Restoring Antar City (AU M/L Adult) Complete

[maya]

Part 11

Alex, Michael, Maria, Kyle and Mrs. Evans all sat at the kitchen table listening to Alex’s story about how he escaped Kivar’s wrath.

“Half way to Cordova the carriage stopped. The guards forced us out of the carriage and had us stand with our arms against the carriage. They had rifles. My father punched one and they hit him over the head with the rifle. He screamed at me to run and I did. They fired after me but missed. I jumped into the river to escape, just as I did I saw them shoot father. There was nothing I could do.” Alex buried his face in his hands. “I let him down.” He sobbed.

“Alex, it wasn’t your fault. You did all you could. Your father wanted you to escape, to save Antar.” Maria responded putting her hand on Alex’s shoulder.

“It took almost a month for me to get to Cordova by foot. I had to spend a lot of time hiding, the woods were full of Kivar’s men. Once I arrived I started to work on farms for food and a place to sleep.”

“Oh your highness, I am so sorry.” Mrs. Evans said, embarrassed that the king of Antar was doing work on her farm, sleeping in the servants quarters. “I can’t believe we let you work on the farm, if only we had known, we would have helped you.”

“Mrs. Evans you did help me. You gave me sanctuary, exactly what I needed. I wanted to wait until things blew over, and Kivar started searching for me in another area of the country. I needed time to formulate a plan. I have heard that Liz married Kivar and about all the evil things he is doing with his new power. I want to take back the throne but am worried about Liz”s safety.”

“Yes, Kivar has himself in a good place. If Liz tries to escape he can tell her your alive and threaten to harm you. He also knows that you won’t take back the throne if it will risk Liz’s safety. He is a smart man, I’ll give him that.” Michael said.

“Well that smart man doesn’t know where Alex is and we do.” Maria said. “That puts us one point ahead.”

They continued talking and catching up, Maria explained what Kivar was keeping she and Liz under house arrest and that Michael and Max were helping them out.

“It was destiny Maria, that I should stumble onto the farm that Liz’s security guard is from.”

“How is she, Liz I mean?”Hhe asked not wanting to hear the answer. After hearing his sister had married that tyrant he had worried about her night and day.

“It was hard for her when she lost you and her father. She feels to blame, she didn’t know when she married Kivar, she thought she was doing the right thing” Maria explained.

“I know Maria. Poor Lizzie, carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders… Is he…is he hurting her?” He asked.

The look on Michael’s face gave it all away. Max had told him all about the rape.

“She’s ok Alex. Max is protecting her.” Maria replied. What else could she say? She didn’t want to upset Alex more than he already was.

It was at this time that Tessa crept back into the Evans house to see what she could find out. She pushed the swinging door open in the kitchen just enough to see that Alex was talking to the rest of the gang. Darn she thought. She had been hoping to keep Alex and Maria from recognizing each other. Oh well, it didn’t really matter. Kivar would still be interested in the information. She didn’t really plan to tell him, but she could threaten to as blackmail to get exactly what she wanted. She closed the door and listened to the rest of the conversation.

“So what is the plan?” Michael asked.

“Well I am coming back to Antar city with your tomorrow, of course.” Alex replied.

“Alex, it’s not that simple. If you arrive in the city and try to take back the throne Kivar will kill you.”

“Well what do you suggest?”

“You come back, we sneak you in and you stay in our quarters until we put a plan in place for you to overthrow Kivar.”

“Sounds like a plan. Well I need to get some sleep.” He said getting up and hugging Maria once more. Tomorrow was going to be a big day.

“Good night.” She said.

Tesssa hid in the living room when Alex opened the door to go to his bedroom. Michael and Maria walked out back to the stables hand in hand to talk. Tessa quietly followed them and hid in one of the nearby stalls. So far she had heard nothing she didn’t already know but she knew there was something Max had left out of his letter.

Michael put his arms around Maria and held her close. It was nice to have a few minutes alone with her.

“Sorry. I was hoping we would get to spend some romantic time together on this trip.” He said gently kissing her softly.

“I know security boy. I was to but we have lots of time for that. I mean, we found Alex. He can take back the throne. Liz will have her life back. She will be free to be with Max.” Maria said dreamily. “Everything is going to work out.”

Free to be with Max? What did she mean, Tessa thought to herself?

“Maria, how can you be so naïve? The battle has just begun. If Kivar finds out, he will have him killed before Antar even knows he is alive” Maria was jumping ahead of herself once again, although he had to admit Kivar’s men would never think to look for Alex in the palace. “And as for Max and Liz, Max is still engaged to Tessa, remember, the blonde woman you met earlier?”

“Don’t remind me.” Maria said rolling her eyes and making gagging sounds, not knowing Tessa was listening and fighting the urge to strangle her. “She isn’t right for Max, Michael and besides he is in love with Liz.”

“You didn’t give her the letter did you?” She asked him.

“Yes” He sighed.

“Well did you read it first?” She asked him.

“No”

“Oh Michael sometimes I just want to ring your neck.” She creamed. “Now we don’t know what he said.”

“Knowing Maxwell it was probably a love letter reaffirming his promises.”

That’s exactly what I will say it was Tessa thought, making a mental note to burn the letter when she got home. So that’s the big secret, Max is in love with the Queen of Antar. Suddenly the ideas that had been swarming around in her head the last 24 hours took the shape of a plan, a plan that would allow her to revenge max without him knowing it, still end up married to him and be richer than she could have ever dreamed. Once she saw Maria and Michael leave the barn she went quietly into the back of the barn to find the bottle she needed.


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Kivar was in a bitter mood when he had entered Liz’s room. The latest word from his army was that Alex had still not been found. How could a scrawny, weekly boy like Alex escape his men for so long? Then seeing Max in Liz’s arms made his blood boil. He wasn’t sure why. He didn’t love her, he didn”t love anyone but he didn’t even like her. She was just a means to an end for him. He didn’t want her like he wanted Vilandra but she was his all the same. He owned her. He grabbed her arms and pulled her body against his, crashing his lips into hers powerfully.

Liz felt the bile rise in her throat as she pushed him away wiping her mouth with her hand. Enduring his hands on her these last few months had been a nightmare but now that she had kissed Max it was even worse. Max was the only one she ever wanted to touch her and she would die before she would sleep with Kivar again.

“You bitch.” Kivar screamed raising his hand and slapping her across the face, his ring catching on the corner of her lip, breaking it open. He would not put up with her defiance. “You are my wife and you will do what I say.”

“Why don’t you go sleep with Valiandra?” She asked. “I thought she was what you wanted?”

“She is menstruating right now so I can’t touch her for the next few days” He said as he put his arm around her waist pulling her close to him again. Normally he would just wait for the few days for Vilandra but he needed to let out his frustration over not having found Alex and sex was the best way for him to feel in control again. The servants he sometimes laid with had gone to town on errands so he had wandered up to Liz’s room. Her not wanting to be with him, only made him want her even more.

“Kivar, I am pregnant. The doctor said I was not have sexual relations. You know that. Do you really want me to lose this baby?” She asked playing the heir card. Kivar needed an heir and she knew he would do nothing to jeopardize it.

“Damn you woman..” He screamed pulling away from her. She was right, he couldn’t harm his heir. Once she had given birth, he would have her one last time as roughly as he wanted and then he’d kill her and he would enjoy it. The thought of it brought a smile to his lips.

“Since Maria is away, I will send Vilandra up to clean up your lip” He said with what appeared as concern but Liz knew better. She couldn’t believe she hadn’t seen through him when he had been courting her the year before. He was only concerned he had hurt his heir and nothing more.

“Great.” She said rolling her eyes as Kivar walked out of her bedroom. As if she was interested in seeing Vilandra. thing from Max just as he had from her.

[maya]

Part 12

Once Kivar had left Max opened the door and rushed towards her seeing her bloody lip. What had Kivar done to her?

“Liz?” he asked her questionably and she shook her head.

“I am fine Max. He just hit me that’s all, but you have to leave now.” She said motioning towards the door.

“Why?” He asked her confusion etched in his face. Didn’t she understand that knowing she was in there with Kivar had been eating him alive?

“Vilandra is on her way up to look after my injury. I don’t want her to see us in here together.” She said understanding his frustration but fearing for both of their safety if Vilandra were to find out and tell Kivar.

