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

[Erina]

Hey, thank you all so much for the feedback!!!

She isn't ... you just wouldn't do that to us!

Wanna bet?


Part 21

Liz and Max were still wrapped in each other’s arms, when Liz asked carefully, “How are you feeling?”

Max sighed and reluctantly pulled himself out of her arms, but still remained close, “I don’t know. It’s just weird, that my own father could be such...a stranger,” Max said. “I’m sorry you had to hear that,” he added.

“Don’t worry about it, Max. But I didn’t know your relationship was that bad,” said Liz.

Max nodded, “Yeah, and it has been that way for a while now,” he admitted, “But we were talking about something… before he interrupted us,”

Liz blushed slightly, remembering that his father most probably had witnessed the kiss, “Yeah.”

“What do you think about us being together?” Max asked, “I know it’s sudden and ... like I said, we don’t know each other that well, but I want to give it a go, Liz. So much.”

Liz pulled herself away from him and took a step back. “It’s going to be hard, you know,” she said.

Max took a step forward, “I know that.”

Liz took another step back. “Tess is my best friend and… although we haven’t spent much time together lately and Tess has kind of changed,” she said and then added, “Most probably because of you.”

“She is a big girl, Liz. I can’t be with her just because she or someone else wants me to,” he came closer.

“But,” Liz objected. “What am I going to tell her? I can’t say that I’m dating you,”

“Why not?”

“It’s...un-ethical! You were her boyfriend and I’m her best friend. And you’ve just recently broken up, it would look like I stole you from her,” she cried, taking another two steps back.

She was surprised by Max’s grin. “It’s the truth,” he said. Liz's mouth fell open and her back connected with the wall behind her. “You stole me. You have stolen my heart,” he took the final steps and was close to her once again.

One hand sneaked around her waist, holding her and pulling her against him as his other hand brushed the hair that had fallen in her face. “I’m scared because of my feelings for you. This is new to me,” he admitted. “But if we forget about Tess and the rest of the world, what do you feel?” he asked.

“Max,” Liz whispered.

“What does your heart tell you?” he insisted, without breaking his hold on her.

Liz swallowed. “I like you. A lot,” she said quietly, but she was sure Max heard her anyway.

Max was smiling, his whole face glowing. Thank God, she wasn’t in love with Jeremy!

“And?”

Liz lifted her eyes, to look into Max’s. “I’m scared, but...I want us to try,” she said, as a smile that matched Max’s appeared on her face. “I really want that.”

Max leaned down and whispered, “Thank you, Liz, you won’t regret it,” he promised, but as he was leaning in for her lips, Liz turned her head to the side.

“But there is one condition,” she said. “I want our relationship to be a ...secret for a while,” Liz was hoping that Max would understand her motives. Just a few weeks ago Max was Tess’ boyfriend; it was too fast for them to come out in the light.

Max nodded. “You don’t want Tess to find out?” he asked.

“Just for a while,” Liz said. “Perhaps Tess will find a new relationship or...perhaps it will turn out that we don’t match.”

“I hope Tess will get over me,” Max told her. “Because I’m truly sure that we do match,” he whispered before leaning down.

Liz was in heaven, when she felt Max’s lips on hers. It was their third kiss and Liz hoped that this time no one would interrupt them.

~ ~ ~

Jeff and Nancy were sitting in their living room, watching TV.

“It’s so quiet,” Nancy said. “It seems like only yesterday that Liz was two and now...she is going to college, and since Michael is grown up as well, we have the house to ourselves.”

When Jeff didn’t say anything, Nancy turned to him and saw him deep in thoughts, “Hey,” she said louder, trying to get his attention.

He looked at her, giving his wife a small smile, “Sorry, honey. What did you say?”

Nancy sighed. “You have to stop this, it can’t continue anymore,” she told him.

“What are you talking about?” Jeff asked and stood up. “Do you want coffee? I can make some,” he said and went to the kitchen, aware that Nancy was following him.

“Don’t do this,” she said. “I know you too well, don’t forget that,”

Jeff sighed and sat down.

“What’s going on, Jeff?” Nancy asked, “I know that something is bugging you and it had been that way for a while now. Don’t think I haven’t noticed.”

“The restaurant in Las Cruces… It’s having some problems,”

“What problems?” Nancy was confused; she hadn’t noticed that anything was wrong.

“Something is wrong, very wrong,” Jeff said, “People are complaining. It seems that something is wrong with the food. In the last weeks I have had several people come to me and say that they had become sick after eating in our restaurant.”

Jeff continued, “I checked everything. We have good supplies, cooks and ...everything. I monitored the whole process from A to Z, but still people are getting sick and...I don’t know what to do. People are complaining and we are losing clients,” he admitted.

“Jeff, I’m sure it’s just a coincidence,” Nancy assured him.

“Perhaps, I hope so. Coincidence or not, but we’re losing clients and… it could end badly.”

“What does Michael think?” she asked.

“I haven’t told him anything. In fact, I’ve been sending him away from the restaurant lately. He loves that restaurant and if something is wrong, it will be hard for him. I hope everything improves before he finds out,” Jeff said.

“It will, Jeff. I’m sure it will....”



Be back Wednesday....

[Erina]

Thanks for the feedback!


Part 22

A couple weeks later

Max and Liz were lying on a blanket in the desert, silently watching the night sky. Although Liz had agreed to be Max’s girlfriend, they had spent very little time together in the last few weeks.

First of all, they had to hide their relationship from Tess and thus Liz’s parents, Jeremy and the others were left in the dark as well. And since Liz was living in Roswell, but Max in Las Cruces, their dates couldn’t be as frequent as they both wished.

Max had told Isabel and Maria the truth, who were only happy for him and Liz couldn’t help but tell her brother as well. At first, Michael wasn’t so glad about the fact that his little sister was dating someone, especially Tess’ ex-boyfriend, but Maria convinced him that Max was a good one.

Maria and Michael were the main reason that Liz and Max finally got some time alone. A week ago, Michael had finally introduced Maria to his parents. Jeff and Nancy were glad that their son was finally dating someone seriously. Since Maria knew about her and Max’s relationship, she had come up with the perfect plan of how get them alone.

