Roswell Fanatics

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24

Max sat against his front door contemplating what to do next. He could go after Liz, but she was pretty clear that she didn’t want to be around him. But he couldn’t just sit there and do nothing. He couldn’t leave the next day without resolving things between them.

Max was about to get to his feet and call Serena, when he heard a sigh from the other side of the front door. He quickly opened it to find Liz fall from her sitting position on his doormat, to lying on the floor once the door fell away from where she had been resting her back.

“Liz!” Max said surprised, looking down on Liz from above.

“Hey.” Liz replied, making no move to stand up.

“I thought you had gone.” Max stated.

“I was going to, but I felt worse with every step I took away from you, until I couldn’t go any further.” Liz replied.

“You took about three steps.” Max replied, judging the difference is space that had been between them.

“That’s how bad it felt.” Liz admitted.

“I’m sorry.” Max apologised, although he wasn’t sure at this point if he should be sorry for letting it go too far, or not far enough.

“I’m sorry too.” Liz replied.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Max asked, laying down on his back next to her, so they were both staring at the ceiling.

“No … but we should.” Liz replied. “I’m sorry for freaking out.”

“Why did you?” Max asked.

“Because when you stopped me, I thought it was because you didn’t want me.” Liz admitted.

“Believe me, that is so far from the truth...” Max replied, about to explain why he did it before Liz jumped in.

“I know. With the benefit of hindsight... well, in those few brief minutes I had to think it over on your front porch anyway… I knew that you were trying to stop me from doing something that maybe I wasn’t quite ready for – something which I would have realised myself if I wasn’t so far over the blood alcohol limit … and feeling so desperate…”

“Desperate? Gee thanks.” Max replied, feigning to be hurt by the suggestion that she would have to be desperate to want to sleep with him.

“That’s not what I meant.” Liz replied, and then after seeing the grin on his face that showed he was just teasing her, promptly smacked him over the head. “Jerk.”

“Why did you feel desperate?” Max asked more seriously, but still smiling at his ability to stir her up so easily.

“Because I was so scared of losing you. You’re going to be gone for three whole months. And you’re going with her.” Liz said, admitting her fear.

“You don’t have anything to worry about.” Max replied.

“I know you keep saying that, but Max – you used to date her. And you obviously still have feelings for her.” Liz pointed out.

“I honestly don’t.” Max denied.

“But Max … you went after her tonight. After everything she has done to you – to us. Why would you do that if you didn’t feel something?”

“I … I don’t know. I guess I felt bad for upsetting her.” Max admitted.

“My point exactly. You must still feel something for her … And you’re going to have her throwing herself all over you for the next three months – not to mention having to film sex scenes which I’d rather not have to think about… So I thought maybe if I gave myself to you, then you wouldn’t be as tempted, and you wouldn’t forget about me.”

“Liz – I don’t need to make love to you to know that you are the only woman I ever want to be with.”

“I know … well, I know that when I’m thinking rationally. But sometimes when it comes to you, I don’t think rationally. I’ve never felt this way about anyone before, and not having you near me for three months is going to make all of those irrational delusional psychopathic tendencies come to the surface.”

“Well, when they do – please try not to run away from me. Just talk to me.” Max asked.

“I’ll try.” Liz smiled.

“Good. Now will you do something for me?” Max asked.

“Anything…” Liz replied.

“Come with me.” Max said, getting up off the ground and taking Liz’s hand. Pulling her to her feet, he held onto her hand and led her back to his room.

“What are we doing?” Liz asked hesitantly.

“We are getting more comfortable. I never realised how uncomfortable my front step is. I’ll have to get that fixed for the next time I find a gorgeous woman lying on my doormat.” Max replied, laying down on one side of the bed, indicating that Liz should join him. Hesitantly she did, and they lay down facing each other. Max made sure not to touch her so she didn’t feel threatened, but was just content to look into her eyes. It wasn’t long before Liz shuffled a little closer and Max felt at ease enough to put his arm on her waist.

“Don’t fall asleep.” He said, seeing Liz yawn.

“I won’t.” Liz replied, shutting her eyes.

“You won’t wake up for work in time.” Max said, referring to Liz’s previous all-nighters because she’d rather stay awake than have less than a few hours sleep.

“Mmm hmm.” Liz said barely awake.

“I would love to fall asleep with you every night.” Max said, brushing a strand of her out of her eyes and placing it behind her ear.

But Liz was asleep and didn’t hear him.

“I’m going to marry you one day…” Max said, before falling asleep himself.

* * * * *

“Will you come and see me off at the airport after your shift?” Max asked.

“Only if you promise to sign an autograph for me.” Liz replied, picturing all the other girls that will be at the airport to see ‘Max Evans’.

“I promise.” Max smiled.

“Do you mind if I take a shower?” Liz asked, hopping out of bed.

“Not at all. There’s a spare towel in the cupboard under the sink. I’ll even let you use my aftershave…” Max said.

“Thanks.” Liz replied, throwing her pillow at him, and then quickly dodging a pillow that he promptly threw in her direction in retaliation.

Max lay back in bed thinking about what the next three months would have in store for him and Liz. He hoped that they would survive the separation. It might even be good for them. It would give Liz a chance to heal without feeling pressured by him to go further then she was ready to. He was really going to miss her though.

“Hey, you’re awake.” Isabel said walking into Max’s room.

“And if I hadn’t been?” Max asked, referring to Isabel making herself comfortable on his bed. It was only 5am.

“Then I would have sat here until you had the strangest feeling that someone was watching you in your sleep and woken up anyway.”

“Gee, it’s a good thing I was already awake then wasn’t it?” Max smiled, sitting up. “So what’s up?”

“Thought you might want to see this.” Isabel said, passing Max the latest tabloid. “Someone left it on your front porch this morning.”

“Damn.” Max said, looking at the front cover. In the top left corner there was a picture of Tess kissing him the night before. Inside the cover there was a two page spread on the love triangle between Liz, Tess and himself. The photos they used of Liz were the unflattering ones from the nightclub and a couple from the industry party the previous week. And there was a bigger one of the kiss with Tess – super-sized in case the readers didn’t get a good enough look on the cover.

“What have you done Max?” Isabel asked.

“Nothing!” Max replied defensively. “She kissed me before I had a chance to stop her – which I did as soon as I could react.”

“And how soon was that?” Isabel asked. “You didn’t seem to be pushing too hard in the photo.”

“Are you accusing me of something?” Max asked defensively. It wasn’t like Isabel to react this way – she knew how the tabloids worked.

“No. I’m just telling you what it looks like – and what Liz is going to think when she sees it.”

“When she sees what?” Liz asked, walking into the room while drying her hair with a towel.

“Nothing.” Max said, putting the tabloid away.

“Liz! I didn’t know you were here.” Isabel said, raising her eyebrows at her brother.

“I’m not for long. I have to get to work.” Liz said, pulling her hair back into a ponytail.

“I’ll drive you.” Max said, quickly getting out of bed and throwing on a t-shirt and some shoes, still wearing his jeans from the night before.

“Thanks.” Liz said. “I’ll see you later on Isabel. We should go out for lunch sometime.”

“I’d love that.” Isabel replied. “I’ll call you.”

Once Liz had left the room, and before Max could sidle passed her, Isabel grabbed him by the arm. “You have to show her and explain. She’s going to see it herself eventually, and you don’t want that to happen when you’re thousands of miles away.”

“You’re right, I know.” Max said, not knowing what he was going to say to Liz when she was already feeling so worried about him going away with Tess.

* * * * *

Liz’s morning passed relatively quickly, which she was grateful for since she was slightly hung-over from the previous night’s activities. Somehow Maria was a little worse for wear, although Liz tended to think that had more to do with a night of make-up sex with Michael rather than having too much to drink.

Liz was just running out the door at the end of her shift when Amy walked into the kitchen holding a magazine.

“Liz? Have you seen this?” Amy asked.

“Can’t stop – Max is supposed to be picking me up to go to the airport. Can it wait until tomorrow?” Liz asked.

“Uh …” Amy tried to reply, just as Max walked into the kitchen.

“Ready to go?” Max asked Liz, before seeing the magazine in Amy’s hand. He gave Amy a warning look, and she immediately put it behind her back.

“It can wait.” Amy said to Liz who was still waiting to see what Amy needed. “It’s not important.”

“Okay. See you tomorrow.” Liz replied before heading out the door with Max.

On the ride over in the car, Max was trying to think of numerous ways to bring up the photos with Liz, and explain what really happened, but he just couldn’t bring himself to do it. Liz seemed so much happier than the night before, a lot less worried. He didn’t want to give her something to worry about again in their last few minutes together.

When they pulled up at the airport, Liz climbed out of the car to find Michael and Maria pulling up in the car behind them. She hadn’t realised they had been following them from the restaurant.

“What are you guys doing here?” Liz asked. “Have you come to see Max off?”

“Something like that.” Michael replied. The truth was, since the tabloid spread that morning, Max’s protective mode had kicked in, and he had asked Michael to come along in case there were photographers at the airport. With that possibility in mind, Max knew he should have told Liz what was going on so she would have some warning, but he just couldn’t do it.

“We’d better go.” Max said, steering Liz through the airport doors, with Michael following closely behind.

“Max…” Maria started.

“Not now Maria.” Max replied, knowing what Maria was going to say.

The three of them waited while Max headed straight to the first class check-in, Maria wanting to tell Liz what was going on, but she really wanted it to come from Max. Minutes later Max was back and they headed for the first class lounge. Heads turned through the terminal as people noticed Max, but he pulled his cap further down over his eyes and kept his head down. Michael seemed to be enough of a deterrent for people to approach them as they passed.

In the lounge, they took a seat on a couple of sofas in the corner, and waited for waiters to bring drinks and food over to them.

“Not hungry?” Max asked Liz, noticing she hadn’t touched any of the food when it came.

“I feel sick just sitting in an airport, even when I’m not flying. I think I associate airports with feeling unwell.” Liz explained.

Max couldn’t help but grin. It was like feeling sea sick in a swimming pool. If only he knew Liz had been guilty of that too.

“Cool. More for the rest of us.” Michael replied, digging into Liz’s share.

“Michael…” Maria began. “Why don’t we leave Max and Liz alone to talk?”

Michael looked from Max to Liz, and then stood up to follow Maria, not before taking the plate of food with him as he left.

“What was that all about?” Liz asked.

“I don’t know.” Max lied. “I guess they thought we might want to say our goodbye’s in private.”

“I can’t believe your leaving.” Liz replied despondently.

“I’ll be back before you know it.” Max replied.

“I know…” Liz replied, but not any more cheerful.

“… and maybe you could come and visit me soon?” Max suggested.

“I’d love to.” Liz smiled. Amy owed her some time off – and really wouldn’t have problem with letting Liz having the time off for such a ‘worthy’ cause.

“When you work out when you can come, I’ll get my PA to organise it. We’ll fly you up first class.”

“Sounds good.” Liz replied. “Except for the flying part.”

“You could drive my car up, but half your time would be spent travelling. I want to maximise any time I get to spend with you.”

“Flying is fine.” Liz agreed.

“I see Tess is here.” Liz said, changing the subject, and having just noticed Tess walk into the lounge with her entourage of bodyguards.

Almost instantly Tess saw them in the crowd, and gave Max a sly smile, before heading for the other end of the lounge.

“What was that all about?” Liz asked, while telling the little green monster to behave itself.

“Nothing.” Max replied a little too quickly.

But when Liz looked at him sceptically, he knew if he was going to tell her, it should be then.

“Liz I …”

“… This is an announcement for all passengers catching flight 672 to Vancouver. Your plane is ready for boarding. Could you please make your way to gate 21. This is the first and final call.”

“… I have to go.” Max finished, getting to his feet.

“Okay.” Liz replied, standing up as well.

Maria and Michael came back over and the four of them headed out of the lounge. As they were walking down the concourse to the gate, they noticed Tess quickly coming up from behind to the point where she was walking next to Max.

Michael did his best to create a barrier between them, but Tess was very determined.

“Tess … Leave.” Max said through gritted teeth.

“And disappoint all the waiting paparazzi?” Tess replied. It was then Max noticed that there were photographers waiting at the gate, already shooting film at the perfect shot of Tess, Max and Liz walking together to the gate.

“Michael?” Max said, indicating to the photographers.

“Already on it.” Michael replied, striding towards the cameramen.

“Is it always like this?” Liz asked, looking at the zoo waiting for them at the gate.

“Not usually quite this bad.” Max replied.

Their attention was soon drawn to a group of children that were staring wide eyed up at Max, and holding a pen and paper in the hope of getting an autograph.

“Do you mind?” Max asked Liz, indicating to the children.

“Of course not.” Liz replied, letting go of his hand. She then watched as Max knelt down in front of the children and talked to them as he signed autographs for them and posed for photos.

“Such a charmer.” Maria said to Liz, walking up behind her.

“Yeah, he is.” Liz agreed with a smile. He looked so comfortable around the children. She couldn’t help but think to herself that he would make a great father one day.

The majority of passengers had since boarded the plane, and the attendants were now just waiting on Max and Tess to join them.

“I have to go.” Max said, returning to Liz. “I’ll call you as soon as I land.”

“Okay.” Liz nodded. “I’ll miss you.”

“I’ll miss you too.” Max smiled, before kissing Liz goodbye.

All too soon he was gone, and Liz watched him walk through the gate and down the bridge with Tess at his side.

“I can’t believe he didn’t tell you.” Maria muttered.

“Tell me what?” Liz asked.

Maria pulled out the tabloid from her bag and handed it to Liz. Liz’s eyes grew wide as she saw the photo of Max and Tess kissing.

“It was probably just an old photo.” Liz said complacently, handing it back to Maria.

“Remember what Max and Tess were wearing at the party last night?” Maria asked.

Liz took the magazine back and had a closer look. Sure enough, the photo had definitely been taken the previous night at the party.

“Why didn’t he tell me?” Liz asked no one in particular.

“I don’t know chica.” Maria replied sympathetically.

“Liz … Liz.” A reported said, escaping from Michael’s clutches and pushing her way over to where Liz and Maria were standing. “How do you feel about the photos of Max and Tess’ reunion? You were here with him today – are you condoning his behaviour?”

“No comment.” Liz replied, giving Michael a pleading look.

“That’s enough.” Michael said, grabbing the microphone.

“Let’s go chica.” Maria said, leading Liz away.

“Liz! Just one more question…” The reporter called, struggling to retain control over her microphone with Michael.

“I’ll give you a question.” Liz replied, turning around. “How do you feel about making a living by trying to ruin other people’s lives? Where do you get off making up stories about people and printing them as though they are the truth?”

“Who said it’s not the truth?” The reporter retorted. “You’ve seen the photos – you can’t fake that kind of passion.”

Liz didn’t reply, but stormed off, as Michael grabbed the microphone and smashed it on the ground. The other reporters that were hovering quickly hid their cameras out of Michael’s sight.

Liz was silent on the trip home. Maria was driving her while Michael drove Max’s car, so she had plenty of time to think. She knew there had to be an explanation behind the photos, but she couldn’t work out why Max wouldn’t tell her. Maria had said that he had known about the photos, and she remembered Isabel and Max talking about something secretly that morning. He had had all day to say something, but pretended as though everything was okay. All she could think about all day was the look she had seen Tess give Max that morning, as though they shared a secret together – and the image of them walking together down the bridge to the aeroplane was just a little too much.

A few hours passed with Liz sitting on the sofa, mindlessly flicking channels on the TV, in the hope of distracting herself from the photos, when her mobile phone began to ring. The caller ID showed it was Max. Liz stared at the ID for a moment before switching off her phone. She wasn’t ready to talk to Max yet. She was still annoyed by the fact that he hadn’t bothered to explain the photos to her.

A few minutes later the home phone began to ring.

“I’ll get it!” Serena called walking in the front door and through to the kitchen. “Hello?”

When Serena looked up at Liz, Liz could guess exactly who was calling, and madly waved her hands around to indicate that she wasn’t there.

“Uh … she’s not here right now, can I take a message?” Serena said, putting on her secretary voice.

“Okay. I’ll let her know. Bye Max.” Serena said, hanging up the phone.

“What did he say?” Liz asked.

“He said that he’s landed in Vancouver and settled at the hotel, and wanted to give you his room number in case you wanted to call him and couldn’t get him on the mobile.”

“Did he say anything else?” Liz asked – like perhaps he was sorry?

“Nope. That was it. His number is by the phone if you want to call him.” Serena offered.

“No. That’s okay.” Liz replied, sitting back down on the sofa and returning to her languid state.

“Is something wrong?” Serena asked, taking a seat next to Liz on the sofa.

Liz just handed her the magazine.

“Wow … Tess is really photogenic isn’t she?” Serena commented.

Liz raised her eyebrow.

“Okay – completely not the point.” Serena apologised and returned to the article. “So Max has been playing tonsil-hockey with his ex? No wonder you don’t want to speak to him. The boy deserves to be castrated.”

“That’s a bit harsh don’t you think?” Liz replied.

“Just checking to see how far down the line of ‘freaking out’ you were. Obviously not at a ten, otherwise you would have agreed with me. A four maybe?”

“Five.” Liz smiled. “I really don’t believe the photos are what they appear. I don’t believe that he would do that with her. But I’m upset at the fact that he didn’t talk to me about it before he left.”

“Maybe he thought it was no big deal? That it didn’t warrant discussion?” Serena suggested. “He’d be used to the tabloids making up lies about him by now.”

“These are recent photos of him kissing his ex – even if it was unsought and unwelcome – doesn’t it warrant discussion?” Liz argued.

“Good point. But is it worth ignoring his phone calls over? Is it worth losing him over?” Serena asked.

Liz didn’t reply, so Serena left her to think it over. Liz remained on the sofa and thought about what Serena had said. She knew she had reason to be upset, but was it important in the grand scheme of things? Did it make Max into a horrible person just because of one oversight? She decided to she’d better hear Max’s side of the story before passing judgement. There had to be a logical explanation …

She got up and found Max’s room number that Serena had written down. Serena had also written down Max’s alias, to which Liz smiled when she saw it. Max had booked himself into the hotel under Mark Parker – her surname. She dialled the hotel and asked for Max’s alias, and after a moment’s deliberation, the receptionist put her through to Max’s room. The phone rang and was answered by a woman.

“Hello?”

“Who’s this?” Liz asked, the blood rushing to her face immediately.

“Who are you?” The voice retorted.

Before Liz could reply, she heard Max’s voice in the background, and the sound of running water.

“Tess… who’s on the phone?” Max asked.

“I don’t know.” Tess replied. “Go and finish running the bath and I’ll be right there.”

Liz slammed the phone down before she heard any more. She had all sorts of crazy images running around her head and none of them were pretty. She also immediately disconnected the phone from its socket and made sure her mobile phone was switched off. She then immediately began rummaging through the fridge and pantry looking for something to drink.

“Liz?” Serena began, as she walked out of her room to see what all the racket was about. “What are you doing?”

“Looking for something strong to drink.” Liz replied, sticking her head deeper into the pantry. “I’m sure I had a bottle of vodka back here somewhere.”

“Liz … its three o’clock in the afternoon…” Serena pointed out.

“That’s my whole point. Three o’clock is just way too early to need a bath. I mean, they’ve only been sitting on a plane – in first class I might add – who gets dirty sitting on a plane? Nooo … they’ve been doing other things haven’t they? I God, I don’t want to think about it. Where’s that vodka?”

“Okay Liz. Time out. You’re not making sense. Who are we talking about?”

“We are talking about Max and Tess, and the fact that I just tried to call him but apparently he was too busy to answer his own phone because he was running a bath.”

“So – who answered the phone?” Serena asked, but she could see where this was heading.

“Tess. That’s who. Now I need something to drink to erase those horrible images from my mind.” Liz said, beginning to search through the other kitchen cupboards.

“That’s it. I’m calling Max.” Serena said, picking up the phone, only to find that Liz had disconnected it.