“OK but once she leaves, I will be back Liz. It’s killing me to not be able to hold you right now.” He said closing the door behind him.


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Vilandra came up to Liz’s room with some warm water and a wash cloth. She nodded at Max who opened the door and let her in. Liz sat in her bed reading a magazine and she didn’t even acknowledge her. Not that Vilandra could blame her. Why would Liz like her? She was sleeping with her husband after all and she knew she wanted to be the next Queen.

Liz finally looked up to see Vilandra standing there and said “Let’s just get this over with shall we.” Liz said and Vilandra preceded to sit on the edge of Liz’s bed. Liz scooted over so that Vilandra could clean her wound.

“What did you do to anger Kivar?” Vilandra asked her as she placed the warm water on Liz”s cut watching Liz wince silently.

“Nothing at all.” Liz said rolling her eyes.

“Try not to get him worked up.” Vilandra said “It’s not good for the baby” she felt bad for Liz. Her own face had seen Kivars hand a few times.

Liz gave her a quizzical look. Usually Vilandra was extremely rude to her but today she heard compassion in her voice and she wondered what had changed. “Why do you care anyway?” Liz asked her not expecting to receive an honest answer.

“We may not be great friends but you have never been cruel to me Liz. That’s why I have to tell you the truth. When I started working with Kivar he assured me no one would get hurt. I overheard him talking to Patrick this morning Liz. Once the baby is born he plans to kill you.” She stated honestly suprising Liz.

“Thanks for telling me.” Liz said in surprise and Vilandra offered her a weak smile. “I mean I figured that was what he had planned.”

Vilandra squirmed awkwardly. When she first met up with Kivar she did want power, the throne but she didn’t want anyone to die in the process. He had assured her no one would be hurt but now she realized that she was just a pawn in his plan like everyone else and that he might even double cross her one day.

Once Vilandra finished cleaning Liz’s wound she helped her get into her nightgown as well and they continued talking.

“Why are you with him?” Liz asked as Vilandra braided her hair..

“I told you. I want to be a Queen” She replied honestly.

“Being a Queen isn’t so great.” She replied. “You want it, take it.” She said to her

“I want the money and power.” She clarified. That is what being a queen would bring her.

“What about Love, Vilandra, don’t you want love? Why has life hardened you so much?”

“Love. You want to know about Love? A father who beat me, a mother who died when I was five, a sister who tried to kill me out of jealousy. Don’t talk to me about Love. I would have given anything, anything to have it, to have a father and brother who loved me like yours did, a world that adored me like yours did, a man who loves me like he loves you.” She said looking away.

“Why do you think I hate you so much?” She continued

“Kivar? He doesn’t love me?” Liz said surprised. Vilandra must have known that.

“Not Kivar. Max.” She clarified

“I don’t know what your talking about? “ Liz said defensively. Vilandra knew? This was not good. Then she realized what she was saying. Did Vilandra have feelings for Max? “You love Max?” Liz asked her heart beating rapidly.

“No, I don’t love max.” Vilandra laughed. No wonder Liz had looked like she was going to pounce on her “ I don’t love Max but I want someone to love me the way he loves you. That is not something I can ever hope for Liz. . I can’t even hope for love, so money and power, those are things I can make happen, things that are within my reach.”

Liz smiled at Vilandra in understanding. All the hatred she had for her melted and she pulled her into her arms. Vilandra sobbed for the first time in years feeling she had really been heard.

“I am so sorry Liz for trying to hurt you, I just feel so alone.” Vilandra’s voice was muffled as she sobbed.

“Your not alone.” She assured her.

“Once I was in love and he felt the same way. It was Alex.”

“Alex?” Liz asked and then she smiled. “Its ok” she said as she continued to hold her while she sobbed. Could she trust her she wondered? She would have to talk to Max about it, but if Alex had loved her then maybe just maybe she could.

Tears began to stream down Liz’s face as well letting out the stress she had bottled up over the last year of her life. Her tears were partly happy ones knowing that Alex had loved someone, and partly sad not knowing if Alex would survive to reunite with his love once again.

“Look at us.” Vilandra laughed “We are both a mess” Both girls laughed and they spent the rest of the night talking and comforting each other.


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Cordova

Once Tessa had what she needed from the barn she waited until she was sure everyone was asleep and then tip toed into Mr. Evans room. She was happy to see that he was in a deep sleep which only made what she was about to do easier.

“Sorry Mr. Evans.” She whispered as she shot the syringe into his arm. “That’s what you get for having a son that betrayed me”.

Mr. Evans eyes opened for a brief second as the drug made its way into his system, his eyes locking with hers in recognition and then snapped shut again. If this was enough drug to kill a horse it would surely kill an already sick man. She waited a few minutes and checked his pulse, confirming he was indeed dead. Once again a smile crossed her lips, in sweet satisfaction, this was the first time she had killed and it hadn’t been difficult at all. In fact it had been fun.

She tiptoed out of the room as quietly as she had entered it and made her way back to her house, knowing that her plan had been put into motion and that although he would never know she had taken some

[maya]

Part 13



The next morning Tessa arrived at the Evans house with blueberry muffins like she did every morning. She walked into the kitchen to find the group sitting around the kitchen table with somber faces.

“Oh Tessa.” Kyle said when he saw her walk in and immediately got up from the table and wrapped his arms around her sobbing into her shoulder.

“What happened?” She asked with a questioning look on her face while inwardly commending herself for her incredible performance.

“Dad is dead.” Kyle said as he walked over to his mother and pulled her into a hug. “He died in his sleep. When mother went to give him his medication this morning she realized it.”

“But the medication?” She asked. “I thought it was working?”

“It must have come too late.” Mrs. Evans said. “Max will be devastated; he took that job at the palace to save his father. I know he did all he could but knowing Max as I do, he will blame himself.” She said sadly.

“So I guess Max will come home now?” she asked Michael.

Michael looked at her quizzically. What was she talking about? Max wouldn’t be coming home, there was no reason for it now and he had work to do at the palace.

Maria glared at Tessa. Mr. Evans had just died and she was already worried about herself. She was tactless.

“Tessa, there are things going on that you don’t know about. Max is needed at the palace” Michael said exasperated. He didn’t want to get into this now and they had to get ready to leave. When Kivar had given them permission to come buy the cloth in Cordova he had told them exactly when they were expected back.

“I know Michael. Max told me about it in his letter. He also said that he wanted to see me, he needed my help. I am coming with you to Antar city.” She said, thankful she had burned the letter. She wasn’t technically lying, Max had mentioned the problem at hand in his letter but he had not asked to see her.

“I don’t think that is such a good idea Tessa” Maria said giving her an evil glare. What had Max seen in this woman?

“Michael, his father is dead. I want to be the one to tell him. I should be the one to tell him. After all I am his fiancé.” She said with her hands on her hips. She was not going to take no for an answer.

“Very well Tessa. Go pack your thinks. We will leave in 30 minutes.” He said turning to see Maria glaring at him.

After Tessa had left to pack her things Maria turned to Michael.

“Are you crazy, letting her come?”

“She already knows too much, that Alex is alive, that Kivar is holding Liz against her will. I think it’s better to keep her with us then to leave her here. Besides we don’t even know if she is a threat.”

“Come on Michael, you know she is a threat, look at the way she is acting.” Maria said exasperated.

“She is acting like a woman who wants to see her fiancé and is scared to loose him. That doesn’t mean she is dangerous.”

“That’s exactly why she is dangerous Michael. Whatever happens, she can’t find out about Max and Liz. I have a feeling that is the one thing that will throw her over the edge. I mean have you seen how she acts whenever she mentions Max, she is completely star struck with him and it gives me an eerie feeling”

“I couldn’t agree more.” Michael said pulling her into an embrace and heading out to the carriage.


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Mrs. Evans pulled Alex aside before he got into the carriage.

“Here are your last weeks wages, your highness.” She said passing him an envelope.

“No, please, I want you to use this money to have an autopsy performed on your husband” he said handing the envelope back to her.

“But people of our status don’t generally have autopsies done.” She said to him perplexed.

“I know, but I want you to.” He said and then whispered “and don’t tell anyone about it, except Kyle.”

“Your highness?” She asked wondering what he was keeping from her. Did he suspect foul play?

