Latino Lovers (AU,M/L,ADULT) Pt 13a - AN 11/26/04 [WIP]

[Amber Eyes]

Thanks to roswelllover for making me this wonderful banner!



Author: Christmas Nazi (aka Amber Eyes, Suzanne)
Title: Latino Lovers
Catagory: Max & Liz (AU)
Rating: ADULT
Sypnosis: Liz really wants to learn how to Latino dance, but is too shy to ever have the courage to try the daring sexy moves. Maria asks her previous latino dance partner and friend Max Evans - who is now a dance teacher who recently opened his own dance studio in LA - to teach Liz how to dance. But instead of teaching her in a glass full of people, their lessons are one on one Can Max give Liz the courage to do what she's always wanted? And the most important question - can they control their attraction and feelings for each other while practicing the sexy dance moves? To make matters worse, Max has sworn never to get involved with his students.
Disclaimer: I do not own Roswell, or any of the characters, those belong to Jason Katims, Melinda Metz, UPN etc. All I own is this story, which stems from my imagination.
Authors note When I was a way on holiday to Tunisia, I went to this bar/dance club place and they had latino dancing!! I couldn't latino dance to save my life, so while sitting there watching the couples, I thought....hmmm, Max and Liz story time!! and the ideas just came to me. Being on holiday can do wonders for me and my muse Hope you'll enjoy this!



Part 1

He dipped her her in a low swoop then pulled her back up hard against him. She caressed his right cheek and looked him directly in the eyes and he took hold of her right leg and raised it against his hip. Slowly he pulled her along the dance floor, her left leg trailed after her. In one swift move he uprighted her balance and spun her around, her short sexy spanish styled dress flaring out gracefully. He grabbed her left leg with his right hand and rasied it while his left hand held her waist and supported her back as he dipped her her and leant in seductively close as a final move to the dance. His body pressed intimately against hers. The audience went wild, applauded and whistled.


Liz switched off the TV and sighed, leaning her chin in her hands, her elbows braced upright on the glass coffee table. Liz stared wistfully st the blank screen.

"I wish I could dance like that."

Maria, lounging on the couch, potato chip midway to her mouth, looked at her friend.

"You really wanna learn how to latino dance?"

Liz gave another dreamy wistful sigh. "Yeah, my dream....it's so cool seeing the moves they do....so daring and....seductive...." Liz shook her head regretfully and faced her friend. "I'd never have enough courage to do even the simplest of moves, let alone all the ones they just did onscreen."

Maria suddenly sat up straighter, a mischievous twinkle in her eye and a chesire cat grin appeared on her face.

"You know Liz, I used to latino dance a few years back."

Liz's eyes went wide. "Ok, so we've been living together as roommates for the past 2 years and you've never thought of mentioning that fact about yourself?"

"Well, its not like the subject ever came up." The cheshire cat grin came back again. "You know, if you really do want to learn, I know someone who could teach you."

Liz looked uncertain. "Someone? can't you teach me?"

"Liz, its been years since I last latino danced. I'm kinda rusty at it even if I still remember the moves."

"Oh."

"Don't worry Liz, I have afriend who used to be my dance partner, we've kept iin touch since I left the latino dance world. He's a dance teacher now and has recently opened up his own dance studio right here in LA. I could give him a call and you can get started on lessons."

Liz looked kinda pale. 'Uh oh, hope Liz doesn't decide to barf up or pass out on me, my suggestion wasn't that bad was it?' Maria thought.

"H...him?" Liz asked nervously.

"Yes, his name is Max Evans. Liz stop worrying, he'll train you from the beginningm and it'll build your confidence too. whadda ya say Liz? wanna put that dream of yours into effect?"

Liz still looked unsure.

"If its any consolation, Max is a really nice guy and a total babe, tall dark and handsome, not to mention that hard toned body and that nice tight ass....." Maria stopped to look at her frienda mortified red face. It was kinda funny seeing her go through seven shades of red. "Ahem....sorry, I got carried away there. Quit worrying Liz, you'll be fine. Come on, whadda ya say? shall I give him a call?"

"Um...how much will it cost? cos I heard dance lessons can be really expensi--"

"Liz, I'll take care of it. He's my friend, we'll work something out. Now, are you in? or are you out?"

Liz thought for a minute then smiled. 'Well, what have I got to lose?'

"I'm in!"

Maria beamed. "Great!" and proceeded to dial some numbers.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~

2 days later, Liz and Maria stood outside a building complex that read: 'Latino Lovers Dance Academy'

'Unusual, but unique name for a business' Liz thought amused.


After entering the bulding and talking to the secretary, Liz and Maria walked up a flight of stairs and stopped outside the studio.

Max was in the middle of a lesson, he and his dance partner - presumably another teacher - demonstrated some moves to a group of students, most of them seemed to be aged 20 to 35.

Liz watched in amazement at just how fluent the their moves were to one another, they were so nsync (sp? it probably isn't spelt like that, but am thinking of the band for some reason!) and comfortable with each other, their closeness brought a blush to Liz's cheeks. They moved in time to the beat of the music and demonstrated grace with a hint of sensualness.

They finished the dance and turned to face the class. "Ok everyone, and that's what we'll be learning next week.Well done everyone!" Max and the other students clapped, then dispersed to pick up their belongings. "See you all next week!"

Maria waved and pulled Liz with her as she walked in to the studio. Max saw Maria, grinning he walked over to his long time friend.

Liz's breath caugh in her throat. Maria wasn't kidding when she went through Max's attributes! The man was a positive adonis!! his boyish good looks and dark raven hair took her breath away, he wore black pants and a black t-shirt - oh god! she could see all his muscles rippling through the shirt as he walked. As he got closer, Liz stopped breathing all together. His eyes was a liquid golden amber that she could drown in if she stared into them too long. 'Ok, how the hell am I gonna surved this?! and he's suppose to be my teacher?! Ok Liz, just breathe, just remmeber the breathe properly! and don't hyperventilate!'

"Maria! good to see you again!" Max and Maria engulfed each other in a friendly hug.

"Good to see you too Max!" Pulling apart Maria looked at her friend. "Wow, so you finally did it, you've opened up your every own dance school."

Max grinned, Liz nearly died when she saw it. 'Ok, if the lessons and embarrassment don't kill me, he definitely will.' Max suddenly turned his attention to her. 'Yup, heaven here I come!'

"And you must be Liz Parker."

Liz gave him a shy smile and extended her hand to shake his. "Nice to meet you Mr Evans."

Max took her hand but didn't shake it, instead he brought it to his lips.

"Nice to meet you too, and please call me Max." Max was mesmerized by this petite shy young girl, dark brown chocolate hair cascaded down her back, deep brown hypnotic eyes pulled him into her depths, her small frame seemed fragile and soft. For a brief moment he wondered what she would feel like pressed up against him. Max quickly banished that thought before his mind wandered too far. Even though he was having these thoughts and images going through his mind, one other thought came to mind. He never got involved with his students. God help him when it came to Liz parker! he was going to need the extra control.

"Max, can I talk to you for a moment?" Maria asked and pulled him to one side away from Liz.

"Whats up?"

"Max, I need you to do me a favour. I need you to teach Liz how to latino dance."

"Well, sure, isn't that why you're here to begin with?" Max looked puzzled.

"Well, yes and no. Max, I don't want Liz to learn in a class full of people. She's really shy and kinda lacks in courage, so I need you to teach her one on one, build up her confidence and let her live her dream."

"Wow, I can't believe you just said that in one breath!"

"So, will you do it or not? and I'll pay for her lessons."

"Well, its not how I usually run a business....." Max looked back at the brunette. Something tugged at his heart, she drew him in for some reason.... "Ok Maria, as a favour to you, but you owe me. Oh, and forget about the payment, I'll save that for the next favour you owe me."

"Great!"

They walked back over to Liz.

"Hey, Liz, I know we've just met, but I was wondering if you would accompany me to my sisters wedding this weekend."

"W..what?"

"When it comes to latino dancing, you need to be confident and comfortable with your partner. So you and I need to get to know each other. And I work a little differently to most dance teachers." he said with a wink. In truth, he would never do this with anyone else, and if he needed to build up Liz's confidence, then he had just the idea on how to start the lessons. All he had to do was keep himself in check and not go too far with himself.

"Don't worry Liz, it'll be fine, and if Max ever hurts you, I'll hunt him down and kill him." Maria glared at Max then grinned.


"Um, well, ok, I guess. Hey, you are the teacher after all." 'An eccentric teacher to say the least.'

"Great, then its all sorted. Your lesson starts this weekend."




