Roswell Fanatics

And I'm back!!:D
I come with a brand spanking new part too!!! YAY
lol, ok yes i am a loser.
Thanks to all the readers and feedbackers. A hardy welcome to all the newbies, and thanks to those to suggest my fic. THANX!!

To LTL, I used Jim's name and his appearance, yes, but he is not Jim Valenti persay. DId that make sense? I don't know

But now,
on with the fic...



Part 21

Alex made his way back to Max’s room, still in shock. He couldn’t believe that Michael had just died. The doctors had led him out but not before he saw them cover Michael with a white sheet. Then he just walked out in the hall, in a trance, finding his way back to Max’s room.

When he walked in, Kyle and Liz stood up, while Max inclined his head in his direction.
“He’s dead.” He said, the words catching in his throat as he did.
“Oh no.” Liz gasped and covered her mouth.
“I’m sorry.” Kyle said, and pulled Liz into his embrace.
“He looked ok, he took my hand and his grip was strong. Then, then…” He closed his eyes willing the pain to go away.

“I’m sorry Alex.” Max said in his hoarse voice.

The four of them stood in silence until a knock at the door brought them back.
“Maxwell Evans?” One of the men asked as they stepped into the room. Alex got out of their way when he saw their badges.
“Yes.” Max said from the bed.
“We’d like to ask you some questions.” The other man said. Both men were dressed in simple suits of blue. The one on the right had ashy blonde hair, cut close, a faint hint of stubble on his face, and glasses. The other had dark brown hair, blue eyes, and some freckles that dusted his nose and cheeks.

“I’m Detective Ronan, this is my partner Detective Cohan, we’d like to ask you some questions about what happened today at the apartment of one Henry Johnson.” He said. Max looked over at Alex and sighed.

~*~

Mark Davis was at his desk when he heard a door slam from somewhere else in the office. He stood up and walked over to Henry Johnson’s office and knocked.
“What?” He heard the older man’s agitated voice answer from inside.
“Is there a problem sir?” Mark asked.
“No, leave me alone.” Henry said, sounds of slammed cabinets and overturned objects could be heard.

Mark took a deep breath and opened the door to find himself in the middle of a wreck. Papers were thrown to the floor, a chair laid to the side, and a frantic man standing within the chaos.
“I told you to leave me alone.” Johnson roared at him.
“I’m sorry sir, I was just worried.”
Johnson’s nostrils flared and sweat coated his red face.
“I’m going to be going somewhere.” He said as he went back to his erratic search for files an such.
“Where to?” Mark asked.
“That is none of your concern.”
“Well I thin it is. You seem to be taking some important files with you, you look very nervous, and you’re in a hurry to leave. I think I should know what’s going on.”

Johnson ignored him and continued loading his suitcase.
“If people come looking for me, you don’t know where I am.”
“Well since you won’t tell me, I wouldn’t be lying.” Mark said.
“And you haven’t seen me since yesterday. Wait…” Henry paused and thought about it. “No, I was here all night, yeah, working on a big case. Yeah, that’s it. Anyone comes looking for me, you tell them.” He said.
“Henry wait,” Mark said, stopping him from leaving the office. The older man looked at him with rage filled eyes. “What are you running from? What happened?”

“Don’t worry. It doesn’t concern you or this stupid firm.” Johnson said and pushed past him, out of the office.

~*~

“So how exactly did you acquire the handgun that was fired at Jim Armstrong, aka Cowboy Jim?” Detective Ronan asked Max.
“I took it from my roommate.” He said.
“And you roommate is Kyle Valenti.” He said and Max nodded. “Did you take it or was it given to you?”
“No, I took while they were out, looking for me I guess.” Max said.
“And you took this with the intention of killing Mr. Armstrong?” Asked Detective Cohan.
“No, I don’t know why I took it. And, I didn’t know that Mr. Armstrong was going to be there.”

The two detectives looked at each other and nodded.
“So, you went to Henry Johnson’s apartment in order to kill him.”
“No!” Max said. “No, I wanted to scare him.”
“And then you ended up shooting Mr. Armstrong.” Said Ronan.
“He didn’t” Alex said from the corner of the room. He’d let Max speak too much, taking all of the blame.
“Alex.” Max said, trying to stop him.
“Then who did, Mr…” asked Cohan.
“Whitman, Alex Whitman. I did. I shot Cowboy Jim. He shot Max, then Michael, then I shot him.” He said.

“How did you and Mr…Guerin make you way to the apartment?” Ronan asked him.
“We figured that’s where he’d be.”
“And why would he go to his employers house of residence with a gun?” Cohan asked him.

Alex looked over at Max, who was shaking his head.
“He thought he would be protecting me.” He said.
“Protecting you from what?”
“From him, from Jim.”
“And why would you need protection from the two gentlemen?” Ronan asked.

Again Alex could see Max shaking his head.
“I worked for Cowboy Jim, and Mr. Johnson was one of his clients.” He said, feeling as if the air had been kicked out of him.
“So you had prostituted yourself over to Mr. Johnson, under the instructions of Mr. Armstrong, Mr. Johnson obviously mistreated you…” Ronan said as he looked at Alex’s still bruised face, “…and Mr. Evans here went over for retribution.”
“Yes. But he didn’t do anything. I shot Jim.” Alex said.
“We see.” Ronan said and nodded over at his partner. The other pulled out a set of handcuffs and stepped behind Alex. “Alexander Whitman, you have the right to remain silent, anything you say will and could be used against you in a court of law, you have the right to an attorney , if you cannot afford one, one will be appointed to you…” He continued as Cohan cuffed Alex and started to lead him out of the room.

“No, wait!” Max shouted from the bed, trying to sit up.
“Do you really have to do this?” Kyle asked them. “It was self defense. Mr. Armstrong fired at Max and Michael, Alex was afraid.”
“You can take that up with the Das office, Mr. Valenti. Now please, let us pass.” Detective Ronan said. Kyle sighed, slumping his shoulders and let the three pass.
“I’ll be ok.” Alex said over his shoulder. “I love you.” He said over to Max.
“I love you too!” Max said back, and collapsed back into the pillows.

