Sorry for the delay but RL has been really hectic and we got a really bad snowatorm we have been digging out of. So here is the next part. Hope you like it.
Part 35
Maria played Michael some of the songs she had written that had been recorded by various artists on their ride home from the restaurant.
As Michael listened to the music he realized that most of the songs had a sad melancholy feel to them. They were about lost love, love that was torn away, betrayal and love that had been a seed waiting to grow but had been killed by the cold. Michael could imagine the inspiration for each of the songs he heard, Liz, Kyle Alex and of course Maria herself.
The last song they had heard was sung by a country artist. While not normally Michael’s type of music the words of the song captivated him. The song was about a mother telling her daughter about her father and how much he loved them even though he had to go away. Michael had to try very hard to not cry as the words filtered through his mind. Not a sound was spoken as the last few notes filled the car.
A lump had formed in Michael’s throat and he could not find his voice. Maria just continued to drive letting him absorb the songs he had heard. She knew that some of it would be difficult for him but her songs were apart of her and she wanted him to know every part of her.
They drove in silence until she pulled into the drive of her house. Before they got out he reached over and grabbed her hand. She looked up and their eyes met.
“I always knew that you were talented Maria but… Those songs were amazing.”
She gave him a smile. “Thank You.”
After the brief exchange they had gotten out of the car and were now in the living room.
“Can I get you anything?” Maria asked as they sat in silence for a few moments.
“Do you have a beer?”
Maria frowned.
“Do you think that’s such a good idea? I thought you aliens couldn’t handle your liquor. I don’t need my living room lighting up like the fourth of July”
Michael smiled.
“Apparently it’s only Max who can’t hold his liquor.”
Maria looked at Michael confused.
“Alcohol it seems isn’t exclusive to earth. They have it on Antar too. Antarians drink it all the time without a problem. Max for some reason just can’t. I however am fine.”
Maria began to laugh.
“What’s so funny? You don’t think I can hold my liquor?”
Maria responded through bursts of laughter.
“No, it’s not that. It’s just that little bit of info about Max has always pissed Kyle off. Every time he would get drunk he would blame Max for lowering his alcohol tolerance. And Liz hasn’t even ever had a drink, all because Max is a lightweight.”
Michael had to admit that was kind of funny and joined in with her laughter.
Once she had composed herself she went and got a beer for Michael and got herself a glass of white wine. She set them down in front of Michael and then walked over to the large book shelf in the room. She pulled out a white leather book and brought it over to Michael and handed to him.
Michael looked at her confused.
“What is this?”
“That is Mikayla’s first scrapbook. I have documented ever moment of her life.”
Michael didn’t say a word. He just opened the front cover. There was a large full page picture of Mikayla when she was first born. Tears immediately sprang to his eyes.
She was perfect, beautiful.
“That was taken right after her first bath. She was so pink and soft. Alex snapped that right as I wrapped her in the towel.”
Michael again felt that jealous pang. It should have been him who took that picture.
After a few more moments running his finger over the photo he turned the page to find a picture of his daughter in her mother’s womb.
“How?” He asked as he ran his fingers over the image.
“We broke in to the radiology department in the Las Cruses Hospital. Liz read the manual of the ultrasound machine and we got the picture. We wanted to make sure that everything appeared normal.”
Underneath the ultrasound photo was a picture of Maria on a table holding Alex and Kyle’s hands.
Michael turned the page again and there were pictures of Maria at different stages of her pregnancy.
Maria pointed at the last one. It was one of three labeled ninth month.
“I was in my twelfth month in that picture. I told you that I looked like a whale. There is a reason that human pregnancies are only 9 months. No one should have to be pregnant that long.”
“You looked beautiful Maria.”
“You have to say that I was carrying your daughter.” She laughed.
The next few pages contained pictures of Mikayla’s birth. Then there were pictures of everyone with the baby.
Michael wished that he could go back in time. He wished he could hold his little girl in his arms, feel tiny fingers curl around his own. He realized as he flipped through that scrapbook of the first year of his daughter’s life that he had missed so much. He had known of course but this made it real. He saw these memories frozen in time, memories he would and could never be a part of and it wounded his soul.
As they looked through the book Maria would fill in the picture with a story. She wanted Michael to be a part of this part of Mikayla’s life even if he hadn’t been there.
The last page was a picture of a one year old Mikayla covered in icing and cake from her first birthday cake.
They both laughed at the photo. Then Michael set the book down on the coffee table.
“Thank You Maria. I missed so much of her life. I don’t want to miss anymore.”
“You won’t. There are plenty more where that came from.”
They spent much of the rest of the night talking about Maria and Mikayla’s life while he was gone but nothing about him and what had happened while he was gone.
Finally Maria asked him.
“Michael, we have spent the night talking about my life in the last five years what about you? What happened on Antar?”
A look of sadness passed across his face and then his eyes got dark.
“Maria… I don’t think that I can talk about it.”
Maria felt a knife stab her heart. Why should she be surprised? Michael had opened up to her truly only twice in their whole relationship. Why did she think this would be any different?
Michael saw the look of hurt that passed across her face.
“Maria its not that I don’t…”
“No, it’s ok Michael. I shouldn’t have asked. You know it’s getting late. We have to pick up Mikayla in the morning. I better get some rest.”
“Maria…” He tried to stop her from going.
“Good night Michael.” She said without looking back at him and giving him the opportunity to persuade her to stay. She had to start protecting herself. If Michael was going to be a part of Mikayla’s life she couldn’t let their relationship be volatile. That would destroy her daughter and she wouldn’t allow her to be hurt.
She went to her room and took a shower leaving Michael in the living room alone with his thoughts. She let the spray of the shower head drown her feelings away. It had been such a wonderful evening and then she had pushed to hard and now she didn’t know where they stood.
She got out of the shower and put on her comfort pj’s. They were soft and warm and always made her feel safe. She sat in front of her vanity and combed her hair. She felt as if she were in high school again. The same thoughts running through her head: “Where did she stand with Michael Guerin?”
She finished with her nightly routine and climbed into her bed. She was about to doze off when a light knock on her door startled her.
She wondered what she should do. It could only be one person. Should she pretend to be asleep? She didn’t know what to do. Finally she decided to open it.
There standing before her was Michael. A weird sense of Deja vu came over her. He had the same tortured pleading look he had the night he had come to her window so many years ago. Resistance was futile. She couldn’t resist him then and she couldn’t now.
“Can I come in?” He asked her.
She opened the door wider to allow him access to the room. He walked in and she shut it behind him.
“Michael…” She began but he cut her off.
Tears filled his eyes. “Maria, it’s not that I don’t want to… The things I’ve seen, experienced… I don’t want…” Tears were running down his face.
Maria placed her finger over his lip to silence him. She could see that he was in pain. It didn’t matter that he didn’t tell her about what happened these past five years. What mattered to her was that he had come to her when he needed comfort.
The tears continued to roll down his face as they stood there staring in to each others eyes. Maria took his hand in hers. She led him to her bed and pulled back the comforter. She took of his shirt and sat down with him. Neither of them said a word as he lay down and she wrapped him in her arms.
She held him tight as he cried silently. She didn’t need to know what had brought him to this moment all she wanted was to comfort him. As the minutes and hours ticked away in the night Maria held her Michael as she had so many years ago. Somewhere in the darkness the two drifted off to sleep both knowing that they’re loved.
Till we meet again (All CC ) MATURE Part 38 A/N 7.8 [WIP]
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Thanks to everyone for your patience and bumps. I don't wan to keep you waiting so here is the new part.
Part 36
Kyle stretched his hamstring in Roswell Central Park. He took a deep breath and savored the cool morning air.
Every year in the off season he came back to Roswell. The other players thought
He was nuts. There were no training facilities in the area and for the life of them they couldn’t fathom why one of their star players would want to spend his off time here.
What they didn’t understand was that Kyle didn’t need the training all he needed was his park.
When Kyle’s powers had first started to manifest themselves in college he would feel the strain of enormous amounts of energy in his legs and it caused him great pain. At first he had no idea what it was and worried that something was wrong. At practice when he would run sprints the tension would alleviate itself but it would return the following day.
When he returned home that spring for break he found himself in this park every morning. The more he ran the less energy and tension there was and boy could he run. Alex clocked him one day and he ran 2 miles in 4 minutes. They looked it up on the internet and found that his running time shattered the world record.
Kyle never allowed himself to run to his full potential in practice or in games. He never wanted to draw undue attention to himself for chance that he might appear on the radar of one of the “Men IN Black” as they had come to refer to them.
No, Kyle never ran to his full potential unless it was here in his park. Just before dawn when the air was cool and crisp and most souls were asleep Kyle came here and released that built up energy and tension. It had increased tenfold since Tess had come back and on this particular morning he was bursting with it.
He ran several times around the park and then returned to the bench where his gear was.
“Impressive.”
The words startled him. He turned quickly to find Tess standing behind him. She was dressed in pink low rise cropped knee pants a tight white t-shirt and a matching pink warm up jacket. Her hair was pulled back in to a tight ponytail which hung at the base of her neck. Her cheeks were tinged pink as if she too had been out in the brisk morning air for a while.
‘God, why does she have to be so damn beautiful?’ He thought to himself.
When he didn’t respond to her she spoke again. “Do you come here every morning?”
“Yeah.” He replied quickly. It was taking all of his concentration to prevent his body from reacting to the sight of her.
“What are you doing here?”
“Same as you I’m out for a run.”
He was here to get away from her and release the energy build up she was causing. Why was she here? Without really thinking about it he voiced what he was thinking.
“Why are you here in my park?”
Tess was surprised that he was so quiet. She had thought that after she had told him about Jamie and the two were finally together as Father and Son things would get better but from Kyle’s reaction here that didn’t seem to be the case.
“Funny because the sign outside didn’t say “Kyle Valenti Park” or even “Dumb ass Park.” So where is your claim to it?”
Kyle stopped the smile that threatened to appear on his lips. Even he had to admit that was a good comeback.
“That’s not what I mean. I come here to get away from everything and just run.”
“So am I the every thing that you’re trying to get away from?”
“No, I don’t know maybe. I mean you have to admit a lot has happened these last few days.”
“Are you not happy that Jamie is your son?”
“What?! No of course I am.”
“Because Kyle, if that is the case tell me know. Do not hurt him.”
“I would never hurt him. I loved him even before I knew he was my son. If you would have even considered the possibility that he was mine I might not have missed out on the first 5 years of his life.”
“That’s not fair”
He couldn’t do this he couldn’t let her get to him. IF he did he would begin to let his true feelings for her surface and he couldn’t do that. He would not allow himself to be hurt like that again.
“You wanted it to be Max’s. That’s all you ever wanted was Max and his child.”
Tess was angry. How could he deny what they had shared? Their love had created the most beautiful and precious thing; their son.
“That is not true and you know it Kyle Valenti! You can stand here and throw this crap at me all you want but you know how I felt about you, how I still feel about you. I will not let you deny what we had just so that you can continue to hide behind your anger.”
Tess was angry and her eyes were blazing. She was waving her hands in the air and pointing at him and all he wanted to do at that moment was kiss her. The more she yelled the more he wanted to do it. This was dangerous. He was losing control. He needed distance.
“I’m supposed to see Jamie this afternoon.”
“What?” Her head snapped around and her blazing eyes met his. Did he not just hear anything she said?
“Jamie our son, I am supposed to see him today.”
“Yes, I was going to bring him by this afternoon.”
“Have Serena bring him.” Kyle said matter-of-factly
That was not what she expected to hear.
“What the hell for?”
“I think that we need to get to know each other as father and son.”
“So what does that have to do with Serena bringing him to you?”
Kyle knew that it had nothing to do with it but he was trying to put distance between him and Tess. The less he saw of her the better.
“If your there and something happens or he needs something he is going to go to you. I need him to learn that I’ll be there for him too. I don’t think that can be done with you there.”
“That’s ridiculous.”
“Not the way I see it. You’ve had five years with him, five years of memories. I think I deserve a few hours.” He said trying to make his argument convincing.
