Find Yourself (UC,Z/L, ADULT) Pt 16 - 08/23/04 [WIP]

[mad crazy]

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Title: Find Yourself
Author: mad crazy
Rating: ADULT at parts but mostly MATURE for language
Disclaimer: I don’t own any of Roswell (although I wish I owned Jason Behr, oh the possibilities ) or Save the Last Dance.
Summary: Liz’s mom dies in a car wreck, leaving her to move out to New York to live with her Dad. This is UC with pairings of Zan/Liz, Lonnie/Rath, and a little Ava/Zan. Mostly Save the last Dance with a Roswell twist.
A/N: Hey guys! So this is my first UC fic! I have a huge obsession with Zan...I think they should have given him his own episode. I used Cal as Liz’s father because he looked like the guy in the movie haha. Plus I like change...and Jeff Parker kinda annoys me :mad: lol. Anyways this story will probably go a little slow since school is being a bitch and I have Never Should Have Been to write also...so hang in there with me. Hope you like!
nikki

Part 1

Liz watched the desert flow past through the window of the greyhound bus. The sun was rising in the distance, casting red tones to the earth it touched.

She adjusted her body in the seat and fixed her headphones so they were straight on her head. Pressing the play button on the CD player, she let the soft mellow sounds of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Sheherazade take her over, casting out the dark thoughts and her troubled past.

She blinked back the tears and ran her hands up her cheeks to stop the trails of wet salty tears down her cheeks. She cried enough this past week to last her a lifetime and she really didn’t think she had any tears left o cry.

***FLASHBACK***
Knock, Knock, Knock
Liz got up from the couch and set her book down, walking over to the door. She looked through the peephole, drawing back with a quizzical look on her face. She opened the door and came face to face with Sheriff Valenti.

“Sheriff,” she said in greeting and nodded her head, “what can I do for ya? Mom went out a couple of minutes ago, but she should be back.....”
Liz trailed off as she noticed the pained look on the Sheriff’s face when she talked about her mother. Liz felt the tears coming and shook her head, the pain in her stomach increased, sending her to the floor.
She knew.

***FLASHBACK***

“Liz, I’m your mother’s attorney Phillip Evans. I have some things we need to talk about.” A tall middle aged man said as he walked into he living room holding a distraught Liz by the elbow.

“What am I going to do?” Liz said with a far-off look in her glassy red eyes. She let out a strangled sob. “Where am I going to live? I have no money..no one....I have no one.”

Liz clasped on the couch in sobs that tore at Phillips heart. Her hands went to her face in effort to stop the river of tears that consumed her. Phillip sat down next to her and wrapped her in a hug.


“You do have someone Liz. You have your friends and you have me. If you ever need anything, just call me! I’ll help you anyway I can.” He paused. “You also have your father.”

Liz looked up startled, tears still running down her face. “M-my.....father?”

“Yes,” Phillip nodded “,you have your father, Cal Langley, he lives in New York and works as a musician. That’s where you are to live. You’re going to live with family, your father.”

Liz shook her had violently, hair shaking in all directions. She turned her red bloodshot eyes on Phillip. “No, I have no family. My only family.....my only family is dead! He never wanted me then, why would he want me now?”

Phillip looked torn as he took in the broken girl next to him, but there was nothing he could do.

“I’m sorry Liz, but your mother wanted you to live with your father. I don’t know the real story, but anyone would be lucky to have you as a daughter. I’m sure it will all work out between you two over time.” He squeezed her shoulder. “I’m sorry Liz. You have a bus ticket for 7:00 Tuesday morning, that leaves you three days to pack up the house. I
would have wanted a later ride, but your father wants to have you there as soon as
possible.”

***FLASHBACK ENDS***

Liz turned her head to stare out the window again. They were making their was into Oklahoma now, New Mexico was long gone, and so was the life of dancing and happiness spent with her mother.



soooo? Yea or nea?

[mad crazy]

Find Yourself
Part 2

The bus pulled to a stop and the doors pushed open. People of many ages stepped off the bus and onto the curb, looking from side to side at the city that they were in.

Liz gathered her jacket and book bag, slinging it over her arms. She walked slowly down the aisle on the bus and nodded her thanks to the bus driver. She walked slowly down the oversized stairs, holding onto the railing for balance. She placed both feet on the hard, dirty cement ground and looked side to side, her hand still holding onto the railing.

She looked around the bus station at families reuniting and lone passengers drinking a quick cup of coffee before their ride. She stepped into the main lobby and looked around. She really didn’t know who she was looking for, she never had met her father.

A fairly young man dressed in loose black pants, black shoes and a black button-up shirt with a leather jacket over it walked up to her. He had a backwards black newsboy hat on his head and a dozen white roses in his hand. He stood a few feet away from her and looked her up and down, resting his eyes in accordance with hers. The man smiled and walked the remaining few feet to stand in front of her.

“Liz?” He questioned, his green eyes shone with hope and happiness.

Liz nodded slowly and was startled when she felt herself pulled into a fierce, strong hug, the white roses pressed up against her arm. She stiffened a little in his arm and smiled nervously when he pulled back.

“God it’s good to see you! The last time I saw you was when you were two....that was...wow, it’s been a long time!” He paused, concentrating on a distant memory. He looked down at the flowers and held them up for Liz to take. “Here these are for you. I didn’t know what kind of flowers you liked...umm...the white roses were always your mother’s favorite.”

Liz took the flowers and held them carefully in both hands. She bent her head and took in the sweet smell of the roses, the smell that constantly followed her mother. She closed her eyes and forced back the tears that were threatening to fall at the memory.

“God you look just like your mother! That’s the only way I was able to pick you out of the rest. How was your trip by the way?” He asked still smiling, his hands resting by his sides.

“Fine.” She said quickly, avoiding a conversation.

Cal’s smile faltered a little and he rubbed his hands on his pants. He stepped back a little and looked down, only to look up again with a smile.

“Well let’s get your bags and go home!”

Liz nodded. She felt tears prick her eyes as she heard the word ‘home’ coming from the man that said he was her father. She felt him put his arm around her shoulder and led her over to the bus, where the other passengers were getting their luggage.

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

They pulled up to an old apartment building, the street looking darker as the sun started to set. Cal got out of the driver’s seat and closed the door, then walked over to Liz’s side and opened her door.

Liz got out of the old tan Mercury and stood on the sidewalk looking up at the old building that would be her home. The bottom windows were boarded up and the porch light hanging by the wires. The front gated fence was broken and the porch’s paint was peeling off in large slabs.

“I know it’s not much compared to the house in Roswell, but it’s home!” Cal said as he came to stand beside her, sloping his free arm around her shoulders.

They walked through the broken gate and onto the porch. Cal took out his keys and opened the front door. The front of the house was worse inside with it’s wainscoting failing off of the walls and the brown paint looking more like mold. There were a set of stairs that went up to the next floor and a hallway going back further into the small building.

As they walked up the creaking stairs, Liz noticed the holes in the plaster and the boards holding the walls together. A small patch of old wallpaper was randomly placed on the wall and was also coming off on the edges.

Liz stuck her hands in her pockets as she walked up the steps, trying to ignore the amount of dirt on the floor that was staining her new shoes.

Cal stopped in front of a door and inserted the key into the lock. He went through the doorway, leaving Liz to stand there looking in at her new home.

The living room was a light beige with a fireplace on the wall facing the small kitchen. A brown couch stood facing the fireplace and a coffee table was in front of it covered in music sheets. An upright piano was placed next to the wall in what was supposed to be the dining room, and more music sheets and two pizza boxes lined the table. The kitchen was dark and small with dark brown fake wood for cabinets and a once white
refrigerator.

Liz walked over to the mantle and looked over the objects. There were statues of various things including a medium sized wooden sailor dressed in a red peacoat. Her eyes were attracted to the pictures closer to the wall. Her eyes went wide with recognition as she observed various times of her life through photos of her and her friends.

“That was your 8th grade photo in the center. Your mom always sent me your pictures, but I stopped getting them after that one. I kept every single picture that I was sent and hung them up. There are a few of your baby pictures in my trumpet case and there’s ah...there’s a picture of you and your mother on the piano, for inspiration you know.” Cal said as he stood next to her. “I know I’ve never been there...hell I wasn’t even in the same state, but I want you to know that at the time I left, I was trying to make a better life for you and your Mom. I know now that it wasn’t the smartest thing I’ve ever done, and I would take it back if I had the chance today.”

Liz stared at a picture of her mother and her together. So carefree back then, so full of life, no problems at all, she thought. Tears sprung to her eyes as she looked at the picture. It was from her 3rd birthday when her mother had dressed her in a pink ginum dress and put curlers in her hair for the first time. Her mother was smiling happily at the camera holding Liz in a giant hug from behind.

Liz felt anger boil up against her sorrow as she listened to her father’s words. She was unsure with how to deal with the whole situation, for once Liz Parker didn’t have a plan.

“Come on...I’ll ah show you your room and where you’ll be sleeping tonight.”

Cal led Liz through the living room to a pair of pocket doors. He pushed the doors in with all the strength he could muster. The doors squeaked and moaned as it was forced back into the wall. The other door was pushed back to reveal a tiny room. The plaster on the walls was new and still had filler dotting the walls. There was an outline of a bed and a dresser in the center of the room with two tarps hanging over them. One small window led outside onto a small iron fire escape, and a small door to her left led to what she hoped was either a bathroom or a closet.