Ok, so shall I continue this? if not, I'll stick with my other stories

[Amber Eyes]

WOW! check out all the feedback!! well, since you are all interested, I'll continue this (along with my other stories.)

Hope you like this chapter!



Part 2

The weekend came all too soon, and Liz was sitting next to Max in his silver Mercedes. heading for his sisters wedding.

Max glanced at Liz, who was staring out the window, watching the scenery fly by.

"You really do look beautiful tonight Liz."

Liz look at him and gave him a shy smile.

"Thank you Max, you look pretty good yourself." Good was an understatement when she saw him in a white shirt and black tux, hair neatly combed back. Ooh lala!! her heart had started to beat a mile a minute then stopped to do the jitterbug.

Max gave her one of his killer grins and Liz blushed as red as a strawberry. Good thing it was dark in the car!

After a while of general chitchat on the basis of starting point to get to know each other - both had the same taste in bands such as Evanescence and Lifehouse. Liz preferred to read romance novels that ranged from contempory to periodic. Max on the other hand, preferred mysteries and intrigue.

Soon they arrived at the reception, which took place in a grand hotel. Liz could see why a large lace was needed, the place was packed with family, friends and acquaintances.


After the best man - Alex gave his rather hilarious speech, they all toasted to the happy couple, before the bride - Isabel, and her groom and new husband Jesse, made their way to the dance floor. The band they hired started to play a love ballad as the two newlyweds gazed adoringly at each other and swayed to the music.

Soon, other couples started to join them on the dance floor.

Max pulled Liz to her feet.

"Come on, lets dance. Your lesson starts now."

"Now? but--"

"Don't worry, we'll start off small."

Max lead Liz to the centre of the dance floor then gaze down at her; she was biting her lower lip nervously, Max just smiled. He took her hand in his, and held her small waist with the other in a formal dance gesture.

"Lesson 1. In Latino dancing, you need to be comfortable with the partner you're dancing with, so we'll start with regular formal dancing to let you get used to me. Is that alright with you?"

Liz nodded and gave him a small nervous smile.

"Good, then lets begin."

They swayed to the music, while getting used to being in each others personal space. They kept a respective space between their bodies as they danced.

Liz gazed up at this handsome man dancing with her, it blew her away that he could be that good looking, yet he wore no wedding ring on his finger; you would think that some lucky woman would've snapped him up already. Maybe he had a girlfriend.... Liz broke out of her thoughts when she noticed half the females in the room had their eyes trained on them....or more specifically....on Max.

"Looks like you have a fan club."

Max looked around and spotted all the single females look appreciatively at him; hell, even the married ones were giving him the eye!

"I'm not the only one who has admirers." Max said with an amused smile.

Liz looked around, and sure enough, most of the guys in the room were looking at her with an appreciative grin on their faces and twinkles in thier eyes. Some of them even raised their champagne flute at her in a gesture of saying 'hello.' Liz blushed at the attention she was receiving and looked directly in front of her, which resulted in Max's chest.

"You know," Max began "I'm glad you agreed to come here with me tonight. If not, then I'd probably have to claw my way out of here, with the way some of those women are looking at me. It's I'm their last meal or something." Max gave a chuckle.

Liz laughed. "Yeah well, too bad for them, you're already taken tonight."

Max joined in her laughter, then spun her out in a loop before pulling her back in, this time flush up against him, a twinkle danced in his eyes. Liz quickly sucked in a breath when she felt him pull her against him, his hand at her waist securing her to him.

"Liz, if this is too close for you--"

"N...no, it...it's fine." Liz shyly looped her arms around behind his neck.

"Are you sure? I wouldn't want you to feel pressured. I want you to learn in your own time; plus I wouldn't want that boyfriend of yours to get jealous and come after me with an axe."

"Um, no, this is fine, and I don't have a boyfriend." Liz replied softly.

"What is wrong with the world? I would've thought a beautiful woman such as yourself, would be snapped up by some lucky guy in a second."

"Um, no...not yet."

"Well then they're all fools."

Liz simply smiled up sincerely at him.

"Well what about you? Isn't your girlfriend bothered with you becoming a latino teacher? you know, with all the moves that you do..." Liz felt her face heat up with where her words were going. "Um...you know what, just forget I said that. It doesn't matter." Liz quickly looked to one side to avoid his gaze.

Max simply gave her a smile. "Well, I've always wanted to teach people how to dance professionally, and my girlfriend doesn't mind because I don't have one."

"Oh. Well then, I'll just reiterate what you said before. 'What is wrong with this world?!'"

They both laughed and continued to dance, now completely comfortable being in each others arms.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Max pulled to a stop outside Liz's house and switched off.

"Well, here we are."

"Yeah.....um, thanks for the ride."

"You're welcome. And Liz? thanks for coming with me tonight."

"Well, its kinda hard to say no when that's where my lesson is to begin." Liz said jokingly.

Max hesitated then spoke. " Liz, did you have a good time tonight? I know it was odd of my to ask you to attend a wedding with me--"

"Max, don't worry, I did have a good time; infact I enjoyed myself very much. And, ok, your teaching methods are a little odd to me right now, but it seems to be working. You did bring out some of that confidence iin me."

Max gave an inward sigh of relief, but grinned on the outside.

"Goodnight Max." Liz started to open the door to get out. Max quickly sprang out too. (A/N: um, did that just sound kinda dodgy like it meant something else? lol. it wasn't intended!)

"I'll walk you to the door."

"Max, you don't have to do that."

"Liz, what kind of beast would I be if I didn't walk the lady to the door?"

Liz laughed. "Ok Max, your choice."

Together they walked in companionable silence to Liz's front door.

"What are you doing the eveing after tomorrow?"

Liz took her key out from her bag. "Nothing much, why?"

"I thought we'd move onto lesson 2."

"Sure, that'd be fine. What are we going to do?"

Max just grinned mysteriously and wagged his eyebrows up and down. "You'll see. And Liz, wear something that's suitable for going out at night, nothing too formal."

Liz laughed at his cryptic words and eyebrow wagging. "Ok Max."

"Great! I'll pick you up at about eight then?"

"Sure, eight's fine."

"'Night Liz."

And with that last goodnight, Max walked back to his car, while Liz let herself into her apartment.



TBC!! well? how was it?

[Amber Eyes]

Hi everyone, thanks for all the feedback and waiting for patiently for a new part. As promised, here's the new chapter, I wrote it extra longer in appreciation for your support


Hope you like it!


Lana! hey I haven't seen you in a long while! Nice to see you're back Btw, I've been reading your story: when we dance, and I just wanted to let you know how mcuh I'm enjoying it!



Part 3

"So, Max is taking you out again tonight huh?" Maria sat on Liz's bed and looked at her friend with eager enthusiasm.

Liz picked out an outfit and tossed it on the bed.

"maria, he's not really taking me out, out. It's just where my second lesson is suppose to be. I must say Maria, you friend sure has an eccentric way of teaching."

"Yeah well, sometimes different approaches need to be used for people to learn." Maria hid her mischievous grin; little that Liz know that it was her who suggested Max teach her one on one. There's absolutely nothing wrong with giving Liz what she wants, plus a little matchmaking for her two friends. Maria cackled gleefully inside.

Liz looked at her friend and frowned.

'Ok, what the hell is Maria thinking about? she has this kinda of expression thats...I dunno....sly? evil plotting?'

"Hey, Maria? what are you thinking about?"

"Huh? Oh! er...nothing, nothing at all.....so, um, what are you going to wear tonight?" 'Damn that girl can read me so easily.'

"Um..." Liz picked up a pair of black pants and a velvet red strappy top that hung lowish at the back, and at the front, it cropped into loose folds held by the strap that draped down the front showing jsut a little cleavage, but nothing too slutty or trashy. "How about this?"

"That's good, sexy yet casual. Ok, now lets move onto hair and makeup."

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A while later, the doorbell chimed twice.

"Oh god! Maria, that's Max! and I'm not even ready yet! I knew I shouldn't have let you talk me into this hairstyle! Now I'm gonna be late!"

"Liz, relax, I'll keep Max busy, you just concentrate on finishing up here." with that, Maria bounded out the room.


"Max hey! come in, Liz will be down in a minute."

Maria showed Max to the living room and asked if he wanted anything to drink. He declined politely.