“If we weren’t in public I would zap your ass.” She said.
“You know I have a point.” She had to agree to this. He couldn’t be this close to her all the time. It would kill him.
“Fine!! I’ll send Serena but this won’t work Kyle. You can’t avoid me forever.”
With that she turned and ran out of the park.
“I can sure try.” He said as he watched her retreating form.
He grabbed his cell phone and punched in Alex’s number.
A groggy Alex answered the phone.
“I am calling a WHAC meeting.”
“Kyle? It’s 6AM.” Alex said still not fully awake.
“I am calling a WHAC meeting.” He said again.
“What the hell are you talking about?” Alex said as he shook the sleep away.
“We Hate Aliens Club.” Kyle said softly just in case anyone might be able to hear him.
Alex groaned a little. “Is this about Tess?”
“Yes. We made a pact. If anyone called a meeting we would all be there.” Kyle said.
“Ok. I’ll call Liz and Maria and if Liz isn’t on duty will meet here tonight.” Alex said.
“Good.” Kyle said.
“Now I am going to go back to sleep. Who the hell is up this early besides you anyway?”
“You would be surprised. See you tonight.”
Kyle hung up the phone and stretched his ligaments again. His legs ached and he knew he would need to run a few miles and because it was getting later he would need to do it at a normal speed.
It was going to be a long morning.
************^***************************************************
Maria Rolled over and watched a sleeping Michael. It had felt so wonderful to wake up in his arms this morning.
He looked so peaceful sleeping there beside her. This was what she had always wanted. She wanted Michael and she knew he wanted her. Deep down she knew that they could have what she had been dreaming about for the last five years: a family.
Maria was startled from her thoughts by the sound of the phone ringing. She carefully guided herself out of Michael’s embrace so as not to wake him. Grabbing the cordless phone from her dresser she clicked “talk” and went into the hall.
“Hello.” She said.
“Hey Maria. It’s Alex.”
“Hi. What is going on?”
“I just got a call from Kyle. He is calling a WHAC meeting.”
Maria smiled remembering the code they had come up with for their meetings when the Pod squad left.
It had been Liz and Kyle’s idea. Liz had said that they were no long members of the I know an alien club because the aliens were gone and Kyle had quickly come up with the new name of We hate the Alien’s club.
They had laughed about it for quite some time that night and it had been one of the brighter moments of those early days.
“You’re kidding. Is he ok?” She asked concerned for her step brother.
“I think so. Tess returning has thrown him for a loop and add the fact that he just found out he is a father and I think he just really needs to talk.”
“I know I think that Liz could use it too. When I spoke to her yesterday she sounded ok. She said that she wanted to “Live in the Present.” I can understand that but Max wasn’t her high school crush. She loved him with everything she had. She can’t be ok with this.” Maria said the concern for Liz evident in her voice.
“They have lost their reason to hate Maria. They are floundering without it and don’t know how to feel.”
“Well they have to deal with it, especially Kyle. He and Tess have a child together.” Maria added.
“I’ll see you at your place tonight around 7.” Maria said before hanging up.
“Don’t forget the orange soda.”
“Alex I’m insulted. Do I ever forget the Orange Soda?”
“No but we haven’t had one of these meetings in over a year.”
“Don’t worry. I will have it. See you tonight.”
“Bye Maria.”
Maria walked down the spiral staircase that led from the upstairs to the kitchen.
She turned on the coffee pot and the aroma of fresh brewed coffee filled the air.
She poured herself a cup and then placed another one out for Michael.
In a matter of moments a refreshed looking Michael entered the kitchen.
“That didn’t take long.” She said with a smile as she poured him a cup and handed it to him.
“You know I can’t resist the smell of fresh brewed coffee.” He said as he prepared his cup of coffee with a little bit of cream, a splash of Tabasco and 2 sugars.
“Ahh… perfect.” He moaned as he took the first sip.
“That good?” Maria asked.
“You have no idea how much I missed coffee while I was away.”
“Hopefully not as much as you missed me.” She teased.
Michael’s features turned serious.
“Missing coffee was a nuisance. Something I wanted but I could not have. Missing you Maria, was painful.”
“I know the feeling. We may have been light years apart but we must have been feeling the same thing.”
Michael moved toward her. He was afraid that his not telling her about Antar was going to come between them.
“Are we ok Maria? I mean after last night are we ok?”
Maria looked at him. He was so different from the boy she had met in high school yet he was the same. Back then he wanted to be loved but he couldn’t admit that to anyone. He had built up so many walls that most people couldn’t see that, but she could.
Even when he pushed her away, deep down she knew that he cared about her. Michael still had those walls. They might never go away but what was different now was that when she looked at him she could see that he loved her. He wasn’t hiding his love behind a wall.
“I once read a biography of a WWII war bride. It was written by a French woman who met her husband in Europe during the war. She wrote about the things she had to deal with coming to a new country and being in a new marriage. She had wanted to know everything about her new husband but he would never talk about the war. It bothered her. It scared her but she finally came to terms with the fact that he had the right to keep those memories private. She knew that if he could share them with her that he would but he couldn’t and she accepted that.”
Maria looked into Michael’s eyes and for the first time she really understood what the woman had meant. She could love him even if he couldn’t ever tell her about what happened on Antar.
“What I’m trying to say Michael is that if you ever want to talk to me about what happened to you while you were gone I am here for you but if you never are able to I am still here.”
Michael looked at her it was as if he could see into her soul. This was the reason he was able to survive all those years. It was her pure and simple.
He swallowed the lump that had formed in his throat.
“Thank You Maria.”
He walked over to her and she fell into his arms. This is what he wanted, always. He would not allow anything to threaten their happiness.
“I love you Maria. I’ve loved you since that day I kidnapped your car.”
Maria laughed. “and me.” She added.
“I love you too. I don’t care what anyone thinks I just want to be with you.”
“It might be hard for some people to accept.” He said thinking of her friends who had been hurt by his friends.
“I don’t think so. I think Alex and Isabel might be heading in the same direction we are and as for the other four I think that they will make their peace with each other.”
“You really think so?”
Michael was not so confident.
“If nothing else they will be happy for us.”
Michael knew that she was right but he also knew that wouldn’t be enough.
“I’m going to see Liz, Alex and Kyle tonight.”
“You are?” He asked surprised. He had assumed that they would be together tonight.
“I have a WHAC meeting.” She said with a knowing smile.
“What the hell is a WHAC meeting?”
“We Hate Aliens Club.” She said as a huge grin spread across her face.
“You’re kidding right.” He said a bit amused.
“Nope when the “I know an Alien Club” disbanded the WHAC took its place.”
“You belong to the WHAC and you still think things will work out huh?”
“Deep down we are all still friends Michael that will show up at some point.”
“I hope so.” He replied.
“Can you stay with Mikayla tonight?”
“Sure but I have to go back to the house and get some more of my things. Do you mind if I bring her?”
“No, but just make sure your friends keep their emotions in check. I don’t want her to get overwhelmed again.”
“I will. Isabel told me that Alex has been showing her how to put up a block to help her. She was really upset by what happened.”
“That is really nice of her. I know that it wasn’t her fault. There was no way for anyone to know.”
“I’ll let her know that you said that.”
Maria had been doing a lot of thinking about Michael’s living arrangements. Since he had found out about Mikayla he had been spending all his time at her house and had been running back and forth between the pod squads house. It didn’t make sense.
“I think that you should move in.” She finally blurted out.
“What?” He asked surprised.
“I think you should move in. I have plenty of room here and you have been spending most of your time here anyway. I think it makes sense.”
Michael didn’t know what to say. He hadn’t given it much thought. He just assumed that he would keep going back and forth to his house and hers. He would have to think about it but the idea sounded like a good one.
“Let me think about it but I think that it might just work.” He said with a smile.
Maria was ecstatic. She jumped up and kissed him on the lips. I’m going to go take a shower before my mother brings Mikayla back.
“She is going to be so excited if you decide to do this.” She added and then headed up the stairs while Michael finished his coffee.
********************************************************************&*
Serena held Jamie’s hand and walked to Kyle’s front door. She still didn’t understand why she was bringing Jamie and not Tess but Tess hadn’t wanted to talk about it so she had just agreed to do it.
She waited at the door for Kyle to answer. A few moments later he answered dressed in sweats.
“Hey Serena.” He said acknowledging her first. Then he bent down and tussled Jamie’s hair.
“You ready for some fun with your dad?” He asked him.
Jamie smiled and held up the skates that he had in his hand.
“Mommy said I have to wear a helmet and knee pads.” Jamie said.
“There in the car.” Serena added.
“Well mommy is right you should always wear your safety gear. Let me grab my keys and will head to the park”
Kyle ran into the house and quickly returned holding two cups of Dunkin Donuts coffee.
He handed one to Serena.
“I know how much you love this stuff.” He said with a smile.
“Thanks. I truly think I am addicted.” She said accepting the cup. She thought it was sweet that he remembered she liked Dunkin Donuts Coffee.
“I’ve tried the Starbucks but I keep going back to Dunkin Donuts.” She said.
He smiled at her and closed the door. “It’s a nice day I think we should walk to the park.” Kyle suggested.
Kyle’s house wasn’t far from the park. They grabbed the safety gear and started on their way. Along the way Kyle pointed things out to Jamie that had some significance to his childhood.
Serena had wanted to pick Kyle’s brain as to what had transpired between he and Tess but Kyle was so wrapped up in his conversation with his son that she didn’t have it in her to interrupt.
It was quite obvious to Serena that Kyle loved his son very much. When they arrived at the park Serena decided she wasn’t going to hang around and be a third wheel. She knew that Tess wanted her to keep an eye on Jamie so she retreated to a bench with her coffee.
Kyle helped Jamie put on his helmet, safety pads and skates. Jamie was wobbly at first and Kyle helped him gain his balance. He held Jamie’s hands and showed him how to move his feet.
A look of fear crossed Jamie’s face as both his feet began to move at the same time. Kyle held him upright.
“Don’t worry I’ve got you little man.” He said as he balanced Jamie.
“I don’t know if I can so this.” Jamie said.
“Sure you can.” Kyle encouraged.
“It just takes some practice. Try moving your feet one at a time.”
Jamie did as his Father instructed. Slowly Kyle let one of Jamie’s hands go.
Again Jamie became a bit scared. “Don’t worry, just keep your balance.” Kyle encouraged.
Jamie wanted to skate and he wanted to show his Father he could do it. He concentrated very hard on his balance and on his Dad in front of him.
“That’s my boy. You got it. I’m going to drop my other hand ok.”
Jamie looked nervously at his Father.
“It will be ok. I promise.”
Jamie nodded and Kyle let his hand go.
An identical smile appeared on each of their faces as Jamie skated alone for the first time.
“I’m doing it Dad, I’m doing it.”
Tears sprang to Kyle’s eyes. This was their moment. Someone wasn’t going to tell him about when his son learned to skate he was there. It was their memory and the first of many he hoped.
Serena watched the scene from her park bench. She hoped that one day she would find someone who was as sweet and caring as Kyle.
Part 36
Kyle stretched his hamstring in Roswell Central Park. He took a deep breath and savored the cool morning air.
Every year in the off season he came back to Roswell. The other players thought
He was nuts. There were no training facilities in the area and for the life of them they couldn’t fathom why one of their star players would want to spend his off time here.
What they didn’t understand was that Kyle didn’t need the training all he needed was his park.
When Kyle’s powers had first started to manifest themselves in college he would feel the strain of enormous amounts of energy in his legs and it caused him great pain. At first he had no idea what it was and worried that something was wrong. At practice when he would run sprints the tension would alleviate itself but it would return the following day.
When he returned home that spring for break he found himself in this park every morning. The more he ran the less energy and tension there was and boy could he run. Alex clocked him one day and he ran 2 miles in 4 minutes. They looked it up on the internet and found that his running time shattered the world record.
