Roswell Fanatics

Chapter Fifty Nine

Max came around to the passenger side of the Jeep and helped Liz down onto the ground. He pressed a light kiss to her temple and brushed her hair back over her shoulder. Max flashed her a wry smile and tilted his head to the right. He turned around and headed for his destination. Max had only taken a few steps when he felt Liz’s hand pulling on his arm.

Max: Liz?

Liz: Are you sure about this, Max?

He spun around to face her at her question and noticed the worried look she wore.

Max: There aren’t a lot of options here.

Liz: But the last time we were here...

Max: Was when we thought Michael was dying.

Liz: Is that why we’re here? Am I dying?

Max: No.

Liz: You think I might be.

Max: No. I... I don’t know what to think, Liz.

Liz: It’s gotta be pretty bad if you’re coming back here. We’re not exactly welcome here.

Max: You mean I’m not welcome here.

Liz: Max...

He stepped in front of her then and cradled her face in his hands. Max waited for her to raise her eyes to his before he spoke, doing his best to make her understand.

Max: I don’t care. This isn’t about me, or any other aliens. This is about you, Liz. I... They’ll be happy to see you.

Liz: Be that as it may...

Max: I’m not leaving you alone here.

They lapsed into silence then, staring into each other’s eyes as they fought an unspoken battle of wills. Liz tried to communicate her worry for him, while Max tried his best to hide the fear that was consuming him. He focused on his concern for her health instead. So caught up in their gaze, they did not hear anyone approach. Max looked up as he felt a hand clamp down on his shoulder.

Eddie: Why are you here?

Max looked up in surprise and groaned internally when he saw who was standing next to him. He shrugged his shoulder, trying to get Eddie’s hand off of him. Eddie just tightened his grip. Max sighed and, grabbing one of Liz’s hands in his own, turned to face the young man.

Max: We need to see River Dog.

Eddie: He won’t see you.

Liz: Eddie, I...

Eddie smiled when Liz looked up at him. He dropped his hand from Max’s shoulder and extended it toward Liz for a handshake. Liz dropped her hand from Max’s and gave a pleased Eddie a quick hug. Max frowned but remained silent.

Eddie: You, he might talk with. But not him.

She grabbed one of his hands and pulled Eddie a short distance away from Max. Liz gave an unhappy Max a look, telling him to stay put.

Liz: I need him with me.

Eddie: Is this about the visitors?

Liz: Isn’t it always?

Eddie: We don’t know anything more. Come with me. Your friend stays in his car.

Max watched their agitated gestures and couldn’t carry out Liz’s silent request. He strode forward, reaching them just as Eddie was starting to pull Liz towards the woods. Max cupped a hand over one of Eddie’s shoulders. Liz rolled her eyes at the proprietary display. The two men locked eyes.

Max: I go where she goes.

Eddie: You don’t have a say in it.

Liz: Stop it!

Max: I’m a part of this, whether you like it or not.

Eddie: That doesn’t matter. We told you not to come back.

Liz: Please!

Max: And I respect that. But not when Liz is involved. (pauses) Please. He’s all we’ve got.

Liz: (painfully) Max!

Her sharp cry pierced the jealous conversation. Max dropped his hand from Eddie and hurried to get to Liz. She wilted against him. Max picked her up in his arms and looked at Eddie with a plaintive expression.

Eddie: Holy shit.

Liz groaned into Max’s neck. He rubbed gentle circles into her back and kissed the top of her head.

Max: Does it hurt?

Liz: Y-Yeah.

Eddie: (sighs) Follow me.

He brought them once again to the cave with the symbols on the wall. Eddie made sure they were somewhat comfortable before heading out of the cave.

Max: Wait! Where are you going?

Eddie: Wait here. He’ll be here soon.

Max sighed and nodded before returning his attention to Liz. He lowered himself to the ground, and Liz curled up into a smaller ball in his arms. Green lights continued to flicker over her body, but they were not as violent as they had been only a few minutes earlier. Max held her to him tightly, rocking her as he closed his eyes in silent prayer. There was a quiet shuffling noise at the cave door that Max did not hear. He was too busy murmuring quiet reassurances to a barely conscious Liz.

River Dog: You aren’t wanted here.

Max lifted his eyes to those of the old man. He could barely make out River Dog’s face around the tears that flooded his eyes. Max quickly wiped away the moisture before addressing him.

Max: I know. But Liz is sick.

Eddie: She’s covered in green sparks.

River Dog: Bring her to me. (turns to Eddie) You may leave now.

Eddie grimaced but headed out of the cave. Max was too caught up in Liz’s troubles to respond to the small victory. He slowly stood up, careful not to jostle her body any more than could be helped. Max approached River Dog, never cowering away from the old man’s stern expression.

River Dog: What have you done to her?

Max: I... I don’t know.

River Dog reached his hand out towards Liz’s body, but he hesitated as he noticed the green streaks lighting up her body.

River Dog: How is it she has your energy in her?

Max: I, umm... I healed her.

River Dog: When?

Max: Over a year ago. Last September.

River Dog: Is she conscious?

Max: I think she’s sleeping.

River Dog: You brought her back from the dead?

Max: Yeah. I guess so.

River Dog: What else?

Max: There isn’t any more.

River Dog: No. There has to be.

Max: How do you know?

River Dog grasped onto a small strand of his long, white hair. He closed his eyes, his brow furrowed in deep concentration. Max watched, feeling confusion, awe, and fear as he witnessed the hairs slowly turn black. River Dog’s eyes flew open as he dragged in deep breaths of air. Max stepped back quickly, wanting to keep Liz as far away from any potential danger as possible. His mind raced with ways out of the cave, out of the situation.

Max: I thought you were human!

River Dog hunched over, resting his arms heavily on his upper legs. He panted heavily and slowly raised a single arm. One finger was raised before his hand fell again. A few minutes later, River Dog was finally in enough control to stand up straight. He approached Max, his chin raised and fists clenched. His eyes narrowed as Max continued to back up.

River Dog: I will not harm you.

Max: I don’t believe you.

River Dog: I wanted only to show you how I know there is more going on.

Max: Because you’re not human?!

River Dog: I am. I was healed by the visitor long ago.

Max: Brought back from the dead?

River Dog: There are many stages of life and death. I was somewhere in between. This girl is lost in the middle, too, I think.

Max: What do you mean?

River Dog: You have seen the extent of my abilities. I was brought back from the dead by a full-blooded visitor over forty years ago. This small display has taken a great deal of energy...

Max: You never had the green energy, did you?

River Dog: No. I’m sorry.

Max: What do I do?

River Dog: Have you tried to restore her balance?

Max: I... No.

Max shook his head, wondering why he hadn’t thought of this earlier. He whispered apologies against her cheek. River Dog watched the display of affection in silence. A flicker of green on Liz’s body reminded the old man of the urgency of the situation.

River Dog: Where are the stones?

Max: They’re at home.

River Dog: Go. Get them. Bring back the stones and only those you trust.

Max: Will she be okay?

River Dog: I don’t have the answers you’re looking for.

Max: I... I’ll be back in an hour.

River Dog: Good. (pauses) Bring only the humans.

Max: What? Why?

River Dog: There will be too much alien energy. Her path is difficult. She must find her way back to her origins.

Max: I don’t understand.

River Dog: Go. I fear our time is short. Leave her here with me.

Max: What? No!

River Dog quickly came to stand eye-to-eye with Max. His dark eyes met Max’s worried ones.

River Dog: You can trust me.

Max: I don’t... It’s -

River Dog: Now! We don’t have much time.

Max: I... You won’t leave her?

River Dog: No.

River Dog laid a blanket down on the ground and Max gently lowered Liz onto it. She curled in on herself but didn’t awaken. Max pressed a kiss to her temple and stood up. He slowly backed out of the cave, making eye contact with River Dog as he reached the exit. The old man nodded his head and an understanding was reached. Max turned and ran for his car.


*Sorry for the distance between posts and any confusion that last week's useless display of insecurity may have ignited. I have every intention of finishing this, even if I'm the only one reading it. I just wanted to stress that this story isn't cut and dry and won't be an easy read... well, probably ever. lol But, thanks for all of your supportive feedback. It warmed my icy heart, lol.

-Jen*

Chapter Sixty

Maria and Alex had parked their cars in front of the Crashdown after a fruitless search for Liz and Max. Alex was leaning against the side of his car, watching as Maria fished around for something in the back seat of the Jetta.

Alex: Remind me again why we needed two cars for this?

Maria: Alex! It’s the principle!

Alex: I see...

Maria popped out of the car to address him. She leaned against the inside of the opened door.

Maria: (sighs) Michael Guerin can’t just go around telling people what to do and expect them to do what he says. How hypocritical is that? Max says something, and the first thing Michael does is the direct opposite. And now he’s pissed ‘cause I don’t wanna take his shit? Uh-uh. Nope. Not gonna happen.

Alex: Uh huh.

She slammed the car door shut and stepped up to Alex. Maria poked her finger into his chest while Alex hunched in on himself in an attempt to lessen the pain she was inflicting.

Maria: And when did you join his side?

Alex: What? I didn’t.

Maria: Men! God, you’re all just... Pigs! Filthy rotten animals! If he thinks he can just jam his tongue down the throat of whoever he wants, and not even apologize to me for it, and then expect me to come running when he calls... Nope. Nuh uh. No fucking way.

Alex: At the risk of losing my testicles, were you two even dating when that happened?

Maria threw her hands up in the air in exasperation. She rolled her eyes and crawled into the back seat of the car once again.

Maria: Does it matter? He’s got no respect for me. For anyone. And then he expects us to, like, look up to him or whatever? God! He’s so... Ahh! And -

Alex: Hey! Was that Max?

Maria: And for the love of God, would it kill him to -

Alex stuck his head into the car and lightly shook Maria’s shoulder.

Alex: Maria!

Maria: What?!

Alex: Get in my car. I think Max just drove by.

Maria: Was Liz with him?

Alex: I didn’t see her, but... that doesn’t mean she wasn’t there.

