Wow, I thought we were more caught up on posting than we are, but evidentally not. Anywhere, here is a bunch to catch up on. Hope ya all like it!
The Roads We Take
Sequel to: Where Do We Go From Here?
Summary: A decision has to be made when Kyle's dad gives him an offer.
Written By, Angelrose242000 and Roswell4Ever1
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
Part One—The Offer
Kyle Valenti had always looked up to his dad. Since he was a little kid he saw his dad to be this giant, this wonderful guy that was always, always looking to make Roswell a safer town and to be a great dad. He accomplished both as far as Kyle saw it. He was an excellent sheriff and a wonderful dad to him, growing up and now.
So when he went to him one Saturday at his and Maria’s house and in private told him that he was retiring and he wanted Kyle to be the next sheriff, Kyle stood initially stupefied.
He had spent the past hour telling Kyle how he thought he was ready for retirement and that Kyle would be a terrific new sheriff. All Kyle could do was stare, his body in shock. Jim Valenti said, “So what do you think?”
Kyle said, “What do I think? Dad…” He stood from the couch and said, “I…don’t know what to think. Me, the next sheriff of Roswell?”
Jim said with a confident smile, “Why not? I think you’d be great at it, Kyle. You have a big heart and you do care about seeing to it that everyone is safe.”
Kyle ran his hands agitatedly through his medium brown hair that had gone now to the nape of his neck and said, “I am in shock. Dad you’re gonna have to let me have this moment to digest what you’ve offered.” Eyeing him directly, honestly, with much emotion, Kyle said, “I never thought that I’d be the next sheriff. I guess I never saw anyone else being the sheriff.”
Jim laughed warmly over this and said, “You thought I’d be sheriff forever?” Kyle said, “Yeah. You’re good at it. It’s what you do, who you are. Growing up I’ve always seen my dad as the town sheriff. I guess I’m shaken.” He needed a beer, badly. He offered, “Would you like a beer?” Shrugging, Jim said, “Sure, why not. I…I’m hoping that I’ve not put too much on you, son. I know that it is a big deal and that you’ve just heard about it. You aren’t required to do it, Kyle. I just thought…I don’t know.” Pride came in, “I thought you would want to carry on as sheriff. But if you don’t, that is your choice. I’m not in any way going to push you in that position.” Jim’s confidence was dropping some. Maybe Kyle simply didn’t want the job.
Kyle walked back in the living room with two beers and handing dad one and opening his, he said, “I know.” Contemplating it, Kyle said, “If I leave the job I’m in now for Sheriff, who’s to say that Roswell will want me as the new sheriff? Doesn’t that have to elected by officials?”
Jim grinned over this and said, “Yeah, typically, but in a town the size of Roswell and with the connections, being that I went to school with all of them and they know you well, into account, I highly doubt that will be a question. You would be given the okay, Kyle. The question is, is it something you think you’d want?”
Kyle let out a deep breath, swallowed another gulp of beer and said, “How long do I have to think about it?” Jim said, “There really isn’t a time frame, Kyle.” Though his voice said he’d already spoken of retiring. Kyle picked up on it knowing his dad that well. Kyle grinned and said, “Anyone ever tell you that you are impetuous dad?” As Maria walked in, smiling at Kyle and Jim, grabbed her latest novel she was reading and left the room, Jim said, “Yeah well…it must be hereditary.”
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Liz hadn’t been able to leave her house for the last week. She kept playing that night over and over in her head knowing she did the right thing. He was trying to kill Michael and would have killed the rest of them without blinking an eye. But even knowing that, she was having trouble dealing with the fact that she single handedly killed her own dad. She still couldn’t figure out what happened. None of them would have ever guessed him to be an enemy. Least of all her. She lay in her bed where she had for the last week only getting up to go to the bathroom. The only reason she would eat was because it was crucial for the babies.
As soon as she fell back to sleep, Max covered her up and walked out into the hallway quietly closing the door. Walking downstairs, he found Isabel, Alex, Tess and Maria sitting on the couch. Sitting in the chair beside them, he cupped his face in his hands. Slowly rubbing his face, he put his hands back down and looked at the group. “I’m really worried about Liz. I know this is hard for her but her laying in that bed replaying that night isn’t good for her or the babies. I just wish there was something I could do for her to help get her out of this funk.”
“Well, maybe we can think of something. Anything.” Maria said, equally as concerned.
“I’ve racked my brain all week and can’t come up with anything.” Max replied. He was exhausted and stressed out. He couldn’t remember the last time he slept more than fifteen minutes. He was forcing himself to stay awake in the case that there would be more enemies after them. If anyone tried coming into his house, he was sure as hell going to protect his family.
Seeing the severe lack of sleep in her brother’s eyes, Isabel scratched her eyebrow and said “Max, go to bed. We are all here. If anyone tries anything they will have to get past us first. You aren’t going to do Liz, those babies or yourself any good when you’re too exhausted to stay awake.”
Alex nodded. “She’s right. Go get some sleep. We’ll try to think up ideas to help Liz. I understand you wanting to help her but you need to help yourself too. Go on man, get some rest.”
“No.” Max shook his head barely able to keep his eyes open. “I need to stay awake for Liz. I have to keep her safe.”
“Max, exactly what good are you going to do her if you pass out from sleep deprivation? Go to bed already. Maybe Alex will even read you a bedtime story.” She smiled trying to relax him a little.
“Alright already. No bedtime stories. I’m going but if Alex tries to tuck me in or read me Peter Pan, naptime will be over.”
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Kyle looked at his dad as they stood in the living room and after careful thought he said just as spontaneously, “Okay dad. Say I take this on where would I be trained? Maria has just started a new job as a manager at the mall. That would mean relocation…” or more to the point, not being near her at night and that was something Kyle quite simply didn’t’ want to think about. Talk about wasteland misery. He waited.
Jim picking up on this grinned and said, “You would be put in training…but I think it could be arranged for it to be held here, in Roswell. I’ve got enough strings I could pull to have it done here, have your superiors come in and put you through your training. Are you saying you want it?”
Kyle turned from the mantel in the room and grinning he said, “Yeah. I think I will.” Yeah, he thought, thinking of his Budda fantasies. There was a new Big Dog in Roswell now….
TBC...
The Roads We Take (UC, Teen to Mature) Book IV 4/4/05
Moderators: Anniepoo98, Itzstacie, truelovepooh, Erina, Forum Moderators
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Roswell4ever1
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Roswell4ever1
- Addicted Roswellian
- Posts: 294
- Joined: Sat Mar 13, 2004 12:15 am
- Contact:
“Who’s The Big Dog Now?”
By, Roswell4Ever1 and Angelrose242000
Summary: Kyle makes his decision. And some other stuff too!
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
Part Two—Sudden Surprises
Later that night…
Lying next to Maria in their full sized bed that night, Kyle touched her round lovely face and said, “My dad is retiring as sheriff.”
Maria showed surprise as she said, “Really? Why is he doing that?”
Kyle dropped his head back on the pillow and said with a shrug, “Beats me. I guess he’s getting tired. Wants a break. But the thing is…he’s asked me to take the job.”
Maria’s shock went even more so as she smiled and said, “What did you tell him?”
Kyle looked at Maria through his brown eyes and knew she would be supportive as he said, “At first I didn’t know what to tell him. I was utterly speechless.” Turning to face Maria Kyle said, “As a kid I sort of looked up to the idea, you know?” he grinned and said, “Wanting to be just like him, putting on his badge and pretending to be town sheriff when playing Cowboys and Indians with friends of mine.” Maria said, “Yeah. I did too. I put on my mom’s clothes and pretended to be Madonna. It was silly, I guess, but I wanted to beautiful as a little girl.” Kyle said earnestly, “You are beautiful, Maria.” Maria shrugged and stayed close as she said, “Well…” She had a hard time accepting compliments, certainly hearing she was beautiful. So she blushed and said, “I see what you are saying. So continue, continue. I want to hear details, Valenti.”
Kyle grinned largely as he said, “We’re sitting in the front room of the house, he and I. Suddenly he comes and asks me to take it on. I was struck in utter surprise. But when I thought about it, I decided to say yes.” Closing his eyes he asked the question he was most worrisome of hearing the answer to, “You think I made the right choice?”
Maria said with a bit of her old sarcasm, “Are you kidding?”
Kyle said, “No.”
Maria moved to his face and said her green eyes on his brown ones, “You would be wonderful at it, Kyle. I think this is great! Absolutely fantastic.”
Kyle was thrilled to hear Maria’s excitement. He said, “Yeah?” Maria said, “Yeah.” He pulled her close and kissed her lips, moving on top and continuing to kiss her. He said in jest, “Sheriff Kyle Valenti. I kinda like it.”
Maria said, “Me too. Man, my mom will not believe this.” They laughed together, both having heard the story of Amy DeLuca and her wayward ways in high school. It was soon forgotten though as Kyle and Maria spent the night together. At that moment all focus was on each other…
New York City…
A week later…
Tess sat in bed watching a re-run of M.A.S.H.. She had always had a mad crush on Hawkeye. He was so sexy and crazy. She watched the show as a teenager just to see him! But now, she had a better version of Hawkeye. A real hero that was right then getting her a huge bowl of chocolate ice cream with cherries on top. These days Tess moved around very little. She was huge in her pregnancy, at her ninth month, and ready to explode! She wanted to have the baby. They knew now that it would be a boy. The doctor’s told them a long time ago. Mr. W. was ecstatic, Tess thought in reflection, when finding out the news. He had all but jumped up and down—or at least that was Tess’s assumption as they were on the phone with him that day. But he was thrilled. Smiling, patting her stomach beneath her white lacy nightgown, Tess saw Alex coming into the room with the large bowl and smiling she said, “You remembered the cherries. Thank you, Alex.”
Alex handed her the bowl and sitting beside Tess he leaned across the bed and touching her face with his hand he kissed her lips tenderly. He said, “I would be a lousy husband if I forgot. I might get a bite or two if you don’t mind.”
Tess grinned and said, “I planned on sharing. So did you. You brought two spoons.”
Smiling slyly, Alex said, “Well…I figured…”
Tess urged his face back down and said, “You figured huh?” And kissed him again. He kissed her in return and they got comfy watching TV and eating ice cream.
Alex said, “I got off the phone with dad earlier. I guess Sheriff Valenti is retiring and Kyle is being appointed.”
While eating a bite of chocolate ice cream Tess held up a finger and swallowed then said, “Sheriff? Hmmm. He’d be good at it.” She smiled.
Alex said, “I think so too.” He pulled the blankets over them both and took a bite of his own. Then seeing ice cream on her lips he leaned over and licked it off and kissed her while he was at it. Tess smiled and kissed him back.
A commercial came on that Tess detested and so she looked around for the remote. Not seeing it next to them, she tried to sit up and reach across the bed for it. Wincing she said, “Oh…maybe I should let you get the remote.”
Alex eyed her in surprise and said, “Tess? You okay?”
Tess said, “Oh yeah. Just…” letting out a deep breath she said, “fat and ready to have the baby. Do you see it?”
Finding it on the table beside the bed, Alex changed the channel for a minute and focusing on Tess he said, “How long have you been feeling cramping?”
They had been to Lamas Class together throughout the pregnancy so they spoke together in these terms. Tess reached behind with her arm, bracing herself as she sat up against her pillow. She felt the weight of the baby in her back and it hurt, especially the past few months. Tonight it was worse. But she guessed it was just the reminder that he was going to be greeting them all shortly.
Tess said honestly, “Off and on for a few months. It wasn’t as bad as it is tonight, though…” She cringed at another pang and said, “Tonight it feels pretty bad.”
Alex said, “Maybe we should take a trip.”
Giving Alex a wide grin, Tess said, “I don’t think it’s time yet.”
Alex said, “Still. Even if they send us home, we’d know for sure. Come on.”
Shrugging, Tess threw on clothes and slippers and feeling Alex’s supportive arm around her waist she walked to the car with him. Like a bat out of hell Alex drove them to the hospital…
In minutes after the arrival, Tess was ushered into a room. The nurse was checking her vitals and putting an IV on her. Dr. Bellamy was there talking to both Alex and Tess and examining Tess. After only being there an hour, it was definite. Tess was in labor…
Alex placed the calls at eleven PM that night to Roswell….
Alex dialed straight home. Duane said he was on his way to the airport. Michael and Isabel and Amber were on their way too. Next came the call to Max and Liz, Kyle and Maria. It was late, very late, but everyone was up and awake as soon as they heard Alex’s voice and what was up. Hanging up at the hospital, Alex pushed his hands through his dark brown hair, concerned about Tess. He looked over at his wife and watched as she was examined yet again by the doctor. They’d been poking and prodding at her since Alex drove her up here. It was unreal. But Tess told him it was normal. She for the most part was completely relaxed about this. Alex was a basket case!
Four hours later, Duane landed in New York. He rode in a cab to the hospital and met Amy and the others that had also flown in immediately. He saw Alex and how he was pacing the room and said, “Hey Alex.” Alex looked at his dad and walked to him saying, “Dad.” They embraced and Alex went back to holding Tess’s hand and pacing the floor. Duane shook his head, proud of his son and nervous himself. He smiled at Tess and said, “How you doing?” Tess smiled despite the contractions and said breathy, “Fine…Alex why don’t you go take a walk for a few minutes? I’ll be perfectly fine.”
Alex shook his head at first—until he snapped at the nurse—then he said, “Okay. But if you need me…” Tess said, “I’ll always need you, but I’m fine for you to take a break. I’ll send someone if it changes in here.” She pointed to her stomach. Alex smiled and bending down he kissed Tess. She kissed him back.
Alex itched for a cigarette, but refrained. He didn’t want to smell like smoke when the baby came. So he instead walked to the lobby and put fifty cents into the machine and grabbed a Coke. Opening the can he took a drink and realized instantly that it wasn’t a Pepsi. Yuk! But it was better than nothing on his throat that was dry as sawdust.
Kyle walked over to Alex and said, “I was thinking of getting one myself.” He stuck change in and grabbed a Coke. His face showed the same icky expression, but like Alex, desperate times… He took his drink and walked with Alex to the next to empty private lobby. Sitting in the dim room across from each other, Kyle said, “So you excited?”
Alex grinned broadly and said, “Yeah. I’ll feel better when I know Tess is okay and the baby is too…but I’m happy.” Kyle smiled and said, “Alex Whitman as a dad. Ranks up there with Alex Whitman the attorney, doesn’t it?”
Laughing, Alex said, “Yep. I’m pretty fortunate. Blessed. I wish Amy wasn’t having to work so hard in school right next to her delivery. But she insists on continuing to go despite it. Tess did the same thing with her telecommuting at home. I couldn’t stop either of them.”
Kyle said, “Nope. I could see Maria being the same way.”
Alex asked, “Speaking of which, you are the only couple now not having a baby.”
Kyle grinned and said, “Yeah but that could change. Right now though I’m still pretty high from finding out I’m going to be the new sheriff.”
Alex said, “When do you start training for that?”
Kyle pondered in his red flannel and blue jeans and said, “Dad says I should be starting within the next couple of months. He has to get the paperwork going and get people down in Roswell to train me, so it will take a little while.”
Alex nodded, taking another drink of his rotgut Coke and then said, “Well I should get back in there.”
Just as they were headed back Liz met them, big and pregnant herself. Instantly concerned, Alex said, “Is Tess alright?”
Liz said, “She’s fine, Alex…I’m here to tell you that Amy is having contractions. We might have two babies born before it’s over.” She herself was having cramping off and on all day, but Liz didn’t want to say anything. Not yet.
The three walked back to the room and Alex immediately went to Tess’s side. Holding her hand he kissed her forehead, then her lips and said, “Let’s do it.”
Michael joked lightly, “That’s what got her in here, Alex.”
Isabel smacked Michael’s arm and said, “Michael! Be quiet.” She smiled at him though and put an arm around his waist. Alex grinned at Michael, knowing he was saying it in fun. Any other time Tess would have too, but she was in horrendous pain and all she could do was roll her eyes and say, “Oh ha, ha.” She was cranky and knew it, but right then it didn’t hold much worry in her. She was miserable and the contractions were picking up. Her body felt it and her face was sweaty. She held the sides of the mattress with fisted hands and knew that tonight was going to be it. She was having the baby tonight.
Meanwhile, Amber played with Liz now on the floor. Liz secretly knew she’d have to get up in a minute. It was hurting her back too much sitting this way, but right then she enjoyed seeing Amber’s smile. She looked so much like Isabel. Having her back again after the disappearance had a major dose of special treatment going to the little girl. Michael and Isabel watched her very closely, and didn’t go to bed at night without making triple sure she was safe in her room.
Duane went from Tess in one room to Amy in another. He stayed primarily with Amy because right then she needed him. Loving his daughter so much, Duane spoke gently to her and listened as the doctors and nurses spoke of what was going to happen tonight. She wasn’t as advanced as Tess, but she would have the baby too. So Duane sat next to Amy and prepared for several more hours…
Hours went by and everyone was tired, but they sat with Tess and Alex, they visited with Amy and Duane. Tess was now at the stage of calling out things and squeezing Alex’s hand, telling him she loved him. Amy was experiencing the beginnings of contractions as Tess was being told to push.
Liz as active babysitter for Amber smiled, playing blocks with her as she mentally counted…fifteen minutes apart…
Eleven PM turned into eight in the morning. Alex stayed by Tess’s side through all of it and held her hand tightly as she pushed the last time and watched with her in amazement as the baby’s head came out, then his shoulders. The doctor took him and announced his sex and washed him up. Cheers in the room were heard but only in the background. Alex looked at Tess, smiling with her and saying he loved her he kissed her sweetly.
Four hours later, Amy brought her little one into the world with her dad beside her bed. A girl, a beautiful girl, Duane thought. He kissed his daughter’s cheek and said, “Amy, she’s wonderful.” Smiling, Amy said exhaustively, “Thanks dad. Thanks for being here with me.” Duane hugged her and said, “I love you, Amy.”
Amy said, “I love you too, dad.”
Isabel walked over to Amber while everyone was cheering the arrivals and looking at Liz she said, “You okay, Liz?” Liz shook her head and said short of breath, “No…I…think I might be…” Isabel said with a loud laugh, “Wow! Three in one…no two days! Oh Max…” Turning to her brother she said, “Max…” Max turned to Isabel and said, “Yeah?” Isabel said, “I think you should come over here and help admit your wife. She’s in labor too.”
All but running to Liz, Max helped her to her feet and said, “Liz? It’s time?”
Liz said, “Oh yeah. It’s time.” So Max found a room for Liz and she in turn went into labor!
Evidently Liz had been in stages of labor all last night and so when she was set up in a room the doctor said it would be before the dinner hour when the twins were born. True to the word of the doctor, Liz delivered the twins….
