Anything But Ordinary (AU, M/L, Mature) [Complete]

[Erina]

Well, it's Monday. Hmm, about the surgery, it wasn't anything serious, I'm feeling much better. Thanks for your wonderful feedback and enjoy the part!

Part 11

“Max?” Isabel said as she opened the door to his room slightly, “Tess is on the phone. Again.”

Max sighed and closed his eyes for a moment. He was completely irritated. “Tell her I’m in the shower,” he whispered quietly.

Isabel nodded and disappeared, only to return a moment later, “The phone is in my room, she said she would wait,”

Max threw his pen away in frustration. Why couldn’t Tess understand that he didn’t want to go out with her? Although Tess’ speech at her house was creepy, he hadn’t changed his mind. Tess was crazy if she thought she could make him be with her. Crazy.

But she obviously hadn’t given up. Tess called him everyday. Max’s cell phone was off for the most of the time, because of Tess.

Max still didn’t think that Tess was bad; she just had...some issues. And she was obsessed.

He hadn’t seen Liz since the grand opening of the restaurant and he missed her. He wanted to see her, hear her voice…anything. But she was Tess’ best friend; he couldn’t go to her, at least not now.

“Dad said he wanted to talk with you,” Isabel popped down on Max’s bed. “It sounded serious,” she added.

Max frowned. Graduation would be in a few days. Maybe he wanted to talk about it? Although he hadn’t said anything to anyone, he had been accepted toHarvard. He wanted to study Medicine there in fall. He knew that his Dad had other plans for him, studying Business, but Max wasn’t going to listen to him. It was his life and his future.

Then there was the story of Tess; since Max hadn’t told him about his break-up with her either. His Dad would be furious about that too. But then again, lately he hadn’t been content with anything Max did.

“Ok, I will go down in a minute,” Max said and sat down on the bed as well.

“What about you?” he asked. “How are you?”

Isabel shrugged. “I’m okay, Max. Still hanging in there,” she offered a weak smile.

Max pulled his sister in a hug, ”Look, I know I haven’t been a good brother lately, always busy and not around, but...I’m here, Isabel. For you, I’m always here, you know that, right?”

Isabel nodded.

“You have been so brave, so strong lately,” Max smiled. “I’m so proud of you,”

“Thank you, Max,” said Isabel. “I’m fine, really. It just irritates me that Dad ignores me for the most part. It’s only when we’re in the public, that he is this...caring Dad. But at home he is so cold, so distant. He either talks about you or his profit in the last year,”

Isabel turned to him. “By the way, have you lately seen Maria?” she asked.

Max thought for a moment. No, he hadn’t seen or heard anything much from Maria at all. Only a quick chat in the school hall or an email, but that’s all.

“No,” he answered. “Although I didn’t notice that until now,”

“She is acting strange lately,” his sister said.

“Strange? Stranger than usual?” Max chuckled.

Isabel laughed, “Yes, can you imagine?”

Isabel’s cell phone started vibrating and she picked it up. “Hello,” she answered. “Ah, wait a minute,” she said and stood up. “It’s Maria,” she said to Max. “She’s complaining that our home phone is busy all the time,” she laughed. “I’m going to talk with her for a little bit, but you should talk with Dad, don’t postpone it,” Isabel said and disappeared into the hall, leaving Max alone in his room with his thoughts.

His sister was right. He had to talk with him. It was his life. Philip couldn’t make him study business or date Tess if Max didn’t want it. Right?

Max went downstairs. Isabel was in her room, talking with Maria and he didn’t know where his Mom was.

Max noticed Anita, a young girl, who worked for them. Evans’ had their own cook, driver and a few servants.

“Hey,” Max said to the young girl who actually was around his own age, but since their cook was fifty years old and driver forty, Anita seemed young to him.

The girl blushed and looked down. “Yes, Mr. Evans,” she said.

“Anita,” Max laughed. “How many times I have asked to not call me Mr. Evans?”

Anita blushed even more. She was young, so young, Max thought. She would graduate this week as well, but she wouldn’t afford to go to college. Her Dad had died when she was just an infant and now her Mom was sick and Anita couldn’t leave her alone. She would stay and work as a servant in order to pay the bills and for medicine.

“Do you know where my Mom is?” Max asked.

Anita relaxed and looked at Max. “She went out. Shopping, I think,” she replied.

Max nodded, “And what about my Dad?”

“He is in the study.”

“Thanks, Anita,” Max said and continued on his way.

As he neared the study, Max heard voices. His father wasn’t alone.

Max decided to leave and come back down in another hour, but when he heard the name ‘Parkers’ his feet froze and he didn’t move.

Plain curious, Max didn’t leave, but he didn’t move closer to the door either.

“When it will happen?” Max heard his father voice.

“When you want it to happen?” another voice replied. It was a man’s voice and Max didn’t recognize it.

There was a silence.

“Hmm, what about in a couple of days?” Philip suggested. “Just after graduation,”

“Fine,”

Philip laughed, “I can’t wait. The Parkers are going down,”

What? What was his Dad planning to do to Liz’s family?

Max suspected that sometimes his Dad didn’t play fair in the business. People were hurt and cheated, but he chose to close his eyes on this. He had had numerous arguments about this with his Dad previously, but eventually Max had given up.

But now...it was different. Liz’s family was involved.

Max went to the door and opened it. He saw his Dad, who looked quite shocked, but still didn’t loosethe smug look on his face, and a man Max didn’t know.

“What are you going to do to the Parkers?” Max asked.

[Erina]

Thanks, Laira and guelbebek! I almost forgot that I have to update tonight!

Part 12

“Excuse me,” Philip said to the other man in the room, “We have discussed everything we had to. You can go now, I will call you if I need something,”

The other man nodded, stood up and silently left the room, leaving Max and his father alone.

“Max?” Philip smiled, “How are you, son? Eager to graduate and leave school, I suspect,” he patted on his back.

Max frowned. He had expected that his dad would be angry, since he had almost rudely interrupted his conversation. But no…Philip was smiling.

“I asked you a question, father,” Max didn’t give in.

Philip was still smiling. “What question?” he asked.

“About the Parkers,”

“What about them?” Philip asked rather curiously.