TBC...

I'm back!!
Thanks for all the replies and feedback. You guys are great.
I'm so glad you like and read my fic. And i'm especially grateful to those who have stuck around and recommended this fic to others

ok well on with this roller coaster



Part 22

They took his mug shot. His very first mg shot and police record. Funny he’d never thought he’d be in there for murder. He pictured the more humiliating rap sheet of prostitution. Of having to go through the “hazing” his cell mates would do after they found out what he was. But now they would only sit back and wonder he could kill someone. The burly officer dragged him by the arm, and pushed him roughly into the small, barred cell.

There were three other men in there. There was a nazi at the far right corner, a younger man who shook nervously anytime anyone moved an fragment of an inch toward him, and a drunkard lying on the bench across from Alex.
Alex kept his eyes on the nervous one. He’d obviously done something small, but being in jail scared him to death. He looked about twenty five, well dressed, sweaty palms tightly clasped between his legs. Maybe he picked up someone like me, Alex thought to himself.

“What you in for little boy?” The nazi looked up at him and sneered. Alex gasped at what the man had chosen to call him. Memories threatened to invade, but he pushed them back. Maybe he was a John he’d forgotten about. No, this guy wasn’t into guys, he thought.
Alex shrugged and didn’t answer.

“I said, what you in for, didn’t you hear me you little faggot?” The man asked again, pushing himself away from the bars he was leaning against. He took three steps toward Alex, causing the nervous one to almost fall off his seat. “I know this piece of shit is in for getting his little worm sucked off, that one well…” he looked down at the drunkard, “ well he’s self explanatory. But you….” he was now in front of Alex, his right leg raised to rest on the bench, “I don’t know what you’re in here for.”

Alex looked up into the man’s cold, dark eyes and shrugged again.
“What are you in here for?” Alex asked him. The man laughed and moved to sit beside him.
“I stabbed a beaner.” He said and laughed. Alex shook his head and looked down at his hands. “So? What you in for?”
“I killed someone.” Alex said, almost in a whisper, but the man heard him. The nervous one moved closer to the bars and avoided looking up all together. The drunkard took in a snoring breath and settled back.

“You kidding right?” The nazi asked. Alex shook his head and looked back up at him with anger in his eyes. “Wow. Who’d you kill?”
“I really rather not talk about it.” Alex said.
“Awe, come on Mr. Tough guy. Tell me.”

“Shut up in there.” The jailer shouted over from his desk.
“Just leave me alone.” Alex said.
“Fine.” The nazi shrugged and went back to his corner.

~*~

“We have to get him out of there.” Max said, struggling to get out of bed.
“Max, stay in bed. You can’t do anything right now. You’ve just had surgery.” Liz said as she tried to get him to lay back down.
“I have to do something.” Max said. “Hand me the phone.” He said to Kyle. Kyle handed him the phone and Max dialed.
“Hello?”
“Mark, it’s Max, look I need a favor.” Max said.
“It wouldn’t involve packing your stuff would it?” Mark asked.
“What?”
“Yeah, Johnson was here earlier packing up his things.”
“Shit!” Max yelled, gritting his teeth and a jolt of pain shot through him. “When did he leave?”
“About half an hour ago, what’s going on?”
“Call the police, tell them he was there and that he’s taken off. Look I can’t really explain much over the phone. Just call them and tell them my name, they’ll know what you mean.” Max said. “Oh, Mark, please try to come down to the hospital, I really need your help.”

“Ok, Max. I have no idea what’s going on, and basically I’m a little nervous. But I’ll call them, and I’ll be there as soon as I can.” Mark said and hung up.
“He can help Alex.” Max told Liz and Kyle. “He’s a good lawyer.”

It took Mark an hour to get to the hospital, and some trouble trying to find Max’s room.
“Ok, now can you tell me what’s up?” Mark asked as he entered the room. “Oh, hi. I’m Mark Davis.” He said when he realized there were two other people in the room.
“Kyle Valenti.” Kyle said and shook his hand.
“I’m Liz.” Liz said, noticing how Mark and Kyle’s hands clasped longer than usual.

“Mark, I’m glad you’re here. I need your help.” Max said as he sat up in bed.
“What happened?” Mark asked as he stepped closer to the bed.
“Shot, twice.”
“Johnson?”
“No, someone else. But he was there and took off. I’m guessing he’s gonna take off from town too. But I need your help with something important. My boyfriend, Alex, was arrested. I was wondering if you could help him out.”
“Boyfriend?” Mark asked.
“Yeah. I’m gay, is that a problem?” Max asked, hoping it wouldn’t be. Mark looked at him then back over at Kyle, who as staring him down, arms crossed.
“No problem. I’m uh….well me too.” He said.
“Oh.”

“So, yeah. What did your boyfriend do?” Mark asked.
“He was arrested for killing the man who shot at me. Also the same man who shot and killed a friend of Alex. It was entirely self-defense.” Max said.

“I see.” Mark said, taking in all the information Max told him. “I have a feeling you’re leaving something out though. What does Johnson have to do with this?”
Max sighed and told Mark everything, from Alex’s past to the incident that led to Max going to Johnson’s place. “Ok, where is he being held?”

~*~

“Whitman, your lawyer’s here.” An officer said as he opened the door to the cell.
“Lawyer?” Alex said as he got up and followed the officer. They walked down the taupe hallway and into a private room, with the all famous double mirror.
“Alexander Whitman, My name is Mark Davis. I’ll be your lawyer.” The man said.
“I never asked for a lawyer.” Alex said.
“Max did.” Mark said and sat down.
“You know Max?”
“We work at the same firm. Look we have a pretty solid case of self defense going. The only problem will be your past and Max going to the apartment with a gun.” Mark told him.

Alex sat back and nodded occasionally as he listened to Mark’s lawyer talk. He understood about half. Basically Mark was telling him things would work out. But his past came coming up. How could you make a jury sympathize with a male prostitute, and his boyfriend?
“We have to play the pity card Alex. Tell me about your childhood.” Mark said.
“My childhood?” Alex said nervously. “Why do you need to know?”
“Well, we need to bring you up to the jury, make them want to set you free.”
“But what do you know about my childhood?”

