How Far Is Heaven (AU,M/L,MATURE) 12/28/04 - Part 6 [WIP]

RoswellChic4Ever · Post by **RoswellChic4Ever** » Thu May 20, 2004 1:55 am

Title: How Far Is Heaven
Author: RoswellChic4Ever
Category: M/L… I know, big shocker… I’m attempting here.
Rating: MATURE
Summary: AU - When Doctor Max Evans and Liz, Mother of one, are thrown together under tragic circumstances, they have to learn to trust each other, while Liz’s life spirals out of control, and she comes close to losing the one thing she loves most in the world. ANGST! Hey, it’s what I write best.
Disclaimer: Not mine, yadda yadda yadda
Dedication: To Aly, Sarah, and Lindsay cause those biatches turned me back into a dreamer!

Part 1

She had been sitting in the hospital for hours now. No one would give her answers, no matter how many times she asked. She had read every magazine that was in her reach, though she didn’t comprehend any of it. Her mind was not on the articles about Jen and Ben breaking up… again. No, none of that mattered now. The only thing that mattered to her was making sure her baby was ok.

“Liz?” A familiar voice broke Liz from her thoughts. She looked up to see her best friend coming through the doors, her husband right behind her.

“Maria!” She exclaimed. She hugged her friend tightly. “Thank God you’re here.” She said, wiping away a tear.

“How is she?” Maria asked.

Liz shrugged. “I don’t know. I’ve been sitting out here for hours. No one will tell me a thing.”

“What happened?” Michael Guerin, Maria’s husband, asked.

Liz bit her bottom lip. “Umm… well we were outside playing in the backyard, everything seemed fine. She said she was feeling better, so… anyway she was running around the backyard with Hayden and she just collapsed. I didn’t know what to do.” Liz was having a hard time fighting back the tears, thinking about her poor baby girl. “I just brought her here. She finally became semi-coherent while we were waiting. Then they took her back. It’s been hours, what could be wrong?” She told them, then burst into tears.

Michael pulled Liz close to him, trying to comfort her. “It’ll be ok Liz, she’ll be fine.”

“Mr. and Mrs. DeLuca?” Liz pulled away from Michael, when she heard a voice.

“No, just Mrs. DeLuca…” She said, shaking the hand of the handsome doctor in front of her. He was tall, and built with shaggy brown hair and dark brown eyes. “My husband passed a few years ago.” She told him.

“My condolences.” He said softly. “My name is Dr. Max Evans. I’ve been running some tests on Marissa.”

“What’s wrong with her?” Liz asked, scared to know the answer.

“Mrs. DeLuca…” He started.

“Liz, call me Liz.” She told him.

“You might want to sit down.” Liz’s face dropped, but she sat down, clutching Maria’s hand in hers. “I’ve been running tests and it appears that your daughter has Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.”

“Leukemia… like cancer?” Liz exclaimed. “No, you’re wrong. She doesn’t have cancer.”

“Liz…” Maria said, placing a hand on her shoulder. “Calm down and listen to what he has to say.”

“Sorry.” Liz told Max. “Go ahead.”

“What this means… in basic terms… is that there are too many underdeveloped white blood cells. These are called lymphocytes. Anyway, these lymphocytes crowd out the Red Blood Cells and therefore your child isn’t getting enough oxygen, or they can spread to other organs such as the brain or the spinal cord.”

“So… what can you do? Is she going to die?” Liz asked, panicking. “She can’t die.”

“Mrs. DeLuca… er… Liz, there are treatments available for your daughter. Chemotherapy is an option. There is also Radiation therapy, and bone marrow transplant.” Dr. Evans told her. “While there is no cure for cancer, there is the chance that she could recover and be in remission. She could live life normally. We just need to start treating it as soon as possible.”

Liz nodded. “Can I see her?” She asked.

Dr. Evans nodded. “Yeah, I’ll take you to her.”

Liz looked at Maria and she weakly smiled. “I’ll be back.” She told them.

Maria nodded, and Michael put his arm around her. Liz followed the doctor to the pediatrics ward. It broke her heart to see all the sick little kids, and it broke her heart even more to know that her daughter was now one of them.

“Hi Momma!” A cheerful, brunette said from the bed. She was sitting up, eating Jell-o and watching cartoons. “Did you meet Dr. Max? He’s really nice.” She said with a smile.

“Yeah I did Baby.” Liz said, trying to hold back her tears. She sat down on the bed next to her daughter and kissed her forehead. “Are you feeling better?” She asked.

Marissa nodded. “Oh yeah, lots. Dr. Max gave me some shots, but they didn’t hurt too bad.”

“You got a pretty brave six year old there.” Dr. Evans said. “She didn’t cry at all.”

“No I didn’t!” She said proudly. “Aren’t you glad Momma?”

Liz stroked Marissa’s hair, pushing some of her brown waves behind her ears. “Of course I’m glad, sweetheart. I knew you’d be brave.” She forced a smile, for nothing more than the sake of her child. “Your Aunt Maria and Uncle Michael are here.” Liz told her.

The little girl’s face lit up with glee. “Yay! Can I see Uncle Mikey and Auntie Maria? Can I Dr. Max.”

Max laughed a little. “Of course you can. Why don’t you let your Mom go get them, and then your Mom and I can talk while they are visiting with you.”

“Yay!” She said, clapping her hands together.

“I’ll be right back sweetheart.” Liz said, smoothing down Marissa’s hair once more.

Dr. Evans walked with Liz back to the waiting room. “She’s such a strong little girl.” He told her.

“She’s had to be. She was 4 when her Father died. It was hard on her.” She told him.

“I can imagine.” He said.

“She wants to see you guys.” Liz told Maria and Michael. “I need to talk to Dr. Evans, so you can go ahead and go in.”

“Ok, we’ll talk to you in a few minutes.” Maria said, squeezing Liz’s hand.

Once Maria and Michael were gone, Max started talking. “In my professional opinion it would be best if Marissa stayed here. We have a wonderful pediatric wing. There are kids with cases just likes hers. Plus, the treatments are going to be hard on her.”

“And what if I don’t want her to stay here?” Liz challenged.

Dr. Evans shrugged. “At this point, I can’t force you to make her stay here, but I’m just telling you what I recommend. We have nurses and doctors on staff all night, and I’m on call 24 hours a day. If anything happens to her, I’ll be only a phone call away.”

Liz sighed, and sat down in a chair. “This is all just so… I don’t know what to do. When Sean died, Marissa was the only thing keeping me going, and now… I can’t lose her too.”

“I promise you that Marissa will receive the best care possible. She’s an extraordinary little girl and I know she can recover from this.”

Liz nodded. “Ok, if you think it’s best.”

“I do.”

“I need to go talk to her… and then go home and get her some things.”

“Bring whatever she’ll need to feel at home. I’ll make sure she has her own room, and there’ll be an extra bed. You can stay overnight whenever you want.”

“Ok.” Liz said. “Thank you.”

* * *

“Michael Guerin, stop that right now!” Maria scolded. Liz laughed when she saw Michael tossing M&M’s into Marissa’s mouth.

“Look Momma, I caught it in my mouth!” Marissa squealed.

“I see that sweetheart.” Liz sat down on the bed, like she had a few minutes before. “Marissa, I have to tell you something ok.”

“Ok.” Marissa said. “What is it?” She asked.

“Well Dr. Max and I talked and we thought it would be best if you stayed here.”

Marissa frowned. “Stayed here? But I want to go home!” She exclaimed.

“I know, but you are sick and Dr. Max is going to help you get better.” Liz tried to explain, without scaring her.

“But I feel fine.” She whined. “I want to be with you Mommy, not here. Please don’t make me stay here.” It took everything Liz had to keep from crying. She grabbed Marissa’s hand.

