Roswell Fanatics

Hi guys!! it's been a little while, huh? Sorry about that. I kind of got carried away and this part is a little long so I'm gonna post it in two halves.

Thank you for all the bumps and FB,

FOURTEEN~A

“I’m going to go to New Zealand,” Liz announced over dinner.

“Then I’m coming with you,” Nancy said instantly.

“I am too,” Maria agreed.

Liz smiled. “What?”

“What kind of a mother would I be if I let my pregnant daughter travel half the way across the world by herself?” Nancy said.

“Yeah, and what kind of a best friend would I be if I let you go to another country—to live! And I didn’t go with you?” Maria cried. “I would be a darn bad one, that is for sure.”

“Are you serious? You two would just pick up everything and follow me to New Zealand?”

“It sounds like a really nice place,” Nancy said. Sadly she added, “I have nothing here now. I may as well go. You are my only family Lizzie.”

“I couldn’t continue here without you,” Maria said. “You have been with me my whole life. What would I do without you? We will do nursing in a hospital in New Zealand.”

“You would really do this for me?” Liz started to cry. “I don’t deserve you two.”

“Oh sweetie,” Maria put her knife and fork down. “Don’t cry.”

“I am not crying,” Liz said and let out a loud wail. “Maria what about all your other friends?”

“You are my best friend.”

They sat in silence. They were all deep in thought. What did the future hold?

“I think that if we leave quickly, we might get there before Max and I could surprise him,” said Liz. She was absolutely delighted.

Nancy noticed the change.

“Do you know where he lives?” Maria asked.

“Napier,” Liz replied. “He told me it was on the hill—well, his parents live on the hill. He lives on the edge of a pond that is joined to the ocean. What was it’s name?” she paused. “I have it written down.”

Nancy was thinking sensibly. “I will need to find a home. I imagine it will be difficult.”

“Max will help you, so will his father.”

Maria smiled brightly. “I am getting excited! How soon so you think we can leave?”

“As soon as possible, please Mama?” Liz begged.

“If it is possible, we shall leave on the next Ocean Liner.”

Maria and Liz hugged excitedly. “Oh, I remember. Its name is Pandora. It isn’t really a pond; it’s more just a section off part of the ocean. His home is near the harbour. Napier is just surrounded by beaches.”

“You make it seem so perfect,” Nancy said. “Picturesque even.”

“That is because I know it will be,” she replied. “I just know it.”

~*~

The next two weeks were spent packing and saying goodbye to America. Liz spent the time growing her and Max’s baby. She was just so eager to go that the departure day seemed forever and a day away.

Through the weeks American soldiers and nurses came back in a flood. Maria was working at the hospital and kept Liz and Nancy posted on who was back. A couple of nights before they were to leave for New York all the girls went out to a local club. It was a going away party for Maria and Liz, but it was also a chance for everyone to catch up and share their war stories.

“Liz!” Tess cried and ran up to her to give her a hug. “It is so good to see you. I heard about your father and Aunt, I am so sorry.”

Liz smiled dimly. “Don’t be.”

“How is your mother?”

Liz did not want to talk about it. “My mother is coping. How are you?”

“Nah ah,” Tess said. “I am boring. You know what else I heard?”

Liz looked down at her black high-heel dance shoes. “What else have you heard about me Tess?”

“That you are pregnant,” she said loudly.

“Oh, and dare I ask who told you that?”

“Maria!” Tessa answered. “Is it true? Who is the father?”

Liz shot a look at Maria who just shrugged and gulped down the rest of her drink. “You never said you did not want anyone to know.”

“It is Major Evans’ isn’t it?” Isabel cut into the conversation.

Liz turned deep crimson and, not catching anyone’s eyes, nodded her head slightly.

“WOW!” Tessa said. “I knew it. I always knew you liked him. I fancied him too, how could I not? I got to sponge-bath him and you would have to be crazy not to be interested.” She wiggled her eyebrows suggestively.

Everyone laughed.

Liz’s heart sank. God, she missed him so, so much.

Soon, she told herself. Soon she was going to hold him in her arms again.

~*~

Daniel accompanied them to New York. It was hard for Liz to say goodbye to him, she distanced herself for the whole journey so she did not have to face the sadness in his eyes.

He insisted on coming to make sure they left safely and all their belongings were on the ship. He felt as if he needed to be the one to look after them now. With Mr. Parker gone, someone had to tend to the women.

At the wharf they were instantly sucked into the flutter of activity. The area around the departing liner was a chaos of honking cars and taxies. There were acres of suitcases and giant metal trunks; there were police, custom agents, long shore men, and crowds of passengers and well wishers that numbered in the thousands.

Liz stood in her designer winter-coat, silk scarf and hat watching as her belongings were carried aboard. Her silk stockings and heels did not stop the harsh winter breeze attacking her ankles.

She promised herself she would not cry when Daniel came to stand beside her.

“I have to go,” she tried to convince him. “I cannot live without Max. From the moment I met him, I could not stay away. He will just love this child and it will make him so happy. You know before he even knew me he said, ‘I love you, will you marry me?’” Liz started to sob. “He was so scared he was going to die and the look in his eyes…from that second, I just knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life making sure he never looked that scared ever again.

“New Zealand will be good for me. It will be good for my mother too; she needs to get away from this place. America holds nothing for her now, only sad memories of her sister and my father.
Maria…she wants to come and I would be lying if I told her I did not need her with me. I love you Daniel and I will miss you so much, but this is right. Everything in my life has never meant as much to me as Max does. He is my life and my heart and I would travel anywhere for him. I would do anything.”

Daniel wrapped his arms around her and she sobbed onto his chest. All the fears she had been keeping inside escaped with her tears, “He is okay, isn’t he Daniel? He is going to be there when I get there and he is going to look into my eyes and tell me he always knew. He didn’t die out there all alone without me, did he? So close to the end…” she clenched her eyes shut. “He told me a life in New Zealand by my side was all he wants. I am so scared that he won’t have that, that he has died so close to the end.”

Daniel kissed the top of her head and held her tightly in his arms. “He will be there,” he said emotionally. “Like he could leave you, who could ever leave you Liz? He would have to be crazy.”

She let herself be comforted by him.

“You go after him and prove that you would follow him anywhere and you are. Just promise, God help me, you will write to let us all know you are okay?”

She looked up at him with her red eyes. “Nothing could stop me,” she said honestly.

“I love you,” he said. “Anything you ever need hunt me down and I’ll find it for you. If that Max does not take care of you…”

“He will.”

Daniel nodded. “He better.”

“Time to go,” Nancy said as she approached them.

Liz wiped her eyes and pulled away from Daniel. “Where is Maria?”

“Flirting with that policeman over there,” Nancy said and laughed, “Oh to be young again.”

Daniel smiled. “Maria, always the same.” After a second he turned his attention back to Liz. “Have a safe trip,” he said. He couldn’t help himself; he leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to her lips.

She was shocked but didn’t say anything. Nancy hugged him and said she would miss him then took Liz’s arm.

“Goodbye,” Daniel said as they walked away.

Liz looked back at him and smiled. “Goodbye Daniel.”

~*~

On board, it was as much of a chaos as it had been down at the wharf. With ships staff trying vainly to do their duty, staterooms and suits packed to overflowing with visitors. Champagne corks were popping all about—toasts to the happy voyage—and portable record players were turned to full volume.

Liz hid her red eyes under her large hat as they approached their first class suits. Jeffery had worked hard to be a wealthy man so they would enjoy such luxuries as first class and none of the women were taking it for granted.

“Would you like to go out onto the deck to wave goodbye to Daniel?” Maria asked. “I am going.”

“Yes, I will come,” Nancy said. “Liz?”

Liz was up with the clouds. “Hmm? Pardon? No, I will stay here. I need to rest, this baby is tiring me. Wave goodbye to America for me” She did not have the strength to lay her eyes on Daniel again. She tried not to think about what that kiss had meant.

“I will. Take care. We will be back soon.”

While Liz was undressing several maids were walking around and putting away their belongings in shelves and draws. A young lady who introduced herself as Beattie helped her settle under the covers and made her some lemon tea. “Would you like the heaters turned up mam?”

“Please call me Liz.” She closed her eyes. “The heaters are fine. Would you get me a warm towel to dab on my forehead? I feel quite ill.”

Beattie came back and sat by her side. She dabbed her forehead quietly. “I would like you to be my maid while I am here Beattie,” Liz said before drifting off.

For the duration of the journey she tried to keep herself busy socializing with the other women in the tea rooms and getting air on the deck. She did her best not worry about Max and whether he was safe.

But what if she got there only to find he was, in fact, dead and gone forever? How could she live?

She was nervous and excited about meeting his parents. He had told her he wanted to introduce to her to everyone. If he was there already he would be able to do that. If he wasn’t, she would have to do it on her own.

The ship would dock in Auckland and they would travel down south by train to Napier. From that point on, only one thing would be certain to her—she was in New Zealand she would never leave.

She was going to live in his house and wait every single day for the rest of her life for him. Even if he did not turn up straight away, he was bound to show up in time.

On top of everything she had the blossoming insecurities that he had found someone else, or, he would be horrified when he found out she was pregnant.

Her lack of self-confidence was disheartening so she tried to push that away, too.

Before she knew it, several, several days later they were practically there.

“Maria,” she whispered, “we will be in New Zealand tomorrow.”

“Yeah!” Maria said excitedly. “Finally.”

Liz started freaking out. “Oh God, he is going to take one look at me and think, what ever possessed me to think she was beautiful? He is going to send me packing isn’t he?”

