Title: Changes
Author: Lori 
Email: Gussywussy55@y...
Category: Michael/Isabel
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: The WB owns them. 
Summary: Isabel and Michael are in for a surprise and
changes.
Feedback:Yes please,good or bad.
Dedicated to Luv, because she encourages me and is
such an awesome writer!


**********

Isabel grabbed her leather skirt and vest, and began
to put them on. She looked at herself in the mirror,
and saw the slight pooch in the tummy and frowned. The
skirt was a little tight. Had she been eating that
much? Well the vest would cover it. She was wearing it
as a top, but it would still cover her weight gain.
She frowned again as she put the vest on. What the?
Her breasts which were always large, threatened to
spill out of the top. It had fit fine the last time
she wore it. 
A knock on the door gained her attention.
Max entered and stopped short at the sight of Isabel
in the snug, but sexy outfit.
"Please tell me you're not wearing that out? Mom would
never let you leave in that you know."
"I don't understand it Max. It fit me the last time I
wore it. I guess I've been eating more than I should.
Time to diet," Isabel said still frowing at herself in
the mirror, her hand running over the pooch.
Max came in and looked at her.
"I haven't noticed you eating anymore, in fact I
thought you were eating a little less. Whatever it is,
you can't wear that out. If your....uh...came out," he
pointing a wagging finger at her breasts," well you
just can't wear that."
Turning to leave he added, "Tess ,Kyle, and Liz are
here. We're just waiting on Michael...and you ."

I'll be right down," said Isabel absently as Max left.
She was walking to her closet when her window opened
up , and Michael came in eyeing her up and down , and
whistling.
"Hey sexy! I like what you have on , but I hope you're
not wearing it tonight. I'd hate to fight off all of
the guys," said Michael looking at Isabel
apprecatively.
Isabel gave Michael a quick kiss ,and then turned
towards her closet, throwing clothes left and right
trying to find something decent to wear.
"I was going to wear it, but I guess I've gained
weight. What are you doing coming here like that right
now Michael? What if someone saw you? "
Michael sat on her bed ,and watched as Isabel began to
change into loose pants ,and a pull over sleeveless
sweater that was cut in a 'V'. He could tell she
wasn't happy with what she had settled on, but left it
on anyways. Everything had to be perfect with her, he
thought grinning. 
"I made sure no one saw me. Hey, are we going to go to
my place after everyone else leaves, or are we going
to come here?"
"I don't know Michael, Max is getting suspicious. He
started checking on me after we were here last time. I
guess we were to noisy.Maybe we should cool it for
awhile,"Isabel replied as she put on her flats. 
Michael got up and went to Isabel, taking her in his
arms.
"Hey, we can go to my place after Max does his little
bed check. I just want to be with you. Have you all to
myself, you know."
Isabel leaned back against him ,enjoying the feel of
his arms around her,and closed her eyes. 
"I'll try Michael, but I can't make any promises,
okay?"
Michael kissed her head, then laid his chin on her
shoulder. 
"Yeah,okay," he sighed into her neck.

*******

"Why are clubs always so loud?" yelled Tess to Isabel.
"So they can make you deaf," replied Isabel just as
loud, her body hot all over, her head beginning to
spin.
They made their way to the ladies room with Liz in tow
and found it some what quieter.
"You guys, this has been so much fun!" said Liz all
pumped up with energy.
"Yeah, well you can settle down now some 'Miss
Excitement', some of us are tired and have a
headache," replied Tess sitting on one of the few
chairs in the restroom.
"Kyle seems to be having fun Tess," remarked Liz as
she freshened her lip gloss.
Tess looked at Liz and nodded , a smile appearing on
her face.
"Yeah,'Budda Boy' sure can party. He's a real party
animal."
"I'm going back out to Max, see you two later," said
Liz as she popped her lips together and left the room.

Tess turned to Isabel and found the girl with her head
down between her legs.
"Isabel, what's wrong?" asked Tess as she hurried to
Isabel's side.
"I don't know. I suddenly got dizzy and had to sit
down. I thought it might help to put my head between
my legs...I read that somewhere anyway," said Isabel
as she slowly sat up.
"Oh God, Isabel, you're white as a sheet and
perspiring like crazy! Let me get you a wet paper
towel," exclaimed Tess as she rushed to get the towel.
Isabel leaned back and swallowed. She took the wet
paper towel that Tess offered her and dabbed at her
face and neck.
"I don't understand it. I was fine , and then wham!"
said Isabel.
Tess drew a chair up beside Isabel and pushed the
other girl's hair from her face.
"Your color is coming back. Are you feeling better?"
"Yeah, thanks Tess," said Isabel softly.
"When did all of this start. Was this the first time?
asked Tess. "Maybe you ate something bad."
"Yeah it's the first time, and I didn't eat anything
that everyone else didn't eat. I have been gaining
weight though, so my clothes are tight. Maybe that's
the problem," replied Isabel."That and the loud,
overcrowded club."
Tess sat up , and said ,"That's probably it, you got
to hot in the club." She began to laugh as she said,
"Isabel, don't get mad , but you for a minute there
you sounded like you were having pregnancy symptoms. 
Isabel stilled as Tess said this.
Oh my God! No. It couldn't be, thought Isabel
fearfully.
Tess looked at Isabel and got a bad feeling in the pit
of her stomach at the other's expression.
"But that's ridiculous right?....you've never had,
...uh...you're not... no of course not," she laughed
weakly. "That's not it....right? ....Right?Isabel?"
she asked nervously.
She looked at Isabel's pale face. 
"Isabel? Isabel, are you pregnant?" whispered a
shocked Tess.
Isabel slowly turned teary eyes to Tess. 
Pregnant! Oh my God! She had never thought of that
possibility.
"Tess...I don't know...I never thought..." said
Isabel.
Tess searched Isabel's eyes.
"Isabel, who is the father? You'll have to tell him."
Isabel mentally shook herself. 
Michael. How would Michael react to a baby? Maybe it
wasn't true.
"I need to find out if it's true Tess. I need to take
a test before I do or say anything else," said Isabel.
"Do you want me to go with you to buy one?" asked
Tess.
Isabel looked at the smaller girl and smiled
gratefully. 
"Yes, I would. But how do I get it? We're with a group
of people, and one of them is my nosey brother. I need
to get it without causing suspicion."
"Let me get it then, and I'll bring it to you," said
Tess. Then she asked,"Will a human test work on us? We
are part human, but will it work on the alien half?"
Isabel had not thought of that.
"I guess I'll just have to take one, and see what it
says," said Isabel.
"We better get back before they hunt us down," said
Tess. 
"Yeah, I guess you're right," said Isabel standing up
on shaky legs.
"Isabel? It's going to be okay," said Tess, hugging
the taller girl to her.
Isabel nodded as she tried to believe that herself.

********

"We thought we would have to send Liz back in for you
two," said Kyle as he put his arm around Tess.
"Yeah, what took so long? Liz said it wasn't that
crowded," said Max.
Michael watched Isabel as she and Tess exchanged
looks.
Isabel was acting differently and it wasn't good.
"Is everything okay?" he asked.
Isabel looked Michael and nodded.
"Yeah, we were just talking and lost track of time,"
she said.
"Let's dance some more Max!" said Liz, pulling Max out
on the dance floor.
Kyle turned to Tess and said, "I'm in the mood to
dance to Tess. How about it?"
Tess looked at Kyle's proferred hand, and then at
Isabel.
"Will you be okay?" she mouthed to the other girl.
Isabel nodded, and Tess took Kyle's hand and went out
to dance with him.
Michael looked at Isabel thoughtfully. He had seen the
way she and Tess had had a little communication thing
going on.
Something wasn't right.

"Hey, uh Isabel, you want to sit this one out?" he
asked her, seeing how distracted she was.
Isabel raised her eyes to Michael's and nodded
gratefully.
They found seats near the wall and watched the others
dance. Michael went and got them both Cokes, and they
sat sipping them quietly. 
Finally Michael asked,"Isabel, are you mad at me?"
Isabel turned stunned eyes to Michael and touched his
hand. "No Michael, why would you think that?"
Michael studied their entwined hands ,and caressed
Isabel's with his thumb.
"You've been acting strange all evening. I just
thought maybe I had done something to piss you off."
Isabel looked towards the dance floor and then back at
Michael, touching his face gently with her hand.
"I'm not mad at you Michael, I love you, you know
that. I'm just ...not feeling very well is all. Maybe
I just need to go home," she said . But she thought ,I
may be pregnant, how will you take that? 
She removed her hand from Michael's before the others
saw it.
Michael noticed how she touched him only when others
weren't looking. They had agreed to wait to tell the
others about them until they graduated in a few
months. To the others they were both just friends that
had no significant others, so they hung out together.
They both felt that Max was going to blow a fuse about
them, but hopefully it would be a short one.

