Roswell Fanatics

Hello Yes, here I am actually posting a day early! I couldn't sleep Friday night so I decided to at least be productive I hope ALL the mothers out there had a HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!! Btw, one line was taken from the movie "Chasing Liberty" so I obviously don't own it! Now on with the story, I hope you enjoy...

CHAPTER 30

“My destiny?” Liz took a long, hard look at the man standing before her, and while she couldn’t place it, there was something about him that was familiar to her. Her instincts told her to beg for answers, and yet deep down she was afraid. “I don’t understand…you don’t even know me.”

“That, my child, is where you are wrong. I have the answers you seek, but I feel it is not my place to tell you. But, if you truly are ready to face your destiny, I will unlock the door to your past where all of those answers await.” River Dog remained calm, but eager to finish his quest. He was a man of his word and of his faith, which bonded him mind, body, and soul to the promise he’d made.

Max stood up and stepped in front of Liz to block the man’s view of her. “Who are you, old man? How do you know anything about this place? Did you know Claudia Parker, and if so, what is it you know about her granddaughter?”

“I understand your questions, son, for they are quite reasonable, but my question was for the young lady. Is she ready to know her destiny?” River Dog asked again. He could see the protectiveness over Liz Parker and that his intentions were honorable, but she must choose for herself.

“Liz,” Isabel reached over and took her hand into her own, “do you want to know? No one would blame you for walking away.”

Liz pondered the thought and found so much fear within herself. If this man knew anything about her, she was sure it would change her whole life. The things you’re most afraid of are usually the most worthwhile. She could hear her grandma's words replaying in her head. “Yes, I think I want to know.”

Max turned around and knelt down in front of her. “Liz, think about this. We don’t even know if what this man says is the truth, so why bother listening?” Max placed a gentle hand on Liz’s tummy. “You’ve been through enough…do you really think you should take on more?”

Liz raised a hand and brushed her fingers against his cheek. “Max, I know you mean well, but I have to know. So many things have come to light…you can’t pass them all off as coincidence.”

“Are you sure?” He asked one final time.

“Yes, Max…I’m ready.” Max moved aside so that Liz was face to face with the elderly Indian man. “I am ready to know, but first I would like to know your name and how you knew my grandmother.”

River Dog smiled. She was so much like Claudia. Her instincts. Her intelligence. Claudia had always said the child was special, and she was right. “My name is River Dog and I knew your grandmother as far back as our youth. She enjoyed spending much time on the reservation, and we were friends. She understood my people in a time when the surrounding towns did not accept us. She was a loyal friend, and we were close up until the time of her death.”

“Then why have I never heard of you? My grandma and I didn’t keep secrets from each other.” Liz insisted. She had to know who this man was before she could trust his word.

“We discussed this many times, Claudia and I, but she felt it was a secret best kept. She loved you from the moment you were born and would’ve done anything to protect you.”

“Protect me from what?”

“From the truth of course. She knew that it was better left unsaid until you were an adult. She wanted so much for you to have a normal, healthy life, so we agreed. Just before she died she told me your destiny was coming, and when it did it was up to me to show you your path. So you see, I’ve been waiting for this moment for some time now.”

He still hadn’t given her any hard facts, but despite herself…she trusted him. “Then tell me…tell me what my destiny is.”

~*~*~*~*~

When Maria finally woke up it was after four in the afternoon. Her mother had grilled her and Michael relentlessly until long after the sun had risen. Oh my God! Michael! Quickly, she jumped out of bed and ran toward the living room. There were pillows and folded blankets, but no sign of Michael. Just as she was about to panic, she heard laughter coming from the kitchen. Slowly and unsure, she eased open the door to the kitchen. There at the kitchen table sat her mother and Michael Guerin, both caught up in a fit of laughter.

“Am I interrupting?” she asked as she stared in awe at the scene before her.

Amy stood up and walked to her daughter. “Hi, baby. Sleep well?”

Maria didn’t know how to answer. This was not her mother. Her mother would still be on the verge of a breakdown, not fraternizing with the enemy, as Maria knew was how she viewed Michael Guerin. “Did I miss something?”

“Just most of the day. Are you hungry?” Amy asked cheerfully.

“Mom, you don’t cook.”

“Now, Maria…you know that’s not true. I happen to be a fantastic cook. Right, Michael?”

“Yes, Ms. Deluca, you are.” He watched her smile and waited for her to turn away. Once he knew she couldn’t see him, he held his hands to his throat, and rolled his eyes backwards.

Maria had to stifle a giggle so she wouldn’t hurt her mother’s feelings. She didn’t know what had brought on this wonderful mood of hers, but she wasn’t about to be the one to spoil it. “So…what have you two been talking about?”

Amy looked at Michael and chuckled before returning to the table with a cup of coffee for Maria. “Honey, please sit down.” Amy patted the seat next to her and waited for Maria to join them.

Reluctantly, Maria crossed the modest kitchen and sat down. While she was still uneasy, the coffee was calling out her name. “Thank you,” she said to her mother as she took a sip. “So, what were you two laughing about?”

“Oh you know…this and that.” Amy tried very hard to hold her smile, but she couldn’t.

Maria set the mug back down on the table and stared down the two of them. “Spill it. I know you were in here having a chat…well I want to know about what.”

Finally, Michael caved. He knew Maria wouldn’t give up until she knew the truth, and he wasn’t about to piss her off if he could avoid it. “If you must know, we were talking about you.”

“Me?” Maria looked at each of them and shook her head. “No, I don’t believe you. Earlier this morning you wanted to castrate him,” she said directly to her mother, “and you don’t know how to laugh, Spaceboy.” She finished while waving a finger at him.

“Spaceboy?” Amy laughed as she looked at her daughter. “Just the kind of nickname I’d expect coming from you. Since you insist on knowing every detail, then I will tell you. Michael was just filling me in on your trip home, and on how difficult you can be. Obviously, we had to compare notes.” Amy winked at Michael and raised her own mug to her mouth.

“Great! This morning he’s the devil, but now that he agrees with you about how neurotic I am, you’re being nice?”

“Maria. I’m always nice to guests.” She replied innocently.

“Really? Could’ve fooled me at five this morning.” Maria retorted.

Michael reached over, took Maria’s hand, and shot her a glare when their eyes met. “I think it was very kind of your mother to take me in temporarily, don’t you?”

Maria got it. She didn’t like that she had been the cause of their laughter, but she was thankful that Michael had a place to stay for the time being. “Well I’m just happy to see everyone getting along. So…Mom…does this mean I’m not grounded?”

Amy stood up and walked over to the sink to rinse out her cup. “I called for a peace treaty, Maria, I didn’t completely lose my mind.”

“Ok…so what are we talking…two days…three days…what?” She asked hopefully without being too pushy.

“Maria…you’ll be lucky if I let you see the light of day any time soon.”

“But, Mom…I have some serious issues to take care off.” She whined. “Liz needs me.”

“Liz is always welcome in this house, but you should’ve thought more about the consequences before you left the state. If we’re through, I need to go get changed. Jim and I are going out tonight, but your behind had better stay in this house.”

“Fine.” Maria pouted.

“Good.” Amy bent down and kissed the top of her daughter’s head as she passed by. “Believe it or not…I’m glad you’re home. It was nice talking to you, Michael.”

“Same to you, Ms. Deluca.” He waved as she disappeared through the door.

Maria reached over and punched him in the arm. “Ouch! Dammit, Maria…what was that for?”

“For being a traitor. As long as you were buttering her up, you could’ve tried to get me out of being grounded.”

Michael shook his head. He was too tired to argue with her today. “What now? You’re grounded and I know Max wanted to return to the pod chamber.”

“If you need to go, then go.”

“No. After everything we’ve been through, I wouldn’t leave you behind.”

“Aww, Spaceboy.” She leaned over and planted several kisses across his face. “I knew you had a sweet side that was dying to get out.”

“Well yeah, but I also don’t have a car. Remember? Sheriff Valenti made us all leave our cars at the café.” Maria reached over and punched him again, then left the room. “What’d I say?”

~*~*~*~*~

Max held Liz’s hand as River Dog began to speak. He could feel her pulse racing and imagined her heart beating so rapidly in her chest. He knew the information that River Dog claimed to have was probably important, but he couldn’t help but worry about Liz and the baby. He couldn’t lose them…he couldn’t.

“I’m sure young Max here has already told you that a ship did crash in 1947. Am I right?”

“Yes…he did.”

“We were out here that night. Your grandmother loved the dessert at night…watching the stars, listening to the animals…everything. We spent many nights out here exploring. We were young and very curious.”

“So…you and my grandmother were…” Liz was too embarrassed to finish her sentence.

“No, child…just friends. I adored your grandmother, but her spirit was too free to be tied down. Back to my story…we were out here and saw everything. We saw the bright lights first, and then we saw the ship crash. Your grandmother wasted no time, immediately taking off toward the ship. I wasn’t far behind, but by the time I reached her she’d already found these pods.” He turned around and gestured toward the four empty pods on the cave wall.

“Was there anyone else?” Max asked, choking back tears.

River Dog shook his head. “No, son…I’m sorry. The ship was almost completely destroyed. That’s why we were so amazed that the pods were not damaged. Claudia felt like it was a sign…she believed you were meant to be, so she took on the responsibility of watching after you. There wasn’t a lot of time, but Claudia already knew about this cave and decided it would be safe enough for you.”

“But the crash was in 1947…we’re not sixty years old.” Isabel pointed out.

“No, you are not. When we found the pods, they were unharmed. You were inside, but you hadn’t reached maturity level.”

“You talk as if we’re some kind of experiment.” Max challenged. He didn’t like feeling like a thing.

“I’m sorry…it was not my intention. This…it’s not easy for me to explain.” River Dog wasn’t sure how to explain this without insulting the young man again. “Think of it as childbirth…a baby lies in its mother’s womb until it reaches a mature enough state to survive in the outside world…that was you. You were not ready. So Claudia spent week after week, month after month, year after year watching over you and making sure you were safe.” He turned to face Liz directly. “Claudia never gave up keeping watch over the pods. It was a secret, our secret, but even her family knew nothing. When your parents married, they tried for a long time to have a child, but were not able. Claudia was devastated as she watched their marriage begin to disintegrate, so she came out here for comfort. She prayed that her God would help her save her son from the anguish he felt…then one night she felt that her prayers had been answered.”

“How?” Liz asked, still trying to be realistic despite the tale he told.

River Dog walked over to the pod on the bottom left, reached out a hand to touch it, and turned back to smile at Liz. “You were so perfect, so beautiful, almost angelic looking. The other sacks were still in tact, but yours wasn’t. Claudia feared you would not survive if she left you here alone, for you made your entrance into our world as an infant.” He smiled as he remembered that night. He’d never seen Claudia happier or more beautiful. “Claudia did the only thing she knew how to do…she loved you instantly, forming an unbreakable bond, so what better place for you than with her son?”

“But I’m not adopted.” Liz insisted.

For Max there was an obvious ring of truth to this man’s story, so he yearned to hear more. “Please, Liz…hear him out.”

When he saw her head nod, he continued again. “Your parents had many questions, questions Claudia could not answer for them, but in the end they were so happy to have you that they let go of their suspicions. Claudia loved watching you grow through the years, but blamed herself for missing the births of the other three. By the time she’d heard about the small children, roaming naked through the dessert, she was too late. They were adopted and sent far away. She tried to keep track of them, but adoption records are sealed so she lost track of the other three. It ate away at her for a long time, but she still had you, and she found peace in that. We watched you grow throughout the years, thankful we’d been in the dessert that night. You were the most precious thing in the world to Claudia.”

“I loved my Grandma Claudia very much.” Liz mumbled.

“And she loved you. Many years later, two young men arrived and from the very instant she met them both, she knew them.” Now, he smiled at Max. “When you came here, Claudia knew you were Liz’s match. She had no doubts. She’d studied the writings on the pods and was sure she’d figured out what they meant. You were Liz’s destiny…there was no denying it. She wanted you to meet her granddaughter then, but she was still a young girl, and Claudia believed if it were destiny you would find her eventually. And here you are.”

“But I met Max by coincidence.”

“Nothing is coincidence, my child. He was your destiny long before you were born…that can’t be denied.”

“What about the other two pods? If Liz and Max were destined, then the other two…” Isabel couldn’t believe what she was asking.

“They are destined also. When the time is right, you will be drawn to your other half.”

“Oh my God! That can’t be true! I’m destined to be with Michael? Not a chance! Screw destiny!” Isabel blurted out.

Since the reality had not fully hit her, Liz laughed at Isabel’s outburst. “To think…you and Michael.” She tried to control her laughter, but couldn’t. “I’d be careful, because I think Alex and Maria might have something to say about that!”

“River Dog,” Max had to know more, “you’re saying that Liz is one of us…you’re certain of this?”

“Yes, son, I am.” He smiled proudly at the three beautiful people before him. Had it not been for Claudia and him, they might not even be there. Now he only wished Claudia had lived to see this day.

“But shouldn’t she have powers like the rest of us? Gifts?” Max questioned.

“From Claudia’s findings…it seems the females would not receive their gifts, as you put it, until they found their counterparts. The males were considered dominant.”

“What a load of crap!” Isabel knew she was being very outspoken, but so much of this seemed like ancient customs she’d studied. Betrothed couples with the male dominating…it felt as though they’d stepped back several centuries.

River Dog just smiled, understanding the young woman’s irritation. Claudia had been a feminist, and when she wasn’t dreaming of the romantic aspect, she’d been horribly upset with what she referred to as ancient politics.

“I have another question.” Max took a deep breath and let it out before speaking again. From everything River Dog had already told them, he now feared for Liz and the baby. “If Liz is one of us, then what would happen to her body if she became pregnant?”

River Dog smiled again, assuming he was asking for himself and Liz’s future. “All that I know is that your bodies are different. I watched some of the rapid growth of our young Liz, so I would assume a pregnancy would be much different than normal…much faster, progressing quickly.”

“Max?” Liz said in a panicked tone.

Max pulled her in and embraced her tightly. He wasn’t about to let anything happen to her. “I’m here, and everything’s going to be ok. I’ll make sure of it.”

“Have the two of you already mated?” River Dog questioned openly. “Is Liz with child?”

“Yes, she is…but it isn’t mine…the baby’s father is human.”

“That cannot be.”

“Well, it is.” Max felt his control slipping further and further away. He had to protect Liz, it was destined, but with Kyle’s child growing inside her…he felt helpless.

“Am I going to be ok?” Liz asked River Dog through a blanket of tears streaming down her face.

“I assume you have found your fourth…yes?”

“Yes, we have.” Isabel responded, still disgusted that Michael was supposedly her destiny.

“Then she will be fine. Together, the four of you make a complete unit. All together you should have great power, which will come to be of great use over the next few months. She will need you all, but I would suggest leaving the human out of this. This child will not only grow quickly within you, but will have special gifts upon its birth. Gifts that you will not be able to explain.”

“The baby’s father already knows.” Liz whispered, still trying to grasp the reality of who she really is.

“You must keep your distance from him…humans will not accept that which is different from them.”