“Liz,” Maria rolled her eyes. “I am going to pretend I did not hear that and just gently remind you of the letter he sent you not so long ago. I suggest you go read it right now so he can knock some sense into you.”

Liz rubbed her temples. “I know I am being silly,” she said.

“Yeah you are.”

They arrived early afternoon on a beautiful sunny, just slightly windy, day. That was surreal in itself; the day they had departed it was the heart of winter with snow and cold blustery weather. In New Zealand it was the heart of summer.

“It never snows in Napier,” Liz said happily.

It was just after Christmas, December twenty-ninth, and many families were on holiday so the wharf was absolutely packed. They had spent Christmas on the ship.

When Liz first set foot on the concrete she felt a wave of relief flood through her. She had made it! She was here! She had done it, she was in New Zealand.

She looked around at the people and the buildings that were foreign to her. The town was a bustle of activity. Woman in summer gowns and frocks fluttered about the shops while the men had a cold brandy on the dusty, warm afternoon. Children played with hoops and marbles in the streets and old ladies knitted and sewed clothing on their verandas.

The sky above was a bright blue with sporadic white feathery clouds. She could remember only one afternoon in her life when she had felt this good and that was when she was in Italy with Max at the hospital. Helping him walk for the first time on his crutches.

This had all been waiting for her. All of this was exactly what she knew in her dreams.

She felt as if she had come home.

The people were incredibly friendly and many introduced themselves and asked where they were going. They even offered them a ride to the train station at the edge of town.

It was true, she had found her paradise.

The emerald hills rolled across the horizon to her left and the crystal ocean glistened to her right. She could tell by the look of wonder on Maria’s face she was as gay to be here as her mother.

They were all tired by the time they had sorted out transport for their furniture and then for themselves. They all sat on the train and waited for their five hour journey to pass.

Liz was staring out the window at the country side when her mother took her hands in her own. “Beautiful,” she said. “Just liked you said.”

Liz turned to look her. “It is better then I could have ever imagined.”

“Just greenery, greenery and more luscious greenery,” Maria commented. “When will we see another town?”

Nancy kissed her daughters forehead and wrapped her arms around her. “I know you are worried. Do not be scared sweetheart, nothing can go wrong now.”

“I wish I could believe that,” Liz mumbled and clung to her with all her might.

Maria patted her back. “We are both here; we will always be here.”

Liz smiled. “Thank you.”

The train rolled on across the fresh, alive land and occasionally stopped in towns to drop off other passengers. Four hours subsequent to leaving Auckland the train came to a slow but sure stop in Taupo.

Only an hour and half away from Napier.

Liz put her head in her hands and rubbed her temples.

“Come on darling,” Maria said. She ran her fingers through her hair. “We need to change trains.”

“I am so scared Maria,” Liz whispered. “I can not do it.”

“What’s to be scared of?” she asked. “Max is probably here and formulating a plan on how to get to you. Let’s go put him out of his misery. You could be spending the rest of tonight in his arms.”

Liz knew that was too good to be true. How could it be that easy after all of this? After waiting so long, how could she suddenly have it all placed in front of her? She didn’t know how to cope.

“God Maria,” Liz whispered. “I want that so much.”

“Then come on, lover boy is waiting,” Maria said. “Nancy and I will be right by your side.”

...Part B coming soon!

Okay here it is, now Lana we're hanging out for a new part from you!

FOURTEEN-B

They stopped at the cafeteria for a sweet biscuit and cup of tea before continuing their trip.

“I am having trouble comprehending this as my new home,” Nancy said. She was absolutely delighted by what she was seeing. She wanted Liz to know that. “I have scarcely ever seen so much prettiness. Maria, do you not agree?”

“Oh very much so,” Maria said. “It is quite amazing.”

Liz smiled at them both. “You do not regret coming?”

“Oh my no,” Nancy said. “How could we?”

With her muscles tensed and her lips pursed, Liz sat unmoving for the rest of the trip. She was too nervous to do anything.

Maria was the first to get up when the train arrived in Napier. Liz suspected she was just so sick of travelling.

“Come on Darling, you can do it,” she said and practically yanked her to her feet. “We’ll go do this together.”

It was just after seven in the evening. “You don’t think it would be better to stay in a homestead until the morning?”

Nancy and Maria glanced at each other. “No. It is not that late. Anyway, do you think that could even be an option?”

Liz thought for a second. “No, you are right. I could not do it.”

“I thought so, let’s go.”

“Number ten Colenso Ave,” Liz told the driver.

The three of them spent the short journey up Bluff Hill staring out the taxi windows assessing their new home. They were dropped off right outside the house and the driver helped them unload their belongings onto the pavement. It was huge! A three-story white house sat in front of them. Liz loved it; it was weatherboard and had shutters on every window and a huge garden. The lights were on down stairs and she were all itching to know if Max was in there. It reeked elegance and loving family.

“Ready?” Nancy asked her daughter.

Liz nodded. The gentle throb of her heart-beat intensified.

Maria opened the front gate and they headed up the pathway.

“At least they aren’t out,” Liz mumbled under her breath.

Just as they were heading up the brick steps the front door flung open and a tall lady with dark hair and hopeful eyes said, “Ma—” Her face dropped. “Oh…”

“Mrs. Evans?” Liz asked nervously.

“I am sorry, I thought you were my son,” she said and wiped the tears that were forming in her eyes. I was hoping you were my son[i/]. “Please, call me Diane. Who are you?” Liz could see why Max had described his mother as beautiful.

“My name is Liz Parker,” Liz said. “And this is my mother Nancy and my friend Maria.”

Diane nodded. “How can I help you?”

“I-I,” Liz didn’t know what to say. She had practiced the conversation she would have with his mother so many times but suddenly her mind was blank. “Would you mind if we came in for a moment?”

“If you’d like,” she replied. “Is something wrong?” she held the door open for them to walk through.

“Diane! Have you seen my tie for tomorrow?”

“Philip, we have guests,” Diane said. “Come through to the lounge, would you like anything to drink?”

Liz froze as soon as she walked through the door. There were pictures of Max everywhere.

“Tea? Coffee? Soda?”

“Tea would be wonderful,” Nancy said.

Maria asked for water. “Liz?”

Liz sniffled to keep the tears from falling from her eyes. “I am fine thank you.”

“Take a seat, I will be right back,” Diane said.

“She is lovely,” Maria commented after they’d sat. “Kind and beautiful. She doesn’t even know us and she’s welcomed us into her home.”

Nancy nodded in agreement.

A man walked in through the archway. “Oh…hello,” he said. He had salt and pepper hair with dark eyes. His cheeks were chubby and the lines on his forehead were deep but something in his character instantly reminded Liz of Max. “Who are you?”

Diane came back into the room and handed Nancy and Maria their drinks. “We are just about to find out, darling.” She took a seat on the chair in front of them.

“Mrs. Evans, Mr. Evans,” Liz said emotionally. “Would you be so kind as to tell me if Max is back in Napier?”

Instantly Diane and Philip tensed. “How…how do you know our son?” Philip asked.

“Please, I will tell you. I just…I need to know if he is here.”

“He isn’t,” Diane said. “We haven’t heard from him since before the war ended.”

Liz felt as if someone had driven a sharp knife through her gut. Tears nipped her eyes and she bit her lip to keep from crying out in anguish. “You haven’t?” She was in misery.

“No, have you?” Diane asked. “Do you have news?”

She bit her lip and shook her head. “No, I haven’t. I am sorry.”

Diane started to cry. “Oh no,” she said. “Oh no.”

Philip sat down next to his wife and wrapped his arm around her. “Come now dear, it will be alright.” He looked at Liz. “You know our son?”

“Your son and I…” she didn’t know what to say. “We meet in Italy and, I do not know quite how to tell you this…the child I am bearing…Max is the father. It is his child.” Instinctively her hand went to rest on her showing belly.

Gasps, from both Diane and Philip. “Excuse me?”

“I know this must be a huge shock,” Liz said. “It was a bolt from the blue for me too.”

“The baby is our sons?” Diane asked. “Our grandchild?”

She smiled unsurely. “Surprise!”

They didn’t smile back.

Liz looked at Nancy and Maria for support. They were both looking at her sympathetically.

“I know you are probably worrying that our child is the product of a one-night-stand but I can assure it isn’t. Max and I love each other very much and we’d panned to get married after the war was over. I thought he would be here by now.”

Diane and Philip were mute.

“I am sorry to spring this on you,” Liz continued. “I was hoping so much that Max would be here. He doesn’t know about the baby…”

Diane asked, “How far a long are you?”

“Five months,” she answered. “I wish he could have introduced me…” she started to cry. “I am sorry, I didn’t mean to…” she furiously wiped her eyes. “I just...”

“Oh sweetheart. Do not apologize,” Diane said. “You can cry. I am sorry Max isn’t here.”

“I was hoping so much,” Liz told her brokenly.

Nancy hugged her daughter tightly. “I think you have had enough stress for this evening. It will not be good for the baby. We should get going…”

“Wait,” Philip said. “Please…was our son happy when you saw him?”

“Yes, he was,” Liz answered. “He misses this place so much.”

Diane stood up. “Where are you staying? Where can we find you?”

“We haven’t found anywhere yet…”

“You must stay here! As a future daughter-in-law of mine you must, I will have it no other way,” Diane said. “All of you are very welcome. We have plenty of room.”

Philip nodded his head in agreement. “You can tell us about our son in the morning perhaps?”

“That would be so wonderful,” Liz said.

“We would be so grateful,” Maria added.

