Roswell Fanatics

TITLE: Evil Takes a Holiday (yes, the title is a play on the movie title “Death Takes a Holiday”)

AUTHOR: Devil Kitty

DISCLAIMER: Don’t own them, just borrowing them, blah, blah, blah.

CATEGORY: Max/Liz + CC

RATING: ADULT

SUMMARY: This is the sequel to my story The Evil Within. I advise reading TEW before attempting this story, as the incidents in it directly lead to this story, as well as containing new characters that were introduced in TEW.

To read The Evil Within just click on the link in my sig


We pick up just about a month after TEW. This interlude will be shorter than TEW, dealing with the gang taking a summer trip before college. (I’m already thinking about a possible threequel )


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Evil Takes a Holiday

Chapter 1

The first Saturday in June dawned bright and sunny; hopefully as bright and sunny as the futures of the students gathered in the hallway, adjusting their caps and gowns. Inside the school’s auditorium the noise level rose and fell as the proud parents, family and friends of the Senior Class of West Roswell High waited for the beginning of commencement exercises.

Max Evans and Liz Parker walked into the staging area hand in hand, Liz carrying the note cards with her speech on them. “Liz!” She heard called and looked to see Maria near the girls restroom, waving her over. Max squeezed her hand before letting go so she could walk over to join Maria, Isabel and several other girls who were doing some last minute primping. Max saw Alex in the crowd and joined him as they waited.

Maria smiled at Liz, “Times running out, babe, speech finally finished?” Liz nodded feeling nervous at giving her Salutatorian speech before the large assembly. Liz had initially been disappointed that she had fallen short of Valedictorian, but Maria reminded her (while sharing a pint of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream) that James Baldwin had not spent the last few months being bedeviled by a couple of evil space aliens.

As they overheard one of their schoolmates comment, “Can you believe we made it? We’re actually graduating.” Maria looked at Liz and Isabel with a raised eyebrow and sotto voice, “For a while there I wasn’t sure we were actually going to live, much less pass our finals.”

Just as the girls returned to the hallway, Mr. Seligman called out in his dry voice, “People, please take your places. We want this ceremony to move forward as calmly as possible, and then I’ll never have to see your faces again.” A rare smile cracked over his face when a voice in the crowd called out, “We love you, too, man.”

At the first strains of “Pomp and Circumstance”, the auditorium quieted as the graduates marched down the aisles.

Jeff and Nancy Parker beamed with pride when their Liz stood at the podium and gave her Salutatorian speech. After she finished, Liz smiled at her parents and as she returned to her seat on the stage she looked out at Max, blushing when he blew her a kiss.

Finally the moment of the day came when the School Board Superintendent began to call out the names of the graduates as they came forward to receive their diplomas. There was applause for all the participants, but when the name of Michael Guerin was called out, Kyle Valenti and Alex Whitman stuck their fingers in their mouths to whistle shrilly as his other friends cheered. Maria Deluca was smiling and crying at the same time as she watched Michael self-consciously walk across the stage and shake hands with the Superintendent before accepting his diploma. Looking over at the faculty seating section, she caught the eye of the school counselor, Ms. Gresham. It had been Ms. Gresham who had gone to bat for Michael; taking on the school principal and Michael’s teachers to insure that Michael was given the opportunity to pull his grades up so he could graduate. Noting that Ms. Gresham was also wiping at her eyes, Maria gave her a big grin and a thumbs up.


~~~~~~~~~~~~


It was rare for the Crashdown Café to be closed on a Saturday, but the sign posted on the front door explained, “Closed for Private Graduation Party”. Inside friends and family gathered in celebration. Max and Isabel’s grandparents had driven down for their only grandchildren’s graduation, and Max proudly introduced Liz as his fiancée. Although his grandmother raised an eyebrow in surprise, “Fiancé? Phillip didn’t say a word to me about this,” she was gracious. And the elder Mr. Evans gave Liz a peck on the cheek and welcomed her to the family. In turn, Liz introduced Max to her aunt and uncle, who had flown in from Florida for the occasion.

Liz slipped around the counter to fill several glasses with Cherry Coke and one with Orange Crush. She smiled as she saw her mom, her aunt, Mrs. Whitman and both Mrs. Evans sitting at a table talking while their spouses were stationed near the coffee makers shooting the breeze.

She placed the drinks on a tray and carried them to one of the booths where Max sat with Isabel and Alex. Taking her seat, she looked over to a table where Maria and Michael sat with Kyle, Sera, and Mrs. Deluca as Sheriff Valenti and Tyler sat nearby on the bar stools. Michael grinned while watching Maria talking animatedly, Liz commented, “I can’t remember ever seeing Michael smile so much.”

Isabel turned to look, “I know, I can’t believe we never realized how much getting his diploma meant to him. I really feel bad about that.”

“Me, too.” Max agreed. “He never seemed to care about studying or classes. From the time we found Michael again, all he ever cared about was finding a way back home.”

Liz leaned her cheek on her hand, “I don’t think so, I think that deep down what Michael really wanted was to belong.” She looked at Max, “Sure, he wanted to know about your planet just as much as you did, but what he really wanted was a family.”

“Wait a minute,” Isabel objected, “Belong? What about me and Max?”

“Of course you cared about him, Isabel, but you and Max grew up with parents who love you.” Then with a look of distaste, “and Michael ended up with Hank.” Looking back at Michael who sat between Maria and Amy, she smiled as he leaned over and gave Maria a kiss on the cheek, “Michael needed to belong to a family, and now he has one.”

As she saw Kyle laugh at something Michael said, her mind wandered back to just a month earlier. Prom night, when Max had surprised her with one of the most romantic nights of her life, only for morning to bring horror when Tess and Nasedo snatched her away leading to a deadly confrontation at the pod chamber.

After Max, Michael and Tyler had disposed of Tess and Nasedo’s bodies, they had all begun the process of putting their lives back on track. Max and Liz were both relieved that Tess was finally out of their lives, and knowing how much she had hated Liz made it difficult to feel any regret at her death. But what haunted Liz was the memory of Tess’s charred body. She knew that it was in self-defense, but it was her electrical burst that had flung Tess against the Granolith, trapping her against it.

Max was also haunted by the knowledge that if Nasedo had not been bound by the encoding to protect Liz, he would have murdered her; just as he was willing to carry them all back to Antar to their deaths. Being the cause of such hatred was disconcerting, and both Max and Liz had spent several sleepless nights keeping the nightmares at bay. Max still snuck into Liz’s room most nights and stayed until dawn, holding her close and making sure she was safe.

In spite of Tess and Nasedo’s betrayal, Isabel couldn’t help but also feel a sense of loss for what Tess could have been; another female alien to share her feelings and fears with – like a sister. She remembered how excited she had been when she first met Tess, how she was immediately drawn to her, only to learn that it was all manipulated by Tess’s abilities. It had helped that she and Sera had grown closer over several long talks at the mall.

While Alex understood Isabel’s feelings of loss, his opinion leaned more closely to that of Michael and Maria. And for Michael and Maria the situation was clear-cut – Tess and Nasedo had been traitors and had reaped their just rewards. Good riddance to bad rubbish Maria had declared.

Tyler had felt sadness and anger that a Protector would turn against his charges and actively plot their deaths. Sera, having never known Nasedo and barely knowing Tess based her feelings on her knowledge of their betrayal and Tess’s use and abuse of Kyle; and she couldn’t regret that they were dead.

While it had been the Granolith that had rendered final judgment against Tess, it had been Kyle who had fired the lethal shot that had killed Nasedo that day. He knew it was something that had to be done to save his friends, and he would have done it again, but after the initial adrenaline rush faded, the fact that he had taken a life began to weigh on him.

As the days passed, they all began to slowly settle back into a normal routine of school, work and hanging out together. But Kyle remained quiet and withdrawn. Whenever his dad or Sera tried to talk with him about what happened that day, he shrugged them off denying anything was wrong. But Sera had been worried enough that she had gone to Max and Liz for advice. Max knew the one person who could relate to what Kyle was going through – Michael, who had been forced to kill Agent Pierce and had battled his own inner demons.

So Max had asked Michael to talk with Kyle. Michael had gone by to see Kyle and had found him parked in front of the TV set. He’d tried to talk about what had happened, but Kyle had denied anything was wrong. When Michael got up to leave, Kyle commented on a strange sound he’d heard in Michael’s motorcycle engine when he had pulled up. Their mutual love of engines led to them working together on Michael’s bike or sometimes on Kyle’s car. Before long Kyle listened when Michael talked about Agent Pierce, and finally Kyle opened up to Michael.

Isabel had teasingly dubbed them “The Odd Couple”, but they were both smiling nowadays, and that made the rest of them smile.


~~~~~~~~~~~~


As Maria sat proudly with Michael, her mother suddenly cried out, “Oh, honey, I forgot, a letter came for you this morning from Las Cruces. Let me get my purse.”

As her mom dashed off, Maria’s heart began to skip. Everyone else planning to attend Las Cruces had already received acceptance letters. Max, Liz, Isabel and Alex had all been accepted to other colleges, but they had already decided even before mailing out their applications that they would all try to get into Las Cruces. It was close enough to Roswell that they could return quickly should a problem arise, but far enough away from home to give them a feeling of some independence. An added plus was that by attending college instate, their parents would save on tuition expenses.

As the days had passed, Maria had just about given up on Las Cruces and was afraid she’d be forced to attend Roswell Community. Michael didn’t plan on attending college, he had already told her that wherever she went, so would he. He figured he could get a job as a fry cook just about anywhere. But as much as she loved Michael, the thought of not being with Liz and Alex was disheartening.

When Amy handed her the envelope, Maria carefully opened it up and eased the paper from inside. She took a deep breath and slowly opened the letter reading the opening lines. As soon as she saw the word “accepted”, she jumped up, her chair falling over as she squealed. “I’m in, I’m in.” She threw her arms around Michael as everyone in the café looked to see what the commotion was about. While hugging her mom, she looked for Liz, “Lizzie,” she waved the letter in the air, “Las Cruces, here I come!”

Liz rushed to hug her and Alex came over to wrap an arm around both of his girls. They had been best buds since the fifth grade and now all three were heading to the same college. Standing in a three-way hug, he was glad he didn’t have to lose either of them. Max and Isabel, who were also heading for Las Cruces, joined in the congratulations.

Kyle smiled and gave Maria a hug, but inside he felt a pang. He hadn’t even bothered to apply to any colleges - he had been so sure that he would receive a sports scholarship. When he spoke to his coach wondering why he hadn’t heard from any colleges, his coach sat him down and gave him the bald truth - he was just hadn’t been deemed a strong enough player for consideration by the scouts. The college football scouts thought he was too small, the basketball scouts felt he was too short and his recent funk during the Regional baseball playoffs had been the final blow to any athletic offers. So here he sat, Roswell Community bound, where anyone with a diploma from a Chaves County high school was automatically accepted. He just hoped that his dad wasn’t too disappointed in him.

Then he saw his pretty green-eyed, auburn haired girlfriend give Maria a hug. Sera attended Roswell Community, and he knew that he didn’t really want to go off to some strange town and leave her behind. And leave her behind he would have had to do, as she and Tyler would be remaining in Roswell since Max and Company were headed off to college. She and Tyler would be in charge of guarding the Granolith in Max’s absence.

As Sera returned to Kyle, she noted the solemn look on his face. “Feeling a bit left out?”

He shrugged and she looped her arm through his, “It’s okay, Kyle, I feel the same way. I’ve found all these friends, and now they’re going away.” She looked up at him, “and I know it’s selfish of me, but I’m glad you’re staying here in Roswell.”

“Not selfish.” He brushed his lips across hers, “Cause if I were going off to college I think I’d have to take you with me, and the Granolith be damned.” He looked over at Max and Liz who were laughing at something Alex had said, “I’m going to miss them, even El Presidente’. Roswell will pretty quiet when they leave.”

“At least we have all summer to hang out with our friends.” Then Sera ran a finger around Kyle’s ear and leaned over to whisper enticingly, “This fall, I guess I’ll just have to come up with something else to entertain you with.”

His full attention back on Sera, he asked, “Is that a promise?” Her response was just an enigmatic smile.


~~~~~~~~~~~~


Mr. Parker came through the back doors of the café and announced. “The barbeque is served.”

Liz looked at her father, “Uh, Daddy, when did you have time to cook barbeque?”

He shook his head, “I’ll probably never live it down, but I had it delivered, all I had to do was heat it up.” When Liz grinned at him, he held up his hand. “Hey, I refused to be tied up in the kitchen on my daughter’s big day.” Then he called out, “Everyone come on back and fill up your plates."

After everyone served themselves barbeque and all the fixings, the teens migrated towards each other, pulling a couple of tables together. As they ate, Kyle looked over at Max and asked, “Are we still leaving on our road trip next Sunday?”

Mr. Parker overheard as he passed by their tables, “A camping and hiking trip to Colorado just doesn’t sound like the usual Senior Class trip. I thought most of your classmates were headed off to the beach somewhere.”

What Mr. Parker didn’t know was that the purpose of their “trip” was to visit the spaceship that had brought Tyler and Sera to Earth. A spaceship they had left hidden in a cave somewhere in the mountains of northern Colorado.

Kyle looked over at Michael and Maria and winked, he then looked around the table and said, “Hey, Mr. Parker’s right, maybe we should ditch camping and just go to the beach. Tommy Johnson’s brother graduated last year and went with a bunch of the graduates to Brownsville, and said it was wild.”

Playing along, Michael asked, “How wild?”

“Well, there’s plenty of booze. He said you could cross over into Mexico and buy beer without ID.” Then with a big grin, Kyle continued, “Oh, and they even had naked limbo contests.”

“Nekkid limbo?” Maria laughed as she wiggled her eyebrows, “Hey, Lizzie, how low can you go?”

When Liz shrugged, “Well, if you guys would rather go to the beach…” Mr. Parker paled and he interrupted, “You know, I hear that Colorado is lovely this time of year, and hiking is a great healthy activity. Camping it is.” They all laughed as he walked off.

“But seriously, folks.” Alex grinned, “When are we going to finalize our plans?”

“How about tomorrow night?” Isabel suggested. “We can all meet over at Michael’s and order pizza.”


~~~~~~~~~~


After everyone had eaten, the tables were pushed back and the jukebox cranked up for dancing. During a slow number, Max held Liz tightly in his arms as they slowly moved to the music. With her arms wound around his neck, Liz admired the new golden bracelet that encircled her delicate wrist. “My bracelet is beautiful, Max, but you’re not supposed to get a gift for someone who is graduating in the same class you are.”

He gazed into her large brown eyes with a glint in his own, “Does that mean you want me to return it?”

She looked at him in mock horror as she hid her arm behind her back, “Oh, you just try, mister.” Wrapping her arm back around him, she gave him a cute pout, “But now I feel bad, Max, I didn’t get you a present.”

Nuzzling her temple with his nose, he whispered into her ear, “Actually, I was hoping you might have a little something special for me later tonight.”

Feeling the reaction that dancing so close was having on his body, she gave him a mischievous grin, “Hmmm, it feels like you have something special for me, too.”

Just before his lips touched hers, he smiled, “Always.”


~~~~~~~~~~~
TBC ~

Thanks everyone for reading my story :Fade-color

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Chapter 2


Finally as evening rolled around, Max and Liz were able to escape their friends and family for a little one on one time. As they headed for their special place, Liz gazed out the window and her mind wandered as she remembered how reluctant both she and Max had been to return to the apartment after Tess and Nasedo had kidnapped her from there.

***A couple of weeks after the pod chamber "incident", Liz decided that avoiding the apartment was not the answer and decreed that the memory of Tess and Nasedo would be wiped clean and she enlisted the help of Maria and Isabel.

Once everything was in place to Liz's satisfaction, she set out to get Max there. After receiving a call from Liz, Max had reluctantly agreed to go by the apartment to look for the evening bag Liz claimed to have left behind on Prom Night, but when he entered the apartment he stood still in surprise.

Because standing there in front of him was Liz, wearing a pretty pink summery dress with sandals on her bare feet, smiling with anticipation and more than a little apprehension in her brown eyes. "Hi.” She said shyly, and then looking around the room, “Do you like it?"

Max took in the furnishings - an easy chair, sofa, and end tables with lamps, colorful pillows and curtains. "Liz, you did this?" She nodded, "With a little help from our friends," grinning, "well, actually a lot of help." She raised her eyebrows, "You thought Isabel was Queen of the Mall? Well, she's hell on wheels at a garage sale."

As a bemused Max stepped farther into the room, he looked around as Liz practically bounced in her shoes, "So, what do you think?"

"It looks great, Liz." He assured her as he moved to her side, "But after… what happened.” He shook his head, “I didn't think you would ever want to come here again."

She slipped her arms around his waist and looked up at him, "Max, the night you brought me here was one of the most romantic nights I could have ever imagined, and I refuse to let those… those monsters take that away from us. You had Tyler extend the lease so we would have a special place, just for us. I don't want to lose that."

"I don't want to lose it either." He admitted, smiling as he bent to brush his lips over hers.

With a grin, she said with a flourish, "Let me give you the grand tour. This is the living area. Michael 'refurbished' that TV set and the DVD player."

"And it didn't blow up?" Max asked in mock surprise.

"No, and he was very proud of his work." Liz smiled, "He even gave us a gift."

"Oh, wait, let me guess… a 'Braveheart' DVD?"

Laughing she nodded. She waved her arm towards the little kitchenette, "and there's the kitchen. Isabel fixed up an old microwave we found." Max couldn't keep the smile off his face at her enthusiasm.

Then she took his hand and pulled him down the small hallway, opening the bathroom door. He peeked inside to see that she had added a little rug, toilet seat cover and matching shower curtain. A brass contraption held several towels and there were bottles of lotions and other toiletries on the counter, and he grinned when he saw the little toothbrush holder with two brand new toothbrushes, one blue and one pink.

But then Liz was tugging on his hand and opened the bedroom door. While the canopy bed remained, the bed coverings had been changed to a more neutral style and color. Before he could comment, she spoke out, "The other bedding was beautiful and romantic, Max, but you don't exactly seem to be the eyelet and ruffles type. I want you to be very comfortable," reaching up to nuzzle his jaw line, "because I intend for you to spend a lot of time here."

Shivering as her lips caressed his skin, Max closed his eyes and savored the scent that was just Liz. Then he turned his face to capture her mouth with his, and while kissing her scooped her up to carry her over to the bed. Leaning over to ease her down, he whispered, "Then let's get comfortable."***

"Liz? Honey?" Startled, she returned to the present to see they had arrived at the apartment and Max was looking at her. He smiled as he brushed her hair back, "Where were you?"

With a mischievous grin she answered, "I was just thinking about getting comfortable."


~~~~~~~~~~~~~


"Do you still have that two for one deal going?" Maria spoke into the phone, "Good, then let me have one medium beef, one medium pepperoni and two large supreme with double jalapenos on them." Hanging up she turned to Isabel and Alex, "Supper is on the way."

Looking at her watch, Isabel wondered, "Where are the others? Didn’t we agree yesterday that we were all supposed to be here at 6:00?"

Reaching for her wrist, Alex looked at her watch, "Izzy, it's only five minutes after."

Michael managed to tear his eyes away from the television and glanced over, "Oh, I forgot. Kyle called earlier and said they might be late. Sera had to work some extra hours.”

