Roswell Fanatics

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Title: The Promise

Author: googi

Rating: Adult/Mature

Disclaimer: The characters of "Roswell" belong to Jason Katims, Melinda Metz, WB, and UPN. They are not mine and no infringement is intended."

Summary: Liz and Max met in college and fell in Love right away. Max comes from a wealthy family and his family doesn’t approve of his relationship with Liz. What would happen when destiny got in their way?

Author's Note: This is my first fic so please don’t be too harsh on me. The idea came to me from a book that I read a long time ago by Danielle Steele. The basic idea came from thar book but the way that I guide the characters is different from the book. So, to make it clear I’m not trying in any way to plagiarize it. I hope that you like this story. Feed back is more than welcome. So enjoy.
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Six years ago…

Come on Liz. We are going to be late for class.

I’m coming. I’m looking for my art book. I don’t know where I left if last night.

I saw it by the night stand next to the bed.

Thanks.

Come on.

What will I do without you?

Hum, I don’t think I care. You have me now and you’ll always have, so we don’t have to worry about that happening.

I love you.

I love you too. Now let’s get out of here before I take you back to bed and keep you there hostage for the rest of your life.

You wish.

Max met Liz the first day he came to Harvard. Since he first laid eyes on her he knew she was the girl for him. Liz felt the same way about him, one look at him and she was lost. He try really hard to get Liz to go out with him but she refused him several times because she was afraid that he was just trying to use her and then dump her, but as time went by the more she learned about him the more in love she fell for him.

On their first Christmas together Max took Liz to meet his parents because he wanted his family to meet the love of his life and wanted to share with them his happiness. He was completely shocked by the way his parents reacted towards her. After that day Max distance himself form them and Liz became his world. They did everything together and life couldn’t be better for both of them.

Two years later…

They were going to celebrate their second anniversary and Max was going to propose to Liz. He was trying really hard to make everything perfect for that day. He couldn’t wait to see her face when propose and little that he knew that destiny had other plans for them. That on their special day their lives will take a different path.

Hello?

Hi baby.

Hey, where are you?

I’m going to my last class and then I have to meet Alex at the library.

At what time you are going to be home?

I’ think I’ll be home around seven.

Okay. I’ll have diner ready.

You are the best.

I know.

So, where are you taking me tomorrow?

It’s a surprise.

Oh come on Max, can you a least give me a hint?

NOPE! And can you stop trying. I’m not going to tell you. I want to see your beautiful face light up tomorrow when we go on our date.

Please, come on just a hint. I’ll make it worth while…

You are an evil woman and I’m not going to cave to your sexual advances. You will have to be a good girl and wait until tomorrow.

All right! Well baby I have to go. I just wanted to hear your voice and tell you that I love you and that I miss you.

I love you too sweetheart. I’ll see you soon.

Bye.

Ms. Parker… Ms. Parker!

Ah… sorry

Is everything all right?

Yes, perfect.

Ms. Parker, you are my best student and I don’t want to see you slip in it.

Sorry about today. I’m just a little tired and couldn’t concentrate in class but it won’t happen again.

I hope so. See you in our next class.

I’ll see you Monday.

Good bye Ms. Parker.

She was on cloud nine all day. She was thinking at how perfect her life was since Max came into her life. Was it possible for one human being to be this happy? I guess the answer was right in front of her. She thank God every day because her life was amazing. Sometimes in days like today she was afraid that she was going to open her eyes and find out that everything was a dream.

Hey, what happened? You are late.

Sorry Alex, my professor wanted to talk to me after class.

You… Elizabeth Parker, problems in class? Is it the end of the world and nobody told me?

Shut up! Nah, it was my fault actually. I was so lost in my thoughts that I didn’t paid any attention to class.

Oh, I see. What were you thinking about?

Everything… can I ask you something?

Sure.

Do you think is wrong to be completely happy?

What?

I’m serious. Well, do you?

What’s really going on in that pretty little head of yours?

I don’t know, I was just thinking about how happy I am and how perfect my life is and I’m just afraid that something is going to happen and…

And what?

And take it all away from me.

Liz, you are being ridiculous. You have nothing to fear. You deserve to be happy. You are a good person ad you have worked really hard for it. You deserve to be happy and nobody is going to take that away from you.

I guess my greatest accomplishment in this life was to find Max. I’m so happy with him Alex. He makes me feel so loved and special. I guess I’m just afraid that I can loose him.

See Liz, now you’ve been ridiculous. You will never loose Max. He loves you so much. I mean, sometimes it makes me even sick to see the way he looks at you… it’s ew….

Alex…

Kidding, Liz seriously, Max really loves you as much as you love him. I can see that the two of you are going to be together forever. I mean you guys can even stay from each other for long periods of time.

I know, I guess I’m just been stupid.

Yes you are. So let’s forget about all this nonsense and tell me, did you finish Max’s anniversary present?

Yep. I hope he likes it.

Girlfriend, he will love it. You can give the guy a rock in a box and he will love it.

Shut up!

It’s the truth, come on let’s face it, the guy worships the ground that you walk on.

Anyway, have you heard from Isabel?

Yeah, she’s coming to visit tomorrow.

I guess I’m not going to be the only one celebrating tomorrow huh?

What can I say, I’m irresistible.

Come on, let’s get some study. I want to be home by seven, I promise Max.

Liz spent the next three hours at the library with Alex studying for their final exams that were coming in the next week. Liz loved Alex. She met him the first day that she came to Harvard and they got along right from the first moment. When Max met Alex he was a little jealous of the kind of relationship that Liz had with him but once he spent more time with the both of them together he saw the brotherly protective way that Alex had over Liz that all his thoughts went away. Now all four of them were inseparable, yes the four of them because Maria Liz’s best, friend followed her to Boston. She is not a student there but she managed to get in to a college near by and was getting her degree in business administration. Maria and Liz had been friend since they were little and when Liz was accepted in Harvard Maria told her that she was still coming to Boston with her and she was never going to leave her alone. The four of them try to at least get together once a week to have diner and catch up on each other’s lives. Like Liz said her life was just perfect.

Max, I’m home!

I’m in the kitchen.

Hum… smells good. What are we eating?

Steak, bake potatoes and salad.

Yum! and for desert?

We’ll see about that later.

I like that.

So, how was your study session with Alex?

It was good. I think I’m going to nail my finals.

Good. Why don’t you go and take a shower while I finish here?

You’re not taking a shower with me?

Nope. Already took one, besides, if I do, you know very well that it’s not going to be a quick shower.

You’re no fun!

I’ll show you fun later. Now go take a quick shower so we can eat and I can give you your desert.

Okay… okay, I’m going.

Before she went into the shower she gave Max a short but passionate kiss and left for the shower leaving him gasping for air.

She is going to be the death of me… but what a way to go.

Fifteen minutes later she came out to the kitchen wearing just underwear and a very short t-shirt.

I’m clean now, can we eat?

Max turned to look at her and almost dropped that plate that he had in his hands.

Are you okay?

You’re behaving like a really bad girl aren’t you?

I don’t know what you are talking about?

How I’m I suppose to concentrate and eat diner with you looking like that?

I just wanted to be comfortable.

Really?

Really!

Okay. He put the plate on the table and started to take his clothes off…

What are you doing?

Getting comfortable too, you know two can play this game.

O…okay. He pulled his sweat pants down leaving himself with just his silk boxer shorts…

There… now I’m comfortable too. Let’s eat.

They sat at the small diner table and eat, fed each other and talked about everything and nothing but it didn’t matter to either one of them because at that moment been together sharing a simple moment like that was more than enough.

After they ate they decided to watch a movie before going to bed.

Diner was delicious. Thank you.

My pleasure.

By the time the movie started Liz notice that Max was tired.

You want to skip the movie and go to bed? You look tired.

I’m sorry sweetheart it’s been a long day.

Hey, it’s okay. We’ll watch the movie some other time. Come on let’s go to bed.

Okay.

So, what are we doing tomorrow?

Give it up. You never quit do you?

Can’t blame a girl for trying.

I guess not. The only thing that I can tell you is that it’s going to be very special.

Max, every day with you is special.

Nice try, but tomorrow is going to be extra special I promise.

Is there anything that I can do to persuade you?

Don’t think so.

Liz got out of bed and started removing her little t-shirt exposing her perky breasts to him. He was looking at her and he was getting hard as hell by just watching.

Are you sure that there is nothing I can do to persuade you?

Liz, baby what are you doing?

Just getting more “comfy” to go to bed.

Sweetheart, what don’t you come over here?

In a minute, I’m still over dressed.

He wanted her so much right now that it hurts. He was getting impatient and he knew that she was in a playing mood. He was going to make her pay for that but right now he just wanted her in bed with him.

He saw her bend over and starting to remove the little piece of underwear that she was wearing and started to breathe hard. It was like she was trying to make him come without even touching her but what she did next almost did…

Hum… that’s much better. She started to run her hand all over her body touching every part of it and that did if for him. He got up and went to her.

Are you trying to kill me woman…

Never.

Have I told you today how much I love you?

Hum… I think so, but just in case why don’t you tell me again.

I love you Liz. I love you with all my heart and soul.

And I love you too Max… so much.

I want you baby. Come to bed with me and let me show you how much I really love every inch of you.

They made love for what it seems hours. They couldn’t stop touching each other it was like they needed each other to breathe.
Mmm… that was amazing.

You are amazing.

I still can believe that it’s been two years.

Why?

Because I never thought that a person could be this happy for so long.

What do you mean?

What I mean is… Max since the first day that you came into my live I’ve been so happy. Not a day goes by that you have not made me happy and I’m scared.

Scared of what baby?

Of waking up one day and not have you in my life.

Max turned her to look at him…Hey, look at me. You don’t have to be scared. I’m not going anywhere. I’m not going anywhere. I’ll always be here… with you. I’ll never leave you.

I know. I’m sorry. I’m just being silly. It’s just that I love you so much Max.

And I love you Live. I love you more than words can say. Don’t you ever forget that, okay… never.

Okay.

How about, I made you a promise to you.

What promise?

I promise I’ll never to say goodbye to you.

What do you mean?

It means that since we are going to always be together, I won’t ever have to say goodbye to you… ever.

Oh Max… I make you the same promise. I Elizabeth Parker promise to never say goodbye to you.

Are you feeling better now?

Much better, thank you.

Now let’s get some sleep, because tomorrow it’s going to be extra special. Goodnight sweetheart, I love you.

I love you too. Goodnight.

That night Liz had really bad dreams, dreams in which she was lost and Max couldn’t’ find her. By the time morning came she was really exhausted.

Wake up sleepy head.

Five more minutes, please.

Come on baby, you are going to be late for class.

I don’t have class today.

What do you mean you don’t have class today?

I forgot to tell you that Professor Baldwin gave us the day. He has some seminar that he had to attend to.

I see, so what are you planning on doing today?

Well, first I’m going to sleep some more, second I’m meeting with Maria and go to spa to get myself beautiful for you tonight.

Oh, I see. Baby, if you get any more beautiful then you will really become an angel. You are just beautiful the way you are right now.

Liar, what about you? What are you doing today?

I have to work this morning and in the afternoon I have only one class after that I’m all yours.

Great, so where are you taking me?

Not again, give it up. Just get yourself ready and pick me up at seven at school.

Okay, now give me a kiss and go before I pull you back in bed.

I love you.

I love you too, never forget that.

How could I. I’ll see you tonight.

Max kissed her one more time before he got out of bed. He then took one last look at her and went to get himself ready to work.

The day went by without any inconvenience for either of them. Liz spent the day at a spa with Maria.

So, where do you think price charming is going to take you tonight?

I don’t know, but I know that it’s going to be fabulous.

I know. You know, sometimes I think that there has to be something wrong with Max.

Why do you say that?

Because chica, the guy it’s just too perfect. No guy is that perfect.

Well, let me tell you, there is nothing wrong with Max, he is just perfect.

I know, just kidding. I only hope that I can find my own perfect guy too.

You will Maria. I know you will.

What do did you get Max?

Nothing special, I make him a pain of our special place.

The cliff?

Yep, I hope that he’ll like it.

How could he not. I mean the place is beautiful not to mention that it is the place where you guys go “frisky” for the first time.

I know. It was the place that he told he that he loves me for the first time.

How romantic.

Yeah. Maria, what time is it?

It’s five o’clock.

Come on, let’s go I still have to go home and get ready for my date with Max.

Girlfriend, every day with Max is a date.

By seven o’clock Max was ready and waiting for Liz to pick him up. He was a little surprised that she wasn’t there when he came out of class. He decided to wait a few minutes before giving her a call. As the minutes went by he was getting a little impatient. It wasn’t like Liz to be late and not let him know so he decided to dial her number and give her a call as he did so he notice that the call wasn’t going through. To him that was strange because in the time they’ve been together whenever he needed to get in touch with her he always did. He was getting a really bad feeling about this but decided to put it aside and run all his options before doing anything drastic. He decided to call Maria since she was spending the day with Liz and to his surprise there was no answer either. This was definitely not looking good. He was getting really impatient now so he decided to go home and see what was wrong.

In another part of town Maria was getting a call…

Hello?

Is this Maria Deluca?

This is she? Who is calling?

I’m calling from Boston Memorial.

What’s wrong?

We have you listed as a contact for a girl that was involved in a car accident.

Can you come to the hospital?

Of course, I’ll be there in a few minutes. Before can Maria ask who the injured person was the nurse hung up.

Once Max made home he noticed that Liz wasn’t there. Now he was really getting frantic he decided to call Alex…

Hello? Alex?

Hey Max. What’s up?

Have you seen Liz?

No, why? Wasn’t she supposed to be with you celebrating?
She never showed up. She never went to pick me up at school and I’m very worried Alex.

Did you try to call Maria?

I did but she’s not answering her phone either. I know that something is wrong Alex. I know that something really bad happened to Liz. It’s not like her to disappear like that.

Max calm down. I’ll be there in ten minutes and I’ll help you find her okay?

