What happens in Vegas (AU, M/L, Adult) (Complete)

[Icequeen]

I love how you all get into the story like you do. It really mean a lot to me. Liz is being a (Insert explicative here) right now but you will just have to stick with me to see how she gets over this. Special shout out to Cherie for cracking me up with her FB. That was GREAT. Sorry no time to thank each one of you but know that I DO appreciate all your comments. Please excuse any errors my head has been killing me for days. I tried to fix most of them.

~~~Chapter 31~~~

~*~Max~*~

I wake up and feel disorientated for a moment. It takes me a minute to remember where I am. I also remember that Liz never called me back but check my cell phone just in case I missed the call. I reach over to the nightstand and don’t have any missed calls. I wonder why she didn’t call me back?

When I get out of bed I realize that I’m in the same clothes I had on yesterday and am in desperate need of a shower. I brush my teeth, at least I picked one up last night, and hail a cab to buy something to wear.

My plane is set to leave at 11AM so I have a few hours to kill. As I ride by the Palms memories of the last time Liz and I were there flood my mind. The first time we were here it was sort of pleasant, the last time not so much. As the cab turns the corner and stops at a red light something catches the corner of my eye. It’s the chapel we were married in. I see a few people entering and wonder if they are happy.

Fools in love, well are there any other kind of lovers?
Fools in love, is there any other kind of pain?

Everything you do, everywhere you go now
Everything you touch, everything you feel
Everything you see, everything you know now
Everything you do, you do it for your baby Love your baby love your baby
Love your baby, love...

I’d like to think that Liz and I were happy if only for a brief moment. I know that I was happy and that I tried to make her happy.

Fools in love, are there any creatures more pathetic?
Fools in love, never knowing when they've lost the game

Everything you do, everywhere you go now
Everything you touch, everything you feel
Everything you see, everything you know now
Everything you do, you do it for your baby Love your baby, love your baby
Love your baby, love...

The cabs moves forward and I’m compelled to turn around and look back at the chapel where it all started.

Fools in love they think they're heroes
'Cause they get to feel no pain
I say fools in love are zeros
I should know, I should know
Because this fool's in love again

Fools in love, gently hold each others hands forever
Fools in love, gently tear each other limb from limb.

What started as a game for me ended up being so much more then I ever expected. I wonder if I’ll ever be that happy again. Could anyone make me happy again? Do I want to let anyone else into my heart?

Everything you do, everywhere you go now
Everything you touch, everything you feel
Everything you do, even your rock 'n' roll now
Nothing mean a thing except you and your baby
Love your baby, love your baby
Love your baby, love...

Fools in love they think they're heroes
'Cause they get to feel no pain
I say fools in love are zeros
I should know, I should know
Because this fool's in love again

“Everything is clear Mr. Evans, should be smooth sailing all the way home.” The pilot comes over the intercom to give me a status. I lean back in my chair and look out the window. As the plane ascends I look at the clouds and remember something Liz said.

“I love looking at the clouds from up here. It looks like cotton.”

At the time I ignored her statement but I’ve always thought the same. I stare at the clouds for a while then get myself something to eat. I tried Liz a few times before boarding and didn’t get an answer on her cell or at the house. I wonder if anything is wrong? Someone would have called me if there was, I hope.

I get home and notice that the nurse isn’t here as soon as I walk in the door. I call for Liz and get no answer. Maybe she’s still not talking to me. I walk to her room and see it empty and the bed made. Suddenly I realize that she’s gone. I sit on her bed and pinch the bridge of my nose. The past 24 hours have been hell and I don’t think the next 24 will be much better.

I try her at home and get no answer. This time I try her cell and leave a message.

“Hi I just got back. I um wanted to make sure everything was alright. Give me a call when you get this.” I hang up and take a much needed shower.

~*~Liz~*~

Max has called me and left a message but I can’t talk to him. I don’t even know what to say to him at this point. I can’t talk to Kris either and it’s driving me crazy. I woke up with a migraine and make myself some tea when I hear a knock on the door.

“Hi.” It’s Kris with coffee in hand.

“Thanks.” I cut the water off for my tea and drink the coffee.

“Bad night?” She asks sitting on the kitchen stool.

“You could say that.”

“Look I just wanted to say I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have come down on you like that. I’m not taking anything back but I just shouldn’t have come down on you so hard.” I know it took a lot for her to apologize.

“It’s ok. You were right it’s just hard to hear the truth I guess.” I sigh and sit next to her.

“No one likes to be told they are making a mistake but it’s better if someone does tell you. I’m still not agreeing to what your doing but your going to do what your going to do I guess.”

“Thanks.” I don’t know what else to say but she’s right, as always and I hate that. I hate knowing that I’m doing something stupid, something monumentally stupid.

“So what now?” She asks breaking me out of my thoughts.

“Who knows.” I get up and search for some aspirin when my migraine doesn’t subside.

“Well I’m here for you whatever you decide.”

“Thanks.” I pop the pills and take a gulp of my coffee.

“He’s been calling me.” I say after a while.

“I figured. Are you going to call him back?”

“I don’t want to but I think I should. I should at least tell him why I left.” We move to the living room and settle on the couch.

“That’s a good idea.”

“Should I call him now?” I ask after sitting in silence for a while.

“If you want to. You want me to leave?” She asks.

“Nah. It will be easier if you’re here anyway. I’ll have you tell you eventually anyway.” I laugh and get up to get the phone. I start to dial the familiar numbers but hang up half way through.

“What happened?” She asks half laughing.

“What the hell am I supposed to say?” I say frustrated.

“The truth?”

“Shit! I don’t know what to say.” I rub my temples. My head feels like it’s going to explode.

“Well think about it then call him later.”

“Yeah, your right.” I say putting the phone down.

“Aren’t I always?” She says and I laugh.

~*~Max~*~

I get out of the shower and hear the phone ring. I rush to get it thinking that it might be Liz only to have it be Michael. We talk about the issues in Vegas and I hang up. I get dressed and sit outside with a beer and contemplate the events of the past few weeks. I try to pinpoint when exactly I got to this point but can’t. I wonder if I will ever fall out of love with Liz? The more I think about it the more I’m convinced that I never will. I sit and gaze at the stars when I realize that she needs time. Maybe if I give her space she will call me or answer when I call her.

I’m in the kitchen making something to eat when the house phone rings.

“Hello.” I answer drying my hands on my jeans.

“Hey, your back?” It’s Liz.

“Yeah I just got here.”

“That’s good. Did everything go ok?” She sounds nervous.

“Yeah nothing major. Everything is fine now.”

“That’s good.” She’s quiet for a while and I can’t take it anymore.

“What happened Liz?” I ask softly.

“I just need time Max. I need to sort everything out.” She sighs into the phone and I slump back into the sofa.

“Are you ok?”

“I’m fine. Everything is fine.” I know what she means and I’m glad.

“Good. Liz I-”

“Max I just need time ok? I don’t want to hurt you but I need to sort everything out before I can continue anything with you.”

“Alright.” I can’t say anything else. She’s made her choice.

“I’ll talk to you later.” She hangs up and I throw the phone across the room. I’ll give her the time she wants, there isn’t anything else I can do at this point.

Two days have passed and I haven’t noticed really. I’ve been busy with work and traveling to Vegas more often now but Liz hasn’t left my thoughts at all. I think about calling her but something comes up or I just chicken out. Maybe she really doesn’t love me anymore. I don’t think I could take rejection to the face so I may be better off not calling her and just letting things be.

“You look like shit.” Michael says after a morning meeting.

“Thanks. As if I didn’t know that already.” I sit behind my desk and look at all the paperwork that needs to get done by the end of the day.

“You’ve been in a shitty ass mood for days. What gives?” I shake my head and try to ignore him.

“Ignoring me isn’t going to make me go away.” He says taking the papers out of my hands.

“What is your damage? I’m pissed! Can’t you see that and respect it? Leave me alone, I’m not bothering anyone. Just leave me alone Michael.” I snatch the papers back and sign off on them.

“Whatever. You want to be miserable then fine, I’ll leave you to it.” He slams the door on his way out of my office and I continue working. Work is the only thing that keeps me sane right now.

“Mr. Evans, your mother is here to see you?”

“What? She’s here?” I ask thinking I didn’t hear her right.

“Yes sir.” This is odd. My mother has never, ever come to my office.

“Ok send her in.” I smooth my shirt not wanting her hear her comments about my appearance and wait for her to come in.

“Mother.” I say when she walks in. She scans my office no doubt looking for something to criticize.

“Maxwell.” She says and takes a seat in front of my desk.

“To what do I owe this grand gesture?” I ask.

“Would it kill you to be nice for once? I came by to see where my sons works. Is that a crime?”

“No, it’s just I’ve had this company for years now and you’ve never come by. I’m just wondering why.” I sit behind my desk.

“No reason in particular.” She says her eyes wandering around my office.

“So is there anything you wanted to talk to me about?” I’m uncomfortable I’ll admit it.

“Actually there is.” She leans in closer and I can tell this is going to be interesting.

“Ok.” I say and wait for whatever she’s going to say.

“Your father and I were talking and we were wondering, I was wondering, why did you really get married without telling us?” God not this again.

“Mother lets not bullshit each other. You and father haven’t given a shit about what I do for years. Why should I tell you anything when you haven’t shown any interesting in anything I do? I really didn’t think you would care that’s why I didn’t say anything.” She looks hurt but I have to be honest.

“Your our son, we care. You father and I may not be the most affectionate parents but we always care about you and what you do. Your father may not show it but he is proud of you Max.” That’s the first time she’s called me Max in over 5 years.

“Well it’s hard to tell. He sure as hell doesn’t show it.”

“I know he doesn’t. Your father has a hard time showing affection but he does care.”

“I’m his son. It shouldn’t be so hard.” I throw at her.

“Yes well none of us are perfect. He tries and while I may not agree with him it’s his way.”

“I know that and I also appreciate him trying.”

“Yes he told me about Liz’s predicament. Your father will fix it.” She says and smiles.

“I know he will.” I say knowing that my father would never lose a case not because it’s for me.

“Well I hope you can stop by again for dinner, after everything is over.” She says adjusting her purse on her shoulder.

“Yeah maybe.” I get up and walk her out. I feel like my life is spinning out of control. I need to take the control back. First step fix this shit with Liz once and for all.

“Mr. Evans your father is on line 4.” That’s a shock. Most of our correspondence has been via e-mail or fax lately.

“Hello.”

“Maxwell I need some information from you?” Way to get to the point. No hello or anything not that I’m surprised.

“Ok, like what?”

“I need to know exactly how long Liz has been living out of your house, before she went to the attorney?” I need to think about it for a moment. It feels like years since everything happened.

“Umm I don’t know exactly but I would say no more then a week.”

“Are you sure? Could it be closer to three?” I open up my planner and scan through it.

“Definitely not three. Why?” I wonder what’s going on.

“Well this is getting more and more interesting. It seems as if the tape was doctored. It has Liz living at her house for over two weeks straight. I’m going to get a full report from the guy I had look at it but I can’t wait to show this to John. I can’t believe that idiot didn’t have it checked out before he jumped to conclusions. I’m going to destroy him for this.” I have to smile at my fathers enthusiasm.

“Keep me posted. I can’t believe that either.”

“I will. Goodbye.” I hang up feeling better. I just want Liz to get her house.

This situation with Liz is getting ridiculous already. We need to talk plain and simple. If she won’t call me then I’m calling her.

I get home and change before I call her. I need the extra time to sort out everything that I want to say.

“Hello.” She answers on the second ring and I don’t think she looked at the caller ID considering she picked up.

“Liz.”

“Max, I asked you to give me time.” She sighs into the phone.

“I know you did but you’ve had time. You should know if you want me or not. It shouldn’t be that hard.”

“It’s not that I don’t want you Max, I do.”

“Then what the hell is the problem?” My voice rises and I silently curse myself for using that tone.

“I don’t have a problem Max. It’s not that simple.”

“Loving someone and being loved should be simple. I don’t understand why you’re making this so hard. What more do you want from me? I’ve shown you over and over how much I love you and it’s not enough for you. I don’t think I’ll ever be enough for you.” I say defeated. She just doesn’t get it.

“You are enough for me. I’m just- I don’t know what I’m thinking but I have to sort it out alone.”

“You know what, that’s bullshit. You don’t have to do anything alone. I’m here, I want to help you through this but all you seem to want to do is push me away and question my feelings for you. You’ve doubted me all along Liz and that hurts. I open myself up to you, throw myself out there only to have you disregard me.” I pace the living room floor wanting to rip my hair out.

“I’m not disregarding you Max. God why do you have to be like this? Why can’t you give me time?” She lets out a sob but it doesn’t affect me. This whole thing is bullshit.

“Take all the time that you want because I for one am done. I can’t do this anymore Liz. I love you with everything that I am but I can’t stand by until you decide that you want me. That’s not how love works and if that’s the way you think it does them I’m sorry but I can’t take part in it. Two people that claim to be in love should be together, period! I thought I would be the one having issues showing love but it’s not me Liz, it’s you and you know what? It hurts like hell.” I didn’t mean to go off like that but it had to be said not matter how much it hurts either of us.

“If that’s how you feel then fine.” I laugh a bitter laugh.

“How typical of you. Why don’t you tell me how you really feel for once instead of being so fucking scared. You’re always closing off. Why Liz?” She’s silent for what seems like forever. I check the phone to make sure it’s still plugged in.

“I don’t know.” She says softly. My heart breaks for her but I can’t keep giving in. She’s wrong, she needs to get over this. I can’t make her do anything or feel anything.

“Well you need to figure it out angel because your pushing me away and it’s killing me. I know you are hurting and I am too. We both lost a baby not just you Liz. You don’t have to go through this alone. I’m here. I want to be here.”

“I know that Max. I’m-”

“We’re just going to go in circles. I’m not going to beg you to love me. You know how I feel so it’s up to you. I can’t do anything else. I‘ve put myself out there yet again. It‘s all or nothing Liz. None of this half ass stuff. If you don‘t want to be with me then I‘ll accept that but no more waiting.”

“What is that an ultimatum? Do I have like a certain amount of time before I lose you?”

“This isn't a game Liz. You should know if you want to be with me or not. It’s as simple as that. It doesn’t take days or weeks to know if you are in love. Either you are or you aren’t.” I say goodbye and hang up with a knot in my stomach. There isn’t anything else I can do. My heart is in her hands.


See ya monday

Song used: Fools in love by Inara George

[Icequeen]

Ok I’m not happy with this part and I know I’ve said it before but I mean it this time. I just can’t get it right and don’t know how to fix it so sorry in advance for it’s suck factor. The next chapter is pretty long so hopefully that makes up for it. Anywho thank you all for you comments!

Poison Ivy
Erina
roswell3053
Mariael311
anonymousarfan
Gater101
g7silvers
Emz80m
lazza
su-lyn
janesdilemma
Ellie
Cherie- You crack me up! Thanks!
Lady_vixen
vampyrax
Michelle in Yonkers- Liz is a bit ‘woe is me’ isn’t she? Hopefully I can change your mind about Liz.
begonia9508
Martine- You made a good point and it will get touched on soon.
Roswell 10/2/00
VeronicB
Gaby7tvm
Behrsgirl1230- WOW 7 ½ hours! Thank you for reading. I’m glad you like it.

~~Chapter 32~~

~*~Liz~*~

Max is right. I need to get my act together. I just don’t know why it’s so hard for me? Why can’t I just let him love me and love him back? Maybe there is something wrong with me. I thought Max was the one that had love issues but it’s turning out to be quite the opposite and I feel like shit about it.

The phone rings and I’m tempted to not answer but I see that it’s Kris so I pick up.

“Get your ass dressed because we are going out. Before you say anything I’m NOT taking no for an answer so don’t bother. I’m prepared to rebuttal any excuses you have so don’t even try. See you in 30.” She didn’t even give me a chance to say anything before she hung up. It’s 7PM and I wonder where the hell she wants to go. It is Friday night so knowing her it’s a club of some kind. I need the distraction so I get dressed.

“That is more like it. You look HOT girl.” She walks in and I’m glad I assumed it was a club by the way she’s dressed.

“Thanks. I’m almost ready.” I finish applying my make up and meet her in the living room.

“Ok we are totally going to have fun tonight.” We laugh and I grab my keys and my going out purse that hold my ID and some cash and lock the door.

“So where are we going anyway?” I ask when we get in her car.

“A club. No let me rephrase THE club in Hollywood. We are going totally VIP so it should be cool.”

“VIP? How did you manage that?” I ask as she turns onto the freeway.

“My dad knows the owner.” She turns up the radio and some crazy techno song comes on putting us both in the mood to party.

~*~Club~*~

“Damn this place is jumping!” We walk in the club and are shown to a V.I.P. booth.

“Told you.” She flags down a waitress and orders some drinks.

“We’re getting wasted tonight no excuses.” I laugh and down a shot of whatever that she ordered. The liquid burns a little and I purse my lips after sucking on a lemon.

“There you go.” Kris says and follows with a shot of her own.

“Come on.” I drag her to the dance floor and it’s packed. We make our way to the middle and start swaying to the music that pumping through the club.

“Man this place is packed with some hot ass.” Kris yells over the music. I shake my head and laugh. There are some hot guys here but that’s not what I’m here for. We dance for a while and soon some guys join us. I need a drink and make my way back to the booth.

I’m downing and apple martini when I see a guy making his way over to me.

“Hey.” he says and makes himself comfortable next to me.

“Hi.” I take a shot of something Kris ordered before and ignore him but he has other ideas.

“Do you want to dance?” He asks. I look over at him and want to laugh. He’s wearing a shiny silver shirt and has a gold chain hanging down his neck as well as one that fits like a choker. What a loser.

“No thanks.” I try to brush him off but he just sits there.

“Come on, one dance.” He runs his hands through his greased hair and I hide back my laughter.

“No thank you.” I scan the dance floor for Kris but don’t see her anywhere. I want this guy to go away. I spot Kris finally and wave her over.

“What’s up?” She asks me out of breath from dancing. I dart my eyes to the unwanted man hoping she will get rid of him for me. She’s better at this sort of thing.

“Hey would you mind flipping off?” She tells him and the look on his face makes me almost spit my drink out.

“Thanks.” I manage to say after I wipe my mouth. She gets the waitresses attention and orders another round of something. I don’t care at this point what I’m drinking.

~*~2 hours later~*~*

“… and you know I loved that bastard but ugh he’s such a dickhead.” I’m downing shot after shot and talking out of my ass.

“Liz you’re drunk.” Kris laughs but I shake my head no.

“I’m not, I’m fine. God, I love that miserable fuck! How could I be so stupid?”

“Liz come on lets get out of here.” She tries to get me up but I’m not moving.”

“No, I don’t want to go.” I down another one and point a finger at her. “It’s your fault you know. You should have stopped me. I thought you were my friend.”

“I am your friend. You’re freaking trashed man.” She looks at me and laughs.

“I am not Krissy.”

“Uhh yeah you are.”

“Why can’t shit work out for me? Why does shit like this happen to me? First my parents, then my grandmother, then Eric and now that bastard. Ugh I hate him!” I throw my hands up in frustration and look for another drink.

“You’re done for the night girl.”

“I want another drink Krissy. Come on don’t be like that.” I wine.

“Liz come on lets go.” This time she manages to get me up and we make our way out of the club.

“He was so good in bed too.” I say once we are in the car. “He knew just what to do.” I smile thinking of all the time we had sex.

