Roswell Fanatics

Title: Children of Antar City




Disclaimer: "The characters of "Roswell" belong to Jason Katims, Melinda Metz, WB, and UPN. They are not mine and no infringement is intended."
Pairings/Couples/Category: M/L. Mi/Ma, A/I
Rating: Mature
Summary: This is the sequel to “Restoring Antar City” It follows the lives of the three couples and their children. Of course, there will be some angst. “Restoring Antar City" can be found at: viewtopic.php?t=11323

If you don't want to resd the first fic, it ended with King Alex Whitman planning to marry Vilandra, Max and liz were together, Micheal and Maria were together and all three women were pregnant. Kivar and Tess had been defeated and are both dead.

Banner: by c_which

Author's Note: I wasn't originally planning on a sequel but since I had a few requests and I enjoyed your feedback so much, here it is! Please let me know what you think.


Prologue

Max groaned as he ran up the stairs to the bedroom he shared with his wife Liz as fast as his legs could take him.

“Here’s the strawberry ice cream you wanted and the macadamia nut cookies and the lemonade.” He yelled panting as he opened the door to find Liz asleep and snoring on the couch.

Max chuckled. Just a few minutes ago she had been screaming at him in a panic. She had to have strawberry ice cream, macadamia cookies and lemonade and she had to have them now. This is how she had been the last few weeks. She had crazy cravings and was extremely demanding.

Max watched her sleep. She was so beautiful. They had gotten married a few weeks after Alex had taken back the throne. It wasn’t a big affair; the whole ordeal with Kivar had been enough excitement to last them for the rest of their lives. It had just been the six of them plus Kyle and his mother had come up from Cordova. She had given Liz her wedding dress to wear. It had been the happiest day of his life. A few weeks later Alex and Isabelle had married, Vilandra taking the title of Queen and after that Maria and Michael had tied the knot as well.

She was so huge now. It was hard for her to sleep, her back hurt, her feet hurt, she had to pee all the time. Liz was due in 2 weeks time which was good because he didn’t know how much more of this running around he could take. He couldn’t wait for his daughter to be born, couldn’t wait to hold her in his arms for the first time.

Max decided to take advantage of this time while Liz was sleeping. He set the ice cream down on the coffee table knowing she would have a fit when she woke up and found it had melted. It would be worth it to get a short break he thought as he took off to find his brother Kyle.


- - - - - - -- - - -- - - - - -- - -- - - - -- - - -

A few minutes later Max had rounded up Kyle, Alex and Michael and they had headed out to play a round of golf on the palaces grounds.

“This was a great idea Max” Michael said. “I really needed to get away from all the estrogen in the palace.”

“I know I love Isabelle dearly” Alex added “But sometimes it’s just too much, I never seem to get a rest. I mean I can’t throw my responsibilities of King aside just because I’m going to be a dad”

“The other day Maria got mad at me for being late from work. She demanded I leave but when I tried to leave she screamed at me for leaving. No matter what I do I just can’t get anything right.” He sighed.

“Well Liz is 3 months farther along than Maria or Isabelle so you just wait. She can’t even touch her own feet now. She keeps complaining that she’s not attractive.” Max smiled “Although that’s not always a bad thing” He smirked.

“What do you mean?” Alex asked.

“I get to spend a lot of time showing her just how beautiful she is, if you know what I mean.”

“I know “ Michael added. “Maria is hornier than she has ever been. Of course that’s when she’s not nagging at me for something”

“What about Vilandra?” Max asked Alex.

“Gentleman, I cannot discuss the Queen that way” he said but then nodded and they all laughed.

“You know” Kyle had been quiet up until this point but now had something to say “When you three got married I was a little jealous and lonely but after seeing what you’ve had to go through the last few months I am not all that anxious to settle down. Not yet anyway.”

“Oh little brother. You will meet the woman for you one day soon and once you do, that will be it, you will be just as whipped as we are and completely powerless to stop it.”

They all laughed.

“Ok I’m going to tee of first.” Alex said.

“How come whenever we play he goes first?” Michael asked.

“Because I’m the King”

“Oh this is paradise” Max said.

“Let’s find a way to escape more often.” Michael said and they all nodded in unison.


- - - - - - - -- - - - - - -- - - - -- - - -- - - - -- - - - -


“Liz have you seen Michael?” Maria asked.

“No I haven’t.”

“I sent him to go pick up a few things for me over and hour ago and haven’t seen him since.”

“Maybe he got called away on work?” she suggested. Now that Michael was the head of security at the palace he had a lot more responsibly and was on call most of the time.

“I don’t think so. He uses that excuse a lot lately but I am starting to get the feeling he is just looking for ways to get a break from me.”

There was a knock at the door.

“It’s open” Liz hollered not wanting to get up from the position she was sitting in on the couch.

“Hi” It was Vilandra.

“Have either of you seen Alex by any chance?”

“Let me guess. You sent him on an errand and he seems to have disappeared?” Maria asked exchanging a look full of meaning with Liz.

“Yes. How did you know?” Vilandra asked.

“I’m starting to get a strange feeling here. I sent Max for ice cream an hour ago and must have fallen asleep. I woke up to find a bowl of melted ice cream on the coffee table, now Maria tells me Michael is missing and you tell me Alex is missing.”

“They are all together aren’t they? Taking a break” Vilandra asked.

“It’s not fair. We never get to take a break. We are pregnant 24/7” Liz pouted and they all burst out laughing.

“Well they better enjoy it while it lasts because once the babies are here they won’t have a moment to themselves.”

"It’s actually sort of nice not having them dote on us so much. Let’s take advantage of this time and watch a movie or something. I can’t get up, can you pick something?” she asked Maria who started rummaging through Liz’s DVD collection.


- - - - - - - - - - - -

I started two other new fic's today. Once is called Behind Bars and is on this board. The other is called surviving secrets and is on the CC board. let me know what you think of them.

Thanks for the feedback:

kittens
Antarian
FaithfulAngel24
Erina258
Grace52373
RhondaAnn
roswell3053
c_which
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and thanks to c_which for the wonderful banner!

Part 1

9 years and a few months later


“Oh Mother. Why do I have to share the celebration with Bella and Zach?” Anna whined as she twirled around in front of the mirror inspecting her dress. It was emerald green, with a heart shape bodice that tapered in at the waist and then was slightly fared down to her ankles.

Liz couldn’t help but laugh at her daughter’s whining. “This is the way we have always done things for the last 9 years.”

3 months after Anna was born, Isabel had given birth to Bella and a week after that Maria had given birth to Zachary. They had celebrated the three children’s birthdays together every year. This year, they were turning 9 and had promised to throw them a ball. Liz had felt they were too young but Anna had begged Max, she had her father wrapped around her finger. All she had to do was pout and her father had said yes.

“This year is different. It’s a ball and I wanted to have my own ball.”

“You just don’t want to have to compete with Bella for Zachary’s attention.” Liz teased.

“That’s not true. Ew, I don’t like Zach that way.” She scrunched her nose up in disgust.

Anna was best friends with her cousin Bella when it cam to everything except for Zach. Liz and Vilandra were both convinced that both of their daughters were in love with him but of course Max and Alex didn’t agree, of course men were often in the dark when it came to their daughters and matters of the heart, they didn’t want to believe they could be interested in boys.

Liz and Isabelle new it wasn’t a big deal for the moment but in a few years when they became teenagers it would be a completely different story. It was obvious that Zach who considered both girls to be his best friends had become confused. Lately one of them always got upset with him when he seemed to give the other more attention. Poor Zach would have his hands full.

“It’s just that, Bella always looks so much more polished than I do.”

“Anna, don’t compare yourself like that. Bella, is Vilandras’ daughter, I love her dearly but she is a diva just as her mother is.” She laughed thinking about how earlier Vilandra had sent the maid into town to find the perfect earrings to match her dress.

“She’s a Princess. How can I compete with that?” She said so quietly her mother didn’t hear her.

There was a knock at the door and Max entered in a tux and Liz smiled at him feeling a familiar rumbling in her stomach. He looked fantastic.

Max gave her a huge grin as his eyes worked there way up her body. She was wearing a red satin dress that hugged her body in all the right places. There had been so much going on lately they hadn’t had much time alone and he hoped that after the ball tonight that would change.

“Are my girls ready?” He asked.

“Daddy, mother won’t let me wear makeup. I’m old enough, please convince her.” Anna whined.

“What’s that on your lips?” He asked her.

“Lip gloss.”

“Well that’s makeup, what are you complaining about?”

“Dad, all mom ever lets me wear is this lip gloss, but I need blush, eye liner, mascara.”

Max looked at Liz and shrugged his shoulder. Liz could tell he was going to cave. She gave him an “I don’t care” look and he knew better than to cross her.

“Anna, your mother doesn’t even wear makeup and look how beautiful she is. You are exactly the same. You have a natural beauty, no make up can compare with that.”

“Really, daddy?” She asked with a smile.

“Really, Pumpkin.”

Liz laughed. She had been trying to convince Anna of this for over an hour and Max was able to do it in a mere minute.

“So are we ready?” Max asked. They had decided that since the children were too young for dates, the girls would be accompanied by their fathers and Zachary by his mother.

He walked over to Liz placing a soft kiss on her lips. “Tonight, your all mine.” He whispered.

“I’ll hold you to that promise buddy.” She whispered back bending in for another kiss.

“Uhh hum. Pre teen in the room.” Anna reminded them.

Max gave Liz one last kiss and walked over to his daughter. They linked arms and left the room heading towards the ballroom to make their grand entrance.


-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-

“It’s nice to see the kids spending time with other children their own age.” Liz commented to Maria and Vilandra as they all sat at a table at the back of the ballroom drinking some wine watching their children dance.

“Yes, it really is. They are getting to that age when I think it’s important.” Maria replied.

The kids were all being home schooled at the palace by one of the countries most esteemed professors. It just wasn’t safe for Princess Bella to attend a regular school and Max and Michael felt that there was also a safety risk for Anna and Zachery as they would be a means for others to get to princess Bella. Besides, even though Maria and Michael were not related to either of the couples, they still considered them family and wanted their son to have the best opportunities the world had to offer.

Alex approached the three women a smile on his face.“Care to dance, my Queen?” He asked his wife extending his hand for her to take.

“I thought you’d never ask.” She replied taking his hand and allowing him to lead her onto the dance floor.

The eyes of every man and woman in the room followed them and Maria and Liz just looked at each other and broke out into a laugh. This night was supposed to be for the children’s birthdays but it was Vilandra who had made the grandest entrance tonight, in her custom made white silk dress. There was no one quite like Vilandra, and no one more fitting to be the Queen of Antar.


-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-

Anna had gone to sit with her mother and Maria to take a bit of a break and was deep in conversation when Zachary approached her.

“Hi Anna.” He smiled.

“Hi Zach.” She blushed. Was the room hot all of a sudden?

“Don’t just stand there Zach, why don’t you ask Anna to dance?” Maria encouraged him and then sunk low in her chair.

“What?” She said feigning innocence when both Liz and Zach glared at her.