Michael placed his hand on her leg under the table and
looked at her eyes. She did look tired. He was worried
about her. She never got sick. Maybe they should tell
Max.
"Isabel, maybe we need to tell Max you're not feeling
well..."
"NO!" she interrupted quickly.
Michael was surprised at Isabel's reaction.
"Why not? You are never sick. This may be serious ,
and maybe he can help," said Michael anxiously.
Isabel shook her head adamently. "No Michael! You'll
only make things worse, just let me handle this."
Michael sat back ,and crossed his arms. What the hell
was going on with her? He wouldn't push it, he didn't
want to upset her, and make her feel worse, but he
sure wished he knew what was making her ill.
"Michael, I'd really like to go home now. Would you
take me?" asked Isabel fighting the urge to give into
to panic.
Michael nodded and stood up. Isabel went to stand and
lost her balance for a minute in a wave of dizzines.
She grabbed at the table and sat back down.
"Isabel! What happened?" asked Michael as he kneeled
near her chair.
Isabel gave a small laugh as she said,"I stood up to
quickly ,and I lost my balance. I feel so silly. I'm
okay, let's just go."
Michael helped her to stand,but he didn't believe the
story about her just losing her balance. For now he
would respect her wishes, while keeping an eye on her.
They went and told the others they were leaving.

"You guys are leaving kinda early aren't you?" asked
Max.
"We're bored Maxwell. We're going to take in a movie
or get a bite to eat," said Michael.
Max eyed them both and then nodded. "Okay, just make
sure she gets home safe Michael. I don't want anything
to happen to her."
Michael saluted Max as he said,"Yes sir! I'll do as
I'm told sir!"
Isabel smiled slightly as she said,"Max, quit being so
bossy! Have fun everyone." 
She turned to leave, and then turned back
saying,"Tess, you're still welcome to spend the night
if you want. Just be quiet when you come in."
Tess looked confused for a minute, and then as she
understood said,"Yeah, thanks Isabel. I will be real
quiet when I come in."
Kyle wrapped his arms around Tess and said,"Your not
coming home? Man I had a great night planned."
Tess knew the kind of night Kyle had planned and felt
really bad about having to turn him down, but Isabel
needed her right now, and that had to come first.
"Sorry Budda Boy, but it's girl's night when we are
done dancing. You'll have to trim your own lamp
tonight."

******

Michael stopped his bike in Isabel's driveway and cut
the engine. Isabel climbed off the back and handed
Michael her helmut.
"Good night Michael," she said as she kissed him.
Michael grabbed her around the waist, and pulled her
in tighter for a deeper kiss. His tongue searched out
the inside of Isabel's mouth, doing a pleasing dance
with her tongue. When they parted, Isabel ran her
fingers through his hair that always seemed so unruly.
"I love you Michael."
Michael kissed her finger tips as he said,"I love you
to Isabel." I just wish I knew what was making you
feel so bad, he thought.
"I'll be fine. Good night," she said as she went
inside.
Michael watched until she ws safely inside , and then
reluctuntly rode off.
Isabel leaned against the door as she heard his bike
start up and leave. She closed her eyes and prayed.
Please,please let everything work out. I love him so.
Please let everything work out.

******

Tess came in the room an hour after Max came home. He
had been asleep for a little while, so Isabel
whispered to Tess to be really quiet. 
"Did you get it?" asked Isabel her stomache aching
with nerves.
Tess pulled out a sack with three tests inside.
"I thought we might need to be really sure," said Tess
at Isabel's questioning look.
They took the tests to the bed and began to read the
instructions.
"They all say use them the first thing in the morning.
I guess that's when you'll find out," said Tess as she
watched Isabel.
Isabel lay down on the bed, and clutched her pillow to
her, staring off into space.
Tess sat with her back against the headboard and
stroked Isabel's hair.
"Isabel, who may be a daddy? I mean I was joking back
at the club. I never even thought you had had sex. Is
it someone we know?"
"I don't want to say yet Tess. It may not be true ,
and then I would just be embarrassed," said Isabel
quietly.
Tess looked down at Isabel. The girl who tried to
control everything in her life was losing control
slowly. If she was pregnant, she would need alot of
help dealing with it.

******

Michael had been pacing his apartment most of the
night lost in thought. 
What the hell was wrong with her? Aliens never got
sick unless they did something stupid like he had done
at the sweat lodge.
That's when Isabel said she first knew she was in love
him.
When they had thought he was going to die.
It also broke her heart because he had chosen Maria to
be his girl.
Hell, he had been afraid of loving Isabel. She was
perfect and he was not. He had always loved her, but
he had discovered he was 'in love' with her when Alex
and Maria had let it slip that Isabel had almost slept
with a stranger in Vegas.
He had been pissed off at her ,more than he had ever
thought possible, and had yelled at her about being so
stupid. He had been scared. Scared of losing her to a
stranger.
She had given it back just as good as she got though,
saying that he had no right telling her what to do.
They had gone round and round until he had grabbed her
and kissed her. That had shocked them both.
She had pulled away , turning from him, but not
before he had seen her tears. He had asked why she was
crying, and she had finally said she couldn't take
having her heart broken by him again and again.
She was in love with him, and understood that he did
not return her feelings in that way.
He had taken her in his arms and kissed her deeply,
telling her he loved her too. That she had scared some
sense into him with that stunt in Vegas. He had almost
lost her.
They had met secretly for months, talking of the
future , planning on marrying someday. They were
afraid to let the others, especially Max know of their
love for each other, afraid of what they would say.
And then the last two months they had moved further.
They had been intimate.

That first time had been like nothing he had ever
experienced. They had met at the cliff as ususal and
then one thing had led to another, the kissing, the
touching, the removal of clothing , and then the
coming together that had been so sweet, and yet so
incredibly explosive that it had seemed like the stars
had burst in the sky. Nothing had ever effected him
that way before.
He had been her first, and treasured that. He had
felt her womb when he had come hard inside her, and
knew she would always be his.
Michael rubbed his head and face and then froze as a
thought flashed through his head.
Oh God! It couldn't be...no...but she had the signs
...if he had just paid attention...
Michael grabbed his helmut and jacket and headed for
the door.

*******

Isabel had not slept all night. She kept thinking
about the dreams. Why had they not discussed them
after they had fallen in love? They had never spoken
about them. Michael had seemed relieved at the time
that they were not going to have a baby...what if he
didn't want one now either? How were they going to
handle this if it was true? Could they handle it?
She looked at the clock.
5:30.
She rolled over and got up, waking Tess in the
process.
"It's time isn't it?" she asked.
Isabel nodded.
"It will be okay Isabel."
"I hope your right."
Isabel smiled a little, and grabbed the sack and went
into the bathroom she shared with Max.

She took out the tests and followed the directions on
each. Then she turned to the door, and taking a deep
breath, entered her room.

******

A noise at the window alerted Tess to someone trying
to get in.
Tess watched as Michael crawled in Isabel's window.
"Morning Michael," she said, startling the alien.
"Shit Tess! You scared me," he said, nearly falling at
the sound of her voice. He had forgotten that Tess was
staying the night with Isabel.
"Do you wake Isabel this way every morning," she asked
while she observed his nervous gaze.
"I uh, was worried about her. She felt ill last night
, and I wanted to check on her."
"Ohhh, well that was sweet Michael."
"Yeah, I'm a real sweetheart," he replied wishing Tess
would leave so he could talk to Isabel.
Tess watched him as Michael looked about
uncomfortabley.
So this was Daddy. He had to be. Would wonders never
cease. Destiny had found a couple after all. 