Just then, Liz entered the room, and when Max saw her, he quickly stood and sucked in a breath. He gave her the once over and felt his southern regions stir to life. Liz took his breath away wearing a strappy red top, black pants and black strappy sandal heeled shoes. Her hair was loose, wavy and tousled down her back, the dark bown contrasting against the rich red of the velvet.. Her lips were lightly glossed and red as strawberries, so much so that he ached to kiss her her just to see if they did indeed taste like strawberries. Too bad this wasn't a date, if it was, then he'd be all over her by now. But he knew it would be unprofessional of him to get involved with a student of his, especially since she was a friend of Maria's.

'Max ol' buddy ol' pal, you gotta banish these naughty thoughts you have floating through your head and think of the rule. Never get involved with your dance students.' 'Oh shut up brain! what do you know. It's easier said than done when temptation is right infront of my eyes.' 'Tsk Tsk. I would've thought you would have more self control Max.' 'Like I said, shut up. Damn conscience!'

"L...Liz, you look wonderful." Max tried ro control his voice to sound normal rather than an embarrassed high pitched squeak.

"Thank you Max, you look good yourself." 'Good wasn't the word for it, more like yummy, or you look good enough to eat, come to mind. Max is wearing black pants and a dark green/olive coloured shirt, his gorgeous boyish good looks makes even the simplest of outfits look totally delectable on him. Oh god! Liz, what the hell are you thinking! this is your dance tutor for goodness sake! and when did I get so bold with the thinking? well, its a good thing its all in my head.'

"Well, you two better go get started on that lesson, the night's not getting any younger." Maria quickly ushered them out the door. "Have fun!"

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

15 minutes later, Liz found herself staring at flashing neon lights and a neon sign that was in the style of a UFO flashing the word 'CRASHDOWN.' The place was so packed, the queues disappeared around the next block.

"Liz, welcome to the Crashdown Club. The newest and hottest place to be on the map."

Liz looked up at Max. "You're taking me clubbing?"

Max looked down at her and smiled.

For our second lesson, I'm going to teach your body how to become familiar with the different types of rhythms in music. You see, in latino dancing, there are different rhythms and beats, and you need to be able to move your body to suit these beats and also improvise as well. So now we're gonna go and practice, and what better place to go than a club? they play all kinds of music here. It's like a dancer's buffet; and besides, my friend Michael owns this place. Come on, let's go inside." Max took her hand and lead her towards the club.

Instead of queuing at the back of the line, Max greeted the bouncer like they were old friends, who then let them in after a moment of friendly chitchat and introductions.

Inside, the place was dark except for the strobbing lights and limply lit lamps on the walls. Booming dance music pulsed from the large speakers throughtout the club. Liz could feel the vibration from where she stood.

Max lead her to the bar.

"Hey Mikey! How's it goin'?"

Michael looked up from pouring a blend of cocktails and grinned. He finished the blend and took payment in from the clientele before strolling over to talk to Max.

"hey Maxwell, long time no see, so what have you been up to man?"

"Not much, just opened my own dance studio recently, so I've been taking care of business. So how's business for you?"

"Jam packed since open night. If it keeps up, I'll be a rich man in no time." Michael said with a grin. It was then that he noticed how Max's arm was drapped over the petite brunette's shoulders. "So who's your girlfriend?"

Max and Liz exchanged a look of shock.

"Oh, she's not my girlfriend. Mikey, I'd like you to meet Liz Parker, she's my dance student, and I thought it'd be good to hold the next lesson here since you play a variety of music here."

"Sure, whatever you say dude. Nice to meet you Liz." he shook her hand, then rasied an amused eyebrow "Are you sure you two aren't dating? cos you's look really cosy right now."

'What the hell is he talking about?' Both Max and Liz thought simultaneously.

It was then that Max realized that he'd unconsciously placed his arm around Liz's bare shoulders. Quickly, he pulled away, his cheeks flushed in embarrassment. He really hadn't meant to do that! It was as if his arm decided to zero in on her shoulders on its own accord.

"Uh, well, it was nice catching up you Mike."

Quickly, Max lead Liz away from the bar and an amused grinning Michael, and onto the packed dance floor. Dance music and laser beam lights swirled around them, Liz suddenly felt suffocated and a tad afraid. First of all, how was she suppose to dance on this crushing dance floor? and secondly, the way everyone was dancing.....so close and intimate against each other, hands roaming, hips swaying.... Oh god! she couldn't do this! She was about to turn away whens he felt someone pull her close against them. She looked up to find Max's handsome face gazing down at her. He spoke something to her, but she couldn't hear him; all she saw was him mouthing something about lesson 2.

Max looked down at Liz. God! she was so beautiful. The dimness of the place, the packed dance floor made it impossible to move a lot; maybe bringing Liz here was a huge mistake. With the current environment around him, how the hell was he going to last the night being completely professional towrads her? Lets face it, the unintentional trap had been set, too bad it had been for himself!

Realizing he was staring at her, he said something regarding their second lesson, when he saw her face scrunch up in confusion, he realized that she couldn't hear him over the loud music. The only thing to do was lean in and talk directly into her ear. He could smell a strawberry scent wafting from her hair and something that was completly Liz as he spke into her ear. He resisted the urge to playfully nip her earlobe as he pulled away.

Liz sucked in a breath as Max leaned in to talk into her ear. warm breath tickled her sensitive ear with every word he spoke. He told her to relax and to let her body listen to the beat and rhythm of the music so it can guide her. At first, she was awkward and shy, but after a while she relaxed and began to get into the swing of things.

Suddenly the lights blacked out all together in the club rendering everyone in darkness, then flashing laser lights cut through the darkness, and it remained the only source of light on the dance floor. A haunting voice filled the speakers, then drums and guitar intrumental music faded in. Amy Lee's voice continued to flow without words, just a simple 'ahh' rising and falling.

"Let the music flow within you." Max said into her ear.

Feeling bolder now, Liz wrapped her arms around Max's neck and pressed herself flush up against him. Max's hand went from her waist to her hips as they swayed together, hip against hip, body rubbing against body intimately. Max buried his head against her neck and breathed in her scent, it intoxicated him. They continued to sway against one another as the rest of the band from Evanescence played their intruments to the full rock beat of the song Lies. Max felt his blood stir with Liz's tiny body pressed and moving so intimately against his, his breathing became shallow and laboured. His hand raomed over her back as he lost himself in the powerful musical beat. He nuzzled against her soft neck and heard her moan in pleasure.

Liz had no idea what had happened to her. Either it was all her confidence coming out to play, or she was possessed. After Max had told her to let the music guide flow within her, she'd closed her eyes and let the music flow through her like the river; her body took over and before she knew it, she and Max were pressed together in a way real couples or lovers would. Yet she felt no shame, and no embarrassment as they moved against each other. She felt Max's hands on her back, his head against her neck, it felt so right, so good, amoan of pleasure escaped her throat as she flet him nuzzle her neck, then his mouth leaving a wet trail of burning kisses along her neckline. 'Oh yeah, this was definitely beyond good.' She couldn't stop what was happening even if she'd wanted to, it felt so good, so right, as if she and Max belonged together. Teacher or not, it didn't matter at this moment, right now it was jsut the two of them, 2 young people enjoying themselves in each others arms, in each other's company. They were oblivious to everyone else around them, it was just them in each other's embrace and the sensual beat of the music. Track after track of music went by, yet they never left the dance floor for a break. Never leaving each other's arms.


High above the dancing people, on a balcony, a DJ took off his headphones as he saw the greeting figure approach him.

"Hey Kyle."

"hey Mike, what's up?"

"Max is here."

"Really? where?"

They walked over to the edge of the rail and peered at the mass of people below. Michael scanned the crowd and pointed. "Right there."

"Woah, who's the chick?"

"Liz Parker."

"His chick? who would've thought. I swear if he didn't date soon or even get laid, the guy must be gay, guess I was wrong."

"Actually, our Maxie boy here said she as his dance student and not his girl."

Kyle raised an eyebrow. "Seriously? the way thry're a;; over each other right now says something different."

The two friends continued to look down at the dancing couple.

'Teacher, student my ass!" Michael thought. 'These two have so much chemistry together, it would probably burn down his club if he wasn't careful. This so called dance lesson was anything but 'professional' and if fate had its way with them, nothing could stop the inevitable.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Max once again pulled his car to a stop outside Liz's house. He switched off, and both sat in awkward silence in the dark. The only light came from a street lamp a couple of yards away.

"Max--" "Liz--" they both said at the same time and gave an awkward laugh.

"You go first." Liz offered.

"Liz, about what happened tonight....I'm very sorry, it was unprofessional of me to act the way I did, and I'll completely understand if you want to find another dance teacher."

Liz looked down at her hand and bit her loer lip. She breathed out a sigh and looked up at Max.

