A Change of Heart (UC, Z/L, AU, Mature) COMPLETE

[Skittles1983]

A Change of Heart

Author: Amy

Disclaimer: The characters of "Roswell" belong to Jason Katims, Melinda Metz, WB & UPN. They are not mine and no infringement is intended.

Couple: Zan/Liz

Rating: Mature

Summary: Takes place after Future Max has visited Liz. Liz discovered that Tess was mindwarping and Alex to help her decode the Destiny book. Tess was stopped but in the midsts of this revelation another secret has come out: Max and Tess slept together one night when they were trying to remember their past lives on Antar. The whole group is shaken to it's core. Max and Tess are the outcasts and they are being treated accordingly. Liz knows that she can't let things get out of control because Future Max told her Tess was important to their survival. She has no choice but to tell everyone the truth about Future Max. Liz decides after graduation she needs to get away, so she decides it's time to go check out NYC and visit Ava.


Part 1

Liz went through the circle of her friends saying goodbye to each one. Liz, Michael, Maria, Kyle, Alex, and Isabel had all grown exceptionally close over the past few months. After the group learned of Tess's betrayal, Max's screw up, and Liz's sacrifice things were tense. Liz had told all of them including Tess and Max about Future Max's visit. She was so hurt by Max, but she knew it was time for the truth because Tess was needed in Roswell. The months after learning that Tess had mindwarped Alex were filled with distrust, but Liz knew that Tess was intrigual to everyone's survival, so she did what she had to do. Max and Tess were not together but nobody could trust Tess or Max.
Maria, Liz, and Isabel had gotten closer than ever. Michael was disappointed by Max's actions, so he grew closer with Alex and Kyle.
One night, two weeks before graduation Liz decided it was time for her to get away. She would return in late August and attend Roswell University with everyone else, but she wanted the summer to herself. She was sick and tired of all the stress and heartache. Liz pulled out a piece of paper out of her biology notebook and wrote a letter to Ava. She wanted to know if she could stay with her for the summer. Liz waited anxiously for a reply and didn't tell anyone what she was planning until she received one. Her response came a week later. In the letter Ava said she couldn't wait for her to come visit even if it sounded cornball. Liz was ecstatic.
She broke the news to her parents first. They were actually very supportive. They only wanted Liz to be happy. Liz then called a group meeting that did not include Max and Tess. She broke the news gently to everyone. At first they were shocked, but quickly supported Liz in her decision. They knew the amount of stess she had been going through. She promised to call one of them at least once a day.
These were the events that led up to the goodbye at the airport. Maria was last in line for a hug and kiss goodbye. Both girls had tears in their eyes. Maria broke the silence, "You better call me as soon as you land and at the first sight of any hot guys." She winked at Liz.
Liz laughed, "I promise."
They shared one final group hug and Liz walked into the terminal to her awaiting flight.
Liz breathed out a sigh of relief as she closed her eyes after she sat down. Originally, Liz had planned on taking the bus to NYC. However, two days before she was leaving she got a package from Ava. Inside she found a one way ticket to NYC and an open ticket back to Roswell, for whenever she decided to leave. Also, she found an address written on a piece of paper and a one hundred dollar bill with a post it note that said, "Money for a cab".
Liz drifted off to sleep wondering what Ava had been doing these past few months to be able to afford two plane tickets and a one hundred dollar bill for cab money.
She was awoken several hours later by the old woman sitting next to her. "Dear, we're landing in a few minutes." The woman smiled.
Liz couldn't help but smile back, "Thanks."
Liz sat up and rubbed her eyes. She pulled her hair into a messy ponytail and sighed. She couldn't wait to get up and stretch. She looked out the window at the scenary below and watched as the plane landed.
Thirty minutes later Liz was haling a cab and on her way toward the address on the paper.

[Skittles1983]