They both jumped as they heard the door open.
"Michael! What are you doing here?" exclaimed Isabel
in a whisper.
"He wanted to make sure you were okay Isabel. Wasn't
that sweet?" said Tess eyeing them both.
"Yes, sweet," replied Isabel nervously. 
"Anything?" Tess asked the girl.
"Not yet," replied Isabel , her eyes going from Tess
to Michael.
Tess nodded, and looked around. She got up, and
stretching said,"I think I'll go downstairs and get
some juice. Anyone else want some?"
"No," Michael and Isabel replied, not taking their
eyes from each other.
"Okay, well I'll be right back," she said as she left
the room. She figured they needed to be alone for
whatever news they were about to find out.

*******

Michael watched Isabel began to pace the room,
twisting her night shirt in her hands.
He hated seeing her like this. He hated not knowing.
Why wouldn't she even tell him she might be pregnant?
He bet she was scared, he knew he was. His heart and
stomach seemed to be competing with each other, one
was pounding and the other was rolling.
Finally he asked,"Isabel is there something you want
to tell me?"
She shook her head as her step faltered.
Michael got up and went to her, stopping her motions,
and he took her in his arms, holding her close.
She was trembling.
He stroked her back as he asked in a hushed
whisper,"Is there something in the bathroom I should
know about?"
Closing her eyes, she nodded her head against his
chest.
He closed his eyes ,and then looked heavenwards as he
rested his head next to hers.
Taking a deep breath he asked,"Do you want me to go
look?"
She pulled back , shaking her head avoiding looking at
his face. "No...I'll do it."
He watched as she walked to the bathroom door,
hestitated, and then went inside.

She looked at the three tests, and closed her eyes.
Pregnant.
She looked in the mirror trying to see a change. She
didn't know what pregnant looked like. She looked the
same, no different. No glow, just puffy, tired eyes.

She thought back over their time together and figured
it must have happened that first time on the cliff. He
had been so sweet and gentle with her. The others
didn't see that side of Michael, he always had his
tough guy wall up. But with her, he was easy going and
loving.
He had made the sweetest love to her, hating that he
had to cause her pain at first, but then he had moved
inside her and the pain had gone, replaced by an
ecstasy she had never known exsisted. The warmth that
filled her when he came, flooded her body and left her
tingling with joy.
That had to have been when they had created their
child.

She turned towards the door, and took a shakey breath.
Please let this be alright,please let this be
alright. Don't let him blame me. Don't let him leave
me.

*******

Michael didn't know he had been holding his breath
until the door opened. 
One look at her white face and he knew.
He opened up his arms ,and she ran into them, crying
as she did so. He rocked her gently from side to side
,and kissed her head as she cried.
"It's going to be okay Isabel. We'll figure this out.
Shhhh, it's going to be okay," he kept saying ,hoping
it to be true.
"How did you know?" asked Isabel to his chest.
How had he known she was pregnant.
"I was thinking all night about when we knew we were
in love with each other, and the first time we had
made love. It just kinda came to me...all of the
signs. I had to see if I was right," he replied.
"Are you mad?" she asked, afraid to know.
"Mad? No. Scared? Hell yes. How about you?"
"Scared? Yes, I'm so scared. What is my family going
to say? What will people say when they find out? We're
in high school Michael. We're supposed to graduate
this year. How can we have a baby?" she asked, her
voice shaking as she sobbed.
"I have the same fears Isabel. Your father is going to
kill me. And Max...I don't even like thinking about
Max. We have to think this through Isabel. Whatever we
do will effect us the rest of our lives," he said as
he held her face in his hands and looked in her tear
filled eyes.
Isabel nodded and closed her eyes as Michael pulled
her to him again and they both cried.

*****

Max awoke to what sounded like someone crying. He
jumped out of bed, and headed through the bathroom he
shared with Isabel, stopping short at the sight he saw
on the counter.
He slowly walked over to the counter and picked up the
boxes one by one. He then picked up the tests reading
each one.
Pregnant.
This must be why Tess had spent the night.
Tess, or God forbid ,Isabel was pregnant.
Max reached a shaky hand for the door to Isabel's room
and pushed it open.
He didn't expect to see Michael crying,holding a
sobbing Isabel.
Isabel and Michael? 
"You son of a bitch!" cried Max as he lunged for
Michael.
Michael quickly pushed Isabel to the side as Max came
at him.
Isabel screamed as Max began to hit Michael with his
fists, Michael not defending himself against the
blows.
"Max, stop it! Leave him alone!" cried Isabel.
Tess came flying in the door along with Mr. and Mrs.
Evans.
Mr. Evans ran to Max and pulled him off of Michael.
"Max! What's going on here? Michael, why was Max
hitting you?"

Max struggled to control himself as his parent's
waited for an answer. 
He couldn't let them know just yet about Isabel being
pregnant.
"I ...didn't like something he did...so I hit him." He
turned to Michael, and said threw gritted teeth,"I'm
sorry Michael."
Michael stood up, and touched his sore jaw. Max had
always had one hell of a punch. 
"Yeah, well I guess I deserved it," replied Michael,
knowing Max had his reasons for not telling their
secret.
"Well I don't like fighting, so I don't want this to
happen again," said Mr.Evans.
"Yes sir," they replied.
Eyeing them both ,Mr.and Mrs. Evans went back to their
room.
"I can't believe they didn't even ask why Michael was
in Isabel's room ,or why he was even here," remarked
Tess surprised.
"That's because they 'trust' him. He sleeps over here
quite alot, so they wouldn't question it," replied
Max, his angry eyes never leaving Michael.
Isabel went to Michael and touched his jaw gently.
"Max, you didn't have to hit him! Now he'll have to
stay this way and heal normally since Mom and Dad have
seen it."
"I hit him Isabel because he's a son of a bitch! Are
you going to stand there and tell me those tests I saw
in the bathroom aren't yours? That you and Michael
aren't going to have a baby?"
Tess stepped in and said,"Max, they have alot to deal
with right now without having to deal with you too.
They have just now found out that they are going to
have a baby...they haven't even had time to adjust to
that. Give them a break. Yell at them later, not now."

Max looked at Isabel and Michael , his feelings of
anger, and of having been betrayed, still strong. He 
decided to follow Tess's advise, giving them all a
time to think. He would wait until later to deal with
them.
"Okay...I'll let it drop...for now. But I want to talk
to both of you this afternoon at the pod chamber."
He then went to his own room.

"Thanks Tess," said Isabel going to Tess hugging the
girl.
Tess hugged Isabel back, and looked at Michael.
"Yeah, thanks," he replied sincerly.
Tess nodded and said, "Well you two have alot to talk
about I'm sure , so I'm going to go on home."
She gathered her things ,and with one last look at the
solemn couple, she left.

*******

"What do we do Michael?" asked Isabel.
Michael walked over to the window that Isabel was
staring out of, and put his hands on her shoulders.
"I don't know. Maybe we should both get some sleep. We
can think better with clear heads."
"I can't sleep here Michael. Could we go to your
place?"
Michael nodded. He would feel better being away from
here too.
"Yeah we can go there."
They gathered some things for her, and headed out the
front door.
Michael stopped.
"What's wrong?" Isabel asked.
"I'm not letting you ride on my bike anymore. You're
pregnant, and that's not a good idea" he said.
Isabel smiled to herself at this. He was protecting
them. 
Them. How strange to already fall into wanting to
protect their child.
"I'll drive my car over," she said as she kissed his
cheek.
Michael followed her to his place ,and they went
inside.

