Roswell Fanatics

This is for all of my faithful readers that have been asking for an update. Thank you all for reading my chapters and responding so favorably! You've kept me going through it all!

SAFIRESKYE26


CHAPTER 14C


As Michael watched the sun set in the desert the full weight of their current situation hit him completely. He had never walked away from danger before, but then again there hadn’t been any danger since Eli had been born. The thought of never seeing her or Maria again was unbearable. He thought now of Maria’s beautiful blue eyes, God he could get lost in them for days. The last words he’d spoken to her hadn’t exactly been civil and it was starting to get to him. If things didn’t go as he planned he might never be going home again. Could he really let their last conversation be it?

Kyle could sense Michael’s inner turmoil. Deep down he wished he had someone waiting for his call, but he’d wasted most of his life being afraid or pining away for someone that didn’t even notice him. What if Michael was right? What if they didn’t make it out this time? “Call her.”

Michael looked at Kyle strangely. They’d been driving in silence for nearly ten minutes before Kyle had suddenly spoken. “What?”

“It’s hurting you and you’re right…you can’t let the last conversation you had with Maria be it. In case things don’t go our way…you can’t leave her with that memory. It’s not fair.” Kyle’s heart was breaking. He should’ve told Isabel the truth this afternoon then at least he would die knowing he’d confessed his true feelings.

“But…” Michael wasn’t very good at the touchy feely emotions and doing this in front of Kyle upped the stakes greatly.

“I won’t judge you, Michael. You need to do this.” He picked up his cell phone and handed it over. “Send them my love.” He looked back at the road immediately so Michael wouldn’t see the tears glistening in his eyes.

Michael held the phone and slowly dialed Liz’s home number. He assumed that’s where she would be. He held his breath while the phone rang…after three rings he was about to hang up when Maria finally answered.

“Hello?” Maria was terrified. She had been waiting for the phone to ring all day and now she was aware that it could be bad news. She waited but no one said anything. “Hello?”

“Maria.” Michael’s voice broke the moment he said her name. He no longer cared that he was crying and making a jackass out of himself in front of Kyle. All he wanted was to hold Maria again.

Maria started crying instantly. She’d been fuming all day, but hearing his voice now, alive nothing else mattered. “Oh my God, Spaceboy…I’ve been worried sick all day.” Maria grabbed her Cedar Oil and began to inhale rapidly before she hyperventilated. “I miss you, Michael and I love you so much!”

Michael was having trouble finding his voice now. Hearing her speak was like the most beautiful music in the world. He never dared to admit it but Maria’s flamboyant nature was one of the things he loved most about her. “I love you too, Maria. You and Eli are my whole world and I need to know you’ll always remember that, ok?”

Maria calmed her sobs slightly. Something in his voice didn’t sound right. “Michael, what’s wrong? When are you coming home? Have you got Max’s parents? Talk to me!”

Michael had to laugh. This was his Maria. “Baby, we don’t have them yet…and if anything goes wrong…”

“Michael Guerin! Don’t you dare finish that sentence! You are coming home! I need you. We need you. Promise me you’ll come home, Michael. Promise me?”

Michael closed his eyes and imagined twirling her blonde hair through his fingertips. “I promise, Maria. I’ll be coming home soon.” He knew it was wrong to promise her something he couldn’t guarantee, but it didn’t matter. Right now she needed that promise to get her through the night and he’d be damned if he was going to deny her that.

Maria knew. They’d been here before and she knew the risks, but she was almost thankful she didn’t know their plans. “Just remember we love you and we’ll be waiting for you. Eli’s in bed but she’s been asking for her daddy.” Maria didn’t tell him she’d cried herself to sleep. He didn’t need the added stress.

“Kiss her for me and tell her to hold onto my heart for me.” It had always been a private joke between them.

Maria began to cry again but she kept up her end. “Until you ask for it back.” She wanted so badly to say something meaningful out of fear that this might be their last conversation, but all she could do was cry. “I love you.”

“I love you too. Good night, Maria.” Good bye.

~~~~~~~

Liz sat there thinking for a long time. Max was right. God how she hated to admit that, but it was true. She took her cell phone out of her pocket and dialed. The phone had been redirected carefully so nothing could be traced to it. When the person on the other end of the line answered she almost lost her nerve. “Daddy?”

“Lizzie? Baby, where are you? I’ve been worried and when you didn’t call I…”

“I know, Dad…I’m sorry but our plans changed.” Liz tried to hold herself together. The last thing she’d ever wanted to do was make her parents worry again but there was no way to get around it. “Dad…I can’t see you…things are just too dangerous but I wanted you to know that I love you and Mom both so much.” Max reached across the seat and held her hand. “Hopefully the time will come when it will be safe, but it’s not right now and I can’t risk it.” She looked at the single tear sliding down Max’s cheek. “Not for any of us.”

Jeff Parker stood in his kitchen frozen in time. He’d waited years for this. Dreamed about the moment he would hold his little girl again, but once again it was slipping through his fingers. “Lizzie, please? We need to see you.”

“I love you, Dad. I’ll always love you. Don’t ever forget that.” Liz didn’t wait for his response. She couldn’t. She slapped the phone shut and the tears began to flow openly.

“You didn’t have to do that now. We could’ve tried to…”

“No, Max. I didn’t want you to be right, but you were. You saw your parents and look where we are…I can’t risk putting them in this kind of danger. It’s not fair to anyone.” Her tears were so forceful they rocked her entire body. “Please forgive me.”

Max knew why Liz needed to see her parents. Just because she hadn’t told him yet didn’t mean he didn’t already know. He pulled her hand up to his lips and kissed her fingers gently. “There’s nothing to forgive…I love you, Liz.”

“I love you too, Max.”

Alex sat in the backseat watching the exchange between them and it stirred emotions inside of him that he didn’t know existed. So many things were running through his mind that he could barely keep them clear. He kept getting one clear image, almost too clear, of Max holding him but Max was much younger. Liz was there, sitting beside him and he looked so sad. Alex thought it seemed familiar but he couldn’t understand why. Until the memory of the flash he had received from Liz rolled through his mind. It was the day Max had given him up. He had wanted him. His father had wanted him. He could feel the sadness with the memory. He could feel it like it was happening this very moment. With everything going on he hadn’t thought about the fact that he might never get to know his father. To know what he was like and to know what it felt like to be loved unconditionally. His adoptive parents had tried but he never seemed to measure up to the standards they had set for him. He had been loved but not like this. “Dad?”

Max’s surprise almost made him drive off the road. Dad. He knew he’d heard him correctly. “Yes, Alex?”

“I know you loved me…love me and you never would’ve given me up if you’d had a better choice. I just want you to know that no matter what happens I forgive you.” He stopped for a moment to see if Max would say anything but he appeared to be speechless. “Not that you expected to be forgiven for anything, but you know…just in case…I understand…I get it now.” He looked at Liz now. “Thank you for making my father so happy…I wish I’d gotten the chance to know you better.”

Liz reached over the seat and took his hand in hers. “Don’t give up on that wish just yet. I’m not ready to go anywhere.” She smiled at him and somewhere inside she found hope. Hope that maybe, just maybe they would see home again.

~~~~~~~

“Are you guys ready?” Pete had been unlucky enough to have the entire drive to the base to psych himself out of this entire plan, but he knew it had to be done.

They all shook their heads nervously. Max looked beyond the fence and he saw the place that had haunted his dreams for too many years. Tonight not only was he going to get his parents back, he was going to let go of a past he no longer wanted to remember.

“Ok. It’s almost nine o clock. At nine the shift changes to a skeleton crew. There should only be two maybe three agents including Agent Sullivan.” He knew John would still be here. He was too obsessed with this project not to be.

“Agent Sullivan? He’s the one…” Max couldn’t finish his thought aloud but he could tell by Pete’s expression that he understood.

“Yes. So, you all know where you’re going right?” He watched everyone nod again. “Good. I’m going to do my best to distract Agent Sullivan while you get your parents, Max. Once you have them don’t look back. For anything.”

“What about you?” Max couldn’t just leave Pete to fend for himself…he’d be killed for sure.

“Don’t worry…I’ll be fine.” He was scared but he couldn’t admit that. Not to Max Evans. He knew what this man before him had endured and he refused to look like a coward. He glanced at his watch along with the others as they all made sure they were synchronized. “Let’s go.” Together the six of them went to face their biggest fears. Praying they would live to see the sunrise.

~~~~~~~

Isabel paced the hotel room. Lily and the babies were finally asleep again. She figured she had worn them all out with her excessive talking…something she always did when she was nervous. She’d tried to dreamwalk her mother and father earlier but had been unsuccessful. Maybe she should’ve gone with them? It didn’t matter now…it was too late for that but she had to try her father again. That she could do. Isabel lay down on the bed and closed her eyes. Normally it took some time before she could make a connection but this time it came swiftly.

“I don’t know anything!” Phillip screamed as the agent continued to beat him.

“Oh my God, Dad!” Isabel couldn’t believe what she was seeing. It was the White Room. They were holding him exactly where they’d held Max. “Dad, it’s ok. Max is coming! Hold on…Max is coming!”

The connection broke. Why? Why had it broken so quickly? Her father. Oh my God! She could see it! They were torturing him! She tried to dreamwalk her mother but got nothing. This was a nightmare! She had to get in! Nothing seemed to be working. Something was blocking her. Isabel jumped up and grabbed her phone to call Max. He had to hurry. She let the phone ring several times but eventually it just disconnected. None of them had voicemail for security reasons so she couldn’t even tell Max what she had seen. Hurry Max! Dear God please hurry!

~~~~~~~

“I’m sorry, sir but we don’t have any on the base,” the young agent squirmed knowing that crossing Agent Sullivan was an extremely dangerous move, “but I’ve ordered it and it can be here within another hour.” He continued to hold his breath while he waited for Agent Sullivan’s reaction.

Agent Sullivan kicked the chair sitting in the hallway. “What do you mean we don’t have any on the base? I specifically requested it weeks ago in case it was needed.”

“I don’t know, sir…it should be here but it’s not…it’s on it’s way though.”

“Damned incompetence! That’s all I see around me! Incompetence!” Agent Sullivan turned and walked away quickly. He entered his office and immediately went for the phone. He dialed the number he had been given earlier and waited for Agent Cage to pick up.

“Yes?” The deep voice on the other end inquired.

“Sir, it’s Agent Sullivan.” His right hand had started shaking. He knew how important this information was and he was failing in his duties.

“Well? Did you get the information I need yet or not?”

“Sir…there’s been a delay…it seems the sodium pentothal isn’t on the base as I requested.”

Agent Cage laughed. “And let me guess…it’s not your fault?”

“Well, sir I…”

“Silence! It was your job to check your supplies. Now if you can’t handle this simple task then maybe I should find someone else.”

“I can handle it, sir. It should be here soon and I’ll finish this.”

“For your sake, I hope you’re right. What would your uncle think?”

The words stung right through Agent Sullivan’s brave façade. What would his uncle think? He was about to respond but there was only a dial tone. His time was running out. He’d had enough of these games. Agent Sullivan left his office and was about to enter the interrogation room holding Phillip Evans when he heard the explosion. Immediately he drew his gun and headed down the corridor. He looked both ways at the end of the hallway but all he could see was smoke. “Agent Williams!” He called for the younger agent to assist him in case he needed back up. He knew both Diane and Phillip Evans were restrained so at the moment they were of no concern to him.

“Agent Sullivan?” Agent Williams had made his way down the corridor and was standing directly behind Agent Sullivan with his weapon already drawn. “What happened?”

“I don’t know yet. Who all is still here?”

“No one, sir. Just the two of us...well and Agent Acquaviva. Everyone’s gone.”

Dammit! Max Evans! He knew it was Max. “I want you to go for back up…I’m going to find Agent Acquaviva and check on our detainees. Hurry!” Agent Sullivan watched Agent Williams run for the rear end of the building before heading back towards the interrogation area. Max Evans wouldn’t get away with this!

~~~~~~~

Liz sat with Alex watching for any sign of Max, Michael, or Kyle. The mindwarp was working but she could see the beads of sweat starting to gather on Alex’s forehead. She wanted so much to reassure him but she couldn’t take the chance of breaking the mindwarp…so she waited. They’d been gone two minutes. Max said if they weren’t back in six minutes she was to leave immediately and take Alex with her. Come on Max. Please.
~~~~~~~

When they reached the door to the interrogation room holding Phillip Evans, Max paused. He didn’t know if he could go in there. His father needed him desperately but the fears of a teenage boy were taking over in his mind. The things they’d done to him were still too horrible to think of.

Kyle sensing Max’s hesitation quickly focused in on his thoughts. He should’ve known what this would do to Max beforehand. Max had been plagued with nightmares for as long as he could remember. He felt sorry for Max but his hesitation was endangering all of them. “Step back, Max. If you can’t deal with this then you should go back to Liz and Alex. Let us finish this.”

