Roswell Fanatics

Winner Round 4


Winner Round 2



Winner Round 1



Firsts is followed by its sequel, Full Circle, and finally by the tag, Silkening.
hugs, Tas

Firsts
by Tasyfa

Disclaimer: The characters of Roswell are the property of Twentieth Century Fox Television and Regency Productions. All original characters and concepts are the property of the author. No profit has been made from the distribution of this work of fiction.
Category: Max/Liz/Michael; includes slash.
Rating: Adult
Summary: Spoilers to VLV. After their trip to Vegas, Max and Liz got back together and Michael and Maria broke up. Alex/Isabel and Kyle/Tess are also together.
One unseasonably warm late spring night, Max and Michael discover that their feelings run deeper after all.
Author's E-mail: tasyfa@yahoo.com


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

Chapter 1

Isabel was having another girls' night at the Evans house. After greeting Liz with a lingering kiss Max escaped the estrogen fest in the Jeep, heading for Michael's.

"Hey, Max. I take it they arrived?" Michael glanced up as the front door opened. His eyes quickly returned to the hockey game in progress.

"Yeah. Not exactly how I'd pictured Liz being in my house while my parents were away," he replied wryly.

"Thinking more horizontally, without all of the company?" Michael offered sympathetically. Max grabbed a soda from the fridge, dropped his backpack on the floor beside the couch and he sat down. He held the cold can to his forehead before popping it open.

"Yeah. I was kind of hoping we'd—you know," Max confessed. Michael raised his eyebrows.

"Really. You're that close to doing the deed?"

Max reddened and replied in a low voice, "Yeah." He took a swig of his soda then placed it on the coffee table.

"So…does Liz give good head?" Michael asked mischievously. Max leaned back, closing his eyes as he remembered that afternoon.

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

Liz dragged Max into the eraser room at the beginning of their lunch period. As soon as the door was locked she launched herself into his arms, fastening her mouth on his.

Max staggered back as he caught her, his hands cupping her buttocks to hold her against him. He opened his mouth under Liz's onslaught and her tongue snaked inside.

Max slid his hands up Liz's body to knead her breasts. He trailed hot kisses down her neck then suddenly bent her back, lifting her sweater to close his mouth over her nipple. Liz gasped as the sensation zinged through her. He alternated between her nipples, sucking and lightly biting.

Her feet were back on the floor now, and Max unzipped her pants. He slipped his hand inside her panties, finding her as wet as he had expected. Max rammed two fingers into her, feeling her shudder as he began to stroke her rhythmically.

Liz was letting out faint moans, helpless to stay completely quiet. Max pulled her head back up to cover her mouth with his, swallowing her sounds as Liz rode his hand. His thumb pressed against her clitoris in excruciatingly exact circles, and he felt her inner muscles clench around his fingers as her orgasm ripped through her.

When she had stopped shaking, Max withdrew his hand and licked his fingers clean. Liz smiled, looking up at him through a veil of dark lashes. The next thing he knew, she was on her knees in front of him with his cock in her mouth.

Max tangled his hands in Liz's hair, fighting to keep from pushing her head as he avidly watched her lips slide up and down the length of his cock, gaining a little more ground each time. He knew she could not quite take all of him—they were still pretty new at this—but he didn't care, it felt so damn good.

Max could feel the tightening in his balls that meant he was getting close. Liz knew it too, and decided to try something. She put one hand through his legs and gently slid her finger down the cleft of his ass to its puckered entrance, pausing there.

Max felt her lightly tracing circles and it pushed him over the edge. He exploded into her throat, biting his lip to hold in his moans. Liz swallowed rapidly, gulping down every drop. Only when he was completely spent did her warm mouth withdraw.

They shared a kiss, tasting themselves on each other's lips, then rearranged their clothing and headed for the cafeteria.

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

"Amazing," Max finally replied. Michael was amused as he noticed Max's clenched jaw, and the sudden tent effect in his black Bermuda shorts.


"You know, you didn't need to relive it to answer the question," he snickered. Max turned even redder and punched his arm.


"Sorry. It was just this afternoon," he smirked. Michael punched him back, grinning. All this talk of Max getting blowjobs combined with his friend's obvious hard-on was making Michael feel a little strange.


"Yeah, yeah, rub it in, now that I'm single. Mind if I take my shirt off?"


"It's your place, do what you want. I'm going to. It's too damn hot for April. What happened to your fan?" Max asked as he peeled off his black T-shirt.

"I haven't gotten around to fixing it yet. There's still the one in the bedroom, but it's not portable, so it doesn't do us much good out here. Too bad you couldn't stay in your air-conditioned house," Michael answered as he removed his own T-shirt.

"When did you start working out, Michael? You look great! I guess I haven't seen you without a shirt for a while since we don't have P. E. together this semester."

"I've been at it for a few months now. I picked up one of those bars, like the one you've got, but I hardly use it because I'm not sure I'm doing the pull-ups the right way," Michael said self-consciously.

"Put it up and I'll show you," Max offered enthusiastically. Michael groaned inwardly. He should have known better than to say anything. He'd known that Max would insist not only on demonstrating, but also on spotting while Michael worked out too, even in this heat. A tiny voice whispered, 'But you want him to be proud of you, don't you? He's the reason you got into shape in the first place, because you're supposed to be a warrior, and warriors aren't flabby.'

"Yeah, all right," he agreed aloud. He went to get the bar from the closet, fitting it into the holders that were screwed into the doorframe of his bedroom.

Max stood up, draining the last of his soda. He tossed the can in the recycling bin under the sink and did some stretches before joining Michael.

"Got it up? Good," Max approved. Michael choked back a laugh. He didn't know the half of it! Michael wasn't sure if it was the ridiculously early summer heat or what, but Max's proximity was making his head spin and his blood rush tonight—and a good deal of it was rushing there.

Max stepped into the doorway and wrapped his hands around the bar. "Just watch me, Michael. And do some stretches, too; you don't want to be sore tomorrow," he advised. He lifted his feet and began his first set of pull-ups.

Michael watched in fascination as the muscles in Max's arms and chest rippled with each up and down motion. He completed his first set, rested for a moment, then started another. Michael stretched while continuing to watch Max. There was the sheen of sweat on his torso now, which only served to emphasize his incredible definition.

Wonder how salty he would taste? Michael's mind wandered. He jerked it back into reality. What the fuck is wrong with me? Max is my best friend. I am not gay; I enjoyed making out with Maria way too much to be gay. And Max belongs to Liz anyway.

'But he loved you first,' the little voice told him. Michael shrugged. While that was true, it was also irrelevant. He'd never had these—urges—towards any other guy, and he would bet that Max had never had them at all. Especially not with Liz's apparently magic mouth. He felt himself harden even more as he conceived a mental image of Liz going down on Max. Michael shook his head, trying to concentrate; Max had finished and was putting his feet back on the floor. Michael passed him a small towel and a cold Cherry Coke.

"Thanks, Michael," he said, wiping his face with the towel before opening the soda and gulping some down. "Your turn."

Hesitantly, Michael wrapped his hands around the bar and started. Max's voice interrupted.

"You were right; you're doing it the wrong way. Here, turn around and I'll place you properly," Max instructed. Feeling lightheaded, Michael complied, ducking under the bar and turning his back towards Max.

Max came up behind him and took his hands, positioning them on the bar. As he bent to demonstrate how to lift his legs, Max lost his balance and grabbed the bar to catch himself. He collided with Michael's back, the entire front of him pressed against Michael.

They both felt an electric shock travel through their bodies from the abrupt contact. He had been quiescent, but Max grew rock hard again, and he knew damn well that Michael would be able to feel the change since his groin was pressed against his best friend's ass.

"Sorry," Max apologized, his voice sounding strained. "Lost my balance. So, here's how you lift your feet." He knelt this time, grasping Michael's bare foot and showing him what to do. Michael nodded and lifted his other foot, then began his set of pull-ups.

Max stood back up and moved off a bit, wondering what the hell was wrong with him. Was his frustrated desire for Liz spilling onto the first body he came into physical contact with? He watched the newly developed muscles in Michael's back flex. Max's eyes drifted lower, admiring the firm curve of his ass in the cut-off jean shorts. The frayed bottoms highlighted the muscles in his thighs. Max shook his head violently.

Michael is my best friend! I know I'm straight, so why am I looking at him like that? Why do I want to run my hands over his skin, feel how his body is different from mine? Why am I thinking about what it would be like to… Max turned off his internal monologue savagely. His knees felt weak, and when he spoke his voice was husky.

"I think that's enough for tonight, Michael. You don't want to overdo it."

Michael lowered his feet and stood up. He left the bar in place and grabbed the towel Max had used, running it over his face and neck. It smelled like Max, spicy and musky with an odd hint of sweetness. The scent ignited another rush of desire and Michael fought the urge to moan.

It must be this fucking heat wave. The last one we had was when I got together with Maria, which was almost as insane as this is, he thought to himself.

Max had retreated to the couch, where he was staring at the TV and sipping his Cherry Coke. Michael decided to give them both a break.

"Hey, I'm going to have a quick shower and then hit the sack. I'm beat," he declared. Max nodded, his attention seemingly fixed on the hockey game. Michael gulped down some orange juice from the carton in the fridge then headed for the bathroom.

Used to living alone, he neglected to close the door all the way. Max heard the water start, and Michael singing incoherently. Eventually the singing stopped. A few moments later, Max could hear soft, rhythmic grunts. It dawned on him that Michael was literally taking things into his own hands in the shower.

Max swallowed at the image his recalcitrant mind painted of Michael standing in the stream of hot water, steam rising around him as he worked his cock with his own hand. Would he make the same noises if… Max groaned and decided that by the time Michael got out of the shower, he was going to at least look like he was asleep.

Max arranged himself comfortably on the couch, pulling off his shorts so he was just wearing boxers. Obviously he had no need of blankets, so he just settled into the pillow. The only part of him that was still uncomfortable was the insistent throbbing between his legs. He sighed. Later, after Michael's asleep, he told himself. With that promise, he relaxed enough to fall asleep.

Michael emerged from the bathroom still damp, with a towel wrapped around his waist. He was about to say something when he realized that Max was asleep. Max usually slept on his stomach, but it was all too obvious to Michael why he wasn't now, with the way his boxers were standing out from his body.

He took advantage of the opportunity to look at Max. His arms were flung over his head, emphasizing his chest muscles as he breathed. One leg was bent, leaning against the back of the couch. His head was turned to one side. Michael marveled at how long his eyelashes were; he had never noticed them before. Max's face looked beautiful as he slept. So innocent.

Michael's gaze traveled hungrily down Max's body. The pose was driving him nuts. Max was lying openly, trustingly. He focused on one chestnut-colored nipple, wondering how Max's skin would taste, how different it would be from Maria's soft breasts. He let out a strangled whimper and fled into his bedroom, flinging himself on the bed. What is going on with me? Max is not only my best friend, he's a guy! Just stop it already, he told himself.

But the image of Max, so open and vulnerable, so available, would not go away. Michael punched his pillow a few times and finally relaxed enough to drift off to sleep, his new fantasies about Max following him into dreamland.

Max woke slowly sometime in the middle of the night, disoriented for a moment by the oppressive heat. He opened his eyes and it all came flooding back to him. He was at Michael's and he still had a raging hard-on because he had been thinking about getting it on with his best— male—friend. Right.

Max staggered to the bathroom to relieve himself. On the way back he could not resist peering into Michael's room. His breath caught in his throat at what he saw.

Michael was curled on his side, facing away from Max. He had been in such haste to get to bed that he had still been wearing just the towel from his shower, which had long since unwrapped itself. Max's eyes roamed Michael's body, noting all the new muscles. His eyes lingered on his firm buttocks. Liz had such a cute little ass. Michael's was more substantial. He wondered if Michael would like what Liz had done to him yesterday.

With a muffled gasp, Max pulled his mind away from those images and practically ran back to the couch. His groin was aching now and he recalled his earlier promise to himself. Now seems like a good time, he thought as he pulled his boxers off, dropping them on the floor. Max closed his eyes as he began to stroke himself. He didn't want it to be over too fast; he was too worked up for that to give him any real satisfaction. So he started very slowly, just dragging his fingers along his velvet skin, and gradually progressed from there.

Muffled or not, Max's gasp had been enough to wake Michael from his restless sleep. He was not quite sure what he had heard, but he was wickedly thirsty. He stood up, realizing that he had basically gone to bed nude but figuring that it wouldn't matter, Max was out like a light. He stretched, catlike, then padded out to the kitchen, still naked.

Michael had his hand on the fridge door handle when he froze at the sound of a soft moan from the couch. Silently Michael walked over, to be greeted by the sight of a gloriously nude Max.

The moonlight streaming in the window where part of the sheet had fallen down outlined Max's body in silver. His eyes were closed, his mouth open as he panted for breath. One hand was over his head still, clutching at the pillow; the other had a firm grip on his cock.

Driven beyond endurance, Michael dropped to his knees in front of his best friend. He was desperately afraid: of being rejected, of what this would do to their friendship; of what it meant about himself. But he could not stop the words that came tumbling out of his mouth.

"Max. Let me," Michael offered hoarsely. Max opened his eyes to find his best friend staring at the tip of his cock, which sparkled with the first drops of pre-come. Max swallowed at the hunger he saw in Michael's face. So he wasn't the only one that had been affected, that was having inappropriate thoughts.

"Michael," he groaned, intending to tell him no. But Max's body had other ideas. He sat up and spread his legs. Michael moved in between them and met Max's eyes. They had been able to read each other for so long; they were so close. Both knew that this would change everything for good. But they also knew that both of them wanted it.

Michael broke their eye contact and bent his head to Max's groin. His tongue flickered out, catching that bit of pre-come. It tasted salty-sweet, with the added spice of Max's sweat. Carefully Michael slid his lips down Max's cock, drawing it into his mouth. Max closed his eyes and clenched his fists at his sides when Michael's lips touched the base of his erection. He held himself perfectly still, just like he did for Liz, as Michael began to suck.

Michael knew that Max had gotten himself pretty close. He was a little amused by his absolute lack of movement. He withdrew his mouth.

"Max. Look at me," Michael ordered softly. Max's eyes drifted open, his long eyelashes partially veiling his gaze. He was so damn sexy!

"First thing is, I want you to watch," Michael continued, smugly watching the desire flare in Max's amber gaze. "Second thing is, Max, you know damn well I've got a big mouth. I can take it. Just," Michael ran his tongue around the head of Max's cock, "Just let go."

Max gasped as he watched Michael take his entire cock into his mouth and start sucking. He held still for a few more moments, until the exquisite sensations from Michael's increasing pace snapped Max's control. His fists unclenched and he gripped Michael's hair as he began to thrust into his mouth, feeling the tip of his cock slap against the back of Michael's throat.

Michael sucked for all he was worth. Max felt and tasted so incredible. Somehow he had known that deep-throating him would drive him insane. He felt a rush of satisfaction that he had dissolved Max's self-control, and gloried in having Max's hands in his hair, pushing him deeper.

