Roswell Fanatics

Chapter 11

At 11o’clock that same evening Liz found herself in a small but crowded bar on the outskirts of Dallas, Texas. She sat at a round table, nursing a diet coke, tapping her foot to the beat and taking notes on the “The Whits” as they played on the small stage. She was very impressed with the band.

The singer, Maria Deluca, had a Janis Joplin like voice and the quirky style of Gwen Stefani. The lead guitarist, Alex Whitman had a nerdy cuteness that was very in at the moment, and he played like a pro. The base guitarist was passable - they were interchangeable anyway, and the drummer, Tommy Owens, kept a good tempo and beat. She’d have to have him lose the sunglasses though - too eighties - he was trying to hard.

Overall they had a great sound, she’d loved each original tune they’d played - she wondered which one was the song writer. And they knew how to work a crowd - just as they were now. It was the last song of their set and instead of playing an original, Maria was belting out a remake of Alan Jackson’s “God Bless Texas.” Those on the dance floor and the bar were eating it up.

God Bless Texas with His own hand
Brought down angels from the promise land
Gave em’ a place where they could dance
If wanna see heaven baby, here’s your chance
I’ve been sent to spread the message
God bless Texas!

The crowd finished the last line with her and then erupted into claps and cheers. Liz couldn’t help but clap herself as a smile spread across her face. They were going to be big.

Maria said her thank-you and good nights to the crowd, grabbed two bottles of water from the bar, and then sat down next to Alex, across from the pretty brunette from Langley Productions and Management, who had contacted them just that afternoon. She was quaking with excitement down to her bones - this was it - she knew it. This was the break they’d been waiting for since they were fifteen.

Liz spoke first, “Fucking fantastic. You guys were great up there.” Instead of speaking to all members of the band, Liz had elected to just talk with Maria and Alex. She could tell right away that they were the core of the band - Alex - he was the heart and Maria - she was the soul. The other two members didn’t seem to mind anyway, as they appeared to be chatting up two of the locals at the bar.

Liz had had this conversation before, she knew exactly how to play a prospective client - not that they needed much convincing to sign with her - her company’s reputation spoke for itself in this industry.

“So, do you guys have any plans for Monday?” The two friends replied in the negative. “Good, I’d like to get you in the studio then. How do mornings work for you?”

“You want us to get in the studio?” Maria parroted.

“Of course. We’d like you to start recording your first cd right away.” Liz responded with a smile.

Maria grabbed Alex by the arm, her eyes wide, “Oh my God Alex!! This is it - we’re gonna be rock stars!!”

Alex tried to put on a calm façade, despite being just as excited as Maria, he said, “Easy Deluca, easy.” He turned to Liz and tried to sound business savvy, “Exactly what kind of deal are you offering us?”

Liz presented a hand written contract that would be typed up later, “Langley Productions is offering you a two album deal with the option, our option, for a third. We’ll cover all costs and expenses regarding your stay in LA to record those albums. We will promote and distribute those albums. We will be responsible for managing, booking and promoting any and all appearances of “The Whits” from this point on. We are a full service company with composers and lyricists on staff, as well as film and television departments should you decide you want to branch out into those venues, with our guidance, at a later date.”

As Liz spoke, Maria and Alex perused the contract. When Maria saw the amount they were to be paid for the initial two albums, she pointed at it with her finger, to show Alex, mouthed OH MY GOD to him, and punched him in the arm in her excitement.

As Liz’s words fully penetrated her mind, Maria asked, “Wait, you said composers and lyricists - we write our own songs.”

Ah, Liz thought, realizing the two in front of her were not just performers looking to be famous, but artists who cared about their finished product. “And you do so beautifully. You’re not required to use our writers, though I have seen some material recently that I think you’d be interested in. But from what I heard tonight, you guys write great stuff, and I’m sure we can come to an agreement as to what tracks will be included on the first album. So…do we have a deal?”

Maria and Alex looked at each other and then looked at Liz across the table, simultaneously they said, “Deal” and stuck out their hands to shake. Liz laughed and shook Maria’s hand with her right and Alex’s with her left, so that, just for a moment, the three were joined by the hands in a circle.

“Fabulous,” Liz concluded, “So I’ll book our flight to LA for the morning, we’ll get you guys settled and I’ll set up some studio time first thing on Monday. How’s that sound?”

“Amazing, perfect! It sounds really great, really really…” Maria’s brow wrinkled as she remembered something, “…oh, not good - no that won’t work.” She turned to Alex - “We have the fundraiser tomorrow night.”

“Fundraiser?”

Alex explained, “Yeah - each year we do this little fundraiser at a local bar in our hometown. We play all night for free, and the owner donates half the night’s profits to Roswell Memorial Hospital.”

“Roswell? Really? That’s where you guys are from?”

“Unfortunately.” Maria answered.

“Well, now that you’re our clients, I don’t want you playing anymore rundown roadhouses and county fairs. We have an image we need to start cultivating here.” Liz explained.

“We do it every year and we can’t just back out now.”

“No, no that’s true.” Liz thought for a moment, “How about this. I’ll come with you to Roswell. I’m sure we have media contacts in the surrounding cities. I’ll call them, get some publicity out about the fundraiser, get something written up in the papers. The public loves charity events and celebrities who do them. Then, we’ll book our flights to LA for Sunday, get you guys settled and then get you in the studio for Tuesday. Sounds good?”

“Sound perfect.” Alex answered sealing the deal.

“Woooo Hoooo! Now we celebrate!” Maria exuberantly yelled.

“Have fun.” Liz said smiling. “I’ll see you in the morning. I’m just going to head back to the hotel.”

“What? No, no, you have to party with us.” Maria told her.

“I really shouldn’t.” Liz replied. She’d signed many a client and they all wanted to celebrate afterwards, however, it was important to Liz to maintain a businesslike relationship.

“You really should! Come on Chica - you just changed our lives here! You HAVE to have one drink with us. Don’t leave me to party alone with the four penises here.”

Liz laughed, “Okay, one drink.”

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

Two cosmopolitans later, Liz, Alex and Maria were exchanging stories from their childhood and home lives. Alex and Maria told of their friendship since practically birth. Liz told them her parents’ death and growing up in the LA. About all her and Kal’s traveling and the exotic places she’d seen. Maria told Liz about her father’s abandonment and her eccentric mother who’d finally agreed to marry her long time boyfriend, Jim, upon the condition of his retirement as sheriff of Roswell. Alex described his parents to Liz and the perpetual embarrassment of their horn-dogness. He illustrated his anxiety over inviting friends’ to their house (except Maria), due to his parents being still so in love after thirty years of marriage, that it was impossible to predict when they would be found making out, anywhere in the house, like teenagers.

Three shots of tequila later, and they were talking about sex. Maria described her first time behind the mess hall at band camp with a boy named Billy. She confessed that she actually liked doing it in cars - something about the danger of being caught really turned her on. Liz depicted her failed love life - from her first time with Jonathon, who cheated on her with her best friend the next day, to the latest - Steven and his awful kisses. She told them of her hope of finding her soul mate, someone she would “click” with, someone who would ignite an all consuming passion within her, she had yet to find. Alex acknowledged that it had been so long since he had “gotten any” that he feared his virginity would be reinstated.

Two beers after that, found the three new friends telling each other their dreams. For Maria, it was headlining Carnegie Hall, being respected for her musical talent and expertise. For Liz, surprisingly, it was a family. A stable, solid family life as successful as her career. A love so dependable she would finally be able to let go of her deep seeded fear of being deserted, of being left alone. Alex explained that his dreams were simple - making a living off his music, being financially stable, and settling down to marry his first love - the high school sweetheart he’d never been able to make his own.

Another shot of something - they no longer knew what they were drinking - later, the talking was done. Now they were dancing. Alex in the middle, Maria and Liz sandwiching him in, as they shook their hips, swiveled their heads and sang along to “Shake That” by Eminem. They danced until closing, and then at 3 am staggered back to their hotel which, thankfully was just across the street.

As Liz fell onto her bed, still fully clothed, she thought about her night. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d had so much fun. Alex and Maria were just great. She no longer cared that they were clients, they had dispersed with the professional relationship after that first shot of tequila. It was so easy for her to talk to them, she knew that if they had met at a different time, in a different place they would certainly have been the closest of friends. And that’s what she considered them now - even after just one night - her friends.

************************************************************************
The next morning found four band members and their manager lined up in chairs at the Dallas airport, sunglasses on, feeling like death and looking the part. The shrill ringing of Liz’s cell phone caused Maria to raise her head from Liz’s shoulder, where she’d been half asleep.

“Make it stop.” she croaked.

“Sshhh.” Alex, on her right begged, “You’re whispering too loud.”

“Hello” Liz moaned into the phone, feeling like she was going to throw up…again.

“Hey Liz.” It was Kal and he sounded so chipper, so cheerful. She hated him.

“Hey.” She mumbled in return.

“You okay? You sound terrible.”

“Hung over.” She answered.

“Ahh. Well, its like I’ve always told you, you want to play, you gotta pay.” He admonished with a chuckle in his voice.

“Thank you for that pearl of wisdom, oh sage of knowledge.” She replied monotone. “Did you just call to rub my yuckiness in my face?”

“No. You were supposed to call me remember? To let me know how things went with “The Whits.”

“Oh. Yeah.”

“So? How were they?”

“Amazing.”

“Great. So you’re bringing them to LA to get into the studio?” He asked as Liz seemed to have trouble elaborating.

“Yes. We’ll be there Monday. We have to make a small detour tonight into tomorrow - prior commitment.”

“What kind of commitment?’

“Charity thing. Small. Local. I’m gonna call the press when we land and put our spin on it.”

“Okay. Have a good flight to…Where’s the detour again?” Kal asked, just realizing she hadn’t told him.

“Roswell, New Mexico”

Unbeknownst to Liz, Kal was momentarily struck speechless by her answer.

“I gotta go, we’re boarding now. I’ll call you when we get into LAX, Sunday night - maybe Monday. Bye Kalvin.”

Regaining his ability to speak Kal tried, “Liz, wait…” But the line was already dead.

He quickly tried calling her back, but it went straight to voice mail.

No, no, no, no. Kal thought as he tried Liz’s cell again with the same outcome.

A voice, an order, that had never been far from Kal's thoughts, echoed in his mind.

“And Kal, make sure she stays away from Roswell.”

With no other outlet to vent his turmoil, Kal threw the phone across the room and yelled, “FUCK!”

Chapter 12

Kal Langley didn’t truly hate many things on earth. Senior citizen drivers annoyed him, they were too cautious, too slow, and always seemed to be in front of his car when he was late. Courtesy business calls were a nuisance, but with a staff of hired help in his home and his business, it was seldom that he was on the answering end of their sales pitches. Flying coach with its cramped quarters and screaming babies definitely got under his skin, but with his wealth and private jet it was a circumstance now easily avoided.

The weather was another story. He couldn’t control it, his money couldn’t alter it, and its fluctuations were unpredictable at times even to the most seasoned meteorologist. And it was the weather that was, at the moment, instilling the need to rip the few hairs on his progressively balding head, out in frustration.

After retrieving his self catapulted cell phone from the floor he contacted his pilot with instructions to have them in the air, out of New York with in the hour, only to arrive at the airport to find his flight delayed due to fog. Frigging fog. He was not a patient man by nature, and the urgency to get to Liz, to stop her from going to Roswell, that was thumping through his brain, transformed him into the most hostile and belligerent traveler his seasoned crew had ever dealt with.

Then, finally, after a few hours of delay, and another several spent in-air trekking across the country, he’d arrived in Roswell, only to have his most hated nemesis slap him in the face the moment he stepped out of the plane onto the runway.

The heat.

Kal hated the heat with a fiery passion of a thousand suns. Yes, yes, he lived in LA, California, not known to be the coolest of habitats on earth, but New Mexico heat was different. It was a dry, dusty inescapable hotness, that crawled down your throat, and took up residence throughout your body like a god-damn flaming parasite. In addition to the natural furnace like New Mexico environment, Kal’s alien physiology did not allow him to regulate his body temperature as humans could, so although he’d never been sick, he imagined that how he felt was akin to a human walking around with a perpetual fever. He was drowsy, grouchy, and so uncomfortable that he wanted to crawl out of his own skin. A feat, not impossible for him, but imprudent at the moment.

Once arriving at the Roswell airport, his next obstacle was finding transportation to The Whits’ charity event, the location of which was unknown to him. The only functional taxi company in Roswell, with all of its three cars, one of which was in the shop, was backed up. The teller informed him the wait for a taxi to pick him up could be two hours, which translated in reality to closer to three. He had more luck at the automobile rental agency at the airport. They had a purple tricked out Prius, with a broken air conditioner, which had been confiscated from a Mexican drug runner by the Roswell Police Department and sold at auction two years prior. But it was ready immediately.

Kal took it, and was currently driving 20 miles per hour, down the dark one lane highway, towards the center of Roswell, behind…you guessed it, a seventy-eight year old, poofy white haired grandma of four, who badly needed an update to her eye glass prescription.

“Screw it.” Kal said to himself, as he turned into the oncoming lane, to pass the granny as she honked and gave him the finger.

Approximately forty-seven seconds after getting in front of her and flooring the gas pedal, the familiar red and blue lights of a police cruiser appeared in his rear view mirror.

“You have got to be fucking kidding me.” He mumbled to himself as he pulled over.

The young, newly appointed sheriff stepped out of his patrol car, and cautiously approached the odd looking car. Normally, he wouldn’t pull an automobile over purely for its unusual appearance, but the color was what had first caught his attention. Then, when he observed the illegal pass the driver made, he’d gone in pursuit.