Max took in a deep breath. He couldn’t let his father down. He turned the handle and threw the door open. The first sight of his father made him ill. His lip was bleeding and both of his eyes were bruised but he was smiling. Max raced to his side and waved his hands over the restraints freeing him.

Phillip grabbed his son’s face. “I knew you would come…your mother? Where’s your mother?” The panic in his voice was obvious.

Max prayed they wouldn’t find her in a similar condition. Kyle and Michael grabbed Phillip while Max ran to find his mother. He closed the distance quickly knowing they were running out of time. When he reached the room where his mother was being held he was shocked to see she was gone. He watched Kyle and Michael exit the room with his father a moment later. “Michael! She’s not here!” He could tell by the expressions on their faces that they believed her to be dead. “I’ll keep looking. Go!” Max ran down the corridor but couldn’t find her in any of the rooms he checked.

~~~~~~~

Pete had feared this moment but had hoped it wouldn’t come to this. “John. Come on man…put the gun down.” He tried his best to keep his voice level but that was impossible. He knew his fear was showing. “You don’t want to do this…she’s innocent. Do you really want to kill an innocent woman?”

Agent Sullivan was standing almost fifteen feet away with his gun pointing directly at Diane’s temple. “I should’ve known it was you! You couldn’t let me finish my investigation, could you? What? You want all the glory? Did Agent Cage send you here to clean up my mess?” He was shaking violently with fury but kept the gun pointed at Diane’s head.

Cage. Pete should’ve known. Only a sick bastard like Cage would hold these people. “John, you’re wrong. I’m on your side.” He watched Agent Sullivan’s shaky trigger finger closely, afraid he could lose it at any moment. “Let her go, John. We need to see where the explosion came from. We need to get out of here.”

Pete could see Max coming up out of the corner of his eye. He had no clue what Max’s gifts were but hopefully Max could get them out of this mess. Suddenly the smoke in the corridor completely cleared, throwing Pete off guard. Luckily for them, it had the same desired reaction on Agent Sullivan. He watched John lower his gun for a brief moment long enough for Diane to thrust her elbow back into his stomach. “Diane, run!” Pete watched as Diane started to run but Agent Sullivan’s gun was redirected towards her instantly. “No!” Agent Sullivan fired but Max had come around the corner and dove in front of his mother. Pete watched in awe as Max created a green shield in front of him causing the bullet to just drop.

Max grabbed his mother with his other hand and helped her to her feet. “Get out of here!”
Max continued to hold his shield.

“Max, I can’t just…”

“Mom, get out of here! Now!” Diane kissed him quickly on the cheek and hurried off in the direction her son was pointing. Once he could see her no more he dropped his shield. He was going to face this agent head on. “You wanted me! Well here I am! Now what?”

“Max Evans. The infamous Max Evans. I’ll bet you’re pretty proud of yourself about now, but you know you’ve just sacrificed yourself.” Agent Sullivan laughed loudly. “You don’t honestly think I’ll ever let you go, do you?” He continued to smile.

“You don’t honestly think I’ll stay, do you?” Max asked just as sarcastically.

Pete watched Agent Sullivan nervously. His gun was now aimed at Max and yet Max had dropped his only protection. His only defense against a man that wouldn’t hesitate to kill him. “You have him now, John. Drop the gun. I’ve got him.” Pete reached for his cuffs that he kept and grabbed Max by the wrists.

~~~~~~~

Liz’s heart skipped a beat when she saw them running towards her. For a moment she thought they were going to be safe until she realized that Max and Diane were not with them. “Kyle? Where’s Max? Where’s Diane?”

“We couldn’t find her, Liz…Max is still looking.”

“We have to go, Liz! Now!” Michael was already pulling Phillip along with him and Kyle reluctantly followed.

“No! I won’t leave without him!” Liz turned to run down the corridor to find her husband, but a hand stopped her. Turning back around she was shocked to see it was Alex.

“Liz, you have to. He made me promise.” Alex dropped his head for a moment not wanting to meet her glare but he knew he had to keep this promise. It was the only thing his father had ever asked of him.

Liz knew what he was thinking, but she couldn’t leave without Max. “Alex, let me go. I have to find him!” She struggled to free herself but it was no use. He was as determined as she was. “Please, Alex? Let me go.” She pleaded with him hoping he would listen, but she knew Max had warned him about this. She fell against him in tears. They expected her to leave Max behind.

~~~~~~~

“Thanks, Pete. I didn’t know you had it in you.” Agent Sullivan lowered his gun but did not return it to its holster. “Let’s go have some fun, huh?” He smiled at Pete but he didn’t trust him. This seemed too easy.

“I think there’s been enough fun for one night. It’s over for now, John.” Pete knew he needed to get John’s gun away from him. He’d lowered it but not put it away. The distrust was evident in his eyes meaning this was still far from over. He needed to buy Diane some time to get out of here with the others but not long enough to where they would leave Max behind.

John laughed. “It’s far from over.” He walked over until he was face to face with Max. “I’ve waited years for this moment and I intend to savor every second. You see, Max…I know you’re not the nice boy next door everyone always thought you were. You’re a killer.” His anger was boiling at the surface again.

Pete wasn’t really sure what John was talking about but the look in his eyes had him worried. He made sure the cuffs weren’t fastened before stepping away from Max. “John, he’s not a killer. Where does this sick obsession come from?”

“Sick? You think it’s sick? Would you think it was sick if this man here had killed your uncle? I’m thinking, no.” Agent Sullivan walked back and forth in front of Max never for a moment taking his eyes away from him. “Max, let’s think back about sixteen or seventeen years and think about anything you might’ve done that you’d like to confess now.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Max stated flatly, completely emotionless even though this man’s hatred was becoming clearer. “I was a kid…in high school.”

“Oh, no. You were no ordinary kid. I already know all about the White Room. I know what the FBI did to you. But especially I know what you did in retaliation.” He reached forward and grabbed Max by his shirt and lowered his voice. “You killed my uncle in cold blood, you son of a bitch. I believe you knew him as Agent Pierce. Now you’re going to finally pay for what you did to my family.” Agent Sullivan pushed Max backwards and raised his gun but almost instantly another shot rang out from behind Max.

Pete watched the bullet enter straight into John’s chest. He’d had no choice. It was the last thing he ever thought he’d do. Shoot a fellow agent, but it was obvious now that John was crazy. Immediately he put his gun away and hurried to John’s side but before he ever made it to Agent Sullivan he saw his gun raise and fire instinctively. He felt the bullet go into his shoulder and went down in a cloud of darkness. The last thing he heard was Max.

“No!”



TBC

CHAPTER 15A


“Can you move?” Max looked at the bleeding shoulder wound intensely. He knew he could heal it but the repercussions of doing so kept him from acting impulsively.

Pete coughed feeling like his lungs were filling with fluid despite the fact that it had been a clean shot through his shoulder. “Is there an exit wound?” He coughed again feeling the pain in his shoulder become sharper.

Max didn’t want to move him but knowing he would most likely try to get up if Max didn’t look, he gently rolled him onto his side. “Yeah.” Max’s breathing was rapid and his hands were shaking. There was just so much blood. “Clean exit…I can…” He trailed off before finishing his thought. Could he really risk this again and on a federal agent no less? He’d already seen what Max was capable of and had risked his own life to help them. He finally decided that he had to at least offer. “I can heal this but there are consequences.” Max said nervously.

Pete looked back up at Max somewhat confused. Consequences? What did Max mean by that? Pete had heard of Max Evans’s ability to heal but had figured it to be nothing more than a rumor. He realized now after Max’s statement that he had indeed healed Liz Parker in the Crashdown Café many years before. Pete was astonished by this recent development. This is all real he thought and laughed to himself. It took him a minute to notice the expression on Max’s face. He’d forgotten where he was for a moment, completely wrapped up in the whole idea of aliens are among us. He’d heard it for years but it was true! Finally he answered Max. “What kind of consequences?”

Max felt extremely uneasy answering this question. It would open a box of questions he had spent years to close. “You would be…different. Still human…but different.” Max could no longer meet his eyes. He knew he owed this man his life but he was risking others’ lives by having this conversation.

So, it was true! Max Evans had not only saved Liz Parker’s life but had changed her in doing so. Pete knew he was repeating things over and over again in his head but there was just so much to come to terms with. The one thing he knew for sure was that he had done the right thing. The FBI would’ve tortured this family and most likely never have let them go. “If you heal me and I have no injuries it would look as though I were a traitor and shot Agent Sullivan in cold blood…I don’t want that.” Pete sat up slowly against Max’s insistent hand trying to keep him lying down. “They would come for you, for your parents and then this would be for nothing…it has to end tonight.”

Max wasn’t really sure what Pete was talking about and was worried that he was losing too much blood. “What are you talking about? It will never end regardless.” Max’s heart sank at the admission knowing they would never truly be free.

Pete shook his head. “That’s not true…I can end this…tonight. I’ll tell them I let your parents go and that Agent Sullivan went crazy and started shooting.” Pete was still trying to catch his breath. “I’ll tell them nothing of you. You were never here and your parents knew nothing.”

“They’ll never believe you.”

Pete knew Max was probably right but it was a chance. A chance for freedom…for all of them. “You might be right, but it’s a chance I’m willing to take. I can take the fall on this one but you have to go. Now.”

“I can’t let you do this.” Max’s pride prevented him from walking away. “My family will be better off with me gone. The FBI will finally have everything they’ve ever wanted and my family will have a chance at a normal life. I’m not going anywhere.”

~~~~~~~

“Alex, please let me go.” Liz cried into his shoulder continuing to plead with him to let her go. “I can’t leave him behind…I can’t!” Liz finally jerked free of his hold only to be grabbed once again by Kyle. “No!”

Kyle could feel her pain but even beyond that he felt something more. He wasn’t quite sure how but he could sense a second heartbeat. Suddenly Liz’s reaction was clear. He’d known Liz would never leave Max behind but now more than ever. He placed one hand on each side of Liz’s face and met her eyes. “Ok, Liz. Ok.” He whispered quietly so only she could hear.

Liz wasn’t sure at first but Kyle had just agreed with her. They wouldn’t be leaving Max behind. “Thank you, Kyle.”

“We go back for him.” Kyle stated clearly.

“But Maxwell said…”

“Michael…do you honestly think he’d ever leave you behind?”

Michael felt immediate guilt because he knew Kyle was right. Max would never leave one of them behind. “Ok, but who goes? We can’t all go.”

“Me.”

Michael, Kyle, and Liz all turned to face Alex stunned, by his offer. “No.” Liz spoke first. “Max has waited half of his life to find you…for something to happen to you now… he would never forgive any of us.”

“I didn’t ask, Liz. I’m going.” He looked straight at Kyle now. “You and Michael should take Liz back to the motel now…I’ll find my father.”

“Look, kid…that’s really brave of you to offer but Liz is right. If Max lives through this he’d kill us all.” Kyle said knowing he wasn’t completely off the mark with this one.

“Kyle, you’re a good man but this is something I have to do.” Before there was time for any more objections Alex brought up a shield in front of himself. He watched the glowing green shield, amazed by his ability to actually create one. He held it for a moment to make sure he was strong enough to maintain it and then began to walk backwards away from the vehicles. “Go! Now!”

“Damn crazy jackass! He’s just like his father!” Kyle smiled as the words escaped his mouth. Despite the fact that strangers had raised him, he was Max Evans’s son.

Liz, Michael, and Kyle watched in awe at the amount of strength and control Alex was currently displaying before them. They continued to watch as he disappeared back into the building to find his father. Reluctantly the three of them loaded a barely conscious Phillip and a weary Diane into the van to leave. As they drove back to the small motel Liz silently prayed to herself. Come back to me, Max. Come back to me.
~~~~~~~

Dammit! Why hadn’t they called? Isabel had tried Max’s cell phone repeatedly for the past hour but there was no response. She had finally convinced herself to go after them when Lily woke up.

“Any news?”

“Nothing! Max isn’t answering his cell and no one has even called! I should go after them…I have to.” Isabel stood and headed for the door but came to a halt at the sound of a phone ringing. She dived for the bed certain that she was going to miss this call. She had almost fallen off the side of the bed in the process but she had the phone and quickly flipped it open. “Hello?”

“I have someone here that would really like to talk to you.” Michael smiled knowing he had just made Isabel’s dreams come true.

“Isabel? Baby, are you there?”

“Mom!” Isabel began to cry the moment she heard her mother’s sweet voice. “Oh my God, Mom…I thought something had happened to you! Are you ok? Is Dad? Where’s Dad? The others? Are the others ok?” Isabel was speaking much too fast for her mother to try to interrupt her. Once she had finally lost her breath from speaking, her mother was able to interject.

“I’m fine, honey and so is your Dad. We’re just really happy to be on our way to you.” Diane had lived for this moment for so long. She dreamed of holding her beautiful daughter in her arms once again and now that dream was coming true.

“What about the others, Mom? Max, Liz, Kyle, Michael, and Alex? Are they all with you?” Isabel had a bad feeling in the pit of her stomach. Before her mother even had time to speak she knew Max was in trouble. “Max! Where’s Max, Mom?” She was bordering on hysteria when Lily came to join her on the bed. “Oh my God! Max!”

Lily reached over and took the phone from Isabel’s trembling hand. With one arm around Isabel the whole time she listened to Diane relay the events that had transpired over the past few hours. Lily occasionally made gasping noises frightening Isabel further, but attempting to reassure her over and over again. By the time Lily hung up the phone her heart had begun to ache. Alex and Max. They had stayed behind so the others could escape safely. Alex’s actions didn’t surprise her…he’d never walked away from anything in his life. But now here she was with two newborn infants and no certainty that their father would ever come home. She held Isabel and they continued to cry…together.

