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| Part 19A Michael and Maria�s Wedding Day. �Argh!� Michael threw his arms up in the air, letting out a frustrated growl. �This sucks, I can�t tie this stupid thing.� He began pacing, biting his fingernails as he began rambling nervously. �If I can�t even tie this stupid bowtie how in the heck am I supposed to get married and make a good husband?� He ran a shaky hand through his slicked back hair, shaking his head. �That�s it, I�m just not gonna get married.� He walked towards the door, but before he even got within two feet of it, Alex pulled him back. �Michael, relax.� Alex smoothed down the lapels of Michael�s tux jacket giving him a goofy grin. Kyle looked up from where he was lacing up his shoes. �Don�t even make have to get up Guerin. You know you�re like a brother to me, but if you so much as make Maria upset, in any way shape or form today, I�ll have to get all big brother on you. Got it?� Michael�s eyes were dancing like crazy, his Adam�s apple bobbing up and down wildly. Max shook his head, moving to stand in front of Michael. �Don�t listen to him. This is your wedding day. All you should be worried about is seeing Maria on that altar.� He reached out to tie Michael�s bowtie for him. �You don�t think Maria will show up?� He began pacing again. �Oh my God. Maria�s gonna leave me standing on the altar by myself.� Alex grabbed Michael by the shoulders, stopping his movement. �Michael, buddy. Relax. You and Maria will be fine today.� He gave him an encouraging smile. �I bet you she�s in her wedding gown, fidgeting because she can�t wait to marry you.� Michael smiled a dopey grin. �You�re right. I just have to relax.� He dug into his pocket opening up a bottle of cypress oil and sniffing it. When all of his friends looked at him funny, he got all defensive. �What? It�s cypress oil. It helps reduce stress.� Kyle chuckled, whispering to Max. �Two peas in a pod, I tell you.� *************** After Amy put the finishing touches to Maria�s make up, she stood back, her heart swelling at the sight of her first daughter getting married. She sniffed, putting a hand to her mouth. �Maria, you look so beautiful.� Maria fanned at her eyes, trying desperately to keep herself from crying. �Mom stop it. You�re gonna make my makeup run.� Amy threw her arms around Maria, giving her cheek a kiss. �You knock him off his socks, sweetie.� They hugged, before Amy left Maria in the care of her three best friends. Once the door shut tight, all four women yelled out. �Group hug!� Maria grinned widely. �You guys, I can�t believe I�m getting married.� The four women just gathered around, giggling like teenagers. A knock at the door startled them apart, causing them to laugh out loud. �You ladies decent?� Jim�s voice seeped into the room, making the girls smile. �Come on in, sheriff.� Jim poked his head inside, smiling. �Wow. Don�t you ladies look lovely?� He stepped into the room, nodding at each girl in turn. Maria cleared her throat. �Hey guys, you think you can give us a few minutes?� The girls quietly excused themselves, leaving Maria and Jim alone. Maria grinned. �So what do you think? Think I look ready to get married?� �Maria, you look absolutely beautiful. Michael�s not gonna know what hit him.� Maria blushed. She picked up the edges of her dress, walking towards Jim. �I just wanted to say thank you, for agreeing to walk me down the aisle today.� Jim smiled fondly at her. �Frankly I would�ve been hurt if I didn�t get to walk you down that aisle, because even though you�re not my blood, you�re my daughter in every sense of the word. I�m gonna be so proud, having you on my arm today.� Maria felt tears sting her eyes. She threw her arms around him, kissing his cheek. �Thank you. And I want you to know, that you�re the only father I�ve ever known. And I want to thank you for loving me like I was your flesh and blood.� When the first bars of the wedding march began to play, they pulled apart, smiling at each other through their tears. Maria held out her arm, smiling. �Ready to marry me off, dad?� Jim felt his heart thunder in his chest. In his eleven years of being married to Amy, Maria had never called him dad. It had always been Jim, or sheriff. His tears brimmed over, anchoring Maria�s arm to his. �I guess so.� He kissed her temple, moving to the door. Part 19B With the sound of the wedding march being played on the old church organ, the people in the small church stood up, waiting to watch the bride and groom make an arrival. Jade was the first to walk down the aisle, well, actually, more like skip down the aisle as she threw flower petals from her little basket, smiling and waving at everyone sitting in the pews. Noah was next, taking calculated steps as he carried the pillow that held the rings. Isabel held onto Alex�s arm tightly as they made their way down the aisle. �Alex?� �Hmm?� She whispered through her smile. �There�s something I need to tell you. After the wedding.� Alex gripped her arm. �Sure Iz.� Courtney held onto Kyle�s arm, taking a deep breath. �Ready?� she asked with a smile. Kyle nodded, walking them down the aisle. �Court, I know that every time we walk down the aisle at one of our friend�s weddings, I always say that it�ll be us next. But with everything that�s happened, our lives have been put on hold while we try to make a new home for the boys.� His voice was determined, full of conviction as he met Courtney�s blue eyes for a few seconds. �Before the summer gets here, I promise you that we will be married.� Courtney smiled through her tears, feeling her heart swell up at everything that Kyle had said. �I love you.