“Anna, would you like to dance?” He asked her, as his cheeks turned red.

“I would love to.” She said getting up and following him onto the dance floor.

“Maria, don’t try to force things with them. They are 9 years old.”

“I know but they are just so cute together. Wouldn’t it be great if they ended up together?”

“If you push it, it will never happen. Kids like to make up their own minds.” Liz cautioned her.

Maria wasn’t listening. “We are best friends and now our kids are going to end up married. Isn’t it great.” She smiled dreamily, already designing the next ten years of her sons life in her mind.

“Well I think my daughter has some competition.” Liz said motioning to the middle of the dance floor where Bella was dancing with her father.

A look of fury adorned her face as she watched her cousin dancing with Zach. They were laughing together and then Zach reached down and pushed a dark lock of Anna’s hair that had fallen in her face behind her ear. How dare Anna dance with Zach first.

Zach felt strange dancing with Anna. He had known her all of his life and yet he suddenly felt nervous around her. His palms were sweaty and his heart was beating faster than usual. He tried to shake the feelings off but they wouldn’t leave. Anna smelled nice too, he thought as he breathed in her scent, he had never noticed it before.

“What’s wrong sweetie?” Alex asked when he saw the look of despair on his daughter’s face.

“Nothing.”

“Is there someone else you would rather be dancing with?” He asked her following her eyes to Anna and Zach.

“Of course not daddy.” She pouted.

Alex just smiled, knowing exactly what was going through his daughter’s mind.

When the song ended Alex went to join Max and Michael for a brandy on the terrace. Bella decided to go sit with her mother, Aunt Liz and Maria.

“Why do you look so solemn tonight Maxwell?” Michael asked him.

“Liz starts full time work at the hospital on Monday.”

“I know, Maria is starting full time at the design house as well.” Michael added.

“I thought that was the plan, now that the children were older. You didn’t expect them to give up their dreams forever did you?” Alex asked.

“It’s not that. We are happy for them. It’s just that I already get very little time with my wife as it is and now that she is going back to work it will be even worse. Once we get home from work all our free time will be spent with the children.”

“Why don’t we hire a nanny for the kids?” Alex suggested.

“Liz would never let someone else raise Anna.” Max could just see how Liz would react at the idea. She would see red in seconds.

“Maria wouldn’t mind at all.” Micheal liked the idea

“Neither would Maria.” Alexs added. She would have more time to shop.

“Besides, she wouldn’t be raising the children. She would be helping out. Making sure they do their homework when their studies are over for the day. Making sure they have their meal.” Alex tried to sell the idea to Max.

Max had to admit it did sound pretty good. “Would this nanny be able to take the kids on an outing one afternoon on the weekend so that we men could have some alone times with our wives?” Max asked.

“I like the way you think, Max.” Michael said patting him on the back.

“Liz won’t go for it though so we might as well forget the notion before we get too carried away.”

“I will talk to my sister. Be ready to start interviewing nannies early next week.” Alex said certain he could make Liz see their point of view.



-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-

“Hi Bella.” Zachary approached the table where Bella was deep in conversation with his mother.

Bella looked up at him “:Hi Zach.” She responded coldly and turned back to Naria.

“Would you like to dance?” He asked her.

“Oh please, as if I would say yes now.” She said still not looking at him.

“What?” he asked perplex looking at his mother for help. What had he done wrong?

Maria just shrugged.

Bella turned and looked up at Zach. “I am not going to be your second choice.” There was hurt in her voice.

“Second choice?’ he asked her. What was she talking about? It was just a dance.

“You asked Anna first.” She explained.

“You were dancing with your father.” He protested.

“You could have waited.”

“Oh suit yourself.” He said shaking his head. This just wasn’t worth the complication.

Zach just didn’t understand women at all. Last year he and Anna and Bella were the best of friends. They spent hours playing together outside, building forts in the winter, swimming in the summer but now, they just….he didn’t even know how to explain it. He decided to join his father and uncles outside, maybe they could help him make some sense out of all of this.


Behind Bars was updated yesterday.

I am torn as to what to do about this story. I am getting a lot of feedback for my other storeies but not much for this one and I am unsure as to whether I should continue it or not. I would like to because I already have the whole story planned out...please let me know what you think.

Maya

Thanks for the feedback:

Sweet Liz
Antarian
roswell3053
RhondaAnn


Part 2

“What’s wrong with you?” Michael asked his son as he joined them on the terrace dragging his heels, his head hung low.

Zach just grunted and shrugged his shoulders.

“Bella got mad at me because I asked Anna to dance before I asked her to dance. I didn’t even really want to dance with either of them.” He sighed.

“So why did you then?” Michel questioned him exchanging a grin with Max and Alex.

“Mom told me to ask her.” He said hanging his head in defeat. “I didn’t think it would be a big deal. It was just a dance.”

‘But it was a big deal?” Michael asked.

“Well ya I guess” He shrugged again. “I mean Bella isn’t talking to me now.” He paused looking down slightly embarrassed “And” there was something else he wanted to say but then that thought better of it.

“And what?” his father prodded him.

“When I danced with Anna my palms were sweaty and I felt weird.”

“You felt weird?” Max’s voice was both teasing and questioning. He and Alex had been trying to stay silent, allowing Michael to talk to his son but now that his daughter was involved he couldn’t help bringing himself into the conversation.

“That’s what I said, uncle Max.”

“You haven’t even hit puberty yet. You won’t be looking at girls that way for a few more years.” Max explained. “Until then Anna is off limits.” He said trying to be firm but the words came out with a laugh. Liz had been right about the kids starting to notice each other and if his daughter wasn’t involved he would actually find it funny

“So is Bella.” Alex is chuckled.

“Dad.” Zach whined looking for some support from his father.

“Don’t look at me. Father’s are always overprotective of their daughters.” Michael explained.

“What about son’s?”

“Oh you can look after yourself.” Michael said patting him on the back.

“I just want to understand girls. That’s all. Last year things were easy and now there hard.”

“Oh you want to understand girls.” Michael said. “Take a number.”

Zach looked even more confused.

“I’ll let you in on a little secret. You’ll never understand them.” He whispered.

Zach turned to look at Max and Alex who both nodded. “It’s true Zach. We still don’t understand women.” Max explained.

“So what do I do?”

“Just do what we do, keep trying” Max said giving him a squeeze on the shoulder.

“You guys are nuts.” Zach shook his head and left the terrace heading back onto he dance floor. He had asked a simple question, all he needed was an answer, and instead he left the terrace more confused than he had entered it.

Suddenly an arm reached out and pulled him into the corner of the room.

“Uncle Kyle!” Zach exclaimed

“I heard the whole thing.” Kyle shook his head.

“You need a real man to give you some advice.” He said puffing up his chest. “Come on let’s go get some hot chocolate.”

-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-


Max arrived back at the room once the evening had ended to find Liz already in bed, the lights off.

He removed his tux, hung it in the closet and walked over to the bed in his boxers. “I thought you were going to wait up for me?” He said as he pulled the covers back on his side of the bed and got in.

His comment was met with silence but he knew Liz was still awake because as soon as he tried to move closer to her she turned onto her side so that her back was facing him.

“Liz?” He questioned putting his hand on her shoulder.

Liz rolled over onto her back and let out a sigh.“God Max, you didn’t honestly think I would be ok with hiring a nanny did you?” She asked in an angry tone.

“Well I….I” He wasn’t quite sure how to respond. Damn it. He knew the moment Alex suggested the idea Liz wasn’t going to like it.

“You what?” She asked crossing her arms over her chest and looking at him like she did Anna when she was scolding her for bad behavior.

Max just groaned and laid down on his back staring up at the ceiling. Shit. Alex must have talked to Liz. Couldn’t he have waited until tomorrow? Talk about bad timing. It had been close to 2 weeks since he and Liz had been intimate and he felt like he was about to explode.

“Cat got your tongue?” She smirked when Max still hadn’t answered.

“Liz” Max rolled over onto his side to face her, leaning on his elbow for support. “The nanny wouldn’t replace you. It’s just with you going back to work I thought it would be a help. That’s all.” He tried to explain.

Liz cocked an eyebrow at him. “And you couldn’t talk to me about it yourself? I can’t believe you sent my brother, the king to talk to me.”

“I’m sorry.” He said as his eyes averted Liz’s gaze, focusing on the hem of the comforter instead.

“Just how sorry are you?” She asked. If he didn’t know better he would think there was suggestiveness in her voice but that wasn’t possible was it? Wasn’t she mad at him? Max looked up to meet Liz’ eyes and was surprised to see that her stern expression had broken into a small grin.

“Very” He said with a smile. What was going on here?

Liz burst out laughing causing Max to give her a puzzled look.

“You were never mad at me were you?” He asked.

“Nope.” She laughed. “Just having fun. Your so easy to tease Max, really.”

‘Oh really” he said cocking an eyebrow and immediately grabbing his pillow and giving Liz a light tap with it.

“Two can play at that game.” Liz said as she reached for her pillow and hit him back.

Before she knew it Max had flipped her over onto her back and was tickling her until she cried out mercifully for her to stop.

“So your really ok with it?” Max asked her after they had called a truce.

“Alex mentioned it to me earlier and I thought it was a good idea. Of course I told him he would have to agree with a few things first.”

“Like what?”

“We agreed I would be responsible for developing the requirements and developing a list of potential nannies, Michael will then do a thorough background check to screen out the undesirables and then I will interview perspective candidates and make the final decision.”

“Oh that’s all?” He asked with a laugh. Now he understood why Liz had agreed to it.

“Oh” She said excitedly turning her bedside table lamp on reaching for her notebook. “I started a list in all the attributes we are looking for in a nanny. Do you want to see it?”

Max laughed. That was his Liz, always a planner. Alex probably thought he had achieved something getting Liz to agree but in reality she was the one who had the real triumph.

“How about.” Max said taking the notebook from her. ‘I look at this tomorrow.” He placed the notebook on top of his side table. “And we use our time alone more wisely.”

“What exactly are you suggesting, wise one?” She purred straddling his hips

“How about I show you?” He said with a growl taking her lips fiercely and running his fingers through her silky hair.

Liz nipped his ear lightly with her teeth, dipping her tongue inside causing shivers down Max’s spine. She trailed kisses down his neck and rubbed her hands across his chest.

Max growled and lifted Liz’s arms up, pulling her negligee off in one swift motion and then quickly flipping her over so that he was on top.

He leaned back admiring her in all her naked glory for a few seconds, no matter how much time passed he never grew tired of looking at her. She was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.

“So beautiful.” He said as he leaned forward and kneaded one of her rosy nipples between his fingers.

“Max.” She begged and he immediately bent down taking the nipple in his mouth.

After giving the other nipple equal attention, their mouths met again, their tongues exploring every inch of each other.

Their lower bodies ground against each other creating a friction that was almost unbearable.

“Max.” Liz whimpered as she reached down grabbing the waist band of his boxers and pulling them down his legs. She needed to feel closer to him.

Max gently parted Liz’s legs, and ran his middle finger across her folds. He brought his finger up to his mouth and licked it clean.