~~~~~~~

“Michael! Oh my God you’re ok! I’ve been so worried. After you hung up earlier…” Maria was crying so hard that it was difficult to find the words to speak to her husband at the moment. Her worst fears had been playing over and over again in her head but he was ok…her Spaceboy was ok.

“I’m fine, Maria.” Michael had to choke back tears of his own. The moment Diane hung up with Lily he had called Maria. While he was still concerned for Max and Alex he needed to hear her voice. “I told you before I left that everything would be ok, didn’t I?”

“So, you all made it out safely? How? Did the FBI just let you walk in?” Maria asked sarcastically. It all sounded too easy. She was not usually one to look a gift horse in the mouth but they’d been here before and this was too easy. “Michael, I love you but can I talk to Liz?” Something in her gut told her Michael was concealing the whole truth from her but Liz was a horrible liar.

Liz looked at the phone as if it was a serpent that could reach out and attack any second. She knew Maria would know if she was lying…it was a gift she had developed when they were still children. She took the phone from Michael watching his head shake a determined no. He had not told Maria everything and now he was depending on Liz to do the same. Liz took a deep breath and brought the phone to her ear. Maria began to talk before Liz could even say a word. It was Maria.

“Chica! Are you ok? Are you hurt? How’s Max? Kyle?”

Liz swallowed hard before answering. She could do this she told herself again. “We’re fine, Maria…just a little tired.” Liz looked at Michael again. He was now making gestures with his hands implying that he would kill her if she told Maria anything. Normally she would’ve told Maria just to get a rise out of Michael but this time he had Maria’s best interests at heart. “We can’t wait to get home now.”

Maria let out a sigh of relief. “Thank God. So when exactly are you coming home?”

Liz felt so uncomfortable lying to Maria. All she wanted at this moment in time was to be rid of this phone. “Not sure yet…it’s been a crazy night so we’ll probably work out all of the details in the morning. Hey, Maria…Kyle wants to say hi.” She launched the phone towards Kyle in the front seat just as he turned around. It was someone else’s turn to lie to Maria.

“Liz.” Kyle cursed under his breath before putting the phone to his ear. Maria was like a vulture circling a dead animal when it came to secrets. Even Michael was usually broken down quickly under her interrogations. “Hi, Maria. How’s it goin’?”

“How’s it going? How’s it going…well let’s see…I’ve been more afraid today than I ever have in my entire life and my best friend and my husband are hundreds of miles away while I’m stuck here with two little girls and an irritating teenager. How do you think it’s going?”

“That good, huh? Well it was really great talkin’ to ya but I’m handing you back over to your man now.” Kyle handed the phone to Michael quickly against his protests.

Michael swerved and almost ran off the road after dropping the phone into his lap. These idiots are gonna get us all killed! The thought immediately washed over him and made him feel queasy. Max and Alex weren’t out of the woods yet. “Maria, I love you but it’s dark and I have to drive so I’ll call you first thing in the morning. Ok?”

Maria felt better knowing that everyone was safe. It was late and she hadn’t slept in over twenty-four hours so she decided to let Michael go. He would be home soon. “I love you too, baby. Be careful and kiss everyone for me. You know what I mean. Don’t forget to miss me.”

Michael’s heart ached for her so badly. He wanted to be home with his wife and daughter more than anything in this world. “I miss you more every second. Kiss Eli for me. Good night, Maria.”

“Good night.” As she hung up the phone she realized she still had a bad feeling in her gut but for once she figured she was over reacting. They were all fine and would be home soon.

~~~~~~~

“Max, please…go now.” Pete was still trying to convince Max to leave but had been unsuccessful so far. He was determined to see him through this. Pete knew it was only a matter of time before Agent Williams stumbled back across them and then he wouldn’t be able to explain anything the way that he wanted to. “Please go.”

“I can’t. The mindwarp…the other agent will know something’s not right. There was no real explosion but he’ll claim there was. I’m just as trapped as you are. Our only chance is to run.”

“No, it’s not.” Alex came up behind his father obviously startling him.

“Alex? What are you doing here? You have to leave!” Max insisted.

“Not unless you’re coming with me.” Alex approached the two men and eyed the agent’s wound skeptically. He’d lost a lot of blood…why hadn’t Max healed him? “Are you gonna take care of that?” Alex questioned pointing at the fallen agent.

Max nodded. “He won’t let me. He’s insisting we leave him behind but if we do…” Max didn’t need to finish his thought aloud. Alex shook his head in complete understanding.

“Then we have to take him with us. There’s no other choice and I promised Liz I would bring you back to her safely.” He smiled an easy smile despite the situation and winked at Max.

“Ok, we agree…you’re going.” Max reached forward to slide an arm under Pete but he immediately slapped the helping hand away.

“No. Max, I’m not trying to be noble. The fact is if they don’t find me here they’ll come searching for the both of us and we’ll never be safe. I’m doing this as much for myself as I am for you.”

“But how can we just leave you?” Max questioned not liking the idea of leaving him here alone, bleeding.

Pete knew Max was a good man, which made this even easier to do. He knew the outcome might be risky, but he also knew this family finally deserved peace. “Trust me…I know what I’m doing.” Pete winced in pain even as he spoke. “I’ll be in touch soon and when it’s safe I’ll come to you…that is if you don’t mind?” Pete realized he had just assumed Max would let him come to them. To be near his family after he walked away from the only life he’d ever known.

Max, sensing his concern, smiled and assured him instantly. “After what you’ve done for my family you will always be welcome.”

Pete smiled widely. “I’m sorry the FBI has mistreated you. They obviously only looked at you like an experiment and never once looked at the man.” He shook Max’s hand and felt the small bond of friendship and understanding form.

“You’re a good man, Agent Acquaviva.”

“It’s Pete. After tonight…just Pete.”

Max slowly rose from his position next to Pete. “I’ll be expecting your call.”

“You can count on it.” The two men smiled at one another as an eager Alex led his father out of danger.

“Oh no.” Max stopped once they had reached their car. “The other agent?”

“Taken care of.” Alex said as he slid into the driver’s seat.

Max bent down to look at him but did not get in. “What do you mean?”

“I mean I took care of him. He won’t remember much about tonight.” Alex saw the puzzled look on his father’s face so he decided to explain his comments. “I don’t know how but I was able to use the mindwarp to persuade him nothing had happened.”

“How? I don’t understand.”

“I don’t either but it’s almost instinctive. I knew we needed to be protected so I just did it. I don’t really know how…it just came naturally.” Now he saw the concern across Max’s face. “Don’t worry, Dad…I’m nothing like my mother.”

Max smiled back at him. “No…you’re not.”

~~~~~~~

The moment Diane walked through the door Isabel embraced her in a fierce hug almost knocking her off of her exhausted feet. “I never thought I’d see you again.” Isabel looked towards the door where Michael and Kyle were standing with her father. He looked awful. Not wanting to, she let go of her mother and ran to her father’s side. “Dad. What did they do to you?” Isabel knew the answer and hoped he wouldn’t really tell her any details. She felt guilty for this but the truth was something she couldn’t bear to hear.

“Izzie baby? Is it really you?” Phillip whispered barely even audible.

“Yeah, Daddy…it’s me. I’ve missed you so much.”

Although it took every last ounce of his strength to do so, Phillip stood up without the support he had been leaning on and finally held his daughter. “My little girl.” He whispered in her ear.

Isabel laughed through her tears. “Not so little anymore, Daddy. You’ve missed so much.” It broke her heart to know that they could never get back the fifteen years the FBI had stolen from them, but she was determined never to lose another moment with them. No matter what it took she would never let go of them again.

“You won’t have to worry about that anymore…your Mother and I are coming with you.” Phillip looked to Diane who smiled and nodded in return.

Kyle desperately wished this was his own father but he knew that he had another life now. Diane and Phillip had been through hell so it was understandable that they wouldn’t want to return home. They would iron out the details later. Right now Kyle was basking in the glow of the joy he finally saw in Isabel’s eyes.

