Part 7

January 24. I'm Liz Parker, and something really strange has been happening the last few weeks here in Roswell. For once, it has nothing to do with our Czechoslovakian friends.

I'm really scared. This seems more threatening to the town of Roswell than the thought of Aliens ever could. Two of our high school classmates are missing. They are like, totally gone. Not one sign of them anywhere.

Tomorrow morning, sheriff Valenti is going to start the massive search through the town and into the desert beyond, with dogs and volunteers. That thought alone is frightening. And the students of Roswell were told to go back to school tomorrow like it was any other Monday. Yeah right, like we could pretend nothing was going on right outside the walls of our school. How could we pretend nothing was wrong? Two of our classmates had just disappeared, and, with a wide spread search going on for them, all around us, they expected the rest of the student to like conjugate verbs!

Part of me just wants to stay home tomorrow and hide in my bed. To stay safe. But the other part of me wants to help, even if it's just being strong for my friends and classmates. I know Maria and Isabel are terrified too. For different reasons, and yet for the same ones as well. Isabel told the sheriff what she and Louisa had briefly talked about Friday night and the sheriff had actually been sorta okay about talking to Isabel, and had even made her feel a little less afraid of him.

And Max, Michael and Alex, like even all of the guys, seemed more protective of the girls lately. Like one of us could be next. It gives me the shivers. The guys really think that it's us females that are being targeted. Is that true? Is there really someone out there waiting for another female to slip up and then they too will just vanish?!

I wonder just what tomorrow will bring…

***************************

Fear… he could smell it all around him. He tried not to smile, since it would not be appropriate today. Everyone in school was solemn and quiet. He did not want to act any different, so he too kept his face straight. But inside…

Inside he was jumping up and down wanting to shout… I know where they are… and I can take the next one just as easily. It excited him, the looks of terror, the smell of fear, all around him.

He hid his smile inside his textbook as he pretended to read along with the class.

******************************

Liz entered her history class at the end of the day with a sigh of relief. The day was almost over. It had been unbearable for all of them. In biology, it had been so difficult with Pam and Louisa's chairs empty, right behind her and Max.

Everyone in the whole school was feeling the tension and fear. Fear that their classmates might never be found, or fear that they would be found. Everyone waited to hear a shout from outside if the two girls were found. They could hear dogs barking and people talking in the distance.

The students and faculty were all on edge and no one was really getting anything done in school. Liz figured it was just a safe place for all the students to be right now, so the parents wouldn't have to worry about them too.

She took her seat next to Isabel and in front of Max. On her other side was Michael, and ahead of him was Maria. Alex was on the other side of Isabel. This was the only class they all had together and they all exchanged looks of relief that they were all together finally, after the long day of tension and waiting.

Liz glanced over at Kyle and Vicky. They were sitting one behind the other, and were holding hands. She was glad to see they had found each other. She hadn't wanted to hurt Kyle. He had really been sweet and good to her when they had dated over the summer. But after connecting with Max, nothing else compared. She just hoped that Kyle found that kind of soul mate love someday. Who knows, maybe it was to be Vicky Delaney.

She glanced back at Max and saw his understanding smile. He too was happy that Kyle was not upset over him and Liz anymore. And he knew that Liz was relieved that Kyle was happy again too.

Liz leaned her arm back onto Max's desk, and he took his big strong hand and gently drew a caress down her arm and then took her hand. He could watch their joined hands forever. Her small, soft one enveloped in his larger, callused one.

He was so glad he had Liz. He had been so alone until he had saved Liz. And she in turn had saved him. He lifted her hand up to his lips and gently rubbed his lightly parted ones over her knuckles, just enjoying the feel and taste of Liz. Her baby powder and strawberry shampoo smell was there, combined with the smell that was just Liz.

He knew he should be thinking about their classmates, but he couldn't stop thinking about Liz and how it could have been her, the town was looking for. It made him just want to swallow her up in his arms and never let her go.

Liz turned to Max as he brushed his mouth gently across her knuckles. Their eyes met and there was a twinkle of love in Max's intense look.

Liz curved her hand around Max's strong cheekbone and mouthed that she loved him.

She saw and felt the curve of Max's smile at her words, and she turned back around to try to concentrate on what Mr. Browning was saying.

She noticed that Michael was leaning forward and caressing the back of Maria's neck lightly, while Maria had her hand behind her, under Michael's desk, and was holding Michael's thigh, caressing it every once in a while as well.

It seemed as if the horrible situation had brought out all the emotions between the couples more. Even Isabel and Alex were giving each other looks.

When the bell rang they all sighed as one class and got up slowly. They had waited for this moment all day, and yet now they were almost afraid to go outside and face the reality. What if the girls had been found? What if they hadn't?

The six of them walked out of the building together and stood around Max and Maria's cars.

"So, um should we go to the Crashdown?" Alex asked? Not sure what they should do. He did not want to leave Isabel yet. He did not want to spend the rest of the day at home, waiting and wondering what was happening, and if Isabel was okay.

Max and Michael seemed to feel the same way, because they all agreed to go hang out together at the Crashdown, to wait.

***********************************

That night, as she was getting ready for bed, Liz looked up at the stars. The moon was only a sliver in the sky, so the stars seemed extra bright. She sighed. There was still no word from the search parties. Finally, everyone had gone back to their homes to wait and try to sleep. Liz looked from the stars, back down and out into the desert stretched beyond. She could see flickers of lights in the desert, and knew it was the search parties' flashlights. She could hear the sound of dogs off in the distance as well. She wondered if she would get any sleep tonight. She thought about calling Maria, but she was hoping that if Maria had been lucky enough to fall asleep, she wouldn't want to wake her. Liz shivered, closed her window and locked it, padded across her floor and crawled into bed. She pulled the covers up over her head and tried to stop shaking.

******************************

Maria tossed and turned and looked at the clock. 1:30. She, too, could hear the dogs in the distance, and was too tense and terrified to sleep.

Maria finally sat up, and with a sigh, she flipped on her little bedside light and reached for one of her oils, to calm her down.

A noise at the window made her gasp, and she dropped the bottle. She grabbed the shovel that she had taken in the garage earlier, and had set by her bed. Her heart was pounding, and she thought whoever was out there must hear it as well.

Maria just wanted to scream, or reach for her phone to call someone, but couldn't move. She was frozen with fright.

Then, she heard and saw her window lift slowly. She held her breath. She had locked that window!!!

"Maria?" came a familiar voice as the window opened more.

Maria let out a long breath and dropped the shovel. She raced to the window to help Michael climb through, and then she was in his arms.

He held her trembling form tightly.

Then Maria pulled away suddenly and hit him on the shoulder and arms several times. Michael sighed.

"You scared me to death Michael! What the hell are you doing out there creeping around my window!

"I wasn't creeping. I was …worried. I had to make sure you were okay. I was only going to keep watch from outside, but then I saw your light come on. So I figured I'd see how you were." Michael admitted.

Maria smiled. Her bad boy was so cute when he was being nice and caring.

Maria took his hand and led him to her bed. Michael followed.

Maria climbed into her bed, and made room for Michael. When they were both snuggled together, Michael turned off the bedside light, and reached for and held Maria. She sighed against his chest, and he too was content.

This beat the floor in Max's room any day Michael thought as he held Maria tighter.

*********************************

Alex felt stupid sitting under a tree outside Isabel's bedroom window. He knew she had special powers and could probably protect herself, but it made him feel better knowing if she did need him, he would be there for her.

