Change My Life (Ma/Ky) Adult Ch. 14 5/25 [WIP]

[gnrkrystle]

Change My Life

Disclaimer: I do not own Roswell, it’s characters, or any part of it. Period.
Rating: Adult, eventually
Coupling: Maria/Kyle
Summary: Maria is in a bad way. What happens when Sheriff Valenti tries to help her?
A/N: Its been a while since I started a new fic, and this just came to me. I hope you all like it. Tell me what you think.



Chapter 1

Groggily, Maria DeLuca pulled into West Roswell High’s, senior parking lot some idle Wednesday, only 2 weeks into her last year of high school. She was running late, as she had nearly everyday of her high school career. Mornings in her house never got off on the right foot, or on time as it were.

She cut off her engine, and hurriedly grabbed her tattered back pack and made her way to the front doors of the school. If she was quick about it, she might just make it to first period, Biology on time, and then would not have to suffer the subsequent taunting of her peers. Maria was far from popular, and the fact that her mom’s income did not provide her with much in the way of cool clothes and supplies didn’t help.

She ran up the stairs and into the school, down the hall, and directly into her classroom, just as the bell sounded. She breathed a sigh of relief, and slowed down to take the seat next to her lab partner, Alex Whitman, a kid with just a little higher social standing than herself, but he was a nice guy and was never mean to her. Though, she was sure that he wouldn’t want his friends to know he was nice to her.

“Ahh, Ms. DeLuca, on time for once,” Mr. Seligman, the sarcastic, asshole of a science teacher, said as she slid quietly into her seat praying that no one would notice her out of breath swagger to the lab tables.

The room was quietly punctuated by laughter, whispering, and snickering as they turned to gawk at Maria. It would figure that the one class she had a hard time making it to on time would be the one class with most of the popular kids in it. There was Max Evans, the cool, but some what shy guy who took the Mighty Comets to state. Then there was his girlfriend, the ever popular and smart, Liz Parker. She was on her way to Harvard and everyone in the small town they lived in loved her. They were never mean to Maria either, but they would have had to know she existed for that.

The worst were the group congregated in the back of the room. There was Michael Guerin, Tess Harding, and Isabel Evans. They basically ruled the school, along with their pal, Kyle Valenti, who seemed to be conspicuously absent that day. They were the kids that made Maria’s life hell, day in and day out, never letting her have a day off with their incessant taunting of her. Not that she needed any help in that department.

She couldn’t help it that her mom couldn’t hold down a job, and that the only money she made came from the job at the UFO Center that she worked everyday. She couldn’t help that her dad ran out on them when she was seven and her mother had the emotional maturity of a teenager. What could she do about it?

She sat through the rest of the class in silence, doing her work, diligently, as she always did. It was easier that way. She didn’t talk to other people, because they didn’t understand her. She had no one. And no one seemed to care about her, so she just decided she was going to do well in school, get a scholarship and get the hell out of Roswell, NM.

At lunch she sat outside at her usual table. Alone. No one sat with her unless they wanted to taunt her, and she preferred to sit in silence anyway. It wasn’t as if she could afford much of a lunch in the first place. A peanut butter sandwich was all she ate. Everyday.

She looked up at the masses around her, and as much as she hated it, envy set in. She wanted to have friends. She used to. She remembered a time in Jr. high when she had friends. She wasn’t popular, but she had a core group of people she used to hang out with. The irony was what Tess, Isabel, and Kyle were all members of that core group. Funny how high school could change everything. Before long, her lack of money and influence in town caused her friends to ostracize her, one by one.

Now she was alone, and it was better than being the butt of everyone’s jokes. Not to say she was the only one. Actually, Maria got off easier than some unfortunate souls at Wes Roswell that didn’t fit in, didn’t have friends, and didn’t conform. But at 17 years old that mattered little. She didn’t care that others got it worse than her. All she knew was that high school sucked and she was more than ready to get out of there.

More than that she was ready to get out of her house. She couldn’t deal with her mother, the endless streams of men that came in and out of her house on a nightly basis, or drinking. Maria had been exposed to more alcohol in her life than any 17 year old should have to.

She noticed Kyle Valenti sitting at an over-crowded table as she looked up from her sandwich. He must have decided to show up for school. His dad probably let him sleep in. Must be nice, she thought, then she mentally kicked herself. Why did she care about them, or what they got?

Losing her appetite, she put down the remainder of her sandwich and threw her trash away.

********

After school, Maria went directly to work. She had to get in 5 hours that day, to make up for an impromptu doctors appointment she had two days before. A gift of her mother’s drinking. Either way, she wasn’t going to get home until 10:00 and night and then she had a paper to write. All so she could wake up the next day and start all over again.

“Hi, Brody,” Maria said, her voice sounding strange to her. She liked Brody, and he had always been more than nice to her.

“Hello, Maria,” he said, with his smooth, British accent. “You’re in a little early,” he commented looking at his watch.

“Yeah, I need to make up some hours,” Maria said, quietly, hoping he would give them to her. He just smiled at her and nodded. He’d been worried when she said she wasn’t coming in on Monday. Maria never missed work. He had to say, anything he’d heard about teenagers being lazy with a poor work-ethic, had been disproved by his one employee.

“Ok, well the book collection needs restocking. I just got a few new ones in.” Brody said with a smile before he turned to head back to his office.

Maria smiled back and went to work. She thought it was funny how into this UFO stuff Brody was. Apparently he thought he had been abducted, and was spending his millions on trying to make contact again. She thought it was all pretty far-fetched, but he seemed as normal as any other guy, so she just obliged and pretended to believe him. Besides, she couldn’t be too open about her lack of faith in aliens. The meager living that her mom did make, when she was sober enough, came from a touristy shop that sold all “alien” artifacts.

Her five hours went by far too quickly and soon, she was closing up the museum. “Need a ride home?” Brody asked as he grabbed his keys.

“Oh no, it’s out of your way,” Maria waved him off.

“I’m going that way anyway,” Brody lied. Truth be told he didn’t want Maria walking home alone at 9:30 at night.

“Well, if you are sure,” Maria said, warily. She didn’t really want to walk either. It was late and her feet were killing her. She HAD to save some money for better tennis shoes.

Brody smiled and lead her out to his car. They made idle chit-chat on the way to her house. When he stopped in front of her run down house, that was no bigger than a small apartment, he said, “Ok, I’ll see you tomorrow.” And smiled at her. She was warmed by his smile, it was the only real friendly contact she got from anyone.

Her emotions went cold though, as she got out of the car and headed up to her door. She noticed a light on in the kitchen and knew her mother was home. She never really knew when her mom would be in. Sometimes she came home early and sometimes she stumbled in at early morning light, breaking knick-knacks on her way to crashing in her bedroom, usually with some anonymous man she had picked up in whatever bar she had closed that night.

Maria took a deep breath and entered her house. “Marriaaa, isss that yooou?” her mother’s drunken voice called immediately. Maria rolled her eyes and sighed.

“Yeah, mom. I’m home.” Maria called, making her way into the kitchen, where she assumed her mother was.

There she found her mother a fifth deep in a bottle of Vodka. “Where were yooou?” her mother asked, her eyes drooping with drunkenness.

“Work. I had to go in early. I left you a TV dinner,” Maria answered, grabbing a glass and pouring tap water into it.

“I thought you left. I thought you weren’t coming back,” her mother’s drunken, tear-filled voice cried out dramatically. “Like your father. I thought you left me.”

Maria cringed at the mention of her father. Truth be told, she was sure that even being with a deadbeat like him would be favorable to living with a drunk like her mother. “I’m here, Mom. I just am going to go to my room. I’ve got school in the morning and a paper to write.”

“Don’t blow me off young lady.” Amy it out angrily. “I’m your mother.” Her voice sounded more sober, but Maria was no deceived. Her mom was three sheets to the wind and Maria knew that any notions she had of finishing her homework were going to have to be forgotten, because when her mother got like this, the only thing she could do is oblige or pay the consequences, and that was not something she could afford right now.

“He left,” Amy said out of the blue, chugging back the last of the vodka on the bottle that seemed to be permanently attached to her hand. As half the clear liquid dripped down her chin, She clumsily got up from her seat and stumbled over to the freezer, yanking out a bottle of whisky. She slammed if down on the table, not even bothering with a glass. She slipped into her seat, nearly falling down and unscrewed the cap of her new drink.

“Who?” Maria asked, completely ignorant of what the hell her mother was talking about.

“Jason,” her mother answered, as if it should be obvious.

Maria wracked her brain to figure out who Jason was. Jason…Jason…wait, wasn’t that the guy her mother brought home Sunday night. She remembered Sunday night well, though the players in the Lifetime Movie that had been her life that night were a little hazy. How had he had time to leave her? The just met Sunday.

“He left and he said he didn’t want to see me anymore,” Amy pouted, throwin back shot after shot of brown liquor. “He just…” she started, but as she started the sentence, her head was already going, going down. She had passed out, mid-sentence and Maria scolded herself for silently being joyful for that. At least she could get to her paper now. And she didn’t have to hear anymore about her mother’s failed shack up attempts.

Maria stood up and moved in behind her mother, lifting her awkwardly into her arms. Maria’s malnourished body was not very strong, but she had to get her mother in bed, so, slowly, she half carried and half dragged her mom to her room and threw her on the bed, face down in case she had to throw up.

Breathing heavily she walked back into the kitchen, cleaned up her mother’s mess and then picked up her bag, ready to start her paper. It was midnight. Sleep just wasn’t going to happen for her tonight.

TBC…

[gnrkrystle]

Chapter 2

The next week passed, nearly eventless. Maria’s mom had found a new boyfriend for the moment. His name was Mike, or Mark, Maria couldn’t really remember. But she heard them going at it rather loudly, sometime mid-week, and he had come over a few days later for dinner, after which he and her mother finished nearly a gallon of whiskey and passed out on the couch.

Before Maria knew it, it was Monday again, and she was running late. This time, she didn’t make it to class on time, and Mr. Seligman made it a point to notice, saying, “Whatever excuse you have, I don’t want to hear it. Everyone else can seem to get here on time. Why not you?”

Maria just nodded and slipped silently into her seat, the rest of the class staring at her. Michael, Isabel, Tess, and Kyle chuckling the loudest and talking amongst themselves. Maria sighed and turned to her work.

“Don’t worry about it,” Alex whispered to her, “You didn’t miss anything but roll.”

“Thanks,” she said quietly, as s he tucked a strand of long blonde hair behind her ear. She could remember a time when her own voice didn’t scare her, but now, she found herself playing the role of the quiet, loner. She wasn’t sure if that was what she now was.

Seventh period rolled around, and she was just happy that the school day was almost over and she could get to work. She liked work. It was the only time she really got to be herself, and not be judges, beaten down, or yelled at.

But her relief didn’t last long as Isabel and Tess made it a point to sit next to her in her seventh period English class. She liked the class, but she hated that she had it with them. Girls could be so cruel, and Isabel and Tess were no exceptions.

“Where’d you get those cool shoes?” Isabel asked, as she neatly slid into her desk, her hair, clothes, and make-up perfect. She was not as shy as her brother Max. She knew she was hot, and acted like it.

Maria decided to ignore them. It was a lame insult anyway. Her shoes were old and generic. Who cared?

Tess, seeing they were getting nowhere chimed in with her two-cents. “Oh, Maria, I saw your mom the other night, at the Griffin Pub,” she, tried to hold back her laughter as she asked, “Did she get home ok? She looked like she’d had a few.”

Tess bit her lip harder as the giggles inside threatened to erupt. Maria hated her. She knew that Tess, along with everyone in town knew her mother was a drunk, but to pretend to be concerned was the ultimate insult.

However, Maria was going to be the bigger person. “Leave her alone,” Isabel said, a smile playing across her flawless features. “She can’t help it her mother’s a lush.”

“Fuck you,” Maria cursed under her breath, unable to hold it back, but before Isabel or Tess could come back with a perfect retort, Ms. Jacobs’ turned to them.

“Something you’d like to share?” she asked Maria only.

“No, Ms. Jacobs,” Maria said, bowing her head, her quiet, foreign voice back in her throat, and the class went off smoothly after that. If she just stayed quiet, did her work and stayed out of her mother’s way, she would be fine. 160 more days, and she was out of this school, out of her house, and out of that god awful town.

********

“Maria, do you need another ride home?” Brody called from his office as Maria got her stuff together.

