Borrowed Heaven (AU,M/L,TEEN/MATURE) [COMPLETE] 11/24/04

[Behrsgirl77]

A/N Just a few quick words for some of you who may be feeling Max has yet to prove his worth or whatever...

Maybe this will help you understand where I'm coming from. If it were me in this instance I would not forgive him or ever trust him again. However I try and write stories that come from different perspectives; not just the "oh he's a scum bag he doesn't deserve her trust blah blah blah" Taking that into consideration and the fact that some people react the same way and others completely different, for some people all the other person has to say is sorry and bam! They are forgiven, for others it takes more. But I am not one to say when a person has proven themselves; I think it's up to each individiual and what they can live with in their lives. For me nothing would make me forgive and forget but let's say for my best friend he says he's sorry and he regrets it and for her that's good enough. I don't think there is one right answer or one right opinion or emotion for that matter. Hope that helps a little in explaining what I'm trying to show. Not to say that all is forgiven just like that either

I think I have rambled enough...so yeah here's the next part!

Thanks for much for the f/b guys!

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Lurkers


Chapter 20



The next day Max and his mother headed out early to see Mr. Johnson who was very eager to get the meeting over with. Max decided to leave Kylei with Serena since they would only be gone about two hours and trying to have a serious discussion was kind of difficult with a baby on your lap. During that time Max closed the diner since there wouldn’t be enough people around to handle the customers.

Serena was currently sitting upstairs in the living room playing with Kylei. She just finished talking to Kyle on the phone and he was on his way over with a few movies to for them watch later tonight. There was knock on the door and she knew it couldn’t be Kyle already.

She rose to answer the door and when she swung it open she was surprised to say the least to see who was standing at the other end of the doorway.

“Liz.” Serena pulled the petite girl into a quick hug.

“Hi.” Liz said shyly as she entered the living room.

“What are you doing here? I thought you would be gone for a few more days?” Serena asked closing the door and waiting for Liz’s response.

“I was going to but there wasn’t anything there for me, so I finished what I needed to get done early and wanted to surprise Max.” Liz smiled and walked around the couch. That’s when she spotted Kylei and a smile full of happiness made its way across her face. That look did not go unnoticed by Serena.

“He will be pleasantly surprised when he gets home.”

“Home? He’s not here?” Liz said a little disappointed.

“No he and Diane went to talk to this man who’s looking to buy the diner.”

“I didn’t know they were selling it?” Liz said a little saddened that Max had not mentioned it, but figured it was because of everything else that was going on.

“Yeah well ultimately it’s Max’s choice since uncle Phillip left the business to him, but aunt Diane wants Max to sell it. She doesn’t want him to be stuck here you know?”

“Yeah I know.” Liz decided that she needed to talk to Max about where they were headed. Liz was broken from her thoughts when Kylei spotted her and crawled quickly to Liz’s feet.

“Hi sweetie! Did you miss me?!” Liz said as she effortlessly lifted Kylei into her arms. Kylei threw her small arms around Liz’s neck and placed a kiss on her cheek.

“She’s amazing isn’t she?” Serena said taking a seat on the nearest couch. Liz joined her with Kylei on her lap.

“Yes she is.” Liz said in awe while she ran her hands down the little girls back.

“That’s not what I mean Liz.” Serena decided it would be time to talk to Liz about what she thought was going on with Kylei.

“What do you mean then?” Liz was a little confused she hoped that Serena explained it a little better.

“I mean she has never known what it’s like to have a mother. Hell her own mother never even held her once. But with you it’s like she knows what a mother is, I’m not sure I’m explaining myself very well here. It’s kind of hard to explain.” Serena was frustrated because for the first time ever she could not get her words out correctly.

“I know what you mean. I felt it the first time she looked at me. Like she knew something was missing but she didn’t know what until…” Liz stopped. She knew she was analyzing things too much.

“She saw you.” Serena finished.

“Yeah.” Liz said letting out a breath she didn’t know she was even holding.

“That’s just crazy.” Liz decided they were both talking crazy now.

“No it’s not Liz. Children are smarter than most people give them credit for. I don’t think anyone can explain it, but it’s just like when they know something is wrong. It’s weird but I believe it. I see the way she looks at both you and Max when you’re together. She knows Liz.”

“Knows what?”

“That you love her.” Serena answered simply.

“I do more than I thought possible and she’s not even mine.” Liz said leaning over and placing kisses on top of Kylei’s soft curls.

“She may be one day.” Serena said and Liz’s head snapped up quickly, but before she even got to say anything the front door swung open to reveal Max and his mother.

“Liz?”

“Hi Max, Diane.” Liz rose quickly from the couch pressing Kylei close to her chest.

“Hi Liz. Well Max I’m tired maybe you should just not open the diner today. I think I need a nap and Serena don’t you have a date with Kyle or something?” Diane didn’t even try to hide the fact that she was trying to give Max and Liz some time alone. Serena simply played along.

“Yes actually I was on my way over the Kyle’s once you guys got home.” Which was a total lie because Kyle was on his way over.

“Alright you two we’ll see you later.” Diane and Serena exited the living room quickly. Liz and Max had yet to say another word they just stood there staring at one another that is until Kylei reached out for Max.

“Hi pumpkin! I missed you so much!” Max lifted his daughter and placed kisses all over her face. He hated being away from her for longer than a few minutes at a time. He knew he would have to learn to let go eventually, but for now he could keep her around him at all times and he loved it.

After setting Kylei back on the floor they both watched as she crawled in front of the television to chew on one of her toys and watch the cartoons currently gracing the television screen.

Max quickly stepped up to Liz and wrapped his arms around her. Liz stood on her tiptoes and lifted her hands around his neck. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She missed him so much.

“What are you doing here? Are you okay? I thought you weren’t coming back for a few days?” Not that Max was upset that she was there, but he wondered what happened. Liz pulled out of his embrace and guided him over to the couch. Once Max was seated Liz sat down in his lap and Max quickly wrapped his arm around her waist.

“I’m fine. I needed to see you and Kylei. I missed you. I finished what I needed to get done yesterday after I talked to you and called the airport, so here I am!” Liz said smiling.

“Here you are.” Max smiled at her and ran a hand through her soft hair. He then pulled her into another hug; he wanted to hold her forever. She felt so perfect in his arms.

“Where were you?” She pretended not to know. She didn’t want him assuming that Serena told her everything. Max pulled away and looked into her eyes.

“Actually my mother and I went to a meeting with a potential buyer for the diner.”

“You’re going to sell it?”

“I don’t know. My mom wants me to but because my father left it to me I feel like I can’t just sell it to the highest bidder.” Max finished sadly.

“I can understand that. But why does your mom want you to sell it?” Liz figured she’d go the most direct root and find out the reasons why Diane, who after all knew her husband better than anyone, would ask her only son to do such a thing.

“She feels like I’m wearing myself down and that I’ll be stuck here forever if I don’t sell it. She wants me to go back to school and do whatever I want to do. But I don’t know if I can do that in good conscious.” Max spoke honestly.

“And what will your mother do if you sell the diner?” Liz wanted all the facts before she gave her opinion to Max. This was important and needed to be handled with great care.

“My father and her were going to retire in Boston once I graduated college. She wants to go to Boston. That’s where they met and fell in love. So I told her to go, she won’t though not if I don’t sell. I feel like I’m betraying my father all the while letting my mother down in the process.” Max adverted his eyes elsewhere. Liz quickly framed his face with her tiny hands and willed him to look at her.

“No Max your mother loved your father with every fiber of her being. She’s knows your father Max, she knows what he wanted for you. If she feels its okay to let go, then maybe you should too. You owe your father that.”

“What Liz? What do I owe him because I don’t know anymore what’s right and wrong?” Max pleaded with her to help him see what he was missing.

“Your father worked hard and wore himself out for the both of you. I bet he never regretted it, so long as he saw you and your mom’s happy faces. He was a happy man Max, he may have died too young but he lived a full life and I bet he had no regrets. He never got to see his granddaughter, but because of him his granddaughter can see the world. She can be anything she wants to be and you know why?”

“Why?”

“Because of you Max. Because you love her just as your father loved you and you would give her anything in your power that you could. I know it seems wrong and I know that he left it to you, but he also in doing so left you with a choice. If you want to keep the diner…keep it, but you have to let your mother go. She needs to be at peace Max and staying here is a constant reminder of what she no longer has.” Liz was practically in tears watching the emotions play across his face.

“My dad.” Max was in tears listening to Liz’s words. He knew she was right he knew that she understood him.

“Yes. Baby you love Kylei the way you do with your whole heart because of your father and your mother. You saw the love they had for one another and that taught you…prepared you to love your daughter just the same. I know it’s hard to let go but sometimes it’s easier than holding on.” Liz finished and wiped away the tears that fell across Max’s cheeks. Then she leaned in and kissed his mouth softly. She could taste the saltiness from his tears mixing with her own.

“Thank you Liz.” Max pulled away to look in her eyes and then he pulled her closer for another kiss. He wrapped both hands around her and covered her soft lips with his. He loved the taste of her kisses. Liz slowly slid her tongue across the bottom of his lip and he opened up for her. She loved the feel of being in his arms and the taste of him. He consumed her.

The broke away panting for air a few minutes later and Liz rested her head against his chest. She loved hearing the sound of his heart beating quickly knowing it was because of her that it was.

“What are you doing today?” Liz asked him while watching Kylei on the floor still playing.

“Spending it with you.” Max smiled and placed a kiss on her temple.

“Good, there’s someplace I’d like to take you.” Liz smiled and rose off his lap making her way over to Kylei.

“What are you doing?” Max asked when Liz picked Kylei up in her arms.

“Getting her dressed because you Max Evans have a date…with me.” Liz said with a big smile, turned and walked towards Kylei’s bedroom without another word leaving a very stunned Max in her wake.

TBC...

[Behrsgirl77]

A/N - This is it guys, this is the last part I have written. Which means I'm not sure if I'll have another post on Wednesday, if not it will definitely be on Saturday.

Thanks for the feedback it is greatly appreciated and makes all the time I spend writing worth it!

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Lurkers


Chapter 21


“Where did that outfit come from?” Max asked as Liz exited the house with Kylei on her hip. Liz looked at Kylei who was wearing an outfit Liz had bought her while in New York. Kylei was wearing denim overalls with a light yellow t-shirt underneath and her white sneakers. Max noticed the overalls had a sun patch across the front of it and that Liz had pulled his daughters hair into a ponytail with yellow ribbons around it.

“It’s just something I picked up for her.” Liz smiled and made her way to stand in front of Max.

“She looks adorable Liz.”

“Thank you.” Liz smiled shyly.

“So Miss Parker where are we headed?” Max asked as they left the house and made their way to the Jeep.

“Actually it’s a surprise but once we get there you’ll know. Now I’d like to drive if that’s okay?” Liz asked him holding out her hand for the keys.

“Of course.” Max said and placed his car keys in Liz’s palm and took his daughter in his arms to strap her in her car seat. They were in the car for a few minutes before Max asked if Liz was hungry.

“Actually I am I think I’ll stop and we can pick up some sandwiches or something on the way, is that okay?” Liz said trying to think of where to stop, then she remembered this great sandwich shop her and Max used to go to all the time in high school.

“Sounds good.” Max settled back against the seat. It felt good to be with Liz again, he was anxious though. He wondered what she wanted to show him.

After picking up some sandwiches and drinks they continued in route of Liz’s surprise for Max. Max still had no clue as to where Liz was driving but decided that he would just stop worrying about it and wait.

About a half hour later Liz shouted, “We’re here!” Max took a look around and at first he wasn’t sure where he was but then it hit him. He turned to Liz and she just smiled and hopped out of the car quickly making her way to the back to pull out the blanket and the food.

They walked up a trail that ended at a landing that overlooked the entire city. Liz always thought it was beautiful from the very first time she saw it. Max placed Kylei down on the blanket in her seat; she had fallen asleep a few minutes ago in the car and should be out for her afternoon nap at least an hour.

“Come here Max.” Liz waited until Max settled his daughter before reaching out her hand to him. It was early in the afternoon, the sun was shining brightly and there was a light breeze in the air. Perfect. That’s what Liz thought it was.

“Yes?” Max asked as he placed his hand in hers and she pulled him flush against her. He looked at her with such love and adoration. He then lifted his hand and moved a few strands of hair away from her face.

“Do you know where we are?” Liz looked into his eyes and took a deep breath. What she had to say to him was important and she didn’t want to mess it up.

“Yes. How could I forget?”

“I wanted to show you this place again Max. After all these years I never forgot what this place means. I know things have happened between us but I wanted to bring you here because this is where we had our beginning.” Liz smiled.

“I know. This is where we first kissed Liz. I was so nervous, I had kissed girls before but you were different, you were special. I pulled you close and looked into your beautiful face and kissed you for the first time. It was…”

“Perfect.” They both finished at the same time.

“All those things I told you yesterday were true. I am scared but I won’t let it hold me back…hold us back.”

“What are you saying Liz?” Max’s heart thumped wildly in his chest. He framed her face with his hands and looked into her big brown eyes and waited…he waited to hear her next words. Hoping, wishing and praying that they were going to be what he had been waiting to hear for so long.

“I love you Max.” Liz said and waited for Max’s reaction. She didn’t have to wait long because Max let out a breath and pulled her close and sealed his lips to hers. He couldn’t help the emotions that were pouring through his veins. He also couldn’t help the tears that formed in his eyes from spilling.

“I waited so long to hear you say that. I love you so much Liz.” Max placed kisses all over her face and embraced her tightly. There were no words to express the happiness he felt.