Max sighed, “Come on, Dad, don’t play these games with me, I heard your words very clearly,”

“Son,” Philip said, his smile a little bit weaker, but still evident, “I’m glad that you’re interesting in my business, but …this is a bad time and place to start. The Parkers – forget about them, you shouldn’t worry about them at all,”

Philip went to the other side of his desk and took two cigars out. “Cigar?” he offered.

Max shook his head, “I don’t smoke, you know that,”

Mr. Evans put one of the cigars back in the desk. “It’s a bad thing, Maxwell,” he said as he lit the other cigar, “Many business deals have been discussed by smoking cigars and drinking some good wine,” he said.

“The Parkers, Dad,” Max reminded him.

“Don’t ‘Dad’ me, son, my patience will soon disappear,” he warned his son. “I’m not a bad or cruel man,” Philip said. “All I have done all my life is work and work to be able to give you and your sister the life you wanted,”

Max stayed silent.

“And all I want now…Max, is for you to go into business. This empire I have built through the years…everything one day will be yours, Maxwell,” Philip said proudly.

“Dad,” Max said rather weakly.

But even if Philip heard him, he ignored it.

“And, that reminds me what I wanted to talk with you about,” Philip said, putting down his cigar. “I have given you enough time, Max. You had the best clothes, best cars, best vacations, most expensive watches and so on and on…It’s now the time to pay back, son,”

“I’m not going into business, Dad,” Max said sternly.

Philip didn’t say anything for a while.

“Max, Max, Max....” he chanted as he stood up and poured some whiskey. “You are so young, boy, so...naive,” he spat. “You don’t have even a clue about real life. You think you’re free?” he laughed. “You’re wrong. I gave you a life. And what is more important, I gave you a good life. Never in your life have you worried about money or things like that,”

Mr. Evans took a gulp of his drink, “It’s time to pay the debt, boy,”

Max sighed, he knew it wouldn’t be easy, “Dad, I know you have given me a lot, but...it’s my life. And I want to be a doctor, I can’t study business and be unhappy for the rest of my life,”

“Cut it out! You’re being dramatic. You remind me of your mother,” Philip laughed.

“No, I won’t change my mind,” Max said.

“You will.”

“No.”

Philip placed a glass on the table, “No, Max. I’m tired of you being so damn stubborn,” he started to yell. “I have closed my eyes on many things. I didn’t push you much into business while you were still in school, letting you to explore parties, girls and youth. I even didn’t say anything about your break up with Tess Harding, although...I must say it was a very wrong from you to do something so stupid,”

“No, you’re wrong, Tess and I....” Max started.

Philip didn’t listen, “I thought you would be grateful, Max. But no…I gave you everything. A life without worries and you…you just throw it away!” he shouted.

“Calm down, you’re not listening,” Max tried to speak.

“Everything is planned, Max. You go to college, study business for four years, while working for me. After your graduation, I give my empire to you as my wedding gift to you and Tess,”

Max couldn’t believe his ears. So, Tess was right in some way. His life had already been planned.

Philip continued, “I have even talked with Ed and he agrees with me 100% percent. He will give his enterprises to Tess and together, you and Tess...You will be able to build an even bigger empire,” he said in awe, just thinking about the bright future.

“You would be rich and powerful, Max,” said Mr. Evans.

“I don’t want it!” Max shouted at his father for the first time.

Philip snapped out of his thoughts about Max’s wedding and looked at his son, “You what?” he asked. “You...don’t want it?!” he said, his voice raising steadily.

“I don’t want it,” Max repeated.

The next words, that came out of Philip’s mouth were a lot calmer than Max expected.

“Well,” Philip said quietly and took his glass of whiskey back in his hand. “Then you will have to deal with consequences,”

“What consequences?” Max asked.

Deep inside Max was determined; his Dad couldn’t make him choose a life he didn’t want.

“If you don’t go into business, then...you won’t be my son anymore,” Philip said. “I will take away all your money, your cars and so on. I won’t call you a son anymore and you won’t be welcome in this house either. I will re-write my will and after my death you won’t get anything, Max,” he said harshly.

“It’s your choice, Max. So...what it will be? Business or poorness?” Philip asked for the last time.

Father’s eyes met sons. The air was thick with tension as Max took out his wallet from his pocket and threw it on the floor. Soon the watch and keys to the car followed.

“You have my answer,” Max said coldly. He couldn’t believe that his father was going so far.

“You are ungrateful!!!” Philip roared and in anger threw his glass against the window. Glass shattered, but Max didn’t even flinch as he made his way out.

“Good-bye, Father,” Max said and went out, leaving a very furious Mr. Philip Evans behind.

[Erina]

Thanks for the great feedback! Here is the next part.

Part 13


“Max,” Isabel cried as she watched her brother packing. “You can’t be serious!” she said and approached him, trying to stop leaving.

Max shook his head, “No, Isabel, you don’t understand. Dad made me choose and I’ve…made my decision, I won’t change it anymore, besides Dad wouldn’t let me either,” he explained and placed some shirts in his bag.

He was going to leave this house, the only home he had ever known, where his family lived. Max felt bad that he would leave and in some way even abandon his sister, but he had to do this. Their mother still hadn’t returned from shopping and Max wasn’t even hoping for her help. He loved his mother and he would miss her greatly, but even Diane couldn’t convince Philip to change his mind.

All in all, Max couldn’t even understand why his parents were still together, since there obviously wasn’t any love involved. They were strangers. They had stopped sharing one room and one bed, since Max was ten.

After their fight, Max had gone to his room and started packing, until Isabel came.

“No, no,” Isabel took his clothes from his bag and placed them back in the closet, “Y-You just have to wait, Max. Dad will calm down and…then everything will be alright,” she gave him a weak smile.

Max didn’t return her smile and went after his shirts. He understood that Isabel didn’t want him to leave. Since they weren’t close with their parents, Max and Isabel had found family in each other. It would be hard to leave his little sister alone in this house.

“Max,” he heard Isabel’s weak whisper. As she started to sob quietly, Max put his clothes down and hugged her.

“Shh,” he soothed, “It’s going to be okay, Is,” he whispered.

