The House (AU, ADULT, M/L) ~{COMPLETE}~

[Lady Scorpio]

Hey All,

First off, thanks for all your wishes and prayers for my son. His test finally came back, and they show no abnormalities (thank you lord). He's doiing better, and the doctors are calling it just a childhood sickness, in other words they don't know, and since he's better, they're not going to question it. I'm just glad he's able to get a goodnight's sleep for once, which means I get a good nights sleep. I'll keep you posted if anything comes up, prayerfully everything is fine.

Now, I know you'll been waiting on this next part, so I won't keep you waiting long. I hope you enjoy, and thanks again for your prayers.

XOXOXOXOXO

LS................


Chapter 19b

~Wedding Day~

Maria awoke to the most horrific sound. Climbing out of the bed, she threw on her robe, and followed the sound to the bathroom. There, she found Liz kneeling before the toilet, puking her guts out.

“Oh sweetie” Maria rushed over, holding her hair back as she battled with another round of sickness. “Are you okay” Maria asked her once she was finished. She handed her a cold wet towel. Liz nodded, sending her a grateful smile as she sat on the edge of the tub.

“God, I hope I’m not this nervous on my wedding day” Maria chuckled, sitting down beside her.

“It’s not nerves....I’m pregnant” Liz announced.

“WHAT!?!?!” Maria shouted.

“Shhh” Liz admondish, clamping her hand over her friends mouth. “You’re going to wake everyone” she removed her hand, and the moment she did Maria shrieked. Liz covered her mouth once again. “Maria!” Liz rolled her eyes playfully at her. “now you have to promise me that if I remove my hand, you won’t shriek, scream or shout” she waited on Maria to nod in agreement, before removing her hand once again.

“Oh my god Liz...how..I mean I know how....but when...wha.what...oh my god” she pulled Liz into a bear hug. “when did you find out” she finally asked after she got herself together.

“Two days ago” Liz beamed. “I haven’t been feeling well for the last few weeks. At first I thought it was just my nerves over the wedding, but then I couldn’t shake this, well what I thought was a stomach virus. I went to the doctor the other day, and she called and told me” Liz had been shocked when Dr. Smith had informed her that her little stomach bug would be around for the next nine months.

“Oh my god, you’re going to be a mommy” Maria cried throwing her arms around her again.

“I know..I mean I’m still trying to wrap my mind around it. But I know it has to be true, because it seems the moment it was confirmed, I started getting morning sickness” she chuckled. “What are you doing” she asked as she watched Maria lift her shirt and get on her knees in front of her.

“Hello in there, I’m your Aunt Ria and I’m going to spoil you rotten” she grinned. Liz rolled her eyes.

“Maria, you can’t say anything to anyone....I haven’t even told Max yet”

“But..”

“Maria!” Liz raised an eyebrow at her. “No one, not even Michael.”

“But that’s not fair, I find out I’m going to be an aunt, and I can’t even tell anyone” she pouted. Liz pulled her friend into a hug. “I know sweetie, but I promise, once I’ve told Max, you have my permission to blabber it out to the world” the two of them laughed, sharing another embrace.

“Come on girl, we got to go and get you married” the two friends linked arms, and got ready to prepare for Liz’s big day.

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

“Oh Liz, you look beautiful” Nancy cried as she stared at her daughter in the mirror. Liz smoothed her hand over the front of her dress, and smiled at her mother.

“Thank you mom”

“I can’t believe my little girl’s getting married” Nancy wiped at her tears.

“Mom, don’t cry. because you’re going to make me cry, and Isabel will have a cow if I ruin my make-up” she joked.

“I know...but I can’t help it” not caring about wrinkling her dress, Liz turned and threw her arms around her moms waist. Mother and daughter held on to each other as their tears fell.

“I don’t know if I tell you this enough Liz, but I’m proud of you sweetie, and Max is a fine young man, and I couldn’t be more happier to hand you over to his care” Nancy smiled through her tears.

“Thank you mommy” there was a knock on the door and the room was soon overflowing with women. Isabel narrowed her eyes at Liz as she noticed her make-up. She rolled her eyes and smiled, knowing how emotional mothers can get at wedding. She had to reapply her own make-up twice on her wedding day, because her mom would cry every time she entered the changing room.

“Check you out Chica, Aphrodite doesn’t have anything on you” Maria beamed, pulling her friend into an embrace.

“Yeah Liz, Max might kill over when he sees you” Tess smiled as she moved in for her own embrace.

“You guys look great yourselves” Liz told her maid of honor and bridesmaids.

“Liz” Diane smiled through her tears as she captured her soon to be daughter-in-laws hands. “I can’t tell you how overjoyed I am that my son finally found someone that has just as big of a heart as he does. When Max loves, he loves completely, with his whole heart, and I’m just so happy that he was able to find someone that could return that love..” the waterworks were in full effect, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. “..Max has been through a lot, and he’s a strong man, but even the strongest of man needs an even stronger woman at his side. Liz, you’ve loved my son and granddaughter unconditionally, brought love, joy and happiness to them, and for that, I’m proud to have such a wonderful, beautiful, smart woman as my daughter” Diane dissolved into tears.

“Okay, if we keep this up, you’ll never walk down that aisle, and I don’t think my brother would stand for that” Isabel laughed, wiping at her eyes.

“Mommy look” six year old Kelsey barged through the door, showing off her dress and matching flower wreath, Amber following closely behind her. “Don’t I look pretty” she smiled, twirling around for everyone to see.

“You look lovely Sweetie” Tess answered.

“Like a fairy” Liz replied to her little flowergirl.

“Thank you aunt Liz, you look pretty too, like a princess”

“She’s right mom, you look beautiful” the others in the room stared in shock at Amber calling Liz mom. She’d never called her that around anyone but Max and Liz. Liz could never get enough of hearing her say it. Each time she called her ‘mom’, her heart would swell with happiness. They had come a long way in the last two years. From being rivals, to forming the mother-daughter relationship they now share. Since their meeting with Lillian in the park, Amber hadn’t said much about her birth mother. When asked about her feelings regarding her mother, Amber would quickly find something that she suddenly had to do. Max and Liz decided they weren’t going to pressure her on it, but they let her know that they were there for her whenever she was ready.

“Thank you honey, so are you...where have you been, I’ve been looking for you” she tweaked her nose, causing her to giggle.

“I was with daddy...and he gave me a message for you” Amber smiled.

“He did?”

“Um hum, but he said it was for your ears only” she motioned Liz down so that she could whisper in her ear. Liz smiled widened as she listened to Max’s message, her heart expanding even more as the thought of how much she loved that man.

“Knock..knock..everyone decent in there” Jeff said as he cautiously stuck his head in. Seeing that the coast was clear, he stepped in fully. “I was sent by a very impatient groom to retrieve his bride” he announced.

“This is it Lizzie...you’re about to get married boo” Maria spoke in awe. “I’ll see you out there...I love you” with one finally hug, she left the room.

“Alright girl, give me some love” Tess said as she gave Liz a hug before she too went to take her spot next to Kyle.

“Let me take a look at you” Isabel gushed as she worked her magic to savage Liz’s make-up.

“Thank you Isabel” Liz smiled once she was finished. With one final hug from Isabel, Diane and her mom, Liz was left alone with her father. Jeff stared at his daughter, his little girl. For years he had dreaded this day. The day were he was to give his daughter over to another man. He had always thought that he would hate that man. The man that his daughter would now turn to when in her times of need. He was no longer the number one man in her life, and it made him inhaled sharply at the realization.

“Babygirl, you look beautiful” he kissed her on the cheek, fighting back his tears.

“Thank you daddy” she smiled shyly. Seeing the tears swimming in his eyes, Liz threw herself into his arms. “I love you daddy” Jeff squeezed her tight like he use to when she was little.

“I love you too Lizzie...come on, lets get you down that aisle.”

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

Max smiled at his parents as they walked down the aisle. His mother was trying her best not to cry, but it was useless. His father sent him a proud smile, before they took there seats. Next was Nancy, as she walked on the arms of Tad. Max had to refrain from laughing as he watched Michael and Maria come down the aisle. Michael was fidgeting with his tie and pulling on the jacket of his tux. He was clearly uncomfortable. He could tell Maria was doing her best not to strangle him. Tess and Kyle were next, and they wore the same matching smiles. They shared an intense look before taking their positions at the alter. Max wondered if they really thought that their reconciled relationship was really a secret. Even though they hadn’t officially announced that they were back together, everyone already knew. Max was happy for them. He wished everyone the same happiness that he and Liz had found. Max focused back towards the back of the church. This time Max couldn’t hold back his laughter as he watched Isabel and Alex walk down the aisle.

“I can believe you’re actually wearing that thing...my god you’re embarrassing me” Isabel said through clutched teeth, with the perfect smiled still plastered on her face.

“Well it serves you right for spending my hard earned money on some stripper” she turned surprised eyes on him, but he kept his smiled in place. Once they got to the alter, he tipped his top hat at her, and winked at her. Max could tell she was fuming inside, but throughout it all she kept right on smiling. The music continued to play softly in the background as Travis made his way down the aisle. His lips were moving as if silently talking to himself, and he had a serious look of concentration on his face as he balanced the pillow in his hands.

“I did it daddy” he shouted loudly, and proudly, causing everyone to laugh, and his parents to blush in embarrassment. Once everyone finished laughing, they turned their attention back to the back of the church were Amber stood. Max felt the first bout of tears come over him as he stared as his little girl. She was dressed in a lavender halter top dress, much like the bridesmaids, but instead of being strapless, hers had two rhinestone straps and instead of flowing straight down like the others, hers flared at the waist into a bell shape. Her hair was piled on top of her head, ringlets of curls fell around the small tiara wrapped around them. She smiled brightly as she made her way down the aisle. He could tell she was nervous by the way she clutched the small bouquet tightly in her hands. Max straightened up taller as little Kelsey made her way down the aisle, tossing rose petals here and there. Unlike her brother, she loved the attention, and would pause to wave to the people in the audience. Max knew what was coming next as the ushers closed the large church doors.

The first strings of ‘You are So Beautiful’ began to play over the speakers, and the crowd all turned their attention to the back of the church.

“This is it Babygirl..” Jeff smiled through his tears. His hand covering hers that wrapped around his arm. “You know Lizzie, I may not have told you, but I’m so happy that you were able to find a man like Max. I must admit, I’m sad to be handing you over today..” he shook his head when she was about to say something, “..but I must say that I couldn’t be prouder to hand you over to such a wonderful man, that I know will only treat you right, and bring happiness to you...I love you Lizzie”

“I love you too daddy” her eyes were already misting over as the thought that soon she would be standing next to her Love, and they would pledge their love to one another for eternity.

“Ready?” Jeff asked, hearing the music signaling their cue. Unable to find her words, Liz nodded instead, and tighten her hold on his arm. She took a deep breath, as the doors were peeled open. Max couldn’t breathe, as her beautiful face was revealed to him. She smiled at him, and for the first time since the wedding began, he felt his knees wobble, and his palms grew sweaty. She was like a breathe of fresh air. His eyes pulled away from hers to rake over her small form. She was dressed in a simple, ivory colored dress. It had a scoop neck, that elongated her neck. It flowed straight down, and there was a two small slits that traveled just above her knees. A small smile touched his lips as he came to her small bare feet. Liz was nervous about falling on her face as she walked down the aisle, so she forgo the shoes, and settled on an old bracelet of her grandmothers, that she converted to an anklet. Her hair was swept up in a array of curls, as a few strands escaped to frame her face. In her hand she carried a bouquet of lillies and lavender. Max couldn’t remember ever seeing such a beautiful sight. He mouthed ‘I love you’ as she made her way towards him, and felt his heart leap when she returned it. Jeff leaned over and kissed his daughter as he placed her hands in Max’s.

“We are gathered here today...” the Rev. Joseph began, but Max and Liz didn’t hear a word he said. Fore they were to focused on each other, and quickly forgot the others in the church as they stared into each others eyes. “Maxwell and Elizabeth have prepared their own vows for this joyous occasion...Maxwell” Rev. Joseph turned to Max. Max had a goofy smile on his face, but he still didn’t hear the reverend when he turned to him. Everyone waited. Maria and Tess giggled, and Isabel rolled her eyes with a smile.

“Max” Michael hissed, nudging him in the back. Snapping out of ‘Lizland’ Max turned to the reverend, who gave him a knowing smirk.

“Sorry..” he mumbled, he blushed furiously. Clearing his throat, Max turned to Liz. “Liz, I know we were suppose to write our vows, and for the last four months I’ve been wracking my brains on what I would like to say. Because I wanted them to be special. But I just couldn’t come up with the right words to express how I feel” he motioned to Maria, who handed her bouquet to Tess. “One day while I was at work, and bored out my mind, a song played over the radio, and all I remember saying was that was it. This song said everything I felt...Liz I want you listen to the words, and know that every one of them is how you make me feel” he captured her hand in his and place a kiss upon it. Maria stepped off the alter and stood in front of them. She winked at Michael, before she began singing.

For all those times you stood by me
For all the truth that you made me see
For all the joy you brought to my life
For all the wrong that you made right
For every dream you made come trueFor all the love I found in you
I'll be forever thankful baby
You're the one who held me up
Never let me fall
You're the one who saw me through, through it all

You were my strength when I was weak
You were my voice when I couldn't speak
You were my eyes when I couldn't see
You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn't reach
You gave me faith 'cause you believed
I'm everything I am
Because you loved me

Tears streamed down Liz’s face as she listened to the words of the song.

You gave me wings and made me fly
You touched my hand I could touch the sky
I lost my faith, you gave it back to me
You said no star was out of reach
You stood by me and I stood tall
I had your love I had it all
I'm grateful for each day you gave me
Maybe I don't know that much
But I know this much is true
I was blessed because I was loved by you

You were my strength when I was weak
You were my voice when I couldn't speak
You were my eyes when I couldn't see
You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn't reach
You gave me faith 'cause you believed
I'm everything I am
Because you loved me

You were always there for me
The tender wind that carried me
A light in the dark shining your love into my life
You've been my inspiration
Through the lies you were the truth
My world is a better place because of you

You were my strength when I was weakYou were my voice when I couldn't speak
You were my eyes when I couldn't see
You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn't reach
You gave me faith 'cause you believed
I'm everything I am
Because you loved me

You were my strength when I was weak
You were my voice when I couldn't speak
You were my eyes when I couldn't see
You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn't reach
You gave me faith 'cause you believed
I'm everything I am
Because you loved me

I'm everything I am
Because you loved me

The wasn’t a dry eye in the church once Maria finished. Clearing his throat, the Reverend turned to Liz. “Elizabeth, you may now recite your vows” he smiled at the young woman.

“Wow...how I’m I suppose to follow that” she chuckled slightly. Max rubbed his thumb across the back of her hand comfortingly. Liz stared up into his eyes, and felt the love radiating from him. “Max, from the first moment I saw you, it was like love at first sight for me” she trembled. “I thought, who was this man, that could make me feel so much towards him, and I don’t even know his last name” this time everyone else chuckled. “Everyday with you is magical. You’re the love of my life, and I thank God each and every day for blessing me with such a warm, gentle, loving man as you...” Max had told himself he wasn’t going to cry. Because it was unmanly to cry, right? But as he listened to her words his heart felt like it was going to burst, knowing that someone as special as her could love him as much as he loved her, his tears flowed freely down his cheeks. “...some people search their entire lives for that one person, their soulmate, and I’m overwhelmed that I was able to find mine..I love you”

“I love you too” they took a minute to compose their selves.

“The rings please” Michael and Maria handed the reverend the rings. “These rings represent the symbol of your love. They will bound you together to death do you part” he handed Liz Max’s ring. With shaky hands, Liz slid the ring onto Max’s finger, before placing a tender kiss on it. Next he hand Max Liz’s ring. With equally shaky hands, Max slid her ring in place, and repeating her action, he brought her hand to his lips, and kissed her ring, a token of their love. Rev. Joseph placed his hand over their joined ones.

“The love the two of you possess and that God has blessed, let no man tear that apart” he said a silent prayer. “By the will of God, I now pronounce you man and wife, you may kiss your bride Maxwell” time stood still as Max cupped Liz’s face, and she leaned into his touch. His thumb caressed her cheek, as he slowly leaned in. The first touch of his lips to hers was like heaven. Liz sighed against his lips, and felt him wrap his arms around her waist, pulling her tighter against him. Max tried not to let five days of not kissing her control his actions, but he couldn’t help it as he drove deeper into her mouth. Liz wrapped her arms around his neck, welcoming his assault.

“Um..” a throat cleared beside them, and giggles could be heard all around. “Lets keep this rated G” Michael hissed as the two got lost in their own world. Seeing that they weren’t hearing him. Michael thumped Max on the ear as hard as he could. Max pulled away abruptly, and turned scowling eyes on him. “Save it for the honeymoon” Michael grinned, causing both Max and Liz to turn a nice shade of red.

“Ladies and Gentleman....I’m proud to introduce you to Mr. and Mrs. Maxwell Raymond Evans” the church exploded in applause and whistles, as Max and Liz smiled brightly before making the way down the aisle, the wedding party following close behind.




Because you Loved Me~~~Celine Dion

You are so Beautiful~~~Joe Cocker





A/N.......I'm I being to detailed on the wedding stuff? The next part is the reception/honeymoon..and I was wondering if I'm including to much. I don't know I have this whole reception planned out, but if it seems like to much, I can skip it. I just wanted to throw some happines in....you know the calm before the storm. Let me know what you think

[Lady Scorpio]

Hey All,

Sorry for the delay, I know you've been waiting patiently for the next post, so I'm not going to keep you waiting. Just a quick note, the links are snippets of the songs played at the reception.

Warning...the following part contains NC-17 material.


Chapter 19c

Once the wedding pictures were taken and the guest greeted the newlyweds, they all headed out to Redwood Ranch, were Rachael was gracious enough to allow them to have there reception.

“Um..mum..” Michael cleared his throat, tapping his spoon on his glass. The loud laughter and talking ceased as Michael stood up. “I guess since I’m the Best Man, it’s customary for me to make some sort of speech. Well..those of you that know me, know that I’m not the one to make formal speeches, in fact I suck at them” everyone laughed, and Michael squirmed slightly. “Anyways, I’ve known Max since we were six years old, and throughout the years he has gone from being my best friend to my brother” Max smiled, knowing exactly what he meant. “We’ve been through a lot together...he was there for me when I needed him, never questioning my actions....just stood by me, and I’m eternal grateful for that...Liz..” he tilted his glass at her, “Since the day that you walked into Max’s life, he has had this permanent smile plastered on his face” he chuckled, “I know you’ve probably heard this a lot lately, but it’s true. You’ve brought so much love and happiness to Max. You’re a great person, and I’m happy that he has you” he leaned over and kissed her cheek. “judging from the glare Isabel is giving me, my time is running short” this earned him a round of laughter from everyone. “I just want to end by saying that I wish the two of you eternal happiness..and lots and lots of babies....to Max and Liz” he lifted his glass high in toast.

“To Max and Liz” the crowd returned.

“Okay, I guess it’s my turn” Maria smiled, as she stood up. “Um as you all know, Liz has been my girl since we were fresh out the oven” she laughed and Liz smile brightened. “Liz has always been the reasonable one, the one that looked at every angle before making a decision. So two years ago when I begged her to by a house, who would have thought that in the process she would find her soulmate...see aren’t you glad you caved” she winked. “I knew Liz had it bad for Max the moment he stopped wrestling Pepper for his shoe...” Max groaned loudly, remembering that day well. Liz stroked his arm and placed a sweet kiss on his cheek. “..there he was standing soak and wet in the middle of our kitchen playing tug-o-war with our dog. But the moment the two of them locked eyes, I knew they were goners...Max..” she turned her sparkling green eyes on him, “..I just want you to know that you’re a great man, with a even greater heart. I think on behalf of Lizzie’s family, we’re honored to call you family..” she wrapped her arms around his shoulders, “...and just to let you know...if you hurt her, we won’t hesitate to kick your ass”

“Here, here” Tad, Kyle and Jim shouted at that. Max’s eyes bucked out in fear, knowing that what she said was true.

“Seriously though Max, Liz...you guys are the epitome of a perfect couple. You always seem to know what the other is going to say or how they feel. You’re two kindred spirits, and I’m happy that you were able to find each other in this lifetime...to Max and Liz, may your souls be able to find each other in many lifetimes to come, I love you guys” she choked out.

“Alright...” Isabel tapped the mic, “...it’s time for Max and Liz to share their first dance as husband and wife” the strums of ‘Our First Dance’ began to play over the loud speakers.

“Love” Max held out his hand, and Liz graciously accepted. The crowd separated as they stepped onto the dance floor, creating a large circle around them. Max wrapped his strong arms around her small waist, pulling her tightly against him. His hand ran up her semi-exposed back. If he would have known that her dress looked like it did in the back, he wouldn’t have made it through the ceremony. It plunged deep down to just above the small of her back, two rhinestone straps crisscrossed over her back several times, before caressing across her shoulders to hold the dress on her tiny frame. His fingers danced over her, causing chills to run up her spine.

