Title: The Roads We Take (Sequel to Where Do We Go From Here?)
Author: Roswell4Ever1 and Angelrose242000
Rating: Teen to Mature
Pairings: Alex/Tess, Max/Liz, Kyle/Maria, Michael/Isabel
Disclaimer: I own NOTHING!
Summary:
Author's Note:
BOOK ONE: FAMILY TIES
By, Angelrose242000
Part One—The Return
Eight Years Later…
April 5, 2008—New York City
Alex Whitman was studying in the apartment that he and his pretty wife, Tess shared. Nearly at the end of his college career, already seeing his law degree in his mind, Alex smiled at Tess as she walked over to him on this particular sunny Saturday. She was beautiful and loved him and he loved her as much now as he ever had. Handing him a glass of soda Tess said, “How’s it coming?”
Alex took the drink and putting down his notebook and his law thoughts for the moment, he focused on her and said, “Good.” He pulled her closer to his lap and tilting up her face he kissed her, suddenly feeling the inspiration to forget law for a little while. Catching on, Tess moved closer and put his pencil on his desk, next to the notebook and stack of law books. Re-positioning herself on his lap, Tess moved her mouth to his for another kiss. Holding Tess in his arms, Alex continued to kiss her as he carried her into their bedroom. Halfway into undressing her and making love the phone rang!
As Alex began kissing her down her neck, Tess said, “Alex…” Alex said “Hmmm?” Grinning, Tess said, “Alex…the phone…it’s ringing.”
Alex shrugged and said toned out of everything but this, “Answering machine…let’s let it do it’s job.”
Tess said, “Okay…” She didn’t want to break this up either and she pulled Alex’s deep blue sweater over his head. They shared this private moment to be together, letting the answering machine do it’s job….
An hour later, Alex dressed, watching as Tess slept and smiling he left her to sleep, kissing her once again and going into the kitchen. He needed a snack…it was going on noon and he hadn’t eaten a bite yet.
He found the Cocoa Pebbles and pouring a bowl full he covered it with milk and sat at the table. Picking up the magazine on the table he began to read it while eating. Tess walked in, dressed again in jeans and a red sweater, the same she wore before. Walking in the room, Tess said, “Hello.” Alex put the magazine down and walking to Tess he moved in and said, “Hello.” He kissed her. Tess stepped up against him and kissed him back. Holding each other, Tess smiled as he kissed her neck. Tess said, “Be careful…you get me too excited we’ll have to go back to bed again.” Laughing, Alex kissed her lips and said, “Is that a promise?” He reached out and playfully acted like he was going to grab her and she said on a squeal, “Alex!” He started to chase her back into the bedroom when the phone rang, yet again.
Tess moved around him and grabbing the phone, catching his frustrated look with an ornery one back, she said, “Whitman residence. I’m sorry we can’t come to the phone right now…but if you’ll leave a name and number we’ll get back with you…” By now Alex was kissing her neck and she was having to work hard at fighting letting it show. She uttered dreamily, “Beep…” She turned to Alex before hanging up and said, “That’s not fair…” She pulled him to her and kissed him, then remembering the phone wasn’t hung up she said, “Oops.”
Just then, she heard Mr. W.’s voice as he said, “Tess?”
Tess blushed and said, “Mr. W.?” Swatting Alex away with a grin, she said to the phone, “What is it…I mean how are you?”
Duane knew he’d interrupted and hated that, even though he did grin some and said, “Not so good. Can I speak with Alex?”
Tess held the phone to her chest and whispered, “It’s your dad, Alex…and I think he heard us…”
Alex took the phone and said initially, “You know I would have called back later…” Tess saw the mood change almost instantly and watched as Alex ran a hand through his hair saying emotionally, “When…when did it happen? Where is she now? I’ll be there.”
Hanging up, Alex sat at the wooden table and said, “Damn…”
Tess moved beside him and said nervously, “Alex what is it? What’s wrong?”
Alex looked at Tess and said, “It’s Amy. She’s in a mess. I have to take a flight today.”
Tess said, “What about your finals, Alex?” Alex said shrugging, “I’ll have to make it up next year. Which means more debt a delayed graduation, but I can’t leave her alone…not in jail.”
Shaking her head, Tess said, “No, I couldn’t either. That’s our little sister in there.” So they gathered their things and were on the next flight out of New York, back to Roswell….
On the plane, Tess asked, “What happened? I thought Amy was doing well in school.”
Alex looked at Tess worriedly and said, “Yeah, me too.”
Alex and Tess met Duane at the airport that same afternoon at around four. He looked drained and about five years older than he was. Alex walked to him and meeting him in the middle, he said, “Hey Dad.”
Duane hugged his son and said, “Alex…” looking at him, seeing the bags under his eyes and remembering law school himself he said, “Staying up late studying I see.”
Nodding, Alex said, “Only way to get through it.” Putting an arm around Tess, he added, “Tess can tell you. She’s been my support through it all.”
Tess touched his chest and looked up into Alex’s blue eyes smiling as she said, “You got me through four years of business school too, Alex. It works both ways.” Turning to Duane, she said, “Mr. W. I’ve missed you.” She walked to him and reached for a hug. He hugged her back.
Duane said affectionately, “I’ve missed you both.”
Alex felt guilty saying, “We should have come last month…”
Duane shook his head and said, “It costs enough to get through school and pay bills, Alex. I’m fully aware of that. I’m glad to see you now. So, you ready?”
Getting nods, they left in his car and on the drive to the house, Alex grew up in, Duane said, “We’ll drop off your bags and talk before the drive.” Alex said, “Okay.” Tess said, “That’s fine. I could use the rest anyway.”
There was a pause and then Duane said, “Amy was so set, for so long. She had good grades and used to tell me about how she was going on to Harvard, that no other college was good enough. She looked up to you, Alex…and you Tess, saying how you were her role models.”
Alex asked, “What happened?”
Duane looked long at him while at a red light on a dead street and said, “Troy Hilton happened. He and his friends became her life this year. I tried to remind her that hanging with them wouldn’t get her into Harvard. She believed she could still go, that her grades would speak for her…then it quit mattering altogether.”
Alex let his head fall back on the front passenger seat as he said, “Man Dad…I’m sorry.”
Duane said, “I just wonder what I did. I mean when I saw the mistakes with you, I stayed home more and after you two transferred off to the university, I was focused in Amy’s life. We were close. I just don’t get it!” He was at his height of frustration. Alex caught it and said, “Pull over. I’ll drive.”
Duane didn’t argue. He pulled to an available opening on the side of the road and switched places with his son.
As Alex drove he said, “It’s not your fault, dad. I’m sure of that. She’s…what…sixteen?”
Duane said, “Just had her seventeenth birthday. Ever since she met that punk hoodlum, she’s let go of anything that was positive in her life. I’ve walked in on the two of them in bed, with her face where it shouldn’t be. He drives a motorcycle and hangs with a bad crowd, smokes a variety of things and thinks he is bad…”
Raising his eyebrows, Alex said, not liking it, “Another words she’s gotten together with a bad ass wannabe…much like her older brother used to be. Great…” Seeing the worry, Alex tried to be consoling saying, “Dad it may not be that bad. She’s…” trying to find the right word that would not smudge his sister, he said, “exploring…”
Duane said, “Alex she was busted for being wasted, drunk and stoned. She was found in a bedroom with the son of a bitch that I by the way have half a mind to have busted for statutory rape as he is overage.”
Alex said, “Overage huh? Good…that means I can get my hands on him.”
Tess touched his shoulder and said sympathetically, “Alex…you don’t want to do that.”
Alex said, “No…I don’t. But you let me find out he has done this to her, he has been the cause of her being there, her being subjected to it, and he is mine.”
Duane said, “Alex, I called you here because I…I need your help. Not because you went down this road so much as because she won’t listen to me. She might to you.”
Alex said lowly, “Because I have been there.” When Duane tried to rectify what he said, Alex shook his head and focused on the road saying, “It’s okay, Dad. I understand…I’m not mad at you. I just need to focus on the road, then on what is going on with Amy.” Inside he was tore up. That was his baby sister. Did he cause it in some way? By having drugs around her, temporarily when she was young? By being such a rough neck for so long?
He looked out the window when he could and wiped a tear of sadness….
Nothing could have prepared Alex or Tess for the young woman they saw an hour later at the jail. Amy used to braid her hair and ride her bike with friends. She stood in an orange jumpsuit and her once brown hair was dyed black. Her eyes were blue but showed bloodshot remnants.
Alex looked at the guard when he suggested they talk through the phone and said, “I don’t think that is going to be necessary, Tom. I was here once before—and you know Amy. She isn’t a threat. I trust her.”
Tess said, “So do I.”
Tom said, “It is against the rules, but since I do know your family, I’ll allow it this once. Don’t tell anyone I did it.”
Agreeing, they watched as Amy walked out in chains. She looked at Alex and glanced briefly at Tess, forcing herself to avoid her dad completely. She said, “Alex…I want to talk to you, alone.”
Alex looked at Tess and seeing her hurt he kissed her and said, “I’ll be right back.” She nodded and moved next to Mr. W. The two watched as Alex and Amy walked to a metal table to sit…
Alex looked at Amy, watched her signs that said she was itching for a cigarette. Figuring he’d answer for it if the guard complained, Alex lit a cigarette and handed it to her, watching as she took it in her hand and proceeded to smoke it. He rarely smoked anymore, but seeing his sister like this, Alex broke down and had one himself.
Amy began, “I…I hope I didn’t hurt Tess too bad…I just needed…to talk with you, Alex.”
Alex said, “Tess is strong and she knows that you and I are close.” Amy nodded, keeping her eyes downward. Alex asked calmly, “So…what’s going on with you? It’s been awhile.”
Amy said, “A lot…I’m not the same girl you saw last summer.”
Alex grinned and said, “Did you get that tattoo and belly ring that you joked about getting?”
Amy said, “I did.” Alex’s eyes grew large as he chuckled and said, “What did dad say about that?”
Amy said confidently, “He doesn’t know about them. He is completely clueless, Alex.”
Alex laughed with Amy and then noting the time, Alex said, “Amy…”
Amy turned her face to hide it, where only Alex saw as she broke down into tears. Alex watched as Dad and Tess moved further away so that Amy felt comfortable talking. When they were semi alone, Alex pulled Amy into his arms and said, “You’re in deep aren’t you girl?”
Amy moved back to her seat and eyeing her cigarette in the tray she said, “Alex I’m ashamed to tell you all the things I’ve done.”
Alex looked at her and said, “You want to tell me, so tell me, Amy.”
Amy nodded and said, “I met a guy named Troy at one of the big parties at the school. Becky Rolan talked me into going. She wasn’t a close friend of mine, but we did talk. She’d been telling me for months how I needed to do something off the wall, that I was too good. Too much into my books. That I’d never meet anyone for the senior prom if I didn’t. So…I went. I met Troy there. He was so cool…he reminded me of you, Alex. He sat with his buddies at a table and they were so cool. I’d secretly had this crush on him anyway…because he was obnoxious in class and completely the opposite of me. So I finally got up the nerve when he walked over to me and I talked to him. We started seeing each other after that night. You know, when I hung with him and his friends…I felt bad.” She laughed and caught his forced smile for her sake. She took it at value and went on, “When I was alone with Troy he would be romantic and sweet. He took me on bike rides.”
Alex said, “Sounds cool.” Amy grinned hollowly and said, “It was.”
Alex caught the pain and asked quietly, “How did you end up here, Amy?”
Amy said, “He took me to a party…at a crack house…” her eyes filled with tears of regret now as she said, “He told me it was a friend of his and that it would be fun. So of course I went along. We hadn’t…anyway, when we got there, Randy and his buddies took our coats and handed us some good shit as he called it. It was a couple of joints. Not a stranger to that anymore, I went along. The next thing I knew I was giddy, upstairs in a darkened bedroom, feeling Troy as he…well you know.”
Alex said disconcertingly, “I get it.”
Amy went on, “When we left the room and went back to the others…Alex, they all smiled and joked with Troy like he was all that. Their actions broke through my giddiness and I felt it. It hurt…Alex it hurt, it felt like I was some grand prize. They all acted like they knew it was going to happen and I didn’t like that. So I said, ‘Troy, I’m going home.’ Troy grabbed me close and said, ‘Running off little girl? I don’t think so. I’m not done yet. Once wasn’t enough.’” Tears fell as she said, “I glared at him and said, ‘Why don’t you just tell everyone here what we did?’ He sneered at me and said with a grin, ‘Don’t have to. They already know.’ I turned to Janet, one of my friends and said, ‘Janet?’ Janet said sympathetically, ‘Amy it is obvious. You went upstairs with him…plus…if it was like my time with Eric, they videotaped it.’ I was scared and said, ‘I want to go home. Now!’ But I was trapped in that house! I couldn’t leave. Troy wouldn’t’ let me and Janet was afraid. The others cheered him on and I…I was just the fun topic of the night…until the cops showed. I was there and it just happened to be where they did a drug bust. I had marijuana in my system. So now I get to face a judge in a few days.”
Alex said, “I’ll fight this with you, Amy.”
Amy said, “Fight what, Alex? Fight the judge when I hung out with Troy for a year…went out with him and his friends…drank with them…” She added horrifyingly, “I can’t look at dad anymore…I can’t look at Tess…I can barely speak with you about it. So go ahead, Alex. Call me a slut, a whore, a troublemaking rebel out to hurt dad and ruin my future. I’ve heard it already from enough that I’m used to it. Go ahead.”
Alex said, “I’m not going to call you any of those things, Amy. Because they aren’t true. You met a guy who was a jerk and hung out with his friends. You’ll get past this and go on to college.”
Amy said, “Yeah, if I don’t wind up in here for the next several months. I was…suspended the rest of the year, Alex.”
Alex nodded and said, “So you take summer school. You want college, Amy?” Amy nodded and he said, “Then we will work together, you and me, and you’ll have it.”
Smiling now, Amy said, “I love you, Alex.”
Alex said, “I love you, Amy. I’m gonna be busy, but I will be here as much as I can for you.” Amy moved forward, Alex met her, and they shared a hug. Amy said, “I’m so sorry, Alex…”
Alex patted her back and said, “Shhh…it’s okay. It’s gonna be okay, Amy.”
Alex walked over to Duane and Tess. Tess caught the pain and walked over to him first, wrapping her arms around his neck and feeling as he held her tight with his bent on her shoulder. Reading the emotion in each other’s eyes, they nodded. Tess said, “It’s bad then.”
Alex said, “It’s bad…” Turning to his dad, Alex said, “Let’s go home.” They got in the car and drove to the house. Seated in the living room, Alex looked at Duane and said, “Dad, you asked for me to come here to help. I’m going to. There are things that Amy has told me in secret that I know about and I am going to seek out that PI we hired back when we were in high school.”
Tess said, “I wonder what he’s up to.”
Duane said, “Still lives in Roswell last I heard. What are you hiring him for, Alex?”
Alex said, “Things went down that night that the law knows nothing about…but Amy does. She was made sport by her so-called friends…and used very badly. I’m taking care of that too, just in a roundabout way that won’t hurt her case. That will be my time.”
Alex added, “Speaking of which, I am heading out. Tess, I’m not going to tell you what to do, but I’d prefer if you stayed here…with dad.”
Tess moved forward shaking her head saying, “You can prefer it all you want but I am not going to go along with this. Alex you are risking your life. You have no idea what kind of guy she was dating. He could carry knives.”
Alex said meaningfully, “Yeah? I used to carry them too, Tess. Along with other things that we’ve talked about together.” He moved toward his jacket on the back of the couch and added, “I’m not afraid of some coward who goes after girls just to hold them frigging hostage in his house for who knows how long. After getting her stoned and…” he shook his head and grabbed his coat saying, “No. I have to do this, Tess. You might not agree with it, but it is what I have to do.”
Tess said, “Fine. Go have your damned fight, but you better be sure that you can kick his ass. I don’t want a visit from Valenti telling me you didn’t make it…or that you wound up in jail yourself.”
Alex grinned and taking Tess close to him he kissed her sweetly and said, “You won’t.” Grinning he added, “Something tells me it won’t take long. Nobody goes after my little sister without getting a piece of me after.” Tess kissed him and said “Be careful, Alex.”
Alex said, “I will be, Tess.” Meeting him at the door, she said, “If there are more than one, come home. Pretend you didn’t see them and come home.”
Alex said, “I’m only interested in Troy Hilton.”
Duane said, “You may not just get Troy. They hang in packs.” Alex remembered they did from the one he hung with. He still couldn’t back away. That was his sister.
When Alex left, Tess used her head. She looked at Duane and said, “Are the guys back in town?” Shrugging, knowing what she was getting at, Duane said, “I believe so.” Nodding, Tess picked up the phone and dialed Michael.
Michael picked up and said, “It’s your dime.”
Tess said, “Hey, Michael. It’s Tess.” She held out the phone at his holler. They had all remained close over the years, calling each other. Smiling briefly, Tess said, “It’s good to hear from you too. I’ll regain hearing eventually. Listen, I need a favor. You up for getting into a fist fight?”
Michael said, “What’s up?” Tess let him in on it and in minutes he was over at the house.
He along with Max and Kyle stood in the living room and Tess said, “Alex has gone off half-cocked after the jerk who hurt Amy…I need your help. Find him and help him…something tells me his fight isn’t going to be a one-on-one.”
Agreeing, Michael said, “Knowing that crowd as I do through seeing their messes on the streets, I agree with you.” Michael was a club owner.
So all three took off in search of Alex to help their best friend….
Alex took off in his dad’s car and went in search of Troy. He found a group of guys that he pegged to the “the latest gang” at the junkyard. Figures, Alex thought. Parking his dad’s car, he got out and started in their direction…
Michael drove Max and Kyle around Roswell until spotting Mr. Whitman’s car at the junkyard. Parking behind Alex, they climbed out and headed in not far behind.
Alex looked at the guys and said, “Hey. Which one of you is Troy?”
Troy stood at eye level with Alex and said, “I’m Troy. Who are you?”
Alex moved forward saying, “Your worst nightmare.” Troy grinned and said, “Look I don’t even know you.”
Alex said, “I know you. It’s enough. What’s more, my sister Amy knew you too.” How did he end up out of jail so soon, Alex wondered? Daddy must have bailed him out.
Grinning like the jerk he was, Troy said, “That slut? She gave me what she had been giving everyone else here. Right guys?”
They all agreed which made Alex fried. He lunged at Troy and punched him in the face, sending him staggering back against the front end of a Chrysler LeBaron.
Coming back at Alex, Troy tried to punch him, but Alex blocked it. Troy said, “Get him!” Alex got in punches at the boys who followed this delinquent, but he found himself being held by one anyway so that Troy could have his fun.
This was the point when things changed.
Michael moved in and said, “I don’t think you’re gonna get by with that move.” He, Max, and Kyle kicked in and proceeded to whoop major butt on the other four who stood there. Alex set free helped them and in the end they were all on the ground, fighting. Alex stood after looking at his friends and said, “Where did you come from?”
Michael said with a grin, “Your wife called…worried about you.”
Max wiped his mouth and said, “Friends are there for each other, Alex. And we are more like family. You should have called us before coming here.”
Kyle patted him on the back and said, “Let’s go have a beer.”
Alex said, “I need to stop by home first. Tess was pretty upset. She comes first. How are your other halves by the way?”
Michael said, “Isabel is great. She’s about three months along now and still chases around Amber.”
Kyle said, “Maria and I are good too. She’s just gained a manager position at the mall and is happy with it. She keeps the house spotless and keeps up with me so I can’t complain at all.”
Max said, “I’m I think the happiest. Liz just told me last night that she was pregnant with twins.”
Alex grinned and said, “Damn. Well, Tess and I are planning on having kids…but our goal is to wait until after law school. I’m about to graduate—it’s being put off for awhile now that Amy is needing my help, but by December, I’m guessing now, I should be past the homework and ready to take the bar exams.”
Michael said, “Ooh Mr. Whitman, Attorney at Law.”
Alex said, “You bet. I’ve earned it, I’ll tell you all that. Studied and crammed for seven years.”
Dusting off their shoes and watching as the boys took off, the four older boys drove on over to Duane Whitman’s so Alex could make amends with his pretty wife….
TBC…
The Roads We Take (UC, Teen to Mature) Book IV 4/4/05
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angelrose242000
- Enthusiastic Roswellian
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- Location: Max's bedroom
The Roads We Take (UC, Teen to Mature) Book IV 4/4/05
Last edited by angelrose242000 on Fri May 20, 2005 5:59 pm, edited 2 times in total.
"The truth is out there."
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angelrose242000
- Enthusiastic Roswellian
- Posts: 46
- Joined: Sun Apr 04, 2004 8:28 pm
- Location: Max's bedroom
The Roads We Take
The Roads We Take
Sequel to: Where Do We Go From Here?
By, Angelrose242000 and Roswell4Ever1
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
BOOK ONE—FAMILY TIES
By, Angelrose242000
Part Two: Mixed Emotions
The Next Day…
Amy walked into the house feeling awkward. Stuck in jail for two days was no picnic but at least there she had only Amy to face. Coming home meant facing the past, things she had done. She felt like the things she called herself to Alex, a let down to her family because of the choices she made. Depression was setting in over the amount of regrets she felt. All she wanted was to go to her room and shut the door, pull the blankets over her body and sleep. But she couldn’t—not yet. Dad, Alex, and Tess were helping her get settled and she had to at least stay for a minute or two.
Looking at Alex briefly, Amy thought how he was really sweet about this. He listened to her at the jail, yesterday, without calling her horrible names or judging her. He carried her things in for her and hadn’t lectured her on the way home about being in jail. He had been…Alex, her big brother and best friend. So far none of them had made put her down and she guessed it was thanks to Alex. He would understand what it was like to get mixed in with the wrong crowd. To make horrible mistakes and try to move on from them. Except right then, Amy didn’t know if she could see into that moving on…she was still facing the hard self-recriminating feelings of walking into the front door of the home she knew and had hurt everyone—mostly herself in. Now what was she supposed to do?