“That’s right.” Maria said, “Sera said yesterday that she had to work late today because she took off for Graduation.”

A few minutes later there was a knock at the door. As Alex let Tyler in, he apologized for being late. "That's okay, you're not last." Maria nodded towards the back window at the couple crossing the courtyard, "Here come Max and Liz now."

Sera, Kyle and the Sheriff arrived not long after the pizzas were delivered. Grabbing paper plates, everyone helped themselves to some food. Liz poured glasses of soda for her and Max, Maria sidling up beside her to ask suggestively, “Now, chica, just why were you and Max late?” Liz blushed, “Maria! We were only a few minutes late.” Maria laughed, “Just teasing, babe. But I must confess, I’m a little jealous of your ‘love nest’ across the way.” Liz looked at her in surprise, “Jealous? Why? You and Michael have the apartment here.”

Just then Kyle called out, “Guerin, is this my DVD of "Major League"?” Michael called back, “Well, yeah, you left it here the other night.”

Maria rolled her eyes, “Oh, yes, perfect for romance, if you don’t mind getting it on in the middle of Grand Central Station.”

Liz gave Maria a sympathetic look, “We do sort of treat this place like community property, don’t we? I promise the next meeting will be over at our place.”

“Your place?” Maria grinned, “Don’t you sound like an old married lady?”

Liz tilted her head and grinned back, “Don’t I wish.”

After they settled down and had a chance to eat a bit, Isabel stood and retrieved a bag pulling out the information she and Liz had been working on. She passed out folders with colored tabs sticking out, "I took all the information that Liz and I put together and made everyone a folder.” Isabel ignored Michael's groan. “We've mapped out our route and checked out websites for places along the way to camp at and points of interest.” As the gang looked at the folders then around at each other with smiles, Isabel explained. “Behind the white tab is our itinerary, the yellow tab has the maps, the red tab for campsites, and the blue tab for things to do.”

Sera looked through the neat folder, “I must say, Isabel, this is some presentation.” Alex grinned and shrugged, “You know my Isabel, organized to the nth degree.”

Giving him a smile, Isabel continued, “Now, if you will look at the map section, you’ll see that once we get to Colorado, it looks like Leadville is probably the nearest town to the area where the cave is located."

Kyle asked, “Are you sure that you were a princess back on Antar? 'Cause I’m leaning towards schoolmarm.” The others laughed as Kyle crossed his arms over his head defensively as Isabel swatted him with her folder.

Liz got up and headed to the counter to pick out more pizza slices, "Isabel and I thought we could make Leadville our base camp, so we went ahead reserved a campsite. Looks like they have some nice amenities, including a swimming pool, so be sure to pack your swimsuits. It's also close to Steamboat Springs, so we thought it might be nice to visit there."

Liz and Isabel had taken information off the Internet about things of interest in the area, and Alex pointed out. "Wow, there's hiking, fishing, rafting, lots of stuff to do.”

Isabel grinned, “And my personal favorites - shopping and laying by the pool."

"Why do we need to rent a campsite?" Michael asked. "We can just drive as close as we can to the cave, then hike in. We have all the gear we need, why can't we just find a spot somewhere and set up camp?" Michael then stuffed huge bite of pizza in his face.

"Michael!" Maria glared, "In case you haven't been listening the last couple of weeks, this is our senior trip. We want to take our time, see the sights, you know, have a little fun."

"Maria's right, Michael." Isabel agreed. "This trip is about more than just seeing the ship. After everything with Tess and Nasedo, I think we could all use some down time."

Kyle had just taken a bite of pizza, but at the mention of Tess and Nasedo, he froze for a moment. Sera rubbed a comforting hand over Kyle's shoulder and he relaxed, slowly chewing and swallowing. Max looked up at Liz as she returned to sit beside him. She smiled to show that she was fine and slid two pieces of supreme on his plate, keeping a slice of beef on her own. She took a deep breath, "So… if we're going to be on the road for several weeks, we can't afford to stay in motels all that time,” grinning at Michael, “and since camping on the roadside is not an option, we need some good camping sites, preferably ones with bathing facilities."

Michael shrugged, "Okay, so we're off on a family vacation." At Maria cocked her head at him, he shifted uncomfortably, "What? We're sort of family, aren't we?" Giving him a loud smacking kiss on the cheek, "That we are, Spaceboy."

Seeing that Michael was uncomfortable, Max took pity and looked over at the map Liz had highlighted their route on. "So, just what have you ladies planned for us?"

Isabel answered, "We thought we could do some touristy stuff in Santa Fe, so we reserved space at one of the campgrounds for our first couple nights out."

"How many cars are we going to need?" Max wondered, "I can drive the jeep."

Isabel grimaced, "Ugh, not very comfortable Max. Think we can sweet talk Dad out of the Suburban again?"

"Maybe I can borrow my mom's station wagon." Alex offered. “It's a Volvo, very safe."

"Well, there's nine of us, since the Sheriff’s not going, so we would fit in the two cars, but we’ll have a lot of gear." Max stated.

Alex looked over at the Sheriff, shaking his head, “I can’t believe you’re not going, after all we’ve been through. You can’t tell me you don’t want to see a ‘gen-u-wine’ flying saucer.”

Valenti grinned at Alex, “Believe me, I’d love too, but Max and I talked when you guys first started planning this trip.” He looked over at Maria, "Even if I was supposed to be a chaperone, I can guarantee that your mom would insist on coming along, too." He laughed as Michael and Maria looked at each other in mock horror. “So it’s better to stay behind and make sure everything here is okay."

"So what do we do about our gear and luggage?" Liz wondered.

"What about one of those U-haul trailers?" Alex wondered. "We could get a small one, the Suburban could pull it."

“Well, that would work for Isabel’s luggage.” Michael teased, “Guess we could get a second one for the rest of us.”

“Oh!” An indignant Isabel reached over to pinch Michael, who learning from Kyle’s mistake had already moved to hide behind Maria just out of her reach.

"What about a recreational vehicle?" Tyler asked. "We could rent one large enough for the trip."

"Wouldn't an RV cost a fortune?" Maria asked. Tyler shook his head, "Not for just a few weeks. I know someone out at the Spa who can hook me up with one.”

“Tyler, you’re talking about a real gas guzzler.” Kyle warned. Tyler just shrugged, “I've managed to save a bit of money over the past few years.”

Max shook his head, "Tyler, we can't let you spend your money like that."

"Max, please. Let me do this." Tyler spoke earnestly. “How about this - I'll pay for the transportation and gas, and you guys provide groceries and campground fees "

Liz smiled over at Isabel, "Guess we'd better call and change those reservations to RV sites.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


The couple rushed through the door to the small apartment hand in hand, slamming it behind them as they fell into each other's arms. Their lips fused together, they frantically pushed at each other's clothing as they turned and stumbled towards the bedroom, a task hindered by the fact that neither wanted to let go of the other. The drapes in the small bedroom were pulled to, shutting out the Saturday afternoon sun. As the last garments were removed, the couple tumbled onto the bed. Liz cried out, "Now, Max… please," and he plunged home. It was fast, it was furious and they both cried out when they climaxed together.

Their bodies falling into a crumpled heap, "Oh, God," Liz gasped out. "That was… wow."

Max pushed partway off of Liz to keep his weight from crushing her. "Oh, yeah," still breathing heavily.

Something near the foot of the bed caught her eye, and Liz began to giggle. "Max, look." He turned his head and laughed out loud when he saw that she still wore one sandal on her foot and her panties were dangling from her ankle. He sat up and removed them before leaning back on the bed to pull Liz close against him, "That's what happens when you tease the beast, Miss Parker." He savored the floating feeling that always followed their lovemaking, and the tiny electrical bursts surging through his bloodstream.

Max and Liz had spent a couple of hours earlier that afternoon visiting with Riverdog. Liz had wanted to see him before they left on their trip. As they came back into town, they had decided to take in a late afternoon movie, but Liz had innocently begun to rub her hand on Max's thigh, loving the feel of the muscle flexing as he shifted from gas pedal to brake as he drove. When her circling fingers had moved farther up and over, Max had suddenly whipped the jeep around and headed straight for the apartment. Looking at the now resting 'beast' an unrepentant Liz grinned as she murmured, "Mmmmm, remind me to tease more often," her fingers reaching out to lightly stroke Max's flat stomach as she brought her leg up to rub along his leg. Max tilted her head up to brush his lips along hers. With their foreheads pressed together, Liz asked softly, "Will it always be like this, Max? Will we always want each other?"

Cupping her face he looked deep into her beautiful brown eyes. "Yes," he said firmly, "I will want you until my dying breath." Then with a teasing look, "Of course in about 50 - 60 years we may only be able to do this on special occasions like Christmas, or our birthdays."

Liz laughed softly, "Ah, so you're saying that the spirit may be willing, but the flesh will be weak?"

Their laughter turned to sighs as they kissed. After a while, Liz glanced over at the clock and groaned, "We can't stay much longer, Max. Since we're leaving tomorrow, Mom and Dad are expecting me home to have dinner with them tonight." Liz's head fell back as Max kissed her jaw, his nose nuzzling just under her ear.

"Yeah, Mom is planning a big meal for us tonight, too." Max whispered against her skin, tugging on her earlobe. "She got a new Martha Stewart magazine this week, dinner should be quite an adventure." Feeling her shiver, he moved to recapture her mouth with his, before saying, "So we better make the most of our time."

He pulled Liz to sit across his waist, and then leaned up so his mouth could capture a nipple between his lips. Renewed desire rushed through Liz and as he tugged, she shifted to rub her wet folds against his growing erection. "Oh, yessss," she sighed as he moved his head to give her other breast equal attention. He leaned back and sliding his hands up her back pulled her down with him. Liz braced her hands on either side of Max's head as Max slid his hands to her hips to help her into position as she sank down on his shaft. He bent his knees to brace his feet as he thrust up inside her. The delicious pressure built as Liz rocked, rubbing her hands across Max's chest. As she leaned down to lave her tongue over his copper nipples, Max felt a familiar tightening. Reaching down between their bodies to thumb her little bud, he sent Liz over the edge and as she called out his name, she took him over with her.


~~~~~~~~~~


Early the following morning, Liz made her way downstairs lugging her duffle with her as she yawned. As she entered the dining room of the café, she saw her dad making coffee. "Hi, Daddy." He turned and smiled at her sleepy face. "Hi, sweetheart. All packed?" As she nodded, there was a rap on the front door. Opening the door, she stood back to allow the Evans family to enter. Phillip and Diane had driven Max and Isabel over with all their gear.

Isabel sank into a chair and with a moan laid her face down on the table, Max pulled Liz in for a hug and kiss, and Phillip walked back to where Jeff stood, "Ahhh, is that fresh coffee I smell?" Jeff smiled, as he sat a platter of Danish out on the counter. "Almost ready." He sat out some coffee cups, "Diane, Nancy will be down in just a few minutes."

Before long Alex and his dad arrived, as did Michael, Maria and Amy Deluca. The teens had all their gear piled in the center of the Crashdown as they waited the arrival of Tyler, Sera and Kyle.

"Here they come." Alex called out excitedly from where he had been peeking out the window. They all spilled out the doors as Tyler pulled up in the RV, with the Sheriff pulling up behind.

Kyle and Sera hopped out of the RV. A grinning Kyle waved his hand, "Not bad, huh?"

The excited teens dashed about examining the RV thoroughly. Tyler pointed out the features. "There's a double bed in the back, another double overhead in the front, when you remove the back cushions from the sofa it makes a single bed." He moved to the center, "The galley is small, but looks efficient. It even has a refrigerator and a microwave." He pointed out the TV and DVD player, and there was a little bathroom that even had a shower.

After storing their luggage and gear in the storage areas of the RV, the gang went back inside to find that Mr. Parker had a breakfast buffet spread out on the counter. As everyone filled plates up with bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs and pancakes, Liz hugged her dad, "Daddy, you didn't have to do all this, the pastries and coffee were enough."

"Can't have my little girl heading off without a proper breakfast." Jeff Parker grinned. "Besides, I shanghaied your mom and Diane into helping." Liz hugged her mom and Mrs. Evans before joining Max to share a platter.

As she watched Max hold up a fork full of eggs to Liz, a smiling Diane cut her eyes over at Nancy, "Were we ever that young?" "Sure we were,” Nancy responded, “but I'm afraid that Max has it all over Jeff in the romance department." Diane laughed, "Well, he certainly didn't learn it from his father."

"Hey, I heard that." An affronted Phillip objected from behind. They turned to see their husbands standing behind them. Nancy blushed when Jeff leaned forward to whisper in her ear, "You just wait and see what I have planned for the next few weeks."


~~~~~~~~~~~~
TBC

Thank you so much for the feedback Don't worry, that last chapter was as close as we get to parental nookie. LOL

Carol, don't think I can promise no tension, but that's what happens when too many people try to sleep in an RV


Author’s Note: In Chapter 2, I referenced Craig, CO, as where the gang would make their base camp – I’ve changed the location, so the new “base camp” will be in Leadville, CO, and I’ve edited Chapter 2 to reflect this change.

----------------

Chapter 3


After numerous hugs, kisses and promises to call regularly, the gang was ready to hit the road. With goodbye waves to the parents, they headed out with Tyler at the wheel. He looked back at Max who sat beside Liz on the sofa. "We just have to make one more quick stop before hitting the highway.”

Earlier Max and Tyler had decided that loading up too much camping gear in front of the parents would just bring out questions, and since they would need extra items for their trek up to the cave with the ship, they left their extra equipment at Tyler’s apartment.

Tyler pulled up into the small apartment complex where he and Sera lived. Stopping, he motioned for everyone to exit, "I have a little something extra for us to take with us." He led the way over to a parked Land Rover and with a grin. "Since we can't take the RV up the mountain trails, we need a vehicle that can go as far as possible. The Rover will hold seven comfortably," he smiled "or nine close friends."

Max looked at Tyler in surprise, "Tyler, this is… too much. Paying for the RV rental is one thing, but…” Tyler just smiled, "Max, please, I could use a new vehicle, besides the previous owner is going through a divorce and needed the money. It was a bargain."

Kyle and Michael had popped the hood and were examining the engine while Alex and Isabel sat in the front seats. Liz, Maria and Sera poked around the back.

Tyler called out. "Come on, guys, let's load up." Soon they had loaded up several backpacks loaded with tents, extra lanterns and flashlights, a small hibachi, camp stove and other items they would need once they had to leave the RV behind.

Kyle called out, "Hey, El Presidente." When Max looked over, Kyle tossed the keys to the Land Rover to him, "Want to lead us out?" As Max, Liz, Michael and Maria took seats in the Rover, the others piled into the RV.


~~~~~~~~~~~~


Leaving the city limits of Roswell behind they headed up US 285 North. Michael looked around the inside the Land Rover, "Nice. How does it handle?"

"Good. Definitely easier than the jeep, that's for sure."

"Hey, I love that old jeep." Liz commented from her seat beside Max, adding with a coy smile, "Some of my fondest memories were made there."

"Aughhhh! I do not want to know about that," Michael exclaimed covering his ears. "Now, I'll never be able to ride in the jeep again!" He leaned back and Maria laughed at the disgusted look on his face.

As Max and Liz shared a smile, Maria leaned up and cheekily asked, "Are we there yet? Are we there yet?"

Liz laughed and looked at the road map in her folder and a copy of Isabel's notes. "According to Isabel's itinerary, we are scheduled to make a pit stop in Encino to top the gas off and grab some lunch, then it's on to Santa Fe where we'll spend the night at a campground."

"Encino? That'll take hours, what if I have to pee before then?" Maria asked.

"Then you should have rode in the RV, it has a toilet." Michael informed her.

Liz laughed as Maria stuck her tongue out at Michael, "Then we will use this handy-dandy walkie-talkie that the Sheriff gave us to call the RV and tell them we are going to stop."


~~~~~~~~~~~~


As Tyler followed the Land Rover, Kyle sat in the passenger seat beside him. Sera, Isabel and Alex were playing a game while sitting around the dinette booth. Isabel had brought along a box containing a variety of board and card games, some that she and Max had had for years, plus a few games Liz and Maria had contributed.

Isabel called out to Kyle, "I can't believe you don't want to play with us, Kyle."

Kyle turned with a grin, "Call me when you play a grown up game, like Poker."

Sera admonished him, "Oh, Kyle, you are never too old to play Parcheesi."

"Just wait until we play Clue, I'll wipe the floor with you, Valenti." Alex teased. Isabel laughed, "Just don't play with Michael, he cheats and then pouts when you call him on it."


~~~~~~~~~~~~


After stopping to fuel both the vehicles and their stomachs, Liz and Maria snitched a couple of travel games from the RV and settled into the backseat. Max offered to let Michael drive the Land Rover while he rode shotgun.

Liz glanced down at the Scrabble board between her and Maria. “Maria, you can’t add ‘boy’ to my word ‘space’, that’s not a real word.” Liz laughed in objection.

“Fine, Miss Stickler, now I have to pass, cause these letters suck.” Maria gave an exaggerated pout.

“Turn them in for new ones.” Liz recommended. Maria gave her a look. “There aren’t anymore letters. Besides, you have double my points anyway.”

Liz put the game away, “Okay, do you want to play something else? We have Yahtzee or …”

Maria shrugged, “Do you have anything where I don’t want to have to think?”

“Here's some cards, play War.” Michael reached into his shirt pocket and handed a pack of playing cards to Maria. Maria in turn looked at the package, glanced over at Liz then back at Michael as she opened the box. “Uh, Spaceboy, just where did you get these cards?”

The tone of her voice was a warning and Michael looked at her in the review mirror, “From Kyle." He said slowly, "He bought them at that gas station we stopped at. Why?”

"Did you actually look at these cards?" Maria asked. "No, why?" He almost ran off the road when she shoved a card in front of his face showing a very naked lady with large breasts. “Damn, Maria, I’m driving here.”

When Max leaned over to peek, Liz objected, “Hey! Eyes to the front, Mister.” Max laughed as he turned to look back at her.

“Some Buddhist he is, with his nudie mags and now nekkid decks of cards.” Then Maria grinned evilly, “I think I’ll just ask Sera to return ‘o Buddha Boy’s cards to him.”

Max and Michael shared a commiserating look as they imagined that exchange.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~


It was late afternoon when Michael turned into the entrance of the campground site. After signing in, they were directed to their campsite and parked the RV. As Tyler and Kyle set out to attach the hook ups to the RV for power, water and cable, Isabel directed Max and Alex in unloading some of their luggage.

Michael settled in on the couch. "If I'd known we'd have a DVD player, I'd have brought some movies."

"I'm almost afraid to tell him that one of those hook ups is for cable." Alex grinned when Michael turned to him, "Cable? Do they have ESPN?"

"Oh, no." Maria tugged at Michael's hand, "Up, Spaceboy, we're getting out into the fresh air and check out the campground."


~~~~~~~~~~~


As evening rolled around, they all squeezed into the Land Rover and headed out in search of supper. Isabel had picked up several brochures with local interests from the Reservations office upon checking in, and after much debate, it was decided they would try out a local Mexican restaurant. It was a boisterous group that enjoyed burritos, tacos and enchiladas accompanied by non-alcoholic beverages.