“Don’t worry, Max didn’t tell me a word. He refused to tell me anything private about your life. But you have to tell me everything about your life.”

Alex sighed ad began to tell Mark every seedy detail of his dysfunctional life. He told him how everything in his life was perfect up till he turned six years old and his father had developed a very wrong sense of bonding. He told him how when he tried to tell his mother she freaked out calling him a freak of nature, and kicking him out. He told Mark everything up until a couple of hours ago.

“Ok.” Mark nodded as he finished his notes. “Un fortunately I couldn’t get you out on bail, I’m sorry. You’ll have to stay here till they set a date for the trial. Just sit back and lay low.” Mark told him.
“Thank you.” Alex said as they both stood up. The jailer opened the door for them and they walked back down the hallway. “Please tell Max that I’m ok and that I love him.” Alex said.
“I will.” Mark said and shook his hand.

tbc...

LOL you guys are too much!!!
I remember when I was afraid to read slash, but thanks to some friends of mine and some great authors, I'm now a proud slashy lover lol.
It's so great to see all of you reading my fic. U have no idea what an honor it is.

OK, ok...on with the fic!!!




*this is usually where my great banner would be, but for some reason it hasn't been showing up


Part 23

They had moved Alex to his own private cell, thanks to some strings being pulled. Max would make a great lawyer, Alex thought to himself. He still couldn’t talk to him though. No, they still didn’t grant phone calls to murder’s lovers.

Alex sighed and turned over to his side, on the dingy cot. Mark was there almost everyday talking about the case and new developments. It seemed they still hadn’t caught Mr. Johnson, but they knew more or less where he probably was heading.

Alex still couldn’t believe how much things could go wrong in so little time. About this time, he had pictured himself imagining what kind of surprise Max would plan for his birthday, which was in five days. Max would have probably planned some sort of get together. Liz would have been there, and Kyle, maybe even Michael would have been there too. Alex shut his eyes and tried to will the pain back. Michael wouldn’t be there anymore. No, Michael was finally free out there.

He would be nineteen in five days. He never pictured spending any birthday behind bars. After meeting Max, Alex lost the fear of ending up behind those very bars. But there he was, laying on a small cot, facing a concrete wall, cold steel bars right beside it.

~*~

“I’m going to see him today.” Max said as he struggled out of bed. “The doctors said I could leave now.”
“Max, I was here remember. The doctor said you could leave, but he recommended that you stayed a few more days.” Kyle said.
“Well no Kyle. I’m leaving and I’m going to go see him. So you can be my friend and help me get dressed, or you can just leave.”

Kyle sighed and helped him remove the hospital gown.
“Man, you look horrible.” Kyle said as he saw Max’s body. Max had lost weight, and he was still visibly pale from the blood he’d lost.
“Thanks, man. You sure know how to make a guy feel better.” Max grumbled and he stepped into the pants Kyle held for him.

“Oh Max.” Liz said as she walked into the room. She covered her mouth with her hand and shut her eyes at the image of the emaciated man before her. The pants he put on hung low on his hips, exposing his prominent hip bones. His stomach, held only a shadow of the abs he’d worked so hard to obtain, and the bandages that covered Max’s chest made him look even weaker.
“It’s ok Liz.” Max said, touched by the emotion of his long time friend. “Come here.” He opened his arms to her and held in a gasp of pain as she ran to him and crashed into his arms.
“Oh god, I’m sorry, did I hurt you?” She said as she pulled back. She wiped her cheeks and eyes.

“It’s ok.” He smiled at her and kissed her cheek. “Now hurry up and get me dressed. I need to see my man.”

~

“Visitor.” The guard said as he opened the cell doors. Alex stood up expecting to see Mark, but was taken aback when Max came in, supported by Kyle.
“Max, oh god.” Alex said as Max rushed to him and their lips crashed together. Alex held him up, gripping his waist tightly. “Oh, baby, how are you?”
“I’m better now.” Max said against his lips. Max smiled and kissed once more before pulling back.
Alex looked into Max’s slimmer face and frowned. Max looked totally weakened.
“I did this.” He said sadly as he touched Max’s face.
“No.” Max shook his head.

Alex nodded and placed another kiss on Max’s lips.
“I miss you.” He whispered.
“I miss you too.” Max sighed. “I wanted to have you out of here by your birthday.”
“Me too. But hey, the trial is in two days. We’ll see how much longer I’ll be in here then.” Alex said.
“You’ll get out Alex. I know it.” Max said.

~*~

Mark sat with Max at the apartment. Kyle made them all some coffee, and Liz was asleep on Kyle’s bed.
“Still no news on Johnson?” Max asked.
“Nothing. But this could help us. His leaving just adds more to our case. Don’t worry.” Mark said.
“What we need is more help.” Max sighed.

Kyle came into the living room and handed them the mugs of hot coffee. Mark took a drink and smiled.
“Good coffee.” Mark said.
“Thanks.” Kyle said. His eyes lingered on Mark before he cleared his throat. “I hate to bring this up but, you know, Max, your dad is an excellent lawyer…”
“Kyle, you know he won’t do a thing to help Alex. It was a miracle enough that he showed up at the hospital.”
“Maybe we can do something you know. He can’t be completely heartless.”

“Maybe I can talk to him.” Mark said.
“How do you expect to convince him Mark?”
“Well, Alex did help save your life. We can use that. He was protecting you.” He said. “Leave it to me, I’ll think of something.”

~*~

Phillip Evan heard the knock at the door and put his news paper down and went to answer it. He looked through the peep hole and saw a nicely dressed young man.
“Yes? May I help you?” He asked as he opened the door.
“Yes Mr. Evan’s. My name is Mark Davis, and I’m a lawyer at the firm of Smith and Johnson.” Mark said.
“Yes, I’m familiar with that firm. Now what can I do for you?”