So, Liz told her parents that she was spending the night with Maria, bonding with her brother’s girlfriend. At first, Michael had declined Maria’s offer and was against it, but once again Maria had convinced him and Liz didn’t even want to think how she did it.

Max had moved out of Jeremy’s house and was now living with Maria. After the party, Jeremy became weirder than before, still saying that he and Liz would be together soon and Max had decided that he couldn’t live there anymore. Besides, Jeremy’s father was Philip’s good friend and he had tried many times to persuade Max to return home.

Since then, Max hadn’t seen Jeremy or Tess. Tess had called Liz and briefly told her that she needed a break from Roswell and was now in Paris.

In some way, Liz was only glad about it, since Tess couldn’t catch her and Max now.

Liz loved being Max’s girlfriend. She had found out so much about him lately, starting with his fight with Philip and ending with his dream of studying medicine. He frequently sent her text messages, e-mails and even flowers, making her parents suspicious that their daughter had a secret admirer.

Liz knew about Max’s dilemma over Harvard. When Max had first told her that he wanted to go to Harvard, Liz had been so happy, that they would be together in Boston, but her joy quickly disappeared.

Max had been accepted to Harvard, but he would need to find a job to support himself. He had some savings, but that wasn’t nearly enough.

Liz had wanted to tell Max that her parents wanted her to live off-campus and that they would provide her with an apartment, but Liz wasn’t sure if she could ask Max to live with her. If they were living together, they would be able to share their expenses.

But could she ask something like that? They had known each other for only a short time, were they ready to live together?

Besides her parents were another matter. They didn’t even know about Max and Liz couldn’t just announce that in Boston she would be living with someone.

Overall, Liz was enjoying the summer. Jeff had sent Michael to Roswell and Liz could spend some more time with her brother as well.

If only she could help Max with his problems...

“What are you thinking about?” Max asked, pulling Liz out of her thoughts.

Liz bit her lower lip nervously. “I was thinking that perhaps you could move in with me in Boston,” she said.

“Liz,” Max started, but Liz interrupted him.

“I know, Max, we have only been together for a few weeks, but...we are both going to Harvard and ... I want to help you,” she explained, sitting up. “We could find jobs, and support ourselves.”

Max sighed, “Liz, you barely know me and…although the last few weeks have been the happiest in my life, I can’t help but ask. Are you sure?”

Liz looked into Max’s eyes. “I trust you, Max,” she replied.

Max’s heart swelled with love, he would love to live with her. Although he was slightly afraid of her big brother, Maria had said that she would work on Michael, if necessary.

“I love you,” Max whispered.

Liz’s body froze when she heard Max’s words, but her heart was filled with joy.

Liz placed a soft kiss on Max’s lips. “I love you too,” she whispered, not even surprised how good it felt.

It had been only a short time, but the feelings had been there since their first meeting at Max’s birthday party months ago.

Max grinned and kissed her again.

When they pulled away moments later, Max suggested, “Let’s get married.”

Liz eyes widened, “What?”

“I love you and you love me, let’s get married,” he repeated. “I know this isn’t the most romantic moment or place for a proposal, but I want you to be mine, Liz. That way no one would be able to keep us apart .”

“Married?” Liz said, still in shock. She loved Max and wanted to spend the rest of her life with him, but was this too fast?

“Yeah,” Max said and stood up. “We could go to Las Vegas tonight and we could be married by tomorrow .” he paced around. “We could call Maria, Isabel and Michael, so they would be there and…you need a dress and…flowers,” he rambled.

Liz laughed at his enthusiasm; suddenly the idea didn’t seem that bad.

“Come on,” Max said and helped Liz to stand up. “We have so much to do,” he exclaimed.

Suddenly he stopped. He bent down on one knee in front of Liz and produced a ring from his pocket.

“Will you marry me?” he asked, still smiling, as he took Liz’s hand.

Liz smiled, “Yes, let’s get married.”

Several hours later Liz Parker became Liz Evans.



Yeah, yeah...I know what you're thinking. Married? So fast? I promise things won't be so shiny for a long time.
Be back Friday

[Erina]

Thanks for the feedback begonia9508 and guelbebek! I know you're surprised about the marriage. Unfortunately, the things aren't going to be so well anymore. So, I made a banner for this. (for the next seven or so parts)





Part 23


“I can’t believe we really did it!” Liz squealed as Max opened the door and helped her to step out of the car.

“Are you happy?” Max asked, bringing her close again.

Liz smiled. “Completely,” she whispered and leaned to his lips.

“Hey!” Michael said, interrupting them. “It’s better if we go inside,” he said and took Liz’s bag.

Liz sighed. They had indeed gone to Las Vegas and got married in Elvis chapel. Everything had been beautiful. After spending the night in a hotel, they had woken up and gone back to Roswell.

But now, standing in the front of the Crashdown, Liz didn’t want to let Max go, “I’ll miss you,” she whispered.

Max laughed softly. “I will be back tonight, remember, we will talk to your parents tonight,” he reminded her.

They had decided that Max would go and freshen himself up, while Liz waited for her parents, who would arrive in Roswell that night. It was the perfect time to talk to them about her marriage.

It sounded so strange. Just a couple of months ago, she and Max weren’t even together, but now they were married; she was his wife. Just the thought of it made her smile.

She felt so happy.

If only Max wouldn’t leave her, even if it was for a few hours.

They had planned everything. Liz and Max would tell her parents about the wedding and in the fall they would live together in an apartment. Eventually Liz hoped that Tess would come around as well.

She knew it was crazy, Max had been Tess’ boyfriend not so long ago, but now Liz was Mrs. Evans, not Tess, who had wished for it.

Max wanted to talk to his family as well. Isabel had been at his wedding, but his parents, of course, were left in the dark. Secretly Max hoped that his Dad would finally leave him alone, but that was just a hope.

What could go wrong?

He and Liz were married and they both would go to Harvard soon. For the first time in a long time, Max really felt that everything would be alright.

“Bye, Mrs. Evans,” Max teased. “Get some sleep, you’re probably exhausted,”

Liz laughed in sheer happiness, “I’m too thrilled to sleep.”