Okay, hurry please.

At that precise moment at the hospital…

Hi, I’m Maria Deluca and I received a call saying that somebody was involved in a car accident?

Yes, wait here. The doctor is going to be with you in a moment.

Can you at least tell me who it is?

It’s a girl. I think her name is Elizabeth… Elizabeth Parker

Previously…

Hi, I’m Maria Deluca and I received a call saying that somebody was involved in a car accident?

Yes, wait here. The doctor is going to be with you in a moment.

Can you at least tell me who it is?

It’s a girl. I think her name is Elizabeth… Elizabeth Parker
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Oh God… Oh God… Is she okay? Can I see her?

The doctor is going to be with you soon.

Oh God… This isn’t happening. This isn’t happening. I have to call Max. I got to get Max here. (As she reached for her phone somebody came and stood next to her).

Don’t do that.

What do you mean don’t do that?

Don’t call Max.

Are you crazy? He is probably going out of his mind looking for Liz. He was waiting for her besides, who the hell are you?

Do you value your friend’s life?

What are you talking about? Of course I do.

Then if you want to help save your friend’s life don’t call Max, at least not yet.

You are crazy. Look I don’t know who you are, but you better leave me alone before I call security.

You don’t want to do that. I can help you save your friends life. Just hear me out before you made that call.

What is it that you have to say, and who the hell are you?

First, I’m Phillip Evans. I’m Max’s father. I received a call by mistake a while ago from this hospital. They were looking for my son. They said that and Elizabeth Parker was involved in a car accident and that she was in really bad shape. As soon as I hang up the phone I came here to find out how really bad the accident was. After I spoke to the doctor I realize that I finally got the opportunity that I needed to get Ms. Parker out of my son’s life.

You sick bastard.

I’m sick because I want to protect my son?

Protect him from what?

From a gold digger like Ms. Parker.

You are insane. Liz is not like that.

She may have my son fooled with the innocent girl act, but I know what she is really after.

And what is that?

My son’s fortune.

Your sick bastard, no wonder Max doesn’t want anything to do with you. You only think about your stinking money. What about people’s feelings?

If they were real, I’ll be the first one to support them, but I know Ms. Parker and she is not good for my son.

You’re wrong. Liz and Max love each other. They love each other more than you’ll ever know.

Look Ms. Deluca, we don’t have that much time to argue, here is my proposition to you… I will take care of whatever medical expenses Ms. Parker incur while she is in the hospital and will give you a big amount of money so you can take her away from the country once she is fine.

You are really sick. You are a sick bastard.

Go talk to the doctor and once you do I’ll be here waiting for you.

Ms. Deluca?

Yes, that’s me. How is Liz?

Come with me, let’s have a seat.
Tell me how is she?

Ms Parker suffered severed injuries Ms. Deluca.

How severe?

She has multiple facture in her body, injuries to her head, she will need several plastic surgeries to reconstruct her face, and if she pulls through she will need extensive physical therapy.

Oh God… Oh God…

Right now we have her under and induced coma to help her head injury heal.

Oh God… this is not happening… this is not happening.

We don’t know for sure at this point if she is really going to make it.

You said that she will need plastic surgery.

Yes, Ms. Parker’s face was completely crushed. We don’t know how many surgeries she will need but I’m pretty sure that they are going to be several and she will never look the same again.

Oh my God.

It’s a miracle that she is even alive right now.

I want to see her.

I don’t think that is a good idea right now.

I want to see Liz, please!

Okay then, come with me. You better be prepared for what you are going to see.

Oh my God, chica, what happened to you? You’re not supposed to be here. You’re supposed to be with Max right now… not here. This is so wrong. I’m sorry Lizzie… I’m so sorry!

Phillip came to stand next to her…

Now do you believe me?

What the fuck are you doing here?

We are running out of time Ms. Deluca. Pretty soon my son is going to start looking for her in hospitals and that is not good.

Max needs to be here with her.

Look Ms. Deluca, the life of your friend is in your hands.

The doctors are doing everything they can to save her.

That maybe so, but when you have money they go the extra mile to see that is really done. Your friend here looks like she is going to need all the help that she can get. So what is it going to be? I’ll give you a few minutes to think about it. I’ll be right back.

Maria sat there weeping and trying to decide what was best for her friend. She knew that if she took Evans offer Liz was going to hate her for the rest of her life, but is she didn’t her friend could die.

What should I do Liz?... What?... I don’t know what to do.

All of the sudden the monitors started to go crazy and whole bunch the doctors and nurses came to work on Liz. One of the nurses pulled Maria out of the room and told her to wait for the doctor to come out.

What’s going on? What’s happening to her?

Wait here. The doctor will be with you as soon as your friend is stabilized.

So, Ms. Deluca, have you thought about my offer?

Go to hell!

At Max’s house…

Have you heard from them?

Nothing, I keep calling both of them, but no response.

Have you called the police?

Not yet.

I’ll do it. Wait here.

Okay.

Alex went into the kitchen and called the police giving them the description of both girls and of Liz’s car and when he finished the call and came into the living room Max knew that his worst fears were about to come true.

Alex what is it?

Max I…

Alex, what is it? What happened to Liz?

Apparently she was involved in a car accident and was taken to Boston Memorial.

God… Liz… I have to go… I have to see Liz… I need to be with Liz… She needs me.

Max calm down. I’ll drive you there you are in no condition to drive right now.

Let’s go. I need to see her. I need to be with her.

I know, come on.

At the hospital…

Well Ms. Deluca?

If I take you offer, don’t you think that Max is going to find out and will want to be with Liz no matter what?

That will not happen.

I know Max, and I know that as soon as he finds out the Liz is hurt he will want to be with her no matter what.

Not if he thinks that she is dead.

You really are sick. How can you want to do that to your son. Don’t you know that it will destroy him to loose Liz?

He’ll get over it. Well Ms. Deluca?
What will happen with Liz if I accept your offer?

She will be transferred to the best trauma hospital in the country and she will get all the help that she need, plus some money for her to star over once she is fully recovered, but you have to make sure that once she is completely recovered that she will NOT and I mean NOT try to make any contact with my son. My lawyer is waiting for your decision to help you with Ms. Parker’s paper work. Also he will help you with your documentation. There is also a helicopter waiting to transfer Ms. Parker. I’m just waiting for your decision. What is it going to be?

I only hope that you rot in hell for eternity. I’m going to pray to God every day so he can grant me the with to see you crawling on your hands and knees screaming in pain, because le me tell you Mr. Evans, what you do in this life… you pay in this life.

Spare me the morality speech, what is it going to be?

My answer is yes. I only hope that some day Liz and Max can forgive me for what I’m about to do to them.

I’ll make sure that everything is taken care of. From this day on you and Ms. Parker no longer exist, clear?

Crystal. You are evil. I don’t know how can you live with yourself.

Ms. Deluca?

Yes doctor, how is she?

We almost lost her, but like I said before she is a very strong woman and we were able to stabilize her.

Good to hear. There is a medical chopper waiting to transport Ms. Parker to the airport where a medical plane is waiting to transport her to The Hospital of Special Surgeries in Amarillo, Texas.

I don’t think…

Look doctor, you said that Ms. Parker is going to need a lot of surgeries in order to get better, so Ms. Deluca and I have decided that she will need to go to a place where she can have the best possible care and as a doctor, you can agree with me that The Hospital For Special Surgeries is the best place in the country for Ms. Parker to receive all the care that she needs, right?

Yes, but…

No buts doctor, get her ready to be transported as soon as possible. There is no time to waste.

Ms. Deluca, are you sure that… that this is what you want to do?

She looked a Phillip with all the hate that she had inside her… Yes.

Okay then, she will be ready to be transferred in about fifteen minutes.

Thank you, doctor.

You have no idea how much I hate you right now.

What you feel does not concern me. I’m doing this for my son.

How can you even say that?

Because it’s the truth, that girl took our soon away from us and I’m just getting him back. Anyway Ms. Deluca, my attorney will be traveling with you. He will stay with you until you and Ms. Parker are settled. Let me make this clear once again Ms. Deluca, you are not to contact any of the people here. For them you and Ms. Parker are dead, understood?

Yes.

Once your friend is well you will make sure that she will not contact my son at any time, right?

Yes.

Good.

She is ready.

Well Ms. Deluca, have a nice life.

GO TO HELL!

Liz was moved to the chopper that was waiting for her at the roof of the hospital with Maria and the lawyer by her side. Once inside the chopper Maria took one last look down and hoped that the decision she made today was the right one.

In the lobby of the hospital…

We are looking for Elizabeth Parker.

One moment please.

Please mam, where is she? I need to see her.

I’m looking sir, just give me a minute.

Please I just want to see her.

Max relax, she is looking okay. You’ll see her soon.

I’m sorry to tell you this, but Ms. Parker and her friend both doa.

What do you mean doa?

They both died on arrival.

No, it’s not true. You’re lying. She is not dead. LIZ… Liz, sweetheart, I’m here. Where are you?

Max calm down.

I don’t want to calm down, I need to see Liz. I need to see her. She needs me.

Max…

NO!... Liz… Liz… please baby, where are you. I need you.

Alex was doing his best to try to keep Max under control but he was no match for Max fury and grief…

I need to see her Alex… I want to see her. They’re hiding her from me.

Max, I’m sorry, but she is gone.

No, she is not. She promise… she promise to never say goodbye… she promise!

By now, Max was out of control, Alex couldn’t control him and the nurse called security to help control him. He kept yelling and screaming, asking to see her to talk to her. It took several men to keep him from destroying the whole waiting room. Several doctor and nurses came to see what was going on.

What’s going on here?

This man is out of control.

Let me go… let me go. I have to see her… I have to see Liz… LIZ…LIZ…

They were finally able to take control of him and one of the doctors ordered that he was given a sedative to help him calm down. Once that was done Alex was able to get next to him again.

Alex, help me please, please. Go find her, go find her and tell her that I need her please. I can’t live without her Alex, I just can’t. I’m dying Alex, please go get for me. I need to see her. (By now the sedative was taking effect and he was falling a sleep)… please Alex.

I’ll look for her, but you have to calm down okay.

Promise?

I promise.

It was late that night when Max woke up and opened his eyes. By then, his mother and father were in the room with him…

Max… Max… honey it’s me mom.

Max… are you okay? It’s me Alex.

Max… Max… baby what’s wrong? Phillip go get the doctor… now!

Everybody was looking at him. Max was awake but it was like he wasn’t even there…

Max… sweetie it’s mom. Thank God doctor, I don’t know what’s wrong with him. He opened his eyes a few minutes ago but haven’t said a word or moved at all.

Let me take a look. Wait outside for a few minutes.

Come on Diane… let the doctor do his job.

They all went outside and waited impatiently for the doctor to come out with new of Max’s condition…

Well… what’ s wrong with my son?

Ms. Evans… Mr. Evans, your son is not responding to any kind of stimulus.

What does that mean?

Your son it’s been through a very severe trauma and he is reacting to it by disconnecting himself from reality.

Can you explain?

Your son is hiding inside his mind. He doesn’t want to deal with the pain… the reality. It’s like a defense mechanism. He disconnected himself from the real word in order not to feel the pain.

How long will he be like this?

Honestly Mr. Evans, I don’t know. It could be hours, days, months… even years before he decides to come out of it.

Oh God Phillip. What are we going to do?

What can we do to help him?

We will keep him for a couple of days, while you make arrangements to transfer him to a facility.

What?

Mr. Evans, if your son does not come out of this in a few days, he will need constant care. He won’t be able to talk, move, eat or do anything by himself. He will basically be like he is right now.

No… that can’t be. I will not have my son put in an institution. Phillip, please… I want to take him home.

Okay, we’ll get his room ready and will hire the necessary staff to take care of him at home.

Thank you.

They went inside the room. Max was in the same position that they left him when they went outside. Phillip was looking at him and wondering how could this be happening to his son. He did what he did to help him, so how can God was punish him like that and at that moment Maria’s words came into his mind to hunt him… what you do in this life… you pay in this life. Was this his punishment for trying to save his son? Was this the way his son’s life was going to be from now on.

Several days later Max was transported to his parent’s house where his room was converted into a hospital room full with therapy room, medical equipment and his own private nurse 24/7.

Good morning Michael.

Good morning Ms. Evans.

How is he today? Any change?

No mam, sorry.

I know that he is going to come back to us… I just know it. I guess he is not ready yet.

I agree with you.

Did my husband came to see him today?

Yes, he was here early this morning.

I’ll come back later after you have finished his physical therapy.

Sure. I’ll see you later Ms. Evans.

Bye Michael.

Well Max let’s begin. You know Alex wants to come and visit you but your father wont’ allow it. I keep him posted on your progress. He misses you, you know. Man you got to snap out of it. I know that it’s going to be hard, but you need to wake up and deal with it. Anyway, I guess you’ll wake up when you are ready and don’t worry, I’ll be here with you. We don’t know each other personally yet, bu8t I’m pretty sure that we will be good friends. I mean let’s face it, you are friends with Alex so being my friend is going to be a walk in the park.

Later that night Phillip came to see him before he went to bed and sat next to him. He took a very good look at his son and for the first time in a long time he really saw him. It killed him to know that because of what he did, his son… his only son was in this condition and once again Maria’s hunting words came into his mind. They kept repeating over and over again…

I’m sorry Max… I’m sorry son. I never wanted to hurt you. I swear, I was just trying to protect you. I though I was doing what was right. I’m sorry… I’m sorry…

He sat there and wept. He thought that this was his punishment for what he did but little that he knew that life had something harder for him down the road…

Later that night Phillip came to see him before he went to bed and sat next to him. He took a very good look at his son and for the first time in a long time he really saw him. It killed him to know that because of what he did, his son… his only son was in this condition and once again Maria’s hunting words came into his mind. They kept repeating over and over again…

I’m sorry Max… I’m sorry son. I never wanted to hurt you. I swear, I was just trying to protect you. I though I was doing what was right. I’m sorry… I’m sorry…

He sat there and wept. He thought that this was his punishment for what he did but little that he knew that life had something harder for him down the road…
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Present day…

Come on Claudia. We are going to be late.