“Ummm, that would be great. But, I mean, I don’t want you to go out of your way,” she said, cautiously. Brody frowned momentarily, wondering why Maria was always so quick to apologize even when she hadn’t done anything wrong.

“It’s not problem at all, Maria. The town is only so big, it is never too far out of my way,” he said, smiling at her warmly.

Maria found herself smiling back, the first smile she’d smiled in a few days. She didn’t know what she would do without those small miracles.

The miracles, kept coming her way as Brody pulled up to her small house and she noticed her mother wasn’t home. She didn’t have much homework, so Maria was fairly confident that she could get in, do it, and get to sleep before her mother stumbled in.

“Good night, Brody,” she said quietly and he smiled and nodded in response.

“Night, Maria.’ He said still looking at the poor girl with sympathy. He wished he could do something for her, but he just didn’t know what.

Maria walked up to her house, locked the door behind her and started in on her homework that only really took her about an hour. She was exhausted, so she decided that even thought it was just after 10, she would go to bed.

***********

Some time later, Maria didn’t know when, she was pulled roughly from her bed. “Get up!” her mother’s nearly hoarse, drunken voice yelled at her.

“mom, what’s wrong?” Maria asked, concern in her voice, but her voice was also dripped in pain as her mother wrenched her arm tighter.

Her mother dragged her by the arm into the living room where she threw her down on the floor. “You are wrong, Maria,” she slurred, her voice filled with rage.

Maria couldn’t help the tears that stung her eyes as her mother looked at her with the same disdain she had on more than one occasion. She knew deep down her mother didn’t love her. She just didn’t want to admit it to herself. But at times like this, there was no hiding it.

“Why?” Maria nearly choked out, “Why are you doing this?”

“This is the last time, Maria,” her mother ranted, now pacing the room but keeping at firm grip on Maria’s hair, causing her to wince in pain. “This is the last time I will lose a good man because of you!” he screamed.

“What did I do?’ Maria asked, tears now freely falling down her cheeks.

“They don’t want me with you around!” her mother yelled, probably not even hearing Maria’s question at this point.

It was then that her mother, with strength that Maria could not explain, yanked her up by her arms and through her against the wall. “It isn’t my fault!” her mother went on. “It isn’t my fault your father knocked me up!” she was beyond the point of reason and Maria didn’t know what to do. She could already see a bruise forming on her arm, and her head was on fire.

“Mom, stop, please,” she begged, her voice nearly lost in the chokes of sobs that escaped her lips. But Maria’s mom didn’t seem to hear her as she laid two good punches into Maria’s stomach.

“It’s all YOUR fault!” her mother’s deranged voice rang out.

“Stop please!” Maria groaned, falling to the floor unable to hold herself up anymore. Her mother was laying into her and she couldn’t do anything to stop it. The pain was so much. Soon, Maria passed out, dazed and confused as her mother continued to scream.

*******

Maria didn’t come back to consciousness until much later, as it was light outside. Her entire body felt like one big bruise and her vision was slightly blurry, but as her senses slowly came back to her, so noticed that her mother was not there anymore.

She didn’t know where she was, but she knew that she needed to get to a hospital. Her whole right side felt like it had been crushed, and she was having a hard time breathing.

Slowly, she crawled on her left side the three feet to the phone. It took all her strength to pick it up and dial the number, but soon she heard the operator. “911, what is your emergency?” the cheery voice asked.

“I…I need help,” Maria choked out. “My mom, I…” she started, but soon she was out again.

TBC…

[gnrkrystle]

Chapter 3


Red and Blue lights flashed outside Maria’s house, and she was vaguely coherent as two men in white and blue asked her if she was ok. She couldn’t answer them, but they lifted her gently onto a stretcher anyway and gingerly carried her out to the ambulance that had come along with the police and firemen.

She heard someone ask if her mother was ok, and she wanted to tell them, no, her mother was definitely NOT ok. But the darkness came back, and she was no longer able to make out anything. God it hurt.

The next thing she remembered, Maria opened her eyes and found herself in a shockingly white hospital room. She squinted her eyes as she looked at her surroundings.

“Hello there,” she heard a man’s voice close to her. It kind of scared her. Who the hell was there? She lifted her head slightly, and looked toward the voice. It was Kyle’s dad.

“Sh…Sh…Sheriff Valenti?” she asked, curious as to why he would be in her room. And how long had she been there? Where was her mother? Why did her mouth taste like rust? She was so confused.

“Yes, Maria.” The Sheriff said moving closer to her and taking her hand in his.

“How long have I been in here?” Maria asked, after clearing her throat.

“3 days,” he answered her grimly. “Do you remember what happened?”

Maria shook her pounding head to clear her thoughts. “It was my mom. She woke me up, and just started ripping into me.” She said, wondering if they had found her mother.

“You’re safe, Maria.” The sheriff said in a soft voice that Maria found unfamiliar. “You’re mom won’t hurt you again.”

“Where is she?” Maria asked.

“I’ve got her in custody.”

“Sheriff?” Maria said, in her normal small voice.

“Call me Jim, please.” He smiled at her.

“How am I going to pay for this,” she indicated, motioning around the room.

“Don’t worry about that,” Jim said. “A friend has taken care of everything.”

“A friend?” Maria couldn’t help the awed voice that came from her. She didn’t have any friends. And definitely no one who cared enough to pay for her 3 day hospital stay in the finest hospital in Roswell, NM.

“Brody,” Jim clarified. “He just left, actually. He’s been very worried about you.” Jim said, “I think he blames himself. You know, thinking he should have caught on sooner that you needed help.”

Maria let the information sink in. Someone cared about her? Someone she actually cared about in return. It was weird. She didn’t really know what to say. “Anyway, we have some things to talk about. But first I think I should call in the doctors to tell them you are awake, and let them fill you in on you’re status.” Jim said, his perfect Sheriff voice, flawless.

“Umm, ok,” Maria said, her head still swimming.

Soon, the doctor entered the room, her smile bright. “Hi there, Maria.” She said, “I’m Dr. Adams. It’s nice to finally officially meet you,” she said extending her hand, which Maria took, and shook weakly.

“Nice to meet you,” she said politely.

“Ok, so let me catch you up,” the doctor said. “You got pretty banged up. You have a mild concussion, a fractured rib, and a sprained wrist. The rest of your pain is coming from the bruising on your back and thighs.”

As Maria listened, she felt like she was in a dream. She couldn’t believe her mother’s little frame had caused that much damage. “Wow,” she said, the blood rushing to her head.

“Don’t worry. You just have one more night in the hospital and then you can leave. You’ll have to take it easy though. The rib will have to heal on its own.” The doctor said, letting go of Maria’s hand. She felt for the girl. She had not had an easy life, and from most of the story that Jim had given her, the girl needed as many people to support her.

After the doctor left, Maria turned to Jim. “So, did you guys find my dad or…” she didn’t know exactly how they were going to let her go home. She was only 17, and her mother was obviously in jail.

“That’s one of the things we have to talk about, Maria.” Jim said in a serious tone. “Brody and I talked, and he was adamant about you moving.” Jim smiled, knowing he couldn’t agree with Brody more. “So, I have a proposition for you.”

“Ummm, ok,” Maria said, confused. She prayed to god they weren’t going to put her in a foster home.

“How would you like to move in with me?” Jim asked, looking Maria in they eyes, as if to show her that he was completely and totally serious.

Maria thought she was hearing things. The richest man in town, Kyle Valenti’s dad, wanted her to move in with them. Like live there. Like it would be her home. Kyle would be there. Kyle, who hated her. “Seriously?” Maria asked.

“Maria, I remember how you used to be so full of life. Remember when your mother and I dated for a little while? You were so full of piss and vinegar. I care about you, Maria. I want to do right by you.” He said, barely able to hold back his emotions. He felt partly responsible for what had happened, and he wanted nothing more than to take Maria in his arms and protect her, forever.

“What does Kyle think about this,” Maria asked, almost scoffing at the thought of Jim talking to Kyle about this.

“It’s fine. Don’t you worry about anything.” Jim said, lying. Telling Kyle had actually not gone that well, but in the end, Jim put his foot down, and made Kyle promise to be nice to Maria.

“Ok,” Maria said, realizing she didn’t really have any other options. Besides, Jim really seemed to care about her. She had forgotten what that felt like, and if worse came to worse, she could try to find her own place when she turned 18 in a 4 months.

************

The next morning, Jim came to pick Maria up, in his Jeep. “Ready?” he asked, smile on his face. Not in a long time had so many people smiled at her like that.

“Yep,” she said, smiling and gingerly getting out of bed. Jim made her take the wheelchair outside, because he was worried about her straining herself too much. He had already decided that school was out of the question for the rest of the week.

As they drove to the house that would be her new home, she looked out the window marveling at the big houses. She had been to the Valenti’s house 100 times when she was in Junior High, but that seemed like a lifetime ago. She wondered what it would be like to live there. Even then, she was and outsider looking in.

When they pulled up to the house, Jim got her one duffle bag of stuff that she was allowed to keep, and helped her inside. Kyle was conspicuously not around, but Maria didn’t care. All she wanted to do was get into whichever room was going to be hers and lie down again. “Here, take the steps carefully,” Jim advised as he led the way up, and to her room.

“It’s right next to Kyle’s. You guys share a bathroom.” He said. Kyle had been ever so pleased about that one as well. Maria gulped. So they wouldn’t be able to totally avoid each other. Oh well, she told herself last night that she was going to be the bigger person, and let the past be the past. That didn’t mean she was going to be best buds with Kyle, but she wasn’t going to be rude to him either.

“Ok,” Maria said, sitting on the bed, softly.

“I guess I should let you get some sleep. You look tired,” Jim said winking at her. “If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask. This is your house now too.” Jim said.

“Thank you,” Maria replied and as he left the room, she looked around. Her room was huge. It was like the size of her house with her mother. She smiled, thinking everything would be ok. Awkward probably, but ok. She just needed some sleep. She’d think about the rest later. God, things were weird.

TBC…

[gnrkrystle]

Chapter 4

Later that night, Maria opened her eyes and realized it was now night time. She sat up gently, her side still throbbing from her broken rib. She cleared her throat, the rust taste, she noticed, was gradually leaving. As she stood up and walked toward the bathroom door she heard muffled voices. She could tell that Jim and Kyle were fighting. She winced at the thought, almost positive that she was the reason, and she hated that she was screwing up the family. Frankly, she didn’t care about Kyle, but Jim had been so nice to her, and it seemed she was just causing him trouble with his son.

“Kyle, act like an adult,” she heard Jim snap in a hushed voice.

“An adult?” Kyle asked, incredulously, “You just made this decision without me. I didn’t even get a say! Some adult.”

Maria shook her head lightly and entered the bathroom, shutting out the sound of the fight. She could tell that Jim was tired, and it probably wouldn’t last much longer anyway. After she peed, she looked at her face in the mirror. It was the first time she got a real look at herself since she’d been in the hospital. To tell the truth, Maria never spent much time at all looking at herself. She didn’t have time for paying attention to her physical appearance.

Now, she had a fading bruise on her upper right cheek and a dwindling cut on her lip, but other than that, her face seemed to fair ok in the fight with her mother. Fight, was that the right word for it? It was more like a one-sided ass kicking.

She brushed her hair out of her face and took a really long look at herself. She wasn’t ugly. Sure, she needed a haircut because her split ends were getting ridiculous, something she never really paid attention to. Her eyes were puffy, and sort of empty, but they were a pretty color, and she had always had nice complexion. She’d never had to worry about zits or cover-up, or foundations. She was pale, but it fit her. She was, however, much too thin. She could see it now. Her features were sunken in and sagging. She would have to do something about that.

Maria was yanked out of her trance as the bathroom door flew open from Kyle’s side. “Oh, ummm.” Maria got out but Kyle didn’t seem interested.

“Are you done?” he huffed, not really mean, but more like, ‘get out of my way, please.’

“Yeah,” Maria said quietly, bowing her head and exiting the bathroom. When she closed the door, she heard the lock click on her side, and the shower start. God, this was going to suck. Why couldn’t things be like there were when she was younger? When Kyle liked her? She hadn’t changed that much. Sure, she was more outgoing, but it was people like Kyle that had killed her spirit, along with her mother of course. But she and Kyle had so much fun a long time ago. They were by far the closest of the group, especially since Jim had dated her mother for a little while. They used to talk about how cool it would be to be related, and now look at them; barely about to speak full sentences to each other. And why? Because of High School? What the hell was that?