TBC…
By, Roswell4Ever1 and Angelrose242000
Summary: Kyle makes his decision. And some other stuff too!
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
Part Two—Sudden Surprises
Later that night…
Lying next to Maria in their full sized bed that night, Kyle touched her round lovely face and said, “My dad is retiring as sheriff.”
Maria showed surprise as she said, “Really? Why is he doing that?”
Kyle dropped his head back on the pillow and said with a shrug, “Beats me. I guess he’s getting tired. Wants a break. But the thing is…he’s asked me to take the job.”
Maria’s shock went even more so as she smiled and said, “What did you tell him?”
Kyle looked at Maria through his brown eyes and knew she would be supportive as he said, “At first I didn’t know what to tell him. I was utterly speechless.” Turning to face Maria Kyle said, “As a kid I sort of looked up to the idea, you know?” he grinned and said, “Wanting to be just like him, putting on his badge and pretending to be town sheriff when playing Cowboys and Indians with friends of mine.” Maria said, “Yeah. I did too. I put on my mom’s clothes and pretended to be Madonna. It was silly, I guess, but I wanted to beautiful as a little girl.” Kyle said earnestly, “You are beautiful, Maria.” Maria shrugged and stayed close as she said, “Well…” She had a hard time accepting compliments, certainly hearing she was beautiful. So she blushed and said, “I see what you are saying. So continue, continue. I want to hear details, Valenti.”
Kyle grinned largely as he said, “We’re sitting in the front room of the house, he and I. Suddenly he comes and asks me to take it on. I was struck in utter surprise. But when I thought about it, I decided to say yes.” Closing his eyes he asked the question he was most worrisome of hearing the answer to, “You think I made the right choice?”
Maria said with a bit of her old sarcasm, “Are you kidding?”
Kyle said, “No.”
Maria moved to his face and said her green eyes on his brown ones, “You would be wonderful at it, Kyle. I think this is great! Absolutely fantastic.”
Kyle was thrilled to hear Maria’s excitement. He said, “Yeah?” Maria said, “Yeah.” He pulled her close and kissed her lips, moving on top and continuing to kiss her. He said in jest, “Sheriff Kyle Valenti. I kinda like it.”
Maria said, “Me too. Man, my mom will not believe this.” They laughed together, both having heard the story of Amy DeLuca and her wayward ways in high school. It was soon forgotten though as Kyle and Maria spent the night together. At that moment all focus was on each other…
New York City…
A week later…
Tess sat in bed watching a re-run of M.A.S.H.. She had always had a mad crush on Hawkeye. He was so sexy and crazy. She watched the show as a teenager just to see him! But now, she had a better version of Hawkeye. A real hero that was right then getting her a huge bowl of chocolate ice cream with cherries on top. These days Tess moved around very little. She was huge in her pregnancy, at her ninth month, and ready to explode! She wanted to have the baby. They knew now that it would be a boy. The doctor’s told them a long time ago. Mr. W. was ecstatic, Tess thought in reflection, when finding out the news. He had all but jumped up and down—or at least that was Tess’s assumption as they were on the phone with him that day. But he was thrilled. Smiling, patting her stomach beneath her white lacy nightgown, Tess saw Alex coming into the room with the large bowl and smiling she said, “You remembered the cherries. Thank you, Alex.”
Alex handed her the bowl and sitting beside Tess he leaned across the bed and touching her face with his hand he kissed her lips tenderly. He said, “I would be a lousy husband if I forgot. I might get a bite or two if you don’t mind.”
Tess grinned and said, “I planned on sharing. So did you. You brought two spoons.”
Smiling slyly, Alex said, “Well…I figured…”
Tess urged his face back down and said, “You figured huh?” And kissed him again. He kissed her in return and they got comfy watching TV and eating ice cream.
Alex said, “I got off the phone with dad earlier. I guess Sheriff Valenti is retiring and Kyle is being appointed.”
While eating a bite of chocolate ice cream Tess held up a finger and swallowed then said, “Sheriff? Hmmm. He’d be good at it.” She smiled.
Alex said, “I think so too.” He pulled the blankets over them both and took a bite of his own. Then seeing ice cream on her lips he leaned over and licked it off and kissed her while he was at it. Tess smiled and kissed him back.
A commercial came on that Tess detested and so she looked around for the remote. Not seeing it next to them, she tried to sit up and reach across the bed for it. Wincing she said, “Oh…maybe I should let you get the remote.”
Alex eyed her in surprise and said, “Tess? You okay?”
Tess said, “Oh yeah. Just…” letting out a deep breath she said, “fat and ready to have the baby. Do you see it?”
Finding it on the table beside the bed, Alex changed the channel for a minute and focusing on Tess he said, “How long have you been feeling cramping?”
They had been to Lamas Class together throughout the pregnancy so they spoke together in these terms. Tess reached behind with her arm, bracing herself as she sat up against her pillow. She felt the weight of the baby in her back and it hurt, especially the past few months. Tonight it was worse. But she guessed it was just the reminder that he was going to be greeting them all shortly.
Tess said honestly, “Off and on for a few months. It wasn’t as bad as it is tonight, though…” She cringed at another pang and said, “Tonight it feels pretty bad.”
Alex said, “Maybe we should take a trip.”
Giving Alex a wide grin, Tess said, “I don’t think it’s time yet.”
Alex said, “Still. Even if they send us home, we’d know for sure. Come on.”
Shrugging, Tess threw on clothes and slippers and feeling Alex’s supportive arm around her waist she walked to the car with him. Like a bat out of hell Alex drove them to the hospital…
In minutes after the arrival, Tess was ushered into a room. The nurse was checking her vitals and putting an IV on her. Dr. Bellamy was there talking to both Alex and Tess and examining Tess. After only being there an hour, it was definite. Tess was in labor…
Alex placed the calls at eleven PM that night to Roswell….
Alex dialed straight home. Duane said he was on his way to the airport. Michael and Isabel and Amber were on their way too. Next came the call to Max and Liz, Kyle and Maria. It was late, very late, but everyone was up and awake as soon as they heard Alex’s voice and what was up. Hanging up at the hospital, Alex pushed his hands through his dark brown hair, concerned about Tess. He looked over at his wife and watched as she was examined yet again by the doctor. They’d been poking and prodding at her since Alex drove her up here. It was unreal. But Tess told him it was normal. She for the most part was completely relaxed about this. Alex was a basket case!
Four hours later, Duane landed in New York. He rode in a cab to the hospital and met Amy and the others that had also flown in immediately. He saw Alex and how he was pacing the room and said, “Hey Alex.” Alex looked at his dad and walked to him saying, “Dad.” They embraced and Alex went back to holding Tess’s hand and pacing the floor. Duane shook his head, proud of his son and nervous himself. He smiled at Tess and said, “How you doing?” Tess smiled despite the contractions and said breathy, “Fine…Alex why don’t you go take a walk for a few minutes? I’ll be perfectly fine.”
Alex shook his head at first—until he snapped at the nurse—then he said, “Okay. But if you need me…” Tess said, “I’ll always need you, but I’m fine for you to take a break. I’ll send someone if it changes in here.” She pointed to her stomach. Alex smiled and bending down he kissed Tess. She kissed him back.
Alex itched for a cigarette, but refrained. He didn’t want to smell like smoke when the baby came. So he instead walked to the lobby and put fifty cents into the machine and grabbed a Coke. Opening the can he took a drink and realized instantly that it wasn’t a Pepsi. Yuk! But it was better than nothing on his throat that was dry as sawdust.
Kyle walked over to Alex and said, “I was thinking of getting one myself.” He stuck change in and grabbed a Coke. His face showed the same icky expression, but like Alex, desperate times… He took his drink and walked with Alex to the next to empty private lobby. Sitting in the dim room across from each other, Kyle said, “So you excited?”
Alex grinned broadly and said, “Yeah. I’ll feel better when I know Tess is okay and the baby is too…but I’m happy.” Kyle smiled and said, “Alex Whitman as a dad. Ranks up there with Alex Whitman the attorney, doesn’t it?”
Laughing, Alex said, “Yep. I’m pretty fortunate. Blessed. I wish Amy wasn’t having to work so hard in school right next to her delivery. But she insists on continuing to go despite it. Tess did the same thing with her telecommuting at home. I couldn’t stop either of them.”
Kyle said, “Nope. I could see Maria being the same way.”
Alex asked, “Speaking of which, you are the only couple now not having a baby.”
Kyle grinned and said, “Yeah but that could change. Right now though I’m still pretty high from finding out I’m going to be the new sheriff.”
Alex said, “When do you start training for that?”
Kyle pondered in his red flannel and blue jeans and said, “Dad says I should be starting within the next couple of months. He has to get the paperwork going and get people down in Roswell to train me, so it will take a little while.”
Alex nodded, taking another drink of his rotgut Coke and then said, “Well I should get back in there.”
Just as they were headed back Liz met them, big and pregnant herself. Instantly concerned, Alex said, “Is Tess alright?”
Liz said, “She’s fine, Alex…I’m here to tell you that Amy is having contractions. We might have two babies born before it’s over.” She herself was having cramping off and on all day, but Liz didn’t want to say anything. Not yet.
The three walked back to the room and Alex immediately went to Tess’s side. Holding her hand he kissed her forehead, then her lips and said, “Let’s do it.”
Michael joked lightly, “That’s what got her in here, Alex.”
Isabel smacked Michael’s arm and said, “Michael! Be quiet.” She smiled at him though and put an arm around his waist. Alex grinned at Michael, knowing he was saying it in fun. Any other time Tess would have too, but she was in horrendous pain and all she could do was roll her eyes and say, “Oh ha, ha.” She was cranky and knew it, but right then it didn’t hold much worry in her. She was miserable and the contractions were picking up. Her body felt it and her face was sweaty. She held the sides of the mattress with fisted hands and knew that tonight was going to be it. She was having the baby tonight.
Meanwhile, Amber played with Liz now on the floor. Liz secretly knew she’d have to get up in a minute. It was hurting her back too much sitting this way, but right then she enjoyed seeing Amber’s smile. She looked so much like Isabel. Having her back again after the disappearance had a major dose of special treatment going to the little girl. Michael and Isabel watched her very closely, and didn’t go to bed at night without making triple sure she was safe in her room.
Duane went from Tess in one room to Amy in another. He stayed primarily with Amy because right then she needed him. Loving his daughter so much, Duane spoke gently to her and listened as the doctors and nurses spoke of what was going to happen tonight. She wasn’t as advanced as Tess, but she would have the baby too. So Duane sat next to Amy and prepared for several more hours…
Hours went by and everyone was tired, but they sat with Tess and Alex, they visited with Amy and Duane. Tess was now at the stage of calling out things and squeezing Alex’s hand, telling him she loved him. Amy was experiencing the beginnings of contractions as Tess was being told to push.
Liz as active babysitter for Amber smiled, playing blocks with her as she mentally counted…fifteen minutes apart…
Eleven PM turned into eight in the morning. Alex stayed by Tess’s side through all of it and held her hand tightly as she pushed the last time and watched with her in amazement as the baby’s head came out, then his shoulders. The doctor took him and announced his sex and washed him up. Cheers in the room were heard but only in the background. Alex looked at Tess, smiling with her and saying he loved her he kissed her sweetly.
Four hours later, Amy brought her little one into the world with her dad beside her bed. A girl, a beautiful girl, Duane thought. He kissed his daughter’s cheek and said, “Amy, she’s wonderful.” Smiling, Amy said exhaustively, “Thanks dad. Thanks for being here with me.” Duane hugged her and said, “I love you, Amy.”
Amy said, “I love you too, dad.”
Isabel walked over to Amber while everyone was cheering the arrivals and looking at Liz she said, “You okay, Liz?” Liz shook her head and said short of breath, “No…I…think I might be…” Isabel said with a loud laugh, “Wow! Three in one…no two days! Oh Max…” Turning to her brother she said, “Max…” Max turned to Isabel and said, “Yeah?” Isabel said, “I think you should come over here and help admit your wife. She’s in labor too.”
All but running to Liz, Max helped her to her feet and said, “Liz? It’s time?”
Liz said, “Oh yeah. It’s time.” So Max found a room for Liz and she in turn went into labor!
Evidently Liz had been in stages of labor all last night and so when she was set up in a room the doctor said it would be before the dinner hour when the twins were born. True to the word of the doctor, Liz delivered the twins….
TBC…
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Roswell4ever1
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Title: The Roads We Take
“Who’s the Big Dog Now?”
Authors: Roswell4Ever1 and Angelrose242000
Rating: R
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
Summary: A new sheriff is about to make his mark in Roswell
Spoilers: None
Part Three: Dark Intentions
Liz Parker Evans sat in her living room floor and played with the twins, Max Jr. and Lizzy Ann, thinking over the past months since she had discovered her dad was the enemy. In the beginning it had been so very hard. She had caught herself staying in bed, not wanting to visit anyone, even her mother. She began to write again in her journal, as she had in high school. She’d become a regular As the World Turns fan—she saw Dusty Donovan and his bar a trusty place to dwell. Well…she grinned and thought, it didn’t’ help that he wore his black Lee jeans so well. He was hot, she thought, grinning now. Continuing on, she thought looking back. After her As the World Turns days she had realized that it was either become a part of the soap or get out, so she started spending an hour with her mother every day. Sharing feelings, often angry ones, and a lot of crying, they got each other through it. Now, as she played with the twins, Liz felt blessed to have the family and friends she had. She stood and said, “Come on, I’ll put you both in the play pen and get started on dinner. Daddy will be home soon.”
Picking up each baby on her arms she put them in the yellow playpen in the kitchen and started work in her yellow kitchen. Dinner tonight was Tuna Helper and she wanted to have it done—so she could catch up on her soaps!
That night Max came home and they had a nice dinner and the two watched Liz’s daily tapings of As the World Turns. It was a nightly show that the two enjoyed…
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Duane Whitman sat at his computer that Monday night in May, reading over his email. Duane was one who would read a message then read it again before replying. A lot of times he was just too busy to reply at the time. After going over it, he saw that the emails were requests for things he had already done for work, so he dismissed them and minimized his email.
Duane might put off emailing people back, but he kept up with Alex. Whenever Alex wrote, Duane wrote him back and because of this he knew that his son was doing very well at the law firm he worked for in New York. Often Duane wished he wasn’t. That way he would relocate to New Mexico and work with him in Roswell. It was selfish, he knew, and got onto himself for feeling that way, but he was his son. Duane missed Alex and Tess and his grandson, Alex Jr. He wished they could live around him and be able to visit more. But he knew it was their choice and accepted it. He had family that lived in LA and he sure didn’t’ want to move there, so he could understand choosing to live somewhere else. But he still missed them.
Turning to his granddaughter, who sat in her pink playpen, Duane smiled. He walked over to her and said, “How are you doing?” Picking up Miranda, Duane checked her and said, “Nope, you’re dry.” Seeing it wasn’t time for lunch yet, he put her back inside the playpen and resituated her toys so she could play. Five months old now, Miranda was into a lot of things and Duane had to keep a close eye on her. But he loved having her here. He wasn’t as lonely with her in the house. Duane knew it had been difficult on Amy to agree on him watching her while she went to school, but in the long run she would benefit and so would Miranda, Duane knew. Plus he got to see this pretty baby every day. That was worth it all. Changing to working at home and sending his work in by fax or email wasn’t hard, since the office he worked at had gone that way a lot and others had chosen to work from home.
Making his den his work office was easy too. Duane adjusted and liked the change. He had more of his own time to spend with Miranda and to be able to get out and go to the store if he needed to. It was much nicer.
In the past five months other things had happened too. Little things, that Duane had dismissed and gone on thinking nothing really about. Prank callers had started not long after Alex, Tess, and Amy left for New York.
Thinking it was kids having fun with his number, Duane ignored it. Finally sometime in March it stopped. Gas started disappearing on his car soon after. He had to buy a locking cap to stop that little mess. This was a small town, but history of pranksters and trouble had Duane able to see it and deal with it. To eventually forget about what he had to do and move on.
Raising Miranda, Amy’s daughter, while Amy attending her freshman year at NYU, Duane got into this routine and let what he had to do to get into the month of May pass on by.
In a couple weeks, Amy would be coming home for the summer and he couldn’t wait to see her. Alex and Tess were going to come with Amy and spend a few days visiting too. So he’d see Alex Jr. Smiling now, as he sat at his computer again, Duane got busy in Word, doing his deposition for his recent case…
Two Weeks Later…
Alex looked at Jason Newberry, his friend and fellow worker at the law firm and said, “I am out of here. Tess and I already have things ready. We’re on tonight’s flight out to New Mexico.”
Jason took the files he had borrowed and put them away as he said, “One of these days Alex you are going to realize that Roswell is your home.”
Alex gave Jason a grin and said, “Yeah, it was when I was a kid, going through school.”
Jason said, “Alex I hear more about that town than I do what you do here, in New York. I think you miss it, miss living there.”
Alex pushed the cabinet closed that held files he had put away, knowing he had talked about Roswell a lot to Jason. Jason was from Palm Beach and talked about it occasionally, but not near like Alex did Roswell. Not near as often.
Maybe he was homesick for the town. It was okay to be a little homesick, Alex told himself. He was still a full time lawyer working in New York and happily watched the ball drop every New Years with his pretty wife. He had his name here, in this city. Roswell held memories that weren’t all that great. No, he wasn’t missing living there. Not when he thought about the pain that Tess went through, the life he once lived when he was eighteen. History there was too deep, too full of memories of what he had done, said, experienced and put others through that he simply didn’t want to think about missing it. Homesick didn’t mean stupid. He was happy here, Alex thought strongly.
Alex walked back to his desk to grab his keys and jacket and said, “Maybe I do miss Roswell to a point. But I don’t regret moving here. Tess and I went to college here and this has become home to us. Roswell was just where we grew up.”
Jason grabbed his jacket and things and said, “I didn’t mean to shake you, Alex. Just thought I’d tell you what I think. That’s all. Have a safe flight home.”
Nodding, Alex said he would and headed to his car. He thought about what Jason said and his own feelings on the way to the house.
Dropping his things on the counter, Alex walked to Tess in the baby’s bedroom where she was changing his clothes before the trip. Tying up his shoes. Putting on his jacket. Smiling at her, Alex said, “Hey.”
Tess turned and smiled at him saying, “Alex. I packed up the things you forgot and have mine ready too. Say we’re ready when you are daddy.” She encouraged Alex Jr.
Alex Jr. merely smiled at his daddy, but Alex smiled largely and walked to him saying, “Hey big guy. Let’s go see your grandpa.”
Picking him up, Alex said, “The flight’s at seven, so we better go.”
Tess put on her mauve coat and said, “Ready.” He leaned down and kissed Tess saying, “Me too. Thank you, Tess, for everything.”