“I love you Mrs. Evans” he whispered in her ear, nuzzling his nose in her neck. Liz’s fingers played at his nape, stroking gently as she inhaled his intoxicating scent.

“I love you Mr. Evans” he lifted her in his arms effortlessly, as he swayed them gently to the music. Amber smiled brightly as she watched her parents dance together. Everything was perfect. All to soon the song ended, and it took awhile for the applause’s to register in Max and Liz’s mind, as they stared lovingly into each others eyes. He slowly let her body slid down his, placing her feet back on the ground. Placing a tender kiss over her lips, he turned her and wrapped his arms around her waist as they turned to Jeff standing at the mic.

“It’s customary for the father to dance with his daughter on her wedding day, and I searched high and low for the perfect song for my Babygirl. This song really touched me as I listened to it..” tears began to clog his throat, and he couldn’t finish his speech. Instead, he placed the mic back on the stand, and made his way to the middle of the dance floor. “May I” he asked Max, and Max placed his wife’s hand in her fathers. ‘My Little Girl’ began to play in the background.

“I know I’ve told you this already, but you look beautiful sweetie” he smiled as he twirled them around the dance floor.

“Thank you daddy..” she looked up at him with teary eyes, “...you know you’ll always be my favorite guy” she asked him uncertain if he knew this.

“I think Max’s already taken that spot” he shook his head with a sad smile.

“No daddy, Max may be my husband, and I love him dearly, but you, you will always be my Daddy, and I thank you every day for being there for me, for supporting me through whatever I got into..a girl couldn’t have asked for a better father then you..I love you” Jeff cried tears of joy at her words. He pulled her into a fatherly embrace.

“I love you too Babygirl” he choked out. The moment the song ended, Max was at their side, ready to reclaim his wife. The reception grew in full swing after Max danced with his mom to ‘The Man You’ve Become.’

Max watched Liz dance care free around the floor with Maria and Amber. Several dollar bills, and a few fifties and hundreds, were pinned to her dress. As several guest lined up to dance with the bride.

“So Maxwell you ready” Michael asked him as he, Kyle and Alex strolled up beside him. Max continued to watch the gentle sway of Liz’s hips as she did the Macarana. He drunk down his drink in one gulp, suddenly feeling very hot. “Max!” Michael shouted again, rolling his eyes in annoyance.

“What..yeah, yeah” he stumbled. The four of them made there way out of the hall. Liz danced around happily, her energy at its fullest. Suddenly, the lights dimmed, and the music stopped.

“Can I have everyone’s attention” Alex tapped the mic. Everyone turned to him. Isabel pushed Liz to the front of the crowd.“..as you all know, it’s an Evan’s tradition for the groom to make a complete fool of himself in front of his new wife” all the Evan men in the room groaned at the tradition, remembering their own wedding day tradition. “So without farther ado...Maxwell” Alex quickly replaced the mic, before scrambling in place. Liz looked around as music began to play overhead. Suddenly the lights brighten, and Max stood in the middle of the floor with Alex, Michael and Kyle behind him. He gave her sexy smile, and winked.

“I got sunshine on a cloudy day...” he began singing, his voice trembling slightly with nerves.

“Ohh..ohh” Michael, Alex and Kyle backgrounded.

“When its cold outside, I’ve got the month of May..”

“Ohh...ohh” Liz didn’t know rather to laugh or cry at his attempt at singing. It wasn’t like he had a bad voice, in fact he had a great voice, but she knew he was embarrassed standing up there in front of a crowd of people, and she loved him even more for doing it...for her

“Well, I guess you’ll say..what can make me feel this way.......MY GIRL..MY GIRL..” he pointed at her, causing her to blush from head to toe.

“His Girl”

“Talking bout MY GIRL...MY GIRL.....I got sooo much honey, the bees envy me..” they began to rock from side to side, as Max began to get into it.

“Ohh...ohh” Michael, Kyle and Alex were all a little tipsy, so they had no problem shaking their butts as they sung backup.

“I got the sweetest song then the birds in the tree..” he walked towards her, brushing his fingers down her cheek.

“Ohh...ohh”

“I guess you say, what can make me feel this way...MY GIRL..MY GIRL...” Max thrust the mic in Amber, Tess, Isabel and Maria’s face.

“His Girl” they laughed as they sung.

“Talking bout MY GIRL...MY GIRL” he fell back in place with the others, were they began mimicking the Temptations. “Talking about MY GIIIRRLL!!!” he bellowed out in finish.

“Alright Max” Tess shouted and everyone clapped for him.

“Didn’t know you could carry a tune like that” Maria bumped his hip. Max tugged on his ear in embarrassment, his eyes glued to the floor as everyone commanded him, and slapped him on the back. Finally gaining courage, he lifted his eyes to Liz’s face expecting to see her laughing, but instead, she was crying.

“That was beautiful” she cried as she flew into his arms, her lips attaching to his. Max stumbled back slightly as he caught her in his arms, but he quickly regained his balance, and returned her kiss with just as much passion.

“How much longer do we have to be here” he groaned as he rested his forehead against hers, breathing heavily.

“Just...” she pulled his lips to hers once again, “..a little longer” she promised, moaning against his lips.

“Alright you two, save it for later” Kyle laughed, pulling a protesting Max away from Liz, as Maria and Tess tugged Liz away.

“Wait...what are you doing” Liz whined as she reached out for Max, who was fighting against Alex and Kyle.

“It’s time to cut the cake, and at the rate you two are going, we might never make it” Tess teased. Max and Liz instantly gravitated back to each other once they were standing behind their four tier, lavender and ivory wedding cake. Diane handed Max a cutting set that was sterling silver, with genuine pearl handles. The set had been in their family for generations, a set her great-great-great grandfather had purchased for his blushing bride. Max wrapped Liz in his arms as he helped her guide the knife through the cake. Cameras flashed, as they smiled at each other. Taking a small piece, Max brought it to her full lips. Liz peeked her tongue out, tasting the sweet concoction, before opening her mouth to accept it fully. Max bit back a groan as her tongue danced over his fingers. Taking the plate from his hands, Liz scooped up some of the cake, and brought it up to his lips. Max sent her a devilfish grin, before grabbing her hand, and sucking her fingers into his mouth. He licked and swirled his tongue around, removing all traces of icing on her fingers, all the while keeping his dark filled eyes on her face. Liz shivered feeling his wet tongue reek havoc on her fingers. She had to pull her hand away when he started to lick the valley between her fingers, her face flush with heat. Cake was past around, and everyone rolled with laughter as Amber and Michael got into a small food fight.

“Alright all you single ladies and gents” Isabel grinned as she spoke into the mic. “Its time for the bouquet and garter toss. Now ladies, lets please try and keep this civil” Isabel looked pointedly at her cousin Viola, who was known to throw a few elbows to get her way. Viola feigned hurt. “Anywaays,” Isabel continued.. “..alright now. Liz, the floor is yours” she looked up at the balcony were Liz was standing.

“Are you ladies ready down there” she shouted excitedly. There was hooping and hollering that greeted her in response. Maria bumped hips with Viola, who innocently shoved her with her elbow. “Okay, on the count of three.....one.....two.....three” Liz tossed the bouquet over her head, and heard the loud shrieks of the women as they scrambled across the floor after it.

“I got it” Maria shouted, lifting the bouquet in triumph. She brushed her hair out of her face, and sent a condescending smirk at Viola. Viola huffed, before storming away.

“She better recognize” Maria hi-five Tess, and they bumped hips, as she walked off the floor, securely holding the bouquet in her hands. Alex grabbed a chair, and slide it to the middle of the floor, where Kyle lead Liz over to sit down.

“Alright men, front and center” Isabel ordered. Max stride like a lion towards Liz. Michael motioned to the DJ, and ZZ Tops ‘She’s got Legs’ blared through the speakers. When he was a few feet from her, he dropped to his knees, and crawled panther like towards her.

“Go get her Max” was shouted from the crowd. Liz smirked as she watched him. Max picked up her right leg, stroking her bare foot. His hand slid up, caressing her calf. Liz squirmed slightly, but didn’t let his ministrations teeter her. Max rested her foot high on his thigh, as his hands crept further up her dress, stroking her knee. When he came to the place her garter was suppose to be, he stared up at her in confusion when he didn’t encounter it. It was Liz’s turn to wear the sexy smirk.

“Higher” she whispered so that only he could hear. Max did as instructed, and his hands crept higher. He inhaled sharply when he finally came in contact with it, but that wasn’t the only thing his fingers came in contact with. His eyes flew to hers, as his fingers connected with her naked flesh. Liz bit her bottom lip in order to fight back her moan, as his fingers began to play with her nether lips. Max knew he couldn’t stay under her dress long without looking suspicious, but God she was so wet, and he wanted her so bad. He let his fingers stroke her a second longer, before reluctantly pulling his hands out from under her dress, garter in hand. He was lucky that he had untucked his shirt earlier that evening, or he wouldn’t be able to hide the very painful erection he now sported.

“Alright guys..” Max grinned as he twirled the garter around his index finger. “..you ready” he asked knowingly.

“Hell yeah” someone shouted. Max turned around, and after counting to three, he tossed the garter over his head. The large crowd of men that was once standing in the middle of the floor, parted like the red sea, and Michael was left standing alone as the garter smacked him in the face. He had purposely hid in the middle of the crowd for fear of catching the garter, something Max was well aware of. That was why he had went around the room, and told every man to step aside, this toss was definitely for Michael. Someone had to light a fire under his ass in order for him to finally ask Jim for Maria’s hand in marriage. Max thought that he would give him a little push.

“Very funny guys” he scowled, stuffing the garter in his pocket, before leaving the dance floor.

“Let me talk to you for a moment son” Jim said, coming up beside him, slapping Michael on the back. Michael resisted the urge to groan as Jim lead him out to the patio.

“So Mrs. Evans, was this day everything you dream it would be” Max asked Liz as they danced there last dance, before they were finally able to escape for some much needed alone time.

“It was perfect....thank you Max..for all of this, for making me the happiest woman alive” she smiled, burying her head against his broad chest.

“Anything for you Love” he kissed her crown, enfolding her deeper in his embrace.

“Max” she whispered out, not wanting to break the tranquil moment.

“Um hum.” he sighed, rubbing his hands over her back.

“I love you” she looked up at him, tears swimming in her eyes.

“I love you too...I love you too” he brought his lips over hers as if sealing his words.

~~~~~~~~~~~

“Bye!” everyone shouted as Max and Liz ran through the mist of bubbles that rained down on them as they made their way to the limo.

“Bye mommy, bye daddy” Amber shouted.

“Bye baby” Liz called over her shoulder as Max eagerly pushed her into the limo.

“Bye Tickles” Max managed to say before closing the door. Liz giggled at his hastiness.

“What’s the rush Max” she smiled knowingly. Max didn’t answer, he just pulled her into his lap and kissed her deeply. His tongue caressed every crevice of her mouth longingly. He had been restricted during their reception, not able to give her mouth the proper attention it deserved. But now that he had her alone, he was going to take his time and savior her exquisite taste. Liz moaned deep in her throat as his kiss became full of hunger. He pulled her bottom lip between his teeth, his tongue running smoothly over it. Max hiked up her dress up, and positioned her legs so that she was straddling him. His hands crept up her silky thighs, before cupping her bare bottom, and depositing her over his throbbing member.

“Max” she moaned as she began to grind against him.

“God..” he whispered huskily, “..do you know how bad I want you right now” his mouth attached to her collarbone, where he proceeded to nibble. One of his long fingers was inching dangerously close to her aching core.

“Th-then you can have me” she panted out, letting out a moan of satisfaction when his finger entered her. Max watched in awe as she threw her head back and cried out. She began desperately tugging on the clasp of his pants, while never deterring from her movements above him.

“Max....please” she pleaded. Knowing exactly how she was feeling, Max looked up front were the driver was doing his best to look inconspicious. He fumbled around for the switch to raise the window. During his attempt, Liz had managed to pull his pants and boxers to his knees. Finally he found it, and no sooner had he raised the window, she slammed down on him.

~~~~~~~~~

Max looked over at his wife who was fast asleep beside him. She was curled up in his tux jacket, her small feet tucked securely under her, as her head rested on his shoulder. As soon as the plane had taken off, she had crashed out. He smiled. She looked so beautiful. Her cheeks were still flushed from their earlier activities in the limo, and her hair had been freed from its confine. He couldn’t help himself, and reached out a hand and brushed a few strands off her cheek. She stirred slightly, his name whispering past her lips, before she settled back down. He couldn’t take his eyes off of her. His body was still humming from their earlier liaisons. He could still feel her moist walls wrapped around him, and he groaned, feeling his member stir to life. He needed her. Their quickie in the limo did nothing to curve his sexual hunger, especially since he hadn’t made love to her properly in five days. Looking at his watch, he saw that they still had another hour an a half before they reached the destination. Knowing that there was nothing he could do about his current condition at the moment, he laced his fingers through hers, before flipping off the overhead light and closing his eyes. Figuring he might as well try and catch some sleep, after all, he was definitely going to need his energy for what he had planned for her later.

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

“Max!” Liz yelp in surprise, as she was lifted in his arms. “What are you doing” she asked as he fumbled with the doorknob.

“Carrying you over the threshold” he answered the obvious. Soon he heard the click in the door, and kicked it open with his foot. The attendant behind him flipped on the lights, and Liz gasped.

“Oh my god Max, this is beautiful” as a wedding present to them, one of his clients owned the ‘Lost Mountain Lodge,’ and had reserved the lodge for them for the next two weeks. Max had been there once, during a business meeting, and had instantly fell in love with the place. It was quite and secluded, a perfect spot for relaxation and getaway with his beautiful wife. He felt Liz wiggle in his arms, and he succumbed to her wishes and let her down. The moment her feet touched the ground, she was running around the lodge. Her excited ‘ooh’s and awe’s’ could be heard throughout the lodge. Max took a minute to make arrangements with the attendant, and tip the limo driver, before closing the door, and going in search of his wife.

He found her on the outside deck, leaning against the rail. Her eyes were closed as she leaned her head back. The slight breeze played with the ends of her hair, making them dance a hypnotizing dance. He leaned against the doorframe, just taking in her beauty. The unobstructed moon dance over her heavenly features, making her even more angelic. His eyes traveled low, and were treated with her pointy nipples as they strained against the soft fabric of her dress. His eyebrows came together as he took in her breast. They seemed fuller, rounder. Had it really been that long since he’d seen her? So busy was he taking in her form, he failed to notice she had opened her eyes, and was now watching him watch her.

“So, are you going to stand there all night, or are you going to come and kiss me” she invited huskily. Max shook his head, and brought his eyes to her face. He watched her pink tongue out and run suggestively over her bottom lip, before withdrawing.

“Kiss you.....definitely kiss you” he croaked out. He covered the short distance between them. Standing only centimeters from her, he ran his fingers through her hair, edging her head closer. Her hands bunched in his shirt in anticipation. He didn’t keep her waiting long, as his mouth descended on hers. She sighed heavily against his lips, her head spinning as his tongue demanded entrance. He cupped her face between his hands, as his thumbs caressed her cheeks. Her hands traveled up his back, gripping his shoulders as she tried to keep her balance. Without disturbing their kiss, he picked her up in his strong arms, and lead them back into the lodge. Somehow, he had managed to get them up the stairs and into their suite.

“Wow!” they sighed simultaneously once they finally came up for air. Max gripped her hips tightly in his gasp. He smiled down lovingly at her.

“You taste so good” this time his voice didn’t waver, as his eyes grew dark, and he pulled her firmly against him. He began placing love bites on the underside of her jaw. “I..(nibble)...just..(lick)....want to...(kiss)...taste..” his head dipped low to the valley of her chest, his tongue lavishing her skin, “...all of you” he bit down lightly on her collarbone, feeling her shiver in his arms.

“Oh god Max....yes please” she didn’t know what she was pleading for, but she knew that she needed him in a bad way. She reached for the strap on her dress, only to have her hands ceased by his.

“Let me” he instructed, kissing her exposed shoulder. His hand ran up her arm, grasping the tiny strap between his fingers, he slowly lowered one, then the other. He stepped back, and like a child on Christmas morning, he watched as her beautiful form was revealed to him inch by inch as the dress slid soundlessly to the plush floor. Swallowing the large lump in his throat, Max kneeled down on his knees, and with gentle care, lift one foot then the other, and removed aside her dress. His cheek rubbed against the her smooth thigh, as his hands ran up her calves. Liz wobbled slightly as his caress left electric aftershocks. His lips soon joined his ministration. He kissed the inside of each of her thighs, traveling closer and closer to her treasure. She felt him nudge her legs farther apart, and cried out as his tongue swept across her wet center.

“Maaxx!” she moaned, her fingers digging painfully into his shoulders, but he didn’t feel it. His only mission was to have her sweet honey invade his mouth. He gripped her hips in his hands, helping her maintain balance. He worked proficiently and diligently at his task. He ignore the slight ache in his neck as his tongue licked at her clit, before disappearing between her folds. On and on he lick...suck..probed and nibbled at her. The strong desire to make her cum took over him, and he reached around and slid a finger in to her. She rocked desperately against his face. “Don’t stop...god don’t stop” she cried out. He had no intentions on stopping until she was a withering mess in his arms. Deciding he was tried of playing around, he wanted his reward. He pulled her throbbing bud between his teeth and began to suck vigorously on it, as he drove another digit into her. He hummed slightly, and that little action was all it took, and Liz trembled over the edge.

“OH..MY..GOD!!” she shrieked out, and Max was glad they were the only ones in the area. He continued to assault her pulsating core with his skilled mouth, sending her into another small orgasm.

“Oh god...y-you have to s-stop” she trembled, pushing at his shoulders. She didn’t really want him to stop, but he was sending her into sexual overload, and she could barely keep her footing. Max swiped his tongue over her once more, and Liz couldn’t stand any long. She sunk down to the floor in a trembling mess, and Max held her as he stroked her back.

“Thank you” he whispered in her ear, his fingers finding there way into her hair.

Liz giggled, “I think I should be the one thanking you” she lifted her head, bring her lips to his. She could taste herself on his lips and it flared her sexual desire. She stood up, gasping his hand in hers, and lead him to the king size bed. She gently pushed on his shoulders, and he laid back. She covered his body with her naked one, and felt his strong arms wrap around her waist.

“You’re amazing..you know that” she smiled down at him, brushing his bangs off his forehead.

“Um..why’s that” he mumbled against her neck. She pulled back so she could see his eyes.

“Because you love me” she stated simply. For the hundred time that day, Max felt his heart expand with love. Turning them on their sides, his hand coming to rest on her hip as he stroked his thumb lightly over her.

“You’re the amazing one Liz..you’ve allowed me to have your heart. A heart that is warm and gentle, and full of love....love for me..” he said in awe, “..I never thought I would ever love again, but here I am, married to the most wonderful person in the world” he finished thickly.

“Oh Max” she pulled him in for a kiss, this time taking control. Her tongue wasted no time plunging into his mouth. She pulled his tongue into her mouth, sucking on it vehemently. He allowed her to have complete assess to him. “Too many clothes” she panted out, reaching for the buttons of his shirt. He sat up so that she could remove his shirt and undershirt, his pants and boxers soon following. She tossed them in a pile on the floor.

“I have something for you” she smiled down at him as she straddled his hips, feeling his erection jump against her center.

“Really?” he asked eagerly, bucking his hips a little. If she would just move up a few inches, he could drive deep into her.

“Um hum” she climbed off the bed, and scrambled across the floor. Max sat up on his elbows and watched her in all her naked glory. Reaching into her overnight case, she pulled out what she was looking for, before making her way back over to the bed.

“What are you smiling about” she raised an eyebrow as she watched the goofy grin on his face widen.

“I’m just happy” he smiled.

“Is that right..” she cooed, returning to her position across his hips, and capturing his earlobe between her teeth, “..I bet I can make you even happier” she teased. Max went to wrap his arms around her, but she captured his arms, and lifted them above his head.

“Lay still...no touching” she ordered, and he could only nod his head. Retrieving the small bottle she deposited at the foot of the bed, she flipped the cap open, and applied a generous amount of the substance in her palm. Max watched her with curious eyes. Tossing the bottle on the bed, Liz began to rub her hands together.

“You know...a sensual massage is considered to be the most erotic form of foreplay..” she spoke, her hands traveling over his tight abs, before caressing his pecks. Max couldn’t respond, so he just stared at her in a trances. She took her time, and massaged the oil all over his body, paying extra attention to his pulsating member and hard nipples. She had him turn over, were she repeated her actions on his back, even applying the oil between the crevice of his bottom. By the time she was finished, Max was painfully hard, and begging to be inside her.