After dinner they walked around a bit for their meal to settle. Maria squealed as she spotted a bar and grill advertising Karaoke night. “Oh, guys, come on, this will be fun.” Michael rolled his eyes, but allowed himself to be dragged inside. The place was about half empty so they had no problem pulling several tables close together.

Maria was in her element and sang song after song, garnering appreciation from the small audience. She even managed to drag some of the others up on stage. Sera held her own as she joined Maria in a rendition of 'Me and Bobby McGee', and Kyle and Alex broke everyone up as they played backup singers for Isabel as she sang Cher's "Shoop Shoop" song.

Michael and Tyler both flat refused, with an emphatic "No way in hell," from Michael. But Max and Liz took the stage laughing their way through 'I Got You, Babe'.

Finally calling it a night, they headed back to camp after stopping at a convenience store to pick up some breakfast supplies. Sera stood in the middle of the RV and looked around. "Now that we're here, where's everyone going to sleep?"

Michael heard her as he entered the RV, carrying a bag of groceries, and popped up, "Dibs on the back for Maria and me." As several faces stared at him, he walked over and started putting a few items in the fridge. He looked back, “What?”

Kyle informed him, "I don't think so, Guerin. This ain't The Love Shack."

Michael stared Kyle down, "Just what the hell is that supposed to mean?"

Tyler entered to hear their exchange and spoke up, "Actually, I had thought that perhaps the ladies could share the two double beds and the guys could just pile up out here."

Max caught Liz's eye and reached for her hand, "Umm, count us out." When everyone looked, he shrugged. "Liz and I thought we'd camp outside." Liz leaned against Max's side, "Well, sort of. We're going to put one of the air mattresses in the back of the Land Rover."

When Michael began to protest, "Well, if Max and Liz can…" Kyle cut him off, "Alright, you and Maria can have the back room." Then pointing his finger at Michael, "But no sex! I don't want to wake up to find the trailer about to tip over."

An affronted Maria cried out "Kyle!" While a surprised Sera’s mouth fell open before she exclaimed, "Oh, Kyle!"

Michael glared at his friend, "You wouldn't be saying that if it were you and Sera who…"

"Michael!" Maria yelled. "That is enough." She stood with her arms crossed, more than a little irritated by Michael and Kyle's exchange, especially when she saw the uncomfortable look on Sera's face. Taking control she turned to Isabel, "Why don't you and Alex go ahead and take the back room? Sera, would you like to share the upper bunk with me?"

Michael and Kyle just stared in disbelief as Sera smiled at Maria, "Thank you, Maria, I would." Maria glared at the two boys, "Guess what? You two can just bunk out here with Tyler." She reached into her purse, “Oh, Sera, could you return Kyle’s cards to him?” Sera’s eyes opened wide as she saw the deck of naked cards.

As Kyle’s mouth open and shut like a gasping fish, Max and Liz beat a hasty retreat out to the Land Rover as Alex and Isabel dashed into the back room.


~~~~~~~~~~~


After retrieving an air mattress and a double sleeping bag, Max and Liz settled in the back of the Rover, leaving the back glass open for air.

"Max, I forgot to get my pajamas." Liz started to climb out of the Rover, but Max pulled her back down beside him. "You won't need them." When she raised her eyebrows, he laughed, "I mean, you can wear my t-shirt." He sat up, took it off and handed it to her with a glint in his eye, leaning back on one elbow as the moonlight streamed in to highlight the planes of his chest.

Two could play this game. Liz sat up to remove her shoes, then shimmied out of her jeans and removed her blouse, reclining back on the air mattress clad in a thin camisole and lacy panties. Looking up at Max through her lashes, she sighed, "It's kind of warm tonight, maybe I'll just sleep like this." Then she stretched arching her back.

With a growl, Max pounced, capturing her lips with his. Dragging his mouth across her cheek he whispered against her ear, "You're tweaking the tiger's tail, little girl." Her mouth forming a smile, she drew her fingers down his chest, past his navel reaching the waist of his jeans. As her fingers slid lower, she nipped his bottom lip, "Oh, I intend to do more than tweak."


~~~~~~~~~~~


Sera turned over yet again, and Maria sighed and whispered. "Sera, you really want to be with Kyle right now, don't you?"

The small bunk didn't allow room to sit up, but Sera turned on her side and propped her cheek on her hand. "Not like… I mean Kyle and I haven't… well, you know." Sera sighed, "And this trip isn't what I had in mind for our first time, but I had thought maybe Kyle and I would get a chance to… be closer."

Maria grinned as patted Sera's knee, "You got it, babe." Slipping out of the bunk she eased her way over to where Kyle was contorted in the dinette booth. "Pssst, Kyle." She shook his shoulder, "Sera wants to talk to you, so shimmy up that bunk." Kyle rubbed at his eyes, "She does?"

As Kyle climbed up into the bunk, Maria moved over to the couch where her Prince Charming lay on his back snoring up a storm. Shaking her head, she climbed in between Michael and the back of the sofa, "Move over, Michael." As she tugged some of the covers over her Michael grunted, "…thought you… mad." "I am." Michael turned to spoon behind her, wrapping his arm around her waist. "Love you, 'ria." He murmured sleepily against her neck. Maria shivered and clasped his hand in hers, but retorted, "That does not get you off the hook." But she smiled as she drifted off to sleep.


~~~~~~~~~~~~


Kyle slipped into the upper bunk, whispering, “Sera?” Sera lay on her back and glanced over at him, “Yeah?”

“Maria said…”

Sera shrugged, “I just didn’t like it that everyone was upset earlier.”

Kyle had the grace to blush, “Sera, about those cards, I’m sorry. I bought them in Encino as a joke and gave them to Guerin. I didn’t look at any of them, I swear.”

“I believe you, Kyle.”

“So, we’re okay?” When she nodded with a smile, he relaxed. She turned to prop her head up on her hand, “Of course, I doubt that’s true of your biker babe magazines.”

Kyle froze, then shifted uncomfortably when she continued, “The next time you let me help clean up the house, you might want to change your own sheets.”

“Wellll… those magazines are so old, I didn’t even remember they were there.” Kyle bluffed. Sera smiled, and snuggled close as he wrapped his arm around her, “Good, then you won’t mind that I threw them away.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~


The confines of the Land Rover were pretty tight, but with Liz's assistance Max managed to shed his jeans and boxers just fine. He pulled Liz into his arms as their tongues tangled and their hands roamed to caress. Then slowly Max began sliding Liz's camisole down her body, his lips followed to caress the skin revealed along the way. Liz arched her back as he captured a perky nipple and rolled it in his mouth, the gentle tugging sending a rush of desire through her body. He shifted to pay homage to her other breast before kissing his way down her flat stomach until he had pushed the camisole to the lacy edge of her panties. In another moment, he slid the garments off and eased her knees apart to kiss her inner thighs, her scent intoxicating. With his mouth gliding over her skin to give an intimate kiss, his tongue drove her crazy. By the time he kissed and licked his way back up to Liz's mouth, she was a quivering puddle of mush. As he slipped between her legs to claim his prize, Liz's hands roamed over his back and lower, her soft murmurs of "Oh, Max," floated on the night air.


~~~~~~~~~~~
TBC

Thanks for all the feedback, it's most appreciated

RD, wish I thought of that netting before, LOL - Carol000, you think Tyler needs a woman? Hmmmmmm.

Chapter 4


Maria stretched under the covers, snuggling back down as she took a deep breath. Then half awake she sniffed. Coffee? Bacon? As she opened her eyes, she looked around and saw the bright morning sunlight streaming through the windows of the RV. Sitting up, she rubbed at her eyes and looked around to see that Kyle and Sera were already dressed and sitting in the dinette booth sipping from cups. “Morning, slugabed.” Kyle grinned at her. The back bedroom door was open with no sign of Alex and Isabel, and Michael was manning the galley whisking something in a bowl. Lying back down on the couch, she groaned, “Why didn’t you guys wake me up?”

Sera grinned, “But you looked so cute with the drool sliding down your chin.” Maria sat up, and wiped at her mouth inciting laughter from Sera and Kyle. Glancing at Michael, she saw the grin on his face as he added some milk to the bowl.

The entrance of Max and Liz saved her from responding. Looking at the two of them, both sporting bleary eyes, bed heads and yesterday’s rumpled clothing, “Lizzie, babe, you look like I feel.” Liz raised an eyebrow, “Well, I hate to tell you, Maria, but you look just as bad as I do.”

With a mock look of horror, Maria jumped up, “Noooooooo.”

Shaking his head, Max informed them, “We’re headed to the showers, soon as we find our gear. Maria, want to come along with us?”

Michael fixed them with a look as he sliced a loaf of French Bread, “I’m making French toast, so unless you want cold breakfast, don’t dawdle.”

On their way to the bathing facilities, they met Isabel, Alex and Tyler on their way back. Isabel laughed, “That nice little shower in the RV, and no one wants to use it.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~


They spent the day playing tourists in Santa Fe, including several hours visiting the shops and galleries on Canyon Road. After agreeing on a meeting place and time, they split into different directions as they entered shops that caught their interests.

As they wandered into one of the galleries, Maria noticed that even Michael seemed to be interested in some of the paintings and sculptures by the local artists. “Michael, have you tried drawing or painting anything since that dome thing?” Turning his head, “Huh? Oh, no.” He shrugged, “Guess it was just something about that calling out to me.” But an idea was put into Maria’s head and she made a mental note to get Michael some art supplies when they got back home.

Back on the street, they saw Max and Liz coming out of another shop, Liz carrying a shopping bag. “What ‘cha got, Liz?” Maria asked. Liz held up her bag as she smiled up at Max, “Max bought me a Kachina Doll.”

Dropping a kiss on her forehead, Max looked at his watch, “It’s almost time to meet the others.” The two couples meandered down the street to meet the rest of their friends for an early supper.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Since they had been out all day, the group decided to stay in camp that evening. On their way back to the campground, they stopped off at a Block Buster. Looking through the ‘pre-viewed’ DVDs for sale, Michael found a copy of “The Terminator”. Back in camp, Maria popped several bags of popcorn in the microwave for everyone to share, and soon they all settled down with popcorn and sodas and with the lights turned down low, started watching the movie.

Kyle and Sera were teased about their names being the same as the characters in the movie. As the movie unfolded, Maria wondered how come handsome naked guys never fell out of the sky around her. When Movie Kyle told Movie Sarah that he had fallen in love with her picture, before he ever came back through time, Sera commented on how romantic that was.

And then it happened – Michael opened his mouth. “Hah! Guess that makes you suck, Maxwell, after all you traveled through time just so you could dump Liz.”

There was a quick gasp from Liz and then dead silence for a few seconds before the trailer erupted in a cacophony of objections. “Michael!” Maria called his name in shock, while Kyle rolled his eyes, “Damn, Guerin.” Alex glowered, "Don’t you ever think before you speak?”

Maria looked at an ashen Liz, “ ‘chica…” Liz whispered, “Excuse me,” before dashing towards the little lavatory. A stunned Max jumped up, “Liz!” He gently tapped on the bathroom door. “Liz? Come on, honey, let me in.”

Isabel punched Michael in the arm. “Ouch!” Michael rubbed his arm and looked confused, “What was that for? I was just kidding.”

Isabel crossed her arms and glared at Michael, “Just kidding? And exactly what was funny about Liz having to give up Max to save our lives, Michael? Somehow I missed the big joke.”

“Well, they’re together now, aren’t they?” Michael stood and threw his hands up in the air before crossing over to the bathroom where Max was still imploring Liz to open the door. “Damnation. Go sit down, Maxwell, I’ll fix this.”

With a look as black as a thundercloud, Max informed him, “I think you’ve done quite enough Michael.” Max’s glare should have seared Michael’s skin.

Ignoring Max, Michael just used his powers to open the locked door, quickly sliding in and locking the door behind him. The quarters were cramped and Liz sat on the floor of the tiny shower stall, her knees drawn up to her chest and her face resting on her crossed arms. Feeling like the heel the others had called him; he pushed his hand through his hair. “Liz?”

Not raising her head, she sniffed and mumbled, “Go away, Michael. I just want to be alone.”

“Aw, damn, Liz. Look, I’m sorry, I was just razing Max. I never meant to hurt you.” Squatting down beside her, “I’m a louse, okay? No, I’m lower than a louse, I’m… I’m louse poop.”

He was relieved when Liz raised her face and cracked a teary smile at him, “No you’re not, Michael.” But his relief was short lived when she said, “What you said was the truth. FutureMax did come back to break us up.”

Michael looked heavenward as if seeking divine intervention, or possibly a bolt of lightening to put him out of his misery. Shifting to sit beside her on the floor outside the shower, he said uncomfortably, “Want to talk about it?” She shrugged, rubbing at her face, “I know that Max loves me, but Movie Kyle did cross time to fall in love with Sarah, while FutureMax came back to fall out of love with me.” Tears began to slide down her face, “What if… what if something goes wrong and the end of the world happens anyway?”

Michael felt a surprising surge of brotherly protectiveness and he awkwardly patted her shoulder, “Look, Liz, we don’t know everything that happened in that other timeline. FM never knew that Tess and Nasedo were traitors… or that you could be a part of the Four Square.” He reached over and pulled a wad of toilet paper off the roller and handed it to her before continuing, “You know we figured that once Tess left Roswell, she probably went over to our enemies and used her voodoo to manipulate things.” She nodded, and dabbed at her face before looking up at him with wet brown eyes.

“Just between you and me? I think FutureMax was full of himself.” Michael told her, “I mean, isn’t it kinda arrogant that he thought the only reason Tess left town was because of him?” He rubbed his chin, “Hmmm, maybe he was full of something else.” Liz giggled, “Michael, you’re terrible.” She reached up to hug him, “But, thank you.”

He grinned, then said seriously, “Joking aside, Liz, all we’re guaranteed is the here and now. And right now, Maxwell is sitting out there looking like he just ate a boat load of bad shrimp – and…” he looked at her with a pained look on his face, “I think he wants to kill me.”

He stood up, pulling her up with him. “Come on, let’s get you cleaned up.” He turned on the water, “If I were Isabel, I’d just swish my hand over your face, but with my luck I’d probably just move your nose out of place.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


All eyes turned to the door when it opened and Michael stepped out. He held up his hand to forestall any discussion, and moved over to allow Liz to exit. Max pushed Michael aside and reached for Liz, worry on his face, “Liz…baby.” She stepped into his embrace, “Max.” He quickly opened the back bedroom door and ushered her inside, closing the door behind them.

“Oh, great, Guerin.” Kyle grumbled, “Now Max is going to have to prove just how much he loves her. We’ll be lucky if we don’t get electrocuted again!”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Upon entering the back room, Max scooped Liz up to lay her across the bed, then climbed up to stretch out beside her, pulling her into his arms. “Liz, I’m so sorry…” She pushed her fingers against his mouth and shook her head, “Max, you have nothing to be sorry for, I’m the one who overreacted.”

He cupped her face, “I promise, if you were taken from me, I would cross time and space, I would move Heaven and Hell,” he dropped tiny kisses on her face as he spoke, “nothing would keep me from finding you.” His face earnest, he gazed deeply into her eyes, “Liz, I love you. I’ve always loved you. You are my everything.”

Fresh tears formed in her eyes, “And you are mine.” She gave him a tight hug, before pulling back, wiping her eyes. “I know that you aren’t ‘him’, but when Michael made that joke, it just hit a nerve I didn’t even know I had.” She lifted her shoulders in a slight shrug.

“Liz, I know how hurt you were when ‘he’ came back, when he told you...” Guilt colored Max’s voice, guilt on behalf of a man that he would never become. His head fell back on the pillow. “I just don’t understand how…” He looked at her with sorrow in his amber eyes, “They were together all those years. My God, Liz, how could he have left her?”

Liz shifted to snuggle up tightly against him, her cheek on his chest. The steady beat of his heart was calming. “He didn’t think he had a choice, Max. Everyone was dying, your enemies were taking over Earth.” She smiled, “But Michael reminded me that in that timeline, they didn’t know that Nasedo lived and that he and Tess were traitors. There’s no telling what they did to help your enemies.”

Max sighed, “At least we don’t have to worry about them anymore.” He sifted his fingers through Liz’s hair, over and over. The movement was hypnotic, yet arousing to both of them. Liz looked up at him, eyes growing heavy with desire and whispered huskily, “Max, after you saw me and Kyle that night, I think he felt what you felt, his face… he was so sad. And when we danced? I just knew that he loved her, he loved her to the end.”

Max rolled her over onto her back and partially covered her body with his, brushing his lips over hers he whispered, “Just as I will love you to the end, Liz. No matter what happens,” he vowed, “I’ll never leave you.”

And then just as Kyle predicted, Max proved to Liz just how much he loved her.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


The following morning there were several knowing smiles cast in Max and Liz’s direction, but their friends kept their teasing to a minimum as they prepared to head out on their way to Colorado. With Tyler at the wheel of the RV, Maria, Isabel and Sera settled around the dinette booth while Alex took the wheel of the Land Rover with Kyle riding shotgun.

Max stood with Liz just outside the doorway of the RV. “You’re sure you’re okay?” He asked quietly. “I’m fine, Max.” she assured him. He stood facing her with his arms around her waist, her hands on his shoulders. “I can ride with you guys today.” He offered. She shook his head, “No, you go ahead with the guys, we’re having a girls morning.” He glanced at Tyler behind the wheel, and seeing his look, Liz grinned. “Today, Tyler is an honorary girl.”

“Did you tell him that?” They laughed softly. When Alex blew the horn of the Rover, Max told her, “You know if you need anything, all you have to do is call me on the walkie-talkie.” She nodded. He bent his head to kiss her. As their kisses lingered, Michael called out, “For God’s sake, Max, get in the car. You aren’t going off to war.”

Max pulled back and glared at Michael. “Max,” Liz laughed, “he’s right.” She turned and entered the RV and looked back over her shoulder, “See you in Colorado.” A grinning Max loped over to climb into the Land Rover.

They once again headed north on 285. Michael glanced back at the RV following behind them. “So, Max,” he smiled, “based on the moans I heard during the night, I’d say all is well in Lizland?”

Max rolled his eyes, Kyle objected, “Damn, Guerin, no one wants to hear about that. Isn’t it enough that we lived through it?”

“Guys, for a rare moment we are female free. What else are we going to talk about? It’s either sex or sports, and hockey season is over.” Michael stated.

Max looked over at him, “Michael, do I have to remind you that any sex talk we hear from Alex is going to involve Isabel?”