Max was almost there when Michael reached down and caressed the sensitive skin right behind his balls. He stiffened as his orgasm flashed through him, shooting right down Michael's throat. He cried out, "Michael! Oh, God, Michael."

Michael continued to suck, gently now, until Max's body had nothing left to give. Only then did he reluctantly allow his limp cock to slide from his mouth. Michael looked up at Max with an arrogant smile.

Max met his eyes, blushing a little as he registered the smile. He placed one hand on either side of Michael's face, giving him lots of time to pull away, and leaned forward.

Michael closed his eyes as Max's lips met his in a gentle kiss. It felt strange; his mouth was so different from Maria's generous lips. But Michael opened his mouth to the gentle insistence of Max's tongue.

Max swirled his tongue against Michael's, then explored his mouth, deepening the kiss. Carefully Max slid off the couch to kneel with Michael, their chests pressed together as they continued to kiss.

Michael's head was swimming under the onslaught of Max's tongue. The thought flashed through his mind that he must thank Liz for teaching him to kiss like this. He stiffened momentarily, then Max's hands began to roam and Michael pushed away all thoughts of Liz and everyone else.

Max was feeling dizzy and feverish. Michael tasted like orange juice and Tabasco, a heady combination to a hybrid. He suddenly decided to find out how the rest of him tasted. His mouth left Michael's to press wet kisses down his neck. He sucked on Michael's neck, branding him, before bending to lick at his nipples.

Michael was wobbly even on his knees now. "Max!" he hissed. "I'm gonna fall over!" Max chuckled against his chest, and Michael felt a shock of desire run through him at the delicious sound.

"Lie back on the couch, then, Michael," he invited, moving out of the way. Michael swallowed and took the suggestion. Max stretched out beside him, his free hand idly rubbing Michael's nipples. He licked Michael's ear lobe, sucking on it as his hand wandered Michael's torso and thighs, carefully avoiding his groin.

Michael moaned. Max's teasing after his earlier abandon was driving him crazy. He moaned again as Max bit his throat.

"Maxwell, when did you turn into such an asshole?" he panted. Max laughed.

"You'd be surprised how much you can learn in bed when you're not actually having sex. I adore teasing Liz. I love watching her fall to pieces at my touch," Max gloated. Michael felt a pang of guilt and Max saw it in his eyes.

"Don't, Michael. It'll be OK. Don't worry," he whispered, bringing his mouth back to Michael's for a deep kiss. Their tongues dueled for dominance; as always, Max won. He drew back and smiled wickedly.

"I knew how to give a great handjob long before Liz entered the picture," he breathed as his wandering hand finally closed around Michael's hard cock. Max explored it with gentle fingers, learning its contours as he kissed Michael again.

Michael was drowning in sensation, trying to breathe as Max's lips moved down his chest. Max licked each nipple, flicking his tongue at the hardening tips, and then sucked one into his mouth. His hand stopped the freeform stroking and formed a tight ring around Michael's cock. Max began to move his hand up and down, settling into a fast rhythm. Michael closed his eyes as his hips automatically helped, thrusting his cock through Max's tight grip.

Max suddenly bit Michael's nipple and he jumped, pleasure mingling with the slight pain. Michael was breathing in ragged gasps now as Max transferred his attention to the other nipple, licking and biting. Helplessly Michael threaded his fingers in Max's hair. At last Max kissed him again.

"I know you're close, Michael," Max whispered against his lips, his hazel eyes burning into Michael's brown ones. "Let go; I want to feel you come all over me." He nibbled on Michael's bottom lip, never moving his gaze. The fierce determination and desire there combined with his hard stroking to send Michael spiraling out of control.

"Max!" he cried out as he spurted onto Max's stomach and chest. Max grunted as the hot liquid splashed onto his skin and recaptured Michael's lips for a gentle kiss. He continued to stroke until Michael's cock was quiescent. He smiled at Michael.

"Mission accomplished," Max stated, his eyes sparkling. Michael laughed shakily, trying to catch his breath.

"You'd better go shower," he replied, smiling broadly at the sight of Max's torso. Max looked down at himself.

"Like that, do you? Seeing me marked as your territory?" Max asked huskily. Michael swallowed and nodded. Max pressed his lips against Michael's, forcing his mouth open and thrusting his tongue inside. Almost immediately he withdrew, and flashed Michael a brilliant smile as he stood up.

"I'll just be a few minutes," Max called over his shoulder as he made his way to the bathroom for a quick shower.

Michael discovered that he was capable of movement after all, and went to his room for a pair of boxers. He dropped Max's on the bathroom floor on the way back; Max hadn't bothered to close the door even a token amount. Michael paused for a moment, admiring Max's silhouette against the shower curtain.

Max smiled to himself, knowing that Michael was watching him. He deliberately moved in a provocative manner, keeping Michael's eyes glued to him as he slowly washed himself.

Michael finally quit his staring and went into the kitchen, snapping on the light as he grabbed the carton of orange juice from the fridge. He was about to drink from it when it occurred to him that Max always handed him a glass. Grumbling at his sudden need to please Max, Michael got out a glass and poured juice into it, replacing the carton in the fridge. He went and sat on the couch, deep in thought.

Max turned off the water and opened the curtain to reach for a towel. There wasn't one, Michael had not replaced the one he had worn earlier. He rolled his eyes.

"Hey, Michael, could I get a towel, please?" he called, startling Michael out of his thoughts.

"Yeah, sure. Hold on a sec," Michael replied, getting a towel from the closet and bringing it to Max. He took it and noticed the juice in Michael's other hand.

"When did you start using a glass, Michael?" he asked, amused. He started towel-drying his hair. Michael watched him, mesmerized by the play of light on his wet skin. When there was no answer to his question, Max stopped rubbing his hair and pulled the towel around his shoulders.

"Michael? You OK?" he asked. Michael forced his gaze up to Max's eyes.

"Yeah. I'm—I'm fine. I just—Max, you're…beautiful," he blurted out. Max looked down self-consciously, his cheeks reddening.

"Thank you. You're not so bad yourself," he teased gently. He noticed that Michael looked a little uncomfortable. "Come here." Hesitantly, Michael stepped into his embrace.

"It's OK, Michael. There's no need to feel guilty," Max murmured soothingly, stroking Michael's back. He relaxed against Max's shoulder. "Look, Michael, when do you work tomorrow?"

"Um, close. How about you?"

"Also close. So, why don't we just go to sleep and we can talk in the morning, all right?" Max pulled his head back to look at Michael, searching his eyes. Michael nodded, smiling a little. Max smiled back and pressed a quick kiss to his lips.

"Max, do you…do you want to come sleep with me?" he offered. Max chuckled and cupped Michael's face.

"I have it on good authority that I'm clingy and I crowd when sharing a bed, and it's way too hot for that tonight. The couch is fine, but thank you. Can I have a swig of your OJ?"

Michael handed him the glass and Max took a large swallow before giving it back, nodding his thanks.

"In the morning then," Michael stated. Max smiled.

"Yeah, in the morning. Night, Michael."

"Night, Max." Michael placed his empty glass in the kitchen sink, then flicked the light off and went back to bed. Max finished drying himself off and followed suit, stretching out on the couch. Both had so many thoughts and feelings swirling around inside their heads that they were exhausted. It did not take long for each to fall asleep.

Aww, thanks guys! I don't think I've ever seen people this excited about a repost LOL! :flasingsmile: Carol, I plan to post every other day or so.
hugs, Tas


Chapter 2

Max stretched and rolled over, landing with a thud. He opened his eyes to stare at Michael's floor, realizing where he was. He groaned and sat on the couch, his head in his hands, remembering what had transpired in the middle of the night. It had seemed like the most natural thing in the world at the time, but in the light of day…Max was not sure what to think or how to feel about it.

Well, first things first. Was it a one-time thing, a moment of insanity? Max thought about what had happened and smiled wryly at his body's swelling response. Not a one-time thing, then. Was he in love with Michael? No, he felt exactly the same towards him as always, except for the addition of physical desire. Michael was his best friend, and Max loved him as such. It wasn't really a romantic feeling at all.

No, the person whom he loved romantically was Liz, and therein lay the problem. Max and Michael had crossed a boundary and they could not step back over the line. But there was no way that Max was going to give up Liz, especially after all they had endured to be together. She was his soul mate, his other half. He would never let her go.

He needed to find a way to keep them both.

Michael entered the living room, having come to basically the same conclusion while staring at his bedroom ceiling. He didn't want to lose Max, but he recognized that if there had to be a choice, Liz would win. Which was as it should be; Max needed her. He belonged with her. Liz was the love of Max's life, and Michael was his best friend.

Max looked up as Michael sat beside him and their eyes met. No words needed to be said. They had known each other so well for so long that all the necessary information could be transmitted with a look.

They both smiled in relief. Max moved closer to Michael, wrapping an arm around his shoulders and pressing a kiss onto his temple.

"So what happens now?" Michael asked, scrunching himself to lean against Max's shoulder. Max idly stroked his arm.

"I have no idea, other than outside this apartment, nothing changes," Max remarked.

"Absolutely," Michael agreed. "Aside from that, though… What about Liz?"

Max sighed and scratched behind his ear. "I don't know yet. At some point she'll have to know. The truly weird thing is, technically I'm—cheating on her, with you. But it doesn't feel like I am. I mean, when I kissed Tess last year, even though I knew I was being, like, controlled somehow, I still felt guilty as hell. But, I don't feel guilty about last night. It was too…"

"Natural? It felt so right," Michael interposed. Max nodded in agreement, and Michael started to chuckle.

"What?" Max asked, craning his head to look at him.

"What if that book was all backwards, and it's supposed to be me and you, Tess and Isabel? Maybe we should get them into bed together," Michael laughed.

"I so did not need that mental picture, Michael," Max grinned.

"What, you don't like the idea of two women?"

"Not when one of them's my sister!"

"Good point," Michael conceded. "So, what's the protocol going to be here? Around other people, everything's the same. What about in private?"

"What do you mean?"

"Well, if I get this wicked urge in the middle of the night, can I come over and just start groping you, or are you going to be like Maria and expect a conversation?"

"Excuse me? If that's what you did with Maria, I'm not surprised you broke up!" Max spluttered, laughing.

"That would be a no?" Michael inquired archly.

"Let's just leave it at maybe, OK? We can work out the details as we go," Max smiled.

"Yeah, all right. You hungry?"

"Yeah. You've got milk and cereal, I assume?"

"Always, Maxwell. But I think I can do better than that."

"Going to get all domestic on me?"

Michael twisted towards Max, pressing their chests together. His tongue flickered out to trace Max's lips. "Got a problem with that? There are some things I like about being domestic."

"Like what?" Max closed his eyes, enjoying the featherlight touches.

"Well…like regular sex."

Max tensed. "Michael, we didn't…"

"I know. That's about as close as I want to get for now, though."

The tension drained from Max and he kissed Michael deeply, his tongue probing into the recesses of his mouth. At last Max pulled back.

"Same here. Besides, I want," he hesitated.

"Your first time to be with Liz. Which it should be, Maxwell. She's your soul mate. I'm just your best friend."

"Yeah, but Michael, I,"

"Max, don't be Mr. Sensitivity here, all right? Save that crap for your girlfriend," Michael warned. Max smiled ruefully and kissed him lightly.

"Yeah, fine. So, if you're going to do something more complicated than cereal, d'ya think you could get started? Now that you've mentioned food I'm starving."

Michael simply kissed him in response then levered himself off the couch and went into the kitchen. Max pulled a book out of his backpack and reclined on the couch.

"What are you reading now?"

"I finally got around to checking out Ulysses. I was kind of hoping it would give us a starting point for a conversation, but I guess that's not really an issue anymore," Max half-smiled. He heard Michael grunt in assent and the other corner of his mouth turned up.

"I'll yell when I'm done then. I know how oblivious you get with your nose in a book," Michael said disgustedly. Max just kept smiling and opened the novel to the marked page.

A number of pages later, Max felt a sharp stinging sensation on his bare leg. "What the," he muttered, looking up from his book. Michael stood over him with a twisted dishtowel in one hand.

"Food's ready," he laughed at Max's indignant look. Max stuck his bookmark in his place and put the book in his backpack. He stood up, turning towards the counter. Michael handed him a coffee mug and pointed at the table.

"Go. Sit. Do you want juice, too?" Max shook his head and sat down at the table. His eyes widened as Michael brought over their breakfast.

"Michael, what is this? You didn't need to go all out or anything," Max exclaimed. Michael shrugged, looking uncomfortable.

"I recently learned how to make Crepes Suzette, so…I used Tabasco instead of the brandy, though. I thought it would go well with the orange flavor."

Max smiled and looked pointedly at Michael's mouth. "It does, yes." A dull red crept up Michael's cheeks and Max laughed.

"I never thought I'd see the day when you blushed," he teased.

"Why, just because you turn 50 shades of red whenever anyone asks you if you've fucked Liz yet?" Michael shot back. He was delighted with the crimson flush that appeared on Max's face. Max chose not to take the bait, though. He just shrugged and began eating.

"Michael, these are really good. Thanks," he said sincerely. Michael half-smiled.

"No problem. I've been wanting to try it out, and it's no fun making something like that for just myself."

"I guess. I like your experimenting a hell of a lot better than my mother's, that's for sure," Max laughed. Michael joined in.

"Listen, I'd better get going. We're all supposed to be hanging out at our house tonight, right? You coming?"

"Yeah, I'll be there. I'll probably give Liz a ride on my bike."

"Has she ever been on your bike?" Max asked, surprised. Michael scratched his eyebrow.

"Actually, no. But we're both working close, and Maria's at that thing with her mother that she's been bitching about all week, so. Shouldn't be a problem. I've got a helmet for her and I'll drive carefully, don't worry."

"I'm not worried, I trust you. I'm just—thinking. Michael, do you," Max stopped mid-sentence, shaking his head.

"Do I what, Maxwell?"

"Forget it. I don't know what I was talking about. So, I'll see you tonight, then," Max continued talking as he pulled on his clothes. Michael felt a touch of disappointment as Max's T-shirt covered his beautiful chest. He heard Max laugh and dragged his gaze up to his face, to be greeted with a knowing smile. Michael just shrugged and dropped his eyes back down. Max laughed again.

"I'm out of here, Michael. Thanks again for breakfast. And—for everything else," he added softly, standing close to Michael with his backpack across one shoulder. Michael nodded and they both moved forward, lips meeting in a gentle kiss.

"See ya, Maxwell," Michael said just before he closed the door behind Max. He leaned against it, thinking about what Max hadn't said, then went to get ready for work.

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

It was closing time at the Crashdown. Liz could not figure out what was up with Michael; he was in the strangest mood tonight. A good mood, to be sure, but…strange. She kept catching him giving her these little glances and she had no idea what to make of it. But he seemed happy, so she just let it slide. If Michael was in a good mood, she did not want to ruin it! The phone rang and she picked it up.

"Hello, Crashdown Café, Liz speaking."

"Hi, it's me. Are you still coming over tonight?" Max's deep voice floated to her ears, and she closed her eyes, savoring the sound.

