Roswell Fanatics

Hey guys. I finally got Part 21 edited. Alot of you have been waiting for this part so I hope you like it. Let me know what you think, good bad whatever. I'll be posting in 2 parts for length. Thanks again for all the feedback it means alot.

Part 21

Isabel scrubbed the kitchen sink with great effort.

“I can’t believe that this kitchen has gotten this dirty in the few hours I took a nap.” She grumbled under her breath.

She tried to reach for the scouring powder in the corner of the counter. She stretched her arm and grunted but she just couldn’t reach it. It her belly was in the way.

Michael walked into the Kitchen and saw Isabel reaching for the scouring powder.

"Need some help." He said with a grin.

"Yeah." She said deflated.

Michael reached for the scouring powder and handed it to her.

"Should you really be doing this in your condition?" He asked with genuine concern.

"I can't have my baby born into a house of filth. Not to mention Kyle James." She said as she sprinkled the powder on the counter tops.

"KJ is only a week old. I don't think he'll be coming into the kitchen for a sandwich anytime soon." He said with a smirk.

Isabel gave him a dirty look.

"That’s not the point. He may not come into the kitchen but his things do. He's part alien. If he gets sick we can't just whisk him off to the pediatrician." She said and continued to scrub.

Michael could see that there was more to this then cleanliness. Something was bothering her.

"Iz, What's really bothering you?" He asked.

Isabel looked at him and sighed. She thought she had been hiding her feelings pretty well. Throwing herself into preparing for the baby's arrival and keeping the house clean for Kyle James.

She sat down on a chair at the kitchen table and pulled her hair back into a ponytail. Maybe she did need to talk about it.

"I'm scared." She finally said.

Michael pulled out a chair and straddled it.

"About what?" He asked.

"About this, all of this.” She said placing her hands on her belly.

“I'm going to have a baby at any minute and I'm scared. It wasn't supposed to be this way. We weren't supposed to have children with humans."

"No we were supposed to have them with each other but neither of us wanted that. Right?" He said as his body tensing slightly.

"Oh Michael that’s not it at all." she said with a laugh.

Michael’s body relaxed when he heard her laugh. He knew that Isabel thought of him as a brother but for a moment there well he didn't even want to go there.

“Iz you know that Liz checked KJ’s blood at the lab on campus and that it was human. He’s human.”

”I know but Michael I’m going to have to have this baby here. I won’t be able to go to a doctor.” She said rubbing her belly protectively.

Suddenly it dawned on Michael. Isabel was afraid she was going to die. It should have been obvious to him, to all of them. Tess was just like her and she had died. Of Course she was scared, who wouldn’t be.

“Isabel, your not Tess. Tess had KJ under difficult circumstances. It was just she and Kyle in the pod chamber of all places. You are going to be here with us.” He said trying to reassure her.

“But Michael what if something goes wrong? This baby is already coming into the world without a father…”

Michael took her hands in his.

“We will not let anything happen to you Isabel. I promise.” He said.

Isabel wiped the tears from her eyes. She was glad she had confided in Michael. He had come along way from the boy who just wanted to get the hell off this planet.

“Thank You.” She said.

“So how come your alone? Where’s your other half.” Isabel asked as she got up and went back to scrubbing the counters.

“She wasn’t feeling well so she went to go lay down.” He said and opened the refrigerator and poured himself a glass of milk.

“Is she alright, she seems to be a bit run down lately?” Isabel said.

“Yeah, she just needs to get more rest. Between the events of the last couple of weeks, the move and helping Kyle with KJ she’s just been running herself ragged.” He said as he took a bite out of a cookie.

Isabel watched as the crumbs fell to the floor. She stopped and gave him a death glare as she tapped her foot on the floor.

“What?” He said his mouth full of cookie.

Isabel took off the apron she had been wearing and handed it to Michael. Then she handed him the dustpan and broom.

“I’m tired. I think I’ll take a nap. This kitchen better be spotless when I get back or you will be cleaning it later.” She said as she waddled out of the room.

Michael watched as she left the room and then quickly swept up the crumbs. The last thing he wanted was to deal with a pissed off pregnant woman.

**************************************
Isabel walked to her dresser and pulled out a pair of faded maternity jeans and a pink and white maternity top.

She had been trying to nap for the last hour but hadn’t had much luck. She just couldn’t seem to get comfortable, no matter how many different positions she tried. And if that weren’t annoying enough her lower back had been killing her all day.

Maybe I shouldn’t have scrubbed the bathroom floor. She thought to herself as she pulled the maternity top over her head.

She looked at herself in the mirror. She couldn’t believe how much her body had changed. Gone was the figure that used to make men stop in their tracks.

When was the last time I saw my toes? She thought to herself as she looked down at the floor. She smoothed her hands over her belly and smiled. It’s worth it.

Happy at the way the outfit looked she head toward the door so she could go help with dinner. As she reached for the doorknob a spasm of pain ripped through her stomach.

She bent over grabbing her stomach and cringing in pain.

“Oww…” She moaned

The pain subsided and she took a deep breath. This must be it she thought to herself. She had had contractions before but nothing like this.

“It’s time.” She said and patted her belly. She started to walk out the door so she could get the others when another pain hit her. This time the pain was so unbearable she brought herself to a chair and sat down.

This isn’t good. She thought as the contraction subsided. Those contractions were less then 2 minutes apart. Again she tried to leave the room to get help and again a pain ripped through her.

“Owww..” She yelled. Her vision blurred from all the pain.

She began to panic. I need help. I can’t do this alone. I can’t die. My baby needs me.

“Isabel.” A voice said. “Calm down.”

She couldn’t see anything her vision was blurred from the pain.

As the contraction subsided her vision began to clear and a figure came into focus.

“Alex?” She asked.

“Am I dead?” She asked as tears began to run down her face.

“Shh, no Isabel. You’re not dead.” He said as he bent down next to her.

“ Then how are you here.” She asked and then another pain hit her.

“Owww…” She said gripping the sides of the chair.

“Isabel, look at me you have to breathe. In and out, In and out. That’s it.” Alex said coaching her through the contraction.

When the contraction finished she again turned toward him.

“How is this possible?” She said.

“I have special permission to be here.” He said as he quirked a grin.

“You didn’t think I would miss the birth of our only child did you?” He asked a broad smile spreading across his face.

“Oh Alex. I’ve missed you so much. It’s been so hard. Every time that something happened with the baby all I wanted to do was tell you.” She said tears now falling freely from her eyes.

“Shh, Bella don’t cry. I was there. I’m always there.” He said.

Another contraction ripped through her and again Alex coached her through it.

“It’s almost time. You need to get the others.” He said sweetly.

“You’ll stay won’t you?” She said her eyes locking with his.

“Of course I will. I’ll be by your side always. Now go before the next contraction comes.” He said.

She walked towards the door and opened it. She walked out into the hall and was hit by another contraction. She doubled over again but this time Liz was there.

“Oh God Isabel.” She said as she rushed over to help her.

“Max!!! Michael!!!” Liz yelled.

Kyle was the first one out in the hall. When he saw what was happening he immediately went over and helped Liz bring Isabel back to her room.

“Isabel, how long has this been going on for.” He asked as he helped her lie down on the bed.

“I think about a half hour. They are coming really quick.” She said through gritted teeth.

Kyle ran his hands through his hair nervously. He pulled Liz to the side.

“We need Max. She’s close.” He whispered.

“I thought he was downstairs. I’ll go check.” She said and ran out the door and down the stairs. As she reached the living room the door swung open and Maria and Michael walked in. They saw how Liz looked and panicked.

“What’s wr…” Maria began a mask of worry on her face.

“Isabel is in labor. Where is Max?” Liz said before Maria had even finished the question.

Michael ran for the stairs.

“He’s parking the car.” No sooner did she say it then Max walked in the door.

“Hurry up the baby’s coming.” Maria yelled at him.

It took a moment for what Maria had said to register but when it did he made a beeline for the stairs followed closely by Liz and Maria.

“How is she?” Max said as he came in the room and knelt down at the side of her bed.

Slowly he ran his hands over her body checking on both her and the baby.

“She’s delirious.” Michael said.

“She keeps talking to Alex.” He explained.

Maria’s hand shot to her open Mouth. Poor Isabel. Alex really should be here.

“I’m being strong Alex. The baby will be here soon.” Isabel said.

“I know she will love.” Alex said with a smile.

“She?” Isabel said.

“Oops.” Alex said covering his mouth and laughing.

She looked into his eyes and smiled.

“What I couldn’t wait. You know I was never good with surprises.” He said his grin getting wider.

“I’m glad you know.” She said and braced for another contraction.

“See what I mean. She’s having a conversation with him.” Michael said his voice filled with concern.

Maria placed her hand on his shoulder and tried to calm him.

“It’s only naturally that she would be thinking of Alex at this time.” She said.

“She’s not just thinking of him she is talking to him.” He said as he scratched his eyebrow with his middle finger.

“Maybe she does see him.” Maria said.

Michael raised his eyebrow at her.

“If anyone could span the distance of time to be here it would be Alex.” Maria said.

Max turned to the group as he finished examining Isabel.

“They both appear to be doing fine. The baby is in position and she should be ready to push soon.” He explained.

Kyle looked at the assembled group. He didn’t know what they were thinking but he knew what he was thinking. He was not going to let anything happen to this baby or Isabel. They had always planned to have Max deliver the baby but Kyle knew he needed to do it.

“Max, I think I should deliver the baby.” He said finally.

All four of there heads turned towards him.

“I’m the only one who’s experienced an alien/human birth. I can tell if something is going wrong.” He said before they had time to say no.

Max wasn’t so sure about this. Sure Kyle had been there when Tess had given birth but look how that had turned out. This was his sister.

“Max, I think that Kyle has a point.” Liz said placing a hand on his arm.

“He also is the one who read all those books on deliveries.” Maria chimed in.

“Let him do it Max.” Isabel moaned from the bed.

She had heard the conversation from the bed and Alex had told her to tell them to let Kyle help.

“Ok.” Max said.

“But I’m staying right here and if anything strange happens I’m taking over.” He added as he watched Kyle walk toward Isabel.

Kyle checked Isabel and could see the head.

“IZ, on the next contraction I want you to push as hard as you can.” He instructed her.

“You can do it Bella. Push he said and began to count 1, 2, 3…” Alex said helping her along.

“ARGG….” Isabel yelled as she pushed.

“Good the heads out.” Kyle yelled. “One more Push.”

“One more push and will see our baby. 1,2,3,…” Alex said.

The group watched in awe as the baby fell into his hands.

“It’s a girl.” He yelled and cut the umbilical cord.

Isabel looked at the baby and then looked at Alex. She was here their baby was here.

“She’s beautiful Isabel. Just like her Mom.” Alex said tears in his eyes.

“Isabel, look at me.” Kyle said.

Isabel did not want to move her eyes from Alex. If she did he might be gone.

“Isabel, look at me.” Kyle said again.

“Go ahead, I have a little more time.” He said urging her to look at Kyle.

She turned her head and locked eyes with Kyle.

“Isabel, You need to push one more time. We have to deliver the placenta or you won’t stop bleeding.” He said.

Isabel took a deep breath and gave a strong push. Kyle delivered the Placenta.

“That was great Isabel.” Kyle said with relief and held her hand.


“Everything seems to be fine.” Max said after checking her thoroughly.

Kyle released a breath he had been holding. She was fine. When Isabel’s labor had started memories of KJ’s birth had come rushing back to him. He was just glad this birth had turned out differently.

Isabel was already holding her new daughter when they all returned to her bedside.

“I would like you all to meet Alexandra Whitman Evans.” Isabel said a huge smile on her face.

“She’s beautiful Isabel.” Max said as he looked down on his new niece.

“Yeah.” Michael said.

“Alex would be so happy.” Liz said tears in her eyes.

“I wish he was here.” Maria said.

“He is Maria, he’s always here.” Isabel said as she smiled at Alex.

Suddenly they heard a cry come from down the hall.

“They’re playing my song.” Kyle said with a grin.

“Congratulations Isabel.” He said trying to hide the emotion in his voice.

“We really should give Mom and baby some time alone now.” Liz said.

“Do we have to?” Maria said as Michael and Max nodded their heads in agreement.

“Well it’s time for the princess to eat.” Isabel said.

“So KJ eats all the time.” Michael shrugged.

“KJ isn’t being breastfed.” Liz said waiting for their reactions.

Michael’s face went white.

“Well I think the Stanley Cup finals are on now.” He said as he walked towards the door.

“I’m with him. There are just some things a brother shouldn’t see.” Max said.

Maria, Isabel and Liz laughed as they watched the boys run from the room.

“If you need anything let us know.” Liz said as she and Maria turned to leave the room.

Looking back over her shoulder she couldn’t help but smile. Alex would have loved this she thought as she closed the door behind her.

Part 21 Continued
Stronger Together

Isabel cradled the baby in her arms. She was beautiful. She had her golden blond hair and blue eyes but from the nose down she was all Alex.

“She’s beautiful.” Alex said with a sad smile.

“I wish I could hold her.” He sighed.

Isabel sat up in her bed. “Alex hold out your hands.”

“Isabel I can’t. I’m not in physical form.” He said sadly.

“I won’t let her go but at least you could get a feeling of what it’s like.” She said.

Isabel reached the baby out to him, holding her in the palms of her hands. Alex moved his arms under her hands and softly cradled his daughter.

“Hi there princess. I’m your daddy.” He said tears in his eyes.

“I know that it’s sad that I won’t be here physically to watch you grow up but I want you to know that I will always be watching over you.” He said his voice full of emotion.

Isabel cried as he spoke softly to their daughter. This was all so unfair. He should be able to hold his daughter, at least once.

Suddenly Alex felt a tingling in his hands. It spread through out his body and suddenly he had taken physical form. He could feel his daughter in his arms.

Isabel looked on in amazement as she watched Alex fully materialize in the room.

“How?” She asked as she brought her hands to her mouth.

“I guess someone owes me a favor.” He said as he cradled Alexandra in his arms.

He walked over to the bed and placed his lips on Isabel’s. His lips were so soft and they tasted just as she remembered.

“Alex, I’ve missed you. This is so unfair.”

“Shh… Bella. I know.” He said as he brought his free arm up around her and cradled the baby in his other.

“I know it’s hard but we can’t change anything.”

“Alex, I don’t think I can do this without you.” She said tears falling down her face.

“Sure you can. You have so many people who love you and our daughter.” He said soothingly.

“There not you.” She said trying to prevent herself from going into hysterics.

“No they’re not but one day you will find someone and the pain won’t be so bad.” He said as he ran his hand through her hair.

“I’ll never love any one the way I love you. There will never be another you.” She said through her tears.

“You will Isabel. You’re to full of life to spend the rest of your life alone. I want you to be happy.”