*******

Michael lay on the bed holding a sleeping Isabel in
his arms. He placed one hand hesitantly on her lower
abdomen. 
A child was growing in her. His child. 
He caressed the small pooch that was now very obvious
to him. To the casual observer there was no change,
but he knew her body, and he couldn't believe he
hadn't noticed the changes. Or maybe he had, and had
unconsciously chosen not to see them. 
Isabel stirred in her sleep , opening her eyes to see
Michael watching her. His hand was on her belly. She
placed her hand on his and met his eyes.
"We need to talk," he said.
"Yes we do. What are we going to do Michael? We're in
high school. How can we go to school and raise a
baby?"
Michael had began to trace circles on Isabel's tummy
and now stopped as he said,"Are you saying you don't
want to have it?" He hadn't expected that. 
Isabel shook her head,"I didn't say that, I'm just
saying we're young, and to have a baby is a huge
responsibility. I mean we're supposed to be fighting
aliens, and saving a planet. How can we do that with a
baby?"
"So are you saying you want to give it up?" he asked,
feeling himself tighten in his gut.
Isabel shook her head again. "I don't know what I want
Michael. I'm so confused. I want your baby, our baby,
but I know there would be so many problems to deal
with."
Michael threaded his fingers through hers and gazed at
their hands.
"I'll do whatever you want Isabel, but I just want you
to know, that I wouldn't mind having a baby." He
paused before admitting to her,"I was sort of
disapointed when you weren't pregnant last time."
Isabel's head flew to the side to look at his face.
"What? I thought you had been relieved. You seemed to
be glad it wasn't true, and ran back to Maria. Why
didn't you tell me?" 
"I know, but I was really sad about it. I thought the
kid in our dreams, the family thing with you was
great. But you said it couldn't be, so I hid my
feelings about it. You seemed to be relieved to you
know," he said.
Isabel shook her head, "I was sad too. I wanted that
dream to be real. I loved you , and having your baby
was a dream come true. But then it fell apart. It
wasn't real."
Michael leaned on his arm and looked down into her
face,"It's real this time Isabel. Very real. No dreams
to vanish or to be taken away. We can do this if you
want. We can have our family."
At her look he rushed on, "Yeah, I know it's going to
be hard, but not impossibe. I'm not trying to pressure
you, but we have to be very honest and upfront with
each other about this. Once we decide, we can't go
back. You know I love you. I think I already love this
baby too. I'll take care of you both if you decide
we're going to keep it."

Isabel knew she had to decide. It was ultimately her
decision to make. She wanted this baby so much. She
loved it , it was Michael. 
"I need to think about this Michael. Everything will
be changed. You, me, those around us if we keep this
baby."
Michael touched the hair at her face and twirrled it
with his fingers.
"Things have already changed Isabel, no matter what we
decide. Max is never going to trust me again, and I
don't know how he'll treat you. Tess knows, which
means Kyle will know soon. It's a chain reaction.
Things are already different and can never be the same
again."
Isabel knew Michael was speaking the truth, but she
wasn't ready to accept it yet. 
"What time is it Michael?" she asked.
Michael looked at his clock.
"4:15 Why?"
"Time to go and face Max."

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

Isabel and Michael walked into the pod chamber, and
found Max pacing, and Tess watching him.
Max turned at the sound of their entrance.
"It's about time you two showed up. I think Max is
trying to wear a hole in the cave floor," said Tess
trying to keep things light.
It fell flat.
"Where have you been?" demanded Max.
"We've been sleeping Maxwell. In case you forgot,
Isabel is pregnant, and she was tired. She needed to
sleep," said Michael already getting defensive and
protective.
Max glanced at Isabel. 
"Well I expected you two over an hour ago. I thought
maybe you had done something else stupid like run off
and gotten married," said Max bitterly.
"Stop it Max! Stop it right now!" demanded Isabel.
Michael placed a calming hand on her shoulder , and
gently massaged it, not even aware he had done it.
Max noticed the gesture and said,"Would you please not
paw her!"
Michael jerked , but kept his hand where it was.
"I'm not pawing her Maxwell, I'm trying to keep her
calm. She doesn't need to get upset in her condition."
"And would you quit throwing it out that she's
pregnant?" yelled Max, as he stormed around the cave.
"I thought that was why were here Max, to discuss
what's happened. Get used to it man, she is pregnant
and it is my baby," argued Michael.
"Oh I haven't forgotten Michael. I haven't forgotten
that I trusted the two of you. How could you betray me
like that?"
"Betray you! How did we betray you Max? We fell in
love ,and things got out of control, but it had
absolutely nothing to do with you!" shouted Isabel.
"Fell in love? I don't think Michael knows the meaning
of the word! He loved Maria to, but that's over, just
like you'll be when he leaves you!" shouted Max.
Michael clinched his fists, and took a step towards
Max, but stopped when Isabel put her hand on him.
"No Michael! I think Max is the one who doesn't know
the meaning of being in love. I love him Max. Michael
loves me. If you loved me you would be happy for me.
For us. Michael has been nothing but kind, and sweet,
and loving to me. He makes me feel like no other
person can. We didn't wait,okay? We jumped before we
thought,but that is our mistake and has nothing to do
with you," said Isabel, her heart pounding as she
struggled to stay calm.
Tess went to Max and touched his shoulder.
"Max, I've listened to Isabel talk about Michael. She
does love him. And I saw Michael's face as he came in
the window this morning to check on her. He loves her.
Don't alienate the two you care about the most because
you feel they betrayed you. They followed their
hearts. How can you argue with that? You love Liz.
They have accepted her because you love her. Why can't
you do the same for them?" 
"Because it's not the same, Tess! They knew how I felt
about them being together, and they went behind my
back," argued Max.
"We went behind your back because we knew you would
react this way Max!" said Michael, his irriatation
with Max turning to anger.
Isabel stood before Max and asked,"Are you upset
because we love each other, or because it fell in with
what had been planned for us? Because if it's about
'destiny' then you're all wrong Max. Destiny had
nothing to do with it."
"How do you know that Isabel? How do you know that you
and Michael didn't get together because of some
alignment of the stars?" asked Max.
"Because I've always loved him Max. My heart tells me
it's not destiny, but love," said Isabel softly.
Max started to reply when Tess said,"Max, you love
Liz, and I love Kyle. I don't think that will change.
Destiny is not in the cards unless you let it happen.
Michael and Isabel have loved each other, and destiny
was just a bonus for them. Why can't you accept that
they are going to be together no matter what? Support
them, don't fight them."
"How are they going to raise a baby? They're in high
school, and not ready for this," said Max.
"Max, do you want me to get rid of my baby?" asked
Isabel quietly.
Max turned to her and saw the pain in her eyes. He
felt her anguish, and combined with his own it was
devastating.
"No,of course not," he replied feeling her sadness.
"What do you want then Max? Michael and I want to keep
our baby ,and raise it. We have gained the child we
lost in our dreams, a child we both wanted. Don't miss
out on it's life because of misplaced anger. Don't
make me have to choose between you and my baby,
because I think you know what my choice will be."
Michael listened to Isabel wondering if she was even
aware that she had chosen to raise the baby with him.
He was scared, but elated. This is what he had wanted,
and he was going to make sure that it worked.

Max watched as Michael went to Isabel and took her in
his arms and held her to him, kissing her face and
mouth gently. 
Isabel clung to Michael like a life line, and he
suddenly envied them. 
They had what he wanted to have with Liz.
He had just never thought about Michael and Isabel
together, even after the book and their mother's
revelation. But now watching them together he could
see they were meant for each other. 
His anger defused somewhat, but still he couldn't
believe that they hadn't waited and were now having a
baby.
"Okay, I see you love each other, it will take me time
with that, but the baby. Isabel, mom and dad are going
to have a fit. What are you going to tell them?"
Isabel and Michael both tensed at that. They didn't
know, but they needed to deal with it.
"I want to wait awhile to tell them Max. I'm just not
ready," said Isabel.
Michael turned her in his arms, "Wait? No way, we're
getting married, and you're moving in with me. The
sooner the better."
Isabel tried to make him understand,"Michael, I need
time to adjust to this myself, before telling them.
We'll be together, just not yet."
Michael wasn't buying into it. He broke away from her
and ran his fingers through his hair. 
"No! I want to take care of you now! What if something
bad happens to you, and I'm not there? I'm not losing
the both of you again, no way!"
The other three watched Michael as he ranted, totally
forgetting that he meant to stay calm for Isabel.
Max finally went to him and said,"I won't let anything
happen to her Michael. I'll watch out for them both."
Michael looked at Max and said, "No way Maxwell! My
family is my responsibility, and no one is taking that
away from me."
Isabel's heart swelled at that. He needed his family
with him. As scared as she was to tell her parents,
she wouldn't deny him that. He had waited to long.
"Alright Michael, we will tell them tonight and then
I'll marry you," she said quietly.
The others turned to her in surprise and Max and Tess
watched Michael and Isabel hug each other and leave
the cave.
"It's going to be bad , real bad at your house tonight
Max. Be there for them," said Tess as she stood by his
side watching the two lovers leave.
Max nodded ,and left the cave.

********

Isabel finished packing her things, and Michael
carried them to the door.
"I'm sorry Isabel. I know they didn't react the way
you wanted them to," said Michael to her back. 
Isabel turned around ,the tears were still in hers
eyes.
"I know Michael. I hurt them badly, I just never
thought they would throw me out," said Isabel
tearfully.