“Fine. I’ll call him from my mobile.” Serena said, walking to her handbag and reaching for her phone.

“You don’t have his number.” Liz taunted.

“Guess again, sweetheart. Max gave it to me before he left in case of an emergency. Well, this is an emergency.” Serena replied, as she started dialling the number.

“What are you going to say?” Liz asked, trying to work out how to steal Serena’s phone from her even though Serena was taller and stronger than she was.

“I’m just going to have a little heart to heart with my friend Max.” Serena replied. “Well… I would if he was answering his phone.”

“Obviously too busy...” Liz smiled, suggesting Serena had confirmed her theory.

“Or he is too busy kicking that boyfriend-stealing-bitch out of his room.” Serena replied.

“Nice try. Now where’s that vodka?” Liz asked, knowing that Serena must have had something to do with its disappearance.

“I drank it.” Serena lied.

“No you didn’t. You don’t like vodka.” Liz called her bluff. “Nevermind. I have a bottle in my room.”

As Liz went off to find her bottle, Serena’s phone started vibrating in her hand.

“You’d better start explaining yourself mister.” Serena demanded before Max could get a word in.

Hi all. Thanks for all the feedback. You guys are great as always.

So, without further ado ...


25

Earlier that day …

“So. Three whole months without your precious Liz.” Tess began, before they were even on the plane. “How are you going to cope?”

“I’ll manage.” Max replied through gritted teeth. This was going to be a long flight.

“Don’t worry Maxie. I’ll make sure you never feel lonely.” Tess purred.

Max stopped walking and turned to face Tess. Surprised, she backed up a little until she was flush against the wall of the corridor.

“Since you appear to have a very short memory, let me remind you that I don’t want to have anything to do with you.” Max replied. “We may be shooting the same movie together, but as far as I’m concerned you don’t exist to me.”

Max backed off a little when a couple of members of the ground crew turned the corner and headed in their direction.

“Way to go.” One of them said to Max, assuming that he was trying to get in a quickie with his girlfriend before boarding the plane.

Max just stormed off, leaving Tess to hurry to catch up.

“We were just about to leave without you.” One of the stewardess’ smiled when they finally boarded the plane. “Right this way Mr Evans… Ms Harding.”

Max politely let Tess go first, trying to keep up appearances, but hesitated when it turned out that they had been allocated seats together.

“Is there any chance you could move me to another seat?” Max asked the stewardess, who looked at him confused, while Tess looked at him with venom.

“I’m sorry sir, but we are completely full today. There’s a UFO convention in Vancouver.” The stewardess apologised, indicating that every other first class seat was currently taken.

“Economy?” Max asked hopefully.

“Even economy.” The stewardess smiled, wondering what was going on between the two Hollywood stars to make Max Evans lower his standards to request a seat in economy.

Max reluctantly took his seat, and rummaged around for his headphones, in the hope of not having to listen to Tess talk for the rest of the flight. However, before he could take them out of the plastic, one of the other stewardesses approached them with a magazine and a pen.

“I hope you don’t mind … but I was hoping I could get an autograph for my niece.” The stewardess said, handing them to Max first.

Max took one look at it and rolled his eyes. It was the tabloid from that morning.

“Here.” He said, passing it to Tess. “I believe this is your handiwork. You should be the one to sign it.”

Tess did so, before politely handing it back to the stewardess.

“So did you have the paparazzi there waiting for that photo, or did you just get lucky?” Max asked, once the stewardess had left disappointed.

“Are you suggesting that I planted photographers there in the off-chance you were going to kiss me?” Tess asked.

“Kiss you? You’re the one who kissed me!” Max replied, trying not to raise his voice, but Tess was being unbelievable. Was she really that delusional?

“And you kissed me back.” Tess replied satisfied.

“I did not…” Max denied, although somewhat unconvincingly.

“Don’t even try to deny that you didn’t feel it again – what we had – even for a moment.”

“If I felt anything, it was nausea.” Max replied.

“What ever you need to tell yourself…” Tess said smugly, still convinced that Max would soon realise that he was still in love with her after all.

“You’re unbelievable …” Max muttered to himself, reaching for the headphones for a second time.

“I’m unbelievable? At least I know what I want and keep going until I get it.” Tess replied haughtily.

“Just because you want something, doesn’t mean you’ll get it.” Max replied, trying not to raise his voice, although other passengers were already starting to look in their direction.

“It takes two to tango – and I’m not interested.” Max stated, wondering exactly what Tess needed to hear to make her give up.

“We’ve done that dance before – and if I recall correctly – we were good at it.” Tess continued the metaphor.

“Until you decided to change partners…”

“Well. I want to dance with you again. You were the best partner I ever had.”

“Bad luck. It’s too late. The song’s over.” Max replied, removing his seatbelt before the seatbelt sign had been switched off, and stood in the aisle.

“Don’t walk away from me Max.” Tess said, raising her voice, not caring that all the first class passengers and stewardesses were staring at them.

“You should be used to the sight of my back. You stabbed a knife in it once if I recall.” Max replied before he turned his back and began to walk away.

There was complete silence as everyone gaped at the sight of Max and Tess fighting.

“Max – if you don’t get back here right now I’ll …” Tess sneered.

Max shot back quickly. “You’ll what? You’ll find some other lie to spin to the tabloids? You’ll find some other completely innocent moment look compromising, just to keep your name in the paper?”

“That kiss was hardly innocent…”

“Maybe not on your behalf…” Max pointed out.

In that moment Max heard the sound of a pencil quickly scribbling over paper. A few rows up there was a journalist that Max recognised from one of his many interviews. What she was doing in first class he wasn’t sure, although his flight plan hadn’t been kept particularly confidential for this trip. As neither Max of Tess had said anything for a couple of minutes, she stopped writing and looked up, noticing for the first time that Max’s eyes were on her.

“Are you right there? Got enough for your little story?” Max demanded.

“Oh … I … um.” The reporter said, beginning to put her paper and pencil away.

“No, no. By all means, write your story. Just make sure you have all your facts straight.” Max said.

“Like what for instance?” The journalist asked feeling brave.

“Let’s see… The fact that Tess and I are not reunited as was so eloquently published in today’s tabloids. And we are definitely not involved in a threesome. In fact, as you’ve probably gathered, Tess and I are not on the best terms.”

“Wh… why is that?” The journalist asked, feeling even braver.

“Because Tess … well, let’s just say Tess is nothing like the characters she portrays.”

“Max!” Tess screamed, worried about what Max was going to say next about her.

“See what I mean.” Max replied, as if Tess was proving his point, and to which the journalist smiled.

“Aren’t you worried that telling me this will affect the ratings on you latest venture? If it gets out that Hollywood’s dream couple have split?”

“I’ll probably get fired…” Max smiled, knowing full well that it could get another job in an instant, whether or not he was linked to Tess romantically. “But I’ve recently learned that there’s more to life.”

“Like what?”

“Family… Friendship … Love. ” Max replied.

“So the rumours are true? Her name is Liz isn’t it? How did you two meet?” The journalist asked.

“I’m not willing to talk about that part of my life at this stage. But when I’m ready, you’ll be the first to know.” Max promised, giving her one of his award-winning smiles that would make any women keel over.

“Can I count on an exclusive?” The journalist pushed, trying her luck.

“Depending on what I read in your paper tomorrow.” Max countered, wanting to make sure that the journalist would not use anything she had overheard to his or Liz’s disadvantage.

“Here’s my card.” The journalist said, giving Max an understanding smile while offering him her business card. “Call me when you are ready.”

“What about me?!” Tess demanded, feeling like the third-wheel when she should have equal billing in this discussion.

The journalist turned to Tess with a look to suggest that she had completely forgotten for a moment that Tess was even there.

“So that’s how it is?” Tess said, realising that Max was overshadowing her.

“Get used to it Tess. It won’t take long for people to realise the kind of person you really are, and want nothing to do with you.” Max explained. “One day you’ll star in a ‘Where are they now’ show, because people will have forgotten all about you.”

Tess huffed, so shocked by the journalist’s disinterestedness, and Max’s scathing reply, to have any semblance of an intelligent response.

* * * * *

Max managed to convince one of the other first class passengers to switch seats so he could enjoy the rest of the flight without Tess. Tess, on the other hand, got the short end of the deal, finding herself sitting next to a fifteen year old boy who couldn’t stop staring at her breasts for the entire flight. Meanwhile, Max was busy casually flirting with the journalist, trying to soften her up for the story that she was going to write. With a few more complimentary champagnes and flattering comments, his little outburst would be forgotten, and he wouldn’t have just jeopardised his latest film by outing the stars as warring enemies.

Once they landed, there was mayhem in the airport. Planes had been delayed or cancelled due to a freak hail storm. Max made his way through the crowd, glad that in everybody’s angst at being delayed, they failed to notice the movie star push his way through. He grabbed his bag and made his way to the car that was waiting for him, completely ignoring Tess’ pleas for help with her luggage. Her usual cronies that helped her with her every whim seemed to have been lost in the crowd and she was left to fend for herself.

Unfortunately for Max, the waiting car had been booked for the both of them, and he had to wait for the driver helped Tess with her bags, before she climbed inside with him.

“Nice Max. Real nice.” Tess said, commenting on Max’s lack of assistance with her luggage.

“Sorry. I didn’t see you in the crowd. You’re so short.” Max replied, before looking at the window to avoid any more eye contact.

They soon reached the hotel and Max left his luggage for the valet and headed for the reception desk to check in. Tess was immediately behind him.

“Mr Evans, Ms Harding.” The waiting receptionist greeted them.

“Ladies first.” Max offered for Tess to check in first.

“No, I insist.” Tess counter-offered.

“Why, thank you.” Max said, putting on the fakest sounding pleasant voice he could manage.

After Max had finished checking in, he headed to his room, leaving his luggage with the valet to bring up to him. His room was one of the penthouse rooms, looking over Stanley Park, equipped with king size bed, king size Jacuzzi and king-sized stocked mini bar.

Max wished Liz was there to see the room. She would laugh at how overly huge and unnecessary it was. He could also imagine standing with her on the balcony looking at the ships sailing in and out of the harbour. He pulled out his cell phone and gave her a call, but she wasn’t answering. He tried on the home phone too but Serena said she wasn’t there.

Minutes later he heard the door open and someone shuffle inside. He thought it was odd that the bell boy would let himself in without ringing the bell, but stranger things had happened. As Max walked towards the entrance he was greeted by the sight of Tess putting her purse on the dresser and kicking off her shoes.

“What are you doing here?” Max demanded.

“What are you doing here?” Tess countered.

“This is my room.” Max replied.

“No. This is my room.”

“Tess. I’m not in the mood for another one of your games. Would you just leave and find your own room?”

“I’m telling you the truth. This is room 2010. That is the room I was given the key for.” Tess replied.

“Let me see that…” Max said, not believing her for a minute.

“See.” Tess replied, seeing it dawn on Max that she was telling the truth.

“I’m calling the reception desk to get this sorted out.” Max said, reaching for the phone.

“Wait.” Tess said, putting her hand on the receiver preventing Max from picking it up. “Maybe this is fate?”

“Fate? You think this is fate?” Max retorted. “Fate is only being able to get an economy seat on a plane and finding yourself allocated to the seat next to your soul mate. Fate is not finding your ex-girlfriend has bribed the lady at the reception desk for the key to my room.”

“I didn’t …” Tess denied, but she couldn’t help the blush creep on her face.

“Whatever… Just leave Tess. I don’t want you here.”

“I’m not leaving.” Tess said, walking further into the room and heading for the complimentary bottle of red wine that had been left next to two glasses. “Drink?”

“No.” Max replied curtly.

“Fine.” Tess said, opening a bottle of red wine and pouring a glass for herself.

“That’s it. I’m calling reception.” Max announced, dialling the number.

“Mr Parker, how can I help you?” The receptionist answered.

“Hi. It appears that there has been a mistake. It seems Ms Harding, or whatever alias she is using today, has been checked into the same room as me.”

“Yes sir?” The receptionist said, not really sure what the problem was.

“Well, it is unacceptable. We are not a couple, and I resent the fact that the booking was changed without my authority.” Max replied.

“The booking has only ever been for one penthouse. Those were the instructions we received from Universal.” The receptionist explained.

“Well, can you fix it?” Max asked.

“I’m sorry Sir. We don’t have any other suites available. We are completely booked out.”

“That’s just great.” Max replied, but not yet resigned to have to share his room.

“Look. I’m not sharing my room with Ms Harding - she snores.” Max announced, to which he could hear the receptionist giggle on the other end.

“Max!” Tess exclaimed, accidentally spilling her glass of wine all over his shirt.

“Great, Tess, that’s just great.” Max muttered, watching the red wine soak into his favourite shirt.

“Look. I don’t care what you have to do. Move me to another hotel or something, but I am not sharing with Tess.” Max said to the receptionist. “Get this fixed and give me a call back.”

“Yes sir.” The receptionist said meekly before Max hung up the phone.

“God, Tess. Is there anything you touch that doesn’t turn to crap?” Max said, unbuttoning his shirt.

“Just get yourself a new one.” Tess said, referring to the shirt.

“I like this one.” Max replied, heading for the bathroom. He wasn’t going to mention the fact that it had been the shirt he had worn when he first met Liz. He wasn’t about to throw it away.

Max had begun running the water in the bathroom sink when he heard the phone ring.

“I’ll get it!” Tess called, and Max heard her pick it up.

“Hello?” Tess said.

And a second later …

“Who are you?” Tess retorted. Now Max was intrigued. It didn’t sound like Tess was talking to the receptionist.

“Tess… who’s on the phone?” Max asked, walking out of the bathroom to where Tess was standing in the living room.

“I don’t know.” Tess replied. “Go and finish running the bath and I’ll be right there.”

The blood drained from his face. There was only one explanation for Tess’ comment. He knew exactly what she wanted the person on the other end of the phone to believe was going on.

Max lunged for the phone, and grabbed it from Tess.

“Liz?” Max asked, but all he heard was the dial tone.

“This is beyond unbelievable.” Max said to Tess, who was looking smug.

“I can’t help it if she jumped to conclusions. She’s not very trusting of you is she?” Tess jabbed.

“Don’t even go there.” Max warned.

“What? Hit a nerve?”

“Shut up Tess.” Max begged.

“I’m just saying … how can you really love someone if you don’t trust them?” Tess continued.

Max turned and smiled at Tess – something she wasn’t expecting.

“Gee, Tess, really? So what do you make of the fact that I don’t trust you?”

Tess was lost for words momentarily – but only momentarily.

“I’m going to make you trust me again.”

“I doubt that. And even if you could, it’s not going to make a difference.” Max replied.

At that moment the door bell rang and Max opened it to find the bell boy there with their luggage.

“Don’t bother bringing hers in.” Max said, as the bell boy began unloading is cart. “She’s going to be staying elsewhere.”

“I thought you said you were leaving?” Tess pointed out to Max, at the same moment his mobile phone began to ring in the background. Torn between answering it in case it was Liz, and wanting to take the opportunity to get rid of Tess, he chose to let the phone ring out.

“You want me to trust you again? You can start by taking your things and giving me some space. Can I trust you to do that?” Max asked.

“Yes.” Tess replied meekly.

“Good. Now, I’m sure this nice young man will help you get a cab so you can find yourself another hotel.” Max said, tipping the bell boy an extra $100 bill.

“Yes sir, I’d be happy to.” The bell boy replied, holding the door open for Tess.

Tess took one last look at Max in case he was going to change his mind, but realising he was serious, she grabbed her purse, put her shoes back on, and left.

The moment she was gone, Max pulled his mobile phone out of his jacket pocket that was hung over the back of a chair. He had one missed call from Serena, but she hadn’t left a message. He debated trying to call Liz, but knew there must be a reason that Serena had called instead of Liz. He hit the call button and waited for Serena to answer.

“You’d better start explaining yourself mister.” Serena demanded before he could get a word in. And, he did.

* * * * *

“And that’s the story you’re sticking to?” Serena said, at the end of Max’s explanation.

“Just put Liz on the phone.” Max demanded impatiently, after getting no encouragement from Serena.

“I don’t think that’s a good idea…” Serena replied glancing at Liz.

“Why? Because you still think I did something wrong? I just told you …” Max started to protest.

“No. It’s not that. It’s just, well, in the space of time it took you to tell me that lovely little tale, Liz has consumed more than her fair share of alcohol for one evening.” Serena explained.

“I don’t wanna talk to him.” Liz slurred. “Tell him to go back to his lover.”

“Did you hear that?” Serena asked Max, who answered in the affirmative. “Perhaps you should call her in the morning.”

“That’s it - I’m coming home.” Max announced.

“You can’t just run back every time Liz hits the bottle.” Serena pointed out.

“But I’m the reason why she has.” Max replied.

“And what happens when you leave again? Liz needs more help than your or I can offer her.”

“Okay, okay. But Serena – will you try and make her find some help? Will you look after her while I’m not there?” Max asked.

“If you can stop finding yourself plastered through the tabloids, cavorting with your co-star, than I might have a better chance.” Serena countered.

“I’ll do my best. But Tess is relentless.”

“There’s one sure way to get around that…” Serena began.

“Yeah? What’s that?” Max asked.

“Never leave your room and put a great big lock on your door.”

“I’ll have to consider that.” Max replied. “Anyway, I’m going to have to run. I’ve got a television interview.”

“I guess you’ll have to implement our plan, of never leaving your room again, another day.”

“Sorry.” Max apologised, but with a smile on his face. “Tell Liz that I’ll call her later.”

“Will do. And I’ll attempt and sober her up for you.” Serena replied before hanging up the phone.

“What did he have to say for himself?” Liz slurred, staggering towards Serena in the kitchen with her bottle.

“I’m not telling you.” Serena replied haughtily.

“Why not?” Liz demanded.

“Because you are too drunk.” Serena said, taking the bottle from Liz.

“Am not.” Liz replied, trying to snatch the bottle back, but failing against Serena’s sobriety.

“Liz.” Serena stated, taking a moment to form the words. “I think you have a drinking problem.”

“I do - hiccup - not.” Liz retorted.

“Really? Okay. Then you won’t mind if I pour this down the sink?” Serena said, holding the bottle at an angle over the sink, so if she moved no more than a millimetre, the clear liquid would tip out.

“Of course not.” Liz replied, as if she didn’t care.

Serena tipped the bottle slightly.

“Wait!” Liz said urgently.

“Ahhh.” Serena replied knowingly.

“I don have a problem. I just don’t wanna see it go to waste.” Liz replied.

Serena began to pour the vodka down the drain.

“Okay, okay.” Liz said, and Serena stopped pouring. “Maybe I have been drinking a bit too much lately.”

“Admitting you have a problem is only half the battle.” Serena replied. “What are you going to do about it?”

“Have another drink?” Liz replied.

“Wrong answer.” Serena said, tipping the rest of the contents of the bottle down the drain.

“And what would the right answer be?”

“That you are going to seek professional help.”

“You mean like a shrink?” Liz said, screwing up her face.

“Or a counsellor.”

“And if I do this … you’ll get off my case?” Liz asked.

“Never.” Serena smiled. “But it will mean that I won’t make your life a living hell.”

“Looks like I’m getting counselling then.” Liz replied, not liking the alternative.

“Good girl. Now … would you like a strong cup of coffee?”

“Yes please.” Liz said, taking a seat at the kitchen bench, watching Serena boil the kettle.

“So what did Max say?” Liz asked, as Serena handed her the coffee.

“I think I’ll let him tell you himself.” Serena replied.

“But he didn’t do anything with Tess?” Liz pushed, desperately needing to know.

“Not unless you count kicking her sorry arse to kingdom come.” Serena replied.

“Honestly?” Liz chirped up.

“I wish I could have been there.” Serena replied looking off into the distance, as though picturing it happen.

Sorry for not updating last week - mild case of writers block. So I used the time to update 'Beware of the Phoenix'. I think I'm back on track now...