Alex began to feel the tingle sensation in his body again. He knew it was almost time to go.
He placed a kiss on his daughter’s forehead and handed the baby to her mother.

“I don’t have much time left.” He said sadly.

“No Alex, don’t leave me. Please.” She cried.

“There is nothing more that I want to do then to stay here with you, both of you but that’s not what’s meant to be.” He said sadly.

Isabel’s head fell. She knew he had to go. Him just being here was a gift in itself but that didn’t mean it wouldn’t hurt when he was gone. It would always hurt.

He cupped her face in his hands and gently placed a kiss on her lips. It was slow and sweet and full of all the love he wanted her to carry with her for a lifetime.

“I’ll always love you.” He whispered in her ear.

He was beginning to fade.

“Isabel, I want you to be happy. Promise me you’ll be happy.” He said with urgency.

“I don’t want to live without you. I can’t be happy without you.” She cried.

“You have to live for our daughter. Promise me.” He said again.

“I have to go, take care of our precious angel. Tell her how much her daddy loves her. I’ll always be with you.” He said as he faded away.

“Alex.” She said as she pressed the baby against her. “I promise I’ll take care of her. She’ll always know all about her daddy.”

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

Kyle was walking past Isabel’s room on the way downstairs when he heard what sounded like soft crying.

Concerned he knocked on her door to see if she was ok.

“Isabel is everything all right.” He asked through the closed door.

Isabel had just finished feeding Alexandra and was laying her down in her bassinet when she had started to cry again. She had been crying on and off for hours since Alex had left her. Seeing him had been wonderful but at the same time she had come to fully realize what would never be.

She wiped the tears from her eyes and walked to the door.

“Hi Kyle.” She said as she opened the door.

Her eyes were red and swollen and he could see that she had been crying for a while.

“Isabel, are you ok?” He asked again.

“Yeah, I’m fine. It must be the hormones.” She said trying to cover.

Kyle looked at her a sad expression on his face. It wasn’t just hormones. If anyone knew what she must be going through it was him.

“You were crying for Alex.” He said sadly.

Isabel looked up at him tears again forming in her eyes.

“It’s just so unfair Kyle. She’s going to have to grow up without her dad.” She sobbed.

Kyle reached out and pulled her into an embrace.

“It’s ok Isabel. Everything is going to be ok.” He soothed.

“That’s just it Kyle. I don’t know if it will be ok. I don’t think I can do this with out Alex.” She sighed and wiped the tears from her face.

“You can do it. It will be hard but you will.” He said trying to reassure her.

“How? How do I raise a little girl without her Father? She supposed to be daddy’s little girl and wrap him around her little finger. She’ll never have that now.” She said sadly.

“You’ll do it the same way I’m doing it with KJ. God knows it’s not easy. Hell I still put his diapers on backwards sometimes but he gives me a reason to go on. Every time I wake up and I think I just can’t make it through the day without seeing Tess or touching her KJ is right there to remind me I’ll always have a piece of her. Then I pull myself together and put one foot in front of the other and start my day.”

“I’m so scared. What if I do something wrong?” She said.

“Iz, I’ve never cared for a baby in my life. I broke that egg they made you carry around school. Trust me if I can do it you can.” He said with a grin.

Isabel laughed.

“Seriously though, no ones the perfect parent. You just have to hope that you love them enough so that when you do make a mistake it doesn’t matter that much.” He said.

Isabel just stared at Kyle. When had he matured? In the space of a month he had gone from a wisecracking Buddhist jock to a sensitive, insightful, adult. I guess becoming a father makes you grow up pretty quickly. She thought to herself.

“Kyle, thank you. I really needed to get this out.”

“Isabel, you’re going to be a wonderful mother.” He said.

“Now can I see the little princess?” He asked as he walked over to the cradle.

“Go ahead pick her up.” Isabel urged.

“She’s beautiful. Hi there princess. I’m Kyle and have I got the perfect guy for you.” He said as he cooed at her.

Isabel laughed.

“Huh, my daughter and a Valenti.” Isabel scoffed jokingly.

“What he’ll have the Valenti good looks and the charm. What more could a girl ask for.” He said giving her a big grin.

“He’ll have to pass my tests before he goes out with my angel.” She said looking down at her daughter.

“Like I said, he has the Valenti charm. It will be a cinch.”

”We’ll see.” She said with a laugh.

This part jumps ahead in time about 1 month. Let me know what you think.

Stronger together
Part 22

Isabel sat on the living room sofa cradling Alexandra in her arms. The more time she spent with her the more she realized what a special gift she truly was. Alex may be gone but she would always have a piece of him with her. Even at four weeks old she had her father’s expressions. Most people say that baby’s this young can’t smile but Isabel knew that her daughter did and when she did it was her father’s smile on her face.

“I wish you were here Alex.” She said as she placed a kiss on Alexandra’s head.

The sweet moment between mother and daughter was interrupted by the sound of the doorbell.

Maria came out of the kitchen and walked toward the front door.

“Don’t worry Isabel I’ll get it.” She said as she waved Isabel off.

Maria opened the door and there stood a beaming Diane Evans with her husband who was wearing just as big a smile as his wife.

“Where is she? Where is my baby granddaughter?” She said as she walked into the house.

Maria gave her a smile. Isabel’s parents had been out to see the baby the minute they found out she was here. Mrs. Evan’s was not happy that Isabel had given birth in the house and wanted to make sure that her daughter and granddaughter were ok.

“Lexie, Grandma’s here.” Isabel said as she handed the baby to her mom.

Diane loved her children but she had always been sad that she missed their baby stage. Now she was getting the chance to experience it with her granddaughter.


“Isabel, she’s gorgeous.” Diane said as she placed a kiss on her forehead.

“I agree with your mother. She’s just as beautiful as her mother.” Philip said as he held his finger out for Lexie to hold.

“Mr. and Mrs. Evan’s can I get you anything.” Maria asked.

“No thank you Maria.” They said simultaneously.

“We saw your Mom and the sheriff at a rest stop on the way up here. They should be here any minute.” Diane said as she rocked the baby in her arms.

“I better give Kyle a heads up. Once my mom gets a hold of that baby he may never get him back.” She said with a laugh and then walked up the stairs.

“How are Kyle and his son doing?” Diane asked Isabel.

“There doing ok.” Isabel replied.

“So sad that poor babies mother died in child birth.” Diane said shaking her head sadly

“It’s a good thing that she had filled out the birth certificate papers naming Kyle as the father or they might have put the baby with child services.” Philip added.

After Kyle had brought KJ home they hadn’t known how they were going to explain him. Luckily Jim was able to call in some favors and get a birth certificate. They told the other parents that Tess had died in childbirth and that the authorities had contacted them after finding the paper work naming Kyle the father.

“It’s nice to have someone else who is going through the baby thing. Seems the baby’s are on similar feeding schedules so we have been keeping each other company at night.” Isabel said trying to steer the conversation away from Kyle and Tess.

“You breastfeed in front of him?” Her mother said in shock.

“No, mom. I pump for my night time feedings.” Isabel said with a laugh.

“Besides there is nothing wrong with breastfeeding it’s perfectly natural.” She added.

Philip adjusted himself in his seat. He didn’t like the idea of anyone seeing his daughter indisposed. He was about to put his 2 cents in when the bell rang.

“That must be Amy and the sheriff.” Isabel said and walked towards the door.

“Congratulations.” Amy and the sheriff said as she opened the door.

“Isabel, you look wonderful.” The sheriff said and pulled her into a hug.

“Thank you.” Isabel replied.

They moved into the living room and exchanged hellos with the Evan’s and cooed at the new baby. Jim placed the many bags he was holding on the floor next to the couch and Amy began rummaging through them. Finding what she was looking for she pulled out a box which was wrapped in pink paper and had a white bow on top.

“This is for you and the new baby.” Amy said with a smile.

Isabel opened the card first. Inside was a gift certificate to a local spa for a manicure and pedicure.

“This really wasn’t necessary. Thank you so much.” Isabel said a little shocked. She knew Maria’s mom but they weren’t close this was really nice of her.

“I know it’s hard to find time for yourself with a baby. This way you have a reason.” She said with a smile. Amy knew how hard it was to be a young mother after all she had only been 20 when she had Maria and she had her husband there, at least for the first 6 years anyway. If this helped her relax a bit she was glad she could help.

Isabel then turned to the package in front of her. Carefully she opened it and found a beautiful white sweater with pink butterflies and a matching pink skirt.

“This is beautiful. Thank you so much.” She said and hugged both Amy and Jim.

“So where is my daughter and the other little baby that lives here?” Amy asked.

“I’m right here and Michael’s right behind me.” Maria said jokingly as she walked down the stairs.

They all burst into laughter at Maria’s comment.

“Ha, ha. Very funny.” Michael said.

“Where is Kyle?” Jim asked.

“Here I am.” Kyle said as he came down the stairs the infant carrier in his left hand.

They all exchanged hello’s and then Amy just had to get her hands on KJ.

“Kyle give me that beautiful baby while you go through those bags over there. I picked up a bunch of stuff for the baby.” She said as she took the baby from Kyle.

“Well hello there cutie pie. Aren’t you just the sweetest little angel that was ever put on this earth.” She said as she held the baby out to look at him.

Kyle went through all the stuff that Amy hadn’t gotten him. It looked like she must have bought out the local children’s boutique and the sizes ranged from Infant to toddler. KJ wouldn’t need clothes for at least the next year.

”Amy this is too much.” Kyle began to say.

“Nonsense.” Amy interrupted him.

“Who better to spoil him then his new grandmother.” She said coyly.

“What!” Maria shrieked when she heard her mothers comment.

Kyle was a little shocked himself.

Maria grabbed Amy’s left hand and eyed a beautiful pear shaped diamond ring.

“You got engaged and didn’t tell me. Why didn’t you call me!! You should have called me immediately!! This is a huge event…” Maria rambled.

“Maria, it only happened last night and we wanted to tell you guys together.” Jim explained.

Maria blew a breath from her mouth. She was a little hurt that her mom hadn’t called her immediately but she saw how happy her mom was and didn’t want to spoil it. Plus she could understand them wanting to tell her and Kyle together.

“Let me see that ring again.” She said going over to her mom.

“You sure know how to pick them. This ring is gorgeous.” She said a huge grin breaking out on her face.

“Congratulations.” Maria said pulling her mother into a hug and then hugging Jim.

“Kyle?” Jim asked.

A lot had changed for Kyle in the last few weeks and he was unsure of how his son was going to react. He had been in love with Amy for a long time now and after seeing what his son was going through with the loss of Tess he decided life was to short and had impulsively bought the ring. He proposed to Amy over a candle light dinner at his house. She was so surprised she was at a loss for words, which was a rare event in itself. Jim hadn’t been this happy in a long time and he just hoped that Kyle could be happy for him.

Kyle’s face broke out in a big grin. He walked over and gave Amy a huge hug.
“KJ couldn’t ask for a better Grandma.” He said.

Tears welled in Amy’s eyes. It meant so much to them for their children to be happy for them.

“Well maybe he can call me something else I think I’m a little young to be called grandma.” She said teasingly.

With Kyle and Maria’s approval the room broke out in to a celebration. Everyone hugged the newly engaged couple and gave them their best wishes.

Max and Liz who had been asleep upstairs heard all the commotion and met each other in the hall on their way to see what it was all about.

“Hi.” Max said as he saw Liz coming from her room.

“Hi.” She said and smiled back at him.

“What’s going on?” She asked pointing towards the steps.

“I don’t know. My parents were supposed to come to see the baby today so it’s probably just them.” He said with a shrug.

Standing there for a moment just staring at each other Max wanted to reach out his hand and walk downstairs with her but he knew that there relationship was at a crossroads and he didn’t want to push her. No matter how much they tried to avoid the topic it would have to be dealt with but not know.

“Lets go down there and find out.” He said.

Michael spotted Max and Liz coming down the stairs and called them over.

“Hey guys Maria just got a new brother.” He said half laughing.

“What?” Max said confused.

“Jim and Amy got engaged.” Philip explained.

“Oh my God.” Liz yelled and ran over to Amy.

“It’s beautiful. I’m so happy for you.” Liz said and gave her a hug.

Liz was like a second daughter to her and she was glad that she could share this moment with her.

“Does my Mom know? She is going to be so shocked.” Liz said with a grin.

“We stopped by the crashdown this morning. Your Father offered to cater the wedding for us.” She said.

“I spoke to her a few minutes ago. That must have been why she rushed me off the phone.” She said with a laugh.

“She never was good at keeping secrets.” Liz added.

“Well I think we need to make a toast.” Max said as he emerged from the kitchen with 2 bottles of sparkling cider.

He poured the cider into glasses and Liz helped him hand them to everyone.

“To new lives and new Beginnings.” Jim said and raised his glass.

“To new Lives and New Beginnings.” They all repeated.

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

Maria and Michael walked up the walkway to the front of the house followed closely by Max and Liz and Kyle and Isabel. Their parents had insisted that they go out and have some fun. Kyle and Isabel had resisted at first not wanting to leave their respective children but after some urging they relented and went.

It had been a fun night. They had gone to the local Italian restaurant and had their favorite Italian dishes. It had been a long time since they had just had some fun and they had needed it.

When they got in the house they found both babies sleeping soundly in their cradles and the parents watching a movie on TV.

“How was dinner?” Philip asked from the couch.

“Great. We had a really nice time.” Isabel said as she went and took a peek at Alexandra.

“How were the babies?” Kyle asked in a soft whisper as he too checked on his sleeping son.

“The were sweet angels.” Diane replied.

“You weren’t kidding when you said that they both were on the same feeding schedule.” Diane said.

“They both started to cry for a bottle around 10 and then they both fell asleep at 11.” Amy said with a smile.

Amy looked up and saw her daughter standing next to Michael. Something wasn’t right. She was pale and she was gripping on to Michael’s arm for dear life. She got up and walked over to her daughter.

“Maria honey, are you feeling ok?” She asked placing a hand on her daughter’s forehead.

Maria wasn’t feeling great. She hadn’t been for quite a while. She had blamed it on the move and stress but now she just wasn’t sure.

“Yeah, I’m fine. Just really tired.” She said as she closed her eyes and then opened them again.

“Have you been taking your Echinacea?” Amy asked.

“Yes mom.” Maria said and then rolled her eyes.

“I think I better head up and get some sleep.” She said.

Her mother gave her a kiss on the cheek.

“Ok, I’ll see you in the morning.”

Maria turned and gave Michael a kiss.

“Goodnight.” She said and turned to walk to the stairs.

Every step took effort. Her legs felt like heavy weights were on them.

When she got to the steps she leaned on the banister. She began to see spots in front of her eyes and the sounds in the room began to seem farther and farther away. She turned to call Michael’s name but no words came out.