Oh well, she was hungry, and didn’t want to think about it anymore. It seemed like she hadn’t eaten in weeks. She slowly mad her way down the stairs, careful not to hurt herself, and as she got to the bottom, she realized she forgot where the kitchen was. It was stupid. How could she forget where the kitchen was. “Lost?” Jim’s voice sounded behind her, ad chuckle playing in the back of hi throat.

“A little,” she smiled, embarrassed.

“Where you headed?” Jim asked.

“Kitchen.” Maria answered, as her stomach growled.

“Don’t tell me you can’t remember where the kitchen is,” he laughed. “As I recall, it used to be your favorite room in the house,” he smiled

Maria was about to come back with a smart remark, but remembered Jim was just playing with her. She would have trouble getting used to that again. But there was something nice about it. She wanted people to joke with her. She wanted them to treat her like she was one of them, not an alien from another planet. “It’s just through there on the left.” Jim said pointing into the direction of the kitchen.

“Thank you,” Maria said, a smile in her voice, that she hadn’t heard in years.

*********

Maria didn’t go to school for the rest of the week. It was only a few more days anyway and Jim thought it would be best for her to start from scratch on a Monday.

When Saturday rolled around, Maria was feeling much better. Her bruises were mostly gone, and her side was nearly healed. As she sat down to breakfast, next to a silent Kyle and a chipper Jim, she couldn’t help but smile at her situation. She was happy. Sure, Kyle hadn’t spoken to her, but a grunt or two here and there, but Jim was great, and he was taking her shopping today. At first she protested, but he insisted, and she was grateful for all he was doing for her. “I know I’m not the best person to shop with,” he said at the table, “I wish I knew a woman who could go with us,” he smiled.

Maria just smiled at Jim. He would be better than her mom, barely able to stand up as she tried to light cigarettes in the middle of the mall.

“I’m going to Max’s house today,” Kyle announced as he took his plate to the sink.

“Ok, are you coming back tonight?” Jim asked, his tone cool, and Maria could tell he still wasn’t happy with his son.

“I doubt it.” Kyle said, grabbing his jacket.

Then a light went off in Jim’s head. “I’ve got it!” he said, “Kyle wait!” he called before he could leave. Kyle sighed and turned around back into the kitchen. “Can you give me Isabel’s cell phone number?”

“Why?” Kyle asked, impatiently.

“Because, I’m going to ask her to take Maria shopping.” Jim said, like it was the greatest idea he’d ever come up with.

Kyle and Maria looked at each other of the first time since she moved in and their eyes grew wide. “Ummm,” Maria said, not knowing how to put the fact that Isabel hated her guts, and the chances of her taking her Saturday to help Maria were slim to none.

Kyle sighed thought, knowing that his father wouldn’t take a no for an answer, “540-555-3523,” he said putting his phone back into his pocket. Jim smiled and got up, taking the phone in the living room where Maria couldn’t hear him call. She was pretty sure she didn’t want to hear though, as her feelings were only going to get hurt. As much as she hated Isabel and Tess at that point in her life, they were her friends once. Before Michael Guerin came along, and before her mother fell face first into the bottle.

Twenty minutes later, Jim came in, and said, “Ok, Isabel will be by to pick you up in a few minutes.” Maria’s jaw almost hit the floor. Isabel said yes? What alternate universe had she just entered?

“You mean she said yes?” Maria couldn’t help but ask.

Jim sighed and sat down next to Maria, taking her hand in his, “Look Maria, I know it’s been hard for you. And I know that Kyle, Isabel, and Tess, have been nothing short of mean to you for a while now. I can’t begin to imagine why, but I’m not blind. I’ve seen it.” Jim said, cocking his head to look at her. “But I’ve talked Isabel, and I know that somewhere, deep down, she missed the friendship you guys used to have too.”

Maria wasn’t so sure, but she knew that going with Isabel was going to make Jim happy, and it was the least she could do. “Ok,” she finally said, smiling at Jim.

Soon, Isabel pulled up to the Valenti house, and Maria heard her car door slam. “Great,” she mumbled under her breath as she slipped her shirt over her head. She wished she had something better to wear, but she just didn’t. That was why she was going shopping.

When she made it downstairs Jim and Isabel were talking to each other in hushed tones, and Maria knew they were talking about her, and she hated it. She cleared her throat and Jim and Isabel turned to her. Isabel didn’t have the smirk on her face like she usually did when it came to Maria, but that didn’t mean anything as for as Maria was concerned. She was probably playing nice until she was alone with Maria, and then she was going to really let her have it.

“Here you go, Maria,” Jim said opening his wallet and pulling out a credit card. “I want you to get anything you want. Not just clothes, but anything.” He said. Maria was a little uncomfortable with all of that generosity.

She felt obligated to ask, “How much money do you want me to spend?”

“Don’t worry about that,” Jim said shaking his head dismissively. “Just get plenty of clothes, and anything else you might want.” Jim said.

“Thank you so much,” Maria said, tears coming to her eyes, but she didn’t want to cry in front of them, especially not Isabel. So she took a deep breath and got control of her emotions before turning to Isabel, looking at her awkwardly.

“Ok, let’s go,” Isabel said, in a tone she hadn’t heard Isabel use with her in almost 4 years. Maria nodded silently and followed her out to her brand new Jeep. “So, where to first?” Isabel asked, sticking the keys into the ignition.

“Ummm, well, I don’t really know,” Maria said, somewhat ashamed. “I haven’t been shopping in years,” she said, “Though you of course know that.” She couldn’t keep the bite out of her voice no matter how much she tried. She was trying to be the bigger person, and not let them get to her, but the truth was they had hurt her, and it wasn’t fair.

Isabel sighed and took the keys out of the ignition. She turned to Maria and waited patiently for Maria to look at her, “Maria, I think we need to talk,” she said. “How about lunch before we shop.” Maria nodded silently and Isabel started the car again and headed to the Crashdown. No one was ever there in the middle of the day Saturday, so they could have the whole place to themselves.

When they sat down, they were silent for a while before Maria finally cut the silence asking, “So, what do you want to talk about.”

“Maria, I’m sorry for the way I’ve acted.” Isabel said, and Maria could tell that Isabel was eating a lot of crow right now, so she should just let her talk.

“The way I’ve treated you isn’t right, and I have no defense for myself. The truth is, I didn’t know how bad it was with your mom. I didn’t know that you guys were having such hard times, I just thought you were being weird.” Isabel said. “Not that I had any right to treat you the way that I did, even if you WERE just being weird.” Isabel said, shaking her head to get back on track. “The point is, then Sheriff Valenti told me what happened to you, and Kyle told me he was taking you in, I really felt bad.”

Maria listened to Isabel and thought. It didn’t really change anything. Isabel still treated her like crap, and sure she was sorry, but what good did that do her? On the other hand, what good would it do to hold a grudge? Wouldn’t it be better for her to be the bigger person? There was one thing she had to know though, “Why, after how close we were in Jr. High did you, Tess, and Kyle turn on me? Was it Michael? What happened?” It had been burning in her since the first day of high school.

“I don’t think it was Michael.” Isabel said, chewing on a fry, “We were dumb. We still are dumb. Tess and I have talked, and we do feel really bad. Nothing we do can make up for what we have done, but we would like to try.” Isabel said, “Actually, Tess wanted to come with us today, but she was afraid you wouldn’t want to hang out with us.”

“Is this just because I live with the Sheriff now? Is that why you want to hang out with me again?” Maria asked.

“No,” Isabel said firmly, “This has nothing to do with that. You going to the hospital was what made us realize how stupid we’ve been.”

“So, why does Kyle still hate me?” Maria scoffed, not really expecting an answer, just sort of speaking out loud.

Isabel chuckled lightly at that, but when she realized Maria didn’t see the humor she sobered up, “You and Kyle were so close when we were younger. To tell the truth, Tess and I always sort of felt like we were on the outside of whatever you guys had. That is why we got so close. But I think you just need to give him time. I mean, not only is he a guy, so he obviously needs help,” Isabel laughed, “but he is also dealing with the fact that you are moving into his house, he probably feels like an ass for the way he treated you, and he is just taking that frustration out on you.” Isabel answered, her true caring nature out in full force.

Maria thought about it for a second and then turned her attention back to Isabel, “So, do you want to be friends again?” she asked, her voice softer this time.

“I would love that, but I understand if you hate us, and don’t want to speak to us again,” Isabel said, but Maria could tell she was being honest.

“Ok, let’s give it a shot,” Maria said sipping her coke, “I’m starting over, and I’m not going to hold grudges, but I don’t know if it can ever be like it was,” she added.

“Thank you, Maria.” Isabel said, the smile back in her eyes. “Which reminds me, do you want to spend the night tonight?”

Maria nearly chuckled at how fast things had changed. This was really going to be hard to get used to. “I’ll have to ask, Jim.” She said.

“Oh, I talked to him. He thinks it would be a great idea.” Isabel said, in her usual, I have everything covered tone. “Plus, Tess is staying the night, as well as Michael and Kyle, and this way Michael can get to know you.”

Maria was a little frightened at the idea, but finally nodded. Hell, if is sucked, or they were playing one elaborate joke on her, she could always go back to the house and forget about all of them.

TBC…

[gnrkrystle]

Chapter 5

“So, what’s wrong with you?” Max asked Kyle as Kyle plopped down on the couch. They’d just finished playing Madden 2002, and Kyle usually kicked his ass, but today his Colts lost big to Max’s Patriots. Plus, Max was no dummy. He knew something was bothering Kyle, and he was pretty sure he knew exactly what it was.

“Nothing,” Kyle bit out, further proof that there was, in fact, something wrong.

“Tell that story to someone who will believe it.” Max chuckled. “Now really. Tell me what is wrong because I think I know what it is, and if you ask me you are acting like a child,” Max said, his voice in a tone that signified that he could offer advice as a third party.

Kyle sighed and turned to his friend, “Fine, it’s Maria, ok.” He said, running a frustrated hand through his hair.

“Ok, Mr. Obvious. I know that. The question is, why are you so upset.” Max said, knowing he was going to have to be patient with Kyle. This was going to be like pulling teeth.

“Why shouldn’t I be angry?” Kyle shot back, “My dad moved her in without even asking me!”

Max rolled his eyes. “And I hear what you are saying, but the thing is, you sound like a spoiled brat.” Kyle looked as if he had been slapped, but Max continued. “First of all, your dad doesn’t need your permission to bring a girl in from an abusive household. He pays the bills, he can do what he wants with his house. And frankly, the way that you, Isabel, and Tess, have treated Maria ever since you got to High School, it’s awfully heartless of you to not care about her plight. Your house is huge, one more person living in it, will not ruin your life.”

“That’s not the point, Max.” Kyle said, his argument dying as he knew everything Max was saying was absolutely right.

“Then what is the point, Kyle?” Max said, giving him his undivided attention.

“The point is…the point…” Kyle growled in frustration. Max watched him and tried not to laugh out loud at his friend. Finally, Kyle ran out of steam thing of his point and sighed, “Look, I know what you are saying. Your right. I sound like a child. And I don’t really care that Maria is living with us, and frankly I am glad she isn’t with her mother anymore. Ihad no clue what she was going through. The point it, I’ve been nothing but an asshole to her for almost 4 years, and I’m just not ready to eat crow yet,” Kyle finally admitted.

Max nodded his head. It was just as he expected. “Well, that’s your right. However, as a friend, let me suggest that you just get over it and talk to her. I know you wont do it right away, but in time, you should. Think about this from her perspective. Everyone knew how close you two were when you were younger. Then you just turned on her. Isabel and Tess did too. Now she is living in your house, and you are treating her like you wish she would just go back to her abusive mother. I’m surprised the girl hasn’t lost it.” Max said.

“Yeah,” Kyle said, “Look, are we done with this conversation.”

“Whatever you want,” Max smiled, “Just think about what I said.” Kyle nodded, and turned back to the TV.

“So what are we doing tonight?’ Kyle asked.

“Michael’s coming over. Along with Tess and Maria.” Kyle nearly choked on the coke he was sipping.


********

“Maria, this would look great on you,” Isabel beamed as she pulled an emerald green tank top off the rack. Maria wasn’t so sure, only because she had been sort of used to baggy clothes with long sleeves, and always wore pants, or floor length skirts. But she decided she was going to try anything and everything Isabel picked, going with the same instinct that she was starting over anew.

Maria took it from her and looked at the size. “I’m not really sure what size I am.” She said.