“You have the most beautiful body Mr. Evans” she said, ignoring his plea. She kneaded his firm buttocks while she talk to him.

“R-really?” he croaked out, her hands were driving him crazy.

“Um..hum” without warning, she separated his cheeks, and blew on his puckered skin

“Shit Liz...what is that” he breathed heavily when his ass began to tingle with heat.

“You like that” she purred, blowing again, intensifying the heat. On the little excursion to the sex shop, Maria had picked a bottle of ‘Liquid Love.’ It was an edible oil, that you massage into your lover, and when you blew on it, it created heat to spread over the applied areas.

“This will for sure have Max screaming out your name” she had teased.

Max buried his face in the pillow beneath him, letting out a tortured moan as she continued her assault. ‘Did he like it’ he had to admit it was kind of strange having her down there like that, it was different, yet exciting at the same time. He knew he wasn’t funny, because he would never allow anyone down there but her.

Liz blew a trail up his spine, causing the heat to warm his skin, and shoot extreme amounts of pleasure straight to his groin. “Do you Max?” she whispered in his ear. “Do you like the way that feels” she blew on his neck, and felt him shiver beneath her.

“Yes” he moaned out, turning his head so that he could capture her mouth. Liz allowed him to indulge in the kiss for just a moment, before pulling away. She didn’t want to get off track, and his kisses had a tendency to make her forget everything around her.

“Liz!” he pouted when she pulled away.

“Patience Love” she giggled at his agitated frown. “Turn over” she whispered, but with force. He did as he was instructed. Seeing her naked breast only inches from his reach, he lifted his hands to them, only to have them slapped away.

“I said no touching” she scowled. “Am I going to have to restrain you” she warned, her eyebrow raising in challenge. Max knew he didn’t want that. Over the years he had found out that his sweet, shy, smart scientist was a sexy dominatrix behind their bedroom door. She liked to be in control, something he was fine with, as long as he also had his moments of control. He remembered once when she had ordered him not to touch, and he had a moment of weakness and ran his hand over her thighs. She had tied his hands and feet to the bed and straddled him, where she had proceeded to ride him excruciatingly slow as she touched herself and talk dirty to him. He was close to tears, unable to touch her, to grip her hips and slam her down on his shaft. But she refused to let him lose. No, he definitely didn’t want that to happen, not tonight. He shook his head, and laced his fingers beneath his head.

“That’s a good boy” she nibbled at his ear, before sliding cat-like down his body. She peeked out her tongue and ran a trail from behind his ear to the hollow in his shoulder, the oil having a tingling, yet erotic taste in her mouth. She decided she liked it...a lot. She feasted on him as he was her last meal, hearing him curse above her as she blow on his nipples. The combination of her mouth on him, and the heat sensation from the oil had him begging for release.

“What’s the matter Max” she cooed, her tiny hand wrapping around his rock hard member. He growled loudly when she ran her palm over his angry head.

“Liz please” he let out a strangled cry.

“Please what?” she teased, as he bucked his hips against her hand.

“Liz!” he barked out, causing her to laugh at his sudden attitude. He closed his eyes and took in a heavy breath.

“Tell me Max” she liked to hear him tell her want he wanted her to do to him.

“Touch me” he answered throatily.

“I am touching you silly” she squeezed his organ for emphasis. Max gripped the sheets beneath him, shaking his head frantically, knowing exactly what she wanted.

“W-with your mouth...” he replied hoarsely.

“Ooh..” she feigned ignorance. “You mean like this” she leaned over and wrapped her mouth over his large mushroom head, and sucked gentle.

“Yeesss” he moaned. She took him in further, her hands working the little bit she couldn’t reach.

“Oh god..” his hips arched forward as she blow on the tip of his penis, making the oil heat up. “Liz..y-you have to stop” he warned her, trying to pull her up before he lost his control. But she wasn’t having it, and pushed his hands aside. She devoured his manhood, her on bottom aching with renewed desire. Raising up so that only the head was in her mouth. She swirled her tongue around it, sliding it between the small opening. Cupping his precious sac in her hand, she gave it a gentle squeeze, deep throating him. That was all it took, and he exploded into her warm mouth.

Liz took in everything he offered, her ministrations not relenting one iota. She waited until his hips finally relaxed beneath her, before placing a tender kiss over him and sitting up. Her hand wrapped around his still solid member. That was one thing she loved about him. He had the stamina of a horse, and could make her cum two-three times before he was finally spent. Max slowly pried open his eyes, and found her smiling sexily at him.

“C’mere” he whispered, tugging on her hand. She released him, and laid flush against him. he wasted no time and attached his mouth to hers. “Mrs. Evans, if I didn’t know any better, I’d think you were trying to kill me” he joked, stroking his hand up and down her back. She giggled, resting her elbows on either side of his head.

“I love you”

“Ditto....you do know that it’s my turn” he wiggled his eyebrows at her. Before she could respond, he flipped her over onto her stomach. He sat on her legs, not allowing all of his to crush her. He searched around the bed until he found the bottle she had discarded earlier. Finding it at the foot of the bed, he opened the cap, and squeezed some into his hands. Liz closed her eyes as his hands began to run over her skin. Unlike her, he blow on her as he went. She sighed in content. Lower Max traveled, until he reached the small of her back then lower, tracing the tattoo there. A smile graced his lips. Using the little light coming in from the moon, he read the inscription there. In one of the hearts was his name, the other, hers. Inside the ribbon was the words ‘Soulmates Forever.’ He remember her revealing it to him on their one year anniversary. He had been speechless and in awe that she would do that for him. Leaning over, he placed a lingering kiss over it.

“Turn over Love” once she was situated, he repeated her actions, and placed her arms above her head. “Remember, no touching” he winked, gathering some more oil. His large hands started a sensual massage on her neck, traveling over her collarbones, between the valley of her chest, before finally he cupped her soft mounds in his hands. Liz arched her back as he pinched her nipples between his fingers, letting out a small moan. Her nipples were overly sensitive due to her condition, and the slightest brush over them had her crying out for more. He didn’t disappoint her. Leaning over, he blew softly, watching as they constricted even tighter. The heat, actually soothing them. Max latched on to her left breast, twirling and lapping at the nipple.

“Maaxx!” she cried out, pleasure filling her belly. He gave each globe its proper attention, listening to her body as she cried out. Liz rubbed against his thigh resting between her legs, trying to alleviated the burning ache. Lifting his head, Max released the nipple he was worrying, and blew over it. She shuddered violently beneath him. His eyes widened in shock, not expecting her to go over that soon. He held her as she came down from her sexual high, her hips still gyrating against his thigh.

“You okay” he brushed a damp strand from her forehead.

“Max, I need you inside me..” her plea was desperate, full of hunger. Never the one to deny her, he positioned himself between her legs. Sitting back on his heels, he thumbed her clit, making her shake all over. “Max...NOW!” She was so wet, he slid into with ease, the two of them moaning in satisfaction as they joined together.

“Yes Max” she hissed as he stroked in and out of her.

“God you’re so warm..” he moaned against her ear. In and out he drove into her. He ran his hand down her side to her thighs, wrapping her leg around his waist. Liz wrapped her arms under his, and gripped his back. She marveled over how his muscles contracted under each stroke.

“Harder..” she whispered in his ear, and he complied. She met his thrust for thrust, planting her feet on the bed to give her better leverage. Knowing what she was needing, Max sat up, taking her into his lap. Liz wrapped her arms around his neck, as she rode him hard and fast. Max held onto her hips, slamming her up and down on his rod.

“S-so close” she moaned against his lips. He lowered his head to her neck, kissing her softly, before his lips latched onto one of her nipples. His tongue licked and teased as she rode him harder, her clit rubbing frantically in his course hair. He pulled back, blowing on her nipple, before taking it back in his mouth. That was all it took.

“Maaaxxx!!!” she screamed. Her hair whipped him his face as she thrashed around above him. He pulled her to the edge of the bed. Pushing her thighs back, he slammed into her at an alarming rate, her cries edging him on. He knew he wasn’t going to last much longer, especially watching her breast bounce with each thrust he made. Her next moments was his falling. Liz reached her hand between her legs, and began stroking her clit. Her fingers grazing his member as he slid in and out of her.

“Ahhh...” he ground out as he bathed her womb with his seed. Feeling his member pulsating with each spurt of his orgasm, sent Liz into another mind shattering orgasm. They tumbled to the floor in a mess of limp limbs, their hearts trying to return to normal rhythm.

“Wow” Liz giggled.

“I agree...that was...”

“Intense” Liz finished for him.

“More like explosive” he chuckled, capturing her hand in his. “What is it” he asked her, watching her suck in her bottom lip.

“Nothing....are you tired” she asked shyly. Max raised an eyebrow at her. He tickled her side.

“Someone’s extremely horny” he laughed.

“And you’re not” she challenged with a smile, cupping his semi-hard member.

“Touché” he pulled her over him, were she stroked her clit with his head until he was once again ready for her.

“Oh god!” they moaned as he slipped inside her.


another A/N...if you get a chance to check out the link to the Lost Mountain Lodge, it seems like the perfect place to honeymoon. Okay, I'm going to runaway now. I never feel like I do NC-17 justice.

[Lady Scorpio]

Warning, slight NC-17 alert....


Chapter 20

The water pelted down on their naked bodies, her face pressed against the cold tile as his fingers entwined with hers. His hard body pressed tightly against hers as he slammed into her. She felt his lips press over her bare shoulder, his face burying into her neck as he grumbled and moaned. The water had long since turned cold, but they hadn’t noticed. The friction of their bodies was enough to keep them heated.

“Oh god Max..oh god...Max..M-Max” she panted heavily, her fingers gripping his in a deadly hold.

“Umm” was his only response as he pulled out of her, only to invade her center once again. He felt her tremble against him, her legs shaking violently. He hadn’t thought about how uncomfortable this position was for her. He hadn’t been thinking when she had stepped into the shower with him in all her naked glory. He had thought that she had been asleep when he had left her lying there. They had been making love nonstop for hours, and he was for certain the last time had drained her completely. She had, well he thought, dozed off not long after she reached her climax. He had decided to take a shower, since he was sticky from the whip cream. She had gotten quite creative of spots to lick the cream from his body, and he just wanted to freshen up.

“You left me” she had pouted as she stepped in behind him.

“I thought you were sleeping” he had smiled, trailing a wet hand through her hair.

“You know I can’t sleep without you next to me” she purred, nuzzling her face against his wet chest. Her hands began to wander over his backside, as she placed kisses over his chest. Naturally his body responded, and he wondered briefly if he was going to be able to keep up with her unsatisfiable hunger. That thought flew out of his mind as she lowered to her knees and took him into her mouth.

“Damn” he mumbled, bracing his hands against the wall and shower door. All too soon, he was shooting his semen into her awaiting mouth. He had grabbed her and kissed her passionately, before turning her around, bring her back flush against his front. His left hand wrapped around her waist, as his right palmed her breast. His fingers teased her nipples into swollen nubs, while his other hand danced across her flat stomach, slowly drifting lower, until he encounters her pulsating clit. He swiped it briefly, feeling her legs spread farther apart giving him better access, before sliding his fingers between her folds. He groaned against her neck at the feel of her liquids oozing out of her. His thumb returned to her clit, and he began drawing tight circles around it. Her arms wrapped around his neck for balance, as she continued to ride against his hand.

“You are so hot, you know that” he whispered huskily in her ear, capturing her earlobe between his teeth, letting out a low growl, “I love to watch you reach your peak...hear you call my name...”

“Max..” she moaned on key.

“Yeah..just like that” he slid his tongue into her ear, feeling her tremble in his arms. He added another finger into her, and felt her honey gush over his hand. Liz grinded her butt against his erection that was now jumping excitedly against her backside. “I can watch you cum over and over again...watch your face contort in pleasure from my mouth, my fingers, my tongue..” his words were driving her wild as his fingers picked up momentum.

“Let me watch you Liz...let me see you” his tongue swiped across her neck, while twisting her nipple between his fingers, sending a shock right down to her wet core. He pinched her clit and she let out a low howl.

“Maaaxxxx!!” she cried as her orgasm ripped through her.

“That’s it....beautiful” he soothed in her ear.

“Max...please” without a word, he had her pressed against the shower wall, entering her with driving force. Her throatily moan pulled him back to the present. Wrapping a strong hand around her middle, he backed up to the shower seat, and sat down, tossing her legs over his. Liz placed her hands on his knees, bracing herself as she began grinding hard against him. Max cupped her breast, his face pressing up against her drenched back. He closed his eyes in seer pleasure.

“Liz...ahh...oh Liz” he could feel her walls squeezing him, and he knew she was close. He tilted her forward, moaning loudly when he was able to sink a few inches deeper into her walls.

“Max...Max...right there” she moaned as he repeatedly hit her g-spot. Her nails dug in his thighs, sure to leave marks as he rocked his hips up and down. Her back arched in a bow, her head resting his shoulder. She turned his head, demanding access to his mouth, which he obediently opened to her. He slammed her down one last time on his cock, and together they exploded, releasing their cries into each other mouths. They sat there, breathing heavily as the water rained down on them.

“You okay” she asked above him, stroking his face.

“Never been better” he smiled, wrapping his arms around her waist. He was still embedded within her folds, her warmth surrounding his member. “Come on, lets get cleaned up” he suggested, finally noticing that the water had turned cold.

~~~~~~~~~~~

“Max” Liz whispered into the semi-dark. The moon was shining into the room, casting a shimmering light upon their naked bodies. After their very cold shower, Max had slowly dried her off and carried her to bed, where he quickly dried himself off, and settled between her legs, his head resting comfortable on her stomach.

“Hmm” he responded lazily. Liz ran her fingers through his hair, massaging his scalp. Max sighed at the feeling. Liz had been nervous about telling him that she was pregnant. She didn’t really know if he wanted another child. Amber was nine, almost ten, and she was a big girl now. She was able to tend to herself, able to dress herself, bathe herself. Max was finally free from diapers and formulas, and burping rags, did he want to go through that again after all these years.

“Have you ever thought about having more kids” she asked softly? Max traced a finger over her belly, pondering her question.

“I don’t know..” he shrugged slightly, “I never really thought about having another child. I mean I was raising Amber alone, and I didn’t even have time to think about having more kids. But then you came along, and I can definitely picture your belly full with a mini me or you” he smiled at the thought of watching her stomach expand to accommodate his child. “Who knows what the future holds....is this your way of telling me you want to have a baby” he chuckled. She stiffened beneath him, causing him to sit up. He crawled up so that he was lying beside her. He noticed how she bit her bottom lip, and focused anywhere but him. He turned and flipped on the table lamp so he could see her better.

“Liz? D-do you want to have a baby” he asked her thickly.

“No” she answered quickly, causing his face to fall.

“Y-you don’t want to have my baby” he asked sadly, his heart constricting painfully. He had never thought that she wouldn’t want to have a baby...his baby. Seeing the hurt look on his face, Liz quickly sat out to ease his pain. She reaches for his hand, feeling him resist slightly before allowing her to lace her fingers through his.

“Oh Max, that’s not what I’m trying to say....this isn’t how I wanted to do this” she sighed heavily.

“Do what?”

“Max, what I’m trying to say is...” she placed his hand flat against her naked stomach, “I want to have your baby.....I am having your baby” she stroked the hand resting on her stomach, waiting on some kind of reaction from him. He looked confused, unsure of what she was saying, and then, it hit him like a ton of bricks. His eyes widened in shock as he stared at her face, then turning his attention to his hand resting on her belly. He looked back at her, seeing the slight nod of her head to his silent question. Again his eyes travel to her still flat stomach.

“A-are you..” his throat was suddenly clogged with tears, “..are you saying, there’s a mini me..I-in there” he whispered in awe.

“Yes, there’s a mini you in there” she stroked his face tenderly as he turned tear filled eyes to her.

“My baby’s going to have a baby” the hugest smile plastered over his face, and suddenly he was off the bed and dancing around the room singing ‘I’m going to be a daddy.’ Liz sat on her knees and giggled as he proceeded to do the running man and the Cabbage Patch.

“So I assume that you’re happy about this” she smiled, stopping him from his happy dance. Coming to kneel down in front of her, he cupped her face.

“Happy! I’m delirious with happiness” he kissed her soundly to prove it. “Wow Liz..this is amazing...we’re going to have a baby” his hands trailed down, spraying across her stomach.

“Hello in there...it’s daddy” he whispered softly, his face centimeters from her stomach, “..I can’t wait to meet you...we’re going to have so much fun together. I’m going to take you to the park...teach you how to ride a bike...show you how to fly a kite...” he rambled on.

“Slow down Max, the kids no bigger then a grain of rice” Liz joked, brushing his bangs aside.

“I know, but I want him or her to be able to recognize my voice when he or she finally makes it into the world” he smiled, stroking his thumbs over her belly. “I can’t believe we’re having a baby” he spoke again in awe. He climbed back on the bed, and nestled her between his thighs as he rested against the headboard. His hands automatically cradled her stomach protectively as he nuzzled her neck

“I know” she smiled, covering his hands with hers. “I’m still getting over the shock myself.”

“How long have you known” he questioned?

“Three days....remember that stomach virus I couldn’t shake” she continued when she felt him nod against her shoulder, “well I went to the doctor, and she gave me the news.”

“Did she say if everything was okay” he asked, his protectiveness rising?

“Yeah, she said everything was fine so far...and I’m six weeks pregnant” she couldn’t help the grin that covered her face at the knowledge that inside her grew a part of her and Max.

“Your birthday” he stated, mentally counting back. That had been a wild weekend. He had taken her to Vegas, were they spent majority of the time making love and would occasionally emerge from the room to do a little gambling here and there.

“Um hum” she smiled, her own memories of that weekend still fresh.

“Not that I’m complaining or anything, but I thought you were on the pill.”

“I was, but if you remember, we were both quite drunk, and I don’t remember taking one pill that entire weekend” she shrugged. Max only nodded.

“Max” she said to him, after a small silence fell over them.

“Yeah” he picked up a strand of her hair twirling it around his fingers. He wondered briefly if their daughter would have her mother’s hair.

“Do you think Amber will be okay with the news” she asked nervously? She and Amber had just started to bond, and she didn’t know how she would take the news about the baby.

“She’ll be fine” he assured, knowing her worries.

“You think?”

“Of course. She’ll be thrilled” she nodded, hoping he was right.

“Come on” he situated them so that he was spooning her. “You need your rest” Liz yawned, knowing he was right. She had been up since six that morning, and it was now well past two in the next morning. She snuggled into his warmth, as he settled the covers over their naked bodies.

“I love you Max” she whispers, already half asleep.

“I love you too...goodnight Love” he rubbed his hand over her stomach, “Goodnight mini-me” he smiled, hearing Liz giggle beneath him.

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

Max grabbed a washcloth off the rack, and wet it with cold water. He kneeled down beside her. Gathering her hair in one hand, he placed the towel on the back of her neck, as his other hand stroked her back. He had turned over to find her gone, when he heard the retching sounds coming from the bathroom.

“Its okay Love” he cooed as she suffered through another bout of morning sickness. Liz pressed her face against the cold porcelain. She knew that if she moved from that spot, she would lose it again. So she stayed right where she was at, hugging her new best friend.

“I don’t think I can do this for the next nine months” she moaned, feeling her stomach roll once again. Max rubbed the washcloth over her forehead.

“Don’t worry, it won’t last that long” he promised. “feeling better” he asked once she finished. She nodded, her stomach feeling empty now. Max stood her up, flushing the toilet, he waited on her to wash out her mouth, before picking her up and carrying her back into the bedroom.
~~~~~~~~~~~~

“So what are we doing today” Liz smiled as she popped a few grapes in her mouth. Max stroked the arch of her foot that he had been massaging. They were sitting outside on the deck, overlooking the gorgeous pond and rock waterfall. The attendant had arrived an hour ago with their breakfast, and they were enjoying the quietness that the lodge offered. Max sat down his paper, regarding her with a concerned eye.

“I thought we’d go for a nice walk, maybe visit the Lavender Festival. The attendant says they’re a sight to see” he smiled. However, Liz frowned up her face in disgust.

“A walk? Max come on, there’s tons of things to do around her besides watching flowers grow” she gawked, picking up the packet of pamphlets she had found in the lodge. “See, we can go kayaking, biking, horseback riding...or ohh, scuba diving. I always wanted to try that” she rambled on excitedly, already planning their day.

“I don’t think those things are safe for you to do in your condition” he shot down, shaking his head at the thought of something happening to her or the baby. Liz pulled her foot from his lap, placing it firmly on the deck. Max knew he was in trouble from the dangerous glare she was sending him.

“Maxwell Raymond Evans, don’t you dare” she growled.

“What?” he asked innocently.

“What?” she narrowed her eyes at him. “Don’t start treating me like an invalid. I’m pregnant, not disabled” she pouted. Max stood, wrapping her in his arms.