“I know baby, I want you to come home, but you can’t. But I’ll be here with you ok? I’ll stay with you.”

“You promise you will stay with me?” Marissa asked, holding tightly to Liz’s hand.

“I promise.” Liz said. “But I have to go home and get you some things. Anything in particular you want me to bring you?” Liz asked.

“Mr. Fluffy.” Marissa told her. “And some books. And my blankie…”

“Ok, I’ll bring all of that.”

“Don’t be gone too long Momma.” Marissa said.

Liz kissed her on the cheek. “I won’t.”

“We’ll stay with you until she gets back.” Michael told Marissa. “We’ll have a lot of fun, won’t we?” He asked her.

“Yeah! Uncle Mikey is the funnest guy I know. Him and Uncle Kyle.” Marissa said.

“Hey, I’m more fun than Kyle!” Michael exclaimed.

Marissa giggled. “See, he’s so funny.”

“I’ll be back as soon as possible, ok sweetheart?”

“Ok, bye Momma!”

“I love you Maris.”

“Love you too.” Marissa smacked a kiss on her cheek.

“Thank you.” Liz told Maria and Michael.

“No problem chica.” Maria hugged her. “We’ll be here when you get back.” She said.

“Ok, bye.”

Liz grabbed her keys from her purse and started towards the door. Once she reached her car, she got in, and the tears poured down her cheeks.

RoswellChic4Ever · Post by **RoswellChic4Ever** » Thu May 20, 2004 2:30 pm

Part 2

Max Evans was sitting in his office staring at a pile of papers on his desk. He should have been doing paperwork, but all he could think about was that beautiful little girl and her gorgeous mother.

Max was the kind of doctor that wore his heart on his sleeve. Getting new sick patients was always very hard on him, especially since they were kids. He always felt extremely sorry for them, and hoped to do whatever he could to make them feel better, or at least more comfortable. This case however was different.

Max felt drawn to Marissa DeLuca for some reason. He felt like he had no choice but to give her all of his attention and his best care. He wanted to spend time with her, and get to know her, like she was his own daughter. He couldn’t figure it out.

Of course then he met her Mother, Liz DeLuca, who had to be the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen. She had long, dark, brown hair and beautiful brown eyes. She was simple, yet classy in everything that she did. He had been watching her for the past few days as she interacted with her child, her friends, and even the hospital staff. She was an extraordinary woman, but she would have to be seeing as how she was raising a little girl all by herself.

Max couldn’t figure out what was so special about this family, but he also couldn’t fight the fact that he was drawn to them, and he wanted to spend as much time around them as he could.

“Dr. Evans?” Max looked up from his paperwork and smiled at his sister.

“Hi Isabel, what brings you to this side of town?” He asked, motioning for her to come in and sit down.

“Oh nothing, I was having lunch with a co-worker so I thought I would stop by and say hello and tell you that Mom and Dad are coming to town next week.”

“And that couldn’t have been taken care of by a phone call?” Max said, raising an eyebrow.

Isabel frowned. “Can’t a girl just come visit her baby brother? Is that a crime now?”

“Isabel… why don’t you just tell Dr. Max what your problem is, and I’ll see if I can fix it for you.”

Isabel sighed. “Mom and Dad are coming next week and I haven’t told them that Jesse and I are uh… separated yet.”

“Isabel!” Max exclaimed. “You and Jesse have been separated for two months! You haven’t told Mom and Dad?”

Isabel shook her head. “I don’t want to disappoint them. It’s just… Jesse and I had this whirlwind romance and got married to quickly. Mom and Dad told me not to get married and I didn’t listen. Now they are going to be like, ‘we told you so Isabel.’ and I just can’t handle that right now.”

“Excuse me Dr… Oh I’m sorry…” Liz looked embarrassed. “I’ll just come back later.”

“No, Liz, what is it?” He asked, standing up. “Is Marissa ok?”

“Oh yeah!” Liz exclaimed. “She’s fine, I was just going to tell you that Maria and I are going to take her outside for a little while. Is that ok?” She asked.

“Oh yeah, that’s fine. I’ll come find you when I’m done here.” Max told her.

Liz smiled. “Ok great.” Liz left the room and Isabel smirked at Max.

“What?” He asked, sitting back down.

“Who’s that?” Isabel asked.

“Liz DeLuca, her daughter was just diagnosed with ALL.” Max told her.

“Just a patient’s mother huh?” Isabel teased. “I saw the way you were looking at her. You like her.”

Max rolled his eyes. “Isabel, grow up. Now, you need to go and call our parents and tell them that your husband has moved out of your house. I have patients to attend to.”

“Patients… or their mothers?”

“Isabel…” Max pointed to the door. “I think you have something to do.”

Isabel pouted. “Fine.” She hugged her brother. “I’ll call you tonight.”

“Bye Isabel.”

Max went back to his desk and grabbed his cell phone off of his desk and shoved it in his pocket. It was time to go outside with Liz and Marissa.

* * *

“Marissa… sweetheart, please sit down.” Liz said to the little 6 year old. She had been sitting in a bed for days, and wanted to go outside, but Liz didn’t want her running around, or getting hurt.

“Liz, she’s fine.” Maria told her. “She’s just being a kid.”

“Yeah, but she’s a kid with cancer.” Liz snapped, then immediately felt bad. “I’m sorry Maria.”

Maria shrugged. “It’s ok. I understand. I wouldn’t be able to handle myself as well as you do. I’d be a wreck.” She told her best friend.

“I am a wreck Maria, you just can’t see it.” She said quietly. Maria squeezed her hand tightly and gave her a weak smile.

“So on a lighter note…” Maria started. “Is Marissa’s doctor a babe or what?” She said giggling. “Maybe I should check myself into the cancer ward.”

Liz rolled her eyes. “I don’t think Michael would be too happy about that.”

“Well, then you should pursue that avenue. He’s hot and I’ve seen him checking you out.”

“Maria!” Liz exclaimed. “That’s not true. And I think he’s married or at least dating someone.”

“I didn’t see a wedding ring on his finger.” Maria told her.

“I went to his office and there was a woman in there with him. Besides… I’m not ready to date. I mean, my husband just died and my daughter has cancer…”

“Liz… Sean died 2 years ago. And I know my brother, and I know that he would want you to move on and be happy.”

Liz nodded. “Someday Maria, but no today.” She looked at Marissa who was sitting in the grass, just soaking up the warm California sun. “Besides, I have Marissa to worry about now. She’s my first priority.”

“Well, just don’t cut yourself off from the world ok Lizzie.”

“I won’t… Oh… that reminds me…” Liz said. “My Mom and Dad are coming to town next week. They are coming with some friends of theirs that have kids here.”

“Oh, your parents huh?” Maria asked, knowing that Liz and her parents didn’t get along to well. Not since she got pregnant and married to Sean DeLuca, town rebel.

“Yeah, they want to see Marissa.”

“Have you told them about her?”

Liz nodded. “Yeah, I called my Mom yesterday. That’s when she told me that they had plans to come visit.” Liz sighed.

“Well that should be interesting.” Maria said.

“Marissa!” Liz called to the little girl, who was currently running around, chasing something. “Stop running around.”

“Momma, I gotta catch the butterfly!” She exclaimed.

Liz stood up and caught Marissa, resting her on her side. “Marissa, what did I tell you about running around? You’re sick remember. Do you want to get more sick?”

Marissa shook her head. “No, I’m sorry Momma.”

Liz kissed her forehead. “It’s ok, just don’t do it anymore.”

“Ok.” Liz set her down and Marissa went back to just sitting in the sun, playing with the grass.

Liz sat back down with Maria. “Here comes your boyfriend.” Maria said, nodding in Max’s direction.

