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Well, here's the next part! Not very long, I know. But hopefully it won't be too big of a disappointment! Well, on with the next part!
PART TWENTY TWO
“Where to milady?” Max asked Liz as he did a small bow in front of her. They had just decided to go out for the afternoon considering Maria and Michael had already left. After their emotional conversation and promises of a sweet courtship, they were both ready to lighten the mood around them.
Liz giggled. “I’m not sure. I’ve never been to Greece before. Where would you suggest we go?” Max just smiled as he took her hand. After kissing the hand he had grabbed, he lovingly caressed it with his thumb while gazing in to her big brown eyes. “Everywhere. Anywhere. So long as it’s with you, Liz.” The playfulness was clearly gone by that statement and Liz couldn’t help feel her heart speed up at his loving words. Her response was clear to Max though as the pretty blush stained her cheeks.
“But for now,” Max continued adding the playfulness back to his voice, “we’ll start out at the Athens Museum.” Liz smiled her thanks for the change of mood. “Sounds like a plan. Shall we?” Max grinned even bigger and started pulling her out of the room. “We shall. We shall.”
The afternoon was kept lighthearted and both Max and Liz had enjoyed the presence of one another. For the first time since their relationship had started, Liz felt as if they were a normal couple just out for an afternoon date. This was exactly what she needed after spending the night alone and then having the breakdown with him earlier. Of course, Max too, had needed the time with Liz if nothing but for reassurance that she wasn’t going to leave. His biggest fear was to have fallen in love with her and then have her leave him. But as the afternoon continued, Max’ fears as well as Liz’ had been put to rest.
As they pulled in to the drive of the elaborate mansion later that evening, a familiar car was sitting in the drive. Max felt Liz tense beside him. “Baby,” Max started as he reached over and grabbed her hand, “its okay. She’s not fool enough to start something again. You don’t even have to see her if you don’t want to.” Liz just shook her head but her facial expression was far from being convinced. “Liz, baby, look at me.” Liz looked up in to his eyes and he could see fresh tears pooling in her eyes. “Oh, Liz.” Max gently pulled her in to his embrace and stroked her hair. “I love you, Liz. Nothing my sister can say or do will change that. Okay?” Liz nodded against his chest but said nothing.
“Hey,” Max said softly and he pulled back to look her in the face. “I have an idea. Why don’t I get rid of Isabel and then you and I can go sit in the Jacuzzi for a while? What do you say? Sound like a plan?” The last part of his question he said teasingly, reminding her of her comment to him earlier that morning. Liz smiled as she wiped the stray tears away. “Yeah, sounds good.” Max kissed her on her nose and then unbuckled his seat belt. “Okay. You head on upstairs and put your swimsuit on and I will meet you at the Jacuzzi in 5 minutes. I just need to tell Isabel to leave, change in to my suit, and then I’ll meet you there. Okay?” Liz nodded again. “Liz?” She tilted her head to look at him. “Trust me okay?” Liz smiled again and rolled her eyes. “I do trust you, Max. It’s Isabel I don’t trust.” Max leaned over one more time placing a gentle kiss to her lips. “I love you” he whispered. “I love you too, Max”. “Okay, love. Let’s go.”
Liz headed straight upstairs as soon as they entered the house. She turned at the top of the stairs and looked at Max who was still standing there watching her ascent. “I love you” she mouthed and he blew her a kiss then headed in to the sitting room where he knew Isabel would be waiting.
As soon as he entered the room, Isabel stood up and wiped her sweaty palms on her pants. “Max!” Before she could say anything else, Max interrupted her. “Isabel,” he said coolly. “I thought I told you last night that I had heard enough?” Isabel’s mouth dropped open not only at his tone but at what he was saying. “Max, I..I”, she stammered. “You what, Isabel? Wanted to convince me that I’ve made the wrong decision to be with Liz? Well, I haven’t. I love her, Isabel. You’ll either accept it and be part of my life, or you can refuse to accept it and cut yourself off from me forever. The choice is yours. However, right now, I have nothing more to say to you. I have a beautiful woman waiting for me upstairs and I don’t plan to keep her waiting any longer.” As he turned to leave he stopped short and turned back around. “I think you know your way out.” With that he turned once again and started to leave the room.
“Max, wait! Please!” Isabel said as she rushed across the room to grab his arm. “I’m not here to convince you of anything except how sorry I am for everything.” She let go of his arm as he turned to look at her. With her head down, she continued. “I was wrong, Max. I’m so sorry about the way I acted.” Lifting her head, Max could see tears running down her face. “I love you, Max, so much. I was just so worried that she was using you and it was clear how you felt about her. I just didn’t want you hurt.”
