Roswell Fanatics

Chapter 11


Alex had a distinct feeling of déjà vu as he made his way inside the Crashdown. It had only been 24hrs earlier that he had stepped through the very same doors and he had already begun praying for a different outcome this time round. Yesterday had proven to be an evening of monumental revelations to say the least. They had all partaken in the same event, namely Alex’s meal with Cindy, but for very different reasons. Cindy’s reasons were duplicitous and selfish, Alex’s reasons were purely innocent & sincere while Isabel’s were of revenge and loyalty, loyalty to Alex that is.

He became conscious that he was aping the events of yesterday while he approached Maria as she wiped down the counter top and Alex breathed a heavy sigh of relief when the young waitress finally broke the repeating pattern by speaking to her best friend. “Looking sharp Alex, do you have a date per chance?” She joked with a broad smile.

“As it happens I do.” Alex replied, sliding onto a stool at the far end of the counter opposite his friend. “I’m just hoping and praying that it goes better than yesterday.”

“I think there’s little doubt of that.” Maria said, comforting her anxious looking companion while fixing him a drink. “Drink this,” Maria placed a glass containing orange soda in front of Alex. “James Bond has his Martini, shaken and not stirred when he’s out on a date so we should make it a tradition that Alex Whitman has his orange soda, on the rocks.”

Alex smiled broadly at his friend as he was aware she was just trying to keep him relaxed before his epic date. “I appreciate the effort Maria but I think the world’s most famous fictional spy has little to fear when it comes to me. I doubt it will ever catch on in the same way. I mean ‘Orange soda on the rocks’ doesn’t quite have the same ring to it as ‘Martini…shaken not stirred’.”

“That’s probably what they said about all those different types of coffee but I bet the guy who owns Starbucks is laughing all the way to the bank.” Maria smiled. “Either way I’ll be able to tell my grand kids that I was there.”

“There?” Alex frowned. “There…where?”

Maria feigned exasperation as she dropped her cloth on the counter. “That I was there…at Alex and Isabel’s first date. When we’re both old and grey surrounded by our children and our children’s children I will be able to say I remember that night as though it was yesterday.”

“Our children?” Alex went wide-eyed.

“Not ‘our’ children you pea brain.” Maria swatted at Alex with her cloth. “I mean ‘our’ children as in collectively. You with yours, me with mine and Liz with her tribe.”

“Wow.” Was all Alex could think to say. “You see us all with children and grandchildren?”

“Its not something I think about all the time but with some of the things that I see going on around here I try to stay positive so the idea that we will all make it to old age and be surrounded by children is about as positive as I can make it.” Maria explained.

Alex looked at Maria for a moment. “That’s actually a really beautiful thought Maria.” He admitted. “I’ve never really considered it myself but now that you have planted the seed in my mind I’m sure it will all that I think about for days to come.”

“Think about what for days to come?” Liz echoed as she stepped out from the back room. “Hey Alex. I didn’t mean to intrude I just caught the tail end of your conversation and you have me interested. Nice threads by the way.”

“Don’t look at me.” Alex threw his hands up into a defensive position. “It’s Maria who is having these maternal thoughts and making me all teary eyed.”

“Oh please!” Maria sent her gaze skywards. “You say one thing and it all gets blown out of proportion.”

Liz could see she wasn’t going to get an explanation from Maria so she turned to Alex with a questioning look. “Maria just said in passing that she hoped we would all be about in our old age, surrounded by our families, recounting stories with one another.”

Liz furrowed her brow for a moment, apparently deep in thought. “Actually I don’t think I could come up with a nice thought than that if I tried, well done Maria.” Liz smiled at her friends.

Maria looked at her two friends in disbelief. “I only said…I just meant…I didn’t mean for it to…Oh just forget it!” Maria moved round the counter and started to bus tables.

“It’s too easy sometimes.” Alex smirked as he watched Maria storm off.

“You shouldn’t be mean to her.” Liz reprimanded her tall friend. “Especially when you know her words are coming straight from the heart, it’s not like you to say such things.”

Alex’s head dropped as the guilty feeling washed over him. He hadn’t intended to be mean, he was only joking. Now that he thought about it though he could see what Liz meant. Maria wore her heart on her sleeve most of the time but she rarely opened herself up so completely, only in front of her two closest friends. Making fun of what she had said, even if he hadn’t meant to be malicious, wasn’t a very nice thing to do and the regret of what he had said was already eating away at him.

Sliding off his stool Alex moved slowly down the diner until he reached the table at which Maria was busy clearing away plates.

“I’m sorry.” He said softly causing Maria to spin round and look at him. “It really wasn’t my intention to be mean and I wasn’t making fun of you despite how it may have looked. I meant it when I said it was a beautiful thing you said.”

“Yeah well.” Maria dropped her gaze, clearly uncomfortable with Alex’s heartfelt apology.

Alex took a gentle hold on Maria’s hand and pulled her towards the back where Liz was standing, watching. Once he came within easy reach of Liz he took hold of her hand as well and looked from one friend to the other and back again. “I haven’t quite looked far enough ahead to think about children or grandchildren but the one thing I have done was look forward enough to know I want you both in my life.” Alex was trying to repay Maria’s earlier honesty with some open hearted comments of his own. “I read somewhere that friends are simply family that you get to choose. Just so we’re clear…I choose both of you, now and always.”

Maria lifted her head slowly to look at Alex, the tears were evident in her eyes. “You see what you did?” She questioned. “I’m going to have to go and sort out my make up now you big lump.”

The three friends stood in silence for a moment before Alex pulled his petit friends into a hug. Before Alex let go of his hold on both girls he felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up and a fluttering sensation suddenly appeared in his stomach. A few seconds later the sound of soft footsteps approached and came to a halt behind where the three friends were standing. “Is this something I should feel jealous about?”

The young friends leapt apart and turned to see the smiling face of Isabel Evans standing before them. “Of course if it was anyone other than Maria and Liz I might feel a little insecure but knowing that neither of my friends see you in the way that I do means I’ll put what I have just seen down to good old fashioned friendship. I do like you Alex but finding you in the arms of two beautiful young women on our first date is pushing even my commitment.”

Alex flushed a furious red as he stammered for an explanation. “This wasn’t what it looked like…”

“You weren’t just giving your best pals a comforting hug?” Isabel questioned.

“Oh!” Alex let slip in surprise at Isabel’s comment. “In that case it was exactly what it looked like.”