Tess noticed Alex’s emotions and said, “You’re welcome.” She helped him carry things to the car and buckled up Alex in the backseat in his car seat.
Climbing up front she sat next to Alex. As soon as he backed out of the drive she said, “I wonder if we should’ve picked up Amy and taken her with us.”
Alex said, “I tried. I called her from work today and she said she had some things to pack up before heading out, so for us to go. She’d see us there.”
Nodding, Tess said smiling, “Probably has to lock up the dorm room and get her things out for the summer. I remember those days.”
Alex said with meaning, “So do I.” They’d done it briefly, then got their own apartment. It was much, much nicer.
Alex drove down the road and thought about what Jason said earlier. What would Tess say if he asked her if he talked about it too much? Probably confirm it and smile saying he was a homesick idiot. Nicer than he did, but she’d say it. Alex refrained…
Getting a rental at the airport, Alex and Tess and Alex Jr. drove on home. Pulling into the driveway at six Tuesday morning, they parked. And sighed. All three were exhausted. Going from the plane in New York, to the one in Tennessee on this particular flight, then arriving in Roswell at five-thirty, none had slept and all were needing it. Until Alex stepped outside and saw the writing on his dad’s car window. He woke up then.
The vulgar comments about Alex and Tess made Alex look around and seeing no one open his car door and say to Tess, “Seems Dad has some jerks parading around here again.”
Rolling her eyes, Tess said, “Great.”
Grabbing a sleepy Alex Jr. Tess said, “How bad is it?”
Alex said, “Come here.” Tess walked around the car and stood next to Alex. The snide remarks were there in big letters. Tess grabbed a towel from the baby’s diaper bag and was about to wipe it off when Alex said, “This needs to be shown to the cops.”
Tess grinned at Alex and said, “Graffiti? They’d have to find who did it and there are a lot of kids who could have done it.”
Alex said, “I don’t want him seeing this. It knocks Amy too. I don’t’ want to see it.” Alex and Tess cleaned it off and grabbing their things and the baby they walked to the front door.
The door was open and glass was everywhere. Alex looked at Tess with worry and saw hers. He walked inside and said, “Dad? Dad you here?”
Weakly, Duane said, “Alex?”
Walking into the house, Alex and Tess saw the mess, the destruction. It had been broken into. Probably during the night. Alex rushed around items, the couch, chairs, and finally found his dad standing, braced.
Looking at him, Alex said, “Who the hell did this?”
Duane turned and showed his sleeplessness in his blue eyes as well as the blood that was on his right shoulder.
Alex reached for the phone and seeing it dead he reached for his cell, hoping it would work, and dialed the sheriff’s department. Kyle answered. Alex said, “Hey, this is Alex. Listen, my dad’s place has been broken into…and from the looks of this I’d say there was a fight. He’s been shot. Mind coming to take a look?”
Kyle said, “Nope. I’m on my way.”
Hanging up, Alex said, “We need to call an ambulance.”
Duane said, “In a bit. Right now I’m in shock and not noticing it.”
Alex helped his dad to the couch and said, “Good. So what happened?”
Duane looked at his grandson who was being held by his mother while he slept and he smiled. Looking at Alex and Tess, Duane told what happened.
“Liz had taken Miranda for the night so I stayed up and watched Letterman. I took my work with me to bed like I always do. Then dozed off around two. You know I’m a light sleeper, Alex.”
Remembering that very well, Alex said, “Yeah.”
Grinning for a moment, then getting serious again, Duane said, “I heard the break in. It sounded like more than one. It was. It was about four of them. I grabbed a bat from your bedroom, Alex, and headed downstairs. The place was dark but already a mess from the hoodlums. I heard them panicking because they knew I was up. I hollered out at them. One told the other to get the hell out and then that punk Amy dated…”
Tess said, “Troy.”
Nodding, Duane said, “Yes. He turned to me and shot me. By the time I could tell that he’d done it, he was laughing crookedly and leaving with his buddies. I was just shocked that he pulled it.”
Kyle pulled up in his squad car. Seeing it say Sheriff on the side, Alex said, “He finally the sheriff now?”
Nodding, Duane said, “For the past few months. He’s pretty good at it. People don’t like him giving tickets, but he does a good job.”
Alex looked at his dad and said, “I’m sorry, Dad.”
Duane shook his head and said, “It’s not your fault, Alex.”
Carrying her sleeping baby in her arms, Tess walked to the door and pulled it open, saying to Kyle, “Morning, Kyle.”
Kyle looked at the upheaval and said, “What the hell happened?”
Duane said, “You and Alex could be related.”
Kyle noticed the blood and called on his phone for the hospital and requested an ambulance be sent to the house. He dressed as his dad had, in casual blue jeans and a red flannel, but he wore the badge on his front breast and the cowboy hat his dad had always worn.
Within the hour, Kyle had men and women from the force at the house, following orders to find clues. He had spoken to Duane and gotten information about Troy and recalling the gang he had helped Alex fight, he wrote down other names. Knew at least what they were facing. Then he watched giving orders to the paramedics as they wheeled Mr. Whitman into the ambulance. Alex and Tess and the baby drove behind it, heading on to the hospital….
Alex drove down the road toward the hospital with a million things going through his mind. Mostly concern about his dad. Even though he knew his dad was shot in the arm, he still worried that poisoning could enter his system. Shock would wear off and he would be in pain. Alex didn’t want that. Speaking sullenly, Alex said, “I can’t believe this is happening. I thought it was over. I thought…I thought that when we had our dealings with Troy and his buddies that it would stop.”
Tess touched Alex’s shoulder with her hand and said softly, “It will, Alex. It will stop. Your dad is going to be fine. He’s strong. I’m just thankful it was only a shoulder wound. It would be scarier otherwise.” Seeing Alex shaking she said more concerned for Alex, “You okay, Alex?”
Alex was in a state of here but gone and said quietly, while watching the ambulance, following it, “No. I’m not okay, Tess.”
Tess said in an offer, “I can drive, Alex. If you want.”
Alex turned to Tess, saw her kind-heartedness and touching her face he said with a smile, “Nah. We’re almost there and I’m okay driving. Just…”
Tess said, “Worried. So am I.” Putting her head on his shoulder and holding his hand, Tess said, “So am I.”
Roswell’s hospital was a good-sized building. It was practically bottom to top shiny windows and had multiple floors to it. Walking inside was never nice though for it represented illness, sometimes death. Alex pulled the rental to a parking spot and parked it. Putting his hands over the steering wheel he lowered his face to it and said with a sigh, “I’ve got to pull it together. My dad’s going to need me.”
Tess smiled brightly at Alex and said, “You will be great, Alex. You were with me, when I was in here. You will be for your dad too.” Waiting a moment she said, “We should probably go inside.”
Nodding, Alex said, “Yep. Okay, let’s get the baby and head on in.”
Tess opened the back seat door and unbuckled Alex Jr. Picking him up and her diaper bag she said, “Alex…?”
Alex grabbed the bag, still off in another world it felt like, and said, “Sorry.” He carried it on his right shoulder while Tess held the baby.
As Alex and Tess started to walk across the sidewalk, toward the island they’d have to cross, Michael said, “Guys, wait up.” Turning, watching Alex and Tess watched as Michael and Isabel pushed the baby in a stroller and kept a close watch on Amber who walked in the middle.
Michael walked over to Alex and didn’t worry about how it looked, he hugged his friend and said, “I’m sorry, man.” Alex hugged him back and said, “Thanks.”
Isabel asked, “What happened, Alex?”
Alex shrugged and the group walked together toward the Inpatient Doors of the hospital, Alex trying to explain.
Michael saw that Alex wasn’t doing so well so he walked up to the front desk and asked about Duane Whitman. Finding out the information, he walked back to Alex and Tess and Isabel and the kids and said, “They’re in surgery right now, getting him ready. We might want to call around, let the others know what’s going on. Although in this town it shouldn’t take too long and they’ll be here anyway.”
Nodding, Isabel said, “It’s like a radar. Someone sees an ambulance and everyone knows what’s going on.”
Tess said with a smile, “It’s Roswell.”
Alex ran his hands through his hair and said, “I can’t go see him?”
Shaking his head, Michael said, “Not yet.”
Alex said, “I need to step outside then, get it together.”
Understanding, Michael said, “That’s cool. One of us will get you when we can see him.”
Alex nodded and looking at Tess he said, “I’ll be back.”
Tess said when he was gone, “I’ll make the phone calls…” Her voice was empty. Michael looked at Isabel and while grabbing Amber before she ran across the lobby, he said, “This is unbelievable.”
Isabel looked at Tess who juggled Alex Jr. on her hip and said, “Yeah, it sure is. I’m going to relieve Tess of the baby.” Michael grabbed Isabel’s hand and looking into her eyes he said, “I love you.” Smiling, Isabel said, “I love you too.” Michael leaned down and kissed Isabel briefly before she walked over, pushing the baby and offering to help Tess out.
Michael picked up Amber and said with a laugh, “You’re sitting with me, kiddo. Come on.” He sat with her on the lobby chair and said, “We have a little waiting to do and daddy needs you to stay near me where I can see you.” He sat her on the floor and watched as she played with the toys in the lobby. He watched her like a hawk, the kidnapping making him determined to know where his little girl was.
Less than twenty minutes later, Max, Liz, the twins, Maria, Jim Valenti and both Amy’s were there. As soon as they got wind of the break in and shooting they left their homes and sped to the hospital and arrived one after the other. Together, the entire group sat in the lobby waiting for word. Duane was in surgery and that always took awhile, that and recovery. Tess carried the baby on her hip again as she walked outside and met up with Alex.
Seeing Tess, Alex said, “Is it time to go in?”
Tess shook her head, her eyes tearing now some as she said, “Nope. Not yet. Alex I’m sorry.”
Alex said quietly, “Me too. I just can’t understand it. Why didn’t the punk come to our place? Why did he have to do this to my dad?”
Tess sat next to Alex and said, “I don’t know.” The tears fell as she said, “I don’t know Alex. But the sheriff is going to do some investigating, I’m sure and we will find out what’s going on.” Repositioning Alex Jr. and checking to see he was dry, Tess looked into her baby’s face and smiled saying, “We’ll get this done, won’t we?”
Alex knew he was being no help to Tess and said, “Here, I can take him.” Picking up his son, Alex looked at his jacket, hood and blue sweats outfit and smiling he said, “Look at you.” Smiling and giggling, Alex Jr. somehow made Alex feel better. He pulled him closer and held him tight saying, “Guess I should get back in there.” Holding Tess’s hand he helped her to her feet and said, “Thank you, Tess.”
Smiling, Tess grabbed Alex’s jacket and moving to her toes she said, “It’s going to be okay, Alex. Alright?”
Alex smiled at his wife and said, “Alright.” He kissed Tess and hugged her, as much as he could with Alex Jr. in her arms. Together, the three walked back inside the ER Lobby…
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Meanwhile…
Sheriff Kyle Valenti and his police officers who worked in his section in Roswell were scoping out Mr. Whitman’s house, looking for clues. Anything that might give information about the breakin. Teenage carelessness created clues and showed very quickly that it wouldn’t be all that hard bringing in Troy and his friends.
So as Alex and the group got Duane settled into the hospital room across town, Kyle worked efficiently taking photos and samplings so that they could say definitely yes it was Troy before taking the warrant over and booking the creep.
Seeing that someone broke in and that it was careless was the easy part. This job would take hours. Kyle and the police dropped their hats and dug in, knowing it was going to be an all day thing…
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Kyle was searching in the living room, near the shooting when his new deputies, Carinthia Stevens and Roy Bennen walked over. Stevens and Bennen were reluctant to take Kyle seriously. Mainly because he was about twenty years younger than they were and they had worked for his dad throughout their careers in the PD. Right then, however, Kyle needed their assistance in concretely proving it was Troy who was behind this. Personal conflicts or issues could wait another day.
Crossing his arms over his chest, Kyle said, “What have you found?”
Stevens said, “It appears Troy’s friend Pete Blankley left his ID behind. Here it is.” Handing it to Kyle to examine in a plastic baggie, Kyle nodded and said, “Good work. We can contact Mr. Blankley first. That will be your next assignment on this case, Stevens. Thanks.”
Stevens didn’t want to have to do this, she had other ideas of how they could take down the kids—going to their hangouts—but instead she shrugged and said, “Yes, sir.” She had no choice. He was the sheriff now.
Bennen stood slouchily with his balding head and fifty-five year old pouch half lurched forward, half sunk back against the wall. He grinned cockily and said, “Look we know that this is those same punks. Why don’t we just drive the squad car around town, find them and give em a night of cell time? Make them squirm a bit, then confess?”
Kyle said, “Because I run things by protocol and so will my team that works for me. Is that understood?” Kyle normally didn’t snap like that, but he was tired and felt snide looks every damn time this guy walked over to him to speak. It was getting on Kyle’s nerves. He already knew this was his first assignment, that his dad was the best at the job, would always be that way as far as Kyle saw it, but that didn’t mean Kyle couldn’t do a good job too. He would do his best as long as Roswell let him—or until Dad realized he missed it and wanted to come back.
By three in the afternoon, Kyle was drinking another can of Coke and grinning over the results. They had found through a lot of extensive teamwork that it was Troy Hilton and his friends. It became obvious when little things appeared in odd places that belonged to the gang. Rings, bandanas, articles that only that group would wear. He was on the phone with the next town over and was in the process of getting the warrant he needed. In the next couple of hours they would bring in the kids—kids not that much younger than Kyle was—and after getting them to confess, Kyle would write up his end of the deal. Then it would be just processing getting them in court and getting a sentencing going. Things were going well so far.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Duane Whitman sat up in the hospital bed they had put him in earlier that day. The bullet in his right shoulder was removed and he was in a clean blue hospital See-All gown. Looking at Alex who sat bouncing Alex Jr. on his knee, Duane asked, “So how are things going with the guys at work?”
Shrugging, Alex said, “They’re fine. Always pulling stunts and getting away with it,” grinning Alex added, “But they’re good.”
Duane nodded, smiling as he did and said, “I’m glad.”
Alex was dry mouthed but got out what he’d been thinking about since seeing his dad shot that morning at home, “We should have stayed here longer. I might have prevented this.”
Duane said, “Alex I may be recovering from a shot but I can still toss this pillow at you. Now stop it! It is absolutely in no way your fault.” Looking at Tess who walked in, Duane said, “How does he work like that?”
Tess said honestly, “He takes calming pills.”
Alex added, “I work around it when I’m at work. But you are my dad. This isn’t the same thing, dad.”
Dr. Kline, a perky blonde with a kind personality, walked in and said, “We did some ex-rays on you today, Mr. Whitman and everything looks good. You should be able to go home within the hour. What do you think about that?”
Relieved since he never had liked these places, Duane said, “I think that is wonderful, Doctor. Thanks.”
Dr. Kline mentioned one more test they were waiting on but otherwise everything looked great and there was no reason for him to stay longer. Other nurses and the radiologist stopped Alex and Tess in the hall asking how they were doing, how New York was for them. They spoke of old times since the radiologist named Rita Franklin was in their senior class. So the three carried on a nice conversation and learned how well she was doing too. When she left them, Alex said to Tess, “New York isn’t like this.”
Tess shook her head and putting an arm around Alex’s waist she said, “Definitely not. It’s sad, I think. People used to be like this everywhere.”
When Duane was getting checked out, Alex and Tess walked with the baby to the lounge downstairs and talked. Alex said, “Tess would I sound crazy if I told you I was a little homesick for Roswell?”
Shaking her head, Tess said with a smile, “No. You wouldn’t sound crazy, Alex. I miss it too, sometimes.”
Alex said, “Tess I talk to everyone about it like it’s still where we live. Jason picked on me about it before I left work last night.”
Tess picked up Alex Jr. and smiling at him, kissing his cheek she put him on her right hip and said, “Alex are you wanting to come back here?”
Alex looked at Tess and started to answer, then turned away and said, “I…I’m not sure. I like New York. It is where we went to school, it has history.”
Tess sat next to Alex at a white circular table and said, “But it isn’t home. Is it?”
Alex looked at Tess and said honestly, “No. It isn’t.” Pushing his hands over his face he said, “I feel I should have been here for my dad. I know he says I’m not at fault, I’m not responsible but Tess I feel responsible. Because I chose to go back to New York, dad was vulnerable. He could have been killed by that jerk.”
Tess touched Alex’s hand with hers and said, “But he wasn’t. You didn’t know that was going to happen. He didn’t know. It was unexpected, Alex.”
Nodding, Alex said, “I miss taking walks with you along the streets at night. In New York we can’t leave our house without weapons of protection. Here, for the most part, except for odd times like these, we used to be able to walk hand in hand without having to worry. What happened, Tess? Why did we leave?”
Tess tried to remember herself. College. Wanting to get out and face life together, life that was theirs. Not having to have mom or dad watching everything they were doing. Freedom and education, she guessed. That summed it up. Tess replied, “We were young. We wanted to go to NYU and not have our parents telling us what to do.”
Tess added, “We’ll need to do some checking on jobs and housing here. We can do that while here, I guess.” She smiled up at Alex.
Seeing what she was saying, Alex said, “I love you.”
Tess smiled through tears and said, “I love you too.” While holding Alex Jr. they held each other in an embrace of happiness.
Duane walked into the lobby dressed now in jeans and a navy sweatshirt saying, “Ready to head out, gang?”
Standing, Alex and Tess said, “You bet.”
Alex picked up his son and carrying him on his left shoulder he put his right arm around Tess’s shoulder and walked on out of the room. Meeting the others in the lobby, Alex walked out of Roswell Hospital with his dad, wife, and child—and with his best friends.
Kyle and his deputies carried a warrant to the pothole hangout that Troy stayed at and showing it to them, they took all four kids into the police station. It didn’t take much before his so-called supporters caved and turned him in too. None of them wanted an hour in jail. But they got it. Or would, Kyle told himself, if he could help it. They had harmed someone, therefore it would be put into the courtroom and at the very least the one responsible for pulling the trigger would answer for it. There was a new sheriff in town and his name was Kyle Valenti…
TBC…
“Who’s the Big Dog Now?”