Michael shuddered, “Ugh, not a place I want to go.” Then he brightened. “Okay, that leaves you, Valenti. You and Sera get past the kissy-face stage?”


~~~~~~~~~~~


Back in the RV, the girls decided to play “Life”. Isabel landed on a space marked ‘congratulations, baby boy’. “Awwww, Isabel,” Liz held up the little blue stick and teased, “he looks just like Alex.”

“Speaking of babies,” Maria popped up, “I brought along a big box of condoms, so if anyone needs …”

“Aughhhhh,” Tyler cried out, “My ears!”

As the other girls laughed, Sera leaned her chin in her hand and grumbled, “Well, don’t look at me. I don’t think I’m ever going to need them.”

The girls looked at her sad face and then each other. Maria looked at Sera, “So what’s the hold up? I can’t believe that Kyle is reluctant. I mean, he’s a guy and that’s pretty much all it takes.”

Tyler looked back in the mirror, “Did I mention my ears?”

Maria smiled, “Just shut up and drive, Tyler.” She rose from the table and opened the refrigerator removing two pints of ice cream from the small freezer. Grabbing four spoons, she returned to the booth.

Seeing the ice cream, Tyler just shook his head with a slight smile; he knew he’d be better off just concentrating on the road.

Isabel motioned for Sera to continue. Sera shrugged, “It just seems like everything has conspired against us.” She took a spoon from Maria, “We got past learning about Tess ‘using’ him and him learning the truth about me, and I thought we were getting closer. But then he started pulling away. I though that he had second thoughts about me being…”

“Green around the gills?” Maria opened up a pint of Butter Pecan.

Sera nodded, “But he finally confessed that he was afraid I’d get flashes of what Tess did to him if we got too ‘close’. Just when we had crossed that bridge the whole pod chamber and Nasedo happened.”

“Poor Kyle,” Liz said, as she dipped into the carton of Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, “Tess and Nasedo really did a number on him.”

“So says the woman they kidnapped.” Maria pointed her spoon at Liz. But Liz shook her head, “Tess hated me because I was between her and her goal of being with Max, but what she did to Kyle was just…” her voice trailed off.

“Evil.” Maria finished.

Sera nodded, “I know that, and I’m trying to be patient and understanding, but before that day at the Pod Chamber we were at least hitting a few triples, now he barely attempts to reach second.” Burying her face in her hands, Sera groaned, “Listen to me, I sound like some slut-wannabe.”

“No, you don’t.” Isabel told her as she licked the ice cream off her spoon. “You love Kyle and it’s natural for you to want to express it on a physical level.”

They ignored the groan coming from the driver’s seat.

“That’s not so easy with seven other people always around,” Maria commiserated as she stuck her spoon in her mouth. “Ummmm.”

Isabel contemplated, “We just need for the two of you to have a little alone time.” She smiled, “Just leave everything to me.”

“Uh oh,” Maria looked at Liz, “she’s getting that ‘Organizers R Us’ look in her eyes.” Liz looked between Isabel and Sera, “Uh, Isabel, I don’t think this is a situation you can organize with lists and schedules. Their first time should be special and romantic.”

Maria grinned at Liz, “Well, we can’t all have access to a UFO Center.”

As Liz spluttered, Isabel waved her and Maria off as she looked at Sera. “Don’t worry, ‘Special’ is my middle name. Trust me, it’ll be perfect.”


~~~~~~~~~~~


A similar conversation was taking place in the Rover, although a lot less delicately phrased. “Look, Kyle,” Michael opened a bag of Flaming Hot Cheetos, offering some to Max, “for some reason Sera actually wants you. Now that makes me wonder about her mental faculties, possibly something went wrong in her pod, however…”

Max and Alex laughed as Kyle glared at Michael, “Gee, in that case, we’d better drop Maria off at the nearest insane asylum.”

Michael just shrugged him off, “Seriously, man, I know Tess was a traitor and a bitch and all, but you are going to have to put that behind you. If you let what happened with Tess and Nasedo keep you from being with Sera, then your dick just might as well shrivel up and fall off.”

The other three mentally cringed at that thought, and Max rubbed at his head, “Crudely put, but Michael does have a point.”

“Crude, schmude. You just need to get her alone, Kyle, and take care of business. So, we’ll just arrange for you two to get a room or something.” Michael suggested as he reached back to retrieve a bottle of Snapple out of a small cooler.

“Michael, he can’t just drag her off to some room.” Max told him. “A girl wants her first time to be special.”

Michael raised an eyebrow, “Oh, you mean like the floor of the UFO Center? At least I took Maria to my apartment.”

Max had the grace to blush as he mumbled, “It wasn’t on the floor,” he punched Michael’s arm, “and we aren’t talking about me and Liz.”

“Do you want to talk about me and Isabel?” Alex grinned into the rear view mirror. “Let’s see, it was a starry night, the moon was as round and full as Isabel’s…”

“Stop!” from both Max and Michael. Alex laughed out loud.

“Uh, guys, remember me?” Kyle grumbled from his seat, “Sera is special and I’m not going to embarrass her by dragging her to some No-tell Motel.”

Michael mused, “Hmmm, too bad we didn’t take 285 South again, we could have stopped at that Aladdin porno motel.” When Kyle growled, “Guerin!” Michael laughed as he held his hands up in submission, “Okay, okay, special it is.” Grinning at Kyle, “Don’t worry. We’ll come up with the perfect plan. Trust me.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
TBC

Thank you guys so much for the feedback, you’re great.

Chapter 5

The walkie-talkie crackled and the guys heard Maria’s drawling voice, “Breaker, breaker, this is the Lonesome Dove, looking for a Space Cowboy,” followed by the giggles of the other girls.

Alex grinned as Michael reached between the front seats to grab the device, responding, “Ha, Ha, Maria. Very Smokey and the Bandit of you.”

“Awww, you’re no fun. Listen, we called because we’re hungry.”

“Hungry?” Michael said in disbelief. “You’re in an RV full of food. How can you be hungry?”

“We don’t want Cheez Doodles, we want hamburgers.”

Alex looked at Michael in the mirror, “Wouldn’t hurt to top off the gas.”

Michael ignored him, “I thought our next stop was Monte Vista.” Then he asked with a touch of sarcasm in his voice. “Won’t Isabel have a conniption if we deviate from the ‘itinerary’?”

Isabel’s voice came back, “Don’t make me hurt you, Michael. Just find us somewhere to stop.”

A short while later, just south of Alamosa, Colorado, they pulled into a small truck stop. Max suggested, “Alex, let’s gas up first, then we’ll get some lunch.” As Alex pulled up to a set of pumps, the RV did the same nearby. Leaving Max and Tyler to fill up the vehicles, the others made their way over to the restaurant. Entering, they found the place busy as a mixture of truckers and locals ordered lunches. Looking at the waitresses clad in blue jean miniskirts, cowboy boots and plaid shirts tied to show their midriffs, Maria grimaced at Liz. “And we thought the antennae were bad. No matter what the service is like, our waitress is getting a good tip.” Liz nodded in agreement.

They found a large table in the back of the dining room and before long a couple waitresses had delivered burgers, fries, onion rings and pitchers of Coke. Although there was a large bottle of Tabasco sauce on the table, Isabel sneaked a couple of extra bottles from her bag to the other “Czechs”.

Dipping a fry into some catsup, Maria leaned over the table, “Isabel,” she whispered, “Don’t look now, but I think that guy at the counter is checking you out.” As Isabel started to turn her head, Maria reprimanded in a loud whisper, “I said don’t look now!” Giving Maria a frown, Isabel pretended to drop her napkin and as she retrieved it, she cut her eyes over to see a stocky but not unattractive man dressed in jeans, boots and a red plaid shirt looking her way in admiration of how she filled out her red tank top. Catching her eye, he tipped his head and reached up to touch the bill of his cap.

She whirled back around, her ponytail flying, “That guy in the red ball cap?” She asked. Maria nodded, “He’s still looking.” She teased, “Maybe he’s a rich rancher looking for Ms. Right.”

“In that shirt?” Isabel said raised eyebrows, “I don’t think so”.

“Hey,” Kyle objected, “I think I’ve got a shirt like that at home.”

She grinned at Kyle, “I rest my case.”

Alex shook his head in mock sadness. “Tsk, tsk, Isabel, your fashion snobbery raises it’s ugly head yet again.”

“Yeah, Isabel, he’s wearing jeans and boots, not much call for a designer shirt there.” Maria admonished with a grin.

Isabel made a face, “Fine, he’s western chic.” But gave Alex a stern look, “You, however, will be punished later for that snob remark.” Waggling his eyebrows, he grinned, “Will there be spanking involved?” Isabel blushed as she swatted him, and Max held up his hands to cover his ears, “TMI!”

Kyle looked at him in disbelief, “TMI?” Putting his thumb and pinkie beside his face mimicking a phone, he said, “Hello?” He then looked at Max, “Hey, Kettle, it’s the Pot, he says you’re black.” Michael and Alex laughed out loud as the others grinned while Max rolled his eyes.

After finishing their meal and paying their bill, they made trips to the restrooms before heading back out. Liz exited the ladies room and immediately bumped into someone. “Oh, I’m so sorry,” she apologized. She saw that she had run into the man from the counter that Maria had teased Isabel about. He smiled at her, “No problem little lady.” Liz reached for his hat that had fallen, and just as she lifted it to him, she froze as a series of images flashed through her mind. Not noticing, the man took his hat from her with a polite “thank you, ma’am” as he moved on down the hallway.

Maria immerged from the ladies room to see Liz standing still in the hall, a vacant look on her face. “Liz?” She gently grabbed Liz’s arm, “Lizzie?” There was no response. Just then Kyle exited the men’s room and Maria called quietly, “Kyle, get Max, now!”

Liz came to herself and sagged against Maria as Max hurried down the hallway. “Liz!” Max reached for her, and looked at Maria, “What happened?” Maria looked at a shaky Liz, “I think it was another of those psycho-meter things.”

Max brushed Liz’s cheek, “Was it?” Liz nodded, and Max put his arm around her to lead her back to a table. But when they entered the dining room, Liz looked around in alarm, “Oh no!” and she broke away to dash out the entrance. She stood in the parking lot looking around wildly. “Where did he go?”

Max grasped her arm, “Liz! What’s wrong?” Liz was still frantically looking around the parking lot. “I don’t see him anywhere.” She pulled away from him and dashed towards the gas pumps.

Max ran to stop her, and held her by both arms. “Liz! Look at me.” he implored. She looked up at him, “Max, we have to find him, I saw… I saw…”

By this time the rest of their group had crowded around her and Max. “Liz,” Maria asked, “What did you see?”

“I saw a girl murdered.” Liz stated a distressed expression on her face.

“What?!” Kyle exclaimed.

“Shhhhh. Wait a minute.” Alex noticed that some of the patrons around the gas pumps were eyeing them with curiosity. “We’re a little conspicuous standing out here in the open. Let’s get inside the RV.”

Tyler cranked up the RV and turned on some air as they found seats. Max sat on the couch beside Liz holding her hand in his, “Okay, Liz, tell us what happened.”

Liz took a deep breath and spoke softly, “In the hallway I bumped into someone, it was that guy from the counter in the red ball cap.” Maria glanced over at Isabel, “The one staring at Isabel?” Liz nodded, “When we collided, his cap fell off and I picked it up, and I saw things, through his eyes.” She was visibly upset, “I saw a young girl, about 15 or 16, and she had long blond hair. She was smiling as she climbed up into a truck… and then it changed and I could see his hands as he grabbed, and her face… so scared... and then he strangled her, her fingers were clawing at his hands.” She began to cry.

Max wrapped his arms around her and pulled her trembling body against him. With worry on his face he looked over Liz’s head at the others, “What should we do? Call the police?”

“And tell them what, Maxwell?” Michael asked not unkindly. “That Liz saw an unknown trucker strangle an unknown girl in an unknown place because she had a psychometric experience? Not to mention it would put a crimp in us keeping a low profile.”

“I think I could identify the girls,” Liz whispered, “I saw their faces.”

“Girls? As in plural?” Isabel asked in surprise.

Liz nodded, “All blond. But there’s more, I think I may have also seen something that hasn’t happened yet.”

“Wait, you saw the future?” Maria exclaimed. At their shocked faces Liz shook her head as she ran her fingers through her hair, “I’m not sure. I saw the truck pulling over to pick up another girl, a hitchhiker, and there was a bag on the dashboard, a bag from this truck stop. I just don’t know if it’s already happened.”

Kyle looked at Michael, “I thought that psychomotor thing was about the past.”

“Psychometrics.” Michael said automatically. “Besides, it’s not an exact science, perhaps with Liz’s alien boost it works both directions.”

Maria looked around, “What are we going to do? This guy’s picking up girls and killing them!” Then she gasped, “Oh my God! He was looking at Isabel.”

Isabel shivered as Sera looked at her and whispered, “Another blond.”

Alex reached out to pull Isabel close to him. “Maria’s right, Max. We can’t just go merrily on our way now that we know. There must be something we can do.”

“Maybe there is.” Tyler looked at Max. “This place might be a regular stop for him, so maybe the staff knows who he is.”

Max nodded, “Could be.” He looked at Maria and Isabel, “Why don’t you two go talk to the waitresses and see if you can find out who this guy is.” As Maria and Isabel stood up, he added, “and try to find out if he got an order to go today.”

Alex spoke up, “I’m going to check out the Internet and see if I can find news reports of missing girls in the area.” He moved over to set up his laptop at the dinette table.

Michael stood up, “Come on, Kyle, let’s poke around outside.”

Liz looked up at Max, confusion in her eyes, “Why is this happening, why him? The only other time it happened was about Nasedo. I thought it was just an alien thing.”

Max brushed his lips over her forehead, “I don’t know, baby. I guess your powers are developing, getting stronger.”

She looked at him with sad eyes, “Why couldn’t I have seen something happy?”

“Because happy people generally don’t need help?” Sera moved over to perch on the edge of the sofa on the other side of Liz. She said softly, “Liz, I don’t claim to understand why this is happening, but because of what you saw – maybe we can stop this guy before he hurts anyone else.”

Liz nodded, “You’re right, maybe it’s not be too late for that last girl I saw.”

Sera suggested, “Why don’t you write down everything you can remember from the flashes? Maybe you could jot down some notes on the descriptions of the girls you saw.”

Max smiled at Sera, “That’s a good idea.” When Sera stood to get a pen and paper, Max looked at Liz, “If you write it down, you might remember more.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Isabel and Maria entered the restaurant; the main lunch rush had quieted down. Taking seats at the counter, they ordered several drinks to go. Maria started up a conversation with one of the waitresses by telling her that she was a waitress at a café in Roswell, New Mexico. After the usual ‘ever seen an alien’ jokes, they were able to bring the conversation around to the trucker, mentioning how he kept staring at Isabel.

“Not surprising, Waylon always did have an eye for the blonds.” The brassy haired waitress with the nametag ‘Trixie’ smiled at Isabel before shaking her head, “Not that it ever did him much good.”

Giving her a questioning look was all it took for Trixie to begin to dish on Waylon’s love life or more to the point - lack thereof.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


When Michael saw Maria and Isabel on their way back to the RV, he thanked the trucker he was talking to and he and Kyle also headed back. They entered the RV just as Maria handed Liz a cup, “Here, Liz, I figured you could use something warm and sweet, so I got you some hot chocolate.” Liz smiled her thanks.

“What did you guys find out?” Max asked. Michael shrugged, “Not much. Mostly just got a lot of suspicious looks. All we found out is that he’s a trucker and stops in here all along.”

“Well, we had better luck.” Maria grinned, “One of the waitresses couldn’t wait to dish.”

“That “Trixie” has to be one of the gossipiest women on the planet.” Isabel added shaking her head.

“Tyler was right, our guy is a regular here, by the name of Waylon Masters.” Maria told them. “Grew up a couple of counties over, he was the high school quarterback who took his team to State his senior year and was his home town’s favored son.”

“That chunky guy?” Kyle asked with some surprise.

“Well, it was a few years ago.” Isabel told him. “He even got a college scholarship. Before leaving for school, he married his high school sweetheart. She was a cheerleader, Homecoming Court, Prom Queen. So they headed off to college, but Waylon blew his knee out in the first season, so goodbye football and goodbye scholarship.”

Maria picked the story back up, “So they come back home, he had trouble finding a steady job and the Missus wasn’t happy. She was expecting to live the exciting life of a football star’s wife, so she didn’t take to well to being the wife of a ‘has been’. Before long she bailed on him and headed off to Hollywood, never to be heard from again. Not long after that, he took up trucking.”

“Don’t suppose the wife was blond, was she?” Alex asked. Isabel nodded, “Afraid so.” Isabel looked towards Liz, “Trixie said that he comes through a couple of times a month, and he always gets an order for the road. So the bag you saw may not have been from today.”

Kyle shook his head, “Man, this is classic serial killer stuff. His wife dumped him and now he’s killing her over and over through these girls.”

“No one ever heard from the wife? Not even her family?” Sera looked a little nauseous. “Maybe she never made it to Hollywood at all. Maybe she was victim No. 1.”

“Damn,” Michael said, “I wish the Sheriff were here.”

Rubbing his chin, Max looked over at Kyle. “Kyle, why don’t you call your dad and fill him in, maybe he can go through police channels to find out about missing girls in the area.” Kyle retrieved his cell phone and moved into the passenger seat to make his call.

Liz looked at Maria and Isabel. “Were you able to find out where this guy was headed?”

Isabel shrugged, “All Trixie knew was that he was headed for Denver to pick up some cargo.”

“Denver?” Michael looked around at the somber faces. “Guess we’re taking a detour.”

“And do what?” Alex asked. “Stop at every truck stop to see if he’s been there?”

Maria jumped up, “I’ll be right back.” She dashed back to the restaurant. “Maria!” Michael took off after her.

“Max!” Hearing his name he turned to see Kyle holding up the phone, “Dad wants to speak with you.”

While Max moved to take the phone, Alex looked over at Liz. “I’ve found a couple of news stories about missing girls. There was a blond teen from Denver about six months ago, and about a year before that a girl went missing from Alamosa. Both stories refer to them as runaways. I’m pulling up the Alamosa teen’s photo now.”