"I don't want another teacher. I want you. I'm sorry that you feel you've failed as a teacher tonight, but I'm not. I'm glad what happened between us happened. Max, I've never acted like that in my life, but being with you, you gave me the courage to be the person that's hidden deep inside of me. As a student, I don't think you've failed; in fact, I think your method of teaching worked out very well." Liz was silent for a moment before she spoke. "If you think that by continuing to teach me will cause you unprofessionalism, then I'll understand if you'd rather not teach me anymore. You've got other students you need to teach, it won't matter if you lose one." Liz felt tears prickle the back of her eyes. "Goodnight Max." Liz went to open the door to get out when she felt Max's hand on her arm. She turned and faced him, and was met with a lost little boy look - confusion and....sadness? clouded his features. He tried to say something, but nothing came out.

Silence passed between them.

"Max, I have to go now." Liz told him softly and tried to get out the car once again. But Max still held onto her arm, restricting her to leave.

"Liz, I....." He was once again lost for words.

Liz breathed out a breath and wet her lips. "Look Max, why don't you go home and think things through? if you think I will be jeopardising your professionalism or career, then we can end this now. If not, then you can call me for our next lesson. It's up to you. Goodnight Max."

Reluctantly, Max let her go and watched her disappear into her house.

Max blew out a breath and leaned against the headrest. He closed his eyes and ran a hand over his tired face, trying to clear his thoughts; but they remained jumbled up.

Max sighed and started the engine heading for home. He'd take a nice cold shower to relieve a certain aching area, then he'd head for bed. His thoughts always seemed to clear up when he was relaxed in the darkness of his room.


Max switched off the bathroom light, padded acrosss his room, in just a pair of black boxer shorts, crawled into bed and staired up at the ceiling. What was wrong with him? he hadn't been acting like himself ever since he met Liz Parker - a friend of Maria's - oh god! Maria was gonna kill him and have him for breakfast if she found out how he'd come on to Liz. He couldn't think about Maria's wrath right now. Right now he had to focus on his feeling for Liz. Ok, sure, he found her attractive, and he was happy to be the one who brought out the confidence in her......Max's mind drifted to Liz's boldness on the dance floor when she had wrapped her arms around him and pressed herself up against him as they danced......but why had he acted the way he did? why had he felt something in his heart that tugged towards her? Max rolled over onto his side and hugged his pillow, his eyes closed in contemplation. Maybe he was acting this way because.....oh no! Max's eyes flew open. Oh god no! It couldn't be could it? He couldn't possibly be falling in love with Liz could he? Liz was his student for christ sakes! but still, could he simply deny what his heart was yearning for? growing to love? could he live in denial for his feeling for her? Max had no idea how much control he had in him ro resist, and any future lessons with Liz were sure to send him ablaze with sexual frustration that would surely result in a freezing shower on most nights. But if he hypothetically speaking, did date Liz, maybe his heart would stop aching with loneliness, and maybe his soul would feel complete.

Max thumped his pillow and groaned into it in frustration.Why oh why did his life have to get so complicated!


TBC! oh dear, what is Max gonna do? I'm just gonna let him sleep on it for now....if he gets any sleep that is!

[Amber Eyes]

Hey everyone, thanks for the replies, I'd answer to each person, but my computer keeps playing up on me.



Part 4

Liz yawned and stretched as she entered the kitchen the next morning. The smell of fresh coffee greeted her senses.

"Late night?" Maria inquired.

"Hmm....." Liz sat down on a stool and leaned her elbows on the island table top.

"Liz, you ok honey? you kinda look like crap."

"Gee, thanks Maria."

"Coffee?" Maria held up the coffee pot.

"Heaven."

Maria poured Liz a cup, then sat down opposite her.

"So, how did it go with Max last night?"

"It went fine." Liz said, absently staring into her black coffee.

"Are you sure you're ok? did something happen last night?"

Liz remained silent.

"Oh my god! something happened between you and Max, didn't it?! Liz, come on, tell me! this is me ok? Maria, your bestest friend in the whole world. You can talk to me about anything."

Liz sighed, picked up a spoon and stirred her coffee.

"I think I need to find a new dance tutor."

"Why? isn't Max a good teacher?"

"No, it's not that, it's just....it's....well, it's really complicated right now."

Maria lay her hand on Liz's comfortingly. "Liz, tell me what happened."

Liz reaccounted of what had happened between her and Max.

"So why did you let him touch you?"

"I don't know Maria. I..." Liz gave an exasperated sigh "Truth be told, I really like Max, and I am attracted to him....maybe that was why I let him touch me when we were at the club. It was just, like, at that moment, it was as though we were two normal couple out and enjoying ourselves. He wasn't my teacher and I wasn't his student. It was just......us "

"Have you told him how you feel?"

Liz shook her head. "He wouldn't get involved with his students since it would be 'unprofessional'" Liz finger quoted "of him; plus it would probably ruin his reputation if it ever got out. And I would never do anything intentionally selfish that could hurt him."

"Do you love him?"

"Maria! what a question to ask!" Liz said shocked.

Maria just raised an eyebrow at her.

"I like him a lot, yes, but I don't know about love, it's too soon to know."

'We'll see about that!' Maria thought. A loophole of a plan forming in her scheming mind.

"Look Maria, Max is a totally hot guy who can have any woman he wants; he doesn't need to go out with some mouse of a girl who could potentially ruin his career that he worked so hard to build."

"But what if he wanted to go out with this mouse of a girl?"

Liz scoffed a laugh. "Never gonna happen 'Ria. Look, I gave him time to think things over; if he still wants to teach me, then he'll call; if by tomorrow morning I still haven't heard from him, then it's safe to say that I'll be getting cosy with the classified section. Hmm....maybe I'll get an early start on that...."

"Ok, classified adverts aside, what else do you have planned today?"

"Lying in my sweats, junk food and classic Audrey Hepburn movies. Quite a relaxing day actually."

"Nuh-uh. All the stuff you just mentioned fir into the category of 'moping day.'

"Mara, I am not moping! it's what I like to do to relax."

"Yeah, whatever you say chica." Maria replied unconvinced. Maybe in her own unconscious way, Liz was in fact moping over the prospect of losing Max as a teacher and spending quality time with him.

"So, what are your plans for the day?"

"Uh...library? yup! I need to the library!" 'As if! who needs books when you have computers. Ah, the wonders of technology.' Library be damned. what she really was gonna to do was head over to Max's and probably torture him a little.....for fun of course, and then to put her little loophole idea into a convincing effect.

"Library?" Liz looked surprised "'Ria, I thought you damned all books since the internet came on the scene."

"Uh, they have computers at the library."

"We have a computer right here at home."

"Uh...." 'come on, DeLuca! think!' "Uh....ther's this....uh.....really cute guy who works there and--"

"Oh a guy. It takes a cute guy to get you to enter the city library."

"Hey, shut up!"

"Ok, ok." Liz slid off her stool laughing and walked to the sink.

Maria looked at the wall clock "Well, I'd better be off. You have fun with Audrey and junk food!"

"Bye 'Ria."

Maria walked into the hall and pulled on her coat. 'Now then, time to head over to Max's and haul his lazy ass out of bed. If he was still anything like the old Max that she'd known over the years, chances are, he'd still be in bed snoozing like a baby. Well, Maxie bay, time for your wake up call."


TBC!! I've got the next chapter written , but not typed up. You know, while I was writing these chapters, I find them really funny!! It's like the characters have a life of their own, and they play inside my head for me to write. I was cracking up when writing the next chapter!! You'll see

[Amber Eyes]

Ooh! *rubs hands gleefully at all the wonderful feedback!*

Well, since you were being oh so generous.....here's the next part!

Oh, and the cracking up bit is when Liz cracks up on the sofa when she's reminicing. (that part was based on RL from a convesation my aunt shared with us last christmas about what our cousin did.)


Part 5

Max woke up groggily to the sound of thunderous banging. At first he thought he was still in his dreams, dancing on the dance floor with Liz flush up against him and naked, all soft and warm......the banging was from the loud tempo music that echoed from the speakers.....but this banging sounded furious, out of tune and was positively annoying!

Max moaned and threw the cover away from his head, and rolled onto his side to look at the clock - 9am - his face sank back into the pillow and another groan came from him. It should be illegal for people to be up at this hour disturbing the peace; maybe at 1, no, make that 11am to be an acceptable hour to be banging on doors. He'd managed fall asleep around 7am, and what a good 2 hours of sleep he got. He really wished he could go back there.

Max sat up and swung his legs over, when he looked down, he cursed at his arousal wishing him a good morning. Fuck! he really didn't need this right now!

