Unknown (Angel,XO,UC,MATURE) Ch V 9/30/04 [WIP]

[TatiLoca]

<center>Title: unknown
Author: TatiLoca/Carmen
Email: faerie_dreamer_Xtremer19@hotmail.com
Category: UC, Roswell/Angel x-over
Summary: Based on Lyndy2000?s Roswell/Angel challenge
Rating: Mature, mainly for language and situations.
Disclaimer: I don?t own any thing, if I did the travesty that was
Season 2 would not have happened,
Tess wouldn't have killed sweet Alex, and there would be
no fornication between Max and the she-beast.
So please don?t sue me. </center>



Isn't my banner great? Big Tankies to Anya who made it for me!
She's such a doll!!!

<center> . : : INTRO : : .

Liz Parker and Alex Whitman always knew they were different? They just never knew how different. There's something more than they're being told. And how could they be adopted?

Wesley Wyndam-Pryce vowed to find the siblings that disappeared one day. Years later the happy boy who played games with them is now gone, replaced by a man who has seen too much. What happens when he finds them?

Elizabeth and Alexander Wyndam-Pryce were 4 years old when they disappeared. Twelve year old Wesley vowed to one day find and reunite his family. Fourteen years later he has a solid lead, what happens when his long-lost siblings don't know who he is? Or that they're twins? Now they discover a brother they never knew, and a life they never imagined?

. : : Prologue ~ England, 1988 : : . </center>

Twelve year old Wesley raced up the front walk to house. After being gone for the past 3 months at school he was glad to be home. Careful not to rip on the cobblestone walkway he skidded to a halt at the front door and straightened his school tie before entering. 'Bloody uniforms!' he muttered under his breath, careful not to let anyone hear him. "Mum, I'm home." he announced quietly. He could practically hear her lecture now, ?"proper gentlemen never shout Wesley!" she'd shake her head, cluck her tongue, and pour a drink.

Not seeing anyone around he headed to the nursery. 'I bet the Little Terrors missed me.' Wesley said softly heading up the stairs. Coming to the nursery door he called happily, "Lizbeth? Lex? I'm home. Come on out you little terrors!" Noticing they weren't there, Wesley backed out of the twin's room. "Where is everyone?" he asked the empty hallway. "You'd think they'd be excited to see me." He scowled.

Going back downstairs he heard the quiet murmur of voices, following the sound to his father's study. Peeking through the slightly cracked door his brows furrowed at the sight of his mother and grandfather in the same room. Making sure to stay out of sight he set in to listen.

"I don't care what you say Fredrick! They are my children. I want them back!" Emma shouted from her position by the window, a glass of bourbon or sherry in her hand. From where he stood Wesley couldn't be certain.

"Your children! That's rich Emma. All you do is sit here all day drunk, when was the last time you did anything for them?" Fredrick countered standing opposite of her at his desk.

"Shut up!" Emma shouted throwing her now empty glass at her husband, who ducked just in time. "Just shut up! I love them! When was the last time you even saw them? Now they're gone. Find them!"

"You think I don't want to find them? They're my children too. You blasted lush, it's your damn fault they're gone! You looked away! You let our children be stolen!" Fredrick hurled the accusation not caring at the audience they had.

As his words sank in Emma collapsed to the floor sobbing. Her children were gone and she had no idea how to find them. It was her fault. Realizing his words had accomplished their goal to hurt Emma, Fredrick immediately wanted to take them back.


"Emma, I'm sorry. It-it's not your fault. I-" Fredrick began but was cut off by his father.

"Both of you be quiet. I'm sorry it's been 6 months already. If anyone knew anything they would have come forward by now. Don't you think it's time to accept that they're gone?" seeing his words shut the two up he continued, "Now we need to decide what to tell Wesley. You know how attached he was to those two."

"What are we supposed to say Harold? Sorry dear, but while you were at school mum took your brother and sister to the park and they were kidnapped. Six months ago! That will go over fabulously." Emma shot out sarcastically, shrugging off her husband's touch as he tried to hold her.

"What?" Wesley asked from the doorway. His face had gone pale as he listened to what was being said.

"Wesley, darling, what are you doing here?" his mother asked nervously.

"I live here," he answered evenly, "What's going on? Were you serious? Lizbeth and Lex are g-gone?" he stuttered over the last word.

"Yes," came his father's quiet reply, "They were taken-"

"Six months ago! Six bloody months ago and you never saw fit to tell me! How could you not tell me?" Wesley shouted.

"Wesley! Don't you dare raise your voice. A proper gentle-" his mother began.

"My brother and sister have been missing for 6 months and you never told me! I think I'm entitled to yell if I choose!" Wesley shouted again, "Just pour yourself a drink mum."