Hearing Tess’s laughter caused Amy to come back to this moment. Tess had been cool too, she knew. She didn’t press her or call her a bitch for not wanting to talk yesterday when she and Alex visited in jail. Dad…he held his head down as he had many times this past year as if he didn’t know what to say. Then he just got busy fixing lunch. Not looking at Amy for more than a few seconds. He’s ashamed, Amy thought to herself, feeling the impact of it hitting her, hurting. He did post bail for her though, telling the sheriff he trusted Amy wouldn’t leave town before the judge appearance on Friday—in just two days—which only hurt worse because he had said he trusted her, despite the things she had said and done, Amy knew.
Amy itched to get to her room…she just had to…so she grabbed her bags and said, “I’m…going to my room…” She eyed everyone briefly and left them alone.
Alone in the front room, Alex looked at his dad and said, “How you holding up, dad?” Duane said, “I’m holding. I know I’m supposed to go in there…but I just can’t.” Tess said, “I’d go…but she isn’t too up on that yet.” Alex let out a deep breath and said, “I’ll go.” Alex signaled for Tess to follow him to the kitchen and alone in there he added to Tess, “He’s taking it hard. Really hard.” Tess said, “He’s going to be okay, Alex. It’s just…” letting out a deep breath, Tess added, “a lot. A lot to face.” Alex said, “I was a lot to face. Even then he didn’t act this way. Tess he hasn’t said five words to her since picking her up today. I’m worried about him.” Tess moved into his arms saying, “You are a wonderful person, Alec Whitman. You are not responsible for what is going on with Amy. You’re not.” Alec smiled feeling better hearing her say that and said, “I love you, Tess.” Tess smiled brighter and said, “And I love you.” Alex leaned down and kissed Tess then said, “I’ve got to go see to my sister. Tess…She feels bad that she hurt you, Tess. It’s just a bad time.” Nodding, Tess said, “I understand.” Though it did hurt she knew Alex was a good choice to turn to. He was still Tess’s hero, she thought with a smile.
Amy had found her bed and was sitting Indian Style on it when Alex knocked on her bedroom door. Rolling her eyes, Amy said, “Come in Alex.” Alex opened the door and said with a brotherly grin, “How’d you know it was me?” Amy said, “I know your knocks, Alex. You have a certain style about it.” Alex smiled larger and said, “Really? I didn’t know that.” Getting more serious, he walked inside and shut the door. Looking at Amy he said, “Mind if I sit?”
Amy shrugged her shoulders slumpishly and said, “Haven’t before. Don’t now.” So Alex sat at the edge of her bed and looking at her he said, “Good. So why have you chosen to come in here practically right after getting home?” Amy eyed him sadly and said in an attempt to be strong, “Why’d you cut your hair?” It was said with a smile for a light mood, but wasn’t very effective. Realizing it, Amy said, “Come on, Alex. I don’t need you to baby sit me.”
Alex took that in and said, “I’m not trying to baby sit, Amy, but to…be here. Be here for you. Tess and I haven’t been home a lot this past year…I spent too much time pushing to get that degree and not enough time with you. I feel responsible for this, Amy and I’m sorry.”
Amy felt her throat constrict and lowered her head saying, “It wasn’t your fault, Alex…it was mine. I listened to stupid people, let them convince me to be something I wasn’t…got messed up.” Looking up at him firmly, Amy said, “But it had nothing to do with you and Tess living your lives in New York.” Alex scooted closer and put his arm around her shoulders, felt her lean in and said, “Thanks, Amy.” Amy said, “I’ve embarrassed everyone, the family, friends, everyone. Why…why did I do it?” Alex said, “I don’t know, Amy. Why did I deviate away from a life most kids look up to and lead a gang of punks for a year? Why did I go to parties and smoke pot…among other things? Why did I look dad in the eyes at seventeen and tell him to go to hell, that I was just fine? I think we’ve both been there, Amy.” Amy said, “It hurts in here,” she said holding her stomach, “knowing that I can’t look at Dad…that he doesn’t know what to say.” Alex said, “He’ll talk, Amy. Just give him time.” Amy said softly, “Alex can I tell you something?” Alex said, “Sure.” Amy spoke raggedly, feeling tears falling as she did, “Troy was the first guy I’d ever been with.” Alex wanted to beat the shit out of Troy again just for the hell of it, but said brotherly, “It’s okay, Amy.” Amy shook her head and felt more tears fall in anger now, “No it’s not. I didn’t want my first time to be in an upstairs bedroom at some crack house, Alex. It sounds stupidly romantic and you’ll laugh when I tell you what I wanted…” Shaking his head, Alex said, “No I won’t. I might pick on you, but not now. What did you want?” Amy rested her head on Alex’s shoulder and dreamed aloud, “I wanted a white knight to come along—not a perfect one—I wouldn’t be able to stomach perfection—but a decent guy. I wanted him to look at me and tell me I was beautiful, that he wanted to be with me forever, and I wanted to be able to go into a relationship with him together. I used to picture him carrying me to a bed with white sheets and pillows and saying he loved only me…” breaking down Amy said, “Now I’ll never have that. Never! It just hurts so bad, Alex.”
Alex held her close and said, “I’m sorry, Amy. I’m sorry your first time couldn’t be what you wanted. But that doesn’t mean…it doesn’t mean that you can’t have it with some other guy down the road. A good one that cares for you like that. You’ll have that knight, Amy. Don’t give up on it.” Amy said through tears, “I’ll never have my virginity back though.” Shaking his head, he said, “No. Neither will I. I haven’t had mine in years, Amy. I still managed to meet Tess, win her love, marry her and go on to college—all without it.” Tess said, “I always thought…I always thought she was your first.” Alex said, “She wasn’t. I wish she could have been, but she wasn’t. And she knew when she was with me that I’d been with other girls. She loved me anyway. Amy you will find someone who will love you regardless of this experience. He is out there.” Amy said, “There’s more to my misery. Alex…I know I was out of it when I was up in that dark room with him, but I know that I never saw him use anything. I’m scared that I could be pregnant…I’ve not even finished high school and I don’t know what I am going to do.” Alex put all those thoughts aside and said, “You’re going to lean on us as your family, regardless of what comes. Because family sticks together, Amy. Okay?” Looking up at him, Amy said, “Okay. Alex…what are you going to do with school?” Alex shrugged easily and said, “I’m…going to focus on my little sister and let school fall in a category down the road.” Amy broke into tears on her big brother’s shoulders and let the tears continue to fall….
TBC…
Sequel to: Where Do We Go From Here?
By, Angelrose242000 and Roswell4Ever1
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
BOOK ONE—FAMILY TIES
By, Angelrose242000
Part Two: Mixed Emotions
The Next Day…
Amy walked into the house feeling awkward. Stuck in jail for two days was no picnic but at least there she had only Amy to face. Coming home meant facing the past, things she had done. She felt like the things she called herself to Alex, a let down to her family because of the choices she made. Depression was setting in over the amount of regrets she felt. All she wanted was to go to her room and shut the door, pull the blankets over her body and sleep. But she couldn’t—not yet. Dad, Alex, and Tess were helping her get settled and she had to at least stay for a minute or two.
Looking at Alex briefly, Amy thought how he was really sweet about this. He listened to her at the jail, yesterday, without calling her horrible names or judging her. He carried her things in for her and hadn’t lectured her on the way home about being in jail. He had been…Alex, her big brother and best friend. So far none of them had made put her down and she guessed it was thanks to Alex. He would understand what it was like to get mixed in with the wrong crowd. To make horrible mistakes and try to move on from them. Except right then, Amy didn’t know if she could see into that moving on…she was still facing the hard self-recriminating feelings of walking into the front door of the home she knew and had hurt everyone—mostly herself in. Now what was she supposed to do?
Hearing Tess’s laughter caused Amy to come back to this moment. Tess had been cool too, she knew. She didn’t press her or call her a bitch for not wanting to talk yesterday when she and Alex visited in jail. Dad…he held his head down as he had many times this past year as if he didn’t know what to say. Then he just got busy fixing lunch. Not looking at Amy for more than a few seconds. He’s ashamed, Amy thought to herself, feeling the impact of it hitting her, hurting. He did post bail for her though, telling the sheriff he trusted Amy wouldn’t leave town before the judge appearance on Friday—in just two days—which only hurt worse because he had said he trusted her, despite the things she had said and done, Amy knew.
Amy itched to get to her room…she just had to…so she grabbed her bags and said, “I’m…going to my room…” She eyed everyone briefly and left them alone.
Alone in the front room, Alex looked at his dad and said, “How you holding up, dad?” Duane said, “I’m holding. I know I’m supposed to go in there…but I just can’t.” Tess said, “I’d go…but she isn’t too up on that yet.” Alex let out a deep breath and said, “I’ll go.” Alex signaled for Tess to follow him to the kitchen and alone in there he added to Tess, “He’s taking it hard. Really hard.” Tess said, “He’s going to be okay, Alex. It’s just…” letting out a deep breath, Tess added, “a lot. A lot to face.” Alex said, “I was a lot to face. Even then he didn’t act this way. Tess he hasn’t said five words to her since picking her up today. I’m worried about him.” Tess moved into his arms saying, “You are a wonderful person, Alec Whitman. You are not responsible for what is going on with Amy. You’re not.” Alec smiled feeling better hearing her say that and said, “I love you, Tess.” Tess smiled brighter and said, “And I love you.” Alex leaned down and kissed Tess then said, “I’ve got to go see to my sister. Tess…She feels bad that she hurt you, Tess. It’s just a bad time.” Nodding, Tess said, “I understand.” Though it did hurt she knew Alex was a good choice to turn to. He was still Tess’s hero, she thought with a smile.
Amy had found her bed and was sitting Indian Style on it when Alex knocked on her bedroom door. Rolling her eyes, Amy said, “Come in Alex.” Alex opened the door and said with a brotherly grin, “How’d you know it was me?” Amy said, “I know your knocks, Alex. You have a certain style about it.” Alex smiled larger and said, “Really? I didn’t know that.” Getting more serious, he walked inside and shut the door. Looking at Amy he said, “Mind if I sit?”
Amy shrugged her shoulders slumpishly and said, “Haven’t before. Don’t now.” So Alex sat at the edge of her bed and looking at her he said, “Good. So why have you chosen to come in here practically right after getting home?” Amy eyed him sadly and said in an attempt to be strong, “Why’d you cut your hair?” It was said with a smile for a light mood, but wasn’t very effective. Realizing it, Amy said, “Come on, Alex. I don’t need you to baby sit me.”
Alex took that in and said, “I’m not trying to baby sit, Amy, but to…be here. Be here for you. Tess and I haven’t been home a lot this past year…I spent too much time pushing to get that degree and not enough time with you. I feel responsible for this, Amy and I’m sorry.”
Amy felt her throat constrict and lowered her head saying, “It wasn’t your fault, Alex…it was mine. I listened to stupid people, let them convince me to be something I wasn’t…got messed up.” Looking up at him firmly, Amy said, “But it had nothing to do with you and Tess living your lives in New York.” Alex scooted closer and put his arm around her shoulders, felt her lean in and said, “Thanks, Amy.” Amy said, “I’ve embarrassed everyone, the family, friends, everyone. Why…why did I do it?” Alex said, “I don’t know, Amy. Why did I deviate away from a life most kids look up to and lead a gang of punks for a year? Why did I go to parties and smoke pot…among other things? Why did I look dad in the eyes at seventeen and tell him to go to hell, that I was just fine? I think we’ve both been there, Amy.” Amy said, “It hurts in here,” she said holding her stomach, “knowing that I can’t look at Dad…that he doesn’t know what to say.” Alex said, “He’ll talk, Amy. Just give him time.” Amy said softly, “Alex can I tell you something?” Alex said, “Sure.” Amy spoke raggedly, feeling tears falling as she did, “Troy was the first guy I’d ever been with.” Alex wanted to beat the shit out of Troy again just for the hell of it, but said brotherly, “It’s okay, Amy.” Amy shook her head and felt more tears fall in anger now, “No it’s not. I didn’t want my first time to be in an upstairs bedroom at some crack house, Alex. It sounds stupidly romantic and you’ll laugh when I tell you what I wanted…” Shaking his head, Alex said, “No I won’t. I might pick on you, but not now. What did you want?” Amy rested her head on Alex’s shoulder and dreamed aloud, “I wanted a white knight to come along—not a perfect one—I wouldn’t be able to stomach perfection—but a decent guy. I wanted him to look at me and tell me I was beautiful, that he wanted to be with me forever, and I wanted to be able to go into a relationship with him together. I used to picture him carrying me to a bed with white sheets and pillows and saying he loved only me…” breaking down Amy said, “Now I’ll never have that. Never! It just hurts so bad, Alex.”
Alex held her close and said, “I’m sorry, Amy. I’m sorry your first time couldn’t be what you wanted. But that doesn’t mean…it doesn’t mean that you can’t have it with some other guy down the road. A good one that cares for you like that. You’ll have that knight, Amy. Don’t give up on it.” Amy said through tears, “I’ll never have my virginity back though.” Shaking his head, he said, “No. Neither will I. I haven’t had mine in years, Amy. I still managed to meet Tess, win her love, marry her and go on to college—all without it.” Tess said, “I always thought…I always thought she was your first.” Alex said, “She wasn’t. I wish she could have been, but she wasn’t. And she knew when she was with me that I’d been with other girls. She loved me anyway. Amy you will find someone who will love you regardless of this experience. He is out there.” Amy said, “There’s more to my misery. Alex…I know I was out of it when I was up in that dark room with him, but I know that I never saw him use anything. I’m scared that I could be pregnant…I’ve not even finished high school and I don’t know what I am going to do.” Alex put all those thoughts aside and said, “You’re going to lean on us as your family, regardless of what comes. Because family sticks together, Amy. Okay?” Looking up at him, Amy said, “Okay. Alex…what are you going to do with school?” Alex shrugged easily and said, “I’m…going to focus on my little sister and let school fall in a category down the road.” Amy broke into tears on her big brother’s shoulders and let the tears continue to fall….
TBC…
"The truth is out there."
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angelrose242000
- Enthusiastic Roswellian
- Posts: 46
- Joined: Sun Apr 04, 2004 8:28 pm
- Location: Max's bedroom
The Roads We Take
The Roads We Take
Sequel to: Where Do We Go From Here?
By, Roswell4Ever1 and Angelrose242000
Disclaimer: I own NOTHING! Some characters are my creation for the story.
Book I—Family Ties
By, Angelrose242000
Part Three—Adjustments
Alex decided after spending an hour talking with Amy to forget the idea of hiring a P.I.. It sounded to him like no tangible case could come out if it—she had dated him for a year and wasn’t calling him horrible names—which led Alex to believe she cared about him. Maybe still did. Smearing the family to peruse a legal fight—though he was an aspiring lawyer—wouldn’t accomplish anything.
She was with the guy of free will. So Alex thought what he should do was focus on supporting his sister and helping her come out of this. Case closed.
Later that night though Amy walked out of her bedroom into the kitchen to grab a glass of juice. She met Tess sitting with Alex talking about something quietly. They continued on which left Amy relieved, as insecure as that was, that they weren’t talking about her.
Alex smiled and said as if nothing happened, “Tess and I were thinking of watching a movie. Wanna help pick?” Amy smiled back at Alex and said slyly, “Alex you know that if I help pick we’ll all be watching movies that make your skin crawl.” Alex said, “Oh well.” Amy grinned bigger and said, “Okay. But you asked for it.” So the three headed into the living room to pick movies for the night. In the middle of The Princess Bride, Alex knew he needed a break so he got up and headed outside. Lighting a smoke he watched cars going lazily down the street. How peaceful life in Roswell was, Alex thought. New York was wild, loud, and exciting at times, but not peaceful. Alex liked New York, but he sometimes missed Roswell for this reason. Now that he could unwind and just enjoy the quiet, Alex smiled and let himself do so.
Dad stepped out onto the porch and said, “What happened to the movie?” Alex grinned over at dad and said, “It’s still playing. I believe the princess is about to call once more for her beloved Wesley.” Alex laughed and said, “But Amy likes it so I guess…”
Duane walked to Alex, and standing he said, “She’s a romantic.” Alex said while grinning and taking another puff of his cigarette, “Nothing wrong with that. Tess is too.” Dad said fondly, “You and Tess…you’re about to come up on eight years now. I often wonder when I’m going to get a phone call about a baby on the way.”
Alex said with a wild grin, “We’re thinking about it, after graduation, after I’ve been at my new job long enough, when we are better on our feet. It seems we’re being outdone there though. Michael and Isabel have one and another on the way and Max just found out Liz is having twins. Tess and I aren’t in a hurry. We’re only twenty-six, we have time.”
Nodding, Duane said with a grin, “I know.”
Alex took another drag, letting the nicotine enter his system and enjoying how it relaxed him. Duane caught the smoking habit again, but didn’t’ want to criticize. He was a grown adult. Duane figured he knew the results of smoking. But he did say, “Thought you’d given them up, Alex.” It wasn’t nagging but merely speaking conversationally, shooting the breeze.
Alex said honestly, “Yeah, well. It’s been a stressful year.”
Duane asked, “School going okay?” The reminder had Alex saying with feeling, “It’s going fine. Just about done with it, finally. I was studying for finals day and night for days when we got your call.”
Dad caught Alex’s feelings on this and said, “I’m sorry Alex. It was wrong of me to expect you to come back before you were done.” Alex looked at him and said, “Dad, it’s okay. You needed my help. I would have been upset had you not called.”
Duane said, “You’re a good kid, Alex.”
Alex said, “Thanks, Dad,” even as he fought the part of him that wanted to contest that comment. Was he? Amy was his little sister and he hadn’t been there. It was eating at him, regrets from the past where he had to be big and bad that Amy apparently grew up liking.
Just then as if to add insult to injury, the cause of Amy’s recent pain pulled up on his Harley. Alex glared into his eyes. He muttered where only his dad could hear, “What the hell does he want?”
Duane said, “I don’t know, but play it cool, Alex.”
Alex only half listened to his notion, mostly he went on his own ire at what Troy had done to his sister. That known, Alex said seethingly, “Come back for more, Hilton?”
Troy Hilton was eye level with Alex in height with dark brown hair and green eyes. He was rough looking, wore a black leather jacket and attempted to be tough. Alex figured he was backed by friends and was all talk. He was game either way.
Troy climbed casually off his bike and attempted to be confident when really he was just a hotheaded punk, Alex thought. A hotheaded punk with bloodshot eyes. Alex’s disgust only grew larger. Troy spoke, “Yeah, maybe I did come back for more. I want to see Amy.”
Alex walked toward him and said, “Amy? You mean my seventeen year old baby sister that you put in danger, landing her in jail, while you putted around fancy free with your buddies? Just what the hell do you want with Amy…that you haven’t already taken that is?” Troy said, “Look I don’t have to explain myself to you, Whitman and I’m not gonna. I know your story. You were no angel yourself.” Alex said flatly, “Is that supposed to sting? This is Roswell a town of 500. Everyone knows me.”
Troy said, “Maybe I know you better. You see my big brother was sucked into believing you were something to look up to. All you did was prove what a yellow coward you were. Gotcha there didn’t I?” Alex’s eyes showed some emotion that wasn’t anger. He couldn’t’ help it. He was being insulted and brought back to a time when he himself wasn’t exactly stellar as a human being.
Alex said hotly, “I was eighteen years old.” Troy said, “Yeah. So was my brother, Scott who is serving time because you chose to inspire his girl into pursuing a case against him…one that to this day I can’t understand since she was screwing him all the time.” Alex didn’t question his moves, he went on honor and punched Troy in the mouth saying, “Whatever you were told by that delinquent brother of yours, Tess was not some slut. I was there the night of her rape. I know what went down, and now I know you. You went after my sister to get at me. Didn’t you?” Troy said levelly, “Why not? You went after Scott’s girl and took her to bed. Turn about, Whitman.”
In one fast move, Alex punched Troy in the gut, sending him to his knees as he said, “You son of a bitch! My sister was no toy to get back at me with! She was an innocent girl. She had nothing to do with what happened with your brother. You could have figured out where I was and just handled it through me, instead you went after her. Get out of here.” Troy said, “Wh-what? You can’t…” Alex said on a dry chuckle, “I can and I am.” He shoved him toward his bike as he said, “Go on. You come here again, I’m calling the cops and having you arrested for if nothing else, aggravated propaganda and illicit intentions with a minor.” Perturbed but baffled enough to buy into this comment, Troy got on his bike and said, “Don’t worry. I don’t need your sister anymore.” Just then Amy said, “She doesn’t need you either, you jerk!” Troy took off and dust was the only reminder of his being there.
Amy said softly, “Alex…thank you.” Alex said, “You’re welcome, Amy. Later…we will talk.” Nodding, Amy said, “Okay.” Alex kissed her cheek and looking beside her, he saw Tess who eyed him with tears in hers. She understood how he felt just as he felt the pain she must be experiencing over this ordeal. History coming back to haunt them.
Amy saw the expressions and looking toward the house she said, “Well I think I’m going on in for the night. Dad why don’t we finish watching that movie?” Duane was shocked—he felt for Alex and Tess—and hearing Amy offer a movie invite was almost too much. He nodded and smiled saying, “Sure. Let’s go.” They went inside together.
