Posted: Tue Oct 11, 2005 3:02 pm
26:D continued
In the meanwhile Max had returned home from work later that night. But upon seeing the Sheriff’s Explorer in the driveway he had panicked and driven back into town. Back to the Crashdown where he was once again spending all his free time it seemed. He loved how it was right across the street from the UFO Center.
Inside the floors had been swept and mopped, the chairs were overturned on the tables and a young couple was dirtying the last dishes of the day. Isabel and Alex had stopped in for a late night snack, Root Beer Floats, well, Root Beer for Alex. Isabel’s was a stranger concoction of Cherry Coke with Tabasco, as well as the vanilla ice cream. The Crashdown was officially closed, but these two teens were exceptions to any rules. Maria and Liz were dutifully finishing up; Liz was at the register tallying the day’s profits and Maria was finalizing the putting away of the clean dishes from the last load in the dishwasher. They would hand wash the soda glasses and be completely done for the day soon.
A frantic banging was head on the glass and Liz hurried over to see who it was. Max stood outside and was quickly let in. He seemed a bit shaken to put it mildly.
“Max?” she questioned as he blew through the door heading straight for his sister’s table, bypassing her altogether. He had spotted the familiar blonde hair as he entered. Liz followed him at a distance and stopped by Maria who was also watching the scene with interest.
“Oh! God! What Now?” Isabel demanded as she saw her brother’s furtive glancing around for any adults or others who were not privy to the secret.
“Isabel,” saying her name in a low-toned panic placed her worry on alert considering she was right there. “Have you been home tonight?” He questioned as he slid in the seat across from his sister, moving Alex to the side in a single motion
Maria rolled her eyes and thought to herself, ‘Will this boy ever learn manners?’
“Max!!” Alex barked as he was displaced.
“No.” She shook her head. “Alex took me out for an impromptu date tonight.” Her eyes glanced over at her boyfriend.
“Really?” Max asked in a tone of disbelief. Which she quickly curtailed, “I’m here aren’t I?”
“So you have no idea what’s going on then?” He asked her curiously.
She did not like the turn this conversation seemed to be taking, Isabel said shaking her head slowly while she tried to drag more information out of him, Swallowing nervously she looked into his face. “What are you taking about? What is going on Max?”
He shrugged and shook his head worriedly, “I just went home after work, but I didn’t stay.” He informed her.
“Why?” Isabel was now watching him carefully. And it was at this point the girl’s decided to forgo whatever task they had been attending to and to join the conversation, whether they were invited or not. They moved to stand nearer the table but still not intruding on the private conversation. Although they could hear parts of it.
“Because, Max stated, “Sheriff Valenti’s car was there. Parked in the driveway.”
A momentary fear flashed across Isabel’s eyes, but she tried to rein it in, unsuccessfully. “At our house?” Isabel asked in a surprised tone of worry. “What do you think happened? Do you think Michael got into some kind of trouble?? I haven’t seen him since last night.” ‘Is Nasedo here? Is Hank still around, or was he “killed”? Is Michael being arrested? Did he do anything last night? Where was he? Damn... No answers.’ She pushed her float away, shaking her head slightly and biting her lip almost imperceptibly in thought.
At the same time Alex was watching the emotions playing in her eyes, its like they were progressively darkening with increased moisture each second and a new worry was overtaking each previous one. She was reaching panic with the last moment’s thought. He reached his hand out to touch hers, as she started to visibly bite her lip and stare at the table.
And still at the same time, after she worriedly answered Max he replied, “I don’t know if anything’s up with Michael. I didn’t stay there long enough to find out. I got home and the sheriff was there. Apparently we’re not,” he looked up and held her eyes for a moment. “I didn’t even know you were here, last I recall we were grounded. Seeing the sheriff’s car and knowing what all has been going on with you, I panicked. I just raced right over here, I don’t even know exactly why, but when I saw you…” He sighed and slowed down his rapid-fire speech. “I am just so glad to see that you are here with Alex and the girls. I think I’d be really worried if you were at home considering ‘everything.’
“Yeah.” She tried to smile, to reassure him, but it wasn’t working, she had too many unknowns to work from again. She swallowed, and played with the fear that was more stemming from the past timeline but causing her heart to quicken right now. “Oh God,” she choked out. “Did we do the right thing Max?” She actually needed him to reassure her at this moment.
Max shook his head. “You’re the one who came up with this plan.” He looked at her skeptically, “And now you ask me that?” He sent back dubiously. “Isabel? You assured me this would work…” Max’s worry did not give him any room to comfort his sister, he was worried for his brother Michael, who was nowhere to be seen since early that morning when he ran away. And for some reason Valenti was at their house right now, and Isabel sure hadn’t done anything alien in awhile. Max was confused and worried.
“Max, I…” Isabel faltered, as her face fell. She couldn’t answer him. She really didn’t know. This timeline got more convoluted every time she turned around. Just when she thought it might be doing the same, it wasn’t, or was it? It’s not like it was that great last time when this whole instance occurred in the other timeline. Tears were glistening in the corners of her eyes.
That was all he needed. “Move Max.” Alex pushed him directly off the bench and went to Isabel’s side, sliding in beside her he wrapped his arm tightly around her shoulder and pulled her close. She buried her head into his shoulder unashamedly and held on to him for a second while regaining her sense of composure.
Maria was suffering an empathic overload and couldn’t handle the emotions pouring forth from the trio. First there was anxiety, of a palpable nature pouring off of Isabel. Maria could feel the soothing and calming waves of Alex’s concern and care. And then even Max was registering some kind of frightened confusion. None of it made any sense really to Maria, and it wasn’t like these emotions were clearly displayed on their parties: but rather the fact that Maria was being hit with their whole force because she was well versed on reading people from all her mother’s training and emotions were something that she was especially perceptive on. (Might explain some of the fights she gets in with Michael, Overwhelming sensations of emotions from one whose guarding them and no outlet for either of them to release) She had to get in here, so she slid into the seat, now forcing Max over in the manner he had done to Alex a few minutes earlier.
Liz grabbed an overturned chair from the nearby table and plunked it at the table’s edge and she too joined the session.
Alex whispered as her head buried against his shoulder. “Ok Isabel. Just Breathe. It’s ok.” He said a bit louder for all to hear. “You got Michael out of there.” He lifted her chin to glance into her worry filled eyes. “You did what you had to do.” He gave her a quick kiss to her forehead. And in a gesture of extreme understanding, and an unspoken code to the three who were there the night Isabel was hit, he stroked her right cheek as he talked gently to her. “You were incredibly brave coming up with a plan that fast when you discovered what was going on.” His fingers were reassuring her with every stroke along the cheekbone that a few days ago had been fractured. “And implementing it.” He rubbed the joint with his thumb as he spoke directly to her, “Michael is safe thanks to your quick thinking.”
She gave him her complete trust, in front of Max she whispered worriedly, “But Valenti. What could he possibly want?”
Maria could sense her hesitation but she wasn’t sure why. Isabel was physically worried. Where a few minutes ago it was empathically deciphered, now Isabel was just frightened. Anyone, even without any empathic abilities, would be able to read the girl’s state now. Her hidden fears had become evident to all.
