CHAPTER 13 - NEW PART 03/07!
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Hey guys!
I'm back. Finally. Thanks for all the well wishes. I'm feeling much better and it gave me a lot of time to work on this, so I have another long part. I hope there are no objections.
Thanks for sticking around everyone!
I also wanted to thank those who nominated Madison for an award. Seriously, I was shocked and so touched all at the same time. It really means a lot.
So, here are the thank you's (you're all so awesome):
LysCat: I’m so flattered that you check for updates for this fic, sorry that there hasn’t been any lately! And I’m glad that you keep returning despite my lacking in the Max and Liz moments. (Yes, I do feel guilty. lol.) Well, you won’t have to wait long for the Tess/Kyle answers…They are coming soon. I promise. Thanks for the feedback!
ERIN: You know what I notice about you? You always go and leave me this feedback that makes me blush and then you always end up calling me a ‘Freak’. Make up your mind WOMAN!
I thought that’d you’d like the Isabel/Max talk. lol. Can’t answer much more of your questions…but they do have answers! I SWEAR! About QaF *sigh* I love Brian too. And damn that Prom episode…It’s like my favourite but I always end up crying. Every time! What a show!
Jason's Lover: Thank you so much!
begonia9508: I’m glad you liked the long part! I hope it made up for the long wait
So glad you liked Liz…Wasn’t sure how people were going to re-act to her reaction (that’s a weird sentence! lol) Thanks for the feedback.
behrlyliz: Not liking Kyle, I see. lol. Sorry about the no kiss! Well, remember Michael knows that something is going on with Maria, so when he heard the song he knew what she was singing about. Plus, he has his suspicions about Tess and Kyle. I’m glad you liked the performances! Thanks for the feedback.
Liz86000: Okay! OKAY! I’m sorry for stopping there! Can you forgive me? More Kyle hating I see. lol. Yes, Michael was being nice (in his way
) Maria being hired as a singer? I think that’s a great idea! And I was lmao at the whole Max being blind and damaged because of Tess! Thanks for the feedback, I got a real kick out of it!
Earth2Mama: Aww. Thank you. Did you download the songs? I love them too. I often listen to them when I’m writing this and thought that they fit perfectly (especially ‘Nobody’s Home’). Glad you liked them!
icequeen: Well, here’s another long chapter for ya! So glad you liked the songs. You’re right on the money about Michael. Also glad you liked the Max/Isabel talk. And I think that Max is doing a good job with Madison as well, thanks
Yes, there’s always room for hope…Especially in this story! Thanks for reading.
tequathisy: Thanks. You’re so sweet. I’m so happy that you liked the scene at Open Mic, I had a very difficult time with it, so that means a lot. Oh, and I couldn’t be any more happier that you liked Alex. I thought he rocked too!
janesdilemma: Yay! More Alex Love! lol. Oh and
'rock the casbah’ is my new fav saying!
Yeah, hand holding is definitely not better than kissing! Lol. But, I’m glad you liked it. So happy you love Liz and Madison’s relationship…puts a big smile on my face! Thanks for the feedback!
Itzstacie: Well, first of all let me just tell you that your daughter has a beautiful name!
Yes, my name is Krista. lol. Is it spelt the same? Cause I’ve never met anyone with the same spelling. Yes, poor Max…He really doesn’t want to think about who his wife left him for! Thanks for the feedback!
FamersAmers: Thanks. The Tess thing is coming up soon! I promise.
Elci: Thanks.
Emz80m: Thank you. I’m so glad you like it!
linliz68: Aww. Thanks, I’m glad you like Madison. Yeah, Kyle didn’t get to say much did he? lol. He’ll get his say though, soon enough. So happy you liked The Whits…It’s really hard writing as a person is singing. lol. I’m very happy that you liked the chapter!
purpleant: Thanks so much. I thought Liz was awesome too!
SmileeUk: Thank you! And so happy that you understand where Max is coming from. Thanks for reading.
maxnlizforever: Thanks! Well, I love that you loved it and I love you for leaving wonderful feedback (Now, there’s a sentence! lol.) And yes…Friendship is the best way to start a relationship. Glad you liked how Liz and Michael were both perceptive regarding Maria’s song! Ah! QaF and the win/lose situation…ITA. It’s such a conflicting feeling. Don’t they realize they are screwing with our lives! lol. So, I’m guessing your spoiled for the season? I’ve been avoiding them like the plague. I spoiled myself for the last season of Roswell, which I regretted. So, I’m trying to be strong for QaF. Yes, five wonderful years…My life is going to be so empty now! About your quote: that was a great scene. I love when Brian acts like a loser. Just makes him more sexy!
Bixie: Glad you liked Liz’s moment to shine. She did go, didn’t she? lol. Snails pace…I apologize for that, but I love the phrase!
Yeah, Michael’s just not having a good time…No one will tell him anything and that’s just driving him nuts because he has his suspicions about everyone and everything. lol. Are you trying to guilt me into long posts from now on? lol. Well, this one’s a long one…because yes, I do feel guilty. Thank you very much! I’m just kidding! Thanks for the feedback.
g7silvers: Ah, more Kyle hating. I love it! lol. Michael’s mood is definitely because he picked up on what Maria was singing. Thanks for the feedback!
