Roswell Fanatics

Chapter 11

It wasn’t long until it was Christmas time. School was out, and Maria and her friends were spending their times hanging out and getting ready for the Children’s Center Christmas Festival.

Things were going well with everyone. Isabel and Michael’s relationship was moving a little slow, but they were both still together and going strong. Max broke up with Liz, mostly because he didn’t see the point in staying with someone who he wasn’t over the moon for. They parted amiably; no one’s feelings were hurt. Tess was still Tess, in everyone’s business and loving every minute of it.

The football season was over, so lives were a little less hectic. The Comets were State Runners-Up, something that didn’t make Kyle or Jim too happy, since it was his last year. But Kyle didn’t let it get too him too much. Life was good. Football, in the end, was just a game.

Maria and Kyle were great as well. In just a few months, one would never know there was a rift between them at one point. They were as thick as thieves. Wherever one was, the other was too. Kyle even started volunteering at the Children’s Center. He made up and excuse about it being something he always wanted to de, but in reality, he just wanted to spend more time with Maria.

Maria’s mom was still in Jail, awaiting her trial in February. Sucked for her, but that was what happened when you could only afford a public defender and the Sheriff of Roswell was out for your scalp.

It was the day before Christmas Eve, and the day before the festival, and the group was gathered in the Evans’ living room finalizing the plans for tomorrow’s big day when Maria’s cell phone rang. “Hello?” she answered; distracted by the button she was sewing on the elf costume she would be wearing the next day.

“What!” she cried, dropping her work. She stood up and paced the room, a look of anger on her face. Kyle had to adjust himself, as seeing an angry Maria only turned him on. To tell the truth, he was starting to realize everything about Maria turned him on.

Maria finally clicked the phone shut without so much as a goodbye. “Damnit!” she cursed.

“What’s up, Maria?” Isabel asked from the floor.

“My stupid Santa is in jail, for drunk and disorderly conduct.” She said. “I don’t know what I’m going to do!”

Everyone looked to each other for answers. They couldn’t very well have a Christmas Festival without Santa.

Suddenly, Kyle stood up. “Well, if someone could take my kids, I could do it,” he said.

Maria’s eyes brightened up and before she knew it, she was tackling him to the ground. “OH THANK YOU!” she cried, excitedly. The rest of the group laughed at her over the top reaction, even Kyle, though he found it hard to breath with Maria being so close, her body pressed against his. He prayed to god she couldn’t feel his erection that he was sure was poking her.

Maria felt a tingle rush through her body as she lay practically on top of Kyle, and she quickly moved away hoping no on noticed her flushed face, or the fact that she had just plastered herself to Kyle. “Okay, well that’s settled,” she said, brushing the hair out of her face. “I’ll get Kari to take your kids.”

“Ok, so what else is there left to do?” Isabel asked, as she was always the one to make sure all their ducks were in a row.

********

Maria collapsed on the couch the next night, and Kyle followed suit. “Whew, I’m tired,” she said with a smile. The day had been a complete success, and the kids had a wonderful time. Brody even surprised everyone but donating $500,000 to the Children’s Center. He really was a great man.

“Yeah, I’m tired too. How about we call it a night? The Christmas Nazi will be after us early tomorrow to go to the soup kitchen.” Kyle chuckled.

Maria smiled too, “Yeah, okay.” She said, but she really didn’t want to move. Finally, pulling herself off the couch, with great effort, she made her way up the stairs with Kyle right behind her.

When she got to her room, she turned around and faced Kyle. “I know you’re tired, but…” she started, “Do you wanna watch Rudolf with me?” she asked, knowing she sounded like an idiot.

Kyle ginned at her. “Sure,” he said. “Let me just get ready for bed.” When he entered his room and closed the door, Maria shut the door behind him and leaned against it. She banged her head against the door as she rolled her eyes at herself.

“Do you want to watch Rudolf? Seriously!” she sighed. “I’m an idiot.”

Shaking her head at herself she quickly got changed into her sleepwear. She decided to go with a tight tee-shirt and some short shorts. There was no point denying, she wanted to have an effect on Kyle, even if she knew she wouldn’t. A girl could try. Before she could talk herself into putting on a floor length moo-moo, Kyle knocked on the door. “Come in,” she called, turning on her tv.

Kyle moved into the room and shut the door behind him. When he saw Maria bent over her VCR, inserting the video, her tiny shorts barely covering her, he almost chocked on his own breath. “Ready?” she asked, turning around to smile at him.

“Umm, yeah,” he said, finding his voice. Maria took the sight of him in. In just a tee-shirt and boxers, he still oozed with sexiness. GET IT TOGETHER! She told herself. Kyle is your friend. He could have any girl he wanted. He does not want you.

“Can you flip the lights,” she said getting into bed. Kyle turned off the light and then joined Maria in bed, taking a few seconds to get his heart rate and bodily reaction under control. He slipped under the covers and Maria pressed play on the movie. “I love this movie,” she said smiling as she snuggled into her bed.

After a few minutes, Kyle got comfortable too, and before he knew it Maria was snoring lightly and sleeping on his chest. God, he wanted to pull her into him, kiss her senseless and run his hands up and down that creamy skin of hers. His cock jumped at the though, but he pushed the thought from his head, trying his hardest to pay attention to the red-nosed reindeer.

***********

Christmas at the soup kitchen was actually fun, and it didn’t take much time from their day. Maria and Kyle were back home by 4:00 and with Jim working on Christmas to give his deputies a break at the holiday, they found themselves laying on the couch watching TV again.

Maria’s head about in Kyle’s lap, and luckily his penis was behaving itself. “So, Kyle, are you going to college?” Maria asked, out of the blue.

“Umm,” Kyle started, caught off guard. “Yeah,” he said, “That’s the plan. I still haven’t really done anything about it, yet though,” he admitted. The truth was, he was scared to death about the future. “Why do you ask?”

“I don’t know,” Maria said with a sigh, “It’s just getting to be that time, and I want to go, but I just don’t know how I’m going to pay for it, or if I’ll get in, or…or…I don’t know,” Maria said sitting up to look at Kyle.

“Maria, first of all, you have kick ass grades, you can get in anywhere, and secondly don’t worry about the finances. Just apply where you want to go, and we can figure the rest out.” He didn’t even notice that he used the term “we.” It just seemed so natural to refer to them together now. He didn’t know how he lived without her in his life. She was quickly becoming the center of his universe.

“Well, then let’s get started,” Maria said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. She pulled Kyle up from his seat, and he just laughed and followed her up to his room. “So, where should we start?”

“Maria, we don’t have to do this right now!” he said, laughing.

“Well, it’s as good a time as any.” Maria said. College was important to her, and she wanted to make sure she did everything right. “How ‘bout this,” she said, “We both apply to the same schools and see what happens.” She said.

Kyle looked at her in the eyes, “You mean, you want to go to school with me?” he asked, like a lame ass.

Maria smiled brightly at him. “Well, I’m mean, it would be nice. Kyle, you are by best friend.” She said. “Why, do you not want to go to the same place as me?” she asked, self-conscious.