“Just following my instinct Mam.” He bent down and placed a kiss on her cheek and headed for the carriage



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When Vilandra woke up, she didn’t recognize her surroundings. The sheets were silk, the bed so much more comfortable then her own. She turned her head and saw Liz sleeping beside her and realized she had fallen asleep there last night while they were talking. It had been such an emotional night. She had shared so many of her personal thoughts with Liz and she really hoped it was not a mistake.

“So sorry your highness.” She said getting up quickly.

Liz opened her eyes and smiled. “No problem Vilandra. It was actually nice to have some company, with Maria away I was a bit lonely. Did you sleep ok?” She asked her new friend.

“Yes I did and thank you for listening to me.” She said as she got up from the bed and got ready to leave.

“Anytime Vilandra. I think we started out on the wrong foot.”

“So do I.” Vilandra said laughing.

The door opened and Max’s head poked in. “Oh sorry your highness, just starting my post for the day.” He said when he saw that Vilandra was still there. He had waited forever last night for her to leave so he could spend some time with Liz. Eventually he had given up and had gone to bed.

“Max, it’s ok you can come in, she knows about us.” Liz explained.

“Oh really?” He asked stepping inside the room awkwardly, unsure of what exactly Vilandra knew.

“Come on in Max. I won”t bite” Vilandra added.

“Well, it is time for me to take my leave. Kivar will be leaving this afternoon to attend a meeting in Vorke this afternoon. He won’t be back until tomorrow afternoon.” She said with a smile. “I just thought you might want to know in case you wanted some uninterrupted time.” She said with a wink and then laughed as she saw both Max and Liz blush.

Once Vilandra left Max pulled Liz into his arms and pushed a stray hair behind her ear. He cupped her face in his hands and placed a soft kiss on her lips. Liz pulled him closer and Max deepened the kiss tracing the outside of her lips with his tongue until she groaned granting him access, his tongue plunged into her mouth.

When Max pulled back he groaned at the sight of Liz before him. She was still in her nightgown, it was white and didn’t leave much to the imagination. Her nipples had hardened and were pushing against the light fabric, her hair was in disarray, her lips swollen from their kisses. He wanted to take her right there.

“Liz, I really want to be with you tonight.” He said still panting.

Liz swallowed, her heart still racing. “What about Tessa?” She asked. She didn’t want to be thinking about Tessa at a time like this but knew they had to.

“I know it sounds horrible but I don’t care. It’s you I love Liz. It’s you I want to be with and spend the rest of my life with.” He meant it. He would find away to break it off with Tessa for good.

“I don’t care either. I just want to be with you.” Liz said now feeling quite shy.

“Let’s wait until Kivar leaves.” Max said “We definitely don’t want to be interrupted by him” he laughed

“Good idea I need time to get ready, make myself beautiful anyway.” She said looking at the floor. The idea of being with Max both excited and scared her.

“Your always beautiful” Max said placing a soft kiss on her lips and then pulling away. If he started something again he didn’t know if he would be able to pull away and he really wanted to wait until tonight so he could make it special for Liz.

[maya]

Part 14

The ride was long and stuffy with the four of them crammed into the back of the carriage. It would take close to 24 hours for them to travel back to Antar city. They would arrive tomorrow at around 6 am which would be perfect, there would be less chance of someone noticing the two new passengers, particularly the real King of Antar.

The plan was to move Alex to Max’s room. No one ever went in to check the staff’s quarters. With his long hair, even if he was seen chances were that no one would recognize him.

“Now what about Tessa?” Alex asked. “How are we going to explain her to Kivar?”

“She can stay with Maria or Liz.” Michael said and then he felt Maria’s elbow striking his rib cage. He turned to look at her to see her eyebrows raised and a scowl on her face. She obviously didn’t like that idea too much.

“I have a better idea” Maria replied. “Since we came to Cordova to get cloth for the baby’s room why don’t we say that Tessa is a seamstress we brought back to make a few things.”

Now it was Tessa’s turn to wear a scowl on her face. She did not come into this world to be a seamstress.

“What is the problem? You can sew can’t you Tessa?” Maria asked her mockingly.

“Of course I can sew. What woman cannot?” She growled at Maria sarcastically. She knew Maria was doing this to her on purpose and she wanted to claw her eyes out but she would have to wait until she had what she wanted. She would suck up to her for now, acting like Max’s perfect fiancé, and console herself with the fact that she would have fun getting back at her later on. “In fact, I love to sew and would be honored to make some things for the Queen’s baby.” She said with a once again calm and collected attitude, flashing her perfect smile



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Max stood in the shower letting the warm water fall over his body. He was so excited about tonight. When he had left Liz’s room he had gone outside to pick some wild flowers to make a bouquet for her. He had also stopped in the kitchen and taken a few of the cook’s fresh truffles to give her. He knew these weren’t the ideal gifts and Liz deserved more but that was the best he could do given the fact he couldn’t leave the castle.

He really wanted the night to be special. He was a little nervous. This was after all going to be his first time. He wished it would be the first time for both of them. In a way though it was, it would be the first time she had made love, what she had with Kivar was just sex and in the end couldn’t even be called that, it was rape. He shuddrered at the thought again scolding himself for not being able to save her that night. He wouldn’t push her tonight, he would make sure she was comfortable with everything, would cherish her, love her the way she deserved.



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Liz was also getting ready. She had called Vilandra up to help her. She was really nervous.

“I take it this will be your first time together?” She asked Liz.

“Yes.” Liz smiled and then her face fell.

“What is it Liz?” Vilandra asked

“Oh I just wish that I hadn’t been with Kivar, that I would be losing my virginity to Max tonight” She sighed.

“Well, you never loved Kivar so in away this will be your first time with love involved.” She said hoping to bring the smile back onto her face.

“Well what is it like?” Liz asked blushing. “I mean I have never had an orgasm” she explained much to Vilandra;s surprise.

When she and Kivar had first gotten married and he was still being nice to her she had been excited about her wedding night. She had heard that there was nothing in the world like sex and couldn’t wait to experience it. That night Kivar came into the room, removed his pants and got in bed beside her. He did not take the time to caress her at all, simply lifted her nightgown, entered her quickly and after a few thrusts, he screamed her name and pulled out. With tears streaming down her face he had gotten up and put his pants back on. “That was normal for a first time. It won’t hurt as much next time.” He said as he left to go back to his own room. That was almost a year ago, she had changed so much, she had been so innocent then, not anymore.

“Oh Liz, this is exciting. With Max it will be explosive, passionate, out of this world.” She said squeezing her hand. “I brought you this strawberry scented lotion, it will drive Max wild.” She said handing it to her.

As Liz put the lotion on her arms and legs she smiled to herself. Vilandra was right. This was Max they were talking about and Max would care about her feelings. Tonight would be perfect.

“I want to help you Liz, you Maria, Micheal, Max.” Vilandra said suddenly.

“What about Kivar? Your plans for the throne.” Liz asked her.

“My feelings for Kivar have been changing; finding out he was planning to kill you is a big part of that.” Vilandra wanted the power and prestige but not at the expense of others, not at the expense of Liz who had become her friend and Alex’s sister.

“I keep thinking about Alex. He would have wanted me to help you.” She smiled.

“Vilandra are you sure this is what you w ant? You would be crossing Kivar.” Liz warned her.

“I know and I’ll still have to be with him, or he would be suspicious. I couldn’t get away with it if I wanted to. Once he decides he owns you, you can never escape.” She said sadly.

“The decision is yours Viladra but there is something you should know, that may help you make your decision. Alex is alive.”

“He’s alive?” Vilandra screamed tears streaming down her face.

“He’s alive” Liz repeated. She hadn’t intended to tell Vilandra but she was glad she did. She dreamed Valenti”s men would find Alex and he would come home to her and to Vilandra.



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Cordova

“Kyle, take this money and go into town to arrange for an autopsy for your father.” Mrs. Evans said handing him the envelope Alex had given her.

“Autopsy, but why? Dad dies of heart trouble. We know that.” He said perplexed.

“The king gave me the money and asked that it be performed.” She said

“That’s a weeks wages, there are so many other things we could use that money for.” He argued

“Kyle, are you going to do this or do I have yo go into town myself?” She asked him sternly.