Liz watched the scenery pass by. So, this is the city, Liz thought.
The scenery around her faded as she thought about Max. She had decided that Max Evans would always be her first love. Her first kiss, her first love, the first boy she gave her heart to, but she knew that there was someone else out there for her. Someone who would change her life and make her a better person as she got older. Someone who would challenge her and love her no matter what. Someone who she could grow with and learn from. Max Evans was not this person, she knew this now. She still missed him, but it was their friendship she missed. She hoped that one day they could get it back.
Liz was so wrapped up in her thoughts that she didn't notice the cab stop. The cab driver cleared his throat loudly and brought Liz out of her reverie.
"Oh, I'm sorry. How much do I owe you?" She asked.
She paid the cab driver and slung her bag over her shoulder. She looked up at the building in front of her. The sign read '47'.
"Interesting." Liz said outloud to herself.
She looked into the darkened shop. It appeared to be closed. Liz looked at the door and read the sign : Closed due to remodeling. Will reopen on May 31st.
Hmm, that's in two days, Liz thought. She looked around very confused and looked at the address on the building. It matched the address on the paper, so with a shrug Liz tried the door handle and much to her surprise it was unlocked.
She walked in cautiously. She looked around at what appeared to be a freshly painted tattoo parlor. She saw a light coming from the back and could hear voices. She was scared of tripping and the room was kind of creepy, so she didn't want to leave the doorway. She yelled out for Ava. Within thirty seconds the room she was standing in was bathed in light and Ava appeared from a back room.
"Liz, I'm so glad to see you. I need another chick around here." Ava smiled at her.
Liz just laughed as she pulled Ava into a hug. Before they could break apart a throat cleared behind them. Ava pulled back and turned to look at the intruder. She felt Liz stiffen at the sight of a very alive Zan.
"Um, Liz this is Zan. Zan this is Liz."
Liz couldn't move for a few seconds but when she regained her composure she said, "You're dead."
Zan didn't say anything. He just continued to stare at her.
Ava stepped forward and took control, "Liz, Zan didn't die. When I got back here he was waiting for me."
Liz just nodded. They definitely had catching up to do. Once again Ava broke the silence, "How about we go upstairs to our apartment and you can um, catch your breath."
Ava took off into the back area of the shop. Liz went to follow but as she brushed by Zan he grabbed her arm and said, "I'll carry your bag for you Sweets." Liz instantly felt a connection as soon as he touched her but she choose to ignore it...for now.
Zan watched a range of emotions run across Liz's face. He felt the connection too but didn't want to scare her. His heart melted when she smiled up at him and said, "Thanks."
He took her bag and led the way up to their apartment, thinking, This is going to be interesting.
Liz followed him up the stairs and checked him out. Oh I am so in trouble this summer. This is going to be interesting.

[Skittles1983]

Hi, Sorry for the delay. Hope you enjoy. Please let me know what you think. Thanks!!

Part 3
A week had passed since Liz had come to New York and she fell more and more in love with the city each day. That first night had been tough. Liz kept her promises to call Maria and then she settled in with Ava in the living room. Zan had apparently gone to work some more on remodeling the tattoo shop which left the two girls to themselves. Ava had filled Liz in on what had happened when she came back to New York. Ava told Liz that she had planned to come back, get her stuff and go explore the world. She had had a pleasant surprise in the form of a very much alive Zan. While Ava had been gone Zan had decided that he was going to open a tattoo shop and he had. He had bought a building and moved into the three apartment bedroom above the shop. He had a good business by the time Ava had returned and she became his partner. They had grown into a routine over the past few months and Ava told Liz that she had seen Zan in a new light: as her friend. She knew that they were not destined to be together. Liz who had been listening intently didn’t know why she felt so relieved when Ava had told her that she and Zan were nothing more than friends.
She didn’t have too much time to think about it before it was her turn to confide in Ava. She told her everything and by the time she was done it was three a. m. Zan had come in in the middle of Liz’s story. He earned a shy nod from Liz and wave from Ava and then the girls had gone back to their conversation.
All three had fallen into a routine over the past week. They all got up about nine, Zan would cook breakfast for the girls, they’d watch some TV, take showers, and then Zan and Ava would take Liz to a different museum every day. Afterwards, they’d go back to the Tattoo shop and open it up. Liz loved to watch Zan and Ava tattoo people. She was surprised at the crowd of people who came to the grand re-opening. Both Ava and Zan were booked for the day and everyone who came in made appointments for the upcoming weeks. Liz would make dinner for them and Ava would come up first and then send Zan up when she was done. Liz had gotten to know Zan pretty well in the past week. He was different than Ava and he was definitely a lot different than Lonnie and Rath. Liz found it easy to talk to Zan and when he asked about Max Liz found herself telling him everything.
Zan was fascinated with Liz. He loved watching her reactions to the places that he and Ava took her. He loved to watch her looking at the paintings in the museums or the way she would smile as she watched a tattoo taking shape on someone. He trusted her completely and he had never done that before. He wanted to know everything about her and he was pissed when he discovered what his dupe had done to her. By the end of the week Zan was in love with her.
The start of the second week began as every other day. Liz got up to the smell of bacon frying and coffee brewing. She got up, threw on her bathrobe, and headed in the direction of the kitchen. She stood in the doorway of the kitchen for a few minutes watching Zan cook. He was shirtless in just a pair of sweat pants. She admired the muscles in his back and arms. She watched as they rippled beneath his skin as he flipped over the bacon and then the pancakes he was cooking.
“Good Morning.” Liz broke the silence.
Zan turned around with a huge grin on his face, “Good morning, Sunshine. It’s just you and me today. Ava’s off visiting an old friend, so I thought after breakfast instead of watching TV we could get an early start and go to Central Park.”
Liz nodded in agreement, “Yeah. That sounds great.”
She set the table as Zan finished cooking. The two ate in amicable silence while looking through the paper. Liz finished first.
“Zan, thanks for breakfast. It was great as usual.” She added with a wink.
Zan smirked, “Anything for you Sunshine.”
Liz laughed at his affectionate nickname for her, “Zan, why do you call me that.”
He thought for a moment and decided to just tell her the truth, “Because you are sunshine. I don’t really now how to explain it without sounding cheesy and stupid.”
Liz felt herself grow warm, “Zan, just say it. I promise you won’t sound cheesy and stupid. Even if you do, I promise I won’t laugh.”
“All right, well, after Lonnie and Rath….after they tried to kill me I didn’t know what to do with myself. And, then I knew I had to go on. I was put on this earth for a reason. So, I opened up the shop and renovated this apartment. I had no one. When Ava came back, I got a part of my life back. But, part of me still felt empty. And then you came. You are like this ray of sunshine. Your smile and laugh is like nothing I have ever heard. You fill up that empty part of me.” He finished and waited for Liz’s reaction. He expected her to recoil in disgust or fear. However, she surprised him by kneeling in front of him and placing her hands on either side of his face.
“Zan, this past week I’ve grown close to you and I care for you a lot. I’m so happy that you feel that way. I want to be friends with you. That’s all I can give you right now. I can’t make any promises. But, you give me a sense of hope.” She stood up and placed a kiss on his forehead, “I’m going to go shower now.”
Zan watched her walk away and smiled to himself. He was going to prove to Liz that she was who he had been waiting for. Today was just the beginning.