Max just raised an eyebrow but remained silent. “I was also jealous of her.” Max folded his arms across his chest as if to say ‘Go on’. Isabel continued knowing Max wasn’t going to make this easy on her. “After mom and dad died, I’ve been the only woman in your life, for the most part. I was afraid I was going to lose you. I know that I was being selfish, but please forgive me. I’ve seen how wrong I was and I’m so sorry. Please, Max. Please! I can’t stand the thought of you not being in my life.” She was sobbing by this point and Max couldn’t take his nonchalant attitude any longer. “Oh, Iz!” He pulled her in to a hug and kissed her head. “You’re my sister! How in the world could I forget about you? There’s no way that’s possible. Don’t you realize I have enough love to go around? I am capable of loving both you and Michael and still be in love with Liz at the same time.” Isabel sniffed. “I know. I’m so sorry, Max.” “I am too, Isabel. I love you. I do forgive you and I want you to be a part of my life. Mine and Liz’ life. But as much as I want that, I can’t speak for Liz. You’ve caused a lot of problems that were totally unnecessary if you would have just taken the time to get to know her before you made your own conclusions about her. Now, I’m not sure there’s anything that can be done by either of us to change her mind where you’re concerned.”
Isabel just shook her head and pulled back from Max’ embrace. “I understand, but I can at least try, right?” Isabel was looking at Max so hopefully that Max couldn’t deny her. “Sure you can, Iz.” Then realizing what time it was, he chuckled. “Just not tonight. I have a date in the Jacuzzi and I’m late.” Isabel laughed. “I’ll show myself out.” She and Max started walking towards the front door. Just as she opened the door to head out she stopped. “Max?” she asked as she turned around. Max was already heading up the stairs, but at her call, he stopped and raised his eyebrows. “Thanks for forgiving me for acting like a bitch. I really am sorry for everything.” “Your welcome, Iz. Have a good night and be careful going home.” “I will,” and she smiled. “I love you.” “Love you too,” and with that she walked out the door closing it behind her.
Max rushed around his room hoping Liz wasn’t mad at him for being late. Just as he dropped his trousers and moved to take off his boxers, a small voice interrupted him from the direction of his bed. “You’re late.” Max whipped around only to stop short at the sight of Liz half naked lying on his bed. His mouth had fallen open and he was openly staring. Liz blushed but refused to cover herself up. She was lying there in nothing but a very skimpy string bikini that Maria had insisted she buy while in Antar. She had been saving it until her trip to Greece and seeing as this had been her only opportunity to wear it, Max had yet to see it. Obviously he approved.
“You told me five minutes and it’s been at least seven.” She grinned as he continued to stand there speechless. She slowly got up and walked over to where he was standing. “Max, honey, is something wrong?” Liz knew exactly what was wrong with Max. After all, she too had been missing out on the intimacy the two of them had shared since meeting. She had been enjoying the striptease but once he reached for his boxers, she knew she had to interrupt him. Otherwise, her decision to take things slower would have been changed. Quickly! Just as she reached over to touch his chest, his hand shot out and grabbed her wrist. Her eyes widened and her breath caught at the sound of his voice. “Liz,” he started, “if you plan on the two of us taking things slowly, you’re going to have to leave right now.” Liz couldn’t help it, she had to laugh. “Oh, Max!” She swatted at him playfully and almost missed the feral growl Max gave.
“No, Liz. I mean it. Go down to the Jacuzzi. I’ll be right there. If you don’t get out of here and soon, I’ll have to make love to you. I can’t not touch you if you remain standing in front of me with just that on.” Liz smiled and he gave her a tight smile in return. It was obvious the reaction he was having to her. “Now, please, if you love me, get out of here. I’ll join you as soon as I can.”
Liz leaned up and kissed his neck even though she knew she was playing with fire. She looked up at his face as she pulled back and noticed the way he stood rigid with his eyes closed tight. She smiled devilishly then leaned up to his lips. With one lick to his lips and a whispered ‘I love you’ she darted to the door just as his control snapped and he lunged toward her. She gave a hearty laugh as she jerked open the door and closed it behind her before he could reach her. She leaned against the door, her head back while trying to catch her breath. She could hear Max against the door on the other side breathing harshly. She giggled silently to herself as she heard him muttering to himself and occasionally slapping the door in frustration. Deciding that she was safer away from his room than she was against the door, she quickly pulled herself upright and quickly walked down the hall. All of a sudden, she didn’t know if her decision to tease him was such a great idea after all. Especially considering the two of them were soon to be in a Jacuzzi all alone with very little clothing on.
<center>“So she can compare notes with all those smart bastards and get even smarter and then take over the world, one ignorant moron at a time. And guess what, Kyle, they’re coming for you.”, </center>
This part sucks and I'm so sorry. I wanted to go ahead and get another part out considering it's been September since there was an update. I promise, the next part will be better.
PART TWENTY-THREE
It wasn’t long before Liz reached the hot tub. As she started the water, adjusting for the perfect temperature, her anxiety grew at the prospect of her and Max alone with little clothes on. She knew his restraint was failing especially after her little stunt in his room moments before. However, she couldn’t help but tease him, if even a little. Now she just hoped that she didn’t tease his control too much. Sure she missed the intimacy they had shared over her first week while in Antar but she was still adamant about taking things slower.
