| Our Story |
| Part 35 ******************** After hours of crying and holding one another, both Max and Liz fell into an exhausted sleep. Sleep would�ve have been difficult had they been on their own, but being in each other�s arms held a healing quality that only they could provide each other. Max had been the first to wake up, finding it a little more difficult to find solace in a dream world, when his current one was a mass of misunderstandings and heartache. How he wished to fall asleep and forget, but his conscious wouldn�t let him. Deep in his heart, he felt a gnawing guilt that was eating at him alive. He had failed the one person he had promised to keep safe above all else. His hand drifted to Liz�s back, watching as her body hummed in sleep, her back rising and falling to the beat of her breaths as she slept on her stomach. In the dim moonlight, she looked angelic as ever. But even so, he could still see the faint tear tracks on her cheeks, the slight flush creeping all the way down to her chest. He hated her tears. He hated seeing the moisture build up in her eyes, the way her nose would crinkle slightly, the way her bottom lip would tremble, her teeth eventually biting down to keep herself from crying. He had always thought that typical of her, not wanting anyone to see her cry. That�s why it was even more gut wrenching for him. He knew that she always tried to put on a brave front, especially for him. So when her tears finally fall, it wasn�t only her that was crying. He was crying too. All the pain she felt, he felt ten-fold. Tonight was no different. He knew that he had hurt her. The words that had flown out of his mouth, the questions he knew were unfounded had all but sliced through her heart. He knew that it was ridiculous for him to think that Liz felt any differently than how she acted, but Josh had known his sore spot. He knew he wasn�t perfect. Heck, he was far from it. He was a mere mortal that had been blessed more times than he could count. But sometimes he had to wonder why. He always wondered how much Liz could love him. He knew he wasn�t worthy, but someone blatantly pointing out the obvious only served to ignite his insecurities to a new level. Liz was his life, and regardless of how unworthy he felt, he knew that he couldn�t live without her either. Without her, he would be nothing. Everything he did, he did for her. He had been on a murderous rage, wanting to make Josh pay. Liz had been defenseless against him, so Max was going to treat him to someone his own size. The anger that he felt, left him teetering on the edge. There was no question about what he had planned on doing. If Noah hadn�t had called him when he did, Max was pretty sure that he would have killed Josh. And that scared him. He was so blind when it came to everything else. He had come home only because Liz needed him. That was the only thing that had saved Josh Harper�s life. He had called the sheriff, telling him of Josh�s whereabouts, watching from his car as they took the bastard away. Liz shifted, snuggling closer to Max�s body. She sought his warmth, his comfort, his strength, and most of all, the safety that his arms provided. Her lips let out an audible sigh, finally curling into a content smile as nuzzled her nose against his neck, her face fitting against the crook of his neck as if it were made just for her. Max�s heart constricted in his chest, his fingers tangling in her hair as he breathed her in. �I love you so much, Liz.� His face buried in her hair, his body wracked with sobs as he heard her sleep filled voice float into his ears. �Love you....� Even in sleep, it was without a doubt that she loved him just as much as he loved her. **************** Michael held Maria�s hand tightly, basking in all of the support she provided. He looked down into her adoring eyes, breathing deeply. He turned to Joey, his mouth finding it difficult to make words. But he persisted, not wanting to waste another minute. �I know I�m probably the last person you want to see. I was the biggest jerk, and I don�t deserve your forgiveness. I was an ass when all you did was tell me the truth, and for that, I�m truly sorry.� Joey wrung her hands, the tears already pooling. She opened her mouth to stop him from going on, but he stopped her with his hand in the air. �Just let me finish, and afterwards, you can feel free to throw me out on my ass.� He watched her bob her head uncertainly. �I can�t take back the way I reacted, but I can make a difference now....that is, if you�ll let me. I want to be a part of your life....and Jamie�s.� Unable to let her guard down just yet, Joey let her skepticism bubble forth. �Why now?� Michael shook his head, stepping a foot away from her. �I know what it�s like not knowing who your family is, and watching everyone else with theirs. As much as people take you into their homes, and love you as their own, it�s never quite the same. In the time that you and Jamie have stepped into our lives, I�ve been a whole new person. I�ve always wanted to have a family of my own, and now that it�s here I don�t want to lose it. I was so stupid before; self-centered. I forgot that I wasn�t the only one who had to deal with all of this pain. You�ve been dealing with this your whole life, and I can�t imagine how you�ve gone on without completely losing it.� He pointed to himself. �Me? I know for a few days and I completely flip out.� �It was a lot to take in, and I�m afraid I just dropped it on you like a bomb. That wasn�t fair of me.� He stepped even closer. �We both could�ve handled this another way, but we can�t change the past. We can only change how our future is going to turn out.� His eyebrow twitched as he offered her his hand. �Do you think you can give me a second chance, and let me be your son? Be Jamie�s brother?� Instead of taking his hand, Joey pulled Michael into her arms, letting her tears spill forth as she let her love for him pour through their embrace. �I�m so sorry, Michael.