******

Max had come in as they had told her parents about the
baby.
His father had yelled ,and threatened Michael with
charges of rape, while his mother had cried.
Isabel had cried, but refused to beg when her father
had told her to get out. He was ashamed of her and
didn't want her or her baby in his house. He said he
had trusted her and Michael, and didn't appreciate
being taken for a fool. They had made their bed and
they could sleep in it.
Max had tried to help , but his father had turned on
him, asking if this was what the fight was about. Why
hadn't he told his parents about Isabel's mess.
Isabel had stopped him , by saying Max knew nothing
about the baby ,or her and Michael. She had saved him
from being tossed out too. 
Isabel's family was everything to her, and she had
lost it. Not because she was an alien, but because of
a moment of passion.
Max decided right then that even though he was not
happy with what they had done, he would do everything
he could to help Isabel and Michael out.

******

Max stood by the jeep and and watched as Michael
placed the bags inside. His parents had taken the car
from Isabel, and Max had loaned them the jeep to take
her things to his apartment.
"I'll come by later and get the jeep," he said. 
Isabel just nodded as she sat in the passenger seat
staring at the house. The house where she was no
longer welcome.
"I'll work on them Isabel. I'll try to make things
better for you," said Max.
"Thanks Max," Isabel sighed sadly.
Michael started the jeep and looking at Max , he
pulled out of the driveway and drove off.

******

"We have only tomorrow to get married in Isabel. We
need to find someone to perform the ceremony," said
Michael as he unloaded Isabel's things.
"The JP in the next town will do it. I heard he
doesn't ask questions," replied Isabel as she put her
things in Michael's dresser.
Michael came over to her as she went and sat on the
bed ,and stared at the floor.
Kneeling down infront of her he asked,"It's not the
way you dreamed it would be is it?"
Isabel shook her head and said,"No it isn't. Do you
remember how I used to make you be the groom and Max
would marry us? You always hated it, but you would do
it anyway."
Michael smiled at that memory. 
"Yeah, but that was because you wanted me to kiss you.
I was nine years old and didn't like kissing girls.I
wasn't very smart back then was I? You used to dress
up in your mother's old fancy dress and make us wear
those stupid old suits of your dad's. Remember when
you cut all the flowers from your mom's garden for the
arrangements? I thought she would stroke out."
Isabel smiled at that.
"You remembered all of that? That was my dream wedding
you know. I guess it's a good thing I had that then,"
she replied sadly.
Michael took her hands in his.
"Isabel, I'm sorry it won't be a great wedding. I'm
sorry your parents won't be there."
He wiped one of the tears that had begun to fall.
"Whatever kind of a wedding it will be, it will be
special to me because I'm marrying you," he said.
Isabel smiled and snuffed."You're a romantic Michael
Guerin. If only people knew."
"Yeah, well don't let it get around. I have a
reputation you know," he replied straight faced, glad
she was smiling.

******

Isabel was in the bathroom putting on her dress. It
was nothing special, but it was going to be her
wedding dress.
They would be going to the next town to the JP as soon
as Max arrived. He would be a witness.
A knock sounded on the door.
"Michael, would you get that please?" she called out
to him.
The knocking persisted, and Isabel came out to an
empty apartment. Where was Michael?
Isabel opened the door to reveal Tess, Liz, and Maria.
"What are you guys doing here? Why are you all dressed
up?" she asked.
"Tess, told us about you and Michael," said Liz.
Isabel shot a glance at Maria.
"Yeah, we know everything," said Maria.
Isabel waited for the dressing down, but none came.
"Look Isabel, Michael and I have been over for months.
I'm with Brody now. Sure I feel funny, but I'm not
jealous, so don't worry," said Maria as she came in
the apartment.
"We brought you a gift!" said Tess full of excitement.
"A gift?" asked Isabel.
"Open it and see," said Liz.
Isabel took the huge box that they had brought in and
opened it. The shock on her face was evident to the
others.
"It's a wedding dress," whispered Isabel as she lifted
it out of the box.
"Michael said you didn't have one, so we came up with
this. There is also a veil, and we want to put flowers
in your hair," said Liz.
Isabel began to cry as she hugged her friends. It had
taken her a long time to be able to call these girls
her friends, but that's what they were.
"Enough. Lets' get you ready," said Tess.

******

They arrived at a park instead of the JP's house,
confusing Isabel.
"I thought you said Michael would be meeting us at the
JP's? This is a park," said Isabel.
"No, what we said, was that Michael would be meeting
us 'with' the JP. We never said at his house," said
Liz.
They got out of the car and led Isabel down a path
that opened up to an area with stone benches. Flowers
were everywhere in the garden setting, and Michael was
waiting for her with the JP. Max and Kyle stood by him
, while Alex began to play a wedding song that Maria
began to sing to. Liz and Tess proceeded Isabel to
where the guys stood, and there sitting on a bench was
her mother.
Isabel's tears flowed down her cheeks as she saw her
mother stand and smile at her, her own tears falling.
She arrived next to Michael and took his hand.
"Is this okay?" he asked.
She smiled at him and said,"More than okay, it's
perfect. Thank you Michael."
The JP married them , and when he asked who gave her
away, her mother had answered.
Michael put a ring on her finger that she recognized
as her maternal grandmother's. As he slid it on, he
used his powers to make it fit her narrow finger.
When they were pronounced man and wife, Michael kissed
her long and deep. They broke apart only when the
others began to laugh.
"Save it for later Guerin,"teased Kyle.
Isabel turned to her mother and hugged.
"Oh mom, I'm so glad you came," cried Isabel.
"I wouldn't have missed it." She brushed Isabel's face
with her hand and said,"Your my baby girl. Your father
is mad now, but I'll work on him. It won't be easy for
you Isabel. You and Michael will have a long road to
travel, and it will be hard being so young, but I will
help you any way I can."
"Thanks mom," said Isabel through her tears.

They went back to the Crashdown for wedding cake and
dancing. Michael shocked them all by dancing with
Isabel several times.
"Must be true love for Spaceboy to dance," remarked
Maria drily.
When Isabel began to get tired, Michael said they were
leaving. Isabel threw her bouquet, and Liz caught it
causing laughter and speculation. 
Michael drew Isabel's garter from her leg and tossed
it. Kyle caught it and asked if he could see Isabel's
leg again,causing Tess to elbow him.
They left in a sea of rice in Max's jeep. 
Michael had indeed made Isabel's wedding perfect.

******

Isabel woke up feeling relaxed. Michael had made love
to her most of the night, but she still felt alert and
relaxed. 
He had been hesitant at first about touching her, but
when she assured him they couldn't hurt the baby, he
had given her such pleasure, that she had actually
purred.
"About time you woke up. We need to get ready for
school. I let you sleep along time," said Michael as
he brought her some juice.
School. 
"We have to go don't we?" asked Isabel. It was really
more of a statement than a question.
"Yeah we do. We have to set an example for our kid.
Let him know that an education is important," said
Michael.
"Since when do you find school important Michael? You
always have skipped out. It's a wonder you get
promoted at all with how much you skip," teased
Isabel.
"Not anymore. I'm going everyday, and I'm getting a
diploma to prove it. I want to be a good dad Isabel,
and I need to graduate to that."
Isabel touched his lips with her finger tip, "You will
be a great dad Michael, I'm sure about that."

******

Isabel walked into Government and sat down. Michael
sat beside her. Max and Liz to the back.
"We have a film today people on the justice system.
Some of it will be graphic, depicting people after
they have been executed, so be forwarned. Mr.Tate has
graciously brought us popcorn to feast on during our
viewing. Feel free to partake, but don't leave a
mess.Lights."
As they watched the film and ate, Isabel began to feel
queezy. The smell of the popcorn and the graphic
details of the video made her start to search for a
way to leave class.
Michael glanced Isabel's way as he munched on the
popcorn ,pausing when he saw the look on her face. She
raised her hand to her mouth and wildly looked about.
Suddenly she dashed out of her chair and into the
hall.
Michael rushed after her despite the calls from the
Teacher. He saw her run into the girl's restroom. She
barely made it to the stall before she threw up.
Michael rushed in behind her, heedless of the calls
and looks.
He held Isabel's hair as she threw up, and then
brought her a wet paper towel.
"Are you okay now Isabel?" he asked concerned.
"Yeah, I'm okay. Embarrassed, but okay," she said.
"MR.GUERIN! What are you doing in the girl's
restroom?" boomed Mrs. Tyler.
Michael turned to the older woman and said,"She was
sick, and I came to help her out."
"I don't think she needs you to help her anymore Mr.
Guerin. Please remove yourself to the office, and take
Miss Evans with you. If she's sick, she needs to see
the nurse."
Michael led Isabel into the hall and found the school
at a stand still, all eyes on them.

