys his approximate 4 to 5 hours immensely. Though not like Kyle who craves 6 hours but most often gets 5 or Liz who is fully functional after 3 hours. Settling in he briefly wonders if Isabel has tried dreamwalking him lately. He could usually tell if she was dreamwalking him. After the first time she’d told him about her ability to enter a person’s subconscious he’d started to recognize the signs. He was glad she hadn’t seen any of his Manticore nightmares, he trained himself to push those as deep into the far corner of his mind. Mentally shrugging the stray thought away he closed his eyes attempting to sleep, things were going to happen soon. He could feel it, this was only the calm before the storm so to speak.

Across town at the Evan’s, Isabel is asleep. Instead of dreamwalking she is the one dreaming. Her head filled with visions of a happy future, all involving a certain tall bass player. In her dream world she doesn’t have to worry about anything, least of all the unease she’s been feeling the past few days. The only thing she has to worry about is if the kids interrupt her and her husband. Leaning her head on his shoulder she sighs contentedly, as he twirls her around the dance floor she looks into his deep blue eyes smiling at the love in them, realizing how good it is to be her. After 10 years of marriage she still feels as if they’re on their honeymoon, it’s wonderful being Isabel Amanda Whitman.

In the next room over Max is lying in bed staring at the ceiling. While in Vegas Liz finally told him the truth about Future Max. Instead of working on a way to be together though, she’d told they could only be friends. Only ever friends. It was like losing her all over again. As long as Tess still felt her place was insecure they had to keep the truth from her as well. With a sigh of frustration and longing Max got up and got dressed. Things couldn’t stay this way. He needed Liz too much, Tess be damned! Then realizing those thoughts wouldn’t help he took a deep breath. He needed to clear his head. Quietly he slipped out the window knowing everything was about to change.

Back at the Parker’s Liz has just explained a bit of the details of being an X-5. She gave the barest of details regarding life at Manticore, it wasn’t something she cared to remember. Telling Michael who escaped, who was out there, and who had been recaptured was difficult enough without going into details about how they grew up. While she wishes Max could know the truth, she fears him finding out all the same. As it passes 2 in the morning she tells Michael to hit the road, she’d like to get her 3 hours in now rather than try layer when she knows she’ll be busy. She doesn’t however tell Michael the unease she feels. Things are going to get complicated, as if they ever weren’t.

Realizing the time Michael takes his leave, barely missing Max who as usual ended up beneath Liz’s balcony. Not having brought his bike, Michael begins walking. He takes a detour to pass Maria’s house and peeks in her window. She’s asleep and dreaming good dreams if her expression is correct. Staring a moment longer he turns to head back to his apartment. He’s still processing everything he learned and is wondering how the hell Maxwell never figured any of this out, especially with his obsession with Liz since the 3rd grade. Alex and Kyle were another story all together, it did explain a lot though. Suddenly he paused mid-step, everything alien inside of him, every soldier instinct he had went on full alert.

At the Roswell Crash Inn a 5’5 17 year old with honey brown hair and soft brown eyes is stretching as she towel dries her hair. Her reasons for coming to this small ass town are unknown, even to herself. She smirks as she remembers the guy she tackled earlier. She hopes she distracted him enough and that he hadn’t seen anything he shouldn’t have. Making sure everything is locked and her bag is within reach she gets ready for bed knowing if all goes as planned, which it rarely does, she’ll have a long day. Briefly wondering if Liz realizes she’d broken in through her window she hopes she hadn’t freaked out too much. Shaking her head as if to clear it from her continuous thoughts she settles in bed hoping to wake up early enough to get a head start with her plans.

Driving along the deserted highway Max looks briefly to her right. Logan is asleep. Finally. Their reunion was bittersweet. The virus injected into her blood had nearly killed Logan. Luckily Alec ended up coming through and helped get the antidote, as well as the cure for her. Sighing quietly she hopes things will work out for her and Logan. The virus would be out of her system soon and she only had 2 more injections to give herself. Refocusing her attention on the road she wonders what Roswell will be like. She’s never been there, but Lili, Ky, and Wit settled there. Zack briefly mentioned how small it was and that they were together without telling her which town they were in.