Kyle never allowed himself to run to his full potential in practice or in games. He never wanted to draw undue attention to himself for chance that he might appear on the radar of one of the “Men IN Black” as they had come to refer to them.
No, Kyle never ran to his full potential unless it was here in his park. Just before dawn when the air was cool and crisp and most souls were asleep Kyle came here and released that built up energy and tension. It had increased tenfold since Tess had come back and on this particular morning he was bursting with it.
He ran several times around the park and then returned to the bench where his gear was.
“Impressive.”
The words startled him. He turned quickly to find Tess standing behind him. She was dressed in pink low rise cropped knee pants a tight white t-shirt and a matching pink warm up jacket. Her hair was pulled back in to a tight ponytail which hung at the base of her neck. Her cheeks were tinged pink as if she too had been out in the brisk morning air for a while.
‘God, why does she have to be so damn beautiful?’ He thought to himself.
When he didn’t respond to her she spoke again. “Do you come here every morning?”
“Yeah.” He replied quickly. It was taking all of his concentration to prevent his body from reacting to the sight of her.
“What are you doing here?”
“Same as you I’m out for a run.”
He was here to get away from her and release the energy build up she was causing. Why was she here? Without really thinking about it he voiced what he was thinking.
“Why are you here in my park?”
Tess was surprised that he was so quiet. She had thought that after she had told him about Jamie and the two were finally together as Father and Son things would get better but from Kyle’s reaction here that didn’t seem to be the case.
“Funny because the sign outside didn’t say “Kyle Valenti Park” or even “Dumb ass Park.” So where is your claim to it?”
Kyle stopped the smile that threatened to appear on his lips. Even he had to admit that was a good comeback.
“That’s not what I mean. I come here to get away from everything and just run.”
“So am I the every thing that you’re trying to get away from?”
“No, I don’t know maybe. I mean you have to admit a lot has happened these last few days.”
“Are you not happy that Jamie is your son?”
“What?! No of course I am.”
“Because Kyle, if that is the case tell me know. Do not hurt him.”
“I would never hurt him. I loved him even before I knew he was my son. If you would have even considered the possibility that he was mine I might not have missed out on the first 5 years of his life.”
“That’s not fair”
He couldn’t do this he couldn’t let her get to him. IF he did he would begin to let his true feelings for her surface and he couldn’t do that. He would not allow himself to be hurt like that again.
“You wanted it to be Max’s. That’s all you ever wanted was Max and his child.”
Tess was angry. How could he deny what they had shared? Their love had created the most beautiful and precious thing; their son.
“That is not true and you know it Kyle Valenti! You can stand here and throw this crap at me all you want but you know how I felt about you, how I still feel about you. I will not let you deny what we had just so that you can continue to hide behind your anger.”
Tess was angry and her eyes were blazing. She was waving her hands in the air and pointing at him and all he wanted to do at that moment was kiss her. The more she yelled the more he wanted to do it. This was dangerous. He was losing control. He needed distance.
“I’m supposed to see Jamie this afternoon.”
“What?” Her head snapped around and her blazing eyes met his. Did he not just hear anything she said?
“Jamie our son, I am supposed to see him today.”
“Yes, I was going to bring him by this afternoon.”
“Have Serena bring him.” Kyle said matter-of-factly
That was not what she expected to hear.
“What the hell for?”
“I think that we need to get to know each other as father and son.”
“So what does that have to do with Serena bringing him to you?”
Kyle knew that it had nothing to do with it but he was trying to put distance between him and Tess. The less he saw of her the better.
“If your there and something happens or he needs something he is going to go to you. I need him to learn that I’ll be there for him too. I don’t think that can be done with you there.”
“That’s ridiculous.”
“Not the way I see it. You’ve had five years with him, five years of memories. I think I deserve a few hours.” He said trying to make his argument convincing.
“If we weren’t in public I would zap your ass.” She said.
“You know I have a point.” She had to agree to this. He couldn’t be this close to her all the time. It would kill him.
“Fine!! I’ll send Serena but this won’t work Kyle. You can’t avoid me forever.”
With that she turned and ran out of the park.
“I can sure try.” He said as he watched her retreating form.
He grabbed his cell phone and punched in Alex’s number.
A groggy Alex answered the phone.
“I am calling a WHAC meeting.”
“Kyle? It’s 6AM.” Alex said still not fully awake.
“I am calling a WHAC meeting.” He said again.
“What the hell are you talking about?” Alex said as he shook the sleep away.
“We Hate Aliens Club.” Kyle said softly just in case anyone might be able to hear him.
Alex groaned a little. “Is this about Tess?”
“Yes. We made a pact. If anyone called a meeting we would all be there.” Kyle said.
“Ok. I’ll call Liz and Maria and if Liz isn’t on duty will meet here tonight.” Alex said.
“Good.” Kyle said.
“Now I am going to go back to sleep. Who the hell is up this early besides you anyway?”
“You would be surprised. See you tonight.”
Kyle hung up the phone and stretched his ligaments again. His legs ached and he knew he would need to run a few miles and because it was getting later he would need to do it at a normal speed.
It was going to be a long morning.
************^***************************************************
Maria Rolled over and watched a sleeping Michael. It had felt so wonderful to wake up in his arms this morning.
He looked so peaceful sleeping there beside her. This was what she had always wanted. She wanted Michael and she knew he wanted her. Deep down she knew that they could have what she had been dreaming about for the last five years: a family.
Maria was startled from her thoughts by the sound of the phone ringing. She carefully guided herself out of Michael’s embrace so as not to wake him. Grabbing the cordless phone from her dresser she clicked “talk” and went into the hall.
“Hello.” She said.
“Hey Maria. It’s Alex.”
“Hi. What is going on?”
“I just got a call from Kyle. He is calling a WHAC meeting.”
Maria smiled remembering the code they had come up with for their meetings when the Pod squad left.
It had been Liz and Kyle’s idea. Liz had said that they were no long members of the I know an alien club because the aliens were gone and Kyle had quickly come up with the new name of We hate the Alien’s club.
They had laughed about it for quite some time that night and it had been one of the brighter moments of those early days.
“You’re kidding. Is he ok?” She asked concerned for her step brother.
“I think so. Tess returning has thrown him for a loop and add the fact that he just found out he is a father and I think he just really needs to talk.”
“I know I think that Liz could use it too. When I spoke to her yesterday she sounded ok. She said that she wanted to “Live in the Present.” I can understand that but Max wasn’t her high school crush. She loved him with everything she had. She can’t be ok with this.” Maria said the concern for Liz evident in her voice.
“They have lost their reason to hate Maria. They are floundering without it and don’t know how to feel.”
“Well they have to deal with it, especially Kyle. He and Tess have a child together.” Maria added.
“I’ll see you at your place tonight around 7.” Maria said before hanging up.
“Don’t forget the orange soda.”
“Alex I’m insulted. Do I ever forget the Orange Soda?”
“No but we haven’t had one of these meetings in over a year.”
“Don’t worry. I will have it. See you tonight.”
“Bye Maria.”
Maria walked down the spiral staircase that led from the upstairs to the kitchen.
She turned on the coffee pot and the aroma of fresh brewed coffee filled the air.
She poured herself a cup and then placed another one out for Michael.
In a matter of moments a refreshed looking Michael entered the kitchen.
“That didn’t take long.” She said with a smile as she poured him a cup and handed it to him.
“You know I can’t resist the smell of fresh brewed coffee.” He said as he prepared his cup of coffee with a little bit of cream, a splash of Tabasco and 2 sugars.
“Ahh… perfect.” He moaned as he took the first sip.
“That good?” Maria asked.
“You have no idea how much I missed coffee while I was away.”
“Hopefully not as much as you missed me.” She teased.
Michael’s features turned serious.
“Missing coffee was a nuisance. Something I wanted but I could not have. Missing you Maria, was painful.”
“I know the feeling. We may have been light years apart but we must have been feeling the same thing.”
Michael moved toward her. He was afraid that his not telling her about Antar was going to come between them.
“Are we ok Maria? I mean after last night are we ok?”
Maria looked at him. He was so different from the boy she had met in high school yet he was the same. Back then he wanted to be loved but he couldn’t admit that to anyone. He had built up so many walls that most people couldn’t see that, but she could.
Even when he pushed her away, deep down she knew that he cared about her. Michael still had those walls. They might never go away but what was different now was that when she looked at him she could see that he loved her. He wasn’t hiding his love behind a wall.
“I once read a biography of a WWII war bride. It was written by a French woman who met her husband in Europe during the war. She wrote about the things she had to deal with coming to a new country and being in a new marriage. She had wanted to know everything about her new husband but he would never talk about the war. It bothered her. It scared her but she finally came to terms with the fact that he had the right to keep those memories private. She knew that if he could share them with her that he would but he couldn’t and she accepted that.”
Maria looked into Michael’s eyes and for the first time she really understood what the woman had meant. She could love him even if he couldn’t ever tell her about what happened on Antar.
“What I’m trying to say Michael is that if you ever want to talk to me about what happened to you while you were gone I am here for you but if you never are able to I am still here.”
Michael looked at her it was as if he could see into her soul. This was the reason he was able to survive all those years. It was her pure and simple.
He swallowed the lump that had formed in his throat.
“Thank You Maria.”
He walked over to her and she fell into his arms. This is what he wanted, always. He would not allow anything to threaten their happiness.
“I love you Maria. I’ve loved you since that day I kidnapped your car.”
Maria laughed. “and me.” She added.
“I love you too. I don’t care what anyone thinks I just want to be with you.”
“It might be hard for some people to accept.” He said thinking of her friends who had been hurt by his friends.
“I don’t think so. I think Alex and Isabel might be heading in the same direction we are and as for the other four I think that they will make their peace with each other.”
“You really think so?”
Michael was not so confident.
“If nothing else they will be happy for us.”
Michael knew that she was right but he also knew that wouldn’t be enough.
“I’m going to see Liz, Alex and Kyle tonight.”
“You are?” He asked surprised. He had assumed that they would be together tonight.
“I have a WHAC meeting.” She said with a knowing smile.
“What the hell is a WHAC meeting?”
“We Hate Aliens Club.” She said as a huge grin spread across her face.
“You’re kidding right.” He said a bit amused.
“Nope when the “I know an Alien Club” disbanded the WHAC took its place.”
“You belong to the WHAC and you still think things will work out huh?”
“Deep down we are all still friends Michael that will show up at some point.”
“I hope so.” He replied.
“Can you stay with Mikayla tonight?”
“Sure but I have to go back to the house and get some more of my things. Do you mind if I bring her?”
“No, but just make sure your friends keep their emotions in check. I don’t want her to get overwhelmed again.”
“I will. Isabel told me that Alex has been showing her how to put up a block to help her. She was really upset by what happened.”
“That is really nice of her. I know that it wasn’t her fault. There was no way for anyone to know.”
“I’ll let her know that you said that.”
Maria had been doing a lot of thinking about Michael’s living arrangements. Since he had found out about Mikayla he had been spending all his time at her house and had been running back and forth between the pod squads house. It didn’t make sense.
“I think that you should move in.” She finally blurted out.
“What?” He asked surprised.
“I think you should move in. I have plenty of room here and you have been spending most of your time here anyway. I think it makes sense.”
Michael didn’t know what to say. He hadn’t given it much thought. He just assumed that he would keep going back and forth to his house and hers. He would have to think about it but the idea sounded like a good one.
“Let me think about it but I think that it might just work.” He said with a smile.
Maria was ecstatic. She jumped up and kissed him on the lips. I’m going to go take a shower before my mother brings Mikayla back.
“She is going to be so excited if you decide to do this.” She added and then headed up the stairs while Michael finished his coffee.
********************************************************************&*
Serena held Jamie’s hand and walked to Kyle’s front door. She still didn’t understand why she was bringing Jamie and not Tess but Tess hadn’t wanted to talk about it so she had just agreed to do it.
She waited at the door for Kyle to answer. A few moments later he answered dressed in sweats.
“Hey Serena.” He said acknowledging her first. Then he bent down and tussled Jamie’s hair.