“But you accept it?” Isabel asked.

“Yes I do, but only because I’ve had sixty years to understand. Be careful who you trust…there are people that would wish you harm.” River Dog saw the setting sun just beyond the cave entrance. “I must go. Please be safe…it was Claudia’s only wish.”

“River Dog!” Liz called out, stopping him from leaving.

“Yes, my child?”

“I have to know one more thing.”

“Anything.”

“Do my parents know the truth?”

It was the one question he’d hoped would not come up, but since it had…he would not lie. “Claudia told them just before she died…yes…they know the truth.”

“But they never…”

River Dog could see the hurt in young Liz’s eyes, which pained him greatly. “I’m afraid they are the only ones that can answer your questions now. Goodnight.” He turned and in an instant was gone.

Max, Liz, and Isabel sat there in silence for quite a while. None of them knew where to go from here.


TBC

I'm back! I hope you all enjoy and I'm sorry this chapter is so late Don't worry I promise this fic will get finished along with my new fic with Amy (FamersAmers) Can you ever go back? I'll be back next week!

Melyssa

CHAPTER 31

It had been almost an hour since they’d left the pod chamber, and Liz had not spoken a single word. They could’ve been back in town by now, but Max was driving in circles, afraid to take her home. No one could blame her for the shock she was currently feeling and unfortunately neither Max nor Isabel could reach her. She’d taken the news of Max, Isabel, and Michael being different very well, but she’d never thought for a moment that it could involve her too. She’d been raised completely human and unaware that she was different in any way. Now, everything she’d ever known about herself and who she truly was had been brought into question.

Max thought about the child growing inside her and wondered how they were going to get through the next few months. The only thing he knew for sure right now was that Kyle posed a threat to all of them. He wouldn’t accept his child being different, and with the town’s sheriff for a father…he was exactly the kind of person they needed to avoid.

“It’s getting dark, Max.” Isabel had leaned forward and was whispering in his ear. “I know you’re worried, so am I, but we have to go home.”

“I know.” He glanced toward Liz, but she hadn’t moved in quite a while. She was bundled up in the passenger seat, staring off in the distance. “I just don’t know what to do.”

“Max, we need Michael. Right now he doesn’t know anything and you heard what River Dog said…the four of us are a unit. We need him to be whole. You want to keep Liz safe, don’t you?”

“Of course I do. What kind of question is that?”

Isabel soothed her voice and laid a comforting hand on Max’s shoulder. “I’m sorry, Max…I’m just worried right now…I didn’t mean to upset you.” Isabel felt the pang of guilt. She was genuinely concerned about Liz right now and it was wrong to use her as a pawn against Max. Liz was no longer an outsider…she was one of them. “Max, the sooner we get to Michael, the quicker we can figure out where to go from here.”

“Ok.” Max turned his car around and headed for town. Michael wasn’t going to like this, any of this, but Isabel was right…they needed him right now.

~*~*~*~*~

“They should’ve been back by now.” Jeff blurted out as he looked at the clock again. “It’s almost nine…where are they?”

“Jeff,” Nancy started calmly. Her husband had been upset since the moment they’d left this afternoon, and right now was no different. “I’m sure they’ll be back soon. Liz just wanted to show Max around town. I think you’re going to have to get used to the fact that Max Evans is real and it doesn’t look like he’s going anywhere.”

“How can you be so calm? Once he knows everything…” Jeff choked on the words before he could finish his sentence. All he wanted was to keep his baby safe, and right now he felt powerless.

“You don’t know that it will change anything. He really seems to love Liz and I have faith he’ll stay by her side.” Nancy stood up and walked around the end of the counter to face her husband. “Jeff, we always knew this day would come. Well, it’s here. We don’t have any other choice than to deal with it and hope for the best.”

“But, Nancy…”

“Jeff,” Nancy interrupted, “she wasn’t going to stay a baby forever. Do you really want our little girl to live a lifetime alone?”

“No.”

“Then we owe it to her to stand by her side. So many things are going to change for her in the next several months…so many things have already changed for her…this is the time when she’s going to need our support most.” Nancy pulled Jeff close and wrapped her arms around his neck. “We’ll get through this…I promise.”

They held tightly to one another, neither of them knowing their daughter’s world was already crashing down around her.

~*~*~*~*~

When Max finally pulled up in front of the Deluca house, he was reluctant to get out. The ride over here had been in silence, causing him to continue to worry about Liz. He hoped talking to Maria would help, but then he remembered that Maria knew nothing about Liz’s connection to the three of them.

“Max, sitting here waiting won’t change the truth. Trust me…when it comes to Liz, Maria will handle it.”

“And if she doesn’t?”

“Max, she already knows about you, me, and Michael and she’s dealing with it. Liz has been her best friend almost all their lives…give her a chance.”

Max nodded and stepped out of his car. Isabel was right…waiting wouldn’t change the truth. He slowly walked up to the front door and knocked. He was surprised when the door finally opened and Michael stood in the doorway. “Making yourself at home?”

“The chicks are in the kitchen fighting again so I figured I might as well get the door.” Michael looked back at the kitchen door and sighed. “Dude, you have no idea how much tension there is in this house. I got lectured first thing this morning about the evils of premarital sex. To think, I always thought your mom was nosey. She didn’t have anything on Amy Deluca.”

“What’s the matter, Michael? Can’t handle two women?” Watching Michael sweat over Maria and her mom made Max relax a little.

“Not two psychotic ones!”

“Michael? Who are you talking to?” Amy hollered from behind the kitchen door.

“Shit! Max, you gotta get me outta here. Please?” Michael pleaded with him.

Max chuckled and then remembered why he was here. “Actually, I do need to talk to you and we really need Maria.”

“Ain’t gonna happen. Her warden’s watching her like a hawk.”

“Michael, it’s important. Can you please get them?”

“Fine, Maxwell…your funeral.” Michael stepped aside so Max could come in and then shut the door behind him. “I’ll be right back.” Michael was almost to the kitchen door when he heard something crash. “Are you absolutely sure this is necessary?” He asked Max.

Max was starting to worry himself, but he knew Liz needed Maria right now. “Unfortunately.”

Michael turned back toward the kitchen door and tapped gently. “Umm…Ms. Deluca…could I…umm…I need to talk to you.” As he saw the door start to swing open he jumped back, seriously afraid that she would be armed.

“What is it, Michael?” Amy questioned with her right foot tapping the floor.

“It’s my friend Max,” Michael gestured toward the front door, “he wants to talk to you.”

Amy strolled over to the front door with eyebrows raised. “So you’re Max?”

Max cleared his throat and stood straight up before answering. “Yes, I’m Max Evans. Nice to meet you.” He extended a hand out to be polite, but she just stared at it.

“I hear the two of you are from California, right?”

“Yes, ma’am.” Max smiled.

“Guess out there you think it’s right to marry an underage girl without her parents?” Amy asked.

“Excuse me?” Max looked from Amy to Michael and then back to Amy.

“An impressionable young girl like Liz didn’t stand a chance with a smooth talker like yourself, did she?”

“Ms. Deluca, I love Liz and…”

“Exactly what is it you boys want from these girls?”

Max saw Michael off to the side doing everything possible not to laugh. He imagined this was the same line of questioning Michael had received early this morning, but Max didn’t have time for it right now. “With all due respect, Ms. Deluca, Liz and I made a choice and in less than three hours she is going to be an adult. It’s not like she was only fifteen. Now, you can stand here and judge me as long as you’d like to, but I won’t apologize for loving Liz, and right now she’s upset and needs Maria. So I’m asking you, not for myself but for Liz, can Maria please come talk to her?”

“Yes, of course.” Amy answered instantly. “Maria!”

Maria came through the kitchen door looking furious until she saw Max. “Hey, Max. Is Liz ok?”

“I think she will be, but she really needs you right now. She’s upset and no one has been able to get through to her.”

Maria turned and faced her mother. “Mom, please? She’s been through so much.”

Amy Deluca nodded and waved her hand for them all to get out. “You’ve got one hour and then I want you back in this house, Maria. And so help me God, if you’re late I’m gonna hang you.”

“Got it! Thanks, Mom.” Maria shouted back after she was already out the door. She ran to the passenger side of Max’s car and leaned down. “Liz?”

“She hasn’t said a word in almost two hours.” Isabel said from the back seat.

“What happened? I know her parents were mad, but I figured they’d deal with it. What’d they do to her?” Maria asked angrily.

Isabel took a deep breath and shook her head. “It wasn’t them…some things happened…we all just really need to go somewhere and talk.”

Before Maria could say another word, Michael and Max were at the car and climbing in. “Where are we going?”

“For a ride. Just get in.” Michael said.

“But there’s no way we’re all going to fit in there.”

“Maria, just sit on Michael’s lap. We only have an hour and we still need to get Alex.” Max stated firmly.

“But he’s grounded.” Maria responded.

“Maria, when has that ever stopped you before?” Isabel asked, remembering the night they’d left for California.

“Good point.” Maria climbed in and sat on Michael’s lap. After several curse words and a scream or two, they were on their way.

Everyone tried to make small talk during the drive to Alex’s house, but no one could ignore Liz’s catatonic state. They reached Alex’s house and all watched as Maria snuck around the side of the house and through the bushes toward Alex’s window.

“Does she do this often?” Max asked, while watching her make her way around the house like a professional burglar.

“Yep.” Isabel didn’t feel the need to elaborate. It was Maria after all.

A few minutes later Maria reappeared with an obviously annoyed Alex in her grip. “Would you quit whining? Be a man.”

“Great! So now I’m not a man unless I’m breaking all the rules like you?” Alex retorted.

“That’s right! Now shut up and get in the car.” Maria waited for him to climb in and move Isabel into his lap before she got back in. “Ok, Tonto. We’re all accounted for.” Maria said to Max as he put the car in gear.

“What have you gotten me into now?” Alex inquired. He was happy to see Isabel, but Maria’s late night rendezvous always got him in more hot water.

“Everything’s ok, Alex…we all just need to talk.” Max answered as he pulled back onto the road that led to the pod chamber.

~*~*~*~*~

It was almost ten when Kyle walked into the Crashdown Café. Instantly he spotted Aaron over in a corner booth, sitting by himself and reading a book. Kyle knew things between them were still on shaky ground but he also knew he had to keep trying. He walked over and stood at the end of the booth until Aaron looked up.

“Kyle.” Aaron said simply and then looked back down at his book.

“Hey, man…how’s it goin’?”

Aaron wasn’t ready to pretend like they were friends again and he’d already had a bad day. Dealing with Kyle was the last thing he wanted right now. “Kyle, I know you’re trying to make things right, but it’s not gonna happen overnight. I’m tired and I came here for a little peace and quiet.”

“Well, I just thought…”

“Get the hell out of here!” Jeff yelled from the kitchen the instant he spotted Kyle. Within seconds he was in the front of the café and face to face with Kyle Valenti.

“Mr. Parker…hi.” He mumbled as he stepped back a few feet.

“Don’t! I don’t want to hear a word from you! Now get out!” Jeff pointed toward the door.

“But, Mr. Parker…”

“Son, you heard the man.” Jim said as he walked back into the room.

“Dad?”

Jim put his hat back on and laid a few bills on the counter to cover his order and a tip. “Mr. Parker has the right to refuse service at any time and I believe he’s exercising that right. Right, Jeff?”

“Yes, Sheriff. I would like Kyle to leave immediately.” Jeff was still fuming, but thankful that Jim was a reasonable man.

Jim tipped his hat at Jeff and smiled. “I guess we’ll be on our way. Please give Liz and Nancy my best.”

“Will do.”

“Come on, Kyle.” Jim put an arm around his son’s shoulders and led him outside.

Once outside, Kyle jerked away. “What the hell was that for?”

“I just saved your ass, Son. Mr. Parker asked you to leave…had you stayed, I would’ve had to take you in. So you see…I did you a favor.”

Kyle ran a hand through his hair and huffed in frustration. “I wasn’t gonna bother Liz…I just wanted to talk to Aaron.”

“Looked to me like he didn’t want to talk to you either.”

“Dad, how am I supposed to make things right if I can’t even go into the Crashdown?”

“Well that’s just it, Kyle…I don’t think you can make things right again. You screwed up, Kyle, and took everyone that cared about you down with you. Right now people just want you to keep your distance. My advice to you is to do just that. Give them all time to forget all the pain you’ve caused them and that includes Aaron. That boy looked at you like a brother…give him time to remember why.”

“That’s it? That’s your great advice? Give it time?” Kyle demanded.

Jim started to climb into his truck, but stopped to look back at Kyle. “You know that I love you, but you also know how disappointed I am in you right now. I’m your father and I’m having a hard time dealing with this…so imagine for a minute how those people must feel. Good night, Kyle.” Jim got in and drove away leaving Kyle standing there alone.

Kyle just stood there, letting his father’s words penetrate the surface. He knew how badly he’d screwed up, but no one would give him the chance to make things right. Finally, after several minutes of just standing there, Kyle looked through the café window and then left. He knew his dad was right…time was his only option.

~*~*~*~*~

Tess had been trying to find a way to approach her father about Sheriff Valenti’s accusations, but she couldn’t wait for the right moment anymore. Her father obviously knew more than he had ever let on, and now he’d used her to get his revenge. She stormed into her father’s study, sending the doors crashing into the wall as she shoved them. “We need to talk, Dad.”

Ed Harding met his daughter’s eyes and smirked. “Hello, Tessa. All you had to do was ask.” He set the papers in his hand down and walked around the desk to face his daughter. He sat on the edge of his desk and gestured toward a chair for her to sit in. “Have a seat.”

Although she was angry, she did as she was told. “I want answers, Dad. No more lies, but answers.”

Ed grinned and laughed out loud. “Sweetie, when have I ever lied to you? We’re a team, you and me, so why would I lie?”

“I’ve asked myself that same question over and over, but I couldn’t figure it out either.” She watched as her father’s shoulders relaxed and saw the tension start to fade away, but she wasn’t done yet. “That was until the Sheriff started dropping hints about you and your motives.”

Ed’s anger almost completely consumed him. Jim Valenti had never learned to keep his nose out of everyone else’s business. “I don’t have a clue as to what that man has told you, but I really don’t care. This conversation is over.” Ed walked back around his desk and took a seat.

“No. For once this conversation is not over…far from it. You’re my father…you’re supposed to love me unconditionally and keep me safe, but that’s not what you did, is it?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“I think you do. That’s one good thing about living in a small town like Roswell…plenty of people willing to tell everything they know.” Tess looked at her own father with hatred in her eyes. “You’ve been using me for years to settle an old score you had with Sheriff Valenti. Don’t even bother lying to me…I know the truth.”

“Oh really.” Ed looked up at her again with total disdain. “Why don’t you tell me what it is you think you know?”

Tess could feel the anger overwhelming her and the tears threatening to fall, but she wasn’t going to give him that satisfaction. “I know all about mom. I know she was dating Jim Valenti when she got pregnant with me, and they were going to be married.” Tess paused for a moment and then continued. “He was a good man and was going to do the right thing until he found out I wasn’t his.”

Damn this town! “So what. What does that have to do with anything?”