Storming out of the room Wesley ran up to the nursery curling up in the corner where he used to read to them. "I'll find you both. I swear I will." He vowed as his eyes filled with tears for what would be the last time in a long time.

[TatiLoca]

<center> . : : I ~ Roswell 2002 : : . </center>

(Pretty much the same Prom we all saw, only slightly different in the conversations and outcomes of said conversations. I don’t intend for this to be plagiarism in any way. If there is a problem please let me know. In italics is actual dialogue from the show. )

Liz and Max are sitting at the group’s table looking out at the dance floor. He turns to look at her “So…”

“Yeah…” Liz answers while thinking ‘great conversation skills there buddy.’

“You wanna dance?” he asks gesturing to the floor.

“Sure.” Liz smiles, then the music changes. ‘This was a mistake.’ She thinks, ‘A huge mistake.’ As couples begin to sway Liz looks up at Max. She takes a breath and begins, “I just want to say that I feel really weird.”

“What do you mean?” Max asks pausing his movements.

“I mean I saw you with Tess.” Looking up at him Liz silently pleads ‘Tell me the truth Max. Be my friend again.’

“Saw me what with Tess?” Max asks nervously.

“I saw you with her. I came by your house yesterday to talk to you about something and you were with her.” Liz looks up expectantly, waiting for Max to share or explain. To be her friend again.

“We were just trying to find out things about where I came from, that's all.” Max assures her, his grip slightly tightening. Not painfully, but as if he’s afraid she’ll fly away from him at any moment.

“I know, I know, I mean, you know, you keep saying that. But you um, keep on leaving out this really pertinent fact. That you were married to her. I feel like my whole life for the past year has been waiting for some really bad news. Oh, you know, by the way Liz, I remember Tess, and I love her. It's really paralyzing.” Liz struggled to explain herself, not wanting to sound like a jealous, insecure ex.

“I know it's not easy.” Max tried to soothe her, a feeling of unease settling over him.

“No, Max, it can be. It can be really, really easy. You know, we both just stop pretending.” They were stuck in roles they’d developed at the start of everything.

“What do you mean?”

“You know, maybe we're both just holding on to something that'll never be. Max, maybe we should just let go. I have been in so much pain. This whole year. and it's like I'm suffocating.” Until she spoke the words, Liz hadn’t realized how truthful they were.

“Liz .” Max tries to plead with her but, even that is now just second nature to him.

“Um, I should go, you know, for Maria.” Liz looks up, searching Max’s eyes.

“Right.”

“She's all alone tonight.”

“Go ahead.” Max tells her, his eyes blank.

“Max.” Liz starts, she used to be able to read his eyes. Now it’s as if they’re strangers.

“Just go Liz. I have to…” Max gestures over his shoulder, needing to get away. He watches as she walks away, realizing maybe it’s really over.

----------------------------------------------------

After coming to the realization he thought of Tess as a sister, Kyle felt he needed to clear the air between them.

"So what’s up Kyle?” Tess asked curiously. Something told her whatever Kyle wanted to talk about would have a huge effect on their relationship. For some reason the thought of kissing Kyle made her squirm. It’d be like kissing Michael… ‘Oh God!’ Tess thought, ‘I think of kyle like a brother!’

“Um, Tess, uh you, you're, you're beautiful.” Kyle began wanting to let her know it wasn’t her, it was him.

“Kyle, please don't say that.” Tess interrupted wanting to tell him of her revelation.

“And the thing is, you're not just some girl, I care about you.” Kyle continued trying to keep his nerve. He felt awful, she was going t othink he was an ass. First hitting on her and flirting, and now telling her he thought of her as a sister.

“Kyle, I don't... I just.... “ Tess tried to interrupt him again to no avail.

“I think of you as family. As a sister. I dont' think it could be a romantic thing.” Kyle finished heaving a sigh and awaiting the fall-out.

“I understand. Kyle I think of you the same way.” Tess smiled at Kyle’s dumb-struck expression.

“You do? But I thought? Never mind. I’m gonna quit right now.” Kyle shook his head in disbelief. He had been worried about hurting her, but she felt the same.

“Good idea Buddha Boy!” Tess giggled at ease for the first time that night. Stepping closer she pulled Kyle into a hug. “I did always want a family ya’ know.”

“Well now you have one.” Kyle whispered hugging his ‘sister’. “I wonder what dad’s gonna think?”

“If we pull him and Ms. Deluca out of the Eraser Room we can find out.” Tess offered mischievously.

“EWW!” Kyle yelped. “Thatwas uncalled for, cruel, and disgusting!” he scolded then smiled, “You’ll make a great Valenti.” The two turn to head back into the crowded gym.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Out on the dance floor Liz and Maria are having a great time. Just then Michael walks in. Wearing a tux.