Max hoped his own words would calm him as well, but it was useless. While he was trying to soothe his little sister, inside he was thinking about thousands questions.

What was he going to do? Where would he go? What would happen to him? What would happen to Isabel?

He had some money, which he had either saved or Diane had given to him directly. But it wasn’t much. He could live from it for a couple of months, but no more. And then what? What about Harvard?

What about his dream to become a doctor?

No, Max mentally shook himself, he wouldn’t let his Dad ruin his future. Okay, it was going to be hard without money for a few years, but he would work hard. He was able to do it. Right?

Max pulled away from Isabel.

“I’m sorry,” he said as she continued to cry.

“Max, no,” she sobbed, as he zipped his bag.

Max picked up his bag and took one last glance at his sister. “I’m sorry, Is. I promise I’ll visit you and…it’s not the end of the world. It’s not like he can forbid us to see each other,” he said with a small smile.

He planted a kiss on her forehead. “I’m going to miss you, little sis. Promise me, that you won’t start drinking again, okay?” he asked.

Isabel whipped her eyes and nodded.

A couple of minutes later, Max was outside the gates. He looked at his former home for a solid minute, before turning around and going away.

He had to find a place to stay.

~ ~ ~

“Good-morning, sweetheart,” Nancy greeted her only daughter.

“Morning, Mom,” Liz said and sat down at the table. “Hmm, smells good,” she said dreamily.

“I made your favourite pancakes,” her mother replied. “My baby is going to graduate tomorrow,” she said.

“Mom,” Liz whined. “I’m not a baby,” she pouted, sticking out her lower lip, but then burst out laughing a second later.

Nancy started to place pancakes in the dishes, “Hey, can you wake Michael up?”

Liz stood up. “Sure, be back in a sec,” she said and went out of the kitchen.

Liz went upstairs and opened Michael’s door without knocking, wanting to surprise him.

“Wake up, Mi....” Liz called, but her voice disappeared when she looked at her brother’s bed.

Liz blinked once, then twice.

She watched as Michael woke up and his eyes became wide when he realized that Liz was in the room.

“Liz!” he cried and pushed the sheet up, to cover himself properly. “What are you doing here?” he asked.

“I-I...” she stuttered.

Was that really a girl in his bed?

“Liz,” Michael said rather sternly. “Do you mind? Can you go out, so we can get dressed?” he asked.

Liz didn’t need anything more. She practically run out of the room and slammed the door after her.

Oh God, she was so, so embarrassed. Her cheeks were hot and Liz knew that they were red as well.

What had she done? That would give her a good lesson to NOT go into his room, without knocking.

But then again...his girlfriends never slept in his room. Besides, their parents didn’t allow it. But Liz didn’t even know that he was dating!

Liz heard as the door opened once again and she turned to face her brother.

With her eyes shut, she whispered, “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to do...something like that!”

Michael chuckled, “It’s okay now, Liz, you can open your eyes,”

Liz sighed in relief when she saw her fully dressed brother, who didn’t look angry.

“What did you want?” he asked.

“Mom asked me to wake you up, breakfast is ready,” she replied.

“Damn, I overslept,” he mumbled. “Can you tell Mom that I will be down in a minute?” Michael asked.

Liz nodded. “What are you going to do...hmm, about her?” she asked, pointing to the door.

“I’m going to use your balcony. We can’t go downstairs and your ladder is the only exit for her,”

Liz nodded once again, “But we’re going to talk about her, right?”

Her brother smiled. “Sure. I will be down in a couple of minutes,” he said, before disappearing in his room.

[Erina]

Hey. Although it looks like only 3 people *or so* read this story on this board, (:() I'm posting again (lol, it's Friday!)


Part 14


“So...”

“So...”

Liz threw a napkin at Michael.

“What?” he asked, acting hurt.

“You know…”

“What?”

Liz sighed. Obviously Michael didn’t want to tell her about the girl in his bed this morning. But Liz was determined to get the information.

“Well, I can go to Mom and Dad and tell them how bad you’ve been,” she said then.

“You wouldn’t.”

“I would.”

Michael thought. “Nah, you can’t,” he replied and turned his attention back to the newspaper.

“Mom! Dad!” Liz’s loud yell made his eyes widen in surprise.

“Liz! What the hell are you doing?” he whispered furiously.

His sister smirked, “What? I told you I would call them,”

Michael stiffened. “But you won’t tell them about Maria, right?” he asked nervously.

Liz smiled, “Ah, her name is Maria?”

At least she knew the name now.

“Will you tell me more about your secret girlfriend, Maria?” Liz asked.

“Yes, yes, I’ll do anything you say, just don’t tell Mom and Dad about her, okay?” he said quickly, looking at the door, waiting that any moment his parents would burst in and Liz would tell them.

Liz laughed when she noticed how nervous her brother was; apparently this girl meant something. Then why hide her?

“Relax, Mickey,” she said, “Mom and Dad aren’t home.”

“Liz!” Michael cried, “You’re not supposed to lie to your big brother.”

Liz ignored his last sentence, “So...”

“So....”

Liz rolled her eyes, “Are we back in this game? You said you would tell me about her,”

Michael sighed and put down the newspaper. “Fine. You won,” he said grumpily.

“Aha, yes I won,” Liz agreed with a broad smile. “So, about this Maria...”

Michael crossed his arms, “What do you want to know about her?”

“Where did you met?” Liz asked curiously. “And when?” she added.

“Hmm, remember that party a couple of months ago? In Las Cruces, I think Evans had a birthday party and Tess invited us both,” Michael asked.

Liz nodded.

“Well, that’s where I met Maria and we dated ever since,” he said shortly. “End of story,” Michael took newspaper back in his hand, ignoring looks that Liz was giving to him.

“Michael,” she whined. “Don’t be such a child,” Liz said and took the newspaper away from him. “I want to know more,”

“What more? I already told you more that I wanted,”

“Why didn’t you tell me that you have a girlfriend?” Liz asked, a little bit hurt. How come that her brother didn’t share the news about his life with her?

Michael sighed. “Look, I don’t know why I didn’t tell you. At first I thought it was nothing serious between Maria and I and then...it was kind of interesting to keep our relationship a secret,” he laughed.