Max rummaged in his closet for a baggy shirt long enough to hide 'little Max'.....or rather, 'not so little Max' from whoever was at the door. As he walked out into the living room, he heard a oh so familiar voice screaming down his door, along with the continuous banging. Hell, he thought he'd gotten used to that over the years. Guess he was wrong.

"MAX! I KNOW YOU'RE IN THERE! YOUR CAR'S STILL PARKED OUTSIDE! GET YOUR LAZY FAT ASS OUT OF BED THIS INSTANT!"

Max swung the door open. Maria had been about to launch into another knocking frenzy, which would have resulted on Max's face if she hadn't seen him on time.

"Oh!"

"Maria, are you crazy?! you're gonna wake up all my neighbours!" he peeked out into the hall to make sure all the doors were still firmly closed.

"Well, I can be their wake up call too." she replied flippantly and waltz into his apartment.

Max rubbed his eyes and closed the door.

"So, what so I owe the pleasure of this wake up call?"

Maria took off her coat, flung it on the back of the couch, then spun on Max, her eyes glowing at him.

"You're in very big trouble mister!"

"I....I am?" Max asked nervously as Maria advanced towards him, hands on hip. 'Uh oh, this can't be good.' He unconsciously took a step backwards.

"Yes, you are." Maria hissed. "You upset Liz, she told me everything"

"Sh...she did?" his back hit the door.

"Yes, she did. And now, I'm going to have to kill you for it, so prepare to meet your doom my clueless friend."

Max quickly dodged to one side, avoiding Maria's outstretched hands, intent on strangulation.

"Maria, please, can't we talk about this? there's no need for physical violence!" Max pleaded.

Maria placed on hand on her hip, raised an eyebrow and tapped her foot impatiently. Oh she was really enjoying this! 'Ok, time to make him squirm some more' Maria thought gleefully.

"So talk. Why did you attack Liz last night? you were suppose to teach her to dance, not paw her to death."

"I didn't attack her! I--"

"Yeah? You what?!"

"Look, all I did was kiss her...." Ok, so he did a little more than kiss her. Groping had been involved, but he couldn't help it! He was so intoxicated with her gyrating against him as she danced, and hey, her hands were groppy too! But then again, he did start it, so..... He really hoped that Liz hadn't mentioned the groping part to Maria, and he sure as hell wasn't going to mention it if she didn't already know about it. She's probably have his head. But.....what if she did know.....

"Oh, so that was all you did, huh?" Maria looked unconvincingly at him.

Max nodded slowly.

Maria advanced towards him. His back hit the back of the couch.

"Don't you lie to me Max Evans. I'm on to you." She punctuated each word with a finger jab to his chest.

"You...I...look, ok, so I did a little more than kiss Liz, and I told her I was sorry and it wouldn't happen again. I never meant to hurt her." he spoke the last part quietly. Guilt riddled him.

'Oh if he only knew.' Maria sighed and pulled Max to sit on the couch beside her. It was time to find out Max's side of things. "So why did you do it?"

"I....I don't know. I'm just so confused right now." He ran a hand through his unkempt hair and sighed leaning back in his seat.

"Do you like her?"

"Yes, she seems like a nice girl."

"Are you attracted to her?"

"Very much so." There was no point in lying to Maria, maybe she could help sort through his feeling.

"Enough to ask her out?"

"Maria, I can't. She's my student, and it would be unprofessional of me to mix business with pleasure."

"Officially or unofficially?"

"Huh?....uh...officially, I guess."


'Mwahahaha, time to put operation loophole into effect!'

"Then there's no problem in asking her out. You do want to ask her out don't you?"

"Yes but--"

"Nuh-uh, no buts. I asked you to teach Liz latino dancing as a favour to me. When I asked you to teach her one on one, you agreed. So in a way, you're in fact teaching her unofficially, not to mention the fact that I'll repay you by a favour rather than money. And the way you keep taking her out to places for your so-called lessons, could be seen as 'dates' even though their suppose to be lessons. Max, none of this is official. If it was, she'd be learning in a room full of people and paying you money per lesson, and only seeing you according to the schedule set for everyone else. Right now, you already set your own schedule with her, which means you get to see her whenever and wherever you want."

Max thought for a moment, then narrowed his eyes at her.

"You set us up didn't you?" he accused.

Maria just grinned at him. "When Liz said she wanted to learn latino dancing, my first thought was of a teacher was you. I know that you were both single, I thought you two would make a cute couple. Look, there's nothing wrong with a friend wanting to see her other friends happy, and from what I've gathered, things seem to be going quite well....uh, sort of."

"You know, you're quite a meddlesome person."

"I only do it because I care, and besides, you'll love me for it." she pinched his cheek affectionately the way a grandma would to a grandson. Suddenly Maria turned serious. "Liz seems to think you won't want to teach her anymore."

"That's crazy! of course I still want to teach her."

"What about your unprofessionalism?" Maria teased.

"It's not official remember? no one's going to know I've been giving private lessons, and besides, you set me up remember?" he grinned at her.

"Look, whatever misunderstandings you and Liz have, you'd better get them sorted, if not, then even I can't stop what's to happen."

"What do you mean?"

"Lets just say that you time limit expires tomorrow morning. If nothing is sorted and cleared up by then, then you're probably gonna lose her as a student. She's so certain that you'll never want to teach her again after what happened last night, she already planning on finding a new teacher."

The thought of Liz in another man's arms (if the teacher turned out to be a man), his hands over her body, getting up close and personal when teaching her the moves, made Max see red with jealousy. He couldn't let that happen.

"Why don't you come over for dinner this evening? you can sort it out with Liz then."

"Sure, what time?"

"Seven would be good, seven thirty at the latest."

"Yeah, that's fine."

Maria got up and pulled on her coat. "Well, I better be going, got lots to do today."


"I'll walk you to the door."

"No need, besides, it looks like 'little Max' is demanding your attention, who probably has been all morning." she said with a sly smile.

"Huh? little Ma...." Max looked down, then at a grinning Maria. His ears and face flushed red with embarrassment.

"See you later Max." Maria said with a giggle as she opened the door and left.

Max made a mad dash for the bathroom and turned on the shower to COLD.


TBC!!

[Amber Eyes]

Ok, So I've been very busy trying to finish writing for some of my older stories that i started nearly a year ago....neded to complete that and give it some closure rather than leave it in limbo any longer.

I've also started another new story called Kiss of death for those of you who don't know already. Go read it, and tell me what you think of it! It's on the AU section of this board


Ok, after this chapter, it might be a while under the next part comes out cos I REALLY have to go back to writing for From Another Time & Place.

Ok, enjoy this for now! I thought this chapter was hilarious to write for!!


Part 6

By 4.00pm, Maria opened the front door with a loud bang, kicked the door shut then dashed into the kitchen before she dropped her 3 bags of groceries.

"Hey 'Ria, how was your day?" Liz asked, entering to help her unpack.

"Good!" Maria replied happily.

"I guess you and cute guy hit it off pretty well huh?"

"Who?"

"You know, the guy at the library who you left so early to see this morning."

"Oh, uh....he wasn't there today; but I did meet this other gorgeous guy in the cafe at lunch."

Liz just laughed. It was just too funny sometimes with Maria and her 'guys' it was like a different one each week!

"Hey, listen Liz, I've invited a friend over for dinner this evening."

"You invited cafe guy to dinner?" Liz asked shocked, the girl had only met this guy a few hours ago and already she was bringing him home for dinner?

"You'll find out who it is around seven" she said with a wink.


After unpacking all the groceries, Maria shooed Liz out the kitchen and told her not to bother her unless it was an emergency, she then closed the door in Liz face and got to work on creating a magical meal. A magical mean it was to be actually edible! Lets face it, Maria wasn't exactly the greatest cook in the world, but hey, she does try!

Back in the living room, Liz cringed at the thought of Maria attempting to cook one of her 'meals.' Even the simplest of recipes could be subject to ruin. Once, Maria had tried to cook scrambled eggs, bacon and toast for her. The toast had turned out fine since it was placed in the toaster and left to its own cooking devices and not Maria's; but the other two however....Liz shook her head as she remembered the result.....the eggs had been too salty, plus she kept crunching on egg shells when she chewed, and the bacon.....Liz buried her face in the cushions in a fit of laughter......Maria had wanted the bacon crispy, instead, she'd over cooked it and it turned kinda charcoal and dry. Liz hadn't wanted to upset her friend when she saw her eager face for her to try out the dish, so she had to endure eating it. Later, she had to spend ages scrubbing her teeth trying to get the black bits of bacon off that was stuck there. These days, Liz did most of the cooking if they weren't going out to eat. Not tonight though. No siree. Tonight, they were all gonna suffer the wrath of Maria's cooking. The friend of Maria wasn't going to know what had hit him, or her.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

At exactly exactly 7pm, the bell chimed at the door.