Kyle looked at her like she was crazy. Of course he wanted to go where she was going. He didn’t even want to think of the possibility that they would be split up now that he had finally gotten his head out of his ass and realized she was the best thing that could ever happen to him. “No, Maria, I totally want to go to the same school. I was just surprised is all.” He clarified. She had told him he was her best friend. Not Isabel. Not Tess. He was. No way was he just going to let her go off to college by herself.

They spent the rest of the day starting applications for college.

*********

When school started, Maria and Kyle really went to work on their grades. They had submitted their applications, and now all they could do was wait. With school, work, volunteering, and hanging out with the gang, it was no time before February was upon them, and Maria had to go to court for her mother’s trial.

“Jim,” Maria asked, the morning of her trial.

“Yeah, sweetie,” he had come to call her that all the time, and Maria really liked it.

“Can…can Kyle come to court with me today?” she asked. “I know it’s a school day, but I’d feel more comfortable if he was there.”

Jim smiled at her, “You guys have gotten so close,” he said, “I think that’s great. Sure, he can come with you. I’ll call the school.” Maria smiled and when Kyle came down she told him the news and he smiled, hugging her close to him for just a second, because much more would make those romantic feelings hit him. And Maria didn’t need romance today. She needed a friend.

“Cool, well let me know when you are ready to go,” Kyle said. “I better change.”

When he came back down, Kyle looked good enough to eat in his black slacks and royal blue button down shirt. Maria thought she might have to wipe up the drool from her mouth. What was she doing? She was getting ready to testify against her mother, with no practice in front of a lawyer, and all she could do was think about how sexy Kyle was. Sick, man! She was totally sick.

********

“Ms. DeLuca, Where were you on the night of September 3?” The prosecutor asked her.

Maria cleared her throat, nervous, “I was at work at the UFO Center, and then I went straight home,” she said.

“And, when you got home, was your mother there?”

“Objection, the defendant should be referred to by her name, not familial articles,” her mother’s attorney said without even looking up from his papers.

“Sustained.” The judge ruled.

“Ok, Ms. DeLuca, was Amy DeLuca home when you got there?” The prosecutor rephrased.

“No,” Maria answered. “I went to bed before she came home.”

“Now, tell the court what exactly you remember from that night.” The prosecutor said.

Maria took a deep breath and brought her mind back to the night in question. “Well, I was tired and went to sleep around midnight.” She started. She looked up and found Kyle in the courtroom. He gave her a sympathetic smile and she continued, “All of a sudden, I’m not sure what time it was, I was awakened my mother shaking me and screaming at me.” She said. Her eyes were tearing, but she would not allow them to fall. She could be strong. “She pulled me out into the living room and started beating me.” Maria said.

“What did she use to strike you?” the prosecutor asked. Her voice was so matter-of-fact. Kyle thought she could at least be a little compassionate. He really didn’t like that woman.

“Her fists at first.” Maria said, “Then she began to kick me. That’s all I remember. The next thing that I remember was waking up just enough to call 911.” Maria said.

“Thank you, Ms. DeLuca,” The prosecutor said. “Now, let me ask. Has this kind of thing ever happened before.”

“Objection,” Amy’s attorney said.

“I’ll rephrase. Has Amy DeLuca ever beaten you before?” she asked.

Maria took a deep breath, and closed her eyes for just a second, getting her emotions under control. Kyle sat there helplessly and watched her struggle with her emotions. “Yes,” Maria finally answered.

“How many times?”

“Three,” Maria answered, “But this was the worst.”

“Any why did you never report it before?” The prosecutor asked.

“I was afraid,” Maria said.

“Of what?”

“She is my mother. She’s my only family,” she said, though that was not really true anymore. Jim and Kyle were her family. Her friends were her family, now. “I didn’t know what would happen to me.” She said.

“And why did you report it this time?”

Maria thought for a moment. “I couldn’t take it anymore. Besides, if I hadn’t gone to the hospital, I could have died.” Maria’s words his Kyle hard as he continued to listen. “I have a support system now. I know I don’t need my mother.” She said, gaining more confidence.

“Thank you, Ms. DeLuca. That’s all.” She said.

Maria looked to her mother’s attorney to see if she was going to be cross-examined. She was hoping he would continue to be useless and let it go, but he didn’t. She sighed as he stood up, holding a notebook in his hand.

“Ms. DeLuca, is it true that Amy DeLuca has a drinking problem?” He asked.

“Objection!” The prosecutor yelled, “How is Ms. DeLuca supposed to give a medical opinion.”

“Sustained,” the judge ruled.

“I’ll rephrase. Has Amy DeLuca every exhibited signs of abusing alcohol in your opinion?” he asked her.

“Yes, she was always drunk,” Maria said with disgust.

“And during these times when she is drunk, is she different, in your opinion, to when she is sober?” he asked.

“Well, of course,” Maria said.

“How so?”

“Well, when she is drunk she is mean. When she is drunk she brings random men home.” Maria said, her voice rising with anger. These were stupid questions.

“Okay,” the attorney said, nodding at her answers. She didn’t know what he was getting at. Kyle didn’t either, but when he looked at his father, he saw a worried look on his face.

“And did any of these men that Amy DeLuca brought home ever hurt you?” the attorney asked.

“Objection, relevance.” The prosecutor interjected.

“Ms. DeLuca’s past relationship with Amy DeLuca and Mrs. DeLuca’s love interests is integral in discerning the truthfulness and relevance of her testimony.” Amy’s attorney reasoned.

“Overruled.” The judge said, leaning forward, “Answer the question, Ms. DeLuca.” He said.

“Can you repeat it?” She asked, her throat growing dry.

“Did any of Amy DeLuca’s boyfriends ever hurt you?’ he asked again.

Maria’s eyes went to Kyle’s again. He smiled at her, knowing she needed strength. He didn’t know the answer to this question, but he was guessing he wouldn’t like it.

“Yes,” Maria said, staring daggers at the man in front of her. What did this have to do with any thing?

“Sexually?’ he asked nonchalantly.

Maria looked to the judge for help, but he just motioned for her to answer the question.

She looked down at her hands. They were shaking, and the tears in her eyes were too much to hold back as a few drops fell on her palms. She looked up at Kyle, and he looked back. He was there for her, no matter what, and she loved him for it. He smiled at her and she sniffled before she answered. “Yes.”

Kyle held his breath. He hadn’t known that. She had told him everything. Everything. The beatings, the drinking, everything, but she had never told him that. He would kill those men. In that moment, he knew he would kill anyone that ever hurt Maria again.

“How did they hurt you sexually?” He pressed further. Maria felt the air being sucked out of the room. Oh god, don’t make me do this, her mind screamed.

“OBJECTION! This has nothing to do with the case. Mr. Ryan is just trying to make this poor girl uncomfortable on the stand.” The prosecutor said, and as much as Kyle didn’t like her, he could have kissed her in that moment.

“Sustained.” The judge ruled. “Keep your questions confined to Ms. DeLuca and her relationship with Amy DeLuca.”

Amy’s attorney sighed, and said, “That’s all.”

“Okay, Ms. DeLuca, you are excused,” the judge said with a smile. She wanted to punch him, but instead, she just got up and walked quickly out of the room.