Liz stood beside him, a hand on his shoulder as the picture downloaded; a pretty young girl with long blond curls. With an intake of breath, her hand squeezed his shoulder as she whispered, “Oh, Alex, I saw her, and now she’s dead.”

~~~~~~~~~~~
TBC ~

Thanks to all who have left feedback, and welcome to the newbies. I know that I personally stink at leaving feedback, so I want y’all to know that I also appreciate everyone who has popped in to read my story.

Ladybold, that’s so cool that you live near Alamosa. (I must confess, I just pulled the names of the cities in the story off the map, so apologies to those of you in the Colorado area for any inaccuracies)


Chapter 6


Max called Alex’s name and held up the phone, “Valenti wants to speak with you. He needs your email so he can send us whatever information he can find.” While Alex took the call, Max joined Liz where she stood arms folded across her chest as she gazed at the picture of the young deceased teen.

He placed his hands on her shoulders, and gently squeezed. “Liz, don’t do this to yourself.” She looked over her shoulder at him and he slid his arms around her waist, “I know you, Liz. You’re wondering why couldn’t this happen sooner, then maybe we could have saved her.”

Liz leaned back against his chest, “I know its irrational, but…” She was interrupted as Maria and Michael returned to the RV. Maria smiled, “I found out who he works for, it’s a small trucking outfit out of Denver called ‘Haygood Hauling.’ Maybe we could call them with some excuse and get his route.”

Michael agreed, “We could say we found his wallet or something.” Alex shook his head, “No, they’d just radio him and he’d say that he has his wallet. Then he’d just wonder about who made the claim.”

Michael looked up as he blew out a breath, “So we’re back to hitting all the truck stops?”

“Maybe not.” Alex glanced over at laptop. “Even though the company is small, they probably have a website, and if they do, I should be able to hack in. I bet they also have a single computer system they use for everything. Maybe I can access their shipping information.” He looked up at Isabel, “Izzy, where did I stash my hacker bag?” With a grin at him, Isabel pointed to a cabinet where Alex removed a black nylon bag and took out several pieces of electronics.

Max looked around, “Okay, while Alex works on that, I think we should head on out for Denver. This guy already has over an hour’s head start on us.”

Within minutes, they headed out as Michael, Maria, Kyle and Sera took the lead in the Land Rover with everyone else riding in the RV.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


While Alex worked at the computer, Isabel tried to distract Liz by getting her and Max to play a game with her, “How about some Parcheesi?” But Liz shook her head, “I’m sorry, Isabel, I wouldn’t be able to concentrate.” Isabel nodded in understanding. “That’s okay. Why don’t you go and lie down in the back, maybe you can take a nap.”

Sleep was the last thing Liz could imagine, but she stood to move to the back. Max also stood up, “I’ll join you for a bit.” He turned to look at Isabel, “Come get me if Alex learns anything.”

Liz kicked off her sandals and climbed up to stretch out on the bed. Kicking off his own shoes, Max joined her, stretching out on his back to pull Liz up against his side. With her head on his shoulder she whispered, “You were right, Max. I know that I’m not being logical, because the only way I get these visions is by touching something, and without this trip we’d have never even come in contact with this guy, but I can’t help but feel guilty. All those girls.”

He nuzzled her temple, “I understand, Liz, but you can’t blame yourself for something that has already happened. The only guilty party is this Waylon Masters, and we’re going to do everything we can to stop this guy.”

She spoke softly, “Sort of like Tom Joad in The Grapes of Wrath? ‘Doing good deeds and avoiding the law.’ Maybe Sera’s right and that’s why this is happening,” she looked up at him, “so we can do some good in the world?”

He smiled and brushed her cheek, “Could be. Who know, maybe we’re the Scooby gang after all.”

She shifted to rest her head on his chest. The steady sound of Max’s heart under her ear and motion of the RV as it headed down the road was soothing and Liz was becoming drowsy. “We’re missing the alligators.” She whispered. Max glanced down, “Uh, alligators?” Rubbing her cheek against his tee-shirt, she answered, “Kyle wanted us to make a stop at the Colorado Alligator Farm, he wanted to see Chomps O’ Lot.”

“Ahh,” Max smiled, “Well, maybe we can stop by on our way back home.”

“He said they even have Jello shaped like little green alligators.” Liz mumbled sleepily. Liz drifted into a light sleep, and Max grinned as he looked down on her sleeping countenance. But his grin faded as he felt a pang of guilt. This was happening to her because of him. Oh, he knew that if he had not healed Liz in the diner that day, she would have bled out before the EMT’s arrived, her life snuffed out by a stray bullet. The mere thought that he could have lost her that day… well, that was just too painful to imagine. But the fact remained that everything that had happened to her since that day was a result of what he was. Nasedo told them that their powers were human, just boosted by a thousand years or so by their genetic engineering, a fact that had been confirmed by Tyler. So was it the healing alone that jump-started Liz, or the healing combined with the high fever she suffered after the bus accident? Either way, because of him she had been drawn even deeper into the alien abyss.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Maria sat in the passenger seat and gazed silently out the window, the scenery passing unseen. Michael looked over as he drove down the highway. A quiet Maria was an anomaly, but her silence spoke volumes; he knew she was worried about Liz, worried about all of them.

Kyle’s voice broke the silence, “So what’s the plan? When we catch up to this guy, I mean. It’s not like we can make a citizen’s arrest. We have no proof.”

“Then we’ll get some.” Michael stated baldly. “When we find his truck, we separate him from it, and get Liz in. Maybe she can get a sense of something we can use.”

Maria just stared at him, “Oh, Michael. You can’t do that to her. Just touching his cap sent all those girls through her brain. Who knows what touching that truck might do to her.”

Michael shook his head, “I don’t like it either, Maria. But Kyle’s right, we got nothing on this guy. We can’t call the police without some kind of evidence. Now for some reason, Liz got those visions, and I’m betting she’ll insist on doing whatever it takes to find out whatever we can.”

“I know that, Michael, and that’s what worries me.” Maria pushed her hand through her hair. “Liz won’t hesitate, but you saw how she was after that last vision, and we don’t know how these visions might affect her.”

Kyle leaned forward, “Hey, don’t forget, we’re talking about the girl who saved the world. There’s a lot of strength in that little package. Besides, I’m not a cop’s son for nothing. I say that before we initiate LizzieVision, we see what we can find out with some plain old fashion snooping.”

“Kyle’s right,” Sera agreed, “maybe there are some clues that we can find without putting Liz through a bunch of alien hoops.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~


Isabel eased the door open, and seeing them laying there apparently asleep, she hated to disturb them. “Max?” She whispered. He immediately opened his eyes and looked her way; obviously he had not been asleep. She motioned back towards the interior of the RV, “Alex has something.” Max eased off of the bed, taking care not to disturb Liz, who mumbled and reached for him. “Shhhh,” he soothed.

As Max and Isabel joined Alex at the dinette table, he looked up from the computer with a grin, “Man, does this place need to beef up their security, they don’t even have any security cameras.” At Max’s raised eyebrows, Alex continued sheepishly, “But… uh… good thing for us they don’t.”

“What did you find out?” Max asked. Alex pointed to the screen. “Our guy is headed to Denver all right. He’s scheduled to pick up a trailer in the morning designated for Akron.”

“Ohio?” Max asked, but Alex shook his head, “No, Akron, Colorado.” Max nodded, “Good work, Alex. At least we know we’re headed in the right direction.” He flipped one of Isabel’s folders open to look at a map, “I don’t think I’ve ever heard of Akron. What’s there?”

Alex shrugged, “I’m not really sure. I think that there’s farming, cattle, stuff like that.”

“And maybe a blond teenaged hitchhiker.”

At the husky soft-spoken words, Max, Alex and Isabel turned to see Liz standing in the doorway of the bedroom. She joined them at the dinette table, slipping in to sit beside Max. Looking at Alex she asked, “What else did you find out?”

“Not only was I able to access the company’s route schedules, but also Masters’ personnel record. I got his social, birth date, even his criminal background check. Which came back clean, by the way.” Alex handed Liz a print out, “He lives in a suburb of Denver, I pulled up Mapquest and punched in his address to get directions.” Alex looked at Max, “Masters also borrowed money from his employer to purchase his pickup truck, and so they had a full description of the vehicle, including VIN and tag number.”

Isabel looked at Max, “Maybe we could check out his place.”

Tyler looked back at them in the rearview mirror, “What about our reservations, Isabel? We’re definitely not making Leadville tonight, and we’ll need somewhere to stay.”

She reached for her cell phone, “I’ll call the RV park in Leadville and let them know we’ll be a day or two late, arrange for a hold on a campsite.” Looking at Alex she asked, “Can you pull up the Denver area, look for a place for us there?”

Max moved to the passenger seat and picked up the walkie-talkie, “I’ll call up to Michael in the Rover and bring them up to speed.”


~~~~~~~~~~~

Seeing a sign advertising ‘food and gas’, Michael pulled off the main highway and found a gas station. Everyone met briefly in the RV to discuss their next step.

“Now that Alex found out where this guy lives, we need to check him out, but…” Michael looked around the RV, “we’ll be a little conspicuous holding a stake out in this thing.”

“And nine people crowded into a Land Rover is going to be a bit suspicious, too.” Kyle pointed out.

“Then we’ll just have to split up.” Max stated. “We’ll work in shifts.”

“We need another car.” Alex pointed out, “Otherwise, we could lose him if he leaves while we’re moving between the RV and his place. I can reserve one online for us to pick up in Denver.”

“Plus, with two cars we can check out the trucking company at the same time.” Michael noted.

“So what do we do if he leaves home tonight?” Kyle wondered. Max looked at him, “We follow, and if he picks up any girls, we find a way to separate them.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~


It was early evening when they rolled into the outskirts of Denver. Max drove the RV with Liz beside him in the passenger seat. While Max and the rest drove to the RV Park, Alex and Isabel rode with Tyler in the Land Rover as they headed to the rental place to pick up the car Alex had reserved.

The RV had been checked in and the gang had finished the hookups and they were discussing supper options when the Rover finally arrived with Alex following at the wheel of an older brown Taurus sedan.

“What took you guys so long? The girls were getting worried.” Michael complained, as Liz and Sera looked at each other and rolled their eyes. “And could you have chosen an uglier car?”

Alex grinned, “Last minute renters can’t be choosers, Guerin. And we’re late because I bought you a present.” He handed Michael a bag. “While waiting on the paperwork, I noticed an army surplus store near the rental place. I saw these in the window and just couldn’t resist.” Michael pulled out a set of binoculars. “These are cool.” Alex shook his head, “Better than cool, my friend, they’re night vision. I got us some other goodies, too.”

Maria poked her head out the door of the RV and grinned, “Put your toys away, boys. Michael, set up the grill.”

While everyone else gathered at a nearby picnic table and shared a simple supper of hotdogs, potato chips and cookies for desert, Alex sat inside the RV at the dinette table working on some of the electronic equipment he purchased at the Army Surplus store. “Alex?” Isabel entered, “Don’t you want something to eat?” He looked up from his work and smiled. “This shouldn’t take much longer.” When he turned his attention back on the bits of electronics on the table, Isabel just shook her head. A few minutes later she returned with a plate of food and a kiss for encouragement. Within a short while he had jerry-rigged a couple of transmitters and a tracking unit. He had prepared one transmitter for the big rig and another to place on Masters’ personal truck.

It was almost dark when they changed into what Maria referred to as their ‘stealthy suits’ - jeans and dark shirts. While Tyler, Kyle and Sera drove the rental car to check out Waylon’s house, the rest took the Rover to check out the trucking business.




~~~~~~~~~~~~~


As Kyle sat in the car parked near the end of the street in an older neighborhood watching a shabby, run down house that could use a paint job, he frowned. “Tell me again how we got stuck with house detail.” He held up a set of binoculars to his eyes.

“Oh, I don’t know. Could it be because you mouthed off to Michael about your ingrained knowledge of police matters and the importance of a properly conducted stake out?” Sera said sweetly looking at her boyfriend’s profile as the sun set behind the trees.

“Oh - yeah.” He grimaced with a shrug, as Tyler smothered a laugh in the backseat.

“Well, this isn’t much of a stake-out, I mean, the guy’s just sitting there at home watching wrestling and drinking beer.” Kyle continued to complain. “I sure would like to check out that house, see what he has hidden in there.”

“Kyle, you know Max said not to take any chances.” Sera took the binoculars from him, “We’re just supposed to keep an eye out and let Max know if we see anything suspicious.”

“I bet while we’re sitting here bored out of our minds, El Presidente’ is finding all the clues.”


~~~~~~~~~~


Parking the Land Rover a short distance away from the entrance of the trucking company, the six discussed their plan. Alex and Maria would stay in the car with a set of the night vision binoculars, where they could see anyone who came around the premises. Meanwhile the members of the FourSquare would investigate the truck yard.

Alex informed them, “According to their employee records, Masters’ truck is #109. Looks like the truckers have an assigned truck they drive regularly, just switching out trailers. He brought in an empty today, trailer #212. I’m not sure if it’s been cleaned out for new cargo yet, so you should check out the truck first. Alex then handed Max a small package. “Just stick this transmitter somewhere underneath the truck, it has a magnet to keep it in place.”

Michael gave Alex a look of admiration, “Sometimes you’re scary smart, McGyver. Glad you’re on our side.”

Alex beamed at what, for Michael, was high praise. As they started to exit the Rover, Alex warned them, “Remember, they have a Doberman. Guess it’s cheaper than hiring guards or security cameras.”

“No problem.” Michael stated, “We’ll just put it to sleep.” Maria was horrified, “Michael! You are not killing that dog.”

“What the…” He gave her a disbelieving look, “I’m not going to kill it, Maria. Just give it a little zap and knock it unconscious.” “Oh, sorry.” A chagrined Maria shrugged in apology.

Once outside the Rover, Max asked, “Did everyone set their phones to vibrate in case we have to call?”

Receiving affirmative nods, and after Alex and Maria bestowed good luck kisses on their sweeties, the four made their way to the back of the truck yard.


~~~~~~~~~~


The foursome crept around to the back of the truck yard and cautiously approached the fence. Max and Michael used their powers to cut an opening through the chain link. Easing through, they started across the lot, but froze when they heard an ominous growl. Slowly turning to look behind them, Liz saw the biggest Doberman she’d ever seen, not that she had seen that many. “Uh, Max?” Liz whispered, eyes wide open, as she squeezed his hand, “He doesn’t look happy to see us.”

“Michael…” Max said quietly, “Now would be a good time for that little tap.”

“I know,” Michael said. “but…” Darn that Maria, he thought. “What if I accidentally kill it?”

Meanwhile, the dog was inching closer, it’s teeth bared. “Oh, for crying out loud.” Isabel stood completely still, “Do you think he’s worried about accidentally killing you?”

Michael raised his hand and sent the dog a slight blast. With a whimper, it went down. Max eased over to make sure it wasn’t hurt, his hand held out ready to cast his shield. Seeing that the dog was merely unconscious, he wrapped his belt around the dog’s face as a muzzle. “Now let’s hurry before it wakes up, cause if dog’s get headaches – he’s gonna have a doozie.”

Reaching the area where the trucks were parked, Max told Liz and Isabel to keep an eye out while he and Michael checked out the truck. Liz objected, “Max, no. You know I need to get inside that truck, see if I can sense anything.”

“Uh, Liz,” Michael rubbed his eyebrow, “Why don’t you wait until we see if there’s anything in there. Maybe you won’t have to…”

Liz interrupted him, “What is going on here?” She put her hands on her hips, “I can understand Max being a worry wart…” Max objected, “Hey!” Liz ignored him, “but you, Michael?”

“Maria just thought, you know, with the vision and stress…” Michael withered under Liz’s glare, “uh, there might be trauma and… stuff.”

Liz looked over at Isabel who just shook her head, “Don’t look at me, I was out of the loop on this.” Liz sighed and shook her head, “Look guys, I know I freaked out over my vision, but it was a damn scary thing to see. And I appreciate that everyone cares about my well being, but just because I was upset doesn’t mean that I’m going to fall apart or that I need to be treated like a china doll.”

Michael looked over at Max who was leaning against the truck. Max didn’t like it, but knew Liz was right. He opened the door and as he assisted Liz inside he whispered, “Don’t think we won’t talk about that wart remark later.” As she climbed over to the passenger seat he gave her a smack on the fanny. "Oh!" Then she turned and gave Max a saucy grin, "Ooh, kinky," leaving Max wide eyed and pink cheeked to climb behind the wheel.

Max aimed a flashlight around the interior as they looked through the vehicle, but they found nothing unusual or out of place. Liz reached out to touch the steering wheel, gearshift and dashboard, but got nothing. She looked at Max in resignation, “Nothing, not a single flash.” Then something caught her eye. “Max, look.” She pointed out a couple of pictures taped to the visor of Waylon Masters along with what looked like some hunting buddies. “Isabel should be able to…” Max interrupted, “Only one way to find out.”

Removing one of the photos, they climbed out of the truck. Max gave the picture to Isabel. She looked at Max, “Should we try it as the FourSquare?” Max shook his head, “Better not, someone could show up while we’re under. Why don’t you and Liz try the dreamwalk while Michael and I stand guard.”


~~~~~~~~~~~

TBC ~

Thank you for all the feedback, and welcome new readers. I'm so happy that you are enjoying the story. Carol000, about Alex's ID... um, well, uh, oops - maybe Tyler rented the car and Alex just reserved it.



Chapter 7


“Could this be more boring?” Kyle complained as he shrugged his shoulders. “I thought we’d get to tail this guy. The only traveling he’s done is from the fridge to the bathroom.” He looked through the binoculars once again.

“Speaking of bathrooms…” Sera said ruefully, “Sure wish I hadn’t drank all that Coke earlier.”

“Kyle,” Tyler sat up and stuck his head between the seats. “Why don’t you let me out, then you and Sera can go for a pit stop. I’ll watch the house ‘til you get back.”

“Uh oh.” Something caught Kyle’s eye.

“Uh oh?” Sera looked around, “Why are you saying uh oh?”

Kyle put the binoculars down. “We’ve got a Kravitz at 10:00 o’clock.”

“A Kravitz?” Sera asked. “What’s a Kravitz?”

Tyler responded, “The nosy neighbor on Bewitched.”

Kyle looked back into the binoculars. “She’s looking out the window in this direction. Doubt she can see us in here, but she can probably see the car.” Tyler agreed, “We’d better move around to the next block.”

Kyle cranked up and as they drove down the street, he looked over at Sera, “You’d have known about the very snoopy ‘Mrs. Kravitz’ if you’d joined us at Michael’s for the Bewitched marathon instead of going shopping with Maria and Isabel.”

Sera cut her eyes over at him and smiled, “But if I hadn’t gone shopping, I wouldn’t have bought that little green bikini you like so much.”

He grinned with a wink, “Worth missing Bewitched for every time.”

When they reached the end of the street, Tyler had Kyle pull over. “Let me out here and I’ll double back.” Holding out his hand for the binoculars, “When you two come back, park here and call me on my cell, I have it on vibrate.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Isabel and Liz leaned against the side of the truck as Michael and Max stood nearby. Isabel reached out for Liz’s hand, “Okay, Liz, you know the drill. Just close your eyes and take slow breaths.” Liz felt the familiar tingling sensation as she clasped Isabel’s hand.

***She found herself in an unfamiliar living room. Feeling the squeeze of her hand, she turned to see Isabel beside her. “Here we are.” Isabel spoke softly, “and there he is.” Turning to see Waylon Masters stretched out in a recliner in front of the television, Liz involuntarily jerked. “Liz, remember, here in his subconscious he can’t see us or hear us.” Isabel reassured her. Liz nodded, “Sorry, I just...” Isabel gave her a knowing smile. “It’s unsettling, I know.”

The room began to blur, “Isabel, what’s happening?”

Isabel felt disoriented, “I think that he’s beginning to dream. I’ve never been inside someone’s head when a dream started before.”

The room slowly cleared and they found themselves in a bedroom, a pretty blond woman was packing a suitcase. They saw a younger Waylon standing in the doorway, slimmer and without the receding hairline. With confusion on his face he asked the woman. “Mandy, what are you doing?” The young woman turned to him, a mixture of anger and regret on her face. “What does it look like, Waylon? I’m packing. I told you, being stuck back in this podunk town is not what I want in my life.”

He reached out to stroke her arm, “Baby, things are going to get better, I promise.” She pulled away, “No, it’s not and you saying it over and over won’t make it true. She pulled items out of a dresser drawer and tossed them into the suitcase. “The power bill is late, I had to borrow money from my boss to pay the phone bill, and now the landlord says if you don’t pay the back rent by Monday, he’s evicting us.”

“He won’t evict us, I’ll talk to him.”

“You don’t even have a job, Waylon. You’ve had four jobs in the last year and you either quit or were fired from each of them.”

Waylon began to pace, “You don’t understand, baby. Those jerks at work treated me like I was some kind of… some kind of…”

“Hired help?” She tossed at him, “Because that’s what you are. You expect everyone to still treat you like the big football hero, Waylon, but you aren’t. You are a 20 year old has-been who can’t even hold down a job!”