“Well, he couldn’t possibly suspect foul play. He and Michael, Maria and Tessa have been the only ones here and none of them would hurt him, it just doesn’t make any sense.” He argued.

“I know but Kyle, the king must have had his reasons.”

“Mom, I just think that…”

“Kyle.” She said cutting him off

“Ok.” He said walking out the front door and heading into town. None of this made sense to him at all.

[maya]

Part 15

There was a knock at the door. Liz took one last look at her reflection in the mirror and nervously opened the door. Standing on the other side was Max with a grin on his face holding a bouquet of wild flowers and a red box.

“Hi.” She said shyly pushing her hair behind her right ear nervously. He looked incredible in a white button shirt and black jeans.

“Hi beautiful.” He said walking towards her and closing the door behind him. She looked so beautiful he thought in a red silk negligee that went to her ankles with a slit up the right sided revealing her tanned leg.

“These are for you.” He said handing her the flowers and the box of truffles. “I wish I had something more to give you….” He trailed off

“Max, these are perfect.” She sighed as she went into the bathroom to get some water to put the flowers in.

While she was gone Max sat on the edge of the bed nervously. He had fantasized about this moment the entire time he was in the shower, but now that he was here he felt so shy. He shook his head and reminded himself this was not the time to have cold feet. Kivar was away, Michael and Maria would be back soon. This was his chance to make Liz his.

When she came out of the bathroom, Max got up and walked towards her grabbing her hand and pulling her towards him. He slowly leaned in and brushed her lips softly. Liz closed her eyes, enjoying the spark that ignited as soon as his lips had touched hers. She intensified the Kiss, attacking his lips forcefully, she needed him so badly and she wanted him to feel that need.

Max pulled away quickly. She was driving him crazy with her kisses and he needed to make sure this was what she wanted before things got out of control.
“
“Liz, are you sure? You know I would never make you do anything you weren’t ready for.” He said. He knew Kivar wasn’t that kind to her.

“I am ready Max. It’s just I am nervous.” She replied

“I know Kivar was rough with you. I would never hurt you Liz.” He said cupping her face with his hands and staring into her eyes.

“I know you wouldn’t Max. I’m not worried about that. I’m just not very experienced.” She admitted

Max chuckled. “Liz, this will be my first time.”

“But what about Tessa?”

“We were waiting until we got married.”

Liz relaxed. Somehow, knowing that she wasn’t sharing him with Tessa made this much more special.

“Make me yours Max.” She whispered in his ear sending shivers down his spine.

Max took her lips once again, this time with more passion than before running his fingers through her silky hair. Liz ran her fingers through his hair as well tugging his hair to bring him closer to her. He trailed kisses down her neck, Liz threw her head back in ecstasy and when he found her most tender point she moaned in satisfaction. Max’s head was swimming. She tasted incredible and what was that scent she was wearing? Strawberry? He pulled one of the straps of her negligee down revealing her breast. It was so perfect, it fit in the palm of his hand perfectly.

“So beautiful.” He said as he kneaded her rosy nipple between his fingers.

“Max.” She begged and he immediately bent down taking the nipple in his mouth.

Max picked her up and carried her to the bed, his mouth never leaving her nipple. He pulled the other strap down and attacked the other nipple in the same way. The more of her body he explored the harder he became. He prayed he would be able to hold out until he buried himself inside of her.

Liz reached for the top button of Max’s shirt. “I think you’re a little overdressed, don’t you?” She asked smiling coyly.

Max smiled and helped her with the rest of the buttons. Once the shirt was undone he removed it and through it on the floor, leaning on top of her. They began kissing again, exploring the deep recesses of each others mouths. Liz ran her hand across Max’s smooth chest.

Max pulled her negligee down further and Liz lifted her hips slightly so he could pull it down over her legs. That was when he noticed she wasn’t wearing any underwear and groaned. He began to trail kisses down her body, swirling his tongue in her belly button and finally coming to the dark curls at the juncture between her thighs.

He moved down so he was sitting in front of her and parted her legs. She was so beautiful. He ran his finger along her lips, she was so wet and ready for him. She blushed.

“Can I?” He asked desperately wanting to taste her.

She nodded, too enraptured for words. She needed to feel his tongue on her.

The first taste was like heaven; Max began to lap at her gently. Liz moaned his name and pushed his head down causing him to apply more pressure. He began to thrust his tongue in and out of her slit and she started to move her hips. The pressure was building.

“Max.” She screamed needing more.

Max knew what she wanted. He stopped his movement and began to focus solely on her nub circling it quickly with his tongue over and over again.

“Max.” She screamed her whole body shuddering as she went over the edge. He continued to lick until the tremors stopped and then came up to meet her with a kiss.

“I take it that was to your satisfaction.” He asked with a laugh?

“u huh.” She said smiling. Thinking of how right Vilandra had been.

It had been incredible but it wasn’t enough. Liz wanted to feel Max inside of her. She pulled on his belt buckle and Max slid out of his pants quickly, glad to relieve some of the pressure his pants were creating against his erection. She quickly slid his boxers off as well and took him in her hand. Her eyes went wide.

“What ?” He asked

“You are much bigger than Kivar” She said and then laughed.

Max couldn’t help but laugh as well. “I want you so much Liz.” He said, his amber eyes dark with lust.

“I want you to Max. Now, please.” She begged.

He entered her slowly, not wanting to be rough with her like Kivar had been, and started a slow rythm. It was like heaven. He filled her in such a way that for the first time in her life she felt completely whole.

“Faster Max, please.” She begged and he began to thrust in and out, her hips grinding into his at an even pace.

“God, you are so beautiful Liz.” He said running his fingers through her hair.

“Oh god Liz.” He said . He was close but he wanted her there with him.

“Max.” She screamed as she went over the edge. A few seconds later he followed her filling her with his seed, then collapsing on top of her. He didn’t want to leave her yet, he loved the feeling of being inside her but he didn’t want to crush her so he rolled them over onto their sides.

“Are you ok baby?” He asked her resting his forehead against hers. Still panting.

“I’m more than ok Max. That was. Wow. Vilandra was right., She said it would be explosive with you. I just never thought that .wow”

“I’m glad. I mean I know it wasn’t great with Kivar but this was my first time and I really wanted to please you.” He said staring into her chocolate eyes.

“Max, that was my first orgasm. Well my first 2 orgasms” She said blushing “So believe me, you definitely pleased me.” She said watching the smile cross Max’s lips. Men and there pride she thought and laughed to herself.

“I love you Liz.”

“I love you too Max.”

He definitely was willing for round 2 but he knew that Michael and Maria would be back in the morning , and Kivar a few hours later and they needed their sleep. He pulled the sheets up around them and pulled Liz against him as they both fell into a deep, happy sleep, knowing that in this moment things between them had changed forever.



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



It was midnight and the gang in the carriage were trying to get some shut eye but it wasn’t easy given the little room they had. Maria had fallen asleep her head on Michael’s shoulders. They would be in Cordova in 8 hours and Maria couldn’t wait to see Liz and get away from the blonde lizard she’d been traveling with for the last 24 hours.

They had spent many hours filling Alex in on what had happened in the palace this last year. They had told him everything including the fact that Liz was not really pregnant, that it was just a way to buy them more time to overtake Kivar and to keep him away from Liz. They hadn’t wanted Tessa to hear but she was there and they wanted Alex to be prepared. They had left out the feelings Max and Liz had for each other. They would tell Alex when they could get him alone. Besides Michael had reasoned that with Tessa back in the picture there would probably no longer be a Max and Liz. Not much more than a kiss had happened between them anyway, and Max would probably keep his promise to Tessa..

Tessa smiled. She had been let into the Antarian chaos and she now knew everything. Where Alex was and the fact that Liz wasn’t really pregnant, 2 pieces of information she would use to blackmail her way into having Max all to herself and having more money than she could ever need. Of course, she may not need to use it. She closed her eyes, imagining her reunification with Max in just 8 hours. She would tell him about his father, he would cry on her shoulder. Max was such a pansy always wanting to do the honorable thing, he would go ahead with the wedding plans and never glance at Liz again. God, Michael and Maria were stupid if they thought she didn’t know about Max and Liz and even more stupid for not realizing they had opened their big mouths and given them all the ammo she would need to bring them all down. She would have Max Evans and she would have her fortune, nothing and nobody would stand in her way.