Max leaned down and as, their lips touched, they heard Michael whine.

“Come on,” he complained. “You made me agree to this marriage, but that doesn’t mean I have to see it as well!”

Max and Liz pulled apart and watched as Maria placed a hand on his chest and whispered something into his ear.

A moment later, Michael grinned. “We will wait inside,” he exclaimed and quickly ran into the restaurant, dragging Maria with him.

Liz laughed softly, she couldn’t believe that Maria had so much power over her brother. Michael usually was so collected, so serious; his true nature coming out only in the family.

At first Michael had been unyielding about her marriage, but after Liz talked to him, explaining that she loved Max and that she would really need her brother’s support, Michael hadn’t been able to say no to her, although he still promised to kill Max if he ever hurt her.

“I guess this is it,” Liz said. “You better leave now, that way you will be back sooner.”

Max nodded and kissed her for the last time, before pulling away and walking to the car, where his sister was still sleeping.

When a moment later Maria came out and they all drove away from the restaurant, Liz couldn’t help but feel something…uneasiness. Like something was about to happen.

Liz shrugged and went inside. It was probably just her nerves; she was worried about telling her parents that she was married to Max. She had never caused any trouble for her parents, had got good grades, didn’t drink, but still she was nervous.

Her parents liked Mr. Evans; he had helped her family with money, although now Liz knew that Philip wasn’t a good person, far from it. A good father wouldn’t do or say things to his son like Philip had said to Max.

When Max had told Liz about the conversation he had overheard in his father’s office, Liz had instantly become worried, deciding to talk to her parents as soon as possible. Her parents needed to cut all links to Philip and his money.

Something was wrong, very wrong.

As she walked into the restaurant, she couldn’t help but notice that there were just a few people inside. It was strange, since usually it was full at this time.

She didn’t see Michael anywhere, he was probably in his room, unpacking. Liz noticed their waitress, Courtney, sitting and reading a newspaper, obviously bored, since the restaurant was basically empty.

“Hi,” Liz greeted her as she came closer. “Is everything alright?”

Courtney nodded, “Yes, I opened the restaurant just like you and Michael instructed.”

“Thanks,” Liz said. “Why are there so few people here?”

The other girl shrugged, “Dunno. It’s been this quiet all day.”

Liz merely nodded and went upstairs to her room, to have a nice hot shower and some sleep.

~ ~ ~

“Is everything going as planned?” Philip asked.

“Yes, Daniel did everything he was asked to do. It won’t be too long now,” she replied.

“Good, good,” Philip nodded, returning his gaze to his glass of wine.

“What’s wrong?” the female asked. “You look concerned.”

Philip sneered. “Concerned? No. I’m furious and disappointed in my son,” he replied.

The female sighed. “What did he do this time?” she asked tiredly.

Philip drank the rest of his wine in one gulp, before answering, “He got married to that Parker girl,”



See you on Monday!

[Erina]

Hey, thanks for your feedback!

begonia9508 - sorry to disappoint you but Tess wasn't with Philip in the last scene. And I know...Max/Liz are adults, but unfortunately Philip is more powerful.

Behrsgurl*87 - well, well, well...you're right. Philip won't sit back and let Liz and Max live their lifes.

guelbebek - aww, thanks. The pics are from 'Cry your name'. I think. Not sure anymore.

Dreamer<3 - you will find out in this part, with whom Philip is working. Lol, I get that you hate Philip, that's good. I'll give more reasons to hate him in the next few parts.



Part 24

Kathleen Topolski laughed, “You’re kidding, right?”

“Stop laughing,” Philip said harshly, “It’s not funny.”

Kathleen calmed down; she couldn’t believe the fate. Philip’s son married the Parker girl!

“How did you find out?” she asked. “It’s not like you and your son are talking....”

Philip grinned, “Do you think I’m stupid or what? Of course I know everything about Max and what he is doing, I have a man who follows him all the time.”

“I had known about his relationship with Elizabeth for a while now,” he explained. “But I have never thought that they would get married. How irresponsible.”

“What are you going to do?” she asked. “Congratulate your daughter-in-law?” she asked, a laugh escaping.

Philip sharply turned away from the window. “They won’t be married for long,” he hissed in rage, “I will do everything possible to break them up, she is not a match for my son. I still have a hope that somehow Max will get back home and under my influence. But until than...I have to find a way to break up their marriage,” he said coldly.

“I have one plan,” Philip said, returning to his calm self. “The Parkers are going to be poor soon, without income, without a home,” he said. “They will be so miserable that they won’t even have anything to eat. They will be unemployed and Elizabeth won’t go to Harvard. And then...We’ll see, how much Max loves her,” he whispered, uttering the word ‘love’ with disgust. “I will make a deal with Max. I will give money to Parkers, to help them, but Max has to divorce Elizabeth.”


~ ~ ~

Max couldn’t hide his smile as Maria and Isabel and himself drove back to Las Cruces. They all were going to Maria's, since Max was living there and Isabel didn’t want to go home either. Instead Maria and Isabel had agreed to go shopping.

Isabel and Maria had been gone only for 20 minutes when the doorbell rang. A moment later there was a knock at his door and the housekeeper appeared.

“Mr. Evans, you have a guest,” the woman in her late fifties said and disappeared.

Max sighed and got up from the bed and walked to the living room.

He groaned when he saw Tess sitting there.

“Tess,” he said. “What are you doing here? How did you know I was here?”

Tess laughed nervously, “I needed to talk to you and well...everyone knows about you, it’s the latest gossip in whole state.”

“I thought you said at the party that it would be our last talk,” Max pointed out.

“Can you please sit down?” Tess whispered, ignoring his cold tone.

When Max didn’t move, she continued. “There is something I need to tell you,” Tess said in a shaky whisper.

“Tess, if it’s again one of your crazy ideas of us being together.....”

Tess interrupted him, “No, no...it’s not like that,”

“I’m pregnant,” she said a moment later.

When Max heard those words, his whole world crushed, but he pulled himself together.

“Huh?”

Tears escaped Tess’ eyes, “I know, we aren’t together anymore, but…I’m so scared, Max. I didn’t plan this, I didn’t plan to have a baby at 18,” she sobbed.