“Liz, I’m not treating you like an invalid. I just don’t want anything to happen to you or the baby” he answered truthfully. Liz looked up at him, seeing the love radiating in his eyes. She cupped his face.

“Max, Love, I love that you’re all protective and everything, but stop worrying, nothing’s going to happen” she smiled, brushing her thumb over his lips.

“I’m sorry,” he rested his forehead against hers, “I just want to keep you safe” he sulked.

“I know, but stop it!” she stated firmly. “This is our honeymoon, and I want to spend it having fun with you doing exciting things, not taking walks.” Max sighed heavily.

“Okay”

For the next two weeks, the two of them spent their time enjoying the many sights of Washington. They went hiking, horseback riding, fly fishing, and against Max’s wishes, scuba diving. Liz had to remind him several times that he was over doing the protectiveness in which he would ease up some, but not much.

“Man I’m going to miss this place” Liz sighed as Max cradled her in his arms. They were spending their last night at the lodge just curled up with each other watching the clear, starry night.

“Me too,” he pulled her tightly against him.

“Do you think we were missed” she smiled?

“Most definitely. I’m pretty sure Maria misses having someone to yelp to, and Michael’s probably tried of listening” he laughed, causing his chest to rumble.

“Are you implying that my friend talks a lot” she giggled?

“Not implying, just stating the fact” he smiled.

“So when do you want to tell everyone about the baby” he asked her.

“I don’t know, but I want to tell Amber first before we let everyone else in on the news” he turned her around to face him.

“Liz, she’s going to be okay with it” no matter how many times he tried to reassure her, she still felt that Amber wasn’t going to be happy about the baby. Liz nodded, trying to take comfort in his words.

“Now, enough talk. I want to spend our last night here making love to you under the stars” he wiggled his eyebrows at her, his fingers already working at the button of her shorts.

“Um...I like that idea” she smiled, tearing his shirt from his body. It wasn’t long before they were both naked, and she was sinking down on his swollen member. They made love until their bodies protested from exhaustion, and they fell asleep, thinking of the world they had to return to the next day.

[Lady Scorpio]

Chapter 21

Max barely had time to untangle himself from his wife, when a bundle of blonde curls slammed into him.

“Daddy, I missed you” Amber cried excitedly as Max twirled her in his arms.

“I missed you too, Tickles” he placed her on the ground, and the moment he did, she slammed hard into Liz, causing Max to wince at the force.

“Hi mom” she smiled up at Liz.

“Hey sweetie, I missed you” Liz brushed aside her bangs, placing a kiss on her forehead.

“Really?”

“Um hum” Amber smiled, wrapping her arms tighter around her waist.

“Maxwell” Michael pulled his friend into a brotherly hug.

“Hey, how is everything at the office in my absences” he asked, clutching Liz’s hand in his?

“Same ole’ same ole’” Michael leaned down and gave Liz a kiss on the cheek. “Hey Beautiful” he smiled.

“Hi Michael. Where’s Maria?”

“Back at the house. She has Tee and Kay while Kyle and Tess are off doing god only knows what” he laughed. “Come on, she’s expecting me to bring you straight home” Liz went to pick up her bag, and Max gave her a scowling look, before taking it from her hand. Michael watched with a raise eyebrow at the silent communication that seemed to be going on between them.

“Yeah come on mom, I want to show you what Aunt Iz and Maria and I did to my room” Amber beamed, already pulling Liz through the mass of people in the airport.

“Please tell me they didn’t go overboard” Max moaned as he and Michael tried to keep up with Liz and Amber’s fast pace.

“Okay, I won’t tell you” Michael smirked at the heavy groan that came from Max.

The drive home was spent with Amber telling her parents all about what she had been up to the last two weeks. Max and Liz just sat back with a smile, listening as she rambled on and on.

“Lizzie!” Maria shouted as soon as they pulled in the drive. No sooner had they stepped out of the car, Liz was engulfed in her friends arms. “Oh my god, I can’t believe you’re finally home....I’ve missed you so much...you don’t know what it’s like to not have your best girl to talk too....I mean Michael’s great and all, but there’s no substitution for you Chica....and let me tell you about your dog...” Liz knew Maria could ramble, but she found it amazing that someone could talk so fast and so long without taking a breath in between.

“Told you” Max whispered in her ear as he walked past her carrying their bags inside the house. She just swatted his butt, and gave Maria her full attention.

“...and Uncle Alex got me a canopy bed so I could be like a princess” Amber beamed at her new room. Max and Liz stood in the now hipper, older bedroom Maria and Isabel had done for Amber. No longer was she sporting Strawberry Shortcake like at her old room. Instead, the room was splashed with vibrant colors. She had a brand-new bed that sat in the far corner. Fuzzy pillows resting on top of it. The window seat was also adorned with star and flower shaped pillows, as a funky style computer desk sat in the opposite corner from the bed. The walls were covered with several odd shaped mirrors, and Max groaned when he spotted her closet, that seemed fuller then the last time he remembered it. At first, he had thought that she wouldn’t take the move from their home to Liz’s, but she had been fine with it, in fact, she couldn’t wait for the room. She liked the fact of being with Liz and Pepper every day.

“Wow..” Max ran a hand through his hair, “This...this is..wow” he didn’t know what to say. Even through it was just a room, Max couldn’t help but feel sad. His little girl was growing up. She was starting to ditch dolls and Easy-Bake ovens, for phones and instant messages. He couldn’t believe she would be ten in two weeks. Soon she would be a teenager, and he didn’t know if he was ready for that.

“It’s great Sweetie” Liz smiled, “I love it.”

“Look mom” Amber rushed over to her dresser, “I got my pictures back from the wedding, and Aunt Ria helped me put them in frames. I was hoping we could put them up together later” she asked hopefully. Liz stared at the pictures she placed in her hand. One was of the two of them, their heads bent together, smiling brightly at the camera. One was of the three of them, huddled together on the dance floor as Max held Amber in his arms, and Liz was tucked securely beside. The last one was of Liz alone. They had just arrived at the ranch, and as everyone prepared for pictures, Liz stood under the weeping willow, just watching everyone. She had a serene smile on her face, as the wind played with the few strands framing her face. Liz hadn’t been aware that Amber had taken the picture.

“Of course baby” a horn sounded outside, and Amber ran to the window.

“That’s Granny, she’s taking me to Rachel’s” she announced, grabbing her riding boots. Despite her fall two years prior, Amber was still riding, and had entered the competition each year, bringing home the trophy every time.

“Hey wait” Max called after her, “..I thought we could spend some time together.”

“I can’t daddy, Rafael’s teaching me a new combo today” she gave him a quick hug before turning and doing the same to Liz. “I love you guys...and missed you so much” with that she was out the door.

“Is it me, or does it seem like she’s gotten older in the last two weeks” he frowned?

“Don’t worry Max, she’ll always be your little girl” she soothed at his sulking mood. Max nodded. “Come on, lets go unpack” she suggested. He turned giving her a once over.

“Why don’t you rest and I’ll unpack. We’ve been up since five” he walked towards her, placing a hand over her stomach.

“Max” she said with a warning.

“Please Liz..for me” he pleaded. Liz couldn’t deny him, especially when he was staring down at her with those big puppy dog eyes.

“Okay” as she thought about, she was a little tired. Maybe a little cat-nap wasn’t such a bad idea.

~~~~~~~~~

“You see anything you like Honey” Diane asked her granddaughter. Amber scanned the invitations, trying to decide which ones she wanted. Standing up straight, she shook her head.

“Not really” she shrugged, maybe she could just make her invitations on the computer. Her uncle Alex had gotten her the new Photoshop software, and she could always add her own personally touch. “We can go if you’re ready.”

“Let me just pick up a few things for dinner tonight, and we can be on our way” the two strolled through the aisle, picking up the various items.

“Can I have these Granny” Amber asked, holding up a bag of Cheetoes?

“Sure Sweetie, just don’t eat them until after you’ve eaten” she smiled. Amber tossed the bag into the cart. Diane turned her attention back to the grocery list in her hand, while Amber busied herself with playing hopscotch with the tiles on the floor. Suddenly, she ran into someone.

“I’m sorry” she rushed out, but when she looked up to the person she was apologizing too, she froze. Lillian stared down at her daughter with equal shock. Quickly recovering, she smiled warmly.

“Don’t worry. It was my fault. I wasn’t watching where I was going” she wanted so much to wrap her arms around her. She hadn’t seen her since that day in the park. Max had called and told her he wasn’t sure Amber was quite ready yet, and she painfully had to accept the fact that her daughter my not ever want to have anything to do with her. But she had to wonder, did she really blame her? They stood in silence, both regarding the other with curiosity.

“So you’re a rider” Lillian finally spoke, gesturing towards her riders uniform? Amber only nodded. “I bet you’re great” she said, trying to relieve some of the tension surrounding them.

“I guess” Amber shrugged. Another silence fell over them.

“Listen Amber...I know you’re birthday’s coming up, and I...I was wondering, if it’s okay with your dad and Liz, if I took you out to dinner..wherever you want to go.....I mean if you wanted..” she didn’t want to seem pushy or anything, but she really wanted a chance so that they could really talk to each other. Amber shifted nervously, unsure of how to respond. She had, had a lot of time to think since she had last encountered her ‘mother.’ She had been angry, hurt, scared, all in one. But now that she has had time to think, she realized that she needed answers, answers that only one person could answer.

“Okay” she finally answered softly.

“Okay?” Lillian asked in disbelief.

“Yes” she stated more confidently.

“Great, I’ll call your dad and set it up. Thank you Amber” the impulse to her hug her becoming overwhelming, and she had to grip the shopping cart handle tightly in her hands.

“Amber, there you are. I thought you were right behind me” Diane sighed in relief. She was so busy hugging Amber, she felled to notice the person standing with her.

“Hello Mrs. Evans” Lillian spoke nervously. Diane stood stiffly, finally looking up.

“Lillian” she addressed through clutched teeth. She wrapped a protective arm around Amber’s shoulder. Not missing the anger coming from a woman she had once consider a mother to her, Lillian cleared her throat.

“I better get this ice cream home before it melts...it was nice seeing you again Amber...Mrs. Evans” she gave one last longing look at her daughter before making her way to the checkout.

“Are you okay Sweetie” Diane tilted her chin so that she could see her face?

Amber nodded. “Can we go now” she asked?

“Sure Honey” Diane watched her granddaughter walk away with slumped shoulders and sad eyes.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Liz looked across the table at Max in concern. He gave her a small smile, before turning to his daughter.

“Amber, are you okay” his mother had told them about their running into Lillian at the store, and Amber had closed herself up in her room the moment she had came in. Amber pulsed in pushing the potatoes in her plate around, and looked up at him. For the first time, she noticed the concerned look on her parents face.

“Yeah, I’m fine” she managed a weak smile.

“Are you sure sweetie” Liz covered her hand with her own, “if something is bothering you, you know you can come talk to us, right?”

“I know..I guess I’m just not that hungry” she shrugged. “Can I be excused” her eyes were pleading with them to just let her go? Her head hurt, and she just wanted to lie down.

“Sure” Max answered reluctantly. As much as he hated seeing her like this, he didn’t know exactly what to do except be there for her when she was ready. No one really knew how she felt. None of their mothers abandon them for ten years, and then suddenly return out of the blue. As soon as the word was out of his mouth, Amber bolted out of the room.

“Max..” Liz’s heart ached to see her in so much pain.

“She’ll be okay” he cooed, pulling her into his lap. “She’ll come to us” he prayed he was right.

~~~~~~~~~~

“So are you excited about the competition tomorrow” Liz asked, grunting slightly when the hook wouldn’t go in. Liz had found a hanging picture mobile, and she thought it would go perfect in Amber’s room.

“Yeah” Amber answered excitedly, her spirits were a lot higher then they were a week ago. As predicted, she had come to them about her encounter with Lillian, and she had told them she accepted her invitation to dinner. She had also told them that she had been scared to tell them, because, in some way, she felt as if she was betraying them.

“Baby, you’re not betraying us” Max had said, “We understand that you have questions, and it’s only natural that you’re curious about your mother.” After their reassurance, Amber felt another weight was lifted off her shoulders.

“I finally got that combo down, and I think Charcoal and I have a good chance of bringing home the trophy” she smiled, handing Liz another hook.

“Like there’s was any doubt” Liz teased. Amber giggled, looking up as she watched Liz work.

“Liz....Amber” Max called through the house.

“Up here daddy” Max climbed the stairs, making his way to his daughters room. The moment he stood in the doorway, he nearly had a heart attack at the sight before him.

“What are you doing!” Max scolded, pulling Liz off the step stool. “Do you know how dangerous it is for you to be standing up there...you could have fell and hurt the b...”

“Max!” Liz shouted, interrupting his rambling. She looked over at Amber, who was watching them closely. They hadn’t gotten the chance to tell her about the baby yet, but Liz figured it was time. Besides, from the way Max was always hovering over her, she was bound to figure something was up. “Max, I’m fine. You can’t keep doing this. I won’t be able to take the next seven months with you hovering over me.”

“But you could have fallen” he sounded like a little boy that was just scolded by his mom for sneaking a cookie before dinner.

“What’s going on” Amber finally asked? She had been noticing the way her daddy stuck close to her mom a lot more then ususal. She had also woken up a few mornings, and Liz was really sick. Max and Liz shared a look, before Liz captured Amber hand in hers.

“Sweetie, your daddy and I need to talk to you about something” she smiled, walking her over to her bed. They sat down, and Max came and sat down on the other side of Amber. Amber waited patiently for them to speak. Suddenly her fears began to grow. What if something was wrong. She remembered her friend Jules mom had been really sick and she had died from something called Cancer, and she didn’t want anything to happen to her mom.

“Are you sick” her eyes looking fearfully between Max and Liz?

“Sick?” Liz asked confusingly.

“Yeah, I hear you in the mornings..you’re always throwing up, and daddy’s always holding your hair back” Max gave Liz a small smile. They hadn’t realized that she had been hearing them in the morning. Seeing the scared look on her face, Liz gave her a gentle smile.

“No sweetie, I’m not sick..exactly.”

“Then what’s wrong..exactly?”

“Well Tickles” Max started, “there’s a reason Liz hasn’t been feeling well in the mornings. It’s something called morning sickness, and it’s something women have when they’re expecting” he answered.

“Expecting what” she asked innocently.

“Expecting a baby sweetie...I’m pregnant, you’re going to have a little sister or brother” Max clutched her hand behind Amber’s back, knowing that she had been worried about this moment every since she found out she was pregnant.

“You’re going to have a baby” Amber finally asked after a span of silence? Liz nodded. Still, holding her breathe, something in the way she said that, made Liz worries increase.

“Amber?” Max too was picking up on the vibes.

She placed a smile on her face. “That’s great...I’m happy for you mo..Liz” she stood, picking up the photo frames. “I’ll just finish hanging these up. Daddy’s right, you shouldn’t be doing this. You could hurt your baby” without casting another look in their direction, she climbed the step ladder, and busied herself. Max watched the sadness that came over Liz, and the way her bottom lip began to tremble. A strangle sob escaped her lips, before she ran out the room. Max was hot on her heels. As soon as she heard their bedroom door close, Amber finally let her tears fall.

[Lady Scorpio]

Specual thanks to Itzstacie for betaing this for me. Also I would like to thank everyone once again for their continued f/b and bumps.

Chapter 22

“So, are you going to tell me why you’re hiding out at my house” Isabel said casually, licking the remaining ice cream from the spoon.

“I’m not hiding” Amber defended weakly, lowering her eyes from the screen.

“Riigghhtt...so you’ve been spending the last two days camped out on my sofa for what exactly” she gave her a sideway glance.

“Sorry, didn’t know I needed an excuse to visit...I’ll go to uncle Mikey’s” Amber snapped, she stood up to leave, only to have her aunt grab her wrist.

“Slow down...and I suggest you take some of that bass out of your voice” Amber mumbled a ‘sorry’ before taking a seat back on the sofa. “Now, no one said you had to have an excuse to visit, but I don’t like being used as your scapegoat from whatever it is that is bothering you at home” Isabel reasoned.

“I’m not using you” she replied meekly, slinking back into the couch cushions.

“Really? You show up at our door near tears, and refuse to tell us what is going on. Your dad and Liz were worried sick about you. Now, what’s going on?”

“Not-”

“Don’t you dare say nothing” she warned. “Is this about Liz and the baby” when Max had called her frantic about Amber being missing, he had let it slip about the baby.

“No” she denied. “I’m going to bed” she started to leave.

“Hold it” Isabel’s sharp voice made her stop in her tracks.

“Auntie please, I don’t want to talk about it” she pleaded.

“Tough. I think you need to talk about it before you make yourself sick” knowing there was no way she could escape, she sat down heavily. “Spill” Isabel waited patiently for her to begin. Amber sighed heavily. Leaning forward, she placed her elbows on her knees and buried her face in her hands.

“What do you want from me” she asked in agony?

“I want you to talk to me Amber, tell me what’s going on in your head” Isabel spoke softly.

“And what if I told you I don’t know what’s going on” she let out in an exasperated
huff.

“Are you upset about the baby?”

“Yes...no...I don’t know...” she threw up her arms in frustration. “It’s not just the baby” she swallowed thickly.

“What else is there” Isabel probed?

Amber shrugged “it’s just everything’s moving too fast....the move...the baby...my mothers return....everything...” she ran a hand through her long blonde hair. “It seems like things are happening right on top of each other. I feel like I’m drowning” she admitted for the first time. Tears gathered in her eyes at the admission.

“Oh sweetie” Isabel gathered her niece in her arms. She stroked her back motherly, as Amber cried into her bosom. “Have you talked to your dad or Liz about how you’re feeling” she asked when her tears subsided some?

“I can’t” she sniffled. “I don’t want them to think I’m unhappy about the wedding, because I’m not. I’m very happy about it. It’s just.....” she closed her mouth when she realized what she was about to say.

“It’s just what” Isabel coaxed her to continue. Just then Alex walked through the door, a pizza box in hand.

“There are my two favorite girls..I brought pizza” he beamed, unaware of what he had interrupted. Amber sighed inwardly, grateful for her uncles timing. She was about to go join him in the kitchen, when her aunt called her name.

“Talk to your dad and Liz...tell them how you feel. I promise, they’ll understand. They’re worried about you, and just want you to talk to them” Amber nodded slowly. “Come on before your uncle eats all the pizza” she laughed, throwing her arms around Amber’s shoulders.

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

Amber waved to her uncle as he drove off. Turning, she slid her key into the lock, she made her way inside. The house was empty, dark. Just what she wanted. She knew her daddy and Liz were at work and she deliberately waited until she knew that would be gone before coming home. She needed the time to think. To think about what her auntie had said about talking to them, letting them know how she feels. Was it really that simple? She trekked into the kitchen. Grabbing herself a juice, she made her way up the stairs. On her way to her room, a noise made her freeze in her tracks. Her ears perked as she listened to the house. The noise sounded again, and she felt her heart pound in fear. She realized the noise was coming from her parent’s room. Slowly, she took a caution step towards the door. Pushing it open, her eyes immediately landed on Pepper, who was lying obediently at the bathroom door. Upon seeing her, Pepper jumped up and ran towards her.

“Hey girl” she whispered, scratching her behind her ears. Pepper only whimpered, before trotting back over to the bathroom. And that was when she heard the noise again.

“Liz?” she frowned, seeing her huddled on the floor in front of the toilet. She quickly rushed over to the sink and wet a towel in cold water as her daddy had done for her many of times. She kneeled down beside Liz, brushing her hair aside, she placed the cool towel on her forehead. Liz mumbled a grateful ‘thank you,’ before another bout of sickness came over her.

“I thought this only happened in the mornings” Amber frowned, once Liz finally sat back against the bathroom wall. Amber handed her a glass of water

“Usually it does sweetie, but apparently the baby doesn’t agree with tuna salad” she chuckled slightly, taking a sip of her water.

“A-are you okay” Amber asked worriedly.

“Yeah, I’m fine” Liz smiled assuredly. Silence fell over them as they sat on the cold bathroom floor.

“I’m going to go to my room” Amber finally said after the silence became too overwhelming.

“Amber wait” Liz pleaded, “can we talk please” Amber teetered from side to side, before nodding. Making their way into the bedroom, Liz sat down on the edge of the bed and waited as Amber took a hesitate seat beside her.

“Amber,” Liz started, placing her hand on her arm, “I know you’re not happy about the baby” she said sadly.

“That’s not true” Amber quickly corrected her.

“It’s not?”

“No..it’s just..” she ran a hand through her hair, sighing heavily.

“Just what” Liz pleaded for her to continue, “you know you can talk to me about anything.” Amber looked up at her, seeing the sincerity in her eyes, the love. She lowered her head, playing with her hands.