“Holy shit!” Liz exclaims softly. She’d never seen Michael so…spiffy. ‘He looks great.’ She thought to herself, then shook her head. That was her best-friends sometimes boyfriend, she shouldn’t think about how sweet it is he came, or how good he looks in that tux.

“What?” Maria asks not having seen Michael yet. She turns and gasps. “Space boy!”

“Okay, go.”Liz pushes her towards Michael, smiling sadly.

“No, no, me and you, we're a couple now.” Maria insists, Liz wouldn’t leave her alone at Prom. Well neither would she. “I can’t leave you alone.”

“Go!” Liz orders, pushing her again. “I’ll be fine.” She watches as Maria and Michael walk to each other. “Maria is damn lucky.” Liz murmurs softly, then looks around for Max. One of them had to try to revive their friendship, it may as well be her. Again.

---------------------------------------------------------------


“What are you doing here?” Maria asks warily.

“Came here to dance.” Michael tells her, hoping she won’t turn it into a huge deal.

“Well you shoulda brought Juanita.” Maria retorted icily.

“How do you know about her?” Michael asked tiredly. ‘She never quit!’ he thought frustrated.

“I followed you to your pod.” Maria told him still miffed.

“Juanita's my dance teacher.” Michael sighed, rubbing a hand over his face.

“Your dance teacher.” Maria asked incredulously.

“Yeah, I can't dance. And I knew this was a big deal for you so I was taking dancing lessons.”

As realization dawns, Maria feels embarrassed and it shows as she begins to blush brightly. “Oh my God.”

“Wait, did you think Juanita was some chick I was boffing?” Michael demands hurt. ‘She always assumes the worst of me!’ he shook his head as he realized how much that hurt. How much it always hurt.

“Oh my God.” Maria says again, nothing else coming to mind.

“How the hell did you find out about it in the first place...” Michael asks, masking the hurt and disappointment.

“Oh my God, I am like the stupidest person alive.” Maria laughs, reaching for Michael’s hand.

“Maria…” Michael starts, but stops running a hand through his shaggy hair. “Maria we can’t keep doing this.”

“Doing what?” Maria interrupts confused.

“This thing. Me and you. Fighting. All of it.” Michael sighs in growing frustration. “You expect the worst from me. You complain I’m not the perfect boyfriend. You jump to conclusions.”

“Michael, if you would just listen to me a minute.” Maria interrupts again.

“Later Maria. I just can’t right now. I try to do things for you. I took those stupid lessons for you, but it’s not enough. It’s never enough. I’m not enough.” Michael tells her, allowing her to see a little bit of the hurt in his eyes. He turns and walks away, Maria watches him before heading to the table.

-----------------------------------------------------------
continued in next post

[TatiLoca]

-----------------------------------------------------------

Out in the hallway Max is sitting alone, holding his boutonnière. Out of the corner of his eye he sees Kyle and Tess emerge from a classroom, obviously happy. Not knowing what to do he just sits there, his memories and past-life memories swimming in his head.

Tess sees how lost Max looks and approaches. She wants to tell him she’s realized she doesn’t love him. Doesn’t want him as a woman should want a man. She sees him as she sees Michael. “ I'll meet you inside in a minute, okay?” she tells Kyle softly.

“Sure.” Kyle smiles slightly, “But Tess, be sure you know what you want before going after it.” He advises recalling her dogged pursuit of destiny.

Tess just nods, seeing the wisdom in her ‘brothers’ words. “You look sad.” she tells Max sitting next to him.

“I think it's really over.” Max tells her bleakly.

“You mean with Liz.” Tess clarifies, wondering if this is her doing.

“Yeah. I mean I, I realize that, I guess that on some level that things were headed in that direction. I think it's really actually over.” Max tells her, wondering what she’s thinking, if she’s happy.

---------------------------------------------------

“Alex, I'm going to do something, I said I wouldn't do.” Isabel says gazing up into Alex’s eyes.

“Don't.” Alex tells her. He came as a friend. Nothing more.

Ignoring his warning Isabel kisses him, then pulls back wondering if he’ll be upset.

“I asked you not to do that.” Alex sighs looking away. “We’re friends now Is. Only friends.” They finish their dance and walk away. Isabel to the table where Kyle and Maria sit, and Alex to the hall outside.

-------------------------------------------------------

“I remembered something else. I don't know how to feel about it.” Max tells Tess after a bit of silence. Neither notice Alex against the wall outside the gym or Michael further down the hall.

“What do you remember?” Tess asks warily, she knew a little of their memories and most of it wasn’t pretty.

“Our first kiss. It was at a party... late at night. And you...”

“ I turned to whisper something to you. And when you turned to face me...” Tess trailed off remembering how quickly they’d been shoved together and married after that.

“Yeah. We just…” Max looked at her again wondering if she was happy Liz was no longer in her way. He flashes back to seeing Liz in bed with Kyle, and then Tess and Kyle smiling and laughing a few minutes ago. “You must be happy now.” He comments bitingly standing up abruptly.