She could see she was getting to him. He couldn’t lie anymore. “I heard he challenged you to a fight, is that true?”

“What does any of this have to do with us?” Ed Harding growled.

“You were just going to leave her…pregnant and alone…that is until the word spread around town and your father made you marry her. You were going to abandon both of us.”

“But I didn’t!”

“That’s right, you didn’t. After Jim Valenti spilled your little secret, your father threatened to cut you off. You were an embarrassment, and the only way to change that was to marry my mother, but you never forgot whose fault it was, did you?”

Ed was looking toward his daughter, but his eyes seemed to look right through her. “I didn’t love her. I never loved her. My whole future was laid out before me and he took that away. My family wouldn’t look at me, and yet I was locked in a loveless marriage to save face with their friends. Then, he decided to be the white knight and comfort my girlfriend…Karen. My beautiful Karen. They got married right after graduation, so you and Kyle were born only a few months apart. He had the woman I loved and the son I always wanted…he had to pay.”

“So you used me?”

“I did what had to be done. When Karen got sick…I went to her. I told her I still loved her and swore that I would make Jim pay for ripping us apart. She was delirious…she told me she loved her family, but I knew better. I was the one she wanted!”

“How could you use your own daughter? I believed in you…I trusted you! You said all of this was for the best and I thought you meant it! I thought you wanted me to have a better life, but all you wanted was to ruin his son’s life!”

“It worked, didn’t it?” Ed stated coldly.

Tess felt ashamed, but she’d come too far to let everything be for nothing. “Congratulations, Dad…I’m just like you. You taught me to lie and cheat to get what I wanted…well I guess I turned out exactly the way you planned. Unfortunately, it wasn’t Kyle’s life you ruined, but someone else’s.”

“What are you talking about?” Ed snorted, calling her bluff.

“This isn’t Kyle’s baby and it’s not Aaron’s. I did everything you told me to, but both of them liked to be too careful, so I looked somewhere else.” Tess smiled in pure delight, knowing what the truth would do to her father.

“You’re making this up.” Ed was back on his feet now.

“Oh no, I’m not. This baby is Jacob Starling’s. I believe you do know Jacob; after all he is your best friend’s son. I wonder what will happen when the news gets out that I purposely got pregnant by Mayor Starling’s son after you told me to? Hmm…or I could just blackmail him…either way, you’re finished in Roswell. We both know he’ll bury you.”

“You’re lying! You’re a lying tramp just like your mother!”

“No, Dad…this is all you.” Tess turned and left her father’s study. Finally, she was in control.

~*~*~*~*~

The group of six climbed the rocks until they reached the pod chamber. Liz still hadn’t spoken, but she was walking on her own. When they came to the opening Maria thought about backing out, but her curiosity won out in the end. Together, they all stepped inside.

“Wow! This is awesome!” Alex said while he spun around taking it all in.

“This is where we were born.” Max started.

Alex stopped and took a closer look at the pods. “But there’s four of them?”

Michael walked closer and looked at the fourth broken sack. “I didn’t even notice that before.”

Maria stepped forward, still creeped out a little. “So what happened to the fourth one?”

Max looked at Liz who finally acknowledged him. When she shook her head he went on. “As I was saying…this is where we were born…me, Michael, Isabel, and…Liz.”

Alex was in his own world of shock, but he knew someone had to catch her. So when Maria started to hit the floor he threw himself under her, breaking her fall. “You know…it would be a lot better if you people could give me a little warning when you’re gonna do that.”


TBC

I'm finally back! Sorry it took so long but it's been storming too badly here for me to be on a computer Anyway, thank you for all of your wonderful feedback and especially for your patience Hopefully I'll be able to get back on my normal Tuesday posting schedule very soon! Ok, I'm gonna shut up now...on with the chapter...

CHAPTER 32

Tess sat alone in the dark on a bench in the park. She’d called Jacob and asked him to meet her, but that had been two hours ago.

“Tess.” A quiet voice said from behind her.

Instantly, Tess recognized the voice and slowly turned around. “I didn’t think you were coming.”

“I wasn’t going to, but I guess I had to know what the hell you might have to say to me after everything that’s happened.” Jacob said angrily and walked around to face her.

“I know I owe you an explanation…” Tess began.

“An explanation! You think that’s all you owe me? Christ, Tess! Do you have any idea what you’ve put me through?”

“I’m sorry, Jacob…I never meant to hurt you.”

“Too late! You know I believed in you, but I guess I wasn’t the only one, was I?”

Tess knew she had this and so much more coming to her, so she had no other choice but to sit and listen. “You have every right to be angry.”

“You’re damn right I’m angry! We talked about this, Tess…I warned you not to be your father’s puppet, but you didn’t listen. When we were together I thought it was just us…I thought I knew you. I honestly thought you’d never betray me.”

“Jacob,” she began again, “I betrayed myself! I know I hurt you. I know I hurt Kyle and Aaron. As bad as I feel about everything I’ve done to all of you, try and imagine what I did to myself!”

Jacob laughed sarcastically. “Don’t play the victim with me, Tess. Our families go way back and I know what a total bastard your father is…well, like father like daughter.”

Tess stood up and slapped him across the face before he could stop her. “I’m not my father! I hate him!”

Jacob rubbed his jaw and stepped back a few feet. “That much may be true, but you are his creation. You might not want to be like him, but you are. Good bye, Tess.” Jacob turned and started to walk away.

“The baby is yours, Jacob!” Tess called out and waited for him to turn back around. She knew he couldn’t walk away from her now. She watched him as he stopped, turned, and walked back to where she was standing.

Jacob looked her in the eyes and smiled. “Sorry, Tess, but I think you’ve worn that one out.” He turned away and kept walking out of the park with Tess screaming from behind him.

~*~*~*~*~

River Dog stood at his back door staring up at the stars. It was a beautiful night and the first time he’d felt any peace in years. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a bracelet. For him, the trinket was like a time machine taking him back many, many years. He’d made it for Claudia when they were just kids. Even now, he could see the smile on her face as he fastened it around her wrist. She’d said they would always be together, but that was a lifetime ago.

He rubbed the small stones with his thumb and then placed it back in his pocket. “I did it, my sweet Claudia. I fulfilled my vow to you…now I can let you go.” He whispered up at the night sky. “Rest peacefully now.”

He took one last look at the bright stars and went inside. Although he’d fulfilled his promise to Claudia, River Dog felt that somehow his past was far from over.

~*~*~*~*~

“I think she’s coming around.” Alex whispered, still holding Maria in his lap. “Do you guys think you could go easy on her this time? My legs are numb, so I don’t think my reaction time would be good enough to catch her twice.”

“Sorry, Alex.” Liz whispered from a few feet away.

Alex glanced in her direction at the sound of her voice. “Liz…you have absolutely nothing to apologize for.” He said in an attempt to put her worries at ease. Yes, the news had been a shock, but as far as he was concerned she was still Liz Parker, his best friend. She’d finally come out of the catatonic state she’d been in earlier, but she was still so pale. “Are you sure you’re ok?”

Liz shook her head and sat down on the floor. “I don’t know…I’m just so…scared.” She buried her face in her hands and started to cry. Within seconds, Max was seated at her side with both arms wrapped around her. His embrace was comforting, but with the knowledge of who she was, it was also terrifying.

Max could feel her trembling, and her attempt to pull away, but he refused to let go. They were meant to be together, and one way or another they would get through this. He wasn’t going to let her isolate herself from the only people that could help her. “I know you’re scared…but I’m right here. I’ll always be right here.”

Maria opened her eyes and looked straight into Alex’s face. Quickly, she sat up and spun around. “What happened?” Maria looked around at all of the strained expressions on the faces around her.

“Sorry my face is so scary to wake up to.” Alex said sarcastically, finally getting back on his feet. “Don’t worry…next time I’ll let you hit the floor.”

“Alex…I didn’t mean to…” Maria looked over and saw Liz crying in Max’s arms. “Ok seriously…what happened?” Maria scrambled across the floor until she was at Liz’s side too. “Liz? Liz, what’s wrong? What did you do to her? What did you do to me?” She questioned as she stared up at Michael.

“Me? Of course it would be me, right? Well I’m not taking the blame this time, sweetheart! You’re lucky I wasn’t passed out next to you!” Michael was always the calm one…always…so why did he feel like everything was spinning out of control? Had he even heard Max right? The entire situation seemed impossible! “Maxwell…you’ve got some explaining to do. You can’t just drop a bomb like that and expect everyone to just accept it.”

“I was planning on explaining, Michael. I was just waiting for Maria to wake up so I’d only have to say it once.”

“Fine…she’s awake now so start explaining.” He demanded and then looked at Maria. “I’d stay seated this time, princess.”

Maria shot Michael an evil glare and then turned back to face Liz. “I don’t understand…why is she crying? Why did I faint?”

“You don’t remember anything?” Max asked. When Maria shook her head no, Max took in a deep breath and let it out before starting all over again. “Well…earlier today,” Max paused. He was stalling, he knew that, but it was hard enough to tell everyone the truth the first time. “You see…”

“Max,” Isabel said calmly, “do you want me to tell them? I was here too.”

Max appreciated the offer, but somehow he felt like this was his responsibility. “Thanks, Iz, but I think I need to do this.” He took another deep breath and tried to muster up every ounce of courage he had within himself. “Today, Isabel, Liz, and me came out here to see the pod chamber and we had a…visitor.”

“A visitor? Out here?” Michael asked while folding his arms across his chest.

“Yes, Michael…a visitor. His name was River Dog and he knew things…things about us. He says he saw the ship crash and he admitted to being a close friend of Liz’s grandmother…Claudia.”

“Claudia? How did he know her?” None of this was making sense to Maria, so she didn’t understand why everyone was making all of this such a big deal. “Ok, you lost me again.”

“According to River Dog, he and Claudia both saw the ship crash and together they brought the pods here. He said they watched over us.”

“So that’s it? He watched over us? What does that have to do with what you said about Liz? He’s an old man, Maxwell…why should we believe him?”

“Because I believe him. Why would he lie, Michael? How could he know who we are if he wasn’t telling the truth?”

“Fine…I’ll take your word for it. Did he say whether or not there were any other survivors?” Michael asked eagerly.

“No. There were no other survivors. He said they watched over us, the four of us, in our incubation pods…as you can see there are four.” Max gestured up at the torn sacks on the wall.

“You mean there’s another one of you running around out there?” Maria felt her stomach lurch. She was still getting used to the reality that there were three of them walking around.

“Shut up, Maria.” Alex retorted.

“Yes, Maria…there’s another one of us, but we don’t have to go looking for the last one. We already know who it is.” Max felt Liz shift in his arms. Maria had been Liz’s best friend her entire life, and now he could understand her fear that Maria might not accept any of this. He ignored the others and focused on Liz. “Do you want me to stop?” He whispered in her ear.

Liz wanted more than anything to tell him yes. She wanted to scream stop, but waiting wouldn’t change the outcome…it was now or never. “No, Max…it has to be done.”

“Ok,” he kissed her cheek and stared at the group around them again. “According to River Dog, Liz is the last one. Isabel, Michael, Liz, and I make up a complete unit…the fourth pod is hers.”

Maria looked at Max for a moment in total shock, and then burst into a fit of laughter. “Wow, Max! For such a serious guy you really had me going! Liz the fourth! That’s a riot!”

“I’m not making this up, Maria…Liz is the fourth.”

Maria was about to argue, but then she saw Alex’s face. He wasn’t laughing and he appeared to be worried. “Alex?”

“Alex just found out too, Maria…I think he’s still coming to terms with it himself.” Isabel reached down and took Alex’s hand into her own. “I know the two of you don’t understand right now, but it is the truth.”

“How? How can that be? No, no, no, no, no! I’ve known Liz all my life and she’s not one of you pod people! She’s not!” Maria grabbed Liz’s arm and shook her. “Liz, tell them it’s not true!”

Alex let go of Isabel’s hand and walked over to Maria. He knelt down in front of his two best friends and took each of their hands. “Maria…I believe Max is telling us the truth, and Liz…nothing could ever change how much I love you. None of this matters…you’re still the same Liz Parker.” Alex smiled when Liz’s eyes met his. It was faint, but he could see relief in her eyes.

Maria just sat there taking everything in. Staring into Liz’s face, she accepted this to be true. “Liz…you know I love you, right? I’ll always love you. We’re the three musketeers.” Maria smiled a little uneasy, but the relief she saw on Liz’s face was all she needed. “Just promise me one thing…”

“Anything, Maria.” Liz responded, finally really feeling at ease.

“You have to swear you’re not gonna kill me with your death ray eyes when your powers come in.”

“I promise.” Liz said giggling as she wrapped her arms around her two best friends.

“Hey, speaking of powers…where the hell are yours?” Maria demanded.

Isabel grunted in frustration, still thinking back to the chauvinistic rules of mating that River Dog had explained to them. “Trust me, Maria…you don’t want to know.”

“But how, Maxwell? How is Liz the fourth? She’s human.” Michael commented.

“Well, he explained that. Apparently, Liz’s pod ruptured prematurely, so Claudia Parker took Liz to her son and asked him to raise her. Besides, Michael, we all look completely human.”

“Oh my God! Does that mean your parents don’t know what, I mean who you are?” Maria could almost picture Jeff and Nancy Parker’s faces. Always so calm and conservative…this was going to blow their minds!

“Liz’s parents already know.” Max replied.

“Dammit!” Maria had really wanted to witness their nervous breakdowns. After all, they accused her of being from another planet.

“Maria!” Alex and Isabel called out in unison and then smiled at each other.

Maria threw her arms in the air to call a truce. “Sorry…I was just…never mind.”

“So what do we do now, Maxwell?”

Max shook his head in frustration. “I don’t really know, but I can tell you we’ve got a rough couple of months ahead of us.”

“The baby?” Alex questioned.

Max shook his head again. “Yeah…things are about to get even more complicated. We have to figure out what to do because the whole town seems to know Liz, and we have no idea what to expect from her pregnancy.”

Maria sat there for a minute, letting her mind process everything. “We have to keep Kyle away from her or we’re dead.”

“But how?” Alex asked.

Michael saw the terrified look on Liz’s face, and for the first time realized she really was one of them. “We’ll find a way. Liz is one of us and it’s our responsibility to keep her safe.”

“What about us?” Maria demanded.

As much as he hated to admit it, Michael knew it would take all of them working together to get through this. Maria and Alex were part of this. Not only because they knew the truth, but also because they knew Liz better than anyone. She would need them now more than ever. “We all work together. Liz needs all of us.”

“Agreed.” Max stated.

“Agreed.” Isabel responded.

“Well…I guess we’ve got some work to do.” Maria smiled at Liz and scooted even closer to her. “All of us…together.”

The six of them gathered close and finished discussing everything River Dog had said. They had a lot to deal with, and they would do it together. Four might make a unit, but the six of them were a team.

TBC

I know, I know...I'm late, but it couldn't be avoided. It's been a crazy week and I'm trying to work on both fics and proofread for Amy, while dealing with a 9 yr old that wants all of my attention I just hope you all enjoy this chapter and a few of you may want to grab some tissues

A special thank you to my sister, Anna, for boosting my confidence, and to Amy for always being there when I need her. I love you both so much

On with the chapter...