� His arms came around her, his voice softening to a whisper as he choked on his tears. �No more apologies.� She pulled back, smiling despite the tears trailing down her face. �No more apologies.� Maria watched silently in the background, her heart bursting at the sight in front of her. Michael had finally found his family, and she couldn�t be more happy for him. There was no one more deserving than him. Part 36 *************** �No....NO....NO!� With each preceding refusal, Liz�s voice raised an octave higher, earning a heavier edge as she fought off her assailant. She could feel his hot breath on her skin and all she could do was shudder violently. Her legs refused to move, feeling like dead weight as she fought in vain to escape his hurtful hands away. �Please don�t......please.....� Her voice came out in a choked whisper and all she could do was cower against him. The sound of his menacing laugh echoed in her ears, his grip tightening around her limbs. Max was jolted awake when Liz�s arms and legs kicked at his body, trying to get as far away from him. �Liz?� The frightened whimper coming from her throat drove a wedge in his heart, the stake driving deeper. She curled up into a fetal position, silent tears slipping from her eyes, her body wracked with sobs. Max sat up, his arms reaching to pull Liz into his embrace. He sat her in his lap, gently rocking her as he whispered in her ear, his lips brushing gentle kisses on her face. �Liz...baby, it�s okay....He�s not gonna hurt you anymore......I�m here.....I won�t ever leave you again.....� His hands brushed away her sweat soaked hair, his arms crushing her against him. �I�m here, Liz.....I�m here.� With consciousness settling in, Liz rubbed her fists against her sleep laden eyes. Surprised to feel wetness on them, she instantly became awake, finding her body curled up in Max�s. �Max?� Her voice was hoarse, her eyes squinting in the dark as she tried to focus on his face. Max cupped her face with his hands, his lips landing on hers in a kiss of reassurance. Not so much for her, but for him. He needed to know that she was fine. His fingers dug into the strands of her hair hanging on the side of her face, his nose breathing in a lungful of air, trying to soak her in. �What happened?� Liz still felt disoriented. Her body felt exhausted, and she had to wonder what had Max so upset. It was if he was trying to absorb her inside of him. �You�re okay now?� He had meant for it to come out as a statement, but rather, it came out as a question as he wasn�t really sure. He wasn�t about to take any chances with her. Not ever again. Her forehead brushed against his when she bobbed her head in response. �I think so...I just...I still don�t know what happened, though.� She looked down at her position, noticing for the first time how tangled their bodies were. They were stuck so close that not even a breath of air could pass between them. His amber eyes glowed in the darkness, a crinkle developing between his brows. �You don�t remember?� She shook her head in the negative, her molar biting down on her bottom lip. �Will you tell me?� His large hands trailed down her body, searching her for any injuries, his voice trembling as he spoke. �You had....you had a nightmare.� Before she could open her mouth to ask what it was about, he gulped, his thumb resting against the pulse point on her neck. �About him....� His voice took on a defeated tone, his eyes taking on a far away look. �I wasn�t there to save you.....again.� Liz�s head snapped up so fast that she almost bumped heads with Max. Her hands framed his face, her fingers working his tense jaw. �Max, don�t do this...you couldn�t have known.� �But I did.� He didn�t want to look in her eyes, feeling ashamed. �I felt it, Liz.� He held out his hands as if he could show her the physical proof. �Inside me. I knew something bad was going to happen, just like when Tess died. I knew something wasn�t right then, and I didn�t do anything.� He shook his head in frustration as his vision blurred with hot tears. He pushed Liz away from him, his legs staggering off the bed. �I got her killed, and I�m going to the same to you.� �Max.� He shut out the sound of anguish in her voice. If he didn�t he would crawl in the bed again and end up holding her in his arms. He really was going to be the death of her. His mind whirled around in a sea of confusion, his thoughts getting muddled. He needed to stay away. Everyone he loved ended up getting hurt. He took so much from them. As he looked at Liz, he saw their daughter and his stomach churned. What if he hurt her too? He couldn�t do that. He wouldn�t hurt them anymore, he didn�t want to. He stepped backwards blindly, needing so much to get away. To keep them safe. Liz watched with brimming eyes as Max tried to walk away from her. She had been through enough, and she wasn�t about to lose him. She jumped from the bed, hurtling herself at him. �Don�t you dare walk away from!� The shock of her reaction kept him rooted to the spot. He supposed he could peel her away from him and leave as he intended, but he couldn�t. He closed his eyes, trying one more time to pull away. �Liz please....� �Max Evans, you promised to be with me through sorrow and hardship.� She wiped away at her tears angrily. �Is this how you plan on honoring your vows?� She had meant for her question to come out angry, but all she resulted was a tormented sob. She beat her fists at his chest. �You promised to love, honor, and cherish, to comfort and to respect, in sorrow or in joy, in hardship or in plenty, so long as we both shall live.....you promised!� She repeated their marriage vows verbatim, wanting him to remember his pledge to her. Max grimaced against her blows, not so much from the physical pain, but the emotional one as she beat him with her words. His voice scratched against his throat as he spoke. �I�m only going to hurt you more if I stay..... I don�t want to lose you .....� She looked at him incredulously. �You don�t want to lose me, so you�re leaving me?