[maya]

Part 16

“Max, Max.” Liz screamed bolting up in her sleep, her heart racing, drenched in sweat.

“What, what’s wrong sweetheart?” He asked her sitting up and putting his arms around her.

“I thought, I….oh my God Max are you really here?” She asked feeling very disoriented.

“Of course I am, what’s wrong?” He said wiping her hair out of her eyes and staring at her intensely.

“I had this horrible dream and now I have a feeling of impending doom.” She said looking away.

“It was only a dream.” He said smiling at her and pulling her head back to face him. He kissed her lips softly. “It’s ok now.”

“No it’s not okay. You don’t understand.” She said lying back down in bed. What was she going to do? Every time something bad had happened in her life; she had woken drenched in sweat from a nightmare the night before with this same indescribable feeling. It happened when her mother had died and when her father had died.

“Oh.” She gasped covering her face with her hands. Could Alex have been killed?

“I don’t understand Liz, so please explain it to me.” He said lying back down beside her and pulling her into his arms.

“Max, I know it sounds crazy but I am a bit clairvoyant. I often know when bad things have happened, like when my mother died and my father died. I just have this horrible feeling.” She said her voice turning into a whimper as she closed her eyes willing her tears not to fall.

“Your worried its Alex aren’t you?” He asked her. How he wished her life could be normal, that he could just make all of this go away.

She nodded weakly.

“He is fine Liz and if something bad does happen, I promise we will deal with it together. We are together now, nothing can ever change that. Ok?”

“Ok.” She said and then blushed when she felt the bulge in his boxers pushing against her thigh.

“Sorry, you just look so beautiful; you always have this effect on me.” He smiled.

“I’m sorry.” She said. “This probably wasn’t the way you thought we would wake up together after our first time making love.” She said. They should have had a romantic morning together, instead he had woken to her screaming in fear.

“True.” He said. He was hoping they would wake with round two of their lovemaking.

“But it doesn’t matter. The fact that I am waking up next to you is the only thing that matters.” He said as he began nibbling her lower lip as his hands trailed down to rest on her breasts and he began to kneed her nipples.

“Max, its 7 am, we have to get up, Maria and Michael will be back any minute. We don’t want them to find us like this.” She said jumping out of bed. “Don’t worry, cowboy, we will finish this later, I promise.”

Max turned over and groaned. With Michael and Maria back and Kivar back as well he just knew it was going to be a very frustrating day



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



The carriage pulled up to the castle and the gate lowered allowing them in.

Kivar came out to the carriage to meet them. He opened the door to the carriage to reveal Michael and Maria sitting on one side and a blonde woman he had never seen before on the other with a 3 foot pile of cloth piled beside her.

“Maria?” Kivar asked pointedly “I take it by the amount of cloth you purchased that the trip was a success, but who is this?” He said pointing to Tessa.

“Maria’s heart was beating in her chest and she prayed her voice would not reveal her fear as he spoke. “This Kivar is Cordova’s best seamstress Tessa. I brought her here for a few weeks so that she could do the whole baby’s room, curtains, pillows, blankets, rugs. It is not a problem is it?” She asked him.

Kivar looked at the beautiful blonde with the ruby red lips. She didn’t compare to Vilandras beauty of course but she could come in handy when Vilandra was otherwise occupied.

“No, not a problem at all. See to it she has a room set up in the staffs quarters.”

“Will do.” Maria said as Kivar closed the carriage door and they drove into the castle.

“Man it’s hot in here.” Alex said poking his head through the cloth as Tessa helped him remove some of it from his head. He smiled at Maria and Michael. He had made it into the castle undetected.

Tessa smiled. Kivar was much more handsome than she had heard and from their brief encounter she got the impression that he was attracted to her. Good. Things couldn’t be working out better.


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


Vilandra quickly opened the door to Liz’s room to see Max sitting on the side of the bed.

“Kivar is back and so are Maria and Michael. I’d hurry up if I was you.” She said and quickly closed the door behind her.

Max quickly threw last nights clothes on and made the bed, he hoped Liz would come out of the bathroom soon, he could hear the hair dyer going. He really wanted to talk to her before Maria and Michael arrived.

“Hey.” She said opening the door. She was wearing a red v-neck sweater and beige pants and looked breathtaking.

“Hey beautiful.” He said taking her in his arms. He wanted to make sure she was ok with everything that had happened between them before the others arrived.

“We better not, Max. Maria and Michael will be here any second and...”She trailed off

“You don’t want to tell them?” He said

“Yes, but we still have to be careful, no one else can find out.” She said

“Liz, about last night, are you ok with everything that happened between us?” He asked her.

“Yes Max, it was incredible.” She said sadly

“Then why the sad face?” He asked

“Oh it was just so nice to have the time together, just the two of us you know. Now everything will be different.” She sighed into his chest.

“Well find time to be together. I promise” He reassured her but that horrible feeling came over Liz again that something horrible was going to happen only this time she felt that she might never be with Max again.

Liz opened her mouth to tell Max her fear hoping he could take it away when the door opened and Maria ran in.

“Liz, Liz.” Maria yelled as she ran into the room panting with excitement. She stopped dead in her tracks when she saw that Liz was in Max’s arms. A smile spread across her face for a minute, a feeling of triumph, she knew Max and Liz would get together while she was way but then she remembered who would be coming into the room any second.

“Pull apart, now” She said “I’ll explain later.” It was wise of her to run ahead.

“Mara, what are you talking about?” Liz asked as she stepped back from max and gave Maria a puzzled look.

“Look.” Maria said pointing at the door just at it opened and 3 people walked in.

“Alex!” Liz screamed running towards her brother and jumping into his arms.

“Tessa?” Max asked his eyes wide. This just couldn’t be happening. He turned to look at Maria who just gave him a sympathetic look as Tessa ran forward and threw herself into his arms.

“Oh Max, I missed you so much” she said

[maya]

Part 17

“Oh Alex, you don’t know how happy I am.” Liz said as Alex twirled her around in his arms. She felt every muscle in her body relax as he held her in his arms and she knew he was real.

“When I heard you were alive I prayed that I would see you one day again, if anything had happened to you, I just couldn’t go through losing you again.” That had been her biggest fear, to find out he was alive only to loose him again to one of Kivar”s men.

“Well I am here little sister and I promise to never leave you again.” He said hugging her tightly.

“How did this happen, I mean how did you find Alex?” She asked Maria and Michael.

“It was fate.” Maria explained excitedly. “Alex was working as the farm hand on Max’s father’s farm. Can you believe it?” She asked Liz

“Wow, that is incredible. You have to tell me everything Alex, starting with how you escaped the attempt on your life and where you’ve been this last year.” She said

“We will catch up soon I promise Lizzie bear” He said hugging her again, laughing to himself as he could already see she was in planning mode, wanting to know all of the facts. “We also have to make plans for me to take back the throne. I will stay with Max in his room for now until we find out exactly what we are up against and then we can put our plan in motion.”

Liz smiled at him. She loved it when he called her Lizzie Bear. . She wondered what her earlier feeling of impending doom was about but she quickly shut it out of her mind. Her brother was standing in front of her, he was real. Here earlier feeling must have been one of worry plain and simple, not a warning as she had originally thought. Her instincts had been wrong.

At the mention of Max’s name Liz realized that Max was on the other side of the room, and not beside her. She turned to see him standing by the window with his arms wrapped around a blonde woman.

“Who is that?” She asked Maria. She had seen someone else enter the room earlier but as soon as she had seen Alex she had blocked everything else out.

Liz watched Maria and Michael exchange nervous glances and she wondered what was going on.

“That is Tessa. She came with us from Cordova.” Maria explained hesitantly.
“Max’s fiancé Tessa?” Liz asked in a shaky voice. Now she understood what Maria had meant earlier when she had run in the room and broken up her embrace with Max.

Her heart broke. Why was Tessa here she wondered and what was her reaction to Max’s letter?

Maria was pale. When she had interrupted Max and Liz earlier she had a funny feeling that they had cemented their relationship while she and Michael were in Cordova. She couldn’t have been happier, Liz deserved happiness and Max was just the right person to give it to her. Things were working out perfectly. Now that blonde lizard was here and she would destroy everything.