CHAPTER 33

After three hours of discussions in the pod chamber, ranging from the extreme to the ridiculous, all Liz wanted to do was sleep. Everything that had happened over the last several hours was still sinking in, but she’d processed enough of the truth to be completely exhausted. Unfortunately, Liz knew there would be no sleeping tonight. Her head was spinning, and the last thing she wanted to deal with was a confrontation with her parents, but they had answers she needed. She didn’t want to talk anymore, much less end up in a screaming match with her parents, but it couldn’t be avoided…she needed to hear the truth from them. Time was limited for them now, so she didn’t have the luxury of waiting.

Max had been watching her out of the corner of his eye since they’d left the pod chamber, and he couldn’t help but worry. She was ghostly pale and he could see the day had taken its toll on her. He wasn’t about to risk anything happening to her or the baby, but he knew he couldn’t save her from her parents. He’d tried to convince her to wait for a little while before talking to them, but she was adamant that it had to be tonight. While he understood her reasoning, he still wished she would wait.

“I’ll be ok, Max.” Liz said quietly after several minutes of silence.

Max glanced her way and attempted to smile. “Did I say you wouldn’t?”

Liz smiled and let out a giggle. “Do you honestly think I don’t know you well enough to read what’s going on in your mind?”

“Ok…so tell me what I’m thinking?” He teased, happy to be lightening the mood.

Liz turned sideways in her seat and laid a hand on Max’s leg. “I know you’re worried about me and the baby, but you don’t have to be. As long as you’re by my side, everything will be fine.”

I guess she does know me too well. “Liz…I want to believe that everything will be ok, I do, but can you really blame me for worrying? I know everything between us has happened so quickly…”

“It was destiny, Max. You don’t fight destiny.” She smiled again. Every moment she spent with Max, she was more and more thankful she’d found him.

“I know that, Liz. I know you’re my destiny without a single doubt, but your parents may have something to say about that. I mean, I’m not even this baby’s father, but I want to be. Do you think they’ll accept that considering we’ve known each other for less than two weeks?”

Liz shook her head. “Max, you are my choice, not theirs. I love my parents, but I’m an adult…it’s time for me to make my own choices.”

Max kept his eyes on the road, but it was hard to concentrate. “It’s not just your parents I’m concerned about and you know it. Liz, I couldn’t handle it if something happened to you or the baby, and I’m worried that all of this stress is too much.”

“But Max…I have to deal with this,” she lowered her head and stared at her hands, “I should’ve known who I was a long time ago. They should’ve told me, but they didn’t. They knew I was dating Kyle and never once did they consider that I might need to know the truth so I could protect myself.”

“You don’t know that they didn’t. I know this has been a nightmare for you…just try to imagine what it’s been like for them.”

“I know.” Liz admitted, but continued to stare at her hands.

Max suddenly remembered something, which made him grin. “By the way…happy birthday, Liz.”

~*~*~*~*~

“They should’ve been back hours ago!” Jeff said angrily, pacing the café. “We never should’ve let them leave…or maybe we should’ve gone with them.”

Nancy was trying to remain calm. She agreed with Jeff, they should’ve been back hours ago, but agreeing with him openly would only add more fuel to the fire. “Jeff, I know you’re upset, but Liz is an adult now…you’re going to have to let her make her own decisions.”

“Mistakes is what you should’ve said!”

“Maybe, but they’re still her choices to make. We can’t hold on forever no matter how much we’d like to…she’s all grown up now.” Nancy wiped a tear from her cheek. She’d always known this day would come, but as much as she’d tried, there was no way to prepare to let your child go out on their own.

Jeff stopped pacing when he saw the solemn expression on his wife’s face, and walked over to the booth where she was sitting. “I’m sorry…I know I’m not making this any easier on you. I’m just…”

“Being a father.” Nancy finished for him.

Finally, he sat down beside her and laid an arm around her shoulders. “Yeah…I just don’t know how to let her go.”

“I know…me either.” Nancy rested her head on Jeff’s shoulder and they sat there silently, each of them terrified of what might come next. They were still lost in their own thoughts when they heard the bell above the door jingle.

Liz stood there for a moment before stepping any closer to her parents. She knew this needed to be done, but suddenly she felt like a scared child all over again. Sensing her uneasiness, Max reached down and held tightly to her hand, giving it a little squeeze so she’d remember she wasn’t alone.

“Ready?” He whispered.

“Never, but here goes nothing.” Liz took a step forward, but her parents remained seated. With each step her heart began to race faster but she kept going. She’d expected them both to be furious, but they were just sitting there, staring. There was no do you have any clue what time it is, young lady or Liz, you’re being irresponsible…just silence. “Hi, Mom, Dad.”

Jeff’s first instinct was to grab her and hold her close, but just like Nancy, he remained calm. “Did you kids have fun? Max, what do you think of our small town?”

Even Max was thrown off guard. “It’s very interesting, Sir. I’m sorry we’re so late.”

Jeff bit his tongue before speaking, making sure he didn’t lose his cool. “Well, we both remember what it’s like to be kids. No harm done.” Jeff stood up and reached for Nancy’s hand. He saw the questioning look in her eyes and he winked. He knew his daughter, and he was positive they wouldn’t even make it to the kitchen. “We just wanted to make sure you made it home safely, and now you have. Goodnight.” Jeff and Nancy hadn’t made it two steps before Liz called out to them.

“Goodnight? That’s it? You have nothing else to say to me?” Liz demanded.

Jeff and Nancy both turned around, but it was Nancy’s turn to speak. “I’m sorry, sweetheart. Happy birthday.” She stepped forward to kiss Liz’s cheek, and then she turned back around.

“Wait!” Liz couldn’t believe what was happening. This wasn’t like her parents…something was up. “I know the two of you didn’t stay up just to say goodnight…what’s going on?”

Jeff pretended to yawn. “Liz, your mother and I are both exhausted. Can we talk in the morning?”

Liz stood there in disbelief and looked at Max. He looked just as shocked as she did. “No…it can’t.”

“Lizzie…”

“I’m sorry too, Dad, but this can’t wait. I finally know the truth about myself and I think you’ve got some explaining to do.” She stated firmly. Whatever game they were playing, they were going to give her some answers.

“Truth?” Jeff questioned, praying he didn’t know what she was referring to. “What truth?”

Now Liz was getting angry. Not only had they kept her true identity from her for years, but now they were going to play dumb? “I know who I am…what I am. What I don’t know is how my parents could’ve lied to me for my entire life!” Liz stood there with a look of defiance, waiting for her parents to explain. This was not like finding out she was adopted, but instead finding out that she was not even from this planet.

Jeff and Nancy exchanged an uncomfortable look, both realizing exactly what their daughter was referring to, and knowing they couldn’t get out of this situation without finally answering the questions they’d been expecting since Claudia’s death.

Jeff released Nancy’s hand and stepped forward. “I’ll tell you whatever you want to know, but first I’d like to say something.” Liz nodded so Jeff continued. “Your mother and I have been wrestling with all of this since the night your grandmother told us. When she brought you to us we had questions, but we were so overjoyed to finally be parents that we let them go. Through the years I asked my mother several times if there was something we needed to know, but she always said no. Until…the night she died.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Liz asked, still angry and frustrated.

Jeff ran a hand through his hair and sighed. “I know that seems like an easy question for you now, but you have no idea how hard it was.”

“Why? Did you stop loving me when she told you? Is that why you’ve avoided this?” As the words left her lips she realized she really wasn’t their daughter.

“God, Lizzie! No! We’ve loved you for as long as we can both remember. You’re our daughter and nothing,” he stepped forward and grabbed her by the shoulders, “and I mean nothing, could ever change that!”

Liz fell into her dad’s open arms and stayed there for a minute just holding on. Then, reality hit her and she pulled away. “You still haven’t told me why you never said anything.”

“How were we supposed to tell you something like that? Good morning, Lizzie, here’s your breakfast. Oh, by the way you’re an alien?”

“Dad.”

“I’m not kidding, honey. Can’t you even try to imagine how hard it was for us not to tell you? We wanted to…we just didn’t know how.” Jeff sat back down in a booth feeling defeated.

Nancy took a step forward to face her daughter. “Baby, I know we’ve made mistakes and I know that we should’ve told you everything when we found out…we just didn’t want to lose our little girl. I’m not trying to make excuses…I just want you to see that our intentions were good.”

A part of Liz still wanted to scream at her parents for never telling her the truth, but she understood now why they hadn’t. How do you tell your child she’s different? It made perfect sense. Max had been right…she didn’t know how they’d dealt with the news and now it was too late to place blame. She stepped forward and held out her arms to her mother. “I’m just glad you still love me.” The instant she fell into her mother’s arms she began to sob.

Nancy held Liz close and motioned for Jeff to join them. “Always, baby…always.”

Jeff pulled his daughter close and then lifted her chin until their eyes met. “I know we didn’t handle things like we should’ve, but now we have each other, and I promise you we will figure all of this out. I love you, Lizzie.”

“I love you both so much.” Liz had been so caught up with her parents that she’d forgotten briefly that Max was with her. Quickly, she spun around to see him. He’d been watching as everything unfolded, and now he was smiling. “Max,” she rushed over to him, “I’m sorry.”

He kissed the top of her head and brushed the tears away from her eyes. “No apologies necessary.”

Jeff and Nancy had also forgotten that Max was with Liz. They exchanged worried glances now, not knowing how to explain all of this. Jeff stepped forward again and stared at Max. “I’m assuming you just heard everything?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“And yet you’re not running for the door…why?” Jeff asked suspiciously.

“Dad,” Liz had been relieved to finally have things out in the open, but it was her turn to explain. “Wow…I really don’t know how to say this.” Liz bit her bottom lip, trying desperately to find the right words. “Max is…actually…well considering everything else…”

“Spit it out, Lizzie.” Jeff was furious that she’d brought an outsider into all of this, and Liz was having a difficult time explaining.

“Ok…Mom, Dad…Max is just like me.” She saw the shock on both of their faces and blurted out the rest. “I found him in Opal Cliff, and then River Dog said we were destined to be together. Max knew Grandma Claudia, and well there’s four of us.”

“Oh,” Nancy sat back down when her knees started shaking. “Four? Max…there’s four and Claudia knew?”

“Yes, Ma’am…she knew.” Max said.

Jeff looked at Max, still a little skeptical. “And you can prove you’re like my daughter? Because if you can’t, that means you have other intentions that could cause her harm.” Jeff kept stepping forward until he was face to face with Max.

“If you need me to…I can prove it.” Normally, Max didn’t like showing anyone his gifts, but if it would help Liz, he would do it.

“Then prove it.” Jeff insisted.

Max stood there for a moment trying to figure out the best way to prove it without either one of Liz’s parents fainting. After realizing there was no easy way, he decided to be funny. He held his hand up toward the wall, and then chuckled when he saw it had worked. The alien pictures on the wall were now waving.

Jeff was growing more and more irritated. “What’s so funny?”

Max tried to hold back his smile as he pointed at the alien themes all over the wall. “You…um…just look up there.”

Jeff turned to look at the wall, and then stumbled backwards. “How’d you…?”

Liz elbowed Max in the side when he started laughing. “Well, Sir…you wanted proof.”

“Dad,” Liz started, while glaring at Max who couldn’t hold back his laughter, “you wanted proof, there’s proof. Trust me…there are more important things you need to hear.”

Jeff was actually smiling up at the wall too. “Good trick, son.”

“Thank you.”

“Hello!” Liz called out to get everyone’s attention. “Could we at least try to focus?”

Nancy stood back up and went to Liz. “Of course, sweetheart. What else is there?”

Liz sat down on a bar stool and began to explain. At first her parents were reluctant to accept Liz and Max’s plan, but soon they realized it was their only choice. “I wish there was another way…but there’s not. I have to get away from here, and I have to get away from Kyle. He can’t know the truth.”

“But, honey, he is the baby’s father.” Nancy pointed out.

Jeff shook his head in agreement with Liz. “She’s right. Kyle knowing would put her and the baby in danger…and she’s right about leaving. Everyone in this town knows her and since we don’t know what to expect, it’s too risky.” Jeff faced Liz again. “You’d better go pack if you want to be out of here by daylight.”

“I wish there was another way, but I can’t protect them here, Mrs. Parker. I promise you that Liz and this baby are my only priority…I won’t allow anything to happen to them.” Max tried to reassure her.

“Thank you, Max. I’m glad she has you.” Nancy said through her tears.

“You kids had better hurry…you know the breakfast crowd shows up early.”

Liz walked over to both of her parents and hugged them. “I know this is all really scary, but it will work out. I have complete faith in Max…he’ll take care of me. I love you and I’ll miss you so much.”

Nancy touched Liz’s cheek gently. “I guess you really are an adult now. Just remember…you’ll always be our little girl.”

Knowing that time was short, Max took Liz’s hand and led her toward the back door. “We’ll be in touch soon…promise.”

Jeff and Nancy watched as their daughter walked out of the only life she’d ever known. The next few months were going to be terrifying for their little girl and for the first time, they couldn’t make her fears go away.

~*~*~*~*~

“She has Max, why do you have to go?” Maria had been crying since the moment they’d reached her house.

Michael couldn’t face her, not now, so he continued to shove all of his clothes back in his duffle bag. “Because we don’t know what to expect. Max thinks there should be two of us there in case something goes wrong. We’re in new territory here…we have no clue what to expect.”

Maria blew her nose again. “So that’s it? You’re just leaving?”

“I have to. They need me, Maria.” Michael responded.

“What about…us?”

Michael had to stay strong. It tugged at his heart to hear Maria like this, but right now his duty was to protect Liz. “There really is no us. We barely know each other and I’m sure you’ll forget about me after I’m gone.” The words hurt just saying them.

Maria had been crying enough. She jumped up from her bed and spun Michael around to face her. “Look me in the eyes and tell me you feel nothing for me.” Maria insisted.

Michael let his eyes roam everywhere except Maria’s face. If he looked at her right now he’d never be able to go. “It’s not about my feelings for you,” He pulled out of her grasp and looked out the window, “it’s about protecting Liz…and you.”

“Me?”

“Yes…you. Do you really think it’s safe to be with me, Maria?” Inside his heart was breaking.

“I don’t care if it’s safe! Michael, I want you in my life.”

Michael was ready to give in, but then he saw the headlights outside. “I’m sorry, Maria, but you’ll be better off without me. I have to go.” Michael was at the bedroom door before he turned around. “Maria Deluca…you’re one of a kind and I’ll never forget you. You’re the only person that ever made me feel human. Bye, Maria.” With that he walked out, leaving a sobbing Maria behind him.

