By Starlight * Why Did I Let You Go? by MoonBaby19 *

Title: Why Did I Let You Go?
Author: MoonBaby19
Category: AU/ UC Mi/L some M/L
Summary: Michael and Liz have been best friends for 10 years. Michael is friends with Max but Liz doesn�t know him. Michael ends up setting Max and Liz up on a blind date. Was it a mistake to let her go?
Authors Note: Okay, so I finished my first polar fic Bad Religion and had to start another one. This is dedicated to everyone who read that story and who pushed me to write another one.
Feedback: Of course, I couldn�t write without it!

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Part 1

Michael reached into the refrigerator and grabbed the carton of milk. There were no clean glasses so he figured he�d just drink right from the carton.

�What the hell do you think you�re doing?� Liz said running over to him. �I told you hundreds of times! You can do that at your own house, but not here!� The first time she had caught him doing that, it was already too late. He had already taken a sip. He was like an animal that needed to be watched twenty-four-seven. But, he was her best friend.

�Sorry� Michael replaced the milk into the fridge. He should of known she would catch him.

�Just clean a glass,� Liz said as she reached into the sink pulled out a cup and started to wash it.

�You know Liz, you really should get a dishwasher.�

�The only reason I have no clean dishes is because you use them all. Maybe instead of getting a dishwasher I should get rid of you.�

�Aw, that hurts Liz it really does,� Michael said clutching is chest in pretend pain. Liz finished with the cup and handed it to Michael. �Thanks! Have I told you that I love you today?� he asked with a smile.

�No, and you should be at my feet saying it,� Liz laughed. Her and Michael were the best of friends. They were so close and had always been.

�Not on your life, I�ll never grovel at your feet. So what are you doing to night?�

�I think I�ll just stay home and watch some television.�

�Liz, you need to get out.� Liz always sat at home. It would be Friday night and she would be on the couch watching television. Sometimes he would stay at her house to keep her company, but even he couldn�t stand to stay in a cramped apartment for that long.

�Michael don�t start with me again. I�ll go out when I want to. So are you going out with what�s her name again tonight?�

�Her name is Isabel and yes, I am seeing her tonight�

Liz had only met Isabel once and knew for sure that she was wrong for Michael. Of course she was beautiful with her long blonde hair and perfect figure, but she wasn�t good for Michael, not that anyone really was. As much as Liz hated to admit it, she was kind of jealous of Isabel. Not that she liked Michael, I mean she couldn�t he was her best friend. But that she envied all the time she got to spend with Michael lately.

�So you�re really going to stay home alone again?� Michael asked hoping that Liz would change her mind. He felt bad for her. He wanted so much for her to get some sort of life. He wanted her to got out and have some fun. She needed a man in her life. The last guys she had dated was over 6 months ago. Of course Michael hated the guys, but maybe the next guy would be good enough for her. Who was he kidding, no guy would be good enough for her.

�Yes, I�m staying home end of discussion! What time do you have to pick up Isabel, it�s already 8?�

�@#%$! I�m late. I have to go,� Michael said as he got up from his seat and placed a friendly kiss on Liz�s cheek. �See ya tomorrow.�

�Yeah, see ya.�

Liz was again alone. She stood in the kitchen frozen in place. When Michael had kissed her cheek, Liz felt something she had never felt before. When he kissed her, she had enjoyed it. Not like a normal friendly kiss, but as something more. Was she starting to have feelings for Michael? No of course not, she wasn�t starting to have feelings for him, she had felt this way since she broke up with her last boyfriend. She had tried to forget about the feeling, pretend they weren�t there, but lately they were getting stronger. She couldn�t tell Michael. He didn�t feel the same and their friendship would be ruined. No she would have to keep this to herself. Michael wouldn�t ever go for her. He liked girls like Isabel not her.

Liz cuddled up on the couch with a pillow and turned on the TV. Another lonely night with only her and a bag of popcorn. This was beyond pathetic. She needed a change, she needed a life.

Part 2

He was beyond nervous. Why did he agree to do this? He had only been dating Isabel for two weeks and he was already meeting her family. As he looked around the table he notice the resemblance right away. Mrs. Evans had blonde hair like Isabel, her father had her same eyes. Her brother on the other hand didn't hold much of a resemblance at all. He had dark hair and didn't speak much. Max, her brother, look as excited as Michael was to be here. Isabel was busy talking to her parents, and Michael felt like a fifth wheel. "So, Iz tells me your pretty good at basketball" a voice said. Michael turned to see that Max had actually spoken to him.

"Oh, yeah I play in my spare time."

"Me too. You should come over sometime and we can get a game going."

"Sounds cool." That's when Michael knew that he and Max would get along great. That they could be friends.

The rest of the night went fine and after a little more small talk and dropping Isabel off at her apartment, Micheal was glad to be going home.