Cal walked into the room and scratched his head. “Ummm...it’s not quite finished yet...you see..ah...I still have to paint. I don’t know what your favorite color...I mean it used to be pink, but I’m not sure anymore.”

Liz looked at her father and noticed how nervous he looked. His eyes were questioning and his slouched form showed anything but confidence. She felt bad she was causing him this trouble, but until she had time to think, she really couldn’t do much.

She walked into the room and over to the window, looking out over the now dark streets of New York. She turned back to her father who was watching her every move.

“So, where am I supposed to sleep?” She asked, opening her mouth for one of the first times since her arrival.

Cal looked pleased as he walked her back out and into the living room. “I’m gonna move your dresser out here so you can put your stuff in it. The couch is a pull out, so you can sleep there until I..ah..finish the room up.”

Liz set her suitcase onto the couch and cringed, wondering how many diseases she could get from it.

“I’ll go get you the sheets for the bed and then I have to go.” Cal said as he looked at his watch. “I’m gonna be late for my show. Ummm...maybe sometime you could...ah..come see it, ya know? Nothing fancy or anything, just music and food.”

“You know, maybe another night. I’m kinda tired and tomorrow is the first day of school. I kinda want to unpack and get some sleep.” Liz answered, missing the crestfallen face of her father.

“Ah...yeah sure...let me just get those sheets and get outta your way.”

Cal came back and handed a pair of white sheets to Liz. He left shortly after carrying his trumpet case in one hand with his newsboy hat still placed firmly on his head.

Liz colapsed on the couch and picked up the phone that was sitting on an end table near the couch. She dialed the familar numbers that she had called everyday since her mom had let her use the phone.

“Hello?” A cheerful voice asked.

“Guess who.” Liz said, a smile on her face as she heard the familar voice answer.

“Liz? Oh my God, I told you to call me every stop the bus made! It’s been two days! I thought you got kidnapped!”

“Alex! Calm down! I’m sorry, I just got a little side tracked on the bus ride here. Lots of things to think about.” Liz said as she played with the cord attached to the phone.

“Yeah....So how’s New York? And how’s your dad?” Alex said through the miles of phone lines linking them together.

“I don’t know. It’s big, a hell of a lot bigger than Roswell.” Liz said with a laugh. “My dad is...well I guess he’s happy to see me. But I don’t know. I mean, the man never even finished my room Alex! I’m sleeping on the couch tonight!”

“He didn’t finish your room? Wow he’s starting out with a great amount of bonus points isn’t he? Did he give you a reason?”

“He said he didn’t know my favorite color. He remembered back in 1st grade when it was pink though.”

“Liz, give the man a chance. He hasn’t seen you in what around 12 years? He hasn’t talked to you except through those letters he sent once in awhile. He doesn’t know you, he doesn’t want to screw up your new relationship. I think it’s cool he’s letting you pick out the color of your room. He cares Liz. Give-the-man-a-chance!” Alex said trying to
get the point across.

“I guess....it’s just gonna take awhile to get used to the idea. Everything has changed so fast....TOO fast for me. I’m still trying to catch up. I’ll try to give him a chance. It’s just so hard! He was never there Alex.” Liz said, starting to unlock her suitcase.

“I know, I was there remember. It ‘s gonna take time. These things don’t develop overnight. You’re both going to have to get to know eachother again, learn who you are know. Don’t shut him out Liz.”

“I won’t”

“Other than the Dad situation, how you think you’re gonna hold up?” Alex asked.

“I don’t know Alex. I really don’t know.”

TBC
Thanks guys!

[mad crazy]

Find Yourself
Part 3

The old Mercury pulled up to the curb with a putter and stopped. Teenagers walked down both sides of the street towards the large brick building in the center of the road. Liz turned to Cal as he put the car in park.

“So do you want me to walk you in. Umm I could get you settled into the office and then maybe leave.” Cal asked as he lowered his head.

Liz looked at her father and felt bad for the way she was treating him. He had come in at 2:00 in the morning last night when she was watching the ceiling and worrying about the first day at school. He had apoligized for coming in late, yet Liz just turned over on the couch. She knew she was being mean to her father, and as she watched him now she felt extremely bad for her actions.

“You know, as much as I would like that, I know you have somethings to do. But I was wondering if tonight you would show me around town. We could go out and eat somewhere? Or if you have a gig I wouldn’t mind seeing it?” Liz asked hopefully. She smiled when Cal lifted his head, and he returned her smile.

“Yeah, we can go out tonight and I could take you to the club and then we could have dinner out at Vinni’s.” Cal said, with a bright smile on his face.

“Great. Umm I’m just going to get going inside,” Liz said pointing to the building as she opened the door. “I’ll see you after school.”

Cal waved to Liz as she walked up the large stone steps surrounded by dozens of teens and into the school. He sighed quietly to himself and started the old Mercury.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Liz dodged students as she walked through the front door and headed for the Main Office. She casually glanced at the other students and noticed most of the guys were dressed in baggy dark clothes and the girls all had on either tight clothes or the latest fashions.

“Lookie here! New kid from Mayberry? Like da sweater cornball!”

Liz looked to her right to the direction in which the voice had come and noticed a tall braod shouldered man with a mohawk. Tatoos and piercings covered what skin she could see as she let her gaze travel down to look at his all black outfit.

She looked down at her outfit, which would have made her look cool in Roswell. The light pink cardigan was a perfect choice to go over the matching baby pink tank. Her khakis were freshly pressed and her brown shes were tied tight in neat little bows. Liz frowned and shook her head, continuing her trek to her destination a few feet ahead of her.

Liz walked in the door of the office and up to the large desk in the front. “Hi! I’m Liz Parker, from Roswell. I was wondering if I could get a copy of my schedule and my locker number?”

The young woman behind the desk smiled at Liz and typed slowly into the computer. She stood up and walked over to the printer, picking up the sheet and handing it to Liz.

“Liz Parker, new student from Roswell, New Mexico. Father Cal Langly, homeroom is 103, Mr. Smith. Locker number A73. Here you go. Welcome to Heights High School, I’m Mrs. Triner. If you need anything just come talk to me. Now, would you like someone to show you around the school?” Mrs. Triner looked up from the paper in her hands and smiled at Liz.

Liz shook her head slowly and smiled back at the secretary. She grabbed the two sheets which had her highlighted schedule and locker combination on it.

“Thanks, but I think I can manage.”

Mrs. Triner nodded, “Well dear have a good day and remember that you’ll get used to this school eventually, just give everything time to sink in.”

Liz nodded and gave a short thank you befgore she went out into the crowded halls. She walked down the hallway looking at the painted red classroom doors and old lockers with various stickers, dents, and writing on them. She could smell smoke and looked around to see a group of girls coming out of the bathroom with cigarettes still burning in their hands.

A loud shrill bell rang out above her head, causing most students to file into their respective classrooms. Liz continued down the hall till she reached locker A73. She spun the lock and lifted the latch, but it didn’t buge. She spun the lock again, this time paying close attention the the numbers she stopped on. She pulled the latch up and pulled with all her might...and pulled...and pulled.

“Like things can’t get any worse! Why me? What did I ever do to deserve all this shit!” Liz banged on the metal locker. “I-don’t-want-to-be-here!”

A smooth laugh behind her made her slowly turn around.

“Didn’t know they bred lunatics in Mayberry. Yo, you need help wit dat locker duke?”

Liz came to stop in front of the hotest guys she had ever seen. She let her eyes travel up his well toned body from his untied black Doc Martens, up his baggy blue jeans and past his well muscled chest accentuated by his tight black tee. His hair was spiked in various points, and his dark complextion made his various silver earrings stand out evern more.
She came to rest on her eyes on his face that now sported a cocky grin.

“See anything ya like toots?” He laughed, making his dark amber eyes sparkle with mischeif.

Liz took in his body and cocky stance, and felt her head start to nod. She quickly stopped herself and shook her head to clear it.

“Aw ain’t dat too bad. A well, since ya don’t need no assistance wit dat locker of yours, I'm gonna get to class.” He slowly started to turn away but stopped when Liz cried out to him.

“Wait! Um will you help me with this locker? I can’t seem to get it open. I have done the combination over and over again.” Liz sighed with frustration, not knowing if she should trust this stranger or go back to the smiling secretary. She watched as he turned around with a smile and walked smoothly over to her locker.

“What’s da combination?” He asked confidently as he stood posed and ready to go into action.

Liz looked back down at the paper and read it off to him. “31...11...and umm 37”

She watched as he gracefully spun lock to the corresponding numbers and put his hand on the latch as he gave the base a sharp kick. The door opened easily, leaving Liz with a look of shock and awe on her face.

He turned around with his arms out wide in a gesture that screamed confidence. “Notin to it sweetie. Little kick here and der and you gots yourself an open locker. Anything else I can dos for your pretty self?” He said winking while crossig his arms.

“Eh, no I think I’m good. Don’t you want to get to class? You’re going to be awfully late.” Liz said, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear and looking anywhere but at the smirking man.

“Nah, teach ‘spects me ta be late. Why would I disappoint em?”