~*~*~*~*~

They headed toward the horizon as the sun began to rise in the sky. Liz was already missing her parents, but she knew this was for the best. She looked over at Max expecting to see a worried expression, but instead he appeared to be calm. Max was her pillar of strength and she knew it would take him to get her through this. Finally, she glanced in the rearview mirror at Michael. He hadn’t said a word since they’d left home, and Liz had a pretty good idea why. She could see how much he cared about Maria, but she knew he’d never admit it to her. He would watch over her with Max and keep her safe, but he would never let anyone know how much he was hurting. Liz made a vow to herself that once this was all over with she would find a way to bring Michael back to Maria.

By the time they turned off the main road and onto the dirt road ahead, the sun was in the sky illuminating the reservation like a spotlight. Max drove along until they reached the place he believed to be River Dog’s, and he stopped. They all climbed out of the car together and walked up to the door. Slowly, Max raised his hand and was about to knock when the door opened.

River Dog stepped through the door and looked at the rising sun. “I’ve been expecting you since before dawn.” He stated casually.

“Then you know why we’re here?” Max asked.

River Dog looked at the three exhausted young people in front of him. “Yes.” He turned and walked back through the door. He waited for them to follow, but they didn’t. Looking back at them, he smiled. “You’ll be safe here. Welcome home.”


TBC

I'm finally here and I want to start by saying thank you for all of your patience. Between being sick and the constant severe thunderstorms, it's been nearly impossible to write. I'm trying to stay on a schedule, but it just doesn't seem to be working Also, I want to thank ALL of my readers, especially those of you that have been with me from the beginning and those of you that have been very loyal in leaving feedback! I appreciate everything you've all had to say

In this chapter there are 2 songs by a friend of mine, Johnny Bulford. He's an up and coming country singer that I truly hope will make it all the way. He was kind enough to allow me to use his music, so I'd like to say a special thank you to him and his family. All of his music is copyrited and samples of his music are available on his website (the link is in my signature) Obviously since his music is not available in stores, it can only be used with permission from him. The first song is "Bout You" & the second is "Only You"

Enough talk, on with the chapter...

CHAPTER 34

4 Months Later…

“So…have you heard from them?” Maria asked Isabel casually, as she took a bite of her sandwich. She didn’t feel like eating, hell she didn’t feel like doing anything, but Alex had been harping on her to take better care of herself.

Alex and Isabel exchanged sympathetic glances, and then both turned to face Maria. “Not much.” Isabel responded, wishing she could avoid this conversation. “Just the occasional cryptic message from Michael to let me know they’re doing ok.”

“Oh,” Maria managed, trying to choke back the tears that were threatening to fall. It had been four months, but to Maria it felt like just yesterday. At first she hadn’t understood the deep loss she felt, but then she realized she was in love with Michael Guerin. Their time together had been brief, but it had been enough to capture her heart. “He never asks about me…does he?”

Isabel thought out her answer before responding. This was a classic case of damned if you do, damned if you don’t and she didn’t want Maria to kill the messenger. “He’s mentioned you,” Isabel muttered under her breath.

It was obvious to Maria how uncomfortable this conversation was for Isabel, but she wanted to know…she needed to know. “Isabel, you have to tell me what he said…you know I’m going crazy.”

“I just don’t think…”

“Dammit, Isabel! What if Alex was the one who had left? Wouldn’t you want to know everything you possibly could?”

The last thing Alex wanted was to be part of this conversation, but it wasn’t right to let Isabel take the brunt of it. “Maria…yes, Michael’s asked how you are, but he’s adamant that you move on with your life and forget he ever existed.”

“How am I supposed to do that, Alex? Huh? You tell me how you would let go of Isabel, so I’ll know exactly what I need to do!” Maria knew it wasn’t Alex and Isabel’s fault, but she was hurt and angry and had to take it out on someone.

Alex lowered his head not knowing what else to say. He knew Maria was hurting, but there was nothing he could do to stop it. Their lives had become so complicated, and now they had to play with the cards they’d been dealt.

Isabel reached over and touched Alex’s arm gently. Alex tried to take on the weight of everyone around him and watching Maria in pain was more than he could bear. “Look, Maria…we all want this to be over with, but we have to be patient.”

“I just don’t understand why we can’t go out there.” Maria was still holding what was left of her sandwich, but she’d managed to rip it into small pieces without even knowing. She frowned at the mess she’d made and shoved the contents into a bag.

“Because we can’t, Maria!” Alex stated forcefully. “Do you think we don’t miss them too? We do, but it’s just too dangerous to go out there. What if Kyle followed us, or someone saw us out there? I know it’s been a long time, but if we destroy everything they’ve worked for now, then it will have been in vain!”

Maria knew he was right…logically; unfortunately her heart didn’t exist on a logical level. “But graduation is this weekend! Liz has waited her whole life for this and now she’s gonna miss it!” Maria looked around the quad at all their fellow seniors passing around yearbooks, and taking pictures of each other. It was exactly the way the last week of high school should be, but not in her world…at least not anymore.

“It can’t be helped, Maria. We’re just gonna have to do our best to get through it. We have no choice.” Alex didn’t dare admit out loud that he’d been thinking about Liz all the time, and had almost driven out to the reservation on countless occasions.

“That’s it!” Maria hopped off the brick wall she’d been sitting on and gathered her things together. “I’m sick of hurting, I’m sick of worrying, I’m sick of being patient, and I’m sick of all this alien bullshit!” Maria dropped her purse and Isabel leaned down to pick it up. When Maria met Isabel’s eyes, she regretted everything she’d just said. “I’m sorry, Isabel…I didn’t mean that.” Now she felt totally ashamed.

“I know.” Isabel said quietly, understanding where Maria was coming from.

“I think I just need to be alone right now.” She flashed a small smile at Alex and Isabel, hoping they wouldn’t take her hateful words to heart.

Isabel shook her head and smiled in return. “It’s ok…we understand. Just know we’re here.”

“I do.” Maria smiled again and walked away.

Isabel sighed as she watched Maria. “Do you think she’ll be ok?”

Alex sighed too and put his arm around Isabel. “She’ll be fine. She’s hurting right now, but Maria’s strong…she’ll get through this.”

“I hope so.”

~*~*~*~*~

Liz had come to love living on the reservation. It was so peaceful and always so quiet. River Dog didn’t believe in modern conveniences so there was no television or phone to disrupt the silence. Six months ago the isolation would’ve driven her crazy, but now it was exactly what she needed.

The sun was shining brightly in the sky, but out here the heat didn’t seem to be as bad as it was in town. Liz spent many hours sitting in this spot on the porch. The rocking chair was comfortable, the breeze was nice, and Liz was able to enjoy a cup of tea and a book without any distractions. Max spent whatever free time he could find studying the cave walls River Dog had showed them, and Michael spent his time driving River Dog crazy with his never ending questions. Liz and Max still spent a great deal of time together, but Liz savored the time she spent alone.

Subconsciously, a gentle hand rested on her enlarged stomach as she opened her favorite book and began to read. She had barely made it through a few pages when a sound startled her. She looked up and saw River Dog headed in her direction with a much faster pace than she was used to. For a brief moment she was worried, but then she realized the expression on his face was one of irritation, not fear. Liz had a pretty good idea what was wrong, but she hid her smile and asked anyway.

“Is everything ok?”

River Dog finally reached the porch and took a seat next to Liz. “I have finally come to the conclusion that the boy never rests. His questions are endless, and while I appreciate an inquisitive mind…I think he’s crossed the line into obsession.”

Liz couldn’t stop the giggle that escaped her, which made the old man smile. “I know he’s a handful, and somewhat of an acquired taste, but he’s just so eager to know as much about where we come from as he possibly can.” Liz was well aware of the fact that Michael had kept River Dog on his toes for weeks. She’d thought about intervening until she’d realized the old man enjoyed the company.

River Dog smiled an easy smile and allowed himself to relax in the chair. “How are you feeling today, Elizabeth? You look well.”

“I’m doing very well. The baby’s been extremely active today, but that’s nothing to complain about. When she moves around a lot, I know she’s safe and healthy.” Liz patted her belly gently, and then faced River Dog again. “I’m still scared with all the uncertainty, but I’m excited at the same time.” She confessed.

River Dog shook his head as he rocked in the chair. “It is a joyous time. Your Grandma Claudia would’ve loved to see this day.”

Liz had grown quite close to River Dog over the last four months, and she’d come to notice the sadness in his eyes at the mention of her grandmother. They’d never been romantically involved, obviously not by River Dog’s choice, but there was such a tender affection in his voice when he spoke of her. “I believe she would’ve been happy for me. At night when I look up at the stars I know she is still watching over me. I know she would’ve been grateful that you have given us a safe home.”

“I was glad for the company.” He admitted.

“Maybe, but you’ve done so much for us…I don’t know how we could ever repay you.”

“As long as you live a safe, happy life then I shall consider the debt repaid. I’ve enjoyed every moment I have spent with you and the others…I have no regrets.”

Liz stopped rocking and reached for his hand. “You are truly a wise man, and I’m honored that you would open your heart and your home to us.”

“It is you that has opened your heart and become my home.” River Dog smiled easily and together the two of them began to rock again.

~*~*~*~*~

Tess gathered the large laundry bag into her arms, and then balanced it on her hip. She was exhausted and prayed for sleep, but there was too much for her to do today. The hot Roswell sun was beating down on her, causing her to feel a little queasy, but she took her laundry, closed her car door, and headed into the laundromat anyway.

Kyle witnessed the scene from across the street and immediately felt sorry for her. She’d made too many mistakes to try and keep score, but she’d also lost everything and everyone she’d ever loved…which placed them in the same position. He waited for the mid-afternoon traffic to create an opening, and then made his way across the street. He made it in just enough time to reach the door and hold it open for her. “You need some help with that?”

“No thank you, Kyle, but thanks for holding the door.” As she stepped through the door, she lost her balance and started to stumble, but Kyle was able to catch her. Unfortunately, her laundry hadn’t been so lucky and was now sprawled out across the entranceway. She pulled free of Kyle’s hold and bent down to collect her belongings, blushing when a man about three feet away began to laugh.

Kyle saw her embarrassment and stood up. “What? You have nothing better to do than to laugh at a pregnant woman?” Kyle asked angrily. The man just stood up and went to check on his own clothes.

“Thank you, but you don’t have to defend me.” Tess said.

“I know I don’t have to do anything, but I felt like doing it…ok?”

Tess just shook her head and stood up once she was sure she’d gathered everything together. “Look…I appreciate your kindness, but wouldn’t it be easier to just ask me for whatever it is you want?”

Kyle looked at her with hurt in his eyes. After all, he was just trying to be nice. “I don’t want anything…I only stopped to help because you look dead on your feet.”

“What a nice way of telling me I look like shit.” She said sarcastically.

Kyle took in a deep breath and let it out again. “Could we maybe start this conversation over? I’m starting to feel like a real asshole when all I wanted to do was help.”

“Why would you want to help me? We both know you don’t give a damn about me…no one does.”

“Because, Tess…I have a good idea what you’re going through.” Kyle stuffed his hands in his pockets and stood there waiting for her to respond.

Tess looked at him and saw the pain in his eyes. “Maybe you do…but after what I put you through why would you want to be nice to me?”

“I’m not going to lie and say you didn’t hurt me, but, Tess, it does take two. I was just as responsible for everything that happened as you were. Yes…you tried to use me, but I’m the one who broke Liz’s heart, not you. I created my own problems and I’m learning to accept responsibility for them.” Kyle paused to think of Liz. “I had an amazing girlfriend and yet I wanted to be seduced by you. I thought it would make me feel like more of a man, but instead I lost everything I ever cared about.” He looked into her eyes now. “Sound familiar?”

“Yeah…I guess you could say that. I lost everything…my father, my self respect, but the worst part was that I lost Aaron.” A tear slid down her cheek, but she immediately brushed it away. “I really didn’t know what my father was up to…but I wanted to please him so badly that I allowed myself to become his own little puppet on a string.”

“We’ve all made mistakes, Tess…not just you. I really am sorry that you lost everything. Despite what you might think of yourself, you didn’t deserve this kind of life. I can’t imagine how I’d feel if my own father had used me in such a callous way. You may have gone along, but he was the parent and he was supposed to protect you.”

Tess huffed. “Turns out he was the one person I needed protection from.”

Kyle glanced down at his watch and realized he needed to go. “I’m sorry, Tess…I wish someone had seen what he was doing, but I guess we only see what we want to see. I have to go now, but maybe I’ll see you later.” He turned and headed for the door. Talking to Tess had actually helped him too…he had amends of his own to make.

“Kyle?”

“Yeah?” He turned his head back to glance at her.

Tess stood there for a minute trying to find the right words, but they seemed to be failing her. “I just…well umm…thank you…for the kind words. I didn’t realize how badly I needed to hear them.”

“It’s ok…like I said, I understand what you’re going through.”

“Kyle, one more thing.”

“Anything.”

“I hate to ask you this, but you’re the only one I can ask.” She watched him nod and then continued. “Have you heard anything about Aaron?”

He knew the truth would bring her more pain, but there had been enough lies. “All I really know is that he went back home…and he doesn’t want to see either of us again.” Now he saw the pain in her eyes. “I do believe that you loved him, so I’m sorry. We really screwed up, Tess.”

“I know.” She said quietly.

Kyle turned to leave again, but glanced at her over his shoulder one more time. “I know everything has fallen apart, but if you need a friend…I’m here.” He smiled and walked out the door.

~*~*~*~*~

Maria sat alone in her room holding her guitar. Since the night Michael had left she’d written many songs and kept her guitar close to her. She knew Alex and Isabel’s hearts were in the right place, but they had each other…they didn’t understand how she felt.

She strummed her fingers over the strings and began to sing…

Last night I knew I needed to get some sleep
But at about 3am I knew it wasn't happening
I can't get any shut eye baby what am I supposed to do
I'm slowly loosing my health look at what you've put me through

I can't stop thinkin bout you
Oh I can't stop dreamin about you
And I wish that you would give it another chance
I've tried but baby I just can't
Stop thinkin about you

Too many thoughts keep runnin through my head
I'm startin to wonder why I even got in bed
Your memory has been just too hard to shake
I know you're gone but baby you just won't go away

I can't stop thinkin bout you
Oh I can't stop dreamin about you
And I wish that you would give it another chance
I've tried but baby I just can't
Stop thinkin about you

Maria stopped playing as the tears poured down her cheeks. She couldn’t stop missing Michael. She’d tried, but nothing seemed to work. How could a guy she barely knew make her feel this way? She was about to start playing again when she heard the soft knock on the door. Gently, she laid her guitar down on her bed and said, “Come in.”

Amy Deluca smiled at her daughter as she pushed the door open, but it was obvious that Maria had been crying again. “Hi, Baby. Mind if I come in and talk?”

“Come on in. I don’t know how great I’ll be at carrying on a conversation right now, but I can at least listen.”

Amy closed the door, knowing Jim would be here any minute and she didn’t want to be disturbed. “I heard you playing before I came in,” she gestured toward Maria’s guitar, “was that a new song?”

Maria shook her head. “Yep. At least getting my heart broken has helped my writing. Something good’s gotta come out of it, right?”

“Maria,” Amy walked over and sat down next to Maria on the bed, “I heard you up late again last night.”

“So I’m a night owl…what’s wrong with that?” Maria replied casually.