“Well, we’ll try it on, but I’m guessing you are a 2/3. Which is something else I was going to talk to you about. We need to fatten you up,” Isabel laughed, her voice sweet and elegant as it had always been even when they were little. She was the only 12 year old that could have passed for 21.

Maria ducked her head and chuckled. That was true. She really did need to gain weight. “Your probably right,” she said. “Ok, how about I try these on, and you tell me what to keep.

Two hours later, Maria was done with that store and had several very nice things that she couldn’t wait to wear. It was so weird to be in a mall, shopping, and actually buying what she wanted. “So, how about we get a haircut and then hit a few more stores,” Isabel said, linking her arm in Maria, as they made their way to the salon.

Maria ended up, just getting a trim, not really willing to change her hair too much, but she got about 2 inches cut of in split ends and when she was done, she was feeling much better about herself. Now once, her rib was completely healed, she knew she would be a brand new girl.

They shopped for 3 more hours, and Maria was beginning to get sick of the sight of clothes when Isabel said, “Ok, let’s call it a day. You’ve gotten a whole new wardrobe, a haircut, and shoes. Plus, my feet are killing me.” She laughed.

Maria nodded in agreement. “Ok, sounds good.” She stopped for a minute and turned to Isabel. “Thank you so much for taking me shopping today. There is no telling what Jim would have picked out,” she laughed.

“You’re welcome Maria. And before you know it, you will have that sense of style I remember about you back,” Isabel grinned and winked at Maria. “Ok, off to my house. I made Tess make the trip to the grocery store, and she should be there.”

“Ok, sounds like a plan,” Maria said, getting more and more nervous about a night with Isabel, Max, Tess and most of all Michael and Kyle. She didn’t know Michael, and Kyle was obviously not her biggest fan.

*******

Maria bit her lip anxiously as they approached Isabel’s house. She took a few deep breaths as Isabel shut off the car and closed her eyes to collect herself. “Maria, calm down,” Isabel said, feeling bad because she knew she was partly, if not mostly to blame for Maria’s feeling so unwelcome. “Everyone knows you are coming, and I promise no one is going to hurt you,” she said.

“I know,” Maria said, “It’s just weird.” She smiled. She could do this. And again, if it was the most horrible night of her life, she could always go home and never come back. “Ok, lets good,” she said, opening her door after she gave herself a little pep talk. She just hopped everyone didn’t spend the whole night feeling sorry for her. That might be worse than being mean to her.

Isabel smiled and nodded as she followed Maria up to the house and let them both in. Maria looked around and smiled at how little it had changed. The Evans’ had had the same classic décor in their house for as long as she could remember, and she felt nostalgia creeping up around her. She liked it. “Izzy?’ she heard Max’s voice call out.

“Coming,” she yelled back, toward the voice that seemed to be coming from the living room. Maria followed her silently into the living room where Tess, Kyle, Max, and Michael were lounging and watching a movie. Maria immediately felt awkward and max paused the movie and everyone stared at her. It was so weird. Her life was completely turning around. People used to ignore her, now they couldn’t stop staring. “I’m sure you all remember Maria,” Isabel presented, a smile in her voice.

“Hey, Maria, glad you could come. We are watching Scream 3, we are only about 20 minutes in,” Max said, ever the good host. He had never been very close to Maria. He knew her, and talked to her occasionally when she was friends with his sister, but when he was younger he was kind of a loner. Now, he hung out with the popular kids, but he was so busy with school, he didn’t make time to make new friends. After he heard about what happened with Maria, he felt horrible. He wished he had taken the time to care about someone other than himself.

“Thanks,” she said eying the seating arrangements. The couch and chairs were taken, which meant she would have to sit on the floor. That didn’t sound like fun, since her ribs still hurt, but she wasn’t going to complain. But before she could give it a second thought, Michael, stood up.

“Sit here,” he said, and his tone was polite. She had never in her life heard Michael Guerin use a polite tone with ANYONE. She had to control the shock on her face.

“Thank you,” she said, a warm smile crossing her face before she could stop it. She sat down where Michael was sitting next to Kyle and curled her feet up under her, leaning against the armrest of the couch. Isabel sat next to Michael on the floor and Max pressed play again. Maria was glad that no one made a big deal about her being there. She could tell that Tess was itching to talk to her, she could always read Tess. She was an open book of emotions.

Kyle didn’t say anything either, but he did look at her and didn’t scowl, so she was counting her blessings. Max was warm, as he always had been, and Michael gave her his seat, so she couldn’t really fault the guy now that she was giving everyone a second chance.

So, all in all, things were going well, except for the fact that Maria didn’t really like Scary movies. Actually, she was terrified of them. And since the movie had just started, she knew he was going to have to watch almost two hours worth of horror.

Kyle let his eyes wander over to Maria. He could tell that the movie was scaring her, and he couldn’t help but chuckle on the inside. The movie wasn’t even scary. She looked better. Not that Maria had ever looked bad, per say, but she hadn’t looked really good in a long time. Now, he knew why, and dammed if he didn’t feel like an asshole for not noticing it before. Her mother was abusing her, you idiot! But the life was coming back to her and he was grateful for that, especially since he felt personally responsible for the problem in the first place.

He of all people should have known. But he hadn’t, and he wasn’t quite ready to admit it, even though he had admitted it to himself. He didn’t know how to make the first step, and even though Max was right, he had to talk to her, he didn’t know how to sort of call a truce.

Before he knew it the movie was over and Max flipped the lights back on. “I’m starving,” he said. “Let’s get a pizza.” Everyone agreed and told Max what they wanted, and when he left the room, Tess came over and sat down next to Maria on the arm of the sofa.

“Hey, ‘Ria,” she said, using the nickname she used to use with her. “I am so sorry for how I’ve acted. Can you ever forgive me?”

Maria chuckled at how she got right to the point, “Yeah, I can forgive you. I’ve decided to move on. I’m starting over.” She answered.

“Good,” Tess said, and before she knew it Tess pulled her into a bear hug.

‘Oh ow,” Maria said, as Tess pressed her a little harder than her ribs liked.

“Are you ok?” Michael asked, looking at Tess like she was crazy.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” maria said, laughing it off.

“I’m so sorry! I forgot,” Tess said, and Maria could tell she felt awful.

“Don’t worry about it,” she said. She couldn’t help but think about Michael’s reaction though. Of all people, she didn’t expect that Michael would give up his seat, or care whether she was in pain or not. She wanted to talk to him, ask him why he was being so nice, but she didn’t have the slightest idea how to broach the subject with him. She decided to take her blessings where she could get them and move on.

When Max got back into the room he plopped back down on the Lazy-Boy, “So what do you guys want to do now,” he asked.

Everyone looked around at everyone else. “We could always play Truth or Dare,” Isabel suggested, and Maria could tell that this was a game they played together, often.

TBC…

[gnrkrystle]

Chapter 6

Maria almost laughed out loud when she heard Isabel’s suggestion that they play “truth or dare.” Weren’t they like almost 18?

She noticed Kyle rolled his eyes, “Are you serious, Izzy?” he asked. “We’ve played this so many times, and the same thing happens every time. We all say truth, until Izzy or Tess goads us into a Dare, one of us kisses, and then it’s done.” he said in frustration.

“Well, we haven’t played with Maria,” Isabel said, getting comfortable on the floor next to Michael. Maria ducked her head and grinned. She could believe she was doing this.

“Ok, so who starts,” Max said, with a sigh, and Maria could tell that this game was all Isabel and Tess’s doing, and they seemed to always get their way.

“Ok, look, we will just go around once. And you don’t have to say dare, if you don’t want.” Tess said sitting on the other side of the couch. “I’ll go first.” She smoothed out her skirt as she sat up straighter. “Hmmm,” she pondered, tapping her finger on her chin. “Maria!” she said, excitedly. “Truth or Dare.”

Maria had feeling she would be the first person picked on. “Ummm, Truth,” she said, being safe. No way was she leaving a dare up to these people. Didn’t trust them THAT much.

Tess grinned and winked, knowing that Maria would choose dare. “Have you ever had sex?” she asked.

Maria’s eyes doubled at the intensity of the question. She noticed Isabel shot a glare at Tess.

“You don’t have to answer that, Maria.” Michael said, wondering what had gotten into Tess. Tess looked at her friends in confusion. These were the usual questions they asked in this game. She just wanted to make Maria feel welcome.

Kyle nearly choked when he heard the question. Max had much the same reaction.

“No, it’s fine.” Maria said, taking a deep breath. If she was going to join in with them, she wanted to be excepted as part of the group. She wanted them to treat her like she was one of them. “No. I’ve never had sex,” she answered, tucking her feet under her on the couch.

Everyone let out a collective breath of relief that Maria wasn’t offended by the question. “So it’s my turn, right?’ Maria asked.

“Yep,” Max said, crossing his legs and leaning back in the lazy-boy.

A smile pulled across Maria’s delicate features. “Ok, Max.” She said, looking to the host of the party, “Truth or Dare.” She asked, lifting her right brow.

Max cleared his through and answered, “Truth,” as he always did.

“Are you in love with Liz Parker?” she asked. She really didn’t know that much about Liz or Max, but they were dating, however, she seemed conspicuously missing at this get together. She noticed an eye roll and grin from both Isabel and Tess when she asked. Hmmm, this could be interesting.

“Yes, Max, are you?” Kyle goaded with a grin on his face.

Max’s face turned read, but as a man of his word, he answered, “No.” Isabel and Tess high fived each other at his answer and he rolled his eyes. “I don’t know what you guys have against her. She is a nice girl.”

“Yeah,” Isabel said, dismissively.

“Anyway, my turn.” Max said, turning to his sister. “Truth or Dare.”

“Well, since I’m not a pussy, I’ll say Dare!” Isabel said, very sure of her decision.

“Ok,” Max said, the smile returning to his features. “I dare you to make out with Michael for 30 seconds.” It seemed weird for Max to was his sister to kiss one of his friends, but he knew for a fact they had at thing for each other and had been dancing around it for ages now. If she wanted to talk shit about Liz, he was going to make sure she got hers.

Isabel never flinched, but if you paid close attention to her eyes, you would notice that they flickered with rage, but she quickly recovered. “Ok,” she said, crawling over to Michael, who looked just a little scared. Maria had never seen him like that before.

Finally, Kyle thought as he watched Isabel lean into Michael. If those two didn’t have it bad for each other, no one did. Maybe this would be a step forward for them.

Michael felt Isabel’s breath on his lips as he made the final movie, leaning into her. Their lips met and sparks flew.

She tried to hold back a moan as his tongue entered her mouth. As much as she wanted to be mad at Max for doing this to her, she couldn’t help but feel excitement as she kissed Michael for the first time. In all their games, no one had ever gotten around to daring them to kiss each other.

Maria smirked at the two of them. Oh yeah, they had it bad. She wondered why they didn’t just tell each other how they felt. It was obvious to everyone else at that moment, she knew it.

“Ok, time’s up,” Max said, looking at his watch and smiling. The two took a few more seconds wrapped up in each other, then pulled apart, both other them looking at each other sort of dazed.

“Ok, so It’s my turn,” Isabel finally said as she moved back to her spot on the floor. She looked around the room, giving great thought to who she would ask. “Ok, Kyle. Truth or Dare.”

Kyle sat up straighter on the couch and cleared his throat, “Truth,” he said, unsure what Isabel would ask. It could be anything with that girl.

Isabel perked up. She knew he would say that, “Have you ever had a crush on any of the people in this room, and if so, who?’ she asked. She knew the answer, but she thought this was just what the group needed to truly bring Maria back to part of the family. Plus, she liked to watch Kyle squirm. He was a nice guy and a lot of fun, but ever since Maria got hurt, he had been uptight ad moody.

Kyle nearly choked as she asked her question. He glared at her, knowing that she had set him up. But he was a man of his word, and there was no use lying, Isabel and Max would call him out on it, and then it would look even worse. “Yes, when we were younger I had a crush on Maria,” he said, chancing a glance at Maria, who looked like her eyes were about to bug out of her head. She quickly recovered though, not wanting Kyle to feel embarrassed.

She couldn’t believe it. Kyle had a crush on her when they were little. And he admit it is, no less. She knew she had to have entered the twilight zone at that moment. Everyone in the room fell silent, and Maria knew that Kyle was probably fuming at Isabel, so she decided to cut the tension. She leaned over to Kyle, placed her hand on his thigh and said aloud, “It’s ok, everyone did,” as a smile spread across her face. He looked at her gratefully, and the rest of the room laughed.

