Trapped in Yourself, AU,ML,TEEN-MATURE, Ch 17 4/13/05 [WIP]

[IluvMaxEvans]

Disclaimer: I own nothing…nada...zip…
Author’s Note: Sorry it took so long! I was totally writer’s blocked all winter break…and I am still fuming over the recent news that Roswell has been taken off of Sci-Fi’s lineup!!! I am a newer viewer, and haven’t seen much of the 2nd season…


Chapter 10: Traitors


“Liz…Liz, wake up,” Max said, nudging a sleeping Liz when he woke up.

“What time is it?” she mumbled, burying her face in his bare chest.

“1:00 in the afternoon,” Max replied, stroking her hair.

“Why hasn’t your father tried to get me yet?” Elizabeth asked, sitting up and noticing that her dress was severely wrinkled from being slept in.

“Don’t know. Why don’t we go find out?” Max asked, pulling out a clean tunic and slipping it on.

“Fine by me,” Elizabeth replied, combing her hair and quickly putting it in a braid, then pinning it up.

Max put her arm protectively around her waist and led her to his father’s study.

He was waiting for tem in his chair, staring at the wall as if in a daze with a glass of gin in his hand, twirling it around slowly.

“Explain yourselves,” he demanded simply.

“Father, we love each other,” Max simply replied to his father.

“Love? Bullshit! She’s leaving with me now. And if EITHER of you pull another stunt, you’ll have consequences to pay,” Maximillion said, standing up, done with being courteous, and gently grabbing Elizabeth’s arm, dragging her to the carriage with him. She looked desperately to Max, and right before she disappeared from his sight she mouthed, “I love you. One a.m. tomorrow.”

Maximillion put her firmly in the carriage and locked her door from the outside before going to his side and getting in.

Elizabeth saw her home loom ahead in the distance and she looked out the window, determined not to cry anymore. It was already bad enough that she wouldn’t see Max until tomorrow night.

The carriage finally stopped and the doorman opened her door and led her inside.

There they were. Jeffrey Barrington III, her father, and Nancy Barrington, his wife…her mother.

“Elizabeth,” her mother said, opening her arms and walking forward, misty eyed. Elizabeth smiled. In spite of herself she was happy that she finally had a real family.

She hugged her mother tightly and then her father.

“I should’ve known the night of the ball,” he mumbled, framing her face with his hands, and then kissing her forehead.

“Thank you Max, for finding her and returning our Liz safely back to us,” Jeffrey said, shaking Maximillion’s hand.

“I will walk you to your room dear, and on the way you must tell me of all your favorite things, and anything else you wish for me to know,” Nancy said, taking Elizabeth’s and gently and leading her to a room on the 2nd floor, overlooking the harbor…with a balcony.

“Thank you…mum,” Elizabeth said, her stomach feeling uneasy when calling this woman whom she barely knew mum, a title owned by Anna rightfully for so long.

“It is nothing. Tomorrow afternoon we have arranged for you to go out on a…date with Lord Kyle,” Nancy said. Elizabeth froze in her tracks.

“Why?” she demanded, whirling around to face her mother.

“Don’t you know? You are betrothed. The wedding is set in 9 months, for early October. We will announce this all at the New Years ball, in 2 days,” Nancy said, smiling.

Elizabeth’s mouth gaped open, but then she quickly closed it. She’d play along with this game for now. Even though these people were her own flesh and blood, whom she was supposed to love…she felt no connection towards them…not like her feelings for Anna had been…still were.

“Ok,” Elizabeth said, pasting a fake smile on her face.

“Why don’t you become accustomed to this place for a while. Supper is at 6:00 sharp,” Nancy said, giving a warm smile.

“Thank you,” Elizabeth said as Nancy exited the room. Elizabeth waited a moment in silence until rushing out to her balcony and helping Max up.

“What are you doing here?!? You fool! It’s broad daylight!” Elizabeth exclaimed, though her face wasn’t angry, it was actually amused.

“I needed to do this,” Max said taking her in his arms and dipping her into a romantic kiss. Elizabeth came up with a flushed face.

“Wow,” she said simply, “you’re lucky my mum…Nancy…didn’t see you peeking over the edge…did you hear what we said?”
Max’s smiling face turned stony and he walked her inside.

“Yes. You are going to out with Kyle tomorrow, and are marrying him in early October,” Max replied. Elizabeth looked shamefully down at her feet.

“No…don’t be ashamed, it’s out of your reach Liz,” Max said, reaching out and lifting her chin.

“Thank you for understanding Max…I…” Elizabeth started to say.

“Lady Elizabeth, your mother wishes…” A lady said, walking into the room, a shocked look sweeping over her face immediately.

“Oh please don’t tell…?” Elizabeth said desperately rushing over to the woman and clasping her hands together.

“Annabelle, your new governess. First things first,” she said, eyebrows raised at Max and Elizabeth before turning around and firmly shutting the door, “now...who is he?”

“Well, this is Lord Maximillion Bartholomew Evans II,” Elizabeth said, referring to Max.

“I don’t see the need to be secretive,” Annabelle said thoughtfully, hand on cheek.

“Oh, but there is one. I am surprised you do not know already…I am betrothed to Lord Kyle Valenti,” Elizabeth replied, her voice dripping with disgust.

“My Lady, why are you not pleased? Lord Kyle is very well endowed in more than one area I’ve heard,” Annabelle said, winking at Elizabeth, causing her to blush furiously.

“The problem is…my hand may belong to Kyle, but my heart will forever belong to Max,” Elizabeth said, reaching out and taking his hand in hers, “I am trusting you with this secret, can I trust you to keep it?”

“Yes, you can trust me with anything and I will take it to my grave my Lady,” Annabelle replied, smiling down on the couple.

“Please…its Liz,” Elizabeth said to her, “now, starting tomorrow Max will be coming to my balcony at one a.m. every other night.”

“I will help as much as possible. Young love…so sweet…so innocent. But I must warn you, your outing with the Lord, I can’t help you there, it’s your parents’ will, and only they can cancel,” Annabelle sighed. Elizabeth nodded her head and looked up to Max, who gave her a small smile in return. This small exchange of love touched Annabelle deep down inside as she remembered her own first love, “I will give you 5 minutes alone, and then I must prepare you for supper.”

“Thank you Annabelle,” Max said, startling Annabelle slightly. Elizabeth was a lucky girl, a handsome man with a beautiful voice and heart, who loved her unconditionally.

She nodded and exited the room quickly.

“Can we trust her?” Max asked, turning Elizabeth around and cupping her face in his hands.

“I believe so. She seems genuine enough,” Liz replied, leaning up and receiving the kiss that Max was about to give her.

They savored the sweet kiss before Max pulled her in a tight embrace.

“I will miss you love,” Max whispered, smoothing her hair down. Against her will, bitter tears started to form in her chocolate eyes.

“I will miss you more. Be careful around Tess. I sweat, if she touches you…I’ll kill her in cold blood,” Elizabeth whispered, grasping Max tighter, afraid he’d disappear is she let go.

“I can’t let you do that, it would ruin your life,” Max said, pulling back and wiping her tears away with his thumb.

“Just…b…be careful,” Elizabeth said.
“As long as you make sure Kyle keeps his hands to himself,” Liz smiled at him and kissed him.

“I will, YOU need to watch Tess, I’m more worried about her,” Liz replied, placing her hand on his chest in exasperation.

This affected Max more than Elizabeth thought it could. This, combined with their bodies so close and her gazing lovingly into his eyes, was wreaking havoc on his groin.

Elizabeth noticed a glazed look passing over his eyes and looked down, her head snapping up with a VERY red face.

“Y...you might want to go now,” Liz whispered, her color still rising.

“Probably,” Max nodded quickly, running to the balcony and blowing her a kiss before going down the ladder.

“Thank you Annabelle, your service will be greatly rewarded,” Tess said, handing Annabelle a bag of gold.

As Annabelle disappeared back into Elizabeth’s room Tess grinned evilly, processing the information just bestowed upon her.

Every other night at one a.m. She’d let them enjoy it for a night or so before she dropped the bomb.