Alex couldn’t handle Isabel’s emotions anymore either. He knew that there must be some ‘past’ mixed with present to send her over like this. He looked up at her brother while still holding her securely. “Max?” He directly questioned, “Were your parents there?”
Max looked puzzled for a second “I believe so.” And replaying the event in his mind he nodded in the affirmative, “Yes. They were parked in the driveway.”
Alex sighed in a relieved manner, which caused Isabel to stare curiously at him.
“Then this might have absolutely nothing to do with any ‘Czechoslovakian’ issue.” His word choice not lost on any of them. He looked at the assembled and continued, “If they were there, your parents, we just have to assume that they called Valenti due to Michael’s injuries.”
“But Michael hasn’t come back.” Isabel fretted. He turned to her, “Your mom did have me take you out tonight so that they could do something very important for work. And Michael is not here, so maybe that’s what it was…” He smiled at both her and Max. “We’re going to have to assume that for now.” Taking a breath he continued, “I mean why else would they have me get you completely out of the house, Ya’ know? And Valenti’s a cop. He’s probably just taking statements or something, you know, doing his job? I’m sure we have nothing to worry about.” He gave them each a smile and Isabel a squeeze.
“You’re sure?” Isabel questioned in almost a little girl tone. The sound clenched Alex’s heart that she had anything to fear in her life. And he nodded with an unbelievable calm flowing through him, “Yeah I am. Surprisingly.” He sort of chuckled with his admission.
Maria knew that her next question would not be well received, but she and Liz still hadn’t been informed as to why Isabel and Alex went to Clovis a couple weeks prior, and they were still awaiting answers. And Isabel’s fear was almost palpable when Max had rushed in several moments earlier. Maria sighed and reached out her hand to clasp in her friend’s, “Why are you so worried about Valenti Isabel?”
“Because he’s following me.” Isabel answered caustically, “And I’m not talking fun and games Follow-the Leader here. He’s watching me… tailing me…”
“What do you mean?” Asked Liz as she asked her first question of the conversation.
“He told me that he was.” Isabel turned to look at the brunette, “He also said, that he’d catch me “in the act” sometime, and that he’s keeping a file on me and every unexplained thing that I do… that’s enough don’t you think?”
“When did he do that?” Liz questioned again.
“Remember the rave?” Isabel pointed out the timeframe.
“Yeah, of course.”
“Remember how we were pulled out of class and talked to him a couple days later?”
“Definitely.” The girls said in unison, sitting on the edge of their seats.
“Ok then. Yeah…” She felt Alex squeeze her shoulder, “Well that day he questioned us at school he told me that.”
Liz kept on with the questions, “So? That’s why you were so shaken up when he interrogated you?” She asked in her limited understanding.
Isabel shook her head. “No!!”
In unison the girl’s echoed her, “No?”
“No.”
That was his parting shot. He has a video-tape,” she let out a sad and heavy sigh, “of Alex and me dancing….” She swallowed deeply while she stared at the tabletop while she stated. “Of me using my powers.” She whispered so softly. Looking up into their eyes she said, “He’s notified the FBI.”
“What!?” Maria jumped in as the two girls turned to stare at her.
“There were some undercover agents here a couple of weeks ago; I took her to Clovis so she wouldn’t have to deal with it.” Alex volunteered.
Liz shook her head, this didn’t make much sense. “How do you know? I mean that there were agents sure, how do you know that… But also that Valenti had anything to do with it? Isn’t that just speculation?” She threw out.
Isabel turned to glare at the petite brunette as she hissed out, “Being who I am... We are…” Isabel harshly whispered. “We have to be alert and careful every moment of every day. Anyone could be a potential enemy. But…. I could feel it, they just felt wrong. They were here, and then they were there.” She crossed her arms on her chest in an obviously agitated manner as she leaned backwards heavily unto the seat.
Isabel had thoroughly confused the two girls who seemed to have a very limited vocabulary regarding this unfolding drama as they once again queried in unison. “What?”
“There.” Said Alex assuredly as he rejoined the conversation. “The sheriff station.” He looked at his girls. “Walking out with a video-tape, and a file. Some of the same people, and it wasn’t a regular tape they had their hands on I guarantee it… they were clutching it like it was the prize of a lifetime.”
“Again... What!!?” Asked Maria.
“That’s why Alex took me out of town.” Isabel continued with the tale and the girl’s hung onto it as if she were telling an engrossing novel. “They, the FBI, or some kind of agents at least… have that tape.” Remembering the fear of that day she just softly whispered, “A tape of my powers... in action.”
Liz was in pain for her newest girlfriend, “You must be plain terrified of Valenti then huh Isabel? That he would do that?”
Trying not to act that it affected her as much as it did, Isabel shrugged her shoulders, “I guess.” She stated rather nonchalantly.
“If he comes anywhere near you, I’ll hurt him. Its not like you are dangerous or anything…” Isabel shook her head with a slight smile, a couple months ago the girl was terrified of her. “And to think that my mother is dating him… I need to get her and all of us away from him… He had no right… ” Maria started to get worked up.
“Calm down Maria. Really you don’t want to get involved in this. Just let things go… Leave your mother alone unless you really want to inform her of everything...” Alex tried to get her back to rational, and thought to himself that she was doing remarkably well for having lost the bet and having a week of crazy alien happenings to deal with. She was certainly trying to hold it in check.
Maria was ready to launch into an unchecked tirade or something however and so Liz jumped up quickly, “Well then, I know my girlfriend here is very smart indeed,” said Liz with a kiss to Alex’s temple. Turning her attention back to Isabel she softly and gently said, “You’re parents aren’t going to let anything happen to you. They wouldn’t have let Sheriff Valenti into their house tonight if they deemed him even a remote threat to either of you.” She looked between the alien siblings as she made her comment. “I assume they do know everything you’ve just shared right?” Isabel nodded.
Maria jumped in and clasped her other hand over the one that was already holding Isabel’s, looking the taller blonde right in the eyes. “You’re fine Isabel. We’ve got your back … You just keep on walking forward.” With a small squeeze she disengaged her hands and in the same motion turned and thumped Max on the chest with the back of her hand, as she proceeded to reprimand him. “And the next time, you need to see what is going on your house before you turn up here panicking and scaring your sister like that…” Max looked surprised, but she wasn’t done. “Couldn’t you feel her worry Max?? You are completely dense buddy if you couldn’t tap into that.” The words tumbled out rapidly and then without skipping a beat she turned sweetly and compassionately back to Isabel, “Now you call me girlfriend if it’s anything bad. But I’ll bet its just fine.” Isabel nodded.
“Well. Now that we’ve got that all taken care of, we ought to be getting home, before Mom and Dad send out a search party.” Max teased while rubbing the spot where Maria had thwacked him. She had a powerful punch behind that tiny frame he realized.
“Ok. We’ll clean up here and expect to hear all about it tomorrow ok Isabel?” Said Liz with a gentle smile.
Isabel looked sidelong at Alex. He was staring at the tabletop ever since Liz had mentioned the morrow. “No... We can’t…” Isabel stated.
The all too familiar question was again asked, “What?”
She shrugged, “We’re grounded. Max and me.” She declared.