In the backseat staring at the stars, Alec is pondering life. He knows Manticore wasn’t the greatest, okay it was hell on earth, but it was stable. How will he fit in out in the real world and everyday life? Sure he knows the basics, that was part of his training, but he’s a soldier. What if that’s all he knows?

TBC

[TatiLoca]

<center> V</center>

Max stares up at Liz’s balcony. He knows she’s there, he can feel her presence like a beacon to guide him home. “She’s my home.” He says quietly into the dark morning. “Even if we’re never together again, she’ll always be my home.” He whispers to the stars above not knowing Liz can actually hear him.

<center> find me here
speak to me
i want to feel you
i need to hear you
you are the light
that is leading me
to the place where
i find peace again </center>

And suddenly she’s there. The moonlight casting an ethereal glow, creating a silver halo. “An angel,” Max breathes spellbound, ~ she’s an angel. ~ he thinks in awe as he gazes up at her.

<center> you are the strength
that keeps me walking
you are the hope
that keeps me trusting
you are the life to my soul
you are my purpose
you are everything
and how can i
stand here with you
and not be moved by you
would you tell me
how could it be
any better than this</center>

“Max…” Liz’s soft voice called down quietly, puzzled as to why he’s there, like he used to be. Before. She’d heard what he’d said. Enhanced hearing had its moments. Silence followed, he obviously hadn’t anticipated she’d still be up.

“Liz, I…I had to see you.” Max told her breaking the silent night. “I need you Liz.”

<center> you calm the storms
you give me rest
you hold me in your hands
you won't let me fall
you still my heart
and you take my breath away
would you take me in
would you take me deeper now</center>

Staring down at him, Liz knew whatever she said next would set the course of the rest of their lives, be it together or separately. The expression on his face pulled at her heart strings, the simplicity of his statement bringing back memories of a time when life was far less complicated. Staring into Max’s amber eyes she couldn’t remember her reasons for them to stay apart. “Max,” she paused hesitantly, “come on up.”

<center> and how can i
stand here with you
and not be moved by you
would you tell me
how could it be
any better than this
and how can i
stand here with you
and not be moved by you
would you tell me
how could it be
any better than this</center>

Searching her doe brown eyes for doubt, Max quickly ascended the ladder. He knew instinctually that things were about to change yet again.

Licking her suddenly dry lips Liz speaks first, “Very impressive.”

“I try.” Max replies automatically, his gaze trained to Liz’s lips as her watches her little pink tongue make an appearance. He reaches forward brushing back a stray lock of her silken hair. “You had a, uh....” he trails off as their eyes meet.

“Hair thing, right. Thanks.” Liz continues for him slightly breathless.

“Sure.” An overwhelming sense of déjà vu begins to come over them.

Taking a step forward Max cupped Liz’s face in his hands, his eyes searching hers desperately, needing to know if he’d crossed any lines in their ‘friendship’. “I’m going to kiss you in 5 seconds. If you don’t want me to then you need to tell me to walk away.” Max told her softly. “5, 4, 3, 2, 1.” he breathed across her lips. He gently brushed his lips across hers, reacquainting himself with their fullness, pulling back just enough to know if Liz was still with him before settling his mouth more firmly against hers. He traced his tongue along Liz’s lips before pulling away, “Liz, baby please,” he rasped out, “Open up for me. Let me taste you.” He pleaded before taking her mouth in another passionate kiss. Their tongues tangling, caressing, as if no time had passed since their last kiss.

To Max it was coming home. A sense of rightness and belonging like nothing else. For Liz it was also the feeling of belonging, but mixed with guilt over the lies she’d told and secrets she’d kept. The sense of being home far outweighed the guilt, but it was still there.

<center> 'cause you're all i want
you are all i need
you are everything
everything
you're all i want
you are all i need
you are everything
everything
you're all i want
you are all i need
you are everything
everything
you're all i want
you are all i need
you are everything
everything
you're all i want
you are all i need
you are everything
everything</center>

Moving his hands from Liz’s cheeks, Max wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her body flush with his. Not an inch of space separated them. Liz’s hands weren’t idle either. One hand played with the soft hairs at the nape of Max’s neck while the other gripped his shoulder, tight enough to keep her balance while loosely enough she wouldn’t hurt him. Slowly their lips separated, as air became a necessity. For Max anyway. Eyes still closed he rested his forehead against Liz’s he spoke breathlessly, “I love you Liz Parker.”