******************************

Max sat on one of Liz's lounge chairs outside her window and looked up at the stars. He hadn't been able to sleep at home, and knew that only making sure Liz was okay would make him feel better. It wasn't too cold out considering it was the middle of winter. And Max didn't feel the cold the same way the humans did.

He heard the window slide up and glanced over. Liz climbed out of the window and shuffled over to him, wrapped in a blanket. He guessed she had sensed his presence the way he had known hers.

As Liz came closer, Max held open his arms and Liz crawled up onto the chair and wrapped the blanket around them both.

Without words, Liz lifted her face to Max's and he gently placed his lips on hers and just rubbed against them. They kissed lightly, just for the contact, and then Liz sighed and snuggled into Max's neck, hugging him tighter.

Max sighed too, content with Liz safe in his arms, and kissed her forehead, then leaned his head against hers. Now he could sleep.

**********************

The shadow across the street from the Crashdown Cafe drifted off into the night, realizing he would have to wait for another time. But it would come, he knew.

Part 8

February 9th. I'm Liz Parker, and sometimes what scares people the most is the "not knowing." It's been almost three weeks since our two classmates disappeared. They have vanished. Even with all the different law enforcement agencies, hundred's of volunteers, and the dogs, not a trace of them has turned up.

The volunteers are gone, and so are the dogs. Only a few state police and Sheriff Valenti have not given up completely. I feel so bad for Pam and Louisa's parents. They don't know where the girls are or if they will ever see them again. What did happen to them? Is it like the FBI was saying, that they probably ran away? Since there has been no proof of foul play, many were starting to believe they'd just ran away. But I know Sheriff Valenti doesn't believe that, and I know that The Troy's and Marquez's don't believe it either. And neither does Kyle. Kyle knew both girls pretty well, for the girls had been close friends of his and his group of football players. Louisa was even the girlfriend of one of Kyle's best friends. He knew them both, and said there was no way that Louisa would have run away, even for Pam. And I believe him.

But, because there has not been another disappearance in the past three weeks, many people are shrugging it off, starting to believe that they'd just ran away. Many have gone back to their normal every day routines, and are not being as careful like they used to be. But there were many who still believe that something bad happened to the two girls.

So I sit and wonder, like a lot of people in Roswell, if there will be another disappearance, and if so, who will be next?

******************

"I don't know Maria." Liz said hesitantly, as she picked up another order of food from the shelf between the kitchen and outer area.

Maria sighed and stood in front of Liz, hands on her hips, not letting her pass until she had convinced her.

"Okay, look, I'm not saying that Pam and Louisa didn't meet with foul play, but we do have to get on with our lives! I mean, staying around here just waiting for who knows what, is not going to help! A lot of kids are talking about the winter break in Mexico. Mexico, Liz! I've never even been out of New Mexico before, except for the time I was abducted by space boy," she rolled her eyes but smiled remembering how that turned out. "My Mom says since I've been saving my own money, that I can go. Please Liz! We need some fun. We all need to get away!" Maria pleaded.

Liz looked at her best friend and smiled. Maria was right. They, the six of them, needed to get away. Since the shooting at the Crashdown last September, none of their lives had been normal or just fun, without worry or fear being always just one step behind them.

"You've talked with the others? They want to go?" Liz asked.

"Yes! Even Max said it sounded good. Liz, we can all use the time away from here. Can you imagine being with Max and Michael away from here, where they won't constantly be worrying about being caught. How much fun we could all have away from Roswell for a while." Maria explained as she followed Liz across the room to one of the booths.

Liz served her customers, then walked back toward the counter with Maria right behind her, waiting.

Max and her away from Roswell. On a sunny warm beach in Mexico? All six of them with no worries or cares for a whole five days! She smiled imagining Max in just a pair of swim trunks, all tan and gorgeous and hers for five days!

"All right. What do we have to do?" Liz asked.

Maria squealed and ran behind the counter, and dug out some brochures and flyers.

"A whole bunch of kids from school are planning on going. The more people who go, the less the package rate." Maria exclaimed excitedly and spread the papers out on the counter in between them. "But we have to hurry. Vicky Delanie is the one organizing this for us, and she needs to get a full head count of people going, but tomorrow!"

"But Winter break is next week!" Liz frowned.

"Yes, it is." Maria said calmly.

"Next week? Maria how can we get a good price on this if we're just booking now!"

"Vicky had started setting this up in December. She just told the travel agent that it would be a big group and they would get the final numbers in the week before. She put down like a group of 20, but a lot of kids have backed out." Maria explained. She didn't need to state why. Liz nodded in understanding, then started to catch the fever of it.

"Next week! Wow ... it's going to take Isabel that long to pack!" Liz laughed.

Maria laughed and hugged Liz. She was finally going to get out of Roswell, even if it was just for a little while.

***********************

When the plane landed in Puerto Vuerta, Maria turned to Michael with a smile. They were both out of Roswell, finally. Even if it was just for a little while. Michael met Maria's eyes and smiled, then took her hand and squeezed it in silent understanding as they taxied to the gate.

The large group of students moved through the airport with little trouble, collecting their bags, going through customs, and out to waiting taxi's with ease. Even Isabel had to admit that Vicky had done a great job planning this with the travel agent.

As the group checked in and split up to go to their rooms, Vicky turned to Liz and handed her two room keys. "Here Liz. I made sure you six had adjoining rooms. So you could be next to the guys." Vicky smiled.

Liz returned the smile and thanks and realized that for Vicky it worked well too, as she could keep Max close to Liz and Kyle far away. Vicky had been keeping her and Kyle at opposite ends from Liz, and making sure Max was always paired up or seated next to Liz. She was just grateful that she got to be with Max. She wanted to reassure Vicky that she was not the least bit interested in getting back with Kyle, but figured Vicky would have to learn to trust Kyle on her own.

Alex, Michael and Max carried their own bags up the elevator, while a hotel helper brought up Isabel's 5 suitcases, and Liz and Maria's one each.

Liz handed Max one key and kept the other, and they led the way down the hall. When they found the right doors, and inserted the keys, the doors opened to beautiful airy rooms, with huge sliding glass doors that led to a balcony, and beyond was white sand and blue water.

Maria sucked in her breath and slowly walked toward the sliding glass doors, in awe. The ocean. It pulled her.

Isabel tipped the hotel helper then closed the door behind him.

Liz followed Maria out onto the balcony and side by side they just leaned on the railing and stared out at the beautiful view before them.

Isabel joined them and the three exchanged looks. "Well girls, are we going to have fun here or what?" Isabel smiled.

Maria and Liz nodded, also smiling crazily. The three felt high, they were so excited and happy.

They heard the sliding door to their left open and realized that they shared the same balcony with the guys as the three joined them.

"Ladies. I'd say we've all come up in the world." Alex grinned and stood next to Isabel to just look out at the sparkling water.

Isabel smiled back at Alex, and clasped his hand as he came up beside her. Isabel wanted to tell Alex that she knew he had stayed outside her window those many nights a while back, but she wasn't sure if she would embarrass him or not. And what would she say. Isabel Evans couldn't say he was her knight-in-shining-armor. That would not be something Isabel would say. Oh, but she wanted to, She thought as her eyes smiled back into Alex's surprised ones, and watched them go from surprise to contentment, as he gripped her hand tighter and held her eyes.

Liz noticed how much more relaxed they all looked, but especially Max, Isabel and Michael. She hadn't realized how tense they must have always been, until she saw the difference in them now.