Liz got up and walked towards the door. She doubted that Maria would have heard it over her cursing and banging of pots and pans.

Liz was surprised to find Max standing there in a dark suit with a dark maroon shirt underneath, his hair was neatly combed and gelled back. He stood there looking like a male model from her dreams, and grinning at her brightly, while offering her the bottle of wine her brought as a dinner gift.

"Max, what are you doing here?"

"Maria invited me over for dinner."

'Oh....so he was the 'friend''

"Come on in." Liz stepped back to let him in. "Have a seat, I'll just let Maria know you're here." Liz walked to the closed kitchen door and knocked. "Maria? Max is here."

Maria opened the door a crack and stuck her head out, the rest of her body covering the kitchen behind her. "Oh good, he brought wine, why don't you go pour yourselves a glass, dinner will be along shortly." With that, she quickly closed the door again before Liz could utter another word.

Liz walked back into the living room, in time to see Max looking at the newspaper she had randomly circled in red. She smiled at him awkwardly as she sat down beside him.

"Um, Maria said dinner will be along shortly. Shall I open the wine while we wait?"

"Sure."

His eyes never left her as she walked over to the wine cabinet and pulled out two wine glasses and a wine opener.

"So you're looking for new dance tutors?"

Liz looked up at him, then returned to her task of pouring the ruby red liquid. "I figured I'd get an early start on it."

"You don't want me to teach you anymore?" Max asked in a hurt tone.

"No, it's not that. Max I don't want you to feel uncomfortable while teaching me, and I know how important your career is to you."

"Liz, I don't wanna stop teaching you. And being with you doesn't make me uncomfortable, in fact, it's the best feeling ever." He got up and walked over to her, placing his hands on her shoulders. "Liz, you don't need another teacher, you already have me. Liz, I don't wanna lose you." Max realized the double meaning of his words. He didn't want to lose her as a student; he loved it that he was the one who was helping her fulfill her dream, and he also wanted to find out where their potential relationship was heading.

Liz looked up at his intent gaze. They seem to be conveying a message to her, his words held a meaning that she daren't hope that it could be what she imagined them to be. Things were just so confusing she could barely see straight.

She handed Max his glass of wine and gave him a small uncertain smile.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Maria was beyond herself in the kitchen. What the hell was she gonna do?! she'd spent the past 2 hours trying to follow the damn recipe, but somehow along the way, it had gone horribly wrong. Burnt food mixed with overdone soppy vegetables lay in the trash, the kitchen was in a state that would rival all the world wars put together.

Maria sat on the floor leaning her back against one of the cabinets; she wiped the back of her hand across her sweaty forehead.

'Maybe it's high time I started taking cookery classes' she mused.

Just then she heard Liz knock and announce that Max had arrived. 'Double Damn.' She couldn't allow her friend to see the mess she'd created, so she opted to open the door a crack and hide the view behind her with her body.

After Liz had left, Maria paced the kitchen, she had wanted a fabulous dinner for her friends, but why the hell did she think [i[she[/i] could pull it off being the chef?!!

Suddenly she looked in the direction of the phone, and an idea pinged in her head.

'No, I couldn't......could I?......' she stood there for a moment. 'Well, desperate times calls for desperate measures.' Picking up the phone she began to dial a set of numbers.

"Yes, and tell the delivery person to come in through the back. Thank you."

Hanging up the phone, Maria surveyed the place; the delivery person wouldn't arrive for another 10-15 minutes, she might as well attempt to clean up while she waited.


TBC!! feedback please!!

[Amber Eyes]

Part 7

A soft tap came from the back door.

'Delivery must be here.'

Quickly, Maria dried her hands and opened the back door. After paying for the food and giving the delivery guy a very generous tip, partly because he was saving her ass and partly because he was cute. They guy left with a wide grin on his face. Maria quickly dished out the main course and arranged them - in what she hoped looked to be professional - on matching plates, then placed the dessert of strawberries dipped in chocolate in the fridge to stop them from melting. Maria emptied the kitchen bin to the larger one outside. She didn't want Liz to find the cartons from the restaurant. Placing the plates of food and silverware on a tray, she carried it out.

"Sorry about the wait guys." She put the tray on the table and placed each plate on a mat opposite each other. "Dinner is served." Turning behind her, she took a box of matches and lit the red taper candle in the center of the table. 'Instant a la atmosphere' she thought giddily. She took the tray back into the kitchen, switching off the overhead light in the living room as she went. After, she went down the hall to look in the mirror. 'No, no. This'll never do.' She took a brush from the small table and ran it through her hair. 'Much better. Can't move onto plan B looking like a wreck.' She grabbed her coat and walked back into the living room. She saw Max and Liz standing by the table, and now looking at her. "It'll get cold if you don't eat it soon. Oh! and I'll be passing on dinner tonight. I've got myself a hot date!"

Liz looked from the food, then at Maria's face. Maria had been up to something. How the hell did she make this perfect meal? and now she has announced that she oh so conveniently won't be joining her and Max for dinner. A 'romantic' dinner no doubt, judging from the lit candle and dimmed lights. And now Maria was making her way over to the CD player and placed one of her mixed CDs in. God! could she be anymore obvious?!

"Ok, later guys! I'll be home very late tonight, if at all." she gave them a wink. "Oh, and dessert is in the fridge." Pulling on her coat, she left her two friends staring after her as she left.

'Well, my part is done. Now it's up to them.' Maria hopped into her sporty BMW and drove off into the night heading for the new club, the 'Crashdown' to meet her date.


Back inside the house, a dazed Max and Liz slowly sat down. After a moment of staring into their food in silence, they bursted out laughing.

"As good as this looks and smells, I doubt that Maria cooked this." Liz said, amused at her friends big heart.

Max looked up at her, his eyes sparkling. "Me neither." Yes, he still remembered Maria's poor excuse for cooking too! She would've needed a miracle to create this, either that or cookery lessons, but judging from Liz's statement, that didn't seem to be the case.

Both took a bite of their steak and a 'Mmm' of appreciation echoed in the room. They continued their general chit chat in somewhat awkward silences in between.

"Phew! I'm stuffed." Max said, wiping his mouth and placing his napkin on his empty plate.

"Me too." Liz replied, sheepishly rubbing her tummy.

"Wanna save dessert for later?"

"Definitely. I couldn't eat another bite right now."

More awkward silence.

"Liz, is something wrong? you've been mostly quiet tonight."

"Nothing's wrong. I'm just a quite person by nature." Liz tried to give him a bright smile, but that lively sparkle never reached her eyes.

"Liz, please tell me what's bothering you. I hate to see you unhappy."

Liz sat back and sighed. She started to fidget with her napkin.

"I just don't know where I stand with you. I'm just really confused right now."

Max leaned forward and placed his hand over hers across the table.

"I like you Liz, I really like you. I was confused with what I wanted at first. I wanted my profession, my job to be separate from my personal life, but it doesn't seem to want to separate itself out when it comes to you. Plus Maria made me see things clearer."

"Clearer how?" Liz felt Max begin to caress her hand with his thumb, a warm tingle spread through her.

"Only that you are an exception when compared to my other students. My methods of teaching you is anything but following normal guidelines. I let my personal feelings for you mix in with my job. I couldn't stay detached from like I do with all my other students. Nothing about our relationship is normal from the start Liz."

"What are you saying Max?"

"What I'm saying is.....I would like to explore our relationship on a personal level, and I would also like to keep on tutoring you. Um, that is....if you agree to all of this of course, cos if you don't, then you don't have to--"

"Max." Liz said leaning forward.

Max stopped rambling and looked at her. He felt heat creep into his cheeks. He always rambled when he was nervous.

Liz regarded him shyly. "So you really like me huh?"

"Yeah, I do. From the first day we met in fact."

It was Liz's turn to blush. "Well, I really like you too. And yes, I would like to see where our potential relationship is heading too. But Max, are you sure you don't mind that and continue to teach me dancing?" Liz fretted again. She had to be sure.

"Liz, I wouldn't have said it if I wasn't sure. Like I said, Maria made me see things clearer."

Liz gave him a warm smile, then got out if her seat. She walked over to the CD player, all the while feeling Max's gaze burn into her back. Choosing another mix CD, she placed it in the stereo and cranked up the volume. Liz offered her hand as a gesture for Max to join her.