Authors: Roswell4Ever1 and Angelrose242000
Rating: R
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
Summary: A new sheriff is about to make his mark in Roswell
Spoilers: None
Part Three: Dark Intentions
Liz Parker Evans sat in her living room floor and played with the twins, Max Jr. and Lizzy Ann, thinking over the past months since she had discovered her dad was the enemy. In the beginning it had been so very hard. She had caught herself staying in bed, not wanting to visit anyone, even her mother. She began to write again in her journal, as she had in high school. She’d become a regular As the World Turns fan—she saw Dusty Donovan and his bar a trusty place to dwell. Well…she grinned and thought, it didn’t’ help that he wore his black Lee jeans so well. He was hot, she thought, grinning now. Continuing on, she thought looking back. After her As the World Turns days she had realized that it was either become a part of the soap or get out, so she started spending an hour with her mother every day. Sharing feelings, often angry ones, and a lot of crying, they got each other through it. Now, as she played with the twins, Liz felt blessed to have the family and friends she had. She stood and said, “Come on, I’ll put you both in the play pen and get started on dinner. Daddy will be home soon.”
Picking up each baby on her arms she put them in the yellow playpen in the kitchen and started work in her yellow kitchen. Dinner tonight was Tuna Helper and she wanted to have it done—so she could catch up on her soaps!
That night Max came home and they had a nice dinner and the two watched Liz’s daily tapings of As the World Turns. It was a nightly show that the two enjoyed…
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Duane Whitman sat at his computer that Monday night in May, reading over his email. Duane was one who would read a message then read it again before replying. A lot of times he was just too busy to reply at the time. After going over it, he saw that the emails were requests for things he had already done for work, so he dismissed them and minimized his email.
Duane might put off emailing people back, but he kept up with Alex. Whenever Alex wrote, Duane wrote him back and because of this he knew that his son was doing very well at the law firm he worked for in New York. Often Duane wished he wasn’t. That way he would relocate to New Mexico and work with him in Roswell. It was selfish, he knew, and got onto himself for feeling that way, but he was his son. Duane missed Alex and Tess and his grandson, Alex Jr. He wished they could live around him and be able to visit more. But he knew it was their choice and accepted it. He had family that lived in LA and he sure didn’t’ want to move there, so he could understand choosing to live somewhere else. But he still missed them.
Turning to his granddaughter, who sat in her pink playpen, Duane smiled. He walked over to her and said, “How are you doing?” Picking up Miranda, Duane checked her and said, “Nope, you’re dry.” Seeing it wasn’t time for lunch yet, he put her back inside the playpen and resituated her toys so she could play. Five months old now, Miranda was into a lot of things and Duane had to keep a close eye on her. But he loved having her here. He wasn’t as lonely with her in the house. Duane knew it had been difficult on Amy to agree on him watching her while she went to school, but in the long run she would benefit and so would Miranda, Duane knew. Plus he got to see this pretty baby every day. That was worth it all. Changing to working at home and sending his work in by fax or email wasn’t hard, since the office he worked at had gone that way a lot and others had chosen to work from home.
Making his den his work office was easy too. Duane adjusted and liked the change. He had more of his own time to spend with Miranda and to be able to get out and go to the store if he needed to. It was much nicer.
In the past five months other things had happened too. Little things, that Duane had dismissed and gone on thinking nothing really about. Prank callers had started not long after Alex, Tess, and Amy left for New York.
Thinking it was kids having fun with his number, Duane ignored it. Finally sometime in March it stopped. Gas started disappearing on his car soon after. He had to buy a locking cap to stop that little mess. This was a small town, but history of pranksters and trouble had Duane able to see it and deal with it. To eventually forget about what he had to do and move on.
Raising Miranda, Amy’s daughter, while Amy attending her freshman year at NYU, Duane got into this routine and let what he had to do to get into the month of May pass on by.
In a couple weeks, Amy would be coming home for the summer and he couldn’t wait to see her. Alex and Tess were going to come with Amy and spend a few days visiting too. So he’d see Alex Jr. Smiling now, as he sat at his computer again, Duane got busy in Word, doing his deposition for his recent case…
Two Weeks Later…
Alex looked at Jason Newberry, his friend and fellow worker at the law firm and said, “I am out of here. Tess and I already have things ready. We’re on tonight’s flight out to New Mexico.”
Jason took the files he had borrowed and put them away as he said, “One of these days Alex you are going to realize that Roswell is your home.”
Alex gave Jason a grin and said, “Yeah, it was when I was a kid, going through school.”
Jason said, “Alex I hear more about that town than I do what you do here, in New York. I think you miss it, miss living there.”
Alex pushed the cabinet closed that held files he had put away, knowing he had talked about Roswell a lot to Jason. Jason was from Palm Beach and talked about it occasionally, but not near like Alex did Roswell. Not near as often.
Maybe he was homesick for the town. It was okay to be a little homesick, Alex told himself. He was still a full time lawyer working in New York and happily watched the ball drop every New Years with his pretty wife. He had his name here, in this city. Roswell held memories that weren’t all that great. No, he wasn’t missing living there. Not when he thought about the pain that Tess went through, the life he once lived when he was eighteen. History there was too deep, too full of memories of what he had done, said, experienced and put others through that he simply didn’t want to think about missing it. Homesick didn’t mean stupid. He was happy here, Alex thought strongly.
Alex walked back to his desk to grab his keys and jacket and said, “Maybe I do miss Roswell to a point. But I don’t regret moving here. Tess and I went to college here and this has become home to us. Roswell was just where we grew up.”
Jason grabbed his jacket and things and said, “I didn’t mean to shake you, Alex. Just thought I’d tell you what I think. That’s all. Have a safe flight home.”
Nodding, Alex said he would and headed to his car. He thought about what Jason said and his own feelings on the way to the house.
Dropping his things on the counter, Alex walked to Tess in the baby’s bedroom where she was changing his clothes before the trip. Tying up his shoes. Putting on his jacket. Smiling at her, Alex said, “Hey.”
Tess turned and smiled at him saying, “Alex. I packed up the things you forgot and have mine ready too. Say we’re ready when you are daddy.” She encouraged Alex Jr.
Alex Jr. merely smiled at his daddy, but Alex smiled largely and walked to him saying, “Hey big guy. Let’s go see your grandpa.”
Picking him up, Alex said, “The flight’s at seven, so we better go.”
Tess put on her mauve coat and said, “Ready.” He leaned down and kissed Tess saying, “Me too. Thank you, Tess, for everything.”
Tess noticed Alex’s emotions and said, “You’re welcome.” She helped him carry things to the car and buckled up Alex in the backseat in his car seat.
Climbing up front she sat next to Alex. As soon as he backed out of the drive she said, “I wonder if we should’ve picked up Amy and taken her with us.”
Alex said, “I tried. I called her from work today and she said she had some things to pack up before heading out, so for us to go. She’d see us there.”
Nodding, Tess said smiling, “Probably has to lock up the dorm room and get her things out for the summer. I remember those days.”
Alex said with meaning, “So do I.” They’d done it briefly, then got their own apartment. It was much, much nicer.
Alex drove down the road and thought about what Jason said earlier. What would Tess say if he asked her if he talked about it too much? Probably confirm it and smile saying he was a homesick idiot. Nicer than he did, but she’d say it. Alex refrained…
Getting a rental at the airport, Alex and Tess and Alex Jr. drove on home. Pulling into the driveway at six Tuesday morning, they parked. And sighed. All three were exhausted. Going from the plane in New York, to the one in Tennessee on this particular flight, then arriving in Roswell at five-thirty, none had slept and all were needing it. Until Alex stepped outside and saw the writing on his dad’s car window. He woke up then.
The vulgar comments about Alex and Tess made Alex look around and seeing no one open his car door and say to Tess, “Seems Dad has some jerks parading around here again.”
Rolling her eyes, Tess said, “Great.”
Grabbing a sleepy Alex Jr. Tess said, “How bad is it?”
Alex said, “Come here.” Tess walked around the car and stood next to Alex. The snide remarks were there in big letters. Tess grabbed a towel from the baby’s diaper bag and was about to wipe it off when Alex said, “This needs to be shown to the cops.”
Tess grinned at Alex and said, “Graffiti? They’d have to find who did it and there are a lot of kids who could have done it.”
Alex said, “I don’t want him seeing this. It knocks Amy too. I don’t’ want to see it.” Alex and Tess cleaned it off and grabbing their things and the baby they walked to the front door.
The door was open and glass was everywhere. Alex looked at Tess with worry and saw hers. He walked inside and said, “Dad? Dad you here?”
Weakly, Duane said, “Alex?”
Walking into the house, Alex and Tess saw the mess, the destruction. It had been broken into. Probably during the night. Alex rushed around items, the couch, chairs, and finally found his dad standing, braced.
Looking at him, Alex said, “Who the hell did this?”
Duane turned and showed his sleeplessness in his blue eyes as well as the blood that was on his right shoulder.
Alex reached for the phone and seeing it dead he reached for his cell, hoping it would work, and dialed the sheriff’s department. Kyle answered. Alex said, “Hey, this is Alex. Listen, my dad’s place has been broken into…and from the looks of this I’d say there was a fight. He’s been shot. Mind coming to take a look?”
Kyle said, “Nope. I’m on my way.”
Hanging up, Alex said, “We need to call an ambulance.”
Duane said, “In a bit. Right now I’m in shock and not noticing it.”
Alex helped his dad to the couch and said, “Good. So what happened?”
Duane looked at his grandson who was being held by his mother while he slept and he smiled. Looking at Alex and Tess, Duane told what happened.
“Liz had taken Miranda for the night so I stayed up and watched Letterman. I took my work with me to bed like I always do. Then dozed off around two. You know I’m a light sleeper, Alex.”
Remembering that very well, Alex said, “Yeah.”
Grinning for a moment, then getting serious again, Duane said, “I heard the break in. It sounded like more than one. It was. It was about four of them. I grabbed a bat from your bedroom, Alex, and headed downstairs. The place was dark but already a mess from the hoodlums. I heard them panicking because they knew I was up. I hollered out at them. One told the other to get the hell out and then that punk Amy dated…”
Tess said, “Troy.”
Nodding, Duane said, “Yes. He turned to me and shot me. By the time I could tell that he’d done it, he was laughing crookedly and leaving with his buddies. I was just shocked that he pulled it.”
Kyle pulled up in his squad car. Seeing it say Sheriff on the side, Alex said, “He finally the sheriff now?”
Nodding, Duane said, “For the past few months. He’s pretty good at it. People don’t like him giving tickets, but he does a good job.”
Alex looked at his dad and said, “I’m sorry, Dad.”
Duane shook his head and said, “It’s not your fault, Alex.”
Carrying her sleeping baby in her arms, Tess walked to the door and pulled it open, saying to Kyle, “Morning, Kyle.”
Kyle looked at the upheaval and said, “What the hell happened?”
Duane said, “You and Alex could be related.”
Kyle noticed the blood and called on his phone for the hospital and requested an ambulance be sent to the house. He dressed as his dad had, in casual blue jeans and a red flannel, but he wore the badge on his front breast and the cowboy hat his dad had always worn.
Within the hour, Kyle had men and women from the force at the house, following orders to find clues. He had spoken to Duane and gotten information about Troy and recalling the gang he had helped Alex fight, he wrote down other names. Knew at least what they were facing. Then he watched giving orders to the paramedics as they wheeled Mr. Whitman into the ambulance. Alex and Tess and the baby drove behind it, heading on to the hospital….
Alex drove down the road toward the hospital with a million things going through his mind. Mostly concern about his dad. Even though he knew his dad was shot in the arm, he still worried that poisoning could enter his system. Shock would wear off and he would be in pain. Alex didn’t want that. Speaking sullenly, Alex said, “I can’t believe this is happening. I thought it was over. I thought…I thought that when we had our dealings with Troy and his buddies that it would stop.”
Tess touched Alex’s shoulder with her hand and said softly, “It will, Alex. It will stop. Your dad is going to be fine. He’s strong. I’m just thankful it was only a shoulder wound. It would be scarier otherwise.” Seeing Alex shaking she said more concerned for Alex, “You okay, Alex?”
Alex was in a state of here but gone and said quietly, while watching the ambulance, following it, “No. I’m not okay, Tess.”
Tess said in an offer, “I can drive, Alex. If you want.”
Alex turned to Tess, saw her kind-heartedness and touching her face he said with a smile, “Nah. We’re almost there and I’m okay driving. Just…”
Tess said, “Worried. So am I.” Putting her head on his shoulder and holding his hand, Tess said, “So am I.”
Roswell’s hospital was a good-sized building. It was practically bottom to top shiny windows and had multiple floors to it. Walking inside was never nice though for it represented illness, sometimes death. Alex pulled the rental to a parking spot and parked it. Putting his hands over the steering wheel he lowered his face to it and said with a sigh, “I’ve got to pull it together. My dad’s going to need me.”
Tess smiled brightly at Alex and said, “You will be great, Alex. You were with me, when I was in here. You will be for your dad too.” Waiting a moment she said, “We should probably go inside.”
Nodding, Alex said, “Yep. Okay, let’s get the baby and head on in.”
Tess opened the back seat door and unbuckled Alex Jr. Picking him up and her diaper bag she said, “Alex…?”
Alex grabbed the bag, still off in another world it felt like, and said, “Sorry.” He carried it on his right shoulder while Tess held the baby.
As Alex and Tess started to walk across the sidewalk, toward the island they’d have to cross, Michael said, “Guys, wait up.” Turning, watching Alex and Tess watched as Michael and Isabel pushed the baby in a stroller and kept a close watch on Amber who walked in the middle.
Michael walked over to Alex and didn’t worry about how it looked, he hugged his friend and said, “I’m sorry, man.” Alex hugged him back and said, “Thanks.”
Isabel asked, “What happened, Alex?”
Alex shrugged and the group walked together toward the Inpatient Doors of the hospital, Alex trying to explain.
Michael saw that Alex wasn’t doing so well so he walked up to the front desk and asked about Duane Whitman. Finding out the information, he walked back to Alex and Tess and Isabel and the kids and said, “They’re in surgery right now, getting him ready. We might want to call around, let the others know what’s going on. Although in this town it shouldn’t take too long and they’ll be here anyway.”
Nodding, Isabel said, “It’s like a radar. Someone sees an ambulance and everyone knows what’s going on.”
Tess said with a smile, “It’s Roswell.”
Alex ran his hands through his hair and said, “I can’t go see him?”
Shaking his head, Michael said, “Not yet.”
Alex said, “I need to step outside then, get it together.”
Understanding, Michael said, “That’s cool. One of us will get you when we can see him.”
Alex nodded and looking at Tess he said, “I’ll be back.”
Tess said when he was gone, “I’ll make the phone calls…” Her voice was empty. Michael looked at Isabel and while grabbing Amber before she ran across the lobby, he said, “This is unbelievable.”
Isabel looked at Tess who juggled Alex Jr. on her hip and said, “Yeah, it sure is. I’m going to relieve Tess of the baby.” Michael grabbed Isabel’s hand and looking into her eyes he said, “I love you.” Smiling, Isabel said, “I love you too.” Michael leaned down and kissed Isabel briefly before she walked over, pushing the baby and offering to help Tess out.
Michael picked up Amber and said with a laugh, “You’re sitting with me, kiddo. Come on.” He sat with her on the lobby chair and said, “We have a little waiting to do and daddy needs you to stay near me where I can see you.” He sat her on the floor and watched as she played with the toys in the lobby. He watched her like a hawk, the kidnapping making him determined to know where his little girl was.
Less than twenty minutes later, Max, Liz, the twins, Maria, Jim Valenti and both Amy’s were there. As soon as they got wind of the break in and shooting they left their homes and sped to the hospital and arrived one after the other. Together, the entire group sat in the lobby waiting for word. Duane was in surgery and that always took awhile, that and recovery. Tess carried the baby on her hip again as she walked outside and met up with Alex.
Seeing Tess, Alex said, “Is it time to go in?”
Tess shook her head, her eyes tearing now some as she said, “Nope. Not yet. Alex I’m sorry.”
Alex said quietly, “Me too. I just can’t understand it. Why didn’t the punk come to our place? Why did he have to do this to my dad?”
Tess sat next to Alex and said, “I don’t know.” The tears fell as she said, “I don’t know Alex. But the sheriff is going to do some investigating, I’m sure and we will find out what’s going on.” Repositioning Alex Jr. and checking to see he was dry, Tess looked into her baby’s face and smiled saying, “We’ll get this done, won’t we?”
Alex knew he was being no help to Tess and said, “Here, I can take him.” Picking up his son, Alex looked at his jacket, hood and blue sweats outfit and smiling he said, “Look at you.” Smiling and giggling, Alex Jr. somehow made Alex feel better. He pulled him closer and held him tight saying, “Guess I should get back in there.” Holding Tess’s hand he helped her to her feet and said, “Thank you, Tess.”
Smiling, Tess grabbed Alex’s jacket and moving to her toes she said, “It’s going to be okay, Alex. Alright?”
Alex smiled at his wife and said, “Alright.” He kissed Tess and hugged her, as much as he could with Alex Jr. in her arms. Together, the three walked back inside the ER Lobby…
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Meanwhile…
Sheriff Kyle Valenti and his police officers who worked in his section in Roswell were scoping out Mr. Whitman’s house, looking for clues. Anything that might give information about the breakin. Teenage carelessness created clues and showed very quickly that it wouldn’t be all that hard bringing in Troy and his friends.
So as Alex and the group got Duane settled into the hospital room across town, Kyle worked efficiently taking photos and samplings so that they could say definitely yes it was Troy before taking the warrant over and booking the creep.
Seeing that someone broke in and that it was careless was the easy part. This job would take hours. Kyle and the police dropped their hats and dug in, knowing it was going to be an all day thing…
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Kyle was searching in the living room, near the shooting when his new deputies, Carinthia Stevens and Roy Bennen walked over. Stevens and Bennen were reluctant to take Kyle seriously. Mainly because he was about twenty years younger than they were and they had worked for his dad throughout their careers in the PD. Right then, however, Kyle needed their assistance in concretely proving it was Troy who was behind this. Personal conflicts or issues could wait another day.
Crossing his arms over his chest, Kyle said, “What have you found?”
Stevens said, “It appears Troy’s friend Pete Blankley left his ID behind. Here it is.” Handing it to Kyle to examine in a plastic baggie, Kyle nodded and said, “Good work. We can contact Mr. Blankley first. That will be your next assignment on this case, Stevens. Thanks.”
Stevens didn’t want to have to do this, she had other ideas of how they could take down the kids—going to their hangouts—but instead she shrugged and said, “Yes, sir.” She had no choice. He was the sheriff now.
Bennen stood slouchily with his balding head and fifty-five year old pouch half lurched forward, half sunk back against the wall. He grinned cockily and said, “Look we know that this is those same punks. Why don’t we just drive the squad car around town, find them and give em a night of cell time? Make them squirm a bit, then confess?”
Kyle said, “Because I run things by protocol and so will my team that works for me. Is that understood?” Kyle normally didn’t snap like that, but he was tired and felt snide looks every damn time this guy walked over to him to speak. It was getting on Kyle’s nerves. He already knew this was his first assignment, that his dad was the best at the job, would always be that way as far as Kyle saw it, but that didn’t mean Kyle couldn’t do a good job too. He would do his best as long as Roswell let him—or until Dad realized he missed it and wanted to come back.