[IluvMaxEvans]

Disclaimer: I don’t own any of the awesome characters….that al belongs to Jason Katims and co.
Author’s Note: Thanks for all the feedback! This chapter is…long, lol, so, hope you like


Chapter 11: Of Kyle and Max


“Lord Kyle,” Elizabeth greeted, curtsying before Kyle. He bowed and kissed her hand.

“You are lovelier than a spring rose,” Kyle said, smiling at her before putting his hand on the small of her back and leading her out towards the sleigh, “how does an afternoon ice skating, followed by and indoor picnic sound?”

“Lovely!” Elizabeth said, trying her best to sound enthusiastic.
Kyle smiled sincerely at her and helped tuck her in before tucking himself in and driving off.

“Maybe this won’t be so bad after all,” Elizabeth silently thought as they made their way to a nearby frozen lake, “maybe I can learn to love him and end this mess! No! Why do I think that way? Love anyone but Max? Never!”

“Elizabeth? Elizabeth!” Kyle exclaimed. Elizabeth blinked and noticed they had stopped, and then she noticed Kyle holding out to help her up.
She smiled guiltily and took his hand, allowing him to help her up.

“Here are your skates,” Kyle said, holding out a pair of fur-lined ice skates.

Elizabeth took them and sat down on a log, placing them on her feet as butterflies flew madly around her stomach this was her first time ice skating.

“Nervous?” Kyle asked, standing up firmly in his skates.

“Just a tad bit…ok I’m bloody scared out of my mind!” Elizabeth exclaimed, flushing red after saying that. Kyle let out a laugh and helped her to stand up, once up she immediately clung to him as her knees gave way underneath her.

She giggled nervously before attempting to stand again.
Max watched from the trees as Elizabeth fell into Kyle’s arms and jealousy flared within him. It wasn’t that he didn’t trust Elizabeth, he just didn’t’ trust Kyle.

Tess had canceled their date, much to Max’s relief, leaving his afternoon free.

He was about to step out and demand Kyle get his hands off her, but she did this herself, and Max saw her attempt to stand again, succeeding, and slowly waking towards the ice. Max smiled, she always was a fast learner.

Liz stepped tentatively out onto the ice as Kyle all but jumped on and did a few twirls, clearly showing off.

“Take my hand!” Kyle said, holding a gloved hand out for her to take.
She reached out and took his hand and he moved his other hand to take hers and then moved his hands securely to her wrists.

“Glide your feet, I won’t let go until you are 100% ready,” Kyle said softly. No matter what Tess, his cousin, thought about Elizabeth, he cared about her, and could feel her slowly warming up to him.

“Don’t let go!” Elizabeth squealed as he skated fast around the pond.
“I won’t!” Kyle exclaimed, laughing. He slowed to a stop, “I’m going to let you go now, just try a few steps.”

Elizabeth nodded and her arms went out to balance herself after he let go. She took a deep breath and slid forward. After a few hesitant steps she grew bolder and stepped it up a notch.

“I’m doing it!” she exclaimed, laughing joyously.

Max looked to the ground, ashamed of feeling jealousy towards Kyle. If Elizabeth said she loved him, Max, she meant it. Max gazed at the happy Elizabeth one last time before leaving.

By the end of the hour Elizabeth was almost as good at Kyle at ice skating.

“I’m exhausted…ready for the picnic?” Kyle asked, sitting down on a log and taking his skates off.

“I am more than ready!” Elizabeth exclaimed, plopping herself down next to him. He put his shoes on and smiled at Elizabeth. She was so beautiful and pure.

Elizabeth placed her last shoe on and looked at Kyle, who was staring deeply at her.

“Maybe I’ll just take a peek…” Max said, turning around and heading back, he wanted to make sure she was alright.

Kyle reached out and placed his hand on her silky cheek, taking all of her in.

Elizabeth’s heart fluttered at his touch. Why? She loved Max…! Natural instincts took control of her and she leaned in as his face started to move in as well.

Their lips touched together and formed a sweet kiss. Kyle took it a step further and added more pressure to it, taking Elizabeth by surprise and making her gasp. She felt his tongue slip in her mouth and explore it.

Max gaped at them. Elizabeth was kissing Kyle, it wasn’t’ a simple peck on the lips either. How could she? She wasn’t even TRYING to pull back! He was both hurt beyond belief and extremely angry at the same time.

With one final glance, just to make sure he wasn’t imagining it, he wasn’t’, he left.

Elizabeth pulled back, appalled and smacked Kyle’s face.

“Did I grant you permission to molest me so?” Elizabeth demanded, standing up, outraged.

“I thought you wanted this,” Kyle replied, standing up as well.

“No, you DIDN’T think!!! I barely know you, and I was actually starting to LIKE you! You just ruined it all!” Elizabeth exclaimed, clear that she was overstepping her boundaries.

Something flickered in Kyle’s eyes that Elizabeth didn’t’ recognize.

“We’re leaving, forget about the picnic, forget about everything,” he coldly said, stomping off towards the sleigh.

Elizabeth trudged over and got in, sitting as far away from Kyle as possible, tucking herself in.

They pulled up in front of her house, and Elizabeth walked briskly in, followed closely by Kyle.

“Darling! My Lord! Back so soon?” Nancy asked, smiling and then noticing the tension between them.

“I can’t marry your daughter. I am canceling the betrothal. My father will take care of the details,” Kyle said.

“Oh my…well, so be it. Good bye my Lord,” Nancy said, mouth slightly agape.

Kyle bowed his head before turning and leaving.

“Liz…what happened?” Nancy asked, standing up to see Elizabeth eye to eye.

“It’s complicating,” Elizabeth said, dismissing it from her mind.

Glancing at the clock, it read 4:00. 9 hours to go.

“You know what this means? We must find you another suitor,” Nancy said.

“W…who do you have in mind?” Elizabeth asked, eyes widening.

“Well, there is Maria Deluca’s cousin, Sean Deluca, he is 20, and then there is Maximillion Evans I, 18 I believe, but he is betrothed, though not engaged. I, personally, do not like the DeLuca gentleman, too many rumors spreading around about him,” Nancy said to Elizabeth’s delight, “I will discuss the matter with your father and we will talk to both of them at the ball tomorrow night.”

“Ok, I am going to change, and then I will be down for supper,” Elizabeth said, supper was at 4:30 on Sundays. Walking to her room, Annabelle helped her change her dress.

“How did it go?” Annabelle asked. She felt like dirt. Elizabeth did nothing to deserve this, and the only reason she was betraying her was because she had a family at home to feed. Not her won kids, this wasn’t allowed in a governess’ position; they were her sibling left orphaned when her parents died.

“I don’t want to talk about it,” Elizabeth said, walking abruptly out.

Midnight.

12:30.

One a.m.

Elizabeth paced around her room, her silk nightie covered with a long, crimson silk robe.

One fifteen. Where was he? She walked out to her balcony and looked over, screaming as a hand covered her mouth from behind.

She struggled for a moment but the person wouldn’t budge, so she stilled her actions.

“About time,” Max murmured, taking his hand off her mouth and releasing his grip. Elizabeth spun around and smacked Max fiercely.

“Bastard! What the hell was that about?” Elizabeth exclaimed in a hushed voice.

“I saw you kissing you fiancé,” Max growled, staring her in the eyes.

“Correction, he is no longer my fiancé. But I want to know why the hell you were spying on me, and why you just scared the bloody hell out of me?” Elizabeth demanded, pushing him impatiently inside and closing her doors behind her.

“One, I was worried about you. Two, I am VERY angry and confused right now,” Max said, crossing his arms in front of himself.

“You had no need to be worried, or angry, or confused, if you had ever spied on me, but since you did, if you had stuck around 2 minutes longer, you would have seen me smack him, and yell his bloody brains out,” Elizabeth said with a sting to her voice.

Max looked to the ground briefly before looking up at her. When his gaze met her cold one, he turned around and quickly opened the balcony door and walked out, quickly descending down the ladder that was placed there.

Elizabeth sunk to the ground, sobbing in her palms.

1:30 rolled around to 2:30, and eventually Elizabeth weakly hoisted herself up and onto her bed.

~The Night of the Ball~

“Hold still Liz!” Annabelle instructed with a laugh when they were trying to get Elizabeth in a corset.

“It’s so…tight!” she exclaimed, suddenly out of breath as Annabelle tightly tied the strings.