“Thank you Liz. Thank you for giving me another chance…I just….”

“Just love me forever Max and it will be okay.” Liz said with her own tears shimmering in her eyes. She knew that Max had been waiting patiently for those words but she needed to wait to say them to his face. She needed to see his reaction.

“I will Liz. I will love you for the rest of my life.” Max vowed to her then pulled her down in his lap. He needed to hold her now.

“You okay?” Liz asked when Max sat them down quickly.

“Yes, never better. But I need to hold you now Liz. I need to just be here with you, is that okay?” Liz nodded and rested her back against his chest reveling in the feel of his big warm arms around her.

About a half hour later Liz’s stomach growled and Max had to laugh.

“You hungry?”

“Whatever gave you that idea?” Liz giggled and waited as Max lifted her up and placed her on the blanket as he grabbed the bag of sandwiches.

“Here.” Max handed Liz hers.

“Thanks.”

“So what are your plans for later this evening?” Max asked between bites of his sandwich. Liz pretended to ponder the question.

“Hmm I think my boyfriend is taking me out to dinner and a movie.” Max raised his eyebrow and couldn’t hide how giddy he felt when Liz called him her boyfriend.

“Oh really?”

“Yup!” Liz said without looking up from her food. She would burst into laughter if she did. Instead they both ate in silence and afterwards they sat just talking about Kylei and what she had been up to the last couple of days. Liz was saddened to hear that she woke up so distraught yesterday and upset that she wasn’t there.

“It’s okay Liz. It’s normal you know? I mean I was worried as well but I realized that worse things may happen and to be happy this wasn’t anything serious.” Max tried to comfort Liz. She looked like she had something on her mind.

“What’s wrong?” Max asked just as Kylei awoke. He turned and quickly removed her from her seat and placed her in his lap. She smiled at him shyly and then over at Liz.

“Hey beautiful did you have a nice nap?” Max asked and placed a kiss on his daughter’s head.

“Max?”

“Yeah?”

“Serena said something to me today and well it kind of just stuck with me and I wanted to know what you think about it.” Liz wasn’t sure if she should even talk to Max about anything concerning Kylei but she had to know what he felt.

“Sure go ahead.”

“Well we were talking about Kylei and well Serena said that she knows.”

“Knows?” Max was a little unclear as to what Liz was trying to get at.

“Kylei knows that I love her. I never even did anything to prove it but she still knows.” Liz looked into Kylei’s eyes and saw it again. It was like some sort of recognition.

“Of course she does Liz. Just like she knows I love her. I can’t explain it but she knows I’m her father I can see it when she looks at me. What do you think?” Max wasn’t sure if she wanted him to answer some unasked question.

“I think that for whatever reason from the first time our eyes connected she accepted me into her life. She trusts me and I know that she does. I just I don’t know what that means.” Liz was frustrated she couldn’t figure out what the hell she was trying to say.

“Her mother.” Max said now knowing what Liz was getting at. Liz looked up at him in surprise; he figured it out so she just nodded.

“Liz I know we are just getting ourselves together but I see it too. I know that she senses something about you. She never knew or will know her mother Liz. I can’t give her that. I’ll never be able to answer questions about how her mother was growing up or how similar or different they are because…I didn’t know her mother well enough.” Max finished sadly.

“She will ask me questions and I’ll have to look in her eyes and tell her I don’t know. I won’t ever know and that hurts. She feels something for you that I can’t explain. I mean Serena had seen her more times than you but she was cautious with her, not with you. I saw that right away. I don’t know what you want me to say.” Max finished softly not really understanding where the conversation was going.

“I guess what I’m trying to say is that I don’t know what’s going to happen in the future between us Max. I won’t presume to know either. I only know what I would like to happen but I…I want to be a part of her life Max e-even if we don’t end up together in the end.” Liz finished quickly and turned her face away from Max. Max was blown away by the love Liz had for his daughter.

“Liz I would love for you to be apart of her life and if we do end up where we’d both like to end up, I know she couldn’t have a better mother than you.” Max told her honestly how he felt he just hoped that he didn’t say too much. Liz however needed to hear that from him, she needed to know that he would accept whatever happened between her and his daughter.

“Really?” Liz turned her head to look him in the eyes and smiled.

“Really Liz.” Max smiled back at her and Liz simply crawled over to Max’s side and placed a kiss on his lips. A kiss filled with promises she intended on keeping to both him and Kylei.

“Thank you Max you don’t know how much it means to me to hear you say that.” She said after pulling away slightly.

“Your welcome and I do know Liz so thank you for accepting her into your life, even though she may be a reminder for you of…”

“No! Don’t finish that sentence Max. She is a reminder of the great things that this world we live in has to offer. And I want that Max I want to absorb as much borrowed heaven as I can.” Liz finished softly taking a seat beside Max.

“Borrowed heaven?” Max wasn’t sure what she meant by it but knew that her answer would be good.

“Yes. Do you believe in heaven on earth?” Liz asked him seriously.

“Yes I do. I believe that right now I’m experiencing it.” Max smiled shyly.

“So if you believe that then you believe in a greater being?” Max simply nodded and Liz continued.

“Do you believe that all the beauty, love and pain were created by him for us to experience while we are here?” Max nodded again.

“In that case then you understand that none of this belongs to us. The air we breathe the sky we look up at, the stars we wish upon and the love we get to experience, it’s not for us to take when we pass on. If you’re lucky enough you get to experience all the things he has created but you have to let go because it’s not yours, it’s borrowed. He gives us the opportunity to enjoy everything he has created but when it’s our time we leave it behind and repay him for the opportunities. Some people don’t believe that because life it seems has given them the short end of the stick and they may not get to experience any of the beautiful things life has to offer, but I believe there is a reason for everything and as long as we believe in something then when our time comes we will know it wasn’t all in vain.” Liz wasn’t trying to preach to Max but she wanted him to understand what she meant.

“You know Liz you are by far the most amazing person I know. I know that I have a lot to make up for and I know it’s not going to happen overnight. But just know that I will always be grateful for the kind of heart that you have. I hope I have the rest of my life to prove my love to you, because you deserve it.” At Max’s words, Liz was in tears. Not only from his words, but because she truly believed him with all her heart.

“Liz everything is moving fast so I think we need to just take our time to get to know one another again as much as possible, because I don’t want you to regret any decisions you make about me and being in my life.”

“I know you don’t Max, thank you.” Liz leaned in and kissed Max’s lips softly but before she pulled away Kylei reached her arms out to her and Liz quickly scooped the little girl into her arms.

“Hey sweetie! Did you have a good nap? I bet you did, but you just couldn’t wait to join the fun could you?” Liz lifted Kylei above her shoulders and then pulled her back placing kisses all over her face. Max just watched the both of them interact and smiled, they looked so beautiful together. Both dark hair, dark eyes, pure and beautiful they were the epitome of perfect to Max.

Now all Max needed to do was show Liz how important she was to him, how he would keep his promise to love her forever. A task that would prove to be a challenge because soon both Max and Liz’s pasts will meet up again and this time it will take everything they have to stay happy and together.

TBC…

[Behrsgirl77]

A/N - Now I literally just wrote this part in about an hour so I hope it doesn't suck!...the next part will continue from where this ends. Also, I want to let you guys know that there isn't much left of this story. I never intended it to go past 25 parts, it may very well do that but I don't see it going much more than that. I have been however writing another story, much lighter than anything I've written so far to post when this one is done. I don't know how I haven't gone insane writing 4 stories simultaneously, but this one is just about over so I'll have a *little* free time LOL!


This part goes out to Frenchkiss *muah* I was in the middle of writing this part when I saw your post! Thanks!

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Chapter 22

1 Week Later

Everyone had just finished dinner and Max was currently on the telephone with Mr. Johnson about the purchase of the diner. Max had finally decided that he needed a clean break as well as his mother and finally decided that in order to do so he needed to let go.

It wasn’t an easy decision and he deliberated over it every minute of the day, but in the end it was what Liz had told him that made the decision easier.

Liz however was left with complete uncertainty. Now that she had decided to be with Max she wasn’t sure what else she wanted out of life. She didn’t know what her purpose was or should be for that matter, she just hoped that she figured it out soon enough.

After his telephone conversation Max left his daughter with her grandmother downstairs to spend some time together. With the busy schedule of running the diner, Diane would wear out easily and by nightfall she needed to get some rest.

Max climbed the stairs leading to his bedroom; he knew that Liz had come up a little while ago, saying she wanted to take a shower. When he reached her room however, she was nowhere to be found so he continued onto his room, where he found the window left open.

“Hey.” Max said softly as he watched the love of his life staring up at the stars with a blanket wrapped around her. He could never figure out how she managed to never be too hot even in the middle of the summer.

“Hi, how was the phone call?” Liz asked sitting up a little giving Max room to sit at the edge of the chair.

“It was okay; he made me a very generous offer which I accepted. He wants to close at the end of the summer. He wanted it to be sooner but I just…I’m not ready to walk away just yet you know?” Max finished sadly. He knew the decision was right but that of course didn’t make it any easier.

Liz knew how bad Max felt about it, but also knew that it would be a great opportunity for him and his daughter, as well as his mother. She leaned her hand out for him to take, pulling him closer to her to lay with his back against her chest and her arms wrapped around him.

“I know Max.” Liz said while stroking his hair. She had a lot on her mind and she was trying to divert her attention but was failing miserably.

“What’s wrong?” Max asked knowing that she grew too quiet, too quickly.

“I’m so confused about what I want to do.” Max knew that not only did he need to decide his future and that of his daughters but that being with Liz would also prove to be a challenge. Mainly due to the fact that he had no idea where she wanted to live, he would gladly follow her wherever she wanted but he didn’t know where that was. He decided it was time they had a long overdue talk.

“Did you like New York?

“Yeah I did but it’s different.”

“Different?” Max asked and listened attentively to what she had to say. He loved listening to her talk; it didn’t matter if she was reading the newspaper or the back of a cereal box. He loved her voice because she was so animated.

“I loved it when I first went there. Everything was new and different and big. But I was running away and now that I think about it, it didn’t matter where I went because it would have served its purpose. It helped take my mind off of things going on in my life. When I went back I expected to feel relief but instead I felt empty. Everything I knew there was a lie and…I don’t know anymore what’s real.” Liz was trying her best to express to Max how she was feeling but it wasn’t coming out right because she had so much on her mind, she hoped that by talking to him it would help her. If anyone could make sense of what she wanted it was Max.

Max listened to her and his heart broke a little more, she was so lonely and he left her that way, he would never forgive himself. But he made a promise to himself and to her to not live in the past so he would be there for her now when she needed him. He stood up and reached out his hand to her, which she quickly took. He then took the seat she just vacated and placed her on his lap wrapping the blanket back around her.

“This is real Liz. You, me this moment, it’s all real I know you know that.” Liz leaned back and nodded. She felt so secure in his arms and she loved it. At first she thought opening up her heart to him again would be a mistake but she had to have faith and learn to trust him again which she was doing on a daily basis. They both needed to grow separately before they could be together; Liz believed that with all her heart.

“You’re right it is.” Liz tilted her head back to look him in the eyes. Max looked down on her beautiful face and couldn’t help what came next. He ran his hands through her hair and cupped the back of her neck. He then sealed his lips with hers, and couldn’t help the small moan that escaped. Over the past week they had shared many kisses, some heated some less but just as passionate. They reacquainted themselves with each other with every touch. They were consumed by one another.

Their kiss grew deeper; Liz had almost completely turned in Max’s arms and had wrapped her arms around his neck. Their lower bodies were grinding against one another as their tongues swiped across one another, over and over creating a delicious friction. Moments later they parted and rested their foreheads against each other and smiled at how quickly they lost control. That was becoming a habit and they knew it but they were defenseless to stop it from happening. Liz knew that she was ready, she always had been when it came to Max, but he always put the breaks on wanting to protect her, for which most of the time she is grateful for and others like at that moment she was screaming inside from the torture.

Max decided that they really did need to finish their conversation so he pulled away and helped Liz back into her position and began where he left off.

“Did you like your job there?”

“Yeah it was great!” Max could hear the happiness in her voice and it made him smile. He loved to see her happy and her face light up. Which is exactly what he hoped to do next month for her twenty-first birthday.

“What did you do, I know you worked in a museum but what did you do there?” Max was curious as hell at this point.

“It wasn’t that exciting but it was so much fun for me. I was a tour guide. I know that doesn’t sound that great, but when the children would come in from the schools and they would ask me questions and I would see their face light up it made me so happy. I mean I’m not a teacher or anything but I felt like they were hanging on every word I said, like what I said made a difference.”

“It does.” Max said before he realized that those words slipped from his mouth.

“Thank you.”

“It’s the truth.”

“You could still do that Liz. I mean there are museums everywhere.” Max was trying to let her not forget that New York wasn’t the only place for her if she so chose.

“Yeah but do you think that’s stupid?”

“No! It’s what you enjoy. Liz most people work everyday of their lives and are not happy with their jobs. That’s pretty amazing to me to be able to do something that makes you happy for a living.” Liz knew Max was right, he after all may have loved his father but that didn’t mean that he loved his job of running the diner that she knew for sure.

“Yeah you’re right. Besides I want to be able to have a job that I’m not tied down to so that later on when I start a family I can be home with them.” Max grew still and silent at Liz’s words. He was hoping no praying to anyone who was listening that she was referring to a family with him, but he didn’t hold is breath. He would give her time.

“Exactly.” He stated simply because his mind was now preoccupied with other thoughts. Liz turned slowly to look up at his face and saw the look that crossed his face and decided that she should tell him what’s been on her mind.