26

Liz woke with a pounding headache - but more than that - she woke with a sense of dread. She had a feeling that while she had slept heavily from the alcohol, she had glimpsed her future, and in it, she was alone.

* * * * *

“And now to entertainment news … in an exclusive television interview with Diane Whiteway of Canada’s ‘E News’, Max Evans has confirmed reports that Hollywood’s hottest couple have split…” The news presenter introduced the story.

“It’s about time.” Serena said, plonking herself down next to Liz who was on the sofa eating her breakfast.

“Shhh.” Liz said, wanting to hear the rest of the story.

“We just weren’t right for each other.” Max explained to Diane. “There comes a time when you realise that you are together for all the wrong reasons.”

“You go boy! Woohoo!” Serena cheered him on.

“What about the rumours that you have a new girlfriend? What can you tell me about her?” Diane asked.

Max smiled shyly before answering. “She’s great.”

“Can you tell me anything more? The entire world wants to know what kind of girl can capture the heart of Max Evans.” Diane prodded.

“Hopefully the world will be content just to know that at the moment I’m happy – we’re happy - and just want some privacy so we can get to know each other better.” Max replied.

“Speaking of privacy … what do you have to say about today’s photos of yourself and Tess?” Diane pried.

“All I’m going to say is that the break up with Tess was not necessarily mutual. Tess may be having a hard time dealing with it, and is trying to cling onto something that isn’t there anymore.”

“Well, unfortunately that’s all we have time for today. Thanks for taking the time to speak to us.” Diane thanked Max, before turning to the camera. “Next week we’ll be giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Max and Tess’ new movie, and we’re running a competition for two people to join us on set. All you need to do…”

Serena muted the television, but didn’t shut it off until Max’s image disappeared from the screen. When she did, Liz was able to turn her attention away from the TV.

“So – you still think something is going on between him and Tess?” Serena asked, hoping the interview had helped convince her that there was another explanation.

“That doesn’t prove anything …” Liz replied, although she could wipe the smile from her face.

“You’re hopeless.” Serena smiled back.

“I know.” Liz replied, before grabbing her mobile phone out of her pocket which had started vibrating. The caller ID said ‘Max – home’.

“Hello?” Liz said hesitantly.

“Hey Liz. It’s Isabel.” Isabel said.

“Oh, hey Isabel.” Liz replied, breathing a sigh of relief. She wasn’t quite ready to talk to Max yet. Every time she dared to think about him, she was filled with the same dread that she woke with.

“I was wondering if you wanted to meet for lunch today? You’re not working are you?” Isabel asked.

“I’d love to.” Liz replied, shaking her dark thoughts. “I’m not working until 4pm.”

“Great. How about you meet me down at ‘Pier 59 Café’? Say 12?”

“Sounds great.” Liz replied, as her phone started beeping, indicating that she was running out of battery on her phone. “Oh – I’ve gotta go. I’ll see you later Isabel.”

“Bye Liz.” Isabel signed off too.

“Hot date?” Serena asked.

“Yeah – do you wanna come?” Liz offered.

“Nah. Some of us have to work. Look at you – still in your pyjamas. What are cushy life you lead.” Serena teased.

“Any more smart comments like that and one of us won’t get Beef and Black Bean brought home for them for dinner tonight.” Liz teased in return.

“Oh please – don’t deny me my ‘BBB’.” Serena pleaded.

“Get to work.” Liz playfully slapped Serena before getting off the sofa to go and have her shower, as Serena got up to grab her keys and handbag to leave for work.

“Oh Liz.” Serena said, poking her head around the corner. “Don’t forget to call Max.”

“I won’t.” Liz replied, although not really enthusiastically. Looking at her phone she remembered it was getting low on power, so she plugged it into the charger before heading to the bathroom.

Deciding she had some time to kill, Liz decided to grab a trashy novel and have a nice hot bubble bath instead.

* * * * *

“Hi Isabel.” Liz greeted Isabel who was already seated. Liz was running late, having spent way too long in the bath. Her skin was still wrinkly because of it.

“I love your bandana.” Liz complimented. Isabel had started wearing bandanas to cover up here patchy hair, and always seemed to be wearing a different one.

“Thanks Liz.” Isabel blushed, although not really feeling too beautiful at that moment.

“You’re welcome. Have you eaten here before?” Liz asked, wanting to change the subject since she seemed to be making Isabel uncomfortable.

“Yeah, it’s one of Max’s favourite cafes, we used to come here all the time - well – until he discovered your restaurant of course.”

Liz’s face dropped at the mention of Max’s name. She still hadn’t called him, but then again, he hadn’t called her either.

“What’s wrong?” Isabel asked, noticing the look that had passed over Liz’s face.

“You haven’t spoken to Max since he left yesterday?” Liz asked.

“No, I spent the day at our folks’ house, and he knows that I go to bed early, so he wouldn’t have called after I got home. What happened?” Isabel asked.

“It’s a long story.” Liz explained.

“He didn’t tell you about the magazine did he?” Isabel guessed.

“That was part of it.” Liz replied.

“What’s the other part?” Isabel asked concerned.

“I called him at his hotel to talk about it, and Tess answered the phone.”

“I’m sure nothing was going on…” Isabel replied.

“They were running a bath.” Liz stated.

“Oh… Are you sure?” Isabel asked.

“Yeah. Well … that’s what it sounded like.”

“How did he explain it?” Isabel asked.

“I haven’t spoken to him yet. He called, but I was … indisposed.” Liz explained, and Isabel didn’t pry. She had seen enough of Liz’s drinking habits to know what she meant.

“Serena spoke to him and told me that there is a reasonable explanation. I just don’t know what it is. I’ve been waiting for him to call, but he hasn’t yet.” Liz said, reaching for her phone. “Damn, I think I left my phone on the charger at home.”

“Well … maybe he has called then.” Isabel suggested.

“Yeah, maybe.” Liz conceded.

As if they had summoned him by talking about him, Isabel’s mobile phone began to ring and displayed Max’s caller ID.

“Max. Hi.” Isabel said as she answered the phone. “What’s up?”

“Have I seen Liz?” Isabel repeated, looking at Liz for an indication as to what Liz wanted her to say. Liz looked at Isabel indifferently. She wasn’t going to make her lie to her brother, so she left the decision up to Isabel as to what she wanted to say.

“Yeah, I’ve seen her.” Isabel said, not completely the whole truth.

“She’s okay… I think she mentioned something about her phone being flat, that’s probably why she hasn’t been answering your calls … no I don’t think she’s purposely been avoiding you.” Isabel replied to Max’s interrogation.

“… Well what the hell was Tess doing in your room in the first place?” Isabel asked. Max had obviously been telling her what had been going on.

“… That bitch.” Isabel replied, and Liz got more interested in the conversation. “Well where is she now? … Good … okay … okay … I’ll tell her to call you if I see her… okay … bye.”

“Well?” Liz asked.

“Apparently, Tess managed to get them booked into the same hotel room.”

“And the bath?” Liz prodded.

“Well, while Max was on the phone to the receptionist of the hotel to sort it out, Tess spilled red wine on his favourite shirt. He was in the bathroom trying to get the stain out when Tess answered the phone, and well, made you think something was going on.”

“So they’re still sharing a hotel room?”

“No. Max kicked her out and made her change hotels.”

“Oh.” Liz said, mulling it over. She had jumped to conclusions and hadn’t trusted him. She had to be the world’s worst girlfriend. Why couldn’t she trust her heart? Why couldn’t she feel like she was enough to make Max happy?

“What’s going through your head at the moment?” Isabel asked concerned. “You look like your mind is running a thousand miles an hour.”

“I’m thinking to myself … I think I need to get some help.”

“Sorry, what?” Isabel asked, thinking she had misheard. That wasn’t what she was expecting. She thought Liz would blow up over Max’s recent behaviour … for the kiss … the magazine … the hotel room. But here she was believing that she was the one in the wrong.

“I’m not coping with all of this. And it’s not just the fact that Max is a big movie star, and I keep finding awful photos of myself splashed across the tabloids… I’m just not ready for a relationship.”

“What do you mean you’re not ready?” Isabel asked confused. “I hope you don’t mind me asking.” She quickly added.

“Max didn’t tell you?” Liz asked.

“Tell me what?” Isabel asked in return.

“That I was raped.” Liz replied bluntly. She wasn’t even going to attempt to sugar-coat it.

“Liz!” Isabel exclaimed. “I’m so sorry.”

“Nevermind. It happened a long time ago.” Liz brushed off Isabel’s pity. “The point is, I haven’t dealt with it… but I need to. I promised Serena that I would go and see someone … I would try and get some help. And I owe it to Max too.”

“I think it is a good idea Liz. But don’t think for a second that you owe anything to anyone. You need to do it for yourself, and only you.”

“I know – you’re right. I just … I just care for your brother so much, but I can feel him slipping away from me.” Liz admitted.

“He’s not going anywhere. He loves you.” Isabel said with conviction.

“But for how long?” Liz scoffed.

Isabel didn’t know what to say. She hadn’t realised that Liz had such a low opinion of her own self worth.

“That’s enough talk about me.” Liz stammered, hesitating to look Isabel in the eye. “What’s going on with you? How have you been feeling?”

“I’m alright. But I’m about to have my last lot of Chemo.”

“So they think you’re getting better?” Liz asked hopefully.

“Either that, or they are giving up on me.” Isabel replied.

“Oh, Isabel …” Liz sympathised.

“It’s okay …” Isabel said with a faltering voice. “I just wish Max was here with me. He always knew how to cheer me up and make me forget all about my problems.”

“Would you accept me as a poor substitute? I’ll come to the hospital with you.” Liz offered.

“Thank you Liz. I would love the company.” Isabel accepted.

“So, now that’s sorted … what else has been happening in your life?” Liz asked.

“Well … I’ve been seeing someone.” Isabel replied blushing.

“Really? Who?” Liz asked.

“You’re friend, Alex.”

“Alex? Really? Wow. That’s great.” Liz replied. She had been so caught in herself that she hadn’t noticed Isabel and Alex getting together. Thinking back on it though, she had noticed they spent a lot of time talking alone at the karaoke party.

“I know. I’m so happy. He’s such a nice guy. He doesn’t even mind that my hair is falling out, or that some days I don’t even have the strength to get out of bed. I’ve never met anyone like him.” Isabel grinned.

“I have - your brother.” Liz smiled.

“Okay … I’ve never me anyone like him who isn’t directly related to me.” Isabel corrected with a smile. “And on that note - I’ve really gotta go pee.” Isabel announced, jumping out of her chair. “The damn Chemo has given me a weak bladder.”

Liz smiled as she watched Isabel make a bee-line for the ladies room.

After a few minutes Isabel’s mobile phone began to ring again. It had Max’s caller ID. Liz debated for a moment as to whether she should answer it or not. Making a snap decision, she picked up the phone.

“Hello?” She said.

“Hey … uh … Isabel?” Max asked confused.

“No … um … it’s Liz.”

“Liz! I’ve been trying to call you all morning. Have you been with Isabel this whole time?”

“Don’t be mad at her for not telling you.” Liz pleaded.

“No … of course not. I’m just really glad to hear your voice. I’m so sorry.”

“Me too.” Liz replied.

“I need to explain …” Max began.

“No. You really don’t. I’ve heard enough from Serena and Isabel to understand what happened.”

“I know what it must have looked like …”

“But I should have heard your side of the story first, without jumping to conclusions. Especially after I promised you I wouldn’t. But Max … you really should have told me about the magazine…”

“I know. I’m so sorry that I didn’t.” Max said sorrowfully.

“Why didn’t you? Why didn’t you tell me about the kiss the night it happened?”

“Because I didn’t want to worry you over nothing. And it was that – nothing.”

“Then why hide it from me as though you were guilty of something?” Liz asked.

“I didn’t do anything wrong.” Max defended himself, a little too strongly. “I just wanted to protect you. I didn’t want to give you a reason to have another drink.”

“And that leads me to what I need to say to you…” Liz began. “I can’t live like this.”

“Liz, no!” Max replied, fearing what Liz was about to say.

“Let me finish.” Liz pleaded. “I love you. I just can’t believe that you could love me back. I don’t believe in my own worth – and without that, I can’t trust you to love me. And that means… I can’t love you like you deserve.”

“What are you saying?” Max asked desperately. “Do you want to break up with me?”

“No.” Liz replied adamantly. “I just can’t take this, us, any further until I fix myself. I can’t run to the alcohol every time something goes wrong. I need to come to terms with the past that I have been running from all of these years. And I can’t do that when I’m constantly worried about what you are doing or who you are with. I need to concentrate on me for a while. I need to take a step back. We need to take a step back. You need to take some time to work through any feelings you may still have for Tess.”

“I …” Max began to protest.

“Max. I know you said that it was over between you, but you ran after her at the party – you kissed her. There’s something still there, and you need to work out what it is. Whether your feelings towards her are hate … or hurt.”

“I can guarantee you that it’s the former.” Max promised.

“Well, use this time apart to prove it to me – and yourself.”

“And when I do, and you have dealt with your past … when you are no longer broken?” Max hesitated to ask.

“Then I’ll be coming for you.” Liz smiled.

“Okay.” Max conceded.

“Okay?” Liz replied, not expecting Max to take it so well.

“Okay. We’ll take a step back.” Max replied. “And when you are ready – I’ll be waiting for you.”

“Thank you Max.” Liz replied gratefully. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” Max replied, before hanging up.

Liz put Isabel’s phone down and began to sob. She knew she was doing the right thing, but she couldn’t help but be sad at being forced to take that step.

“Liz? Are you okay?” Isabel asked, putting a hand on Liz’s shoulder. “You spoke to Max?”

“Yeah.” Liz replied, wiping her eyes with her sleeve.

“Here…” Isabel said, handing Liz a tissue from her purse, which Liz took gratefully.

“I couldn’t help but overhear… Are you going to be okay?” Isabel asked.

“No. But I think I will be.” Liz gave a weak smile.

“And on that note – I know someone who you can talk to.” Isabel said, reaching into her purse for a business card. “She’s the perfect person to see in your condition.”

“My condition?” Liz asked.

“Yeah – tabloid fodder. She can be trusted.”

“Okay. I’ll give her a call.” Liz said, turning the card over in her hands. Thinking to herself, the sooner she makes the call, the sooner she can move on with Max. That’s if he’ll still have her…

Thanks for the feedback and bumps.

Sorry I took so long with this part but I've moved house (again!) and spent 10 beautiful days at Byron Bay where I couldn't drag myself away from the beach to post this chapter!

Now it's back to work and back to reality ...


27

“What’s going on? I thought we were shooting the ‘park-bench’ scene today?” Tess asked, after having stormed out of her trailer. She was not happy - you could practically see the flames shooting out of her ears.

“We were, but now we are shooting the ‘alley-way’ scene instead.” The director replied. He had been quietly joking around with Max while waiting for Tess to show up, and now that she was here, Max stopped joking and stood to attention.

“I demand to know why? And why wasn’t I consulted?” Tess demanded.

“We didn’t think you’d mind…” The director replied, wondering why she was getting so upset.

“We? Who’s we?” Tess demanded, and then noticed Max shift uncomfortably. “You? You did this?”

“Yeah. I thought that it made more sense to shoot the ‘alley-way’ scene today. Peter agreed with me.” Max admitted.

“Why?” Tess asked, her eyes narrowing.

“Because the way I’m feeling about you today, I could throttle you – and well, that’s exactly what the ‘alley-way’ scene calls for.” Max replied, before grinning. “It’ll be fun.”

“Fun? Fun?!” Tess replied. “I’m not letting you anywhere near my throat with the mood you’re in.”

“And whose fault is that?” Max retorted.

“I should be the one to throttle you. Do you understand what I went through yesterday? The whole town his practically booked out of any decent accommodation. I’ve had to share with Kiera.”

“Remind me to send Kiera some flowers to apologise for the imposition.” Max said, addressing Peter.

“You’re incorrigible!” Tess shouted.

“Glad you are finally coming around to my way of thinking. Starting to wonder what you ever saw in me, hey? Good. Then maybe you’ll leave me the hell alone. Now – can we start shooting this movie or not?” Max asked.

“Aarrghh!” Tess screamed before storming back to her trailer for her wardrobe change and makeup.

“I told you that we should have told her last night when we decided to switch scenes. It’s a shame she went to all that trouble having her hair and makeup done for nothing…” Peter smiled.

“Ohhh… but this was much more fun.” Max grinned.

* * * * *

“Hello Elizabeth. My name is Jan. Please take a seat.” The counsellor offered. “Do you prefer Elizabeth, Liz or Beth?”

“Liz is fine.” Liz replied, sitting down.

“Do you mind if I tape the session?” Jan asked. “I find it much easier to concentrate on you if I don’t have to scribble down notes. I promise complete anonymity.”

“That’s fine.” Liz agreed.

“So, Liz. Tell me. What brings you here today?” Jan began by asking.

“Well … four years ago … I was raped… And, well, I guess I’m just beginning to realise now how much it is impacting on my ability to live a normal life.” Liz began.

Liz began to tell Jan exactly what had happened and how she had left the country to escape it. Jan listened quietly, not interrupting, but giving a sympathetic and understanding ‘mmmhmm’ ever so often.

“I haven’t had a relationship with anyone since it happened. Well, I have never had a relationship with anyone, ever.” Liz explained. “And now I’ve met someone and it is forcing all of what happened back to the surface.”

“Tell me about this man that you have met…” Jan prompted.

“His name is Max, and he’s great…” Liz began, before she notice Jan’s mouth gaping. She had obviously joined the dots. Liz had noticed a well-read copy of the tabloid in the waiting room as she came in.

“Yes – Max Evans, the movie star.” Liz expanded.

“I knew I recognised your face from somewhere.” Jan replied, blushing. She had her fair share of celebrity clients, and was proud of the fact that she was never star struck, but this was Max Evans that they were talking about …

“Is that going to be a problem?” Liz asked. She was confused - Isabel had promised her that this woman could be trusted.

“Of course not.” Jan replied. “Now where were we?”

“You asked me about Max. Well, I don’t know what you want to know. We met on a flight from London to LA. We talked on the plane, he came to see me a couple of days later at the restaurant that I work at, and I guess we just hit it off.”

“And have you told him about your … past?” Jan asked, looking for the right word.

“Yes.”

“And what was his reaction?”

“He was great. He sympathised, told me to take all the time I needed to work through things, and he wouldn’t push me for anything until I was ready.”

“Whey you say ‘anything’… you mean?” Jan prompted.

“Sex. He wouldn’t push me for sex.” Liz blushed.

“And have you had sex since you were raped?” Jan asked.

“No. I hadn’t even kissed a guy until I met Max. That must sound like I’m such a prude…” Liz said embarrassed.

“Not at all.” Jan replied. “I’ve seen many girls in your situation who won’t even allow themselves to be alone in the same room as another man, even their own family members. By exploring this relationship with Max you are already taking giant steps to healing.”

“But I take one step forward, and something happens to freak me out and I feel like I’m taking two giant leaps backwards.” Liz explained.

“What kinds of things freak you out?” Jan asked.

“Max’s old girlfriend for starters.”

“Tess Harding?” Jan asked.

“Yeah. Sometimes I wonder whether they are really over, or whether Max is just upset at Tess cheating on him like she did. I wonder whether one day her persistence will pay off and he’ll realise that he is still in love with her.”

“But he has made a commitment to you?” Jan prodded.

“Well, yeah, I guess you can say that. That’s why I feel like I need someone to help me. I should be able to trust him … I should give him the benefit of the doubt … I should be able to feel as though someone could love me enough to choose me over her.”

“Are there other things that - how did you phrase it? Uh, ‘freak you out’?” Jan asked.

“Well, sometimes when I am alone with Max, I start to panic. I know he’s not going to hurt me, but I can’t help feeling afraid of letting someone close to me – of giving them any kind of power over me.”

“That’s understandable …” Jan sympathised.

“But I should want to be alone with him – normal girls my age are meeting guys and falling in love and getting married. It took all of my strength just to allow someone close enough to kiss me!”