Max was in shock. Tessa had thrown herself into his arms smothering him with hugs and kisses saying how much she had missed him. Why was she here, what was going on he wondered? After last nights lovemaking session with Liz he felt nothing more than friendship with Tessa and he was going to have to tell her that today. After the letter he had sent her, he was sure she would let him out of the engagement, he had hoped Michael would return with a letter from her, not bring her here to the place. Tessa had babbling away to him for the last 5 minutes about something but he was unable to focus on the words coming out of her mouth as his eyes kept drifting to the scene unfolding across the room, Liz smiling and laughing as she reunited with her brother. She deserved some happiness and he wanted to share it with her.

Before Max knew what was happening, Tessa had put her hand in his and was pulling him across the room to join the others.

Liz watched Max and Tessa approach her from the other side of the room hand in hand. Tessa smiled a radiant smile but Max looked very uncomfortable.

“Oh your highness, it is such a pleasure to meet our Queen.” Tessa said curtseying and extending her hand to Liz.

“And of course, it is so nice to hear that your not evil like everyone says you are.” She added with yet another smile. Maria opened her mouth to defend Liz when she felt Michael put a hand over her mouth to silence her.

Liz didn’t take offense. She looked at Max for answers as to what she was doing here. Max shrugged giving her the impression he was just as in the dark as she.

“Tessa please call me Liz” she said shaking Tessa’s hand.“I am very happy to meet you but I am wondering g what brings you to the palace?”

“I wanted to see my fiancé. I missed him.” She said as she took Max’s hand again.

“I think we all should sit down. Max, Tessa came with us because there is something we need to tell you. I know her coming here puts her in danger but she wanted to be here for you during this difficult time.” Alex explained. He was the only one in the room that did not know about Max and Liz’s relationship. He assumed the disappointment the others were showing on Tessa’s arrival was due to their fear for her safety.

“Difficult time?” Max asked puzzled as they all sat down.

“Oh Max.” Tessa said in a whiney voice. “Your father died. He died 2 nights ago in his sleep. Oh it was horrible.” She said tears streaming down her face.

“What?” Max asked getting up from his chair. They all watched as his face fell, looking ashen and he clenched his fists at his side.

“How could this have happened? Didn’t the medication work? It wasn’t supposed to be this way.” He said in shock.

“I don’t know Max. It seemed to work well at first, your father was fine but when we went to check on him in the morning he was gone.” Michael said grimly feeling a great sadness for his friend as he squeezed Maria’s hand.

Liz’s heart broke right along with Max’s. She could feel his need for her as their eyes met across the room. She got up from her chair and walked towards him. Just as she was about to pull him into her arms, Tessa pushed her aside wrapping her arms around Max quickly.

“Oh baby, I am so sorry.” Tessa said to him” I am here now and we will get through this together.

Liz stepped back quietly. She knew Max needed her but she didn”t want to create a scene with Tessa write now, it would only add to Max’s stress. She would find time to spend alone with him later on.

A single tear slid down Max’s cheek as his eyes bore into Liz’s. It was Liz he needed right now, not this blonde that was in his arms. As if sensing his thought Liz mouthed the words “I love you. Everything will be ok.” To him as a tear slid down her cheek as well and he knew it would be, as long as he had her, it would be.

Liz realized that her feeling earlier had been about Max’s father, she should never have doubted her instincts. The room was spinning around her but she had to remain strong for Max, it was spinning because the feeling was getting stronger and she knew that this was just the beginning. Something even more horrible was going to happen.

[maya]

Part 18

A few hours later the gang was exhausted. Michael, Maria, Alex and Tessa had filled Max and Liz in on everything that had happened in Cordova. Max and Liz filled them in on their conversation with Valenti. Between the long carriage ride and the emotional issues they had to deal with in the last few days they really needed rest and decided it would soon be time to call it a day.

If Alex was to be discovered now Kivar would just have him killed. The plan was to talk to Valenti and ask him to enlist the help of as many senators and advisors that were loyal to Alex as possible. Kivar would be taken out so quickly he wouldn’t even see it coming. The question was how would they get the message to Valenti?

“Vilandra.” Liz sighed.

“Do you trust her Liz?” Alex asked his sister.

“Yes because I know Alexander.” She said smiling at her brother. “I know how you feel about her and I know that you trust her.”

Alex blushed and turned a way so the rest of the group wouldn’t see his reaction.

“Besides, Kivar trusts her and as far as he knows Vilandra and I hate each other. She is the best person to talk to Valenti without drawing suspicion.”

“Good idea.” Max said. The rest of the group nodded in agreement.

“I will talk to her tonight then.” Alex said trying to keep an unemotional face, glad no one could feel the faster pace of his heart that gave away his excitement at the thought of seeing Vilandra again.

It was 11 pm, and the security shifts were over which meant that Max and Michael could go back to their rooms.

“Well I guess I will see you in the morning.” Liz said to Maria

“Oh no you don’t.” Maria said grabbing your arm. “Alex and I are staying here for a while. I will not leave until I am convinced you have told me every detail about what has happened between you and Max while we were away. I mean every detail.” She said raising an eyebrow at Liz. Maria was dying to find out if her suspicions that Max and Liz had been intimate were true.

Alex threw his head back in laughter and Liz couldn’t help but join in both knowing that when Maria went on a fishing expedition for information she always caught what she was looking for. Before Alex’s supposed death the three of them had spent all their free time together chatting, laughing, watching movies and of course eating ice cream. Now they were going to be bale to do it again.

After Michael left Max stood awkwardly just outside the open door, Tessa was at his side and he was feeling very awkward. He knew he was supposed to leave but he really wanted to talk to Liz first, to make sure she was ok with everything.

Tessa was now hanging on his arm looking up at him with a smile on his face. He sighed knowing he had to keep up pretenses with Tessa until he talked to Liz, but if he had his way he would be telling her the truth as soon as possible. He didn’t want to be in this position, Tessa had been wonderful to him all his life, it wasn’t her fault he had fallen in love with someone else. He hoped he would be able to let her down easy. Why on earth did Michael allow her to come? He would be having a talk with Michael later.

“We need to talk Tessa” he said. He needed to at least find out what her reaction was to the letter and why she was here. Then once he and Liz talked he could decided what to tell her.

“Ok let’s go to your room.” She said taking his hand. Max looked over his shoulder at Liz as they left but she was busy talking to Alex. He would find a way to talk to her later.




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



“Ok Liz what exactly happened between you and Max while we were away?” Maria asked while spooning some vanilla ice cream into her mouth.

“What?” Alex asked “Isn’t Max engaged to Tessa?” He was really confused.

“Yes Alex, but Max and Liz fell in love. Tessa doesn’t know. Max wrote Tessa a letter trying to break off their engagement and that is all we know.” She said quickly, updating Alex on the situation.

“Well I don’t think she took the letter to well.” Alex said thinking about how Tessa had gushed over Max over the last three days. It was all starting to make sense to him now though, all the strange looks passed between Max and Liz, the awkwardness in the room when they arrived.

“It’s complicated” Liz said covering her face with her hands.

“Last night it was so simple. We were just loving each other. Now it’s complicated again.”

“Liz, I am sorry we tried to talk her out of coming but she….wait a minute, you said last night you were loving each other. What exactly happened last night?” Maria’s face was full of excitement.

“Max and I made love Maria”

“Oh I knew it.” She said giving Liz a high five. “Ok, I need lots of details.”

“Maria, It’s private.” She said rolling her eyes.

“Yes, I agree with Liz. No details about my sisters sex life please.” He said squirming.

“Liz, don’t worry about that blonde lizard. They are not married yet so technically Max has no obligation to her. Besides I don’t trust her.”

“I don’t trust her either.” Alex added.

“Well if you don’t trust her why did you let her come along Alex? You are the king after all, you could have said no.” Maria was exasperated. If Tessa had stayed in Cordova these problems wouldn’t exist.

“Haven’t you heard that saying, keep your friends close but keep your enemies closer?” He replied.

“Enemies?” Liz asked puzzled. When had Tessa become their enemy?

“Alex, what do you know” Maria said looking ghostly pale.

“Let’s just say I am looking into things and leave it at that.”

When Maria started to protest Liz cut her off.