I’m coming.

Come on chica, today it’s your last appointment.

I know. I’m coming.

We have to celebrate. We are going to go out and have a nice diner and then we are going to go to a bar and have ourselves of big drink.

Grace… you know that I can’t drink.

I know chica, but you can have a big… big soda.

You know… you are crazy. Come on Dr. Ramirez is probably waiting for us.

Let’s go. The sooner we do this the faster we can go out and celebrate.

At the doctor’s office…

Well Claudia, tell me how are you been feeling?

Great actually.

Good. No headaches?

None.

I can see that the scar from your last surgery healed perfectly. You can hardly see it anymore.

Yes, so what’s next?

For what I can see you are completely fine, but you have to take it easy for a while okay.

I’ve been taking it easy for the last six years doctor.

I know Claudia, but you don’t want to come back here to the hospital do you?

Oh God no.

Like I said, don’t exceed your self for a while. I want you to come and see me at least every six months, okay?

I promise. So can I go now?

Sure.

Well doctor thank you for everything. I don’t know what to say other than thank you.

You’re welcome. Now go before Grace kill me. She is giving me the look again.

What look?

The one that says, shut up. It’s scary really.

Bye doctor Ramirez.

Good by girls.

Claudia and grace were making their way out of Dr. Ramirez’s office when all of the sudden Grace bumped into somebody and almost felt flat on her butt…

Hey, watch where you are going buster.

Me, you where the one that was distracted and talking. You are very lucky that I grabbed you before you hit your butt on the floor.

Look, I’m in a very good mood today and I’m not going to let a neantherthal like you ruin it for me.

Neantherthal, now there is a word you don’t hear every day much less coming out of the mouth of blondie.

Blondie? What do you mean blondie?

If the shoe fits.

Grace, let’s go. I want to get out of here. Look Mr. I’m sorry for whatever but I really want to get out of here.

It’s Michael.

What?

Michael. My name is Michael not mister.

Oh, sorry. I’m Claudia and this is my sister Grace.

It’s nice to meet you Claudia… blondie…

You know what let’s go before I kill him.

It was nice to meet you Michael. Bye.

Michael stayed there looking at both girls leaving and once they were out of his view he made his way to Jesse’s office.

Michael… It’s nice to see you again.

Hey man. How is it going?

Great, I wasn’t expecting you until next week.

I know, but I came earlier to look for a place to live, besides my friend Max is also coming to live here to, so the sooner I find a place the more time to have fun I will have.

Max? the name sounds familiar.

I told you about him. I met him four years ago when I went to take care of him.

Oh yes, I remember. Big catatonia case, the one with the dead girlfriend…

Yep. He still dealing with it but it’s getting better. We hope that with the new scenery… well, we’ll see.

I know what you mean.

Hey Jesse, who were the girls that were here?

Girls?

Yes, the brunette and the blonde?

Ah, you mean Claudia and Grace…

Yes, those two. Are they patients of yours?

Actually Claudia was.

Was?

Yes, today was her last regular visit. I’ve been treating her for the last four years.

Wow, four years. What was wrong with her? What happened?

Everything, it was a car accident. It’s even a miracle that she is even alive.

Wow, she doesn’t even look like she’s been through four years of medical treatment.

Yes, unbelievable. Her sister Grace it’s been with her every step of the way. I mean she never left her side for a single day.

Amazing.

Why are you asking?

No reason.

I know you Michael. Don’t tell me that Grace already got to you?

Well, I just bumped into her and went al feisty on me, and you know how I love feisty woman.

I see.

She seems like she is a firecracker.

That she is. Well do you came here to talk about Grace or about your new job?

Hey, can a guy be civil first?

Yeah, sure.

About my job, when do I start?

Two weeks from now.

Good. I hope that I’m settled by then.

Okay, so do you want to go and grab something to eat?

Sure, but you are paying since you are inviting.

Come on let’s go. I’m starving.

Me too.

-----------------------------------------
Would you just let it go Grace.

What? No. I can’t believe that you are taking his side.

I’m not taking his side Grace. You were not looking where you were going and bumped into the guy.

See, you are taking his side.

You like the guy.

I do not.

Do to.

Do not.

Okay, so if you don’t like him you don’t mind if I go out with him is we see him again, do you?

Hey, what kind of a sister are you? Stay away from my man…

Hah, I knew it. You liked him.

He was cute, wasn’t he?

Yes Grace very cute.

So what will you do if you see him again?

I don’t know. Cut it out okay, we are not going to see him again.

I wouldn’t be so sure.

What do you mean?

He’s just walked into this restaurant with Dr. Ramirez and is walking this way.

You’re lying.

Nope.

You are just making me look, but I’m not going to give you the satisfaction.

So we meet again… Claudia… Blondie…

Look can you just cut out with the blondie…

How could I, you called me Neanderthal…

Hey Claudia…

Hey Dr. Ramirez.

Please tell me that this guy is not your friend?

Sorry Grace, but he is.

I can see that you have no standarts when it comes to your personal life.

Hey, easy blondie…I’m still here.
Like I care.

Why don’t you guys join us for diner.

What, are you crazy Claudia, I don’t even believe this guy has any manners.

Hey, blondie. Yes I do and I can teach you some if you let me.

For what I can see Grace wouldn’t be happy if we stay…

You got that right Jesse, she can’t handle real people and real conversation.

That’s it sit down, both of you. Let’s see who is not able to handle people and real conversation.

That’s what I like in a woman, I love them feisty.

Who said that I’m your woman?

Guys, can we take a break here and order something to eat, I’m starving.

I’m sorry Claudia.

It’s okay. What are you going to order?

The usual, you?

Same. How about you Dr. Ramirez?

Claudia, can you call me Jesse, I’m not your doctor anymore.

Okay Jesse, what are you going to eat?

Was that so hard?

No, I guess not.

Once they all ordered they sat pretty much comfortable and having a good time.

So, Michael, what do you do?

I’m a physical therapist.

Really, wow you could’ve been my therapist.

I guess, but apparently it wasn’t meant to be.

Where are you from?

I’m from New Mexico but I was in Boston for the last four years.

Boston I would really like to go there. For some reason since I woke up from my coma I have this idea to go there.

Claudia, let’s not talk about that now, okay sweetie.

Why not, it’s not a big deal.

It’s okay Michael. It’s just a crazy idea that popped into my head when I woke up.

You see Michael, before the accident Claudia wanted to Harvard and my guess is that when she woke up she still had that idea in her mind.

It could be.

Anyway, tell us about where in New Mexico did you come from?

Roswell, alien capital of the world.

You kidding right?

Nope. It’s true.

Wow, so is it like people said it is? You know all alien themed?

Yep. All alien.

So, spaceboy why did you became a physical therapist?

Spaceboy?

Well, coming from Roswell I didn’t think you mind me calling you that besides you shouldn’t get upset, you are calling me blondie and it only seems fair that you too get a nickname.

I see… we are in a nickname stage now.


Are you going to answer my question?

I became a therapist because I like to help people.

You don’t strike me as the kind of person that like to help people.

Why is that? You don’t even really know me.

True, but a guy that starts a fight with a girl the first day he met her…

I didn’t start a fight with you.

Really… could’ve fooled me.

Grace, please don’t start again.

I’m not starting anything.

Grace, how is the gallery coming along?

It’s going to be great Jesse. The opening is schedule for a month from now. You guys should come. We are going to have some of Claudia’s work displayed there together with some other new young artists.

I’ll be there. How about you Michael?

Sure. So you are an artist Claudia?

Grace seems to think so.

I know so. She is brilliant. I’m very proud of her. You guys are going to be very impressed with the pieces that I picked for the show. They are amazing.

Now I really want to be there. I have a friend that loves art. He has this fascination with it.

You should invite him too.

Great, I will tell him as soon as he gets here. He is going to love it.

Who is this friend that loves art so much?

It’s a guy that I was taking care of for almost three years. He is a great guy.
Well, it’s getting late and I have to work tomorrow. Grace, Claudia it was great spending time with you. Claudia, remember what I told you.

Yes Jesse I remember.

Well, good night ladies.

I have to go too. He is my ride. I hope that we can see each other again soon.

Here Michael, this is our phone number. Give us a call.

Thanks Claudia. I still don’t have a number here but as soon as I’m settled I will give you a call and give you my number.

Okay. It was great really meeting you girls.

Well Spaceboy, goodnight.

Night Blondie.

A few minutes after they left Claudia and Grace went to a bar to end their night as planned.

Can you believe it Claudia?

What?

Was that freaky or what? What are the odds that we would meet the guy again?

I see what you mean. Maybe it was meant to be. Maybe he is your prince charming.

More like my nightmare in the making.

Would you just stop it. You like the guy… why fight him.

I don’t know, I guess I’m just afraid to get hurt. I haven’t been in a relationship in so long…

I’m sorry.

Sorry for what?

It’s my fault.

What is your fault?

The fact that you haven’t had a relationship in so long.

Claudia, don’t you ever say that again. You are my sister and nobody in this world is more important that you. I would do it all over again if I have to. You would do the same for me if it was the other way around. So don’t you dare apologize to me again.

I know, it’s just I don’t even remember how I was before the accident. How do I even know if I was a good person before.

Claudia, sweetie I know that you don’t remember but take my word for it, you have always been a good person. You always put your family and friends first. What reason would I have to lie to you. Chica, you are the best sister that anyone could’ve ever ask for. Now get those stupid ideas out of your pretty little head and let’s finish celebrating because after today, no more hospitals for you or me.

I love you Grace.

I love you too chica.

Boston, MA…

Honey where are you?

I’m in the closet mom.

There you are?

What do you want mom?

I wanted to check with you if you wanted to have diner with me and your father in his room. I know that he will love to see you.

Sure, I’ll be there in a few minutes. I was just looking for some stuff that I’m going to take with me.

When are you leaving?

My flight leaves Friday.

Max, you have to tell your father.

I know mom, it’s just that I don’t know how he is going to react.

He’ll get upset, but he’ll get over it.

I know, it’s just that I don’t want to have a confrontation with him again.

I know sweetie, but the longer you postpone this, the harder is going to be.

I know, I’ll tell him after diner.

Great. I’ll see you there in fifteen minutes.

Over the past four years, Phillip Evans health had been deteriorating greatly. Recently he had a minor stroke and the doctor recommended that he rested for a few weeks at home.

After diner Max got the nerve and spoke to his father.

Your mother told me that you wanted to talk to me.

Yes.

What is it?

Dad, I’ve decided to move out.

What?

Yes, I already made plans and I’m moving out with a friend.

With a friend?... Where?

I’m moving to Texas… Amarillo, Texas.

Previously…

Over the past four years, Phillip Evans health had been deteriorating greatly. Recently he had a minor stroke and the doctor recommended that he rested for a few weeks at home.

After diner Max got the nerve and spoke to his father.

Your mother told me that you wanted to talk to me.

Yes.

What is it?

Dad, I’ve decided to move out.

What?

Yes, I already made plans and I’m moving out with a friend.

With a friend?... Where?

I’m moving to Texas… Amarillo, Texas.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You’re moving where?

I’m moving to Texas with Michael.

I forbid you.

Dad, I’m not asking for your permission. I’m just telling you.

Over my dead body you are moving over there.

Dad, it’s been already decided. I’m not going to change my mind. I’m old enough to make my own decisions and right now this is what I want to do. I need to get out of Boston. You don’t understand what is like for me here.

What are you talking about?

Dad everything about this place reminds me of her. Everywhere I go I see her and I just can’t take it anymore. I need to get out of here or I’ll go crazy.

But why Texas Max? You can go somewhere else… it doesn’t have to be there.

Dad you are right but I want to be with my friend. Michael had helped me a lot. He understands what I’m going through and it’s because of him that I’m better. I feel safe with him around me.

Max, I can bring him back if that is what you want but you don’t have to move there.

Dad please, I don’t want to argue with you. It’s already been decided and I just wanted you to hear it from me. I’m leaving Friday.

Max, think about this. You don’t have to go there. You can go to any other part in the world that you want. How about you go for a few months to Europe… Huh? I can have everything ready for you in a few days…

No dad. It’s time that I start to live my own life. I already enrolled in the university there so I can finish my career. I’m not changing my plans.

Son, I’m begging you don’t go to Texas.

Why? Give me one good reason and maybe I’ll consider it.

I…

I thought so. I’m tired dad… I’m going to bed. Goodnight.

We’ll talk more about this tomorrow.

No dad, we won’t. Night!

After Max left his room Phillip sat there thinking and what he was going to do about this. He needed to get in touch with his attorney… he needed to find out where Liz & Maria were and how to prevent for them to encounter their son. Phillip picked up the phone and called his attorney and told him to meet him in his home ASAP.

Mr. Evans… Mr. Harding is here to see you.

Have him come in.

Hi Phillip, who are you feeling?

Better, Ed I need your help.

If I can help you, sure.

You remember the job you did for me four years ago?

Yes, your son’s girlfriend?

Yes, do you know where they are right now?

I kept track of them for the first two years but after that it is like they disappeared from the face of the earth.

What do you mean?

Well, I did what you told me and changed all their paper and they where like that for the first two years… after that… one day I called the hospital and they told me that nobody by those names where there anymore. I try tracking them… but I couldn’t find them.

So it’s possible that they left the country…

To be honest Phillip I don’t know. At that time I sent a private investigator to track them but he couldn’t find them at all.

What were the names that they were going by at that time?

I think it was Marie and Serena Valenti.

Ed, I need you to track them down. I need to find out where they are for sure.

What’s going on Phillip? Why do you want to find them now?

My son wants to move out.

So, what’s the problem?

He wants to move to Texas… Amarillo, Texas.

Oh… I see.

I can risk my son finding them. I can’t risk that.

I’ll see what I can do.

Thank you.
Anything else I can do for you?