“Well sir, I’m currently the lawyer of Alexander Whitman. A young man charged with Second Degree murder. I was wondering if you could possibly assist me.” Mark said, wondering if he would recognize the name. He didn’t. Phillip eyed him and cocked his head.
“Why would you come to me? A member of another firm?” He asked.
“Well sir, your reputation is grand in this area. And well currently my firm is not exactly what you would call stable.” Mark replied. “I would really appreciate you help, sir.”

Phillip inspected the younger attorney, trying to figure him out. He was flattered, to say the least, that this young man would come to him for help. And yes he’d handled many such trials. Phillip let out a breath, and smiled.
“Come on in Mark Davis. Let’s have a look at that case.” He smiled and let Mark in.

TBC...

It's that time of the week again.
Thanks once again for all the feedback. You guys are a riot. I come on everyday just to see what else you guys have written lol.
Welcome once more to all the new readers joining us. I hope you are enjoying urselves.

OK, on with the show.....



Part 24

Mark had worked day and night with Phillip Evans. He discovered he really respected the man’s work ethic. Phillip had found a lot to use for the case, and now Mark was fairly certain that they had a pretty solid case, but he still stayed careful not to let Philip find out Alexander Whitman’s connection to his son.

“So tomorrow morning we should be able to get in their and get this boy released.” Phillip said.

~*~

“Eat!” Liz yelled and dropped her fork down onto her plate.
“I’m not hungry.” Max said, pushing the food around on the plate.
“Yes you are. Eat something, it’s like you’re vanishing before my eyes.” She said.

Max groaned and stabbed a piece of chicken and put it in his mouth. He painfully chewed it and swallowed. “Thank you. Now finish the rest.” Liz said.
“Jeez, you sound like my mother.” Max complained.
“Well you’re acting like a baby.”
“Alex is in jail damn it!” Max yelled.
“And what good are you doing to him by not eating? You think he’s going to be happy when he gets out to see you all wasted away?”

Max sighed and kept eating.
“About time.” Kyle said as he entered his home. He tossed his gym back on the couch and went to sit at the table with Max and Liz. “I was getting worried.” Kyle said.
“I know. I’m sorry.” Max said in between bites.
“Ok, now that you’re here, I have to go. I got to work.” Liz said. She went over to Max, placed a kiss on his cheek and did the same to Kyle. “Later.” She said as she left.

“I’m glad you’re eating, man.” Kyle said. “I hate seeing you like this.” he sighed.
“Me too. I don’t think I’ve ever been this thin.” Max said, looking down at his now baggy clothes.
“Once this is all over, you’re coming with me to the gym.” Kyle said and smiled.
“Once this is all over.” Max nodded and sighed.

~*~

Alex paced his small cell.
His trial was tomorrow, and the waiting was killing him. He knew Mark kept telling him things were going to be fine, but he couldn’t stop worrying. And when he’d seen Max, his heart just broke. He looked so thin and tired. His shirt had looked too big on him, but he knew it once fit him perfectly. And he’d seen the bandage peeking over the collar of the shirt, a reminder of what had happened, of how close he came to losing him.

He had asked the jailer if Max would be able to see him today, but he was told that there would be no more personal visits before the trial. She sighed and sat back down on the small cot. His palms were sweaty, and his legs wouldn’t stop shaking.
“Lights out.” He heard the guard yell and all the lights were shut off.

He laid back down on the small bed and closed his eyes. But sleep would not come just yet. All he could see was the replaying of the events that brought him there. He could see the bullet hitting Max’s chest again. See the circle of blood that quickly formed behind his shirt. He could see again, the expression of shock and pain on Max’s face as he fell back, reaching up toward the wound. Then he saw the same happen to Michael. He saw his body jolt back twice before falling to the ground. Once again, he felt the cold steel of the gun as he fired at Cowboy Jim. He saw the man’s face convulse and the blood spurt out of his lips as he fell.

His eyes twitched behind their closed lids, trying in vain to push those images.

~*~

Mark helped pick out a suit for Alex to wear to the hearing. They were led into the courthouse, Alex walking nervously between Mark and a guard.
“He’s going to see me and remember.” Alex said to Mark. “He’s not going to want to help.”
“Oh he’ll help. It’s a little too late to back out now. And if he does refuse to do anything, we’ll still be ok. Just relax.” Mark said.

Alex took a deep breath and walked over to the defendant’s table. He looked behind him and saw Max, Kyle and Liz all there, waving and smiling. He smiled back and blew a kiss at Max.
“Mark.” Alex glanced over to see Philip Evans walking toward them. “Max?” Philip stopped and stood staring at his son. “What are you doing here?”
“I had to come.” Max said.
“Max.” Philip sighed, taking in his son’s appearance. “Oh son.” Then he looked over at the table where Mark sat and saw Alex. “You?”

Alex stood up and nodded. “You’re the defendant?” Philip asked.
Alex nodded again and looked over at Max. “You knew about this?” Philip asked Mark.
“Yes sir.” Mark said.
“And you felt you didn’t have to tell me?”
“Yes. It really didn’t matter Alex’s relationship to your son.” Mark replied.
“It did if you felt you needed to hide it from me. There’s a conflict of interest here.” Philip said.

“All rise.” The bailiff came out and announced the judge. Philip quickly made his way over to their table.
The judge, a woman of about fifty years of age came out into the courtroom. Her long black robe, just reaching her ankles. Her hair, a regal salt and pepper, was combed back into a neat bun. Her black rimmed glasses hung from straps around her neck.
“Sit down.” She said as she sat at her chair. Her nameplate read Judge Kathleen Henderson.

Everyone sat down, and she looked at the papers on her desk. “The people versus Alexander Whitman, how does the defendant plea?” She asked.
Mark stood up, bringing Alex up with him. Mark leaned over and told Alex what to say.
“Not guilty, your honor.” He said and sat back down.

“Is says here you are being charged for the murder of one Jim Armstrong.” She said and looked over at Alex.

Alex swallowed deeply, feeling his hands begin to sweat. He’d murdered Cowboy Jim.
“Your honor, we’d like to prove that my client, Alexander Whitman was acting in self defense.”