By three in the afternoon, Kyle was drinking another can of Coke and grinning over the results. They had found through a lot of extensive teamwork that it was Troy Hilton and his friends. It became obvious when little things appeared in odd places that belonged to the gang. Rings, bandanas, articles that only that group would wear. He was on the phone with the next town over and was in the process of getting the warrant he needed. In the next couple of hours they would bring in the kids—kids not that much younger than Kyle was—and after getting them to confess, Kyle would write up his end of the deal. Then it would be just processing getting them in court and getting a sentencing going. Things were going well so far.
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Duane Whitman sat up in the hospital bed they had put him in earlier that day. The bullet in his right shoulder was removed and he was in a clean blue hospital See-All gown. Looking at Alex who sat bouncing Alex Jr. on his knee, Duane asked, “So how are things going with the guys at work?”
Shrugging, Alex said, “They’re fine. Always pulling stunts and getting away with it,” grinning Alex added, “But they’re good.”
Duane nodded, smiling as he did and said, “I’m glad.”
Alex was dry mouthed but got out what he’d been thinking about since seeing his dad shot that morning at home, “We should have stayed here longer. I might have prevented this.”
Duane said, “Alex I may be recovering from a shot but I can still toss this pillow at you. Now stop it! It is absolutely in no way your fault.” Looking at Tess who walked in, Duane said, “How does he work like that?”
Tess said honestly, “He takes calming pills.”
Alex added, “I work around it when I’m at work. But you are my dad. This isn’t the same thing, dad.”
Dr. Kline, a perky blonde with a kind personality, walked in and said, “We did some ex-rays on you today, Mr. Whitman and everything looks good. You should be able to go home within the hour. What do you think about that?”
Relieved since he never had liked these places, Duane said, “I think that is wonderful, Doctor. Thanks.”
Dr. Kline mentioned one more test they were waiting on but otherwise everything looked great and there was no reason for him to stay longer. Other nurses and the radiologist stopped Alex and Tess in the hall asking how they were doing, how New York was for them. They spoke of old times since the radiologist named Rita Franklin was in their senior class. So the three carried on a nice conversation and learned how well she was doing too. When she left them, Alex said to Tess, “New York isn’t like this.”
Tess shook her head and putting an arm around Alex’s waist she said, “Definitely not. It’s sad, I think. People used to be like this everywhere.”
When Duane was getting checked out, Alex and Tess walked with the baby to the lounge downstairs and talked. Alex said, “Tess would I sound crazy if I told you I was a little homesick for Roswell?”
Shaking her head, Tess said with a smile, “No. You wouldn’t sound crazy, Alex. I miss it too, sometimes.”
Alex said, “Tess I talk to everyone about it like it’s still where we live. Jason picked on me about it before I left work last night.”
Tess picked up Alex Jr. and smiling at him, kissing his cheek she put him on her right hip and said, “Alex are you wanting to come back here?”
Alex looked at Tess and started to answer, then turned away and said, “I…I’m not sure. I like New York. It is where we went to school, it has history.”
Tess sat next to Alex at a white circular table and said, “But it isn’t home. Is it?”
Alex looked at Tess and said honestly, “No. It isn’t.” Pushing his hands over his face he said, “I feel I should have been here for my dad. I know he says I’m not at fault, I’m not responsible but Tess I feel responsible. Because I chose to go back to New York, dad was vulnerable. He could have been killed by that jerk.”
Tess touched Alex’s hand with hers and said, “But he wasn’t. You didn’t know that was going to happen. He didn’t know. It was unexpected, Alex.”
Nodding, Alex said, “I miss taking walks with you along the streets at night. In New York we can’t leave our house without weapons of protection. Here, for the most part, except for odd times like these, we used to be able to walk hand in hand without having to worry. What happened, Tess? Why did we leave?”
Tess tried to remember herself. College. Wanting to get out and face life together, life that was theirs. Not having to have mom or dad watching everything they were doing. Freedom and education, she guessed. That summed it up. Tess replied, “We were young. We wanted to go to NYU and not have our parents telling us what to do.”
Tess added, “We’ll need to do some checking on jobs and housing here. We can do that while here, I guess.” She smiled up at Alex.
Seeing what she was saying, Alex said, “I love you.”
Tess smiled through tears and said, “I love you too.” While holding Alex Jr. they held each other in an embrace of happiness.
Duane walked into the lobby dressed now in jeans and a navy sweatshirt saying, “Ready to head out, gang?”
Standing, Alex and Tess said, “You bet.”
Alex picked up his son and carrying him on his left shoulder he put his right arm around Tess’s shoulder and walked on out of the room. Meeting the others in the lobby, Alex walked out of Roswell Hospital with his dad, wife, and child—and with his best friends.
Kyle and his deputies carried a warrant to the pothole hangout that Troy stayed at and showing it to them, they took all four kids into the police station. It didn’t take much before his so-called supporters caved and turned him in too. None of them wanted an hour in jail. But they got it. Or would, Kyle told himself, if he could help it. They had harmed someone, therefore it would be put into the courtroom and at the very least the one responsible for pulling the trigger would answer for it. There was a new sheriff in town and his name was Kyle Valenti…
TBC…
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Roswell4ever1
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The Roads We Take
Book Four—Into the Unknown
By, Roswell4Ever1 and Angie
Rating: MATURE to ADULT
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
Summary: A lot is about to happen.
Spoilers: None!
Part One—Spontaneous Combustion…
June 6, 2009
Max awoke that Monday morning and dressed for work. Liz was sound asleep in bed, covered only by the plaid blankets over her slender body, and she was smiling. He smiled at her. They had made love all last night and stopped only when the twins woke up crying from bad dreams. Right back in each other’s arms afterward, they continued on!
Walking to her as he always did, Max smiled and said just above a whisper, “Liz? Liz?”
Liz opened her eyes and smiled with love into Max’s brown eyes. She said, “Morning Max.”
Max said, “I’m getting ready to go in to work. The twins are still asleep. I just wanted to say I love you.”
Smiling larger at how sweet Max was, Liz pushed up and grabbing his shirt, she pulled him to her. Max slid his arms around Liz’s attractive body and kissed her. Liz kissed him back and said, “Have a good day…at work.”
Max said with a sly smile, “I will. You too. I’ll see you tonight, Liz.”
Max quickly grabbed his things and was out the door in eight minutes. Climbing in his jeep he drove on to work.
Meanwhile, Liz dropped back onto the warm bed and started to doze back to sleep. The twins would wake her up in about an hour and then she’d be busy for the rest of the day. She loved them dearly, but liked this chance to get another hour’s sleep. Liz asked herself if that made her a bad mom, then shrugged, telling herself it didn’t, that she was just tired, and fell asleep.
An hour later, Liz was up as she thought feeding the twins breakfast in the kitchen. She looked at the TV and watched Barbara Fix, the spokeswoman, talking with Jensen Ackles on Wake Up!—the morning program that she liked watching every weekday.
Walking to the freezer while the twins ate in their high chairs, Liz grabbed a roast. In the past year, Liz had started learning to cook and enjoyed it. Mainly because she knew Max liked home cooked meals. She loved Max enough to want to please him, to have him smiling at her and telling her how much he appreciated her. He often brought home flowers or little candies just because. Sometimes he took her out to dinner spontaneously or would remind her about when they were teenagers and tell her something about how thankful he was to have her in his life. It always had Liz smiling and generally gave Max a heck of a night of passion after. Which of course he didn’t argue about. Neither did Liz, she thought then, happily. Looking around her kitchen, at the work that Max had done to help fix it up and how much he was a part of her life, Liz looked at the twins with happiness. She smiled broadly thinking to herself without any question that Max Evans was the best husband in this planet or any other she was sure…
Max parked the jeep at The UFO Center and climbed out. It was a warm day already and he left his high school jacket in the jeep because of it. It always was comical to Max how he could be alien and work for a living at a UFO Alien Center. Who better to know that the stuff inside was bunk and would always be so. He grinned, glad that he knew otherwise, as he unlocked the front door and walked inside. Flipping on the lights he stepped over to the register and started turning everything on. As he flipped the sign letting people know it was eight o’clock, that the shop was open, cars started appearing in numbers. All Max could think was Ryan better show up at ten or he was going to be written up again and this time Max would hand it over to the boss. Max was fed up with that kid.
Meanwhile in New York…
Alex had given two weeks notice and was sitting at his office the final day of it, that was boxed up in about six brown dumpster boxes with items he had brought into it. The rest of his things he’d used while here and would keep here. One thing he hated about leaving this place was the friends he had met. Jason especially. He had become like a best friend to Alex. He had been there when Alex was just a nobody, doing all the handiwork for everyone else. The underdog in the company. Alex’s heart was a little sad thinking he was saying goodbye to him. But he did give his phone number to his dad’s place in Roswell and said he would write. He hoped he would, that he wasn’t lying to his best friend. He told his friends in Roswell he’d write them…he hadn’t. What he’d wound up doing was calling them on Calling Cards and paying every month for new minutes. But he was determined he would write Jason. And he would call him too. No matter what Jason would remain Alex's best friend from New York.
Grabbing a recent company office picture, Alex grinned. Jason had stuck his tongue out at the camera and Alex had acted like he was picking his nose. It was great! That helped his melancholy heart some. Just then Jason walked in the office and said with a smile, “Hey. You finally getting your things together before heading out?”
Alex put the picture in the box and said, “Just about. Listen, I will keep in touch with you, Jase. And I want you to as well.”
Jason said, “You know I will.”
They hugged a manly hug that was short then Jason offered to help take boxes out to Alex’s car. He said he appreciated it, but Tess and Amy would be there shortly to help load. Jason helped anyway. So all four carried boxes to the car. Alex Jr. sat in a attached seat to Tess’s back and smiled and giggled, enjoying the bumping movements.
Climbing in the car that night, Alex smiled in the rearview mirror at his son and said, “Ready to roll, Alex?”
Alex nodded in his carseat and played with his toys.
Turning to Tess, Alex leaned across the seat and kissed her. Tess kissed him back and held his hand. They drove out of New York and started on their drive to Roswell. It was going to be a long, long drive…But this was Monday and they planned on being there sometime later this week. Thursday was the guesstimate…
Amy chose to stay in New York and take summer classes. Alex and Tess sold their house to Amy for $1 so that she could move into it when her semesters were over and not have to go all those costly miles home, every couple of months. This way she’d go home twice a year and it would be cheaper on her. Extremely grateful, Amy paid the dollar and took the house.
They wouldn’t see her again until November, but she had a cell phone and so did Alex so they would keep in touch…
Duane had fixed up Alex’s old room so that he and Tess could stay there until they got their own place. They had looked at places while here last month but hadn’t bought one yet. They would shortly after getting back to town. Duane didn’t mind them staying with him again. He looked forward to seeing his kids again. He’d never had a problem with sharing his house with his family. It was as much theirs as it ever was his.
It was a nice summer day. Duane walked over to Alex’s old bedroom window and unlocking it, he pushed it up. Clearing webs from the corners, Duane sneezed, then vacuumed the room. Nodding, figuring it was good enough, he walked out and shut the door.
He walked downstairs, deciding unless Alex and Tess said otherwise, he would have Alex Jr. sleep in the spare bedroom with Miranda. He was sure Alex Jr. and Miranda wouldn’t mind the arrangement. It would also give Alex and Tess more room for their boxes.
Later that week, Duane walked around the house with a mystery book in his hand. He was reading as he walked, an obsession of his. Wearing snug blue jeans and a black tank top, his deep blue eyes reading carefully every word in the sentence, going back at times when he was sure he’d missed a part of it, he put his thoughts on Grisham’s latest book.
He’d gone to town and bought Alex’s favorite cereal, Cocoa Pebbles and he’d bought plenty of milk for the baby since he was running low and Miranda was needing it. He wasn’t sure if Tess still breast fed. That was a private thing and Duane stayed out of it.
He’d seen those kids just a month ago, yet he was counting down the days until they would get here! It was sad, but he loved his family. He sat on the porch that afternoon and let the answering machine catch his business calls as he gave himself some time to himself to read his novel.
Max took Liz home a bouquet of red roses that Wednesday afternoon. He was smiling as he walked into the house. It was early and he was going to surprise her major time, earning him whatever he wished he was sure. Like he thought, Liz grabbed the flowers at the door practically and hugged him, kissing him and even tearing up. It was automatic. Every time Max did something spontaneous Liz about flipped. He smiled and kissed her back endearingly putting his left hand on her face as he said, “They said Liz on them. There’s only one Liz in the world that I feel deserves them. So I’m glad you like them. I love you, Liz.”
Liz wiped her eyes and put the flowers on the dining room table, in a vase. She said, “Max, I love them. I love you. Isabel just took the twins for a day of fun with hers so we’re alone here. I was thinking of calling Tess and seeing where she and Alex were on the drive…but I’d rather just snuggle up with you.”
Max smiled intimately at Liz and seeing it, feeling the same desire, she started toward him, saying, “Max…” He pulled Liz up to him and kissing her deeply he held her in one spot and continued to kiss her lips. Picking her up, he carried her to their bedroom to spend the remainder of the afternoon and part of the night in bed…
It was like he thought. Just as he had thought, Max thought with a sure male smile.
Alex pulled up into his dad’s driveway at seven-thirty Thursday morning. Looking over at Tess who was asleep, Alex unbuckled and looking in back at his son who was also peacefully sleeping, Alex leaned over to Tess. Touching her long blonde curly hair, Alex let his fingers touch her face as he said, “Tess…Tess we’re here.”
Tess opened her eyes and seeing Alex she smiled and said, “We are? Okay.” She unbuckled and said, “Is this Thursday?”
Nodding, Alex said, “Yep. The baby’s still asleep.”
Tess said, “He won’t be when he sees his grandpa.” She smiled looking forward to seeing him too. He was more her dad than her own had been.
Alex said, “Sink or swim right?”
Laughing warmly, Tess said, “Together forever, Alex. One way or another…but I think we’ll swim just fine. We always have.” She said it practically but romantically as well.
Alex said, “You’re right.” He leaned over with Tess and meeting her they kissed briefly, then passionately, before backing up and grabbing their things. They were home again…
It was approaching eleven that same Thursday morning. Max sat at the counter at the UFO Center, writing down a complaint. Ryan, as usual, hadn’t shown up. So Max got to fill out a long, lengthy report against him. Brody was going to be pissed. He’d given his cousin a chance, hiring him for this job. But you took that risk when you hired a fifteen year old kid that spent three fourths of his time gabbing on the phone, flirting, instead of working. Brody was off work today so at least Max could just fill out the form and stick it on his desk, not think about his reaction until tomorrow.
Putting that to the side, putting the form on Brody’s desk, Max thought about his own day. It wasn’t going too badly. It started out busy again, but throughout the morning it died off. It was quiet now.
Max was a private person. He kept to himself a great deal. He smiled very little because his life was pretty uncertain but mostly because he didn’t like others knowing everything that he was up to or that he thought about. It was his business. He didn’t ask what they were thinking or doing. At twenty-seven, Max stood tall, his dark brown hair touched his shoulders, his brown eyes were shaded and elusive. It often made Max smile thinking how much people around him thought they knew him and in truth how very little they did know. He was a mystery and Max liked that. Mysteries kept people wondering, but what was really going on was Max’s concern.
The clock on the wall said twelve when she walked in. Max smiled at her, walking around the counter, toward his latest customer. He asked, “Come to see me for lunch?”
Smiling she said, “Of course.” She walked up next Max and reaching her hands to his jeans, she said, “Is Brody here? Ryan?”
When Max shook his head and gave a laugh at Ryan’s name, she said with a sly grin, “Good. It’s lunchtime. Take a break, Max.”
Max grabbed her hand and walked her back to the backroom where they often ate together during his lunches….
************************************************************
Closing the door to the room, Max turned to her and said, “What did you bring today?”
She said, “Sandwiches from The Burger Hop.”
Max grinned and said, “Thanks.” His eyes were setting on hers as he said, “Drop the bag somewhere…I don’t care about it right now.”
She did and said, “Aren’t you hungry?”
Max nodded and said, “Yeah. I sure am.” Grabbing her into his arms, Max kissed her lips aggressively, then kissing down her throat he opened her buttons and pushed off her yellow shirt.
She was back against the wall of an old breakroom, but didn’t care. She needed to be with Max. Pushing his shirt up over his head, she kissed along his chest and said, “I think I’m hungry for the same thing as you.”
Max said indifferently, “Great. Whatever.” He picked her up higher, pushing her back so that her legs moved around him and knowing she didn’t wear underwear a good part of the time when she met him for lunch, Max unzipped his fly, pushed off his jeans and crudely took her against the wall. Desperation called for borderline hostility when it came to Max Evans and satisfying his high need for powerful sex.
Making love again on the table, Max kissed her lips and said her name as he aggressively gave and they steadily moved on the steely gray table. Sure this was where the gang at The UFO Center ate their lunch, but who cared? It was good enough for Max and this woman as they kissed each other and ravenously took everything that could be offered in lust, desire, and naughtiness. Choosing to take a new position in their act, a very hush-hush act… Fortunately they were alone so it didn’t matter how taboo it really was. Max could be on top and she could really be on all fours!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Twenty minutes before, she got a call from Starbucks saying her coffee order had come in and was ready to be picked up. Deciding it would be a great time to catch up, she called Tess to see if she wanted to hang out. She knew they had just gotten back to Roswell but was excited to see her.
Driving over to the Whitman home, she found Tess and Alex Jr. waiting outside for her when she got there.
“Hey girl. Good to see ya.” Tess said as she strapped Alex Jr. in the back seat. The children looked at each other, grins on their faces as they tried to figure each other out.
“You too Tess. Man I’ve missed you guys.” She said as Tess got in the car and buckled her seat belt.
“We’ve missed all of you too. I can’t believe we’re actually back here to stay now. It feels weird. Almost scary. Like just as soon as we get settled, something’s going to happen.”
“Yeah I know what you mean. Seems to be the story of our lives.” She pulled out of the driveway and headed down the street.
“I guess that’s why I’ve come to expect it.” Tess said.
“Me too. But that doesn’t make the bullet any easier to take when it does.”
“No, it doesn’t. So what’s been going on with you?” Tess asked.
“Oh not too much. Spending time with everyone and taking care of the kids. I’m thinking of starting up a weekly dinner and movie night where we can all get together and relax. What do you think?”
“That sounds like a good idea. I love hanging with everyone.”
“Yeah me too.” She said pulling the car over.
“I just have to drop this off.” She said holding up a white paper bag. “Want to come in?”