Michael sensed something was wrong immediately and turned to find Maria. He saw her lean on the banister and then sway from side to side.

“Maria!!” He yelled and ran toward her.

It was the last thing she heard before the darkness took her.

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

Michael made it to Maria just before she passed out.

Everyone else had joined them over by the steps with worried looks on their faces.

“Oh God. What’s wrong with her?” Amy cried.

Michael brought her over to the couch and looked at Max worry etched on his face.

“Mom dad would you go get us some wet cloths.” Max said trying to get his parents out of the room so he could check Maria out.

Jim saw what was going on and took Amy off to the side to comfort her.

Relieved that the sheriff had realized what he was planning he sat down and placed his hands on Maria’s head. He checked her whole body but found nothing abnormal.

“I can’t find anything.” He whispered.

“Well something is wrong she’s unconscious.” Michael said in an agitated voice.

“Here are those cloths.” Diane said as she handed them to Michael.” He placed one on her head.

“Maybe we should call an ambulance.” Liz said as she looked at her friend lying on the couch.

Suddenly Maria began to stir and moan.

“Maria, its Michael can you open your eyes?” Michael said as he ran his fingers across her cheek.

Maria’s eyes fluttered open slowly.

Michael let out a breath.

“What happened?” She asked as she looked around at everyone’s worried faces.

“You passed out.” Liz said.

“How do you feel now?” Her mother asked.

“Very weak.” Maria managed to say.

“I think we need to take her to the emergency room.” Liz said worried for her friend.

“I think that Liz is right.” Jim said.

“I’m sure it’s nothing but we should take her anyway.” Jim said pulling Amy into a hug.

“I’ll go get the car.” Jim said and walked to the door.

“Why don’t you all go? We’ll watch the babies.” Diane said gesturing to the rest of the group.

Kyle was nervous about leaving KJ but he really did want to go to the hospital with Maria. Maria was there for him so much these last couple of weeks and he wanted to be there for her now.

“Thank You. Mrs. Evan’s. All of KJ’s things are over on the changing table.” Kyle said.

They heard a honk and headed for the door. Michael was carrying Maria in his arms.

“You’ll be alright.” He whispered in her ear.

“I won’t let anything happen to you.”

Hello everyone Thank You so much for all of your feedback. It is greatly appreciated. This next part will be about Maria's condition. I got the idea from All my Children about the pheno type. So with out further adieu.

Part 23

It had been 2 hours since Maria had collapsed. In that time they had learned very little about her condition. The doctors had done some preliminary testing and had decided that Maria needed to be admitted. They had given some vague reason of her having very low blood pressure.

“We’ll know more after we run some tests.” The doctor had told them and disappeared behind the swinging doors.

After a half hour of waiting Michael had had enough and stormed through the doors. Max ran after him and found him speaking to some nurses.

“I want to see Maria Deluca.” He demanded.

“The Doctors in with her sir.” The nurse replied.

“The Doctors been in with her for an hour. I want to know what the hell is going on.” He yelled.

“Are you Family?” The nurse asked.

“Yes, I’m her boyfriend.” He yelled.

He could feel the energy building inside of him.

“I’m sorry, we can only give out information to blood relatives and spouses.” She said.

“Now please go back to the waiting room.” The nurse said sternly.

Max looked at Michael. He had shown great restraint till this point but Max could see he was about to explode.

“Thank You Nurse.” Max said and dragged Michael by force through the swinging doors and outside.

“Get the hell off me Maxwell. I want to see Maria!!” He yelled trying to pull himself from Max’s grasp.

“Michael the Doctors are just trying to do their jobs. They are taking good care of her.” Max said. He could only imagine how Michael was feeling. He didn’t know if there was anything in this world or his own that would keep him out of the hospital if it was Liz in there.

“They shouldn’t have to. Why couldn’t you heal her?” Michael said turning his anger on Max. As he spoke the light bulb above Max’s head exploded.

“Calm down Michael. I told you nothing was abnormal. There was nothing to repair.” He explained.

He didn’t take it personally. He knew that Michael was only getting his anger out and better at him then some poor unsuspecting nurse.

“Damn it we have all these powers and the one time I need them they are good for nothing.” Michael said deflated and sat down on a bench. He rubbed his face with his hands.

Max quickly sat down next to him. He had never seen Michael like this. His friend was scared. He could see it in his eyes as they filled with tears. Michael had always been searching for a family. He had finally realized that Maria was it and now he was faced with the possibility of losing her.

“She’s going to be OK Michael.” Max said as he placed a hand on his shoulder.

“I can’t lose her. I don’t think I can live with out her.” He said not caring that his emotions were showing through. He had spent to much time hiding his feelings.

Isabel walked through the door and stopped when she saw her brothers. Her heart ached for Michael. She knew what it was like to lose someone you loved and she hoped that Michael never had to know that pain.

“Michael the doctors said that Maria is asking for you.” She said as she walked over to him.

Michael quickly stood up and rubbed the tears from his eyes.

“Thanks.” He said and headed for the hospital.

“What did the doctors say?” Max asked his sister.

“They said that Maria’s Blood cell count is very low. They are waiting for more test results.” She said with a sigh.

Max ran his hands over his face and sighed. How had they gotten here? Only a few hours ago they were out laughing and having fun and now this.

“I can’t believe this is happening.” He said.

“I don’t know what Michael will do if anything happens to Maria.” He added.

“Nothings going to happen to her. It can’t. We can’t loose anyone else.” Isabel said and began to cry.

Max placed a comforting Hand on her shoulder.

“I’m ok.” She said pulling herself together and wiping the tears from her eyes.

“How’s everyone else doing?”

“The sheriff and Kyle are trying to be strong for Amy. She’s not doing to well. She went in to see Maria also.” She explained.

“And Liz, she is just zoned out. I’m worried about her.” Isabel said.

A look of concern crossed his face. He knew that Liz would take this hard but he had to help Michael.

“Max I know that things have been weird between you and Liz but she needs someone. She is just sitting there staring at the doors. It reminds me of when Alex died.” She said sadly.

Max stood up. Liz needed him. He would be there for her.

“Will you be ok?” He asked.

“I’ll be fine. Go to her.” Isabel said.


Liz sat in the waiting room and watched the swinging doors that led into the hospital wing where Maria was. Patiently she waited for any sign of the doctors who were helping her friend. She moved her eyes slowly from the door to her friends who were also waiting.

Sheriff Valenti sat holding Amy’s hand trying to comfort her. She was a mess. Maria was her whole life. A few feet away from them were Kyle and Isabel. Kyle had his hands on Isabel’s shoulders trying to comfort her. She was upset about Maria and concerned about Michael. Only a few minutes ago Max had to physically drag him from the hospital wing.

“This isn’t happening again.” She whispered and returned her gaze to the doors in front of her.

Liz jumped up to her feet when the doors swung open and a doctor appeared.

“Ms. Deluca.” The Doctor said and the small group surrounded him.

“Yes, How is my daughter?” She asked her voice trembling.

“We have her stabilized. Her blood pressure is very low and so is her white blood cell count.” He said.

“Well what does that mean.” Kyle grumbled.

“We’ll know more when we get the test results back.” He said.

“You can see her now. She’s been asking for you and someone named Michael.” He said and turned to head back into the hospital wing.

“I’ll go get Michael.” Isabel said and rushed to get Michael.

Liz watched as the Doctor and Amy disappeared behind the swinging doors.

She sat down and buried her face in her hands.

“This isn’t happening. I can’t lose her.” She mumbled.

“Are you ok?” A voice broke through her thoughts.

She looked up and saw Sam standing before her.

“Elizabeth are you ok?” He asked as he sat down next to her.

“They brought my best friend in a little while ago. She collapsed.” She explained.

“Maria?” Sam asked. Liz didn’t talk much about herself but when she did she always mentioned her friend Maria.

“Yes. They are waiting for some test results. There not sure what is wrong with her.” He explained.

“What are you doing here?” She asked.

“I work here.” He replied.

She vaguely remembered him saying he worked as a lab assistant at a hospital.

“Maybe I can pull some strings and get her tests looked at faster. The labs a bit backed up.” He said.

“Could you?” She asked hopefully.

“Yeah, they like me down there. I think I can do it.” He said with a smile.

Liz looked at him and smiled back. She was glad he had seen her. Everyone had someone to lean on it was nice not to be alone.

“Are you going to be ok?” He asked the concern evident in his voice. She didn’t look well. She was pale and her eyes were swollen.

“Yeah, I’ll be ok. Maria has been my best friend since grade school. I would do anything for her.” Liz said.

“I’ll make sure they do those tests ASAP.” He said.

“Do you need anything before I go.” He asked.

“No.” She replied and then she did something out of the ordinary for Liz Parker. She hugged him.

“Thank You. You have no idea how much this means to me.”

“Anytime. I’ll come back and check on you in a little bit.” He said as they ended their embrace.

***********************************************************
Max walked into the waiting area and his eyes searched out Liz. His body tenses when he found her sitting with a dark haired man he did not recognize. He watched as Liz talked to the man. She seemed so at ease with him.

He thought about whether he should go over, but decided he would what until they were done. Silently he watched and waited. Then Liz did something he never expected she hugged him. He didn’t hug her she hugged him. Liz, his Liz was wrapped in another man’s arms. He felt the bile rise in his throat.

He couldn’t watch this. It felt like all the air was being sucked out of the room. He needed air. Quickly he turned and rushed out the doors into the night air.

Isabel watched as her brother came rushing out.

“What’s wrong? Where is Liz?” She asked with concern.

“Nothing everything’s fine. Liz doesn’t need any help.” He said sarcastically.

“She’s already got some.” He mumbled under his breath.

“Max…” Isabel started but he cut her off.

“I’m going for a walk. If Michael comes out come find me.” He said and stormed off.


Michael and Amy sat next to Maria’s bed. She had been this way since they had gotten to her room. Michael saw Amy begin to cry softly. He reached out the hand that wasn’t holding Maria’s and placed it on top of hers.

“She’s going to be ok.” He said.

Amy looked at him. She remembered how strong and compassionate he had been for Maria after Alex died and now he was doing the same for her. In that moment Amy knew that Michael was the perfect man for Maria.

“I just don’t know what I’ll do if anything happens to her.” She said and squeezed his hand tighter.

“I don’t understand how this could happen. She was always so strong and healthy. I mean sure she had a cold here or there but nothing ever this serious.” Amy added.

“She’s strong and a fighter.” Michael said trying to convince her and him.

“I have to be to date you.” A soft voice came from the bed.

Maria opened her eyes and slowly her mother and Michael came in to focus.

“Maria.” Michael said.

“Oh sweetie your awake. How are you? Do you need anything? I should call the doctor.” Amy said as she stood up and began to move around the room.

“Mom, I was asleep I didn’t just wake up from a 19 year coma.” She said weakly but with a smile.

“I just want to make sure that your comfortable.” Her mother said and sat down next to her.

Maria smiled and tried to sit up in her bed. Michael quickly moved to her side and helped her.

“The doctor says your blood pressure is very low. They are running some tests to see what they can do about it.” Amy told her daughter.

“I guess I shouldn’t have stopped taking my multi-vitamin.” Maria said

Amy gave her daughter a half-hearted smile.

“Mom I’m going to be fine. I just need rest that’s all.” Maria said.

Michael looked at Amy out of the corner of his eye.

“I know but I’m just a nervous mother hen.” She said and smoothed her sheets.

“Well I see our patient is awake. How are you feeling?” The doctor said as he walked into Maria’s room.

“I’m a little tired.” Maria admitted.

The doctor checked her chart, took her blood pressure and examined her eyes with a small light.

“Why don’t you try and get some rest while I talk to your mother.” The doctor said and motioned to Amy.

Michael kissed Maria on the forehead and followed the Doctor and Amy into the hall.

“So how is she?” Michael asked when he entered the hall.

“I’m sorry Mr…”

“Gurein.” Michael added.

“Mr. Guerin I can only discuss Maria’s condition with family members.” He said.

Michael could feel the energy building inside of hi. Didn’t any of these people understand that Maria was his family?

“That’s ok Doctor Michael is family.’ Amy interjected with a smile.

“Ok Ms. Deluca.” The doctor said.

Michael’s body relaxed and he listened to what the doctor had to say.

“Maria had what we would call a slow bleeder. She had trauma to her right leg, which caused a small tear in her blood vessels. Now that healed fine but what it led to was her losing some blood and for some reason her body wasn’t able to compensate for that loss.”
The doctor explained.

As the doctor continued his explanation Michael franticly searched his brain for when Maria had hurt herself. Then he remembered. When they were packing for their move Maria had taken a tumble down some steps in her house. She had insisted she was fine but after a few days of limping Michael had taken it upon himself to heal her while she was asleep.

“So what is the treatment for this?” Amy asked rousing Michael from his own thoughts.

“The patient usually receives a blood transfusion and spends a few days in the hospital.” The doctor continued.

“So give her the transfusion. What are you waiting for?” Michael demanded.

“There is a small problem. Maria is AB – blood type. That in itself is not the problem it’s her pheno-type that is rare. Currently the Blood bank in Albuquerque doesn’t have any in its banks. Our best chance is a relative donating.” He said.

“Well I can donate.” Amy said.

“If you have the same blood type we could use your blood.” The doctor said.

“Is there any other family? Perhaps Maria’s father.” The doctor asked.

Amy paled. She didn’t have much family just her sister and nephew and Maria’s Father she hadn’t heard from since she signed the divorce papers and she hadn’t seen his family since their wedding.

“I have a sister and nephew in Nevada. I’m sure they will want to be tested also. As for Maria’s father we haven’t heard from him in ages.” She said.

“Doctor what happens if you can’t find a match?” Michael asked.

“Let’s get Ms. Deluca tested before we go down that road.” He replied.

“I really need to know.” Michael said a little agitated.

“Please Doctor.” Amy pleaded.

“If we can’t get her a transfusion and her body doesn’t start to produce more blood cells on its own then we could lose her. But that is only…” The doctor continued to talk.

Michael’s head began to spin and he felt his legs get weak. This couldn’t be happening. He couldn’t lose Maria. Michael raised his hand towards his head and the light above them shattered shocking all of them.

********
Liz sat alone in the waiting room twirling her hair with her finger. Isabel and Kyle left to go home and check on the babies. The Sheriff was on the phone with the sheriff department making arrangements for his absence. As for Max well she really didn’t know where he was. The last she had seen of him he was with Michael.
So there she sat, alone with her thoughts and alone with her fears.

Sam had just finished his shift and decided that he would go check up on Elizabeth before he headed home. He spotted her in the waiting room where he had left her earlier. She looked tired and you could tell she had been crying.

“Hi, How are you doing?” He asked as he approached her and sat down.