[Skittles1983]

Zan sat patiently, which was not a virtue he possessed, waiting for Liz to come back out of her room. He had showered, dressed, and ready for their day. He posted a sign that the shop would open at 4. While he was thinking about Liz he didn’t she had come out of her room and was standing in the doorway. A throat clearing brought Zan out of his reverie and he glanced up at her.
“Wow, you look amazing Sunshine.”
Liz blushed, “Thanks.” If Liz was honest with herself she picked this outfit out because she knew it would grab Zan’s attention. She picked her shortest dark denim skirt and paired it with a pair of black flip flops and a black halter top. She watched Zan’s eyes travel up the length of her legs and stop at her chest. She felt a tingle run through her skin and she shivered.
Zan could not believe the woman that stood in front of him. He knew she was gorgeous but today she looked hot. He offered her his arm and off they went. He took her on the subway and stood close to her her so that she wouldn’t fall.
Liz noticed his protectiveness and laughed, “Zan, I’ve been here for a week. I’ve gotten used to the subways. I won’t trip when we’re jol…” Liz didn’t even finish her sentence as she was thrown into Zan at the abrupt stopping of the train.
Zan just smirked down at her as he caught her, “You were saying Sunshine?”
Liz rolled her eyes but made no move to step back from Zan and Zan didn’t let her go. They arrived in central park ten minutes later. Zan led Liz to a stand and bought her a lemonade. They walked quietly hand in hand down a path. Liz couldn’t believe how beautiful the park was. It was a perfect summer day: not humid, not too hot, not a cloud in the sky, and she was with Zan. Liz realized that she had started to develop a little thing for him. It had nothing to do with Max. She saw Zan for Zan. She wasn’t sure she wanted to act on it though.
Zan noticed Liz’s far a way look and decided to snap her out of it. He grabbed her lemonade out of her hand.
“Hey!” Liz said.
Zan smiled at her, “Now that I have your complete attention how about we take a carriage ride?”
Liz’s eyes lit up, “Really?”
“Yup, as a matter of fact, I think your carriage is waiting for you.” Zan pointed to the end of the path and sure enough there was a horse drawn carriage waiting.
Liz’s eyes grew wide, “Zan, is that really for us.”
Zan winked as he took her hand again and walked up to the driver, “Hi, I believe you are waiting for us.”
The guy nodded and smiled as he watched Zan help Liz into the carriage. He got into the drivers seat and listened as a surprised gasp erupted from Liz’s lips.
“Zan, you shouldn’t have.” Liz said as she looked at him when he was seated next to her.
Zan put his arm around the back of Liz’s seat and smiled as she snuggled into his side.
“Of course I should have. I told you this is our day. The shop isn’t opening until 4, so that gives us another four hours. They’re just orchids…nothing special. Besides, I want to see that beautiful smile of yours more often.”
Liz couldn’t help but smile at his words. She nodded and thought that maybe she should let Zan in.