"Great, an audience to add to my humiliation," said
Isabel as she moved past the throng of people to the
office, with Michael following behind.
"You're humiliated? I was just in the girl's room,"
said Michael.

They arrived at the Nurse's office where Michael
waited outside for Isabel.
"Are you feelng better now Miss Evans?" asked the
Nurse.
"Yes, I am."
"Did you eat something that didn't agree?"
"No."
"Is it that time of the month? Are you prone to being
ill during that time?"
Isabel couldn't believe the nosey questions from the
woman.
"No it isn't, and no I don't"
"Well I'll just call your home and have someone come
pick you up."
Isabel squirrmed at that. They couldn't call her 
home. Her home was with Michael , and he was just
outside the door.
"Who do I call Miss Evans?"
"My husband," said Isabel softly.
The Nurse dropped the phone.
"Your who? I don't think I heard you correctly."
"I said, my husband, and he's right outside the door,"
replied Isabel a little louder.
The Nurse went to the door and opened it to see
Michael looking worried in the chair. She closed the
door.
"Have you told the office personel that you no longer
go by the name Evans?"
"No, I guess I should though," replied Isabel.
"Are you pregnant Miss..er...Mrs....what is your name
dear?"
"Guerin. Isabel Guerin. And ...uh...yes I am," she
admitted reluncuntly.
"Well, I think that you'll be okay. Morning sickness
doesn't always come in the morning. Just bring
crackers to nibble during the day and you will be
fine," she said as she patted Isabel's hand.
"Thank you , I will," replied Isabel.
"You need to go see the counselor right now dear. They
need to take care of your name change."

*******

After Isabel and Michael had proved they were married
and gotten her records changed they headed back to
class.
But rumors were already flying by the time they
returned.

"Hey Guerin, I here you knocked up Isabel Evans and
her dad made you marry her."
"Isabel's always been a slut. I bet he didn't have to
pry her legs apart."
"Haven't they heard you can get rid of pregnancies
now?"
"They got married? Why didn't they just live
together?"

On and on the rest of the day, they endured the looks
and whispers. 
Max hated having Isabel whispered about. He almost
used his powers on one guy just to get him to shut up.
"I warned you guys about this," he said after school.
"The whole school is talking about you. This isn't
good. It draws attention. We don't need that."
"Well it just makes us seem more human then, doesn't
it Maxwell?" remarked Michael trying not to get pissed
at Max.
"Please don't start you guys. I really don't want to
hear this right now," complained Isabel as she rubbed
her aching head. This was more than she had bargained
for.
"Let's go home Isabel," said Michael eyeing Max.
"I'm sorry Iz," offered Max feeling bad that he had
added to the problem. "Feel better, okay?"
Isabel noddded wearily,"Thanks Max."

*******

May...

Isabel folded the last of the clothes, and began to
put them away. Her domestic skills had been bad, but
Michael had showed her some tricks, and her mother
came by to help whenever her dad was away. He still
would not let Max and her mother even mention Isabel's
name.
She rubbed at her tummy with one hand, while the other
went to her back. 

Her rounded tummy had popped up seemingly over night,
and had kind of freaked Michael out. It wasn't that
she was huge, but that it had happened so quickly. 
She hadn't been to a doctor. They couldn't risk the
blood test,but she took vitamins and read everything
about babies that she could. Her mother would die if
she knew Isabel had not seen a doctor.
Just recently Liz had smuggled over a stethoscope so
they could hear the heartbeat. Everyone had gathered
around for a turn , and were in awe that one of them
had something like this growing inside.

Isabel lay on the bed and thought about graduation. It
was just a few weeks away and things at school had
improved only slightly. People still stared and talked
about her and Michael, and she occasionally still got
sick. 
But true to his word, Michael had never skipped out on
a class, and his grades were the best they had ever
been.
He worked at the Crashdown, and then for an architect
running errands. He was picking up pointers from this
guy who really encouraged Michael with his drawings
and designs. He stayed up late studying almost every
night and started all over again the next day. He
never complained, but she could see that he was
worried. 
They barely could pay their bills, and still had not
prepared for when the baby came.

Michael came home to find Isabel asleep on the bed
again. The pregnancy made her exhausted and she slept
alot. He showered, and when he returned joined her on
the bed.
He watched her sleep, placing his hand on her belly
and marvelling at the life that grew inside of her. 
His hand jumped back, and he started as he felt
movement under his hand. Replacing his hand , he
waited hoping the movement would happen again. When he
felt it happen, he smiled. He wondered if Isabel hurt
when the baby did that. His gaze slid up to her face,
and he found her watching him.
She smiled at him and placed her hand over his own.
"You felt that to didn't you?" she asked.
Michael nodded. "Does it hurt when it does that?"
"No, it feels wonderful. At first it was like
butterfly wings tickling inside, but now it just
reminds me that everything is okay in there."

Michael lay his head on her belly and closed his eyes.
He was so scared. What if he screwed this up? They
could barely meet their bills, and even though they
had not delt with any serious alien things lately, he
was always afraid that something bad would happen to
Isabel and the baby. 
Isabel twirrled Michael's hair in her fingers. She
knew he was worried about everything like she was, but
they rarely spoke about them. He was determined to
take care of his family, and do it on his own.
"Michael, when are we going to start planning for the
baby? We need to get a crib, and diapers, and clothes,
and all sorts of things," she asked him.
Michael raised up and said, "I know. I just keep
waiting for some extra cash to come our way. We'll be
ready don't worry," he said as he felt the familiar
knot form in his gut.
"But it takes time to get ready Michael..."
"Look, I said we would be ready and we will so lay
off!" yelled Michael, jumping up and grabbing his
jacket he left the apartment, and a wide eyed Isabel.
Isabel sat on the bed and began to cry. 
Michael had not yelled at her one time or even lost
his patients with her over all of this. He had been so
caring and supportive which blew everyone else away.
Now it seemed like everything had hit him all at once
and there was nothing she could do to help.

Isabel listend as the phone rang ,and at the other end
she heard the voice of the one she prayed could help
Michael.

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

Michael stood at the quarries edge and threw rocks ,
till his arm hurt.
What had he been thinking? He had just yelled at
Isabel and she had done nothing wrong. He was such a
s***.
An engine alerted him to someone approching, and he
turned to find Max driving up in the jeep.
Great, just what he needed, another confrontation with
Max.
As Max walked up, Michael said,"Did she send you here
Max, or did you come to beat the crap out of me?"
Max looked at Michael's angry face ,and saw that
underneath was a very scared guy that he still thought
of as his friend. 
"Isabel called me because she was worried about you
Michael. She said you stormed off angry. She was
afraid for you," replied Max.
Michael looked off towards the sky and then down at
the ground, his hands running through his hair.
He felt worse because now he had made Isabel worry
about him.
"Just tell her I'm okay. I just have somethings to
sort out."
Max came closer to Michael and laying a hand on his
shoulder said,"Michael, you can't do it all. You guys
need help. Don't be afraid to ask for it."
"We don't need help Maxwell!" said Michael angrily as
he brushed off Max's hand and walked some distance
from him.
"Then why are you yelling at Isabel? She's worried and
scared to you know. She says you won't discuss getting
ready for the baby. What are you going to do when it's
time for the baby to come? You can't go to a doctor or
a hospital because of who you are. You don't have
anything at home for the baby. What's wrong with you?
I thought you were going to take care of everything,"
demanded Max.
Michael turned to Max and yelled, "I am taking care of
everything! I'm taking care of every damned thing! I
work two jobs, I go to f****** school, I'm doing the
best I can, so lay off of me!"
Max watched Michael unload his anger, and accepted for
what it was. He knew Michael was scared.
"Michael, you've done a good job, but now you need
help. No one is going to fault you for asking for
help," said Max.
"And where do I get this help Max? I have no family
except Isabel and the baby, and they can't help. Your
father has made it clear that we are not welcome at
your home, and your mom sneaks over when he leaves
town. You can't help, so where does that leave me?"
Max shook his head and said, "If you want help bad
enough, then you'll ask, no matter where it comes
from. Maybe you just don't want to ask for help,
because that would make you to human." And with that
he got in his jeep and left.