“I bet he was.” She says and pulls out of the parking lot.

“Do you know that we did it everywhere?”

“Ok too much information Liz.”

“Take me over there Krissy. I want to see him.” I say sitting up way to fast. I feel sick.

“No freaking way! You’re trashed; your ass is going home to sleep this off.”

“Come on. You’re no fun.” I laugh once the dizziness went away.

“Say whatever you want but your not going anywhere but home.” I let the cool breeze hit my face as we drive on the freeway. I wonder if Max would take me tonight like he did all those other nights. I long to have him touch me again, I miss him.

“I really do love him Kris; I love him so much it hurts. It literally hurts me to not be with him.”

“Then be with him.” She says turning onto my block.

“But ugh he’s such a jerk!”

“Alright drunk ass lets go.” Kris helps me out of the car and we walk to the front door.

“He hates me.” I say once we are inside my apartment.

“He doesn’t.” She helps me to my room and pulls out some clothes for me.

“He does he said he does. No one can love me. I’m un loveable.”

“Your not un-lovable.” She takes my shoes off and puts them next to the bed.

“Max used to undress me.” I giggle at her expression.

“I’m sure he did.” She says taking my earrings off for me.

“I used to undress Max.”

“I know you did.” She maneuvers around my room looking for something for me to wear to bed.

“I used to sleep naked with Max.” She quirks an eyebrow at me and I laugh.

“Stop it. Lift up your arms.” She helps me change and goes to get me some water. I sit on the edge of my bed and reach over to grab the phone.

~*~Max~*~

“It’s almost 2 in the morning when I hear my phone ring.

“Hello.” I answer wondering who this is.

“Max?” It’s Liz but she sounds different.

“Liz?” I say sitting up.

“Do you hate me?” She asks.

“No angel I don’t hate you. You know that.” What the hell is going on?

“I don’t hate you.” She giggling and I think she’s drunk.

“Are you drunk?” I ask.

“No. why?” I hear her hiccup and know that she is.

“Liz you are drunk.”

“You know I love you I mean really, really love you.” I hear someone say ‘what the fuck are you doing’ and she hangs up. It sounded like Kris but I’m not sure. What the hell was that all about?

~*~Liz~*~

“What the fuck are you doing?” Kris come in the room and catches me on the phone.

“Nothing.”

“Please don’t tell me you called Max.” I hang up the phone quickly and don’t say anything.

“Oh God, what did you say?” She hands me the glass of water and I sit there in silence.

“Nothing.” I mutter before taking a gulp of water.

“You need to go to bed and no more drunken phone calls please.” I lay down suddenly feeling exhausted and quickly fall asleep.

~*~Max~*~

What the hell was that about? It was obvious that she was drunk but why would she call me and did she mean what she said? I’ve heard that people often speak the truth when they are drunk but don’t want to get my hopes up too high. I lay awake for what seems like hours before I finally drift off to sleep.

The next morning I wake up early and decide to go surfing for a while. With all the work I’ve been doing I haven’t had much time to do anything once I get home. I walk back to the house and hear the doorbell ringing. Rushing to get to the door I almost fall and break my neck.

“Maxie!” It’s Bianca. What the hell is she doing here?

“Bianca, what are you doing here?” I ask running my hands through my hair and realizing that I have no shirt on.

“Can’t I stop by?” She asks walking past me into the house. “I’ve missed you.” She says making herself comfortable on the sofa. I search for a t-shirt but don’t have one nearby and I’m not leaving her alone while I go get one.

“Bianca we talked about this the other day. I told you to find someone else.” I sigh and cross my arms in front of my chest. I feel too exposed.

“Come on Maxie, you and I both know you weren’t serious about that.” She laughs and walks towards me.

“I was serious. You can’t be here.” She is standing dangerously close to me.

“Why not Max? Don’t you miss me?” She runs her hands down my chest and I feel violated.

“No I don’t. Why are you doing this?” I ask after removing her hands off of me.

“Doing what? We had something good going Max, you can’t deny that.” That was true at one point but that‘s not what I want anymore.

“That was in the past. Things changed.”

“Please, a person like you could never change. I know you Max I know what you like and you are definitely not a one woman man.” She’s pissing me off now.

“You need to leave. I told you it was over, that hasn’t changed.” She moves closer to me and grabs my ass before leaning in for a kiss. She grabs on tighter and snakes her tongue against mine exploring every inch of my mouth. I’m frozen and it takes me a moment to process what just happened. I pull away and take a step back.

“What the fuck are you doing? I told you to leave and you kiss me? Get out!”

“Your pussy whipped! God, you are pathetic. You used to be up for a good time what happened Max?”

“None of your business. Get the fuck out!” She huffs and walks to the door. I open it for her and wait for her to leave.

“I knew you weren’t man enough for me but I wanted to give you another chance. It’s too bad for you Max, I could have shown you a nice time.”

“Yeah well I’ll take the loss.” She steps outside but turns to me.

“It’s been nice Maxie.” She says and once again catches my lips. I quickly pull away and when I look up I see Liz standing in the doorway wide eyed. This is just great! Shit!

[Icequeen]

I love how the chapter that I hated the most got a lot of you thinking. A couple of people are on to something about Bianca. I won’t say who or what but I’m sure it’s not hard to figure out. As for when that will be revealed well, it will be a minute cause well…I’m just evil! Thank you again, hopefully this chapter will resolve some issues.

ISLANDGIRL5
Erina
vampyrax
Roswell 10/2/00
Poison Ivy
Gater101
martine
extingman
Alien614
su-lyn
begonia9508
Behrsgirl1230
g7silvers
Ellie
Thanette
janesdilemma
Mariael311
lazza
561270
VeronicB
Emz80m
roswell3053
Michelle in Yonkers
cherie
LovinGuerin2Much
frenchkiss70

~~Chapter 33~~

~*~Liz~*~

I woke up this morning with a headache and jumped in the shower hoping it would help. When I walk out of my room I see Kris in the living room watching TV.

“Morning sunshine.” She says and hands me a bottle of aspirin.

“Thanks.” I say and sit next to her. “So on a scale of 1-10 how much of a fool did I make of myself last night?” I ask before popping two of the pills.

“11.” She says with a smile.

“Shut up! Really how bad was it?” I ask wondering how much of an idiot I was.

“It wasn’t that bad until you decided to call Max at 2AM.”

“What?! Please tell me you are joking Kris.” I ask knowing that she’s not.

“Oh I wish I was babe but you called drunk and all. I didn’t hear what you said but you got a good 5 minutes I would say.”

“Oh God. I don’t remember any of that. Crap I wonder what I said?” I ask trying to remember.

“Who the hell knows.” She shrugs and turns her attention back to the TV.

“Well now that you are normal I’m going to go. Your sofa is so not comfortable. You owe me.” She gets her things and leaves.

What the hell did I say to him? Only one way to find out. I get courage from somewhere and drive to his house. Hopefully he’s home.

~*~Max~*~

The last person I would have expected to see this morning was Bianca until I saw Liz. She stands there in shock as Bianca slowly walks to her car taking one last look behind her shoulder at Liz.

“Sorry, I guess I should have called.” She says once we hear Bianca’s car start up.

“It’s not what it seems.” I say stepping aside to let her in but she doesn’t move.

“Seems like you and her had a nice time. She thanked you for something.” I guess he didn’t see the kiss. Good, I’m not in the mood to get into that right now.

“Like I said it’s not what it seems.” I gesture for her to come inside but she still doesn’t move.

“To think I came over here to talk to you only to find you back to your old habits.”

“Whatever. I don’t have time for this. If your just going to accuse me of shit then you can go.” I feel a headache coming on and rub my temples to ward it off.

“Fine enlighten me.” She says and comes inside.

~*~Liz~*~

I step inside the house and so many memories come flooding back. I was here not too long ago but being here with him standing inches from me feels familiar. I glance to the backyard and fight to hide a smile at all the time we spent out there.

“She came over uninvited.” He says moving to the kitchen to get something to drink. I notice that he’s in his board shorts and realize that he has been surfing, his hair is still wet.

“Uninvited huh?” I say with a raised eyebrow.

“That’s what I said.” He pours himself some juice and offers me some.

“It doesn’t really matter anyway.” I say taking the juice.

“Well I’m glad that’s cleared up. So, what bring you by?” He leans against the counter with his arms folded across his chest. When did he become like this? Oh right, when I said I needed time.

“I umm wanted to talk about what I said last night. Well, this morning when I called you.” I say nervously.

“So why didn’t you just call?” He asks.

“I don’t know. Anyway, did I say anything embarrassing?”

“No.” He says with a smile and now I’m scared at what I might have said.

“Umm what did I say?” I ask nervously.

“Just forget about it, you were drunk. It doesn’t matter right?”

“Right.” I say and just stand there. A part of me doesn’t want to go but I have no reason to stay.

“So um you were surfing today?” I ask feeling like an idiot.

“Yeah.” He finishes his juice and rinses the cup in the sink. He stares at me almost as if he’s looking through me and I swallow hard not knowing what to do next or what he’s going to do next.
“I have a few things to do today so…” The last word lingers in the air. I must have really hurt him for him to be acting like this with me. He starts to walk away but I stop him.

“Max wait.” He stops but doesn’t turn to face me. That hurts.

“Liz I can’t do this. I can’t do the two steps forward three steps back thing, I’m sorry.” He lowers his head and walks away leaving me standing there dumbstruck. Have I messed this up completely? I feel like a stranger in his house so I leave with tears in my eyes.

As I drive home I realize that I’m always walking away from things. I’m always running but to what? To nothing that’s what. I don’t have family and the one person that loves me more then anything in his life is the one person I keep walking away from.

“Nice going Liz.” I say sarcastically to myself. “Way to fuck things up.” The drive home was extremely long but it gave me time to think. This has to stop. I can’t run forever, I’m getting too good at it.

~*~*Max~*~

I hated doing that to her but she can’t just come here and expect me forget everything that has happened. I don’t think that she’s ready to commit to me completely and it kills me but I have to let her come to me. I can’t make her love me.

I didn’t have anything to do today and would have loved nothing more then to pull her into my arms and make love to her but it wouldn’t be right. I want her more then anything.

I sit in my office staring at the computer screen. I can’t think straight and trying to do any work isn’t working for me right now. The phone rings and snaps me out of my thoughts.

“Hello.”

“Max.” Liz says quietly. Here we go again.

“Yeah.” I’m trying not to be a hard ass.

“I want to talk to you.”

“About what Liz? About how you need more time? You’ve talked enough.” I blow out a breath and sit on the sofa.

“Not about that. Please, I need to talk to you.”

“Fine.” She tells me she will be right over and I hang up. I can’t wait to see what she has to say now. One thing I know is that if she starts with her excuses then I’m done. As much as it will kill me I’ll have to walk away.

~*~Liz~*~

“I’m going over there now.” Kris called and I tell her about my plan as I get into the car.

“Well it’s about damn time.” She laughs.

“I know. No more running.” I say sliding the key into the ignition.

“Good. Call me later.” She hangs up and I drive back to Max’s house. The drive seems shorter this time, maybe it’s because I’m rushing to get over there. I pull up to the driveway and take a deep breath. Here goes nothing.

~*~Max~*~

I hear her car pull up and open the door for her before she knocks. She walks in and we sit in the living room. I have so much to say but I’m going to let her do the talking this time.

“Max I know that I haven’t been your favorite person lately and I’m sorry for that. I know that it wasn’t fair of me to push you away like that but that’s how I deal with things.”

“It’s not right.” She shifts in her seat and I can tell she’s nervous.

“I know it’s not but old habits are hard to break I guess.” She smirks.

“Mine weren’t.” Where did that come from? She looks hurt and I regret saying it now.

“Your right again. I realize that I messed up, we both messed up but you tried to be there for me and I pushed you away.” I guess she’s waiting for me to say something but I’m not going to. Not until she lets it all out.

“I know that you lost a baby too but for me it was different. The baby was in my body. I lost something physically as well as emotionally. I guess I just didn’t know how to handle it.”

“So what changed? Why are you here now after I tried to get this across to you for days?” I cross my legs over the coffee table waiting for her answer.

“I just-I- I guess the thought of losing you was too much. The thought of actually losing you forever scared me. I don’t want to lose you.” It’s not enough.

“I don’t want you to be with me because you are scared. That’s not a reason to be with anyone. You should be with me because you truly love me.” I see the tears forming in her eyes and want nothing more then to reach over and kiss them away but I don’t.

“I-I do love you Max. Can’t you see that?” She looks up at me and a tear slips down her face.

“No. I can’t see that. What I do see is someone that is scared. Your scared of being alone Liz and I don’t want that. I want someone to be with me because the are madly in love with me. Scared can’t be an emotional factor for being with someone. I’m sorry but I can’t do this.” I get up with every intention of going back to my office.

“Max wait! Please.” I stop but don’t look up at her. Her voice is trembling and it’s killing me.

“What Liz?” It comes out softer then I thought it would. Can’t she see that she’s broken my heart? How can she not know.

“I-I don’t know what else to do. I do love you, I love you so much Max. I’m sorry, I know that I messed up but I’m here now. I’m trying to make things right.” I take a few steps closer towards her but I’m still at arms length. My hands itch to touch her hair but I hold back.

“Yes you are here now, but what about tomorrow? How do I know you wont get scared and pull away again? That seems to be your M.O.” I step back and lean against the back of the couch.

“Your right, it was but not anymore. I don’t want to walk away from you anymore Max. I want to walk towards you.”

“I don’t know if I can trust you Liz. You have done nothing but doubt my love for you when I’ve only shown the best intentions.” Her bottom lip trembles and again I resist the urge to pull her into my arms.

“I don’t know how to convince you Max.”

“It sucks doesn’t it?” I laugh bitterly. She looks at me puzzled and I shake my head. “It wasn’t that long ago when I was the one trying to convince you of my love and now here you are trying to do the same and you expect me to just accept it when you couldn’t?”

“I-I-”

“You what? Say it!” I snap at her. “Stop being scared and say what’s on your mind for once.”

“All I can say is that I love you.” She lowers her head

“Maybe I don’t believe you.” Her head snaps up and I see the tears that have rolled down her face.

“Well that’s too bad because it’s true.” I’m taken back a little by her words. I half expected her to cry more but she looked defiant, strong even.

“Is it?” I say and step close to her. So close that I can smell her soft perfume.

“Y-yeah it is.” She licks her lips cause me to do the same. I trail a finger down her cheek and use the pads of my thumbs to brush away her tears.

“If we are going to do this it has to be all the way Liz. I won’t be in a half ass relationship, not anymore. You have to be in this one-hundred percent or not at all.” She nods her head and sniffles a little.

“I want to be in this Max, all the way. I want to be with you.” She wipes the tears from her eyes and smiles at me.

“You can’t pull away from me again. No matter what Liz, you can’t pull away from me. We are in everything together now.” I’m inches away from her.

“I know. I won’t Max, not again.” I stare at her as if she was my prey. My hands cup her face and I lean down for a soft kiss. Her arms wrap around my neck and I lift her up pulling her flush against me. I missed her, I missed this. The feel of her velvet skin as I run my hands under her shirt drives me wild.

She wraps her legs around my waist and I carry her to the bedroom placing her gently down in the middle of the bed.

“I missed you.” She says running her hands through my hair. I lift my shirt over my head and throw it on the floor before laying next to her.

“My too angel.” my hands cup her breasts over her shirt. I want to take it slow.

“Maxxx.” She hisses when I pull her shirt up. My hands are cold on her hot skin. I roll her nipple between my fingers and watch her face as she moans in pleasure.

“Liz I want you so badly.” I lean over and engage in a passionate kiss snaking my tongue into her mouth. I pull away when the need for air becomes necessary.

“Are you sure?” I ask when I feel her hands on the waist band of my shorts.

“God yes.” She said before sliding her hand into my shorts.

“Liz, I’m serious. Are you sure it’s ok?”

“Positive. Everything is fine.” She says caressing my face. I realize that there still are things that we need to talk about but they can wait for now.

“We can wait if…”

“Max it’s fine. Everything is fine. Do you not want to?” She asks.

“No! I mean I want to but I don’t want to hurt you or anything.” I place a kiss on the tip of her nose.

“You won’t. I trust you.” I lean down and place butterfly kisses on her stomach internally mourning the loss of our child for a moment.

“Maybe we should…use something.” My mouth goes dry as soon as I say it. Liz and I have never thought about protection.

“Yeah um I guess we umm should.” She turns away from me and I feel as if I said something wrong. Is she mad because I have the protection or because I brought it up?

“Hey, look at me.” I place my finger under her chin and get her to look at me. “No more running remember?”

“It’s stupid.” she says and tries to look away.

“I’m sure it’s not and even if it is so what. You have to talk to me angel. You have to want to tell me things. I can’t read your mind baby.” Was this a mistake? Was she not ready for this?

“Well you said protection so that means that you have some and I’m wondering why.” I knew that was it.

“Sweetheart you know how I was when we first met. I’ve always had them in the bathroom. That doesn’t mean that I’ve been using them when we were apart, but yes I have some.”

“I know. That’s why I said it was stupid.” She sighs and I smooth her hair back and kiss her cheek.

“Are you sure that’s it?” I want her to tell me everything from now on. She shakes her head no and bits her bottom lip.

“What if I don’t want to?” I almost didn’t hear her it was so low.

“Then we won’t.” I say matter of factly.

“What?”

“Shhh you think too much. You don’t want to then we won’t.” I silence her by pacing my lips over her mouth. A primal instincts takes over me and I practically rip out clothes off. I nestle between her legs kissing a trail from her collar bone down to her toes.

“Max please, I need you.” She pants and I waste no time burying myself deep within her. I look for signs of discomfort but only get a warm smile for her urging me to go on.

“You ok?” I ask still not moving inside her.

“Perfect.” She says and pulls me down for a hungry kiss. The kiss sets the tone for the rest of out lovemaking. Our positions switched over and over neither being able to get enough of each other.

“God Liz!” I pull out of her completely before plunging back into her slow and sensual.

“Ahh yes Max.” Her moans drive me wild but I keep a slow and steady pace. It’s taking every once of willpower that I have but I want to savor every moment of tonight. Tonight we make love as two people that have admitted their true feelings. We make love as two people that are truly in love with no secretes between them.

“God how can you always feel this good?” I ask already knowing the answer. She’s an angel, a goddess and she’s mine.

“I love you Max.” She traces a path down my back with her nails and I bite my lip loving the pain.

“I love you angel.” This is new territory for me, saying that while I’m making love to someone. I like it.

“Max I’m close..” She bites down on my shoulder and I pick up my pace wanting to tumble over the edge with her.

“Let go.” I lean down and whisper into her ear. “I’ll catch you.”

“Ahh Maaaxxxxx.” She screams as she falls over the edge bringing me with her moments later. I spill my seed into her and a part of me silently prays that it will make a child.

“Your beautiful. I love watching you fall apart. Are you alright?” I ask laying next to her.

“I’m fine Max. I would tell you if anything hurt.” I pull the blankets over us and we drift of to sleep both spent.

~*~Kitchen~*~

Everything is perfect. I never thought I’d be saying this but things are great. When I woke up after our nap I almost didn’t think she was really there with me. Realizing that we slept through lunch I got up to make us something.

“Hey.” She walks into the kitchen with one of my t-shirts on.