“Ok, No Big. Sorry for that, but we’ll see you then right Alex?” Maria added.
Isabel drew her glance away, and Alex looked up. “That would be a no!! I have a date with a lovely garage all weekend.” He added flirtatiously. Sighing, “I’m on garage detail. Alone.”
“WHY?” Maria dragged out the word as she glanced between the two “Why are your parents punishing you?” She added as she pointed her finger between the couple. Max looked up and smirked… ‘Alex was being punished?’
Isabel got a nervous smile as she bent her head and shook it while a warm feeling crept over her face. She removed herself from Alex’s arms and motioned him out so that she could stand to leave. He allowed her to without a hesitation, getting out of the seat so that she could.
‘Ok! He didn’t try to keep her in the booth. And come-on, they’re an item, and everyone knows it, so no goodbye kiss. Not even a little peck?’ Maria knew that there a story behind this exchange and so she went for the kill... “What’d I miss?” She was direct and she knew the two were definitely involved together somehow.
Max looked over at his sister and smirked yet again. He himself was not aware of how their morning had been but he couldn’t wait for the story either.
Isabel cleared her throat (a mannerism not lost on either girl) and shrugged, “Michael ran away last night.” Isabel stated, standing next to the table...
“Ok?… So?…” Maria took a breath and blurted out, “That’s so not the story… keep going.” Maria looked upwards at the taller girl.
Isabel ducked her head and chuckled. “Max went to Liz’s. I went to Alex’s. That’s it… Come on Max…” She leaned over Maria to grab her brother’s arm and was unprepared for what came next.
Quick as a serpent Maria’s hand darted reflexively and grabbed the taller girl’s wrist and held it to the table. Isabel tried to shrug it off but Maria would not let go, she had the grip of a viper. Isabel glared menacingly at her, but she was unaffected by the taller girl’s withering stare. Instead Maria glared back at her with her own matched defiance and a raised queried eyebrow. “Sure it is…” She said sarcastically. “Spill it Isabel, or I’ll get Blushing Beauty over here to spill,” she motioned to the silent Alex whose head was averted downwards staring at the table top while a distinctly red hue covered the tips of his ears as well as his face.
Alex so didn’t want to start this conversation, not that they’d done anything. But getting found in the morning in a somewhat compromising situation left him enough to be embarrassed about. Compromising in the fact that they were sharing the bedcovers and neither could figure out how they came to be, and compromising in the fact that they each had a hand somewhere on (skin) the other person. Not to mention the fact that his mother had found them in bed together. Just thinking about their position made him redden further. And he didn’t want to be looking at any of them anymore… this was a rather embarrassing predicament to be in. Not only was the discussion heading into the territory about them sleeping together, but he realized that he was having this discussion in front of his girlfriend, and not only her, but he was also having it with his best friends who by default happened to be girls, and in front of his girlfriend’s brother, who was staring at him very closely while not speaking yet was wearing an annoying smirk. It was enough to unnerve any guy. With a small moan he buried his head deeply onto his folded arms and placed it on the tabletop. Could this get any more embarrassing, at the moment he didn’t think so.
Maria watched him in disbelief, and shot a knowing look to Liz who ventured a try. “Al-ex He shook his head… still buried.
Maria turned to look up at Isabel as she found herself getting more uncomfortable by the second. Alex had essentially stepped out of the conversation with his gesture and that left her. Sure enough, right on cue, “Isabel?” Maria’s intonation sounded. Isabel ducked her head and shook it. Why did she have to answer when Alex didn’t have to?
“Ok you two, what did you do?” Maria sing-songed accusatorily as she looked between the two members of the couple, as they got progressively more uncomfortable. “You’re both blushing…” Liz added in surprise as she looked between Alex whose ears were burning with a red hue, and then upwards at Isabel whose color had altered dramatically with that accusation… And who had crossed her arms on her chest to send out the protective vibe. “And furiously at that I might add.” Maria stated looking directly at Isabel. “Again I ask… ‘What’d I miss’?”
Three sets of eyes turned to stare at her and shaking her head, realizing that there was no way out, “Ok! I slept with him alright?” Isabel blurted out in a whine to further hers and Alex’s embarrassment, as she tossed her hair back, in an air of nonchalance.
Alex’s head snapped up with her statement, it really didn’t have a choice but to do so, seeing as Max rose from his seat on that declaration and leaned into Alex’s space, grabbing the collar of his shirt while loudly declaring, “You did what with my sister!!?” Isabel sharply turned to him, as she smacked his hands off her boyfriend, “Get your hands off of him Max, and get your mind out of the gutter. I didn’t sleep with him like that, because if I had, I sure wouldn’t be telling any of you like this…” Max released his grasp on Alex’s shirt and the tall boy sat down smoothing out the collar, chuckling nervously at the whole discourse.
Maria knowing Alex as well as she did knew he was still withholding information, as he was the one flushing this time. “And as interesting as that revelation is, Isabel..” She smirked while placing a thoughtful hand on the side of her cheek, “And it is most definitely interesting. And I most definitely want details later that’s still not it.” Maria turned rapidly to him, “Blushing Beauty, you’re on.”
“We are not going there, Maria.” Alex raised his hands in surrender, as he cleared his throat. “Nothing at all happened… It was no different than Michael being at your house the other morning.” he defended them emphatically, while trying to deflect the entire situation to another person’s embarrassing morning.
Maria didn’t take the bait… “And yet I wasn’t blushing. There is definitely more than Michael being at my house. That was absolutely nothing, and its not like we’re a couple most of the time.” She threw her hands about as she animatedly used them to emphasize her speech. “But you two,” she semi-waved between them, “I mean here you were dating secretly, which I think we kept a secret very well if you ask me.” She looked at Liz for an assenting nod, which she received.” Max turned to look at Isabel, it wasn’t exactly surprising but how long had that been going on? It was still news to him… Maria continued prattling on making Isabel wish she could muzzle the girl, “And then there was this whole ‘I love you’ display at the concert last weekend… the whole town is still talking about that…” She did the hand toss of go figure, “So… This is definitely more than even your first night in the woods. That was just cute puppy love type stuff.” She shook her head, as she was on a roll, “So last night, you two did something or thought something, or “dreamed” something. But something happened, something that would make you both” directing the comment right at Isabel. “Embarrassed.” She finished looking directly at Alex. Then smirking knowingly at them she let the rant abate. Isabel stood there speechless. Maybe Liz didn’t research her, but Maria didn’t miss anything.
And to use Maria’s line from earlier in the week, Alex quickly dead-panned, “Imagine my mother, finding her in MY bed. This morning.” Everyone turned to stare at him. Including Isabel. He’d really done it hadn’t he? … After she told them they slept together, he told them they were found by his mother… now both of their embarrassment was complete.
Max jumped in, “You were found by your mother?” The look could almost be described at threatening. And Liz giggled nervously.
So Alex threw back bravely, “What about you? You were at Liz’s all night so its no big deal right?”
This time it was Maria’s eyes that went wide in understanding. ‘And he throws it back?’ “How did she find you Al-ex?” Maria asked in an innuendo, whilst her face bore an understanding look, and a sly smile. There was something about how together they were, feeding off each other’s embarrassment, neither wanting to discuss that morning.