“License and registration please.” The officer directed firmly. Kal acquiesced the items without reply.

“California, huh? We don’t get many of your kind around here? Mind if I ask what business you seem to be in such a hurry to get to?”

Kal finally looked up into the blue eyes of the sheriff. He was young, couldn’t be more then twenty-five or six. Trying to sound polite, knowing confrontational would get him nowhere, he answered, “I’m a producer, maybe you’ve heard of me? Kal Langley of Kal Langley Productions and Management. There’s a local band I’d really like to sign, but the weather delayed my arrival. I’m just trying to make it to their show in time.”

“Kal Langley? No kidding?” The officer checked the man’s license again. He’d heard of the Hollywood producer and his company. “What’s the name of the band?”

“The Whits.”

The officer smiled, Maria would be over the moon. “Small world - that’s my step sister’s band.” He checked his watch, “They’re playing over at Bubba’s - probably got another hour or so to their set, I’d guess.”

“What a coincidence.” Kal responded his patience strained to the breaking point. Was this guy gonna let him go or what? He didn’t have time to chit-chat with sheriff…

“Valenti?” He didn’t realize at first that he’d said the name out loud. “You’re officer Valenti?” No frigging way, Kal thought, as the name brought memories screeching back. Memories Kal would have preferred to never think on again.

“Sheriff now, actually. My dad got married about a year and a half ago. The misses, Amy, didn’t want a cop for a husband, so he retired. He’s in security now, and I got elected in his place.” Kyle explained proudly. He had seen the recognition in Langley’s eyes when he’d said the name and assumed he’d somehow known his father.

“I knew a Valenti, awhile back. You’re too young for it to have been your father though.” Kal spoke before he could stop himself. Why was he telling the boy this? Why was he talking? Why wasn’t he knocking this kid out, flying into town to retrieve Liz, and getting the hell out of dodge before anyone knew he’d been there? The heat must be boiling his brain and making him stupid.

“That’d be my grand-dad then. He policed around here back in the sixties? You a buddy of his?” Kyle asked hesitantly, not wanting to degrade the man’s memory of the elder Valenti if he didn’t already know of his mental decay.

“I wouldn’t say friends exactly. I worked on a film set around here then. Just starting out. Your grandpa stopped by once in a while and we chatted it up,” Kal lied. “How’s he doin’ anyway?” He’d already stuck his foot in his mouth, Kal figured he might as well find out how much the kid knew.

“He passed on a few years back.” Kyle didn’t explain further, wanting to leave the specter of insanity and aliens buried with his grandfather.

“Sorry to hear about that. He was…he was a… decent man, your grand-dad.” Kal finished with a nod, hoping the comment of respect would get him going faster.

“Thank you for saying that.” Kyle responded as he handed the license and registration back. “Bubba’s is on Willow Street. Take the main drag in about seven miles, turn right on Willow and you can’t miss it on your left. Just take your time.” The officer in him warned.

“Thanks sheriff.” Kal sighed. Relieved that luck was finally going his way.

He started his car and carefully pulled back onto the road, driving only as fast as the speed limit allowed. He followed Kyle’s directions, parked half on the sidewalk, not intending on staying long. His biological directive to follow his King’s order, to keep Liz out of Roswell, was pulsing though his veins in an almost painful way, now that he was closer to his objective.

The part of him that loved Liz was just glad to have gotten here. For twenty five years he’d kept her safe. For twenty-five years he’d kept her away from anything other worldly about his life. He was simply Kalvin to her - her friend, her… father. He’d built their relationship on trust and love and respect as best as he could, knowing he’d never be able to, never want to tell her the truth about what he was. She would never think of him the same way again if she knew. He’d built and nurtured their relationship as if it was the only thing that really mattered in his life. And the truthfully, it was the only thing that mattered to him. Fate wouldn’t be so cruel as to take it away from him now.

Kal walked inside the noisy, smoky bar and found it packed with people, shoulder to shoulder. Liz had said the event was small, but to the people of Roswell, it must be a happening occasion. He gingerly pushed his way through the crowd, his eyes searching, scanning for her brown hair, her gentle smile. Where was she? Where was she?

Making his way around the bar, he spotted her. She was in the front, by the stage, laughing and talking to a dark haired man he couldn’t see, as she pushed a lock of her hair behind her ear. The alien and the parent within Kal flooded with relief. The sight of her - safe, whole, happy, was a like a cooling balm to the burning anxiety that had consumed him since she’d hung up from him that morning. He’d found her. Finally.

And now he would get her out of here. He would go to her and they would leave together, even if he had to toss her over his shoulder like a cave man. Kal was calm as he went towards her, all the fear he’d been holding in for the last long hours at last released.

He took two steps in Liz’s direction.

Then he heard the gun shots.

Sorry this took so long - damn computer has been flaking out on me!

But here's a little part that will catch you up on what the Roswell gang's been doin' the last 9 years.
Thanks for all your feedback - honestly with this being my first fic - most of the parts i post seem not so good - but hearing you guys liking them makes just hop back on my computer and write more! When the damn thing is working that is!
Wench on a Leash - Aww - Thank you so much!

Chapter 13

“Roswell Memorial, this is EMS242, we are transporting a GSW to the abdomen. We are currently working to stabilize, our ETA is four minutes. Do you copy?

“Copy that 242, we’ll be ready. Proceed to ambulance bay. Roswell Memorial out.”

“Roger. 242 out.”

The nurse received and responded to the EMS call radioed into the triage station. She quickly paged the surgical ward, knowing a consult would be needed for this type of injury. She usually worked on the surgical floor, but she just happened to be filling in in the emergency room tonight, when the call came in. It had been a slow night up until then.

She swiftly crossed to the lounge to inform the attending physician of the incoming patient. She poked her head in the door. “Dr. Shellow, we have a gun shot wound to the abdomen coming in, about three minutes.”

Dr. Doug Shellow looked up from the charts he’d been reviewing and answered, “Okay Tess, we’ll put them in exam two. I’ll meet you in the bay.”

He donned a fresh pair of latex gloves and walked to the ambulance bay doors to await the incoming patient. When Doug Shellow first decided to specialize in emergency room medicine, he saw himself one day heading a top notch team in one of the bustling urban medical facilities. LA, Chicago, maybe even New York. After graduating in the second half of his class, however, the offers from the big hospitals hadn‘t come. He’d never anticipated his years of study and training would be, as he saw it, wasted, at a relatively small and mundane complex like Roswell Memorial. The cases that came in were routine and the hospital itself was hardly on the cutting edge of medical technology. But, they had offered him an attending position and, lacking other offers, he thought it too much a gamble not to accept. Still, this was not the life he had imagined.

Nurse Tess Harding stood next to Dr. Shellow, also awaiting the arrival of the gunshot victim. As dissatisfied as he was, she was equally content with her choice of profession and place of employment. It was the most rewarding aspect of her life, in fact.

She had never considered nursing as a possible career path, until that day at Michael’s apartment, when Nasedo had summoned them all for an important meeting.

It was September of their senior year, almost the time to start applying for college. Nasedo had gathered them to discuss their future, explaining that while the Granolith was still out of reach, the four of them would have to continue merging into human society by either finding suitable jobs or continuing their education towards a specific career. He further reminded them that whatever they chose, it was the utmost importance that they all remain in Roswell. It had been like a guidance counseling meeting in the twilight zone.

For Michael, Nasedo had suggested painting. Not just the house painting that he had been doing for years, but artistic painting. He’d noticed Michael’s genuine skill in this area, and their was an art school in an adjacent town. Since then, Michael had kept his identity anonymous from the public, when he had one small, but successful art exhibit in a local gallery.

Isabel had decided to study law, as both her parents had. She had attended Las Cruces University, with Tess and Max, finished law school in Albuquerque, and was currently working at her father’s firm in town.

As for Max, Nasedo had thought he would be particularly successful as a physician. It took them all off guard because although Max could heal with his powers, none of them really thought of him as a healer. But Max had agreed. His ability to heal gave him natural instincts when it came to the workings of the human body. He had a sixth sense, even when not actually utilizing his powers, about what was involved in an injury and what needed to be done to correct it. Coupled with his photographic memory, medical school had been almost easy for Max, and he’d graduated early, in the top five of his class.

It was then that Tess had chosen to become a nurse. Although she’d suspected Max would use his alien powers sparingly - if at all - nursing would allow her to work with him, and thus be there to cover up for him if necessary. It was also, for her a sort of penance. Helping humans who were sick, or wounded alleviated some of the guilt she still carried from the Grant Sorrenson incident. She’d never told the others, but she couldn’t let go of the fact that it had been her who had actually caused the death and although she couldn’t undo it, preventing death in others lessened her regret.

Tess broke out of her reverie as she heard the approaching ambulance sirens. When they pulled up two EMS workers opened the back doors, and wheeled the critical patient, on a gurney, into the exam area. Tess checked the IV line started by the EMS, cut the clothes away from the patient’s body, and began to suction and swab the vast amount of blood pouring from the gaping hole in the patient’s stomach so that the doctors could have a clear view injured area. The EMS workers rattled off stats - female, twenty-five years of age, blood pressure, oxygen levels.

“Her father rode in the bus with us,” one explained, “Name’s Liz Parker. Couldn’t get any other info from him though - he was pretty distressed.

Tess glanced at the waiting area and saw a middle aged man, his shirt covered in blood, arguing and being held back by security. Family members were not permitted in the exam area, and obviously the girl’s father was having a difficult time accepting that. Most of them did.

Tess was calm and efficient - she’d seen things like this before - as she set about complying with Shellow’s orders for the standard tests in a case like this.

A soft breeze blew into the exam room as the double doors were pushed open and Tess’ fiancé strode in, a demur surgical intern behind him. For a split second Tess was struck by his handsomeness as his white coat reflected his dark good looks. She just couldn’t help it, he was the epitome of the dashing young doctor. He took the clipboard from Shellow’s hands and asked no one in particular, “What have we got?”

Offended, Shellow snatched the chart back, “Excuse me, Doctor Evans, I’m in charge of this case.” Shellow couldn’t stand Max Evans. Part of his dislike stemmed from the man’s condescending arrogance. Like every other surgeon he’d ever met, Evans was aloof and clinical, with a huge ego. The other part of his disdain came from the fact that his ego was supremely well founded - he was amazing with a scalpel - and the administration’s golden boy. Although he was a second year resident, his skills in the OR were unsurpassed, and even the surgical attendings deferred to him. The fact that Evans’ was a few years his junior made him resent him all the more - that and that Evan’s could care less how Shellow or anyone else felt about him. His was good at what he did, and he liked to make sure other doctor’s knew that.

“Oh, I’m sorry,” Max replied his brow furrowing in mock confusion, “So you’ll be the one opening this patient up and removing the bullet which is obviously,” he gestured to the flowing blood, and descending heart monitor, “rapidly, killing her?”

“No.” Doug replied tight lipped.

“Exactly.” Max snatched the chart back, “So as I was saying…You,” he pointed to the ER intern at Tess’ side, “Intern…what do we have here?”

Having been dismissed, Doug Shellow left the exam room with a mumble, “Asshole,”
as the intern explained the vital stats.

“Exit wound?” Max asked, now fully focused on examining the wound in front of him.

“No,” the intern replied. “Should I get the portable ultrasound to access the damage?”

“Not necessary.” Max replied as he placed his fingertips around the tennis ball sized hole in the patient’s abdomen. Although it appeared to the naked eye, that he was simply feeling for distention, using just a bit of his powers, Max was actually looking under her skin, into her body to view the damage caused by the bullet. It was an ability that came with his healing faculties, but there was no glowing of hands needed to engage it. This and his other natural knowledge of the systems of the human body, were what made him such a flawless surgeon.

As he observed the damage in his mind, he was sucker punched by the flash he never saw coming, and never expected.

A man, with his face, lighten flashing outside illuminating an infant

Shining dark eyes, familiar eyes.

“I couldn’t do it Liz, I’m sorry”

Tears

Panic

“I know what we talked about, what we planned, we had to keep Tess from leaving.

How could I ask you to break your own heart?”

Sorrow

“It will be better this way. This way, we’ll never know…we’ll never know what we could have had, what we would have been. You’ll find someone, someone human, and you’ll be happy loving him because you’ll never know…you won’t know the perfection that was us. This way…it will be better.”

Resignation

“Just a memory,”

Dissolution

“Goodbye Liz,”

“I love you, always.”

Oblivion

It was the most intense flash he’d ever experienced. He wasn’t just seeing it - he was there. It was his chin that burned with a river or warm tears, it was his throat whispering the words, it was his heart being ripped from his chest as he gazed at the brown eyed baby.

The emotions that he couldn't block - the agony, the regret, the uncertainty, the overwhelming love for that child, tore through him with the force of a lightening bolt that cleaved his soul. And Max felt them all.

“I’m in.” The intern’s voice pulled Max from the vortex of the flash. He inhaled sharply, as all the breath had been knocked from his lungs when the flash hit.

Regaining his bearings, his eye’s met Tess’s as she held the patient’s hand to administer an IV injection, and he knew she had seen it too.

“Dr. Evans?” the intern questioned, unsure what to do next, now that the breathing tube had been inserted, and he was rhythmically squeezing the bag to keep air in the patient’s lungs.

“Take…”Max cleared his throat to dispel its tightness, “Take her up to OR five. I’m right behind you.” As they wheeled the patient out, thoughts, images from the flash raced across his mind. What was that? What in the hell was that?