~*~
“This was his room before he moved down the hill,” Philip explained as he led her through the house. Inside the room Liz looked around and ran her fingers over the furniture. A small smile graced her tight lips.

“It certainly reminds me of him,” she said quietly. Glancing at Philip, she was momentarily taken aback by his similarities to Max. “He looks quite a lot like you.”

Philip was miserable and distant. “Yes, I know.”

“Would you,” Liz said aiming her voice at Diane in the doorway but still looking wondrously at Philip, “mind terribly if I…if I were to sleep in this room?”

Philip and Diane’s gazes touched. Liz watched their heart-rending expressions flicker.

“We would not mind,” Diane replied. “Not at all dear.”

“Thank you.”

In the early hours of the morning Liz sat on the bed clutching the quilts to her trembling chest. She buried her face in her knees and suffocated her sobs. Surely if he were alive he would have written his parents? Her hopelessness scared her. Sorrow raked her overwhelming heart. He might have gone to America, what then?

Tired and stiff Liz wrote a letter to her old house telling him of her arrival in New Zealand. It was all she could think of doing. Surely he was there he would go to her house and if he went to her house he might get the letter?

Hopeful and agitated she at last slept.

She spent the morning filling Diane and Philip in on her memories of Max in Italy and let them read parts of the letter he had sent her. Only some. Parts she would not let anyone see, they were meant for her eyes only and were far too intimate for anyone else to judge.

After lunch Maria and Liz went to the Napier hospital which was on Bluff Hill too. They could walk there in under ten minutes. Once inside, they requested jobs and gave their qualifications. They were hired instantly.

“We would be glad to have you,” said Aimee, the head nurse. “With our boys coming home from over seas everyday this place is filling up. When can you start? Tomorrow? That would be great!”

If Maria and Liz could have skipped home they would have.

Diane offered to take Liz down to Max’s house but Liz refused, saying that that was one part of Napier she wanted Max to show her.

“Well, if you ever change your mind. Walk through the Botanical gardens across the road from the hospital. You know the underground tunnel that the nurses use to get down to the laundry building? Use that and it will take you onto Main Street that is attached to Corunna Bay. You will walk past the wool sheds and then go down Hyderabad road and then turn left down Pandora road.”

Liz often walked through the underground tunnel and stood outside the laundry building staring down the road. She could see the wood sheds and the beginning of the water but to move forward seemed to mean admitting the unimaginable. She would have to go on her own because Max was not coming back.

Gradually the three of them started to adjust to a life in New Zealand. The year slowly but surely faded into 1920 and with their worry increasing daily they attempted to go on with their lives. Philip helped Nancy search for a house not far away from theirs and finally two weeks later she had a two bedroom lavender villa near the girls’ institution that was also on the hill.

Diane and Philip treated them all like family and were nothing less then perfect to them. Liz slept in Max’s old room.

Liz and Maria worked, Liz less because of her condition. Time passed.

She was frantic with worry; she could hardly be civil with anyone. If he was alive wouldn’t he be there by now? He hadn’t gone to America had he? These questions drove her insane.

Maria, though she had her doubts, looked after Liz the only way she knew how. Constantly singing as they walked home from the hospital and dancing in the middle of the road.

“Get your coat and your hat, leave your worries on the door step.” She sang cheerful songs. “Just bring your feet to the sunny side of the street. Can’t you hear the pitty pat? Life can be so sweet on the sunny side of the street.” Sometimes she succeeded in getting a smile out of Liz. “I used to walk in the shade with my blues on parade…”

Then again, sometimes it made her more aggravated.

“Enough already!”

Maria never stopped trying.

On a rainy Thursday afternoon as they sat in the canteen at the hospital looking down at the grey courtyard she was trying to get Liz to pick a name for the baby.

“What about Patricia if it’s a girl?”

Liz shook her head. “No, I think it will be a boy.”

“Francais? Thomas?” Maria offered.

“No and no,” Liz said.

Maria groaned.

“I’m sorry,” Liz said. “Thank you for trying. We will come up with something.”

“I hope so.” She got up and fixed her cap in place. “I have to get back. Will you be okay?”

“Yeah, I’ll be fine.”

Maria patted her arm. “Bye.”

Liz continued to stare at the rain for a few minutes and then went back to work.

~*~

On the day when she finally found out where Max was she had been imagining going to his house. She spent her late lunch time sitting on a bench near the cannery cages in the Botanical gardens.

With her hand on her belly she watched the scrawny stream scramble down the rocks and bubble into a little pond at the bottom. There was a dove house hidden in the trees above and feathers decorated the water and grass around her feet.

It was her favourite place in Napier.

The cemetery was up a small path to her right. It had a lot of children in it, Liz noted. She did not like to go there.

Apparently, as Diane had told her, a week before Christmas the citizens in town gathered there to sing carols by candle light. They would set out blankets and have picnics in between the grass moulds until it got dark and then when the sun slipped down past the water the candles would be lit and they glittered brilliantly. Diane explained it as absolutely stunning and said she never missed it. Liz could not wait until Christmas so she could see it, too.

It was January twelfth, gloriously summer and her white cotton uniform felt hot against her pregnant body. She reached down into the stream and dampened her hands then patted her cheeks and forehead.

She had been away quite a while but when she finally started heading back she did not hurry up the path. She ambled slowly, admiring her surroundings, as she always did.

Today she was walking in the canteen, after being advised to by everyone, so she could take it easy and be more relaxed. Liz hated being treated as if she were fragile, she missed being a great nurse and looking after everyone. When she told Maria this, Maria had simply replied that ‘serving food is the best way to help. There is nothing worse then being hungry’.

“No,” Liz had said. “That is much worse then dying of a chest wound.”

Around seven in the evening after serving a few nurses and doctors on their breaks, Liz stood wiping down the tables when Maria burst in the doors.

“Is it up?” Liz asked instantly.

“Yes, it’s up,” Maria answered and grabbed her hand.

They ran down the hall together and got told not by a doctor and an orderly but they ignored them. Finally at the notice board they stopped and scanned the paper entitled ‘Deaths: Jan 5th—Jan 12th 1920’.

Liz stepped away and covered her face with her hands.

Maria sighed. She wasn’t happy about Max not being on there, but to go on not knowing, guessing, and praying was just crazy. It would be better to know. Better for Liz to go on with her life.

“Come on Liz, I’ll get you some dinner. After a day of serving everyone else, surely you would enjoy to have it the other way.” Maria put her arm around her friend’s shoulders and they slowly walked back down the lino hallway.

“Where is he Maria?” Liz asked almost inaudibly.

~*~

The sun was nearly vanished for the day and while Liz sat sipping her sweet juice she wished she could vanish with it. For what kind of a heaven could this ever be without Max?

She closed her eyes and imagined his hands, his brilliant white teeth that shone so bright they scorched her irises. She imagined his stubbly cheeks and his soft raven hair. Her hands wove through it…

His mouth, as she remembered it, moist, welcoming, supple waiting for hers. Searching for hers.

Without realizing it she moaned out loud and an old woman asked if she was alright.

“Yes, fine,” Liz replied. She looked down into her cup and wanted a refill it but the jug was so far away.

“Liz, when I touch you like this? Do you like it?” he asked peering up at her on the bed. She smiled and nodded shyly. “There is no place that I could be without you. When I think of you, and of the life we both want, I feel love. You mean the best that life can bring.”

“LIZ!”

Her head shot up as Maria barged through the door. “What?” she asked.

“I found him,” she cried. “He’s here!”

“What?” she asked and leapt up from her chair. “Where?”

Maria grabbed her arm and pulled her down stairs and out across the court yard to the wards. Three floors later they were outside of his room.

“He’s in here?” Liz asked. “Oh my God, Maria. Is he hurt?”

Maria nodded. “He’s going to live. I was doing my rounds and I…”

She didn’t get a chance to finish; Liz barged inside and ran towards the bed. “Max?’ she demanded.

He was there. Lying on his back with his eyes closed and plush pink cheeks.

“He arrived here earlier,” Maria explained.

Liz pressed her face to his neck and sobbed loudly. She couldn’t stop touching him; her hands were on his chest, his arms, and his face. Stroking, caressing…

“Max, Max,” she kept repeating. “Wake up love, I’m here.”

“Liz, he’s going to be alright,” Maria said.

I can’t believe it, she thought. After so long, he’s here.

Sorry it's been a while both myself and my computer have been suffering somewhat these last few weeks. Thank *you* so much for your patience and kind words.


Fifteen


After so long, he’s here

...the words of yesterday, such seeds of hope then yet still Max hadn’t woken up, hadn’t even opened one eye and Liz hadn’t left that room, left his side for a moment in that period. She’d waited so long to be reunited with him, she wasn’t about to have him wake up and not be there for him. Liz Parker wanted her loving face to be the very first thing Max Evans clapped eyes upon when he woke up. Many people wanted to be there for that moment, Liz was desperate for it. She had so much to tell him, so much to say. God help her but she just wanted it to be them alone together in that room because when it came to Max she was jealous of anyone that got his attention. She wanted to keep him all to herself, and never let go and hand upon heart she couldn’t just put it down to hormones making her feel this way.

But being five months pregnant was very difficult on a woman and her body and Liz had held off as long as she could, from leaving that room and go to the bathroom until it was a case of having too.

She’d said to herself that she wouldn’t run, for the sake of the baby but wild horses couldn’t keep her from his side. She’d never moved so fast and as she opened the door on her return, she hoped she had made the right decision by going. That nothing bad had happened while she was away, wishing that he was still ‘sleeping’ so she could retake her place at his side for when he woke up and she would be the first thing he’d see.