[Skittles1983]

Liz was surprised at how easily she fell for Zan. She couldn’t quite explain it but by the end of the second week Liz was in love. It wasn’t the type of love she had with Max. This was head over heels love with a lot of sexual attraction involved. The week had passed quickly and Liz found herself opening up to Zan. They spent hours and hours at night talking about anything and everything. As the third week began Zan and Liz knew each other better than they knew themselves.
Liz had confided in Ava her feelings and was glad that Ava was so accepting. She said that she knew Zan was waiting for someone and that she wasn’t surprised it was Liz.
Zan was the happiest he’d ever been. He loved Liz and he was glad that she had opened up to him. As the beginning of Liz’s third week dawned Zan found himself awakening to the smell of hazelnut. He stood up and yawned, stretching his arms above his head. He threw on a pair of jeans and walked out into the hallway and into the kitchen. He leaned on the doorway as he watched Liz flip pancakes, check on the bacon, and fix a cup of coffee for herself and then one just the way he liked it.
Liz knew Zan was standing behind her watching her. She could feel his presence. She turned around smiling, “Good morning. It’s my turn to surprise you with breakfast.” She winked at him.
Zan just smiled and took the cup of coffee from her, “Thanks.”
Zan sat down at the table and allowed Liz to serve him breakfast. The two ate in silence for a few minutes before Zan broke it.
“Where’s Ava?”
Liz replied, “Oh, she’s downstairs with some customers. I guess they asked her for early Monday morning and she agreed.”
Zan nodded, “Oh, all right. What do you want to do today?”
“Actually, I already have something in mind. But it’s not until later. I’m gonna go check out some local shopping areas…Ava and I want a girls shopping day.” Liz added hesitantly.
Zan frowned, “Okay, whatever you want Sunshine.”
Liz smiled, “Zan, tonight it’s just you and me. Ava will be going out, so don’t make any plans.”
And before Zan could reply Liz stood up, dropped a quick kiss on the top of Zan’s head, put her dishes in the dishwasher, and walked down the hall into her room, closing the door. Zan was still in a state of shock. He was trying to figure out what she had meant by that and he was shocked at what she had been implying. He thought about having sex with Liz but he didn’t want to say anything because he was afraid of scaring her off. Zan cleaned his own dishes up and went into his room. By the time he was done showering he found a note from Liz and Ava stating that they had gone out for the day.
Zan threw on a pair of green cargos and a crème color tight fitting sleeveless shirt. He went down and opened the shop early and had customers waiting outside.
Meanwhile, Liz and Ava were having fun shopping. Ava had taken Liz into a bunch of funky boutiques. Liz had decided that she wanted to have sex with Zan. Ava was thrilled and quickly agreed to help Liz pick out an outfit. Liz had a plan in her head and decided to share it with Ava when they were in the dressing room.
“So, here’s what I’m going to do. I know he closes the shop late, so I’ll head down there and offer to help him clean up. I’ll be wearing my new outfit, which I have yet to find, and then I’ll ask him to tattoo me. I want a star shooting across the moon on the inside of my left thigh, as high up as possible.”
Ava laughed and said, “Oh he is so going to like that.”
Liz laughed and continued, “Then when he’s done, I’m going to bring him upstairs and have dinner waiting on a picnic blanket with lots of candles everywhere and then just let it go from there.” Liz looked over at Ava nervously, “You don’t think it’s too cornball do you?”
Ava smiled, “I think it’s just the right amount of cornball.”
Liz playfully shoved her friend and the two girls laughed.