“Maria…” Liz said, her tone a warning.

Maria giggled. “Sorry.”

“Hello ladies.” Max said, taking a seat next to Liz.

“Hi Dr. Evans.” Liz said.

“Oh Max, please… call me Max.”

“Ok, Max.”

“How’s Marissa doing today?” He asked.

“She seems ok.” Liz told him.

“Good, we should be ready to start the chemo in a few days.” He told her.

Liz nodded. “Ok, well next Wednesday my parents are coming into town and I was wondering if Marissa will be well enough to go out to dinner with them? I know, that she should be in the hospital, but I’d really like her to go with me.”

Max scratched his eyebrow. “I think that can we worked out. We just will have to make sure she’s feeling ok.”

Liz smiled. “Thank you. I really appreciate everything you’re doing for Marissa.”

Max shrugged. “Just doing my job.”

“Well, I’m going to go play with Marissa.” Maria said, finding a break in their conversation. “Liz, you really should get something to eat. You haven’t eaten anything today.”

Max looked at Liz. “I would love to treat you to lunch.” He said. “In the hospital cafeteria of course because I can’t leave, but… the food isn’t that bad.”

Liz bit her bottom lip. “I dunno…” She said hesitantly.

“Oh Lizzie, go. I am capable of staying with Marissa. I’ll take her inside in a few minutes and get her to take a nap.”

“Maria, are you sure…?”

“Liz, go!” Maria demanded. “Go have a nice lunch with Dr. Max here.”

Liz looked at Max. “Well… ok.” She said. “But take Marissa inside ok Maria?”

Maria grinned. “Ok, you two have fun now!” She called as they walked away. Liz turned around and shot her a glare, then continued walking with Max.

“Where’s Momma going?” Marissa asked, as Maria picked her up.

“She’s going to have lunch with Dr. Max.” Maria told her.

“I like Dr. Max. He’s very nice. I think he likes my Momma too. He always looks at her this certain way… like Uncle Mikey looks at you.”

Maria raised an eyebrow. “Uncle Mikey looks at me a
certain way huh? You’ll have to tell me all about that.” Maria carried her inside and set her on her bed in her room.

Marissa yawned and laid back on her pillows. “I’m tired now.” She said.

“Ok.” Maria kissed her on the cheek. “Go to sleep.”

“Night Auntie Maria.”

“Night Maris. I love you.” She sad.

“Wuv you too.” Marissa closed her eyes and within a few moments Maria heard the soft sound of her snoring. She smiled, and pushed a few stray hairs out of the little girl’s face. She was such a great little girl, so strong, and she had been through enough in her life. She didn’t deserve this, no child did.

She let a tear fall down her cheek as she thought about her brother, and now her niece. Life just wasn’t fair.

RoswellChic4Ever · Post by **RoswellChic4Ever** » Sun May 23, 2004 10:04 pm

sweetbrowneyes - Welcome! I am glad that you like this. Marissa is sweet isn't she? I adore her! haha... thanks for leaving your FB. I really appreciate it.

BehrsGirl77 - Welcome to you as well. Glad to have you on board. Glad that you like this. Hope that I make all of you Dreamer's proud! LOL

Natz - Thanks for the FB. Glad you like it! Here's your update!

roswellluver - Poor Marissa is right. There are more hard times for her ahead too... Thanks for reading and leaving FB. I appreciate it!

nayney - Welcome! Glad you are enjoying this! Hope you like the next part!

LittleHottie510 - I completely agree with you about Max being sexy as hell with a Dr. in front of it! HAHA I always pictured Max has being a doctor. And trust me, the parentals coming to town will be very interesting. That's coming up soon. Thanks for reading!

And too all the lurkers! Thanks for reading!!!

Part 3

Liz couldn’t help but notice that Dr. Max Evans was extremely good looking. She hadn’t really paid too much attention to it, but once Maria brought it up, she couldn’t help but feel a sort of attraction to him. He was drop dead gorgeous, sweet, funny, and he was a doctor. What more could you ask for in a guy?

Liz tried to push these thoughts from her head; she couldn’t get attached to anyone. It wasn’t a good time, but she couldn’t stop thinking what if. What if Max was the one, what if he liked her back? She couldn’t push it from her brain.

“Liz? Are you ok?” His voice brought her back to reality and she smiled.

“Yeah sorry.” She told him.

“Where’d you go?” He asked.

She shrugged. “I was just thinking about Marissa.” She lied. She hadn’t been thinking about Marissa at all. She had been thinking about him.

“Understandable.” He said, nodding.

“So, thank you for lunch.” She said.

“Not a problem. It was my pleasure. Maybe one day we could get lunch somewhere that’s not the hospital… or maybe even dinner.” He said casually.

An alarm went off in Liz’s brain. Is he asking me out on a date? Does he like me? What about that girl in his office this morning? Oh my God, I’m not ready for this. But at that particular moment, her brain wasn‘t controlling her mouth. “That sounds great.” Her heart was.

“Good.” He said.

“Liz?” Liz turned around and a huge grin spread across her face. There stood a tall, lanky, yet extremely good-looking man. He wore a nice suit, and carried a briefcase.

“Alex!” She cried in happiness. She jumped up and hugged her old friend tightly. “God, I’ve missed you so much! What are you doing here?”

“I came to see Marissa.”

“Alex, you didn’t have to do that!” Liz exclaimed.

“I wanted to Liz, I wanted to come and help you. I know that you need it.”

“But Alex… what about work?” She asked.

Alex looked at her sternly. “Liz, I’m here, I’m helping, and you have no say in it. Now just tell me you love me and everything will be ok.”

Liz couldn’t help but smile. “I love you Alex!” Liz turned back and remembered Max. “Oh Alex, I want you to meet Max Evans, this is Marissa’s doctor.”

Max stood up and shook Alex’s hand. “Alex Whitman, it’s nice to meet you.” Alex said.

“It’s nice to meet you as well.” Max said. He then looked at his watch. “Liz, I have to go do my rounds, but I’ll see you later.”

“Alright, by Max. Thanks for lunch.”

Max left and Alex sat down in his place. “Max huh? So uh… what’s going on there?” Alex asked.

Liz rolled her eyes. “You and Maria are exactly alike you know that. Nothing, he’s Marissa’s doctor.” She told him.

“So you and him spent the whole time talking about Marissa?” He asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Um… well… no.” She said.

Alex smirked. “That guy has a major thing for you Liz. I could see it in his eyes, and you don’t exactly hate him either.”

Liz took a sip of her water. “Alex, we are just friends… not even that really. Just acquaintances.” She told him.

Alex nodded. “Uh huh, I gotcha Liz.” He said sarcastically.

Liz groaned. “I can’t win.”

Alex laughed. “So where is my little princess?” He asked, changing the subject.

“Maria was going to take her to her room and get her to take a nap. Let’s go see if she’s awake.”

“Sounds great!” Alex put his arm around Liz and the two old friends walked to the pediatric wing.

* * *

“Aww… how cute.” Alex whispered, as he and Liz walked into Marissa’s room. Liz smiled seeing Marissa fast asleep with her stuffed bunny, Mr. Fluffy in her arms, and Maria sleeping in the chair next to her bed.

Liz gently shook Maria. “Maria, wake up.” She whispered.

Maria groaned. “5 more minutes.”

Liz and Alex tried to stifle their chuckles, so as to not wake Marissa.

“Maria, it’s Liz. Wake up.”

Maria shook, and sat up. “What’s wrong? Is Marissa ok?” She asked hurriedly. “ALEX!” She squealed in excitement.

“SHHH!!!” Alex and Liz said at the same time.

Maria bit her bottom lip. “Sorry.” She whispered. She hugged Alex tightly. “It’s so good to see you!” She exclaimed.