Elizabeth looked at her appearance in the mirror and sighed. Her long brown hair was curled gracefully and fell right below here bosom. Glitter was streaked across her eyes and her lips were a lustrous crimson to match her burgundy gown.

“Now, let’s slip you into your gown,” Annabelle said, taking the deep burgundy silk folds out of a box.

The dress hugged her every curve until it reached her hips, where it’s folds flared out. The top clung onto the very edges of her shoulders and formed a very low V in the front, which Elizabeth was very insecure about.

Annabelle came around with a velvet box and opened it, showing a garnet necklace that would also be worn.

“And here, to finish this all up,” Annabelle said after slipping burgundy jeweled heeled slippers on her feet, “a gift from someone, your mother would not specify who, all she said was that there was a possibility he was to be your betrothed.” She opened a smaller box, showing off two sapphire and garnet hair combs, which Annabelle placed on either side of her head.

“They are lovely! Oh, thank you for being such a friend Annabelle. Isabel has not been able to visit, but you make up for the loss of her,” Elizabeth said, quickly hugging Annabelle, who wanted to kill herself for deceiving this sweet, innocent girl.

“My Lady, it is time,” A butler said, stepping in the room. Elizabeth broke from her embrace and, smiling at Annabelle, left behind the butler.

“Announcing, Lady Elizabeth Barrington!” An announcer said loudly from the other side of the door as two servants grandly opened the doors for her. She smiled as applause broke out and walked down the stairs, met by her mother.

“Many young Lords wish to take your hand in marriage, but Lord Deluca and Lord Evans are whom your father and I have narrowed it down to,” Nancy said, delicately leading Elizabeth to a group of males, “you have never met Lord Deluca, but you have obviously met the young Lord Evans.”

“Ah! Here they are! Max, Sean, My beautiful wife, Lady Nancy, and absolutely STUNNING daughter, Elizabeth,” Jeffrey said, sweeping his hand out in introduction.

Elizabeth curtsied, noticing Sean’s’ eyes on her, it was making her uncomfortable.

Max gazed at her as he bowed, noticing that she was wearing the combs he had sent. His father informed him of the possible betrothal, and Max, wanting to make up for their fight, suggested sending a gift, surprisingly it matched perfectly.

Maximillion had cancelled the betrothal to Tess, hoping he hadn’t screwed up, for if Elizabeth’s parents chose Sean, he was in trouble.

“Would you dance with me?” Max asked, stepping in front of Sean, his eyes begging for her to accept. Elizabeth nodded and took his hand as he led her out, rather dancing with him, no matter how mad she was at him, than Sean, even though he was Maria’s cousin, she didn’t like the way his eyes groped her.

“I’m sorry,” he whispered as they danced.

“It’s ok. I am sorry to,” Elizabeth whispered back. Max reached a hand up and touched a comb.

“You liked my gift, I ‘m glad you did,” Max said, then moving his hand to twine her fingers with his, then kissing the bare fingers thinking about the things he could out on them.

“Of course I liked them, they are lovely, thank you,” Elizabeth said, and at this moment, she forgave him.

[IluvMaxEvans]

Disclaimer: I don't own any of these characters
Author’s Note: Thanks for all the Feedback, here is chapter 12


Chapter 12: Betrothal and Betrayal


The song finished and Max led Elizabeth back to the little group.

“Liz!” Isabel exclaimed walking quickly over to her and giving her a warm embrace.

“Bell! I haven’t seen you in so long! How have you been?” Elizabeth asked as she walked around the room with Isabel.

“You must stay over!” Isabel said, “You absolutely must! I will ask my father if you can stay a week.”

“That would be delightful!” Elizabeth replied; face lighting up as they eagerly walked to their separate parents.

“Mum, Isabel requests that I stay the week at her house,” Elizabeth said, politely interrupting her conversation with Max.

“As long as the Lord obliges, so do I. I wish for you to be happy,” Nancy said, smiling.

“What has your father said?” Elizabeth asked eagerly as Isabel approached. Elizabeth also noted that Max’s face had some eagerness on it as well.

“He said not this time,” Isabel said, pouting.

“Oh dear, I am sorry Liz,” Nancy said, putting a hand on her shoulder, “but I have something that might help brighten your face. We have accepted an offer…”

“Who?” Elizabeth demanded, eyes widening and passing from Sean, whose eyes were groping her, to Max, whose eyes purely showed love.

“…Lord Evans!” Nancy exclaimed like a giddy school girl, and taking Max’s hand, joining it with Elizabeth’s, “there is no engagement as of yet, so if Lord Evans finds it necessary to cancel this betrothal for any reason, he may do so, and in that act, Lord Deluca will step in.”

Elizabeth gave Max a shy smile before averting her attention to her father.

“We have arranged an outing, tomorrow, for you two to go to London, and picnic there after seeing a play in the theatre,” Jeffrey stated.
With that being said, Max led Elizabeth out for another dance.

“Did you know? About the betrothal and everything?” Elizabeth asked incredulously.

“I knew of this 10 minutes after I arrived,” Max responded, “I want to talk to you…but not here.”

“Follow me,” Elizabeth whispered, guiding Max in the dance towards the servants’ door. They slipped out unseen and Elizabeth led Max to her room.

“Here is what you’re going to do next…” Elizabeth and Max froze. That was Tess’ voice…in Elizabeth’s room.

“Yes Lady Tess,” Annabelle’s voice said in reply. Elizabeth heard the chink of gold.

That bitch! She was betraying her! Elizabeth looked, her face hurt and shocked, at Max, who looked just as bewildered.

Max took Elizabeth’s hand and they quickly walked to a garden downstairs and outside.

“That…that…argh!!! We trusted her with some of out biggest secrets!” Elizabeth exclaimed in anguish, fierce tears streaming down her delicate features. Max took her in his arms, and she pressed her face into his jacket, sobbing uncontrollably.

“Shhhh…..so…Tess knows about us…and our meetings…have you told her anything else?” Max asked, running his free hand through his hair in frustration.

“Yes…I told her about the cancellation of my betrothal to Kyle, and that either you or Sean would be my next,” Elizabeth said, ashamedly.

“Don’t feel bad, you didn’t know she was betraying you!” Max said, taking her hand in his.

“What should we do?” Elizabeth asked, glancing inside.
“Don’t tell Annabelle anything else unless it’s false. Tell her lies,” Max eagerly suggested.

“Ok, now, let’s go up, they should be gone…hopefully…and the reason we came in here in the first place was because you wanted to talk to me” Elizabeth said, poking her head out and leading Max back upstairs.

“C’mon!” Elizabeth said, stepping in her door and closing and locking the door once they were both inside. She locked the balcony door and servant door then sat down on her bed, careful not to wrinkle her dress, which she suddenly remembered she had on.

If she had been alone with anyone else with this on, she would’ve covered up, but this was Max, she would’ve covered up, but this was Max, she loved him, and he loved, and he loved her, plus, they were getting married soon.

Max pulled a chair up across from her on the bed.

“I know this has all been sprung upon you quickly, and I wanted to make sure you were fine with this betrothal,” Max said, leaning down so that his elbows were on his knees and his hands were clasped together.

“Absolutely,” Elizabeth replied, smiling. Max gazed beautiful body. Silken hair, perfect face, perfect bosom, she was perfect.

“That being said, will you wear my ring?” Max asked, taking her left hand in one of his, and with the other, taking a stunning diamond ring out of a kerchief from his pocket.

“Max…I…yes, I will!!!” Elizabeth exclaimed, smiling brightly as the object was placed on her hand.

Elizabeth leaned forward and closed the small gap between them, placing her warm, moist lips onto his, sealing them in a hot kiss.

“Should we go back downstairs?” Max asked, cupping her cheek with one of his large hands.

“I suppose. I’d rather stay here and maybe get to know each other better,” Elizabeth said.

“Ok, let’s start with the basics…favorite color?” Max asked. Chelsea smiled at the question.

“Purple, let me guess…yours is blue,” Elizabeth said, a grin on her face.

“How’d you know?” Max asked, a shocked look on his face.

“Isabel,” Elizabeth simply said, shrieking as Max started tickling her sides.

“What else did she tell you?” he asked, pushing his chair back and standing up as Elizabeth fell back on her bed in laughter.