Liz moved past him to her locker, slowly placing her bag in the small compartment and trying not to look at the man she was starting to have a serious attraction to. She shook her head at his answer and closed her locker, books in hand.

“I don’t know. Maybe you should try it, see what happens. Thanks again for the help with the locker. I’m Liz by the way.” She said turning back to him.

“No prob, I gots time for anyone dats as hot as yous. And da name is Zan.” He said before turning around and walking down the hallway, his boots thumping against the hard cement floors.

TBA....

[mad crazy]

Find Yourself
Part 4......*R* for language

Liz walked slowly into the crowded classroom, making her way up to the front desk with her head to the ground, avoiding all of the stares she was recieving.

“Hi, I’m Liz Parker, the new student. Sorry I’m late, I couldn’t find the room and was having a little locker problem.” She said, looking up the her new teacher who sat posed on the corner of the desk. He slowly took the paper she offered out of her hands and smiled.

“Seems locker trouble is the problem of the day,” he turned to the class, “isn’t that right Zan?”

Liz’s eyes went wide as she slowly turned to face the class, making eye contact with Zan who was slouched in his sit in the center of his fan club. He smirked and winked at her, causing Liz to shake her head and blush.

“Wells Mr.J, when an opportunity like dat,” he pointed to Liz with a nod of his head, “comes your way, you gots to take it. Am Is right or am Is right?”

Liz watched as the boys around him clapped and laughed, hoping to please their master like puppies begging for a treat. She noticed the mohawked-one sitting close to Zan’s right staring intently at her, almost in a threatening way.

Mr. Johnson laughed and shook his head at Zan’s remarks. “Whatever you say man. Liz why don’t you take a seat behind Sara in the third row. Maybe you’ll be safe from Zan if you are on the other side of the room.”

“Aww teach? Whys you gots to be like dat? I was startin to look forward to your class now dat Is got some new candy to look at.” Zan put his hand on his heart, starting another roar of laughter from not only his fan club but from the teacher as well.

Liz slowly made her way to her seat, blocking out the conversation that for some reason made her sad on top of angry. She was just a piece of ass to him, nothing more. She should have known that a guy that hot would never be attracted to her.

She looked over in his direction and past his fanclub. Her eyes clashed with his dark amber ones as they stared at eachother until the mohawked one next to Zan slapped him on the arm breaking their gaze. She looked up and met his threatening gaze head on and held it until he broke it.

“Okay today we will be talking about Hemingway. Now the question I want to know the answer to is how much you all know about Hemingway and his writing. Sorry Liz if this is a little over your head, if you want to stay after to get the notes that would be great.” Mr. Johnson looked around the room. “Anyone?”

“Hemingway was a great writer who wrote mostly about things he had gone through in life. All of his characters had some sort of connection to him, whether it be their addiction to alcohol or their love to fish, to the characters who travelled. All of his novels had a lesson that was embedded in the plot of the story.” Liz said confidently as she played with her pencil.

“Or you won’t have to stay after class to get those notes.” Mr. Johnson said as he looked surprised at Liz.

“Hemingway was anythin but a great writer sweets. Sure hes puttin morals in his stories but who the fuck is gonna use a moral about puttin a fish in water. No ones around here fishes toots. Yous thinks he’s a good writer? Nah, yous needs to read some good books like Steinbeck or Stephan Crane and his Red Badge of Courage. That shits got nothin on
dose guys.” Zan said to the surpise of Liz.

“Oh looks like we have ourselves a debate! Wonderful, wonderful!” Mr. Johnson said as he clapped his hands and took up his seat on the side of the desk.

“Yo teach! Do wes have ta sit heres and listen to this shit, deys givin me a headache man.” The teen with the Mohawk said, not recieving any acknowledgement from Liz nor Zan.

“Steinbeck?! How could you say Steinbeck was a great author when all he wrote about was the Depression? He didn’t even write it well! He used simple words and boring characters to make a stupid plot that always consisted of them going to California! I have yet to finish any of his books, I had to put them down they were making me sick!” Liz said, anger dripping in her voice.

“Yous probably couldn’t understand no words so yous had to stop.” Zan said in return crossing his arms and recieving laughs and pats on the back from his friends.

“Yes that’s exactly it! I couldn’t understand words that a man who never used words over two syllables wrote into horrible plots. That’s exactly it, can’t get anything past you.” Liz said as she looked towards the front, signalling that she was done with the conversation.

Zan went to open his mouth in response but was cut off by the shrill sound of the bell, sending the class into a frenzy to get out of the classroom. Liz looked towards Zan, but found the tall broading mohawk in front of him, blocking her view.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Liz set her bag on the ground and reached into her open locker, taking out her books for next class. She ignored the loud hallways and pounding music that came from down the hall as she bent over for her bag. She stared at the empty space near her feet and felt dred and fear work it’s way up from the pit of her stomach. She looked helplessly around the floor and felt tears start to prick her eyes as the last bit of her strength seemed to leave her.

“Dat’s how easy it is to jack shit in dis school. Gotta be careful not to put your shit on the floor unless you don’t want it no more.”

Liz looked over and saw a tall girl with short blonde hair, holding her bookbag in one hand. The girl was dressed in black baggy cargo pants with black boots and a short grey top that showed her midsection and a small navel piercing. Long silver earrings dangled from her ears and her eyes stood out against the black eyeliner surrounding her eyes.

“Ahh thanks, I’ll remember that.” Liz said and took the bag from her.

“Yeah whateva. Just remember dat if you want to keep your shit, don’t put em places where deys can be took.” With that the girl walked confidently away, leaving Liz grateful and intimidated.

Liz put her books in her bag and closed the door to her locker. She leaned in till her forehead touched the cool metal and silently hoped her day would get better. She hoisted the bag on her shoulders and walked towards the lunchroom, with a feeling that everything would be okay sooner or later.

TBC

[mad crazy]

Find Yourself
Part 5 **some language**


Liz gripped the sides of the her lunch tray and looked out into the masses of teens in the lunchroom. She noticed seats here and there, but no where near anyone she wanted to sit next to. Her eyes caught sight of a tall spiky blonde haired figure through the mass of people.

Liz walked in the same direction as the girl and found herself in front of a empty seat at the same table. She slowly started to sit down when a body forced her out of the way, not noticing Liz behind them. She slowly turned around, missing the curious glance the blonde girl threw her.

Liz sat at the table which she thought..no knew, were the geeks of the school. They were all dressed in khaki pants, sweater vests and button-up madras shirts, she noticed she would have to change her wardrob.

As soon as she sat down the girl next to her turned with an excited face and instantly starting talking.

“Hi! You’re that new student we got today! I was in the office at the same time you were and I was going to offer to show you around but you left so soon! How was your day? I hear you’re from Roswell. Have you ever seen any aliens? I really like your shirt!” The girl said in a rush.

Liz stared at the girl with shock, not comprehending how that all came out in 1 minute. She went to open her mouth but was cut off when she started speaking again.

“My name’s Maria. You’re in my Chemistry class. I looked it up on your schedule. I hope you don’t mind. Maybe we’ll be partners. That would be great, wouldn’t it Elizabeth?”

“It’s just Liz thanks.” She said quietly, now afraid of the girl’s sanity.

“Yeah duke....da name’s L-I-Z.”

Liz and Maria turned to greet the newcommer to the conversation. The tall blonde girl that had “jacked” Liz’s bookbag now stood in a confident pose; hand on her hip, defiance in her eyes.

“H-hi Lonnie...umm nice to see you today.” Maria said quietly, lowering her eyes from Lonnie’s.

Lonnie looked at Liz and nodded her head. “You done here?”

Liz nodded and picked up her tray, sending a little smile to Maria as she followed Lonnie over to the trash.

“I don’t eva want ta see yous sittin wit dos fools again kay?” She continued at Liz’s nod. “And da name’s Lonnie. Now I’ll introduce ya ta my crew.”

Liz followed Lonnie through the crowds and over to the same table she was at before. Lonnie pushed people over so Liz could sit and ploped down next to her.

“Liz, meet da crew. Des are da whores ova there Cin and Franki and of course my girl Ava, who thinks she’s da shit.” Lonnie said with a laugh.

“Ha! Thinks? Girl you know I’m da shit. I gots style, I gots grace, I gots it all. Dude I’m nothin but da shit.” Ava said with a smile to Lonnie and laughs from Cin and Franki, who seemed out of the loop.

Liz looked at the group of people she was sitting with. She could definitely have fun with this group. She noticed that Lonnie and Ava seemed like the leaders, with a special bond, and Cin and Franki seemed to follow everything they said.

She looked behind the group as they were talking amongst themselves and saw the mass of spiked black hair. She let her gaze travel down his body, sitting casually on the window ledge with his boots resting on the table. Her gaze rested on his tan face as he turned and looked at her. She noticed his eyes flash then go blank as he looked at her, then slowly looked away.

“Ah I hate that guy.” Liz said outloud, stopping the conversations around her.

Lonnie looked up with a questioning glance. “What guy?”

“That guy behind you sitting on the window ledge. The one in all black with the piercings. He thinks he’s the shit because he has this fan club and because he’s read some books. He made me look like a fool in English. He acts like such an ass.” Liz said, trying to hide betraying hint of interest in her voice.

Lonnie and Ava turned around to check out the guy and turned back, Ava with a smile and Lonnie with a blank face.