“Alex, Isabel is messing with you.” Liz explained to her tall friend. “You’re going to have to learn to read when Isabel is serious and when she is only kidding otherwise you’re going to give yourself a heart attack by the time you’re twenty-five.”

First Liz and then Maria stepped forward and gave Isabel a quick hug. “Go easy on him, he’s waited years for this night.” Liz whispered to her Amazonian friend. “You look stunning by the way.” Maria added when she pulled back.

Isabel gave her friends a smile and a silent nod in reply to their request before turning her attention back to Alex. Maria made a quick escape into the back and Liz busied herself behind the counter leaving the young couple to themselves.


“You look incredible!” Was all Alex could manage when he finally focused on what Isabel was wearing.

Isabel’s immaculate features broke out into a triumphant smile. “Thank you, I hoped you would like the dress.”

“Oh I do.” Alex enthused. “You always look good in red.”

“Do I?” Isabel asked, feigning surprise. “Well I only wear red for a select group of people, when I’m really looking to impress.”

“Oh right.” Alex tried not to look crestfallen at the thought that there was a ‘group’ of people that Isabel dressed for.

Isabel watched Alex’s face, reading his mind effortlessly. “Of course that group contains you…” She held up one finger, ready to count off the list of members to her exclusive group. “And then there’s…” Isabel paused for a moment as though deep in thought. “No,” She shook her head. “It’s just you.” She smiled broadly as the look of understanding slowly broke across Alex’s face.

“You wore that dress for me?” Alex asked softly.

“Of course, silly. Who else would I get all dressed up for?” Isabel linked hands with Alex and moved the two of them along the diner until they found the exact same booth that Alex had sat at the day before with Cindy. “I think we’ll sit here.” Isabel said resolutely as she released her grip on Alex and slid into the booth.

Alex followed Isabel’s example and slid onto the seat opposite his date. He was still reeling from the fact that Isabel had told him that she had dressed specifically for him. Of course anyone could look over at his date and see how beautiful and sexy she looked but it was nothing in comparison to when Alex looked at her. She had dressed while thinking solely of him. She only had eyes for him and it was clear Isabel was no longer going to push him away.

“Are you OK sweetie?” Isabel asked, pulling Alex out of his daze. “You look a little lost.”

Alex felt his confidence soar as he sat opposite the woman he desired more than any other. “Oh I’m not lost.” He said with conviction. “I’m exactly where I want to be.”

“That’s good to know.” Isabel said seductively. “But if you ever do feel a little lost just let me know and I’ll bring you home safely.”

“I’ll remember that.” Alex fought the urge to go all shy, trying to force himself to appear both confident and self-assured. “That means we will be looking out for one another from now on. I like the sound of that.”

“Me too.” She agreed. “Shall we look at the menu?”

Alex quickly grabbed a couple of menus and offered one to Isabel. As he perused the selection he felt his confidence growing. “I had a beautiful waitress last night recommend the clams but I can’t quite seem to find them on the menu.” Alex lifted his eyes slightly to peer over the menu he had been hiding behind and was glad to see his little game was having the desired affect, Isabel was blushing.

When Isabel’s eyes lifted they were greeted by the gleaming gaze of her date and he was clearly enjoying his little subterfuge. “I think I deserve credit for both thinking on my feet and for finding such apt metaphors. I didn’t think I would get the required effect if I mentioned burgers or fries so shrimps and clams it was. I simply prayed Cindy didn’t call my bluff but I was reasonably sure she didn’t know the menu in here so I was on relatively safe ground.”

“Well I must compliment you on your ingenuity. I wouldn’t have expected anything less from someone as bright and intelligent as you but it was still pretty impressive.” Alex complimented Isabel. “At the time I was still trying to work out how I was going to rebuff Cindy’s advances without offending her.”

“Trust me.” Isabel’s look suddenly became serious. “It was never going to get that far!”

“Why Isabel,” Alex pretended to be shocked. “You’re not telling me you were jealous are you?”

Isabel narrowed her eyes to give Alex a stern look. “Just because I told you last night that I was jealous and I have since made known my feelings for you it doesn’t mean you can get all over confident and smug.” Alex suddenly felt a little less self-assured. “It might be against every fibre of my being to hurt you now but don’t forget I am good friends with Liz and Maria. One word from me telling them that you were being mean to me and Maria will be on you like a flash.” Alex felt only slightly better when Isabel gave him a mischievous smile at the end of her thinly veiled threat.

“Hey guys what can I get you?” Liz asked as she arrived with her order pad at the ready.

“After you.” Alex nodded towards Isabel.

“I’ll have a side salad, a plain hamburger and a cherry coke, please.” Isabel flipped the menu closed.

“Is that all?” Liz enquired. “Can’t I get you anything else?”

“That should be plenty.” Isabel smiled. “Besides if I’m still hungry I’ll just steal some of Alex’s fries.”

Alex looked shocked. “And what makes you think I’m having fries?” Isabel simply gave her date a nonplussed look and folded her arms across her chest. It was then that Alex noticed that Liz had done the same. “Am I that transparent and predictable?” Alex didn’t know whether to laugh or cry when both girls nodded. “In that case I’ll have my usual please.” He said closing the menu and placing it in the holder.

“Coming right up.” Liz smiled before turning away to give in her order and collect the drinks.

Alex and Isabel looked silently at one another with a slight smile on each of their faces, totally comfortable with one another.

“Did they see the note?” Isabel asked softly.

Alex leaned forward and nodded. “They didn’t see what was in it though. I just told them that you asked me out on a date.”

Isabel aped Alex’s stance and leaned forward. “So they don’t know what we have planned?”

He smiled triumphantly. “Nope.” Alex checked his watch. “It’s nearly six-thirty.”

“Good.” Isabel reached across the table and took hold of Alex’s hand. “They’ll be here any minute.”


To be continued…

Chapter 12


Max pulled the jeep to a halt and turned off the engine.

“Have you ever seen groundhog day?” Michael questioned in Max’s ear.

Max frowned, turning to his friend. “What?”

“I said…” Michael emphasised each word slowly. “…have you seen ground hog day?”

“The film with Bill Murray?” Without waiting for an answer Max started nodding. “Of course. In fact didn’t me, you and Isabel see it at the cinema?”

“Focus Maxwell!” Michael exclaimed. “That’s not my point.”

Max shrugged. “Then why don’t you tell me what your point is exactly.”

“My point is that here we are again! Outside the Crashdown, just about to go in.” Michael explained. “It’s like Bill Murray in groundhog day…repeating the same events over and over again!”