“It’s good to see you too Maria. How’s Michael?”

Maria smiled. “He’s Michael… that’s all there really is to say.” Alex laughed. “So how long are you staying for?” Maria asked.

Alex shrugged. “However long you need me.” He replied.

Liz frowned. “Alex, you have work and a wife at home. You can’t just stay in California, when everything you have is in New York.”

Alex put a hand on Liz’s shoulder. “Liz, you and Maria have been my best friends since forever, and you need me here. My company, that I own, will be fine. They can manage without me and they can always call me. My wife, is probably off sleeping with some other guy as we speak. She’s probably excited that I’m gone.”

“Alex, what are you talking about?” Maria asked, shocked at Alex’s comments.

“Meredith only married me for my money. She doesn’t love me. That’s fine, I’m filing for divorce anyway and thanks to the prenuptial agreement I encouraged her to sign one night when she was very drunk, my money will stay with me.”

Liz and Maria couldn’t help but laugh. It was so typical Alex to have people signing important documents when they were intoxicated or incoherent due to another handicap. Alex shrugged. “You gotta do, what you gotta do.” Alex replied.

“Momma…” A faint voice whispered from the bed. Liz immediately turned her attention to the small figure calling her name.

“Hey Baby.” She said, running a hand through her hair. “How do you feel?”

“My throat hurts.” She put a hand on her neck.

“I know, Dr. Max says that’s common. Pretty soon you’ll feel better.”

“Hey Princess.” Alex said, coming up behind Liz.

“Hi Uncle Alex.” She said weakly.

Alex kissed her on the forehead. “I’ve missed you.” He told her. “And guess what I brought.”

Marissa’s face immediately brightened. “The computer?” She asked excitedly.

Alex unzipped his briefcase and pulled out a small laptop. “Yup!” He said.

“YAY!” She exclaimed. “And I got you something else.”

“What?!?!”

Alex pulled out a gift and handed it to Marissa. She quickly unwrapped it. “Barbie Mermaid Adventure! COOL!” She squealed. “Thanks Uncle Alex!”

“Alex…” Liz said. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“Liz, I own a computer company. I get all that shit in the mail for free. It's really not a problem.”

Liz laughed. “Thanks Alex. I’m sure that will keep her occupied for hours.”

Alex set up the laptop and the game for Marissa and she was immediately submerged in the game.

“What’s going on in here?” Max asked, coming in the room.

“Uncle Alex brought the computer and a game Dr. Max! Do you want to play?” She asked.

Max smiled. “Not right now, but maybe later.”

“Ok.” She went back to playing the game.

“How is she?” Max asked Liz.

“She said her throat was hurting.” Liz told him.

He nodded. “Ok, we’re going to start the chemotherapy tomorrow.”

Liz sighed. “Ok.”

Alex put an arm around her. “How is that going to affect Marissa?” He asked.

“Well, she’ll be sick to her stomach, very susceptible to infection, and she may lose her hair.” He said.

“But it’ll grow back right?” Maria asked.

“Yeah.” Max replied. “Marissa has a definite chance for a full recovery. We just need to get this treated.”

“Thank you.” Liz said. “You’ve really been great.”

Max smiled. “Well, she’s a very special little girl.” He told them.

“Hey Liz, I hate to bail, but I have to get home and make sure Michael has some dinner.” Maria said.

“Ok, will you go by my place and make sure everything is ok?” Liz asked.

Maria nodded. “Yeah.” She hugged Liz. “I’ll see you in the morning.” She said.

“Ok, bye Maria.”

Maria hugged Alex. “I’m glad you’re here Alex.” Maria told him.

Alex kissed her on the cheek. “Glad to be here. See you later Maria.”

“Bye Max.” Maria headed out.

“I’ll be back in a little bit.” Max said. “I have a few things to take care of, and then I’ll talk to Marissa about her treatments.”

“Ok, thanks.” Liz said.

“No problem.”

Liz and Alex sat in chairs, close enough to Marissa to keep an eye on her, but far enough away that she wasn’t in earshot.

“So how are you holding up? Really?” Alex asked.

Liz forced a smile. “I’m fine Alex.” Alex frowned at her. “Really.”

“Liz, when was the last time you went to work?” Alex asked.

Liz bit her bottom lip. “That’s what I thought. You haven’t been there since Marissa was admitted to the hospital have you?” Liz shook her head. “Liz, I hate to be the bad guy, but how are you going to pay all of these hospital bills? What about your house and stuff?”

Liz shrugged. “I don’t know, I mean… I haven’t thought about it. Marissa’s sick Alex, I can’t just leave her here alone.”

“How are you going to take care of her when she gets out of the hospital? I know you won’t leave her with a babysitter.”

“Alex, I don’t know what else to do.” She said.

Alex nodded. “I’m going to help you.” He told her, grabbing her hand.

“How?” She asked.

“I’m going to stay at your place, help you with things around the house, so you can be here. I’ll take care of Marissa’s hospital bills and whatever bills you need me to pay at home.”

Liz shook her head. “No, Alex, I can’t ask you to do that.”

“Liz, you didn’t ask me. I’m offering. You need help.”

“Alex. No.” Liz said sternly.

“Liz, you’ve barely been making enough money to keep the house and support yourself and Marissa. How do you think you can pay your bills with no job, not to mention how much this hospital stay is costing you?”

“We have insurance.” Liz argued.

“And it doesn’t cover everything I guarantee it. Liz, please let me help you. I have plenty of money.”

“Alex, you can’t leave New York for that long of a time. Your company…”

Alex cut her off. “Will be fine. I can do what I need to do from here. I can fly back and forth if there’s a problem. Liz, I’ve thought about this and I’m not taking no for an answer.” A tear rolled down Liz’s cheek and Alex wiped it away with his thumb. “I want to tell you Liz, please let me.”

“Thank you Alex.” Liz said. “I’ll pay you back. I promise.”

“Uncle Alex! Come look!” Marissa called from the bed. Alex squeezed Liz’s hand, then went over to Marissa.

“Wow, that’s pretty neat!” Alex exclaimed.

Liz watched her daughter and Alex play on the computer and she let out a sigh. Maybe, just maybe, things would be ok.

RoswellChic4Ever · Post by **RoswellChic4Ever** » Mon May 24, 2004 9:45 pm

Part 4

She had been reading Marissa a story when there was a knock, so quiet on the door, she almost didn’t hear it. She turned around quickly and saw two friends standing in the doorway with a little boy in between them.

“Hey Liz.” Kyle Valenti said.

Liz smiled. “Hey guys.” She stood up and walked towards the couple, hugging them both. She then kneeled down and ruffled the little boy’s hair. “Hey Hayden.”

“Hi Aunt Liz. Can Marissa play?” He asked.

Liz frowned. “You can go sit on the bed with her and play on the computer, but that’s about all.”

“Ok.” He said.

Tess lifted Hayden in her arms and they all walked farther into the room.

“Hi!” Marissa said from the bed.

“Hi.” Hayden waved from his Mother’s arms. Tess sat him on the bed.

“How are you Marissa?” Kyle asked.

“I’m great! Uncle Alex brought me the computer and got me a new game!” She exclaimed.

Tess and Kyle smiled. “That’s great sweetheart.” Tess said.

Liz set up the laptop, setting it on a little tray table.

“Barbie!” Hayden exclaimed. “Barbie is stupid.” He said.

“Is not!” Marissa said, sticking out her tongue at her friends.

“Yeah huh, Barbie is for girls.”

“I am a girl stupid.” Marissa snapped.

“Marissa!” Liz exclaimed. “That wasn’t very nice! Apologize to Hayden right now.” She demanded.

“Sorry.” She said.