“Hi.” I wrap my arms around her waist and place a kiss on her temple.

“Whatever that is it smells great. I’m starved.” She hops on the counter and peers over to the stove.

“Good. It will be ready soon.” I stand between her legs. “You look good in my clothes.”

“You look better.” She says putting her arms on my shoulders and resting her forehead on mine.

“Stay with me tonight?” I ask before walking back over to the stove. I don’t want anything to burn.

“Of course.” She says and hops off the counter.

~*~Max’s office~*~

“You are mighty chipper this morning. What gives?”

“Michael my man it feels good to be in love.” I smile and lean back in my chair.

“Yes it does. I never thought I’d hear those words coming out of your mouth though.”

“Yeah me either. I can honestly say that I’m one hundred percent happy right now.” I spin around in my chair like a kid.

“I can see that. It’s nice to have you back to well…semi normal.” He laughs.

“How do you do it?” I ask him

“Do what?”

“No run around screaming off the rooftops how much in love you are? I feel like I want to tell the world right now.” I grin.

“Man you go it bad don’t you?” He laughs.

“Yes I do.” He leaves and I spin around a few more times in my chair. I feel so alive right now. When I woke up Liz was spooned up against me, it was heaven. We took a shower had breakfast together and she kissed me goodbye just like a normal married couple. Can life get any better then this? I think not.

Work calls but I order Liz some white roses, she told me they were her favorite last night as we sat up and talked about the little things that make each other tick. I order the flowers and do some work but can’t wait to come home to her tonight.

~*~Max’s house~*~

“You my friend are glowing. I take it everything went well?” Kris came over and we are sitting outside working on our tans.

“Very.” I can’t wipe of the cheesy grin I have on my face.

“Good. Now that all is well in Max and Liz land let’s talk about me.” She tells me about this guy that she bumped into in a coffee shop.

“That’s great. So you gave him your number?”

“Yeah but I’m sure like a typical guy he won’t call. We had the most amazing conversation though. It’s like everything clicked for us you know?” I’m happy for her I just hope this jerk calls her.

“It’s awesome when that happens. He’ll call. If he has any brains at all he’ll call you.”

“I hope so.” We lay out for a little while later when the doorbell rings. I get up to answer it and come back with the most beautiful white roses I’ve ever seen.

“That from lover boy?” Kris asks when I bring them outside.

“Yeah.” I say beaming.

“God your making me sick already. Your too damn happy, stop it.” She laughs.

“I really am. I’m too happy I think.”

“Don’t be like that. You deserve to be happy, enjoy it.” We jump in the pool when we can’t the heat any more and I hear my cell phone ring. I don’t have a chance to answer it and see that I have a message.

Hi Liz, it’s Erika. I was just calling about our trip to Vegas. I know that you’ve been busy and we haven’t kept in touch but I was just wondering if you still wanted to go. Give me a call. I miss talking to you hope everything is going well for you. Talk to you later.

With everything that’s been going on I’ve totally forgot about her. I feel badly about it now that I think about it.

“Who was it?” Kris asks drying off then settling back on the lounge chair.

“Erika.” I say tossing the phone aside.

“Wow. When was the last time you talked to her?”

“Since right before we went to Vegas.” I sit back and put my sunglasses on.

“What did she say?”

“She was calling about the trip we planned. I haven’t talked to her in so long I had forgotten about it.” I say sadly.

“Are you going to go?”

“I don’t know. I’m going to call her later though.”

“It must be hard seeing her after everything that happened.” I nod and think about everything that has happened. Erika was Eric’s younger sister. Her and I were sort of close when Eric and I were dating but after the accident we became closer. Every year around the time of the accident we would take a trip somewhere for the weekend. I forgot about the trip to Vegas we planned right before she turned 21. We were going to live it up as she put it. I feel like I’ve changed to much over the past few months. I think it would be strange seeing her now but I can’t just drop her either.

~*~Max~*~

“So anything new with Liz’s case?” Michael asks me.

“I was just about to open an e-mail from my father. It’s marked urgent.” I click open the document and read through it.”

“Good news?” Michael asks.

“Yeah. The best news.” I send a reply to my father and turn to face Michael.

“Turns out that the tapes were doctored after all. They took some footage of Liz staying at her place and made it look like she was there for three weeks.”

“She wasn’t though was she?” He asks.

“No. Not even close. My father has a meeting today with the lawyers that handled the estate and he feels strongly about her getting the house back right away.”

“Yeah no shit. He should sue them too.”

“Oh he is. He’s also pressing charges against the P.I. That made the tapes.” I twist open a bottle of water and take a sip.

“That’s great man. Liz is going to be so happy. What about Tess? She did have something to so with this didn’t she?”

“Yeah I’m sure she did. I’m also sure that when this guy gets a lawsuit thrown at him he’ll sing like a canary about Tess’s involvement.” I say that with great pleasure. It would get her out of Liz’s hair and mine once and for all.

“I can’t wait for that to happen. She deserves whatever happens to her.” He gets up and walks to the door.

“I completely agree.” I say before he walks out. I grab my things and head home. I can’t wait to share the news with Liz.

[Icequeen]

Sorry guys but this is a fly by posting. RL totally sucks right now . I looked it over briefly so sorry for any errors in advance. Thank you as always for the awesome FB!

~~Chapter 34~~

~*~Max~*~

I come home early and find Liz and Kris hanging out by the pool. I stand there watching them for a moment. Liz looks so carefree right now. They are sitting on the lounge chairs no doubt gossiping about something.

“Hey, your home early.” She says walking over towards me. She’s wet but I pull her towards me anyway giving her a deep kiss and swatting her but as she walks away to get a towel.

“So what are you lovely ladies up to today?” I ask taking a seat near them.

“Not much.” Kris says. Liz just sits quietly.

“Sounds fun.” I laugh. “ I’m going to change.” I get up and walk to my room. Liz looked like something was on her mind.

~*~Pool~*~

“What the hell was that about?” Kris asks when Max goes inside.

“Nothing. I just have a lot on my mind that’s all.”

“Alright. I’m going to go. Have fun.” She winks and gets her things. I stay outside thinking about Erika and wondering if I should call her or not. I wonder how Max would feel about it?

“Hey, you ok?” He asks when he comes back out.

“Yeah just got a phone call today from Erika.” I say wondering if he even remembers her.

“Oh.” I guess he did. “What did she say?” He asks pouring himself some iced tea.

“She called about a trip that we had panned a while ago. She um wanted to know if I wanted to go.”

“Do you?”

“I don’t know. So much has changed, I just don’t know.” I sigh and lay back on the chair.

“Would you like anything special for dinner?” He asks totally changing topics.

“No. Whatever you want is fine.” He gets up and goes inside and I don’t even know what to think at this point. Was he mad? And if he was why? I’m getting a headache.

~*~Max~*~

I order some Chinese and grab a bottle of beer. I’m jealous of a friend of hers. It’s stupid. I shake my head and laugh.

“Hey, I have some good news for you.” I say from the kitchen.

“Really? What is it?” She hops up on the counter and swings her legs back and forth.

“I got an e-mail from my father and he found out that the tape was doctored. They made it look like we were living apart for three weeks.”

“W-what?”

“Yeah, it’s crazy I know. So my father has a meeting tomorrow with your lawyers. He feels good about this all being settled quickly. He’s also filing suit against the lawyers and the P.I that made the tapes. Liz, Tess hired the guy.” I say holding her hands in mine.

“I knew she had something to do with it.” She says

“So did I. It was just too convenient for her. As soon as everything is done I’ll let you know.”

“Thank you Max, for everything I mean. I know it must have been hard dealing with your father so thank you.” She leans over and kisses me softly.

“Anything for you angel.”

We have dinner in front of the TV something that has become a regular occurrence lately.

“So what are we watching tonight?” I ask once our plates are loaded up.

“The Godfather.” She says loading up the DVD player.

“I’ve seen this one.” I say.

“Wow well congratulations. Your still watching it though.” I laugh and dig into my food.

“I like part 3 better.” She says in the middle of the movie.

“Me too.”

“You did not see part 3.” She smacks my arm.

“Liz, these are classics, a must see. I haven’t been under a rock, I’ve seen a few movies. The important ones.”

“And what are those exactly? Daisy does Dallas doesn’t count.”

“Shut up! I don’t watch porn.” I say defending myself while she laughs at me.

“Liz, I don’t watch porn.” She’s still laughing at me.

“Sure you don’t.” She says taking her plate to the kitchen.

“I don’t.” I’m still trying to defend myself. She bursts out laughing.

“You should have seen your face. I don’t care if you watch porn.” She pinches my cheek.

“You were fucking with me. Not a good idea.” I pin her underneath me on the sofa.

“Really. What are you going to do about it?” She asks sucking on my earlobe.

“It looks like I’m going to have to teach you a lesson.” My hand slides under her shirt and grazes her breasts.

“Have I been a bad girl?’

“Oh yeah. Very bad.” I snake my hand under her bra and roll her nipple between my fingers. She closes her eyes and licks her lips.

“Good. Then punish me Max. Punish me hard.” I can’t do what I want to do to her on the sofa so I lift her up and carry her to the bed.

“Lay there for a second.” I tell her and go into my closet in search of a few things. When I come back out I see her in the middle of the bed with her eyes closed.

“Sit up for a second.” I tell her and wait for her to follow. I use one of my silk ties and secure it around her head making sure her eyes are completely covered.

“Max?”

“Shhh. Your being punished remember?” I laugh a little because this isn’t really going to be a punishment. While still in a sitting position I strip her of her clothing leaving her in her black lace underwear. I gather the rest of my tools for the night but think twice about it for a moment. What if she asks where I got this from? What if she gets upset that I even have this stuff? Fuck! I guess I’ll just have to go with it hopefully it doesn’t backfire on me.

“What’s wrong?” She asks after a while.

“Nothing angel.” I look down on her, so trusting, so beautiful and know that this is right. We are meant to be together. I can feel it in my bones.

Gently I lay her back down and open one of the containers I have. I grab the small brush and dip it into the powder then begin to slowly brush it against her skin. My touches are feather light and she moans a little as I trail the brush up and down her thighs.

“You like that?” I ask her kissing the spot closest to her core.

“Y-yes.” The powder tastes sweet but then again so does Liz. I use my teeth to slide her underwear down her thighs. Finally she is fully exposed to me and I sit up on my knees just taking in the beauty of her. My erection is painfully straining against my shorts but I hold off on taking them off wanting to take things slow this time.

I reach behind me and grab the small bottle squeezing some of the liquid onto my fingers.

“I want to see you too.” She says softly.

“You will angel but not yet.” I gently nudge her legs apart and brush my fingers against her heat. I rub small circles around her nub and bend down to blow softly on her center.

“Ohhh. What is that?”

“You like it?” I ask huskily.

“Oh God yes!” I blow a little more and smile at her reaction. The liquid has mint, blowing on it enhances the effect. I see her clutching the sheets and I continue to rub small light circles on her nub and go in for the kill. My tongue softly brushes against her core and I hear her moans get louder.

“Oh God Max.” She shouts out. Parting her lips with my fingers I quickly lick her nub over and over.

“Yesssss.” She hisses clutching the sheets. I can’t take it anymore and need to take my shorts off. I slide them off my legs as fast as I can and resume my position at her core.

“Max I’m so close.”

“Then let go ‘cause it won’t be the last one tonight.” I set a pace and bring her to completion eliciting moans and pants from her. I don’t do this often and found a new love for it. One she comes down from her high I slide the tie off her head and lean down for a searing kiss.

“That was different.”

“Yes it was. Did you like it?” I ask caressing her face.

“I loved it. I love anything with you.” She runs her hand down my chest softly stroking my aching member.

“What should we do about this?” She asks with a raised eyebrow.

“Whatever you want. It’s yours.” She grins and looks around for something.

“What are you-” She grabs the bottle of lubricant and smiles before pushing my back down onto the bed.

“Liz you don’t-”

“Shhh. You talk to much.” I see her squeeze some out onto her hands then feel her stroke me up and down slowly. It feels amazing and I submit myself to her control completely. The friction of her hand warms up the liquid and I find myself clutching the sheets much like she did earlier.

“Do you like it?” She asks.

“Oh yeah.” I close my eyes and lick my lips wanting nothing more then to be inside her right now. She stops stroking me and I attempt to sit up when I feel her mouth envelope me. The heat from her mouth combined with the mint is amazing.

“Lizzzz.” I hiss at the feeling. I look down and see her dark tresses coving her face as she works her magic on me. I try to hold back but find myself bucking my hips slightly to match her movements.

“Liz stop baby, I don’t want to…” She shakes her head no quickly and I lay my head back down. I really don’t want to do this like this but she’s not giving me much choice. The way she’s sucking and licking is making it really hard to hold back.

“Liz I’m going to--Ugh Lizzzzz.” I can’t finish my statement as I feel my ending coming near. I’m way past the point of no return and feel a fire building up inside of me.

“Angel I’m going to- I don’t want to in your-oh God Liz, Liz…” I moan her name over and over as I grasp on to some control before I explode.

“Liz I’m going to-” I don’t finish as I explode into her mouth. My member pumps out my seed deep into her mouth and in a way I feel badly about it. I don’t see how it can be enjoyable for her.

“That stuff tastes good.” She wipes the corner of her mouth and leans down to give me a quick peck on the lips.

“Your beautiful.” She lays on my chest while I stroke her hair.

“I’m not but thank you for saying that.” Her hand makes small circles around my belly button and I feel my body getting ready for round two.

“Your beautiful that me and that’s all that matters.” I change out positions so I’m on top holding myself up on my elbows.

“I wish I could take a picture of this. You laying beneath me looking like a fucking goddess.” she blushes and looks away. I place my hands under her chin and look her in the eyes.

“You really have no idea how much I adore you do you?” I lean down and snake my tongue into her mouth. Her soft tongues massages mine and I feel myself getting harder by the minute. I stoke her core with my fingers before swiftly entering her in one swift motion. We both hiss at the contact and no words are spoken and we dance until our completion.

“Your too good to me.” She says once we come down from our high.

“Don’t say that. You deserve to be loved and that’s all I’m doing.”

“I love you, so much Max.”

“Me too angel.” I hug her close to my body as she drifts off to sleep. I can’t help but feel as if the other shoe is going to drop at any moment. I drift off to sleep hours later but something in the back of my mind is bugging me.

~*~Max’s office~*~

“What’s up? You look worried?” Michael asks.

“Nothing.” I lie and get up to get a bottle of water.

“Is everything still ok?”

“Yeah, everything is great.” I smile to make my point. The truth is that everything is ok so why do I feel this way?

“Ok well Maria says to make sure you and Liz stop by the house on day for dinner. She’s been bugging me about it.” He laughs.

“Ok, we will.” He walks out and I decide to focus on work.

“Mr. Evans I have a Fed-Ex for you.”

“Ok bring it in.” I wonder who is sending me a package and grab the envelope from her. I look at the sender but there isn’t a name just some initials and an address that I don’t recognize. The envelope contains a smaller yellow one and I slowly open it.

“What the fuck?” I read the contents a hundred times and still can’t believe it. It has to be a joke.

“Please God let this be a joke.” I stuff the paper back in the envelope and put it in my briefcase. The other shoe has officially dropped and boy did I feel it.

~*~Michael’s office~*~

“I’m a dead man. This would ruin me.” I slam the envelop down wanting Michael to read it.

“Is it true?” He asks after looking over the papers.

“I don’t know. Maybe. I don’t know Michael.” I sink down in my chair wanting to throw up.

“You have to know man. Think.” He says and I wish it were that easy.

“I have been!” I yell at him.

“Well think harder.” He says not commenting on my outburst.

“I don’t want to. I can’t. Fuck! What about Liz? If she found out she’d leave me for sure. I can’t lose her Michael, I wont lose her!”

“I know man, I know.” He says and hands me the papers.

“Shit! Is the Karma coming to bite me in the ass? I did this to myself I know it.”

“Maybe, but we don’t know for sure yet. Just think about it before you make any decisions.” I leave his office on the verge of tears. What the fuck else can go wrong now? Maybe I’ll get hit by a truck on the way home and die. That might not be a bad thing at this point because if Liz finds out it will be the end of us forever.

Hours later Michael comes back into my office.

“Did you find anything out?” He asks handing me some food since I didn’t go out for lunch. Eating is the last thing on my mind right now.

“No. I can’t. If I call it will be true and I’m not ready to face that yet.”

“You can’t just turn a blind eye to it Max. It’s not going to go away. Just find out then you’ll know what to do from there.” He’s right and I know it but I’m a coward. I can’t make the call, not now.

~*~2 days later ~*~

I’ve been avoiding this damn piece of paper that sits on my desk and mocks me. I try to act like nothing is wrong around Liz but she knows something is up. I try to go on as normal but it’s always there in the back of my mind laughing at me. Maybe I am a world class asshole. Maybe I had this coming to me a long time ago. Who knows. I need to do as Michael said and find out but I’m scared. I’m scared to have it become real. Damn it! Maybe I don’t deserve Liz. Maybe this is Gods way of telling me so.

I don’t even know what the hell to do at this point. If I came clean with Liz I know she wouldn’t take it well, not after everything that has happened. She’d fall apart and so would we. I could never make it better, never make it go away. If I keep this from her she would find out. I don’t even know if I could keep it from her. Who am I kidding, I couldn’t keep this from Liz even if I wanted to.

Karma, a funny word. Sneaks up on you at the worst possible moment. This is my punishment for all the sins I’ve done in the past. I knew I would need to pay up one day but why is the price this high? The price is my eternal happiness. It’s not fair. Life isn’t fair but it shouldn’t be brutal either.

“Please tell me that you found out?” Michael asks as we have lunch.

“Nope.” I say and play with my food. Why eat when I’ll be a dead man soon?

“Maxwell call off the fucking pity party and find out! What the hell is wrong with you?”

“Leave me the fuck alone please.” I push my pate aside no longer wanting to look at food.

“Sorry, no can do on this one. This is big, you need to do something about this and sitting here acting like an asshole isn’t going to make it go away.”

“Seriously leave me alone right now. I’m not in the mood. Whatever advice you feel the need to pass on to me don’t.”

“I’m not going to sit back and let you fuck up your life. Not anymore Max. Your going to listen to me because I’m right and you can’t think right now. Find out for fucks sake. It’s not that hard to just call and ask. Now get up, be a fucking man and make the call.” I can tell he’s not backing down and throw some money down on the table before getting in my car and driving off. He’s right, I know he’s right but it doesn’t make it any easier. Life is shit, I need to get over it.

~*~Max’s house~*~

“Something’s wrong Kris.” We are sitting by the pool.

“What makes you say that?” She asks flipping through a magazine.

“I don’t know, he’s closing off. It’s like he’s always thinking about something but he won’t tell me what. He’s putting up a front but I can see through it.” I sigh and toss my magazine aside. Who cares If Nick and Jessica are getting divorced?

“Try talking to him?” She asks taking the magazine I put down.

“Yeah. He keeps telling me nothing is wrong and that it’s just work but I know it’s not. It’s something big.”

“Bigger then work?”

“Yeah.” I lay back and close my eyes. What is going on Max?

“Not to be a bitch but you did this to him not too long ago.”

“Thanks for pointing that out.” I roll my eyes.

“I’m just saying, now you know how much it sucks. When you were in his position what would have made you open up?” She asks me making me really think about it.

“I don’t know.” I sigh.