As the first beat to Pink's 'You make me sick' began to play, Liz moved her body to the beat. A movement that proved to be totally seductive in Max's eyes. 'This could be a very interesting night' he thought.

Taking off his jacket, he joined her in the spacious living room floor. he placed his hands on her hips and began to move with her - nothing as full on a the club, but equally sparking the heated tension that was building. By the time the song ended, they were comfortable dancing with each other. When the next song started - Donnell Jones' 'U know what's up' - both Max and Liz were dancing in uninhibited movements. Max had his hands around Liz's waist, her body moved fluidly and un-shyly under his touch. Liz turned her back to him and closed her eyes focusing on the beat of the music and letting it guide her body movements. Max had pulled her closer to him, his arms wrapped around her. Their hips mingled and moved together; her full backside gyrating against his hard erection. They were lost in the music, lost to the sensations of each others touch, lost in their own world. Liz turned back around to face Max, her arms now around his neck, his own were still wrapped around her small frame, keeping her against him.

"Max." Her voice was husky with desire.

"Liz." He managed out hoarsely.

They both knew what their bodies wanted, but in their minds, they knew it was too soon at this barely beginning stage of their relationship. But it was so hard to resist........

Their lips met in a heated kiss, hands tangled in hair, roamed over heated bodies, but it wasn't enough. Max's lips moved from her lips, over her jaw, down her neck, then behind her ear where he nipped and licked a sensitive spot.

"Max!" Liz gasped.

Max moved back to her mouth where he claimed it as his own. It tasted so sweet, as sweet as dessert, and they haven't even gotten to that part of the meal yet. Max couldn't get enough as he devoured her sweet mouth.

Slowly, he manoeuvred them till she fell back against the couch cushions with him on top of her; never once did they break contact as they lay horizontal together. Unconsciously, Max's hips began to grind into her for relief, it brought very little. Instead, it just fed his fire. Liz wasn't that much better off either, and feeling his desire for her pressed against her nearly undid her. Her hands slipped under his shirt and smoothed over his strong manly muscles. All that dancing had toned his body well. He felt so good under her touch, she so wanted his naked hard body in contact with her own soft yielding one.

"Max..." Her voice came out in a breathless whisper. "Please...I can't....take this...anymore.."

"Me neither..."

His hands slipped under her top to feel the silky soft skin hidden. He moved it higher, up her ribcage, his fingers skimmed the bottom swell of her breast. Max ached to take them into his mouth. Her top moved higher, he would soon be able to taste her like he wanted to do badly. Higher he moved her cotton top up.....

Beep Beep. Beep Beep.

It took a while to acknowledge the sound. Both looked up in puzzlement. The beeping ring came from Max's jacket. His cell phone.

Max sighed into Liz's neck, her wanted to damn the thing to a scrap heap, yet at the same time, he was greatful for the interruption. Things were heating up way too fast for him and Liz. Damn those hormones! Sitting up, he reached for the phone.

"Hello?" Max answered as he watched Liz readjust her top.

"Max?"

"Yeah."

"Hey big brother, it's Serena."

Days like this, he didn't know whether it was a good thing to have siblings.

"Hey Rena, what's up?"

"I'll be in the city this weekend, can you pick me up at the airport?"

"Sure, what time do you land?"

Serena gave the details then opted for some chit chat before she hung up.

"You know, Izzy's mad at you for missing the wedding Rena."

"I know, but it couldn't be helped. Who knew that those stupid people would decide to go on strike at the last minute stranding us all. Look, I'll make it up to Izzy, she can't be mad at me forever, right?"

"Hey, I'm leaving that between you too."

"Thanks for the support bro, I thought you were on my side."

"I'm second in line remember? I'm suppose to keep things neutral in situations like this." Max took another glance at Liz. "Listen, I gotta go, I'll see you this weekend, k?"

"Sure. Love you bro."

"Love you too Rena."

Max hung up, then turned his attention to Liz.

"That was my sister."

Liz merely nodded.

"She's in town this weekend and needs me to pick her up."

Again she nodded without saying a word.

Reaching over, he caressed her cheek. "I enjoyed tonight."

"Me too." she gave him a shy smile. Yup. Shy Liz was taking center stage now.

"You know, it's getting late, I should be going."

Getting up, Liz walked Max to the door.

"Have lunch with me tomorrow, then we can have a lesson in the evening."

"Ok." Liz said looking up at him with big doe eyes.

Lifting her chin up, Max planted a soft kiss on her lips. "I'll pick you up at twelve. Good night Liz."

"Good night Max."

After Max left, Liz walked to her room in a daze. A daze that left a smile on her well kissed lips. She had a lunch date with Max tomorrow!

Tonight she would sleep pleasantly with Max filled dreams until tomorrow came.



TBC!

[Amber Eyes]

Hi everyone!

happy to see me? my tooth hurts less now, which is a good thing. I've recently been down to London for my cousins wedding which is why I haven'yt had a chance to update yet. Then I had to sort out my 2nd year uni stuff, and had to attend lectures etc. Ah well, here I am now.


Check out this wonderul banner that roswelllover made for me!!


Part 8

Liz and Max walked into a cozy little diner known as Mama Dina's. It was one of those small places tucked away behind all those busier places. But those were always the best places to go, it was more cosy in atmosphere and most of the time, you'd get great food and excellent service.

Max lead Liz to a table booth by the window. A young waitress with dark brown hair sporting red streaks came and gave them menus and took their drink orders. Before walking away, she gave Max a wink. "Be right back with your order." Max just grinned at her and told her to take her time.

Liz felt a twang in her heart, but pushed it aside. Max was a gorgeous guy, it would make sense that he'd get attention from other women. Most likely lots of women. Instead of contemplating it anymore, Liz opened her menu and looked down to browse through the choices.

A few minutes later, the waitress came back with their drinks.

"So what will it be?" she looked at Liz.

"Um, I'll have a.....jacket potato with coleslaw and a side salad."

The waitress scribbled in her little notepad, then turned to Max. "The usual sweetie? or would you like something different on the menu?"

"The usual would be fine Genie, and remember--"

"Extra fries with the burger." Genie finished for him.

"Ah, you're too good to me." Max replied by placing his palm over his chest.

Genie beamed at him and sauntered off, hips swaying and all.

Liz arched her eyebrows at Max.

"You come here a lot?"

"Yeah, they have the best food in town." Max scratched behind his ear sheepishly.

"I'll bet. I didn't even know this place existed."

"The best places are usually the ones few people have the luxury of knowing about."

Liz looked around. "But this place is packed."

"All the ones who have the luck of knowing this place exists." Max said with a sexy grin that nearly melted Liz in her seat.

Genie came back with their order, asked if they needed anything else then sauntered off to serve the other customers.

Liz took a bite of her baked potato with the coleslaw and closed her eyes in ecstasy.

"Mmm...my god! this tastes sooo good!" Liz opened her eyes and regarded Max, who had this really funny look on his face, plus he seemed to be frozen in time gaping at her. "You were'nt kidding about the food! I should definitely come here more often." Liz dug into her food appreciatively until she realized that Max had yet to touch his food. He was still staring at her. There was something about his eyes she couldn't put a name to of the way he was looking at her. "You should eat before your food get cold." Liz said softly.

'Eat? eat?! the only thing I want to eat right now is you! but being in a public place and all didn't seem like a good idea. But the thought was it was a huge turn on just the same. I think right about the time I saw Liz take a bite of her food and closed her eyes moaning with enjoyment pretty much made my body go into a spin and my mind wandering into places it shouldn't, especially not over lunch anyway. But she made it hard not to. Does she even know what she's doing to me so effortlessly? probably not. You know, I don't think I'll ever view a baked potato with coleslaw in the same way again; if I ever come across it, the image of Liz closing her eyes and moaning will be forever burned into my mind. Uh ok, now she's looking at me kinda funny. I stop staring at her and take a bite from my burger. Seriously though, what is the magic ingredient in the food? no food can taste that good can it? The food in this place is a lot like having good sex; and the look on Liz's face before, I wouldn't be surprised if the two got mixed up in this place.'

"So what do you do Liz?"

"Well, I run this small book shop not far from where I live down Elliot Street? It's called Another World. Me and my grandma Claudia came up with that cos we loved to read, and its like we enter this whole new realm, this whole new world when we open a book. So we came up with Another World. Fitting don't you think?"

"A very good imagination you and your grandma have there."

A sad look passed over Liz's face.

"Grandma passed away last year."

Silence.

"Liz, I'm so sorry."