“Dat ass is my brotha.” Lonnie said with a hint of anger in her voice.

“And he is da man if I’m not mistaken.” Ava said with a laugh, popping a fry in her mouth.

“Oh shit! I’m sorry! I didn’t know...O jeez.” Liz said in a rush, embarassed about calling her new friend’s brother an ass.

“Nah! Don’t be. Da boy needs to come off dat throne he’s been sittin on for his whole life. Don’t sweat it girl, he can be a real ass to me too.” Lonnie said, a smile breaking out on her face.

“More like a controling king is more like it.” Ava muttered still munching on her fries. Lonnie looked over at Ava and smacked her on the arm.

“Come on now, he ain’t dat bad...” Lonnie started.

“sometimes.” Both girls finished laughing, causing Cin and Franki to laugh too.

The bell rang causing the students to walk out of the lunchroom and into the now crowded halls. Liz bumped into a hard body and looked up into the eyes of the tall boy with the mohawk. He looked down on her with a scowl and looked her up and down, landing on her face with an intense glare.

“Why don’t yous find ya place in dis school, and back off mine...got me?” He said in a menacing voice.

“Ah Liz, don’t listen ta dat fool.” Lonnie said comming up behind her and walking up to the boy, wrapping her arms around his neck and a passionate kiss on his lips. When they came up for air, and Liz had turned a violent shade of red at the sight, Lonnie turned back to Liz. “Dis is my man. He may be an idiot sometimes so just ignore em. Liz Rath, Rath dis is Liz.”

Liz said a quick and quiet “Hello” and lowered her eyes, intimidated by his size and glare.

“Rath! Lay off ‘er kay? Jeez you’d think she was gonna like attack us or somethin.” Lonnie said smacking him in the chest.

“Or somethin.” Rath answered and walked away, sending one last glare to Liz before he caught up with Zan at the end of the hall.

“Oh dat boy is gonna get it when we’s all gets home! He’s so fuckin askin for it.” Lonnie said with a glare down the hallway. She turned back to Liz with a smile. “So whats next on your sched?”

“Chemistry with....Long.” Liz said looking at her schedule.

“Ah, I already had dat. Yous gonna like dat class dhough. Zans in it.” Lonnie said with a laugh, putting her arm around a now frowning Liz, and showing her down the hallway to her room.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chemistry went without a problem with Liz having to partner up with Maria for the week since she was the smartest one in the class. Liz had refused to answer any of Maria’s questions since they came out of her mouth so fast and some were a little too personal. Zan sat behind them and had listened to the whole conversation between the two, but never sent any comments their way.

Liz walked out of the school, her bag on her back as she looked for the old Mercury.

“LIZ!!!! Yo girl ova here!”

Liz turned towards the voice and saw Lonnie and Ava walking towards her, Rath and Zan trailing behind. Liz smiled at the two ignoring the others.

“Hey Lonnie, Ava!”

“I believe you have already met Zan.” Lonnie said with a smile as she watched the two exchange greetings; Liz glaring and Zan winking.

“Unfortunatly” Liz said curtly, turning to face only Ava and Lonnie, who both had smirks on their faces.

“Aw toots don’t be like dat. It was def one class dat I said some shit in dats all.” Zan said as if that would clear everything up around them. Liz shook her head in response.

“Well kids I’m just happy dat it’s Wednesday cause you know where da party’s at tomorrow.” Ava said as she and Lonnie laughed, giving eachother high fives.

“You should come Liz, have some fun da New York style.” Lonnie said while hanging on Rath.

Zan laughed, “Her? Ha! Liz ain’t even gonna step on the same block as the club let alone dance der.”

“Whatever, I could dance in circles around you. I’m up for it, just tell me when and where.” Liz said nodding her head at Zan in a defiant way.

“Chill Liz, don’t get all hyped up for nothin. Da club tomorrow night at 9. We’s stay pretty late girl, you betta hope yous up to it.” Lonnie said.

“Yeah I’m up for it. I don’t know where it is though.” Liz said, not sure what she was getting herself into.

“Yous can just go wit us, just meet us at da appartment kay girl?” Ava said, lightly punching Liz’s arm.

“Dats a plan den, I’ll tell ya where we live tomorrow kay Liz? We gots ta book.” Lonnie said, linking arms with Rath.

“Yeah sure! See ya tomorrow.” Liz said as she watched them leave in a four square position, joking and laughing the whole way to the end of the street.

TBC

[mad crazy]

**Disclaimer** Roswell, Save the Last Dance, and Usher's song "Yeah" are not mine, I'm just borrowing them.


Find Yourself
Part 6 **R for some language**

“So you are doing what tonight?” Alex asked over the phone in a shocked tone.

“I’m goin to da club Alex. I’ve told you about 500 times.” Liz said as she looked through her closet, throwing items on the bed that looked suitable for the club.

“You picked up an accent and you’re going to a club?! Never thought I’d see the day when you would even think about going to a club, let alone in New York.” Alex replied laughing.

“You think my accent sounds good? I’ve been working on it all day, throwin in some yous here and der.” Liz said, choosing to let the comments Alex made go unheard.

“Eh, for being there that long it’s really good.”

“You think so? I was thinking that I should add a little more attitude in my speech so that I sound cooler.” Liz said with a thoughtful look on her face as she held up a red shirt and black pants.

“Liz...I don’t care about your accent right now, I care about you. Do you know what you are doing? I mean a club with strangers in a new city, let alone one of the largest cities in the United States?” Alex asked concerned.

“Alex, I will be fine! I know this is a complete 180 from Roswell, but I trust these guys. They will help me out. And the only thing I’m worried about right now is what to wear.” Liz said.

“Well, I can’t help you from where I’m standing, but I’m sure you’ll look great as usual. I better go, have fun tonight and be safe! Call me tomorrow with da news.” Alex said.

Liz laughed, “Nice Alex, real nice.”

“Ya I know, thought I’d add some more atttitude to my accent to make it more New York for ya. I was thinking that it might make me sound cooler.” Alex started.

“Goodnight Alex, you can stop anytime.”

“I just don’t know though. Should I add more yous? Or do I sound straight up New York to you?” Alex said.

“Goodnight Alex. I love ya! Talk to you later dork!” Liz said hanging up, laughing and shaking her head at Alex’s antics. He always managed to make things a little bit better, now if she could just find something to wear.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Liz walked down the street and looked at the paper in her hands with Zan and Lonnie’s address. She reached the dark building and pulled her jacket fully closed around her neck.

She knocked on the door and looked down at her outfit. Her black pants were loose on her waist and flared atthe bottom, resting atop her clunky black sandals. She doned a red polo-like dress shirt over a red camisole. Her eyes were bright against her black mascara and pale skin.

Lonnie opened the door and took one long look at Liz bundled in her tan peacoat and pant pants. She smiled at Liz and stepped aside, letting Liz take her first look at the apartment.

“Yo Liz, Zan’s in da bathroom finishin up his ‘look’, afta her gets done we can book kay?” Lonnie said as she walked further back into the apartment. “Rath and Ava already left for da club, so we’ll just meet em der.”

“Wait Rath and Ava live here with you and Zan?” Liz asked confused as she took in her surroundings. Blankets were strewn over the couch, shoes dotted the floor and several pizza boxes were stacked in the corner.

“Yeah, wes all grew up togetha and decided ta get a place togetha once wes was old enough.” Lonnie said as she put her hoop earrings in and turned towards the hallway. “ZAN! Let’s go!”

“Do I umm look okay?” Liz said moving her jacket aside so Lonnie could see her outfit.

Lonnie tried not to wince as she took in her appearance and smiled. “Sure Liz, ya look hott.”

“Are you sure, because I could go home and change?” Liz said, still unsure of her outfit.

“Okay okay comere.” Lonnie said motioning to herself.

Liz walked slowly over and took off her jacket, throwing it casually on the floor next to her. Lonnie directed her movements as she stripped of the polo shirt and shoes. Lonnie took scissors to Liz’s camisole, after Liz’s hesitant permission, and cut a little up the sides and down the center, showing off a little more skin than Liz was used to. Lonnie retreated back into what Liz guessed was her bedroom, leaving Liz standing alone in the
middle of the room. She pulled the loose pants up more on her waist, wasting energy as they fell down lower again.

Lonnie returned with a long silver necklace, a black eye pencil, and a scrap of fabric that could have been either a tube top or a skirt. Lonnie tossed the black material over to Liz and walked over to a pile of shoes on the floor.

“What size are ya?” Lonnie asked, her body bent over the pile.

“Umm 8, I’m a size 8.” Liz answered, hoping she meant shoes.

“Put dat skirt on and I’ll look for ya a pair of kick ass shoes kay?” Lonnie said, looking up at Liz with a smile.

Liz looked into her hands at the “skirt” and down at her pants. She let her eyes wander down the hall, looking for a sign of Zan and when she was satisfied she slipped her pants off and pulled on the tight black skirt. She yanked and pulled hoping to make it bigger and longer, but stopped when nothing changed.

“Ah ha! Here Liz, sit down on da couch and put des on.” Lonnie said. handing her a pair of black leather boots.