“Your so wet baby and you taste so good.” He said his eyes dark with hunger.

“Only for you Max.” She said causing Max to groan again.

Max had wanted to take things slowly, but he couldn’t, 2 weeks was too long and he needed to be inside her now. He immediately thrust into her filling her completely.

Within seconds they found a rhythm that was all their own rocking against each other.

A few minutes later Liz pushed them into a sitting position so that she could feel Max deeper and harder. “Faster Max” She screamed and he quickened the pace.

“Oh god Liz.” He could feel the tension building. “So close”

“Max.” She screamed as she went over the edge. A few seconds later he followed her filling her with his seed, then collapsing on top of her.

“God” He said resting his forehead against hers as they rolled over onto their sides. “Let’s never wait that long again.”

Liz smiled as she snuggled up to Max into a much needed sleep.

-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-

Max woke up early and got dressed in his golfing gear. Ever since that day he, Alex, Michael and Kyle had disappeared on their pregnant wives for a few hours on purpose they had spent Sunday mornings golfing together on the palace grounds.

He chuckled to himself when he remembered that day.

He and the guys arrived back at the palace around 6 pm expecting they would have dinner with their wives but were unable to find them.

“They left at 4pm, your highness.” The maid explained when Alex inquired on their whereabouts.

“Where did they go?”

“They didn’t say.” She replied shrugging her shoulders.

“Liz is 8 months pregnant. How far could she go?” Max had asked horrified.

“Kyle, Michael, get your best security guards together and search every inch of the grounds.” Alex demanded.

The grounds were searched over and over again, carriages were sent into town but their wives were not found. The men spent the rest of the evening pacing the palace, worrying, calling everyone and every place they knew to no avail. Come 10 pm they were starting to panic.

Suddenly laughter was heard echoing from the kitchen and the men ran to the kitchen to find the girls had entered through the maid’s entrance and were talking and laughing amongst themselves.

“Where were you?” They all asked at the same time.

“Oh we decided to go out to dinner.” Vilandra answered nonchalantly.

“And than we felt like dancing.” Liz added as if it was something they did every day.

“So we found this great dance bar in town and just let loose.” Maria added.

Let loose? Max paled. The idea of his 8 month pregnant wife gyrating her hips in a dance club sent him into a tailspin. What was she thinking? What if something had happened? He ran over to her pulling her into his arms and kissing her nose, eyes, cheeks and finally her lips.

“You shouldn’t have gone out without a guard Vilandra. You’re the Queen. It was dangerous.” Alex argued pulling her into a hug.

“Oh it was no big deal. We wore plain clothes .” She motioned to her attire, a low cute sequenced top the showed her ample cleavage and a pair of jeans. Even though she was 5 months along and had a small belly showing she looked gorgeous.

“But Liz is 8 months a long. It was dangerous.” Max was angry.

“You should have at least told us where you were going.” Michael huffed staring coldly at Maria.

“Oh were you mad Max?” Liz asked.

“yes.”

“Good.” She shouted as she, Vilandra and Maria breezed past the men heading towards their rooms.

“What?” Micheal yelled after them. “What is that supposed to mean?”

All three women turned around and smiled.

“Now you know what it feels like to find your spouse has left the palace without telling you and you have no idea where they are.” Vilandra exclaimed.

The men dropped their head in shame. They had learned their lesson well.

Liz walked over to her husband and took his hand. “If you needed some men time you should have just told us. We would have understood.”

Max just nodded.

In reality the women hadn’t gone to dinner or a dance club but had spent the evening watching movies with Serena the gardener in her cottage on the grounds. But the men didn’t need to ever know that. What was important was that the woman had made their point, the men never disappeared again. The days events did make them realize that their husbands occasionally needed some time away from the estrogen. Out of this realization the Sunday morning golf routine was born.

Just as Max was about to leave the bedroom Liz woke up screaming.

"Sweetheart are you ok?” Max asked rushing to her side.

She nodded trying to calm her heart which was beating rapidly.

“Kivar?” He asked.

“Yes.”

It had been nine years but Liz still had nightmares about Kivar. It was usually when she was stressed about something going on in her life.

“What is it?” He asked.

“I start work tomorrow.”

“You don’t have to.” He said reassuringly sitting down beside her on the bed and pushing her hair out of her face.

“I want to. I just feel bad leaving my baby.” She explained.

“I’m not going to go golf.” He said pulling his golf shirt off and throwing it on the bed, as he started to get back into bed with her.

“No go.” She said picking up the shirt and handing it back to him.

“But your upset.”

“Max, it’s not a big deal. Enjoy your game. Besides, I have a nanny to hire.” She said happily as she got out of bed and headed into the bathroom to take a shower.

Max laughed at how quickly her mood had changed. Zach was right. Women were hard to understand. They were impossible but so worth all the effort.

-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-

Liz was sitting pen and notebook in hand with Vilandra and Maria on the sun porch.

“So we have experience as our most important criteria followed by first aid, teaching experience so they can help with homework, and knowledge of nutrition. She must have the ability to set limits. I don’t want her to be easily manipulated by the kids.”

Maria nodded. If she was a pushover the kids would recognize it immediately and all hell would break loose.

“It would be great if she was musical.” Maria added.

“Good idea.” Liz smiled adding musical aptitude to her list.

“She shouldn’t be attractive.” Vilandra added.

Liz rolled her eyes. “Who cares what she looks like.” Liz was exasperated. Couldn’t Vilandra take this seriously?

“What matters is that she keeps the kids safe and is a good role mode;.” Liz explained.

“It will matter when she’s making goo goo eyes at our husbands.” Vilandra argued.

Maria and Liz exchanged looks.

“Good point.” Maria exclaimed.

“Noted.” Liz added not attractive to her list.

Thanks for the words of encouragement. I hope you like this part. I will start working on my update to behind bars tomorrow.

Erina258
vampyrax
Antrian
cocpucks
Sweet Liz
roswell3053
LoveIsForever
RhondaAnn


Part 3

Zach woke up groggily at noon. The light streaming in the window was too bright, causing him to elicit a groggy groan from his throat as he pulled the covers up over his head to block it out. His head hurt, his legs hurt, every muscle in his body hurt.

The night’s events came pouring back to him and despite his pain he couldn’t help but grin. After his futile conversation with his fathers at the ball uncle Kyle had pulled him aside promising to unravel the secret of women. They had gone to Kyle’s room, the term room didn’t really do it justice, considering it was huge and had a living room and a small private bar. Uncle Alex had one built for Kyle as well as one for his parents before he Anna and Bella were born.

He had been glad to have someone to talk to. His father just wasn’t very good at that type of talk and although uncle Max and uncle Alex had given him good advice in the past he doubted they would be helpful when it came to this topic, after all they were the parents of the girls who had sent his mind spinning in confusion.

Kyle had offered him his first taste of beer. He had been excited as his parents had never let him have it before, saying he was too young. The first sip had caught him off guard, it wasn’t what he expected at all, really strong and bitter and he gagged on it before his throat finally relaxed allowing the liquid to make it’s way into his stomach. He tried to keep his disgust from showing, embarrassed Kyle would think he was a wussy. Kyle had just laughed and patted him on the back.

“It’s always like that on the first try. Just take another sip. It gets better.” Kyle encouraged him with a laugh.

Zach took a deep breathe and took another sip, this time it glided down his throat smoothly. A few minutes later he had burped. The aftertaste wasn’t so great but he took another sip.

The more he drank the easier it went down and the more he liked it. He had felt grown up.

“My parents will kill me.” He had told Kyle.

Kyle just shrugged. He was so much less uptight then his own parents. “I have this theory.” He said after he had already had quite a few beers and was starting to sway himself. “If you don’t let kids drink they’ll do it anyway and get really drunk and not learn to control it. If you let them drink in front of you, it doesn’t have as much appeal and they learn to control it so that when they do drink, they don’t drink to much.”

Zach had nodded. It made good sense.

“But Uncle Kyle you promised to talk to me about girls.” He had begged.

Zach shook his head as he sat up in bed. What had Kyle told him about women? He couldn’t remember. He looked around his room and realized that he didn’t remember coming back to his room either. Did Kyle bring him back? Suddenly he was hit with a wave of nausea and clutched his stomach , jumping out of bed and running to his bathroom, making it just in time to retaste the beer he had drank last night.

“Zach?” Maria asked as she entered his room to find his bed empty. Realizing he was probably in his bathroom she sat on the couch in his bedroom deciding to wait. She had decided to let him sleep in, she knew the ball had been a bit of a late night for him but was surprised he had slept so late. Kyle had told him, he had tucked him in at 10:30pm. After she and Liz and Vilandra had met to discuss the new nanny requirements she decided to tell Zach about the nanny before he heard it from someone else.
She heard a retching sound coming from the bathroom and she immediately opened the door to find her son sitting on the floor his shoulders draped over the toilet bowl.

“Honey, what’s wrong. Are you sick?” She asked horrified. She couldn’t remember the last time he’d had a cold or flu.

Zach looked up panic in his eyes. “Ya, I ate this shrimp appetizer.” He explained thinking quickly.

“Kyle didn’t tell me you weren’t feeling well last night.” She said rolling her eyes in annoyance that Kyle would neglect to tell her something so important.

“Mom.” He whined. “I asked him not to. I’m nine years old now and I don’t need you to baby me.” He said pulling back when Maria leaned down and cleaned his face with a face cloth.

“Alright.” She sighed dropping the cloth in the sink and leaving the bathroom.

“Get back in bed.” She ordered him. “I’ll send up some soup, after I have a serious conversation with the cook about serving appetizers that were spoiled last night.” She said in an aggravated tone.

Zach got into bed relieved he hadn’t been caught, pulling the covers over his head, praying that when he woke up again the pounding in his head and the queasiness in his stomach would be long gone.


-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-

“Michael, did you get the call letter I prepared?” Liz asked when she had finally tracked him down in the security room.

“Yes and it went out today. The applications will be rolling in by tomorrow.”

“Good. Did Alex explain the process to you?”

“Yes.” Michael rolled his eyes. Alex had explained each and every agonizing detail to him earlier this morning and he hoped Liz wasn’t going to make him relive it all again..

“He actually suggested we make the closing data for the applications in 3 days to decrease the number we get.” He explained.

“Good idea.” Liz smiled. She was actually looking forward to this. She loved planning, interviewing, taking charge..

“So you will do the background checks and then pass everything over to me?” She asked.

“Yes Liz. That was the plan.” He reminded her.

“Michael.” Maria yelled opening the door, storming in and interrupting their conversation.

“What’s wrong?”

“Have either of you seen Kyle?” She asked leaning against Michael to catch her breathe.

“No” They both said.

“What’s going on?” Liz asked sharing a grin with Michael. Maria was always so overdramatic.

“Well, Zach is throwing up, apparently he was sick all night from that shrimp appetizer they served, it had gone bad.”

“What does this have to do with Kyle?” Michael asked.

“Kyle put him to bed last night and didn’t even bother to tell me that Zach was sick. I have to talk to him about that…he needs to be more responsible. What if he had needed medical attention?” She asked hands on her hips.