“Only your…deepest…darkest secrets!” Elizabeth squealed out.
Max stood mercilessly tickling a squealing Elizabeth.

“P…please! I beg of you m…my good…lord!” Elizabeth exclaimed in between of laughter. She couldn’t imagine how disheveled she appeared at the moment.

Max abruptly stopped, but his hands stayed on her torso.

“Max…?” Elizabeth asked as he suddenly appeared to go in a trance.
Puzzled, Elizabeth looked down at where he was looking at her chest and shrieked.

Somehow, when Max was tickling her, her dress had unlaced, and the part of her dress that should be covering her corset, was down towards the bottom of her ribs.

She quickly sat up and reached for something to cover herself with, but found nothing, so she folded her arms over her almost exposed upper half. Noticing his hands were still on her torso, Max blushed and took them away.

“Sorry,” he mumbled, sitting back down in the chair. Elizabeth sighed and let go of the dress, before pushing it all the way off, almost startling Max into a heart attack.

“W…what are you doing?” Max stuttered.

“What’s the use of covering up if you’ve already seen?” Elizabeth shrugged, grinning.

“B…but all you have on is…” Max started.

“A corset, leggings, and knickers,” Elizabeth finished for him, standing up and sitting on his lap, on top of his very hard member, “I said we should get to know each other better, and you’re simply the one who took the first step…don’t be embarrassed.” Max blushed furiously and put his forehead on her arm.

“Get up for a minute,” Max whispered against her skin. Elizabeth obeyed and stood up abruptly.

Her mouth gaped as he pulled is jacket off, then his tunic. His hands reached down to his belt and he slowly pulled his pants down, leaving him in only his boxers.

Elizabeth blushed when she saw his very firm erection standing proudly up.

He sat back down on the chair and her face very red, she sat down on his lap.

“Hey, you’re the one who basically said not to be embarrassed,” Max said, nuzzling her neck. Elizabeth giggled as it tickled her.

“That tickles!” she squealed, jumping off of his lap and crawling on her bed, laying on her stomach with her feet in the air, facing him.

“Awww, I’m sorry,” Max said, giving her his best puppy dog face.

“I’ll forgive you…as long as you do 2 things,” Elizabeth said.

“What are they?” Max asked, leaning forward a bit.

“One, NEVER tickle me again…two, NEVER mention any of this to anyone, not even Isabel,” Elizabeth said, leaning forward seductively to whisper in his ear. She felt goose bumps prickle his skin and she secretly smiled. For some reason, she was feeling REALLY horny.

“Promise…can I kiss my bride to be now?” Max asked in a strained voice. Elizabeth nodded and Max leaned up, hungrily kissing her lips as her mouth eagerly opened for his tongue. Max’s hand slowly went over to the back of her corset and was trying to get it off when someone knocked on the door.

Silent, Max and Elizabeth looked to the door, their mouths and surrounding areas red from Elizabeth’s lipstick.

“W…who is it?” Elizabeth asked, her voice coming up breathier than usual as Max kissed her neck.

“Annabelle, may I come in?” she asked. Elizabeth froze; her expressions hardening.

“Just a moment!” Elizabeth called, jumping up and slipping in her dress, having Max quickly lace it up before fixing her hair, and makeup, then fixing Max up and ushering him out through the servants’ door after a few hushed kisses.

“Annabelle, I was just resting,” Elizabeth said, acting like she was glad to see Annabelle.

“We were worried when we couldn’t find you and Max, did he come up here with you?” Annabelle asked, winking.

“No, we left together, and parted out ways,” Elizabeth lied.

“Ok, congratulations on your betrothal,” Annabelle exclaimed, taking one of Elizabeth’s nighties out and helping her undress.

“Thank you Annabelle, I will see you in morning,” Elizabeth replied, slipping into her turned down bed.

Annabelle smiled at her before quietly exiting her room. Elizabeth kept her eyes firmly closed until she was sure Annabelle was gone before throwing her sheets off and walking to the servants’ door.

“Good, you’re still here,” Elizabeth said, smiling and taking his hand in hers and leading him to her balcony.

“Well, I couldn’t exactly leave right before midnight now could I? I’m not one to easily break traditions,” Max said as the clock struck midnight and he kissed her.

[IluvMaxEvans]

Disclaimer: I don’t own anything

Author’s Note: Thanks for all the wonderful feedback


Chapter 13: The journal


“I will see you tomorrow love,” Elizabeth whispered, kissing Max’s hand as he slowly climbed down the ladder. He smiled at her and climbed the rest of the way down, met by his horse. With one last whispered ‘I love you’ he rode off into the night.

“Liz, wake up,” Annabelle said, nudging Elizabeth awake the next morning. Elizabeth opened her eyes and looked up at Annabelle sleepily, “we must dress you formally, the theatre you’re to attend is a very prestigious place.”

“Charming,” Elizabeth replied sleepily, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes.

“Ah, here it is!” Annabelle exclaimed, holding up a jeweled blue silk dress.

“It’s beautiful! Though it looks like it hurts a tad,” Elizabeth said, touching the diamonds and sapphires encrusted in it.

“It will be stiff, but merely that,” Annabelle said, smiling and helping her into a corset. Once on, she slipped the dress on and laced it up tight.

“I…can’t breathe!” Elizabeth gasped out.

“You must take small breaths,” Annabelle replied, doing up Elizabeth’s hair, “it is quite warm out for January, so I would advise for you to stay away from the lake, the ice could be melting.”

“Ok,” Elizabeth said as she slipped on her blue heeled slippers. Annabelle held out a pair of white silk gloves, and a fan, which Elizabeth took, and then Annabelle put on the necklace Max had given Elizabeth for Christmas, and smiled at her. She still couldn’t believe that this woman, who was so kind to her, was betraying her!

“Good morning Elizabeth,” Jeffrey said from the breakfast table, “you look very stunning in that dress, and that necklace, I assume Lord Evans purchased it for you, speaking of him, he is waiting outside for you.”

“Thank you father, have a pleasant day!” Elizabeth said, her white gloves and lace fan in hand, and at the door, a bonnet was placed upon her head.

“Max!” Elizabeth greeted once outside, pecking him on the lips.
“Liz, you will not need that bonnet, it is sunny, but not that sunny,” Max said, taking the bonnet off and throwing it inside the carriage.
She giggled and took his hand as they got into the carriage.

“What play are we seeing?” Elizabeth asked.

“Romeo and Juliet,” Max replied, putting his arm around her.

“How appropriate,” Elizabeth replied, giggling, “how long does it take to get there?”

“About an hour, are you tired?” Max asked, stroking her hair carefully.

“Just a bit, I’m going to nap,” Elizabeth said, putting her head carefully in his lap and dozing off.

“Liz, here we are!” Max said, stroking her cheek. She sat up and looked at the hand mirror by her. She fixed her hair and makeup before taking Max’s hand and getting out of the carriage.

They handed their tickets in and took their seats in the balcony.
People filled in all around until there wasn’t a single empty space, and it was stifling hot. She was glad she had her fan with her.

Elizabeth watched with fascination throughout the whole of the play, never having witnessed one before.

When the play finally finished Elizabeth loudly applauded. She dabbed at her eyes with the handkerchief Max gave to her, for at the end, she had bawled like a baby.

“Did you enjoy yourself?” Max asked, arm linked with hers and taking her to the carriage.

“Yes it was…was…spectacular!” Elizabeth exclaimed, stepping in.

“No, we’re not getting in,” Max said, pulling her back. He went to the trunk, taking out a basket, “follow me.”

He led her to a park that, amazingly, was still alive in growth. The roses had little buds on them, and there were even a few tulips.

He laid out a blanket and Elizabeth carefully sat, shielding her eyes from the sun. Max smiled and handed he her bonnet. Elizabeth grinned and put it on.

“What would you like on your sandwich?” he asked.

“Ham, cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, and turkey,” Elizabeth said, mouth watering. Max quickly made her sandwich and put an apple on the plate as well as a turkey leg.

He made his own plate, then took twp goblets out and poured sparkling wine into them.

Elizabeth hungrily ate, having skipped breakfast, and drunk her drink, finishing even before Max.

“Hungry much?” Max asked, finishing off his drink. Elizabeth nodded and pushed her dirty dishes away, relaxing back on the blanket.