As they walked out the double doors, Max touched Tess’s upper arm and whispered in her ear, “Call Nasedo. Get him here. Now.” Her eyes met his in understanding and she nodded. As Max turned and hurried to the OR, Tess took a few steps towards the lounge, stunned by what she had seen. And confused. Why would she get a flash of Max from that patient? Why would that girl have memories of Max - who didn’t exactly look like Max? Where did they come from? How was she connected to them? Just who was Liz Parker?

Thanks for reading and posting feedback guys - you're the best!



Part 14

After getting her bearings, Tess went to call Nasedo as Max had directed. As she passed by the waiting area, her eyes couldn’t help but wander to the man who had come in with Liz Parker. He sat, no longer struggling with security, with his elbows on his knees, his head in his hands, covering his face. His body language radiated anguish. She could see he was in the throws of the torture many a family member had experienced in the room he now occupied - the torture of waiting. Waiting with the fear and uncertainty for a messenger to bring news - good or bad - news of whether they would ever again speak to or see a loved one - news confirming if they were dead or alive.

For a moment Tess considered going to him. She could explain that Max Evans was the best surgeon in the hospital and that Liz was in good hands. She could tell him that they were doing all they could, that Liz could be doing well - even though she knew that was unlikely. She had seen gunshot wounds before and Liz Parker’s was certainly fatal.

She could also take the opportunity to talk with the man - find out who Liz was - where they came from. Did her father know how the memories she had seen came to rest in the far recesses of Liz’s mind? Or was he oblivious, like Max’s parents, who had raised him for twenty years, but really knew nothing about him?

In the end, she’d sent another nurse to take Liz’s medical history from the man. She didn’t know anything about him, and was afraid that having direct contact with him could somehow put them in danger. It was safer, when faced with the unknown to hang back, to do nothing. She went to call and update Nasedo on the recent events. Max would want to speak with the protector as soon as he was out of surgery. She also called Isabel and Michael. This development concerned them as well, and they needed to be ready to move should their presence be required.

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

Meanwhile, upstairs in the operating room, Max was fighting a battle to save Liz Parker’s life - and he was losing.

“Pressure's dropping.” the anesthesiologist informed the surgeon.

“Another two units of O-negative.” Max ordered, “More suction.” There was too much blood - he couldn’t see the artery he was trying to cauterize.

“It’s coming out of her faster then we can put it in.” The intern noted.

“Put it on the rapid infuser - squeeze it in.” Max directed.

Liz Parker was dying. Max knew it. The anesthesiologist knew it. Even the surgical intern knew it. Try as they might, human medicine and technology could not save her, there was too much damage. But Max couldn’t just let her die. He needed to know what that flash was - what it meant - who she was. You couldn’t get answers from the dead.

Then there was the tiny whisper of a voice in the back of his mind, telling him to just heal her - before it was too late. It was the voice of the man Max saw in the flash, his voice, but thick with emotion. The whisper elevated to a scream, as the heart monitor filled the room with its screech, signaling Liz’s heart had ceased to beat.

“Lost the pulse.”

“Shit.” Max swore. He had to do something - Tess wasn’t here, he couldn’t just heal her in front of the rest of the OR staff. But he couldn’t - he wouldn’t let her die.

Knowing he only had moments to act before the damage would be irreversible, Max plunged his had into her abdominal cavity. His hand was quickly swallowed up to his wrist by the thick blood oozing from the arteries and flesh that the bullet had severed and torn.

“Dr. Evans - what are you doing?” The surgical intern exclaimed.

“I’m looking for the bleeder. If I can pinch it with my finger, it will stem the blood flow. Then, I’ll sew it and maybe give her a chance.”

“She was shot with a 45 - I’m sure there’s several bleeders.”

“Give me the number two thread.” Max ordered, trying to distract her from the surgical field, as he felt his powers start to work, and knew his hand was beginning to glow.

Moments of Liz Parker’s life flashed before him - through him.

An infant, splashing in the sink, being bathed by a dark haired man and red haired woman

A toddler with flowing dark locks, laughing in delight, as a man - a different man - pushed her high on a swing, her long hair waving out behind her

A child, beside a pool, behind a gigantic house, her feet in the water - alone - sad

A young teen, in a jungle, arguing with a khaki clad man, standing in the line of fire preventing him from shooting a baby elephant, the same man who had pushed her on the swing nearby, smiling at her fierce stubbornness

An adolescent holding up her driver’s license to show the man, waving as she drove a new sport car with a big red bow down a long drive way

A woman, arguing with a different man, in an apartment, pointing her finger at the door, the man storming out, slamming the door, her turning back to the window -alone again -sad

A woman again, in a bar, listening to a band, laughing and clapping to the music, drinking and talking with a blond haired woman and brown headed young man.

The images flew by and Max saw them all, but he didn’t have the time to think or analyze them. Then then he saw something else - something new that gave him pause.

Hovering within Liz Parker consciousness was a perfectly round shining ball of light. It floated above all her memories, all the moments in her life, casting them in a bluish silver shimmer.

What in the holy hell?

He couldn’t complete the thought as the intern exclaimed, “My God, its working!”

Remembering where he was, Max ended the healing, and went through the motions of sewing the internal wounds, as the pool of blood was suctioned away from his hand.

“Paddles.” Max demanded, “Clear,” and he shocked her heart, relieved to hear the comforting beep of the monitor, indicating a beating heart once again.

“Pressures coming back up.”

Max took a deep breath, and went about stitching the more minor injuries he had left unhealed within Liz’s body.

The intern watched the surgeon intently as he worked, for the first time, elated that she had been placed under him in her surgical rotation. He may be a prick in real life, she thought, but in the operating room, he was a god.

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

Downstairs, Kal Langley was lost in his own thoughts as he looked at his blood stained hands. It was her blood. His Liz’s blood. He still couldn’t wrap his mind around how all this had happened. How had it come to this?

He’d failed her. He knew about injuries, about wounds, and knew it would take a miracle for Liz to survive the one that was inflicted upon her. And there was nothing he could do. He was worthless - helpless. What good was having powers if you couldn’t use them to help the one person you loved - the only person who mattered?

So focused on his own failings, he didn’t notice the man who approached him - didn’t acknowledge his presence until he spoke, and Kal instantly recognized the voice - the voice he’d wanted never to hear again.

“Well, hello Kunar, this is an unexpected surprise.”

Kal looked up into the face of Ed Harding.

In a flat, dead voice he responded, “I don’t know that name anymore.”

Dripping with fake cheerfulness Nasedo asked, “Oh that’s right - what is it now? Kal Langley?” Kal turned his head and resumed staring at his hands. “What brings you to our part of the world? Don’t tell me you’ve had a change of heart? Looking to resume your responsibilities after all these years?”

Kal pinched the bridge of his nose with his fingers, “No, no. It was a mistake. I’m not here for anything. My…my goddaughter was hurt, and they brought her here. We’ll be leaving as soon as she’s better.”

This was why the Max Evans who came to him that night long ago wanted Liz away from Roswell. He wanted her away from this life - these dangers - away from the monster who stood beside him.

“Your goddaughter?” Nasedo chuckled. “How very human of you. My, life is funny don’t you think? You abandon your charges, forsake all that we were sworn to do and do your best to pretend like you are really one of them. And then, one of them, forces you here - to face all that you wanted to ignore? So…ironic.”

Kal started to tell the shape shifter to go away - to leave him the fuck alone, but the mention of the charges made him stop. Of course - the King. If the protector was here, it was more then likely that the King was here too - in Roswell. And he could heal Liz - he could wave his hand over her stomach and in seconds it would be like it all never happened. He could save her.

Thinking of nothing else, Kal stood up, eye to eye with Nasedo, “Where is he?”

“Who?”

“The King - tell me where he is.” Kal demanded.

“Oh, I don’t think he would want to see you. You want nothing to do with us - your history, your heritage - your duty. Why would he want to look at your sorry face?”

“I don’t care what he wants,” Kal shot back, urgency making his voice rise slightly, “I need him here. Tell me where he is or I will…”

“You’ll what? You think you can just come here and threaten me? Me?” Although he was infuriated at Kal’s impertenance, Nasedo’s voice remained hushed.

Not as restrained Kal grabbed the other shape shifter by the shirt, not thinking of any of the ramifications of Liz being healed by the King. He just wanted her to live - and he would do anything - anything - to ensure that outcome. “He needs to be here and if you don’t fucking tell me right now, I swear to God…”

“What the hell is going on here?” Kal was cut off by the irritated demand. So intent on their exchange, neither had seen the young surgeon, still in scrubs, come up to them.

Still holding Nasedo by the shirt, Kal turned and stared into angry eyes of Max Evans.

Nasedo smiled without warmth, “Well, speak of the devil…”

Thank you - all of you (lurkers and those who post f/b)for reading this! I can't tell you how much it means to me. I'm afraid this part is not my best - but I wanted to get it out to you ASAP and needed to move the story along. Answers are coming soon!

Chapter 15

Shocked, but still not releasing his grip on Nasedo, Kal asked, “You’re a doctor?”

Ignoring the heated exchange he'd come upon, Max answered the man with the blood stained shirt - the man he had seen in Liz Parker’s memories. “Yes, I’m a surgeon - you're Kal Langley?”

Kal nodded and let go of the shape shifter’s shirt, “I’m Max Evans. I’m the surgeon who operated on Liz Parker.”

“Is she alright?”

“She’s alive. She's stable at the moment, but her injuries were extensive. I…”

All Kal heard was "she's alive", “Great, great." He cut in, "Ok, I’ll make the arrangements for the jet - I want her transported to the airport as soon as possible.”

“Wait, wait - what? Mr. Langley, as I was saying, Miss. Parker suffered massive internal damage and…”

“Yeah, yeah I get it. Just get whatever forms I need to sign, whatever medical equipment she’ll need, and we’ll be going.” Kal responded already opening his cell phone to make the calls.

Flabergasted, Max asked, “Where exactly do you think you’ll be going?”

“I want her transferred Cedar Sinai.” Kal explained as if it was the most natural conclusion in the world.

“No, you can’t…” Max started, but was once again cut off.

“Money is not an issue - I can get whatever she needs.”

Finally reaching his limit, Max all but shouted, “You cannot move Liz Parker out of this hospital!”

It was an order. And just like that, the DNA within Kal that dictated obedience to the King kicked in and he closed his phone, defeatedly. “But…” he tried anyway.

“No buts Mr. Langley. Miss. Parker’s condition is very serious and if you try to transport her I promise you she will be dead before you land. Do you understand?”

“Yes.” Kal whispered.

Nasedo had been watching this exchange curiously, wondering why the other protector was so desperate to get his “goddaughter” out of Roswell.

“Can I see her?” Kal requested.

“Of course.” Max answered as he pointed to a nurse nearby, “Cheryl will bring you up. I’ll be around shortly to answer any questions you may have.”

As Langley walked off, Max had a hundred questions of his own, but, first things first, he had to speak with Nasedo about the things he’d seen within Liz Parker. And he couldn’t do that here. As he glanced around the room, he noticed they’d attracted some attention. He motioned Nasedo to follow him to the doctor’s lounge. When Tess saw them, she followed as well.

As they walked, Max asked the shape shifter, “What was that all about?”

Nasedo answered, “Nothing of consequence - just catching up with an old friend.”

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

Meanwhile, outside in the dimly lit parking lot, Alex Whitman and Maria DeLuca were jogging towards the entrance. Kyle Valenti had kept them at Bubba’s to answer questions and give a statement about the shooting. As soon as he’d let them, they’d come here to check on Liz.

As Maria made it to and through the hospital door, movement to his left, in a shadowed area next to the building, caught Alex's eye. Pausing and peering more closely, he realized what he was seeing were two people, a man and a woman, struggling - fighting over the woman’s purse.

“I said let go!!” Alex heard the woman yell. He, by no means thought of himself as a superhero, but he was also not the type of man who would stand by and watch someone be assaulted, and do nothing to stop it. Alex ran over to the fighting pair.

“Hey - hey asshole. The lady said let go.” Alex shouted in an authoritative tone once he reached them.

Upon closer inspection, Alex noticed a detail about the man, his mind had not registered before. He was huge. As in Hulk Hogan-like, rippling muscles, ate small children for breakfast, huge. How the woman had been able to hold onto her purse against this guy’s strength astounded him.

“What the fuck are you gonna do about it - ya pencil neck, string bean?” The towering man asked menacingly.

Alex smiled confidently, “Yes, yes, I am slight of frame, its true. But so are my friends. Maybe you’ve heard of them? Jet Li? Bruce Lee? They’re not big guys either, but we have many things in common like - lethal hands.”

Alex assumed a karate stance. “You are going to let go of the lady’s purse and dis-a-fucking-pear, before I go kung fu on your ugly ass.”

There was a medium size sapling next to them, which caught Alex’s attention. One of the lower branches was about 2 inches thick in diameter. Alex smacked at it with the side of his hand in a perfect karate chop. Suddenly the branch split and fell to the ground.

“Got it motherfucker?” Alex asked as he stared the bigger man down.

The man looked at the branch, then Alex, then the purse. He dropped the purse, turned and ran. It wasn’t worth losing an arm over.

The woman turned to look at her savior and said, “That was amaz…”

“AHHHHH,” Alex’s howl of pain cut her off as he fell to the ground clutching his quickly swelling hand.

“Oh my God - are you okay?” The woman asked, concerned.

“Nnnnn,” Alex shook his head, unable to form words because of the pain vibrating from his hand through his entire body.

“You don’t know kung fu, do you?”

“Nnnnn,” Alex shook his head again, holding back the tears that came to his eyes. God, please don’t let him cry. This was the coolest thing he’d ever done in his life - please, Lord don’t let him puss out now by crying.