Liz hadn’t heard him approach and was startled by his voice.

“I’m ok, a little tired, a little worried but ok.” She said and ran her hands though her hair.

“They have some of the best doctors here. She’s in good hands.” He said trying to reassure her.

Liz smiled back at him.

“I’m going to introduce the two of you. You would really like her. Everyone does.”

“I would like that. She must be a really good friend.”

“The best. She’s more like a sister now. We have been inseparable since elementary school. I was shy and quiet and Maria was the total opposite. She knew everything about everyone and if you got on her wrong side heaven help you.” She said as she laughed at the memory.

“I’ll make note of that.” He said with a chuckle.

“But if you are her friend she would go to the end of the world and back. She always stood by us. We were the three musketeers.” She said lost in her memory.

“Who was the third?” Sam asked bringing Liz back to the present.

“Hmm?” She asked.

“The third musketeer. Was it the blond I saw here before?” He asked.

Liz felt guilty. She had gotten so caught up in her memories that she forgot rule number one of the alien code; don’t give out to much information. It made her angry. Her friend was sick and she was trying to seek comfort with someone she considered a new friend and it always comes back to that. Well she was tired of it. Max was nowhere to be found and she needed someone.

“No that’s my friend Isabel. We didn’t become friendly till High School. No the third Musketeer was our friend Alex.” She said with a sigh.

“Does he live with you too?” He asked.

“No. He died in a car accident a little over a year ago.” She said sadly.

“I’m so sorry.” He said only now fully realizing why she was taking Maria’s condition so hard.

“I have an idea. Why don’t I sneak you in to see her.” He said standing up.

She looked up at him with excitement.

“Can you do that? I don’t want to get you in trouble or anything.” She said hope evident in her voice.

“For you anything.” He said and reached out his hand to help her up.

The headed through the swinging doors and down the corridor leading to Maria’s room. As they got closer she could make out Michael and Amy talking to the doctor and they did not look happy.

As they got closer a light bulb above their heads sparked and shattered.

“What the hell.” Sam said when he saw the burst.

Now Liz knew something was terribly wrong. She picked up her pace and ended up in a slow jog.

“Elizabeth?” Sam asked as he watched her race up the corridor.

When she reached them she placed her hand on Michael’s arm.

“Michael, calm down.” She whispered.

He looked down at her. The look on his face made her heart start beating rapidly. In all the time that she had known Michael she had never seen him look like this, not when they were being chased by the FBI, not even when they faced the skins and Nicholas. Michael’s face was filled with fear and it terrified her.

“What’s wrong?” She asked.

“Young lady you can’t be here.” The Doctor said.

Sam came up quickly behind her.

“She’s with me.” He said.

As if that were enough the Doctor continued the discussion with Amy and Michael.

“Let’s get you tested and then will cross the other bridges when we come to them.” He said looking at Amy and then Michael.

“Ok. Where do I have to go?” Amy asked as she wrapped her arms tightly around her body.

“Follow me.” He said and he and Amy walked toward the lab.

“Michael are you ok?” Liz asked.

“Yeah. Who are you?” He asked suspiciously as he eyed Sam.

“This is Sam my lab partner from the university. He works here and helped get Maria’s blood test results faster.” Liz explained.

Michael looked at Sam. He didn’t know who he was and right now he didn’t care.

“Thanks.” He said and then turned to Liz.

“Can you stay with her for a little while? I have something that I have to take care of.”

“Sure no problem. I’ll tell her you’ll be back later.”

With that Michael turned around and left.

Liz turned around toward Sam.

“Thank You so much for everything.” She said.

“You take care of yourself. Don’t worry about any of the nurses or doctors bothering you. I will take care of it.” He said.

Liz smiled at him.

“Go in and see your friend. I have a shift tonight I will come by and see you then.” HE said and turned to walk away.

“Sam, Thank you again.” She yelled to him.

“Anytime.” He shouted back and watched as she went into Maria’s room.

HEy Guys Thank You all for the feedback. I will make full responses on Friday or Saturday when I post the next full part. I noticed that all of the last part wasn't posted there was one part that I forgot to put in so here it is. It is just a little conversation between Maria and Liz. Hope you like it.
Roswck

Stronger Together

“Hi, Maria. How are you feeling?” Liz said as cheerful as possible as she walked into the room and sat down.

“Hey Chica. I’ve had better days.” She said with a weak laugh.

“Where are Michael and my Mom?” She asked.

“Your Mom is with the doctor and Michael told me to tell you he would be back later. He had to run an errand or something.” She said.

“What could he possible have to do?” She said a little upset. She knew that Michael loved her but there was always this voice in the back of her head which whispered “He’s going to leave they always do.”

“Maria, don’t do that. Michael has been here all night. He’s been so worried about you. When you were here by yourself he stormed to the nurses station and demanded o see you. Max had to take him outside and calm him down. He probably just went home to shower and change.” Liz said.

“Did he really demand to see me?” She said a smile spreading across her face.

Liz nodded and the two girls laughed.

“So how did you get in here? The nurses and doctors here are like police. They almost wouldn’t let Michael stay.” She said as she made a face.

“I have connections.” She said with a mischievous smile.

“Oh really. What kind of connections would that be?” Maria asked her curiosity piqued.

“You know my lab partner Sam?”

“The one who showed you around at school and has the rich grandfather.” Liz asked.

“Yea…” She started to say.

“Don’t tell me he owns the hospital. I can’t believe it….” Maria began to ramble. Even in her weak state she could still Maria babble. It made Liz smile.

“No, he doesn’t own the hospital. He just works here in the lab.” She interrupted her rant.

“He pulled some strings and got us your test results a little quicker.” She added.

“He’s doing favors for you. Hmmm..” Maria started.

“Maria…” Liz started in a warning tone. She knew that look.

“Do you like him?” She asked.

“Of course I like him. He’s my friend.” She said matter-of-factly.

“Liz, you know that is not what I mean.”

“I don’t know. I feel so normal when I’m with him. Everything is so uncomplicated when I’m with him. I can just be me. I don’t have to worry that the next step I make is going to influence the world.”

“You do like him.” Maria said.

“He’s sweet, kind, funny, and god knows he’s good looking…”

“But he’s not Max.” Maria finished for her.

Liz frowned. How did Maria always know what she was thinking?

“Chica, no one is ever going to be Max. He saved your life and the 2 of you have been through more then the average teenage romance. You have to decide what you want. If you want normal that’s not Max.” She said.

“Ugh, I know!! Sometimes all I want is to be a normal college student with normal problems but then I also miss the way I feel when I’m with Max. The way he looks at me as if I’m the only person in the room. The way my body just naturally gravitates to him when we are near each other. The way his lips feel on mine. I just can’t get him out of my system.” She sighed.

“I don’t know what you’re going to do. You feel that way and you haven’t even slept together.” She snorted and shook her head.

“Who hasn’t slept together?” Amy asked as she walked through the door.

Maria and Liz both turned 3 different shades of red.

“Liz and Kyle.” Maria said.

“What?!” Amy blurted out and Liz spun her head around to look at her best friend.

“Not like that Mom. I slept in the same room as Kyle for a couple of nights to help with the baby. He is a real bad snorer. Liz said he couldn’t be that bad and I said you haven’t slept with him yet.” Maria said.

That’s my Maria always thinking on her feet, even when she is sick. Liz thought to herself.

“Oh ok.” Amy said accepting her daughter’s explanation.

“But just to be on the safe side I think that there should be no more coed sleeping arrangements. We already have 2 babies, we don’t need anymore.” She added.

“Trust me, you have nothing to worry about.” Liz said and laughed.

TBC
Look for the next Part Friday or Saturday

Sorry for the delay we had a power outage. JUst a reminder I am a dreamer at heart so don't be to upset by this part. Also don't forget to check out Part 23B if you haven't already.

Stronger Together
Part 24

“Ms Deluca, are you ok?” The doctor said with concern in his voice.

Amy leaned her body up against the wall. She knew that if she moved even the slightest bit she might collapse.

“Your not a match.” The words were bouncing around inside her head, repeating over and over.

“Ms. Deluca? Maybe we should move into my office down the hall.” He said.

Jim walked up the corridor towards Maria’s room. It had taken some doing but with his sheriffs credentials and a little bit of the old Valenti Charm he was able to get in. He saw Amy and immediately knew something was wrong. He rushed to her side.

“Amy, are you ok?” He asked as he reached for her and pulled her into his arms.

“Oh Jim.” Amy said as she buried her head into his chest.

Jim pressed her tightly to him. Amy was in bad shape.

“I’m Dr. Sarsen, and you are?” The doctor said.

“Sheriff Jim Valenti. I’m Maria’s stepfather.” He said without hesitation.

“What’s wrong?” He added with authority.

“Unfortunately, Ms Deluca is not a blood match for her daughter, nor are her relatives in Nevada.” He continued.

“So now what do we do?” He asked.

“Are you sure that you can’t get in contact with her father? If you are not a match he is our best chance of a direct match.” He said.

“I told you I haven’t seen or heard from him in almost 12 years. I wouldn’t even know where to start.” She said with anger in her voice. “ Damn that bastard.”

“Well we are searching the blood banks throughout the country to see if we can find a match. In the mean time I suggest that you encourage everyone that you know to donate blood. Maybe will get lucky. I will do everything in my power to help Maria.” He said.

“Thank You Doctor.” Jim said as he shook the man’s hand.

Amy pulled away from Jims embrace and began to pace. Jim recognized the signs of Mt saint Amy about to erupt and quickly pulled her away from Maria’s room and into an empty one.

“I can’t believe this. Twelve years I’ve raised her with no help from that worthless excuse of an ex. I’m the one who comforted her through her hysterics when he abandoned us for no apparent reason. I’m the one who helped her through her first crush, her first kiss, her first broken heart when she realized he was really never coming back and now that Bastard is the only one who can save her.” She yelled letting out 12 years of anger and frustration.

Jim looked at his fiancé and his heart broke. He had to do something.

Pushing all his jealousies and insecurities aside he made a decision.

“I’ll find him.” He said.

“What? How are you going to find him? I haven’t heard a single thing from him since he sent me the divorce papers 12 years ago and even then he had a lawyer deliver them. Can you believe that 7 years of Marriage and he has a stranger bring the divorce papers with a note” “I’m sorry it has to be this way. Tell Maria I love her.” Coward. If he loved her he would have said goodbye, he would have called her on her birthday…” Amy began to rant again.

“Amy.” Jim interrupted placing his hand on her arm.

“I’ll find him. I won’t let anything happen to Maria. She’s my daughter now.” He said and pulled her into his arms again and Amy finally let her tears flow.

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

Max walked into the waiting room to find the Sheriff and his dad on cell phones papers strewn all around them.

He spotted his mother over by the Coffee machine and headed towards her not wanting to disrupt whatever the older men were doing.

“Max, where have you been?” His mother asked.

“I’ve been here for over an hour. I was starting to get worried.” She said.

“I was just out walking.” He said.

“So what’s going on here?” Max said as he pointed to the Sheriff and his father.

“They’re trying to find Maria’s father.” She explained.

“Why?” Max said as he swallowed the lump that appeared in his throat.

“She needs a blood transfusion and he’s her best chance.” She explained.

Max shook his head. They were pinning their hopes on a man who had abandoned his wife and daughter. He felt so helpless even with all his other worldly powers there was nothing he could do but just sit and wait.

“Have they found anything yet.” He asked finally.

“No they keep running into dead ends. This man obviously does not want to be found.” Diane said shaking her head.

Max ran his hands over his face.

“Don’t worry those 2 won’t stop till they find him.” She said and placed her hand on his shoulder.

“Have you seen Liz? I want to see how she is doing.” Max said.

He had a chance to cool down since before and realized he was probably just overreacting. He had come back to find her and make sure she was ok.

“I think she went down to the lab to donate blood.” She said.

“I’m going to head over there.” He said giving his mother a kiss on the cheek.

“Ok. I probably won’t be here when you get back. Isabel and Kyle want to get back here so I’m going to watch the babies.” She said.

“Ok, I’ll see you at home.” He said.

Max navigated the long corridors of the hospital in search of the lab. He couldn’t believe that a hospital could be this confusing.

“How does anyone find there way around here.’ He mumbled to himself.

“Promise you won’t hurt me.” He heard Liz’s voice coming from one of the rooms in the corridor he had just entered.

“It will just be a pinch. I promise.” A woman’s voice replied.

Max walked into the lab. The curtain was pulled but he could feel Liz was behind it.

“Don’t tell me you’re afraid of needles Elizabeth.” A male voice said.

“I can’t believe it Ms. Science herself is afraid of a needle.” He said with a little humor in his voice.

“I just don’t like being used as a pin cushion thank you very much and I wouldn’t get so comfy you promised me you would donate also. Lets see your face when the roles are reversed.”

“Me big strong Man, Me no afraid of needle.” He said with a grunt and then he and Liz both burst out laughing.

Max stood and listened to the exchange between Liz and whom he could only assume was the man she was sitting with before. His whole body tensed as he listened to the ease in which they talked to each other. We used to talk like that he thought. It was quite clear to him that Liz was doing just fine and the last thing he wanted was to have to see her with this guy so he turned to walk away.

“See that wasn’t so bad.” The nurse said as she swung open the curtain.

“Can I help you?” She said as she spotted Max in the doorway.

Slowly he turned around. He took in the site before him. Liz was lying on a table her arm bent to stop the bleeding from where they had taken her blood. On the other side of her sat the guy from the waiting room and he had his hand lying gentle on top of hers.

Max swallowed the lump of bile that filled his throat at the site.

Liz knew whom the nurse was talking to before she even turned her head. Her eyes locked with Max’s and she quickly moved her hand from under Sam’s and tried to sit up.

Sam was startled by her sudden movement and turned to see what had caught her attention.

“Max.” She said.

“Elizabeth, you really shouldn’t sit up you just gave a lot of blood.” He said looking at her with concern.

“Hi, Liz.” He said not breaking her gaze.

“Max this is Sam. He is in my Intro to Molecular Biology Class.” She said when she finally got her voice back.

So that’s how she knows him he thought to himself.

“Hey.” Max said and nodded his head never taking his eyes off Liz.

Sam watched the scene before him. This Max was obviously more than just a friend of Elizabeth’s. I guess he’s my competition. The thought popped in his head and he slightly shook his head wondering where it had come from.

“Nice to meet you Max. Are you here to give blood also?” He asked trying to make conversation.

That one comment was able to jolt both Liz and Max from their silent world.

“What? Oh no. I can’t.” He said nervously.

“Another one afraid of needles.” Sam said.

Max just glared at him. Who the hell was this guy?

Liz saw the look Max gave Sam and knew she needed to do something before things got out of hand.

“Max has severe anemia. He can’t give blood.” Liz said.

