It's a Wonderful... (CC, ALL, TEEN) [COMPLETE]

[Biged]

Title: It's a Wonderful Roswell Christmas
Author: Biged
Disclaimer: The characters of "Roswell" belong to Jason Katims, Melinda Metz, WB, and UPN. They are not mine and no infringement is intended."
Pairings/Couples/Category: All Couples/CC
Rating: TEEN
Summary: My take on A nice Roswell Christmas. Can the guys handle shopping and the Christmas nazi.
Author's Note: I use some situtations from the show but changed in accordance to fit the story and this story has not been beta'ed so don't mind the little mistakes LOL
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Part 1

The Crashdown bustled with activity and it was apparent that the holiday was in full force as people stopped in from their last minute shopping. He walked in and scanned the packed restaurant, the hectic waitresses running around serving the patrons. His eyes fell on a particular waitress, a waitress he would spend hours staring at.

She felt his eyes on her, scanning her body and her eyes gravitated to his. She smiled at him, losing herself in his amber eyes. She became aware that somebody was talking to her. “Um…I think it’s full now.” She turned her eyes to her task of pouring coffee, a task which she was failing miserably at as the cup overflowed and ran all over the counter top.

“I am so sorry let me get something to clean this up with.” Liz hurried herself cleaning up the mess as she mentally berated herself for being so stupid. She noticed that a figure walked up to her and stood beside her, she glanced sideways and looked at Max. “Hey Max I thought you were working today?” She asked as she poured another cup of coffee for the elderly patron.

“I am but it’s my lunch break so I thought I would come and see how you all are doing in here.” He looked around, focusing on Maria who had a group of kids running around her legs as she attempted to lay their food down on the counter. He laughed as she sniffed her cedar oil, attempting to calm herself down. “Maria doesn’t seem to be fairing too well though.”

Liz turned her attention to her best friend and let out a laugh. “Yea well it’s a busy day so I should probably go help her out.” She looked at Max and let out a sigh but she smiled as she did so. “I will be back to take your order.” She made her way to help Maria who was close to losing it as attempted to remove a kid who had decided to take refuge by attaching himself to her leg.

Michael wiped the sweat from his face as he drank his cherry coke. He hated working the grill on holidays but Maria had persuaded him to work. He shook his head as he watched Liz untangling the small child from Maria’s leg. The bell above the door jingled as Isabel walked hurriedly though the Café and made her way to the back room. ‘God she even has a clipboard.’ Michael let out a sigh and he tried to busy himself with his work hoping that Isabel wouldn’t bother him, no such luck.

“Michael there you are.” She said as she strode over to him.

“Where else would I be?” He grunted as he watched her go over her list that had appeared out of no where.

She glared at him. “Well I decided to take it upon myself to help you not screw up with Maria, so what did you get her?”

“I didn’t get her anything.” He replied bluntly as he flipped the burgers.

“What do you mean you didn’t get her anything?” Isabel was trying to keep her voice down but sometimes Michael angered her.

“Well Maria said that we didn’t have to exchange gifts this year, so I didn’t buy her anything.” Michael looked at Isabel with a Duh look which didn’t help with Isabel disposition.

“You know I try to make things perfect every Christmas I try to spread a little Christmas spirit and what happens, somebody is always trying screw it up and that somebody always seems to be you!” She glared at him again, her cheeks flushed from anger.

“What do you mean I always ruin things?” Michael shouted back as he defended himself.

“Well last year you managed to trip and take out our Christmas tree with you, the year before that you shorted out the electricity when you were putting up lights….the year before that…”

Kyle wandered into the Crashdown with Tess trailing him, her golden locks bobbing with her as she walked. Tess wore upon her head, a Santa hat that bounced along with her. They walked up to Max who was looking towards the break room door. “Hey El Presidente what are you looking at?” He asked Max but it became clear as he heard Isabel’s raised voice echo from the back room. Kyle let out a chuckle. “What did Michael do now?” Max simply shrugged.

Michael walked out of the backroom, his face tired and weary. He noticed that Kyle was staring at him and a thought formed in his mind. He grabbed Kyle by the arm and started to drag him out of the Crashdown. Kyle protested, wanting to know where they were going. “You and I are going shopping!” Michael continued to pull Kyle.

Once they got out onto the sidewalk Kyle pulled his arm free from Michael’s death grip. “And why am I going shopping with you?” Kyle was not a shopper nor did he really want to be.

“You’re going with me because I am not doing this alone and don’t you want to get something for Tess?” A look of realization and shock formed on Kyle’s face.

“I’m supposed to get her something?!” Kyle exclaimed as he started to walk to his car rambling on about what he could get her.

Michael watched him momentarily before chasing after him, with a smirk on his face. ‘I knew that would work’

Back in the Crashdown Tess started at the door which Kyle and Michael had rushed though, not really knowing what to make of the situation. She turned to Max and fixed a quizzical glance on him, hoping he could tell her what was going on.

Max shrugged as he glanced at her, he did a double take as he noticed her hat. “Isabel get to you?” Max chuckled as Tess growled.

“Yea…but at least it keeps my head warm.” She was trying to be cheerful and make the best of the situation she was in. “I never really had a chance to celebrate this holiday before Nacedo always said it was for ‘Humans’ and I wasn’t one.” She lowered her head and thought of her childhood or lack there of. She shook herself out of her gloom thoughts and turned and smiled cheerfully at Max.

“Yea that must have been rough but at least you get to celebrate it this year…if Isabel has anything to do with it, they don’t call her the Christmas Nazi for nothing…” Max trailed off as Isabel stormed into the dining area from the back room, a triumphant smile gracing her full lip. “Well speak of the devil” Max said is a hushed voice as she approached them.

“Ah just the two people I was looking for.” Max and Tess looked at each other, panic on both their faces. “Max I still need you to go and get a tree and you better stick to the guidelines I gave you…god knows you can’t follow my instructions when I told you to get it two days ago” She pointed her finger at him as he simply held up his hands in surrender.

“Fine…see you guys later then.” Max walked away mumbling under his breath as Tess giggled which soon subsided as she noticed that Isabel was looking at her.

“And as for you, we are going shopping so you can get the full experience…” Isabel grabbed hold of Tess and dragged her out of the Crashdown.

Maria and Liz chatted as they took orders. “I mean Brody is so sweet and his daughter was just the cutest thing…it’s so sad.” Maria rambled on about Brody and his daughter.

Liz nodded as she listened to her talk her mind occasionally wandering to thoughts of Max and if he could help Sydney but she knew not to ask. As Max had said before he is not god. “Yea it is sad…maybe we should get her a present or something.” Maria smiled at Liz.

“I already got her a present…” Maria’s smile grew as they made their way to the break room.