� �Love you too Court.� Max looked down at Liz, grinning at how beautiful she looked in her bridesmaid�s dress. She was the most breathtaking girl in the room, and all he wanted to do was take her away where he could have her all to himself. Liz looked up at Max, feeling a little self-conscious with the way he kept smiling down at her. �What?� He gripped her hand, his smile widening. �Nothing. I just think you look very beautiful today.� His thumb stroked her knuckles gently. �You�re glowing.� Liz bit her bottom lip, feeling her cheeks pinken with her blush. �You sure know what to say to get lucky,� she teased. He felt his heart speed up. �Are you saying I�m gonna get lucky?� She chuckled as they neared the altar. �Tsk, tsk, Max. Behave yourself. We�re at a wedding.� Max snapped his teeth at her, before letting her go. Michael looked at either side of him, smiling his gratitude to the Parkers. �Mr. and Mrs. P. I just, I wanted to say thank you for walking down with me. I...� his voice was all choked up as he continued. �You guys and the Valentis are the closest I�ve come to real parents, and well.....just thank you.� Nancy squeezed Michael�s hand. �Michael, we�re honored to walk down with you today.� �Even more so that you would consider us as your family,� Jeff finished. Michael exhaled loudly. �I think I�m ready,� he chuckled. Jim turned to Maria, kissing her cheek before placing the veil over her face. �Ready?� Maria nodded. �Ready as I�ll ever be.� ***************** After the vows were exchanged, and the rings were placed on the appropriate fingers, the minister smiled. �With the power vested in me by the state of New Mexico, I pronounce you husband and wife.� He nodded. �You may kiss the bride.� Michael pulled up Maria�s veil with shaky hands, grinning like crazy. He took a deep breath, bending his knees slightly as he kissed Maria for the first time as her husband. She ran her hands through his hair, smiling as she spiked up his hair. They pulled away, both of them breathless. Michael smirked, spiking his hair up the rest of the way. �What? You didn�t like the slicked back look?� Maria shook her head. �Nah.� She fingered his spikes. �This is who I fell in love with.� ****************** The reception was in full swing, with everyone dancing and celebrating Michael and Maria. Jade looked up at Noah as they danced around. She tugged on his jacket. �Noah!� �What?� He stopped twisting them around as he listened to what Jade had to say. �My feet hurt.� She pointed to her cute little feet in her shiny white shoes. �But I don�t wanna stop dancing.� Noah smiled at her, taking her hands in his. �You can stand on my feet,� he offered. Jade grinned back at him, standing on his feet as Noah stepped from side to side, continuing to dance them around. Liz sat in a chair, smiling at her son fondly. Max came up behind her, kissing her cheek. She leaned into his kiss. �Would you look at that?� She pointed to their son, who had so gallantly taken Jade dancing with him. Max chuckled as he held up his hand to Liz. �Would you like to dance with me?� Liz shook her head sadly, sticking her feet from under her dress. �My feet are swollen.� He smiled as he brought her into his arms. �Well, we�ll just improvise then.� He placed his arms around her, swaying their sitting bodies to the music. Liz giggled as she buried her face in Max�s neck. �What are you doing?� �We�re dancing.� He kissed her earlobe, swaying the top halves of their bodies. *************** Alex waited patiently as Isabel prepared to tell him what it was that was bothering her. �Iz, whatever it is- �I�m pregnant,� she blurted out. Before Alex could respond, they were ushered to the dance floor where everyone had congregated to say goodbye to Michael and Maria. �We just wanted to thank you, for sharing this wonderful day with us.� Michael squeezed Maria to his side. �And we�re hoping, that by the time we get back from our honeymoon, that you�ll all join us for another wedding, with Kyle and Courtney.� Maria clapped her hands excitedly. Kyle and Courtney were stunned speechless as the crowd clapped and cheered. Maria walked up to them, offering them a smile. �I�m sorry if I stepped on any feet, but well, I know how tough things have been for you guys, so I�ve made most of the arrangements for the wedding. You guys can look over everything while Michael and I are away, and decide if you want to have- Courtney grabbed Maria, pulling her into an embrace. �I can�t believe that you would do this for us.� Maria patted Courtney�s back. �Hey, what are sisters for?� They pulled away, both of them smiling happy tears. Kyle came up to Maria, bringing his arms around her for a hug. �You know, you�re absolutely crazy for planning two weddings, but you know I love for it.� Maria just laughed, looking into Kyle�s baby blues. �You�re welcome.� Part 19C Rated: NC-17 Isabel shifted nervously in her seat, turning her head to look at Alex. She was worried about him. He hadn�t said a word since they had left the reception. �Alex, please, say something. Anything.� She pleaded with him, her voice trembling. �Alex, you�re scaring me.� Alex just looked at her and tipped his head to the side. After what seemed like forever, a smile danced across his lips, but he didn�t say anything. He turned his head back to face the front as he continued to drive. All of a sudden, he rolled down the windows, honking his horn as he stuck his head outside, screaming at the top of his lungs. �I�M GONNA HAVE A BABY!� He began thumping his hand against the horn, continuing to scream things out of the window, his patented Whitman grin, plastered to his face. �I�M GONNA BE A FATHER!