Lizza: THANK YOU. Glad you liked the bra and panties remark! Thanks for reading!
frenchkiss70: Thanks. So happy you like Liz. And yes, you were right about her and Kyle. Though, there is a little more that will come out later on. I’m glad she told him off too. Yes, Max was having his own pity party. I am working very hard at getting him to get his shit together. lol. I know I am going to have to also work very hard at convincing you…I hope that I can. But, I guess only time will tell. You’re totally on to Michael, which pleases me beyond words! A question I can answer: Liz’s reaction to Maria’s song was solely based on what Maria went through. This is one of Liz’s biggest concerns right now. Thanks for the feedback, I always look forward to it!
Smac: Thank you so much! I liked the castrating comment as well, I’ve always wanted to say it! lol. Kyle will have his time to speak, I promise. All of them loose and crazy? Hmm…that’s an interesting idea!
You’ll have to wait and see…Glad you liked the performances. Thanks for the feedback!
xmag: Wow. I’m so flattered to be your exception! (I mean that sincerely, I’m just not sure it sounded that way. lol. But, it really means a lot, I assure you.) Aw, I’m glad you like Madison! Makes me feel warm and fuzzy! Thanks for the feedback.
cherie: I believe you are right about Michael, well I know you are.
Glad you like that Max is finally paying attention to Liz. Oh, Kyle…It’s coming soon. Thanks for the feedback!
rigel: Thank you!
roswellluver: Thanks for the feedback!
mareli: Well, thank you very much. I’m glad it wasn’t a waste of paper! lol. So happy you are enjoying it. Thanks for the feedback!
So, here it is. Enjoy.
Chapter 13
Max stood outside of the bar smoking a cigarette and holding his cell phone to his ear with his other hand. He had come outside just as Alex and Maria were coming down from the stage to call Isabel. He had wanted to check and see how Madison was doing.
“She’s sleeping now.” Isabel sighed. “And I’m telling you, I look like a hooker.”
Max laughed and leaned against the brick wall. “You’re the one that let her give you a make-over.”
“Well, I didn’t think she’d turn her own aunt into a whore.”
“That happened long before Madison came along.” He joked taking a long drag.
“What did you just say?” She snapped and Max could just picture the look on her face.
“Nothing.” He said trying to sound serious, but ended up bursting into a fit of laughter. “I didn’t say anything.”
There was silence on the other end, but he continued to laugh. Finally he heard his sister’s voice. “Are you laughing? Like genuinely laughing?”
“Uh huh.” Max mumbled because he was trying to compose himself.
“Max.” She said in a singsong voice. “Are you having a good time?”
Max wiped at his eyes. “Yeah. I’m having a great time. You shoulda been here Izzy. Alex and the guys were amazing. And Maria, well you’ve just got to see her to believe it. It was fantastic.”
“I wish I could have gone too.” She sighed into the phone. “I’m just not feeling too great lately. I didn’t know that being pregnant was going to feel like this.”
“How are you now?” He asked concerned because of the tone of her voice.
“I’m okay now. Just tired.” She replied and then her voice lightened. “But, I’m so happy that you’re having a good time.”
“I promised, didn’t I?” He told her smiling to himself.
“Yes you did.” She said softly. “And I’m so happy for you.”
Max stood up straight and strained his ears for a moment. “Are you crying?”
“No.” She sniffed.
“For God sake, Izzy.” He said rolling his eyes. “Stop crying.”
“I can’t help it.” She whispered into the phone. “I’m just so…”
“Emotional.” He finished for her and threw down his cigarette. “I’m hanging up now.”
“Why?”
“Because, you’re blubbering like a baby.” He said smiling.
“I’m
having a baby. I can’t help it if my hormones are out of control.” She replied and now her tone was one of irritation.
He smirked even though she couldn’t see him. “Get your act together and cut out this pity party shit.”
“You asshole!” She replied to him for throwing her own words back at her. Max laughed because he could hear the smile on her face.
“Love you.” He said and ended the call.
He walked back into the bar laughing and had to practically push his way back to his table. The place was more packed than he had realized. He finally spotted the table. Alex and Maria had made their way over. There were more people standing around the table smiling and talking with the two of them. Max presumed that they were telling them they liked the sets that they had done. Maria was standing beside the chair that Alex was sitting in and she was nodding her head at some woman that was talking excitedly. Liz was still in her seat, having another a beer and laughing at something Alex was saying. Michael was still in his seat as well and he still looked upset. Max made his way to the table, trying to avoid bumping into the swarm of people hanging around.
“Hey!” Max called when he had reached the table. He walked around to where Alex was sitting. “You were amazing up there.”
Alex stood up smiling and hugged Max. “Thanks, man. It felt really good to be back up there again.”
“Seemed as if you had never been off it.” Max said pulling away. He actually had to yell over the noise of the crowd. There were no other bands going up tonight, they had been the last ones, but music was playing loudly out of the speakers.
Suddenly Alex was pushed out of the way as Maria threw herself at Max. “Hey! Wasn’t that incredible?”