Getting in to the now steaming water, she sighed in relief as the warm water eased her tensed muscles. She didn’t realize just how much the last few days had worn her out until now. With Isabel’s icy attitude towards her upon their arrival in Greece, to her temporarily breaking off the engagement with Max, to the emotional conversation they had had regarding her shady past, she was absolutely exhausted. Now just as she thought things were looking up for her and Max, Isabel shows back up. She couldn’t help but wonder as to the reason of Isabel’s visit. Was she here to finish what she started? Or was she here to make amends with her brother? Despite Liz’ misgivings towards Isabel, she couldn’t help but hope it was the latter of the two, at least for Max’ sake. Liz knew how much he loved Michael and Isabel. She also knew it was killing him that he and Isabel were not getting along, no matter how much he refused to say it. Now she could only hope and pray that things between Max and Isabel were on the mends as their relationship was.
As the water started to slowly cool, Liz became increasingly aware of Max’ absence. Just as she was about to get out and go check on him, Max walked through the door. To Liz, he looked absolutely edible. Wearing nothing but low riding swim trunks that left nothing to the imagination, Max was the epitome of a Greek God. His rippling abs, his toned skin, the attributes his body held beneath the small scrap of material….God, how was she to stay in this Jacuzzi without mauling the poor man! As their eyes met, Liz blushed when she realized that Max knew exactly what she was thinking. His smirk as well as the lusty gleam in his eye told her this was his sweet revenge for her little stunt earlier. Now she just had to exercise her own control as he lowered himself directly in front of her.
“Mmmm” Max moaned as he made himself comfortable in the tub. He had purposely chosen this place to sit rather than next to Liz as a direct plot of revenge for her little stunt in his room. He had taken a considerable amount of time calming himself down in his room before he was even able to put on his ole-so-revealing trunks. He, at first, thought about toning down his attire by wearing the tradition swim trunks; however, remembering how much she seemed to enjoy taunting him, he decided all was fair in love and war. Apparently his decision was a good one if the look on her face when he entered was any indication. Now as he sat here, his legs straddling hers, the revenge was pretty much complete. Any more teasing and it would be him who would be in trouble.
“The water has cooled off a little,” Liz finally started once she was able to get over the initial shock of Max practically sitting on top of her. “I had begun to think that you were not coming down here after all.” Max just smiled and tilted his head back against the tub. Closing his eyes, he took a moment to respond. “You know exactly what took me so long, Liz. It’s a wonder I was even able to walk down here at all.” With that he chuckled but said no more. Liz had the decency to blush and chose to remain quiet. After a few more minutes of comfortable silence, Max asked, “Would you like me to turn the heat up?” It was a simple question, one meant in total innocence, but as Max picked his head up from its place against the tub, the look on Liz’ face showed she took it entirely different.
“H-Huh? What?” she stuttered as Max sat there chuckling to himself. “The heat of the water, Liz,” Max started, shaking his head. “Would you like me to turn the heaters up?” Liz blushed once again at Max’ teasing tone. It was quite apparent he knew exactly what she was thinking. “Please” she replied softly, refusing to look in to his amused eyes. Max couldn’t resist kissing her now. She just looked so darn cute when she was embarrassed. Lifting her chin up with his index finger, he slowly leaned in and gave her a gentle kiss, doing his best to keep it from going further. But once Liz sighed and melted in to his kiss, moving her body closer in to his, all of his good intentions flew out of the window.
Max instantly deepened the kiss, using long thorough sweeps of his tongue to explore her warm mouth. Running his hands down her back, he gently picked her up, bringing her from under his thighs, reversing their previous position with her straddling him. Liz whimpered when her body came in contact with his erection that was already released from his trunks. After all, it barely covered him without an erection much less with one. Max continued on in a passionate daze, completely forgetting about anything else except being inside Liz. His body was in serious need of release, and Liz was the only woman he wanted to get it with. So before Liz realized what was happening, Max undid her bikini bottoms, pulled it away, and buried his cock to the hilt in her core in one fluid move.
Liz gasp at the feel of Max inside her again. “Max!” she moaned as he gently lifted her up and down, working her on his cock. “God, Liz, I’ve missed this,” Max moaned as he gently suckled her nipple through her bikini top, then groaned in frustration before yanking the simple triangle scrap away. “Oh, God,” he cried again as he took her nipple between his lips sucking it and laving it with his tongue. Never once did he loosen his grip around her waist nor did he stop the rhythm he had set up with her body.
“Max,” Liz panted as her senses came back to her, “we need to stop.” She patted him on his shoulder at the same time he thrust harder, making her head fall back unconsciously. “Stop? I don’t think I could stop if I wanted to, baby. God, I’m so close.” Max continued to jerk her body down on his cock while he pumped his hips up to meet hers. “I’m so close…I’m so close….”, he chanted with each thrust. Liz was beside herself. On one hand, she loved this intimacy with Max, on the other hand, they had agreed to go slow, both of them. This was anything but slow. Just as she was about to say something else, Max shifted angles a little causing Liz to cry out with her orgasm. That’s all it took for Max to climax, shuddering with his release.