“Ummm together, asleep…” Alex choked out knowing his death could be imminent seeing how her bother still hadn’t gotten up yet and was sitting directly across from him, staring firmly at him.
He finally spoke, “I don’t see how sitting outside in the freezing cold and talking to Liz outside all night on her balcony is nearly the same as being found sleeping together.”
Alex immediately said in his defense with his hands raised in surrender, “We were clothed, completely…” As Isabel stifled a choked giggle at the end of the table, while she mumbled, “Some of us more than others.” Alex was continuing simultaneously, “She was in jeans and a sweater.”
All of a sudden what she had said registered and an exclamation of “What!?” was shouted as both Alex and Max turned to her in that moment and questioned in unison. She bit her lip and said, “Oh he was clothed alright, but its what he sleeps in… Just boxers and a shirt.” She serenely smiled, letting her thoughts wander back to their morning and the sleeping arrangement and the kissing…
“Too much information Isabel,” groaned Max. “I do not want to nor do I need to know what your boyfriend sleeps in. And I don’t want to witness that look on your face ever again.” Turning back to the man in question, “You’d better not...” Max spoke slow and under his breath.
“Yeah well… ‘Isabel is a force of nature,’ try to stop her.” Alex quipped and quickly found himself in pain in his temple.
“I seem to recall that with almost every instance so far, you were the one who initiated it.” Isabel had sidled back into the booth and delivered a sharp, palmed blow to the side of his head.
She tilted her head and smiled innocently. “Lets go Max. Alex, I’ll ‘see’ you when the grounding’s over…” she leaned over and added insult to injury by kissing the exact spot she had just smacked, and slid out of the booth. Max stood and escorted her out the door.
**********
Inside the two girls regaled with laughter and turned to Alex… “You so have to tell us what happened? … and “Oh poor baby how’s your head?” and “Do you need ice to take away that boo-boo? Or did that kiss do it?”
That just set them off again as they couldn’t believe what they had just witnessed.
Alex grinned his wry grin , as he moaned, “You two are of no help… what is this, the girl’s club? Girlfriend abuse… I just suffered girlfriend abuse and you tow sit there laughing at me…. You’re no help…. I seriously need to get some guy friends…”
That made them laugh all the harder. “I’m sure Michael’s available,” Maria choked out through peeling laughter…
“Oh sure… another guy who suffers girlfriend abuse… of course you’d let me have him when you’re done with him… of course you would… “
**********
When Max and Isabel arrived home a few minutes later they found everything to be in place and Michael was sitting on the couch, once again watching TV.
Their parents had been in the kitchen waiting for them. “Come on in, we need to talk for a minute.”
“Right.” They said as Isabel preceded Max into the other room.
“So Izzy, How was your date?” Diane teased.
She laughed, “I’m going to kill you Mom. I wasn’t in the slightest ready for him, and I had all of minus seven minutes to prepare.” She pointed to her outfit, “Not bad if I do say so myself, but this is what I managed to throw on in those moments. Don’t do that again alright?” She good-naturedly teased her mother feeling very free.
Diane laughed. “And how did you come to be brought home by Max and not Alex?” Michael had stepped almost into the kitchen to see how the family dynamics were run in a more normal setting as he leaned against the doorframe arms across his chest and feet crossed, his presence was however undetected.
Isabel started to give the quick rundown of the evening, “We went for dinner, a movie, and then to the crash for dessert. Max caught up with us at the Crash.” Since I would need a ride, obviously Max brought me home.” She left out all the details of what had brought Max there.
“I’m glad you had fun, and now so that you two don’t get the impression that the grounding is over, it has officially started.” Mom stated seriously in a tone that held no argument.
They looked at their parents, in unison, “Yeah.” Isabel finished, “We figured as much.”
Diane then stepped into the more serious end of the conversation with the pleasantries over… “Isabel we need to tell you that Michael has informed us of his situation and the reason he is now staying with us. Thanks for trusting us with him Honey. And before you panic for any reason, we also need to let you know that Sheriff Valenti is involved with Michael’s case and as of this evening was over here to take statements and things. He will probably be around a bit for awhile OK sweetheart?”
Isabel raised an eyebrow and turned to look at Max. He sheepishly returned the look, with a wry grin and imperceptible shrug.
The Philip added a bit, “Everyone is and will be fine… Alright”
“Sure.” They nodded. More than glad that nothing had happened.
Michael watched from his stance not yet having let his presence be known and he realized that they reassured her before they gave her the news. All he could think was that maybe it really was the right thing that Isabel did when she involved them in their alien abyss. They had their daughter’s best interests at heart and indirectly Max as well. He wasn’t ready to let them into the knowledge of his default membership to the “club” however. Tonight had been taxing enough.
He stepped in and feigned surprise at Isabel’s fear of the sheriff, though he understood it all too well, for he too shared it in full measure. “What’s this about Isabel and the Sheriff?”
“Oh Michael. Umm… We didn’t hear you come into the kitchen.” Diane stumbled for a second.
Michael never one to mince words just dove right in, “Well, you just told her not to worry or something, what’s that all about?”
Isabel shot him a “drop it” look as she placated him, “Michael. It’s nothing. I’m sure you don’t need to hear the details of my “criminal record.” It’s not at all interesting.”
Chewing on his carrot standing there interrupting Michael added, “You never told me you have a record?”
“I don’t…” She threw back
“So what’s the problem?” Michael was pressing her and she really did not feel like getting into it with him and so she sent him the patented, very familiar ‘you’ve gone too far look’ and smugly smiled when her dad stepped in.
“Michael, She doesn’t want to discuss it obviously.”
“Why? There’s nothing to hide?”
“Michael. People don’t like their inner lives pulled apart anymore than you did. Friends don’t always share everything. Isabel has her reasons for not liking the Sheriff. But if she doesn’t care to share, she’s not expected too. You however, are expected to drop it instantly.” Philip ordered.
“Right.” Michael shut up instantly.
“Ok. And need I even ask if there are any more deep dark hidden secrets that we need to deal with? Anything else that needs to come to our attention?” Philip knew there was more to the whole exchange than what they were witnessing. But he also knew that these kids only talked when they were ready.
The three teens conferred through silent communication that bordered on instantaneous, and then collectively looked up. Max spoke for the group. “We’re good.”
“Right. Well we’ve got a case to work on obviously and you all have a good night of sleep to grab, considering all of you are grounded for the weekend and likely beyond. I might need some help with the yard tomorrow.” Philip laughed.
“Right…” the three kids looked up. They were on yard detail together.
“Well goodnight guys and stay home tonight. We’ll be checking.” Diane teased as she and her husband stepped out of the kitchen and left the kids to themselves to converse and share the events of the evening.
“Yeah goodnight.” They mumbled as they watched their parents leave the room.
TBC……..
******************
And a short A/N. First sorry this took so long to get to you, but I had lots to do on it.
Second please send me your e-mail addresses once again so that I might be able to notify you of updates. I DO NOT have them anymore.
With the holidays soon approaching, I will wish to have your physical addresses as well to send you a card. And then I would like to know when your birthdays are as well, so that I can wish you a Happy Birthday on line.
So if you can assist with this I will ever so grateful.
Thank you.