“Well he’s fine now Maria. Crisis averted.” Michael tried to calm her down.

“Yes, I gave the cook a warning.”

“What did she say” Liz was curious. She had eaten quite a bit of that appetizer herself last night and felt fine.

“She said no one else had complained about it and that she had tried it herself.”

“So maybe that isn’t the problem.” Michael suggested but his words were met with a glare from Maria.

“Oh Michael, that shrimp had definitely gone bed. You should have smelled Zach’s bathroom, it was stale.” She said once again making an overdramatic face. “Actually fermented is probably the right word. Yuck”

Liz and Michael exchanged a knowing glance.It sounded like Zach had been drinking.

“Fermented like the way Beer smells fermented?” Michael asked his wife with raised eyebrows.

“Exactly. That’s what it was like.” Maria explained not catching on.

Michael suppressed his grin “I’ll talk to Kyle.” He said. He would definitely be having a talk with Kyle.

Liz decided to leave before Maria caught on and all hell broke looses. She quietly slipped through the door, out into the hall.

When Liz got about 10 feet down the hall she heard Maria scream as the realization finally hit her. .

“Oh my god Michael. Was Zach drinking last night?”

Liz couldn’t help but laugh as she continued walking down the hall. Sure it was a serious matter that her nine year old nephew had been drinking but it was also hilarious to watch Maria and Michael deal with it. She was so glad she had a daughter that was a perfect angel, who would never do something like this.


-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-


Angela Whilmsley arrived back at her small apartment, threw her purse on the couch and immediately headed for the bathroom where she checked her reflection in the mirror. Just as she had suspected the call notice for a nanny for the place had come out today and she had already submitted her application. She had been through this many times. She would definitely be screened in, she had all of the qualifications and she would pass the security check as her record was clean. All she had left to do was prepare for the interview. She stared at the reflection, her long blonde hair and blue eyes the color of the ocean, her soft pale skin. She was too attractive to be a nanny. In her last placement that was why she had been let go. She had worked for a guitarist and his wife, the wife was extremely insecure and didn’t like the way her husband had looked at her. In truth he had never made a pass at her, but groupies did spend many nights in his bed while his wife was away. One day she had come home to find a pair of panties in her bed that were not her own and she immediately blamed Angela. Her bastard husband didn’t even deny it and much to Angela’s chagrin she had been fired. No, she wouldn’t let her looks risk her chance of getting this job. The queen would never hire someone that could be a threat to her. She would have to change her looks, subdue them somehow but she couldn’t do anything to drastic. If she made herself look too frumpy they might not want to hire her either, thinking she was too old fashioned, behind the times.

An hour later when she stared in the mirror a different reflection stared back at her. She had cut her hair into a blunt bob that rested just below here ears and died it brown, the name of the shade on the box had been “chestnut”. Her blue eyes were now hazel, thanks to colored contacts and she had created a few freckles that ran across the bridge of her nose using eyeliner. She looked perfect; intelligent, kind and motherly, exactly how a nanny should be.

She smiled to herself as she sat at her desk thumbing through the application she had submitted as well as the four reference letters she would hand over at the end of her interview. Her credentials were very impressive. After finishing her one year diploma at the care training academy where she graduated top of her class she had completed an internship as a nanny to the Haneman’s twins. They were a prestige family that lived in Upper Roston. She then went on to work for the Hilburd’s family, a local barrister, his wife and 3 children in Webster. The last 4 years she spent working for Jenna and Arnold White, the musician and his wife and their 4 children, the richest family in all of Antar city. This would prove she could handle working for a high profile family with the utmost discretion. It was only natural that the next job she would seek out was for an even more prestigious family, you couldn’t get much more prestigious than the king and Queen of Antar City.

She smiled to herself as she grabbed a folder from the drawer to put the reference letters in. She had been born for this job and nothing was going to stop her from getting it. She was sure there was no one more qualified than she was, as long as the interview went well she was a shoe in. Suddenly she panicked as her mind played devils advocate, what if she didn’t get it? She had to get this job, she just had to, she thought as she got up grabbed her purse from the couch and put her shoes on. She was fairly confident the job was already hers but just in case there was even the smallest possibility it wasn’t she decided it would be best to pay a visit to Matilda. Matilda would ensure that everything went her way.


-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-

“You’ve been a sour puss all day pumpkin.” Max said as he tucked Anna into bed.

“So.” She said.

“So your no fun when your like this.” He said as he sat on the edge of her bed.

“Sorry daddy.” She hung her head.

“Do you want to tell me what’s wrong?” He asked.

“Bella still isn’t talking to me because Zach asked me to dance first. It’s not my fault and even if it were it’s stupid.”

“I’m sure she will be over it by tomorrow.” Max sighed.

“I don’t care because I am never talking to her again.” She crossed her arms across her chest and pouted.
“You’ve been friends with Bella a long time.”

“So.”

“So I don’t think you should let Zach come between your friendships. Is it really worth it?” He asked.

Anna just shook her head.

“Good.” He bent over and kissed Anna on the forehead and then stood up.

“Dad?” She asked.

“Why isn’t mom tucking me in?”

“She’s getting ready for her first day of work tomorrow sweetie. It’s a bidg day for both of you as your starting the new school year too. I am sure she will come in and give you a kiss before she goes to bed.”

“I wish mommy wasn’t going to work. I like having her around after school.” She said sadness in her small brown eyes.

“I know pumpkin. I like having her around too but working is important to your mom and she helps a lot of people at the hospital.” Max explained.

“Will she still have time for me?” She asked, her voice cracked.

“Of course she will sweetheart. You are the most important thing in your mom’s life and in mine too.” Max bent down again, giving Anna another kiss. He then shut off the light on her bedside table and left her room closing the door quietly behind him.

He hadn’t realized that Liz going back to work was upsetting Anna. When he and Liz had told her about the nanny she had seemed excited about it but now he wasn’t so sure. He would mention it to Liz and make sure she gave their daughter the attention she needed while they all transitioned to Liz’s new working life.

Ok this fic was on hiatus for a while becauase I have so many other fics on the go but Erina convinced me in my author's chat to start it back up so here it is!
I know the last part was weird with a 9 year old drinking, just trust me that part is there for a reason that you won't see until much later in the story.

Please let me know what you think.

Anyways thanks to those of you who are still reading this:

RhondaAnn - Matilda won't be reavealed for a while.
LoveISForever - yes Maria was slow to figure it out, but you are right why would she even think of that.
Erina- You will meet angela in the next part and she definetly is weird.
vampyrax - Angela will appear in part 6.


Part 4


After tucking Anna in, Max went back into his room to find Liz in bed, the lights out. Knowing she needed her rest for her first day of work he tiptoed quietly past the bed towards their dressing closet and began to remove his clothes.

“Leave them on.” He heard Liz yell. “Unless you want to go talk to your brother in your boxers?”

“Your supposed to be asleep.” Max said as he walked out of the dressing closet and over towards the bed. His chest was bare but his pants were still on.

Liz turned on the light on the bedside table and sat up, rubbing her sleepy eyes. She had been trying to stay awake so she could talk to him, but must have dozed off for a few minutes.

“Well, I figured that saving your brothers behind was more important than my beauty rest”

“I am still not following a thing your saying.” Max replied, and then chuckled. Liz wasn’t always coherent when she was half asleep, something that she would never admit, because she prided herself in always being in control.

“The short version is that Kyle apparently gave Zach a beer.” She explained.

“What?” Max asked skeptically raising an eyebrow. “I don’t think that…”

Liz cut him off adding “And Maria found him hung-over this morning.”

“It has to be a misunderstanding.” Max reasoned as he sat down on the side of the bed. “Kyle wouldn’t do something that foolish.” Would he?

“Maybe not.” Liz nodded. “But Michael thinks he did and has been looking for him all day.”

Max’s eyes went wide. “Oh my god Michael. I have to find Kyle.” He yelled as he threw his shirt back over his head and ran towards the bedroom door.

A second later, realizing he forgot something, he ran back and placed a soft kiss on Liz’s forehead. “Thanks.” He whispered to her.

“I thought you had forgotten.” She teased.

“Never.” He flashed her a smile and then he ran out the door once again. Images of Michael pounding Kyle’s head into a wall flashed through his mind. Michael wasn’t exactly one to reason with. He had to find Kyle first.


-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-


Max knocked on the door to Kyle’s room and was met with no response so he knocked again.

“Kyle.” He yelled through the door when he once again received no response. “Open up. I know you are in there.”

The door opened a crack. “Is that you. Max?” Kyle whispered.

“Yes, it’s me.” Max sighed. Who else would it be?

“Are you alone?” He asked.

“Yes.” Max’s voice was curt. This was frustrating. “Are you going to let me in?”

“Ok hurry up.” Kyle opened the door just wide enough for Max to slip into his room and then quickly shut and locked the door behind him.

“Oh man.” Kyle said leaning against the locked door with a sigh of relief. “I’ve been stuck in here all day, in hiding from Michael. He has been pounding on the door all day.”

Max couldn’t help but chuckle at his brother, a grown man hiding in his room all day, like a child. Then he thought about why Michael was on the hunt for him. “Well, he thinks you gave alcohol to his 9 year old Kyle. If I thought you had given Anna alcohol I would be doing a lot more than pounding on your door.”

Kyle was pacing the length of his room, his muscles tensed with fright.

“Look it’s not a big deal. We will just explain the misunderstanding to Maria and Michael…” Max advised.

Kyle cut max off, completely unaware he had been talking to him as he was too absorbed in his own survival to listen. “It wasn’t a big deal…and anyway...how did Michael find out...Zach said he wouldn’t say anything.” Kyle rambled as he continued to pace.

Max walked over to Kyle and put his hands on his shoulders firmly, putting a halt to his annoying pacing. “Wait a minute you mean it’s true?” He asked aghast. This was absurd, Kyle wouldn’t do something this stupid would he?

The look on Kyle’s face gave him his answer. Damn. With Anna’s issues with Bella, her worry over Liz starting back at work and the hiring of a nanny the last thing he needed was to mop up after his little brother’s messes.

Trying to remain calm Max sat down in a nearby chair and took deep breathes. Getting emotional would be counterproductive; he needed to get to the bottom of this.

“Ok Kyle. Why pray tell did you give Zach, a 9 year old beer?” Kyle must have had some rationale for his behavior….but was there any reason that could excuse it? He didn’t’ think so.

Kyle sat down on the side of his bed with a sigh and began to explain. “I overheard zach asking you guys for advise on woman, your words left him more confused then he had been to start with. I brought him back here to hang out, thought I could give him some better advise…but he looked so lost and dejected. He complained you were all treating him like a child.”

“So you thought drinking would make him feel more grown up?” Max asked not wanting to hear Kyle’s answer.

“Well yes.” Kyle knew from the look on Max’s face that he wasn’t impressed. “Remember when we went to stay with Uncle Carl that summer and he gave us beer. You were older and had already had it but it was my first time ever having it?” He asked Max.

Max nodded. He remembered that summer well. It was the only summer he had a break from working with his fater on the farm.