Liz smiled at Max and his eyes went to half mass as he approached her. The twinkle of happiness mixed with love and passion in his eyes made Liz's breath catch as he approached.

But Max just gave her a little grin, as if he knew she was feeling it too, and he put his arms around her and stood behind her, his head leaning on hers, as they silently just view of the ocean stretched out below.

Michael had his arms around Maria in the same way, and the six of them just stood in silent companionship, enjoying their new surroundings.

***********************

Later that night, as the students gathered for a bonfire party on the beach, one person leaning against the rocks sat back with a crooked smile on his face. He pretended he too was having fun, and was like all the others. But on the inside he was gloating. *Stupid fools*. He thought. They thought they were safe here. That nothing could ruin their perfect little lives. No one noticed the extra bright look in his eyes as he watched and waited. Waited for the perfect moment to make his move.

Part 9

Liz sat leaning back against Max's warm body, snuggled between his legs, on a blanket, just watching the bonfire. Max was leaning against a rock, and enjoying the feel of Liz so close to him. In his arms, where it felt so right.

He looked over and noticed that Michael and Maria were also cuddled up on a blanket together watching the fire. They were lying side by side, holding hands while Maria leaned on Michael's chest, and he played with her hair, gently twisting a soft strand around his finger.

Then Max smiled brighter as he saw Isabel and Alex. There wasn't anyone better for Isabel. He was glad that Alex was the one to have gotten through his sister's tough outer layer, and found the softness inside.

Isabel was leaning her head on Alex's shoulder and they too were on a blanket holding hands. Isabel was smiling, and looked at peace.

Both Michael and Isabel looked perfectly content. Max had never seen Isabel or Michael look so completely relaxed and open before. He wondered if he looked the same way, and guessed he did. He couldn't imagine being any more content. He closed his eyes and smiled, just enjoying the moment.

Who would have thought that the three of them would find happiness, contentment and yes, love, with these three earthlings? Max knew he would feel this way if he ever let himself be with Liz, but to see Isabel and Michael also so happy only made Max even more at peace.

A gasp from both Liz and Maria made Max open his eyes with a questioning look at Liz. Then he heard the song and smiled. One of Liz's favorites was playing. Ginny Owens's song, "If You Want Me To" had just started.

Max pushed up against the rock, stood up and held out his hand to Liz. He smiled softly at her when she beamed up at him with happiness.

As Max took Liz into his arms and slowly led her in a small circle to the song, he saw Maria pull Michael up, and Isabel pull Alex up. He chucked wondering if the guys were going to kill him later for starting this. Then he saw the expressions on both Michael and Alex's face as they held the girls, and he knew they wouldn't say anything.

Smiling, Max concentrated on the small bundle of warmth and love in his arms and looked down into her eyes.

"Hi." She smiled.

Max gave a half smile that was so Max. "Hi yourself."

Liz snuggled closer to him and just enjoyed leaning against his warm, bare chest and watching the flickering of the firelight play across his muscles as he turned with her in the slow dance.

She sighed. They hadn't done anything since that night of the pool party in the hot tub. With all the events that had followed that night, neither had felt it would be right, and Liz knew Max had also been so tired from worrying about her, and watching over her at night.

But here they were free for a few days. Free to enjoy just being together without the worry of the sheriff, or the FBI, or whatever had happened to their classmates. Just for a little while Liz wanted to forget all that and just enjoy being with Max.

As they glided to the music, Liz slowly started to realize that there was an ever-growing bulge pressing against her tummy. She drew in a breath and looked up into Max's eyes.

His eyes were burning intently into hers, and there was a knowing smile on his face, as he watched Liz become aware of what he had been feeling for the last half hour.

He too was remembering their spontaneous passion in the hot tub that night that now seemed so long ago.

Liz swallowed as she continued to feel Max rub against her stomach. She felt warm all over and her own body's response startled her.

Max felt Liz's nipples harden through her red bikini top, against his chest, and sucked in his breath. He wondered how cold the temperature was in the ocean. Maybe they could make out in the water. Max looked around desperately, suddenly wanting to be alone with Liz, to kiss her, to touch her.

Finally Max stopped dancing and took Liz's hand. "Come on." He said quietly as he led them away from the party.

"Was it something we said?" called Michael's amused voice as they walked away.

Maria smiled and hit his arm playfully. Then she suddenly shuddered.

Michael frowned down at her. "Cold?" he asked. The fire was warm, and so was the balmy night air. And with Maria this close, he couldn't have been any hotter.

"No…not really. I just… I don't know it felt as if someone was watching me or something, forget it." Maria shrugged.

"Maybe someone is watching you… you look awfully cute in that little bikini." Michael lowered his voice and teased her.

Maria laughed and forgot about the uncomfortable feeling she had had a few minutes ago.

Alex and Isabel were in their own world. They swayed to the soft music, just enjoying being together, and not having to worry about anything else.

********************

Max led Liz to a quiet secluded spot up the beach from the bonfire. They could still see the fire roaring in the distance, but here in the shadows no one could see them.

Liz's heart was pounding loudly in her ears as she watched Max set up the blanket he had grabbed at the last minute. Then she watched as he straightened up and just looked at her. Liz felt her legs turn to Jell-O.

He was so sexy! Her Max. He was standing there in just his swim trunks, the moonlight caressing his strong, well-built body. And his eyes…as usual, they pulled her in.

When Max held out his hand, Liz reached for it and he drew her down onto the blanket with him.

Liz sighed as Max leaned on an elbow and pulled her closer against him while his other hand caressed the sensitive skin of her back.

Liz again felt the hard throbbing against her stomach and couldn't help but move closer to it.

"Max…" she sighed and looked up into his eyes, waiting.

Max gave her his cute half smile. Liz loved that look, even his eyes smiled. It was a look he reserved only for her.

Without a word Max took his hand from Liz's back, and gently slid his hand into her soft silky hair and cupped her cheek. Then he lowered his eyes to her lips.

Liz sucked in a deep breath, her lips tingling from his heated gaze. She watched as Max's soulful eyes went to half-mast as he slowly came closer to her lips with his own.

She felt his breath on her lips right before he opened his mouth over hers in a sweet, but intense kiss.

She remembered the first kiss a few months ago, the sweet gently probing and tasting of each other. Then she remembered the loss of control kiss in the eraser room the next day, and the passionate kiss in the hot tub. Each kiss with Max was different, yet equally as stimulating, as exciting, and as new as the first one.

Liz sighed into his mouth as he opened his wider over hers, as if he couldn't get enough of her. When she felt his tongue slip between her teeth and search out her own she moaned and grabbed his shoulders, then slid her hands around his neck and just held on. Just a kiss from Max Evans, and Liz's head spun. She tentatively touched her tongue to his and tasted him. Max!

Max's whole body was burning. He had Liz all wrapped around him, kissing him back with all the passion he could feel from her, and they were barely wearing anything. Max didn't know if he could hold out. Maybe he shouldn't have brought her so far from everyone else. He had to stop this…

Then Liz's hand wandered around to his chest and started caressing his muscles and he knew she was trying to memorize every muscle and ridge she caressed on his chest. Max groaned and kissed her deeper. Just another minute and he would stop them, just one more kiss.

Liz ached. The hard hot heat pressing against her stomach made her all achy and needy. Liz remembered the way they had pleased and touched each other in the hot tub, and slid her hand down his hard stomach muscles, felt them contract, and then she slowly slid her hand beneath his swim trunks. She was giving him time to stop her.