“What?” Tess asks confused

“You won Tess. Liz left me. I’m all alone. Your Destiny.” Max laughed bitterly. “You finally won Tess. Here I am. All yours now.” He stooped in front of her kissing her roughly, angrily. Lacking the warmth and caring she instinctively knew he’d given Liz. “Tell me.” He whispered harshly, “Are you happy now?”

So caught up in his misery Max never noticed Liz see him kiss Tess, didn’t see her throw her corsage away. Never noticed Alex advancing on him angrily. Never noticed Michael’s disgusted look before he chased after Liz.

The tears welled in Tess’ eyes. She’d never wanted this. Not really. She only did what she’d been told to do. Now look where it got her. “Max, I, I didn’t mean…” Tess stuttered, determined not to cry. She was saved from further humiliation by Max being shoved away from her.

“What the Hell Max?” Alex demanded having seen and over heard Max’s last actions and words. “What’s wrong with you?” Alex swore seeing the tears Tess was fighting.

“None of your business Alex! This is between me and Tess.” Max spit out shoving him away. He mistakenly went to Tess again and before he knew it was sprawled on his ass. He reached up gently cupping his sore jaw and winced.

“FUCK!” Alex swore cradling his hand. “Do all aliens have stone jaws?” he asked Tess trying to lighten the mood.

“Yeah it’s a defense mechanism.” Tess whispered shakily. “Thanks.”

“No problem. Come on.” Alex held out his good hand to Tess. “Let’s go get some ice. I think I broke my hand.” He smiled at her soft giggle.

Taking his hand Tess struggled to keep the tears at bay. They made it past the gym doors before she broke down. Carefully gathering her into his arms Alex rubbed Tess’s back, waiting for the tears to stop. “Shh. It’s okay. Let it out. I’m here.” He told her softly. He looked up to see Max gone and Kyle hurrying towards them.

“What happened?” he asked worriedly. “Tess?”

“Oh nothing Kyle just overwhelmed. I don’t feel so good. I’m gonna head home.” Tess murmured from her spot against Alex’s chest.

Not buying it Kyle looked to Alex for an explanation. “Tess how about you go get your purse and I’ll take you home. Okay?” Alex asked soothingly.

Nodding Tess left, needing to get as far away as possible.

“Whitman?” Kyle asked once Tess was gone.

“Have you seen Max?” Alex asked first. At Kyle’s negative response he started. “I don’t know what’s wrong with him, but he needs to get his head out of his ass damn quick!” Alex hurriedly filled Kyle in on the basics and made him promise to keep everything to himself until he talked to Tess. “And don’t go after him. He has powers. You don’t.” he reminded him.

[TatiLoca]

Sorry for the delay. Personal stuff, life sucks. Thak you all for the fb and bumps. So does everyone love the strong dominant Alex?

<center> . : : II : : . </center>

After her run from the school, Liz found herself walking through the park. She wasn’t sure why she ran after seeing Max with Tess, she just knew she needed to get out of there. Having ditched her heels, she walked in the damp grass bare foot.

“Liz!” she heard someone shout from behind. “Wait. Up.” The slightly out of breath voice called. Turning Liz was surprised to see Michael hobbling after her while holding his side. He’d obviously pulled something. “Damn you’re quick!” he muttered noticing she was swinging her heels with all those strappy things. ‘How can girls walk in those contraptions?’ he asked himself.

“Nah. You’re out of shape.” Liz teased, “Wait, why are you here? Did something happen? Maria? Is she okay? Was it the-” Liz was silenced by Michael gently placing a finger to her lips.

“Easy there. Nothing happened. Well Maria and I had a fight. She’s fine, it’s nothing some therapy and a vat of cypress oil won’t cure.” Michael joked. While he was saddened by the lack of faith Maria had in him, he knew their relationship wasn’t what either of them really needed. Maria needed someone reliable, stable, and emotionally available. He couldn’t be that for her, he still had to deal with things within himself. At the same time, he needed someone to help balance him, someone to believe in him. Shaking off those thoughts he realized he was still touching Liz’s lips. Her smooth, full, soft lips. He hastily snatched his hand back as the thoughts crossed his mind.

“Then what’s up?” Liz asked slightly breathless, hoping Michael didn’t catch the tone in her voice. ‘He looks good rumpled,’ she thought absently.

“I, uh, I saw you run out. I was *cough* worried *cough*.” Michael mumbled.

“About me?” Liz asked confused, “Why?”

“I saw Max and uh, Tess. You know. I saw you throw your wrist thingy away and run out.”

“Oh that.” Liz rolled her eyes. “I’m not sure why I ran. I,” Liz paused to assess Michael’s willingness to listen.

Seeing what she was doing, Michael surprised them both, “I want to know.”