“Yeah.” He called hugging her back. “You were amazing.”
“It felt amazing. I’ve never felt like that before.” She said looking up at him and Max had never seen anyone seem so happy. “And The Whit’s were so fucking great.”
Max laughed in agreement and patted Alex, who was now back in his seat, on his shoulder. “Yes, they were.”
“Hey!” Someone called and Max turned to see Maria’s boss standing beside them looking at Maria. “I’m not paying you to stand around.”
“Sorry.” Maria told him trying to look ashamed but the smile never left her face.
“Get back to work.” He told her and started to leave, but turned back around. “And I want to talk to you after your shift.”
“You think he’s going to fire me?” Maria asked once he had left.
“Probably.” Max told her nodding his head.
She shrugged. “Well, I better try and make some good tips tonight.”
She turned then and walked over to where Liz was sitting and talking with Alex. She whispered something in her ear, making her laugh. Then Maria ran off and Max walked over to sit back next to Liz.
“How’s Madison?” She asked once he had taken his seat.
“Sleeping.” He said laughing. “She and Isabel had a pretty interesting night.”
“It’s too bad she didn’t come.” Liz said turning to Alex.
Alex nodded. “She hasn’t been feeling well lately. How is she? I was going to go and call her.”
“She’s okay. She said she just felt tired so she was going to go to bed.” Max told him as the waitress came over to ask if they wanted more drinks.
Liz and Michael ordered another round. Alex refused, but Max told him that he would drive home so Alex could have some drinks and celebrate. So, Alex ordered a beer and Max got a Pepsi.
“God I missed this.” Liz said suddenly.
“What?” Max asked her loudly.
“Just going out and having fun. It’s been too long since I’ve done it.” She said nodding her head and looking around the room with wide eyes.
“What, does Kyle never take you out anywhere?” Alex asked her leaning forward so she could hear him. “How come he didn’t come?”
That was a good question Max thought. In fact, he hadn’t seen Kyle at all since he started talking to Liz. He knew that they were dating, they had been since high school, but now that he thought about it, Kyle never seemed to be around.
“They broke up.” Michael stated leaning back in his chair. He was staring at Liz.
Max frowned. What the hell was going on with Michael? He had barely spoken at all since they got there and he just kept staring at Liz with questions in his eyes. Max looked at his friend and wondered how many drinks he had had. Michael tended to get a little cocky when he had too much to drink.
“You broke up?” Alex questioned and Max looked to see Liz tare her eyes away from Michael. She looked down at the table for a moment and then looked to Alex and then to him.
“Yeah, we broke up.” She said waving her hand. “It’s not a big deal. It’s in the past.”
“I’m sorry.” Max offered knowing that it wasn’t the right thing to say. He had hated when people had said it to him about Tess, but now he knew why they did it. What else could you say?
“Don’t be.” She insisted and finished off her beer. “It just wasn’t meant to be.”
The four of them sat in an awkward silence for a moment. Max glanced around the table uncomfortably. Michael was picking the label of his beer bottle. Max thought he looked like he wanted to say something, but he just concentrated on shredding the paper off the bottle. Alex was touching the bandage on his forehead absently. He looked to Liz to see her looking right at him, but once she caught his eye she turned away. Max thought desperately for something to say and was saved by the waitress coming back with their drinks.
“Michael.” Alex said punching him on the shoulder once the waitress had walked away. “Are you going to come over tomorrow?”
“I dunno.” Michael replied shrugging. “I might be busy.”
“Isabel’s going to be pissed if you don’t.” Alex said pointing at him. “Max cancelled because he’s taking Madison out shopping for school clothes and then she asked Tess and she said that she couldn’t come.”
Max shook his head and held up his hand. “No, Madison doesn’t want to go shopping anymore. With me at least. She says that I have no taste in clothes. So, I was thinking that I’d just spend the night at your house tonight and then stay tomorrow. It’s easier than going home tonight anyways. I left my car at home remember?”
Alex nodded. “Good. At least someone is coming.”
Michael ignored the pointed look that Alex was giving him. “I said maybe.”
“Hey Liz,” Alex said suddenly turning towards her. “You should come too.”
“What’s going on tomorrow?” She asked.
“It’s just a barbeque at my place. Nothing big, but you’re welcome to join us.”
She smiled and shook her head. “I don’t want to impose.”
“I’m inviting.” Alex told her smiling. “Besides, Isabel needs to find some girlfriends. I can’t handle her on my own. Yeah, you should definitely come. You’d been saving my life. Bring Maria too.”
Liz laughed. “That’s really nice of you.”
“You should come.” Max insisted because it looked like she was going to refuse. “It’ll be fun.”
Liz hesitated and took a drink from her beer.
“You better go.” Michael warned her. “If she finds out that you were invited and didn’t go, it’ll get ugly.”
“Really?” Liz asked laughing.
“Oh yeah. See Alex’s forehead.” Michael nodded and pointed to the bandage. “That’ll be you.”
Max laughed at that and Alex shook his head.
“I bumped into the door.” He told Liz and then shrugged. “But I wouldn’t put it past her to do something like that.”