“Well just give him time. He’ll come to you.” She’s right but I hate waiting

“You going to Vegas with Erika?”

“I don’t know. I haven’t even called her back yet. Maybe I should go.”

“Maybe. Call her though. Might help take your mind off things.” She throws the magazine down. “God how many magazines can they dedicate to Nick and Jessica’s divorce?” She huffs

“Yeah tell me about it.” I snort.

“I got to run. I have to pick up my dress for some party my parents are making me attend.”

“Alright.” We grab our things and walk inside.

“Shoot I need to check my e-mail really fast. Would Max mind?” She asks pointing to his office.

“Nah go ahead.” She goes into his office and I search for my keys.

~*~Max’s home office~*~

I boot up his computer and am surprised to see that as his background is a picture of he and Liz from when they went to Catalina. I smile and check my e-mail. Once I’m done reading something catches me eye from a drawer that is partially opened. Being the nosey person that I am I have to see what it is.

I open the drawer and pull out the yellow envelope. I pull out the contents and read over everything twice just to make sure I’m not imagining this.

“That rat bastard! I’ll kill him!” I shove the papers back in the envelope and put it back in the drawer. Taking a few moments to compose myself I walk back out to face Liz.

~*~Max’s office~*~

I’m a zombie. A walking dead man. I can’t eat, can’t sleep and can’t work. I try to put up a façade in front of Liz but it’s getting harder and harder to do that. I can barely look at her in the eye. We make love and I’m detached. She knows something is up but hasn’t pushed me on it.

“Mr. Evans I have Kris out here to see you.” I snap out of my thoughts and quickly tell her that I’m busy. I really don’t feel like talking to anyone right now.

“Sir she umm, she says she’s coming in anyway.”

“Anne please I’m really not….”

“Oh no buddy your not going to just brush me off.” Kris storms in my office with Ann right behind her.

“It’s ok Anne.” I say and Kris takes a seat.

“What’s up?” I ask her.

“What’s up is what’s up with that envelope in your office Max.” She says and crosses her arms.

“What?” I ask wondering how the hell she saw it. I thought I hid it.

“I was in your office checking e-mail when I saw it. Are you stupid?”

“N-no I just didn’t…”

“Let me tell you that if Liz saw that you’d be a dead man right now. The only reason your still breathing is because I’m praying, for your sake, that you tell me this is some sort of joke.”

“I don’t know. I don’t know anything yet.” I run my hands through my hair and pace the room.

“What the hell do you mean you don’t know? How can you not know?” She asks standing up and following me around.

“I just got them in the mail. I haven‘t um looked into it yet.”

“Well get your ass on the phone and find out. IF this is true Max so help me I’ll make you wish you were dead. How the fuck could you do this?” She demands with her hands on her hips.

“I don’t even know if it’s true or not. Lets take one thing at a time ok?”

“This will kill Liz.” She says softly.

“Don’t you think I know that? That’s all I think about. Every minute of everyday I think about how this will affect Liz.” I sit on the edge of my desk wanting to break down in tears.

“I’m sorry I know this is hard for you too but she’s my friend and with everything else this would just crush her.” She puts her hand on my shoulder and I offer her a weak smile.

“Your right, I have to find out. Where did you put the envelope?” I ask worried.

“I put it away, really away. Liz won’t go in there anyway and she’s not a snooper like me so don’t worry.” I breathe a sigh of relief when she says that.

“Find out Max and don‘t make me regret not going straight to Liz with this.” She says before walking out of my office.

I need to make the call. Enough of this scared crap I need to call and find out for sure then take my next step.

[Icequeen]

Thanks guys for the FB. I’m evil so I’m going to be as evasive as I can for a while but everything will come out….eventually. Just keep in mind that there aren’t that many more parts left so it won’t be too long until it’s settled. RL still sucks so I don’t have time to thank each of you but know that it’s much appreciated!

~~Chapter 35~~

~*~Max’s house~*~

“You look like hell.” Liz says when I walk inside.

“Thanks.” I smile and place a soft kiss on her lips.

“You’ve been working really hard lately. Have you been sleeping ok?” She asks no doubt noticing the bags under my eyes.

“Yeah.” I drop down on the sofa and lean my head back closing my eyes. I feel the sofa dip and know that she’s sitting next to me. I want nothing more then to take her in my arms right not but I can’t. I’m mentally and physically exhausted.

“I didn’t know what you wanted to I thought we’d order in and maybe watch a movie?” She says lightly running her fingers through my hair.

“I’m not feeling well angel. You go ahead and order what you want.” I lean forward and kiss her forehead before walking to our room. The less I talk to her the less I feel like an asshole and a liar.

I change my clothes and lay on top of the sheets too tired to take the bed down or to take a shower right now. I lay in complete silence for a while when I hear the door slowly open.

“Hey umm if you need to be alone or something I can go.” She says softly while standing at the foot of my bed.

“Come here.” I extend my hand out to her. “I always want you here with me. I’m just not feeling good honey, it has nothing to do with you. I love you, I don’t ever want you to go. I’m just not the best company right now. Call Kris have a girls night on me.” I reach for my wallet and search for my bank card.

“Max I don’t need your money to have a good time. I’m sorry that your not feeling well.” She places a kiss on my forehead and I want to burst into tears. I love this woman so much.

“Angel, please take this. I want you to.” I hand her the card. “Have a good time.”

“I’ll call you in a few to check in on you ok?” I nod and watch her leave. I don’t deserve the honor of breathing at this point. I’m scum.

~*~Liz~*~

“What are you doing here?” Kris asks when I knock on her door.

“Max isn’t feeling well. I’ve been ordered to have a girls night.” I say and walk inside.

“Well I’m up for that. What do you want to do?” She asks me.

“Doesn’t matter. Get this, he gave me his bank card.” I say fishing it out of my purse.

“Sounds like guilt to me.” She says walking to her bedroom.

“What makes you say that?” I ask following her.

“Nothing. You know how I am I talk without thinking. Come on lets go out.” I don’t buy it but go anyway.

“Liz you can’t buy him something with his own credit card, that’s lame.” We ended up at Saks and I wanted to get Max a tie that I liked.

“I wasn’t going to. I was going to use mine.” I pull out my credit card and pay for the tie.

“You also need to get something more then socks. Come on Liz.” She rolls her eyes.

“What? I need them. I’m not in the mood to shop anyway.” I take the bag and follow behind her.

“Ok are you sure your not the one feeling sick? Come on Liz, purses!” She says dangling one in front of me.

“You’re a mess. Fine, I guess I can use a new purse.” I look around and get a purse that I’ve wanted for a while.

“Ok don’t kill me but I’m soo in the mood for Taco Hell.” She says once we’ve loaded up the bags in the car.

“Ugh that’s disgusting! I’ll take you but I’m so not eating that shit.” I turn the corner heading towards that pathetic excuse for a restaurant.

“How the hell can you eat that shit?” The smell is making me sick.

“It’s good. You know you want some.” She puts the taco under my nose.

“Ugh I’m going to vomit. Roll down the window.” I say wrinkling my nose at the smell. I look at the time and decide to call Max. We’ve been gone a few hours.

“Hey are you feeling better?” I ask when he picks up.

“A little.” He says. He sounds like he was asleep.

“I’ll be home soon. Do you need me to get you anything?” He says not and I hang up.

“Still sick?” Kris asks still eating that junk.

“Yeah. He’s been so drained lately too. He needs to take some time off or else he’ll never get better.” She rolls her eyes and I don’t think she knew I saw her doing it.

“What’s up with you?” I ask.

“Nothing. Why?”

“I don’t know you seem annoyed or something.” I say pulling up in front of her house.

“I’m not. I’m cool. Call me tomorrow ok?” She gets out and grabs her things.

“Ok.” I back out and head home. Something is going on. It’s not like her to be this way.

~*~Max’s house~*~

I hear the front door open and close my eyes. It’s better if she thinks I’m asleep. I hear her walk to the room and turn to face away from the door. She’s moving around in the room and I hear bags. I try hard not to smile but I’m glad she went shopping and had a good time, hopefully. If Kris would have said anything she would have talked by now. I hear her getting close to the bed and make my breathing more shallow. She places her hand gently on my forehead checking my temperature. After placing a kiss on my cheek she places a blanket over me and walks out.

The second she leaves tears roll down my face. I can’t do this anymore, every fiber of my being wants to tell her but I know she’d leave me. I’m selfish I know but I just can’t bare to lose her. I quietly sob into a pillow letting all my emotions out but still listening for her to come back in. I can’t let her see my cry. I bury my face into the pillow and scream why over and over. Haven’t I been through enough? Hasn’t Liz? Why would this happen now? My pillow is soaked when I pull back and I turn it over pulling it under my head so Liz doesn’t find it that way.

An hour later I feel her come into the room again and start to get ready for bed. She quietly moves around the room and soon the aroma of her lotion hits my nose. I try to control my body from reacting to the picture I have in my head of her rubbing the lotion up and down her shapely legs. I shift so that I’m facing the other way so when she gets in bed my back is towards her. We’ve never slept like this before and it’s going to kill me to not wrap my arms around her tonight.

I hear her flip the lights out and slide under the covers. She runs her hand up and down my back before wrapping her arms around me as best she can. I hear her sigh and settle into sleep. Again the tears roll down my face but silently this time. I don’t bother to wipe them way, no one can see me anyway. I have to hold my breath to not let the sobs escape. I’m exhausted but can’t sleep. This is eating me alive inside out.

~*~Max’s office~*~

“Please tell me you called.” Michael says.

“I did but didn’t get an answer.” He looks at me with a raised eyebrow.

“I did.” I say defending myself.

“Call again and again and again until you get an answer.”

“Alright I get it Jeez. Fuck off would you? At least I called.” I get up and get a bottle of water it’s the only thing I can keep down lately. I’ve given up on trying to eat.

“Meet me for lunch, I know you haven’t been eating.” He says before walking out. I haven’t been able to do a productive thing for days and Liz is on to me. It’s a matter of days before she makes me tell her what’s wrong and I can’t look her in the face and lie. Kris is only going to let me get away with it for so long too.

~*~Lunch~*~

“You really look like shit man.” We sit and order food, food I know I won’t eat.

“Thank you, because had you not pointed it out to me I wouldn’t have known.”

“Whatever. I have an idea so hear me out before you say no.” I nod for him to continue.

“Let’s say this is not bullshit. How about you pay to make it go away.” I feel bile rise in my throat.

“Out of the question. I won’t do that, absolutely not. As much as it would be an easy way out I‘d have to look at myself in the mirror at one point after that and I wouldn‘t be able to.” I drink water to keep myself from throwing up.

“Then your fucked.”

“Thanks. I love how you feel the need to constantly point out the obvious. If you have nothing productive to say then fuck off.” I throw my napkin down and leave. I need air and I need to be alone.

I walk the streets aimlessly just needing be alone to wallow in my thoughts. I thought about getting drunk but that might prompt me to start talking and I can’t afford that right now. I make my way back to the car and drive back to the office.

“Mr. Evans I have several messages for you from a Bianca.” She hands me my messages and I throw them on my desk. I check my e-mail and ignore the five that I have from John. I can’t deal with that right now. I finally decide to look at my messages and see the information I’ve been waiting for.

~*~Liz~*~

I need to call Erika. I can’t keep putting it off. Picking up my cell phone I scroll through my contacts for her number and call. It’s not or never.

“Erika, hi it’s Liz.” I say when she answers.

“Hi. How are you?” She asks.

“I’m good.” I ask her how she is and talk a little about her family.

“So I was thinking about our trip. Did you still want to go?” I ask getting to the point.

“Sure, if you do. I just need a week notice to give to work but I can go anytime.” She says.

“Ok well tell them this week and we’ll go next week.” I glance at my planner and mark the date down.

“Sounds good. It’s nice to hear from you. It’s been too long.” She says and I agree. I tell her that I’ll make the arrangements with a promise to call her back once everything is settled. Things with Max have been off so maybe a few days away will help. I don’t even know what’s really going on but hope that some time away will do something. I want desperately to ask him what’s wrong because I know he’s not really sick like he says but I don’t want to upset him.

What is wrong with me? Why should I care if I upset him or not. If we are in a relationship we need to talk. I finish putting some pictures in an envelope and go home. Hopefully he’ll talk to me today.

~*~Max~*~

I can’t sit here anymore and go home. Liz should be at the studio so I might have some alone time. It’s not that I don’t want to be around her but she gives me these looks like she knows something is wrong and I can’t take it. Maybe I’m just prolonging the inevitable. She’s going to leave me so I should just tell her and get it over with. Who the hell knows. I have no answers.

I see Michael talking to one of the secretaries when I walk out of my office.

“Going home?’ He asks when I walk past him.

“Obviously.” I say lifting up my briefcase. He doesn’t say anything and I push the down button.

When I get to the house I don’t see Liz’s car and go straight to our room. I lay on the bed as if I could get some sleep. Yeah right. I haven’t slept more then 3 hours in the past few days. My stomach protests the lack of food and I walk to the kitchen to get something to eat. Maybe I can keep something down. I heat up some soup when I hear the front door open.

“Are you feeling better?” She asks when she sees me pour the soup in a bowl.

“A little.” I lean over a give her a kiss before sitting down with the bowl.

“I’m glad. You haven’t been eating lately.” She sits next to me and there is no way I’m going to be able to eat. My nerves have my stomach in knots.

“I think I may have gotten a stomach virus or something.” I say swirling the spoon in the broth.

“I wanted to talk to you about something.” She says ignoring my comment. She knows it’s crap anyway.

“Ok.” I bring the spoon up to my mouth more for show then anything.

“Remember when I talked to you about Erika the other day?” I nod. “Well I called her today and we’re going to take that trip to Vegas next week.’

“That’s good.” I manage a smile. It may be best if she does go away for a few days.

“That’s all your going to say?”

“I’m sorry. I’m glad your going. It will be good for you.” I squeeze her hand and drop the spoon.

“Max I don’t know what’s going on but I do know that your not sick. If you don’t want to tell me then fine but just know that I know there is something going on. Whenever your ready to talk I’m here.” She gets up and now I really want to throw up. I think I’m really making myself sick now. She has no idea how badly I want to tell her but I’m a fucking coward so I won’t. I’ll let it blow up in my face like always and then bitch about it later. Story of my fucking miserable life.

I sit outside for a while enjoying the view. It’s the only pleasure I get anymore. I can’t bring myself to make love to Liz with this secret that I have. I want her badly but I just can’t do that to her. I’d feel as if I betrayed her even more then I have already.

I walk to the bedroom and find her laying in bed reading a magazine. She closes it when I walk in and adjusts herself in the bed.

“I’m just going to shower really fast.” I say and grab my clothes. I stand under the spray and just let the water his my back and neck. Maybe if I turn it on hot enough it will wash away some the guilt that I have.

I’m in the middle of lathering my hair when I feel the breeze from the shower door opening.

“Hey.” She says softly and helps me wash the soap out of my hair. Her touch is making me hard but I need to push her away.

“Angel I want you badly but I’m not feeling well.” I kiss the tips of her fingers and hope she understands. She stands there and I see the tears forming in her eyes. Her face isn’t wet yet and when I see the tear roll down her face it takes all my might not to break down too.

“You have no idea how much I love you. Don’t cry angel, it breaks my heart.” With the pads of my thumb I wipe the tears away.

“Max I love you too but why don’t you want me?”

“Liz you have no idea who much I want you. I always want you don’t ever doubt that or my love for you.” I lift her face to look into my eyes.

“Don’t ever doubt me Liz. I care for you above all others, above myself.” Her chin trembles and she breaks down into tears again.

“Angel please don’t cry. It kills me to see you upset.” I pull her towards me and rest her head on my chest.

“Tell me Max. Whatever it is just please tell me. I can’t take this anymore.” God I wish I could tell her. This would have been the perfect time but I’m a coward so I lean down and kiss her pouring all of my love into that kiss. I need her to know to feel how much I love her. I feel my erection pressing against her stomach and can’t hold back any longer.

“God Liz you drive me crazy.” I pull away from her and suck on her neck. I reach over and turn off the water then carry her to the bed. Our bed.

“God I’ve missed you.” It’s been too long since we’ve made love and I’m dying to be inside her.

“Max I need you now.” Luckily we are naked already and I waste no time in burying myself in her. Her walls envelope me and I lay still for a moment taking everything in. The feeling, the smell and the look on her beautiful face. I make love to her like it’s the last time, it just might be. Tenderly I take one breast into my hands and tug on her nipple bringing it to it’s peak before sucking on it.

“Yes Max.” She moans and thrashes her head from side to side. I keep a steady pace but stop every so often to take in the sight of her face. I want it etched in my mind forever.

“Fuck Liz you feel so good.” I reach down and rub her nub in small circles.

“Max I’m close…so close.” I don’t want it to end yet and pull out.

“I don’t want it to end.” I say when she looks up at me. I’ve managed to master the art of being able to pull out and not lose my erection enabling me to make love making last hours.

“How can you be this beautiful?” I stroke her hair and lean down for a kiss. She eagerly accepts my tongue in her mouth and rubs herself over my erection.

“Liz wait.” I hiss.

“No Max I need you…please.” I can’t deny her and slowly inch my way into her. We both moan once I’m buried to the hilt.

“Fast Max. I need you.” I obey and thrust deeper and harder into her.

“Oh yes Max right there.” I angle myself to hit her sensitive spot every time I thrust into her.

“Liz.” I moan. She feels so good.

“Max I’m almost there. Oh Max.” She chants over and over. I feel myself getting close to the edge and want her to come with me.

“Let go Angel.” I whisper in her ear.

“Come with me.” She says. I tell her that I’m there and we both let go at the same time.

I situate myself next to her and she curls up against me.

“I love you.” She says before drifting off to sleep. Our love making was beautiful but I’m left with a sick feeling. I feel like a total liar. I should have told her. I know I should but I just can’t. I can’t lose her. I need to find a way to deal with this on my own without her finding out.

~*~Max’s office~*~

“Mr. Evans, Philip Evans is on line 3 for you.” I finish off my e-mail and answer the phone.

“Hello.”

“Maxwell. Great news. Mr. Tierney has agreed to turn over the property to Liz. Well to be honest he didn’t have a choice. Once the partners got wind of what happened he got sacked. I’m moving forward with the litigation against the P.I and Miss Harding. Papers should be delivered to her residence tomorrow.”

“That’s great news.” I’m shocked.

“Just have Liz come by my office to sign off on the papers.”

“Ok. Thank you…Dad.” The words come thickly out of my mouth.

“Your welcome.” He clears his throat and hangs up. I know that caught him off guard.

__________________________________________________

I get home and can’t wait to share the news with Liz.

“Hey, your home early.” She smiles from the sofa and rushes to greet me.

“I have great news.” I hug her tightly and walk us over to the sofa.

“Ok.” She smiles her brilliant smile and my heart breaks a little but I push those thoughts away.

“My father called today. Everything is done.”

“What?” She asks.

“The house is yours angel.” I brush a stand of hair away from her face and caress her face.

“Oh my God! Thank you!” She places kisses all over my face.

“I’m happy for you baby.” She launches herself into my arms and straddles my lap.

“You have to go into my fathers office to sign off on everything but it’s all done.”

“You seem like you are feeling better.” As soon as she says it I feel like crap again. It was nice to forget about it for a minute.

“Yeah a little.” I lie. We spend a quiet evening at home watching TV for the most part. Liz is so excited about the house. It makes me feel good to see her this happy. Hopefully it will last.