Still unsure, Liz looked into Michael’s eyes, seeing his sincerity she smiled, “Ice cream?”

At his affirmative response the 2 headed back to the park entrance, both quiet.

------------------------------------------------------

Elsewhere in the park Alex sat on a bench watching as Tess and ranted before him. ‘She was pretty,’ he surprised. He’d never thought her pretty, never thought of her as an actual girl either. He’d only ever seen her as the bearer of Destiny and the catalyst for the destruction of all human/alien relationships. Sitting there Alex realized he didn’t know her very well. None of them did, save Kyle.

“I didn’t ask for this you know.” Tess told Alex suddenly. “It seems like I did, huh? But I didn’t ask to be an alien. To be queen. To not have any friends.” The anger in her voice replaced by sadness.

“Tess,” Alex started but she continued on.

“I know no one likes me except Kyle. I’m too alien for the others. The only one I really think has any reason to hate me is Liz, eh maybe Max, but she doesn’t. I don’t think she likes me very much, but she doesn’t hate me.” Tess shook her head in confusion, “Why doesn’t she?”

“Tess, no one hates you. None of us know you all that well. Kyle loves you, so does the Sheriff. I’m pretty sure I like you.” Alex smiles at Tess, wanting her to feel better.

“Fine.” Tess fights back a smile, “So you guys don’t hate me. They like me though.” For some reason she couldn’t be upset while Alex was trying to cheer her up.

“Come on. You need ice cream.” Alex stood up grabbing Tess’s hand and pulling her towards his car.

“Ice cream?” Tess asked confused.

“Yup. Ice cream. I haven’t been best friends with Liz and Maria for nothing.” Alex nodded decisively, they needed chick flicks and ice cream.

“Whatever you say Alex.” Tess murmured dazedly following Alex, who was still holding her hand.

“Alex? Tess?” Liz called out puzzled when she spotted the duo leaving the park. Together.

“Hey Liz. Michael.” Alex nodded.

“Hi Liz.” Tess said quiet;y, wondering why she wasn’t at Prom. “Michael.”

“Whitman.” Michael greeted gruffly. “Tess.”

“So…” Alex trasiled off as the uncomfortable silence set in.

Liz tilted her head to the side looking thoughtful. Apparently satisfied she smiled, “We were going to get ice cream, want to come?”

Shocked Tess stared at Liz as if she were insane. ‘She isn’t serious,’ she thought.

“Sure.” Alex agreed, “Tess? Want to go?” he asked.

“I, uh, I guess. If you’re sure.” Tess stuttered bewildered, even more confused at the sincerity she saw in Liz’s features.

Michael just stood there, partly confused at Liz’s actions. He knew she was nice and forgiving, but still.

“I’m sure, come on.” Liz briefly wondered why Tess and Alex had been at the park. She also wondered why they had all ended up in the park…

[TatiLoca]

AN: Sorry for the delay, this part demanded to be re-written 3 times. Plus I had school, and finals. But I have an update for this and everything else too. Plus I have a 4.0 for my 1st quarter! On with the show! And special thanks to Dream_walker, Elf, angeleyes, and Jen C


<center> . : : III : : . </center>

L.A. - 1 Week later

“Yes. Thank you.” Wes whispered into the phone. Hanging up he propped his head into his hands. “Please don’t let this be another false lead.” Sighing he stands, he’ll need to go home and pack. Again. No one knew he still searched for the siblings who had disappeared 14 years ago. As he left his office he heard the others in the lobby.

“Hey Wes!” Angel called out excitedly, “Come see what Connor can do!”

Smiling at the friends he considers family, Wes slowly enters the Hyperion lobby. There sat Cordy, proud as any mother watching Angel with Connor, Fred and Gunn talking in hushed whispers, that still caused a pang to his heart, but it was more from loneliness than jealousy.

“Um,” he cleared his throat and began again, “I have to go out of town for a while. It won’t be long. I think.” Wes carefully avoided looking anyone in the eye. If he did he would see concern and explain everything again, or maybe pity. He didn’t need pity.


“Wes,” Gunn began, “Man what’s up? Is something wrong on a case?” he asked something about Wes’ stance was off. Something was going on. “Why you going out of town?” he tried catching Wes’ eye knowing if he did Wes would spill. Eye contact always worked, and it was his duty as Wes’ boy to find out what Wes was up to.

Wes fidgeted before giving up and telling them, he knew it was over once Gunn managed to catch his eye. ‘Damn him for being a good friend!’ he thought mentally rolling his eyes. “I have a lead on my brother. It’s one of the best ones I’ve received since I’ve been in L.A. So far everything has checked out on it.

“Oh Wes, man. I, uh…wow man.” Gunn stuttered, ‘Not expecting that.’ He thought to himself, noticing the similar looks of disbelief on everyone’s faces he almost laughed, ‘Guess no one expected that one either!’