This was going to be harder than Amy thought. “I heard you crying, sweetie. Do you want to talk about it?”

Maria stood up and put her guitar back in the case Jim had bought her last Christmas. “What’s there to talk about? I got dumped…happens every day.”

Amy knew her daughter was strong, but she’d never seen her in this much pain before. “Maria, I know you’re hurting…I just want you to know I’m here. You don’t have to go through this alone.”

Maria was about to ask her to leave, but she couldn’t deny it any longer…she needed someone. She fell to her knees and laid her head in her mother’s lap as she started to cry. “It hurts so much, Mom! I just want it to stop, but it won’t!”

“Shh.” Amy brushed hair out of Maria’s face and just let her cry for a few minutes. When her loud cries turned into quiet sobs, she finally spoke. “I know it hurts, honey, but if it didn’t hurt…it wouldn’t be worth having.”

Maria raised her head and looked into her mother’s eyes. “But when does it stop hurting so much?”

That was a hard question to answer…she didn’t want Maria to think she’d be miserable forever. “I wish I could say it does stop, but it doesn’t. It may get easier with time, but every time you fall in love again…there will eventually be tears.”

“Great! Love sucks!” Maria declared, and then put her head back in her mother’s lap.

“Maria,” Amy lifted her daughter’s head so she could look at her, “don’t ever give up on love in spite of what pain it might bring…our pain makes us real.”

“It just hurts so much.” Maria sobbed.

“I know, baby…I know.” Amy held Maria for a long time, not wanting to let go until she was certain Maria would be all right.

~*~*~*~*~

Michael sat in the cave where the sounds echoed and realized it probably wasn’t the best place to play his guitar. Unfortunately, not even Max knew he played and he preferred not to tell him. It made him feel vulnerable and weak, and right now Max needed him to be strong. He spent a lot of time out here alone trying to deal with the pain he felt inside. He’d never felt this way before, and somehow playing his guitar and sinking into his own world seemed to help.

He knew Maria played the guitar too. She’d mentioned it several times on their trip back to Roswell when he would tease her for singing along with the radio. Sometimes when he played, he could almost feel her fingers on the strings along with his own…that’s when he didn’t feel so alone. He’d never imagined that he could miss someone or something so much, but being away from Maria was tearing him apart inside. He’d actually written his first song out here in this cave, while wallowing in his pain. Whenever he missed her the most, he would sing it.

Before you, I had a heart of stone.
And before you I never let anyone get close.
But you broke down those walls.
One kiss from you, baby that was all.
And I knew by the way I felt,
I would never love any one else Oh it's true

Only you, Oh Only you, Oh Only you, Oh Only you

Life was hard full of unrequited love,
and breaking hearts seemed all I was capable of.
And I feared that I would never be tamed.
I didn't know my life was about to change
How many have loved me this way
but made me feel the same oh it's true

Only you, Oh only you, Oh only you, Oh only you, Oh only you

I knew it from the start
you completely stole my heart oh it's true

Only you, Oh only you, Oh only you, Oh only you Oh only you Oh only you

Michael’s playing was interrupted when Max came barreling into the cave, breathing fast and in total panic. “Max, what’s wrong?”

Max could barely catch his breath long enough to speak. “It’s time…baby…time for…baby…need Iz…”

Michael jumped to his feet, letting his guitar crash onto the floor. “It’s ok, Max. You go and stay with Liz…I’ll get the others.”
“Ok…hurry.” Max ran out of the cave and headed back toward the house, leaving Michael standing there alone.

He knew his first priority should be Liz, but he couldn’t help it. Only one thought kept passing through his mind…Maria

TBC

I know that I have left you all hanging for quite some time, but I am finally back. This chapter was extremely hard to write...partially because I was psyching myself out and partially because I'm not ready for this to be over Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. I would like to thank each and everyone of you for your feedback and support as I made my way through this story. Especially those of you that wouldn't let me quit! I would love to be able to thank each one of you individually, but there are so many of you that I wouldn't know where to start. I can only hope you all know the love and appreciation I feel for you. Hopefully I will be posting the Epilogue early next week, but I will keep you informed if something comes up.

I do need to send out a special thank you to one of the best friends I have ever had. Amy, you have been a Godsend to me and I hope you know how much I cherish you. I wouldn't have made it through this chapter if you hadn't written it with me, so I owe you so much. This time you were my muse I love ya bunches!!!

Well, here it goes...

CHAPTER 35

Michael stood there, hands shaking, trying to dial Maria’s number. He knew he should probably call Isabel or Alex first, but he’d waited four months for the chance to hear Maria’s voice…he wasn’t waiting another second. When the phone started ringing he thought about hanging up. After all, he’d told Maria he was no good and to move on…what if she had? Before he had the chance to hang up like a coward, someone answered.

“Hello.” Amy Deluca yelled into the phone, while trying to balance the bags of groceries in her arms.

Michael sat there in silence, sure she would scream the second she heard his voice. “Umm…yes…”

“Ok, pal. You’re gonna have to spit it out or I’m hanging up.”

Again, Michael thought about hanging up, but then he heard a voice in the background. “Mom, who is it?”

“I don’t know, but could you find out before I drop everything?” Amy pleaded with her daughter.

Maria giggled at the sight of her panicked mother and took the phone. “Hello.” She practically laughed out.

He knew he had to speak…this was his chance. “Maria.” He whispered.

The instant she heard his voice, the tears welled up in her eyes. Unfortunately, as much as she had missed him, her anger came straight to the surface too. “What the hell do you want?”

It was exactly the reaction he’d been expecting. Obviously, Maria had moved on and he had no right to be angry…but he was. “Well it’s nice to know you haven’t lost your wonderful manners. How’s the nunnery?” Why is it that Maria Deluca could get him this angry so quickly?

“At least a nunnery would be better than ever having to see you again!” She shot back, immediately regretting her words. “Michael…I’m sorry. You have to know I didn’t mean that.”

“Yeah…I know. Guess I deserved that and a whole lot more. Look, I didn’t call to hurt you or piss you off…Max wanted me to call…”

“Oh, so now Max has to make you call me?” Her fuse had been reignited.

Wanting to strangle her through the phone, Michael had to take a few deep breaths before responding. “Maria! I don’t have time to fight with you right now, but I promise we will finish this conversation later! Now, I’d like you to call Alex and Isabel so that the three of you can get to the reservation immediately!” He was sweating, Michael realized. He was sweating, his fists were balled up, and all he wanted to do was scream! Yep, he’d definitely missed her these last few months. When there was no response on the other end of the line, he was sure she’d fainted…again. “Maria? Maria!”

“I’m here.” She mumbled. “Is it time?”

“Yes, it’s time. Liz is in labor and we need Isabel. I’m sure Liz would want you and Alex here for support…she’s really missed you. Will you come?” Liz did need Maria, but he was asking for himself too.

Maria pulled out her Cedar Oil, took in a deep breath, and let it out. “Yes…we’ll be there soon. I already know where Isabel and Alex are, so it shouldn’t take us too long. I’ll get out of here right now.”

“Ok…see ya soon.” Michael hung up the phone quickly, so Maria wouldn’t hear how happy he was.

Maria did a little dance around the kitchen, laughing and crying all at once. She grabbed her cell phone and her mom’s keys, and was out the door within seconds. She raced down the streets of Roswell, well at least as fast as the Jetta would go, praying to herself that Sheriff Valenti was nowhere to be found. He was the last person she wanted to see right now, except for Kyle that is. Lucky for her, she made it safely to the Crashdown, threw her car into park, and ran through the double doors. She spotted them instantly in a corner booth, cuddling and giggling, which made her heart ache for Michael even more. She wished she could just let them be, but the clock was ticking.

Alex and Isabel saw her approach them, and each smiled. “Hey, Maria.” Alex said while tickling Isabel, causing her to giggle and squirm in the booth. “What’s up?”

“A lot! I hate to break up this little love fest, but Liz is in labor and we all need to get there…now!”

Alex didn’t hesitate for a second. He grabbed their check and headed for the counter. He was greeted by Mr. Parker, which only made the moment more uncomfortable. Do I tell him or do I wait? “Umm…Mr. Parker?”

“Yeah, Alex?”

“Well…you see…” Alex started to tell him, but Maria beat him to it. She’d grabbed Isabel’s arm and was leading her out of the café.

“Sorry, Mr. P, but Liz is in labor. Gotta run! We’ll call as soon as we know something!” Maria didn’t wait for a response. She grabbed Alex’s arm too, and within seconds they were on the road heading toward the reservation. They left behind them a stunned father.

~*~*~*~*~

Liz knew it had been almost an hour since Max had raced out of here to find Michael, but there was still no sign of him. The contractions were getting stronger, and with each one Liz felt her energy draining. River Dog sat by her side, holding her hand, but she wanted Max.

“Where is he? He…should’ve…been back…by now.” The contractions were getting closer together, and now she was afraid.

As she lay on the bed, screaming with every contraction, River Dog continued to hold her hand. “It will be alright, Elizabeth. You must stay calm.” He said gently.

River Dog’s words were soothing, but the pain shooting through her abdomen was almost more than she could take. When she felt another contraction ripping through her body, she screamed again. She tightened the muscles in her body in hopes that it might ease the pain, but nothing seemed to be working. Liz had known childbirth would not be easy, but now she had an overwhelming feeling that something was wrong.

River Dog had never felt more helpless. He’d come to love Liz, Max, and Michael like family, and watching Liz in distress was unbearable. “The more you fight, the more it will consume you.” He continued to hold her hand and wipe the sweat from her forehead, knowing it was all he could do.

“I’m scared!” Liz cried out.

“You must try to relax, Elizabeth. Take deep breaths in and out to ease the pain.” He’d watched many births in his lifetime, but he was not a foolish man…this one was different and far beyond his comprehension.

Finally, Liz felt the contraction pass, and her body ease. She tried to catch her breath, but between the pain and fear, it was impossible. Liz had believed she would have at least another month until the baby was born; she wasn’t prepared for this, not yet. She’d thought she had more time, but it was happening now and she was powerless to stop it. She looked up at River Dog, praying for answers, but he seemed to be lost in deep thought.

“Elizabeth, listen to me. This last contraction was ten minutes from the one before it,” He thought back to the births he had witnessed before, and while young Liz was in great pain, he had to believe she and her child were fine. “This is normal, so we still have time. No worries, my child, Max will be with you in time.”

This last contraction was ten minutes from the one before it. Ten minutes! He had to be kidding…the contractions seemed to be right on top of each other. Her eyes searched the room again for any sign of Max, but it was still just the two of them.

“Why isn’t Max back yet?” Liz was starting to panic. She knew deep down that Max would never leave her or let her down, but right now she needed him and he wasn’t here.

Honestly, River Dog didn’t know what was keeping Max, but he would stay with Liz as long as she needed him. “I’m certain he will be back soon. He may have had trouble finding Michael, but he will be by your side soon.”

He watched as she shook her head and slowly closed her eyes. The color was draining from her face, and she was sweating profusely. He continued to wipe the sweat from her face with a wet cloth, hoping to keep her comfortable. With great sympathy, he brushed the hair away from her face, and placed a hand behind her head to raise it. He reached for the small chips of ice to moisten her lips. “Elizabeth, please take this…it will help.”

Liz did as he said and took the small chip of ice from him. The moment she placed it on her tongue, she felt it begin to melt. She tasted the cool water as it slid down her throat. She had just lain back down when she felt the pain start to well up in her lower back and abdomen again. “Now I understand why women beg for drugs.” She attempted to smile at River Dog, but then she felt the full force of the contraction begin to pulse through her. Instinctively, her hands went to her stomach and she tensed up again.

River Dog watched as Liz’s body tensed. She moved around in the bed with such great pain, that sparks began to fly from her fingertips. He stood there in awe, watching everything that was unfolding before him. In all of her time here on the reservation she had never shown any signs of her gifts to come, but in this moment they were starting to emerge. Now it was his turn to pray for Max’s swift return. His prayers were answered quickly when Max came running into the small house.

“How is she?” Max asked. He was out of breath and appeared to be exhausted after his swift run through the desert heat.

River Dog breathed a sigh of relief and smiled at the young man. “She is ok, but she’s been asking for you.” River Dog pulled Max aside before letting him go to Liz. “Son, I am worried. I’ve witnessed many births in my time, and while I know this one is different…I fear for young Liz. She is in a great deal of pain and the color has started to drain from her face.” He reached up and rubbed a tired hand along his forehead. “I don’t know how much help I can be to you, but I am here…until the end.”

Max smiled at River Dog’s kind words and thanked him before making his way to Liz’s side. “I’m here, Liz…everything is going to be fine.”

Panting, Liz tried to speak. “I’m…scared.” She tried to take another deep breath, but it was difficult. “Something’s…wrong…I feel it.”

“Liz, I promise I won’t let anything happen to you. You and the baby will be ok…you have my word.” He was frightened too, but he wasn’t about to let Liz see that.

“Where’s…Michael…and…the others?” Her breath was slowly coming back to her, but part of her still felt as if she was suffocating.

“I’m not sure, but they’ll be here soon.” He turned to face River Dog and gestured for him to look outside for Michael. Max saw him nod, so he turned his focus back to Liz. “Wow! So this is really happening…you know we haven’t agreed on a name yet.” One way or another, he would do his best to keep Liz’s thoughts away from her fear.

~*~*~*~*~

River Dog ran out of the small house just in time to see Michael making his way up the hill. “Michael!”

Michael could see, even from a distance, that River Dog was worried. He quickened his pace, and was at the old man’s side within seconds. “What’s wrong?”

“Michael, you must come quickly…she’s in trouble.”

“What do you mean?” Michael questioned, seeing the fear in River Dog’s eyes.

“Max is with her now…come and see.”

Michael rushed into the house after River Dog, and immediately joined Max by her side. It didn’t take long for Michael to notice the sparks flying from Liz’s fingertips as she screamed out in pain. “Maxwell, what’s going on?”

Max shook his head. “I’m not sure…when I got back here I found her like this.”

“Well what do we do?” Michael demanded.

“I don’t know, Michael! I just don’t know.” Max leaned forward and held a hand on each side of Liz’s face. Instantly, he felt the connection and images from her life consumed him.

He saw her life growing up. He saw her with Alex and Maria. He saw her starting high school. He saw her with Kyle, even the intimate moments between them. He saw the minutes leading up to the accident. Then he felt the rush of emotions. He could feel Liz’s love for him and the baby, but the happiness was over quickly when he was hit with a wave of sickness…the baby was in trouble. The connection ended as quickly as it had begun, and Liz sent Max flying back against the wall as she screamed in agony.

Michael ran over to Max and helped him up. Max’s breathing was erratic and he flinched in pain when Michael tried to steady him. “What the hell was that?”

“The baby…she’s in trouble.”

Michael could see the petrified look on Max’s face. Liz and the baby had become his whole world, and there was no way Michael would let that slip away from him. He looked at Liz and saw the sweat pouring down her face. Calmly, he placed a hand on Max’s shoulders. “Ok…so what do we do now?”