Max was still comprehending the fact that Tess was pregnant.

“Are you sure?” Max asked quietly.

Tess nodded. “I have had some doubts for a while now, but I was brushing them off, scared to admit that I could be pregnant,” she said.

“H-Have you been to the doctor?” Max asked, the situation seemed so unreal. How could he discuss Tess’ pregnancy?

“Yes, I went last week,” she replied. “I had the test done, here are the results,” she said and gave Max the piece of paper.

Max glanced at it. There it was; Tess Harding was pregnant.

How could that happen?

“We always used condoms and…you said you were on the pill,” Max pointed out, trying to find...something that would prove that she was lying and she wasn’t pregnant with his baby.

Tess nodded, “I didn’t lie about the pill, but you know that nothing is 100% effective.”

Max started pacing around the room, thoughts running through his head.

What was he going to do? Even if he wanted to, he couldn’t support Tess and the baby. He would have to drop out of college, but even then it wouldn’t be enough; he would have to go back home.

And what about Liz? Tonight they were supposed to tell Jeff and Nancy about their marriage. How would he do it, knowing that another girl was pregnant with his child?

Max stopped pacing and looked at Tess, who was sitting quietly on the couch.

He needed to be sure that she wasn’t lying.

“I want another test,” he blurted out.

Tess eyes widened, “You don’t believe me?”

Max didn’t reply to her question. “I will make an appointment to see the doctor and together we will go and do another test,” Max said sternly.

Tess gasped, “You really don’t believe me, don’t you?” she asked shocked.

“I want to be sure, that’s all,” Max replied. “But God help you if you’re lying and you’re not pregnant or it isn’t mine,” he hissed furiously.

Tess gulped, “Max, you’re scaring me.”

Max calmed himself, “You can go now, I will call you and tell where and at what time you need to be there.”

The girl blonde nodded, “I can’t believe you’re being so cold, Max,” she said before leaving. “It’s your baby,” she repeated.


Be back Wednesday...

[Erina]

Wow, thanks for the feedback!
begonia9508 - you' re right, but I need some drama in this fic.


Part 25

Tess hesitantly knocked at Philip’s door. She was desperate. Max wanted another test and she couldn’t let that happen.

Because then he would find out that she wasn’t pregnant.

With Jeremy’s help, she had faked the test, making it look like the paper was indeed hers and she was pregnant.

But how could she control everything now?

“Come in,” she heard Philip say and Tess pushed the door open.

Philip smiled as he noticed the blonde girl in his doorway. “Tessa, come in, it’s so good to see you,” he said.

He liked Tess. She was beautiful with good manners and came from a good family; a perfect wife for his son.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Evans,” Tess said politely.

She barely knew Max’s father, but Tess was sure he liked her. And now Philip was her only chance, he had to help her.

“What can I do for you?” Philip asked.

Tess didn’t know how to start, “Mr. Evans, I’m really embarrassed to come to you…but…I don’t know what to do anymore,” she said quietly. “I want Max back, but he is stubborn and won’t listen to me.”

Philip nodded, waiting for her to continue.

Tess gathered her courage. “I even faked a pregnancy test, so Max would think he is going to be a father soon,” she said quietly, uncertain how Philip was going to respond.

Philip laughed warmly. “Well, first of all, you could stop calling me Mr. Evans,” he said, placing a hand on the girl’s shoulder, “I’m just Philip to you.”

Tess nodded.

He continued. “And you did a good thing with the fake pregnancy,” he admitted.

Tess smiled; Philip was on her side.

“Max doesn’t believe me,” she said desperate. “He wants to go to the doctor together and take another test,”

Philip nodded. “He’s a clever boy, but don’t worry, I will sort everything out,” he smiled. “I suspect Max will take you to his doctor; I will talk to him. Don’t worry, the doctor will confirm your pregnancy,” he assured her.

“But....” Philip said. “As much as I’d like you and Max to marry, there is a problem.”

“What?”

Philip smirked. “Elizabeth Parker is your friend, right?” he asked.

She nodded, “Yes, she is the best friend I have ever had.”

“Well, I guess she isn’t the person you thought,” Philip laughed.

Tess was confused, what he was talking about. After all, they were talking about her and Max, why suddenly Philip pinned Liz in all this?

“Elizabeth and Max got married last night in Vegas,” Philip informed.

“What?” Tess yelled. “You’re wrong, Liz barely knows Max,” she objected. The thought of Max and Liz being married was completely ridiculous.

“Calm down,” Philip instructed and poured her a drink. “This marriage won’t last for long, don’t worry.”

Tess still couldn’t believe that her best friend could do such a thing, but when Philip gave her photos, photos of Max and Liz in the Elvis chapel, she got furious.

Tess had thought she could trust Liz, but apparently she was nothing more than a lying bitch who had stolen her boyfriend. Yes, Tess thought, Liz probably was the reason why Max had broken up with her.

Tess drank the drink in one gulp, “What we are going to do? They’re married now.”

Philip smirked, “I have a plan. Parkers are going to be crushed soon and you can add a fuel to it by going to your so-called best friend and inform that she is soon going to be a stepmother to your child,” he sneered.

Tess smiled. If Liz had destroyed her dreams about becoming Mrs. Evans, Tess would do the same thing to her. Max wouldn’t be Liz’s. Never.

The phone rang and Philip talked for a short moment.

“Great,” he replied, before placing down the phone.

“You know, I just got the best news,” he informed her, “The Parkers are bankrupt.”

Tess smiled wider.

~ ~ ~

“What?” Jeff yelled. “You can’t do that!” he cried desperate.

The clerk just placed the papers in front of Jeff, “I’m sorry, Mr. Parker, but you had many debts and you have been behind in your payments; you knew the risk,” he reminded.

“Is there anything I could do?” Jeff asked brokenly.

The clerk shook his head, “I’m afraid there isn’t. All your properties now have another owner.”

“I have lost…everything?”

“Yes,” he replied shortly. “And the new owner wants you to leave her properties in 48 hours,” he informed.

Jeff rubbed his face tiredly. He had let his family down. Where were they going to live now? They had lost everything he and Nancy had. Everything.