Max paused for a long moment, looking at his friend before speaking. “What’s up with you Michael? I know you’re tetchy at the best of times but you seem to be more on edge than ever.”

“I just don’t understand that if we are supposed to be taking a step back and removing ourselves from their vicinity, why are we always coming here…putting temptation in our way?” Michael frowned. “You and Isabel are always telling me I’m the one who needs to work on his social skills but how am I supposed to learn when first Isabel and now you do such contradictory actions?”

“Contradictory actions?” Max echoed. “What do you mean?”

“Well first of all there’s Isabel who seems to have had some kind of epiphany when it comes to Alex. She’s clearly given it a great deal of thought and has come to a decision, which she is now acting on despite many years of keeping people, and especially boys, at arms length.” Max could only sit and nod in agreement. “Then there’s you. You’re the first one to break ranks and risk our being found out by saving Liz that day in the Crashdown.” Max went to speak but Michael cut him off. “I know…I know. You had to save her and I’m not judging you but what I don’t understand is why save her…only to then walk away?”

Max couldn’t help but smile slightly. “So let me get this straight. Are you telling me you agree with Isabel? That we should forget this timeout and move forward with Liz and Maria?”

“Maria!” Michael exclaimed. “Who the hell mentioned Maria?”

Max couldn’t stop a laugh escaping his lips upon hearing Michael’s outburst. “I think if we were a couple of girls now would be the point when I would say you are living in denial Michael.”

Max began climbing out of the car so Michael followed. “Oh don’t you start Maxwell. It’s all I hear from Isabel these days. ‘You know you like her, I see it’, ‘Ask her out, she likes you’. Why does everyone think I have a thing for Maria Deluca?”

Max turned to look at his big friend. “What’s the first thing you think about it the morning? What’s the last thing you think about at night? When you let your mind wander in the middle of the day, where does it go? And finally, when you do something you’re proud of or when you feel happy…who do you want to share it with?” Max watched as his friend remained silent, clearly thinking about his words. “If the answer to any and all of those questions is Maria Deluca then welcome to our world, mine and Isabel’s. From what she said earlier about how she feels about Alex I would say it is how I have felt about Liz since the first day I laid eyes on her. Looking at your face you don’t need to say anything…I already have my answer.”

The two boys walked across the sidewalk and stepped inside the diner, Michael absentmindedly following behind Max as he thought about their conversation. A moment later the boys noticed their sibling sitting with Alex half way down the line of booths, apparently in mid-date.


Isabel was deep in conversation with Alex when she noticed Max and Michael step inside the diner. She broke off her banter and nodded towards the boys causing Alex to glance round and witness their approach. “Are you ready?” She whispered to her date.

“I think so.” Alex replied in equally hushed tones as he turned back. “Good luck.”


“Hi Alex, Please forgive the intrusion but I need a quick word with my sister.” Max said sternly, not taking his eyes off of Isabel despite talking to Alex. As Max continued to watch his sister he waited for her to climb out of the booth but after a few seconds it became apparent that it wasn’t going to happen.

“Max if you have something to say you can say it in front of Alex, we have no secrets from one another.” Isabel explained, giving Alex a reassuring smile.

“Fine, if that’s what you want.” Max dropped a note book on the table and placed his hands on his hips in an impatient stance. “Care to explain this?”

Both Isabel and Alex leaned forward and looked at the book before leaning back. “It says ‘Max Evans – Chemistry notes’.” Isabel recounted having just read the front cover. “I’m no expert but at a guess I would say they’re your chemistry notes from class.”

“That’s exactly what they are!” Max grabbed the book and flicked through the pages until he reached the final entry. “That page…” Max pointed to one side of the open book covered in notes. “…was from yesterday’s class. That page was from today’s class!”

Alex leaned forward again to confirm what he was looking at. “Dude, that page is blank. What’d you use…invisible ink?”

Isabel had to stifle a laugh at Alex’s comment.

“That’s my point Alex!” Max exclaimed. “Someone has wiped my page of notes from today’s class and we have a test tomorrow!”

Isabel shrugged. “And you’re telling me why exactly?”

Max leaned forward and lowered his voice. “Because only you or Michael have the abilities to wipe the writing off of this page without leaning a mark and I know it wasn’t Michael. Also when mom and dad got in from work today they said you had made some comment about me falling behind in chemistry while you were talking to them on the phone earlier and that I had to go and start my revision for tomorrow’s test immediately.”

“Look there’s nothing to get all upset about.” Isabel said calmly. “All you need to do is find someone from your chemistry class and copy their notes.”

“I’ve tried that before.” Max moaned. “And they’re all terrible at taking notes. The only person who’s any good is…” Max trailed off, realisation suddenly hitting him. “You didn’t?”

Isabel frowned. “Didn’t what?”

“You did all this just so I would have to ask Liz for help with my chemistry notes.” Max asked incredulously. “You have to be kidding me.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about Max.” Isabel replied with an innocent look plastered across her face. “And quite frankly I’m upset you would think such a thing of me. For you to think I am capable of being so deceitful and doing something that is so underhand has cut me to the bone. I won’t lie to you Max, I’m hurt.”

“Hey guys.” Liz cut in on the little gathering. “I won’t disturb you I just wanted to give Alex his soda refill.” Liz placed a full glass of orange soda on the table and picked up the nearly empty glass. As she turned to walk away Liz remembered something and looked back at the group. “And while I remember Alex I did take notes in Chemistry today, sorry I meant to tell you earlier but Maria said you’d asked her but she wasn’t sure. Do you need them?”

Alex fought the urge to blush but failed miserably. Isabel’s head dropped and she let out a heavy sigh and Max simply stared in disbelief. Liz looked at the group for a moment, she knew something was going on but she wasn’t quite sure what so she gave them a smile before turning away.

When Isabel looked up she saw a broad smile on her brother’s face. “Busted!” Was his triumphant cry.

Alex and Isabel just stared at one another, their plan laid in tatters around their feet. Both was trying to take comfort in the shared look, aware things might be about to get very ugly.

“Liz.” Max called gently, breaking in on their thoughts. As they watched Liz returned to the group, a questioning look on her face. Max sent a look towards his sister and her date before looking back at Liz. “Liz Alex was asking about your chemistry notes on my behalf. Do you think I could borrow them and maybe even get some help later before our test tomorrow?”