Mt Gazer/Velvet Skye Rhonda
In the meanwhile Max had returned home from work later that night. But upon seeing the Sheriff’s Explorer in the driveway he had panicked and driven back into town. Back to the Crashdown where he was once again spending all his free time it seemed. He loved how it was right across the street from the UFO Center.
Inside the floors had been swept and mopped, the chairs were overturned on the tables and a young couple was dirtying the last dishes of the day. Isabel and Alex had stopped in for a late night snack, Root Beer Floats, well, Root Beer for Alex. Isabel’s was a stranger concoction of Cherry Coke with Tabasco, as well as the vanilla ice cream. The Crashdown was officially closed, but these two teens were exceptions to any rules. Maria and Liz were dutifully finishing up; Liz was at the register tallying the day’s profits and Maria was finalizing the putting away of the clean dishes from the last load in the dishwasher. They would hand wash the soda glasses and be completely done for the day soon.
A frantic banging was head on the glass and Liz hurried over to see who it was. Max stood outside and was quickly let in. He seemed a bit shaken to put it mildly.
“Max?” she questioned as he blew through the door heading straight for his sister’s table, bypassing her altogether. He had spotted the familiar blonde hair as he entered. Liz followed him at a distance and stopped by Maria who was also watching the scene with interest.
“Oh! God! What Now?” Isabel demanded as she saw her brother’s furtive glancing around for any adults or others who were not privy to the secret.
“Isabel,” saying her name in a low-toned panic placed her worry on alert considering she was right there. “Have you been home tonight?” He questioned as he slid in the seat across from his sister, moving Alex to the side in a single motion
Maria rolled her eyes and thought to herself, ‘Will this boy ever learn manners?’
“Max!!” Alex barked as he was displaced.
“No.” She shook her head. “Alex took me out for an impromptu date tonight.” Her eyes glanced over at her boyfriend.
“Really?” Max asked in a tone of disbelief. Which she quickly curtailed, “I’m here aren’t I?”
“So you have no idea what’s going on then?” He asked her curiously.
She did not like the turn this conversation seemed to be taking, Isabel said shaking her head slowly while she tried to drag more information out of him, Swallowing nervously she looked into his face. “What are you taking about? What is going on Max?”
He shrugged and shook his head worriedly, “I just went home after work, but I didn’t stay.” He informed her.
“Why?” Isabel was now watching him carefully. And it was at this point the girl’s decided to forgo whatever task they had been attending to and to join the conversation, whether they were invited or not. They moved to stand nearer the table but still not intruding on the private conversation. Although they could hear parts of it.
“Because, Max stated, “Sheriff Valenti’s car was there. Parked in the driveway.”
A momentary fear flashed across Isabel’s eyes, but she tried to rein it in, unsuccessfully. “At our house?” Isabel asked in a surprised tone of worry. “What do you think happened? Do you think Michael got into some kind of trouble?? I haven’t seen him since last night.” ‘Is Nasedo here? Is Hank still around, or was he “killed”? Is Michael being arrested? Did he do anything last night? Where was he? Damn... No answers.’ She pushed her float away, shaking her head slightly and biting her lip almost imperceptibly in thought.
At the same time Alex was watching the emotions playing in her eyes, its like they were progressively darkening with increased moisture each second and a new worry was overtaking each previous one. She was reaching panic with the last moment’s thought. He reached his hand out to touch hers, as she started to visibly bite her lip and stare at the table.
And still at the same time, after she worriedly answered Max he replied, “I don’t know if anything’s up with Michael. I didn’t stay there long enough to find out. I got home and the sheriff was there. Apparently we’re not,” he looked up and held her eyes for a moment. “I didn’t even know you were here, last I recall we were grounded. Seeing the sheriff’s car and knowing what all has been going on with you, I panicked. I just raced right over here, I don’t even know exactly why, but when I saw you…” He sighed and slowed down his rapid-fire speech. “I am just so glad to see that you are here with Alex and the girls. I think I’d be really worried if you were at home considering ‘everything.’
“Yeah.” She tried to smile, to reassure him, but it wasn’t working, she had too many unknowns to work from again. She swallowed, and played with the fear that was more stemming from the past timeline but causing her heart to quicken right now. “Oh God,” she choked out. “Did we do the right thing Max?” She actually needed him to reassure her at this moment.
Max shook his head. “You’re the one who came up with this plan.” He looked at her skeptically, “And now you ask me that?” He sent back dubiously. “Isabel? You assured me this would work…” Max’s worry did not give him any room to comfort his sister, he was worried for his brother Michael, who was nowhere to be seen since early that morning when he ran away. And for some reason Valenti was at their house right now, and Isabel sure hadn’t done anything alien in awhile. Max was confused and worried.
“Max, I…” Isabel faltered, as her face fell. She couldn’t answer him. She really didn’t know. This timeline got more convoluted every time she turned around. Just when she thought it might be doing the same, it wasn’t, or was it? It’s not like it was that great last time when this whole instance occurred in the other timeline. Tears were glistening in the corners of her eyes.
That was all he needed. “Move Max.” Alex pushed him directly off the bench and went to Isabel’s side, sliding in beside her he wrapped his arm tightly around her shoulder and pulled her close. She buried her head into his shoulder unashamedly and held on to him for a second while regaining her sense of composure.
Maria was suffering an empathic overload and couldn’t handle the emotions pouring forth from the trio. First there was anxiety, of a palpable nature pouring off of Isabel. Maria could feel the soothing and calming waves of Alex’s concern and care. And then even Max was registering some kind of frightened confusion. None of it made any sense really to Maria, and it wasn’t like these emotions were clearly displayed on their parties: but rather the fact that Maria was being hit with their whole force because she was well versed on reading people from all her mother’s training and emotions were something that she was especially perceptive on. (Might explain some of the fights she gets in with Michael, Overwhelming sensations of emotions from one whose guarding them and no outlet for either of them to release) She had to get in here, so she slid into the seat, now forcing Max over in the manner he had done to Alex a few minutes earlier.
Liz grabbed an overturned chair from the nearby table and plunked it at the table’s edge and she too joined the session.
Alex whispered as her head buried against his shoulder. “Ok Isabel. Just Breathe. It’s ok.” He said a bit louder for all to hear. “You got Michael out of there.” He lifted her chin to glance into her worry filled eyes. “You did what you had to do.” He gave her a quick kiss to her forehead. And in a gesture of extreme understanding, and an unspoken code to the three who were there the night Isabel was hit, he stroked her right cheek as he talked gently to her. “You were incredibly brave coming up with a plan that fast when you discovered what was going on.” His fingers were reassuring her with every stroke along the cheekbone that a few days ago had been fractured. “And implementing it.” He rubbed the joint with his thumb as he spoke directly to her, “Michael is safe thanks to your quick thinking.”
She gave him her complete trust, in front of Max she whispered worriedly, “But Valenti. What could he possibly want?”
Maria could sense her hesitation but she wasn’t sure why. Isabel was physically worried. Where a few minutes ago it was empathically deciphered, now Isabel was just frightened. Anyone, even without any empathic abilities, would be able to read the girl’s state now. Her hidden fears had become evident to all.