� They stopped at a stop sign, when somebody gave them a thumbs up after hearing Alex�s little announcement. Alex�s grin grew wider as he held up both of thumbs. When they drove up to their apartment complex, he turned to look at Isabel who was seemed a little dazed. He reached over to touch her arm. �Iz?� Isabel turned to face him, looking a little perplexed. �What was that?� Alex blushed as the magnitude of what he had done just hit him. But he just sat up straighter, not letting his smile fade. His knuckles caressed Isabel�s cheek, as he whispered. �Iz, you just gave me the best news you could�ve ever given me- Before he could even finish his sentence, Isabel climbed over the middle console, dropping herself on Alex�s lap as she fused her lips to his. �I love you.� Alex�s head thumped against the headrest. He wove his fingers through Isabel�s hair, his other hand, gingerly laying on her stomach. �And I love you both.� ****************** Maria clung desperately to Michael�s arm as their plane began to take off. Her eyes were shut tightly, as she began mumbling obscenities. Michael gripped her hand, kissing her temple. �Hey, you ok?� Maria shook her head. �No.� She turned wide, frightened eyes at him. �Michael, I�ve never been on a plane before, much less been out of New Mexico.� She tilted her head back, taking shallow breaths. �Omigod, I think I�m hyperventilating.� �Shh...� He rubbed her shoulder consolingly as he dug into his pocket. When he found what he was looking for, he smiled, handing the small bottle to Maria. Maria clasped the small bottle in her hand, looking at Michael. He just grinned. �It�s cypress oil, it helps reduce stress.� Maria uncapped the bottle, inhaling the calming scent. After getting some relief, she shook her head in disbelief. �Since when did you start carrying around cypress oil?� He shrugged his shoulders as he sat back in his seat. �When I realized I wasn�t a stone wall.� She pushed up the arm rest, cuddling herself under Michael�s heavy arm. �Love you.� �Ditto.� ****************** Kyle and Courtney stood at the doorway of the boys� room, both of them smiling to see them so peaceful. Kyle wrapped his arms around Courtney�s waist, speaking softly in her ear. �You know, in a few weeks, all of this will be a reality. We�re all gonna be family.� Courtney sighed, snuggling back against Kyle. �I can�t wait. I just my sister were here to see it.� �I think that wherever Carrie and Chris are, they�ll be there to see you walk down the aisle. When people die, they don�t just go away. They just move on to a better place,� Kyle whispered. Courtney cupped Kyle�s jaw, bringing his lips to hers for a kiss. ******************* Max tucked the covers securely around Noah, his fingers finding their way through his soft locks. He smiled, kissing Noah�s cheek before rising. �Nite nite, little man.� Max walked to the door, taking one last glance at his son�s sleeping form before shutting off the light and closing the door. Before he even made it to his and Liz�s room, he began stripping, taking off his shirt, then kicking off his shoes. He kicked the door closed behind him, his hands poised on the fastening of his pants, when Liz came out of the bathroom, fresh from her bath. The room was filled with the aroma of strawberries, making Max�s nostrils flare, his manhood stirring in his pants. She smiled at him, inching off her robe, revealing her golden skin as she got up on the bed. She sat on her knees, holding up a bottle of lotion. �Wanna give your pregnant wife a hand?� Max nodded mutely, kicking off his pants as he joined her on the bed. Liz threw her hair over one shoulder, grinning at Max. �I couldn�t reach my back.� Max took the bottle from her hands, easing the rest of her robe away. He gasped when he realized that she was naked underneath, her soft supple skin, on display for his eyes only. Closing his eyes from the onslaught of lust, he tried to keep himself under control. He didn�t want Liz to think that he was some sort of sex depraved maniac. He could definitely help her out without letting this get sexual. Or so he thought. Liz turned playfully eyes at Max as she leaned her weight on her forearms and elbows. �Earth to Max! Do you copy?� Max had to blink a few times to get moisture into his eyes. He hadn�t even realized that he had been staring. �Wh-what?� She gave him a coy look, as she eyed the bottle of lotion in his hands. �Lotion?...On my back?� Max�s eyes traveled down her naked back, all the way down to her cute little tush. He couldn�t help but lick his lips, before shaking the bottle in his hands. �Right, lotion.� He popped the top, pouring a generous amount on his hands. He rubbed his palms together, wanting to warm the lotion so as not to shock Liz with it�s coldness. He leaned over her, starting with her hands, massaging them as his breath hovered hotly against her ear. Liz bit her pillow, stifling her moan. She felt her cheeks burn at her wantonness. He was just massaging her hands, and she could already feel herself getting wet. When had she become this sex crazed maniac? She didn�t want Max to get the wrong idea. This wasn�t a ploy to seduce him. She really did just need help with putting lotion on her back. She bit the inside of her lip as his large hands continued down her arms, brushing lightly over the sides of her breasts. She tapped down on the urge to thrust her hips back. She could get through this without mauling Max. For goodness sakes, he was just giving her a massage. Max could feel the sweat forming on his