Kyle and Jim both exited the courtroom after her and found her in a heap on the floor, crying.

“Maria,” Kyle said, kneeling next to her, and pulling her into his arms. “Shhh,” he said, “its okay now, Maria. Everything is going to be ok,” he promised, and if he had anything to say about it everything would be okay.

Jim just let Kyle take the reigns. He was pretty sure that Kyle was just what she needed right now. Soon, she was wiping her face, and Kyle was helping her up.

“What do you say we get some food,” Jim said putting his arms around both Kyle and Maria. She smiled at him gratefully. She just wanted to get over this entire day.

********

That night, Maria knocked on Kyle’s door. “Can I come in,” she asked.

Kyle smiled and told her she could. When she walked in, she walked over to his bed and sat down next to him. “I wanted to tell you about today,” she said, her voice nearly shaking with nervousness. She had never told anyone what she was about to tell Kyle. But for some reason, she felt compelled to come completely clean to him.

“You don’t have to,” Kyle said, sitting up against the headboard.

“No, I really need to. You’re the only one I can tell,” she said looking at him intensely.

“Okay,” he said with a smile. He would be there for her no matter what.

“It was just one time. I was 15 years old, and my mom had recently fallen head-first into the bottle. She had this boyfriend, right after your dad, named Marco. And one night, I guess my mom had passed out,” she started, and Kyle pulled her into his arms as an act of comfort.

“Anyway, Marco came into my room, in the middle of the night, and I remember waking up to him pulling my panties off.” She said, tears coming to her eyes. A few fell down her cheeks but she continued. “I started to scream, but he clamped his hand down on me. I cried and cried, but I was too weak, and he was so strong. He was touching me and I heard his zipper come down.” She continued, now crying openly.

“It’s okay, Maria. I’m here,” Kyle said, not even knowing where that came from, but it seemed to be what she needed to hear because she held onto him tighter and finished her story.

“Somewhere within me, I found the strength to kick. And I did. Right in the balls,” she laughed a little at herself. “He staggered back, regained his composure, and smacked me hard across the face, but it seemed to work because he left the room, and I never saw him again.” Maria said.

“I’m so sorry,” Kyle replied, smoothing down her hair. “I’m so so sorry.” It wasn’t enough, but he couldn’t fix the past no matter how much he tried. He could only control the present, and in the present, Maria would never have to live a nightmare like that.

“Thank you for listening to me, Kyle.” Maria said, smiling. “I actually feel a lot better now that I’ve told someone. It’s like I can move past it now.”

“Good,” he said with a smile, as he leaned in and kissed her forehead. He had no idea where that came from.

Maria smiled at him, a tingle running through her body, and she though about kissing him for real, but she realized that he was just comforting her, not hitting on her. “Night, Kyle.” She said, hugging him once more.

“Night,” Kyle returned as she left his room. He fell back on the bed. He was a goner. He knew it.

TBC…

Chapter 12

“The Jury finds the defendant Guilty for Felony Assault. Guilty for Battery. And guilty for Child Neglect.” The foreman of the Jury read the next day in the courtroom. Maria smiled and turned to Jim, who was sitting next to her in the courtroom. He wrapped his arms around her and hugged her tight.

“Sentencing will be set for tomorrow at nine,” the Judge ruled, and court was adjourned. Maria watched her mother being taken back to jail by the bailiff, and saw no remorse in the woman’s face. It was amazing how she seemed to be more concerned that she was going to jail than that he she had almost killed her own daughter.

“Okay, you want to go back to school?” Jim asked, more than willing to let Maria stay home another day.

“Yeah, I’ve got a test later today,” she said with a smile. Besides, the trial was over. She felt a huge weight lifted off her shoulders.

**********

Maria, Isabel, and Tess sat at their regular booth later that day at the Crashdown. “Well, let me just say, I’m glad the whole thing is over now.” Tess said, as Maria told them about the verdict.

“Yeah,” Maria said, with a nod. “I just want to move on and forget the whole thing now,” she said with a smile. She knew it wouldn’t be quite that east, but she could dream.

“So, what are you doing tonight?” Isabel asked, knowing Maria didn’t feel much like talking about this topic anymore.

“Nothing.” Maria said. “Brody is out of town and I took the whole week off at the Children’s Center for the trial.”

“Yeah, I’ve got a lot of homework,” Tess said, groaning dramatically. Maria almost laughed. Everything about that girl was dramatic and always had been. She loved Tess to death, but she sure knew how to make a mountain out of a mole-hill.

“Yeah, me too,” Isabel said. “Where are Kyle, Max, and Michael?” she asked looking around for them.

As if speaking to the gods, the guys walked into the Crashdown and took their seats around the girls. “Where were you?” Isabel asked, looking at her watch.

“None ya,” Michael said. “None ya business.” He grinned at the girls, who all rolled their eyes in unison. Michael leaned in a pecked Isabel on the lips, causing her to giggle. The two of them were getting better at showing affection in public, but they were still both very private people, except with their friends.

“So, what happened?” Kyle asked, having not been able to talk to Maria or Jim at all that day. It was the one thing he needed to know. Was Amy going to jail or not?

“Guilty,” Maria said with a smile.

“Damn straight,” Kyle said with a huge grin, as he hugged her close to him. Maria almost moaned as he pulled her to him. He always did things like that. Did it mean something? He always touched her, and hugged her, and smiled at her, and… No, she had to be looking too much into this. It was nothing. Or was it?

As he let her go, she felt a sense of loss. There was something so natural and comforting about them being together, close, like that. Maria shook it off though. There was no use thinking about any of that now. She just wanted to bask in the feeling of happiness over her mother’s conviction.

*********

And things continued to get better for Maria, as well as the rest of her friends. Her mother was given 30 years in prison, with the possibility of parole only after 20 years. She knew her mother would never have a place in her life again because, by the time she got out, Maria would have already picked up and moved out of Roswell.

February passed with ease and it was mid-March before they all knew it. Spring Break was only a week away, and Maria was really looking for some time off of school. Only Max had heard from his college of choice, because he applied for early Admission to Northwestern, and he was a possible Valedictorian, so everyone knew he would get in. So, Maria and Kyle were still working hard on their grades, hoping it would help them in the end.

They were all sitting around the Valenti’s the Friday before their last week of school before Spring Break when Jim walked into the living room all smiles. “Hey kids,” he greeted, sitting down on the couch. He had a couple of envelopes in his hands, and he rarely hung out with them when they were all together, probably because he figured they wanted to be alone.

“What’s up, dad?” Kyle asked.

“Well, I just wanted to tell you all that I think you all have done a great job this year.” He started, still smiling. “And I have a surprise for all of you.”

The gang looked at each other confused, when Jim continued by handing each of them an envelope. “I talked to all of your parents and we got you a little something.” He said.

The group hesitated for a minute before opening their envelopes. Inside were two plane tickets. “Oh my god!” Isabel said first, too shocked to know what else to say.

“Jamaica?!” Tess nearly squealed. “We are going to Jamaica!?”