“Well, if you put it that way.” Liz said laughing and then she nodded. “I’d love to come. I’ll ask Maria too.”
“Good.” Alex told her smiling and waved the waitress over because he was done his beer.
Max leaned over to Liz. “It’ll be fun. I promise.”
“I trust you.” She said smiling at him and he stared at her for a moment. She had said it really softly, but it echoed in his ears even over the loud music.
Then the waitress came back. Max hadn’t even finished his Pepsi, but the others got another round of beer.
* * *
“That was not me!” Liz squealed. Her face was red from laughing so hard.
“I’m almost positive it was you.” Alex insisted trying to keep a straight face.
“I think he’s right.” Max said laughing as well.
It was two hours later and the four of them were telling stories about when they had been in high school. They were comparing parties and school functions and repeating gossip. It was also two hours and a lot more drinks later. Max was certain that Alex and Liz were drunk. Michael seemed tipsy, but he had cut down on his drinks. There was no stopping Liz and Alex though.
“I don’t know what party you guys are talking about, but I did not dance on a table.” Liz insisted still laughing.
“Yes you did.” Michael insisted and even he was laughing at this point. “You ripped off your top too. It was a red bra. I never forget a bra.”
“No way.” Liz said shaking her head. “You guys are fucked. There is no way in hell I would ever do that.”
Max laughed at her insistence. It wasn’t true; they were just picking on her. But, her reaction was worth it.
“Don’t lie.” Michael smirked. “You wanna do it right now, don’t you?”
Alex and Max cracked up at this point. Liz was staring at Michael with wide eyes.
“I can’t believe you said that! You’re such a pervert. Tell him Max…Tell him what an ass he is.”
Max looked at her and shrugged. “There’s not that many people here.”
He received a slap for that insinuation. It was true though; the place had cleared out quite a bit.
“You’re supposed to be on my side.” Liz accused him and all he could was smile sheepishly at her.
“What’s going on?” Maria asked coming up to the table, still smiling.
“They think I’m a stripper.” Liz moaned and pressed her head against Maria’s stomach.
Maria looked down at her and played with her hair. “You are smashed.”
“No I’m not.” Liz muttered, not moving.
Maria looked around the table and settled her eyes on Max. He was the only one who appeared to be sober. “She’s drunk.”
“Oh yeah.” Max said laughing.
“Thanks a lot.” Maria said shaking her head. “I have to go home with her.”
Max smirked and pointed at Alex. “I have to go home with him.”
Maria turned to look at Alex who was sitting beside her. He was holding his empty beer bottle up in the air and letting the last drops fall down into his open mouth. Maria laughed and grabbed the bottle from his hand. Alex looked up at her smiling with beer all over his chin.
“Payback’s a bitch.” Maria told Max as Liz sat back up in her chair.
“Can we get another round?” She asked looking up at Maria.
Maria shook her head. “We’re closing up soon. Sorry honey. Besides, you really don’t need anymore.”
Liz opened her mouth to argue, but then sighed. “Okay. Can we go home now? My head feel’s funny.”
Maria nodded. “Soon. I just have to talk to Gary so he can fire me. He’s busy now, but I can’t leave until I talk to him.”
“Okay.” Liz said nodding.
“I’ll be back as soon as I can.” Maria told them and walked away.
“Alex is going to puke.” Michael announced and Max looked to see Alex staring at the table.
“No I’m not.” He said, but didn’t look up.
“We should probably get going.” Max said nodding. That’s the last thing he needed was Alex puking everywhere. He looked over to Liz who was sitting there laughing to herself. He couldn’t leave her here though and he wasn’t sure how long Maria was going to be.
“I’ll be right back.” He said getting up and went over to the bar where Maria was cleaning up.
“Hey, I gotta get Alex home. I’ll drop off Liz too if you want.” He told her leaning against the bar.
“Yeah, okay.” She said nodding. “I don’t know how long this is going to take. But she needs to get to bed.”
“Are you going to get home okay?” He asked her.
“Yeah. I’ll be fine.”
He nodded. “Okay, so I’ll see you tomorrow?”
Earlier, Liz had asked Maria if she wanted to come over to Alex and Isabel’s the next day and she had said yes. They had made arrangements that Michael, who finally said he’d go as well, would pick the two of them up on his way over.
“Yeah. Thanks, Max.”
“No problem. And you were great tonight.” He told her again smiling.
“I know.” She said flipping her hair in exaggeration.
He laughed at her and then went back over to the table.
“Okay, let’s go.” He said standing between Alex and Liz.
“I can’t.” Liz told him. “I have to wait for Maria.”
“It’s okay. I’ll take you home.” He told her as Alex dragged himself to his feet.
“No.” She said shaking her head. “I can’t leave her.”
“She said it’s fine.” Max reassured her.
Liz looked up at him in a panic. “No, she can’t go home by herself. What if something happens to her?”
“I’ll wait for her.” Michael said suddenly.
Max looked over at him and he shrugged. “Take them home. I didn’t bring my car anyways, so I’ll wait for Maria and walk her home.”
Max nodded. Michael didn’t live far and the Crashdown wasn’t that far either. He bent down beside Liz. “Michael will wait for her, okay?”