Alex walked to Tess and taking her hands in his, he said, “Take a walk with me?” It was a question. Tess nodded and smiled saying, “I will.” They headed on down the sidewalk, toward the park. It was a beautiful night, stars were spilled over the sky. As they walked, Alex said, “I had to get away for a little bit.” Nodding, putting her arm around his waist and leaning her head against his shoulder, Tess said, “I know. It’s okay. I like being alone with you.” She smiled and caught his smile back. He squeezed her shoulder and said, “I like it too.” Stopping at the edge of the park, Alex turned toward Tess and said, “Tess, I want you to know something. Something I hope you already know, but I need to say it anyway.” Touching her face he said, “I never went after you as a way of getting back at Scott.” Reaching for his face, Tess pulled Alex close and kissing him she said, “Alex I don’t think that.” Alex said, “Good. That kid said a lot of things and I don’t want you ever to believe that the reason I got with you was out of revenge.” Tess lowered her hands from his face and hair to his shirt. Looking up into his blue eyes, she said, “I don’t. I love you, Alex.” Alex tilted up Tess’s face and said, “I love you too, Tess.” He kissed her back gently, then pulling away he said, “I can’t help but think…” He trailed off. Tess said, “You can’t help but think what, Alex?” Tess asked stopping Alex’s pacing by touching his arm. Alex turned to Tess and said, “I cant help but think that maybe who I was at eighteen was so tempting to Amy that she went after someone just like it…and that my choices, to lead a damn gang like a moron, gave Scott’s half brother the fuel he needed to come at Amy. This all feels like some big chain that connects from the past—our past—and leads up to now.”
Tess said, “Amy did look up to you—probably still does, because you are her brother. Alex you aren’t a hoodlum—you weren’t then either. You are brave and caring and sweet.”
Alex grinned at Tess and said, “You are biased.” Tess looked into Alex’s blue eyes and said, “I suppose. Why do you think that is, Alex?”
Alex took Tess’s hand and led her deeper into the park, where it was shaded and by a tree they stood. He looked at her blue eyes and said, “Because…I am smart, sexy, and because I love you. You love me.”
Smiling, Tess tucked her hands on his blue flannel and said, “Yes, Alex, I do. Very much. You are smart and sexy, but even if you weren’t, I’d still love you.” Alex read the way she asked him to kiss her with her eyes and lowering his mouth he kissed Tess. It was gentle and sweet and had Tess holding his shirt and opening her mouth wider to take more. This little kiss only made her want to kiss him fully. Alex framed her face with his hand and reangling his kisses he kissed her deeper. Picking her up to sit on a picnic table, Alex moved closer and holding her against him he kept on kissing Tess, kissing her chin, her jaw, all down her neck. Tess was gone. She moved her face up to kiss his mouth again and as she did she pulled his flannel out of his blue jeans, yanking it off of him. Looking at his body in the shadows of nine PM darkness, Tess moved forward and kissed his opening on his tank top below his neck and above his chest. She kissed him all along that area, hearing his breathing, knowing he enjoyed this. Knowing she enjoyed his happiness.
Pulling his tank top out of his jeans, Tess slid her hands to the edge of it and at a moderate speed she slid it up over his chest, finally over his head so it fell on the ground. Alex grabbed her bottom and pulled her forward, moving himself so that their lower bodies connected through clothes, so that Tess felt his wants. Alex kissed her throat and said, “Tess…I know we’re in Rumbleweed Park, just one of the most talked about parks in Roswell, but I need you.”
Tess kissed him again and said, “I need you too.” With that, Tess pulled her violet shirt over her head and walking to him she unsnapped her bra from behind. Gently taking it off, Tess reached her jeans and unbuttoned and unzipped them, kicking htem off the rest of the way. Alex did the same with his jeans, pushing off his white boxers. Tess eyed her husband and slid off her white panties. Meeting in the middle, it was a joint combination. Alex grabbed Tess close to kiss her but Tess held on and at the feel of his kisses too her neck she murmured his name. Alex spoke back not verbally but expressively, picking her up and carrying her to the ground, beneath his body that was hot and wanting to connect with hers so bad he had to pause and realize fast and quick may not be what she wanted.
It was though. Tess kissed his mouth and feeling the part of him that she needed, Tess let out a noise that Alex recognized. He held her face up, framing her face with one hadn, her neck with the other and kissed her recklessly. Tess ran her hands over his chest, then around and down to his behind. Opening herself up for it, she said, “Alex…oh please come inside.” Alex kissed her harsher and did as she asked. He went into her. Tess held his shoulders, scratching htem some with her nails. On the ground, Alex made love to Tess. Here they could be as vocal and aggressive as they pleased. Alex held Tess’s hips and thighs where he could grip and while kissing her again and again on her lips, he moved as fast as he felt the desire to, inside. Tess held on and moved right along with him. Toward the end, Tess broke her mouth from Alex’s and tipped her head back, seeing pretty images and feeling a tightness within her that she knew the cause of and what the answer would be. Alex felt the change too and pushed harder feeling his body rising and aching and knowing what would cure it. Tess. He called out to her, moaned, all for her. Tess rose her thighs higher and said, “Oh, Alex…” She worked with him, feeling the incredible tug inside and needing to feel the reward to their efforts. Suddenly the ache turned to a desperate want and need for something more. Losing themselves in this need, Alex moved into Tess as fast and powerful as he could. Tess matched him, letting out sounds of agreement. Finally Tess felt her body reaching the top of a mountain and as if she were on skis going down a slope she held on to Alex and zoomed right on down the pike crying out her joy and exhiliration. Alex was right tehre with her, loudly breathing heavy and finally dropping down the pike behind her, holding her tight against him for even more and ridding all, he shared his release with the woman he loved. Tess held on and kissed him, tasting his lips and the incredible kiss he gave her right back that had her head held by his larger one, her body still warmly surrounded by his own. Tess smiled with Alex and in a timeless period, they stayed just this way….
Lying in the crook of his arm, Tess said, “What time is it?” Shrugging, Alex said, “Could be eleven, I guess. I’m not sure.” Tess replied, “Mmmm. Alex?” She asked. Alex said sleepily, “Yeah?” Tess touched his chest lovingly and said, “Can we…sleep…here?”
Alex readjusted and pulling Tess closer to him he said, “Don’t’ have much choice. I don’t have the energy to walk back.” Tess giggled and said, “Me either. I am worn out.” Alex’s last words were, “It…was worth it.” Nodding dreamily, Tess said, “It was. I…love you…Alex…” Alex kissed her hair and said, “I love you, Tess. Night.” Tess said, “Night.”
They fell asleep and let the night cover and ease away at its own will…
Dressed at eight that morning, Alex and Tess walked home, holding each other close. He said, “I forgot mornings in the summer here.” Tess stretched on the walk and said, “Not me. I remembered them. It’s pretty out today.” Alex turned in stride and said, “So are you.” He inched up her chin and kissed Tess. Tess held on and kissed him back. They continued the walk to the house. Alex said, “Tess we have to find time to get away like last night. I’m used to being alone with you, making love to you.” Scooting closer to his side, Tess stilled them and moving in front of him she said, “I know. I’m used to it too. But how are we going to explain it, to your dad, to Amy?”
Alex brought Tess’s lips to his and kissing her he said, “We’re married, Tess. Married people make love.” Tess said with a smile, “I know that too. I looked at you the night before last and wished we could sneak off together…not sure how to tell you. I’m not used to being apart either. I missed the closeness…to be honest I missed it all.” She blushed and Alex said, “Tonight and the remainder of our time here, we’ll come up with times, if you’re okay with it, Tess.” Tess smiled and said, “I’m okay with it. As long as we aren’t…cornered about it.”
Alex kissed her and said, “We won’t be.”…
Walking to the front door of the house, Alex opened it and held the screen door open for Tess. She walked in quietly with him. Since it was just after six, they tried to be quiet. Alex saw a moment when they were alone in the kitchen, he nudged her toward a crevice in the corner next to the cabinets to kiss her again! Giggling, Tess wrapped her arms around his neck and accepted his warm kiss saying after, “I love you too. Now…I have to take a shower.” Alex nearly whined saying, “Right now?” Grinning, Tess said, “I’ll be back in half an hour at the most…” Alex acted like he was letting her go then pulled her back, hearing her hyped giggle as he pulled her back to the crevice to kiss her. Tess gave up and wrapped her arms around his neck humming and kissing him back again and again. Finally Tess pushed him playfully back and said, “Shower. Please, Alex.” He saw her smile and smiled with her letting her go. About five minutes after Tess left for the shower, Dad came into the kitchen. Alex guessed he was giving them privacy and appreciated it…even though it did make him inwardly cringe knowing dad knew he was carrying on a sneaky love affair with his wife.
Dad walked to the coffee pot and made coffee then took out the toaster to make toast. Alex was already given the FYI about the Cocoa Pebbles so he grabbed a bowl and sat across from him. Silence was nice because of the awkwardness, Alex thought. Finally when enough time passed, Duane said, “Alex, you don’t have to sneak around to be with Tess.” Alex swallowed his last bite and said, “Tess and I aren’t the type that like to be showy. For one thing it is degrading on her and I won’t do that. For another, it’s private.”
Duane said, “I agree that it is a private matter. You have kept it that way since being together and I’ve always respected your ability to do that.” Alex smiled and siad, “Thanks, dad.” Nodding, Duane said, “Not to make you uncomfortable, Alex, but I just want you to know that no matter what is giong on here, I want you to continue your lives together, in all aspects. So does Amy, I’m sure.”
Alex said with a smile, “We are. Tess is telecommuting with her job by her laptop and has been practically since being back, the past couple of days.” Dad said, “You know what I mean.”
Alex said with a chuckle that was pure good natured humor, “Yeah. I do. This is our sex talk again. Except now you are encouraging us to have sex. That is a new deal. Should I look around the corner to see that Amy isn’t listening?”
At dad’s long look, Alex let that set in and said, “Oh damn, I’m sorry. I wasn’t thinking.”
Dad said, “You didn’t offend me, Alex.” Nodding, Alex said, “Good. Now where were we?”
Dad said, “Sex topic. You and Tess should be able to be together without having to worry that one of us is going to pick up on it.” Alex said, “I agree that we should. We will continue to be together, dad. You aren’t keeping us from it.” Relieved, he said, “I’m glad. Now new topic.”
Spotting Amy, Alex said, “Dad I need to talk with Amy. Can we talk more later?” Nodding, Duane said, “Sure.” Alex cornered Amy and said, “Outside?” Agreeing, Amy said, “Okay, but I’ve not gotten my Pepsi yet.” Taking a turn for the fridge, Alex siad, “Here.” He tossed her one and they walked out the kitchen door, to the back porch, to be alone….
Seated on chairs on the back proch, Alex began, “First of all have you heard about when you can take summer classes?” Amy said, “Two weeks.” Nodding, Alex said, “Good. I’m getting a rental today so either dad or I can take you, if you want.” Amy said, “I have my own car, Alex. The Ford Pickup.”
Remembering, Alex said, “Oh…yeah. Amy I am sorry that you had to be a pawn in some revenge deal with me and Troy’s family.” Detecting a sad conversation coming on, Amy said, “Alex…” Alex said, “I never wanted that. You are no slut either for getting together with him. You trusted him, cared for him.” Amy said, “I don’t know how I felt for him, Alex. All I know is I let myself be stupid. I did disgusting things I’m ashamed of now. I went down on him in my own bed upstairs.” Alex said, “You woudlnt’ have done that had you not cared about him. I know you, Amy.” Amy’s eyes filled with tears as she said, “I was working up toward having sex with him the past few months, but…I just wasn’t ready. I was scared.” Alex said, “It is okay to be scared. He shouldn’t have pressured you into it. That wasn’t a good boyfriend. A good boyfriend would have waited until you were ready.”
Wiping her eyes, Amy said, “I guess. I guess so.”
Three Months Later…
July 6, 2008
Amy was in the bathroom vomitting again. She’d started this a few weeks ago and had a good idea wh at it meant. She so far had kept quiet about it, cleaning up and spraying Febreeze in the bathroom following eachtime, but somehow she worried they knew.
When two more weeks went by, Amy felt she was walking around the house with this giant secret that only she knew. Conflicted, Amy moped about and watched the soaps, terrified that it would come out when she least expected it and hse would have to say something. BY now she had already gone through Summer school and passed and had her diploma hanging on her bedroom wall. Dad seemed pleased, so did Alex and Tess. Amy was elated. Regardless of what happened last April, she still had a diploma and could go to college. For four weeks she had to serve probation following the judge’s ruling but fortunately that was past too. She swore she wouldn’t get wrapped up in that mess ever again and meant it.
Finally at this point where she felt confident again about some things, Amy wished she could know for sure about this secret…it festered and was miserable not knowing but beign too petrified to find out she tried to put it off a little longer….
Meanwhile, Alex and Tess were continuing to spend their days beign big brohter and sister to Amy and their evenings and nights in each other’s arms at various places that were private. Tonight was another night…
Sneaking off at nine-thirty that Friday night, Alex and Tess went for a drive to the a small forested area outside Roswell. Parking, they climbed out and walked inside. It was shaded, fairly dark, and theirs for tonight. Alex said, “What do you think of Amy?” Tess smiled and said, “I think she is doing much better.” Alex said, “Me too.” Tess said, “I think she is hiding something.” Alex said with a grimace, “I was hoping I was the only one who noticed that. That maybe I was being paranoid.” Shaking her head, Tess siad, “Nope. Not this time, Alex. There is something…I’m not sure what. But eventually we’ll know what it is.” Alex said, “I’ll try and talk with her tomorrow. See if hse’ll tell me.” Tess said, “Okay. If not, I’m good to talk to her.” Agreeing, they turned focus on tonight.
Alex and Tess spent the night in each other’s arms, making love. They awoke two times and were together again. Over the course of the last three months, Alex and Tess had become regular at finding time to be alone. Different times of the day or night, more than at home! It was like how it was their first year together when they had total freedom to be together whenever and wherever they pleased. Alex was generally a raincoat guy, but there were times when that wasn’t possible, when they were together as Alex and Tess and counted on the pill being enough.
Putting that aside because Amy was more important, Alex and Tess focused on finding out what she was hiding—they felt they’d been together long enough to be sure of being safe….
The following morning, Alex and Tess found Amy folding clothes in the living room while watching Victor Newman on tape. Alex said, “Amy can we talk a few minutes?” Nodding, Amy said, “Sure. Okay.” She turned off the TV. Tess and Alex sat on the couch across from Amy who sat in the middle of the floor folding. Tess said, “When we’re done talking, I can help fold if you like.” Shrugging, Amy said, “You don’t have to, Tess. I’ve got it. Most of these things were mine anyway.”
Alex noted that Dad was gone so this gave them the place to themselves. Amy said nervously, “What is it?” Alex eyed his sister and said, “Amy we just get the feeling…that you are keeping a secret from us.” When he and Tess saw Amy’s head lowering they were sure of it. Amy said, “It’s nothing…nothing either of you can take care of.”
Tess said, “Maybe not…but it doesn’t hurt to talk about it, to your fellow Musketeers.” Grinning, Amy said, “I remember that too. We were the three musketeers.” Alex said, “We still are. What is it, Amy?”
Amy let out a deep breath and said, “Alex you remember me telling you about my first time?” Nodding, Alex said, “Yeah? I remember. I still want to beat his butt for ruining it for you.” He got a few more punches in, even if it wasn’t a thorough whipping. Alex felt he had been lied to and for that he felt sorry for him, but he did not feel sorry for his using Amy. He knew what he was doing there. Putting this away for now, he said, “What about it, Amy?”
Amy felt her brother and sister’s eyes on her as she said with her head down, “I know now that he didn’t use anything…because I’m pregnant.”
Amy looked up and met Alex’s eyes and said, “I don’t want his help, so please don’t go to his house and insist he do something. At this point…I’d rather forget about him. Especially after the things he said when he was here that night.” Catching Alex’s surprise, Amy being so paranoid these days took it as he thought she expected him to figure out what to do. Amy said, “Alex relax. I will handle this. I figure I’ll go to NYU like you both did, get a place on campus for single parents and be just fine.” Tess said, “You don’t have to do this alone, Amy.” Amy said, “I’ll manage. I don’t want either of you to stop your lives anymore because of Poor Little Amy. You have obligations, you have responsibilities. No matter what a jerk Troy was, I chose to be with him for a year, so I will work this out. I’ve done some checking and I know they help single mothers.” Seeing their mutually surprised and impressed looks, Amy said, “I’ve suspected it for a little while.”
Alex said, “We’ll be getting a place, hopefully soon after I graduate. You can come hang out with us whenever you want, Amy.” Nodding, Amy said, “I know. And I probably will.” Amy didn’t cry. She was focused and sure about this. It was very mature and impressive. She looked at Alex and said, “I also called NYU and found out that you can go in and take your finals as soon as next week because of where the terms fall.” When he hedged, Amy said, “Alex! I am fine. I’m not going to be any less pregnant a week from now than I am now. Go. Take your finals.” Alex walked to Amy and hugged her saying, “I will. Then when I come back I’ll help you get ready for next month.” Amy smiled and said, “I knew you would. I love you, Alex. Tess. I love you too.” Tess hugged her next and said, “You contact NYU for you yet?” Nodding, Amy said, “I sent transcripts to them last January. They were a place I was thinking of attending. I’ve been accepted recently—I double checked and found out they were okay with single family students.” Nodding, Tess said, “They are. There are several students on campus that are single parents, Amy. You won’t be alone. And we will hopefully be close enough to the campus when we get our house that you can visit. Until then, we have our apartment on Dixon Street.”
So Alex was going to go to NYU next week and take his finals and Amy would attend next month as a freshman. Alex and Tess would be near and help her however they could. College, the Musketeer reunion bond, Amy’s return to her old self, everything was improving it seemed. Things were finally getting back where they should be….
TBC.
Sequel to: Where Do We Go From Here?
By, Roswell4Ever1 and Angelrose242000
Disclaimer: I own NOTHING! Some characters are my creation for the story.
Book I—Family Ties
By, Angelrose242000
Part Three—Adjustments
Alex decided after spending an hour talking with Amy to forget the idea of hiring a P.I.. It sounded to him like no tangible case could come out if it—she had dated him for a year and wasn’t calling him horrible names—which led Alex to believe she cared about him. Maybe still did. Smearing the family to peruse a legal fight—though he was an aspiring lawyer—wouldn’t accomplish anything.
She was with the guy of free will. So Alex thought what he should do was focus on supporting his sister and helping her come out of this. Case closed.
Later that night though Amy walked out of her bedroom into the kitchen to grab a glass of juice. She met Tess sitting with Alex talking about something quietly. They continued on which left Amy relieved, as insecure as that was, that they weren’t talking about her.
Alex smiled and said as if nothing happened, “Tess and I were thinking of watching a movie. Wanna help pick?” Amy smiled back at Alex and said slyly, “Alex you know that if I help pick we’ll all be watching movies that make your skin crawl.” Alex said, “Oh well.” Amy grinned bigger and said, “Okay. But you asked for it.” So the three headed into the living room to pick movies for the night. In the middle of The Princess Bride, Alex knew he needed a break so he got up and headed outside. Lighting a smoke he watched cars going lazily down the street. How peaceful life in Roswell was, Alex thought. New York was wild, loud, and exciting at times, but not peaceful. Alex liked New York, but he sometimes missed Roswell for this reason. Now that he could unwind and just enjoy the quiet, Alex smiled and let himself do so.
Dad stepped out onto the porch and said, “What happened to the movie?” Alex grinned over at dad and said, “It’s still playing. I believe the princess is about to call once more for her beloved Wesley.” Alex laughed and said, “But Amy likes it so I guess…”
Duane walked to Alex, and standing he said, “She’s a romantic.” Alex said while grinning and taking another puff of his cigarette, “Nothing wrong with that. Tess is too.” Dad said fondly, “You and Tess…you’re about to come up on eight years now. I often wonder when I’m going to get a phone call about a baby on the way.”
Alex said with a wild grin, “We’re thinking about it, after graduation, after I’ve been at my new job long enough, when we are better on our feet. It seems we’re being outdone there though. Michael and Isabel have one and another on the way and Max just found out Liz is having twins. Tess and I aren’t in a hurry. We’re only twenty-six, we have time.”
Nodding, Duane said with a grin, “I know.”
Alex took another drag, letting the nicotine enter his system and enjoying how it relaxed him. Duane caught the smoking habit again, but didn’t’ want to criticize. He was a grown adult. Duane figured he knew the results of smoking. But he did say, “Thought you’d given them up, Alex.” It wasn’t nagging but merely speaking conversationally, shooting the breeze.
Alex said honestly, “Yeah, well. It’s been a stressful year.”
Duane asked, “School going okay?” The reminder had Alex saying with feeling, “It’s going fine. Just about done with it, finally. I was studying for finals day and night for days when we got your call.”
Dad caught Alex’s feelings on this and said, “I’m sorry Alex. It was wrong of me to expect you to come back before you were done.” Alex looked at him and said, “Dad, it’s okay. You needed my help. I would have been upset had you not called.”
Duane said, “You’re a good kid, Alex.”
Alex said, “Thanks, Dad,” even as he fought the part of him that wanted to contest that comment. Was he? Amy was his little sister and he hadn’t been there. It was eating at him, regrets from the past where he had to be big and bad that Amy apparently grew up liking.
Just then as if to add insult to injury, the cause of Amy’s recent pain pulled up on his Harley. Alex glared into his eyes. He muttered where only his dad could hear, “What the hell does he want?”
Duane said, “I don’t know, but play it cool, Alex.”
Alex only half listened to his notion, mostly he went on his own ire at what Troy had done to his sister. That known, Alex said seethingly, “Come back for more, Hilton?”
Troy Hilton was eye level with Alex in height with dark brown hair and green eyes. He was rough looking, wore a black leather jacket and attempted to be tough. Alex figured he was backed by friends and was all talk. He was game either way.
Troy climbed casually off his bike and attempted to be confident when really he was just a hotheaded punk, Alex thought. A hotheaded punk with bloodshot eyes. Alex’s disgust only grew larger. Troy spoke, “Yeah, maybe I did come back for more. I want to see Amy.”