“Sure.” Tess said getting out of the car and reaching into the back seat. They put the children into their strollers and headed into the building.
“So when did you start ordering coffee?” Tess asked as they walked through the seemingly empty building.
“Oh about two weeks ago. This is my first order.” She laughed.
“Cool. You’ll have to tell me how it is so I know whether to try it or not.” Tess said as they pushed open the door leading into a room she didn’t know existed.
“We can try it this afternoon at my house. That way you’ll know and you can decide from th…” She let out a loud shriek as the bag in her hand hit the floor.
“Liz!” he gasped, still holding onto the other woman’s hips.
“Mom!” Tess yelled, covering her mouth. Less than a minute later, she ran out of the building, still pushing Alex Jr. in the stroller.
“M…Max?” Liz said, voice shaking.
“Liz I can explain.” Max started, reaching down to grab the waist of his pants, pulling them up.
“Save it Max!” Liz yelled, tears pouring down her cheek.
“How long has this been going on? How long have you been screwing her?” She asked, shaking.
Knowing there was no use in lying, Max looked into Liz’s eyes. “About three months.”
Liz’s shaking became more violent as the tears continued to pour.
“How many others have there been Max?”
“What difference does it make?” he asked, sounding cold and uncaring.
“How damn many?” Liz yelled as Tess’s mom, now dressed, ran out.
“Nine.” Max answered, shrugging his shoulders.
“Nine? Have you been cheating the whole time we’ve been together?”
“No.”
“Then how long? When did it start?”
“About four years ago.”
The look on her face was that of pure pain.
“Don’t look at me like that Elizabeth. You’re no saint yourself. So tell me, what’s it feel like to kill a man?”
“What the hell does that have to do with you screwing Tess’s mom? Wait…you…you were in on that weren’t you?”
Max laughed. “Poor naive Lizzie. I wasn’t in on it. I was it. And you killed an innocent man. Must be rough without your dad.”
Her stomach churned. She wanted to throw up. Needed to throw up. But she refused to give him that satisfaction.
“What are you talking about Max? He tried to kill Michael. He was going to kill us all. I saved your sorry ass, and for what? So you could turn into some psycho asshole?”
“I am what I am Elizabeth. It’s a shame your dad didn’t realize that before. But then again, it was rather enjoyable watching him die. Never really liked the man myself. He was so easy to manipulate. A little tweaking of the mind, adding a thought here and there, he really thought you were the enemy. You should have seen the look on your face after you killed him. It was priceless.” He chuckled.
As much as she tried to fight it, the realization that she killed her dad who had done nothing to deserve it, at least not voluntarily, was more than she could handle and the tears poured out more now than before.
“Y…you don’t have that kind of power Max.”
He laughed evily as he grabbed the sides of her face pulling her mouth to his in a forced kiss. Letting go of her, he leaned down and looked at Max Jr. and Lizzy Ann sleeping in their strollers.
“What do you two think? Does daddy have that kind of power?” he asked in a sickningly sappy tone. Liz quickly pulled the two seat stroller back away from him.
Standing up, Max gripped her chin roughly.
“Don’t piss me off Elizabeth. You will live to regret it.” He hissed through clenched teeth as he let go of her chin almost as roughly as he had grabbed it.
“I have news for you bitch, my powers are a lot stronger than you think. I’ve been setting this plan into motion for years. Starting when that little whore friend of yours Tess got raped. That kid was easier to work with than your dad. What was his name? Oh yes, Scott. I would have loved to have seen it happen. Her fear alone would have been worth it.”
“You sick son of a bitch!” Liz spat out as she tried to make her escape with the kids. Just before she got to the door, it slammed shut.
“We aren’t done talking yet sweetheart.” Max hissed as he turned away from her.
She was afraid. She trusted Max. Had been married to him for nine years. Had children with him. Two beautiful, innocent children who deserved so much better than this. Getting an idea, Liz quietly pulled her cell phone, the ear bud still in her ear, out of her back pocket and dialed Michael and Isabel’s phone number and waited until Michael answered.
“Are you…are you the one who took Michael and Isabel’s baby?”
“Lizzie, Lizzie, Lizzie. I already told you that was me. They don’t deserve children. They don’t deserve anything that would ever make them happy. All they deserve is pain and death and I’m more than willing to give them that.
“Max, they’re your family. Why would you do that to them?”
“My family? Humph! They were never my family. I came here to destroy them. Then you and your little friends all showed up and complicated things. But don’t worry Elizabeth. It just makes things more interesting for me because now instead of two people I can kill, I know have close to fifteen. You have no idea how much that excites me.”
“Why Max? There has to be a reason for this other than just because you like it.”
“Ahh, Liz. You’re right and yet still so wrong. I could very easily do this just because I like it. Because lets face it, I do. It pleasures me to see you and your little puppy friends suffer.” He grinned.
“But you’re right, there is another reason. You see Max and you once ruled Antar.”
“Max and me? You are Max.”
“Come on Lizzie, not even you are that naïve. You’ve never met Max. Actually, his name was Zan. You know why you never met him Liz?”
“You killed him.” She said, voice taking on a sharp tone. She had no more trears to cry.
“Someone call the press, she finally gets one right! You see with Zan out of the way, Rath could step up. All it took on my part was a little shapeshifting to make people believe Zan was in fact alive and stepping down. They had Rath on the throne the next day. Everyone knew what Rath was like, he wanted order, he wanted peace. People don’t like order and peace Liz. I used this as my opportunity to take over much of Antar, with a little help from my dad that is. You would have liked my dad Liz if you had ever met him. Oh wait, you did meet him. Nasedo was a great leader. So you see, with a king in place that no one liked, I could easily begin my take over and who would get blamed when something went wrong? Not me. Why do you think Michael hates rules these days?”
“What exactly is it that you want Max?”
“Oh you’ll find out s…” Before he could finish his sentence, the back door blasted open, Michael and Isabel walking in.
“I see you’ve invited our friends. How thoughtful of you. You do like making my job easier don’t you? First your dad, now this? I could kiss you Liz.”
“You go anywhere near her and it will be the last damn thing you do.” Michael spat out.
“Oh, and what is little Mikey going to do to stop me?” Max said as if he was talking to a baby.
Max didn’t have time to react and before he knew it, was slammed against a wall.
Maria, waiting until Michael had detained, slipped in and took the stroller from Liz, carefully sneaking the kids out of the building, Liz mouthing a silent thank you to her.
You are going to wish you hadn’t done that Michael. I certainly hope it was worth it.” Max hissed, teeth once again clenched as he stood up. There was a bright white light flickering at the ends of his fingers, ready to explode.
Before anyone could do or say anything, Max’s hand was raised and aimed.
“Michael!” Liz screamed as the white light shot out. Everything seemed to stop. Nothing could be heard or seen and no one dared move until the smoke cleared, which seemed like an eternity but in reality was just a matter of seconds. What they saw shocked everyone. Max, lay on the ground, bullet in his forehead. Turning around, they saw Jim standing in the doorway, gun in his hand.
They couldn’t help but feel a great sense of relief and sadness hit them at the same time. This was their brother, their husband, their friend. No one knew why they never knew that he was the enemy, all they knew was that he was and that he nearly killed them all. He nearly killed…
“Michael!”
TBC...
Book Four—Into the Unknown
By, Roswell4Ever1 and Angie
Rating: MATURE to ADULT
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
Summary: A lot is about to happen.
Spoilers: None!
Part One—Spontaneous Combustion…
June 6, 2009
Max awoke that Monday morning and dressed for work. Liz was sound asleep in bed, covered only by the plaid blankets over her slender body, and she was smiling. He smiled at her. They had made love all last night and stopped only when the twins woke up crying from bad dreams. Right back in each other’s arms afterward, they continued on!
Walking to her as he always did, Max smiled and said just above a whisper, “Liz? Liz?”
Liz opened her eyes and smiled with love into Max’s brown eyes. She said, “Morning Max.”
Max said, “I’m getting ready to go in to work. The twins are still asleep. I just wanted to say I love you.”
Smiling larger at how sweet Max was, Liz pushed up and grabbing his shirt, she pulled him to her. Max slid his arms around Liz’s attractive body and kissed her. Liz kissed him back and said, “Have a good day…at work.”
Max said with a sly smile, “I will. You too. I’ll see you tonight, Liz.”
Max quickly grabbed his things and was out the door in eight minutes. Climbing in his jeep he drove on to work.
Meanwhile, Liz dropped back onto the warm bed and started to doze back to sleep. The twins would wake her up in about an hour and then she’d be busy for the rest of the day. She loved them dearly, but liked this chance to get another hour’s sleep. Liz asked herself if that made her a bad mom, then shrugged, telling herself it didn’t, that she was just tired, and fell asleep.
An hour later, Liz was up as she thought feeding the twins breakfast in the kitchen. She looked at the TV and watched Barbara Fix, the spokeswoman, talking with Jensen Ackles on Wake Up!—the morning program that she liked watching every weekday.
Walking to the freezer while the twins ate in their high chairs, Liz grabbed a roast. In the past year, Liz had started learning to cook and enjoyed it. Mainly because she knew Max liked home cooked meals. She loved Max enough to want to please him, to have him smiling at her and telling her how much he appreciated her. He often brought home flowers or little candies just because. Sometimes he took her out to dinner spontaneously or would remind her about when they were teenagers and tell her something about how thankful he was to have her in his life. It always had Liz smiling and generally gave Max a heck of a night of passion after. Which of course he didn’t argue about. Neither did Liz, she thought then, happily. Looking around her kitchen, at the work that Max had done to help fix it up and how much he was a part of her life, Liz looked at the twins with happiness. She smiled broadly thinking to herself without any question that Max Evans was the best husband in this planet or any other she was sure…
Max parked the jeep at The UFO Center and climbed out. It was a warm day already and he left his high school jacket in the jeep because of it. It always was comical to Max how he could be alien and work for a living at a UFO Alien Center. Who better to know that the stuff inside was bunk and would always be so. He grinned, glad that he knew otherwise, as he unlocked the front door and walked inside. Flipping on the lights he stepped over to the register and started turning everything on. As he flipped the sign letting people know it was eight o’clock, that the shop was open, cars started appearing in numbers. All Max could think was Ryan better show up at ten or he was going to be written up again and this time Max would hand it over to the boss. Max was fed up with that kid.
Meanwhile in New York…
Alex had given two weeks notice and was sitting at his office the final day of it, that was boxed up in about six brown dumpster boxes with items he had brought into it. The rest of his things he’d used while here and would keep here. One thing he hated about leaving this place was the friends he had met. Jason especially. He had become like a best friend to Alex. He had been there when Alex was just a nobody, doing all the handiwork for everyone else. The underdog in the company. Alex’s heart was a little sad thinking he was saying goodbye to him. But he did give his phone number to his dad’s place in Roswell and said he would write. He hoped he would, that he wasn’t lying to his best friend. He told his friends in Roswell he’d write them…he hadn’t. What he’d wound up doing was calling them on Calling Cards and paying every month for new minutes. But he was determined he would write Jason. And he would call him too. No matter what Jason would remain Alex's best friend from New York.
Grabbing a recent company office picture, Alex grinned. Jason had stuck his tongue out at the camera and Alex had acted like he was picking his nose. It was great! That helped his melancholy heart some. Just then Jason walked in the office and said with a smile, “Hey. You finally getting your things together before heading out?”
Alex put the picture in the box and said, “Just about. Listen, I will keep in touch with you, Jase. And I want you to as well.”
Jason said, “You know I will.”
They hugged a manly hug that was short then Jason offered to help take boxes out to Alex’s car. He said he appreciated it, but Tess and Amy would be there shortly to help load. Jason helped anyway. So all four carried boxes to the car. Alex Jr. sat in a attached seat to Tess’s back and smiled and giggled, enjoying the bumping movements.
Climbing in the car that night, Alex smiled in the rearview mirror at his son and said, “Ready to roll, Alex?”
Alex nodded in his carseat and played with his toys.
Turning to Tess, Alex leaned across the seat and kissed her. Tess kissed him back and held his hand. They drove out of New York and started on their drive to Roswell. It was going to be a long, long drive…But this was Monday and they planned on being there sometime later this week. Thursday was the guesstimate…
Amy chose to stay in New York and take summer classes. Alex and Tess sold their house to Amy for $1 so that she could move into it when her semesters were over and not have to go all those costly miles home, every couple of months. This way she’d go home twice a year and it would be cheaper on her. Extremely grateful, Amy paid the dollar and took the house.
They wouldn’t see her again until November, but she had a cell phone and so did Alex so they would keep in touch…
Duane had fixed up Alex’s old room so that he and Tess could stay there until they got their own place. They had looked at places while here last month but hadn’t bought one yet. They would shortly after getting back to town. Duane didn’t mind them staying with him again. He looked forward to seeing his kids again. He’d never had a problem with sharing his house with his family. It was as much theirs as it ever was his.
It was a nice summer day. Duane walked over to Alex’s old bedroom window and unlocking it, he pushed it up. Clearing webs from the corners, Duane sneezed, then vacuumed the room. Nodding, figuring it was good enough, he walked out and shut the door.
He walked downstairs, deciding unless Alex and Tess said otherwise, he would have Alex Jr. sleep in the spare bedroom with Miranda. He was sure Alex Jr. and Miranda wouldn’t mind the arrangement. It would also give Alex and Tess more room for their boxes.
Later that week, Duane walked around the house with a mystery book in his hand. He was reading as he walked, an obsession of his. Wearing snug blue jeans and a black tank top, his deep blue eyes reading carefully every word in the sentence, going back at times when he was sure he’d missed a part of it, he put his thoughts on Grisham’s latest book.
He’d gone to town and bought Alex’s favorite cereal, Cocoa Pebbles and he’d bought plenty of milk for the baby since he was running low and Miranda was needing it. He wasn’t sure if Tess still breast fed. That was a private thing and Duane stayed out of it.
He’d seen those kids just a month ago, yet he was counting down the days until they would get here! It was sad, but he loved his family. He sat on the porch that afternoon and let the answering machine catch his business calls as he gave himself some time to himself to read his novel.
Max took Liz home a bouquet of red roses that Wednesday afternoon. He was smiling as he walked into the house. It was early and he was going to surprise her major time, earning him whatever he wished he was sure. Like he thought, Liz grabbed the flowers at the door practically and hugged him, kissing him and even tearing up. It was automatic. Every time Max did something spontaneous Liz about flipped. He smiled and kissed her back endearingly putting his left hand on her face as he said, “They said Liz on them. There’s only one Liz in the world that I feel deserves them. So I’m glad you like them. I love you, Liz.”
Liz wiped her eyes and put the flowers on the dining room table, in a vase. She said, “Max, I love them. I love you. Isabel just took the twins for a day of fun with hers so we’re alone here. I was thinking of calling Tess and seeing where she and Alex were on the drive…but I’d rather just snuggle up with you.”
Max smiled intimately at Liz and seeing it, feeling the same desire, she started toward him, saying, “Max…” He pulled Liz up to him and kissing her deeply he held her in one spot and continued to kiss her lips. Picking her up, he carried her to their bedroom to spend the remainder of the afternoon and part of the night in bed…
It was like he thought. Just as he had thought, Max thought with a sure male smile.
Alex pulled up into his dad’s driveway at seven-thirty Thursday morning. Looking over at Tess who was asleep, Alex unbuckled and looking in back at his son who was also peacefully sleeping, Alex leaned over to Tess. Touching her long blonde curly hair, Alex let his fingers touch her face as he said, “Tess…Tess we’re here.”
Tess opened her eyes and seeing Alex she smiled and said, “We are? Okay.” She unbuckled and said, “Is this Thursday?”
Nodding, Alex said, “Yep. The baby’s still asleep.”
Tess said, “He won’t be when he sees his grandpa.” She smiled looking forward to seeing him too. He was more her dad than her own had been.
Alex said, “Sink or swim right?”
Laughing warmly, Tess said, “Together forever, Alex. One way or another…but I think we’ll swim just fine. We always have.” She said it practically but romantically as well.
Alex said, “You’re right.” He leaned over with Tess and meeting her they kissed briefly, then passionately, before backing up and grabbing their things. They were home again…
It was approaching eleven that same Thursday morning. Max sat at the counter at the UFO Center, writing down a complaint. Ryan, as usual, hadn’t shown up. So Max got to fill out a long, lengthy report against him. Brody was going to be pissed. He’d given his cousin a chance, hiring him for this job. But you took that risk when you hired a fifteen year old kid that spent three fourths of his time gabbing on the phone, flirting, instead of working. Brody was off work today so at least Max could just fill out the form and stick it on his desk, not think about his reaction until tomorrow.
Putting that to the side, putting the form on Brody’s desk, Max thought about his own day. It wasn’t going too badly. It started out busy again, but throughout the morning it died off. It was quiet now.
Max was a private person. He kept to himself a great deal. He smiled very little because his life was pretty uncertain but mostly because he didn’t like others knowing everything that he was up to or that he thought about. It was his business. He didn’t ask what they were thinking or doing. At twenty-seven, Max stood tall, his dark brown hair touched his shoulders, his brown eyes were shaded and elusive. It often made Max smile thinking how much people around him thought they knew him and in truth how very little they did know. He was a mystery and Max liked that. Mysteries kept people wondering, but what was really going on was Max’s concern.
The clock on the wall said twelve when she walked in. Max smiled at her, walking around the counter, toward his latest customer. He asked, “Come to see me for lunch?”
Smiling she said, “Of course.” She walked up next Max and reaching her hands to his jeans, she said, “Is Brody here? Ryan?”
When Max shook his head and gave a laugh at Ryan’s name, she said with a sly grin, “Good. It’s lunchtime. Take a break, Max.”
Max grabbed her hand and walked her back to the backroom where they often ate together during his lunches….
************************************************************
Closing the door to the room, Max turned to her and said, “What did you bring today?”
She said, “Sandwiches from The Burger Hop.”
Max grinned and said, “Thanks.” His eyes were setting on hers as he said, “Drop the bag somewhere…I don’t care about it right now.”
She did and said, “Aren’t you hungry?”
Max nodded and said, “Yeah. I sure am.” Grabbing her into his arms, Max kissed her lips aggressively, then kissing down her throat he opened her buttons and pushed off her yellow shirt.
She was back against the wall of an old breakroom, but didn’t care. She needed to be with Max. Pushing his shirt up over his head, she kissed along his chest and said, “I think I’m hungry for the same thing as you.”
Max said indifferently, “Great. Whatever.” He picked her up higher, pushing her back so that her legs moved around him and knowing she didn’t wear underwear a good part of the time when she met him for lunch, Max unzipped his fly, pushed off his jeans and crudely took her against the wall. Desperation called for borderline hostility when it came to Max Evans and satisfying his high need for powerful sex.