“How serious is it?” Liz asked.

Her brother shrugged. “Dunno. One moment we’re good, then we’re fighting and breaking up,” he said.

“And now?”

“Now is...good. Although she wants to meet mom and dad,” he groaned at the thought.

“Well,” Liz said, “Do you like her?”

“Yes, of course I like her, she’s wonderful,” Michael replied quickly.

“Then why are you so scared to introduce her to mom and dad?” she asked confused.

“Have I ever taken a girl to introduce to them before?” he asked first.

Liz thought for a moment. Indeed she didn’t remember any Michael’s girl in their house. Of course, he had dated and even had one or two girlfriends, but nothing serious enough to bring home.

She shook her head, “No.”

“I just need more time to prepare,” he said.

“What to prepare? Dinner?” Liz laughed.

“Myself,” he cried, “It’s a serious step, Liz. If I bring some girl home, Mom would start planning my wedding,”

Liz laughed even harder.

“It’s not funny,” Michael growled. “Dad actually asked me, just a couple of days ago, when I’m going to settle down and create a family,” he said.

“You’re serious?” Liz asked surprised.

“Yes. You see, Dad even told me that he can’t wait for grandchildren,” Michael groaned.

“Don’t be so scared, Michael,” Liz encouraged. “But perhaps you really should think about everything first. If you don’t think that Maria is the one, then...perhaps it would be better to not bring her home,” she suggested.

Michael looked away.

“Liz?”

“Yes?”

“I want to introduce Maria to our parents,” he said. “She is the one,” Michael whispered.

[Erina]

Hey, thanks for the great feedback.But hey - Laira, you still hasn't answered to my question,lol. Enjoy the part!


Part 15

“Thank you again for letting me stay here,” Max said for the hundredth time that night.

Jeremy sent him a look. “Max, if you say that again, I swear you will start to regret it,” he laughed.

Max just chuckled, not feeling in the mood to laugh. His Dad had basically showed him the door, leaving him no choice. Max didn’t want to work for his father; he didn’t want to become just like him.

No, Max wanted something more from life, he wanted to help people.

The servant came into the room. “Mr. Evans, your father is on the phone,” she said and passed the phone to Max, who took it reservedly.

What did his father want now? He’d already got what he wanted.

“I’ll leave you alone.” Jeremy stood up and walked out of the room.

“Hello, Philip,” Max said rather coldly.

“Maxwell,” Philip roared on the other end. “What do you think you’re doing?”

Max was confused, “What do you mean? You told me to choose and… I chose,”

Philip continued to yell, “I want your stubborn ass back home in two minutes, you hear me, Max?”

Although Max had already made the decision; he was still willing to work on his relationship with Philip. “Does that mean I can study whatever I want?” he asked.

“What?! How can you ask something like that? You should be grateful that I’m willing to forget your stupid act,” Philip said. “Do you realize how much you have embarrassed the family? Embarrassed me?”

Max sighed tiredly, he was sick of this talk, “Dad, I don’t care what others think,”

Philip growled, “Yeah, I see that you apparently don’t care about your family either. But what about your mother? Isabel? Do you want to leave Isabel alone?”

Max frowned, Philip was touching a sore subject. “Isabel is safe at home. She should be fine,” he replied.

“What kind of brother are you, Max? Isabel needs you, but you leave home,” Philip continued.

“I did what I had to,” Max reminded him.

Philip went back to yelling, “That’s it, Max, these games have to stop! I’m expecting you to be back home tonight. At least you went to Jeremy; his family won’t mention this embarrassing moment, that Philip Evans’ son has left home!”

“So, that’s everything you care about?” Max asked. “Your reputation?”

“Max, I care about you, I want you to follow in my footsteps, I want you to achieve something...big in your life, but...you obviously want to ruin your life completely,”

“I’m not going to ruin my life,” Max objected. “The fact that I don’t want to do something you have planned for me, doesn’t mean that I will destroy my future,”

“Just come home, Max,” Philip said. “Your mother cried all evening, she misses you,”

Max closed his eyes; he didn’t want to hurt his mother. “I-I can’t go home. I won’t,” Max said.

There was silence.

“Fine,” Philip finally replied. “You want to be without money? Fine, it’s your choice. I’ll see how you are going to manage. But remember, from this day, I don’t have a son anymore, you’re dead to me,” Philip hissed, before disconnecting the line.

Max looked at the phone for a moment. How could his own father say such things? Had he even cared about him?

Max placed the phone back and went to his room. After his fight with Philip, Max had come to Jeremy and his family. They were good people and Jeremy was the closest friend, apart Maria and Isabel, that Max had.

Jeremy’s father was a close friend of Philip’s and he was surprised to see his son on his doorstep. And, although Max didn’t doubt for a minute that he was the one who called his dad, Jeremy’s father had let him to stay until ‘he is calm enough to talk with his Dad’.

Max went into his room (one of Jeremy’s family’s guest rooms) and sat down on the bed, taking his head in hands.

And once again Max thought about what he was going to do.

There was a knock at the door and a moment after Jeremy appeared, “Hey,” he said quietly. “How did your talk go?”

Max sighed, “He wants me to go back home.”

“And?”

“I won’t,” Max replied.

Jeremy thought for a moment, “Are you sure you’re making the right decision?”

Max nodded, “Yeah, I’m sure. There is no way back now.”

“It’s going to be hard.”

“I know.”

“What are you going to do?” Jeremy asked, it was a question to which Max desperately wanted to know the answer.

“I don’t know right now,” Max replied honestly. “I’m tired from thinking about this, I will think about it tomorrow.”

Jeremy nodded. “Fine. But you know you can stay here as long as you want, right?” he asked.

Max smiled, “Yes, thank you.”

“Come on, you’re thanking me....again!” Jeremy cried.

“Fine, then...tell me something good,” Max suggested.

Jeremy sighed, “I’m in love with Elizabeth Parker,”

Max frowned slightly, he knew Jeremy had gone on a few dates with Liz, but…love? Was Liz his girlfriend? Did she love him back?