Alex walked toward him and said, “Amy? You mean my seventeen year old baby sister that you put in danger, landing her in jail, while you putted around fancy free with your buddies? Just what the hell do you want with Amy…that you haven’t already taken that is?” Troy said, “Look I don’t have to explain myself to you, Whitman and I’m not gonna. I know your story. You were no angel yourself.” Alex said flatly, “Is that supposed to sting? This is Roswell a town of 500. Everyone knows me.”
Troy said, “Maybe I know you better. You see my big brother was sucked into believing you were something to look up to. All you did was prove what a yellow coward you were. Gotcha there didn’t I?” Alex’s eyes showed some emotion that wasn’t anger. He couldn’t’ help it. He was being insulted and brought back to a time when he himself wasn’t exactly stellar as a human being.
Alex said hotly, “I was eighteen years old.” Troy said, “Yeah. So was my brother, Scott who is serving time because you chose to inspire his girl into pursuing a case against him…one that to this day I can’t understand since she was screwing him all the time.” Alex didn’t question his moves, he went on honor and punched Troy in the mouth saying, “Whatever you were told by that delinquent brother of yours, Tess was not some slut. I was there the night of her rape. I know what went down, and now I know you. You went after my sister to get at me. Didn’t you?” Troy said levelly, “Why not? You went after Scott’s girl and took her to bed. Turn about, Whitman.”
In one fast move, Alex punched Troy in the gut, sending him to his knees as he said, “You son of a bitch! My sister was no toy to get back at me with! She was an innocent girl. She had nothing to do with what happened with your brother. You could have figured out where I was and just handled it through me, instead you went after her. Get out of here.” Troy said, “Wh-what? You can’t…” Alex said on a dry chuckle, “I can and I am.” He shoved him toward his bike as he said, “Go on. You come here again, I’m calling the cops and having you arrested for if nothing else, aggravated propaganda and illicit intentions with a minor.” Perturbed but baffled enough to buy into this comment, Troy got on his bike and said, “Don’t worry. I don’t need your sister anymore.” Just then Amy said, “She doesn’t need you either, you jerk!” Troy took off and dust was the only reminder of his being there.
Amy said softly, “Alex…thank you.” Alex said, “You’re welcome, Amy. Later…we will talk.” Nodding, Amy said, “Okay.” Alex kissed her cheek and looking beside her, he saw Tess who eyed him with tears in hers. She understood how he felt just as he felt the pain she must be experiencing over this ordeal. History coming back to haunt them.
Amy saw the expressions and looking toward the house she said, “Well I think I’m going on in for the night. Dad why don’t we finish watching that movie?” Duane was shocked—he felt for Alex and Tess—and hearing Amy offer a movie invite was almost too much. He nodded and smiled saying, “Sure. Let’s go.” They went inside together.
Alex walked to Tess and taking her hands in his, he said, “Take a walk with me?” It was a question. Tess nodded and smiled saying, “I will.” They headed on down the sidewalk, toward the park. It was a beautiful night, stars were spilled over the sky. As they walked, Alex said, “I had to get away for a little bit.” Nodding, putting her arm around his waist and leaning her head against his shoulder, Tess said, “I know. It’s okay. I like being alone with you.” She smiled and caught his smile back. He squeezed her shoulder and said, “I like it too.” Stopping at the edge of the park, Alex turned toward Tess and said, “Tess, I want you to know something. Something I hope you already know, but I need to say it anyway.” Touching her face he said, “I never went after you as a way of getting back at Scott.” Reaching for his face, Tess pulled Alex close and kissing him she said, “Alex I don’t think that.” Alex said, “Good. That kid said a lot of things and I don’t want you ever to believe that the reason I got with you was out of revenge.” Tess lowered her hands from his face and hair to his shirt. Looking up into his blue eyes, she said, “I don’t. I love you, Alex.” Alex tilted up Tess’s face and said, “I love you too, Tess.” He kissed her back gently, then pulling away he said, “I can’t help but think…” He trailed off. Tess said, “You can’t help but think what, Alex?” Tess asked stopping Alex’s pacing by touching his arm. Alex turned to Tess and said, “I cant help but think that maybe who I was at eighteen was so tempting to Amy that she went after someone just like it…and that my choices, to lead a damn gang like a moron, gave Scott’s half brother the fuel he needed to come at Amy. This all feels like some big chain that connects from the past—our past—and leads up to now.”
Tess said, “Amy did look up to you—probably still does, because you are her brother. Alex you aren’t a hoodlum—you weren’t then either. You are brave and caring and sweet.”
Alex grinned at Tess and said, “You are biased.” Tess looked into Alex’s blue eyes and said, “I suppose. Why do you think that is, Alex?”
Alex took Tess’s hand and led her deeper into the park, where it was shaded and by a tree they stood. He looked at her blue eyes and said, “Because…I am smart, sexy, and because I love you. You love me.”
Smiling, Tess tucked her hands on his blue flannel and said, “Yes, Alex, I do. Very much. You are smart and sexy, but even if you weren’t, I’d still love you.” Alex read the way she asked him to kiss her with her eyes and lowering his mouth he kissed Tess. It was gentle and sweet and had Tess holding his shirt and opening her mouth wider to take more. This little kiss only made her want to kiss him fully. Alex framed her face with his hand and reangling his kisses he kissed her deeper. Picking her up to sit on a picnic table, Alex moved closer and holding her against him he kept on kissing Tess, kissing her chin, her jaw, all down her neck. Tess was gone. She moved her face up to kiss his mouth again and as she did she pulled his flannel out of his blue jeans, yanking it off of him. Looking at his body in the shadows of nine PM darkness, Tess moved forward and kissed his opening on his tank top below his neck and above his chest. She kissed him all along that area, hearing his breathing, knowing he enjoyed this. Knowing she enjoyed his happiness.
Pulling his tank top out of his jeans, Tess slid her hands to the edge of it and at a moderate speed she slid it up over his chest, finally over his head so it fell on the ground. Alex grabbed her bottom and pulled her forward, moving himself so that their lower bodies connected through clothes, so that Tess felt his wants. Alex kissed her throat and said, “Tess…I know we’re in Rumbleweed Park, just one of the most talked about parks in Roswell, but I need you.”
Tess kissed him again and said, “I need you too.” With that, Tess pulled her violet shirt over her head and walking to him she unsnapped her bra from behind. Gently taking it off, Tess reached her jeans and unbuttoned and unzipped them, kicking htem off the rest of the way. Alex did the same with his jeans, pushing off his white boxers. Tess eyed her husband and slid off her white panties. Meeting in the middle, it was a joint combination. Alex grabbed Tess close to kiss her but Tess held on and at the feel of his kisses too her neck she murmured his name. Alex spoke back not verbally but expressively, picking her up and carrying her to the ground, beneath his body that was hot and wanting to connect with hers so bad he had to pause and realize fast and quick may not be what she wanted.
It was though. Tess kissed his mouth and feeling the part of him that she needed, Tess let out a noise that Alex recognized. He held her face up, framing her face with one hadn, her neck with the other and kissed her recklessly. Tess ran her hands over his chest, then around and down to his behind. Opening herself up for it, she said, “Alex…oh please come inside.” Alex kissed her harsher and did as she asked. He went into her. Tess held his shoulders, scratching htem some with her nails. On the ground, Alex made love to Tess. Here they could be as vocal and aggressive as they pleased. Alex held Tess’s hips and thighs where he could grip and while kissing her again and again on her lips, he moved as fast as he felt the desire to, inside. Tess held on and moved right along with him. Toward the end, Tess broke her mouth from Alex’s and tipped her head back, seeing pretty images and feeling a tightness within her that she knew the cause of and what the answer would be. Alex felt the change too and pushed harder feeling his body rising and aching and knowing what would cure it. Tess. He called out to her, moaned, all for her. Tess rose her thighs higher and said, “Oh, Alex…” She worked with him, feeling the incredible tug inside and needing to feel the reward to their efforts. Suddenly the ache turned to a desperate want and need for something more. Losing themselves in this need, Alex moved into Tess as fast and powerful as he could. Tess matched him, letting out sounds of agreement. Finally Tess felt her body reaching the top of a mountain and as if she were on skis going down a slope she held on to Alex and zoomed right on down the pike crying out her joy and exhiliration. Alex was right tehre with her, loudly breathing heavy and finally dropping down the pike behind her, holding her tight against him for even more and ridding all, he shared his release with the woman he loved. Tess held on and kissed him, tasting his lips and the incredible kiss he gave her right back that had her head held by his larger one, her body still warmly surrounded by his own. Tess smiled with Alex and in a timeless period, they stayed just this way….
Lying in the crook of his arm, Tess said, “What time is it?” Shrugging, Alex said, “Could be eleven, I guess. I’m not sure.” Tess replied, “Mmmm. Alex?” She asked. Alex said sleepily, “Yeah?” Tess touched his chest lovingly and said, “Can we…sleep…here?”
Alex readjusted and pulling Tess closer to him he said, “Don’t’ have much choice. I don’t have the energy to walk back.” Tess giggled and said, “Me either. I am worn out.” Alex’s last words were, “It…was worth it.” Nodding dreamily, Tess said, “It was. I…love you…Alex…” Alex kissed her hair and said, “I love you, Tess. Night.” Tess said, “Night.”
They fell asleep and let the night cover and ease away at its own will…
Dressed at eight that morning, Alex and Tess walked home, holding each other close. He said, “I forgot mornings in the summer here.” Tess stretched on the walk and said, “Not me. I remembered them. It’s pretty out today.” Alex turned in stride and said, “So are you.” He inched up her chin and kissed Tess. Tess held on and kissed him back. They continued the walk to the house. Alex said, “Tess we have to find time to get away like last night. I’m used to being alone with you, making love to you.” Scooting closer to his side, Tess stilled them and moving in front of him she said, “I know. I’m used to it too. But how are we going to explain it, to your dad, to Amy?”
Alex brought Tess’s lips to his and kissing her he said, “We’re married, Tess. Married people make love.” Tess said with a smile, “I know that too. I looked at you the night before last and wished we could sneak off together…not sure how to tell you. I’m not used to being apart either. I missed the closeness…to be honest I missed it all.” She blushed and Alex said, “Tonight and the remainder of our time here, we’ll come up with times, if you’re okay with it, Tess.” Tess smiled and said, “I’m okay with it. As long as we aren’t…cornered about it.”
Alex kissed her and said, “We won’t be.”…
Walking to the front door of the house, Alex opened it and held the screen door open for Tess. She walked in quietly with him. Since it was just after six, they tried to be quiet. Alex saw a moment when they were alone in the kitchen, he nudged her toward a crevice in the corner next to the cabinets to kiss her again! Giggling, Tess wrapped her arms around his neck and accepted his warm kiss saying after, “I love you too. Now…I have to take a shower.” Alex nearly whined saying, “Right now?” Grinning, Tess said, “I’ll be back in half an hour at the most…” Alex acted like he was letting her go then pulled her back, hearing her hyped giggle as he pulled her back to the crevice to kiss her. Tess gave up and wrapped her arms around his neck humming and kissing him back again and again. Finally Tess pushed him playfully back and said, “Shower. Please, Alex.” He saw her smile and smiled with her letting her go. About five minutes after Tess left for the shower, Dad came into the kitchen. Alex guessed he was giving them privacy and appreciated it…even though it did make him inwardly cringe knowing dad knew he was carrying on a sneaky love affair with his wife.
Dad walked to the coffee pot and made coffee then took out the toaster to make toast. Alex was already given the FYI about the Cocoa Pebbles so he grabbed a bowl and sat across from him. Silence was nice because of the awkwardness, Alex thought. Finally when enough time passed, Duane said, “Alex, you don’t have to sneak around to be with Tess.” Alex swallowed his last bite and said, “Tess and I aren’t the type that like to be showy. For one thing it is degrading on her and I won’t do that. For another, it’s private.”
Duane said, “I agree that it is a private matter. You have kept it that way since being together and I’ve always respected your ability to do that.” Alex smiled and siad, “Thanks, dad.” Nodding, Duane said, “Not to make you uncomfortable, Alex, but I just want you to know that no matter what is giong on here, I want you to continue your lives together, in all aspects. So does Amy, I’m sure.”
Alex said with a smile, “We are. Tess is telecommuting with her job by her laptop and has been practically since being back, the past couple of days.” Dad said, “You know what I mean.”
Alex said with a chuckle that was pure good natured humor, “Yeah. I do. This is our sex talk again. Except now you are encouraging us to have sex. That is a new deal. Should I look around the corner to see that Amy isn’t listening?”
At dad’s long look, Alex let that set in and said, “Oh damn, I’m sorry. I wasn’t thinking.”
Dad said, “You didn’t offend me, Alex.” Nodding, Alex said, “Good. Now where were we?”
Dad said, “Sex topic. You and Tess should be able to be together without having to worry that one of us is going to pick up on it.” Alex said, “I agree that we should. We will continue to be together, dad. You aren’t keeping us from it.” Relieved, he said, “I’m glad. Now new topic.”
Spotting Amy, Alex said, “Dad I need to talk with Amy. Can we talk more later?” Nodding, Duane said, “Sure.” Alex cornered Amy and said, “Outside?” Agreeing, Amy said, “Okay, but I’ve not gotten my Pepsi yet.” Taking a turn for the fridge, Alex siad, “Here.” He tossed her one and they walked out the kitchen door, to the back porch, to be alone….
Seated on chairs on the back proch, Alex began, “First of all have you heard about when you can take summer classes?” Amy said, “Two weeks.” Nodding, Alex said, “Good. I’m getting a rental today so either dad or I can take you, if you want.” Amy said, “I have my own car, Alex. The Ford Pickup.”
Remembering, Alex said, “Oh…yeah. Amy I am sorry that you had to be a pawn in some revenge deal with me and Troy’s family.” Detecting a sad conversation coming on, Amy said, “Alex…” Alex said, “I never wanted that. You are no slut either for getting together with him. You trusted him, cared for him.” Amy said, “I don’t know how I felt for him, Alex. All I know is I let myself be stupid. I did disgusting things I’m ashamed of now. I went down on him in my own bed upstairs.” Alex said, “You woudlnt’ have done that had you not cared about him. I know you, Amy.” Amy’s eyes filled with tears as she said, “I was working up toward having sex with him the past few months, but…I just wasn’t ready. I was scared.” Alex said, “It is okay to be scared. He shouldn’t have pressured you into it. That wasn’t a good boyfriend. A good boyfriend would have waited until you were ready.”
Wiping her eyes, Amy said, “I guess. I guess so.”
Three Months Later…
July 6, 2008
Amy was in the bathroom vomitting again. She’d started this a few weeks ago and had a good idea wh at it meant. She so far had kept quiet about it, cleaning up and spraying Febreeze in the bathroom following eachtime, but somehow she worried they knew.
When two more weeks went by, Amy felt she was walking around the house with this giant secret that only she knew. Conflicted, Amy moped about and watched the soaps, terrified that it would come out when she least expected it and hse would have to say something. BY now she had already gone through Summer school and passed and had her diploma hanging on her bedroom wall. Dad seemed pleased, so did Alex and Tess. Amy was elated. Regardless of what happened last April, she still had a diploma and could go to college. For four weeks she had to serve probation following the judge’s ruling but fortunately that was past too. She swore she wouldn’t get wrapped up in that mess ever again and meant it.
Finally at this point where she felt confident again about some things, Amy wished she could know for sure about this secret…it festered and was miserable not knowing but beign too petrified to find out she tried to put it off a little longer….
Meanwhile, Alex and Tess were continuing to spend their days beign big brohter and sister to Amy and their evenings and nights in each other’s arms at various places that were private. Tonight was another night…
Sneaking off at nine-thirty that Friday night, Alex and Tess went for a drive to the a small forested area outside Roswell. Parking, they climbed out and walked inside. It was shaded, fairly dark, and theirs for tonight. Alex said, “What do you think of Amy?” Tess smiled and said, “I think she is doing much better.” Alex said, “Me too.” Tess said, “I think she is hiding something.” Alex said with a grimace, “I was hoping I was the only one who noticed that. That maybe I was being paranoid.” Shaking her head, Tess siad, “Nope. Not this time, Alex. There is something…I’m not sure what. But eventually we’ll know what it is.” Alex said, “I’ll try and talk with her tomorrow. See if hse’ll tell me.” Tess said, “Okay. If not, I’m good to talk to her.” Agreeing, they turned focus on tonight.
Alex and Tess spent the night in each other’s arms, making love. They awoke two times and were together again. Over the course of the last three months, Alex and Tess had become regular at finding time to be alone. Different times of the day or night, more than at home! It was like how it was their first year together when they had total freedom to be together whenever and wherever they pleased. Alex was generally a raincoat guy, but there were times when that wasn’t possible, when they were together as Alex and Tess and counted on the pill being enough.
Putting that aside because Amy was more important, Alex and Tess focused on finding out what she was hiding—they felt they’d been together long enough to be sure of being safe….
The following morning, Alex and Tess found Amy folding clothes in the living room while watching Victor Newman on tape. Alex said, “Amy can we talk a few minutes?” Nodding, Amy said, “Sure. Okay.” She turned off the TV. Tess and Alex sat on the couch across from Amy who sat in the middle of the floor folding. Tess said, “When we’re done talking, I can help fold if you like.” Shrugging, Amy said, “You don’t have to, Tess. I’ve got it. Most of these things were mine anyway.”
Alex noted that Dad was gone so this gave them the place to themselves. Amy said nervously, “What is it?” Alex eyed his sister and said, “Amy we just get the feeling…that you are keeping a secret from us.” When he and Tess saw Amy’s head lowering they were sure of it. Amy said, “It’s nothing…nothing either of you can take care of.”
Tess said, “Maybe not…but it doesn’t hurt to talk about it, to your fellow Musketeers.” Grinning, Amy said, “I remember that too. We were the three musketeers.” Alex said, “We still are. What is it, Amy?”
Amy let out a deep breath and said, “Alex you remember me telling you about my first time?” Nodding, Alex said, “Yeah? I remember. I still want to beat his butt for ruining it for you.” He got a few more punches in, even if it wasn’t a thorough whipping. Alex felt he had been lied to and for that he felt sorry for him, but he did not feel sorry for his using Amy. He knew what he was doing there. Putting this away for now, he said, “What about it, Amy?”
Amy felt her brother and sister’s eyes on her as she said with her head down, “I know now that he didn’t use anything…because I’m pregnant.”
Amy looked up and met Alex’s eyes and said, “I don’t want his help, so please don’t go to his house and insist he do something. At this point…I’d rather forget about him. Especially after the things he said when he was here that night.” Catching Alex’s surprise, Amy being so paranoid these days took it as he thought she expected him to figure out what to do. Amy said, “Alex relax. I will handle this. I figure I’ll go to NYU like you both did, get a place on campus for single parents and be just fine.” Tess said, “You don’t have to do this alone, Amy.” Amy said, “I’ll manage. I don’t want either of you to stop your lives anymore because of Poor Little Amy. You have obligations, you have responsibilities. No matter what a jerk Troy was, I chose to be with him for a year, so I will work this out. I’ve done some checking and I know they help single mothers.” Seeing their mutually surprised and impressed looks, Amy said, “I’ve suspected it for a little while.”
Alex said, “We’ll be getting a place, hopefully soon after I graduate. You can come hang out with us whenever you want, Amy.” Nodding, Amy said, “I know. And I probably will.” Amy didn’t cry. She was focused and sure about this. It was very mature and impressive. She looked at Alex and said, “I also called NYU and found out that you can go in and take your finals as soon as next week because of where the terms fall.” When he hedged, Amy said, “Alex! I am fine. I’m not going to be any less pregnant a week from now than I am now. Go. Take your finals.” Alex walked to Amy and hugged her saying, “I will. Then when I come back I’ll help you get ready for next month.” Amy smiled and said, “I knew you would. I love you, Alex. Tess. I love you too.” Tess hugged her next and said, “You contact NYU for you yet?” Nodding, Amy said, “I sent transcripts to them last January. They were a place I was thinking of attending. I’ve been accepted recently—I double checked and found out they were okay with single family students.” Nodding, Tess said, “They are. There are several students on campus that are single parents, Amy. You won’t be alone. And we will hopefully be close enough to the campus when we get our house that you can visit. Until then, we have our apartment on Dixon Street.”
So Alex was going to go to NYU next week and take his finals and Amy would attend next month as a freshman. Alex and Tess would be near and help her however they could. College, the Musketeer reunion bond, Amy’s return to her old self, everything was improving it seemed. Things were finally getting back where they should be….
TBC.
"The truth is out there."
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Roswell4ever1
- Addicted Roswellian
- Posts: 294
- Joined: Sat Mar 13, 2004 12:15 am
- Contact:
The Roads We Take
The Roads We Take
Book One—Family Ties
By, Angelrose242000
Disclaimer: I own NOTHING! Except Dr. Bellamy and Troy Hilton
Part Four—The Surprise
Alex and Tess helped Amy move into her dorm the previous weekend. Now, finally done with school, Alex worked at Steinley Law as a new attorney—or would in a month when he passed the bars. Until then he did all the underdog laboring work. It sucked, but he knew it gave everyone the chance to know him, to earn respect there, and above all he knew it would be worth it in the end when he had his own office with a door. That was a dream of Alex’s.
He and Tess had moved out of their apartment they’d lived in all through college and got their house on 63rd street. It was closer to NYU—so closer to Amy. They had a party just the three of them celebrating the middle of last month to break in the new place. Amy’s face seemed to light up over the house, which had Tess and Alex happy they chose it.
Amy had not told Dad about the baby. She said she would in a letter home, despite Alex and Tess’s attempts to encourage her to tell him the truth up front. Despite her choice, they respected it and kept quiet for her, knowing it wasn’t their secret to tell….