“You ready for some fun with your dad?” He asked him.
Jamie smiled and held up the skates that he had in his hand.
“Mommy said I have to wear a helmet and knee pads.” Jamie said.
“There in the car.” Serena added.
“Well mommy is right you should always wear your safety gear. Let me grab my keys and will head to the park”
Kyle ran into the house and quickly returned holding two cups of Dunkin Donuts coffee.
He handed one to Serena.
“I know how much you love this stuff.” He said with a smile.
“Thanks. I truly think I am addicted.” She said accepting the cup. She thought it was sweet that he remembered she liked Dunkin Donuts Coffee.
“I’ve tried the Starbucks but I keep going back to Dunkin Donuts.” She said.
He smiled at her and closed the door. “It’s a nice day I think we should walk to the park.” Kyle suggested.
Kyle’s house wasn’t far from the park. They grabbed the safety gear and started on their way. Along the way Kyle pointed things out to Jamie that had some significance to his childhood.
Serena had wanted to pick Kyle’s brain as to what had transpired between he and Tess but Kyle was so wrapped up in his conversation with his son that she didn’t have it in her to interrupt.
It was quite obvious to Serena that Kyle loved his son very much. When they arrived at the park Serena decided she wasn’t going to hang around and be a third wheel. She knew that Tess wanted her to keep an eye on Jamie so she retreated to a bench with her coffee.
Kyle helped Jamie put on his helmet, safety pads and skates. Jamie was wobbly at first and Kyle helped him gain his balance. He held Jamie’s hands and showed him how to move his feet.
A look of fear crossed Jamie’s face as both his feet began to move at the same time. Kyle held him upright.
“Don’t worry I’ve got you little man.” He said as he balanced Jamie.
“I don’t know if I can so this.” Jamie said.
“Sure you can.” Kyle encouraged.
“It just takes some practice. Try moving your feet one at a time.”
Jamie did as his Father instructed. Slowly Kyle let one of Jamie’s hands go.
Again Jamie became a bit scared. “Don’t worry, just keep your balance.” Kyle encouraged.
Jamie wanted to skate and he wanted to show his Father he could do it. He concentrated very hard on his balance and on his Dad in front of him.
“That’s my boy. You got it. I’m going to drop my other hand ok.”
Jamie looked nervously at his Father.
“It will be ok. I promise.”
Jamie nodded and Kyle let his hand go.
An identical smile appeared on each of their faces as Jamie skated alone for the first time.
“I’m doing it Dad, I’m doing it.”
Tears sprang to Kyle’s eyes. This was their moment. Someone wasn’t going to tell him about when his son learned to skate he was there. It was their memory and the first of many he hoped.
Serena watched the scene from her park bench. She hoped that one day she would find someone who was as sweet and caring as Kyle.
Thank You for all of the bumps and for voting this fic as Runner-up as best CC Fic. I know you have been waiting for this. M/L action follows. 
Part 37
Liz walked towards Ryan’s office. She had to break their date for the night. Maria had called and explained that Kyle was calling an emergency WHAC meeting.
She couldn’t say that she was surprised. After all that had come out in the last few days she was surprised it hadn’t come sooner. The arrival of the Pod Squad back in Roswell had turned every ones world upside down.
Liz was determined not to let it change anything about her life. It was in the past. She was very happy with her life now. Why should this change anything? She wasn’t naïve enough to believe that it would be easy. It was obvious that Maria was going to resume her relationship with Michael.
Liz couldn’t really blame her. In what turned out to be one of the strangest twists in their alien saga it was Michael who had chosen his human side. It was Michael who chose Maria. He was willing to give up his past for her. They had a beautiful child together.
Liz also knew that Alex’s feelings for Isabel were still as strong as they were five years ago and while she knew that they would move more slowly, she also knew that they would end up together.
That left her and Kyle. She really felt for Kyle. Of the two of them at least she had Ryan to help heal the wound that had been ripped open. Kyle had no one but the three of them and she swore that she would be there for him.
Liz walked into his office and greeted his secretary.
“Hi Mabel.”
“Hello Dr. Parker.” Mabel said with a smile.
She was in her late sixties with jet black hair and porcelain skin. Liz had always imagined that she must have been quite the beauty in her younger days.
“Is he in?” She asked making a gesture toward the closed office door.
“He is in with Dr Evans.” She said.
“Max?” Liz asked surprised.
What on earth could they be talking about? She thought.
“How long have they been in there?”
“About a half hour.
Liz swallowed the small lump that formed in her throat.
“Are you ok?” Mabel asked when she noticed the change in Liz’s demeanor.
Liz recovered quickly and smiled at Mabel. She was always looking out for her.
“I’m fine. I am just a little tired and rundown.”
“You need to take better care of yourself, Liz”
“I know Mabel. It’s a stressful time of year.”
“Well the holidays are over. You should get Ryan to take you on a Vacation. An Island in the Caribbean, a drink with an umbrella in it, that sounds like medicine to me.”
“You always have the best ideas.” Liz said with a smile.
Liz was about to tell Mabel what her idea of the perfect vacation was when the door to Ryan’s office opened.
“Glad to have you on board Max.” Ryan said shaking his hand.
“Thank You for giving me the opportunity. You won’t be sorry.”
Ryan looked up and noticed Liz. He gave her a huge smile.
“I didn’t forget a lunch date did I?” He said walking toward her and placing a kiss on her lips.
Max watched the whole thing and tried to prevent the frown from forming on his face. He didn’t think he would ever get used to seeing Liz kissed by another man.
“No, I just needed to talk to you about tonight.” She said.
“Hello Liz.” Max said.
He struggled not to make eye contact with her. This was the way she wanted it. He would give her space but that didn’t mean he was giving up on her.
Before she had a chance to respond he continued.
“I better get back to my rounds. Thank you again for giving me this opportunity.” He said to Ryan.
“Bye Mabel.” Max said with a smile as he left.
“You come back and visit me.” She responded.
“I will.” Max responded.
“What a nice young man.” Mabel said after he was gone.
“And quiet the Doctor also. He was the only resident on call that realized that Tommy Peterson was in insulin shock.”
“It’s a good thing he was there. I have to head down to the Chiefs office to drop off these forms.” Mabel said before she exited.
“Take your time.” Ryan said.
Liz knew the Peterson family. Emily Peterson had worked as a waitress at the Crashdown when she was in Middle School and had always been kind to her. Her son Tommy was 7 years old.
“Tommy Peterson was brought in? Is he ok?”
“Yes thanks to Max. He was at school and started feeling Dizzy. He was sweating and had blurry vision. They brought him right over but no one could find his file and his parents weren’t here yet. All the other residents were concerned about was whether or not this would be a surgical case. Max was the only one who took the time to ask the right questions. He may have saved his life.”
“Well thank God he was there.”
“I was so impressed I asked him to work on the Juvenile Diabetes Research Program.”
“Really?” Liz asked.
Ryan smiled at her shocked expression.
“Really. Why are you so surprised?” He asked
“I’m not. It’s just that project is your baby. You are very particular about who you let work on it. You hardly know Max.”
“I know but I have been impressed by what I’ve seen. You know him. Do you think I made a mistake?”
Liz thought about it. If Max worked on this project she wouldn’t be able to avoid him. She could tell Ryan that she didn’t think he was a good fit. But that wouldn’t be right. She had worked with Max before and he would probably bring a lot to the research. Her feelings were not as important as helping all of those kids.
“No. I was just surprised that you asked him without knowing much about him.”
“You seem to trust him and I trust you.” He said kissing the tip of her nose.
She smiled.
“Max suggested that you show him the ropes.” Ryan said.
“I’ll bet he did.” Liz mumbled under her breath.
“What was that?” Ryan asked.
“Oh, nothing. I’ll give him everything he needs to know.”
“Are you ok? You seem like something is bothering you.” He said sensing the change in her mood.
“I’m fine. I just have to cancel on you tonight. Kyle really needs us and we are getting together at Alex’s.
“Poor guy, I can’t believe he just found out he’s a Dad”
“I’m really sorry…”
Ryan placed his finger over her lip.
“I know you four made a pact to always be there for each other. I respect that.” He said kissing her on the forehead.
“How did I get so lucky?” Liz said leaning into him.
“You must have done something good sometime.” He said with a smirk.
She gave him a playful shove.
“Come on you know I’m he lucky one. I have the most beautiful, smart, talented amazing woman in my life.”
“Flattery will get you everywhere.” She said.
She reached up and captured his lips with her own. The kiss was soft sensuous and sweet.
“Now don’t go kissing me like that I might not let you go tonight.”
She laughed. “Maybe if I don’t get home to late you could swing by.”
“That sounds like a plan.”
Liz’s beeper went off. She looked at it and sighed.
“I’ve got to get going.”
“I’m going to grab some lunch from the cafeteria.”
She gave him a kiss and was on her way.
***********************************&****************************
Serena spent her remaining time at the park just taking in her surroundings. Kyle and Jamie had gone for a walk to the toy store and she was just taking it all in.
Earth was a beautiful place.
As she watched the young children play she felt a little sad that she hadn’t been able to grow up here. She knew that was the way that her parents had wanted it but her father had obligations and they had needed to stay on Antar.
“Excuse me but do you mind if I share this park bench with you.”
Serena was startled from her thoughts by a tall man wearing a shirt, tie and a baseball cap. She thought the combination was strange but what did she know she had grown up on another planet.
“I’m sorry.” Serena said and scooted over.
“Nothing to be sorry for. Thanks for sharing. The park can get pretty crowded at lunch time.”
“No problem.”
He was right since Kyle and Jamie had gone for their walk there had been more and more people filtering into the park.”
“It is a beautiful day.” He said trying to make small talk.
“I love the feel of the sun on my face.” She responded.
“I wish I could do that but I tend to burn very easily in the sun and I always forget the sunscreen. That’s why I am wearing the cap.” He said with a smile.
Serena thought he had a really nice smile, similar to Kyle’s in a way.
“I guess I am lucky than.” She said.
He opened up his bag and pulled out a sandwich wrapped in tinfoil. When he opened the foil steam escaped mingling in the cool air.
“This is my favorite lunch, grilled cheese and tomato.”
Serena scrunched up her nose.
“Did you ever have it before?” He asked noticing her expression.
“No.” She answered honestly.
“Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it then.”
“Would you like some?” He asked.
Before she could respond her cell phone rang. She looked at the number. It was Kyle. For some reason she smiled.
“I’m sorry. I have to take this.”
“Hello.” She said in to the phone.
“Hey, Serena its Kyle. Could you meet me and Jamie at the toy store?”
“Sure I’ll be there in a few minutes.”
She closed her phone.
“Have a nice lunch.” She said to her bench companion.
“Thanks for sharing.” He said with a wink.
0*******************************************************************
Liz was not happy as she headed towards her patient’s room.
Why couldn’t Max just leave her alone? She was at this hospital first. He should find someplace else to do his residency.
As she approached the room she heard her patient Maryanne Glaton laughing.
“Even if you have to stick me, poke me and prod me at least you’re nice to look at.” She heard her say.
When she walked in she was surprised to find Max taking her vitals. She frowned.
“Dr. Evans.” Liz said.
“Dr. Parker.” Max replied as he continued to take her vitals.
“Hello Dr. Parker. Look I got a cutie today.”
She smiled at her and then turned a scowl to Max.
“Is there a reason you are examining my patient?” She said.
“Her blood pressure was elevated”
“I know that. I received the page. That doesn’t explain why you are here.”
“Well you were someplace else and I was here so one of the nurses asked me to check on her.” He said meeting her eyes.
“Are you trying to imply something Doctor?” She said moving closer to him.
“I’m just doing my job.”
“Well I am here now.” She said pointedly.
“Yes, you are.”
He finished listening to her heart. “Everything looks good Mrs. Glaton.”
“It must have been seeing you that made my blood pressure soar.” She said with a smile.
Liz rolled her eyes.
“I’ll leave you in the very capable hands of Dr. Parker.”