Sam nodded and looked back at Liz.

“How are you feeling?” He asked and placed a hand on her arm.

“I feel fine.” She said.

Max cringed as he saw Sam touch Liz.

“Excuse me Sam, will you take these down to the lab for me?” The Nurse said interrupting their conversation.

He looked at Liz.

“I’ll find you later. Make sure you eat something in an hour.” He said.

LIz gave him a smile and a nod.

“Nice meeting you Max.” He said never taking his eyes off Liz.

Max and Liz watched as he left the room.

The Nurse came over and checked Liz’s blood pressure.

“You seem to be doing really well. Why don’t you get up and try and walk around. I’ll be back in a few minutes to check on you.” She said.

The nurse left and they were alone. The tension was thick in the air. Max was the first to break the silence.

“Lab partner huh.”

Liz nodded her head and waited. It was just a matter of time.

“Liz, do you really think this is a good time to be making new friends?” He said.

And there it was. She couldn’t believe the words came out of his mouth but there they were. She could feel the fire begin to burn inside her. Where did he get off? She had enough. She was sick and tired of letting other people run her life.

“And when exactly would be a good time Max? When am I supposed to live my life? He’s my lab partner for God sakes. He works in this hospital. What am I supposed to do ignore him?” She said her words dripping with anger.

“He looked a little bit more then a lab partner to me.” He said his tone dry.

“Oh God. Is that what this is about. You’re right he is more then a lab partner he’s my friend. And he’s been there for me. That’s what friends do. They stand by each other. They help each other.” She said pointedly.

Max knew that tone. He had been there for her when he was not. That is what she was implying.

“Well I was dealing with a little situation with Michael.” He started to say but Liz cut him off.

“That’s the problem there is always a situation.” She said with a sigh.

She looked up and met his eyes, those soulful eyes that had seen so much. She had been there through it all, always supporting him but now she was tired, tired and angry.

“My Best friend, the only one I have left is in there fighting for her life and I just don’t have time to deal with your insecurities. Everything is not about you! Sam is my friend. Just a friend and even if he was more then a friend there isn’t anything you can do about it. You lost that right a long time ago. When my other best friend was killed and instead of believing in me you chose to abandon me and turn to Tess.”

It was out. Everything that had been bottled up inside of her for over a year came spilling out. She knew that she might regret this moment later, it might haunt her but in that moment she felt liberated, like a huge weight had been lifted from her body.

Max stood in silence, shell shocked by what he just heard. He always knew that this moment would come. They had tiptoed around it for over a year but it was always there like an invisible wall between them. He had expected her to confront him right away but she never did. She did what she always did she stood by him. It was more then he had done for her and that still tore him up inside.

“Liz I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to abandon you. It was so hard for me to believe that what happened was caused by us. It meant I had failed everyone. I had failed you.” He said as his head fell.

“Do you know how it feels to have the one person you love most in the world call you a liar?” She said slowly.

“We lost more than Alex that day we lost the Innocence of us.” She added tears now falling freely from her eyes.

It was true through everything, Destiny, future Max and everything in between she had always believed in them. She had blind faith in who they were and what they meant to each other. She lost that; they lost that the moment she was forced to deal with Alex’s death alone.

“Liz, I never meant to hurt you.” He said.

He wanted to reach out and hold her touch her make the pain go away but he couldn’t. He was the cause of that pain. How many times had he told her he was sorry? How many times had he hurt her? How could he blame her for wanting something better than this? In the back of his mind he always knew she would realize it eventually. It’s why he had those dreams and now he could put a face to the man, Sam.

Liz knew that Max meant the words that he said but that didn’t take away her hurt. They were at a crossroads now. She didn’t know what would happen between them but right now it didn’t matter. What mattered was Maria and making sure she got well.

“Listen Max, I didn’t mean to bring this all up. I just want a chance to live my life. This is the past, I want to live in the present and look forward to the future.” She said.

Max heart ached at the thought of a future without Liz. One where he had to sit back and watch her with someone else, just like he did at night in his dreams.

“You’re right. It is your life. I just let my emotions get the better of me.” He said and ran his hands over his face.

”That’s going around.” She said with a forced smile that eased some of the tension between them.

“Have they found any leads yet on Maria’s father?” She asked.

“Not that I know of.” He responded.

“Do you think they will find him?” He asked her.

“I don’t know. It has been a long time. I hope they can. He may be her only hope.” She said sadly.

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

In an office in Tempe Arizona a man sat in his corner office. He had Ash Blonde hair and Dark Green eyes.

To anyone who might pass by his office it would appear that he was doing his daily work. However if they took a closer look at his face they would see much more. This man was not happy.

He flipped through the fax on his desk and sighed loudly to himself.

“All that Work and now this. Why do people have to go snooping around where they are not supposed to be?”

Quickly he glanced at the framed photo of a woman and a little girl and the reached for the phone.

“Gretchen, please book me on the next flight to New Mexico and cancel all my appointments for the next week.” He said.

He hung up the phone and grabbed his overcoat. He was determined to find out who was undermining all his work and why?

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

Rian sat at the ships control. It was an intricate computer with 2 monitors and about 25 switches and knobs that controlled various systems on board the ship. He listened intently to the sounds that the controls made when he checked the system. He was checking and double checking the systems because he wanted to make sure everything was in working order before they approached earth’s orbit.

He was so engrossed in his system check that he didn’t hear Kristiana enter the control room. She walked over and placed her arms around his neck.

“Hey sleepy head. How are you feeling?” He said looking up at her.

She yawned and stretched her long arms behind her head.

“Good but I’m still a bit groggy.” She admitted.

“That will wear off soon. The hibernation can take a lot out of you.” He said and turned his attention back to the controls.

“How much longer till we get there?” She asked the excitement evident in her voice.

“It could be anywhere from an hour or two. I enabled the cloaking device as soon as I awoke so I was able to pick up speed without attracting any unwanted attention. They really spared no expense with this ship.” He said.

Kristiana sighed and looked out at the earth through a window in the control room.

“Do you think they are alright?” She asked him.

“I’m sure they are fine. It’s only been a month. Stop worrying.” He said.

“I’ll try. I think I’ll do something to take my mind off of it like go through the wardrobe they supplied me with. I can’t believe they made me all of these earth clothes.” She said giddy with excitement.

Rian shook his head and laughed.

“Women and clothes, I don’t understand it.” He said with a laugh and then went back to his controls.

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

Michael surveyed the mess in the room around him. There were clothes CD’s and Boxes strewn all over the flower in his room.

“Damn it. Where did I pack it? I know it is here.” He said as he blew some air from his lips.

He walked over to the closet and pulled out another box. This is the last one. It has to be here. He thought to himself.

As he sifted through the items in the box he could here Maria’s voice in his head: “You better start unpacking spaceboy because one day your going to need something and not be able to find it.”

He wished she were here right now to tell him I told you so but she wasn’t. Instead she was in a hospital bed fighting for her life and there wasn’t anything he could do about it, except this. This he could do for both of them.

“Bingo.” He said as he found the item he was looking for, a blue velvet pouch and placed it in his pocket.

In no time at all he was up off the floor and at the door. He took one last look at the destruction that was now his room and made a mental note to clean it before Maria got home. Before she came home. Because he knew she would come home.

Hello everyone,
Thank You so much for all you're wonderful feedback. I am in a bit of a rush today because I am going on a vacation but I wanted to get this part up for you guys. After the last part I think this one will help, especially if your a candy. I promise tto respond to feedback when I get back from vacation.

Stronger Together

Part 25

Michael arrived at the hospital in record time. Now that he had what he wanted he didn’t want to waste anytime to use it. When he walked into the waiting area he found that it had been turned into a make shift command center. Both sheriff Valenti and Philip Evans were on the two pay phones near the coffee machines and Max and Liz were sifting through piles of papers.

“Hey.” Liz said as she spotted Michael and waved him over.

“What’s going on?” He asked gesturing to Philip and the sheriff.

“We are trying to get leads on Maria’s father.” Liz explained.

The news didn’t surprise Michael. Amy loved her daughter and would do anything to make her well, even if it meant bringing a man who abandoned them back into their lives.

“So far we haven’t had any luck. It’s like he doesn’t want to be found.” Max added.

“Well thanks for doing this.” Michael said.

“Have you seen Amy?” He asked.

“I think she is in with Maria. They gave Maria something to help her sleep so she is probably just sitting with her.” Liz explained.

“I’m going to head over there now.” Michael said.

“If she’s awake tell her I will be in to see her later.” Liz said and then returned to her pile of papers.

“Tell her I was asking for her also. I still can’t get in.” Max said.

Michael noted the sarcasm in Max’s voice but didn’t have the time to deal with it now.

Michael walked down the hall to Maria’s room. When he got there he found Maria still asleep and Amy humming to her softly.

“Hi.” He said from the doorway.

Amy got up from her chair and walked over to the door and into the hall. She didn’t want to wake Maria.

“How is she?” He asked when Amy reached him.

“She’s ok. She has been sleeping for a while now. She woke up about an hour ago asking for you.” She told him.

Damn. He was hoping that she wouldn’t have realized he was gone.

“I had some things I had to do. We need to talk will you walk with me?” He asked her.

Amy really didn’t want to leave Maria but in all the time she had known Michael he had never initiated a conversation with her. Sure they had had conversations but only when she initiated them and usually they involved Michael giving one word answers.

“Ok but I don’t want to be gone to long.” She said.

Michael placed his hand on Amy’s shoulder. Amy felt a lump form in her throat. Now she knew this was something big. She just hoped that she could handle what ever it was Michael was going to throw at her.


Michael sat by Maria’s bedside and watched her sleep. She was so peaceful and beautiful. God she was beautiful. It amazed him she could still look so perfect even in her delicate condition.

************************************************************
He had gotten back a short while ago to find that the sedative had still not worn off. Amy had taken their conversation rather well and now all that was left to do was talk to Maria.

As he sat with her his mind drifted through his memories of her. He had wasted so much time pushing her away but they would never be apart again. Lost in his thoughts he sat up quickly in his chair when he noticed her begin to wake up.

“Hi.” She said as he came into focus.

“How long have I been asleep?” She asked looking around her room.

“A couple of hours. How do you feel?” He said placing his hand on top of hers.

“Ok, still a little weak.” She said honestly.

“I brought you these flowers.” He said gesturing to the vase of wildflowers on the table next to her.

“Michael Guerin, you brought me flowers? Am I dieing?” She said with a laugh. It wasn’t like Michael to buy things like flowers.

Michael didn’t laugh back. Maria was still in the dark about how serious her condition was. They didn’t see any reason to tell her, it would just make her upset and that was the last thing any of them wanted.

“I know that you like them and I just wanted to make everything perfect for you.” He said.

Maria saw the look on Michael’s face and the serious tone in his voice. She decided she needed to lighten the mood.

“Who are you and what have you done with my boyfriend.” She said and quirked a grin at him.

Michael scowled and Maria instantly felt bad.

“I’m sorry. They are beautiful. I love them.”

Michael stood up and began to pace a little. Maria looked at him curiously and wondered what was going on. She was about to say something when he began to speak.

“Maria, you know that I am not good with words or romance. I can’t express my feelings really well.” He said.

“Michael is everything ok.” Maria asked a little worried by how Michael was behaving.

Michael stopped pacing and looked at her. This was not going as easily as he had hoped. He decided that the best course of action was to just come out with it.

“When you got sick, I didn’t know what to do with myself. I barged into the ER and demanded that the nurses let me see you.”

The thought of that brought an instant smile to her lips.

Do you know what they told me? They told me I wasn’t your family and that if I wasn’t your family they wouldn’t even talk to me. Then when they let me see you the doctor said the same thing.”

Maria could see in Michael’s face how much those words had hurt him. It was just another reminder of the family he didn’t have.

“I never want that to happen again. Don’t they understand, doesn’t everyone know that you are my family?”

With those words tears began to fill her eyes. She knew that Michael loved her; she could see it in his eyes when he looked at her, feel it in the tenderness of his kisses and touch but never before had he so openly admitted how he felt about her. She watched as he pulled a small velvet pouch from his pocket and then he did something she never expected he got down on his knee.

“No one will ever tell me that you are not my family again. I know we are young and that we have a long road ahead of us but I love you and if you’ll have me I want you to be my wife.” He said as he emptied the pouch and a ring appeared in his hand.

Maria looked at him and than at the ring. It had a huge emerald stone in the center with smaller diamonds surrounding it. They stayed there for a few moments. Michael had done the one thing she never expected and she was speechless. Suddenly she found her voice again.

“Yes, yes, yes, I will marry you but would you get up off your knees now so I can kiss you.” She said and then kissed him passionately.

He placed the ring on her finger and she smiled at him. She might be sick but in that moment she felt healthier and happier then she ever had.

“It’s beautiful. How in the world were you able to afford it?” She said. She knew Michael didn’t have much money he did after all have to support himself with out the support of parents.

“I found the stone out in the desert after the whole Pierce fiasco. It reminded me of your eyes. I didn’t know it was worth anything it just reminded me of you. One day I was tossing it around at Meta-chem and Carlos told me what it was. I went to a jeweler and her cut and set it for me.” Michael explained.

“You carried it around all that time just because it reminded you of my eyes?” She asked dumbfounded by the revelation.

Michael just nodded his head.

“My mother.” Maria blurted out suddenly.

“What?” Michael asked.

“My mother. She is going to freak. We are only 19 and we haven’t finished college and….” Maria rambled in classic “Maria” babble.

“Calm down. She already knows.”

“What? How? When?” Maria asked.

“What you think I would do something this monumental without checking with your mom first? I got the hint the first time she attacked me with the newspaper.”

Maria laughed and as if on cue her mom popped her head through the door.

“I can’t take it anymore.” She said looking at them.

“Come in.” Maria said waving her mother over.

“Well what was your answer to Michael’s very important question?” Amy asked knowing the answer before Maria gave it.

“Yes. Michael and I are getting married.” Maria said. It sounded so weird coming from her lips but there it was.

“Oh, my baby is getting married.” Amy cried.

“I can’t believe it. Michael come here and give me a hug.”

Michael moved toward Amy and allowed her to hug him. He wasn’t used to this and it made him a bit uncomfortable.

“Welcome to the family.” She said smiling through her tears.

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

Shortly after Michael had proposed the nurse had come to take Maria to a private room.
Michael left Amy and Maria in her room discussing wedding plans. It had been all he could do to get a word in edge wise. At one point he actually thought they were going to ask him his opinion.

“Oh someone’s input is missing.” Maria said to her mother.

Michael began to say thank you when Maria interrupted him.

“Liz, I need my Maid of Honor.” She said and looked at Michael.

He would have no say in this wedding that was clear. It would be all about the women and as long as it made her happy he didn’t care.