Maria: Maybe she’s napping in the back seat?

Alex: More like recovering.

Maria: Unless...

Alex: Unless?

Maria: Well, maybe she was in the front seat, but you just couldn’t see her.

Alex: What? I thought I was the only invisible resident of Roswell these days.

Maria: God, Alex, get over yourself. I meant she was probably giving him head.

Alex: Jesus, DeLuca! You... Ahh!

Maria: You’re too easy.

Alex: Let’s go.

Meanwhile...

A shiny red convertible slightly swerved on the deserted stretch of road.

Kyle: It’s my car, and I decide on the music. (turns dial)

Michael: Listen, Valenti, these are the rules, okay? Passenger controls the tunes. Get over it.

Kyle: (jabs preset button) How about the guy with his balls in tact controls the air waves?

Michael: Fuck you. (flips station)

Kyle: Listen, Guerin, these are my rules. Follow them, or get your fat alien ass out of my car. (turns dial back)

Michael: I’m not listening to this country shit all afternoon.

As they continued to argue, both slapped at the other’s hand in a battle for radio control.

Kyle: You are.

Michael: Am not.

Kyle: Are too.

Michael: Not.

Kyle: Too.

Michael: Not!

Kyle: Too!

Michael: NOT!

Isabel: Enough!

Isabel’s hand shot into the front seat and a brief flash of power ripped through the air. The radio sizzled as Kyle and Michael shook the static heat from their hands.

Kyle: What the fuck did you do that for?

Isabel: To shut you two the fuck up.

Kyle: Look what you did to my radio!

Isabel: (shrugs) Oops.

Michael: Aww, no more George Jones. Too bad.

Kyle jerked the wheel sharply to the right, skidding into the side of the road and kicking up a large cloud of dust. The passengers sputtered as they tried to get the dirt out of their eyes and mouths. Kyle put the car in park and turned to face Isabel and Tess in the back seat.

Kyle: Get out of my car.

Isabel: What? I don’t think so.

Tess: Come on, Kyle, it was a joke.

Kyle: Three aliens capable of using their voodoo to fix it, but my radio’s still smoking. So, fix it, or get the fuck out of my car!

Michael shoved his door open and hopped out. He pushed the front seat forward so the girls could get out of the car, as well. He nodded at Isabel after Tess had crawled out.

Michael: Fine. Fix it, Is.

Isabel: Fix it yourself.

Michael: You broke it!

Isabel: So?

Michael: So? So?!

Isabel: Yeah. So?

Michael: What the hell is wrong with you lately?

Isabel: Nothing you’d understand.

Kyle: What’s that supposed to mean?

Isabel lunged forward and pointed a long finger in Kyle’s face.

Isabel: Hello! Was I talking to you? If Michael doesn’t get it, how the fuck are you supposed to?

Kyle: Watch where you point that thing!

Tess: Can you all just shut up? I want to get home.

Kyle: (mutters) Of course, your highness.

Tess: Why would you call me that?

Kyle: Because you and Evans - Aw, fuck. You know why.

Michael: Please. Share with the class.

Kyle: Fuck this. Someone fix my damn radio, or you can all walk into town.

There was some grumbling among the aliens, but Tess finally reached into the front of the car and de-melted Kyle’s radio.

Kyle: Good. Let’s go.

Meanwhile...

Alex: He is swerving an awful lot.

Maria: Well, you have seen Liz eat popsicles, Alex.

Alex: What does that - Oh, gross.

Maria: Where is he going?

Alex: It looks like he’s headed to Valenti’s.

Maria: If he’s going there to be with that trampy ho...

Alex: Not two minutes ago you said Liz was in the car with him.

Maria: Yeah, well, maybe she’s not.

Alex: Then where the hell is she?

Maria: I guess we’ll have to follow him to find out.

Alex glanced at Maria, turned back to the road to gauge the distance between the two cars, then directed his attention to his right again.

Alex: Should I stay back? Be covert?

Maria: In this car?

Alex: What? It’s not like it’s bright red.

Maria: It’s Bing Cherry for your information.

Alex: Huh?

Maria: Jesus, Alex, the Jetta. It’s not red, it’s Bing Cherry.

Alex: That’s not even a real color.

Maria: It’s not just plain red.

Alex: Oh, of course not.

Maria: You know what your problem is, Alex?

Alex: Not really, but -

Maria: I’ll tell you. Your problem is that you’ve got no imagination. No creative trait lingering on the surface, you know? I mean, look at the way you dress. It’s, like, ‘Hi. My name is Alex. I’m trapped in 1992.’

Alex: This coming from someone who looks like she picked her clothes out of the lost and found.

Maria: What? WHAT?

Alex: Oh, look. We’re here.

Maria: One of these days, someone’s gonna pull on that damn chain of yours, and your pants are gonna fall down to your ankles. I hope it’s me, and I hope you’re wearing holey tighties that day.

Alex: Riight. Well, as I said, we’re here.

Alex pulled his car in next to the Jeep. Max, who had been headed to the front door, rushed over to them. He leaned on the door and forced his head in next to Maria.

Maria: Wow. This is a little too close for comfort.

Max: Where have you two been? Where’s Kyle? The Sheriff? I can’t find anyone. I’ve been looking all over town God damnit, we need to hurry!

Alex: You drove right past us in front of the Crashdown.

Max: What?

Maria: We’ve been following you for a few blocks.

Max: Oh. Shit. Do you know where Kyle is?

Alex: Last I saw, he was arguing with Michael.

Max: Fuck. Fucking shit.

Maria: What’s going on, Max?

Max: It’s Liz. She’s in trouble.

Alex: What’s going on now?

Max: I... I don’t know. I don’t have time to explain. We have to go. Now.

Maria: Should I leave them a note?

Max: Uh. Yeah. You do that. I’m gonna take off now.

Max ran over to his Jeep while Maria fished around in her bag for some paper and a pen. Alex jumped out of his car and reached Max as he was about to shift into drive.

Alex: Max! Wait! Where are we going?

Max: The cave.

Alex: At the reservation!?

Max: Yeah. Just... Hurry, okay?

Alex: You got it.

Chapter Sixty One

River Dog watched over Liz’s sleeping form, closely monitoring her breathing. She was feverish and shivering. He dared not touch her, as Liz’s body was once again surrounded in a green haze of electricity. River Dog sighed and got up from his perch at Liz’s side. He found a stick and began to draw the lines for the healing circle. She continued to whimper in her sleep, unintelligible phrases passing across her parched lips.

Liz crawled the short distance to her bathroom’s tub, using the side to help pull herself into a sitting position. She wiped at the sweat collecting on her brow and focused on reaching the nozzle for the cold water. A groan escaped her as she heaved her limp form over the tub’s side before she managed to turn the water on. She hung suspended for a moment, unsure if she was capable of pushing herself in or of falling back out. A sharp pain in her stomach prompted her to swing her weight into the bathtub. Liz landed on her side, her head knocking dully against the bottom of the basin.

The cold water splashed around her aching form. Liz lay there until the water reached her chin, and then she slowly lifted her foot to turn the dial back. The water slowed to a trickle and stopped. Liz let out a long sigh before sucking in a deep breath and plunging her head underwater. She screamed then, certain that no one could hear her distressed cries. She remained submerged until she could no longer hold her head under, only coming up when little white stars appeared before her closed eyes.

She managed to sit up and hugged her legs tightly to her chest, her head resting limply on her exposed knees. Liz started to shiver then, but she lacked the energy it would take to rectify the situation. Her teeth started to chatter and tears slipped out of her eyes, but still she remained in the cold water.

A hand reached into the water and pulled the plug, but Liz didn’t see it. The water gurgled as it flooded into the drain, but she didn’t hear it. Warm hands drew her up out of the tub and stripped her from her soaked clothing, but she didn’t feel it. She wasn’t aware of being gently rubbed dry or being dressed in warm cotton pajamas. Later, she would wonder how she’d ended up snuggled deeply in her bed, but at that moment, she was oblivious to the world around her.

When she finally woke, Liz was pressed tightly up against Max’s chest. She looked up at him and was surprised to see tears in his eyes. Liz instantly remembered why he was crying, and her own eyes welled up.

Max: Liz...

Liz: I... I’m so sorry, Max.

Max: I’m sorry for the way I reacted. I just -

Liz: I know. I should have told you sooner.

Max: (sighs) Yeah. You should have. (pauses) Why?

Liz: Oh, Max. I... You already had so much on your mind. I couldn’t... I couldn’t add to it. And... I know... if I told you... you wouldn’t have left me to take care of the skins.

Max: That’s not -

Liz: Max.

Max: (sighs) Okay. I might not have gone, but... Liz, you can’t keep making these decisions for me. This... I should have known this before going. I should have known this weeks ago.

Liz: No one else knows.

Max: Not even Maria?

Liz: She knows something’s going on, but... No. Not even Maria.

Max: God, Liz, you’ve been doing this on your own for over a month. You shouldn’t have had to feel like this. Not when I can help you.

Liz nodded and wiped at the tears trailing down Max’s cheeks. He returned the favor before gathering her against him and running his fingers through her hair.

Max: You know why I’m so upset, right?

Liz: Besides the obvious?

Max: Yeah...

Liz: I... No. I guess I don’t.

Max: Liz... I just... I hate it when you keep things from me. Things you think I can’t handle. You told me about Michael taking your journal, and what happened when Nasedo kidnaped you, but... You only tell me these things when your hand is forced. That’s why you kept this. I mean, kissing him was nothing in comparison.

Liz squirmed out of his embrace and sat up. Max reluctantly followed, and the two sat facing each other on Liz’s bed.

Liz: I know. But, Max... I wasn’t sure, you know? And...

Max: And...?

Liz: (sighs) And you think I should have told you anyhow.

Max: Exactly.

He jumped from the bed then, walking in an agitated manner at the foot of the bed. Liz watched him with concerned eyes.

Liz: No. See, I wasn’t handling it, either. And I didn’t just think you couldn’t deal with it, okay? I knew it.

Max: Semantics.