Liz stood in shocked silence for a moment before snapping out of her daze. “Sure.” She said softly. “I’ll just go and get my notes and, if you like, we can go through them in a little while when things quieten down here.”

“I’d like that.” Max replied.

“Hey, you guys aren’t talking about me are you?” A familiar voice questioned. They turned to find Maria looking at them with suspicion.


“No.” Alex smiled, shaking his head. "We were just sorting out our revision."

“That reminds me. I don’t want to interrupt you two lovebirds but when will Alex be free for us to do my social sciences project?” Maria questioned.

“Erm…I meant to speak to you about that Maria.” Alex shifted nervously in his seat. “Isabel and I are going for a walk after dinner so I hope you won’t mind but I won’t be able to help you this evening.”

“Can’t help me?” Maria repeated. “But you were the one who told me we could do it tonight after your date! I’ve been waiting weeks to do this with you.”

“That’s my fault Maria.” Isabel stepped in at the defence of Alex. “We’re having such a great time I’m not in any hurry for this evening to end. Please forgive Alex, it’s my fault not his.”

“But Alex only arranged this with me this afternoon.” Maria bemoaned. “How am I supposed to fill in my questionnaire about teenage boys without a teenage boy?”

Max sent his sister a knowing look and she visibly recoiled. With the benefit of hindsight she and Alex’s plans were somewhat obvious.

“I’ll do it.” A voice cut in. Everyone turned to look at Michael.

Maria took a step forward. “You’re willing to help me with my social science questionnaire?”

Michael shrugged. “I don’t have anything better to do. I don’t have to if you don’t want me to.” He added defensively.

“No that’s OK.” Maria said hurriedly. “With Alex out of the picture I’m stuck without you.” Maria paused for a moment. “Thank you.”

“Kids, I’m all for social gatherings but not in the middle of my diner.” Jeff Parker cut in.

“Sorry.” Everyone called as they broke apart.

Isabel and Alex watched as Max and Michael followed the two girls over to the counter. Liz then split from the group and headed out the back, no doubt on a quest to collect her note book.

“Well I think our plan might have worked.” Isabel enthused.

“More through luck than judgement.” Alex added with a smile.

“Who cares as long as they sort things out the way that we have.” Isabel stated, focusing her gaze back on her date. “Now where were we before we were rudely interrupted?”


To be continued…

A/N: Just to let you know this is coming to an end. I have one, maybe two more parts and this will be finished. The good news is I have already started to write my next story, I have two chapters written, and I will start posting very soon. Thanks as always...I appreciate it. David/StargazerUK


Chapter 13


Max and Michael sat silently at the counter as they waited for Liz and Maria. Initially both boys were unwilling to make eye contact with one another but as they glanced around the diner they finally ran out of places to look and they found their gaze was drawn to one another.

“What?” Michael questioned when he saw Max looking at him.

“What?” Max threw back defensively.

Michael almost growled. “I asked you first!”

“I asked you first?” Max repeated. “What are you…twelve?”

“I’m not the one who’s going to throw himself at Liz Parker.” Michael accused.

“Well I’m not the one who’s got to open up and tell Maria my innermost feelings for a social sciences project.” Max countered.

“Oww!!” “Hey!” Both boys called as they felt a swift slap to the back of each of their heads. They turned to find a clearly unhappy Isabel standing with her hands on her hips in a defiant stance. “If you two morons ruin this…so help me I’ll blast the two of you into the middle of next week…do you hear me?”

Michael feigned indignation. “He started it…”

“Michael!” Isabel cut in. “I don’t care who started it but I know who’ll finish it!” Isabel leaned in close to speak quietly to the two boys and she had to stop herself from laughing when they both moved back, scared she was going to hit them again. “All I’m saying is I know what you two did.”

When both young men exchanged a glance and then looked back at Isabel, clearly none the wiser, she decided to explain herself. “You both are aware of what we can now clearly see was an inept plan to push you both towards Liz and Maria.” Both boys nodded so Isabel continued. “But despite the fact that the plan failed and you both saw through it you both decided to carry on, for which I thank you.” Isabel surprised both boys by giving them each a chaste kiss on the cheek.

“I know you’re nervous.” She continued. “But you have no need to be. Trust me when I tell you each girl wants you to spend time with them…this is what they want just as it is what you want, just don’t ruin it.”

“Ruin it…how?” Michael questioned.

“Don’t say the first thing that comes into your head because it is normally a smart remark or at the very least think about how what you are going to say will affect the other person.” Isabel explained. “Try and be honest.”

Isabel turned her attention to Max. “And you…let Liz make her own decisions, don’t make them for her. I know you are just looking out for her safety but she’s a big girl and quite capable of making her own mind up. If she says she wants to date and spend time with you then that’s what she means.”

Isabel smiled at each sibling as she took a step back. “Now if you will excuse me my date is going to walk me home and I’m quite excited.”

Max arched his eye-brows in surprise. “You’re excited that Alex is walking you home? You mustn’t have very high expectations from a date.”

“No you don’t understand.” Isabel leaned back in, barely able to contain her excitement. “It’s the first time I’ve allowed a boy to walk me home without having dad waiting for me on the porch. Who knows what base we might reach?”

“For crying out loud!” Max exclaimed. “Too much information Isabel.” Michael stated.

Isabel turned away in triumph, her work here done.

The two boys fell into an uncomfortable silence. After a moment Max decided to break the mood. “Sorry man, I didn’t mean anything by what I said.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Michael replied casually. “If you’d told me yesterday that I would be sitting here waiting for Deluca I would have laughed my ass off.”

“Michael.” Max interrupted his friend gently. “You might want to start referring to Maria as Maria rather than Deluca.”

“Do you think?” Michael’s face creased in thought. “But Scully calls Mulder…Mulder.”

“Everyone calls Mulder…Mulder. Only his mom calls him Fox.” Max explained. “I’m not saying don’t call Maria…Deluca but it might be nice if, from time to time, you call her Maria.”

“OK.” Michael nodded. “I get what you are saying. Any other words of wisdom?”

“Just treat her right.” Max turned his gaze to the side and looked at his sister and Alex getting ready to leave. Following Max’s gaze Michael also watched their friend’s prepare to depart. “Alex has the right idea. You don’t become best friend with two beautiful young women without knowing how to treat them right.”

“Yeah but he’s whipped.” Michael joked, a slight smile appearing on his face.

“Is he?” Max questioned. “He gets to spend all of his time with beautiful women rather than sitting at home watching hockey or basketball.”