“That turkey is making me…sleepy,” Elizabeth yawned.

“Just take a nap, I’ll straighten up,” Max said. Inside he was glad; this was all part of his plan.

He cleaned up the dirty dishes and took a parcel from his jacket pocket, then nudging Elizabeth.

“Hey Max,” Elizabeth said, moving so that she was sitting in-between his legs.

“Good news, and bad news,” Max started, leaning his chin on her shoulder and wrapping his arms around her waist.

“I want the bad news first,” Elizabeth said, heart thumping faster.

“I’m leaving for Italy…and will be gone 6 months…I leave in 1 week,” Max said, “now the good news. We are getting married a week after I return, instead of 3 months after I get back.”

“Max! 6 months! I can’t live without you for that long!” Elizabeth exclaimed, turning around to face him in his lap.

“Yes, you can. Trust me, I don't’ want to do this either, I have something for you though,” Max replied, taking the parcel from behind him.

Elizabeth eagerly opened it and softly smiled. It was a green leather journal with gold edged pages. On the front was inscribed ‘Elizabeth Parker-Barrington.’ She opened it up and found a black and white picture of Max, and there was a silk page marker attached that had her initials and Max’s initials linked together.

“I want you to write in here everyday. All the good, and bad things that happen to you, and when I return, we can look at it together,” Max said, kissing her forehead.

“MUST you go? Can’t I come along?” Elizabeth asked.

“Yes, I must go, and unfortunately, no women can come, otherwise you would be coming with me, I am sorry. But to try to make up for it, father says you may stay the week at our house,” Max informed her.

“Ok…wait…you will miss my birthday!” Elizabeth exclaimed.

“Aye, I will. I hate having to miss your birthday, but I will send my love,” Max replied, hugging her tightly. By no, Elizabeth’s eyes were flooded with tears.

“A… and suppose I’ve fallen in love with another by the time you return? Or what if you find another love in Italy?” Elizabeth demanded, broken up inside.

“That will not happen, I will write as much as possible, and unless you magically appear in Italy, will not love any one there,” Max said, eyes tearing up as well.

“Oh Max!” Elizabeth exclaimed. She pulled back and stood up, “let’s go now.”

“Ok,” Max replied, taking her hand and leading her to the carriage where he got in first and then helped Elizabeth in, laying her head on his lap.

She sobbed herself to sleep as future visions of them flooded her dreams as they drove back to her house.

When they stopped in front of the house, 2 butlers were ready with her luggage, obviously a messenger had been sent.

They loaded the luggage in the small trunk before the carriage took off for Max’s house.

Upon arriving Max delicately picked up Elizabeth and brought her inside and up to Isabel’s room.

“Max…take her to your room, her bed’s gone, and I only have a single bed, you have a double, plus, I know that’s where she would want to wake up,” Isabel said, smiling kindly at the sleeping Elizabeth.

“A…are you sure?” Max asked. Isabel nodded and Max turned around and went to his chambers, placing Elizabeth gently onto his bed. She curled up as the covers were placed over her head, and Max turned to leave.

“Max…” Elizabeth said faintly, but loud enough for Max to hear. He turned around quickly.

“What is it love?” he asked her.

“Stay with me, please,” Elizabeth said, sitting up and pushing the silk sheets aside.

Not able to deny his love’s simple request he walked over to the bed, where she stood up.

“Help me change,” she whispered, grabbing her midnight blue lacy nightie from her suitcase.

Max’s breath hitched at the thought of seeing her magnificently naked with the exception of her knickers. He obeyed though, and with shaky hands he unlaced her dress and let the exquisite gown fall to a heap on the floor, forgotten immediately.

She kicked her shoes off, and her leggings went next. Max’s breaths were coming out ragged and uneven as his hands slowly undid her corset strings.

As the final one dropped down she stood with her back faced towards him, completely exposed if not for her knickers.

He took her silky hand in his and turned her around slowly. There she was, all her beautiful glory, standing in front of him, totally unashamed.

His hand unconsciously moved to her bare waist and moved up, until it landed on her perfect breast. Her breath hitched.

“Maaaaax,” she moaned as he massaged it, “w…we can’t…not yet.”

“Ok,” Max replied huskily, removing his hand with a lot of difficulty and moving it to put her nightie on her.

After Max was finished he almost cursed himself for agreeing to this. All night long he’d be taunted with the faint outline of her nipple.

He pulled his jacket, tunic, and pants off, then his shoes.

Max laid down in his bed and Elizabeth got in, immediately curling into his embrace, her face resting on his chest. Max leaned down and kissed her forehead.

“I love you,” she mumbled.

“Love you too,” he whispered back before falling asleep in her embrace.

[IluvMaxEvans]

Disclaimer: I own nothing at all

Author’s Note: Thanks for the replies I have a new beta, so my writing style may seem to change a bit


Chapter 14: Cemented


Elizabeth opened her eyes as the sunlight filtered around her head. She blinked a few times to get adjusted to the change in light. At first she was confused…this wasn’t her bed…this was Max’s bed!!!

Her thoughts traveled back to the day before. Max was leaving…for 6 months! A silent tear fell down her face and she was startled when a thumb moved to wipe it away.

“Don't cry love, I don’t want your tears to fall on my account,” Max said, stroking her cheek which was now sodden with tears. Elizabeth quietly snuggled into is embrace and wept into is chest. Max stroked her hair gently and whispered soothing sounds into her ears.

Elizabeth leaned up and kissed Max, allowing him to console her aching heart.

Max slowly scooted out of bed and stretched before pulling on some clothes. Elizabeth let Max pick out a simple dress and put it on her; it didn’t require a corset thankfully. He took her hand and they walked down to the kitchen.

“Good morning my Lord, your father and sister are about to dine, if you wish to dine with them,” the cook said.

“Let’s eat with them,” Elizabeth said eagerly. Max was slightly disappointed that Elizabeth didn’t want to dine privately, but he respected her wish and they went out to sit with Maximillion and Isabel.

“Liz dear, it’s lovely to see that you are well, I’m sorry we parted on such a bitter note before, and once again…I truly am sorry Max had to leave, but business is business,” Maximillion said, offering a kind smile.

Elizabeth returned the smile and hungrily ate her bacon and toast.

The rest of the week followed pretty routinely. Elizabeth would wake up in Max’s arms, though they had not yet cemented their love, he would help her dress, they ate, and at night they would help each other undress.

They had seen each other naked, but upon Elizabeth’s request, they waited.

“Max? What are you doing love?” Elizabeth asked, stepping into his room after she got back from talking to Isabel.

“I’m packing, the ship leaves at 6:00 p.m. 2 days from now, so father insisted I begin to pack, trust me, I’d rather be with you somewhere,” Max grumpily replied, tossing a pair of pants into his suitcase.

Elizabeth, sensing his anger, started to leave the room; he needed some time alone.

“Liz…I’m sorry for snapping at you…take a walk with me,” Max said, holding his hand out for her to take.

She smiled, and hand in hand they walked towards the cottage in the woods. Max opened the door and took Liz’s coat before kindling a fire.

“When did you put the combs I gave you in?” Max asked, stroking the hair around them as they cuddled before the fire.

“Mary Beth helped me put my hair up this morning, and they matched the dress I’m wearing,” Elizabeth replied simply, fingering the sapphire blue muslin dress she was wearing.

“I have something for you…a going away present,” Max mumbled after a moment of drowsy silence. Elizabeth turned her head around and looked up at him, smiling.

“Max, you’ve given me everything I need, you don’t need to give me anything else,” Elizabeth said.

“No, my angel, I’ve yet to even begin spoiling you. You will never have to ask for a thing, because I will shower you with every affection and valuable your heart desires,” Max whispered, kissing Elizabeth’s forehead.

“You are so wonderful,” Elizabeth replied.

“I picked it up from you, I’ve changed so much since I met you,” Max told her, hugging her tighter. He reached into his pocket and took out a small, slender box. Smiling, she took it from him and opened it up.

“Oh Max, it’s beautiful!” Elizabeth cried, gaping at the delicate gold bracelet in front of her. Its design was that of little linking roses with a diamond for the center.

“I was hoping that you would like it, let me put it on you,” Max said, gently clasping it to her wrist.