Liz: I know. And... I’m sorry, Max. So, so sorry, but... I did what I thought was right. I can’t change that.

He strode over to stand beside Liz at her bedside. Max gently cupped her face in his hands while he spoke.

Max: We need to learn to be more honest with each other, Liz. I mean, I was totally unprepared for what Nicholas said at the school.

Liz: I still don’t understand how he knew.

Max: I’m more worried about who else knows.

Liz: But... Max, the skins are all gone.

His hands dropped as Max ran a shaky hand through his hair. He slumped down onto the bed and roughly scrubbed his face with his hands. Liz turned to face him as he dropped to lay on his back, but Max’s eyes were closed.

Max: (sighs) Are they? And are they our only enemies? What if... What if Khivar knows, too? What if they send someone down after you? I can’t... I don’t... Tess killed Nicholas, but she doesn’t know how she did it... or even if she could do it again. And... I have to think that Khivar is even stronger than Nicholas.

There was silence for a moment, as Max worried internally over things gone unsaid and Liz idly traced the pattern of her bedspread.

Liz: (quietly) I guess that’s what you need the foursquare for.

Max’s eyes flew open at her whispered statement.

Max: You’re kidding me, right? You’re not trying to get me to be with Tess, are you?

Liz: Max, I...

He sat upright and tugged her chin up so that she was looking directly at him.

Max: Listen here, Liz Parker. There is nothing you can say or do to make be go to her. Ever. I... I don’t even think it’s physically possible.

Liz: What do you mean?

Max turned away, a faint blush spreading across his cheeks.

Max: Never mind.

Liz: What? Tell me.

Max: You’ll get mad.

Liz: No, I won’t. I promise.

He turned to face her again in exasperation. Liz wore a playful expression, but she hadn’t moved from the head of the bed.

Max: You don’t even know what you’re promising.

Liz scooted off the bed to stand before him. She grabbed onto his hands and excitedly hopped up and down.

Liz: So? C’mon, Max. Tell me. Pleeease? Pretty please? Tell me, tell me, tell me -

Max: (laughing) Alright! Okay! I give. I’ll tell you.


She grinned at him before climbing onto his lap. His arms wrapped around her as Liz snuggled into his body, resting her head in the crook of his neck.

Liz: Carry on.

Max: This is so embarrassing.

Liz: Please. You saw me in that polka dot bra. How much worse can it be?

His head snapped up at that.

Max: Hey! I thought that bra was sexy.

She looked up at him and gave him a no-nonsense glare.

Liz: You’re not getting out of this.

He sighed in defeat, squirming a little at the uncomfortable topic he was about to broach.

Max: Okay. Uh... Well, umm... You know how I like to watch Buffy, right?

Liz: Yeah...

Max: Well, uh... You know I love you? A-And think you’re... sexy as hell. Right?

Liz: Uh huh...

Max: See, I, uh... Well, sometimes, guys can’t really help it... and, uh... get, umm, excited by things. Not even consciously sometimes.

Liz: Okay. So, what, you got an erection watching Sesame Street?

Max: (chokes) No! That is... That’s gross, Liz.

Liz: (laughs) Okay, well, on with it.

Max: S-Sometimes, I... umm, well, watching that show -

Liz: Buffy, right?

Max: Yeah. Well, umm, sometimes, I would, uh...

Liz: Get a hard on.

Max: (blushes) Yeah.

She shifted to straddle his lap and copied one of his patented moves. She lovingly cupped his face, urging him to look up at her.

Liz: Max, that’s normal, okay? I mean, I don’t love to hear about you being attracted to other women, but it’s not like you’re ever going to meet her, so... Is that it?

Max: No. Shit. Look, I just... It doesn’t happen anymore.

Liz: I don’t... What?

Max: Even if I try... Which, I mean, I don’t...

She rolled her eyes and crossed her arms over her chest. His eyes momentarily glanced at her breasts, which looked larger than usual due to the way she was hugging her chest. He shook his head, as if to clear it, when he heard her clear her throat.

Liz: Just spit it out, Max!

Max: I haven’t gotten excited about another woman since...

Liz: Since we made love?

Max: Yeah.

Liz: Oh. Well... That’s.... Strangely pleasing.

Max: (wryly) Glad you think so.

She kissed him lightly before shoving him onto his back on the bed. She remained straddled over him, a triumphant smile on her face.

Liz: So... You wanna show me if it works?

He raised an eyebrow at that and she giggled.

Liz: Just, uh... for scientific purposes.

He pulled her down on top of him. Just before his lips touched hers, Liz heard his whispered words.

Max: Right. Scientific.



*Okay, so I just watched 'Wipeout', and I noticed that Liz appeared at the billboard at the end of the episode. In this story, that doesn't happen, because, well... 1. It makes no sense for Liz to just show up at the billboard, while everyone else reappeared in the spot that they had disappeared, and 2. I forgot about that part. Oops.

-Jen*

Chapter Sixty Two

Liz’s lips had barely touched Max’s before her tongue was thrusting into his closed mouth. He groaned at her ferocity and pulled her body against his. Max snuck a hand beneath her pajama top and firmly gripped her skin. As his hand moved toward her front, Max rolled so that they were laying on their sides. He pulled his hand out from under her shirt and hastily undid the four buttons.

Liz had to take her hands off of the t-shirt she’d been inching up Max’s chest to get her own top off. She shrugged her way out of the night shirt while Max pulled his t-shirt over his head. Her lips immediately returned to his. Her hands encircled his body, one possessively grabbing a cheek of his ass while the other ran an errant course over his warm, naked flesh. One of Max’s hands pressed against her lower back, pushing her thinly-covered center up against the hard lump in his jeans. His free hand squeezed a breast and pulled at her tightened nipple.

She threw her leg up over his thigh, pulling their lower bodies even closer. Max gripped her thigh as they started to gently thrust against each other. In frustration, he rolled Liz onto her back and settled between her parted legs. They arched into each other, trying desperately to ease the tightness building inside of them.

Max lifted his body from hers, grimacing as if in pain. He fumbled with his belt, the task made more difficult because he was only using one hand. He tore his lips away from Liz’s so he could at least see what he was trying to do.

Liz: Maaax...

Max: Just... I’ve almost got it.

Liz rolled her eyes and pushed a surprised Max onto his back. She smiled as she undid his buckle, her eyes flashing at him in triumph when she’d unsnapped his button and lowered the zipper. He laughed at the smug grin she was wearing, glad that she was feeling better. He sobered at that thought and trapped Liz’s hands against his waist. She tugged at them, wanting to pull his jeans off, but Max held tight. Liz looked up at him questioningly.

Max: Wait. Is this... Are you sure this is okay?

Liz: Of course it is.

Max: But...

Liz: Don’t you wanna make love?

Her hands were trapped, but her legs were not. Liz moved forward until she was straddling his hips. She rolled her hips, thrusting her pelvis against his cock.

Max: No! I mean... Ah, shit, Liz.

His grip loosened, and Liz shook her hands free. She backed herself up a bit before undoing the button on his boxer shorts. She reached inside the flap of his boxers and pulled his dick out. She held his cock tightly in her fist, but she did not make any movements. Max’s body pushed against her hot skin even while his mind protested.

Liz: You like that?

Max: Yeah, but... uh...

Liz slowly began to slide her hand against his erection, grinning as he lifted his hips to meet her hand when it returned to his body. She abruptly stopped her motions and gave his cock a squeeze.

Liz: I’m fine, Max. Okay? We’re gonna be okay.

Max: I can’t help but worry.

Liz: I know. And you know I love you for it, but...

Max: But...

She looked him directly in the eyes as she repositioned her body. Liz leaned forward and flicked her tongue against the already wet head of his cock.

Liz: But right now, I want to forget about all of this and just... lose myself in you.

Her lips parted slightly to give his dick a hot, open-mouthed kiss. Her lower lip pressed against the ridge there, while her tongue continued to lash at his salty skin. Max groaned and threw his head back as Liz began a light suction.

Max: And... uh... after I’ve... served my purpose?

Her words were obscured by the thick flesh pressed against her lips, but Max managed to make out her message.

Liz: Hmm... I’ll think of something.

He helped her to take off his jeans and boxers. Liz shimmied out of her pajama pants and kicked her underwear to the end of the bed before kissing her way up his body. Max tried his best to keep their lovemaking slow, but Liz was absolutely determined to have him in her body right away. When he whispered into her ear, she shocked him with her language.

Max: Liz... We have all night.

Liz: But my pussy is so wet for you, Max.

Max: I... We should be careful.

Liz: I don’t want careful. I don’t want slow. I want you to spread my legs and fuck me until I pass out from pleasure.

Max: Liz! I can’t -

Liz: And when I regain consciousness, I want you to fuck me again.

Max: N-No... uh...

Liz: Mmm... Max... I want your cock in me so bad!

Max groaned as he flipped their bodies over once again. He looked up at Liz, once again in awe of her beauty. Her head was thrown back against a pillow, her eyelashes gently resting on her cheeks. Liz’s lower lip was sucked inside her mouth, and it was obvious to Max that she was nibbling on it there. She whimpered at his delay and spread her thighs wider. Max chuckled at her impatience but hastened to do as Liz commanded. He grabbed his cock in his hand as he approached Liz’s body. He circled the head around in the wetness that surrounded her pussy before lowering himself enough to enter her body.

Liz: Mmm... Max... You feel so... good!

Max grimaced, forcing himself to ignore the sultry moans coming from deep in her throat and the slick warmth that was surrounding his aching dick. He rocked in and out of her until his cock was buried deep in her hot pussy. He was aware of more feeling than usual, and it took him a moment to realize why that was. Max stopped his movements and looked down at Liz’s shocked face.

Liz: Max! Don’t stop!

Max: Liz... We have to.

Liz: No. No, we don’t. I told you, I’m fine.

Max: I need to get a condom.

Liz: Max, we don’t need them.

Max: But...

Liz: Look, I can’t get pregnant from this. We know this.

He looked away from her then, a slight blush staining his cheeks.

Max: Right. I, uh...