Both were still breathing harshly when Liz untangled herself from Max’ arms. “Baby?” Max asked as Liz moved to sit on the other side of the tub. “What’s wrong?” Liz didn’t answer right away, instead concentrating on getting her top back in place. She looked around for her bikini bottoms refusing to make eye contact with Max. “Liz, talk to me,” Max begged as he tossed her bikini bottoms to her from his side of the Jacuzzi. Liz again refused to answer, concentrating again on getting her suit back on.
Max sighed. “Look, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you.” Liz finally looked up and met his gaze. “You didn’t upset me, Max. I love you and I love making love to you….” “But?” he questioned with a raise of an eyebrow. “But,” Liz said slowly, looking back down, “we agreed to go slow, Max. That included our sexual relationship.” Looking back up, Liz saw the guilty look that crossed Max’ face. “Max,” she started reaching out to touch his arm, “we both did this, not just you, not just me, but both of us. I don’t regret our making love tonight. I just think we need to take things slower from here on out. Agreed?” Max smiled. “Agreed.” Liz smiled back. “Good. How about we get out of here and call it a night.” “Sure. Your room or mine?” he teased. “Very funny, Max,” Liz laughed. “Well, you did say we could start new after tonight.” He wiggled his eyebrows up and down, making sure she understood his meaning. “Max!” Liz exclaimed as he swatted her on her backside. “You’re insatiable.” “Only with you, baby, only with you.”
<center>“So she can compare notes with all those smart bastards and get even smarter and then take over the world, one ignorant moron at a time. And guess what, Kyle, they’re coming for you.”, </center>
“So?” I look up from packing to see Max standing in the doorframe. “You’re really going to go?” I look back down refolding my shirt for the second time. “Max, we’ve been over this already.” The past week was exactly how Liz had wanted it. Max wined and dined her, they shared secret kisses, but never went past the boundaries Liz had requested since that night in the hot tub. Now they were back in Antar and it was time for Liz to go home.
“Why can’t you stay here?” Max demanded. “How in the hell are we suppose to have a relationship with you half way around the world?!” Liz dropped her shirt with frustration and turned to face him. “Max, as much as I would love to stay here with you, I do have a job I have to go back to.” “Bullshit!” Max yelled as he stalked over to her. “You know damn well you don’t have to go back!”
“Max,” Liz sighed as she touched his cheek. “I have to go back. I need to get some things squared away. I’ve already told you that.” Max jerked away from her touch and stalked over to the window. As he stared blindly out of the window, Liz continued. “Baby, please don’t do this. I told you, I’ll be back. I’ll only be a few weeks and then I’m coming back. I promise.” Max said nothing as he continued to stare out of the window. A few minutes of silence past between the two and then he turned and stormed out of her room just as fast as he had entered.
Liz sat with a huff on her bed and sniffed. “Chica, you ready?” Once again, Liz looked up to see someone in her door. This time, however, it was her cousin, Maria. “Almost. A few more things to pack.” Maria nodded. She too was under fire for leaving with Liz. Michael was not happy with her decision to return home; however, he was more understanding than Max. After all, she was coming back in two weeks. “Need some help?” she asked as she walked to where Liz was sitting. “Yeah, thanks.” “Sure.”
A half hour later, and Liz was standing on the steps of the palace as her bags were loaded in to the car. Michael had come down to see Maria off. They were off to her side kissing and hugging as if they were not to see each other ever again. Max, however, had not come to see her off. She kept looking around, waiting and watching for any sign that he may come; however, he never did. The driver announced they were ready and opened the door. She made another glance around to see if Max had come and then got in to the car. Tears silently trailed down her cheeks as Maria got in and Michael closed the door behind her. The last thing Liz saw as the car left the royal grounds, was Max perched atop his black mare staring at her from under a weeping willow.
**
Two weeks had passed with no word from Max. She had called when they had arrived home but only Michael was there to take her call. Apparently Max had yet to make an appearance since she had left earlier that day. Michael offered to give Max a message which Liz graciously accepted. Now two weeks had passed and he had yet to return her call.
Liz rolled out of bed. It was early afternoon by the looks of the sun coming through the curtains. She needed to get up and start moving around, that is if she could find the energy to. Lately she didn’t have the strength to talk much less to move around the house. Good thing she had quit her job upon arriving back in the states. Staggering on her feet, she made her way to the bathroom sink to wash her face. Just as she turned the water on, a bout of nausea overwhelmed her and she ended up vomiting in to her sink. “God, what is wrong with me?” she mumbled as her stomach calmed.
“Lizzie, you in here?” Maria called from inside her room. “In here, Maria.” “Are you just now getting up?” Maria asked as she took in Liz’ rumpled appearance. “Yeah.” “Are you okay?” Maria asked concerned when she saw Liz’ pale face. “No, I don’t feel very well, Maria. It’s been getting worse since we got back. First I just wrote it off as jet lag, but now I’m not so sure.” She shook her head as she looked up at Maria from her perch on the toilet lid. “I think I may have the flu.” Another bout of nausea hit her as she stood to her feet making her spin around to wretch in the toilet. Out of nowhere came a cold wash rag washing her face. “Hun, I think you may be pregnant.” Liz shook her head as she continued to hover over the toilet. “I can’t be. I just can’t.” “Uh, Liz, honey, I hate to state the obvious but as much as you and Max went at it like bunnies, you certainly can be.” Liz shook her head in denial once more. “You don’t understand, Maria. I can’t be pregnant. Max can’t have kids.”