There were tissues everywhere. She had gone through an entire box. Liz had once again watched Titanic. She really hated the movie and it always made her cry, but she had a crush on Billy Zaine so it was worth it. And, for some odd reason, it felt good to cry. A feast of buttery popcorn and ice cream plus a sappy movie just seemed to fit her mood.

The credits were now rolling and Liz sat covered in used tissues. 'God I'm pathetic" she said to herself as she got off the couch. She looked up at the kitchen clock. It was 1 in the morning. Where was Michael? He always comes over to tell her how his date went. A thought suddenly hit Liz. What if he was staying at Isabel's? What if they decided to take their relationship to the next level? The thought almost brought tears to her eyes.

Liz slowly walked into her room and threw herself on the bed. She curled up and closed her eyes. This day needed to be over.

Michael grabbed the key that Liz always kept under her door mat and unlocked the door. He stepped inside and instantly saw the mounds of tissues. "She must have watched Titanic," Michael laughed. "Liz? Michael looked through the Livingroom and not finding her, made his way to her bedroom.

He cracked the door open and saw the sleeping figure on the bed. 'She always waits up for me. I wonder what happened?" Michael asked himself as he reached for the crumpled covers at Liz's feet and pulled them up and over her. Taking one last look, Michael slipped out the door. He needed to do something for Liz. She needed a life. If she wouldn't go out and get one herself, he would have to do it for her. Then he got an idea. He would set her up. He would send her on a blind date. Of course she would be pissed, but she would eventually get over it. Now he had to find the right guy for her. Suddenly, he knew exactly who to call.

Liz woke up with a horrible headache. She pulled back the covers and walked into her kitchen, hoping that she still had some Tylenol left.

"Morning sunshine"

"Morning" Liz said as she walked over to the cabinet. She couldn't look Michael in the eye. "What are you ding here so early?"

"I'm always here this early," Michael said surprised. He always came over to eat breakfast and watch some cartoons on Saturdays.

"Oh, I thought you would still be at Isabel�s"

"Why would you think that?" Micheal said again surprised. Why the hell would Liz think he would be at Isabel's this early.

"Well, you didn't come by last night so I figured you had stayed over with her," Liz answered still not looking at him. She hated that she was jealous. She hated feeling what she had been lately, but she couldn�t help it. And looking at him right now would just make her fall apart.

"I didn't stay with Iz. We have only been dating for two weeks. I thought you knew me better than that. It just took a little while longer to get home than usual." He was astonished. Liz thought he had stayed with Isabel? So that was why she was asleep when he got home.

Relief flooded over Liz�s body and it seemed like her headache was going away already. "Oh, I figured since you didn't come over you stayed with her."

"I came over. You were just already asleep. And I was pretty bummed that you left me like that," Michael said pretending to be hurt.

"Sorry"

"No problem."

"So, what are you doing today?"

"Not much, you?"

"I have to go into work. They talked me into taking another shift."

"So..uh are you free tomorrow night?"

"Yeah why?"

"Okay, Liz don't get mad at me."

"@#%$, what the hell did you do?" Liz asked. She was starting to panic.

"Well, there is this guy that I want you to meet. Now don't roll your eyes at me. This guy is really nice and I think he would be perfect for you."

Liz sat there not knowing what to do. She really didn't want to go out. Plus, no guy be perfect for he unless it was Michael. But, then again she must look really pathetic staying home all the time. "Okay"

"Okay?"

"Yeah, I mean I can't stay in the apartment forever. I could use this" "GREAT! We are going out tomorrow night."

"We?"

"Yeah, I figured that since you really don't know him it would be good if Isabel and I came. He's Isabel's brother by the way. His name is Max."

"Max? That's a good name. I like him already" Liz left the room to take a shower.

Michael was left there standing speechless. He thought it would be a lot harder to talk her into this. Yet, she was ready and willing. Michael just hoped that Max was a good of a guy as he seemed to be.

Part 3

He had picked up both Isabel and Max. Isabel looked great in her new sexy red dress that showed off all her assets. She sat in the passenger seat while Max sat in the back. Michael could tell that Max was nervous.

"Don't worry man, she wont bite," Michael said looking back to Max.

"Sorry, I can't help it. Do you think she'll like me? Will I like her? Why did I agree with this I don't even know her." Max said wandering what exactly he was doing.

"That's the idea behind a blind date Max. Don't worry. She's Michael's friend. I think he knows Liz enough to find a guy that she would like," Isabel said trying to calm Max down.

"Don't worry Max, you're perfect for her."

"Does this one look okay?" Liz asked Alex. Alex was another one of her friends. Of course he wasn't as close to her as Michael, but if it was possible to have two best friends, he was the other one.

"You look great, but you looked great in all of the dresses you've tried on."

"Thanks, but I need you to be serious. Which dress should I wear?"

"Uh...definitely the black one. It shows off your curves." For that comment, Liz threw a pillow at his head. "Hey! I was just telling you the truth. You asked me to and now you hit me. You are so abusive! Now go change. They will be here any minute."