brow as he continued to work on Liz�s back. It was if his hands had a mind of their own. He could feel himself trembling with need, and he wanted to get this done as soon as possible, but his hands had other ideas. They wanted to explore each and every part of her smooth skin. He moved forward, reaching to squeeze the tension out of her shoulders, when his hardness brushed against the softness of her behind. He froze, scared of how Liz would react to his uncontrollable body. Liz groaned when she felt Max�s erection brush against her butt. She could feel him straining against the cotton of his boxers. Smiling despite her sexual predicament, Liz reached her hand around, slipping her hand through the slit of Max�s boxers, grasping him tightly in her small hand. So maybe she wasn�t the only one who was so affected, she thought amusedly. �Liizzzzz......� Her name came out as one long moan, his hips thrusting against the movement of her hand. His eyes closed as her hot little hand continued to stroke him, to ignite the fire deep within him to burn brighter. Liz get go of him reluctantly, throwing a heated glance over her shoulder. �Max, I need you.� Max met her molten stare, nodding as he shed his boxers. He placed his hand on her waist, trying to get her to lie back, but she shook her head. She grabbed his arousal, bringing him to her opening, as she lifted her hips in the air. �I want you like this.� Max threw his head back, forcing himself to slow down instead of ramming into her like a raging bull. He placed his hands on her delicate hips, slowing easing himself inside her. Both of them let out a long serrated moan at their joining. Max drew back, slowly sliding himself back inside Liz�s warm depths. �Yes....Oh God.....� Liz reached her hand behind her, her hands gently cupping Max�s sacs. Max was surprised at Liz�s bold movement, causing him to sit up, changing the angle of his penetration. �Oh God.....Yes.....right there....Maaaax.....� Liz�s breath came out into broken pants as she rose her hips to meet his frantic thrusts, her hand continuing to fondle his sensitive sacs. �Lizzzz.......:Lizzzzzzz.....Oh God......Lizzz....� Her name was a mantra on his lips, as he increased the force of his thrusts, his skin glistening with sweat as he worked to bring them to that mind blowing place. The sound of his flesh slapping against hers, drove him wild, causing him to lean over her back, his hands, cupping her breasts. His thumbs brushed over each of her nipples, working it with his thumb and forefinger as he made them harden into stiff peaks. Liz moaned, bucking her backside to him. �Maaax.....please.....� Max lay a sloppy kiss on her shoulder, his hand, reaching for her chin, his mouth devouring hers, trying to swallow her whole. His hand gripped her hip tightly, holding her up as he felt his thrusts gain momentum. He reached over her leg, between her silky thighs, his fingers brushing against her special bundle of nerves. Liz sucked Max�s tongue hard in her mouth as she felt herself go over, her walls closing over Max�s heated flesh rhythmically. Max continued to buck his hips, as he emptied out the last of his seed inside Liz. When their orgasms subsided, Max slumped forward, his forehead resting against Liz�s shoulder. Liz reached for his hand, bringing it up to her lips for a kiss, both of them still trying to regain a normal breathing pattern. Part 20A Max sat in the nursery, fiddling with Noah�s old crib as he tried to set it up. Liz looked down at him with sleepy eyes from where she had fallen asleep in the rocking chair. �Hey.� Max looked up, taking the baseball cap off of his head to ruffle his hair, then placing it back on his head. He smiled warmly at Liz, reaching out to touch the smooth skin of her calves. �Hey, you. How was your nap?� Liz yawned, stretching her arms lazily. �Good.� She grinned when she saw the state of disarray the nursery had become since Max had started working on the crib. �Looks like things are going well,� she teased, her doe eyes sparkling. Max made a face as he stared at the miscellaneous pieces of the crib. �You know, you�d think these companies could make something that people can actually build.� Liz hid her smile behind her hand. �Did you try the instruction booklet?� He turned to look at her sharply, offended that she would insinuate that he would need help from a stupid book to build a silly little crib. �I don�t need a book to tell me how to build my daughter�s crib. I did it with Noah, I think I�m pretty capable of doing it for Leah.� He shook his head, but smiled when he eyed the mobile that he had successfully put together. He held it up proudly, giving Liz a lopsided smile. �I put this together.� Liz giggled, taking off Max�s cap so that she could run her fingers through his hair. �Oh honey, that�s great. Now, if only we had something we could hang it on.� �Ha ha ha.� Max turned away, bending over to gather the pieces of the crib so that he could put it together. Liz tilted her head, muttering under her breath. �Not bad.� She brought her fingers to her lips, whistling loudly as she began catcalling. �Woohoo! Shake that bootie!� Max turned his head, rolling his eyes in jest. �First you insult my masculinity about not being able to put together the crib together, now you�re treating me like a piece of meat.� He got back on all fours, reaching for the rest of the pieces, making sure to give Liz an eyeful, as he swayed his butt back and forth. Liz was beside herself with giggles. �Tease!� She was set on continuing to play with Max when the phone rang. She reached for the cordless, holding it up to her ear. �Hello?