“Okay, well we should get you inside and have that looked at.” The woman paused a moment and added, “I don’t know if you remember me, we went to school together. I’m Isabel. Isabel…”

“Evans.” Alex finished for her. He’d finally taken a moment to look at the woman he had helped. And he was shocked to see who it was. It was her - his dreamgirl. The girl he hadn’t seen, in his waking moments, since graduation. Although they both lived in the same town, they didn’t run in the same circle. Then there had been college, and he’d heard she’d gone to law school, and he’d traveled a lot with the band.

“Your Isabel Evans.” Alex stated, ‘And I’m…I’m…”His brow crinkled in confusion. Why had his brain suddenly stopped working?

“Your Alex Whitman.” Isabel finished for him, wondering if he had hit his head when he’d crumbled to the ground.

“Yes! Yes - that’s me.”

Isabel smiled warmly, “Hi Alex.”

Stunned further by her smile Alex could only reply, “Hey.”

Alex got up from the ground with Isabel’s assistance and together they walked into the hospital.

“So,” Alex started, “How have you been? Wha’cha been doin’, you know, the last… ten years?”

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

A bit later, Maria gently opened the hospital room door. The nurse who had told her about Liz’s condition, had told her to go right in. The rhythmic sound of the ventilator was the only thing she heard as she observed Liz laying on the bed. Tears came immediately to her eyes as she took in her friend’s small frame, her ghostly pale features.

“Who are you?” Maria was startled to see the balding middle aged man, sitting beside Liz, holding her hand. She hadn’t noticed him.

“I’m Maria - Maria Deluca. Are you Kal?” The man shook his head in the affirmative and resumed staring at the prone girl on the bed.

“I came as soon as I could. I wasn’t sure…I didn’t know if you knew…if anyone would be here. I didn’t want her to be alone.”

There was no response.

“I just met Liz a few days ago, but it feels…it feels like we’ve been friends forever. She told me, she told me her worst fear was dying alone…with no one with her…no one who’d care.” Maria explained.

“She said that?” Kal asked. He didn’t know Liz carried that fear.

Maria nodded her head, and sat down on the other side of the bed, next to Liz.

“We’re here Liz. You’re not alone, honey.” Maria searched for some words - something to fill the crushing silence. “You just take your time and get better okay? Alex is downstairs. He broke his hand - can you believe that?” She chuckled through her tears. “I leave him alone for two minutes and he breaks his hand. The doctor said it will be a few weeks till he can play guitar again, so we’re not going anywhere. We’ll be right here waiting for you, okay?”

“This wasn’t supposed to happen.” Kal’s voice was a mournful hush. Maria wasn’t sure if he was speaking to her or just thinking outloud. “She was never supposed to be here."

Maria’s heart broke for the man beside her. It was obvious that he blamed himself for Liz being shot. It was obvious that Liz meant the world to him.

“I know we don’t know each other, Mr. Langley, but my mom, she’s this real free spirit type of woman. She always told me things happen for a reason. I know it’s a cliché, but she always taught me, if something’s meant to be it will be and there’s not much anyone can do to change that. Like, my dad - he left when I was a baby. It just crushed my mom. But then, she met this really really great guy - and their married now. And she’s happier then she’s ever been. See, she had to go through the bad part to be even happier in the end.”

She paused for a moment, her voice thick with saddness, “When I see Liz laying here, I have to believe its for a reason. We may not know it for a while, we may not see the purpose right away, but I think - I know - somehow - she’ll end up better - happier then she was before, because of it.”

Kal took in the girl’s naive words. He’d never believed in fate - he didn’t believe in it now. He made his own destiny - his own luck. Somewhere along the line, he’d made a fatal error and that was why Liz was here. His only comfort was the hope that he could right the wrong and get her out of this town in one piece.

Both were pulled from their thoughts as the nurse came in, and told them they would have to leave - visiting hours were long over. Maria looked at Kal, “I’ll be back tomorrow." Kal gave her a tight smile.

“Bye Liz, I’ll see you tomorrow.” Maria touched her friend’s hand and left, closing the door quietly behind her.

**************************************************************
Max Evans walked down the hospital corridor. The sounds of the medical equipment that kept patients alive, leaked from the rooms into the hall, and the occasional staff person walked by, but otherwise all was quiet.

After he, Nasedo and Tess went to the lounge area, Max had quickly explained about the unusually intense flash. Tess was surprised as Max had described what he experienced upon touching Liz Parker, because to her it had been the typical experience - no raging emotions - just images of a man - Max - talking and crying to a baby.

Then Max had gone on to describe the frantic healing in the operating room and the strange sphere he'd observed. Recognition had dawned on Nasedo’s face when Max mentioned it, but he advised that they needed more information. Nasedo had no idea who Liz Parker was and knew of no connection between her and the royal four, except for Kal Langley.

It was disturbing for Max to learn that Langley was the would-be protector of the New York pods. He didn't know what to expect from him - on the one hand, he was an alien, one of them. On the other, he had long ago abandoned his obligations and connections to anything not of this earth.

Langley's true identity did support Max's theory, however, that Liz Parker was someone of importance - more then what she appeared to be.

Upon Nasedo’s advisement, Max was going to extract more information from Liz - the only way he could - with a mind rape. That was the reason he found himself at the door to her hospital room at four in the morning.

He walked inside the room and stared at the dark haired girl on the bed. As he watched her, he tried to ignore the seed of trepedation that lay buried in his gut, the apprehension about what he was about to do.

He couldn’t forget the emotions he had felt in the flash. Looking at her, eyes softly closed, her shining hair fanned out behind her, Max felt the echo of affection - of the love - that had overwhelmed him in the flash.

He flexed his hand, the hand he was supposed to use to invade her mind. Why was he hesitating?

Images of Grant Sorenson's lifeless face came unbidden to his mind, but he pushed them away. He would be careful - he wouldn't make that mistake again, he told himself.

Still his feet would not move. He knew this was dangerous - Liz Parker's body was very weak - one mistep would mean her certain death. Maybe he could wait - till she was stronger. Maybe he should heal her further first.

And then he heard Nasedo's words in his head,

You are our King - tens of thousands are depending on you. You cannot let one life stand in the way of that.

He had no choice. He needed answers and he needed them now.

Resigned to his course of action, he took one step towards the bed.

“One more step and I’ll blast you out the door onto your ass.”

Max all but jumped at the sound of the voice. He’d been so focused on Liz he didn’t see Langley, by the window in the dark room, smoking a cigar, keeping sentry over Liz.

Max croaked, “Visiting hours are over.”

Kal snorted, “You’d be surprised what money can get you. You should pay your nurses more.”

Then the two men fell silent, looking at each other with Liz between them.

Max broke the staring match and resumed looking at Liz. Kal blew out a puff of smoke and asked, “Did you talk to your protector?” Max nodded his head. “He told you who I am?” Max nodded again, his eyes still captivated by Liz’s face. He couldn’t seem to look away. “Good. It will save time.” Kal surmised.

Almost reverently, Max whispered “Who is she?”

“She’s no one.” Kal insisted in a low voice.

“We both know that’s not true. Like you said, let’s not waste time.”

Those words and the man who spoke them caused an eery sense of dejavu to settle over Kal, reminding him of the night this all began.

When Langley didn't offer more information, Max asked, “Where are her parents? Where is she from? Nasedo said you called her your goddaughter?”

“I managed her father’s band. Her parents and grandmother died when she was a baby. She’s been with me ever since.” Kal explained hoping Max was buying it. It was the truth after all - well, part of the truth.

Max raised his eyebrows, humoring the protector, “And that’s it?”

“That’s it,” Kal insisted, “She doesn’t know anything about…what I am. She has nothing to do with you or any of your, otherworldly, business. She’s no one.”

“Stop saying that! I got a flash from her when I touched her - of a man who looked like me - felt like me - talking to her - crying for her - to her”

“That’s not possible.” He couldn’t have been that stupid. He couldn’t have gone to her after he left me, Kal thought, but didn’t say.

“Look,” Max pushed, losing his patience, “I’m telling you what happened. She’s obviously connected to me - to us - somehow. First the flash, and then when I healed her…”

“You healed her?” Kal cut him off, stunned.

“She was dead on the table, she would never have made it otherwise.”

Kal winced at the thought of how close Liz had been to death. It was all too much to take at once. He needed time. He needed to think and plan.

Max’s eyes were once again drawn to Liz as he spoke, softly once more, “You want to keep her safe - protect what’s yours. I get that - really I do. But none of this adds up. There’s something you’re not telling me, and I need to know what that is. I have to know what all of this means.”

Before either of them could speak again, a nurse came in the door. She nodded to Max, and set about checking Liz’s vital signs. A few minutes later, she left without a word.

“We can’t talk here.” Kal stated and Max knew he was right. He took out his pen and pad, scribbled on it and handed it to Kal.

“Come to this address, tomorrow night at seven. The rest of us will be there then.”

Kal took the paper, as Max walked to the door. He paused there, looked the other man in the eyes and warned, “Be there at seven and come with answers Langley,” He looked meaningfully at Liz, “or I’ll get them myself.”

Thank you to all who are reading this!
Wench on A Leash - Yes, thank God Kal was there to stop him - for both his and Liz's future well being. I'm glad you liked the Kal smoking part - definately something he would do - I LOVE writing him in this. Thanks for all you wonderful fb - you are too kind!
cjsl8ne - Thank you. Poor Alex - he's such a goof but such a good guy - maybe he'll get more of a break in the near future.
Natalie36 - Thank you.
vaifeal - here you go!
roswell4life - Yep. Max will start to change but it will be baby steps - and not without setbacks!
So there's a lot of details in this part - let me know if you have any questions and I'll try to answer them as best as I can.
Thanks!


Chapter 16

6:30 pm - the next day

At Michael’s apartment, Max had finished catching Michael and Isabel up on the events of the last tweny four hours. They were shocked to say the least, and Michael had a particularly strong opinion about Langley.

“The guy’s got his own agenda Max.” Michael argued, “He wanted to bail before the girl was barely out of the operating room. He’s going to tell us anything that will get her out of town the fastest. I say go to the source for the real information.” He couldn’t remember the last time he’d been this excited about a new clue for the Granolith. They’d had many ups and downs through the years - all ending in disappointment. But this - this girl - he felt it in his bones - she had something to tell them.

“How do you propose I do that Michael?” Max asked from the couch, Tess close beside him. He was dressed casually in a form fitting black t-shirt and jeans. They had had the day off from the hospital, though he left instructions that he was to be contacted if there was any change in Liz Parker’s condition.

“Crack her head open like a walnut and see what goodies she has inside.” Isabel rolled her eyes at the crude suggestion, knowing it was just Michael being Michael, but the comment elicited an entirely different response from the latest arrival to the meeting.

Suddenly, Michael found himself blasted through his living room wall into his bedroom, leaving a gaping hole behind him.

Langley stood in the doorway, shooting daggers at Michael with his eyes, “That would be my vote on that particular option.”

Michael dusted himself off as he walked back into the room, “That was uncalled for.”

“Just making a point, General.” Langley replied as he walked confidently into the room. He turned and bowed dramatically to Max, “Here as requested, Your Majesty.”

Max didn’t want to waste time and told Langley, “Tell me everything you know about the man I saw in the flash - and don’t lie.”

Kal had already decided to tell them what he knew. After thinking it over extensively last night he realized that by being evasive he was just bringing more attention on Liz. The truth was, she really had nothing to do with these people - in this time line.

"Get comfy kids, and Uncle Kal will tell you the story of a time traveling King.” And Kal went on to describe the events of that night, twenty five years ago.

When he was done, the group was silent, deep in thought.

It was Michael who posed the first question, “So he had posession of the Granolith - that’s how he came back from the future?”

“The Granolith is an all powerful instrument - I see no other way he could have done it.” Kal answered calmly.

“But why - why come back just to make sure one human girl never comes to Roswell?” This was from Tess.

“He wasn’t exactly forthcoming with the details. He said it would prevent Kivar from destroying earth and obviously,” Kal spread his arms wide and gestured to the room around them, “it worked.”

“And after he left you, he went to Liz - even though she was just a baby, he went to see her - to say his…goodbyes.” Max commented.

“ It appears that way, yes.”

“In the flash, he said…he said they had a plan to keep Tess from leaving, but he couldn’t go through with it. So in his time, Tess must have left them, left their group. Then, when Kivar came, the four square was incomplete, so they couldn’t fight him.”

“But why would I leave?” Tess asked.

“Because he loved her.” Max said softly, “Liz Parker - he was in love with her- I felt it in the flash - it was like she was… everything to him.”

“That’s why he said it would be better,” Tess added, feeling uncomfortable with the suggestion that any version of Max had been in love with another woman, “It would be better because she would never know…”

“The perfection that was us.” Max finished, staring out the window, lost in his own thoughts.

“Well, now that we have that straightened out - you see that its better if Liz and I leave as soon as possible. Obviously that Max Evans knew more then we do. And his plan seems to be going great so far, I don’t see any reason to screw with it.” Kal said, getting up to leave, feeling better then he had in days.

Then the good feelings went bye-bye.

“What about the ball? The ball of silver light I saw when I healed her?” Max asked Kal.

“The what?” Kal asked, suddenly filled with dread, hoping he had heard wrong.

Looking at Kal Nasedo said, “The ball - the silver light you described, Max, is a scion.”

“Impossible.” Kal argued.

“Wait, a scion - like the car?” Michael asked.

“No Michael - not like the car. Scion is an Antarian word. It means…”

“Word of the King.” Max finished for him.