She was so tired and needed her rest, everyone pleaded with her to get some rest. What would Max think if he was awake and she wasn’t there? How could she take everyone’s advice and leave? She couldn’t bear to be with out him for a second when they’d been too long a apart all ready.

Liz took another deep breath as she opened the door further.

The heady scent of Max, wafted around her, enveloping her like a warm comforter. Almost knocking her off her feet. It was only delicate and miss able to anyone else but plain as day to Liz. She could sense everything about him. Was this what having a soul mate was like? Being able to feel ‘everything’ about them? To almost reach out and touch them? Two hearts beating as one.

Breathing heavy she stepped further into the room, smoothing her skirt and blouse as she went, her hand resting a little longer on her swollen belly, her fingers graced across it. It was early days but she was all ready blooming and she couldn’t wait to tell him. She could feel that he would be happy at the news as she felt the baby fluttering inside of her.

She stood still for a moment, collecting her courage.

The room was white. All but bear for the vase of fresh flowers that Diane had left by his bedside. Then she saw him. Her heart skipped a beat, her knees becoming weak. She’d never tire of the sight of him, especially while he lay sleeping. Sleeping cherubs wouldn’t be sweeter than Max. She looked upon him again, just contented to see the steady rise and fall of his chest. He was alive.

She looked at where Max lay, gently stepping closer to him until she was close enough to place one hand upon his. Still standing she gently lifted it so his palm now graced where their child was sleeping. She knew it was odd, but she seemed to be able to draw strength from having him touch her there. What lay there was the sole reason for being, both Max's and her own. Their unborn child and there was no way Max would be going anywhere if he knew that he was going to be a daddy.

She closed her eyes and took another deep breath. “Max,” she whispered, “I don’t know if you can hear me but I can’t do this with out you,” she could feel her tears welling as her fingers twined into his. “I need you Max, so much. I’m not going to let you down and I’m not going anywhere,” her tears were falling thick and fast, her grip on his hand tightening. “ please Max you have to wake up. We need you to.” her legs threatened to fall from under her “I can do nothing more but tell you that we love you so very much and that you are my entire world. I can’t lose you Max,” Liz opened her eyes, straightened her shoulders, and sat on the bed. “We can’t lose you. Please wake up, please come back to me,” and she closed her eyes wondering if he could even hear her plea from wherever it was he was? Her resolve was failing her terribly. “Now you listen to me, wake up you hear me Max? It’s time to get on with your life.” She scolded desperately. She felt her eyes welling with tears again and forced herself to dam them up. Crying would do no good; she’d done enough of that over the past few months to know.

The last few days had been a whirlwind of activity for her and it was beginning to take it’s toll upon her.

Still not knowing what to expect? Of what was to come? Of what was happening to Max? Her life had come to a screeching halt because Max was here, but at the same time he’d never been further away.

She didn’t hear the door open behind her.

“Elizabeth?” She didn’t hear him.

He could have been speaking to the wall for the response he received. Liz had fallen into a trance. He wanted to call out to her again but was too taken by what he saw before him. His son was a very lucky man, he only had to look at the way Liz was looking at him to see that. “Liz?” he finally whispered.

Liz snapped her head up in his direction. Her face as white as a sheet. Philip Evans looked at her over the rim of his glasses. She looked so worried, so fragile. Fear consumed him, god was his son dead? “What's happened?” he added frantically. “Elizabeth? Liz? “Are you all right?” Philip's words finally breaking through, and Liz looked at the older man, who was staring at her from beside Max‘s bed and immediately her face softened when she realized what he was implying.

“Max is okay Mr. Evans, please don’t worry,” she smiled.

Phillip felt like crying, no matter how impossible it must be for her, she was still taking care of others.

“There’s no doubt that Max is coming back to us but what concerns me more is you child?” Liz frowned. She wasn’t ready to leave. “You need your rest,”

Liz shock her head.

“Please, please try and get some peace, Max would never forgive himself if he was the cause of something ever happening to you or to his child. Please Liz, I’ll contact you the moment anything happens,” he added gently. Liz knew he was right as her legs wobbled.

“You promise?” her eyes tugging at his heart strings. Phillip now stood beside her.

“I’ll run there myself if I have to,” and he hugged her slightly to him.

“I’ll see if there’s a room here I can borrow,” Liz smiled as she slowly bent down to lay a gently kiss upon Max’s lips.

“Be back soon sweetheart,” she murmured as she slowly turned towards the door, drowsiness all ready consuming her.

*~*

Daniel knocked on the door and nervously shuffled his feet. He hadn’t seen Liz all day and was worried about her. He knew she had been keeping a Virgil at Max’s bedside and she needed the sleep. He couldn’t help but check to see if she was okay. The baby was all ready draining her of all her energy. She said she was fine when he’d asked her before but his daily interactions with her didn’t tell him what he really wanted to know: how she was *really* doing? The door opened a crack and then flew open wide.

“Daniel, how wonderful to see you,” and Nancy held out her arms in a welcome embrace.

“How are you today Nancy?” he replied warmly.

“All the better for seeing you. Liz is in the yard.” and she began to lead Daniel to her, but he laid a hand on her arm, slowing her. She turned to him, seeing a question in his eyes.

“How is she?” Daniel asked.

Nancy smiled sadly and patted his hand. “She’ll be doing much better when Max wakes up. Seeing that you’re here will help. Everything's been so muddled for her….” Daniel could see that she was struggling to talk as he gently encased his big hand over hers.

“Try not to worry Nancy, everything’s going to be all right,” his smile was warm and reassuring. He stood firm and meant every word of what he’d said. Things may look bleak but he had faith. Liz and her family had been through so much all ready and it would be a cruel and heartless world to have Max taken from her too.

“She’s so lucky to have such a good friend as you and you’ll always be a part of this family, please remember that Daniel. We wouldn’t be as strong and together as we are now if it wasn’t for you and…when Max wakes up he’ll see that too and be as forever grateful to you as we all are,”

“Thank you for saying that, it means so much coming from you,” he could see a tear forming in her eye.

“Come on. I’ll show you the way.” Nancy encouraged. Daniel nodded and followed Nancy through the wards and out towards the back. “She’s rested some but she still needs more. Please try and make her see.” Nancy pleaded. Daniel could only nod in agreement but Liz was a strong headed woman. He had is work cut out for him.

"I'll do my best," he answered.

Liz sat on a bench, holding herself in a tight embrace and staring at the sky. She seemed unaware of anyone or anything else. Nancy motioned toward the garden, and slowly walked away, leaving him alone with her daughter.

Daniel took a step forward, then stopped. It was obvious that Liz had been crying. Her eyes were puffy and bloodshot; her cheeks tear-stained. It tore at his heart to see her like this. He held himself partially responsible for her heartache. Before he’d always been able to make her smile and take away all her pain and sorrow. Not his time and he felt like he was letting her down terribly. Only Max could take away her pain, if not for the fever that was draining away his life force.

Now, when he looked in the eyes of his dearest friend, all he could see were the shattered dreams of the woman she’d be come.

“Liz?” He cleared his throat and took a step forward.

Slowly, Liz seemed to regain her focus as she lowered her head and looked in his direction. She was only half listening, entranced by her thoughts of Max. Suddenly, the familiar voice called her name again, snapping her back to reality. A smile spread across her face when she recognized her visitor.

“Hello Daniel,” she whispered, “It’s very nice to see you. Please, sit down.” She patted the space on the bench to her left and Daniel accepted. Quietly, he sat, trying to find the right words to say, when Liz began again. “There is no need to fear words with me Daniel when you have a gift for telling me the truth,” She let out a small laugh and looked around the hospital gardens, remembering how it was between them.

“Only sometimes Liz,” he replied gently, remembering how he’d not told her how he felt about her at the right time. “and now, me being truthful would not be the right thing to do,”

“Don’t be so hard on yourself Daniel, your truth is just what I need to hear right now,”

Daniel had been watching her as she spoke, and now took out a handkerchief as fresh tears began to roll down her cheeks. She took the cloth and wiped her eyes.

“I’m sorry,” she apologized. “I’ve been trying to get that under control, but sometimes, it’s hard.”

“It will get easier, besides it's the most natural thing to do,” Daniel lamely offered.

“Will it get easier? When?” Liz looked up and met her oldest friend’s eyes truly for the first time. “Oh, never mind. I know that is the one question that you can’t answer. No one can.” She looked down, again, and sighed, shaking the thought from her mind.

When she lifted her eyes once more, a painted smile rested uneasily upon her face. “Look at me, I’ve forgotten my manners, rambling on like this. Would you like me to go and get you something to drink?” She started to rise, but returned to her seat when Daniel shook his head.

“No, I’m fine I’m more concerned about you. I wanted to see for myself how you’re holding up.”

“Fine but I’m hindered by the Doctors not being forth coming with what’s wrong with Max? It’s so frustrating,” He watched as her smile faded, once again.

He paused, considering her words. “I know it is, but Max has come all this way and seen so much, he’s not about to be going anywhere with out you now is he?”

“Daniel,…” she sighed and closed her eyes. “I don’t...I don’t know if I can do it alone. I can’t be without him Daniel - I just can’t and I don’t think I can come back if anything happened to him.” When she finished speaking, she gazed up at her oldest friend, her brown eyes full of pain and sadness.

Daniel heard the words, but didn’t want to believe them. “Nothings going to happen to him, besides what of junior?” His eyes slipped down the her tummy. “You must take care of yourself,”

“No. I’m not going I can’t leave him,” She spoke in a rush, the words pouring out. She knew that if she didn’t say them, right then, she’d never say them at all.