Liz ran into the bathroom and threw on her dress. She took the curling iron and began to curl her hair with one hand and applied her makeup with the other. It was hard, but she had to do it all quickly. They would be here in fifteen minutes.

Finally she was done and Liz stepped out of the bathroom. "So, what do you think?"

"You look beautiful. By the way, you should dress up more often. I don't know how long it's been since I've even seen you in a dress. And makeup, it's been a lot longer."

"I'll take that as a good thing, now get the hell out of here," Liz said as she pushed him out the door.

"Fine, I'm going"

Alex left and Liz looked back up at the clock. "Five minutes"

Michael, Max, and Isabel climbed the stairs to Liz's apartment. Michael couldn't wait for Liz to met Max. Isabel felt the same. Max was just terrified. He had never done anything like this before.

Michael stopped at the door and knocked. He would usually use the key, but he figured it was best not to. After a few minutes, he heard the click of heels and the door cracked open. There she stood. Liz looked ravishing. He was not used to seeing her like this. She looked...beautiful. Her long black dress clung to her body, showing her curves. Curves Michael had never really gotten to see. She always wore jeans and long T-shirts.

"Hi." Liz said wondering why Michael was just standing there.

"Uh, Hi." He said as he finally stepped past her and into the room. He was followed by Isabel and then Max.

When Liz spotted Max, her heart skipped a beat the way it had been lately with Michael. Max was beyond good looking. He had the body of a god and the face of an angel. His skin was the perfect tone and his smile was incredibly sexy.

The moment Max looked through the door and saw Liz his heart stopped beating. She was incredibly beautiful. Her hair was long and curled. Her eyes were a sexy brown.

"Liz, this is Max Isabel's brother," Michael finally said getting his voice back.

"It's nice to meet you Max," Liz said as she extended her hand. Max readily took it.

"Nice to meet you too." both Max and Liz stared at each other for what seemed to be an eternity. Michael seeing this got and uneasy feeling. He didn't know why, but he felt the need to end it. "So we should get going," he said as he headed for the door.

"Yeah, our reservations are for 8:00 and it's almost 8 now," Isabel said as she took Michael�s arm and let him lead her out of the apartment.

Liz like wise took Max's arm. It seemed strange that she already felt at home with him enough to do that, but she did.

As they stepped out of the car and into the restaurant, Michael was having trouble concentrating. He didn't know why, but he was constantly looking to see if Liz was having a good time. By the looks of it she was. She was constantly laughing at whatever Max was saying. This pissed Michael off. He was confused as to why he was angry that Liz was having such a good time, but he couldn't help it.

Liz was having the time of her life. Max was the perfect gentleman. As they ate their food, they talked and talked. They had a lot in common. He was just perfect. Michael had really picked a good man for her. Liz was happy that she didn't have to deal with the weird feelings she was getting for Michael anymore, she could just concentrate on Max. He was a great guy and not to mention, hotter than any other guy she had ever seen.

After they paid the bill, the four of them walked across the street to the movie theater. They were going to see "A Knights Tale". Isabel had suggested it because she really like Heath Ledger and of course Liz had agreed. Max bought Liz's ticket and Michael bought Isabel's. They entered the movie theater and it was already black. The preview were coming on.

"Do you see a place with four seats?" Isabel asked.

"No, it's pretty crowed," Liz said back.

"We may have to sit apart from each other." Isabel said as she again took Michael's arm. "There's two seat's over there and two up front."

"We can take the ones up front," Liz said to Max and he readily agreed.

"Okay, we'll meet up at the end of the show," Michael said not really wanting to leave Liz alone with Max.

"okay" Liz whispered back. Liz grabbed Max's hand and led him down the aisle and into the seats. She was happy to be alone with him. Even if it was in a crowded movie theater.

"Sorry we couldn't all sit together," Max said trying to hide the fact that he was ecstatic about being alone with her.

"I'm not" Liz said as she held his hand. They both smiled.

Michael couldn't help but stare at the couple a few rows ahead of him. Liz and Max seemed so comfortable with each other. They were even holding hands. Michael wanted to walk down there and rip their hands apart, but he couldn't. No, it was his idea that they even go out. So why was he feeling so horrible about the entire thing? Why didn't he want Liz to be happy. Then hit hit him. He did want Liz to be happy, but not with someone else. He wanted her to be happy with him.

Part 4

Micheal pulled the car up to Liz's apartment building. He was about to get out when her felt Isabel's arm on his shoulder.

"Let them say goodbye in private," Isabel whispered into his ear.

"You're right" That was the last thing that Michael wanted, but it was the right thing to do. Michael gripped the steering wheel tighter.

Max and Liz walked up the her apartment in silence. Liz had a wonderful time, and really didn�t want the night to end.

"It was great getting to meet you tonight. TO be honest I wasn't really sure about this whole blind date thing, but I'm glad I did it," Max said with a smile.

"Me too," Liz blushed.