Liz leaned against a locker as Maria searched through her own locker and pulling out a wrapped present. “What is it?”

“It’s a Barbie! No little girl can ever have too many Barbie’s!” Maria flashed another 100 watt smile, Liz returned it. “Oh would you mind if I went over and gave her the present now?” Maria bit her lower lip and pouted.

Liz had never been able to resist Maria’s pout and it certainly was no different now. She sighed. “Ok but try not to be gone too long…I don’t want my dad to get mad ok?” Maria shrieked and hugged Liz.

“Don’t worry I will be right back!” Maria bounded through the back door leaving Liz standing there shaking her head.

*******************
Roswell Shopping Mall

People wander around in a trance as they go from store to store hoping to find the perfect gifts for their loved ones. The atmosphere charged with Christmas spirit, the sounds almost deafening as people chatted back and forth.

Michael and Kyle strolled through the crowd as they looked around for the perfect gifts for the ladies, neither of them having thought the crowd would be as large as it was. “So any ideas on what to get Tess?” Michael asked as he looked foreword.

“No clue…I mean it’s not like she is my girlfriend or anything.” He shrugged as Michael turned to him with a smirk.

“Yea…ok.” He laughed as Kyle glared at him it was obvious that Kyle had the hots for Tess now Kyle just needed to figure that out.

They walked to a corner for somewhere to talk without being bumped into. “Ok well I think we should hit J.C. Penny first cause I was thinking of getting Maria bath oils and then we can hit the jewelry stores.” They stood as if they were in a huddle in the middle of the super bowl.

“Ok that sounds like a plan to me…lets get going!” Kyle exclaimed as they once again forged though the masses in their quest for the perfect gifts.

They reached the store and it seemed more packed then the walkways were which didn’t bode well for two novice shoppers. “You take the left I will take the right and we can meet in the middle.” Michael commanded as if it were a military operation, he slapped Kyle on the back as Kyle simply stood there in shock.

Michael made his way through the crowded store and finally found his target. He looked back and forth between the different scents that each basket held and finally decided on one of the medium priced ones. He smiled in triumph as he walked to the designated meeting place and waited for Kyle all the while looking at the various items as he went. He waited for what seemed like forever in his mind but Kyle never showed so he went out looking for him. As he wandered though the store in search of his friend his frustration slowly rose. He came across a set of Scooby plates and made a mental note to surprise Maria with them later. As he walked he tripped over something on the floor and cursed to himself as he picked himself up off the floor. He turned to see what object he had fallen over and found Kyle lying on the floor curled in a fetal position mumbling something. He shook his head and looked up wondering how on earth he found himself in this particular situation. “What are you doing on the floor?” He asked still shaking his head.

Kyle looked up at his tall friend. “I was walking along minding my own business when I saw the perfect gift for Tess; it was a set of silk bed covering. When I went to pick them up some petite woman came out of no where and grabbed it and she just…just shoved me to the floor without a second thought.” Kyle shook his head and looked back to Michael. “I wanna go home…” he said sounding like a lost child.

Michael simply laughed at him and helped him off of the floor. “Why didn’t you just pick up another one?” He asked once Kyle was on his feet, a quizzical look on his face.

“That’s not the point…she just shoved me…” Michael held up his hand. “Yes I know…” Michael sighed as he grabbed another set of silk bed sheets. “Come on lets pay for these then all we have to do stop by the jewelry store.” Kyle nodded and followed Michael to the checkout.

After paying for their things they walked out of the store and headed in the direct of the jewelry store. Michael looked back at Kyle who was following closely behind him still wearing a stunned look on his face. They walked into the small shop and started to browse around. Michael found something that looked perfect for Maria, it was a pendant that looked to be white gold and it had three diamonds linked in a vertical line. He looked at the price tag and it nearly gave him a heart attack. “Three hundred dollars for that?!” He exclaimed drawing the attention of the people around him. He looked at Kyle with wide eyes and received only a shrug from his jock who proceeded to pushed him further down the display. Another piece of jewelry caught Michael’s attention it was a pair of pearl and diamond studded earrings. He looked at the price tag and found it a bit more reasonable at one hundred and forty-nine dollars. He waved over one of the sales clerks and turned to Kyle. “So find anything that you think Tess would like?”

Kyle shrugged as he eyed a pair of white gold teardrop diamond priced at one hundred dollars. He looked at the sales clerk and pointed to them. “I will take those please.”

“Pretty expensive for somebody who is ‘just a friend’ don’t ya think?” He smirked at Kyle and patted him on the back. “Don’t worry man your secret is safe with me.”

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

Maria Knocked on Brody’s door lightly and put a smile on her face. The door swung open, a surprised Brody standing there. “Maria what are you doing here?” He asked with his usual thick accent.

She beamed a 100-watt smile at him as she spoke. “Well I thought I would come by…” Maria trailed off not really sure how to finish her sentence.

“You were wondering about Sydney?” Brody asked as he looked Maria in the eyes, she nodded her reply. “She is my daughter.”

“And she has…” Brody finished her sentence off for her. “She has cancer?” Once again Maria only nodded. “Yes in her bone marrow…inoperable” Maria rubbed Brody on the arm not knowing what else to do. He noticed that she was carrying a wrapped package and curiosity got the better of him. “What’s that?” Maria stared at him for a few second, her brain not really processing what he said. She followed his gaze. “Oh this is a present for Sydney.”

“Oh…oh come in then.” He ushered her in, closing the door behind him. Maria looked around his home. ‘Not bad.’ She thought to herself as a little brown haired girl emerged from the hallway. Maria smiled at Sydney who eagerly returned it.

“Honey this is my friend Maria.” Brody said as he stood between with a smile of his own. The little girl stepped forward. “Hello.” She said in a cheerful voice.

“Hello Sydney.” She matched the cheerful tone of Sydney. “I saw you last night when I was caroling and I thought to myself ‘What a beautiful little girl, I should stop by and meet her.’ So here I am but I am not empty handed.” Maria kneeled in front of Sydney and presented her with her present. Sydney’s smile could have lit up a room. She took the present and looked up at her father for permission to open it, he nodded to her and the little girl eagerly tore the wrapping off. She jumped up and down as her dad opened the box and gave his daughter her doll, she turned to Maria grabbed a hold of her in a tight hug…well tight for a child. Sydney took off to her room to have fun with her new doll.

Brody smiled at Maria as her eyes followed the retreating form of the girl. An idea came to her as she stood there. An idea that she probably should not have even been contemplating, not like that ever stopped her. She turned to Brody. “I am sorry I can’t stay longer but I really need to be getting back to work.” Brody nodded “Thank you for coming buy and thank you for the present for my daughter.” He said as he showed her to the door. “Don’t mention it…it was my pleasure.” They said they goodbyes.