"Of course. Are you going to come pick me up? You know Maria's busy, right?"

"Yeah, I know. Actually, Michael said he'd give you a ride. Is that all right? He's got a passenger helmet, and he's a good driver; I've been on behind him before," Max said reassuringly. Liz conceived a mental picture of the two guys flying down the highway, Max holding onto Michael's waist for dear life. She smiled.

"Sure, that's fine. It might even be fun."

"So…do you think you'll be able to stay all night?"

Liz closed her eyes again, feeling her pulse jump at the invitation in his words. "Max, I—I don't know if I can or not. I'll try, though," she added in a breathless rush. She heard him chuckle and her cheeks became rosy, knowing he was aware of her desire. "I'll see you in a bit, Max. Bye."

"Bye, Liz. See you guys soon."

Liz hung up the phone and went to the back. Michael was just putting away the last of the clean dishes.

"Michael, that was Max. He said you were kind enough to offer me a ride over there. That's fine with me, if you're still willing," Liz said. Michael put up the final dish and turned around, smiling. Liz couldn't keep quiet any longer.

"All right, what is with you tonight? You've been a—a goof since you got here. What gives?"

Michael shook his head. "Nothing much. Max and I kind of worked things out last night; we're cool now," he admitted reluctantly. Liz shrieked and threw her arms around him. She was wearing an old sweater over top of her uniform, and it smelled faintly like Max. Her hair smelled like strawberries. Michael suddenly felt his cock stiffening at the combination of her scent and the feel of her small body in his arms. He quickly pushed her away, before she noticed. "Thanks," he muttered.

Liz giggled; typical Michael. She headed for the stairs, calling over her shoulder, "I'll just be a couple of minutes, I'm going to change."

Michael made sure everything was turned off then grabbed his clothes. Being a chick, Liz was probably going to be a while, so he just changed in the back room, throwing his work clothes on the couch as he stripped them off.

Liz got less than halfway down the stairs before she saw Michael standing in the middle of the room in just his boxers. Involuntarily, she thought, Oh, my! Maria never said anything about him looking like that! His body wasn't as well defined as Max's, but he had a rugged appeal, more of a wildness about him. Max's perfect definition was the result of his need to control everything; Michael was freer. Liz sat down and watched as he yanked on his pants, the chain swinging crazily, then pulled his shirt over his head, disdaining to unbutton it first. Every motion spoke of a lack of restraint that was doing wicked things to Liz's body. She took a deep breath as she stood up, and Michael whipped his head around, hearing her.

Their eyes locked and Michael was stunned by the fire he saw in hers. Fire directed at him. How long had she been standing there? Long enough, apparently. He continued to watch her as she floated down the stairs. A mischievous smile appeared on her lips.

"Ready to go?" she inquired, one eyebrow raised. Michael flushed; he'd forgotten for a moment that she was coming on the bike with him. Thank God she wasn't going to be sitting in front because she would surely notice his new appreciation of her then!

They went outside and Liz locked the door. Her heart was hammering in her chest as she pulled on the helmet and climbed onto the bike behind Michael. The engine roared to life, thrumming through her body. She wound her arms around Michael's waist, yelling to him, "I'm ready when you are!"

Michael popped the clutch and took off down the alley and out onto the street. Liz's long hair streamed behind her, and she felt the wind rush by her body, snatching at her. She burrowed even closer to Michael, her thighs pressed tightly against his, her small breasts crushed against his broad back. His shoulders were too wide for her to see anything, so she just closed her eyes and gave herself up to the sensations.

Michael was concentrating very hard on his driving. He could feel the hard points of her breasts against his back muscles, and there was no way the heat pressed up close to his ass could be mistaken for anything else. Her hands rode low on his waist, clutching at the waistband of his pants. Riding with Maria had never been like this. It felt as if her tiny body was surrounding him with its heat.

A few minutes later Michael pulled up at the Evans house. He killed the engine and nudged open the kickstand. Liz sat still for a moment before sliding off the bike. She removed her helmet and tossed her hair as Michael slid off, taking his helmet off as well. He looked at her. Her eyes were shining and her cheeks were rosy. She looked incredible.

"Wow! Michael, that was awesome! I didn't know what I was missing," she exclaimed. Even her voice sparkled, Michael thought distractedly. Liz laughed at his dazed expression and handed him her helmet.

"Thanks," she said, then stretched up and kissed his cheek before swiftly disappearing into the house. Michael just stood there for a couple of minutes, his skin tingling where her lips had touched him. What the hell was going on?

Chapter 3

Liz entered the house, looking immediately for Max. He had heard the screen door bang shut and came out into the kitchen. Liz slid her arms around his neck and kissed him, her tongue insisting on entrance to his mouth. He granted it, his tongue entwining with hers as his hands pulled her hips flush against him. Liz melted into him. Her hands pushed under his shirt, tracing the muscles in his back. They broke apart at the sound of a clearing throat.

Michael came into the house to bear witness to an intensely passionate kiss between Max and Liz. He saw the way she turned into liquid against him; he'd had a taste of what that might feel like. He saw how Max's long eyelashes were resting on his cheeks, his eyes tightly closed, and how his hands were beginning to roam Liz's body. He cleared his throat and they both jumped, breaking apart. Michael smiled.

Max caught Michael's eye and noted the desire there. He glanced down at Liz's head and back up at Michael, cocking his eyebrow in question. Michael's smile became wryer, and he made a slight motion with his head, indicating that yes, some of it was for Liz. He was astonished when a slow, satisfied smile spread across Max's face. He had set them up! Suddenly, Michael realized what Max had in mind as an eventual solution. He closed his eyes, a rush of desire washing over him at the thought of them together. When he opened them again, Liz was looking at him strangely, and Max looked a bit apprehensive. Michael ignored Liz's look in favor of winking at Max. Max sagged a little in relief and grinned; one down, one to go. It would take a lot more to convince Liz.

"Liz, Michael, hi! Do you guys want a soda or something?" Isabel asked as she came into the kitchen. She gave Max a dirty look for not having asked them already.

"Um, yeah, that would be great, Isabel. Thanks," Liz replied. She went to the refrigerator with Isabel and chose a can of soda, then turned back.

"Michael? Anything for you?" Liz asked, the corners of her mouth twitching. Michael wrinkled his nose at her and smiled at Isabel when she threw him a root beer. He opened the can and took a long swallow. When he looked back up, he saw Max's eyes were the ones sparking with desire now. Michael smiled cockily and went into the living room. Isabel followed him, oblivious to the tension in the room.

Liz opened her can and swallowed some as well. Max came to the conclusion that jeans had not been the best choice of clothing when he was going to have zipper marks on his cock by the end of the night between the two of them. He groaned inwardly, then grabbed a cherry coke and led Liz into the darkened living room.

The movie was already in progress; everyone else had arrived earlier than Michael and Liz. Michael had stolen Max's seat on the chair closest to the doorway, so Max sat cross-legged on the floor in front of him. Liz arranged herself on the far side of Max, on one of the large pillows the Evans had for just such purposes. She lay on her stomach, her legs in the air, touching the chair's arm. She was wearing a black, knee length jersey skirt and a long black tank top, and her legs were bare as usual.

They all watched the movie for a few minutes then Michael noticed movement. Max's hand was creeping up Liz's skirt, sliding in between her legs. He watched it, mesmerized, expecting Liz to snap her legs closed and glare at Max. Instead, he was floored when she spread them. Michael saw Max's hand disappear beneath the silky black material.

Liz shifted to give Max access to her. She laid her head on the pillow, her face aimed at the TV screen, but she wasn't watching. She was completely focused on the warm fingers that inched up her inner thigh. At last they reached her dark curls, and she sensed Max's surprise at the lack of underwear. She didn't dare look at him now, it might alert someone else to what was going on, so she just abandoned herself to the moment.

Max encountered her wetness and felt himself grow even harder. Good Lord she'd gone commando. He explored her, his access a little more restricted than usual. He slipped one finger inside her body, stroking her. He knew that Michael was the only one who could possibly see what was going on unless someone else moved, so he used his forearm to push the material of Liz's skirt up farther, enough so that he could see most of her ass, and his hand sliding back and forth rhythmically. He unfolded another finger and added it to the one pushing inside her body, increasing his pace as he felt her tighten around his fingers.

Michael had a very clear view of Max's fingers pumping into Liz's wet center. He remembered how it had felt with her pressed up against him on the bike. He had never dreamed he'd be treated to the visuals tonight, though. He saw Max adjust his hand so that he was also rubbing Liz's clitoris. Her hips were lifted off the floor a little by this time, and she was not keeping completely still. She was moving ever so slightly in time to Max's fingers. Michael could see the faint shine on Max's fingers in the darkness as he slammed them into her with increasing force.

Liz had felt the cool air on her ass the second that Max had lifted her skirt. Her first reaction had been panic, and then she realized that her lower body was blocked by Max. She had relaxed until she thought that Michael was sitting right above Max, and he would be able to see clearly. Oddly enough, the knowledge that Michael could definitely watch this if he wanted to didn't alarm her. It excited her further, and she lifted her hips off the floor as much as she could manage without changing position and giving herself away. She wanted him to watch. She wanted him to see Max's fingers stroking her. She could feel his gaze raking her bare ass as Max maneuvered his hand to start rubbing her clitoris. Liz thought she would explode right then, but Max drew it out a little longer. They were putting on a show for Michael and they wanted it to be a good one.

Michael couldn't believe how hard Max was thrusting his fingers into Liz's small frame. He saw her hips move to meet every thrust, as little as she could allow herself to move. He watched in fascination as Liz's legs began to tremble. Suddenly her entire body stiffened and her legs closed a little in reflex, then she consciously spread them wider so he could see Max's hand buried in her wetness. His hand and her curls glimmered with her liquid. Michael realized that he had just watched her come to Max's rhythm, and he thought he might do the same for a moment. His groin was aching something fierce.

Max felt her tremors start and pushed a little harder. Within seconds her muscles clenched around his fingers and her legs closed some, trapping his hand against her wetness. He smiled in satisfaction, continuing to rub and push until she relaxed her legs and he withdrew his fingers from her body. He cupped his hand over her, creating just enough heat to evaporate all the moisture, then pulled her skirt back down and lightly smacked her ass. He knew that she knew Michael would have been able to see what he was doing. And he was thrilled that she had not only played along but had seemingly welcomed the idea. It was a huge step in the right direction, even if she didn't know it yet.

Liz was shocked at her wanton behavior, but at the same time she was still incredibly turned on. She wanted, needed something more. She knew then that she had made up her mind: she was going to stay the night, and she and Max were finally going to make love.

Michael leaned down, whispering close to Max's ear, "Serious blue balls, man. Wow." Max flashed him a grin and nodded, implying that he had the same affliction. Michael leaned back and smiled. He had a feeling that he wouldn't be the person sharing Max's bedroom with him tonight, and that was all right.

The movie ended, and Tess and Kyle stood up.

"You guys aren't staying?" Max inquired.

"Unfortunately, no. Unlike Liz & Alex's, my dad knows your parents are out of town. Hence he informed us that we would be coming home tonight," Kyle sighed. Everyone laughed except Alex and Isabel, who were too involved in each other to pay attention to anything else.

Max, Liz and Michael stood up as well, walking Kyle and Tess to the door and bidding them goodbye. Michael looked towards the living room, then at Liz, and finally at Max.

"I think I'll be going, too," he announced, his eyes telling Max that he knew what would likely happen tonight and that he was all right with it. Max nodded.

"Yeah, OK. Uh, can I talk to you for a sec first? Privately—in my room," he added, glancing at Liz. She shrugged and Michael nodded, following Max down the hall. Liz watched them go, her eyes narrowing as she saw Max put his hand on the small of Michael's back to propel him into the room. She'd never seen Max do that before. Liz wondered what was so important, giggling when it occurred to her that Max might be asking Michael for condoms.

Max pushed Michael ahead of him and closed and locked the door. Michael turned around, intending to speak, only to find himself shoved against the closet door with Max's tongue in his mouth and his hands busily undoing Michael's pants. Max let them drop to Michael's ankles; boxers, too. He pulled back and smiled at Michael's expression.

"You didn't think I'd leave you like this, did you? Especially after the comment you made? I can't guarantee I'll be any good at this, but if you stare at my bed and think about what Liz and I are going to be doing there, that should help a lot," Max's smile widened as realization dawned in Michael's eyes, then he dropped to his knees.

Max's tongue encircled the head of Michael's cock then he slowly took it into his mouth. He couldn't quite take all of it, but when he pulled back, creating suction, Michael gasped at the strength of it. He was like a damn vacuum!

Max continued to suck as hard as he could, one hand working the base of Michael's cock in sync with his mouth. His other hand wandered, caressing Michael's balls, his hips, and finally his ass.

Michael clenched his fists and his eyes slitted open to look at Max's bed. His mind painted images of Max and Liz there, her skin gleaming white against his bronze, her pert breasts bouncing as Max drove into her as hard as he had fingerfucked her earlier. Michael imagined the sounds she would make, and how they would blend with Max's moans. Suddenly he felt Max slide one finger down his cleft and start tracing circles around his entrance. Michael stiffened and came right then, flooding Max's mouth and throat.

Max gulped and swallowed, amazed at the amount of liquid Michael's body produced. A blowjob was something he would never take for granted again; it was a lot more difficult than it looked! When he had swallowed all of the evidence Max slowly removed his mouth and stood up.

Michael leaned forward and kissed him, tasting his own salty sweetness. Max pressed closer, deepening the kiss. Finally they broke. Michael reached down and pulled his clothes back on. Max smiled.

"Better now?" he teased. Michael smiled back.

"Oh, yeah. Listen, Maxwell, about tonight—be good to her, OK? She deserves it."

Max looked at him, startled, then grinned. "She got to you, didn't she? Especially after you realized that the whole time she was behind you on the bike she wasn't wearing any panties."

"Yeah, she got to me. Actually, she—I think she saw me changing. I figured she'd take longer so I just changed in the back room, you know? After I put my shirt on, I heard something and there she was, on the stairs. The way she was looking at me, Max…holy Christ I've never seen a look like that. I wanted to rip her clothes off," he admitted, watching Max's reaction carefully. Max's smile became knowing.

"Yeah, I know that look. Like she wants to eat you alive. It's definitely a trip. So—you've basically figured out what I want to do here. How are you with it? Liz seems to see you as desirable already; that's a start. And I know you want her. But—how do you feel about her? Do you think you could love her?"

Michael took a deep breath. "All right. Yes, I want her. As for loving her…Max, I've been a little in love with her for over a year now, since—since I read her journal, actually."

Shock flitted across Max's face, followed by anger and finally mirth.

"That was you! Damn! She never did let me read it. It's irrelevant now, but—OK, good. The only way we're going to be able to make this work is if you and Liz can love each other, too. I'm not saying it has to be the same, but…" he trailed off.