Liz sighed and turned back to Tess and Kyle. “It’s good to see you guys.” She said.

“Well we were going to come sooner, but things have been hectic. We’re sorry.” Kyle told her.

“Oh it’s ok. I understand.” She told them.

“So how is everything?” Tess asked.

“It’s going ok. She starts her chemotherapy tomorrow. They aren’t going to start radiation therapy just yet. Max wants to see how she reacts to the chemo.”

“Max?” Kyle asked.

“Marissa’s doctor.” Liz told him.

“Oh.”

“Yeah, so we’ll see how it goes. I’m nervous.” Liz admitted.

“It’s ok to be.” Tess told her. “This isn’t easy.”

“Maria told me that Alex is in town.” Kyle said.

Liz nodded. “Yeah, he’s staying at my place. He was coming back with some dinner, but he wanted to shower first.”

“Momma!” Marissa called from her bed.

“What sweetheart?” Liz asked.

“I’m hungry.” She whined.

“I know, Uncle Alex will be here soon.” Liz told her.

Marissa pouted. “I’m hungry now!” She exclaimed. “And I want to go play outside. I’m bored in this stupid bed.”

“Marissa, you got to play outside today. It’s dark now.” Liz told her.

“Fine.” She said, defeated.

“Hello Mrs. DeLuca.” A nurse said, coming in the room.

“Hi Carol.” Liz said.

“I’m just checking up on little Marissa here.” She said.

“Hi Carol!” Marissa said, her bad mood completely disappearing.

“Hello darling. How are you feeling?”

“Hayden, come here.” Tess said. The little boy jumped off the bed. “We need to get going.” Tess told Liz.

“Ok.” Liz said.

“Bye.” Hayden said to Marissa.

“Bye Hayden! Bye Aunt Tess and Uncle Kyle.” She said, waving.

“Bye honey, we’ll come visit you later ok?” Kyle said, kissing her on the cheek.

“Ok bye bye.”

“Carol, I’m going to get a drink. I’ll be right back.” Liz told her.

“Ok.”

Liz walked into the hallway and towards the vending machine. She bought a water and then took a seat on a small couch outside Marissa’s room. She was exhausted. She hadn’t slept well in days, and she was always up early with Marissa, and then up late, trying to get her to sleep.

“Tired?” Liz looked up and smiled at Max.

“A little.” She told him.

He sat down next to her, their bodies touching slightly.

“You should go home and get some rest.” He told her.

Liz shook her head. “I can’t, I can’t leave her here. I wouldn’t be able to sleep at home without her anyway.”

“I understand. Most parents feel that way. I just want to warn you that the next few weeks are going to be rough. The chemo isn’t pretty.”

“That’s what I’m scared of.” She admitted, a tear rolling down her cheek.

Max placed a hand on her cheek, wiping the tears away. “It’ll be ok.” He said. “I promise you that Marissa is receiving the best care possible.”

Liz looked into his eyes. They were deep brown, so… beautiful. A person could get lost in eyes like those. His hand was touching her face, and she felt her heart skip a beat. She hadn’t felt like this in years, like a teenage girl with a crush on the captain of the football team. But Max, sitting here, touching her face, comforting her, made her crazy. She just wanted to kiss him. He must have felt the same way. He leaned in and she took a deep breath.

“Hey, who wants Tacos?” The moment was over.

Liz moved as far away from Max was possible and smiled at Alex. “Alex! Glad you are back.” She said nervously. “Max was just telling me about uh… Marissa’s treatments.”

“Oh ok.” Alex said with a smile. “Well dinner is here. Max, I have enough if you want some.”

Max shook his head. “No thanks. I should be going.”

Liz stood up and wiped her hands on her jeans. Her palms were sweaty. “Marissa is really hungry.”

“Ok, well I’ll just take this in to her.” Alex gave her a funny look then went into the room.

“Umm, so, tomorrow, chemo. What time?” Liz asked, as if nothing had happened.

“Oh umm…” Max cleared his throat. “How about 10 am?” He asked.

Liz nodded. “Sounds great. See ya then.” She said.

“Yeah, see ya.” Liz watched as Max headed down the hallway and leaned up against the wall. She definitely had a thing for Dr. Max Evans.

* * *

“Good morning Marissa.” Max said. “Ready for your first treatment?” He asked.

She shrugged. “Sure, what’s it gonna do?” She asked.

“Well, I’m going to hook you up to an IV and then put some medicine in it, that will go into your body and it will kill the bad cells that are making you sick.” He told her. That was the simplest he could get it for a 6 year old to understand.

“Ok. Will it hurt?” She asked.

“A little pinch, like when you got your shots, but nothing major. But afterwards you might feel a little funny. And you need to tell me or your Mom if you feel any discomfort ok?” He explained.

She nodded. “Ok.”

“We’re going to take you down to another room, and then when we are done, we’ll bring you back here.”

“Alright.” She looked at Liz. “Will you be here when I get back?” She asked.

“Of course I will.” Liz lifted her into her arms and kissed her on the forehead. “I’ll be here waiting for you.”

“Ok, good. Just don’t go away.” She said. “And I won’t go away either.” She said.

Liz frowned. “Why would you go away?” She asked.

“When Daddy was sick in the hospital he went away.” Marissa said. “He went with the angels, remember.”

“Oh sweetheart.” Liz cried. “You aren’t going anywhere. You’re going to be just fine.” She ran her fingers through her hair. “I promise. Dr. Max is going to take good care of you.” Liz sat Marissa down in the wheelchair they had brought for her and kneeled in front of her. “I’ll see you in just a little while ok?” She said.

Marissa nodded. “Ok.”

“Ready Marissa?” Max asked.

“Yup.” She said.

“It shouldn’t take too long.” Max told Liz.

“Alright. See you guys in a little bit.”

Max pushed the wheelchair towards the door. “Faster Dr. Max!” Marissa cried. Max and Liz laughed.

“I don’t think so Missy.” Max told her. “We’re going fast enough.”

Liz sat down on the bed and held Mr. Fluffy to her chest and watched them leave.

* * *

When Marissa came back, she didn’t look as cheery and awake as she had when she left. The nurse carefully lifted her into her bed and pulled the covers over her.

“Turn off the light.” Marissa whined. “It hurts my eyes.”

Liz immediately turned down the lights. “Is that better sweetheart? “She asked.

“Momma, shh… you’re too loud!”

Liz looked taken aback. The nurse motioned for her to go out the door.

“We gave Marissa a strong dose of Prednisone. She’ll be super sensitive to light and sounds. Nightmares and restlessness are common, along with nervousness, hyperactivity and irritability.”

“Oh great.” Liz said sarcastically.

“Dr. Evans will be up to check on her in a little bit.”

“Thanks.” Liz went back into the room and Marissa was just staring at the ceiling. “Marissa?” Liz said quietly.

“I don’t feel good Momma. Make it stop.” She complained. Liz went over to the bed and sat down.

“What’s wrong?” Liz asked.

“I want to go home.” She said.

“You can’t go home. You have to stay here.”

“I don’t want to stay here!” Marissa yelled.

Liz was taken aback. Where had that come from?
“Marissa…” Liz said.

“I hate the stupid hospital. Take me home!” She cried.

“Marissa, I can’t. You’re sick. Dr. Max said you have to stay here.”

Marissa started crying. “Please take me home. Mommy, please, I don’t want to stay here anymore.”

Liz tried so hard not to cry, as Marissa started sobbing. Liz just held her. “I’m sorry baby, I’m sorry.”

Liz gently rocked Marissa back and forth as she cried. “Please, don’t make me stay here.”

“You have to stay here.” She kept saying.

Marissa pushed Liz away. “I hate you Momma!” She sobbed.