Mark continued making his case, looking over at Philip every once in a while to see the conflict in the older attorney’s eyes.

“Ok gentlemen. We shall continue this hearing tomorrow at eleven.” The judge said.
“We’re ok.” Mark said reassuringly to Alex. Tomorrow, they’d start bringing out the evidence.

tbc...

LOL thanks for all the jailbreak offers, I'm sure Alex and Max really appreciate it, but damn them and their sense of the law!!
SO here we are again but in court.....



Part 25

The next day, they were all back in court. Alex had to stop himself from running into Max’s arms. Once again Max, Kyle and Liz were there, sitting in the second row behind the defendant’s table. Philip came in after Mark and Alex, trailing behind to catch a glimpse of his son. He looked better today, he thought to himself.

Today would be the Prosecution’s turn to talk. Alex felt his palms sweat and his stomach tie in knots. Mark had warned him that the Prosecution would try all they could to make him look like the worst kind of human being.

The judge came into the room and called the trail to begin.
“Is the Prosecution ready?” She asked.
“Yes, your honor.” Said the female Prosecutor. Alex had heard Mark and Philip talk about her. Her name was Monique Strieber. A woman of about forty-two years of age with cropped blonde hair. “Your honor, members of the jury. You have heard from the defense team of how the defendant, Alexander Whitman was a victim of circumstances. They’ve pleaded self defense. But, with the evidence we shall bring forth today, you will hear both sides of this tragedy.”

She reached over the table and took a file from her partner, he was just there for looks mostly, Alex had heard Mark and Philip joke. She walked over to the judge and handed her the file. “Mr. Whitman reported to the police why he was forced to shoot and kill Mr. Armstrong the day in question. But what of the events that lead to that? The Prosecution is here to prove that Mr. Armstrong was murdered, and not just stopped. The defendant intentionally set the wheels turning that led to the victims death.”

“Objection you honor.” Mark stood up and said, “The Prosecution is just trying to over dramatize what did not take place.”
“Sustained. Stick to the facts.” The judge told Ms. Strieber.

Monica Strieber nodded and walked back over to the table, taking up a note pad.
“Very well.”

The rest of the day went by with Ms. Strieber trying to make point after point and Philip or Mark occasionally stopping her. The judge agreed with them most of the time, but would give the female attorney her way at times as well.

“This hearing will continue tomorrow, same time, same place.” The judge announced and called it a day.

Alex stood up and was headed over to the guards when Max ran to him.
“Oh, Alex.” Max sobbed against Alex’s neck as he clung to him. Alex held back his own tears and held Max. “I wish there was some way I could make all of this go away.”
“Me too.” Alex sighed and placed a chaste kiss on Max’s lips. “It’ll be ok.”

“It will.” They turned when Philip spoke. Alex stepped back from Max, but Max continued to hold his hand. “I’ll do my best to get Alex out of here, son.” Was all he said before marching out of the courtroom.
“You see.” Alex tried to smile. “If we could get him on our side, what’s a couple of jurors?”

~*~

His nerves were always on edge. He hadn’t slept for days and it was showing. He hadn’t shaved so his face was covered in a beard and his hair was going in all directions. He watched the news day and night and heard about the trial. He kept looking out the small window afraid he’d see dozens of cop cars waiting for him.

He stayed inside the cheep motel room mostly, only going out to eat at the small café near the motel. He was always afraid he’d run into someone that knew him, recognized him, and knew he was on the run. He’d seen photos of him on the news, asking whether anyone had any information about him.

So, there he was.
Holed up in a cheap motel, watching a small, old television set, eating stale potato chips.

~*~

Max curled up on the couch, nursing a hot bowl of chicken broth Liz had made for him. Yeah, he’d been eating better now, but he still felt weak. He picked some link off of his boxers and spooned another helping of broth into his mouth.
“How is it?” Liz asked as she sat down beside him.
“It’s good. Thanks.” He smiled and leaned over to place a kiss on her cheek. “How was work today?”

“Oh you know. Same thing.” She sighed. “I’m thinking about heading back to school.”
“Yeah, that’s good.” Max smiled and spooned more broth. “What are you going to study?”
“I’m not sure yet. I’m going to start off slow, see where it takes me.”

A knock at the door made them turn.
“I got it!” Kyle yelled from his room and ran out. He banged his foot against the door and cursed as he opened it.
“Gee thanks.” Mark said as he came inside.
“No, sorry, just banged my foot.” Kyle said as he limped over to the recliner.
“You ok?” Mark asked as he followed Kyle over. Max and Liz exchanged glances.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Kyle said. “Thanks.”
“So, when is this all going to be over?” Max asked.
“Well we’re going to need you to testify tomorrow Max. The prosecution is going to want to grill you too. So I thought we could just be prepared.”
“She’s such a bitch.” Liz grumbled.
“Well she’s paid to be one.” Mark said. “I’ve had to be a bitch at times too.” He laughed and Kyle chuckled too. “So I need you to tell me what happened again, word for word.”

Max set his bowl down and began to tell Mark everything that had happened that day again.
“Ok, Got it.” Mark said as he finished taking notes. “You’re going to have to stick to the facts. Don’t say anything about emotions unless you’re asked. The Prosecution has a way of twisting words around.”

“Ok.” Max said.

~*~

Next day Max was called to the stand.
“Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth so help you God?” The bailiff said.
“I do.” Max said and sat down.

“Now, Mr. Evans what is your relationship to Mr. Whitman.” The Prosecutor asked.
“Me and Alex are a couple.” Max answered.
“Is it true that you went over to the Mr. Johnson’s apartment to kill him?”
“Objection.” Philip said.
“Sustained.” The judge said and looked warningly at the Prosecutor.

“Very well, why did you go over to Mr. Johnson’s apartment?” She asked.
“Well, I was angry, yes, but I meant only to go over there and scare Johnson so he could go to the police.” Max said.
“And you felt you needed a gun to do that?”
“No. I was….just upset.”
“Upset enough to kill?”
“Objection!” Philip said again and the judge once more warned Ms. Strieber.