Michael was aware of the thinly veiled comment. “But he has to do what the two girls tell him to do.” He complained.

“And we don’t?” Max queried. “Don’t we do what Isabel tells us to do?”

“Well that’s different.” Michael stated firmly. He paused for a moment deep in thought. “Actually now that I think about it…it’s not. I’m scared of Maria as well.”

Max turned back to his friend and gave him a hearty slap on the back. “Welcome to the world of dating my friend.”

Liz and Maria came out of the back and made their way down to Alex and Isabel. After paying for their food the young couple said their goodbyes, waved goodbye to Max and Michael and heading on out. Liz and Maria finally turned their attention to their two counterparts waiting at the counter.

“I think it’s best if we split up otherwise we might just end up chatting.” Liz offered, a little nervously. “Max if you and I move over to that empty booth we can leave Maria and Michael here at the counter to fill in the questionnaire.”

Max followed Liz over to the booth and for the first time in weeks he allowed himself to truly look at the petit brunette. The only reason he even thought about taking a step back was to keep this heavenly creature safe. It had become more and more difficult as each day went by to stay away from something that felt so right…so normal. If there was one thing he had learned in his time of knowing the humans it was that what he craved most was being normal.

It was rather ironic that Liz, whom he thought was the most special and unique young woman he had ever or would ever encounter, was the poster child for normalcy.

“Max, are you OK?” Liz cut in on his daydream. “You look at little dazed.”

“I’m fine.” Max smiled as he slid into the booth opposite Liz. “I was just thinking about how obvious Isabel and Alex’s plan was but I’m glad all the same.”

“Plan?” Liz frowned.

“Of course you don’t know.” Max suddenly realised. “It was Isabel and Alex’s way of showing me and Michael how foolishly we have been behaving and I was just saying I’m glad we have finally come to our senses.”

Liz blushed slight, dropping her gaze. She may not have known the full background to Max’s comments but she understood the meaning nonetheless.

“I didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable.” Max said, reacting to Liz’s sudden change in demeanour.

“It’s not that.” Liz shook her head. “I’m just glad we can at least start to get back to where we were.” Liz lifted her gaze and looked at Max directly. “I know you were only looking out for me but shouldn’t I be allowed to look out for you?”

Max nodded, smiling. “Yes you should. It’s taken me a while but I realise that although I was acting with the best of intentions it wasn’t down to me to act on both our behalves.”

“So what’s next?” Liz questioned.

“Well for the next hour I’m hoping you’ll help me with my Chemistry notes as Isabel wiped mine from my book.” Max knew he was avoiding the real question and Liz gave him a pointed look but she took the edge off it by adding a slight smile. “Without seeming derivative after seeing Isabel and Alex out on a date maybe you would allow me to take you out? Somewhere quiet where we can talk.”

Liz’s slight smile turned into a beaming grin. “I’d like that.”


“You do not!” Maria exclaimed.

“I’m telling you I do!” Michael replied, trying to hold his ground without raising his voice.

“You’re telling me the only music you listen to is Metallica?” Maria questioned. “And the only TV you watch is sports!”

“Yes.” Michael nodded. “Why would I lie?”

“I haven’t figured that one out yet.” Maria eyed the boy suspiciously. “But I will.”

“So you’re saying you like to watch ice-hockey?” Maria pressed.

“Not ice-hockey!” Michael repeated with a tone of impatience in his voice. “Its hockey…there is only one type of real hockey! Next question.” Michael demanded.

“You seem very keen all of a sudden.” Maria commented. “I’m sure you are up to something but I can’t quite figure it out.”

“Can’t a guy just help someone out?” Michael asked.

“Guy…yes. You…I’m still not sure.” Maria replied. “Isabel hasn’t threatened you or anything has she?”

“No more than usual.” Michael replied nonchalantly.

Maria continued to look at Michael warily before moving on to the next question. “What’s your favourite place?”

Michael paused for a moment. “Here.”

Maria blinked in surprise. “What?”

Michael shifted uncomfortably in his seat while he thought about what Isabel said, ‘Be honest’. “Here.” He repeated.

Maria couldn’t help herself. “Why here?”

Michael shrugged. “I don’t have a lot of alternative places to choose. School sucks. Home sucks. I normally end up staying with Max and Isabel when something is wrong so although they always look after me that it isn’t my favourite place.” All the time that Michael spoke he could hear Isabel’s words repeating in his head, over and over again. Finally he decided to do something he had never done before…not hide. “The food’s good, it’s a friendly place…and you’re here.” He said softly.

Maria froze. He had only managed to whisper those last words but Maria heard them as though he had shouted them out at the top of his lungs. She could feel the tears starting to build in her eyes but she knew immediately that if she cried Michael would think she pitied him and he would leave and most likely never speak to her again.

She spun round and started to get a cherry coke. “Its thirsty work this social sciences project, I’ll just get you a drink.”

Michael wasn’t sure what just happened. He had taken the plunge and been honest with Maria but this wasn’t the reaction he was expecting. Now that he thought about it he wasn’t sure what he was expecting so that last thought made no sense whatsoever.

“Maria, are you OK?” Michael asked softly.

Maria turned back, holding the drink but it was the quizzical look she had on her face that confused Michael. “Did you just call me Maria?”

Michael frowned. “Erm…yes. It is your name after all.”

“I know.” Maria nodded. Realising she shouldn’t make a big deal out of it, Michael was obviously trying. “It’s just…nice. I’m not used to you calling me that.”

“I can call you Deluca if you’d…”

“No!” Maria cut in. “That’s OK. Maria’s fine.”

Maria wanted nothing more than to reach over and pull the big young man into a hug but she knew that he would run out the door so fast her head would spin. In the end she settled for moving round to the other side of the counter and sitting down on the stool beside Michael’s. She made a point of totally invading his personal space, which she took great enjoyment out of.

Michael visibly straightened up when he and Maria lean into one another but it soon became clear that she was leaning into him…this was her choice. Despite relaxing after a few minutes he could still feel his heart pounding in his chest.

He was right though…this was his favourite place.



To be continued…

Chapter 14


“You’re looking pretty pleased with yourself.” Alex cut in on Isabel’s thoughts.

“Not with myself.” Isabel smiled broadly while tightening her grip on Alex’s arm. “With Max and Michael. By their actions this evening they have clearly decided to stop all this ‘timeout’ nonsense and to try and get things back to normal, or what counts for normal with us.” She hastily added.

“And we’re not taking any credit for that?” Alex asked cautiously.