Maria strolled down the sidewalk. ‘Where would he be…ok Isabel was telling him something…’ Her eyes lit up as she walked towards the direction of the tree lot, she was on a mission, her objective was clear…find Max.

[Biged]

A/N: don't worry stargazers Alex will appear in the final part (part 3)

Part 2

Having already been to most of the stores already, Tess and Isabel continued walking around in their search to find a gift for Kyle. Of course it didn’t help that every possible gift that Isabel suggested for Kyle was turned down by Tess as she felt that his gift should be something perfect. Isabel sighed as Tess rejected another gift and moved onto another display. ‘Never thought I would get tired of shopping, but I don’t know how much longer I can take of this,’ Isabel thought to herself. Tess ignored Isabel’s sigh and continued on her search. ‘I have to find something that he would like, but what I don’t know. This Christmas is my first with the Valentis and I want it to be special. Plus I want Kyle to know that I really appreciate how much he means to me and that I appreciate everything he has done for me,’ Tess mused to herself. Moving onto the other display she took a moment to look at the crowd, all the happy faces as they shopped for Christmas. ‘It’s weird how just this time last year I was traveling with Nacedo trying to find the others and Christmas wasn’t something I really thought about, but now I’m a part of a family and I have friends. I used to look at humans and laughed at them clinging to their stupid traditions, but now I not only understand these traditions I’m a part of them as well.’ She closed her eyes as emotion swelled up and taking a deep breath she tried to figure out what was wrong with her. Not understanding what she was feeling she tried to push the emotion away and looking up she saw a couple wrapped in each arms looking at wedding bands. The guy whispered in the young woman ear causing her to laugh as Tess watched on with envy. ‘Who am I kidding? I can never have anything like that. I yearn to find something like that and be a normal teenager, but that’s not my destiny.’ Sadness washed over her as she continued to watch the couple tease each other.

Isabel finally finding what she thought was a perfect gift that Tess couldn’t reject turned to show her and noticed the somber look on her face. Not sure what was wrong Isabel lead her over a bench. They sat in silence letting the atmosphere washed over them and finally Isabel broke the silence. “Ok do you have any idea what you want to get Kyle,” she asked her silent friend. She continued to look around at what was going on around her as she waited patiently for Tess to make up her mind. ‘This is her first Christmas so I won’t rush her, but next year all bets are off,’ Isabel thought to herself.

“This is pointless, I can’t think of anything to get him,” Tess said with a sigh. Standing up with a frown she turned to Isabel. “Lets get out of here I’ll come up with something later.”

Hearing that Tess wanted to quit on her Isabel quickly stood up with her hands on her hips and started tapping her foot impatiently. “Later? There is no later Tess…its Christmas Eve.”

Tess looked at her and started to laugh slightly. “Don’t worry Isabel I will think of something so let’s go.” Tess started walking towards the exit as Isabel followed closely behind her.

Isabel looked to the side and all of the sudden crashed into the still figure of Tess. “Hey why did you stop,” she exclaimed as she regained her balance. Seeing that Tess wasn’t answering her she looked to see what had caused her friend to stop so abruptly. Looking straight ahead she finally spotted the reason why Tess had stopped. A few feet away stood Michael and Kyle coming out from a jewelry store with bags in tow and they were walking in their direction. Tess let out a little squeak and grabbed Isabel despite her protest and dragged her out of view. “What the hell,” Isabel exclaimed as she found herself regaining her balance for the second time.

“Shh,” Tess told her as she nodded towards where they just came from causing Isabel to look in that direction. Michael and Kyle strolled by their hidden position close enough to for them to hear their conversation.

“Why don’t you just tell Tess how you feel about her,” Michael asked Kyle as they walked by. Isabel opened her mouth to say something, but Tess shook her head at her. Isabel watched as Tess leaned closer to hear Kyle’s reply. Shrugging Isabel moved over to join her to hear what Kyle was saying.

“It’s not that easy man. I mean she’s all hung up on Max and her destiny,” Kyle said with a shook of his head. “Anyway you want to get something to eat,” Kyle asked Michael. Michael’s reply was lost at the two walked out of hearing range. Seeing that the guys were gone Isabel looked over at Tess who stood there with her mouth open. Tess stood in shock as she thought of what she just heard. ‘He has feelings for me? I can’t believe it. I always thought he saw me as a sister or some kind of relative.’ Suddenly she knew what would be the perfect gift for Kyle would be. Excited she turned to Isabel. “Hey did they just come out of a jewelry store,” Tess asked her. Not even waiting to hear the reply she started to drag Isabel towards the exit excited that her goal was now clear, that she now knew what would make a perfect gift for Kyle.

“Tess where are we going,” Isabel asked once they reached outside. She was slightly confused by Tess’ reaction. ‘How could she not know that Kyle liked her? It’s pretty obvious by the way he looks at her,’ Isabel thought to herself. Shaking her head she followed her to friend to her SUV.

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Maria wandered around the tree lot looking for Max and stopping every now and again to look at the trees. She spotted somebody that appeared to be measuring a tree. She let out a chuckle when she noticed that it was Max who was currently consulting a diagram on paper. ‘Isabel’s Christmas insanity never ceases to amaze me,’ she thought to herself as she made her way over to the young alien king. When she arrived behind him she noticed that he was in deep thought leaning over she tapped him on the shoulder causing him to jump. “Hey girlfriend, what’s going on,” she asked him with a smile happy that she finally had found him.

He glared at her for a second before returning his attention back to the paper he held. “Hey Maria,” he replied absently as he tried to figure out the measurements before him.

She frowned at the fact that he so easily dismissed her. She slapped him in the back of the head to get his attention. He turned at glared at her. “Oh sorry,” she told him sweetly before continuing on. “So how goes the great tree hunt?” Not sure how to exactly ask him to what she wanted to she decided to side step the issue for the moment.

Max let out a sigh and shook his head. “Not good. I really think Isabel is going to kill me,” he said in an over dramatic voice which was one of the many traits he has gained since his bonding sessions with Maria over the summer.

Maria let out a little laugh. “I am sure she won’t kill you although she may maim you a little,” Maria told him as she thought of Isabel’s reaction to Max not finishing his assigned task

“Ha ha very funny,” he told her with a roll of his eyes and returned his attention to his task, not wanting to give Isabel a reason to hurt him.

Maria sighed and shook her head. ‘This is more difficult then I first thought.’ She looked at Max for a few seconds while she worked up the courage. “Max there is something I need to ask you,” she shouted causing people to stare at her and making Max jump in surprise. Giving him a little smile of apology she moved closer to him. Seeing that she had his attention she whispered, “Max, I need a really big favor from my favorite girlfriend well alien girlfriend that is.”