Liz found the perfect outfit a few hours later and the two girls returned home exhausted. Ava went down to help in the shop and Liz napped. By the time she got up it was almost eight o’clock. Ava had left her a good luck note and promised not to be back until the shop opened tomorrow afternoon. Liz took her time getting ready. She shaved her legs, took her time making sure every detail was perfect. She walked into her room and put on her favorite vanilla lotion. She put on her new skirt and top and went out into the living room. She set up the picnic table cloth on the floor and put out the dishes, next she placed over fifty candles throughout the living room. She made the salad and checked on the chicken Ava had placed in the oven for her. Everything was perfect.
Liz made her way down the stairs and cleared her throat as Zan was locking the door. He looked up startled by her appearance and his mouth dropped open at the sight before him.
Zan couldn’t believe what Liz was wearing. She had on a tight, short khaki skirt with a deep red vneck halter top that showed all of her cleavage. She had on stiletto heels and her hair was down in wavy curls that cascaded down her shoulders. He gulped as she did a little turn and he could see that there was barely a back to the top.
Liz smiled at Zan’s reaction, silently pleased with herself. “Zan, sweetheart, do you need help with anything.”
Zan shook his head unable to find any words.
“Okay,” Liz said innocently, “do you think you would mind one more tattoo?”
Zan gulped and managed a nod.
Liz laughed, “Great.” She took a seat in his chair and hiked her skirt up. Zan’s eyes bulged out of his head. She was wearing a red see through thong. His eyes snapped up to hers and she smiled at the desire she saw building in his eyes. He took a step closer to her.
“I want a star shooting across the moon, right here,” she said spreading her legs and pointing to the inside of her upper left thigh.
Zan, still unable to speak placed his hand on her thigh and Liz gasped at the feeling. He sent tingles throughout her body and when he pulled his hand away there was her tattoo. He leaned down and kissed her thigh, “Do you like it?” Zan had found his voice as soon as he had tattooed her.
Liz studied the tattoo and decided it was beautiful. She nodded and held her hand out to him. Zan allowed himself to be brought upstairs. She told him to wait outside for a minute and a few minutes later he was allowed into the apartment.
Zan’s eyes widened at the living room. He looked at Liz, “Is all this for me?”
Liz nodded as she chewed on her bottom lip, “Do you like it?”
It was Zan’s turn to nod as he pulled her close and kissed her.
Liz led him to the blanket and sat him down. They ate in a comfortable silence and Zan insisted he clean up. When he came back into the living room he found all the candles blown out and Liz waiting for him, her hand out in an offering. He took her hand and she led him into her room where her little laterns cast a glow about the room. She shut her door and led Zan over to the bed.
“Zan, I want you. I want to give myself to you completely. I know it’s only been two weeks, but there’s something about and I can’t explain it. I don’t know what it is, but I know I love you.” She looked up at him suddenly shy.
Zan smiled up at her as he stood up and towered above her. “Sunshine, I love you too.” And he leaned down and captured her lips in a fierce kiss.
Liz pulled away, “I’ve never….”
Zan put his finger up to her lips, “Shh….it’s all right. I promise I will make it perfect.”
Zan spent the rest of the night showing Liz what it meant to be in love. Liz had never felt more free, sexy, and beautiful than when Zan made love to her throughout the night.
They fell asleep as the sun rose and were peaceful for the first time in a long time. Liz dreamt of Zan the entire time she slept. She didn’t want to wake up but the annoying ringing of her cell phone pulled her out of her dream world. She untangled herself from Zan’s arms and looked at the clock which read 11 A.M. She grabbed her phone and didn’t bother checking the caller ID.
“Liz,” she heard Maria’s worried tone followed by an even less calm Michael, “Liz, where are you?”
“At Zan and Ava’s. Why what’s wrong?” She asked.
“It’s Rath and Lonnie. They were here looking for you, and now they’re on their way to New York.” Liz dropped the phone onto the floor and turned towards Zan who was already awake staring at her worriedly.