� She gripped his shirt, balling up her fists against the cotton as she tried to shake some sense into him. �Can you even hear what you�re saying?� She didn�t let him get a chance to speak, wanting to get out everything first. �First of all, what happened tonight and what happened with Tess are two completely unrelated things. The only thing that they do have in common is that you had no control over it.� Her hands dropped her grip on his shirt, moving to touch his face. �You need to stop blaming yourself over everything that goes wrong in our lives.....You�re not God, Max.� He smiled sadly. �I know that. If I was, I could�ve stopped all of these terrible things from happening.� Her back stiffened. �So what are you saying? If you could�ve prevented Tess� death then, would you have? Because if that�s what you�re saying, then I guess you really should leave.� �What?� It was turn to be confused. His hand reached out to touch her shoulder, but she flinched away. �Saying that is saying that you wish you were never with me. Saying that, is saying that you don�t want our daughter.� �NO...Liz, that�s not...NO!� He couldn�t form a coherent sentence to make her understand that that�s not what he meant. �If you wish to erase the past, you�re obliterating everything we are. Our family would be no more...� She turned around to face him, looking into his eyes. �Is that what you want Max? Do you wish to have never met me? Do you wish there was no us?� �GOD NO!� He was openly sobbing now, falling to his knees. �I don�t want that. I only want what�s best for you,� he screeched out. She knelt before him, this time, gathering him in her arms. �Then don�t do this. Don�t leave us, and don�t blame yourself. You�re not to blame.� She wiped away his tears, her eyes pleading with him to understand. �Let me in, Max. Don�t shut me out.� His body shook against hers, both of them holding each other, afraid that the other might suddenly vanish into thin air. After moments of silence, Max gave her a tear streaked chuckle. �Isn�t that supposed to be my line?� Memories of when they had proposed to each other in high school surfaced, both of them remembering those exact same words slipping from Max�s lips as Liz proposed to him. Seeing that he was making an effort, Liz smiled back. �I told you, our relationship has always been less than traditional. If you can�t see straight, I�m bringing it upon myself to show you.� He sighed heavily, his head shaking from side to side as he looked at her in awe. �You�re stuck with me, Max Evans, and you�re gonna have to do a lot better than that to get rid of me.� Part 37 ***************** Max moved around the kitchen making breakfast, but he made sure to keep at least one eye watching Liz. He was almost afraid that she might vanish if he stopped looking. �I can see you watching me.� Liz�s voice held a teasing tone as she pulled down her blouse to nurse Leah who had began kicking in her arms. He fumbled, clanging the frying pan nervously against the stove. �S-sorry.� He turned his back away, trying his best to stop looking, but if he had thought it was difficult before, it was even more so now that she was breastfeeding. Seeing that was like seeing a miracle happening right before his eyes. �No more apologizing, Max. We�re through with all of that.� �Right.� His head jerked towards the refrigerator. �How did you want your eggs?� Liz smiled, feeling a little more at ease. True, it would be a while till they returned to their normal routines without having all of the dark looming over them, but they had come to a crossroads last night. Despite the tears and the hurt, she was sure they were going to come out of this stronger. Josh�s actions opened up a wormhole of buried insecurities that they had ignored for so long. But in a way, it was a good thing. They were finally dealing with all of this and not skirting around the issue. Liz knew that she had reached Max last night and today was a beginning of a better day. �I sort of have a hankering for sunny side up.� The meaning wasn�t lost on him, finally allowing himself to smile. �Sunny side up it is.� He cracked two eggs into the hot pan, tilting his head towards the stairs. �NOAH! Breakfast is almost ready, little man.� Loud, thundering footsteps echoed down the stairs, the sound of little feet screeching against the kitchen tile. Noah stepped lightly, trying to keep from making too much noise. Kyle and Courtney had told him that his mother was feeling too well and he didn�t want to add to her discomfort. He walked to her slowly, his curious head tilted to the side, his hand touching her knee softly. �Mornin� momma.� He stood on his tiptoes, giving Liz a kiss against her cheek. His eyes darted to his father who was busy manning the stove. He leaned in closer to Liz, whispering so that only she could hear. �Are you okay now?� Her heart doubled over with love, her lips curling into an unconscious smile. It was still hard to believe that he loved her so much. She dipped her fingers into the softness of his hair, her brown eyes softening. �I�m alright now, precious.� She leaned down, placing a tender kiss on his head. �Thank you for asking.� He squeezed her hand, before smiling down at his sister. He touched the tip of her button nose, smiling when she gave him a toothless grin. �Be good for momma, Lee lee.� Even as he said the words, Noah couldn�t help but look at his mother, making sure that she really was okay. Liz�s eyes met up with Noah�s, seeing the concern in them. He was definitely his father�s son. Max looked over his shoulder, getting ready to plate Liz�s eggs. �How do you want your eggs, pal?� He smiled at his mother, making himself comfortable at the kitchen table. �I�ll have whatever momma�s having.� **************** After breakfast, Liz took Leah upstairs for her bath, leaving her boys to clean up after their breakfast. Max rinsed the dishes while Noah passed them to him. They had been silent for the most part, save the few glances Noah kept throwing towards Max when he thought he wasn�t looking. Finally feeling like a caged animal, Max wiped his hands against a dish rag. �What�s up?