“Where are you planning on going after you sell the diner?” Liz asked Max warming up into her intended conversation.

“I have been thinking about it and I’m not sure. My mom is of course telling me to go wherever I want but she’s my mom and Kylei’s only grandmother I couldn’t imagine going anywhere too far from her.”

“So why not Boston?” Liz spoke up getting closer to her point. Max grew extremely silent and she knew that her suspicions were right. He was waiting to find out where she wanted to go.

“Liz was there somewhere else you thought you might like to live, go to school or work?”

“Yes but first I want to ask you something.”

“Okay.” Max was unsure as to what Liz was getting at but he would wait patiently for her to get to the point.

“Where do you see yourself in five years?” Max didn’t have to think long about the answer to that question.

“I see myself finishing school and hopefully becoming a journalist, if not just doing something I’m happy with. Most importantly though watching Kylei grow up and start school and be with you Liz.” Max confessed shyly. He didn’t want to tell her too much but he also didn’t want to hold anything back. They needed honesty in their relationship that was what was important after all.

“Max I know you’re waiting to find out where I want to go right?” He just nods knowing that what she said next could make or break their relationship and his heart.

“I want to go with you and I think Boston is a perfect choice.” Liz turned and smiled brightly at Max wanting him to understand that she wasn’t settling she was simply choosing what her mind and heart wanted.

“Yeah?” Max’s face lit up, could it be that she was choosing him? Dare he let himself believe?

“Yeah.” She smiles back at him and places a kiss on his lips.

“I love you so much Liz.” Max said pulling her against him once again, tilting her head up and slanting his mouth over hers. His heart thumping wildly in his chest, he couldn’t believe it. It seemed as though his prayers were being answered.

“Me too Max. I love you so much.” Liz leaned back into Max’s arms once again as he placed a kiss on the top of her head. He wrapped his arms around her tightly and they both closed their eyes knowing that this was the first day of the rest of their lives…together.


TBC…Saturday. I know you guys are waiting for the *drama* it's coming but don't worry it's not *that* bad...trust me you'll actually be quite happy about it!

[Behrsgirl77]

A/N- I know I said that this story would only be about 25 Chapters...well it's going to be a little longer than that. For some reason it's not letting me end it soo...here goes!

Thanks for the great FB!!

Good Morning Tiph!
NewYorker18
FSUMSW94
BelieveInTrueLove
roswellluver
Jason's Lover
OmegaRam1
mmcheron
kay_b
abbs007
begonia9508
QTgirl
Emz80m
Bixie
dreamer19
r0swell dreamer
Dreamer06
linliz68
g7silvers
trueblue - Hi and Thank you!
I am a dreamer
Lurkers

Chapter 23



“So how about some dessert?” They had been sitting in silence for at least twenty minutes just enjoying the feel of being near one another. Max still couldn’t get over Liz’s words moments ago. She wanted to go to Boston with him and Kylei and he couldn’t be happier.

“Hmm that sounds good, how about we take a walk?” Liz rises off the chair and reaches out her hand to him.

“Let’s go.” They make their way inside and grab their jackets along with Kylei’s and head downstairs.

“Have you talked to your parents?” Max asks her as they leave the ice cream shop and make their way to the park. Luckily Max had mastered the art of pushing a stroller and eating ice cream otherwise it would have been a big mess.

“Not since last week.” Liz answers nonchalantly. She wasn’t sure what to tell her parents. She knew they would be upset with her for not going to live with them, but it was her life after all and they needed to respect it.

“How do they feel about everything?”

“Well they were of course upset that Chris cheated on me but they were glad that I found out before I got married.” Liz didn’t want to talk about Chris anymore, as far as she was concerned he was her past and Max was her future. As much as she told herself that she just couldn’t wrap her mind around one thing.

“Married.” Liz stopped in her tracks and turned to face Max who was a little startled by her abruptness.

“What?”

“Sorry. It just still blows my mind that I was willing to sacrifice true happiness for him. He was so not worth it and I don’t know why I didn’t see it sooner.” Liz said taking a seat on the nearby bench and waited until Max pushed Kylei in front of her and took a seat beside her.

Max had wanted to ask her what happened with Chris but wasn’t sure if this was the right time or not. They were doing so well he didn’t want to upset her but he realized the only way to get past it was to ask…so he did.

“I found him in bed with another girl.” She finished sadly. And Max wanted to kick himself for hurting her. What he didn’t know was that Liz wasn’t upset with finding her fiancé in bed with another girl. No Liz was upset because that other girl was Tess Harding.
“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have asked.” Liz could hear the remorse in his voice. She knew he didn’t ask her to hurt her he was simply curious.

“It’s okay Max just because I may not want to talk about it or I might get upset about it doesn’t mean that I want you to stop asking questions.”

“Okay, and I will tell you that I know the first time I overreacted but you can too Liz. You can ask me anything and I will never lie to you…ever.” Max finished sincerely looking Liz right in the eyes.

“I know you won’t Max.” They smile at one another for a moment before Kylei decides she wants some attention and some ice cream.

“Oh honey, you feel left out don’t you? Well let’s see I know your daddy isn’t going to be happy about this but…”

“Ah Liz?”

“Yeah?”

“She’s already had ice cream.” Liz’s jaw drops she couldn’t believe it. She figured Max was by the book when it came to his daughter but she was happy to find out he wasn’t. It took some pressure off her.

“So what kind is her favorite?” Liz asked placing her ice cream cone near Kylei’s mouth so the little girl could get a few small nibbles in.

“Vanilla.”

“Really?” Something inside of Liz tightened at Max’s words. It wasn’t anything that significant but it made Liz really giddy inside knowing that she and Kylei shared the same love for ice cream…and men.

“Yes. Trust me I tried to steer her towards chocolate but she wasn’t having it.” Max joked seeing the serious look crossing Liz’s face.

A few minutes later Kylei was wearing most of the ice cream as well was Liz.

“Time to get you guys washed up, can’t take you anywhere.” Max smiles and Liz just glares at him and they both burst out into laughter. As not to feel left out Kylei claps her hands together and giggles.

After heading back home Liz decided she wanted to give Kylei her bath for the night, Max of course didn’t mind at all. He enjoyed watching Liz and Kylei interact.

“Okay sweetie now that you have made a huge mess of your pretty clothes it’s bath time!” Liz carefully undressed the small girl and lifted her in just her diaper and carried her into the bathroom, waiting for Max to follow her.

Liz wasn’t sure what temperature to put the water at or even how to bathe her but she was all too eager to learn. Max turned the water on and explained to Liz how to know when the temperature was right. Then they both kneeled down next to the bathtub and Liz removed Kylei’s diaper and Max placed his daughters tub in the bathtub, then Liz placed her in it.

“Alright now she’ll wobble a little because it can get slippery just make sure if you see her slipping to one side that you grab hold of her.” Liz was nervous she didn’t want to mess up. Max took note of Liz’s expression and reached out a hand to her and then placed a kiss on her temple.

“It’s okay Liz.”

“Right.” Liz didn’t have much more time to think because Kylei started her ritual of splashing the water everywhere and giggling when it caught Liz right smack in the face. Max saw the droplets of water fall from Liz’s eyelashes and couldn’t help but laugh out loud. Usually it was him that was soaking wet after bathing his daughter.

“Oh you think that’s funny cutie?” Kylei just clapped her hands and began splashing the water more. Effectively soaking Liz’s T-shirt.

“That’s my girl!” Max yelled out and Kylei giggled at her father. Max pulled out his hand and grabbed his daughter and pressed his palm to hers.

“Hi-five baby!” Liz couldn’t believe it. Max was just so carefree when he was with his daughter and at that moment she decided that she loved seeing him this way. Being a parent suited him more than he probably knew.

“You are terrible Max. But so cute! Look at the both of you.” Max looked at Liz then at his daughter.

“What?”

“You guys are identical. She is so your daughter.” Max smiled at Liz and then raised his chin proudly.

“Just wait until she grows up. She’ll be wearing her football jersey and watching sports with the best of them.” If Liz didn’t know Max she would have thought he was kidding, but she knew his passion for sports and knew that even though she was a girl his daughter would know everything there is to know about every sport there was.

“I will have to say one thing though Max. Even though you are 100% male testosterone you make sure your daughter looks every bit the girl that she is.”

“Yeah well she’s beautiful and I don’t want to take away from that. I love it because she just always looks so adorable to me. I mean whether she’s in a dress or a pair of overalls she’s my little girl and I know I’m probably being biased but I know when she grows up she will be gorgeous.” Max finished boasting about his daughter. He loved her more than anything…even Liz and he knew how blessed he was to have her.

“You’re not being biased Max. First of all you are gorgeous and I knew that any children you had if they looked even remotely like you they would be beautiful. But it’s just amazing that she looks exactly like you, I mean you would never know that anyone else was involved in creating her.” Liz felt like maybe now would be a good time to remove her foot from her mouth. Max grew silent and it was mainly because he hadn’t really dealt with the pain of Cassandra leaving he didn’t have time, so he tried not to think about it.

“Alright you want to wash her hair so we can put her to bed.”

“Sure.” They continued in silence only speaking when Max was instructing Liz on what to do. They finished shortly thereafter with Liz carrying Kylei into her room and placing a fresh diaper and pajamas on her and laying her in the crib.

“Goodnight sweetheart. Daddy loves you. Sweet dreams.” Max leans in and placed a kiss on his daughter’s forehead after tucking her in. Liz then leaned in and placed a kiss on Kylei’s cheek and wished her goodnight.

Liz wasn’t sure if she should just leave Max alone and go to her room or if she should stay and talk to Max.

Max knew that Liz was unsure of what happened and he didn’t want that to come between them so he offered his hand and Liz placed hers in it and followed Max into his room.

Max walked silently to his bed, removed his shoes and lay down. Liz followed suit and lay down next to him on the bed. The room was quite until Max began speaking.

“Liz I don’t want you to think I’m mad at you because I’m not. It’s just that when you said that it just reminded me of the fact that, Kylei has a mother that doesn’t want her and it breaks my heart.” Liz already had tears in her eyes from Max’s words. She didn’t know what to say, so she just rolled onto her side to face Max and just listened.

“When Kylei was born it was like taking my first breath and I’ll never forget it. But in doing so it was also the beginning of a new chapter in my life. I knew that Cassandra and I weren’t going to be together but I thought at least we would raise her together. I just… I don’t want the day to come when she looks into my eyes and asks me why her mother…d-didn’t w-want her. I…I don’t want to see my baby ask me why her mother never held her or why she left her.” Max was in complete tears as was Liz. He never shared those thoughts with anyone not even Serena. He didn’t want to voice his biggest fears in raising his daughter aloud because for him the wounds they left were too deep.

“Max she’s not going to care because she will know what it’s like to be loved so much…so thoroughly that she will realize without you telling her. She will know that the only one to loose out is her mother and that Cassandra has to deal with that not her Max. Not Kylei. You love that little girl so much and I know you would die for her without a second thought. She might ask those questions because she’s curious but Max she will never doubt your love for her, it’s just not possible.” How did she know? Max was completely awed by the fact that Liz was able to understand without him voicing his biggest insecurity. That his daughter wouldn’t feel loved enough.

Max cried harder at that point and Liz wrapped her arms around him and held him tightly. She knew how upset it made Max to talk about it, but hopefully in doing so he could begin to heal with her help.

“Max?” Liz asked not removing her arms and at that point Max had his wrapped around her and their foreheads were touching.

“Yeah.” Max answered still sniffling but feeling better.

“Were you happy she was a girl? Or were you hoping for a boy?” Max had to think about his answer because he was never asked that question before. He rolled onto his back taking Liz with him so she laid flush on top of him.

“I don’t know I was just so happy. It’s so hard to describe. It’s like opening a present on Christmas that you didn’t ask for, but when you opened it, it ended up being your most favorite thing because it was a surprise.” Max was trying his best to describe the feeling, but he figured something’s just couldn’t be put into words.

“I didn’t know she was going to be a girl until she was born. I wasn’t hoping for one or the other I was just hoping that everything was okay and that I could be a good father.” Max shrugged a little.

“You are so stop worrying.” Liz smiled down at him and placed a kiss on his lips.

“Thank you for saying that.”

“It’s the truth Max.” Liz grew quite and Max saw the questioning look in her eyes but waited until she was ready to ask whatever it was she wanted.

They adjusted themselves a little and then Liz told Max she would be right back she wanted to get changed. While Liz was gone Max changed into a pair of shorts and a T-shirt and slipped into bed. When Liz reemerged into his bedroom he pulled back the sheets and turned off the light. Max held her closely he could tell she had something on her mind and hoped that she would tell him tonight. If not he would wait patiently.

After a few minutes of listening to each other breathe, their eyes finally adjusted to the dark and they could see one another.

“Max?”

“Yes Liz.”

“Do you want to have more children?”

“Yes I do.”

“Just not right now.” Liz said more as a statement than a question but Max knew she still wanted an answer.

“I could tell you right this moment the answer would be no. I’d like to wait until I at least finish school. But if I found out tomorrow that I was going to have another one I would be ecstatic.” Max hoped that she took it the right way but he honestly didn’t know why she had this line of questioning going.

“Right.” Liz whispered out softly. That was it, he knew there was something just below the surface he just wasn’t catching onto it. Usually Liz would come out and say it already, but it must be important if it’s that hard for her to say, he thought.

Max reached out his hand to caress her face and then ran his hand through her hair. He brought his face within a mere inch of hers before he spoke.

“Baby, just tell me. Or ask me whatever you want. Please.” Max pleaded with her softly he could see the tears shimmering in her eyes and he was prepared to wipe away every last one of them.