“Can you tell me who is the new owner?” Jeff asked.

The clerk nodded, “Kathleen Topolski will be building a hotel here.”

Jeff just nodded; he didn’t know this Topolski.

Finally he stood up. He had to search for his wife and tell her the bad news.


Be back Friday.

[Erina]

Thanks for the feedback!

Part 26


“You…bitch!” Tess yelled and lunged towards Liz, quickly slapping her, before the other girl could react.

Liz touched her burning cheek as the tears started gathering in her eyes.

Liz realized something. Tess knew about her and Max.

“Tess....” she said weakly.

“No,” Tess refused to listen to her former best friend. “You will listen to everything I’m going to tell you,” she hissed.

Liz nodded, still holding a hand to her cheek.

“You betrayed our friendship, Liz,” Tess whispered. “You and I…no matter what, we were friends. I told you everything…about my parents, about Max, everything, Liz, and what did you do? You betrayed me.”

“Tess, I’m s....”

“How could you? How could you marry Max, knowing that I love him?” Tess asked, clearly hurt. “For how long?” she suddenly asked.

“What?”

“How long have you and Max had been going out secretly behind my back?” the blonde asked.

Unable to lie, Liz said, “Since that party at Jeremy’s.”

Tess merely nodded, “I trusted you, Liz. I thought we were best friends, but obviously I was wrong,” she whispered. “Because best friends wouldn’t steal each other’s boyfriends.”

“I know about your marriage,” Tess added and Liz’s eyes widened. She and Max hadn’t even been married for 24 hours, but Tess already knew.

“I love him,” Liz said quietly.

“I don’t fucking care about your love,” Tess yelled in rage. “Max was supposed to marry me, not you,” she cried.

Liz gulped, “Listen, I know you’re hurt, but you just have to calm down.”

“Calm down? All my dreams have been crushed and you’re telling me to calm down?” Tess asked shocked.

After a moment, Tess continued, “Even though you and Max are married, I have a stronger hold on him,” she said, an evil smirk appearing on her face.

Liz looked at the other girl confused, “What do you mean?”

“I’m pregnant with Max’s baby,” Tess declared.

Liz gasped. Her head suddenly was spinning and she sat down. This couldn’t be happening, it just couldn’t...

“Does Max know?” she whispered.

“Yes, I talked to him today,” Tess said, smiling, obviously enjoying the broken look on Liz’s face. “He is so happy about the news,” she added.

Liz whipped her head up.

Tess continued, “In fact Max is ecstatic. And… he wants to marry me and give his child a real family,”

Liz gulped, tears flowing down her cheeks, “What are you saying?” she asked Tess somehow angry.

Yes, Liz had married Max, almost behind Tess’ back, betraying her trust, but Liz had hoped that Tess would move on. The fact that Tess could be pregnant shocked her completely.

“Max wants to annul his marriage with you,” Tess declared.

“No,” Liz shot up, “You’re lying,” she cried.

Tess sighed, “Liz, how far are you going to go, huh? You already destroyed our friendship; don’t make a fool out of yourself. Max doesn’t want you anymore; he wants me and our child. Accept it.”

“No, no…” Liz cried softly.

“Besides how could you live peacefully, knowing that you have denied a child, an innocent child, its family? A family with a Mommy and a Daddy, who is always there, not just every other Sunday,” Tess whispered.

“Accept it, Liz, you have lost,” Tess said, taking a documents out of her purse and handing them to Liz.

Liz looked at them briefly, “What’s this?”

The blonde girl took a pen and placed it on the document, “You just have to sign here and your marriage will be over.”

“What? You’re crazy if you think I’m going to sign some papers, without talking to Max first,” Liz said and pushed the papers back to Tess’ arms.

“Hmm, Liz?” Tess cleared her throat, “Perhaps you want to talk to Max, but he has already decided everything,” she said, pointing at his signature in the end of the paper, “He has already signed them,”

Tess was trying to keep a straight face, but it was hard to do. She wanted to laugh at the pathetic look on Liz’s face.

“He has?” Liz asked in a broken whisper, tears blurring her vision.

“Yes, he said that it was mistake and that it would be better if you just sign the paper, sparing yourself from more pain,” Tess said and watched as Liz reached for the pen.

Liz’s hand was shaking so hard, that it was difficult to take the pen. Just hours ago everything had been perfect, but now her life was a nightmare. Tess was pregnant and Max obviously wanted to have a family with her.

How could Liz stand in his way? Tess was right, she couldn’t hurt an innocent child, by refusing divorce Max. Besides, Max had already signed the papers; she could recognize his signature.

Tess was smirking as Liz placed a pen on the paper. Her and Philip’s plan was working out just fine. Philip knew the right people, who had helped him to prepare the papers quickly.

Max would be crushed and lonely, but Tess, of course, would always be there.

After all, she always got what she wanted.

Liz signed the papers.




Okay, don't throw anything at me!!!
Be back Monday.

[Erina]

Ahh, yes...I feel your anger. Well, we'll see if it remains after a couple of parts. Thanks for the feedback!



Part 27

Liz was still sobbing when Michael finally came home.

“Hey, what’s wrong?” he asked concerned as he pulled her in his arms.

Liz continued to sob, “T-Tess… she c-ame here .... S-s-she is pregnant,” she sobbed, “M-Max is the father.”

Michael saw red. Max had married his little sister only yesterday, but she was already crying and hurting because of that bastard. He would kill him.

“Our m-marriage....i-i-is over,” she continued sobbing, “He has already s-signed the papers and... I-I signed them too, it’s o-over.”

Michael just held her tightly. “I knew I couldn’t trust him,” he mumbled, while trying to soothe his little sister.

Michael’s heart cried along with Liz, as he continued comforting her. But that was useless. She was hurt and her heart was broken.

Eventually she calmed down and Michael brought her into her bedroom.

Placing a kiss on her forehead and smoothing her hair, Michael felt such anger. Max had hurt her and he had let him to do it. Michael should have said no to the wedding; heck, he should have never even allow her date that bastard.

Oh God, how Michael wanted to go to Las Cruces and tell Max everything he thought about him, but he was torn. He couldn’t leave Liz alone.