Liz: You forgot.

Max: Yeah.

Liz grabbed his face in her hands and forced him to look at her. His tightly squeezed eyes slowly opened to witness a mischievous smile on her face.

Liz: I’ll forgive you, but...

Max: But?

Liz: (smiles) But only if you finish what you started.

Max: (sighs, teasingly) If I must...

Liz: (laughs) Yes. You must.

Her laughter died in her throat as Max’s lower body pulled back before sliding forward to fill her once again. She wrapped one leg around his waist while the other remained outstretched on the bed. They both moaned loudly at the change in sensation.

Max: Shit. Liz... You can’t... I’m gonna...

Liz: It’s okay. Cum in me, Max.

Max: But... I want you to...

Liz: Later.

Max: But -

Liz didn’t bother answering him verbally. Instead, she wrapped her other leg around his waist and lifted her lower body up towards his. Max’s upper body fell forward at her movement and his cock fell deeper inside of her. He buried his face in Liz’s neck as he thrust into her a few more times. His short breaths were loud in her ear, but she smiled at the words that spilled from his mouth as his sperm shot out of his dick in strong spurts.

Max: God... I love you... Uhh... Liz... Liz... LIZ!

He rested against her for a few moments until he regained some strength. Out of habit, Max started to lift himself off of her, but Liz stopped him.

Liz: Max... Don’t go.

Max: What?

Liz: Stay. There’s no danger in staying.

Max: Oh. I, uh... What?

Liz: (laughs) It’s a good thing that I’m the only one who knows that this is your weak spot, Max Evans. I could probably get you to agree to cartwheel through the café in a frilly pink dress if I asked you right now.

Max: I don’t... Liz?

Liz: Shh. Go to sleep, Max. No one else will ever see you like this, anyhow.

Max: Mmm?

Liz’s body shook slightly as she pictured Max doing a gymnastic routine in the middle of the Crashdown. She shook even harder, doing her best to stifle her laughter, as she imagined the look of surprise on her father’s face. Finally, Liz couldn’t take it any longer and burst out into a fit of giggles. A groggy Max lifted his head from her chest and smiled at the happiness shining from her face.

Max: What’s so funny?

Liz: Oh... You... and the pink... and... oh, God... my father...

Max: Umm... okay?

Liz laughed even harder at the confused expression on his slightly pink face. He lifted himself up on his arms, intending to browbeat the source of her laughter out of her. Instead, his movement had inadvertently shifted their lower bodies. Liz let out a sharp gasp. Max stiffened, fearing that he’d harmed her.

Max: Liz! Liz, are you okay?

Liz: I... Yeah... Max, do that again.

Max: What?

Liz: Move your hips again.

Max: But I’m not even... hard.

Liz: It feels good.

He shrugged his shoulders and began to move his hips against her in a circular motion. Liz moaned and lifted her lower body slightly. Her pelvis moved in a circle opposite the direction of Max’s. His cock was only semi-erect, but Max somehow managed to keep it inside of her. They continued their movements for quite some time. Liz was lost in the sensations, while Max was excited by Liz’s pleasure. As his penis once again began to grow, it hit against something inside of Liz’s body that soon had her pussy contracting over his thickening erection.

She cried out as her orgasm raced through her body. When it finished, Liz lay limply on her back and snapped her aching toes. Her thighs spread wide against the comforter as Max fell deeper into her. He didn’t move, however, as Liz’s eyes remained closed.

Liz: Keep going, Max.

Max: I wasn’t sure you were awake.

Liz: Didn’t I tell you to fuck me until I passed out?

Max: (blushes) Well, uh... Yeah?

Liz: And what did I tell you to do after that?

Max: I... Liz, I can’t!

Liz: You’re too cute.

She pulled her thighs closer to hug his body between them and languidly raised her arms to surround his back.

Liz: Mmm... I believe I told you to fuck me again when I woke up.

Max: (swallows loudly) Liz, I -

Liz: Wanna try something?

Max: Umm... Maybe?

Liz: Sit back up and close your eyes.

He looked at her warily, and Liz sighed in exasperation.

Liz: Please, Max?

He groaned but slowly pulled out of her body to rest back on his knees. Max let out a dramatic sigh and closed his eyes, a boyish pout on his lips. Liz smiled at the sight before readjusting her position on the bed. When she was settled, she called to him.

Liz: Open them up!

She heard his gasp of surprise and grinned to herself.

Max: Liz? Wh... What?

Liz: I know this is one of your fantasies, Max.

Max: Liz, I... But...

Liz: Please, Max? I can’t do this by myself.

Max: (softly) Thank you.

She turned her head to look back at him and gave him an exaggerated wink.

Liz: You’re welcome. Now fuck me.

Max exhaled sharply before moving closer to her body. She was on all fours in the middle of the bed, and she was wiggling her ass at him invitingly. Liz’s motions stopped as she felt Max’s hands caressing her hips. She was nervous for a moment as she felt him guiding his cock in and around her waiting hole. Her muscles clenched before relaxing as Max pressed a gentle kiss on her lower back.

Max: Are you sure?

Liz nodded and backed herself into him. He took the hint and, after pressing his cockhead into her wet pussy, grabbed onto her hips as his hips thrust forward. Liz buried her face in her bedspread as she let out a long, low moan. With every thrust into her body, Max emitted another hissed cry.

As Max’s pace sped up, Liz turned her head to watch him. She gasped at the sight. Max’s head was thrown back, his eyes squeezed shut and his mouth open wide. His body was covered in a faint pink flush. Max’s large hands were gripping her hips as he slammed his cock inside her. She closed her eyes and allowed herself to just feel.

Max: Ahhh... Shit!

Liz: Oh, fuck! ... Max! ... Uhh, fuck... Fuck me!

Max had the presence of mind to remember Liz’s pleasure. He lifted one leg up so he could lean forward a bit. He snuck a hand over her thigh to rub at her plump clitoris. Max had barely touched her before she was screaming into the bedspread again. His own hoarse cries followed shortly after.

They collapsed onto the bed together, utterly exhausted. Max curled up against her back, and the two fell into a much-deserved slumber.

Chapter Sixty Three

Maria and Alex arrived at the reservation and were surprised that Max’s Jeep was nowhere in sight. They parked their cars and got out to stand leaning against them, waiting for further instruction. Maria and Alex alternately opened their mouths, as if to speak, but neither could find a topic suitable for conversation. Maria was heading into her car to warm up when Max screeched to a stop nearby. Maria turned her head to avoid the cloud of sand that Max had stirred up, but Alex’s mouth seemed to be stuck open in anticipation of finding something to talk about. As he spat the dirt out of his mouth and angrily rubbed at his tearing eyes, Maria hurried to Max’s side.

Maria: Where the hell have you been, huh? I mean, you take off like a bat out of - No! An alien out of a commitment, and you wouldn’t have even told us where we were supposed to go if Alex hadn’t thought to ask you. What’s going on, Max? Where’s Liz? Why do you need us here? Where are Michael and Isabel? Why aren’t they -

Alex: Can it, DeLuca!

Max: Thanks, Alex. (turns) Maria, it’s Liz. River Dog says we can help her, but she needs human energy, I guess.

Maria: What does that mean?

Max: I’m not sure, but we really need to get going.

Alex: What about the others?

Max: We don’t have a lot of time. River Dog said only to bring humans I trust, so...

Maria: So, why would you want to bring Kyle?

Alex: Whoa. Harsh.

Maria: Look, I’m not trying to start any -

Max: Liz trusts him, okay? And... Whether or not I like Kyle very much right now, Liz... She, uh... She trusts him, so... That has to be enough.

Alex: Want me to stay and direct traffic?

Max: No, uh... Eddie’s hanging around somewhere. When... If Kyle and his dad show up, he’ll show them where to go. Now, let’s get going.

Maria: Whatever you say, chief.

Alex: Was that supposed to be funny?

Maria: What? No!

They headed into the woods and started the long hike to the cave. Max lead the way, while Alex and Maria struggled to keep up with him. Max stopped when he heard Maria’s loud wail.

Max: What’s wrong?

Maria: I don’t remember it being this far away. Are we there yet? My feet are killing me!

Max: Almost, Maria.

Alex: Seriously, who wears platform sandals in December?

Max: Come on. It’s just a little bit further.

A few minutes later, they had reached the entrance to the cave. Max went in first. Alex swept his hand in front of him, ushering Maria in before him. They saw that River Dog had set up the circle as he had once before for Michael. It wasn’t in the same spot, as he had feared to move Liz’s body. She lay in the center of a lopsided circle, with five spokes leading out of the middle.

River Dog: It’s just the three of you?

Max: Yeah. I couldn’t find the others.

Maria: Is that gonna be okay? ‘Cause, I mean, didn’t you say that you healed that bastard Nasedo by yourself? It took five of us - Wait, no, four of us to heal Michael, though. Maybe you should -

Max: Five.

Maria: - jump in the circle with us, too. I mean, maybe you’ve got some major mojo going on in there. And what if -

Alex: What do you mean, five?

Max: All five of us were there. Didn’t you see Liz in the vision?

Maria: I was too focused on Michael to notice, I guess.

Max: Alex?

Alex: I don’t really remember all that much. I don’t think I saw anyone but Michael.

River Dog: She was outside the circle, but you saw her inside it?

Max: I... Yeah. Yes. She... She just kind of appeared. I, umm... I saw movement beyond Michael, and I knew it was her before I could even see her.

River Dog: We will discuss this again later. Did you bring the stones?

Max: Yeah.

River Dog: (to Max) You will hold three. Your energy is deeply entwined with hers. (to Maria and Alex) You each hold one. Remember to concentrate only on your friend.

Maria: Don’t we have to drink the water again?

River Dog: No. You are already bound.

Maria: Huh?

River Dog: Now is not the time. Your friend is in great danger.

They fanned out to surround Liz as she lay on the ground in the center of the circle. Max stood at her head. Alex was at the spot to his right, and Maria was one space beyond Alex. The two open places faced one of the cave’s walls and were pressed up against it. The three teens began to chant words in a language they didn’t understand but had been guided to speak by River Dog. Liz remained still on the dirt floor as the healing stones began to glow.