So he had agreed to go get Liz but had promised not to tell her the news.

“Hey guys. How is it going?” Michael said as he approached Liz and Max.

“Dead ends, dead ends, nothing but dead ends.” Liz said slamming her fist down on the pile of papers in front of her.

“She’s a little frustrated. We haven’t been able to find any leads on Maria’s father.” Max explained.

“Why don’t you guys take a break and come see Maria? They just moved her to a private room.” Michael said.

“I don’t know Michael. As much as I want to go see Maria I think I am more useful down here.” Liz said flipping the pile of papers in front of her.

“She really wants to see you Liz.” Michael said. He didn’t want to incur Maria’s wrath if he came back without her.

“Liz, go I’ll stay here and continue the search.” Max said.

“No I want you to come also.” Michael said.

At Michael’s tone Liz sensed something was up.

“Is everything ok?” She asked with concern.

“Everything is fine. She just wants to see her friends and you guys could use a break.” He said and then turned and walked to the elevators, before they had a chance to protest again.

They rode the elevator in silence. Michael made a conscious effort not to make eye contact with either of them and this did not go unnoticed by them.

By the time they arrived at Maria’s new room Liz half expected to see Maria on her death bed. What she found was the total opposite. Maria was wide awake and sitting up in bed. She even seemed to have more color in her cheeks then she had only a few hours ago.

“LIZ!” Maria said when she spotted her friend at the door.

“How are you?” Liz asked as they entered the room.

“I feel like a million bucks. Thanks to Michael.” Maria beamed.

Amy got up from her seat and walked towards the door.

“I’ll give you guys some time alone. I’ll be back later sweetie.” Amy said and left the room.

“Am I missing something?” Max asked looking first at Michael and then at Maria.

“Should you tell them or me?” Maria asked a huge grin on her face.

“Maria Deluca. On our friendship you better tell me what is going on.” Liz said a feeling of excitement rising within her she knew Maria was happy.

“Michael proposed.” Maria said holding out her left hand so that Liz could see her ring.

“No way! I can’t believe it! Maria! Oh My God it is beautiful!” Liz said rushing to her friend looking at the ring and then hugging her.

“Congratulations.” Max said walking over to Michael and shaking his hand and then pulling him in to a quick hug.

“Liz of course you are going to be my Maid of honor.” Maria said as she looked at her best friend.

“I wouldn’t let you get married if I wasn’t.” Liz said only half joking.

When Michael didn’t say anything Maria prodded him.

“Don’t you have something to ask Max.” Maria said rolling her eyes a little.

“I guess I’m going to need a best man. The job is yours if you want it.” Michael said.

“Thanks Michael. Of course I will.”

Maria began to tell Liz all about Michael’s proposal.

“I can’t believe that you did it.” Max said to Michael.

“I love her. She is my family. This just makes it official.” Michael said matter-of-factly.

“I’m happy for you, for both of you.”

“You want to go get some coffee? Trust me they don’t even know we are here.” Michael said looking at the girls.

“Yeah and we should call Isabel and tell her to get down here right away. She’s never going to believe this one.” Max said shaking his head and following Michael out the door.

Liz listened to Maria tell her all about Michael’s heart felt proposal. If you would have told her this was going to happen 3 years ago she would have told you that you were nuts. Maria was so happy she was glowing. At least things had worked out for one of them. Liz was happy for Maria, she truly was but part of her couldn’t help but be a little sad. In another time Max and she were the one’s to get married at 19 and in a way this reminded her of what she lost.

“So I was thinking maybe next summer.” Maria said breaking Liz away from her thoughts.

“You know I always thought that summer weddings are beautiful.” Liz said with a smile.

“I’m really happy for you Maria.” Liz said and hugged her friend.

Maria always had a knack for sensing people’s emotions and while she sensed that Liz was truly happy for her she also sensed she was sad and she knew why.

“It’s ok to be sad about what has been changed Chica.” Maria said.

Liz looked at her best friend. How did she do that, always know what she was feeling. It must come from being friends for so long.

“It is just a little hard. Max and I should have been married at 19.” She said.

“Maybe you still will get married.” Maria said hopefully.

Liz sighed.

“I don’t know if will ever be together. Not after today.” Liz said.

“What happened?” Maria asked.

“ I was donating blood and Sam was there with me.”

“and Max walked in and flipped out.” Maria finished.

“He said that he didn’t think that it was a good time to make new friends. I couldn’t believe he said it and I just lost it. Everything I have been holding in for the last year came pouring out.”

“It had to come out sooner or later. It wasn’t healthy for the 2 of you to avoid it.” She said.

“Maybe this is what you needed to start over.” Maria said.

“Do I want to start over? Do I want to risk being hurt again?” She said truly not knowing the answer.

“Maybe you need to see what else is out there. You know what it feels like to be with Max, maybe if you experience something else you’ll be able to make the right decision for you.” Maria said.

She wanted Liz to be happy. She always believed that she would find that happiness with Max but maybe she was wrong. As much as she hated to think it maybe Liz needed someone else.

“It will kill him if I do that Maria.” Liz said.

“Listen, Max is my friend and the last thing I want is for him to get hurt, but you have to worry about you. I’m not saying you should flaunt it in his face but you need to do what’s right for you.”

Liz sighed, why did things have to be so complicated? She shook her head. She didn’t want to deal with this right now.

“Excuse me.” The nurse interrupted them.

“I need to take Ms. Deluca down for some tests.”

Liz leaned over and gave Maria another hug.

”Thanks Ria. I really am happy for you.” She said.

“I’ll be back later and I’ll bring bridal magazines.” She called back as she left.
************************************************************

Kristianna watched the world pass by outside the window of the car. It was a beautiful day and there wasn’t a cloud in the sky. She had forgotten how blue the sky was. On Antar the sky was an orange color splattered with blue and white. God she had missed the sky.
They had arrived earlier in the desert landing not far from where the pod chamber was. They had gone undetected by any earth radar thanks to the cloaking device the scientists had developed. The new ship also could take on the appearance of it’s surroundings. After making sure that the ship would go undetected they had made there way to the main road where they were able to catch a ride to Hondo.

When they arrived in Hondo they made contact with the Alliance. The alliance was a group that consisted of Humans, Antarians and Hybrids who were loyal to the crown. They met with a man named Carlos Ramon who supplied them with identification money and a car. As soon as they finished their meal they set out to find the kids.
“You are awfully quiet.” Rian said drawing her from her thoughts.

“I had forgotten how beautiful it is here. How peaceful. Everything is so vibrant. Not like on Antar.”

“I think that in it’s time Antar was vibrant but Kivar’s rule stole it.” He said.

“What are we going to tell them?” She asked. The question had been on her mind for sometime and she thought they should discuss it before they arrived in Las Cruces.

”We explain our side of things. We tell them the truth. Except for the part about having to be together. That they have to figure out on their own.” He said.

“They won’t trust us. How could they? Look at the track record they have with people associated with Antar. They might feel betrayed that we didn’t come sooner.” She said.

“They will in time. Once they know the full story. We will deal with it.” He tried to assure her.

She looked at the map in front of her.

“Make a left here.” She said.

Rian made the turn and looked at the information he had, 19 Dupont Lane.

He pulled his car behind a red mustang and turned off the ignition.

“We are here.” He said and swallowed the lump that formed in his throat.

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

Isabel hurried around the living room getting all of KJ and Lexie’s things together so her Mom could watch them. Max had called earlier and said that she and Kyle should get down to the hospital because there was good news. As much as she had pestered him he refused to tell her what the news was and she couldn’t wait to find out.

Mrs. Evan’s came down the stairs carrying Lexie and placed her in the bassinet.

“Hi honey. I just got her to fall asleep and Kyle is bringing KJ down.” She said.

“Mom you’re sure you are ok with this?” She asked. Her mother had been a huge help these last few days but she felt like she was burdening her.

“I’m fine. I love this and they are such good babies. I swear I hardly have to do anything.” She said.

“I’m just going to go upstairs and change. Lexie spit up on this shirt and I want to get it in the wash.” She said with a smile and headed up stairs.

Kyle came into the Living room a few moments later holding KJ who was sound asleep.
He placed him in the bassinet that was next to Lexie’s and placed a kiss on his head.

“So what do you think the big news is?” Kyle said knowing the suspense was killing her.

“I don’t know but I can’t wait to find out.” She said.

“Maybe Maria is pregnant and that’s really what’s going on.” Kyle said.

“Kyle!!” Isabel said shocked.

“What you didn’t think they were virgins did you?” He said with a laugh.

“No but the thought of them well…eww.” She said.

“Isabel Evans are you a prude?” Kyle said mocking her.

“There are just some images that are best kept out of my head, thank you very much.” She said.

“Whatever it is we are never going to find out if we don’t get there. I’m going to go make the bottles so feeding time is easier for your Mom.” He said as the doorbell rang.

“I’ll get the door.” She said and walked over and opened it.

Isabel stared at the two people in Front of her. She had never seen them before.

Kristiana let out a small gasp when she saw Isabel. She couldn’t believe that this was actually happening.

“Can I help you?” She asked.

“Yes we were looking for Max Evans.” The man with dirty blond hair said to Isabel.

Kyle suddenly yelled from the kitchen.

“Iz, how many bottles do you think I should make.”

“Three for each of them should be fine. Visiting hours are only till 6. They won’t let us see Maria after that.” She said never taking her eyes off the 2 people in front of her.

Kristiana paled and grabbed a hold of Rian’s hand. What was wrong with Maria?

“I’m sorry you’ll have to excuse me. Who did you say you were?” Isabel asked fishing for information.

Rian had to think quickly. He didn’t want to burden them with their arrival if something was wrong.

“I am his college advisor and I was just in the neighborhood and thought I would stop by and see him because he hasn’t been in to see me.” He knew it was a bad cover but it was all he could think of.

“Well he’s not here.” She said bluntly not believing what he said.

“I’ll tell him you were here.” She said and closed the door.

“Who was that?” Kyle said as he came out of the kitchen.

”I don’t know but they were asking for Max.” She said her eyes locking with his.

“Let’s get to the hospital. It looks like we are going into Alien defcon 3.” He said grabbing his jacket and Keys.

“I’ll get my Mom.”

Hello everyone I have the next part . Thanks so much for all of your feedback it is really motiviating especially since I have so much on my plate right now.

begonia9508-The hybrids that are on earth are different from the royal 4. They come from parents where one was a human one was an antarian. If you read the part where Arianna thinks about what happened after her children were killed it mentions that antarians had been visiting earth for scientific reasons. Some of them stayed and married humans. Their children are Hybrids.

Gerry Carr-Glad you liked that part. Kristiana is in a panic because she doesn't know what is going on with the others and Maria. They take steps to find out in this part.

Stronger Together

Part 26

When Kyle and Isabel arrived at the hospital they went to the main lobby and found Max and Liz hard at work.

“Hey guys how is everything?” Kyle asked.

“We haven’t really found much but we will.” Max said optimistically.

“So I guess that’s not the news.” Isabel said

“So you haven’t gone up to see Michael and Maria?” Liz said with a smile on her face.

“No, what is going on?” Kyle asked noticing the expression on both of their faces.

“Oh nothing. It’s not our secret to tell.” Max said avoiding his sister’s glare.

“Before we go up something happened.” Isabel said.

“What? Is everything alright with the babies?” Max asked.

“Of course, we wouldn’t be here if it weren’t?” Isabel said and then continued.

“Right before we left we had a visitor. He was asking for you. He said he was your college advisor.”

“My college advisor? Why would my college advisor show up at my house?” Max said to no one in particular.

“You missed freshman orientation, maybe that’s the reason.” Liz said looking for any reason she could grasp on to. The last thing they needed now was an alien crisis.

“Liz might be right but just keep your guard up man. We all should.” Kyle said.

The four of them talked for another few minutes but then Isabel’s curiosity got the better of her and she dragged Kyle toward the elevators.

The doors opened non-to soon for Isabel. The fact that there was a secret out there truly motivated her and it made Kyle laugh out loud.

“What?” She asked when she heard it.

“You. You’re like a kid on Christmas.” He said.

She laughed. She knew he was right; she never could wait for surprises.

When they finally reached the room they found Michael, Maria, Amy and the sheriff watching TV.

“Cool the diamondbacks.” Kyle said as he saw what they were watching.

Isabel hit him on the back of his head with her hand.

“Ouch, What was that for?” He said as he rubbed the spot that she hit.

“Hello, Maria, hospital.” She said waving her hands in the air and rolling her eyes at him.

“Excuse him Maria. He is a male. How are you feeling?”

“Really good.” She said.

“You look great.” Kyle said.

Isabel looked at Michael and Kyle watching the game and again rolled her eyes.

“I can’t believe that you are letting him watch this while you are laid up in the hospital.” She said.

Maria took this as the opportunity to spring their big news.

“Well I just thought that if we were going to get married that I should get used to it.” She said coyly.

There was a moment of silence and then a screech from Isabel.

“I can’t believe it. You did it. You proposed.” She said running over to the man she considered her brother and wrapping her arms around his neck.

“Let me see that ring.” She said grabbing Maria’s hand.

“My god it is beautiful.” She said.

“Are you sure our Michael picked this out?” She added

“Ha, Ha. Very funny.” Michael responded.

“Geez, with my dad marrying Amy and you marrying Maria I guess that makes us related Guerin.” Kyle said with a smirk.

“Yeah don’t go spreading that around.” Michael said with a half smile.

The room broke out into laughter at their comments.

“We are going to head downstairs and get some coffee.” Jim said as he and Amy got up to leave.

“See you later.” They all said as they left.

“So tell me everything.” Isabel said.

Maria told Isabel all about Michael’s proposal and how he found the stone. Isabel cried and hugged Maria and Michael numerous times.

“Iz, if you hug me again you might do some damage.” Michael said with a laugh.

He promptly received a glare from her and his future bride.

“Get ready for one more spaceboy. Isabel, I would like you to be a bridesmaid.” She said.

“Oh Maria, I would love to. Thank You so much.” She said and pulled her into a hug. She contemplated giving Michael another one but then thought better of it.

“Umm, Michael.” Maria said as she angled her eyes at Kyle.

“You want to be in the wedding? If Max and I have to wear those penguin suits then so do you.” He said.

“Thanks Michael. You know I saw these really cool tuxedos with yellow top hats.” He said waiting for the girls reaction.

“NO!!” They both yelled simultaneously.

This elicited a laugh from both Michael and Kyle.

“We have one more request. We won’t be getting married for at least a year or 2 and we want KJ and Lexie to be in the wedding too.” Maria said.

Isabel brought her hand to her mouth and started to cry. Kyle felt a little choked up as well.

“KJ’s in. If his dad has to wear a penguin suit so does the boy.” Kyle said and hugged Maria.