“Oh, t-that’s great, Jeremy,” Max put a fake smile. Jeremy was his friend and Max felt bad that he couldn’t share his happiness. “I-Is she your girlfriend?” Max asked, fearing the answer.

Jeremy’s smile disappeared, “No, not yet,” he emphasized the word ‘yet’. “But she will be, I know she will,” he smiled again.

Max was confused, “How do you know it so well?”

“She loves me,” Jeremy replied and he probably didn’t even suspect that these three simple words shattered Max’s heart.

“S-She does?”

“Yes,” Jeremy confirmed. “Liz and I...we are going to be together. I know she loves me and I love her, what more I can wish for?” he asked with a grin.

Max gulped, was Liz really lost to him?

[Erina]

Hi. Thanks for your patience. I've started again writing this story, but I can't promise how regular the updates will be. I got really sick a couple of days ago and thus I missed one exam and now I will have two exams on Monday and less free time to write in the next days etc. I have part 17 ready, so it won't be months before next update. Enjoy!



Part 16

Liz smiled brightly as Michael hugged her.

“I’m so proud of you, Liz,” he whispered softly in her ear. “You are so smart and bright…and beautiful, Liz,” he said emotionally and Liz could swear he was barely holding his tears.

“Smile!” their mother exclaimed and they heard the photo being taken. “You two are so adorable. I can’t believe that both my children have graduated high–school; the time goes by so fast,” she wiped away a tear.

Jeff laughed, “Come on, Nancy, let’s say hello to the Andersens,” he motioned her towards another couple and they left Michael and Liz alone.

“So,” Liz said. “I thought you wanted to ask Maria to come to my graduation?” she asked and raised an eyebrow. “You what, chickened out? Again?”

Michael shook his head. “No, but she couldn’t be here today. Her friend, Max...You know Max, right?” he asked, not even suspecting Liz’s true feelings.

Liz nodded. “Yes, I’ve met him a couple of times,” she replied tightly, but Michael didn’t pay attention to Liz’s sudden change.

“Well, apparently his graduation is today as well and she couldn’t be in two places at the same time,” he chuckled.

“Besides,” he added. “She isn’t very comfortable about meeting you. She mumbled something about first impressions and how she had ruined it all when you caught us in my bed.”

Liz smiled warmly. “Tell her not to worry about it,” she reassured him. “I already think highly of her, because of your feelings.”

“Thanks, Liz,” he smiled back. “You are the best sister in the world, you know that, right? You have graduated and you are going to leave Roswell soon, what I’m going to do without you, huh?” he asked.

“Hmm, don’t know,” Liz pretended to think about it. “I’m not sure who is going to be around to catch you in bed with your girlfriend now, since I will be gone soon. Perhaps Mom…?”

“Liz!” Michael cried. “I don’t want even to think about that.”

Liz just laughed at the expression on her brother’s face; she would miss moments like these. She would miss her entire family.

She noticed another blonde girl approaching them, with a bright smile on her face.

“Liz!” Tess said happily. “We did it! No more school!” she almost yelled and Liz was actually glad that people around them were chatting non-stop and no one turned attention to Tess’ behaviour.

No one, except Michael.

“Hey,” he grumbled, obviously displeased. “I know that you’re happy that from now on you won’t have to study and you will be able to spend your days shopping, doing your nails and irritating your boyfriend, but not everyone is just like you,” he said.

Liz was embarrassed. “Michael,” she said. Perhaps he didn’t like Tess, but why he was so...obvious about it?

“That’s okay, Liz,” Tess said coldly, while looking at Michael. “I don’t care what he thinks about me.”

Tess turned her attention back to Liz again; “I actually wanted to talk with you about something. “Without Michael,” she added pointedly.

Michael rolled his eyes. “I’m going to find mom and dad; we’ll wait for you outside,” he said and disappeared in the crowd.

When Liz turned back to Tess, the blonde girl was smiling again.

“Liz! Are you ready for the night of your life?” she asked obviously excited.

Liz frowned. The night of her life? What did Tess have in mind?

“What are you talking about?”

Tess squealed, “We are going to a party tonight!!!”

Liz shook her head. “Hmm, I don’t think so. My parents, Michael and I are going to a restaurant to celebrate graduation; I can’t go to a party,” she declined.

“Aww, Liz, you’re no fun,” Tess pretended to pout, but broke into a smile again a moment later. “Besides I talked to your folks and they’re letting me take you out tonight. Your Mom said you have been working and studying so hard lately, that you deserve a break,” the blonde girl explained.

Liz still wasn’t so sure about it. She usually didn’t like the parties Tess usually went to, “I’m not sure...”

“Come on, Liz. You have to live for once. I promise you’ll like this party. Jeremy’s parents are organizing it and Max will be there. Jeremy will be there. Everyone will be there, you have to come!”

Liz remembered when months ago, Tess had pleaded her to go to Max’s birthday party and now her best friend was asking her to go to a party, where she apparently would meet Max again. And Jeremy.

“Tess, you remember that Jeremy and I kind of broke up, right?” she asked. “And now you want me to go to his house, to his party?”

Tess nodded, “Don’t worry about Jeremy, he won’t cause you any problems. In fact, I have even talked to him and he wants you to be there.”

In the end, Liz had to agree. She knew that Tess would plead and beg with her until she said yes.

“Ok, fine, Tess. Let’s go to the party,” Liz agreed.

“Woo-hoo!” Tess shrieked and hugged her best friend. “I knew I could count on you!”

Liz just nodded. She would be at the same party as Max and Jeremy. And Tess. She was feeling awkward already.

[Erina]

Thanks for the feedback!

Part 17

Max was smiling, but inside he was anything but happy. On the one hand, he had graduated high school today, but on the other hand, he had left his home and his family.

His father was smiling proudly and chatting with the other parents, completely pretending that everything was fine between him and his son.

Max shook his head in disgust. His father clearly cared much more about what people thought than about his own family.

“Congratulations, Max,” said Maria, hugging him.

“Thanks,” Max returned, a little bit sad that he would soon be leaving Roswell and his friends.

But would he leave for Harvard?

“How are you?” Maria asked. “Isabel told me about you and your Dad...and I’m sorry, Max.”