"I know what you mean. You and Liz are always going to have that extra connection, that soul bond. But I've got bonds to you that she'll never have, too. Liz and I need to care about each other so that this doesn't turn into a tug-of-war about you. I get it. I'm already there. I think it'll take some time for Liz, though; I don't think she's ever really looked at me that way before tonight. And—Max, I don't want to, you know, do anything with her, without you. Well, except flirt, naturally," he smirked. Max laughed.

"So we're on the same wavelength then. Absolutely, flirt with her, keep her interested. Do it in front of me, so she can see that I'm OK with it. Eventually I'll think of some way of telling her what's really going on. Till then…"

"Yeah," Michael nodded. They smiled in perfect agreement then went back to the kitchen and Liz. Michael grabbed his helmet, jamming it on his head. Liz spoke up.

"You'll have to take me for another ride sometime, Michael. That was awesome!"

Michael smiled at her then looked at Max. Prompted by his faint smile, he asked, "Do you want to go for a little ride now? I can drop you back here."

Liz looked at Max. He came closer and nuzzled her hair, whispering in her ear, "Go ahead, if you want. It'll give me time to get out my secret stash of candles and set them up." Liz giggled and pulled his head down for a kiss. She slipped her tongue into his mouth to play with his. He tasted a little different than usual. It was kind of familiar, but nothing she could quite pin down. Liz mentally shrugged; it would come to her later. She pulled back and turned to Michael.

"That would be fun. Let's go for a ride," she replied. Michael handed her the other helmet and she put it on as they walked out of the house.

Max followed them out and stood beside Liz as she mounted the bike behind Michael. He met Liz's eyes then eased the front of her skirt up so that her bare skin was pressed against Michael's jeans. Liz scooted as far forward as possible, watching the desire flare in Max's eyes. She didn't know yet what game these two were playing, but for the moment she was willing to go along.

Liz suddenly realized that Max had deliberately gotten Michael to give her a ride over here. Something about knowing she was teasing Michael was a turn-on for Max. It turned her on, too. So she wasn't surprised when all Max said was, "Don't be too long. Have fun."

"What, no "be good"?" Liz asked slyly. Her insides melted as Max trapped her gaze with his.

"Can't have it both ways," he said huskily. He slid a finger down into the scarce space between Michael and Liz, giving her clitoris a quick stroke. Liz jumped, grinding her hips into Michael. Max stepped back, smiling, and licked his finger as he looked at Michael. Then he waved as Michael started the engine and took off.

For the first time in his life Michael was wishing that he wore hiphugger jeans. If he had been, Liz's wet, bare skin would be pressed against his skin, instead of against his jeans. He had seen the message in Max's eyes, and his gesture had been understood.

Liz felt fevered and intoxicated. The rough cotton of Michael's jeans rubbed against her and the vibrations of the bike zoomed through her. Remembering the way Max had looked at her, Liz threw caution to the winds. She noticed they were headed out of town, probably so the noise wouldn't bother anyone. As soon as they passed the city limits, Liz lifted the back of Michael's shirt and the front of her own, pressing her bare breasts against his skin.

Michael's jaw dropped as he realized that a mostly naked Liz Parker was plastered to his backside. He swallowed hard and slowed down a little. No sense in courting disaster; he knew damn well his full attention wasn't going to be on the road.

Liz's hands moved from their secure hold on Michael's waist, sliding up and down his chest. Her nails scraped lightly across his nipples, and she smiled at the way he abruptly inhaled. She continued to play with his nipples, her own hardened now and digging into his soft skin.

When Michael made a twisting motion signaling the onset of overstimulation, Liz slid her hands down to his thighs. She rubbed as far down as she could reach, then caressed his inner thighs. Every so often her hand would brush against his rock-hard cock, seemingly accidentally, and a bolt of electricity would shoot through him.

Michael came to a wide flat area and turned around, conscious of what he'd said to Max. Not only that it wouldn't be a long ride, but also that he didn't want to do anything with Liz yet. Because if he stopped the bike now it would be to take her, and he did not want to do that.

As the neared the city limits again, Liz tugged both their tops back into place. She returned her arms to around his waist, though her hands were dangerously close to his groin. Michael pulled to a stop outside the Evans', not turning off the engine.

Liz slid off the bike and removed her helmet, fastening it to the back. She stood close to Michael and looked at him.

"Thank you. I enjoyed that," she purred, her meaning clear. Michael nodded, a question in his eyes. Liz smiled.

"Why—honestly?" she inquired. At his nod, she continued, "I saw you changing after work. There was something about the way you moved… Later, when Max was…playing, I knew that you would be able to see me, and that excited me. Then it dawned on me that Max had set us up with the bike ride—with both of them, and that he wanted me to tease you… It was what I wanted to do already, and since Max wanted it too, and you didn't seem to object, I figured, why not?"

Michael shook his head. "Liz Parker, you never fail to amaze me."

"Thank you, Michael. I think that's the nicest thing you've ever said to me," Liz grinned, and ducked under his arm. She hugged him, quickly dragging her hand across his groin as she stepped back. Liz winked and turned around, going into the house.

Michael watched till she disappeared, then headed for home. Much as he had enjoyed the blowjob, Max might as well not have bothered. Michael was aching even more now than he had been earlier.

I think I've confused some of the re-readers. When I went on hiatus with this threesome, where I stopped writing was ch. 16 of the sequel, Full Circle. To the best of my knowledge, y'all were there with me! Firsts has 13 chapters and segues directly into Full Circle. So don't get toooo excited there, because it ain't gonna be a trilogy!
hugs, Tas


Chapter 4

Liz entered the house, finding most of the lights turned off. She locked the door and left her shoes in the hallway, heading for Max's room. She averted her eyes as she went past the dark living room; soft cries alerted her that Alex and Isabel hadn't made it out of there. She opened Max's door quietly and went in, locking it as well.

The room was filled with dancing candlelight from the dozens of tealights scattered on every available flat surface. Max was stretched out on his bed, clad only in boxers. He had evidently been reading when he had fallen asleep; the book lay open on his chest, the pages ruffling as he breathed.

Liz smiled tenderly and just looked at him. He was so beautiful. The candlelight caressed his bronze skin, making it glow. She had a moment's hesitation about waking him up, but he had sent her on that wild ride which had left her aching with desire.

Liz carefully moved the book then dropped her clothes on the desk chair. She climbed onto the bed and straddled Max, settling her wetness against his rapidly hardening cock. She saw a faint smile touch Max's lips and Liz wriggled, pushing against him.

Max's eyes flew open to the sight of a wonderfully naked Liz. There was no mistaking the look in her eyes. He smiled broadly.

"Have a nice ride?" he inquired. Liz turned up the wattage of her eyes, feeling the results against her wet heat. She smiled ferally.

"Not as wild as the one I'm about to get," she whispered, watching knowledge appear in Max's eyes. She bent down and attacked his mouth.

Max opened his mouth at her demand. His boxers were soaked where she was sitting, and the wet material rasped against him as she began to circle her hips, pressing ever closer. He had wanted their first time to be slow and languid, but there was no way that would work for Liz now. He'd never seen her quite like this. Max felt a pang of jealousy, which burned away in a rush of pride that Michael had done this to her. At that moment, he knew that this unlikely arrangement would work.

Giving over his romantic ideas, Max flipped Liz onto her back and trailed open-mouthed kisses down her neck. She moaned and pushed his head down to her breasts. Max chuckled and obligingly sucked one stiff nipple into his mouth, manipulating it with his tongue while his hand closed over her other breast, kneading it and pulling at her nipple.

Liz was panting and moaning now. She gasped, "Max, it's not—enough. I need—more."

He felt a surge of desire at her words and shimmied down her body. She spread her legs for him eagerly and Max dipped his tongue in her honey. Liz cried out incoherently and Max knew he was the one with the power now. Liz was abandoning herself to the sensations flooding through her body, sensations that Max controlled.

He dragged his tongue along the length of her, listening to her moan, watching her fists bunch up the bedspread. Max began to lick her, softly at first, using the flat of his tongue. He did not touch the tiny bundle of nerves but licked all around it. His tongue slid smoothly against her slick warmth, branding her skin.

Liz was writhing, her moans clearly audible over the radio playing softly in the background. Max firmed his tongue, using the point to dig into her sensitive flesh. Glancing up at her face, he swept his tongue across her clitoris at last.

"Ahhh!" echoed through the room and Max felt Liz's body jump at the touch. He narrowed his eyes in satisfaction at the tense anticipation in her face and licked her clitoris again.

"Max! Oh, God," she cried out as his tongue flickered out again and again. Liz was unconsciously thrusting her hips a little, trying to get closer to his mouth. Max didn't let her. He kept up the slow pattern, soft licks alternating with the occasional hard probing of his tongue.

Liz was going out of her mind. She was beyond thought, beyond anything but reacting to the stroking of Max's tongue. At some level she was aware that she wasn't being quiet anymore, but she was also beyond caring if anyone heard her.

Max was in his element. He gave her one long, hard lick, feeling the faint tremors run through her body. It was the breaking point for Liz.

"God, Max, please! Please, just…please! Max," she begged. Max almost lost it at the sweet sound of her words. Instead he bent to his task, gently licking her clitoris in a slow rhythm. As he increased his pace, he also licked a little harder until the tip of his tongue was working her bundle of nerves. Liz had stopped saying please; now it was just his name that spilled from her lips in a litany. It was one hell of an ego trip.

Liz felt it start at her toes. They instinctively curled as the pleasure raced up her body. When it reached the spot where Max's tongue was in contact with her skin, Liz shattered. She arched off the bed, throwing her head back as she screamed out, "Max!" Her legs stiffened and closed, holding Max's head against her, and even her fingertips tingled with life as she shook violently.

Max was in awe. He couldn't believe the response he'd wrung from her. He kept licking, very softly now, until Liz stopped shaking and moved her legs apart, allowing him to move. Max pressed a kiss to her wet skin and sat up, wiping his mouth. He grinned at the look on her face.

"Hey, there. Come back to earth yet?" he murmured tenderly. She was so incredible. At last her eyes found his and she smiled, a little wobbly. Her gaze was dark with need.

"Max, I—wow. I can't even form words yet," she admitted breathlessly. Her voice grew husky. "But—Max, make love to me. I need you. I love you," she whispered. Max moved up, kissing her eyelids, her cheeks, finally her mouth.

"I love you too," he echoed softly. He took off his boxers and fumbled in the night table for a condom. Finding one, he rolled it on and knelt between her legs. "Liz, you're sure?"

Liz had watched interestedly as Max put on the condom. She felt a touch of fear, looking at his erection. She couldn't even get the whole thing in her mouth, would he fit elsewhere?

Max saw her fear and brushed her cheek. "We don't have to. I want you, very, very much," his voice became wry and Liz smiled, "but this is your call. If you're not ready yet, we can wait."

Liz looked into his liquid amber eyes. There was so much love there, so much desire. It was only her mind that was hesitating. Her soul, her heart already belonged to Max, and her body wanted him so much she ached.

"Yes, Max. I'm sure," she said softly, her tone one of conviction. She saw sparks fly in Max's eyes and braced herself.

Max entered her, breaking through her membrane with one smooth thrust. He held as still as possible after her gasp of pain, letting her adjust. Finally she nodded and slowly, carefully, Max began to move within her, his eyes locked on hers.

The pain had been sharp but not as bad as Liz had expected. The first few movements were painful still, but her muscles gradually became accustomed to the new presence stretching them and Liz felt a different kind of pressure building.

Max gritted his teeth with the effort to keep his rhythm slow and steady, to wait for her before allowing his own release. He'd never dreamed that it would feel this good. She felt like hot silk sliding against him, her tight walls squeezing his cock. He closed his eyes, praying for the strength to hold on.

Liz was overwhelmed that he would do that, that he held himself in check when he had already brought her amazing pleasure twice tonight. Her eyes filled with tears and she smiled in response to the anxious question in Max's eyes.

He smiled at her tears and kissed them away. Max gasped as he felt the sudden build-up of tension; he wasn't going to be able to wait.

"Liz," he breathed and she kissed his nose. Her hands pressed his buttocks closer to her, letting him know that it was all right, that he could let go.

Max kissed her deeply then pulled back to maintain eye contact as he let his control slip. He thrust harder as he sped up and Liz gasped, raising her hips to meet him. That was all the encouragement Max needed.

He drove into her with more force, watching her face contort with pleasure each time he penetrated her. Max felt his body tighten, and then he exploded, calling out, "Liz!"

Watching Max's face as he came sent Liz along with him. It was a completely different kind of orgasm; softer, deeper, more profoundly satisfying. They rocked together for a little longer, drawing out the sensations, before their motion stopped.

Max rested on top of Liz for a moment before withdrawing from her body. She made a disappointed sound as he moved away. He smiled at her as he removed the condom and tossed it in the garbage can. They wouldn't have to use them for long. Liz had gone on the pill; she just hadn't been on it long enough yet for it to be safe without other protection.

Max lay back down beside Liz, cradling her against his side. They lay together in contented silence for a while, until they started to get cold. Liz laughed.

"I'm going to go use your bathroom. Why don't you blow out the candles and get under the covers?"

"Sounds like a plan," Max yawned. "May I say, thank you for waking me up so delightfully?" Liz kissed him and stood up.

"Thank you for an utterly mind-blowing experience," she said, her voice serious. Max looked surprised, then pleased with himself. Liz laughed at him and went down the hallway.

After she was finished, Liz opened the bathroom door and stepped into the hallway, right in front of an equally nude Isabel. The two women stared at each other for a long moment. Then Liz stuck out her hand.

"Congratulations. It must be the names ending in –x," she said, her lips twitching as she tried not to smile. Isabel shook her proffered hand, looking shocked, then they both started to laugh. Liz waved and headed back towards Max's room. Isabel called after her.

"Liz, you should come shopping with me. Your clothes don't really do your body justice."

Liz turned around, startled. "Yeah, OK. Maybe next weekend."

"Great! See you tomorrow," Isabel said brightly before she disappeared into the bathroom. Liz shook her head and went into Max's room.

Max had blown out the candles and turned his bedside lamp on low. He pulled back the covers invitingly for Liz and she crawled in, flicking off the lamp before she got settled.

"Did I hear you talking to Isabel?" he asked.

"Um, yeah," Liz said, trying not to smile. "She wants to take me shopping. Apparently she thinks I have a nice body."

Max gaped at her. "I agree, but weren't you like embarrassed?"

"Well, I would have been if I had been the only one naked," Liz declared. Max's eyes were as round as his open mouth now and Liz finally laughed.

"Did you know that your sister is just as disgustingly beautiful without her clothes on?" Liz giggled. Max rolled his eyes.

"I go out of my way to avoid thinking about Iz naked, all right? It's bad enough hearing guys talk about her sometimes, I don't need it from my girlfriend too! Are you going to go? Shopping, that is."

"Yeah, why not?" Liz shrugged. "And before you say it, yes I know what to expect when shopping with someone like Isabel. Don't worry, I can handle it," she reassured him. Max laughed and pulled her tight against him. Liz rested her head on his shoulder, one arm and one leg flung over him. Completely at peace with each other and their world, they drifted off to sleep.