“That’s right.”

“How did you know that?” Tess asked - she never knew Max could speak Antarian.

“I don’t know - I just did.”

“I said its not possible,” Kal interjected heatedly, “He wanted Liz away from this - that’s why he came back - to make sure she never met any of you. It doesn’t make sense that he would place a scion within her.”

Max looked at Nasedo, “What is a scion exactly?”

“It is an information vessel. On Antar, the King had the ability to put particular information into the subconscious of another person - a host so to speak. Then, he was able to set certain parameters for when the scion would open and the host would become aware of the information. It was particularly useful in times of war. For example, the King would place a scion into the mind of a commander, that contained the location of a safe house or meeting base. Then, and only if the battle was being lost, the scion would open, and the commander would know where he should retreat to. If the battle was won, the scion would not open and the location of the safe house would remain a secret.”

Max’s mind worked rapidly, twisting and turning the information to see how it related to the current situation as Nasedo continued.

“The scion is a tool to keep important information confidential, until the information is needed. It is much more secure then the written word which could easily fall into the hands of the enemy. Or even giving directions verbally for that matter, because that knowledge could be learned by the enemy from a typical mind rape."

“Can a scion be opened by a mind rape?” Michael asked, the wheels in his mind turning as well.

“Now remember - not all Antarians can mind rape. Max and Michael can, Isabel and Tess can’t, shape shifters can’t, Nicholas and perhaps a few other skins can. It is a skill usually held only by the elite of Antar, and only a few, even in that circle possess it. But yes a scion can be forced open by a mind rape - it takes considerable time, it requires a lot of power and it gets …messy,”

“…and always results in the death of the host.” Kal added. Looking at Max he said, “It doesn’t make sense. Why come back from the future to change Liz’s life and then put alien information in her head? If he loved her, like you said, he wouldn’t have done that.”

“Sure he would.” Offered Michael, “It makes perfect sense. Think about it, Max. You didn’t alter any of our lives - you changed hers. You went back for her. So, you’re there, back in time, saying goodbye to the love of your life, and you have this…knowledge. This massively important information - the location of the all powerful Granolith - that you used to travel through time. Who are you going to trust that information to? Who are you going to trust with that kind of power? You don’t want it lost forever, because what if the plan goes wrong and Kivar comes to earth anyway? How’s the lady love going to protect herself if the evil aliens come knocking? So you give her the scion - to keep her safe - even though you’re gone from her life. If everything goes peachy - she never knows its there - never knows aliens even exist. But if all hell breaks loose - the shiny thing opens and boom - back up plan in effect.”

Isabel, trying to digest all the facts that were being thrown at her, felt like her head might explode. First - time travel was possible? How strange a thought was that? But then again, she had hatched from a pod, so nothing was really too weird for her to believe. Then, the idea that her brother - in any lifetime - could be in love with a human? She tried hard to imagine it but just couldn‘t - it was just - wow. Were the rest of them in love with humans too? That - for her - not so hard to imagine. And now this girl, Liz, has some thing in her mind that she doesn’t even know is there? That was freaky even for them.

“Just hold on one god damn minute! IF the scion is there, there’s no evidence it contains the location of the Granolith. It could be a love sonnet for Christ’s sake - who the hell knows?” Kal suggested - desperate to steer the conversation away from where he knew it was headed.

“Excellent point, Kal. We don’t know what the scion contains, which is why I propose we find out.” Nasedo suggested calmly.

“By killing Liz?” Kal shouted, “Fuck that and fuck you for suggesting it! Its NOT going to happen.”

“And what will you do to prevent it Kunar? Max can do as he pleases. You can’t kill him.” Nasedo stood as he baited the other protector.

“Call me by that name again, and I will blast you to hell where you belong.”

And then Kal became calm - menacingly calm.

He turned his eyes to Max, “He’s right, I can’t kill you. But I can kill her,” he pointed to Tess, “and her,” he pointed to Isabel, “and I can kill him.” His finger turned lastly to Michael. “And your parents. And every other person you’ve ever spoken to. I’ve lived a human existence for over fourty-five years. I have connections. I know people who will do things you’ve only seen in your nightmares. And I will use every damn one of them before I let any of you ghouls hurt Liz. You think you know about war? I’ll give you a war. I’ll make Kivar look like a goddamn saint, and when I’m done with you, you’ll be wishing it was you I killed.”

Max stood and walked up to Kal, standing right in front of him. He did not like being backed into a corner, so he lashed out “Do not threaten me or my family - you understand? I can make threats too. I can order you to leave Roswell. I could order you to never speak to Liz Parker again, and you'd be helpless to do anything about it. You try sneaking around me and smuggling her away - I will hunt her down, I swear it. I will obliterate the perfect little life you’ve built for her. How will she feel looking over her shoulder the rest of her life? Do not screw with me.”

Max finished and the two men stood, glaring at each other, for several moments.

Kal had never, it his life, wanted to obliterate someone - Max Evans - as much as he did in those moments. But he was right, when all was said and done, in many ways, he was helpless against the King's commands.

“My goodness, looks like we’ve got ourselves a standoff, cowboys.” Nasedo remarked, thoroughly enjoying the heated exchange.

It was Kal who looked away first. He sighed softly “There’s one other way.”

Max continued to stare Langley down, "What other way?”

Langley sat down, feeling sick about what he was suggesting. “You could connect with Liz. If you connect with her, and the connection is strong, the scion will pass to you, and you being the King, could access it.”

Now it was Nasedo’s turn to object, “You can’t be serious.”

“What do you mean by connect?” Tess asked - exactly what was Max expected to do with the Parker girl?

“A connection means, opening your mind, yourself, to another person - baring your soul for them to see - your strengths, weakness, memories - letting someone else see everything that makes you what you are. On Antar, the army was organized into battalions and those battalions consisted of friends and family members. Spouses fought side by side, parents and their adult children, siblings, close friends. It was thought a soldier would fight better if he was with his loved ones - protecting them as well as fighting for his planet. If a host couldn’t complete his mission - if he was injured or dying, someone close to him - someone he trusted could open up a connection with him and the scion would be passed. This way, the information would not die with the original host.”

“And the connection goes both ways. While your seeing another person, they’re seeing you.” Nasedo supplied that bit of information.

“But it doesn’t have to.” Kal added quickly, knowing instinctively Max would never agree to this plan if he had to bare himself for Liz to see. “It could go one way, if one was strong enough - if they had enough power to block the other out.”

“And you think this could work - that I could form this connection with Liz?” Max asked doubtfully.

“Yes. You’d have to get to know her - gain her trust - she’d have to put her… faith… in you, consider you a friend. If she did that, you could connect with her and the scion would go to you, leaving her unharmed.” Kal answered.

“And she won’t know this was happening?

“No, it will be like a flash - you’ll be reading her, but she won’t be getting anything from you.”

Seeing Max still hesitating Kal added, hating himself more with each word “It won’t be hard, she’s very…open. She trusts easily - sees the good in people right away, until they give her a real valid reason not to. She’s very…innocent that way.” And he was going to use that beautiful quality against her - to trick her. Kal was disgusted with himself.

“Its almost unheard of - a one way connection that transfers a scion? There were Antarians married for decades who couldn’t manage it.” Nasedo scoffed.

“But is it possible?” Max asked him.

“In theory…yes.” Nasedo begrudgingly admitted.

They were all quiet for several minutes. Kal waited, hating how vulnerable he felt - hating that Liz’s future depended on this boy-king's answer - hating the position he was putting her in. But he had no choice.

Finally, Max softly declared, “Okay. We’ll try it that way. If it works, we get what we want, you get what you want.”

Kal breathed a sigh of relief as Max noted further, “I’ll come by the hospital tomorrow. I should heal her a bit more - not enough to raise suspicion - just enough so she’ll be more comfortable when she wakes up.” The sooner they got started, the better.

As satisfied as he could be, Kal nodded. “I have to get back.” And with that, he left, feeling like he’d just made a pact with the devil. And Liz‘s soul was the prize.

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

After Langley’s departure, the remaining members of the meeting looked at Max, shocked at what he’d agreed to.

“Not the wisest choice you‘ve ever made.” Nasedo warned.

“You really think you can pull this off Maxwell? No offense, but your not exactly good with the touchy - feely. You don’t really send out the “trust me” vibe.”

“You’re not exactly Mr. Open Book either, Michael.” Max countered.

“At least I’ve got a pulse.”

“I’ve got a pulse.” Max sneered - offended by Michael’s joke.

“Seriously Max, what’s your plan exactly?” Isabel asked happy about his decision, but doubtfull about his ability.

Max shrugged, “I’ll make a new friend.”

When the others just stared at him he argued, “What else did you want me to do? Regardless of what I said to Langley, if Liz wakes up and he gets her to leave Roswell, there’s very little we could do about it. We don't have the resources to follow her around the world. With his money - she would disappear. I don't have a whole lot of options here.

“Unless we remove Langley.” Nasedo offered. “Take him out of the equation and there’s nothing standing between us and the Parker girl.”

“You mean kill him?” Tess asked.

“It could be done.” Nasedo answered.

“You said it was nearly impossible to kill a shape shifter.” Isabel inquired.

“My species does “die hard” you could say, but the four of you could do it. The four of you, together, would have to drain his life force.”

“And if we try and fail? Langley will be on the rampage. We‘ve got our hands full looking out for the skins, I don‘t want a deranged shape shifter gunning for me too.” Max thought a minute more. “We'll save that for plan B.”

“It’s gonna take a while Max. I mean you just don’t meet someone and poof - bestest friends.” Michael explained.

“I realize that, but - this is our safest strategy."

“And your going to have to give a little too Max - you realize that? You can’t expect someone to really put their faith in you, if you're as friendly as a brick wall." They were harping on her brother, she knew, but if this was going to work, Max needed to know what was expected of him, and he'd never been good at making friends - well - not that he'd ever wanted to.

“I’ll figure it out, Iz.” Max assured. He could do this - really - how hard could it be?

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

A short time later, after everyone had left, Nasedo sat in his car, outside Michael’s apartement. He picked up his cell phone and dialed a familiar number.

When the phone was answered on the other end, he said, “Plan a trip and bring your friends. The King is procrastinating. I have a job for you.”

With that, he hung up, and drove home, confident in his next move.

Hello everyone - Thank you thank you thank you for all your comments - you guys just make me want to stay in all day and write!!!
Galliard - Thanks and welcome! Re: your questions - some points will be elaborated on in the story later - but here's what I can tell you now - how and where the dupes ended up will be mentioned - 1) humans look like antarians so the royals can blend with the humans and go undetected by Kivar. 2) They needed human DNA for the cloning process b/c of damage to the royals when they died 3) The group with the seal and the Granolith is in charge - there should not have been a power struggle - the dupes were to be raised as back ups - if the protectors had done their jobs correctly.
Timelord31- you'll see!
Natalie36 - Yes, Liz will have much to deal with when she wakes
cjsl8ne - Yes, no one is perfect, but Liz was certainly the best thing that ever happend for Kal and his soul.
Angel Kisses70 - thanks for the f/b - see my A/N pg 6
roswell4life - we'll soon see! See my A/N pg 6
xmag - Kal can be unlikable at times - but I can't help but love him - grump that he is
pandas2001 - maybe! we'll find out soon.
Wench on a Leash - Unfortunately it won't be smooth sailing for M & L - is it ever?

Chapter 17

The next morning found a drowsy Max at the hospital, having stayed awake most of the night before thinking about the information he had learned at the meeting. He’d tried to stay focused on the real issue - the scion and the clues to the Granolith it could provide.

But strangely, his thoughts had kept drifting back to himself - his other self. Who had he been? What had happened in that life, that he could be so different? That had changed him enough to fall completely in love with a human girl. And not just to love her - but to trust her above anyone else - Michael, Nasedo, Isabel,Tess - with the location of the Granolith?

And then there was Liz Parker - what was it about her that had inspired such faith and devotion? Was she that same girl today, or had circumstances changed her as much as they had altered him? He’d gone around and around about it long into the night, finally realizing he had no answers - and it was pointless anyway. He didn’t want to think about who he might have been - it didn’t change who he was now or what he had to do. So he’d put the topic as far from his mind as he could, and was finally able to get some sleep.

After his rounds, he stopped in Liz’s room, not surprised to find Kal Langley there. He checked Liz’s chart and noted there was still no change.

“Why isn’t she awake yet?” Kal asked, and Max noticed the dark circles and wrinkles that had appeared on the shape shifter's face overnight. If he didn‘t know it was impossible, Max would have sworn Langley was ill.

“She lost a lot of blood. Her body’s recuperating.” Unaffected, he peeled the blanket from Liz’s body, exposing the ugly stitched wound. “She would have woken in another day or two. This will help speed things along.” He put his hand over the injury, while Kal watched his every move.

As his hand began to glow, Max was no longer in the hospital. He was in a blue convertible, outside, seeing the things Liz had experienced. He watched as a light haired young man punched her, once - twice, screaming that she was a whore, while she begged for him to stop.

As the quick flash ended, Max looked at Liz’s sleeping form and noticed for the first time, how tiny she looked in the large hospital bed. How had he not realized before how small she was - how fragile?

He felt a sudden spark of protective anger, when he thought about the images in the flash, and the burning desire to put his fist though something - something like the young man’s face.

Ill at ease with the new impulses, Max replaced the blanket and lied, “I ah…I have a surgery to get to. I’ll be back…later.”

He walked out of the room, barely controlling the urge to run - to get away as quickly as possible, from the unfamiliar feelings that touching Liz Parker seemed to cause.