Yes, I want you to hire somebody to follow my son while he is in Texas. I want to know who he talks to… where he goes… you know at least until we can be sure that they are not in Texas.

Sure, consider it done.

Thanks Ed and you know… nobody can know about this.

Of course, you don’t even have to tell me.


That night Grace and Claudia made it home and Claudia was so tired that she went straight to bed. Grace poured a glass of wine and sat in her balcony thinking about the events of the last four years…

Four years ago…

Ms. Deluca I need you to meet with me tomorrow so we can put all the paper work together for you and Ms. Parker.

I don’t understand how can you help Mr. Evans do this. Don’t you guys have any feelings at all?

Look Ms. Deluca, I’m just doing my job.

Sure you are. Where do you want to meet?

You can meet me at the cafeteria of the hospital. I know you don’t want to be far from your friend.

Okay. I’ll meet you there at eleven.

I’ll be there.

The next day Maria met with Mr. Harding to finalize the details of the deal…

Ms. Deluca I need you to give the names that you are your friend are going to be using from now on?

Is it going to be that easy to change our names?

You’ll be surprised what you can do with money Ms. Deluca?

I’m starting to see that. Liz will go by the name Serena and I will be Marie.

And the last name…

Valenti… Serena & Marie Valenti.

I see, you are going to be related.

Thanks to you people from now on Liz and I only have each other so I don’t see why can’t we be sisters in name.

Okay… a bank account will be opened in both your names with enough money.

How much money? How much money does my life and the life of my friend is worth?

I have instructions to deposit four million dollars in that bank account. Mr. Evans knows how expensive Ms. Parker’s medical bills are going to run and he wants you and Ms. Parker to have the money to pay them and not to have to worry about that.

How considerate of him.

After Maria finished with Mr. Harding she went back to Liz who was still in a coma. As the days went by Maria was loosing hope that her friend was ever going to wake up.

The days became weeks… the weeks became months and suddenly one day Liz woke up from her coma…

Where I’m I?

Liz?

Where I’m I?... Who are you?

Liz… it’s me… Maria.

Maria?... What’s my name?... Where I’m I? Why can’t I move?

Liz sweetie calm down okay… I’m going to get the doctor.

After Liz woke up the doctor explained to Maria that in Liz’ case after the severe injury that she sustained it was very possible that she would’ve woken up with amnesia. Maria thought at that time that it was a blessing because she didn’t have the heart to tell her what she did in order to keep her alive.

Liz spent most of the time after that in physical therapy and going through several and very painful plastic surgeries in order to reconstruct her face. By the time that was over and done Liz didn’t look the same. They made her look normal but Liz’ old face was nothing more than a memory for those who knew her. Sometimes at night Maria just looked at her friend and it broke her heart because she knew that her friend… her sister was happy in her old life and now it was uncertain what was going to happen with her life.

Two years after the accident the doctors told Maria that they could leave the hospital but that Liz would have to come at least three days a week for therapy and any other procedure that needed to be done.

Maria in those days found out that Mr. Evans had been keeping track of them and she decided that she was going to put an end to it. He wanted them out of their lives and she was going to do it her own way. She was not going to live her live being watch at… before she left the hospital she spoke to the doctors and explained to them the situation and told them that once Liz and her left the hospital they were going to change their names. By all accounts in the hospital they were Marie and Serena Valenti but once they left the hospital they were going to be two new different people. It took Maria a lot of patience and love to convince Liz of it but in the end she agreed.

Maria bought an apartment near the hospital and got herself a decent attorney and got their names changed. They left extrict instructions at the hospital not disclose their where about to nobody. And that is how they started their new life. While Liz was getting herself better Maria took some of the money and went back to school to finish her business courses. Once she finished she then decided that she needed to start doing something to support themselves. She found a job at a big gallery. There she learned all she needed to know and decided to move on her own and open her own gallery. She promised herself that she would work hard and save the money so she could return Mr. Evans the money that he gave them. She refuse to live the rest of her life owing this man anything and even if it was the last thing that she did in this life she would give him his money back. That she promised herself.

Present time…

She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn’t hear Liz coming next to her…

What are you doing up?

Nightmares...

Want to talk about it?

I just keep seeing this guy in my dreams Grace. I mean I see him but I can’t see his face. It’s like he is looking for me… but when he is almost reaching me I wake up.

Anything else about the dream…

Not really, why do I keep dreaming the same dream over and over again? I don’t understand.

I don’t know.

Why are you here so late?

Couldn’t sleep…

Is there something on your mind?

Nah! I’m just too happy to sleep.

Happy, about what?

Everything… I mean, you don’t have to go back to the hospital, the gallery is going to be opening in a month and finally I met a guy that can match me even thought I don’t know if it’s going to work.

I’m so happy for you Grace. You are the best sister a girl can have and you deserve all the happiness in the world.

You too sweetie… you too will find your prince charming one day.

You think so?

I know so. Claudia…

Yeah?

You know I love you… right?

Of course, and I love you too.

Claudia…

What?

Never mind. Tomorrow is going to be a long day and we need to go to bed.

Is there anything you want to talk to me about it?

No. Don’t worry. Come on let’s go to bed.

The next few days were very hectic for both of them. Grace had diner with Michael Thursday night and to her surprise she had a great time. Claudia was also busy finishing a special paint for the exhibition. Claudia told Grace that it was so special that she will not even going to let her see it until the night of the exhibition. By Friday night Michael called Grace and told her that for the next few days he was going to be busy showing his friend the town and that he was going to try to see her the following week.

So, what do you think?

Not bad Michael.

What do you want to do on your first night here?

Actually I’m really tired. How about we ordered a pizza or something and you tell me what had you been up too for the last two weeks?

Sounds good!

Half an hour latter they were drinking beer and eating pizza…

When do you start working?

I’ll start next week. You got to meet my friend Jesse.

Sure. What else have you been up to?

I met a girl.

Really, she must be really special because I know you and you are not the kind of guy to get excited by talking about a girl.

Yes she is very special. She is infuriating… annoying… a firecracker… and on top of that she is beautiful.

Wow, she is something, huh!

Yeah.

Where did you meet her?

She was coming out of Jesse’s office talking to her sister when she bumped into me.

Is she a patient of Jesse’s?

No her sister. Apparently she was in a very bad accident several years ago.

Is she okay now?

If you see her you would’ve never guess, for what Grace tells me she almost didn’t make it.

Wow.

Yeah. They live together and they don’t have any other relatives.

That must be hard.

I can’t wait for you to meet her. I know you are going to like her.

I think so too for what you are telling me.

Oh, I forgot to tell you they invited us to the opening of their new gallery two weeks.

That’s nice of her. You know to invite me… since she doesn’t even know me.

Yeah I know but I told her that I had a friend that loves art.

Thanks Michael. I’ll love to see their art work.

Great, so I guess you will meet them then.

I guess.

So how is Alex?

Good. Alex and Isabel are planning their wedding.

When did this happen? I mean I saw the guy before I left and he didn’t mentioned anything to me.

They just decided it last week. They are going to get married in six months.

Wow… I can’t believe it… Alex is getting married.


By the end of the following week Grace and Claudia had almost everything ready for the opening…

Have you heard from Michael?

Yes, he called me last night. He is taking me to diner tonight.

That’s great.

Any plans for today?

I was thinking of maybe going to register for some art classes.

I think that is a great idea.

Really, I’ve been thinking about it for a while now.

Not that I think that you need those classes, because I think you are very talented without them, but if it makes you happy then go for it.

I’m going to see what they have to offer, if I like what they have then I will enrolled in some, what do you think?

I told you, I think it’s a great idea and that is what you really want to do you know that I got your back.

Grace, can I ask you a question?

Sure, what is it?

Who is Alex?

Alex?

Yes… I saw him in my dreams and for some reason it seems like I knew him… did I?

Well…

Grace, please I need to know. You know that I don’t remember much of our past life, but I need to know if what I think it’s true… did we knew a guy named Alex?

Yes. When we were younger we knew a guy named Alex.

Then that means that what I’ve been thinking it’s true.

What?

That I’m starting to remember things about me… the person I was before the accident.

Oh sweetie…

Why don’t you look happy about it?

Oh chica… of course I’m happy, it’s just that I don’t want you to get your hopes high.

I know it’s not much, but to me this is big. I mean I finally remember somebody from my life before the accident.

Okay.

Was Alex my friend… I mean our friend.

Yes he was.

A close friend?

Yes.

Then tell me Grace… why haven’t I seen him after the accident? Why didn’t you keep in touch with him after my accident? I mean if he was such a good friend as you said… then what happened? Ever since I came out of the coma it’s only been you and me… what kind of life did we really lived before my accident?

Claudia… I…

Please Grace tell me… please.

Claudia… I… do you trust me?

What?

Do you trust me?

Of course, why shouldn’t I. You are my sister. Why are you asking me that?

Because I need you to trust me right now, Claudia I don’t want you to suffer ever again… you’ve been through so much and it will kill me to see you in pain again. Trust me when I tell you that you don’t need to know about our past life. Believe me when I tell you that everything… everything that I’ve done since your accident I’ve done for you. I love you that much. So please, don’t ask me to tell you things that are going to break your heart, please. (By now Grace was sobbing)

I know that you want to protect me Grace, but sooner or later I will need to know about my past. With each day that passes I feel like I need to know… it’s like my mind it’s trying to tell me something but I don’t know what it is or how to open my mind to let it out.

I know sweetie… I know… and I promise that I will tell you, but now is not the right time.

Okay, I will let it go for now, but I want you to promise me something.

Anything…

I want you to promise me that the next time that I remember something about my past… that then it will be the time for you to tell me what I need to know.

Claudia…

Promise me.

Okay… I promise.

Claudia left Grace and went to her house and closed herself in her room. She took the piece of cloth that was covering the paint that she was making for the gallery opening and took at good look at it. The more she looked at it the more she knew that she knew the place that she was painting. She only had seen the place in her dreams… but deep down she knew that at one point in her life she had been to that place… when or with whom she didn’t know… but deep down she knew it was true.

She took her brush and put the final touches in the paint and put her signature in it.

Beautiful… now I only need a title for you. I know… I know what it should be… Your title will be … “The Cliff”.

To all of you girls...thank you for your feed back...

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martine

Here is another chapter... enjoy and let me know what you think
Previously…

Claudia left Grace and went to her house and closed herself in her room. She took the piece of cloth that was covering the paint that she was making for the gallery opening and took at good look at it. The more she looked at it the more she knew that she knew the place that she was painting. She only had seen the place in her dreams… but deep down she knew that at one point in her life she had been to that place… when or with whom she didn’t know… but deep down she knew it was true.

She took her brush and put the final touches in the paint and put her signature in it.

Beautiful… now I only need a title for you. I know… I know what it should be… Your title will be … “The Cliff”.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The day of the opening finally came and Grace woke up with a start. She wanted to make sure that everything was in place. She decided to go and take a shower before walking Claudia up…

NOOOOOOOO…

She came running with from the bathroom to find that Claudia was still a sleep and having a nightmare…

Sweetie… come on wake up. Wake up.

Oh Maria… it was horrible.

What did you just called me?

Maria, why?

Claudia honey… my name is Grace.

Huh? I don’t understand why I’m I calling you Maria. What’s going on? Why when I called you Maria the name so familiar? Why?

Chica…

I guess it’s time for you to tell me.

Honey, we don’t have time for this. I promise I tell you everything, but today is the opening and we have so much to do…

I don’t care. You promise me and I think I deserve to know, please. I need to know. My dreams are getting worst. I just need to understand.

I know… I know… I’m just so afraid.

Afraid? Of what?

I’m afraid that after I tell you everything you will hate…

I can never hate you Maria… never.

I’m not so sure about that.

Then tell me. Let me be the judge of that.

Okay, just give me a minute. I’m going to call Serena to take care of everything and we’ll sit and talk okay. Why don’t you just get up and wait for me in the living room. I’ll be there in a few minutes.

Okay.

Ten minutes later Maria came outside and sat next to Liz…

So, tell me.

First, I want you to listen to me and don’t ask questions until I finish okay?

Okay, go ahead…

Four years ago you had an accident. To any other person it would’ve been just that an accident, but in your case the circumstances were different. At that time in your life you were dating Max… Max Evans. He was your other half. The relationship that you had was the kind of relationship that every person dream of having. You two were so happy and everything was going so well between the two of you. You were so happy Liz… yes you name is Liz… Elizabeth Claudia Parker. To those close to you… you were just Liz.

The day you had the accident was the day that you and Max were supposed to celebrate you second anniversary together. You guys had planned for everything to be perfect. You were on your way to pick up Max when the accident happened.

I received a call from the hospital telling me that somebody had an accident and that my number was in your personal effect. I went to the hospital and while I was waiting for the doctor to come and talk to me about you somebody approached me…

Who?

Phillip… Phillip Evans… Max’s father. At first I was a little shocked because I mean I knew the guy didn’t like you at all, but when he started talking to me I knew that he was bad news. He told me that he was willing to help you get better if I agree to certain conditions. He started telling me how bad you were and I couldn’t believe him… I told him that he was crazy but then doctor came and told me the severity of your injuries and I just didn’t know what to do.

Phillip kept pressuring me to take his deal when all of the sudden you went into cardiac arrest and all hell broke loose and when they stabilize you he ask me if I was going to take his deal and… I did.

What was the deal?

He will pay for the best medical treatment available for you if I agree with him to keep you out of his son’s life.

I swear Liz, I didn’t want to do it. I was so afraid that you were going to die and I was only thinking of you. You are my best friend… you are like my sister and the thought that I could loose you… I … I knew that once you wake up you were going to hate me… but that was a risk that I was willing to take. I couldn’t let you die… I couldn’t… I’m so sorry… please Liz… forgive me… I… Both girls were sobbing so hard that it was hard for them to get any thought straight…

What happened with Max?

I don’t know… I only know that his father was going to tell him that we were both dead…

What?