Alex couldn’t handle Isabel’s emotions anymore either. He knew that there must be some ‘past’ mixed with present to send her over like this. He looked up at her brother while still holding her securely. “Max?” He directly questioned, “Were your parents there?”
Max looked puzzled for a second “I believe so.” And replaying the event in his mind he nodded in the affirmative, “Yes. They were parked in the driveway.”
Alex sighed in a relieved manner, which caused Isabel to stare curiously at him.
“Then this might have absolutely nothing to do with any ‘Czechoslovakian’ issue.” His word choice not lost on any of them. He looked at the assembled and continued, “If they were there, your parents, we just have to assume that they called Valenti due to Michael’s injuries.”
“But Michael hasn’t come back.” Isabel fretted. He turned to her, “Your mom did have me take you out tonight so that they could do something very important for work. And Michael is not here, so maybe that’s what it was…” He smiled at both her and Max. “We’re going to have to assume that for now.” Taking a breath he continued, “I mean why else would they have me get you completely out of the house, Ya’ know? And Valenti’s a cop. He’s probably just taking statements or something, you know, doing his job? I’m sure we have nothing to worry about.” He gave them each a smile and Isabel a squeeze.
“You’re sure?” Isabel questioned in almost a little girl tone. The sound clenched Alex’s heart that she had anything to fear in her life. And he nodded with an unbelievable calm flowing through him, “Yeah I am. Surprisingly.” He sort of chuckled with his admission.
Maria knew that her next question would not be well received, but she and Liz still hadn’t been informed as to why Isabel and Alex went to Clovis a couple weeks prior, and they were still awaiting answers. And Isabel’s fear was almost palpable when Max had rushed in several moments earlier. Maria sighed and reached out her hand to clasp in her friend’s, “Why are you so worried about Valenti Isabel?”
“Because he’s following me.” Isabel answered caustically, “And I’m not talking fun and games Follow-the Leader here. He’s watching me… tailing me…”
“What do you mean?” Asked Liz as she asked her first question of the conversation.
“He told me that he was.” Isabel turned to look at the brunette, “He also said, that he’d catch me “in the act” sometime, and that he’s keeping a file on me and every unexplained thing that I do… that’s enough don’t you think?”
“When did he do that?” Liz questioned again.
“Remember the rave?” Isabel pointed out the timeframe.
“Yeah, of course.”
“Remember how we were pulled out of class and talked to him a couple days later?”
“Definitely.” The girls said in unison, sitting on the edge of their seats.
“Ok then. Yeah…” She felt Alex squeeze her shoulder, “Well that day he questioned us at school he told me that.”
Liz kept on with the questions, “So? That’s why you were so shaken up when he interrogated you?” She asked in her limited understanding.
Isabel shook her head. “No!!”
In unison the girl’s echoed her, “No?”
“No.”
That was his parting shot. He has a video-tape,” she let out a sad and heavy sigh, “of Alex and me dancing….” She swallowed deeply while she stared at the tabletop while she stated. “Of me using my powers.” She whispered so softly. Looking up into their eyes she said, “He’s notified the FBI.”
“What!?” Maria jumped in as the two girls turned to stare at her.
“There were some undercover agents here a couple of weeks ago; I took her to Clovis so she wouldn’t have to deal with it.” Alex volunteered.
Liz shook her head, this didn’t make much sense. “How do you know? I mean that there were agents sure, how do you know that… But also that Valenti had anything to do with it? Isn’t that just speculation?” She threw out.
Isabel turned to glare at the petite brunette as she hissed out, “Being who I am... We are…” Isabel harshly whispered. “We have to be alert and careful every moment of every day. Anyone could be a potential enemy. But…. I could feel it, they just felt wrong. They were here, and then they were there.” She crossed her arms on her chest in an obviously agitated manner as she leaned backwards heavily unto the seat.
Isabel had thoroughly confused the two girls who seemed to have a very limited vocabulary regarding this unfolding drama as they once again queried in unison. “What?”
“There.” Said Alex assuredly as he rejoined the conversation. “The sheriff station.” He looked at his girls. “Walking out with a video-tape, and a file. Some of the same people, and it wasn’t a regular tape they had their hands on I guarantee it… they were clutching it like it was the prize of a lifetime.”
“Again... What!!?” Asked Maria.
“That’s why Alex took me out of town.” Isabel continued with the tale and the girl’s hung onto it as if she were telling an engrossing novel. “They, the FBI, or some kind of agents at least… have that tape.” Remembering the fear of that day she just softly whispered, “A tape of my powers... in action.”
Liz was in pain for her newest girlfriend, “You must be plain terrified of Valenti then huh Isabel? That he would do that?”
Trying not to act that it affected her as much as it did, Isabel shrugged her shoulders, “I guess.” She stated rather nonchalantly.
“If he comes anywhere near you, I’ll hurt him. Its not like you are dangerous or anything…” Isabel shook her head with a slight smile, a couple months ago the girl was terrified of her. “And to think that my mother is dating him… I need to get her and all of us away from him… He had no right… ” Maria started to get worked up.
“Calm down Maria. Really you don’t want to get involved in this. Just let things go… Leave your mother alone unless you really want to inform her of everything...” Alex tried to get her back to rational, and thought to himself that she was doing remarkably well for having lost the bet and having a week of crazy alien happenings to deal with. She was certainly trying to hold it in check.
Maria was ready to launch into an unchecked tirade or something however and so Liz jumped up quickly, “Well then, I know my girlfriend here is very smart indeed,” said Liz with a kiss to Alex’s temple. Turning her attention back to Isabel she softly and gently said, “You’re parents aren’t going to let anything happen to you. They wouldn’t have let Sheriff Valenti into their house tonight if they deemed him even a remote threat to either of you.” She looked between the alien siblings as she made her comment. “I assume they do know everything you’ve just shared right?” Isabel nodded.
Maria jumped in and clasped her other hand over the one that was already holding Isabel’s, looking the taller blonde right in the eyes. “You’re fine Isabel. We’ve got your back … You just keep on walking forward.” With a small squeeze she disengaged her hands and in the same motion turned and thumped Max on the chest with the back of her hand, as she proceeded to reprimand him. “And the next time, you need to see what is going on your house before you turn up here panicking and scaring your sister like that…” Max looked surprised, but she wasn’t done. “Couldn’t you feel her worry Max?? You are completely dense buddy if you couldn’t tap into that.” The words tumbled out rapidly and then without skipping a beat she turned sweetly and compassionately back to Isabel, “Now you call me girlfriend if it’s anything bad. But I’ll bet its just fine.” Isabel nodded.
“Well. Now that we’ve got that all taken care of, we ought to be getting home, before Mom and Dad send out a search party.” Max teased while rubbing the spot where Maria had thwacked him. She had a powerful punch behind that tiny frame he realized.
“Ok. We’ll clean up here and expect to hear all about it tomorrow ok Isabel?” Said Liz with a gentle smile.
Isabel looked sidelong at Alex. He was staring at the tabletop ever since Liz had mentioned the morrow. “No... We can’t…” Isabel stated.
The all too familiar question was again asked, “What?”
She shrugged, “We’re grounded. Max and me.” She declared.
“Ok, No Big. Sorry for that, but we’ll see you then right Alex?” Maria added.