“I…it’s stupid.”

“No it’s not and I told you that already. So tell me.”

“When we were dating I always used to daydream about us being together when we got older and h-having kids and I just I wanted that so bad with you.” Max took in a ragged breathe he was practically in tears himself at this point.

“Really?” He just couldn’t believe it.

“Yes. I always thought we would move in together and that we would get married and have children right away…at…at least that’s what I wanted.”

“What about now Liz? What do you want now?” Max waited with baited breath for her answer and he hoped that it was still the same. He wanted that chance to have a full life with her; it’s all he ever wanted.

“I want to be with you. I want to move in together and hopefully one day have children with you Max.” He couldn’t hold his emotions back anymore. He cupped the back of her neck and placed his lips over hers. She quickly wrapped her arms around his neck and closed the distance between their bodies within seconds.

His lips were devouring hers he couldn’t get enough. She opened her mouth for his assault and loved every second of it. Their bodies were heating up and the temperature in the room had skyrocketed.

“Max…” Liz panted out when they broke away for air. Max had rolled on top of her and was slowly sliding his hands up the front of her shirt. It had been a long time since he was able to touch her so freely without fear of upsetting her. He cupped her in his palm, which elicited another moan from Liz who was already writhing beneath him.

“Liz.” Max moaned before he covered her lips again in a passionate kiss. Their bodies fell into perfect rhythm. Liz moved her hand to the hem of his shirt and pulled it up; Max lifted slightly making it able for her to slip the shirt over his head. When his hard body came into contact with her chest Liz let out another moan. Each time she moaned his name Max’s heart began to race faster and faster. He loved his name on her lips and made a silent promise to continue to hear that for years to come.

Liz couldn’t get close enough and Max could hear her whimper beneath him. He rose up to his knees and lifted her shirt up over her head and then she quickly removed her bra letting it fall to the floor. Liz then sat up and ran her hands down Max’s well sculpted chest, Liz took in his appearance, the feel of his tight rippled muscles and his hot skin. She leaned in and took one of his deep brown nipples into her mouth, and Max loved the feeling of her lips on his body.

He quickly placed his hand at the back of her neck aiding her movements. She swirled her tongue over the now ridged peak and Max was using all of his control not to take her like he wanted to. He removed her head and when she looked up at him he quickly took her lips in his mouth once again and laid them back down.

Max kissed a trail of fire down her neck and in between the valley of her breasts, her breath was erratic and a fine sheen of sweat was forming on both their bodies. But they were defenseless to stop. When Max took one of her nipples into his mouth Liz’s entire body tensed up and then Max felt it completely relax. She trusted him with her body and he felt his love for her grow by the minute.

Liz couldn’t take it anymore she needed to feel him so she reached between their writhing bodies and felt his desire in the palm of her hand. Max had to pull his lips away harshly to moan at the feel of her tiny hands against his body.
The fog however was lifting and Max knew things were going too far and if they didn’t stop now, they would cross the line that he wasn’t sure they were ready for.

“Liz.”

“Max…” Liz moaned out.

“Liz, we have to stop.” Max rolled off of her and laid on his back trying to get his breathing back to normal.

“Why?” He could hear the disappointment but he didn’t want their first time together be about lust…he wanted it in love.

“Liz I want you…you have no idea how bad I want you right now. But not like this Liz. I want to make love to you.”

“We were…” Max silenced her with his finger pressed gently against her swollen lips.

“No Liz I love you…and you love me but that wouldn’t have been making love Liz. I might not know what it feels like but I know what it doesn’t feel like. I don’t want it to be in the heat of passion…not our first time Liz. I want…I need it to be special and right not just for you but for me too.” Liz understood what Max meant. All his life girls treated him like a toy to be played with and put back when they were done, he wanted to know what it felt like to make love for the first time and Liz would wait patiently until Max decided he was ready.

Truth be told she knew Max was physically ready for a sexual relationship but he wasn’t emotionally ready. He was just about there but he needed to feel comfortable and Liz would wait as long as he needed. Because to her just the fact that he was being so cautious and respectful of her feelings showed her that he’s really in it for the long haul and that he will make their first time together as special as it could be and she couldn’t wait until that moment.

“I love you Max.” Liz leaned over and kissed his lips softly before snuggling up to him and falling asleep with a smile across her face.

“I love you too Liz. Sweet dreams.” He kissed the top of her head and quickly fell into a deep sleep with a smile across his face as well.

TBC...

[Behrsgirl77]

A/N - Well I see some of you don't want this to end, but unfortunately it must eventually. Right now though I have the next 2 parts written and it's not the end yet...so all is safe for now! LOL!

I hope you guys are enjoying this as much as I am writing it.

FSUMSW94
Jason's Lover
frenchkiss70 - You never want it to end! LOL!
OmegaRam1
QTgirl - The answer to your question in a few parts
kay_b
Emz80m
Bixie
trueblue
dreamer19
begonia9508
NewYorker18 - Ya like how I put the brakes on...it's fun! LOL!
sunrise102
Dreamer06 - Hmm as far as a guy crying, well not the most masculine thing but when it happens it really touches you...it's very meaningful.
g7silvers
roswellluver
linliz68
abbs007
Lurkers...hmm there is a list isn't there? So off the top of my head...LS and Tiffany! LOL!


Chapter 24

The next morning after having breakfast Max made a decision that he wanted to spend the day with Liz doing something he knew she always wanted to do but never got the chance to. After speaking with his mother and Serena who agreed that they would only keep the diner open until the lunch crowd was over he headed back upstairs to Liz’s room.

“Max?” Michael emerged from the kitchen when he saw Max making his way upstairs.

“Yeah Michael?”

“Can I talk to you for a minute?”

“Absolutely.” Max headed into the kitchen with Michael. It looked like he really needed a friend right now.

“What’s up Michael?”

“I wanted to talk to you real quick about something; I could really use your advice on this one Maxwell.” Max was starting to get worried because of the seriousness in his friends voice.

“Go ahead I’ll try and help.”

“It’s Maria.” Max’s blood started to boil at the thought of Maria causing Michael any more grief.

“What about her?” Max’s voice was tight with anger at that point.

“She just won’t leave me alone. I swear when I leave here and go home, she’s there. When I’m sleeping in the middle of the night, she calls my house. I told her that I didn’t want her that I didn’t want to ever see her again. But she’s not taking no for an answer and it’s just killing me.”

Bitch! Is all Max thought, why couldn’t she just leave well enough alone?

“And what does she say when you tell her that?”

“She says that she’s sorry and that she never meant to hurt me but I don’t give a shit I just want it to go away. I don’t want to think about her anymore and I sure as hell don’t want to see her. But…”

“But what?” Max asked hesitantly.

“I can’t stand it when she cries Maxwell. I know I don’t want to be with her ever again but how do I not get affected? I was in love with the girl for years it just doesn’t go away no matter how much I will it to.” Michael sighed in defeat. Things were not getting better and he didn’t know how to remedy the situation.

Max chose his words carefully. He knew the fragile state of emotions Michael was in and he didn’t want to confuse him more with his words.

“Michael, I know what it’s like to love someone so much that it hurts you more when they hurt. But Maria didn’t love you, I wish it wasn’t true, I wish that she did and I could just say she lost her way but that’s not the truth. You need to let her go and find someone that deserves you Michael. I will tell you that it is so worth the wait.” Max told him sincerely, Michael didn’t deserve the shit Maria put him through and he wanted to see his friend happy.

“I know but…” Max knew there was something else on his friends mind and he had a pretty good idea of what it was, so instead of letting Michael tell him, he decided to voice his thoughts.

“I think it might be better for you Michael if you left before the end of the summer. I don’t want you to go but I don’t want you to have to suffer because of Maria either. It’s not worth it; you need to get on with your life away from here.”

“Thank you Maxwell.” Michael felt a great weight lifted off his shoulders he didn’t want to let Max down but he really did need to get out of Roswell soon.

“No problem, just let me know when you need to leave and I’ll take care of the rest.” Michael simply nodded and went back to work. He knew he was very lucky to have a friend like Max through all these years he had never let him down once and he would forever be grateful for it.

Liz was on cloud nine this morning. She was so happy with the direction her and Max’s relationship was headed. They were open and honest with each other which is all she ever wanted. It wasn’t perfect and Liz knew that but it was slowly but surely becoming everything she dreamed of having with Max.

After taking her shower and getting dressed she decided to head over to Kylei’s room to see if she was still up. Liz had placed her in her crib a half hour ago after having breakfast. When Liz peaked her head in the room sure enough Kylei was standing up rocking against the bars of the crib with a smile across her face when she spotted Liz.

“Hey cutie! Did you miss me already?” Liz walked over and pulled the little girl out of her crib and hoisted her on her hip.

“Hmm why don’t we get you dressed?” Liz turned and walked over to Kylei’s dresser pulling out an oneys and then a cute light blue sundress that was hanging in her closet nearby.

Liz then sat on the floor after dressing her and brushed Kylei’s soft curls into a ponytail and tied blue and white ribbons around her hair. Liz then picked her up and brought her over to the mirror.

“Now don’t you look beautiful? Your daddy is going to smile from ear to ear when he sees you.” Liz placed a kiss on Kylei’s cheek and the little girl turned and placed her arms around Liz’s neck.

“I love you too baby.” Liz whispered to her.

Max watched the entire exchange between his daughter and the love of his life and he knew at that moment he didn’t want to wait forever to be with Liz as a family. He knew that it was still too soon but when the time was right he knew he would ask her to be his forever.

“Hi.” Max said softly as he entered his daughter’s room.

“Oh hey Max. Look who is all dressed up for her daddy.” Liz said turning so that Kylei was now facing her father.

“Hey pumpkin don’t you look so pretty today!” Max’s face lit up and Liz loved seeing him that way. Max reached out his arms and his daughter lunged at him full force wrapping her arms tightly around his neck.

“So are my two most favorite girls in the world ready to spend the day doing something fun?” Liz’s ears perked up, she didn’t know Max had plans for them today.

“Oh really? Where are we going?”

“It’s a surprise Liz, but I can tell you we will be gone all day and I know you’ll love it because it’s something you have always wanted to do.” Max smiled and began to pack his daughters diaper bag. Liz was curious to find out what Max had planned but she could wait. Max had told her to pack a change of clothes just in case because they were going to be traveling a few hours out of town.

After packing up his Jeep being sure to bring Kylei’s playpen they headed off in route for Max’s surprise location.

“Max I…I don’t believe it. It’s so beautiful!” Liz covered her mouth in awe. She had since she was a little girl wanted to ride in a hot air balloon but never got the chance. She turned to Max in the front seat and threw her arms around him placing kisses all over his face.
“Thank you so much! Look Kylei baby the balloons!” Liz was so excited and Max couldn’t wipe the smile off his face. He was glad that she loved it that much.

“Your welcome.” Max said as they exited the Jeep and he unloaded a blanket and Kylei’s playpen. Liz quickly removed Kylei from her car seat and was skipping with the little girl in her arms over to the balloon area.

“Oh look! That one is so pretty Max!” Liz pointed up at one of the balloons and he knew she would love it. It was dark blue and had yellows stars all over it. He came up behind her and wrap and arm around her waist and dropped a kiss on her shoulder.

“I knew you would love that one that’s why that’s the one we are going for a ride in.”

“Really?!” Liz turned around and smiled brightly at Max who simply nodded.

“I can’t wait!” Liz felt like she was five years old again. She always wanted to take a ride on one but was so glad at that very moment that she didn’t. She was all too happy to experience it with both Max and Kylei for the first time.

After their ride they decided to have lunch outside in the park and watch the other balloons be lifted into the air. Kylei loved the ride, as did Liz who still couldn’t stop talking about it.

“I can’t believe it! That was just so amazing.” Liz threw herself into Max’s lap and he quickly laid them down on the blanket to watch the balloons.

“I wouldn’t have known you enjoyed it except for the fact that you said that like one hundred times.” Max joked with her, earning him a small slap on the arm.

“Really Max thank you so much I had a great time.” Max placed a kiss on her lips, “Welcome.”

The rest of the afternoon they spent talking and watching the rest of the balloons be lifted into the air as the sun started to fall they decided they needed to head back home before it got too late.

“So how was it?” Serena asked from the living room couch where she and Kyle just finished watching movie together.

“It was fantastic! Amazing! I loved it!” Liz couldn’t wipe the smile from her face and neither could Max.

“I’m so happy! I wish I wasn’t terrified of heights otherwise I would have done it along time ago.” Serena said while making her way over to Max helping him carrying some of the things inside the house.

“Oh honey there you are! Michael was looking for you he said that he really needed to talk to you.” Diane entered the living room when she heard Liz’s voice. She was glad to see Liz looking happier than ever as well as her son standing beside her.

“There is my sweet granddaughter. Grandma missed you all day!” Diane scooped Kylei from Liz’s arms to hold her granddaughter.

“Alright mom but it’s really late and I have to get her down for bed, I’ll call him in the morning.”

“That’s fine. You opening up tomorrow or do you need me to?”

“No I will.”

“Me too!” Max turned to Liz with a questioning gaze.

“What I want to help! I live here too so it’s only right.”

“Liz you don’t…”

“I know I don’t but I want to. So let’s get this one to bed and we will see you all in the morning.” Liz grabbed Kylei’s diaper bag from Max’s hands and said goodnight while making her way upstairs.

“You done good boy.” Kyle says jokingly to Max while patting him on the back.

“Thanks.” Max smiled and Kyle leaned in and said, “You deserve it.” Max looked Kyle in the eyes and they both understood each other. Kyle knew Max needed all the encouragement he could get and he also knew that telling his friend that was important.