"Can I see you again sometime? Maybe we can go out on a date by ourselves," Max laughed.

"Yeah, that sounds great"

"Okay then how about Friday, I pretty much have to work the entire week so Friday would be the best day, if you can."

"Yeah, what time?"

"How about 8:00?"

"I'll see you then," Liz said as she stepped into her apartment. But, as she did, Max took a step forward and slowly leaned in for a kiss. He was giving her time to pull away if she ad wanted to. Of course, she didn't. She leaned forward and lightly kissed his soft lips.

"Good night Liz," Max said as he back away and headed down the hall.

"Good night." Liz closed the door and leaned on it. Max Evans was on hot man.

"So do you wanna come up?� Isabel asked with a seductive smile.

"Uh...I think I should just get going"

"Okay, but you have no idea what you're missing," Isabel said as she got out of the car.

"Bye Isabel"

"Bye"

Michael started the car and speed off. He knew what Isabel had wanted. She had been hinting around to it for weeks. He just couldn't do it. He had no idea why until tonight. He had feelings for Liz. AS much as he wanted to deny it, he knew it was true.

Michael parked the car once again outside of Liz's apartment building and ran to the apartment. He took the key and unlocked the door.

"Hey," Liz said getting up from the couch.

"Hey, whatcha doing?"

"Nothing just watching TV waiting for you," Liz smiled

"So how do you think it went?" Michael asked dreading and needing the unwires all at once.

"Michael, you did a great job!" Liz yelled and threw her arms around his neck. "He's perfect for me Michael, I had no idea you would pick such a great guy!"

"Why not? I've known you for so long," Michael said breaking the hug. As much as he wanted to stay in the embrace, he couldn't let himself. He was feeling to much for her.

"I know, but you just exceeded my expectations! And guess what"

"What?"

"He asked me out again! We're going out on Friday!"

Michael could see that Liz was happy. He was glad that she seemed to enjoy herself, but angry that it wasn't because of him. "Really? So you really like this guy?"

"Yes, I do. He's sweet, a gentleman, and not to mention hot!"

"I'm glad you had a good time. Look I should really get going."

"Why? You just got here?"

"I know, but I need a shower and a good nights rest."

What was wrong with him. Liz could tell something was wrong, but couldn't quite figure it out.

"What's wrong?"

"Nothings wrong," Michael said looking away.

"I can tell that something is wrong Michael!"

"Look nothing is wrong so stop asking me okay!" Michael snapped and walked out of the apartment.

Liz was astonished. Michael never yelled. well, he yelled, but never at her. Liz jumped off of the couch and ran after him.

"Michael wait up!" she yelled as she ran down the stairs.

When she opened the door that led to the parking lot, she saw him about to get in his car. "Michael wait!"

Michael stopped. He wasn't sure what to do. He knew that he should get into the car and rive away as quickly as possible. That is he didn't he would do something he would regret.

"Michael, look at me!"

Michael slowly turned at looked at Liz.

"What is wrong?" she asked.

"Look, it's complicated"

"So, I'm your best friend and you can't tell me?"

"Liz you don't understand."

"You're right! I don't understand because you are keeping me in the dark!" Liz walked closer to him so that they were only a foot apart. "Tell me"

Michael did the only thing he could do. He stepped forward and pushed his lips against hers. Her lips tasted sweet like the strawberries she had been eating. Michael pulled back and looked into Liz's wide eyes. "Now you know," Michael said as he stepped into his car and drove away.

Liz was left standing alone and not sure of what had just happened.

Part 5

Liz stood in the middle of the parking lot unable to move. It had been 10 minutes since Michael had driven away and still she could not move. Her mind was racing . What the hell had just happened? Michael kissed her. It made absolutely no sense. He was with Isabel and seemed really happy. He even forced her to go out on a blind date with Max. So why did he do what he just did?

Liz was finally able to move and walked slowly back to her apartment. She was beyond confused. Did he have feelings for her? What were her feelings for him? She had really enjoyed tonight with Max. What was she supposed to do now? Liz felt the tears about to from in her eyes and ran the rest of the way to her apartment. She closed her door and put her back up against it then slid to the ground. She couldn�t hold back her tears any longer.

Michael gripped the steering wheel as if it were desperately trying to get away from him. His knuckles were white from his grip. He couldn�t believe what he had just done. He had kissed her. He had actually kissed Liz. Liz, who was his best friend. Michael pulled into his parking space and shut off the car. He sat trying to think of how to remedy the situation. There was no use in trying. He had @#%$ everything up. He had made a move on his best friend who after today would probably no longer be his friend.

Michael walked into his apartment and frowned. It was the first time in years that he had been home before 12:00. He was usually over at Liz�s talking about his dates or watching a movie. Just the thought made Michael want to cry. He slumped down on his couch and laid back his head so that he was staring at the ceiling. Then, out of the corner of his eye he saw a red flashing. There was a message on his answering machine. For a moment he couldn�t help the feeling of joy that washed over him as he thought that it could be from Liz. His joy was short lived after he pushed the button and Isabel�s voice filled the air.