~ ~ ~

When Liz awoke a couple of hours later, she was alone. Vaguely she remembered that Michael had comforted her, but that’s all.

As she remembered that she was no longer Max’s wife and Tess was waiting Max’s child, fresh tears started gathering. Suddenly she heard the front door open and Liz quickly wiped her eyes, her parents were home.

She didn’t want them to see her tears. They would start asking her questions and Liz wasn’t ready to answer them.

She went to the living room, ready to face her parents.


~ ~ ~

Earlier that day...

Max signed the papers and his father grinned.

“That’s a good boy,” he said and patted Max’s shoulder. “It was the right decision, you know it, Max.”

“Leave me alone,” Max hissed.

Twenty minutes ago his father had appeared at the door, with annulment papers in his hands. His father informed him of the Parkers’ bankruptcy and the fact that they had lost everything.

Max didn’t even question how Philip had found out about his marriage; his father had his people everywhere.

In the end, Philip had offered Max a deal. He would give the Parkers’ some money, so they could survive and get a decent apartment at least, but Max had to sign the papers.

He was hesitant at first. He loved Liz, but he knew that her parents bankruptcy was because of his Dad and his evil plans. If he had even a slim chance to improve her life, even if that meant using Philip’s money, he would do it.

He was determined to go to the Roswell the next day and talk to Liz…try to explain that obviously they just weren’t meant to be.

In his daze, Max didn’t notice Philip taking the papers and slipping out of the house. Little did he know that the papers would be on their way to Liz soon and she would sign them, leaving Max no chance to explain.

He locked himself in his room, ignoring Maria and Isabel when they both came home. He tried to forget the evil in the world. He even forgot the fact that he had to go to Roswell to talk to the Parkers.

And he just cried.


~ ~ ~

As soon as Liz saw her parents, she knew that something was wrong. Her mother’s eyes were red and her father...he was smoking and Liz had never seen him do that.

“Liz, where is Michael?” Nancy asked.

“I don’t know, I was sleeping, but when I woke up I was alone,” she explained.

Nancy just nodded.

“What’s wrong?”

Her father still hadn’t uttered a word; he was just sitting there and staring at the wall in front of him.

Nancy sighed. “Maybe you should sit down dear,” she advised.

Liz immediately sat down, waiting for her mother to continue.

“We haven’t told you or Michael, but… our business had some problems and we were losing clients,” Nancy said and Liz nodded. She had witnessed how few customers there were in the Crashdown.

“And,” Nancy continued. “Since we had a lot of debts and… we couldn’t pay them back. We have lost everything.”

“We have 48 hours to leave this house,” Jeff informed, briefly glancing at Liz.

Liz was shocked, “Where are we going to go?”

Nancy started to sob, “We will have to stay at a motel for a couple of days.”

The phone rang and Jeff picked it up.

While her father was on the phone, Liz was wondering what was happening with her life. Just hours ago she was happily married to Max, but now they weren’t together anymore and her family had lost everything.

Her life was a mess. She wouldn’t go to Harvard. She wouldn’t realize her dreams. Nothing.

It seemed like a nightmare. What else could go wrong?

Jeff finished talking and turned to face his wife and Liz, “Come on, we have to go. Michael is in jail.”

Be back Wednesday.

[Erina]

Wow, thanks for the feedback. I know it's hard (lol), but I think that after this part things won't get worse anymore.


Part 28

As soon as Liz and her parents got to the police station, Jeff went to find someone who could explain why Michael was there.

Seconds seemed like weeks and minutes like months until Jeff came back with the news.

“How’s Michael?” was the first thing Liz asked.

Jeff sighed, “He is crushed,”

“What happened? Why he is here?” her mother asked.

“Apparently he was driving around drunk,” Jeff explained. “But that’s not all,” he added. “I don’t know why he was in Las Cruces, but...he was there and there was an accident,”

Nancy gasped, “Is he hurt?”

Jeff shook his head, “No, he is fine, but...he was drunk and couldn’t control the car. Apparently he didn’t see her, but…Tess is in hospital and she has lost her baby.”

Nancy looked at Liz, “I didn’t know she was pregnant,”

“I just found out today,” Liz whispered, feeling sad that Tess and Max had lost their child.

“Oh God,” Nancy moaned. “Why is this all happening?” she cried.

Liz moved to her mother and hugged her, whispering comforting words. She had to be strong. Her parents had lost everything and Michael was in jail, so Liz had to keep a clear head.

“When we can get him out of here?” Liz asked.

Jeff sighed and slumped in the nearest chair, “I don’t think we can,” he said seriously.

“What? Why not? Let’s just pay the bail and get him out of here,” Liz cried.

“Remember, dear, that we have lost everything,” Nancy reminded, “We don’t have enough money to bail Michael out nor get him a good lawyer.”

“What about our friends? We have friends, right? We could ask someone to lend us some money,” Liz argued.

Jeff shook his head again, “When I found out about the possibility of bankruptcy, I tried to call the closest ones, but…I was declined by all of them.”

Liz was furious, “What about Mr. Evans?”

“He didn’t pick up his phone at all,” her father replied, rubbing his face tiredly.

Liz was angry and wanted to yell, to scream… something. She was sure that Max’s father was involved in her father’s bankruptcy. If only she could prove it and find out what exactly had been happening.

“I need some air,” Liz said and ran out of the station.

~ ~ ~

Max was sitting by Tess’ bed, holding her hand. She was hysterical when she found out that she had lost the baby. The doctors had given her some pills and now she was sleeping.

Although Max hadn’t even got used to the idea of being a father, he still was sad that Tess had lost the baby. Now he was wondering if it had been a boy or a girl and what would like he or she would have looked like.

Max wondered how his life had turned upside down only in several hours. He and Liz had got married and annulled their marriage only in a matter of 24 hours. Yesterday he didn’t even know that he would be a father soon, but now Tess had lost the baby.

Yesterday life was beautiful, because he had Liz; but now, without her, he felt weak. Max wanted to go to her and pull her in his arms and comfort her, telling her that everything would be fine with her parents and he would help them.