“Now that you’re having your own baby..w-where does that leave me? Will you still love me now that you have your own baby to love, you don’t need me” she whispered, tears landing on her trembling hands. Liz’s heart constricted as she realized what was happening. All this time, she thought that Amber was well aware of just how much she loved her. But she should have realized that beneath this little girls laughing smile, was a broken child. One that had never had a mother and had longed for one for so long. It had taken Liz a long time to earn her trust and love, and now she feels like once she finally opened up to her, allowed herself to experience the joys of having a mother, they announce that they’re having a baby. Someone that could possibly take away the only mother she has ever known.

“Amber NO!” Liz stated firmly. She took her face between her hands in made sure that she held her eyes, “Don’t ever say anything like that again...I may not have giving birth to you, or have the same blood running through my veins as you, but you are my daughter no matter what. I would fight through Hell and back for you. This baby, he or she may cause a lot of changes in our lives, but it will never, ever change how I feel about you. I LOVE YOU, nothing will ever change that, nothing....do you understand me..NOTHING!” Liz was crying openly now, trying to make her see that she meant every word.

“She’s right baby” they both turned to see Max standing in the doorway, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. He came and kneeled down in front of them. “This baby...doesn’t change how we feel about you. Our love is strong and plentiful, enough for the both of you” he brushed a fallen tear from both of their cheeks. Liz nodded at his words, unable to speak. “So what do you say Tickles, you think you could love your little brother or sister” he pulled on a strand of her hair, “I think you’ll like having someone to boss around, I know your aunt Izzy loved to push me around” he chuckled, earning him a small laugh from both of his girls. “Seriously Amber, we love you, and always will..okay?” Amber looked between the two of them, seeing their hopeful eyes on her.

“Okay” she answered with a smile.

“C’mere” Max pulled her into his lap as he wrapped his arms around her. “I love you” he mumbled into her blonde locks.

“I love you too daddy” she said, pulling back to look at him.

“What are you still doing up there” Max admonished his wife.

“Yeah mom, what are you doing way up there” Amber held out her hand, and Liz eagerly accepted it. Max wrapped his arms around the both of them.

“I love you mom” Amber smiled as she gave Liz a hug.

“I love you too sweetie.”

“Hey, what about me” Max pouted. Liz rolled her eyes playfully at him, before placing a tender kiss on his lips.

“And I love you too” she smiled. Not wanting to be left out, Pepper jumped on the three of them, barking loudly.

“We love you too girl” they laughed as they wrestled around the floor with her.

“How about some ice cream” Max suggested, once he was able to come up for air?

“I want Strawberry” Amber said.

“Oooh, chocolate...with hot fudge..and a brownie...oh, and Oreo’s and whip cream...do we have any cherries ” Liz said, her mouth watering already. Max raised an eyebrow at her.

“What?” she asked innocently, “I’m hungry” she blushed.

“No kidding” Max teased, kissing her forehead, “I’ll see what I can do” he made his way down stairs to prepare their snack. Liz flopped down on the bed.

“I’m going to be big as a house by the time this baby is born” she whined. Amber crawled up beside her.

“No you won’t” she whispered soothingly, she sat up on her elbow and looked down at her, “you’re going to be beautiful” she smiled.

“Thank you” Liz reached out a hand and brushed aside her bangs. Amber laid down on her back. Feeling Liz’s hand brush up against hers, she laced their fingers together.

“Mom?”

“Yeah”

“I think daddy’s right, I’m going to like having a little sister or brother” Liz smile grew as she fought back her tears. Max soon returned with their ice cream. He even found some cherries for his wife. Together, the three of them laid curled up in their bed. They talked for hours about everything...the wedding, the baby, the move and even Lillian. By evening time, there wasn’t one thing Amber hadn’t discussed with them, their doors of communication was wide open.

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

“Lillian.....Lillian Guerin?” Lillian looked up from reading the nutrition label on the box of cereal and gasped. “That is you..” he pulled her into his arms for a quick hug, before releasing her. “I kept saying to myself, I know her” Lillian tried hard to hide her initial shock behind a smile.

“Jake Patterson” she whispered, never expecting to run into him.

“Man, I haven’t seen you in what...ten years” he spoke in awe.

“Yeah, it’s been a long time” she shifted nervously, turning the box over in her hands.

“You still look as beautiful as you did back then” his words made her blush, and she lowered her head. She had already been a nervous wreck since Max’s phone call that morning. Amber didn’t want to go out to dinner; instead they were going to dine in. She had thought that being in a restaurant would help lessen the tension between them, but now it was going to be just her and Amber, and she was scared. What if she said or did the wrong thing. This was her one chance to explain to her daughter, make her understand that what she did, she did for her.

“Thank you” a silence fell over as they stood in the aisle. Jake looked at his watch and cursed under his breathe.

“Um..look, I have a meeting in fifteen minutes, but I would love to get together with you...maybe coffee or dinner” he blushed, rubbing frantically at the back of his neck.

“I...um...I...” she stumbled, not sure of what to say.

“I’m sorry if I’m being to forward, but I’d really like to see you again....catch up on old times” he gave her a friendly smile. Lillian hesitated, but then he gave her his best boyish smile, and she caved.

“Okay” Jake’s smile grew a hundred times wider.

“Great” he reached into his jacket pocket, and handed her his card. “why don’t you give me a call this evening and we’ll set something up” he smiled.

“I can’t this evening” she frowned.

“Okay, when you’re free then” he wasn’t let her back out now.

“Okay” she agreed, slipping the card into her back pocket.

“Now don’t make me come looking for you Lillian Guerin....I always find my man” he joked, causing her to smile. Then he did something that surprised her. He leaned over and brushed his lips across her cheek. “Bye Lilly” he whispered softly, before walking backwards out the store.

“Bye Jake” she sighed, leaning heavily into the shelves behind her.

~~~~~~~~~~

Lillian took one last look in the mirror, then around the room. She hadn’t known what to make for dinner, and she kicked herself for not even knowing what her own daughters favorite meal was. She decided that they would make pizzas. “You can never go wrong with pizza...right” she thought to herself. There was a knock at the door, making her jump.

“Get a grip Lil” she chimed herself. Taking a deep breath, she nervously walked to the door. Gathering her nerves, she pulled it open.

“Hi” she smiled at her daughter and Max.

“Hey” Max nodded.

“Hi” Amber whispered shyly.

“Come in” she stepped aside for they could pass. Amber kept close to Max.

“You know you don’t have to do this” he whispered so that only she could hear. Her only response was a shaky nod of her head.

“Um..would you guys like something to drink” Lillian offered.

“No thank you” they responded in unison.

“Okay” the three of them stood in silence in the middle of the room.

“Um,” Max looked at his watch, “I guess I’ll be back around eight” Max looked down at his daughter. He could see hesitation in her eyes, but she was determined to stay, determined to get the answers she so desperately sought after. “I love you Tickles” he leaned down, and gave her a kiss on the forehead.

“Thank you Max” Lillian whispered as she walked him to the door. Max nodded, sending one last glance at his daughter before leaving them alone. Lillian turned to see Amber still staying in the same spot Max had left her.

“Do you want to sit down” she motioned towards the small sofa?

“Sure” again the silence returned. There were so many questions between them, neither knew were to start. Deciding a little distraction was needed, Lillian made her way into the kitchenette.

“Are you hungry? I thought that we could make pizza...I didn’t know what you liked, but all kids like pizza right...you do like pizza, don’t you” she asked hopefully?

“Yeah, I like pizza” Amber answered, inching her way closer.

“Good” Lillian smiled in relief. “I got pepperoni..sausage...Canadian bacon...cheese...whatever toppings you want” she beamed at the spread on the counter.

“Any pineapples” Amber looked over all the toppings, not seeing her favorite. Lillian let out a small chuckle.

“You like pineapples too” she asked in surprise.

“Yeah. Daddy always order me my own pizza because I’m the only one that like pineapples” she shrugged.

“Max use to do that to me too. He couldn’t stand when I would order pizza because he would spend majority of the time picking off the pineapples and olives I had place on it” she laughed. Looking in the cabinet, she found a can of pineapples and placed them on the counter. They worked side by side, each creating their own speciality pizza.

“Do you want to watch a movie” Lillian asked, as they waited on the pizza.

“No..” she fidgeted in her seat, “can I ask you something” she asked after several moments of silence fell between them.

“Anything” was her mother’s honest reply. Amber nodded, taking a deep breathe she wrung her hands together in her lap as she thought of what she wanted to say.

“Why didn’t you ever come back for me...why did it take you ten years to return” the question wasn’t filled with anger like the last time, but hurt..desperation. Lillian sat there for a moment, thinking of the best way to explain her absence for the last ten years. In the end, she figured Amber deserved to know the truth, regardless of how dark it was. Maybe it would help her understand just how sick she was back then.

“I wanted to come back to you....I did..” she spoke thickly.

“But you didn’t” Amber whispered dejectedly.

“No, I didn’t,” Lillian looked down shamefully, “but you have to understand Amber. My life back then was complicated...a mess. How could I subject you to that kind of lifestyle” she answered.

“Then why did you even have me...why didn’t you..why didn’t...” the words couldn’t get past the lump in her throat.

“That thought never once crossed my mind. I loved...love you Amber, I just couldn’t take care of you...not in my condition.”

“So you left town”

“Yes, but I didn’t leave right away” she admitted for the first time.

“You didn’t” Amber stared at her in question.

“No. When I left the hospital that day, I went to a friends..” she let out a disgusted snort as she remembered that day.

“Lillian, my favorite customer. I’ve missed you” Greg gave her a smirk, knowing that she wouldn’t stay away long. Lillian shrugged, the affects from the drugs she had taken at the hospital already kicking in.

“Heard you had a kid’ Eve, another closet junkie, nodded upon seeing her. “So where is the little runt” she asked, preparing her veins for the poison she was about to pump into them. Lillian felt the tears bombarded her eyes at the thought of her daughter that she had left behind.

“Who gives a shit” Greg smiled, throwing an arm over her shoulders. “I know what you’re here for” he grinned, waved the small bag of white powder in her face. “Let ole Greg take away all that pain like old times” he led her over to the dingy sofa, were she watched him separate the coke into six lines on a mirror. “You know you wantta” he coaxed, watching her stare at the mirror in his hand. Lillian only stared down at the white substance. The same substance that had caused so much pain, yet taken so much away just the same. She battle internally with herself. Debating if she should take it or not. In the end, a imagine of her daughter, with her chubby cheeks and pink nose, flashed in her head, and she knew she couldn’t.

Tears streamed down her face as she stood. “What am I doing here” she whispered to herself. She looked around the dim room, were several of addicts were laid out on the floor. The room smelled of urine and drugs, a smell she had been accustomed to for so long, had once welcomed. Now, it only made her stomach turn, and bile rise in her throat. She closed her eyes tightly at the sight, knowing that she was no better then the rest of them in the room.

“What’s wrong Doll” Greg’s slurred voice made her snap her eyes open. With one last look around the room, she made out onto the street, dropping to her knees as her sickness overcame her. Tears cascaded down her cheeks, as she laid down against the cold cemented ground. She didn’t know how long she stayed down there, but she eventually pulled herself to her feet. Swaying slightly from the affects of the drugs.

She wandered the streets, her body, which hadn’t fully recovered from going through childbirth only that morning, shook violently as she wrapped her arms around her middle. She wasn’t surprise when her feet lead her to the only place she ever felt safe...loved. Making her way quietly around the back to his room. As predicted, the window was wide open. Max could never stand the night humidity, and would always have his window propped open. With years of experience, she climbed through the window with stealth-like movements. Max tossed in his sleep and she stood close to the window with bated breath. He finally settled back down, and his snores sounded around the room once again. She stared at him for a moment, taking in his handsome face. Movement to her right caught her attention, and she slowly made her way over to the small bassinet in the corner of the room.

Lillian gasped when blue-gray eyes stared back at her. She could only stand there, and take in the sight of her daughter. She reached out a hand, and ran her fingers over her tiny fist, across her chubby cheeks, against her downy cover forehead. Lillian looked over her shoulder at Max. He was still sleeping soundly. Awkwardly, she lifted her daughter in her arms. Amber instantly curled up into her. Tears sprung to her eyes as she took in her newborn scent.

“Hey kiddo” she whispered, “Mommy real screwed up this time..you deserve a mom that’s clean, not a junkie....but I promise..a-and I hope you will understand someday...I’m doing this for you...so one day you could be proud of me...like I’m proud of you” the moonlight dance across her rosy face, “this is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do..but you have to believe me..I love you...with all my heart I love you..and someday I’ll be back..” she placed a longing kiss on her daughters forehead, who had fallen back to sleep to her gentle rocking. Placing her back in her bassinet, she ran a finger down her leg. “I love you” she whispered. her eyes drifted over to Max’s sleeping form. Taking a cautious step, she stood at the foot of his bed, an ache in her heart. “I love you too,” as quietly as she crept in, she made her way out the window. She couldn’t stop the tears from falling even if she wanted to. Wrapping the jacket around her tighter, she walked the deserted street until she was standing if front of an all night convenient store. Inside, she found the stores ATM. She withdrew the last of her checking account that she had swindled away on her drugs, and stuffed the money in her pocket.

“Where’re you going suga” the bus clerk asked, staring at the young girl in front of her, who didn’t look no older then her own seventeen year old daughter.

Pulling out some crumbled bills, Lillian placed them on the counter. “As far as this will take me” she answered. The lady looked at her, noticing her red eyes.

“Are you okay” she asked.

“No.....but I will be” she placed the ticket in her pocket, and went and took a set on one of the hard benches. She looked around the almost deserted bus station. There was a homeless man sleeping on the bench across from her, a couple a few benches over, were huddled up together. Her eyes landed on a young woman, not necessarily the woman, but what she had in her arms. The little boy, who was maybe six months old, smiled at her, waving his hands happily. She looked away, not able to look at him. She felt something wet on her shirt, and she opened her jacket to see the two wet circles on her shirt at her breast, and she began to cry.

“All passengers boarding bus 3547 for Michigan, your bus will be departing in approximately twenty minutes...thank you for choosing Greyhound..” the announcement came over the loud speakers overhead. Lillian pulled herself together, and she made her way behind several other passengers. Taking one last look at her home, the place she had grown up, she climbed the stairs, vowing to herself to return....return to her daughter, return to Max.


“So you’ve been in Michigan this whole time” Amber asked.

“For the first two years, yeah I was in Lansing” she nodded, “I checked myself into a rehab there, and while I was recovering, I met a girl name Mya. She took me under her wings, helped me find a job waiting tables at her uncles diner. I was slowly gaining control back over my life. I took some classes at the local community college there and got my A.A. degree.”

“If you were recovered, how come you didn’t come back...how come you didn’t write or call” Amber asked, turning tearful eye to her.

“I wanted to, I really did, but I still wasn’t in the right place. I didn’t want to pop in and out of your life...you needed stability, something I couldn’t offer you, not then” she replied. The timer went off, indicting their pizzas were done.

“So were did you go from Michigan” Amber asked, as she watched Lillian remove the pizzas from the small oven?

“Not far, I went to Minnesota” she answered, placing the pizzas on the wire racks.

“Is that were you stay” she realized there was a lot of things she didn’t know about Lillian.

“No, I live in London”

“London!” Amber responded in surprise.

“Yeah,” she chuckled at her shocked expression. She placed a couple of slices of pizza on a plate and handed it to her. “I got a degree in Business Management, and I was lucky to get a great job offer to head a new project there” she sat down and they said grace.

“You like it there?”

Lillian shrugged, “it’s okay.”

“A-are you going back” Amber asked, picking at the pizza in front of her? Lillian placed her pizza back in the plate and stared at her daughters lowered head.

“Not at the moment. I’m on personal leave right now.”

“But you will be going back” Amber concluded. A hint of anger lacing her voice.

“Yes,” she answered honestly, “but...I would like for us to get to know each other better before I leave” a smile graced her lips as a thought occurred to her, “maybe you could come stay with me over the summer...I think you would like London” she suggested. Amber didn’t answer, only shrugged her shoulders. They spent the rest on the evening watching movies and talking. Max arrived a few minutes after eight to pick her up.

“Wait” Lillian called after them, as they made their way down the hall. “I brought this for you” she said, handing Amber a neatly wrapped package. “Just in case I don’t see you tomorrow, Happy Birthday Amber” she smiled.

“Thank you.”

“Night Lillian” Max nodded.

“Night Max...Amber” she watched the hall long after they disappeared, a happy smile upon her face.

[Lady Scorpio]

Warning, slight NC-17 moment ahead...


Chapter 23

Liz inhaled sharply, resisting the urge to moan loudly as his large hands trailed over her body. Max cupped her bare breast in his hand, his thumb rubbing over the brown nipple. He watched on in amazement, as it hardened and strained toward him. He gave each breast a gentle squeeze, before his hands traveled farther down her body. Liz’s eyes stayed trained on his movements, occasionally letting out a small gasp when his fingers ran over a sensitive spot. Every morning since she’d announced her pregnancy to him, he would de-robe her and run his hands over her exposed body. He said he wanted to watch every detail of her body as it changed to accommodate their unborn child. He hadn’t meant for the act to be sexual. He was just amazed at the thought that soon her body would go through many changes. It fascinated him what a woman’s body went through in order to prepare it for motherhood. Regardless if his intentions weren’t sexual, his hands drove her crazy. By the time he was done, she would be so worked up, she would be begging him to satisfy the desire in her, and since he had never been able to deny her, they would spend the morning making love, before the calls of reality demanded their attention.

“Morning Mini-me” Max cooed to his unborn child. At four and a half months now, she had developed a small bump. It was barely noticeable, and to any other person there wasn’t any difference in her appearance, but Max knew. He saw the differences, and he couldn’t help it as his male ego swelled with pride. His smooth voice brought her out of her thoughts, and she stared down the length of her body to see him talking to her stomach. The corners of her mouth lifted into a smile. Max looked up when her fingers laced through his hair.

“Morning Love” he gave her his incredible smile. He placed a kiss on her stomach, before crawling up and rested on his side. He turned her toward him, her naked breast pressed against his bare chest and he groaned as their nipples brushed against each other.

“Morning” Liz smiled, welcoming his lips as they covered hers. The kiss soon grew more passionate, and Max lifted her leg, throwing it over his hips. His hand ran over the smooth skin of her now fuller hips, resting on her bottom. Liz could feel the evidence of his arousal digging into her stomach, as it strained against the fabric of his boxers.

“Ummm” Max moaned as he felt her rub against him.

“Take...these...off” she demanded between kisses. Using her foot, she tugged on his boxers and somehow managed to free them from his body without breaking her rhythm. Max rolled over onto his back, and aided her as she lowered herself onto him. She let out a satisfying breath as his member invaded her core. His large hands wrapped around her waist as she rode him. Her hair curtained their faces as she rested her forehead against his. Their noses touched, as their breaths came out in heavy pants as her movements above him grew frantic. Slowly his hands slid up her sides, brushing the swell of her breast, before cupping them in his large hands.


“Maaxx!” she mewled when he pinched her nipples. Max knew how sensitive they were, and he also knew that she loved for him to suck on them. He pulled the right bud into his warm mouth, twirling his tongue around it as it scraped the roof of his mouth. Switching breast, he gave it the same loving as its twin. She was close, he could tell by the increase of her juices that rained down on his hard cock. Gripping her hips tightly, he slammed her down on him as he jolted his hips upward. He felt her body shake above him, as her walls clutched him in a death grip.

“Ooh god Max...Max...Max” she panted as her orgasm ripped through her. Max watched in fascination as she arched her back, her breast thrusting forward, as she slid up and down on him. Seeing the pure bliss on her face and the way her quivering moist wrapped around him, sent Max over the edge with her. Liz’s lax body collapsed over him. Max wrapped protective arms around her, feeling their hearts beating erratically in their chest.

“Definitely a good morning” Liz whispered, placing a small kiss at the side of his neck. Max chuckled, causing a deep rumble in his chest.

“Definitely” he echoed. “What time is your appointment this morning” he asked, his fingers raking through her sweat drenched hair?

Liz snuggled more into him, “Ten thirty” she yawned, feeling sleep calling her once again.
Closing her eyes, she inhaled the tingling scent of sweat and sex. Max looked over at the clock on the night stand. It was barely six thirty.

Kissing her on the forehead he tightened his arms around her. “Why don’t you get some more sleep while I fix breakfast” he suggested. He felt her nodded against his chest, but he could tell she was already asleep. He carefully extracted himself from beneath her. Standing, Max pulled on a pair of sweats and a t-shirt. He looked down at his sleeping wife and smiled.

“I love you” he whispered as he brushed his lips across her forehead. With a pep in his step, Max made his way down to the kitchen.

“Morning daddy” Amber smiled as he walked into the kitchen. She was still in her pj’s and eating a bowl of cereal as she watched Kim Possible.

“Morning” he kissed her on the cheek, and she giggled as his slight stubble tickled her face. “What are you doing up so early? School doesn’t start for another hour and a half” he inquired. He rummaged through the fridge, pulling out eggs, bacon, hash browns and waffles. Now that Liz had entered her second trimester, the morning sickness had passed and she has developed quite an appetite. Searching through the cabinets, he pulled out the skillets he would need. He pulled open a drawer in search of a spatula, reaching deep into the drawer, his hand collided with something. Pulling it out, he frowned. The sound of his daughter’s voice pulled his eyes away from the object in his hand.

“I know, but I want to go over to Sabrina’s before school so she can show me the new computer game she got” she answered, placing her bowl in the sink. “Where’s mom?”

“She’s still asleep. Did you finish your math last night” he raised an eyebrow at her?

“Yes daddy” she rolled her eyes at his turned back.

“I saw that” he warned, causing her eyes to widen. Max smirked when he saw her surprised expression.

“I’m going to get dressed” she said, before making a quick exit out of the room. “Morning mom” he heard her say and a few seconds later, Liz was padding into the kitchen, dressed in one of his large t-shirts. Pepper dancing at her feet.

“What are you doing out of bed? You don’t have to be up this early today.”

“Do you really have to ask” she raised an eyebrow at him?

“Liz you need your rest” he admonished.

“And you know I can’t sleep without you...so why bother. Plus, I’m hungry” she smiled, plopping down at the table.

“Here” he said, setting a glass of milk in front of her. “Drink this, breakfast should be ready shortly” stealing a kiss, he went to making her breakfast as she watched him maneuver around the kitchen.

“Mmm Max, this is delicious” she moaned as she took a bite of her eggs. Max only stared at her with a raised eyebrow. “What” she asked when she caught his stare? He didn’t say anything, but placed something on the table in front of her.

“I found them...and you want to know where I found them” he asked, knowing she already knew. Liz lowered her head guiltily. “Liz, you know you have to take them” he spoke gently.

“Max” she whined.

“No Liz, we’ve discussed this. You have to take your prenatal pills every day, not hide them in the utensil drawer.”

“They weren’t hidden” she defended meekly.

“Really? Then how did they end up all the way in the back of the drawer” he pinned her with a pointed look. Liz huffed, knowing she had been caught.

“Fine. I put them there. But in my defense, the things are huge. They’re freaking horse pills. How do they suspect someone to swallow something the size of a golf ball” she pouted, folding her arms across her chest? Max smirked at his wife, knowing that this whole thing was because she hated taking medicine. She was worse then Amber was when she was little, and he had to chase her around the room to give her cough medicine.

“Nonetheless, you have to take them...for the baby” he coaxed. Liz narrowed her eyes at him.

“Fine” snatching the bottle from the table, she shook one of the mammoth pills into her hand. Staring at the offending pink tablet with disgust. She popped it in her mouth, gagging as she swallowed. Max rolled his eyes at her overacting.

“See, that wasn’t so bad” he chuckled, earning him a death glare.

“Humph” was her only response as she dug into her breakfast.