� "Hey Lizzie! How are the munchkins doin�?� Liz chuckled into the phone. �Maria, what are you doing calling me? It�s your honeymoon!� "I know, I know. Just wanted to check in and say that married life is treating us well.� Both girls chuckled into the phone. �Hey Ria, hold that thought. I have another call.� "Oh, I won�t keep you. Just wanted to say hi, and love you babe. Give the fam smooches for me.� �Love you too. And I will. Oh and be sure that Michael sees some sun while you guys are out there,� she laughed into the phone. "Bye, hun!� Liz was met with a click of the phone. She smiled, pressing the flash button to get the other call. �Hello?� "Liz?" �Iz?� "It�s me. I was wondering if you and Max were doing anything tonight? Alex and I are going to mom and dad�s for dinner, and we have some news that we wanted to share with everyone.� �No, we�re not doing anything. What time should we get there?� "Around sixish? Is that ok?� Liz smiled. �Sounds great. Tell mom that we�ll be bringing dessert.� "Alright, and thanks, Liz.� �Talk to you later.� Liz hung up the phone, trying to get out of the rocker, when she couldn�t quite maneuver herself up. She held out her arms, batting her eyelashes at Max. �Help, please?� Max stood up, eyeing Liz playfully. �Why should I help you? I feel like my emotions have toyed with enough.� Liz reached out to pinch his side. �Yeah? Well you are the reason why I am now looking like hippo,� she taunted. Max just raised his eyebrow. �Really? Well I didn�t hear you complaining.� Liz grinned widely. �Alright, you got me. You think you could just give me a shove in the right direction? I promised Isabel I�d bring dessert to your mom�s for dinner, and I need to get cracking if I�m gonna do that.� Max bent down, placing most of Liz�s weight on him as he helped her up and into the kitchen. He leaned against the counter, frowning as he watched her move around. �You know, maybe we should just buy dessert? I don�t want you overworking yourself.� Liz looked up from where she was measuring her dry ingredients. �Max, I�m fine. I need something to do, rather than just sit around eating and sleeping all day.� Max looked reluctant to leave her be, but she pointed up the stairs. �Come on, you still need to finish the crib. I want it to be done before my grandma comes to visit.� He just nodded, jogging up the stairs. Before walking into the nursery, he stopped into Noah�s room to find him playing with his legos. Noah looked up, smiling at him. �Hi daddy. Wanna come play?� he offered. Max shook his head, coming to sit down in front of Noah. �Actually, little man, I was wondering if you could do something for me.....� *************** A few minutes later, Noah came down the stairs, sitting himself on a stool at the breakfast counter. He placed his elbows on the tabletop, leaning his chin on his hands. Liz looked up from mixing the cake batter, laughing as Noah watched her intently. �Hey precious, what are you doing down here? I thought you were playing legos?� Noah just shrugged his shoulders. �Is okay. I just came down to watch you.� Liz stopped mixing, wiping her hands on her apron as she pushed the hair out of her eyes. �Oh really? And why is it that you came down here to watch me?� �Nuthin�.� He replied casually. Looking at him disbelievingly, Liz walked up to him, then up the stairs. �Did your dad send you down here to watch me?� Noah didn�t answer, just simply looking down. Liz tilted up his chin. �Noah....� He sighed heavily. �But I�m not supposed to tell, momma.� Interested, Liz leaned across the counter, watching her son�s troubled face. �Tell me what?� He let out a breath, looking into his mother�s eyes. �I�m not supposed to tell you that I�m supposed ta be watchin� you. To protect you while daddy�s busy,� he finished. He hadn�t realized that he had inadvertently revealed his secret. Liz felt her heart burst into a million different pieces. �Aww, honey. That�s really sweet of you to want to protect me, but I can take care of myself.� He nodded, reaching out to pat her hand. �I know, that�s what I told daddy, but he doedn�t believe me. He says that he�s worried.� He leaned in close, his voice lowering to a whisper. �Maybe we can keep it secret? I�ll just sit here and watch you, that way daddy won�t be so scared?� Liz smiled at how wonderful and caring her son was. He was definitely the miniature version of Max, always worrying and caring for everyone else. She kissed his cheek, holding out her pinkie finger. �Ok, pinkie swear.� He grinned, linking his pinkie finger with hers. �Pinkie swear.� Liz kissed the top of his head as she started moving around the kitchen again. �You know what, when I�m done with the spoon, I�ll let you lick it.� He clapped his hands together, his eyes twinkling with an excited gleam. �Oooh, can I share with daddy?� Liz placed a hand to her chest. �Of course you can, precious.� Part 20B Liz put on a light sweater as she came down the stairs. She walked into the kitchen, intending to put the cake in carrying container, when she found Max and Noah, sticking their fingers into the frosting. �Hey, hey....you two get out of there.� She playfully smacked Max on his shoulder as she shooed away her two cake bandits. She grabbed a spatula, smoothing out the part that they had swiped some frosting off. She shook her head at her boys, despite the smile that was creeping up on her face. �I cannot believe you two. I already let you guys lick the spoon, and the bowl, and now you�re trying to attack the cake before we even get to mom�s house for dinner.