“Liz.” He nodded to her and then left the room.
Mrs. Glaton watched Liz’s eyes follow Max out the door.
“Well you could cut the sexual tension in here with a knife.”
“Excuse me?” Liz said as she walked over and began to check her vitals for herself.
“You and Dr Evans.”
“You don’t know what you’re talking about. I have a boyfriend.”
“That doesn’t mean your dead girl. And who could blame you that is one fine specimen of a man.”
“If you like that type.” She said as she took her pulse.
“Who doesn’t like tall dark, handsome and hot!” Mrs. Galton replied.
“Calm down.” Liz said and then began to retake her blood pressure.
“My boyfriend and I are very happy and he’s pretty hot himself.” She said smiling.
“Dr. Evans was right. Everything appears to be fine now.”
“Are you sure you’re not into Dr. Evans? I am usually very good at sensing these things.”
“Have a Nice Day Mrs. Galton.” Liz said as she put back her chart.
“I didn’t here you say no.” Mrs. Galton yelled after her.
*)*****************************************************************
Liz spotted him at the nurse’s station taking to Betty Ann the head nurse on the floor.
“I want to have him on 12 ounces of fluid every three hours.” He said as he made some notations.
“Sure, that is no problem Dr. Evans.” She said with a smile.
Liz watched their interaction.
“Is there anything else I can get you?” She said.
‘Why don’t you just throw yourself at him naked?’ Liz thought to herself.
Since when was Max such a big flirt?
“No that’s it for now Betty.”
Uh, he was so infuriating.
“Hi, Dr. Parker.” Betty Ann said.
“How is Mrs. Galton?” She added.
“Fine. I want to up her blood pressure meds by 10 milligrams.”
“Ok. It is time for her meds now.” She responded.
“Thank You.”
Betty Ann looked over her shoulder and gave Max a big smile. “Bye Dr. Evans.”
“See you later Betty Ann.”
‘See you later? See you later?’ Liz thought. ‘What the hell did that mean?’
“What the hell was that all about?” Liz asked him once Betty Ann was gone.
“Nothing I was just telling the Nurse to up Mr. Lewston’s fluids.”
“Not that.” She said frustrated.
“Why were you examining my patient?”
“I told you. You were not around and one of the nurses asked me to look in on her.”
“I’ll bet it was Betty Ann.”
“Why, would you say that?”
“It was quiet obvious you were flittering with her.”
“I was not.” He responded.
“Oh please she was practically throwing herself at you.”
“Jealous?” He said with a smirk.
That just irritated her more.
She scoffed at him.
“No actually I’m glad she has someone new to move on to. She has had her eyes set on Ryan for months. However I would appreciate it if you wouldn’t use your flirting to interfere with my patients.”
“The fact remains Liz that had you been here and not with your boyfriend I wouldn’t have been needed.”
“Are you implying that my relationship is getting in the way of me being a good Doctor?”
“If the shoe fits.”
Liz poked him with her finger.
“You have a lot of nerve. As soon as I got that page I was here. You should be worried about yourself, flirting with patients and nurses.”
“You are so jealous.” Max said with a smile.
“I am not.” She yelled back.
Their conversation had started to garner a little attention as it became a little louder.
Ryan exited the elevator nearest the nurse’s station and happened upon them.
“I can’t believe you. You said you would let it go.”
“I’m only stating the obvious and I only promised to give you space.”
“You can’t leave well enough alone.”
“Is everything all right?” He asked concerned.
Liz whipped her head around when she heard his voice. Her eyes met his.
Ryan was concerned by her appearance. “Liz are you ok?”
“I’m fine.” She said quickly.
“Sorry, Dr. Carmichael we were just disagreeing on a patients treatment. Things can get really hot between Liz and I…
“…When we disagree.” He added slowly.
Liz’s head swung around. Her mouth was slightly a jar. She could not believe that he had just said that.
Max smiled. He was getting to her. She stood there just staring at him. He felt bad for her so he decided to add something to get her off the hook.
“Remember that time we disagreed about how much sulfur to use in our experiment in Chem class. We had detention for a week.”
Liz still couldn’t believe it, but he was giving her a way out so she took it.
“Right but if I remember correctly I was right.” She said.
“That you were.”
“Listen that may be the case, but if you are going to disagree please do it in private.”
“I promise if things get hot again we will take into a more private area.” Max responded.
“I have rounds I need to finish if I ever want to get out of here.” Liz said suddenly.
“Me too. I have plans.” Max said knowing it would bother her.
He got his confirmation when she shot him a glare.
“I’ll see you tonight Ryan. Just let yourself in.”
Two could play at this game.
They both took off in separate direction leaving Ryan to wonder what the hell had just happened.
If he had only listened a little harder he would have heard Mrs. Galton in room 412 say: “I am always right about these things: sexual tension.”
Part 37
Liz walked towards Ryan’s office. She had to break their date for the night. Maria had called and explained that Kyle was calling an emergency WHAC meeting.
She couldn’t say that she was surprised. After all that had come out in the last few days she was surprised it hadn’t come sooner. The arrival of the Pod Squad back in Roswell had turned every ones world upside down.
Liz was determined not to let it change anything about her life. It was in the past. She was very happy with her life now. Why should this change anything? She wasn’t naïve enough to believe that it would be easy. It was obvious that Maria was going to resume her relationship with Michael.
Liz couldn’t really blame her. In what turned out to be one of the strangest twists in their alien saga it was Michael who had chosen his human side. It was Michael who chose Maria. He was willing to give up his past for her. They had a beautiful child together.
Liz also knew that Alex’s feelings for Isabel were still as strong as they were five years ago and while she knew that they would move more slowly, she also knew that they would end up together.
That left her and Kyle. She really felt for Kyle. Of the two of them at least she had Ryan to help heal the wound that had been ripped open. Kyle had no one but the three of them and she swore that she would be there for him.
Liz walked into his office and greeted his secretary.
“Hi Mabel.”
“Hello Dr. Parker.” Mabel said with a smile.
She was in her late sixties with jet black hair and porcelain skin. Liz had always imagined that she must have been quite the beauty in her younger days.
“Is he in?” She asked making a gesture toward the closed office door.
“He is in with Dr Evans.” She said.
“Max?” Liz asked surprised.
What on earth could they be talking about? She thought.
“How long have they been in there?”
“About a half hour.
Liz swallowed the small lump that formed in her throat.
“Are you ok?” Mabel asked when she noticed the change in Liz’s demeanor.
Liz recovered quickly and smiled at Mabel. She was always looking out for her.
“I’m fine. I am just a little tired and rundown.”
“You need to take better care of yourself, Liz”
“I know Mabel. It’s a stressful time of year.”
“Well the holidays are over. You should get Ryan to take you on a Vacation. An Island in the Caribbean, a drink with an umbrella in it, that sounds like medicine to me.”
“You always have the best ideas.” Liz said with a smile.
Liz was about to tell Mabel what her idea of the perfect vacation was when the door to Ryan’s office opened.
“Glad to have you on board Max.” Ryan said shaking his hand.
“Thank You for giving me the opportunity. You won’t be sorry.”
Ryan looked up and noticed Liz. He gave her a huge smile.
“I didn’t forget a lunch date did I?” He said walking toward her and placing a kiss on her lips.
Max watched the whole thing and tried to prevent the frown from forming on his face. He didn’t think he would ever get used to seeing Liz kissed by another man.
“No, I just needed to talk to you about tonight.” She said.
“Hello Liz.” Max said.
He struggled not to make eye contact with her. This was the way she wanted it. He would give her space but that didn’t mean he was giving up on her.
Before she had a chance to respond he continued.
“I better get back to my rounds. Thank you again for giving me this opportunity.” He said to Ryan.
“Bye Mabel.” Max said with a smile as he left.
“You come back and visit me.” She responded.
“I will.” Max responded.
“What a nice young man.” Mabel said after he was gone.
“And quiet the Doctor also. He was the only resident on call that realized that Tommy Peterson was in insulin shock.”
“It’s a good thing he was there. I have to head down to the Chiefs office to drop off these forms.” Mabel said before she exited.
“Take your time.” Ryan said.
Liz knew the Peterson family. Emily Peterson had worked as a waitress at the Crashdown when she was in Middle School and had always been kind to her. Her son Tommy was 7 years old.
“Tommy Peterson was brought in? Is he ok?”
“Yes thanks to Max. He was at school and started feeling Dizzy. He was sweating and had blurry vision. They brought him right over but no one could find his file and his parents weren’t here yet. All the other residents were concerned about was whether or not this would be a surgical case. Max was the only one who took the time to ask the right questions. He may have saved his life.”
“Well thank God he was there.”
“I was so impressed I asked him to work on the Juvenile Diabetes Research Program.”
“Really?” Liz asked.
Ryan smiled at her shocked expression.
“Really. Why are you so surprised?” He asked
“I’m not. It’s just that project is your baby. You are very particular about who you let work on it. You hardly know Max.”
“I know but I have been impressed by what I’ve seen. You know him. Do you think I made a mistake?”
Liz thought about it. If Max worked on this project she wouldn’t be able to avoid him. She could tell Ryan that she didn’t think he was a good fit. But that wouldn’t be right. She had worked with Max before and he would probably bring a lot to the research. Her feelings were not as important as helping all of those kids.
“No. I was just surprised that you asked him without knowing much about him.”
“You seem to trust him and I trust you.” He said kissing the tip of her nose.
She smiled.
“Max suggested that you show him the ropes.” Ryan said.
“I’ll bet he did.” Liz mumbled under her breath.
“What was that?” Ryan asked.
“Oh, nothing. I’ll give him everything he needs to know.”
“Are you ok? You seem like something is bothering you.” He said sensing the change in her mood.
“I’m fine. I just have to cancel on you tonight. Kyle really needs us and we are getting together at Alex’s.
“Poor guy, I can’t believe he just found out he’s a Dad”
“I’m really sorry…”
Ryan placed his finger over her lip.
“I know you four made a pact to always be there for each other. I respect that.” He said kissing her on the forehead.
“How did I get so lucky?” Liz said leaning into him.
“You must have done something good sometime.” He said with a smirk.
She gave him a playful shove.
“Come on you know I’m he lucky one. I have the most beautiful, smart, talented amazing woman in my life.”
“Flattery will get you everywhere.” She said.
She reached up and captured his lips with her own. The kiss was soft sensuous and sweet.
“Now don’t go kissing me like that I might not let you go tonight.”
She laughed. “Maybe if I don’t get home to late you could swing by.”
“That sounds like a plan.”
Liz’s beeper went off. She looked at it and sighed.
“I’ve got to get going.”
“I’m going to grab some lunch from the cafeteria.”
She gave him a kiss and was on her way.
***********************************&****************************
Serena spent her remaining time at the park just taking in her surroundings. Kyle and Jamie had gone for a walk to the toy store and she was just taking it all in.
Earth was a beautiful place.
As she watched the young children play she felt a little sad that she hadn’t been able to grow up here. She knew that was the way that her parents had wanted it but her father had obligations and they had needed to stay on Antar.
“Excuse me but do you mind if I share this park bench with you.”
Serena was startled from her thoughts by a tall man wearing a shirt, tie and a baseball cap. She thought the combination was strange but what did she know she had grown up on another planet.
“I’m sorry.” Serena said and scooted over.
“Nothing to be sorry for. Thanks for sharing. The park can get pretty crowded at lunch time.”
“No problem.”
He was right since Kyle and Jamie had gone for their walk there had been more and more people filtering into the park.”
“It is a beautiful day.” He said trying to make small talk.
“I love the feel of the sun on my face.” She responded.
“I wish I could do that but I tend to burn very easily in the sun and I always forget the sunscreen. That’s why I am wearing the cap.” He said with a smile.
Serena thought he had a really nice smile, similar to Kyle’s in a way.
“I guess I am lucky than.” She said.
He opened up his bag and pulled out a sandwich wrapped in tinfoil. When he opened the foil steam escaped mingling in the cool air.