“Shut up!!” he yelled. “You have no idea…” She interrupted him, “Oh, I have every idea. I was the most popular girl in high school, and everybody envied me. Now, I’m the one who has to go to the grocery store, and the gas station week after week, and endure the stares. I’m not sure which is worse, the ones that pity us or the ones who gloat.” She snapped the suitcase shut and turned around to face him. “Well, I’m done suffering those looks, done with counting pennies. I’ll have my lawyer contact you.”

When she would have walked past him, he grabbed her by the arm and swung her around, “You aren’t going anywhere.” They began to struggle and her face quickly changed from angry to frightened as he slung her around and tossed her on the bed. Then his hands were around her neck, “You are not leaving me, Mandy. Do you hear me? Never!” And then he squeezed and squeezed as she tried to pry his hands from her throat.

“Oh my God!” Liz cried out. “He’s killing her.” Liz lunged forward, but Isabel pulled her back. “No, Liz, he’s just dreaming about it. This happened years ago.” Liz shook her head, “Of course, how foolish…” Isabel slipped her arm around Liz’s shoulders, “No, it does feel real, like it’s happening now.” The girl on the bed stopped struggling, her lips blue and her eyes vacant. Masters stood back and grabbed the suitcase tossing the items back into the drawers. “You are mine, and I’ll never let you go.”

The dream abruptly ended and Liz and Isabel felt off balanced as they found themselves back in the living room. “He’s awake.” Isabel stated, “I can’t believe we didn’t get tossed out when he woke up.” Masters was sitting up and rubbing his face. He reached for the beer can on the nearby table and took a swig. He stood and walked over to open a door, revealing a set of steps. Liz and Isabel were drawn to follow as he descended into the basement, crossed the floor and removed a padlock from a door. He entered a small room and turned on a lamp sitting on a worktable and sat down.

“What’s he doing?” Liz asked. The two girls eased up behind him and neither bothered to silence their gasps. Lying on the table were several Polaroid snapshots off a young girl as he used scissors to trim the photo. Liz recognized her as one of the girls in her vision. He took the picture and glued it to a red construction paper heart, then stood and moved to over to a wall containing a collage of other hearts and pictures bordered by newspaper clippings. Liz felt sickened as she stared at the wall in disbelief. “Isabel, it’s a shrine.”

Isabel nodded, “Look a the center picture.” The center of the collage was a large picture of his murdered wife. Isabel looked over at Liz but before she could speak they found themselves back in the truck yard.***

Max grabbed Liz as she sagged against him, “Liz! Are you alright?”

Michael reached for a shaky Isabel, “What the hell happened? You both started trembling, then Liz began sparking; scared the bejesus out of Max.” He blustered, trying to hide his own anxiety.

Isabel reached up to hold her head, “I’m fine, Michael. It was just more intense than my dreamwalks usually are.”

Liz looked at Max, “I am, too. Fine I mean. I guess it was a reaction to seeing Masters kill his wife.”

“What!?” Michael exclaimed, “You saw him kill her? Tonight?”

Isabel shook her head, “Not exactly, we saw him dream about it. We’ll explain everything, but let’s get back to Alex and Maria first.”

After making sure that the guard dog was still sleeping and retrieving Max’s belt, the four covered their tracks and made their way back to an anxious Alex and Maria. Settling into the Rover, Isabel brought them up to speed on what they had seen in Masters’ dreams.

“Sera was right,” Alex murmured, “He did kill his wife.” Maria nodded, “Kyle was right too, he’s killing her over and over again with these girls.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~


When Kyle and Sera returned to Masters’ neighborhood, Sera called Tyler on her cell phone. “We’re back. Did we miss anything?”

“Nah,” Tyler responded, “I’m just sitting here, up a tree.”

“Up a tree?” Sera laughed. “Best seat in the house.” Tyler laughed back. “Seriously, I can see right into his living room from here. He fell asleep in front of the TV for a while, when he woke up he left the room. I couldn’t see what room he went to, but he’s still in there.”

While Sera was talking to Tyler, a startled Kyle cried out, “Aughhhh” when his cell phone began to vibrate in his pocket. After a short discussion with Max, they waited for Tyler to meet them, and left to meet the others back at the RV.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Kyle, Sera and Tyler were surprised to learn the results of Liz and Isabel’s dreamwalk. “Damn.” Kyle looked at Tyler, “I knew we needed to get into that house. Instead of just sitting there in the car playing I Spy.”

“Keeping Masters under surveillance and placing the transmitters was the objective, Kyle.” Max told him, “Not to get caught snooping through his house.”

“And just what were you going to do with Masters sitting there, anyway?” Michael asked, “Uh, excuse me Mr. Masters, I was just in the neighborhood and wondered if I could see your death shrine?”

Kyle glared at him. “I think I have little more finesse than that.”

“Enlighten me, Buddha Boy.” Michael taunted. “Just how would you have ‘finessed’ your way into that house?”

“Hey, SpaceWad, I got more finesse in my little finger than you have…”

“Enough!” Isabel admonished, “Will you two can it?” Isabel’s scowl silenced both of them.

“I know everyone’s nerves are rattled.” Sera spoke up, “but we can’t start fighting among ourselves. Too much is at stake.”

Michael and Kyle both looked shamefaced, “Sorry, man.” Michael mumbled. Kyle shrugged, “Nah, s’okay.”

Then Michael looked at Kyle with a raised eyebrow, “SpaceWad?” Kyle grinned, “It was all I could come up with on short notice.”

Bringing the subject back to the matter at hand, Liz reminded them, “We don’t need in the house, we already know what’s there. What we need is a way to get the police in there.”

Alex looked around at the group, “So, anybody have any ideas?”

“As a matter of fact, I do.” Tyler nodded his head.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Tyler had just finished laying out his plan and Max was nodding his head, “Okay, this just might work” when they were startled by a chirping sound. Alex rushed to the tracking unit and called out, “He’s on the move.”

“Then so are we.” Max stated, “Tyler, this works in our favor since you won’t have to deal with Masters. Take Michael, Kyle and Sera with you, the rest of you are with me.”

As they headed out to the vehicles, Michael pulled Max aside, “Max, shouldn’t I go with you, after all, I am your second and…” Max interrupted him, “And that’s why I need you to go with them. You’re in charge, Michael, and if anything goes wrong, I’m depending on you to make sure Kyle and Sera are alright.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~


“Turn left up here at that light, Max.” Max was driving the Taurus as Alex sat beside him in the passenger seat, the tracker in his lap. “We should be getting close.”

“What’s the make of his truck again, Alex?” Maria looked out the back window. Alex kept his eyes on the tracker as he answered, “A red 2000 Ford 150. Look around ladies, we should be right on him.”

“There it is!” Liz called out as she leaned up and pointed. “In that parking lot.”

There sat Waylon Masters’ truck in front of a liquor store. Max pulled into the lot stopping a few spaces from the red truck. He looked back at Liz and Isabel, “Didn’t Kyle say that Masters had been drinking all evening?” “Yeah, and we saw him drinking when we dreamwalked him.” Isabel answered, “Guess he ran out.”

Max smiled, “Maria, give Michael a call and let him know we found Masters.” He pulled out his own cell phone, “I think I know how to delay him from returning home too soon.”


~~~~~~~~~~~


Arriving back in Masters’ neighborhood, this time in the Land Rover, Kyle drove down the street. Sera pointed out the shabby house, now cloaked in darkness, to Michael. Parking a little further down the street in hopes of avoiding Nosy Kravitz, Michael and Tyler got out of the vehicle. Michael looked at Tyler, “I should be going with you. Hanging back and waiting isn’t really my thing.”

Tyler gave Michael a grin, “Now that I believe, but it really is safer if I go alone. The three of you go park a couple of streets over, I’ll head in that direction through the backyards when I’m done and I’ll call when I’m ready to be picked up.” Michael turned to get back in the Rover, when Tyler stopped him, “And Michael? No matter what happens, you protect Kyle and Sera. I can take care of myself.” Michael nodded and Tyler made his way down the street towards the house.


~~~~~~~~~~


Masters stumbled back to this truck and before cranking up, he twisted open a bottle and took a long pull from it. As he began to pull out of the parking lot, Max handed the phone to Isabel, “Remember, be upset.” Isabel then dialed 9-1-1. “Emergency Services, what is your emergency?”

“I need to report a drunk driver, he’s all over the road.” Isabel rushed out. When asked about her location, Isabel told the operator that she was following a red pickup that was weaving in and out of traffic, “Omigod, he almost hit that car.” She gave the make and tag number and location of the vehicle, but when the operator asked for her information, Isabel made the phone begin to beep and told the operator that her cell phone battery was going out on her.

Within a few minutes, they saw a patrol car coming up from behind them, and they dropped back as the patrol car passed them to slide in behind the truck, which actually was weaving across the centerline. When the blue lights began flashing and the truck pulled over, Max pulled ahead and turned into a convenience store parking lot. As they watched the patrolman approach the truck, Max grinned, “I don’t think Waylon will be going home tonight.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Tyler approached the house keeping to the shadows. Once he entered through a side window, he made his way to the basement room. Breaking the lock, he removed it and was as appalled as Liz and Isabel had been as he looked at the shrine Masters had created. Easing his way back upstairs, he used his powers to quickly pull out drawers and open cabinets tossing the contents, all to look like someone had been searching for items to steal. He carried the TV and the stereo, plus a few other valuables into the bathroom and sat them in the bathtub. Using his powers, he dissolved them and washed the residue down the drain. Once the scene was set, he exited back out the window and retrieved the crowbar he had brought with him.

Approaching the front door, he carefully looked around and sure enough, he saw the neighbor peeking out a window. He turned so the moonlight would show reflect off his blond hair, but hid his face. Hoisting the crowbar, he began ‘breaking in’ to the house. Once inside, he eased to the front window and waited until he saw a patrol car slowly come down the lane with its headlights turned off. Then he went to the far corner of the house and using his powers, he laid his hand on the wall. The wall shimmered and became gelatinous, and Tyler was able to walk right through to the outside. With a wave of his hand, he restored the wall and keeping low, ran across the back yard and down the yards of several houses. He hid behind a small storage building, held his hand out in front of him and a blinding light flashed.


~~~~~~~~~~~~


A young police officer approached a gray haired, middle-aged man walking down the street, whistling and calling out, “Pookie. Come on, girl, come to Daddy.”

“Excuse me, sir.” The officer said, “We’re investigating a break-in the next street over. Did you happen to see a blond man, dressed in black, in the neighborhood tonight?”

“No, sir, but I’ve only been out here a few minutes. I had to let my dog out and she got outside the fence. Have you seen a small brown dog? Answers to Pookie?”

The officer shook his head no, and instructed the man to let the police know if he saw anything suspicious. He then went to knock on the door of the next house, the man continued on his way calling for his dog. Once out of sight of the officer, the man pulled out a cell phone and stated to the person answering the phone. “Mission accomplished. Pick me up at the meeting place.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~


The following morning a tired group was gathered around the television in the RV, munching on cereal, pop-tarts and chocolate chip cookies with their milk and juice. The station was set to a local morning show. Finally, the news story they had been waiting for came on.

A pretty news anchor looked into the camera with a practiced serious expression. “In a twist that is stranger than fiction, an act by a Good Samaritan has revealed that a suspected serial killer has been living in our midst. Making the story even stranger is how this alleged killer was caught. With the story is our reporter on the scene, Juan Rodriguez.”

The scene shifted to a young Hispanic man holding a microphone as he stood on the sidewalk in front of Masters’ house, an inset behind his shoulder showed a mug shot of Waylon Masters.

“Last night a concerned neighbor reported a break-in of her neighbor’s house. When officers arrived on the scene and began their investigation, they discovered a room in the basement of the house containing an apparent memorial to his young victims. But what shocked the officers even more was the discovery of a trunk in the room containing human remains.”

There were gasps from the group watching the television. Isabel looked at Liz, “We never even noticed a trunk.”

The reporter moved closer to the house and they saw that the doorway was crisscrossed with crime scene tape. “And in another twist in this story, the authorities learned that the owner of the house, identified as Waylon Masters, was already in police custody at the time of the break-in, having been arrested earlier in the evening on drunk driving charges. I spoke earlier with the investigator in charge of the case, who informed me that when the police notified Mr. Masters of the break in and confronted him with what they found in his basement, he broke down and identified the remains as those of his wife, confessing that he had killed her years ago. He also made a confession to at least a half dozen murders of what were believed to be runaway teens that he picked up hitchhiking. Details are still emerging from this breaking story and we will bring those details to you as we receive them.”

They then proceeded to show several interviews with neighbors who were all shocked and talked about how quiet their neighbor was, always kept to himself and was a polite young man never causing any trouble.

There was excitement in the group. Michael and Kyle hollered out, “Woo Hoo.” “Alright! We did it” with accompanying high-fives. Isabel hugged Alex, “You were wonderful. Your gadgets were wonderful.” Sera smiled at Tyler, “Great job, Burglary Man.”

Although she smiled, Liz sat quietly looking at the screen. Max sat close to her, his arm around her shoulder. He gave her a squeeze as he glanced at her, “Liz? Honey, it’s over, he’ll never hurt anyone again.” Liz nodded. “I know.”

Maria looked at Liz with concern, “Lizzie? Smile ‘chica, we did a good thing.” Maria sat beside Liz and took Liz’s hand in hers. Liz gave her a slight smile, “I know, ‘Ria. It’s just… I wish I knew about that last girl I saw, whether she’s alright.”

“I guess we’ll never know for sure, Liz.” Isabel commiserated, “But at least you can be comforted by the fact that she wasn’t on the collage. He never got to her.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Later that same day, a pretty young teen looked at the expanse of empty road feeling very alone as the breeze lifted her long blond hair. She looked at her watch, she’d been walking for over an hour, but so far not a single car had even passed her by. Her parents didn’t understand anything but chores and farming, what did they care about her dreams. And Bobby Jenkins was a jerk, some boyfriend he was; he just made fun of her whenever she talked about going to California and being an actress. No one takes you seriously when you are just 15. Well, he’d be sorry when she was discovered and had her own television show.

She dropped her duffle bag and sat down on the side of the road and rubbed the blister forming on her heel. Then she looked wistfully back down the road. Mom would be starting supper soon, and her fried pork chops were the best. Just thinking about them made her stomach growl. Then her dad would come in and after cleaning up, and he’d pretend to sneak a bite of mashed potatoes or green beans while Mom pretended she was going to smack his hand with the spoon. She rolled her eyes as she thought, ‘sometimes they were so silly’. With a shrug, she stood up, slung the duffle over her shoulder and slowly began the trek that would take her back home just in time for supper.


~~~~~~~~~
TBC ~

Thank you all so much for the feedback

Carol000, the guy with the cell phone was Tyler, who had shapeshifted after leaving that house. (sorry, I didn't make that clear enough )

This chapter contains
Chapter 8

Knowing that Waylon Masters would never have the opportunity hurt another young girl had boosted their spirits, and the gang was ready to get back to their planned vacation. Early afternoon found the RV and Land Rover finally rolling into Leadville, Colorado.

"Omigod, look at those mountains." Maria said looking at the snowcapped range from her seat beside Michael in the Land Rover. “They’re beautiful.”

Alex and Isabel sat in front with Alex at the wheel as Isabel navigated. "Just think, Michael." Isabel said as she gazed at the same mountains. "Somewhere up there is a ship, a ship from our world that traveled through space to bring Tyler and Sera here."

Michael had a big grin on his face, "I can't wait to see it. I wish we were heading out tomorrow." He looked over at Maria, and before she could speak he held up his hand, "I know, everyone wants a few days to relax, but still...." Maria had to smile as he looked out of the window, so excited and boyish in his enthusiasm, like a kid anticipating Christmas.

"Looks like this is the place." Alex noted as he pulled off the highway into an RV Park just on the edge of town. Thanks to practice, they had their camp up and running in just a short while. Earlier the girls had talked about wanting to spend the afternoon around the pool, but the air felt a bit cool for swimming, so they decided to check out the town.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


While the rest of the gang chose to spend the afternoon checking out the town for places of interest, Tyler had decided to check to see what he could find to supplement the supplies they had brought with them. It wouldn't hurt to add to their stock of freeze-dried food items for their mountain trek.

Spying a small coffee shop, he decided to drop in for a cup and a slice of pie. Choosing to sit at the booth near the back he looked around the diner that sort of reminded him of the Crashdown, well, minus the antennae and alien mural. A pretty waitress delivering coffee and dessert to a nearby table caught his eye. When she stopped to take his order, he noticed her streaked blond hair stopped just above the nametag pinned to the front of her uniform. Cece he read. As she walked behind the counter to pour him a cup of coffee, he admired the way her hips slightly swayed and was a little surprised at the basic male reaction he had.