Max knew Michael was trying to be strong for him, and as much as he appreciated it…his mind was elsewhere. Max knew how much he needed Liz and this baby. They were his family and he would do anything to save them. “We need Isabel!”

Michael saw the desperation in Max’s eyes, so he grabbed his phone, flipped it open, and dialed Maria’s cell phone number.

“Look, Spaceboy, we can only drive so fast.” Isabel had practically sprouted wings in Amy Deluca’s car, while Alex had been interrogating Maria.

“Maria, listen to me! How far away are you?”

She was taken back by his rudeness for a moment, but then she looked at the road.
“Like fifteen minutes. Why?”

“Let me talk to Isabel!” Michael didn’t have much time and he needed to tell her exactly what was going on so she would be prepared when she got there.

“What? Am I not good enough to talk to anymore? Am I only good enough when you want something?” Maria retorted, completely offended.

Michael rolled his eyes, took the phone away from his ear, and tightened his fists. “Maria, give Isabel the God Damn Phone!”

Maria looked at the phone, and then handed it to Isabel. “It’s for you.”

Isabel quickly took the phone. “Hello?”

“Isabel, something’s wrong with Liz and the baby! You need to get here, and I mean fast!” Isabel handed the phone back to Maria and stepped on the gas.

~*~*~*~*~

Max continued to hold Liz’s hand, watching her become weaker with each passing minute. She wasn’t speaking coherently anymore, but instead just mumbling and moaning. Max was trying to stay calm, but he was so frightened! He’d never witnessed childbirth before, but he was pretty sure it wasn’t supposed to be like this. He couldn’t lose Liz, not like this, not now!

Michael couldn’t watch Liz suffer any longer, so he retreated outside to wait for the others to show up. He kept looking at his watch impatiently, and was about to call Maria again when he saw the red Jetta coming up the path. Without realizing it, he’d been holding his breath, but now he released it, and ran down the path to meet them.

Isabel was the first one out of the car, and the moment her feet hit the ground she took off running for the house. Maria and Alex held back, and waited to talk to Michael. Neither one of them knew what to expect when they walked into that house, and the last thing they wanted to do was add more tension to an already scary situation.

Even under the circumstances, Michael felt his heart start to beat faster as he walked up to Maria. He stopped a few feet in front of her, ran his hands through his hair, and looked into her eyes. God how he’d missed her! He wanted to wrap his arms around her and pretend that everything was all right, but unfortunately, he had more pressing matters to deal with.

“Hi,” was all he could manage at first, but kicking the sand wasn’t helping anyone. “Ok…Liz is up there, but she’s not doing so hot. You can either stay out here or be in there, but you can’t freak out or you will leave.”

Alex and Maria nodded their heads. “Lead the way.” As they followed Michael, Alex was full of fear. Liz had been his best friend for as long as he could remember, so all he wanted was to be by her side.

When they reached the house, Michael turned back to face them both. “I need you to understand that this will be unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Liz is in trouble and so is the baby, but we’re gonna do everything we can for them. Also…there’s been a new development and I can’t have you both fainting on me…Liz has been shooting sparks out of her fingertips since she went into labor.” He saw Maria’s mouth start to open, but he continued to talk. “No, we don’t know what’s causing it or if this is one of her gifts, so right now it’s not a priority. Got it?”

“Got it.” They responded in unison.

Michael led them into Liz’s room and was shocked himself when he saw Liz’s entire body glowing. Her whole body looked as if there were a halo of light around and inside of her. Michael went to Max’s side, trying to avoid alarming the others. “What happened?”

“I don’t really know. First it started with the electricity out of her hands, and then she started glowing. Do you think it’s painful?”

“What now, Max?” Isabel whispered.

“I don’t know. I was able to connect with her earlier…maybe if we all did…then maybe we could do something.” Max said quietly.

River Dog had been standing off to the side, watching everything happen, but now he stepped forward. “Healing stones.”

They all turned to look at him.

“Excuse me?” Michael didn’t have a clue what he was talking about, but right now anything with the word healing in it sounded good to him.

“Healing stones…they came from your home. They can be used to heal you or to magnify your powers as a unit.” River Dog left the room, but soon returned holding a small, suede bag with symbols embroidered across it. He held it out to Max and waited for him to take it.

Max just stood there staring at the bag, not knowing if the so-called stones would work or not.

Michael walked up beside Max again. “It’s worth a shot, Maxwell…we’re running out of options.” He didn’t want to scare Max, but every second Liz remained in this state could be harming her and the baby or worse.

Max shook his head and took the stones out of the bag. One by one, he placed them around Liz; one at the top of her head, one at her feet, and one on each of her sides. Then, he looked to River Dog for answers.

“I do not know, my son, but I believe if you look to your heart, it will tell you what you need to know.”

Max looked at Michael and Isabel. They all knew what they had to do. Together, they closed their eyes and joined hands. Max held onto one of Liz’s hands while Isabel held the other, and almost immediately the connection formed.

The illumination surrounding Liz began to grow brighter and brighter. She was fully consumed by it now and she was in complete peace. All four of them could feel each other’s presence and they could feel the baby’s, but there was something more. Something far beyond the four of them, guiding them and showing them images of their past lives. They saw themselves as they once were, and memories that had been locked away long ago, finally opened again.

Liz and the baby were finally out of danger, but it had taken memories of their pasts to heal what had been missing between them. Their combined energy had saved Liz and her baby. Once they all felt it was safe…they let go.

Maria and Alex watched in silence with their mouths wide open. Not only were the four of them glowing…they were floating. Alex was shocked, but found it fascinating. Maria, on the other hand, was sniffing Cedar Oil as fast as she could to avoid passing out.

Liz slowly opened her eyes and saw everyone standing around her. A sense of peace washed over her as she recalled what had just happened. She saw the tears in her friend’s eyes and in the eyes of her new family. They had saved her…all of them. She’d felt the connection and bond, which linked them all together, and knew everything was going to be all right. She was going to be safe now, and so was her baby.

Liz felt the next contraction start, but this time she was not afraid. She saw River Dog approach the bed out of the corner of her eye and smiled. She knew what Max, Michael, and Isabel had done, but she knew it was River Dog who had showed them the way. She wished more than ever for her Grandma Claudia to be there, but she was thankful that River Dog was by her side. “Thank you.” She whispered through her own tears.

He leaned down and kissed her forehead gently before standing straight again. He took hold of her hand and smiled. “It’s time, my child.”

Liz focused her full attention on Max now, since they’d agreed months ago that he would deliver their daughter. She moved carefully and positioned herself against several pillows, with Maria and Isabel both supporting her. “I’m ready, Max.” She smiled at him again and this time prepared herself for what was to come.

“Ok, Liz…it’s time to push.” Max tried to steady his voice, but he knew everyone in the room understood the weight that was on his shoulders.

Liz nodded, took a deep breath, and began to push. As she continued to push, she felt her connection with Isabel. She could hear Isabel’s voice in her head telling her to breathe and that she would be ok. After a minute, she released the breath she’d been holding and locked eyes with Max. She felt completely drained and didn’t know how much more she could take. Again all the fear she’d felt earlier came crashing back. Maybe she was wrong…maybe she couldn’t do this.

Max saw the tears fall from her eyes and whispered her name. “Liz…you can do this.”

Feeling the full force of his love, she found the strength she needed. She nodded and prepared for her final push. I can do this…I have to do this. She screamed as she felt their daughter make her grand entrance into the world, and then fell back against the pillows behind her. Isabel and Maria were both crying, while Michael and Alex stood back smiling proudly. Completely exhausted, Liz raised her head when she heard the soft cry fill the tiny room.

“Liz, would you like to hold our daughter?” Max was trying to hide his tears, but he was overcome with emotion. After the hell he’d lived through with his father, he was amazed to have found heaven with Liz.

Liz held out both arms to take the baby, and looking into her eyes, Liz finally felt at peace. “Welcome to this world, my little Nehayvah.”

TBC

I see that many of you are asking about the baby's name. "Nehayvah" is Cherokee for heaven. I thought with Claudia's close connection to the reservation and with River Dog by Liz's side, it seemed right. I don't know how to explain how it's pronounced so I'll try and just break it down...

Ne hay va

Hope that helps! I'll be back soon

Melyssa

Wow, I can't believe this story has already come to the end I have to admit that while there were times I considered abandoning this fic, I'm so glad I decided to finish it! There are so many of you that I want to thank, but I wouldn't even begin to know where to start. When I almost gave up working on this fic one thing kept me going and that was the overwhelming response from so many of you asking me to continue. My Inbox stayed full for weeks Your feedback has been amazing and has helped me steer this story in directions I never intended to take, so it's because of most of you that Secrets has gone the way it has! For that I will always be grateful!

There are a few people that I want to send a special thank you to. I would like to thank babylisou for giving me this challenge when I completed Like Father Like Son (origionally her fic) because without her words of encouragement I never would've continued to write. It was because of her amazing ideas that I fell into writing to begin with. Thank you, Ann!

I would like to thank Deejonaise for being such an inspiration to follow! While I don't know if I could ever reach her caliber of writing, reading her work made me want to write. She is truly a gifted author and a wonderful person!

Amy...there simply aren't words to thank you for being there through thick and thin, and always pushing me to go on. I think this world is a better place because you are part of it. You have the kindest heart and the most gentle nature of anyone I've ever met, and I feel blessed knowing you are in my life!

Finally, I want to thank my sister Anna! I am so lucky to have such a wonderful and supportive sister, and I promise I will never take that for granted! You are the wind beneath my wings, Anna, and you always will be!

Now, before I start crying, here is the final part of Secrets! Thank you all for being a part of this, my last story

EPILOGUE

It was long after nightfall before Maria, Isabel, Alex, and Michael finally tore themselves away from the new family, but it was obvious that Liz needed her rest. Reluctantly, they each came to Liz with their best wishes and a kiss on the forehead, and then went on their way. It had been a long day, but none of them wanted to see it end. There was a strong sense of energy surrounding the group, causing each of them to feel as if the stress of the day had never happened. The bonding of the four aliens had created a field of energy so strong that it enveloped even Alex and Maria.

“I wish I could put into words what I’m feeling right now.” Alex admitted once they were all outside beneath the stars.

Michael and Isabel smiled at each other, knowing exactly what Alex was feeling. “You don’t have to describe it, Alex. I think we all feel it.” Isabel stated as she looked up at the stars. Tonight the stars seemed to hold a different meaning to her than they ever had, for tonight they were a sign of distant worlds she’d never thought of before. Somewhere up in that beautiful, bright sky was a home she would never see. For an instant, the thought saddened her, but looking around at the people that had come to mean so much to her, she knew she was already home.

Michael could sense Isabel’s emotions, which seemed to mirror his own. For so long he’d only thought about the world he came from, always ignoring the world he lived in. This was his home, it always had been, and now for the first time he was at peace. After several moments, his gaze shifted from the sky above down to Maria. Although there was darkness all around them, he could see her shining. He watched as she hugged Alex and danced around laughing in the moonlight. He’d never seen anything or anyone look more beautiful. Michael hated to admit when someone else was right and he was wrong, but this time…Maria had been right. From that very first moment, Maria had captured his heart and whether he liked it or not, he didn’t see her giving it back anytime soon. The strangest part was that he didn’t want her to.

Maria could feel Michael’s eyes on her, but she continued to dance around, laughing in wonder at everything that had happened. Liz was a mother now and she’d been there to see that beautiful baby make her way into this world. There was no denying she’d been frightened, but for once she was not going to dwell on the past but instead look only to the future. A few feet away she saw Alex and Isabel embracing, and her heart ached for Michael Guerin even more. While she was tempted to go to him, she wouldn’t. He’d walked away from her, and although his intentions had been honorable, he’d broken her heart. If there was to be a future for them, he would have to come to her.

Isabel finally pulled herself away from Alex and turned to Michael and Maria. “What do we do now?”

Michael pulled his eyes away from Maria and looked to Isabel. “I don’t know. I guess we should all try to get some sleep.”

“Are you kidding me?” Maria said matter of factly. “I couldn’t sleep right now if I wanted to. I have all of this energy pulsating through me,” she said as she twirled around again, “you can’t tell me you don’t feel it too?”

“She’s right, Michael. Why do we feel this way?” Alex questioned.

Michael shook his head and stared back up at the stars. “I don’t know for sure, but I think when the four of us connected it opened the door to something.”

“A door?” Maria looked at him in confusion. “To what?”

Isabel looked at Michael, her eyes pleading with him not to explain his statement, but he knew he had to. If they were to be a family, there couldn’t be any secrets between them. “A door to our past lives. When we connected…we saw who we once were. We saw our destiny as it was meant to be.”

“Your destiny?” Alex stepped forward. “Doesn’t your destiny state that you and Isabel are mates just as Liz and Max are?”

“Yes…it does.”

“But you’ve known about that for months, so what does that have to do with now?” Maria asked.

Michael looked at her and saw the worried look in her eyes, but he had to be honest. “Before, we were just told about our destiny…now we’ve actually seen it.”

“You mean…” Maria started.

“I mean we remember each other. We remember who we were, and how we once felt.” He confirmed.

Alex’s usually calm demeanor was quickly slipping away. “Where does that leave us?” Alex demanded.

Michael desperately wanted to take Maria into his arms and assure her and Alex that nothing was going to change how he and Isabel felt about them, but he didn’t know if that was true. “I wish I knew.”

~*~*~*~*~

Max cradled the tiny infant in his arms as Liz looked at both of them adoringly. He stared down at her tiny fist gripping his finger and wondered how he’d ever lived without her and Liz. Biologically, she might not be his child, but in his heart there was no question that she belonged with him. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything more precious.”

Liz was exhausted from the day’s events, but she refused to go to sleep. “She’s perfect, isn’t she?”

“When she looks into my eyes it’s as though she already knows who I am. Is that even possible?”

Liz smiled. “I think so.”

It was hard to pull his eyes away from the sleeping baby in his arms, but he finally looked up to meet Liz’s eyes. “I don’t know what I would’ve done if something had happened to either one of you.” His expression had changed from pure joy to complete seriousness. “I hope you know that I’ll always protect both of you with my life.”

Liz felt the tears start to form in her eyes as she listened to Max’s vow. “I know you will, Max. I have faith in you.”

Max eased up a little and looked back down at the baby. “Why Nehayvah?”

Again Liz smiled as she thought back to her own childhood. “It was my grandmother’s nickname for me when I was growing up. My parents named me Elizabeth, but Grandma Claudia always called me her little Nehayvah. It means heaven. If you don’t like it we can always just use it as a nickname for her.”

“No.” Max shook his head. “It’s perfect. You and Nehayvah are my heaven.”

Now Liz was the one to turn serious. “Max?”

“Yes?” He asked, his eyes never leaving Nehayvah.

“I want to get married.” She watched his head pop up and feared that he had changed his mind. “Unless, of course, you don’t want to.” She finished, biting her bottom lip.

In that moment, Max felt more love for Liz than he knew how to express. He had no doubts. They were a family and nothing would ever get in the way of that. “Liz…there’s nothing I want more than to marry you.”