� Noah grinned, his two front teeth covered in chocolate. �I�m sorry momma, but it�s just soooo good.� Liz bent down as far as her tummy would allow, her hands ruffling Noah�s hair. �Go brush your teeth honey. I wouldn�t want your gramma kissing you with all that chocolate all over your teeth.� Liz stood back up, placing a hand on her lower back as she eyed her husband. �Max, Max, Max....what am I going to do with you?� He grinned to show all of his teeth, but like Noah, he had chocolate all over them. Liz stifled a laugh as she pointed to his teeth. �Honey, you got a little sumthin� sumthin� on your teeth.� She pointed to her own teeth to demonstrate where it was. Max swiped his tongue over his teeth, grinning again at Liz. �Is it gone?� She nodded, before pulling his face down to hers for a kiss. Her velvety tongue teased open his lips, swiping past his teeth, as she sought the deepest recesses of his mouth. When Max groaned, Liz pulled away. �I thought you said it was all gone?� He asked, a little dazed. Liz proceeded to pack up the cake. �Oh, it was. I just love your chocolate flavored kisses.� She looked over to him, winking, then laughing as she saw the tips of his ears turn pink. Noah stood by the front door, tying up his shoes. �Let�s go. I�m ready!� Liz raised an eyebrow at Max. �You heard the boss, let�s go.� **************** Diane watched amusedly as Isabel stuck her nose in every pot on the stove. She crossed her arms, smiling. �Isabel, relax. Everything is fine.� Isabel nodded, taking a seat on a stool. �Right.� She reached for the salad bowl, eating some vegetables while they were waiting. Diane reached over to touch, Isabel�s hand. �Honey, is everything all right? You seem a little tense.� �I�m fine. I just wish Max and Liz would get here already.� �Speaking of, why are you guys all here for dinner tonight? Not that I mind, I really miss cooking for a family.....� Isabel turned pleading eyes to her mother. �Mom, I promise you, when Max and Liz get here, Alex and I will tell everyone the news. We just want everyone together so that we can say it all at once.� Diane nodded, when the doorbell rang. �We come bearing dessert.� Liz�s voice filtered into the house as she made her way into the kitchen. She exchanged hugs with the family, helping Diane put the cake on a serving dish. Diane opened up the container, eying the cake carefully. Liz placed her hand on Diane�s arm. �Is something wrong?� Diane just laughed. �Nothing�s wrong, it�s just that when Izzie told me that you were bringing dessert, I was expecting to see it half eaten, or at least nibbled on.� Max pulled out Liz�s seat, helping her sit down. �Funny, mom. But I�m grown now, I can actually control myself.� He excused himself, going to find Alex and his dad. Diane sat in front of Liz, smiling. �The truth?� �I probably wouldn�t have had a cake to bring over if I didn�t catch them in time. They both had their fingers dipped into the frosting.� All the women laughed as they gathered around the table. Diane reached over to touch Liz�s belly. �So how�s my granddaughter doing?� �She�s good. Although Max is already spoiling her.� She grinned. Isabel sat back, watching the contented smile on her mother�s face as she listened intently to all of Liz�s pregnancy stories. She smiled, hoping that her mother would be that interested when she told them about her pregnancy. ****************** After dinner was finished, Diane brought out the chocolate cake that Liz had baked. She offered everyone a slice as Phillip handed everyone a cup of coffee. Max whispered in Liz�s ear. �Do you want me to get you a glass of milk?� She smiled against him, nodding as she picked up her fork. Phillip placed a cup of coffee in front of Isabel, but she pushed it away. �No thanks, dad. No caffeine for me.� Alex placed a hand on her shoulder as he called out to Max. �Hey Max, you think you could bring a glass of milk for Isabel too?� Max gave Alex a look, grabbing a third cup of milk. He gave one to Liz, Noah, and then placed one in front of Isabel. Diane rubbed her palms together as she looked to Isabel and Alex. �So, what�s the big news that you guys wanted to tell us?� Isabel put her milk down, turning to look at Alex. He gave her a smile of encouragement, squeezing her hand firmly. �Well, mom and dad, Alex and I, we�re pregnant.� Everyone was silent for a minute before Noah spoke up. �You guys are having a little one too Auntie Iz?� She grinned at him excitedly, nodding her head. Alex smiled at Noah, touching his soft cheek. �That�s right pal. This baby is gonna be your cousin.� Noah nodded, as he swallowed his piece of cake. �Cool. Another baby.� Isabel looked around at everyone. �Aren�t you guys gonna say something?� Liz stood up, hugging Alex and Isabel. �I�m so happy for you guys.� She pulled away from Alex, hugging Isabel again. �Do you realize how great this is? Our kids are going to be so close in age.� She grinned as she whispered in Isabel�s ear. �So I was right?� Isabel laughed. �Yeah, I went to the Dr. a couple of days afterwards and I found out.� Max stepped in, hugging his sister. �I can�t believe you�re gonna have your own baby. My little sister.� Isabel pulled back, smiling as she poked his chest. �Hey, I�m only your little sister by five minutes.� Max laughed, shaking Alex�s hand. �I don�t know whether to congratulate you or beat you up for getting my sister pregnant,� he joked. Liz pinched Max�s side. �Max, quit it.� Max smiled a broad smile, pulling Alex into a hug. �Congratulations, Alex.� Alex gave a goofy grin, patting Max on the back. �Thanks.� Max and Liz stepped away, making room for Diane and Phillip who were looking a little bit dazed. �Mom and dad?