~~~~~~~~~

“Mrs. Evans” the nurse called. Max and Liz followed her to the back. Before going into the examine room, she handed Liz a sample cup. Liz rolled her eyes and groaned.

“Don’t look so upset. You know it’s procedure” Max whispered against her ear

“Well, yeah...you’re not the one that has to piss in a cup” she handed him her purse, and made her way into the bathroom. A few minutes later, she emerged a sour look on her face.

“What’s wrong” he asked?

“I couldn’t go” she blushed.

“That’s okay sweetie” the nurse said, overhearing their conversation. “Maybe later. Follow me” once again they followed her and she led them into a large examine room.“Put this on...” she handed Liz one of the paper gowns, “everything comes off...open part toward the back” she instructed. She took Liz’s vitals and weight before giving her a friendly smile. “Dr. Smith should be in shortly” Liz nodded, and she left them alone.

“Should I turn around” Max grinned widely as she begins to get undressed. Liz smiled devilish as she teasingly unbuttoned her blouse, feeling his eyes as they stayed trained on her every movement.

“I don’t know Max...should you” she whispered huskily, as she played with the front clasp of her bra. Max felt his member begin to stir to life, and he cursed under his breath as she popped the clasp open, revealing her soft mounds.

“Liz” he growled. “Damn” he cursed again, turning toward the wall to let her finish getting undress, his member hardening painfully. He knew that they couldn’t do anything, especially when the doctor could walk in any minute. He could hear Liz small laughter behind him. She was such a tease.

“You can turn around now” when he didn’t turn around she called to him.

“Give me a minute” he answered tightly. Hearing the strain in his voice, she laughed. “It’s not funny” he threw over his shoulder. She continued to laugh at him, when a knock sounded at the door.

“Come in” Liz instructed. Dr. Smith walked in with a brilliant smile.

“Good morning Liz” she smiled, shaking the younger girls hand.

“Good morning Dr. Smith...Dr. Smith, this is my husband Max” checking to make sure that he was presentable, Max turned and shook the doctors proffered hand.

“Nice to meet you” he replied.

“So, lets get things on a roll shall we” she smiled. She indicated for Liz to lie back and Max took his position at her side. Dr. Smith went about with the normal checkup, making small talk to help Liz relax.

“Would you like to hear your baby’s heartbeat” she asked the handsome couple? Max and Liz nodded eagerly. Clicking on, what looked like a small tape recorder, Dr. Smith ran the scope over Liz’s belly, searching for the best spot. Suddenly the room was filled with a small whooshing sound, and Liz gasped.

“I-is that my baby” she whispered in awe? Tears gathered in her eyes at the first sound of her baby’s heartbeat.

“It sure is. Nice, strong heartbeat this one has” Dr. Smith nodded in approval. Liz felt a hand on her shoulder, and she turned to see Max’s equally tearful eyes staring back at her.

“Do you hear that Max, that’s our baby” she whispered thickly?

“It’s the most beautiful sound I’ve ever heard” he replied, kissing her forehead as he stroked her cheek. “Thank you.” The two of them quickly got wrapped up in each other, and Dr. Smith hated to tear them apart. Clearing her throat, they pulled apart, turning their tear stained faces to her.

“Do you guys think you’re up to taking a look at your baby” if they were this emotional over hearing their baby’s heartbeat, she didn’t know what to expect from them at seeing the ultrasound?

“Yes” they answered in excited unison.

“Alright then, let’s have a look at your baby” she said, setting up the ultrasound machine. Flipping a few switches, the machine came alive. “This might be cold” she warned as she squirted the cool gel onto her stomach. Liz flinched slightly, but relaxed. “Let’s see if we can get him or her to flash us a big smile” she smiles. She placed the wand onto Liz’s stomach, and their eyes were glued to the screen, as a golden image popped on screen.

“Oh my god” Max exclaimed, watching the screen. There on screen, was the tiny body of his son or daughter. Dr. Smith had invested in one of the new 4D ultrasound machines, so they weren’t looking at the old black and white 2D image, where you had to try and guess what everything was. No, the new 4D version was a lot more advance, and it was like looking at live television in the womb. You could actually see every detail. Max felt Liz’s hand tighten around his, and he gave her a gentle squeeze back. Liz was too emotional to speak as she took in the tiny imagine on screen...their baby. She took in the tiny feet, and small legs and extremely large head. Dr. Smith ran the wand back and forwards, making notes and checking to make sure everything was okay.

“Everything seems to be progressing lovely Liz. Looks like that February due date is accurate” She shook her stomach a little, making sure she didn’t miss anything. “Would you look at that, she’s waving at you” Dr. Smith laughed as the small fetus jolted her hand back and forward.

“She?” Liz swallowed thickly. Max’s eyes snapped to the doctors.

“It’s a girl?” he asked excitedly?

“I’m sorry. I’m only assuming” she answered. “Would you like to know the sex of your baby?” Max and Liz stared at each other and communicated silently with their eyes, before turning to the doctor.


XOXOXOXO

[Lady Scorpio]

Chapter 24

Maria watched Michael as he took another sip of his drink. His fingers were drumming frantically against the table. He had been doing it ever since they sat down for dinner, and frankly, it was driving her insane.

“Michael” she said annoyed. She placed her hand over his, ceasing the irritating tapping.

“Sorry” he mumbled, before taking another deep drink of his wine.

“Are you okay...you seem, tense” she asked in concern? Michael fidgeted in his seat, running a finger beneath his collar. It was suddenly becoming very hot.

“I-I’m fine” he croaked out. Maria looked at him skeptically as he avoided making eye contact with her, and nearly jumped out of his skin when the waitress returned asking if they needed anything else.

“You want to get out of here” he asked suddenly?

“But we haven’t even had dessert yet” missing dessert was a major issue for Maria. She never missed dessert.

“I’ll take you to JoAnn’s” as expected, her face lit up and a hungry look played in her eyes.

“Then why the hell are we still sitting here...” she asked in disbelief, “Check please” she motioned toward the waitress. Michael laughed at her actions. Accepting the check from the waitress, he stood and assisted Maria out of her seat. Michael paid and left a nice tip for their waitress’s especial job.

Walking side by side, Michael couldn’t help the slight smile that stayed on his face as Maria bounced happily beside him, naming off what she wanted from JoAnn’s. JoAnn’s was a small bakery that served the best sweet potato pie in the whole south. Michael had taken Maria there once when they first started dating, and she had instantly fallen in love with the sweet concoction. Not long afterwards, they arrived to their destination.

“Micky” JoAnn beamed as she saw him enter the bakery. She had watched him, Max, Isabel and Lillian grow from the busy little kids that use to come into her bakery with no money and work just for a piece of sweet potato pie, to the adults they are today. Walking around the counter, she pulled him into a smothering hug. “It’s so good to see you.”

“You too,” Michael replied. She pulled back and smiled, noticing Maria for the first time.

“Maria how are you...keeping him in line I hope” she beamed as she embraces the small girl?

“I’m trying” they giggled, and Michael rolled his eyes.

“What can I get you two” as soon as the question was out of her mouth, Maria was standing religiously at the display case, pointing and rambling off what she wanted.

Michael stared on in amazement as he watched his petite girlfriend woof down her fourth piece of pie. That was one of the things he loved about her. Ever since he met her, she wasn’t afraid to eat around him like some girls were. On their first date he had reservations at a fancy restaurant, but she had taken one look at the place, and insisted they went somewhere less extravagant. So he had taken her to Reilly’s a burger joint, where she proceeded to scarf down the mega bacon dog burger, a large basket of fries and a huge chocolate shake. He had instantly fallen in love.

“Where does it all go” he chuckled?

“What...I have a high metabolism” she shrugged, taking the last bite of her pie. “God, that hit the spot” she moaned, flopping back against the couch. Michael went about clearing their saucers, and refilling their glasses.

“Have you talked to Max today” Maria asked, flipping through the t.v. channels? Finally settling on E.R. she tossed the remote on the coffee table and settled back. Michael came in a few seconds later carrying their glasses of wine.

“Yeah, he came in the office this afternoon going on and on about him and Liz seeing the baby for the first time. I swear the guy is walking on cloud nine right now” he smiled for his friends happiness.

“I know. Liz called me too. She’s so excited...I’m happy for them” Michael pulled her against his side as he fell into a silence. On the screen, they watched as Dr. Carter cut into some poor patient’s chest.

“Do you want that” he suddenly asked?

Maria frowned, staring up at him. “Why would I want someone to cut into my chest” she asked scrunching up her face?

“What” Michael asked clueless? Then he realized she thought he was talking about the show. Picking up the remote, he switches it off and turned toward her. “I wasn’t talking about that Maria...I was talking about what Max and Liz have. You know the marriage...kids...happiness” he asked shyly.

“Michael, I’m already happy...and I guess yeah, one of these days I would like to get married...have kids...what’s this about Michael...why have you been acting so nervous all evening” she pondered, placing a hand on his forearm. Michael sighed heavily, standing abruptly. Maria watched as he paced the floor in front of her.

“I can’t promise you that I won’t be an ass most of the time...and I may forget special days like our first kiss or the first time we said I love you to each other...” he began to ramble, a completely un-Michael thing, “I can’t promise you that everything will be all roses and sunshine...but I can promise you that if you were my wife, that I will do my best to make you happy...to always show you how much I love you...give you my heart...that’s the best I can do Maria...it may not be much, but it’s all I have to offer...my love” he was now kneeling down in front of her, his hands gripping hers tightly.

Maria stared down at him in shock. At first she had been confused about what he was rambling on about, but then everything started to click. His nervousness...his uncharacteristic rambling...questions about happiness. ‘Oh my god!’ her mind shouted as what he was doing finally penetrated.

“What do you say Maria...want to be my wife” he smiled that sexy smile of his? He reached into his pocket and pulled out a shiny diamond ring. By now Maria was openly crying. Sure his proposal wasn’t something that would go in the books of most romantic proposals, but that was Michael for you. He was romantic in his own way. Sometimes she would awake to find him staring at her with loving eyes or he would rub her aching body after a long day of dealing with rowdy second graders. Words weren’t his specialty. She knew that from the very beginning.

“Yes” she finally managed through her tears. “Yes Michael, I want to be your wife” Michael crushed her to him, and kissed her senseless. With a shaky hand, he slid the ring on her finger.

“I love you” he choked out.

“I love you, you big teddy bear...now take me” Michael needed no further invitation. He swooped her in his arms. They laughed childishly as he carried her up the stairs to their room.

~~~~~~~~

Liz hummed lightly as she stood at the counter, whisking the batter, a brilliant smile gracing her face. Max stood not far away, the same goofy smile etching his face. Every so often he would steal a kiss or whisper something in her ear, causing her to giggle like a school girl.

“Max, could you reach me the milk please?” Max grabbed the milk from the fridge.

“There you go Love” he wrapped his arms around her waist, resting his entwined hands over her small bump. Placing a kiss on her tan shoulder, his hand traveled under the hem of her shirt, stroking the underside her breast.
“Come upstairs with me” he whispered huskily against her ear. Liz felt his hardness rubbing against her backside.

“Max” she moaned, feeling his hands grip her hips as he rocked against her. “I-I have to finish the cake” she replied weakly.

“It can wait” Liz slumped against him when his hand slid under her skirt and cupped her heat. His fingers danced over the edges of her panties, feeling the wetness that had soaked through.
Turning her abruptly, Max hungrily attached his lips over hers, the spoon she was clutching tumbled noisily. He sighed contentedly when she eagerly accepted his tongue. Max lifted her onto one of the stools, hiking her skirt up in the process. Her panties were ripped from her form, and she cried out when his long digits invaded her.

“Max...p-please” she begged, fumbling with the buckle of his belt. Max grind his hips against her hands as she struggled with his pants; he gripped the counter behind her tightly as she finally released his member. She was running her soft hand over his pulsating head, causing a gurgling sound to elicit from his throat.

“I need to be inside you” Liz opened wide for his invasion. He had only eased the tip of his shaft inside her warmth, when the front door slammed shut.

“I’m home” Amber shouted.

“Shit!” Max scrambled with his pants as Liz pushed him roughly away from her. He managed to right himself into his pants and scoop her underwear off the floor, stuffing them in his pocket as Amber appeared in the doorway exhausted from a long day at school.

“Hey” she smiled, unaware of what she had interrupted. Max watched in amazement as Liz went about carrying on a conversation with her with a calm, straight face, while he was still trying to calm his body and get rid of the huge dent in his pants.

“Are you okay daddy” she finally asked noticing his red cheeks and sweaty forehead? Liz gave her husband a knowing smirk, waiting eagerly for his answer.

“Um...yeah...” Max scratched at the back of his neck, “It’s kinda hot in here...I think I’ll take a shower before dinner” he shot out of the room as quick as lighting with Liz chuckling secretly after him.

“Okay...what’s going on” Amber asked, noticing the secret smile between her parents transferring across the dinner table? Max stood, clearing the table as Liz and Amber made their way into the living room. Max took a seat next to Amber where she and Liz had situated.

“I went to the doctor today, and we got to see the baby today” Liz beamed.

“Really?”

“Yeah, Dr. Smith made a video for us...would you like to take a look” Max asked. After their talk, they had promised their selves that she would never feel as if they were putting more focus on the baby then her. They wanted her to be an active part of the pregnancy so that she wouldn’t feel left out.

“Yes” Amber answered excitedly. Max popped the tape in VCR, and pushed play.

“Amber...met your little brother” Max beamed proudly. Liz laced her fingers through his and gave them a gentle squeeze. When Dr. Smith had informed them that they were having a boy, she had watched the expression on his face. It was a mixture of awe and shock. She knew that he had wanted a boy. Even though he had told her over and over that he didn’t care what the baby was, she knew secretly that he was hoping for a boy.

“Wow...that’s my brother” Amber watched the screen in awe. They spent the rest of the evening talking and gaining up on Max in Uno.

~~~~~~~~

One week later

“You know, I was starting to wonder if you were ever going to call me” Jake smiled, brushing his thumb over the backside of her hand. “Imagine my surprise when you called me a month ago.” Lillian smiled, blushing under his intense stare. It was true. She had debated long and hard with herself about calling him. She felt that between trying to make things right with Amber and her family she already had enough on her plate. She had actually forgot his card in her pocket, and only found it a week later when she was doing laundry and happen to come across it. Again she had debated for three days before finally giving in.

They had been on three ‘dates’ since then. Nothing major, just coffee. They had however talked on the phone practically every night for the last month. His schedule was very hectic at the moment, and today was the first time that he had been able to get away for the afternoon. They were having a nice quiet lunch getting to know each other, catching up on what has been happening in their lives. Well he was doing all the talking, Lillian was hesitant to speak upon her past with the fear of being judged. Right now she was happy to escape that, that was her life.

“Well, I didn’t have much choice, with the threat of being hunted down and all” she smiled. A deep laugh bubbled from Jake. Lillian couldn’t help as she joined in, his laughter was contagious.

“So tell me, you like living in London” he inquired. He knew that she lived in London and was here on personal business, but that was the extent of the information she had divulged.

“It’s okay” she admitted, “I mean the scenery is lovely, but after years of living there it can get sort of old” she shrugged.

“So...is there a boyfriend waiting for your return” he asked?

Lillian stared at him before lifting her glass. “Um...no. No boyfriend” she answered.

“That’s good to know” he replied casually. “Hey, whatever happened to that guy you use to hang with back in high school. What was his name...Mark...Matt...”

“Max.”

“Yeah Max...whatever happened between you two? I use to think the two of you were joined at the hip” he joked. However she didn’t laugh, and he sobered completely. “I’m sorry, you don’t have to answer that. My mom says I ask to many questions, sometimes not thinking before I speak” he admitted shyly. Lillian smiled at his boyish expression.

“It’s okay. Things between Max and I are...complicated right now” she shrugged.

“You don’t have to say anymore” he retorted. “How bout some dessert? I know a great vendor up the street that sells the best raisin pretzels around” he wiggled his eyebrows.

“Okay” Jake placed enough money on the table to cover their bill and leave a nice tip.

“See...didn’t I tell you” he bumped her shoulder as they walked through the park.

“Yeah, and you were right...this is delicious” she took another bite of her pretzel. They walked together down the small street. It was Saturday, so it was extremely busy. Vendors were out trying to make a living as shoppers spent their hard-earned money.

“You’re awfully quiet. I hope I’m not boring you” he teased.

“No...I was just thinking” she answered, tossing the remains of her pretzel in the trash.

“Oh yeah?”

“When do you go back to New York” she inquired? Jake was a big time corporate lawyer in New York. He was back in Atlanta to settle a case for a huge company there who had a sister company in Ga.

“I don’t know...but it looks like we may settle out of court on this one. Lord knows I’ve seen enough of these people” he groaned thinking about the impossible clients he was sent to defend. Lillian only gave a small smile. “Although I can’t really complain. I mean if I hadn’t taken the case, I would have never ran into you...I say it’s worth the trouble” this time his words made her blush, and she wrapped her arms around her waist. The autumn air was nipping at them, and Jake shrugged out of his overcoat and wrapped it around her shoulders.
“why do you ask? Are you ready for me to leave” he poked her in the side, causing her to giggle.

“No...I was just wondering that’s all.”

“As long as you’re not trying to get rid of me” he grinned. They fell into a comfortable stride, when she suddenly froze in her spot.

“Hey, are you okay...what’s wrong” Jake had kept walking until he realized that she had stopped.

“Hey” Max stood a few feet in front of them.

“Um...hi Max” as soon as his name left her mouth, Jake took a closer step to Lillian, placing a possessive hand on the small of her back.

“Lillian” Max greeted turning to the guy next to her.

“Max, this is Jake Patterson...you remember Jake, he went to high school with us” she shifted nervously. Max made a show of pretending to remember.

“Right, Jake. So how’s it going” he replied with a firm handshake.

“Good, good” the three stood in awkward silence.

“Daddy, look what mom got for the ba-,” Amber skidded to a stop when she saw Lillian standing there. Liz was not far behind.

“Jake, this is my wife Liz and our daughter Amber...Amber, Liz this is Jake” he introduced.

“Nice to meet you” they replied together.