Daniel looked down at the ground. “Yes you can, Max wouldn’t want you to run yourself down like this,”

“I know...,” she choked and continued, “But what if he wakes up and I’m not here?”

“Then I'll stay and come and get you the moment he does,” Liz couldn’t help but smile when Phillip had said the same thing to her earlier. "Please get some rest, for me," and Liz could see the pleading within them.

“You’re my angel Daniel but I wouldn’t be able to sleep, let alone function if I wasn’t at least under the same roof as him,”

“I understand.” Daniel stood to leave and offered Liz his hand. Liz took his hand, nodded, and stood. She got up lightly pulling him in an embrace.

“Please try not to worry about me, I will try and get some rest here. Promise,” and she lay a light kiss upon his cheek. “You know you’ll make someone a good wife one day,” she said jovially.

“So will you, Max is the luckiest man alive,” Daniel cast his eyes downward, hating this part with more passion than he thought possible. “I’d venture to say that you won’t have to worry about things for quite some time. Not that that makes things any easier to handle, but, well...nothing is going to happen to Max but if it does….if anything were ever to happen then I’ll always be here for you Liz,” His voice had quieted to almost a whisper and a knot was forming in his throat.

“Thank you, Daniel,” Liz’s eyes were beginning to well up, again. “But nothing is going to happen to Max,” He had made a promise to Liz then, that he would watch out for her and her family. It was one that he had hoped he would never have to keep as he pulled her into a tight hug, resting a lingering kiss upon her forehead.

"I love you Liz parker,"

"And I love you," she agreed warmly.

And that was the moment that a certain Michael Guerin walked through the door.

AHHH it's a new part! Shock horror I know! This is the last part for me, Lana's writing the conclusion next. It was fantastic writing this, especially with you Lana! I hope everyone enjoyed it. Thank you thank you thank you!

SIXTEEN

Liz sprung up from her seat. “Michael?!” she cried, “Michael Guerin, is that you?”

He smiled. “Nurse Parker, I never knew you were in New Zealand!” They shared a friendly hug.

“Yeah,” Liz blushed, “how are you? I thought you would have gone back to England?”

“I had at first but I think Max persuaded us all to change homes with his talk of beautiful New Zealand,” he said, “so…how’s Maria?”

“You can ask her yourself,” Liz grinned, “she’s right down the hall.”

Michael’s eyebrows rose, “Really?”

“Yes.” Liz smiled. “Daniel, this is Michael—one of Max’s friends, he’s from London,” she introduced the two men and they shook hands. “Michael this is one of my best friends from America, we’ve known each other since…well…forever.”

Michael eyed Daniel up and down, “Yeah it sure sounded like it when I walked in.” He walked over the bed and stared down at Max. “I’m sure Max wouldn’t appreciate waking up after weeks only to see his horse and cart wrapped up in another mans arms.”

“You are joking,” Liz laughed, “Daniel and I are just friends! Tell me how you are, where are you staying? When did you get here?”

“I got here a couple of days ago, I only found out Max was in the hospital an hour ago from someone in town. I was asking around, I didn’t have Max’s actual address. I’m staying at the little bed and breakfast near the lagoon.” He paused—his eyes roaming over Liz’s body, “if you don’t mind me asking, is the child…?”

Liz’s face lit up, “Yes, it is Max’s.”

“He doesn’t know?”

“No he doesn’t,” Liz shook her head.

Michael swallowed. “Well congratulations. He’ll be happy. The way he raved about you.”

“Liz, I’m going to get going,” Daniel said.

“No Daniel you don’t—”

“Yes, I think I do. I’ll see you later. It was nice meeting you Michael.” He pressed his mouth to her cheek and left the room quickly.

“That was cosy,” Michael muttered.

Liz frowned, “Pardon me?”

“Nothing, I’m just sticking up for my friend. That Daniel guy was all over you and right in front of Max. He’s not dead and I don’t think that it was very good of him to try something—”

“Michael!” Maria stood in the doorway. “Oh my goodness!”

“Maria?” he exclaimed.

She grinned and ran up to him. They embraced for a long time. Liz was embarrassed by what Michael had said and went and sat next to Max. She took his hand in hers and stared at his face intently, as if it would make him open his eyes.

“Oh I need you,” she whispered, “you know that.” Just to make sure, she added, “I don’t see Daniel that way, you know.”

“Now, what on earth were you talking about when I walked in here?” Maria asked, “Liz and Daniel? Liz isn’t like that, you should know that.”

“I wasn’t blaming her,” Michael replied.

The two of them went out into the hall and closed the door. Liz wanted to climb onto the bed and wrap her arms around Max but she couldn’t. She placed his hand on her stomach and spoke into his ear, “I don’t know if you can feel or hear me, but that’s the beginning of our child you are touching.”

He didn’t acknowledge her intimate gesture, just as expected. She sighed and closed her eyes. “Come on Max,” she said. “I need you to wake up. You are missing out on so much.”

~*~

Liz reluctantly left Max’s side to introduce Michael to Max’s parents and have dinner. They all sat around the table uncomfortably, not having much to talk about.

“Michael,” Philip finally said. “Tell us about London.”

“There really isn’t much to say,” Michael replied. “In my opinion it isn’t the best place. A lot of people love it though. It has a lot of history. The weather is quite dark right now and it’s snowing insistently.”

“Yes,” Liz said. “It would be snowing in America right now. It’s quite extraordinary having such hot weather in Napier.”

“I’ve never seen snow,” Diane commented. “I’ve lived in Napier my whole life.”

“Wow!” Liz said. “Never you say?”

Diane nodded.

Michael offered to walk Liz back to the hospital after dinner. Liz suspected it was only because he’d get to see Maria.

“I hope Max wakes up before you have the little thing,” he said. “Apparently the pregnancy is quite a horrible thing to miss.”

Liz nodded. “I hope he wakes up soon too.”

“Do you think you’ll get married?”

“Yes. I know we will.”

He smiled. “One night we were sitting outside on the balcony at the hospital in Italy and he just all of a sudden turned to me and said, ‘Michael when I marry Nurse Parker you can be my best man.’ You can imagine my reaction. I laughed so hard and said, ‘What makes you think she’ll say yes?’ He looked me straight in the face and told me that he could tell you loved him as much as he loved you. You know how?” he lowered his voice and brought his face close to hers. “Your eyes. He said, that when you were telling him no, he could always see the struggle in your eyes.”

Liz smiled tearfully.

“Of course,” Michael added, “Kyle was there and was absolutely spewing.”

She laughed. “Oh Kyle.”

Outside the hospital she said, “You going to come in?”

“Is Maria working tonight?”

“Yeah.”

“Then, yes. I’m going to come in.”

She helped him find her and then went straight to Max’s room. A nurse was in there checking him and updating his chart. “How is he?” she asked.

“No difference,” she replied. “Sorry.”

Liz sighed. “He’ll wake up one day soon I bet.”

The nurse looked at her sympathetically.

“He wouldn’t leave me,” Liz said. “I know that.”

During the night she woke up to her fingers being squeezed. She opened her eyes and frantically reached forward to touch Max’s face. He was panting and sweating but he wasn’t awake. “Max,” she said urgently. “Wake up, come on. It’s alright.” His face moved to the side. “I’m here. Come on.”

His eyes were darting back and forth underneath his lids. “Max,” Liz cried. “Come on sweetheart.”

“Nurse!” she yelled. “Somebody!”

A few minutes later the door opened and the light turned on. “What’s wrong? What’s happening?”

“We need a wet towel,” Liz said frantically. “I think he’s going to wake up.”

“I’ll be right back.”

Max breathed loudly and held Liz’s hand tighter. “Max,” she begged. “Wake up. Wake up love.”

The nurse appeared at the door with a metal bowel of warm water and a towel and Liz got up quickly to take it. Just as she was grabbing it she heard a voice behind her.

“Liz?”

She dropped the metal bowel with a clang and ran to the bed. “Max?” she pressed her fingers to his head. “Max, oh my God…are you alright?”

He stared at her for a moment. “Liz? Where am I?” he tried to sit up but she pushed him down.

“You are in the hospital; don’t try to move just yet.” She started to cry. “Max…”

He was confused. She threw her arms around him and cried on his chest. “How do you feel?” she asked. “Are you okay? What happened?” She frantically ran her hands over him, even though she knew there wasn’t any new physical damage.

He sucked in a deep breath. “I-I—”

“Take it easy on him love,” the nurse had a new bowel of water. “He’s just woken up.”

Max studied Liz’s face. “I’m—home?”

“Yes,” Liz smiled tearfully. “In New Zealand.”

He swallowed. He was trying to process everything. His mind was still groggy. “How did you—?”

“Get here?” she asked. “I came for you. I came with Maria and my mother.” She stroked his cheeks, willing him to understand, to remember. “I have a surprise for you.”

He looked around the room and then back at her. “Why am I in hospital?”

“Oh, you poor thing,” Liz said. “You don’t remember?”

He shook his head. “How did I get here from Italy?”

“You were brought on a ship,” she answered. “How do you feel? How is your head?”

“It’s…sore,” he said. They were silent for a moment and then he smiled. “You came to New Zealand for me?”

“Of course,” she told him. “How could I not find my child’s father?”

“Child?” Max asked.

She chuckled and reached down to take his hand. His eyes were blank when she put it on her bulging stomach gently. “I thought you would have felt it by now.”

She stared up at his expression. “I know it’s a big thing,” she said. “But I’ll be okay. We’ll…be okay. If you want apart of us too…”

He cupped her cheeks and stared down at her as if seeing her for the first time once again. “You are so beautiful.”