~September, 2008~
Tess had a suspicion of her own here lately. It had been nagging at her since coming home, when they got Amy moved in and started to get settled back into their routine. She had gone to the store in advance, preparing for her monthly visitor to show…but she didn’t. Always regular, Tess knew something had to be up when August 20th came and went without it. Could it be stress? She asked herself at the time. Possibly. Sure. Now that September was here, though, and the 20th was nearing with absolutely no signs of its arrival, Tess took a drive to her OB doctor.
Alex was at work, it was a Monday afternoon. Dr. Bellamy was a good doctor, one that Tess liked. She was honest and didn’t rush through things. Tess trusted her. While performing the exam, Dr. Bellamy said, “You and Alex been okay?” She was a friend too.
Tess smiled as much as she could while laying on a cold table and said, “We’re doing good. Listen, I am probably overreacting coming here, but I’ve always been regular. I can pretty well plan my monthlies weeks ahead of time. I know we’ve been active—more so than usual…” Dr. Bellamy said, “Active is good in marriage.” Tess said, “Yeah…” She smiled remembering how much of their nights were spent making love. It was great, it was wonderful. What they shared was beautiful and Tess loved it more because of the time Alex spent when she needed it—thirty minutes if Tess was seeking his love desperately and needed his touch or all night long if she needed to feel his arms around her. They shared everything together, not just making love, but friendship, years of understanding, the bond that Tess was so afraid of shaking up if she was right—if she was pregnant.
Fifteen minutes later, in Dr. Bellamy’s office, Dr. Bellamy seemed to note her deep thoughts and said, “Well Tess I could tell you the news, but I think you know.” Letting out a deep breath, feeling her throat constrict and fears doubling inside her, Tess said, “Yep. How far am I?” Dr. Bellamy said, “About eight weeks I’d say, give or take. Is…this good?” Smiling because she wanted it to be, Tess said, “Sure. It is.” Dr. Bellamy said, “Wonderful. I’ll have the recep set you up with a series of appointments and will give you informative pamphlets on pregnancy.” Nodding Tess left her office wondering how she could tell this shocking news to Alex…
As soon as she kicked out of her sandals, Tess was on the phone with Liz. Nervously she began, “How are things with you and Max?” Liz smiled and said, “We’re fine. Max has told practically everybody about the pregnancy. He’s so excited, Tess. I mean…it’s unreal. I love him so much.” Tess felt the impact of her words and wondered how Alex would react. Would he brag to everyone? They were planners as much as they could be, Tess knew. It was what kept them up on condoms and the pill for eight years. Tess considered them a very responsible couple. This…this was unexpected and a complete surprise. Tess knew it was a possibility, sure, but she hoped somewhere inside that she was wrong….that they could plan this together and she wouldn’t have to tell a man she loved and saw working so hard to get his feet in the door of a new job that they were going to have a baby. Graduation…new job…new house…new baby. It was overwhelming, Tess thought. Was she ready to be a mom? Could she be a good one?
Tess smiled though for her friend and tried very hard to sound rational as she said, “He’s sweet. I’m glad that he is bragging like that.” Liz smiled while dangling with the phone cord as she sat on the couch of her house. She said, “How are you two doing? Alex should be coming up on his bar exams shouldn’t he?” Tess nodded, sitting on the couch in New York, looking at boxes all around her on the floor. She said, “October 30th. He takes his exam then.” Liz said surprised, “Oh, I’ll bet he’s cramming every night.” Tess said, “Yep. Every chance he can he cracks the books, one hour here, a couple there. We order in a lot…” smiling, Tess said, “Like when we were in college.” Liz laughed with her and said, “We did when we were in school and still do some nights.”
Tess said, “I don’t mind, it saves me having to.” She smiled and said, “I’m not a good cook.” Liz said, “I will on occasion, but Max does most of it.” Pausing, Liz said, “So…” She caught Tess’s downtrodden mood and thought at first it was exhaustion after getting Amy settled in and situating again after being back in New York, but the longer they talked, the more Liz wondered what was up. She asked conversationally, hoping Tess would tell her, “Amy okay?” Tess said with a smile, “Amy’s adjusting very well to NYU. She visits us regularly. She’s stopping by in an hour in fact. I just…I needed to call you, Liz, to say hi.” It had only been about a week since they had talked on the phone, but neither mentioned that.
Liz couldn’t hide it anymore and said, “What’s wrong, Tess? You’re acting strange.” Tess let out a deep breath and pushing her blonde hair away from her forehead she said, “I went to the doctor today…I found out…Liz…I’m pregnant.” Liz screamed, so happily, and said, “That’s wonderful, Tess!” At Tess’s silence, Liz said softly, “Or…not?”
Tess said, “We planned to have a family when Alex was secure in a job…he’s just started a matter of weeks ago.” Liz said, “Yeah, but he still has a job, one he has waited on and likes, right?” Thinking on this, Tess said, “Yeah, I guess. But it’s so sudden, Liz. So unplanned…” Hearing the front door rasping, Tess said quickly, “Oh, I think that’s Amy. I’ve gotta go, Liz. I’ll talk to you later.”
Liz said bye feeling bad for Tess and her heavy fears that were apparently bothering her. Not able to help there, Liz found herself falling on happiness. Total hyper glee over finding out one of her best friends in the world was pregnant! She tried for Tess to keep it low, but within the day she couldn’t help it and Maria knew. By the end of the week the whole gang knew! Alex however was in the dark…
Please read on...
Book One—Family Ties
By, Angelrose242000
Disclaimer: I own NOTHING! Except Dr. Bellamy and Troy Hilton
Part Four—The Surprise
Alex and Tess helped Amy move into her dorm the previous weekend. Now, finally done with school, Alex worked at Steinley Law as a new attorney—or would in a month when he passed the bars. Until then he did all the underdog laboring work. It sucked, but he knew it gave everyone the chance to know him, to earn respect there, and above all he knew it would be worth it in the end when he had his own office with a door. That was a dream of Alex’s.
He and Tess had moved out of their apartment they’d lived in all through college and got their house on 63rd street. It was closer to NYU—so closer to Amy. They had a party just the three of them celebrating the middle of last month to break in the new place. Amy’s face seemed to light up over the house, which had Tess and Alex happy they chose it.
Amy had not told Dad about the baby. She said she would in a letter home, despite Alex and Tess’s attempts to encourage her to tell him the truth up front. Despite her choice, they respected it and kept quiet for her, knowing it wasn’t their secret to tell….
~September, 2008~
Tess had a suspicion of her own here lately. It had been nagging at her since coming home, when they got Amy moved in and started to get settled back into their routine. She had gone to the store in advance, preparing for her monthly visitor to show…but she didn’t. Always regular, Tess knew something had to be up when August 20th came and went without it. Could it be stress? She asked herself at the time. Possibly. Sure. Now that September was here, though, and the 20th was nearing with absolutely no signs of its arrival, Tess took a drive to her OB doctor.
Alex was at work, it was a Monday afternoon. Dr. Bellamy was a good doctor, one that Tess liked. She was honest and didn’t rush through things. Tess trusted her. While performing the exam, Dr. Bellamy said, “You and Alex been okay?” She was a friend too.
Tess smiled as much as she could while laying on a cold table and said, “We’re doing good. Listen, I am probably overreacting coming here, but I’ve always been regular. I can pretty well plan my monthlies weeks ahead of time. I know we’ve been active—more so than usual…” Dr. Bellamy said, “Active is good in marriage.” Tess said, “Yeah…” She smiled remembering how much of their nights were spent making love. It was great, it was wonderful. What they shared was beautiful and Tess loved it more because of the time Alex spent when she needed it—thirty minutes if Tess was seeking his love desperately and needed his touch or all night long if she needed to feel his arms around her. They shared everything together, not just making love, but friendship, years of understanding, the bond that Tess was so afraid of shaking up if she was right—if she was pregnant.
Fifteen minutes later, in Dr. Bellamy’s office, Dr. Bellamy seemed to note her deep thoughts and said, “Well Tess I could tell you the news, but I think you know.” Letting out a deep breath, feeling her throat constrict and fears doubling inside her, Tess said, “Yep. How far am I?” Dr. Bellamy said, “About eight weeks I’d say, give or take. Is…this good?” Smiling because she wanted it to be, Tess said, “Sure. It is.” Dr. Bellamy said, “Wonderful. I’ll have the recep set you up with a series of appointments and will give you informative pamphlets on pregnancy.” Nodding Tess left her office wondering how she could tell this shocking news to Alex…
As soon as she kicked out of her sandals, Tess was on the phone with Liz. Nervously she began, “How are things with you and Max?” Liz smiled and said, “We’re fine. Max has told practically everybody about the pregnancy. He’s so excited, Tess. I mean…it’s unreal. I love him so much.” Tess felt the impact of her words and wondered how Alex would react. Would he brag to everyone? They were planners as much as they could be, Tess knew. It was what kept them up on condoms and the pill for eight years. Tess considered them a very responsible couple. This…this was unexpected and a complete surprise. Tess knew it was a possibility, sure, but she hoped somewhere inside that she was wrong….that they could plan this together and she wouldn’t have to tell a man she loved and saw working so hard to get his feet in the door of a new job that they were going to have a baby. Graduation…new job…new house…new baby. It was overwhelming, Tess thought. Was she ready to be a mom? Could she be a good one?
Tess smiled though for her friend and tried very hard to sound rational as she said, “He’s sweet. I’m glad that he is bragging like that.” Liz smiled while dangling with the phone cord as she sat on the couch of her house. She said, “How are you two doing? Alex should be coming up on his bar exams shouldn’t he?” Tess nodded, sitting on the couch in New York, looking at boxes all around her on the floor. She said, “October 30th. He takes his exam then.” Liz said surprised, “Oh, I’ll bet he’s cramming every night.” Tess said, “Yep. Every chance he can he cracks the books, one hour here, a couple there. We order in a lot…” smiling, Tess said, “Like when we were in college.” Liz laughed with her and said, “We did when we were in school and still do some nights.”
Tess said, “I don’t mind, it saves me having to.” She smiled and said, “I’m not a good cook.” Liz said, “I will on occasion, but Max does most of it.” Pausing, Liz said, “So…” She caught Tess’s downtrodden mood and thought at first it was exhaustion after getting Amy settled in and situating again after being back in New York, but the longer they talked, the more Liz wondered what was up. She asked conversationally, hoping Tess would tell her, “Amy okay?” Tess said with a smile, “Amy’s adjusting very well to NYU. She visits us regularly. She’s stopping by in an hour in fact. I just…I needed to call you, Liz, to say hi.” It had only been about a week since they had talked on the phone, but neither mentioned that.
Liz couldn’t hide it anymore and said, “What’s wrong, Tess? You’re acting strange.” Tess let out a deep breath and pushing her blonde hair away from her forehead she said, “I went to the doctor today…I found out…Liz…I’m pregnant.” Liz screamed, so happily, and said, “That’s wonderful, Tess!” At Tess’s silence, Liz said softly, “Or…not?”
Tess said, “We planned to have a family when Alex was secure in a job…he’s just started a matter of weeks ago.” Liz said, “Yeah, but he still has a job, one he has waited on and likes, right?” Thinking on this, Tess said, “Yeah, I guess. But it’s so sudden, Liz. So unplanned…” Hearing the front door rasping, Tess said quickly, “Oh, I think that’s Amy. I’ve gotta go, Liz. I’ll talk to you later.”
Liz said bye feeling bad for Tess and her heavy fears that were apparently bothering her. Not able to help there, Liz found herself falling on happiness. Total hyper glee over finding out one of her best friends in the world was pregnant! She tried for Tess to keep it low, but within the day she couldn’t help it and Maria knew. By the end of the week the whole gang knew! Alex however was in the dark…
Please read on...
-
Roswell4ever1
- Addicted Roswellian
- Posts: 294
- Joined: Sat Mar 13, 2004 12:15 am
- Contact:
The Roads We Take
I own NOTHING!
Alex knew nothing of the pregnancy, but suspected something was up. He was simply too close to Tess not to detect something… She was nervous acting at times. Unfortunately though, between long hours at work and studying as much as he could for the barrs, Alex hadn’t had the time to mention it. He’d just gone on and they continued to share dinners and talk about this and that, to make love just as they always had. Eventually Alex figured she would tell him. If it was important, Tess would tell him.
It all came down on a Friday, the following Friday to be exact, when Alex was laying on the couch lazily, enjoying a few minutes without studying or filing at work. The phone rang, bringing him out of his half dozed state of mind. Picking it up, Alex said, “Hello?” He knew his voice sounded as lulled as his brain felt. He couldn’t help it. He was worn out!
Duane said, “Hello to you too.” It was Dad and in that short comment Alex could tell he was not happy about something. Wiping tired eyes, Alex said in a mumble, “What’s up—or is it safe to ask?”
Duane said as he left the living room for the kitchen to grab a snack, “I thought you’d tell me something like this, instead of having to overhear it in the grapevine from your friends.” Alex sat up now, thoroughly confused and beginning to wonder if it was about Amy. No…none of them knew about the baby. He and Tess had kept quiet even from them for Amy.
Alex said, “Okay, dad, you’ve got me awake now. What is this about? What have you overheard?”
Duane said, “Thousands of miles away and a telephone call couldn’t be made.” Alex got to his feet and said, “Dad you are rambling.”
Duane said, “I don’t ramble, Alex. I’m mystified, surprised that I had to hear it through the grapevine instead of from my own kid.”
Alex said louder, “Hear what?”
Duane said, “How far along is she, Alex?” Alex said, “What?” Duane all but snapped, “Tess, pregnant, heard it from Amy Deluca over coffee at the Crashdown. Does that help?”
Alex stood in shock as he said, “Somebody must be confused. Tess is not pregnant.” Duane said, “All your friends say she is.” Alex said, “Well they know more than me then and I live with her.”
Just then Tess walked into the room and Alex looked into her eyes and saw. All the nervousness he’d suspected before was there…as well as fear. Alex said, “I’ll call you back later.” Clearly detecting Alex’s confusion, being left out, Duane felt terrible and said lowly, “Okay…Alex I’m sorry. I didn’t’ know…” Nodding without thought, Alex said, “It’s fine. Bye, Dad.”
Hanging up the phone, Alex stood and looked at Tess. He felt anger for the first time at Tess in a long, long time. Anger and hurt. Tess said uncomfortably, “How is he?” Alex ignored this and said, “What’s going on, Tess?” Tess said nervous as could be, “N-nothing. I just…thought I’d come see how you were. If you…needed anything.”
Alex said, “Are you pregnant?”
Darting her head downward, Tess said, “Alex…” Alex said, “Are you?” Tears filled her eyes as she started to head for the kitchen. She said, “Alex I think maybe you’ve been watching too much Rambo. I’m not going to listen as you rant at me.” Alex followed her in and said exasperated, “I’m not ranting, Tess. I’m confused, extremely baffled here. I just got off the phone with my dad who tells me that all our friends are talking about a baby…a baby I knew nothing about. Since I know I’m the only one sleeping with you, I think I can ask.” Tess turned and said, “Don’t be a jerk, Alex.” Alex framed Tess’s face and tilting her face up he said, “Are you pregnant, Tess?”
Tess looked into his eyes and said sadly, “Yes. Yes, I am pregnant.” Alex looked at Tess intently and said, “You’re pregnant, but you couldn’t tell me. You hid it from me. We tell each other everything, Tess. Why?” Tess said, “Because…” Feeling the tears falling, Tess wiped them and said, “Because you just started your job…because it wasn’t planned…because maybe I’m scared! Maybe I doubt what I am capable of with this. Maybe I’m not as cool and confident as Alex Whitman!” She stormed out of the house and went on a dash for her car. By the time Alex caught up, she was already gone….
TBC…
Alex knew nothing of the pregnancy, but suspected something was up. He was simply too close to Tess not to detect something… She was nervous acting at times. Unfortunately though, between long hours at work and studying as much as he could for the barrs, Alex hadn’t had the time to mention it. He’d just gone on and they continued to share dinners and talk about this and that, to make love just as they always had. Eventually Alex figured she would tell him. If it was important, Tess would tell him.
It all came down on a Friday, the following Friday to be exact, when Alex was laying on the couch lazily, enjoying a few minutes without studying or filing at work. The phone rang, bringing him out of his half dozed state of mind. Picking it up, Alex said, “Hello?” He knew his voice sounded as lulled as his brain felt. He couldn’t help it. He was worn out!
Duane said, “Hello to you too.” It was Dad and in that short comment Alex could tell he was not happy about something. Wiping tired eyes, Alex said in a mumble, “What’s up—or is it safe to ask?”
Duane said as he left the living room for the kitchen to grab a snack, “I thought you’d tell me something like this, instead of having to overhear it in the grapevine from your friends.” Alex sat up now, thoroughly confused and beginning to wonder if it was about Amy. No…none of them knew about the baby. He and Tess had kept quiet even from them for Amy.
Alex said, “Okay, dad, you’ve got me awake now. What is this about? What have you overheard?”
Duane said, “Thousands of miles away and a telephone call couldn’t be made.” Alex got to his feet and said, “Dad you are rambling.”
Duane said, “I don’t ramble, Alex. I’m mystified, surprised that I had to hear it through the grapevine instead of from my own kid.”
Alex said louder, “Hear what?”
Duane said, “How far along is she, Alex?” Alex said, “What?” Duane all but snapped, “Tess, pregnant, heard it from Amy Deluca over coffee at the Crashdown. Does that help?”
Alex stood in shock as he said, “Somebody must be confused. Tess is not pregnant.” Duane said, “All your friends say she is.” Alex said, “Well they know more than me then and I live with her.”
Just then Tess walked into the room and Alex looked into her eyes and saw. All the nervousness he’d suspected before was there…as well as fear. Alex said, “I’ll call you back later.” Clearly detecting Alex’s confusion, being left out, Duane felt terrible and said lowly, “Okay…Alex I’m sorry. I didn’t’ know…” Nodding without thought, Alex said, “It’s fine. Bye, Dad.”
Hanging up the phone, Alex stood and looked at Tess. He felt anger for the first time at Tess in a long, long time. Anger and hurt. Tess said uncomfortably, “How is he?” Alex ignored this and said, “What’s going on, Tess?” Tess said nervous as could be, “N-nothing. I just…thought I’d come see how you were. If you…needed anything.”
Alex said, “Are you pregnant?”
Darting her head downward, Tess said, “Alex…” Alex said, “Are you?” Tears filled her eyes as she started to head for the kitchen. She said, “Alex I think maybe you’ve been watching too much Rambo. I’m not going to listen as you rant at me.” Alex followed her in and said exasperated, “I’m not ranting, Tess. I’m confused, extremely baffled here. I just got off the phone with my dad who tells me that all our friends are talking about a baby…a baby I knew nothing about. Since I know I’m the only one sleeping with you, I think I can ask.” Tess turned and said, “Don’t be a jerk, Alex.” Alex framed Tess’s face and tilting her face up he said, “Are you pregnant, Tess?”
Tess looked into his eyes and said sadly, “Yes. Yes, I am pregnant.” Alex looked at Tess intently and said, “You’re pregnant, but you couldn’t tell me. You hid it from me. We tell each other everything, Tess. Why?” Tess said, “Because…” Feeling the tears falling, Tess wiped them and said, “Because you just started your job…because it wasn’t planned…because maybe I’m scared! Maybe I doubt what I am capable of with this. Maybe I’m not as cool and confident as Alex Whitman!” She stormed out of the house and went on a dash for her car. By the time Alex caught up, she was already gone….
TBC…
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angelrose242000
- Enthusiastic Roswellian
- Posts: 46
- Joined: Sun Apr 04, 2004 8:28 pm
- Location: Max's bedroom
The Roads We Take
The Roads We Take
Book I: Family Ties
By, Angelrose242000
Disclaimer: I own NOTHING!
Part Five—Thanksgiving
That Same Day… (Following The Surprise)
Tess was tempted to leave New York and fly home, to Roswell. She had driven down the road with this thought firmly in mind. Then she remembered how she owed Alex more than that. Sure he was upset, but she should have told him the truth. It was fear that kept her from it and now it was fear that had her driving down the streets of New York City, not knowing where to go or why she was on the road to begin with. So thinking this, she turned the car around and headed home….
Alex was frantic wondering where Tess had gone to. He had called their friends, their neighbors and finally the airport, to no avail. Eventually he wound up on the couch with his face in his hands trying to think of where else to turn to find her. Tess opened the front door and walked in, finding him like this in the living room. Walking softly to him she stopped in front of him and said, “Alex?” Alex looked up and seeing Tess standing there he leapt to his feet and took her into a desperate hug. Holding her close Alex said, “I’m sorry, Tess.” Tess broke into tears and hanging on to Alex’s shoulders she said, “I’m sorry too, Alex. I should have…told you.” Backing away for a second before he took her mouth with his and kissed her as he was tempted to do, Alex said with a grin, “It would have helped when talking with my dad, but I understand. I should have listened to you more instead of going off. Tess, let’s sit.” Alex and Tess sat on the couch. Alex reached over and took Tess’s hand into his and looking up into her eyes he said, “Tess, I love you.” Tess focused on his eyes as she said, “I love you too, Alex. I was scared to tell you about this because of our plans…we planned a family after we were settled. This…this comes as a surprise.”
Alex nodded, his eyebrows raised as he said with a smile, “Yeah. It does. But surprises are part of life, Tess, and I like to think that this one is a good one.” Smiling with him, Tess said shyly, “You do?”