The game went two more rounds, Michael had to tell the group how many sexual partners he’d had, it was only 2, and Tess had to fellate a banana. After that, the group was pretty much over it, and went their separate ways. The guys went to Max’s room and the girls went to Isabel’s.

“So, I just wanted to say I’m really sorry for the way I’ve acted,” Tess said as she plopped down on the bed next to Maria.

“I know, Tess.” Maria said with a smile. “You are forgiven,” she chuckled. It was too much trouble to hold grudges, and Isabel and Tess had already proven to her that they were sincere.

Then Maria was tackled into a big hug by Tess. “I’m sorry if that question I asked offended you,” she said after she let Maria out of her clutches, this time being mindful of her hurt rib.

“Oh, it’s fine. So…are you guys…I mean have you…” Maria started, unsure if she should ask them if they were also virgins.

“Still have our V cards,” Isabel said with a bright smile.

“Though, I think Isabel would like to lose that V-card to one, Michael Guerin.” Tess giggled.

Isabel’s face turned bright red. “Shut up,” she hissed.

“No, really, what’s going on with you two?” Maria asked stuffing her mouth with popcorn.

“Nothing,” Isabel said as he face turned 10 different shades of red.

Tess rolled her eyes, “Don’t let her lie, she has been in love with Michael for like 3 years. And he likes her too, they are just slow.” Tess answered for her friend. She just couldn’t watch them paw at each other anymore without doing something about it.

“Hmm,” Maria said, thinking. “Well, I say go for it.”

Suddenly there as a knock at the door. “Come in,” Isabel yelled. It was Michael. “Michael. Hi!” She said, awkwardly, scolding Tess and Maria in her head. “Need something.”

“Can I steal Maria for a sec?” he asked, smiling warmly at Isabel. Maria nodded and followed him out the door.

“What’s up?” she asked, confused as to why he would want to talk to her.

“I just wanted to tell you that, if you need to talk to anyone, you know, about your mom or anything, you can talk to me. I know we don’t know each other very well, and I’ve never been that nice to you, but I know what you are going through.” Michael said, looking down at the floor.

Maria looked at him, “Is that why you live on your own?” she asked, finally putting together why he had been so nice to her earlier.

“Yeha,” he shrugged. “My foster dad was a drunk.”

“Wow, well thank you Michael.” Maria smiled, and before she could help herself she wrapped her arms around him for a hug. He gave into it, hesitantly, then pulled back and smiled. “Ok, goodnight,” Maria said. Now, she knew she couldn’t hold anything against Michael. He had gone through what she was going through, and he could probably help her.

Michael moved back into Max’s room, and sat down on the floor. “Where did you go?” Kyle asked, sipping his coke, his mood getting a little better. Maybe it wasn’t going to be so bad living with Maria. So, she knew he had a crush on her once? That was no big deal. And she seemed to be forgiving of Isabel and Tess, so she could probably forgive him. That was, if he made an effort to be nice to her, which he had yet to do. He just had to think of something to do to sort of break the ice.

“Talk to Maria.” Michael said.

“About Hank?” Max asked, figuring that Michael would do that at some point.

“Yeah,” Michael said. “I mean, I just feel really bad. I went through the same thing, and yet, through my stupidity I made life harder on her. I of all people should have known better.”

“Don’t you think I should have known better?” Kyle bit out. His disgust with himself shining through. “I mean, she was my best friend, and I didn’t even know what her mother was an alcoholic, let alone abusive.” He cried out, mindful that he needed to keep his voice down.

“I know, man,” Max said, wondering if Kyle would finally break. “But, she is ok now. You get a second chance to make up for what you did. We all do, and Maria is awfully nice to give us that, so let’s make the most of it. Starting with maybe talking to her,” he said looking pointedly at Kyle.

“Ok,” Kyle said. He took a deep breath and decided to forget about the past. At least the part where he decided he was too good for Maria, and move on. He would make it known to her that he was sorry, and maybe, just maybe they could be friends again.

**********

The next morning, everyone got up and packed their stuff. Midterms were coming up, and most of them needed to study. On the way out, Kyle noticed Maria getting ready to walk back to the house. “Here, ride with me,” he said, unlocking his Mustang. Maria smiled and nodded, getting into the passenger seat.

The ride back to the Valenti’s was silent, but not as awkward as it had been between Kyle and Maria. Maria didn’t want to make the first movie, and Kyle had no idea what to say. There were many things he wanted to say, but he couldn’t quite say them.

Finally, Maria couldn’t take it anymore. She realized that Kyle didn’t hate her sometime last night, now she realized that if they were ever going to speak, she was going to have to melt the ice. “So, you had a crush on me, huh?” she asked, a grin playing across her face.

Kyle rolled his eyes and grinned back at her. “Yeah, well we were 12.” He laughed. “Besides, you were my best friend,” he said more awkwardly.

“Yeah, we were close,” Maria said, reminiscing.

“Maria, I’m sorry,” Kyle said, but he didn’t elaborate. Maria knew that this was hard for him, so she made it easier.

“It’s ok, Kyle. Can we just start over?” she asked.

“Yeah.” Kyle said with a smile, “I’d like that.”

TBC…

[gnrkrystle]

Chapter 7

The rest of the weekend, Maria studied. She had begun to forget what it was like to study uninterrupted. She couldn’t help but distract herself as she dove into Robert Frost, and WWII materials. All the free time was more than she could handle. She had learned how to study and work under pressure, and now she didn’t know If she could even function any other way.

Sunday night, she was sitting in front of the television when Kyle came home from football practice. “Hey,” he said, setting his gear by the door as he walked into the living room.

“How was practice?” Maria asked. There conversations were easier now, but they still hadn’t really talked much.

“Fine, coach rode my ass tonight though,” Kyle said stretching his arms over his head as he plopped down on the couch next the Maria. “So, get that History paper finished?” he asked.

Maria grinned sheepishly, “That would be a no.”

“But I thought you were like a straight A student,” Kyle joked, “should you have that, and all your other work done already?” he was playing with her, but there was some genuine surprise in his voice. He just always figured that since high school Maria was an ‘eye-on-the-prize’ kind of student.

Maria pursed her lips and turned to Kyle. “Well,” she said, “the truth is, I’m finding it hard to get motivated.”

“Hell, I know that feeling,” Kyle chuckled. “How did you do it before?”

Maria looked down at her hands as she spoke. “Well, school work was always an escape from whatever my mom was doing, saying, or fucking.” She bit out, then looked at Kyle. “Sorry,” she said quietly.

“Don’t apologize.” Kyle said, looking at her sadly. Maria had really been through some shit. “So, what you are saying is that now that you are happier, it’s harder to focus? I can understand that.” He said.

“Yeah, and now it just seems that I can’t do my work until the last minute.” Maria said, “I’ve tried to start that paper about 10 different times.” She chuckled, not wanting to think about her mother. She was blocking it, and escaping it, and she knew it but she didn’t care. Besides, she didn’t want to bring Kyle down.

“Well, what if we work on it together?” Kyle asked, still a little worried about Maria finishing her work.

“It is kind of an independent project,” Maria chuckled.

“I know,” Kyle said getting up and extending his hand to Maria, who took it as he helped her off the couch. “But, we can keep each other company. Besides, what else is there to do? Watch Jerry Springer?” he said cocking his head toward the television.

“I guess your right,” Maria sighed and followed him upstairs. “Your room or mine?”

“Yours, it’s bigger,” Kyle said.

Four hours later they finished up their work. “Whew,” Maria exclaimed, relieved to finally be done. “All done.”

“Uh huh,” Kyle said, half asleep already.

Maria looked down at him, laying next to her, and smiled. “Common Kyle, you gotta get up. You’re room is just 10 feet away. You can do it.” She laughed.

“Uh huh,” he said, his eyes fluttering. He sat up and rubbed his eyes, “Yeah, ok,” he said as he got up. “Night Maria,” he called back before disappearing to his room through the bathroom.

***********

“So, I was wondering, would it be ok…I mean, can I…” Maria started the next morning at the breakfast table.

“Spit it out, DeLuca,” Kyle chuckled good-naturedly.

She slapped him on the arm, and Jim watched, happily as his son, and Maria seemed to be getting along. “Just ask,” Jim said.

“I want to go back to working at the UFO Center,” she said, hoping that Jim wouldn’t get mad.

“Maria, you don’t have to be scared to ask me things,” Jim said seriously, knowing that she used to have to walk on egg shells around her mother, and he didn’t want her to feel that she had to do that with him. “And, you don’t have to work, but if you really want to, that would be fine with me.” Jim said taking a bite of his toast.

“Thank you,” Maria said with a bright smile. “I better go call Brody.” She said, getting up and going into the living room to get make her call.

She came back into the room, all smiles. “He said I can start back whenever I’m ready.” She said.

“I’ll take you there after school,” Kyle offered, finishing his juice.

“Thanks, Kyle.” Maria said. Jim smiled at them. Things had sure changed since she spent the night at the Evans’ house. He thought they might, but he did have his doubts. He was proud of his son for moving on and extending an olive branch and even more proud of Maria for being the bigger person and not holding a grudge. He wasn’t sure he could be so kind.

He hated to ruin her mood, but there was something they needed to talk about. “Ok, well before you go to school, I need to tell you that, your mother has decided to plead innocent.” Jim said, grimly.

Kyle watched Maria’s face fall. “What does that mean?” she asked.

“It means that there is going to be a trial, and the police are going to need to take another statement, and also you will probably have to testify against her.” Jim said. He knew it was hard on her, but it had to be done, or her mother would be free, which would mean Maria never would.

“Oh,” was all Maria said, but Jim and Kyle knew she was not happy with that news. “How can she do that?” Maria asked.

Jim sighed and looked up at her, “She’s saying it was temporary insanity.”

Maria shook her head and sighed. “Well, ok. I’ll think about it.” She said as she grabbed her backpack. “Ready?” she asked as she looked at Kyle. She wanted to get to school, and not think about her mother.

“Ummm, yeah,” Kyle said, knowing Maria was trying to avoid further discussion of the topic at hand. He led the way out to the car and Maria slid into the passenger seat with ease. He started the car and headed down the road to school.

Before they pulled into the parking lot he turned to Maria, who hadn’t said a word since breakfast. “So, what are you going to do?” he asked, knowing it was the wrong thing to say ask it came tumbling out of his mouth.

She looked at him for a moment, her brows knitting together. “What do you mean, what am I going to do? I don’t know Kyle. I said I would think about it!” she almost yelled. Why couldn’t he just let it go?

Kyle wanted to do just that, but he had committed himself already, and truth be told, he didn’t understand what there was to THINK about. “So, you are thinking about just letting the charges go?” he asked.

“It’s not like a CAN is it?’ she said. “I was a minor. There is already a case against her.” She huffed. Kyle had pulled into the parking space, and he turned off the car before turning back to her.

“But, I mean, you want to press charges right? I mean, Maria, she could have killed you.” He spoke incredulously. He couldn’t understand why Maria was being so difficult about this.

“Yes, I know that, Kyle.” She bit out. She was there, remember. “It’s not that simple. We don’t all have perfect existences. Some of us have issues, and no matter how much our mothers may screw up, they are still our mothers.” She said.

At that point, Kyle saw red. Perfect existence? What a crock. “Yeah, well some of us don’t have mothers,” he said, his voice hushed and angry as he left the car, slamming the door in a shocked Maria’s face. She was stunned for a moment before she got out of the car. She hadn’t even thought about it like that. She’d been so busy feeling sorry for herself that she didn’t even think about the fact that Kyle had gone through tough times as well.

She walked hurriedly into school, for the first time, having plenty of time to get to her locker and get to class in time. She continued to think about Kyle. She didn’t even know why his mother left. She remembered that it happened when they were in 3rd grade, but they had never really talked about it. To tell the truth, she had completely forgotten about his mother, but she could bed that Kyle hadn’t forgotten.

She sat in her seat for first period, and for the first time that morning, she noticed that everyone in the room was staring at her. Not in the way people used to, but more with concern and remorse. She uncomfortably shifted in her seat and Alex leaned over and whispered to her, “Hey, glad you are back,” he smiled. She smiled back at him.

“Thank you,” she said. Before she could open her book, Kyle, Michael, Isabel, and Tess walked into the room, Max and Liz close behind.

“Morning, Maria.” Isabel greeted with a bright smile.