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

While Max was fleeing Liz’s room, Tess was at the grocery store. She had another day off - that’s how nursing schedules went - three days on, three off. She was busy with errands.

She had tried to talk to Max when they had gotten home last night, about the Liz Parker situation. She’s told him she believed in him - believed he could get what they needed from Liz without bringing the wrath of Kal Langley down on them.

She also tried to give him some suggestions, to work out a plan - as a team - on how he could get close to the human girl. But Max hadn’t welcomed her suggestions - in fact he didn’t want to discuss it with her at all. He had been quiet the rest of the night - which wasn’t unusual for him - Max had never been the talkative type. But his sullenness last night - his solitary contemplation, had hurt her.

She wanted to do this with him - she wanted to view the course Max was now committed to as just another step, in what had become a life long quest for both of them. But he didn’t want or need her participation. Without saying the words she knew this was something he wanted to do completely on his own.

If she was honest with herself, she wasn’t exactly enthusiastic about the idea of her fiancé having to connect with another woman. Their's had always been an unconventional relationship, but there was still a small part of her that was insecure - maybe even a little jealous at the thought. She could never, however, let Max know that. He’d always told her she was too emotional, too needy - and she didn’t want to give further support to that opinion. No - she would never let on that any of this bothered her - they had all had to make sacrifices over the years - this would just be one more of hers.

As she looked down at her hands pushing the shopping cart, she admired the diamond and platinum engagement ring on her finger. She tried to take comfort in that.

She tried to remember the day he had given it to her, not for what it had lacked - romance, passion, but for what it had encompassed - commitment, security. Max had made her a promise - to one day make her his wife - his queen, and swore he would always keep her safe.

She knew Max was a lot of things - but she’d never known him to be dishonest - to go back on his word - at least not to them. No, it was a certainty - one day she and Max would be married - and it would be beautiful. This one little bump would not veer them off that road - it would not take that away from her.

As Tess placed a bottle of tobacco in the cart, the sound of laughter - familiar laughter floated towards her. She peeked around the corner, and to her surprise saw Isabel - talking with a young man whose name she didn’t know, with a cast on his arm.

“Come on - you have to sign my cast. You are the reason I‘ve got to wear it for the next six weeks - it should have your autograph on it.” The young man teased.

“What are we twelve? And I didn‘t tell you to go and assault that poor little tree” Isabel joked back, looking so at ease - so content.

“Believe me - it didn’t feel so little at the time.” The man smiled - a secret smile - like it was their own private joke.

“So is this like a high school reunion, and someone forgot to send me the invite?” Coming up behind the couple, from the other side of the isle was Kyle Valenti. Through the years, Tess had seen Kyle around - it was a small town, they were bound to run into one another.

They would greet each other, make small talk, but it was always with the distant familiarity of an associate - not the chatting between friends that he and Isabel were doing. Kyle and Isabel had hung out with the same crowd in high school and had maintained that relationship as the years had gone by.

“Jesus Kyle, do you even know how to turn your oven on?” Isabel mocked, as she looked at his cart - filled with microwave dinners.

“What? I like my Hungry Man meals.” Kyle defended with a smile.

Tess sighed and ducked back behind a triangle of baked beans so they wouldn’t see her. Isabel was so lucky - she envied her confidence. Tess herself was usually uncertain and hesitant when speaking with anyone outside their group. She’d always wanted to be more like Isabel but had never found the courage. As she got older, she’d told herself it was pointless anyway - they wouldn't be here much longer, why build a friendship that couldn't really last?

Still, she had commented to Isabel once on her ability to talk to just about anyone with such poise. Isabel had explained that it was all about the dreams. Once she dream walked someone, she felt like she knew them intimately - their fears, their hopes, their regrets. Once she knew that, she’d said, it was like they were old friends.

Tess turned her cart around and walked in the opposite direction from the trio. In the distance she heard Kyle say, “I don’t need a cook Alex, I need a wife. They come with much better perks then hired help.”

For a moment she allowed herself to consider how fortunate the wife of Kyle Valenti would be. He was always easy going and carefree. He seemed kind and warm and not one who’d judge another too harshly. And of course he was good looking too. He kept himself in excellant shape - his job as sheriff requiring him to be strong and agile.

Pushing those thoughts away she reflected on the man she would one day be a wife to. She was lucky too, she told herself. Max was gorgeous and strong and a natural leader. He was steady and loyal and one day, she was sure when all the stress of their search was gone, he’d appreciate her.

Yes, Tess thought, she may not have loads of friends or panting suitors like Isabel, but she had Max.

She had long ago put to rest the fairy tale dreams of her childhood. Her soon to be husband may not have the tender qualities of a Disney prince, but, he was hers. They were made to be together - she could depend on that. She would always have Max.

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

After finishing his charts for the day, Max once again found himself walking to Liz’s hospital room. He was surprised, this time to find three men standing outside her door. One was African American, with bulging muscles that strained the fabric of his dark suit - the other a medium sized Caucasian with long hair pulled back into a ponytail and a jagged scar on his left cheek - and the third, a small Asian man, his sharp eyes looking at Max suspiciously. As he went to enter, the men blocked his path.

The big one asked, “Can we help you?”

“I’m Max Evans - Miss Parker’s doctor - I’m here to check on her.” After showing his badge when requested, the men opened the door and two followed him in - so closely that when he paused to pick up her chart, he felt one of the men bump him from behind.

“May I ask who you are?”

“Mr. Langley’s private security.”

When Max moved to check Liz’s incision, the small Asian stood in the way.

“Do you mind?” Max asked, annoyed.

Small one stepped aside and said, “Just following orders.”

“And what are those orders exactly?”

Big one answered, “To watch every person who comes in this room and make sure they do not harm Miss Parker in any way.”

“Even her doctors?”

Big one smiled without humor, “Especially her doctors.”

Way to make with the trust, Langley, Max thought.

And then his mind went blank - like someone had turned off the light switch - he was unable to form a coherent thought as he looked down. And saw the darkest eyes he’d ever seen - looking right at him.

She was awake.

Hey everyone - here's the next part - yes - the first actual interaction between Max and Liz. Hope its not too aniclimactic - just remeber - baby steps!
Also - the end of the first part will make more sense if you recall Liz's conversation with Kal in her office - before she went to Dallas.
Thank you for reading - so much - and for all your wonderful comments!
flyawayraven - thank you - and we'll have to wait and see - Max is hard to love at the moment and is pretty incapable of loving anyone else also.
Natalie36 - thanks - yeah Tess has a rough rode ahead - who knows how it will affect her
roswell4life - thank you - i always thought, if you took out what she did to Alex - it was easy to pity tess - she was usually desperate and pathetic
polar vixen - thank you - kal is pretty awesome
kaydid - thanks - this is the beginning of the end in a lot of ways - not just for tess!
Wench on a Leash - thank you so so very much!


Chapter 18
Song - You Move Me by Garth Brooks

Liz’s thoughts were muddled, like she was drowning in a thick bog of molasses, pushing and straining to get to the surface, but making little progress. Pain registered - a pulsing throb from her mid-section that helped to clear some of the fog that surrounded her. She tried to move her arms but they were heavy - as if a weight was tied to each wrist. Slowly she opened her eyes.

This is how it seems to me
Life is only therapy
Real expensive
And no guarantee

Oh God - I’m dead - was the first coherent thought she had. I died and this is the archangel guiding me to the other side. Not an utterly unpleasant idea as she took in the features of the man before her.

Soft full lips, chisled cheek bones, thick hair the color of midnight, his face surrounded by a blurry white haze, like a dream sequence from an afternoon soap opera. When he raised his eyes to hers, however, she saw something was off. His eyes were …cold …hollow - a stark contrast, that didn’t match the beauty of his face. They held hers for a moment and then he spoke.

“Miss Parker - Liz? I’m Max - Dr. Max Evans. You’re at Roswell Memorial, you were shot - but you’re going to be alright now.” His words were clipped - his speech rapid like doctors’ tended to be. But his voice, his voice was a warm timber that sent soothing tingles down her limbs, as if she had taken a sip of brandy.

If Liz’s thought weren’t so murky she would have concluded that the man before her was a mass of contradictions - beautiful but dispassionate - gentle at the same time distant.

So I lie here on the couch
With my heart hanging out
Frozen solid with fear
Like a rock in the ground

Max was riveted by her eyes - like two black diamonds that shined in the moonlight. The same eyes he had seen in the flash - that had insighted so many feelings within him. She stared at him and he felt like she already knew him - already knew his secrets - as if she could see his soul.

He could not bring himself to look away. Her eyes - he’d never been so entranced - by anything in the world. He didn't want to move - he couldn’t…breath.

But you move me
You give me courage I didn't know I had
You move me on
I can't go with you and stay where I am
So you move me on

Liz tried to speak, and that’s when she realized there was something in her mouth - down her throat.

The movement of her hand towards her mouth released Max from his immobility and he snapped back into doctor mode. “Go get Mr. Langley, now.” He directed the security men in a tone that left no room for argument.

His attention back to Liz, he explained, “It’s a breathing tube,” knowing it must be uncomfortable now that she was alert, “I’ll take it out.” He moved beside her head and undid the tape gently, “Now breath out hard.” he instructed.

Liz did as she was told, and after an odd pulling sensation in her throat, she felt the object slide out, as she coughed and gagged. Max quickly retrieved some water and a straw and offered it to her. She drank deeply, coating her sore throat, and croaked, “Thank you.”

This is how love was to me
I could look and not see
Going through the emotions
Not knowin' what they mean

After replacing the cup on the nightstand, Max stared at Liz’s face. Now that she was animated, he noticed for the first time how lovely she really was. Delicate features, pure smooth skin, brown hair that somehow managed to shine in spite of days without washing.

"Do you remeber anything?"

“Not really.” Liz’s voice sounded hoarse and unfamiliar to her own ears. “I remember the plane ride, with Alex and Maria, we were all sick, but after that its just…blank.”

“That’s very common. Memory loss often occurs after trauma is inflicted on the body.” Max reassured her, comfortable - confident talking about medicine.

And it scared me so much
That I just wouldn't budge
I might have stayed there forever
If not for your touch

Liz nodded her head, and lay back against the pillows, feeling weak, but stragely excited. She felt - drawn to the young doctor. He seemed familiar, though she knew he wasn't. She felt comforted by his presence - safe - and wanted nothing more then for him to talk with her all day - stay with her - maybe forever.

Oh but you move me
Out of myself and into the fire
You move me
Now I'm burning with love
And with hope and desire
How you move me

Max sat down in the chair beside the bed, captivated by her face, assailed again by the odd sensation that he would be completely content to watch her, all day - the way her eyes sparkled when she spoke, how she nibbled her bottom lip as she was doing just then. She fascinated him.

Not knowing what possessed him, he reached out his hand and covered hers, resting on the bed. He couldn't not touch her - and she was warm and soft and welcoming.

When Liz felt his hand on hers, she smiled and Max felt the world stop.

You go whistling in the dark
Making light of it
Making light of it
And I follow with my heart
Laughing all the way

His eyes seemed warmer to her now - was it the shift in light that seemed to make them glow a gentle gold? She didn't know. She didn't care. His hand on hers made her lightheaded.

"Hi." She whispered.

He smiled, "Hi."

A moment later Kal Langley walked into the room, and Max jumped up, away from Liz to the foot of her bed.

His smile was gone, as was the soothing, comfort of his touch, and Liz felt the loss keenly.

As Max watched Langley embrace and fuss over Liz, he was struck by the stark difference between Kal and Nasedo. Nasedo was more robotic - displaying emotion when needed - but not really experiencing them. Langley on the other hand, showed his feelings naturally, without thought, obviously relishing his humanness.

Feeling like an intruder to the family reunion, Max turned to slip out the door - but her shy voice halted his exit.

“Max...thank you...for saving my life.”

Max looked down into her endless eyes and his stomach rumbled, “Your welcome.” He answered softly.

Oh 'cause you move me
you get me dancing and you make me sing
you move me
Now I'm taking delight in every little thing
How you move me

As Liz looked at the young doctor, a small smile on his lips, one thought echoed through her now fully alert mind - - - click.

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

That night, in bed with Tess, Max experienced a first.

His first dream.

He didn’t remember closing his eyes. He didn’t remember dozing off, mentally exhausted by all the recent activity. But suddenly he opened his eyes, and he was there - somewhere else.

It appeared to be a restaurant of some kind, with half of a giant space ship above the door. He opened the door and walked inside to the twinkling of a bell. The booths were green and empty. In fact the entire place was empty, except for the cartoonish green aliens that decorated the walls.

A man came out of the back room, leaving the door swinging behind him. And not just any man - it was him - the him from the other time - the one who had visited Langley. He stared at Max, long hair and leather pants, but instead of the devastation he had seen on his face in the flash, he was smiling, with merriment in his eyes. He had a coin in his hand and tossed it in the air, catching it repetitively as he spoke.

“Great place, huh?”

“Where are we?” Max asked… himself.

“No where - now. Just a diner - in the land of Might Have Been.”

“Is this a dream walk?”

Flip, catch, toss the coin, “Afraid not. No alien mumbo jumbo - just a good old human subconscious, wanting to chat.”

Flip, catch, toss. “There’s two sides to every coin Max - you’ve only been playing with one - its not healthy.”

“I don’t understand.” Max said looking around.

Suddenly, without moving, the other Max was sitting on top of a table, next to him. “I know you don’t. But its not always about you. Do you ever think about anyone but yourself? Have you ever sacrificed - given something of - you - for someone else?”

Max looked himself in the eyes and confidently answered, “Yes, I have.”