Liz quickly obeyed and watched as Lonnie came towards her with the necklace and pencil. She hooked the silver chain around her neck so it fell loosely near her clevage. Lonnie carefully applied the black pencil around Liz’s eyes, making them stand out even more against her pale complextion.

“Kay Liz, stand up now and let me see yas.” Lonnie said, standing up and putting the makeup away.

Liz stood hesitantly on the heels, pulling down the skirt so that it covered more of her legs.

“Damn!”

Liz turned to the hallway and met the shocked face of Zan as he stood in his jeans, black shirt and silver jewerly. Lonnie smiled at her work and at her brother, whom she knew what standing there through most of the change.

“Dat’s right, my girl looks hott! Liz yous gonna kill em tonight!” Lonnie said handing Liz her jacket and putting her leather one on over her black tight outfit.

Liz laughed nevously as Lonnie talked, not breaking eye contact with Zan, who was still staring at her as well, the same thoughts running through both of their heads. Lonnie noticed the lack of movement from the two and pushed Liz forward, breaking the eye contact.

“Let’s go, jeez. I don’t wana miss dis tonight.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Liz walked slowly into the dark club, swiftly being bombarded with the sound of Usher as she watched the group of people dance and grind to the music.

I'm in the club with my homies, tryna get a lil V-I, keep it down on the low key, cause you know how it feels.
I said shorty she was checkin up on me, from the game she was spittin my ear you'd think
that she knew me.
So we decided to chill

Zan walked up behind a still Liz and placed his arm around her shoulders.

“Ya okay toots? Ya look a lil jumpy...it’s just a lil hip hop, notin ta get nervous bout.” He said over the music, Lonnie watching the scene from behind them.

“Yeah I know, it’s just my first time here, I’ve never seen anything like this.” Liz said as she looked up at him with a nervous smile. She remembered back when they had first walked up to Club Fight and saw the long lines that wound around the block. For the second time this week, Liz realized how far away from home she really was.

“Yous ready to go down der and dance wit me.” Zan said with a cocky smirk that made Liz laugh and nod.

Conversation got heavy, she had me feelin like she's ready to blow!
(Watch Out!, Watch Out!)
She saying come get me, come get me,
So I got up and followed her to the floor, she said baby lets go,
When I told her I said

Zan walked Liz down the steps and into the club, pausing to say hi to certain people as Lonnie walked behind them watching them with a careful eye and steady smile.

Liz felt warm and safe under Zan’s comforting and strong arm, blocking out everyone but him. She watched out of the corner of her eye as he said his hellos to people he knew and continued his way to the bar.

Yeah yeah Shorty got down to come and get me
Yeah yeah I got so caught up I forgot she told me
Yeah yeah Cause if my girl new it'd be best to hold me
Yeah yeah Next thing I knew she was all up on me screaming

“Ya wanna dance Liz or get somethin ta drink? Dat is if you drink?” Zan said in a jokin manner, lifting his eyebrow and smirking.

“I so do drink and that sounds good.” Liz said in defiance, but soon lost it when she looked at Zan’s face as he smiled at her.

They walked through the crowds to the bar and Zan ordered drinks as Liz watched with interest. Zan handed her a glass and watched with interest as Liz took her first cautious sip.

“Hey! This is only Coke! I thought you were getting me a drink?” Liz said as she looked at Zan.

“Didn’t think yous had it in ya ta drink da shit yous say yous drinks toots. Ratha be safe.” Zan said laughing. “Now hows bout yous shows me how yous gonna dance circles round me?”

Liz blushed and looked at him nervously. She had forgotten about that comment till now. She looked out at the dance floor at the people grinding to the music.

Shes all up in my head now, got me thinking that it might good idea to take her with me,
Cause she's ready to leave.
Now I gotta keep it real now, cause on a one-to-ten she's a certified twenty, and that just
aint me.
Cause I do know if I take that chance just where is it gonna lead,
But what I do know is the way she dance makes shorty alright with me.
The way she getting low!
I'm like yeah, just work that out for me.
She asked for one more dance and I'm
Like yeah, how the hell am I supposed to leave?
And I said

Zan took a step towards her and lowered his head to her ear. “Is help ya if ya have trouble kay toots. Is be right der wit ya. Nothin to it.”

Liz looked into his eyes and saw a light of hope sparkle in his amber eyes, causing her head to give a nervous nod.

Zan grabbed her hand and walked her slowly through the mass of teens and past Lonnie who was dancing with an angry Rath. She smiled sweetly at them and pulled on Rath when he started to walk in their direction.

Yeah yeah Shorty got down to come and get me
Yeah yeah I got so caught up I forgot she told me
Yeah yeah Cause if my girl new it'd be best to hold me
Yeah yeah Next thing I knew she was all up on me screaming

Zan stopped and faced Liz on the dance floor, grabbing her waist with one hand and pulling her closer to him. Liz gave a nervous sigh as she let herself move with the music, throwing in ballet whenever she could.

Her eyes closed as she concentrated on the beat, tripping now and then over her boots and Zan’s feet, which seemed to be going the opposite way. She opened her eyes when she felt Zan’s hand tighten on her waist and found herself entranced in his dark amber pools.

Watch out!
My outfit's ridiculous, In the club lookin' so conspicuous.
And Rowl! These women al on the prowl, if you hold the head steady I'm a milk the cow.
Forget about the game I'm a spit the truth, I won't stop till I get em in they birthday suits.
So gimmie the rhythm and it'll be off with they clothes, then bend over to the front and
touch your toes.
I left the jag and I took the roles, if they aint cutting then I put em on foot patrol.
How you like me now, when my pinky's valued over three hundred thousand,
Lets drank you the one to please, Ludacris fill cups like double d's.
Me and Ush once more and we leave em dead, we want a lady in the street but a freak in
the bed to say

Zan pulled her closer to him and moved seductively to Liz, who was used to dancing arms length away. “Yous doing great Liz. Yous looks hott out ere.”

Liz smiled at Zan and let him led her in her first dance at the club. She watched other couples as they danced and grinded to the sound of Ludacris over the system. She noticed the moves the girls were doing and tried to copy them, making Zan smile at her effort.

Liz noticed some commotion in the corner of the room, but never took her eyes away from Zan’s as their dance became more heated.

Take that and rewind it back, Lil' Jon got the beat make ya booty go clap
Take that and rewind it back, Usher got the voice make ya booty go clap
Take that and rewind it back, Ludacris got the flow make ya booty go clap
Take that and rewind it back, Lil' Jon got the beat make ya booty go clap

Zan looked over Liz’s shoulder, his eyes widening at the sight he saw, causing Liz to try to turn around. He looked back at Liz and gave her a pained expression, turning to leave her as he walked towards the back of the club.

Liz turned swiftly to follow him but stopped as he turned around quickly. “No toots, yous stay ere and stay safe.”

Liz lost sight of him in the crowd who were now breaking up as the fight or whatever it was got bigger. Liz looked around for Lonnie or Ava in the crowd as se walked hesitantly through the people and towards the fight. She saw lights flash on the ceiling above the corner as she moved closer.

Ava appeared out of breath in front of her, “Liz come on wes gotta get yous outa ere fore da police come!”

Ava grabbed Liz’s hand as Liz asked about Lonnie and Zan. Ava never replied, she just continued to run towards the exit. By the time they got outside the police sirens could be heard coming closer by the minute.

Liz and Ava looked around frantically for Lonnia, Rath and Zan. The sirens screamed closer as people ran out of the club and onto the cold New York streets.

Liz looked to the right and to the left, afraid that Zan or Lonnie were hurt or worse. She noticed three shadows walk slowly out of the alley behind the club and as soon as she saw the faces of the people she ran as fast as her boots would carry her, Ava close behind.

“Oh my God are you guys okay!? You scared the shit out of me!” Liz screamed as she got closer to Lonnie, Rath and Zan, who was currently smiling at her.

“Did Is just hears da little princess cuss?” Rath said with sarcasim, ignoring Lonnie’s smack to his stomach.

“Shut the fuck up Rath, no one fuckin asked yous.” Zan said in defiance as he walked closer to Liz, not noticing the look Rath sent him.

“Zan wes gotta get outa ere, da police are comin up fast from two blocks down. Prob be heres soon.” Ava said in a rush, her voice thick with concern for her family.

“Yeah, lets book it. Wes don’t needs any more trouble tonight.” Zan said as he put his arm confortably around Liz’s waist, leading her and everyone else away from the club, just in time to see the police arive.

TBC

[mad crazy]

Find Yourself
Part 7

Liz had no idea what was going on as the five of them walked down the dark New York streets. She didn’t know if she should care as she felt Zan’s arm tighten possessively around her waist as they passed another group of teens. She knew she had seen something go down at the club, but didn’t know if she wanted to ask.

Lonnie and Ava watched from their positions behind Zan and Liz as he tightened his hold on her waist. Lonnie smiled at the thought of a hook up and looked towards Ava who grinned and winked in return.

They all walked in silence until they reached the appartment building the group lived in, it’s outside light flickering on and off signalling it’s end. Rath walked the stairs and disappeared into the dark hallway leading to the next floor.

“Liz yous wants ta come up and get ya stuff? Maybe chill for awhile you know?” Lonnie asked, leaning on the doorframe.