“It doesn’t matter Maria. She won’t be here long. Max promised me we would always be together. He will explain that to Tessa, she will understand. She will finish making the items for the babies room and then go back to Cordova.” She said convincingly, but a shiver ran up her spine and she realized she wasn’t convinced at all.

“He better not hurt you Liz.” Alex said through clenched teeth.

“So Alex, you and Vilandra?” Liz asked trying to change the subject.

“How did you know?” He asked scratching behind his ear nervously.

“She told me. We’ve gotten close over the last few days.”

“Really?” Maria asked in surprise. Vilandra was usually such an ice queen.

“Maria, she’s had a very hard life but when you break through that ice you see she is such an amazing person.” She said smiling at Alex.

“Umm” Alex scratched his throat. “Liz, how would you feel when this is all over, if Vilandra became your sister in law?” He asked her sheepishly.

“I would love it” she said throwing herself into Alex’s arms.” She was so happy for him but when she pulled away her smile faded.

“Alex, um, you do know that since you died, she’s been Kivar’s mistress?”She asked him quietly not knowing how he would react.

“What?” he screamed getting up and pacing the room.

“Alex, she thought you were dead. She turned to the wrong person and her priorities were a little ….well lacking but she loved you and now that your back….” She trailed off not quite knowing what to say.

Liz walked over to Alex and stood in front of him to stop him from pacing.

“She is on our side now and will help in any way she can but she has to stay with him for now, keep up the pretense or else he will be suspicious.” She clarified.

“Is she sleeping with him?” He asked not really wanting to know the answer.

“Yes”

“Oh god.” The thought of it made him want to be sick.



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


Once Max had closed the door to his room he and Tessa sat on his bed.

“Did you get my letter?” He asked her.

“Yes”

“And?” He prompted her to say more.

“Max, I will wait for you. I am so proud of you for protecting Antar. When I found out your father died I had to be with you to comfort you and I realized that if I came up here we could be together right away. I wouldn’t have to wait, it’s no longer an issue.” She said and then hugged him and brushed her lips against him, quickly intensifying the kiss, pushing her tongue into his mouth.

Max felt sick. Her kisses were so rough and sloppy, nothing like Liz’s kisses. Why hadn”t he realized it before? He quickly pushed her away.

“Tessa, we can’t do this.” He said turning his back to her so he could wipe his mouth with the back of his hand without her seeing how repulsed he was.

“Why not Max?” She asked turning him to face her and batting her eyelashes at him.

“After what happened with your father, I have realized how precious life is. I have realized how much I need you.”

“That’s just it, after what happened with my father I need time Tessa.” He said taking the opening she had given him to find a temporary way out of this situation until he talked to Liz.

“Oh, of course, it is too soon. I wasn’t thinking Max” She said knowing full well this had nothing to do with his father’s death and everything to do with a certain Queen that was vying for his attention. It was obvious now that Max wasn’t going to come to her willingly. He would need a push from someone and she knew exactly who that someone would be.

[maya]

Part 19

Liz was lying in bed when she heard the light tap at her bedroom door.

“Come in.” She said with a smile knowing it was Max.

It was 2 in the morning but she wasn’t asleep, she was waiting for him.

Max took off his shirt and pants and slid into bed beside her.

“Hold me.” She whispered and he did just that, breathing in her sweet scent and wrapping his arms around her.

“Max, I am so sorry about your father.” She said soothingly turning over to face him. When their eyes met she could see that he was desperately holding back tears.

“Let it out baby.” She said softly running her hands up and down his right arm.

Max sobbed and sobbed, burying his head in her chest as she stroked the back of his head. Once he had calmed down she licked the tears off of his face and then kissed his lips tenderly. He responded immediately placing soft kisses on her nose, her cheek and then trailing kisses down her neck. He took her lips again feverishly. He had her, he needed her and he would never let her go.

They made love not slowly like they had the previous night but hungrily with great need as though they didn’t know if it would happen again.

“Don’t ever leave me Liz.” He whispered hoarsely his voice still sore from crying as he spilled his seed inside of her.

“I love you Max.” She cried following him over the edge as their lips met once again.

Afterwards they held each other and discussed the situation at hand.

“It killed me Max, that I couldn’t comfort you Max, but with Tessa right there I couldn’t.” She said this time tears spilling down her face.

“Shh, I know baby, It’s ok. I understand. Just knowing you were there was enough and I saw the words you were mouthing to me.” He was tracing circles on her stomach now.

“Did you talk to her?” She asked.

“Yes, I told her that I needed time because of my father’s death. I didn’t tell her about us.” He said rubbing her back.

“Oh.”

“Not because I don’t plan to I just…I don’t know. I’ve known Tessa my whole life and she has never done anything to deserve what I am about to say but I just don’t trust how she will react. I have to follow my gut here. If she creates a scene in the palace it could create problems. Also, I feel bad, I’m the one who fell in love with someone else, all she has ever done is love me.” He said feeling very confused.

Liz nodded “I trust you Max. If this is how you feel it should be handled then we won’t tell her for now.” She said taking his lips once again.

Tessa was fuming as she watched them begin to rock against each other again, this time taking more time with each other as if trying to memorize every inch, every curve of each other. Max had made love to Liz when all this time he wouldn’t make love to her. Tomorrow couldn’t come soon enough.


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The next morning at 7 am Max resumed his post outside of Liz’s room. He was relieved Alex was staying in his room, it was a good reason to give Tessa for why she couldn’t stay overnight in his room, not that he planned to be there much himself because he would probably be with Liz most nights he thought grinning to himself.

“Good morning Max.” Tessa said as she walked down the hall towards him.

“Tessa.” He said “What are you doing here?” He wondered if she would ever give him a break.

“I came to talk to Liz. I have to start the sewing today and I need to know exactly what she w ants done.”

“Oh.” Max said opening the door for Tessa and starting to follow her in.

“Oh Max, there’s no need for you to come in. We can handle this on our own, right Liz?” She asked Liz as she entered the room.

“Right. “ Liz answered giving Max a look that it was ok. Max closed the door and went back out into the hall.

“So Tessa.” Liz said. “Anything you want to make for the babies room is fine with me. Curtains, bed sheets that sort of thing would be perfect.” She continued smiling at Tessa.

“Look Liz, I know about you and Max.” Tessa snarled.

“What?” Liz asked caught of guard. Max couldn’t possibly have told her. He had only left her room a few minutes ago.

“Max doesn’t know.” She said as if sensing Liz’s question.

“I have known for a while, that is why I came here.” She explained further.

“Sorry Tessa, we didn’t mean to hurt you.” Liz didn’t know what else to say. She glanced at the door wondering if she should alert Max.

“I don’t care if your sorry because you are going to end it and tell him to come back to me.” Tessa replied folding her arms in her chest.

“Look Tessa, I know you are hurt but Max loves me and we are going to be together.” Liz was getting angry now.

“If you don’t, I will tell Kivar Alex is still alive and your not pregnant. Just in case you don’t get it Liz, that means Kivar will kill both you and Alex.” She smiled smugly. It was great to be holding all the cards.

“Are you threatening me?” Liz asked shocked. She knew that Alex and Maria both had reservations about Tessa but this was, this was more horrible than she could have ever imagined. How did a farm girl end up so cruel and jaded?

“Well he will kill Max and Michael too.” Liz stated.

“Oh I am sure Kivar and I could work out a deal for Max’s life” Tessa said with a confident smile.

“Why are you doing this?” Liz asked, a mix of anger and terror in her voice.

“Because I can. You took something that belonged to me and I want it back”

“He will never believe me when I end it.” Liz said. What they had together was so real, she knew he could never fall out of love with her.

“Make him believe it, or you know what will happen. Oh and he is never to know that we had this conversation. Am I clear?” She asked

“Crystal” Liz said as Tessa walked out the door. Things couldn’t get any worse. They just couldn’t.

[maya]

Part 20

Alex was sitting in Max’s room. He hadn’t slept well the previous night at all. He felt that he had the weight of the world on his shoulders. He needed to take back the throne as soon as possible but he had to make sure he kept the two people he love most, Liz and Vilandra safe. Liz had been so strong in his absence but he feared she was at her breaking point. And she had fallen in love with max. He shook his head. He liked Max, he really did but he was engaged to someone else, someone else that Alex did not trust at all and he really worried about where this would all lead.