“Lexie is in too. She will look so cute in a flower girl dress.” She said.

“I know a great place that sells designer gowns for really great bargains and flowers…” Isabel began.

“Well the cleaning Nazi has left the building, all hail the wedding Nazi.” Kyle whispered to Michael who patted him on the back and laughed.

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


“Excuse me.” The tall man with ash brown hair and dark green eyes interrupted two ladies who were speaking to each other.

“Well, hello cutie. How can I be of service?” One of the women said as she allowed her eyes to roam up and down his body.

“Can you tell me how far Las Cruces Hospital is from here?” He asked her.

“It is about 15 minutes away.” She said and then ran her hand up his arm.

“What brings a handsome guy like you to our neck of the woods?” She asked openly flirting with him.

“Business.” The man replied and began to play with the ring on his left hand.

“Are you a doctor? I’m really good at playing doctor. You know what they say all work and no play…” She began.

“ I really should be going. I have to get to the hospital. They are expecting me.” He said and rushed out to his rental car.

He faintly heard “You don’t know what you are missing.”

He drove toward the highway and saw the first sign for the hospital. He was going to find out who was digging up the past and why.

************************************************************
Rian hung up the pay phone and headed back toward the car.

“What did they say?” Kristiana said as he got into the drivers seat.

“All they were able to find out was that she is in the hospital for some sort of blood disorder.” Rian said.

They hadn’t known what to do after learning the news about Maria being in the hospital. Kristiana had thought that the best course of action would be to see if the Royal alliance could find out any information about her condition.

“So what do we do now?” She asked.

“We go to the hospital.” He said.

“Do you think we should?” She said.

“It’s our only choice. We have to find out what is wrong with her now.” He said trying not to explode with frustration.

Sensing his tension she placed her hand on his.

“OK, we go in. Find out what we need and then leave. The last thing we need is to add more tension to their situation. Once we know she’s ok then we try to make contact again.”

Neither of them said another word he just pulled out of his parking spot and headed toward the hospital.
*************************************************************

Amy left her daughter talking to Liz about her upcoming wedding. She still couldn’t believe that her little girl was getting married. It had been truly amazing how Michael’s proposal had helped Maria. All her vital signs were improving and she even said she felt stronger. Now all they needed was to find her a donor and everything would turn out just fine.

“Ms. Deluca.” A voice interrupted her thoughts.

“Hello doctor.” Amy said.

“I have some good news. We have found a blood match for your daughter.” He said.

A huge smile spread across her face and she impulsively threw her arms around his neck.

“How long until she can get the transfusion?” She asked when she released him from her hug.

“An hour or two. We just need to run a few tests.”

”Thank You.” She said tears welling in her eyes.

He gave her a big smile.

“I’ll let you know what her status is.” He said and then headed down the hall.

“Jim. I have to find Jim.” She said.

Her daughter was going to be all right, could this day get any better.

She headed for the elevator and began pushing the button impatiently. When the doors opened she rushed in and collided with Michaels.

“Oww.” Michael said as he rubbed his head.

“I’m sorry.” Amy said laughing.

“Where are you off to in such a hurry?” He asked.

“Michael they found a match.” She said a huge smile spreading across her face.

Michael felt like a 500-pound weight had just been lifted off his chest.

“This is great.” He said and hugged her.

“I have to go see her.” He said. He needed to see her and know that everything was finally going to be ok.

“Have you seen Jim?” She asked.

“The last I saw he was heading for the lab to donate blood.” He said.

“Thanks.” She said as the doors closed.

Now all I have to do is find him and tell him he can stop looking for that SOB of an ex-husband.




out of this world,Crashdown2006,StarGazing101,Roswellluver, Asabetha,Stargazing and Krazykitti- Welcome to you first time posters and Thank you to my regulars. This next part is sort of a transition piece so I hope you don't find it to boreing.

Hello everyone. Sorry it has taken me so long to get back with a new part, I started a new job and RL has been hectic. Thanks for all the great feedback.

DevilishCas- I am glad that you like the story. Here is the next part that you have been waiting for and it's a doozy.

Gerry Carr- The blood is from Maria's father.

begonia9508-If you find anything confusing just ask and I will explain. I know when there are alot of parts and your not reading it in one fel swoop it can get confusing.

Ella1022- MAria doesn't have anything to do with the royal alliance directly but because she is with michael and is friends with the other hybrids they have information on her. The alliance is a group of antarians, humans and antarian/human hybrids.


StarGazing101- I didn't realize you changed your name. Glad you let me know.

Ok here it is a big secret is revealed in this part.

Stronger Together
Part 27


Amy reached the lab and walked in. She looked around but didn’t see anyone. One of the curtains was drawn so she sat down and waited.

“Here, drink this juice. It will help after giving so much blood. There were a lot of people concerned for this girl. I must have had half a dozen people donate for her.” The nurse said.

“Are you sure you want to remain anonymous? I’m sure they would really want to thank you.” She said.

“No I don’t want anyone to know.” A mans voice said.

When Amy heard the voice she turned pale and felt nauseous. Then she began to feel a fire burn with in her. It was anger. She knew that voice. She would know it anywhere.
She got up and stormed to the curtain and yanked it back.

“Excuse me but you can’t be over here.” The nurse said surprised by the intrusion.

Amy ignored her and focused on the man before her and she gazed into eyes she hadn’t seen in over 12 years.

“Amy.” He almost whispered.

“You batstard. I knew this day was to good to be true. What the hell are you doing here?” She yelled.

“Miss I think you need to leave.” The nurse said.

Amy just glared at her.

“It’s ok. I need to talk to her.” He said.

“Ok but if you need anything I will be right in the next room.” She said and then left.

“I heard about Maria and I came to help.” He said.

She was still beautiful and she still had that fire that he had fallen in love with.

“Your daughter might have died, correction my daughter. So you decided to crawl out from under what ever rock you have been living under. I guess you think I should thank you.” She said sarcastically.

“How did you find out anyway? They said they kept hitting dead ends.” She continued her tirade.

“I have my sources. I’ve always known what is going on in Maria’s life.” He said.

His last statement fully sent Amy into hurricane Deluca mode.

“Well you could have fooled me. You leave, no reason, no phone call, nothing. Do you know that she would cry herself to sleep every night for almost a year? Then after a while it was only on birthdays and holidays. For the first couple of years she was convinced you were coming back. She would get all dressed up and be crushed when you didn’t come. How could you do that she was only 7. We were so happy before that. You changed her childhood.” She yelled at him trying not to let her emotions get the better of her.

“I’m sorry there were extenuating circumstances.” He said trying to explain but knowing there was no explanation good enough.

“I want you to leave. We have survived this long without you. Don’t you even think about going to see her. She has been hurt enough by you.’ She spat.

“She is my daughter…” He began to say.

“NO! She is MY daughter! You just proved the sperm.” She cut him off and before he had a chance to respond she spun around and left the room.

He sat down on the table and buried his face in his hands. She was right he had caused so much pain but he had no choice. It was his job. A job he hadn’t wanted or expected but one he had to do and because of it his family had suffered.
*************************************************************

Amy ran out of the room and straight down the hall. Her feet were going as fast as they could carry her. She had to get away. The further away she got the safer she would be, safe from the memories that threatened to engulf her at any moment.

God she thought that she had put all this pain behind her but in one moment it had all come flooding back. They were so happy, the three of them. They were even talking about having another child and then out of the blue she was alone. How could he do that to her? He swore he loved her. How could he have done that to Maria his special little princess? None of it made sense. He made no sense and she swore that she would protect herself and her daughter from him at all cost.

She was so caught up in her thoughts and with her need to get as far away from the lab as possible that she didn’t even see Jim until they collided.

“Hey, hey slow down.” He said grabbing her and pulling her to a stop.

He looked at her. Her eyes were puffy and her cheeks were tear stained.

“What happened?” He asked.

“He’s back. I can’t let him hurt her again.” She said through her tears.

“Who Amy? Whom are you talking about?” He asked.

“Maria’s Father.” She said the disdain evident in her voice.

Jim clenched his hands into fists.

“Did he hurt you? I’ll kill the bastard.” He said clenching his fists again.

“No he didn’t hurt me. He did that a long time ago.” She said sadly.

“I’ll make sure he never hurts you or Maria again.” He swore.

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

Kyle and Isabel walked down the hall that led to Maria’s room.

“I can’t believe that they found a blood match for Maria. This has turned out to be a really great day.” Isabel said smiling up at Kyle.

When Michael had told her they found a match for Maria she was so excited and happy. Maria was going to be ok and she could see how happy Michael was. We should always be this happy she had thought to herself.

“We’ll just go say our goodbyes to Maria and then head back to the house.” Kyle said

“We have only been gone a few hours and I miss KJ so much. It’s weird how much you can love and care about another person, especially one you have only known for a couple of weeks.” He said.

“I know what you mean. My mom loves being with her and I know that Lexie is safe but I just can’t wait to get home and hold her.” Isabel agreed.

“It’s like Lexie withdrawal.” She laughed.

“It must be that parent child bond everyone always talks about.” She added

When her comment received no comment from Kyle she turned to look at him and she watched as he came to a sudden stop. His face was white. His hands were trembling and his eyes were fixed on a woman down the hall.

“Kyle?” She asked with concern.

“It can’t be.” He whispered in a hushed tone.

As the woman walked closer an expression of recognition crossed her face when she saw Kyle. For a moment their eyes locked and various emotions played across their faces, surprise, love, sadness and then suddenly from Kyle anger.

He abruptly broke their gaze and turned to look at Isabel.

Isabel focused all of her attention on Kyle. She had never seen him like this before. His eyes were filled with tears and the sadness and anger that was on his face made her heart go out to him. She reached out to grab his hand but he took a step back. He took one quick glance back at the woman who was now almost standing in front of them.

“Kyle.” She whispered.

He heard the words leave her lips. Let them flow through his ears and into his head. That voice. Then he turned and ran.

Isabel turned and looked at the woman before her. She vaguely recognized her as the woman who had been with the man claming to be Max’s college advisor.

All color had drained from Kristiana’s face. She felt as if at any moment her legs would no longer be able to support her. How had this happened? She thought she was being so careful. This wasn’t how she had wanted to be reunited with Kyle. Not this way.

Her thoughts were broken by the sound of a low harsh voice.

“I don’t know who the hell you are or what you want but stay the hell away from us.” Isabel spat at her and then turned and ran in the direction Kyle had gone.

She did not see Kristiana clutch her chest or the tears that fell from her eyes.

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

Isabel reached Kyle just as he was getting into his mustang. He didn’t even acknowledge her he just got in and started the engine. Isabel not wanting him to drive alone grabbed the passenger side door and jumped in.

“Kyle, What is wrong? Who was that woman?” She asked.

“Kyle, talk to me.” She pleaded.

Kyle said nothing. He just stared straight ahead at the road in front of him and pressed his foot down hard on the gas.

Isabel began to panic as she watched the speedometer go higher and higher. Kyle was in no condition to drive and if she didn’t get him to stop they were both going to end up dead.

“Kyle, stop this now!!! Pull over!!!”

Kyle didn’t even acknowledge that she was there. He kept his gaze straight ahead. He knew that if he didn’t focus on the road ahead everything that had happened in the last few minutes would come crashing down on him and he just wasn’t ready for that to happen.

Isabel felt truly helpless. Without thinking she checked that her seatbelt was securely fastened. Her daughter needed her she had to get him to stop. That’s it she thought KJ.

“Think about Kyle James.” She said.

As if she had spoken words of magic Kyle slowly placed his foot on the brake and pulled to the side of the road. Isabel had said the one thing that he couldn’t ignore. He needed to be strong for his son.

Kyle turned and looked at Isabel. It was all too much and he just didn’t know what he was going to do. All of the emotions that he was trying to keep inside began to spill out and he broke down into sobs.

Isabel looked at Kyle’s tear stained face. She could see the torment he was going through. Hadn’t he been through enough? Hadn’t they all been through enough? Instinctively she placed her hand on his.

“Who is she?” She whispered not wanting to push him.

“My mother.” He choked out.

Isabel reached over and hugged him. Suddenly her brain was besieged with images.

***************************FLASH*****************************
“Ok, Kyle make a wish. Happy Birthday sweetie.” Kristiana said and then picked up a 4 year old Kyle and swung him in the air.

*************************Flash********************************
Kyle gives his mother a picture he made of the 2 of them at preschool.

“It is beautiful. I’ll keep it with me always.” She says and then kisses his forehead.
*************************FLASH*******************************

Kyle is lying in bed and his mother is sitting in a chair next to his bed. She begins to sing softly.
Close your eyes.
Go to sleep.
Mommy loves you sweet baby boy. ***********************FLASH*********************************

“Today is a special day Kyle. You are going to meet someone very special.”

“Who?” A 7 year old Kyle begged.

“It’s a surprise.” She said with a smile.

“Have fun at school and I’ll see you later. I love you.” She said and then kissed him as she walked him to the school bus.
**************************FLASH******************************

Kyle walks into the house and sees his father sitting on the couch his head in his hands.

“Dad?” Kyle said a little scared because of his father’s facial expression.

“She’s gone son. Your Mom left us. He said as he picked up a piece of paper from the coffee table.”

“NO!” Kyle cried.

“She said that she had a surprise for me. That she would be here when I got home.”

Jim said nothing just hugged his son and cried.*************************End Fash*********************

As quick as the images had come they stopped. Isabel took a quick intake of breath and then let it out. Nothing like that had ever happened to her before.

“What is she doing here Isabel? Why show up now?” He asked.

“I don’t have any answers for you, only she does but there is something you should know. Your mother was with the man who was looking for Max.” She said.

“What? Why would my mother have anything to do with Max? What the hell is going on here?” Kyle said.

“I don’t know but I swear we are going to find out. We need to resolve this. We can’t have our children dealing with this. It has to end and soon.” She said with determination.

Sorry This has taken so long. Thanks Gerry for the bumps. This is a really interesting part.

Stronger Together
Part 28

Maria’s father sat in silence in the lab. He hadn’t moved since Amy had run out almost a half hour ago. Her words ripped through him “She’s my daughter, you just provided the sperm.”

She was wrong Maria was his daughter and he loved her. Before things had gotten out of control Amy and Maria were his whole life. He had never thought that he would settle down but when he met Amy that all changed. She was so passionate about what she believed in and so full of life he had fallen in love with her almost immediately. They had a whirlwind courtship and within 6 months they were married. A few months later she found out she was pregnant and he couldn’t have been happier. For six years after that he was the happiest man on the planet.

A tear ran down his face as he thought of all he had missed.

“Damn my family.” He yelled and slammed his hand down on a metal tray.

He bent down to pick up the items that had fallen to the floor. As he did this he noticed someone entering the room. He quickly got up and when he did he saw someone he never expected to see.