A series of flashes flit through Liz’s mind as she struggles to wake up during the ceremony.

*~*

Psychic: I’ve never seen the cards fall like this before. This boy, he’s different.

Liz: Yeah.

Psychic: He’s very important, this boy. A leader.

Liz: Yeah. He has this whole other destiny... that doesn’t include me.

Psychic: No. He chooses love.

Liz: What?

Psychic: He chooses you.

Liz: No, no, no, no, see, that’s impossible.

Psychic: The reading is clear. You marry your true love. You have happiness. The card here? Intimacy, sex. You will not be left wanting.

*~*

Liz: Wait. Umm, Max...? You know about those dreams I’ve been having?

Max: Yeah...

Liz: Well, I got the impression that we didn’t need to... I guess we can’t, um, breed...

*~*

Liz: Isabel... I’m... I’m not trying to take him away from you. I mean... I could never even do that.

Isabel: I don’t know about that, Parker.

Liz: What do you mean? I... I couldn’t ask Max to do that.

Isabel: You wouldn’t have to. All you gotta do is spread your legs, and Max’ll follow you wherever you go.

*~*

Maria: He’s staring at you again, Liz.

Liz: What? Who?

Maria: Max Evans. Who else?

Liz: No. That is... That’s just not possible.

Maria: C’mon, Alex. Help me out. Is he or is he not checking out our girl’s goods?

Alex: Huh?

Maria: Hello! Max Evans... staring at Liz...

Alex: Umm... Yes?

Liz: See? It’s all in your head, Maria.

Maria: No. Alex is just too busy focusing on the wrong Evans to see it.

Alex: Hey! I’m sitting right here, you know.

*~*

Maria: Are you still a virgin?

Liz: I’m not sure.

*~*

Liz found herself standing in the middle of what appeared to be a giant wheel. It was misshapen, but she didn’t focus on that fact. She saw movement out of the corner of her eye and turned to face whatever was over there. It was Alex.

He walked into the circle’s center and wrapped his arms around Liz in a comforting hug. She hugged him but then took a step back. His image started to flicker before her. Alex’s mouth opened, but she could hear no sound. Liz reached toward him but stopped as she saw movement coming from the other direction. Maria was heading toward her.

The two girls embraced. Liz searched her friend’s eyes for some hidden message, but whatever she was looking for, it wasn’t there. She flashed a small smile at Maria before turning around to face the presence she felt behind her. Max.

He spun her around into his arms before gently brushing his lips against hers. Their hands lifted to frame the other’s face as their kiss grew more intense. Max lifted her body, and Liz wrapped her legs around Max’s waist. Although she couldn’t hear it, Liz was certain that they were both moaning.

While they kissed, Liz started to witness another scene. She saw brief flashes of Max and herself locked in passionate embraces. Between the sexual scenes, Liz witnessed images she was somewhat familiar with: a glowing green substance, the whirlwind symbol, a pinkish jelly. She could feel something tickling at the back of her mind. Liz was certain that she was about to understand something.

She let out an unheard cry when her flashes suddenly changed. Liz witnessed Max and Tess together in the desert. Suddenly, Max was gone from her arms and standing beside Tess. Kissing, touching, holding up a child. She took a step towards them, confused, but Max frowned at her before returning his attention to the child in his arms. Tess grinned at her and then leaned up to kiss Max.

Liz woke up with a scream.

Chapter Sixty Four (a)

Max, Alex, and Maria let out shouts of pain as the healing stones they held in their hands changed temperature drastically. The cool, soothing blue glow that had been pulsing out of the rocks dimmed to nothingness before suddenly emitting a bright red light. The stones had been cool when first placed in their hands, but they had warmed to the temperature of the bodies that held them. As the menacing red light glowed from within, the stones’ temperature skyrocketed, burning into the skin of the three teens.

Maria dropped her stone almost immediately. It fell to her feet before rolling to a stop by one of Liz’s feet. She watched in amazement as it burst into flames when it hit the ground. Just as suddenly as the fire had started, it blew out, leaving behind an innocent-looking stone that just barely emitted a soft pink glow.

A few moments later, Alex hissed and flung the heated rock to the ground. He shook his hand in an attempt to alleviate the pain, never noticing that his stone also burst into flames when it reached the packed dirt. His stone had landed near Liz’s shoulder. He opened his eyes when he heard Maria’s voice.

Maria: Are you okay?

Alex: Did... What happened?

Maria: I don’t know. We were there, and then I hugged Liz, and then...

Alex: All of a sudden, I felt something wrong. Really, really wrong.

Maria: Yeah. So I opened my eyes, and my hand was burning. So, I dropped the damn rock.

Alex: What do you think happened?

Maria: I don’t know! I mean, I dropped it, and then it caught fire, but then it stopped.

Alex: Hmm.

Maria: Yours did, too.

Alex: Really?

Maria: Yeah. And now they’re glowing pink. They were orange-y before, and then I think they were blue, but... Just before you dropped yours, it turned this really dark shade of red.

Alex: Bing cherry red?

Maria: What...? Funny. No, deeper. Now they’re pink.

Alex: Weird.

Maria: Do you smell that?

Alex: Yeah. It, uh...

Maria: Oh, my God! Max!

Alex: Holy shit!

Max’s eyes were squeezed tight. Sweat dripped down his face, intermingled with tears. His body was rigid, hands clenching the rocks in his bleeding hands. Blood dripped from between his fingers, landing in a quickly growing puddle at his feet. Maria and Alex started to move toward him but found that they were trapped in place.

Maria: What’s going on? Max! Max, wake up!

Alex: He’s bleeding really bad, Maria.

Maria: Where the fuck is River Dog?

Alex: I don’t know... Whoa!

Smoke rose from Max’s cupped palms as the stones burst into flame. The blood stopped dripping, cauterized by the intensity of the heat in his hands. The nauseating smell of burning flesh filled the cave. Maria and Alex continued to fight against whatever was holding them back, but they were trapped where they were. They shouted at Max, though their voices didn’t seem to penetrate the pain he was in.

Suddenly, Max let out a harsh gasp and dropped the flaming rocks to the ground. They rolled to a stop, seemingly on their own. One remained at the top of Liz’s head where Max had let it fall. Another stone traveled down to rest by Liz’s foot. The remaining rock stopped at her shoulder. Liz was surrounded by the stones, each resting on a line that led out from under her body.

As the last rock came to a stop, all five once again burst into flame. The flame was high, coming up to Max’s knees, and so hot that the fire was composed of blue and white, no trace of red, orange, or yellow. As the fire engulfed the stones, red light once again pulsed from inside them. The menacing light burned out, causing the flames to die down, as well. As the flames were about to extinguish themselves, a red beam shot out from the rock at Liz’s head. It connected with the rock by her shoulder and continued on until her body was surrounded by a perimeter of glowing red light. The flames kicked up again, following the red light to also outline Liz’s frame.

The teens watched on in a mixture of horror, awe, and disbelief as a green shield was thrown out from Liz’s middle. It hovered over her still body before wrapping around the dueling flames and reducing them to a thin tendril of smoky air. The smoke diffused into the cave, making it difficult for anything to be seen. When the air cleared, Liz’s force field dropped away, and she sat up abruptly.

Liz: Noooooooooooooo!


*I hope to have part b out by tomorrow afternoon at the latest. You 've brought up some interesting points and asked some intriguing questions yet again. I must admit, I didn't see your confusion with Tess' sudden presence coming, but... I already knew it was coming. ::sigh:: I need to get out more... At the very least, I need to find something to keep me from watching the next few episodes. I'm almost up to Viva Las Vegas, which is fine, but... I'm gonna want to poke my eyes out with a blunt object if I continue. HELP!!!
-Jen*

Chapter Sixty Four (b)

Max rushed to the center of the circle upon hearing her scream. Liz was sitting on the ground, holding her knees to her chest. Her eyes were glassy and unfocused as they darted about the cave. Max dropped to his knees in front of her and gently grasped her face in his hands, trying to gain her attention. Liz hissed at his touch, and Max let out a short cry of his own.

Where Max had touched her, Liz’s cheeks crackled with green energy. He looked down at his hands, looking to find the source of her pain. Instead, he found the source of his own. His hands were charred and blistered. The pain instantly registered as he inspected the burns. He clasped his hands together, regretting the move immediately, but Max grit his teeth and focused on healing himself.

Once finished, he moved toward Liz again, but she whimpered and kicked her feet out at him as she shoved herself backward. Maria and Alex watched on in confusion. Liz finally reached a wall of the cave and could back up no more. Max slowly crawled toward her but was stopped by a firm hand on his shoulder.

Alex: You’re hurting her, Max.

Max: No! No, I can help her.

He forced his shoulder forward, releasing himself from Alex’s grip, and continued to move toward Liz. Alex shrugged his shoulders and turned his questioning gaze to Maria.

Maria stepped forward and crouched down next to Max. She grabbed onto both of his shoulders and forced him to look at her. His eyes were unfocused, as well. Maria shook him, hoping to force him out of his stupor.

Maria: Max! MAX! Look at her! She’s scared.

When he made no indication that he’d heard Maria, she stood up and kicked him in the back of his thigh.

Max: (painfully) Liz?

She continued to huddle against the cave wall, avoiding eye contact with all of them. When Max managed to reach her again, Liz let out a shriek, and a green force field projected itself from her stomach. Max, Alex, and Maria hovered around Liz in a semi circle, just at the edge of the shield. Max reached a hand out towards Liz, as if to comfort her from the outside, but to his surprise, his hand slid right through the gelatinous substance.

He pulled his hand out and tried it again. He discovered that it wasn’t his hand going through the material as much as it was parting to let him in.

Max: Try to put your hand through it, you two.

Maria and Alex exchanged nervous glances but did as directed. Their hands met resistance.

Alex: That’s some weird shit.