He opened the door slightly and peeked outside hoping to see Michael or Maria nearby. Instead he saw Vilandra, looking as beautiful as ever walking down the hallway towards her room. He opened the door a little wider, put his arm out and grabbed a hold of her pulling him into the room with him and closing the door behind them.

“Alex!” She screamed when she turned to look at her captor.

He nodded putting a finger to his mouth to silence her.

“Sorry.”She whispered. “I was just so happy to see you.” She smiled.

God she was so beautiful.

“Alex, I thought you were dead so I…”She stopped mid sentence unable to get the words out.

“I know you are with Kivar. Liz explained it to me.” He said looking down at his shoes. He understood her reasons but was having a hard time dealing with it. It was hard for him to think of Vilandra with anyone else especially Kivar. He and Vilandra had gotten closer before his supposed death but had not been intimate and the thought that she and been with Kivar just sickened him.

“Alex, there is no excuse.” She said sitting down on the bed and dropping her haed shamefully.

“You don’t have to explain.” He said sitting down beside her and taking her hand.

“Yes I do.” She said and then continued.

“I was so lonely and you were gone and I felt I had no one. You know I have no family. He promised me he would overthrow Liz and make me his Queen and I admit I wanted that but I didn’t know he was going to kill her, when I found out I told her and I agreed to help….I would never hurt your family.” She said. He had lifted her head and their eyes met. She found herself quickly getting lost in his soulful eyes.

He sat their silently for a while and then asked her a question.

“You said you wanted to be Queen. What do you want know?”

“I want you Alex.”Sshe said tears swimming in her eyes.

That answer was all he needed to hear. He immediately pulled her into his arms, kissing her lips softly. She deepened the kiss quickly, tugging on his hair to bring his head closer to her as they explored the deep recesses of each others mouths.

After a few minutes they pulled apart, knowing this was as far as things could go now. They had other things to worry about right now.

“Vilandra, we need your help.” Alex said.

“Anything” she said standing up to face him.

“You will be attending the banquet with Kivar tonight, right?” He asked her.

“Yes”

“I need you to pass on a message to Valenti.” He said as he leaned forward and proceeded to whisper the message into her ear.

“Alex, when this is all over…”

“When this is all over we will pick up where we left off.” He said kissing her nose.

She smiled but then her face fell.

“Alex, you know I am sleeping with Kivar and I have to keep doing it. After the banquet he will expect it.” She said knowing last week she had used the excuse of her period to put him off and wouldn’t be able to use that excuse again for a few more weeks.

“I know. I hate it and I am sorry. I wish I could just kill him” he said bile rising in is throat again.

“I know” she said sadly as she left the room closing the door behind her.



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Maria said Hello to Max as she passed him, excitedly entering Liz’s room. She couldn’t wait to get more details on Liz’s night of intimacy with Max. She couldn’t ask some of the questions she had wanted to earlier because Max was there. It wasn’t that she was nosy, ok she was nosy but there was more to it than that. The truth was that she was considering taking that step with Michael. She wasn’t sure if she was ready or not but she knew Liz would be able to help her sort it out.

Liz had been standing by the window deep in thought when the sounds of the door startled her. She turned around half expecting to see Max, and was relived to see her best friend standing there. She just wasn’t ready to see Max yet, she was still unsure of what course of action to take.

The last 2 hours she had been walking the border of sanity and insanity, all she could think about was Tessa and she didn’t know what to do. On one hand she was a Queen and could have Tessa put to death for threatening her. The problem was that Kivar was holding her captive, had taken away her signing authority. If she tried to punish Tessa the truth that Alex was here in this very palace sleeping in the servant quarters and that she was not pregnant would come to light. She couldn’t allow that to happen. She would not have her brother back only to loose him once again. Not to mention the fact that she would be putting Maria, Michael and possibly even Max in danger, Tessa was sure she could bargain with Kivar for Max’s safety but Liz wasn’t so sure, Tessa did not know the evil that was Kivar.

Her only hope was to break it off with Max for now and hope that if Alex’s plan to take back the throne was successful she could expose Tessa for the rat that she was . No she shook her head, she shouldn’t say if Alex’s plan was successful; she would have to say when. Be positive. It was going to work. It just had to.

“Earth to Liz.” Maria said snapping her fingers in front of Liz’s face.

“What Maria?” Liz asked her friend confusion etched on her face.

“I’ve said hello to you three times and your just standing there like a zombie.” She laughed.

“Sorry Maria, I have a lot on my mind. What’s up?” She asked her as the two sat down on the couch in the sitting area in Liz’s room.

“I need more details on your night with Max. How did you know it was the right time? Was her gentle with you?...”

Maria continued on with her questions but Liz was deep in thought once again. The only decision left to make was should she tell Max? She could tell him of Tessa’s plan and they could stage a breakup. This way she wouldn’t have to break his heart. On the other hand, if she did this and Tessa overheard them she would surely go to Kivar. Tessa seemed to have a sway of knowing what was going on, like she had a 6th sense and it was almost creepy. She shuddered when she thought about it. Her mind was made up, Max and the others couldn’t know.

“Liz, are you listening to me at all?” Maria said getting up from the couch and standing with her hands on her hips.

“I am so sorry Maria. I have been so distracted. Ask again and I promise I will answer.” She said smiling.

“I wanted some more details on your night with Max” Maria said softly a bit concerned. Liz always gave you her full attention. What was going on?

Liz took a deep breath and the lie began. “My night with Max was a mistake.” She sad softly.

“What? What do you mean a mistake?” Maria asked Liz raising her eyebrows in disbelief.

“He should be with Tessa, Maria. She is his fiancée. I am breaking the whole thing off with him tonight.” She said staring at the throw pillows on the couch. She just couldn’t look Maria in the eye.

“Liz, what is going on? You know your meant to be together. He loves you, you love him, you have nothing to feel guilty about. The blonde lizard cannot be trusted anyway. I think she’s been manipulating Liz all along.”

“It’s not about guilt. It’s about doing what is right. They belong together and I have made Max betray her. I feel like some kind of a hoar.” She couldn’t believe she was downplaying the wonderful night she and Max had shared.

“Are you feeling ok?” Maria asked putting her hand on Liz’s forehead.

Liz flinched at Maria’s touch and rolled her eyes forcing a playful laugh.” Maria I am fine” she said knowing she wasn’t fine. That a piece of her was dying inside. If telling Maria was this hard, how on earth would she be able to tell Max?

“Look Maria, I just really need some time to myself right now.”

Maria honored her request and left the room shaking her head. Something just wasn’t right and she was going to find out what it was.



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


“Don’t you look beautiful” Kivar swooned as he placed a diamond necklace around Vilandra’s neck.

“I am even more beautiful now.” She said getting up from her makeup table and giving Kivar a light Kiss. “Thank you” She was fighting her urge to kick him in the groin.

After two hours of dancing, appearing completely devoted to Kivar Vilandra saw her chance. Patrick had interrupted them pulling asking if he could pull Kivar away for a few minutes on business matters.

“I am sorry my dear, I know I said that tonight I would be all yours.” He said kissing her lips softly.” Acting like a gentleman. He always did as long as he was getting what he wanted but at the first sign of conflict he became a monster.

“It’s ok. You’re a king. That always comes first.”

“I won’t be long.”

Vilandra saw Valenti on the terrace and decided it was the perfect time for her to get some fresh air.

“I’m just going to get some fresh air.” She said

“He grabbed her arm. “Don’t be long. I expect you to be ready and waiting when I get back.” He said.

Vilandra headed out to the terrace, slowly, trying not to draw suspicion. She stood a few feet away from Valenti and spoke to him looking straight ahead instead of at him.

“Valenti.” She whispered motioning him over to a more secluded area at the side of the terrace.

“I have a message from the King.” She said quietly when he joined her.

“What does Kivar want?” He asked dryly.

Vilandra looked around to make sure no one was watching them.

“Not Kivar, Alex” She said and Valenti”s eyes widened in surprise.

Vilandras voice fell into a whisper once again as she relayed Alex’s message and made her way quickly back to the dance floor just in time to meet Kivar for another dance.

“Well, now they we’ve made our appearances, I think its time to go back to my room for a little fun of our own.” Kivar sneered taking Vilandra by the hand and leading her out of the ballroom.