“Thank you,” she replied. “So are you.”

His mouth covered hers in a soft but heated kiss. She closed her eyes and arched into his touch.

When he pulled away she smiled warmly at him. “I love you,” she said.

“I remember loving you,” he whispered. “I think I could love you again very easily…just…kiss me once more…”

She rolled her eyes and then kissed him passionately on the mouth.

“Yes…I definitely remember loving you,” he said against her lips. “Liz…Nurse Parker….”

She nodded.

“I love you too Liz,” he whispered. “I always did…”

She covered his hands on her cheeks with her own. “And the baby?”

“I can’t believe it,” he said. “It’s too much. I never would have thought it was possible.”

“I know.”

“Thank you so much.”


~*~

Liz had to leave the room when his parents got there. She stood with her back against the white linoleum walls in her comfortable shoes and her arms wrapped around herself. A few minutes later a flustered Michael and Maria came running down the hallway, Maria was frantically trying to button her uniform and Michael’s undershirts were showing under his open vest.

Liz smiled.

They came to an abrupt halt in front of her. Liz looked at Maria and couldn’t hold it in any longer, she started to sob. “Oh Liz,” Maria said and wrapped her arms around her. “Oh sweetie, thank God. Thank God.”

Michael peaked through the glass in the door and then stepped back. “How long have his parents been in there?”

“Ten minutes or so,” Liz mumbled tearfully. “They have a lot to catch up on.”

They were in there for another half an hour. Liz sat down on the floor with her legs drawn up to her chest. Maria sat with her, and then Michael when she had to go back to work.

Finally the door opened and Diane and Philip walked in. “Are you alright dear?” Diane asked.

“I am good,” Liz answered. “Are you?”

“I will be,” she answered. “He asked for you.”

Liz stumbled to her feet. “Are you going back to the house?”

“Yes,” Philip answered. “We’ll come back in the morning.”

“Good night Liz, Michael.”

Before entering the room, Liz took a deep breath and stepped in. Michael came with her.

He was sitting up with a blanket over his lap. “How are you feeling?” she asked instantly.

He smiled. “Great.” His eyes found Michaels. “Private Michael!”

“Ah so you don’t have amnesia then, that’s good!” Michael hugged his friend. “And it’s not private anymore. I got promoted to Sergeant before the end of the war.”

“Congratulations.”

“Thank you.”

After he left Liz didn’t know what to do. She stood quite far away from Max, unsure as to how he felt about the news she’d thrown at him.

“Come here,” he patted the bed beside him.

She came, as if she couldn’t! “Max, I—”

“You know,” he said. “My parents demand that I marry you.”

Liz blushed.

“They tell me that you’ll get sent off to an unmarried mother’s labour home run by horrible nuns if I do not.” He reached out and took her hands in his. “I know you are wondering how much I remember of our time together in Italy and if it still means what it did then.”

Tearfully, she nodded.

He looked up from his lap. “It does,” he said. “It means so much that you came here for me.” Silently they looked at one another. “And,” he continued. “If you’d let me, I would incredibly honoured if you did marry me, Not only because you are going to have my child, but because I still love you and I hope that you can love me for the rest of our lives.”

“I could,” she sobbed. “Forever and ever.”

“Oh Liz,” he said and threw his arms around her. “God I’ve missed you.”

~*~

She had to stand on her tipee-toes to reach his neck. Her fingers straightened his tie, working efficiently and carefully.

“Liz,” he said. “It doesn’t have to be immaculate.”

Liz smiled and pulled her hands away. “Yes it does. This is very important.”

“If it’s so important,” said Max. “Then it won’t be very good if we’re late, will it?”

They rounded the car and walked towards the large crowd that had gathered on the Marine Parade. Max reached down and took her hand in his so she would not get lost. The mayor stood on the stage with a large group of men from the government and was ready to unveil the new statue.

Max had to go up the steps, leaving Liz at the bottom and stood with a bunch of men he once knew from before the war. There were not many.

Liz watched his face; the pain that woke him up every night and sent him into chilly silences during the day was etched on his face. He was doing well, getting over the ordeal that was World War I. Liz knew of many men, most of the soldiers who were left, that were insane, that could just not part their lips to talk about it…or anything it seemed. She knew she could do nothing for Max but be there when he needed her.

The major gave a speech and afterwards a silence for all the lives lost. There was sobbing in the crowd, Liz closed her eyes tightly and wrapped her arms around herself. When she opened them, the major pulled the red cape from the statue of a man dressed in war attire on top of a concrete block. There were silver plates with thousands of names and ranks of men from Napier. There was a place for the men that were still alive and a place for those who were not. Everyone gathered around. Because Max was such a high rank his name was on the top of those who were alive.

She walked towards him and wrapped her arms around him. “Are you alright?” she asked.

He swallowed. “I will be eventually,” he answered. “But they won’t.”

“You’re so strong,” she whispered amazed at his calmness. “You are always so strong.”

“I have you,” he said. “To help me.”

“Yes,” she replied. “You’ll always have me.”

Hello I *know* it's been a very long time coming but I wanted to post something to wrap up the story as promised. It's nothing special, just my ramblings. I hope you like it? I'd also like thank everyone who read and supported this story from the beginning it means so much to me that you did .... and that Nicola chose *me* to write it with her That fact and you guys mean the absolute world to me. Take care all. Love and hugs xxx


Conclusion


When Maria woke that morning the whole house was abuzz with wedding excitement. The morning was a complete blur and before she even had time to breathe she had gone into town early to meet the rest of the bridal party for breakfast and to have their hair done for the wedding. There was so much to do.

Everyone was to meet at the Evan‘s, where the ceremony was to be held. They had *all* been so very kind to Maria while she stayed and helped in Max‘s recovery ... but she’d never have thought in her wildest dreams she would have stayed there. Truth me known, over time she had grown to love it in New Zealand, with the Evans and she couldn’t see herself leaving. And with things being as they were it would have been impossible to arrange the wedding back home. Besides somewhere along the line almost everyone she knew and loved had made it over to New Zealand one way or another and travelling back to America would not have been wise for many.

The Evans’ estate was a gorgeous, hilly place with its grounds almost entirely canopied by ancient trees. There were flower gardens everywhere; their vibrant colours in full bloom wherever you looked. And in the middle of all of this there was a large rose-adorned trellis set up under which the couple would say their vows, with rows and rows of white chairs for the guests to sit lined up behind it. Everything was perfect.

A light breeze blew through the open window. She was examining her reflection in the mirror and listening to the sounds of the guests mingling in the backyard. She smiled and looked back at herself, not believing she was the person she saw staring back. Her hair had been pinned up beautifully, stray strands placed in specific places. Maria had to pinch herself to make sure it really was her hair. That it really was her. She looked like every bit like Isabel would, something Maria never thought she’d achieve.

Maria studied the dress in the mirror. It was an unusual style, just the way she liked it. The dress came a little off the shoulder, the neckline going straight across, but the back line plunged a little more to expose some her back. The fitted sleeves came just to the elbow. It was fitted almost down to her hips where it flared out, ending on a trail on the floor. It was of an Ivory colour, with matching gloves. It was very flattering, emphasizing her tiny waist and flaring just at the right spot. Everything felt like a fairytale to her.

“Now they’ll be no crying today missy,” she whispered gently to her reflection as she fastened her blue gemmed earrings, a gift from her mother that both covered the something-new and something-blue categories of a brides wedding day. Her eye caught sight of the delicate bracelet on her left wrist. A gift from Liz. It had been her grandmother’s. She thought it was for the something-borrowed part - it was something old. Liz had given her something that was so very dear to her. Maria was fighting back the tears.

She heard someone rushing down the hall, her heart raced .... Then there was a gentle knock at the door. It startled Maria, and she looked up from her reflection, quickly and gently wiping away any signs of her tears. "Yes?" She answered and the door opened.

Michael stepped inside and quickly shut the door behind him. "If your mother catches me in here, I'm done for..." he whispered. He paused for a moment and stared at her.

Maria noticed his sudden change while looking at her. Self-consciously she turned and looked at herself in the mirror, while she bit nervously at her bottom lip. "Is something wrong?" She asked while smoothing out the pleats in her gown.

Michael had lost the will to speak. Maria looked simply stunning. Michael couldn't take his eyes off her. Her hair was piled high on her head with a profusion of curls and little flowers on top and tendrils hanging down. She was so beautiful to him anyway but this .... He couldn’t breathe.

She glanced over at him nervously again and then quickly away. The sight of him moved her to trembling. Was something wrong? Didn‘t he like what he saw? “Michael... you.... know you shouldn’t be in here, it’s bad luck,“ she was trying to put a little humour into the silence. “Is everything all right?” She asked nervously.

Michael caught his breath, reaching out for her suddenly. He was still staring open mouthed at her. He'd never seen Maria look lovelier. He watched as she turned around slowly, studying herself critically in the mirror again. Never before had he experienced such desire to kiss a woman, and never before had he experienced such paralysis when presented an opportunity to fulfil that desire. The time would come later that day and Michael couldn’t contain himself.

“You ... you look absolutely breathtaking," Michael finally assured her, and she could see him still staring at her reflection in the mirror and she knew he meant it.

She watched him as she breathed a sigh of relief. Everything was okay. She held out her hand and he’d crossed the room before she knew, picking her high up into arms.

“Hey you’ll cease me,“ she giggled, lightly tapping his shoulder. He held her tight, nearly crushing the breath out of her. But she didn‘t care, she‘d missed him so much too and it had only been a day. Her arms held him tighter. “Michael,” she gasped, “What’s wrong? What are you doing here?”