*******

Isabel sat waiting for Michael to come home. It had
been hours since he had left, and Max had called to
say he had talked to him to no avail.
The door opened and Michael walked in. He searched
with his eyes until he saw her sitting on the bed in
the dark. Closing the door he walked slowly to where
she sat.
"Where have you been Michael?" asked Isabel quietly.
"Out."
"Out? Yeah , well I gathered that. You scared the hell
out of me! Where have you been?!" she yelled at him.
Looking at her angry face he finally said,"I went to
see your Dad."
Isabel couldn't believe she had heard him right.
"You did what?"
"I went to see your Dad."
"Why? I mean what did you hope to gain by doing that?
He's made his position in this very clear, he want's
nothing to do with us," said Isabel.
Michael took a deep breath before saying,"I made a
deal with him."
Isabel looked confused, and her insides started to
clinch up. "What kind of a deal?"
Michael looked her straight in the eyes and said,"I
agreed to leave Roswell after graduation if he would
take you and the baby in, and not hold any of this
against you."
Isabel closed her eyes and shook her head.
"Tell me you didn't just say that...tell me you are
joking!" she yelled as she got up and approached him.
"It's the only way you and the baby can be taken care
of Isabel," said Michael turning his back on her so
she wouldn't see the pain this was causing him.
"I'm not going! I'm staying with you. We love each
other remember? We said we would make this work , and
we are. I'm not going to go," she said starting to
cry.
"It's a done deal Isabel. I 'm not ready for this, and
maybe Max was right...I can't commit," he said, lying
to her at the end.
Isabel shook her head."NO! This is not happening ,
this is just a bad dream that I will wake up from any
minute!"
Michael began to collect some of her things.
"Max is coming over to get you in a few minutes. You
can come back tomorrow to get the rest of your stuff,
or I can drop it off for you." He paused before
adding,"I'll wait to sign divorce papers until after
the baby is born. Just make sure that you sign them
too."
Isabel ran into the bathroom and began to throw up,
her emotions riding a rollercoaster.
Michael went inside to help her, his own anguish
tearing him apart.
"Don't touch me! Leave me alone you bastard! Just
leave me alone..." she cried as she hugged the toilet.
"Isabel, let me help you," said Michael.
"Get out Michael...get out since that is what you
want," she sobbed quietly.

Michael backed out of the bathroom and ran into Max.
"I knocked but I guess you didn't hear," said Max
uncomfortably.
Michael nodded and turned to leave.
Max grabbed his arm,"Michael, you didn't have to it
this way. You two need to be together, I see that
now. Don't do this. We can find another way to help
you guys out."
Michael shook his head, "No Maxwell, this is the only
way. You were right, I can't take care of anybody, or
commit. Watch over them for me okay?"
Max nodded. "Yeah, okay."
And Michael left.

*******

Isabel lay in her bed at her parents house, feeling
like a stranger. She had been crying for hours, and
couldn't seem to stop.

Her father had welcomed her back like nothing had ever
happened between them. He had only said that they
would raise the baby if she still wanted it, and that
Michael's name would never be mentioned, or put on the
birth certificate.
Her mother had cried. She was happy Isabel was home,
but she cried also because she knew this was not
Isabel's choice. She still loved Michael and knowing
her daughter, always would.

Max came into the room and sat at Isabel's back.
"You okay?"
"No," she cried. "I want Michael. Why did he do this
Max? Why did he make this decision with out talking to
me first?"
Max began to rub Isabel's back in slow circles as he
thought of how to answer her.
"I think he just wanted what was best for you and the
baby, and this was the only way he could see that
happening. It shows how much he loves you Isabel, that
he would be willing to give up his dream of a family
with you."
"I'm not going to sign those papers Max. He might ,
but I'm not. He has to change his mind...he has too,"
she sobbed.
Max couldn't stand to see Isabel this way. If he
didn't know how much Michael was hurting to, he would
beat the crap out of him.
Max sat with Isabel until she cried herself to sleep,
and then he went to bed. But sleep for him never came.

*******

Over the next few weeks, Michael and Isabel sat in
class and pretended the other was not there. Michael
traded seats whenever possible so he could sit near
the back of the room if it was in a class with Isabel.

Watching her grow bigger and not touching her was
driving him crazy. While her belly had grown, the rest
of her seemed thinner. He had done that to her. 
He watched one day as she got stuck in her desk, her
tummy refusing to budge, because the baby had shifted.
He had stood up to go help her when the others
laughed, but Max had gone to her rescue before he
could move. 
He had almost been expelled that day when he beat a
kid for his laughter. The Principal, knowing Michael's
situation, had talked the other kid's parents into not
pressing charges. He had given Michael detention for a
week, instead of the usual suspension.

Isabel felt the strain of Michael's leaving everyday.
She forced herself to get up , go to school ,and do
everyday things. She had to for the baby. 
She could feels Michael's eyes on her in class. What
was he thinking? Did he miss her, or was he relieved
that he didn't have her and the baby as a burden
anymore?
She had been relieved when he had only received
detention for beating up the boy who had laughed when
she had gotten stuck in her desk. Max had helped her
that time, but she had seen Michael rise to help her
too. He did still care, but he was so stubborn about
this whole thing, and that upset her greatly.

Lunch each day was different because the girls and Max
tried hard to make her feel comfortable. They would
bring her lunch ,and take turns rubbing her swollen
feet and legs. From a distance she could see Michael
sitting under a tree watching them...until he saw her
watching and left.

The other kids at school stared more than ever now
that they knew she and Michael were seperated. Word
traveled fast in Roswell. Some still made comments,
but others just gave her a pitying glance and moved
on. 
Isabel Evans Guerin, the most popular girl in the
senior class had fallen pretty low.

*******

Graduation Day....

Isabel sat on the floor of the auditorium and watched
as her classmates went one by one to receive their
diplomas. 
Michael sat to her left. Neither had spoken. It had
been a month since he had left her and the tension was
between them was great.
Her row stood up to get in line for the their
diplomas.
"Have you been feeling okay?" asked Michael from
behind her.
Isabel melted at the sound of his voice.
She nodded her head, not trusting herself to speak.
Michael noticed the nod. 
"I'm glad. I have been worried about you and the
baby."
Isabel stopped at that, holding up the procession, as
she turned to him.
"Worried? Then you shouldn't have left us Michael."
"Isabel Evans Guerin."
Isabel turned at the sound of her name being
announced.
As she approached the stage, Michael held out his hand
for her to use to climb the stairs. She looked in his
eyes, and took the offered hand greatfully, enjoying
the feel of his touch. The touch she had not had for
what seemed like an eternity.
Michael watched as she climbed the stairs carefully
and received her diploma. He was proud of her. She was
smart, and beautiful, and would go far...without him
to hold her back.
"Michael Guerin."
Michael received his diploma, and started the down the
steps, finding Isabel waiting on him.
"I'm proud of you Michael. I knew you could do it.
What ever you set your mind to, you accompish," she
said her pride in him showing.
Michael's heart swelled at that. 
"Thanks Isabel. I'm proud of you too. We did it," he
said with a slight grin.
"Yes Michael, we did it. We did it together," said
Isabel as she walked to her seat.