Yes Liz… to everybody that knew us… we died in that accident.

You too?

Yes. How else were they going to explain me disappearing? I’ve been living with this guilt for so long Liz… sometimes I question myself if I did the right thing… but then I look at you today… and as much as it hurts I know I did, because you are alive and you are well... please Liz… don’t hate me… please…

Maria, I don’t know what I would’ve done if I was in you position, but to be honest… right now I don’t know what to feel… or how I feel… I mean I don’t understand why Max’s father hated me so much… was I bad person?

No sweetie, of course not. He just couldn’t stand the idea that Max preferred you and he had this idea in his mind that you were with Max for his money.

What gave him that impression?

I don’t know, I only know that Max didn’t want to know about his parents after they treated you bad the first time he took you to meet them. After that Max’s world was you.

Max… the name sounds so familiar to me… did we loved each other for real?

Oh Liz… you and Max had this fairy tale love going on that it was unbelievable.

For the first two years after I woke up in the hospital we used to have different names… why did you really changed them?

I found out that Mr. Evans was keeping tabs on us and I decided that I wasn’t going to let him control our lives anymore, so I change our names again and I promised my self that I was going to pay him back even if that was the last thing that I did in this life. I swear to you Liz… I really didn’t want to take his deal… I didn’t but…

It’s okay Maria… I understand… I know that you did it for me and I still don’t know how to feel about that. I mean it’s too much to take in at once. I do appreciate that you were honest with me. Right now I want to be alone if you don’t mind… I want to be alone. I need to think.

Are you sure… I mean I can stay with you. We can talk if you want.

No Maria. I want to be alone, besides… you have to go to the opening of the gallery.

Serena can cover for me… I don’t care about that right now. I just want to make sure that you are okay.

Maria… you got to stop trying to protect me. I can take care of my self. I’m going to be fine. Please go, attend the gallery, I’ll be here when you get back… I promise. I just need to think, please.

Okay but on one condition…

What?

That if you need me, you will call me.

I promise, now get out of here.

Before Maria went into her room she turned back to Liz…

Liz… for what it’s worth… I’m sorry. I never wanted to hurt you…

I know… I know…
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Max, will you just hurry up… I don’t want to be late.

I’m coming. Jeez... what’s the hurry?

You don’t know Grace. If I get there late, I will never hear the end of it.

Okay, come on let’s go.

Twenty minutes later they were in the gallery…

So, this is it. Very nice.

I told you she wanted this to be perfect.

Now I really want to meet this girl.

You will. Stay here, I’m going to go look for her.

Okay, I’m going to take a look around.

Michael went looking for Grace but couldn’t see her anywhere so he decided to ask her assistant…

Excuse me, where can I find Grace?

She is in her office.

I don’t know if you remember me…

Michael, right?

Yes. Can you show me where the office is?

Yes follow me.

He knocked on the door but no response so he decided to open the door and let himself in. Once inside he noticed that all the lights were off which is was strange but none the less started calling her…

Grace… Grace… are you in here?

Michael?

Grace? What are you doing here in the dark?

I just… I just… she couldn’t hold it anymore and broke down.

Michael came to sit next to her and held her in his arms…

Hey… Shhhh… what’s wrong? Please tell me.

I can’t. Oh Michael… I just want to die… I just wish I could just disappear…

Sh… it’s going to be okay. I mean, outside it looks like everything is going well.

I don’t care about that right now…

Then what is it?

I can’t talk about it. Please just hold me. Please just hold me.

She was sobbing so hard that Michael didn’t know what to do. He could’ve never imagined seeing Grace this broke. I mean to him she was so strong… so hard headed that seeing her like this was breaking his heart.

What is it baby… please tell me?

I can’t… I can’t.

Max was looking around at all the art work when he saw a bunch of people admiring a painting. He thought that it was probably really good because people were really admiring it so he decided to go and take a look at it. While he was getting closer to it he heard the comments that people were making about it…

It is really amazing… I mean it looks so alive.

Yeah, this painting is really good. It looks so real.

I wonder if this paint is also for sale.

I don’t know. It doesn’t seem like something that an artist will get rid of. I mean this painting is so exquisite.

As Max got in front of the painting he started to feel a little uneasy… it was like the feeling that he used to get when Liz was around. He finally took a look at the painting and he couldn’t believe what he was seeing.

It can’t be… It can’t be…

Sir… are you okay?

It can’t be. Who painted this?

The artist’s name is Claudia… Claudia Whitman.

Claudia Whitman? Is she here?

I don’t think so.

It can’t be. It’s just… I… Max went to touch the paint when he was pulled by the security personnel.

Sorry sir, but nobody it’s allowed to touch any of the pieces of the exhibition.

Fine. I want to buy it.

This piece it’s not for sale.

I want to see the owner. I want to talk to her.

Serena came when she saw what was happening…

What’s going on here?

This gentleman was trying to touch the paint.

Sir, you are not…

I know. I want to buy it.

Sorry sir, but this piece it’s not for sale.

I heard that. I want to see the owner of the gallery. I want to talk to her personally.

Sorry sir, but right now she is not available.

Then I’ll wait. I’m not leaving this place without that painting in my hands.

Sir, I don’t think that’s going to happen.

We’ll see about that. Go get the owner. I want to talk to her.

Okay, wait here.

Thank you.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Grace…can I come in?

Yeah Serena… what is it?

I have a guy outside that want to buy the last piece that Grace sent for the exhibition. I told him that the piece was not for sale but he still insist.

I can’t do this right now. Tell him to call the gallery tomorrow and we will talk. I can’t deal with him right now.

Okay.

Once Serena was gone Michael once again try to talk to her.

Grace, what’s wrong. Why are you crying.

I can’t talk about it right now Michael.

Are you sure, maybe you’ll feel better if you talk about it.

I don’t think so.

I don’t understand, here you are crying your heart out… and where is Claudia. I mean I thought that you guys were very close.

At the mention of Claudia’s name Grace broke in tears and Michael understood that whatever was going with Grace it had to do with Claudia.

I see, honey whatever it is that happened between you and your sister it will pass. I mean you guys love each other so much.

She is going to hate me Michael. She is going to hate me.

I don’t understand… what can be so bad that will make Claudia hate you.

I can’t tell you.

Baby if you don’t tell me then I don’t know how to help you.

It doesn’t matter Michael, just hold me… please just hold me.

Outside in the gallery…

Well…

Sorry sir. The owner it’s not feeling well at the moment, but she said to give her a call tomorrow and she will talk to you about the painting.

Okay. I will be calling you can be sure of that.

You really want this paint huh?

You have no idea.

Liz walked in the gallery and she didn’t even noticed the people looking at her painting none less she didn’t even noticed that tall and handsome man that was talking to Serena…

Serena, have you seen Grace?

She is in her office.

Thanks. I’ll see you around.

Max heard a voice that sounded very familiar and turned to look but the person but she was already gone…

Once she made it to the office she opened the door and heard Grace crying…

Grace?

Thank you all for you feed back... I really appreciate it...

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martine - girl...let me tell you... you haven't seen nothing yet about the multiple aspects of my crazy mind...

Keep the FB coming... I aim to please. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Previously...

Liz walked in the gallery and she didn’t even noticed the people looking at her painting none less she didn’t even noticed that tall and handsome man that was talking to Serena…

Serena, have you seen Grace?... asked Liz.

She is in her office... reply Serena.

Thanks. I’ll see you around... said Liz while turning to Maria's office.

Max heard a voice that sounded very familiar and turned to look but the person but she was already gone…

Once she made it to the office she opened the door and heard Grace crying…

Grace?
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Maria looked at the door and her eyes could not believe that Liz was there. A million thoughts crossed her mind but the one that was really latent was if Liz was there to tell her that she didn’t want anything to do with her anymore.

Liz took a look at the scene in front of her and without any hesitation she moved inside the office… Hi Michael, can I talk to Grace alone?... asked Liz looking at Maria.

Michael took a good look at Grace not being sure if it was the right moment to leave her alone with Claudia since she was the reason why Grace was so distraught. Do you want to talk to her?

It’s okay Michael, said Maria. I think it’s better to get this over with.

Michael kissed Grace on the cheek before he got up and before he left he turned… Grace call me if you need me, it doesn’t matter the time, okay?

Maria was very moved by his word and with a very shy smile thanked him and saw him leave the office. Once Michael was gone she turned her attention to Liz.

Maria, I thought a lot about everything that you told me and I don’t know what to do. After you left I try really hard to remember, you know about the events that you told me but I just can’t remember and I do want to remember, I want to remember who I really was before all of this happened and I don’t care if it hurts me… I just want to know who I really was. I need to know who I was… Liz couldn’t hold it anymore and broke down right in front of her. Maria came and sat next to her on the floor and wept with her.

They sat there for what it seems a long time. Maria was the one to break the silence.

Liz… tell me what you want me to do… tell me what is it that you want me do and I’ll do it. I don’t want to see you like this. I can’t stand it... said Maria crying her heart out...

That’s just it. I don’t know anything anymore. I don’t really know who I am… I don’t know where I belong… I don't know what I want... I don’t know anything anymore and it’s driving me crazy... said Liz looking at Maria with a look of exasperation.

Oh sweetie, what do you want me to do?... asked Maria with hope in her voice.

It’s all so complicated, I mean, should I call you Grace or should I call you Maria. Is my name Claudia or is it Liz…said Liz with more exasperation in her voice.

Honey, you can call me anything you want as for who you are well to me you will always be Liz… Elizabeth Claudia Parker, the girl that I grew up with… my best friend. Nobody can take that away from you. Yes it’s true that you have another name now, but to me and to those who ever loved you… you will always be Liz.

I wish I could go back to the point in my life when it wasn’t complicated. I wish that I remember all of those things that you told me my life was. I wish…

I know sweetie, me too… me too. You know just because we have a new life now that doesn’t mean that we can make a future for ourselves you know... said Maria hoping that Liz would calm down.

That’s true and that is not what bothers me Maria. I’m just afraid of what is going to happen when I really remember everything about my past. What is going to happen when I remember… him... said Liz with a sad look on her face.

Him?.. . asked Maria knowing really well who she was refering to...

Yes, Him… Max, if what you told me was true then how I’m going to be able to deal with the fact that the love of my life is out there somewhere and thinking that I’m dead… huh? How I’m I going to be able to keep on living… without him in my life. I don’t know if I’m going to be strong enough not to go running looking for him.

When that time comes, then I’ll support whatever decision you make. I don’t care what Mr. Evans do. I made the deal with him. Not you, so don’t worry about it.

Maria, why does my life have to be so complicated? I just want to be able to live my life in peace and now… I don’t know what is going to happen to me… to you..

What do you mean me?

Maria, I’m not the only one that her life got messed up with this situation. Your life also changed because of what happened to me. It’s not fair. You didn’t deserve this kind of life and looked at what I did to your life.

Hey… you didn’t do anything to my life. I did it myself. I knew what I was getting myself into when I took that decision and I don’t regret it… Okay… don’t ever think that I do, because I sure as hell don’t. I will live these four years again the same way if it means that you will be alive and well.

Oh Maria, what did I do to deserve a friend like you…said Liz sobbing on Maria's arms...

Well, let me tell you if somebody is lucky here it’s me. Liz, you don’t remember any of this but you were always there for me before the accident happened... said Maria hoping that Liz would see that she was saying was true and that if the tables were the other way around Liz would've done the same for her...

I wish I could remember…

You will honey… you will.

Maria, why were you so distraught when I came in?

I was so afraid that you were going to hate me... and I was so afraid that after today you didn’t want to see me anymore…

Maria, how could you think that, I’m alive because of you, I have a new life because of you, how could you think that I could hate you?

Liz, like you said before, you don’t really remember the past, so believe me when I tell you this… you will have a different view on the situation when you do, because when you do... then you will have real knowledge of what you really lost with the decision I made for you those four years ago. So believe me, you will have a different view on things and I wouldn’t be surprise if you'll hate me then. It will kill me... but I will understand ... and that is what scares me the most Liz. I’m so afraid that you will hate me.

Maria, I know that I don’t remember everything, but I promise you this… I will never hate you. You don’t have to worry about that. I promise. How can I when you have done so much for me… when you have sacrifice so much for me.

I hope so Liz. I hope so. Maria try to lighten the mood... So what do you want to do now?

I would love for you to tell me more about our life before my accident. I want to know everything.

Let me talk to Serena and then we can go home and I’ll tell you everything you want to know, okay?

Okay… and Maria…

What?

I’m sorry about tonight. I know how much you were looking forward to this night and…

Liz, the opening went well. I manage to do the opening and give my little speech. The only thing I couldn’t do was mingle with the guests but I think they’ll get over it. Let me call Serena and then we can go.

I’ll wait for you outside, okay, and Maria… I know that for everybody else we are Grace and Claudia… but can we call each other by our real names when we are alone… I kind of like my name.

Of course, I kind of love mine too… and I guess I missed people calling me that. Wait for me for a few minutes.

Okay. See you outside.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

When Michael came outside he looked for Max for several minutes until he found him…

Hey, I was looking for you.

Hey Michael, where were you. I thought you went looking for your girlfriend.

I found her… but she was just a mess. I think she had some kind of problem with her sister. I don’t know if you are going to be able to meet her today.

It’s okay, I’ll meet her another day. Michael there is something that I want to show you.

What?

Take a look at this picture and tell me if you notice something.

Michael took a good look at the picture and gasped.

What is your painting doing here? I mean it looks almost just like the one that you have in your room, but this one has a woman in it.

I know, I don’t know what is going on, but I swear it looks like it’s been done by the same person, which it isn’t possible since the one that I have was done by… he couldn’t finish the sentence and Michael understood completely why.

I know, but how is this possible. I mean how is it possible that two people can paint the same thing and look almost the same, I mean I think it’s impossible.

I know, I try to by it but the Manager told me that the paint was not for sale and I asked her to get the owner of the gallery and she said that the owner wanted me to call her.

I get it. You are the guy.

What guy?