“I just missed you,” he breathed into her hair, still holding her tightly. “I had to see you that‘s all,”

“Oh my silly, impatient man, you’ll see me in a moment,” she giggled, wiggling a little to get him to loosen his hold. “And tomorrow, and the day after that, and the day after that and then all the days after those,”

“I ... I ... couldn’t wait that long,” he confessed, releasing her. “I can’t bear being a part from you for even .... a second,“ The depth of his words touched her, and she found herself speechless. “I love you so much... so very much ... ,“ and he did, more than he never thought possible. Ever since that moment they first kissed, when Max and Liz got married Michael knew she was the one for him. That seemed a lifetime past.

He’d been best man at Maxwell‘s wedding to Liz - his second being one Alexander Whitman. It’s so funny how life turns out. Not long after Max came out of hospital Alex had come a knocking on his door. The writer had never forgotten about the friends he’d made while in the hospital ward that ultimately saved his life. And he loved to travel even when he’d never got the chance before, the idea of it had always appealed to Alex - but life was for living and he’d remembered how Maxwell had told him stories of his home in New Zealand. Besides Alex’s sight was improving day by day, it would never be the same as it was before he was wounded but the doctor’s were very pleased with his progress. And there was always hope. It was true Alex was a fighter but he had another ally in his battle to recovery. Isabel, the head nurse and everyone could have been knocked down with a feather when she appeared at the doorstep, her arm linked loving in Alex’s. Funny how life turns out, even after the cruelty and horrors of war.

So Max made a full recovery, added by the loving care of his Liz, while Alex and Isabel decided to stay a little longer than planned and during that time Michael and Maria found each other, despite all their differences.

He released her, running a hand through his hair, making Maria smile. She loved it when he was bumbling over with words. Maria felt herself blush and turned to face her fiancé. “Well, thank you, You look mighty handsome, yourself," she replied gently, straightening his tie a little. She was always fiddling and fussing over him. Michael looked into her eyes and she blushed.

"What?" Michael asked. "What did I say?"

"It's not what you said. It's how you're looking at me," Maria smiled shyly at him.

"Well, get used to it. I'm going to be looking at you like this for the rest of your life," he smiled and leaned over for a kiss. Just as their lips were a mere centimetre apart ... there was a loud banging at the door!

“Maria! Maria, have you seen Michael?“ It was her mother. Both of them had the look of panic in their eyes, knowing full well Amy Deluca was not a woman to mess with.

“Err .. no mother...,” she hollered as Michael quickly dashed off and around the corner of the open wardrobe, a split second before the door flew open and her mother’s face greeted Maria.

“Oh ... where is that boy? I swear no matter how much I love him and he makes me smile - he’ll be the death of me, where can he be?“ and she stepped further into the room. Maria heart was in her throat at how close she was to finding out *exactly* where Michael was. Michael listened, over whelmed by Amy’s admission - she’d never said she’d loved him before or that he made her smile. He was over whelmed.

“Oh ... he’s around somewhere, please don’t worry okay,” Maria was finding it hard to conceal her blushing and then a wonderful smile graced Amy’s face.

“You look so beautiful Maria,” and she embraced her tightly.

“Thank you, so do you,” and she hugged her tighter, knowing full well that her mother was crying. Maria gently pulled herself away.

“My little baby girls all grown up,” Amy admitted.

“Oh mom, you promised,” Maria knew it was futile to even try and get her mother to promise not to cry.

“I know, I know - I’m just so proud of you,” Amy wiped a tear away from her face. “So do you need me to stay and help you with anything?”

“No!” Maria instantly realized the harsh in her voice. “No ... that’s okay,” and she followed it up with a smile.

“All right, shall I get Liz?”

“I’ll be fine, really, I just would like a few moments alone if that’s okay?”

“Of course my child,” and she gently kissed her daughter’s cheek before turning to leave. “ Oh I almost for got ...,“ and she reached into her bag, pulling out a neatly detailed pink handkerchief. Maria ruffled up her nose, “Great aunt Bess asked me to give you this,” both women smiled. Amy rolled her eyes, “It is clean,” Amy could always read her daughter’s thoughts, “It was a gift from Great uncle Harry and she’d like it back - unused if possible,” and both women laughed as Maria took it from her mother, lightly tucking it into a pocket in her skirts.

“God bless great aunt Bess, I’d completely forgotten about that,” Maria confessed,

“Bless her indeed so you’ll expect you in a few moments then?” Maria nodded as her mother turned to leave. “You hear that Michael? So you’d better be downstairs within the next moments!” and with that the door quietly shut behind her.

Maria closed her eyes, trying to compose herself. Her mother was such an amazing person ... she was so lucky and Maria was failing to hold back the tears ... as she was instantly picked up in another wild embrace when Michael came out from his hiding place.

“Now I know why you’re like what you are,” he confessed as she held onto him tighter. “You and your mother never seize to amaze me,”

“What are you letting yourself in for?”

“The best time of my whole life,” And he kissed her gently in the next moment. it was aperfect kiss, even better than their first kiss and all the encounters they’d shared after. The first kiss, at Max and Liz’s wedding would always hold a very special place in his heart. He hadn't expected it to affect him at all; it was just a kiss. He'd kissed a lot of women, and usually the kissing was just a precursor to more. Kissing had never had much of an emotional effect on him, until he kissed Maria. It had been more than just a kiss, after all. He remembered, as he pulled back from the contact, looking at her. She had suddenly seemed different to him. Maria, and yet ... more than the Maria he knew. It was as though, in that moment, he knew that there was far more to her than he had realized - facets of her personality that he never would know. She was a woman with needs and desires and dreams. In kissing her, he felt that he'd fallen out of a slumber.

But this kiss was out of this world because he knew she'd be his wife before the hour.

“Well, well who’d a thought Michael Guerin as the hopeless romantic,” she teased, pulling him out of his own thoughts.

He shrugged his shoulders. “The things you do to me what am I to do with you?“

She smiled. In a few short moments Maria knew exactly what he was doing to do with her. Marry her.

Michael just continued to drink her in. Maria had never reacted to him the way other women did - fawning and cloying. She'd wanted his respect and to be his friend. It was also clear to him, right from the start, that she'd considered herself his equal in every way. She was altogether different than any other woman he'd ever known. He'd come to know and respect Maria as a friend. She still infuriated him at times, but he was becoming accustomed even to that. Why did she react to things so personally? Why was it that he found himself responding to her? He amazed himself with his candour when he was around her. He found himself opening up to her without even meaning to. She was easy to talk to, but there was so much more to it than that. She could move him from laughter to anger in a split second, and from frustration to instant remorse in the next. Maria Deluca was an amazing human being.

“You complete me Maria Deluca,“ He suddenly said while watching her, waiting for her reply. Thoughts and emotions were tumbling over one another inside of her, and she struggled for a moment, trying to make sense of what was happening. She was at a complete loss at what to say? Michael smiled gently, seeing her distress, "So are you almost ready?" He asked, offering her his hand.

She stepped forward and placed her hand in the crook of his arm, "Absolutely, besides I’ve brought the dress and everything - seems a pity to waste it,” she laughed.

"Absolutely," she promised, and they headed out into the hallway and down to join their guests ... Michael hurriedly arriving at the ‘alter’ first, only to meet a smiling Maxwell there, who gave him that knowing look and raised eyebrow while straightening up his tie for him. Then the music started almost at once and the blushing bride soon followed.


*~*

Elizabeth Evans slowly walked down the wooden stairs to find her husband sitting in the living room, rocking slowly in an old wooden rocking chair that sat by the large window. He was softly singing a lullaby to little Megan who lay sleeping in his arms; Claudia, their first born was curled up at his feet, keeping him company in the darkness of the night. Her heart soared at the sight of her beloved family.

Liz watched him from the landing for a few moments, wondering how she had ever let him get away from her and thanking fate for putting them back together at the right place and time. He’d made a full recovery, which just proved to her they were meant to be.

She was trying desperately not to draw attention to herself, needing to witness the moment for as long as she could. The floorboards creaked beneath her. Max looked up and stopped singing when he saw her.

“Hey.“ he whispered. Liz walked slowly to him.

"Hey, do you want me to take over for a little while?" she asked.

"It‘s okay," Max replied, "She's finally asleep, and I'd hate to wake her." As if agreeing with her father, Megan wiggled and gurgled, then settled back to sleep. Liz smiled marvelling at the tiny miracle Max held in his arms. There had been a time when she wouldn't have believed she would ever see this sight, but here they were, and the scene was pure magic.

"It’s been a busy day for all of us,” Max added, yawning widely; the wedding of Michael and Maria was surly something to remember and it had been a long journey back home.

“That it was,“ Liz sighed. “It was a beautiful day wasn’t it?“ she smiled, breathing deeply.

“Yes, it was and I’m positive they will be as happy as I am,“ Max openly confessed. Liz stared at him, completely speechless. How come he always knew how to say the right things to her? “I really enjoyed being with everyone again," he added softly.

"What you actually missed that chaos when *all* of us get together?” she smirked.

“Absolutely, it was truly a wonderful day, chaos and all.”

“Oh you old romantic you ... so you’re still happy then Max?“ she asked.

“Blissfully,“ and his smile beamed across to her.

“You know what?" she asked, stepping closer to her husband. Max raised his eyebrows.

"No, what?“ he teased quietly.

“Have I told you lately how much I love you Maxwell Philip Evans?"

Max looked at the clock on the wall, noting the early hour. "Not in this hour, no" he teased, "but then, the night is young."

"You think pretty highly of yourself don’t you?" she teased in return, placing her hands on her hips.