“You’ve been through a traumatic experience. You had someone take your ability to trust away from you…”

“And it wasn’t fair … this isn’t how my life was supposed to be …”

“How was it supposed to be?” Jan prodded.

“I was supposed to go to TAFE to become a chef … I was supposed to meet a boy and fall in love … I was supposed to get married and have a beautiful white wedding with my parents giving me away …”

“And how much of that has not happened?” Jan asked.

“Well … I guess, just the marriage part. But it wasn’t supposed to be like this. I was supposed to lead a normal life.”

“Do you still have any contact with your parents?” Jan asked, changing the subject.

“No.” Liz replied softly, as if sorry to admit it.

“Why is that?” Jan prodded.

“Because I’m not their perfect little daughter anymore.” Liz replied.

“Because you were raped?”

“Because of the person I became after I was raped.” Liz clarified.

“And what kind of person was that?”

“The kind that no longer had the same beliefs as she had when she was their little girl. The kind that no longer believed in their God.” Liz admitted.

“Why do you no longer believe in God?”

“Because he let this happen to me. Because I see bad things happen every day to good people. I can’t believe that there is a God that would let these things happen.” Liz replied, trying not to cry.

“But why stop contact with your parents? That would understand…”

“No. No they wouldn’t.” Liz replied adamantly. “Ever since I could remember we went to church every Sunday. We said ‘Grace’ before every meal’. We said our prayers before we went to bed. They wouldn’t understand what it is like not to believe anymore…”

“But surely they would still want you in their life, even if they couldn’t understand…” Jan suggested.

“You don’t know my parents.” Liz replied.

“What about friends?” Jan said, feeling as though they should move on and work on Liz’s relationship with her parents in a future session. It was obviously too sore a point at the moment.

“I live with Serena. I’ve lived with her practically since I moved to LA. She’s great. I couldn’t ask for a better friend.” Liz said, cheering up. “And then there’s Max and Isabel, oh, and Alex and Michael, and my best friend from Australia has just arrived - Sean’s sister.”

“And how is your relationship with her?” Jan prodded. Best friends with her rapist’s sister? That was new.

“It’s okay. I mean … I’m glad to see her again, but it’s been a few years … we’re different people now. Well, honestly, I’m different now.”

“People grow apart. It happens.” Jan explained.

“Yeah, I guess. But I guess I feel guilty that it is my fault that we grew apart. I was the one who left and didn’t keep in contact.” Liz admitted.

“What about the fact that she is Sean’s sister? Has that had an effect on your relationship?” Jan asked.

“Well, yeah. I suppose it does. I think, deep down, I blame her a little for letting this happen to me. She was home when it happened and didn’t hear me struggle; she didn’t think that leaving me alone with her brother was a problem. But she should have known what he was like!” Liz replied, getting a little heated.

“But didn’t you tell me earlier that you had always felt safe with Sean, despite the rumours about him? People like Sean generally have a way of hiding who they really are from the people around them. Maria may not have ever had a clue what was going on in her brother’s life – or what type of person she had become.”

“I know … you’re right. Maria isn’t to blame. I just need to blame someone – because that makes this a little easier to deal with.” Liz replied.

“Well it sounds like you have a good network of friends now. They can help you through this. I’m sure they have already started trying.” Jan suggested.

Liz thought about Max, Isabel and Serena, who had all been so good to her since she told them about her past.

“Yeah, they have.” Liz smiled.

* * * * *

“Please take your hands off me.” Tess pleaded.

“There was a time not so long ago when you were begging me to touch you.” Max whispered in her ear. He had her petite figure pinned against the wall, and his hands were around her wrists.

“You’re not the same person you were then.” Tess replied. “I barely recognise you now. What happened to you?”

“You have no right to ask me that.” Max snarled. “But since you want to know… it was you. You did this to me.”

“What did I do?” Tess asked hesitantly.

“You showed me how naïve I was to think that what we had was real. You opened my eyes to how cruel the world could be – and now … now I can’t close my eyes to it.”

“And how did I manage all this?” Tess asked, completely clueless how her actions could have impacted on him so deeply.

“You slept with Tom.” Max replied shortly.

“I… I didn’t.” Tess denied fervently after recovering from a moments shock.

“Don’t deny it!” Max raised his voice, pushing her wrists against the brick wall behind her, until he could see the pain in her eyes.

“I swear I didn’t…” Tess denied again, almost crying.

“I saw you!”

“When? When did you see us?” Tess retorted. “The last time I saw you was when I saw your back as you walked out on me. You didn’t even give me an explanation!”

“Why do you think I left? I wasn’t going to spend one more second with someone who clearly didn’t want to be with me!” Max growled, pushing Tess further into the wall.

“Cut!” Tess called, giving a pleading look at the director.

“What’s wrong?” Peter asked. “That was fantastic! You could see the emotion on both of your faces. Brilliant!”

“Well I think Max was getting a little too into his character.” Tess replied, prying herself away from Max.

“What can I say? I can relate to him.” Max grinned. He had enjoyed that way too much.

“And I suppose these cuts on my hands from the brick wall are just part of helping Max get into character?” Tess replied, holding up her bleeding knuckles from where the skin had rubbed away on the wall.

Peter shot a warning glance at Max, who quietly slipped away into the background, suddenly feeling guilty for taking it too far.

“Take five everyone!” Peter shouted to the crew, before assisting Tess to find the on-set doctor.

Max slumped in the corner. He shouldn’t let Tess get to him so much, but this movie seemed to be art imitating life. He was using it to let out all of the anger he held for Tess, with the excuse that it was what the role required. The storyline was so close to home that it was almost laughable. Although, he was damn sure he wasn’t going to let his life end the same as the movie – with Tess, and without Liz. No matter what Liz suggested, he harboured no feelings for Tess, well, besides perhaps hate.

He wondered how Liz was doing. They hadn’t spoken since the call yesterday when she had told him that she needed to take a step back. He hadn’t dared call her, but pulled out his mobile every chance he got to check to see if she had called him. As usual, his voice had zero voicemails and zero missed calls.

Max put his phone back into his pocket and sighed. The thing that had him worried the most was not that Liz was asking for a bit of space. He understood that. It was that when she came back, what was she going to think of him when she saw his movie. It wasn’t exactly the lightest subject matter, and given her past … he just didn’t want her to think any less of him.

Hi all. As always, thanks for all the feedback - keep it coming!

sprayadhesive - there's a little dreamer bone for you today...


28

“Liz, hi!” Max greeted cheerfully, after having seen Liz’s name appear on his caller ID. He had been lying in bed thinking about her as he flicked through the channels on the TV, unable to sleep, and unable to find anything decent to watch.

“Hey.” Liz greeted in return. “How are you?”

“I’m good. You?” Max asked, savouring the sound of her voice. He missed her so much that he felt as though he would burst out of his skin in anticipation of hearing her voice again.

“I’m really good actually.” Liz admitted. “I went and spoke to a therapist today, and it is such a relief just to start working through everything.”

“That’s great Liz. I’m really glad.” Max smiled.

“Anyway, I just wanted to call to tell you that.”

“I’m glad you did Liz. I’ve missed you.” Max admitted, wondering if that was stepping over the boundaries Liz had set for them.

“I’ve missed you too.” Liz replied, to which Max breathed a sigh of relief. “Sorry I didn’t call you earlier but I went straight from my session to work. I’ve only just gotten home now. I’m so exhausted.”

“I just assumed that you were taking some space.” Max admitted.

“Just because we’ve agreed to take a step back, doesn’t mean that we can’t still talk as friends.” Liz announced. “I’d miss not being able to talk to you everyday.”

“Me too.” Max smiled.

“So how was your day?” Liz asked, making herself comfortable on the sofa.

“It was okay. First day of shooting is always a little weird as all the cast and crew are still getting to know each other.” Max replied, shifting the pillows that he was sitting up against, to get more comfortable.

“Tell me about the scene. What was it about?” Liz asked.

“Well…” Max began, wondering just how much to tell Liz. He really didn’t want her to know how much he had lost control. “I got to yell and scream at Tess.”

“That would have been fun.” Liz replied, relieved at least that it wasn’t a love scene. She really didn’t need to hear about that.

“It was.” Max smiled, although not wanting to admit to Liz just how much he enjoyed it. Instead he began to tell Liz about the joke they had played on Tess with the scene-switch, until they were both in fits of laughter.

“So are you still worried about me and Tess?” Max asked Liz once they had both calmed down.

“Surprisingly less and less.” Liz replied honestly. Just talking to Max again made her realise that he couldn’t sound so desperately happy to hear from her if he was really harbouring feelings for someone else. Perhaps the therapy was working already to settle her insecurities.

“I’m glad to hear it.” Max replied. “So tell me about your day… Apart from the therapy session, what did you get up to?”

“Just work – the usual.” Liz replied. “Had a quiet night so I worked on some new recipes for the specials board.”

“Have you managed to add Bangers and Mash to the menu yet?” Max asked.

“Still working on getting permission for that one – Amy’s not keen.” Liz smiled, remembering the conversations she and Max had when they first met. It seemed so long ago now. “I was actually working on a new breakfast item – stacked pancakes with bacon, poached eggs, banana and maple syrup.”

“Together? Are you nuts?” Max replied astonished.

“Well I am in therapy …” Liz joked. “Besides, you shouldn’t knock it until you try it. Sweet and salty.”

“I think I’ll just have to trust you on that one.” Max smiled, still unconvinced.

“So what are you shooting tomorrow?” Liz asked, settling down deeper into the sofa. It was late and she was tired from her shift, but she wasn’t ready to hang up just yet.

“No speaking parts tomorrow. I think they’ll probably be shooting various images of me brooding over my coffee or something.”

“Sounds boring.” Liz replied honestly.

“Tell me about it… I’d much rather be with you, being the one to try out your new taste sensations.” Max replied.

“So when do they have you shooting the action shots?” Liz asked, unable to disguise a yawn.

“No action scenes in this movie unfortunately… hey, are you getting tired?” Max asked.

“No…” Liz replied, yawning again.

“I should let you go…” Max offered, not wanting to keep Liz up. He knew what late hours she kept at the restaurant – she needed as much sleep as she could.

“Don’t go yet.” Liz replied. “Please keep talking to me until I fall asleep.”

“Okay.” Max replied smiling, picturing Liz curling up on the sofa and her eyes fluttering to a close.

“I went for a jog this morning around Stanley Park… around 5 in the morning before the crowds were out and about. I practically had the whole park to myself. It was beautiful… the track follows the river on three sides and in the middle they have this place that has a Killer whale and these other white whales called Beluga whales…” Max began talking randomly about his morning. “Anyway, these Beluga whales apparently love to play, and there have been cases of these whales being found floating around the arctic with a pair of reindeer horns on their head. Amazing. I was just running past when the staff were getting ready to feed the animals, so they let me come in to watch them, it was really cool. This movie star thing pays off occasionally …”

There was only the sound of breathing on the other end of the phone.

“Liz?” Max asked quietly. “Are you asleep?”

But there was no reply.

“Goodnight Liz. Sweet dreams…” Max smiled, and when he was completely sure she was asleep, he added “I love you.”

* * * * *

“Goodmorning!” Liz said bouncing into the kitchen where Serena was falling asleep over the morning paper.

“Someone’s in a good mood.” Serena commented. “Where’s the moping roommate I’ve gotten so used to?”

“No moping today sorry.” Liz replied, pulling the juice out of the fridge and drinking it straight from the carton. Serena just looked at her in shock – she had never in her life seen Liz not get herself a glass to pour the juice into first.

“What?” Liz asked, realising Serena was staring her in confusion.

“Who are you and what have you done with Liz?” Serena asked.

“I’m just in a good mood that’s all.”

“Spill.” Serena demanded – there had to be a reason for the sudden change in behaviour.

“I spoke to Max last night.” Liz explained.

“I thought you two had taken a step back?” Serena asked.

“I think Vancouver is far enough of a step, don’t you?” Liz replied. “Besides, we just talked about our day – nothing more.”

“So what’s gotten you so chirpy then?” Serena asked.

“I just slept well, that’s all.” Liz replied, trying to remember exactly what she had dreamt, but all she could remember was something absurd about whales with horns.

“Uh, huh. Well, some of us have to go to work, so I’d better get going. What are you doing today anyway?” Serena asked, noticing that Liz was wearing tracksuit pants and sneakers.

“I have a self defence class. Part one of three homework assignments for the week. My therapist thought it would be a good idea to ‘help me feel less like a victim’.” Liz quoted.

“That’s what mace is for.” Serena replied, pulling some out of her purse as a demonstration. “So what’s part two??”

“I have to attend a support group meeting.” Liz said, screwing up her nose.

“What’s the face for? It’s a great idea.” Serena replied.

“Theoretically, but I’m picturing candles and vigils and a lot of bonding.”

“Where’d you get that idea from?” Serena asked.

“Um, an episode of ‘Beverley Hills 90210’.” Liz blushed.

“I’m going to pretend that I didn’t hear that.” Serena replied. “And, instead, I’ll offer to go with you. Then, if it’s lame, we can make a run for it together.” Serena offered.

“Thanks Serena.” Liz smiled. “I’d feel much better if I wasn’t on my own.”

“No probs. But I’m scared to ask … what is part three?” Serena asked about Liz’s other homework assignment.

“Ihavetogiveupdrinking.” Liz mumbled.

“I’m sorry, what? It sounded as though you said you have to give up drinking.”

“I did, and I do. Temporarily anyway, just until I sort myself out.” Liz replied.

“Well, I think it’s a great idea.” Serena replied. “But I hope you’ll still come to the club with me on Friday.”

“Of course. I am capable of going out and having a good time without alcohol.” Liz replied defensively.

Serena just mumbled and looked away with the excuse of reaching for her bag, so Liz couldn’t see the momentarily look of doubt on her face.

“Well, I’ll see you tonight after your shift. Have fun. Make sure you beat the crap out of someone for me.”

“Will do.” Liz smiled. She was going to enjoy this.

* * * * *

“So where are we going exactly?” Liz asked Maria as they were getting into the car. She was surprised to find not only Michael, but Alex and Isabel too.

“Michael has a friend he met during his security training who runs self defence classes who has agreed to give us private lessons.”

“Cool. Thanks Michael.”

“No probs.”

“And what are you guys here for?” Liz asked, turning to Alex and Isabel in the back seat. “Are you doing the class too?”

“Michael and I are helping out by being stalkers for you to practice on.” Alex said, puffing up his chest. “Isabel here is coming just for the entertainment value.”

“Alex!” Isabel exclaimed, good-heartedly swiping Alex, knowing he was teasing Liz. “What Alex meant to say was that I’m here to see Alex get beaten up by a girl.”

“Hey!” It was Alex’s turn to exclaim.

“Well, I don’t care why, I’m just glad you guys are here. Thanks for coming.”

“No probs.” Alex and Isabel said in unison.

When they reached the gym, Michael led them past various steroid-enhanced guys who were working out, to the back room where they would do their training. Maria jabbed Liz in the ribs and indicated to one of the guys flexing his muscles.

“Please tell me the instructor is that guy.” Maria drooled. “I’d throw him over my shoulder any day.”

Liz just smiled, but deep down wished that she wouldn’t have a guy that looked like that touching her.

As they walked into the training room, Maria’s jaw dropped. There was Michael greeting their trainer with a kiss on the cheek.

“Hey everyone, this is Robyn. Robyn, this is everyone.” Michael introduced. “She’s going to be giving us the self defence lesson today.”

“She?” Maria muttered under her breath to Liz. “I don’t recall Michael saying anything about it being a woman.”

“I don’t think he specified. Maybe you just assumed it would be a guy.” Liz consoled. She wasn’t sure if Maria was more put out by not being able to salivate over one of the guys in the gym, or by Michael’s very friendly greeting of this very beautiful woman.

“So, who are my participants today?” Robyn said, walking over to Liz, Maria and Isabel.

“Us.” Liz said indicating to herself and Maria, trying to ignore the look on Maria’s face that suggested that she would back out at any moment if it wasn’t for the fact that she had promised Liz.

“Excellent. Let’s get started.”

An hour later, Liz had Michael pinned to the ground in a headlock, and Maria was attempting to throw Alex over her shoulder. Either Maria hadn’t quite mastered the technique, or Alex was a lot less scrawny than he looked.

“Why don’t I show you again?” Robyn said, indicating to Maria that she would take her place. Within seconds, she had flipped Alex over her shoulder and had him pinned to the ground with her foot on his chest. “See?”

Maria grumbled something in reply before having another attempt.

Meanwhile, Liz and Michael were attempting to have a conversation, besides the fact that Liz had almost cut off Michael’s windpipe.

“Thanks for organising this for me again Michael. It was really sweet of you.” Liz began.

“It’s no problem.” Michael said hoarsely. “Besides, it’s all part of the job. Just don’t put me out of business!”

“I can’t see that happening. I don’t think Max would allow it anyway.” Liz replied.

“Yeah, he’s a bit protective isn’t he?” Michael croaked.

“Speaking of protective…” Liz began. “I’m not sure Maria is too keen on your friendship with Robyn.”

“She doesn’t see me getting all jealous over her friendship with, oh I don’t know, Alex?”

“No offence to Alex, but I don’t really think that’s really an equal comparison.” Liz smiled.

“Maybe not. But I should be able to have friends who are girls, and Maria shouldn’t get all hot under the collar about it.” Michael explained. “She needs to trust me to do the right thing.”

“True.” Liz agreed, and began to think about her own reaction to Max’s relationship with Tess. Was it the same thing? Was her issue not her own insecurities, but the fact that she didn’t trust Max?

“Hey Liz?” Michael whispered, breaking her from her thoughts. “Can I ask you something?”

“Sure. Anything.” Liz smiled.

“Can you let me go? I think I’m about to pass out.”

“Sorry.” Liz replied, immediately letting Michael out of the headlock.

“Well Liz, I think you’ve mastered that.” Robyn said, helping a wheezing Michael off the ground. “Let’s move on.”

* * * * *

Meanwhile Max was staring at his coffee. He had been staring at the same mug for the last hour and he was beginning to see images of Liz in the froth. He smiled to himself at the thought of Liz. She had sounded so happy on the phone, making him feel more confident that their future together would happen sooner rather than later.

“Cut!” Peter called.

“What?” Max asked, looking up from his coffee.

“See the script? It says ‘Max sits in a coffee shop angry and confused about the return of Tess into his life.’ It does not say ‘Max sits in the coffee smiling to himself because he got laid the night before.” Peter pointed out. “Do you think we can try it again?”

“Sorry. It won’t happen again. And for the record, I didn’t get laid, I’m just a naturally happy person.”

“Whatever. Let’s just get the shot so we can move on.” Peter smiled.

“Scene 5 take 12.” The slapper called.

Max stared into his, now cold, coffee and thought about Tess. He felt the hairs bristle on the back of his next at the thought of her. He had gone to her room to apologise for his actions the previous day, and she lost no time in trying to make a move on him. The memory of her hands on his chest made his skin crawl. He had managed to make a quick exit, thanks to the sudden entrance of Kiera, to whom he now definitely owed a bunch of flowers at the very least.

Tess made him so angry by her continued relentlessness. Why wouldn’t she just get the hint and leave him alone? Holding his head in his hands, Max rubbed his temples as though trying to rid himself of a headache, wondering how Tess managed to tie his head up in so many knots.

“Cut. That’s a wrap.” Peter called out, and the crew immediately began dismantling the equipment.

“That was more like it Max.” Peter said, slapping Max on the back. “Now you can go back to being that ‘naturally happy person’ you are.”

Max laughed, but wondered if it was even possible now he had so many thoughts of Tess running through his head.

Had a little extra time on my hands this week ...


29

“So I’ve got magazines, CD’s, DVD’s, crosswords, a deck of cards, snacks, extra pillows and a rug.” Liz announced, walking into Isabel’s hospital room. “Did I forget anything?”