[Icequeen]

Thanks guys for the FB. RL still sucks so I’m sorry for the lack of personals. My head it about to split in half so sorry for any errors

~*~*Chapter 36~*~*

~*~Max’s office~*~

“Man I know you are tired of me saying this but you look like shit for real.”

“Thanks, and yes I am tired of you saying it.” I finish typing up and e-mail and swing around to face him.

“Well, changing topics for a moment. You need to go out to Vegas. Construction has been progressing and John just want to make sure everything is going alright.” He hands me some papers to look over and I just throw them on my desk.

“Are you even going to look at them?” He asks me.

“Not right now. I will later.”

“You need to talk to someone man. You can’t go on like this, your bound to have a nervous breakdown any day now.” I get up and throw some darts needing to vent my frustration on something.

“I know Michael. Trust me I know. Maybe this trip will help.” I throw a dart and it hit’s the wall.

“Help with what? Help you escape for a few days. That’s not what you need trust me.”

“Whatever.” I throw the rest and manage to get most of them on the board.

“Getting an attitude with me isn’t going to help you know.” I take the darts off the board and wall and position myself to throw them again.

“Since you seem to know everything why don’t you enlighten me on what I should do o’ wise one.”

“I don’t know everything but I do know that not doing anything isn’t helping. You’re a grown man do what you want.” I don’t even look at him as he walks out of my office. Whatever. I’d rather watch my life slowly turn to shit. That’s seems to be the easiest way out. I can get over this can’t I?

~*~*~

After work I drive around town and by the beach before coming home. The later I get home the less time I have to live this lie. Hopefully Liz is in bed or about to go to bed by the time I get there.

I walk in and find her asleep in the sofa curled up with a blanket. Quietly turning off the television I lift her into my arms and carry her to the bed. She stirs a little when I lift her up but I place a kiss on her forehead and she snuggles up to my chest. Gently I place her under the covers and smooth her hair back.

“Max?” She asks with her eyes still closed.

“Go back to sleep sweetie.”

“What time is it?” She turns over and looks for the alarm clock.

“It’s late angel. I’m going to change, I’ll be right back.” She lays down and I quickly change out of my work clothes. I no longer bother to eat, I’ve gotten used to not doing it.

The second I’m in the bed she scoots over to me and lays her head on my chest. It’s little things like this that I love about being with her. The way she gently places her head on my chest and rubs small circles around my belly button until she falls asleep. The way she breathes a sigh of content as soon as she lays on my chest. These are the little things that I love about her. The things that I will miss the most.

______________________________________________

The next day Liz asks me to come with her to my fathers office. I know that she’s trying to get me to have a better relationship with my father since she wouldn’t take any of my excuses when I tried to get out of it.

“Thank you for coming with me.” She says on the drive over there.

“No problem.” I smile and hold her hand over the gear shift.

“All your excuses were pretty funny though.”

“Well I’m glad I could entertain you.” I laugh and pull into the parking lot of my fathers law firm.

“Wow this place is nice.” It’s a four story brick building that overlooks the ocean. I take her hand in mine and we walk inside and take the elevator up to the top floor.

“Max, is that you?” My fathers secretary Elise greets me. She’s been working for him for as long as I can remember.

“Elise, how are you?” I give her a kiss on the cheek and she pulls me in for a tight hug.

“I’m good. Look at you all grown up.” She pinches my cheek and I blush a little. I hear Liz giggle next to me.

“Who is this beautiful young lady?” She asks looking at Liz.

“I’m sorry. This is Liz, my wife.” Elise’s eyes go wide and she pulls Liz in for a hug as well.

“You did good Max. She’s lovely.” Liz blushes and says thank you.

“Is my father available?”

“Of course honey go right in.” I nod and walk into my father’s office with Liz by my side. We walk in and he motions for us to sit across from him. He’s on the phone so I look around nervously while we wait.

“Sorry about that.” He hangs up and pulls out some paperwork.

“It’s fine. Thank you for doing this for me Mr. Evans. I really appreciate you taking this on and handling it so quickly.” I look back and forth between Liz and my father hoping that he doesn’t act like his usual self.

“You don’t have to thank me. Your family after all.” I literally choke on my spit and nearly cough up a lung when he says that. Liz looks over at me to make sure I’m ok and I wave her off. I look at my father strangely wondering what is really going on.

“Don’t look at me like that. She’s your wife Max which means she’s my daughter in law now.” Did he just call me Max? Ok it’s suddenly very hot in here, I’m having trouble breathing.

“What’s really going on here?”

“Max.” Liz hisses.

“It’s ok, I can understand Max’s resistance it’s going to take some time but he will come around and see that I am a changed man.” I don’t even know what to say.

“I’m happy for you two.” Liz says sensing my reluctance to say anything.

“Well getting to the matter at hand. I have everything in order here, I just need to you look it over an sign in front of me so we don’t have any problems.” He hands Liz a small package of papers and she starts to scan them over.

“Max, would you?” She hands me the papers and asks me to look them over. I guess since I have more real estate experience then she does.

“While Max is looking at that I’d like you to take a look at these photographs.” My father calling me Max is still strange for me. “This is the man that was hired to follow you around. I want to know if you remember seeing him before.” I continue scanning over the paperwork and everything look fine.

“Oh my God. Max!” Startled I drop the papers and look towards her.

“What is it?” Her hands are over her mouth and her eyes are wide.

“Do you know him?” My father asks.

“Liz, angel why don’t you go talk with Elise for a minute ok?” I don’t want her to have to hear about this again or look at the pictures again. She nods her head and I walk her out.

“Everything is fine baby. Give me a minute.” I place a kiss on her temple and walk back into my father office.

“What’s going on?” He asks.

“Liz has seen that man before. It was a while ago though.” I tell him the story of when I had to go to her studio cause of that bastard. The possibility of Tess having set all that up makes me sick.

“Do you think she had something to do with that as well?”

“Of course she did!” I bang my hand on the desk frustrated.

“Ok relax, let me handle this. Go and take care of your wife.” I take a deep breath trying to calm down before I walk out to Liz. She signs the papers and we get ready to leave.

“Don’t be a stranger honey.” Elise says.

“We won’t.” She hugs Liz and I and we walk to the car.

“Are you ok?” I ask as soon as we get outside.

“Yeah. I just got freaked out for a minute but I’m fine now.” I open the door for her and wait for her to get in before walking around the car.

“My father is going to take care of it. Don’t worry about anything.” I sit facing her trying to read her face.

“Thank you.” She stares ahead and I can tell that it’s bothering her more then she’s letting on.

“Liz you don’t have to be scared. Nothing is going to happen to you, I promise you that.”

“I know Max. Its not that it’s just I can’t believe that she would do all of this. I’ve never done anything to her and she just hates me so much. I just want her out of my life.” I lean over and place a kiss on her cheek.

“She will be angel, I promise.”
__________________________________________

I wake up on a Saturday morning and find Liz in the closet.

“Morning.” She says and I see her packing.

“Going somewhere?” I ask walking into the closet.

“Yeah, well soon anyway. Remember Vegas?”

“Oh that’s right. When are you going again?” I ask forgetting for a moment that she told me about this.

“Thursday. I just wanted to go through everything I had so I can get whatever I need. I didn’t mean to wake you.”

“You didn’t. I actually have to go to Vegas as well but I‘m not leaving until Tuesday.” I watch her take a sort of inventory of her shoes.

“Well then we will just have to spend every moment of this weekend together then won’t we?” She walks over to me and wraps her arms around my waist.

“No arguments here.” Her stomach grumbles and I go fix her something to eat. I can just tell her that I ate while I was cooking.

“So what are we going to do? Well have a whole two days in a row together?” She’s finished eating and we are sitting outside.

“Whatever you want angel.” I open up my arms and she sits on my lap.

“Let’s just get in the car and drive.”

“Drive to where?” I bury my face in her hair. I love her smell.

“Anywhere, nowhere. Doesn’t matter lets just go and see where we end up.”

“Your crazy.” She leans over and kisses me softly. She pulls away but I bring her back deepening the kiss.

“Let’s go then.” We get up and change ready to go on our adventure.

We’ve been driving for about an hour and still have no clue where we are going.

“This is nice.” She says. The wind is ripping through her hair and I wish I had a camera. She’s perfect.

“It is.” soft tones come from the radio and I turn it up a little. We’re driving up the coast and the day is beyond perfect.

“I don’t want to be away from you this week.” I confess.

“Me either but I don’t want to dump Erika all of the sudden. We’ve always taken a trip and I’d feel bad canceling on her.”

“I know angel. I’m glad that you are going. I don’t want to be away from you but I know how much it means to you.” She turns to face me and runs her hands through my hair.

“Do you think things will always be like this?” She asks.

“I hope so. Nothing is ever perfect but I will try my best to make you happy.”

“You already make me happy. I know that you care for me and that you wouldn’t hurt me.” That hit me like a ton of bricks. I can’t say anything and just smile at her.

~*~*~

It’s Sunday night and Liz is going through my closet making sure I have what I need to Vegas.

“How long are you going to be there?” She asks pulling my suitcases out.

“I’m not sure. I guess it depends on if things are going smoothly or not. If they aren’t then it will be a week at least I suppose.”

“I’m sure everything is going well. John would have called you if it wasn’t”

“Where are you staying?” I ask not knowing any details of her trip.

“I got a room just off the strip. She’s on a budget.”

“You have to stay on the strip baby. Let me book something for you.” She comes out of my closet with a few shirts in hand but I stop her.

“I can do that later.” I say putting the shoes down.

“I can’t let you do that Max. Thank you for the offer, we’ll be fine. We can take a cab or something it’s no big deal.” God I love this woman. More then I ever thought was possible.

“I want to. Please, let me. I want you to have the best time.” I pull her down to sit on my lap and kiss her temple.

“Max it’s too much. Really it’s not a big deal.” She sighs and rests her head on my shoulder.

“Angel I want to. Please just let me ok?”

“Fine, but it isn’t necessary.” I get up and help her zip my suitcase up.

“I know it’s not but I want to. Let me make the reservations for you.” After a quick peck I walk to my office to book her a suite. I want her to be able to really enjoy herself and book her a suite at the New York New York hotel. I’ve heard good things about it.

~*~Later that night~*~

“Did you have a good time this weekend?” She’s going through her nighttime routine and as always I’m mesmerized.

“It was perfect.” We ended up driving to some town that I don’t even remember the name of and staying at a small inn near the beach. We spent the rest of the day and night enjoying each others company and making love. If I would have died right then I would have been a happy man.

“I’m glad.” She slips under the covers and her smell is intoxicating. I might steal her lotion in the morning and take it with me so I can sleep at night.

“Are you feeling better?” I know that has a double meaning.

“Yeah a little.” It’s not a total lie at least. She snuggles up to my chest and I drift off to sleep.

I wake up from a rather steamy dream involving Liz with a rock hard erection. I glance at the alarm clock and see that it’s almost three in the morning. I lay in bed and debate on waking her up or not. I want to wake her up but she might think I’m being a pig but god do I need her right now.

Not wanting to wake her up I pad to the bathroom to take care of myself. There is no way a cold shower is going to get rid of this.

I turn on the shower to block some of the noise I might make. I can’t believe I’m doing this. I shake my head and laugh at myself. Feeling self conscious I turn off the lights, maybe it will help.

I pull my boxers down and sit on the edge of the tub trying to make myself comfortable.

“Jesus what am I doing?” I say and slowly begin to stroke myself. I shut my eyes and try to picture Liz and how she looks when we are making love. My hand glides up and down my shaft and I throw my head back feeling myself get closer to the edge.

“Max?” I hear Liz whisper from the other side of the bathroom.

“Y-yeah.” Shit!

“Why are you taking a shower in the dark?” She flips on the lights and I’m busted. She looks at me with wide eyes and I can feel myself turning all shades of red right now.

“Umm what are you doing?” She walks over to me.

“I uhhh…needed to…..I had a dream and I didn’t want to wake you.” I say as fast as I can. I hear her giggle and kneel in front of me.

“You can wake me anytime. I want you to wake me.” She places her hand on my still hard member and stokes me a few times.

“How about we go back to bed and take care of this?” I nod and shut off the water before walking back to the bed.

“I feel stupid.” I’m nestled between her legs stroking her face lightly.

“Why? Don’t feel stupid, it happens. Just wake me up next time. I love making love with you.” I capture her lips in a searing kiss and slide a finger between her folds. I make sure she’s ready for me before slowly sliding into her.

“Fuck Liz I can’t get enough of you.” I push harder until I’m all the way in.

“Me either Max.” She wraps her legs around me pulling me closer to her.

“God Liz I want you all the time.” I hit her special spot and hear her loud moans.

“Shit me too.” I love when she curses while we make love. “Fuck me Max. Fuck me hard and fast like only you can do.” She runs her fingers through my hair and I hook one of her legs under my arm before picking up my pace. I slam into her hard but not too hard over and over. She chants my name over and over and I know she’s close to finding her release.

“You like that?” I ask as she trashes her head from side to side.

“Oh God Yes! More Fuck me harder Max.” I slam into her harder and harder until I see her shut her eyes tightly. I know that it was a little too much and hold back.

“Fuck I’m almost there.” My body is covered in sweat and I see some forming on her brow as well.

“Ahhhh Maxxxx Shit!” Her walls clams down on my and I let go.

“Fuckkk Uhhh Lizzzz.” I pump my seed into her and kiss her face tenderly before laying next to her.

“Your exhausting but I love you.” I say trying to catch my breath.

“Me too.” She kisses my forehead and lays on my chest. I lay awake wondering if that will be the last time I make love to her.

______________________________________________

I wake up the next morning alone. It’s early and Liz didn’t mention having to go to the studio so I wonder where she is.

“Liz?” I walk out to the living room and call for her. She doesn’t answer so I go out back to look for her.

“Hey. What are you doing out here?” I find her sitting in a lounge chair watching the sunrise.

“Just thinking.” She smiles at me and I pull up a chair next to her.

“Thinking about anything in particular?” I ask after a few moments of silence.

“Not really.” She takes a sip of her tea but doesn’t take her eyes off the view. It’s now or never, I have to tell her. The guilt is killing me.

“Angel, I have to tell you something.” I turn to face her.

“I know.” She says still not looking at me.

“You do?”

“I know that something is going on and I was hoping you would tell me eventually.” Maybe she knows that it’s bad and that’s why she won’t look at me.

“I um got some information the other day. I don’t know if it’s true or not but, I wanted to tell you about it. Just so…you know.” God this is harder then I thought it would be.

“Ok.” She sips her tea every once in a while and I notice that her movements are robotic. She’s staring straight ahead.

“I got a letter delivered to me at work and, God Liz this is so hard.”

“Just say it Max. Please.” I swallow thickly and prepare to tell her the worst news of her life.

“It was the results of a pregnancy test…for Bianca.” She doesn’t move, she doesn’t even blink. Now I’m scared.

“Oh.” Is all she says, still not looking at me.

“I-I don’t know if it’s true or not. She um gave me a date of when it supposedly happened and I’m going to be honest with you, it might be true but Liz, I want you to know that I tried to be careful. I don’t want this, not with her, but it could be true.” My voice cracks and it’s killing me that she hasn’t said anything.

“Angel, say something please.” I get no response from her and it’s driving me mad.

“I’m going to find out for sure Liz, I’m not just going to let this ride out. I need to know, for me and for us.”

“I get that this could be a possibility, I mean I know about your habits when we first got married but what upsets me is that you didn’t tell me right away Max. We talked about this, about telling each other everything no matter what, and you keep something like this from me. This is huge Max and you didn’t tell me. Why?” Her voice is monotone, it’s freaky. She isn’t showing any emotions.

“I was scared, plain and simple. I wanted it to go away to be honest with you and I realized that it wasn’t going to and that I had to tell you because of our agreement. I should have told you right away, I know that, but I didn’t and I’m sorry for that. I didn’t want to hurt you, not with-” She turns quickly towards me prompting me to not finish that sentence.

“So what now Max? It’s obvious that we have trust issues. Hell, we don’t even really know each other Max, that’s more then clear. We can’t tell each other little problems and we can’t tell each other big problems either. This isn’t a relationship, I don’t know what this is but it’s not good.”

“Don’t say that angel. I love you, God do I love you.”

“Max be honest. If you could get away with it you would have never told me would you? If this was something you could make go away easily I would never have found out about it. That’s what hurts Max. You can’t keep things from me not matter how big or small. You once told me that and your not doing it yourself. You don’t have faith in our love Max.” Her voice is still monotone and she hasn’t looked at me yet.

“I do have faith Liz. I don’t know what else to say, but I do love you. Maybe your right, maybe I wouldn’t have told you if I could get away with it but I don’t know for sure. I realize that I have to tell you things not matter what. I would want the same from you. For whatever it’s worth, I won’t do it again. I won’t keep anything from you, regardless of how much I think it will hurt you.”

“So what are you going to? If-if it’s t-true?” She turns around facing me dead on and now I wish she wasn’t looking at me.

“I don’t know. I haven’t really thought about it honestly. I guess first I’d find out if she really is carrying my child then I’d make sure said child is taken care of.”

“Would you w-want to be in the c-child life?” A small sob escapes her throat and it tears me up inside. I did this to her and I’m scum for it.

“I don’t know. I’d like to say no but I can’t honestly know how I’ll feel after the fact but we are getting ahead of ourselves here. We don’t even know if it’s true or not.”

“Why would she lie Max?” I laugh at loud at that. Is she nuts?

“Why? Most likely to get back at me for cutting her off.”

“I thought she was aware of your intentions. Before, I mean.”

“She was. I made it more then clear that we didn’t have a relationship but I guess she didn’t get the memo.”

“Were you happy about it? Honestly, were you a little bit happy about maybe becoming a father? I mean, you know- after…”

“No! Absolutely not. I haven’t had one second of happiness since I found out about this. I swear it Liz. As much as I’d like to be a father one day Bianca is not the person I want to share that with.”

“We need some time Max…” I try to interrupt her but she puts her hand up.

“We need time alone, together. I just feel like something is missing and that’s why we can’t talk to each other about these things. I want to be with you, forever, but not like this. Not when you can’t come to me with things like this.”

“I agree. I just need to know if you are ok, with everything I mean. I know how hard-”

“It is hard and I’m not going to lie to you and tell you that I’m ok with it because I’m not. I’m so not ok right now but it’s not your fault. I knew you were with her in that way, hell I even heard it first hand but yes, it does hurt like hell that you may have a child with someone else. Your first child. I wanted to give that to you.” She looks down and I see a few tears slip down her face but I’m frozen. Everything she’s saying is true and I have absolutely nothing to say to comfort her.

“This wouldn’t be my first child.” I whisper. How could she forget about the baby she lost? Even though it wasn’t born and most likely not developed yet but it was there, it existed at one point.

She looks up at me but says nothing. I don’t want to upset her more so I go back inside and get ready for work. I have no idea what the next step is.

[Icequeen]

WOW I know I say this every time but I’m always just as surprised that so many of you are enjoying this and taking the time out to leave me such awesome comments. Someone is on to something about Bianca but I’m evil so I won’t say who. I will say that you won’t find out in this chapter though. On another note I wanted to thank those of you who nominated this story and Kris over at Memories. Kris is so much fun for me to write so thank you!

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~~Chapter 37~~

~*~Max’s office~*~

“So you told her?” Michael asks me.