Green eyes met green eyes. No words were spoken as an array of emotions played across his face.

“What the hell are you doing here?” He hissed at the man before him.

The man stood there silently. His breathing trying to recover from seeing someone he hadn’t seen in 10 years and had never expected to see again.

“I came to see who was undermining years of my hard work.” He managed to get out.

“You bastard. Is that what you consider what happened your hard work. How dare you. My daughter could have died and it would have been all your fault.” He said as years worth of anger began to be released.

“It’s not my fault. It wasn’t my responsibility. You made a choice.”

“A choice, is that what you call it? I had no choice.” He spat.

“You could have said no.” He said.

“Oh yes, I could have said No but then they would have forced our sick father to fulfill a duty that his family agreed to ages ago. He never would have survived. You had no ties. You were young in college. You didn’t even have a girlfriend. I had a wife and a daughter. Do you know what it was like to have to choose between letting my father die and my little girl?”

Maria’s father watched his brother’s face and saw a flash of sympathy when he spoke of leaving his daughter.

“Do you have any children?” He asked.

The two men stood there in silence.

“Do you?” He yelled.

“Yes a little girl. She is 6.” He responded in a low whisper.

“Imagine having to leave her now.”

“I can’t just the thought of it is painful.” He said looking down at the floor.

“Now multiple that by a million times and you know how I have felt over the last 12 years.” He spat out.

“Ryan I’m sorry for what you went through but….”

“It’s Rian, I haven’t been Ryan in a long time.” He interrupted.

Rian’s brother began to speak again.

“Save it Kevin. I don’t need your sympathy or your words of comfort. Go home to your family and cherish every moment you have with them. I’m going to see my daughter.” Rian said coolly.

Before Kevin could respond to his brother Rian was out the door leaving him there in stunned silence.

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

Rian stormed out of the lab and headed for the elevators. There was no way in hell he was leaving without seeing his daughter. Even if was just from a far. He hadn’t expected to run into Amy but he knew it was a possibility. He could totally understand her reaction to him but that didn’t mean he was going to listen and stay away. It had been to long.

His brother was a different story. He had never in a million years had expected to see him there. He had 12 years of anger and resentment bottled up in side of him towards his brother and to see him after being ripped apart by his ex-wife just made that anger grow to the point that he exploded.

It had never been Rian’s place to be defender of Antar. He was the second born son to a family who held an oath to the royal house. His brother Liam was the first-born and like his Father and Grandfather it was he who was raised and trained to be the defender. Liam was a born military genius. His father and grandfather had never seen anything like it. His grandfather could often be heard saying, “If Liam is ever called he will be the best defender Antar has ever seen.”

Even though their family had not been called upon in 2 generations to serve as defenders of Antar Liam knew he might one day have to leave Earth and he accepted that. He lived his life for his family and never made any permanent attachments, though many a girl had tried to get him to settle down. He took a job with the Arizona State police department and was truly in his element. Rian saw him shortly after Maria’s birth and had never seen him more happy or content.

That was the last time he would see his brother. On Maria’s first birthday Rian had received a phone call late at night. It was his brother Kevin. He though he was calling to wish his daughter a Happy Birthday but instead he received the devastating news that Liam had been severely injured.

He had made a car stop and the man in the vehicle had a hidden gun. His partner said that when Liam noticed it he instinctively reached for his gun and a shoot out took place. When it was all said and done the man in the car was dead and Liam was in a coma.

His family was a mess his father took it the worst. He would spend day after day sitting at his bedside in the hopes that he would recover. The thought of Antar and their family duty never even crossed their minds. Not until they showed up.

An emissary from Antar showed up on his parent’s doorstep. There had been a major battle in the fight against Kivar and many top military officials had been killed. Now they needed to replenish their ranks and were calling home all defenders of Antar. Liam was still in a coma so it fell on one of the other brothers. The family immediately went to Kevin but he refused. They continued to try and convince him but when all else failed they came to Ryan.

He remembered very clearly that day. He was sitting in the living room watching Maria practice her ballet steps. She was so cute in her pink leotard and tutu. He could still hear her voice “look at me daddy. Look at me.” She said as she twirled around the living room. Then came the fateful knock at the door. He opened the door and saw his father and a man he did not know standing at his door. From the look on his face he knew the news was not good.

He immediately jumped to the conclusion that his brother had finally succumbed to his injuries and died.
“Rian, we need to talk.” His father said.

The name caught him off guard they all had Antarian names but they always used their earth names. It was then that he learned of what he must do. Either he went to Antar and fulfilled the family’s obligation or they took his father.

His father had not been in good health since his brother’s accident and the trip would most likely kill him. Maria came up behind him “Daddy who is it? I want you to watch me practice.” She said. Ryan looked between his little girl and his pale sickly father. This would be the toughest decision he would ever have to make.

Rian shook his head trying to shake the memory from his brain. It was not something he wanted to relive. He slowed down as he reached Maria’s room. There she was his little girl all grown up. It was the first time he had physically seen her in 12 years. She was as beautiful as her mother was at her age, even more so.

“She’ll be out for a while.” A voice said from behind him.

He turned around to find a pretty young nurse standing before him.

“We just gave her a sedative.” She said.

“Thank you. Is it ok if I sit with her?” He asked.

“Are you family?” She asked not recognizing him as one of Maria’s many visitors.

“Yes, I’m her father.” He said in a tone just above a whisper.

The nurse nodded and Rian went and sat down next to his daughter. He took her hand in his and then he did something he hadn’t done since he left he cried.

“Maria, I’m so sorry. I couldn’t let my father die. I never wanted to hurt you. There hasn’t been a day that has gone by that I haven’t thought about you. If there had been any other way I would have found it. I promise I’m back now and I promise I will make it up to you.
”
He sat there silently and cried. He cried for his brother Liam, he cried for Amy and he cried for the little girl that was now a woman. He began to pull himself together. He knew he had to leave before anyone got back. He brought Maria’s hand to his lips and kissed it. “I’ll see you soon princess.”

Suddenly Rian felt he was no longer alone with Maria. He turned around and his eyes locked instantly with Michael’s.

“Who the hell are you and what are you doing touching Maria?” Michael said angrily.

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

Michael had gone down to the cafeteria to get something to eat. He scoffed down a burger and some fries and then immediately headed back to see Maria. When he arrived at her room he was met with a site he didn’t expect. A strange man was sitting next to Maria’s bedside and holding her hand.

“Who the hell are you and what are you doing touching Maria?” Michael said angrily.

“Michael, I can explain.” Rian said.

“How do you know my name?” Michael said a little stunned.

“Move away from her now!!” He demanded loudly.

“If you’ll just let me explain…”

“I SAID MOVE AWAY!!!” he yelled even louder

Max was walking down the hall with Liz when he heard Michael yell.

“Michael, what’s wrong?” He said as he reached Maria’s room.

“This guy was touching Maria.” Michael said never taking his eyes off Rian.

“Max, Michael if you would just let me explain!!” Rian said. This was not good this was not how he wanted to meet them but that was to late now.

“How do you know our names who are you?” Max said realizing that this guy knew them.

“My name is Rian. Your mother has sent me from Antar.” Rian said quickly.

Immediately Max threw up his shield and Michael raised his hand.

“I’m here to help you. I’m on your side.” He said trying to calm them.

“We don’t trust anyone.” Michael said.

“Oh my God.” A voice from behind them said.

Max glanced over his shoulder to see that Liz had finally made it to the room, her hand over her mouth.

“Liz what’s wrong?” Max said infusing more power into his shield.

“He…” Liz began.

“Do you know him?” Michael said his hand still raised at the ready.

“Liz gained her composure and took a deep breath. “He’s Maria’s father.”

As the words settled in the room Max dropped his shield. They stood there in silence until a screech came from the doorway.

“I told you to stay away from her. What the hell are you doing in here? She doesn’t need you. We don’t need you. You think you can give some blood and waltz back into her life. I won’t let you.” Amy yelled from the doorway where she stood with the sheriff.

“Amy she is my daughter I had to see her.” He said. This was getting out of hand.

“Well you’ve seen her now leave.” She spat.

Rian gave Maria one last glance and then headed for the doorway.

“I will see her again.” He said.

Those words set Amy off again. She began to yell incoherently and Jim had to hold her back so she wouldn’t attack him.

“I think you should go.” Jim said through gritted teeth.

Suddenly Jim let Amy go and she reached Rian and slapped him.

“It’s you.” Jim said.
********************************************************

Kristianna had been walking around the hospital searching for Rian. She had never expected to come face to face with her son. Not here not now, not this way. It had been so long since she had seen her baby boy and he had run from her at first site. What did she expect she had all but abandoned him at six years old? Abandoned all of them.

Kristianna heard shouting from down the hall. She recognized one of the voices as Rian’s and took off toward the commotion. She reached the door way and her eyes instantly locked with Jim’s.

He was holding a woman back from attacking Rian. When his eyes met hers a stunned expression passed across his face. He released the woman and she headed straight for Rian and slapped him.

“It’s you.” Jim said.

They stood there staring at each other.

“Christine what are you doing here?” Jim said in a whisper.

Before she could answer Amy continued her rant and began pounding on Rian’s chest. Michael came up behind her and pulled her away from him.

“Who the hell are you?” Michael said when he spotted the new addition to the group.

“She’s my ex-wife.” Jim answered for her.

He had now idea what she was doing here. How was it that these two people who had been gone for 12 years suddenly appear within hours of each other. Then it dawned on him.

“The two of you are together.” He said stunned at the realization.

“Aren’t you?!!” He said as he felt the anger build up inside of him.

“I can’t believe we never put 2 and 2 together. God you both disappeared around the same time. How did we not see it?” He said.

“It’s not what you think Jim.” Kristianna said knowing what conclusion he was jumping to.

“NO Christine?!! Then why don’t you tell me what it is? You left me and your son for him.” He said as he shot Rian a menacing look.

“NO!! That is not true.” She cried.

“You little home wrecker!!!” Amy yelled as she began to advance toward Kristianna.

“She’s right Amy it is not how it looks.” Rian added stepping between the two women.

“Why should I believe anything she says or you for that matter?” She spat at him.
Liz watched the scene play out before her and continuously glanced over at her friend fast asleep. As the shouting grew she noticed Maria begin to get restless.

“I think you should take this outside. You are going to wake her up and the last thing she needs right now is to be involved in this soap opera.” Liz said.

Amy looked at her daughter and tears filled her eyes. Her rage had taken over and she had totally forgotten Maria was even in the room. They all stepped out into the hallway. Jim placed his hand on Amy’s shoulder.

“Are you ok?” He whispered in her ear.

She looked up at him and gave a nod and small smile.

Amy looked at Rian and Kristianna.

“We have nothing more to say to you. Stay away from Maria.” Amy said pointedly.

Then she turned and walked away.

Jim looked directly at his ex-wife. “Stay away from Kyle. The last thing he needs is more upheaval in his life.” He said and followed his fiancé down the hall.

“Well that didn’t go very well.” Rian mumbled under his breath and then turned his attention toward the 3 members of the group who were present.

“We need to talk. We can explain everything.” Rian said.

A thousand thoughts were swirling around in Max’s head. This man was Maria’s father and the woman Kyle’s mother. How could they know about them? Were they FBI?

“Not now. We will contact you when we are ready.” Max said.

“Fine, but it has to be soon. We are staying at the Las cruces hotel.” Rian said.

“I think we should go now.” Kristianna said grabbing Rian’s hand.

Rian took one quick look back at Maria and then they walked away.

*************************************************************
Kyle and Isabel arrived at the house a few hours after they had left the hospital. They had sat on the side of the road for a few hours and just talked. Kyle about his Mother and Isabel about how part of her always wanted to know what her real mother was like.

Isabel knew that Kyle needed her support and she owed it to him to be there for him. She still couldn’t believe that she had gotten flashes from him but she figured it must have to do with the heightened emotions of the situation.

“How were they?” Isabel asked as they walked through the door and saw her mom sitting on the couch reading.

“Perfect, as usual.” She said with a smile.

Diane loved spending time with the babies and was even beginning to think of KJ as a surrogate grandchild.

“How were things at the hospital?” Diane asked.

Kyle and Isabel’s eyes locked. So many times Isabel had wanted to tell her mother their secret, because of times like this. When she could really use a good talk. Aside from Alex and Kyle she never really had anyone she could talk all of the crazy things that happened to her through with. Alex was gone and after what had just happened with Kyle he wasn’t an option either. She needed her Mom and because of their self imposed rules she couldn’t confide in her.

“Maria got her blood transfusion. She should be up and about in a few days.” Isabel said.

“That’s wonderful!!” Diane said as a huge smile spread across her face.

“Yeah it is Mrs. Evans.” Kyle said. Mrs. Evans was right even with all the heartache he had to endure today it was all worth it.

“I’m going to go up and check on KJ.” Kyle said as he headed for the stairs. He needed KJ now.

“Oh Kyle a Coach Lombardi called. He said the football workouts would begin next Tuesday.” Diane said as she headed to the counter and retrieved a pen and pad.

Damn it Kyle thought to himself. He had totally forgotten about football. He had received a scholarship from the university for football but that was before KJ. He knew it would be hard but he was going to have to give up football and that scholarship.

“Right. I forgot to tell them that I wasn’t going to be playing.” Kyle said.

“What?!” Isabel said.

“What do you mean you’re not going to play? What about your scholarship? You told me yourself that you couldn’t afford to go with out the scholarship help.” Isabel said clearly getting upset.

“I just can’t. Not with KJ here now. I can’t actually bring him with me to practice and games.” He said shrugging. Didn’t she realize how hard this was for him?

“You can leave KJ with me during those times.” Isabel said matter-of-factly.

“I can’t impose on you like that.” Kyle said.

“Impose on me after all you have done for me over the last year it is the least I can do. I took the year off to be with Lexie and I adore KJ. I’m not taking no for an answer.” She said determined not to let him throw his chance at college away.

“Ok, ok. He said I can see you are not going to let this die and the last thing I want to do is incur your wrath.” Kyle said with a laugh.

Isabel gave Kyle a satisfied smile.

“It’s settled then. Call your coach and tell him you’ll be ready for homeruns in no time.” Isabel said.

“Touchdowns.” Kyle said with a laugh.

“What?” Isabel said.

“In football it’s touchdowns.” He said trying to control his laughter.

“Homeruns, touchdowns It’s all the same to me.” She said and waved her hands in front of her.

“Well if you’re going to be watching my son and coming to games you better learn the difference.” He yelled down to her as he was climbing the stairs.

“I guess you’ll have to teach me.” She yelled back up to him.

“Explaining football to Isabel Evans. Now that should be interesting.” He said as he opened the door to his son’s room.

He faintly heard her yell up to him “I heard that.” Before he closed the door.