After putting his daughter to bed Max made his way to Liz’s room where she was already tucked into bed with a big smile on her face. He walked over and sat beside her, leaned in and placed a kiss on her lips.

“I love you Liz, goodnight.”

“I love you too Max. Thank you for an incredible day. Goodnight.” Liz leaned up and kissed his lips softly one last time before closing her eyes and falling asleep.

Max sat there for a few minutes longer just watching her sleep and he took that moment to close his eyes and say a small prayer that they will have a lifetime of days like this to come.


TBC…

[Behrsgirl77]

Thanks for the great feedback guys! I totally appreciate it. Just dropping this off and heading to bed...it sucks being sick Hope you enjoy it! I'll be back on Saturday with a new part you have been waiting for


Chapter 25


The next morning had Liz and Max up early bustling downstairs getting the diner ready to open.

Liz decided to put on an apron and help serve. She had never worked as a waitress before so she had no clue as to what to do but Serena was there thankfully to help her on the floor as well as Diane.

Max watched Liz walk from table to table in her tight black jeans and red button down shirt. He didn’t want her to wear a uniform, even though she insisted but Max won out because he pulled the, “it’s my diner and I say so,” card.

Every few minutes they would steal glances at one another and give each other quick pecks on the lips in between her orders. So far she was doing great but of course she only had two tables to work with so it was fairly easy right now.

Max tried to talk to Michael this morning but things had gotten so busy so soon that they hadn’t had one second. Seeing the crowd for the morning dwindling down Max made his way into the back to talk to Michael.

“Hey Michael what did you want to talk about?”

“Maxwell, you need to watch out because I told Maria I was leaving in two weeks and she needed to just leave me the fuck alone, and she just blew up.”

“Blew up? She was pissed I’m sure but oh well.”

“No Maxwell I’m telling you she is out of control she is blaming you for it and well I told her to stay the hell away but I don’t trust her Maxwell. Things are going great for you and Liz and she knows that you guys are dating again.”

“How?”

“I have no idea but she knows.”

“Thanks for the heads up.”

“No problem man. I can’t wait to get away.” Max nodded and then proceeded to speak to Michael about his plans after leaving Roswell.

Meanwhile in the main dining area things were clearing out nicely. Serena and Liz were seated at the counter talking when the bells above the door chimed.

“Where is he?!” Liz almost fell of her stool.

“What are you doing here?” Serena said standing up.

“I’m here to see her boyfriend who managed to fuck up my life!”

“You know what I don’t give shit, get the hell out!” Serena yelled.

“Not until he tells me what he did!” Liz watched in silence. Then closed her eyes and took a deep breath before she slid off the stool to stand before the girl.

“Maria, Max is not going to talk to you so you should just go.” She didn’t want to loose her temper after all there were still customers and it just wasn’t right.

“No! You fucked up my life! I want to see his sorry ass right now!” Maria crossed her arms in front of her chest. At this point Serena was ready to pounce on the petite blonde but Liz stopped her.

“I think you have it all wrong. You fucked up your own life Maria. Stop blaming everyone else! You are pathetic already!”

“I don’t give a fuck what you say! You are a fool! He’s going to cheat on your ass and you’ll have to drag yourself home to mommy and daddy with your tail between your legs!”

“Fuck you! You don’t know shit about me and Max so get over yourself! You can’t handle the fact that you would never…ever be what I am to him! You were kidding yourself all those years Maria, and now you need to wake up from your dream world, because that is the only place he would ever love you!” Liz got up in Maria’s face and shouted. Her blood was boiling at this point, she didn’t want to loose control but how dare she talk about her and Max’s relationship! Oh Liz was fuming and Serena was getting a little worried that fists would be flying soon.

Max and Michael heard the commotion, but Max was startled to hear Liz’s voice enraged. He pushed through the back door with Michael hot on his heels.

“What the fuck is going on?! What are you doing here?!” Max stood between Maria and Liz, but Liz wasn’t having it. She moved back between Maria and Max she wasn’t done yet.

“You asshole! You are making him leave me!”

“No I’m not! You did this to yourself Maria. He told you to leave him the hell alone but you wouldn’t give up!”

“I trusted you as my friend Max and you go behind my back and make Michael leave!”

“No I didn’t! He chose to leave because your psychotic ass wouldn’t leave him alone! Now you need to leave.” Max stated firmly but Maria was not backing down.

“This isn’t over.” Maria looked Liz right in the eyes when she said it. Liz quickly raised her hand but Max was quick to grip her wrist to stop her.

“I don’t believe she did that!” Michael stated after Maria stormed out of the diner.

Diane ran from the back room holding Kylei who as crying hysterically when she heard the raised voices all the way upstairs where Diane was bringing her down from her nap.

“Oh God Max.” Liz turned and rushed over to Kylei and took her from Diane’s arms. Liz cradled the little girl whose tears were falling quickly. Max turned and rushed over to run his hands down his daughter’s back to help calm her down but it wasn’t working.

“Hold her Max.” Liz placed Kylei in his arms and Max quickly walked outside with her trying to calm her down.

“Shh, it’s okay pumpkin. Daddy is here.” Max said while bouncing his daughter against his chest and whispering in her ear to try and calm her down.

After a few minutes Kylei calmed down and was now just sniffling here and there, Liz went outside to stand beside him and Kylei reached out her arms to Liz. Liz wrapped her arms tightly around the baby girl she had grown to love as her own and kissed her temple softly.

“It’s okay sweetheart, your daddy won’t let anything happen to you and neither would I.” Max was at a loss for words at this point. He knew Liz was upset with what just happened but she didn’t let it get in the way of taking care of his daughter. He walked up closer and wrapped his arms around the both of them.

They stayed that way for a few minutes and decided it was time to head back inside. Max asked Liz to take Kylei upstairs and told her he would be there in a little while with lunch for her.

“Max honey what happened?” Diane approached her son who hand sunk himself in one of the booths.

“I don’t know. I mean one second Michael is telling me that Maria is pissed about him leaving and thinks it’s my fault and then I hear Maria and Liz yelling. It was horrible mom. Liz doesn’t deserve to deal with this shit anymore.” Diane reached out her hand and covered her sons with it.

“Max, Liz is a strong girl and I know she doesn’t but it won’t be much longer before we are gone and hopefully Maria will just stay away. I know Liz is upset but it will be okay Max just talk to her and make sure she doesn’t have insecurities about it.”

“I am mom, don’t worry. If there is anything I have learned by being with Liz, it’s that holding things in only makes them worse when they come out. I’m going to get her something to eat and bring it upstairs, can you handle it for about an hour?”

“Absolutely.”

“Thank you.”

Liz was sitting outside on Max’s balcony with Kylei in her lap. She was running her hands across the little girls back. Liz was upset at the way Maria felt like she could just barge in on her and Max’s life and say whatever she wanted.

Liz was so tired of it. They were past it, why did they have to deal with the constant reminder of it? She couldn’t wait until they moved. It couldn’t come soon enough.

“Liz, you okay?” Max said stepping outside with a tray in his hands.

“Yeah I am.”

“Are you hungry?”

“No not really.”

“It’s fruit Liz.”

“Oh well okay I think I can handle it.” She smiled. He knew her so well. He knew that she would refuse to eat but she never turned down pineapples and strawberries.

“You want me to hold her?”

“No it’s okay…unless you…”

“No it’s fine Liz.” Max wasn’t sure what was going on with her now.

“Liz talk to me.” Max pleaded softly.

“I will Max, just let me get it right in my head okay?”

“Okay.”

“So that was interesting.” Liz said before she popped a strawberry in her mouth.

“Yes it was.” Max smiled.

“What?”

“Nothing. It’s just you looked so hot getting all aggressive.”

“Oh really? Hmm so you think I’m hot?”

“Hell yeah Liz.”

“Good to know.” Liz said and winked at Max.

They grew silent after that and Max asked Liz what her plans were for her birthday coming up in two weeks.

“I don’t know. I mean I really should go see my parents but…”

“But what?”

“I don’t want to leave you.”

“It’s okay Liz I mean I’ll still be here when you get back.”

“I know it’s just…I don’t know. We’ll see.” Max didn’t push her further. He knew she was not looking forward to telling her parents of her plans. He knew that she had made her decision and that no one could change her mind, not even him but there was still going to be a confrontation.

“Do you want to watch her? Or I can have…”

“No I’d love to Max, thank you.” Liz smiled brightly at him.

“For what Liz?”

“Just for being you and supporting me and not pushing me.”

“Love you baby.”

“Love you too.” He leans down and kisses her lips softly and then kisses his daughters cheeks before making his way downstairs to finish working.

Liz watched Max leave and she couldn’t help but be thankful for having him in her life again. It was ironic that the one person in the world she had sworn off would turn out to be everything she needed.

Liz knew without a doubt that she could never let Max Evans go again…no matter what.

TBC…

[Behrsgirl77]

Okay I'm back this story just doesn't want to end...but it will..I think LOL!
Just an FYI for those of you who don't know I posted a new story on the AU Board called Confessions of a Bachelorette (could I make the title any longer ?)

Thanks for the great feedback as usual...and *BIG WAVE* to Cherie


Chapter 26

Liz’s birthday was fast approaching, as was the end of the summer. Soon Serena would be leaving then followed shortly by everyone else. Serena and Max hadn’t had time to talk but today Max had talked to Liz who was helping his mother pack, and told her that he wanted to spend sometime with Serena since she would be leaving soon. Liz completely understood of course.

“So what do you feel like eating?” Max asked his cousin as they pulled out onto the road. They were headed to grab dinner.

“I don’t know Max, how about we talk.”

“Sure.”

“What’s wrong?”

“It’s just that it’s almost time for me to head home and then you’re moving. I have had such a great time and well I don’t want it to end.” Max knew she was upset about leaving but something else was bothering her and he suspected it had everything to do with Kyle.

“So what are you and Kyle going to do?”

“I don’t know. We talked about it and he doesn’t want to break up because I guess you could say we are dating but what other choice is there?”

“You could have a long distance relationship until you decide if you want more out of it.”

“I don’t know Max I don’t work well with that.”

“Serena one bad relationship does not forecast your entire future.”

“I know but…” He saw her struggling and that was just not like her at all.

“Tell me.” Max pleaded with her after he pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant he decided they were going to eat at.

“I love him Max. I didn’t think it was possible to fall in love that quick, but it happened and now I’m torn. I don’t want to leave him but I don’t want to stay here either.” Max could sympathize with his cousin but it was ultimately her decision and her mind that she needed to make up.

“You know Serena I wish I could tell you I knew what was best or what you should do but I don’t. I do know someone that could maybe help you out though.”

“Liz.” Serena knew immediately that’s whom he was talking about.

“Yeah. I mean she’s taking a big chance on us and I don’t know what motivates her to make the decisions she does but maybe she could help you.” Max knew if anyone could help Serena with this it would be Liz.

“Okay I’ll talk to her.”

“Good now how about we have some dinner?”

“Sounds great! I’m starving.” Serena jumped out the car and waited in front for Max to follow her.

“So how did it go guys?” Liz asked entering the living room wearing a tank top and shorts. Her hair was up in a ponytail and Max thought she looked too adorable for words. He quickly wrapped his arms around her and placed a kiss on her lips.

“We ate, we talked and now we are tired.” Serena said plopping herself on the couch.

“Well that’s good then. I hear you on the tired part.” Liz relaxed in Max’s embrace.

“Where’s Kylei?” Max asked when he didn’t see his daughter.

“Oh well she’s um…” Max pulled away searching Liz’s face for some sort of clue.

“She’s in the kitchen.” Liz finished quickly and Max walked past her into the kitchen.

“Oh God! What are you doing pumpkin?” Kylei looked up at her daddy with a big smile on her face. She was covered in flour from head to toe. The only part not covered were her eyes, so when she looked up at him she looked like a ghost except for her big bright eyes.

“Max! Honey…”

“Mom what happened?” Max couldn’t keep the smile from forming on his lips.

“She just crawled in here when Liz and I were taking a box down from the closet and well…” Diane threw her hands in the air, what other explanation could she give?

“Oh baby looks like you need another bath.” Max leaned over and picked is daughter to bring her upstairs.

“I’ll come back down in a few and clean this up mom.”

“No I can do it.”

“No mom you did enough today, why don’t you get off your feet?” Diane was grateful to have such a wonderful son who always worried about everyone else. She was glad that he was also finally taking the time to enjoy his life more.

“Okay I will. Goodnight.”

“Night mom.”

After Max gave Kylei her bath he made his way downstairs about a half hour later only to find Liz in the living room with Serena. Apparently they were talking which Max was happy about.

He decided to tackle the kitchen and it was definitely going to be a bitch to clean up all the flour.

“Need some help?” Max turned around from rinsing one of the rags he was using to clean the floor to see Liz in the doorway.

“Nah I got it under control.” Liz nodded and took a seat at the kitchen table.

“So did you and Serena talk?” Max didn’t want to pry or seem like he was nosey but he just wanted to make sure his cousin got some answers to help her out.

“Yes we did. And she came to a decision.”

“Really? That’s great.” Max continued to clean the floor and listen to Liz.

“Yes, she is going to give it a shot with the long distance thing with Kyle. And after a few months if they are still together she’s going to see if he would consider moving out there to be with her. She said that Kyle already said he would do it, that he wanted to but she wants to be sure.”

“I can understand that. He will be changing his life for her and she wants him to be sure she’s worth it.”

“Exactly.”

Liz watched Max for a few more minutes and knew that if she didn’t get out of there soon things would be escalating and that could not happen in the kitchen.