“Ah, I dunno. My dad doesn’t really know that I’m here and he’s supposed to get home from his gig any minute now, I don’t want to start anything with him.” Liz said, continuing after Lonnie’s nod. “I really should be leaving. Is there anyway you could bring my stuff to school?”

“Sure Liz, I’ll eh try ta bring it Monday.” Lonnie said.

“Okay great! So I had fun tonight! I’ll see you guys at school. Bye Ava, Lonnie...Zan.” Liz said, reluctant to move away from the strong arm that had kept her safe the walk home.

“Nah Liz, that ain’t gonna fly wit me. Zan’ll walk yous home.” Ava said speaking up for the first time since they left the club. Lonnie nodded her agreement and tried to hide her smile.

“Yeah, Zan has nothin betta ta do, sure he won’t mind.” Lonnie said. “I’ll see yas at school Liz.”

Ava said her goodbyes and walked into the door, leaving Lonnie behind to send a wink to Liz and a smile to Zan. “Now you twos be careful, creeps and shit are out tonight.”

Lonnie disapeared into the door, leaving Liz and Zan alone.

Zan removed his arm from her waist with a nervous cough and motioned for her to lead the way. He offered his arm and she took it greedily, seeking his warmth.

They walked in silence for awhile till the reached the next block.

“So yous likes New York yet?” Zan asked with curiosity and a smile.

“Yeah I like it. I haven’t really seen a lot of it yet, since it’s only been a short while since I moved from Roswell. I guess it’s okay, I just wish I knew more people.” Liz answered honestly, looking down at the high-heeled boots.

“What bout your dad? Yous gots him and yous gots da gang and me.” He said, watching as her hair fell gracefully into her face. He casually pushed it back behind her ear, startling her out of her thoughts. He smiled an apology and waited for her answer.

“Yeah, but my Dad, he’s...I don’t know..I don't think he really cares about me. I try to be nice to him and get to know him but it’s so hard. I mean he left my mom and I. Left us.” Liz paused. “I have been trying. We went out yesterday night. He took me to see his gig and we went out to this really corny Italian place down the street from it. We didn’t talk a whole lot.” She let out a laugh, “I don’t know why I’m telling you this. You probably don’t even care, and you definitely aren’t writing a book.”

“If Is did write a book about ya it would be da hottest thing on da market. I wanna know Liz, dat is if ya wanna tell.” Zan said, stuffing his hand in his pocket as the other one relaxed around her waist.

Liz looked over at the man in front of her. His skin dark in the night with his eyes and jewerly shining in the dim moonlight. Her eyes were attracted to his amber pools which seemed to darken with her gaze. They held their gaze, slowly and unconsiously moving forward.

A loud bark made them jump apart, Liz nervously laughing and Zan stuffing his other hand in his jacket.

“Ah, so are wes getting any close ta ya crib?” Zan asked, his gaze making Liz nervous.

Liz looked around the dark street and noticed the old Mercury parked in the street a few feet back from where they were walking from. “Actually we kinda passed it.” She said nervousy laughing to cover up her embarassment.

Zan took her hand and let her led the way back to the appartment building. He opened the gate for her and closed it behind him, jogging up to her as she reached the steps. She turned with her key in her hand, ready to open the door, and faced him. She smiled nervously and Zan sent her his patented cocky smirk.

“So thanks for dancing with me tonight, I know I’m not that good at hip-hop club dancing, but it was nice of you to try.” Liz said, tucking the strand of hair behind her ears again and trying not to lose herself in his eyes again.

“Nah, yous ain’t dat bad of a dancer...ya just need work. Yous wanna maybe let me teachya? We’s can do it afta school on Monday if yous want?” Zan said with a smile.

“Umm sure that would be great, but are you sure you want to do this for me? I mean you saw me tonight!” Liz said with a laugh, thinking back to the scene on the dance floor.

“Like Is said before, Is wants ta know ya, and if dis is a way ta get ta know ya and feel your body on mine, den hell ya.” Zan said with a laugh.

Liz laughed and nodded her consent. “Okay then, Monday after school.” She turned fully to Zan and her face turned solem. “Thanks for walking me home tonight, I did have a great time.”

Zan stepped closer to her, making her heart beat twice as fast in her chest. Her breath quickened as he came closer, her mind chanting over and over ‘he’s going to kiss me!’. “Was worth it,” was all Zan said before his lips covered hers, sending shivers down to her toes.

Liz melted against his body as he pulled her closer and moaned as his tongue licked her lips, forcing them open. His tongue danced with hers, while his hands tightened around her waist. The world shrunk into infinity as they kissed, breaking apart when oxygen was limited.

Liz’s eyes remained closed as she savored the moment, her lips still tingling from the sensation of his lips on hers. She licked her lips once and opened her eyes to see a smiling, dark eyed Zan in front of her.

“Goodnight Zan.” She said smiling back at him, still on her high from the best kiss she had ever recieved.

“Night Liz.” Zan said before slowly backing down the stairs with a giddy smile still on his face, toning the roughness that surrounded his image.

Liz watched till he was past her line of sight and opened the door with a sigh. She bounced up the stairs, not noticing the dirt that she did before. She reached her door and did a little happy dance, half ballet and half working on her hip-hop skills. She opened the door with a smile and flipped on the light, letting out a shriek at the sight of her father sitting on the couch.

“Where were you?” He said in a harsh tone that Liz never heard before.

“Umm I went out with some friends from school. I thought you were getting home late?” Liz said, nervously setting her keys on the desk by the door.

Cal rose from his seat and walked over to Liz. “I’m sure you did think I was going to be home late. How well do you know these kids Liz? Do you even know what time it is?! It’s 1 in the morning! Do you know how worried sick I was!?” He screamed, stopping in front of her.

“I’m sorry. I was safe though, these kids....they are my friends. Nothing is going to happen to me, they even walked me home.” She said scared at her father.

Cal backed off a little and ran a hand down his face. “I’m sorry too. I just...I just don’t want anything to happen to you....you’re all I have left in this world.” He looked up at Liz with a sad look. “Why don’t you get to bed, it’s getting pretty late.”

Liz watched as he walked down the hallway slowly, reaching his door and shutting it after he was safe inside. She thought back to the statement she had made to Zan earlier about her father not caring, and felt bad. He really did care about her, and she abused his trust tonight by not telling him. She always told her mom where she was going......

Tears sprang in Liz’s eyes as she thought about he mother. Her mom would be ashamed of the way she was treating her dad, no matter what he did or didn’t do to them. Liz thought about the way things were going for her tonight and smiled through her tears as she thought about Zan and the mind-blowing kiss they shared tonight.

Liz fell asleep with a smile on her face and tear tracks lining her face as the pale moon hung over the streets of New York City.

TBC

[mad crazy]

Find Yourself
Part 8

Zan walked into the appartment, the love-sick smile still plastered on his face. He kicked off his shoes and noticed that all the lights were off in the room. Thinking that his family had gone to bed, he started to walk to his room.

“You’s really likes her huh Zanny?”

Zan turned with his hand outstretched towards the voice and found Ava sitting on the couch, blanket pulled up over her small body. He walked over and sat down next to her, leaning back on the old frame.

“I think I’m fallin for er.” He said, looking over at Ava who sported a grin.

“I’s knew it! You twos are good for eachotha. Both gots da brains and ya both got dat same soul. Like ya travellers ya know?” She said taking his hand.

Zan looked down at their hands and over at Ava. “Nah, you was always da one dat understood dat shit.” He laughed quietly, hoping to not wake the others. “Ava...you’s not mad bout dis are yas? I mean we’s always been more like brotha and sista den a bonded couple.”

“Nah, I’s don’t thinks of ya of anythin like dat. I’s wants ya ta be happy Zanny, and I knows dat Liz is da person for ya. Plus I’s gots myself a hottie wit a body myself.” She said winking, causing Zan to smile.

“Dat right? Do I’s hafta go talk ta dis guy of yours ta see what exactly he’s lookin fors outta dis?”

“Zan!” Ava said smacking his arm playfully. “I don’t think you’s will like em. He’s sucha cornball, but he makes me laugh like no otha Zan.”

Zan watched Ava’s face and wondered if he got that look when he thought about Liz.

“So who is dis mystery man dat has stolen my Ava’s heart?” He said, noticing how the smile dropped from Ava’s face.

“Zan, I knows Lonnie won’t give a shit bout him, but I’m worried bouts yous and of course Rath. I mean you’s knows how he is bout us going out with humans.” Ava said as she got up on her knees facing Zan.

“Ava, just tell me who da guy is. You’s knows I don’t care bout dat sorta shit, and if Rath has anythin to say bout it, he’s gonna hear from me.” Zan said running pulling her towards him with his arm, keeping it around her shoulders as she fell into his shoulder.

“Kyle Valenti. Da football jock. We’s was paired up for dis school thing and I spent so much time wit him dat we both started ta like eachotha. He makes me laugh wit his cornball jokes and he’s sucha great guys Zanny. But I’m so scared wit what you’s are all gonna say bout it.” She turned her head to look into his face at his reaction.

“Kyle huh? Well dats not who I woulda pegged you wit, but if he’s da one dat you wanna be wit, den do it. You’s knows if anyone gives ya trouble ta come and get me right?” Zan asked, watching the full blown smile emerge on Ava’s face.

“Yeah Zanny. Thanks.” She said, getting up to hug him.