� Noah shrugged his shoulders, tracing a pattern against the placemats. �Nuthin�.� Unconvinced, Max kneeled, scooping Noah up in his arms, depositing him on the counter. He gave a little grunt, ruffling his son�s hair. �You�re getting too heavy for your old man.� He pulled up a chair, straddling it backwards, leaning his chin against it as he studied his son�s face. �What�s the matter? You�re never this quiet,� he teased. Slipping from the smooth counter top, Noah threw himself in Max�s arms, breathing deeply. �Hey�.� Startled by his movement, Max stumbled back a bit. He pulled Noah to sit on his lap, his large hand running down Noah�s small back soothingly. �It�s okay, little man. It�s okay.� Noah gripped his arms around Max�s neck, his eyes shut tightly. �I love you daddy.� Max smiled, peering down at his son who seemingly wanted to disappear inside him. �I love you too, buddy.� He tipped Noah�s chin up, making him look into his eyes. �Not that I don�t appreciate the affection, but what�s spurred this on?� His eyes narrowed playfully. �You usually reserve all of the really good hugs for your momma.� �It�s because of momma.� He touched Max�s cheek with his palm, smiling the exact replica of Max�s half grin. �You healed her.� He placed his other hand against his chest. �In here.� He kissed Max�s cheek, sliding out of his lap. �Thank you.� Noah left his father stunned speechless. Max swallowed hard, looking towards the stairs where his family was. He was a blessed man for having a family who loved him despite his faults. ************** �I�m just going to jump in the shower for a minute. Noah�s in his room, playing with his toys. If you could just watch Leah- Max pulled Liz into his body, his lips nuzzling her forehead. �Go. We�ll be fine.� His fingers curled into her hair as he ushered her to their bathroom. �If you need anything- She placed her finger to his lips, then replacing it with her lips. �I know. I�ll be back soon.� Max waited until she was gone before taking Leah into his arms. He sat in the rocking chair that was strategically placed by the window. �How you doin� puddin�?� Max chuckled when she kicked her feet in the air, her little fingers curling around his index finger. She gurgled, cocking her head to the side as she continued grinning at her father. �You look exactly like your mother. So beautiful.� He sighed, pressing his nose against her cheek as he inhaled her sweet baby scent. �You think you can stay like this forever? So I can keep you safe?� Leah�s head jerked to the side as Max tickled her under the chin. �No?�.I didn�t think so.� He cradled her against his chest, letting the chair rock them back and forth. �I love you so much, baby. You, your brother, and especially your momma. You guys mean the world to me. If I lost any of you�.� He choked back a sob, feeling sick at the thought of losing his family. He didn�t even know why he was saying these things, but he always felt better talking to Leah about things. Maybe it had to do with the fact that she couldn�t respond yet, that she couldn�t judge him. He felt he could tell her anything. �I know that I worry too much, and that I can�t control everything that goes on, but I can�t help but feel responsible. This family is my life. My responsibility. If I can�t take care of you guys, then what kind of a person does that make me? What kind of a father�husband?� He looked down into Leah�s eyes; into Liz�s eyes. �Promise me that when you grow up, that you�ll be like your mother and not take any of my crap?� He grinned. �I�m definitely a pushover with a stubbornness that�ll drive you up the wall, but it�s only because I love you sweetheart. It�s only cause I love you.� *************** Liz leaned back against the door, her hand gripping the edges of her robe. She had come back to ask Max if he could grab one of the clean towels from the overhead cabinets when she heard him talking to Leah. She knew that she should have left, knowing that his conversation was private, but she couldn�t help but press her ear against the wall, listening to the soft murmur of his voice. She kissed the tips of her fingers, placing them against the door, her voice a soft whisper. �We love you too Max. We love you too.� Part 38A ****************** Maria stepped out of her bedroom, throwing the strap of her purse over her shoulder. �Michael, I�m ready. Let�s go!� She stopped a foot away from the living room, her jaw dropping to the floor as she took in the disarray of their living room. It looked like a toy store had thrown up in there. �What�s all of this?� Michael sat up, absently scratching his head. �Toys.� He walked around, picking up different boxes, studying the contents. �I think I got that part.� She crossed her arms, fighting to keep the smile from her lips. �What�s this stuff doing here? Last time I checked, we didn�t have any kids.� She held her hand to her mouth, pretending to be shocked as she gasped. �Unless you got me pregnant and you didn�t tell me?� �Yeah.� He was so deep in his thoughts that he didn�t realize what she had said, until after a few minutes. His eyes flew up to her laughing ones, making a face. �Ever think about working at a comedy club instead of the restaurant?� She walked up to him, giving him a full body hug. �Aww�you know I was only kidding.� She winked at him. �You sort of set yourself up.� She looked at the toys again, once again asking her question. �But really, what�s with all of the toys? Christmas isn�t for another five months.� He breathed heavily. �I was thinking that maybe I could get Jamie something, you know, to soften the blow about me being her brother.� Maria shook her head, cupping Michael�s face between her hands. �Michael, you don�t need gifts to butter up your little sister. She already loves you as a friend. Do you realize how excited she�s going to be when she finds out that you�re her older brother too?� Feeling a slight ego boost, Michael grinned. �We are good friends.