�Hey Michael. I just called to tell you that I had a great time tonight. Max said that he had a great time with Liz and that they are going out again soon! Isn�t that great. I�m glad they are getting along. Now we have a couple to go out with. Well, I�ll talk to you later! Bye!�

Michael winced. He had completely forgot about how his little mistake would affect Isabel. She would be pissed if he told her that he kissed Liz. But it would be the honest thing to do. Then again, Liz wouldn�t want Isabel to know about it and, it would never happen again.

Liz awoke the next morning to the sun creeping through her curtains. She slowly got out of bed and headed to the kitchen. For a moment she was surprised to not see Michael sitting at the counter eating her cereal, but then she remembered what had happened the night before. Her heart sank as she realized that from now on things would be different between her and Michael.

Liz reached into the fridge and grabbed the milk. Even the milk reminded her of Michael. She shook off that thought and got down a bowl and some cereal. As she sat at her table eating, she had never felt so alone in her life.

Michael rolled off of the couch. His neck hurt from sleeping on that old hard couch. He walked over to his fridge and opened it only to find it empty. �No wonder I go over to Liz�s.� Michael reached for his jacket and grabbed his car keys. He needed to go to the store to get some milk.

Liz turned the faucet to fill up the bathtub. This was what she needed, a nice hot bath to relax in and take her troubles away. She filled the water with bubble bath and brought in her new cloths to change into. That was when she noticed. She was out of shampoo. �Great! Just perfect, I can�t even relax and take a bath!� Liz stopped the water and went to get her coat. She picked up her car keys and headed out the door.

Liz hated shopping. It seemed like every time she went in to grab something quickly she always ended up with a cart full of stuff. First she had grabbed the shampoo then some conditioner just in case. As she walked by the frozen food section, she had to pick up some ice cream. Ice cream was perfect for making your troubles disappear. She was then off to the dairy section to grab some milk so that she could make a shake when she stopped dead in her tracks. There right in front of her was Michael. She wanted to run, but they were practically face-to-face.

Liz tried to casually step forward. �Hey�

�Hey,� Michael whispered back. She could tell that he was having problems looking him in the eye.

�So, what�s going on?�

�Uh, I just stopped in to get some milk.�

�You�re actually shopping? And you�re getting your own milk? WOW,� Liz joked. She was trying to lighten the mood but it obviously wasn�t working.

�Yeah�

�So, what are you doing tonight? Braveheart is going to be on TV tonight.� Liz said hoping that Michael and her would still be able to hang out.

�Oh�uh I have this thing I have to do tonight.�

�Really? Well, we can do something tomorrow.�

�I can�t do anything tomorrow�I�I�m busy. Well I should really get going, I have to be at work in an hour,� Michael said as he walked away.

Liz was heart broken. She hoped that she and Michael would still be friends even if it were a bit awkward. From the looks of things, it didn�t seem like that would be the case. A tear slid down Liz�s cheek as she pushed her cart forward.

Michael quickly paid for his milk and walked out to his car. He was angry with himself for lying to her. He was free tonight and tomorrow, but he just couldn�t face her right now. He had no idea what she made of his actions and was afraid to find out. But there Liz was trying to salvage their friendship and he was throwing it away. She was acting as if nothing had happened, but he could pretend. Something had happened. He had fallen for his best friend. His friend who now was with Max.

Part 6

Liz hurried home and ran to the phone. She needed to talk to someone. After seeing how Michael acted towards her in the store she knew things would never be the same.

"Hello?" a half asleep voice said into the phone.

"Tess? Is that you?" Liz asked.

"Yeah, who is this?"

"It's Liz."

"Liz? Oh my God Liz! How are you? What's been going on? How come you haven't called me in like...three weeks? I was worried," Tess said obviously upset."

"Well let's start with the simple question. I haven't called you because I have been pretty busy. Now how I've been doing and what's going on is the really crazy part."

"So you kissed her," Kyle said when Michael stopped speaking. Kyle and Michael had been good friends since high school. Of course they were by no means as close as Liz and Michael were.

"Yeah, I @#%$ kissed her. What the @#%$ is the matter with me? She's my best friend for fucks sake!"

"Calm down for a minute," Kyle said trying to get Michael to stop yelling. "Do you like her?"

That question caught Michael off guard. He wasn't ready to answer that yet. He wasn't even sure what he felt. Well, that was a lie. He knew he felt something. "I'm not sure."

"What the hell do you mean you're not sure? Okay then, tell me this. Did you enjoy kissing her?"

I...I don't know. I uh... I mean I might have," Michael said stumbling over every word.

"You like her," Kyle said plainly

"I do?"

"Yeah you do. You are afraid she doesn't feel the same way and that is why you are afraid to say you actually like her. It would mean that everything is changing and you're not comfortable with that."