“No, I think you’ve got it covered.” Isabel smiled. And to think she had been anxious that Max wouldn’t be with her for her last course of treatment? Liz was definitely doing a sufficient job making up for his absence.

Alex had wanted to come too, but Isabel wouldn’t let him. She wasn’t ready for him to see her when she was so sick. She liked the fact the Alex got to see her when she was happy and somewhat normal. Who really wanted their new boyfriend seeing them throwing up and in pain.

“So what happens now?” Liz asked looking nervously at all the equipment by Isabel’s bed.

“The nurses will come and hook me up, and then we just wait until it’s all over.” Isabel replied confidently, as though it was no big deal. However, Liz could still hear the catch in Isabel’s throat that gave her away.

As if on cue, the nurses entered the room and began to connect the machines. Liz turned away to give Isabel some privacy. She really hoped that this was the last of the treatment and the doctors would give Isabel a full bill of health. It wasn’t fair that she had to go through this at such a young age, when she should be out having fun, falling in love, and living life to the fullest.

At least Isabel had Alex. Liz had watched them the day before at the self-defence class. When they thought no one was watching, Alex would hold Isabel’s hand in his and write messages on her palm with the tip of his finger. Liz had seen Isabel blush on a number of occasions, and had felt a pang of loneliness herself. She wished that her relationship with Max could have been easier. She wished her life was different.

But then she had thought of Isabel, and was reminded that in comparison, what happened to her in the past was nothing compared to what Isabel was going through right now. Isabel coped because there was no one to blame but God, although Liz knew exactly how unproductive that was. At least Liz had someone else to blame. What happened to her was not done by an unseen hand – it was done by Sean. And Liz could lash out her anger towards him.

With that thought in mind, Liz had begun throwing punching at the closest punching bag, knocking Michael off his feet as the bag flew back from Liz’s attack. Liz had felt better. Michael had felt a little sorry for himself.

“Earth to Liz?” Isabel said, bringing Liz’s thoughts back to the present. “Where did you go?”

“Sorry, just lost in thought.” Liz apologised. “So what do you want to do now?”

“Anything. Just keep me distracted.”

“How about we start with a game of cards?” Liz suggested.

“Sounds good.” Isabel smiled, taking her place on the bed, while Liz sat down by her feet, having wheeled the bedside table between them.

“So. What do you know how to play?” Liz asked.

“Strip poker?” Isabel replied with a smile, grinning at Liz’s shocked expression. “Don’t look at me like that. I did have some fun in college before I got sick. But anyway, since I’m only wearing a hospital gown, I think you would have an unfair advantage.”

“Okay, how about the normal-run-of-the-mill-clothes-stay-on-poker?” Liz asked.

“Good idea. You never know who could just walk in.” A voice came from the door.

“Max?” Isabel’s face brightened immediately. “What are you doing here?”

“You didn’t think I would leave you to do this by yourself did you? But I see you’ve found a good substitute.” Max said, turning to take a good look at Liz, taking in every detail so that he could remember her clearly when they were apart again.

“Hi Max.” Liz greeted Max shyly.

“Hey. How are you?” He asked.

“I’m good.”

“Good.” Max replied, not taking his eyes off her.

“Okay, you two can only stay here with me if you stop making goo-goo eyes at each other. It’s enough to put me off my food - that is if the Chemo hadn’t done it already.” Isabel interrupted.

“Sorry Iz.” Max apologised, putting some distance between himself and Liz, trying not to show how much it was killing him to do it.

“So what did I interrupt? Strip poker if I recall.” Max said, winking at Liz.

“In your dreams.” Isabel said slapping her brother. “We’re playing normal poker if you’d like to join us?”

“Depends.” Max replied, pulling up a seat next to Isabel’s bed, with Isabel and Liz down either end. “What are we playing for?”

“Uh … I have a box of tic-tacs.” Liz offered, pulling them out of her pocket.

“I’ll see your tic-tacs and raise you a buck forty-five.” Max replied, pulling out the change from his pocket.

“They let you into the country with a dollar forty-five to your name?” Liz asked incredulously. Normally customs expected you to at least be carrying enough for a taxi.

“I guess they figured I was good for it.” Max grinned.

“Okay, well all I’ve got is a couple of satchels of sugar and artificial sweetener.” Isabel said, reaching for the tray that had been left by her bed on the off chance she wasn’t feeling too nauseous for a coffee.

“Well, this won’t do.” Max announced. “How about we raise the stakes?”

“What did you have in mind?” Isabel asked.

“We use Liz’s tic-tacs as chips. The losers cook dinner for the person with the most tic-tacs at the end of the game, and a person of their choice of course.”

“That’s hardly fair. You both have a 66% chance of getting a free meal!” Isabel exclaimed.

“Well, who says I’m going to share my dinner with Liz?” Max grinned.

Liz playfully slapped Max at the suggestion that he would find another date, but felt her stomach lurch at the thought. Damn those insecurities.

“What?!” Max pretended to shield himself from her attack, grinning because Liz had taken the bait. “I might want to share it with my big sister.”

“Okay, okay. The deal is, the winner has dinner cooked for them, and they can’t share it with another person in the game. Got it?” Isabel set the ground rules to make it fair, although she was the only person in the room that would get to have dinner with the person she most wanted to.

“Deal.” Max replied.

“Deal.” Liz also replied, although not as convincing as Max. He had been too quick to give up the chance of having dinner with her.

Max dealt the cards and they began playing. It wasn’t until Isabel had won the first two rounds that anyone spoke.

“Lost your touch Max?” Isabel teased. “You used to gloat over the fact that you were such an awesome poker player.”

“I’m just warming up.” Max replied, dealing another hand.

“I think we need a new dealer…” Liz suggested after Isabel won the third game in a row.

“Are you suggesting something Liz Parker?” Max winked.

“Yeah, that you’re a bad shuffler.”

At that moment Liz’s mobile began to ring, and she quickly went to switch it off before the nurses told her off for using a mobile phone in a hospital. It was Alex, no doubt calling to check on Isabel. She would call him later. As she walked back to the bed, she noticed Max had been dealt a full-house. But in the next moment he was throwing out two cards and asking for another two from the pack. When they revealed their hands, he had one pair which wasn’t enough to beat Isabel’s two.

“Looks like you win again Isabel.” Max conceded.

“Well I’m out.” Liz sighed dramatically, having lost all her tic-tacs.

“Me too. Looks like you’ve won yourself a free dinner Isabel.”

“I guess luck has to go my way occasionally.” Isabel said, scooping up her tic-tacs.

Liz and Max just shared an understanding glance.

“Here.” Isabel said as she handed Max and Liz a tic-tac each. “Don’t spend it all at once.”

The three of them then spent the next five minutes discussing just what they could buy with their one tic-tac, well, until Max shoved them both in his mouth.

“Thief!” Liz exclaimed.

“Come and get it.” Max replied, poking out his tongue.

“Don’t tempt me.” Liz smiled, before reminding herself that kissing wasn’t part of the deal at the moment.

“Oh, I’m going to be sick.” Isabel interrupted.

“Sorry Iz.” Max replied, assuming she was referring to their goo-goo eyes again.

“No – I’m actually going to be sick.” Isabel said, reaching for one of the many sick bags that had been left by her bed.

Liz was immediately on her feet and pulling Isabel’s hair out of her face with one hand and reaching for a box of tissues with the other.

“Thanks Liz.” Isabel stammered, taking a tissue from Liz to clean herself up. Liz immediately followed up the tissues with a cup of water.

“Are you sure you really want to be here for this?” Isabel asked, worried that she was grossing Liz out.

“I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.” Liz smiled in reply.

At that moment Max quickly got up and left the room without a word.

“What’s got into him?” Isabel asked.

Liz just shrugged. She had no idea.

Liz packed away the poker game, and put on a DVD, wanting to give Isabel a chance to zone out a bit. Isabel shuffled over to make room for Liz, and they lay together staring up at Orlando Bloom, Johnny Depp and Kiera Knightly on the small 10 inch screen hanging from the ceiling.

As they lay there Liz began to wonder where Max had gone to. He had left so abruptly that it had her worried. It got to the point that she couldn’t concentrate on the movie, so as Kiera Knightly stepped onto the Black Pearl, Liz excused herself to go and find Max.

It turned out that Max wasn’t hard to find. As Liz stepped into the hallway, she almost tripped over Max where he was sitting on the floor.

“Max!” Liz exclaimed. “What are you doing down there?”

“I just had to get some air for a minute.” Max explained.

Liz slid down to take a seat next to him.

“It must be hard for you to see Isabel like that.” Liz said after a moment’s silence.

“It’s not that …” Max tried to explain. “I mean, it is hard, but that’s not why I had to get out of there.”

“Then why?” Liz asked hesitantly, wondering if she had done something wrong. Helping Isabel had been an automatic reaction – she hadn’t given it a second thought - but maybe she had unknowingly shunted Max from his position as Isabel’s primary carer.

“Nevermind… it’s nothing.” Max dismissed it.

“Please tell me.” Liz pleaded. She wanted to be there for him, to share whatever was upsetting him. To apologise if she had done something wrong.

Max looked at Liz for a moment, wondering whether he should tell her exactly what was on his mind. He didn’t want her to feel that he wasn’t confiding in her, but he didn’t want to freak her out either. In the end he decided that truth was always the best policy.

“I had to get out of there because seeing you with Isabel, seeing you care for her like that… it made me want to scoop you up into my arms and never let you go. It made me realise that you are the person I want to marry.” Max admitted, daring to look into Liz’s eyes for a second to gauge her reaction.

“Oh …” Liz replied, completely shocked, and looking away from his searching eyes. That wasn’t what she had expected him to say. She thought he was just upset about Isabel and the big unknown as to what this last treatment meant for Isabel’s future.

“And I know I’m not supposed to think that way – it’s against the rules. So I had to go somewhere where I couldn’t see your beautiful face…” Max said, brushing Liz’s hair away from her eyes, “… and your even more beautiful heart.” He said, placing his hand over her heart.

Liz flinched and Max snapped his hand away as thought he had been bitten.

“I’m sorry.” He apologised.

“No … it’s okay.” Liz promised. Damn her insecurities and her body’s automatic reactions.

“No it’s not Liz. I should go. This isn’t giving you the space you asked for.”

“Isabel needs you here.” Liz explained. ‘And I need you too.’ She thought. “…I’ll go.”

“No Liz. Isabel needs you here just as much as she needs me.” Max argued.

“So what are we going to do?” Liz asked.

“We’re going to behave as friends. Nothing more.” Max announced, trying not to let his voice hitch over the words as he said them.

Liz nodded, but didn’t say anything.

“We’d better go back in and check on Isabel.” Max said, rising to his feet. Holding out his hand to help Liz to her feet, and as they touched they both jumped at the electric shock that passed between them.

“Did you feel it?” Max breathed.

Liz nodded. Even their bodies couldn’t deny the chemistry between them.

Max reached for Liz’s hand again, and Liz hesitated momentarily wondering if they would create the same spark. They didn’t, so Max pulled Liz to her feet and couldn’t help but let his hand linger in hers for slightly longer than was necessary. When Liz eventually pulled her hand away, Max acutely felt the loss of her touch.

“Max, before we go back, I just wanted to say, that was a nice thing you did for Isabel – letting her win the poker game.” Liz said.

“I didn’t do it for Isabel.” Max replied softly. “If I wasn’t going to win a dinner with you, I was at least going to take the next best option – spending the night in the kitchen together.”

“Oh.” Liz replied, but inwardly beamed. “Max about what you said before… It meant a lot to me to hear you say it. I’m sorry I can’t give you more than that at the moment…”

“That’s enough for me.” Max smiled, wanting desperately to take her hand again, but didn’t. “C’mon, lets go. Isabel will be sending a search party for us soon.”

As they walked into the room they thought Isabel was sleeping, so they tried to sneak in without waking her, but Isabel’s eyes fluttered open as though she was only momentarily resting them.

“Where were you both?” Isabel asked yawning.

“Just getting some air.” Max replied, standing by the door. Liz had walked over to the other side of Isabel and had taken her place back on the bed. Isabel immediately took Liz’s hand and rested her head on Liz’s shoulder.

“Are you going to sit down Max?” Isabel asked. “You’re making me nervous standing all the way over there. Here … if we bunch up we can make room for you on the bed next to Liz.” She offered.

“No!” Both Max and Liz replied in unison.

“I’m okay over here.” Max replied, taking a seat by the door and picking up one of the magazines that Liz had brought.

Every so often Max would bring his eyes up to watch Liz and Isabel curled up together on the hospital bed, wondering if coming back from Vancouver had been such a good idea. He had asked Peter to rearrange the shooting schedule so they could do Tess’ individual scenes that day, giving him the day off. He had wanted to be there for Isabel, and the fact that Liz was there too, he had felt like his Christmas’ had come at once.

But now it was awkward, and he felt Liz retracting. He shouldn’t have told Liz the truth about how he was feeling, he should have kept his distance as he had promised. But being close to Liz again had been far too tempting …

Meanwhile Liz was sneaking glances at Max. More than anything she wanted to be scooped up in his arms and held forever, but she knew that she wasn’t ready. If she caved in now, she may never deal with the issues she had. She wasn’t ready for a relationship, and she sure wasn’t going to jeopardise a relationship with Max by rushing into it.

‘What if he doesn’t wait for you?’ A voice in her head asked.

‘Then he isn’t worth having.’ Another replied.

Liz hoped she wouldn’t have to find out. Damn those insecurities.

Fourth time lucky ... is anyone else having trouble posting?

I have been obsessing over this all weekend and for some reason I am hesitant to read the feedback. I hope you all like it.

The song is 'Lying is the most fun a woman can have with her clothes off' by 'Panic! At the Disco'. (Sorry for the swearing - they're not my lyrics!)


30

“What’s put you in such a good mood?” Max asked Tess, who was whistling as she placed a couple of pieces of fruit into her bowl at the hotel’s breakfast buffet.

Max didn’t often venture down to the restaurant for breakfast, usually only having time to grab something quick on his way to the set, or when he had the morning off, ordering room service so he could take his time. Today something possessed him to try the breakfast buffet. Unfortunately for him Tess seemed to have had the same idea.

“Oh, nothing.” Tess smiled. “Just looking forward to the scene we are shooting today.”

Max had to think about what was scheduled. After seeing Liz earlier in the week, he hadn’t really spent any time turning his mind to learning his lines for the coming week. Instead he had been obsessing for hours over their goodbye after they had left the hostpital. Liz had seemed distant, and despite everything, Max couldn’t help but feel as though Liz was tying to pull even further away from him. His old insecurities were beginning to rear their ugly head again, not matter how hard he tried to rationalise them away.

“Oh, that’s right…” Max said flicking through the script he had brought to read over breakfast. “We’re supposed to kiss. Thanks for the reminder.”

Max immediately began piling up his plate with grilled onion, scrambled eggs, a coffee and anything else that would give his breath that nice fresh taste. He then grinned at Tess devilishly before finding somewhere to sit. Unfortunately Tess followed him.

“I hope you’re going to take a breath mint after you eat all of that rubbish.” Tess said, planting herself opposite Max at the table.

“Nope.” Max replied, shovelling the food into his mouth.

“How can you eat all of that … fat?” Tess said screwing up her nose.

“Well you see, it’s like this…” Max said, dramatically putting a piece of sausage on his fork and lifting it to his open mouth, munching on it without closing his mouth as he chewed, and not waiting until he had finished his mouthful before he spoke again - “It’s that easy.”

“You’re a pig, you know that?” Tess replied haughtily.

“At least I’m not eating like a bird. Is that what you call breakfast? You’ve only got two pieces of fruit in your bowl.”

“Some of us care about how we look.” Tess replied.

“I prefer women with a hearty appetite.” Max smiled, and then he couldn’t help but add - “I guess we’re just not destined to be.”

“Would you stop saying that?” Tess pleaded.

“Why? Am I starting to get through to you?” Max asked.

“No, because it’s not true.” Tess dismissed him. “Look, I’ve been giving you space, just like you asked. Now I want you to do something for me.”

“You call that giving me space? I have to see your face every day. You practically jumped me yesterday in your hotel room. You have no right to demand anything from me.” Max retorted.

“I’ll make you a deal. You go out on one date with me, and if by the end of it you really don’t feel anything for me anymore, I’ll leave you alone.” Tess offered, before adding, “For good.”

“You’re not serious…” Max replied sceptically.

“Deadly. Take it or leave it.” Tess replied, confident that he would go for it.

“I’d rather get a restraining order.” Max replied, picking up his script and heading back to his room. He really didn’t want to hear any more about Tess’ wild ideas – although the thought of having her leave him alone forever was tempting …

* * * * *

“So, we’re going to go around the circle and introduce ourselves. Tell the group who you are and why you are here.” The leader announced.

Liz groaned. This was the part that she had been dreading. Serena had finally managed to get Liz to the group therapy session that she had promised to go to. Now they were seated in a circle with eight other women, about to share their stories.

“Hi. My name’s Gillian and when I was growing up my father used to…”

“Hi my name’s Sarah and a year ago someone spiked my drink …”

“Hi my name’s Cynthia and my ex-boyfriend …”

The stories that people told were heartbreakingly similar, if not worse than what Liz had experienced.

“Hi my name’s Liz, and four years ago I was raped.” Liz began, at which point Serena grabbed her hand for support. “He was my best friend’s brother. I guess you could say he was a friend of mine too. Now … now I have problems being intimate with men. And it’s hard because I’ve met this really wonderful guy …”

Liz began to sob at that point unable to continue due to her restricting throat.

“Thank you for sharing with us Liz.” The leader interrupted, not wanting Liz to feel she had to continue. Liz felt embarrassed, until she saw all the sympathetic glances from those in the room that knew exactly how she felt.

By the end of the session Liz had begun to feel a lot better. There were all of these women sharing similar experiences, consoling with each other, telling others how they coped, and some sharing how they made it through to the other side. Liz somehow felt that she would be okay if she could emulate any one of these strong women.

* * * * *

“Why are you here?” Max asked. He was sitting in the dark with a bottle of whiskey. The blinds were drawn and he looked like he hadn’t brushed his hair in days.

“I wanted to talk to you…” Tess hesitated to step into the room.

“Are you sure it’s safe to be alone with me? After what I did …”

“I know it wasn’t you. It wasn’t the real you.” Tess replied, taking a hesitant step closer. “I remember the man you used to be. The man I loved. You can become him again.”

“I can’t…” Max replied desperately. “It’s too late. I can’t take back what I’ve done.”

“If I forgive you … then you only have to forgive yourself.” Tess said, reaching out to touch him.

“It’s not that easy.” Max replied.

“It can be.” Tess argued, kneeling down in front of him.

“What do you want from me?” Max asked desperately.

“I want you to tell me that you love me.” Tess replied.

“I don’t … I won’t.” Max replied, turning away, trying to get out of her reach.

“You once told me that you would never lie to me…”

“And you once told me that I was the only one for you – next thing I know you’re sleeping with my best friend!” Max replied exasperatedly.

“I didn’t.” Tess denied. “It wasn’t me. That night - you walked in on Tom and my sister.”

“Sister?” Max said suddenly. “You don’t have a sister.”

“I didn’t … I mean, I did, I just didn’t know it at the time. I found out that I was adopted out because my parents couldn’t afford to raise the both of us. We’re twins.”

Max suddenly jumped to his feet and began pacing, looking as though he had a million thoughts running through his head.

“Oh God …” Max cried. “This whole year has been wasted because of a misunderstanding?”

“But it’s over now. We can go back to how we were. Just tell me you love me.” Tess begged.

“I … I love you.” Max confessed. “I never stopped.”

Tess immediately ran into his arms and the camera zoomed in on their passionate kiss.

“Cut!” Peter called. “Let’s try it again.”

“What was wrong with it this time?” Max asked exasperatedly.

“Same as the other thirteen times – you look like the last thing in the world you want to do at that moment is kiss her. She’s your soul mate, your first love. I need more fireworks!”