Max let out a chuckle and turning his full attention to her as she continued to talk. “Now you’re probably going to say no, but I really think you should hear me out on this one. I mean I know it’s the right thing to do and you will do once you really stop and think about it…”

Max held up his hand causing Maria to stop talking. “You now this would go a lot quicker if you actually asked me what you want me to do.” Max watched as Maria blushed. ‘Man that girl can just ramble on,’ he thought to himself with a chuckle as Maria got even closer to him.

She looked around to make sure nobody could hear them. “I want you to heal Brody’s daughter of cancer.” Maria watched Max’s face for any indication of a reaction and found none. She stood there staring at him for a few more minutes not even noticing a blink out of Max. ‘Oh this can’t be good’

Max shook his head and looked at Maria like she was insane and decided to voice that thought. “Are you crazy Maria,” he asked in a hushed but firm tone. “There is too much risk involved even if I was able to heal her which I am not even sure I could.”

“Well at least you can try Max I mean you have the gift why not use it for good,” she asked desperately trying to make her point.

“I can’t. I can’t play god Maria,” he told her with a heavy sigh.

Maria lowered her gaze as she spoke. “I understand Max. Thanks anyways.” She gave him a brief hug and walked away with her head still lowered.

Max rubbed his face with his hands and suddenly a thought occurred to him. ‘If I could get Tess to help nobody would even know I was there, but should I risk our lives again?’ Max thought over the idea for a minute and found that it could work. Coming to a decision he stood up and chased after Maria. “Maria,” he shouted to her before she got across the street.

She turned around and looked at him with a smile on her face and waited for him to catch up to her. “Yes,” she asked but she was pretty sure she knew the answer.

“If we can get Tess to help we might be able to pull this off with the least amount of suspicion possible.” He gave her a warm smile which Maria returned. “After all tis’ the season to help others right,” he asked her with a small smile.

Happy that he was going to help Maria hugged him and then the two began to plot.

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

Later that afternoon…

Max walked through the front door of his house and immediately tripped over the wrapping paper and bows that were lying across the floor. He managed to catch himself from falling as he stumbled into the living room where Isabel and Tess sat wrapping presents while chatting cheerfully back and forth. “Jeez did a present blow up or something,” he joked as he walked carefully around the room and sat down in the only unused spot.

Isabel and Tess smiled at the new arrival and continued to work on their wrapping. Max decided to strike up some conversation with the ladies. “So Tess, how are you enjoying your first real Christmas?”

Tess looked at Max as she spoke. “Actually I’m enjoying it a lot. It really is a great holiday I can’t believe I never celebrated it before.” She smiled at Max and then finished with her last present. “Ok that should do it for me so I think I will clean up the mess we have made,” she said cheerfully as she grabbed trashed and left the room.

Isabel turned to Max with a glare. “So I didn’t see you bring in a Christmas Tree,” she told him as she pinned him down with an icy glare as Max squirmed under her glaze.

“I’ll go get it later but right now I have something important to ask Tess.” He hoped that Isabel wouldn’t go nuts on him. ‘It’s not like I forgot to buy presents or anything like that.’

“Ask me what,” Tess asked as she waltzed back into the living room.

“Well I wanted to know if you could help me with something later tonight.” Max side stepped the actual question, not really sure how Tess or his sister would take to his plan.

Isabel and Tess looked at each other before turning their attention back to Max. “And what do you need help with,” Isabel asked curiosity getting the better of her.

Max sighed as he was not really sure how exactly to ask Tess so he decided to just say it and hope they take it well. “I need your help to cover my tracks when I cure Brody’s daughter of cancer.” He looked between the two girls who were both looking back at him with looks of shock.

“Max you can’t be serious?” Isabel exclaimed as she glared at her dear brother. “There is too much risk involved to even think about something like that!” By now she was pacing in front of Max.

Tess watched as Isabel continued to lecture Max and decided to voice her decision. “Ok…” she said in a low voice, so low that Isabel wasn’t quite sure she heard her right.

“Did you just agree to help him?!”

Tess nodded her confirmation causing Isabel to throw her hands up in the air.

“Is everybody insane,” she asked herself with a sigh she sat down on the couch. She turned her attention back to Max. “Is there any way I can talk you out of this?”

Max shook his head which caused Isabel to sigh again. “You know Michael isn’t going to be happy about this but if you’re going do it I might as well help.” She leaned back in her seat lightly shaking her head.

Max smiled at Isabel happy that she was going to help him although he was still having doubts if he could even cure Sydney at all. He also wondered why Tess agreed so quickly, out of everybody that would be affected by this he assumed Tess would be the hardest to convince. He decided not to tempt fate and ask her, instead he changed the subject. “That’s a lot of presents you guys got there.” He nodded to the group of presents that were sitting on the table all wrapped to perfection. He grinned towards Isabel. “One of those wouldn’t happen to be my present now would it?”

Isabel smiled sweetly at Max. “Maybe but you aren’t going to know unless we have a tree to put them under.”

Max let out a laugh as he stood up. “Fine I will go get it right now, and its going to be the best tree ever!”

Isabel let him walk for a few seconds before commenting. “That’s what you said about that pathetic shrub you got last year!” Max simply shook his head as he walked out the door.

Isabel laughed and turned to Tess. “So do you think Kyle will like the present you got him,” she asked as she leaned back in her seat and put her hands behind her head.

Tess smiled at Isabel’s curiosity. “I hope he does,” she replied vaguely. She had decided not to let Isabel know what she got him and that fact was frustrating Isabel. Isabel threw her hands up in the air and rose from her seat.

“Fine! Don’t tell me.” She grabbed her jacket and started to put it on. “I’m starving lets go get something to eat.” Tess nodded her head and followed Isabel. As they walked to the car Isabel decided to start conversation. “What do you think Kyle got you?” They got into the SUV before Tess replied.

“I don’t know but what ever it is I will love it.” She smiled at Isabel and turned the ignition. “So where to next, boss?”

Isabel thought for a few seconds before replying. “Let’s head to the Crashdown.” Tess nodded and started driving to their destination.

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

Michael and Kyle sat around his apartment which looked a lot like the Evan’s living room had, except the presents were not as neatly wrapped. The room was silent as they reflected on the two reflected on their day. It has been unanimously decided that they would never shop ever again. Michael sat straight up in his seat as a thought entered his mind, he jumped from his seat and walked quickly to his refrigerator and opened it. Kyle watched his with minimal curiosity as he downed his Snapple. Michael returned to his seat with a box of Pizza. He opened it up and Kyle could see that there was still about half left and that’s when he noticed his stomach growling. “Hey can I have some,” he asked as he nudged closer to the food.

Michael waved his hand over the pizza instantly making it hot. “Sure help yourself,” Michael told him before he started stuffing his face with a slice. Michael looked up and noticed Kyle staring at him oddly. Whaa…,” Michael asked with his mouth full.