“Yep.” Jim said. “You guys deserve it. Have fun,” he said, getting up.

“Wait, who paid for mine?” Michael asked. He had no parents, and knew someone had to have pick up his slack.

“The Evans’ actually,” Jim said. He’d offered, but they wanted to pay for him.

Michael was beyond surprised. He didn’t know they actually cared about him enough to do something like that for him. Maria hugged Jim before he left and whispered a ‘thank you’ in his ear.

“Oh my God!” Isabel said again, “We have to get ready!”

“Right now?’ Maria giggled.

“Well yeah!” Isabel said. “We’ve got to buy new bikinis and clothes and plan what we are going to do and everything!” Maria smiled at her friend and nodded.

“Okay, tomorrow we shop.” Max said. “Tonight, let’s just chill.”

“Okay.” Isabel said, disappointed, but there was no use doing anything tonight. The mall was closed.

Kyle was just happy he was going to get to see Maria in a bikini all week long. He’d given up trying to push her from his mind. It just wasn’t possible anymore. They did everything together, most of all sleep on many occasions. This was going to be fun. And if the Jamaican mood struck them right, maybe it could be more, though he wasn’t holding his breath.

********

A week later, the group met up at the Roanoke Regional Airport, ready for their week in the sun.

“I hate flying,” Maria complained as she slumped down in her seat next to Kyle.

“Have you ever flown before?” Kyle asked skeptically. Maria had told him before that she’d never been far away from home before.

“Well, no,” Maria said, “but that’s not the point.” Kyle chuckled at her.

“You will be fine. It’s not that long a flight, and I promise the taking off and landing are the only scary parts.”

“Yeah, and that is pretty scary,” Maria said, biting her lip and looking out the window. Oh well, there was a first time for everything. She’d have to get over her fear at some point if she ever wanted to be a world traveler.

Kyle reached over and held onto Maria’s hand as the plane lifted off, and Maria realized it wasn’t that bad. Once they were in the air it was smooth sailing, and when Kyle grabbed her hand for landing, she didn’t even need it, but she still reveled in the feeling of his warm hand in hers.

The group met up in the terminal. “Oh my God! I’m so excited!” Tess said, almost skipping to baggage, Maria and Isabel joined her and the guys hung back, taking their time.

“So, how much do you want to bet Isabel has this whole trip planned to the second?” Max laughed.

“Well, I’ll keep her distracted,” Michael smirked. The three men chuckled at him, and hoped to God he could. They all wanted to relax this Spring Break.

*********

Their hotel was amazing. It was a resort right on the beach, and the parents had ordered three rooms on the same floor. Michael and Isabel took one room. Max and Kyle took one, and Tess and Maria took the last of the rooms.

When they got settled in, they all changed into their bikinis and swimming trunks and decided to hit the beach before even unpacking.

Maria picked out her baby blue string bikini, and Tess put on the green one she had picked up before the trip. When they walked out on the beach, Isabel ran to them. “Damn, you guys look hot!” she said, not looking too bad herself in the hot pink bikini Maria had picked out for her.

When Kyle looked up, the only person in his line of vision was Maria. In all the time she’d been living with him, he’d never seen her in so few clothes. She was radiant. This was going to be a long week, but he wouldn’t have it any other way. He just hoped his trunks were not showing how aroused he was.

Maria was having much the same reaction as Kyle stood there in front of her, his chest bare and his trunks riding low on his hips. He looked good enough to eat. Looking at Max and Michael, she realized he really wasn’t built any better than either of them, but to her, he was perfect. There was something about him.

She took a few seconds to get her heart rate under control and then joined all of her friends lounging on the beach. Time for the fun to begin!

TBC…

Chapter 13

That first night, the group decided to go out to dinner at a nice restaurant. The girls all gathered in Maria and Tess’s room to get ready. “I’m glad I brought this dress,” Tess said, digging in her suitcase for her shoes.

“Yeah, I almost only brought bikinis and pajamas,” Isabel laughed. She had seemed to relax a little bit about the trip once they actually got to Jamaica. Before the trip she was planning everything down to the second, but now, the beach air seemed to mellow her out.

Maria stood in front of the mirror putting the finishing touches on her make up when there was knock on the door. “One sec!” Tess called out, knowing it was the guys. The girls finished up getting ready and opened the door to find Kyle, Michael, and Max looking damn fine.

They moved into the room, Michael moving in to kiss Isabel on the cheek. “You look gorgeous,” he said with a goofy grin. The group smiled at the couple. They were really cute together, and everyone knew that they were the only people in the world able to see either Michael or Isabel let down their walls and be vulnerable. It was an act that truly proved to Maria she was officially part of the group again.

It also stirred feelings of jealousy. Not really of Michael and Isabel, but more that they had each other, while the other four were single. But this was spring break, and they all had their own private desires, that just might be fulfilled this week.

*********

Maria tossed and turned in her bed that night. She couldn’t stop thinking about Kyle. What was wrong with her?!? Well, the fact that he had looked gorgeous didn’t help. The fact that he always found a way to touch her wasn’t good either. Or maybe it was good, but it wasn’t helping her situation.

She sighed to herself looking at the clock in between her and Tess’s bed. 3:30am. Tess had long since fallen asleep.

Maria knew she wasn’t going to be able to fall asleep until she relieved some of the sexual tension residing in her body. She looked at Tess one last time to make sure her friend was asleep. There would be nothing more embarrassing than being caught masturbating in the middle of the night.

She closed her eyes and envisioned Kyle in her mind. There was no use denying to herself that Kyle was what she wanted. She imagined him lying on the beach, smiling at her, that beautiful smile that he had. He was close to her in her mind; lingering a breath away from her, like he would kiss her. While this would never happen in real life, in her dreams Kyle did kiss her. He took his time but was forceful as he slipped his hot tongue into her mouth.

Maria flipped the comforter over her head and let her hands roam up and down her body, biting her bottom lip. Her little fantasy was making her wet already and it was just a simulated kiss.

She heard Kyle’s voice moaning in her head, as dream Kyle untied her bikini top, his beautiful mouth descended on her already hard nipples. His hands were all over her, moving to her bottoms.

Maria let her hand move down her stomach and slipped it into her panties. She felt her wet pussy, and had to hold back a moan as she pictured Kyle doing this to her instead. She rubbed herself softly and gently at first. But as the tension became too much, she sped up the pace.

Her eyes snapped shut and she bit her lip harder as she approached her orgasm. Her breath hitched, and she silently shuddered as her body quaked, her orgasm taking over. Images of Kyle kissing her and touching her flashed before her eyes.


Meanwhile in Max and Kyle’s room...


“Maria…” Kyle breathed, his breath coming out in pants, as he came into the hotel toilet. He couldn’t help it. After two hours of tossing and turning, he bit the bullet and fucked himself with his hand, in the bathroom, thinking of Maria. He should have been ashamed, and he might have been, if his desire wasn’t about to kill him.

He had to find a girl. Hey, it was Spring Break in Jamaica, and it wasn’t like he was ugly. He was supposed to have random hook-ups. The only thing was, the only person he really wanted to hook up with was Maria, and he knew he didn’t have a prayer with her. So, he needed to find someone, or many someones to take his mind off of her, at least for this trip. When he got back home, he didn’t know what he was going to do.