� �And you�ll make an even better brother and sister.� She kissed the tip of his nose, disentangling herself from his embrace. �Now go and pick a toy and let�s get out of here.� Michael�s eyes narrowed suspiciously. �I thought you said that she would like me even without the toys?� Resisting the urge to roll her eyes at his defensiveness, she just smiled, thinking it was cute that he was worried about how a five year old was going to accept him. �She will, but the toy will be like icing on the cake.� His smile returned, his body bending down as he picked up a Barbie. He walked to Maria, but she pushed her hand against his chest. �What are you doing?� Exasperated, Michael held it out to her. �Getting a toy, just like you told me to.� Sometimes, he wondered how Maria�s mind worked. They�d been together forever, but her mind was something he had yet to understand. �Michael, Michael, Michael.� She took the Barbie from him, grabbing an action figure instead. �Jamie happens to be my sister�s best friend, and honestly, have you ever seen my sister with a doll in her hand that doesn�t look mutilated?� He shook his head, trying to reach for the action figure out of her hand. �Uh�actually�.um, that one�s for me.� He picked up a monster truck, instead, smiling sheepishly as he stuck the action figure into his pocket. When she raised an eyebrow at him, clearly trying to keep from laughing at him, he cleared his throat, grabbing his keys. �I think maybe we should go.� ************ Isabel peered over her list, looking over at Alex at his lap top. �Ready?� He held up his hand, waiting for the paper to roll through the printer. �Just a second.� He pulled the paper out, plopping down in front of Isabel, a smile on his lips. �You first.� �Okay!� She said excitedly, not bothering to pretend she was calm. Her eyes scanned down the list. Five boys names, and five girl�s names. �Okay, I�ll read my list according to preference.� She giggled excitedly. �For boys, Nathan, Matthew, Tyler, Austin, and Gabriel.� She paused to give Alex her thousand dollar smile. �For girls, Taylor, Hannah, Olivia, Morgan,� she leaned over, kissing his cheek. �And Alexandra.� A goofy grin plastered itself to his face as the meaning of the last name settled with him. He cleared his throat, letting off the same excited energy. �My turn.� He smoothed out the paper in his hands, reading off his list. �For boys, Gabriel, Jason, James, Andrew, and Joseph.� He squeezed her hand. �For girls, Kayla, Elizabeth, Maria, Isabella, Natalie.� He looked up at her, speaking quickly. �Of course, not in any specific order.� They exchanged lists, looking over the names that they had narrowed it down to. Both of them came to realize that they had both chosen the name Gabriel. �So I guess Gabriel is definitely a keeper.� Alex nodded, his hand rubbing her round belly. �Yeah, I think little Gabe will like his name. Huh, pal?� Isabel smirked, crossing her arms over her chest as much as she could without her arms running to her stomach. �What makes you so sure that our baby�s a boy.� He flashed her his pearly whites, kissing her tummy. �Same way Max knew that Leah was a girl.� He lifted his hand from behind his back, showing her his crossed fingers. �Sortof hoping and praying really hard.� Laughing, Isabel bent down, talking to her stomach. �You hear that, baby? Daddy wants you to be a boy.� She chuckled some more. �But even if you turn out to be a girl, we�ll still love you. We�ll just have to call you Gabrielle instead.� The baby kicked against her belly, almost as if joining in on his parents� conversation. �We have a winner!� Alex stood up, pulling Isabel with him. He kept her close, swaying to the cool air around them. ************* Kyle watched as the boys colored in the family room, his eyes darting to the bathroom every few seconds. Courtney had been in there for a while, and he was beginning to get worried. Unable to keep himself from fidgeting, he walked to the bathroom door, leaning his back against it as he tapped his knuckles against the wooden frame. �Everything okay, Court?� �I�ll be out in a second.� With a trembling hand, Courtney picked up the white stick. Two lines = you�re pregnant. One line = you�re not pregnant. She stared at the stick, the two lines almost mocking her. With a shaky breath, she stuffed the stick back into the box, hiding the contents in the back of the cabinet where she was sure Kyle wouldn�t look. She could barely believe it. How could this have happened? They were so careful��well, most of the time. She slapped her forehead, trying to think of a way to make sense of all of this. Inside, her heart was doing the happy dance, glad that she and Kyle had finally created a life of their own, but her mind was sick with worry over the thought of taking care of the twins with another baby on the way. Turning on the faucet, she splashed some cool water on her face, deciding to make an appointment with her gynecologist before telling Kyle anything. She wanted to be 100% sure before she got him all wired up. �Court?� Kyle knocked again, smiling when she opened the door. �I�m right here.� *************** �Liz, whatever it is, you know you can tell me.� Max placed his hand reassuringly on her knee, smiling at her encouragingly. She smiled back, swallowing thickly. �Okay�.Well, it�s almost the end of summer, and before any of this�.before any of this happened�� she paused, taking a deep breath. �I had this all planned out, and I still really want to go.� She pulled out airplane tickets, laying them on the coffee table. Max picked them up, looking at the destination. California. He stood up, raking a hand through his head, his feet picking up a pace. �Liz, I don�t know.� She was quick to stand up, following his movements. �Look, we haven�t done anything as a family in a while, and this way, we�ll all be together. And plus, the tickets are non-refundable.� He raised an eyebrow at her, stopping his movements to cross his arms. �I still- �Noah�s been wanting to see Mac again, and this will be a perfect opportunity for him to do that.