“He trusted me enough to try some. He said that if we drank in front of him we would learn to handle our liquor and we wouldn’t be tempted to drink behinmd adult’s backs as a thrill.”

“Kyle. Your forgetting an important part of the story.”

“What?” Kyle looked lost.

“Your age Kyle.”

“I was 14. So”

“There is abig difference between 9 and 14.”

“Oh.” Kyle said finally understanding what the big deal had been.

“A nine year old could get alcohol poisonng even from that small amount of beer. You said it would teach him to know his own limits….well from what I’m heard that wasn’t the case.”

“He was really sick huh?” Kyle hung his head in shame.

“Kyle, I know you didn’t mean any harm but you must have known it was wrong if you told him not to tell anyone.”

“I didn’t think it was wrong. I just thought his parents wouldn’t like it.”

Max just shook his head. What was he going to do with Kyle.

After a few moments Kyle spoke again only his voice was much softer, almost child like. “Max, I am lonely here.”

“Really?” Max asked surprised. He thought Kyle was really happy.

“You and Alex and Michael have wives and children.” He explained.

“You always tease us about it, how restrictive our lives are.” Max answered still surprised at Kyle’s admission.

Kyle shrugged. “That’s how I deal with things I guess, I make jokes.”

“Maybe I should go back to Cordova.” He suggested.

“Is that really what you want?” Max asked. “Your doing so well here with your security position. I thought you liked the work?”

“I do.”

Max felt horrible. He saw his brother everyday; he should have realized he felt alone. “I’m sorry Kyle that I didn’t notice you were feeling this way. Why don’t you go out snd start dating?” He suggested.

Kyle laughed. “It could create a security risk. I mean lots of woman would date me just to get into the palace.” How would he ever know if someone trule loved him for who he was.

Max nodded. Kyle had a good point. “It’s always a risk but one you will have to take. We want you to be happy Kyle. Just give it some thought.”

Kyle nodded and then stood up. “ I should go apologize to Maria and Michael.”

“No.” Max got up as well. “ I will talk to them both in the morning so just make sure you keep your door locked the rest of the night.”

Kyle nodded as he opened the door for Max to leave.

Max stepped out into the hall and then turned back to Kyle. “You may be my brother but if you ever offer beer to any of the kids, I will break your legs.”

-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-


Next day

Zach was in a bad mood. His first day of the new school year had been a long one. His mother had given him a lecture at breakfast, actually scolding would be the proper word. It had been a long time since she had spoken to him harshly and her words cut through to his very heart. He felt really bad about it and he knew he had gotten his Uncle Kyle in trouble as well. He hadn’t meant to, but he hadn’t exactly done a good job of hiding his sickness.

As soon as their class in the place ended for the day he took off before anyone could find him. He wanted to sulk alone.

Two hours later, when Zach still hadn’t come back, Maria was frantic with worry. She searched the palace, talked to the teacher but he was still no where to be found.

Max was in Anna’s room playing dolls with her, he wanted to spend more time with her to make Liz’s transition back to work easier at least until the nanny was hired.

“Max, oh thank god.” Maria exclaimed when she found him in Anna’s room

She motioned for Max to talk to her in the corner of the room. “Zach is gone. Can you help me find him? Michael has finally forgiven Kyle so I don’t want him involved. It’s all my fault. I really yelled at Zach this morning.” She explained.

Max nodded and turned to Anna. “Anna, sweetie, can we finish our game later?” He asked.

“Sure daddy. I think I will go play outside.”

“Ok” He nodded. “Wear a coat and don’t venture to far.”

“Aren’t you cute, Max mom.” Maria joked as they left the room in search of her son.

Bella put her coat on and ran outside. She had overheard the conversation. She knew that Zach was missing and she knew exactly where to find him.

-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_--_--


“Zach” Ana whispered as she climbed the steps to their tree house. No one knew that this place even existed. Serena, the Gardner had helped them build it 2 years ago. As soon as she had heard he was missing, she knew she would find him here. This was their special place.

Bella knew about it oo but always refused to come inside. It was a rough place, impossible to enter without getting your clothes dirty and well Bella didn’t do dirty clothes.

“Go away.” Zach sniffled as Anna enfettered the tree house. His back was to her but she could tell he was crying.

“Everyone is looking for you.”

“I don’t care.”

“Don’t worry, I won’t tell them where you are.” She said as she sat down beside him.

“Thanks.” He said as he turned to look at her and a brief smile passed his lips.

“We haven’t been here for a few months, I missed it.” Anna said softly.

“Me too. You used to read your books and I would play withy my dragons.” It seemed like so long ago, when things were simpler.

“Oh look, your T rex is still here.” She picked it up off the ground and passed it to him.

“Thanks,”

“What’s wrong Zach?” She asked

“I did something stupid.” He expected her to ask what but she didn’t. He liked that. She knew him well enough, to know he wouldn’t like that.

“Are you going to do it again?”

“What? .” Was she crazy? He never wanted to go through any of this again.

“Well that’s all that matters.”

“Why?” He asked interested.

“My dad says it’s ok to make mistakes as long as you learn from them.”

Zach considered it for a moment. It made sense. “Do you think he’s right?”

“Yup. I really do.” She smiled and noticed he was smiling to.

“Life is so complicated now.” He sighed.

“Adults make it that way.” She said and he laughed.

“Ya they do.”

“Zach. Lets come out here again soon and lets always tell each other stuff even if its hard.” She said.

“Ok,”

“So you swear?” She asked holding out her pinky finger.

“Swear.” He said linking his pinky with her’s.

“First one to the house gets the last bowl of chocolate ice cream.” He said as he bolted down the ladder.

“Wait no fair.” Anna yelled as she climbed down and began to sprint after him.

__________________________

Here is the next part. The good news is that I also have part 6 written so you won't have to wait long for the next update. I hope you are still enjoying this story.

Thanks for the feedback:

vampyrax
imniotic
Erina
RhondaAnn
roswell3053


Part 5

Liz arrived home from her first day of work at 9 pm and she was exhausted. She hadn’t meant to work so late but she had spent the whole day getting the lab organized and meeting with her new staff. She was so excited to be running the hospital pathology lab.

She sighed as she rounded the hall towards her bedroom. The palace was quiet, she had missed dinner, the staff had already retired for the night and the children were in bed, sleeping she hoped. Her stomach was growling but she was so tired she just wanted to get into bed.

She gasped as she opened the door to her room and took in the sights and sounds surrounding her. The table in the corner was covered in a red table cloth, a bouquet of white roses sitting in the middle. Soft music was playing.

“Hungry?” a husky voice whispered in her ear as warm arms wrapped themselves around her waist.

“Max.” She sighed in contentment closing her eyes, enjoying the feel of his arms around her. She had enjoyed her first day of work immensely but she had missed Max just as much.

“What’s being served?” She asked as Max guided her towards the table.

“Chicken Kiev, those roasted potatoes you love and a caesar salad.” He said lifting the lid on the plate in front of Liz.”

“Oh perfect.” She said as she took a seat in the chair he had pulled out for her. “How did I get so lucky?”

“Well now that your working I have to look after you.” He said.

“You work too.” She pointed out. After all his work at the palace with her brother was even more important than the work she was doing. “You didn’t have to do all of this.”

Just as Liz picked up her fork ready to dig in to the feast in front of her Max removed the fork from her hand. “ Not yet.” He shook his head at her. Before we eat I need an appetizer.”

“Ok.” Liz said looking around the table in confusion as she could find no appetizer. When her eyes met Max she noticed a silly grin was plastered on his face.

“What are you up to?” She raised her eyebrows at him in suspicion. “Why aren’t you sitting down?” She motioned to the empty seat across from her.

Before she knew it, he had whipped the chair around and sat on the floor between her legs. He pushed her skirt up and in one smooth movement pulled her underwear down her legs, tossing it aside and spreading her legs. She gasped in shock. Was he about to go down on her at their dinner table? A few seconds later her thought was realized as she felt his hot tongue snake across her folds.

“Ah” Liz gasped in shock at the unexpected sensation, wetness immediately pooling at her center.

“Just relax, sweetheart and enjoy.” Max said as he quickly looked up at her with a smile and then immediately brought his mouth back to her pussy.

“Oh god Max.” She cried as she felt his tongue softly move across her folds in a slow motion. “That feels so good.”

His rhythm began to pick up and he began to dart his tongue in and out of her slit. Liz grasped the hair on the back of his head pushing his tongue deeper inside of her.

The tension was building and she began to whimper begging for release as Max removed his tongue and began to run it in circles over her bud over and over again until he felt her legs shudder as she cried out his name in release coating his face in her juices. He continued to lap up every last drop until the shudder stopped and he felt her relax, her hands loosening their grasp on his hair.

He pulled her skirt down to cover her legs and stared up at her. “Thank you.” She smiled. This had been exactly what she had needed.

;The pleasure was all mine.”

“Appetizer huh?” She laughed.

“The best.” He nodded.

She reached for the buckle on his pants, ready to return the favor but he covered her hand with his own and stopped her, getting up and taking his seat at the table across from her.

“Max?” she asked in confusion. He was obviously very aroused and she wanted to give him release as well.

“Another time baby. This was all for you. You’ve had a long day, you need to eat and get some rest.”

This man was too unbelievable for words. “Wow, if this is what working late gets me, I think I’ll work late every night.” She laughed.

“Don’t even think about it.” He warned her in a teasing tone and then reached for her hand across the table.


_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-



The next morning Liz decided to talk to Anna before she left for work. She had wanted to talk to her last night when she had gotten home but it has been too late. Max had told her she was having a hard time adjusting to the idea of Liz working and of course the fact she had come home late on her first day didn’t help matters. He hadn’t had an easy time settling her down for the night.

“Hi sweetie.” Liz said as she entered her daughter’s room to find her sitting at her dresser combing her hair for school.

Anna didn’t answer her.

“Let me help you sweetie.” She said sitting down beside her and motioning towards the brush.

Anna jerked the brush away quickly.

Liz felt a pull at her heart. Max had told her Anna was upset but she wasn’t expecting her to be this cold. “Sweetie, I know it’ s been hard on you, with me working.” She tried to console her.

“Daddy explained it. Your helping people. I understand.” Anna said quietly staring at her lap. Last night her father had explained how important this job was, not only for her mother but for all of the sick people at the hospital. She was trying to be ok with it, but she really wasn’t at all.

“Oh well I’m glad you understand.” Liz said knowing full well her daughter was lying. “I’d like to talk to you about the nanny then.” She began to speak but Anna cut her off right away.

“Daddy explained that to.” Anna folded her arms across her chest.

“Well how do you feel about it?”

“Don’t you have to go to work.” Anna said turning in her chair to face her mother.

Liz sighed as she got up, feeling like everything she had said was being dismissed by her 9 year old. She would talk with her again later tonight.

“Have a good day at school sweetheart.” She smiled.

Anna just nodded pretending not to care until her mother left the room. Then she began to sob. She couldn’t take it anymore. She wanted her mom to know how much her working was hurting her, but she knew she was hurting her mom and she didn’t want her to go to work mad at her.