He cleaned himself up, and climbed back in bed, Max still sound asleep. He fell asleep quickly after that.

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

The next day, everyone hung out at the beach. The guys played some volleyball, not well, with some other guys they met in the hotel from Brazil. The girls laid out mostly, dipping in the ocean every once in a while to cool off.

Maria was roasting. Her skin was not used to the sun exposure and even with the SPF 50, she was getting a nice tan. She didn’t want to burn though. Isabel seemed to just get darker and darker, never burning, but with Tess’s pale skin, Maria figured she might be ready for a break as well.

“Okay, I’m gonna burn if I don’t take a break,” Maria laughed. “How about I make some lunch and you grab the guys in about 30 minutes,” she said to Isabel and Tess.

“I’ll join you,” Tess offered with a cheerful smile. The two skipped back to the room together. The group had gone to the open market a little further inland the previous day to get stuff for light lunches so they didn’t have to eat out all the time.

Maria and Tess prepared lunch quickly, and soon the others joined them. “I’m starving,” Max said, moving quickly into the room and flopping down on Tess’s bed. Michael and Isabel, wrapped in each other’s arms, sat on Maria’s bed, and Kyle took the chair by the wall. Maria and Tess handed out the sandwiches and they all dug in, famished from the drain of the sun.

“So, what is the game plan tonight?” Max asked, his mouth full.

“We should hit that club up the beach,” Tess said. “Apparently a lot of tourists hang out there.”

“That could be cool,” Kyle said, nonchalantly.

The whole group nearly choked. Everyone knew that Kyle hated clubs.

“What, I can have fun,” he said. Secretly, his plan was to meet a nice foreign girl that could get his mind off of Maria, who was standing way too close to him in a barely-there bikini at the moment.

The group just laughed at him. Maria wasn’t going to argue. Anywhere Kyle was, she was happy to be there. But tonight she was on a mission. Dance with as many guys as would dance with her. If she was going to make it through the week, she had to find something, or someone, to distract her from Kyle.


*********


The gang entered the club, booming with dance music, that night, and it was as if the whole room moved in slow motion. They walked in unison to the only table still open, and slid into their seats.

“Damn,” Isabel said with a grin. “This place is pretty cool.” It had a whole beach theme, and everyone in the club was wearing next to nothing. The guys in trunks from the beach and tank tops mostly, and the girls in various states of undress.

Kyle looked around the crowd, trying to pick out the girl he was going to hit on. None of them impressed him. Not that there were not some beautiful exotic women there, but no one was Maria. He sighed and said, “So, shall we hit the floor?”

Again, the group was surprised at his desire to be the first to hit the dance floor, but the girls were itching to dance, and Michael didn’t really have a choice so…

“I think I’ll sit here,” Max said with a smirk. He might dance, but it would take a little while.

Isabel and Tess rolled their eyes at him. “Can you watch our purses then?” Tess asked, already setting hers on the table. Max nodded and smiled. Purse patrol, that was his job.

On the way to the dance floor, Kyle locked eyes with this prettyish blond girl, who threw him a flirty smile. She looked as if she might have had a few drinks, but again, he wasn’t discriminating tonight.

Maria didn’t play that game though. She just joined Tess and Isabel in the middle of the floor, hoping that someone would join them. She had never done this before, seduced a guy. She didn’t even know if she was seductive. The truth was, she had never thought she was that attractive, and maybe she was right. That’s why it was crazy to believe that she could be good enough for Kyle.

Isabel and Tess fit right in. Isabel spent most of her time grinding against Michael, but she was definitely getting some looks from the guys around them. Looks that made Michael stare back with a menacing glare and pull Isabel closer to him. They were adorable. Maria wished she had that.

Tess and Maria danced together for a little while. Bumping and grinding against each other, just waiting for the first man to bite. Surprisingly, the first person to get that bite was Maria. She felt a hand on her back, and after flinching slightly in surprise, a smile spread across her lips as she turned around and found a very tall, dark, and handsome man grooving in front of her. He was attractive, but he was no Kyle. Oh well.

She smiled slightly at him, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear and looking down. She was flirting as best as she could, and apparently it was working because he smiled back, leaned in and asked, “I’m Marcus, wanna dance?”

She grinned and leaned in further saying, “I thought we already were.”

He chuckled lightly and took that to mean he could move in closer. He wrapped both arms around her waist and pulled her into him so that they were grinding against each other. Maria flung her arms around his neck and moved in sync with his body.

After a few dances, she said she had to go, and politely left the floor to grab a bottle of water. She sat down next to Max once she got it and sighed, “Still sitting here,” she asked, sipping on her bottle of water.

“Yeah,” Max chuckled. “Having a good time people watching. By the way, that guy you were dancing with looked crushed when you left him on the dance floor.” Max said.

“Well, when you’ve got it, you’ve got it.” Maria said, puffing her chest out with pride, but she broke into laughter too soon for her false bravado to be effective.

Max wasn’t inclined to argue. Maria was hot. Not his type, but very attractive. If she wanted to break some hearts, she wouldn’t have a problem. “Well, you better get out there.” Max said with a smile.

“Yeah, ok,” Maria said, finishing her water. “Have fun as a wallflower.” Maria joked.

This time, on her way to the dance floor she was approached but another guy. His name was Chris, and he was from Puerto Rico. She accepted his offer to dance with a smile, and they began moving to the music.

She turned around in his arms and threw her head back, moving against him, as she laid his hands on her hips. It should have been a sexy dance, but she was missing something, someone.

She opened her eyes, and looked into the crowd. That’s when she saw it. Kyle was there, dancing with some bottle blonde. But that wasn’t it. His lips were pressed against the bitch’s neck. Maria’s mouth dropped open just as Kyle looked in her direction.

He wanted to punch the ass hole that was dancing with her. He was touching her and holding her, and he didn’t deserve her. But he didn’t get a chance to process another thought as Maria turned around, said something to the guy she was with and moved quickly back to the table.

He followed her with his eyes, the drunk girl he was with still hanging all over him, and saw her talk to Max, grab her purse, and then leave. He didn’t know what was wrong, but if that guy had hurt her he would kill him.

He quickly dislodged himself from what’s-her-names grip and moved over to Max. “What happened? Where did Maria go?” Kyle asked.

Max stared at him amused. Kyle was so transparent. “She said she didn’t feel good, and went back to the hotel.” Max said with a shrug.

“K, I’m gonna go check on her,” Kyle said, not even giving Max a chance to respond.

Maria ran out of the club as quickly as she could. She had to get away. She…she didn’t know what she had to do, but she knew she definitely couldn’t stay at the club and watch Kyle with some other girl. Some girl that didn’t deserve him.

Kyle followed her closely, but she didn’t seem to notice, lost in her own thoughts, tears streaming down her cheeks and smearing her makeup.

She ran directly to her room, needing time to herself. Time to cry this out. If one thing had become clear to her, it was that her feelings for Kyle were definitely not fleeting. But before she could shut the door, Kyle’s arm stopped her.