“Ah, you mean the thing with the skins last year? Yeah, yeah - you traded yourself for Isabel and Tess. Nicolas released them, so he could have you, without a fight. It was a recon mission you know. Nicolas wanted to get into your head - see if you had anything on the Granolith yet. But you knew Michael would back you up - you two had it all planned. And it worked - you got out before Nicolas mind raped you and Tess - poof - turned fifty skins to dust.”

Flip, catch, toss. Flip, catch, toss.

“But that doesn’t really count. What if it had been your parents? You know - those people who’ve loved you, cared for you, provided for you since you were six? Would you have traded yourself for them?"

Flip, catch, toss.

"Or would you have thought yourself much too important to sacrifice for mere humans? I mean a whole planet is waiting for you to come rescue them, right? You wouldn’t let two tiny human beings get in the way of that - even if they happened to be the only parents you’ve ever had?” The other Max asked, his voice overflowing with sarcasm.

“I don’t…I don’t know.” Max answered honestly, not wanting to think of himself as that kind of man, but not entirely sure he wasn’t.

“So, again - I’ll ask you, have you every given something of yourself for another? Another who was not an alien? Another who was the other part of yourself - the part that you won’t even acknowledge?”

Max just stared silently at himself - trying to figure it out what was happening.

Flip, catch, toss, “Let’s just leave that out there for now, shall we? We’ll move on. Have you ever been to Hoover Dam, Max?”

“No.”

“Its magnificent, really. But, you know, sometimes the dam cracks - did you know that? It’s true. And they can fill it in and patch it up, but underneath all that - the crack is still there. And always will be. And eventually, maybe decades later, the water will get through.”

Dams, coins, “What the hell are you talking about?”

“She’s cracked you. Didn’t you know?”

“Who?”

“Was it the eyes? Her eyes always got to me. Simply breathtaking.”

“What do you mean?”

Long haired Max just smiled and shrugged, “Its your dream.”

Flip, catch, toss the coin. He was up moving behind the counter now.

“How about time - you ever read any books about time travel - physics?”

Max shook his head.

“See, the really interesting thing about time, is its not sequential - one, two, three. It’s more like the back of a tapestry - one lifetime interwoven with the next, twisted, knotted - to make the masterpiece on the other side. That’s what dejavue is - its where those threads meet - where they’re tied together - things you’ve heard, places you’ve been, words you’ve said - all bound together. Its inescapable. You can try and untie them, but you can’t - cause you can’t change the picture on the other side.”

Max sat down in one of the booths - it looked - familiar. What the hell was going on?

“I don’t understand any of this.”

“Yeah, I know that.. But you better…and soon - before its too late. All the answers - everything you’ve ever needed to know is right in front of you. You just have to look, Max .”

“I am looking.” Max protested, finally losing patience with his own selves’ riddles.

And then he was gone - and Max was alone in the diner. He quickly looked around, but no one was there.

And then heard his voice whisper, right next to him,

“Not with your eyes.”

And suddenly he woke up - sitting up in bed - panicked - gasping for breath.

He got out of bed, he went to the bathroom and splashed water on his face. He looked at himself in the mirror and thought he looked different somehow - but he couldn’t pinpoint in what way.

Though in was only five in the morning, he decided to jog to the hospital knowing he’d never get back to sleep.

The dream disturbed him - what did it mean? Why was he dreaming at all? Why now?

He needed to talk to Langley.

Many many thanks to all of you who are reading this and for your fb!


Chapter 19

After punishing his body with the four mile run, Max went straight to the hospital cafeteria on the first floor to get a bottle of water. That’s where he found Langley, carrying a coffee cup.

When Kal saw Max he said, “You people around here are Neanderthals - you know that? Can’t even make a decent espresso.”

Max rushed right in, but kept his voice low, “I need to talk to you.”

“Is it about Liz?” Kal returned.

“No.”

“Then I don’t care.”

“Wait - it’s important. Have you ever heard of side effects from healing someone? Or side effects from a flash?” Max kept in step beside the shape shifter as he walked.

“What kind of side effects?”

“I don’t know - changes…like things are shifting. Its difficult to put into words. Dreams.”

“Dreams? Do I look like Sigmund - fucking - Freud to you?” Kal responded, impatiently.

“I’m telling you something’s different. I feel - I feel like someone else." Max searched for the right words, "Like something is awakening inside me.”

“Awakening?” Kal mimicked, “Are you a poet now?”

“I’m serious!”

“So am I.”

Kal finally stopped when they’d reached the main lobby. Keeping his voice hushed, he turned his full attention to Max, “Look, lets get something straight - I am not here for you. You or your band of merry men. I’m not your friend or your advisor. The only reason I'm here is for Liz.”

He wiped his hand down his face and continued, “Do you know how hard this is for me? Do you ever think about anyone but yourself? I’m playing her - I’m setting her up to trust you - deceiving her. It sucks and its your fucking fault, because you won’t let this go. So don’t come to me with your awakenings - go to your protector, that’s what he’s…”

“Langley.”

The urgent tone Max used stopped Kal’s rant cold. He realized Max wasn’t looking at him, but past his shoulder, towards the elevators.

“Do you see that kid, walking to the elevators? With the three men behind him? That’s…”

“Nicolas.” Kal finished for him.

“Yeah.” Max confirmed as the group of four got onto an elevator and the doors began to close.

“Stairs.” Max ordered.

Kal dropped his coffee and followed Max to the stairwell - both taking the steps two at a time, trying to get to Liz before the group of skins did.

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

Liz was having the most delicious dream. A certain dark haired doctor was performing a very thorough examination on her - but they weren’t at the hospital - they were in her bedroom.

She was rudely awakened by the sound of shouting and opened her eyes to realize it was coming from outside her door. When the shouting ceased, an angry looking boy, he looked to be about fourteen, walked into her room trailing three men behind him.

Liz reflexively pulled the sheet up to her chin and asked, “Are you lost?”

The boy, who reminded her of a pubescent version of chucky, stood at the foot of her bed and cracked his neck to the side. He focused his eyes on her and smiled, “Well aren’t you a pretty little thing. You wanna play a game?”

Liz was confused and not a little bit afraid - what the hell was going on?

Evil boy, as Liz now referred to him in her mind, flexed his hand cracking his knuckles and said, “I’ve always liked hide and seek myself. How about you try to hide something and I try to find it? In your head.”

The next moments were a blur as Max and Kal crashed into her room, and she suddenly found a green shimmering light in front of her - make that all around her. She watched, unbelieving as Kal fought with two of the men, somehow pushing one across the room - without touching him.

He smacked the other on the back of the head with a food tray, and Liz watched, incredulous, as that man disintegrated into dust before her eyes. Kal then crossed the room and repeated the action to the man on the floor with the same result.

She must be hallucinating. What the hell kind of drugs were they giving her?

The green shimmer disappeared for a moment, and a white light struck the third man, on the back of the head, as he turned to try and get out the door. He too, turned to dust, like the vampires used to on that show she’d watched in high school - Buffy something. Then the green bubble was back.

Evil boy, by this time, had made his way to the open window. When the fighting stopped, he cockily looked at Max, who she just realized was practically on the bed with her, also encased within the green, and said, “Well, your timing’s rotten as usual, Max. Interrupted all the fun sweetness and I were gonna have. I’ll have to take a rain check on that game darlin’. But don’t worry - I’ll see you again real soon.” With that he winked at her and proceeded to jump out the window.

Kal rushed to the window after him, looked out and turned to Max, “He’s gone.”

Gone? Gone? Didn’t he mean dead? Wasn’t it like a four story drop to the parking lot?

The green shimmer disappeared again - actually it seemed to retract into…into Max’s hand?

Fearing for her sanity, Liz turned her round eyes to Kal and whispered, “Kal? What‘s happening? What was that?”

xmag - i think in some ways, max and kal are extremely similiar in this story. and there's no getting around it - kal has been very selfish in the past - hopefully his feelings and relationship with liz can redeem him - fmax ordered him to protect her and keep her safe and healthy - but he didn't have to love her - he'd done that all on his own. thanks for you comments - so much.
Galliard - thank you - that's so nice of you to say - i really like kal and tess in this fic myself - i think the writers on the show really wasted a lot of potential drama with them!
kay_b - yep no way around it!
cjsl8ne - nic and co will be back before you know it! backup for kal may come from an unlikely source
pandas2001 - thanks! maybe nasedo called the skins - it looks that way doesn't it? or maybe it was just a coincidence???
roswell4life - thanks and yes they do!
Natalie36 - yeah he's in a tough position
katdid - thank you - wouldn't you? i'll take dreaming about max evans over reality any day!
Wench on a Leash - thank you for all your help and comments! TI looks like nasedo called nicolas - doesn't it? or maybe its just some strange roswellian coincidence? we'll have to wait and see.

Thank you all so much for reading this - you're the best!

Chapter 20

Song - Realize by Colbie Caillat

By most standards, Roswell New Mexico, was considered a small town. Except for the yearly influx of alien seeking tourists, during the annual crash festival, it was not a hot spot vacation destination. Within the city limits, in fact, there was only one motel - a one level strip of rooms, similar to those found in “The Bates Motel” depicted in Hitchcock’s famed film. It was to this motel, with the oh so original name, The Roswell Motel, that Max Evans was currently driving to.

Langley had called him that morning, explaining that Liz had wanted to meet with him. It had been four days, since Nicolas’ attack. Four days since Liz Parker had discovered the existence of other worldly life - and the fact that she had been living with one such life form for most of her life.

Max’s initial reaction to what Liz had seen was to mind warp her. It was always his first instinct - to lie - to hide. But Langley would have none of it. So they’d told her - everything.

Liz had been shocked - filled with disbelief - in spite of what she’d witnessed. She had even gone so far as to suggest a possible carbon monoxide leak in the hospital that was making them all delusional. Eventually, belief began to settle in - and she realized everything they had told her was real.

When understanding began to dawn on her face, Max left the room - explaining the need to call the others - tell them about Nicolas, about Liz discovering what they were, and also to take a leave of absence from the hospital as the latest turn of events would require his full time and attention.

He had also left at that point, because he didn’t want to see the look on her face, when it all sunk in. He didn’t want to see the repulsion, the revulsion, he knew would be there. The things he’d done, the person he was - although it had never bothered him - he was sure - the parts she’d now know - would bother her. He didn’t know why the thought upset him - it just did. And so he’d taken the cowards way out and left.

And he hadn’t seen her since.

Langley had checked her out of the hospital the next day - saying it would be safer - there were too many unknown faces walking about - too many people with access to Liz’s room - and any one of them could be a skin. Langley moved them into the motel, and told him Liz needed time to absorb everything - that he would take care of protecting her.

Max didn’t like someone else calling the shots. But he had not argued - Langley knew Liz best - if time was what he thought she needed - who was Max to disagree? Besides - he had other people to deal with. He reported the attack and Liz’s knowledge of who they were to Isabel, Tess, Michael and Nasedo.

Michael and Isabel had taken it so much better then he’d expected. Isabel thought it was better that Liz knew - it was out of the way - it would have been much too difficult to connect with her while simultaneously trying to keep her in the dark about their true nature. They both felt that because of her relationship with Langley, the fear that she would turn them in, was not a concern.

Tess and Nasedo had voiced no opinion - and had in fact been unusually quiet regarding the activity of the last week.

Michael had been much more worried about how the skins had found out about Liz so quickly. They’d always suspected Nicolas had spies in Roswell - watching them - he’d always been in step with them - any new clue, any new discovery and Nicolas would make some sort of appearance. The attack on Liz confirmed their suspicions and suggested there were skin agents most likely working right in the hospital. If Nicolas knew who “Kunar” had transformed himself into - if a spy noticed Max’s focus on Liz or Nasedo’s presence in the hospital, it would not take much to put together that Liz Parker may somehow be connected to them.

That Nicolas had made such a semi-public attack disturbed Max greatly. He had always been the “smash and grab” type, but his latest actions suggested he was getting desperate. And a desperate skin was a truly dangerous one. They’d been so lucky this time - no one had heard the commotion in the hospital room - no one had seen the seemingly teenage boy vault out an upper floor window - and Langley had “disposed” of the bodies of his security team quickly. But Max could not let Nicolas strike again - he didn’t think they’d be so lucky a second time.

Then, there were the other “changes” that weighed heavily on his mind. The dreams came regularly now - sometimes two each night. His other self had never again made an appearance, but each dream was more vivid, more real then the next - each one filled with emotions he’d never let himself feel in his waking hours.

Two nights ago he had dreamed of Michael - sick - covered in an unearthly web, his eyes as white as poisonous milk. And Max had felt fear - helplessness at not knowing how to cure his friend.

And last night, he had dreamed of Liz - and it was that dream that haunted him still. He had seen himself - a younger version of himself and Liz, in the desert. He had felt such passion - lust - he was unable not to touch her. It was the closest thing he’d ever had to a wet dream. And she had been so willing - had looked at him with such trust and openness.

Max didn’t really fight the dreams or the emotions he was subjected to within them - not anymore. But he wondered what it meant that he was dreaming now - were they a warning of things to come - or an echo of how things could have been? When they came, he let them wash over him like a wave- let himself go - let himself float with their current, to take him where they would.

He pulled into the parking lot and stared at the door - room 127.

Max didn't know what had come over him in the hospital room, the other day. How he had reached for her hand, how he had been almost hypnotized by her eyes. Whatever it had been, he was determined not to let it overtake him again.

This was business - work - he would stay focused on his goal and in control. He wiped his moist palms on his jeans - refusing to acknowledge his nervousness - he was eager to get things underway with Liz but had no idea what to expect from her - and he’d never been one for surprises.