"I hate it when you actually make sense Kyle."

"Yeah," Liz yelled into the phone, "He acted like I was a stranger! Like he wouldn't have even said hi if I hadn't said it first. Of course after he left I broke down crying in the middle of the store."

"That bastard! To treat you like that after everything you guys have been through together, what a jerk!" Tess screamed. She was very protective when it came to Liz and wouldn't stand for any guy treating her wrong.

"I just don't know what to do!"

"I'll tell you what to do. I say you go for this Max guy you've told me about. You need to show Michael that if he wants to act like he doesn't know you then you can do the same thing. Go out and have some fun. Max seems like a great guy and he seems to know that he has a great girl!"

"You know what, you're right. Why should I be the one crying my eyes out? If he can't even talk to me about this, then I don't need to even think about it. I have a date with Max tomorrow anyway, so I'll just forget this entire Michael situation and have a great time!" Liz smiled. She would make herself have a great time.

"Good for you girl!"

"yeah now lets see if I can actually do it first before you start congratulating me," Liz sighed. "look I have to go, I'll call you back tomorrow."

"All right, and don't for get to have some fun with Max!"

"Bye"

"Bye"

"So what do I do?" Michael asked Kyle.

"You go and talk to her. Tell her how you fell and you better apologize for how you treated her in the store. It sounds like you were pretty cold."

"I was but I do regret it." That was the truth. Michael had regretted walking away and lying to her the minute he stepped out of the store but what could he do?

"So go talk to her."

'She'll be at work to night. I'll talk to her tomorrow."

"You better do it ASAP because if she and this Max character are getting along as good as you said they were, you may have some competition."

"I don't even know how she feel about me, there may be no competition at all. She may not feel anything for me."

"Well there is only one way to find out."

"Yeah, I know."

It was 6:00 in the morning, and Michael was already out of bed and changing into some clothes. He had made up his mind last night that he would go talk to Liz this morning before she was off to work. He threw on a pair of jeans and a T-shirt and ran out the door.

Once parked outside her apartment complex, Michael took the stair to her apartment two at a time. He was beyond nervous, but he knew he had to make things right. He reached her apartment and instinctively reached for the key he knew was there. He decided against using the key and knocked on the door. No one answered. He began to pound until the next door neighbor began yelling at him. Why was Liz not coming to the door? She was always here at this time of the morning.

Michael made his way back down the steps and out the door to the parking lot. He looked around for her car and found that it was not there. Where the hell could she be?

Liz decided that she would get up early and run down to the bakery just down the street, That way for once she would have fresh coffee and a bagel before work. She got dressed and headed out of her apartment at around 6:00. She pulled up to the bakery and walked inside. She never really liked to get up early on a work day, but today was different. after talk ing to Tess on the phone the night before, she realized that she needed changes in her life. She couldn't sleep in all day and wait for Michael to come over to steal her milk. She couldn�t wait up all night for Michael to come over and talk about his dates with her. She needed a life outside of Michael. And today would be the start of that life.

After finishing her coffee and half of her bagel, Liz drove off to work. She had to get through the day then she would be going out with Max tonight.

Michael got in his car and headed to the nearest McDonald�s. He figured he could drown his sorrows in a breakfast sandwich or two. He figured that he would just talk to Liz later when she got home from work. Since he didn't have work today, well technically he did, but he called off, so he figured he could just bid his time until she got home.

Five hours and two more stops at McDonald�s later, Michael was again sitting out side of Liz's apartment building. he knew she would be home in about an hour so he figured he would wait there so that he didn't miss her when she came home.

Earlier than expected, he saw Liz's car pull in. He ducked down just enough so that she would not see him. Since he was parked behind another car, she would not be able to see his car. She looked beautiful. Her long brown hair was pulled back in a loose pony tail. Of course she often wore it like that, but only now did he realize how perfect it looked.

Michael sat in his car for another half hour. He wanted to go see Liz right away, but his feet wouldn't let him. Finally he got the courage to get tout of the car and again walk up her steps. When he reached the door, he lightly tapped it. It took a moment, but then he heard Liz's voice through the door.

"Hold on a second"

Then the door flew open revealing a very shocked Liz.

"Michael? What are you doing her?"

"I came to talk to you," Michael said as he stepped passed her and into the apartment.

"Okay," she said as she closed the door. She stood looking at the door for a moment before turning to face him.

"Look, I...I wanted to say sorry for yesterday in the store I-"

"There is no need to apologize Michael. I understand. You did something you regretted and you were embarrassed. I understand why you acted that way."

"No, you don't. I...I did do something I am embarrassed about, but not for the reason you think," Michael said looking anywhere but at her face. Of course if he had been looking at her, she was not looking at him either, her face was locked on the floor.

"Michael, I just want you to know that it's okay that you made that mistake. Don't know or understand why you did it, but I understand that it was a mistake."