She looked to Max and then rolled her eyes to look at Michael who was sitting across from her. “Do you promise?”
Michael held up his hand and nodded. “I swear.”
She stared at him for moment and then nodded back. “You know, you’re not the asshole that you pretend to be.”
He smirked at her. “Thanks.”
“Okay,” Max said grabbing her arm and pulled her to her feet. “Let’s go.”
He called a goodbye to Michael and then guided Liz and Alex out the door. It proved to be more difficult because the two of them tried to get out the door at the same time. They smashed into each other laughing hysterically. Alex hit the wall making him laugh harder and Max caught Liz before she hit the floor.
“We have to do this again.” Liz said laughing as Max steadied her back on her feet.
“You’ll rethink that in the morning.” He told her shaking his head and they made it out the door this time.
* * *
“Alex, I’ll be right back. Okay?” Max said as he parked Alex’s car in the alley beside the Crashdown.
“Yep. I’ll be right here.” He muttered from the passenger seat.
Max hopped out of the front and opened the back door to where Liz was lying across the backseat.
“C’mon.” He said holding out his hand. She grabbed it and he pulled her out of the car. She bumped into him and he held her to his side and walked her to the door.
“My legs feel funny.” She said laughing. “It’s like I don’t even have any.”
“Where are your keys?” He asked when they were standing in front of the door.
“In my purse.” She said. “I think.”
“Where’s your purse?” He asked looking her over to see she didn’t have one.
She looked up at him in concentration. “In the car. I think.”
He nodded and turned her towards the wall. He pushed her against it, so she was leaning and carefully took his hands away from her. “Stand like that. Don’t move, I’ll get your keys.”
He turned back and jogged to the car.
“I think that they are in there!” Liz yelled. “Max, I only think that they are! I don’t know if that is true! I just think that they might be in there! Possibly Max! I might be lying!”
He couldn’t help laughing at her as he quickly scanned the backseat and saw her purse lying on the floor. He grabbed it and jogged back to the door to find that she had slid down the wall and was sitting on the ground.
“I fell.” She said flatly looking up at him with her hair covering half of her face.
“It’s okay.” He said smiling and grabbed the keys to open the door. “I found the keys.”
She laughed and clapped her hands. “I wasn’t lying!”
He swung the door open and then bent down to pick her up. He wrapped one of her arms around his shoulder and placed his other hand around her waist. “Okay, we have to go up the stairs now.”
She sighed and let him pull her inside. “I don’t like stairs.”
“Me neither.” He agreed and it turned out to be true. He had to go up them sideways with Liz laughing the whole time. Finally they entered her apartment. It was dark, but he didn’t bother looking for the light. She told him where her room was and they made their way there bumping into various things on the way.
They went into her room and the lights from outside lit it just enough through the window that he could see.
“We made it.” She said happily as he walked her over to the bed. He took her arm from around his shoulders and she fell into the bed lying on her back.
“Okay,” He sighed. “You get some sleep. I’m going to take your keys so I can lock the door and I’ll give them to you tomorrow.”
“Thanks Max.” She whispered smiling with her eyes closed.
“You’re welcome.” He said and turned to leave but she called his name.
“Yeah?”
“Can you take off my boots?” She asked holding up one of her legs with the knee-high boots on.
He looked at her for a moment and scratched the back of his neck suddenly feeling uncomfortable. “Yeah, okay.”
He walked over and knelt down beside the bed. He gently took her leg in his hand and pulled down the zipper.
“Do you know what I remember from high school?” She asked suddenly.
He paused and looked up to see that her eyes were still closed. “What do you remember?”
“I remember when I used to go and watch all the football games.”
He laughed and pulled the boot off and dropped it on the floor. “You mean basketball.”
“No.” She said and he glanced up to see her shaking her head with her eyes still closed.
He unzipped the other boot. “Kyle was on the basketball team. It was me that was on the football team.”
“I know. I went to all the football games.”
He had the other boot halfway off and stopped. He looked up at her confused. But, she still didn’t open her eyes.
“Liz?” He whispered. She didn’t say anything and he pulled the other boot off. He stood up slowly and stared at her for a moment. Her eyes were closed and her hair was fanned out around the pillow. The soft light from the street illuminated her face. She was sleeping now. He watched her for a moment longer.
She had gone to all the football games? That just didn’t make any sense to him. But, she was drunk and she hadn’t been making much sense the last little while anyways. It was the way she had said it though. She had sounded so sure.
Max shook his head and headed back downstairs to the car.
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“Did you get fired?”
Maria turned around to see Michael leaning against the wall beside the door that she had just walked out of.
“What are you doing here?” She asked suspiciously.
“I promised I’d walk you home.” He shrugged.
“Really?”
He pushed himself off the wall. “Liz forced me.”
Maria narrowed her eyes at him. Michael got on her nerves, but tonight she didn’t care. It had been too good of a night. She was still soaring from being up on stage again. She couldn’t remember the last time she had felt that good.
“Are you going to be nice?”
He nodded. “I’m always nice.”
“I’m going to ignore that.” She said laughing. “Well, let’s go then.”
She turned and began walking up the street. A moment later he fell in step beside her.