“Ok, let me just say what the police file reads. You, Mr. Evans, showed up at Mr. Johnson’s apartment with a gun.”
Max nodded. “And, once there you found Mr. Armstrong, your lover’s pimp.”
“Objection!” Mark said.
“Ok, ok. You found Mr. Armstrong there correct?”
“Yes.” Max said.
“And you were in a awful state were you not? You had just learned that these two men were responsible for Mr. Whitman’s mistreatment.” She said.
“Yes.”
“You were so angry that you aimed the gun at Mr. Armstrong.”
“Yes.”
“And then you fired at him.”
“No!” Max said.
“Objection your honor, Ms. Strieber is just trying to fuel Mr. Evans.” Mark said

“Watch yourself.” The judge told the Prosecutor.
“Mr. Evans, yes. Is your father not Philip Evans, Mr. Whitman’s attorney?”
“Yes.” Max said and looked over at his father.
“Isn’t there a conflict there with your father, a man who never approved of your lifestyle, to be defending you lover?”
“Objection, that has no relevance to the case.” Philip said, glaring at her.
“I apologize.” She said. “So Mr. Evans what happened when the defendant, Alexander Whitman, entered Mr. Johnson’s home?”
“When I turned to see him, Mr. Armstrong shot me, at which point, Michael, Mr. Guerin, rushed at him only to be shot twice and later died.” Max struggled to say.
“Yes, and then Mr. Whitman fired at Mr. Armstrong did he not?”
“Yes, but only because Jim was about to shoot him.” Max said.

“Is that true Mr. Evans? Or did he just fire to kill out of rage?”
“Objection.” Mark said.
“No, he was protecting me and himself. Jim was going to kill us.” Max protested.
“That’s enough Mr. Evans. You may step down now.” The judge said.
“But your honor…” Ms. Strieber started.
“But nothing, your badgering the witness and causing unnecessary distress.” The judge said and Max left the stand.

Max passed by the defendant’s table and looked at Alex. Alex smiled back and mouthed “I love you” to him.
Mark reached down to his cell phone reading a text message he’d just received. With a smile on his face he stood up.
“Your honor, the defense would like an hour recess.” He said.
“And why does the defense require this?” She asked.
“We’ve just received word that a witness has been found.”
“Very well. We will recess until your witness makes it.” She said.

Mark sat back down and whispered to Philip, then turning around so Alex and the rest could hear said, “They found Johnson.”

tbc.....

p.s.
Alex and Max, and the rest of the crew would like to wish eveyone a happy Cinco de Mayo!!!

Hey guys I bring good news and bad news.
But first I shall apologize for being late. I was sick and then I got cuaght up in other things one of which being that I register for Fall classes later today.
Ok first the bad news then....this is the last chapter to this fabulous fic of mine. Yes I know it's a sad sad day.
But don't worry, here's the good news. I've written a epilogue which i will post later. See, there's always a silver lighting
well here we go....hope you like




Part 26

Max, Kyle and Liz rushed to the defendant’s table trying to hear what was going on.
“Yes, they found him in a motel room.” Mark said. “They’re going to process him then bring him over.”

Everyone in the courtroom was murmuring about what was going on, and the Prosecutors were in a mess trying to figure how they would fix this new development into their favor.
“Now with this Johnson here we can clear things out.” Philip said.
“Unless he lies.” Max sighed.
“He won’t. He’s already incriminated himself by running. If he lies now, he’ll just dig himself a bigger hole.” Mark said.

Finally after an hour and twenty minutes, the police showed up, bringing a very worn out Johnson with them. His hair looked as if the cops tried to fix it for him but failed. His stubble covered face looked haggard and his eyes were bloodshot from apparently not sleeping very much. They took him up to the stand, swore him in, and he sat down.

“Ready?” The judge asked Mark, who nodded. Mark stood up and approached the stand.
“Can you please state your name.”
“Henry Johnson.” Johnson said, his voice sounding defeated.
“And can you please state your profession.” Mark said.
“I’m a lawyer.” Johnson replied.

“And what were your dealings with Mr. Armstrong?” Mark asked. Johnson tensed and looked at the jury. “Would you please answer the question.”
“Uh, me and Mr. Armstrong had a business arrangement of sorts.”
“What kind, Mr. Johnson?”
“He provided gentlemen for me.” Johnson said with a sigh.
“And by that you mean that he sent male prostitutes to your home.” Mark said. Johnson nodded.

“Could you please tell us what happened on the day of June 13.”
“Uh, I was in my apartment.”
“And Mr. Armstrong was there.” Mark added.
“Yes, he was.”
“What were you and Mr. Armstrong talking about?”
“The fact that I had ‘damaged’ two of his boys.”
“And those men being Michael Guerin and Alexander Whitman.” Mark said. Johnson nodded and swallowed.
“When Mr. Evans entered the apartment what happened?”
“He came in pointing a gun at me, then he pointed it at Jim when he realized he was there too.”

Alex looked back at Max and nodded. Max smiled back.
“Then what happened?” Mark asked.
“Well Max and Jim kept talking back and forth until Alex showed up.”
“Then? Who was it that took the first shot?”
“Jim.” Johnson said.

There was a murmur that spread in the courtroom but it was quickly silenced.
“So it was Mr. Armstrong who fired first? How many shots did he fire?” Mark asked.
“In total, three I think.”
“And was it during of after that, that Mr. Whitman fired at him?”
“After his boyfriend was shot.” Johnson said.
“So Mr. Whitman only fired after Mr. Guerin and Mr. Evans were shot?”
“Yes.”

“Why did you run Mr. Armstrong?”
“I felt I was in danger. I thought I would be shot next.”
“Then why not just go to the police?”
“I didn’t want to get into any trouble. I figured I’d run and be over with it.”