“Like wise” Jake being the lawyer he was, took in the three people standing with him, the way the air seemed to crackle with tension. But something about the little girl struck something inside him. Brushing it aside, he cleared his throat.

“Well it was great seeing you again Max...and it was nice meeting you Liz...Amber. But I must get Lil back before my meeting this evening” they said their good byes. Taking one last look at Amber, Jake laced his fingers through Lillian’s and led her away.

“I thought you said you were free today” she probed after a few moments of silence.

“I am. But you looked like you needed to get away back there...so...” he shrugged, squeezing her hand that was still encased in his. Lillian only nodded slightly to his observation. Jake noticed the wetness in her eyes. Looking around, he spotted a bench not far from them. Pulling her over to it, he sat down, depositing her in the spot beside him. His hand ran up and down her arm comfortingly as she laid her head on his shoulder. “You know if you want to talk about it...I’m here” he offered.

“Thank you” she smiled weakly. Neither said a word as they sat watching the leaves of the tree fall in a colorful blanket across the ground.

“Amber’s my daughter” she finally admitted, watching his face for an reaction.

“Your daughter huh? I didn’t know you guys got married” he retorted.

“We didn’t. Remember when I said things between Max and I were complicated...” Jake nodded, “Well most of it was my fault and the decisions I made when Amber was little” she finally revealed, a mask of guilt covering her face

“What could you have possibly done that was so bad” he pondered?

“Trust me, it’s a long story.”

“Whenever you’re ready to tell me...I’ll listen” Jake didn’t like to see her in so much pain. Although he wouldn’t voice it with the fear of scaring her, he was falling for her...hard. “So, how old is she” he asked, hoping to lighten the mood.

“She just turned ten a month ago” she beamed proudly. However in her proud moment, she failed to notice how pale and stiff he grew beside her.

[Lady Scorpio]

Chapter 25

Liz padded softly down the hall. She pushed opened the door to Amber’s room, finding her fast asleep with Pepper curled up at the foot of her bed. Closing the door softly, she continued on her journey in search of her husband. She had turned over to find his side of the bed empty. She had glanced at the clock to notice it was a little after two. They had not long gone to bed a few hours earlier after an intense section of love making. Curious as to where he could be, she had climbed out of bed in search of him. Carefully making her way down the stairs, she saw the faint glow coming from underneath on of the spare bedrooms. Creeping the door open, she found him sitting on the floor, a look of concentration on his face as he scribbled something down. Liz walked over to him, lacing her fingers through his hair.

“What are you doing up...you’re suppose to be asleep” Max scolded playfully when he felt her fingers massage his scalp?

“Looking for you” setting his sketchbook aside, he pulled her down into his lap. He framed her face leaning in to sample her soft lips.

“Mmm” she purred once he pulled back. Max laced his fingers through her hair as he rested his forehead against hers.

“You are so beautiful” he whispered.

Liz let out a small snort. “Will you still think so when I’m all fat and can’t see my feet” she laughed?

“Yes” he admitted honestly. Liz sobered at the sincerity in his voice and stared deep into his eyes. His hand trailed down and cradled her expanding belly. “I think you are lovely...the way your skin glows...the extra softness of your hair...this pregnancy agrees with you Love...and I thank God every day for blessing us with such a wonderful gift” he kissed her gently, his free hand brushing away the tears that had trailed down her face. “And don’t worry...when you’re too big to see your feet, I’ll be your eyes...making sure your shoes match” he smiled causing her to giggle.

“I love you” she mumbled against his lips.

“And I love you” Liz felt a small jolt in her stomach and looked down. “I think someone is feeling left out” she laughed. She looked at Max to see the goofiest grin on his face. She remembered the first time they had ever felt him kick. The three of them had been watching a movie when suddenly she felt something flutter in her stomach. At first she ignored it, not really paying too much attention to it. Then it happened again, but this time it wasn’t some small flutter, but a sharp jab.

“Whoa” she had exclaimed, rising from her position in his lap.

“What’s wrong” Max asked worriedly? She didn’t answer, just waited. She didn’t have to wait long before she felt him move again. Max watched as a huge smile plastered on her face.

“He just kicked” she announced with an awestruck whisper.

“Really?” Both Amber and Max asked as they sat up.

“Here,” she reached for their hands and placed them on the underside of her belly.

“Hey” Amber giggled as she felt her brother kick against her hand.

“He’s got quite a punch there” Max said proudly.

“You don’t have to tell me” Liz laughed.

Max’s voice brought her back to the present. “Hey little guy” he beamed. He was rewarded with another hard kick. Her heart swelled as she listened to him talk to the baby.

“What were you doing when I came in” she inquired looking over at his sketchbook? Max shifted her to sit between his legs.

“Here” he said handing it to her.

“Oh Max” she breathed out seeing the beautifully sketch crib he had designed.

“You like it” he kissed her neck, rubbing his nose into the softness of her hair?

“It’s beautiful” she whispered, trailing her fingers over the picture.

“I was going to go to the lumber store tomorrow and pick up some supplies so I can get it started” he caressed her stomach, “I was thinking, I really don’t want him to be down here by himself...”

“And we can’t ask Amber to move down here. She might think we’re pushing her out for the baby. What are we going to do” she asked worrying her bottom lip between her teeth? She had been thinking the same thing for the last couple of days, and she hadn’t been able to come up with a doable solution.

“Turn the page” he instructed. Liz turned the page to find a bunch of lines and drawings she didn’t understand.

“What’s this?”

“Those are the floor plans for the nursery. You see this...” he pointed to something on the paper, “that’s our closet...and I was thinking that if we expand this wall...knocked down this wall and put in a window that we can make it into a nursery. I mean the closet is huge enough for all the baby’s things plus room for movement. What do you think?”

“Wow. You’ve been busy. Do you really think it’s possible?” she inquired, liking the sound of not having to have the baby so far from them.

“Of course, I’ll get Michael to help, and we should have it done by the time Mini-me arrives” his arms tightened around her as the excitement of fixing up his sons room once again returned.

Liz landed her hand over his that was cradling her stomach. “You hear that little guy. You are so lucky to have a daddy who’s great with his hands” she spoke softly, laughing when he kicked once again.

“You think I’m good with my hands huh?” he whispered huskily against her ear as his hands crept higher, cupping her breast.

“Mmm humm” she moaned leaning her head back as she reeling the sensation of his fingers rolling her nipples into tight little buds.

“Tell me Liz...do you like when my hands caress your breast” he sucked her earlobe between his lips running his tongue seductively over it.

“Yes” she purred, arching her back trying to get closer to his hands.

“Tell me Love...do you like when my hands do this” his hands cupped her breast, massaging them sensually.

“Y-yes” she croaked out.

“Mmm” was his only reply as he tested the weight of her full breast in his hands.

“Max” she crooned, needing him to touch her in other places.

“What about when my hands do this” he attached his mouth to her neck suckling gently. His hands trailed down her sides, over her shapely hips, where they began to rub slow circles against her thighs. Liz felt him nudge her thighs slightly and she opened up for him. His hands glided up and down her inner thigh, coming dangerously close to her aching center before shifting down once again.

“Don’t tease” she half begged half warned. Max chuckled softly behind her.

“Tell me Love, what do you want me to do with my hands” Max was having a hard time keeping up his little game. Her scent was potent and driving him insane. To make matters worse, every time she wiggled, her bottom would rub up against his swollen rod, creating a delicious friction. His fingers brushed against her soaked panties, and he was for sure he’d spill his seed in his shorts.

Liz panted heavily in anticipation. His hands were driving her wild and he hadn’t even touched her where she ached the most. She dug her fingers into his thighs as she twisted and squirmed as she felt the blood rush to her core, her pleasure button pulsating with desire.

“Touch me Max...I-I want your hands to touch me” her sultry cry had him ripping her panties from her form, and burying two of his talented fingers invaded her core.

“Oh god” he groaned. She was so slick that his fingers kept slipping out of her. Liz grinded down on his hand, desperate to relieve that burning ache inside her. His free hand separated her nether lips, pulling back the hood that protected her hard clit. The pad of his index finger traced tight circles over the throbbing bundle of nerves as he buried his head in her hair.

“Max...Max...Max” she chanted as her walls gripped his fingers tightly. Her eyes rolled to the back of her head as she shattered with her orgasm. “Aaaahhh” she shuttered, wrapping her hand around his as he continued to drive his digits into her.

“Liizz” he hissed against her ear. She could hear the strain in his voice and knew what he was saying. Pushing his hand away from her dripping core, she stood momentarily to rip his oversized shirt from her body. Max had already released his raging member from his boxers and it jolted proudly against his stomach.

Liz froze at the sight of him sitting against the wall hard and ready for her. She inhaled sharply. “God you’re beautiful” she spoke in awe. She couldn’t believe that she had been blessed to find such a wonderful, caring, devoted and gentle man and father like him. His love was so pure and unrestricted. How could someone possibly not love him? Walking over him, she slid down to her knees her heat brushing his cock.

“I love you” she spoke as her hand stroked his cheek.

“I love you too” he ran his strong hands up her back, settling on her shoulders as he brought her lips down to his for a soulful kiss. His kiss grew hungrier as he sucked greedily on her tongue. Reaching between their heated bodies, Liz gripped his manhood. She positioned his swollen head at her opening and slowly eases onto him, inch by pulsating inch. Their lovemaking was slow and calculated as she rode him with great nimbleness. The blood pounded in his ears as he met her thrust for thrust. His grip on her hip tightened, as she wrapped her arms around his neck resting their foreheads together. Their bodies slapped and sloshed together as sweat covered their vibrating forms. With their eyes locked, pouring with love, they exploded together in a breathtaking orgasm.

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

Jake lay stiffly in his hotel bed staring blindly at the ceiling above him. His cell on the night stand rung persistently. He didn’t have to have to look at the caller ID to know that it was Lillian. She had been calling for the last week, leaving messages when he didn’t answer. Swinging his legs over the edge of the bed, he stared at it as it took its final ring. He sighed heavily, running his hands through his hair once it finally stopped. He couldn’t talk to her, not now. His mind was in complete jumbles, and he didn’t think he would be able to express what he really wanted too clearly without his emotions getting the best of him. The phone suddenly rung again. This time he picked it up, staring at the number on the little screen.

“Hello” he answered in a monotone voice.

“Patterson...where the hell are you” the angry voice on the other end demanded? “You were supposed to be here an hour ago...Johnson and Connor are practically blowing smoke out of their ears and are chewing ” Jake looked at his watch, cursing when he realized he had forgotten about the meeting to finish up the case. He listened to Barry on the end of the line as he went around the room gathering his briefcase and throwing on one of his business suits.

“Barry I’ll be there in twenty minutes” he clipped as his partners voice was starting to annoy him.

“Make it ten” with that the line went dead. Jake stared at it for a second before stuffing it in his pocket. Knowing there was nothing he could do about the thoughts racing through his head at the moment. He pushed them deep down, knowing he was going to need a clear head for this final meeting.

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

Lillian glanced at the clock before heading toward the door. When she opened it, she hadn’t been accepting the person on the other side.

“Can I come in” Jake asked stuffing his hands in his pocket, shifting slightly from foot to foot?

“Um...sure” she stepped aside letting him enter. Closing the door with a soft click, she turned to find him pacing the small confines of the room. “Are you okay...I tried calling you all week? I thought you had left for New York without saying good bye” he detected the hurt in her voice as she leaned against the door.

“I’ve been busy” he replied grimily, raking his hand through his dirty brown hair making it stick out every which way. Lillian didn’t buy that excuse for one minute. Over the past month, even when he was extremely busy, he would always find time to call her. Even if it was to tell her he was busy, but wanted to hear her voice. Something had definitely happened.
“What’s going on Jake...why do you look so agitated” Stepping closer, she placed a hand on his arm. Jake stepped back from her touch. “What happened...did I do something wrong” her worries were growing as he resumed his pacing?

Jake paced back and forward, his mind reeling as he tried to come up with answers to the questions in his head. He had been driving all evening, wondering if he what he was thinking was wrong, but then an image of her piercing blue eyes flashed in his mind, and he needed to know. Stopping his movements, he stared hard at her.

“Let me ask you something...” he began, “ and I need you to be honest with me here Lil.”

“What is it” she whispered, confusion settling itself upon her?

“Is Amber mine?” The question threw her for a loop, causing her to stumble back against the door.

“W-why would you even ask me something like that” she hissed after she got over her shock?

“Don’t give me that...I did the math and the kid looks just like my grandmother when she was little” he retorted angrily.

“What the hell are you talking about? What math? Jake . . . why would you think Amber is yours...WE never slept together” she threw back just as hotly.

“Yes! We did” he wasn’t just angry now, but hurt as well that she could pretend that nothing happened. “Billy Weavers Thanksgiving party...ring a bell” he asked sarcastically.

Jake laughed as Tommy relayed the joke to them. The party was in full swing, and he was glad he had decided to come home for Thanksgiving. After an intense semester at UNYC, he was in need of a little unwinding. Billy Weaver definitely knew how to throw a party. Even when they were in high school, everyone who was anyone was at Billy’s party. His parents were always traveling, and Billy took advantage every time. The parties were filled with booze and drugs, for those that were into that sort of thing, loud music and sex. They would always end with the police being called and Billy receiving a citation.

“Hey Jake, you want another beer” Greg, another one of his high school buddies he had ran into at the party asked him. Jake stared at the empty bottle in his hand, debating if he should. He was already on number three, and he was feeling a little buzzed already.

“Nah...I’m good” he returned. Leaning against the wall, he took in the party scene. There were a lot of people there. He even recognized a few girls he use to date, and a few he didn’t know. Suddenly another crowd of people came through the door. Jake stood up straighter when he noticed her in the crowd. He looked around for ‘him,’ but he wasn’t with her like usual. She was just as beautiful as the last time he had seen her. He watched her laugh at something as some guy leaned over and whispered something in her ear.

Lillian Guerin, he had always had a major crush on her since they were in grade school. Even though she was a year younger then he, he couldn’t shake the feelings he had for her. But she was always with that Evans guy. If you saw her, he was surely not far behind or vice versa. He never had a chance. He had thought that when he went away to college that he would be able to forget about her. There were thousands of girls to help him forget, but instead he threw himself into his studies. It had worked, but now seeing her after all this time, those feelings resurfaced. He watched as she danced seductively with a few people, swaying her hips back and forward. Walking into the kitchen, he grabbed a cup of punch. Taking a sip, he winced as the spiked drink burn his throat.

“Hey” Jake looked up to see Lillian standing beside him. “Great party huh?”

“Y-yeah...great” he stumbled.

“So, you have a special bond with the ladle or can a girl get some punch” she teased. Jake realized he was still gripping the ladle in his hand, and blushed.

“Sorry” he handed it over to her, and watched as she poured herself a drink.

“I’m Lillian” she smiled offering her hand.

“Jake.” Lillian narrowed her eyes before they widen in recognition,

“Hey...you were in my Lit class last year” she giggled, “you use to sit in the back with all the other jocks” she recalled.

Jake chuckled. “Yeah, that was I.” She nodded digesting the information. They continued to talk over the loud music, refilling their cups when necessary.

“Oooh, I love this song” Lillian beamed as Nirvana’s ‘Smells like Teen Spirt’ blasted through the huge speakers. “Come on, lets dance” she pulled him out on the dance floor where she proceeded to get lost in the music. Jake watched as she tilted her head back and closed her eyes, a peaceful smile on her face. The song ended, and Lillian opened her eyes to find him staring at her, a lopsided grin on his face.

“What, you don’t dance” she raised an eyebrow at him?

“I’m not much of a fast dancer” he shrugged. Just then a slow song came on, and her smile grew brighter.

“Well it looks like I’m in luck...” stepping closer, she wrapped her arms around his neck, “show me your moves Jake.” Wrapping his arms around her waist. He pulled her firmly against him.

Things became a blur after that. One moment they were dancing in each others arms and the next Jake was breathing heavily as he ripped her shirt from her torso, while she worked desperately at his pants. Soon their clothes were discarded, and he was ramming into her relentlessly...


“Oh my god” Lillian cried as everything came rushing back in agonizing detail. Her legs grew weak, and she slid down to the floor. “No...no...god no” she whispered, clamping her hand over her mouth as a strangled sob escaped her lips. Seeing the anguish on her face, Jake sat down with a heavy thud. He buried his face in his hands, trying to calm the gut twisting emotions inside him.

“You honestly don’t remember do you” he finally asked, rubbing his face tiredly? He had thought she was trying to keep what happened a secret from Max, but as he took in her shell shocked expression, he knew that wasn’t the case. She honestly didn’t remember what had transpired that night. The revelation was like a kick in the gut to him. He stared over at her shaking form as she shook her head mutely. Silence fell over them, the only sound was from her tiny whimpers.

“I-I was so stoned and wasted that night...I don’t even remember how I got home” she admitted. Guilt and humiliation washed over her as she recalled how out of control her life had been. Jake only jerked his head at her admission before standing. He stuffed his hands in his pocket. “I know this is totally weird...but...I need to know...I need to know if she’s mine” he swallowed thickly. He headed toward the door his movements making her surge to her feet.

“Jake please...don’t do this” she begged grabbing his arm. Jake froze at the door, his hand gripping the handle tightly.

“I need to know...I’m sorry” he escaped out the door. Lillian sunk down to her knees and cried.

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

Max loaded the last load of lumber in his truck. He was excited because he and Michael were going to start the nursery, and he couldn’t wait for Liz to see the finished resulted. Securing the lumber to the truck, he shook hands with the store owner before climbing into his truck. Checking to make sure the spot behind him was clear, turned back to stare ahead of him only to freeze when he saw Lillian standing in front of his truck. Killing the engine, he stepped tentatively out of the truck his eyes never leaving hers. As he grew closer Max noticed her tear stained face.

“Lillian what’s wrong...what happened” fear clutching his chest? Seeing the concern in his eyes made fresh tears run down her face.

“I...I need to talk to you.”

[Lady Scorpio]

Thanks for being patient, and since I know you've been waiting on this next part, I won't delay any longer. Hope you like it..........


Chapter 26

Max drove silently, occasionally glancing over at her stiff form in the passengers set beside him. She hadn’t said anything since announcing she needed to talk to him. They had been driving for some time now, and he had to admit his curiosity was getting the best of him. Not only was his curiosity growing, but his worries as well. He knew that Lillian was preparing to return to London soon, and he was worried about what that meant. Amber was just now starting to warm up to her, just now wanting to spend time with her without feeling uncomfortable as she did when Lillian first arrived. He wondered how her impending departure would affect his daughter.

Lillian stared out the open window. Fall was in full effect now, and it wouldn’t be long before winter crept in. She hadn’t been asleep since Jake had left her room two nights ago. Her mind was into much of a jumble to even contemplate sleep. Every time she closed her eyes, she would see Max’s face and the pain that she knew she was about to bestow upon him. She knew that there was no way around it. She had to tell him the truth. He deserved the truth. There was a part of her that wanted to run, hide, from her horrible mistake, but then she knew she had done enough running in her life.

She could feel his eyes on her occasionally, but she couldn’t return. She couldn’t stomach the concern for her that was for sure there. Would he still feel so much concern or worry for her once she told him the truth, or would he hate her and look upon her with disgust the way she did when she looked in the mirror nowadays? Her stomach was twisted in knots, and tears burned her eyes at thought of what she was about to tell him.

Pulling up to the clearing, Max killed the engine and turned tentative eyes to her. Lillian eyes were trained on the clearing. She took in the different rays of colors the fallen leaves as the blanketed the ground. It was such a beautiful sight. Such a beautiful place.

“Could we go somewhere else” she whispered, not taking her eyes off the clearing? The thought of telling him here was terrifying. They had spent so many joyous moments at the clearing, she didn’t want to taint the memories the clearing held. Max was about to protest until he saw the lonely tear slid down her cheek. He nodded mutely before turning over the engine once again. Several minutes later they arrived at the Hilton and Max followed her as she climbed out of the truck and made her way to her room. Silence fell over them as they entered the room and Max saw first hand the evidence of her departure.

“Is this about you returning to London? Amber told me that you asked her to come stay with you for the holidays” he finally asked.

“This isn’t about that” she whispered, averting her eyes from his concerned ones. “Max...I need to talk to you...a-and I really don’t know where to begin...I-I...oh god” she choked out, sinking into the sofa, burying her face in her hands. Max sat down gently beside her, stroking her back tenderly.

“Whatever it is, it’ll be okay” he whispered comfortingly. Lillian stared up at him with tearful eyes. Would he think so once she finished telling him the truth? Shrugging off his soothing hand, Lillian stood and began to pace the small confines of the hotel room. For the last two days she had, had the conversation planned out in her head, but as she looked at his expectant face, everything she had planned flew out the window. She was frightened of his reaction. She had already messed up when she left and then she returns and has only seemed to cause more damage then anything.