Kyle started to chuckle. “Nothing man.” Kyle started to eat his pizza which he was surprised at after having witnessing Michael eat. As Kyle ate his pizza he turned his thoughts to the enigma that was Tess. She always managed to make his stomach do a little flip with just a smile or a toss of her hair. When he first found out about her otherworldly origins he didn’t trust her then soon after he found her living in his house. That faithful day the day when Nacedo had died was one of sorrow for Tess for the one person she had grown up with had died. For Kyle that was the best day of his life, the day that Tess was thrust into his life. He took another bite of pizza and looked over to see Michael grinning at him. “What,” e asked as he continued to eat his pizza.

Michael continued to smirk at Kyle. “Nothing…you just had that look on your face,” he vaguely answered and inhaled another slice of pizza.

Kyle frowned. “What look?” He put his food down and centered his attention of Michael.

He shrugged and he picked up his last piece of pizza. “You know the same look that Max gets on his face…just a little more toned down.” He ate his last piece and sat back in his seat. He sighed and turned to Kyle. “I can’t believe Isabel talked me into shopping, but I think it’s going to be for the better well with Maria anyways.”

Kyle nodded his agreement as he looked over to the wrapped presents. “I hope so. I really hope Tess likes the presents I got her.”

“Don’t worry about it man, I’m sure she will love them. Besides it’s the thought that matters right,” he asked as he started to clean up the extra wrapping paper around his apartment.

“That’s what they say man,” Kyle replied and joined in on the clean up. “Hey out of curiosity, why don’t you have a Christmas Tree,” he asked as he looked around the spare apartment. “I thought that Isabel would have made you decorate or something,” He told Michael with a smirk.

“Oh you spoke too soon my friend.” He walked over to a box that sat beside the TV and opened it. He reached in and lifted out a few boxed of Christmas lights and decorations. Michael looked over as Kyle chuckled. “Now its time I went to go get the tree. Want to come,” he asked as he made his way to the door.

“Sure,” Kyle told him as he grabbed his jacket and followed Michael out the door.

“At least I don’t have a diagram like Max does,” Michael said as he walked outside and Kyle laughed as he shut the door behind him. “Figures….”

[Biged]

A/N: well here is the end and i would like to thank everybody who is reading my story as well as the people who helped me with the little facts and such

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
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Part 3

Max once again found himself wandering about the tree lot searching for the immaculate Christmas tree to appease his sister. The picking were slim he thought, waiting until Christmas Eve was probably a wrong move…in hindsight anyways. He referred back to the diagram in his hand and frowned. “This is impossible…”

“What’s impossible?” a voice said causing Max to turn to the source. Michael and Kyle walked up to him and gave him their greeting. “So what’s impossible?” Michael asked again as he studied the diagram in Max’s hands.

“Finding a tree that fits Isabel’s expectations, I’m a dead man” He said dejectedly as she shook his head in defeat. “What are you guys doing here?” He asked temporarily putting off his apparent scavenger hunt.

“We are getting a tree for Michael’s place…” Kyle answered as he surveyed the slim pickings of the lot.

Michael turned his gaze on Max and summed it up in one word. “Isabel…” Max nodded in full understanding.

Max decided now would be a good a time as any to bring up his plan for later tonight, considering it was unlikely that Michael was going to lose his temper in public. “Oh and I thought I should let you know that Isabel and Tess are going to help me when I cure Brody’s daughter tonight.” He turned and started walking away as if he had said nothing at all.

“What?” Michael was confused and not exactly sure he heard Max right. “Did you just say something about Brody’s daughter and healing her?” Max turned slightly and nodded his confirmation as Michael stared at him for a few seconds. He finally shrugged and went around looking at trees.

Max was now the one confused by Michael’s actions, he expected him to be at least somewhat mad. He walked up to Michael. “Well you took that bit of news rather well…why?”

Michael sighed and turned to face Max. “I know you’re not going to do anything stupid and since the girls are on your side it appears as though I have been out voted.” He shrugged again and patted Max on the shoulder. “Now if you want to stay alive long enough to heal Brody’s daughter you better pick out a tree.” He smirked at Max, noticing the momentary flash of fear flash over his features.

Max bolted further into the tree lot much to the amusement of Kyle and Michael. They followed Max down his path of lunacy in search for that perfect tree. Michael walked up to a smaller tree and assessed it. “Hmm not bad…I think this is the one I am gonna get.” He said as Kyle joined him.

Kyle shook his head at the tree. “This isn’t a tree Michael, it’s a shrub…” He picked it up with one hand and shook it and most of the pine needles fell out. He turned back and looked at Michael. “And it appears to be dead…”

Michael sighed as he looked around the lot, seriously doubting he was going to find anything. The cold air nipped at his nose and his breath hung in the air from the bitter chill of the wind. His eyes lit up as they landed on a tree in the corner of the lot like the outcast amongst the trees it sat solitary and lonesome. As Michael approached the tree there was no doubt in his mind that is was the perfect tree, it was full and its color was vibrant. He fell on his knees before it as his hands brushed through the branches and needles.

Kyle walked up beside him and laughed at the site before him. “Dude why are you on your knees?” He asked as he continued to laugh.

He looked up to Kyle his eyes shining with Christmas spirit. “Because it’s the tree man…” He broke off when he noticed that two other people had joined him, Max and a worker of the lot.

“Is this the one you want sir?” The worker asked Max and he put on his gloves. Max nodded and the worker stepped forward and lifted the tree out of Michaels reach.

“Hey!” He exclaimed as they walked away not even bothering to notice Michael was there.

Max turned around and smirked at his best friend. “Sorry man you’re too slow…” And with that Max walked away, Michael’s Christmas spirit crushed under each step he took.

Michael’s mouth hung open as he watched Max walk away, he felt a hand on his shoulder and he looked up into Kyle’s eyes. “Sorry man…” Kyle let out a chuckle. “But you have you admit that was funny.” He was laughing now as he helped Michael to his feet.

Michael started to laugh with him. “Yea it was…I think Maria and Isabel are starting get to me…” He shook his head as he picked a random tree from the lot. “I really need to do something manly right now…” He turned to Kyle with a questioning look.

Kyle thought for a moment before replying. “Well I taped a few football games…” Michael patted him on the shoulder as they made their way to pay for the tree. “Sounds good to me…” Michael said and then they were on their way.

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

Later that night.

Max knocked on the door lightly as he shifted slightly, his nerves starting to get the better of him. Isabel patted him on the arm letting him know that she and Tess were there for him, Michael had decided to stay out of it and play more damage control.. He took a deep breath to calm himself and waited for the door to open, no answer. He knocked again harder this time and was rewarded as he heard shuffling on the other side of the door. It swung open and Brody came into view.