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

Steeling himself, he knocked on the door. Liz answered, dressed casually in jeans and a white tee shirt, her dark hair long and loose.

“Please come in.” She said coolly as she stepped back.

Max walked in, looked around and wondered if he’d gone to the wrong place. The suite was huge - as if three rooms had been combined into one. The door opened to a living room, with a large kitchen to the left. Max could see a small hallway, with two doors at the end, to what he assumed were bedrooms. Music played softly from speakers within the freshly painted walls - all the furniture was new. “Nice place.” Max commented.

She shrugged as if it were nothing special, “Kal had some work done while I was comatose, he said he wanted it to be “suitable.” Would you like something to drink?”

Take time to realize
That your worth is
Crashing down on in.

“No thank you.” Max noticed how stiff and business- like she was. So unlike the girl he had had just a few words with the other day - when she had first opened her eyes - so unlike the girl he had dreamed about.

Take time to realize,
That I am on your side
Didn’t I, didn’t I tell you.

Liz looked the man before her up and down. He was on edge - his strong forearms tense - his body was strained - ready to react. The attraction was still there - the pull to know more about him, that she had felt the moment she’d first laid eyes on him. The knowledge was there, that this could go somewhere - that this attraction could grow into something strong - something passionate. But she resisted the feeling - could she trust it? Could she believe it? Was it hers? Or was it some left-over feeling from another time - another her?

But I can’t spell it out for you,
No, it’s never gonna be that simple
But I can’t spell it out for you

Max heard steps coming up the hall and turned, “Max.” Langley greeted.

“Langley.” Max returned.

“Everything going alright?” Langley asked Liz.

“We’re fine.” Liz responded shortly. “You can go.”

Max watched Langley turn and leave the room - reminding Max of one of those dogs you see on pamphlets asking for donations to prevent animal abuse - he looked kicked.

“You’re upset with Langley?” Max asked raising his eyebrows.

“Upset? Why would I be upset - just because I’ve been lied to my entire life? No - no - I’m just dandy.” She replied sarcastically.

“You’ve never lied to him?” Max asked .

“No,” she whispered and the anger was gone, replaced with pain, “I don’t think I ever have.”

If you just realize what I’ve just realized,
Then we’d be perfect for each other
And we’ll never find another

Max felt his chest tighten at the look on her face. “He’s still the same man, Liz. He’s still… him.”

“That’s not the point.”

“You should have seen him when they brought you in. I’ve seen a lot of families in waiting rooms - and he - he was just wrecked.”

“I know that - I know he cares. It’s just - hard, you know? Knowing that there was this huge part of him - of me - that I never knew about. That he didn’t tell me.” And it was all there in her eyes - anger, pain uncertainty, mixed in a brew of shining tears.

Just realized what I just realized
We’d never have to wonder if
We missed out on each other now.

Max leaned forward towards her, “I have some experience with making tough decisions - so I’ll enlighten you.” He said, sounding harsher than he’d meant to. “Langley had two choices - tell you everything and risk exposing you to some terrible things - some truly evil beings. Or keep you in the dark - and try to give you a life filled with beauty and adventure and love - the life every little girl dreams of.”

“You don‘t know anything about my life.” Who did he think he was?

“I saw it. When I healed you - the swing set - the mansion - the trips to Africa - and in almost all of them you were happy and laughing and fulfilled. So I wouldn‘t be too hard on him, if I were you. Sometimes lies are necessary - sometimes you have to do bad things to protect the people you love.” And Max knew he was talking about himself as much as Kal Langley.

Take time to realize
Oh-oh I’m on your side
Didn’t I, didn’t I tell you.

“Why do you even care?”

“I don’t…” Max had started to say he didn’t care at all, but it came out, “I don’t…know.” But he did. He didn’t want her to feel betrayed, he didn’t want her to feel hurt. He wanted her to know that the choices that had been made were made out of love and concern…for her.

“He wanted me to leave you know. He told me to take the jet and just go.” Liz stated.

Take time to realize
That this all can pass by
Didn’t I, didn’t I tell you

Max snorted bitterly, “I’m not surprised.” And then Max paused, and looked her in the eyes, “Why didn’t you?”

“Truthfully?” She said slowly, “Because you saved my life. Because from what Kal told me, you’ve been looking your whole life for a way to get back to your home - and somehow - I may know the way. Because you healed me, and I…want to return the favor.”

But I can’t spell it out for you,
No it’s never gonaa be that simple
But I can’t spell it out for you.

Max was speechless, he’d never met someone…like her. She didn’t have to stay, but she did - and not out of fear or loyalty- but to simply help him. He swallowed hard, humbled, not sure what to say next.

If you just realized what I just realized
Then we’d be perfect for reach other
And we’d never find another

“So, the scion,” the word still feeling odd on her lips, “Do you really think it points the way to the Grano thing?”

“The Granolith?” Max thought for a moment, “Yes - I do.”

“Why?”

Liz felt his stare, he was suddenly transfixed by her face, and he spoke as if he were in another place, “Because I felt what he felt. And if I was him, there’s no one else I would have given it to.”

Just realized what I’ve just realized
We’d never have to wonder if
We missed out on each other but.

“So for this to work, you and I have to become - friends?’

“That’s the plan.”

“And you were going to try and do this, without telling me the reason - you were going to pretend to be my friend so you could get in my head? Do I have that right? Feel free to correct me if I’m wrong. You realize what a shitty thing that is to do to someone?” She asked accusingly.

“ It was a means to an end. Was it the kindest plan in the world - no - but it would have gotten me what I needed and kept you alive in the process.” Max explained.

“And is that what I am - a means to an end?”

Max ignored her question a moment and asked one of his own, “Why do you seem, so okay with all of this?” It was so odd for him - to be talking to someone - about his plans, about what he was. He was suspicious by nature, and he couldn’t believe how - accepting - she was being.

If you just realized what I just realized
Then we’d be perfect for reach other
And we’d never find another

Liz shrugged, “It’s pretty much all I’ve thought about for the last four days. And then there’s Kal - I mean - I love him - I still love him. Knowing he’s…one of you doesn’t change that. It’s the lying I’m having trouble with. And the time traveling part - it’s just bizarre. I feel like…like I have amnesia - like there’s a whole part of my life that I should remember but don’t. But, then I guess it wasn’t my life, huh? I just keep wondering what I was like - what the people I would have grown up with were like.”

She looked at Max then - Kal’d said he had loved her - had she loved him? God what must it have felt like to be loved by him? So much that they would have done anything - everything - for each other? She wished she knew what that felt like.

Just realized what I’ve just realized
We’d never have to wonder if
We missed out on each other.

“Well by my count, this is my…third life - so believe me when I say I know how you feel.”

Liz gave a small laugh at his comment, and grimaced as the action caused the throbbing to return to her stomach - reminding her that the gunshot wound that had almost taken her life was not completely healed.

Seeing her flinch and clutch her midsection, Max asked, “Are you alright?”

“Yeah,” she said quickly, regaining her composure, “Just still a little sore.”

“Can I…” Max began, suddenly shy. He cleared his throat and said, more forcefully “Let me see it.”

It’s not that same
No it’s never the same
If you don’t feel it too.

Throughout his medical career, he’d seen hundreds of naked bodies - intimate parts of the womanly form - but they’d never aroused him - he was a doctor - his focus was the injury, not the body around it. But as Liz lifted her shirt, Max found himself noticing the slightness of her hips, her flat toned waist, the smooth tanned skin.

If you meet me half way

Liz timidly bared herself to him. It was ugly, she knew - when she hadn‘t been thinking about all that Kal had told her, she‘d spent her time fingering the line of jagged stitches. It was vain, yes, but she‘d never before felt so unattractive - damaged - knowing she would carry the hideous scar the rest of her life.

Max knelt before her, and tried to concentrate. He observed that the wound was clean and would heal completely if left alone for a few more days. But, why not heal it completely now? Why leave her in discomfort - when he had the ability to take it away?

If you’d meet me half way
It could be the same for you.

He placed his large hand on her stomach, covering the injury, and as his hand began to glow, he drank in the images he saw.

Langley teaching Liz to dance, as she stepped on his feet and they laughed,

Liz putting on make-up in the mirror, her hair piled high on her head, dressed in a red strappy prom dress,

Liz sitting on a window seat in her room, gazing at the stars, late at night.

Liz saw no flashes, but felt soothing warmth - like heated stones - spread from her stomach - and the soreness was gone. She tingled where he had touched her, but she didn’t think it was from the alien powers - it was from his bare hand on her bare flesh - it felt exquisite.

If you just realize what I just realized
Then we’d be perfect for each other
And we’d never find another

When she opened her eyes, she looked down, Max still kneeling before her. He was staring at her stomach - pristine once more. When Liz saw her skin restored, she looked at him in wonder - in awe.

In that moment, to her he was…amazing.

Just realize realize
What I’ve just realized

No one had ever looked at Max that way before. He felt a warmth in his own stomach -that he had been able to do this for her.

“Thank you.” She whispered, “That was…”

“Your welcome.” he whispered back, suddenly bashful, but still relishing the look on her face, for the first time grateful for what he was - seeing his ability as she saw it - a gift- not a burden to be hidden. “You’ll be alright now.” he said softly, and had the urge to place a kiss on her stomach.

We’d never have to wonder if
We missed out on each other.

He shook off the urge and stood, keeping contact with her eyes, and sat down on the couch across from her. Liz wet her dry lips, entranced by the way he was looking at her. Max Evans was a mystery - he seemed to be able to turn his feelings on and off at will - one minute distant and tense, the next warm and gentle. He was a puzzle and she once again found herself wanting to know more about him - how his mind worked - what made him like this?

She walked to the window, breaking eye contact, getting her thoughts back together.

“Have you ever told anyone else?” She asked, staring at the sky as the sun began its descent.

“No.”

“Not your parents? Friends?”

“We don’t really have any friends - just each other. As for my parents - no. We couldn’t risk it - that they would turn us in or that knowing would put them in danger.”

Just realize what I just realized

How lonely that must be, she thought - always suspicious, never letting your guard down. She looked at him with sympathy and started to think of Kal - and how lonely it must have been for him as well. Always afraid that someone - that she - would find out who he was. “That must be hard.”

If you just realize what I just realized

“It is what it is.” Max shrugged. It hadn’t been hard really - not for him. He wouldn’t let himself feel guilty about it. “There are hunters Liz - secret units. They would do anything - hurt anyone to get to us. I’m sure Langley told you - no one else can know.”

“Of course.” She agreed - but she wasn’t worried. Kal would never let anyone hurt her. And as soon as the thought came to her - the guilt Max had never let himself feel, hit her square in the chest. Kal. Kalvin - he’d always provided for her - she had wanted for nothing - material or emotional.

How hard that must have been for him - to show her such love and affection never having known it himself. And he had protected her - sheltered her - always. She had always known, just as she did now, that he would do anything, sacrifice anything to keep her safe.

If you just realize what I just realized

And she had been terrible to him. Since finding out the truth, she had been distrustful - distant - blaming him, because one night a man walked into his house and changed the course of her life completely, like she was nothing more then a pawn on a chess board.

She looked down the hall to the door where she knew Kal was, and felt awful - sorry for the way she had been acting. She hadn’t seen things from his side, but talking to Max, hearing the lonesomeness he didn’t even know was in his voice, she saw what a difficult task Kal had been given.

Oh…
Missed out on each other now

“So, how are we going to do this, exactly - we just start…hanging out?”

“I guess so. We’ll spend some time together, get to know each other, and hopefully, soon you’ll trust me enough to access the scion.” Max swallowed hard, thinking about how they would spend that time exactly. He liked talking to her - she intrigued him. And he liked looking at her - he loved the way she looked at him.

“You realize this is going to be weird? I mean, friendships usually just happen - not because they have to happen?” She raised her eyebrows.

“Yeah - I get that.” Though he really didn’t - he’d never done this before. “I’m hoping we can work past it.”

Missed out on each other now

“And no more lies.” She shook her head at him, “No more tricks or deceptions, Max. If I found out you’ve lied to me, me and my scion will be on the next plane out of here. And I think we both know you’ll have a hard time finding me.”

“That’s reasonable.” He answered, and then added “Turn that music off - would you?”

“You don’t like music?” She loved music - it was her job - her life.

‘It’s distracting.”

“It’s soothing.”

“It’s noisy.”

“I think its calming.”

“Are you always so stubborn?”

“Are you always so bossy?”

Max smile sarcastically, “This is starting out great.”

Realize, realize

Liz smiled as well, “What about the rest of you? Your family, your sister - shouldn’t I meet them too?” She asked, again, wanting to know more about him - the people around him.

“I guess we could arrange a meeting - if you wanted.” Max wasn’t sure it was such a great idea. Michael could be so blunt - Nasedo could be, well kind of scary at times, actually - and Tess - he didn't really know how she would react to Liz.

“I do.” Liz said with a smile, “But another time. I should…I should really talk to Kal tonight.”

Realize, realize

Max nodded his head - understanding. Smiling like she was now, she looked so much more carefree then when he had first arrived - lighter. So much like the girl from his dream - whose face was perpetually on his mind. He scratched behind his ear, nervously, as he rose. “Well, I’ll just go - and let you get to that then.”

She walked him to the door and held out her hand, “Thank you, for coming over. I’m looking forward to…knowing you.”

Realize, realize

When he touched her hand to shake it, it was warm and comforting - her touch felt familiar but new - like…coming home after a very long journey.

“So am I.” Max answered, pleasantly surprised, because he realized it was very much the truth.

Realize, realize.