Maria took a step back. “What do you mean ‘Max can’t have kids?’” “Just that,” but Liz was interrupted from her explanation as she coiled over from another vomiting spell. “I don’t care how or why you believe that, but I’m getting you a pregnancy test. If you’re not fine but then we’ll know that it’s probably just the flu.” As she helped Liz up and back to her bed she asked, “You going to be okay while I run to the store.” Liz closed her eyes and just nodded. Before Maria was out of the door, Liz was already deep asleep.
**
“Well?” Liz asked from her bed. The timer had just went off and Maria was checking on the pregnancy test. “Two lines mean yes and one line means no, right?” Maria called back. Liz looked back down at the instructions on her lap. “Yes, it says that if two lines are positive and one line is negative. What does it read?” Liz was anxiously chewing on her lip waiting for Maria’s answer. Maria walked out holding the little test strip. “What exactly did Max say about not being able to father children?” Liz frowned but answered, “Just that he had had an accident and that he couldn’t have children afterwards, why?” “Well, honey,” Maria started as she sat next to Liz on the bed, “it looks as if his information was wrong.” She handed Liz the test strip and sure enough two lines were present. Liz was pregnant with Max’ baby.
<center>“So she can compare notes with all those smart bastards and get even smarter and then take over the world, one ignorant moron at a time. And guess what, Kyle, they’re coming for you.”, </center>
“Are you sure you want to do this, Liz? I mean, Max hasn’t even bothered to call.” Maria was done packing and now she was sitting on the edge of Liz’ bed watching as she packed the last of her things in a box. “Maria, I’m going back. Even if I wasn’t pregnant with his baby, I’d still go back.” She finally put the last trinket in the box and then started taping the box closed. “Besides, you know as well as I do that Max’ pride is hurt and that’s all. I mean, God, the man is so impossible at times.” She blew a piece of stray hair out of her face and then looked up a Maria. “He’s used to having women at his beck and call and I’m not that type of woman and he doesn’t know how to deal at times.” Maria rolled her eyes. “So that’s it? He’s forgiven just like that?” Liz chuckled. “Hell no! I’m going to rip him a new one when I see him and don’t think I’m not.” Both girls chuckled. “I’m just saying that I love him, Maria, like I’ve never loved anyone. I can see past his faults and despite what Prince Maxwell of Antar thinks, I know him. I know his mannerisms, his quirks, I’ve got to know him, the man, not the façade he puts up for everyone else.” With the last box taped and marked, Liz let out a huge sigh and moved around the bed to sit with Maria.
“So, how’s Michael?” Maria blushed and looked down. “He’s fine. He’s ready for me to come back. God knows I am too.” Liz smiled and patted her hand. “You really are falling for him huh?” Maria looked up. For the first time Liz noticed tears of emotion in Maria’s eyes. “’Ria?” Maria just sniffed and rolled her eyes, brushing away the few tears that made its way down her cheeks. “God, what has happened to me? I just think about that big lug and I’m bawling like a sappy old lady!” Both girls laughed. “Let’s just say I know exactly what you mean about loving someone more than you ever thought possible. Michael, he’s just…” she shook her head as if trying to find the right words. Her next words were soft and reverent. “He’s so sweet, Liz. I’ve never had a man show me so much respect and treat me as if I’m a treasure that he had no plans on ever getting rid of. Does that sound silly or what?!” Maria wiped a few more tears away and laughed again at herself. “I don’t think it’s silly at all, ‘Ria. I’m just happy that you’ve found someone like Michael.” She gave Maria a soft squeeze and then decided to lighten the mood. “Besides,” she started as she got up looking around her room, “I’d hate to think I was moving all the way to another country and leaving you behind. At least this way, you’re going back with me!” She turned to Maria and smiled. “You big dope!” Maria joked as she too joined Liz walking around the room looking for anything they had missed. “You know I would’ve come with you anyway! Whether I liked Michael or not!” Liz just laughed. “Well, I think that’s it. What time are the movers going to be here?” She started chewing on her lip in thought. “You know,” she said checking her watch, “our flight leaves in six hours. They better get a move on.” Maria walked over and put an arm around her shoulders. “Hun, calm down. They’ll be here.” Just then the doorbell rang. “See?” Liz rolled her eyes at Maria’s ‘matter-of-fact’ tone. “Let’s go. I’m anxious to get this done and over with.” “Me too, sister. Me too.”