"Well, can I help being so loveable?," Max replied cheekily.

Liz smiled and brushed a stray lock of hair from his face. "No you can’t, and I’m the luckiest woman alive to be the one who gets to love you,“ she ruffed his hair, looking down at little Megan.

“God she looks like her mother; poor thing, that could be a problem," she noted.

"Just as long as she doesn't take after her," he joked. "I seem to recall a rather stubborn tendency in her. I'm just glad she was able to let me near ... eventually."

“So am I,“ Liz chuckled, leaning forward to kiss her husband on the top of his head. Max giggled, causing Megan to stir again. Quickly, he lowered his tone. Liz yawned while watching Max rock their daughter back and forth while resting a hand on Claudia’s head below him. It suddenly occurred to her that if someone had told her, ten years ago, that she would be sitting in an amazing house, beside one of the most incredible lakes in New Zealand room watching her beautiful husband rock their baby, she would have thought they were crazy. She smiled and whispered, "I love you, Max."

"I love you, too," he softly responded, reaching out his hand to her as the clock struck midnight. “You just managed to squeeze that one in,”

“I know,” Liz whispered proudly. “And just think it all starts over again tomorrow.” Grasping his hand with her own, Liz closed her eyes and leaned back her head. She was getting very. very sleepy. "I've been thinking ...," she started.

"Uh-oh," Max muttered.

Liz shot him a look from the corner of her eye. "Nothing bad, I was just wandering how long it will take Daniel and Tess to wed?"

“Who knows with those two ... who’d a thought they’d end up together?” he whispered.

Liz smiled, “Stranger things have happened, the war ... and you have proofed that, besides what’s the odds of Daniel falling off a horse and ending up in the exact same hospital as sister Tess Harding?” Her smile grew; she still couldn’t get her head around that. Flighty Tess Harding running a hospital ward. Liz fell silent for a moment. She lifted her head to find Max staring at her, his eyes sparkling.

“Of course we can travel back to America when the time comes,” He squeezed her hand tighter and looked into her eyes, “ I know you miss him terribly Liz,“ pure conviction written on his face.

Liz nodded, “He‘s part of my family and everyone wants their family close to home don‘t there," she whispered and she squeezed his hand in return. She’d been lucky her mother and other family members had sold up and moved out there with her. Daniel wanted to, he knew he’d miss Liz desperately and he loved Max like a brother - but he had family issues that kept him in the states. "Thank you Max," she said, running her thumb over the back of his fingers, causing those familiar, yet tantalizing shivers to course through her body.

"For what?" he asked, finding her voice.

"For giving us .... me a second chance," she replied.

"It's never too late to start over," he replied, "especially when it's meant to be.”

Liz thought about that for a moment. Liz had never been as happy as she was right then. She leaned forward, careful not to wake the sleeping infants, and kissed Max gently on his lips, lingering there, her fingers in his hair. "You know what else I've been thinking?" she whispered, her lips brushing his as she spoke.

"Hmmm?" he asked, planting tiny kisses around her mouth.

Liz so wanted to tell him - but she could see how sleepy he was. “It’s bedtime sleepyhead.” and bending down she took Megan out of his arms, while Max gathered little Claudia up.

*~*

After they’d put the little ones to bed. Max bounded along the hallway and pulled Liz into a gentle hug. As they walked into the bedroom, she put her arms around his neck and they shared a delicate kiss. She’d never tire of doing that as long as she lived. They had some talking to do, she had something to tell him ... but they were both tried, it could wait for morning.

After he climbed in next to her, he pulled her to his chest, where she fell asleep instantly. Kissing her head, drifting to sleep himself, Max whispered, "I love you, My Liz."

*~*

The early morning light filtered into the room. Max opened his eyes and blinked rapidly in an attempt to wake up. He could feel his wife's warm body, sleeping contentedly next to him.

Slowly, he rolled onto his side to watch her. Her breathing was slow and even. Memories of the gentle love they'd made the night before flooded his senses. Almost subconsciously, he reached over and lightly traced her face with his finger. He'd nearly lost her when she ran from him. Nearly lost her from his injuries. Nearly lost her when their baby was born. That was the absolute worst, seeing her lying there after little Claudia was born, helplessly sprawled across that bed, had been unbearable. His arms still bore the memory of holding her lifeless, fragile body as he carried her down the staircase in his families home. He’d only just become fully mobile but he would have crawled over broken glass in order to save Liz Parker. Even now, the rage he'd felt at the thought of losing her, after only just finding her again stirred in him a smouldering anger that he had rarely ever felt. He'd held her hand all through the night and the day and had spoken soothing, reassuring words. To his immense relief, she had opened her eyes and smiled at him, having heard at least part of what he'd been saying. ‘I love you, please don’t leave me,’ It was the simple truth, and yet, incomprehensibly, she been touched by his admission. He heard her softly repeat his words and knew then that she would be okay.

What would he have done if she hadn't pulled through? He loved her so much; she had brought so much joy and tenderness into his life. Every moment was a chance to be with her, a chance to discover something new about her and about himself. He sent up a silent thanks to whatever entity had allowed her to remain with him, had spared him from a painful loss in his life. He needed her - needed her more than he'd ever needed anyone.

He wanted to savour every minute with her and watching her sleep was one of the most precious things in his life ... that and there were other things besides. Many, many others and they were simple joys that he would never take for granted.

Continuing to observe her, he knew that his love for her would only grow through the years. Her eyelashes fluttered and he knew that she'd wake up soon ... either she would or the babies.

She sighed in her sleep, her dark lashes fluttering against her cheeks. Softly, he placed a hand on her abdomen and watched as one of her hands came up and grasped his fingers. As if sensing his eyes on her, she opened her eyes. “Are you watching me again, Max?" she questioned teasingly.

"How long have you been awake?" he asked, grinning at her.

She yawned. "Long enough to wonder what you're thinking about?" Shifting, she turned toward him and rubbed his forearm lightly.

Admiring her tousled appearance, he replied, "I was thinking about how lucky I am that you came into my life. How smart I was to fall in love with you, and ... "

"And?" One eyebrow rose characteristically.

He leaned in and kissed her soundly, then pulled away and said, "And the future. How, no matter where it takes us, I just want to be with you and our children."

“And you will be Max,” Clearly affected by his words, she smiled. "I love you." Liz responded softly as Max smiled and their eyes locked. Their hearts were pounding as; never losing eye contact, Max slowly cupped his face in his palms.

Gently leaning over for kiss, he smiled back, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I love you, too."

Liz put out a hand and touched his bare chest. She was encircled by a strong pair of arms and kissed fervently on the lips. Her mind reeled; her body turned to instant goo. As the kiss continued, her arms made their way around his neck and into his hair, resulting in her being pulled even closer. The kiss deepened and intensified, and Liz felt like she'd been on a train that was going really, really fast. Her knees were weak and there were butterflies fluttering around inside her stomach. When at last the contact was broken ...

"Max," Liz whispered as she closed her eyes and tilted her head.

“Yes?“ Max hesitated only a moment before his lips covered Liz’s again. The delicate kiss, as it had started out, had turned into a passionate one as Liz put her arms around Max's neck and let her fingers wander in his hair. Max shuddered involuntarily as Liz's tongue explored his mouth.

“You know what you were saying about being with me and our children,“

“Yes?“ he breathed out heavily as they kissed again.

“Well ...,“ Max's hand slowly found it's way under Liz’s nightgown and was rubbing her stomach softly. Liz fingers were gently travelling up and in-between his shoulder blades. As she broke the kiss and began to plant tiny kisses on Max's chest, his hand moved up to her chest, and Max moaned, "Liz ... mm ..." then they heard their littlest crying, causing Liz to jump.

“It’s okay my love, you rest - I’ll go,” and he planted the gentlest of kisses on her forehead as he left the bed.

*~*

Megan was always a hungry little thing and after Max had tended to her he snuggled back into bed.

“Is she settled?“

“Absolutely,“ Max looked into Liz's eyes, drawing her closer without thinking. "You’re beautiful." His voice was so sincere. And the way he was looking at her made Liz feel like she could melt. “Now ....” and he snuggled in closer to her. Max propped himself up on his elbow and looked into her eyes. Slowly he bend toward Liz and saw her eyes close. He placed his other hand on her side. “Where were we?“ When their lips met briefly and parted, they both sighed and kissed again. Max pulled Liz over so that he was on his back and she was leaning on his side. Max ran his tongue over his lips, savouring the lingering flavour of hers. "I've never wanted anyone like I want you. I don't know what you've done to me."

Liz absently ran a finger along his collarbone, giving him chills. She knew exactly what she’d done to him because he’d done the same thing to her. Captivated her soul. “I’m pregnant Max,” there she’d finally got the chance to tell him. Her admission startled him, and they found themselves looking at each other, waiting for something to happen.

“Well,” Max finally said, “I guess there’s only one thing to do.” He pulled her into his arms and held her close to him, pressing his forehead to hers.

“What’s that?” she asked, a quaver in her voice. She looked at him and saw his eyes darkening with desire. Then, his lips were on hers and the whole world simply melted away. If their kiss first kiss had been amazing, this one was earth shattering. There was nothing sweet and innocent about this kiss. This one was filled with the passion and desire of two people that meant the entire world to each other. Finally Max drew back and Liz tried to catch her breath. Smiling, he answered her question. “Get a bigger house and live happily ever after.”

“Happily ever after,” Liz repeated his words, nodding her head, with a glint in her brown eyes "I like the sound of that."

.... And that's what they did, adding little Molly and her twin brother Andrew and baby Jake along the way.


The end