� Isabel asked, a little worried. Diane looked up at her husband, shaking her head in disbelief. �Phillip, do you hear that? We�re going to be grandparents again.� He smiled. �For the third time.� The two of them hugged Alex and Isabel, letting out excited giggles, and words of advice for the new parents to be. They all stopped talking when Noah�s voice piped up. �So how long before your little one gets here, Uncle Alex?� Alex grinned. �Well Noah, it�ll be a while yet.� Noah stood up, patting Alex�s hand consolingly. �Good luck, waiting.� He sighed. �It�s gonna be a long wait. I�ve been waitin� for Leah to get here, but momma and daddy say it�s still gonna be a while.� He threw up his hands, shaking his head as he went to the living room. �They keep on saying that.� All the adults laughed at Noah�s predicament, thinking it was adorable that he couldn�t wait for his little sister to be born. Part 21A Maria breezed through the double doors of the Crashdown, placing her sunglasses on the top of her head as she made a beeline for the back booth that the girls had occupied. �Ladies, ladies, ladies.....let the fun begin, cos Maria Deluca-Guerin is back home!� She slid into the booth, practically glowing. �Look at you, don�t you look gorgeous.� Isabel picked up a strand of Maria�s blonde hair, noticing how it had seemed to have a richer color. Maria grinned wildly, exposing all of her teeth. She held out her arms, tilting her head to the side. �So whatcha guys think? Does married life agree with me?� All of the girls giggled, nodding their heads. �Oh, most definitely.� Maria reached over the table, squeezing Courtney�s hand in hers. �Three down, and one to go.� She winked, clicking her tongue against the roof of her mouth. �How cool is it going to be that you�re gonna officially be part of the family in less than a few weeks?� Courtney was just a ball of giddiness as she let out a breath. �I can�t believe that Kyle and I are finally gonna get married.� She sighed. �Gosh, it seems just like yesterday that I would watch him with you guys and wished that he would even look my way once.� Liz shook her head. �Yeah, well I don�t know how you went through all that time, not knowing that Kyle had this huge crush on you. He was so obvious about it,� she laughed. Isabel made a face at Liz as she chuckled. �Well if I recall correctly, you and Max had that whole not realizing that you guys were madly in love with each other thing when you guys first met.� She made a hand gesture, letting out a dramatic sigh. Liz stuck out her tongue at Isabel, making everyone laugh. Maria drummed her fingers against the table, looking each girl on the face. �Ok, first things first. How are the munchkins doing?� Courtney�s eyes lit up as she started telling her story. �Oh, Kyle has been trying to teach the boys the teapot song.� Her soft laughter echoed, as she continued. �They can�t quite do it, but they love making Kyle do it, and you know how he�s a sucker for little kids. All they need to do is work the lower lip and he�s a goner.� They all chuckled at the sight of Kyle continuously doing the teapot song for the boys. Liz slapped her hand down, laughing. �Well, Noah�s been getting really impatient for Leah to get here. He�s started doing this thing, where he like sits next to me, and wraps his arms as far as they�ll go around my waist and has this whole conversation with Leah.� She gushed as she recalled the scene in her head. �He tells her stories about everyone, but you know, they all eventually lead back to Jade.� She waved her hand in the air. �It�s always Jade this, Jade that.� She almost doubled over in giggles as she continued. �I told him that he always talked so much about Jade, that I was starting to get jealous. And my little baby just blushed. He looked at me with those big round eyes and said, �Don�t be jealous momma, I still love you lots.�� Maria�s mouth turned into an O shape. �Aww.....that�s just so sweet. You know those two are like a match made in heaven.� Isabel grinned as she spoke up. �Well Alex came home from work early the other day, and he got me these.� She dug into her purse, pulling out a pair of baby sneakers. �I didn�t know whether to laugh, or gush at how cute he was being. I actually had to remind him that we have nine months to go- Maria�s eyes widened. She held her hand up. �Hold up....Back the truck up...� She started moving her hands back and forth as if she were guiding a truck that was backing up. �Beep...beep....beep....� Liz�s face was a mixture of horror and laughter as she stopped Maria. �Why are you beeping?� Maria rolled her eyes. �It�s a metaphor of sorts.� Isabel nodded thoughtfully. �You know, Alex does that too.� She waved her hands around in the air. �You know the whole beeping thing and actions.� Courtney and Liz leaned their heads against each other as the laughed loudly. Maria just dismissed them with a wave of her hand. �Okay, enough of that. What�s this thing with baby sneakers and nine months?� She raised an eyebrow at Isabel, as she crossed her arms. �Miss Isabel, is there something you�re not sharing with the class?� Isabel tugged on her bottom lip, shrugging her shoulders. �Well....� Maria scoffed, pretending to be hurt. �I can�t believe you. Why didn�t you call me?� Isabel laughed. �What on your honeymoon? I could see that going real well.� She held her hand up to her ear, pretending it was a phone. �Hello, Michael? Yeah, this is Isabel. I know it�s your honeymoon, but it�s imperative that I talk to Maria and tell her the important news, that I am with child.