**
“Michael is sending a car to pick us up and as requested, Max knows nothing.” Maria informed Liz as they gathered their carry-on bags from the overhead compartments. “He said that Max has been sulking around the house for the past three weeks barely speaking to anyone, Michael included.” Liz just smiled knowing Max all too well. “Michael told him that he should call you but he just growled and walked away. Growled, Liz! What kind of human growls?!” They shared a laugh and made their way off the plane. Both girls looked around for the driver that they knew but couldn’t find him.
“Liz?” Both girls turned around and to their surprise found Tess standing there. “Tess? What a surprise? What are you doing here?” Tess smiled and hugged both girls. “We’ve missed you both so much! It just hasn’t been the same around here since you two left. And I mean that literally.” Tess directed the comment to Liz as she said the last part. Liz winced. “That bad, huh?” Tess shook her head and directed them toward the baggage claim. “Bad doesn’t even begin to describe it, Liz. He won’t leave. He yells at everybody that comes around him. I don’t even go over there any more. He acts as if he hates to even see me.” There was a tinge of sadness to her voice and Liz’ heart went out to her. Looping her arm through Tess’ she apologized. “I’m sorry, Tess. I didn’t think he would act that childish because I was going to leave for a few weeks. You don’t deserve it and I’m really sorry.” Tess just waved her off. “Oh pish posh, it’s okay. I know that Maxwell is just worried right now so I try not to take it personal.” Liz stopped and looked at Tess concerned when she and Maria stopped in question. “Why is he worried?” Tess walked up to Liz and cradled her face. “Liz, you’re the first woman Maxwell has allowed himself to ever love. You’ve been allowed to get closer than any other woman has since Maxwell’s parents died. You have to understand, he’s a little insecure in this relationship.” She took her hands down and gave Liz a hug. “He’s scared you’re not coming back, Liz,” she whispered in her ear. “He’s preparing himself for the inevitable in his mind.” When Tess pulled back Liz had tears in her eyes. “Oh, honey,” Tess cooed, “I didn’t mean to make you cry. I just wanted you to understand where Maxwell is coming from.” Liz just nodded. Maybe she didn’t know him so well after all. That thought had never even entered her mind.
“Well, come on. I told Michael I would pick you guys up and if we don’t show up soon, he’ll panic. Maria, just what have you done to that man!?” She laughed as Maria’s eyes widened. “He’s on pins and needles waiting to see you. I’ve never seen Michael so anxious.” They all three shared a laugh with the thought of Michael, Mr. Calm and Cool, being anxious. Maria rubbed her nails on her chest. “What can I say? The ‘ole Deluca charm is hard to resist.” Once again all three girls burst in to laughter. “Come on, ladies, let’s you get home.” ‘Home’. Liz liked the sound of that.
**
The car door no sooner opened than Micahel had Maria dragged out kissing her senseless. “Dear God, Michael, let the woman breathe!” Tess teased as she and Liz got out of the car. Liz giggled as the couple broke apart. She couldn’t decide who looked more ravished: Michael or Maria.
Maria just stood there in a daze as Michael came over to greet Liz. “It’s good to see you again, Liz. I’m so glad you’re here,” Michael whispered as he hugged Liz. Liz leaned up and kissed his cheek. “Is he here or is he out?” Michael shook his head. “No, he’s here. He’s not in a particularly good mood this morning I’m afraid. But then again, that’s pretty much been his mood over the last few weeks.” Liz grimaced. “But hey,” he lighted chucked her chin, “you’re here now. That’s all that matters. He’s missed you, Liz.” He added quietly, “He may be acting like an ass but it’s all because he’s just missed you so much. He loves you more than I think even he can comprehend right now.” Liz nodded once again as tears streamed down her cheeks. Damn hormones Liz thought as Michael looked at her in concern. “No tears, okay.” Liz nodded. “Good, now go in there and jump his ass for not calling you.” Liz laughed as Michael winked. “No problem. He in his office?” “Yeah, love you, Liz” Michael added as she started to walk away. “Love you too, Michael. Wish me luck!” “Good luck!” all three of them told her. Liz took a deep breath, squared her shoulders back, and walked in to the palace much more confident looking than she felt.
**
<Knock, Knock> “GO AWAY!” Liz heard bellowed from the other side of the door. “I SAID I WAS NOT TO BE BOTHERED!” Liz flinched but then decided it was time to end this tantrum once and for all. She gingerly tested the door knob as to not draw attention. It was unlocked so she turned it as quietly as she could. Once it was open a hair, she took a deep breath, then busted through the door like a whirlwind. “Well, I guess that’s too damn bad because I didn’t fly around the world just to be told to go away!” Liz stated firmly while crossing her arms. Max jumped up from his chair. “Liz?” She didn’t say a word, just stood there glaring at him with her arms crossed. A look of relief washed across Max’ features and he all but ran to her. Pulling her in to a tight hug, he kissed her head, cheek, anything he could touch. “Oh, God Liz. I never…I’m so glad you’re here.” Liz remained silent and that’s when Max realized that Liz was stiff in his arms and not returning his embrace. “Liz?” Max questioned as he pulled back to see her face. “What’s wrong?” Liz raised an eyebrow. “You really have to ask me that?”