Mark nodded and walked back to his table. It was the Prosecutor’s turn.
“Hello Mr. Johnson. So you say you left because you felt in danger.” Said Ms. Strieber.
“Yes.”
“So you feared that Mr. Whitman would shoot you next?”
“Yes.”
“Why?”
“Well Jim had shot his boyfriend, and I’d basically been there too.”
“So you were afraid that Mr. Whitman would shoot you because of what had happened.” She asked.
“I was afraid that if I stayed there, I’d be next.”


She nodded and crossed her arms.
“How many times did Mr. Whitman shoot Mr. Armstrong?”
“Two I think.”
“Well wouldn’t one shot do the trick? I mean, he’s just trying to defend himself right?”
“Objection, she’s just trying to fish around your honor.” Philip said.
The judge agreed and Ms. Strieber wrapped up her line of questioning.

~*~

The jury was asked to leave and reach a verdict then. Alex held his hands in his lap, silently praying that the jury would see his case for what it really was. He looked up at Mark, who smiled back warmly, grasping one of Alex’s hands in his own.
“It’ll be ok.” He whispered. Alex nodded and looked over at Philip.
“It’ll be ok.” Philip agreed and tried his best to smile. Alex nodded and looked back at Max. He saw that he, Kyle and Liz were all holding hands and looking back at him.
“It’ll be ok.” He told them.

After about an hour the jury came back into the court. The Foreman handed the verdict to the bailiff who passed it to the judge. The judge looked at the paper and to the jury.
“Has the jury reached a verdict?” She asked.
“We have your honor.”
“What do you say?”

The foreman of the jury stood up and faced the court.
“We the jury, in the case of Whitman vs. State, find the defendant Alexander Whitman…”

~*~

Alex sat there and wiped the tears from his eyes. They continued to flood down his face in torrents and his breath hiccupped. He just couldn’t believe it.

“Alex?” Alex sniffed back the tears and looked up at the other man. “Oh Alex.”

Max ran into Alex’s arms and the two clutched with all their might.
“We did it.” Alex turned and saw Mark and Philip smiling at him. “Didn’t I tell you it would all be ok?”
“Thank you.” Alex said and embraced Mark. “Thank you so much.”
“It was my pleasure.” Mark said.

They all turned to watch Philip standing by, looking awkward.
“Mr. Evans, I’d like to thank you for all you’ve done for me.” Alex said, he reached out his hand to Philip.
“Don’t mention it.” Philip said and shook his hand.
“Thank you dad.” Max said, tears in his eyes. “Thank you so much.” Then Max wrapped his arms around his father.

At first Philip just stood there, unable to move. Then slowly his arms came up and hugged his son as hard as he could.
“I’m so sorry Max.” He said.
“It’s ok dad. It’ll all be ok.”

~*~

Kyle and Liz and the rest left Max and Alex alone in the small home. Together the two made it to their bedroom.

“It feels so surreal to have you here.” Max whispered, his hands caressing Alex’s face.
“You don’t know how much I’ve missed this, you.” Alex said before placing a kiss on Max’s lips.

Alex’s hands tentatively loosened Max’s tie, pulling it up over his head. Next his unbuttoned Max’s shirt, pushing it back off if Max’s shoulders and letting it drop to the floor. Max was still pretty thin, but at least he looked healthier now. There was a angry scar still on Max’s chest and Alex bent to kiss it.
“It doesn’t matter anymore, we’re together.” Max said.

Alex nodded and reached for Max’s belt. Now Max’s hands were also busy in getting Alex out of his clothes. There was no hurry now. They had all the time in the world.

Once they were both finally completely undressed they stood holding hands looking at one another.
“Still so beautiful.” Alex sighed and pulled Max into his embrace. Alex kissed his eyes, his cheeks, his lips, his chin, worshiping Max’s face. “I love you so much.”
“I love you so much too.” Max said and crashed his lips down on Alex’s. Now Max couldn’t wait another minute. He’d been away from Alex too long for him to keep his patience.

Alex was now laying on the bed, legs spread to accommodate Max’s lithe body. “Let me take you. The last time went too fast and was too blurred. I want to remember all of this.” Max said against Alex’s neck, nipping and kissing. All Alex could do was nod and hold on as tightly as he could. Max pulled back from Alex’s arms only enough to reach into the bed stand and retrieve the small tube of lube required.

Max squeezed out a generous amount coating himself and Alex’s awaiting entrance. Alex spread his legs as far as he could and brought them up to his chest as Max slowly pushed his way in. Both moaned in appreciation.

Max pushed all the way in, letting his sac rest against Alex’s ass, then pulled out as much as he could without pulling all the way out. Then aguishly slowly he pushes back in.
“Oh please babe, don’t tease.” Alex groaned, trying to push up.
“Ok, ok.” Max says and increases his pace. Alex is kissing Max’s arms, his chest, his lips, moaning as Max’s cock slides within him.

“Baby, I…I can’t…” Max says, his arms already shaking from the effort. Alex can feel Max’s muscles struggling.
“Ok, I have an idea.” Alex pulls Max down so he’s laying completely on him then rolls them around so Alex is now on top. He drops his legs down so they’re on either side of Max’s waist, then he leans back and starts to move on Max.

Max reaches out and grasps Alex’s thighs as Alex moves up and down on him. Alex’s hands rest behind him, helping support him. Alex’s tosses his head back letting his mouth open to the moans that spill forth. Max’s hand is now on Alex’s cock, stroking it to match Alex’s rhythm. “Love you.” Alex moaned as he moved faster.
“Love you.” Max moaned back, stroking Alex faster. He could feel his own climax coming quick.

Soon Alex was emptying himself in Max’s hand, crying out in the pure pleasure of it.
“Don’t stop.” Max pleaded feeling his own release just a few thrusts away.
“I won’t.” Alex groaned as he moved even faster. Max gripped Alex’s thighs tighter and finally cries out Alex’s name as he empties himself within his lover. “Oh god, that was amazing.” Alex said as he climbed off of Max and settling next to him.
“Mmm, I feel so much better now.” Max sighed.
“Me too.” Alex said and kissed Max’s shoulder.