[Skittles1983]

I just wanted to say Thank You to everyone who is reading my story. I appreciate all the support and feedback. This story will only be a few more parts and I hope to have it up within the next two weeks. Thanks again:)



Ava and Liz sat on the couch in the living room watching Zan pace back and forth mumbling under his breath.

He stopped, “FUCK!” Both girls jumped which made Zan sigh out an apology. He didn’t mean to scare them but he was so pissed off right now. After Liz had hung up the phone and told Zan the problem, he had immediately called Ava and told her to come back. Maria had called back and told Liz that the group from Roswell was getting on a plane and flying into New York. The group included Max and Tess which bothered Zan because he didn’t want Liz upset.

Zan slumped down into a chair and ran his hands through his hair. He felt Liz’s hand caress the side of his face and he wrapped his arms around her waist and buried his face in her stomach. Ava got up quietly and left the two alone. Liz heard the front door close and then she felt Zan’s hot tears on her exposed stomach. She ran her hand through his hair and kept her other hand caressing his cheek and let him cry. He looked up at her with red eyes and she dropped down onto her knees to be eye level with him.

“Zan , it’s going to be fine. We are going to be all right.” Zan nodded and wordlessly pulled Liz into his lap. They stayed like that for a few minutes before Zan kissed Liz’s temple and broke the silence.

“You are right Sunshine. I am going to make Lonnie and Rath wish they never showed up again. I love you.”

Liz smiled, “And I love you. Now, everyone is going to be here in a few hours. Where are they going to stay and how are they going to get here?”

“I already took care of it. While you were in the shower I called in a favor from a friend who owns a limo service. He’s sending a Hummer Limo to pick them up and he’s bringing them to a hotel down two blocks where I made reservations for a suite. It has several bedrooms so they should be able to figure that out.”

“Zan, I can’t ask you to do all that.”

“It’s already done Sunshine. I would do anything for you.”

Liz kissed him. They pulled away panting. Liz smiled, “I know.”

Zan looked at Liz, “I’m sorry everything got so fucked up. I know you had today planned and last night was perfect.”

Liz blushed, “How about we forget about all of this for now? I’m not trying to be naïve and I know that this isn’t going to go away but just for a little while longer can we go pretend?”

“Of course Sunshine. Anything for you…I mean it.”

And Zan showed Liz just how serious he was.

Liz and Zan were slipping peacefully. Ava watched them from the doorway smiling at the way Zan’s arm was around Liz’s waist protectively. Liz’s hair swept across Zan’s chest. Ava hated to disrupt their peacefulness but the Roswell crew had arrived and they were in the living room, getting a little antsy. Ava couldn’t keep them back from making sure Liz was okay for themselves. Before Ava could even move in their direction Zan opened his eyes and nodded. Ava shut the door on her way out and made her way to the living room to deal with the others.

Zan shook Liz gently, “Sunshine, we have to get up. Your friends are out in the living room.”

Liz cracked one eye open, “Really?”

Zan laughed, “Yeah. Now come on, I know you are happy here but I know you also know you miss Isable, Maria, Alex, Michael, and Kyle.”

Liz smiled and planted a sweet kiss on Zan’s forehead. She got up out of bed and put on a pair of denim capris and a white tank top with the word Sunshine written across it in yellow. She threw up her hair in a messy ponytail. Zan threw on a pair of khaki cargos and a white tank top. He reached for Liz’s hand and she happily took it. They smiled at each other before breathing deeply and walking out into the living room. Liz had told her friends about Zan but she knew that them seeing him in person would be a lot different. Besides she was sure Max and Tess didn’t know and she knew that Tess would be all over Zan and Max would be in shock.

The lovers walked into the living room, into a group of waiting people. A collective gasp was heard from the entire group before Maria’s shrieks of missing Liz were heard and the lovers were separated as Liz was pulled into hugs from her many friends.

After introductions were done and the expression of shock wore off of Max’s and Tess’s face the group sat down. Everyone noted how comfortable Liz looked seated next to Zan with their hands linked. Everyone also noted the anger in Max’s eyes and the jealousy too. This didn’t go unnoticed by Liz or Zan. Liz was just hoping to make it through this first awkward meeting without a fight between Max and Zan. Zan was just hoping to make it through the next five minutes without a fight between himself and Max.

[Skittles1983]

Chapter 7

Liz didn’t know what to do. They hadn’t made it through the first three minutes of the group meeting. Max made a comment purely out of jealously and Zan laid him out on the ground. Michael had pulled Zan off of Max and the two were put in opposite corners. Now, the two of them were shouting at each other while everyone looked around helplessly. Liz was tired and was not in the mood to deal with them arguing. So, she stood up and yelled, “SHUT UP!”

The room grew quiet and still. Everyone stared at her but she didn’t even blink, “Look, we are here for a reason. Max you need to shut up and stop being jealous. You gave up that right the night you slept with Tess. Zan, I appreciate you defending me but right now we have figure some things out.”

Zan smiled sheepishly at her, “Sorry Sunshine. You’re right.”

Max just nodded his agreement and didn’t say anything. The meeting continued as Isabelle and Maria told Ava, Liz, and Zan what they heard and saw of Lonnie and Rath. Apparently, they had gone around asking about Liz, but no one knew who they were until Maria and Isabelle saw them change into Lonnie and Rath. Everyone was trying to figure out what Lonnie and Rath wanted when the front door to Ava and Zan’s apartment exploded and in walked Lonnie and Rath who smiled evilly at everyone.