Dee ROTFLMAO yes I remember that well! Don't you owe me a promotion, boss?

Thanks for reading, everyone.
hugs, Tas


Chapter 5

In the morning, Liz awoke slightly disoriented. There was a heavy weight lying across her stomach, and she was much warmer than usual. She took a deep breath and Max's scent filled her nostrils, reminding her of where she was and what had happened. Liz smiled as she opened her eyes.

The weight was Max's arm, curled around her possessively. At some point during the night they had shifted, and now he was cuddled up to her. He looked so adorable with his hair all mussed and his face relaxed in slumber. Liz felt a wave of love course through her as she looked at him. Gradually she became aware of her extreme thirst, and she carefully extricated herself from Max's embrace. He muttered as she slipped away, his hand groping for her. His eyes opened a crack.

"Good morning, sleepyhead," Liz whispered teasingly. "I won't be gone long. Where do you keep your T-shirts?"

She followed his mumbled directions to the correct drawer and pulled out a plain, charcoal gray T-shirt, smiling as she realized it was the one Max had been wearing when he had healed her. She put it on, then searched for her panties and put them on too. Feeling decent enough, she slowly opened Max's door and headed for the kitchen.

Liz had her head in the refrigerator, reaching for the orange juice, when she heard a noise behind her. She slammed the door and spun around.

"Alex! God, you scared me half to death!" she scolded. He raised an eyebrow at her choice of attire, and Liz flushed. Then she smiled mischievously.

"So, how are you this morning? Isabel naked is something else, huh?" she needled him. Alex promptly turned red. The two friends smiled at each other.

"I'm guessing that your night was as good as my night, if your, hmm, vocalizations were any indication," Alex said more seriously. "This is going to sound whacked, Liz, but…it's kind of nice that this happened at the same time for us. It has this weird symmetry."

Liz pulled the refrigerator open again and got the orange juice. She snagged two glasses from the cupboard and sat at the table, pouring juice in each glass and passing one to Alex, who sat with her.

"It does, doesn't it? I mean, it makes this sick kind of sense that Max and Isabel would lose their virginity on the same night. Mmm, did Isabel tell you we're going clothes shopping for me?"

"Yeah, she mentioned it. Actually, I'm kind of looking forward to seeing the results. You've always been beautiful, Parker. It'll be nice to have the rest of the world take notice too," he complimented her.

"Thank you. But you're just as biased as Max. It was kind of an ego boost to hear it from Isabel, though," Liz laughed.

"So where did you go last night? Everyone sort of left at the same time, and I heard you come back in like half an hour later. What gives?"

The question unleashed a flood of memories. Michael standing in the Crashdown in just his boxers; Max's hand buried in her body while Michael's hot gaze raked her bare ass; the feel of Michael's skin warm against her own as the wind whipped past them and his bike vibrated between her legs. Liz shook her head against the storm of lust the images stirred up.

"Alex, can you keep this to yourself? This is like, really important. And we can't say anything to Maria about it, either," Liz warned. Upon seeing his wary expression, she quickly added, "It's not a subject that will come up in everyday conversation or anything, trust me. You won't have to lie to her about it, just refrain from mentioning it."

Alex's face smoothed and he nodded, indicating that he would not say anything. Liz looked around stealthily then spoke.

"OK. Please just—listen to me before you make any comments, all right? And try not to be a smartass, I need some help with this. OK, after work last night, I saw Michael, well, mostly naked. He thought I'd take longer to change and stuff I guess, so he was just changing in the back room when I came downstairs."

"Still doesn't know you very well, then, does he," Alex snorted. At a glare from Liz, he held up his hands. "Right, sorry. Just listening. This is me listening."

"Thank you. I, uh—when I saw him, I didn't say anything, I just…watched. He has a really nice body, you know. Different than Max's; he's kind of…never mind, that's not important now. Anyway, we drove over here on Michael's bike, which was, well, you know. It provoked the intended reaction. So—later, when everyone left, I told Michael that I'd love to go for another ride sometime, and he suggested now. I mean, then. When we went outside, Max came with us, and… Well, they seemed to have this whole silent communication thing going on, and from what was said and done and even more from what wasn't said, I got the impression that they would both be happy if, uh, if I—teased Michael," Liz said softly, watching Alex intently. His eyes were huge and she stifled a giggle before finishing her story.

"Anyway, so…I did. The details aren't important—and I wouldn't tell you them anyway—but when I got back Max seemed, um, pleased with the whole idea. And then, well, we weren't really talking anymore and you know how that ended already, so… What do you think is going on? I could really use your help here."

Alex blinked and rubbed his eyes before saying, "Well, first of all, I take it that you're attracted to Michael, yes?"

Liz nodded hesitantly. "It's not like what I feel for Max, it's completely different, but…by the time we got back here all I could think about was getting into Max's pants," she blushed a little. Alex smiled.

"All right, let me summarize, just to make sure I've got it. Max and Michael both turn you on, and you obviously turn both of them on. You had this dangerously close to the line flirting experience with Michael that Max pre-approved and he was willing to reap the benefits of it. Said benefits included losing your virginity to Max, whom I know you love and who loves you. I'm going to go out on a limb here and speculate that your attraction to Michael includes more than just lust. I know you, Liz, and if your heart isn't involved then your brain and your body aren't participating either. How'm I doing so far?"

"That about covers it, yeah. What do I DO, Alex?" Liz asked in frustration.

"Well, we need to figure out how Max and Michael came to this agreement. I mean, I've always seen Max as pretty possessive of you, so there's got to be more to the situation. That aside, Liz, what do you want to do?"

"How wrong would it be if I said I wanted them both?" she whispered. "I love Max, with every fiber of my being, but…Michael touches something in me too. He has for a long time, I just—always ignored it. But how would that work? You're right, Max is possessive, and I think Michael would be too. How could I possibly go back and forth?"

"Ah, Liz, I don't think it would be a back and forth kind of thing, I think it would be a threesome with Liz in the middle kind of thing. You know, share and share alike," Alex chuckled at her widening eyes.

"I can see that idea doesn't bother you at all. So what we need is a plan then, to get them to agree to this arrangement. Right now they've obviously got some arrangement of their own in place, but it's not an equal arrangement. They have to be equal if this is going to work, because otherwise it will be a back and forth thing and all three of you will get hurt. Liz…do you think you could love Michael?"

"Not the same way that I love Max, but…they're such very different people that wouldn't be possible anyway. I think so, yes. I, um, I already have feelings for him, as you pointed out. I wouldn't have done anything if I didn't," she declared with surety.

"OK! Then let's figure out what you need to do to snare them both," Alex proclaimed. He smiled ruefully at Liz. "You know, Parker, I thought that I'd had a good night. It wasn't anything compared to yours!"

They shared a laugh then Liz said, "We'll have to make that plan later, Alex. I need some time to think about it, anyway. Right now I just want to go back to bed for a while."

"Yeah, me, too. I want to snuggle up to my beautiful goddess and gloat that she's mine," he chuckled. Liz laughed.

"Thanks for not wigging out on me about this. I know it's a little peculiar, but…" she trailed off at the look on his face.

"Liz, you and I had sex with aliens last night. I don't think anything is going to faze me now."

"Good point," Liz conceded, and gave Alex a quick hug upon rising from the table. She put the juice back in the refrigerator and their glasses in the sink then padded back to Max's room, stopping to use the bathroom first.

Max was still asleep. He was sprawled across the bed now, his arms and legs flung out at bizarre angles. Liz giggled at the picture he made. She made sure she locked the door, then removed her clothes and crawled onto the bed. She breathed in Max's ear, "Going to sleep all day?"

Max mumbled something inaudible and turned towards her, flipping onto his back and tossing the covers onto the floor in the process. Liz's eyes were caught by his stiff erection and her heart started to pound as an idea occurred to her.

She positioned herself between his legs, gently pushing them far enough apart to accommodate her small body. Her movements were slow and careful; she did not want him to wake up quite yet. When she was settled, she wrapped her hands around the base of Max's cock and sucked the tip into her mouth.

Max was having the most incredible erotic dream he had ever had. He could actually feel Liz's hands on him, her warm, wet mouth and its amazing suction. Involuntarily he started to thrust his hips just a little, in time with her mouth. He moaned low in his throat and clenched his fists around handfuls of the bottom sheet, pulling its edges off the mattress.

Liz could not believe how responsive Max was. Obviously he held back even more than she had suspected. She felt an intoxicating rush of power at knowing how much she truly affected him. She sucked harder, twirling her tongue around the head of his cock every time she pulled back. Her hands worked ceaselessly, one building a steady rhythm that followed the wet trail of her lips, one gently caressing his balls. Max was moving restlessly now, his body dancing to the tune that Liz was playing. His hands slipped down to her head, sliding into her hair.

Max never wanted this dream to end. Some part of his brain that was not fuzzy with sensation was aware that it could not last much longer, though. Sighing, he unclenched his fists and slid his hands into Liz's hair, the silky strands that he loved so much. The feel of her hair on his skin was so…real. Oh, my God he was not dreaming, this was real! Max opened his eyes to the sight of Liz sucking his cock and he immediately lost it, his shuddering orgasm sending liquid straight down her throat as he helplessly thrust into her mouth.

Liz consciously forced her throat muscles to relax as Max thrust into her. For the first time, she had all of him in her mouth, every delicious inch. She felt the warmth of his seed spilling into her and swallowed more carefully than she ever had before. Finally he was spent and she gently withdrew, pressing a kiss to the tip of his cock before she crawled up Max and smirked at the look on his face.

"Hi. Can you speak yet?" she teased, her smile widening as he shook his head and gathered her closer, kissing her lips. Several minutes passed before Max found his voice.

"I can't believe you did that. I thought I was having the most fabulous dream, and then I touched your hair and I realized I wasn't dreaming. God, Liz, I could wake up like that every day. Thank you," he sighed, his tone one of sheer bliss. Liz giggled.

"You're welcome, but I don't think we can do that daily, my dear. Besides, what happens if you wake up first? It could happen. Someday," she said coyly. Max growled and shifted so that he was on top of her.

"Well, then I would have to return the favor," he remarked, the light tone of his voice belied by the fire in his eyes. Liz shivered in desire as his mouth descended to her neck, nipping at her tender skin. She was already so aroused from thinking about being with both Max and Michael, and from Max's uninhibited response, that her nipples were hard peaks and Max had not even touched her breasts yet. Max noticed, one corner of his mouth lifting in a wicked smile.

"I see I wasn't the only one affected," he breathed against her skin, watching her nipple contract even more from the cool air. Liz whimpered and Max's tongue snaked out, grazing the tight flesh. She arched into his mouth, pushing his head down with her hands. His sensuous chuckle rumbled through her and fanned the flames that his circling tongue was creating. Max lifted his hand to lazily caress her other breast, rolling her nipple between his fingers. Liz moved beneath him so that she could rub against his leg, trying to relieve some of the ache that she was feeling. Max let her for a few moments, then shifted away. Before she could even vocalize her disappointment, his fingers were buried inside her.

"Max!" she gasped softly. The sensation was incredible, but she wanted more than just his fingers. She squirmed away and groped for the bedside table, yanking out a condom and tearing open the package. Liz pushed Max to one side and reached between his legs, smiling when she found him hard. It had not even occurred to her that he might not be yet, but he was so she rolled the condom on him and pulled him back on top of her.

Max had an amused look on his face. Liz was a woman on a mission and he had no intention of interfering. She flushed when she saw his little smile and stuck her tongue out at him, only to find it sucked into his mouth as he kissed her. Liz explored his mouth with her tongue, her hands roaming his chest and back and her legs wrapping around him. Max kept his hips elevated a little though, not letting her bring them together, and Liz made a strangled sound of frustration.

Max continued to kiss her deeply, entangling her tongue and letting it go only to recapture it. He reached down in between their bodies and grasped his cock, rubbing the tip against her clitoris. Liz moaned repeatedly as he continued to stroke her like that, her nails raking across his muscles. As she neared release Max rapidly substituted his fingers, rubbing a little harder. They both felt her tension building and just as Liz's toes curled at the beginning of the shockwave Max slammed into her, still rubbing. A hoarse cry was ripped from her throat and she arched completely off the bed, thrusting against him.

Max felt a shiver of satisfaction that it had worked. He would never have been able to hold out like that if he had not already climaxed. His thoughts were lost in the next instant as sensation washed over him and he gave himself up to the pleasure of being one with Liz, beginning a fast rhythm inside her.

Liz's hands scraped and scratched across his back and his ass, trying to bring him closer. Max buried his face in her neck, sucking on her sweet skin. She tilted her head away from him, letting him brand her like she was branding him. Her feet were planted firmly on the bed now to give her enough leverage to meet every single mindbending thrust, forcing their bodies as close as possible until they both backed off a little before driving into each other again. Every collision sent pleasure crashing over and through them, and neither was sure who was Max and who was Liz, or of anything beyond the urgent need for each other.

Liz began shaking, feeling the scream build in her throat. She grasped Max's hair and yanked his head back far enough so that she could attack his mouth. Their lips met and their tongues dueled as they both raced over the pinnacle and exploded. Max swallowed their cries, muffling Liz's scream with his mouth. At last they slowed, their force spent. Liz lowered her hips to the bed and Max followed, literally collapsing on top of her.

"Umpf," she grunted, his sudden weight expelling her breath. "Max, you're heavy."

"I know," his voice was muffled against her shoulder. "I think you just proved that you're strong enough to take it, though."

Liz laughed at the tone of his voice. Max sounded awed, amused, and completely wrung out. He summoned a smile as he raised his head and kissed her, then slowly withdrew and maneuvered himself off the bed. He tossed out the condom and pulled on his pants.

"I'll be back in a sec," he murmured, bending over her and pulling the covers back onto the bed. His smile widened; Liz looked just as exhausted as he felt. Max sat beside her and brushed his thumb across her cheekbone.

"I love you, Liz," he said quietly. Liz smiled and turned her face into the caress, kissing the side of his hand.

"Mmm, I love you, too. I'm just trying to figure out why we waited so damn long to do this," she remarked lethargically. "Bring me back a glass of water, please?"

"You got it," Max agreed and bent to kiss her forehead. He rose and left the room, not hearing Liz's gasp at the way his back looked. She thought about calling him back and telling him to put a shirt on, but it required much too much effort to yell right now. Instead, Liz curled up on her side under the blankets and dozed off.

Max used the bathroom and brushed his teeth. Liz had not seemed to mind, or even to notice his morning breath, but he could taste it. Funny, he had not noticed hers either though he assumed she had had it too. He padded into the kitchen, pulling out two glasses from the cupboard. One he filled with filtered water, and he was reaching for the juice when he heard a low whistle. Max looked around and saw Alex standing close by, smirking as he looked at Max's torso.

"Hey, Alex. How's it going?" Max asked with an answering smile. Most guys would get upset, knowing that the guy standing in front of them had just deflowered their sister, but not Max. Alex was the best thing that had ever happened to Isabel. And if their night together had been even half as enjoyable as his and Liz's, he wished them well.

"Hey, Max. You look like you've been through a war," Alex commented.