Michael watched the scene unfold from the door. Maria and Eli were his only family. He had no parents to miss so maybe he was more fortunate than the others, but right now he would’ve given anything to hold Maria again. His thoughts then went to Max, his brother in every way that counted. He was still missing and until Michael saw him walk through the door he would feel no peace.

~~~~~~~

“It seems so unreal that this might finally be over.” Max was talking to himself more than he was to Alex. He knew this was all new to Alex so the full weight of everything that had happened might not really register with him yet.

“You’ve been dealing with this a long time haven’t you?”

“Since the day I saved Liz.” Although that day had thrown all of their lives into turmoil it was still a day he never once regretted

“Do you have any regrets?”

“About Liz or the rest of my life?”

“Both I guess.”

“Only the day I let you go. It was the hardest day of my life. Even harder than the day I left Roswell and my old life.”

Alex knew this was a dangerous question but he had to know. “Do you regret my mother?”

Max sighed. The kid already knew how to get to him. “Yes and no.”

“Care to elaborate?”

“I’ve never regretted for a moment having you, but as hard as this is for you to hear I’m not going to lie. I never loved your mother. She used me and manipulated me until she got what she wanted. To tell you the truth I don’t even believe she ever loved me. I think it was just what she was programmed to do.”

“What does that mean?”

“Someday I’ll tell you the story of how we came to be but for right now I can tell you that your mother and I were raised very differently. The Evans took in Isabel and me and they raised us with so much love, but Tess and Michael were not so lucky. Michael had an abusive foster father but he eventually got away from him…Tess was raised by our protector, Nasedo.” Max paused for a moment to recall the man that had betrayed him since before he was ever born…well hatched. “He was supposed to keep us safe but in all actuality he was our enemy. Completely unfeeling and emotionless, with no human side at all. Tess was raised with no love or affection by a cold-hearted murderer with his own agenda. He trained her young that humans were weak and of no use, and he trained her to be as unfeeling as he was. She would stop at nothing to get what she wanted…me.”

“But if you were always with Liz then how did I ever come to be?” Alex was lost. None of what Max was telling him made sense. Had he betrayed Liz or his mother?

“I was with Liz but when your mother came along with Nasedo and all the talk of our destinies, Liz walked away from me. She said she couldn’t stand in the way of my future, which was apparently supposed to be with Tess. I fought to win her back but it was no use. Your mother made sure to be there to pick up the broken pieces, so I finally began to believe she was my destiny.”

“What changed your mind?”

Max didn’t want to answer the question but he suspected Alex might already know, so he refused to lie to his son. “After she became pregnant with you she mindwarped me into believing that you couldn’t survive in Earth’s atmosphere. So, we decided to leave Earth. We were going back to our home planet but before we left we found out that your mother had murdered a close friend of ours. Obviously we were all devastated and it was only then that Tess revealed to me her true intentions. She was supposed to return carrying my child and deliver Isabel, Michael, and me to our greatest enemy.” Max thought back to that day in the granolith chamber. The day he had finally seen Tess for the evil she was.

“She was going to let them kill you?” Alex felt like he was going to be sick. The truth was more horrible than he ever could’ve imagined.

“That was Nasedo’s plan but in the end she left with just you.”

“Why would you let her leave knowing what she was capable of?”

“Because I still believed you would die if she stayed. I had no choice. My friend was already gone but you were alive and growing inside of her…I couldn’t risk your safety. I wanted to kill her for what she had done, but I was no murderer and I wouldn’t have killed my own son. If I had destroyed her you wouldn’t be here. So, as I stated before…yes and no. I don’t regret you so I can not totally regret her.”

“This all seems so unreal.” Alex thought back to the flash he had received from Liz. It didn’t fit. “I got these images when I touched Liz and one of them was of my mother. It was about the night she died. She didn’t seem evil.”

“That’s because you gave her humanity. She knew that because of her own actions you were in danger along with the rest of us so she sacrificed herself.”

“And you let her?”

“I didn’t know until she was gone, but I stand by what she did. I think even she was ashamed of the things she had done and it was her only way of finding peace.” Max looked at Alex and from the side could tell he was silently crying. “She wanted you to be safe. She loved you and in her final moments she proved she could be completely unselfish. I know it’s hard to understand, but she did do the right thing.”

“Thank you…thank you for the truth.”

“Alex, I know I just laid a lot on your shoulders but there’s something you need to be aware of.”

“What?” Just the thought that there was more almost made him panic.

“It’s about Liz’s powers…her gifts.” Max knew there was no easy way to say this. “They came from me. From my healing her, which is also how Kyle has them.”

“So.”

He had hoped he wouldn’t have to do this now but now might be the last quiet time they would have for a while. “Alex…I had to heal Lily after she gave birth.” Max watched Alex’s expression change and knew he understood. Lily would be different now. She would be like him.



TBC

Finally, here's the update. I know that in some parts of this it will appear to be almost over but I can assure you there's at least 2 more parts to go. I hope you enjoy!

CHAPTER 15B

“What do you mean different?” Alex didn’t really understand what Max had just told him. How could she ever be like him?

“It’s kind of a long story…are you up to it right now?” Max was still worried about Alex’s state of mind after everything he’d been through this evening.

“Yeah…I need to know.” Alex looked at Max and it was easy to see the uneasiness in his eyes. “I’m fine, Dad…honestly.”

Hearing Alex call him Dad was a dream come true. He still wasn’t completely convinced it was a good idea to tell him right now on top of everything else, but Alex had proved himself to be extremely resilient under pressure. “Ok…the day I healed Liz I just did it. I had always known I was different and knew I had special abilities…when I saw Liz lying there I didn’t think about anything other than her. I didn’t know there were consequences to my healing her until a few years later.” He eyed Alex, waiting for any sign of panic, but he appeared to be calm. “Liz started changing. It was minor at first, but it wasn't long before she started showing signs of powers like mine. Hers are different, but nevertheless still along the same lines of women in our own race.” Max looked at Alex again, still listening intently. He’d expected him to panic, but instead he seemed intrigued. “She can see things, like premonitions. She can connect with people, which you already know. That’s how she was able to connect with Lily when she needed help. She has physical powers she can use for protection and to change things, and she’s also an empath.”

Alex couldn’t help but be fascinated. He was finally learning answers to questions he’d had for years. Part of him thought he should be scared, but he just wasn’t. “An empath? So, she can like read minds?”

“Sometimes, but not always. Our powers are heightened by our emotions, so that’s usually when they’re strongest. Alex, do you understand that Lily will develop special abilities? It’s almost guaranteed.”

Alex laughed aloud, obviously surprising Max. “Believe it or not I’m not worried. It’s Lily. She’s always known I was different, but it never bothered her. Look how easily she handled the pregnancy considering the situation she was in. I know you don’t know her very well, but she’ll just be grateful you saved her life…regardless of the consequences.”

Max smiled at his son. “She seems very special…so much like Liz when we first met.”

“You really love her, don’t you?” Alex inquired.

Max was thrown off by the question. The answer was simple for him, but would it hurt his son knowing she was the woman who had kept him from loving his mother? “Yes…I love her very much. I have since the first time I ever saw her. I’m sorry…I know that can’t be easy to hear.”

“Actually, it’s fine. I never knew my mother and unfortunately most of the things I do know aren’t good...Liz seems very nice.” Alex thought back to the images she had showed him and smiled. Yes, Liz is a good person.

“She is…and she understands my love for you no matter what the circumstances were surrounding your birth. It’s not easy for her to think about Tess, but she’s amazing and she’ll be good to you.” Max felt the need to reassure Alex about Liz. He didn’t want him to feel like a burden.

Alex laughed again. “You know what, Dad? You worry too much.” He smiled widely at his father, wondering how this could feel so natural. It was as if he’d been with him his whole life. He felt a small pang of guilt, suddenly thinking about his adoptive parents.

Max noticed Alex’s smile change to a frown and immediately began to panic. “Alex? What is it?”

“I was just thinking…about my parents…my other parents.” Alex spoke quietly, almost afraid to even mention his parents to Max. He knew it was bound to be a sore subject since Max had never wanted to give him up in the first place.

Max knew what he meant. While he was jealous of the people that had the pleasure of raising Alex, he knew and understood that they were a part of him. “Have you thought about what you’re going to do? I know this is hard, but if you come with us there can’t be any further communication between you. It sucks…I know, but we’ve spent half of our lives running and we’re finally safe. I want you to come home with me, but I have to think about everyone’s safety. If you decide to go home…well I would understand if that’s a choice you have to make.” Max could feel the tears swelling behind his eyes. How could he ever let his son go again?

Alex nodded. He had expected this and had already given it a lot of thought, but he couldn’t make this decision without Lily. “I have to talk to Lily…she’s my family too and I can’t make this decision alone.”

Max smiled. He’s so much like me. “I can respect that…just know that I love you.”

“Me too, Dad.”

They drove in complete silence for the remainder of the trip. They were both exhausted and while they both knew there was more to say…they knew it could wait.

~~~~~~~

“So, we still don’t know if they’re safe?” Phillip was conscious now and terrified of the prospect that the FBI had his son and grandson.

“They’re alive.” Liz whispered, still watching out the window.

“How do you know that for sure? We should go after them!” Phillip was getting agitated with everyone’s willingness to just sit back and wait.

Liz finally stepped away from the window and faced Max’s parents. “I know they’re alive because I can feel it.” Liz turned back towards the window. “I would know if Max was dead.”

“That’s sweet, Liz, but I could really use something a little more concrete.” Phillip knew she meant well, but he needed proof. He needed to see them and he needed them right now!

“Oh my God!” Liz screamed and ran out of the room with no warning. She’d seen the car coming and her instincts told her it was Max. She barely gave Max enough time to stop the car and get out before she was in his arms. “Max! I was so worried!” She tucked her head beneath his chin and just held it there. She never wanted to let go of him again. She turned slightly so that Alex was within her view. “Thank you, Alex. How can I ever thank you enough?” She was crying now, thinking of the life growing inside of her.

“He’s my Dad…there’s no need to thank me.” Alex smiled at Max, and then headed straight for the room where he knew Lily was resting.

“He just called you Dad?” Liz whispered quietly. She looked up into Max’s eyes and saw the tears.

“I know.” Max held on to Liz for a moment longer, then ran to his parents and embraced them both. Isabel joined the embrace seconds later. Then Liz. Then Kyle. And finally Michael. They were together and for the moment they were safe.

~~~~~~~

“What do you mean you released them?” Agent Cage had been screaming since the moment he’d entered the building.

Pete was quickly getting a headache but this was something he’d been prepared for. The paramedics had already bandaged his arm and put it into a sling. They had tried to persuade him to go to the hospital, but he had been insistent that his work was not done. Watching them roll John out on a gurney had been agonizing. He had shot a friend. John had been fanatical and crazy at times…but once upon a time…a friend. “Yes, I let them go. We had no right to keep them here. It was against the law.” Pete stood up from where he had been seated. “I don’t know what your agenda was, but it’s against the law to hold innocent people without their consent. You may have convinced Agent Sullivan to go along with you, but I didn’t join the FBI to break the law. So, whatever it is that you were up to, it’s over! If this doesn’t end right here, right now…I’ll go public with everything you’ve been up to here.” Pete looked at the astonished expression on Agent Cage’s face while he spouted off his demands. “I’m sure Washington would love to know what’s been going on here and if I were to go public…I’m thinking they would have a lot to answer for that they really don’t want getting out.”

“You’re bluffing.” Agent Cage said through gritted teeth.

“You think so? Try me.” Pete held his stance. He’d been intimidated long enough. One way or another it was ending tonight. “I want this case closed and I want proof that it’s been closed. Once I know you’ve let go of this sick, pointless obsession I’ll hand in my resignation. I’ll finally be out of your way, but not until I know for sure that you’re through disgracing the badge I once thought was an honor to wear. You killed Agent Sullivan as sure as if you’d held the gun yourself. He was sick and twisted and found joy in torturing innocent people! I know you did that to him and I intend to put all of this in my final report. You might as well start packing because by the time I’m through telling everyone possible what you’ve done…you’ll be lucky if you can find a job anywhere.”

Agent Cage stood before Pete, furious with rage. “I don’t know who the hell you think you are but…”

“I’m the man that just ended your career.” Pete had said all that needed to be said. He turned and walked away, never looking back.

~~~~~~~

Liz looked out the window of the small diner and watched the others laughing. It was a beautiful sight to see…everyone safe, happy, and together. She was lost in her thoughts when Michael approached the small booth she was sitting in.

“Earth to Liz.”

“Hey…sorry. Just daydreaming. Is Maria ok?” Liz asked as Michael sat down across from her.

“Yeah, she’s fine. She was a little pissed when I told her the truth about everything going on, but nothing she won’t get over. I think she’s only forgiving me because she’s happy we’re all coming home. She says the kids are fine, but Mikey’s being his usual pain in the ass self.” Michael laughed with Liz knowing Mikey was probably putting Maria through the ringer. Michael couldn’t help but think of how good it was to laugh again. It had been a while.

“Too long.” Liz agreed with him.

“Get out of my head, Liz.” Michael said, playfully throwing a sugar packet at her.

“Is this a private party or may I join you?” Max spoke sweetly while leaning down to kiss his wife’s cheek.

“Depends? My husband might see you, then I’d be in real trouble…are you worth it?”

Max answered by pulling her to her feet and kissing her passionately. “You tell me?” He questioned after finally letting go.

“Oh yeah…you’re worth it.” Liz pulled him closer for another kiss. For the first time in days she felt free.

After they’d left Albuquerque she’d told Max about the pregnancy, releasing the weight she’d been carrying alone. He wasn’t surprised…to him it made her actions understandable. He’d been mildly annoyed that she hadn’t told him any sooner, but considering the circumstances, he understood. He was thrilled to be having another baby, even if he was a Grandpa.

Max and Isabel’s parents had decided to go with them back to Seattle. After what the FBI had put them through they couldn’t bear the thought of going home again. Isabel was in heaven finally having her parents back. She and her mother talked for hours on end about everything, but unfortunately not about Kyle.

Kyle was happy to be safe again, but miserable that Isabel seemed to no longer need him. He felt like he’d served his purpose, which broke his heart after fifteen years of waiting for Isabel to finally wake up. Max and Michael tried to convince him to tell Isabel how he felt but he had refused to do so. He was quiet for most of the trip home.

Lily and the babies were doing fine, although the road trip was hell on them all. Alex doted on his newborns every chance he got and was an amazing new father. It hadn’t taken him and Lily long to decide where they belonged. They’d both contacted their parents and said good-bye regretfully, but they had a new life waiting for them and together they embraced it with open arms.

Alex was constantly irritating Michael and Kyle with questions about their powers and wondering exactly what he might be capable of, while Max and Liz sat back and watched the world around them. It was a long trip; one they all swore they would never do again, but somewhere along the way they all found each other again and they seemed to find peace.

~~~~~~~

Not long after arriving home, Pete contacted Max regarding the FBI’s current plans. He had indeed notified Washington of the wrong doings of Agent Cage and Agent Sullivan, and now he was awaiting his formal hearing on Agent Sullivan’s death. Pete told Max they were safe, at least for the moment. No one knew of their whereabouts and to the best of his knowledge the base had been shutdown.

Max wanted to breath a sigh of relief, but the chaos at home had him weary. Mikey and Alex didn’t get along, so the house was a constant battleground. After the first week he’d finally restrained them from using their powers against one another. While Alex was an excellent father, finally having siblings brought out his inner child.

Lily was pleasant and had grown very close to Liz almost immediately. After everything they’d been through Liz had taken a leave of absence from work. There was just too much going on at home for her to concentrate on anything else. Besides, her rapidly growing pregnancy would’ve been difficult to hide and would’ve raised questions she preferred to avoid. The women spent most of their days together talking about Cory and Amberlee and making plans for Liz’s new arrival. Diane was thrilled about the new baby and Isabel loved being an aunt.

Michael was content working at his restaurant, but spent a lot of time hanging out with a very lonely Kyle. Isabel had moved in with her parents once they’d discreetly settled everything in Roswell and found a place just outside of Seattle. Kyle was alone and miserable.

Life seemed to be getting back to normal again, but Max was looking forward to the impending summer break from classes. He enjoyed teaching, but now that he had his family together again, it had been hard to return to work. Having his parents close again warmed his heart tremendously. They were going to be there for the birth of his fourth child, a miracle he thanked God for everyday.

Beth was talking more and more each day and couldn’t wait to be a big sister. She found the babies fascinating and was constantly offering to help Lily in any way she was allowed. Mikey, on the other hand complained excessively about the lack of room in their house as it was. He couldn’t believe his parents were actually bringing another one into the house.

Max’s only real concern was for the fate of Pete, an agent that had risked his life and career to keep Max’s family safe. Fortunately for Max, he didn’t have to wait or worry for very long. Pete showed up on his doorstep just five weeks after he’d been forced to leave him behind on the base.