“We should go now; it’s near 9:00 p.m.” Elizabeth reluctantly said after glancing at the clock.

“No, let’s stay,” Max pleaded. Elizabeth knew what he as suggesting by saying this and her eyes widened.

“Max…we need to wait until we marry,” Elizabeth said, releasing her from his grasp and turning around so that she could face him.

“Do you truly wish to wait my love? What does it matter whether we’re married or not? I want to show you just how I love you Liz,” Max said in a husky voice.

“Max…dear Max,” Elizabeth softly purred, tucking a stray piece of hair behind his ear affectionately. Max caught her wrist in his large hand and tenderly kissed her palm.

One single tear fell down her face that Elizabeth didn’t even notice.
She wasn’t even sad. She was happier than she had been in a long time.

Max slowly leaned in and kissed away the tear and its path down her face until he reached her lips.

Elizabeth’s hands moved to his back on their own accord and she lifted his tunic up and over his head.

Her lips tenderly wandered over his chest as he slipped her gown to the floor, leaving her nude. Max gawked, she hadn’t been wearing any undergarments this whole time!

“You’re so beautiful,” he purred seductively into her ear a moment later as they both kneeled, naked on the floor, embraced in a sensual hug.

“You cease to amaze me Maximillion Bartholomew Evans II…make love to me,” Elizabeth said breathily.

“I love you,” he whispered before lowering her slowly to the ground while kissing her neck.

~ ~ ~

“Max Evans…you ARE a god!” Elizabeth giggled, spent and sweating on the bed, tangled up in his embrace. He laughed and kissed her forehead.

They had finally given in to temptation and “cemented” their relationship…3 times to be exact. It was now 8 in the morning, and they were just enjoying their time alone.

Elizabeth gazed down at Max’s glorious body, not embarrassed to do so anymore. He was beautiful. From his washboard abs, glittering in sweat, to his legs, one of them laid protectively over hers, his hardness pressed against her stomach, arousing her all over again.
There was no getting bored of Max Evans…no way.

“Then you…are my goddess,” Max whispered, stretching his arms and legs.

“If only…” Elizabeth sighed before she could stop herself.

“If only what love?” Max murmured, pulling her up against him, her back molded to his front.

“…if only we didn’t have to wait 6 months to get married…” Elizabeth continued quietly. Max was silent and Elizabeth took this the wrong way. She pulled out of his embrace and stood up, trying to her dress up her shaking body.

“Liz! No! I didn’t mean that!” Max exclaimed, scrambling out of bed and up to Elizabeth, taking her hands in his. Her dress hung off one shoulder limply, revealing her right breast.

“B…but it’s obvious that you don’t care that we must wait half a year to wed,” Elizabeth choked out, trying not to cry.

“I just couldn’t think of anything to say love…now I know…let’s get married…tomorrow, before I leave!” Max exclaimed, fixing her hair. Elizabeth smiled softly and kissed him.

“That’s wonderful! Oh, I’m sorry I’m so moody though, you must forgive me Max,” Elizabeth exclaimed, pulling her dress shoulder up to cover her exposed breast.

“You don’t need to be sorry, I didn’t exactly say anything,” Max said, running his hands through her hair.

Elizabeth smiled and leaned up on her tiptoes to kiss him. She squealed in surprise when Max picked her up off the ground by her buttocks.

Against her greatest will, she blushed as his harness touched her core through her dress.

She had completely forgotten that he was gloriously naked this whole time. She slowly reached down and pulled her dress off and over her head. Max’s hands holding her up, Elizabeth spread her hands across his chest and lowered her mouth to his masculine nipple, sucking on it ever so lightly.

He moaned lightly and set her down on the bed, ready to fulfill their needs, when someone knocked at the door.

Max cursed darkly and pulled his pants on. Elizabeth scrambled under the bed covers and gave him a wary smile.

“Yes?” Max gruffly asked, opening the door, glad that the bed was in a separate room.

“Max, we need you back inside, the captain of your ship wishes to speak to you,” Maximillion said, stepping inside.

“Where is Elizabeth?” he asked, searching the room with his eyes.

“Right here my Lord, Max and I took a walk last night, and I was so exhausted that I decided to take a nap here, but ended up sleeping up sleeping the night away,” Elizabeth said, startling Max. He turned around and almost sighed in relief, she had put her clothes back on and her hair was perfect, as usual.

“Ok m’dear, now, why don’t you take a walk, or something while Max is with Captain Berry,” Maximillion suggested as the 3 of them walked back towards the house.

“Ok my Lord,” Elizabeth said, turning to go up towards Isabel’s room when they got inside. Max gave her a small secretive smile before she was completely out of view.

[IluvMaxEvans]

Disclaimer: I own absolutely nothing…sad I know

Author’s Note: Hey you guys, sorry for the delay, I was writers blocked on this for a while, but here’s the new chapter! Sorry that it’s so short

Chapter 15: The wedding

“Liz?” Max asked, walking through the halls toward is quarters.

“I’m in here Max!” Elizabeth called from his bedroom. Max smiled and walked in, capturing her in a kiss when he walked in.

“What was that for?” Elizabeth asked, giggling.

“Can I not kiss my bride to be?” Max asked cheerfully.

“Of course, now…what did the captain want?” Elizabeth questioned, sitting down in front of the vanity Max had bought for her.

“Nothing, he was just talking about what our course would be, noting special,” Max replied, walking up behind her and taking the brush from her hands, “you are already beautiful...and now Isabel wishes to talk to you.”

Elizabeth smiled and stood up, kissing Max meaningfully before walking towards Isabel’s quarters.

“Bell?” Elizabeth asked, knocking on the door. Isabel opened it all smiles.

“When were you going to tell me of your marriage? Tomorrow after it was done?” Isabel playfully exclaimed, pulling Elizabeth in and shutting the door tightly.

“Yes…well I was going to tell you tonight…oh Bell will you be my maiden of honor?” Elizabeth asked, sitting on an upholstered chair.

“Absolutely! Now…your dress…I took the liberty of ordering 2 dresses for you to choose from, I knew you would get married…and I know what you like…so I just planned ahead of time,” Isabel said, taking her in a small room where Mary-Beth was waiting.

She placed a blindfold on Elizabeth’s eyes and helped her get in a corset before slipping a dress on. The blindfold slipped off and Elizabeth opened her eyes, blinking.

She was in a white satin gown with a diamond bodice and long sleeves.

“Oh Bell, it is beautiful…but I don’t think this is the one,” Elizabeth said, turning around.

Isabel nodded in agreement and placed the blindfold back on. The gown was slipped off, and a much softer one slipped on.

Once again the blindfold was slipped off and Elizabeth gasped…this was the one.

The next evening

“Just breathe Elizabeth…breath!"

Elizabeth took a deep breath as her gown was once again slipped on. It was a snow white silk gown with a corset bodice and a wide flare bottom.

The sleeves were thin and sheer, barely sitting on her shoulders, and flaring out like a bell. Isabel put rouge and eye makeup on Elizabeth.

“Oh Liz, you are so lovely, Max will lose his breath at the mere sight of you,” Isabel sighed, curling Elizabeth’s brown hair. Elizabeth smiled and took one of the soft ringlets in her hand and smiled.

“Does Maximillion know of this?” Elizabeth asked worriedly, she had stayed with Isabel the night and didn’t have a chance to talk to Max.

“Yes, Max discussed it with father 2 nights ago,” Isabel nodded and smiled excitedly at Elizabeth.

“This is it!” Isabel exclaimed, holding up Liz’s train.

“…this is it,” Elizabeth breathed out as they walked silently down the hall. Elizabeth’s footsteps echoed in the hallways until Isabel stepped in front of the ballroom doors.

She knocked twice and handed Elizabeth a bouquet of white roses as the grand doors opened.

Elizabeth slowly walked down the trail of red carpet that was lying on the ground. There were roses all over the grand ballroom and silk banners strung on the walls.

And there was Max. Standing next to Lord Michael, his best man, and Lord Alexander. He was so handsome in his fancy black suit. He smiled encouragingly at her and she smiled back, still utterly amazed.

With a quick glance behind her she saw that Isabel and Maria were holding up her train as she walked.

She stopped at the platform and faced Max, her face shadowed slightly by the veil.