"I kind of feel like I have been, my friend. Wish I could tell you who won," he laughed.

"Well, if you're feeling anything like Liz was when I ran into her this morning, I'd call it a draw. Isabel has decided that she wants coffee. Since you're here, would you mind pointing out the location of the coffeemaker?" he asked, smiling broadly. Max indicated which cupboard it was in as he poured the juice and Alex pulled out the appliance, plugging it in. Max smiled at his confused look.

"Here, I'll give you everything you need then you can actually make the coffee," he offered as he pulled out the filters and the ground coffee and handed them to Alex. Alex started measuring out the grinds and setting up the coffeemaker as Max pulled something from another cupboard.

"What's that?" Alex pointed at the bottle Max was holding.

"It's vanilla syrup. Isabel likes her coffee really sweet, but she doesn't much care for the taste of dissolved sugar, so she uses this. I'll pour it out for you," he chuckled as he put enough in the mug to cover the bottom. Alex grimaced then shrugged, figuring he didn't have to drink it so who cared? Just then they heard a knock on the door.

"Alex, would you? I'm not exactly company appropriate," Max rolled his eyes. Alex grinned and went to answer the door. Max heard the murmur of voices, then soft footfalls.

"So who was it?" Max asked as he turned around from where he had been finishing the coffee setup. He froze. Standing beside Alex, his face a complete mask, was Michael.

Sorry, sorry! I completely didn't get here day before yesterday, and well, yesterday was Remembrance Day and it didn't seem quite appropriate to post. In any case, here's the next chapter!
hugs, Tas


Chapter 6

"Michael! I, uh, I wasn't—expecting you," Max got out through his suddenly dry mouth. He controlled the urge to take him in his arms and make this all better.

"I can see that," Michael responded, his voice as expressionless as his face. "I forgot my sketch pad here last night, I just wanted to pick it up."

"Right. Right, of course. Um, where is it?" Max asked. His heart was pounding in his chest. Michael had known that Max and Liz were going to make love last night. What had he expected Max to look like? Moreover, why was he here at all? He could have gotten his sketchbook later.

"It's in the living room. I'll get it," Michael brushed off Max's offer before he could even say it and went out of the kitchen. Max sagged against the counter a little, not noticing the speculative look on Alex's face. A couple of minutes later, Michael returned, book in hand.

"Thanks. See ya," he said shortly, looking at Max. For a brief moment the wall went down and Max saw the hurt swimming in his eyes. Max's own gaze softened, but Michael snapped the wall back up and turned on his heel, leaving. Max heard the rev of the bike's engine and realized that he had not noticed the sound before, he'd been too wrapped up in thoughts of Liz. Well, and coffee, to be completely honest with himself. He sighed. The coffee was done now, so he poured some into the mug he had prepared for Isabel, plus two more for himself and Alex. He handed Alex one mug and waved at a cupboard beside the refrigerator.

"Sugar's in there, cream's in the fridge if you want anything," Max said quietly. Alex noticed that the sparkle had gone out of him. Was that because Michael had seemed angry with him? There was definitely something else going on here. Alex thought that he would keep it to himself for now; no sense involving Liz until he was sure.

"Thanks, Max. I'll see you later," Alex said as he doctored his coffee and picked up both mugs. Max nodded and watched Alex leave the room. He grabbed the glass of juice he had poured and gulped it down, then took his coffee and Liz's water and went back to his bedroom. He smiled as he put down the beverages; Liz was asleep, her hair fanned out across his pillow. How many times had he dreamed of that sight? For how many years? Max considered waking her, but instead he pulled his chair close to the bed and sat down. He watched the soft rise and fall of her chest, the way her lashes stood out against her cheek; the slight smile on her lips. God, she was beautiful. Max sipped at his coffee, his eyes never leaving the woman of his dreams as he contemplated what he could do to make this strange arrangement work, without anyone getting hurt again like Michael had been this morning.

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

Later that night, after eating Chinese take-out with Isabel and his parents and hearing all about their weekend, Max drove over to Michael's. He had decided not to heal the scratches Liz had inflicted. Not only had Michael already seen them, but Max didn't want to erase all evidence of his night with Liz. It was too important to him. Michael would just have to learn to deal. Feeling apprehension swirl in the pit of his stomach, Max knocked on Michael's door.

"Hey," Michael said, opening the door. His face was unreadable as he swung it wide, gesturing for Max to come in. Max stepped inside, closing the door. They stood there looking at each other for a long moment, then a slow smile spread over Michael's face.

"I always figured she'd be a hellcat in bed," he drawled, loving the way Max's eyes lit up with relief. Max grinned; apparently Michael had come to terms with his and Liz's activities on his own.

"Yeah, they say the quiet ones are the most passionate," Max joked. Michael raised his eyebrows then raked his gaze up and down Max.

"I can understand why," he teased, his smile widening at the faint blush that graced Max's cheeks at his implication that Max was another quiet, passionate person. Max shrugged and sat down on the couch. As expected, the television was turned to a sports channel for the hockey game.

"So, Maxwell. Details, buddy. How was it?" Michael asked, plopping down next to him on the couch. Max looked at him, surprised.

"What, you really want to know?" Max was a little hesitant. At Michael's emphatic nod, he shrugged. "It was…phenomenal. She feels like hot silk, only—tight. It's impossible to describe, really. And Liz is…remarkably, um, loud. I mean, she's always been vocal, but she was—totally uninhibited last night. It was quite a rush," he admitted.

"Sounds awesome," Michael said, his mind picturing them together. It was an incredibly erotic portrait, with Liz's head thrown back and her lips parted to allow her cries to escape. He shifted on the couch, getting into a more comfortable position as his jeans became restrictive.

"You know, Michael…I think I have you to thank in part for it being so incredible. Liz was on fire when she came back from your ride together. I've never seen her quite that worked up," he confessed.

"Are you serious?" Michael inquired incredulously. At Max's nod, he grinned. "Whew, it's nice to know I wasn't the only one affected!"

"What happened? I mean, I didn't ask Liz about it. Actually, I never got a chance to say much of anything. I'd fallen asleep while you guys were gone, and the next thing I knew my girlfriend was sitting on top of me naked and seriously aroused!"

They both laughed, and Michael explained the events of his and Liz's bike ride, enjoying the way Max's eyes were growing rounder as he spoke.

"I noticed when I got home that my jeans were wet where she was pressed up against me. I know I said I didn't want to do anything with her, but I didn't have any control over what she was doing! It was all I could do to keep driving," he finished the story. Max was shaking his head.

"God, can you believe her? How the hell did I get so lucky? How did we get so lucky?" Max added, smiling. Michael snorted.

"Some of us haven't gotten lucky yet. But hey, I can wait. Besides, I…" he trailed off, and Max gestured for him to continue. Michael shook his head, and Max let it drop.

"Michael…why did you come over this morning? And come to think of it, why did you use the front door?" Max laughed. Michael smiled ruefully.

"I really did come for my sketchbook. I couldn't find my spare one, and there was something bugging me to get it onto paper, so…I didn't expect to run into you, I guess. I knew what you'd been doing, and—I don't know, I guess I just didn't expect to be confronted with the evidence quite so soon. Which is why I didn't go to your window. Or Isabel's. I do not need to see her or Alex naked," he chuckled.

"Oh, yeah. Liz and Isabel ran into each other naked in the hallway, and Iz is taking her shopping. That should prove interesting," Max laughed.

"Now you're really making me want to see Liz naked, if Isabel thinks she's worth shopping for," Michael teased. They both grinned.

"So, Maxwell. Still covered in scratches?" Michael inquired archly. Max reddened.

"Yeah. I—kind of wanted to keep them till I had to get rid of them, you know?"

"Yeah, I know. So…let's see 'em," Michael demanded. Max searched his face, making sure he was serious, then stood up and pulled off his T-shirt, turning so that his back was to Michael. He smirked at Michael's sudden intake of breath, and then sucked in his own breath as Michael's fingertips began to trace the lines crisscrossing his flesh.

Michael trailed his hands along Max's back, following the paths laid out by Liz's nails. Some of them were faint now, their healing sped by Max's hybrid body. A few were deep, their dark red color suggesting their depth. The deeper ones tended to be around the small of his back, and a number of them disappeared underneath Max's jeans.

"She got your butt, too, huh?" Michael said huskily, his hands never ceasing their movements. In answer he heard Max pop open the buttons on his jeans, and bend slightly as he drew his jeans down past his hips to rest at mid-thigh. Michael followed the deeper scratches down onto Max's ass, smiling as he noticed ten small crescent-shaped marks where Liz must have dug into him. He fitted his hands to the marks, marveling at how small her hands were in comparison to his own. Gently Michael applied pressure, parting his cheeks.

Max had closed his eyes as Michael's fingers explored him. The slight pressure against the raw skin mingled a little pain with the pleasure, which only excited him all the more. He shivered as Michael's breath gusted against him then jumped as his tongue licked the newly exposed skin. It was such an intimate gesture. Max's knees started to weaken as Michael licked between his cheeks, feeling exposed somehow in a way that he had not when Michael had sucked his cock. Max trembled as Michael continued licking, using his fingers as leverage to bare more skin.

"Michael," he whispered hoarsely, "I—my knees are going to give out."

Michael chuckled and drew back, letting Max turn around to face him. His eyes automatically went to Max's cock, jutting out practically at Michael's eye level. He stared at it for a moment then looked up at Max, seeing the naked hunger in his eyes.

Max kicked off his jeans and dropped to his knees, moving in between Michael's legs to kiss him. His tongue snaked into Michael's mouth and his hands slipped into his hair as if Max were trying to merge with him. Michael welcomed the onslaught, knowing that he had provoked this level of urgency in Max and feeling a surge of triumph at his response. Max moved ever closer until their torsos were pressed together, his hard cock pushing against Michael's groin. He thrust slightly, the motion rubbing their erections together, and both men groaned at the contact.

Michael reached around Max and continued his intimate caressing. His hands slid against Max's ass, pulling him farther apart. He slipped his index finger along Max's sensitive skin, reveling in the throaty sounds Max was making. He felt like smooth satin almost everywhere, until Michael's fingers wandered farther down to a texture more like raw silk. He felt Max gasp into his mouth, and suddenly Michael was being dragged forward, falling on top of Max as he pulled them both onto the floor.

"Michael," Max rasped against his lips, "I need you—now." He pulled Michael's hands out from underneath him, placing them on his rigid cock. Michael immediately started stroking him, knowing that Max was extremely close to the edge. He moved down Max's body and sucked on just the tip of Max's cock as his hands worked the shaft. Within minutes Max stiffened and came with a strangled cry, his hands scrabbling at the carpet in a vain attempt to hold onto something. Michael gulped quickly, finding it a little more difficult when gravity was against him. Max shuddered in release, then quieted. Michael moved up to lie beside him, smiling at the rueful look on Max's face.

"Do not apologize; I like driving you nuts," Michael said firmly, watching Max smile.

"OK, it's just…you're not even undressed, for chrissakes! And you were the one who spent the night alone, I should've…ah, forget it. You know what I mean," Max rolled his eyes at himself. Then his expression turned playful and he reached for the buttons on Michael's shirt, undoing them slowly. When his shirt was fully open, Max pulled Michael to his feet as he stood then pushed the shirt off. He knelt in front of Michael, undoing his pants and pulling them, and the rest of his clothes, off. Then Max stood back up and took Michael's hand, leading him into the bedroom.

"Might be nice to make it to the bed for once," Michael joked. He was a little nervous; Max seemed very intense now: focused. Max motioned for Michael to lie down, and he did, looking up at Max curiously.

"Close your eyes, Michael. And keep them closed," Max instructed. Michael obeyed, feeling a shiver of excitement. What was Max up to?

He got a partial answer as he suddenly felt Max's mouth on his nipple, rolling it against his tongue. Max drew back, blowing across his wet skin, watching Michael's nipple contract even further. Michael jumped as Max pinched him, having expected the warmth of his mouth again. Max smiled in satisfaction, and got down to business.

Max placed Michael's arms over his head and spread his legs wide so that he had enough room to move between them without touching Michael. He knelt on the bed between Michael's spread legs, balancing himself so that he could reach any part of Michael's body without shifting enough to give away his destination. Michael felt unbelievably open, but he trusted Max completely. Besides, he also felt intensely excited by the teasing bites and licks, the caresses and the scratches. Max's hands and mouth were everywhere, but somehow never where Michael expected them to be. He didn't think there was anywhere that Max had not touched and turned to fire, until he felt Max simultaneously take his cock in his mouth and slide one lubricated finger inside him.

Michael jerked in shock, an incoherent cry ripping from his throat as Max stroked him carefully in a heartbeat-like counterpoint with his sucking. He lost himself in the acute double pleasure, moving his arms down so that he could grip Max's hair. Max had built his arousal to such a fever pitch before going down on him that it wasn't long before Michael exploded into Max's mouth with another cry.

Max drained him, then moved up to lie even with Michael. He searched Michael's face.

"Was that OK? I know you weren't expecting it, but…" he stopped as Michael nodded fervently. Max half smiled and pulled Michael close for a kiss. They lay together quietly while Michael's breathing returned to normal, Michael pillowing his head on Max's chest.

"Max? What I was going to say earlier? Um, I just—whatever ends up happening with us and Liz, I, uh, want…I…I want my first time to be with you," Michael murmured hesitantly. Max tightened his arms around Michael and kissed the top of his head.

"I—I don't think I'm ready for that yet, Michael, but…I'd like that," he said sincerely. Michael lifted his head to look at Max.

"I'm not either, I just—wanted to be clear about it," he said, moving farther up to kiss him. Their lips clung together tenderly for a moment before Michael snuggled back into Max's chest.

"Have you figured out what to say to Liz yet?" he asked, tracing lazy circles on Max's biceps.

"No. I haven't really had much time to think about it yet, I've either been working or with you or Liz. Or sleeping, though I did little enough of that this weekend," Max chuckled. "But…I do think that I won't say anything for another week or two. Our relationship kind of just changed from, you know, making love, and I'd like to settle into that a little bit before I spring another huge change on her."

"Yeah, that makes sense. Can I still flirt with her?" Michael asked mischievously.

"Flirt away, my friend! As long as I get detailed reports," he laughed. "Seriously, I do want to know if it's just regular flirting, or if it's on-the-line flirting like on your bike. And whether there's any indication that she's willing to take it further."

"OK. I think I can manage that," Michael chuckled. Max sighed and stirred.

"I better go; it's a school night. Otherwise Mom will call looking for me," he rolled his eyes as the phone rang. Michael grinned and went to pick it up.

"Hi, Mrs. Evans. Yes, Max is still here, but he's just leaving. He'll be home in a few minutes. OK, I'll tell him. `Bye," Michael hung up and turned to Max, who was pulling on his clothes.

"She says to stop for milk," he laughed at Max's grimace. He picked up Max's shoes and handed them to him.