Liz’s eyes grew wide. Those words coming from her baby’s mouth was possibly the most horrible thing she had ever heard in her life.

“Don’t say that Marissa. You don’t hate me.”

“Yes I do! You won’t take me home. I hate you.” Marissa grabbed Mr. Fluffy and turned on her side, clutching the rabbit and crying loudly. “And I hate the stupid hospital too!” She yelled.

“Marissa…” Liz said, touching her side.

“No, don’t touch me!” She screamed.

Liz felt the tears burning her eyes and she knew she had to get out of there. Carol, the nurse, walked in. “I heard yelling.” She said.

“It’s Marissa… it’s the medicine…” She tried so hard to keep her composure in front of the woman, but Carol knew she was about to break.

“Mrs. DeLuca, why don’t you go get some air. I’ll stay with Marissa.”

Liz nodded and left the room, she tried breathing deeply to calm herself, but nothing worked. She turned down an abandoned hallway and collapsed against the wall, sobbing so hard, she could barely breath.

She felt a pair of strong arms wrap around her and she looked up to see Max. “She said she hates me.” She choked out. “I’m trying so hard.”

“It’s ok.” Max said, running a hand through her hair. “Just let it out Liz.”

Liz buried her face in Max’s chest and cried, while he ran his hand up and down her back.

“I can’t lose her, I can’t.” She sobbed.

“You won’t.” He told her. “I won’t let that happen.”

“You don’t know that!” She cried. “God… what if…”

“Liz, I promise, I won’t let anything happen to Marissa.”

She looked up at him. “Why, why are you doing this? For her… for me… for us?” She asked.

“It’s my…” He started.

“No, it’s not your job.” She said between sobs. “You don’t take your other patient’s parents to lunch. You don’t hold their Mothers while they are sobbing. Why are you doing this?” She asked.

“Because…” Max hesitated. “Because I think I’m falling in love with you.” Max told her.

Liz suddenly stopped crying, and wiped her face with the back of her hand. “What?”

“I said I think I’m falling in love with you.” Max leaned down, and she could feel his breath on her face. “From the moment I saw you I’ve been captivated by everything you do. You’re beautiful, you’re kind, and you’re a great mother. How could I not be in love with you?”

Liz licked her lips, anticipating him kissing her. He gently pressed his lips to hers. Liz felt a warm tingle throughout her whole body, then coldness when his lips moved.

She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him closer, kissing him hard. His hands found her waist and he lifted her up from their sitting position, so that she was against the wall. His tongue probed her lips, wanting permission to enter. She parted her lips and pulled Max closer, deepening the kiss.

His hands roamed her sides, and she felt herself need more of him. Her mind was abuzz, she hadn’t felt like this in so long, that she needed Max more because of it.

His hands found their way up her shirt, touching her smooth skin, his hands caressing her back.

“Oh God.” He sighed when their lips parted. “Liz, I need you.” He wrapped his fingers in her hair, pressing his forehead to hers. “I want you so badly.”

Liz hesitated, regaining her composure. “I… I can’t… I can’t do this.” She said. “I’m sorry.” She pushed him away and ran down the hall. Max leaned up against the wall and sighed. What the hell had just happened?

RoswellChic4Ever · Post by **RoswellChic4Ever** » Sun May 30, 2004 10:17 pm

Part 4

“Ok so um… wait… you made out with Dr. Max?” Maria exclaimed.

“Maria! Shh…” Liz glared at her best friend.

Maria burst into giggles. “I knew you two had it for each other. So what happened?”

Liz bit her bottom lip. “I told him I couldn’t do it, and I ran away.”

Maria’s mouth fell. “What the hell is wrong with you? That man is hot and kind, and RICH!”

“I’m not ready.” Liz told her.

Maria rolled her eyes. “It’s about time you were ready Liz, because you aren’t getting any younger. And Max adores Marissa. I don’t see the big deal.”

“The big deal is my daughter has cancer and I’m making out with her doctor in an abandoned hospital hallway.”

Maria shrugged. “Not seeing the problem. I’d do him.”

“MARIA!”

“So has he said anything to you since?” Maria asked.

Liz shook her head. “No, I’ve been avoiding him.” She admitted.

“Momma! Where’s my lunch?” A little voice snapped. Liz forced a smile.

“It’s coming sweetheart.” She turned back to Maria. “I hate this medicine she is on. It makes her so mean.”

“I’ve noticed.” Maria told her.

“I WANT IT NOW!”

Liz sighed and sat on Marissa’s bed. “Sweetheart, it’s coming. Please calm down.”

“I want it, I’m hungry.” She whined.

“Well here’s your food princess!” Alex exclaimed, walking in the room.

“Yay!”

Alex gave Marissa a piece of pizza then joined Maria and Liz. “How is everyone today?” He asked in a chipper voice.

“Good.” Liz said, looking at him funny. “What’s with you?” She asked.

“I just met an Angel.” He said, sighing.

Maria and Liz laughed.

“Hey, be quiet. I’m trying to watch TV.” Marissa snapped.

“You what?” Maria asked, ignoring the child’s ill temper.

“I met this girl. Oh my God… not girl… woman. Tall, curvy, blonde, beautiful. I almost tripped over a chair when I saw her.”

Maria and Liz laughed all that harder at their friend.

“Hey! What’s so funny over there?” Marissa said, looking at the adults like they were crazy.

“That’s what I was just wondering.” Max said, entering the room.

The room became silent as Max’s gaze shifted to Liz. Her heart skipped a beat, and she looked down, her feet suddenly becoming very interesting.

“How are you feeling today Marissa?” Max asked, going over to her bed.

“I’m trying to eat and watch Blue‘s Clues, but Momma and Auntie Maria and Uncle Alex won’t be quiet.”

“We’re sorry.” Maria told her.

“Other than that, how are you feeling?” He asked.

She shrugged. “Fine.”

“That’s good.” He walked back over to Liz. “Is everything ok with her?” He asked, keeping up his professionalism.

She nodded. “She doesn’t sleep well and she has nightmares, but you said that’s normal. That and the fact that she’s very irritable.”

“Well Prednisone will do that. We’ll be lowering her doses within the next few weeks, so it should get better.” He explained.

Liz nodded. “Ok.”

“Also, I’m not going to be in the hospital tonight. I have plans, I’ll be on call if you need me.” He told her.

“Well, actually, I was hoping to take Marissa to dinner with my parents.” She said.

“That’s right, I remember. Ok, well let me give you my cell phone number so that you can call me if you need anything.” He said.

“Oh, um… ok.” Liz said. She couldn’t believe how nerve wracking this whole experience was.

They both went to reach for the pen and paper on the table when his hand brushed up against hers. He retracted it immediately.

“Sorry.” She mumbled. She grabbed hastily at the pad and pen and handed it to him.

He quickly wrote down his number and set it on the table. “Feel free to call if you need anything.” He told her.

She smiled. “Thank you.”

“Well… bye. See you tomorrow.”

She shifted her weight nervously. “Yeah, ok um… bye.”

“Bye Maria, bye Alex.” He nodded at him.

“Bye Dr. Max!” Marissa called from the bed.

“Bye Marissa, see you tomorrow.” He left the room and Liz let out a breath she didn’t even know she was holding.

“Awkward much?” Maria asked with a smirk.

Liz rolled her eyes at her best friend, but Maria was right, it was awkward, and Liz had a feeling, it would be that way for a while.

* * *

“I can’t believe I’m doing this.” Liz told Alex, as they walked into the Twin Palms restaurant.

“Pretty swanky place.” Alex said, looking around.

Liz snickered. “Yeah, like you don’t eat at places like this on a daily basis.”

Alex shrugged. “Hey, I told you, my money, is your money. You could eat at places like this whenever you wanted.”