“This is my favorite lunch, grilled cheese and tomato.”
Serena scrunched up her nose.
“Did you ever have it before?” He asked noticing her expression.
“No.” She answered honestly.
“Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it then.”
“Would you like some?” He asked.
Before she could respond her cell phone rang. She looked at the number. It was Kyle. For some reason she smiled.
“I’m sorry. I have to take this.”
“Hello.” She said in to the phone.
“Hey, Serena its Kyle. Could you meet me and Jamie at the toy store?”
“Sure I’ll be there in a few minutes.”
She closed her phone.
“Have a nice lunch.” She said to her bench companion.
“Thanks for sharing.” He said with a wink.
0*******************************************************************
Liz was not happy as she headed towards her patient’s room.
Why couldn’t Max just leave her alone? She was at this hospital first. He should find someplace else to do his residency.
As she approached the room she heard her patient Maryanne Glaton laughing.
“Even if you have to stick me, poke me and prod me at least you’re nice to look at.” She heard her say.
When she walked in she was surprised to find Max taking her vitals. She frowned.
“Dr. Evans.” Liz said.
“Dr. Parker.” Max replied as he continued to take her vitals.
“Hello Dr. Parker. Look I got a cutie today.”
She smiled at her and then turned a scowl to Max.
“Is there a reason you are examining my patient?” She said.
“Her blood pressure was elevated”
“I know that. I received the page. That doesn’t explain why you are here.”
“Well you were someplace else and I was here so one of the nurses asked me to check on her.” He said meeting her eyes.
“Are you trying to imply something Doctor?” She said moving closer to him.
“I’m just doing my job.”
“Well I am here now.” She said pointedly.
“Yes, you are.”
He finished listening to her heart. “Everything looks good Mrs. Glaton.”
“It must have been seeing you that made my blood pressure soar.” She said with a smile.
Liz rolled her eyes.
“I’ll leave you in the very capable hands of Dr. Parker.”
“Liz.” He nodded to her and then left the room.
Mrs. Glaton watched Liz’s eyes follow Max out the door.
“Well you could cut the sexual tension in here with a knife.”
“Excuse me?” Liz said as she walked over and began to check her vitals for herself.
“You and Dr Evans.”
“You don’t know what you’re talking about. I have a boyfriend.”
“That doesn’t mean your dead girl. And who could blame you that is one fine specimen of a man.”
“If you like that type.” She said as she took her pulse.
“Who doesn’t like tall dark, handsome and hot!” Mrs. Galton replied.
“Calm down.” Liz said and then began to retake her blood pressure.
“My boyfriend and I are very happy and he’s pretty hot himself.” She said smiling.
“Dr. Evans was right. Everything appears to be fine now.”
“Are you sure you’re not into Dr. Evans? I am usually very good at sensing these things.”
“Have a Nice Day Mrs. Galton.” Liz said as she put back her chart.
“I didn’t here you say no.” Mrs. Galton yelled after her.
*)*****************************************************************
Liz spotted him at the nurse’s station taking to Betty Ann the head nurse on the floor.
“I want to have him on 12 ounces of fluid every three hours.” He said as he made some notations.
“Sure, that is no problem Dr. Evans.” She said with a smile.
Liz watched their interaction.
“Is there anything else I can get you?” She said.
‘Why don’t you just throw yourself at him naked?’ Liz thought to herself.
Since when was Max such a big flirt?
“No that’s it for now Betty.”
Uh, he was so infuriating.
“Hi, Dr. Parker.” Betty Ann said.
“How is Mrs. Galton?” She added.
“Fine. I want to up her blood pressure meds by 10 milligrams.”
“Ok. It is time for her meds now.” She responded.
“Thank You.”
Betty Ann looked over her shoulder and gave Max a big smile. “Bye Dr. Evans.”
“See you later Betty Ann.”
‘See you later? See you later?’ Liz thought. ‘What the hell did that mean?’
“What the hell was that all about?” Liz asked him once Betty Ann was gone.
“Nothing I was just telling the Nurse to up Mr. Lewston’s fluids.”
“Not that.” She said frustrated.
“Why were you examining my patient?”
“I told you. You were not around and one of the nurses asked me to look in on her.”
“I’ll bet it was Betty Ann.”
“Why, would you say that?”
“It was quiet obvious you were flittering with her.”
“I was not.” He responded.
“Oh please she was practically throwing herself at you.”
“Jealous?” He said with a smirk.
That just irritated her more.
She scoffed at him.
“No actually I’m glad she has someone new to move on to. She has had her eyes set on Ryan for months. However I would appreciate it if you wouldn’t use your flirting to interfere with my patients.”
“The fact remains Liz that had you been here and not with your boyfriend I wouldn’t have been needed.”
“Are you implying that my relationship is getting in the way of me being a good Doctor?”
“If the shoe fits.”
Liz poked him with her finger.
“You have a lot of nerve. As soon as I got that page I was here. You should be worried about yourself, flirting with patients and nurses.”
“You are so jealous.” Max said with a smile.
“I am not.” She yelled back.
Their conversation had started to garner a little attention as it became a little louder.
Ryan exited the elevator nearest the nurse’s station and happened upon them.
“I can’t believe you. You said you would let it go.”
“I’m only stating the obvious and I only promised to give you space.”
“You can’t leave well enough alone.”
“Is everything all right?” He asked concerned.
Liz whipped her head around when she heard his voice. Her eyes met his.
Ryan was concerned by her appearance. “Liz are you ok?”
“I’m fine.” She said quickly.
“Sorry, Dr. Carmichael we were just disagreeing on a patients treatment. Things can get really hot between Liz and I…
“…When we disagree.” He added slowly.
Liz’s head swung around. Her mouth was slightly a jar. She could not believe that he had just said that.
Max smiled. He was getting to her. She stood there just staring at him. He felt bad for her so he decided to add something to get her off the hook.
“Remember that time we disagreed about how much sulfur to use in our experiment in Chem class. We had detention for a week.”
Liz still couldn’t believe it, but he was giving her a way out so she took it.
“Right but if I remember correctly I was right.” She said.
“That you were.”
“Listen that may be the case, but if you are going to disagree please do it in private.”
“I promise if things get hot again we will take into a more private area.” Max responded.
“I have rounds I need to finish if I ever want to get out of here.” Liz said suddenly.
“Me too. I have plans.” Max said knowing it would bother her.
He got his confirmation when she shot him a glare.
“I’ll see you tonight Ryan. Just let yourself in.”
Two could play at this game.
They both took off in separate direction leaving Ryan to wonder what the hell had just happened.
If he had only listened a little harder he would have heard Mrs. Galton in room 412 say: “I am always right about these things: sexual tension.”
Re: Till we meet again (All CC ) MATURE Part 37 A/N 04/07/08
Well finaly here it is. Thank You for waiting.
Part 38
“Hello! I’m here.” Maria yelled as she struggled with the bags she was carrying.
Lady barked at her arrival and came barreling toward her.
“Wow.” Maria said struggling not to drop the bags.
“In the Kitchen.” She heard Alex yell over the sound of the barking.
Maria headed in that direction and plopped the bags down on the counter and quickly gave lady a pat on the head.
“You’re such a good dog.” She said smiling at her.
“She smells food.” Alex added.
“Lady, go rest.”
The dog followed Alex’s command and went to lay by the front door.
“Maria what did you buy out Whole Foods?”
“This, my friend is WHAC comfort food.” She said as she began to pull things out of the bags.
“Chips, Nacho cheese Salsa, ice cream and of course Orange Soda to wash it all down.” She added as she emptied the last bag.
“Geez Maria, Michael didn’t get you pregnant again did he.”
“Bite your tongue. Besides we would actually have to be having sex for that to happen and we haven’t taken that step.”
“I think that is for the best. Don’t you? The one and only time you two decide to take alien human relations to the next level you ended up pregnant and he blasted off to another planet.”
“Sure Alex, but Drama much?” She had to agree sex could complicate things.
“I don’t want anything to ruin what we have going but I don’t know how long we are going to be able to keep this up.”
“What do you mean?” Alex asked confused.
“I asked Michael to move in with me.”
Alex put his elbows on the counter and rested his chin on his hands but said nothing.
“What no comment? You don’t seem too surprised.”
“Are you happy Maria?”
She thought for a few moments. Was she happy? The answer was yes. She couldn’t remember the last time she had felt so complete.
“Yes.”
“Then I ‘m happy too. For all his faults Michael’s a good guy and anyone who looks at him look at you and Mickayla can tell that he loves you. That is all I care about.”
“Well at least you took it well. I am not sure how Liz and Kyle will react.”
Alex popped open a can of orange soda as Maria opened up the chips and assorted dips.
“For all that they have been through they won’t begrudge you your happiness. I am not saying this will be easy for them but I think that they will get used to it.”
They moved into the great room and put the food on the coffee table.
“So how are things with you and Isabel?”
A small smile appeared on his lips.
“Good.”
“They must be more than good from that look.” She said with a laugh.
“Isabel and I were cut short. We weren’t where you guys were but we had feelings and those feelings are still there. So we have decided to explore that.” He said thinking back over the time he had spent with Isabel since she had returned.
“That’s great Alex.” Maria said sincerely.
“I’m happy but I am hoping it won’t move at the glacial speed it did in High School. If that’s the case you’ll have grandkids before I even have children.” He said with a laugh.
“Well they don’t call her the ice princess for nothing.”
The two of them began to laugh as Lady stirred and began to bark.
“Well that must be the other members of the We Hate Aliens Club.” Alex said.
“Only two of us don’t hate our aliens anymore.” Maria said as the two of them walked toward the door.
It was Liz and Kyle. They said there hellos and Alex took their coasts
Liz was holding a tray of brownies and Kyle a tray of cookies.
“Who robbed a bakery?” Alex asked as they all returned to the Great Room.
“I made those.” Liz said.
“Oh, boy what happened?”
“Nothing what makes you think anything happened?”
“Chica! I have known you since Kindergarten. The only time you bake like this is when you are stressed.”
Liz rolled her eyes.
“Do you remember when my due date was approaching? My house was filled with cakes and cookies and muffins. It was insane. I think I gained more weight those few weeks then I did my whole pregnancy.”
“Baking is therapeutic.”
“So spill what happened.”
“Well in a matter of days that… ALIEN managed to worm his way into everything I am involved in at the hospital. Even the Juvenile Diabetes project with Ryan.”
“How did that happen?” Alex asked.
“Ugh…by being a good doctor!! Why can’t he go do his residency somewhere else? This is my hospital, my project, my life!” She yelled in frustration.
“Well he has certainly gotten under your skin again.” Kyle said staring at an enraged Liz.
“He is not under my skin. He is annoying. He thinks that there is still something between us and there is NOT! I’m with Ryan. He is gorgeous, caring loyal. He would never betray me.”
“Umm… Liz it sounds like your describing a puppy again.” Maria said thinking about the time that she had described Kyle in those same exact words.
Liz shot her a glare. She wanted to get the focus off her and she knew just what to do.
“Well I have to deal with him. I can’t tell him I don’t want to see him like Kyle told Tess.”
Liz’s attempt at diverting attention was successful all eyes turned to Kyle.
“What?” He asked as he shrugged his shoulders and shoved some chips and dip in his mouth.
“How is it possible that you can avoid the Mother of your child?” Maria asked.
“I just told her that I needed time to bond with Jamie on my own and that she should have Serena bring Jamie to see me.”
“You’re kidding?” Maria said shocked.
“And she went for that?” Alex added.
“She wasn’t happy but I can be very convincing.” He said popping a chip into his mouth.
Maria hit him upside the head.
“Ouch.” Kyle said rubbing the spot she had hit.
“You can not avoid her. You have to deal with her. She is the mother of your child.” Maria said.
“Hey how come she gets sympathy and I get grief?” He asked pointing at Liz.
“Because you are a parent and for Jamie’s sake you need to work things through with her. Like it or not your stuck with her.”
“I can’t be around her Maria. My mind doesn’t work. I can’t get sucked back in.”