“Okay, okay. I’ll get it right this time.” Max promised.

‘You can do this Max. You’ve never had any problems shooting these types of scenes before.’ He tried to give himself a pep talk.

‘That’s because you didn’t know Liz before.’ He reasoned. ‘Just pretend its Liz. Pretend it’s Liz and it can all be over. You won’t have to kiss Tess ever again.’

This time when Tess came running for him, he looked at her as though he was desperate to close the remaining inches between them. As they kissed, he devoured her. Running his hands over her, he pulled her closer to him so there was no room left between them. When the director finally called ‘cut’, they were both left panting.

“Perfect.” Peter said, slapping them both on the back.

Max just looked at Tess, as they both tried to catch their breath.

“Tonight. Eight o’clock in the foyer.” Max said, before walking in the direction of his dressing room.

* * * * *

Max had no idea what possessed him to agree to a date with Tess. It was a spur of the moment decision, which he could only pin down to two reasons: either (a) on the off-chance that Tess would keep her promise to finally leave him alone, or (b) because in that final on-set kiss, he must have felt something for Tess that he needed to bury once and for all if he was going to move on with Liz.

He had been devastated when a friend had told him that Tess had been sleeping around behind his back. He hadn’t been much of a saint himself, but as soon as he realised that he and Tess were getting serious, he had quit his other pursuits. For a year they were exclusive, and Max was beginning to wonder whether he was falling in love with her. Sure, it hadn’t been love at first sight, and there hadn’t been any lightening bolts or fireworks, but the sex had been amazing. He had even been contemplating marriage when the news came of Tess’ infidelity.

It wasn’t until he met Liz that he had realised that what he had with Tess was lust, not love, and any marriage would have ended in the same way as every other marriage between Hollywood stars – in the divorce courts. Tess had saved them from that, for that at least he should be grateful.

Max put on his shirt and did up the buttons, thinking about how that night would put an end to it all and he could move on. As he was reaching for his wallet, his phone began to ring. It was Liz. Max went pale – what was he thinking?

“Hello.” He said as he picked up his phone.

“Hey Max. Just checking in. How was your day?” Liz asked.

Max smiled at the sound of Liz’s voice. She sounded happier than she had when they said goodbye in LA. She obviously felt more comfortable talking to him with the distance between them.

“It was okay.” Max replied. “How was yours?”

Liz began explaining about how her group therapy session, and the fact that she had spent the rest of the day with Isabel, giving him a blow-by-blow account of how Isabel was doing.

“That’s great Liz. And thanks for being there for Iz. I know how much it means to her … and to me.” Max thanked her, feeling guiltier by the minute about his date with Tess.

“So what are you going to do with the rest of your night?” Liz asked.

“Nothing much. Just thought I’d go down to the bar for a couple of drinks with some of the crew.” Max even surprised himself at how easily the lie came out.

“Well, I’ve got the night off tonight, so I’m hitting the club with Serena.”

“That’s great Liz.” Max replied.

“Yeah, club sodas for me all night, so the band better not suck.” Liz joked.

“Who are you seeing?” Max asked, as he sat on the bed to put on his shoes.

“’Panic! At the Disco’. It should be entertaining at the least.” Liz said. “Speaking of which, I should go. I had told Serena that I was almost ready to leave.”

“Have a good night Liz.” Max said sincerely.

“You too.” Liz smiled. “Talk to you tomorrow.”

“Bye Liz.” Max replied, before reluctantly hanging up the phone.

As he sat on the edge of his bed, all dressed ready to go, he stared at the clock as it ticked past 8 o’clock, but couldn’t force himself get up to go. It had been so nice to hear Liz back to her normal self that he had second thoughts about the date with Tess.

He had so many thoughts running through his head that he couldn’t think straight. How could he even contemplate going out with Tess when he had told Liz that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her? But Liz had asked him to sort out his feelings for Tess hadn’t she? But then why did he feel like he was betraying her? By doing this one thing, he was going to be free of Tess forever, and he and Liz would be able to move on. He was doing it for them.

That was enough to make him grab is keys and head out the door.

“You’re late.” Tess greeted him when he stepped out of the lift and into the foyer.

“Sorry, had to make myself beautiful.” Max replied.

“That wouldn’t have taken you any time at all. I remember how good you looked even with your pillow hair and morning breath.” Tess smiled.

“Okay. Before we go anywhere I want to get one thing straight. I don’t want you talking to me as though we have any sort of intimacy. If you want me to stop cringing every time you open your mouth, you’ll stop trying to convince me to take you back. We are going out for a couple of drinks, and conversation. That’s it.” Max set the ground rules.

“Alright. But on the condition that you will be civilised and not snap at me whenever I speak.” Tess retorted.

“Deal. Now lets get this over with – I mean, let’s go.” Max corrected himself. Placing his hand on the small of her back, he led Tess out of the hotel and into a waiting taxi.

* * * * *

“Hey Liz, Serena, what took you guys so long?” Alex asked. “We’ve had to fight off the crowd to save your usual seats for you. The place is packed tonight.”

“Sorry, Liz’s fault. How long does it take to find a pair of shoes anyway?” Serena replied, knowing from the smile that had been on Liz’s face when she had returned with her shoes, that she must have called Max in the meantime.

“Can I get you some drinks? The usual?” Alex offered, looking for something to do to distract him from the fact that Isabel wasn’t with him. He understood why she was hesitant to let him in, but he wanted to be with her, in sickness or in health.

“Yes please.” Serena smiled.

“Club soda.” Liz corrected him, causing Alex to do a double-take. It wasn’t like Liz to order something non-alcoholic.

“Coming right up.” Alex replied, before battling the crowds to find the bar.

“Where’s Michael?” Liz asked Maria.

“Catching up with some old workmates. He should be here soon.” Maria replied, scanning the crowd.

“Are you okay?” Liz asked, sensing that Maria wasn’t her usual self.

“I’m okay, it’s just, well Michael and I have been fighting a lot lately.” Maria admitted.

“What about?” Liz prompted.

“I don’t know. He’s been saying that I’m trying to change him. That I don’t respect him. Plus he’s been complaining that I’m jealous of his friendship with Robyn.”

“Are you?” Liz asked, knowing what the answer was going to be. She could see it when they first me Robyn.

“Maybe … but can you blame me? The woman is 6 foot tall, and has a perfect physique.”

“And what are you? A stunned mullet? You’re gorgeous Maria.” Liz complimented her. “Besides … Michael chose you. Doesn’t that count for something?”

“That’s what Michael keeps saying.” Maria replied.

“Well. Maybe you should listen to him.” Liz smiled.

She found it odd that she and Max were desperate to be together, but couldn’t be at the moment – and here was Maria inventing reasons not to be with Michael, when there was nothing wrong. If Liz could pass on anything to Maria from her experience, it would be that life is not always going to be perfect, so when it is, you have to grab onto it with both hands. But then, by saying that, Liz would have to take some of that advice herself.

* * * * *

“So there we were, in the middle of the Mediterranean, without a motor or any oars for the lifeboat…” Tess was telling Max a story about her most recent venture out to sea on George’s boat. Max couldn’t help but laugh at the mental imagery she was conjuring.

“So what did you do?” Max asked.

“Well all we had on board was a couple of bottles of champagne and whiskey, so we all sat around and got drunk. Eventually the sea rescue came and found us, but not before George and Matt had stripped down to the boxers in the attempt to get help.”

“How far did they get?”

“They didn’t get more than five feet from the boat before they realised that they were too drunk to swim. Ben had to go in and save them.”

“Remind me never to accept another trip on George’s boat for a very long time.” Max smiled, remembering the days when he would have joined them in their drunken swim. Things had definitely changed since then.

“So what’s next on your agenda after this movie?” Max asked, changing the topic of conversation.

“I was thinking about having some time off.” Tess admitted.

“Really? Any particular reason?” Max asked.

“I don’t know … I guess I’ve just come to realise that this industry is turning me into someone I really don’t like.” Tess confessed. “I need some time to get perspective. And … well I guess I’d like to meet someone and start a family before I get too old.”

“I didn’t realise you were so maternal Tess.” Max replied, trying to ignore the fact that Tess had obviously been intending for him to father her children, given her recent and continued persistence to get back together with him.

“I guess you just get to that stage of life eventually. Haven’t you ever thought about having kids?” Tess asked.

“I guess … eventually.” Max replied, not able to hide a smile at the thought of Liz with a pregnant belly.

“I think you’d make a good dad.” Tess acknowledged.

“Thanks.” Max blushed, wondering if she noticed that he omitted to say the same about her.

“We should probably get going soon.” Max announced after a moment’s awkward silence. “We’ve got an early start tomorrow.”

“How about one dance before we go?” Tess suggested. “For old times sake.”

Max remembered the way they used to dance when they were together – not something that was suitable for the establishment they were currently in.

“Please?” Tess begged. “And then I won’t ask anything more of you. You’ll be free of me.”

Max hesitated for a moment. “One dance?” He confirmed.

Tess nodded with a smile.

* * * * *

The band cranked up with their opening song, trying to set the mood for the rest of the set. Liz was standing on the balcony while Michael and Alex were sitting around talking. Both Serena and Maria had gone to the bar ages ago, and were yet to return with their drinks. Liz had declined to join them, not wanting to be tempted. So far so good.

Well is it still me that makes you sweat?
Am I who you think about in bed?
When the lights are dim and your hands are shaking as you’re sliding off your dress?

As Liz listened to the lyrics, suddenly all she could think of was Sean’s body on top of hers, his hands roaming her body. Was it the fact that that night was still on her mind from the group therapy session that morning, or was she just overdue for one of her panic attacks? She would have almost found it funny that the name of the band on stage was ‘Panic! At the Disco’, if it hadn’t been for the overwhelming fear that was coursing through her veins at that moment.

* * * * *

Well then think of what you did
And how I hope to God he was worth it
When the lights are dim and your heart is racing as you’re fingers touch your skin

Max just smiled to himself as he listened to the song that was spilling out of the speakers around the club as he and Tess found a place in the middle of the dance floor. It could have been written about him and Tess. It was almost comforting to know that someone else had been put through exactly the same thing as Tess had put him through.

“What are you smiling about?” Tess asked innocently.

“They’re playing our song.” Max couldn’t help but reply.

* * * * *

I’ve got more wit, a better kiss, a hotter touch, a better fuck
Than any boy you’ll ever meet
Sweetie you had me
Girl I was it
Look past the sweat
A better love deserving of exchanging body heat in the passenger seat?
No no no you know it will always just be … me

Liz was frozen to the spot. She couldn’t move. All she could see was Sean’s face on every person in the room. She even jumped when Michael placed a hand on her shoulder, having stepped over to make sure she was alright when he noticed the panicked look on her face.

Was this what she was constantly going to have to live with? Moments in her life when unexplainably, that night would rear its ugly head again? And had Sean ruined her forever? Would he end up being the only one that would ever touch her?

* * * * *

Let’s get these teen hearts beating faster faster!

So testosterone boys and harlequin girls
Will you dance to this beat – and hold a lover close?
So testosterone boys and harlequin girls
Will you dance to this beat – and hold a lover close?

Tess’s smile dropped immediately as she realised the truce that she and Max had established over the past couple of hours was suddenly over. They were back at war. Well if that was the case, she would use all the weapons she had. She moved in for the kill, pressing her body closer to Max’s, grinding her body against his.

So I guess we’re back to us, oh cameraman, swing the focus!
In case I lost my train of thought where was it that we last left off?
Let’s pick up pick up

Max wasn’t about to be outdone. He grabbed Tess by the hand and spun her around until she was dizzy. He dipped her, ran his hand down her spine, teasing her by touching her and then immediately pulling away so she would beg for more.

* * * * *

Oh now I do recall, we were just getting to the part
Where the shock sets in
And the stomach acid finds a new way to make you get sick
I hope you didn’t expect to get all of the attention
It’s like it’s selfish
Did you really think I’d let you kill this chorus?

Let’s get these teen hearts beating faster faster!

It made her feel physically ill at the memory of that night. The memory of his stale alcoholic breath, the sweat of his body as he got more excited. The feeling of the remnants of him inside her. Damn she could use a drink.

* * * * *

So testosterone boys and harlequin girls
Will you dance to this beat – and hold a lover close?
So testosterone boys and harlequin girls
Will you dance to this beat – and hold a lover close?

Dance to this beat
Dance to this beat
Dance to this beat

Let’s get these teen hearts beating faster faster!
Let’s get these teen hearts beating faster

Tess didn’t want to let Max have control over her, but she had waited a very long time for his hands to be touching her again, in a way that showed how much he was aching to feel every inch of her skin. When Max pulled his hands away, she was desperate to have them reaching for her again. It had been far too long between dances.

I’ve got more wit, a better kiss, a hotter touch, a better fuck
Than any boy you’ll ever meet
Sweetie you had me
Girl I was it
Look past the sweat
A better love deserving of exchanging body heat in the passenger seat?
No no no you know it will always just be … me

As they danced, Max had an overwhelming feeling that anything that he and Tess used to have was now definitely over, and he was relieved at the thought. Even this dance couldn’t generate any feelings within him, other than a desire to show her that he was in control of his destiny, and she would no longer have any power over him. He didn’t love her. He couldn’t feel for Tess even a miniscule of what he felt for Liz. When Tess had cheated on him, she had changed the course of their lives, and set him free.

Let’s get these teen hearts beating faster faster!

* * * * *

So testosterone boys and harlequin girls
Will you dance to this beat – and hold a lover close?
So testosterone boys and harlequin girls
Will you dance to this beat – and hold a lover close?

“It’s okay Liz.” Michael said, putting his arm over her shoulder. Liz immediately turned to him and buried her face against his shirt. It was unbelievable that Michael, a guy she barely knew, someone who didn’t know a lot about her past, would be the one to reach out to her when she was losing it. Stop her from doing something she would have regretted. She sobbed, and he soothingly stroked her back.

“I’m here to protect you.” He whispered.

* * * * *

So testosterone boys and harlequin girls
Dance to this beat
So testosterone boys and harlequin girls
Dance to this beat
And hold a lover close

Let’s get these teen hearts beating faster

As the song ended, Max pulled away. Tess looked up at him with a look that suggested that he was her next meal, followed closely by an expression of ‘I told you so’.

“Goodbye Tess.” Max announced, leaving her panting and confused in the middle of the dance floor, not giving her a second glance as he left the building. If he was lucky, he could catch the last flight to LA that night.

Thanks for the feedback - it wasn't quite as scathing as I had expected Just a little calm before the storm ...

I had planned to post this part early, but I've been busy on the hunt for Matthew McConaghy - he's in this town somewhere, but being very elusive.

So anyway ... on with the show.


31

“Is something wrong?” Liz asked Maria. Michael was driving them home from the club, and Maria had been very quiet since they had left.

“No.” Maria replied curtly, continuing to stare out the window.

Liz caught Michael’s eye in the rear vision mirror and shrugged. She didn’t know what was going on, and it looked like Michael didn’t have a clue either.

“Are you sure there’s nothing wrong?” Liz asked, as they walked up the stairs to Maria and Alex’s apartment.

“I’m sure.” Maria replied, before quickening her step to catch up with Alex.

“Do you know what’s gotten into her?” Liz asked Michael as they lagged behind.

“I don’t know. I’ve given up trying to work out Maria’s moods. I usually just wait for it to pass. It generally does … eventually. She seems to have been getting worse lately though.” Michael added.

“Would you two love birds hurry up?” Maria said pointedly to Liz and Michael before pushing her way inside the front door.

Liz and Michael just looked at each other in shock.

“Well I guess that answers that question.” Liz said, before racing up the stairs to talk to Maria, with Michael following closely behind.

“Maria!” Liz called through Maria’s bedroom door, having seen Maria make a beeline for her sanctuary and slamming the door behind her.

“Go away.” Liz could here Maria’s muffled reply.

Liz tried her luck and turned the handle. Lucky for her, Maria didn’t have a lock on her door.

“Didn’t you just hear me?” Maria demanded. “I don’t want to talk to you.”

Michael used that moment to make his entrance.

“… or you.” Maria stated.

“There’s nothing going on between me and Michael.” Liz explained. “I don’t know where you got that idea from.”

“Really? I saw the two of you embracing in the club. You looked rather cosy together. And to think I had been worried about Robyn. I should have been looking a little closer to home!” Maria retorted.

“Maria … you’re being ridiculous.” Michael replied. “It was nothing.”

“It didn’t look like nothing Michael.” Maria spat. “God Liz… Isn’t having a hot movie-star for a boyfriend enough for you? You need to move on my man too?”

Liz tried to ignore the sting that Maria’s last comment had made, and instead tried to explain before something exploded.

“At the club, I freaked out. I started having a panic attack about your brother. Michael was trying to comfort me. He stopped me reaching for the nearest drink.” Liz explained. What she didn’t mention was the softness in his voice when he told her he would protect her, and they way he was reluctant to stop holding her when the others had returned from the bar.

Maria eyed them suspiciously, trying to decide whether that was a reasonable enough explanation for what she saw.

“It’s true Maria.” Michael concurred, but then he realised that he should probably give her more than that for a reason to believe him. “Look, I need to explain something to you…”

“What?” Maria asked, expecting the worst.

“I once told you that I was an only child… but the truth is … I wasn’t always. I used to have a sister. She was a couple of years younger than me, and we were very close. She was beautiful…” Michael said softly, his eyes tearing up as he pictured her. “My Dad … he used to hurt us. Me he would beat, but my sister … well her hurt her in different ways. One day she decided she’d had enough, and she … she killed herself. She was only twelve years old.”

“Michael…” Maria said, unconsciously covering her mouth with her hand in shock. She had not expected this. Michael had always been the laid back one, the carefree one, the one who didn’t seem to have a care in the world. But all this time he has been carrying this around with him.

“I don’t know anything about what Liz is going through at the moment, but the look Liz had on her face tonight at the club … well I’d seen it before on my sister. I wasn’t strong enough to help my sister when she needed it, but I could be there for Liz.”

“Michael…” Maria repeated, walking over to him and wrapping her arms around him. “I’m so sorry…”

“It’s okay Maria. I should have told you. It’s just … well it’s just hard.”

“Thank you Michael.” Liz spoke for the first time.

Michael smiled at her over Maria’s shoulder. “You’re welcome.”

“I’m sorry for jumping to conclusions Michael. And I’m sorry Liz…” Maria said, reaching out to pull Liz into the hug as well. “And I’m so sorry for the way I’ve been acting lately … I just … well … I should probably tell you both something too, which might help explain why I flipped out so much.”

“What?” Michael and Liz asked at the same time.

“I … I think I’m pregnant.” Maria announced, although not completely overflowing with excitement at the prospect.

Liz looked at Maria at shock and couldn’t help but feel a pang of jealously. She immediately buried it and threw her arms around Maria. “Congratulations.”

“Thanks.” Maria replied, looking at Michael over Liz’s shoulder for some kind of indication as to how he was feeling.

“Are you sure?” Michael asked, having stopped pacing the room.

“I’ve taken three home pregnancy tests, so yeah, I’m pretty sure.” Maria replied, still unable to gauge his reaction. Why did he have to be so unreadable?

Liz released Maria and took a step back, fearing something was about to blow up between Maria and Michael and she wanted to be out of harm’s way. Her instincts were right, although not quite what she had expected. Michael strode towards Maria and picked her up in the air and twirled her around before pulling her into a bear hug. Tears were streaming down his face. It was the first time Maria had ever seen him cry.

“You’re not freaked out?” Maria asked. This is not the reaction she had expected.

“Are you kidding? I’m going to be a dad!” Michael grinned from ear to ear.

Maria couldn’t help but start beaming herself. She had been so worried about Michael’s reaction that she hadn’t let herself get too excited over the news. Now that she could see that he wasn’t hightailing it out of there, she could finally seriously think about having the baby and raising it together.

Michael dropped Maria to the floor, and was immediately on bended knee before her.

“Marry me?” He asked, with hope and love shinning in his eyes.