She looked at him in surprise, ashamed of her tears. “Maria, what’s wrong?” Kyle asked, panicked at the look on her face. She looked, broken.

TBC…

Chapter 14

Kyle was panicked, trying to wrack his brain for possible reasons for Maria’s emotional state. He moved into the room, and shut the door behind him. ‘I’m fine, Kyle.” She said, sniffling. “I’ve just got a head ache.”

“Come on, Maria,” Kyle scoffed. “You and I both know that you aren’t crying over a head ache.”

“Just leave me alone, Kyle.” Maria said, still not facing him. He didn’t know what was going on. She was never this hostile to him, even when he deserved it.

He moved closer to her, and placed both hands on her shoulders. “Maria, why are you mad at me?” he asked, turning her around to face him. She didn’t make eye contact with him, though. She was ashamed, and hurt, and she couldn’t bare to look him in the eye. She didn’t have a right to be mad at him, really. He could do what he wanted. They weren’t together. In his mind they were just like brother and sister, probably.

“I’m not mad,” she said, faking a smile that he wasn’t believing. Her eyes were still watery, but she was looking at him now. There was something in her eyes that he couldn’t quite put his finger on, but he had never noticed it before.

She was just looking at him, her beautiful face wet with tears and he couldn’t stop himself from leaning into her. He felt her breath quicken against his lips as they were inches apart. He knew this time and place was completely inappropriate, but he couldn’t help it. He leaned in the extra distance and as his lips brushed against hers, he heard her gasp before giving in to his kiss.

Maria’s mind was reeling. She couldn’t believe she was standing in her hotel room, kissing Kyle. Right after he’d been making out with that…that blond bitch. At the thought, she pulled away. “Don’t you have to get back to that girl?” she asked, not even trying to mask the hurt in her voice.

Kyle’s eyes widened in realization. “Is that why you ran out of the club?” he asked.

“It’s ok,” Maria said, “I understand. You just wanted to make me feel better. But I don’t you’re your pity.” She assured him, sitting down on the bed and avoiding eye contact at all costs.

Kyle shook his head, trying to regain his senses. What the hell just happened? He had initiated it and he didn’t even know. All he could tell was that, Maria was jealous of that girl in the club, which was stupid because she girl couldn’t hold a candle to Maria. And that Maria had wanted the kiss they shared as much as he did. Maybe he got it all wrong. Maybe Maria liked him. Though after the royal ass he had made of himself tonight, he didn’t know why.

He sighed and sat down next to Maria on the bed. He was taking a leap of faith, and he hoped it wouldn’t get his ass kicked. “Maria look at me,” he said softly as he brought his hand up to her face and lifted it, turning her face toward his.

She reluctantly opened her eyes and looked into his. If she wasn’t mistaken, she could see desire there. “That girl,” Kyle started, “Was simply a substitute for you.” He said, and before he could get her reaction he pulled her to him, capturing her lips in his.

Maria was caught off guard for a moment, but the minute she felt Kyle’s tongue touch her lips, she returned the kiss, opening her mouth to allow him entrance. She ran her fingers through his hair and reveled in the feel of his strong hands on her back.

As they parted for breath, she looked into Kyle’s eyes, silently questioning him. “What was that?” she asked, still unsure of his true feelings.

“I…” he started, unsure of how to tell her that he’d wanted her since the first time they talked after she moved in. “I like you, Maria. I don’t want to make things awkward between us because, well, I just got you back. But the truth is, that I like you, and I have for a while. When I was dancing with that girl, I was just trying to forget about you for a little while.” He said.

Maria’s mouth hung open in shock, as she searched his eyes. There was nothing but truth and insecurity there. “Oh my god,” she said, almost laughing. “I like you too,” she said, laughing at how stupid it sounded when she said it out loud. “I have for a while now,” she admitted.

“That’s why I ran out of the club. I saw you with that girl, and I just freaked, you know? I mean I don’t have the opportunity to be jealous at home, ‘cause you never date anyone.” She laughed.

“Oh,” Kyle said, feeling stupid. Had he only known, he wouldn’t have given that dippy blond the time of day. “Trust me, I wasn’t having fun with her.” He said. “We’re you having fun with those guys on the dance floor.” He asked before he could stop himself.

Maria laughed out loud at that. ‘NO!” she cried. “I was doing the same as you. I just wanted to hook up with someone to get you out of my head.” She couldn’t believe she was being so upfront with Kyle about all of this. Usually she wouldn’t but Kyle still was her friend more than anything.

“Wow,” Kyle said, moving closer to Maria. “So…” he said, as a thick silence settled over them. Maria couldn’t take it anymore. They liked each other. It was mutual. She wanted him. She moved in and attacked his mouth, this time kissing him deep and passionate.

Kyle responded immediately. He pulled Maria against him until she straddled his waist for comfort. She moaned as his tongue messaged hers. She had never felt anything like this before. Sure, she had masturbated, but that was all simulated sexuality. She had never been held by a man. Never been kissed like this.

Kyle was in heaven. Maria was finally in his arms. Since his crush on her in Jr. High, to his ass hole behavior in high school, to his falling for her all over again, he’d come to this point. His hands moved up and down Maria’s back, finding bare skin where he shirt didn’t cover her. It was enough to make him grunt as his jeans became too tight for comfort.

Maria played with the hem of Kyle’s shirt, tugging it up. Kyle grinned and pulled the shirt off for her, noticing her struggles. Maria’s hands immediately went to the bare flesh that was now exposed, exploring Kyle in a way she had seen but never touched. She’d never touched anyone like this. She suddenly felt embarrassed at her lack of experience. Kyle probably had a lot. He sure could kiss like a pro. What if she wasn’t such a good kisser?

She pulled back on instinct. Kyle looked up at her and noticed that Maria looked uncomfortable again. “What’s wrong?” he asked, his voice thick with desire.

Maria smiled shyly at him and said, “I just. I don’t have much, or really any, experience with this. Am I…am I a bad kisser?” she asked, chuckling at herself.

Kyle looked at her like she had grown two heads. “Ummm, are you kidding me?” he asked incredulously. Instead of answering, he pulled her roughly to him and kissed the breath out of her.

“I guess that’s a no,” she laughed, feeling more confident. As Kyle’s mouth moved down her neck, she through her head back and moaned. His tongue was breathing fire on her tender skin.

His hands were working up slowly under her shirt, and as he reached the bottom of her breasts, she jumped nearly out of his arms. She looked at him embarrassed. “Sorry,” she said, not making eye contact.

“Don’t be sorry,” he said, pulling her into him again.

“I’m just not…ready.” She said. “I want to be, but I…” she couldn’t finished. The skeletons in her closet were not completely behind her after all.

Kyle felt like a true ass. “Oh, baby,” he said. “I’m sorry.” He kissed her cheek. “I shouldn’t have…” he said.

“It’s ok,” Maria said. “I’ll be ready one day…soon probably.” She laughed as she cocked an eyebrow at him suggestively. “I mean, if you want to…” she said.

“Oh yeah, I want to,” Kyle answered. “So, you want to be with me, then?” he asked.