“Kyle you realize you can’t avoid her forever.” Alex said.
“There are things you need to discuss. Have you thought about what you are going to do when you leave for spring training?”
The thought hadn’t really entered his mind. What was he going to do when he had to go to Arizona in February?
“I have some time to think about it.” He said none too convincingly to any of them.
“I’m sure you guys can work something out.” Liz said.
“You’ll have to talk to her first though.” Maria added.
“I know but can’t I have some time to enjoy my son before it has to get so complicated?” He pleaded.
Maria relented. A lot had changed for Kyle in the last few weeks and if he needed this for know who was she to say anything?
Kyle saw his chance to change the subject and took it.
“So how are things going with you and Guerin?”
Maria looked up quickly caught off guard by the sudden change in topic.
“Umm… Good. I have something to tell you guys.”
“You and Michael are getting married.” Liz said excitedly.
Maria looked at her best friend with a look of confusion on her face.
“No, not yet but we are moving in together.”
“Wow that’s great.” Liz said.
Maria must have still had the look of confusion on her face because Liz was staring at her.
“What’s wrong Maria? Isn’t this what you wanted?” Liz asked.
“Yes. I just didn’t expect that you would take it so well.”
“Why not?” Liz and Kyle asked at the same time.
“Well this is a “We Hate Aliens” meeting.” Maria said.
Both Kyle and Liz laughed.
“That’s true but we don’t hate all aliens. Jamie is half alien and so is Mickayla. So we like some aliens.” Kyle said laughing.
“Maria, I just want you to be happy. I know that Michael does that for you.” Liz said reassuringly.
“Besides your alien just doesn’t irritate you like m…” She was about to say mine but stopped herself.
“Max.” She finished instead.
“You are the best friend a girl could ask for you know that?”
Liz smiled.
“Just make sure you don’t pick out some horribly ugly bridesmaid dress for me.
“Moi? I have way to much style for that!”
The two girls laughed as if they were teenagers again.
For the rest of the night the four friends stuffed their faces, hung out, watched TV and played video games. It was good to be together and to know that not even the returning aliens could tear them apart.
************&***********************************************
Michael and Mickayla arrived at Max, Isabel, Tess and Serena’s house about a half hour after Maria left for Alex’s.
“I can’t go in there.” Mickayla said as the approached the door.
Michael knelt down to her level.
“What’s wrong? Are you afraid?”
“No I want to see Jamie but I still can’t go in.” She said moving a little bit back from the door.
Michael was confused and a bit concerned.
“Mickayla what’s wrong?” He asked as he swooped her up in his arms.
“Someone is really mad in there Daddy. I can feel it from out here. If I go in I might not be able to filter it.” She said sadly.
Michael again cursed himself for giving her this power. He needed to find out what was going on. He carried Mickayla back to the car and sat her on the hood.
“Is that better?” He asked and Mickayla smiled.
As he was pulling out his cell phone to call Serena who was probably in the house he heard his name being called.
“Michael.” Max called as he got out of his car.
Max waved and Michael put the cell phone back in his pocket.
“Hey, I didn’t expect to see you tonight.” Max said as he approached them.
Mickayla grabbed Michael’s hand.
“Maria had a WHAC meeting.”
Max looked at him curiously.
“Don’t ask man.” He said with a laugh.
Max turned his attention toward the beautiful little girl who was holding on tightly to Michael’s hand. It was amazing how much she resembled both Maria and Michael.
“You must be Mickayla. I have heard a lot about you but nobody told me how beautiful you were.” He said.
Mickayla smiled at Max. She recognized him from pictures she had seen.
“This is you Uncle Max. He is Aunt Isabel’s brother.”
“What are you guys doing hang out here? Don’t you know tonight is Pizza night.”
“We would like to go in but no one knows that we are coming and when we approached the door Mickayla said she couldn’t go in because someone was really mad.”
“She could feel it from all the way out here?” Max asked amazed. He had met a few emapths on Antar and knew that until they learned to control it that it was difficult.
“Let me go in and check on what or should I say who is causing this.” Max said.
He gave a wink to Mickayla “We’ll be eating Pizza before you know it.”
They watched Max jog to the front door and go in.
Mickayla was confused. Any time that Max’s name was mentioned around Aunt Liz she got sad and then mad. She couldn’t under stand it. He seemed very nice and the colors around him were bright and a lot like Aunt Liz’s.
“How come Aunt Liz feels sad about Uncle Max.” Mickayla asked her father.
Michael wasn’t expecting that question. It took him totally by surprise. How did you explain the story that was Max and Liz to a 5 year old?
“That is a long story honey, but before you were born Uncle Max and Aunt Liz were very much in love. Then we had to leave and that made Aunt Liz very sad.”
“But you left Daddy and Mommy was sad but now you are happy. Is that going to happen with Uncle Max and Aunt Liz?”
“I hope so.” He said and then added silently “For all our sakes I hope so.”
Max came running out of the house with a smile.
“Everything ok?” Michael asked.
When Max had walked in he had found Tess furiously venting to Isabel about the fact that Kyle wanted “alone” time with Jamie.
He explained to them about Michael and Mickayla and then headed back outside.
“Tess is mighty mad at Valenti.” Max said as he approached Michael.
“What did he do?”
“He told her that he wanted Serena to bring Jamie to him because he wanted to bond with his son alone.”
“Ouch! He has to be stupid.”
“Daddy! That is not a nice word and Uncle Kyle is not stupid!”
Max laughed at Mickayla. She definitely had Maria’s flair for the dramatic.
“You’re right about that not being a nice word.” He said to her.
Then he leaned in so only Max could hear. “But I stick by the “he’s stupid part.”
Max laughed and then told them it was ok for them to go in as Tess had put some blocks in place.
As they approached the door Michael stopped to make sure that she was ok. She nodded her head and they went in.
Once they entered the house they all said hello. Isabel gave her niece a big kiss. Tess apologized stating that she didn’t know that they were coming or she would have been sure to block her emotions.
Mickayla gave her a hug and said she was sorry that she was so upset.
“I know you’re mad at Uncle Kyle but Mommy says that sometimes he doesn’t think before he acts. Like the time he thought it would be a good idea for us to have a whipped cream fight in the kitchen when he was babysitting. Mommy was pretty mad at him then.”
“I’m sure she was.” Isabel said trying to hide her laughter.
“Did Uncle Kyle spray you with whip cream?” Mickayla asked seriously.
“Something like that.” Tess said smiling.
She found it very hard to be angry about anything right now.
Jamie came running down the stairs.
“Mickayla!” He yelled.
He was so excited she was here to play with him.
He quickly grabbed a hold of her hand and dragged her to his room to see the nes toys Kyle had gotten him that day.
All of the aliens were now gathered together in the family room. It had been a long ime since they had all been together like this. With Max working at the hospital, Michael at Maria’s and Tess getting things in order with Kyle they hadn’t had much time together.
Tess clued them all in on the events that had taken place in the park.
“Well if it makes you feel any better he was really good with Jamie. It did appear as if they were bonding.” Serena said. Somehow she felt a need to defend Kyle and she didn’t know where that was coming from.
“I never doubted they would bond. I always knew that Kyle would make a great dad. Don’t let him fool you Sere. He is avoiding me. He doesn’t like the emotions I make him feel. He thinks he can avoid me but he can’t.”
Serena tried not to frown. What the hell was going on with her anyway?
“So it doesn’t sound like it is going too well for any of us.” Tess added.
“That’s not quite true.” Michael chimed in.
All eyes turned to him.
“Maria asked me to move in with her.”
“That’s great Michael. You will finally have the family you always wanted.” Isabel said.
“Does Maria know?” Max asked.
“No Max. We haven’t taken that next step yet but I plan to tell her everything before we do. There can’t be anymore secrets between us. There is too much at stake.”
“I wouldn’t ask you to keep it from her.”
“And the first person she is going to tell is Liz.” Isabel said looking at her brother.
“Don’t you think I know that?” Max said.
“So why don’t you just tell her then?” Serena asked.
“I have asked too much of Liz. I can’t put this on her.”
“It’s not only her it is all of us. Kyle won’t even talk to me.” Tess added.
All eyes turned to Isabel. “What? Things are different for me. Alex and I were just starting to form our connection. I can move slowly. I want him to know but I won’t tell him until everyone’s ready.”
“Dad Come here I need to show you something.” Mickayla yelled from upstairs.
“I’ll be right back.” He said and headed for the stairs.
“Michael is the closest to sealing his connection. Once that happens Maria will know and they will all know.” Tess said.
“Maybe Maria won’t say anything. Serena said.
They all laughed. “You don’t know Maria. She tells them everything, especially Liz.” Isabel said.
“So what are you going to do Max?” Isabel asked.
“I’m going to try and win her back.” He said.
Isabel and Tess frowned.
“What do you want me to say “Liz sleep with me so that I can stay on this planet? I don’t think that’s going to go over too well. ”
“Well its better then Maria telling her that she has to sleep with you for you to stay on the planet.”
“Don’t you understand it’s more that just about the sex. It’s about finishing what we started and we can’t do that if she doesn’t trust me.”
“I now…” Tess started to talk but Michael and the kids came down the stairs.
“These two are starving.” He said.
“Then let’s eat!” Tess exclaimed as she swooped her son up for a hug.
All talk of alien human relationships tabled for the time being the aliens and the only two alien human offspring sat down and had some pizza.
Part 38
“Hello! I’m here.” Maria yelled as she struggled with the bags she was carrying.
Lady barked at her arrival and came barreling toward her.
“Wow.” Maria said struggling not to drop the bags.
“In the Kitchen.” She heard Alex yell over the sound of the barking.
Maria headed in that direction and plopped the bags down on the counter and quickly gave lady a pat on the head.
“You’re such a good dog.” She said smiling at her.
“She smells food.” Alex added.
“Lady, go rest.”
The dog followed Alex’s command and went to lay by the front door.
“Maria what did you buy out Whole Foods?”
“This, my friend is WHAC comfort food.” She said as she began to pull things out of the bags.
“Chips, Nacho cheese Salsa, ice cream and of course Orange Soda to wash it all down.” She added as she emptied the last bag.
“Geez Maria, Michael didn’t get you pregnant again did he.”
“Bite your tongue. Besides we would actually have to be having sex for that to happen and we haven’t taken that step.”
“I think that is for the best. Don’t you? The one and only time you two decide to take alien human relations to the next level you ended up pregnant and he blasted off to another planet.”
“Sure Alex, but Drama much?” She had to agree sex could complicate things.
“I don’t want anything to ruin what we have going but I don’t know how long we are going to be able to keep this up.”
“What do you mean?” Alex asked confused.
“I asked Michael to move in with me.”
Alex put his elbows on the counter and rested his chin on his hands but said nothing.
“What no comment? You don’t seem too surprised.”
“Are you happy Maria?”
She thought for a few moments. Was she happy? The answer was yes. She couldn’t remember the last time she had felt so complete.
“Yes.”
“Then I ‘m happy too. For all his faults Michael’s a good guy and anyone who looks at him look at you and Mickayla can tell that he loves you. That is all I care about.”
“Well at least you took it well. I am not sure how Liz and Kyle will react.”
Alex popped open a can of orange soda as Maria opened up the chips and assorted dips.
“For all that they have been through they won’t begrudge you your happiness. I am not saying this will be easy for them but I think that they will get used to it.”
They moved into the great room and put the food on the coffee table.
“So how are things with you and Isabel?”
A small smile appeared on his lips.
“Good.”
“They must be more than good from that look.” She said with a laugh.
“Isabel and I were cut short. We weren’t where you guys were but we had feelings and those feelings are still there. So we have decided to explore that.” He said thinking back over the time he had spent with Isabel since she had returned.
“That’s great Alex.” Maria said sincerely.
“I’m happy but I am hoping it won’t move at the glacial speed it did in High School. If that’s the case you’ll have grandkids before I even have children.” He said with a laugh.
“Well they don’t call her the ice princess for nothing.”