Max smiled, “What for? It wasn’t your fault. I guess it was something that was bound to happen,” he shrugged.

He smiled wider when he noticed his sister, “Isabel, I’m so happy to see you,” Max hugged her. “How are you?”

“Fine, Max, everything’s fine,” she replied.

„And Dad?”

Isabel sighed, “Dad is...just Dad,” she said. “Somehow I had expected that he would throw things and yell at everyone, but he hasn’t. Dad is calm and quiet actually. He didn’t actually talk much until this morning, when he came down for breakfast, all smiling and talking how proud he was about you,” she explained. “But he is being creepy,” she added. “He probably has something in his mind,”

Max nodded. His father wouldn’t change his opinion about Max or his future.

“Hey,” they all turned to see Jeremy, who had appeared beside them. “How is everyone on this beautiful day?” he asked.

Max just forced a tight smile. He was grateful that Jeremy’s parents were letting him live in their house, but lately Max didn’t want to be around Jeremy anymore. He hadn’t been able to forget the way Jeremy had told him that Liz loved him.

And why did it bother him so much? He should be happy that his best friend was happy...sort of.

“So, is everyone coming to the party tonight?” Jeremy asked.

Isabel and Maria said ‘yes’, while Max just nodded.

“I just talked to Tess on the phone,” Jeremy said and Max frowned. He didn’t know that the two of them were friends.

“She and Liz are going to be there tonight as well,” he said, not noticing Max’s frown.

“Liz as in Liz Parker, right?” Maria asked.

Both Jeremy and Max nodded at the same time. “Yes,” Jeremy confirmed. “You know her?”

Maria shook her head. “No, no...I just remember that her family, opened a new restaurant a few months ago,” she explained.

“Well, I’m off now, still have a lot to do for tonight,” Jeremy said and walked away.

“I have to go as well, I need to make a few phone calls and… well, see you later,” Maria said and went away as well, leaving Max and Isabel alone.

Max was still deep in thought about Liz and the up-coming party, that he almost didn’t hear Isabel question.

“So, you and the Parker girl, huh?” she smirked at the obvious discomfort in Max’s face when she said those words.

“It’s not what you think,” Max quickly denied.

“And what do I think?”

“W-Well, Tess is her best friend and she was my girlfriend. And Jeremy is my best friend and he went out with Liz, b-but Liz and I...we are not together! We have never been together,” said Max quickly.

Isabel smiled at her older brother, he was obviously nervous. “But you like her, don’t you?” she asked.

Max nodded, “Yes, but...it’s complicated,” he sighed. “There are Tess and Jeremy in our way and....I’m not even sure she likes me.”

“I mean, Jeremy is pretty sure that he is the one she loves, what can I do about that?” he added.

“So?” Isabel raised an eyebrow. “That’s all? You don’t want to try just because Jeremy is pretty sure Liz loves him? I thought you were smarter than that, Max,” she laughed.

“Ha, ha,” mocked Max. “You can laugh, but I’m going to have a miserable evening tonight. I will have to watch Jeremy trying to get Liz back and Tess will be there as well,” he sighed.

“It is perfect,” Isabel pointed out. “You obviously like her and why don’t try? At least talk to her, see if she likes you,”

“I don’t know, Is,” Max shook his head. “What can I offer her at this stage? I’m out of my home and I’m not sure what to do with my life,” he said.

Isabel laughed. “I’m not asking you to marry her, just talk to the girl,” she pleaded. “Sometimes you are so hopeless.”

“Son,” they both heard Philip’s voice. “Congratulations,” he said, smiling widely.

“Thanks, Dad,” Max said without emotions. “I’m glad you came,” he said.

“Of course I came; my only son is graduating high-school,” Philip laughed.

Max didn’t say anything.

Philip came closer to Max. “When are you going to stop fooling around and come home?” he whispered, still smiling.

“I’m not,” Max said.

Max saw as his father’s face turned red and Max could swear that he was barely controlling his anger and frustration.

A moment passed and Philip had collected himself, smiling again. “I’m coming to the party tonight. You and I are going to talk about this tonight for the final time,” he said, before storming away.

[Erina]

Thanks for the feedback!

The Party Begins!


Part 18

Liz laughed again what seemed for the hundredth time that evening. She and Tess had arrived at the party an hour ago and so far they had spent the last hour together, laughing and just hanging out.

Liz had yet to see Jeremy or Max, although she was glad about that since she didn’t know what to say or how to act around either of them.

“So,” Tess said, “You haven’t changed your mind about Harvard, right?”

Liz shook her head, “No, absolutely not. I got in and in a month I’m leaving for Boston. I will have enough time to settle in and perhaps find a part-time job, if I’m lucky.”

Tess winced, “Job? Why do you need a job? Get your diploma first, you will be able to work for all your life then.”

“I can’t let my parents pay for everything,” Liz laughed softly. “My Dad said the same thing as you and my mother said that they both had worked so hard in their lives that now they want to give their children some freedom. That I don’t have to worry about money while studying, but...it’s just not me.” Liz sighed.

“Well, if you think so,” Tess agreed unwillingly.

“What about you?” Liz asked and took a sip of her drink, “You wanted to go to Boston University, so we could be roommates,” she pointed out.

“Me? University?” Tess laughed, “No, I have changed my mind in the last few months. I’ve had enough of studying, so I won’t go to Boston in the fall.”

“What?” Liz frowned. She had thought that she and Tess would go to Boston together in the fall. She knew that the blonde could easily change her mind, but...so easily?

“I want to get married,” Tess said dreamily. “Be Mrs. Evans,” she added.

Liz’s frown deepened. “I thought you said that you and Max are kind of separate at the moment,” she asked.

“No,” the blonde denied. “We were just taking a break from each other, so we could concentrate on finishing school.”

“I’m sure Max realizes that I’m the best for him,” Tess added.

A moment later both Liz and Tess saw Max and Jeremy coming in the room.

Tess stood up. “Well, gotta go now. Talk to Jeremy, Liz; perhaps all is not lost for you and him. See ya later,” the blonde called and walked towards Max.

Liz saw as she said a few words to him and they both disappeared off somewhere.