Everyone greeted her, except Kyle who wasn’t making eye contact with her. He knew he shouldn’t have blown up at her like that, but he just didn’t want Maria to let her mother get away with what she did, and to tell the truth, the mother issue was something that he had yet to deal with.

Everyone took their seats, and class began. Mr. Seligman was unusually friendly to Maria, and she was pretty sure she knew why, but she wasn’t going to turn down any amount of kindness she was given. To tell the truth, all of her teachers took a better attitude to toward her. Ms. Jacobs even pulled her aside after class and told her that she was in her prayers.

Soon, the school day was over, and Maria bit her lip as she walked out to Kyle’s car, hoping he was still going to take her to work. She sure had pissed him off. He hadn’t spoken to her all day. She got to the car first and waited. It wasn’t long before Kyle came jogging out to the car.

No words were exchanged as they got into the car, but Maria couldn’t take the silence anymore. She had started getting closer to Kyle, and she wasn’t about to let that go. “Kyle, I’m sorry.” She said, “I never even thought about your feelings when I spoke this morning. I was just upset.”

Kyle stole a glance at Maria. She was amazing. When he had been in the wrong, she apologized. “No, I was out of line. It was unfair to pull the mom card out on you.” He sighed and stopped at a red light. “I just don’t want you to let your mom get away with what she did. If you have to testify I think you should. I know it will be hard, but the alternative is letting her get away with it.” Kyle said. He hadn’t meant to be so candid in his reply, but he just couldn’t help it. Something was telling him that he needed to push Maria.

Maria sighed and nodded. “I know you are right. But it’s just hard. I’ll have to tell the police everything, and the court. I just…I just don’t know if I’m ready for that.” Maria said.

“You can do it.” Kyle said, putting his hand on Maria’s leg. “And all of us will help.” Then, as if he just noticed where he placed his hand, he moved it quickly back to the steering wheel.

“Thank you, Kyle.” Maria said, her cheeks growing rosy as Kyle touched her leg. That was new. She shook herself back into reality. They pulled up to the UFO Center, and Maria started to get out.

“So, when do you get off?” Kyle asked before she got out.

“10,” Maria answered.

“Ok, I’ll be here.” Kyle said, a smile back on his face. He knew that the best thing he could do for Maria would be to be her friend, not interrogate her.

“Oh, you don’t have to…I mean…I can walk back,” Maria said.

“I’ll be here,” Kyle said again, and Maria smiled and nodded.

“Ok.” She said, getting out of the car and walking into the UFO Center. It took her a second to find Brody, who was rustling through some papers on his desk.

“Maria!” he greeted, a smile coming to his face. “I’m so glad you are here. Are you sure you are ready to work again?” He wanted to make sure she wasn’t taking on too much too soon.

“Yeah, I’ve actually missed it,” Maria said, and Brody couldn’t help but notice how much better she looked. The dark circles under her eyes were almost gone. In the few weeks since she had gotten out of the hospital, she had already started gaining weight. And he clothes were clean and new.

“Well, ok, let’s get started. I actually missed you.” Brody said. He’d missed her in more ways than one, but he was specifically talking about her help. He didn’t hire anyone to take her place and she was his on employee, so he was getting behind in a ot of paper work. “The convention is coming up next month and I’ve got loads of paperwork.” He said looking at Maria helplessly.

She smiled at him. “Well, let’s get to work then.” She said sitting in front of his desk and grabbing a stack of papers.

**********

“Whew.” Maria said as she slid into Kyle’s car. “I’m tired.”

“Yeah, me too.” Kyle replied turning the corner. “So, how was work.”

“Awesome.” Maria said with a smile.

“I’ve never heard anyone so ecstatic about work.” Kyle chuckled.

“I like Brody a lot, and though he may be a little odd, he really helped me out,” Maria said, “you know? So, I like to work with him. And it gives me something to do. You know, to keep my mind off of other things.”

“Yeah,” Kyle answered quietly. He paused a moment and then snuck a look at Maria, who was idly looking out the window. “You know, if you ever want to talk. I’m here.” He said.

Maria turned and looked at him, a small smile crossing her lips. “Thank you, Kyle.” She said. “Maybe I’ll take you up on that sometime.” The more she thought, the more she realized that due to their past, and the fact that Kyle had been abandoned by his mother, he was probably the only friend she had that she COULD talk to.

She went to bed the minute she got home that night, feeling unusually tired. It was amazing how quickly she was getting used to an easier lifestyle. She would deal with the police and her mother tomorrow, but tonight, she was going to sleep.

TBC…

[gnrkrystle]

Chapter 8


“Kyle…Can I ask you a favor?” Maria asked from his bedroom door, as she nervously bit her lip.

“Yeah, what’s up?” Kyle asked, as he looked up from his laptop.

Maria hesitantly walked into his room and sat down on his bed next to him. “Could you…I mean, I understand if you don’t want you, but I’d really like it if you could…” she stuttered before Kyle stopped her by grabbing her shoulders and turning her to face him.

“Maria. Spit it out. I won’t yell at you,” he said. He would have laughed if he weren’t positive she was really afraid he would flip out on her for asking a favor. He wished she didn’t feel like she needed to walk on egg shells around him and everyone else.

Maria rolled her eyes at him, but grinned. She hated that she was always second guessing herself. But her mother had done that to her. “Ok, Will you go to the police station with me today?”

Kyle perked up. “Why are you going to the station.”

“I’m going to talk to my mother, and then I’m going to make my statement.” Maria said, her voice filled with more confidence.

Kyle smiled at her. “That’s awesome, Maria.” He said, as he pulled her into his arms without thing, wrapping her in bear hug. When he noticed the position they were in, he cleared his throat and let her go, his face blushing.

“Let’s go,” he said, getting up and grabbing his keys. Maria smiled, a little confused by Kyle’s touchy-feeliness, but she shook it off and kept going. She didn’t know why, but for some reason she felt like talk to her mom would be easier if Kyle was there. She trusted him, even though she shouldn’t. She couldn’t explain it.

They rode to the station in comfortable silence, and before they got out, Kyle turned to Maria, “I’m really proud of you, Maria.” He said. Now, that bitch who had hurt her would pay, just like she should.

Her mother looked awful as Maria entered the room and sat on the other side of the table her mother was already sitting out. “So, your pleading temporary insanity?’ Maria asked, a bite in her voice. She didn’t know where her confidence was coming from, but she would take it.

“Maria, why are you pressing charges?” her mother asked in a sugary sweet voice. “You know I’m sick.”

Maria was determined to hold her ground AND her composure. “No, you’re a drunk. You did this to yourself.” Maria said. “I just came by to tell you I am still going through with this, and good luck in court.” Maria said getting up to stand.

“Wait!” her mother called out, and Maria turned to her, without saying a word. “How can you do this to your mother?” Amy asked, anger at the edge of her voice.

“How could you do this to your daughter?” Maria asked, choking back tears that she swore to herself she wouldn’t let fall.

Maria quickly signed the previous statement she made and Kyle led her out of the police station. “You ok?” Kyle asked. She didn’t look ok, but he didn’t really know what else to say.

“Yeah,” Maria said, staring out of the window. “Are you going over to Max’s tonight?” she asked, having already been invited by Isabel.

“Yeah,” Kyle said. If she wanted to change the subject, that was fine with him.

Maria just nodded and stared out the window the rest of the trip home.

*********

Kyle sat on his bed watching, but not really watching the TV. He was really thinking about Maria. She looked so sad after they went to the station. He would have given anything to take Maria out of that situation. It sucked. And it wasn’t right. She was the victim.

Then there was the fact of all these weird sexual feelings he was having for her. It was freaking him out. Sure, she was hot. And he HAD been like in love with her in Junior High. But times had changed, and she was like his sister now. Or was she? He sighed and decided that it didn’t matter what sexual feelings he was having for her, he was going to be a friend to her, and check him hormones at the door. Maybe he could talk to Max about it later.

He was pushed from his thoughts as he heard Maria whimpering across the bathroom door in her room. He knew something was off about her. He bit his lip and debated about whether he should go to her or not. Finally he decided, and pushed himself to his feet, crossing to her room door through the bathroom. He knocked lightly and heard her sniffle.

“Yeah?” she called.

“Can I come in, Maria?” Kyle asked.

“Ummm… Yeah,” she said, figuring there was no hiding that she was crying. Besides, maybe she should let Kyle in a little bit. She felt safe with him for some reason. Kyle slowly entered the room and sure enough Maria was laying on her bed, crying into her pillow.

“Maria, what’s wrong?” Kyle asked, sitting next to her on the bed. She sat up too and looked at him.

“It’s nothing,” she said, wiping her eyes, “I’m just being stupid.” She tried to laugh it off, unsuccessfully, as her laugh turned into a sob.

Without thinking, Kyle pulled her into his arms and rocked her as she cried. “Maria, common, tell me what’s wrong,” he said, his tone soothing.

“I’m just feeling sorry for myself,” Maria mumbled into his shirt. She pulled back, and seeing the wet spot from her tears on his chest, she smirked a little and said, “Sorry.”

“Don’t worry about it,” Kyle smiled warmly at her. “Now, tell me what’s got you so sad.” He had an idea, but he knew that Maria needed to talk. She was keeping too much inside. After all she had been through from not only her mother, but him and his friends, she should have broken down weeks ago.

“It’s just…” she said, searching for the words to explain her feelings. “I just wish I didn’t have to deal with this. I wish I had a mom who loved and cared about me.” Maria said, “And I’m just feeling sorry for myself.”

“Maria, you have every reason to feel sorry for yourself,” he said rubbing slow circles on her back. “Maria, look at me,” he said as she continued to look down at her hands. She sighed and turned her face toward his, so she was looking him in the eyes. “After all you’ve been through, you deserve to wallow in self-pity. I just wouldn’t want you to waste your life on it. Maybe your mom doesn’t love you,” he said, knowing it sounded harsh, but there was no use lying to Maria or sugar coating.

Maria, in turn, appreciated Kyle’s candor, and let him continue. “But, there are other people that do. My dad adores you. Brody obviously cares about you. And the group loves you, even though we did a piss poor job of showing it over they years.” Kyle said, still upset at himself.

“I know,” Maria said, with a sigh, “and I really am grateful for what I have. It’s a hell of a lot more than I had less than a month ago.” She chuckled at the irony.

“I’m sorry about that Maria,” Kyle said, looking down.

“No, that’s not what I meant,” Maria said with a smile, as she lifted his face to look into her eyes. She nearly shivered at the intensity of his gaze, but continued, “I mean, what I went through with my mom, and the men…well, let’s just say, no offense, but the way you guys treated me was the least of my worries.” She smiled and took her hand away from Kyle’s face.

Kyle smiled back at her. “We ok now?” he asked.

“Yeah, thank you for listening, Kyle.” Maria said, feeling much better.

“Well, anytime you need to talk, I’m here.” Kyle said, meaning it with his whole heart. He liked being Maria’s shoulder to cry on. He felt important. And as stupid as that sounded, he wanted to be important to her.

“You’re the best,” Maria said, Pulling Kyle into a tight hug.

Kyle closed his eyes and breathed in Maria’s smell, as she held him close to her. She smelled like cinnamon and mint. He didn’t know why, but she always smelled like that, even when they were little. It must be all those oils she sniffed.

He could have stayed like that for a few more minutes, but he was sure if he did, he’d have a very visible problem, so he pulled back, chuckling lightly, “Ok, enough of this sappy stuff. Ready to go to Max and Isabel’s?”

Maria nodded and smiled, grabbing her overnight bag.

***********

“You and Kyle seem to be getting along much better now,” Isabel said with a smile as they sat down at the kitchen counter in front of the pizza they had ordered.

“Yeah,” Maria smiled, “I like him.” She said, taking a bite of her pizza. “He’s cool.”

“Maria, you’re babbling,” Isabel laughed.

“Ok, well, how about you. Have you told Michael you are in love with him yet?” Maria asked, cocking her eyebrow up.

Isabel quickly stopped laughing and blushed. “Well…actually, we…we have a date for Saturday.” She said, shyly. Maria thought it was so funny how she got when talking about Michael in a romantic way.

“That’s awesome.” Maria said. “Maybe I should find someone to date,” she laughed. She wasn’t really interested in anyone. She kind of liked just hanging out at the house with Kyle. Speaking of… “Hey, why doesn’t Kyle date anyone? I never really thought to ask, but I NEVER see him with girls besides you and Tess.”