“I’d like to think we helped but after our plan fell so flat I think it is the least we can do, letting the boys take credit for seeing our plan through.” Isabel reasoned.

“I’ll tell you what.” Alex offered with a mischievous grin. “They can take credit for their part in the plan but I’ll give you credit for setting the wheels in motion and for having such incredible taste for choosing to go out to dinner with me.”

“Alex!” Isabel exclaimed. “Where has all this self-confidence suddenly appeared from?”

Alex simply shrugged. “Without wishing to appear shallow I have to admit to a certain feeling of bravado when you walk down a street with the world’s most beautiful young woman on your arm.”

Isabel suddenly blushed and dropped her gaze. That was the last thing she was expecting her date to say. “Alex stop…you’re making me blush.”

“Good.” Alex smiled triumphantly. “It’s something you are going to have to get used to.”

“What? Blushing?” Isabel was slightly puzzled.

“No.” Alex shook his head, smiling. “Compliments. I think a woman should be told everyday exactly how beautiful and amazing she is.” Alex turned to look at Isabel. “At least I think that is something that you should hear everyday.”

Isabel released her hold on Alex’s arm and turned him slightly so that he was face on to her. Without taking her eyes of his adoring face she felt for his hands and entwined her fingers with his. Slowly she leaned forward until they were merely an inch or two apart. She stopped herself, wanting to feel the energy that was crackling between them before she made her closing move. Then, taking as painfully a long a time as she could withstand she closed the remaining gap and sent her lips crashing down onto Alex’s as they finally kissed.

As the two stood in their passionate embrace they were unsure who was holding who up. Both were being overtaken by not only the warm and enthusiasm of their kiss but the flashes and feelings that were pulsating through their connection.

Despite both wishing this moment would never end they reluctantly broke apart while still holding each other close. “Wow.” Alex managed to squeak out as he looked to steady himself.

“Wow is right.” Isabel agreed with a board smile on her face. “I’ve never had a kiss like that before.” She confessed.

“Is that good or bad?” Alex questioned, suddenly feeling a little self-conscious about his lack of kissing experience.

Isabel linked arms with Alex again and turned them back on their path towards her home. “Trust me when I tell you it’s a good thing…a very good thing.”


Eventually they reached the Evans house and Alex made sure he escorted his date to the front door as any true gentleman should. Isabel was somewhat confused as Alex appeared to start backing away slightly.

“What are you doing?” Isabel questioned, almost curtly.

Alex stopped backing away, aware he had been caught. “I was just getting ready to say goodnight.”

“OK.” Isabel nodded. “Two things, firstly why are you backing away?” Isabel made a point of taking a step forward, closing the gap Alex had created.

Alex was blatantly unsure of something as he began to blush furiously and dropped his head. “I…I didn’t want to assume that kissing was now a given between us so I thought I would give you a little space.” He stuttered.

Unexpectedly Isabel took a hold of either side of Alex’s face. She lifted his head gently and pulled him towards her into the most fervent of kisses. Alex was caught between the sheer ecstasy of having Isabel kiss him again and the fact that he was kissing Mr Evans’s daughter on their front porch. The front porch that he kept an eye on like a hawk.

Isabel finally broke them apart and couldn’t stop herself from smiling when she saw the mixture of happiness and absolute terror on her date’s face. “You don’t have to worry…I spoke to my dad and told him that I would throw a sulking fit that would surpass anything he had experienced from me before if he dared to interrupt us like he did the other night.”

“OK.” Alex nodded vigorously. He noticeably calmed down but he didn’t take his eyes off of the windows, still looking for any sign of movement from the curtains.

“You must understand.” Isabel cut in, forcing Alex’s attention back to her. “We’re dating now Alex. Kissing is what we are going to be doing from now on…a lot!” She emphasised the last words. “I’m a big girl and I’ll let you know if I don’t want to kiss or if I am uncomfortable for any reason but until then I have to make it clear to you that you have a green light.”

“A green light?” Alex repeated Isabel’s last remark.

“It means I’m a confident girl, I trust you and I know you will always behave like a perfect gentleman. It’s one of the things I love most about you.” Isabel explained. “It means that if you want to hold my hand…then hold my hand. If you want to ask me out…then ask me out.”

Alex couldn’t stop the broad smile that adorned his face as he understood Isabel’s explanation. “So if I want to pull you into a hug I can?” Alex questioned.

“Yes.” Isabel replied, liking the idea of where this was leading.

As she had suspected Isabel watched as Alex stepped forward and pulled his new girlfriend into a hug. She allowed herself to simply melt into his tall, lean body and she had to fight to contain her glee at having a pair of strong arms holding her so close.

“Thank you.” Alex softly whispered into Isabel’s ear. “And before you ask me what for…for everything. For deciding to open up to me, for making me the happiest man alive and for just being you.” Alex slowly released his hold on Isabel and stepped back. “Did you say you had a second point?”

“What?” Isabel questioned, still in a slight daze from her glorious hug.

“When I stepped away from you a minute ago you said ‘Two things’.” Alex explained.

“Oh right!” Isabel cleared her mind. “The second thing was a question. Aren’t you coming in?”

Alex froze. He was already having the time of his life but it seemed his enjoyment overload had finally fried his brain, he thought Isabel had just invited him inside.

“I’ll take your not committal reaction to mean you would love to come in.” Isabel joked taking hold of Alex’s hand. “Now just make sure you keep me in between you and my dad, that way he can’t hurt you.” Isabel couldn’t help herself when it came to her little joke but when she looked back and saw the ‘Deer caught in headlights’ look that Alex gave her she felt pretty bad. “Sweetie I was only kidding. My dad likes you after the other night and my mom will love you.”

Alex tried to slow his heart rate to normal as he followed Isabel inside. Once Isabel had pointed out that she was only joking he had managed to slow it to around 200 beats per minute so he only had about another 130 beats to go and he would be somewhere near a regular rhythm.

Isabel made a point of keeping hold of Alex’s hand as she moved down the hallway and into the kitchen. As Alex followed he fought the urge to panic especially when he saw Mr and Mrs Evans sitting at the kitchen table enjoying what looked like a cup of tea.

“Mom…dad, I’d like to do some formal introductions...” Alex watched as Mr Evans stood up, he really was a big man. “…this is Alex Whitman, my boyfriend.” Isabel turned to look at Alex with such a loving look that all of his concerns simply melted away in that instant. “Alex this is my mom and dad…Diane and Philip.”