“Max” He said in surprise and noticed the girls behind him. “Hello, come in come in!” he ushered them into his house and closed the door behind them.

Max looked around the living room, it was a homey place very inviting. He noticed a picture sitting on the table on his left, he picked it up and studied it, and the picture was of Brody and a little girl which he assumed to be his daughter. He noticed that Brody was talking and focused on the discussion.

“It really is so great of you all to stop by!” Brody smiled at them as a silence fell over the group. They all looked around at each other hoping, wishing for a topic to discuss. A few more seconded passed and Max decided to act. Max looked at Tess and nodded his head, the plan underway. She closed her eyes and concentrated on her mindwarp. Brody eyes looked distant as if he wasn’t there, it always scared Max the power that Tess had over the mind. ‘Thank god she is on our side.’ He thought to himself as he made his way to the hallway with Isabel following. They got to a door that was covered with kids drawings and decided that it had to be Sydney’s room. Max opened the door slowly and peeked in; the room glowed with the light from a little Hello Kitty night light. Sydney was fast asleep breathing lightly as she dreamed the night away.

They stepped into the room and Isabel stepped up beside the bed of the young child and put her hand on Sydney’s head, a light glow emanated from her palm as she pushed the girl into a deeper state of sleep. She smiled down at the sleeping form and brushed some hair from Sydney’s forehead and turned to Max letting him know it was ok to try to heal her.

Max nodded and stepped up, he closed his eyes and focused on the task at hand. He placed his hand on her chest attempting to make the connection. A flash of light blinded Max’s vision as images ran though his head, he was in. Images of Sydney being pushed on a swing by her father, he received feelings of pure innocence and love that this girl had for everything and in that moment he knew what he was doing was right. He focused his attention on healing the little girl. The power flowed from his body as he repaired her, his eyes never losing focus on her face. Isabel stood back and watched, it always amazed her when Max healed and deep down she wished she could too.

The glow emanating from his palm started to dim as he finished hi ministrations. He stumbled back from the bed, unsteady on his feet causing Isabel to steady him. He turned and looked at her, sweat glistening off his face. He nodded to let her know he was ok and made his way out of the room, Isabel following her unsteady brother closely. They walked into the living room where they found Brody having an imaginary conversation with himself, with the help of Tess. She noticed their entrance as well as Max’s tiredness and became concerned; Isabel nodded to her to let her know that everything went according to plan. She closed her eyes and concentrated on adding the new arrivals position so that Brody would not be confused.

Brody blinked as if coming out of a daze. He looked around confused for a second, he let out a chuckle and blushed slightly. “I’m sorry what was I saying?” he asked as his blush deepened.

Max was the first to respond. “You were saying how much you enjoy working at the UFO center and you are glad you bought it.” He said as he held his breath hoping Brody would buy it.

Brody thought for a second and let out a small laugh. “Yes I really do enjoy working there.”

Max decided now was the perfect time to make their getaway. “Well Brody its been great talking to you but we have some places we need to be…” He trialed off as he motioned to the door.

“Oh right…right” he led them to the door and opened it for them. “Feel free to stop by at any time, I never get enough visitors around here.” He smiled at them as they walked out into the crisp chilly air of the night. They waved to Brody before walking back to their Tess’s SUV.

Max stopped before reaching the car causing Tess and Isabel to look back at him. “What’s wrong?” Isabel asked still concerned about him.

He looked up with a smile. “There is something I need to take care of…” and with that he started walking down the street leaving two confused blondes in his wake. He continued to walk as he collected his thought, he didn’t know what he was doing but he knew it felt right. He turned the corner and headed straight for his goal, the Crashdown.

************************
Michael’s Apartment.

The melody of Christmas music played softly in the background, the atmosphere warm and comfortable, which was something of a surprise to Maria when she first walked into the usually cold apartment. The room was decorated with Christmas tidbits and a tree rested in the corner, its lights glowing softly on and off. A table sat in the center of the room, a romantic dinner placement was upon it. At the table sit Michael and Maria enjoying their fancy meal, complements of Michael’s extraordinary cuisine skills.

Maria looked around at all the decorations and was still amazed that Michael had actually done it all. “I can’t believe you actually decorated.” She said as she looked at Michael with a loving glance.

Michael shrugged as he poured himself some more Sparking Cider, mixed with a little Tabasco sauce of course. “Isabel brought over all the stuff so all I needed to do what just put it up.”

Maria shook her head and chuckled. “Do you ever take a compliment for what it is?” she asked not really expecting an answer. She stood up from her chair. “I am gonna use the restroom.” She smiled at Michael one last time and headed for the bathroom.

Once the door closed Michael stood and let out a deep sigh, he walked to the kitchen and opened one of the cupboards. He pulled out two wrapped presents and placed them on the counter. He smiled to himself and waited for Maria to come back from the bathroom.

She finally emerged from back of the apartment and found Michael standing in the kitchen area, she also noticed the presents sitting on the counter. She smiled as she made her way over to him. “I thought we weren’t getting gifts this year.” She asked once she was standing beside him.

“These aren’t for you they are for Max and Isabel.” Michael decided to play with Maria a little, after all when did he ever really get a chance to play tricks on his eccentric girlfriend without fear of a pain. Michael didn’t regret it either as he watched Maria’s face and decided that it was the perfect Kodak moment. ‘Wish I had a camera…’ he thought to himself but then noticed that Maria looked sad and decided to drop it. “I’m kidding of course they are for you.” He smiled at her and handed her the bigger box first.

Before Maria took the present from Michael she slapped him lightly in the arm. “Never do that again!” She had a hard time keeping a straight face as she mock scolded him. “Now lemme see what you got me.” She said in an excited voice as she started to rip open the present.

Michael watched her as she ripped open the package and held his breath. “Do you like it?” He asked unsure.

She looked at the basket of scented oils and bath beads. “I was actually going to buy one of these for myself.” She said and smiled at him. “Thank you.” She kissed him lightly on the lips.

“I got it for all those times I piss you off…and you can take a nice bath with these and calm down, sooth your nerves.” He smiled at her and hugged her tightly. “and now for the next present.” He let go of her and picked up the smaller present and handed it to her.

She eagerly ripped the present open, the inner child taking over instantly. Once she opened the small box she only let out a gasp as the shock over took her. She looked at Michael still shocked. “Michael this is beautiful…are these real diamonds and pearls?”

He smiled at her and nodded. “Merry Christmas Maria.” He leaned forward and kissed her on the lips.


************************
Valenti Homestead

Kyle lay leisurely on the couch as he flipped through the channels on the TV, trying to find something, anything to take his mind off of Tess. He sighed as he looked at the presents that were sitting on the coffee table in front of him. ‘God I hope she likes them.’ He thought to himself not really paying attention to the back door opening.