Crossing his fingers with hers, Alex said, “I do. I think we’ve planned too much. I like the unexpected now and then and I love you.” Tess said through tears, “I love you too, Alex. I think it’s wonderful.” Alex smiled inching Tess closer as he said, “We’re having a baby.” Smiling through tears, Tess said, “Yep. We are.” Seeing she was happy about it, Alex pulled Tess the rest of the way into his arms and held her in a hug. Tess held on and with her head down she kissed his shoulder. He said emotionally, “We’ve created something from us.” Raising her eyes to his, catching his love and emotion in them, Tess said with a smile that was growing stronger because she could tell he was happy too, “I know.” Alex slid his hands to around her neck to cup her and lowering his mouth he kissed her. Tess felt Alex’s kisses as they expanded due to this intimacy shared. She held his face in her hands and kissed him back, changing angles with him and giving him more of her as she did. Unbuttoning her shirt, Alex took her mouth in kiss after kiss as he slid her yellow shirt off her body. Tess tugged and pulled his navy blue sweatshirt off his head, slowly sliding her fingers over his chest. Unsnapping her bra, Alex leisurely took it off, sliding his hands around her waist, then up over her. Tess’s eyes met Alex’s and showed what he needed to see, love, trust, and needs. He heard her gasp of breath as he slid his hands over her breasts, framing them in a circular motion. Tess slid her hands down his stomach, toying with the drawstrings of his sweats. Alex kissed her lips, holding her against him as he lowered his hands down her stomach, reaching the button on her jeans. Unbuttoning and unzipping her jeans, he tugged them off of her as he ran kisses down her neck. He slid all off of her until she was totally his. Picking her up he carried her to the bedroom and slowly lowered her to the crisp sheets where he made sweet long love to her. They went in the room at around noon that day and spent the entire day making love numerous times, sharing each other so implicitly, so openly, so tenderly….
~Thanksgiving, 2008~
Alex and Tess flew home the week of Thanksgiving. Steinley had shut the doors on the law firm and gave the employees the entire week to spend with their families. Alex didn’t complain. It’d only been four months since he’d seen his dad or his friends but he missed them. So did Tess.
He and Tess had offered to fly with Amy, but she had to stay an extra day to take finals, saying she’d be out as soon as she could. They arrived on the doorstep of home at around eleven that Monday morning. The gang was there when they got there and at sight, they were welcomed in. Michael opened the door letting them inside he hollered to the house, “Hey everyone! Alex and Tess are here.” Alex and Tess walked inside with Michael and said hello to the group who all sat at various places, drinking EggNog or wine—with exception to Liz who drank soda. Alex took off Tess’s blue jacket and his black one and with his arm around her they walked to a spot on the living room floor. Alex plopped it down and lightly tugged Tess into his lap. While Amber watched a Charlie Brown Thanksgiving in one of the upstairs bedroom’s, Max, Liz, Kyle, Maria, Tess and Alex all caught up with the other on what was going on. Max looked at Alex and said, “So how’s things going at the firm, Alex?” Alex said honestly, “I love it. I wasn’t sure what the reality would be like when I got in there and I have to admit I didn’t like doing all the chores before gaining my license to practice, but it all paid off and I really do enjoy it. How about you? Any new excitement at the UFO Center now days?” As Max filled Alex in, Tess slipped into the kitchen to get a drink of water and was instantly hugged by Duane. He was in there eating a bagel and reading the paper when Tess walked in. Hugging him back, Tess said, “It’s good to be home.” Duane said, “You’ve been feeling okay?” Tess smiled and said, “I’m wonderful.” Catching his meaning, she added, “No morning sickness, everything is going well, Dr. Bellamy says.” Duane smiled proud and said, “Remember when you find out what the baby is I want to know too. If it’s a boy I can plan trips to football games. If it is a girl, I’ll have to get Amy’s help and plan trips to the mall.” Tess smiled and blushed as she said, “Really Mr. W. I don’t think our baby is going to care where you take him as long as you’re around to love him.” Duane a proud grandpa said, “So it’s a boy then?” Tess’s blue eyes became large as she said, “I didn’t say that.” Duane said, “You referred to the child as ‘him’.” Thinking back, Tess had. She said, “It was a slip. I don’t know what the sex of the child is. I swear, I don’t. I’m only sixteen weeks.” Smiling at him as a daughter would Tess said, “But you will the be the first to know—after us that is.” Duane said, “Good.”
Alex stepped in the room saying, “There you are. I wondered where you’d gone to.” Smiling as she walked over to him, Tess said, “I’ve been in here, Alex. Trying to convince Mr. W. that we don’t know what the baby is yet.” Alex said to his dad, “Dad we don’t know yet.” Duane said, “I know…I know. Just thought I’d ask.” Focusing on Tess, Alex said, “I can take that for you.” Tess gave him a large smile as she said, “It’s just a glass of water, Alex. I can carry it…” Alex said, “So can I. Come on.” It was no secret now days that Alex babied Tess, was protective of her, more now than ever. She liked it. He wasn’t smothering or possessive, just caring and thoughtful. Tess could handle that. He put an arm around her shoulder and walked with her into the living room. Tess gave Mr. W. an eye roll that was meant in a good way as she left the kitchen with her husband.
They visited all afternoon, into the night with the gang and all crashed at the Whitman house….
Amy arrived two days later at seven in the morning wearing a loose pair of slacks and a red sweater. It was still hard to see the evidence because she wore loose pants, but Amy needed that right now. Alex was already up having his cup of coffee when he saw the cab pull up in the drive and Amy climb out. Walking to the front door, around bodies sleeping, since they spent yet another night here, Alex opened it up and quietly stepped onto the porch to talk with his little sister. She evidently wasn’t still having morning sickness because her face looked healthy and vibrant but Alex could tell she was nervous. Alex walked across the drive and caught Amy’s large smile as she said, “Hey, Whitman.” Alex said, “Hey right back. Most everyone’s still asleep—they’ve been staying over since Monday, since our arrival…how are you?” Amy smiled and said, “Good. Glad to be home.” Alex reached for a hug and Amy walked into his arms and accepted it, hugging him back. Looking at her outfit, Alex panicked while they were alone and said, “Amy you’re barely showing. Everything good with the baby?” Nodding, Amy said, “Everything’s fine. Dr. Newman says I am healthy as can be. I’m just small, but the baby is about seven months now. I imagine you could tell if I was wearing clothes that fit. I’m wearing these oversized ones today.” Alex caught it and said, “Dad doesn’t know…does he?” Diverting her eyes, Amy said, “I thought I’d tell him while on this break.” Alex said, “Amy…” Amy said, “I didn’t have the heart and didn’t know what to say in a letter…I thought I would. If he knows I am…he will be disappointed in me.” Shaking his head, Alex said, “No. He won’t. He loves you, Amy. You are going on to school and doing something positive. Dad will see that. So what happens when you have the baby?” Amy said, “I go to school with her. It’s a girl, Alex. I just found out a week ago. It’s gonna be tough, but I’ve already seen other girls doing it. I’ll just be one of them.” Smiling she said, “Could you help me with my things?” Nodding, Alex said, “Sure. Come on.” They walked in together, Amy worried about her dad learning the truth, Alex wondering what could be done to help Amy…
Alex mulled over that for hours, then a full day. He finally looked at Tess when alone in his old bedroom and said, “Amy needs help.” Tess said, “With what?” Alex said, “Well…she’s about to give birth in another month or two and from what she tells me she is taking the baby to school with her when she does.” Tess nodded and said, “Ooh. Well I feel for her. But I was friends with a couple girls who did it. It can be done, Alex.” She said this because she figured this was what was bothering him most. Her being young and single and his sister.
Alex said, “I guess. I just hoped she wouldn’t have to.” Tess said, “I know…but it sounds like she’s got it together. I’d help and will as much as I can, but I’m in the family way myself.” She said with a grin. “How does that happen, Alex?” Alex smiled wickedly and said, “I don’t know.” Tess showed a smile and said, “Yeah…right.” She reorganized Alex’s old baseball cards on his bed as they talked.
Hearing Tess say this helped Alex realize a truth—Amy needed to handle this on her own. They would help as much as they could, when they could, but ultimately it would fall on Amy. She would want it that way.
Walking to Tess who was wrapping a rubber band around each section of cards, Alex said, “I need a reminder, Tess.” Perplexed and grinning, Tess said, “A reminder? Of what?” Then she put it together and said, “Really?” Alex said “Yeah. What causes it to happen, Tess?” Tess grinned slyly up into his eyes, as she moved the project she was working on to his bedside table.
Alex pulled Tess’s chin up as he met her at the edge of the bed and he kissed her in a drawn out way that had her moving to her knees and wrapping her arms around his shoulders to hang on and to kiss him back. Laughing together, Alex tumbled onto the bed with Tess to figure it out….
The day of Thanksgiving was a madhouse. All the ladies and a few gentlemen were in the kitchen cooking. Alex tried to encourage Tess into hanging with the other strays in the living room—those that chose not to participate in cooking. Tess said determinedly, “Alex, if I can wash your socks I can cook a casserole. Now relax. Please.” Realizing it was silly for her to not help and wanting her there, Alex conceded and they worked with the crew.
By three in the afternoon the kitchen smelled wonderful! Amy took a breather outside. Dad followed her and said, “Decide to take a break?” Smiling at Dad, Amy said, “Yes! It was getting too warm in there and although it smells great, I wanted to step out here for a little while.” Dad said gingerly, “Do you mind if I stand out here with you?” Shaking her head, still feeling awkward in ways, Amy said, “No, dad. I don’t mind.”
Duane looked out at the houses and beyond and said, “The house is quiet with you gone too.” Amy said, “I’m sure. But you have more time to do what you want with us gone.” Shrugging, Duane said, “I did before. You and Alex were pretty independent before you ever left home.” Turning to Amy he said, “But there is something I’ve been meaning to address with you.” Amy said, “Wh-what’s that?” Duane said, “I wanted to tell you how proud I am of you, Amy. You have been through a lot this past year, especially the past few months. Yet you came out of it and are a freshman in college, going after your goals. You are more like Alex than you know. I am proud of you, Amy.” Amy felt tears fall as she walked to her dad and reached out, feeling his big strong arms going around her. She missed hugs from Dad. Crying outright now on his shoulder, Amy said, “Oh dad…when you hug me like this it makes it hard to be that strong.” Duane moved back and said, “Is something wrong, Amy?”
Amy wiped her eyes and said, “Nothing I can’t handle. When you make choices in life, there always are consequences. I chose to date a guy for a year...and now...now I am having his baby.” Turning away from dad because she didn’t think she could look at him, see his disappointment, Amy fell quiet.
Duane didn’t chastise, he didn’t give her a dirty look or revoke his praise he had given to her earlier. Instead, he pulled her back into his arms….
After a few minutes of this, Duane said, “Your mom didn’t show much when she was pregnant either.” Amy said, “I’m at my seventh month. Couldn’t tell could you?” Shaking his head, Duane said, “Nope. But like I said, your mom was that way too. So…after you have the baby. What are you going to do?” It sounded just like what Alex asked and had Amy smiling. She said, “I’m going on to school…with the baby. Other girls do it.”
Looking lovingly at Amy, Duane said, “I’m sure, but Amy why would you when you could let the baby stay here, with me?” Amy said, “Dad…you work.” Duane said, “I’m at retirement age. I’ve thought of taking an early one. I’ve earned it.” Amy knew he had, but she said, “You’d want to take early retirement to help raise my baby? Dad that wouldn’t be fair. You should be taking a cruise to the Bahamas. Not changing diapers. I can do it.”
Duane said, “Amy I’m not saying you can’t. I’m offering…I’m offering to help out. You will still be mom. I’ll just be a fill in grandpa until you’re done. If you want.”
Wiping more tears, Amy looked within herself and at Dad and said, “I’ll…I’ll think about it.” Realizing what he was saying and the impact of his love for her, Amy said, “I love you, dad.” She hugged her dad, finally feeling the guilt and the awkwardness leaving….
When she was alone with Alex on the porch, once again, Amy said, “Dad offered to raise my baby until I finish school.” Impressed, Alex said, “Really? What do you think about it?” Amy shrugged and said, “I think…I think I don’t deserve it. I think, what kind of mother lets her dad raise her child for four years while she goes to school?”
Alex said, “Amy you are every bit as worthy of having Dad’s help as I am. He’s helped me through the years when I didn’t think I deserved it. He loves us, Amy. As big a pain in the ass as he can be, he is dad. As to your other question, Amy come on. No child you could ever have would despise you for thinking of him or her enough to get an education. That is a good thing, Amy, a responsible thing to do. If dad offered to help…I’d take it.”
Nodding, Amy said, “I think I will…I just hope I can live knowing my baby is thousands of miles away from me.” Feeling it even though it wasn’t here yet, Amy broke into tears. She said, “I’ll miss her terribly.” Alex said, “Yeah, but you’ll see her every holiday, and you know full well if you want a trip home, all you have to do is knock on mine and Tess’s front door. We’ll help see to it you get there.” Smiling, Amy said, “I know. I love you both, Alex.” Alex kissed her head and said, “We love you too.”
Alex said, “Besides in a handful of months, Tess will have the baby and you can come spoil your niece or nephew rotten.” Smiling, Amy said, “And I will. Believe me. Our children will grow up together, Alex.” Nodding, Alex put an arm around her shoulder and said, “You’re right. I don’t know about you but I think that is pretty special.” Crying again, Amy said, “I do too. Liz is pregnant too. With twins I hear.” Alex said, “She is. Man that makes one, two, three… Four babies in one year. Man!” Amy smiled fondly and said, “Wait till next year, next Christmas. The house will be fuller then.” Alex said, “It’s full now. Full of love. Let’s go back inside.” Agreeing, Amy walked back inside with her knight in shining armor, her big brother, Alex….
The Guerin Agenda to Come Soon!
Book I: Family Ties
By, Angelrose242000
Disclaimer: I own NOTHING!
Part Five—Thanksgiving
That Same Day… (Following The Surprise)
Tess was tempted to leave New York and fly home, to Roswell. She had driven down the road with this thought firmly in mind. Then she remembered how she owed Alex more than that. Sure he was upset, but she should have told him the truth. It was fear that kept her from it and now it was fear that had her driving down the streets of New York City, not knowing where to go or why she was on the road to begin with. So thinking this, she turned the car around and headed home….
Alex was frantic wondering where Tess had gone to. He had called their friends, their neighbors and finally the airport, to no avail. Eventually he wound up on the couch with his face in his hands trying to think of where else to turn to find her. Tess opened the front door and walked in, finding him like this in the living room. Walking softly to him she stopped in front of him and said, “Alex?” Alex looked up and seeing Tess standing there he leapt to his feet and took her into a desperate hug. Holding her close Alex said, “I’m sorry, Tess.” Tess broke into tears and hanging on to Alex’s shoulders she said, “I’m sorry too, Alex. I should have…told you.” Backing away for a second before he took her mouth with his and kissed her as he was tempted to do, Alex said with a grin, “It would have helped when talking with my dad, but I understand. I should have listened to you more instead of going off. Tess, let’s sit.” Alex and Tess sat on the couch. Alex reached over and took Tess’s hand into his and looking up into her eyes he said, “Tess, I love you.” Tess focused on his eyes as she said, “I love you too, Alex. I was scared to tell you about this because of our plans…we planned a family after we were settled. This…this comes as a surprise.”
Alex nodded, his eyebrows raised as he said with a smile, “Yeah. It does. But surprises are part of life, Tess, and I like to think that this one is a good one.” Smiling with him, Tess said shyly, “You do?”
Crossing his fingers with hers, Alex said, “I do. I think we’ve planned too much. I like the unexpected now and then and I love you.” Tess said through tears, “I love you too, Alex. I think it’s wonderful.” Alex smiled inching Tess closer as he said, “We’re having a baby.” Smiling through tears, Tess said, “Yep. We are.” Seeing she was happy about it, Alex pulled Tess the rest of the way into his arms and held her in a hug. Tess held on and with her head down she kissed his shoulder. He said emotionally, “We’ve created something from us.” Raising her eyes to his, catching his love and emotion in them, Tess said with a smile that was growing stronger because she could tell he was happy too, “I know.” Alex slid his hands to around her neck to cup her and lowering his mouth he kissed her. Tess felt Alex’s kisses as they expanded due to this intimacy shared. She held his face in her hands and kissed him back, changing angles with him and giving him more of her as she did. Unbuttoning her shirt, Alex took her mouth in kiss after kiss as he slid her yellow shirt off her body. Tess tugged and pulled his navy blue sweatshirt off his head, slowly sliding her fingers over his chest. Unsnapping her bra, Alex leisurely took it off, sliding his hands around her waist, then up over her. Tess’s eyes met Alex’s and showed what he needed to see, love, trust, and needs. He heard her gasp of breath as he slid his hands over her breasts, framing them in a circular motion. Tess slid her hands down his stomach, toying with the drawstrings of his sweats. Alex kissed her lips, holding her against him as he lowered his hands down her stomach, reaching the button on her jeans. Unbuttoning and unzipping her jeans, he tugged them off of her as he ran kisses down her neck. He slid all off of her until she was totally his. Picking her up he carried her to the bedroom and slowly lowered her to the crisp sheets where he made sweet long love to her. They went in the room at around noon that day and spent the entire day making love numerous times, sharing each other so implicitly, so openly, so tenderly….
~Thanksgiving, 2008~
Alex and Tess flew home the week of Thanksgiving. Steinley had shut the doors on the law firm and gave the employees the entire week to spend with their families. Alex didn’t complain. It’d only been four months since he’d seen his dad or his friends but he missed them. So did Tess.
He and Tess had offered to fly with Amy, but she had to stay an extra day to take finals, saying she’d be out as soon as she could. They arrived on the doorstep of home at around eleven that Monday morning. The gang was there when they got there and at sight, they were welcomed in. Michael opened the door letting them inside he hollered to the house, “Hey everyone! Alex and Tess are here.” Alex and Tess walked inside with Michael and said hello to the group who all sat at various places, drinking EggNog or wine—with exception to Liz who drank soda. Alex took off Tess’s blue jacket and his black one and with his arm around her they walked to a spot on the living room floor. Alex plopped it down and lightly tugged Tess into his lap. While Amber watched a Charlie Brown Thanksgiving in one of the upstairs bedroom’s, Max, Liz, Kyle, Maria, Tess and Alex all caught up with the other on what was going on. Max looked at Alex and said, “So how’s things going at the firm, Alex?” Alex said honestly, “I love it. I wasn’t sure what the reality would be like when I got in there and I have to admit I didn’t like doing all the chores before gaining my license to practice, but it all paid off and I really do enjoy it. How about you? Any new excitement at the UFO Center now days?” As Max filled Alex in, Tess slipped into the kitchen to get a drink of water and was instantly hugged by Duane. He was in there eating a bagel and reading the paper when Tess walked in. Hugging him back, Tess said, “It’s good to be home.” Duane said, “You’ve been feeling okay?” Tess smiled and said, “I’m wonderful.” Catching his meaning, she added, “No morning sickness, everything is going well, Dr. Bellamy says.” Duane smiled proud and said, “Remember when you find out what the baby is I want to know too. If it’s a boy I can plan trips to football games. If it is a girl, I’ll have to get Amy’s help and plan trips to the mall.” Tess smiled and blushed as she said, “Really Mr. W. I don’t think our baby is going to care where you take him as long as you’re around to love him.” Duane a proud grandpa said, “So it’s a boy then?” Tess’s blue eyes became large as she said, “I didn’t say that.” Duane said, “You referred to the child as ‘him’.” Thinking back, Tess had. She said, “It was a slip. I don’t know what the sex of the child is. I swear, I don’t. I’m only sixteen weeks.” Smiling at him as a daughter would Tess said, “But you will the be the first to know—after us that is.” Duane said, “Good.”
Alex stepped in the room saying, “There you are. I wondered where you’d gone to.” Smiling as she walked over to him, Tess said, “I’ve been in here, Alex. Trying to convince Mr. W. that we don’t know what the baby is yet.” Alex said to his dad, “Dad we don’t know yet.” Duane said, “I know…I know. Just thought I’d ask.” Focusing on Tess, Alex said, “I can take that for you.” Tess gave him a large smile as she said, “It’s just a glass of water, Alex. I can carry it…” Alex said, “So can I. Come on.” It was no secret now days that Alex babied Tess, was protective of her, more now than ever. She liked it. He wasn’t smothering or possessive, just caring and thoughtful. Tess could handle that. He put an arm around her shoulder and walked with her into the living room. Tess gave Mr. W. an eye roll that was meant in a good way as she left the kitchen with her husband.
They visited all afternoon, into the night with the gang and all crashed at the Whitman house….
Amy arrived two days later at seven in the morning wearing a loose pair of slacks and a red sweater. It was still hard to see the evidence because she wore loose pants, but Amy needed that right now. Alex was already up having his cup of coffee when he saw the cab pull up in the drive and Amy climb out. Walking to the front door, around bodies sleeping, since they spent yet another night here, Alex opened it up and quietly stepped onto the porch to talk with his little sister. She evidently wasn’t still having morning sickness because her face looked healthy and vibrant but Alex could tell she was nervous. Alex walked across the drive and caught Amy’s large smile as she said, “Hey, Whitman.” Alex said, “Hey right back. Most everyone’s still asleep—they’ve been staying over since Monday, since our arrival…how are you?” Amy smiled and said, “Good. Glad to be home.” Alex reached for a hug and Amy walked into his arms and accepted it, hugging him back. Looking at her outfit, Alex panicked while they were alone and said, “Amy you’re barely showing. Everything good with the baby?” Nodding, Amy said, “Everything’s fine. Dr. Newman says I am healthy as can be. I’m just small, but the baby is about seven months now. I imagine you could tell if I was wearing clothes that fit. I’m wearing these oversized ones today.” Alex caught it and said, “Dad doesn’t know…does he?” Diverting her eyes, Amy said, “I thought I’d tell him while on this break.” Alex said, “Amy…” Amy said, “I didn’t have the heart and didn’t know what to say in a letter…I thought I would. If he knows I am…he will be disappointed in me.” Shaking his head, Alex said, “No. He won’t. He loves you, Amy. You are going on to school and doing something positive. Dad will see that. So what happens when you have the baby?” Amy said, “I go to school with her. It’s a girl, Alex. I just found out a week ago. It’s gonna be tough, but I’ve already seen other girls doing it. I’ll just be one of them.” Smiling she said, “Could you help me with my things?” Nodding, Alex said, “Sure. Come on.” They walked in together, Amy worried about her dad learning the truth, Alex wondering what could be done to help Amy…
Alex mulled over that for hours, then a full day. He finally looked at Tess when alone in his old bedroom and said, “Amy needs help.” Tess said, “With what?” Alex said, “Well…she’s about to give birth in another month or two and from what she tells me she is taking the baby to school with her when she does.” Tess nodded and said, “Ooh. Well I feel for her. But I was friends with a couple girls who did it. It can be done, Alex.” She said this because she figured this was what was bothering him most. Her being young and single and his sister.