“Yeah.” Maria said. “I don’t know how your dad will react. I don’t want to upset him because he’s done so much for me. But I can’t deny the fact that I think we have something between us.” She said.

“I know what you mean.” Kyle said, “Dad will understand. I know it. He will just watch us like a hawk,” he laughed.

“So, I guess we are boyfriend/girlfriend?” Maria chuckled at the question.

“What do you think?” Kyle asked, kissing her hard.

“Mmm, good answer,” Maria said.

“We’ll I better get back to my room. We can tell the other’s tomorrow. But I’m too tired tonight and they will probably be back soon.” Kyle said.

“Ok,” Maria said, disappointed, but she understood. “Can I kiss you one more time?” she asked, sheepishly.

Kyle didn’t answer, instead, he kissed her softly and sweetly. “I’m never going to get sick of this,” Maria breathed.

“Me either.” Kyle said with a smile. It took all the strength he had to pull away from her and leave the room that night, but when he got back he collapsed on the bed with a smile on his face. What a strange, exciting, perfect night.

Maria felt basically the same. Kyle liked her. They were together. It was amazing. Her head was spinning from his kisses when just an hour ago, she was crying because he was with some other girl. Life was weird. But she loved every minute of it at this moment.

TBC…

Chapter 15

The whole group looked at Kyle and Maria with smirks on their face. “What?” Maria asked, indignity. They had just told the others about their realizing their feelings for each other and that was the reaction we got.

‘What did you think we were blind?” Isabel asked. “You two were as bad as me and Michael before we got together.” She laughed.

The rest of the group nodded in agreement.

“Well, okay then,” Maria said with a chuckle as she looked at Kyle. Isabel and Tess were beaming at them, Max was giving them a knowing smile, and Michael just seemed to be happy for them.

“So, now let hit the beach.” Isabel finally said after a thick silence fell across the room.

At the beach, things were different, and Maria and Kyle both had to admit, they were different for the better. They were a couple now, as cheesy as that sounded, and that meant that could hold, touch, and kiss one another in broad daylight. They were like Isabel and Michael, who they had envied only yesterday, and they loved it.

Tess and Max sat on beach chairs watching their friends interact. “They are so happy,” Tess said, almost dreamily.

“I know,” Max said, “If anyone deserves this, it’s Kyle and Maria.”

“Yeah, it just makes me kind of lonely,” Tess sighed. She couldn’t believe she had said that out loud, but Max was one of her best friends, so it wasn’t like he was going to judge her.

“I know what you mean,” Max returned. “I mean, I broke up with Liz because I wasn’t in love with her, but it was kind of nice having someone around, you know?”

“Yeah, I know.” Tess said looking up at him. She hadn’t been on a date in a few months, herself. She didn’t want to waste her time on boys that were not going to amount to anything, and in Roswell, that was about all you got. Except Max, Michael, and Kyle, and two of them were already taken.

Isabel and Michael were building a sand castle on the beach together. They knew it was corny, but it was fun, and they felt like kids again. Though Michael never really got the full kid experience, so he was sort of making up for it as a teenager.

“You looked really beautiful last night,” he said, rounding out a dome on top of the castle. He knew he was head-over-heels for this girl when he actually said things like that.

Isabel smiled brightly at him. “Thank you,” she said, almost blushing, though Isabel Evans never truly blushed.

“So, what do you think about Kyle and Maria?” Michael asked.

“I’m ecstatic.” Isabel said, animatedly. “She’s been through so much. I always wondered what it would have been like if Maria and Kyle did actually get together. I guess now we get to find out. I just hope everything works out for them. Maria and Kyle have been through so much as it is.” Isabel explained.

“Yeah,” Michael said, “Though, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t worry about her.”

“Why?” Isabel asked, confused.

“Well,” Michael started, trying to think of the best way to say what he meant without coming off harsh. “You all were best friends in Jr. High, and then you turned on her in high school, for reasons no one has ever really explained to me.” Isabel started to interrupted but he smiled and put his hand up to stop her. “And now, you are all friends again. Kyle has fallen back into his crush, and who is to say he won’t turn on her again?” Michael explained.

Isabel knew it was a legit concern, but the thought had not, honestly, crossed her mind. She couldn’t even imagine life without Maria again. “I don’t think that is going to happen.” Isabel said. “Look, we’ve all grown up a lot. Think about yourself. You used to join us in ridiculing her and you didn’t even know her. But we aren’t children anymore. We have brought Maria into our group as adults now, and I don’t think any of us would have the ability to go back to hating her for no reason.” She sighed and looked down as she continued. “Look, I have no excuse for my behavior over the last three years, none of us do. But we love Maria now, and I think we owe it to Kyle and Maria to let them see this through.”

She had a point, but Michael was still worried. He decided to drop the subject, though, because he really was not in the mood to fight with Isabel on their romantic trip to Jamaica.

Kyle and Maria were in the water. They were sort of wading in about hip deep. Kyle had his arms around Maria from behind and she was leaning back against him. “This is so nice,” Kyle said, kissing the top of her head.

“I know,’ Maria replied quietly. She couldn’t believe it. She was in Kyle’s arms and he was holding her like she was the most precious thing in his life. She thought she might need to pinch herself to see if she was dreaming. But if this was dream, she sure as hell did not want to wake up.

“What are you thinking?” Kyle asked, taking a few steps back, so they were in shallow enough water to sit down. He pulled her into his lap and she smiled up at him.

“I’m thinking about how in five months my life has completely turned around.” Maria said, with a smile. “I got you back as a friend, and now…well now, something else, maybe even better. I have a home that I don’t have to be scared to go to. Your dad truly cares about me like a parent. I’ve got good grades. I’m applying to college. I’ve got great friends. I’ve got everything anyone could ever want.” Maria said, tears stinging the corners of her eyes.

“Don’t cry, baby.” Kyle said, kissing the tip of her nose.

“I’m just really happy.’ Maria said, letting a few tears fall.

“Me too,” Kyle replied kissing her neck and pulling her into a tight embrace.

Maria looked up at him. “I’m sorry about last night,” she said, looking into his eyes.

“Why would you be sorry about last night?” Kyle asked. Last night, when they got together, finally, was possibly the best night of his life.

“About pushing you away.” Maria explained looking down at her hands. “It’s just going to take me a little while to get used to this,” she explained.

“Don’t you dare apologize for that.” Kyle said, pulling her chin up to look at him. His eyes told her he was serious. “I’m sorry for moving too fast. I should have known better, but I’ve just wanted you for so long I wasn’t thinking. We can go at whatever speed you are comfortable with.” He said, his eyes softening as he smiled at her.

“There’s one other thing,” Maria said, biting her lip. Could she tell him? She knew she could tell him anything, but she didn’t want to hurt him. Honestly was the most important thing though, so she took a deep breath and said, “The reason I’m a little uncomfortable has mostly to do with what I went through with my mom and Marco.” Maria said. Kyle held her tight. “But there is a tiny part of me that is afraid to trust you again, completely.” She admitted.