“Momma, where’s grammy and grandpy?” Marissa asked. She was dressed in a cute little pink, summery dress and Liz had spent a long time making sure she looked cute, and not like a sick little girl. Of course Marissa, who usually would have loved playing dress up, threw an absolute fit and screamed and cried while Liz did her hair. Liz found herself cursing the Prednisone every minute of everyday.

“Oh my God!” Alex exclaimed, grabbing Liz’s arm. “Oh my God.”

“What?” Liz asked.

“It’s my Angel.” He said. “Sitting with your parents.”

“Oh my God!” Liz said. “That’s the woman I saw in Max’s office one day.”

Alex lifted Marissa into his arms and they made their way over to the table. “Liz!” Nancy Parker exclaimed, jumping from her seat. She grabbed her daughter and squeezed her tightly.

“Hi Mom.” Liz said. “Ok, I can’t breathe.”

Nancy let go of Liz and she then hugged her Dad. “Hi Dad.”

“Grammy!” Marissa exclaimed. Alex handed her over to Nancy and Jeff.

“Look at you, so big!” Nancy cooed over her only grandchild.

“Do you like my dress?” She asked, tugging at it. “Momma and I spent a long time getting ready.”

“Yeah, it was such a joy.” Liz mumbled. Alex was the only one to hear her, and he chuckled slightly.

“Sorry I’m late…” A voice said. Liz turned around and gasped. “Liz.” He said, startled.

Liz stared at the tall man standing before her, and she had a feeling of dread. This must be her parent’s friends’ son. Her voice caught in her throat. “Max.”

RoswellChic4Ever · Post by **RoswellChic4Ever** » Fri Jun 04, 2004 1:20 am

Part 5

“You two know each other already?” Jeff Parker asked.

Liz forced a smile and nodded. “Max is um… Marissa’s doctor.” Liz told them.

“What a coincidence!” A lady, who Liz assumed must be Max’s Mother, exclaimed.

“Hi Dr. Max!” Marissa waved from her Grandmother’s arms.

“Hey Marissa.” He smiled.

“Well Liz, we’d like you to meet our good friends Diane and Phillip Evans.” Jeff said, motioning to them.

“It’s nice to meet you.” Liz said, shaking both of their hands. “This is my friend Alex, and of course my daughter Marissa.”

“Nice to meet you all.” Diane said. Liz took Marissa from Nancy and placed her in a seat between herself and Alex. Max then sat down next to her, because coincidently, there were no more open seats.

Alex smiled at Isabel. “Alex Whitman.” He said, taking her hand. “I saw you at the hospital the other day.” He told her.

“Isabel Evans… and yeah, I kind of remember seeing you as well. Didn’t you trip over a chair?”

Alex blushed and Liz laughed. “Yeah that was me.” He admitted.

She flashed him a smile. “It happens to the best of us.” She told him.

“Alex Whitman? As in Whitman Tech?” Phillip asked.

Alex smoothed out the napkin in his lap and cleared his throat. Liz laughed internally. Alex was such a geek most of the time, but when he got started on his job, he did a total 180 and became very professional.

“Yes, I built that company.” He told them.

“That’s a huge accomplishment for someone your age!” Phillip exclaimed.

“Thank you, I’ve worked very hard.”

“Sounds like it.” Phillip sounded very impressed and Isabel watched him intently.

“I’ve seen you and your wife on the cover of Business Weekly.” Diane said.

Isabel’s gaze dropped. “Oh well… Actually, Meredith and I are umm… separated.” He told them.

“Isabel and her husband just recently separated as well.” Diane told him.

“Mom!” Isabel exclaimed.

“Sorry sweetheart.” Diane said.

* * *

“What did you get again Jeff?” Phillip asked as the food was brought out.

“Moroccan Spiced Leg of Lamb.” He told his good friend.

“Sounds good.”

“Momma! I don’t want this.” Marissa whined.

Liz tried to stay calm, but Marissa’s attitude was starting to get on her last nerve. “It’s just pasta sweetheart. You love pasta.” She told the little girl, cutting up the pasta for her.

“No I don’t!” She slammed her fists on the table.

“Marissa!” Liz exclaimed. She kept her calm. “Then what is it you want? What are you hungry for?” She asked.

“Peanut butter and jelly.” Marissa told Liz.

Liz nodded. “Let me see what we can do about that.” Liz started to get up.

“Marissa, sweetheart…” Nancy started; not realizing Marissa’s medicine was what made her so irritable. “Why don’t you just eat your pasta honey?”

“NO! I don’t want too!” She yelled.

“Marissa, you will eat this pasta.” Nancy instructed.

“NO!” Marissa burst into tears and Liz sighed in frustration.

“You couldn’t just leave well enough alone, could you Mom?” Liz snapped. “I could have gotten her a sandwich.”

“Liz! You can’t be such a pushover. She can eat the pasta. It’s fine.” Nancy told her.

Liz was outraged. What did her Mother know about raising a child with cancer? What did she know about the chemo or radiation, and here she was just giving Liz orders, and judging her parenting skills.

“You know what Mom? Marissa and I have gotten along just fine without you for the past 6 years. We don’t need your help now!” Liz exclaimed.

“Mommy!” Marissa pulled on her arm. “I want to go now.” She cried.

Liz lifted Marissa into her arms. She smiled at the Evans. “It was nice meeting. I’m really sorry.” She told them. She then turned to her Mother and glared. “We’re leaving. Don’t bother calling. Have a nice trip back to Roswell.”

“Liz…” Alex started.

“Alex, stay and eat. We’ll catch a cab.” She told him.

“No.” Alex was about to stand up, but Max beat him to it.

“I’ll take you home. Come on.” Max placed a hand on Liz’s back, and she didn’t protest. In fact, she didn’t want to be with anyone but Max right now.

“Thank you.” She told him once they reached the car.

“Not a problem.” He opened the back door and Liz placed a sniffling Marissa in the backseat, securing her in the seatbelt.

They got in the car. “Do you think you could just take me home. I just want us both at home tonight.” She told him.

He nodded. “Yeah, I can do that.”

The rest of the car ride was silent, but not an awkward silence, a comfortable silence.

* * *

Liz smiled as Max lifted Marissa from the car. “She’s so cute when she’s sleeping.” She told him.

“She’s always cute.”

She dug her keys out of her purse and let Max in her, small, yet cozy little house. “Marissa’s room is down this way.” She led him to a room at the end of the hall and Max placed her in her bed.

Liz gently tucked her under the covers and kissed her forehead.

She closed the door halfway behind her and then they went back to the living room.

Liz collapsed on the couch. “What a night huh?” She said with a bitter laugh.

“I take it you and your parents don’t usually get along well.” He inferred, sitting down next to her.

“No. Not since… I was really young when I got pregnant with Marissa and my parents hated Sean. He was a troublemaker, but he was a good guy. He loved Marissa and I more than anything. He was such a great Dad. But my parents wanted me to give Marissa up for adoption and finish college. They didn’t want me to marry Sean. I couldn’t do that. The moment I held her in my arms, I knew that I could never give her up. Sean didn’t want to either. We got married and moved here with Maria and Michael and I haven’t been to Roswell since. My parents come visit occasionally but it always ends in a fight. The only thing that they ever want to talk about is how I screwed up my life, but I take one look at Marissa, and I think… it was all worth it.” A few stray tears slid slowly down her cheeks and she wiped them away. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to go all sappy on you.

Max shrugged. “I don’t mind. Really.”

“I feel so bad for creating a scene in front of your parents and sister. They must think I’m nuts.”

Max laughed a little. “I’m sure they don’t. I’ll explain it to them.” He told her.

“Thanks. I just hate it when my Mom tells me how to parent Marissa.”