******

Michael rode up to the Evans house and killed his
engine. Putting his helmut on his bike, he started up
the walk.
Mr. Evans came bursting out the house yelling,"Hold it
right there! Just where do you think you are going? We
had an agreement."
Isabel, Max, and Mrs. Evans followed to see what was
going on.
"Mr. Evans, I've come to see Isabel sir," said Michael
as he eyed Isabel's blossoming form.
"No you're not! We had an agreement. Get off of my
property,and stay away from my daughter. You promised
to be out of Roswell after graduation. That was today,
so I want to hear that you're leaving now," said an
angry Mr. Evans.
"Well about that ...see I changed my mind. I love
Isabel, and want her with me. Her and the baby. I made
a mistake because I was scared. I'm here to correct
that mistake," said Michael.
"That was your third mistake Michael. First you took
advantage of our trust in you , then you got my
daughter pregnant, now you are renigging on a deal.
I'll have you up on charges of rape."
"He didn't rape me daddy and you know it," said Isabel
from behind her father. "I'm his wife, and I plan to
stay that way," she said as she eyed Michael.
"Get in the house Isabel! We had a deal, and I expect
to see it kept," Mr. Evans said as pushed Isabel
towards the house.
"Dad, you can't make her stay here if she doesn't want
too. She loves Michael, and she is his wife. Why can't
you see that need to be togther?" asked Max.
"This doesn't concern you Max, so stay out of it,"
replied Mr. Evans.
"It may not concern him Phillip, but it does concern
me. Our daughter has been miserable since she and
Michael have been apart. She needs him and loves him.
I've seen Michael with Isabel, and he does whatever he
can to make to her happy. He had some moments of
fright Phillip. Can you say that you wouldn't have in
his position? He did what he thought was the only way
to care for her...he let her go. That must have hurt
him greatly. You know how much he has wanted a family,
you've heard Max and Isabel talk about it. He gave
that up for her. Now I'm telling her to go to him, and
whether you like it or not, I'm giving them my support
in anyway that I can..money, food, whatever. And
Phillip...MY daughter is welcome here anytime," said
Diane Evans, her little speech having caught
everyone's attention.
Phillip Evans turned to his wife and said quietly,"But
they're so young. How can they raise a baby? Her
bright future is over if she goes with him."
Diane went to him and said,"Not if we help them
Phillip. We can help them, and their load won't be so
hard. If you love her Phillip, you'll accept them
both, and help them out."
Phillip hugged Diane and then turned to Isabel and
said wearily,"Go. Go to Michael. We will help you if
you'll let us." Then pulling Isabel into his embrace
he added,"I just wanted what was best for you
sweetheart."
Isabel hugged her father back and said,"I know Daddy,
and so did Michael. Thank you." 
Isabel looked at Max and squeezing his hand walked
down the sidewalk to Michael.

"So, you're willing to take me back? I really screwed
up you know," said Michael.
"Yeah, I know, but you came to your senses, so I'll
forgive you,"she teased. Then she said,"But Michael,
we have to be able to talk about everything, big and
small problems as well. We promised each other to do
that, and we didn't. No more keeping things inside to
spare the other. Okay?"
Michael pulled her to him and said, "Yeah. I promise
to include you on all decisions. Hey, what was that?"
he exclaimed as the baby kicked between them.
"I guess our child is glad it's father has come back,"
said Isabel softly, looking up into Michael's eyes.
Michael rested his hand on her tummy, and felt their
child kick again. He grinned ,"I missed that you
know."

*******

December....

Michael was sleeping spooned around Isabel, his hand
on her hip.
Isabel held her breath as another pain gripped her.
The pains had started an hour ago, and they had been
minor, but that one really hurt and caused her to
gasp, waking up Michael.
"What? What's going on?" asked a groggy Michael.
"I think I'm in labor Michael," said Isabel as she lay
there looking at the clock , trying to time the pains.
"You're what?" exclaimed Michael as he sat up in bed
and looked at her.
"I said I think I'm in labor. I've been having pains
for about an hour now...and that last one really
hurt."
Michael got up and turned on the light.
"I'll call Max. Do you need anything Isabel?" he asked
trying to stay calm for her.
"No, I don't think so. Just get Max...and call Tess,"
she added.

Michael called Max who said he would pick up Tess.
When he returned Isabel had a funny look on her face.
"What is it? You look all funny," said Michael.
"My water just broke!" said Isabel.
"Oh geez! Okay, let's get you up, and dried off and
I'll change the sheets. That's what were supposed to
do right?"
"So the book said. My clean gown is in the dresser.
And Michael, I want the blue one," said Isabel as she
walked to the bathroom.
Michael grabbed a gown and handed it to Isabel.
"I said blue Michael. That's white. I'm not wearing
white when our son is born," said Isabel her arms
crossed over her tummy.
"Dammit Isabel, it's just a gown! He or she won't care
what you're wearing, just put the damned thing on!"
exclaimed Michael.
Isabel shook her head and Michael, giving her an
exasperated look, ran back to hunt for the blue gown.
Having found the gown he rushed back ,and helped
Isabel pull off her wet,stained gown, and put on the
clean one.
Then he went to the bed and stripped it, and using his
powers, dried and cleaned the mattress. He placed new
sheets on the bed and went for Isabel.
"Come on , and we'll get you back to bed."
"I'm going to walk,"she said starting to walk around
the apartment.
Michael stared at her like she had lost her mind.
"Get in the bed Isabel. Our kid will be born on its'
head if you don't."
Isabel laughed and said,"It won't be born on its' head
Michael. The book said walking helped labor, and
delivery, so that's what I'm going to do. I'm
walking."
Michael decided not to argue and followed her around
like a puppy dog.
"God, Michael,you're driving me crazy! Quit following
me!"
Max and Tess chose that moment to show up.
"Progressing in our labor I see," said Tess.
"MY labor is going fine, if Michael will just stay out
of my waaaayyy...," huffed Isabel as another pain
gripped her.
Michael and Max both grimaced as Isabel squeezed their
hands against the pain. 
"I had no idea pregnant women were so strong," said
Max.
"Max, take some of that pain away for her," ordered
Tess as she gathered towels and things they would
need.
As Isabel's pain subsided, she lay down and Max
focused on her to take away her pain. Images flew
threw him of Isabel and Michael, and all she felt for
him and their baby.
Max looked at her, and she knew all he had seen ,and
smiled at him as he smiled at her.

Hours passed until Isabel felt a pressure begin
between her legs.
"Something is happening!" she whispered.
Tess raised Isabel's gown and saw the baby's head.
"Here we go, one baby waiting to be born."
Michael watched as Tess rotated the head and body as
Isabel forced their child from her body. 
The child was screaming at the top of its' lungs as it
left her body.
"It's a boy Isabel! It's a boy!" said Michael as he
took his son from Tess and gave him to Isabel.
Max watched as Isabel took her son and checked his
fingers and toes. Tears were in his eyes as he saw
Isabel and Michael's son .
Tess cleaned up Isabel , and went to get the baby to
clean up too.
"No, I want to do it," said Michael as he took his son
and carefully cleaned him up. He returned and handed
him back to Isabel ,who undid her gown and offered the
baby her breast by guiding the nipple to his mouth.
She jumped as the baby latched on and began to suck.
"He's perfect Isabel. Congratulations you two," said
Max as he turned away from Isabel nursing the baby.
"What's his name?" asked Tess as she observed the new
family.
Michael looked at Isabel and she nodded.
"Huh, we decided to call him Jesse Maxwell Guerin,"
said Michael.
Max turned back around , his mouth open.
"After me? Thanks, that's quite an honor," said Max
obviously moved.
"Let's go Max. They don't need us right now." turning
to Michael she said,"We'll be back later to help out."

When they had gone, Michael lay beside Isabel on the
bed and watched his son sleeping in her arms.
"I can't believe we have a kid," remarked Michael.
"Well we do, and he's absolutely perfect," said Isabel
beaming down at her son.
Michael watched him awhile longer before
asking,"Isabel, do yo think we will be good parents?"
Isabel leaned back on Michael and said,"Well you have
a good job with that architect, you're going to
school, I will in the fall, our baby is healthy...I
think since we have each other, and love each other,
that we will be good parents."
"What if we mess up? What if we screw him up? I don't
want him to end up like me, you know," said Michael.
Isabel placed her hand on Michael's and said,"We will
make mistakes, but we won't screw him up Michael. We
will learn as we go. And if he ends up like his Daddy,
then he's pretty lucky, because his Daddy is living 
his dream."
Michael kissed Isabel and then the top of his son's
head.
"Things are going to be different around here with a
baby Isabel."
"True, but we have friends and family who loves us and
will help us until we get on our feet."

Michael thought about the job offer from the architect
that he had excepted. The guy was sending Michael to
school ,and letting him work part time learning the
ropes. He had been able to quit his job at The
Crashdown. 
Isabel was enrolling in the fall at the local college,
and her parents were paying for it. They were going to
pay for daycare for Jesse too. 

"Yeah, I guess we'll make it," said Michael.
"Michael as long as we're together we can do
anything," said Isabel as she kissed Michael.



End