When I was in the office with Grace, Serena came and told her about a guy interested in buying a painting.

God, I’m so stupid. Why I didn’t think about that before… you are dating the owner, right?

Yes.

Then you can ask her to sell me the painting.

I can talk to her.

Do you know the artist?

Let me see… C. Whitman… C. Whitman… hey that is Grace’s sister.

Really… do you think you can introduce me to her?

I don’t think why not, but…

But what?

I mean right now I don’t know what it’s going on between her and Grace, but once everything goes back to normal I think I can ask Grace to introduce you to her.

Thank Michael.

As Michael and Max were talking, Michael saw Claudia coming out of Grace’s office…

I don’t think you will have to wait to meet the artist.

Why not?

Because… she is coming this way.

What… where?

Claudia… Claudia?

Hi Michael.

Hey, it’s everything okay… I mean between you and Grace?

Yes, everything is fine.

I was very worried about her.

I’m sorry about that. We just had a little problem but it’s better now. Look I’m sorry, but I have to go.

Claudia… before you go… there is somebody that I want you to meet… Claudia… this is my best friend Max… Max this is Claudia.

When Claudia finally looked in Max’s direction she lost all sense of everything around her. She focused on his eyes and it was like looking at a mirror. It felt like she had seen those eyes before…

N..nice to meet you Max.

The pleasure it’s all mine.

Have we met before… asked Max?

I don’t think so.

Are you sure? I have this feeling that I’ve seen you before… said Max.

Trust me I would’ve remembered meeting you. It was very nice meeting you Max, but I really have to go.

It was nice meeting you too Claudia. Maybe we can grab a cup of coffee some time… I will love to sit with you and discuss your work with you… specially that piece there in the wall.

Do you like it?

Like it… I love it.

I’m glad.

Where did you paint that?

I don’t know, I saw that in my dreams and I felt like I had to put it in one of my canvas.

Really?

Like I said it was nice meeting you. Maybe we can grab that cup of coffee some time soon. Michael has my phone number you can ask him. Michael, I see you around… If you guys excuse me, I really have to go.

It was nice meeting you Claudia.

Nice meeting you too Max. Michael take care.

You too.

Bye.

Once she was out of sight, Max could take his eyes of where he last saw her…

Hey, are you okay?

I don’t really know. Tonight it’s being more that I expected… first the painting and now Claudia.

What about her?

I don’t know Michael… I feel like I have seen her before.

I don’t think that’s possible Max.

I swear to you Michael… I have this feeling like I’ve seen her before.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outside Liz waited for Maria to meet with her. She was so excited to go home and have Maria tell her about her old life but she was also thinking about Max. She didn’t say anything but she also felt like she knew him too and she found it really weird. She decided that once she was home with Maria she was going to tell her about it.

Sorry it took me so long, but Serena wanted me to meet someone before I left and you know how it is… so I left through the back door to avoid everybody else… said Maria.

Let’s go home… said Liz.

Twenty minutes later Maria and Liz made their way into their apartment and got comfortable in Maria’s room where Maria started telling her stories of them when they were little. Most of the stories that she told her were full of good memories and fund. Liz wanted to know more about her life with Max and she decided that she needed to push Maria because she knew that Maria was trying to avoid the subject.

Wow, that’s great. I guess we did had a great time growing up huh?... said Liz with a smile on her face.

Yeah we had the best time… said Maria looking at Liz with a smile of her own.

Maria…

Yeah…

Tell me about my life with Max… tell me what did he looked like? I know that you are trying to avoid the subject… but I need to know.

I know… I know… what can I tell you about Max… let’s see… well he was good looking as hell… tall… a body like a rock… he had this beautiful smile… the ears…well those were not that cute… but the thing that you were most fond about him… were his eyes… he had these beautiful amber eyes… and…

Oh my God…

What… what is it?

Maria… I think… I think I met him today.

What? No, that is not possible.

I think it is. I think I met him at the gallery tonight.

It can’t be.

Yes I think it was him. Michael introduced me to his friend tonight. His name is Max, Maria and I had this feeling when I met him… it was like I knew him from before.

It has to be a coincidence… it can’t be.

But Maria… the guy looks exactly like you are describing my Max… and let me tell you when I looked into his eyes it was like the rest of the world just disappeared around me and all I can see were those eyes.

Oh my God… it can’t be. What is his full name?

I… I don’t know. Michael only told me his first name.

It can’t be. This can be happening… it’s impossible…

I know… I need to know Maria… I need to know if it’s him. Please… call Michael.

I can’t Liz…

Please, do it for me… please.

I don’t know if this is a good idea… I mean, what are you going to do if it’s him. We can tell him who you are… who we are… we don’t know what his father will do if he…

I don’t care Maria… right now I just need to know.

All right, let me call Michael.

Maria picked up the phone and dialed Michael’s name…

Hello?

Hi Michael… it’s Grace.

Hey… I was worried about you. Are you doing better?

Yes, I’m fine thanks. I called to apologize for not saying goodbye to you tonight.

Don’t worry about it. I know that you were having a rough time. I understand. I just wanted to know if you were okay. That’s all it matters to me.

Thanks… hum Michael…

Yes?

Claudia told me that she met your friend tonight?

Yes, she did.

She told me his name, but I forgot… what was it… Mario… Ma..

You mean Max.

Yes Max… that’s it…

Yeah he was very impressed with her.

What do you mean impressed?

Well, first he wanted to buy the painting of the cliff from the gallery and then when he met her… he said that he had this felling… like he knew her from before.

Really.

Yeah.

What is your friend’s full name?

What do you want to know?

Because the guy cause a very good impression on my sister and I have to know who she is associating with. You know how protective I am of her.

I know, and you don’t have to worry about him. He is a good guy. He's had a rough life, but he is a very good guy. You don’t have to worry about him.

Really… so what is his name?

His name is… Maxwell… Maxwell Evans.

When she heard the name she just dropped the phone and couldn’t talk anymore.

Thank you all for your fb. Here is another chapter. I hope you'll like it.

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Previously…

What is your friend’s full name?

What do you want to know?

Because the guy cause a very good impression on my sister and I have to know who she is associating with. You know how protective I am of her.

I know, and you don’t have to worry about him. He is a good guy. He had a rough life, but he is a very good guy. You don’t have to worry about him.

Really… so what is his name?

His name is… Maxwell… Maxwell Evans.

When she heard the name she just dropped the phone and couldn’t talk anymore.
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As soon as the phone fell from Maria’s hand Liz knew the answer to her question. She gave Maria the phone back and went to her room.

Grace… Grace… are you still there?

Huh… yeah sure… sorry, I’m right here.

What happened?

Nothing… Claudia was calling me and I just drop he phone. You know what Michael, I have to go. Claudia is calling me again.

Okay, can I call you tomorrow?

Sure… goodnight Michael.

Goodnight Grace.

After Maria hung the phone she went into Liz’s room and found her lying in her bed in a fetal position and it broke her heart seeing her friend like and she laid right next to her…

Are you okay?

I don’t know… I don’t know anything anymore…

I’m sorry Liz.

It’s not your fault Maria.

In a way it is… what I don’t understand is what the hell is Max doing here in Texas.

What do you mean?

I mean, think about it. His father knows that we were here… or at least he still think we are. Why would he let him come here knowing of the chance that Max could come across our path. I know that the odds are enormous, but still…

This got Liz’s attention and she sat back on the bed looking back at Maria…

You know Maria, you are right. Why do you think he is here?

Honestly I don’t know, but I’m pretty sure that his father is probably shitting in his pants right now.

You think so?

Oh girl… I know so. Liz we have to be careful. I don’t know what his father is capable of doing if he finds us.

What can we do? It’s not like we went looking for him. He is the one who came across our path…

He doesn’t know it’s us Liz. If he sees me then maybe he can put two and two together… remember I supposedly died in that accident too. For now I’m telling you that we have to be very careful.

Maria…

Liz… you don’t know how cruel his father can be, but I do. I don’t want you to go through hell all over again.

But…

No! Listen to me Liz. We have to find out first what is Max doing here and what is really going on with his father.

And how are we going to do that?

Michael…

Michael?

I’m going to get as much information as I can from him.

Maria… I don’t think that is a good idea.

Why not?

Because… you like him Maria and I don’t want you to loose him.

Why I’m I going to loose him?

Maria if by any reason all of this comes out in the open he is going to think that the only reason that you were interested in him was so you can get information from him.

But Liz, there isn’t any reason for him to think that.

Really… Maria if Max finds out the truth… then he’ll know that were not really sisters and that we knew about Max from the beginning and that could lead him to believe that you were just using him.

You know Liz, I really don’t care what he thinks. If that happens… the so be it. We need to find out… so I’ll do whatever I have to do to…

No Maria. You don’t have to do anything. I know that you feel like you owe me or something, but you don’t. I know that you really care about Michael and I’m not letting you ruin your chances with him for me. This is my problem and I’m the one that is going to do something to fix it.

You? And how are you going to do that?

Well… Max wants to take out for coffee. I can make friend with him and ask him. He doesn’t know it’s me. I guess I really look like I used to huh? I can use that to my advantage.

I don’t know Liz, it’s true that you look different, but there are still features in you that still reminds me of the old you and if I can see them… how long do you think it’s going to take Max to see them too?

It’s a risk that I’m willing to take Maria. I’m sick and tired of living in the shadows. I want to know everything that there is about me. I want to be me again… don’t you?

More than anything, but I don’t want you to get hurt in the process Liz.

I know you don’t, but you can’t protect me forever Maria. It’s time for me to live my own life and make my own decisions.

Okay, so what are you going to do?

I’m going to call him tomorrow and I’m going to invite him for coffee.
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That same night in Michael’s apartment…

You look tired.

Yeah… I’m beat. I think I’m going to head to bed. By the way, how is Grace?

She’s better. She was asking questions about you.

About me? Why?

It seems that you made quite an impression on her sister and she wanted to know more about you.

I see, did Claudia… was she there too?

I suppose so. You like her… don’t you?

Michael, it’s not that. I’m just interested in finding out more about her work.

Ahah!... Sure…

Look Michael, you know that I’m not interested in that kind of thing…

I see, so liking a girl now is called things…

You know what I mean. I was interested in one girl Michael and… and she doesn’t exist anymore… she’s gone and I know that what I had with her was unique and that I will never have that with any other girl again… so even if I find her attractive I know in my heart that I will not be able to have with her what I had with… with Liz so I promise myself that I will never settler for anything less than what I had with Liz. The kind of relationship that I had with Liz only come once in a lifetime and…

Max, but maybe…

No Michael, trust me when I tell you that once you live that kind of love… there is no way that you will settle for anything less.

Max…

You know what? I’m tired… I’m going to bed. I’ll see you in the morning.

Max went into his room and took his clothes off and laid back on his bed staring at the ceiling and started thinking about tonight’s events. He couldn’t understand how it was possible for two different people to have the same gift for painting. I mean of course a lot of artist paint the same subject, but to look almost exactly, it was impossible, but then again he thought that in this life anything was possible. He turned to his side and looked at the painting that Liz made for him and started talking to the painting like he did so many times in the past…

I don’t understand what’s going on Liz, but I know it’s you. I know it’s you trying to tell me something… but what… what is that you are trying to tell me love… what? God Liz… I miss you… I miss you so much baby. I wish you were here with me right now…

And with those thoughts and tears in his eyes he drifted to sleep and soon he was dreaming of her… of their last night together…

Lz was completely naked in his arms and they were standing in front of their bed in a very tightly embrace…

So… after everything I’ve done, you are not going to tell me what you have planned for tomorrow huh… said Liz in a very husky voice.

You know you are killing me right now… don’t you? But no, I’m not going to tell you… it’s a surprise.

Hummm… can’t say I didn’t try… I guess I will have to wait until tomorrow then.

Yes you will.

You know… kiss… you’ve been… kiss… a very… very… kiss… bad girl.

Ummm… really? Why do you say that?

Well for starters you came home from school in and sat at the diner table in nothing but a skimpy little t-shirt and a little piece of underwear…kiss… then you came here into our room… kiss… and tried to really drive me crazy by stripping the way you did just now… kiss…

I’m sorry baby… kiss… I just…

Max put his finger on her lips… You just what… thought that you could get your way… kiss…

Kiss… of course not baby… kiss… I was just trying to get you in bed… kiss

Really… but sweetheart… kiss… you know that you don’t need to do any of that to get me into bed… kiss… kiss… the only thing that you need to do to get me into bed is look at me… kiss… you know that…

I know… but…

Oh God Liz… I can’t take this anymore… I want you so bad baby… so bad.

Then take me Max… I’m all yours…

I love you…

I love you too… make love to me Max…

She didn’t have to ask him twice. Max took her in his arms and made love too her with all the love and passion that he felt for her. It was slow… tender… full of passion and desire. It was perfect.

His dream was almost exactly like the last night they spent together when all of the sudden everything changed…

Liz started to get out of bed and Max tried to grab her… I have to go…

Where are you going?

I don’t belong here Max…

Of course you do. What are you talking about?

I don’t belong in your life anymore.
Please Liz… what are you talking about? Of course you belong with me.

I’m sorry Max… but I have to go.

Where? Where are you going?

I doesn’t matter.

Yes it does. It matters to me. Where are you going?

I’ll be waiting for you…

Where? Liz… don’t go… don’t go… please…

I have to. See you soon my love. I’ll see you soon.

Liz… Liz… please… don’t leave me. Don’t leave me. I need you… don’t go… he try to get up to the bed and follow her but he couldn’t move. He felt like he was glued to the bed.

Liz… Liz… LIZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

He woke up screaming and sweating. Michael heard him from his room and came up to check on him.

Are you okay?

Yes… I’m fine. I just had a bad dream.

Want to talk about it?

No, not really. I just want to try and go back to sleep.

Okay, but if you want to talk about it, you know where to find me.

Thanks… goodnight.

Night.

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The next morning Max got up and found Michael in the kitchen cooking breakfast.