“Yeah.” I’m looking over the paperwork that he gave me the other day.

“And?” He says snatching the papers out of my hand.

“You know I never would have pegged you for a gossip queen.”

“Whatever. You owe it to me after all your moodiness the past few days.”

“I don’t know what to think. I mean, she didn’t freak out or threaten to leave me but she took it too well you know?” I lean back in my chair.

“Yeah Maria does that, scares the shit out of me sometimes. Just when I think she’ll flip out about something she takes it well. Women, I’ll never understand them.” He laughs and shakes his head.

“Listen, I need to take some time off. Liz and I need to spend some time together without any distractions. I don’t want to dump everything on you so I’ll make sure everything with John is ok before I go but it has to be soon.”

“I understand. Don’t worry I think I can manage without you for a few days.”

“It’s going to be longer then that Michael, I’m going to take a few weeks. Three at least. Liz and I never had the chance to get to know each other and I want to do that now. I love her but she’s right we don’t know that much about each other.” I hope he understands.

“It’s cool. I understand completely. Just keep me posted ok?” I nod and review the paperwork that I’ll need for the trip. I glance over at my calendar and notice a date written in the margin. That is the week is supposedly happened. I decide to not put it off anymore and take a look back to see if I was even in town that week. I don’t see anything suggesting that I wasn’t so I can’t rule it out completely. Fuck! I was hoping that I would have been out of town so I can call bullshit and be done with it. No such luck.

~*~Liz~*~

I sit out back for a few hours after Max leaves and decide to call Kris. I need to talk to someone.

“Lo.” She answers

“Hi.” I say softly.

“You better have some Earth shattering news calling me at this un Godly hour.”

“I do so get dressed and come over here ASAP.”

“Ugh fine! See you in a few.” She hangs up and I decide to get dressed myself.

“So what’s the big news?” She asks looking like she stepped out of a freaking magazine meanwhile I look like hell. How she does it I don’t know.

“Well long story short Max may or may not be having a kid with someone.” I expect her to freak out but get nothing. It’s odd, she doesn’t say anything at all.

“Um aren’t you going to say something?” I ask her after a few moments of silence.

“I sort of knew already.”

“WHAT! What do you mean you know?” She scoots over on the sofa after my outburst.

“First of all calm down. Remember that day I used Max’s computer? Well I saw an envelope and I opened it.”

“Why would you do that?”

“Because I’m nosey. You know that. Anyway, I went to his office and confronted him about it. He told me he was going to tell you soon so I didn’t say anything. Don’t be mad at me Liz, I figured it would be better coming from him so I was going to give him a few days to tell you himself.” I can’t believe that my best friend knew something like this and didn’t say anything to me. Friend, yeah right!

“I can’t believe you didn’t tell me. This is big Kris, huge even and you just sat on it and didn’t say anything?”

“I’m sorry ok. I knew that if I told you, you would have flipped out on him for not telling you right away. I wanted to give him time. He was supposed to get some information to see if it was true before telling you. Anyway, none of that matters. I know your pissed and all I can say is that I’m sorry but I had your best interest at heart.” I roll my eyes at that statement.

“You know I’m wondering when I became this helpless person that needs to be protected from all bad things? Max didn’t want to tell me because he didn’t want to upset me and now I get the same crap from you too? Contrary to popular belief I can handle things. I’m not made of glass and I’m not this emotionally unstable person that’s two seconds from having a breakdown.”

“You know what, go to hell! I wish that I had people around me that cared enough about me to want to protect me like you do. God, what is your deal? Do we need to have this conversation over and over until you get it? Max loves you, I love you, we care about you. Nothing more nothing less. It’s not some conspiracy to keep you in the dark. We don’t want to see you hurt that’s all. Jesus Liz, he was trying to find out if it was even true before he told you and caused you all that pain but you can’t see that.”

“It’s not for you and him or anyone else to decide. You should tell me things even if it’s going to upset me.” I hold back my tears. I hate fighting with her.

“You know, maybe you are right but shit happens when people care about you I guess. It’s a great thing to have people around you that love you so much all they want to do is protect you. It could be worse Liz, you could have no one.” Her last statement makes me think. She has a point but I still want to know these things.

“Look I’m sorry, I know where you are coming from but you have to see my side too. If I kept something from you you’d be mad too. Shit you get pissed when I buy a new pair of shoes without telling you.” We both laugh.

“Your right. I’m sorry too. Now I know you may not want to talk about this but what now? Have you guys talked about what to do next?”

“Not really. I didn’t really say much to him. I just don’t know what to think. If it’s true I don’t think I can handle it you know? And I feel so badly about feeling that way but to have him be forever tied to her kills me.”

“I can understand that but you can’t close off Liz. You guys have to talk especially now.” She says putting her arm around me.

“I know we do. I’m going to go to Vegas with Erika since Max has a trip as well and we’ll talk when we both get back.”

“Good, no running away ok. And no quickie Vegas marriages.”

“You’re a dork.” I throw a pillow at her and laugh. It feels good to not stress anymore. Let’s see how long it lasts.

Kris and I hang out for a while doing the typical girl stuff like gossiping then she goes home. I glance at the clock and see that Max should be home soon. I think back to my trip with Erika and as much as I don’t want to run away from all of this I don’t want to cancel on her so I decide to go. It might be best to get away from him while he sorts out what he needs to anyway. Besides, he’s going away soon anyway.

A few moments later I hear his car pull into the driveway and wait for him to come in.

“Hey.” He says setting his briefcase on the floor.

“Hi.” I’m sitting on the sofa and he joins me.

“I talked to Michael today and I told him that I was taking some time off. I want to spend some time with you, some real time.”

“When?” I ask.

“After I clear everything up with John’s project. I don’t want to throw that onto Michael. Hopefully it will be worked out by the time I get back from my trip. The project is pretty much finished anyway.”

“That sounds like a good idea.” He puts his arm around me and I snuggle into his chest. His scent has become home to me.

“How are you doing?” He asks after a few moments of silence.

“I’m ok. I’m not going to say that I’m fine but I’m dealing.”

“I can understand that. I just want you to know that I haven’t put it out of my mind. I’m going to call her and talk face to face. I think that’s the best way to deal with all of this.” I can’t say anything. I don’t want him talking to her but if that’s what he feels he needs to do then I can’t stop him.

“I uh think that’s a good idea.” I lie.

“We will get through this, I promise, but you can’t close up on me ok?” He places a kiss on my temple.

“I know I can’t but it’s hard. The thought of you sharing that with someone else, having a permanent tie with her….it kills me Max.”

“Angel, I know and I’m sorry. I’m so sorry for putting you through this but you have to have faith in me. In us Liz. I love you with all my heart and I mean that. I didn’t want to tell you for this reason exactly. I didn’t want you to be upset about something that may not even be true.”

“That’s the thing Max. You have to tell me these things not matter what. I can’t take it. I’m not going to promise not to be upset or angry but we need to be able to talk about anything.”

“I know.” He says softly pulling me closer to him. We sit for what seems like hours in silence then decide to go out to eat.

~*~*Max~*~

We get home from dinner and Liz is helping me pack.

“I’m going to pack for a week just in case.” she calls from the closet.

“Ok.” I laugh and take some socks and boxers out of the drawer.

“You know you never told me how it was that you knew where all my clothes were before.” I laugh at the memory of her finding my shirts when I would look for them.
“I um used to come in here when you were at work. I liked your smell.” She says blushing.

“I like yours too.” I walk over to her and pull her into my arms.

“Max, Let’s get this done first ok?” She says after I place a few kisses on her neck.

“Fine, party pooper.” She goes back into the closet and pull some suits out for me.

“Ok now your packing as if I’m moving out there. I have plenty of clothes baby.” I zip the suitcase up and place it near the foot of the bed.

“I’m going to jump in the shower.” She says winking at me. I’ll never get tired of her or of making love to her. I wait for her to turn the shower on and give her time to get in before I join her.

When I walk into the bathroom the scent of the soap hits me. The mirrors above the sink are fogged up already but I can see her clearly through the glass door. I sit on the counter and just watch her with her back towards me running her hands through her hair. I wish I was an artist so I could draw the perfection that I see before me. A photograph wouldn’t do her justice she needs a master to really capture her beauty.

She’s totally oblivious to me watching her and I love that. I see her reach for the soap and lather herself up I jump off the counter ready to join her when I see her hunch over and grow concerned. I step a little closer quietly so she doesn’t know I’m here yet. That’s when I notice that she’s crying. Her shoulders shake and I hear a soft sob.

“Liz?” I say opening the shower door. She stand up and throws herself at me wrapping her arms tightly around my neck.

“Shhh it’s ok baby.”

“Max it’s so hard.” She says between gasps for breath. She’s full our crying now and I pull her closer towards me placing kisses on her forehead.

“I know it is angel but we will get through it, I promise.” I hold her while she cries it out thankful that I have a huge hot water heater so we don’t freeze in here. I walk us to the bench in the shower and lean her head on my chest.

“Sweetheart let’s get out of here. Your starting to get cold.” I say when I see the goose bumps on her arms. She nods her head and I walk us out of the shower wrapping her in a towel before placing her on the bed. Stripping my boxers off and getting a new pair on I slide into bed behind her and wrap my arms around her pulling her tight against me.

“I’m sorry Max. I’m trying to be strong about this but it’s so hard.”

“Don’t be sorry, it’s ok.”

“It’s not but it will be.” She says tracing a circle on my chest.

“It will.” She look up and me and places a soft kiss on my lips. I pull back but she deepens the kiss and soon a fire is building up inside me. I feel myself getting hard and feel her rub her hips against me.

“Max I want you. Make love to me please. I need to feel you.” She pleads wiping her tears away. I push her softly onto her back and lay between her legs. Instantly she opens herself up to me and I pull my boxers off while she unwraps the towel from around her body.

“Liz, your it for me. You’re the only one that could make me feel this way.” I kiss a trail up her legs and cup her breasts slowly teasing her nipple with my tongue.

“I love you.” She says licking her lips. I lick and suck on her nipples until they are rock hard. Sliding my finger into her fold I feel her ready for me. I tease her nub before positioning myself at her entrance.

“And I love you. So much Liz.” I say and slide into her until I can’t go any further. Her wall surround me with a warmness. I don’t make any movements just wanting to take everything in. She moves her hips letting me know she wants more and we start a rhythm, a dance that we are both familiar with.

I fall asleep hours later after watching Liz sleep for a while. I have a feeling that everything is going to be ok.

~*~Max~*~

“I love you. I’ll call you when I get in.” Liz got up with me and drove me to the airport. I told her it was too early and that she didn’t have to but she insisted on it.

“Love you too. I’ll see you soon.” I hug her tightly and board my plane. Hopefully I won’t have to stay away for more then a few days.

~*~Liz~*~

I have the strangest feeling that he thinks he won’t see me again or something. He hugged me so tightly as if it was a final goodbye and told me he loved me over and over all morning. I’m not complaining but we made love this morning and it was gentle and long lasting. Almost as if he was trying to memorize everything. I drive back to the house and feel lonely already. I’m not leaving for another three days and I don’t want to be alone.

~*~Vegas~*~

I land in Vegas and rent a car before driving to my hotel suite. I got some sleep in the plane ride but now I feel more tired then before. As soon as I check in I call the house to let Liz know that I’m here.

There isn’t an answer so I leave a message. She’s probably spending the day with Kris or something. I have a meeting set up with John in a few hours but desperately need sleep.

“I need a wake up call please.” I call the front desk and have them call me in 3 hours. I lay on top of the sheets not even bothering to take my shoes off.

I get the call exactly on time and get out of bed with a groan. I feel like I’m going to need a full days sleep to fully be rested. I need to take a shower to fully wake up. I check my cell phone quickly to see if I have any missed calls. Liz hasn’t called me back but I try not to worry about it. She must be out.

~*~Liz~*~

“So I’m the replacement for the day?” Kris asks as she walks in the door.

“No. I just wanted to hang out with you before I left to Vegas.” We grab some drinks and head out to the backyard.

“So everything is ok then?” She asks popping a grape into her mouth.

“As ok as can be expected I guess. I’m just taking it one day at a time. There isn’t anything I can do.”

“I like that attitude.”

“So since your so involved in my love life what’s up with yours?” We haven’t talked about her in ages.

“Nothing to say. I haven’t met anyone that interests me for more then a day or so. I don’t know, I guess I don’t know what I’m looking for. I’m just hoping he will appear out of nowhere one day.” I laugh.

“It will happen for you, I know it. You will find your mister perfect.”

“Who knows. I do know that he’s not in the places I’ve been looking. Maybe I should take a trip put to Vegas. It seemed to work for you.” I throw a grape at her.

“Shut up. You’ll find him or better yet he will find out and it will be perfect.”

“Whatever. This conversation is getting way to cheesy for me, change topics. What’s going on with the house? Everything is done right?”

“Yeah the paperwork is all signed. The house is officially mine. It’s funny, now that I have it I haven’t even been there. I haven’t thought about it much really.” I shrug.

“What are you going to do with it? Do you want to live there?” She asks making me really think about it.

“I don’t know. Max wouldn’t want to live there, he loves the beach too much. Maybe I can turn it into a second home for us or something.”

“That sounds like a good idea. You should take Max there, I’m sure he’d like to see it.”

“Yeah, I will when we both get back from Vegas.” The rest of the afternoon goes by quickly and Kris decides to stay over. We rent a bunch of movies and camp out on the sofa like two high school girls.

“Shit I haven’t called Max yet. Where the hell is my phone?” I search for my cell phone and can’t find it.

“Why didn’t he call the house?” she asks making me wonder the same thing. I check the phone to see if anything is wrong with it.

“Damn it, the ringer was of. One of us must have accidentally hit the switch.” I pick up the phone and see that I have a few missed calls from Max’s cell.

“Shit, he’s been calling. I’m going to call him back hopefully he picks up.” I dial his cell and hope that he answers.

“Hello.” I hear some noise in the background and try to hell into the phone.

“Hey!”

“Sweetheart let me call you back in a few, I’m at the site right now.” He screams into the phone.

“Ok.” I hang up and search for my cell phone.

“A thousand bucks says you left it in the car like always.” Kris says making me frown, I think I did.

“I told you!” She says when I come back in the house with my phone in hand.

“Whatever.” I see that Max has called me there too and wait for him call back.

“Hey I’m going to run to the store and get some snack. You guys seem to be running low. You want to come?”

“No I’m going to wait for Max’s call. Get me some Onion and Garlic chips!”

“Your disgusting!” She rolls her eyes and grabs her keys.

A few moments later the phone rings.

“Hey. The ringer on the phone was turned off. Sorry I missed your call.”

“It’s ok I figured you were out with Kris or something.” He says sounding tired.

“She was here but went out to get snacks. How is everything going?”

“Good. Everything is running smoothly. I should be back in a few days unless something crazy happens.” He laughs.

“Thanks good.” Suddenly it’s like I can’t talk to him. I don’t know what else to say.

“So um when I get back I’m going to settle this.” He says clearing his throat.

“Ok.” What else can I say?

“Ok. Well I’m going to grab something to eat. I’ll call you later.”

“Ok. Bye.

“Liz?” He asks before I hang up.

“Yeah?”

“I love you.”

“Me too.” We say goodnight and I hang up with mixed feelings. I’m glad that he’s going to take care of this, whatever that means, but a part of me wants to be here with him when he does. Maybe I’m crazy.

“Hey, who was just here?” Kris asks with bags in her hand.

“No one. Why?” I ask puzzled.

“I saw a car, it looked like it pulled out of your driveway.”

“I didn’t hear anything. Maybe they were lost and turning around.” I shrug.

“Maybe.”

[Icequeen]

Thanks guys for the FB and the congrats on the nominations I received. As of now there are 2 parts left after this one but….I’m crazy so that might change but two more parts for now.

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~~Chapter 38~~

*~*~Liz~*~*

“Damn girl that bed is comfortable as hell.” I wake up early the next morning and prepare breakfast for Kris and I.

“I know.” I laugh. She stayed in my old room.

“What time are you leaving?” She asks drowning her pancakes in syrup.

“The flight leaves at four.” I sit next to her and dig into my food.

“Well I hope you have a miserable time without me.” I throw my napkin at her.

“Thanks.”

“So not to bring up negative vibes or anything but don’t you think it was a little strange that I saw a car here last night? I mean this isn’t a buy street and the only cars that ever come up here either live here or are visiting someone. People don’t really get lost around here.”

“You know, your breakfast conversation skill are seriously distorted. I’m sure it was just someone that was lost Kris. Stop watching all those crime dramas on TV, your becoming paranoid.”

“Fine, mock me if you like but trust me those shows are highly informative.” I shake my head at her and finish eating.

“Thanks for the food.” She helps me clear the dishes and gets her things to go home.

“I would stay and help you finish getting ready but I’m a hater so I’m not.”

“Your crazy. I’ll call you later.” I walk her out and double check everything for my trip.


~*~Max in Vegas~*~

“So Max, where is that beautiful wife of yours?” I’m at the job site again with John.

“She couldn’t make it this time.” We walk all the along the outside of the building while I take down notes.

“That’s too bad. She’s very charming.”

“Yes she is.” I put on my hard hat and walk inside with John behind me.

“Everything seems to be going well. Looks good.” I say as we continue to walk.

“It is. I really admire your work ethic Max. Not many people are as dedicated as you are.”

“Thank you. I guess I’m a perfectionist. My name goes on everything I do and I want to be proud of everything that I built.” He slaps me on the back and smiles.

“I agree.” I finish my walk through and go back to the hotel. I don’t feel much like going to the casino so I order room service and make myself comfortable. I should be back home tomorrow evening but will miss Liz as her flight leaves in the afternoon.

My food arrives and after I eat I decide to get something over with. I pick up my cell phone and search for Bianca’s number. It’s now or never.

“Hello.” She answers on the third ring. I almost chickened out.

“It’s Max.” I hear loud music in the background and she tells me to hold in a second.

“What’s up?” She asks like we’re friends.

“We need to sit down soon and talk about this.”

“I…umm…..what exactly do you want to talk about?” She asks nervously.

“I want to see how you are doing. What the fuck do you think I want to talk about?” Was she always this stupid?

“Alright. Fine.” I tell her that I’ll meet her for lunch the day after I get back.

~*~Max’s house~*~

With one last look I leave and head to the airport. Erika is taking a later flight so we’ll meet up at the hotel. I received an e-mail from the travel agent with the details of what Max planned for us.

The flight seemed longer this time. The last time we went to Vegas was on a private plane and my thoughts drift to Max as I stare out the window.

When I get to Vegas a sense of déjà vu floods over me. I will always associate this town with Max. I take a cab to the hotel and check in. Erika should be here in an hour so I sit and wait for her. Max booked us a two bedroom suite at New York New York and the view is breathtaking. I’m glad he didn’t book us at the Palms, that will always be our place.

I left Erika’s name at the front desk and left a message on her cell so when she gets off the plane she will know where to go. I hear the doorbell ring and think that it’s Erika.

“Mrs. Evans?” The bellboy asks.

“Yes. That’s me.” He smiles and signals for someone else to come in. Two bellboys come in each holding a beautiful arrangement of roses and lilies. I thank them and read the note.

I’m sorry I can’t be there with you. Have a good time.

I love you,

Max.

The flowers are gorgeous and I take the time to smell them before putting them near the window. The doorbell rings again and this time I’m sure it’s Erika.