� Maria couldn�t hold her laughter in anymore. �With child? Girl, where did you even come up with that one?� Before Isabel could get out a word, Jeff came out of the kitchen, balancing four plates in his arms. �Alright, we�ve got a Sigourney Weaver for Courtney with Saturn rings instead of fries. A Will Smith for Maria. Blood of Alien Smoothie, and a space dog with Space fries for Isabel. And lastly, a double Sigourney Weaver, a Men In Black Cherry pie, and a glass of milk for Liz and Leah.� Liz scratched the side of her head. �Thanks, dad, but I didn�t order milk.� Jeff winked at her as he ruffled her hair like she was still a little girl. �I know, but I couldn�t help myself.� He kissed the top of her head. He tipped his head to the girls. �Enjoy lunch!� Part 21B Kyle handed Alex a copy of the brochure, holding his breath. �So, whatdya think? You think Courtney will like it?� Alex grinned. �You�re kidding me right? You didn�t just ask me that question, right?� Michael reached over the picnic table, looking over the information. His lips turned down, as he nodded. �Wow, this is some honeymoon.� He scratched the non-existent stubble on his chin. �I didn�t realize that you were making so much at the police station.� Kyle took the brochure back, stuffing it into his shirt pocket. �I�m not. I just figured that Courtney and deserved to have a few weeks of fun in the sun without having anything to worry about.� �So where are you guys leaving the twins?� Alex asked, trying to be nonchalant. Kyle smirked. �I know how much you and Isabel wanna test drive being parents and all, but Court�s parents are gonna be taking them. Although I don�t know how Courtney and I are going to go through days on end not being with them. They�ve been with us since.....since everything, well, it just feels like something�s missing when they�re not there.� Michael nodded thoughtfully. �Well it isn�t like you guys are going away forever. You and Courtney will have your fun in the sun.� He winked. �Trust me, the chicks dig it.� Alex laughed, as he slapped Michael on his shoulder. �My friend, you�re a married man now. Talking that way is a big no-no. If you do, you�ll gain a new friend in your couch.� Michael made a face at Alex, his laughter rumbling from his chest. �You seem like you know that from personal experience, Alex. You telling me that Iz�s hormones are off-whack already?� Alex grinned, wagging his finger at Michael, his head shaking back and forth. �Nice try, but you ain�t kicking me off my high.� �Darn!� All eyes turned to Max as he continued to fiddle with his knitting sticks. Looking perplexed, Kyle tilted his head to the side, his lips curled into a smile. �How�s the knitting going, Max?� Max let out a heavy sigh as he held out the mittens he was trying to knit. �Well, I can�t get them to be the same size.� He held out the uneven sized mittens, frowning. �Hey, maybe you�ll start a trend. If not, you know that Leah can always grow into the bigger one.� Michael joked. The deep rumble of Max�s laugh filled the air around them, causing the other guys to laugh with him. *************** Damian was practically swimming in the sandbox. He took a handful of sand, holding it out for Dexter. �For you, brodder.� Dexter grinned his thanks, taking the sand in his hands before throwing it up in the air, both of them laughing. Noah stuck his foot in the circle, as Jacob began counting off. �Inie meenie, minie, moe. Catch a tiger by it�s toe. If he hollers, let him go, inie meenie, minie, moe.� Jade pushed her way into the circle, sticking her foot in. �I wanna play, I wanna play.� Jacob scowled at her, his arms coming to rest across his chest. �You can�t play, you�re a girl.� Jade�s hands came to rest on her waist, her eyes boring into Jacob�s. �So, doedn�t mean I can�t play. Anytin� you can do, I can do betta!� Jacob rolled his eyes. �Tag is a boys game. You should go and play with your barbies.� He turned to his friends, making silly faces, pretending to imitate how girls played with their dolls. Jade�s head swung from side to side, her soft curls bouncing around her face. �Yeah, well I don�t even got barbies.� Jacob held his hand to his stomach, pretending to roll over in laughter. �Then what kind of a girl are you?� Jade could feel the tears welling up in her eyes as the boys mocked her, but she stood up taller, nonetheless. �Oh yeah? Well- Noah pushed Jacob away from Jade, his handsome little face marred by a deep frown. �Leave her alone, Jacob.� Jacob�s scowl deepened, as Noah stood up for Jade. He shrugged his shoulders. �Noah, you wanna play with that girl instead of us?� Noah stood up straighter, nodding his head. �Yeah.� He took Jade�s hand in his, pulling her away from the group. �Let�s go.� Jacob stood there, stunned to the core as he watched Noah walk away with Jade. He never figured that he would leave and play with a girl instead of them. �Well fine, go then! We didn�t like you anyways.� He held his hands to his ears, his head flopping from side to side as he began calling out to their retreating forms. �Noah and Jade, sittin� in a tree. K, I, S, S, I, N, G!� Jade was about ready to turn around and give Jacob more than a piece of her mind, when Noah pulled her back. �Forget about them.� He gave her a shy smile as he led her to the sandbox where Damian and Dexter were playing. �You�re more fun to play wit anyway.� Jade�s eyes widened before she smiled. She quickly leaned over, giving Noah a peck on his cheek before jumping into the sandbox with the twins. �Ick!� Noah wiped his cheek where Jade had kissed him, but the smile on his lips betrayed his actions. Back Next |