The two laid there in silence, just listening to each other breath. Max turned on his side facing Alex and wrapped his arm around him.
“I’m so glad you’re here with me.”
“Me too.” Alex smiled. “there’s no where else I’d want to be.”
“Would you marry me?” Max asked.
“What?” Alex sat up so quickly his head spun.
“Yes, marry me Alex Whitman. Make me even happier than I am now.” Max sat up and took his hands.
“Do you really mean this?” Alex asked with tears in his eyes.
“Of course.”

“Yes! Yes, yes, and yes. I will. I will.” Alex said kissed Max. “Oh we’ve got to tell everyone.” Alex said and jumped out of bed.
“Hey, not so fast. We can tell them later. I don’t want to share you right now.” Max said.
“Ok, we’ll tell them later. I love you Max Evans.” Alex said and climbed back into bed.

The End.

but don't worry Epilogue coming next time!

ok I don't know why I waited until now to post this. It really isn't that long anyway

Well now it has come. The final end to this story. I know i've had a trip writing this. Getting involved with these characters has been a blast.
And so has being a part of all the feedback and all you guys. You guys are the best as I've always said.
Thanks for all the laughs and encouragement



Epilogue

“Ok, I know I had some tofu in here, now where is it?” Kyle asked from the kitchen.
“I have no idea love.” Mark answered from the living where Liz, Max and Alex sat watching TV.

“You threw it away didn’t you?” Max whispered to Mark. Mark winked and laughed.
“I don’t know why you throw it away, I’m only going to buy more.” Kyle said as he came back into the living room. He sat right beside Mark and took his hand. Mark kissed their entwined hands and winked. “So how’s the little bundle of joy?” Kyle asked.
“He’s a handful already. Mom and dad wanted to spend the day with him today so there he s.” Max smiled.

“He’s what, like three now?” Liz asked.
“Yep, and shooting up like a weed.” Alex said.
“He’s already to smartest kid I know. Yesterday he said ‘daddy I want go to school already’ he’s so darn cute.” Max boasted.
“Aren’t all parents supposed to say that about their kids? I don’t think I’ve heard one parent yet say their kid was the ugliest or dumbest.” Kyle joked.

“Oh shut up.” Max threw a pillow at him.
“Hey, hey. You don’t see me going to your place and tossing things around.” Kyle said.
“Relax baby. It’s all our days off. Let’s just sit here.” Mark said and leaned over to kiss him.
“Oh alright. But tomorrow I’m buying more tofu.” Kyle said with a smile.
“Fine.” Mark said.

“I’m just so glad Kyle finally found someone who can stand up to his tofu.” Liz laughed.
“Anyways,” Kyle said, “so how’s this Adam I keep hearing about?”
“Oh he’s….ok.” Liz said, starting to blush.
“Just ok?” Mark asked.
“Ok, ok he’s amazing alright? Happy?” She said and ducked her head.
“They met after she threw a muffin at him.” Max smiled.
“I thought he said something.” Liz mumbled.
“What did she think he said?” Mark asked.

“She thought he said ‘can I see your tits?’” Alex said.
“And what did he really say?”
“Where can I leave your tip.” Liz said and grumbled as they started laughing. “I was having a bad day and he just caught the bad part.”
“So, what happened after that?” Mark asked.
“Well he repeated himself and I apologized like crazy. He laughed about it and said it was ok, then asked me out.” She said. “I said ok, and well, it’s going well.”

Max smiled, happy that his best friend had finally found someone worthy of her. He’d met, or better say, ran into him, literally one day at Liz’s job. Max was heading toward the back to see Liz, when Adam came out and they crashed. He’d noticed the way Adam’s hair was slightly mussed and his lips had a reddish tinge to them. Then Liz made her way out, tucking her hair behind her ears and wiping her mouth. They’d just laughed about it.

Mark and Kyle finally hooked up on the night of Alex’s acquittal. They’d all gone out to celebrate Max’s and Alex’s engagement. Mark excused himself to go to the rest room and Kyle followed.
Before Mark even made it into the stall, Kyle pulled him back and planted a full on kiss on him. Mark, taken back at first, soon kissed back.
“Wow, I didn’t know.” Mark said after they kissed.
“I know, I….just wanted to thank you.” Kyle said.
“That’s it? Just thank you?” Mark had said disappointedly.
“No, not just that.” Kyle said and leaned back into another kiss.

They’d been together now for four years. Mark moved in as Alex and Max moved out into their own place. He moved to another law firm and was now a prominent attorney there.

Max and Alex had their civil union six months after the trial. Friends and family gathered on the beach as the two exchanged vows and wedding bands. Both had worn matching white linen outfits, sea breeze whipping their hair. Everyone cried at the ceremony.

Now they were living in a two bedroom house just a couple blocks away from Kyle and Mark. A year after the ceremony they decided to adopt, and after months of stress and paperwork they took home a baby boy, Michael.

~*~

“Daddy! Daddy!” Little Michael yelled as the two went to pick him up from Max’s parents. The toddler ran to them, laughing and waving a paper at them. “Look, look.” He held it out to them.
“What’s this?” Max asked him as he took it.
“Look.” Michael beamed, hazel eyes glimmering.
“He wanted to draw.” Max’s sister, Isabel, said as she came out of the kitchen.

Max looked at the drawing and showed it to Alex. Little Michael had drawn the three of them.
“It’s beautiful.” Alex sighed and bent down, picking up his son.
“Thank you.” Michael said and kissed both his fathers. “Home?”
“Yeah buddy, we’re going home now. “Bye sis.” Max waved at Isabel, who was six months pregnant. She’d gotten married a year and a half ago to a lawyer in their father’s firm.

When the trio got home, Max carried the sleeping Michael into his room.
“He’s getting so big.” Alex sighed.
“Yeah. He’s a good boy.” Max smiled.
“I love him so much, and you too of course.” Alex teased.
“Thanks.” Max said, pinching Alex’s ass. “I love you too.”

They smiled down at their sleeping son, who was now lightly snoring and went to their room.
“I’m so glad that I’m your husband and we have such a great son.” Alex said as he clung to Max.
“Me too.”

The End