“Dearly beloved we are gathered here today for the marital binding of these two people…..” the priest started, “….do you, Maximillion take thee Elizabeth to be your lawful wedded wife in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer until death do you part?”

“I do,” Max said, smiling at Elizabeth.

“And do you, Elizabeth, take thee Maximillion to be your lawful wedded husband in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer until death do you part?” the priest asked Elizabeth this time.

“I do,” Elizabeth replied confidently. The priest smiled at them and closed his bible. Max slipped his ring on her finger.

“With these rings I thee wed,” he said, clasping his hands in his. She smiled and a boy gave her Max’s gold band.

“With this ring, I thee wed,” she said, slipping the ring on his finger.

“Then I now pronounce you max and wife, you may kiss the bride,” the priest said. Max leaned in and captured Elizabeth in a breathtaking kiss, while the 10 or so people in the audience applauded and sighed.

“Congratulations Liz, you and Max can go up to your quarters now…all your gifts are waiting,” Isabel said. Elizabeth widely smiled and hugged Isabel before taking Max’s hand and retreating upstairs to their quarters.

“Oh my!” Elizabeth exclaimed upon seeing the tons of boxes. Max smiled and scooped her up in his arms, carrying her over the threshold of their bedroom.

He continued to carry her past the presents and set her on the bed, grinning mischievously.

She looked up at him with her doe eyes and pulled him down by the coat.

They made sure to make this time lasting, since Max was leaving the next day. Caressing every inch of each other’s bodies, taking in every erotic moan of pleasure.

“What time is it?” Elizabeth whispered, stroking Max’s bare chest as they rested.

“I don’t know and I don’t care…” Max mumbled, “…but if you must know it is 4:00 in the morning.”

“You leave at noon, correct?” Elizabeth asked.

“Err…no. The captain wishes s to leave at 8 a.m.” Max said apologetically.

“That god awful captain,” Elizabeth mumbled looking up at Max’s face. He smiled at his wife…wife, what a wonderful word…and kissed her.

“Well, Mrs. Evans, we’ll just have to spend our remaining time wisely,” Max said, smiling.

“Mrs. Evans…I like it, but, I prefer Liz,” Liz pondered, closing her eyes, which were drooping from tiredness. She was asleep within a second and Max succumbed himself as well.

Elizabeth rolled over, expecting to be met by Max’s warm, loving embrace, but instead fell off the bed.

“Ah!” she shrieked, grabbing for the sheets as she fell. A minute later Max stood over her in his boxers, laughing.

She pouted and stood up, wrapping the sheets around her cold naked body.

“Why are you up?” she asked, brushing her hair with the jewel encrusted brush she had received from Isabel as a wedding gift.

“My darling, its 7:00,” Max said, pointing to the clock, which chimed at that second. Liz’s face dropped and she set the brush down, walking to her closet.

She took out a long black dress and corset, having a maid help her dress behind a curtain.

She reappeared in the black dress, face still sad and grabbed her hat and gloves.

“Well, shall we go?” she asked curtly. Max, who had dressed himself, took her in a tight embrace and rocked her back and forth, knowing that she was bottling all of her emotions up inside her.

She cried into his shoulder for about 10 minutes before she allowed him to guide her to the carriage. She clutched her journal to her heart and let Max try to console her as they approached the harbor.

[IluvMaxEvans]

Disclaimer: I own nothing…nothing at all
Author’s Note: First, let me say I’m sooooo sorry for the wait, this story just hasn’t been coming to me lately…so here’s the next chapter, and thank you to all who have reviewed


Chapter 16


Elizabeth woke up with a start. It was that queasy feeling again. She took several deep breaths, trying to force it back down, but it didn’t work. She was sweating profusely and nearly hyperventilating.
As another bout of nausea slowly racked her body she jumped out of bed and stumbled to the basin she kept near her bed, emptying her stomach’s contents into it. 5 minutes later she collapsed onto the floor, hot tears running down her face as she sobbed for her health.
This had been happening for over 2 weeks now…and it was frightening her. She had gotten sick before…as a child on the streets, of course, but never to this extent. In the past couple of weeks she had lost close to 10 pounds, though she had the appetite of a horse.
Maybe it was merely depression…depression from not having Max around. It was now 2 months that he had been gone, and the 2 longest months she had ever experienced. By day she would talk with Isabel…just chats about life in general, but never delving into Elizabeth’s constant sicknesses. By night she would write vigorously in the journal Max had given her, writing at least 3 pages down detailing her day. She would then try to sleep, and often succeeded after crying in her loneliness, but not lately.
Lately she would toss and turn all night, never getting a restful sleep, and always leaving her tired come morning. Isabel noticed her change of attitude, along with her frequent bouts of sleepiness, and it worried her. She tried discussing it with Elizabeth but she would change the subject almost immediately. Isabel just decided to leave her alone, and wait until she was ready to come to her about it.
Elizabeth slowly stood up and walked with shaky legs back to her bed, curling into a tight ball on top of it as she closed her eyes and tried to fall back asleep. Max’s face appeared in her head and a small smile formed on her face as she dreamt about him. Max…the only thing that helped her get to sleep at all anymore…the thought that in only a few months he would return to her, and she would have him next to her every night.
“Liz…wake up,” Isabel said, gently prodding Elizabeth on the shoulder. Elizabeth looked up groggily at Isabel and sat up.
“Hey Bell,” she replied, forcing a small smile on her face. Truth be told, she felt worse than she had in a while and just wanted to rest.
“Question…you haven’t seen daylight in over 3 weeks…go shopping with me? My treat, we’ll go to London, and I’ll take you to this new boutique they have, this woman is a genius, and her gowns are perfect…” Isabel asked with a hopeful smile. Elizabeth was unhealthily pale lately, not her usual tan, and she looked like she could use a day of fun.
“Bell, I…I just don't think that I’m up for it, you know…” Elizabeth began, trying to get out of this. She didn’t want to go anywhere right now.
“Elizabeth…please, just today,” Isabel pleaded, clasping Elizabeth’s hand, “a girl’s day out.”
“Bell I…..fine,” Elizabeth replied, slowly getting out of her bed and walking over to the closet where she pulled out a midnight blue gown. Isabel called the maid and Elizabeth was quickly dressed and cleaned up. They decided to put her hair in a simple knot at the back of her head. She slipped on the gold bracelet Max had given her the night they made love the first time gently before turning to Isabel.
“Let’s go,” she said, smiling. Isabel smiled in reply and took Elizabeth’s arm, leading her down to the carriage.
One step at a time Elizabeth came closer to the carriage. Step by step. She laughed at something Isabel said. Step by step. She reached the landing and suddenly all the world started spinning; Isabel’s voice became increasingly louder, more panicked. Her eyes rolled to the back of her head as she fell back, being caught by the doorman just in time.
“Liz!!” Isabel exclaimed, kneeling down besides Elizabeth, worry filled in her pretty eyes, “FATHER!!!”
Maximillion heard his daughter shout for him from his study. He was up in an instant and raced to the foyer, where he found her hunched over the passed out Elizabeth.
“My god in heaven…what happened?” he asked, running over to them.
“Daddy….she…just fainted, oh dad, she’s been having these nausea spells, she doesn’t think I know….but I hear her in the middle of the night, she’s been losing weight and…why didn’t I do anything??” Isabel exclaimed, tears gushing out of her eyes, causing them to puff up.
“Hush now…it’ll be alright, let’s get her to the doctor’s house,” Maximillion said, picking Elizabeth carefully up and briskly walking to the carriage.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Elizabeth opened her eyes and gazed around the unfamiliar room. Dr. Miller came over to her almost immediately.
“Elizabeth! I’m so glad you are awake! I have good news for you,” he said, a smile lighting his face.
“Wait…how long have I been here?” she asked, her mind fuddled.
“A day and a half, you have been in and out of it…we didn’t know if you were going to make it,” he said, “now, no more talk of darkness…Elizabeth, do you know why you have been sick these past few weeks?”
“How do you…?” Elizabeth asked, startled. She hadn’t told anyone about her sickness!
“My dear, Isabel has known…now, the reason for your constant bouts of nausea…Elizabeth…you are with child,” he said, smiling softly. Elizabeth’s eyes widened and her draw dropped open. She was pregnant…with Max’s child!
“Does….did you tell…?” she stuttered out, too many emotions running around in her head to make any coherent sentences. She was excited, excited because she was carrying the heir to the Evan’s fortune, and carrying Max’s child… worried, worried because she didn’t know if he even wanted this baby….overwhelmed, but by what? Why should she be overwhelmed by something so good?
“I have told no one else, and I won’t unless you give me permission,” Dr. Miller replied.
“Tell them…they deserve to know…just don't tell anyone else...ANYONE…not even my parents,” Elizabeth replied, a smile settling on her face after she was done talking. She would make this work.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Tess left the room she had just been talking to Annabelle with. Their plot was well underway; it would just need a couple more weeks. They would strike at Elizabeth when she least expected it, and was most vulnerable from her loneliness without Max.
She was to go to the Evans’ house today to speak to Lord Evans; in regard of getting Annabelle a job…this was all part of their plan. To get Annabelle in, and to get her to get a hold of Elizabeth.
She got out of her carriage and began to walk up to the front door, but stopped in her tracks and hid behind a bush when she saw Lord Evans rushing out of the house with a fainted Elizabeth in his arms and Isabel rushing behind him.
“Follow them!” she ordered her driver, her curiosity peaked. This could be the perfect time to make her move. Elizabeth was vulnerable from whatever had just happened…and if she just happened to die from natural causes at the Doctor’s house…no one would suspect a thing…and she would be the NEW Mrs. Max Evans.
Ever since her sources had told her of Max and Elizabeth’s secret wedding, she had been eager to get rid of the bitch. She didn’t care how anymore…it just had to be done. She contemplated going to Elizabeth’s parents…but decided that they would hardly do anything that bad to Elizabeth.
By the time they reached Dr. Miller’s house the Evans’ were already inside. She snuck in the front door silently and heard the bustle inside.
“She is out of it…won’t wake up for a while now…if she does wake up,” the doctor said solemnly. Great. Now she was going to have to wait for her to wake up. She went into a nearby broom closet that shared a vent with Elizabeth’s room, allowing her access to everything that was being said.
Tess settled herself down after locking the door and opened the vent. A day and a half went by with her sitting there. Watching intensely, and sneaking out on occasion to relieve her or to snatch something to eat.
“Her head dropped as she tried to stay awake and her eyes just started to close when she detected movement. Her attention was immediately that of a hawk and she listened to what was being said.
“Elizabeth! I’m so glad you are awake! I have good news for you,” Dr. Miller said, a smile lighting his face.
Wait…how long have I been here?” Elizabeth asked.
“A day and a half, you have been in and out of it…we didn’t know if you were going to make it,” he said, “now, no more talk of darkness…Elizabeth, do you know why you have been sick these past few weeks?”
“How do you…?” Elizabeth asked again.
“Get on to the point!!” Tess thought impatiently.
“My dear, Isabel has known and she told me…now, the reason for your constant bouts of nausea…Elizabeth…you are with child,” he said, smiling softly.
After this Tess tuned out completely. That….that bitch!! She got herself pregnant with HER future husband!!! She would make her pay…if it was the last thing she did.