Making love again on the table, Max kissed her lips and said her name as he aggressively gave and they steadily moved on the steely gray table. Sure this was where the gang at The UFO Center ate their lunch, but who cared? It was good enough for Max and this woman as they kissed each other and ravenously took everything that could be offered in lust, desire, and naughtiness. Choosing to take a new position in their act, a very hush-hush act… Fortunately they were alone so it didn’t matter how taboo it really was. Max could be on top and she could really be on all fours!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Twenty minutes before, she got a call from Starbucks saying her coffee order had come in and was ready to be picked up. Deciding it would be a great time to catch up, she called Tess to see if she wanted to hang out. She knew they had just gotten back to Roswell but was excited to see her.
Driving over to the Whitman home, she found Tess and Alex Jr. waiting outside for her when she got there.
“Hey girl. Good to see ya.” Tess said as she strapped Alex Jr. in the back seat. The children looked at each other, grins on their faces as they tried to figure each other out.
“You too Tess. Man I’ve missed you guys.” She said as Tess got in the car and buckled her seat belt.
“We’ve missed all of you too. I can’t believe we’re actually back here to stay now. It feels weird. Almost scary. Like just as soon as we get settled, something’s going to happen.”
“Yeah I know what you mean. Seems to be the story of our lives.” She pulled out of the driveway and headed down the street.
“I guess that’s why I’ve come to expect it.” Tess said.
“Me too. But that doesn’t make the bullet any easier to take when it does.”
“No, it doesn’t. So what’s been going on with you?” Tess asked.
“Oh not too much. Spending time with everyone and taking care of the kids. I’m thinking of starting up a weekly dinner and movie night where we can all get together and relax. What do you think?”
“That sounds like a good idea. I love hanging with everyone.”
“Yeah me too.” She said pulling the car over.
“I just have to drop this off.” She said holding up a white paper bag. “Want to come in?”
“Sure.” Tess said getting out of the car and reaching into the back seat. They put the children into their strollers and headed into the building.
“So when did you start ordering coffee?” Tess asked as they walked through the seemingly empty building.
“Oh about two weeks ago. This is my first order.” She laughed.
“Cool. You’ll have to tell me how it is so I know whether to try it or not.” Tess said as they pushed open the door leading into a room she didn’t know existed.
“We can try it this afternoon at my house. That way you’ll know and you can decide from th…” She let out a loud shriek as the bag in her hand hit the floor.
“Liz!” he gasped, still holding onto the other woman’s hips.
“Mom!” Tess yelled, covering her mouth. Less than a minute later, she ran out of the building, still pushing Alex Jr. in the stroller.
“M…Max?” Liz said, voice shaking.
“Liz I can explain.” Max started, reaching down to grab the waist of his pants, pulling them up.
“Save it Max!” Liz yelled, tears pouring down her cheek.
“How long has this been going on? How long have you been screwing her?” She asked, shaking.
Knowing there was no use in lying, Max looked into Liz’s eyes. “About three months.”
Liz’s shaking became more violent as the tears continued to pour.
“How many others have there been Max?”
“What difference does it make?” he asked, sounding cold and uncaring.
“How damn many?” Liz yelled as Tess’s mom, now dressed, ran out.
“Nine.” Max answered, shrugging his shoulders.
“Nine? Have you been cheating the whole time we’ve been together?”
“No.”
“Then how long? When did it start?”
“About four years ago.”
The look on her face was that of pure pain.
“Don’t look at me like that Elizabeth. You’re no saint yourself. So tell me, what’s it feel like to kill a man?”
“What the hell does that have to do with you screwing Tess’s mom? Wait…you…you were in on that weren’t you?”
Max laughed. “Poor naive Lizzie. I wasn’t in on it. I was it. And you killed an innocent man. Must be rough without your dad.”
Her stomach churned. She wanted to throw up. Needed to throw up. But she refused to give him that satisfaction.
“What are you talking about Max? He tried to kill Michael. He was going to kill us all. I saved your sorry ass, and for what? So you could turn into some psycho asshole?”
“I am what I am Elizabeth. It’s a shame your dad didn’t realize that before. But then again, it was rather enjoyable watching him die. Never really liked the man myself. He was so easy to manipulate. A little tweaking of the mind, adding a thought here and there, he really thought you were the enemy. You should have seen the look on your face after you killed him. It was priceless.” He chuckled.
As much as she tried to fight it, the realization that she killed her dad who had done nothing to deserve it, at least not voluntarily, was more than she could handle and the tears poured out more now than before.
“Y…you don’t have that kind of power Max.”
He laughed evily as he grabbed the sides of her face pulling her mouth to his in a forced kiss. Letting go of her, he leaned down and looked at Max Jr. and Lizzy Ann sleeping in their strollers.
“What do you two think? Does daddy have that kind of power?” he asked in a sickningly sappy tone. Liz quickly pulled the two seat stroller back away from him.
Standing up, Max gripped her chin roughly.
“Don’t piss me off Elizabeth. You will live to regret it.” He hissed through clenched teeth as he let go of her chin almost as roughly as he had grabbed it.
“I have news for you bitch, my powers are a lot stronger than you think. I’ve been setting this plan into motion for years. Starting when that little whore friend of yours Tess got raped. That kid was easier to work with than your dad. What was his name? Oh yes, Scott. I would have loved to have seen it happen. Her fear alone would have been worth it.”
“You sick son of a bitch!” Liz spat out as she tried to make her escape with the kids. Just before she got to the door, it slammed shut.
“We aren’t done talking yet sweetheart.” Max hissed as he turned away from her.
She was afraid. She trusted Max. Had been married to him for nine years. Had children with him. Two beautiful, innocent children who deserved so much better than this. Getting an idea, Liz quietly pulled her cell phone, the ear bud still in her ear, out of her back pocket and dialed Michael and Isabel’s phone number and waited until Michael answered.
“Are you…are you the one who took Michael and Isabel’s baby?”
“Lizzie, Lizzie, Lizzie. I already told you that was me. They don’t deserve children. They don’t deserve anything that would ever make them happy. All they deserve is pain and death and I’m more than willing to give them that.
“Max, they’re your family. Why would you do that to them?”
“My family? Humph! They were never my family. I came here to destroy them. Then you and your little friends all showed up and complicated things. But don’t worry Elizabeth. It just makes things more interesting for me because now instead of two people I can kill, I know have close to fifteen. You have no idea how much that excites me.”
“Why Max? There has to be a reason for this other than just because you like it.”
“Ahh, Liz. You’re right and yet still so wrong. I could very easily do this just because I like it. Because lets face it, I do. It pleasures me to see you and your little puppy friends suffer.” He grinned.
“But you’re right, there is another reason. You see Max and you once ruled Antar.”
“Max and me? You are Max.”
“Come on Lizzie, not even you are that naïve. You’ve never met Max. Actually, his name was Zan. You know why you never met him Liz?”
“You killed him.” She said, voice taking on a sharp tone. She had no more trears to cry.
“Someone call the press, she finally gets one right! You see with Zan out of the way, Rath could step up. All it took on my part was a little shapeshifting to make people believe Zan was in fact alive and stepping down. They had Rath on the throne the next day. Everyone knew what Rath was like, he wanted order, he wanted peace. People don’t like order and peace Liz. I used this as my opportunity to take over much of Antar, with a little help from my dad that is. You would have liked my dad Liz if you had ever met him. Oh wait, you did meet him. Nasedo was a great leader. So you see, with a king in place that no one liked, I could easily begin my take over and who would get blamed when something went wrong? Not me. Why do you think Michael hates rules these days?”
“What exactly is it that you want Max?”
“Oh you’ll find out s…” Before he could finish his sentence, the back door blasted open, Michael and Isabel walking in.
“I see you’ve invited our friends. How thoughtful of you. You do like making my job easier don’t you? First your dad, now this? I could kiss you Liz.”
“You go anywhere near her and it will be the last damn thing you do.” Michael spat out.
“Oh, and what is little Mikey going to do to stop me?” Max said as if he was talking to a baby.
Max didn’t have time to react and before he knew it, was slammed against a wall.
Maria, waiting until Michael had detained, slipped in and took the stroller from Liz, carefully sneaking the kids out of the building, Liz mouthing a silent thank you to her.
You are going to wish you hadn’t done that Michael. I certainly hope it was worth it.” Max hissed, teeth once again clenched as he stood up. There was a bright white light flickering at the ends of his fingers, ready to explode.
Before anyone could do or say anything, Max’s hand was raised and aimed.
“Michael!” Liz screamed as the white light shot out. Everything seemed to stop. Nothing could be heard or seen and no one dared move until the smoke cleared, which seemed like an eternity but in reality was just a matter of seconds. What they saw shocked everyone. Max, lay on the ground, bullet in his forehead. Turning around, they saw Jim standing in the doorway, gun in his hand.
They couldn’t help but feel a great sense of relief and sadness hit them at the same time. This was their brother, their husband, their friend. No one knew why they never knew that he was the enemy, all they knew was that he was and that he nearly killed them all. He nearly killed…
“Michael!”
TBC...
-
gnrkrystle
- Obsessed Roswellian
- Posts: 546
- Joined: Thu Feb 24, 2005 7:56 pm
- Location: Indianapolis, IN
- Contact:
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angelrose242000
- Enthusiastic Roswellian
- Posts: 46
- Joined: Sun Apr 04, 2004 8:28 pm
- Location: Max's bedroom
Re-The Roads We Take
Into the Unknown
By, Angie and Ann
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
Summary: Continues from last chapter…
Spoilers: None!
Part Two—Explanations
That Same Day…
Tess pushed the baby stroller into the house that afternoon, inside a total mess, but desperately knowing she had to take care of Alex Jr. first. Alex Sr. looked at her from the couch and said, “Decide to come home early?”
Being cool on purpose, so she could unbuckle her son and not break down, Tess said, “Yeah…Alex. Could you wait here a second?”
Alex nodded and said, “Sure.” He knew something was up.
Tess unbuckled the seat and carried a sleeping Alex Jr. upstairs to his room he shared now with Miranda. Putting him into his crib she kissed him and pulled his sailboat blanket snugly against him. Checking the empty bed that Miranda slept in—a Princess bed—Tess remembered somewhere that Duane had taken her out that day to spend time with her—he said something about the zoo. Tess had declined and gone out with Liz…then discovered horrid news.
Walking down the stairs, Tess saw Alex walking over to her and just went right into his arms. He held her tight.
Tess said, “Alex is asleep.”
Nodding, holding the ends of her blonde hair in his right hand, Alex said, “He looked tired when you brought him in a few minutes ago.”
Smiling over her son, Tess said, “He was. I’m glad this time that he was…”
Walking together to the couch, Alex said, “What happened, Tess?” He tried to prepare for bad.
Tess looked up at Alex and said, “Liz and I went to the UFO building.” Shocked still, wondering if she’d ever stop feeling so slapped cold in the face, Tess said, “Liz headed back to see Max. It was lunchtime.”
Alex took this in and waited, holding her hand.
Tess squeezed his hand with hers and said, “Alex…” Humiliated and feeling so bad for Liz, Tess said, “We walked in with the kids…and caught Max sleeping with my mother.”
Alex’s body got slammed with a shock that he hadn’t expected. Max was a good friend of Alex’s. A best friend. He looked at Tess and said, “Fuck…”
Tess said, “Exactly.” Tears fell and she said, “My mother…Miss I’m totally against you was screwing Max. I didn’t’ stick around to hear his excuse…I just ran.”
Nodding, Alex held Tess again and said, “How is Liz?”
Tess shrugged and said, “I don’t know. I’ll call her afterwhile. Right now…I’m shocked and angry. My mother can’t get by with this. Not without me finding out why. How she could do that to my friends.”
Alex said, “I don’t know, Tess…I’m shocked too.”
Tess pushed to her feet and said, “I’m taking a drive.”
Alex got his wits together quickly hearing that. He said, “Wait.”
Tess grabbed the keys off the coffee table and said, “I’m going to see my mother, bitch that she is. She will tell me what’s going on. I’ll be back.”
Alex was devastated over this. He uttered, “Be careful.” Then looking at Tess he amended, “You up to driving anywhere, Tess?”
Tess swallowed her pain for the moment and said, “I’ll be fine. Just…please keep an eye on Alex.”
Alex said, “I will. I love you, Tess.”
Tess said, “I love you too, Alex…” She broke into tears again. Alex said, “Come here.” He pulled her to him and held her saying, “Visit her tomorrow Tess.”
Tess expelled miserably, “My mother made me feel like such a slut because I was with you. When I tried to talk to her she refused… Now she goes and has an affair with my best friend’s husband? Max I can’t just wait. I’m angry and I need answers.”
Duane walked into the house just then and said, ‘What’s going on?”
Filling him in quickly, including Tess’s decision, he said like Alex, “Come on.”
Tess grinned.
Duane continued, “I’ll take you.”
Agreeing to that, Tess kissed Alex and left with Duane Whitman…
Tess knocked on her mother’s front door to the two-story brick mansion she had moved into when coming to Roswell years back. The maid, Alyson smiled largely and said, “Ms. Harding!”
Shaking her head, Tess said, “Mrs. Whitman. I am a married Tess now, Alyson.” Still she hugged her old friend and said, “Do you know where mom is?”
Alyson McRichards was a nicer woman than her own mother had been. She’d helped raise Tess and come here with Tess and her mother. After the divorce that Tess spoke little about because it still hurt seeing her dad’s sorrowful blue eyes waving goodbye as they left that morning, Tess clung to Alyson. She should have called her to see how she was doing. But she hadn’t.
New beginnings in Roswell would include that, Tess decided.
Alyson replied, “She’s upstairs, taking a bath.”
Tess said, “Fine. I’ll go on up.”
Alyson knew Mrs. Harding would be angry about that, but what was the point? Tess knew her mother. She wasn’t getting into that mess. It was too tangled and frankly, Alyson thought if Tess laid into her she should get a big HOORAH. So she watched as Tess jogged up the twenty white steps…
Opening the bathroom door, Tess said, “Mom…it’s me. Tess.”
Gloria Harding said, “I’m in the tub, Alyson! You know not to come in!”
Tess said, “I’m not Alyson and right now I feel sorry for her.”
Gloria heard her daughter this time, over the water running. She shut it off and said, “What brings you over here?”
Tess said, “Your stunt earlier. It’s interesting how you could treat me so badly ten years ago but bluntly be screwing a friend of mine.”
Gloria said firmly, “You can go if you’re going to talk like that.”
Tess said, “Get over it. I’m not going to worry about whether or not you are offended by my telling you what I saw. Right now, I’m too upset to. I want answers. How could you…” Shaking her head, Tess fought her tears and her confusion as she said, “How on earth could you do that?”
Gloria shrugged and said, “My business is still mine, Tess. But since you are here to push me and I’m too exhausted to fight, I’ll tell you. Max Evans…” Smiling she said, “He’s young, but he knows how to take me over the edge and have me wherever he wants. Whenever, practically.”
Tess grew very disgusted. She said, “You’re laughing.”
Gloria said, “He makes me happy.”
Tess said, “What about his wife? His children? His marriage, mother. Did you think about that while you were sneaking to the UFO Center…and wherever else…to raise your skirts for him?”
Gloria spat, “You don’t have to be vulgar.”
Tess said, “I’m exhausted too, mother.”
Gloria wet her hair and coming back up she said, “What else are you here for?”
Tess said, “Just to tell you I think you are a hypocrite for treating me so badly when I was raped…closing me off when I needed you…” Crying, Tess said, “when you were worse. I left the center ashamed, mother.” Wiping her eyes, Tess added, “You’ve probably separated two great people, so you could feel whatever you wanted. You’ll meet another guy and think nothing about it…but Liz will never forget what Max has done to her. Never.”
Gloria met Tess’s eyes and said, “I’m sorry. I’m sorry that Liz is hurt. But she really didn’t have to be.”
Too angry to hear more, Tess said, “I’m leaving. I’m going to go and try and help who you’ve damaged…Like always.”
Tess left the house and climbing into the passenger seat she said firmly, “I want to tell you, Duane that you are more a mom and dad to me than that woman in that house…”
Smiling, Duane said, “Thanks, Tess. I’m sorry it went bad.”
Tess shrugged and said, “History has a bad way of coming back. That’s all. Would you mind taking me to Liz’s?”
Duane said, “Not at all.”
So they headed to Liz’s…
Spotting Liz on her porch, Tess walked over and got even worse news. Hugging her best friend, Tess cried with Liz. Max was dead, Michael was in the hospital recovering from a shot wound from Max—a Max that none of them had ever known existed. Damage control was worse than Tess expected. But she was here. And she would help wherever she could…
******************************************************************
Amy Whitman liked college. She’d enjoyed it since day one. It was challenging, it had her working hard to learn what her teachers were asking. It had her aggravated at times, but it was good, it helped turn her around and realize she wasn’t completely a bad kid. She would move forward for her and for Miranda.
As she walked toward the library she was stopped unexpectedly. Turning, she smiled at the new professor.
“Mr. Jacobson. Can…I help you?”
John Jacobson was a fine specimen of a man. Blonde hair with light brown streaks in it, spiked at the top and long at the bottom. He looked like a punk rocker from the 80’s but he kept that Jon Bon Jovi look to his skin. Every time Amy saw him she melted. Furthermore to add to this fantasy of what a fine guy he was, he was single and only 26. How did Amy learn this? She investigated…some as a student…some as full-blown hacker looking for whatever info she could find! She was shameless. But she felt it was humorous and wouldn’t hurt him or anyone.
John smiled at Amy and said, “You forgot your keys in the classroom.”
Blushing, feeling really silly, Amy said, “Great…I mean thank you. Thank you, Mr. Jacobson.”
John said, “I’m going to risk this and you can tell me I’m being too forward if you want, but I’ve been wanting to ask you out since the beginning of this semester.”
Shocked, Amy said, “What?”
John said, “I know…it’s probably shocking.”
Nodding, Amy said, “Yeah…” Could she get her air back? Function again?
John said, “Forget it. I know you’re probably seeing a few guys right now. I’m just being antsy for the weekend.”
Amy watched as he started to walk away. Stopping him by her determination to talk clearly, Amy said, “Wait! Mr. Jacobson. Wait a second.” Walking in front of him she said, “I didn’t say I wouldn’t…go out. I was just surprised. Can’t you get fired for this though?”
Shaking his head, John said, “Not really. They don’t like it but since you’re legal they can’t fire me. Just frown badly.”
Smiling, Amy said, “Going out with my teacher. I don’t know Mr. Jacobson. That might make me a bit of a floozy looking to get good grades.”
John said, “Uh-uh. Not with me. Anyway, Amy…”
Amy said, “I have one thing to tell you…something that is very important to me. Most important. If you can handle this I can handle scandal here at NYU.”