“Hey!” I pull her into a tight hug and help her bring her bags inside.

“Wow!” She says looking around the suite.

“It’s nice huh?”

“Hell yeah! You win the lotto or something?” She sits on the sofa and I join her.

“No. My umm husband booked it for us.” I feel strange telling her that.

“Ohh do tell.” We sit and talk about Max. I leave out the last bit about him possibly having a baby with someone else and just tell her the good things.

“I’m really happy for you Liz.” Sensing that this might get serious I suggest that we get something to eat.

~*~Max~*~

I don’t like coming home to an empty house. I knew that Liz was going to be in Vegas but I still expected to see her when I walked in the house. I walk to the bedroom and throw my clothes in the hamper.

I’m dead tired. Too tired to change I drop on the bed and quickly fall asleep.

When I wake up I feel disorientated. It’s one A.M. and I can’t believe I slept this long. Needing to change my clothes I walk to the closet and grab something before jumping in the shower. When I get to the bathroom I stare at the shower and thoughts of Liz flood back to me. How many times did we make love in that shower? I can’t even count. I shower quickly needing to get out of there and throw some clothes on. Food. Need food. I haven’t eaten since this morning.

I throw something in the oven and notice that I have a message on the answering machine. I must have really been out if I didn’t hear the phone ring. I hope I didn’t miss Liz’s call.

Hey just wanted to see if you got in ok. The room is beautiful, thank you.

Fuck! I can’t believe I missed her call. It’s late but I decide to call her back. I grab the phone and dial her cell phone.

“Hello?” She’s screaming into the phone and I can hear loud music in the background.

“Hey.” I don’t even know if she can hear me.

“Hold on a second I can’t hear you. Hold on.” The music slowly gets softer and softer as I guess she’s walking outside.

“Max?” She asks.

“Yeah. Hey, sorry I missed your call earlier. I passed out.” I check on my frozen pizza not wanting it to burn.

“It’s ok. I just wanted to say thanks for the room.”

“You don’t have to thank me. I want you to have a good time.” I have that feeling that something is off. She doesn’t say anything and I don’t know what to say either. We both just sit in silence. I hear some guy whistle and hope that it’s not at her.

“What was that?” I ask.

“Nothing just some stupid guys.”

“Where are you?” I suddenly don’t like her being at a club for some reason.

“I’m out Max. why? What does it matter where I am. You wanted me to have a good time and that’s what I’m doing.” Ok where did that come from?

“I’m just asking, you don’t have to be so rude.”

“Sorry. Can I call you back tomorrow? I left Erika inside.”

“Ok. I love you.”

“Me too. Bye.” She hangs up and I get my food out of the oven settling in front of the TV for the rest of the night.

~*~Liz~*~

I try to push thoughts of Max out of my mind and go back into the club. This weekend is about Erika and I enjoying ourselves not Max’s impending fatherhood.

“Everything ok?” I walk inside and quickly spot Erika on the dance floor.

“Perfect.” No sense in bothering her with this mess.

Finally at close to five in the morning we decide to go back to the hotel. I’m all sweaty and gross. We each had a few drinks but not enough to get drunk.

“That was great.” She says once we hop in a cab.

“Yeah it was.” I lean my head against the cool window and stare at the strip. Even at this time of night everything is lit up.

A few minutes later we get to the hotel and take the elevator up to our suite.

“I’m going to get out of these clothes.” Erika says going into the bathroom. While she’s in there I decide to unpack and find something to wear. I go through my things and find something that I knew was a bad idea to bring in the first place. One of his t-shirts. It’s his favorite Nirvana shirt and I bring it up to my nose taking a deep breath. It smells like him. He only wore it for a few hours after we took a shower and before we went to bed so I grabbed it before he put it in the dirty clothes.

I take several deep breaths and the tears start rolling down my face. In my head I scream why over and over. Why can’t we catch a break? Why couldn’t things have stayed the way they were? Why does it seem like we aren’t meant to be?

“Hey, what’s wrong?” Erika comes out of the shower and catches me sitting on the edge of the bed crying.

“Nothing.” I wipe the tears away but more fall right after.

“Don’t nothing me. Your not crying for nothing. What’s up?” She sits next to me and I have a sense of déjà vu come over me. A few years ago we sat like this and both cried over Erik. How can I tell the sister of my dead ex-boyfriend that I’m having trouble with my husband. My husband that is having a baby with someone else?

“I’m betting is has something to do with the owner of that shirt.” I take the shirt away from under my nose and nod. When did I become this emotional idiot?

“So tell me about it.” She takes the towel off her hair and squeezes it dry.

“It’s complicated and long.”

“Well I’m wide awake so start talking.” She leans over and grabs a comb. I didn’t want to talk to her about this but something comes over me and I tell her all of it. Every single detail from the moment I met him to the phone call we had a few hours ago. Once I got started I couldn’t stop. Everything just came pouring out. She didn’t say anything I guess sensing that I needed to get it out. An occasional nod would let me know she was listening.

“So I found out a few days ago that he may have gotten some girl pregnant. The same girl that he brought to our house. He wasn’t going to tell me, he was trying to hide it. I mean could you imagine having some kid call the house years later asking ’are you my daddy?’ he was so careless to let it happen.” I turn to her and wait for her reaction to everything.

“Look I’m going to be honest with you. We used to be close at one time so I’m just going to give it to you straight. You can’t run away from this Liz. I know how you are and I know you like running away from things hoping that they will go away but they never do Liz. If you still love him, which I know you do, then fight for him. Shit happens Liz and I’m sure that he’s torn up about this too. If the girl is pregnant then you need to decide if you can live with that. If you say you can then you can’t hold it against him. If you can’t then let him go because you will both be miserable. I see that look in your eyes and I know that you love him, more then you loved Erik.” I open my mouth to speak but she stops me. “It’s ok Liz. You were young, it’s fine. It’s hard to find love Liz. True love and passion so when you have it don’t let it go. Fight with everything you have to keep it.” Her speech brings tears to my eyes. I think about Erik and Max. God I do love him, more then anything but can I get past this? If it’s true can I just live with it?

“The thing is that I don’t know if I can live with it. I don’t know if I can live with him having a child with someone else. I think it would hurt too much.” She knows about my past and my issues with getting pregnant.

“Then let him go Liz. Don’t make him or yourself miserable.” I know she’s right. I can’t stay with him and be mad at him everyday for having a baby with someone else. That isn’t fair. Nothing about this is fair. Everything sucks right now.

“I don’t want to let him go Erika. I love him.”

“I know you do. Maybe it’s not even true. He did say that he was careful, this chick might be lying. Girls do that all the time Liz.”

“I know but just the fact that it could have sucks.” I throw myself back on the pillows and let out a frustrated breath.

“It does but you knew about his habits. I’m not excusing it or anything but you knew about it. Every time he was with her or anyone else it could have happened.” She’s right but I still hate it.

“I know.”

“So are you going to stand by him or let him deal with this alone?” That is the million dollar question. I sit in silence for a while thinking about everything that we’ve been through good and bad. I think back to all the good times we’ve had and to how much Max has opened up to me.

“I’m going to stick by him. I love him.”

“Good. Now no more moping about this. We’re in Vegas and I want to party!” She twirls around the room causing me to laugh.

“That’s the spirit.” I get up and turn the radio on before joining her. I haven’t been up this late in years. It feels good to not worry about anything.

[Icequeen]

Ok guys it’s winding down now. The last part is VERY long so I may post it in two parts but this is the next to the last chapter. I’m sad to let this fic go but I think you will like the ending. Thank you all for your awesome FB. I’ve used that word out but it really is great. I love how you all have reacted to the characters. Anyway, thank you.

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~~Chapter 39~~

~*~Max~*~

I’ve slept over 9 hours and I’m still tired. What is wrong with me? I spend extra time in the shower this morning. Let’s just say that I was particularly missing Liz this morning.

“So I hear things are progressing nicely in Vegas.” Michael and I are going over some reports this morning in my office.

“Yeah everything is fine.” I take a sip of my coffee and make a face at the taste. I don’t really like coffee but I need the caffeine.

“So how is everything else?”

“I’m meeting her for lunch this afternoon.” I say brushing him off. I really don’t feel like discussing this.

“Really? Well congratulations, it’s about time you took some action.”

“Michael, can we not do this right now? I have a lot on my mind.” He says whatever and walks out. Only an hour to go.

~*~Liz~*~

Erika and I are having a great time. We had brunch then went to lay out by the gorgeous pool they have here. It was nice to just talk about random things, makes me miss Kris.

“Ok so we only have two days left. What are we going to do tonight?” She looks at me from the top of her magazine.

“I don’t know. How about we hit the casino tonight. We are in Vegas and haven’t done that yet.”

“Sounds good but I want to get something hot to wear tonight.” She winks and takes a sip of her tropical drink. I lean back and close my eyes soaking up the sun.

~*~Max: Lunch~*~

I arrive at the restaurant twenty minutes early and I’m a nervous wreck. I never thought I’d be in this position. Being a father scares the shit out of me but having a child with Bianca scares me even more. The thought of forever having a tie to her is not something I’m looking forward to at all.

I order a drink and see her walking towards me. Here goes nothing.

“Hi.” She says and sits across from me. I’m scanning her body I guess looking for signs of her showing. Maybe it’s too early. Maybe it’s a lie.

“Thank you for coming.” The waiter hands her a menu and she opens it.

“Well, you really didn’t give me a choice.” She says looking at me from the top of her menu.

“Well I’m going to get right to the point. When did it happen?” The waiter comes back and takes her order. I can’t eat anything and just order a salad to pick on.

“What do you mean when?”

“When as in what date? How far along are you?” She looks around for a moment then spits out a date. I already know that I was in town that week but I wanted to see if she changed her story.

“When did you find out?” I ask her.

“The day before I sent you the letter.” She seems really nervous. I catch her scanning the restaurant and wonder what she’s looking for.

“Who are you looking for?” I ask her.

“What? No one.” She fiddles with her silverware and now I know that something is wrong.

“And your sure it’s mine?” This is a sensitive question but I have to ask. I’m sure that she wasn’t exclusively with me.

“Yes.”

“Yes? Are you sure because you don’t sound like you are.” Something isn’t right here.

“Yes I’m sure. Do you think I want to be going through this?”

“Look this isn’t a party for me either alright? Do you think I want to go through this with you?” The waiter comes back with her food and conversation is paused for a moment. Since I’m not eating a watch her closely. Something is off, it almost sounds like she’s scared or something. Maybe it’s me imagining it all.

“Bianca I know that I wasn’t the only person you were sleeping with. I want to know how your so sure that it’s mine.”

“I just know ok. I-I wasn’t with anyone else at the-that week.” I find that hard to believe but I let it go.

“Well what is it that you want to happen?” I have a feeling that there is something more to all of this but I’ll play along with her for now.

“What do you mean?”

“I mean what do you expect from me?” This is an awkward conversation that’s for sure.

“I….umm….I’m not sure.” Ok file this one under odd. I’m sure she’s thought about this.

“Well I need to know Bianca.” I stab a piece of lettuce and bring it to my mouth.

“I guess just take care of your kid. I don’t know Max I haven’t really thought about it.” She says softly.

“What do you mean you didn’t think? You found out your were pregnant and send me paperwork saying it’s mine and you haven’t thought about it?”

“It was confused ok? She-” She goes to run her hand through her hair when her purse falls over spilling it’s contents on the table. I stare at what I see with wide eyes then lift my eyes to meet hers.

“Do you care to explain this?” I ask pointing to the contents. She looks at me then looks around the restaurant with her mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water.

~*~Liz~*~

“Erika come on, let me buy it for you.” We are in one of the shops at the hotel and Erika has just tried on a dress that looks like it was made just for her. The problem is that it’s way out of her price range.

“Liz I can’t, it’s too much.” She steps back in the dressing room to take it off.

“I want to. I offered, the dress is perfect for you.” I try to convince her.

“No Liz. Thank you but no.” She flings the dress over the top of the door and finishes getting ready.

“I’m buying it anyway. If you don’t want to wear it then that’s on you.” Quickly I grab the dress and walk to the register before she has a chance to stop me.

“You’re such a brat you know that.” We go back up to the room with our things.

“Shut up. The dress is to die for.” I’m sorting through everything trying to pick something out for tonight.

“Yeah I guess it is.” She picks it up and holds it against her body. My cell phone rings and I hop over the bed to grab it.

“Hello.”

“Hey girl. You go to Vegas for a few days and you can’t call me.”

“Hey Kris. What’s up?” I smile when I see Erika still staring at the dress.

“Not much. What are you up to?” We talk about what I’ve been doing for a while.

“Sounds like you are having a good time. I’m bored as hell but what else is new.”

“I’ll be home soon. I’m sure you can find something to entertain you.” She laughs and tells me to call her when I get back.

“Who was that?”

“Kris. She‘s bored.” I laugh and get my clothes to jump in the shower.

~*~Max~*~

“She said what?” After lunch I came back to the office and called Michael right away.

“She said that Tess had put her up to it.” I still can’t believe it myself.

“Ok start at the beginning.” I take a deep breath and calm down a little before going over what just happened.

“Do you care to explain this?” I asked pointing to the contents.

“I….well…”

“Cut the bullshit and tell me the truth. If your pregnant then you wouldn’t need tampons and you wouldn’t be smoking. Then again you could just be an idiot and a packrat, but most of all why do you have a tape recorder? Tell me what the fuck is going on!” I look around catching the raised tone of my voice.

“I can’t tell you….I’m sorry. I’m going to go.” She started to get up but I reached over and grabbed her arm making her sit back down.

“Your not going anywhere until you tell me what the fuck is going on. I can sit here all night.”

“I didn’t want to. She made me…I didn’t have a choice.”

“Full sentences this time. Spit it out!” She’s really testing me.

“A few weeks ago this girl came up to me. I didn’t know who she was and she started asking me questions about you and me. I didn’t know what to think and didn’t tell her anything at first.”

“So what made you change your mind and who was this girl?” Whoever it was is dead.

“Her name is Tess something. She asked me how often I would see you and how long we’ve been seeing each other. I don’t know why but I answered her. She wanted to know everything that you and I did and talked about. The next thing I know she’s giving me all this money to tell you that I’m pregnant.”

“And you didn’t ask her why she wanted to do this?” What an idiot!

“No. It was a lot of money Max and I didn’t think it would matter. I’m not pregnant so I didn’t think it would make a difference. I didn’t think you would care.“

“Have you lost your fucking mind? How did you not think that was suspect? Do you just sit around talking to random people giving them information about me? Would you give up my address to anyone who asks? How could you think that I wouldn‘t care that you were pregnant?”

“Well you never came off as the type to care much about anything. It wasn’t like that anyway. She knew things about you, I thought she knew you. She said that your wife was using you and she was just looking out for you. I-I thought she was a friend of yours. She asked me to record everything today. I-I thought she was helping you.”

“So it was Tess? Why?” Michael asks.

“Who the fuck knows. I guess she was trying to get Liz and I to have a falling out. How could she do this?” I rub my face.

“Well, it’s obvious that she’s an evil bitch.” I look up and smirk at him.

“What are you going to do?” He asks.

“I don’t know. I need to talk to Liz.” I want to tell her right away but rather do it in person.

“So what exactly was the deal?”

“Tess paid Bianca 50,000 to tell me she was pregnant. They made up their own tests and that’s what she gave me. The plan was to get Liz and I to be apart. She told Bianca that Liz was using me for my money and that Liz was trying to get pregnant to trap me. After that I don’t know what she wanted to do.”

“What a sick bitch.” Michael says.

“Tell me about it.” I need to get Tess back for what she did. She can’t get away with this.

“What did you say to Bianca?” He asks.

“I knew that you weren’t the sharpest tool in the shed and at one point I liked that about you but Jesus Bianca, I never thought you were a complete idiot. How could you not think that something was wrong with that?” She doesn’t say anything and it angers me more.

“So you took it upon yourself to decide that my wife was no good for me?”

“I-it wasn’t like that Max. She told me so much about your wife, I really thought she was a friend of yours.”

“Let me tell you something here and now and I don’t give a shit if your recording this. If I ever see you again and I mean ever, I promise you that you will be sorry. You will curse the day that you ever met me Bianca. You have caused more damage then you will ever know and for that I despise you. I highly suggest that you take whatever money that bitch gave you and disappear because even if I see you on the same street as I am I will make your life a living hell. I mean it Bianca, I never, ever want to see you again. You don’t exist to me. By the time I walk out of this restaurant you will be dead to me and we all know that when people die you never see them again.”

“…so I walked out and came here.”

“Wow. That was harsh but she deserved it. Tess is going to be seriously pissed when she finds out that you and Liz are still together.”

“Like I give a shit.” I snort.

“I’m glad you got it all sorted out though.”

“Me too.” I breathe a sigh of relief when he leaves. Now I just have to tell Liz about it and everything will be fine again.

I try to concentrate on work but a phone call from my father snaps me out of my thoughts.

“Hello.” I answer once Ann puts the call through.

“Max, I have some good news for you.”

“Ok.” He goes on to tell me that the man that attacked Liz and the man that was following her name is Eli Curtis and he has an extensive wrap sheet.

“I didn’t want to tell you before but I had someone following him for the past few days. I wanted to see what exactly they were up to and my guy saw him near your house a few days ago. He didn’t do anything, but he was snapping more pictures. I don’t know what they were up to and frankly I don’t care. A warrant has been issued for his arrest so it’s only a matter of hours before he’ll be taken into custody.

“Thank you. I’m sure Liz will be pleased.” I don’t tell him about the latest thing with Bianca.

“I’m glad. If anything else comes up I’ll keep you posted. I think we have enough evidence against him that we won’t need Liz to testify.”

“That’s good. I just want it to be over.” We say our goodbyes and I let out a breath of relief. Thoughts of what could have happened to Liz while I was away make my stomach turn but all that is over with.

~*~Liz~*~

“I don’t want to leave.” We are laying out by the pool.

“Me either.” We’ve had a good time and tonight will hit the casino.

“Everything will be fine Liz.” She lifts her sunglasses up and winks at me. I wish it were that easy.

“Thanks.” We grab our stuff and take the elevator back to the room.

“Ok I’m going to jump in the shower first because I need the most time to get ready. Not all of us are as lucky as you with that Neutrogena face of yours.” She pinches my cheek and goes into the bathroom.

“Ok you ready to go make some money?” We got dressed and head down to the casino.

“Let’s do it.” I let her lead and she walks to the blackjack table. I sigh and sit next to her as she places her first bets. No matter how much I don’t want to think about Max my thoughts drift to him. This is where we met, not this hotel but a blackjack table. I remember watching him out of the corner of my eye just wanting to get a glimpse of him. Erika’s screams snap me out of my thoughts. She won and is ecstatic.

“I love this game!” She says and places another bet. I scan the floor for a waitress desperately needing a drink. Everywhere I turn I think of Max. I finally see a waitress and flag her down.

“Scotch on the rocks please.”

“That’s a strong drink for a lady.” I hear someone say behind me and my breath catches in my throat.

~*~Max~*~

“I’m gathering my things getting ready to go home when my cell phone rings.

“Hello.” I grab my briefcase and head towards the elevators.

“Max?” It’s my father.

“Yeah. What’s wrong?” I ask sensing that something isn’t right by the tone of his voice.

“Can you come by my office? I-I need to talk to you about something.”