Oh sure, he admired the female form as much as anyone else; his race didn’t have big eyes for nothing. But he'd never felt a pull of sexual desire for a human woman before. He'd always thought it was a side affect of the changes he undertook to become a shapeshifter; that he'd given up sexual desires in exchange for being a Royal protector. But this young woman had awakened something deep inside him. As she brought his coffee back to his table, he smiled at her as he felt a rush of anticipation in a way he had not in a very long time.


~~~~~~~~~~~


“There’s the Tabor Opera House.” Isabel pointed out, holding a tourist guide she’d received at the Chamber of Commerce office in her hand. “Tabor?” Sera asked as she and Maria walked over to stand beside Isabel. “Isn’t that the guy who owned that mine you were telling us about?”

"Yes, The Matchless Mine." Isabel answered her with a smile. "I thought we could take the entire walking tour tomorrow, since there's not enough time today. I thought we could just look around this section this afternoon."

Michael and Kyle lagged behind, both completely disinterested, but knowing that resistance was futile when Isabel was in organizational mode. “Mines and Opera houses just don’t do much for me, Isabel.” Michael complained.

“Oh, I don’t know, it might be interesting.” Alex commented earning a smile and a kiss from Isabel.

Kyle grumbled to Michael, “No help there, that boy is whipped.”

Isabel turned to glare at Kyle, “What was that?” Kyle gave her an innocent look, “Whoopie. I said, Whoopie.” Giving him a skeptical look, she turned back and grabbed Alex’s hand to lead the way over to the opera house leaving the others to follow. “Damn,” Kyle groused to Michael, “Wish I’d of called dibs on the RV like Evans did.”

Overhearing him, Sera dropped back and gently admonished him, “Kyle, you know that Liz didn’t feel up to sightseeing, and naturally, Max wasn’t going to leave her there alone.”

While Michael and Kyle snorted, Maria looked over at her, disbelief on her face. “You’re kidding, right? I mean, Liz is my best friend, but no way did I buy that lame story.”

Sera looked surprised, “Lame story? You mean…”

Michael grinned, “Maybe Liz wasn’t feeling up to it, but I bet Max is about now.”

“Michael!” Maria grabbed Michael by the arm, as Kyle laughed. “Just for that Spaceboy, we’re going to tour that opera house.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~


Max dragged his mouth across Liz’s cheek to whisper into her ear, “Love you.” Their naked bodies entwined on the bed as hands reached to caress. “Mmmmmmmm,” she sighed softly as she answered, “Love you, too.” Twisting her head to capture his mouth with hers, their lips feasted on each other, tongues swirling. Liz shivered when Max pulled on her lower lip, she loved when he did that.

Max slid his hand from her breast down her taut stomach and through the crisp curls to the juncture of her legs. Liz allowed her legs to slightly part to allow him access, moaning “yesssss” as his fingers stroked her. Her arousal filled his senses and he let out his own moan, his mouth lightly sucked at the sensitive skin below her ear. But his breath hitched when he felt Liz’s fingers graze his inner thigh just before her hand clasped his erection. Max shifted to slide into the cradle of Liz’s thighs, her hand guiding him to her as he slid home. He stilled within her and gazing into her eyes, he brushed the back of his fingers along her cheek, whispering, “Forever.” Liz wrapped her legs around Max’s waist as she nodded, “Forever.” Their bodies settled into rhythm and their connection flowed between them; tendrils of love, need and trust surrounded their souls.

As the exquisite pressure built, Max rolled over onto his back grasping Liz’s hips. Their bodies continued to piston together, as Liz rode him harder and faster. Gazing up at the beautifully wanton look on Liz’s flushed face, her hair falling around her shoulders to tease his skin, he could feel that Liz was close. Also feeling his own climax rapidly approaching, Max reached down and sent a tiny alien boost through his thumb against her little bud simultaneously with a burst of power against her sweet spot. Liz’s inner passage clamped tight around his member and she shuddered violently as she came apart, screaming his name. Throwing his head back, Max followed her over with his own cry of satisfaction.

Liz’s body fell to lay boneless across Max, as they both gasped for breath. Max managed to say, “Glad we… decided to stay… and relax,” causing Liz to giggle. She slid over to lie beside him, her leg hooked over his as she recovered her own breath. With her head on his chest, she peeked up through her lashes to impishly ask, “You mean you wouldn’t rather be touring the silver mines?”

He kissed the top of her head before pulling her up to lie face to face, wrapping his arms around her. “Who needs silver? I have the most precious commodity known to man right here in my arms.” Laughing softly at his sweet sappiness, she rewarded him with a kiss. Shifting up on one elbow, she looked down on him, “Speaking of silver,” she ran a finger down his nose, “never let it be said that you’re not a silver-tongued devil.”

“What? You doubt my declarations of devotion?” He asked in mock distress. She gave him a pretty faux pout, “Words are pretty, but they do say actions speak louder…” She gave out a squeal of delight when he began to tickle her. Then he rolled her underneath him and said, “Actions, huh? Maybe I’d better give you another demonstration.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


“Well, there’s an hour of my life I’ll never get back.” Kyle complained at they exited the opera house. Isabel chided him. “How can you say that, Kyle? That was very interesting. Besides, a little culture will do you some good.”

“I dunno, Isabel.” Michael gave her a look as he shook his head, “Afraid I’m going to have to side with Buddha Boy here. That was pretty boring.”

While Isabel wore an indignant face, Maria hooked her arm into Michael’s. “So you said - about a dozen times. Maybe you’ll enjoy tomorrow’s activities more.”

With a look of doubt, he responded, “Not if it means walking all over town looking at buildings.”

Alex grinned, “Would you two like some cheese with that whine?”

“Now there’s an idea. What I would enjoy right now,” Kyle pointed a bar and grill across the street, “is a visit to that saloon before we head back to camp.” Kyle pretended to tip an invisible hat, asking with a drawl. “Might I interest you in a sarsaparilla, Miz Sera?”

Fluttering her hand in front on her like she was fanning, she responded in kind. “Why, I’d be delighted, Mr. Valenti.”

He then extended his arm to her, and she slipped a hand around his elbow and they made their way to cross the street. Michael grabbed Maria’s hand, “Come on, Blondie.”

Alex draped an arm around Isabel’s shoulders, “You know what they say, Miz Izzy, if’n you can’t beat ‘em…” She rolled her eyes, “oh, brother,” but wrapped her arm around his waist and they joined their friends.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Liz stood under the running water of the RV’s tiny shower, Max pressed up behind her, running his soapy hands over her body. She let her head fall back on his shoulder, “Max, the others will be back soon. I don’t think this idea to shower together is saving us any time.” As one soapy hand cupped a plump little breast, tweaking the pert nipple, he whispered into her ear, “Are you saying that you aren’t satisfied with your bath?” She laughed softly, “Not yet.” But when she tried to turn around, he stopped her. “Nuh uh. I’m not finished.” Her laughter turned to moans when his hands soaped her bottom before sliding around her firm stomach to thoroughly bath her - everywhere. “Max…” she pleaded, “I need…”

“What’s the matter? Feeling hot and bothered?” His husky voice sent shivers rushing through her, her hands reaching back to cling to his thighs. “I have just what you need.” Feeling his erection pressing into her backside, Liz quivered in anticipation, when suddenly – “Aiyyyyeeeeeeeeee!” Her face and body were assaulted by ice-cold water.

The water suddenly shut off and she whirled around to face a laughing Max, who held up his hands against the outrage on her face. “I’m sorry, baby.” She raised an eyebrow since she didn’t hear any true remorse in his voice. “I just couldn’t resist.”

Liz glared at him as she reached for a towel. “You are so going to pay for that, Max Evans!”

“Awww, come on, Liz, I’m sorry, really.” He pulled her in his arms and she felt heat coursing through her body. “See? All warmed up.”

Max pulling a joke on her was so rare that she couldn’t stay mad. Of course that wouldn’t keep her from getting even. She shrugged, “Well, maybe that was a little funny.” She pointed her finger at him, “but just maybe.” He captured her finger and turned her hand to kiss her palm, her wrist, then her shoulder and she sank against him. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she gazed up at him with doe eyes, “It’s a little chilly.” So he turned the warm water back on, holding her tightly and kissing her. She began to rain little kisses on his neck and chest, licking his nipple as her hand reached to slide up and down his hard length. When she sank to her knees and her mouth replaced her hand, Max groaned “Liz, Liz…” as he slid his hands through her hair.

Weak-kneed, he braced his hands on the wall as he leaned back. God, he thought, her mouth feels so damn good. Liz released him with a ‘pop’ and her hand once again stroking as his erection grew even harder. His mind was lost in a daze of pleasure and with his eyes closed, he never even noticed Liz adjusting the showerhead or reaching for the faucet, just before she jumped out of the shower.

“Augghhhhhhhhhhhh!” His shocked eyes opened as icy water rained down, directly on his throbbing manhood. He looked at Liz in disbelief as she stood wrapping a towel around her body wearing a big grin on her face. With a sassy “You were right, Max. That was funny,” she sashayed out the door of the tiny bathroom, leaving him with his mouth open and water dripping off his semi-deflated…


~~~~~~~~~~~~


Kyle climbed out of the Rover, “Well, at least the trailer’s not rockin’, so I guess it’s safe to go knockin’.”

Amidst grins and laughter, “Kyle!” Isabel complained, “You are insinuating things about my brother, I’d rather not think about.”

As the group entered the RV, they found Max and Liz just as they left them - sitting together on the couch watching television, Liz curled up against Max’s side.

“What’s on?” Michael asked. Liz answered, “It’s a special on The Learning Channel.”

“So,” Kyle asked as he opened the fridge looking for something to snack on, “Learn anything?”

They all looked at each other curiously when Max turned red and Liz began to laugh, “Yeah, Max learned that revenge is best served cold.”


~~~~~~~~~~~


The following morning the teens began to wake up and greet the morning. Sera noticed a note affixed to the refrigerator that read, “Decided to headed into town. Will grab breakfast there. Enjoy your day, will catch up with you later.” It was signed with a boldly slashed T.

“That’s strange.” Sera glanced over at Kyle who was pouring them both a glass of juice. “Tyler spent all afternoon in town yesterday. Wonder why he’s going back this morning?”

Kyle shrugged, “Maybe he found a woman.” Sera rolled her eyes, “Yeah, like that’s gonna happen.”

Overhearing them, Maria asked, “Why do you say that? I’ve been thinking that when we get back home, we needed to find someone for Tyler. After all, we’re all paired up, why not him?”

Michael groaned, “Not match-making again.” Maria placed her hands on her hips, “And just why not? After all, my last project turned out pretty good.” She grinned at Kyle and Sera.

Sera blushed before answering Maria’s original question. “In all the time we’ve been here, I’ve never seen Tyler give anyone a second glance. I just figured it was because he was full alien, plus the changes he went through when he became a Protector.”

“Changed?” Kyle looked horrified, “You mean he was, like neutered?!”

Sera looked stumped, “Uh, I don’t think it was physical, more the mental changes, but it’s not something we’ve ever discussed.”

Maria looked at Michael, “Okay, that’s your project, Michael. Find out if Tyler is, or uh, has a… any, um…”

He stated sarcastically. “Gee, Maria, I’m sure that will come up in conversation. How about this – ‘Hi there, Tyler, just saw a show on TV about eunuchs and just wondered, you still got your equipment?’ Yeah, that’ll work.”

Just then Liz and Max came in from outside, after having once again slept in the Rover overnight. “Equipment?” Max asked, “Do we need more equipment?” Michael and Kyle began to laugh and Michael joked, “Maybe we should ask Liz about that one.”

“Huh?” Liz wore a perplexed look. Maria handed her a cup of coffee, shaking her head, “Believe me, you don’t want to know.”


~~~~~~~~~~~


Tyler entered the little diner and took the same booth he’d sat in the previous afternoon, smiling when he saw that CeCe was working behind the counter. Damn, he wondered, what is it about that girl?

He looked down at his menu when he saw that she had seen him looking her way. A moment later, a cup of coffee slid in front of him and he looked to see her smile at him, her streaked blond hair framing her face. “Good morning, Tyler. Here you go, black with an ungodly amount of sugar.”

He was pleasantly surprised, “You remembered?”

“Well, you did drink the equivalent of an entire urn yesterday.” She teased.

His mind went blank as he stared at her, he couldn’t think of a thing to say. He saw her looking at him with a questioning look. Oh, rats, did she say something? He felt his face grow warm. Damn, he thought, am I blushing?

“I’m sorry,” he stumbled, “I didn’t catch that.”

She asked, “Breakfast?”

“I’d love to… um, I mean some. I’d love some… breakfast, I mean.” Good grief, could he be more pathetic?

CeCe hid a smile behind her pad, “How about I just bring you the Special?” He nodded, but when she walked off to get his meal, he wondered - what the hell was in the Special?

~~~~~~~~~~~~
TBC ~

Thanks for the feedback guys This is one of those transition chapters, a necessary evil, I'm afraid.

Chapter 9

Isabel pulled out a notebook and her walking map from the day before and began to plan their day, “What I thought we could do…” bringing about immediate groans from Michael and Kyle.

“What happened to doing some fishing?” Kyle complained. He started opening the cabinet doors. “Where are those folders? I know you had fishing in there somewhere.”

“Well, fishing isn’t exactly a group activity, Kyle.” Isabel shrugged him off, but was surprised when Maria popped up, “You know what? Fishing is actually a good idea.”

“It is?” Michael looked at her sideways. She looked over at Michael, “Yes, we’ve all been together since we left Roswell, I think we could use a little girl time/guy time.”

When Max looked hesitantly over at Liz, Kyle rolled his eyes, “Come on, Evans. I don’t think one afternoon away from Liz is going to do any permanent damage to your psyche.”

While Max’s face creased in a scowl, Liz smiled, “Kyle’s right, Max. Besides, do you really want to visit museums and go shopping?”

Isabel flipped through her guidebook, “Speaking of shopping, I saw an ad for the cutest little antique shop in here.”

Seeing Max’s eyes glaze over at the thought of antiquing, Liz laughed. “Why don’t you guys go check with the reservations office about where you can fish, and if you need a license and whatnot? Meanwhile we will go do the touristy, shopping, antiquing thing.”

Isabel shrugged in defeat, “Fine. Go. Commune with nature.” Then she held up a finger and warned, “But I’m not cleaning any fish.”

Kyle grinned, “How about this – we clean ‘em and you girls cook ‘em?”

“Provided you catch any.” Sera retorted with an answering grin, “Hmmmm, maybe we’d better pick up some hamburgers while we’re out.”

“What?” Kyle jumped to his feet, “Come, men. We’ve been challenged by our women.” Kyle thumped his chest. “We must forage for sustenance.”

After the guys headed off towards the reservations office, leaving the girls alone in the RV, Liz fixed Maria with a look, “Okay, ‘ria, what was that really all about?”

Maria assumed an innocent look. “Why, what do you mean?” As the other three girls just looked at her, she grinned, “Oh, I just thought we could use a little privacy, don’t forget,” she smiled at Sera, “we have a seduction to plan.”

“Oh, Maria.” Sera blushed. “I thought you guys had forgotten about that.”

“No way!” Isabel asserted, “And I think I know the perfect place.” Once again flipping through her guidebook, “There’s a picture of the most darling little bed and breakfast in here.”

“What about The Delaware Hotel we saw yesterday?” Maria suggested, “It’s on the walking tour.”

Sera looked a bit apprehensive. “But how am I supposed to get him there?” She fretted.

“Just leave that up to us. Come on, girls, let’s go check it out.” Isabel was a woman on a mission.


~~~~~~~~~~~


After securing the necessary documentation for their fishing expedition, the guys found a promising spot at a stream within hiking distance from camp. They settled in and began casting.

Michael looked around, “Hey, Kyle, I noticed that there was a nice little clearing a ways back, not too far from the campsite, but definitely private.”

“Huh?” Kyle concentrated on his line.

“For Project Love Camp.” Michael explained, “We pitch a tent for you and Sera.”

Kyle looked doubtful, “I don’t know about that.”

“A tent?” Alex rolled his eyes, “Oh, yeah, that’ll be romantic.”

Michael glared at Alex, “We aren’t talking about your girlfriend, Queen Amidala.” Looking back at Kyle who still looked uneasy, “We can fix up a nice spot, roomy tent with a picnic supper. Trust me, girls love that sort of thing.”

Insulted by the Amidala remark, Alex glowered, “Fine, you two plan away, but don’t come crying to me when Sera runs for the hills.” Picking up his equipment, he moved a little further down the stream closer to where Max was fishing.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


The girls exited The Delaware, which had some beautiful rooms, but was a bit expensive, especially adding a room service dinner from their upscale restaurant. Sera looked a little disappointed, so Maria suggested a little monetary hoodoo. “Sera, if this is the place you like, can’t you and Isabel just Jeannie blink a few ones into hundreds or something?”

Isabel frowned, and looked around to be sure they weren’t overheard, “You want us to counterfeit? That would be stealing.”

Maria wore an affronted look, “It would not!” She justified, ”Besides, stealing from who? The hotel will make money and Sera and Kyle will have a wonderful time. Everyone benefits.”

“Guys,” Sera interrupted before a real argument could break out, “it’s not the money. I have a credit card. I just think Kyle might feel uncomfortable with all the expense, and feel he has to help pay.”

Isabel and Maria looked at each other and began to laugh, “Oh, honey,” Maria said, “we put you in some sexy lingerie and money will be the last thing on that boy’s mind.”

Sera turned red at the teasing remarks as they walked on, stopping in to visit a few shops. When they moved down the street and rounded the corner, Sera came to a stop. “Ohhhh.”

Isabel smiled, “Told ya.” They all looked at the romantic gingerbread design of The Silver Slipper Bed and Breakfast. “I can’t wait to see the inside.” She grabbed Sera by the arm and hurried up the walkway, Liz and Maria following behind.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~


CeCe, now dressed in jeans and a tee shirt, exited The Silver Cup Café and started down the street when a familiar figure caught her eye. Across the street peering into the window of the hardware store was her cute customer, Tyler. In fact, if she wasn’t mistaken, he was using that window as a mirror, watching the door of the café. As she started down the street, she noticed that he also began walking, a bit faster to take him to the crosswalk.

Okay, she thought, he spent all yesterday afternoon at her table, then again this morning, now here he was again. She really should feel apprehensive, the guy could be a stalker, but damn, he was cute with his blond hair and those incredible eyes, not quite green, not quite blue, but a turquoisee blend. She mentally shook her head, get a grip girl, he’s just a guy. Yeah, her mind argued, a guy you couldn’t keep you eyes off of, a guy who made you grin like a jackass when he walked in this morning. Said grin once again appeared on her face. Then it slid off as she remembered, she’d probably be having to move on by the end of the summer, besides she’d never seen him around before, so he was probably just a tourist.

She was so deep in her thoughts that she never noticed him approaching, not until she collided with him, hard. “Umphhh.” Arms steadied her as she looked up into those brilliant eyes. “Are you alright?” He asked. Although she nodded in the affirmative, her mind was screaming, no, nothing was ever all right for her.

“You seemed to be headed somewhere with a purpose.” Tyler grinned. She couldn’t help but smile back, “Not really. I just left work, and I guess my mind wandered.”

“I guess I should let you get on your way.” He took a step back and suddenly she felt a loss. She didn’t want to let this moment end. “I was thinking of grabbing some late lunch, but I guess after all those pancakes earlier…” she let the sentence hang.


He leapt at the chance, “I’m a bottomless pit, and I’d love some lunch. Then maybe you could show me the sights?”

“Tourist, huh?” Damn, he was just passing through. With an inward sigh, she thought, probably for the best. “I’ve only been here a couple of months myself, but there are a few places we could visit. But first, how do you feel about Thai food?”

A happy grin split his face, “The hotter...the better.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Isabel sat at the dinette booth in the RV, making notations in her notebook. “Room reserved – check; romantic in room dinner arranged – check; sexy lingerie,” she waggled her eyebrows and grinned at a blushing Sera, “check.”

Hiding her face in her hands, Sera groaned, “I can’t believe I’m doing this. What is Kyle going to think?”

Maria responded, “Oh, judging by some of the smiles I’ve seen on Alex’s face, I’d say that he’ll be thinking he is one lucky devil.”

“Ohh!” Isabel gaped. “Maria! What are you implying?”

Liz and Maria shared naughty looks and with a nod from Maria both said together, “Hot Alien Sex!” Then dissolved into a fit of giggles.

Liz remembered what Maria said the morning after her first time with Michael, “What was that you said Maria?” She lay a finger against her cheek, her look prompting Maria.

“Oh, yeah," Maria flipped her hands out and smirked, "Once you’ve had Martian, you never go back.’”

“Oh, Maria.” Isabel joined the two girls in laughter. “Only you would come up with that.”

Sera’s small voice sobered them up when she said, “You forget, he’s already had that with…”

“No!” Liz was adamant as she threw up a hand. “We will not mention that name, ever! Kyle was used by that hell beast.” Liz assured Sera, “You are the one Kyle loves, and being in love makes all the difference in the world.”