“That’s a great mystery,” Isabel said, chugging her soda. “He’s dated a few girls, never seriously, but I don’t know. There are plenty of girls who have tried, believe me, but I guess he is just not into it. I thought he was gay for a while,” She laughed at that, “But then I found porn in his room one day when I was at his house.”

Maria and Isabel collapsed in fits of laughter just as Max and Kyle walked into the kitchen. “What’s so funny?” Kyle asked.

That made the girls laugh even harder. “What?” Kyle asked, confused.

“Nothing,” Maria said, “just discussing porn,” she said, holding in her laughter the best she could.

“I don’t think I want to know,” Max said sitting at the counter and opening a coke.

“Anyway, what are you boys doing tonight?” Maria asked.

“Don’t know.” Max said.

“Well, that sounds exciting,” Isabel mocked.

“Well, what are you two doing?” Kyle asked.

“Picking up Tess, then we are headed to that new club.” Isabel said, excitedly. “Which reminds me, we need to get ready.” Maria nodded, and got up from her said.

“Yeah, we were thinking about going there too,” Kyle said, though he and Max had never discussed that.

Max gave him a weird look, and Kyle just shook his head at him, as if not to question.

“Well, guess we will see you there,’ Maria said with a smile as she followed Isabel up the stairs.

When they were gone, Max looked at Kyle. “A club? You realize we hate clubs.”

“Yeah, I know.” Kyle said.

“Is this a brotherly thing, where you feel this new responsibility to look out for Maria?” Max asked, a smirk coming to his lips.

“Yeah, something like that.” Kyle answered, averting his eyes and taking a sip of water.

*********

“Damn, this place is packed,” Tess yelled about the bumping music in the club.

“I know, right.” Isabel said. She was excited to get out of the house. There wasn’t much to do in Roswell, but this club opened up and she was excited. They all looked hot too. Isabel had poured herself into a skintight leather tube dress. Tess was wearing leather pants and a pink sequined halter top. Maria was in a jean miniskirt and a gold top that was held together by two strings.

“Ok, let’s hit the floor,” Tess said excitedly.

Maria would be lying if she said she didn’t feel out of place. It wasn’t too long ago that her entire social life consisted of idle chats with Brody at the UFO center. She had no way of knowing if she could even dance, as she hadn’t done it since before just swaying with the music was cool, like Jr. High. But Isabel and Tess were determined, so she let them drag her to the dance floor.

It wasn’t long before she was getting into it the way her friends were. Turned out dancing was the same as it always had been, swaying to the music, only you had to add in a little ass shake here and there, and ANYONE could do that.

Soon, there were guys coming up to her to dance as well. At first she was uncomfortable with them grinding into her, but she began to loosen up, and she was starting to actually have genuine fun.

When Kyle and Max entered to club, both of them looked out of place. Sure, they looked nice, and like the type of guys that would frequent a club, but the scowls on their faces didn’t help them fit in to their jovial surroundings.

“Kyle, please tell me we can leave soon.” Max grumbled.

“Yeah,” Kyle said, his eyes already scanning the crowd. He spotted Isabel first, because she was the tallest. Then he saw her. Maria was in the middle of the crowd dancing with some guy. He didn’t know who he was, but he hated him on principal. He controlled his rage as he saw the guy, probably 20 put his hands on Maria’s swaying hips, and turned to Max. “Let’s get a table.” He said. Max shrugged and followed his friend.

Maria began to get tired on the floor and decided to get a drink of water, but before she could make it to the bar, she spotted Kyle and Max. “HEY!” she called out to them.

When Kyle saw her closer he had to admit she looked gorgeous, and when she made her way over to them, he made room for her to sit next to him, though he knew that could be dangerous. He short skirt and barely there top were the stuff wet dreams were made of.

“Having fun?” Max asked.

“Yeah, but I’m kinda tired.” Maria said. “Not used to this kind of workout.” She laughed, but it was true. She was still not up to full capacity yet.

“You ok, you want to go home?” Kyle asked, worried.

Maria laughed lightly, “No, I’m fine, but I think I’ll sit here with you guys for a while. Isabel and Tess don’t seem to EVER tire out.”

“Yeah, those two are something else,” Max laughed.

It wasn’t long before a breathless Isabel and Tess made their way over to the table. “So are you having fun?” Isabel ask Maria.

“Yeah,” Maria said. Though she was having much more fun at the table with Kyle and Max than she was on the dance floor. “You?”

“A blast,” Tess answered, “But we are getting tired.”

“Me, too, wanna go back to the house?” Isabel asked the group. They all nodded in agreement, paid the bill and made their way back to the Evan’s house.

**********

That night, Kyle lay down on the floor in Max’s room and thought about Maria. He couldn’t help it. She was beautiful, both inside and out. All she had been through, she should be bitter and mean, but she wasn’t. She was so full of life; the life that he remembered so well when they were friends before. She was damaged, but she was mending herself. He respected that.

But he couldn’t help but find his feelings for her a little disconcerting. He couldn’t be forming a crush again. It was just hormones. He cared about her, and she was hot, and he hadn’t even kissed a girl in…well a long time.

That’s what it had to be. And the last thing he needed to do was fuck up their budding friendship with stupid sexual tension.

That didn’t mean he couldn’t think about her, just meant it had to be in his dreams, where he could relieve the tension in the morning and then go about his day. That was it. It wasn’t anything more than hormones, and he could control his. He knew it.

TBC…

[gnrkrystle]

Chapter 9

“So, I was thinking,” Maria started to say at dinner a week later. “Mrs. Jacobs told me about a volunteer opportunity. Apparently, she is trying to get a program going at the children’s center, downtown. It’s for troubled kids between the aged of 4 and 18.”

“Wow, that’s sounds like a really good idea. What is the volunteer position?” Jim asked.

“She asked me if I would be interested in working with the kids from 4-7.” Maria said, a huge smile spreading across her face. “I’m actually really excited about it. I feel like it’s a way for me to give back.” She had been feeling guilty about the opportunities that had fallen into her lap all of a sudden for a while, and she really did love children.

“I think that would be great.” Jim said.

“When do they want you to work?” Kyle asked, figuring he would be her ride, not that he minded in the least.

“Monday through Friday from 3:30-6:00, and Saturday from 8:00-noon.” Maria said. “But I plan to take the bus from school, so you don’t have to worry about taking me.” She quickly added.

“Maria, I can take you,” Kyle said. He actually wanted to take her. “But Wednesdays I have practice and starting this week, Fridays I have the football games.” Kyle said.

“Well, thank you, Kyle, but I can’t ask you to take me.” Maria said. Kyle decided to let it go, but he really did want to take her. Anytime alone with Maria was more fun than he had had in all of high school.

“So, speaking of the games. I have yet to go to one,” Maria said with a smile. “Guess I’ll be learning all about the great sport of football this year.” She laughed. She didn’t know much about sports. She wasn’t against them, just hadn’t been around them enough to know anything about them.

Jim and Kyle perked up immediately. “Well, you know, there is a pre-season game on tonight.” Jim said.

“Yeah, we could watch it with you, and tell you how the game is played,” Kyle said, more excitedly than he probably should have been, but the truth was, if he could be watching football and hanging out with Maria, it would pretty much be a killer night.

“Wow, that sounds fun. Who’s playing?” Maria asked.

“The Indianapolis Colts, and The New England Patriots.” Jim answered before Kyle could get the words out.

“And who do we want to win?” Maria asked.

“The Colts BABY!” Kyle said, nearly shrieking. Maria laughed loudly, as she picked up everyone’s dishes to put in the sink.

“I have a feeling I’ve gotten in way over my head.” She said.

**********

Maria giggled loudly as she watched Jim and Kyle do their victory dance at the end of the game Colts won 21 to 7. “Oh yeah!” Kyle yelled. “That’s how it’s done.!”

Jim flopped back down on his lazy-boy and Kyle sat back down next to Maria. “So, what did you think?” Kyle asked her.

“I loved it!” she admitted honestly. “I mean, there is so much strategy. It’s a really smart game.” She said, surprised that she had enjoyed the game so much. “So, are the Colts your team, or just for the pre-season.”

“Yep, Payton Manning is awesome. That offense is the best in the NFL.” Jim answered.

“Well, I think I get the game. I understand the rules and everything, but I have a question.” Maria said, “What happens when the quarterback is passing from inside their own endzone and he gets sacked?” She didn’t see it happen, but there was a close call once and she wondered if the same rules applied to any touch down.

Kyle grinned from ear to ear. He was so proud. “Well, the defending team gets 2 points, then possession of the ball returns to the defending team.” He answered. Maria nodded listening intently.

“Well, cool.” She said. “So, I’m excited to see your games now. What position are you?”

“My boy’s a running back,” Jim, the proud father answered.

“Wow, so you score the touchdowns. That’s really cool, Kyle.” Maria said, smiling at him. Kyle blushed under her gaze.

“Well, you know I try,” he said. He meant for it to come out sarcastic, but all he sounded was lame. Luckily his dad and Maria didn’t seem to notice.

“Ok, well I’m going to head out. I’ve got an errand to run. Don’t stay up too late. You’ve got school tomorrow,” Jim said, as he got off his chair.

“An errand? Dad, it’s 10:00.” Kyle laughed.

Jim didn’t say anything as he was already halfway out the door. “That was weird,” Maria laughed, but shrugged, not thinking much of it.

“You have any homework?” Kyle asked.

“Nope, I’m all done. You?” Maria replied.

“Nope,” Kyle said.

“Wanna watch a movie with me in my room?” Maria asked.

“Sure,” Kyle said, trying to control his voice, as the excitement was building inside of him. He felt like a school girl, and it was a little disconcerting.

They went upstairs and Kyle changed into his sleep ware while Maria did the same. When he was done, he knocked lightly on her door. “Come in,” she called, and he entered her room, shutting the bathroom door behind him.

She had on a pair of super short shorts and a tank top, and Kyle cursed to himself in his head. Of all the things she could be wearing. His boxers and Tee-shirt were not going to do much to hide the effect she was having on him, but he would just have to try. “So, what movie do you want to watch!” Maria nearly yelled, as she was trying to get his attention for a few minutes.

“Oh, ummm I don’t care, whatever,” Kyle answered.

“OK,” Maria said picking out a DVD. Disturbing Behavior. And got into bed and under the covers. “Common,” she motioned for Kyle to join her. Slowly, he got into her bed as well, and with her urging under the covers. Maria flipped off the light and laid her head on Kyle’s chest.

He had to control his heartbeat, knowing that the body didn’t lie, and if he wasn’t careful it would beat out of his chest. As nervous as he was, he couldn’t help but want to revel in this feeling. She was so close to him, and smelled so good, that he didn’t want her to move ever.

Meanwhile, Maria didn’t know what came over her. It just seemed so natural to lay her head on his chest, like they were…what? She didn’t know why she did it, but as he wrapped his arm around her and ran his fingers through her hair, she couldn’t exactly move.

It wasn’t like she WANTED to movie. He was comfortable, or at least that was what she was telling herself. Admitting that she was attracted to him was something she was unwilling to do at the moment. It isn’t like Kyle would even give her a second look. He may have had a crush on her in Jr. High, but things had changed quite a bit since then. Now, she was like a sister to him.

*********

The next morning, Maria noticed that not only was the TV still on, but there was another person in her bed. Kyle was still in her bed from the night before. She smiled slightly before she could stop herself and then nudged him lightly. His arm was flung over her, and she couldn’t move. “Kyle,” she called lightly and he finally began to wake up.

She laughed out-loud at the look on his face as he noticed that he was not in his own bed, but rather in hers. “Oh my god! I must have fallen asleep in her,” he said, shooting up in the bed.

“It’s ok, Kyle.” Maria said with a laugh. “Just go get ready. We’ve got to leave in 20 minutes.” She said getting out of bed and picking out her clothes. “I get the shower first.” She called as he moved through the bathroom. He cringed as his morning erection jumped at the thought of Maria in the shower. Down boy!

When they came down the stairs in record time, Jim was sitting at the breakfast table. “Sorry, we slept in this morning.” Maria said.

“It’s ok. But wait,” Jim said as they began to walk toward the door. “I’ve got a surprise for you, Maria.”

“Oh wow,” she said, wondering what it was.

“Common,” Jim motioned toward the door, a huge grin on his face. They followed him outside, and Maria nearly fainted as she saw a new car sitting in the driveway with a huge ribbon on it. “It’s for you,” Jim said, pointing to the car.

“Oh my God, Jim!” Maria cried out, nearly speechless. “You shouldn’t have.” She said, tears coming to her eyes. Other than Jim and Brody helping her get out of her mother’s house, no one had ever done something like this for her.