“Well if it’s any consolation… I think you’ve done a great job raising her. She’s such a great little girl.”

Liz smiled. “Thank you. That really means a lot to me.”

It was just now that Liz realized how close Max was to her. Her skin hummed at the thought of having his hands touching her. She took a deep breath and bit her bottom lip, resolving that there was only one thing to do. Kiss him because she was feeling the same thing he was. She was falling in love with him.

She went to grab his hand when her cell phone rang. She silently cursed the timing. “Excuse me.” She said, grabbing the cell phone. “Hello?”

“Liz, it’s Alex.” The voice on the other line said.

“Hey Alex.” She said.

“Where are you? I called the hospital and they said you didn’t come back.”

“Oh yeah sorry. Marissa and I are staying at home tonight. I just wanted her home and it’s been 2 weeks since I’ve slept in my own bed.” She told him.

“Well, I won’t be home till late, so don’t worry about me.”

Liz raised an eyebrow, even though Alex couldn’t see it. “And where will you be?” She asked.

“I’ll tell you tomorrow. Bye Liz! Love you!”

“Bye Alex. Love you too.” Liz hung up the phone and laughed. “I think Alex and your sister are going out tonight.” She told Max.

“Interesting.” Max stood up. “Well I should be going.” He said.

Liz’s heart sank. She didn’t want him to leave. But Liz wasn’t the type to ask someone to stay. “Umm… ok.”

“If you need anything tonight, just call me.” He told her.

Liz licked her lips. “Ok.” Ask him to stay Liz! But she couldn’t.

He took a step closer to her. “I’ll see you tomorrow.” He said.

“Yeah.” She swallowed hard. “Bye.”

He turned away and without even thinking Liz grabbed his arm. “Max wait.” She said.

“I don’t want you to leave.” She whispered.

“Liz, I don’t… I don’t understand.” He said.

She leaned up and pressed her lips against his. “Now do you understand?” She asked.

He nodded, but said nothing. He wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her into him, kissing her hard. His tongue probed her lips for permission to enter and she granted it, tangling her hands in his hair.

“Bedroom.” She said through strangled breaths when they parted.

“Are you sure?” Max asked.

“Yes.”

Max needed nothing more than that. The two made their way to the bedroom, holding on to each other and kissing, but trying to be as quiet as possible, so as to not wake up Marissa.

They fell on to the bed, Max on top. Liz’s hands were tangled in his thick brown hair. He slipped his hand up, under her shirt, caressing her smooth, creamy skin.

“I don’t have protection.” Max said suddenly, pushing her away.

“I’m on the pill.” Liz told him, pulling him back down, kissing him hard.

Liz was completely lost in Max, and the feel of him, and how badly she wanted him. And for the first time… for just a moment… she forgot about the sick, sleeping child in the next room.

RoswellChic4Ever · Post by **RoswellChic4Ever** » Wed Dec 29, 2004 1:26 pm

Well I've finally written part 6 after like 7 months of not doing too much updating on any of my stories at all. If anyone is still reading this, I hope you like it!

Part 6

A small smile played on Liz’s lips as she remembered the night before. It had started out as hell and ended so wonderfully. She opened her eyes, turning onto her side, to look at Max, but frowned. He was gone.

She rolled onto her back and stared at the ceiling. Where had he gone? Maybe he was afraid Marissa would wake up and find them so he left. Maybe… it was a horrible experience for him and he left. Maybe…

“Dr. Max!” Liz sat up at the sound of Marissa giggling loudly.

“Hey… Shh…” Came Max’s voice. “You don’t want to wake up your Mommy do you?” He asked.

“Nuh huh.” Marissa said.

Liz smiled. Max was out there with Marissa, letting her get some sleep. He was so nice, and thoughtful. Liz got up and quickly put some clothes on. She looked in the mirror and frowned. Her hair was a mess, and she was lacking makeup. She wanted to make herself look halfway decent, but she knew it was impossible. The bathroom was down the hall and there was no way she’d get down there without being seen.

She would just have to go out like this. She opened the door and walked into the living room. Max was sitting on the couch with Marissa curled up at his side, watching cartoons.

“Hi Momma!” Marissa said, noticing her first.

“Hi Baby, are you and Dr. Max having fun?” Liz asked, making her way over to the couch and sitting down.

“Yup! Dr. Max made me breakfast and now we are watching cartoons.” Marissa told her.

“That’s great sweetheart.” Liz kissed her on the head then looked at Max and smiled.

“There’s breakfast on the table for you. We didn’t want to wake you up.” Max told her.

“Ok. Thanks.” Liz walked into the kitchen and looked at the table. God, Max was so sweet.

“You like?” He asked, coming up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist.

“I do.” She replied, leaning back into him.

“Good, I wasn’t sure what kind of food you liked so I… well I made a lot.”

Liz giggled and turned around to meet his eyes. “Thank you.” She said sincerely. “You didn’t have to do this.”

“Do what?” He asked.

“Make breakfast, play with Marissa… any of it.” She told him.

Max placed his hands on her face and leaned in. “I wanted to.” He said, then kissed her gently on the lips. “I love Marissa… and I… I love you.”

Liz looked down. “You don’t even know me.” She said.

Max lifted her head up. “Maybe not completely, but I love what I know. I thought about you a lot the past few weeks, and after last night, not a day will go by that you and Marissa won’t be on my mind. I want to be in your life Liz, in Marissa’s life.”

“Are you sure? Cause she’s been through way too much already. Marissa needs something stable in her life, and if you can’t be that… Being with me isn’t just that… Marissa and I are a package deal.”

“I realize that Liz. I realized that the moment I saw you both. I want the whole package. I want it all.”

Liz couldn’t help but be completely entranced by Max. “You’re so perfect.” She told him.

He shrugged. “Nah, but I’m pretty close.”

Liz giggled. “So Dr. Max… What shall it be? Pancakes or waffles?” Max smiled at Liz and grabbed a plate.

“Why have one when you can have both?”

Liz got her food and sat down to eat, everything was so wonderful, she couldn’t imagine her life any other way but with Max. She didn’t want to imagine life any other way than with Max. Together they would raise Marissa and be a family, like she had always wanted.

* * *

One Month Later

Liz sat quietly, staring out the window, a blanket wrapped around her, her legs pulled up to her chest. She had been crying, which was clearly evident by the red blotches on her cheeks. She was clearly a mess.

She turned and looked at the little girl sleeping in the hospital bed. She slept peacefully tonight, which was something new. Usually she was tossing and turning and woke up crying… Tonight was different. Tonight she was so peaceful, it almost scared Liz.

Marissa had turned seven yesterday, not that they had much of a party. She’d been feeling horrible and in a bad mood all day. She was so moody all of the time, and Liz just didn’t know how to deal with her.

The past month had pretty much been like that. Marissa wasn’t recovering as she should have been and even though Max didn’t say it, Liz knew that she was losing Marissa, and that thought… well it killed her.

The door opened and Max appeared in the doorway. Liz forced a smile as he walked towards her. He pulled up a chair and kissed her gently on the forehead. “How ya doing?”

“I’m ok.” She told him.

He grabbed her hand and squeezed it hard, and she was thankful for his support and love. She wasn’t sure she would have gotten through the past month if it wasn’t for him.

“Max…” She said softly.

“Yeah?”

“She’s not going to get better is she?” Liz asked, fighting the tears that threatened to spill at any moment.

Max looked at her, his face a mixture of sadness and shock. “I don’t know.” He whispered. “I don’t know.”

Liz leaned over and rested her head on his shoulder. He caressed her back lightly and she let a single tear fall onto her cheek. That was the first time Max had admitted that there may be a chance that Marissa wouldn’t recover, and it scared her to death.