“What’s going on dad? Just tell me.” I hate waiting. I never understand why people can’t just tell you whatever it is over the phone.

“It’s Tess Max. Just come down here. I’ll be waiting.” He hangs up leaving me wonder why he would think I would care about anything involving Tess.

[Icequeen]

Sorry for taking so long with this but i had to get it just right and i'm still not 100% but I can't keep messing with it.

I sincerely want to thank ALL of you that took the time to read this fic and gave me a chance. It was a rocky road but I hope that you enjoyed the ride as much as I did. This was different for me and at times I didn’t think I could do it but your awesome FB encouraged me. I hope that it lived up to your expectations. Every moment of this fic was worth it when I saw your comments. I can’t tell you how fun it was for me to write these characters this way especially Kris. She will always have a place in my heart.

~*~*Chapter 40~*~*

~*~Max~*~

I race over to my fathers office trying to figure out what the hell is going on. Finally getting there I pull into the first spot that I see and rush out of the car.

“Dad?” I call for him when I see that the office is empty.

“In here.” He calls and I follow the voice to another office. When I walk in I see several police officers and my father looks upset.

“What’s going?” I ask.

“This is my son.” My father tells the officers.

“Can someone tell me what the hell is going on?” I demand getting annoyed already.

“Max, Tess is dead.”

“What? How? When?” Dead? How the hell? I hate the girl but I never wanted her dead.

“Mr. Curtis killed her.” One of the officers says. I hope that he doesn’t give the news to families like this. He’s so blunt about it as if it isn’t a big deal.

“What!” I scream not able to wrap my head around it. The officer goes on to tell me that there was an altercation, his words, and he apparently shot her at point blank range.

“Where is he now?”

“We have him in our custody Mr. Evans.” Dead? I still can’t believe it. Suddenly Liz pops into my mind. How the hell am I going to tell her this? After all they are family and as much as Liz disliked her I know it’s going to hit her hard. Tess was the only family she had left.

My father finishes up with the officers and comes back into the office.

“Are you ok?”

“No, I’m not ok. I hated the girl dad but I never wanted her dead. God, she was Liz’s only family and now she’s gone.” I hang my head between my legs breathing in deeply.

“I know son. I was surprised as well but he will no longer be a threat to Liz or you.” I don’t care about that. A person is dead, no matter how much I hated her she didn’t deserve to die.

“Ever since Liz came into my life her life has gotten out of control. She’s been through so much dad, I just don’t know what to do. I can’t stand to see her hurt anymore.” I tear slides down my face and I don’t bother to wipe it away.

“I’m sure that’s not true and I’m sure that Liz wouldn’t see it that way. Tess obviously had issues with Liz and if it wasn’t this then I’m sure she would have done something else to cause her pain. I’ve seen you two together and from what I saw she was happy. You were too. I’ve never seen you so happy Max. There is nothing a parent wants more then for his child to be happy.” It’s funny how the last person I would have ever thought about talking to a few weeks ago is now the one cheering me up.

“I am happy, so happy, and I just want that for Liz.” I play with my jacket that it’s my lap needing a distraction.

“You’re her family now Max. We are her family. You just have to be there for her. She‘s going to need you now so just be there for her. Everything will work out.”

“I know, I just don’t know how I’m going to tell her. She’s been through so much dad, it isn’t fair.” I tear slips down my face but it’s for Liz. She doesn’t deserve this. I get up ready to leave when my father catches me off guard and gives me a hug. I stand there awkwardly for a moment then return the gesture.

“Keep me posted ok?” I nod and drive home in total shock. I decide that I need to tell Liz in person, this isn’t something that you say over the phone. It’s still pretty early and I formulate a plan.

I get home and sit in the living room with the lights off. A thousand thoughts are running through my head right now. The main question is why? I still can’t believe that Tess is gone, literally gone. I have never hated anyone more then I hated her but I feel guilty now thinking about her in that way. Is it right to say that you hated someone that is now dead? The phone rings and snaps me out of my thoughts.

“Hello.”

“Max! Oh my God have you seen the news?” It’s Kris.

“No. Why?”

“It’s Tess. She’s-”

“I know.” I stop her before she can say it. I can’t take another person saying it today.

“Does Liz know? Has she called you? Have you called her?”

“No.”

“No! Why the hell not!” She screams.

“I want to tell her in person. I’m just thankful that she doesn’t normally watch the news so I don’t think she’ll see it.”

“Do you know what happened?” She asks.

“Yeah.” She doesn’t say anything for a while and neither do I.

“Well?”

“I really don’t want to talk about it Kris.”

“Well too bad. I’m coming over.” She hangs up not giving me time to protest. I drop down on the sofa again and wait for her to get here. Maybe talking about it will help. Who the hell knows.

I’m partially asleep when I hear the doorbell.

“I’m sorry to come over like this but it’s just so…crazy. I can’t talk to Liz about it so, I’m sorry.”

“It’s ok.” I see the concern in her eyes and open the door wider to let her in.

“You want anything to drink?” I ask her walking to the kitchen to get myself something.

“A soda maybe.” I nod and get her a drink.

“So my father was the one that called me and told me.” I tell her everything my father found out ending with the phone call I received from him.

“So she’s been having Liz followed? Why?” I realize that she doesn’t know the whole story about Bianca either and end up telling her that as well.

“Oh my God. That is crazy!” She puts her hand over her mouth.

“I know. And I may be a horrible person for saying this but I’m glad it’s over.”

“I know what you mean. I know that you don’t want Tess dead or anything, I understand.” I offer her a small smile and take a sip of my drink.

“I have to tell Liz in person, as soon as possible. I’m flying out there tonight if I can.”

“That’s a good idea. Take care of her Max. This is going to hit her hard, Tess was her only blood family that she had left.” I smile at the fact that she said blood family.

“I will, I promise you that. I love her and I just want to be there for her. I want to fix this, all of it.”

“Max, there isn’t as much to fix as you think and you don’t have to be the martyr all the time. Liz is my best friend but even I know that she’s not perfect. The way I see it you both did some crazy shit but look at where you are now? You are both in love, really in love. I say you are perfect for each other because you are both so incredibly stubborn but if you can get passed that, you guys are perfectly matched. It’s quite annoying actually.” I laugh.

“So why the hell aren’t you married?” I try to lighten the mood.

“Me? I’m waiting for David Beckham to dump his alien wife and declare is love for me.” I shake my head and laugh. Deep down I sense that this isn’t something she likes to talk about. I wonder why? She’s nice and without sounding like I’ve been checking her out she’s pretty good looking.

“So how long have you known Liz?” I feel at ease with her.

“Wow umm I would say about five years now. We met shortly after she finished college and moved out here. How about you? You been friends long with anyone?”

“Yeah, Michael. I’ve known him forever it seems. We went to college together. I’ve known his wife, Maria for just as long too.” She sits her cup down on the table and gets comfortable. I guess talking is helping her too or she thinks that I need it.

“That’s cool. I don’t have any other close friends besides Liz. I just seem to get bored of people I guess.”

“I can see that about you. So have you always been so straightforward?” I ask with a raised eyebrow.

“Yeah umm about that. I wanted to apologize for that. I shouldn’t have looked in your things like that. It’s a bad habit, that I’m trying to break, but I know that it wasn’t right.”

“I understand. Liz is lucky to have you as a friend.” We laugh and sit and talk for a few hours. I make a call and tell my pilot to get the plane ready.

“Have Liz call me when she gets a chance.” She gets her purse and I walk her out.

I quickly pack a few things and head for the airport. Liz and I have so much to talk about but I can’t wait for her to come back. I need to do this now. She was set to come home tomorrow anyway so I wouldn’t be ruining her trip.

I got into Vegas and luck was defiantly on my side. On the plane ride I planned everything out and with a little luck it should work out perfectly. All I need to do is get some rest and prepare for tomorrow.

~*~Liz~*~

I spin around silently hoping that it’s Max. When I come face to face with the owner of the voice it’s not him.

“Excuse me?” I say annoyed that he’s not Max and that he made that stupid comment.

“That’s a strong drink for you.” he says again. Who the hell is this guy?

“And why would that be your business?”

“It’s not, I was just saying.” This guy is a loser.

“Well don’t.” The waitress comes back with my drink and I gulp it down as fast as I can. The guy is giving me the creeps so I grab Erika and move to another table.

An hour goes by and I don’t feel like being here anymore.

“I’m going up to the room. I have a headache.” I feel badly since she’s having such a good time.

“Ok.” I see her grabbing he chips and stop her.

“Stay. Have a good time.” Her face lights up and I smile then walk to the elevators. I could have sworn that I saw Max in the casino but I guess I’m imagining things. What would he be doing here anyway?

I didn’t realize how tired I was or how late it is until I get out of the shower. I needed to get the cigarette smell off of me. Changing into Max’s shirt that I brought with me I slide under the covers and turn the TV on. We are set to go home tomorrow night.

Hours later I hear the door open and hear Erika walking in.

“You have a good time?” I ask when she stumbles into the room.

“Yeah. The best.” She has a huge smile on her face and it makes me happy.

“Good. You win anything?” I ask as she walks around the room changing her clothes.

“Actually did. I won a few hundred dollars.”

“Not bad for a first timer.” I laugh.

“Thanks. So why did you come up to the room?”

“I told you, I was tired.” I fake a yawn just to prove my point.

“Liar.” She laughs.

“You miss him don’t you?” She sits next to me and brushes her hair.

“No.” I lie.

“You are the worst liar you know that? Anyway who knows maybe tomorrow will be the start of something new.”

“What the heck does that mean?” I hate when people talk in riddles.

“Night Liz!” She waves and walks to her room. What is up with her? Must be the alcohol or lack of oxygen.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

I’m up early the next morning and order some breakfast while I wait for Erika to wake up.

“Morning.” She comes out of her room as I flip through the channels.

“Hey. You have fun last night?” I ask. She looks tired as hell still.

“Oh yeah! I love Vegas.” Didn’t expect her to be so cheerful.

“So what did you want to do today?” I ask as she scans the room service menu.

“First food then maybe we can take a site seeing tour or something?”

“In Vegas?” I asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Yeah in Vegas. Come on it might be fun.”

“Ok?” I shrug.

“So you mentioned that your husband was here this week too, why didn’t you guys spend time together?” She soaks up the syrup with her pancake and shoves it into her mouth. She can eat like a pig and not gain weight, lucky bitch.

“I don’t know.”

“Bullshit. Your still doing it Liz.” I look at her puzzled.

“Don’t even try and sit there like you don’t know what I’m talking about. I’ve seen you do this before and I can’t believe your still like this.”

“What the hell are you talking about?” I finally ask her.

“This is sad Liz. When are you going to realize that running away from things and bitching about them never gets anything resolved? You do it all the time and you only end up more miserable. When Eric died what did you do?”

“I-I-. Why are you doing this!”

“Because someone needs to. The running away was fine before but now it’s just stupid.” I can’t believe her.

“Why are you attacking me?”

“I’m not. See that’s part of your problem, whenever someone tries to talk to you or questions your motives you want to close off cause you feel like your being attacked, I call bullshit. It needs to stop Liz because if you keep doing this your going to end up alone and I don’t want that for you.” I have the pleasure of having two friends that are brutally honest.

“I’m not alone. I have Max.”

“Do you?” She’s speaking in such a calm manner and it makes me nervous.

“Yes. Why would you think I didn’t.”

“Look I don’t want to turn this into a whole….thing so I’ll just say this. Think of it as my closing arguments. You have to stop running from shit and you have to stop the poor me crap. Shit happens, it happens to everyone. When the said shit happens you need to face it and stick by the people that love you, that’s when you’ll need them the most. Pushing people away doesn’t help anyone. You’ve become a master of that and it’s time you stop. I care about you and I know that we will never be as close as we were but I’ll always be here for you, whenever you need me.” Her speech brings tears into my eyes. She’s right, everyone is right.

“Thank you.” I reach over and hug her tightly.

“Ok moment over. Let‘s see what Vegas has to offer.” We grab our things and head out to where I don’t know.

“Since when are tours given in a limo?” I ask Erika when we get outside.

“Since today.” She smiles and gets in after me. Something is going on. We drive down the strip slowly, painfully slow.

“Hey look, it’s the Palms. I’ve heard so much about that hotel.” She says and I just shrug.

“Oh wow look at that.” She says trying to get my attention.

“I’ve seen it before.” I roll my eyes and slink back into my seat.

“Liz come on you have to check this out!”

“Ugh what!” I move over to the window and everything looks the same to me. It’s when I look further up that I see what she’s talking about.

“Do you see it?” She asks excited.

“Yes I see it.” I stare up at a flashing billboard on the side of the Palms where they usually display a boxing match or special event and see Elizabeth Evans I love you!

“Did you know about this?” I ask her and suddenly the limo starts moving again. Was he waiting for me to see it?

“Nope.” She shrugs but can’t take the huge smile off her face. She knew but how is the question.

“Liar! How did you know?” I ask.

“I’ll never tell.” She says in a sing song voice. The car drives further down the strip and Erika and I now have our heads sticking out of the sunroof of the limo. As we drive down the strip I see several more billboards and signs with the same message. When did he have time to do this?

“Where are we going?” I ask when the limo stops and she gets out.

“We aren’t going anywhere. I’m getting out, you have someone waiting on you.” She winks at me.

“But…”

“No buts. I met him last night. It was the funniest thing. I hear him talking and when he said his name I approached him. He’s a good man Liz. I’m so happy for you. Don’t think you can drop me now that you have yourself a husband either.” She laughs.

“Thank you.” She pulls away and I see her hail a cab before we drive off. We drive way from the strip and into the desert. I see less and less buildings and start to get worried. Just as I’m about to tap on the glass I see a large white tent in the middle of nowhere. The limo veers off the road and drives down towards the tent.

“Thank you.” I say to the driver when he comes to open the door for me. He drives off and I’m scared. I’m out here in the middle of nowhere with no cell phone. Nice Liz, haven’t you learned anything from those made for TV movies? All I need is a rainstorm.

Hesitantly I walk towards the tent. I know that Max is in there but I’m still nervous. When I step inside the tent I’m pleasantly surprised. White roses and lilies adorn the inside as well as several candles. There is a small round table off to one side with rose petals scattered over the top.

I wonder where Max is and scan the tent for him.

~*~Max~*~

I know she’s in there, I saw the limo pull off. I slowly drive my car closer to the tent and give her a few moments before I go in. It was pure luck meeting Erika in the hotel lobby but I’m glad that I did. It made this part easier for me.

I step into the tent and suck in a deep breath. She looks like a goddess as she sits in front of the table. She looks up at me and smiles. I take it as a good sign.

“Your gorgeous.” I stand in front of her and run my hands through her hair.

“Max what is all of this?”

“Liz, I have a lot to tell you but I need you to listen to me ok?” She nods and I grab the other chair placing it in front of her and away from the table.

“First and foremost I love you, heart, mind, body and soul. I need you to know that and understand it.”

“I do Max.” She whispers with tears in her eyes.

“No crying Angel.” I caress her cheek and smile at her. I decide to go with the good news first.

“I know that I haven’t been perfect and was even pretty shitty towards you at first but you’ve completely captured my heart Liz. I have never been so happy or miserable in my whole life. I’ve been miserable but it was my fault. I didn’t share something with you and I should have. I promised that we wouldn’t keep things from each other and I broke that promise. For that I’m truly sorry.”

“Max it’s…” I place my finger over her lips wanting to get this all out.

“Angel let me get this all out ok?” She nods and I continue.

“This whole thing with Bianca was a set up. Tess was behind it. Long story short she wanted to break us up.” She looks at me with wide eyes.

“She’s not…”

“No she’s not or ever was. I’m so incredibly sorry that you had to go through that. I know how you feel about that and I’m truly sorry. I never want you to feel pain least of all pain caused by me.”

“But it was a possibility.” I hadn’t expected that but should have known.

“It was and I have no excuse for that.” I lower my head feeling like scum.

“I just don’t understand why Max? Why would you be willing to take a chance like that?” Oh God she has this all wrong.

“Angel it’s not what you think. What I meant was every time we had sex it was a possibility. I was careful but nothing is one hundred percent. I always used…”

“Ok spare me the details please.” She cuts in and I’m glad.

“Max, what do we do? So much has happened?”

“I know angel. All I can tell you is what I want to happen. I want to be with you more than I want anything in the world. I know I have flaws, monumental flaws even but I want to be with you. I want to work on being a better person for you but most of all for me.” I blink back the tears in my eyes and wait for her reaction.

“Your not a bad person Max. I’ve seen the change in you and I know who you really are. I’ve put everything that happened in the beginning behind me. We both did and said some things that weren’t nice. I’m just scared Max.”

“Scared of what?” I ask scooting closer to her.

“Of not being able to give you what you want…later on.”

“Baby we talked about that. There are ways around that when the time comes. Besides, it’s not totally out of the picture. That doesn’t matter to me Liz.” I look her in the eye so she knows I’m serious.

“What did I ever do to deserve you?”

“Are you kidding? I should be asking you that. “ She gets up and sits on my lap.

“Wait I have something to ask you.” I lift her off of me and kneel in front of her.

“Elizabeth Evans will you grant me the honor of becoming my wife…again?” I pull out the box with a wedding band to match the engagement ring I gave her.

“Yes.” She leaps off the chair and grabs my face before giving me a passionate kiss.

“How about be christen this tent?” She asks when she pulls away. I look at her with a raised eyebrow.

“Come on you know you want to.” I tickle her a little and she squirms in my arms.

“Well you know what they say right?” She says seductively.

“No. What do they say?”

“What happens in Vegas….” She says and slides her hand under my pants.

We make love over and over and decide to get a room for the night before flying back. Once we get into the hotel room I know that I have to tell her. I promised her I wouldn’t keep anything from her and I don’t plan on it.

“Liz?” I’m in the bedroom while she’s in the bathroom getting changed.

“Yeah.” She comes out and sits next to me on the large bed.

“I have something else to tell you.” She looks at me as if she’s about to cry.

“It’s something I found out just yesterday but it doesn’t have anything to do with me, or us.”

“Max just get it out please.” That is the same way I felt when my father was talking to me so I get it out as fast and as painless as I can.

“So she’s d-dead?” She says after I tell her the whole story.

“Yes sweetheart.” I tear slides down her face and I reach over and pull her into my arms.

“I’m so sorry honey. I know that she was the only family you had left. I’m sorry you have to go through this baby.” I feel her tears soak through my shirt and rock her gently letting her get it all out.

“I just can’t believe it.” She says between sobs. “I know that we didn’t always get along but I never wanted her-”

“Shhh. It’s ok. Everything will be ok.” It’s killing me that she’s in so much pain.

“I-I when you told me what she did earlier I hated her Max. I really hated her and now she’s d-dead.” I know exactly how she feels.

“It’s ok Liz. I know that you never wanted this for her. I’m sorry.” I keep saying that. I don’t know what else to say to make this go away for her.

“She’s all I had left Max. She was my last blood relative.”

“I know but you have me now. You have Kris, Michael, Maria and my parents honey. Your not alone, you’ll never be alone.” I don’t know if that will help her pain but it’s the truth.

“Thank you.” She wipes her tears away but they are soon replaces by a fresh set.

“We’ll get through this Liz. It will stop hurting eventually, I promise.” I smooth back her hair in an effort to calm her down.

“I love you Max.”

“I know angel.” I let her get it all out until she finally falls asleep.

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