Alex said, “I guess. I just hoped she wouldn’t have to.” Tess said, “I know…but it sounds like she’s got it together. I’d help and will as much as I can, but I’m in the family way myself.” She said with a grin. “How does that happen, Alex?” Alex smiled wickedly and said, “I don’t know.” Tess showed a smile and said, “Yeah…right.” She reorganized Alex’s old baseball cards on his bed as they talked.
Hearing Tess say this helped Alex realize a truth—Amy needed to handle this on her own. They would help as much as they could, when they could, but ultimately it would fall on Amy. She would want it that way.
Walking to Tess who was wrapping a rubber band around each section of cards, Alex said, “I need a reminder, Tess.” Perplexed and grinning, Tess said, “A reminder? Of what?” Then she put it together and said, “Really?” Alex said “Yeah. What causes it to happen, Tess?” Tess grinned slyly up into his eyes, as she moved the project she was working on to his bedside table.
Alex pulled Tess’s chin up as he met her at the edge of the bed and he kissed her in a drawn out way that had her moving to her knees and wrapping her arms around his shoulders to hang on and to kiss him back. Laughing together, Alex tumbled onto the bed with Tess to figure it out….
The day of Thanksgiving was a madhouse. All the ladies and a few gentlemen were in the kitchen cooking. Alex tried to encourage Tess into hanging with the other strays in the living room—those that chose not to participate in cooking. Tess said determinedly, “Alex, if I can wash your socks I can cook a casserole. Now relax. Please.” Realizing it was silly for her to not help and wanting her there, Alex conceded and they worked with the crew.
By three in the afternoon the kitchen smelled wonderful! Amy took a breather outside. Dad followed her and said, “Decide to take a break?” Smiling at Dad, Amy said, “Yes! It was getting too warm in there and although it smells great, I wanted to step out here for a little while.” Dad said gingerly, “Do you mind if I stand out here with you?” Shaking her head, still feeling awkward in ways, Amy said, “No, dad. I don’t mind.”
Duane looked out at the houses and beyond and said, “The house is quiet with you gone too.” Amy said, “I’m sure. But you have more time to do what you want with us gone.” Shrugging, Duane said, “I did before. You and Alex were pretty independent before you ever left home.” Turning to Amy he said, “But there is something I’ve been meaning to address with you.” Amy said, “Wh-what’s that?” Duane said, “I wanted to tell you how proud I am of you, Amy. You have been through a lot this past year, especially the past few months. Yet you came out of it and are a freshman in college, going after your goals. You are more like Alex than you know. I am proud of you, Amy.” Amy felt tears fall as she walked to her dad and reached out, feeling his big strong arms going around her. She missed hugs from Dad. Crying outright now on his shoulder, Amy said, “Oh dad…when you hug me like this it makes it hard to be that strong.” Duane moved back and said, “Is something wrong, Amy?”
Amy wiped her eyes and said, “Nothing I can’t handle. When you make choices in life, there always are consequences. I chose to date a guy for a year...and now...now I am having his baby.” Turning away from dad because she didn’t think she could look at him, see his disappointment, Amy fell quiet.
Duane didn’t chastise, he didn’t give her a dirty look or revoke his praise he had given to her earlier. Instead, he pulled her back into his arms….
After a few minutes of this, Duane said, “Your mom didn’t show much when she was pregnant either.” Amy said, “I’m at my seventh month. Couldn’t tell could you?” Shaking his head, Duane said, “Nope. But like I said, your mom was that way too. So…after you have the baby. What are you going to do?” It sounded just like what Alex asked and had Amy smiling. She said, “I’m going on to school…with the baby. Other girls do it.”
Looking lovingly at Amy, Duane said, “I’m sure, but Amy why would you when you could let the baby stay here, with me?” Amy said, “Dad…you work.” Duane said, “I’m at retirement age. I’ve thought of taking an early one. I’ve earned it.” Amy knew he had, but she said, “You’d want to take early retirement to help raise my baby? Dad that wouldn’t be fair. You should be taking a cruise to the Bahamas. Not changing diapers. I can do it.”
Duane said, “Amy I’m not saying you can’t. I’m offering…I’m offering to help out. You will still be mom. I’ll just be a fill in grandpa until you’re done. If you want.”
Wiping more tears, Amy looked within herself and at Dad and said, “I’ll…I’ll think about it.” Realizing what he was saying and the impact of his love for her, Amy said, “I love you, dad.” She hugged her dad, finally feeling the guilt and the awkwardness leaving….
When she was alone with Alex on the porch, once again, Amy said, “Dad offered to raise my baby until I finish school.” Impressed, Alex said, “Really? What do you think about it?” Amy shrugged and said, “I think…I think I don’t deserve it. I think, what kind of mother lets her dad raise her child for four years while she goes to school?”
Alex said, “Amy you are every bit as worthy of having Dad’s help as I am. He’s helped me through the years when I didn’t think I deserved it. He loves us, Amy. As big a pain in the ass as he can be, he is dad. As to your other question, Amy come on. No child you could ever have would despise you for thinking of him or her enough to get an education. That is a good thing, Amy, a responsible thing to do. If dad offered to help…I’d take it.”
Nodding, Amy said, “I think I will…I just hope I can live knowing my baby is thousands of miles away from me.” Feeling it even though it wasn’t here yet, Amy broke into tears. She said, “I’ll miss her terribly.” Alex said, “Yeah, but you’ll see her every holiday, and you know full well if you want a trip home, all you have to do is knock on mine and Tess’s front door. We’ll help see to it you get there.” Smiling, Amy said, “I know. I love you both, Alex.” Alex kissed her head and said, “We love you too.”
Alex said, “Besides in a handful of months, Tess will have the baby and you can come spoil your niece or nephew rotten.” Smiling, Amy said, “And I will. Believe me. Our children will grow up together, Alex.” Nodding, Alex put an arm around her shoulder and said, “You’re right. I don’t know about you but I think that is pretty special.” Crying again, Amy said, “I do too. Liz is pregnant too. With twins I hear.” Alex said, “She is. Man that makes one, two, three… Four babies in one year. Man!” Amy smiled fondly and said, “Wait till next year, next Christmas. The house will be fuller then.” Alex said, “It’s full now. Full of love. Let’s go back inside.” Agreeing, Amy walked back inside with her knight in shining armor, her big brother, Alex….
The Guerin Agenda to Come Soon!
"The truth is out there."
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Roswell4ever1
- Addicted Roswellian
- Posts: 294
- Joined: Sat Mar 13, 2004 12:15 am
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The Roads We Take
Book Two
The Guerin Agenda
Written by Roswell4ever1
Disclaimer: I own nothing EXCEPT for Chief Hughohonoboon and Jerry Lurry.
Part One- Don’t Turn Around
December 1st 2008
It was 8:30 on a Friday night. Michael and Isabel had just finished putting three year old Amber and two month old Maxwell to bed when Isabel headed out onto the front porch. She sat down on the wooden porch swing that Michael had put up just two months before. She loved to look at the sky at night.
Michael walked out the door and across the porch to where Isabel was sitting.
“Hey babe.” He said as he sat down next to her. She lay her head on his shoulder and said “Hey Spaceboy.” They sat there for the better part of an hour talking about their day. This was tradition for them. Put the kids to bed, grab the baby monitor so they can hear them and go out to the porch. They used to just sit on the concrete step until Michael put up the swing.
“So, how are things at the club?” She asked him.
“Not too bad. I had to fire Robyn this afternoon.”
“How come?”
“She kept fondling her boyfriend in front of the customers.”
“That’s not surprising. Like mother like daughter.”
“Yeah exactly. The worst part was her boyfriend looked different night.”
“She really IS like her mother then isn’t she?”
“Yeah. Hopefully she will settle down before she totally mimics her though.”
Robyn was their neighbor Alayna’s daughter. Alayna had always been wild. As a matter of fact, she had a different guy going in her house every night. She had Robyn when she was 14 and had another child every couple of years since then. She was up to 9 now.
“So who closed?” Isabel asked.
“Jerry did. He is the most trustworthy one we have in there. How are the books coming along?” He asked her.
“Pretty good. You’re a little short for the week but your overall income for the month was well above. I guess adding the karaoke section really helped?”
“Yeah it did. It amazes me how many people around here like to sing. Maria and Liz sure love it.”
“There’s a shocker! I can imagine Maria does. She has always loved to sing. But Liz? I would have never guessed that!”
“I know. I was shocked too. But she’s really good. I think for a lot of people it’s a way of relieving stress.”
“I could see how it would be.” She replied. “I wish I could be there more but with the kids and everything that has to be done around here it isn’t real feasable.”
“You know what babe? You do more for me here than most do at the club. I really don’t know what I’d do without you. And I sure as hell don’t know anyone else who would put up with me.”
“Me either! But don’t worry Spaceboy. I don’t plan on leaving. The money is too good!”
“Oh so that’s all I’m good for hu? Just a money thing?”
“No. Your earring is pretty nice too.” She had finally convinced him right after Thanksgiving to get his ear pierced. She had been trying for years and he finally gave in.
“Oh I see. Well as long as you approve of my earring I guess it’s all good.”
“Damn well better be. You cant do any better than me Spaceboy.” She joked.
“No but you could sure do better than me. As a matter of fact, I heard that Jerry is single.”
“Well, he is going to have to stay single. I can only handle one man and I’m quite pleased with my current make and model. He leaned over and kissed her. “Me too.”
Isabel stood up and looking at Michael said “Well, I’m gonna go check on the kids and head on to bed. It’s been a long day and I’m tired.”
He nodded. “Ok. I’ll be right up.”
Michael followed Isabel into the house but veered off toward the kitchen to get the coffee pot ready for the next morning and make sure the doors were all locked up. He started toward the bathroom to brush his teeth when he heard Isabel come running down the stairs.
“Michael! Did you hear Amber get up while we were outside?”
“No.” He said. “We had the monitor right beside us. If she got up we would have heard it.”
Isabel started to hyperventilate.
“Isabel. Is, calm down a minute and tell me what’s wrong.”
“She’s gone Michael. Amber’s gone!”
TBC…
Book Two
The Guerin Agenda
Written by Roswell4ever1
Disclaimer: I own nothing EXCEPT for Chief Hughohonoboon and Jerry Lurry.
Part One- Don’t Turn Around
December 1st 2008
It was 8:30 on a Friday night. Michael and Isabel had just finished putting three year old Amber and two month old Maxwell to bed when Isabel headed out onto the front porch. She sat down on the wooden porch swing that Michael had put up just two months before. She loved to look at the sky at night.
Michael walked out the door and across the porch to where Isabel was sitting.
“Hey babe.” He said as he sat down next to her. She lay her head on his shoulder and said “Hey Spaceboy.” They sat there for the better part of an hour talking about their day. This was tradition for them. Put the kids to bed, grab the baby monitor so they can hear them and go out to the porch. They used to just sit on the concrete step until Michael put up the swing.
“So, how are things at the club?” She asked him.
“Not too bad. I had to fire Robyn this afternoon.”
“How come?”
“She kept fondling her boyfriend in front of the customers.”
“That’s not surprising. Like mother like daughter.”
“Yeah exactly. The worst part was her boyfriend looked different night.”
“She really IS like her mother then isn’t she?”
“Yeah. Hopefully she will settle down before she totally mimics her though.”
Robyn was their neighbor Alayna’s daughter. Alayna had always been wild. As a matter of fact, she had a different guy going in her house every night. She had Robyn when she was 14 and had another child every couple of years since then. She was up to 9 now.
“So who closed?” Isabel asked.
“Jerry did. He is the most trustworthy one we have in there. How are the books coming along?” He asked her.
“Pretty good. You’re a little short for the week but your overall income for the month was well above. I guess adding the karaoke section really helped?”
“Yeah it did. It amazes me how many people around here like to sing. Maria and Liz sure love it.”
“There’s a shocker! I can imagine Maria does. She has always loved to sing. But Liz? I would have never guessed that!”
“I know. I was shocked too. But she’s really good. I think for a lot of people it’s a way of relieving stress.”
“I could see how it would be.” She replied. “I wish I could be there more but with the kids and everything that has to be done around here it isn’t real feasable.”
“You know what babe? You do more for me here than most do at the club. I really don’t know what I’d do without you. And I sure as hell don’t know anyone else who would put up with me.”
“Me either! But don’t worry Spaceboy. I don’t plan on leaving. The money is too good!”
“Oh so that’s all I’m good for hu? Just a money thing?”
“No. Your earring is pretty nice too.” She had finally convinced him right after Thanksgiving to get his ear pierced. She had been trying for years and he finally gave in.
“Oh I see. Well as long as you approve of my earring I guess it’s all good.”
“Damn well better be. You cant do any better than me Spaceboy.” She joked.
“No but you could sure do better than me. As a matter of fact, I heard that Jerry is single.”
“Well, he is going to have to stay single. I can only handle one man and I’m quite pleased with my current make and model. He leaned over and kissed her. “Me too.”
Isabel stood up and looking at Michael said “Well, I’m gonna go check on the kids and head on to bed. It’s been a long day and I’m tired.”
He nodded. “Ok. I’ll be right up.”
Michael followed Isabel into the house but veered off toward the kitchen to get the coffee pot ready for the next morning and make sure the doors were all locked up. He started toward the bathroom to brush his teeth when he heard Isabel come running down the stairs.
“Michael! Did you hear Amber get up while we were outside?”
“No.” He said. “We had the monitor right beside us. If she got up we would have heard it.”
Isabel started to hyperventilate.
“Isabel. Is, calm down a minute and tell me what’s wrong.”
“She’s gone Michael. Amber’s gone!”
TBC…
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Roswell4ever1
- Addicted Roswellian
- Posts: 294
- Joined: Sat Mar 13, 2004 12:15 am
- Contact:
The Roads We Take
Book Two: The Guerin Agenda
Disclaimer: I own nothing!
Part Two: Understandings
“Isabel calm down for a minute.”
“Calm down? Calm down! Michael our daughter is missing and you want me to calm down?”
“Just tell me where all you looked.”
“I looked all over the upstairs and she is nowhere to be found.”
“Ok, I will look down here. You go check upstairs again. She has to be here somewhere.”
They both ran their separate ways in search of little Amber. Isabel carried Maxwell in a baby harness. He had his head on her chest and was sleeping peacefully. She refused to put him down. She was too afraid he would disappear too. They searched the house from top to bottom with no sign of Amber. Michael was just about to head back upstairs when he saw a white piece of paper on the refrigerator. He took it down and looked at it. The words caused his heart to fall into the pit of his stomach.
“Isabel!”
Isabel came running down the stairs to find Michael sitting at the kitchen table with his hands on his cheeks. She knew that look. It was the look he had every time he was on the verge of crying but was trying to remain strong. That look scared her.
“Michael? Michael what did you find?”
Michael handed her the note. Isabel began to read.
Such a shame. Beautiful blue eyes with perfect little
White specks. Blonde hair so thick. A true shame
that the past must perish. A new beautiful little princess
fit to be the queen. Yet the throne is empty. A kingdom destroyed.
When will you learn? When it’s too late? The end is near. Your
time limited. Your princess is depending on you. One wrong
move Guerin, and the innocent one will die. What will you
do now? The Guerin Agenda has begun.
Michael jumped up and grabbed his cell phone. He dialed the first number that came to mind.
“Jim. Someone took Amber. We need a meeting. NOW!” Valenti and Michael went to work calling the rest of the gang. They all met at The Crashdown twenty minutes later.
The whole group was waiting when Michael and Isabel got there. Everyone except Jim that is. He hadn’t gotten there yet. It was almost Christmas already so Alex, Tess and Amy had come back from New York to be with their family and friends. Some holiday this was going to turn out to be!
As soon as Jim walked in, Michael handed him the note.
“It sounds like some kind of riddle Michael. Do you have any idea what it might mean?”
“None. I was hoping you or Max would know. I tried looking in that book we found out in the desert last summer but I cant make it out.” Jim handed the paper to Max. He read it over and over out loud but was drawing a blank. Isabel was a wreck. She sat next to Michael in the booth feeding little Maxwell. Tapping her left foot and flipping her hair were the only movements she made.
“Hey Michael, did you bring the book with you?” Liz asked.
“Yeah, but it’s just a bunch of symbols. It doesn’t make any sense.”
“Maybe not yet but I bought a new program last week. I want to see if I can translate it.”
“By all means give it a shot. But I don’t think it will work.”
“Well I have to try anyway.”
As minutes turned to hours and hours turned to all night, they all sat there trying to figure out what to do next while Liz and Alex worked on the program.
“Hey guys I think I’ve got it! Everyone come sit down.”
Everyone pulled their chairs around the booth in hopes of some answers.
Alex looked over at Isabel then back at Max. “Hey Max. Read that again would ya?”
Max looked at Alex then at the paper. He started to read.
Such a shame. Beautiful blue eyes with perfect little
White specks. Blonde hair so thick. A true shame
that the past must perish. A new beautiful little princess
fit to be the queen. Yet the throne is empty. A kingdom destroyed.
When will you learn? When it’s too late? The end is near. Your
time limited. Your princess is depending on you. One wrong
move Guerin, and the innocent one will die. What will you
do now? The Guerin Agenda has begun.
Alex sat there for a minute and let it all sink in.
“It’s Isabel.”
“What?” Michael asked.
“Whoever is doing this wants Isabel. Amber is being used as a pawn. They know Isabel will go looking for her.” Liz said.
“Wait a damn minute!” Michael said. “Why do they want Isabel?”
Alex looked at them all intently. “They think Amber should be the new queen.”
“Queen of what exactly?” Maria asked.
“According to the book, the planet we are from is ruled by royalty. The royalty that’s in place now is not really well liked. They want to change that.”
“But why Amber?” Jim asked.
“Because, she is born of two of the Royal Four.” Alex said.
“You’re saying that Isabel and I are Royalty?” Michael asked.
“Appears that way. Along with Max and Liz.” Alex said. “Max apparently was the king. Liz being your wife Max, was the Queen.”
“So what do we have to do with it?” Isabel asked.
“Michael was Max’s Second In Command. You Isabel, are his wife so you were second to the Queen.”
“Wait, if Amber was the Queen, she would be married to Max?” Isabel asked.
“No.” Alex said.
“Well how could Amber be the Queen and not be married to the King?” Maria asked.
“Well, according to this, due to severe conflict, Max and Liz stepped down leaving Michael and Isabel as the new royalty.” Alex said.
“So you’re saying she would be married to her dad? Eew!” Maria said.
“No. She wouldn’t be married to Michael either.”
“This is getting way to confusing.” Kyle mumbled.
“Very few people like Michael and Isabel. When Max and Liz were King and Queen, things were different. There were very few rules. People did pretty much what they wanted because Max and Liz were not the controlling type. When Michael and Isabel became King and Queen, they tried to set order. Tried to end the conflict and tried to lay down some rules in the hopes of making peace again. Not too many people like rules.”
“So they don’t like us. Whoop tee do! What does this have to do with Amber?” Michael asked.
“They want you and Isabel out. They plan to overthrow you.”
“And who exactly would be the king?” Tess asked.
“Liz is pregnant with twins. One of which is a boy. Ergo the new king.”
“You’re saying my wife is giving birth to the new king of …of…wherever we are from?”
“Antar. And yes.” Alex said.
“But Amber would be three years older than him.” Max said.
“Time is of no essence on Antar. It doesn’t even exist.”
“I’m still confused as to why they want Isabel though.” Kyle said.
“Amber is supposed to be the new Queen but because Isabel was the present Queen, she stands in the way. Something major is happening and they need to get Amber in there. Like I said, time has no meaning to them. Although she looks like an ordinary three year old here, she is fully capable of ruling Antar quite effectively. Your daughter is extremely bright and you have no idea what she is capable of.”
“Do they really think I am just going to let them have my daughter?” Isabel asked.
“Nope. That’s why they kidnapped her. They know you will go looking for her. They are waiting for you.” Liz said.
“Waiting for me? For what?” Isabel asked.
“Because in order to get Amber on the throne, you have to die.”
TBC…
Book Two: The Guerin Agenda
Disclaimer: I own nothing!
Part Two: Understandings
“Isabel calm down for a minute.”
“Calm down? Calm down! Michael our daughter is missing and you want me to calm down?”
“Just tell me where all you looked.”
“I looked all over the upstairs and she is nowhere to be found.”
“Ok, I will look down here. You go check upstairs again. She has to be here somewhere.”
They both ran their separate ways in search of little Amber. Isabel carried Maxwell in a baby harness. He had his head on her chest and was sleeping peacefully. She refused to put him down. She was too afraid he would disappear too. They searched the house from top to bottom with no sign of Amber. Michael was just about to head back upstairs when he saw a white piece of paper on the refrigerator. He took it down and looked at it. The words caused his heart to fall into the pit of his stomach.
“Isabel!”
Isabel came running down the stairs to find Michael sitting at the kitchen table with his hands on his cheeks. She knew that look. It was the look he had every time he was on the verge of crying but was trying to remain strong. That look scared her.
“Michael? Michael what did you find?”
Michael handed her the note. Isabel began to read.