Zan, Ava, Isabelle, Michael, Max, and Liz stood up with their arms outstretched towards Lonnie and Rath who put up a protective shield around themselves. Tess stayed where she was while Alex and Maria joined their friends. Even though they didn’t have powers they could and would fight.

Rath broke the silence, “Well, well if it isn’t our King Zan himself.”

Zan just acknowledged him with a grin, “What do you want?”

Lonnie nodded to Liz, “We want her. It seems that she can be of value back on Antar because she is a human who has developed powers. We will not think twice of killing everyone in this room to get her.”

Zan laughed as he narrowed his eyes, “You really think I’m going to let you take her away. You two are going to wish you never showed up again. How did you know where to find us?”

Rath pointed to Tess, who still hadn’t moved from her spot on the couch. Liz, Max, Zan, Ava, Isabelle, Alex, Maria, and Michael didn’t even blick. Rath had just confirmed what they all had been thinking. Nobody in the room moved. Both sides of the room were waiting for the other to make a move. Seconds ticked away into minutes. After five minutes Zan caught movement out of the corner of his eye.

He watched Liz walk by him, “No. Liz, stay where you are.”

She just smiled back at him and then looked towards Lonnie and Rath. She walked up to them and extended her arms in front of her. Lonnie and Rath each grabbed one of her wrists while keeping their free hands trained on the group in front of them. Before anyone could move a bright light flashed and just as quickly was gone. Zan uncovered his eyes and found Liz standing by the front door with ashes floating around her. He rushed over to her and checked her out. Liz laughed as Zan engulfed her in a hug and then found herself being hugged by the others.

“What the hell was that? AND, what were you thinking?” Maria shouted.

“Well, I don’t know. I just knew that I could do that to them. So, I wanted them to believe I was a willing captive and I knew that as soon as they touched me they’d be dead.”

Zan and Ava exchanged a glance but before they could say anything, Maria said, “You just knew? How is that possible?”

Zan spoke up, “Because she is my queen.”

The room fell silent. Liz looked at Zan with a raised eyebrow and he smirked at her, “I don’t just mean you’re my queen because I love you. But, you are literally my queen as I am your king. You see Max and I may be made from the same DNA but I am more alien than he is. I have my alien memories. On Antar when you marry it is not a ceremony as it is here on earth. It is a joining of the hearts, minds, bodies, and souls of the two lovers. A complete bonding or joining. I as King have the ability to restore or take life with the touch of my hand. Liz, you and I must have been so in tune with each other this afternoon that we completed the Antarian ritual. You knew you could do that because you knew I could do it.”

Liz just opened and closed her mouth trying to figure out what to say. She couldn’t think of anything so she jumped into Zan’s arms and kissed him. She pulled away after a few seconds and rested her forehead against his. A throat cleared behind them and they pulled away reluctantly.

Maria broke the silence, “So you’re married?”

That broke the intense moment and caused everyone to laugh except Max and Tess.

When the laughter died down Max asked, “What do we do with Tess?”

Liz smiled, “Well she did betray us for a second time.” Liz walked over to Tess and touched her head briefly.

Tess blinked and smiled at the group.

Liz said, “That should take care of it.”
Maria said, “Um Liz, what did you do?”

“Oh, I just took away all of her memories and replaced them. She thinks she’s our maid.”

The group laughed.

Later on that night:

“Liz?” Zan asked.

“Mmm.” Liz mumbled sleepily.

“I love you. And, I know we are married in the Antarian way, but I understand if it’s too much for you.”

Now wide awake Liz sat up and turned on the bedside lamp, “Zan, I love you. We are married in every way that it counts. I’ve loved you since the first time I laid eyes on you. I may not have known it then but I did. What are we going to do at the end of the summer when I have to go back to New Mexico.”

Zan loved the woman sitting beside him with all of his heart. “Liz, I would do anything to be with you. Ava and I discussed it already and she and I are going to open up a shop in Roswell. We have some potential buyers of the building and we think that a warmer climate is a good thing.” he winked at her.

Liz was shocked, “Are you serious?”

Zan nodded and Liz leaned over and kissed him slowly. After pulling apart she said, “Zan, I would love that. Are you sure though? I don’t want you to do it if you’re not sure.”

“Sunshine, don’t you know that I would do anything for you?”

Liz nodded and smiled. Suddenly, she couldn’t wait to go back to Roswell and start her life with Zan and her friends. She knew it was going to be interesting and fun.



Epilogue

Four years later….

Liz walked down the aisle and smiled at Michael who was waiting impatiently. Next her gaze drifted to Zan who winked at her and she felt her stomach flip flop. After four years he still gave her butterflies. Liz was followed by Isabelle and then finally the bride: Maria.