Zan held onto Ava’s small frame and was happy with her choice in guys, even though he would never say that outloud. He knew Kyle was a great guy. Zan had never heard of him getting into any kind of trouble at all.

Ava pulled back and smiled at Zan. “I’s betta get ta bed. It’s late, you’s should be too. Dream bout Lizzie.” She winked and got off the couch, walking down the dark hallway to the room she shared with Lonnie.

Zan sat on the couch for awhile, staring towards the ceiling for no reason. He slowly got off the couch and followed the same path Ava did to his room. He opened the door and switched on the light, closing the door to make sure the light didn’t wake the girls across the hall.

He turned towards his dresser when he spotted Rath sitting on his bed, staring impatiently at him.

“What the fuck do you’s want Rath? It’s fucking 2 in da mornin, I want some sleep.” Zan said casually taking off his shirt and walking towards his closet.

“What da fuck do you’s think you’s doin wit dat human chick?” Rath said standing up and walking over to where Zan was.

Zan turned around to face his friend, his amber eyes flashing in anger. “What da fuck are you’s talkin bout?! What right do you’s have ta come in ere and fuckin ask me bout my life?”

Rath showed no emotion or intent to back down. “You’s knows bout da foursquare Zan, I’ve already hooked up with Lonnie, now’s you’s and Ava gotta get together. Dat Liz girl, she ain’t it for ya man. She’s a fuckin human, and dats all humans are ta us, a fuck. So fuck er and leave her.”

Rath started to turn around but Zan was faster to act. He grabbed Rath’s arm and pushed him up against the wall, making sure that Rath’s face was looking at him.

“Don’t EVA say shit like dat again! Got me?! I swear Rath if you’s do anythin to Liz or any otha human I will kill you. You’s thinks dat you’s da man?! Well guess what? Dat’s me. I’m da fuckin man and I call da fuckin shots. I never believed in da fuckin ‘foursquare’. It’s a fuckin fairytale sent by our parents who wanted us ta be exactly as we were back in da day when we was da shit on Antar. Guess what Rath? We ain’t on Antar
anymore. I want ta be wit Liz, so I’m gonna be with Liz. You’s got no say in dat got me?”

Rath could feel Zan’s anger pouring off him in waves. He knew that this was a lost battle and chastised himself for starting this fight. He nodded his head as well as he could against the cold wall.

Zan released his friend and walked toward his closet, slipping off his jeans and socks. “I’s thought I’s knew ya betta than dat Rath. I’s thought we was tight. Den you’s pulls dis shit here tonight and you started dat shit at da club. Whats up man?”

Rath lowered his head. “Sorry man, I’s just feels like I’m losin ya. I mean dis Liz girl shows up and ya neva da same. I hardly see yas anymore and ya two aren’t even going out. Whats gonna happen when you’s are?”

Zan looked up at his brother. “You’s knows we tight. You’s always been my brotha you’s always will.”

“Yeah man, I gots your back.” Rath said, still looking down.

“You’s wanna tell me bout da club Rath?” Zan said sitting down on his matress on the floor of his room.

Rath looked up at Zan, “I’s was sitting at da table and Lonnie was ova wit dis chick I don’t like and Nicky came up ta da side of da table wit some of his little shits he brings wit him. He didn’t see me cause he started talkin bout how you’s was on da dance floor wit Liz and how he was gonna finally kill ya den and der. So I went up behind him and I got two of his little crones but not him and dis otha guy. You saw da rest.”

“Ya shoulda come and got Ava and I. You’s know we’s betta as a team man.” Zan said rubbing his face. He was tired of all this shit in his life and he was ready to dream about one of the only good things, Liz.

“Ya mad Zan?” Rath said, still shaken and embarassed from his run in with him earlier.

“Nah man, I understand where’s you’s comin from, I’s prob do da same thing. It’s late man, we’ll talk more in da mornin.” Zan said laying down on his bed.

Rath walked over to the door and looked back at Zan. “Sorry man bout Liz.”

“No prob Rath, just remember my little promise.”

Rath walked out of the room to leave Zan looking at the ceiling. He almost felt bad about what Rath had said, he never knew that he felt that way about the group. Rath needed to understand that they had to go their separate ways from the group, it was the only way to blend in with the humans.

He closed his eyes and thought of Liz. She looked good tonight, even if her dancing could use some work, but he planned on fixing that. He thought about the way her lips felt against his. He had never felt this way about anyone before, and he hoped that this feeling would last a long time.


TBC

[mad crazy]

**Disclaimer**- I don't own save the last dance nor Missy Elliots' song "I'm really hot"...I'm juts borrowing them.

Find Yourself
Part 9

Zan walked into the cafeteria after the last of the students left. It had been a long day and right now he was happy that it was the end of the day and he would finally get to be up close to Liz.

It had been hard to stand behind her in Chemistry, and in lunch he had tried to sit next to her and eat, but there was no moving Franki and Cin from their worship of the girls. He smiled as he thought of how up close he was about to have Liz.

He set down his stereo and his bookbag and sat on one of the tables, cracking his knuckles as he waited for Liz.

“You know cracking knuckles make them chunky and big?”

Zan looked up to see Liz walking towards him with a smile on her face and bookbag on her shoulders. He smiled and jumped down off the table, walking to meet her as she got closer.

“Sorry I’m late, Lonnie and Ava just couldn’t stop talking outside.” Liz said, still smiling as she stood in front of him.

“Eh, no big. I’m used ta dem talkin. What time you’s gots ta be home?” Zan asked taking her bookbag and setting it next to his.

“I highly doubt we could be here till dark, so I’m good. My Dad couldn’t pick me up after school anyways.”

“Ahh so I’s got you’s ta myself for a very long time? That’s always golden ta me.” Zan said stepping up in front of Liz and grabbing both sides of her waist. He smiled as she stiffened, then relaxed, and laughed.

“What do you say we get started huh? I need all the help I can get.” Liz said nervously laughing at the proximity of Zan.

“What no hello kiss?” Zan smirked as Liz looked up at him, nervousness shining in her eyes. He slowly lowered his face to hers and let his lips brush up against hers. He felt her return the kiss and smiled as he opened his eyes and pulled away.

He grinned as he looked upon Liz’s closed eyes and smirking mouth. He cleared his throat and let his hands drop from her sides. She opened his eyes and smiled at him.

“Let’s see what you’s got’s Parker.” Zan said, turning around to turn on the stereo.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

They had been working for about a half an hour by now and Liz was dead tired and hardly any better.

“I just can’t get this!” Liz screamed, rubbing her hands over her face in frustration.

“Nah, you’re doin betta, you’s just gotta loosen up a little. You’re so damn tense.” Zan said, walking up behind Liz. He put his hands on her neck and started to rub in a slow motion. Liz relaxed under his hands and let her eyes close from the friction of Zan’s hands against her skin.

“Maybe we’s startin dis da wrong way. Maybe we’s should start wit da basics?” Zan said removing his hands from Liz’s neck. Liz moaned at the lost, but opened her eyes to face Zan who was currently pulling down chairs from the cafeteria tables.

She raised an eyebrow at the sight and walked over to where he was placing the chairs. “What are you doing Zan?” She asked, crossing her arms over her chest.

“I’m gonna teach ya hows ta sit so your body ain’t so stiff.” He turned around and faced her, mimicking her stance. “Sit.”

Liz looked quizically at him and let out a little chuckle. She gracefully placed herself on the seat and brought her knees together, her hands resting in her lap and her shoulders straight and back. With her head held high, she turned to Zan to see him laughing.

“What the fuck is that?” He laughed. “You sit like dat everyday?”

“For your information...yes I do. Do you have a problem with that?” Liz asked defiantly, her head raising higher in the air.

“No wonders you so stiff.” Zan walked over to the chair and plopped down, his arm falling over the back of the chair as his leg stretched out to the side. He let his head fall back and looked over at Liz smirking. “Dat’s how you’s sit. Relaxed. Not like you’s got a stick up your ass.”

Liz’s mouth formed an “O” until she saw Zan start to chuckle. She reached over and smacked him across the chest. “Do tell how I may be exactly like you, Oh Great one.” Liz laughed and batted her eyelashes.

“Oh I see how it is. You’s wanna be like dat.” Zan started to get up but Liz jumped up and held him down laughing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Liz slouched for the hundreth time that day, her arm falling over the back of the chair and her legs wide apart. Zan sat next to her, the stance mimicked as he smiled.

“Now I’m cool?” Liz said laughing at Zan.

“Yeah Princess you’s gettin der.” Zan said laughing.

Zan got up and put the chairs back in place on the tables. He walked over to the stereo and flipped the switch sending loud waves of hip-hop echoing through the large room.

Let me holla' at the d.j.
Come on d.j. put that record on the replay
Don't you see how them bitches move they bootay
Everytime you play this record, smell like coochie
Follow dem',Screamin' like a groupay
Misdemeanor move my nookie like a hoochay
For them hatas fuck whatever you say
Because you know I'm too cool for you anyway
I'm just a bad bitch
M-I-S,Miss

“Now we’s get down to business.” He said standing next to Liz. “Just remember dat you’s gotta be loose.”

Liz nodded nervously as she heard the song pump out through the speakers. Zan came close to her and she watched as his feet went apart and his shoulders moved back and forth, rocking with the music.