“Lillian” his voice was quickly filling with annoyance as he watched her paced the floor while wringing her hands in front of her. Lillian stopped as his voice penetrated her internal battle. Running a shaky hand through her hair, she knew she couldn’t procrastinate any longer. Flopping in the armchair next to him, she sighed heavily before saying the words she knew was about to change everything.

“T-there might be a chance...t-that Amber isn’t yours” a strangled cry followed her admission.

“What?” Lillian shook at the calm way he spoke, because she knew Max. She knew that although his voice was calm, underneath he was ready to explode. Especially from the way his jaws flexed repeatedly from him clutching his teeth together and the veins in his neck pulsated angrily. Max was the sweetest person there was, but when he was pissed even the devil himself ran for cover.

The silence following his question only seemed to infuriate him more, and he jumped up from the couch startling Lillian even more. “WHAT. THE. HELL. ARE. YOU. TALKING. ABOUT?” he demanded towering over her trembling form.

“Max please ju...” her sentence was cut off as he grabbed her by the arms and held her tightly against him.

“What do you mean...she may not be mine” his face was inches from hers and his angry pants hammered against her face?

“Max...you’re hurting me” she whimpered as his fingers dug painfully into her arm. Hearing her painful cry, Max released her with an angry shove.

“Lillian...you better start explaining right now...so help me God...” he said through tight lips. Lillian nodded rubbing her arms where his fingers had left ugly red marks.

“You have to believe me...I never meant to hurt you...” she started. Max pinned her with an evil glare before she continued. She told him about the party, about Jake, about everything and once she was finished she was in tears once again, and Max...he could even breathe. Sinking down on the sofa with shaky legs, he resisted the urge to throw up as everything she told him slowly began to sink in. The thought that Amber couldn’t be his was making breathing difficult. So much was rushing through his head, and he could vaguely hear her as she tried to explain.

“We had, had that fight...and I was so upset...I wasn’t thinking straight” she tried to justify her actions. They had gotten into a huge fight the evening of the party.

“You promised me you would stop” Max spoke angrily, flushing the rest of her stash in the toilet.

“What are you doing...that’s my money you’re wasting” she demanded, pulling effortlessly on his arm? Max jerked his arm away from her, slicing her with a heated glare.

“How could you...all this time, you’ve been lying to me...keeping secrets while you went behind my back and continue to poison yourself with this shit!” he slammed his fist into the wall, creating a nice size hole. Lillian didn’t flinch but stared up at him with hatred.

“Oh please Max” she bit out, “I’m so sick of you telling me how I should live MY life...you’re starting to sound more and more like my parents” she turned her back on him, and began gathering her stuff, jamming them into her backpack. Max was furious. Stalking behind her, he turned her roughly to face him.

“I’m not trying to tell you how to live YOUR life...I’m trying to save your life” he retorted hotly.

“Why?...why do you even care what I do...why the fuck do you care if I live or not” she snapped, pulling her arm away from his grip?

“Why do I care...why do I care...” he growled, “I care because I love you...don’t you know that...I LOVE YOU damn it...that’s why I care and I refuse to sit back and watch you go down this destructive road” he screamed at her.

“You know what Max...” she resumed stuffing her thinks in her bag, “I didn’t ask for you to love me...and I sure as hell didn’t ask for your help...so back off” and with that she stormed out of his room, leaving an equally angry Max in her wake. After she had left his house, Lillian had headed straight to Greg’s.

“Hey Babygirl” Greg grinned as he pulled opened the door. He stepped aside to let her in. Lillian nodded to Eve and Terrence who were sitting on the sofa in the living room snorting lines.

“Wantta hit” Terrence grinned widely, offering the mirror to her. Wanting to forget about the fight she and Max had, she accepted. They sat around doing lines and shooting up. They all had a pretty good buzz when the phone rung. Greg reached over and answered. Talking a few seconds before hanging up.

“Party at Billy Weaver’s...who’s up for some fun?”

“So instead of talking to me about it...you run out spread your legs for any Tom, Dick or Harry” he hissed with disgust.

“It wasn’t like that...it didn’t mean anything to me” she responded meekly.

“No! I meant nothing to you” he shouted. “God I gave you my virginity two weeks later...how stupid could I’ve been...you probably had it planned all along...stupid, naive Max would believe anything I say...I’ll just pawn the kid off as his” he bit out sarcastically.

“Max...please don’t say that...it’s not true and you know it. I loved you...I never sat out to hurt you” she sobbed, his words killing her slowly.

“Please...save your tears for someone who gives a damn” he glared. Silence fell over them once again as they both tried to calm the racing emotions inside them.

“What are we going to do about Jake” she finally asked after several tense minutes had past? “He’s wanting to know rather or not s-she’s his” she bit her lip nervously.

“You know what...I don’t care what he wants...from this moment on, I want you and him to stay away from my daughter” he stated firmly before making his way toward the door.

“Max, you can’t just leave...we have to discuss this” she pleaded.

“I’m finish talking to you...I can’t even stand the sight of you right now” the door slammed behind him with a loud clap. Lillian stared at it with renewed tears in her eyes.

Climbing into his truck, Max turned the ignition, but didn’t throw it into gear. Instead, he just sat there for a moment, his anger soon turning into sorrow. As he sat there, a song on the radio
suddenly drifted to his ears, and he snorted inwardly at the irony of how the song protrayed exactly how he felt.

Night lift up the shades let in the brilliant light of morning
But steady me now for I am weak and starving for mercy
Sleep has left me alone to carry the weight of unraveling where we went wrong
And all I can do to keep me from falling into old familiar shoes

How stupid could I be
a simpleton could see
that you’re no good for me
but you’re the only one I see

And that’s exactly how he felt...stupid. Stupid for ever thinking that she had ever loved him. For letting her back in his life...in his daughters life when his family warned him not too. But once again he was stupid enough to forgive her...to let her back in...to trust her. But this time it wasn’t just him she was hurting, but Amber as well.

Love has made me a fool set me on fire and watched as I floundered
unable to speak but to cry our and wait for your answer
and you come around in your time speaking of fabulous places
create an oasis that dries up as soon as you’re gone
you leave me here burning in this desert without you

“Fuck” he cried out into the empty cab as his fists slammed down angrily on the steering wheel.

How stupid could I be
a simpleton could see
that you’re no good for me
but you’re the only one I see

Everything changes everything falls apart
I can’t stand to feel myself losing control
In the deep of my weakness I know

What was he supposed to tell Amber? How was he supposed to tell her that he may not be her father? It’s something he couldn’t even comprehend, how did he except his ten-year-old daughter to understand. She has been through so much already, and he knew that this would be the straw that finally broke the camels back. Laying his head against the headrest, he desperately fought the tears that stung his eyes. But it was useless as they fell endlessly in the caverns of his ears. Next thing he knew he was overcome by gut wrenching sobs.

How stupid could I be
a simpleton could see
that you’re no good for me
but you’re the only one I see

Stupid....Sarah McLachlan

~~~~~~~~~~

“Hey” Liz smiled as she saw him walk into the kitchen. Too busy was she with dinner that she failed to notice the forlorn expression on his face. “I didn’t know if you wanted chicken or fish tonight, so instead I went with meatloaf...I hope that’s alright” she rambled though the refrigerator looking for the salad dressing. “Oh, and it’s just you and me tonight, Amber’s spending the night at Sabrina’s. She said she’d call before they went to bed to say goodnight” when he didn’t answer, Liz finally turned around to see him still standing in the doorway. “Max, what’s wrong,” finally aware of the tear stains on his face and the redness of his eyes? Making her way to him, her eyes searched his face. He didn’t say anything, just engulfed her into his strong embrace as he held on tightly.

“Max, what happened” she asked, holding his shaking form to her? His grip only growing tighter as he sunk to the ground, pulling her down with him.

“How could s-she do this to me” he sobbed against her bosom, “How?” His cries echoed around the large kitchen squeezing painfully at Liz’s heart. Her own tears welling up in her eyes as she tried to comfort him.

“Baby talk to me...” Liz pleaded, running her fingers through his locks, while rocking him gently. Again his only response was another anguish sob escaping his throat. “Max...you’re scaring me...please tell me what happened...what’s going on” she cradled his tear streaked face in her hands, willing him to look at her. When he did, she was met with nothing but his hollow eyes and torn face. Her heart ached for him. Wanting nothing more then to take away his pain.

“Oh Max” she cried, kissing his salty cheeks before bringing her lips over his for a tender kiss. “What happened?”

[Lady Scorpio]

Chapter 27

Max carried his trembling wife up the stairs. The dinner she had been preparing forgotten. He had just finished telling her what had happened and as hard as she tried to comfort him, it had been she that really needed the comforting. Making it to their room, he laid her gently in the middle of the bed. Liz instantly reached for him, needing his comfort.

“Shh . . . Love, it’s going to be okay” he assured her as he spooned in behind her, rubbing his large hand over her swelling middle. At five and a half months, her stomach was as round as a basketball protruding out from her small frame. They had been to the doctor just that morning, and despite Liz’s sudden weight increase, everything was progressing smoothly.

“H-how could you say that,” she hiccupped, “Aren’t you worried about what this could mean” another sob escaped her at the thought that they could possibly lose their daughter. Max knew what she was thinking and he wasn’t worried. There was no way in Hell anyone was going to take Amber from them. He felt his anger once again rising, but he quickly squashed his emotions to concentrate on his pregnant wife.

“Liz . . . Love, you have to calm down” he soothed, stroking her belly as he nuzzled her neck. “Think of the baby” he whispered against her. Liz nodded, trying to reign in her emotions. She took several deep breaths as she listened to him whisper softly in her ear.

“I can’t lose her Max . . . she’s my baby” she finally whispered after a short pause. Max could hear the slight tremble in her voice and cradled her closer.

“Shh...don’t even think like that. She’s my baby too, and I promise, no one is going to take her from us or mess up our family” he stated firmly.

“What are we going to tell Amber” she asked, entwining her fingers with his as their hands rested over their unborn child? “I don’t think she’ll be able to handle this...she has already been through so much,” she whispered brokenly, “God, I wish she had never came back...I wish she would just leave our family alone” she pouted. It seemed like every since Lillian’s return, their lives had been nothing but one big drama. Like a bad episode of Maury Povich.

“It’s okay Love.” he kissed the back of her head lovingly, “We’ll get through this I promise and as for Amber we’ll figure out something. I won’t let her get hurt” he vowed, squeezing her more firmly against him.

Hearing the strong reassurance in his voice, Liz nodded, knowing that he wouldn’t let anything happen to their family. “Okay” she whispered. Max turned her over so that he could see her face. He ran the pad of his thumb over her tear stained cheeks before pressing a tender kiss to her forehead.

“Rest” he whispered, noticing the tired look in her eyes.

“What about dinner” she inquired but already feeling her eyelids becoming heavy with sleep?

“I’ll take care of it, you just relax and get some sleep” not even five minutes later, she was fast asleep. Her head resting comfortably on his chest as he ran hypnotizing fingers through her hair. Once her small snores reached his ears, Max knew that she was in a deep sleep. Carefully as not to disturb her, he extracted himself from beneath her, kissing her forehead when she twisted in her sleep. She mumbled his name before finally settling in a fetal position on his side of the bed. He knew she wouldn’t come looking for him like usual. Since she was getting up in months in her pregnancy, she was a lot more fatigue and needed her rest. It didn’t matter if he was beside her or not. Taking a moment to gaze over her sleeping form, he smiled slightly as her protruding belly stuck out from under her drifting tank top and her navel poked out innocently. With one last stroke on her belly, he made his way down to the kitchen.

Max cleaned away their forgotten dinner and washed the dishes. Pepper danced at his feet, pulling roughly on his pants leg. “You hungry girl” he asked, scratching her gently behind the ears? “Lets see, I know I’m not as good of a cook as mommy. . . but I’ll give it a shot” he went about preparing her dinner, and once he was finished he sat the dish in front of her. Max watched as she sniffed once then twice before turning her nose up at it and walking out of the kitchen. “Spoiled bitch” Max mumbled under his breath. He finished the kitchen before going out to his truck to retrieve the lumber and placing it in one of the spare rooms. He began measuring and cutting out the pieces for the crib. He worked hard, concentrating solely on the project in front of him. Fore he knew that if he stopped, his mind would wander to Amber and the possibility that she may not be his. No, he couldn’t think about that. So instead he concentrated on the crib to keep his mind from being idle. Two hours later he had the wood for the frame cut out perfectly and the only thing left for him to do was carve in the design, put it together, sand and paint it. Noticing the time, he decided to finish the next day, not wanting to wake Liz with the hammering that would be going on. Slowly, he drug his sawdust covered form up the stairs intent on taking a long shower before climbing in to bed and snuggling up to his beautiful wife. On his way to their room, he walked past Amber's room and felt a sudden pressure against his chest. Taking a step towards her door, he slowly pushed it open.

The moon cased an ethereal glow upon the room as it shined through the large picture window. Max walked around the room touching various objects. He smiled at the memories some of them held. He touched the trophy from her first riding competition and had to swallow the huge lump that suddenly clogged his throat at the memory it held. He could still see the way Charcoal had tossed her small body around and her lying unconscious in Liz’s arms. That had been a very had time for them, but they pulled through...together. Moving over her dresser, his fingers danced over the jewelry box Liz had gotten her for her birthday. He opened it, and the sounds of Brahms Lullaby began to play softly. As it played, he walked over to her bed and sat down. Picking up a picture frame from her night stand, he simply stared at it. It was her school picture, and she was sporting the biggest smile. Running his fingers lightly over her features, he couldn’t help but wonder. He took in her eyes...the way they sparkled blue, like the ocean. She didn’t have his eyes. His eyes travel over her nose...her lips...her ears. None of them his.

Tears he hadn’t even noticed had came, fell soundlessly onto the picture. He didn’t want to have any doubts, but now that the seed had been planted, he couldn’t help but wonder. Was she his daughter? More tears flowed at the thought. How could this beautiful...smart...caring girl not be his daughter. He remembered the first day he had brought her home from the hospital. She had been so tiny, he was afraid that he would break her, but then she looked up at him with those innocent blue-gray eyes with so much trust, he knew that he could never let her go. She was his heart...his everything and no matter what anyone claimed, she was his daughter.

Curling up on her bed, he hugged the picture tightly against his chest and cried. He didn't know how long he laid there, but arms suddenly wrapped around his waist and held him close. Liz didn’t say anything, just held him as he cried, burying her face in the crook of his neck.

~~~~~~~

“Alright mommies,” the instructor began.

“Hey” Maria spoke up offended.

“And Maria” she rolled her eyes playfully at the young lady, “you guys did great today...remember to keep doing your breathing exercises, and I’ll see you Wednesday” she smiled before getting ready for her next class.

Maria took a swig of her water as she watched all the pregnant women waddle from side to side as they tried desperately to retrieve their belongings. She had to hold in her giggle at all the huge bellies in the room. Liz was taking a yoga class for mommies but she didn’t want to take it alone. So being her best friend, she volunteered to take the class with her. At first she had been uncomfortable around all the pregnoids, fearing that they would jinks her, but she soon got over it and really enjoyed the class just as much as Liz.

“You ready” Liz asked as she shrugged on her coat?

“Yeah.” the two of them made their way out of the community center. They talked about their upcoming Thanksgiving plans and whose house it was going to be held. As the walked to the car, Liz listened as she complained about the wedding plans her mom had sent. Apparently Amy DeLuca already had a guest list 300 names long and had rented a horse and carriage for the event.

“I mean...I don’t even know three hundred people...and I sure as hell don’t want to be smelling like some freaking horse on my wedding day” she huffed. Liz giggled but quickly stopped from the glare Maria sent her.

“Have you told Amy how you feel” she asked, trying to help any way she could. Maria gave her a pointed look.

“We’re talking about a woman who only hears what she wants to hear. I mean it’s not like I don’t want her apart of the planning, I just don’t want things to get out of hand. Michael and I just want something simply with just our closest friends and family, not this circus she’s planning.” Liz wrapped a comforting arm around her shoulders rubbing her arm soothingly.

“Calm down sweetie. Do you want me to talk to her for you” she offered?

“Would you” Maria asked hopefully?

“Of course...that’s what Matron of Honor are there for, to keep nagging mothers at bay” she teased. The two shared a laugh as they continued the trek to the car.

“Liz” both Liz and Maria turned to find Lillian standing awkwardly behind them. Maria instantly stood protectively in front of Liz.

“What the hell do you want” she bit out? Liz had confided in her about what had been going on and to say, if she hated that bitch when she first arrived, her hate for her increased ten folds at what she was putting her best friend and her family through.

“Maria” Liz admonished, placing a firm grip on her friends coat knowing that if given a reason, Maria would attack. Maria glared hatefully at Lillian, allowing Liz to pull her back.

“What do you want Lillian?”

“I was hoping we could talk” she answered meekly.

“What could you possibly have to say that I would want to listen to” Liz retorted calmly?

“I was hoping you could talk to Max...get him to talk to me” it had been a week since he had stormed out of her room. She had been calling him but he wouldn’t answer her calls. She had even showed up at his office, but he refused to see her and had his secretary escort her off the premises.

“Why would he want to talk to a skank like you” Maria blurted in?

“Maria!” Liz turned back to Lillian.

“I’m sorry, but I can’t help you” she started to walk away.

“Can’t or won’t” Lillian bit out? Liz twirled around, her calmness gone and in its place anger.

“How dare you” she lashed out, “why would I convince my husband to talk to someone who has brought him nothing but heartache and pain?”

“It was never my intentions to hurt him or Amber. Contrary to your beliefs I love them both” she stated simply.

Liz snorted and Maria laughed. “You sure as hell have a funny way of showing your love” Liz replied, “What with abandoning your newborn in the hospital and crushing the heart of a wonderful man...yeah, way to say I love you” she bit out sarcastically.

“You don’t know a thing about me or my life, so don’t sit there and act like your shit doesn’t stink” Lillian returned hotly.

“You’re right, I don’t know a thing about you. But I do know that all you’ve done since you’ve been here is cause turmoil. Why did you even bother coming back?”

“I came for my daughter” Liz didn’t miss the way she stressed my. “Like it or not I’m her mother, not you-”

“You bitch” Liz launched forward, only to be detained by Maria’s tight grip. Liz fought against her hold.

“Whoa there Laila Ali, you’re pregnant and you don’t want to stress out my little nephew” once she saw Liz calm down a little she patted her stomach. “I, on the other hand am not pregnant” she swirl around ready to rip every blonde hair out of Lillian’s head.

“No Maria...she isn’t worth it” she stated, placing a hand on her forearm.

“Look, I didn’t come here to fight” Lillian ran her gloved covered hand down her overcoat. “I just thought you could talk to Max...make him see that I want this all to be over with just as much as he does. This thing with Jake isn’t going to go away just because he ignores it. What happened was a mistake on my part and I’m woman enough to admit it. I just want a chance to talk to him, that’s all” with that, she left them standing there in her wake.

“Can you believe the nerves of that bitch?” Maria glared at her retreating form, “She’s lucky you held me back because I was going to kick her ass all the way back to London” when she didn’t get a response out of Liz, she turned around, only to find her friend in tears. “Oh sweetie, what’s wrong?” She wrapped her arms around her as she ran a comforting hand up and down her back.

Liz didn’t answer, just continued to cry. She had put on a brave face and was fueled by anger when she had been talking to Lillian, but the things she had said about her not being Amber’s mother had stung.

“Shh...don’t let that witch upset you. She’s nothing but a skanky ho. You’re twice the mother she’ll ever be” she cursed Lillian silently as she held her friend. “Come on, lets get you home and out of this weather before you catch a cold and Max would kill me” she joked, earning a small laugh from Liz. Wrapping her arm around her waist, Maria lead her towards the car as Liz laid her head on her shoulder.

~~~~~~~~~~

Max sat at his desk, working diligently on his next project. It had been a week since Lillian had turned their world upside down once again. Even though he had demanded that she left them alone, she had made several attempts to contact him over the last week, but after she had turned up at his office and he had promptly had her thrown out. He knew she wouldn’t try it again. It was hard at first trying to explain to Amber why she hadn’t heard from Lillian, but after four days of asking and wondering, she had drop the subject altogether. Of course the house was now filled with tension, and he was starting to wonder if their decision not to tell Amber what was going on, was a wise one. He wasn't stupid, he knew she knew something was going on, but she hadn’t questioned them on it, yet.

“Mr. Evans” Lucy’s voice sounded over the intercom.

“Yeah."

“There’s a gentleman here to see you” she informed.

“Who is it” he asked, setting down his T-ruler?

“That’s the thing, he won’t give me his name sir” he could hear the irritation in her voice. Max frowned, wondering who the hell it could be. He wasn’t supposed to met any clients until later that afternoon. Standing, he crossed his large office and opened the door.

“Lucy wh-” his sentence was cut short when he saw who was standing in the lobby.

“Max” he nodded in greeting.

“Jake” Max returned through clutched teeth.