“I need to leave immediately –” Wes started, but Angel cut him off.

“Of course Wes! Do you need anything? Us to go with you? Anything?” Angel interrupted as everyone else nodded their agreement. They stuck together, no matter what.

“No. I can handle it. You don’t have to worry or anything.” Wes argued softly, this wasn’t their search, what right did he have to ask them to disrupt their already chaotic lives to come on a trip and hold his hand. He didn’t.

“Wes, man you can’t go alone. What if something happens?” Gunn asked thinking up any situation he might be useful in, “What if you need back up?” he asked knowing Wes was a capable fighter, he didn’t want to come right out and say, ‘What if you need us?’ He stood making a decision and hoped for the best, “I should go with you!” he declared shooting a quick glance at Fred and seeing her nod slightly. “When do we leave?” he asked in a tone that let Wes know that there would be no arguing about him going alone. He was going, end of story.

“Gunn…” Wes started and then stopped when he encountered the man’s determined gaze. He could always leave an hour before he was telling Gunn. No harm in that right?

“Wes, you my boy. When do we leave?” Gunn repeated, while thinking ‘And don’t even try that I’ll just leave an hour earlier crap buddy.’

“At 9:30 tonight. After traffic has died down. It’ll take about 15 hours to get there. That way we can drive through tonight and get there tomorrow evening.” Wes said, actually planning on leaving at 7:30 that night.

“Great. I’ll go pack. Cordy can I talk to you?” Gunn asked smiling, dragging Fred with him, “He’s up to something. I know it. Sneaky bastard. I bet he’s going to try to leave early.” Gunn informed them still smiling, knowing Wes could see them and Angel could hear them.

“Angel,” he directed at the eavesdropping vampire, “keep him here.” When Angel told Wes to hold Connor for ‘just a sec’ Gunn knew he’d heard. “Okay Cordy you have to make sure Wes doesn’t leave. He doesn’t want us to worry or whatever so he’ll try to go off on his own. Don’t let him. I have to run home and pack I’ll be back as quick as I can.”

“What about me?” Fred asked wanting to help, there had to be something she could do.

“I think you should come help me pack. Or something.” Gunn grinned devilishly at his girlfriend.

“Charles!” she sighed exasperated, though she quickly began pulling him towards their rooms. “We’re going to get him packed.” Fred informed the group blushing when she realized they were all staring at her practically yanking Gunn along after her.

[TatiLoca]

Jen - My thoughts exactly, he'll realize it soon enough. As for the Connor thing, not sure yet. Hope you like this Fred too, And thank you!
pandas2001 - Thanks! Here's the next part.
Tara - soon enough?
tiredmuse - the reunion is definitely coming up.
Dream_walker - Thanks, I hope this is up to par.
VanilCoke - Thanks! Here you go.

<center> . : : IV : : . </center>

“I’ll miss you.” Fred whispered against Gunn’s chest sometime later. She never tired of being held by him, ‘He’s so strong, gentle, all male.’ She grinned at the thought, the strength of a warrior, but so gentle when loving her.

“I’ll miss you too.” Gunn whispered back kissing her hair. “Come on. I know Wes, he’s gonna try to sneak off without me. I better get over to his place.” Gunn sighed not wanting to let Fred very far from him. How he could be so addicted to her was mind-boggling. They were completely different, but at the same time so the same.

“Get moving then!” Fred ordered smacking his bare ass playfully as she slipped his shirt over her head. She loved wearing his shirts to bed, being surrounded by his smell. Then while he was off helping save people she would pull on a shirt and wait for him, being calmed by his scent until he was back with her.

“Woman!” Gunn yelped, “You’re lucky I have to pack or else…” he trailed off suggestively, then rubbed his stinging, well formed tush. “Ow.” He muttered pouting as he stood there searching for his clothes. Looking at her in his shirt he wanted nothing more than to stay with her, in their room, at least until it was time to eat.

“Aw, want me to kiss it better?” Fred offered giggling at his shocked expression. She felt so free when she was with him. She didn’t have to be super-smart bookish Fred, she could just be herself. Just Fred.

“No! Uh, that’s okay…I have to go!” Gunn shouted running to the bathroom. That woman, all innocence and tempting would be the death of him.

“Tease!” she called after him, laughing. She loved being able to be herself with him. She didn’t have to pretend with him, he’d still loved her anyway.

Getting dressed, she decided to keep his shirt on, it made her feel surrounded by him. Seeing him creep out of the bathroom, Fred stifled a snort, “You can come out I won’t take advantage of you.” She promised seriously as possible.

He mumbled something that sounded like ‘Wicked woman’ under his breath before approaching her. “You,” he told her pulling her into his arms, “are full of surprises. Wicked surprises. But still surprises.”