“I’m going to take a shower I’ll see you upstairs.” Liz quickly made her way upstairs. She knew what she had planned and just hoped that Max wouldn’t turn her down this time.

Twenty minutes later the kitchen was spotless once again and Max needed a shower. He quickly made his way upstairs and walked through his daughter’s room to check on her, she was sound asleep. He then walked to the adjoining bathroom and hopped in the shower to clean off.

Liz heard Max’s shower turn off and her heart started to thump loudly in her chest in anticipation. She was terrified but excited all at the same time; she just hoped Max would be as well.

After quickly towel drying off Max wrapped the towel around his waist and entered his bedroom closing the bathroom door behind him. The room was pitch black but he knew where everything was so it wasn’t a big deal.

He pulled off his towel and made his way towards his bed; he knew he threw his shorts there this morning.

“Liz!” Max was startled when he had to turn on the light because he couldn’t find his shorts only to see Liz standing by his door wearing nothing but a white lacey practically see through teddy. He swallowed thickly.

Liz’s eyes almost popped out of her head. Max was naked…completely naked and he looked beautiful and sculpted. She saw muscles she never knew he had.

“Hi.” Liz smiled shyly and made her way to stand in front of him. She was nervous, but she trusted him and so she let her heart guide her.

“You look amazing Liz.” Max framed her face with his hands and pulled her into a fierce kiss. He wished that he could get his heart to stop racing, but when he saw her every part of his body felt like it was on fire. She was the most beautiful creature he ever laid eyes on…and she was his…hopefully forever.

They pulled away from the kiss and Liz looked up into his eyes. She saw the uncertainty and knew that she needed to say something before he put an end to this.

“Max I want to be with you and I don’t want to wait. I know you want it to be special and perfect, but what you don’t understand is that no matter where we are it will always be perfect and special because it’s with you. I love you and I want to share myself with you…tonight.” Max was ready to protest, it wasn’t that he didn’t want to be with her because he did more than anything but he was terrified that he would just mess things up. But when he looked into her eyes he knew no matter what they would have each other and that would always be enough.

“I love you Liz.” Max bent down and lifted her in his arms and placed her gently on his bed.

“I love you too Max.” Before he laid down beside her he decided that having the bright light on was just not romantic, but he didn’t have any candles so he quickly walked over to the bathroom and turned on the light, closing his daughters door and leaving the door leading to his room cracked open allowing dim light to shine in. He then turned off his bedroom light and slipped into bed beside Liz.

He caressed her face and lips; he memorized every part of her body. He placed kisses on her lips and neck. He felt like this was his first time he was so nervous. Liz knew how nervous he was so she simply helped him along and began to remove the straps to her teddy down her shoulders and Max quickly picked up on what she was doing and helped her along.

When he had her before him completely exposed he closed his eyes and took a deep breath.

“You’re so beautiful Liz, you just have no idea.” Liz pulled him down on top of her and fused her lips with his. They continued their exploration of each other’s bodies but it was soon becoming difficult to not let it progress. Pulling the covers over their bodies Max lay between her thighs and continued to kiss her until she was breathless and panting.

“Are you still on the pill?” Max’s question coming out in a panting whisper. He could feel her heart beating quickly and her chest quickly rising and falling against his.

“Yes.” Max nodded and began to devour her lips, their tongues gliding effortlessly against one another. Max brought his hands between them positioning his body to join hers. But Liz’s small hand on his chest stopped his motions.

“What? Are you okay? Do you want me to stop?” Max raised himself on his elbows to steady himself.

“No. I just…I have to tell you something.” Max removed the hair from her face and waited for her to continue.

“Go ahead.”

“I’ve never done this before Max.” Liz said so softly that if Max weren’t paying close attention he would have missed what she said. Max drew in a ragged breath. He was trying to wrap his mind over her still being a virgin after all this time.

“Liz…I…” He didn’t know what to say to that. Tears began to burn at the back of his eyes and he squeezed them shut to hold them back.

“Make love to me Max.” Liz whispered out and pulled him back down against her. They made love for the first time and it was everything Liz imagined it would be. He was so gentle and sweet with her. Throughout the entire time she felt so special and loved. For Max the experience was life altering, he now knew what it was like to be with someone and make love to them. The feeling of total completeness felt amazing to him.

Just when he thought she couldn’t be anymore perfect in his eyes, she manages to surprise him with more love than the world can possibly hold and he felt blessed.

“Max?” Liz whispered against his chest. They were both quickly falling asleep.

“Yeah?”

“I’m glad I waited for you.” Liz smiled against his chest and Max pulled her closer to him, leaned forward and kissed her lips softly.

“Thank you Liz for giving me one of the most precious gifts and for waiting for me, I just I wish…” He wanted to tell her that he wished he waited for her, but Liz wouldn’t hear of it. That was the past and it was time to leave it there forever.

“Shh, I wouldn’t change one thing Max…not one thing.”

“I love you baby.”

“Hmm love you too.” They both drifted off to sleep more in love than when they woke up that morning.


TBC...

FYI: Behind Her Eyes & Confessions have been updated as well today.

[Behrsgirl77]

A/N - Okay guys I have some sad news I have been working on this story today and finished 4 chapters leaving 2 more for me to write, so after this part there are only 5 more parts and that's it. I want to thank all of you for reading and I hope you enjoy!


Chapter 27


Max had wracked his brain for weeks on what to get Liz for her birthday. He finally settled on a present but hoped that she didn’t take it the wrong way. Their relationship after the night they made love was indescribable. Max loved her more than ever. He felt like his life couldn’t get any better and he couldn’t wait to share the rest of his life with her.

Tomorrow was her birthday and Liz had told Max that she needed to call her parents they were flying into New York tomorrow and they wanted her there but she had decided against it. She knew her parents would be more than upset with her but she decided that it was what she wanted. Max tried to get her to think about it from her parent’s point of view, they even argued about it but Liz stood firm on her decision so Max let it go.

“Hey Max what’s been going on?” Serena walked into the diner that afternoon and saw her cousin sitting on one of the stools at the counter.

“Nothing much. So I see you and Kyle are spending every waking second together.” Max joked with his cousin who has been missing in action for the past two weeks. She was leaving next week and he was going to miss her but in moving to Boston they would be closer so there was something to be happy about.

“Oh like you’re one to talk lover boy!” Serena patted her cousin on the back and looked around the diner where she spotted Liz waiting on a table in the far right corner of the room.

“Whatever.”

“So tomorrow is Liz’s birthday, do you have her present?”

“Yes I do.” Max took a sip of his coffee. He knew Serena wanted to know what he got Liz but he was going to make her beg for it.

“Well are you going to tell me or what?”

“No.”

“No? What the hell is that? I mean I’m your only cousin and I’m leaving next week I mean how can you turn me down?” Serena said as seriously as possible.

“Sorry no can do.” Max quickly got up from his stool and made his way into the back room. He needed to get some paperwork done and faxed over to Mr. Johnson’s office for the final closing next week. Diane would need to head out to Boston first to find a place and she would be leaving next week. Because of this Mr. Johnson agreed to let Max have the apartment above the diner for an additional week giving him enough time to move everything out and for his mother to find not only herself but also Max, Kylei and Liz a place to live.

“Max.” Serena whined as she followed him into the back room and upstairs to his bedroom. Kylei was asleep for her afternoon nap and since Mr. Johnson had wanted a full staff when he took over the diner, Max and his mother had hired employees so things were covered for the diner. Although Liz insisted she still work there, she actually enjoyed it, but Max wasn’t so convinced when she was cursing out the customers left and right. But it made her smile so he decided if that is what she wanted he wouldn’t stop her.

“Not gonna happen so stop. Now I have work to do.” Max took a seat at his desk, knowing that Serena would get it out of him before tomorrow.

“Fine! But I’m going to take a quick shower and I’ll be back.” Serena turned on her heels and headed to her bedroom.

While Max was upstairs getting his paperwork done, Diane was in the kitchen storage area cleaning some things up. Liz was still in the main dining area, taking a break sitting at one of the front booths. The lunch crowd was gone and there were only about four customers left.

She hears the bells above the door chime but didn’t look up; they had a full staff that could take care of those customers.

“Well, well, well who do we have here?” Liz puts down her glass and looks over to her left quickly and rolls her eyes. Will she ever give up? She thought to herself.

“What do you want now Maria?”

“Oh nothing just thought I’d stop in and see how you were doing. Oh! And bring a friend I met the other day.” Liz slowly stood up from the booth because as far as she could tell Maria came in alone.

“Hi Liz.” Liz’s back stiffened. It couldn’t be? It just couldn’t. She closed her eyes and swallowed thickly.

“Oh yes Liz this is really happening.” Maria smiled evilly with a gleam in her eye. How sick could she be? Liz thought.

“Tess.” The name escaped Liz’s throat like venom from a snake. Maria saw that this situation was getting to Liz and she couldn’t get enough of it. She wanted Liz to hurt just like she made her hurt when she came back into Max’s life.

“Oh Liz I’m sorry I didn’t know you remembered Tess from high school I mean that was so long ago.” Maria knew what she was doing she just hoped she got the effect she was looking for.

While the small confrontation was taking place Diane had reentered the dining area and saw Maria and Liz, she noticed very quickly the locked jaw and straightened back Liz had. She knew it could get bad quick so she turned and ran up the stairs to get Max.

When Max heard his mother’s voice, he knew it was something bad.

“What?! What’s wrong?” He turned when his mother entered his room.

“It’s Liz…and Maria.”

“Damn it!” Max took off down the stairs past his mother into the main dining area, sure enough not only was Maria there but Tess as well. What is she doing here? He thought.

“I can’t say that I could ever forget her unfortunately. After all catching her in bed with my fiancé was a little unforgettable what do you think Tess?” Liz said through clenched teeth. Max had just stepped in behind Liz and he heard what she had just said. Tess was the one she found Chris in bed with, this was worse than he thought.

“Liz.”

“No Max! This ends now.” Max was reluctant but he stayed behind her waiting to see what she obviously had to say to both Tess and Maria.

“Oh does our little Lizzie have something to say?” Maria crossed her arms waiting, she knew she got to Liz and that was enough satisfaction.

“Look Liz I’m sorry about what happened with Chris…I.” Tess started only to be cut off by Liz.

“I don’t give a shit that you’re sorry! Fuck, you can have his sorry ass! Why are you even here? Did you find out I was back with Max? Did you come back for seconds or thirds or whatever?!” Tess jumped back at the volume and rage in Liz’s voice. Maria herself was taken aback. She had never seen Liz this enraged.

Max however was completely confused by what Liz had said. What did she mean by seconds or thirds?

“No Liz I didn’t know you would be here I didn’t…” The next sound that was heard was the sound of Liz’s fist coming into direct contact with Tess’ jaw.

“Fuck! What the hell was that for?!” Tess said while rubbing her jaw.

“Because you are nothing but a fucking whore and I hope you live a miserable life and never find happiness and when you do I hope it blows up in your face! Then you might have an idea of how you made me feel!” Liz yelled and now Serena had entered and saw the entire exchange. Max of course was in complete shock by the time he turned back around Liz was in Maria’s face. He grabbed her by her waist to stop her, but it was futile she just squirmed from his hold and continued on.

“And you! You are nothing to me! You are nothing to no one! I loved you like a sister and that was the biggest joke of all, but it doesn’t matter because I’m happy Maria. Max and I are happy and I really hope that hurts you.” Liz finished somewhat deflated. She was still shaking from hitting Tess; she couldn’t believe she just did it. She just wanted to get out of there but Maria had to get the last word.

Max saw the look pass Maria’s face but it was too late the words already left her mouth.

“You know what Liz? I bet you have no idea just how many girls Max slept with.” Liz gasped she didn’t want to know. It didn’t matter anymore but that didn’t mean she wanted to know just how many girls Max had been with.

“Maria that’s enough!” Max stepped in, this was not something he was proud of nor did he want Liz to know.

“Oh no Max not until the love of your life knows just how many girls you f---“ Liz didn’t give Maria a chance to finish that sentence because once again without warning her fist connected with Maria’s jaw.

That was it Max grabbed Liz by the waist and dragged her screaming out of the diner.

“Let me go Max!”

“No not until you calm down.” He placed her on her feet in the back alley of the diner but he didn’t relinquish his hold on her.

“That’s not going to happen so just leave me alone!”

“What? Are you mad at me?” Max knew that Liz’s emotions were flying high but he knew he didn’t do anything wrong.

“How could you sleep with her?!” Liz yelled at Max who suddenly let his hold on her go. He was floored what the hell was she talking about?

“What? Who? Liz I told you I didn’t sleep with Maria.”

“Not Maria…Tess!” Liz cried out, tears fell from her eyes uncontrollably. She knew it would hurt talking about it, she loved Max but she was angry right now and her emotions were getting the best of her.

“I didn’t.” Max pleaded with her to listen to what she already knew was the truth. But she just ignored him.

“First you then Chris it’s like a never ending cycle! I don’t believe it!” Liz yelled once again the tears still falling and her body was slowly being consumed by the anger. She didn’t care that Tess slept with Chris, but she did care that Max slept with Tess. It hurt more than she wanted to admit.

Max quickly pulled her close and framed her face with his hands and looked right into her eyes. “Liz, I didn’t sleep with Tess.” He finished softly, but Liz turned her head away from him.

“Are you even listening to me?!” Max was getting angry that she was not even going to hear what he had to say but when she broke down he was defenseless not to help her.

“I just…I’m…” She throws herself against Max who gently lifted her in his arms and carried her upstairs to his room. After settling her crying form on the bed he lay down beside her and tried to talk to her once again.