Such a shame. Beautiful blue eyes with perfect little
White specks. Blonde hair so thick. A true shame
that the past must perish. A new beautiful little princess
fit to be the queen. Yet the throne is empty. A kingdom destroyed.
When will you learn? When it’s too late? The end is near. Your
time limited. Your princess is depending on you. One wrong
move Guerin, and the innocent one will die. What will you
do now? The Guerin Agenda has begun.
Michael jumped up and grabbed his cell phone. He dialed the first number that came to mind.
“Jim. Someone took Amber. We need a meeting. NOW!” Valenti and Michael went to work calling the rest of the gang. They all met at The Crashdown twenty minutes later.
The whole group was waiting when Michael and Isabel got there. Everyone except Jim that is. He hadn’t gotten there yet. It was almost Christmas already so Alex, Tess and Amy had come back from New York to be with their family and friends. Some holiday this was going to turn out to be!
As soon as Jim walked in, Michael handed him the note.
“It sounds like some kind of riddle Michael. Do you have any idea what it might mean?”
“None. I was hoping you or Max would know. I tried looking in that book we found out in the desert last summer but I cant make it out.” Jim handed the paper to Max. He read it over and over out loud but was drawing a blank. Isabel was a wreck. She sat next to Michael in the booth feeding little Maxwell. Tapping her left foot and flipping her hair were the only movements she made.
“Hey Michael, did you bring the book with you?” Liz asked.
“Yeah, but it’s just a bunch of symbols. It doesn’t make any sense.”
“Maybe not yet but I bought a new program last week. I want to see if I can translate it.”
“By all means give it a shot. But I don’t think it will work.”
“Well I have to try anyway.”
As minutes turned to hours and hours turned to all night, they all sat there trying to figure out what to do next while Liz and Alex worked on the program.
“Hey guys I think I’ve got it! Everyone come sit down.”
Everyone pulled their chairs around the booth in hopes of some answers.
Alex looked over at Isabel then back at Max. “Hey Max. Read that again would ya?”
Max looked at Alex then at the paper. He started to read.
Such a shame. Beautiful blue eyes with perfect little
White specks. Blonde hair so thick. A true shame
that the past must perish. A new beautiful little princess
fit to be the queen. Yet the throne is empty. A kingdom destroyed.
When will you learn? When it’s too late? The end is near. Your
time limited. Your princess is depending on you. One wrong
move Guerin, and the innocent one will die. What will you
do now? The Guerin Agenda has begun.
Alex sat there for a minute and let it all sink in.
“It’s Isabel.”
“What?” Michael asked.
“Whoever is doing this wants Isabel. Amber is being used as a pawn. They know Isabel will go looking for her.” Liz said.
“Wait a damn minute!” Michael said. “Why do they want Isabel?”
Alex looked at them all intently. “They think Amber should be the new queen.”
“Queen of what exactly?” Maria asked.
“According to the book, the planet we are from is ruled by royalty. The royalty that’s in place now is not really well liked. They want to change that.”
“But why Amber?” Jim asked.
“Because, she is born of two of the Royal Four.” Alex said.
“You’re saying that Isabel and I are Royalty?” Michael asked.
“Appears that way. Along with Max and Liz.” Alex said. “Max apparently was the king. Liz being your wife Max, was the Queen.”
“So what do we have to do with it?” Isabel asked.
“Michael was Max’s Second In Command. You Isabel, are his wife so you were second to the Queen.”
“Wait, if Amber was the Queen, she would be married to Max?” Isabel asked.
“No.” Alex said.
“Well how could Amber be the Queen and not be married to the King?” Maria asked.
“Well, according to this, due to severe conflict, Max and Liz stepped down leaving Michael and Isabel as the new royalty.” Alex said.
“So you’re saying she would be married to her dad? Eew!” Maria said.
“No. She wouldn’t be married to Michael either.”
“This is getting way to confusing.” Kyle mumbled.
“Very few people like Michael and Isabel. When Max and Liz were King and Queen, things were different. There were very few rules. People did pretty much what they wanted because Max and Liz were not the controlling type. When Michael and Isabel became King and Queen, they tried to set order. Tried to end the conflict and tried to lay down some rules in the hopes of making peace again. Not too many people like rules.”
“So they don’t like us. Whoop tee do! What does this have to do with Amber?” Michael asked.
“They want you and Isabel out. They plan to overthrow you.”
“And who exactly would be the king?” Tess asked.
“Liz is pregnant with twins. One of which is a boy. Ergo the new king.”
“You’re saying my wife is giving birth to the new king of …of…wherever we are from?”
“Antar. And yes.” Alex said.
“But Amber would be three years older than him.” Max said.
“Time is of no essence on Antar. It doesn’t even exist.”
“I’m still confused as to why they want Isabel though.” Kyle said.
“Amber is supposed to be the new Queen but because Isabel was the present Queen, she stands in the way. Something major is happening and they need to get Amber in there. Like I said, time has no meaning to them. Although she looks like an ordinary three year old here, she is fully capable of ruling Antar quite effectively. Your daughter is extremely bright and you have no idea what she is capable of.”
“Do they really think I am just going to let them have my daughter?” Isabel asked.
“Nope. That’s why they kidnapped her. They know you will go looking for her. They are waiting for you.” Liz said.
“Waiting for me? For what?” Isabel asked.
“Because in order to get Amber on the throne, you have to die.”
TBC…
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Roswell4ever1
- Addicted Roswellian
- Posts: 294
- Joined: Sat Mar 13, 2004 12:15 am
- Contact:
The Roads We Take: Book Two- The Guerin Agenda
Part Three: Terminator
author: Roswell4ever1
email(if you like): leann1092000@yahoo.com
spoliers: Not a chance!
rating: R
summery: Michael gets an upsetting phone call from Amber's abductor.
warrnings if any: None.
Disclaimer: I own nothing!
“Ok, so we know that they want Amber as Queen, but the question is who are they?” Isabel asked.
“I wish I knew, but I don’t. It doesn’t say. It would make it a whole lot easier if we knew though. At least then we could narrow things down.” Alex said as he put his head in his hand.
Michael was about to speak when the phone at the Crashdown rang. He pushed the speaker button and answered “What?”
“Mr. Guerin. Your time is quickly running out.” Michael was livid.
“Who the hell are you?” He barked.
“That is of no importance Mr. Guerin.”
“No importance? You take my daughter and then have the nerve to tell me who you are is of no importance?”
“You’re missing the point here Mr. Guerin. The point is I have your child and if you want to see her again, you’ll give me what I want.”
“No you son of a bitch! The point is if you harm one hair on my daughter’s head, I’ll tear you to pieces starting with your eyes and you will feel every damn bit of it. Where is she?”
The man laughed. “Mr. Guerin, your empty little threats are going to do you no good. You haven’t even been smart enough to figure out who I am. What makes you think you possess the brain cells to find me?”
“You listen to me you bastard, I will find you. And nothing is going to save you. You’ve messed with the wrong damn person this time. Give me my daughter!”
“Mr. Guerin, you really are wasting your breath. You aren’t going to see so much as one of her fingernails until you give me what I want.”
“What you want is for me to give you my wife for my daughter. Do you really expect me to just trade them off? To choose between them?”
“You will come to realize Mr. Guerin, there really is no choice here. It’s a matter of do or die. The question here, is which one of them are you willing to let die?”
“You don’t want Amber dead. You want her to be the queen. She cant be your queen if she has no pulse!”
The man laughed evilly. “You really aren’t very smart are you? You think you figured me out? You and your little friends. Your little book means nothing. We don’t want a queen Mr. Guerin. We need a terminator. A soldier willing to fight for her people. Willing to kill for them. Willing to die for them.”
“You plan to turn my child into a monster. To use her. And for what? For power? For superiority?”
“For justice. For life.”
“Lets get one thing straight here.” Michael said through clenched teeth. “You give me my child back or this life you speak of will cease to exist.”
“Mr. Guerin, I have the child now. She is no longer your daughter. She is now my possession and once she has served her purpose, she will be sacrificed.”
“The only thing you are going to possess is my foot up your ass if you harm her in any way.”
“Will that be before or after you cut my eyes out? Really Mr. Guerin, this tough guy act isn’t very becoming. You bring what I want to the old mill by midnight tonight or the child dies.” The phone clicked. Michael picked up a coffee cup off the table and threw it across the room.
“I’ll kill him! No one harms my family. NO ONE!!”
Isabel, through her tears, looked up at the clock. 11:15 P.M. They had 45 minutes to figure out who this man was. 45 minutes to save an entire planet. 45 minutes to save their daughter. They couldn’t afford to be even one minute late. Amber’s life hung in the balance.
TBC…
Part Three: Terminator
author: Roswell4ever1
email(if you like): leann1092000@yahoo.com
spoliers: Not a chance!
rating: R
summery: Michael gets an upsetting phone call from Amber's abductor.
warrnings if any: None.
Disclaimer: I own nothing!
“Ok, so we know that they want Amber as Queen, but the question is who are they?” Isabel asked.
“I wish I knew, but I don’t. It doesn’t say. It would make it a whole lot easier if we knew though. At least then we could narrow things down.” Alex said as he put his head in his hand.
Michael was about to speak when the phone at the Crashdown rang. He pushed the speaker button and answered “What?”
“Mr. Guerin. Your time is quickly running out.” Michael was livid.
“Who the hell are you?” He barked.
“That is of no importance Mr. Guerin.”
“No importance? You take my daughter and then have the nerve to tell me who you are is of no importance?”
“You’re missing the point here Mr. Guerin. The point is I have your child and if you want to see her again, you’ll give me what I want.”
“No you son of a bitch! The point is if you harm one hair on my daughter’s head, I’ll tear you to pieces starting with your eyes and you will feel every damn bit of it. Where is she?”
The man laughed. “Mr. Guerin, your empty little threats are going to do you no good. You haven’t even been smart enough to figure out who I am. What makes you think you possess the brain cells to find me?”
“You listen to me you bastard, I will find you. And nothing is going to save you. You’ve messed with the wrong damn person this time. Give me my daughter!”
“Mr. Guerin, you really are wasting your breath. You aren’t going to see so much as one of her fingernails until you give me what I want.”
“What you want is for me to give you my wife for my daughter. Do you really expect me to just trade them off? To choose between them?”
“You will come to realize Mr. Guerin, there really is no choice here. It’s a matter of do or die. The question here, is which one of them are you willing to let die?”
“You don’t want Amber dead. You want her to be the queen. She cant be your queen if she has no pulse!”
The man laughed evilly. “You really aren’t very smart are you? You think you figured me out? You and your little friends. Your little book means nothing. We don’t want a queen Mr. Guerin. We need a terminator. A soldier willing to fight for her people. Willing to kill for them. Willing to die for them.”
“You plan to turn my child into a monster. To use her. And for what? For power? For superiority?”
“For justice. For life.”
“Lets get one thing straight here.” Michael said through clenched teeth. “You give me my child back or this life you speak of will cease to exist.”
“Mr. Guerin, I have the child now. She is no longer your daughter. She is now my possession and once she has served her purpose, she will be sacrificed.”
“The only thing you are going to possess is my foot up your ass if you harm her in any way.”
“Will that be before or after you cut my eyes out? Really Mr. Guerin, this tough guy act isn’t very becoming. You bring what I want to the old mill by midnight tonight or the child dies.” The phone clicked. Michael picked up a coffee cup off the table and threw it across the room.
“I’ll kill him! No one harms my family. NO ONE!!”
Isabel, through her tears, looked up at the clock. 11:15 P.M. They had 45 minutes to figure out who this man was. 45 minutes to save an entire planet. 45 minutes to save their daughter. They couldn’t afford to be even one minute late. Amber’s life hung in the balance.
TBC…
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Roswell4ever1
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The Roads We Take Book 2
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
The Guerin Agenda
Written by Roswell4ever1
Email(if you like): leann1092000@yahoo.com
Spoliers: Nope!
Rating: R
Summery: Michael and Isabel must go to Amber's rescue. What will happen when they figure out who the abductor is?
Warrnings if any: Character death.
Part Four: When Trust Isn’t Enough
45 Minutes just didn’t seem like enough time. It wasn’t enough time. But it was all they had. The group talked for a couple of minutes discussing the circumstances and decided that Michael and Isabel would drive to the old mill with the rest of the group in the jeep behind them. They would be there in case things got bad and Michael and Isabel needed backup. It had started pouring rain on the way which made the dirt roads slick causing the drive to take a little longer than it normally would. By the time they got there it was 11:43. Just 17 minutes to spare.
Michael and Isabel walked into the mill while the rest of the group swarmed around the outside where they could hear everything. Looking around, it appeared that no one else was there. But then Michael and Isabel heard a faint little cry. It was Amber. She was in the next room. Michael started toward the door when he was hit across the face. He regained his balance but still could see no one but Isabel who stood beside him.
“What was that Michael?” Isabel asked.
“I don’t know. I didn’t see anything.”
“Whoever this is Michael, he’s powerful.”
“You damn well better believe that missy.” The voice was loud but seemed to come from everywhere. It surrounded them. Michael was beyond frustrated. He couldn’t just stand there when his daughter was in the next room just beyond his reach.
“Who the hell are you? Why don’t you come and face me like a man?” Michael yelled.
There was an evil laugh that again seemed to surround them. “Aah Michael. You’re going to learn very quickly that we are going to do things my way. Not yours.”
“Michael, I recognize that voice.” Isabel whispered in his ear.
“Yeah, so do I but I can’t place it.” He replied.
“Damn it. Why does this have to happen to us?” Isabel whispered again.
“Of course you recognize my voice. We’ve met before. And you know why this is happening Mrs. Guerin. You both brought it on yourselves with your stupid little rules and laws. You caused the war to be what it is and now you have the nerve to while like sniveling little babies because things aren’t going your way? Well get over it!”
Max, Liz and the rest of the group stood outside listening. Liz stood there in shock of what the man was saying. She looked at Max with a tear running down her face.
“Max why? Why is this happening? I don’t understand why.”
Max held her close and looked into her eyes. Wiping a tear away, he said “I don’t understand it either. I thought he was on our side.”
Michael was mad enough to spit nails and at one point thought he would. “We aren’t who we were on Antar you bastard! Just give us back our daughter!”
The laugh was getting closer. Michael turned around and saw a man standing in the doorway to the office. It was dark so all he could see was the man’s outline.
“Do you really think you can come in here and give me orders Michael? I’m calling the shots remember? Don’t underestimate me or you will quickly regret it.”
Realization set in. Michael finally realized who he was dealing with and the thought of it scared him to death. They had trusted this man. Believed he was good. So much for trust.
“Oh you can be assured, I already regret it. I regret ever believing we could trust someone as sick and twisted as you are. This whole time you have been against us haven’t you?”
“He finally gets something right.” The man snickered. “And here I thought you were just a stupid little piss ant with no brain.”
“What do you really want? This bullshit story of yours is getting very old.” Michael spat out.
“Bullshit story hu? I’ve made it very clear what I want Michael. The question here is, how far are you willing to go to get what you want? You think you’re so smart. You think your meaningless little life actually means something. When in reality you’re just a scared little boy whose afraid to lose because your little friends just might not need you anymore."
“Alright that’s enough you sorry excuse for life.” Isabel yelled out.
“Shut your trap bitch. What you have to say isn’t going to save your little pretty boy husband. I should have killed you off a very long time ago. All of you. There isn’t one of you who is worth a damn. Just a waste of air.”
By now they all knew who this man was and the thought that someone that close to them could turn on them so easily scared the hell out of them. Maria was physically sickened by the whole situation.
“You know what Michael? I think I’ll just go ahead and do that. Kill you all. That way I wont have to waste my time on you later and little Amber will serve her purpose.” The man raised his hand and started to blast at Michael. Pushing Isabel behind a wall, Michael ducked and blasted back at the enemy at hand. The man was strong. Very powerful and Michael feared he would get the best of him. The walls of the old mill were collapsing around them and Amber was in greater danger now than she was before. The room could fall in on her at any moment. Michael managed to hit him once but it barely phased the man. He gave that evil laugh again as he hit Michael across the chest. Michael hit the ground and looked up at the man as he towered over him.
“Any last words Michael?” Michael looked at him figuring this was it. He was going to die at the hands of this traitor and their daughter was going to be used as a sacrificial terminator.
“Here are a few words for you. Go to hell asshole!” She yelled as she blasted the man across the room. Michael looked up to see Liz standing in the entryway of the mill with her hand raised in front of her. “Thank you.” He told her.
“I’m sorry.” Was her response. Liz walked into the office and grabbed baby Amber. She took her to Isabel who held Amber with dear life. Liz then went over to where the body of the enemy lay and kneeled down beside him. Pulling his eyelids closed, she stood and walked to the door behind Michael and Isabel. Looking back at the body, she said “Goodbye daddy.”
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
The Guerin Agenda
Written by Roswell4ever1
Email(if you like): leann1092000@yahoo.com
Spoliers: Nope!
Rating: R
Summery: Michael and Isabel must go to Amber's rescue. What will happen when they figure out who the abductor is?
Warrnings if any: Character death.
Part Four: When Trust Isn’t Enough
45 Minutes just didn’t seem like enough time. It wasn’t enough time. But it was all they had. The group talked for a couple of minutes discussing the circumstances and decided that Michael and Isabel would drive to the old mill with the rest of the group in the jeep behind them. They would be there in case things got bad and Michael and Isabel needed backup. It had started pouring rain on the way which made the dirt roads slick causing the drive to take a little longer than it normally would. By the time they got there it was 11:43. Just 17 minutes to spare.
Michael and Isabel walked into the mill while the rest of the group swarmed around the outside where they could hear everything. Looking around, it appeared that no one else was there. But then Michael and Isabel heard a faint little cry. It was Amber. She was in the next room. Michael started toward the door when he was hit across the face. He regained his balance but still could see no one but Isabel who stood beside him.
“What was that Michael?” Isabel asked.
“I don’t know. I didn’t see anything.”
“Whoever this is Michael, he’s powerful.”
“You damn well better believe that missy.” The voice was loud but seemed to come from everywhere. It surrounded them. Michael was beyond frustrated. He couldn’t just stand there when his daughter was in the next room just beyond his reach.
“Who the hell are you? Why don’t you come and face me like a man?” Michael yelled.
There was an evil laugh that again seemed to surround them. “Aah Michael. You’re going to learn very quickly that we are going to do things my way. Not yours.”
“Michael, I recognize that voice.” Isabel whispered in his ear.
“Yeah, so do I but I can’t place it.” He replied.
“Damn it. Why does this have to happen to us?” Isabel whispered again.
“Of course you recognize my voice. We’ve met before. And you know why this is happening Mrs. Guerin. You both brought it on yourselves with your stupid little rules and laws. You caused the war to be what it is and now you have the nerve to while like sniveling little babies because things aren’t going your way? Well get over it!”
Max, Liz and the rest of the group stood outside listening. Liz stood there in shock of what the man was saying. She looked at Max with a tear running down her face.
“Max why? Why is this happening? I don’t understand why.”
Max held her close and looked into her eyes. Wiping a tear away, he said “I don’t understand it either. I thought he was on our side.”
Michael was mad enough to spit nails and at one point thought he would. “We aren’t who we were on Antar you bastard! Just give us back our daughter!”
The laugh was getting closer. Michael turned around and saw a man standing in the doorway to the office. It was dark so all he could see was the man’s outline.
“Do you really think you can come in here and give me orders Michael? I’m calling the shots remember? Don’t underestimate me or you will quickly regret it.”
Realization set in. Michael finally realized who he was dealing with and the thought of it scared him to death. They had trusted this man. Believed he was good. So much for trust.
“Oh you can be assured, I already regret it. I regret ever believing we could trust someone as sick and twisted as you are. This whole time you have been against us haven’t you?”
“He finally gets something right.” The man snickered. “And here I thought you were just a stupid little piss ant with no brain.”
“What do you really want? This bullshit story of yours is getting very old.” Michael spat out.
“Bullshit story hu? I’ve made it very clear what I want Michael. The question here is, how far are you willing to go to get what you want? You think you’re so smart. You think your meaningless little life actually means something. When in reality you’re just a scared little boy whose afraid to lose because your little friends just might not need you anymore."
“Alright that’s enough you sorry excuse for life.” Isabel yelled out.
“Shut your trap bitch. What you have to say isn’t going to save your little pretty boy husband. I should have killed you off a very long time ago. All of you. There isn’t one of you who is worth a damn. Just a waste of air.”
By now they all knew who this man was and the thought that someone that close to them could turn on them so easily scared the hell out of them. Maria was physically sickened by the whole situation.
“You know what Michael? I think I’ll just go ahead and do that. Kill you all. That way I wont have to waste my time on you later and little Amber will serve her purpose.” The man raised his hand and started to blast at Michael. Pushing Isabel behind a wall, Michael ducked and blasted back at the enemy at hand. The man was strong. Very powerful and Michael feared he would get the best of him. The walls of the old mill were collapsing around them and Amber was in greater danger now than she was before. The room could fall in on her at any moment. Michael managed to hit him once but it barely phased the man. He gave that evil laugh again as he hit Michael across the chest. Michael hit the ground and looked up at the man as he towered over him.
“Any last words Michael?” Michael looked at him figuring this was it. He was going to die at the hands of this traitor and their daughter was going to be used as a sacrificial terminator.
“Here are a few words for you. Go to hell asshole!” She yelled as she blasted the man across the room. Michael looked up to see Liz standing in the entryway of the mill with her hand raised in front of her. “Thank you.” He told her.
“I’m sorry.” Was her response. Liz walked into the office and grabbed baby Amber. She took her to Isabel who held Amber with dear life. Liz then went over to where the body of the enemy lay and kneeled down beside him. Pulling his eyelids closed, she stood and walked to the door behind Michael and Isabel. Looking back at the body, she said “Goodbye daddy.”