"Thanks. I'll see you in school tomorrow," Max said, straightening after slipping on his shoes. He hugged Michael tightly, pressing a light kiss to his lips as he released him, then left. Michael closed the door and wandered back into his bedroom. He noticed a small tube on the floor, and bent to pick it up. K-Y? he thought to himself then read the rest of the label. Michael was suddenly very glad that Max had left already as he realized what the tube contained and blushed a bright red. Oh, lubricant. He put the little tube into the drawer of his bedside table and lay down on the bed, thinking about what it might be like to make love to Max.

Chapter 7

The week flew by, as weeks during the school year are wont to do. Max and Michael saw little of each other outside of school; they had conflicting shifts every single night. The rest of the group breathed a sigh of relief that their forced time together over the weekend had apparently allowed them to clear the air, and now Max and Michael were back to being best friends. Only Alex saw it any differently. He was noticing a certain comfort level with each other that the two men had never shared before, even prior to the revelation that Max was the King of their planet. Alex thought he knew what was going on, but he still wasn't going to say anything to Liz until he was sure. As for Liz, she didn't get to see much of Max either, and for the same reason. So she was doing her level best to drive Michael up the wall.

"Oh!" Liz exclaimed as her order pad fell out of her pocket. She scowled; the cardboard backing was still in her pocket, the stupid thing had fallen apart. Then she realized that as usual, Michael was watching her. Liz carefully positioned herself with her back to Michael, and bent from the waist to pick up the pad. Her short uniform rode up a remarkable amount, actually giving Michael a glimpse of her lavender panties. Liz deliberately straightened up very slowly then turned back to Michael to give him the order.

"Here you go—2 Will Smiths," she announced, trying not to laugh at his dazed expression. Michael recovered quickly, scowling at her, and Liz did laugh. She leaned forward, motioning for Michael to do the same. Discreetly checking to make sure no one else could see, Liz opened her top snap and showed Michael her matching lavender bra. At his swift intake of breath she winked and refastened the snap, then sauntered out onto the floor to continue working. Michael turned to the grill, swearing at the flames that were rising from his moment of inattention. It's not the only thing on fire, he thought ruefully. If Liz kept this up, he was going to have to buy some looser pants to wear to work.

Every chance she got, Liz flashed Michael some skin or brushed against him. She wasn't sure what the hell was up with herself. Several times she had nearly been caught, and she knew it was only a matter of time before Maria noticed. Liz was no longer as worried about how she would feel, though, because Maria had met someone while on the New Age retreat with her mother this past weekend and she couldn't stop gushing about Wayne. It was a good thing, because Liz didn't seem to be able to control herself. Teasing Michael came so very naturally.

Finally it was Friday night. It had been extremely busy all night, and everyone was exhausted by closing time. The staff left one by one until only Michael and Liz remained. Liz wasn't quite finished out front, but she needed to sit down just for a minute, so she went into the back room, standing stock still as soon as she stepped into the room.

Michael was changing in the middle of the room again, in the midst of pulling up his jeans. He looked up as the door swung closed past Liz, narrowly missing her. Michael grimaced.

"Sorry. You were so tired, I thought you'd take a while," he apologized, hastily yanking on his jeans. Not fast enough, because Liz had noticed the tenting of his boxers before they disappeared under the denim. So he was not immune to her flirtations. She approached him playfully.

"Here, let me do that," Liz purred. She pushed his hands away from his jeans. They had a button fly, and Liz slowly fastened each button, starting from the bottom. Michael watched her face the entire time; she watched her hands. Eventually the top button was done up, and Liz ran her hands up Michael's bare chest to his face, lightly tracing his lips with one finger while the other one tugged gently at his long hair. She met his eyes, and Michael could see the desire swirling in her dark gaze. Slowly, giving her time to stop him, Michael took her finger into his mouth. He worked it with his tongue, sucking lightly. Liz's eyelids drooped, her lashes veiling her eyes as her face took on an expression of pleasure. Michael gently grasped her hand, removing her finger from his mouth and sucking its neighbor. He worked his way through all ten digits, savoring the taste of her skin and the way that she looked.

Liz could not believe how erotic it felt to have Michael suck on her fingers. She couldn't recall if Max had ever done it, but she definitely liked it. She shivered as Michael pressed wet kisses in her palm then licked the pulse point on her wrist. She was sure that he would be able to feel its hammering.

She was right. Michael could practically hear the blood pounding through Liz's veins as his tongue delicately traced her wrist. He thought briefly about kissing her, but somehow he knew that it would be going too far right now. Michael picked up her other hand and repeated his actions, kissing her palm and wrist. Then he tugged on her hand, pulling her to him and enfolding her in a tight hug. He loosened her ponytail, removing the elastic and letting her hair fall free so he could run his fingers through it.

Liz pressed her face to Michael's chest, listening to his rapid heartbeat. She smiled when he began stroking her hair; it was such a Maxlike gesture. It occurred to her that that should make her feel guilty, but it was just the opposite: somehow it felt more like this was something of which Max would approve. Liz had no idea why that would be so, but she had always trusted her intuition and she wasn't going to quit now. Especially when this felt so good.

"Your hair is so beautiful," Michael murmured. He couldn't believe that she was actually in his arms, apparently content to be there. It felt like she belonged there. He heard a muffled giggle. "What?"

Liz pulled away a little and looked at him, grinning. "You and Max are two of a kind, that's all. He has a thing for my hair, too." She ran her hands over his chest then quickly squeezed him before stepping back. "I'd better finish cleaning up out front. I was just going to sit for a sec before, but I kind of feel refreshed now," she teased. Liz rose up on her toes and kissed Michael's cheek, then went back into the café. Michael stared after her, not quite sure what had just happened between them but feeling pretty good about it. He couldn't wait to tell Max.

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

Saturday was the designated shopping day. Liz was pleasantly surprised to find that Isabel was actually a fun shopping companion. She not only knew where all the best stores were, she often managed to sweet-talk the salespeople into giving them discounts or added extras. She was also sensitive to Liz's preferences. Isabel was trying to update Liz's look, not turn her into someone else. The only area where they clashed was leather. Isabel wanted Liz to at least try some on, and she kept refusing. Finally, Isabel brought her one item that made Liz raise her eyebrows in surprise.

"I would not wear that in public," Liz declared. She was further surprised when Isabel grinned at her.

"I didn't mean for you to wear it in public," Isabel said conspiratorially. Liz's eyebrows rose even higher, then she took the garment into the changing room and tried it on. It fit perfectly, and she couldn't believe what it did for her. Hesitantly, she let Isabel into the room to see—there was NO way she was coming out wearing it!

Isabel looked her over carefully then smiled in satisfaction. "It's perfect. And these go with it," she held up the rest of the ensemble. Liz's eyes widened and Isabel laughed. "Trust me."

In the end, she did, and Liz went home loaded down with a ton of new clothes and one very special black leather ensemble that was going to turn Max into a puddle. Once she actually worked up the courage to wear it, that is! Isabel helped her carry in her bags and packages. They unpacked everything and laid the items on Liz's bed.

"So, which one should I wear tonight? We're all going out, right?" Liz queried. Isabel looked thoughtful for a moment, then pulled out one outfit and laid it aside. Liz shrugged in acquiescence.

"I had a lot of fun today, Isabel. We should do this again sometime—once I have cash again!" Liz laughed. Isabel smiled warmly.

"Yeah, I had fun too. It's nice to do something with you that isn't life or death," she joked. "But, I've got to get going, it's almost time for dinner. I'll see you tonight. Um…I think you should wear your hair back. Not totally up, just pulled back from your face with a clip or something."

"Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. You must be rubbing off," Liz teased. Both women laughed, then Isabel left Liz to the task of cutting off tags and putting away her new wardrobe.

Later that night, Max, Isabel, Alex and Michael were waiting in the back room for Liz and Maria to come down. They heard giggling from the top of the stairs, and Isabel discreetly positioned herself so she could watch Max. She'd even brought a camera, which she readied covertly. She wasn't disappointed.

Maria came down the stairs first, purposefully blocking Max's view of Liz. The three women had carefully coordinated this so that Isabel could get a stupendous photograph. Once they were about halfway down, Maria moved to the side at Isabel's signal, and Isabel snapped a few photos in quick succession.

Max thought his eyes were going to pop out of his head. For that matter, so did Michael. They were both riveted on the vision floating down the steps, a fact that didn't go unnoticed by Alex. He watched them both, thinking that he would definitely want to see Isabel's photos for more than the amusement factor.

Liz had pulled back the front of her hair with a black clip, leaving a few tendrils to soften her face. The rest hung down her back in a shimmering mahogany fall. She was wearing formfitting black cigarette pants that hung low on her hips and were highlighted by a pewter zipper, complete with a zipper pull shaped like an old-fashioned key. Her deep violet top was a cross between a camisole and a tank, with thin straps that sparkled and a lightly draped neckline that showed some cleavage. It was made of a finely knitted fabric that was almost transparent, allowing near glimpses of her black satin bra. Several inches of her flat tummy were clearly visible between the low pants and the cropped top. She also had on high-heeled black leather boots, and her lips shone from a coat of paler violet lipgloss.

Max had more or less recovered by the time Liz reached him, though his expression was still a bit dazed. She smiled and linked her arm through his.

"Ready to go?" she inquired. He leaned close and whispered in her ear.

"In all senses of the word," his breath gusted across her ear and Liz felt a shiver of desire. She looked up at him and winked. Max felt his blood run hot at her saucy mood.

"So where are we going anyway?" Michael asked. He was still mesmerized by Liz, but he was trying not to show it. They were in a big group tonight in any case; he doubted they'd get a chance to do any more teasing, especially with Max there. Which meant no teasing or anything between him and Max, either. Michael had thought that would put him in a bad mood, but he was agreeably surprised to find that he was looking forward to seeing Max and Liz together.

"We are going to a party. I have covered for all of us, because we're going to be quite late. It's a parentless party, at Tommy Hoag's," Isabel announced. Maria did a double take.

"It's that party? Jeez, Isabel, do you think that's a good idea?" she exclaimed. Max and Michael exchanged glances; they didn't know what she was talking about. Alex and Liz did, though.

"We'll be fine as long as you guys are really careful about what you drink. There'll be a lot of alcohol floating around. But aside from that, Tommy's parties are legendary. I always had fun," Liz shrugged. The three aliens looked at her in surprise and she laughed.

"I dated Kyle, remember? I went to all of those things," she explained. "There's dancing, card games—usually for money, talking, whatever. He's got a pool and a hot tub, and those are usually pretty busy, and by the end of the night are generally clothing optional. So yeah, you can get into a lot of trouble if that's what you're looking for, but you can also just have a good time. I never got bothered about not drinking."

"Except that once," Maria reminded her, and Liz shot her a glare. Maria giggled and held up her hands in surrender.

"Yes, except once, and you are under pain of death not to talk about it! So, if we're all ready, then let's go. Kyle and Tess are probably already there," Liz said breezily. She dragged Max along with her, and they led the way out to the Jeep. Michael stopped and looked at the other five.

"I'll just take my bike. No sense in all of us cramming in there," he declared. Liz looked at Max, seeing a faint smile on his lips as he discerned her wish. He nodded ever so slightly.

"I'll go with Michael; even five's a crowd in the Jeep," Liz offered. Isabel and Maria shrugged their assent and climbed in the Jeep along with Max. Alex gave Liz a questioning look, and she grinned at him. He looked heavenward and got into the Jeep with the others.

"Isabel, where're we going exactly?" Michael called over the Jeep's engine. She called back the directions and he nodded. They watched Max drive off, then Michael handed Liz a helmet. He was about to put his own on, when she laid a hand on his arm.

"Michael. I don't know what's going on yet, and I don't know what kind of arrangement you and Max have in place. But I have been wanting to do this all week," she said huskily, her eyes gleaming in the darkness. Michael stopped breathing as she leaned in, pressing a featherlight kiss to his mouth. Her tongue softly licked at his parted lips, then she drew back, smiling.

"Shall we?" Liz inquired archly. Michael stared at her dumbly, still focused on the feel of her tongue on his lips.

"Shall we what?" he repeated her question, and Liz's smile widened.

"Shall we go to the party?"

Michael shook off his daze and smiled back. "Yeah, sure. Let's go, Liz Parker." He jammed the helmet onto his head and got on the bike, revving the engine. He felt Liz climb on behind him and wrap her arms around him then he popped the clutch and took off.

They arrived at the party just a couple of minutes after the rest of their friends. Michael stowed the helmets in the Jeep for safekeeping, and the six teens slowly walked up the front steps to the house. Liz went to the front of the group and just opened the door, knowing that no one would be able to hear them knocking. A cacophony of sound and light spilled onto the street from the open door, and they went inside.

A guy in a football jersey came up to them, eyeing Liz up and down. "Hey, Liz. Looking good! You know where everything is."

Liz hid a smile as Max put his arm around her shoulders possessively. She nodded at the guy, who backed off at Max's action, returning to the party. She looked up at Max.

"I can take care of myself, you know. I did know we were coming here when I got dressed," she whispered in his ear. He looked down at her, surprised.

"You did? Why didn't you tell me?"

"Would you have come?"

"Probably not," Max had to admit. "Especially not if I knew you planned on being a spectator sport," he teased. Liz smacked his arm.

"I feel good. And I know damn well I look good, so I just wanted to enjoy it. I am well versed in fending off unwanted advances, you know. Besides, Jeremy's probably circulated it around by now that I brought you with me, and they know better than to mess with you," Liz proclaimed. She saw Max's puzzled look and laughed. "Taken a good look at your arms lately? You could probably beat any of these guys to a pulp. I know, you wouldn't; but they don't know that."

"Oh," was all that Max could reply. He never thought much about his body; as long as it appealed to Liz and Michael and everything worked the way it was supposed to, he was happy. Sure, he worked out a lot, but he needed to be ready for anything, and that included anything physical. Max always put it in terms of function, not aesthetics. Apparently Liz looked at it both ways.

Liz saw how uncomfortable Max was with that idea, so she dropped it, snuggling closer under his arm. "Let's go to the kitchen and get a drink. Just soda or something," she clarified. Max nodded, and they made their way through the throng of partygoers. Once they reached the kitchen, Max asked her where the bathroom was. Liz gave him directions and he kissed her lightly, saying he'd be back in a few minutes. Liz was bent over in the fridge, pulling out bottles of soda, when she heard Kyle and straightened, turning to face him with a smile.

"Liz? Wow! You never looked like that when you came here with me," Kyle teased. They both laughed. "Seriously, you look great. Still you, but…with attitude."

"Oh, thanks Kyle. That's totally what we were going for; it's nice to know it worked," Liz giggled, adding at his puzzled look, "Isabel and I went shopping."

"Ah," Kyle nodded. His eyes were caught by the key-shaped zipper pull and he gestured to it, smirking, "What, is that for your chastity belt?"

"Ha ha. Actually," Liz looked around and lowered her voice, "I don't need one of those anymore." She winked.

"You and Evans…" Kyle trailed off suggestively, and Liz nodded. He leaned in and said quietly, "Nothing quite like sex with an alien."

Liz stared at him, shocked, and then they both laughed. Kyle nodded to the drinks she had poured.