“Oh Michael… Yes!” Maria squealed, smothering him with kisses. “I love you Michael.”

“I love you too Maria.” Michael replied.

“Well I guess another ‘congratulations’ is in order.” Liz said, not wanting to interrupt, but so overjoyed to see her best friend so happy. Maria immediately jumped up and squeezed Liz so hard that Liz almost couldn’t breathe.

“Thank you Liz. I can’t believe it! I’m going to be a wife and a mother!” Maria squealed again. “Who would have thought?”

“It’s fantastic Maria.” Liz smiled, feeling genuinely happy for her friend.

“It’ll happen for you one day too.” Maria consoled, hearing the hint of sadness in Liz’s voice.

Liz just smiled weakly and pulled away.

“I’d better go and give you guys some privacy.” Liz said, heading to the door, wanting to excuse herself from what was destined to become a heavy duty make-out session. She walked into the kitchen to find Alex’s head in the oven.

“Alex?” She asked hesitantly, not wanting to scare him and causing him to bang his head on the top of the oven - although he did anyway.

“Oww.” Alex said, coming out of the oven and rubbing his head.

“Sorry.” Liz apologised. “But, what are you doing?”

“I’m cleaning the oven.” Alex replied.

“But why are you doing it at 12am?”

“Because I’m too anxious to sleep. Isabel has her tests and gets her results tomorrow.” Alex explained.

“Oh.” Liz replied. Alex and Isabel must both be going nuts. Not to mention Max. She wondered whether he was back from going out for drinks with the crew.

“Why don’t you go and see her?” Liz suggested.

“Because I’m under strict instructions that she doesn’t want me around while she’s sick, and besides, it’s 12am. She’s probably asleep.” Alex argued.

“You’re not.” Liz pointed out.

“I guess … But I wouldn’t want to wake her by ringing the bell if by chance she is asleep.” Alex counter-argued.

“That’s where I come in. I know the security code.” Liz replied.

Alex hesitated for a moment, before taking off his gloves and apron and grabbing his keys. “I’ll drive.”

* * * * *

At Max’s apartment, Liz punched in the security code, and the door unlatched. She and Alex quietly stepped into the entry, trying not to make a sound, but they needn’t have bothered – Isabel was lying on the couch watching TV.

“Liz! Alex!” Isabel exclaimed surprised.

“Hi Isabel. I hope you don’t mind, but Alex was going out of his mind with worry about you. I thought you may be able to help him out with that.” Liz explained.

Isabel smiled, having been thinking about calling Alex all night. She missed him.

“Thanks Liz.” Isabel replied, taking Alex’s hand in hers, and pulling him into an embrace. Liz felt a sudden wave of sadness for the second time that night.

“I think I’ll just get going …” Liz said, beginning to leave. “Alex? Can I borrow your car?”

“Why don’t you stay here?” Isabel asked before Alex had even reached for his keys. “You can sleep in Max’s room, and Alex can drop you at work in the morning.”

“Are you sure? I wouldn’t want to impose…” Liz argued. She was feeling pretty tired though.

“Positive.” Isabel smiled.

“Okay. Goodnight then.” Liz said before heading in the direction of Max’s room. She had a feeling neither Isabel or Alex would get much sleep that night.

Liz took her time getting ready for bed, including dabbing some of Max’s aftershave on her neck. It almost felt as if he was there with her. She searched through his wardrobe until she found an old t-shirt of his that would work well as a nightgown, and slipped it on.

Liz climbed in under the sheets and turned off the bedside lamp and within seconds of her head hitting the pillow, Liz was asleep.

* * * * *

Due to some sweet talking of the lady behind the counter at the check-in desk, Max had managed to make it onto the last flight of the night from Vancouver to LA. It had to practically run to the gate which they were holding open for him, but he made it. In return he agreed to greet some of the economy passengers as penance for making them delay the flight for him. He didn’t mind. Anything if it meant being able to see Liz again sooner.

He hated to think what the director would say when he was discovered missing the next day. They were due to head up to Whistler at dawn to begin a three day shoot in the snow. Max hoped that his absence wouldn’t put the filming too far behind schedule, but that wasn’t his highest priority at the moment. He had an overwhelming need to be with Liz.

The taxi cab pulled up at his house and as he had expected, all the lights in the house were off. He didn’t go and check on Isabel, assuming she would be sound asleep by then, but slipped quietly into his own room. He intended on getting a few hours sleep before going to find Liz and the restaurant.

He was so tired from the flight that he just wanted to go straight to sleep. Without turning on the light he slipped down to his boxers before pulling back the sheets and slipping into bed. As he lay down, he immediately jumped out again when he realised there was a body lying next to him. He flicked on the light to find a bleary-eyed Liz waking up from the commotion.

“Liz?” Max asked – unsure if he was just seeing things.

“Hey Max.” Liz replied, shielding her eyes from the bright light. “Sorry, Isabel said I could sleep here for the night. We didn’t realise you were coming home.”

“I didn’t either.” Max replied, and then when he saw Liz getting up to go, “You don’t have to leave...”

“I … um …” Liz replied nervously. Being alone in Max’s room was so far over the boundaries their relationship had that she didn’t know what to do. But the sight of Max in his boxers, well that was hard to walk away from.

“I’ll sleep on the couch.” Max offered.

“No. It’s okay Max.” Liz decided. “We can share the bed – its okay.”

“Are you sure?”

“I’m sure.” Liz replied, hopping back into bed and pulling the covers over her.

“Nice pyjamas.” Max said, as he lay on the bed beside her, on top of the covers. “I think that’s my favourite t-shirt now. Nice perfume too.”

“Shut up.” Liz smacked Max playfully. How was it that he always managed to bust her with his aftershave?

“So why did you come home? I didn’t think you had a break in your schedule for a while?” Liz asked, propping herself up on her side so she could see Max more clearly.

“I came back to see you.” Max replied.

“Really?” Liz beamed. She had been worried that she had blown it the other day in the hospital, and scared him off for a while. She was glad to be proven wrong. Since the group meeting that morning she had been feeling a lot more positive about things (with the exception of her mini-freakout at the club), and had been wondering whether she and Max could take at least one step closer together again.

“I need to tell you something…” Max began.

“What?” Liz asked nervously. With all the truth-telling that had been going on tonight she didn’t really know what to expect.

“You know how I told you that I was going out with the crew tonight?” Max began.

Liz nodded. This wasn’t a good start.

“It wasn’t quite the truth. The truth is … I went out with Tess.”

“Oh…” Liz replied, the colour draining from her face. He went out with Tess?

“We just went to a club for a couple of drinks and then I left to come here. Nothing happened.” Max explained.

“Why didn’t you just tell me?” Liz asked.

“I don’t know … I guess I felt guilty. It felt like I was doing something wrong.” Max explained.

“Then why did you go?” Liz asked.

“Because she promised that if I did, and I couldn’t rekindle any feelings for her, then she would leave me alone for good.”

“And did you … feel anything?” Liz asked hesitantly.

“Yes …” Max began, and Liz looked away, trying to hide her glassy eyes.

“No Liz… It’s not what you think.” Max explained, reaching for her. “What I felt when I was with Tess, is that she is not you. She could never be you. I love you Liz. No one is ever going to compare.”

Liz smiled, and turned back to look at him. “Really?”

“Really.” Max replied. “So I jumped on a plane just so I could tell you that in person.”

“I’m glad you did Max.” Liz replied.

“So I haven’t broken too many rules by telling you how I feel?” Max asked, wondering if Liz would react the way she had at the hospital when he had told her what he had been thinking.

“You know what?” Liz smiled. “I’m starting to think rules are meant to be broken.”

“Liz Parker a rule breaker? Never.” Max teased.

“I’ll show you…” Liz retorted, grabbing Max behind the neck and pulling his lips towards hers.

“Wow…” Max said, once the kiss had finished. “I like it when you break the rules.”

Liz’s only reply was to steal another kiss.

“So what’s happened to change your way of thinking?” Max asked curiously. “Not that I’m complaining …”

“We’ll just put it down to a temporary moment of insanity.” Liz smiled. Truth was she was still trying to sort through everything that was going through her head at the moment. But right now, the kiss just felt right.

“So I’ve got some news too…” Liz announced, changing the subject. “Maria’s pregnant …”

“Pregnant? Wow. Has she told Michael?” Max asked

“Yeah, but only after accusing Michael of cheating on her with me…”

“You and Michael?” Max asked incredulously.

“Yeah, long story. Anyway, after it had all been set straight, she tells us that she’s pregnant – hence the paranoia.”

“How did Michael react?” Max asked curiously.

“He asked her to marry him.”

“Really? Good for him. That’s great.” Max smiled. Maria a mother? That he couldn’t wait to see. Michael changing a nappy? That would just be priceless.

“So this paranoia of Maria’s…” Max brought up again. “I don’t have anything to worry about?”

“Don’t be ridiculous.” Liz joked. “Just a misunderstanding, that’s all. I had a panic attack at the club tonight, and Michael comforted me. It was nothing.”

“Are you okay?” Max asked, suddenly concerned. He should have been there.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Liz smiled, and gave Max another kiss to prove it.

“So I guess we should try and get some sleep …” Max announced, seeing Liz try and disguise a yawn.

“Probably…” Liz agreed, snuggling into the covers a little more.

“Sweet dreams Liz.” Max said, placing a kiss on her forehead, and then on her lips.

“Sweet dreams Max.” Liz smiled.

Thanks for the feedback and bumps!

I'm a little late posting this week, but I've moved back home again, and am still trying to unpack my suitcases. But now I have ADSL back again! Yay! No more excuses about not being able to post (or read other writers fics!) apart for those pescky little things such as not enough hours in the day, or slight cases of writers block!

I am reluctantly posting this part as it is, in order to move the story along more quickly (and to keep you bumpers happy). Hopefully it is up to scratch.

And now for the disclaimer ... I have obviously used a real life person to aid me with this part (possibly against her will, but I'm the one with the keyboard - so there!). I have used her in name only and in no way does my writing reflect on the person she is or is not in real life. Capiche? Okay, moving on ...


32

Max was standing at the alter, wearing a tuxedo with Michael by his side. Staring down the aisle he watched Liz slowly walk towards him dressed in white, in awe at how beautiful she looked.

Somewhere in the congregation a mobile phone began to ring.

“Excuse me.” The priest said, indicating to Max’s breast pocket. “I think you’re phone is ringing.”

As Max reached for his phone, he woke up to find his mobile phone was vibrating on the bedside table.

“H-hello?” Max said drowsily.

“Max, its Peter. We’re all on the bus waiting for you. Where are you?”

“I’m in LA.” Max announced.

“LA? What the hell are you doing in LA?” Peter asked, and Max cringed. He really should have called …

“Something came up.” Max said vaguely.

“Since when have you ever cared what the tabloids say?” Peter asked. Tabloids?

“Look, I’ll be there in a couple of days.” Max replied. He could only assume his date with Tess had made the news.

“Just sort it out and get back here as fast as you can. We can only do so much without you. We’re already on a fairly tight budget as it is.” Peter said. It wasn’t like Max to be unreliable, so he was willing to cut him a little bit of slack.

“Just take it out of my salary.” Max offered, not really caring about the movie when the alternative was to be with Liz.

“Just hurry back.” Peter said, before the phone cut off.

As Max put the phone down, he saw Liz stir next to him.

“Are you in trouble?” Liz asked.

“No, it’s fine.” Max replied. “Go back to sleep.”

“I have to go to work.” Liz groaned, looking at the time. The alarm was going to go off any minute anyway.

“Okay, well you can have the first shower, I’ve just got to go out and get the paper.” Max said, pulling his jeans on and leaving the room. The tabloids must be pretty bad for Peter to have mentioned it.

As Max walked into the kitchen he saw that Isabel was already up and cooking breakfast.

“Morning Iz.” Max said, greeting his sister with a hug. “What are you making me for breakfast?”

“I’m not making you anything, since I didn’t even know you were home. When did you get in?”

“Late last night.” Max replied, stealing a piece of bacon.

“So I take it you found our house guest…” Isabel grinned.

Max just grinned but didn’t say anything. His smile dropped however when he saw Alex come out of the bathroom with wet hair, and just doing up the button on his jeans. Immediately Max stood to attention. This was not something he was prepared for.

“Iz?” Max began. “Is there something you want to tell me?”

“Not particularly.” Isabel replied. “Alex just stayed the night, that’s all.”

“Morning.” Alex said to Max while suppressing a yawn, and then walked over to Isabel and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

Max’s eyes darted towards his sister, and his big-brother protectiveness kicked in.

“Isabel? Can I talk to you for a minute?” Max asked.

“Sure, what’s up?” Isabel replied flippantly, while dishing out some breakfast for Alex.

“In private?” Max asked.

“Anything you have to say you can say in front of Alex.” Isabel replied. She wasn’t going to make this easy on Max.

Reluctantly, Max didn’t push it, but walked towards her and lowered the volume of his voice.

“What is he doing here?” Max asked.

“He stayed the night.” Isabel replied, not meeting Max’s gaze.

“Are you crazy?” Max asked. “Your not well … do you really think you should be doing something as exerting as having sex?”

“Did you and Liz have sex last night?” Isabel retorted.

“No.” Max replied.

“Well then why would you automatically jump to that conclusion? What about giving me the benefit of the doubt to know for myself what I can and can’t do?” Isabel replied, before storming off to join Alex at the breakfast table. “By the way … someone left something for you on the doorstep. I put it over there.”

Max walked to where Isabel had pointed, feeling completely ridiculous for having a go at Isabel. He didn’t have a problem with Alex. He just wanted to protect his big sister.

Predictably, a copy of the tabloid Peter had been talking about had been dropped on Max’s doorstep, this time, with a note from his publicist telling him to call him. Max flipped open the tabloid to page two, where there was the predictable photo of his dance with Tess. He should have known it was a set up. But then he re-read the caption and saw the photo of Liz, and he was seething.

“The bastards!” Max swore.

“What’s wrong?” Isabel asked, too concerned about the look on her brother’s face to stay mad at him.

“Morning.” Liz announced as she walked into the room. “Something smells good.”

Liz stopped and looked at everyone’s faces and stopped in her tracks. “What?”

“I … I think you should sit down.” Max suggested.

“What – why?” Liz asked paling. This couldn’t be good.

Max handed Liz the tabloid, and watched Liz’s reaction as she read it. The colour drained from her face.

“H-how can they do this?” Liz looked at Max with a pleading look.

Max immediately pulled Liz into a hug, as Isabel and Alex grabbed the tabloid to see what the fuss was about. There was a photo of Liz leaving the rape clinic with Serena, with an accompanying article that suggested that due to the lack of sightings of Max and Liz together lately, that perhaps Max was the one that had raped her. They backed that up by the photo of Max and Tess dancing from the night before, suggesting that he had done what he had with Liz and then immediately gone back to Tess.

“What are you going to do Max?” Isabel asked.

“Nothing.” Max replied. “It’ll blow over.”

“This isn’t just a story about who you are currently rumoured to be dating. It’s your reputation that they are trying to ruin!” Isabel retorted.

“And if we do anything, then it’s only going to draw more attention to the article.” Max countered.

“What do you think Liz?” Isabel asked, noticing that Liz seemed to be mulling something over.

“I think we need to speak out.” Liz replied. “The quickest way to quieten this rumour before it builds any more momentum is to show the world that we are in love.”

Max took Liz’s hand in his, and smiled. He loved hearing her refer to them as being in love, especially when they weren’t necessarily ‘together’.

“Are you sure?” Max asked. “There will be a lot of questions.”

“I’m sure.” Liz replied. “I need to fix this.”

“Okay … I’ll line it up.” Max said, taking his mobile out of his pocket. He dialled a number and waited for it to pick up. “Hi Oprah? Hey, it’s Max… Yeah, sorry about waking you up. How’s Stedman? Great. I was just wondered if you could do us a favour …” Max said, before leaving the room to work out the details.

“I really don’t want to go to work…” Liz said, realising it was getting late.

“Then don’t.” Isabel replied. “You deserve to take the morning off.”

“I couldn’t do that to Amy.” Liz replied, not wanting to put Amy out by calling in at this late stage.

“How many times have you had to cover someone else’s shift at the last minute?” Isabel asked.

“I’ve lost count … Okay… I’ll give her a call.” Liz agreed, and grabbed her mobile. Turned out that Amy had already read the article and had assumed Liz wouldn’t be coming in. She was more than happy to find someone to fill in for her. Liz was so relieved – she really wasn’t in the right mindset to be in the kitchen at the moment.

“So it’s all set.” Max announced, walking back into the room. “They’ll record the show today at noon, and they’ll play it tonight. Apparently we’ll just be bumping an episode of her book club.”

“Okay.” Liz replied, hoping they were doing the right thing.

“Well, I’m sorry but we have to go.” Isabel announced.

“Sorry Isabel, I won’t be able to be there for your tests.” Max apologised, pulling her into a hug.

“It’s okay Max.” Isabel replied genuinely, taking Alex’s hand. “I’ve got a good substitute.”

“Thanks Alex.” Max said, patting Alex on the back. “Sorry about before.”

“It’s okay Max. I know you were just looking out for your sister.” Alex replied. “I promise you she’s in good hands.”

“I know. Thanks man.” Max smiled. He really did like Alex.

“What was that all about?” Liz asked, after Isabel and Alex were gone.

“I was just a little shocked to see Alex here this morning. It took me by surprise.” Max replied.

“That seems to be happening to you a lot lately. You should get a better security system.” Liz joked.

“And not get to come home and find you in my bed? I don’t think so.” Max said, wrapping his hands around Liz’s waist. For once she didn’t flinch.

“Is this okay?” Max asked, just to be sure. He wasn’t sure what Liz was thinking about their relationship at this point.

“Yeah.” Liz replied, surprising even herself. “It is.”

* * * * *

“You all came here today to talk about the latest novel in my bookclub – The Tenth Circle, by Jodi Picoult.” Oprah addressed the audience once the cameras were rolling.

There were nods and clapping from women throughout the audience, and some held up the copy of the novel that they had brought with them.

“But have I got a surprise for you!” Oprah announced. “He’s the highest paid star in Hollywood, voted sexiest man alive for the past 3 years running, and has starred in 3 of the top 5 highest grossing movies of all time. Please make welcome our special guest … Max Evans.” Oprah introduced to the camera.

As Max walked on stage, a trek he had done quite a few times before, the crowd gave a standing ovation and the stage crew had a hard time getting the audience to stop cheering. Max took his seat on the couch opposite Oprah and gave an award winning smile to the audience.

“Welcome back Max. It’s been a little while since you last joined us. It’s great to have you here.” Oprah greeted him once the audience’s clapping had died down.

“Thanks Oprah. It’s great as always to be here. Sorry, I haven’t read the book though.” Max apologised with a smile.

“No problem, how about we just talk about you instead.” Oprah suggested, which caused more cheering to erupt in the audience.

“So what have you been doing with yourself since we last saw you?” Oprah asked, relaxing a little into the couch so Max would feel more at ease. She knew he hated talking about himself.

“Oh you know … making movies … promotional tours … the usual.” Max replied vaguely, but then added. “I’ve been spending more time with friends and family lately which has been great.”

“And from what I understand it, you actually left the set of filming your latest movie ‘Against the Current’, to be with us today. So thank you for taking time out for us.” Oprah thanked him.

“No problem.” Max smiled.

“So tell us about this movie. It’s a sequel to the highly awarded ‘Against the Tide’ also starring Tess Harding …” There was cheering in the audience at the mention of Tess’ name. “Can you tell us what to expect from the sequel?”

“It’s still early stages of production, so I can’t give too much away. But I’ll just say it’s a little darker than ‘Against the Tide’. It’s about two people who are lost and are trying to find their way back to each other.”

“You seem to have enjoyed a string of box office hits with Tess as your co-star… After ‘Against the Current’ can we expect it to continue?” Oprah asked, assuming she was asking a fairly innocent question.