~~~~~~~

Pete was nervous as he knocked gently on the door. It was over. He was free and the Evans family was finally safe. He’d burned every document he was able to find and had made enough noise in Washington to make the FBI back away from Max Evans permanently. He’d finally done what he’d set out to do, but now standing at Max Evans’ front door, his stomach was turning. The door finally opened to the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen.

“Can I help you?” Isabel asked curiously. It wasn’t often a stranger came knocking on their door.

Pete started to speak but it came out more of a stutter. “Max…Max Evans…I’m looking for Max Evans.” Embarrassed, he finally shut up.

Isabel had to stifle a giggle behind her hand. “And who might you be?”

Pete suddenly forgot his own name. “Me…I’m…well I’m…you see…”

“Fascinating…really, but if you don’t tell me your name I can’t tell you where my brother is.” Isabel smiled her most intoxicating smile knowing what it usually did to most men. The stranger was more than handsome. He appeared to be just over six feet with black hair and the bluest eyes she’d ever seen. Standing before her in tight jeans and an old t-shirt he looked positively stunning.

“Your brother? Max is your brother? That would make you Isabel, right?” He questioned.

Isabel normally felt threatened by strange people but for some reason…she trusted him. “So, you know my name…you know my brother’s name…but you don’t know who you are?” This time the giggle escaped before she could stop it.

Pete, you’re a total jackass. Pete! His name was Pete! “Pete! It’s Pete! Well, I mean I’m Pete.” He’d never felt like more of an idiot.

So, this was him? Isabel didn’t even notice when she began to cry. “I believe I owe you a thank you…you saved my family’s life.” Isabel didn’t wait for a response this time. Instead she stepped through the doorway and into Pete’s arms.

Wow! Was all Pete could think of at this particular moment in time. She was breathtaking and she was crying on his shoulder. “Isabel?” She continued to hold him and cry. “Isabel, really. It’s ok…it was the right thing to do.”

Isabel let go and stepped back slowly. “Not many people ever do the right thing. You’ll never know how grateful I am to you. Please come in…I’m sorry for making you stand outside.” She stepped aside to let him enter.

Pete walked into the house. It wasn’t very large considering the size of his family, but it seemed welcoming. Almost immediately Max came into the room screaming to everyone in the house.

“Dinner’s ready!” Max looked towards the front door and saw him. For a minute he stood in shock, but it didn’t last. He closed the distance between them quickly and grabbed his hand. “Pete! I can’t believe you’re here. How are you? I see you’ve met Isabel. Everyone else is around…we’re having a barbeque. You have impeccable timing.”

Pete felt awkward. “I don’t want to intrude.” Suddenly he felt very out of place.

“You couldn’t even if you tried…you’re like family now. Please come in…I don’t think you’ve really met everyone formally.” Max gestured for him to go through the kitchen and out the back door.

Pete saw everyone laughing and children playing games…it was almost too much for him. He’d felt a lot of guilt over taking another agent’s life, but looking around at the family before him, his conscience was finally at peace. He was sure he’d never completely forgive himself, but he had done the right thing.

Max couldn’t have been more pleased. His entire family was together again and having Pete here felt right. “Hey everyone! I’d like you to meet Pete…I think you all know who he is.” Max stepped aside now as everyone hurried closer to the newest member of their family.

Kyle held out his hand to shake Pete’s first. “We owe you our lives, man. There really aren’t words for that.” He pulled Pete from a handshake into a hug. Kyle wasn’t usually so emotional, but this stranger had saved them all.

Michael came next. “It’s great to see you…we’ve been waiting for you.” He put his arm around Maria as she approached him. Eli came running up in between them. “This is my wife, Maria, and my little girl Eli.”

Pete noticed the young girl was practically her mother’s twin. “It’s nice to meet you both.”

“Well, well…aren’t you just a tasty little morsel.” Maria eyed him from top to bottom, obviously approving of what she saw. “Too bad you couldn’t have come along before Spaceboy over here.” Maria winked at Pete before stepping away.

“You would’ve scared the pants off of him, Maria.” Liz said, walking up to see Pete again. “Agent Acquaviva…it’s nice to see you again.”

Pete shifted uncomfortably. “It’s just Pete now…no more agent.”

Liz felt sorry for him. She was aware that it was because of them that his career was over. “I’m so sorry, Pete. We never meant…” She trailed off, too guilty to finish her sentence.

“Don’t apologize…I’d do it all over again if I had to.” Pete smiled shyly at Liz. He’d heard the stories and knew Liz Parker was the reason the FBI had ever known anything about Max Evans. He’d still been quite young, but Max Evans had risked his life just to save hers…now standing in front of her he felt slightly intimidated. She must be an amazing person for Max to have risked everything for.

Liz was honored by his thoughts but chose not to say anything. She didn’t think he knew about her ability in detail and she didn’t want to make him feel any more uncomfortable.

Diane walked straight to him and didn’t pause for a moment before wrapping her arms around him. “I knew I could trust you…you proved me right. Thank you…for everything.” No one else really knew Pete had settled their estate in Roswell. It had been their secret. Pete had been kind enough to handle everything despite the emotional situation he’d been in.

Phillip had wanted to come directly to the man standing there, but he couldn’t. This man had kept his wife safe; a job he felt should’ve been his, while the other agent had tortured him. He wouldn’t allow himself to think back to what the FBI had done to him. The excruciating torture was still very vivid in his mind and he knew if it weren’t for Pete it could surely have been Diane. For the time being…he stayed away.

Max smiled proudly, yet again. “So, you’ve met almost everyone…I’d like you to meet my kids and grandkids.” Max put his arm around Pete’s shoulder and led him over to the grill where his children were standing. “Pete, this is my son Mikey, and my daughter Beth. I believe you already know Alex and Lily, but these are my two precious grandchildren.” Max leaned forward to tickle Amberlee’s feet and smiled when she cooed aloud. “She likes me the best.” He whispered to Pete, but not quiet enough for no one to hear. “This is Amberlee and Cory.”

Pete stepped forward to admire the beautiful babies. It made him feel good to know he had made their passage into this world a little safer. “It’s really great to meet you all. They’re beautiful.” He remarked to Lily. Pete turned back towards the back door and saw Isabel Evans hovering away from the crowd. He wasn’t really sure what possessed him but he walked right up to her. “I’m Pete Acquaviva and it’s a pleasure to meet you.” He shook her hand gently and continued to stare into her eyes.

“Whoa! Sparks sure are flying over there.” Maria could practically feel the heat radiating off of the two people.

“Shut up, Maria.” Michael said, grabbing her arm.

“What?” He didn’t need to answer…she saw the reaction Kyle was having to the scene playing out before him. “Oh God, Kyle…I’m sorry.” She whispered, ashamed.

“Let’s eat!” Max yelled from behind the grill. “Liz, baby…could you set another plate for Pete?”

“Sure.” Liz liked Pete but she had also seen the exchange between him and Isabel. Kyle looked crushed. How Isabel could be so blind to something right in front of her was crazy. Liz did as Max asked and set another place for Pete to join them. She knew she owed him her life, but right now her loyalties were torn. She’d known Kyle almost her whole life and he’d been a friend to Liz through the worst of times. She knew his heart was fragile and at the moment splitting into pieces.

Kyle had been unsure about his decision before, but right now he was positive he was finally doing the right thing. He waited for everyone to be seated before trying to make a toast. “We’ve been through everything together…danger, death, birth…you name it, and we’ve mastered it. You all know how much I love you and I couldn’t ask for a better family,” he was starting to get choked up but he needed to get this out, “but I think it’s finally time that I moved on.” He watched the faces around him change rapidly, but didn’t give anyone a chance to respond. He had to do this. “I’m going to miss all of you, but I feel like I’ve been standing still for so long watching you all experience your dreams…now I think it’s time that I did that too.”

“But, Uncle Kyle…why can’t you do that here?” Mikey was extremely close to Kyle and had been since he was small. He just couldn’t understand how he could leave.

“Kyle, what are you talking about?” This was the first time Max had heard this. “You can’t leave.”

“Evans,” Kyle was fighting back the tears now, “I’ve thought of you like a brother for many years now…you saved my life and brought more into it than you’ll ever realize, but this is something I have to do.” He turned to Michael and Maria who was already crying. “Guerin…sometimes you can be one miserable bastard, but you’re my best friend. You’d better take good care of Maria because she needs you more than she’ll ever admit.” Finally, he turned to Liz. “Liz…saying good bye to you is almost impossible…I hope you know how much I love you and that I’ll be thinking about you everywhere I go. You’re my home, and as long as you’re here I know I have something to come back to.” Kyle stepped away from the picnic table, sorry he had ruined dinner. He’d hoped to put it off until later but after watching Isabel with Pete he couldn’t bear another moment. He stopped to kiss Maria, Eli, Liz, and Beth, and then he went into the house.

Isabel stood there, stunned and silent for a moment, but ran after Kyle before he could flee without saying good-bye. “Kyle? You can’t do this.”

Kyle didn’t want to face Isabel but he knew he had no choice. This was going to be his most difficult good-bye. “Iz…I have to go. There’s nothing here for me anymore.”

“There’s us, your family…we’re here.”

“Isabel…I’ve waited fifteen years for you to look at me the way you just looked at Pete…I can’t wait any longer. I’ve loved you so much for so long I can’t think straight anymore.” Kyle walked over to face her directly. He took both of her hands and held them tightly. “I’ve wished for so long that one day you would finally see me, but you don’t. You never see what’s right in front of you. I’ve let you rip my heart to shreds for too many years and if I stay this can only end badly for me. I love you, Isabel Evans, and I probably will for the rest of my life, but I deserve a life too. One where someone loves me the way I love her. So…yes I have to go. Just know that wherever I go and no matter what I do you’ll be in my heart. Good bye…Iz.” Kyle finally pulled the woman he’d loved for almost half of his life into his arms and kissed her like he’d wanted to for years. After a few moments he broke the kiss and walked away.

Isabel just stood there, crying. Watching him drive away. He was gone. Kyle was gone.


TBC

I just wanted to say thank you to my sister krystalstorm24 for getting me through this chapter. I may be the Queen of cliffhangers but writing an ending is not my strong suit I hope you enjoy...only one more part to go!**The music by the way is from Sha Na Na!

CHAPTER 15C


Isabel sat on the swing rocking Cory, but her mind kept drifting off to a different time. A time she couldn’t seem to forget now that Kyle was gone.

“Max, you’re exhausted…why don’t you let me get Mikey to sleep? You’re about to drop on your feet and I know you and Liz have barely slept in days.”

“You don’t have to, Isabel…I’ll take him.”

“Really, Max…I don’t mind.”

“Go ahead, Evans…I’ll keep Isabel company. We’ll be fine. Go get some sleep…you look like shit.”

“Thanks, Kyle. Are you sure, Isabel?”

“Yes, Max, now go.”

“Well, I guess it’s just the three of us. How do you suppose we get him to sleep?” Kyle scratched his head nervously.

“He likes to be sung to…but I normally don’t sing in front of people.”

“Yeah, but this is me. I’ll tell you what, we’ll both sing that way we both look like jackasses.”

“Kyle, sometimes I wonder about you.” Isabel smiled into his beautiful brown eyes. Somehow she always found peace with Kyle. A sense of security she rarely felt these days. “So, what are we singing?”

“Did you ever see ‘Three Men and a Baby’?”

“Of course.”

“Ok then…you know what we’re singing…after all it worked for them.” Kyle smiled as he took an extremely cranky Mikey from Isabel’s arms. “You ready? Let me warn you…I don’t know all the words and I’m pretty much tone deaf.” His smile was so easy and so loving.

“Ok…hit it.”

Goodnight Sweetheart well it’s time to go
Goodnight Sweetheart well it’s time to go
I hate to leave you but I really must say
Oh, good night sweetheart, goodnight
Well, it’s three o clock in the morning
Baby I just can’t treat you right
Oh I hate to leave you Baby
I don’t mean maybe
Because I love you so

Isabel let out a bellowing laugh. He was so adorable. Sitting here, singing oldies to a baby in the middle of the night. Sometimes he seemed so mature and others like now he had a childlike innocence she’d lost so many years before. “That was really…good.” She laughed at the embarrassed look on his face.

“Thank you, Ms. Evans. Now that I’ve lost my last shred of dignity I think I’ll lay this little one down. Just so you know…it worked, he’s sound asleep.”

“Purely a survival instinct.” Isabel had retorted back.

“Watch it, Izzy…I know some of your more embarrassing moments.” He winked as he walked in through the back door of their tiny duplex. Isabel only had to wait a few moments before he returned outside. “Ha ha…he’s asleep. Mission accomplished.” Kyle sat back down on the swing and looked up at the stars.