But he couldn’t do that. He couldn’t help them or even just Liz. He was useless to her and Liz was better off without him. Max just hoped that his father would give them enough money to start a new life. Perhaps Liz could still go Harvard.

He hoped for so many things.

~ ~ ~

Liz had been standing outside for a while now and decided to go back in, when she heard him.

“Well, well, well... if it isn’t Elizabeth?” Philip smirked as he came closer to her and Liz immediately backed away.

“Don’t be afraid,” he laughed. “I won’t hurt you if you do what I tell you.”

Liz gulped. “It’s your fault that my parents lost everything, right?” she accused in a furious whisper.

Philip shrugged, “Guilty,” he smiled.

“You bastard,” Liz cried and her hand moved to slap him, but he caught her hand before she had the chance.

“Listen, little girl,” Philip hissed, holding her hand tightly. “I’m sick of your games. Did you think I would let you marry my son, huh? You’re not a match for him, he needs... someone better than you. You’re the daughter of the man who lost everything because of his hastiness, by taking too many debts, and your brother is a murderer, he killed my first grandchild,” he whispered as Liz started to cry.

Philip smirked at the young girl, she would do anything he told her, he was sure of that. Who knew that Michael, her brother, would help him indirectly and Tess would fulfil their plan until the end?

Philip owned this town. He convinced the doctor to say that she had lost the baby. That stupid doctor didn’t want to co-operate at first and Philip had to blackmail him. Now Max wouldn’t question Tess’ pregnancy and he and Liz had already annulled their marriage.

Sharply, Philip pushed Liz away, releasing his hold on her and Liz almost fell to the ground.

“I have a deal for you,” he sneered.

“I won’t make any deals with you,” Liz spat in disgust.

Philip laughed, “You need your brother out of the jail, not me. You need to get some money, not me.”

“What are you talking about?”

He smirked, “You see I can… convince Tess to drop all charges against your brother and he could be free in a couple of hours. Even more, I will give you and your family some money.”

Liz was hesitant, but she wanted Michael out of that place. “We don’t need your money,” she objected weakly.

Philip chuckled, “Your family lost everything and you don’t have jobs. You don’t have enough money to survive for a month and no bank will give your father a loan anymore.”

He pulled out a check from his pocket and handed it to Liz, “Here, take this and in two hours, Michael will be free to go,” he smiled warmly, although Liz could see the cold in his eyes.

Still unsure, she took the money.

“Now,” Philip said, “I will fulfil my part of the deal, but you have to do something,” he said.

Liz swallowed, “What?”

“I want you and your family to leave Roswell and New Mexico. Even more, I want you to disappear completely, so no one could ever find you. And I want you out of this state by tomorrow night. Is that clear?” he asked.

Liz nodded. They had some money to start a new life and Michael would be out of jail. And they only had to leave Roswell.

But how could they leave? She was born here, the Crashdown had been theirs for generations. And now she had to leave everything behind.



Be back Friday!

[Erina]

Thanks for the feedback, here is the next part. Don't be angry, I promise I'll fix everything to have a happy ending.



Part 29

“How are you?” Liz asked Michael for the seventh time that evening.

After Liz had made the ‘deal’ with Mr. Evans, she had gone back to the police station and in two hours Michael was released.

Liz had told them that Mr. Evans had helped Michael and gave them the money as well and now her parents thought only the best of Philip.

Of course, Liz could have told the whole truth – that Mr. Evans was a bastard and he was the one who caused their bankruptcy, but she would have to tell them about her short marriage and Tess, and that wasn’t something Liz was willing to talk about.

Besides she would tell her parents the truth, but right now, while dealing with bankruptcy, Liz didn’t think it was the right time.

When Liz had ‘suggested’ that they all leave Roswell behind and start a new life somewhere else, they had all agreed. The family had gone to their house and packed everything they would need as quickly as possible.

And now they had been just driving and driving for hours. Jeff and Nancy were in the back seat, sleeping, while Michael was driving.

“Michael?” Liz repeated again.

Michael briefly looked at her. “What? Oh, I’m fine,” he replied quickly, turning his eyes back to the road.

Liz shook her head softly; she knew he wasn’t even close to being fine. “I heard you talking to Maria on the phone,” she whispered quietly.

Michael sharply looked at her and then briefly at their sleeping parents, “Can we really not to talk about this here and now?” he said tiredly.

Liz had a different opinion; this was the best time and place, since Michael couldn’t run away, “No. What happened? You were angry.”

Michael sighed, “We broke up.”

She gasped, “Why?”

“Why? How can you ask something like that, Liz? First of all, I’m leaving New Mexico and God only knows where we will be tomorrow; I can’t have relationship with her,” he explained. “Besides I kind of blamed her...for everything.”

“None of this is her fault,” Liz objected.

Michael nodded, “I know, but I just needed...to blame something, Liz. And she was the closest thing I could find.”

“We have to stay close, Michael. This family is everything we have now,” Liz said.

~ ~ ~

Max was walking back to Tess’ room with a cup of hot coffee, when his father stopped him.

“What?” Max asked annoyed.

“How’s Tess?” Philip asked, ignoring his son’s tone.

“Still sleeping,” Max said and started walking away.

“Elizabeth and her family have left Roswell.”

Max stopped for a moment and closed his eyes in agony. Now he had completely lost her. Their marriage was over, even before it had started for real. His spirit was broken and now he didn’t have the strength to fight his father anymore.

He hoped that wherever she would go, Liz would find happiness again. Her family was destroyed, but Liz was strong, she would survive.

Although Max loved her with all his heart and he didn’t doubt her feelings, in the end Max concluded that they just weren’t meant to be.

He opened his eyes and went back to the Tess’ room.

As soon as he came in the room, he heard Tess’ whisper. “Hey, you’re still here,” she smiled softly.

Max had decided to forget Tess’ behaviour in the last couple of months; obviously it was pure jealously and hurt talking, not Tess.

He couldn’t be angry with the girl in front of him. She had just lost her baby, their child. It wasn’t the right place or time to talk.

They would have enough time for that.

~ ~ ~

Kathleen tore her lips from Philip’s and asked breathlessly, “So, I guess our plan has worked out, huh?”