Maria: What the hell is going on here? Look at her! What’s wrong with her? Why didn’t the healing thingie work? Why is she still crackling? Did you do something to her? What did you do to her, huh? Listen, buddy, you can’t just go around pumping us humans full of your alien mojo, okay? I mean, this just isn’t right. I think -

Alex: Can it, Maria. None of us know what’s going on, okay? And... even if it is Max’s fault... which I’m not saying it is... I’m sure he didn’t do it on purpose. You need to calm down.

Maria: Right. Right. We need to think. Think. Think, DeLuca. Liz is covered in green ectoplasm and fire’s sparking all over the place. So, it’s like, umm... Shit! Liz is the one who figures this crap out. I... I can’t do this! I can’t! Help her, Max!

Max had tuned them out long before and was pushing his way inside Liz’s force field as Maria and Alex conversed. Once inside the cramped space, Max fell to his knees in front of Liz and fought the urge to touch her. She was sobbing.

Max: (softly) Liz? (pauses) Can you hear me, Liz?

Liz: Am I gonna die?

Max: No. I... No. That can’t... I won’t let that happen.

Liz: Why do you have your shield up?

Max: Liz... I don’t.

Liz: I know everyone thinks I’m going crazy, but there’s a big green blob be... hind you...

Max: It’s coming from you.

Liz: It is?

Max: It came out of your... stomach, I guess. This is the second one you’ve done.

Liz lifted her shirt to find the source of her shield and wasn’t totally surprised to find Max’s hand print glowing brightly on her stomach.

Max: Does it hurt?

Liz: No... No, it... It kinda tickles, actually.

Max: Kinda like just before you...

Liz: Yeah. Just like that. (looks down) It’s, umm... like this electricity is running through me, and... and I feel all tight and achy, but...

Max: Really good, too?

Liz: Uh huh. Is... Is it like that for you, too?

Max: It depends on what I’m using my powers for... Healing... That doesn’t feel very good. It’s... draining. But... When my shield’s up, it’s... almost like I’m pulling energy in from outside of me. Like I’m gaining energy.

Liz: But... in Copper Summit... you couldn’t keep the shield up.

Max: I know. I, uh... I think it was because Greer was sucking up energy, too... Too much for me to replace.

Liz: How do I get rid of this thing?

Max: Focus, okay? Think about dissolving the field that’s surrounding you. You don’t want to pull all that back inside you, okay?

Liz slowly nodded her head. She closed her eyes and concentrated on following Max’s directions. Max watched her, wanting to touch her, to help her control the energy, but he knew he couldn’t. Not until he was sure she wouldn’t get hurt.

Alex: You don’t think they’re gonna... you know?

Maria: Come on, Alex. This is Max and Liz we’re talking about.

Alex: And how many times have we seen Liz topless lately?

Maria: Okay. Good point.

Alex: Something’s happening.

They backed away from the green shield as it started to change shape. It started to thin in spots around the edges, while thickening in the center. Maria and Alex were taken by surprise when the substance exploded, covering them in a chitin-like mess.

Alex wiped the goo out of his eyes and mouth and turned to see Maria sputtering and stomping about. Her mouth had been open when the shield exploded.

Alex: Wow. Finally found a way to shut you up.

Maria: Funny. A little help over here?

Alex: Oh, shit!

Maria: No fucking way! We’re covered in weird alien shit, and they’re too busy making out to help us clean up. Oh, no. This is gonna stop right now.

As Maria stalked over to the cave wall where Max and Liz were currently wrapped up in each other, she forgot about the slime-covered ground. She fell to the ground with a hard thud. Maria let out a shriek of frustration, barely louder in volume than Alex’s roaring guffaws. The noise finally gained the attention of Max and Liz.

Max: What’s going on?


*Well, I suppose the worst thing I can do is predict when my next part will be out. It's like a jinx or something. I owe me a Coke. Blah.
-Jen*

Chapter Sixty Five

Maria: That’s what I’d like -

Michael: (gasps) We got here as fast as we could.

Maria: - to know.

Michael was follwed into the cave by an out-of-breath Kyle. Isabel and Tess strolled in minutes later.

Michael: You started without us?

Alex: You’re not supposed to be here.

Kyle: What do you mean? The note said -

Max tore himself away from Liz to address the forming crowd. As he did so, Liz once again curled in on herself.

Max: What did you write, Maria?

Maria: To meet us here.

Max: All of them?

Maria: Yeah, I... You didn’t say otherwise, Max.

A whimpering noise grabbed Max’s attention. He turned to see that green streaks of energy were crawling over Liz’s shaking body. The rest of the group gathered around, all slightly behind Max, but forming a semicircle around Liz.

Max: Damnit!

Kyle: What’s wrong? What’s going on? Why is she sparkling again?

Max: I don’t know.

Max stepped forward to try to help her, but Liz was vehemently shaking her head.

Liz: Get out, get out, GET OUT!

Maria: Who, honey?

Liz’s hands outstretched towards the group, and it was only quick thinking on Max’s part that kept anyone from being flung across the cave. His shield came up in time to absorb the power blasts shooting out of Liz’s palms.

Liz: OUT! OUT, OUT, OUT!!!

The group shuffled out of the cave. Everyone was careful to stay behind Max’s shield, not certain what Liz’s actions might be. Max dropped the shield as he reached the opening. He and Michael remained stationed on both sides of the entrance. The others milled about, finding seats on nearby rocks and overturned logs.

Isabel: What’s happening to her?

Max: I don’t know. The healing... It didn’t work.

Michael: How is that possible?

Max: I don’t know, damnit. I don’t know anything. It’s ‘cause of me that she’s like this, but I have no fucking clue how to fix it. This... It was my last hope.

He hung his head, dejectedly. I should be able to fix this. I can’t live without her. This is all my fault.

Alex: What else have you tried?

Max: I... I scanned her, but... There’s nothing wrong with her... physically.

Kyle: Overlooking the green sparkles, of course.

Max: That’s just it. I can’t even find the source of them. And her hand print’s glowing now.

Maria jumped up from the log where she’d been resting, dusting dirt and moss off of her behind as she walked over to stand in front of Max. Her hands waved about in the air as she talked.

Maria: Whoa, whoa, whoa. When you say hand print...

Max: From where I healed her. It’s glowing. I think... I think that’s where her shield came from.

Michael: That makes no sense!

Max: None of this does! I don’t know what to do!

Kyle stopped his perusal of his hands when a thought crossed his mind. He turned to face Tess, who was perched next to him on a large boulder.

Kyle: Tess! Did Nasedo ever tell you about this kind of thing?

Tess: No.

Maria: (mutters) How convenient.

Kyle: Please, Tess.

Tess: He only told me what I needed to know... about who I am, my powers, my destiny...

Maria rolled her eyes as she turned in Tess’ direction. With arms akimbo and a tapping foot, she was an intimidating sight.

Maria: Then why did Ava know?

Max: What do you mean?

Maria: Well, when you were in New York, and Liz was saving your ass, she said that you’d changed Liz... That’s why she could reach you all the way across the country. She never explained... Not to me, anyway.

Tess: I... I don’t know how she’d know anything. We didn’t have the same protector!

Michael’s arms dropped from where they’d been crossed against his chest. He hurried over to Tess, glaring at her menacingly.

Michael: Wait a minute. You telling me there’s another one out there? Where is he?

Tess: I don’t know.

Max: Please, Tess. Anything you might know will help. I... I can’t lose her.

Tess jumped up from the rock, pushing past an angry Michael to stand in front of Max.

Tess: Oh, of course. Now you want my help. When schizo in there needs it. Is this it? Am I your bottom of the barrel resource?

Max: No! You know that’s not -

Maria grabbed hold of Tess’ arm and spun her body around. When Tess was facing her, Maria leaned in toward the other girl’s face and poked a bony finger into Tess’ upper chest.

Maria: What the fuck is your problem, bitch? (poke) You waltz your chubby ass in here like you own the place and you fuck up everything around you. (poke) Do we kill you like we wanted to? (poke) No. (poke) No, we take you in. (poke) And Liz... My God, do you have any idea what Liz did to keep you here? (poke)

Tess: Spare me the drama, DeLuca.

Maria looked into Tess’ impassive face and became down right irate. She whirled around and ran over to where Michael was leaning against a tree. She stood at his side and grasped his arm, trying her best to move it the way she wanted. He pulled his arm from her hands and looked at her with an incredulous expression.

Maria: Spaceboy! Give me your blasting hand!

Michael: What?

Maria: I’m gonna fry the bitch!

While Maria was literally hanging off of Michael’s crossed arms, Alex jumped up from the log he’d been sitting on. He stood in the middle of the group and waved his arms above his head as he yelled to get their drifting attention.

Alex: Shut up! Everyone! Liz is in there - possibly dying - and we’re out here pointing fingers at each other. It’s not gonna help her! Tess, if you know something, we would all really appreciate it if you shared with the class, okay? We’re not using you. You are a part of this group, this team, okay? Please...

Tess: The dupes had a different protector than us. I don’t know his name or if he’s even still alive.

Michael: Great. What are we gonna do, then? (turns) God, Maria, get the fuck off me.

Maria unclenched her fingers from Michael’s arms and stood on her own feet. She began to walk around, her movements agitated, her expression worried.

Maria: We need to think. What would Liz do if she was here and not in there and one of us was in there instead? She’d think rationally and figure this out, right? Right. So what we need to do here is find a way to think like Liz would think if Liz could think right now, which she totally would if it were any of us in there instead of her, and God knows that I can’t do that, so one of you need to figure something out and fast, ‘cause I can’t live without Lizzie. I don’t think any of us could - except Tess, of course, but we need to help her! I mean, it’s not just her life at stake at this point, you know? I mean, what if -

Alex: We get the picture.

Max: We’re doing everything we can.

Maria: But what if it’s not enough?

Max: I don’t... I’m sorry.

Alex began to pace through the center of their haphazard circle, his shoulders hunched and head hung low as his long pants trailed through the fallen leaves on the ground.