� When he still looked ready to refuse, she batted her long eyelashes at him, her lips curling into a pout. �And besides, don�t you wanna take me and your daughter on their first trip to Disneyland?� Max was trying not to give in, still thinking that Liz should take it easy, but she was making it really hard to say no. Not that he ever could say no. �Please?� she whined. �Don�t you wanna buy her those cute Mickey ears to put on her little bald head?� she joked. He shook his head, losing the battle of keeping the smile from her face. He pulled her close, kissing her forehead. �Our daughter�s not bald. Her hair just happens to be very fine,� he said matter-of-factly. He couldn�t stand the thought of anyone saying bad things about his daughter, even if it was just his wife making a joke. He twined his fingers in Liz�s hair, breathing deeply. �You�ll see, when she grows up, she�ll have hair like you.� His amber eyes twinkled. �But for now, I guess we could cover her head with Mickey ears.� Liz�s doe eyes were wide with excitement. �Is that a yes?� With a slight nod of his head, Liz kissed the tip of his nose, running up the stairs to the kids, yelling at the top of her voice. �KIDS, WE�RE GOING TO DISNEYLAND!� Max shook his head, loving how excited Liz was. He wanted so much to keep her locked up, and keep her safe, but he knew that was ridiculous. Maybe this trip was a good thing. It would give them a chance to be together as a family, and maybe he could finally bury some of his old demons. Part 38B ***************** �Thanks for coming.� Joey smiled, pulling the door open to let Michael and Maria inside. Maria touched Joey�s arm gently, her eyes full of apology. �Sorry we�re late. Michael was having a little crisis.� Joey�s smile faltered a little, looking to Michael worriedly. �Is everything alright?� Michael was too busy with his own nervousness, that he didn�t even hear them talking about him. �Where�s Jamie?� �In the living room.� He nodded once, leaving to go in search of his sister. �Don�t mind him. He�s just worried about being a good older brother.� Maria tried to ease Joey�s apprehension, knowing that this was all new for them. �He doesn�t have to worry. He�s already been great with her.� ******************* Michael held the toy truck in his hands, clutching it to his chest as he tried to take deep and even breaths. Seeing Jamie sitting on the floor watching tv made him even more nervous. Her acceptance of him meant a great deal to him. He didn�t know what he would do if he disappointed her. �Hey.� Jamie�s eyes lit up, her head turning to see Michael by the foot of the couch. �Michael!� She ran to him, her arms hugging his legs. He couldn�t help the smile that formed on his lips as she squeezed him tight. He brought his hand down to her hair, patting her head gently. �This is nice.� �I�m glad you�re here.� She pulled away, chewing on her bottom lip. Her hand clutched at his pants leg, asking him to bend down to her level. �Can you keep a secret?� Michael put the truck down, leaning in closer to let Jamie whisper in his ear. �I�m supposed ta meet my big brotha today.� He felt his heart lurch at the sad look on her face. �Do you not want to meet him?� She sighed heavily, looking down at her tiny feet. �I do. I�ve waiting a long time.� �Then what�s the matter?� He tipped her chin, looking into eyes that were almost the mirror image of his. �What if he doesn�t like me, Michael?� She sank to her bottom, leaning her elbows on her knees, her chin resting on her palms. �Maybe he don�t want a little sister.� Michael�s fears were put at rest, hearing Jamie�s own troubles. He figured it was a two way street, and he wasn�t the only one who was worried about this meeting. It gave him a better outlook on things, knowing that he would make sure that Jamie knew she had a big brother that would always love her. And a big sister in Maria if she wanted. He sat down beside her, gingerly picking her up to sit in his lap. �What if I told you, that your older brother was worried about you liking him?� Confused, Jamie tilted her head to the side, studying Michael curiously. �Why?� �Maybe, the two of you are worried because you already care about each other so much.� His voice turned a notch softer, almost sounding like a whisper. Jamie reached out to touch his hand, placing the palm of her hand in his much larger one. �Stay here wit me, Michael? Till he comes ta see me?� A slow smile crawled over his lips, his head bobbing up and down. He took a deep breath, wanting to ease both of their worries. �What if I said I was your older brother?� Her eyes narrowed cautiously, her voice timid. �Are you?� He nodded slowly, his eyes closing involuntarily. He really didn�t want to see the look on her face if she was disappointed in the answer. Disappointed in having him as an older brother. The breath was knocked out of him as he felt Jamie climb further into his lap, her short arms wrapping around his neck. She placed a sweet kiss on his cheek, squeezing the life out of him. �This is sooo cool. Jade and I can sorta be sistas,� she said excitedly. Michael laughed, not at all taking offense to what she had said. Her quick acceptance of him made any past insecurities he had about himself whither away into the depths of the black hole that had loomed over his adolescence. He looked up to see Maria, his wife, standing with Joey, his mother. He looked down into the small bundle in his arms, his little sister. He finally had his family. Jostled out of his mushy thoughts, Jamie poked his shoulder gently. �Is that for me?� She pointed to the toy truck sitting a few inches from them. He nodded eagerly, placing it in her small hands. �I got is just for you....sis.