River Dog felt guilty for witnessing the intimate moment between them, but he’d entered into the room while they were talking and hadn’t wanted to interrupt. “I’m sorry to disturb you.” He said quietly when Max finally noticed him standing in the doorway.

Liz looked up and smiled at the old man who had become part of her family over the last few months. “You have nothing to apologize for. You are always welcome with us. I should be thanking you…you helped them save my life.”

River Dog slowly walked up to the bed and took hold of Liz’s hand. “No, my child…I simply gave them the stones, and they found their way.”

“I can still say thank you.” She almost giggled when the old man started to blush, but she knew if would only cause him embarrassment. “You have watched over me and comforted me these last few months, even when I was at my worst. You’ve taught me to be strong and you’ve shared your memories of my grandmother with me…for that I will always be grateful. You are part of my family now.” Liz looked at Max and gestured for him to hand the baby to River Dog. “I’d like you to meet Nehayvah.”

River Dog took the baby gently into his arms and grinned at the tiny face. “Your grandmother would have loved to have been here for this moment.”

“I think she was.” Their eyes met and they both understood.

River Dog kissed Nehayvah’s head and handed her back to her father. “I hope you know I would never intentionally invade your privacy.”

“Yes, I know.” Liz responded.

“I overheard you and young Max here talking as I came in. You wish to be married, yes?”

“Very much.” Max and Liz both answered.

The old man smiled widely, which was unusual for him. “I would like to do the honors. I was once the head of the Grand Council among my people…I can perform the ceremony.”

Max looked at Liz and they both shook their heads. Grinning, Max turned to face River Dog. “Who better to unite us than the man who reunited us all together. We would be honored.”

~*~*~*~*~

The next several days seemed to fly by. River Dog was busy preparing for the marriage ceremony, while Liz regained her strength. Liz’s parents had been there regularly to visit their daughter and granddaughter, and Maria and Alex had stayed by Liz’s side almost constantly. Neither of them talked about Michael or Isabel, but Liz was well aware of the situation between them all. Several times she’d thought about broaching the subject with them, but her friends were trying so hard to keep up a strong façade in front of her. So, in the end she’d decided to wait until the time felt right.

By the end of the week all plans had been set in motion and Liz’s wedding day finally arrived. River Dog had explained the ceremonial grounds to her earlier in the week so she would understand everything happening around her.

Liz and Max were to be married on the squaregrounds. A square piece of land on the reservation, it represented all of the four elements, and was considered to be holy. Their guests, however few, would sit outside of the square as the ceremony was performed.

Liz had chosen a modest white dress for the day, and Maria had woven flowers throughout Liz’s long flowing dark hair. When Liz looked at herself in the mirror shortly before the ceremony, she barely recognized the person staring back at her. Only months ago she had been a scared teenage girl completely terrified of the future before her, but now she was a woman. She glanced over at Nehayvah sleeping peacefully in Isabel’s arms, and sighed. She was no longer that girl. She was a mother and she was about to be a wife.

“Are you getting nervous?” Maria questioned when she noticed Liz’s far away expression.

Liz shook her head and smiled at her best friend. “Not even a little…just thinking.”

Maria huffed. “Then you’re stronger than I’ll ever be. I think I’d be hyperventilating about now.”

“I don’t believe I’ve ever been so sure of anything in my whole life.” Liz said quietly as she smiled in the mirror again.

Maria finished messing with Liz’s hair and stood up straight. “It’s a good thing, cause it’s time to go, Chica.”

Liz nodded and followed by Isabel and Maria, made her way outside. The walk to the squaregrounds was short, but with each step Liz felt her heart begin to swell even more. When Max came clearly into view, she had to take a deep breath to steady herself. This was the moment she’d been waiting for. She approached the small altar slowly, as Maria and Isabel took their seats and handed Nehayvah over to Liz’s mom.

Max felt his heart skip a beat when Liz finally came to him and took his hands into her own. Smiling at each other, both of them with tears in their eyes, they promised their most sacred promise.

“I, Elizabeth, take you, Max, to be my husband. I will honor you, cherish you, and keep only unto you as long as we both shall live.” Liz looked at River Dog, who gestured her to go on. “You are my light and my strength within. I will continue to thank God each and every day for the blessings he has given me. I love you.”

“I, Max, take you, Elizabeth, to be my wife. I will honor you, cherish you, and keep only unto you as long as we both shall live. The day I met you, I was living in dark world without end. You saved me from that life. You have not only become my heart, but my home. I will protect you and our daughter with everything that I am, and always make you feel safe and secure within my arms. I love you.”

As the audience sniffled and exchanged tissues, River Dog looked upon the young couple with pride. “With the promises that Max and Elizabeth have made to each other on this, our holy ground, I am honored to present them to you as husband and wife. Max, you may kiss Elizabeth and seal the bond between you.”

Max leaned forward and took Liz’s mouth against his own. As their tongues met and their arms embraced, the bond between them was forever cemented. In that moment, nothing existed beyond them, and something that had long been missing was made right.

Their family and friends erupted into applause, and the people they loved most in the world quickly engulfed them. There was a small, intimate reception after the ceremony, but Liz and Max hardly noticed. They were truly together at last and nothing could ever change that.

River Dog was engaged in conversation with Liz’s parents, while their friends stood around them trying to feel the joy of their happy day. Unfortunately, there was no mistaking the sadness among their friends. Reluctantly, Liz and Max finally released one another and went in their own directions to help ease the pain of those around them.

“Hey, Michael.” Max said cheerfully as he shook his best friend’s hand.

“Well, Maxwell…you did it. Congratulations. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you happier.”

“I truly wish I could say the same about you.”

Michael knew where Max was going with this, and although he appreciated the concern, it was Max’s day. “Maxwell, don’t. Today is yours…enjoy it.”

“I would like to, but seeing our friends in pain makes it difficult. For once, Michael, just listen to me. I know you think Maria is better off without you, but I think you’re wrong. You love her, and I think it’s time you did something about it. Quit hiding behind your destiny because we both know that’s not what’s holding you back.” Max met Michael’s eyes directly, and then spoke again. “Let go, man. Forget our past and look ahead.” Max turned to look over at Maria. “She’s waiting for you, Michael.” Hoping Michael had listened to him, Max smiled and walked away.

Liz was several feet away talking to Isabel quietly. “Isabel, you can’t hide out with the baby all day.” Liz glanced over at Alex who appeared totally miserable. “He’s one of a kind, Isabel, and even though it took you awhile to see it…you can’t wait until the next girl comes along and realizes how amazing he is. He loves you, Isabel. Do you really want to risk losing him?”

“Liz, it’s not that simple. He thinks I betrayed him and turned toward my destiny…I don’t think he’d believe me now if I told him how I really feel.”

“Only one way to find out.” Liz bent over and took her daughter from Isabel’s arms. “It’s up to you now.” Liz smiled and headed back toward Max.

Once together again, Max and Liz pretended to ignore the others. “Any luck?” Max asked.

“Not sure yet. You?” Liz responded.

“Not sure. He’s too damn stubborn for his own good.” Max said as he watched Michael stare at the ground.

“Well, Isabel’s not quite as stubborn, but I think she’s reluctant to make the first move.” Liz saw that Isabel was still sitting exactly where she’d left her. “Max, I think it’s time we accepted the fact that we can't make them all come back together.”

Just as Liz spoke, Max saw Michael approach Maria, and Isabel walk over to Alex. “Don’t be so sure.” He and Liz watched their friends come together at last. “I told you there would be a happy ending.” He said teasingly.

“Well, Mr. Evans, I never should’ve doubted you.”

“No, Mrs. Evans, you shouldn’t have.”

They held each other close with Nehayvah snuggled between them.

~*~*~*~*~

It took Michael a few minutes to gather up enough courage to go to Maria. From the first time he’d met her she’d been pushy, and now the first time he wanted her to be pushy she was staying away. It was just his luck! He saw her body tense as he approached and almost turned around, but he couldn’t. Whether she was willing to take him back or not, he had to tell her how he felt.

“Hi, Maria.”

“Michael.” She stated simply, acting as though she didn’t care.

“There’s something…well I need…I have something I need to say to you.” He managed.

“You’re already talking, so what is it?” Maria asked in her most irritated tone.

“You don’t have to be so bitchy…”

“I don’t have to be bitchy! Well, you…”

“Wait!” Michael reached forward and grabbed her shoulders. “Just listen to me, and then I’ll leave you alone.” Maria nodded, so he continued. “You were right, Maria, about everything! I was being a coward and I was running away from you. I was just scared because other than Max, no one ever cared that much about me! I know that’s not your fault, and I know it’s too late, but I love you! I just wanted you to know that!” When he realized he was still holding her in place he let go.

Maria stood there, stunned and silent, and then finally reached into her bag and pulled out her Cedar Oil. Quickly, she began to sniff the contents in the bottle, hoping she wouldn’t faint.

“Christ, Maria!” Michael grabbed the small vial out of her hands and threw it on the ground. “Did you hear me? I love you!”

She took a deep breath, composed herself, and smiled. “I love you too, Spaceboy!”

Michael grabbed her and pulled her into his arms without hesitating. “I’ve never been so happy to hear that name before!”

They both felt a spark the moment their lips met. It was as if they’d never been apart. After a minute, they both pulled away to catch their breath. “What do you say we find somewhere a little more private?” Michael asked suggestively.

“Whatever you have in mind, Spaceboy, is fine with me!”

They disappeared quickly, but not quite fast enough to escape Max and Liz’s attention. Two down…two to go.

~*~*~*~*~

Isabel saw Michael and Maria and decided if Michael Guerin, of all people, could face his fears, then she could too. She didn’t walk slowly this time, but ran toward Alex. She’d wasted enough time already, and now there was nothing stopping her.

“Alex Whitman, I love you! I’ve been so stupid, questioning what my destiny was, when it was already standing right in front of me! It’s you! It’s always been you! I was just too blind to see how amazing you really are!”

Alex didn’t know what to say. He’d never seen this side of Isabel before. “Isabel, have you been drinking?” It seemed like a logical explanation to him.

“No.” She laughed. “I’ve been asleep, but I’m awake now and I never want to let you go again.” She didn’t wait for his response. Instead, she launched herself into his arms and kissed him before he could stop her.

When Alex finally pulled away to catch his breath, he saw Isabel smiling. “You sure don’t waste any time, do you?”

“I’ve wasted years!”

Not far away, Max and Liz were both smiling. “Now, the day is perfect.” Liz said as she danced with her family.

~*~*~*~*~

Max and Liz spent a few more weeks on the reservation getting used to being new parents and newlyweds, but it was time for them to go home. Their friends missed them terribly and Liz’s parents wanted to see their granddaughter more often. Nehayvah had shown no signs of having “gifts” so they believed it was safe to return.

Tearfully, Liz and Max said good-bye to River Dog, but each promised they would return soon. Smiling, but sad, he sent them on their way. As much as it hurt for them to leave, this was his home and they had a right to find where they belonged also.

Max’s truck was too small for the three of them, so her parents had given them Nancy’s old sedan and she had been driving Max’s truck. When they finally pulled up in front of the Crashdown Café, Liz felt as though it had been years instead of months. She was happy to be home, but already missed the quietness of the reservation. Not to mention, she would have to face Kyle now.

The three of them entered the café and were greeted happily by their family. Everyone was there. Michael and Maria were kissing and laughing. Alex and Isabel were snuggling close and staring at one another, and Jeff and Nancy Parker were making a fuss over the baby. Liz had never been happier. Standing there with the man she loved, their daughter, her friends, and family filled Liz’s heart with more love than she could have ever expected. Lost in their own world, no one saw Kyle looking in the front window.

~*~*~*~*~

Tess saw Kyle in front of the Crashdown and walked over to join him. “Hey there.” She called out when she was only a few feet away.

Kyle turned to face her as she reached him. “Hey.”

Tess immediately noticed that something was bothering Kyle. Over the last few months, they’d become good friends and spent endless hours talking. They only had each other now. “You ok?”

Kyle gestured toward the window, so Tess held her hand to the glass and looked in. It didn’t take long to notice the group of people gathered around the front of the café. Slowly, she stepped back and placed a gentle hand on Kyle’s shoulder. “I see…have you thought about going inside? After all, it’s your child…I think anyone would understand you wanting to see it.”

Kyle didn’t say anything for a minute, but continued to stare in the window. Liz looked absolutely radiant. Max was there with her, holding the baby in his arms. As much as it pained him to face it, they were a family. For months he’d thought about what he would say to Liz when she finally returned, but now he realized there was nothing to say.

He turned away from the window and looked at Tess. “I’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately. I know that baby is mine genetically, but I have nothing to offer them. They’re happy with Max and I have to accept that. They deserve that much.”

“I’m sorry, Kyle. I know this must be hard.”

“Yes it is, but it’s the way things have to be. Tess…I’m leaving. Like I said, I’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately, and I realized I don’t belong here anymore.” He saw her lower her head, but he caught her chin. “I don’t think you belong here anymore either. I can’t promise you love or marriage, but I can promise you friendship and a shoulder to lean on.”

“What are you saying, Kyle?”

“I’ve already talked to my dad and made some arrangements. I’m taking the scholarship to Michigan State and I think you should come with me. We’re outcasts, Tess…what’s left for us here?”

She thought about it for a second and shook her head. “Nothing.”

“Exactly. So will you come with me?”

With a tear in her eye, she looked up at Kyle. “Thank you. Yes. Yes I’ll go.”

With that, they both looked at the Crashdown Café one last time and then they were gone.

~*~*~*~*~

Jim hated to interrupt the festivities he could see through the window, but he thought he should give Liz the letter that had been waiting for her. The sheriff opened the door in front of him, and waited to be noticed. He walked further into the café and up to where Liz and Max were standing with the baby. “Liz, I know you’re all having fun and I don’t want to spoil it, but I have something for you.” He handed her the envelope. “It’s important, so I didn’t think I should wait.”

Liz took the letter from him and opened it slowly. While she read it, and then reread it, he gazed longingly at his granddaughter.

“Liz?” Max asked. “What is it?”

Liz stood there in shock for a minute, completely speechless. “It’s umm…well…it’s from Kyle.” She saw everyone’s expressions change and quickly finished what she had to say. “He’s given up all rights to Nehayvah, so Max can adopt her legally.” She said in disbelief.

Instantly, the café roared with cheers, but Liz just continued to stare at the letter in disbelief.

“Liz, are you ok?” Max questioned with his face lit up.

“It’s like a dream. Max, we can really be a family!” Liz answered exuberantly.

Max turned and handed Nehayvah to a suddenly surprised grandfather. Then he laughed and took Liz into his arms. “I told you everything would work out for the best.” He stated confidently.

“Yes, you did.” She stood up on her toes to kiss him. “I love you, Max Evans.”

“I love you, Liz Evans.”

Jeff jumped up onto the counter, waving the letter in his hand. “I would like to present to all of you Max, Liz, and Nehayvah Evans!”

After all the hurdles they’d overcome, all the pain they’d lived through, and all the secrets they’d uncovered, here they were…Michael, Maria, Alex, Isabel, Max, Liz, and Nehayvah…a complete unit!


The End