“Thank you for staying up with me, Kyle…I know you’re aware that I haven’t been sleeping. So, thank you.” Kyle smiled at her in a way she’d only seen once before. Alex had smiled at her like that. As if he could so easily break down her walls and see what was truly inside.

Kyle reached over and took her hand in his. “Anytime, Isabel. I’ll always be here.”

Isabel wasn’t sure how long she’d been sitting there crying. The memory was so vivid now. Why couldn’t she have seen so many years before? Why had she been so blind to what was right in front of her? She continued to rock Cory gently, singing their song to him. Oh how she wanted Kyle back. There were so many things she would’ve done differently if she’d known, but now he was gone and she didn’t know if he would ever come back. “Cory, what have I done?” Isabel just continued to rock back and forth.

~~~~~~~

Maria thought about knocking but Eli was already pulling on her arm and she was quickly losing patience. “Go on, honey…open the door.” She gestured for Eli to turn the knob. She had her own key but didn’t feel like digging it out at the present time. As she walked through the door she saw Mikey trotting down the stairs.

“Hey, Aunt Maria! Ever hear of knocking?” Mikey lived to give Maria a hard time.

“Hey, Mikey…ever hear the phrase kiss my…”

“Ok! That will be quite enough with the language lessons for today.” Liz finished for her as she entered the living room. “Mikey, why don’t you go take Cory up to Lily for a nap?”

“But Mom, Isabel’s holding him and…”

“And I said go get him.” Liz stated firmly.

“Fine, Mom.” Mikey stomped off through the kitchen towards the back door.

“All right, Chica…what’s the big emergency?” Maria folded her arms across her chest. She’d raced over here thinking something was wrong with Liz or the baby, but both appeared to be just fine. “I hauled ass all the way over here in a panic and you look fine.”

“I am fine, Maria. You always jump to your own conclusions.” Maria was such a drama queen…Liz was used to this by now.

“You said it was important…what’s important?” Maria plopped down on the closest sofa, exhausted from the heat. “This had better be good cause it feels like it’s a hundred degrees outside and I had a million things to do today.”

Liz sat down gently on the opposite sofa, shifting her weight gently. “It is important…it’s Isabel.”

Maria sighed audibly. “Not again. Is that why you called me over here? Chica, you know there’s not a damn thing we can do. She’s just gonna have to snap out of it.” Maria felt sorry for Isabel, but it had been over a month now…Kyle was gone.

“That’s not very sensitive, Maria.” Liz said, shifting uncomfortably.

“Get out of my head, Liz.” God, she hated it when Liz did that. It always gave her goose bumps. “He’s gone…what’s left to say?”

“I don’t know…I just thought maybe…”

“Oh no! You’re not pawning the Ice Princess off on me. I don’t do too well at the emotional stuff, you know that. I think you should talk to her.”

“Me? Well, I just don’t think…”

“Liz? Babe? It’s been over two months…sooner or later you’re going to have to make amends with Isabel and maybe right now is the perfect time. Liz, no one was as close to Kyle as you were…maybe you’re exactly what she needs right now.”

Liz hated it when Maria made sense. It usually threw her world into total chaos. “Maria, I just don’t know where to begin.”

“How about I’m sorry and go from there.” This feud had been going on long enough…it needed to end and maybe this was the perfect opportunity.

“Yeah, for her to tell me to go to hell.” Liz replied sarcastically. She saw the look on Maria’s face, “I know, I know…get out of your head.”

Maria pointed towards the back door, “It’s as good a time as any. She needs someone, Liz, and maybe for now you are that somebody.”

Reluctantly, Liz stood up. “Wish me luck…I’m sure as hell gonna need it.” Liz didn’t wait for whatever smart ass remark Maria was about to toss her way. She walked slowly through the kitchen passing Mikey and Cory on the way. “How is she?” Liz knew she shouldn’t be asking Mikey, he was just a boy, but he seemed to sympathize a great deal with Isabel these days.

“Not so good,” he said shaking his head. “Mom, I’m really worried about her.”

“Me too, baby. Me too. Go ahead and take Cory upstairs…I need to talk to your Aunt Isabel.” Liz bent down to kiss Cory on the forehead and then pulled Mikey down for a kiss too. “I love you.”

“I love you too, Mom…good luck.” He watched her disappear out the back. “You’re gonna need it.” Mikey rocked Cory gently as he headed upstairs with him. Being an Uncle wasn’t so bad. He just wished Uncle Kyle would come back.

~~~~~~~

“Nothing’s biting today.” Michael said grumpily, pulling his line back out of the water. “Tell me again, Maxwell…how is this supposed to be fun?”

All the men couldn’t help but laugh…Michael was definitely not the outdoorsy type. When they’d all agreed on a Man’s only field day Michael had assumed it would be a bit more civilized. Fishing was something he didn’t do.

“Well, Michael…I know it doesn’t seem like much fun but it’s supposed to be relaxing. I used to take Max almost every weekend when he was still a boy...before he decided to have a life that is.” Phillip chuckled, remembering the day Max had announced that he was now a man of the world and had other things to do. He’d been ten.

Pete smiled at the easiness amongst the group of men. In the last month he’d finally learned what it meant to be part of a family. Once everything had settled down for good in Washington and the Director of the FBI signed a sworn affidavit that the Evans case was permanently closed, Pete had finally settled into a calm existence. None of them still felt safe enough to return to Roswell, but life in Seattle was thriving. Pete had never felt more at peace, which in a small way made him feel guilty. Everyone treated him like a member of the family, but no one ever mentioned the real reason why Kyle had left. He could tell they all missed him and mourned him as if he was gone forever and yet nothing. He’d figured it out pretty quickly after Isabel turned away from him in tears the night of their first date. It was obvious she was hurting and it didn’t take a genius to see why. “So, any news of Kyle?”

Max could feel the tension in the air. He remembered the pact they’d made never to tell Pete he’d been the real reason Kyle had left. It hadn’t been intentional on his part…after all; Isabel Evans was a beautiful woman. “He’s um…”

“Well, he’s…” Michael started.

“He’s living in New York temporarily…still trying to find himself right now.” Phillip had spoken to Kyle a few times on his father’s behalf. Jim had been worried sick since the day Kyle had left. Kyle had wanted to contact his father but decided in the end it was too dangerous from where he was. He’d sent his love through Phillip, but that had been that. He was gone. Phillip knew that Max and Michael wished every day that he would return, but with each passing day Phillip knew it was less likely. He was starting a new life…one that didn’t involve the alien chaos that had become his life.

~~~~~~~

Mikey handed Cory over gently to Lily’s waiting arms. “Thank you, Mikey. I really appreciate all of your help.” Lily smiled warmly at Mikey. She knew that he and Alex had their own issues but to her Mikey was the little brother she’d never had. Always offering to help and always there to just talk when she needed to talk. She was aware that she would always have Alex, but sometimes it helped to have someone else’s opinion. Mikey was still a kid, but wise beyond his years. “So, what’s going on downstairs? I saw Maria pull up.” She continued to talk as she changed both Cory and Amberlee to put them down for their naps.

“Everyone is just really worried about Isabel…I guess my mom called Maria hoping she could help.”

“It’s ok to miss him, Mikey. I can see how much it hurts you.” Lily put both of the infants into their cribs and sat down next to Mikey on Beth’s small toddler bed. “Have you talked to him?”

Mikey shook his head. He knew Kyle had called his mother but he’d yet to speak to him. “No…I think right now he needs it that way.” Mikey knew why Kyle had left even though everyone had tried to shield him from the truth. They all treated him like a child, except for Lily. She actually listened to him and talked to him, not down to him. “I just wish he’d come home.”

“Don’t give up just yet. I think he’ll come back and hopefully…it will be to stay.”

~~~~~~~

Liz could feel her stomach doing flips as she walked outside. She and Isabel had been cordial to each other but they were nothing like they were before. Liz had tried to apologize several times, but somehow always lost her nerve. Isabel was still sitting on the swing, rocking back and forth. “Isabel?”

She was aware of Liz’s presence but didn’t respond. She continued to rock back and forth singing to herself inside of her mind. So many memories of Kyle kept flooding through her, but it was too late…the memories were useless. Kyle was gone.

“Oh, c’mon, Isabel…I didn’t mean to get you wet.” Kyle had sat down his water hose and was approaching her carefully. “Are you really mad?” Just as he’d reached her she turned her own hose on him soaking him from head to toe.

“Now you’re gonna get it!” Kyle screamed as he grabbed her hose and finished saturating her already clingy shirt and white shorts.

“You wouldn’t dare.” She challenged as he brought the hose up again.

“Wouldn’t I?” They’d continued their water fight for another half hour, totally forgetting the van they were supposed to be washing.

Moments like that were all that filled her mind. Now he was gone and she knew what she was missing. He’d been right there the whole time, but he was right…she’d never seen him. She’d been so caught up in her own little world that she’d never seen him for who he really was. She would’ve never made it through the last fifteen years without him and the thought of spending her life without him was unbearable, but didn’t she deserve this? Hadn’t she used him and discarded him when she was through with him? No one knew about the one night they’d spent together, but now she remembered it more and more.

“I saw him!” Isabel cried into Kyle’s shoulder. “He’s already married and they’re about to have a baby.” The sobs rocked through her entire body. He’d promised to wait for her, but now only six months later Jesse was already remarried.

“Isabel, he was a fool. He never knew how good he had it. He didn’t treasure you the way someone else would’ve.”

“There was no one else. The only man that ever loved me died and I’ll never have that again.”

“You could if you’d open yourself up to it.”

“Open myself up to what?”

“To me.” He hadn’t hesitated, not that time. Kyle had taken me into his arms and kissed me so passionately I’d almost forgotten to breathe. That night we made love and held onto each other as if our lives depended on it. But the next morning, I’d told him it was a mistake. An act of convenience and loneliness.

“Why is it that now everything is so clear? My memories…my feelings. They were right there the whole time and I never took a moment to see them.” She wasn’t talking to Liz, but more aloud to herself. “I remember when Max first bought this swing after Mikey was born…Kyle and I would sit and swing with him for hours to get him to go to sleep. I remember Kyle singing to him.” She laughed despite herself. “He said one day it would be us…I always thought he meant us in general, but now…he was talking about us.”

Liz could feel her pain, literally. The images washed over her as they had Isabel and it made her heart ache even more. Liz hadn’t known they’d spent the night together. It was one secret he’d kept from her, probably out of respect for Isabel. “I know I’m the last person you want to talk to right now, but I’m here, Isabel. I’ve made so many wrong decisions…decisions that cost me dearly. One in particular that took my sister away from me.” Liz sat down on the swing beside Isabel before she continued what she had to say. “I don’t know if you’ll ever forgive me for how badly I acted towards you. I’m not going to make excuses for my behavior because there aren’t any. I acted so badly towards you when I knew you would’ve gladly laid down your own life for my son.”

Even through her tears Isabel choked out the words. “You know I would’ve.”

Liz could feel Isabel’s inner walls beginning to crumble but she was still afraid to find comfort in it yet. “As I said…I don’t know if you can ever forgive me, but I’m here and I know you’re hurting.”

Isabel’s sobs grew stronger until she was crying uncontrollably. “I was such an idiot! I made so many mistakes and I knew…I know that deep down I knew what I was doing, but I didn’t stop myself. What if I never get the chance to make this right? Liz, I love him so much!” She wrapped her arms around her sister in law and continued to cry. Her life was in pieces and it was her own fault. She’d done this.

“I know, Isabel, but falling apart won’t bring him back.” Liz pulled away slightly and wiped the tears away from Isabel’s eyes. “You know what mistakes you’ve made, but have you learned from them?”

“Does it matter? It’s too late. He’s never coming back.” Isabel felt so ashamed. Ashamed of the way she’d treated him and used him for fifteen years. If only I could have one more chance.

“Do you mean that?”

“Who cares if I mean it,” Isabel stood from the swing and began to walk around the small portion of the yard near the door. “He’s gone…how am I supposed to go on without him? He probably thinks I’m with Pete, so there’s no point in his ever coming back.”

“Are you willing to be patient?” Liz could see that Isabel was taken aback at the question. “Isabel? Are you willing to wait for him this time?”

Isabel smiled through her tears, “I think I’d wait forever.”

“Then if it’s meant to be…it will be. Just remember…patience.” Liz stood and walked over to Isabel, “I love you, Isabel and I can tell you this dream isn’t over yet. If you love him…find a way to prove it. For once, think of him and not yourself. I know how big your heart is…be prepared to put it on the line.”

Isabel reached out and took Liz’s hands into her own. “Thank you, Liz. Thank you.”

Liz smiled again hearing the glimmer of hope in Isabel’s voice, before turning to go into the house.

“I love you, Liz.”