Philip grinned, “Well, I still would have liked to watch the Parkers’ complete misery, but I had to help them and give money… if only to get my stubborn son back.”

“How do you know he is going to obey you now?” she asked as she stood up from the bed and zipped her skirt back up.

Philip shrugged. “I don’t,” he stated simply. “But somehow I don’t think he will fight anymore,”

“Are you happy now?” he asked, as he got dressed.

Kathleen smiled brightly, “Yes, but there is just one more thing.”

“Come on, not again,” Philip cried and checked his phone. “We have been talking about this over and over.”

“But, Phil,” she whined. “I want you to get a divorce, so you can marry me.”

Philip looked at her, “You know I can’t do that. I have my reputation to think of. What are people going to thinkif I suddenly divorce my wife of 20 years, only to marry a woman who is 20 years younger than me?” he laughed.

“But...” she objected.

“No ‘buts’, you knew about this before we started our relationship,” he pointed out.

Kathleen didn’t say anything. She quickly finished dressing and left the room, without another word.

Philip sneered. Did she think he was a fool? Philip very well realized that she didn’t love him. Even if she had some feelings, her love of money was much stronger.

She had only started this affair with him because of money and she only wanted to marry him because of money.

During the past two years, Philip had helped her. Now she had the Parkers’ properties and Philip decided that it was time to find another mistress.

[Erina]

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

Part 30

Five years later

Liz sighed as she closed the newspaper and looked outside. It was another sunny day and she closed her eyes, enjoying the silence.

After leaving Roswell, they had gone to Florida. Liz’s aunt was living there and she had helped her family as much as she could. At first, Nancy had found a job as a secretary and Jeff, along with Michael, had been working in construction.

Liz didn’t go to the college that fall. Although Mr. Evans had given them money, their financial situation was still tight and the family had decided to invest the money and after a year, the Parkers opened a small cafe.

The next fall, both Michael and Liz started college. Michael decided to go into business, while Liz studied biology.

And just recently she and Michael had graduated. Michael had already found a job at a company and had been working there for a year already, while Liz had only now started looking for a new job.

For the last few years, Liz had been working and helping her parents in their small cafe, but now she had the education, she wanted something more.

Overall, despite everything that had happened in Roswell, they had started a new life. Liz hadn’t seen or heard from Mr. Evans. Although they hadn’t kept in contact with anyone in Roswell, Liz strongly suspected that he could find them if he wished to do so.

Liz stood up and went into their small kitchen to make some coffee. As she sat down in the living room, she looked around.

She would move out soon, she thought. At first the living arrangement was out of the question; they all lived together. But Michael had moved out last year; his job allowing him to support himself and even help his parents.

Soon Liz would be able to do the same thing. Their apartment was really small and Liz was 23 now, she could start her own life.

Liz yet had to tell her parents about her decision to move out. Her parents, especially her father, had become very overprotective of her in the last few years. Liz could understand their reasons, but she wasn’t a little girl anymore.

For the first time in a long time, Liz felt hopeful that everything would be alright.

If only Michael could be the same… Liz wished that Michael could be like he was in Roswell, her brother to whom she could talk about anything, but he had closed himself off.

The guilt had been eating at him for a long time. Michael couldn’t forgive himself for killing someone. Even worse, he had killed an innocent baby. For a long time, he literally avoided his family and Liz couldn’t help but feel hurt that he wasn’t letting her or anyone else in.

The fact that he had cut all his ties with Maria didn’t help either. Liz knew he kept Maria’s photo under his pillow. She knew how he missed her. But still he insisted she was better without him.

Liz sighed and drank the rest of her coffee.

She couldn’t help but miss Max. They had been together for such a short time, but Liz had loved him. And she still loved him.

Now she wished she and Max had their last talk, although she wasn’t sure what they would have talked about.

After all, Tess had been pregnant with Max’s child and he had signed the annulment papers.

But still Liz found herself remembering their short time together. After all, their wedding had been one of the most beautiful moments in her life. She had been smiling all night and they danced and danced all night.

Liz stood up and placed the empty cup in the sink. Their time together was beautiful, but obviously the two of them weren’t meant to be. Mr. Evans had made it clear that Liz wasn’t enough good for his son.

But apparently Mr. Evans had got what he wanted. A couple of years ago, Liz had found an article in one magazine about Max and his wedding to Tess Harding.

Liz of course had been shocked and hurt. Max had told her numerous times that he didn’t love Tess and didn’t want to be with her, but here he was...marrying her.

Perhaps she had been wrong? Perhaps Max had lied to her? Obviously the loss of their child had brought them closer.

And Liz didn’t forget about his father. She was sure that Philip had ‘helped’ his son and Tess to marry.

In the article Liz had read that apparently Max had decided to work with his father and was studying business, while working in his father’s company.

Beside the article was a photo of Max and Tess together. He was smiling, but Liz could see that the smile wasn’t reaching his eyes. Her doubts about Philip only increased.

When Michael had come home and found her reading about Max, he had been mad, tearing the magazine apart.

When they had left Roswell, Liz had told him everything she knew about Mr. Evans and that it had been his fault that they had become bankrupt. After that, Michael felt hatred not only towards Philip, but to his whole family as well, including Max.

Liz decided not to tell her parents about Philip’s evil move. They were already crushed and Liz didn’t want to add the fact that a close friend of theirs had literally betrayed and destroyed the whole family. Besides she couldn’t prove it, only Max’s words.

Even now, years later, the wounds were fresh and open.

Michael didn’t date. Liz wished that he would move on and find someone, but he dedicated himself to work and studies.

Just like Liz did. She didn’t date and her time was spent in the class, in her parents’ cafe or at home.

Liz checked the time. Just like she thought, the door to her bedroom opened and a certain four-year-old boy walked out, just waking up from his nap.

Liz smiled as he rubbed his still sleepy eyes. He had such beautiful eyes, eyes he had got from his father.

She walked to him, taking her son in her arms and sat down, while he still was waking up. He looked so adorable and he was so much alike his father.

It was like she was seeing Max every day now.

She and Max had made love only once, on their wedding night, but that one time gave Liz her little miracle. Her son.


Ahhhhh, I know what you're thinking. I think. Be back Wednesday!