He knew he should stop her, but he couldn't. He had been in love with her since he first laid eyes on her, and here with her, all hot and soft in his arms, and reaching for him, Max lost what little control he had left.

His own hands reached for the clip on her bikini top and he released it with a pop. Max leaned away a little to watch as he pulled her top slowly down her body, the top hesitating a moment as it caught on her pouting hard nipples, then it finally released her, and her tight nipples sprung free and proud.

Max groaned and gently slid a hand up her trim tummy, and then cupped her softness. She felt so good!

Max was so intent on Liz that he jumped when he felt her hand slide below his trunks, and touch his hard heat.

"Max?" Liz hesitated. Had she hurt him?

Max knew her thoughts and took her mouth again. "It feels good Liz… your hands on me." He admitted hoarsely.

"Yes, Max, like your hands on me. Max, touch me please…" Liz pleaded, her lower body starting to move against his leg, looking for the friction to ease the ache between her legs.

Max sucked in a deep breath and then closed his mouth over her waiting, pouting nipple. "Like that?" He asked, raising his head only slightly from her nipple, his breath hot as it came out against her breast.

"Mmmmm yes! More! Max… please. I need…"

"You need what Liz? What? Tell me and it's yours." Max promised, touching the tip of his tongue to the tip of one nipple. He loved the taste of her… He would do anything for Liz.

"I don't know Max…I need… you." Liz sobbed as he continued to suckle on her nipple, and then turn his attention greedily to the other one.

Liz had left her hand still on his hard flesh, when he had taken her nipple, but now she knew he had a need to be caressed like she did. She could feel the throbbing ache from him as if it was her own.

Liz slowly ran her hand up his rigid flesh, memorizing every inch. Max. This was her Max. She loved him more than life itself. She was his soul mate and he was hers. They were so intertwined emotionally; that they could feel each other's needs when they touched. Just a simple look or touch and no words were needed. They communicated on a different plane.

"Max…" Liz moaned and rubbed harder against his muscular thigh.

Immediately Max slid a hand down and under her bikini bottom, to cup her heat. He moaned when he felt her excitement. She was so wet for him.

Max lost a little of his own control, and heard Liz gasp as she felt the silky liquid drop that rained on her hand.

"Liz…God, Liz." Max swallowed and started to rub her swollen little nub that was brushing against the back of his hand teasingly. Max didn't know how he knew what to do, he just knew and felt where Liz ached, and he sought to ease it.

And Liz seemed to know the needs of his body as well. For she started a rhythm over his throbbing flesh that had just the right amount of friction, and then she gave an extra little squeeze when she reached the liquid silky top. Max groaned again at the total pleasure Liz's hands were giving him.

Max felt Liz's body tighten and he knew what she needed. He gently, slowly eased a finger into her moist folds and slid it up into her heat.

Liz gasped and leaning against his chest, her small little teeth took a nip at him. Max growled at the passion, and felt Liz's own liquid passion rain on his hand. God Liz. His Liz! So soft and hot and wet, and his!

Liz felt Max start a rhythm inside her, and knew what he planned. But she wanted more. She wanted him inside her. The part of him that she was caressing, loving with her hands.

Liz pushed his trunks down his legs and freed Max's hard flesh completely, feeling it expand in her hand. She was fascinated! But she wanted more. She wanted him. All of him.

Max rolled on top of her as Liz rolled onto her back. Her sweet hand had set a rhythm that was driving him to the brink. And he wanted her there with him.

He sat up a little and when his finger slid out of her Liz felt the loss. Max felt it too, and leaned down to kiss her deeply, then he sat up again, and hooking his fingers on either side of her bikini bottom, he slid it down her legs and off of her in one movement.

"Yes!" Liz whispered as her body followed his hand, and arched up to him.

Max was stunned. Liz was beautiful and stretched out naked on the beach, with the moon washing over her, giving him a spectacular view.

He was mesmerized and drawn to the beautiful soft brown hair between her legs, and the little pink nub that poked out between her lips. He had touched it with his hands, but now he could see her. And she took his breath away. Max shuddered with need and felt his whole body turn to liquid inside. He didn't know if he could hold out much longer, but he wanted to please Liz.

But there was something he had only dreamed of doing that was driving him crazy with want.

Max met Liz's own burning gaze with an unspoken question, and Liz nodded and arched higher. Her aching burning flesh needed his touch. All of his touch. She knew what he wanted, and she wanted it too.

"Max…please." Liz whispered between gasps.

Then Max did what he had only dreamed of doing, but knew he would have to do, the minute he had seen her naked flesh. He bent his head down and tasted Liz.

His own groan matched hers. He was enjoying this as much as Liz was. At the first touch of Max's tongue, Liz cried out and arched up higher.

Max felt drunk. The taste and feel of Liz was intoxicating, and he couldn't get enough. And he felt what it did to Liz, and he knew he could do this, taste her, all night.

Max let his hands roam back up her trim tummy, to her beautiful nipples, and he gently took one in each hand. He squeezed lightly and heard Liz cry out, and then tasted her passion as it answered his caress.

Max thought he couldn't love Liz anymore than he did. But he was wrong. The strong feelings of love mixed with passion overwhelmed him. He was surrounded by the taste, feel and smell of Liz, and he couldn't get enough of her. She was like a drug to his system. She always had been.

Liz couldn't take it. She needed it all. She needed Max inside her, making her whole. Making her full and complete.

Liz pulled Max's head from between her legs and Max answered her immediately by traveling his tongue up her body and then he took her mouth.

Liz felt a strange taste and knew it was a combination of Max and her. She was flying on sensations and emotions and everything was heightened.

Max took her mouth in a deep kiss. Giving her all of his passion and love in that kiss. He took his tongue to the farthest reaches of her throat, and caressed her mouth completely, not leaving an inch of it un-tasted

Liz's hands reached for the head that was now insistently throbbing against her thigh, and she gently took him in her hand again, and then led him to her.

Max froze when he felt his hard hot flesh, come in contact with Liz's moist heat. God, what were they doing?! Max started to clear his head, his love for Liz and protecting her foremost in his mind.

Liz felt him start to pull away, and she whimpered. "Max… no… please. I need you!"

"Liz! God Liz." Max said and put his forehead to hers, and just stayed frozen where he was. The tip of him just touching her moist folds. "We can't, love." He groaned. It killed him to stop. He shouldn't have brought her out here. Knowing that their special connection gave them no control.

"Max…I'm on the pill. I've been on the pill for a year. I have an irregular cycle." She explained. Knowing his biggest concern.

Max sucked in his breath. God he didn't want to hear that. The last of his willpower fell away. He was too inexperienced, too in love, and too far-gone, to not give them both what they needed more than anything right then.

Slowly Max gave up the fight and did what his body was screaming at him to do. He slowly slid forward, parting her soft folds, with the blunt tip of his arousal. He felt her part for him, felt her open for him. And he died a little at each new sensation, at each caress he felt, as he slid into Liz's hot, wet, welcoming body, inch by inch.

When he finally was at the barrier they both felt, he stopped. His eyes told her he couldn't hurt her. No matter what it did to him, he would stop.

But Liz too was beyond control. She just wanted Max. All of her logic disappeared when she was with Max. When they connected.

She knew he wouldn't do it, so she did it for him. She pushed up, as she pulled him down, and he slid past the last tiny barrier.

Then he froze, knowing and feeling Liz's pain. Max knew she was okay, but wanted to give her time to adjust. He wanted her with him when he went over the edge. And he didn't think it would take long. Oh God! He was inside Liz! His Liz!