“So, did he fire you?”
She smiled and shook her head. “No. He said that he was so angry when I went up there, but then by the time I was done he didn’t care. He said that I brought the house down. But, he was mad that I didn’t tell him and just went up there. And he said that if I wanted, I could have the next Open Mic night off to perform again.”
He smirked. “He’s only doing that because he knows you’ll bring in customers.”
“So what?” She said looking up at him. “It doesn’t matter. As long as I can do it, who cares? Maybe he’ll promote it or something.”
“You don’t care if he uses you?”
“Not if I’m getting what I want.” She told him honestly. It didn’t matter what Gary’s motivations were. All she wanted to do was sing and if he was willing to let her do that, it didn’t cause her any harm. He got his customers and she got her audience. It was the perfect situation.
They walked in silence most of the way. It was a comfortable silence though, which surprised her. Michael could be a real jerk sometimes, but tonight they just walked.
“You did a really good job up there tonight.”
She looked up at him surprised and saw that he was staring down at his feet. He hadn’t said anything about it all night and she hadn’t expected him to.
“Thanks.” She said smiling genuinely.
“It was an interesting song.” He said looking up at her. She looked away because there was something in his eyes that she didn’t like.
She shrugged as they turned the corner and the Crashdown became visible up ahead. “It’s just a song.”
“You wrote it right?”
She glanced over to see him looking down at her. He knew that she wrote it; she knew that.
“Yeah, I write all my songs.”
He was silent again and she didn’t say anything because she didn’t like where the conversation was going.
When they had almost reached the door he stopped walking. “When did you write it?”
“What does that matter?” She had to call back because she had continued walking.
“When did you write it?” He repeated. She stopped at the front door of the restaurant and looked back to see him still standing where he had stopped.
“It doesn’t matter when I wrote it.” She said angrily, feeling her stomach begin to turn.
“If it doesn’t matter, why won’t you tell me?” He demanded walking towards her. “Just tell me when you wrote it.”
She felt anger surge towards him. What right did he have asking her that? What right did he have shitting on her on her big night?
“Fine.” She practically yelled and he stopped immediately. “I wrote it on the bus ride here. I wrote it when I left New York and came to Roswell. Are you happy now?”
He stood there for a moment and then began to walk towards her again. “I know. I know that’s when you wrote it.”
She held up her hand. “Look Michael, I don’t know who you think you are. But, you don’t know me, okay? So don’t pretend that you do. You don’t know anything about me.”
“You’re wrong.” He said and his voice was suddenly so soft that she almost couldn’t hear him and that scared her.
“It’s just a fucking song.” She said grabbing her keys and shoving them in the door.
“Maria.”
She threw the door open and turned back to him. “Leave me alone Michael. It was just a fucking song.”
He took a step towards the door and she slammed it shut and locked it. They stood staring at each other for a moment and then he walked away.
Maria took a deep breath and leaned against the door. Her mind was racing. It was only a song, she kept telling herself. So, why did Michael act like it was much more than that?
Yeah, she had written the song after she left Billy. But, that didn’t mean anything. Billy didn’t mean anything to her any more. It was all in the past. And Michael didn’t know anything about Billy.
So, why the hell was he acting like he did?
That question was still running through Maria’s mind when she fell asleep later that night.
* * *
“You’re an asshole.” Liz muttered reaching over and turning down the car stereo. Her head was pounding and nothing seemed to help. It was the middle of the afternoon, but her hangover hadn’t disappeared. She had taken aspirin and that hadn’t helped.
Michael wasn’t helping either. He had shown up at her place to pick up her and Maria up and take them to the barbeque. He was talking too loud, laughing too loud, slamming the door shut too loudly and he kept turning up the radio. He didn’t even like the song.
“I’m sorry.” He said from the drivers seat. “Does your head still hurt?”
She glared at him. “Like I said you’re an asshole.”
“Can’t argue with that.” Maria muttered from the backseat. Liz didn’t know what the hell was going on between the two of them. As soon as Michael had shown up Maria had become miserable. She had blatantly refused to sit in the passenger’s seat when Liz offered it to her so she could have the back to herself.
Liz closed her eyes and rested her head on the back of the seat. She had thought about canceling, but then felt extremely bad. She had said she would go and it was her own fault she felt like shit. She had thought of using the excuse that she had forgot because she really didn’t remember much of the night before, but that just seemed like a rotten thing to do.
“Why didn’t you just stay home?” Michael asked then turning the car to the right and Liz slid against the seat.
“Then take us back.” Liz replied not actually meaning it. She knew that he wouldn’t anyways.
“No way.” He said. “I’m not going in there alone to explain why you two didn’t show up. Isabel already called me this morning all excited. Believe me, she’s not the woman that you want to give bad news to.”
Liz laughed. “You’re scared of her.”
“Damn right I am. She’s nuts and being pregnant is helping any.”
“I’m going to tell her you said that.” Maria said suddenly laughing.
“Fuck off!” Michael cried out and Liz opened her eyes in shock. She couldn’t believe that he would say that. He shook his head immediately. “Not you Maria. Look at all the cars.”
Liz turned to look up ahead and saw the street was packed with cars.