“Not if I can help it.” Max blurted, but then realised he probably shouldn’t have said that on air. After this morning, Universal was already going to be mad at him for taking off like he did - so he tried to back peddle. “I mean, Tess is a great actress, but I would love to work with some new talent. I’m constantly learning my craft and trying to push the boundaries, so it’s great when I get a chance to work with different people who can help me become a better actor.”

“So we’d better get to what everyone is dying to know…” Oprah began, and Max staid himself in preparation for the inevitable questions. “Those photos all over the papers this morning of you and Tess … there hasn’t been a reconciliation?”

Oprah knew full well there hadn’t, having met Liz backstage, but they had to get it all out in the open for the benefit of the audience.

“Definitely not. We were just kicking back after a hard days work. We’re not together romantically anymore, but we’re still friends.” Max sugar-coated their relationship.

“So everyone wants to know… what caused the split of Hollywood’s hottest couple?”

“We just had different priorities.” Max replied, and mused just how different he and Tess were now. “I guess we just drifted apart.”

“And now that you are working together again as an on-screen couple? Has that rekindled any feelings for each other?” Oprah prodded, trying to steer him towards mentioning Liz. It worked.

“No. What Tess and I had is definitely over. I’ve moved on.” Max smiled, knowing that was what Oprah wanted to hear.

“To the mysterious new girlfriend …Do you want to tell us a bit about her?” Oprah prodded some more.

“She’s great. She’s wonderful. I count my blessing everyday that I was lucky enough to meet her. Do you need me to jump on your couch to emphasise my feelings for her?” Max asked, referring to Tom Cruise’s momentary lack of composure on Oprah’s sofa the year before.

“I don’t think that will be necessary.” Oprah smiled.

“So tell us, how did you meet?” Oprah asked – a question she actually didn’t already know the answer to.

“I was seated next to her on a flight from London to LA. We got talking and hit it off.”

“See ladies – you never know who you can meet in the most ordinary places. A real life fairytale…” Oprah said, looking at the audience who she could tell were all wishing that it had been them on the flight that day.

“So how about we take a short break and when we come back, Max Evans and Liz Parker!” Oprah announced, as the audience cheered into the commercial break.

“I’m just going to go and check on Liz …” Max excused himself, while Oprah started discussing something with the floor manager.

Max made his way to the side of the stage where Liz was nervously pacing. He came up behind her and reached for her hand, and she jumped sky-high.

“Are you okay?” He asked concerned.

“Just a bit nervous.” Liz replied, trying not to think about all those people in the audience that would be staring at her.

“It’s not too late to back out you know? I won’t mind.” Max offered.

“No. I’m okay. I want to do this.” Liz replied with a feint smile.

“We’re back on in one minute Mr Evans.” A stage hand interrupted.

“Okay. I’m coming.” Max replied, and then turned to Liz. “I’ll see you shortly?”

Liz nodded and watched him walk back to the stage, signing a few autographs for the audience as he passed.

“Is she okay?” Oprah asked Max when he had rejoined her on stage.

“She’ll be fine.” Max smiled.

The cameras began rolling and the audience cheered.

“Welcome back. We are here today with Max Evans and we’re about to meet the new woman in his life – Liz Parker. What do you think audience? Why don’t we bring Liz out?” Oprah suggested, and a stage-hand gave Liz the cue to go.

Max, Oprah and the audience all stood while an embarrassed Liz hesitantly walked onto the stage. Max immediately grabbed her hand for reassurance and whispered in her ear that she would be fine. Liz just smiled at him, gave a quick wave to the audience, shook Oprah’s hand, and then took a seat next to Max on the couch.

“So Liz …” Oprah began. “Everyone is dying to know exactly what you did to capture the heart of Max Evans.”

“I don’t know…” Liz blushed. “He likes to tell me that he keeps me around for my cooking.”

Max just grinned at Liz. She was already a pro at giving vague half-truth answers. She was going to be fine.

“You’re the head chef at Café Blu at Santa Monica?” Oprah confirmed.

“Yeah. Hi Amy.” Liz gave a little wave to the camera, knowing just how grateful Amy would be for the free plug. That would make up for calling in sick. “It’s a great place. I love working there.”

“And I heard a rumour that Max, you were recently reported as helping out with the breakfast shift one morning. Is that true?” Oprah asked.

“Yeah, I think I was put in charge of burning the toast.” Max grinned.

“He did fine.” Liz interrupted. “He almost had the Eggs Benedict perfected by the end of the breakfast shift.”

“So, Liz, tell me, what did you think when you first realised you were sitting next to none other than Max Evans on the plane?” Oprah asked.

“I actually didn’t recognise him.” Liz replied, easing more into the conversation. There were a few gasps and giggles from the audience.

“How is that even possible?” Oprah asked. “He has one of the most well known faces in the world?”

“He’s a bit scruffier in real life.” Liz teased, playfully jabbing Max, before her hand came to rest on his leg. Everyone in the audience could see how comfortable they were together. “He was wearing a Lakers baseball cap and hadn’t shaven.”

“But when you got talking?” Oprah prompted.

“Max told me he was a writer.” Liz confessed, and now Max blushed. “He’s a good actor. I had no clue who he was the whole way home.”

“So when you finally found out?” Oprah asked.

“It was my friend Serena that pointed him out at the airport. I couldn’t believe it.”

“So what did you do?”

“Went home and immediately watched ‘Against the Tide’ again for the sixty-millionth time.” Liz replied.

Max beamed at her and squeezed her hand.

“So what happened next? Did Max call you up? Did you run into each other again?” Oprah quizzed. This was more interesting than the usual Hollywood hook-ups.

“Max knew where I worked, and brought his sister to the restaurant for dinner. He then asked me to cater a party for him, and the rest is history.” Liz explained, not wanting to give too many details away.

“So Liz, tell us. What is it like going from your ordinary existence to being thrown into the fishbowl with the rest of us?” Oprah asked.

“It’s a lot of getting used to. One night out having fund with my friends can cause very horrible photos of me being splashed all over the cover of the magazines. They make up lies to sell their magazines, and don’t even care who they hurt in the meantime.” Liz replied, no longer smiling. Max squeezed her hand even tighter.

“So that’s happened again today.” Oprah said, and a larger than life version of the article appeared on the screen behind them. “Do you want to talk about their latest attack?”

“I just can’t believe that they would print something like that without even attempting to clarify their facts.” Liz began. “Max is the sweetest person I have ever met, and he would never do anything like that to any woman.”

Max gave Liz a quick kiss on the forehead for her nice comments about him, and the crowd cheered.

“I mean, would we be here today if he had done that to me?” Liz pointed out, hoping that the story would end there.

“But you were at the clinic for victims of rape …” Oprah prompted.

“Yes, that much is true. Four years ago I was raped.” Liz announced, and the audience gasped sympathetically. “And by having it revealed to the world in a trashy gossip magazine is almost as bad as…” Liz drifted off, and the shook her head as if to clear her thoughts. Why did it suddenly seem as though every face in the room looked like Sean’s? She gripped Max’s leg so tight that he looked at her in concern. “I don’t really want to talk about it. I’m only just starting to work through it myself. I just want to say - the women I met at that clinic were beautiful, strong women, who were just trying to get through this horrible thing that happened to them … and they, and I, do not deserve to be stalked in this way – our privacy taken away from us.”

There was a massive cheer from the audience showing their agreement, and it took a little while for Oprah to calm them down. Seeing how upset Liz was getting, Oprah decided it was time for another commercial break. Max whispered encouragement to her, but is wasn’t long before the cameras were rolling again.

“So how about we open some questions up to the audience. Yes, you up the back. Do you have a question you would like to ask Max or Liz?” Oprah said, pointing to the woman jumping around madly in the back row. The boom mic hovered above her as she began to ask her question in her southern drawl.

“Yes, my question is for Max. Do you generally pay much attention to what the tabloids say about you?”

“I try not to. I understand that they have to print their stories in order to sell magazines, and sometimes I find it almost amusing reading about my life through their eyes. I can promise you my life is no where near as exciting as they make it out to be. But when they overstep the line and write things that hurt the people I love, then I can’t just ignore it – no matter how much I may wish I could.” Max explained.

“Another question?” Oprah directed.

“You said that your life is ‘no where near as exciting’ as it is in the tabloids. What is your life like?” Another woman asked.

“Oh, you know, like anyone else’s. When I’m not working, I like to spend time with family and friends. I eat take-out and watch DVDs. I go to clubs to see bands. But there a some days when I have to dress up and go to parties and act the part of a Hollywood star.”

“And get paid a lot to do it.” Oprah smiled.

“I’m not the one who sets the salaries. I’d work for free if it meant I could do something I loved every day.” Max grinned. “But don’t tell that to Universal.”

“What about all of the reports that you used to be a little wild? That you used to binge drink and sleep with a different woman every night?” The next lady blushed as she asked the question. “Is there any truth to those rumours? And if so, are you saying that you have changed?”

Max hesitated for a moment, and Liz held her breathe. “You have to understand that I entered this business when I was very young. I had more money than I knew what to do with, and women who were throwing themselves at me everyday. So, yeah, I may have been a little crazy in my youth, but I’m definitely not the same person now.” Max explained, not denying the rumours, but unable to ignore the fact that Liz had chosen that moment to remove her hand from where it had been resting on his leg.

“I have a question for Liz.” Another lady stood up to ask. “Is Max a good kisser?”

There were a few giggles from the audience.

“Yeah, he is.” Liz blushed, before whispering in Max’s ear. Within a second he was out of his seat and into the audience to give the woman a peck on the cheek. There was more giggling and cheering from the audience. Immediately twenty more hands were in the air, spurred on by the chance of getting a kiss from Max.

More questions were asked and answered, and it wasn’t long before the interview was over. Liz breathed a sigh of relief. She didn’t know how Max managed to keep smiling for so long, and answer so many personal questions without getting frustrated. Liz couldn’t help but be in awe at the way he had the audience hanging onto every word he said. He always seemed to know exactly what to say. She mused that it was almost as though there were two different Max’s in the room – one for the world to see, and one that only she got to see. She already knew which one she preferred.

Thanks for all the wonderful feedback this week!

LairaBehr4 - we'll go back to daily updates when I win the lottery and don't have to spend 8 hours at work every day!

Addicted2AmberEyes - you made my day (I'd offer to help with the errands that you neglected, but you're probably on the other side of the world somewhere - so it looks like I'm off the hook! )

Dreamerlaure - you're officially the first person to use a word in their feedback that I needed a dictionary for!! (carthartic is a very good word to describe what I was trying to do with that scene ...)

Oh, and behrluv32 - if you think you're holding a grudge now, just wait for a couple more posts (you aint seen nothing yet ...).

I think I've said too much, so let's move on ...


33

“Max would you stop pacing already?” Liz pleaded. She was currently sitting cross legged on Max’s kitchen bench, watching him pace back and forth in front of her.

“Sorry… I’m just worried about Isabel. Should it be taking this long? They’ve been gone for ages.” Max replied, standing in front of Liz, having stopped pacing for a moment.

“They have to run the tests and then get them analysed. I don’t think it would be an exceptionally fast process.” Liz tried to appease him.

“You’re right. I know you’re right.” Max replied, before beginning to pace the floor again.

“Would it make you feel better to go to the hospital?” Liz offered. At least then he could see what the hold up was, and save his poor floor from being worn away.

“Yeah. It would. Good idea.” Max said, immediately grabbing his keys.

As they opened the front door, they found Isabel and Alex walking up the path hand in hand. When Isabel saw Max she broke into a run and threw herself at him.

“It’s gone, Max. They said the cancer’s gone!” Isabel said, unable to hide her joy.

“Really?” Max smiled. “That’s fantastic!”

He pulled Isabel into a bigger hug and then spun her around.

“So it’s over?” He asked, wanting to be sure.

“Well … I have to go back every week to get tested for the next month, and if I’m clear, they’ll just test me once a month, and then every three months.” Isabel explained. She wasn’t completely out of the woods, but it did mean that the Chemo could stop and she could start planning her life again.

“I’m so happy Izzy.” Max said, unable to stop hugging her.

“Let the girl get some air already!” Liz interrupted, before immediately taking Max’s place and hugging Isabel. “I’m so happy for you Isabel.”

“Thanks Liz… Oh, how did it go today?” Isabel asked.

“Liz did great.” Max replied, smiling and Liz, who returned his smile.

“Well, I’m starved.” Isabel announced, making her way into the house.

“Isabel with an appetite? You must be cured.” Max joked.

“I think Max and I owe you a dinner.” Liz announced, remembering the poker game bet. “How about you and Alex go and take it easy, and Max and I will cook you a celebratory dinner?”

“Sounds awesome.” Isabel grinned. “We might just have to pass the time watching a bit of TV… I think Oprah starts soon.”

“Knock yourself out. No jokes at our expense though.” Max replied. He was generally embarrassed seeing himself on these types of shows. He always seemed so fake, as though he was playing a character – never giving away too much. Maybe tonight would be different – he could never disguise what he felt for Liz.

Liz watched as Alex led Isabel to the sofa and began fussing over her. She protested at still being treated like an invalid, but you could tell she really loved the fact that Alex was so concerned about her. Liz felt her heart constrict at the way their hands latched as though being less than a metre apart was just too far away from each other.

Liz pulled Max into the kitchen to give Isabel and Alex some privacy, and as soon as the door closed behind them, she lunged at Max – throwing her whole body into passionate kiss. Max was surprised at first, but it didn’t take him long to give back as much passion as Liz gave. They eventually pulled away and Max couldn’t stop grinning.

“Wow … what was that for? Not that I’m complaining.” Max asked curiously.

“I think I’m ready to take that step back towards you.” Liz explained. “I’m ready to have a proper relationship with you.”

“Really?” Max beamed. Since he had arrived the night before, Liz had been acting uncharacteristically more positive about their relationship, but all day he had been waiting for the bomb to drop that would send Liz retreating back into her shell again. He hadn’t dared hope that Liz was honestly wanting to move forward in their relationship, because he didn’t want to feel the acute loss that would come when it didn’t happen.

“Really.” Liz replied with a smile, linking his hand in hers.

“What’s changed?” Max asked. He didn’t want to push, but he really wanted to understand what had changed her mind.

“I guess … well, seeing Maria and Michael yesterday, and how happy they were to be starting a family together … and now with Isabel and Alex … It’s just made me realise that life is short. You have to grab onto every moment of happiness while you can… I don’t want to look back on my life in ten years time and realise that I have wasted my life being scared. I don’t want to be afraid anymore.” Liz explained.

“But are you sure that you are ready to take that step?” Max asked concerned. He was worried that Liz was pushing herself too far too soon. “If you’re not ready …”

Liz shook her head, as if not even wanting to hear the suggestion. “I’m ready.”

Max took a hesitant step towards her and tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear. “I want you to know that I love you Liz. And if you ever feel like you have made the wrong decision, or you need to take things slow, you know you can tell me right?”

“Thank you Max. That means a lot to me that you would say that, but it’s not necessary …” Liz promised.

“I hope not Liz, because I never want to let you go.” Max replied, pulling her into a hug.

“So will you do me a favour Max?” Liz asked hesitantly.

“Anything.” Max replied honestly.

“Will you come here and help make up for lost time?” Liz smiled, indicating to her lips.

Max wasted no time lifting Liz up so she was seated on the kitchen bench, a much better height at which to kiss her. He placed his hand softly on the back of her neck, and moved his lips forward to touch hers. He hesitated for a moment, but when he saw the desire in Liz’s eyes, he kissed her with so pent up emotion that it almost brought a tear to his eye. He had not allowed himself to imagine that he could ever be so happy. They only thing that could possibly top the way he was feeling at that moment was if he asked her to marry him - and if she said yes.

Luckily at that moment he was prevented from thinking any more crazy thoughts by the sound of his phone ringing. He ignored it at first, wanting nothing to interrupt his time with Liz, but it was so persistent that Liz pulled away and reached into Max’s back pocket to retrieve his phone for him.

“Hello?” Max answered reluctantly, attempting to catch his breathe.

Liz knew something was up when Max pulled away from her.

“Daniel, what’s up? …. No. It was a one-time thing. She’s not taking any more interviews… I don’t care how much they are offering – it’s not negotiable. Do you still work for me? Good, then you’ll consider the subject closed.” Max said before hanging up his phone.

“What was that all about?” Liz asked curiously.

“Apparently your television debut has all the journalists talking. They want to line you up for more interviews. Even the ‘rape support hotline’ want to use you as their latest celebrity spokesperson.” Max explained.

“Why me? I’m nobody.” Liz replied.

“Not anymore …” Max replied, leading her out into the lounge where Liz saw an image of herself larger than life on his big screen television.

“Four years ago I was raped.”

Liz’s face went pale. She had wanted to do this for Max – go on television and clear his name. But it hadn’t really sunk in that the whole world would know such intimate details about her life. And the ‘whole world’ included her parents …

Max immediately grabbed Liz’s hand and squeezed it, worried that she was going to panic and run again. But she didn’t, instead she turned towards him and let him comfort her.

“How about we go and get that dinner started?” Max suggested, wanting to get Liz out of the room and away from the television.

“Start dinner? What have you guys been doing in the kitchen for the past half an hour?” Isabel teased.

“Never you mind.” Max grinned, leading Liz away from the TV and through the kitchen doors.

“Are you alright?” Max asked her when they were alone.

“Yeah. I’m fine.” Liz replied. “It just occurred to me that my parents might see me on TV, and I haven’t told them about that night yet …”

“Do you want to call them?” Max asked, offering his phone.

“I’ll call them later.” Liz dismissed his offer. “There’s usually at least a week’s delay in the show getting aired in Australia. I’ll call them when I’ve had time to think about what I’m going to say.”

“Have I told you yet how grateful I am that you did what you did to settle those rumours? It was very brave and I know there will be consequences for you. I just wanted you to know that it wasn’t all for nothing.” Max thanked her.

“It was my pleasure.” Liz smiled, cheering up a little, having been reminded that it was all worth it. She would do anything for Max.

“So should we start cooking this dinner?” Max suggested in an effort to curb the temptation of resuming their make out session where they had left off.

“Sure. What ingredients do you have?” Liz asked, opening Max’s pantry.

“Uh … that might be a problem …” Max said embarrassed.

“Hmmm … haven’t left me a lot to work with here.” Liz replied, pulling out cans of vegetables that were 12 months passed their used by dates.

“We could order out?” Max suggested.

“And turn down a challenge? Never.” Liz smiled, pulling out some ingredients which she could work with.

“What can I do to help?” Max asked, watching Liz start to work her magic.

“Stand there and look gorgeous as always.” Liz replied, laughing as Max then proceeded to strike a few poses. “On second thoughts, why don’t you grab an apron and stir this for me?”

“Real men don’t wear aprons.” Max protested, taking the spoon from Liz so he could take over stirring the contents of the saucepan.

“Whatever you say, just don’t come crying to me when you get sauce spattered all over your shirt.”

“Yes mum…” Max teased.

Liz’s response was to flick her tea towel at him so that it snapped on his leg.

“Ooooo… this means war!” Max declared, grabbing the nearest tea towel and chasing her around the kitchen with it, only relenting when she agreed to give him a kiss as a truce.

Liz ran back to the stove in time to save the sauce from burning to the bottom of the saucepan, and proceeded to order Max into the dining room to set a table for Isabel and Alex, complete with candles and silverware.

“Dinner is served.” Max announced to Isabel and Alex who were just switching off the TV after the credits had rolled.

“Smells good.” Isabel commented, having caught a whiff of the aroma coming from the plates Liz was carrying out of the kitchen.

When the food was placed in front of them, Isabel and Alex looked and Liz and Max curiously.

“Macaroni and cheese?” Isabel asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Don’t knock it until you try it.” Max replied.

Isabel and Alex tried a mouthful and their sighs were enough to show that they were eating possibly the best macaroni and cheese they had ever tasted.

“Your welcome.” Liz replied smiling.