Tess walked into the house carrying her own wrapped present and was on her way to her room when she noticed Kyle staring at the TV as if in his own little world. A mischievous smile crossed her face as she decided to have a little fun with him. She noticed that a commercial for some body oil was on the TV with a model in a bikini. She closed her eyes and concentrated.

Kyle watched the TV as he felt as if his mind was in a haze. He blinked his eyes and it seemed to help but he noticed that the TV seemed to be moving. He sat up straight and watched the TV oddly. He jumped back in his seat as a leg crawled out of the screen, and a well toned leg he noticed. The model completely crawled from the TV causing Kyle to blink several times and pinch himself. She approached him, walking seductively. Once she reached him she straddled his lap and ran her fingers through her hair. Kyle grinned at her still not really knowing what was going on but not really caring. She leaned closer to him, her lips beside his ear and she spoke. “Hello baby!” She said to him but not in a female voice but in the distinctive gruffness of Michael’s voice.

Kyle jumped up screaming but the woman was gone he did however notice the giggling Tess in the corner of the room. He glared at her. “That was not nice!” He exclaimed as he sat down, continuing to watch her.

“But it was funny…” She managed to say while giggling as she took a seat beside Kyle. They drifted off into silence neither one not really sure what to say.

Kyle decided to break the uneasy silence. “Did you have fun with Isabel today and how did that thing with Brody go?”

“It went well he didn’t suspect anything and as for Isabel…that girl needs help.” She let out a giggle and was joined by Kyle but he did more of a manly chuckle then a giggle.

Tess noticed the presents on the table and decided to bring them up, even though she already knew who they were for. “Oh whose are those.” She asked in her best innocent voice. She turned and batted her eyelashes at him.

“Those…those are for…well they’re for you.” He stuttered his way around the topic but then he noticed a smile on her face. “Would you like to open them now?” He asked pretty much already knowing her answer.

She nodded her head vigorously and clapped her hands together. Kyle picked up the softer one and handed it to her. She ripped it open quickly, her excitement at its peak. She looked at that silk bed covering in her hand and smiled at Kyle. “Thank you.” She said as she opened them up and felt the soft material.

“Here you go.” He said as he handed her the second present which she opened just as she did the first. She flipped the box open and her mouth dropped. She wasn’t expecting anything so beautiful.

“Oh my god Kyle…I…I don’t know what to say.” Tess was clearly at a loss for words as she stared at the earrings.

“Do you like them?” He asked, once again unsure of himself.

“I love them Kyle thank you.” She leaned forward and gave Kyle a kiss on the cheek, a kiss that lingered longer then a friendly kiss would. She pulled back and lowered her head. Her mind began to work again coming out of its fog. “Oh I forgot I got you a present too.” She exclaimed as she hurried to retrieve the present. She bounded back in into her seat and handed the present to Kyle.

He chuckled at the unique wrapping, Aliens with Santa hats on. He quickly unwrapped that present. He found himself holding a green figure of Buddha. “It’s a Jade Buddha.” Tess said as she watched Kyle reaction closely.

A smile spread across his face, a smile that could light New York City. “Thank you Tess…” he leaned forward and gave her a light kiss on the lips. Tess sat there shocked by what just happened but soon found herself responding to Kyle’s touch.

A subtle cough broke them from their escalating make out session. They both turned their heads towards the origin of the sound and found Jim standing near the doorway with a smile on his face.

“I see you two are enjoying the holiday.” He smiled again as the young couple turned red. He looked at Kyle and he knew that was all that was needed to keep them inline. Kyle nodded his head to his father and Jim walked from the living room leaving them alone.

Tess turned to Kyle once again and smiled. “Thank you for the presents Kyle…” A grin formed on her lips. “And maybe one of these days you can help me break in my new sheets.” She stood and walked slowly towards the hallway, leaving the shocked Kyle sitting there. She looked back over her shoulder. “After all my lamp never got trimmed…”

*************************
Outside the Crashdown

Max stared up towards the balcony, he was standing near the ladder. He knew Liz was there, just as she always was. Images of that night flashed into his mind but he pushed them back. He stepped forward and climbed up the ladder as he tried to clear his mind of images he did not want to see. He reached the top and there she was, sitting with her legs crossed with her journal in her lap. He watched her for a moment admiring her beauty before speaking. “Fancy meeting you here.” He climbed up onto the balcony and approached her. She looked up at him and smiled slightly.

“Hello Max.” Liz said as she closed her journal. “What brings you here on this chilly night?” she asked still a little uncomfortable around him.

“Nothing much just thought I would come and visit since its Christmas Eve and all…”He trailed off not really having a reason but just wanting to see her.

She nodded. “Maria told me what you were going to do tonight…did it go well?”

“It went perfectly actually Tess managed to keep Brody from noticing any thing at all.” He noticed Liz shift at the mention of Tess’s name and knew what was coming.

“Look Max I think I am gonna go inside and try to go to sleep so I can get up early tomorrow…so I will talk to you in the morning.” With that she stood up and made her way to her window. A hand on her shoulder stopped her from going any farther then that. She turned around and Max was inches away from her face. He nodded his head up as he eyes followed. She looked up and noticed that a mistletoe and magically appeared above them. She looked back at Max, her breathing becoming quicker.

He leaned forward and kissed her full on the lips causing her to moan. She lifted her arms and wrapped them around his neck and deepened the kiss and then the flashes started.

Max was shocked at the flashes; the main ones to shock him were the ones of him but not him. He pulled away from Liz and looked into her eyes as tears started to form in them. “Max I…” He placed a finger on her lips and whispered to her. “Later…” he replaced his finger with his mouth. Liz responded and soon they were in the middle of a passionate kiss.

Ten minutes later they broke the kiss and Liz noticed that she has some how managed to work her way into his lap, not that she really cared how she had gotten there.She looked into his eyes and smiled for tonight nothing mattered only that he was there.

“Merry Chirstmas Max.” she kissed him lightly on the lips once again.

“Merry Christmas Liz.” Came his reply as he deepened the kiss…


**************************
Isabel’s room


The room was quiet and still as Isabel lay upon her bed and browsed through a magazine. The day had taken a toll on her as she spent most of it preparing for the festivities tomorrow. If it wasn’t for her then the Christmas pageant would probably have been unorganized, or so she thought. Every year she took it upon herself to make sure that everybody had the perfect Christmas, earning herself the title of ‘Christmas Nazi’. Something was off this year though, one detail didn’t go according to her plans, Alex was in Sweden. She spent the better part of the last few months thwarting his advances, which she was finding increasingly more complicated where her feeling were concerned. She didn’t dislike Alex in fact it was the opposite but she couldn’t be with him she couldn’t her life was far too complicated to have a steady boyfriend. Lately her mind had been wondering to him, the saying “Absence makes the heart grow fonder” all too true.