Liz caressed his chest and neck and face as he waited. Her eyes never left his, and she could feel what he was feeling, their connection so intense. Max leaned down and kissed a trail of light kisses up her chest, and buried his face in her neck for a minute, breathe in the scents of Liz, and then with his mouth open, he dragged it up her neck, over her jaw and cheek bone, and to her own, waiting, trembling mouth.

Max took her mouth as he did her body, deeply and lovingly. He caressed every inch of her mouth, and ran his tongue around her parted lips, and then tickled the very corners of her mouth with his tongue. He felt Liz smile and he smiled. Then he again covered her mouth completely and started deep lazy strokes into her mouth with his tongue.

Liz moved first. She followed the rhythm that Max tongue had taken, and started to move her hips.

The feel of Max full and hard in here was wonderful, but the movement caused an electric jolt of friction through their whole bodies. Both of them looked at the other with surprise, then realizing that both of them were learning as they were going, they laughed lightly, and Liz cupped Max's face.

"Oh Max, you are inside me. My Max!" She whispered in awe. Her eyes were bright and shining and filled with tears of overwhelming emotions. Max could feel that these were not tears of pain or sorry, but of a pleasure that they both felt. He almost wished he too could cry, the feelings were so intense.

"I love you Liz, I always have." He whispered hoarsely, and then started to move with her.

As the pleasure built, and Max's throbbing heat swelled even more, Liz cried out as she felt the first ripples of pleasure with Max. His head had touched a spot deep inside her, and that soft stroking friction did her in. She arched up driving him deeper into her, and then she cried his name as her small hands grabbed his shoulders, and her nails dug into his skin.

Max did not feel any of this. All he could feel was Liz. Where he was filling her. He felt her arch up and this drove him even deeper into her. He felt that spot in her that he touched with the tip of his own hard flesh, and then he too tumbled over the edge. He threw back his head and cried out himself, as he felt himself give up everything to the sweet girl in his arms.

Then he was kissing her again. Kissing her with love and gentle caresses. Letting her know how special she was to him.

Liz sighed and met his kisses. Her slender arms encircled his strong neck, and her fingers gently caressed his strong muscular back.

Then Max slowly eased out of Liz's arms and body. He could feel her body clinging to him as each inch of him left her. He gritted his teeth to keep from pushing back in. He was hard again, and he was amazed, but then this was Liz. He reminded himself ruefully. But Liz was sore, and they had to get back. How long had they been gone? How had he let this happen?

Liz saw the little frown start between Max's eyes and she lifted her hand and eased the tiny worry line between his brow.

"Max. I love you. You are the only one for me. Please don't have misgivings now. I couldn't stand it." She whispered.

"No, Liz, not misgivings. I'm not sorry that I loved you. I just feel like I should have been more responsible. Liz, we don't know that this can work. The two of us are so different." He started to explain, not sure himself what he was trying to say.

Liz smiled. "I don't know. I think it worked very well myself." She teased.

Max grinned at her and then kissed her hand that had once again cupped his face.

He knew what she was trying to tell him. That it was too late to worry. And maybe she was right. They were meant.

Max knew that over the last few months, his feelings for her had intensified. The danger all around them in Roswell, and the thought that it could be Liz that had disappeared, was never far from Max's mind. The fact that he might never have seen again, had only made him need her more. And he knew she had felt the same way.

They had bonded even more, all those nights that Max had slept on the chair outside Liz's window, with her wrapped in his arms. He sighed, knowing this had been inevitable. And no, he wasn't sorry. He could never be sorry for loving Liz. Giving her what they both needed so much. They had bonded in every way up until now, and this had just been inevitable for the final part of their bonding.

Max knew what Liz was feeling, for he felt it too. The loss of connection. He gently helped her put her suit back on, and then let her slip his shorts back up his legs. These little personal things they did for each other after their intense loving, was needed as much as the loving had been.

***************

The shadow crept away, his fury building. How dare Max make love to Liz Parker! And here he had thought that maybe, just maybe Liz had been pure enough for him. Good enough for him. For he had believed that her heart had been good and pure, and that maybe he had finally found a girl that he would keep. Instead of angrily tossing them away in disappointment when they betrayed him.

Max Evans had everything. He hated Max. He had always hated Max. And now, it was going to be Max's turn to pay.

But not tonight… tonight they were safe from his plans. He would not betray himself yet. Not let the people of Roswell realize how closely among them their hell was. For if he did take someone from Roswell here, they would know it was someone on this trip. And he was not about to get caught. He had gone years out witting them. He would not ruin it now in a moment of anger. All the plans he had been making over the years.

But he needed to vent his anger somewhere. He turned toward the quiet end of the boardwalk ahead, looking for just the right prey. Someone local, so as not to be connected with Roswell.

Part 10

Max didn’t know what time it was when he and Liz got to the long wooden stairs leading from the beach to the hotel, but he guessed it was late. There were only a few stray people around, on the beach and on the street above, that Max could see. He motioned for Liz to go ahead of him up the stairs, but when she raised a foot to put it on the first steep step, Max saw her wince.

"Liz?" he asked, touching her arm and turning her around gently.

Liz smiled brightly and lightly caressed his strong muscular arm. " I’m okay Max. Just a little sore." She blushed and looked down.

Max sucked in his breath. He had hurt Liz! He didn’t like knowing that Liz had to be in pain because of him.

Liz saw the regret flash through Max’s eyes and then he pulled her close to him, looked down into her face, and slid a hand between her legs.

Liz gasped from Max’s touch. It would always be electric. She melted against him for a minute and then realized what he was trying to do.

"Max! Not here. We could be seen!" Max had wanted to heal her! Liz’s heart swelled even more for the gentle soul Max possessed.

Max pulled back realizing where they were and sighed. Then shook his head to clear it.

"You’re right. Sorry. I wasn’t thinking of anything but…"

"My comfort." Liz finished gently and cupped Max’s face with her hand.

"I love you Max. And I’m fine. This is a normal thing for a woman to go through. It won’t last long. And besides, I like the reminder." Liz smiled up into his eyes.

"It reminds me of WHY it’s a bit uncomfortable." She whispered.

Now Max blushed, and grinned. He still didn’t like the idea of her hurting though. For any reason! Making a decision, he lifted her up in his arms and cradled her against him.

"Max!" Liz exclaimed and met his smiling eyes.

"You gonna argue about this too Liz Parker?" He asked with a teasing glint.

Liz shook her head and laughed. Max was holding her, with no effort what so ever, to him, and she could feel his muscles ripple all around her. She was warm and safe in Max’s arms. If it made him happy to do this for her, she wasn’t going to say no to such a chivalrous, romantic act.

She snuggled her face into Max’s chest and let him carry her up the steep stairs. She just smiled as she inhaled the scents of Max’s warm body and felt the play of each muscle as he moved, and the ease with which he carried her.

Max put Liz down as the reached the front of the hotel, and took her hand as they walked across the quiet lobby, and to the deserted elevators.

Max unlocked the door to his room quietly, knowing the two rooms the gang shared, were open to each other. The three girls had the adjoining room, and they had all silently agreed to leave the door open between the two rooms.

They heard the TV and saw the glow from the other room as they entered through the door in the boys’ room.

They walked to the entrance between the doors and looked in.

The two double beds in the girls’ room were occupied. Isabel and Alex were cuddled up on one bed, and Michael and Maria were on the other. All four looked like they had fallen asleep watching TV together.