She sighed. Somehow she had expected them to break up, but apparently she had just been hoping.

“Hi, Liz,” Jeremy appeared at her side.

Liz inwardly groaned, but put on a fake smile. He hadn’t done anything bad to deserve a rude attitude from her. “Hi,” she replied politely.

“I’m glad you came,” he smiled.

Liz nodded. “Thanks for inviting me,” she said, “I know our break – up was awkward and...”

“That’s okay, Liz,” Jeremy interrupted her. “I’m not stupid, I got the fact that you don’t want to be with me, but I’d like us to stay friends in spite of everything,” he added.

Liz just nodded, not sure if the friendship with Jeremy was a good thing.

~ ~ ~

Max groaned when Tess approached him as soon as he had appeared at the party. He had seen she and Liz talking and he couldn’t help but think that Liz looked so beautiful tonight.

“Hi, Tess,” Jeremy greeted the blonde. “Ok, I will let the two of you talk, I see Liz,” he said and left Max and Tess alone.

And that wasn’t something Max wanted.

“What do you want, Tess?” he asked.

“What? No hello kiss?” Tess pouted. “I just want to talk with you. Please? I promise I will leave you alone then,” she pleaded.

“Do you promise?” Max asked.

Tess nodded, “Yes, I promise,” she confirmed. “I just want to say some last words to you before you decide completely that we aren’t good as a couple.”

“Ok, let’s go,” Max said and led them to his room.

“There,” he said as he closed the door, “We can talk undisturbed here. So talk,” he instructed.

Tess sighed; this wasn’t going to be as easy as she had hoped.

“How are you?” she asked.

“I’m good,” replied Max. “But I don’t see any reason why you be should asking me this,” he pointed out.

“I’m concerned about you,” Tess shrugged, “I heard that you had left home and that you’re now living here,” she said. “I guess your Dad isn’t taking it well, huh?” she asked.

“No, he isn’t,” replied Max. “But once again, Tess, why are you talking about my Dad? You wanted to have one last conversation, so talk and let’s get it over with,”

“Fine,” Tess snapped. “I just wanted to help you, that’s all!”

“Help me?”

Tess smiled and came closer, placing a hand on Max’s shoulder.

“Just think about it. If you and me announce our engagement, perhaps your Dad will leave you alone. We could merge our properties and I would run them, while you could study and be a doctor,” she explained and leaned forward and whispered into his ear, “All you’d have to do is ... be with me,”

Max shuddered and pushed Tess away. “You are sick if you think I will be with you just because of my Dad,” he said and opened the door. “This conversation is over.”

[Erina]

Thanks for the feedback!!!


The party goes on...


Part 19


When Tess came out of Max’s room, she was fuming. How dare he turn her down? Didn’t he understand she was the best for him?

She ran into someone. “Hey! Watch where....” she shrieked, but then she noticed whom she had run into. “It’s you,” she said.

The other person just merely nodded, “How did it go?”

“Bad. He turned my plan down,” Tess replied.

“Damn,” he cursed. “He is more stubborn than I thought,” he admitted. “What we are going to do?”

Tess looked around. “Not here, let’s go somewhere private,” she suggested.

He nodded, “You’re right. Come on, I know a place where no one will disturb us.”

~ ~ ~

Max shook his head in disgust. He didn’t know Tess could stoop that low. Did she really think he would marry her just to get his Dad off his back? Did she think that low of him?

Once again, Max thanked God that he had decided to break up with her. Tess clearly wasn’t the person he once thought she was.

He went back into the living room. He hadn’t wanted to attend the party, but his desire to see and talk with Liz was stronger than his dislike of parties.

Max quickly scanned the living room, which was full of drunk, wild students, and was disappointed when he didn’t see her immediately. On the other hand, he was glad she wasn’t here, in this crowd, where she could easily be hurt.

In the next few minutes, Max quickly ran through the entire house, his disappointment growing. He couldn’t find her and he was afraid she had already left.

Perhaps Tess had come out and taken Liz with her back to Roswell?

Defeated, Max decided to go back and lock himself in his room. If he hadn’t the chance to talk with Liz, he didn’t want to spend the rest of the evening with people he didn’t know.

Max was surprised to see someone wandering in the hall, not far from his room.

Liz.

“Liz?” he asked, clearly surprised to see her in this end of the house.

“Oh, hi Max!” Liz said nervously.

When Jeremy had left her, Liz had noticed how wild the crowd had become and had decided to search for a place more peaceful. She had gone in the same direction as Tess, hoping to find the blonde girl.

But instead Liz had found something better. Max.

“H-how are you?” Max asked and he wiped his hands against his jeans. Damn, why he was so nervous around her?

“Good,” Liz replied quickly. “You?”

“Not bad,” Max replied and cursed again himself for not being able to speak around her. “Liz, can we talk?” he asked, finally gathering all the courage he could find.

Liz nodded, “Sure.”

Max smiled. “Perhaps we can go outside? It’s warm tonight,” he suggested, not wanting to take her to his room, where he and Tess had been talking not so long ago. And talking in the hallway didn’t appeal him as well.

“Sure, I’d love that,” Liz replied and allowed Max to take her out.

Liz gasped when they finally came out onto one of the terraces and saw the many stars in the sky. Liz had never seen a moon that bright.

“It’s so beautiful out here,” she said truthfully.

Max nodded, mesmerized by the sight of Liz in the moonlight. “It is,” he agreed. “I found this terrace a couple of night ago, but then it wasn’t so beautiful as tonight,” he said. Because Liz wasn’t with him, Max thought to himself.

He smiled when he suddenly realized something. In that place and at that time, Max Evans realized that he had fallen in love with Liz Parker. He didn’t know much about her, but apparently it was more than enough to make him fall in love with her.

He knew he’d had feelings towards her for a while now, but he’d pushed them away and was trying to ignore them. Liz, after all, was his girlfriend’s (now ex-girlfriend’s) best friend. But somehow Max didn’t care anymore.

He was in love with Liz Parker!

Liz blushed when she realized how intensely Max was watching her. “So, how have you been?” she asked, really wanting to know more about him.

Max shrugged. “Not sure if you know, but I broke up with Tess,” he said.