She mimicked the stance and moved her shoulders back and forth, her arms swinging back and forth with the music.

I'm gonna' keep talkin' shit till you get this
I'm gonna' bust up in the club wit' no guest list
Them otha' artist, I keep em' all restless
I don't french kiss unless it's 50 cent
Vivica,we can share him like the president
Tabloids,I don't care,it's irrelevant,I'm heaven sent
Now watch how I do this shit

“Dat’s great, remember ta loosen up and let your shoulders move wit da music.” Zan said as he watched Liz’s body move to the music. Her steps were a little clumsy as she started but soon the rhythm.

Zan started to move his feet back and forth in time with his shoulders, his movements slow so Liz could get them. Liz’s feet clumsily tripped back and forth the first try, but soon let the music lead her in her movements.

Zan walked over to Liz and stood in front of her, their movements mirroring eachother as the music played.

I'm really, really hot
Everytime my records drop
Radio says I won't stop
Cus' I'm killin' em'
You don't know whatcha' talkin' bout
You would think I was Sug when I come out
My album hit hard when I roll out
Yall records make a bitch wanna' throw em out
And that's no doubt
See I rock bells
Fly as hell and cool as
Baby can't ya' tell

They moved in tune with the music, Liz’s dancing improving every chorus as the song went on. Liz looked up from her feet to meet Zan’s eyes. She grinned at him, making him smile back as they danced.

Soon Liz’s footwork was smooth and she had learned the basics as the song came to a close.

I lick my lips like I'm L.L.
And I'm doin' it,and doin' it,and doin' it well
Straight to the hotel
I'm cellabut so,boy,you gets no tell
Kiss,kiss and still you gets nowhere
Just two blue balls down in yo' underwear
I play unfair
I'm a hot gal
Hot cars and stars and strip bars
And ain't hot if I'm not there
I'm a true playa'
You can find me up in any record store
Hurry up and get chere

Zan stepped away with Liz with a smile and walked to turn off the stereo before the next song came on. He turned and faced Liz, his smile never leaving his face.

“You’s did kick ass for a beginner Liz.” Zan said walking slowly towards Liz. “Soon you’s gonna be as hot as me.” He laughed at Liz’s face, her eyebrow cocked up in question.

“Eh, you ain’t all that.” Liz said laughing. She turned to pick up her bookbag, ignoring the look on Zan’s face as he stuttered and put a hand to his chest.

“I ain’t all dat? Did ya forget who ya talkin to here? I’m da man Liz.” Zan said, smile on his face.

“Prove it.” Liz nodded towards him.

Zan shook his head and walked confidently over to the floor. His feet moved to an invisible rhythm as he smoothly turned and dropped to the floor, his legs moving in a split position for a brief second before he pushed up and landed on his feet.

He walked over to Liz with his arms spread out. “Now how’s can you’s say I ain’t da shit.”

Liz brushed past him with the air of confidence as she closed her eyes. Her body moved to a beat long since forgotten, her footwork smooth to the eye as she moved her body. She let her body twist downward, her leg reaching up towards the ceiling, hooking past Zan’s astonished face. She calmly dropped her leg and walked back behind Zan, her arms stiff at her side.

“Now what da fuck was dat?” Zan asked chuckling.

“Oh nothing, just something I picked up.” Liz said as she put on her jacket.

“Didn’t look like somethin you’s can just pick up.” He said, crossing his arms as he stood in front of her.

“It’s just a little ballet. I used to dance, but...not anymore.”

“And why’s dat?”

“Because I don’t okay? Jeeze can we just drop it?” Liz said, her voice raising to get the point across.

Zan came to stand in front of Liz, his hands going up to her shoulders as he looked into her eyes. “Okay, sorry I pushed. What do you’s say we gets going? It’s gettin kinda late, wouldn’t want ya ta get in trouble now would we?”

Liz smiled at his effort and nodded. “Yeah. Do you really thing it’ll be okay for us to practice here?”

“Nah, but I’s knows a place dat we can go...So longs you’s up for it.” Zan asked, patented smirk on his face.

“Ha! You know it.” Liz said, trying out her best New York accent.

Zan laughed and put his arm around her, picking up his stereo before they walked out the door.

TBC

[mad crazy]

Find Yourself
Part 10

Liz shut her locker with a bang and turned to her bag resting on the bench in the locker room.

“Yo Liz! Here’s ya clothes from da club.”

Liz looked up with a smile at Lonnie and Ava, who were walking towards her in the now empty locker room. She reached out and took the clothes with a quick thanks and stuffed them into her gym bag.

“Yo Liz, girl ya need some new digs if ya know what I’m sayin.” Ava said, slightly chuckling at Liz’s outfit of a navy blue sweater and jeans.

“Ya know what I’s thinks?...Time fa a shoppin outing!” Lonnie said, turning to Ava to recieve a high five.

Liz looked down at her clothes and back at the two teens who were grinning like Chesire cats. Maybe it was time for a change, she thought and smiled at the two. “Sure, why not? When do you guys wanna go?”

“Well whatcha doin tonight Liz afta school? You chillin wit my bro?” Lonnie asked, shoving her hands into her low riding jeans with a nod of her head.

“Nope, not today. I think I’m okay to go, my Dad isn’t going to be home till around 8, he has a jig.” Liz finished pancking her stuff up in her bag and hoisted it on her shoulder.

“So den it’s kosher, we’s leave afta school. In da front of da school, afta school...be der.” Ava said, smiling.

The bell rang and girls started to file into the locker room, chit-chat filling the air. Liz looked at the girls and back to Lonnie and Ava.

“Well guys, see ya later. I better get to class.” She said as the three girls walked out of the now crowded room. “See ya outside.”

“Only three more periods left till we’s outa dis joint.” Ava said, closing her eyes and letting her head fall back. Liz and Lonnie laughed, each walking in their separate direction till the end of the day.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“The Hydrochloric acid is dilute so you have a good amount of time until you will feel the damage of it landing on your skin. I want you to slowly pour the acid into the beaker, then add the iron.”

Liz propped her head up on her hand and watched as her Chemistry teacher gave a demo on the lab they were about to do. She looked over at Maria who sat hunched over her notebook, writing little details as she saw them. Liz slowly leaned over to her, careful to not tip over the equipment.

“You know, we have a lab worksheet that says all this right? You don’t have to write all this stuff down.” Liz whispered, watching as Maria looked up quickly, pushing her black glasses further up her nose.

“You can never have too much information Liz. Always better to be over-prepared than under.” Maria gave her a short smile and turned back to the notebook, writing furiously to catch up with the explanation.

Liz shook her head at the girl and went back to her position, her eyes slowly closing in response to the teacher’s monotone voice. She heard the soft sound of something hitting the floor and opened her eyes, casting a glance at the floor underneath her. A small piece of folded paper lay under her seat with her name written on the top in a unfamilar script.

She looked around the room and her eyes landed on Zan who was laying on the desk, a grin on his face as he winked at her. Liz let out a chuckle and bent over, her one hand on the desk to keep her steady as she retrieved the paper.

She returned to her position, not willing to acknowledge the curious look Maria sent her way. She opened the folds carefully, looking up to see the teacher working on lighting the bunsen burner.

Liz shoved the note under her desk, keeping the contents secret from her partner who had put her pencil down to lean over towards Liz. She slowly read the note under the shadow of her book.

we meeting 2nite?

Liz frowned as she remembered her shopping trip with the girls. She picked up her pencil and scribbled a short note back.

Sorry : ( I made plans 2 go out w/ ur sister + Ava 2night.

She slowly leaned back in her chair, her back meeting the cold lab table behind her. She kept her eyes on the teacher as she casually dropped the paper on the desk in front of Zan. She returned to her position for a second and then turned to look at Zan with a frown.

Zan looked up at Liz, his one eyebrow up in question. Liz mouthed sorry, turning around in her seat after she recieved a nod from Zan.

Lab went slow that day for Liz, her excitement over the shopping trip with Ava and Lonnie taking over her want to learn.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Liz walked out of the school, people on either side of her as she searched the front lawn for the gang. She noticed a hand moving back from the sidewalk and she followed the hand to see Lonnie smiling.

Liz walked down the steps towards the four teens, looking from Ava and Lonnie to a grinning Zan and a silent Rath. “Hey guys.”

“Hey Liz you’s ready ta go?” Ava asked smile on face.

“Yeah, I’m ready whenever.” She answered, blushing as she caught Zan’s wink towards her.

“Where you’s goin?” Zan asked curious of whether he should be afraid or not.

“Just ta do some shoppin...no big.” Lonnie said, waving it off with her hand.

Rath laughed and turned to Zan. “Your gonna let dem take your girl shoppin? HA! You’s might neva see hers again.”

Zan laughed as Lonnie smacked Rath on the arm. “We’s not dat bad kay? Jeez, see if you’s gets any lovin tonight.”

Zan covered his ears and shivered, sending Liz into a fit of giggles as she watched the family interact.

Ava linked her arm through Liz and Lonnie’s, looking towards the boys. “We’s leavin...don’t ‘spect us back fo-”

“eva” Rath said laughing causing Zan to laugh.

“Whateva...later bro, Rathard.” Lonnie glared, leading Ava and Liz down the street towards the mall.

TBC...hopefully soon...