“What’s going on?” Maria asked leaning forward.
“Looks like someone’s having a party.” Liz said pointing to where she had spotted a house covered in decorations.
“They took up all the spots.” Michael muttered scanning the road.
“There’s one.” Maria said pointing to where a car was pulling out.
Michael sped up and pulled in to the empty spot. “We’re going to have to walk a little.”
“This is a nice neighborhood.” Maria commented when they were walking up the sidewalk a few minutes later. Michael was walking ahead of them.
She nodded. “Nice place to raise a family.”
“Yeah, Roswell’s really a cute town.” Maria replied looking around.
“What’s going on with you and Michael?” Liz asked bluntly. Michael was far enough ahead that he couldn’t hear her.
Maria sighed. “Let’s just say it wasn’t a pleasant walk home last night.”
“He try to put the moves on you again?” Liz asked her laughing.
“Something like that.” Maria muttered.
Liz rolled her eyes and looked up to where Michael had stopped on the sidewalk. “It’s this one.” He told them and they followed him across the lawn.
She looked up at the house. It was beautiful. Sometimes she wished that she could live in an actual house instead of on top of a restaurant. But she knew that she would miss it at the Crashdown, it had been her home for her entire life. She had a lot of memories there.
Michael tried the door, but it was locked so he rang the bell.
“This is some house.” Maria whistled looking around.
“Be sure to tell Isabel that. She loves compliments.” He smirked.
Liz shook her head at him. Sometimes she didn’t know what was wrong with him. He had been so moody lately.
The door opened then to a squealing Madison who was in a bathing suit.
“Uncle Mikey!” She yelled and threw herself at him. He picked her up and hugged her.
“Hello Beautiful.” He said kissing her on the cheek. Liz tolled her eyes and smiled. He was such a softie when it came to Madison.
“Mikey?” Maria snorted looking at him with a glint in her eyes.
“Hey.” He said turning to her with Madison still in his arms. “This little girl is the only one allowed to call me that.”
“Is that right?” Maria questioned looking at Madison with a smile.
“Yep.” Madison replied nodding her head making her dark curls bounce around her face. “I’m the only one.”
“Okay. If you say so.” Maria said laughing and Michael put Madison down.
“Hi Liz!” Madison said hugging her around the waist causing Liz to sway. That didn’t help her head.
“Hi Madison.” Liz winced touching her forehead.
Madison let go and looked up at her. “What’s wrong?”
“My head hurts a little bit.” Liz told her and smiled weakly.
Madison stared at her for a moment. “Uncle Alex said his head hurt too. Maybe you guys ate something bad.”
Michael laughed and called back as he went in the house. “It wasn’t something they ate. It was something they drank.”
“Was it milk?” Madison asked looking up at her seriously. “Sometimes when I drink too much milk it makes my tummy hurt.”
Liz laughed. “No honey. I don’t think it was milk.”
“Alex is feeling better. Come inside you should talk to him. He can help you.” Madison said and skipped into the house.
“That was priceless.” Maria said laughing.
“Shut up.” Liz said but smiled and the two of them followed Madison into the house.
* * *
“Are you feeling better?” Max asked Liz an hour later when they were all in the backyard.
Liz nodded. “Yeah, I feel great. That thing Isabel made me drink was amazing.”
“See, alcoholic grandmothers are good for some things.” He told her laughing. Isabel had made her drink the same brown liquid she had forced on Alex. Max had never tried it. It looked like crap and smelled like it. But, it did the trick because Alex and Liz were feeling better.
The two of them were sitting alone at the patio table. Alex was standing at the barbeque cooking all the food, he wouldn’t let anyone help. Isabel and Maria were inside the house in the kitchen getting more drinks; none of them alcoholic. Madison was swimming the pool showing off to Michael who was sitting on the edge with his feet in the water.
“I wanted to thank you for last night.” Liz said and Max turned to see her blushing. “For getting me home.”
“It was my pleasure.” He said smiling and reached in his pocket for her keys. “These are yours.”
She took them from his hand laughing softly. “I really don’t remember getting home. Maria had to tell me in the morning that you brought me home.”
He laughed. “You were pretty out of it.”
“God.” She moaned and blushed even more. “I’m so embarrassed.”
“Don’t be. We’ve all been there.” He said and patted her hand. “You should really set a limit for yourself next time though.”
“Thanks, I’ll keep that in mind.” She laughed and then bit her lip. “I didn’t say anything stupid or embarrassing or anything, did I?”
Max hesitated as he remembered her comment about going to the football games. It wasn’t embarrassing, but he was still confused by it. She had been drunk though, she didn’t know what she had been saying. She couldn’t even remember.
“No.” He said shaking his head and the worry left her eyes. “You didn’t say anything.”
“Dad!”
Max turned to see Madison running over with Michael following behind. She came up beside him and wiped her dripping hair out of her eyes. “You should watch me flip in the water. I can go upside down. Right Uncle Mikey?”
Michael nodded and sat down beside Max. “She looks like a mermaid.”
“Okay, we’re going to eat soon though.” Max told her and felt water dripping on to his pants. “So, we’ll wait until after.”