“Mommy wait.” She cried running out into the hall and throwing her arm’s around Liz’s waist. “I didn’t mean it. I’m sorry.” She cried against Liz’s chest.

Liz smiled as she wrapped her arms around her daughter, returning the hug. “I’m sorry too sweetie. I should have talked to you about this more beforehand.”

“I love you mommy. Have a great day.”

“You too sweetie.”

That was how Max found his two girls when he sauntered down the hall on his way to breakfast. He immediately wrapped his arms around them in a family hug.


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Sunday

Serena walked back to her cottage on the grounds after having breakfast with Liz, Maria and Vilandra in the palace. She always enjoyed her leisurely Sunday morning breakfast with them while the men went to play their rounds of golf, both had been a tradition for over 9 years. After breakfast they would usually rent movies and swoon over the many leading men but today the woman were pressed for time, with Liz and Maria working outside the palace, Sunday afternoon was the only time they had available to conduct the nanny interviews, the first of which would be today. Serena was a bit disappointed the days festivities had been cut short, but she was behind in her work in the garden, so she decided to make the most of the rest of the day.

Serena was surprised when she found Kyle sitting on the bench outside her cottage. It had been over a week since the ‘beer incident’ as the story was referred to each time it was retold in hushed voices amongst the palace staff. She was surprised to see that Kyle was still sulking.

“Kyle?” Serena asked him surprised. “Still hiding out?”

Kyle nodded.

“I’m sure they’ve forgiven you by now.” She chuckled. “Alex isn’t carrying that gun around anymore.”

“He was carrying a gun.” A look of fright past Kyle’s face.

“Of course not. Get real. It was supposed to be a joke.” She laughed again.” In hindsight probably not the most appropriate joke. Sorry.”

“Me not laughing at a joke. You know things are bad when that happens.” He sighed in shame. “It was a stupid thing to do. I wasn’t thinking.” He didn’t even deserve forgiveness.

“You made a mistake, so what. We all have.” Serena sat beside him and gave him an encouraging smile.

“I was already feeling isolated, not having anyone to share my life with, then I go and do something like this isolating myself even more.”

“Kyle.” Serena patted him on the leg and smiled once again. “You’ll find someone to spend your life with.”

Kyle forced a smile. He knew Serena was trying to be reassuring but he was so depressed that he knew a few kind words would never be enough to bring him up from the bottom of the pit he felt he was trapped in. “Thanks.”

“Kyle.” Serena raised her eyebrows at him, knowing she hadn’t convinced him. “Maybe she’s closer than you think.” She suggested boldly her heart picking up a faster beat.

Kyle just shrugged at her suggestion. “Max is always suggesting I go to some single events in town and try to find Miss Right. What do you think?”

Serena’s face fell. He obviously hadn’t picked up on her hint. “Oh…umm…ya.” Serena said trying to not let her disappointment show. “That’s a great idea Kyle.”

“Are you ok?” Kyle asked her when he felt the dynamic change, an uncomfortableness settling between them.

“Fine. I’m totally fine Kyle. I just have a lot of work to do.”

Kyle nodded as Serena got up and headed towards the shed to get her gardening tools. She felt like smacking herself. Why did she have to have feelings for Kyle Evans of all people? Let him go meet some bimbo in town. She wouldn’t waste her time on unrequited feelings, that if anything would probably amount to a broken heart. She had already suffered too many of them to count.

A few minutes later Alex ran over to Kyle out pf breathe. “Where have you been? We’ve been waiting for you.” He said when he stopped to catch his breathe.

“For me. Why?” Kyle asked.

“It’s Sunday morning, Kyle.” Kyle still stared at him blankly.

“What do we always do Sunday morning?” Alex said trying to remind him.

Kyle sighed. Of course hew knew what they did on Sunday mornings. That was why he was so depressed, knowing the rest of his family were playing and he was being left out. “Play golf.” He answered solemnly.

“Exactly. So why are you over here and not on the green with us?” Alex asked confusion in his eyes.

“Well, I didn’t think that…I mean after everything that happened…that you’d want me to play.”

“Oh were over that Kyle. Your part of this family and Sunday morning golf just wouldn’t be right without you.”

“Really?” Kyle asked hopefully.

“Really.” Alex explained. “Now let’s get going.”

As Serena watered the nearby begonias she watched as Kyle got up and ran after Alex, the first genuine smile spread across his face that she had seen all week. She couldn’t help but smile herself. Happiness is contagious, especially when someone you love is involved.


-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-



“So I have a bone to pick with you. Your messing with my marriage once again” Michael said to Max on the green.

“What are you talking about?”

“Your being to good a husband again. Remember everything you do gets back to Maria.” He scolded Max. “Now she’s complaining I’m not romantic enough.” He complained.

“What did he do this time?” Alex asked with a chuckle. It took them hours to finish their golf games due to these sidetracking conversations but that was the whole point of Sunday morning golf. It was a bonding session, time to let loose and hang with the guys, it wasn’t about the golf at all.

“I don’t know. Apparently he made Liz some romantic dinner on Monday night.”

Max racked his brain and then remembered what had happened Monday night. He couldn’t help but feel pride. He had thought Liz had enjoyed it but the fact she had shared with Maria only reaffirmed that. He wondered exactly how much of that night Liz had shared with Maria.

“I don’t see what the big deal is. I mean it’s not like he cooked it. I’m sure the cook prepared it but she went on about this appetizer like it was orgasmic or something.” Michael rolled his eyes.

“Oh it was.” Max smirked.

What was Max talking about? “Is it something I could make?” He asked.

Max wasn’t going to get into the intimate details. “It’s more something you can do Michael.” He said and laughed at the puzzled look on Michael’s face.

“This isn’t a food thing is it?” Kyle asked with a grin. He knew exactly what it was but decided to keep his mouth shut. He didn’t want to say anything that might upset Michael again.

“Nope.” Max laughed.

Michael looked at Max, then Alex. “You …Oh.” He said as the realization hit him.

“But what’s so unique about that?.” He asked. He had done that for Maria before. What was she complaining about?

“I don’t think it was what he did, but how he did it.” Alex clarified.

“Oh.” Michael said again.

“Ok, your shot.” Max said not wanting to go any further with this conversation as he stepped aside to give Michael the room to make his shot. Some things were just private.

Thanks for your feedback. This is a shorter part but I wanted to post it as promised.I am really starting to enjoy writing this Fic again.


imniotic - Thank you
Antarian - Glad you find the guys funny.
roswell3053 - There will be more romance for Max and Liz as the story goes on.
RhondaAnn - you summed it up well.
Erina- if only Kyle could see how great Serena is.

Part 6

The interviews

Michael’s criminal check had narrowed the decision down to three potential candidates, which the three women were interviewing this afternoon. Once they had made a decision the men would get a chance to meet their selected nanny, giving them the final ok. If the men weren’t happy with their decision they would go back to the drawing board.

Alex had offered them his study to conduct the interviews. His desk was so huge they could easily fit three chairs behind it so they could sit side by side, putting on a united front. They sat a chair that faced them in the middle of the room for the applicant to sit in.

“Ok” Liz looked at Vilandra and Maria with authority as she took the middle seat and pulled out the file folder containing the applications and criminal checks for each candidate that Michael had given her. She also pulled out a checklist of the qualities they were looking for, she quickly handed a copy of it as well as a list of potential questions and copies she had made of the candidates resume to both women. “Let’s do a quick review before we call the first candidate in.” She commanded.

“Ok.” Vilandra said rolling her eyes. Maria caught her look and covered her mouth to stifle a giggle. While they were glad Liz had included them in the interviews they both knew she was the one that was in charge. That had always been Liz’s personality, serious, a planner, with a no funny business manner at all times. It was what made her a great scientist. In truth, Vilandra was glad to have Liz attending to all of these things that didn’t interest her, it gave her more time to attend charity events and other publicity events. However today Liz’s take over manner vexed her greatly, for one thing choosing the right nanny interested her greatly, after all this was her daughter’s well being they were talking about and secondly she was the Queen, shouldn’t her decision weigh more heavily than the rest? Deciding not to argue with Liz, she picked up the first application and began to scan the cover page, she had promised Bella a shopping trip in town. This was high motivation to get through this quickly indeed.

Maria knew what was going through Vilandra’s mind. Between Vilandra’s queen complex and Liz’s ‘I am right’ complex Maria was always ready to pull her own hair out. They were lucky that she was so easy going, another friend might not put up with as much as she did, she was sure of it. However, they were her best friends, despite their idiosyncrasies she knew there was nothing in this world they wouldn’t do for her. With that thought a smile crossed her face and she picked up the first application and joined them in their scrutiny.

As Vilandra looked over the first application she looked at Liz. “Mark? Were interviewing a guy?” She asked, her brow burrowed in confusion.

Liz looked up. “Come on girls.” It was her turn to roll her eyes. “What’s wrong with that.” She asked them in frustration. Were they really going to make an issue about the applicant’s gender?

“Besides shouldn’t we be an equal opportunity employer?” She offered. It was only fair.

“I don’t think that equal opportunity thing applies to the Queen of Antar. I can hire whomever I want for whatever reason I want.” Vilandra said putting the Queen cap on once again.

Maria rolled her eyes at the egotism but she agreed with Vilandra. “I guess I didn’t have a guy in mind for our nanny, you know?” She shrugged at Liz. She knew she was being stereotypical but she just didn’t like the idea at all.

“Actually.” Vilandra said after inspecting his resume more closely. ‘He has lots of experience.”

“And he’s here. Let’s at least meet him.” Liz suggested. It would be rude to send him away without an interview after he had waited for so long. Besides he appeared to be the most qualified for the job, on paper at least, she hoped the girls would take a liking to him after they had met him.

“Ok, Maria, let him in.” Vilandra motioned towards the door.

Once Mark had been shown into the room and given a seat in front of the women, introductions were given.

“Your majesty.” He had bowed to Vilandra.

Vilandra blushed “Don’t think of me as the Queen during the interview. Consider the three of us equals, think of us as the mother’s of the children you will be caring for.” She stated but was secretly pleased he had referred to her that way.

Silence covered the room for a moment as the girls tried to compose themselves, all sure they had turned a deep shade of red. They had been expecting someone a little more feminine, not the gorgeous sun kissed, sandy blonde haired adonis that was now sitting in front of them.

Liz let out a gasp which she quickly covered up with a cough.

Maria couldn’t help but smile at him. He was gorgeous, reminding her of that football player Giorgio that had won the Antar cup last year.

Mark winked at her when he saw her smile. The blonde one was definitely the cutest. Too bad she was married. Of course that had never stopped him before.

Maria couldn’t help but blush when he winked. Was he flirting with her? Liz nudged her under the table to knock her back into reality.

Vilandra didn’t hide her fancy at all. Flirting a little wouldn’t hurt if it was all in fun. He seemed to fancy Maria, if that wink was any indication, but before the interview was over she would find a way for him to turn his attention to her.

“Well shall we start?” Liz asked. Now that they had all thoroughly embarrassed themselves it was time to get down to business.