The ceremony was beautiful and all the women cried. At the party Zan and Liz were dancing the night away. They were unaware of everyone staring at them in envy wishing that they could find a love like Liz and Zan or wishing they were young again with their true love.

Zan smiled down at Liz as he watched her play with her engagement ring. She caught him watching her and leaned up to place a kiss along his jaw line. Zan had proposed to her on the day of her college graduation. He and Ava had sold their building and moved out to Roswell. They had expanded their shop and their business was great. Liz had worked there part time throughout college. She moved in across the street from the shop with Maria and Isabelle. Max, Michael, Alex, and Kyle moved into an apartment down the hall from where the girls lived. Max had slowly mended his friendships and even formed a tentative alliance with Zan. Alex and Isabelle had gotten married a month after graduation. Kyle and Ava had surprised everyone by eloping to Las Vegas where the group joined them after the surprising phone call to announce that they were married. Max had dated around but hadn’t found anyone worth settling down with. Tess worked for each couple as a house cleaner.

Zan and Liz’s relationship was stronger than ever. Zan and Ava lived in an apartment above the tattoo shop. However, once Liz had graduated Zan and Liz moved into a house together. Ava made the apartment hers and Kyle had moved in with her once they were married.

Michael & Maria and Alex & Isabelle lived a few streets over from Liz and Zan. Liz had several offers from various companies to work as a molecular biologist but Liz decided that she wanted to become a college professor. So, she was going back to school to continue her studying. Zan was proud of her.

Liz and Zan were brought out of their reveries by Maria shouting at them, “Hey, you two, come over here. You’re supposed to be watching ME cut the cake.” Everyone laughed and Liz knew life was good. Her and Zan had decided to have a small wedding in October and everything was already planned. Life was definitely good.

[Skittles1983]

Conclusion


Liz groaned as she reached over to cuddle with Zan. However, she was met with nothing. Her eyes flew open to the empty spot beside her and she panicked for a moment before she saw a note and pink Lily on his pillow. She and Zan had woken up next to each other ever since they moved in together six months ago and now they were getting married. She sat up and leaned over to pick up the flower and note. She inhaled deeply and smiled. She opened the note and read it aloud, "Sunshine, today you are going to make me the luckiest man alive. Love, Zan"

Liz smiled but her peaceful moment was interrupted as her bedroom was thrown open and Maria followed by Isabelle and Ava walked in.

"Liz!" Maria shrieked, "Get in the shower...right now!"

Isabelle and Ava just laughed as Liz shook her head and rolled her eyes. But, she got up and went into the bathroom to take her shower. When she was done she threw her hair up in a ponytail and threw on a pair of yoga pants with a long sleeved white tshirt. She joined the others in her living room and the group took off towards the spa that they were spending the day at.

After being pampered all day long, Liz got into her dress. Maria, Isabelle, and Ava were all wearing red tea length dresses with a cream colored strip of silk around their waists. Liz's dress was fitted on top then flared out into a princess skirt.

There was a slight breeze on this beautiful October day. The sun was starting to set as Liz made her way down the aisle. Zan looked extremely handsome in his tux. When Liz finally reached him they both had tears in their eyes. They said their vows, opting to just follow the traditional vows of the church.

They entered the patio that was lit with thousands of dragonfly lights and was filled with all of their friends and family. As the party progressed Liz and Zan shared their first dance as husband and wife.

Zan leaned down and whispered into her ear, "Sunshine, you are breathtaking. I can't wait to take you home and take you out of this dress."

Liz shivered, "Mmm." Was all she could manage. She caused both of them to laugh.

"All right, All right. It's time for the speeches. Break it up you two." Maria's voice broke through their haze.

The crowd grew quiet as they waited for Maria to continue, "I have been best friends with Liz since we were 2. I couldn't ask for a better friend. Today we are here to celebrate the love she shares with a man who is just as dear to me as she is. The love that they share comes around one in a life time and is rare. It's almost as if they were made for eachother. To Liz and Zan."

The crowd followed, "To Liz and Zan."

Maria handed the microphone over to Max, the best Man. "I have been lucky to witness first hand the love that Liz and Zan share. They are true soul mates and I want you all to join me in wishing them the best of luck."

The crowd cheered and the party resumed. As the night wound down and the final song came on Liz and Zan, Michael and Maria, Kyle and Ava, Alex and Isabelle, and Max and his date Jenny took to the floor. Liz looked around at all of her friends and knew that her life was full. She couldn't ask for me.