Liz turned back to face Isabel one last time before going through the door. “I love you too.” When she saw Maria lying on the couch she was grinning like a Cheshire cat. “My work here is done…I need a nap.” With that, Liz was off to her own room for some peace and quiet.

~~~~~~~

“Maria!” Michael called out as he came through the door. While he enjoyed being one of the guys, a day of fishing was not his idea of a good time. Right now all he wanted was to tuck Eli into bed and spend some intimate time alone with his wife. “Maria? Are you home?”

“Yes,” she moaned pitifully from the couch. She’d had a long day, well a long month actually and it was finally catching up with her. “I’m here, but dying.”

Michael walked over to the couch to see Maria sprawled out like a sleeping cat. He had to smile at his wife’s less than graceful demeanor. “Hey, baby…you ok?” He sat down on the couch next to her feet and began to rub them one at a time. “You don’t look so hot.”

Maria grunted before trying to sit up. “Thank you, Michael…that’s just what every woman wants to hear.”

“You know what I mean…you look exhausted.” While he did notice how tired she appeared to be, her beauty never escaped his notice. She was still as beautiful now, years later, as she was the first time he’d kissed her. “Do you know I love you?”

Maria looked a little stunned at his comment. “Well, yes…where’s this coming from?”

Michael grinned as he continued to rub, obviously pleasing her. “I just want you to know that I love you. You and Eli are my whole world and nothing will ever mean to me what the two of you do.” Michael was getting choked up at his own words, when he hadn’t even intended to get emotional. Lately life had just been put into perspective for him. From watching Max bond with Alex, to Isabel mourning Kyle in his absence, and finally watching Liz grow every day with new life. He’d never thought he could feel this way, but looking at Maria he found an inner peace he’d never expected to find. He gently brushed his lips against hers, completely against his usual persona. “Promise me you’ll love me forever?”

Maria didn’t understand where this was coming from, but knowing Michael she knew he was serious. “I’ll love you until the end of the world, Spaceboy.” She put a hand on each cheek and stared into his eyes. “You’re my world too, Michael, and I’m not going anywhere.”

It was exactly what he needed to hear. He was enjoying the quiet moment with Maria, but was interrupted.

“Daddy? Will you read me a story?” Eli was standing in the living room, her hair still slightly damp and smelling of sweet shampoo.

Michael reached out his arms to her. “Come here, baby girl.”

Eli didn’t hesitate but gladly jumped into her father’s welcoming arms. “I’ve been waiting up for you. Will you read to me? Please?” She stared up at him and gave him her most genuine smile.

Michael’s heart melted on the spot. Not only because she was her mother’s twin and absolutely beautiful, but because she was his family. For the first time in his life he felt safe to enjoy his family and it was something he’d never take for granted again. “Of course, baby girl. You go on into your room…I’ll be right there.” He watched as she ran back down the hallway towards her room. “She’s getting so big, Maria…I’m just not ready for her to grow up yet. We’ve wasted so much time running and worrying…I feel like I’ve missed so much. Like I’ve been on cruise control just coasting by.” He cupped Maria’s chin in his hand. “I don’t want to miss another second.” He kissed her on the forehead and rose from the couch. “I’ll be back in a few…don’t forget where we were.” He winked at her with a sly smile and then he was gone.

Once he left the room Maria’s tears began to flow freely. She wasn’t sure what had brought this out in him tonight, but everything Michael had said struck a nerve deep inside. They were words she hadn’t even realized she’d been waiting to hear. She stood and tiptoed down the hall and listened as he read Eli a bedtime story. Her family was finally safe.

~~~~~~~

“Good night, Mikey. I love you, son.” Max smiled and closed his son’s door as he passed by, but he heard Mikey call back just before the door closed.

“I love you too, Dad.” Mikey spoke in a soft sleepy voice.

Max passed Alex and Lily’s room and wasn’t surprised to see them both asleep, each holding a sleeping infant. He moved through the room silently and took Cory from Alex’s arms first, startling him awake in the process. “Shh. I’m just going to lie him down.”

Alex was completely beat and barely coherent enough to argue. “Thanks, Dad…I love you.”

Before Max could reply Alex was softly snoring again. He went around to the other side to retrieve Amberlee from Lily’s arms and wasn’t surprised when she too stirred momentarily. “I’m just going to put her to bed. Good night, Lily.”

Lily smiled an easy smile and drifted back off immediately.

Once the babies were sleeping soundly in their cribs Max went to tuck in Beth. She was already asleep, but he pulled the covers over her tiny body and kissed her gently on the cheek, causing her to smile in her sleep. After about twenty minutes he was finally climbing into his own bed, exhausted.

“You ok?” Liz whispered, feeling the minor tension he was giving off.

“I’m fine…just another long day.” He said as he snuggled closer to her, placing a single hand on her swollen abdomen.

Liz could tell something was bothering him, but he’d learned to block out certain emotions so that Liz could no longer read him like a book. “What’s wrong, Max? Don’t bother saying nothing because I can tell when you’re tense.”

Max rolled over, putting his head in her lap. “Just thinking…I’m still really worried about Isabel. Our lives seem dangerously close to perfection and yet she’s falling apart more and more each day.” Max hated seeing the condition Isabel had been in for weeks. He knew she was on the verge of losing her job, but nothing seemed to matter anymore. A fact that made him worry that much more.

“What if I told you I think everything will be fine?”

Max chuckled quietly. “I’d say you were one hell of an optimist.”

“I talked to Isabel today, Max…and I think she’s going to be fine.”

Max sat up and stared at his wife. “What do you mean talked? As in a civil conversation about something other than the weather?” He remarked sarcastically. Max was more than aware that a canyon stood between his wife and his sister and had for a few months now.

“I mean we talked. Mostly about Kyle, but not before I was finally able to apologize. She forgave me, Max. Just like that…she forgave me.” Liz was still so moved at how easily Isabel had forgiven her and told her she loved her.

“That’s great, Liz. I’m glad the two of you made amends, but how does that solve the heartache she’s going through? It’s not getting any better.” He laid his head back down in her lap, his scowl still obvious. He hadn’t seen Isabel this unhappy in years and it worried him deeply that she wasn’t breaking out of it.

Liz remembered back to their conversation and she remembered the hope she’d heard in Isabel’s voice today. It had been real. “Max, trust me…she’s going to be fine and everything will work out the way it’s supposed to.”

Max sighed, “I wish I had your optimism.”

“Don’t you trust me?” She asked coyly.

“Of course I do, but this is one situation even you can’t fix, Liz. Kyle’s gone and it’s too late.” Max said defeated.

“It’s never too late, Max…you’ll see.”

“Liz, I’m sure you mean well, but I hope you’re not getting her hopes up about Kyle.” Max knew Liz loved her ideal happy endings, but this was not one of them. “She needs to move on and let go.”

“No, Max…she doesn’t. Kyle has to come home sooner or later. After all, we’re his family.”

“I want you to be right, Liz…I do, but I really don’t think there will be a happy ending there.”

“Max…you seem to be giving up much too easily. Just have a little faith.” She brushed his hair away from his face gently, “we deserve this happy ending, Max…we’ve earned it. You’ll see…life is finally going to be perfect.”

As Max dosed off that night he dreamed about his family. He dreamed of wonderful carefree days. He dreamed of watching his grandchildren grow. He dreamed of his two sons and his beautiful daughter with yet another one on the way. And finally he dreamed of a world where he was free.


TBC

Well everyone...this is it I just want to thank everyone for their feedback over the last few months. I know there have been turbulent times but I've really enjoyed writing this fic. I'd like to thank babylisou not only for her kindness in letting me take it over but also for her amazing imagination! I hope you've all enjoyed this fic and I really hope you're happy with the conclusion. So...here it goes!
:smilecolros:

EPILOGUE


“Are you sure Mom doesn’t know?” Mikey questioned from the back seat.

Max was starting to regret telling him about his plan because he’d done nothing but harass him every since. “I’m positive. How could she?”

“Oh, I don’t know…maybe by reading your mind?” It made sense to him. His mother was forever reading things in his mind that he didn’t want her to know.

“Nope, she can’t read me like that anymore.” Then Max realized the flaw in his plan. “Great! She can read you!” Dammit! Why didn’t I think of that! “Mikey, you’re gonna have to try not to think about this at all, got it? If you have to go to a friend’s house…anything. Just please don’t go near your mother before tonight.” How can I be so smart and yet so stupid some times!

“Don’t worry, Dad,” Mikey laughed while patting Max on the back, “you’ve got enough gray hairs…you really need to chill.”

“I do not have gray hairs,” Max peeked in the rearview mirrors. “Do I?”

Alex and Mikey both laughed now. Sometimes their dad could be so gullible, especially when it came to cracks about him getting old. “No, Dad…really…you can hardly see them.” Alex tried to be reassuring, but could barely hold his laughter, which gave him away.

“Ha ha, you two! One of these days it will be you and then it won’t be so funny.” Max was happy to see the two boys finally bonding as brothers, but their bad habits had rubbed off on each other too. As it turned out, they were both quite the comedians.

“How do you know the baby is gonna come by tomorrow?” Alex inquired. The situation was still new to him and he learned something different every day.

“Well, Liz has had a back ache for two days, which has always been a good indication, but other than that…I just know. I think this baby is as eager to meet all of us as we are to have her here.” He winked over the seat at both of his sons.

“Yeah, I’m real eager…no more sleeping through the night for months…great.”

Max was about to turn around and pop Mikey on the head when he witnessed Alex do it for him. “Hey, that’s your baby sister you’re talking about!”

Mikey rubbed his head and shot Alex the finger when he thought their father wasn’t watching. “I know, Dad. I didn’t mean anything by it.” As long as the little rodent doesn’t take my room, he thought.

Max smiled to himself, wondering what the newest addition to their family would be like. Lily was just like Liz, caring and intelligent, and very nurturing. Beth was extremely inquisitive and never seemed to stop questioning the world around her. Alex had a serious side and was often very quiet and somewhat brooding like Max. Then again he had a playful side too…one his brother brought out often. Mikey was mischievous and forever in trouble, much like his Uncle Michael. The babies were in their own category together. They were only 3 months old, but their personalities were already starting to show. Max was amazed at least once a day with the extraordinary powers they exhibited. No one had expected them to get their gifts at such a young age, so it was constantly taking them all by surprise. Amberlee was obviously the most dominant of the two, always taking charge when she wanted something. The first time she had dreamwalked Lily wanting a bottle, Lily hadn’t been able to go back to sleep for three days. So far the funniest of moments was Amberlee’s tendency to change the color of her clothes. Everyone else could find the humor and amazement in it, but Lily always insisted that Alex change the colors back. There was never a dull moment!

“Dad? Dad! Are you even listening?” Mikey was poking him pretty hard, but it had taken Max a minute to notice.

“What?” Max was confused. He hadn’t been paying any attention to the boys’ conversation.

“We’re home.” Alex said, simply.

“Oh! Right! I’m gonna go check on your mother really quick, then I’ll be leaving.” Max unbuckled and stepped out of the car. This had to be perfect. Max wanted Liz to have one perfect day and this was the only way he knew Liz would be truly happy. “Remember what I said…stay away from your mother and whatever you do don’t tell anyone else.”
Max hurried into the house and up the stairs running into his mother in the hall.

“Max, I’m so glad you’re back. She’s refusing to rest and I know she’s still having back pains.” Diane had been concerned about Liz for the past few days. She didn’t really know that much about an alien birth. Lily’s had been under such extreme circumstances she hadn’t bothered to take notes. “What if something goes wrong?”

“Mom, everything is going to be fine. I’m going to check on Liz, but then I have to run out for a little while. I have something I need to take care of.”

“Today! You have to do it today? Max…what about Liz?”

“She’ll be fine. Maria’s gonna be here any second and Michael, Isabel, Alex, and Mikey will be here for back up…she’s in good hands.” Max hugged his own mother reassuringly but he could tell she was uncomfortable with the details surrounding Liz’s labor and delivery. She’d made it a point to voice her objections, but so far had not been heard. She just didn’t know Maria very well, so she was nervous about her abilities.

“Are you sure Maria knows what she’s doing?” Diane questioned one last time.

“Yes, Mom, and the two of them are very excited. Maria’s always wanted to be a midwife.”

“But she’s so flaky…”

“She’s a rock. A sturdy, solid rock and she’d never let anything happen to Liz. Now, if you’ll excuse me I’d like to check on my wife.” Max kissed her forehead, then retreated into his bedroom. Liz looked breathtaking. Pregnancy didn’t agree with every woman, but Liz always looked radiant. “Hello, beautiful.” He announced as he entered the room.

“I am so glad you’re home! Your mother is driving me nuts!” Liz exclaimed throwing both hands in the air. “I’m not breakable for heaven’s sake!”