Max smiled even wider and headed back into the adjoining room, leaving the door open still between the rooms. He just wanted to hold Liz the rest of the night himself.

Liz grabbed her bag she still hadn’t completely unpacked, and followed Max into the other room.

Liz went into the bathroom, showered off the sand, smiling and blushing at the crazy places she found it. Then with a towel wrapped around her, she came out of the bathroom, grabbed her t-shirt and shorts that she slept in, and her toothbrush.

Max gave her a hot look as she came back into the room. He was leaning back on one of the beds in the guys’ room, flipping channels, waiting for his turn in the bathroom. He hadn’t expected to see Liz come out in just a towel, but then, he had seen her in less, just an hour ago.

He knew if he had gone to her then, to kiss her soft smelling clean skin like he wanted to, they’d end up doing more than sleeping in his bed. So he stayed where he was, and his eyes followed Liz as she walked back into the bathroom leaving the door open, to let the steam out so it would clear the mirrors.

Liz brushed her teeth, washed her face and then looked up. She could see Max standing in the doorway of the open bathroom just watching in fascination.

Liz looked in the mirror to see if she had something on her face, then back at Max. "What?" she asked.

Max grinned and blushed at having been caught watching Liz do her nightly routine. But it just amazed him to watch her do the little intimate things like getting ready for bed.

Liz realized this without Max having to say anything. She too realized that they were seeing sides of each other than most couples didn’t see for many years. She smiled and moved aside for him to come in.

Max reached for his toothbrush and then paused as he met her gaze in the mirror.

Liz raised an eyebrow. "I’m not leaving either." She smiled.

Max grinned and nodded. He didn’t mind. He liked having Liz close.

He watched Liz reach for some kind of cream and she smoothed it onto her face as he brushed his teeth.

He enjoyed watching Liz smooth on lotion all over her, and swallowed when she lifted a leg onto the closed toilet seat, and ran the lotion up her leg.

Liz was sneaking glances at Max as he brushed his teeth, as well. She couldn’t help but find it sexy to watch him just leaning over the sink and spitting toothpaste into it. She knew she was loosing it big time!

When she looked over again, Max just had the toothbrush sticking out of his mouth, forgotten, as his eyes followed the path her hands were taking up her leg.

Liz put her leg down and blushed. She didn’t know why she felt shy, considering what they had done on the beach, but this just seemed more private, this intimate routine of getting ready for bed.

Max saw her blush, and shook his head and concentrated on finishing brushing his teeth. It had never taken him so long before. He grinned as he reminded himself, he had never had Liz smoothing lotion all over herself two feet from him in nothing but a towel before either.

Liz walked around Max and gave him a smile, knowing that the two of them were really enjoying this simple time together.

Liz left the room as Max turned on the shower. He had given her a look like he wanted to ask her to join him, but then he hadn’t. She knew without him saying it, that he was worried about her being sore, and the others right on the other side of the open door. She smiled as she took off the towel and slipped into her sleep clothes. She pulled the covers down on the bed Max had been sitting on, and slide between the sheets, and just relaxed, listening to the sound of the shower, and imagined Max in the shower washing that sexy body of his. She sighed and started to get up. So what if everyone was only right next-door.

But as she threw her leg over the bed, she winced. Okay. So maybe she was a little too sore, she smiled ruefully at herself and got back under the covers and sighed.

A minute later, Max came out of the bathroom, surrounded by steam, and in nothing but a towel, himself.

Liz couldn’t help but follow him with her eyes, as he crossed the room and reached for his boxers to sleep in.

Max started to go back into the bathroom, but saw the disappointment in Liz’s eyes, and realized there wasn’t anything she hadn’t seen. He grinned, and dropped the towel.

Liz’s eyes wandered over him in total approval and when she finally reached his eyes, she saw the returned passion in Max’s own eyes.

"Max…" Liz whispered.

Max slid his boxers on and came over to Liz. He sat on the bed and cupped her face in his hand.

"I love you Liz, but I’m just going to hold you the rest of the night." He told her, and himself.

Liz sighed but nodded. He was right. The others were right next-door, and she was sore. Besides, just being in Max’s arms the rest of the night was enough for her. She smiled and moved over, making room for Max.

He snapped off the light by the bed, and lifting the covers, he slid in with her. The light from the TV in the other room let him see enough of Liz to see she was on her side facing him. He reached for her and she sighed again in contentment, and snuggled to get closer to him and lean her head on his chest. She winced again and smiled. At least she had a reminder of the fact that Max had been a part of her.

Then she felt Max’s hand sliding down between them, until he found the center of her. Liz gave him access, and looked up into his eyes. She knew he would not sleep until he knew she was not hurting. She met his eyes; hers filled with love, and let him do the healing he had to do.

She missed his hand, when he removed it from between her legs, and pulled her closer, wrapping both his arms around her.

But then the comfort of Max’s heat and arms around her made her sleepy and she fell asleep smiling at how right it felt just being in Max Evans’ arms.

*************************

He stood outside their hotel door with his fists clenched at his sides. He had followed them up here, and it had taken every ounce of control he had, not to make them pay now. But as soon as they were back in Roswell… he would make his move. He would finally get rid of Max Evans, and now he would make Liz pay too, for her wicked ways

Part 11

As the girls were getting ready in their room later that morning, and the guys were getting ready in theirs, the six of them bantered back and forth, trying to decide which tour of the area they wanted to take. Vicky had listed the activities that were available, and they had all agreed they wanted to see more of the place. Maria and Isabel waited until the guys were done in their room, and had gone down to sign them up and wait for them in the lobby, then the two girls looked at each other and cornered Liz in the bathroom.

"Well? What time did you get in last night?" Maria smiled.

Isabel looked closer at Liz and her eyes narrowed. Liz had the same look on her face that Max had had that morning. A kind of secret smile in their eyes, and a kind of glow they couldn’t hide. Her eyes widened as she realized what she was thinking.

"It wasn’t that late." Liz said and tried not to meet their eyes in the mirror as she put on her makeup.

"Oh my God!" Isabel said when she met Liz’s eyes for a second, before Liz looked down. Isabel grabbed Liz’s arm and dragged her back into the other room and sat her on the bed.

Maria was starting to get an idea of what Isabel was thinking and she too waited to see what Liz had to say.

"Liz, did you and my brother actually make love last night?!" Isabel just came out and asked.

Liz couldn’t tell if Isabel was angry or what, but she couldn’t lie. She didn’t want to lie. She was the happiest she had ever been, and wanted to share it with the people she cared about. And that now was starting to include Isabel as well.

"We didn’t exactly plan on it, but…yeah. We did." Liz smiled, and a sparkle in her eyes had the other two envious.

"Liz! NO WAY! Like… what was it like!? Did it work? I mean, you know since Max is…"

Isabel interrupted Maria, since they all knew what she was going to say, and then sat down next to Liz who was quiet and not sure how her friends were going to take all this. Isabel looked into Liz’s eyes with concern. "Are you okay? Did anything… you know, strange happen?"

Liz realized that Isabel was just concerned for her, and also wanting to know if the alien/human bonding could work. Liz never realized how much of a strain it must be on the three, to not know if it was possible to live any kind of a normal life with or among the humans.

Liz smiled and nodded. "Oh yeah, totally! You don’t have to worry Isabel. I feel fine. I mean great! Nothing, you know, weird happened, at least nothing other than what we know is supposed to happen." She teased.

Then Isabel and Maria burst out laughing and the three starting girl talking about sex and boys in general.