Kyle cocked his head to the side and sighed. He’d have been lying if that thought didn’t cross his mind. It wasn’t like he could blame her. “Maria, I understand that. If there was one thing I could change in my life, it would be the way I treated you. I can’t give you a good reason for why I did it. I guess I just took you for granted. I thought you would always be there and I wanted to be cool more than I wanted you as a friend when I was 14.” He was being honest and she appreciated that. “Then when you just seemed to give up caring what we said, I thought I had lost the old Maria. I just shut off the emotions to you. That’s how I did what I did. When you came back into my life, and when I began to see the old Maria again, mixed with this new, confident and sexy, Maria, I fell in love with you all over again.” Kyle said.

“One thing I can say though,” Kyle added, taking her hands in his, “We can go as slow as you want, but I will never do what I did to you again. I couldn’t now. Even if a relationship between us doesn’t work, you are still my friend for life.” Kyle promised.

Maria pulled him into her arms and hugged him tight. “Thank you, Kyle.” She said. She felt like she finally got a little closure on that situation. She’d forgive them all but, she never truly let go and totally let her guard down. Now she could. She knew that they made mistakes, and just because they were stupid at 14 didn’t mean they were stupid at 18. Speaking of which…

“So, you know my birthday is coming up,” she said, changing the subject to a lighter topic.

Kyle smiled at her. “Yeah, you old hag,” he said. “I’m going to be illegal for a whole month to you.” He laughed.

“Well, what can I say? Just call me Mrs. Robinson.” Maria giggled.

*********

The week was coming to an end much too soon for the gang. Tomorrow they would have to leave and go back to boring old Roswell. Sigh! On the other hand, the week in Jamaica brought the whole group closer together.

Tess and Max spent a lot of time together, being the only two single ones now. Isabel and Michael got really close too. And of course, Maria and Kyle were a lot closer, which brought them to a little problem. “I want to tell your dad,” Maria said, lying next to Kyle on her hotel room bed, her head on his chest. “He’s done so much for me, and I wouldn’t want to break his trust.” She explained.

Kyle sighed and nodded. “I know.” He said. He’d never been one to talk to his dad about his relationships, and he was pretty sure Jim was just as happy to not hear about it, but Maria was right. They couldn’t hide this. It would be like lying, and he didn’t want to lie to his dad. He knew Maria wouldn’t be able to. That was one of the things he loved about her. She was so noble, even when she probably shouldn’t be.

“Ok, so we are on the same page,” Maria smiled, looking up at him. He couldn’t say no to that face even if he wanted to.

“I can’t believe this is our last night,” Tess sighed as she entered the room, the rest of the group in tow.

“I know,” Maria groaned. “I’m so not ready to go back to school.”

“Don’t say that evil, evil word.” Isabel laughed, dramatically falling down on Maria’s bed.

“So, what’s the game plan tonight?” Max asked.

“Let’s do dinner and a movie.” Tess said. It was what they did in Roswell, but the truth was, they had to get up early in the morning to catch their flight, and all the sun was starting to get to them.

Before everyone left to get ready, Tess pulled Maria aside. She grinned brightly at her. “So, I’m going to stay in Max’s room tonight.” She said with a wink.

“Are you…” Maria asked, eyes growing wide.

‘NO!” Tess laughed. “I just thought you and Kyle might want the room to yourselves for the night.” Tess explained.

Maria grinned at her and nodded. “Ok,” she said. “That would be nice.”

Tess giggled and began getting dressed.

**********

Kyle couldn’t get Maria to the room fast enough. He knew that it was way too soon to expect anything from her, but he just wanted to be alone with her for one more night because it was likely that his father would thwart all ability to be alone in the future once he found out there were together.

Maria giggled as he slammed the hotel door behind them and immediately attacked her mouth with his. The giggling halted immediately as Kyle found a sensitive spot on her neck. “Oh God!” she moaned, throwing her head back to give Kyle more access to the tender flesh of her neck.

Kyle smiled against her skin, happy with the reaction he was receiving from her. “Can…can we…” Maria started, but she couldn’t quite get her words out with him kissing her like that.

Kyle pulled away and looked at her. “Yes?” he asked, a self-satisfied smirk on his face.

“Can we move to the bed,” Maria asked. It wasn’t an invitation for something more, and Kyle knew this, Maria just wasn’t sure her legs could hold her up any longer.

“Come here,” Kyle said, taking her hand in his and leading her to the bed. They lay down and faced each other. Kyle ran his hands through her hair and Maria smiled at the sensation. “I wish it could always be like this,” Kyle said.

“It can be,” Maria said with a smile. After all she had been through, it still amazed Kyle that she could be such a hopeless romantic.

Kyle chuckled, “Yeah, wait until dad puts us on opposite sides of the house.”

Maria smiled at Kyle and ran her delicate fingers over his cheek. “Do you really want to keep this from him?” she asked. “Because if you want to hide this, we can.” She really didn’t want to, but she also didn’t want to push Kyle into something that he wasn’t ready for. Not to mention a little part of her still worried that he might not want people at school know they were together.

Kyle pulled her close, so close she was almost breathless and kissed her cheek. “No, I don’t want to hide this, baby.” He said looking her in the eyes. “I just don’t want my dad to flip.”

“Do you think he will?” Maria asked. She didn’t want Jim to flip either. He had done so much for her and she didn’t want to betray his trust.

Kyle thought for a minute. “I really don’t know. I’ve never discussed my love life with him. I know he cares about you a great deal. He will probably be mad at me more than you.” He laughed.

“We’ll just tell him right when we get home. It will be like ripping off a band-aid.” Maria said, wrapping her arms around Kyle and snuggling close to him.

“Ok,” Kyle said. “But how about we don’t talk about my dad anymore tonight?” He laughed.

“What would you rather talk about?” Maria said, cocking an eyebrow at him. Kyle nearly growled and attacked her with kisses once again.

***********

Maria, Kyle, Isabel, Michael, Tess, and Max exited the plane the next day, already missing Jamaica. But things were looking better. Isabel and Michael got a lot closer over the week they spent at the beach. Max and Tess found a friendship that was much closer than before they ventured to Jamaica. And obviously Maria and Kyle’s relationship took a turn for the better. There was still three months of school, and things looked like they were going to be ok.

“Mom!” Isabel called when they got to baggage claim. Max and Isabel ran to greet their parents as Michael followed close behind. Kyle and Maria smiled as they spotted Jim. Tess didn’t see her dad there, so she went to greet Jim while she waited.

“Hey kids!” Jim greeted with a big smile as he pulled all three of them into a tight hug. “You’re dad is away on business,” he informed Tess, “So, I thought you could spend the night with us.”

Tess smiled and thanked him, but Maria couldn’t help but notice the sadness in Tess’s eyes. Maria didn’t think she could love Jim any more at that moment. She knew that Tess’s dad wasn’t around much. He was always away on “business” and she knew that hurt Tess, even if she never would admit it to anyone. Jim was covering for her dad. He would protect any one of them with his life.

Meanwhile, Kyle was controlling the urge to touch Maria the way he wanted to as they sat in the back of Jim’s SUV. Maybe since Tess was spending the night, they could put off talking to his dad and he and Maria could have one more night to themselves.