“Only for you Charles.” She told him kissing him softly, “I’m really going to miss you.” Fred scolded herself for sounding so needy. She wanted him to know she was strong and could be independent now, that she wasn’t some pathetic girl who needed him with her constantly.

“I’m really gonna miss you too.” Gunn said pulling her tighter into his embrace. Playful one minute, emotional the next, damn he loved every facet of her personality. “So you won’t take advantage of me? I thought that’s what you did earlier.” He said biting his lip at her blush.

“Let’s get you packed.” Fred said refusing to rise to the bait, “We’re running out of time as it is.”

Nodding, Gunn began sorting through his clothes, wondering what do you take to help your bestfriend try to find his missing brother?

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Over at Wes’ apartment, Wes is trying to on what Cordy has been saying, but he tuned her out several minutes ago. Keeping the cordless phone between his ear and shoulder he carefully balanced his bags and went to load up his car.

Cordy of course knew he wasn’t really listening and had just been talking to distract him from his attempt to leave without Gunn. “Did you remember to pack a pair of casual slacks and a tie?” she asked while waving good-bye to Gunn. Seeing him and Fred together was so sweet, at least until they started bumping uglies. Now it’s sweet until one of them drags the other away, you have to be careful not to look or you’ll see more than you bargained for. Though Gunn does have nice assets… Angel screaming he was blind was hilarious though. Serves him right for not knocking.

“Yes.” Wes said while trying to close the trunk without alerting Cordy to what he was doing. “I remembered to pack a suit. And the emergency kit, water, snacks, extra batteries, spare tire, jack, and flare gun you told me too. It’s not like I’m going camping Cordy. It’s just Roswell.

“What about-” she started but he already knew where she was headed.

“The weapons, holy water, stakes, and crosses? I remembered those too. I have a crossbow, a sword, and a tranquilizer rifle. Don’t worry I’m prepared.” He assured her gently, Cordy may seem vapid and shallow to some people in the past, but she was very loving when you got passed her defenses. Wes began his trek back into his apartment, completely missing the person who’d been watching him, waiting for the chance to sneak into the car.

“I’ll see you okay Cordy?” Wes asked, not wanting to outright lie, by saying he’s see her later on.

“Sure Wes. Finish getting ready. Maybe you and Gunn can take off early?” Cordy asked innocently, knowing Wes was about to leave without him.

“Bye Cordy.” Wes said not answering her question. “Don’t forget to water my plants.”

“I’ll remember. Bye Wes.” She smirked thinking he was in for a surprise. Family was family after all, no one was alone, abandoned or left behind. Too bad Gunn was the only one getting to go on the mini-vacation too. “I wonder if they’ll meet any aliens?” she laughed to herself, continuing up the stairs to check on Connor…and Angel.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

After scanning the area for possible witnesses, Wes climbed in the car ready to leave for Roswell at just before 7:30 that evening. Promising himself he’d call Gunn at the hotel once he was safely on his way out of L.A., he started the car.

“Leaving already?” Gunn asked grinning from his spot in the backseat. Oh yeah, he was good. Good thing he’d made a copy of Wes’ car keys awhile ago, he hadn’t had to waste time picking the lock.

“Shit!” Wes swore, glad he hadn’t pulled into traffic yet, that could have definitely caused an accident. “Gunn? What are you doing here?” he asked shocked. Checking his watch showed it was indeed 7:30, making Gunn two hours early. He was supposed to pick him up at 9 that night.

“Going to alien town. With you.” Gunn told him climbing into the front. “You weren’t going to leave me were you?” he asked feigning innocence. “Cause I said I was going with you and I meant it. You my boy Wes, I got your back, just like you got mine. Right?”

“Uh, right?” Wes smiled tightly, knowing he was busted. ‘Damn, Gunn probably has some tortuous plan for revenge already waiting to be put into action.’

“R i g h t.” Gunn said settling in, “Just for that, now you have to buy me the chimichanga combo when we stop at Taco Fiesta. I was going to be happy with just the chimichanga by itself.” He informed Wes in a primly. “Anyway. Next time you feel the need to spare me a road trip by being a sneaky bastard, I’m kicking your skinny British ass. Got me?”

“Yeah, I got you alright.” Wes mumbled, “ This is going to be a long trip.” He sighed under his breath pulling away from the apartment. He supposed it was his own fault for not listening, besides company would be nice. He just didn’t want anyone to feel obligated to go with him.

“Damn straight it is.” Gunn agreed. “I can’t believe after all that we’ve been through, you were gonna leave me behind. What does that say about our relationship Wes? Where is the trust? The mutual understanding and respect?”

Rolling his eyes Wes already regretted trying to spare his friends the chaos of his search, apparently they wanted to be included. He mentally groaned at Gunn’s speech, of course that would be his punishment. He could be such a drama queen at times.