Isabel threw the magazine across the room and let out a long sigh. No matter what she did she couldn’t stop thinking about him. She sat up on her bed and looked around her room, her eyes falling on a book but not just any book, the book Alex had given her from what seems like a lifetime ago. She walked over to her book shelf and took it down and ran her fingers lightly over the cover. Her mind flashed to day he gave it to her and how bad she treated him. She remembered the look on his face, the look that broke her heart. She wanted to run after him and tell him that she needed him even though she only knew him, truly knew him, for a short time. She didn’t though she was too scared to show her true self to him, scared that he would reject her.

Another book caught her eye, her yearbook. She laid the stargazing book down carefully and picked up the yearbook. She returned to her bed and opened the book, opened the book to the page that she spent hours staring at. She ran her fingers over his picture, she had other pictures of Alex but this was by far her favorite, it was the picture she used when she first dreamwalked him. A smile appeared on her lips and she remembered that faithful night, the night that changed her life forever. She was amazed at how observant Alex really was how he saw through her icy exterior and saw her, really saw her. She looked so beautiful in his dreams, not just her physical beauty though, her inner beauty radiated from his dream version of her.

As she stared at the picture a thought entered her mind. ‘Why not dreamwalk Alex and give him a little Christmas present?’ A mischievous grin formed on her lips as various naughty things entered her mind. ‘But would it be an invasion of privacy? Am I just going to string him along again?’ Her doubts resurfaced. ‘Does he even like me anymore? Would he say no to me?’ She shook her head and stared back down at Alex’s picture. ‘I need him, I need him more then anything.’ Her decision was made. She looked at the clock. ‘Nine P.M. and Sweden is seven hours ahead so he should be sleeping.’

“Alex Whitman you better be ready for me because here I come!” She said out loud as she touched her finger to his picture. Power rippled through the paper of the book, the connection was formed.

*Dreamscape*

Isabel looked around at the settings of the dream and she recognized it as Alex’s room. Memories of her summer with Alex flashed in her mind and the feeling of how happy and content she was. A noise knocked her out of her memories as Alex walked into the room. She watched him as he sat down on his bed but something was wrong with him, he was crying.

The dream shifted and Isabel found herself at the Crashdown. She spotted Alex in the corner booth and decided to sit on the other site and watch the dream unfold. As she sat down on one of the stools she noticed that Alex was watching something and she followed his gaze. She saw herself, her dream self, sitting at a booth with Grant. Isabel frowned, why was Grant in Alex’s dream she asked herself. She looked back at Alex and noticed that sad look on his face. The dream shifted again and she found herself once again in Alex’s but this time her dream self was there with Alex. They were talking and she listened intently.

“Alex how many times do I have to tell you? We can never be together, why can’t you understand that?” Dream Isabel said is a cold tone that made Isabel cringe.

“Why can you be with Grant but not me?” Alex asked in a desperate voice.

Dream Isabel sighed and shook her head. “I like Grant that’s why and you’re nothing but a geek.” Once again Isabel found herself cringing at what her dream self was saying. ‘He couldn’t really think that could he? He couldn’t possibly think that I liked Grant more then him?’ She watched as her dream self walked out of Alex’s room, she noticed the hurt look on his face and her heart broke. ‘I can’t let him continue to think this.’ She waved her hand and the dream changed. The sudden change forced Alex to become aware he was dreaming. He looked around and noticed that he was in Frasier woods, at the stargazing rock. He noticed Isabel staring at him.

“Isabel….?” He asked confused, one minute he was having what he considered to be the worse nightmare ever and then he was here.

She walked over to the rock and sat down. She looked up and Alex and patted the space beside her. Alex walked forward and sat down next to her still confused slightly. They sat silently as they looked up at that the stars. Isabel was the first to break the silence. “Alex, I just want to start by apologizing for invading your privacy.” Alex watched Isabel intently but the only thing on his mind was that she was here, in his dreams she had to care about him…didn’t she? He noticed that she was still talking and decided it would be best to think things through later.

“…and I would just like to say I am sorry for the way I have treated you, the one person I care for the most.” Isabel looked into Alex’s eyes as she took his hand in hers.

Alex smiled at Isabel as he stared back into her brown eyes. “I met somebody here in Sweden, her name is Leanna…” Isabel sat there shocked. ‘He met somebody!’ her mind screamed as she started to form ways of escape in her mind.

Alex noticed that look on her face and decided to hurry up his story. “We went on a date…but as I looked at her I could not help but compare her to you…and I seriously found her wanting in all departments.” He noticed the shinning glint of hope in her eyes. “Well Isabel you’re just going to have to face it, you ruined me for all women…I hope you’re happy.” He joked as Isabel smiled at him and he decided to push it even further. He leaned forward and kissed her tentatively on the lips. He pulled back and looked into her eyes and sought the permission he needed to continue.

She nodded to him and leaned in just as he did, their lips met again but with more passion then the previous time. They took their time re-exploring each others mouths, the kiss so familiar yet at the same time new and exciting. The kiss deepened as her tongue slipped into his mouth, gently massaging his, his taste intoxicating to Isabel. She pulled back a little giving Alex the opportunity to take control. He sucked her bottom lip into his mouth and sucked on it softly, slowly nibbling.

They pulled back from each other, both attempting to catch their breaths. A wicked grin appeared on her face as soon Alex found the dream changing yet again. He realized that they were in his room again but Isabel wasn’t with him on the bed. ‘Where did she go?’ he asked himself but soon had his answer when the door swung open and there she stood with only a ribbon across her breasts and a bow covering ‘other’ places. His jaw dropped as she slowly walked over to him, words escaping him as he stared at her openly.

She stood beside the bed looking down at Alex with a sexy grin upon her face. “I think its time to unwrap your present Alex.” She told him in a husky voice as she presented herself for unwrapping…

****************************
Epilogue –

The group sat around the Crashdown on Christmas, chatting back and forth. The atmosphere was light and fun as they all accounted funny tales of past adventures.

“I wish Alex was here he would have great stories to tell.” Maria said forlornly from her position in Michael’s arms.

A slight blush appeared on Isabel’s cheeks which did not go unnoticed by Max. “Something you wanna tell us Iz?” he asked with a mischievous grin, his arm around Liz’s shoulder.

Isabel’s blush deepened as the group put their attention on her. “Um…well um…I dreamwalked Alex last night…” She trailed off as she continued to blush.

“How is he…is he having fun?” Maria asked trying to get any information about her friend out of the tall alien princess.

“He said he is having fun and he misses you all…” Isabel smiled at the group as they fell in to a comfortable silence all their worries whisked away on this magical holiday that had brought them all together again, even the ones not close to home. It was indeed a wonderful Roswell Christmas.


THE END