Opening her eyes to meet his shining ones Liz gazed up at Max, his soul was so good even after all they’d been through together as well as separately. How could she continue lying to him? “I love you too Max. So much, -” Liz started only to be cut off.

“No buts. Not tonight. Well this morning actually.” He pointed out noticing it was nearing 3 a.m. “Don’t think right now, just feel. Everything else can wait for now.” He took in the strawberry scent of her hair, pulling her closer, their bodies fitting perfectly. “I need to feel you in my arms right now, o.k.?” he asked a bit uncertainly.

“I need to be in your arms.” Liz answered before pulling back enough to see his face yet remain in his embrace. “Can you stay?” He nodded in response as she led him to her bed.

“Um…” he started, “Should I?”

“Max,” she sighed lovingly, “ditch the pants and get in bed.” She patted the spot next to her and giggled at his shocked expression.

“Ye-ah” he cleared his throat hoping his voice wouldn’t crack again. “Yeah.” He self-consciously stepped out of his pants stumbling when he realized he hadn’t taken off his shoes yet. He blushed then warily eyed the bed and its occupant.

“It’s fine don’t worry so much.” Liz told him amused, then gestured to her own sleepwear, a slightly more feminine pair of boxers. “I sleep in my boxers too. Turn off the light Max.”

“Good night Liz.” Max murmured into her hair as he pulled her into his arms and kissed the crown of her head.

“Good night Max.” Liz whispered against his chest kissing him in response.

<center> and how can i
stand here with you
and not be moved by you
would you tell me
how could it be
any better than this
and how can i
stand here with you
and not be moved by you
would you tell me
how could it be
any better than this
and how can i
stand here with you
and not be moved by you
would you tell me
how could it be
any better than this
would you tell me
how could it be
any better than this</center>

Exhausted the two fall asleep, neither sure of what the future now holds. One determined to never let go, the other praying for the strength to do so if necessary. Both content to be in the arms of their love and together dreaming of their future. A sense of freedom takes hold, freedom to be together, to finally do what was right for them, not something supposedly right for a planet they’d never seen.

[TatiLoca]

<center> VI </center>

Waking up Liz realized 1) her pillow was warm and moving, 2) her pillow was indeed a person, and 3) that person was Max who was still sleeping. A quick glance at the clock next to her made her blink in disbelief. ~ I slept 6 hours! I never sleep that long ~ she thought, but recalled the emotionally stressful night she’d had.

Propping herself up on an elbow she gazed at Max’s sleeping form. Gently brushing his bangs she spoke softly, afraid to wake him, “I never can resist you can I? I love you too much to let myself stand in the way, yet, you continue to come back to me. Why won’t you let me let go?” her hand traced across his brow, down his nose, to rest softly against his cheek. He twitched slightly and she knew he was now awake.

“Because I’m nothing without you.” Max answered her, his eyes still closed. He’d woken at her first touch, but feigned sleep as she continued. Max opened his eyes gazing at her raised form, “I love you too much to let you go. I need you more than air, I’m selfish enough to know I’ll never be whole without you, so I keep coming back for you.” He told her as he brought one hand to cup her cheek, the other holding her palm captive where it lay on his cheek. “I love you Liz and I’m never letting you go again. Nothing matters more than you!” he swore passionately his voice hoarse as he continued, “You’re my home Liz.”

“Max…” she began, “Max there’s so much to discuss. So much I need to say.”

“Shh.” He placed a finger over her lips. “We’ll work it out. Just give me one more minute of peace with you. The real world will be coming to bite me in the ass soon enough. It’s been so long Liz. So long since I held you.” Max half-pleaded with her.

Nodding in understanding Liz laid back down, her head resting on Max’s chest, their arms holding each other.

Max gently ran a hand through her hair knowing they needed to talk. He opened his mouth and the words just poured out. “I saw you on the first day of 3rd grade. You were standing with Maria and I was captivated. Still am actually. I began to fall in love with you that day. Looking at you across the playground I felt I could tell you anything, that you would understand me.” Max paused briefly, “Over the years I fell more in love. Watching you from the shadows, loving you as you grew up. I couldn’t be part of your life so I settled for watching…Then the shooting happened and you were there. I’d never been so scared in my life! You were shot and I,” again Max paused this time pulling Liz closer, until she was practically on top of him. “After I saved you, it was so hard to stay away. I’d loved you for so long and then you were a part of my life, a real part. It was all my dreams come true, but at the same time scared the hell out of me.” He admitted placing a kiss in her hair.