Hey… good morning.

Hey Max. Feeling better?

Yeah, thanks.

So, what are your plans for today?

Nothing special… I think that I’m going to go to pick up my program at school and check out the campus. You?

I’m going to try and see Grace today.

At that precise moment the phone started ringing and Michael asked Max to answer it.

Hello?

Hi, I’m looking for Max.

This is him. Who is this?

Hi, I don’t know if you remember me, but we met last night.

And you are…

I’m Claudia Whitman.

Girls... thank you for your fb... It means the world to me. Here is another chapter. I hope you like it.

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JustThisOnce - To you my friend a special thanks... for the wonderful baner that you made me.

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Previously…

Hey Max. Feeling better?

Yeah, thanks.

So, what are your plans for today?

Nothing special… I think that I’m going to go to pick up my program at school and check out the campus. You?

I’m going to try and see Grace today.

At that precise moment the phone started ringing and Michael asked Max to answer it.

Hello?

Hi, I’m looking for Max.

This is him. Who is this?

Hi, I don’t know if you remember me, but we met last night.

And you are…

I’m Claudia Whitman.

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Hi Claudia, what can I do for you?

Actually… it’s what I can do for you…

What do you mean?

Well, Serena told me that you were very interested in my work and you also told me last night yourself… so I thought to myself why not take in your offer…

My offer…

Yes, you know… coffee.

Wow, really… That’s great. When?

How about today… like at two.

Sounds great, tell me where.

There is a café in front of the gallery, you can meet me there.

Okay, I’ll see you there at two.

Michael came into the living room hoping that it was Grace on the phone…

Who was that?

It was Claudia. She wants to have coffee with me.

Good… when?

I’m meeting her later today.

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Are you sure that you want to do this?

I have to Maria. I need to know.

I know sweetie. I just don’t want you to…

Maria please, stop trying to protect me.

I’m sorry. I guess is the force of habit. So what are you going to wear?

What? Maria this is not a date.

I know, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t look your best.

Maria, I know that you mean well, but let me do this my own way… okay?

Okay. I’m sorry.

It’s okay. Come on.

Later that day Max was sitting outside the café waiting for Claudia. He got there a little earlier because he was afraid that if he got there late she wouldn’t be there and he would miss the chance to talk to her.

He was so lost in his thoughts when all of the sudden he heard somebody calling his name and he felt goosebumps all over his body...

Liz?

I’m sorry, what did you call me?

Nothing… I’m sorry… you just startle me for a moment… that’s all.

I’m sorry I didn’t mean to scare you, but I was calling your name and you didn’t answer me.

It’s okay, forget about it. You want to have a sit?

Thanks. I’m glad you came.

Me too… can I get you something to drink?

Yes please… I will have a hot chocolate with whip cream and a touch of cinnamon.

Max called the waitress and ordered Liz’s drink and once the waitress was gone he turned his attention back to Liz.

You know, I don’t know a lot a people like their chocolate the way you do.

That’s good to know.

I was really impressed with you work yesterday.

I’m glad you like it.

Like it’s not the right way to put it… I loved it.

Thank you.

You said last night that “the cliff” painting was an inspiration that you got from a dream.

Yes.

What else did you see in that dream?

Why?
I’m just curious…

Well actually, I didn’t see much in it other than the amazing view of it. I saw that view and I knew when I woke up that I had to put into canvas. I only wish I knew where that beautiful place is.

Why would you like to know?

Because to me it’s not like any other place that I’ve seen before in my life. I think it has to be a very special place.

You know, there is a place pretty much like that in Boston.

Really?

Yes.

Are you from Boston?

Yes, born and raised.

I always wanted to see Boston. I wanted to go to college there.

Why?

Because I think they have the best schools there.

Tell me about yourself.

What do you want to know?

I don’t know… anything.

Well, as you know I live with my sister Grace. I like to read… I love music… I love white roses but most of all I love to paint. Painting is my biggest passion. How about you?

Me?

Come on Max, you got to tell me something.

Okay, like you I like to read… I also love white roses and I like to spend a lot of time alone.

Why are you so sad Max?

I’m not sad. Why do you say that?

I can see it in your eyes.

No, I’m not sad. I just didn’t sleep well last night.

Have anybody ever tell you that you are a terrible liar?

Yeah… there was…

Look Max. I know we just met, but it’s okay if you don’t want to talk about certain things. I will understand, but I want to ask you a favor.

What?

Don’t lie to me okay… I don’t like when people lie to me.

I’m sorry I didn’t mean to…

Don’t worry. I understand. Now that you know please don’t okay? If you want us to be friends… that is.

I would love for us to be friends.

Okay, so… what are you doing here in Texas?

I needed a change of scenery.

You have any family?

My only family are my mother and my father, you?

It’s just me and Grace. I bet your parents were not happy when you told them that you were moving here huh?

Well my mother understood, but my father… that’s another story.

What do you mean?

Well, when I told him that I was moving here he went nuts on me. He even forbid me to do so.

I bet…

What did you say?

I mean I kind of understand. You are his only son.

Yes I know, but after everything that I went through…

Want to talk about that?

If you don’t mind, not right now.

Okay, so… left any girl down there in Boston?

His face went pale and he lowered his gaze to look at his hand and in a very low whisper he gave her his answer… No.

I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to upset you.

It’s okay. It’s just that… that subject is very hard for me to talk about.

I can see that it’s not very easy to talk to you.

I guess not, but please understand that it has nothing to do with you.

I guess whoever she was… you know the one that got you this sad really broke your heart.

You can say that… but not for the reasons that you think.

You really think that you know what I’m thinking?

You’re thinking that she left me.

Maybe… maybe what I’m thinking is that she left you for somebody else.

At this Max got a little defensive and raised his voice at Liz… She would’ve never done that to me. She was not like that.

That maybe so, but she still left you.

Yes she did… but not because she wanted to.

How so?

She… she…

She what Max?

She… died.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Who is it?

It’s me… Michael.

Hey, want to come in?

Sure… I just wanted to see how you were doing?

I’m doing better. Thank you.

Grace… I really care about you and last night… it broke my heart to see you like that.

Michael… She looked at him and saw the sincerity of his words in his eyes and everything that she and Liz talked about the night before came back into her mind. She knew that he needed to be honest with him… if not she was going to loose him. She started crying and Michael was a little lost on what was going on... one minute she was telling him that she was better and the next she was crying...

Hey... what's wrong?

Michael... I... I want you to know that I never cared about a guy the way I care about you. You mean so much to me Michael...

What is it? You are scaring me...

I need to tell you something but I don't know where to start... but most of all I'm scared of your reaction.

My reaction… to what?

Of what you are going to do after you hear what I have to say and will never want to see me again.

That is not going to happen.

You want to bet.

Thank you for your fb. Hope you like the new chapter... and girls it won't be long for the end...

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Previously…

Michael… She looked at him and saw the sincerity of his words in his eyes and everything that she and Liz talked about the night before came back into her mind. She knew that he needed to be honest with him… if not she was going to loose him. She started crying and Michael was a little lost on what was going on... one minute she was telling him that she was better and the next she was crying...

Hey... what's wrong?

Michael... I... I want you to know that I never cared about I guy the way I care about you. You mean so much to me Michael...

What is it? You are scaring me...

I need to tell you something but I don't know where to start... but most of all I'm scared of your reaction.

My reaction… to what?

Of what you are going to do after you hear what I have to say and will never want to see me again.

That is not going to happen.

You want to bet.

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Michael… there are things about me… about my life that you don’t know and I’m afraid that when you find out… well… you will not want anything to do with me anymore.

You’re not going to tell me that you were a guy are you?

I wish it was that simple… but no.

Then what is it?

Michael… I don’t know where to start…

Why don’t you try from the beginning.

Okay, first of all I want you to know that my name is not Grace.
What do you mean it’s not Grace?

My real name is Maria DeLuca.

Maria Deluca?... I don’t know why but I think I heard that name before.

You probably had.

How do you know that?

Michael, four years ago my best friend… my sister was involved in a very bad car accident.

Okay…

Because of that accident I had to make some decisions that changed the lives of several people mine included.

What are you trying to tell me?

Michael… my friend’s name is Elizabeth… Elizabeth Parker.

What?... It can’t be. Elizabeth Parker died… she died in a car accident together with… at that moment everything started to make sense to Michael. This was Liz’s friend… the one that supposedly died in that accident. Oh my God, you are that Maria.

Yes Michael. We didn’t die in that car accident. I was never with Liz when the accident happened.

Then, what the hell happened?

First, let me tell you that Liz did almost die in that accident. She was in very bad shape. When I got to the hospital Max’s father was there waiting for me. He knew how bad her condition was and he wanted Liz to disappear from her son’s life… so he came up with this plan… and I had no other choice but to accept his proposition. I didn’t want to Michael… I swear to you that I didn’t, but I didn’t have any other choice at the moment. He knew that if Liz survived the accident she was going to need a lot of medical treatment and the only way that he was willing to help Liz to get better was if I agreed to disappear with Liz from Max’s life forever.

What a bastard. I still can’t believe that Mr. Evans would do something like that… specially to his son. I mean I saw the guy crying at night next to his son’s bed.

What do you mean his son’s bed?

Maria, when Max got to the hospital and found out that Liz was dead he went crazy. He started to scream and break things at the hospital. It took several people to restrain him. When they finally gave him a sedative they took him to a room in the hospital and the next day when he woke up… well… he wasn’t the same.

What do you mean?

Maria, Max was in a catatonic state for two and a half years.

Oh my God. Oh my God. This is all my fault.

Maria, calm down. It wasn’t your fault.

How can you say that? Look at what happened to Max. I knew that he was going to be hurt… but I never wanted him to… to hurt like that.

Maria, calm down. It’s true that he was like that, but it was his way to deal with his pain. Nobody can predict how somebody is going to react to certain situations.

I know, but he didn’t deserve that Michael. Max is a good guy. He was always so good to Liz.

I know, he loved her very much.

Yes he did. Oh God.

So tell me, why did Mr. Evans wanted Liz out of his son’s life?

He had this idea in his mind that Liz was with Max only for his money, but Michael, I swear to you Liz is not like that. She loved Max so much.

You don’t have to defend her to me Maria. For what Max told me about her I knew that she was a good person. I just still can’t believe that his father did all of this.

Well, believe it. That guy is evil. I only hope that I see him rot in hell for what he did to us.

So tell me, how come Liz agreed to follow with this charade?

When she woke up from her coma she didn’t remember who she was so it was a little easier for me to make her adapt to our new life. In a way I was greatful because I don’t think she would’ve survived if she remembered everything about her and Max.

I see, so she doesn’t know anything about him.

I wouldn’t say that.

What do you mean?

In the last few days she started remembering little things about our past. She asked me to tell her everything about our past and I didn’t have any other choice but to tell her. She now know everything… including her relationship with Max.

Is she going to tell him?

I don’t know what is going to happen anymore Michael.

But he needs to know.

I know, but she is not ready to do that, besides it’s not like she really knows him anymore. She only knows what I’ve told her, but in reality she doesn’t remember having feelings for him.

I understand that, but Max needs to know that she is alive. The guy is been in mourning for four years.

I know… I know it’s not fair, but Michael it’s her choice now not mine.

So what are you guys going to do?

I don’t know, like I said I have to wait and talk to Liz when she get back. She went to find out what is Max doing here in Texas because knowing his father, I know that he will try to find us and who know what he will be capable of doing if his secret comes out in the open. Michael, Liz is been through hell and back and I don’t want to see her get her again. She’s been through so much Michael. All those years of pain, surgeries, rehabilitation…

It’s okay, I understand. I still think that is not fair, but I understand.

I think the best thing for me and Liz is to move out of here. I don’t want that guy near her ever again.

So, that is your solution? You are going to run.

I’m not running. I want to protect her Michael. I don’t want her so suffer anymore. She doesn’t deserve it.

And you do?

What are you talking about?

Maria, Liz is not the only person that is suffering with this situation. You are too. You missed of having a life of your own to take care of her. You deserve to have a life too.

I have a life. I like the way my life is.

Really? Then where do I fit in this life of yours?

Michael, I care about you. If we move from here I’ll let you know where we are and we can…

What?... have a long distance relationship?... see each other once or twice a year? That is not what I want with you. I want to be able to see you every day. I want to be able to be with you full time.

I would want that too, but you have to understand I can’t risk for them to find us again, not now that Liz is starting to remember. I don’t know how much this will affect her mentally and emotionally.

So you are going to sacrifice our happiness for hers is that it?

I’m not saying that.

Then what is that you are saying?

I… I don’t know… I want you in my life but…

I see. Maria you don’t have to be afraid anymore. You are not alone anymore. You have me. I won’t let anything happen to either one of you. I promise. Now that I know the whole story about Max’s father I won’t let him get near you. I promise.

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I’m sorry Max. I didn’t know.

Hey, it’s not your fault. It happened a few years ago.

I know but still… I seems that you loved her very much and here I was making assumptions…

Yes I did… I do.

You do?

I know it sounds ridiculous but I can’t help it. The kind of love that we shared only comes once in a lifetime.

She was a lucky girl.

No, I was the lucky one.

Liz was looking at him and wanted to hold him in her arms and take all his pain away but she couldn’t do it. Even if she was the person that he was grieving for… she was not that person anymore and the only thing that she knew about them were the things that Maria told her. It was true that she was starting to remember but she still didn’t know who she really was or who she was for that matter.

Max…

It’s okay Claudia. You didn’t know.

I only hope that time will help you heal and that you can move on with your life. There are still a lot of wonderful things in this world worth living for.

I don’t know if I will be able to… but I’m trying.

I’ll be here if you need me.

Thank you. I really like that.

You are welcome. You know Max… it’s getting late and I promise Grace that I was going to help her with the gallery later.
Okay.

If you want we can do this again some other time.

That would be great.

I’ll give you a call when I have time, okay?

Sound good.

It was nice talking to you Claudia.

Same here… goodbye Max.