"Liz, that's what I am trying to tell you, it...it wasn't a mistake."

Liz wasn't sure what he was saying. Was he saying he wanted to kiss her, that it was not a mistake to kiss her? No, that's not what he means. "Michael, what do you mean?"

"mean that I do not regret kissing you, I wanted to kiss you. I..I just don't know what to do now."

just then there was a knocking at the door. Michael looked up to the door as Liz opened it.

"Hey Liz," Max said as he entered the room. "Hey Michael!"

Liz closed the door and looked at the two men in her apartment. Michael was now looking at the carpet and Max was standing there with a smile on his face.

"WOW Liz you look beautiful, are you ready to go?" Max asked.

"Yeah, just let me get my bag," Liz said as she walked back to her room. When she walked back into the living room, Max was standing there alone.

"Michael left and told me to tell you that he hopes you have fun tonight and that he's sorry," Max said walking over to Liz. "Maybe this is none of my business, but what is he sorry for?"

"Oh, nothing important," Liz said as she walked out of the apartment with her arm in Max's arm. She felt horrible. She liked Max, but she wanted so badly to talk to Michael and find out what he felt for her. Max opened the car door for her and she stepped in.

"Liz are you okay?" Max asked as he got in the car.

"Yeah, I'm fine."

Part 8

Liz sat through dinner thinking about Michael. When they went to the movies she didn't even know what was going on the screen because all she could thick of was Michael.

"Liz?" Max asked as he looked at her dazed face. "LIZ?!"

"Huh? What?"

"Liz, are you sure you're okay? I mean we can leave if you want to," Max said in a whisper. They were in the movie theater, but he needed to find out what was wrong with Liz.

"No, I want to stay," Liz replied with a fake smile.

Michael drove as fast as he could over to Isabel's. When she answered her door, Michael didn't even give he time to speak. His lips were planted on hers. He kissed her hard as he closed the door behind him.

Isabel had wanted this for weeks now. They hadn't been dating long, but she wanted him form day one. Of course he never seemed to want to make a move. Now he was, and she wasn't going to stop him.

Michael wanted to forget the world. He wanted to forget one person in particular, Liz. He had never slept with a woman before, but he was ready now. He wasn't ready for the right reasons, but what did that matter. His life was already @#%$ up, why not @#%$ it up some more?

Isabel led Michael to the bed room and onto the bed.

Liz and Max were parked out side of her apartment building. He reached over and grabbed Liz lightly under her chin and pushed her ace up towards his. He lightly kissed her lips giving her enough time and room to back away if she wanted to. But she didn't. Liz kissed Max back. She knew that it wasn't what she wanted. She wanted Michael. Suddenly Liz pulled out of the kiss.

"I can�t. I'm sorry Max but I can't."

" I understand," Max said disappointed.

"No, you don't. I haven't been out with a guy in a long time and I really need to take things super slow."

"i understand."

"Thank you Max."

"So, you want me to walk you up?" Max asked with a smile.

"No, that's okay. Thanks Max. I did have a good time."

"Me too."

Liz stepped out of the car and walked to her apartment building.

Michael was now topless as he rolled around with Isabel on the bed. Then, she said something that made him stop everything he was doing.

"I love you Michael"

Michael sat up straight in the bed.

"What's wrong Micheal?" Isabel asked.

"I can't do this. It's not right." Michael said as he got up from the bed. "I...I don't..I mean I can't. I have to go."

"What?! What do you mean you can't do this? I have waited for what seems like forever to do this! If you leave now...just forget it. If you leave you will be leaving our relationship, because I can't deal with this @#%$ anymore!" Isabel screamed as Michael left the apartment.

He ran down the steps and to his car. he knew where he needed to go. He needed to get to her. He needed to see her and tell her everything he felt. He needed to go back to Liz's.

When Liz heard the knocking at her front door, her first instinct was to grab the baseball bat she kept by the side of her bed. She had gotten into bed not ten minutes before she heard the knocking. She slowly opened the door to reveal Michael.

"Michael? What are you doing here so late?" Liz asked as she moved aside to let him in.

"I always come over her after my dates," Michael said moving over to the couch.

"Oh, so you came to tell me about your date with Isabel?" Liz asked.

"Yeah, and to ask you how things went with Max," Michael said looking at the television which was not even on.

"Well Max and I went to the movies and dinner. Not much to tell there."

"Did he kiss you?" Michael asked.

"Uh...yeah...he did," Liz said slightly embarrassed.

"Did you...did you enjoy it?" Michael asked not wanting but needing to know.

"I'm not sure. Anyway, how did things go with Isabel?" Liz asked changing the subject. The way Michael was asking the questions was making her feel uncomfortable.

"Well, I went over there ready to sleep with her," Michael answered.

Liz's eyes went wide with shock . "You went over there to have sex with her?"

"Yes. But...then something happened. I..I couldn't go through with it Liz. I couldn't sleep with her. I knew it would be wrong to do. Do you know why?" Michael asked looking Liz in the eyes for the first time since he arrived.