Liz merely smiled, “Yes, Tess told me, but she was convinced it was only for some time.”

Max shook his head, “She is wrong,” he said. “I don’t have any intention of getting back together with her,”

“Oh. It’s going to break her heart,” Liz said. On one hand, she was kind of glad that Max didn’t want to be with Tess, but on the other hand, Tess was her friend. And Liz knew that Max’s decision would break Tess’ heart.

“But I can’t change my decision because of that,” Max said. “She isn’t the person I want to be with and....I don’t have feelings for her anymore, perhaps I never had,” Max said, realizing that his feelings towards Liz were much deeper.

“Have you told her about your feelings?” Liz asked.

“Yes, many times, but she doesn’t want to listen.”

Max changed the subject. “Have you thought about our kiss, Liz?” he asked.

Liz eyes widened at the sudden change. One moment they were talking about Tess and now...

Unable to find the words, Liz nodded.

Max stepped closer. “Do you like me, Liz?” he asked. “Because I can’t help but like you. A lot,” he whispered and softly touched her hair, “I know it’s crazy to feel like this, especially because we barely know each other, but...I can’t fight against myself anymore. I like you, Liz Parker,” he said, before lowering his lips to hers.

While Max and Liz were wrapped in tight embrace, their lips fused together, they didn’t notice Philip Evans coming out of the shadows.

[Erina]

Thanks for the feedback! Mr. Evans is evil, but you all just don't know how evil.


The party goes on.....


Part 20


“Max!” Philip called, trying to get his son’s attention.

At first Philip had smirked when he had seen Max and the brunette, the Parker girl. He didn’t imagine Max had it for the Parkers’ girl. That information could be handy in the future, he thought.

Max and Liz immediately pulled away from each other, breathless from their kiss.

Damn, Max thought. He had kissed Liz twice now and both times someone interrupted them. First it was her father and now his own.

Max, realizing that both he and Liz were blushing furiously, tried to find his voice to speak to his father, “What do you want?”

Philip smirked and shook his head. “Is this the right way to talk to your father, Young man?” he laughed. “I hoped I had earned enough respect, for my son to at least say ‘hello’,” he pointed out.

Liz looked between father and son. It was obvious that something was seriously wrong between them, but Tess hadn’t mentioned anything.

“Perhaps it would be better if I go inside the house?” Liz suggested.

Max quickly nodded, especially when he noticed the way his father was looking at Liz, lingering in certain places. “Sure, can you wait for me in the hallway we met in earlier?” he asked.

Liz nodded and walked into the house. Max sighed. He was glad that at least Liz was out of his father’s sight.

“So, I didn’t know you had it for Elizabeth,” Philip sneered. “Now I understand your sudden break-up with Tess. Well, Elizabeth is not so bad either. Have you slept with her? I bet she...”

Max didn’t even think twice before his fist connected with Philip’s face, hitting him with a force Max didn’t even know he had. He wouldn’t let anyone talk about Liz like that. Not even his father.

Philip stumbled backwards, but remained on two feet.

“Well, I guess I better not talk about her, huh?” he half-laughed, rubbing his jaw painfully.

Max just stood, his body tense. Had everyone gone out of their minds tonight? First Tess and her absurd idea and now his Dad was talking about Liz disrespectfully.

When Max didn’t answer him, Philip continued. “Anyway, this wasn’t why I came here today. I don’t want to fight with you, son. Instead I want to give you one last chance to come home,” he said.

“I’m not coming home, I have said it over and over again,” Max said angrily.

“Max, Max, Max...You’re young, what are you going to do without my support?” Philip smirked. “You won’t be able to survive. You and your sister are used to money, it’s not so easy to live without it,” he said.

“I’m not coming back,” repeated Max.

Philip didn’t back off. “And what about Elizabeth? What will you be able to offer her, when you won’t have enough to support even yourself, huh?” he challenged. “Who will want you then, Max?”

Max didn’t change his mind, “I’ll live.”

The smirk disappeared from Philip’s face. “Is this your final word? Because I have to warn you, I won’t let you live in peace,” he said. “I’m a powerful man and I’m going to use every connection I have to make your life miserable from now on. Every job you find, I’m going to make it impossible for you to get it. You won’t get an apartment. You won’t get anything, Max, is that what you want?” he yelled, his rage coming out. “Is this your final word?”

“Yes!” Max yelled back.

“Then I don’t know you, I don’t have a son anymore,” Philip said and shooting Max one last look, stormed away.

Max remained on the terrace, shaking with anger and shock. He hadn’t suspected that his father could be that evil, but Max feared that this was only the beginning and that he would truly hold his word and make Max’s life miserable.

When Max heard footsteps behind him, he flinched, but when he felt her hand on his shoulder, comforting him, he relaxed.

“I thought I told you go away,” he said quietly.

“I couldn’t,” Liz replied.

Liz hadn’t gotten far away when she had heard Philip’s first remark about her. Then she couldn’t leave and in the end she had heard the entire conversation.

Although Liz wouldn’t call it a conversation; it was anything but civil.

“Thank you,” Liz said. “For defending me.”

Max turned around. “No, Liz. I have to thank you. For staying,” he said.

When Liz noticed the broken look in Max’s eyes, she wrapped her arms around him and Max welcomed her comfort.

“Thank you,” he whispered again.

Liz just held him, even when his own arms wrapped her body and pulled her closer.

~ ~ ~

“Where are they?” Tess cried frustrated as she noticed Jeremy coming. “Did you find Liz?” she asked.

Jeremy shook his head. “No, I couldn’t see her or Max,” he replied.

“They couldn’t just disappear,” Tess said.

“By the way, Tess, are you sure you want to be with Max?” Jeremy asked. “After all, he is basically homeless and without Philip’s support he is nothing. You are used to luxury, I can’t imagine you being a wife to some poor student,” he laughed.

“Stop it,” she smacked his shoulder.

“Don’t worry about me and Max,” she added, “After all, Max perhaps doesn’t care about himself much, but...if his unborn child is at stake, he would have to take his father’s support,” Tess grinned, while rubbing her belly.

Jeremy shocked looked at her, “Are you...?”