The interview started out well. Mark had impressive work experience but as the interview progressed it become apparent he was full of himself. His ego was double that of Vilandra, if that was even possible.

“Tell us what the biggest challenge was at your last job?” Liz asked after glancing at the unasked questions left on her list

“Nothing. It was a piece of cake” He said. ‘What can I say? I’m good at what I do.”

“I am sure you are.” Vilandra smiled. “So why do you want to work here?”

“Why not? I mean I have worked for every prestigious family in Antar. I even worked abroad in the Europa colonies for a while. I figure once I have done this I will have done it all.” He smiled.

Vilandra cringed. She had been enjoying flirting with him but this was too much. This man spoke of being a nanny as if it was a sport one could win a medal in.

“Do you like children?” Maria asked and Liz and Vilandra looked at her strangely. Of course he liked children, why else would he be a nanny?

Maria thought it was an excellent question. He had talked about the prestigious families he had worked for, techniques he had used but never mentioned a child by name or spoke warmly of them.

“When they are well behaved.” He answered with a chickle, causing Liz and Vilandra to realize that they had no intention of letting the interview go any further.

“Well thank you for coming. We’ll let you know.” Liz said.

The girls all looked at each other, no words were exchanged but they knew the answer was no. Mark would not be the next nanny.

“Too bad.” Maria sulked. “He was so cute.”


-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-



“I wonder how the interviews are going?” Alex asked.

“Well I can tell you if that guy who just walked by is in the running, I’m voting no.” Michael said with a sulk.

“What guy?” Max asked turning towards Michael who was pointing about 40 feet behind him where a man had just exited the palace through the servants quarters.

Max turned around putting his hand over his forehead to shut out the sun. His eyes followed a sandy haired, well built man walking by looking like the cat who had just caught the canary. “I agree.” There was no way he was going to have free reign of the palace.

By this point Alex had walked over, wondering what the hold up was. Michael was supposed to take his shot.

“What are you 2 looking at?” He asked following their gaze. “He just had an interview didn’t he?” He had seen the 3 candidates and knew one of them was a man.

“I thought he’d be more…”

“Feminine?” Max asked.

“Exactly.” Alex responded.

“Oh he’s definitely not feminine.” Kyle said in jest, adding himself to the conversation. “And think of all the time he would be spending around the place if he gets the position.’

“Oh he’s not getting the position.” Alex exclaimed.

‘And why not?” Kyle asked.

“Turns out I missed something on his background check. He can’t work here.”

“Since when?” Max asked

“Just found out the morning.” Michael quickly answered.

“How convenient.” Kyle laughed.

“Well Michael I am glad you found that out. Safety is the utmost importance. It will have to be one of the other 2 candidates then.” Alex said as Max and Michael nodded. Kyle couldn’t help but laugh at his golfing partners.

“Your sure that’s all it is?” Kyle asked.

“What else could it possibly be?” Alex feigned innocence.

“Oh I don’t know, his biceps, his smile.” Kyle shrugged.

“Oh I didn’t even notice.” Alex looked questionably to Max and Michael.

“Me neither.” They both said as they turned their focus to the game once more.

All Kyle could think was 'Ya right'.

I'm glad that Mark showed his true colors during the interview. He was already thinking of having an affair with Maria! He'd better hope that Michael doesn't ever find out about that! Good of Maria for asking the "Do you like children?" question.

The guys' reaction to Mark was just too funny!

Can't wait to read more!

I finsihed this weeks part early so I decided to post it. I hope you enjoy!

Thanks for your feedback and please keep it coming:

imniotic - Mark certainly had an agenda.The others do to. Read on. Thanks
flyawayraven - Angela gives me a bad vibe too. lol. Anna and Bella are a lot like their mothers.
roswell3053 - you will find out who they choose soon.
RhondaAnn - Maria comes up with the good questions. She does in this part as well. Hope you enjoy.
Erina - you are right the women have some unresolved differences...I put this is for a reason which will be clear once the story unfolds.


Part 7


The next candidate was Jennifer, a blonder in her late 20’s whose previous work experience included being the nanny to the children of the owner of Redmart, a chain of superstores across Antar that were thriving.

Liz decided to start off with the easiest and yet most important question. “So why do you want to work here?”

‘I love kids.” Jennifer gushed honestly and looked at the three women sitting across from her, trying to gauge their reaction.

Liz and Maria shared a knowing glance, glad that this interview would not be a repeat of Mark’s.

“It also pays more than my previous positions. Extra money always helps.” Jennifer added and then instantly regretted it. Would they think she was only in it for the money?

Liz noticed the nervousness cross Jennifer’s face and smiled at her hoping to put her at ease. There was nothing wrong with wanting more money; it was a perfectly valid reason as long as it was not the only reason she was here.

“Vilandra.” Liz said indicating it was her turn to ask a question.

“What is the most important quality that you can offer our children?”

Jennifer smiled. They were asking her what her strength was. She had prepared for this question, practiced her response in front of the mirror at home. “Patience.” She said. “I have a lot of patience.”

“What are your weakness?” Vilandra asked.

Jennifer had prepared for this question two. Interview books always said to state a weakness that is really a strength in disguise. “Sometimes I am to patient. Give too many chances.” She answered but unhappy with the way it sounded added eagerly “ But I can do whatever you want, just let me know and I will.”

“I’m sure you will.” This girl was a little to eager but it was probably the result of nervousness.

It was Maria’s turn to ask a question. Once again she decided to ask something that wasn’t on her question sheet but that she knew was on all three of their minds. “Do you have a boyfriend?”

Jennifer squirmed uncomfortably in her chair.” Is that..is that allowed?” She asked wondering why they were asking the question.

“Of course it’s allowed. You will have off time that you could spend with a boyfriend.” Maria explained.

Jennifer looked at her quizzically, if it was allowed why were they asking the question? Poor clueless Jennifer just didn’t get what a threat an attractive woman could be, but the three women sitting in front of her clearly did and they wanted to know where they would all stand if she did begin to work in their home.

“Oh well that’s good to know but I don’t have a boyfriend right now. I am very serious about my work.”

Vilandra and Maria exchanged an unidentifiable glance.

“When would you be available?” Liz asked trying to cut the tension in the room, embarrassed by Maria’s question.

“I could start in two weeks.” Jennifer answered hopefully. Did this mean they were going to hire her?

“Well that’s all the questions we have for now. Do you have any for us?” Liz asked. She liked it when an interviewee came prepared with questions, showed they were really interested in the position.

“Yes, I was wondering if I get the job will I be reporting only to you three or also to King Whitman, his second in command Maxwell and head of security Michael?” She asked shyly.

“Only to us.” Vilandra answered abruptly before Maria or Liz could even open their mouth, folding her arms in front of her chest.

“We’ll let you know. Thanks for coming in.” Liz said as she ushered Jennifer out of the room and closed the door.

“That was a little abrupt Vilandra.” Liz was exasperated. Didn’t Vilandra know how to be professional? “And it wasn’t even true. You know how involved the men are in their children’s lives. She would be reporting to them too. And Maria, what was up with that line of questioning about a boyfriend?”

“Liz, you were sitting in the same room as us right?” Maria asked dumfounded by Liz’s attitude.

“Yes.”

“That’s all you have to say/” Vilandra asked.

“So she was attractive.” Why did they care about that so much. They all had very devoted husbands.

“Attractive?” Maria asked. That didn’t sum it up at all. The woman had a knockout body, beautiful hair, eyes. She was far from just an attractive Antarian.

“Ok she was a bombshell but she was also sweet, funny, loves kids.”

“I think she just wants to meet our husbands.” Vilandra whined.

Maria nodded in agreement. ‘Did you notice how she mentioned them all by name and positions, she said Michael head of security. Gag.” Maria put her finger in her mouth and made a gagging sound.

“Maria.” Liz couldn’t help but laugh.

“Plus she said she was too patient. She may not be able to discipline the kids. We need someone who can be firm.” Vilandra added more to the case against hiring Jennifer.

“Ok I see where you both are coming from but what if she turns out to be the only good candidate.” Liz asked.

Vilandra looked at her for a minute and then sighed. “Then we will reconsider I guess.”

“Let’s all cross of fingers that this next candidate Angela is perfect.” Maria said.

“Ahmen to that!”


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“Took you long enough.” Michael growled when Kyle came back out onto the green with the lemonade. “Did you make it from scratch?” He teased knowing full well Rosa had made it.

“No, I got distracted by a beautiful woman.” Kyle explained. “She should be leaving the building any minute. Keep your eye on the door.”

At the mention of the word beautiful woman, all three men stopped the intense game and stared towards the servants entrance. A minute later they all watched in awe as a beautiful long legged blonde walked through the door. She turned in their direction for a moment giving them a great view, then ran her fingers through her hair and took out a pair of sunglasses, slowly sauntering towards her car.

“I was right wasn’t I?” Kyle asked but was met with no answer.

“Who is she?” Max asked.

Michael pulled out the piece of paper that was in his pocket. “Must be Jennifer, she was the second interview.”

“What are her qualifications?” Max asked. He hadn’t been involved in the review process with Michael.

“She has impressive work experience.” He explained.

“I hope the girls pick her.” Alex said with a lopsided grin.

All three men were still watching Jessica’s silhouette disappearing in the distance. Sure they loved their wives and would never stray but it didn’t hurt to look right?

“Ya she would be great with the kids and hey she’d be perfect for you Kyle.” Max patted Kyle on the back.

“Ya she’d be great for you.” Michael agreed. “Good thinking Max.”

Kyle couldn’t help but snicker knowing they weren’t thinking of him at all but it was a convenient excuse. Once Again he found himself muttering ‘Ya right.’



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Anna and Zach were sitting in the dirt with Serena helping her with the gardening when Jessica walked by on her way to the parking lot.

“Hello.” She said but continued on. She wasn’t sure if she was allowed to talk to the children before she had been hired but didn’t want to be rude either.

“Hello.” They chimed out in unison.

“Is she going to be our nanny?” Anna asked Serena, once Jennifer had passed.

“She was one of the interviews but I don’t think they’ve made a decision yet.” Serena explained.

“She walks funny.” Zach said “Serena why is she swaying her hips like that?” He asked.

Serena laughed and did her best to explain. “That’s just what some women do.”

Zach looked at her quizzically and then turned towards Anna. “I hope you never walk like that.”

“I won’t.” She said very seriously.

“Hey Serena. Why are my dad and uncles staring over here like that and what are they making those weird motions with their hands for ?”

Even though the men were many feet away she had noticed they were gawking at Jennifer but she wasn’t about to stir up any trouble for them. After all boys would be boys and there was no harm in that. “I have no idea.”


_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_



Angela pulled up into the parking lot and checked her appearance in the rearview mirror. The glasses she had picked up this morning had been a nice touch. She added a few more freckles across the bridge of her nose.

She looked at her watch. The other two interviews must be close to completed by now. Mark most likely showed his true arrogant colors and would be no competition. The question was, how did Jessica do? Did she say anything to give away the fact that she was more interested in the men of the palace then the children. She hoped so, if not her work experience would be real competition for her. Nothing could get in the way of her getting the position today.