Alex: Let’s forget about the protector for a minute, okay? We need to focus on Liz and what we can do to help her. So... Here’s the facts. Liz was healed by Max about fifteen months ago, leaving behind a silver hand print on her stomach. Ava, Tess’ double, said that Liz had been changed by Max when he healed her. Said changes allowed Liz to project herself across the country to appear before Max. Did anyone else see her? Tess?

Tess: No. But I... Rath was dragging me away.

Tess kept her eyes on the ground. At her statement, Maria crossed her arms over her chest and started to ridicule her.

Maria: I’m sure you -

Alex: Moving on! So, only Max was able to see Liz. Since that time, and maybe even before that... Things have been happening to her. Let’s go over them, okay?

Maria: She’s been having a lot of visions.

Alex: Right. One of which says I’m not here...

Kyle: And there’s the green sparkles.

Michael: Who says sparkles? What are you, an eight year old girl?

Kyle: Funny. (shrugs) No.

Max stared at the ground as he scratched the back of his neck. His cheeks infused with pink as he spoke.

Max: She’s been, uh... really... expressive... of her, umm...

Isabel: She’s been acting like a dog in heat.

Alex: Thanks for the subtlety, Is.

Isabel: Whatever.

Maria: The healing didn’t work. That’s big.

They were all silent for a moment, contemplating the enormity of the situation and searching for a solution. Max’s head shot up when Alex spoke to him.

Alex: What did you see while we were in the circle, Max?

Max: What do you mean?

Alex: Well, when we were in there, we didn’t see each other.

Maria: I hugged Liz, and then I was pulled out ‘cause I was holding a hot potato.

Alex: Same for me.

Max: I... I saw the both of you. Alex, you went to her first. She hugged you, but then she backed away. Then you started to flicker and disappeared.

Alex: I flickered?

Max: Yeah. Then Maria came over. Liz hugged you, but... then she spun around to face me. I don’t remember seeing either of you two after that.
Maria: No, we jumped out when the pain got too bad.

Max once again refused to make eye contact, finding his shoe laces particularly fascinating as he explained his experience to the group.

Max: Right. Well, uh... I walked up to her, and we, uh... We kissed. And I was holding her in my arms... and we had some flashes while we kissed. But, then... I’m not sure what happened.

Michael: Try to remember, Maxwell.

Max: I remember what happened, I’m just not sure what it was. She’d, uh... been wrapped around my waist, but, umm... all of a sudden, she was standing in the middle of the circle again. I was right next to her, but she didn’t seem to see me anymore... She was looking off into the distance and looked really upset. I tried to see what she was looking at, but there was nothing there. When I reached out to touch her... I-I don’t know. It’s like she pushed me out. Threw me out.

Maria: Like she did that new girl.

Isabel: Tess, too.

Alex: And just before we left the cave.

Max: Yeah, I guess... Next thing I know, my hands are on fire and Liz is surrounded by a green bubble.

Alex: A bubble that let you in, but not us.

Kyle: So... Has this gotten us anywhere?

Tess: Not that I can see.

Alex shook his head as if to clear it. A finger shot up into the air as a thought crossed his mind.

Alex: Max, River Dog said that your energy was connected to hers. Maybe... Maybe he was wrong about who needed to heal her. She seems to spark up around you, Max. What if...

Max: What?

Alex: I don’t know, but... You said there was nothing physically wrong with her. Maybe Isabel... or, umm... Tess... should check her out. Mentally.

Maria jumped in front of Alex and grabbed him by the shoulders. She looked him in the eyes and shook his body as she spoke.

Maria: Alex! What are you saying?! Liz wouldn’t want either of them in her head.

Alex grabbed Maria’s shoulders in return and held her shaking body still.

Alex: You got a better idea?

Michael: Look, it can’t hurt.

Max: Let’s hope not. Isabel? Will you try?

Isabel slowly walked over from the tree she’d been leaning against. Her eyebrows were drawn together and her lips were pursed as she considered what was being asked of her.

Isabel: Max, I don’t know...

Max: Please, Is. I really need your help.

Isabel: Okay. But I can’t make any promises.

Max: Thank you. (turns) Let’s do this.


*Thanks for all the feedback, guys!
-Jen*

Chapter Sixty Six

December 22, 2000

I’m Liz Parker, and I’m wondering... Have I really returned to normal? It’s been almost three weeks since “the incident”. I knew from the start of this whole crazy “thing” with Max that it would never be normal... that nothing in my life ever would in any way resemble normal ever again. And yet... I’m feeling... normal.

It’s highly disconcerting. After a few months of complete havoc, I seem to be “okay” again. They’ve convinced me - or tried to - that it was all in my imagination. Future Max, the flashes, all of it.

I’ve gone along with it... if only to get them to stop looking at me in that way... the way you look at someone who might go off at the slightest provocation. A caged animal let loose. In some ways, I feel like I’m in a cage. This exclusive club I’ve joined can be awfully claustrophobic. My other friendships have evaporated... and yet I’m finding it difficult to find my place in the group. Once upon a time, I knew my place was at Max’s side, me looking forward while Max’s gaze drifted behind us. But now...

Now, there’s an uneasiness evident between us. All of us, really, but Max and me in particular. What I really meant by “all of us” was all of them and me. Not only am I wavering in my position... (What am I? Treasurer? Recorder? Unnecessary liability???) but they’re watching me pretty intently. Waiting for me to mess up again, I guess.

Alex is off in Europe, not to return until after Christmas. I don’t know how he’s managing that. I wouldn’t want to be alone on Christmas... But I’m glad that he’s getting a chance to get away from all of this. Maria is juggling her time between screaming at Michael and making out with him. Their relationship is so volatile... Yet they are together when all is said and done. I’m not really sure when that happened... They were barely speaking after the Courtney incident, and then it was insult-hurling. I’m happy for them, though.

I have a suspicion that my illness has played a big part in their reunion. The group seems to be closer now, and I am definitely feeling left out. Even Kyle has been drafted into the tightening circle... Although I’m pretty sure that his presence has much more to do with Tess being there than anything else. He’s worried about me, sure... they all are, but... I don’t even know if Kyle is aware of his feelings - or if Tess is aware of Kyle’s feelings, for that matter. They’re thick as thieves these days.

As far as Tess is concerned, she seems to be settling into a human role in Roswell. I think Kyle and the Sheriff have been really good for her... the family element she’d lacked growing up. There’s no love lost between the two of us, and I’m still not exactly sure what her role in my “healing” at the reservation was, but... I’m giving her the benefit of the doubt. Against my better judgment.

Isabel is confusing the hell out of everyone. It seems as though she might be more unstable than I am... was... whatever. One minute, she’s blowing up about some inconsequential thing, and the next, she’s doing community service. Her contempt has targeted Max lately, though I’m not sure why that is. Despite her horrible treatment of him, Max is doing what he can to accommodate her. She got a late start on her Christmas preparations, as she didn’t want to have anything to do with the holiday up until yesterday. Now, the whole Evans family is in a panic, trying to make her happy.

Max, of course, is trying the hardest to please her. I think it really hurts him when she treats him the way she does. I just wish that she would see what she’s doing to him. He’s been keeping away from me. I’m not sure why, exactly, but I think it has to do with his continued belief that I slept with Kyle. I don’t know how many times I have to tell him that I didn’t, that I’m a virgin... I’ve given up on that, I guess. He’s going to believe what he wants to believe. And, for a long time, what he wanted to believe was that I’d never betray him in such a horrible way... But now... I think he’s given up, too... On me, that is.

The flashes have stopped. The green energy has, too. I still get nauseated at times, but much less than before. I’m actually feeling pretty good, all things considered. My doctor seems really pleased with my treatment... though I think I’d end up with a full frontal lobotomy if I told him what had really fixed my mind. “See, my alien friends went into my head and poked around until I only saw what was going on in front of me. You know, instead of the four or five different time lines I seemed to be experiencing. The pills are just a fun little experiment...”

Liz turned around in the booth she was sitting in when she felt Max’s eyes on her. He was standing outside of the Crashdown, looking at her uncertainly. She watched him for a moment, taking in his forlorn expression, before walking over to the cafe’s doors to let him in. He stood in the doorway for a moment, hesitating at the thought of revealing the ridiculousness of his predicament. If anyone will listen without judging me, it’s Liz. She looked up at him, tilting her head as he continued to stare over her head.

Liz: Max?

He jumped as she startled him from his reverie. Max jammed his hands in his coat pockets as he shrugged his shoulders. He studied the ground until her soft throat-clearing reminded him that she was waiting for him to start. He shyly looked up at her as he began.

Max: You know how we said we were gonna try to be friends?

Liz: Yeah.

Max: I think I need a friend.

Liz: Oh. Okay. Come in.

Max: Umm... Could we... (nods head toward the back of the café) It’s... complicated.

Liz: Yeah. Sure, umm... I’ll just lock up again. Meet me on my balcony in a few?

Max: Thank you.

Liz only nodded her head and watched him slowly turn around. He shuffled dejectedly toward the back of the building while Liz turned the key in the lock. She gathered up her journal and headed toward the back, shutting off the lights as she went.

She stopped to give her parents a kiss goodnight before walking to her bedroom. She closed the door behind her and set the journal down on her desk. Liz poked her head out the window to find Max staring blankly at the brick wall. She climbed through the window and walked over to him. Gently, she placed her hand on his shoulder. Max looked up, just noticing her presence as she touched him. He flashed her a small, tight smile.

Liz: What is it, Max?

Max: Do you think... if I... Would you think I was... a... killer -

Liz: Max! What? No!

Max: Listen... I just... I have this gift... and... not using it... not giving the gift of life... Does that make me a killer?

Liz: What’s this all about?

Max: Did you hear about the man that... got killed yesterday?

Liz shook her head, not having heard anything about a murder in Roswell. She watched with increasing concern as he moved around her balcony, his voice shaky and movements agitated.

Max: I... There was a crowd... a huge crowd... and everyone was watching... and I... I... I could have healed him, but I didn’t.

Liz: You were there?

Max: Y-Yeah... with Michael.

Liz: What happened?