“Okay.” She said nodding her head causing more water to drip on to him.
“You’re soaking me.” He said pushing her gently away. “Get out of here.”
She laughed at him and then moved closer and shook her head sending water spraying all over him. “Just giving you a shower.”
“Get out of here.” He repeated again laughing and pushed her away.
“I love you Daddy. Give me hug.” She said smiling wickedly at him.
He shook his head held up his finger at her. “No. You’re soaking wet.”
“But I want to hug you.” She teased taking a step closer. “I love you so much. Let me give you a hug.”
“Madison…” He said hearing Michael and Liz laugh. And then she jumped on him and wrapped her arms around him tightly while laughing hysterically. He could feel the water soaking thorough his shirt. He picked her up and flipped her so she was hanging upside down. “You’ll be sorry!”
“Help me!” Madison shrieked through her laughter and held her hands out to Liz who was sitting in front of her. “Help me Liz!”
Liz held up her hands trying not to laugh. “I’m sorry. You asked for it.”
“Somebody help me!” Madison cried and Max swung her gently from side to side. “I’m gonna puke.”
Max laughed because he knew that she wouldn’t.
“Oh, put her down Max.” Isabel called coming out of the sliding glass doors with Maria behind her. “All the blood is rushing to her head.”
“Yeah! The blood is going to my head!” Madison yelled and Max flipped her back up so he was holding her upright in his arms.
“That’ll teach you to mess with the Master.” He said kissing her forehead and letting her down.
She ran over to Isabel. “Thank you. No one else would help me.”
They all laughed as Madison pretended to glare at Liz and Michael.
Isabel looked down at her and sighed. “You’re lucky I helped you after what you did to me last night.”
Madison crossed her arms. “I thought you looked pretty.”
“It was hot.” Alex called over wiggling his eyebrows. They all laughed again, except for Madison who just shrugged and walked over to sit next to Michael.
Max sat back down as Isabel and Maria walked over and put a bowl of punch and some cups on the table.
“Okay,” Isabel said standing up straight. “I have something to show you guys.”
“Now?” Alex called from the barbeque and she nodded. He walked over to the table to stand beside her.
“I went and had my first ultrasound yesterday morning.” She announced happily. “They gave me a photo.”
She pulled out the photo excitedly. “It’s so amazing. You guys have to see it.”
So, they gathered around her. Madison sat up on her knees in the chair in front of Alex and Isabel. Michael, who was sitting beside her stood up and Maria moved in closer. Max and Liz walked around the opposite ends of the table and moved in to see.
“Isn’t it incredible.” Isabel said laughing.
Max smiled and narrowed his eyes at the black and white photo. He was so excited to see his niece or nephew, but he couldn’t make out the baby in the picture. But, he also hadn’t been able to make out Madison in hers until the doctor had pointed it out.
“I don’t see anything.” Maria said and Max was glad he wasn’t the only one. He looked to see Liz nodding in agreement.
“Where’s the head?” Michael asked and Max squinted at the photo along with him.
“Right here.” Isabel said pointing to a shadow. “There’s the head.”
“Yeah,” Max whispered, as the image finally began to come together. “I see the head.”
“And here’s the other one.” Isabel said pointing to another spot.
There was silence for a moment. Max stared at where his sister was pointing.
“Other what?” Michael said moving back looking confused.
“The other head.” Isabel said laughed. “We’re having twins!”
“What?” Max yelled and grabbed the photo out of her hand and inspected it closely.
“Let me see! Let me see!” Madison called from the chair and tried to grab it but he moved it out of her reach.
“Oh my God.” He whispered and looked up from the photo to see Isabel being hugged by Maria and Liz at the same time. Michael was staring at Alex in shock who was nodding his head grinning.
“I don’t believe this.” Max choked out and let Madison grab the photo from his hand. “Isn’t that supposed to like skip a generation or something?”
Isabel pulled away and looked at him smiling. “I don’t know how that works. All I know is that Mom had twins and now I’m having twins.”
“Holy shit!” Michael finally said and grabbed Alex laughing.
“Twins?” Max asked shocked and then began to laugh. “This is incredible.”
He grabbed his sister and hugged her tightly. “I can’t believe it. I’m in shock.”
“You’re not that bad.” She said pulling away from him. “Alex was worse. He fainted when the doctors showed us.”
Max turned to see Alex blushing and touching the bandage on his forehead. “I didn’t bang into the door. I hit the examination table on my way down. I couldn’t tell you guys. She made me swear so we could tell you together.”
“This is so exciting!” Maria said laughing and she and Liz grabbed Isabel again.
Max walked over and grabbed Alex and hugged him while swaying back and forth. “Congratulations Alex. You’re a father times two.”
“Scary isn’t it?” Alex said when they let go of each other. “I thought one was going to be hard.”
Max was going to tell him that he was going to be a wonderful father, but Madison’s voice cut through the air.
“Mom! You came!”
Max turned to see Madison running towards the back door. Suddenly the backyard was silent as everyone watched Madison throw her arms around her mother’s waist.
Tess was standing in the doorway looking shocked with an equally shocked Kyle Valenti standing beside her.
Thank you so much