Goodbye Claudia.

Max… I’m really sorry about… you know… before.

Don’t worry about it. I’ll see you soon.

Bye.
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Liz made it home and found Michael talking to Maria and by the look of her she knew that Maria told Michael.

Hey Michael.

Hi Liz.

So you know?

Yes, Maria told me everything. I’m really sorry for everything that happened.

Thanks.

I’m still trying to process the whole thing. It’s unbelievable.

Tell me about it. We can write a novel about my life… don’t you think?

I guess, so what are you going to do?

I don’t know yet. I know every detail of my life but I can’t remember any of it. Does that make sense to you?

Yes, it must be hard for you.

It is but I’m trying to deal with it the best I can.

You saw Max today right?

Yes, I just left him.

Did you tell him?

Tell him what? Look Max I don’t know how to tell you this, but guess what I’m your dead girlfriend…

That’s not what I meant.

I know, but I can’t tell him at least not yet. Michael I feel like I know him but I really don’t. The old “me” knows him. I don’t want to put him through more pain. I don’t even know if I will be able to love him again… at least not the way I used to. He still loves the old me… he told me today. How can I be that person for him when I don’t even know who I am anymore. I’m so confused.

I can only imagine. I want you to know that I’m here for you. If you need me I’ll be here.

Thank you. Maria… my head really hurts and I feel really tired. I’m going to my room to take a nap.

Go ahead. I’ll go check on you later.

Thank you for everything Michael. I’ll see you later.

Bye Liz.

I’m worried about her. I think I’m going to call Jesse and have him come check her out.

I think that’s a good idea.

Thank you for being so understanding Michael.

Hey, you don’t have to thank me. I already told you I’m here for you and Liz whenever you need me. I’m not going anywhere… and I hope that you will be too.

I’m here Michael… I’ll be here.

Good, now I’m going to go home. Call me if you need anything. Okay.

I will. Good night Michael.

Night.

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Michael got home and found Max sitting in front of the tv…

Hey…

Hey… how did it go with Claudia?

Good. Actually I had a great time with her even thought I went a little weepy on her.

What do you mean?

We were talking and one thing let to the other and we end up talking a little bit about Liz.

I see. How did she take it?

Better than I expected. I mean somebody else I guess would have left my sorry ass right there alone, but she stayed and talked me. I felt really good after that.

Good… you know Max I’m tired and I thing I’m just going to go to my room for a little while. Do you mind?

Not at all, go ahead.

See you later then.

Michael went into his room and picked up his phone…

Hello?

Alex is that you?

Hey Michael, how is it going down there?

Alex… can you come here in the next few days?
What’s wrong? It’s Max all right?

Yes he is fine now… but he is going to need all the friends that he can get in the next few days.

Why… what’s going on?

Look, I can’t tell you over the phone… can you come?

Yes, I’ll talk to Isabel and I’ll be there tomorrow if I can find a flight.

Thanks man. Call me when you get you flight arrangements so I can go and pick you up.

Okay.

I’ll see you tomorrow then.

Bye.

After talking to Alex he laid in his bed and started to think about the day that Max woke up. He remembered it like it was yesterday. He just finished giving Max his physical therapy of the day when all of the sudden he felt his hand grab him…

Who are you?

My name is Michael… I’m your physical therapist.

Physical therapist… what happened to me? Why do I need physical therapy?

I think I’m going to call your parents.

No, don’t call my parents… I want to see Liz.

Man… I…

What… you don’t know who she is? Call her… I need to see her…

Let me call your parents… I’ll be right back.

No… I need… Max tried to get out of bed but he wasn’t strong enough to support himself…

Man… you got to stay in bed. You are not strong enough.

What’s going on?

A few minutes later his parents were in his room…

Max… honey… you are awake.

Mom… what’s going on? I want to see Liz. Please call her. I need to see her.

Max sweetie…

What’s wrong mom… where is Liz?

Son… Liz… she is dead.

NO! It’s not true. Why are you lying to me dad? Why?

Max, what your father said it’s true. She died son. She died on a car accident.

No… please mom, tell me it’s not true. I want to see her… I want her with me… I need her Mom… please…

Son, you have to calm down.

I don’t want to calm down. I want her… I want her here with me.

I’m sorry baby. She is gone.

No… it’s not true… she promised that she was never going to leave me… she promise mom…

I know baby, but she is gone.

No, you are lying. I want to see her… I want to see her body…

That is not going to be possible son.

Why not?

Son, she…

She what dad?

Max, the accident happened two and a half years ago.

What? I don’t understand?

Max, after you found out that she died in the accident you went into a catatonic state and well that was more than tow years ago.

It’s not possible. It can’t be. I… I wasn’t even there to say goodbye to her… I wasn’t there when she was buried… no… it’s not possible.

I’m sorry baby… but it’s true.

Mom… I love her… I love her so much… it hurts…

I know baby… but it will pass… you’ll see.

It will never pass… never… she was everything to me… she was my soulmate Mom… how can you live without your other half… how?

I don’t know, but you will have to. I know it’s not going to be easy but you will make it.

I just want to die Mom… I just want to die. I feel so empty inside.

Oh baby… it will pass… it will pass.

Phillip watched the whole scene between her son and his wife and he knew then that there was no possible way that he can tell Max the truth. If he did he knew that he will loose his son forever and that was a risk that he was not going to take no matter how guilty he felt for his actions. He knew that the moment that the truth came to light he will loose him forever....

Girls... thank you for you fb. Here is the new chapter I hope you like it.

michelle17
g7silvers
erina258
begonia9508
omwf
martine
JustThisOnce

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Previously…

Max, after you found out that she died in the accident you went into a catatonic state and well that was more than tow years ago.

It’s not possible. It can’t be. I… I wasn’t even there to say goodbye to her… I wasn’t there when she was buried… no… it’s not possible.

I’m sorry baby… but it’s true.

Mom… I love her… I love her so much… it hurts…

I know baby… but it will pass… you’ll see.

It will never pass… never… she was everything to me… she was my soulmate Mom… how can you live without your other half… how?

I don’t know, but you will have to. I know it’s not going to be easy but you will make it.

I just want to die Mom… I just want to die. I feel so empty inside.

Oh baby… it will pass… it will pass.

Phillip watched the whole scene between her son and his wife and he knew then that there was no possible way that he can tell Max the truth. If he did he knew that he will loose his son forever and that was a risk that he was not going to take no matter how guilty he felt for his actions. He knew that the moment that if the truth came to light he will loose him forever....
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The next morning Maria called Jesse and asked him to come and take a look at Liz. She was very worried about her. All night Liz was tossing and turning in her sleep. Maria even saw tears coming out of her eyes even though Liz was deep in her sleep. She was looking at her friend when she heard a knock at the door…

Thank you for coming.

No problem. Where is she?

She is in her room. I’ll go get her.

A few minutes later Maria came back in the living room where Jesse was waiting for them…

Claudia, how are you feeling today? Grace told me that you haven’t been feeling well.

My head it’s been hurting a lot lately.

I see, let me take a look at you.

He checked her for a few minutes and started to ask her a few questions…

When did your head started hurting?

Two or three days ago I think.

Have you been feeling any dizziness?

No.

Did anything happen right before your head start hurting you?

Well… it started hurting right after I started to get some of my memories back.

I see… you are starting to remember?

Yes.

Do you remember everything?

Only remember a few things.

I want you to come to my office tomorrow. I want to you have a CAT-Scan.

Do you think that there’s something wrong with her?

I don’t think so but I want to make sure that everything is okay.

We’ll be there tomorrow.

I’m going to give you something for the pain.

I really appreciate that. Thanks.

Well Claudia, I want you to rest for today. I will see you girls tomorrow.

Jesse, I can’t thank you again for coming in so short notice.
Don’t mention it… how could I miss the opportunity to see my two favorite patients… and I say two because with you two it’s never one. You always come in pairs…

We’ll see you tomorrow Jesse and thanks again.

See you tomorrow. Bye.

Bye.
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Michael got a phone call from Alex last night telling him that his plane was arriving early the next morning, so he got up early and left a note for Max before leaving for the airport.

When Max got up he saw the note and went to the kitchen to get some coffee.

He sat there and taking a sip of his coffee he started to think about the events of the last few days. He thought about the painting… about meeting Claudia and about how comfortable he felt around her. It felt so familiar, the way that se moved, the way that her face lit up when she laughed, her voice, her hair, but what caught his attention the most where her eyes. Her eyes were lit Liz’s. They were like the window to her soul. How was it possible that two people could be so alike? The more he thought about it, the more confused he felt. It was like his Liz was back in his life again but he knew that it was impossible because his Liz was dead… but then and idea came into his mind… he needed to see Claudia.

He started looking for her phone number and when he found it his face lit up completely, not only was her number there but her address too. He decided that instead of calling her he would pay her a visit instead.
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Maria hear a knock at the door and without asking who it was she opened the door…

Good afternoon Ms. Deluca. Long time no see…

You…

Yes Ms. Deluca, it’s me.

What are you doing here?

What? You are not happy to see me?

What do you think? You are not welcomed in this house.

Oh come on… you are not still mad at me are you?

You bastard! What the hell are you doing here?

I came to see you. I thought we had an understanding.

Look, we didn’t go around looking for your son. He found us.

I know, but my question to you is what you going to do about it?

What I’m I going to do about it?

Yes Ms. Deluca, we can’t have my son finding out completely about you or your friend, now can we?

Maria was about to respond him when the phone started ringing. She let it ring for a little while before picking it up…

Maria… who is there?

Liz sweetie, go back to your room.

Well… well… well, hello Ms. Parker.

Do I know you?

Maria picked up the phone to find Michael at the other end of it…

Hello?

Michael… I need you here.

What’s wrong? Are you okay?

He’s here.

Who is there?

Mr. Evans… please Michael hurry.
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Michael did you just said Maria?

Yes.

Who is that Maria?

Alex… Maria Deluca and Liz Parker are alive.

What?

I can’t explain it to you right now, but I promise that I’ll tell you everything later, right now we need to get to her.
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Who are you?

You really don’t remember me do you?

No, should I?

Liz stay away from him, this man is Max’s father.

Oh… I see.

Why the face Ms. Parker, I mean I really did you a favor four years ago.

You don’t know anything, I don’t remember everything about my life then but for what I heard you just took away my life… your son’s life and destroyed it.

Destroyed it… I don’t think so, I only did what was necessary to protect my son from a gold digger like you. You came into my son’s life and took him away from his family. You alienate it him from the rest of the world. You took control over his life and manipulated him like a puppy.

I did not. Max is not like that. If he didn’t want to be around you anymore he probably had his reasons.

And you think that is all right for a son to give up his family for a girl? Do you have any idea how much that hurt his mother? Huh, do you?

Look I don’t know what Max’s reasons were but seeing you here and now knowing the things that you done to me, Maria and your son it’s no wonder that he didn’t want anything to do with you then.

Shut up! I’m not here to discuss this with you. I’m here because I don’t want you near my son again. I will do whatever it takes to keep you away from him.

Are you threatening me Mr. Evans?

No, I’m just giving you a fair warning, stay away from my son. I don’t want you near him.

And if I don’t stay away from him, what are you going to do huh?

Ms Parker, you don’t know me, so don’t push me.

Look Mr. Evans, this is my home. I’m not going to leave my home… my life again to accommodate your wishes. I’m not in a comma anymore. Four years ago you somebody else was forced to make that decision for me, but now I’m very much awake and I’m telling you to your face that I’M NOT GOING ANYWHERE. So, since I already gave you my answer, please do me a favor and leave my house before I call the police.

I see so this is the way that you want to play?

Look, I don’t want to play it any way… I’m just asking you to leave my house.

That is very funny Ms. Parker because I think that this house was bought with MY money.

Ah… sorry to break it to you Mr. Evans, but this house was not bought with you filthy money.

What are you talking about Ms. Deluca?

That your stinking money is sitting in a bank account waiting to be returned to his stinking owner.

Impossible, how… I don’t understand?

While the first year of our new life was hard, as soon as Liz started getting better finished school and right after that I found a really good job that provided me with a very good medical plan for me and MY sister. In that job a made very good commissions and started to put back in the bank whatever I took to help Liz get better. Once I completed putting back the money that I took from you stupid bank account I started saving money and well the rest I don’t think I have too tell you I mean you are a very smart man, you can figure it out.

Very good Ms. Deluca, but that doesn’t change the fact that you made a pact with me. I even have papers signed by you.

Yes, you are right I signed those papers, not Liz. I made that decision without her consent because at that time she wasn’t in the position to choose for herself, but now… well now it’s a different story. Now she can decide whatever she wants to do and the beauty of it is that I will support whatever decision she chooses to make.

I will not let you destroy what we have now with my son. I will do whatever it takes to prevent that from happening.

Mr. Evans I chose to stay here. This is my life now. I didn’t go looking for you son. Your son found me. He found me but he doesn’t know who I really I’m.

He doesn’t know yet, but once he sees you friend he will put two and two together then what?

If it comes to that, then he is entitled to know the truth.

I can’t let that happen.

Look, you already said everything that you wanted to say. I want you to leave my house or I will call the police.

She started walking to the door but Phillip grabbed her by the arm and turned her to face him…

I will not let you destroy my son’s life. I will not let that happen.

Let go of me.

Not until you promise me that you will leave and disappear from my son’s life again.

I said let go of me.

Liz was struggling to get free of Phillip’s grasp when Maria came from behind and started punching him hard trying to help her get free. Phillip lost his balance when Maria jumped on him giving Liz the much needed opportunity to get his hand of her. Once he hit the floor Liz went to get the phone to call the police when all of the sudden she felt a sharp pain in her head and fell to the floor holding her head.

LIZ… What’s wrong? What the matter?

Maria, my head… my head hurts… make it stop. Make it stop…

I’m going to call an ambulance, hold on sweetie… hold on…

Phillip was getting back on his feet when he heard somebody calling him…

Dad?... M… Maria? Is that you?