� The smile on her face was enough to light a Christmas tree, sending a tingling warmth all the way down to his toes. His smile grew wider as she gave him another quick peck on the cheek, running to their mother to show what her big brother had gotten her. Maria sat down beside Michael, her head resting on his shoulder. �You�re a great older brother Michael. You�ve been one to my little sister, and now you�ll be an even better one with your own.� He kissed the top of her head, nodding lightly. �I can only hope so, blondie.� **************** �Are you sure that going away is such a good idea. I mean, after everything that�s happened?� Phillip looked at his son who was seated across from him, his hand rubbing his chin. Max closed his eyes, clenching and unclenching his fists. �Believe me, I don�t want to go off and pretend like none of this happened.� His eyes opened, and Phillip could see happy tears glistening in Max�s eyes. �But you should�ve seen how excited she was, dad. Everything�s been so messed up lately. I just.....I want to give her this.� Smiling down at his son, Phillip placed his hand encouragingly on Max�s shoulder. �It�s your call, Max. They�re your family. You know what�s best for them.� �Thanks for understanding.� Max swallowed thickly, his breath whooshing out of his body. He had come to talk to his father, seeking his approval. He had done some things in his life that he wished he could have done differently, and it made him sick with worry that his father would somehow think lesser of him. �You�re a great father, Max. And an even better husband. You�re doing great.� Phillip�s words were exactly what Max needed to hear. The two of them hugged quickly, before Phillip whipped out the camcorder. Max eyed him curiously, holding it in his hands. �What�s this?� Phillip smiled sheepishly. �It�s for me and your mom.� He cleared his throat. �Well, more for your mom, actually,� he lied playfully. �We were hoping you could give us old fogies some Disneyland footage of the grandkids.� They laughed together, looking from the kitchen opening to see Liz and the kids with Diane. Just then, the door burst open with Isabel speaking a mile a minute, rambling about having finally found the perfect baby name. She was absolutely glowing. Alex kissed Diane on the cheek, giving his niece and nephew quick hugs before settling down beside Liz. He hugged her tightly, whispering something in her ear that elicited a huge smile on her lips. He kissed her temple, hugging her again. Max�s heart grew to bursting proportions, seeing how much love and support they all had. He was glad that Liz had people who cared about her so much. Alex made his way over to the Evans men, tipping his head in greeting. �Max....Dad.� He slipped his hand into his pocket, pulling out a couple of twenties and shoving them into Max�s hand. �What�s this?� Max scratched the side of his head, wondering why Alex had just slipped him a wad of bills. Pointing to his ears, Alex�s eyes were wide with excitement. �I was hoping you could get the baby a set of Mickey ears as well. And some Winnie the Pooh for Isabel. That�s the theme she�s chosen for the nursery.� Max laughed, putting the money in his pocket. �Anything else you�d like to request?� Clapping him on the shoulder, Alex gave Max his patented Whitman grin. �Nope. That about covers it.� ******************* �Where did you say it was?� Kyle was rummaging through the medicine cabinet, looking for the children�s Tylenol. Damian had been struck with a little fever and he had been instructed to find the medicine while Courtney tended to the little guy. �It�s in there somewhere. Try the drawers.� Courtney�s voice carried down the hall as Kyle continued to search. Almost ready to give up, Kyle sank to his knees, opening up the cabinet beneath the sink. He didn�t find the children�s Tylenol, but he did find something that made his stomach turn in excited anticipation. He held the white stick in his hands, trying to keep from passing out. A baby. Maybe a little sister for the boys, or a baby brother. His mind was a whirlwind of exciting possibilities. �What�s taking so long?� Courtney walked into the bathroom, a loud gasp escaping her lips as she saw Kyle holding her pregnancy test. Clutching the door, she fell in a heap on the bathroom rug. �COURTNEY?!?� Part 38C ******************* "Maaaxxxx!" Liz tilted her head to the side as she hollered out to Max. She propped herself onto the overflowing suitcase, trying to get the thing closed but with no such luck. Max ran as fast as he could with Leah in his arms, his face flushed as he tried to catch his breath. "Where�s the fire?" "Not funny!" Folding her arms over her chest, Liz stuck out her bottom lip, batting her long eyelashes. "I need help. I can�t close this." She wiggled against the suitcase, hoping that the contents wouldn�t erupt. Shaking his head, Max placed Leah in her basinet. He walked over to Liz, cupping her face between his hands. "What is all of this stuff, anyway?" "Its our stuff. For our trip. You know how I hate to pack last minute." He placed a sweet kiss on her forehead, letting his lips drag lovingly to her nose until they were staring into each others eyes. He gave her a quick peck before sliding her off the suitcase. He lifted the zip open, trying his hardest not to laugh. "Liz, sweetie, I don�t think you�re going to need all of these clothes." He reached in, pulling out one of her wooly sweaters. Scratching the side of his head, he held it up for the two of them to see. His voice softened a notch, trying to get her to see reason. "Its going to be pretty warm out there just like it is out here. These sweaters are just too bulky." When a crease began forming between her brows, he stepped up to her, his finger gently massaging it away. "And besides, don�t you want to have more room to put souvenirs in?" He knew the minute she acquiesced because she began nuzzling the skin on his neck. She pulled away just enough to look at his face, a slightly embarrassed look on her face. �Guess you can tell that the farthest I�ve been in my life has probably Albuquerque, huh?