She opened the car door, got out and adjusted her skirt. It was long and loose and didn’t show off her nice figure, it certainly wouldn’t impress the men, but it was the women she had to win over today, of that she was sure. She took a deep breathe and headed towards the servants entrance. It was showtime.

So it doesn't seem like many people are reading this story but it's a fun one to write so I am keeping it up. Thank you for those of you who are leaving feedback after every part, it means a lot to me! If anyone else is reading this story and wants to leave some feedback please do...hint hint.

Antarian - yes I am trying to update more often.
RhondaAnn - she's out for something but I can't give it away yet.
Erina - there will be aqngst but I can't say anymore.
roswell3053- You are right. Somthing definetly is not right.


Chapter 8


Anna sighed as she entered Bella’s room to find her playing with her large doll house in the corner of the room. She had spent the last 2 weeks waiting patiently for Bella to apologize for the way she had treated her at the birthday ball but now had resigned herself to the fact the words “I’m sorry “ were not in Bella’s vocabulary.

Anna had talked it over with her mom who had suggested that she take the higher road and let it go but it was hard, and it hurt to know that Bella honestly didn’t think she had done anything wrong.

Bella looked up from her crouched position on the floor to see Anna Standing in the door way. “Hi, want to play with me?” She asked.

Anna’s face beamed. “Sure.” She said as she sat down on the floor next to Bella.

“Your just in time. You can be Molly.” She handed a doll to Anna. “Debra.” She said referring to the doll in her own hand “And Molly are on their way for a day at the spa.”

Anna smiled, grabbed a small purse to attach to Molly’s arm and walked her along the floor with Debra towards the small sign that read spa.

Within minutes, the events of the ball had drifted far from Anna’s mind, soon Debra and Molly were giggly while they enjoyed their facials at the spa and discussed what they would wear for their evening on the town.

A few minutes later Zach wandered up to Bella’s room.

“Hey Zach.” Both girls yelled in unison.

Zach had been bored and was hoping to convince the girls to do something with him. He had gone to Anna’s room first hoping she would spend some time in the tree house with him, he had stopped asking Bella to go long ago because she never wanted to get dirty. When Anna’s room was empty he had decided to try Bella’s room. He wasn’t surprised to find them playing dolls. He hated dolls and hoped they wouldn’t ask him to join them.

“Do you want to play?” Bella asked.

Zach pushed his hands in his pockets nervously. “No. I don’t really like dolls.”

“Oh come on. We need someone to play Brad.” Bella insisted. When Zach shook his head she decided to try whining instead. “Please Zach. We need you.”

Anna had watched the exchange quietly. She felt bad for Zach, she knew how much he hated dolls but she wanted him to play too. She just loved having him around and she wanted Bella to be happy too so she decided to offer him a compromise. “It would be great if you would play. How about 20 minutes and then I’ll go to the tree house with you and we can play dinosaurs?” She suggested.

Zach smiled. When Anna looked at him with her big brown eyes he couldn’t refuse her. Besides, if he sat through 20 minutes of this he would get to go the tree house, which was what he had originally wanted. “Ok.”

“Great!” Anna beamed as her eyes locked with Zach’s and he joined her on the carpet, both missing the daggers Bella was shooting their way.

Bella’s jealousy surged through her. This was her room and her dolls and they were going to play it her way. She picked up the Brad doll and handed it to Zach. “Your Brad. Brad is Debra’s husband and he is taking her out tonight.”

“Since when is Brad Debra’s husband?” Anna asked.

“Since always.” Bella pouted.

Anna wondered what was going on. When they usually played Debra and Molly were not married, and why did Bella’s doll get to be the married one and not hers? “That’s not how we usually play.” She muttered with confusion.

Bella rolled her eyes at Anna.“You obviously haven’t played in a while.”

“So what am I supposed to do, I mean what is Brad supposed to do?” Zach asked.

“Go change him into a tuxedo and then pick Debra up at the spa.”

“Who’s taking Molly out then?” Anna asked.

“Well she doesn’t have a date so I guess she can go home and watch TV.”

“Oh.” Anna ‘s heart sank. She remembered why she hated playing dolls with Bella. Only Bella’s doll’s got to have fun.

Zach could see how sad Anna was but he had an obvious solution. “Brad can take both of you.” He suggested.

“No.” Both girls said in unison, as Zach just sat and shook his head. Suddenly he felt exactly like he did that night at the ball. He had obviously done something wrong but had absolutely no idea what. He looked at his watch, 15 more minutes and he would be on his way to the tree house


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After being greeted by the three women Angela took a seat on the chair in the center of the room.

“What a beautiful gown.” She said to Vilandra.

“Why thank you, Angela.” Vilandra smiled, pleased with the compliment.

Angela smiled in return inwardly commending herself for her own choice of outfit, it was perfect, with her true identity, she could upstage Queen Vilandra any day, but today was not the day for that. Today was the day she would be sweet, compassionate, motherly and intelligent. Today the three women in front of her would say a thank you to god for delivering them exactly what they were looking for.

Liz looked at the page in front of her. “Why don’t we get started. Why do you want to work here?”

“Well, my last job ended a few weeks ago, the kids were starting to get older and no longer required a nanny so I am looking for something new. This job appealed to me because I definitely have the required experience and I want to do my part to help Antar city. Being a nanny to the heir of Antar and her family would be a great responsibility, one I am both ready for and would be honored to take.”

The three women smiled at Angela’s response. She was like a breathe of fresh air compared to the previous candidates.

“Tell us about your work with Jenna and Arnold White. They had four children right?” Vilandra asked.

Angela nodded. “What did you have to offer them?”

“Well they are lovely children. I just loved them to death, but when I arrived they were in need of boundaries. There father traveled a lot with his music and their mother often accompanied him, so they were a bit insecure, it was to be expected with such little stability in their life. I offered them love, so that they would feel secure. They came to know they could depend on me. I also set strict limits for them and I found that after a few months we had found the perfect ct balance of extremely well behaved yet happy children.”

“What is your best quality as a nanny?” Maria asked.

“My creativity. I believe all children can learn if taught in a way that is meaningful to them. I use my creativity, when one way doesn’t work I try another until we finally reach the goal we were striving for.”

“What area do you need to work on as a nanny?” Maria asked.

“I get too attached to the children I work with. Some see it as a job, to me it is so much more than that.” Angela smiled at this one. It was really a positive in disguise and it got her the job every time.

“Do you have any questions for us?” Liz asked.

“Yes. Can you tell me a little bit about the children’s schedule?” She asked.

“Well they have school here at the palace until 2 pm and then we require your services until 8 pm. We would also like you to be available for the day on Saturday. Sundays you would have off.”

Angela nodded in understanding. “So the children take music in school?” She asked

Maria perked up when she heard the word music. “No, why do you ask?”

“I play three instruments. I would love to put a music program together for them. I could teach them twice a week.”

“What a marvelous idea.” Maria said pointing to musical aptitude on the list in front of her. It had been one of their criteria.

‘Oh, do the children have food allergies or preferences?” She inquired.

“They are picky eaters, but Rosa the cook will look after all of that.” Liz responded.

“Any other questions?” Liz asked.

“No thank you.”

“We will let you know soon n.” Liz said as she walked her to the door.

“Take your time. I know this is an important decision.” Liz smiled. Angela seemed so patient and genuine, unlike the other 2 candidates who obviously had ulterior motives.

“Well?” Liz asked Maria and Vilandra giddily after she had closed the door behind her.


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Bella was not in a great mood. Despite her best efforts to gain Zach’s attention, as soon as the 2o minutes of playing dolls was up, Anna and Zach had taken off to the tree house together. Now she was standing outside of her father’s office waiting for the interview to end so that her mother could take her shopping.

She saw a woman with short brown hair exit the room and then the door closed once again. “Excuse me.” She said politely.

“Yes?” Angela asked turning around to face her.

“Are the interviews done? My mother is supposed to take me shopping.” She explained to the stranger standing in front of her.

“Yes they are done. Just go ahead and knock.”

“Are you going to be my new nanny?” She asked.

“I sure hope so.” Angela answered. “You must be Bella.” She gave her another smile followed by a wink.

Bella’s eyes went as wide as saucers. ‘How did you know?”

“Why, because of your beauty of course. Everyone knows you’re the most beautiful child in Antar city.”

Bella thought about it for a moment and then spoke again. “My cousin Anna is beautiful too.”

“She’s pretty but she doesn’t begin to compare to you.” Angela said, glad she had studied pictures of the children prior to the interview, so that she would know who was who.

Bella smiled at the words she had longed to hear. She was beautiful wasn’t she. ‘Thank you. I hope you will be my nanny. What is your name?” She asked.

“My name is Angela.”

Angela. She liked her. She would be sure to mention it to her mother.


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The women discussed Angela behind the closed door.

“She seemed mature, had lots of experience.” Vilandra mentioned.

“She’s a musician. We did write musical aptitude on the list.” Maria added.

“I like her.” Liz said.

But despite all of the wonderful qualities they pointed out, it was what none of them said that mattered most, she wasn’t the threat that Jessica was.

There was a knock at the door. “Mom, are we going shopping?” Bella asked as she popped her head into the room.

“Go ahead.” Liz said. “We should sleep on it anyway. We can make our decision tomorrow morning and we can talk to the men then.”

“Thanks Liz.” Vilandra picked up her purse.

All three women smiled at each other before Vilandra left, knowing that although they would sleep on it, the decision had already been made it.


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“That must be the last interview.” Kyle said when he saw Angela exiting through the servants quarters like the other two candidates had done.

“Where?” Michael’s head snapped back quickly to get a good look at her.

“What do you think?” Max asked.

“She reminds me of a librarian.” Alex said with a chuckle after thinking for a minute.

“True.” Max said noticing her glasses and attire. Why were here clothes so loose fitting?

“The women will be out here soon letting us know what their choice is. We better discuss it now so that we are all on the same page.” Michael explained.

“Good idea.” Alex said.

“I still think Jessica would be a better choice.”

“True but I get the feeling our wives won’t be interested in hiring her.” That was a fact.

“And why is that?” Kyle added with a smirk trying to give them a hard time.

“You know why Kyle.” Michael glared Kyle’s way.

“True but I would rather have Angela then Brian.” Alex explained.

“Definitely not my first choice but Brian should be our last choice.” Max replied.

“Brian, isn’t a choice at all, I told you something came back on the additional criminal check I did.” Michael wriggled his eyebrows hoping they would all play along.

“Um this nanny should be picked for his or her child caring ability, not their attractiveness, you do now that right?” Kyle asked.Sometimes he really wondered about these guys.

“Of course we know that but they are all suitable candidates, and Brian would be a distraction for our wives, a very bad distraction.” Michael explained.

“The worse distraction.” Max added.

“Ok so that’s our story and were sticking to it right?” Alex asked.

“Angela.” The three men said in unison while Kyle laughed to himself.


Finding My Way Home was updated yesterday on the AU board.