“Max, I noticed you that day. You stepped off the bus and I was drawn to you. I watched you too. In a way I kind of fell in love with you too. Not that I realized it at the time.” Liz told him placing a kiss over his heart. So many thoughts ran through her head. She knew after last night if their relationship were to continue the truth would need to be told. Secrets would just tear them apart. She remembered the look on Future Max’s face when he saw her barcode…

“All I ever wanted was you. Every dream. You. I can’t be without you anymore Liz. I’m useless. An ineffective leader, but when I’m with you… You make me want to be a better man.” Max smiled softly quoting , Jack Nicholson in ‘As Good As It Gets’.

“Max…” Liz began but trailed off uncertainly, would he still love her if he knew? “There’s things I’ve done. Things I’m not proud of. Things I’ve never told anyone…” Liz whispered sitting on the edge of the bed and looking away.

A feeling of foreboding settled deep in Max’s stomach. What could she have done that would affect their future? Cause her shame? Sitting up he moved to fit his body behind hers, “No matter what’s happened in the past I will still love you.” He promised whole-heartedly.
“I can’t tell you yet. Soon though I promise.” Liz allowed her body to relax against his briefly.

“So are we back together?” he asked softly kissing her bare shoulder, before laying his head against the smooth skin.

Silence followed his question, as Liz ran her options silently. She’d already changed the future, Tess was still around, and if she selfishly split Ava would comeback. Realizing she’d been quiet too long she stood. “Before I answer that I have to tell you some things. But I can’t tell you without telling the others it involves.” Seeing his hurt expression she stepped closer to him, cupping his cheek. “I love you Max Evans. I want to be with you, but first I have to be able to be completely honest with you. And I have to take care of a few things.”

“It’s never easy for us is it?” he asked laughing as he pulled her even closer to him, until she stood fully in his embrace.

“Would you want it to be?” she asked neutrally. If he answered yes it would change everything.

“I would rather you didn’t get hurt, but I wouldn’t want our relationship to be easy. If it were than it wouldn’t be us.” He knew that if he answered that one wrong it would be the end of their relationship. He looked up to gauge her response and smiled in relief.

Liz was smiling, happy with what he said. “Good answer.” She told him brushing a quick kiss across his lips. “Now get up, get dressed, and get out of here!”

“I think I need a good morning kiss first.” Max murmured falling back on the bed, pulling a shrieking Liz down with him. He ran a thumb across her full lips.

“Max…” Liz tried to admonish after her rather undignified shriek.

“Liz…” Max said growled back as he pulled her to his lips ever so slowly.

“Oh fuck it!” Liz mumbled attacking Max’s lips with her own, as he let out his own undignified shriek.

[TatiLoca]

Special thanks to Mel a.k.a. Latinchic for helping me finish this stubborn part up. *Hugs* Dedicated to the Stargazers. Let me know if it meets your approval.


<center>XII</center>

Staring at the computer screen in front of him Alex frowns in concentration. He’s used every bit of Manticore’s technology training to make his computer untraceable and hacker-proof. Currently he was looking up information on recent FBI activity.

“Alex, you have a visitor!” he heard his mom call from the front door.

“Okay Ma!” Alex yelled back. His mom always announced visitor’s giving him time to make sure his barcode was hidden, and if necessary hide whatever he may be working on. Minimizing the window he’d been studying, Alex made his way down to the living room. At the top of the stairs he froze. ~ Damn enhanced senses. ~ The scent of Isabel’s perfume wafted up to him. ~ I really don’t need another ‘Alex you’re such a good friend’ speech. ~ Shaking his head he continued down the steps. “Hey Isabel. What’s up?” he asked entering the room.

Isabel stood up abruptly wiping her palms on her jeans. “Hey Alex. Can we talk?” she asked nervously. Ever since they got back from Vegas things has been strained between them.

“Sure. Let’s go up to my room. Want something to drink?” Alex paused by the kitchen expectantly.

“Orange soda?” Isabel asked smiling slightly.

Cocking an eyebrow Alex questioned teasingly, “On the rocks?”