"Oh my… so it really IS possible." Isabel said again.

"Isabel? You and Alex looked really cozy last night." Liz smiled, wondering if it had crossed Isabel’s mind that her and Alex could work.

"Huh? Oh… yeah, well, he’s great." Isabel smiled and blushed.

Maria almost choked when she saw Isabel blush. Now there was something you didn’t see every day.

"Not that Alex or I are a thing or anything, we’re just good friends." Isabel stated firmly, and stood up and reached for her purse.

"Well, I wonder what Michael will think? I know he’s thought about it." Maria smiled as she met the eyes of her friends.

"Do you think Max told him?" Maria asked.

Isabel shook her head. "No way!" and she laughed. "Mr. Reserved and to himself, Max!"

Liz smiled and laughed at Isabel’s accurate description of Max. However, Liz had seen the other side of Max. The open, playful, unreserved side. She liked knowing that she was able to see that side of Max, that he felt comfortable enough with her to let her see inside him.

"I still can’t believe you guys did it!" Isabel remarked as the other two also rose and grabbed their purses.

"I still can’t believe it sometimes." Liz smiled shyly.

"Did… did it hurt?" Maria had to ask. These were the things that young girls often wondered when it came to sex and first times.

Liz blushed again and smiled. "Well, at first, yeah, but… you know how Max can heal…and how he is…"

"So totally in love with you that your pain is his." Isabel finished with a teasing smile.

"Oh my God! So he like took the pain away!?" Maria sighed. Every girl liked romance. And Max Evans definitely was romantic when it came to Liz.

Liz nodded and then headed for the door. She wanted to see Max again. And the talk was embarrassing her, even though she trusted these two friends of hers with anything.

When the girls got down to the lobby, they saw a large group of their friends milling around waiting for the organized tours to get started.

Liz saw the way Michael and Alex were bantering with each other, and how they were both bantering Max together. Liz smiled and realized that the six of them had really become close over the last few months. Between Alex now knowing, and making it an even six, and Isabel and Alex’s own interest in each other, and how they had all pulled together with the scare in Roswell, and just the secret in general, their bond was really forming beyond just her and Max. Liz realized that the six of them were starting to sense each other as well. More proof of this was when Alex and Michael both turned around as if sensing the girls approaching.

She heard Isabel and Maria gasp, and wondered if they were starting to feel that connection across the room the way she and Max did. From the stunned looks on all four of their faces, Liz gathered they were. She met Max’s equally amused gaze, and knew he had seen the same thing she had in their friends. Max held out his hand for her and Liz slipped hers comfortably into his big, warm one.

"Okay everyone, listen up. The three tours are full, so you have to take the one you signed up for this morning. The busses are outside waiting, and the names of the tours are on them. Make sure you get on the right bus." Vicky announced from the middle of the room.

***********************

The six of them trekked all over the island that day, and enjoyed sharing the new sights and wonders with each other.

On the bus ride home, Liz was looking out the window, in peace, as Max slept beside her. She knew Alex and Isabel had dozed in the seat behind them, and Liz could see Maria’s head fall as she fell asleep, and how Michael leaned her toward him, and took her head onto his chest, leaning back against the window, so he could face Maria and let her stretch out in his arms.

Liz smiled at how Michael did all that without realizing it. Michael had changed a lot too. He had come to accept the three new friends into their group, and now he actually looked for them to be around.

Michael looked back and saw Liz smiling, and noticed she was the only other one awake. "Thank you." Michael said.

Liz stared at him for a minute, then nodded. She was pretty sure she knew what he was thanking her for, but wanted to make sure. Her connection with Michael was not as strong as hers was with Isabel now, and nowhere near hers with Max’s, but she was starting to sense things about Michael too. "For…?" she whispered, not wanting to wake anyone up.

"Everything." Michael shrugged and looked down at Maria and then back to Liz. As if hoping that was all he needed to say.

Liz smiled again and nodded. Michael relaxed, glad he didn’t have to say more, and then he too closed his eyes, just enjoying the feel of Maria in his arms.

Liz felt Max squeeze her hand, and she glanced at him. His eyes were bright and happy. She knew that he was happy that Michael was accepting her, accepting all of them. She knew a lot of it was this time away from Roswell they all had. They were all more relaxed and comfortable with each other. She wished they didn’t have to go back to Roswell. And back to all the problems and nightmares that still waited for them there.

************************

Liz didn’t know that one of their nightmares was only a few feet away. That a pair of eyes were boring into her back with hatred, and disappointment. He was making plans for her and Max. And couldn’t wait to get back to Roswell. It wouldn’t be long now…

*******************

Maria carried another load of dirty dishes across the Crashdown, to the pass through counter and turned to Liz who was picking up a large order. "And to think yesterday at this time we were in the warm sun lying on the beach!" Maria complained and rolled her eyes.

Liz smiled and nodded. She had been thinking the same thing. They had gotten back last night, and knew since they had been gone for a week, that they would have to work today. It was a Saturday, and it was crowded again. Liz knew from her parents, that in the week they were gone, nothing had happened, but the crowd today showed how much more at ease people of Roswell were becoming again.

All except for the six of them. They had all felt sudden fear when they had gotten off the bus back at Roswell High last night. They had each sensed the fear in each other and the heightened awareness made them all look at each other with worry. Max had put his arm around Liz and Isabel and reassured them all. And then their parents all started coming forward.

"Did your parents let you out of their sites much last night, Liz? I mean, even with Michael there with us in our apartment, my mom hovered over me, all worried and glad I was home. And she was really good with Michael too. She let him stay as late as he wanted, watching a movie with us, and I think Michael actually had a good time, too." Maria smiled remembering.

Liz went to the soda fountain to fill some drinks, and glanced over at Maria. "Yeah, my parents and I talked quite a bit last night. They admitted how worried they have been, letting me go on the trip, but then thinking, it was probably safer than being in Roswell. They’re feeling much better now, since nothing has happened here in quite a while."

"Yeah, my mom was saying how she was starting to feel better too. Thinking that maybe the town had overreacted."

"Maria, do you think it was nothing? That the girls just… left?" Liz asked.

Maria met her look and shook her head. "No more than you do." She said and grabbed another order.

It was after noon before the girls had their first break of the day. The breakfast rush had gone into the lunch rush. It was now after two, and both Liz and Maria had their feet up and were sitting in one of the now empty booths in the almost empty café.

"So, did Prince Charming spend the night on your roof again last night?" Maria teased with a twinkle.

Liz smiled and nodded. "Yeah. I don’t think Max is letting his guard down either, you know?"

Maria nodded. "Michael left to go home, then came back through my window again." She grinned.

Liz and Maria looked at each other and laughed. Who would have thought how different their lives would be after the shooting five months ago.

Alex came in just then, and seeing them, he smiled and headed over. He leaned against the booth and yawned. "Ladies." He greeted them.

Maria and Liz looked at their tired friend and laughed again. "Alex, did you sit outside Isabel’s window again all night?" Maria asked.

Alex straightened and tried to look like he didn’t know what they were talking about. "Me? What? What are you talking about?" he tried.

"Nice try Alex, but Is told us you’ve been camped out at her place for months now." Liz smiled and patted Alex’s hand.

"Isabel? Isabel told you? How did Isabel…?"

Maria rolled her eyes. Guys were so dense sometimes! Before they could continue, the bell rang and the three of them knew before they looked, that it was their other three friends. The "other half of their whole", as Liz now liked to tease.