� With his heart dropping to his stomach, Max caressed her cheek softly, his thoughts remembering the time she had told him all of her dreams. All of which contained leaving Roswell to see the world. He couldn�t help but feel responsible that part of her dreams had not been met because he tied her down at such a young age. Immediately sensing his thoughts and emotions, Liz placed her finger to Max�s lips, smiling at him through a shiny film of tears. �Don�t even think it, Max. I am where I am now, because this is what I wanted. I wouldn�t change a thing.� She didn�t want him to think that she had any regrets, because she didn�t. So she hadn�t gone to Harvard and become head of the molecular biology department. Big deal. It wasn�t something to be crying about. She had a wonderful job, a college education, a beautiful family and an even greater extended family. Somehow, she didn�t think that her life would have been nearly as happy had she gone the path of Harvard. Sure, she would�ve accomplished what she had dreamed about as a child, but the happiness she was so deeply immersed in now didn�t seem to fit that picture. She had a feeling that her ties to her friends and family would�ve been lost along the way and she would have forgotten the most important thing of all. That none of it was worth it if you didn�t have loved ones to share it with. �You�re amazing, you know that?� His voice cracked a little, his eyes staring at her beautiful face in wonder. �Not half as amazing as you.� She finished her kiss with an amorous kiss, wanting him to feel everything that she was feeling. Before the kiss could get good, Leah started crying, her little whimpers echoing in the master bedroom. Laughing, Liz leaned her forehead against Max�s. �Sounds like someone�s jealous.� He laughed with her, and Liz felt her heart swell. She hadn�t heard his laugh in awhile, that it turned her into a puddle of mush. �Why don�t you go see what our little princess wants, and I�ll see about getting rid of these sweaters?� Max just nodded, bringing Liz�s body to his for a hug. Smiling, Liz reveled in the security and love she felt in his arms. �Hey, what�s this for?� �Because I love you,� he answered simply. He gave her one last kiss before tending to their daughter. Liz took a minute to silently watch Max. She must have died and gone to heaven, because Max Evans was an angel. His beauty inside and out continued to amaze her. �Max?� �Hmmm?� He held Leah against his chest, his large hand cradling her head. He nuzzled his cheek against the softness of her skin, his eyes looking up to meet Liz�s gaze. �I love you too.� They shared a heartfelt glance, both smiling at one another. ***************** Kyle held Courtney in his arms, crooning softly in her ear as she continued crying. After she had fainted in the bathroom, he took her into the bedroom, eventually waking her up. That had been a half hour ago and she still hadn�t said a word. It broke his heart to see her in tears. It was like someone was ripping his chest open, squeezing his heart tightly until there was no more give. �Court, what�s going on?� He couldn�t keep his voice from catching a little as he spoke, his chest hiccupping as he took a breath. �I�m so sorry, Kyle.� She buried her face into his shoulder, her tears soaking his skin. Placing his hand under her chin, Kyle tilted her face so that they were looking into each other�s eyes. �What are you sorry about?� Wringing her hands, Courtney felt her bottom lip tremble as she tried to explain. �I didn�t want you to find out this way.� Kyle felt his Adam�s apple bob up and down furiously. He didn�t want to get his hopes up, but it was hard not to. �So you�re pregnant.� �Yes�I mean, I don�t know.� With shaky hands, Courtney drew her fingers through her hair. �I took the test, and it came out positive, and I seem to have all of the symptoms, but�.� �But what?� He took her hands in his, keeping them warm. �I�m just scared, Kyle.� She met his blue eyes filled with concern for her. �I think deep down, I know that I am, but I just don�t know how we�re going to get through this.� A smile spread across his face and he couldn�t help the twinkle in his eyes. She was practically confirming that they were about to become biological parents, that it made his heart thump wildly in his chest. �There�s nothing to worry about, Court.� She bit her lip, not wanting her excitement let her lose sight of her major concerns. �But do you realize how tough it�s going to be to have a new baby and taking care of the boys?� �So what if it�s tough? Lots of people do it all of the time. The only difference is, this baby is going to have a lot of people that�s going to love it and care for it.� He placed his hand over her flat tummy, his eyes wide with awe. �Do you know how great it�s going to be for the boys to have a little brother or sister?� Courtney�s eyes burned with fresh tears as she listened to Kyle speak. �Did I say something wrong?� He frowned as he watched her eyes tear up again. She shook her head, her hand running up to his jaw. �No�.I just, the way you talk about the boys, like they were your own,� She stopped momentarily to regain her composure. �Kyle, you�ve taken them in and you�ve treated them like they were your own.� She swallowed hard. �I don�t think I can ever thank you enough for that.� He shook his head, bringing her palm to his lips for a kiss. �You don�t need to thank me. The truth is, I do think of them as my sons, now. Even though you didn�t give birth to them, and I didn�t father them, they will always be our kids.� He heaved a heavy sigh. �I still feel awful that what happened to Carrie and Chris happened. But they�ve given us this wonderful gift��� He cupped her cheek, smiling despite his tears. �They would be so proud of you, Court. You would�ve made Carrie so happy. And you know if she were still here, she would tell you that it would be okay, and that things would work out.� �We�re going to get through this. Trust me.� He brought her closer to him, wanting to feel her. She inhaled him, closing her eyes as she felt a calm wash over her. �I do�.I trust you.� Back Next |