John said, “What’s that?”
Amy said, “I have a little girl, Miranda. The dad is gone. I kicked him to the curb long ago. But…I wanted you to know.”
John touched Amy’s face and said, “I don’t mind. I have a niece and a nephew too.”
Smiling, Amy said, “Okay.”
John put an arm around Amy’s shoulder and said, “I’m heading out for lunch. You want to join me?”
Amy smiled up at him and said, “I’d love to Mr…”
John said, “John. John when we’re dating.”
Blushing for the first time in a long time, Amy said, “John.”
Amy couldn’t believe it. She was dating her professor!
Did that make her a redneck?? Not wanting to know, she put that aside and went to Ryan’s with her John…her date…and her teacher!
******************************************************************
Duane Whitman was actively looking around at zoo animals with his granddaughter in a stroller. He said, “Look, Miranda. Look at the monkeys.”
Miranda giggled.
Duane chuckled with her. He said, “I know. They’re silly. Well how long can you go? You about ready to go home?”
He went over and bent in front of the stroller to look at his gorgeous in pink grandbaby.
Waiting for her response, he didn’t hear the girl who walked up behind him.
“She’s sweet.”
Looking up, Duane met the brownest eyes he’d ever seen. She was standing with a wonderful smile on her face. Duane stood and said, “Thank you. She’s pretty special to me.”
The lady replied, “What’s her name?”
Duane replied, “Miranda. She’s my daughter’s little one. I get to baby-sit until she comes home from school.”
Impressed she said, “That’s nice that you let her do that. Go to school and watch her baby while she goes. A lot of parents wouldn’t. My name is Andie by the way.”
Duane shook Andie’s hand and said, “Duane. Duane Whitman.”
Remembering a younger Duane Whitman, Andie said, “We went to West Roswell High together, years back, didn’t we? I had braces and wore suspenders because my pants were baggy.”
Duane vaguely remembered her and said, “I liked your suspender look.”
Rolling her eyes and blushing, Andie said, “I didn’t’. I was always embarrassed wearing them. I gained some weight so I didn’t have to wear them my senior year, but you were gone to college then.”
Duane nodded and made sure that Miranda was good and fastened in her seat. You couldn’t’ be too careful.
Kissing her cheek, he stood and said, “So where do you live?”
Andie said, “In the country. I have my parents’ house. Now that they are gone, I live there.” Andie felt lonely in it a lot these days. But she sure wouldn’t tell this gorgeous old school friend that! School friend? Hell he had said hi to her sometimes but that was it. Andie drooled over him privately for four years. When he came home from college and got married, Andie was hurt and it took years to get over it.
Duane nodded and said, “I’m in town. Not far from the law firm that I work at from home.”
Andie said, “Oh. Telecommuting is it now. I wish I could. I work as a manager for Rachel’s Shoes on Taylor Drive. We just opened. Before that I was a sacker in Santa Fe. When I thought I could live in a huge city. I learned fast that it wasn’t me. So I came home. Roswell seems to be full of excitement these days anyway…what with the recent shooting.”
Curious, Duane said, “Shooting?”
Andie said, “You didn’t hear. It happened earlier today. I thought everyone knew. Well I’m getting ready to go to the café to get an ice cream. Would you like to come along?”
Duane said, “Sure. I’ll follow you there.” He smiled largely at Andie and saw her return it. Duane was glad that Miranda was ready to go because seeing Andie at the Crashdown Café wounded good to him!
Really good…
******************************************************************
Everyone met at Duane’s to console Liz that night. Nancy Parker and Jeff had already talked with her and told her she and the kids could stay there to get out of the house if she wanted to. She took them up on it.
Now they all sat at Duane’s and offered support. He invited Andie and sat next to him, listening to his discussion of the legalities of Max and his death. They would investigate Mr. Valenti, but it was pretty well sure that he would get off because of Max’s criminal history as well as his threat to Liz and the others.
Amy called home and said how sorry she was about the whole deal. She’d see them soon. She was flying home early so she could be there for Tess, Alex, and for Liz. John would come too—taking his two week vacation he’d saved.
Michael was being released tomorrow. He had been shot in the arm, but it was minimal and he was fine. He was ready to get out of there yesterday! Not liking hospitals at all, he wanted to be at home. He missed Izzy and his kids. He was eager to be away from a see-me gown and nurses who drove him bug assed nuts 24-7.
Pulling together as a family was what they were about. The bond they shared was unbreakable. It helped Liz and Tess when they were hurting. It helped Duane discover that he could be a terrific granddad and care all these years later for another woman. It showed Amy that she could change her life and meet Mr. Right. That he was indeed out there! That she could get married and be a professor’s wife and still a college student at NYU. Even if he did have to change colleges to keep scandal down…
The End
By, Angie and Ann
Disclaimer: We own NOTHING!
Summary: Continues from last chapter…
Spoilers: None!
Part Two—Explanations
That Same Day…
Tess pushed the baby stroller into the house that afternoon, inside a total mess, but desperately knowing she had to take care of Alex Jr. first. Alex Sr. looked at her from the couch and said, “Decide to come home early?”
Being cool on purpose, so she could unbuckle her son and not break down, Tess said, “Yeah…Alex. Could you wait here a second?”
Alex nodded and said, “Sure.” He knew something was up.
Tess unbuckled the seat and carried a sleeping Alex Jr. upstairs to his room he shared now with Miranda. Putting him into his crib she kissed him and pulled his sailboat blanket snugly against him. Checking the empty bed that Miranda slept in—a Princess bed—Tess remembered somewhere that Duane had taken her out that day to spend time with her—he said something about the zoo. Tess had declined and gone out with Liz…then discovered horrid news.
Walking down the stairs, Tess saw Alex walking over to her and just went right into his arms. He held her tight.
Tess said, “Alex is asleep.”
Nodding, holding the ends of her blonde hair in his right hand, Alex said, “He looked tired when you brought him in a few minutes ago.”
Smiling over her son, Tess said, “He was. I’m glad this time that he was…”
Walking together to the couch, Alex said, “What happened, Tess?” He tried to prepare for bad.
Tess looked up at Alex and said, “Liz and I went to the UFO building.” Shocked still, wondering if she’d ever stop feeling so slapped cold in the face, Tess said, “Liz headed back to see Max. It was lunchtime.”
Alex took this in and waited, holding her hand.
Tess squeezed his hand with hers and said, “Alex…” Humiliated and feeling so bad for Liz, Tess said, “We walked in with the kids…and caught Max sleeping with my mother.”
Alex’s body got slammed with a shock that he hadn’t expected. Max was a good friend of Alex’s. A best friend. He looked at Tess and said, “Fuck…”
Tess said, “Exactly.” Tears fell and she said, “My mother…Miss I’m totally against you was screwing Max. I didn’t’ stick around to hear his excuse…I just ran.”
Nodding, Alex held Tess again and said, “How is Liz?”
Tess shrugged and said, “I don’t know. I’ll call her afterwhile. Right now…I’m shocked and angry. My mother can’t get by with this. Not without me finding out why. How she could do that to my friends.”
Alex said, “I don’t know, Tess…I’m shocked too.”
Tess pushed to her feet and said, “I’m taking a drive.”
Alex got his wits together quickly hearing that. He said, “Wait.”
Tess grabbed the keys off the coffee table and said, “I’m going to see my mother, bitch that she is. She will tell me what’s going on. I’ll be back.”
Alex was devastated over this. He uttered, “Be careful.” Then looking at Tess he amended, “You up to driving anywhere, Tess?”
Tess swallowed her pain for the moment and said, “I’ll be fine. Just…please keep an eye on Alex.”
Alex said, “I will. I love you, Tess.”
Tess said, “I love you too, Alex…” She broke into tears again. Alex said, “Come here.” He pulled her to him and held her saying, “Visit her tomorrow Tess.”
Tess expelled miserably, “My mother made me feel like such a slut because I was with you. When I tried to talk to her she refused… Now she goes and has an affair with my best friend’s husband? Max I can’t just wait. I’m angry and I need answers.”
Duane walked into the house just then and said, ‘What’s going on?”
Filling him in quickly, including Tess’s decision, he said like Alex, “Come on.”
Tess grinned.
Duane continued, “I’ll take you.”
Agreeing to that, Tess kissed Alex and left with Duane Whitman…
Tess knocked on her mother’s front door to the two-story brick mansion she had moved into when coming to Roswell years back. The maid, Alyson smiled largely and said, “Ms. Harding!”
Shaking her head, Tess said, “Mrs. Whitman. I am a married Tess now, Alyson.” Still she hugged her old friend and said, “Do you know where mom is?”
Alyson McRichards was a nicer woman than her own mother had been. She’d helped raise Tess and come here with Tess and her mother. After the divorce that Tess spoke little about because it still hurt seeing her dad’s sorrowful blue eyes waving goodbye as they left that morning, Tess clung to Alyson. She should have called her to see how she was doing. But she hadn’t.
New beginnings in Roswell would include that, Tess decided.
Alyson replied, “She’s upstairs, taking a bath.”
Tess said, “Fine. I’ll go on up.”
Alyson knew Mrs. Harding would be angry about that, but what was the point? Tess knew her mother. She wasn’t getting into that mess. It was too tangled and frankly, Alyson thought if Tess laid into her she should get a big HOORAH. So she watched as Tess jogged up the twenty white steps…
Opening the bathroom door, Tess said, “Mom…it’s me. Tess.”
Gloria Harding said, “I’m in the tub, Alyson! You know not to come in!”
Tess said, “I’m not Alyson and right now I feel sorry for her.”
Gloria heard her daughter this time, over the water running. She shut it off and said, “What brings you over here?”
Tess said, “Your stunt earlier. It’s interesting how you could treat me so badly ten years ago but bluntly be screwing a friend of mine.”
Gloria said firmly, “You can go if you’re going to talk like that.”
Tess said, “Get over it. I’m not going to worry about whether or not you are offended by my telling you what I saw. Right now, I’m too upset to. I want answers. How could you…” Shaking her head, Tess fought her tears and her confusion as she said, “How on earth could you do that?”
Gloria shrugged and said, “My business is still mine, Tess. But since you are here to push me and I’m too exhausted to fight, I’ll tell you. Max Evans…” Smiling she said, “He’s young, but he knows how to take me over the edge and have me wherever he wants. Whenever, practically.”
Tess grew very disgusted. She said, “You’re laughing.”
Gloria said, “He makes me happy.”
Tess said, “What about his wife? His children? His marriage, mother. Did you think about that while you were sneaking to the UFO Center…and wherever else…to raise your skirts for him?”
Gloria spat, “You don’t have to be vulgar.”
Tess said, “I’m exhausted too, mother.”
Gloria wet her hair and coming back up she said, “What else are you here for?”
Tess said, “Just to tell you I think you are a hypocrite for treating me so badly when I was raped…closing me off when I needed you…” Crying, Tess said, “when you were worse. I left the center ashamed, mother.” Wiping her eyes, Tess added, “You’ve probably separated two great people, so you could feel whatever you wanted. You’ll meet another guy and think nothing about it…but Liz will never forget what Max has done to her. Never.”
Gloria met Tess’s eyes and said, “I’m sorry. I’m sorry that Liz is hurt. But she really didn’t have to be.”
Too angry to hear more, Tess said, “I’m leaving. I’m going to go and try and help who you’ve damaged…Like always.”
Tess left the house and climbing into the passenger seat she said firmly, “I want to tell you, Duane that you are more a mom and dad to me than that woman in that house…”
Smiling, Duane said, “Thanks, Tess. I’m sorry it went bad.”
Tess shrugged and said, “History has a bad way of coming back. That’s all. Would you mind taking me to Liz’s?”
Duane said, “Not at all.”
So they headed to Liz’s…
Spotting Liz on her porch, Tess walked over and got even worse news. Hugging her best friend, Tess cried with Liz. Max was dead, Michael was in the hospital recovering from a shot wound from Max—a Max that none of them had ever known existed. Damage control was worse than Tess expected. But she was here. And she would help wherever she could…
******************************************************************
Amy Whitman liked college. She’d enjoyed it since day one. It was challenging, it had her working hard to learn what her teachers were asking. It had her aggravated at times, but it was good, it helped turn her around and realize she wasn’t completely a bad kid. She would move forward for her and for Miranda.
As she walked toward the library she was stopped unexpectedly. Turning, she smiled at the new professor.
“Mr. Jacobson. Can…I help you?”
John Jacobson was a fine specimen of a man. Blonde hair with light brown streaks in it, spiked at the top and long at the bottom. He looked like a punk rocker from the 80’s but he kept that Jon Bon Jovi look to his skin. Every time Amy saw him she melted. Furthermore to add to this fantasy of what a fine guy he was, he was single and only 26. How did Amy learn this? She investigated…some as a student…some as full-blown hacker looking for whatever info she could find! She was shameless. But she felt it was humorous and wouldn’t hurt him or anyone.
John smiled at Amy and said, “You forgot your keys in the classroom.”
Blushing, feeling really silly, Amy said, “Great…I mean thank you. Thank you, Mr. Jacobson.”
John said, “I’m going to risk this and you can tell me I’m being too forward if you want, but I’ve been wanting to ask you out since the beginning of this semester.”
Shocked, Amy said, “What?”
John said, “I know…it’s probably shocking.”
Nodding, Amy said, “Yeah…” Could she get her air back? Function again?
John said, “Forget it. I know you’re probably seeing a few guys right now. I’m just being antsy for the weekend.”
Amy watched as he started to walk away. Stopping him by her determination to talk clearly, Amy said, “Wait! Mr. Jacobson. Wait a second.” Walking in front of him she said, “I didn’t say I wouldn’t…go out. I was just surprised. Can’t you get fired for this though?”
Shaking his head, John said, “Not really. They don’t like it but since you’re legal they can’t fire me. Just frown badly.”
Smiling, Amy said, “Going out with my teacher. I don’t know Mr. Jacobson. That might make me a bit of a floozy looking to get good grades.”
John said, “Uh-uh. Not with me. Anyway, Amy…”
Amy said, “I have one thing to tell you…something that is very important to me. Most important. If you can handle this I can handle scandal here at NYU.”
John said, “What’s that?”
Amy said, “I have a little girl, Miranda. The dad is gone. I kicked him to the curb long ago. But…I wanted you to know.”
John touched Amy’s face and said, “I don’t mind. I have a niece and a nephew too.”
Smiling, Amy said, “Okay.”
John put an arm around Amy’s shoulder and said, “I’m heading out for lunch. You want to join me?”
Amy smiled up at him and said, “I’d love to Mr…”
John said, “John. John when we’re dating.”
Blushing for the first time in a long time, Amy said, “John.”
Amy couldn’t believe it. She was dating her professor!
Did that make her a redneck?? Not wanting to know, she put that aside and went to Ryan’s with her John…her date…and her teacher!
******************************************************************
Duane Whitman was actively looking around at zoo animals with his granddaughter in a stroller. He said, “Look, Miranda. Look at the monkeys.”
Miranda giggled.
Duane chuckled with her. He said, “I know. They’re silly. Well how long can you go? You about ready to go home?”
He went over and bent in front of the stroller to look at his gorgeous in pink grandbaby.
Waiting for her response, he didn’t hear the girl who walked up behind him.
“She’s sweet.”
Looking up, Duane met the brownest eyes he’d ever seen. She was standing with a wonderful smile on her face. Duane stood and said, “Thank you. She’s pretty special to me.”
The lady replied, “What’s her name?”
Duane replied, “Miranda. She’s my daughter’s little one. I get to baby-sit until she comes home from school.”
Impressed she said, “That’s nice that you let her do that. Go to school and watch her baby while she goes. A lot of parents wouldn’t. My name is Andie by the way.”
Duane shook Andie’s hand and said, “Duane. Duane Whitman.”
Remembering a younger Duane Whitman, Andie said, “We went to West Roswell High together, years back, didn’t we? I had braces and wore suspenders because my pants were baggy.”
Duane vaguely remembered her and said, “I liked your suspender look.”
Rolling her eyes and blushing, Andie said, “I didn’t’. I was always embarrassed wearing them. I gained some weight so I didn’t have to wear them my senior year, but you were gone to college then.”
Duane nodded and made sure that Miranda was good and fastened in her seat. You couldn’t’ be too careful.
Kissing her cheek, he stood and said, “So where do you live?”
Andie said, “In the country. I have my parents’ house. Now that they are gone, I live there.” Andie felt lonely in it a lot these days. But she sure wouldn’t tell this gorgeous old school friend that! School friend? Hell he had said hi to her sometimes but that was it. Andie drooled over him privately for four years. When he came home from college and got married, Andie was hurt and it took years to get over it.
Duane nodded and said, “I’m in town. Not far from the law firm that I work at from home.”
Andie said, “Oh. Telecommuting is it now. I wish I could. I work as a manager for Rachel’s Shoes on Taylor Drive. We just opened. Before that I was a sacker in Santa Fe. When I thought I could live in a huge city. I learned fast that it wasn’t me. So I came home. Roswell seems to be full of excitement these days anyway…what with the recent shooting.”
Curious, Duane said, “Shooting?”
Andie said, “You didn’t hear. It happened earlier today. I thought everyone knew. Well I’m getting ready to go to the café to get an ice cream. Would you like to come along?”
Duane said, “Sure. I’ll follow you there.” He smiled largely at Andie and saw her return it. Duane was glad that Miranda was ready to go because seeing Andie at the Crashdown Café wounded good to him!
Really good…
******************************************************************
Everyone met at Duane’s to console Liz that night. Nancy Parker and Jeff had already talked with her and told her she and the kids could stay there to get out of the house if she wanted to. She took them up on it.
Now they all sat at Duane’s and offered support. He invited Andie and sat next to him, listening to his discussion of the legalities of Max and his death. They would investigate Mr. Valenti, but it was pretty well sure that he would get off because of Max’s criminal history as well as his threat to Liz and the others.
Amy called home and said how sorry she was about the whole deal. She’d see them soon. She was flying home early so she could be there for Tess, Alex, and for Liz. John would come too—taking his two week vacation he’d saved.
Michael was being released tomorrow. He had been shot in the arm, but it was minimal and he was fine. He was ready to get out of there yesterday! Not liking hospitals at all, he wanted to be at home. He missed Izzy and his kids. He was eager to be away from a see-me gown and nurses who drove him bug assed nuts 24-7.
Pulling together as a family was what they were about. The bond they shared was unbreakable. It helped Liz and Tess when they were hurting. It helped Duane discover that he could be a terrific granddad and care all these years later for another woman. It showed Amy that she could change her life and meet Mr. Right. That he was indeed out there! That she could get married and be a professor’s wife and still a college student at NYU. Even if he did have to change colleges to keep scandal down…
The End
"The truth is out there."
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