“I know, honey, but she’s just nervous. Give her a chance, ok? For me?” He whispered while pulling her in for a kiss. As his mouth moved over hers he continued to whisper. “She’s just…excited…and wants…you to be safe.” Finally, he managed to pull himself away regretfully. He could see the wanting in her eyes, but he had to be somewhere…soon. “I have something I really need to take care of…will you be all right?”

Liz sighed. She knew everyone had her best interests at heart, but she didn’t like to be fussed over so much. “Fine…but you owe me for this, Max Evans, and I fully intend to collect.”

“Whatever you want,” he kissed her one last time, “it’s yours.” Max didn’t want to leave her. He could sense her contractions getting closer, even if she did refuse to admit it. “I’ll be back in an hour.” Max blew her a kiss and headed downstairs. “Alex?” He called out from the bottom of the stairs.

“Yeah, Dad?” Alex answered stepping out of the kitchen with a sandwich large enough for three people.

Max shook his head, “I don’t know where you put it all. Listen, I’m going now…keep Mikey away from Liz before he blows our secret…she can read him like a book. Make sure Maria knows where you are at all times in case she needs you…I’ll be back as quickly as I possibly can.”

“You got it.”

Max opened the front door to walk out and was greeted by Maria. “Howdy, people! Your favorite midwife has arrived!” Maria glided cheerfully through the door. “How’s my girl? She ok?” Maria asked Max, not letting on that she was slightly nervous.

Max pointed towards the stairs. “Just waiting for you. I gotta run, but I’ll be back soon.” Max kissed her cheek and ran to his car. He was running out of time.

~~~~~~~

Kyle drove the last few blocks to the Evans’ home in sheer panic. He knew this day would come and he knew he had to be here for Liz…but could he face Isabel? As he pulled into the driveway he was relieved that her car wasn’t here. He would have to face her, but the more time he had, the better. Kyle shut off the ignition and climbed out slowly. He’d never expected to miss them all so much. Even this house almost had him on the verge of tears. Fortunately, his sentimental thoughts were interrupted immediately by Mikey who practically tackled him in the driveway.

“Uncle Kyle!” Mikey wrapped his arms around Kyle for a bear hug. He’d missed him so much. “I can’t believe you’re really here!”

“What would your mother have done to me if I hadn’t showed up?” Kyle remarked sarcastically.

“Oh, I know she would’ve hunted you down like an animal.” Mikey answered, smiling widely.

Kyle returned the smile and pulled Mikey back into a fierce hug. It felt like he’d been gone forever. “So, tell me where everyone is…how are they?” He really wanted to ask about Isabel and Pete but he didn’t dare. He’d asked Liz about Isabel a few times after he’d left, but her response had stayed the same If you want to know…come home. He’d almost done exactly that several times, but he knew it was best if he stayed away. His stomach was in knots as he walked through the front door, but everything looked the same. God Valenti…what’d you expect? He set his bags down next to the couch and followed an extremely chatty Mikey out the back door and that’s when he saw her. Her hair was longer, and she was a little thinner, but she looked the same. Just as he was about to go back into the house she looked up. Their eyes met and time just stood still.

“Uncle Kyle, you ok?” Mikey asked once he realized he was being ignored.

Kyle was about to respond when Eli and Beth came running from the other side of the yard. “Uncle Kyle!” They screamed in unison.

He broke his gaze with Isabel to bend down and pick up the two screaming girls. “Wow! You two have really gotten big!” Kyle kissed them both gently on the cheek and hugged them so tight he thought they might burst.

“Uncle Kyle, are you back to stay?” Eli asked directly.

She’s definitely her mother’s daughter, straight and to the point. “I really don’t know, honey…we’ll see.” He glanced over at Isabel waiting eagerly, but he wasn’t ready to face her. He couldn’t…not yet. Instead he turned to Beth. “Hey cutie, where’s your mom?”

She pointed up. “She’s in her room. Grandma’s tryin’ to keep her calm, but she keeps getting mad.”

Kyle laughed, sure that Diane was indeed driving Liz crazy. He placed the two girls back on the ground and kissed them again. “I’ll be back in a few minutes, ok?”

The two girls just nodded their heads and were off running and playing again. Without looking back, Kyle walked back into the house. He went upstairs to find Liz, but came upon Lily instead.

“Kyle!” Lily was surprised to see him here. Although he was Liz’s closest friend she was aware of the feelings he had for Isabel. Kyle would most likely blush from ear to ear if he knew how much he’d been talked about…and missed. Lily didn’t hesitate to embrace him. He had risked his life to save hers and her unborn children, something she would never forget. “You look amazing! I hate to say it but being away has agreed with you. So…how long are you staying?”

He could tell by her expression that her age did not prove ignorance. She knew what was going on and the sympathy was obvious in her eyes. “I’m not sure yet…we’ll see.” Kyle smiled even though his heart was breaking all over again. He decided to change the subject rather than answer any more questions. “How are the babies? Getting big I’ll bet.”

“A handleful…that’s how they are. They’re a handful! Only three months old and already Amberlee is as stubborn as they come.” Lily thought back to this morning’s battle. She had put a beautiful pink summer dress on her only to find her a few moments later wearing purple. Alex had changed the color back twice before laughing and giving up.

“I take it their powers are coming in?” Kyle questioned already pretty sure of the answer.

Lily made a grunting noise and shook her head. She’d go on all day if he’d let her. “Are you looking for Liz?”

“Yeah,” he pointed to her closed door, “she in there?”

Lily grinned. “Yep, and I think she’ll be happy to see you. I know Diane has been making her crazy for the past few days and she’s already asked about you. Go on in.”

Kyle tapped gently on the door and waited for a response before entering. He immediately saw Liz with her feet propped up looking irritated, while Diane was fidgeting with things around her. Then he saw Maria, but didn’t have time to react before she tackled him, much like her daughter had.

“Oh my God, Kyle! I’ve missed you so much!” Maria had never been happier to see him in her life. They’d always given each other a hard time, but the truth was she loved him dearly. “How’s my big brother?” She winked.

“I’m fine.” Kyle saw the tears streaming down Liz’s face and suddenly he was in tears too. He was at her side in three steps with his arms wrapped around her and her swollen belly. “Liz.” He whispered holding on for dear life.

Liz was emotional these days and seeing Kyle had opened today’s episode of Water Works. “I can’t believe you’re here.” She whispered back not letting go for a second. Their embrace lasted until Maria cleared her throat. Slowly they pulled apart and smiled at one another. “I’ve missed you so much, Kyle.”

“Ditto.” He wiped the tears off her cheek and looked down at her rather large stomach. “Looks like I’m just in time…are you gonna pop?”

Liz shoved until she heard him hit the floor. “You’re such an ass, Kyle.”

“Hey! No fair…you’ve got a good thirty pounds on me right now.”

“Kyle!” Diane, Maria, and Liz shouted in unison.

“Just kidding!” He put both hands in the air to surrender. “I promise, no more chauvinistic jokes…cross my heart.” He made a crossing gesture and stuck out his lip the way he knew Maria usually did.

“Ok, you can stay…for now.” Maria said eyeing him. “So, have you seen her?”

“Maria!” Liz knew how hard it had been for him to come home and she didn’t want to push him too fast. “He’ll see her when he sees her.”

Kyle drew in a deep breath. “Too late.” He stood and walked over to the window that looked down over the backyard. She was still sitting there in the swing. “I didn’t see her car so I wasn’t expecting her.”

“It’s in the shop and she’s been staying here for the last few days to watch over me.” Liz said quietly.

“Why is she watching over you?” Kyle asked curiously.

“Because she’s in labor and has been for almost three days!” Maria said glaring at Liz. “I didn’t even know and I’m her midwife.”

Kyle was sure he had heard her wrong. “You’re her what?”

“Midwife.” She stated.

“Oh, Liz…you have gone off the deep end.”

“Watch it, Valenti or I swear I’m gonna hurt you.” Maria was waving her fists at him playfully.

Kyle laughed. He felt home again. “So…if you’re in labor when are you gonna pop her out so I can hold her?”

“It’s not quite that simple Kyle.” Liz said, shifting in pain. Before she knew it she was soaking wet. “My water just broke!” She screamed to Diane and Maria who were standing away from the bed. Unfortunately for Kyle, he wasn’t so lucky.

"Yuck!” He yelled and was immediately smacked in the back of the head. “Hey!”

Diane finally let go and laughed at the scene before her. “Kyle, why don’t you go clean up? I think you remember your way around.”

“Yeah…that might be a good idea. I’ll be back.” Kyle slowly left the room in his wet pants.

“Maria!” Liz screamed. “It hurts! Help me…where’s Max?”

“He’ll be here soon, sweetie.” Diane was already prepared with a cool cloth for her head. “Maria, we need to get her out of these wet clothes and into the chair.”

Maria nodded nervously and bent over to assist Liz. “Everything’s gonna be ok, Lizzie. I promise. Maria helped her over to the large chair Max and Michael had rigged just for the birth. She helped Liz undress quickly and get comfortable. “Let’s take a peek and see how things are going, shall we?” Maria smiled but was greeted with irritation and anguish on Liz’s face. After checking to see how far she was dilated, Maria stepped back. “Well, there’s some good news and there’s some bad news.”

“What?” Liz asked in between her unbearable contractions.

“The good news…I think this is gonna be a quick delivery.”

“And the bad?” Diane asked for Liz.

“Oh, somehow she managed to dilate to nine centimeters almost immediately which means no drugs.”

“What?” Liz asked horrified.

“Sorry, babe. I don’t know how you did it but you just managed to progress quicker than anyone I’ve ever read about.”

“Oh no! I need drugs, Maria…something…anything!”

“Sorry, Chica. Besides they’re not good for you or the baby and you never know how you might react to them. It’s better this way.”

“Then why don’t you switch places with me!” Liz screamed in agony.

“What’s going on in here?” A voice asked from the doorway.

Liz looked up and thought she was seeing things. “Mom?”

Nancy rushed to her daughter’s side with Max not far behind. “I’m here, baby. Oh, Liz.” Nancy leaned forward and brushed her lips against Liz’s forehead.

“But how? What if you put yourself in danger?”

“Don’t worry…we didn’t. We flew all over the place making it more difficult to be traced and that FBI agent of yours got us some fake IDs.” Nancy laughed pulling hers out.

“Dad? Is Dad here?” Liz could feel the contractions intensifying rapidly and felt like she was going to lose consciousness.

“Stay with me, baby.” Max whispered, cupping her chin in his palm. “I’m right here. Stay with me.” Max looked back at Maria. “How’s it going?”

“I got it covered, babe. Another couple of minutes and she’ll be here.”

“Already?” Max asked worried. This was too fast.

“Yep, but don’t worry…she’s fine. Just progressing really quickly.” She could see the concern in Max’s eyes. “Trust me.” She whispered.

Max nodded and looked back at his wife. “We’re almost there, Liz.”

~~~~~~~

Kyle stepped out of the restroom and right into Isabel. “I’m sorry.” He said trying to ease his way by.

“Kyle, wait.” Isabel held onto his arm preventing him from escaping. “Please.” She begged.

Kyle turned to face her, but couldn’t breathe. She was crying. His instincts took over before his head was able to. “Isabel? What’s wrong?” He had placed one hand on each of her cheeks without realizing it.

“I’ve been waiting…” Isabel trailed off finding the words hard to say. You have to do this, Isabel. She took in a deep breath and went for the only chance she knew she would ever have. “I’ve been waiting for you.” She had hoped to see happiness in his eyes, but all she saw was hurt. Understanding what he must think, she continued. “You were there most of my life and I took you for granted. I know I used you and I know I hurt you, but Kyle I’ve changed. You forced me to change when you left. You made me see the most important thing in my entire life and that’s you.” She brought a hand up to brush his cheek. “Kyle…I love you. I always have…I was just the last one to know.” She held her breath while she waited for his reply.

“What about Pete?”

“He’s a friend…just a friend.”

“Isabel…” His head told him to walk away, but his heart was screaming yes for the first time in ages. He knew it was a foolish move, but he went with his heart. “I love you, too!” He took her into his arms and began a passionate assault on her mouth. He’d waited years for this moment and he was taking it. He continued to kiss her for as long as time would allow, but it wasn’t as long as he’d hoped for. They were interrupted by a baby’s cry. “Oh my God.” Kyle whispered. “A baby.”

Isabel smiled through her tears. “The next one will be ours.” They smiled at each other. For the first time their future seemed clear.

Max came out into the hallway just as the troops all came trotting up the stairs. Everyone had heard the baby cry and dropped what they were doing. People seem to come from everywhere. Max smiled in amazement as he looked at the faces around him remembering back to the day he was born. He smiled as his sister, knowing her thoughts matched his own. He held out the tiny infant for everyone to see. “I’d like you all to meet my daughter…Melyssa. Melyssa…this is your family.” Everyone was crying and hugging and laughing. They were finally all together and they were safe. The hybrids that had started out as three lonely kids were now nineteen strong.



THE END