“Definitely.” Isabel answered her smile wavering a bit. ~ What if he doesn’t… ~ she started to think but cut off that line of thought ruthlessly.

“Go on up. I’ll just be a sec.” Alex told her, reading her nervousness. Locating the orange soda he opened the freezer and laughed. There sat 2 glasses with ice, waiting for him. “Thanks mom!” he called towards the den.

“Your welcome sweetie!” Mel Whitman called back to her son. Glad to be able to help, even if it was in a small way.

Shaking his head at the smile he could hear in his mom’s voice, Alex made his way up to his room. “So what’s up?” Alex asked upon entering his room. He turned to find Isabel staring at a picture of them nostalgically. “Bel?” the old nickname slipped free without thought.

“I, uh, I was just…I miss you!” Isabel blurted out.

“Come again?” Alex asked dumbfounded.

“I miss you Alex. Since this crazy thing started you’ve become my best friend. I don’t want to lose that. I couldn’t bear it. You’ve become my anchor, literally in some cases,” she smiled in remembrance of him holding her as she dreamwalked so she wouldn’t get lost, “And then I went and fell in love with you! God how classic is that? Falling in love with your best friend. I didn’t even mmph-” the rest of her sentence was lost in Alex’s kiss.

*FLASH*
5th grade. The new boy in school was getting picked on. She wants to help him, but remembers she’s different. She sees that Lizzie Parker girl Max stares at and that Maria girl Michael always fought with help him. He’s safe.
*FLASH*
6th grade. A lot of kids are starting to ‘go out’. She wonders if Alex is going with anyone. He’s always with goody-good Liz Parker and that loud Maria De Luca. Would he go with her? She’s going to talk to him she decides. Then Wendy kisses him. She turns away.
*FLASH*
8th grade. She can control her dreamwalking now. What does Alex dream about? She sees him look at her sometimes. She picks up a picture of him, but hesitates, Max says it’s an invasion of privacy.
*FLASH*
10th grade. She talked to Liz about Alex. She already knows he can be trusted, but for some reason the reassurance helps. She’ll look into it later on.
*FLASH*
He’s dreaming of her. She watches in awe as Alex dances with her dream self. The words he speaks, she can tell they’re sincere. A tear drips down her face. Maybe Alex really could love her. All of her.
*FLASH*
She’s standing in a darkened corner of the Soap Factory crying. How did it all go wrong? He thought she would use her body to keep him quiet? Was she wrong about him? Her heart says no she wasn’t. She waves a hand over her face leaving no evidence of her tears. The Ice Princess is back.
*FLASH*
Max told her what Liz did. What she gave up. All she can think is where was Alex? He couldn’t be… No she won’t allow it. Determination fills her. She will not lose Alex! Khivar, Vilandra, Destiny, Tess, Antar be damned! She’ll protect him with everything she has.
*END FLASHES*

“Wh-what. Was. Th-that?” Alex rasps. Did he see? Could Isabel have given him flashes?

“Did you?” Isabel asks breathlessly, “I wanted…Did it? Did you?” she stutters then gathers her resolve and yells, “I love you Alex Whitman! And I want to be with you!” She takes in his completely shocked expression and almost laughs. “Did it work?”

“Yes.” Alex finally breathes, “Yes it worked. Yes I love you. Yes I want to be with you!” he tells her firmly not hesitating a moment in his decision.

Seeing and hearing his absolute certainty, Isabel threw herself into Alex’s arms, knocking them to the floor.

“I meant what I said Alex.” Isabel tells him tearfully. “You’re stuck with me. From now on it’s you and me.” She warns as a bright smile shows through her happy tears.

“Sounds good to me Bel. I love you.” Alex told her grinning as he wiped away her tears.

Sitting up, Isabel scooted back so she sat on Alex’s thighs. She pulled him into a sitting position and took a deep breath. “I know I already told you I want to be with you-” she began, but Alex interrupted her.

“I know Bel. I want to be with you too.” He assured her, wanting to ease any doubts.

Placing a finger to Alex’s lips, she continued as if he’d never interrupted her, “And I want everyone to know we’re together.” Pulling out a small velvet box she continued, “Alexander Charles Whitman will you wear my ring and accept my promise to love you?” carefully she snaps open the box, presenting the contents to him.