Isabel drew her glance away, and Alex looked up. “That would be a no!! I have a date with a lovely garage all weekend.” He added flirtatiously. Sighing, “I’m on garage detail. Alone.”
“WHY?” Maria dragged out the word as she glanced between the two “Why are your parents punishing you?” She added as she pointed her finger between the couple. Max looked up and smirked… ‘Alex was being punished?’
Isabel got a nervous smile as she bent her head and shook it while a warm feeling crept over her face. She removed herself from Alex’s arms and motioned him out so that she could stand to leave. He allowed her to without a hesitation, getting out of the seat so that she could.
‘Ok! He didn’t try to keep her in the booth. And come-on, they’re an item, and everyone knows it, so no goodbye kiss. Not even a little peck?’ Maria knew that there a story behind this exchange and so she went for the kill... “What’d I miss?” She was direct and she knew the two were definitely involved together somehow.
Max looked over at his sister and smirked yet again. He himself was not aware of how their morning had been but he couldn’t wait for the story either.
Isabel cleared her throat (a mannerism not lost on either girl) and shrugged, “Michael ran away last night.” Isabel stated, standing next to the table...
“Ok?… So?…” Maria took a breath and blurted out, “That’s so not the story… keep going.” Maria looked upwards at the taller girl.
Isabel ducked her head and chuckled. “Max went to Liz’s. I went to Alex’s. That’s it… Come on Max…” She leaned over Maria to grab her brother’s arm and was unprepared for what came next.
Quick as a serpent Maria’s hand darted reflexively and grabbed the taller girl’s wrist and held it to the table. Isabel tried to shrug it off but Maria would not let go, she had the grip of a viper. Isabel glared menacingly at her, but she was unaffected by the taller girl’s withering stare. Instead Maria glared back at her with her own matched defiance and a raised queried eyebrow. “Sure it is…” She said sarcastically. “Spill it Isabel, or I’ll get Blushing Beauty over here to spill,” she motioned to the silent Alex whose head was averted downwards staring at the table top while a distinctly red hue covered the tips of his ears as well as his face.
Alex so didn’t want to start this conversation, not that they’d done anything. But getting found in the morning in a somewhat compromising situation left him enough to be embarrassed about. Compromising in the fact that they were sharing the bedcovers and neither could figure out how they came to be, and compromising in the fact that they each had a hand somewhere on (skin) the other person. Not to mention the fact that his mother had found them in bed together. Just thinking about their position made him redden further. And he didn’t want to be looking at any of them anymore… this was a rather embarrassing predicament to be in. Not only was the discussion heading into the territory about them sleeping together, but he realized that he was having this discussion in front of his girlfriend, and not only her, but he was also having it with his best friends who by default happened to be girls, and in front of his girlfriend’s brother, who was staring at him very closely while not speaking yet was wearing an annoying smirk. It was enough to unnerve any guy. With a small moan he buried his head deeply onto his folded arms and placed it on the tabletop. Could this get any more embarrassing, at the moment he didn’t think so.
Maria watched him in disbelief, and shot a knowing look to Liz who ventured a try. “Al-ex He shook his head… still buried.
Maria turned to look up at Isabel as she found herself getting more uncomfortable by the second. Alex had essentially stepped out of the conversation with his gesture and that left her. Sure enough, right on cue, “Isabel?” Maria’s intonation sounded. Isabel ducked her head and shook it. Why did she have to answer when Alex didn’t have to?
“Ok you two, what did you do?” Maria sing-songed accusatorily as she looked between the two members of the couple, as they got progressively more uncomfortable. “You’re both blushing…” Liz added in surprise as she looked between Alex whose ears were burning with a red hue, and then upwards at Isabel whose color had altered dramatically with that accusation… And who had crossed her arms on her chest to send out the protective vibe. “And furiously at that I might add.” Maria stated looking directly at Isabel. “Again I ask… ‘What’d I miss’?”
Three sets of eyes turned to stare at her and shaking her head, realizing that there was no way out, “Ok! I slept with him alright?” Isabel blurted out in a whine to further hers and Alex’s embarrassment, as she tossed her hair back, in an air of nonchalance.
Alex’s head snapped up with her statement, it really didn’t have a choice but to do so, seeing as Max rose from his seat on that declaration and leaned into Alex’s space, grabbing the collar of his shirt while loudly declaring, “You did what with my sister!!?” Isabel sharply turned to him, as she smacked his hands off her boyfriend, “Get your hands off of him Max, and get your mind out of the gutter. I didn’t sleep with him like that, because if I had, I sure wouldn’t be telling any of you like this…” Max released his grasp on Alex’s shirt and the tall boy sat down smoothing out the collar, chuckling nervously at the whole discourse.
Maria knowing Alex as well as she did knew he was still withholding information, as he was the one flushing this time. “And as interesting as that revelation is, Isabel..” She smirked while placing a thoughtful hand on the side of her cheek, “And it is most definitely interesting. And I most definitely want details later that’s still not it.” Maria turned rapidly to him, “Blushing Beauty, you’re on.”
“We are not going there, Maria.” Alex raised his hands in surrender, as he cleared his throat. “Nothing at all happened… It was no different than Michael being at your house the other morning.” he defended them emphatically, while trying to deflect the entire situation to another person’s embarrassing morning.
Maria didn’t take the bait… “And yet I wasn’t blushing. There is definitely more than Michael being at my house. That was absolutely nothing, and its not like we’re a couple most of the time.” She threw her hands about as she animatedly used them to emphasize her speech. “But you two,” she semi-waved between them, “I mean here you were dating secretly, which I think we kept a secret very well if you ask me.” She looked at Liz for an assenting nod, which she received.” Max turned to look at Isabel, it wasn’t exactly surprising but how long had that been going on? It was still news to him… Maria continued prattling on making Isabel wish she could muzzle the girl, “And then there was this whole ‘I love you’ display at the concert last weekend… the whole town is still talking about that…” She did the hand toss of go figure, “So… This is definitely more than even your first night in the woods. That was just cute puppy love type stuff.” She shook her head, as she was on a roll, “So last night, you two did something or thought something, or “dreamed” something. But something happened, something that would make you both” directing the comment right at Isabel. “Embarrassed.” She finished looking directly at Alex. Then smirking knowingly at them she let the rant abate. Isabel stood there speechless. Maybe Liz didn’t research her, but Maria didn’t miss anything.
And to use Maria’s line from earlier in the week, Alex quickly dead-panned, “Imagine my mother, finding her in MY bed. This morning.” Everyone turned to stare at him. Including Isabel. He’d really done it hadn’t he? … After she told them they slept together, he told them they were found by his mother… now both of their embarrassment was complete.
Max jumped in, “You were found by your mother?” The look could almost be described at threatening. And Liz giggled nervously.
So Alex threw back bravely, “What about you? You were at Liz’s all night so its no big deal right?”
This time it was Maria’s eyes that went wide in understanding. ‘And he throws it back?’ “How did she find you Al-ex?” Maria asked in an innuendo, whilst her face bore an understanding look, and a sly smile. There was something about how together they were, feeding off each other’s embarrassment, neither wanting to discuss that morning.