[IluvMaxEvans]

Disclaimer: i dont' own anything from Roswell

Author's Note: I am SOOOO sorry for the wait everyone, I've had really bad writers block with this, and I have a bad habit of starting new stories when I really need to finish my other ones, lol, I really hope you like this chapter, and understand that I'm writing through writers block ***I'm going to just call her Liz from now on, alot easier to type lol***


Chapter 17

Liz slowly stirred from her slumber and looked at her surroundings. She was still in the doctor's home, trying to get used tot he morning sickness, something she probably would never get used to.

"Liz! Good you're awake, I have good news for you, we're releasing you to go back home with Lord Evans today, weekly check-ups will be needed though, just to make sure everything is in tip top shape," Dr. Miller said kindly, checking her pulse quickly, "now, my wife is going to help bathe you, and then you are free to go, Lord Maximillion is on his way now."

"Thank you," Liz replied, her voice a little hoarse. With the doctor's wife's help Liz got out of the bed and was bathed and dressed in a warm flannel dress and slippers.

"My Lord!" she exclaimed, a bright smile on her face when seeing Maximillion.

"Oh come on, we are far past that my dear, call me Maximillion, or Father if you wish," Maximillion said, gently hugging his daughter in law, "Shall we go? Isabel is very eager to see you."

"I miss Isabel so much," Liz smiled, walking slowly out to the carriage that was waiting for them. Maximillion helped her in and they took off towards the Evans Mansion.

"Have my parents called upon you?" Liz asked tentatively.

"Liz, we haven't told them a thing, we won't unless you want us to of course," Maximillion said reassuringly.

"No...Not yet...they don't even know I am married to Max yet...oh I miss him so much as well..." Liz sighed, gazing out the window as they approached the mansion.

"Don't worry my dear, before you know it, he'll be home, and you will be have a family to tend to, as well as a home, I am making arrangements as we speak to get you your own home not that far from here," Maximillion informed her.

Liz's face lit up at this news and she squeezed his hand in thanks before getting out of the halted carriage with help from the driver.

"LIZ!!" Isabel exclaimed from the front door of the house. She gathered up her skirts and ran as fast as she could towards Liz, hugging her once she was near enough, "Oh Liz I'm so happy for you! They wouldn't let me visit while you were in the hospital; I was stuck here without you for 2 weeks!!!"

"I missed you so much Bell!" Liz said, a tear slipping out of her eyes, Isabel truly was like a sister to her and Liz didn't like being separated from her for long.

"Come on Liz, we have so much talking to do, and tomorrow if you're feeling better I want to take you baby shopping, do you have a hunch at what it might be??" Isabel asked eagerly, helping Liz walk up the stairs.

"Not really, but I hope it's a girl...I've always wanted a little girl to pamper and spoil...I would so love a girl," Liz sighed. They sat down on top of her bed and Liz laid her head back, not meaning to fall asleep, but the second she closed her eyes sleep took her.

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

"Father...we need to tell Max...even if she wants to wait, he needs to know," Isabel said quietly to her father in his study as Liz slept upstairs. Maximillion nodded thoughtfully and set his bourbon down on the desk.

"I'll write him immediately and send the letter by the fastest means possible, he'll make up the work another time, the girl needs him, as it is, he won't get the letter for a good week, and the journey home is about a month..." Maximillion mused, taking a sheet of stationary and a pen.

Max,

My son, it may not be my place to inform you of this...but Liz is with child. She is approximately one month in and I would encourage that you come back immediately, she needs you with her, and your business can be made up at a later time. We are taking very good care of her, but I think that the best medicine she could use would be you Max.

Your Father,

Maximillion Evans

"Here, give this to Nigel, tell him to mail it out as fast as possible, paying however much he needs to make it a number one priority," Maximillion said, handing Isabel the letter after putting it in an envelope and writing the address on the front.

Isabel walked briskly off to give Nigel the letter, eager to get Max back as soon as possible.

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

Tess stared at the wall in front of her, holding her the glass of vodka this hour in her hand.

"ANNABELLE!" She screeched. Annabelle had come to work for her after Tess pulled a few strings, and Annabelle was seriously regretting it.

"Yes my lady?" Annabelle asked, quickly walking into the room.

"We need to talk, this is taking too long, and we don't have forever, knowing Maximillion and Isabel, they will want Max back ASAP. We need to set this plan into action...now!" Tess exclaimed, standing up and throwing the glass tot he ground violently.

It shattered into a million pieces and Annabelle flinched against her will. She quickly grabbed a broom and swept it up, throwing away the shards of glass.

"W...what do you have in mind?" She asked calmly, looking at the floor.

"She'll lose the baby...and die in the process..." Tess seethed, pacing the room as she thought out her plan.

"My lady....dead? That's going a little too far..."Annabelle protested, death was never mentioned once.

"I will decide when it is too far!" Tess exclaimed, spinning around to face Annabelle, "You need to learn your place!"

"Yes my lady," Annabelle mumbled quietly.

"Go, I don't want to see you anymore right now, I'll call you when I need your help," Tess said, shooing her out and sitting with a huff on her chair.

She knew what she needed to do...she just needed to figure out how....

...and then it came to her.


TBC......

I'll try to type up the next chapter faster, thanks for your patience again spread the word