Max pulled away completely then and turned his back to look out the window. That was it for Liz. She stalked over, yanked on his arm, and made him look at her. “No, damn it. You will not turn your back on me when I’m talking to you. Prince, King, or whatever the fuck you want to call yourself. Damn you, Max.” She choked out on a sob. “Liz…” Max called and reached out to embrace her, but she stepped back. “No. Don’t. You are going to listen to me.” Max crossed his arms in defense. “I am beyond pissed at you. First, you refused to listen when I told you I needed to go back and get some things. And as a punishment for not listening to you and going any way, you didn’t even tell me goodbye and see me off. God, Michael saw Maria off and he isn’t even engaged to her! Then if that wasn’t enough, which it was,” Liz pointed out, “I called and you didn’t return my phone call. I haven’t heard from you in three fucking weeks and now that I’m back I’m suppose to just go on like none of that happened? Well, guess what buddy?” Liz asked as she poked Max in the chest, “I don’t think so.”
Just then the butler came through and cleared his throat trying to act as if he hadn’t heard any of the conversation. “Excuse me, Miss Parker, your bags?” Liz just motioned back towards him with her hand never taking her eyes off of Max’. “Put them in Prince Maxwell’s room.” Max’ eyes widened but he remained silent. “Yes ma’am.” “Are you through?” Max whispered once they were alone again. “Hardly,” Liz seethed. Now that she had started it was hard to quit. Her hormones were raging and so were her emotions and now Max was going to have to deal with it. Max couldn’t help but smirk when he heard what she said. He could tell she was mad but God how he had missed her. “Get that damn smirk off your face mister or you can forget all about make-up sex tonight.” With that Max raised an eyebrow. “Really?” he asked smugly. “Want to bet?” His smug response just seemed to add fuel to the fire. “No bets are needed. I can guarantee.” Max grabbed her so quick that she couldn’t react, making her gasp as he crushed his mouth to hers. He took full advantage of her surprise thrusting his tongue in her mouth, tasting her for the first time in three weeks. The kiss was so full of need and want that it made Liz’ knees weak. “Oh God, Liz, I have missed you so much,” Max groaned in between kisses. “Please, tell me that you’re here for good.” Liz just nodded as she tried to get her breathing under control. Max leaned his forehead against hers. “You’re so sexy when you’re mad. Fuck, I want you.”
Liz barely had her breathing under control when Max lifted her up and sat her on his desk. “Don’t move,” Max instructed as he stalked over to his office door. Liz followed his movements and watched as he closed the door and locked it. “We wouldn’t want to be interrupted.” Liz smiled as she remembered a similar situation when they first made love. On his walk back, he shrugged out of his dress shirt and opened the fly of his pants. Before long, he was standing in front of her, pants open and erection exposed, proud and waiting. “Forgive me, baby, please,” Max whispered as he ran his hands up her thighs, bunching her skirt around her waist as he went. “God, I was going crazy without you.” Slowly he pulled the strap of lace she was wearing down her legs. “I know I was an ass to you about leaving and I’m sorry.” He scooted her forward, positioning himself to enter her silky depths. Both groaned out their pleasure when he finally joined them together. “I was so afraid to call you. I was afraid you were going to tell me that you weren’t coming back.” He continued to make confessions as he rocked back in forth within her. Their lovemaking was slow and deliberate but yet passionate. Liz leaned her head back causing her hair to fall down on the desk like a waterfall. “God, you’re so beautiful. I would dream of seeing you like this, arched back in the throes of our passion.” Finally Max picked up the pace but not enough to cause her to go over the edge. He wanted to prolong it as much as possible. He continued to thrust in to her wet center and before long, the little moans of satisfaction from Liz were getting louder and louder. “Max, please….” Keeping his pace consistent, he pulled her head down to kiss her lips. When she tried to deepen the kiss, he pulled back. “No, baby. I want you to tell me. Let me hear you. Tell me, baby, please.” Liz reached up with one hand, pulling his head back down, running her tongue over his lips until he opened for her invasion. Running her tongue back and forth over his, she shifted raising her hips to meet his thrusts. When Max groaned Liz sucked his tongue and raised her hips a little higher with each thrusts. “Harder, Max. Please, God, I’m so close.” That’s all it took. “Lay down, baby”, he panted and she eagerly obeyed. Lifting her legs up higher and hanging them over his shoulders, he laid down slightly on top of her causing him to drive deeper. He started pumping faster and harder in to her. “God, Max, yes!” Liz screamed on the verge of her orgasm. Max pumped harder and once he felt her walls start contracting, he let go pistoning as fast as could bringing on his own climax. He continued to rock softly allowing her to milk him dry.
“I love you.” Liz opened her eyes at Max’ whispered words. Lifting her hand to stroke his cheek, she was pleased when he didn’t pull away like he did the last time she did that. “I love you too, Max, so much.” Max leaned down and gave her another soft kiss. Then when he pulled away, he pulled her up too and pulled out of her. He grabbed a few tissues off the shelf and helped to clean them both up then fixed Liz’ clothing as well as his own.