“Liz…baby I didn’t sleep with Tess.” He trailed his hand down her face and arms pulling her closer.

“You didn’t? But I thought…”

“You thought wrong Liz. I knew how much you hated her. I know I was low when I cheated but I never set out to hurt you Liz and I know that would have hurt you more than anything. I know you have your doubts…”

“No Max! I know you are telling me the truth. I trust you.” Max closed his eyes and wrapped his arms around her kissing her lips softly.

“I love you Liz, you’ll never know how much I love you.”

“And I love you Max. I was hurt you know?” Max nodded and held her tightly.

“I’m sorry Liz, I didn’t know Tess was the one…”

“I know you didn’t. I just hate her so much Max. I know that’s wrong but she always had everything I wanted and…”

“Like what?”

“Like she’s gorgeous, has a perfect body and guys love her and I thought…I thought she had you too.” Liz finished softly.

“Never Liz. She could never have me; I told you before Liz I always loved you even when I didn’t know it. I knew how you felt about her and I would never do that to you. But Liz you have to know that you are so beautiful and perfect and smart and just everything she isn’t, that’s why I love you and that’s why I want to be with you forever.”

“Forever?” Liz looked into his eyes.

“If you’ll have me.” Max returned the look and bit back his emotions when she answered.

“I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

They held each other until Liz fell asleep in his arms. Max held onto Liz’s last words and knew that his decision was the right one he just hoped he could wait until tomorrow.

TBC…

[Behrsgirl77]

A/N- Okay there is some major confusion going around and well I expected it that’s why I planted that part in the story in the very beginning with Tess and Max, now it’s finally come to light. Here is the part in the beginning that I “mentioned” Tess talking about sleeping with some “random” guy…

Liz enters the classroom, where she hears the class whore, Tess Harding, talking about some random guy she slept with last night. The girl was so desperate and she was perfect in everyway that counted, to guys anyway. She had golden blonde hair, big bright blue eyes, curves where they are supposed to be and a chest any girl would kill for. But Liz Parker had something that even Tess Harding couldn’t have, Max Evans.

Now later on in the hallway Max was arguing with a “girl” he slept with the night before…

“It was a mistake? Which time Max? This time or the last? I just want to be sure I know because if it was last night… I didn’t hear you complaining when I was underneath you naked!” Naked…Max was naked with her? No! It couldn’t be…could it? He wouldn’t have done that, Liz thought to herself.

It never states that it was Tess, it was a girl but Liz never said who it was or if she even knew the girl. However, because of that situation and the fact that Max said he slept with two girls while they were dating, Liz only assumed that it was Tess. I mean why not if he was rumored to have slept with most of the girls and Tess was rumored to have slept with most of the guys it makes perfect sense.

NOW onto the little Tess/Maria/Liz disagreement...Maria was looking to hurt Liz so she of course sought out Tess, but in doing so she obviously had to have spoken to Tess to get her to go to the diner in the first place where information had to be exchanged. So Maria did not know for sure if Max slept with Tess, but she knew it would hurt Liz whether it was true or not, fortunately for Maria she struck gold because she didn’t know that Tess slept with Liz’s fiancé until Liz said so.

As far as some of you who feel Liz was out of character, I think it was best put by Begonia9508

it was just too much for her to be confronted with two bitches and she reacted. thats all!!!!

– Eve you are correct!

Oh one last thing…As far as Maria unfortunately I will not explore anything more with her, it’s a done deal. She will suffer through life alone, it's time for Max and Liz to leave that all behind...with that said...

Thank you for the great feedback and on with the story...


Chapter 28



After the confrontation with Tess and Maria, Max had let Liz sleep for a few hours. He knew she needed it since she would have to call her parents that night and that would just be added stress. He hated seeing her like that but because of the situation there was nothing he could do but be there for her.

Liz made her way into the living room where she saw Kyle, Serena, Max and Kylei all sitting on the couch watching a movie.

“Hey.” Liz said softly.

“Hi Liz, how’s my champ doing?” Kyle said looking up from the television. Liz gave him a shy smile and took a seat next to Max.

“I’m better, thank you.” Max put his arm around her and pulled her against him.

“Hey baby, sleep well?”

“Yes, thanks.” Max kissed her temple softly. Kylei caught sight of Liz and crawled over her fathers lap into Liz’s.

“Hey sweetie! What are you doing? Getting bored watching this grown up movie?”

“No she’s not! It’s a football flick she loves them!” Max defended weakly.

“Right, sure Max whatever you say.” Liz placed kisses all over Kylei’s face. Max watched them for a few minutes; they were oblivious that all eyes were on them while they interacted. Max felt like his heart would burst with the love he had for those two girls.

“I’ll be right back. I’m going to go see if my mom needs any help with dinner.”

“Oh I’ll go Max.” Serena said while making a move to get off the couch.

“No Sere, it’s okay I got it.” Serena went back to lying against Kyle’s chest when she saw the look in her cousin’s face. Whatever it was, he needed to talk to his mother and it was serious.

“Hey mom! Need some help?”

“Oh Max could you? That would be great. I need to take the chicken out of the oven.” Max quickly pulled out the potholders and pulled the tray of chicken out of the oven and placed it on the counter.

“Thank you.”

“No problem.” Max stood in the kitchen not really sure how to start the conversation with his mother that he needed to have. Diane noticed her son grew quiet.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing it’s just that I need to talk to you about something.” Diane put down the spoon she had in her hand and grabbed her son’s hand giving it a small squeeze.

“So talk sweetheart.” Diane looked into the eyes of her son and saw that whatever it was he needed to say was important. Max took a deep breath before speaking.

“It’s about Liz and me. Well it’s about her birthday and…” He couldn’t get the words out the way he wanted. He just hoped that his mother supported him with his decision.

“Max, honey just talk to me. You know I’m here for you whatever it is.” Max looked at his mother and saw the silent encouragement she always offered him.

“Liz is going to call her parents and tell them she is not going to New York tomorrow like they think she is, but I wondered if maybe after she called them, if maybe you could call them and convince them to come here. I know I shouldn’t get involved but they are her parents and I know she’s going to fight with them tonight, but I won’t blame them for being upset. She is their only child after all and it’s her birthday, they should be here.”

“Max I understand what you’re saying but do you think that’s such a good idea? I mean they don’t know about you or Kylei and it could get worse.” Max knew his mother was right but there was a reason why he wanted Liz’s parents to know about him and Kylei, now he had to figure out a way to tell his mother.

“I know it will be bad, but I won’t have her chose me over her parents. I can’t they are too important to her and I know it would break her heart. So maybe if they see that she really chose to be here with me and it’s not me making her stay…maybe they…they…”

“What Max? What are you not telling me?”

“I’m going to ask Liz to marry me.”

“Well of course you are sweetheart eventually and…” Max shook his head.

“No Mom, I’m asking Liz to marry me tomorrow.”

“What?! Max are you sure? I mean I know things are going great but isn’t it too soon?” Max understood his mother’s worries.

“I know it seems sudden, but Mom she is the one for me, the only one I want to be with. I’m not saying we will get married tomorrow but we will be living together and I just I can’t wait Mom. I have her and I never want to let her go, I know it’s the right thing, the right time and…” Max was trying to express his feelings to his mother trying to make her understand that he needed to do this.

Diane saw the look in her son’s eyes. He might only be twenty years old but he had lived a lifetime and experienced the error of his ways, the heartache and love this world has to offer and she knew that the only person that would ever make her son happy was Liz. So without much apprehension she agreed to call Liz’s parents.

“You will?”

“Yes honey. I would do anything for you.” Max threw his arms around his mother.

“Thank you mom, thank you so much.”

“You’re welcome, but you have to promise me something.” Max pulled away slowly to regard his mother.

“Never change Max. Ever. I am so proud to call you my son and I know that your father is smiling down on you and he’s so thankful to have had you as a son.” Diane was in tears as that point. Max tightened his hold around his mother. He knew she was very emotional these last few days, since she was leaving and he knew it was going to be one of the hardest things she has had to do, but Max would be there for her every step of the way.

“I love you Mom.”

“I love you baby.”

“Max?” Both Diane and Max snapped their heads towards entrance of the kitchen where Liz was now standing with Kylei in her arms.

“Liz, honey just in time dinner is done.” Liz looked at both Max and his mother and knew a serious conversation took place, but decided it probably had nothing to do with her and everything to do with his mother leaving.

“Oh okay I’ll go tell everyone else.” Max and his mother exchanged a small smile when Liz left the room.

“I need to call my parents Max.” Liz said after cleaning off the kitchen table. Diane had taken Kylei into the living room, while Kyle went upstairs with Serena to help her finish packing.

“I know you do. You can use my room if you want.” Max turned and pulled Liz into his arms. He knew she didn’t want to make the call but also knew that she had to.

“Will you come with me?”

“Of course I will baby.” Liz nodded and pulled Max with her upstairs.

After closing his bedroom door Liz walked over to his desk and took a seat. Max just waited near the door for her to do what she needed, he would be there for her when it was all over. Taking a deep breath Liz picked up the phone and began dialing.

“Hi Mom!”

“Yes, I’m good. Yes, I know.” Max knew that her mother was bombarding her with questions and that she was getting stressed out. So he moved closer to her and kneeled down at her feet gently caressing her arm. Liz smiled down at Max gratefully.

“About that, I called you to tell you that I wouldn’t be coming tomorrow.” Liz pulled the phone away from her ear when her mother yelled through the phone.

“Mom, would you just listen to me for a minute? Thank you. Look I’m staying in Roswell with Max.” Liz rolled her eyes once again.

“Max Evans, yes Mom that Max Evans.” Max had to roll his eyes, obviously they knew about him from the past. Great! He thought. That was another hurdle he was going to have to overcome, but he would do it for Liz.

“No it’s not even like that, you don’t know him. Yes I do Mom I know exactly what I’m doing and I’m happy and if you love me you would accept it.” There was silence on both ends of the phone, Liz was furious that her mother was treating her like a child. Liz’s mother spoke up once again.

“Well I’m sorry you feel that way Mom, but I’m staying with Max and if you can’t accept it then I don’t know what to tell you. I have to go, I’ll call you tomorrow or something.” And with that Liz hung up and began crying.

“I’m sorry baby.” Max pulled her down next to him.

“I know, but I mean she doesn’t know you Max, she doesn’t know how I feel about you, or how much I love you and want to be with you.” Max couldn’t hold back the smile bursting forth from her words. He looked down at her beautiful face and kissed her softly.

“Don’t worry Liz, it’s just they’re shocked you know? I mean you did just drop this on them and I’m sure your mother was nothing compared to how your father is going to react. Just give them time.” Liz looked into Max’s eyes and was just blown away by the love she knew he felt for her.

”I love you Max so much and I don’t know if I could have made it without you.”

“Yes you would have Liz, you don’t need me to…”

“Yes I do Max, I need you more than you know. Thank you for making me happy.” Liz smiled at him and threw herself back into his arms and kissed him.

“Liz…” Liz trailing kisses down his neck quickly cut off Max’s words. He ran his hands up her back and pulled her down against him. He knew they didn’t have much time and was prepared to stop when she was ready. They had made love several times already, and always took their time getting to know one another, however this time Liz was not willing to let the opportunity pass.

Liz quickly found the rim of his shirt and leaned up enough to pull it off of him. She would never grow tired of looking at him. She then attached her lips to his hard chest and trailed her tongue down his torso and back up again.

“Baby…we have to…” Liz attacked his lips once again, sliding her tongue into his mouth muffling his words. Max couldn’t stand it any longer so he quickly removed her shirt and undid the buttons on her jeans sliding them down her trim waist. He needed her now and nothing could stop him.

“Max please…” Liz begged and Max did not deny her. She shifted further down his legs allowing him to free himself from the confines of his jeans, and then she crawled back up and straddled his waist after removing her underwear.

“Liz.”

“Max.” They both moaned in unison as their bodies fused together. They knew that they needed to be discrete since Serena was upstairs with Kyle.

With their bodies joined they began a fast paced rhythm that brought them quickly to their release, both moaning into each other’s mouths as they let go and climaxed together.

“Well that was different.” Max smiled up at his love, moving her matted hair away from her face and holding her tightly.

“Yes it was, but it was great.” Liz smiled and placed a kiss on his lips then rested her head against his chest.

They stayed that way for a few minutes until their breathing got back to normal, then dressed and made their way back downstairs.

“Hey Mom, how’s she doing?” Max asked as he and Liz entered the living room.

“Oh she’s good, can you take her though Max I need to make a quick phone call?” Max knew exactly what phone call she needed to make so he took his daughter and decided it was best if both he and Liz turned in for the night.

“Max?”

“Yeah Liz?”

“Is everything okay with your Mom?”

“Yeah, I mean she’s upset about leaving but yeah she’s okay.”

“Good I just want to make sure.” Max smiled and led Liz back upstairs to put his daughter to bed.

Max was lying in bed and really wanted to know what happened with Liz’s parents but he didn’t want to wake Liz who was asleep beside him. They had been sleeping in the same room since the night they first made love and Max couldn’t be happier about it. He loved waking up to her beautiful face everyday.

He rolled over in the bed and saw that it was two in the morning, it was officially Liz’s birthday and as much as he didn’t want to wake her the need to ask her what he needed to ask her was overpowering.

“Liz?” Max whispered shaking her softly. Liz rolled over but didn’t wake up.

“Baby wake up.” Max whispered again, this time Liz’s big brown eyes opened up.

“Hmm Max.” Liz stretched and then pulled Max down for a kiss.