“It’s all yours. You are going to need a car, as busy as you are getting,” Jim said handing her the keys. He’d gotten her a Mustang too, just like Kyle’s only hers was silver.

Kyle was glad that Maria got a car, because she deserved it, but he was a little worried that she wouldn’t need him anymore, and they would drift apart. He didn’t want that, but then again, this was a small town and they had the same friends, so it wasn’t like she was gone for good. “Congrats, Maria.” He said.

“Ok, now get to school,” Jim said, still smiling. Maria pulled him into a tight hug and kissed his cheek before getting into her new car and following Kyle to school.

TBC…

[gnrkrystle]

Chapter 10

The next week Maria started volunteering at the Children’s Center. She loved it there. The kids were all really positive even though they came from troubled families. She was so glad she decided to do the volunteer job, because for the first time in a very long time she felt like she was apart of something worthwhile. She felt like she was becoming whole again.

She still worked with Brody, but she only came in every other day after her volunteer job. She knew Brody wouldn’t trust anyone else to work for him, so she felt she needed to help him out, but her priority now was with the children.

The extra work also helped her get back into the swing of things at school, and before she knew it, it was Friday, and the first football game of the season. Maria had just gotten off work and being that the last kid was picked up a little late, she had to go straight to the school.

When she got there, she looked around and finally found Michael, sitting next to Liz, and not looking that happy about it. She smiled and made her way over to them. “HEY, Maria!” Michael said, standing up and hugging her.

“Hey, Maria,” Liz said politely scooting down so that she and Michael could sit next to each other.

“Hello,” Maria said with a smile.

“So, did I miss anything?” Maria asked.

“Just kick-off, they are getting ready to start.” Michael said.

The game was genuinely fun. Kyle scored 2 touchdowns and the Comets won, which was good. Michael was surprisingly animated during the game. Maria had just figured he could care less about school spirit. Max didn’t play, he was second string quarterback, but Maria had a feeling he wasn’t too upset about it.

Isabel and Tess were both cheerleaders and Maria and Michael couldn’t help but laugh at their fake enthusiasm. It caused Maria to ask, “I completely forgot, how was the date with Isabel?”

Michael blushed slightly, “Good.” He said, not giving up anything more.

“Oh common!” Maria said, “Is there going to be another date?” she asked.

“Well…I think it’s possible,” he said smiling. Maria realized he wasn’t going to get much out of Michael, so Isabel would have to spill later.

She, Michael, and Liz made their way down the bleachers and toward the cheerleaders. Isabel and Tess greeted them immediately. “So, when do the guy usually leave the locker room?” Maria asked.

“Well,” Tess said, “On a night like tonight, where it’s the first game and they won, they should be out soon. If they lose, couch reams their ass for a good 30 minutes before they can change.” She laughed.

**********

Maria and Kyle decided to drop her car off at the house before going to Isabel and Max’s house that night. On their way to the Evans’ Maria turned to Kyle and said, “That was a good game tonight.”

“Thank you,” Kyle said almost blushing.

“So, what do you guys usually do after the game?” Maria asked.

“Just hang out. Eat some food, watch a movie.” Kyle said, “I’m too tired for much else.”

“Does Max ever get to play?” Maria asked.

Kyle chuckled at that, “No.” he said, “And I don’t think he even wants to. He doesn’t like having all that pressure on him.”

“So, why not quit?” Maria asked.

“His dad would shit a brick.” Kyle answered simply.

They were at the house at that point and made their way to the door. Isabel opened the door and ushered them inside. “Liz is here tonight she whispered in warning.” Maria still wasn’t sure why Liz being around was such a big deal, but Isabel, Michael, Kyle, and Tess seemed to be a little ill at ease whenever she was around.

They went into the living room where everyone was already diving into fresh pizzas. Maria was starving and joined right in, while Kyle motioned for Max to come talk to him. They walked into the kitchen together.

“What’s up?” Max asked.

Kyle himmed and hawed around before practically whispering, “Do you…do you think it’s weird if I have a…reaction to Maria?” he asked.

Max tried hard to keep the smirk off his face, “What kind of reaction?” he asked, knowing perfectly well that Kyle was attracted to Maria.

Kyle sighed, “You know…” he said.

“OH!” Max said, “Well, I don’t think it’s a problem. Does Maria know?”

“NO!” Kyle said, as if that were obvious.

“Do you think she has a reaction to you?” Max said, barely able to keep himself from laughing.

“Of course not, Max.” Kyle said, throwing up his hands, “You know what, just forget it!” he said walking away, but Max grabbed his arm and pulled him back.

“I’m sorry, Kyle.” He said, sobering up, “Look, she’s a girl. A very attractive girl. You are a guy. A guy who shares a house with her, and used to like her…it’s natural. Don’t worry about it.” Max said.

“Ok,” Kyle said, nodding. They headed back into the living room, and ate with everyone else.

**********

After the movie, Maria, Liz, Isabel and Tess went up to Isabel’s room, as per usual. Liz seemed a little out of place. She didn’t say much, except the occasional comment here or there. Maria was beginning to understand why no one was that fond of her. She was very aloof. No matter how hard they tired, she just didn’t seem interested in hanging out. Maria didn’t even know why she was there.

But she had bigger things on her mind. “So, Isabel. Spill about the date with Michael,” she said, a wicked grin crossing her face.

“I was thinking the very same thing,” Tess said, looking at Maria conspiratorially. Liz didn’t seem to care.

Isabel rolled her eyes and blushed at the same time. “It was good.” She said.

‘Oh come on!” Tess said, “You know you have to tell us more than that.”

Isabel looked at Liz for a second and then shrugged. Who cared if Liz heard too. “Ok, well, he took me to dinner at Senor Chows, then we went out to the desert and talk.” Isabel said, “Well, we did a little more than talk, but we DID talk a lot too.”

“Awww!” Maria said, fully away of just how girly she sounded at the moment. “So, what other stuff did you do?’ she asked.

Isabel giggled like a school girl, something she never really did, and said, “Just made out. I think Michael wants to take things slow.” She said, sounding a little disappointed, but she understood. Michael didn’t’ trust people easily. “But we have a date for this weekend.” She said, excitedly.

“That’s awesome, Izzy,” Tess said.

“Yeah!” Maria agreed, “I hope things work out.”

Liz just nodded and smiled. Maria could tell she didn’t care much and didn’t really know what to say.

“Wonder if the guys are talking about this very thing,” Tess said aloud.


In Max’s room…

“So, how about that Colts game?” Max asked, knowing Kyle was more than pleased about it.

“I know, right!” Kyle said. “Maria watched it with me and my dad, and we basically taught her the rules of the game. She didn’t even know what a down was,” he said, laughing a little too loudly at something that wasn’t that funny.

Michael and Max shared a look but let it go, “So, did she like it?”

“Yeah,” Kyle said, smiling. “She really did.”

“Well, that’s good. Maybe tomorrow we can test her ability at Madden 2002. Isabel, Liz, and Tess suck at it.” Max said.

Kyle swallowed hard. The thought of Maria kicking their asses at a football video game actually turned him on. God, he needed help.

*********

The next morning Michael made everyone breakfast. “Wow, Michael, you’re quite the culinary artist,” Maria said, having never had one of his delicious omelets.

“Well, thank you,” he said with a smile.

After breakfast Liz left because she had Biology club, and the rest of the gang headed into the living room. “So, Maria, care to take us on in from Madden 2002?” Max asked, sitting on the couch and untangling the controllers.

“Sure,” she said.

“Common, Max. Just because you love the game doesn’t mean Maria will,” Isabel said, rolling her eyes.

“No. I’d like to play,” Maria said taking the controller from Max.

“Ok, I play winner,” Kyle said.

Max and Maria picked their teams and Maria went with the Colts because she knew the team better and Max picked The Broncos. “Ok, now just tell me what to do,” Maria said, having never played a video game in her life.

Max and Kyle explained the controls to her and then they started playing. “I think I’m going to start Addai,” she said, “they didn’t play him enough last weekend.”

The room all stared at her. Isabel and Tess didn’t know what she was talking about and Max, Michael, and Kyle were proud. Kyle nearly kissed her at that moment. Good thing Max was sitting between them.

Then they started the game, and Maria kicked Max’s ass. He was by no means the best player, as Kyle usually kicked his ass, but this was Maria’s first time playing and she really beat him, taking no mercy.

The girls got into the game too, now that one of their own was not only interesting but really good at the game. Watching Maria play the game seems much more exciting than watching the guys.

“You sure you want to play me?” Maria said, still rubbing in her win.

“Oh yeah,” Kyle said as Max got up and he moved in next to Maria.

“I’ll even let you have the Colts this time,” Maria said with a laugh. She decided on the Ravens. She didn’t know anything about them, but she was feeling pretty confident.

***********

“WOOOHOOO!” Maria stood up and shouted as she just barely beat Kyle’s Colts! (blasphemy I know).

“Oh My God, Maria!” Isabel said. She’d never seen anyone beat Kyle. And while the game was close, Maria still won.

Kyle smiled at Maria before he could help himself. Hey, she won fair and square, though he had to admit he was a little distracted during the game. With her grunting at her controller and biting her bottom lip in concentration he had to make sure he didn’t pull that very controller out of her hand and leap onto her mid-game.

“Whew, That was intense?” Tess said, looking at her watch. “It’s already 1:00!”

“Oh shit,” Maria said, ‘I’ve got to get to the center!”

‘I’ll drive you,” Kyle said.

“Thank you, Kyle. Let me go get dressed.” Maria said, already running upstairs. She was running late. She had to be there by 1:30 to get ready for the special festival they were having.

Soon she was back down the stairs with her bag in hand. “Ok, guys, I’ll see you later,” he said.

“Good game,” Kyle said with a smirk when they got in the car.

“Beginner’s luck,” Maria said, grinning back at him.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah,” Kyle said, turning hid eyes back to the road.

When he dropped her off, Maria breathed a sigh of relief. What was wrong with her? Something clicked when they were playing the game earlier, she didn’t know what it was, but looking at Kyle, his face fixed in concentration had made her a little hot under the collar.

She shook the thoughts from her head, walking into the Children’s Center. Better to just forget about it. It was just a fluke, besides Kyle was so very out of her league.

***********

That night, the gang came over to Kyle and Maria’s house. Maria was tired from the festival that day, but she hung out with her friends anyway.

She plopped down on the couch in between Tess and Kyle. “So how was the thing with the kids?” Isabel asked.

“Good!” Maria said. The kids had a really good time. “We want to do one for Christmas, but we’ve got to find some more volunteers.” She mentioned.

Isabel immediately perked up and Max sighed heavily. His sister had a tendency to go a little nuts at the holidays. “We’ll volunteer!” she said, indicating the group.

‘Oh, that’s not that I meant,” Maria said with a laugh.

“No, we’d love to,” Tess said looking around the room.

“Yeah, I mean if you need help, I’ll help,” Max said.

Michael didn’t want to, but he was pretty sure that Isabel was going to make him anyway, and since that night they had decided to see each other exclusively (or go steady as stupid as that sounded) he knew he would be doing what she said for quite a while.

“I’d love to help,” Kyle found himself saying, though the only reason he could think of was to be closer to Maria, even though he knew that wasn’t going to help his little or rather big problem.

“Wow, thank you guys,” Maria said, smiling excitedly. Her friends really were great, past be damned.

She yawned loudly, unable to control it. Her whole body was tired, but she didn’t want to go upstairs. Kyle found himself putting his arm around her shoulder and she moved into him without even thing, resting her head on his chest.

None of the group seemed to notice either as Max started the movie and turned off the light.

Maria didn’t last 10 minutes into the movie before she fell asleep. She was tired and Kyle was comfortable, especially the way he always ran his fingers through her hair, and she was out like a light.

The next thing she knew, she was being lifted into someone’s arms. Her eyes fluttered open and she saw Kyle carrying her upstairs. She was only half awake but managed to ask, “Where’d everyone go?”

“Why left about 20 minutes ago. You fell asleep,” Kyle said.

Maria just nodded as Kyle laid her in her bed. “Stay with me,” she asked snuggling into her sheets. She was already almost asleep again, and as much as Kyle knew it was a bad idea, he found himself kicking off his shoes and jeans and moving into the bed next to her.

She wrapped her body around his and fell asleep immediately. Kyle’s trip to slumber was not quite so quick. But finally he got his breathing under control and fell asleep.

TBC…