“Are you listening to me?” Gunn asked noticing Wes did not appear to be listening, “I know you are not ignoring me.” He continued going on about their relationship while internally gloating, ‘Oh yeah, Cordy was right. Payback is sweet!’

[TatiLoca]

Jen- that's one of the absolute nicest things I've had about a fic
pandas2001- answers to come
muse- I've always loved a more loving but still completely Cordy, Cordelia too.
Dream_walker- Thank you too!
force - Thank you and I will continue
Vanilcoke- Thank you! I'm glad! And I will/did!

Huge thanks for f/b and bumps! Life has been hellish! Sorry it's short.

. : : V : : .

Back in Roswell, the gang was at the Crash Down, just not together. Kyle, Alex, Tess, and Liz sat in a booth laughing and talking; Michael was finishing his shift behind the grill; Maria was in the middle of her shift complaining to anyone that she was closing that night, alone, she’d stress glaring first at Michael then at Liz. Isabel sat across from her brother attempting conversation as he glared across the diner at Liz, Alex, and Tess.

“So what movies did we decide on?” Kyle asked. He noticed Jose was now in the kitchen and knew Michael would be right out.

“Toss up between Lethal Weapon, all four, Matrix 1 and 2, or the variety Liz and Tess have picked out which includes Grosse Pointe Blank and Death to Smoochie.” Alex informed him. He shifted slightly in his seat and his leg brushed against Tess’, both froze at the contact. “Sorry.” Alex mumbled blushing slightly.

“It’s okay.” Tess murmured back, eyes focused on her lap. For some reason she felt awkward around Alex. Maybe because he had seen her outburst after prom, or maybe because he treated her like a person. A female person. With Kyle and the sheriff she was family, with Liz she was starting to become good friends, but with Alex she felt like a girl. A silly, shy girl completely unused to attention like his. Sure guys had looked at her before, but always like a piece of ass. Alex looked at her like she was special, like she mattered.

“At least they didn’t pick out some lame chick flick.” Michael grunted as he threw himself into the booth next to Liz. “Hey.” He greeted nodding to everyone.

“The cat stands tall and green / Well, he ain't no prize, and there's no women his size / And that's why the cat's so mean,” Kyle sang once Michael was settled.

“Jolly Green Giant, The Kingsmen, 1964.” Alex announced after a moment of confused silence.

Puzzled Michael looked around only to have Liz point out he was wearing all green. “Aren’t the other dwarves expecting you home soon?” he growled.

Kyle smirked, “I’ll head home when you hand over Snow White.” He may be in remedial science, but Kyle was far from dumb. He’d seen all the signs, had seen them for years. He began humming the familiar tune, ‘Someday my prince will come…’, and Alex chuckled.

“What are you babbling about Valenti?” Michael asked irritated, it didn’t help that Maria had been alternately shooting him angry glares followed by wounded stares. Then there was Max, his ‘fear-less leader’ who looked like he wanted to hurt, if not kill everyone at the very table where Michael now sat.

“Duh Michael, he’s talking about Liz.” Tess rolled her eyes at the male denseness she was surrounded by. As Liz blushed, Kyle and Alex laughed while Michael just looked lost. Tess took a moment to absorb the moment, it was all new to her. She’d never had friends to laugh and joke with and in that moment she realized a part of what she missed.

“Stuff it Tattoo. Let’s go, Braveheart awaits.” Michael stood and pulled Liz from the booth, he accidentally shoved in Kyle’s chair knocking the air out of him.

“Michael we’re not watching Braveheart again.” Liz informed him, not realizing she hadn’t let go of his hand. The preceded the group out as Michael tried explaining to Liz how vitally important it was for them to see Braveheart again. Reaching his bike he tossed her helmet to her and waited for her to get on.

Shaking his head Alex offered Tess his arm, “Shall we?” he grinned at her pleased when she took his arm and grinned back.

“We shall.” Gathering her purse she held her other arm to Kyle, “Come on brother Michael and Liz probably don’t even realize we aren’t with them.” Another rare, but more frequent grin covered Tess’ face.

“Alright sister.” This time Kyle shook his head, soon it would be official. Buddha save him. “Lemme guess I’m driving right? Why do I always have to drive?” he grumbled as Tess dragged him out the door, “Next time someone else is driving, Bambi needs to rest.”

-----------------------------------------------------

As the friends left the Crash they failed to notice a car pull up grateful for the free parking spot. The two travelers emerged, one more weary than the other, and entered the café.

Staring at the colorful décor Gunn couldn’t help but laugh. “Fred would’ve loved this!”

“Cordy would hate it.” Wes added. The two exchanged looks and grinned. Next time it would definitely be a group trip.

“Welcome to the Crashdown, I’m Maria would you prefer a booth, table, or the counter?”
[/b]