The two of them began to laugh as Lady stirred and began to bark.
“Well that must be the other members of the We Hate Aliens Club.” Alex said.
“Only two of us don’t hate our aliens anymore.” Maria said as the two of them walked toward the door.
It was Liz and Kyle. They said there hellos and Alex took their coasts
Liz was holding a tray of brownies and Kyle a tray of cookies.
“Who robbed a bakery?” Alex asked as they all returned to the Great Room.
“I made those.” Liz said.
“Oh, boy what happened?”
“Nothing what makes you think anything happened?”
“Chica! I have known you since Kindergarten. The only time you bake like this is when you are stressed.”
Liz rolled her eyes.
“Do you remember when my due date was approaching? My house was filled with cakes and cookies and muffins. It was insane. I think I gained more weight those few weeks then I did my whole pregnancy.”
“Baking is therapeutic.”
“So spill what happened.”
“Well in a matter of days that… ALIEN managed to worm his way into everything I am involved in at the hospital. Even the Juvenile Diabetes project with Ryan.”
“How did that happen?” Alex asked.
“Ugh…by being a good doctor!! Why can’t he go do his residency somewhere else? This is my hospital, my project, my life!” She yelled in frustration.
“Well he has certainly gotten under your skin again.” Kyle said staring at an enraged Liz.
“He is not under my skin. He is annoying. He thinks that there is still something between us and there is NOT! I’m with Ryan. He is gorgeous, caring loyal. He would never betray me.”
“Umm… Liz it sounds like your describing a puppy again.” Maria said thinking about the time that she had described Kyle in those same exact words.
Liz shot her a glare. She wanted to get the focus off her and she knew just what to do.
“Well I have to deal with him. I can’t tell him I don’t want to see him like Kyle told Tess.”
Liz’s attempt at diverting attention was successful all eyes turned to Kyle.
“What?” He asked as he shrugged his shoulders and shoved some chips and dip in his mouth.
“How is it possible that you can avoid the Mother of your child?” Maria asked.
“I just told her that I needed time to bond with Jamie on my own and that she should have Serena bring Jamie to see me.”
“You’re kidding?” Maria said shocked.
“And she went for that?” Alex added.
“She wasn’t happy but I can be very convincing.” He said popping a chip into his mouth.
Maria hit him upside the head.
“Ouch.” Kyle said rubbing the spot she had hit.
“You can not avoid her. You have to deal with her. She is the mother of your child.” Maria said.
“Hey how come she gets sympathy and I get grief?” He asked pointing at Liz.
“Because you are a parent and for Jamie’s sake you need to work things through with her. Like it or not your stuck with her.”
“I can’t be around her Maria. My mind doesn’t work. I can’t get sucked back in.”
“Kyle you realize you can’t avoid her forever.” Alex said.
“There are things you need to discuss. Have you thought about what you are going to do when you leave for spring training?”
The thought hadn’t really entered his mind. What was he going to do when he had to go to Arizona in February?
“I have some time to think about it.” He said none too convincingly to any of them.
“I’m sure you guys can work something out.” Liz said.
“You’ll have to talk to her first though.” Maria added.
“I know but can’t I have some time to enjoy my son before it has to get so complicated?” He pleaded.
Maria relented. A lot had changed for Kyle in the last few weeks and if he needed this for know who was she to say anything?
Kyle saw his chance to change the subject and took it.
“So how are things going with you and Guerin?”
Maria looked up quickly caught off guard by the sudden change in topic.
“Umm… Good. I have something to tell you guys.”
“You and Michael are getting married.” Liz said excitedly.
Maria looked at her best friend with a look of confusion on her face.
“No, not yet but we are moving in together.”
“Wow that’s great.” Liz said.
Maria must have still had the look of confusion on her face because Liz was staring at her.
“What’s wrong Maria? Isn’t this what you wanted?” Liz asked.
“Yes. I just didn’t expect that you would take it so well.”
“Why not?” Liz and Kyle asked at the same time.
“Well this is a “We Hate Aliens” meeting.” Maria said.
Both Kyle and Liz laughed.
“That’s true but we don’t hate all aliens. Jamie is half alien and so is Mickayla. So we like some aliens.” Kyle said laughing.
“Maria, I just want you to be happy. I know that Michael does that for you.” Liz said reassuringly.
“Besides your alien just doesn’t irritate you like m…” She was about to say mine but stopped herself.
“Max.” She finished instead.
“You are the best friend a girl could ask for you know that?”
Liz smiled.
“Just make sure you don’t pick out some horribly ugly bridesmaid dress for me.
“Moi? I have way to much style for that!”
The two girls laughed as if they were teenagers again.
For the rest of the night the four friends stuffed their faces, hung out, watched TV and played video games. It was good to be together and to know that not even the returning aliens could tear them apart.
************&***********************************************
Michael and Mickayla arrived at Max, Isabel, Tess and Serena’s house about a half hour after Maria left for Alex’s.
“I can’t go in there.” Mickayla said as the approached the door.
Michael knelt down to her level.
“What’s wrong? Are you afraid?”
“No I want to see Jamie but I still can’t go in.” She said moving a little bit back from the door.
Michael was confused and a bit concerned.
“Mickayla what’s wrong?” He asked as he swooped her up in his arms.
“Someone is really mad in there Daddy. I can feel it from out here. If I go in I might not be able to filter it.” She said sadly.
Michael again cursed himself for giving her this power. He needed to find out what was going on. He carried Mickayla back to the car and sat her on the hood.
“Is that better?” He asked and Mickayla smiled.
As he was pulling out his cell phone to call Serena who was probably in the house he heard his name being called.
“Michael.” Max called as he got out of his car.
Max waved and Michael put the cell phone back in his pocket.
“Hey, I didn’t expect to see you tonight.” Max said as he approached them.
Mickayla grabbed Michael’s hand.
“Maria had a WHAC meeting.”
Max looked at him curiously.
“Don’t ask man.” He said with a laugh.
Max turned his attention toward the beautiful little girl who was holding on tightly to Michael’s hand. It was amazing how much she resembled both Maria and Michael.
“You must be Mickayla. I have heard a lot about you but nobody told me how beautiful you were.” He said.
Mickayla smiled at Max. She recognized him from pictures she had seen.
“This is you Uncle Max. He is Aunt Isabel’s brother.”
“What are you guys doing hang out here? Don’t you know tonight is Pizza night.”
“We would like to go in but no one knows that we are coming and when we approached the door Mickayla said she couldn’t go in because someone was really mad.”
“She could feel it from all the way out here?” Max asked amazed. He had met a few emapths on Antar and knew that until they learned to control it that it was difficult.
“Let me go in and check on what or should I say who is causing this.” Max said.
He gave a wink to Mickayla “We’ll be eating Pizza before you know it.”
They watched Max jog to the front door and go in.
Mickayla was confused. Any time that Max’s name was mentioned around Aunt Liz she got sad and then mad. She couldn’t under stand it. He seemed very nice and the colors around him were bright and a lot like Aunt Liz’s.
“How come Aunt Liz feels sad about Uncle Max.” Mickayla asked her father.
Michael wasn’t expecting that question. It took him totally by surprise. How did you explain the story that was Max and Liz to a 5 year old?
“That is a long story honey, but before you were born Uncle Max and Aunt Liz were very much in love. Then we had to leave and that made Aunt Liz very sad.”
“But you left Daddy and Mommy was sad but now you are happy. Is that going to happen with Uncle Max and Aunt Liz?”
“I hope so.” He said and then added silently “For all our sakes I hope so.”
Max came running out of the house with a smile.
“Everything ok?” Michael asked.
When Max had walked in he had found Tess furiously venting to Isabel about the fact that Kyle wanted “alone” time with Jamie.
He explained to them about Michael and Mickayla and then headed back outside.
“Tess is mighty mad at Valenti.” Max said as he approached Michael.
“What did he do?”
“He told her that he wanted Serena to bring Jamie to him because he wanted to bond with his son alone.”
“Ouch! He has to be stupid.”
“Daddy! That is not a nice word and Uncle Kyle is not stupid!”
Max laughed at Mickayla. She definitely had Maria’s flair for the dramatic.
“You’re right about that not being a nice word.” He said to her.
Then he leaned in so only Max could hear. “But I stick by the “he’s stupid part.”
Max laughed and then told them it was ok for them to go in as Tess had put some blocks in place.
As they approached the door Michael stopped to make sure that she was ok. She nodded her head and they went in.
Once they entered the house they all said hello. Isabel gave her niece a big kiss. Tess apologized stating that she didn’t know that they were coming or she would have been sure to block her emotions.
Mickayla gave her a hug and said she was sorry that she was so upset.
“I know you’re mad at Uncle Kyle but Mommy says that sometimes he doesn’t think before he acts. Like the time he thought it would be a good idea for us to have a whipped cream fight in the kitchen when he was babysitting. Mommy was pretty mad at him then.”
“I’m sure she was.” Isabel said trying to hide her laughter.
“Did Uncle Kyle spray you with whip cream?” Mickayla asked seriously.
“Something like that.” Tess said smiling.
She found it very hard to be angry about anything right now.
Jamie came running down the stairs.
“Mickayla!” He yelled.
He was so excited she was here to play with him.
He quickly grabbed a hold of her hand and dragged her to his room to see the nes toys Kyle had gotten him that day.
All of the aliens were now gathered together in the family room. It had been a long ime since they had all been together like this. With Max working at the hospital, Michael at Maria’s and Tess getting things in order with Kyle they hadn’t had much time together.
Tess clued them all in on the events that had taken place in the park.
“Well if it makes you feel any better he was really good with Jamie. It did appear as if they were bonding.” Serena said. Somehow she felt a need to defend Kyle and she didn’t know where that was coming from.
“I never doubted they would bond. I always knew that Kyle would make a great dad. Don’t let him fool you Sere. He is avoiding me. He doesn’t like the emotions I make him feel. He thinks he can avoid me but he can’t.”
Serena tried not to frown. What the hell was going on with her anyway?
“So it doesn’t sound like it is going too well for any of us.” Tess added.
“That’s not quite true.” Michael chimed in.
All eyes turned to him.
“Maria asked me to move in with her.”
“That’s great Michael. You will finally have the family you always wanted.” Isabel said.
“Does Maria know?” Max asked.
“No Max. We haven’t taken that next step yet but I plan to tell her everything before we do. There can’t be anymore secrets between us. There is too much at stake.”
“I wouldn’t ask you to keep it from her.”
“And the first person she is going to tell is Liz.” Isabel said looking at her brother.
“Don’t you think I know that?” Max said.
“So why don’t you just tell her then?” Serena asked.
“I have asked too much of Liz. I can’t put this on her.”
“It’s not only her it is all of us. Kyle won’t even talk to me.” Tess added.
All eyes turned to Isabel. “What? Things are different for me. Alex and I were just starting to form our connection. I can move slowly. I want him to know but I won’t tell him until everyone’s ready.”
“Dad Come here I need to show you something.” Mickayla yelled from upstairs.
“I’ll be right back.” He said and headed for the stairs.
“Michael is the closest to sealing his connection. Once that happens Maria will know and they will all know.” Tess said.
“Maybe Maria won’t say anything. Serena said.
They all laughed. “You don’t know Maria. She tells them everything, especially Liz.” Isabel said.
“So what are you going to do Max?” Isabel asked.
“I’m going to try and win her back.” He said.
Isabel and Tess frowned.
“What do you want me to say “Liz sleep with me so that I can stay on this planet? I don’t think that’s going to go over too well. ”
“Well its better then Maria telling her that she has to sleep with you for you to stay on the planet.”
“Don’t you understand it’s more that just about the sex. It’s about finishing what we started and we can’t do that if she doesn’t trust me.”
“I now…” Tess started to talk but Michael and the kids came down the stairs.
“These two are starving.” He said.
“Then let’s eat!” Tess exclaimed as she swooped her son up for a hug.
All talk of alien human relationships tabled for the time being the aliens and the only two alien human offspring sat down and had some pizza.