“Isabel Diane Evans, I’d be honored.” Alex tells her shakily. He notices 2 rings in the box before Isabel distracts him. She lifts, the more masculine, simple band out and slips it on the ring finger of Alex’s right hand.

“They’re a matching set,” she explained. “This one is mine,” she gestures to the more feminine ring and he carefully lifts it out, slipping it on her hand.

“Bel…” Alex trails off as he notices the detail on the rings. His ring, a thick Titanium band, was engraved with leaves. Isabel’s, a thinner band, had rosebuds.

“I did it with my powers,” she told him softly, “Do you like it?”

“No.” Alex whispered softly. “I love it. Thank you.”

“Your welcome.” Isabel tells him as they lean in for a kiss…

[TatiLoca]

Thanks to KatnotKath, roswellluver , creative nickname! Trude thanks, I thought an explaination might help, and as for fixing the sodas, a mother knows. The truth comes out...eventually.

<center>IIX</center>

Tess peered around the corner, watching Kyle as he began his morning meditation. She absently tugged at her favorite article of clothing. An old worn shirt of Kyle’s.

“Can I help you Tess?” Kyle asked without opening his eyes. He’d known she was watching him, he always knew. “Is this an alien thing? You know watching human?” he asked referring to Max’s favorite past time of staring at Liz, Michael’s hobby of watching Maria, and Isabel’s newfound joy in Alex-gazing.

“Uh, hi?” Tess asked coming away from her spot behind the wall. “Morning!” she smiled brightly, “How are you?” she asked trying to convey nonchalance, picking at invisible lint on her shirt.

“Fine.” Kyle answered in an even voice, inwardly grinning. “You?” he asked abandoning his meditation.

“Good. Good.” Tess bit her lip trying to stop the question that ached to spill forth. It didn’t work. “So, what’d you do last night?” she winced at the desperate note in her voice.

“Not much. Hung out.” Kyle answered biting back a laugh. He knew she couldn’t resist asking. He stood up and stretched while asking, “How ‘bout you?”

“Huh?” Tess shook her head, the sight of Kyle’s muscular body momentarily distracted her. “Noth- nothing. Stayed home.” She contemplated asking who he was with and before she could stop herself, she’d blurted out, “So who were you with?”

“Hmm? What does it matter Tess? I was with some friends.” Kyle narrowed his eyes. ~ She’s not…jealous is she? ~ he asked himself. Seeing the embarrassed blush suffuse her cheeks and the indignation in her cerulean orbs he inwardly cheers. ~ HA! She is jealous! ~

“It doesn’t!” Tess shot back unconvincingly. “I just wondered okay? We haven’t talked in a long time. Not like we used to before…” that night with Liz, the night I stupidly chose Max, the words stay lodged in her throat. She couldn’t say them, knowing what she now knew, she couldn’t tell him. “Forget it. Forget I said anything!” she turned to go, to stomp from the room, but Kyle’s voice stopped her.

“Damn it Tess! You can’t keep doing this. Every time things are about to get serious you run.” Kyle called after her. “What are you so scared of?”

“Not a damn thing Valenti!” Tess turned to face him, eyes filled with fire, “I’m not scared of anyone or anything!” she denied as she advanced on him.

“Then, Tess, why do you run? Away from emotion, away from yourself,” Kyle stepped closer, “Away from me,” he gently brushed a blonde curl away, smirking at her barely audible gasp, the aroused blush creeping onto her cheeks. “Why do you run away from me darlin’?”

Tess stared into Kyle’s baby blues, her heart pounding. She let her hand graze his bare back down to his boxers, “So you can catch me.” With that she snapped the waistband of Calvins and sprinted to her room laughing.

Kyle stared after her grinning, “Ill catch you one day Tess!” he called to her. “But when I do, I’m not letting you go.” Kyle murmured to himself. Someday Tess Harding would love him just as much as he loved her.

Leaning against the door Tess smiled to herself. Catching a glance at her reflection, her smile unconsciously grew. Her cheeks were flushed, her eyes sparkling and warm, and her hair tousled. She looked…happy. Well a bit a bit ravished too, which unfortunately hadn’t happened. She smoothed her hair back and brought a hand to her still pink cheek. “I look happy,” she marveled stepping closer to the mirror. “I look alive,” she whispered to her reflection wonder in her voice. “I am happy.”