Max and Michael slid into the booths next to their girls, and Alex slid an arm around Isabel and she leaned against him.

"Get any sleep?" Liz asked Max, brushing back a strand of hair that he fallen over his eye. He looked so tired.

"Yeah, a little this morning." He smiled and yawned, taking her hand in his.

Michael looked just as tired as he played with the ring on Maria’s finger.

Liz looked at Isabel and saw her worry was back too. She sighed. Liz wondered if she would ever see the three of them as relaxed again as they had been away from here.

"Let’s go back to our place tonight and watch a movie or something." Isabel suggested. All of them agreed, just wanting to be together as much as they could. They all felt safer when they were together.

********************

Vicky waved to her parents from the doorway, and closed and locked it just like they had suggested. They were going out for the night, but had begged her to keep the doors locked. Kyle wouldn’t be over for another hour. Vicky shivered with sudden fear, and closed the drapes around the house. She knew it was silly to feel as if she was being watched. But for some reason, this was the first time in months that she was all alone.

She heard a knock at the door and stiffened. Then realized, no one dangerous would knock! She laughed at herself and moved to the door. She looked through the peephole, and then laughed and relaxed. She threw open the door and smiled. "I’m so glad you’re here! I didn’t want to be alone." She said, and walked back toward the living room.

HE closed the door behind him and came up behind Vicky with an evil grin. If she had seen the crazy, wild look in his eyes, she would not have let him in, nor turned her back on him.

Part 12

Max picked up the phone as he laughed at something Alex had said. He turned away from the action/adventure movie on the TV, and his laughing friends, and cupped a hand over his ear.

When he hung up the phone, he grabbed his jacket and slipped it on as he came back over to the group.

"I’ll be right back, I’m going to get us a Pizza." Max said hurriedly and turned toward the door before any of them could meet his eyes for too long.

"Want me to go with you?" Michael called out, from where he was tickling Maria in the chair they shared.

"No. No, I’ve got it, I’ll be right back." Max said and slipped out the door.

Liz got up and walked to the window and watched as Max backed out of the Evan’s driveway with the jeep. She shivered and crossed her arms over herself. She just had to be imagining fear coming from Max. She was just taking this connection thing too seriously.

*********************

A half-hour later Liz looked at the clock and frowned. She got up and walked back to the window. Max still wasn’t back.

She felt Isabel come up behind her and then she too sighed. "Where could he be?" Isabel asked a loud, but not really expecting an answer.

Liz just bit her lip and turned to Isabel. "I don’t like it Is. He left here kinda in a rush, you know?"

Isabel nodded. She too had wondered what Max was trying to hide when he had practically bolted out of here. But she hadn’t wanted to worry anyone, in case it was just her imagination. Now she knew it wasn’t. For Liz had felt it too.

Alex called over to the girls and they exchanged looks and walked back over to the three sprawled out on the couches.

"Where the heck is Max?" Alex asked casually.

Michael sat up as if finally getting the vibes coming from Isabel and even Liz. He had been so absorbed in Maria, that he had missed it earlier.

He got up and grabbed his own coat.

"Michael wait, where are you going?" Isabel stepped in front of him.

"I’m gonna go look for him." Michael said with determination.

"You don’t know where to look do you? He might be back any minute, or call needing us. Then how would we know where to find YOU?" Isabel explained.

Michael turned and looked around him at all of them. "Look, I’m not just going to wait around here doing nothing! I gotta do something! I didn’t even notice earlier! Damn!" Michael said in frustration.

"Michael, don’t blame yourself. You know how good Max is at hiding his emotions so we don’t pick up on them right away. Beside, we had no reason to suspect he was in trouble when he left here." Isabel said.

Liz frowned, wishing she had said something earlier. "And don’t you start!" Isabel turned to Liz.

Liz raised her eyebrows in surprise, but accepted this strange connection between them all.

"So what are we going to do?" Maria asked with her own frown of worry.

Michael paced the room and swore softly. Alex watched Isabel as she tried to stay calm herself. He held out a hand and taking it, Isabel stood near him, taking a deep breath. Alex had a calming affect on her.

The shrill of the phone ringing made them all jump, and Isabel grabbed it up in one leap.

When she got off the phone a minute later, they all knew it was bad, but Isabel hadn’t said much on her end of the phone. She had mostly just listened. All they knew was that it was the sheriff’s deputy, calling for her parents. Isabel hung up and grabbed her coat. She met all their waiting eyes and swallowed.

"Vicky Delaney was attacked, and is in a coma. Someone heard her scream and they think it must have scared the guy away before he could do anything more."

"Max…?" Liz asked. She knew someone Max was involved.

Isabel nodded numbly. "The sheriff’s deputy called for our parents. Seems Max has been arrested for the attack on Vicky."

"NO! That’s crazy!" Liz burst out. OH GOD, the sheriff had Max!

Michael looked to Maria and she handed him the keys without a word. The five of them jumped into Maria’s car and Michael headed for the station.

The Evan’s were out for the night, but Isabel was sure they would hear about it and meet them there.

*******************

There was chaos when they got to the station house. The reporter from the local paper was there with his photographer, and the local TV station was there as well.

Isabel and Liz led the way through the gathering crowd, and the deputy let them all in.

"The Sheriff wants to talk to you kids." The deputy told them as they all passed.

Sheriff Valenti watched the five kids come up to the desk, fear written all over them. Liz and Isabel came right up to Valenti.

"Where’s my brother Sheriff. You have nothing to hold him hear with." She stated without knowing if he did or didn’t. She just knew he hadn’t done it.

Sheriff Valenti smiled enjoying the fear of the usually cool Evans’ girl. Then he turned to Liz who lifted her head high and waited for the sheriff to tell them what this was about.

"We have enough to hold him with Ms. Evans." He smiled, and looked at all five of the kids waiting.

"I don’t believe it! Max wouldn’t hurt a fly! We want to see him." Liz demanded.

Sheriff Valenti looked down at the pint-sized girl who had hurt his son, and gave her a hard look.

"You don’t have the right to demand anything Ms. Parker. I am the one who is calling the shots here, and the reason why you were allowed past that crowd out there, is because I have questions to ask all of you. One at a time." The sheriff smiled at their mutinous looks.

"Finally I’ve got something on Max Evans." The sheriff nodded. He had always known that Max Evans would screw up somehow, and the sheriff knew he would be there to catch him. He had never liked or trusted the Evans’ kid.

But how much did these friends of his know. Were they in on it? The sheriff was determined to find out.

It was after midnight when the Evan’s were allowed to post bail and get Max out of the jail. They had come rushing over from their favorite restaurant in the next town over, when they had heard the news, and had demanded their son’s release to them.

Since the sheriff only had one eye witnesses’ word that Max had been the one running out of Vicky’s house, he had to let Max go in his parents care for now.

Liz had run up to Max when he had been released, and hugged him tight. He looked terrible, and scared, and she just needed to hold him.

Max held Liz and tried to convey he was all right. He looked to the others and nodded. "I’m okay guys." He said.

His parents hugged him and so did Isabel. Then his parents rushed him out of there.

"Come by tomorrow and we’ll figure out what’s happening." Isabel whispered to the others as she followed her parents and Max to their car.

***********************

Liz tossed and turned in her bed and then gave up. She could not wait till morning to see Max. She crawled out of her window and found Alex outside on her chair.

She gasped and then looked relieved. "What are you doing here?" She asked.

"What do you think?" Alex asked.

To Part 13-18