“Happy Birthday Liz.” Liz just smiled up at Max’s face and said, “Thank you.”

“I want to give you your present now.”

“What time is it?”

“Two.”

“Max can’t we do it in a little while? I’m so tired.” Max was disappointed but knew that she was tired so he would wait. He placed a kiss on her cheek and lay back down. Liz of course saw the look on his face and decided that she could get sleep afterwards.

“I changed my mind I want my present please.” Liz batted her eyelashes and Max threw his arms around her.

“Thank you, but you need to get dressed.”

“Huh?” It was two in the morning what the hell did she need to get dressed for she thought.

“Yes, just put anything on.” Liz just shrugged and did as he asked. She had to giggle at the happiness she saw in his face. Max quickly got out of bed, got dressed and then went into his daughter’s room, throwing her coat on and putting her in her car seat with a blanket. He couldn’t just leave her alone in the room after all.

“Ready?” Liz nodded and allowed Max to guide her downstairs and out the diner doors.

“Where are we going?” Liz yawned out.

“Not far, just across the street.” Max said still not wiping the smile off his face. He was nervous, what if she didn’t want what he wanted? No, he couldn’t think about that.

Once they reached their destination, Max placed Kylei on top of the picnic table, turned to face Liz and reached out his hands for her to take, which she did so without hesitation.

“I love you.” Max whispered.

“And I love you.” Liz whispered back with a shy smile.

Max took in a deep breath, closed his eyes and said a silent prayer before he lowered himself on one knee.


TBC…

[Behrsgirl77]

A/N - Sorry guys didn't mean to leave you hanging! Okay well maybe I did but if I say sorry does that make it better?!! Thanks for the great feedback!!




Chapter 29


Liz couldn’t believe it. Was he doing what she thought he was doing? She knew he loved her but was he ready for this? Was she? Funny thing was as soon as she asked herself that question she already knew the answer.

“I think I practiced this a hundred times but now that I have you here in front of me everything I planned to say seems meaningless.” He looked up into her tear filled eyes and smiled softly at her.

“I’ve been blessed Liz I know that. I didn’t think when I let you go all those years ago that I would have a second chance, another moment to hold you, to kiss you and to be with you. But somehow my prayers were answered and you came back and when you did I knew that I couldn’t let you go. I knew it wouldn’t be easy and I knew that you didn’t trust me. Lord knows you had every right not to. I broke your heart Liz and I will until the day I die regret that I hurt you, but I will promise to you right now and for the rest of my life that I will never, ever have you question my trust. I love you too much to hurt you again.” Max had tears in his eyes at this point but wouldn’t let that stop him.

“Your heart Liz, it’s amazing and so beautiful. I can only thank the heavens above for you. I don’t know how or why you came into my life, but from the moment I saw you I knew you were different and I was so scared. I was a coward Liz because instead of telling you how I really felt I hid behind my insecurities, and in doing so I lost you. I know what the feeling of total completeness of being with you is like but I also know the pain and loneliness of not and I never want to be without you Liz.”

“I want you to be the mother of my children…all of them.” Liz crumbled at Max’s words. She knew what he meant by that statement, he wanted Kylei to be hers officially. The tears continued to fall and Max quickly reached up and swiped them away.

“I have Kylei and she is my world. There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for her because I love her. I’m her father and she needs me, but Liz I need you. I know that now more than ever so…” He took in a ragged breath and a smile graced his face as the tears escaped the corners of his eyes. He quickly reached into his pocket and opened up a small black velvet box revealing to Liz the two-carat platinum princess cut diamond he had purchased the day after she admitted to him that she was in love with him.

“Elizabeth Parker will you marry me?” Max waited with baited breath for her response, which he didn’t have long to wait for.

“Yes Max!” Max quickly slipped the ring on her finger, stood and lifted her in his arms and kissed her breathlessly.

After placing her back on her feet he held her close not wanting to let go and not wanting that moment to pass. They stood there for a few minutes and then Max looked down into her beautiful eyes and told her that they didn’t have to get married right away, that they could wait…that he could wait.

“I know Max, we’ll wait but not too long.” Liz smiled and kissed his lips softly then rested her forehead against his.

“I love you so much Liz.”

“Hmm I know me too baby.”

“Speaking of baby.” They both turn to the right and see Kylei wide eyed in her chair looking at both of them and Liz couldn’t resist. She quickly unbuckled Kylei and held her in her arms placing a kiss on the top of her head.

“Hey sweetie, sorry we woke you but you know how impatient your daddy is.”

“Dada.” Max’s eyes grew wide as did Liz’s. Were they hearing things?

“Liz?” Liz simply nodded and handed Max his daughter.

“What did you just say pumpkin?” Kylei smiled at her daddy and placed an open palm on each of his cheeks and squeezed and then said it again.

“Dada.” Max eyes began to water and he pressed his daughter close to his chest and began bombarding her with kisses. Kylei however thought her daddy was playing so she just giggled and repeated her words over and over at the same time filling both Max and Liz’s heart with even more joy.

“Daddy loves you pumpkin!” Max kissed his daughter one last time then held her against his chest rubbing her back softly. Liz watched the entire exchange and she knew that Max was more than happy he was ecstatic, she was so happy for him. She thought that it must be a wonderful feeling having your child say those magic words for the first time and Liz couldn’t wait until it was her turn.

They made their way back home and after putting Kylei to bed Max carried his very tired fiancé back to bed.

“Goodnight Liz.” He leaned over her and placed a kiss on her forehead.

“Hmm night Max.” Liz fell asleep shortly thereafter. Max however didn’t think he could sleep if someone paid him to. Tonight was one of the best nights of his life, the love of his life accepted his marriage proposal and his daughter spoke for the first time. Life could not get any better he thought.

****


“Max why didn’t you wake me?!” Diane was so upset that she missed her granddaughter’s first words but was very happy for her son.

“Mom it was like three in the morning and I didn’t want to wake you up.” Max was feeling guilty maybe he should have woke up his mother and Serena. They were seated at the breakfast table, waiting for Liz to come downstairs with Kylei.

Liz had insisted that she get Kylei dressed that morning, so Max busied himself downstairs with breakfast. He knew their guests would be arriving shortly and wanted to make sure everything was set. His mother had informed him as soon as he got downstairs that both Jeff and Nancy Parker agreed to fly out today to spend Liz’s birthday with her. Diane did have to leave out details even though Nancy had pushed and pushed. She knew that Max wanted Liz to tell them and he wanted to be there when she did, so she respected their feelings in not telling.

“It’s okay but I tell you when she says grandma for the first time I can’t guarantee that you will be the first person I think of.” Diane joked with her son.

“Deal!”

A few minutes later Liz entered the kitchen with Kylei on her waist wearing a pretty pastel pink dress with white flowers across the bottom complete with her hair pulled back into two pigtails.

“Hey daddy, look who’s looking for you.” Liz said as she stood behind Max.

“Dada! Dada!” Kylei clapped and reached out for her father. Diane had tears in her eyes and Liz turned to her and whispered, “I know,” since she understood exactly what she was feeling.

“Oh princess you look so beautiful!” Max said lifting his daughter in his arms and kissing her.

“She sounds so adorable Max.” Serena said after getting over the initial shock of hearing Kylei speak for the first time.

“Doesn’t she?” Max smiled proudly.

“Thanks for dressing her Liz she looks perfect.” Max said looking up at Liz who was still standing behind him; she leaned over the chair and kissed his lips softly.

“Oh my God! Is that what I think it is?” Serena said looking at Liz’s left hand. Liz just rubbed her other hand across her engagement ring and smiled.

“Yes it is. Max and I are engaged.”

“Wow! That’s so great! Max you will pay for holding out on me!” Serena rose to her feet and wrapped her arms around Liz.

“Happy Birthday and Congratulations!”

“Thank you.” Liz smiled and turned when Diane called her over. Diane quickly pulled Liz into a tight hug, “Welcome to the family Liz.”

“Thank you.”

When breakfast was complete they all moved into the living room waiting for Kyle to arrive so when the front door bell rang, Liz quickly rose to answer it but she was shocked when she saw her parents standing on the other side of it.

“Mom! Dad!”

“Happy Birthday baby!” Both her parents pulled her into a hug but Liz was completely stiff. She could not figure out why they were there and if they were planning on coming then why didn’t her mother say anything yesterday.

Diane quickly ushered them into the house and offered them beverages, she knew the hard part was coming. Serena sat on the couch next to Max and Kylei who was seated next to her father with her favorite teddy bear.

“Max.” Jeff Parker eyed this man who broke his baby girls’ heart and now somehow managed to win it back.

“Hello Mr. Parker, Mrs. Parker, thank you for coming on such short notice.” Max stood and greeted Liz’s parents.

“This is my cousin Serena.” Serena stood and both Nancy and Jeff were taken aback at how much she looked like Max but greeted her just the same.

At that point Liz had taken her place beside Max, turned and lifted Kylei into her arms so that she was facing her parents.

“And this beauty is Kylei, Max’s daughter.”

“His…daughter?” Nancy was speechless she had no idea and furthermore she didn’t like it. Jeff on the other hand was quick to reach out to the little girl.

“Hey there, you are definitely a beauty.” Kylei smiled shyly and called out for her father. Max quickly plucked her from Liz’s arms and held her against his chest.

“Okay why don’t you take off your coats and have a seat.” Diane entered the living room carrying a tray filled with coffee cups and steaming coffee and placed it on the table.

“Thank you Diane.” Jeff spoke up since he noticed his wife was still in shock. Jeff nudged her a bit, he was shocked and surprised to hear that Max had a child but that didn’t mean he was going to be rude about it.

“Oh yes thank you Diane.” Nancy finally tore her eyes away from Kylei long enough to remove her jacket and take a seat.

After overly pleasant conversation Diane excused herself as well as Serena, they needed to get ready for dinner in a few hours. Serena quickly made her way upstairs to call Kyle and tell him to not come over until it was time to leave for dinner and then brought him up to date on everything.

“I’m just going to put her down for a nap before we leave, I’ll be back.” Max placed a kiss on Liz’s temple and gave her hand a quick squeeze. She was upset with him at first for setting up the meeting but was thankful that he did because she knew that she would never be able to.

“What the hell are you thinking?!” Nancy hissed out at her daughter once Max cleared the room.

“What are you talking about?” Liz really had no idea what her mother was ranting about.

“You know what I’m talking about; you are throwing your life away for him!” Nancy voice was raised and Jeff didn’t want this escalating too far.

“Nancy keep your voice down why don’t you just ask her instead of yelling at her?” Jeff tried to be the voice of reason.

“I am not throwing my life away for him. I love him Mom.”

“Right! Until he breaks your heart and che…”

“Don’t finish that sentence Mom, because if you do you can’t take it back.” Liz said quickly losing her temper.

“I don’t want to take it back.” Nancy bit out.

“Well then we have nothing to discuss.” Liz finished flatly.

“What?! Yes we do! What are you planning to do with your life?” Jeff knew that his wife was beyond reason but he trusted his daughter to help him understand.

“Lizzie just tell us what happened to change your mind? We just want to make sure you don’t get hurt.” Liz stood and kneeled beside her father.

“Dad, I know Max messed up before but he was a young…”

“Like he’s so much older now.” Nancy bit out sarcastically. Liz just ignored her.

“Like I was saying he was young and so was I. I may have loved him but we weren’t ready to be with each other. I know what he did was inexcusable but he has proven to me these past few months that he would never hurt me again and I trust him.” Liz finished sincerely and Jeff knew his daughter was intelligent and was going into this relationship with both eyes open but most of all he trusted her heart.

“Trust! Liz are you even listening to yourself? It’s only been what two, almost three months and you are in love with him again? I mean that’s just crazy.” Nancy couldn’t believe her level headed and intelligent daughter was falling for the lines Max Evans was feeding her.

“Yes I am Mom, I love him and Kylei like she was my own daughter and I will not give him up to make you happy. You are my parents and I never want to let you down, and I promise you if you just trust me you’ll see that I’m happy. Honestly and truthfully happy with Max, I know in my heart that there is no one that could make me happier. No one.” Liz finished firmly biting back the tears. Nancy saw the determination in her daughter’s eyes and that’s when she knew it was useless to fight her. She would have to do what her daughter asked and that was to trust her, and that was the one thing she did without question.

“Liz…”

“No Mom, if you are not going to be happy then I don’t want to hear what you have to say right now.” Liz finished standing before her parents she had one more thing to say before she left.

“I have something to tell you and I really wish you would be happy for me but…I can’t deal with that right now.”

“What is it honey?” Jeff asked his daughter who looked like she was going to break down any moment.

“Max asked me to marry him and I said yes.” With that Liz turned on her heels and ran out of the room headed straight for Max’s room.

“Jeff what are we going to do?” Nancy turned a tearful gaze to her husband, who simply looked at his wife and said, “We are going to continue to love and support her decisions, as much as I hate to admit it she’s not a little girl and has been making up her own mind for a long time. And she’s happy Nancy, she’s really happy can’t you see it?” He finished softly.

“Yes, I see it I just don’t want to her to get hurt again; she’s been through so much already.” That was all Nancy was worried about and Jeff understood.

“I know but I really don’t think it’s going to happen, but if it does we’ll be here for her.” Nancy smiled at her husband and allowed him to wrap his arms around her; they sat in silence for a few minutes.

Nancy and Jeff both decided that in the grand scheme of things their feelings meant nothing, because they raised their daughter right and they knew it and if she had faith in Max Evans, then so would they.




TBC…


FYI: Behind Her Eyes and Confessions of a Bachelorette were also updated today. I'm still working on my part of Someone To Love You to post later today! Thanks!