“Hello Mrs Evans, it’s very nice to meet you.” Alex turned his attention to Mr Evans who was now standing almost in front of him. “Hello Mr Evans it’s nice to see you again.” Alex let go of his hold on Isabel’s hand and shook hands firmly with her dad.

“It’s lovely to finally meet you.” Diane confessed. “You’re all Isabel has been talking about for the last few days.”

“Mom!!” Isabel exclaimed.

“It’s nice to see you again Alex.” Mr Evans smiled. “I’m glad to see you survived the get-together you had with Isabel on the porch. I’m reasonably sure you are the first boy to make a reappearance at the house…congratulations.” Philip joked.

“Dad!” Isabel turned to her amused mother. “Mom, tell dad, he’s embarrassing me!”

“I’m sure Alex knows your dad is only kidding, don’t you Alex?” Diane turned her attention to their guest.

“If I’m honest Mrs Evans I’m still reeling from the fact that I am the first guy to make a return visit, should I be scared?” Alex joked making both Mr and Mrs Evans laugh.

“That’s great.” Isabel bemoaned. “My boyfriend and my parents are hitting it off straight away so they can make fun of me.” Isabel grabbed hold of Alex and began to drag him out of the room. “We’ll be in the Den if you need us.” She called over her shoulder before they both disappeared out of the door.

Alex trailed Isabel as they made their way towards the Den. He couldn’t believe his luck with regards how well this night was going…it just kept getting better and better. Not only was he out on a date with the girl of his dreams but Liz and Maria appeared to be making progress with Max and Michael when they left the Crashdown. Then Isabel had initiated a couple of bouts of kissing on the way home. Finally, as the icing on the proverbial cake, Isabel had introduced him to her parents as her boyfriend…not only that but her dad hadn’t killed him! That was a definite plus point.

Once inside what appeared to be the aforementioned Den Isabel closed the door, took off her jacket which she laid over the back of a chair and moved to the main couch, dropping down in the centre seat. Alex slowly removed his jacket and laid it over the top of Isabel’s. He stepped towards a chair beside the couch and motioned to sit down.

“Don’t even think about it.” Isabel stated abruptly.

Alex straightened himself up while fidgeting furiously. “I was only going to sit down there so I could gaze upon your captivating beauty.” Alex lied, trying to cover his reticence.

“Nice try Whitman now get over here.” Isabel commanded with a wicked smile playing on her luscious lips.

“If I must.” Alex replied in jest as he moved beside Isabel and sat down.

As soon as he sat down Isabel leaned into him, laying her head on his shoulder as she intertwined her right hand with his left. They sat in a comfortable silence for a few minutes, simply enjoying the moment and the company. “What are you thinking?” Isabel asked gently, breaking the peace.

“That if my mom wakes me from this dream it will be the first time she has ever heard me swear or if my alarm clock wakes me it will be flying through by bedroom window so I just hope I left it open before I went to bed last night or I will have to pay for a new clock and a new window.” Isabel could tell from his tone that he was being perfectly serious and it was all she could do to stop herself from bursting into fits of laughter. “What are you thinking about?” Alex finally added.

“That as right and normal as this feels it was the last thing I ever thought I would get to experience.” Isabel replied with absolute honesty.

That comment sent both into another silence. It wasn’t exactly an uncomfortable silence but it did give them food for thought. Despite the almost sombre mood Isabel was surprised when Alex let out a small laugh.

Alex turned and could see the perplexed look on Isabel’s face. “I was just thinking that even though we are poles apart when it comes to our backgrounds I am still amazed by the things we have in common.” As he held Isabel’s gaze Alex could feel his confidence growing by the minute in this beauties presence. “Well you don’t think you were the only one who felt they were going to have trouble dating do you? I mean look at me and look at you. I know which one of us will be looking to our family tree for a Prom date and I know which one of us will be beating them off with a stick.”

“Really?” Isabel asked softly, compassionately. “You really think you will have to beat them off with a stick?”

Alex was left momentarily speechless by Isabel’s remark. “Let’s get one thing straight…” He said in his sternest voice. “…I do the funnies, your job is to sit quiet and look pretty.”

Isabel gazed upon Alex, loving this open and more confident young man more and more by the second. “Yes Dear!” She replied with a contented smile before dropping her head back onto Alex’s shoulder.

“Yes Dear?” Alex repeated. “I’ve never had a girl do as I tell her before, too many years with Liz and particularly Maria. What do I do now?”

“Just sit back and bask in your glorious victory.” Isabel replied, looking up at her confused companion. “But don’t get used to it.” She added. “After the honeymoon period of a week or so we’ll be back to me being in charge and you doing as you’re told.”

“Oh thank goodness.” Alex noticeably relaxed in relief. “I think I’ll be much happier once the normal world order has been restored.”

“Alex I am only kidding.” Isabel leaned forward to look at him properly. “You do know I am only messing about, I won’t really be ordering you around?”

“I know.” Alex nodded with a satisfied smile. “In the spirit of being completely honest I’ll let you in on a little secret. I don’t always do as the girl’s tell me, despite how it may look. I have ways of manipulating them so I get the desired outcome I am looking for while still letting them think they have complete control over me. I think Liz has her suspicions and maybe even Maria but they let me have my modest victories as the rest of the time it keeps them, and especially Maria, happy.”

“Alex I’m shocked!” Isabel feigned indignation. “Who knew you were so devious?” After a few brief moments the pretend look of surprise was replaced by a slightly more serious face. “If we’re being completely honest and owning up to hidden secrets there’s something I need to tell you…warn you really. It’s something you haven’t seen from me before but with our growing relationship it is something you will witness first hand, closer than anyone has experienced before.”

Alex suddenly went cold. He knew his night was going too well, he knew it couldn’t last! He silently admonished himself for not leaving when he had the chance while they were stood out on the porch earlier. The look on Isabel’s face alone told him this was a difficult subject, something she clearly felt uncomfortable discussing. He tightened his hold on his girlfriends hand and gave her the warmest, most comforting look he could muster. “In your own time Iz. I’m sure whatever it is it can’t be that bad.”

“Alex, I’m an obsessive, compulsive freak. When it’s left to me to organise something apparently I turn into this two headed monster that no one can stand to be around. I’m scared if you see me like that you won’t want to be around me either.” Isabel confessed in a rush.

"Is that it?” Alex scoffed. “I thought it was something serious.”