Max: A man... He... he was with... with his daughter... and... this car, it... It came out of nowhere, and... It was headed right for the little girl... and... he... he threw her out... out of the way... and... It hit him... instead. I... I should have... I should have healed him!

Liz: Max, listen to me. Listen! You can’t hold yourself responsible for that man’s life.

Max: He gave his life for his daughter, and I let him die.

Liz: If you healed him, you would have exposed Michael, Isabel, and Tess.

He stopped his erratic movements and stood still, as if listening for something that Liz couldn’t hear. She strained to hear any noise, but there was nothing to be heard.

Max: I wasn’t thinking about Michael and Isabel and Tess. I was thinking about myself in the White Room and being tortured. I didn’t heal that man... because I was protecting myself. Why... Why couldn’t I trade my life for his?

Liz: No, Max, look. You can’t do that to yourself.

She cupped his face in her hands, forcing him to hear her words. He looked away before turning his body away, as well.

Max: He’s haunting me, Liz.

Liz: What do you mean?

Max: He comes to me. I see him.

Liz: You mean you literally see him.

Max: I have to do something.

Suddenly, Max rushed over to the side of the balcony and all but threw himself over the ledge. Liz ran to his side and grabbed his torso. She tugged, and Max righted himself. He looked at her then, scared and unsure what to do.

Liz: Max! Max! Max, what are you talking about?

Max: I don’t know.

She looked behind her as Max stared into the night’s darkness behind her. Liz turned, expecting to see the ghost, but nothing was there. Her concern increased as he continued to stand, frozen in place. She ran her hand through his hair, and he finally looked at her again.

Liz: Max?

Max: I need to restore the balance.



*Okay, a few things...
1. Yes, a bit of a jump in time, but, all things considered, there was a month between Max in the City and A Roswell Christmas Carol, so... this isn't so bad. (There will most likely be further exploration of this time at a later date. Probably... )
2. I'm going to skip pretty quickly through the Michael/Maria/Laurie Dupree parts, but not necessarily the rest of the episodes. Meaning, I'm sticking to the show's timeline or whatnot, but just ignoring anyone who isn't Max or Liz... which is what I've been doing so far, anyway. I think. I don't know, it's late.
3. Thanks for the feedback.

-Jen*

Chapter Sixty Seven

Liz looked up when she heard the light tapping on her window. She turned and, as expected, found Max crouched in front of the panes. Liz flashed a small smile before she finished buttoning her cardigan. A moment later, she opened the window, leaning against the ledge to avoid hitting her head.

Max: You look nice.

Liz: Thank you.

His eyes traveled over her face, taking in the light blush that stained her cheeks, and the subtle makeup she wore. Liz surveyed his face as well, happy to see that some of his weariness had disappeared. After several moments of their silence, Liz broke it to speak with him.

Liz: So I hear you went to Phoenix.

Max: Yeah. Thank you... for telling me about Sydney.

Liz: Are you still haunted?

Max: I don’t think so.

She looked at him again, really looking at him, as if reevaluating who Max Evans really was. Liz shook her head, realizing that he would always be her Max. Not that he’s actually mine... She leaned closer to his head as she spoke.

Liz: Healing all of those kids... Why did you do it?

He looked down, contemplating his actions. Max was distracted by the gentle sway of her breasts as Liz shifted on her feet. Is she wearing a bra? I don’t think she is! Oh, God...

Liz: Max?

Shaking his head away from his lustful thoughts, Max sought out the right words.

Max: After I healed Sydney, I... I looked at the face of the boy lying next to her, and I just thought... How can I not... How can I not use my gift?

Her eyes softened, wanting so much to do more to comfort him. As she spoke to him, she stroked her fingers through the hair above his ear.

Liz: As beautiful as that is, Max... you can’t keep doing it. I know it seems like there’s no reason for those kids to have cancer or for a father to get killed saving his child or for any of it... but maybe there is. Maybe there is someone or something out there that’s planning all of this, and maybe you have to respect it. You’re not God, Max. You’re the one that told me that. Will you come to midnight service?

Liz’s hand dropped away from his head. She crossed her arms beneath her breasts and looked away from him.

Max: I’d like to... but I don’t believe in God. Merry Christmas, Liz.

His hand reached out toward her, as if to caress her face, but Max hesitated a few inches from her cheek. He looked into her eyes, seeing love, hope, and fear swimming together. Liz gently grasped his hand within her own and brought his palm to lay against her cheek. His thumb lightly grazed over her cheekbone, and her eyes closed as she took in a deep breath.

His lips pressed against hers, a kiss that would have been a chaste kiss of friendship between another two people. Liz had barely felt his skin touching hers before he had pulled away. She heard a strangled noise come from Max’s throat, but by the time she’d opened her eyes, Max was climbing over the edge of her balcony. He looked at her as she shut the window. Their eyes locked for a moment before Max managed a grim smile. Liz touched her fingers to her lips, and then to the glass, as if to trace his features, and whispered to him.

Liz: Merry Christmas, Max.

She stood by the window for several minutes, lost in thought. She was startled from her reverie by the sound of her father’s voice calling to her.

Mr. Parker: You ready to go, Lizzie?

Liz: Yeah. I’ll be right out.

Her father dropped her off at the town square where the midnight service was being held. He stopped her as she reached to open the car door.

Mr. Parker: You sure you’re okay here by yourself?

Liz: (rolls eyes) The whole town is out here, Daddy. I’ll be fine.

Mr. Parker: And you’ll call if you change your mind?

Liz: I’m sure Maria will give me a ride home, but I promise to call if she can’t. Okay?

Mr. Parker: I just worry about you, honey.

Liz: I know...

She scrambled out of the car. Liz started to close the door but stopped halfway through the act. She reached across the car to place a kiss on her father's cheek.

Liz: Thank you, Daddy. (pauses) I love you.

Mr. Parker: I love you too, Liz. Go on, have a good time.

Liz: Okay. I’ll see you later.

Mr. Parker: Goodnight.

Liz watched her father drive off before walking toward the packed congregation. She wandered down the aisle, searching for an empty seat.

Mrs. Evans: Liz! Liz Parker! There’s room over here!

Liz: Oh, umm... You know, that’s okay. I think I’ll just stand over by -

Mrs. Evans: Don’t be silly, Liz. There’s plenty of space. Right, Isabel?

Isabel: Uh huh.

Mrs. Evans: Oh, don’t mind her. She’s just upset because Max won’t come to the service.

Liz: Yeah. I asked him, too, but...

Mrs. Evans: Thanks for trying, honey. Ooh! They’re starting! Sit, sit.

Liz: Thanks. And, uh... Merry Christmas, Mr. Evans, Mrs. Evans... Isabel.

Mr. Evans: You, too!

Liz squeezed past the Evans family and took a seat beside Isabel, albeit a good distance away from the intimidating blonde. She turned to her left when she heard a gasp come from Mrs. Evans. A large smile spread across her face as she watched Max interact with his family. Her smile grew as he settled down next to her. She turned, craning her neck to look at him.

Liz: (teasingly) I thought you didn’t believe in God.

Max: I believe in you.

He clasped one of her hands between both of his, bringing it toward his lips. Absently, he placed a kiss against the back of her hand. Liz giggled as he grimaced and wiped his mouth against his shoulder.

Max: (mutters) Stupid gloves.

She held tightly to his hand throughout the service. Frequently, one squeezed the other’s hand. They snuck glances at each other, smiling when caught, but they continued to do so nonetheless. Mrs. Evans watched them out of the corner of her eye, smiling at the look of contentment that Liz Parker brought into her taciturn son’s life. The smile he sent Liz’s way said more than a thousand words ever could.

While the choir sang, Liz turned her face up towards Max. He looked down at her, an eyebrow raised, waiting for her to speak.

Liz: You did a good thing, Max.

Max: It was your idea. I just used -

Liz: Not that. Coming here. You made your mom really happy tonight.

He nodded his head and brought his left arm around her shoulder. He gave it a light squeeze, and Liz snuggled closer against him.

When the service ended, Max remained seated while the congregation straggled out of the makeshift church. Liz started to get up, but she stopped when Max tugged on her hand. She looked at him, puzzled, but gave into the pleading in his gaze. They sat in silence for a few minutes, basking in the comforting feeling that only Christmas seems to evoke. Liz yawned and leaned her head back against Max’s shoulder, and the arm that surrounded her side pulled her closer to him. He closed his eyes and leaned his head against hers.

They were awakened by the bright flash of light that penetrated their closed eyelids. Liz jolted upright, while Max took his time.

Mrs. Evans: Sorry, kids, I couldn’t resist.

Max: Mom?

Mrs. Evans: You were just too cute. I had to take a picture.

Liz: Oh.

Mrs. Evans: I’m sorry I woke you up, but I think you should be getting Liz home.

Max: Right. Umm... I’ll be home in a bit, okay?

Mrs. Evans: Just don’t be too late, Max. Santa’s watching, you know!

Max rolled his eyes and rose from his seat. He turned to face Liz and offered a hand to help her out of the pew. She let out a huff of breath at the gesture.

Liz: I think I can manage, Max.

Max: I know. I just... Never mind.

She pushed herself up, only to stumble as her numb leg collapsed. Max easily steadied her, chuckling softly at her anger.

Liz: Stupid leg.

Max: I happen to like that leg.

Liz: You would. (sighs) I think I’m gonna have to sit down for a minute. My leg’s asleep.

Max: Or I could do this.

Liz: You could do - Max! Put me down!

Max swung her small body up into his arms, laughing at her mild protestations. Despite her words, Liz settled against him rather comfortably.

Liz: I’m serious, Max. Max! Put me down!

He stopped suddenly, making Liz think that he was about to deposit her on the ground once again. However, he merely stood still, a wicked grin on his face.

Liz: Max! What are you doing?!

Max: Smile!

Liz pulled her face out of his neck just in time to see the flash go off as Mrs. Evans snapped their picture. She groaned and buried her face against Max’s chest. The deep sound of his laughter rumbled through his body, forcing Liz to smile at his happiness.

Liz: (groans) Just take me home, Max.