Liz took in a deep breath and sighed.

"That's life. But running the store is like having her with me constantly."

"Is it hard running it on your own?"

"I don't run it on my own. Maria helps me with it when I need her to, and we also have an assistant to help out."

The rest of Max and Liz's lunch hour breezed by all to soon. They were reluctant to depart from each other, but Max had some errands to run and Liz had to check up on the store, so they said their goodbyes by sharing a tender kiss and a hug.

"I'll see you later this evening."

"I'll be waiting."


TBC!! feedback please!!

[Amber Eyes]

Part 9

Later that evening after the movies

Max unlocked the door to his apartment and pushed it for Liz to enter first. Max followed behind, and switched on the lights as he closed the door.

Liz looked around appreciatively. "Nice place you got here." It looked like your regular bachalor pad, but it had a hint of coziness feel to it.

"Would you like a tour of Cassa de Max?"

Liz giggled at the reference. "I'd love to."


After the tour, Max and Liz found themselves in the living area again.

"Um, would you like a drink?"

"Actually, I'd like to get started on the next lesson if you don't mind. I'd like to make some progress on it."

"Sure, that's fine. We'll use the space behind the couch as there's loads of room there."

Liz stood behind the couch and waited while Max placed a CD into the stereo. A funky Latin/Spanish style music began to play.

Max turned around and gave her an irresistible grin, as he took off his jacket and rolled up his shirt sleeve as he walked towards her.

"Ok, lesson 3. Lets see if the previous lessons have paid off."

Max showed her some basic steps and counts to start off before moving on to more complex steps. Liz was a fast learner; once she got the rhythm of the moves, she became a natural and moved her body fluidly with the beat of the music. She wasn't shy or felt any awkwardness, au contraire, she felt exhilarated that she as actually latino dancing, it was as if she could feel the music flow through her and her emotions displayed in her movements.

Max was amazed at how fast Liz picked up the moves and steps, she was clearly a gifted dancer, and he was glad to have her as a partner.

They danced to more new moves, and were soon improvising. Their bodies moving in sync to one another, anticipating each other's movements for twists, turns, twirls and dips.

The CD came to an end.

Both Max and Liz stood there panting as they gazed at one another. There was a connection between them, it as felt through their dancing; when they were near one another; it was strong and undeniable.

Max smiled lovingly at her. "You're an amazing dancer."

Liz blushed. "Thank you. I had a good teacher."

"It doesn't matter how I teach you; to be a good dancer you have to feel the music and let your body become it in the dance. You're clearly a natural. Your movements flow, and you even know how to improvise now."

"I guess the previous lessons have paid off." Liz chuckled.

Unable to control himself any longer, Max bent his head and captured her mouth in a searing kiss.

Only when they were forced to come up for air did they break apart.

Liz's vision landed on the wall clock. they had been dancing non-stop for 3 hours. Hey, who knew time could fly so fast when one was having fun.

"Hmm....I should go, it's late."


After dropping Liz off at hers, Max kissed her goodnight and said he'd give her a call.


Liz walked up the stairs in a daze. Wow! what a night! Her dream was finally coming true, and Max was her fairy godfather helping her make it happen.

Closing the door to her room, she floated over to her bed and lay in the center staring up at the ceiling, which was covered in glow in the dark stars. A goofy smile intent on staying plastered itself on her face.

Max.

Contented sigh.

Seems she'd gotten more than her dream. She still couldn't believe that a gorgeous looking guy like Max was really interested in her. Her. Plain Liz Parker! It just seems roo good to be true; like she was in a dream and it would all disappear when she wok up. Either that or something bad will make it go away.

Liz pinched herself. Ow! Nope no dream.

Liz continued to stare up at the ceiling thinking about Max, when a thought occurred to her.

"My god, I'm falling for Max Evans."


TBC! I haven't finished writiing for part 10 yet, but hopefully my muse will stay with this fic for a while.

[Amber Eyes]

Hi everyone!

I really should do individual feedback, but I'm just lazy right now! lol So I'll just do a group one. Welcome to ALL the new readers! hope yor're enjoying this story, despite the lack of updates on occasions.

Hmm, as for my other stories, well, the next chapters aren't finished yet. I don't really have time at the mo cos of uni work. Grr, stupid deadlines coming up. I was shocked to discover the deadline was a week on friday and for some reason I thought it would be the week after that. So now, i've got a week short! damn.

Anyway, here's the next part hope you like!


Part 10

"Hey sis, how was your flight?" Max asked as he greeted his sister Serena in a brotherly hug.

"Cramped. I hate flying economy class, but it was so worth it since I got to sit next to this hunk of a guy!"

Max rolled his eyes. "What happened to David? I thought you said he was, and I quote 'the one'"

Serena waved it off. "Pfft. David Schmaebid. He's history. Caught the bastard making out with another girl on our couch. He thought I was coming home late."

Just then Max noticed the brunette standing next to his sister, and raised his eyebrows in question.

"Oh! How rude of me. Max, this is my friend Satori. Satori, this is my big bro Max. Satori will be staying with me for 2 weeks before going back to Chicago."

"Hi nice to meet you." They greeted and shook hands.

Satori reminded Max of Liz. Hmm, maybe it was her long chocolate brown hair. But then again, every time he switched on MTV and some female singer with long brown hair came on, it would have his thoughts running to Liz.

Boy did he have it bad!

Speaking of hair.....

"I see you've changed your hair again."

"Yup. I hear mahogany red is the new colour this season." Serena fluffed her newly dyed and highlighted bob.

"It suits you. Better than blonde I must say."

"I know! What was I thinking?! Oh yeah, that's right, David said I'd look good as a blonde."

"So where are you's staying?"

"Devonshire hotel."

"You know, I still don't understand why you don't want to stay at mine, its not like I don't have the room."

Serena gave him a pointed look. "Us? stay at that bachelor pad of yours? uh-uh, no way; who knows what shocks and surprises we'll get in the mornings." Serena teased.

Serena knew Max hardly ever dated, so for the morning after guest surprises were pretty much nil. The only surprises would probably be accidentally walking in on him peeing with the door open or something. Which is something a sister really didn't need to witness.

"Serena....." Max said in a chastising voice.

"Ok, ok. Sorry, couldn't help it. Look Max, I really don't feel like living with any men right now, family or otherwise."

"I understand."

They loaded their luggage's into Max's car then drove off.

"Hey Max, can we stop at Mackies? I'm dying for a Big Mack, large order of fries and a nice cold fizzy drink"

Max laughed. His sister, both his sisters loved McDonalds, you'd think they would stay away considering how it's fast food and fattening. But they didn't seem to care. Nothing can get in the away of them and the food they love. He used to tease them mercilessly about their weight - which in truth absolutely fine - he just like to mess with their heads a little, with comments like 'My god Rena! is that a Big Mack on your hips?' and 'Hey, did you gain weight?' or 'That dress seems a bit tight on you'

"Sure, um are you sure that's what you want? you know cos its a BIG mack, it'll go straight to your stomach -- Ow!"

"Max, do you never tire of the constant teasing?" Serena said rolling her eyes.

"Nah, just doing my brotherly duties." he said smugly.

"Hey, Satori, Max is gay you know."

The car jerked forward.

"Rena! I am not gay!!" he turned his head back to Satori, who looked back at him wide eyed. All the good ones were always taken or were gay. "Don't listen to her, its not true." he said defensively.

"Oh no? When's the last time I saw you go on a date with someone? someone female? Never!" Serena threw up her hands in exasperation. "Seriously Max, it's ok to be gay, why don't you just admit it."

"I'm not gay, and I do prefer women to men." His thoughts drifted back to the dates he'd spent with Liz. Ah, Liz.....

He did a double take when he realized his sister was peering at him up close.

"Why do you have a goofy grin on your face?"

Max sobered up. "What goofy grin?" he asked innocently.

"Max, are you seeing someone? You have to tell me! If you are, then it's a miracle!"

Should he tell her about Liz? he pondered.

"Rena, it's not that big a deal."

"Oh my god! Is it a he or a she?" she asked wiggling her eyebrows up and down.

"Of course it's a she."

"What's her name?"

"Um, Elizabeth Parker." There was no use lying to Serena, she'd find out sooner or later, and she'd have his hide if she found out he'd lied to her. Might as well come out with the truth.

"Can I meet her?"

Max thought for a moment.

"I'll check with Liz, if it's ok we can all have dinner at mine and I'll ask Michael to come too."

"Say, what's Mikey up to these days?"

"he owns his own club."

"This I've got to see."


TBC! Well? how was that?