"No," Liz said in a whisper.

"Because I do not love her. I did not want my first time to be with someone I didn't love. I couldn't be with her because she was not you."

Part 9

Liz stared at him not knowing what to say. as much as she wanted to speak she just couldn't say a word.

"Look Liz, I know you don't feel the same way. I...I understand. I know that you didn't do anything to make me even think you cared about me in that way. I know that when I kissed you that you didn't kiss me back. I know that you like Max. I know that you want to be my friend, but I feel so much more. I can't stop thinking about you and I can't help the way I feel."

Liz was shocked. She never thought that Michael felt this much for her. She thought that his kissing her as a mistake. Liz was about to speak when Michael spoke again.

"I...uh guess that i should leave," Michael said getting up to leave.

"NO! I mean no, I want you to stay," Liz said as she stood up and took him by the arm. She turned him around to face her. That's when she saw the unshed tears in his eyes.

Michael looked up at her and tired to hold in the tears. She was so beautiful. He wanted nothing more than to taste hr lips again. But he couldn't do that. He needed to know how she felt. "Liz? Do you feel anything for me?" Michael managed to say while choking on his tears. "If you don't feel anything for me, please tell me. I need to know the truth. Don't spare my feelings, just tell me the truth."

"Michael I, I feel things."

"Things?"

"Well, the past few weeks I have felt differently about you. Even before the kiss. I guess I just hide it because I was afraid of what the feeling meant. I had no idea that you had any feelings for me. You always seemed to happy with Isabel."

Michael couldn't help but smile. "So you do have feelings for me?"

"Yes" Michael couldn't resist any longer. He wrapped his arms around her and wouldn't let go. He needed to be close to her. After such a hard night of not knowing what he would do if he lost her, her finally had her. He was not letting go any time soon.

"I was so afraid you wouldn't feel the same way about me. that's why i was such an @#%$ to you in the store. I am so sorry about that. God Liz, I am so happy. You have made me so happy," Michael said as he ran his fingers through her hair. He bent down and found Liz's lips. They tasted sweet, like only she could taste.

Liz looked up at him and smiled. Michael smiled back.

"I never thought that we would end up like this," he said as they snuggled up together on the couch.

"Me neither," Liz laughed.

"I am so glad that I decided to come over here tonight. I almost chickened out."

Liz laughed. " I'm glad you came over. I thought things would never be the same again."

"Things will never be the same again," Michael said as he kissed her again. This time it was a hungry kiss that made Liz weak in the knees. She loved the feel on his lips on hers. It was like no other feeling in the world. It felt so right and perfect.

"Liz?"

"Yeah?"

"I love you"

Part 10

He had said it. He knew that for most relationships it would be far too early to say it, but for him and Liz it was different. They had known each other forever. But now, Michael was worried. She had not said a word since he said those three words. His heart was clenched in his throat as he waited for her to speak. When two more minutes passed by without a word from her, Michael again spoke.

�Liz, I�m sorry. It�s too soon for that I-�

�No Michael it�s not too soon,� Liz finally said finding her voice. She had been wanting to say something back to him but couldn�t. �I�I love you too.� Liz smiled through her newly formed tears.

Michael let out a deep breath that he had been holding. He couldn�t erase the smile that came to his face. Liz loved him and he loved her. It was incredible. He never thought that he would have fallen for his best friend, but here he was.

Liz scooted closer to Michael on the couch. Michael reached down and brushed the hair away from her face. He leaned in and began to kiss her every where. He loved the thought of knowing that only he would be doing this now. Only his lips would travel over her body only his lips would taste her lips. Before he knew it, the were lying down on the couch kissing heavily. He loved every minute of it. He began to let his hand slip under her tank top, but soon was stopped by Liz�s hand.

�Michael, we need to take this slow,� Liz whispered looking into his eyes. Michael removed his hand from under her shirt and began to sit up. � Michael I really want you as much as you want me, but we really should take things slow. I mean�I don�t want to rush things with you. I we are going to have a relationship we need to do things right. Jumping right into bed with each other is not the first thing we should be doing.�

�Yeah, you�re right. I don�t want to mess things up Liz so if you thing we should wait we will wait. But that doesn�t mean I can�t kiss you,� Michael smiled as he again took her lips to his own.

Liz laughed then fell back into kissing him.

About an hour and thousands of kisses later, both Liz and Michael sat in each others arms. �You want to watch a movie?� Michael asked.

Liz nodded. �Of course isn�t that what we always do?�

�Yup, but this will be our first movie as a couple,� Michael smiled.

�Well, then we should definitely watch one,� Liz giggled.

�What shall it be?�

�Titanic!�

Michael frowned. �I don�t think that should be our first movie as a couple. You�ll just drool over Billy Zane and I�ll be left out in the cold,� Michael pouted.

�Never, I�ll always have room for the both of you.�

**END**

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