“Lizzie’s right, Sera.” Maria stood and went to the refrigerator. “Now, how about some ice cream before the guys come back.”


~~~~~~~~~~


“Women!” They recognized Kyle’s voice as he called out, “come greet your conquering warriors as we return with the spoils of victory.”

Stumbling out of the RV they gathered around to look at the strings of trout the guys brought in. “Nice,” Maria nodded. Kyle beamed until she continued, “Where did you buy them?”

“Buy them?” Kyle cried out in indignation, “We worked damn hard to catch those.”

Liz cocked an eye at Max, “I'm impressed." Max's face twisted as his conscious poked him, "Well, we were until Michael blew the stream up.”

“Maxwell!” Michael exclaimed, “Ixnay on the labbingbay.”

“Pig Latin? That's the best code you could come up with? No wonder you guys got whacked.” Kyle shook his head in mock disgust.

Ignoring Kyle’s comments and the offended protests by the aliens, Maria fixed Michael with a stony look, “You blew up the stream?”

Michael defended himself, “Hey, it’s not like it was on purpose.” Then he shrugged in chagrin, “After hours with nothing, I was feeling a bit discouraged and sort of sent out a blast of frustration. I didn’t know it was going to reverberate through the water.”

Alex grinned, “Sort of the Antarian version of dynamite fishing. Man, they popped up like silvery corks.” When Isabel turned on him he frowned, “Oh, but we felt just terrible about it," shrugging, "but hey, we couldn’t just leave them there, all dead and floating.”

Isabel looked at the strings of fish, “There must be a couple dozen here, you guys better get to cleaning.” As the guys turned to start their task, Isabel commanded, “And take the heads off, I hate for my dinner to stare at me.”

Liz, Maria and Michael headed to the RV to start things in the kitchen. Max looked around before asking Sera, “Where’s Tyler?” She shrugged her shoulders; “I guess that means you haven’t seen him today?” When Max shook his head, she looked at Max with concern, “I’m beginning to get a little worried. He’s never done this, just disappearing before.”

Spreading a cloth over the picnic table, Isabel overheard them, “Maybe he just needed a break from us. I can see him feeling a little odd man out.”

“Guess we could ask him,” Alex pointed, “here he comes now.” They looked to see Tyler walking up to the camp, carrying a duffle bag.

“Hello, stranger.” Max greeted him. “Sorry, Max, didn’t mean to go AWOL on you.” Tyler replied, and then swinging the duffle down, “I picked up some extra supplies for our trip.”

“Uh huh”, Sera looked at him, “and that took eight – nine hours?” With a guilty face, Tyler responded, “Well, after breakfast, I did take in some sights, then had some Thai food…”

“Tyler, man, it’s alright.” Max clasped his shoulder. “Our folks may look at you as a chaperone, but don’t we don’t want you to feel that you have to stay with us all the time. We were just a little concerned.”

Conversation was interrupted when Liz poked her head out of the RV, “We could use some help carrying everything out.” Soon the table was laid out with dishes of store bought coleslaw and macaroni salad, garlic bread and Michael's hushpuppies, various condiments including the ubiquitous Tabasco sauce, and in the center a plate each of fried and broiled trout.

After they had finished eating, Isabel stood up, “How about dessert? We picked up some lemon sugar cookies at this little bakery in town.”

“Oh, man,” Kyle groaned, rubbing his stomach, “I think I’m about to bust.” Looking at the pile of bones on his plate, Maria teased, “Well, sure, you only hate half the catch.”

When the teasing died down, Tyler looked around, “Hey, guys. Have you made any plans for tonight.”

Isabel looked at the faces shaking their heads, “Actually, no.” She grinned at Kyle, “We figured we’d have to go into town for supper, but since the guys actually delivered…” Kyle stuck his tongue out at her.

“Well, then…” Tyler hemmed and hawed, “I just thought, uh maybe, if you weren’t planning anything…well, there’s this little pub in town and…” then he rushed out in one breath, “ImetsomeoneIwantyoutomeet.”

Alex stared, “Could you repeat that in English?”

“Omigod!” Maria exclaimed, “Kyle was right, you found a woman?”

Tyler felt his face blush, he looked down at the remains on his plate, pushing them with his fork, “Yesterday, I was at this little coffee shop, and I met this waitress, and well, we hit it off…”

“Waitress, huh? Don’t guess it’ll do any good to tell you to run for the hills.” Michael grinned and waited for Maria’s reaction. She didn’t let him down, “Run for the hills? Listen here, Spaceboy, you’re lucky… umph.” Michael shut her up the best way he knew how. When he let go of her mouth, she licked her lips, “Uh, what were we saying?”

Rolling her eyes at Michael and Maria’s antics, Isabel turned back to Tyler, “So, tell us about her.”

He couldn’t keep the grin off his face, “Her name is CeCe, she’s only been in town here a few months, she works as a waitress, likes her Thai food almost as hot and spicy as I do, and oh yeah, she’s real pretty.” Damn, was he still blushing? “Anyway, we’re going to out to this pub tonight, and since I told her I was camping with friends, she said she’d like to meet you guys.”

“Ahhh,” Alex smirked, “So you didn’t describe either Kyle or Michael then?” Dodging to avoid a hushpuppy missile thrown by Kyle.

The girls confiscated the RV to get ready to go out, and Max pulled Tyler aside. “So, this girl, you think she’s special?”

Tyler shrugged, “I know once we leave here, I’ll probably never see her again. Plus the whole, ‘other world’ problem, but I haven’t felt like this in all the time I’ve been here. I took one look, and…” He left his sentence hanging as he gave Max a wistful smile. “Well, I just want us all to have a nice time tonight.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~

TBC ~

Thank you so much for the feedback and congratulations

Welcome creative nickname, I'm glad you are enjoying the story. Asabetha, good to see you again.

LOL, Chrissy, am I taking my life in my hands by telling you that it will be another chapter or two before the nookie train arrives for Kyle/Sera?

But we do learn the 'truth' about CeCe in this next part

-----------------

Chapter 10


Having been relegated to the public showers to get ready for their night out, the guys gathered back around the picnic table to wait for their girls. Finally, the door to the RV opened and the girls joined them. As Liz stepped out, Max stood up to greet her. The Colorado evening was cool and she smiled as she saw that Max was wearing that navy v-neck sweater she loved. Max gave her an answering smile, pleased that she was wearing a favorite of his. It was a red sweater ending just above her belly button, and she had paired it with hipster jeans. With her hair falling around her shoulders in soft curls, he thought she looked adorable and felt his stomach rumble.

Liz looked around, “Where’s Tyler?” Alex laughed, “He’s in the Rover already, feeling pretty anxious, I believe.”


~~~~~~~~~~~


Tyler pulled the Rover into a parking spot near the corner pub. “I’m just going to let you guys out before I go pick up CeCe. It’d be a little crowded, plus…”

“Plus, you don’t want us to scare her off?” Sera teased him.

Watching him drive off, the group turned and entered the pub finding it fairly busy for a weeknight. But they were able to find a couple of tables together and found seats. Ordering a couple pitchers of soft drinks, they settled in to wait for Tyler and his ‘date’.

“Come on, Sera, let’s pick out some tunes on the juke box.” Maria smiled, holding her hand out to Michael for some money. He looked at her, “Do I look like I’m made of money?” But he reached into his pocket and handed her several crumpled ones.

Kyle returned from a trip to the men’s room, “Hey, guys, there’s a game room in the back, with pool tables and they have the Rockies game on.” As Michael started to rise, Max grabbed him by the arm, “There’s no way that Maria is going to put up with you watching a ballgame while she sits out here alone.” Then Liz looked over at Kyle, “And that goes for you and Sera, too.”

Resigned, Michael and Kyle both sat down. Soon the strains of a country tune filled the pub. “Country?” Michael groused, “Awww, damn, I’m in Hell.”


Everytime our eyes meet
This feeling inside me
Is almost more than I can take


Max just laughed at him as he reached for Liz’s hand, “Dance with me?” She smiled, “Love to.” She fixed an eye on Michael and Kyle, “You two could take lessons from Max.” Michael and Kyle rolled their eyes and made faces as Max and Liz moved to the small dance floor and Max took her in his arms.


Baby when you touch me
I can feel how much you love me
And it just blows me away
I've never been this close to anyone,
Or anything
I can hear your thoughts; I can see your dreams


Alex and Isabel took to the dance floor themselves, followed soon by Kyle and Sera. Maria tugged at the hand of a reluctant Michael.


I don't know how you do what you do
I'm so in love with you
It just keeps getting better
I want to spend the rest of my life,
With you by my side
Forever and ever
Every little thing that you do,
Baby I'm amazed by you.


Max’s hands slid around to grasp Liz’s hips, her hands pressed against his shoulders as they danced close. As they gazed into each other’s eyes, the rest of the world seemed to just fade away.


The smell of your skin,
The taste of your kiss,
The way you whisper in the dark.
Your hair all around me,
Baby you surround me
Touch every place in my heart


Max lifted his hand to gently cup Liz’s face, and kissed her. It was a soft kiss, almost chaste, but Liz’s heart pounded. Then again, her heart always pounded when in close proximity to Max. She slid her hand across his chest and felt his heart also racing.


And it feels like the first time
Every time.
I want to spend the whole night
In your arms


She smiled against his lips, prompting him to whisper, “What?” “Nothing, I just love you.” Tucking her head under his chin, he hugged her tight as their dance turned into a slow moving embrace, “Love you more.”


I don't know how you do what you do
I'm so in love with you
It just keeps getting better
I want to spend the rest of my life,
With you by my side
Forever and ever
Every little thing that you do,
Baby I'm amazed by you.
(* “Amazed” by Lonestar)


Tyler and CeCe entered the pub as the last strains of the song faded away. As the dancers returned to their tables, Sera noticed Tyler. Waving, she told Kyle, “They’re here.” Kyle looked over to see Tyler and thought that the girl with him looked familiar, but he couldn’t place her.

As they neared the table, CeCe got a good look at Tyler’s friends, and she stopped cold. Feeling the tug on his hand, Tyler turned to her, and saw that all the color had drained from her face. “CeCe? What’s wrong?”

“Omigod!” Maria’s voice rang out. “No way!” There were various looks of shock and surprise around the table. “Is that?” “I thought…” “It can’t be.” But it was a stunned Michael who just shook his head in disbelief as he asked, “Courtney?”

Tyler looked between the open-mouthed looks of those at the table and the dismayed look on CeCe’s face. “What the…?” She shook her head as she pulled her hand away from his, “I can’t… I’m sorry.” And she fled through the crowd back out the doorway.

“CeCe!” Tyler called as he went after her. Max looked at Liz, still holding her hand. Liz said, “Let’s go.” And they took off after Tyler.

“What is going on?” Sera asked, confusion on her face. “Do you guys know her?” Isabel was still looking towards the entrance. “Her name is Courtney, she…” Kyle interrupted, “I remember her now, she worked as a waitress at the Crashdown for a while.”

Isabel nodded, “She was at Copper Summit when we…” she looked around and lowered her voice, “She’s a Skin, but she helped us.”

“No, she helped Michael. That Michael worshipping hussy didn’t care about any of us.” Maria contradicted Isabel.

“How did she survive?” Alex wondered, “Weren’t their husks deteriorating?”

“I don’t know,” Michael turned to leave, “but I can’t stand here yapping, I need to help Max.” Maria grabbed his arm, “Oh no, you don’t. You’re not going anywhere near her!” Michael pulled away from her, “Maria, we don’t know what she’s doing here. What if there are more like her? She could be leading Max and Liz into a trap.”

Alex stood up, “Then we’ll all go.”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Running from the pub, CcCe/Courtney made a mad dash down the street. Tyler saw a flash of her blond hair as she ran towards a small park. “CeCe!” He called as he ran after her, questions swirling in his mind.

“Max,” Liz pointed out across the street, “There goes Tyler, through that park.” They followed.

Tyler gained on ‘CeCe’ as she ran through the park. She made the mistake of turning to look back to see that Tyler had almost reached her. When she looked back in front, her eyes widened as she ran smack into a tree. “Ooomph.” Tyler grabbed her before she could fall. Holding both of her arms, he gasped for breath. “Are you alright?” She nodded, “Yes, I’m fine. Let me go,” as she tried to break away.

Max and Liz rushed up to them and Courtney’s eyes darted between the three of them. As she looked at Max in alarm, she pleaded, “Please… don’t hurt me. I’ll leave, I promise, you’ll never see me again.” Her voice dropped to a whisper, “I just want to be left alone.”

Max was dumbfounded at Courtney’s fear. Liz was also taken aback by her words. “Hurt you? Courtney, Max would never hurt you. No one’s going to hurt you.”

Tyler just stared at her. “Courtney? That’s your name?” She nodded, but avoided his eyes.

“Courtney,” Max spoke softly. “Why would you think I’d hurt you?” Courtney looked at the ground, “Because, you’re the king, and I… I’m…”

“A Michael worshiping traitor?” Maria’s caustic voice rang out. “Maria!” Liz admonished as the others reached them.

“No! I’m not.” Courtney shook her head as she looked at Michael, “Not anymore.”

But Maria was like a dog with a bone, “You even have the same MO. Cozy up to a member of the group so you can infiltrate. So, where are the rest of the Skins, Courtney? Are they here? Waiting to attack us?”

Courtney shrank back against Tyler, “No, that’s not true, not at all. There are no Skins left, just me.” Tyler stared at the trembling girl in his arms, “A Skin? You’re a Skin?” Courtney just hung her head low in defeat.

“Everybody just wait a minute.” Max stated, “Let’s just go back to the RV and…”

“And what?” Maria blurted, “Throw her a Welcome party?”

“Maria! That’s enough.” At Michael’s words, Maria froze and just stared at him. “Enough? Michael, you’re the one who said there might be more of them.”

Michael looked at Courtney, who had drawn in on herself, looking like a cornered animal. “I know what I said, but… I think we should just hear her out.”

Seeing that Maria was about to blow, Alex tried to calm Maria down. “Maria,” Alex wrapped his arm around her shoulder and led her a few feet away, “last time I looked neither of us was green around the gills, let’s just let Max handle this.”


~~~~~~~~~~~

Because the Land Rover wouldn’t comfortably hold them all, Alex, Isabel and Maria chose to take a cab back to the RV, while the others rode in the Rover.

Maria moved through the RV to slam the bedroom door behind her. Michael looked heavenward as he ran his hand over his face. Giving Michael a sympathetic look, Liz followed Maria.

The others settled in at various seats; Isabel, Alex, Kyle and Sera at the dinette, Courtney sat on the couch with Tyler near her while Max took the RV passenger seat. Michael leaned up against the refrigerator, looking uncomfortable with his arms folded across his chest.

There were several moments of silence, as everyone seemed to wait for Max to begin. Max just looked at Tyler, who looked liked he’d been punched in the stomach. He remembered Tyler’s words from just a couple hours earlier; he’d just wanted them all to have a nice night.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


When Liz entered the bedroom, she found Maria pacing in the small space at the end of the bed, mumbling to herself. “…throwing herself at him… her stupid Mickey G’s…can’t believe… defended her…” Maria seemed to be working herself up into a tizzy.

“Maria.” Liz grasped her arm. “Come, sit.” Maria plopped ungraciously on the bed and looked at Liz, “Why, Liz? Why did she have to show up again? Things have been so good between Michael and me.” Seeing the misery in Maria’s eyes, Liz’s heart went out to her friend. “ ‘Ria…”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


The silence back in the front of the RV was broken when Kyle asked, “I hate to break an uncomfortable silence, El Jefe, but don’t you think we should get this party started?”

Max cut his eyes first at Kyle, who just stared back unfazed. As Max looked back at Courtney, he stated, “I thought perhaps we should wait for Liz and Maria.”

Isabel looked back at the closed bedroom door, “Uh… perhaps we’d better just go ahead.”

Max nodded, “Okay,” then he leaned over bracing his hands on his knees. “First of all, no one here is going to hurt you, Courtney. We just need to know how you ended up here.”

Michael spoke up, “After you destroyed the equipment housing the husks, we all ran out, but we never saw you. We thought you stayed with the others.”

“No.” Courtney shook her head, “Nicholas knew that I broke the equipment. When everyone ran out, in the confusion I was able to recover my husk and escape out the back. The other Skins had gathered in front of the storage facility and the explosion was enough of a diversion that I was able to sneak around and steal a car. I drove as far as the gas would take me, but I had to find somewhere for the husk.” She looked over at Max, “The husks weren’t quite ready for harvesting yet, and they needed more time to mature. The husk chambers fed them moisture and nutrients, so I had to hole up at this run down motel so I could keep the husk submerged in the bathtub. I bought bottles of multivitamins to dissolve in the water. Finally, it was mature enough to use,” she shrugged, “and none too soon, since my old husk was shedding like a snake.”

“What happened then?” Isabel asked.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Liz wrapped her arm around Maria’s shoulder, “I know that Courtney turning up alive and well is strange enough all on its own, but for her to be the one Tyler is interested in is…” Liz lifted her shoulders in a confused shrug, “just bizarre. But, Maria, where is all this anger coming from?”

“I’m not angry, I’m…” Maria looked at Liz, “I don’t know what I am, but Liz, you didn’t see them that night. At her apartment, Courtney coming out with that towel wrapped around her…”

“Maria, I know how hurt you were seeing that, but you know now that he was just investigating her. Michael loves you.”

Maria shook her head, “But what if I hadn’t shown up, just how far would things have gone? Investigation or not, I know that Michael was attracted to her. I saw it when she was throwing herself at him.” She wiped at the tears on her face, “Maybe Madam Vivian was right when she said we were doomed. What if Michael was meant to choose her, and when she disappeared, he just settled for me?”


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Courtney gave Isabel a slight smile, “I took to the road and never looked back. I don’t know what happened to any of the other Skins. I spent a couple of months here and there, working as a waitress. I arrived here in late April, took a job at The Silver Cup. This is a nice place, so I planned on staying until fall, before moving on again before winter set in.”

“If you like it here, why were you planning on leaving?” Max asked. Courtney pointed at her face, “I figured I needed to keep on the move, not much point in settling down anywhere special, after all, a couple of years and people might begin to notice that I don’t age.” Courtney looked at Michael, “I had no idea that any of you were Tyler’s friends…”

She looked at Tyler, “I’m so sorry, Tyler. I’ve known since Copper Summit that I could never have a real relationship, but you were so nice, and… I just wanted to feel ‘normal’ for a few days.”

“Guess we have something in common after all.” She gave Tyler a puzzled look as he spoke. “Courtney, haven’t you wondered why I’m hanging out with Max and Company? Sera and I aren’t from around here, either. She’s like Max, Michael and Isabel. I’m a Shapeshifter. This is my base shape, so I’ll never show that I’m aging either.”

She looked at him in surprise, “You’re an… Antarian?”

He smiled, “Just like you.”

Courtney gave him a wobbly smile in return; feeling like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. Maybe she wasn’t alone after all.


~~~~~~~~~~~~


Everyone’s attention was diverted when the bedroom door opened and Liz stepped out. She looked at Michael, “Michael, can we speak? Outside?” She headed for the door expecting him to follow, which he did.

As the others looked questioningly at Max, “Don’t look at me, we can’t read each other’s minds, ya know.”

A few minutes later, they heard a bellow. “She thinks what!!!? Damnation!” The door was jerked open and Michael stormed into the RV, “Maria!” He threw up his hand and the bedroom door flew open, revealing Maria sitting on the bed, dabbing at her eyes. Startled, she jumped to her feet, “Michael…” He grabbed her arm, “Are you trying to drive me crazy?” as he began to pull her through the trailer, when she resisted, “Let me go, you big lug.” He picked her up and slung her over his shoulder. “Michael! Put me down, you cretin.” When she wriggled, he smacked her on the butt. “I have a lot to say to you, Maria, so just pipe down.” And he started out the RV.

“Aughhhh!” Seeing Max, she called out, “Max! Help! You’re his leader, order him to put me down.”

Max looked at Liz, “Should we…?” Liz just shook her head with a mischievous grin. “I think Michael has things well in hand.”

As Michael carried Maria down the walkway, a cheeky Kyle leaned out the door and called out, “Enjoy your evening, come back and see us now, ya hear?”


~~~~~~~~~~~~
TBC ~