“Ummm together, asleep…” Alex choked out knowing his death could be imminent seeing how her bother still hadn’t gotten up yet and was sitting directly across from him, staring firmly at him.
He finally spoke, “I don’t see how sitting outside in the freezing cold and talking to Liz outside all night on her balcony is nearly the same as being found sleeping together.”
Alex immediately said in his defense with his hands raised in surrender, “We were clothed, completely…” As Isabel stifled a choked giggle at the end of the table, while she mumbled, “Some of us more than others.” Alex was continuing simultaneously, “She was in jeans and a sweater.”
All of a sudden what she had said registered and an exclamation of “What!?” was shouted as both Alex and Max turned to her in that moment and questioned in unison. She bit her lip and said, “Oh he was clothed alright, but its what he sleeps in… Just boxers and a shirt.” She serenely smiled, letting her thoughts wander back to their morning and the sleeping arrangement and the kissing…
“Too much information Isabel,” groaned Max. “I do not want to nor do I need to know what your boyfriend sleeps in. And I don’t want to witness that look on your face ever again.” Turning back to the man in question, “You’d better not...” Max spoke slow and under his breath.
“Yeah well… ‘Isabel is a force of nature,’ try to stop her.” Alex quipped and quickly found himself in pain in his temple.
“I seem to recall that with almost every instance so far, you were the one who initiated it.” Isabel had sidled back into the booth and delivered a sharp, palmed blow to the side of his head.
She tilted her head and smiled innocently. “Lets go Max. Alex, I’ll ‘see’ you when the grounding’s over…” she leaned over and added insult to injury by kissing the exact spot she had just smacked, and slid out of the booth. Max stood and escorted her out the door.
**********
Inside the two girls regaled with laughter and turned to Alex… “You so have to tell us what happened? … and “Oh poor baby how’s your head?” and “Do you need ice to take away that boo-boo? Or did that kiss do it?”
That just set them off again as they couldn’t believe what they had just witnessed.
Alex grinned his wry grin , as he moaned, “You two are of no help… what is this, the girl’s club? Girlfriend abuse… I just suffered girlfriend abuse and you tow sit there laughing at me…. You’re no help…. I seriously need to get some guy friends…”
That made them laugh all the harder. “I’m sure Michael’s available,” Maria choked out through peeling laughter…
“Oh sure… another guy who suffers girlfriend abuse… of course you’d let me have him when you’re done with him… of course you would… “
**********
When Max and Isabel arrived home a few minutes later they found everything to be in place and Michael was sitting on the couch, once again watching TV.
Their parents had been in the kitchen waiting for them. “Come on in, we need to talk for a minute.”
“Right.” They said as Isabel preceded Max into the other room.
“So Izzy, How was your date?” Diane teased.
She laughed, “I’m going to kill you Mom. I wasn’t in the slightest ready for him, and I had all of minus seven minutes to prepare.” She pointed to her outfit, “Not bad if I do say so myself, but this is what I managed to throw on in those moments. Don’t do that again alright?” She good-naturedly teased her mother feeling very free.
Diane laughed. “And how did you come to be brought home by Max and not Alex?” Michael had stepped almost into the kitchen to see how the family dynamics were run in a more normal setting as he leaned against the doorframe arms across his chest and feet crossed, his presence was however undetected.
Isabel started to give the quick rundown of the evening, “We went for dinner, a movie, and then to the crash for dessert. Max caught up with us at the Crash.” Since I would need a ride, obviously Max brought me home.” She left out all the details of what had brought Max there.
“I’m glad you had fun, and now so that you two don’t get the impression that the grounding is over, it has officially started.” Mom stated seriously in a tone that held no argument.
They looked at their parents, in unison, “Yeah.” Isabel finished, “We figured as much.”
Diane then stepped into the more serious end of the conversation with the pleasantries over… “Isabel we need to tell you that Michael has informed us of his situation and the reason he is now staying with us. Thanks for trusting us with him Honey. And before you panic for any reason, we also need to let you know that Sheriff Valenti is involved with Michael’s case and as of this evening was over here to take statements and things. He will probably be around a bit for awhile OK sweetheart?”
Isabel raised an eyebrow and turned to look at Max. He sheepishly returned the look, with a wry grin and imperceptible shrug.
The Philip added a bit, “Everyone is and will be fine… Alright”
“Sure.” They nodded. More than glad that nothing had happened.
Michael watched from his stance not yet having let his presence be known and he realized that they reassured her before they gave her the news. All he could think was that maybe it really was the right thing that Isabel did when she involved them in their alien abyss. They had their daughter’s best interests at heart and indirectly Max as well. He wasn’t ready to let them into the knowledge of his default membership to the “club” however. Tonight had been taxing enough.
He stepped in and feigned surprise at Isabel’s fear of the sheriff, though he understood it all too well, for he too shared it in full measure. “What’s this about Isabel and the Sheriff?”
“Oh Michael. Umm… We didn’t hear you come into the kitchen.” Diane stumbled for a second.
Michael never one to mince words just dove right in, “Well, you just told her not to worry or something, what’s that all about?”
Isabel shot him a “drop it” look as she placated him, “Michael. It’s nothing. I’m sure you don’t need to hear the details of my “criminal record.” It’s not at all interesting.”
Chewing on his carrot standing there interrupting Michael added, “You never told me you have a record?”
“I don’t…” She threw back
“So what’s the problem?” Michael was pressing her and she really did not feel like getting into it with him and so she sent him the patented, very familiar ‘you’ve gone too far look’ and smugly smiled when her dad stepped in.
“Michael, She doesn’t want to discuss it obviously.”
“Why? There’s nothing to hide?”
“Michael. People don’t like their inner lives pulled apart anymore than you did. Friends don’t always share everything. Isabel has her reasons for not liking the Sheriff. But if she doesn’t care to share, she’s not expected too. You however, are expected to drop it instantly.” Philip ordered.
“Right.” Michael shut up instantly.
“Ok. And need I even ask if there are any more deep dark hidden secrets that we need to deal with? Anything else that needs to come to our attention?” Philip knew there was more to the whole exchange than what they were witnessing. But he also knew that these kids only talked when they were ready.
The three teens conferred through silent communication that bordered on instantaneous, and then collectively looked up. Max spoke for the group. “We’re good.”
“Right. Well we’ve got a case to work on obviously and you all have a good night of sleep to grab, considering all of you are grounded for the weekend and likely beyond. I might need some help with the yard tomorrow.” Philip laughed.
“Right…” the three kids looked up. They were on yard detail together.
“Well goodnight guys and stay home tonight. We’ll be checking.” Diane teased as she and her husband stepped out of the kitchen and left the kids to themselves to converse and share the events of the evening.
“Yeah goodnight.” They mumbled as they watched their parents leave the room.
TBC……..
******************
And a short A/N. First sorry this took so long to get to you, but I had lots to do on it.
Second please send me your e-mail addresses once again so that I might be able to notify you of updates. I DO NOT have them anymore.
With the holidays soon approaching, I will wish to have your physical addresses as well to send you a card. And then I would like to know when your birthdays are as well, so that I can wish you a Happy Birthday on line.
So if you can assist with this I will ever so grateful.
Thank you.
Mt Gazer/Velvet Skye Rhonda