“It is serious.” Isabel replied. “Michael calls me the Christmas Nazi! He says my search for the perfect Christmas verges on the insane and they all avoid me like the plague.”

Alex lifted his arm and wrapped it around his fraught girlfriend, pulling her close. “What they say is obsessive and compulsive…I say is passionate and driven. It’s not a bad thing to help people Isabel. Nor is it the end of the world to want to be organised and make the most of your time. Actually it has come as a huge relief…thank you for telling me.”

“It has?” Isabel questioned softly.

“Hell yes.” Alex replied enthusiastically. “Christmas is normally a terrible time of year for me, just think about it. I’m normally a single guy who has to buy presents for not only his family but also his two best friends who happen to be girls! This year will be like a breath of fresh air with my girlfriend, who happens to be an expert shopper, there to help me.”

“You’d do that?” Isabel asked. “You’d let me organise your Christmas and take you on a shopping trip?”

“It would be my pleasure.” Alex replied before planting a gentle kiss on Isabel’s forehead.

Isabel suddenly leapt to her feet and let out a squeal.

Alex quickly followed suite. “What is it…what’s wrong?”

“Nothing.” Isabel sprang forward and gave Alex a brief but loving kiss. “I just need to find a pen and paper…I need to get things organised!”






Three weeks later.


“They’re late.” Michael moaned.

“They’re not late.” Alex countered.

Without looking Michael lifted his hand and pointed above his head. That caused Alex to follow his gesture which ended up guiding him to a clock on the wall above their heads. “They were supposed to be here at 7pm, it’s now 7:15pm which makes them late.”

“You’re missing my point.” Alex smiled. “I know they were supposed to be here at 7pm and I am already aware of the time now but what I am saying is they are girls…they’re never late.”

Michael frowned at such logic. “Well that’s just plain stupid. If they’re late then they’re late…there’s no two ways about it.”

“Again, I understand but if you tell them they are late they will deny it and you will only succeed in getting their backs up and putting them in a defensive mood before the night has even begun.” Alex explained.

Michael looked at Max who had remained silent since they had sat themselves down at the booth. “Do you understand any of what he is saying?”

“Fortunately yes and it is something you are going to have to learn.” Max informed his best friend. “We like women because they are the different to how we are. They are feminine and soft, the complete opposite to us.”

“Your point being?” Michael asked sternly.

“My point being I think the easiest thing for any of us to do is go with the opposite of what our natural reaction is.” Max surmised. “If they are late don’t immediately start in on them about being late, tell them we were waiting in anticipation.”

“Oh brother!” Michael exclaimed.

Suddenly the door to the Crashdown opened and in walked three very attractive young women. The girls made their way inside the diner and found their three dates sitting in a booth. “Hey guys.” Maria greeted her friends. “Sorry, are we late?”

Max and Alex couldn’t help but look at Michael, worried what he might say. “You’re just in time.” Michael replied, as he stood up to welcome Maria. He had clearly deciding on a tactful comment, which confused both watching boys.

“Whose idea was it to go bowling anyway?” Liz questioned as they started to walk outside to the car.

“Ours” Maria called. “After the debacle of card night we decided we had better go out from now on.”

“I wasn’t cheating.” Michael stated defensively.

“I didn’t say you were cheating Michael.” Maria tried to reassure her large boyfriend. “But it became clear that one of you Czech’s was cheating.”

“Just because I had four aces didn’t mean I was cheating.” Michael continued.

Maria turned, placing her hands on her hips in frustration. “I’ve already said I’m not accusing you of cheating but the fact remains that while you were holding four aces I was holding two. That means someone had altered the cards which means it was one of you three.” Maria made a point of looking at Michael, then Max and finally Isabel. “So we decided to give bowling a go as we were confident you guys couldn’t cheat at that!”

Before they all climbed into the jeep to head off bowling Alex pulled Isabel to one side. “I have something for you.” He reached into his pocket and pulled out a CD case and handed it to Isabel.

“A CD.” Isabel said excitedly. “Is it music? Maybe a little romantic music for us to dance to?”

“I have made a CD just for us but that’s at home.” Alex explained. “That, I’m afraid, is computer stuff for you.”

“Oh! Right.” Isabel suddenly tried to be excited again after her slight anticlimax of finding out her gift wasn’t romantic music but computer software. “That’s very kind of you Alex.” She added.

“Thanks for trying to cover Iz but you don’t have to worry.” Alex smiled. “I think I know you well enough to know you wouldn’t exactly be overjoyed at receiving a computer disk but I’m hoping you’ll like what’s on it.”

“And what is on it?” Isabel asked, now intrigued.

“It’s an assortment of things.” Alex began. “A day planner and calendar so you can organise you Christmas schedule on your PC. Both WORD and EXCEL software to list and then check off each person and present as you shop for their gifts. There’s also a file containing Internet links to browse the online stores before hitting the real shops as I would never want to deprive you of the pleasure of marching me round the malls for hours at a time. Finally there’s a program that holds all of the address’s contained inside your address book, Max grabbed it for me, so you can now print out labels for all of those cards and gifts you always send.”

Isabel suddenly threw herself into Alex’s arms. She couldn’t think of a more personal or desired present. This one simple act from Alex told her more about him than anything else ever could. Just a matter of weeks ago she had confessed to him a trait that was very private and, at times, she felt very defensive of but with this one gesture he had dispelled all of her fears, making her feel happy with her little obsession, it would now be something special and shared between only them.

“Are you two coming or am I going to have to get a bucket of cold water?” Michael yelled.

Isabel stepped back from Alex and took hold of his hand. She couldn’t wipe the smile off of her face as she led the two of them towards the waiting car. Before they joined their friends she made a point of looking back at Alex. “I don’t want to ruin the surprise but I think I am safe in saying you’re going to have a very good Christmas this year and I have a sneaking suspicion that you are going to like the present I have in mind for you.”

Alex flushed a deep red as he climbed into the back seat before Isabel climbed in and sat on his lap.

“Alex, are you OK? You look a little flushed.” Liz asked with concern.

“I’m fine Liz.” Alex tried to reassure his friend. “I just found out there is a Santa Claus and that he did get my letter last year after all.”



The End.


A/N That's another one done, I hope you liked it. Thanks for all the feedback, I appreciate it as always. As is now the norm I am ploughing straight into my next story, which rather fortunately I have already started writing so I am three chapters in front. I'll be posting the first chapter so keep an eye out for it. It's called "I forgot to tell you...I Love You."

Thanks again! David / StargazerUK