“Max?” He looked up to see Liz looking at him intensely. “Yeah?” “I do need to talk to you about something. Can we maybe go for a walk?” Max’ heart did a flip at the look on her face. “Should I be worried?” Liz shook her head and slid off the desk. “No, I just have something I would like to talk to you about.” She looked down sheepishly, “It’s kind of hot in here and I really need some air if that’s okay.” Max lifted her chin so he could look in her face. “We’ll go anywhere you want.” Taking hold of her hand, he led her out of his office and down the corridor to the back patio. “Would the gardens be okay?” he asked as he started for the cobblestone walk. “That’s fine.”
They walked in silence until they reached a small sitting area in the center of the gardens. Liz went and sat down on a bench and sighed and patted the bench beside her. “Max, please come sit with me.” Silently he joined her knowing whatever it was she had to say was important to her. He tried to tell himself to calm down but his heart wasn’t cooperating. He was afraid it would burst if it continued to beat as fast as it was. “Max, I’m not sure how to start actually.” Max smiled at her nervousness, once again trying to calm himself, and grabbed her hand. “It’s okay, Liz. Whatever you have to say, we’ll work through it. Together.” He brought her hand up and kissed it. Tears welled up in her eyes and she put her head down before he could see. Unfortunately, it was a little too late. “Baby, please. You’re scaring me.” Liz sniffed. “I’m sorry. It’s nothing bad or at least I don’t think so.” She looked him in the eyes trying to ease his mind while she figured out how to tell him that she was pregnant. Taking another deep breath, she finally asked. “Remember the first time you and I made love?” He smiled and his eyes took on a dreamy look. “How could I forget? It was one of the best things that’s ever happened to me.” She smiled at his answer and continued. “I was a virgin, Max, remember?” He just nodded not sure where the direction of this conversation was going. “So you understand that I’ve never been with any one before you and I can assure you I’ve never been with any one while I was away. You’re the one I want and have wanted since meeting you. You understand that, right?” “Liz, I know all of this. Where is this coming from?”
Liz jumped up and started pacing before him. “I’m trying to get there.” She stopped and looked up at him. “You once told me that you were considering abdacating your thrown because you couldn’t have kids. Right?” “Yes,” he said somewhat hesitantly. She started her pacing again and didn’t say anything for a few minutes. Max’ nerves were standing on end. Now he was confused and more than a little scared. Hell, who was he kidding, she was terrifying him. Before his imagination could start running, he called her name encouraging her to continue. “Liz? Baby?” Once again, she stopped pacing and looked up at him. Finally making a decision, she walked over to him and kneeled down resting her hands on his knees. “Max, I’m 4 weeks pregnant almost five. I found out a week ago and the reason I was longer than expected was because I wanted to be checked by my doctor before coming here and telling you. I don’t know how or why this happened but Max, our child is growing inside of me and I can’t even begin to tell you how excited that makes me feel.” As Liz spoke silent tears made their way down Max’ cheeks. Liz stood back up and started pacing once again. “All the way here I was debating on how to tell you.” She stopped and looked at him. “I was afraid that this might change things between us or that you would think I cheated on you. I was scared to know that you might not want this” emphasizing ‘this’ by placing her hands on her abdomen, “when I want nothing more than to have this baby. Your baby.”
Max just continued to sit there, tears running down his cheeks. To say the least he was speechless. He had already accepted the fact that he would never father children. Now as he sat here, not only was he being told that what he thought was the truth wasn’t but also that the woman he loved more than life itself was carrying his child. He watched as Liz’ hopeful expression fell. “Please,” she pleaded, “please tell me you still want me and you want this child. Please, Max.” She fell to her knees then and cried in to her hands. Max wasted no time pulling her in to his arms. She hung on as if without Max she would die. “Hush, baby,” Max soothed as he ran a hand down her hair. “Liz, look at me.” After a moment she lifted a tear-stained face up to his. Tears were still running freely down his face and he smiled. “For so long I’ve thought that I could never have children and somewhere along the way, I had just grown to accept it. But never in all that time knowing did I ever grieve that loss until I fell in love with you.” He smiled and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “Not until then could I even imagine myself a father, Liz. Not even once. But that moment I saw you for the first time and you smiled, you stole my heart and with it every dream I thought was dead and buried came back to life. There could never be a time I wouldn’t want you.” He placed his hand on her still flat tummy. “As for this child, our child,” he corrected, “no child could be more loved or wanted than this one.” Max hugged her then and when he pulled back it was only so he could kiss her passionately for all the wonderful things she had brought in to his life. “I love you so much, Liz,” and before he could stop himself, he bent down and kissed her stomach. “I love you too, my little one. So much.” They held each for a long time afterwards just basking in their love and the life that their love had created. That’s how Michael and Maria found them in the garden later that afternoon. Still wrapped in each other’s arms rocking softly in one of the garden swings.
<center>“So she can compare notes with all those smart bastards and get even smarter and then take over the world, one ignorant moron at a time. And guess what, Kyle, they’re coming for you.”, </center>
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