"Max and the others know to watch it, right?" At her nod, he continued. "How about you? Going to stay sober tonight?"

"I haven't made up my mind yet. I'm feeling…dangerous," Liz's eyes sparkled, and Kyle laughed nervously.

"Just be careful, Liz. You don't want to do something you might regret," he warned. Liz raised her eyebrows.

"Kyle, I'm here with Max. Anything that gets done, will be with Max, and there isn't much that we haven't already covered. Can you honestly see anyone here going up against him, especially if I make it clear I'm only interested in him?"

"Good point," Kyle gave in gracefully. "So, Tess is off dancing with Maria and Isabel. Want me to drag Max off to do something while you join them? I know he's not much for dancing!"

Liz narrowed her eyes thoughtfully. "Hmm, he likes to play poker. You guys probably still play, right?"

"Yeah, sure. Uh, he's a good sport, right? I mean, he isn't going to get all pissed if he loses?"

"No, he's a good sport. Although, I highly doubt that he'll lose much. If I were you, I wouldn't play against him," Liz advised with a smile. Kyle nodded. Just then, Max returned to the kitchen.

"I never knew this many people could cram into a house," Max admitted with a smile. He squeezed Liz's shoulders then accepted the glass she handed him. Liz kissed his cheek.

"Max, I'm going to go dance with Maria and the other girls. I know, you don't want to come! That's why you and Kyle are going to go play cards," Liz told him. Max just gave her a look, and she laughed. Liz put one hand to the front of her pants and drew out some money. Max and Kyle both looked at her pants in astonishment.

"I would never have guessed those had room for pockets," Kyle exclaimed. Liz held in her giggles and passed the money to Max.

"They are extremely small pockets, basically just big enough to hold some cash. So, Max, go have fun and I'll see you in an hour or whatever, OK?" Liz pressed her lips to his for a light kiss. Max's hand automatically came up to stroke her hair, and she smiled against his mouth. Liz gave him another quick kiss then bounded off to find her girlfriends. Max looked at Kyle in puzzlement.

"Was she like this when you two were dating? She's in some kind of a mood tonight," he said, scratching behind his ear. Kyle looked at him, torn between sympathy and envy. Once Liz got going, Max wouldn't know what hit him.

"Not exactly. Every so often Liz gets in a, well, it's hard to describe it. Some kind of mood is as good as anything. I'm guessing, though, that if she stays in this kind of mood then you, my friend, will be getting lucky tonight," Kyle smirked at Max's embarrassed look.

"Mentioned that, did she? Thanks for the, ah, warning, Kyle. Let's go play some poker. Liz was right about one thing: I'd much rather play cards than dance!"

Someone wanted to know what Maria was thinking--well, read on! That's covered in this chapter.
hugs, Tas


Chapter 8

The two men joined the game in progress, Kyle having discounted what Liz had told him. An hour and a half later, he was remembering why it was a good idea to always listen to Liz. Max had kicked his and everyone else's ass. That's what happens when your lawyer father teaches you how to play cards.

"Sorry, guys, but that's it for me," Max declared after noticing the time. There were grumbles around the table and Kyle held in a smile, knowing what would come next.

"You can't leave now, Evans! You've got most of our money!" complained Jeremy. "Besides, where d'ya have to go in such a hurry?"

"I need to find Liz," Max said patiently as he gathered his winnings. He separated them into two approximately equal piles.

"Liz Parker? She's your date for tonight?" someone asked. There were a few whistles and comments scattered among the guys gathered in the basement, and someone else muttered, "Yeah, I'd ditch us for her, too!" Max looked up with a faint smile, his gaze sweeping the room.

"No. Liz is my girlfriend," he stated, the tone of his voice leaving no room for doubt as to the exclusivity of their relationship. Kyle had never wanted to laugh so badly in all his life. Not only was Max basically sticking it to everyone, but he was completely oblivious that he was doing so!

Max placed one pile of bills in his pocket and pushed the rest towards Kyle. "Have a good night," he said with an easy smile. Kyle realized that Max knew exactly what he was doing, and he nodded, accepting the money. After all, the other guys at least had a chance to win some back this way. It was more than Kyle would have done.

While Max was busy showing up the jocks, Liz was busy getting down with her friends. She'd had two drinks and was on her third when she decided that now was a good time to talk to Maria. Liz grabbed her friend's hand and dragged her off to a relatively quiet corner, where they could talk in private. Maria knew that Liz had been drinking, so she let herself be dragged. She was not, however, prepared for what she was about to hear.

"Maria, would you be upset if Michael got into another relationship? Like, a serious relationship?" Liz started off innocuously enough.

"Why would I be upset? Liz, Michael and I are just friends. You know I don't feel that way about him anymore," Maria said.

"Well, yeah, but…what if I do?" Liz asked wide-eyed.

"What happened to Max? You know, your soul mate, the guy you've been in love with for years, the one you just lost your virginity to?" Maria spluttered, keeping her voice low though she ached to yell the words.

"Nothing! All of those things are still true. But…well, here's what's been happening," Liz whispered. She explained the entire situation to her best friend, not noticing her increasing amusement. Liz concluded with, "You can talk to Alex about it. He's helping; I told him all this the morning after we had sex. Not me and Alex, him and Iz and me and Max. And not all together either, that's icky," she made a face.

Maria reined in her giggles long enough to ask her a serious question. "Liz, you and Max have a pretty special relationship. Do you honestly think there's room for Michael in there? All right, all right," she laughed at Liz's emphatic nodding. "I know from experience that I'd better not ask you a question when you've been drinking if I don't want a brutally truthful answer, so obviously you do think this can work somehow and you do have feelings for Michael."

Maria paused, running her fingers through her hair. She looked speculatively at Liz. "You said that Max seemed to approve of all the borderline flirting between you and Michael, right? So, here's what you need to do. Force the issue in front of Max. Get the two of them alone somewhere and kiss Michael. Then, see what shakes loose. Either Max will freak because he only wanted you guys to flirt, or he'll—join in," she shook her head. "Liz, how the hell do you keep getting yourself in these bizarre situations? I'm getting jealous just thinking about the mind-shattering orgasm your life is going to turn into if you make this work!"

"Well, you could…no, I don't want to share Max with another girl. I can share him with Michael, but…sorry, Maria," Liz apologized.

Maria patted her hand. "That's OK, hon, Max isn't the Evans I find attractive anyway."

Liz sat straight up from her position slumped against the wall. "Oooh, you like Isabel? She's gorgeous naked, you know. She doesn't even sag! I was so pissed off!"

"Give her another fifteen or twenty years," Maria laughed. "Us small-breasted women will have our revenge then!"

"Max likes my breasts the way they are," Liz declared, cupping her breasts for a moment. Maria was having a really hard time not giving into the wicked case of the giggles that was threatening. Liz hadn't had that much to drink, but with the mood she'd been in and her general euphoria…she was a riot. Maria knew that Liz could also get herself into trouble if she wasn't careful. She resolved to look out for her friend tonight.

"I'm sure he does, but I do not need details, Liz! I," she fell silent as a snippet of conversation drifted to their ears.

"I've never seen Max Evans at one of these parties before. I wonder who brought him?"

"Who cares? I'm more interested in who's going to be going home with him! Or upstairs, at least."

Maria restrained Liz, who was shaking in fury and muttering about the benefits of a right hook. She whispered in her friend's ear, "Go find Max and get him to dance. I'll tell the guy minding the stereo to put on a slow song, and you show these chicks that they better keep their hands off!"

Liz shook off Maria's hands and caught her in a crushing hug. "That is a great idea! He's not going to want to dance, but he will if he expects to get in my pants again!" She winked and ran off, and Maria finally started to giggle as she made her way to the stereo. Once she had made her request, she went to find Isabel, to tell her to have that camera ready.

Max had been searching for Liz for a little while when she suddenly appeared, grabbing his hand and dragging him into the large living room. The music changed as they entered the room; the song was slow, but with a heavy, seductive beat. Other couples were beginning to dance in the cleared area at one end of the room, and Liz tugged Max over there. Since it was a slow song, he didn't make any objections, merely taking her into his arms when she'd found the spot where she wanted to dance.

They swayed together in time to the music. It was the kind of song that you want to play loud, so the bass rumbles through your body and the singer's voice skitters down your spine. Max recognized the song as being sung by one of Michael's favorite bands, Staind. He brought their clasped hands closer, eliminating the space between their bodies as they danced. Liz tucked her face into his shoulder, her arm slipping around his neck as he bent his head close to her hair. She smelled so good. Almost as good as she felt, molded against him. His free hand stroked the bare skin at the small of her back, and he smiled as Liz sighed.

Max listened to the lyrics dreamily, caught up in the feel of Liz in his arms. His smile widened as he heard a particular verse, "It's been a while, since I've seen the way the candles light your face / And it's been a while, but I can still remember just the way you taste." He pulled back enough to look at Liz, whispering, "It's been too long."

Liz looked into his eyes, knowing he was talking about their lovemaking. She whispered back, "We'll have to see about the candles later, but you can taste me now."

His eyes darkened at her words, and his head lowered those final inches to her lips. He released her hand to cup her face, his thumb stroking her cheekbone tenderly as her mouth opened to him. Max swept his tongue into her mouth, sliding against hers and exploring her textures. Liz moved her freed hand to join her other hand around his neck, holding on for dear life as Max tightened his arm around her waist, spreading his large hand flat against her bare skin. The feel of his fingers inching under the hem of her top inflamed her, and Liz moaned softly.

The sound woke Max to their surroundings, and he gently pulled away from Liz, darting his eyes from side to side as she pouted. Liz caught on immediately and blushed. Then she raised her chin and smiled, surprising Max.

"What's up?" he said quietly. Liz's smile widened.

"Well, I wanted to dance with you to, um, establish property lines, so to speak?" she said a little sheepishly.

"What, for me?" he asked incredulously. Liz nodded and he laughed.

"I suppose that's worth some embarrassment," he teased her. Liz wrinkled her nose at him, and Max smiled as he slung an arm around her shoulders.

"Come on, let's go find the others."

They did not have far to go, as Isabel had been snapping photos while Maria and Alex looked on. Kyle and Tess were nowhere to be seen. Maria said that she thought Michael was out by the pool; maybe someone should check on him.

"Why don't you go, and I'll be out in a sec? I lost my soda. I'm just going to get another one. Want something?" Liz asked Max.

"Yeah, bring me whatever," he nodded. "See you in a few." Max kissed her lingeringly and went out the patio doors.

"So, I'd say it worked," Maria told Liz. "I have heard more than a few sighs and catty comments directed your way after that display!"

"We were just supposed to dance. Max got other ideas," Liz said flippantly. Isabel laughed.

"Oh, no, you don't! I saw him kiss you after you said something to him! I expect to have some very nice Kodak moments on this film," she tapped her camera meaningfully, and Liz blushed.

"Yeah, well. Alex, wanna come to the kitchen with me?" Liz asked brightly. He shrugged and followed her, helpfully passing her a couple of clean glasses.

"I told Maria, so you can talk to her about it now. She's fine with it," Liz declared quietly while she poured Max a cherry cola and herself a ginger ale. She ignored Alex's snort as she added a generous measure of whiskey to her ginger ale.

"Alex, I am not drunk, and I am not getting drunk. I'm merely having some fun," she remarked.

"Whatever, Parker. I know you're not drunk, you're still on your feet. Anyway, what happened with Michael on the way over?"

"Well, before we got on the bike, I kissed him. Just a little kiss, not a kiss kiss. Then it was pretty much normal. Oh, and before I kissed him I said I didn't know what kind of arrangement he and Max had, but I knew they had one. And by the way, you can stop shaking your head at me. I'm tired of being the responsible one. Let someone else do it for a change," Liz said petulantly. Alex laughed and hugged her.

"All right, one more question. Since you're so hellbent on having a good time, in front of the entire party even, do you have condoms on you? Either of you," he added, speaking very quietly. Liz shook her head.

"Don't need 'em anymore, I've been on the pill long enough now. So you can quit worrying about me, I'm fine. Though I do expect I'll get a lecture from Max when he finds out I've been drinking," she giggled.

"Max doesn't know. Oh, great. You are so on your own with that one, Liz! Come on, let's get you out to the pool," Alex hurried after her; she took off like a shot as soon as the words were out of his mouth. He grabbed the drinks she had poured and forgotten in her haste.

Michael was, indeed, out by the pool. He had seen Max and Liz dance through the French doors and he found himself smiling at the way they had gotten carried away. It had only been just over a week since this entire situation had been born, and already he wasn't sure where one of them ended and the other began. He only knew he loved them both. Well, and that Liz was going to drive him around the bend very quickly if they didn't figure this out. Michael felt a soft touch on his shoulder and turned.

"Hey. We were wondering where you'd gone to," Max said, smiling. Michael smiled back and gestured to the living room.

"Nice little display there. Which one of you was the target?"

"You saw that? Liz said, and I quote, that she was "Establishing property lines." She is in one crazy mood tonight," Max told him. Michael looked around to make sure no one else could hear.

"Before we came over here, Maxwell, she kissed me. And she said that she knew we had some kind of deal in place about her, she just didn't know what yet," he watched Max intently.

"Are you serious? That's awesome!" Max was about to say more when he staggered backwards, catching a flying Liz. She wrapped her arms and legs around him as he caught her, then licked his lips with one quick swipe of her tongue. Max just looked at her, stunned, as she let go and stood on her own. His eyes flickered to Michael as if to say, See what I mean? Michael couldn't conceal a grin.

"Hey, Liz. You seem to be in a good mood," Michael teased her. Liz turned to him and gave him a hug, squeezing hard. She stepped back as Alex appeared. Divining her intention, Alex handed the two glasses to Michael as Liz launched herself at him. He caught her more easily than Max had, but then he'd had the benefit of experience. Liz squeezed him tight, then dragged him over to Max and Michael and crowded the three men around her.

"My guys," she sighed in contentment, not caring that they were all openly laughing at her. She poked Alex. "Except you'd better go find your other half. She's probably run out of film and is dying of boredom now," Liz giggled. Alex nodded, still smiling, and she hugged him again, holding on tight until he called out.

"Ah, Michael, no!"

Liz immediately let go and spun around, just in time to see Michael down a sizeable amount of her ginger ale.

"Oh, fuck," she swore, prompting Max to stare at her. "Max, that was spiked."

Sure enough, Michael was coughing and spluttering. He almost took another swallow before Alex took the glass from him. Michael gulped down the cherry cola instead, looking dazed.

"Is that why you've been acting so nuts? Because you were drinking?" Max asked in disbelief. Alex set him straight.

"It's the other way around, Max. She hasn't had much, she's just—in a mood. Um," Alex debated about how much to warn his friend. He leaned in close. "Listen, Liz can get, how shall I say it? Frisky? When she's in this kind of mood. So you know, she told me that her pills are effective now, so you don't need to worry about, you know."

Max looked at Alex, narrowing his eyes. "Why do I get the feeling there's something that you're not telling me? Does she get these moods often? Because Kyle said something about it, too."

"No, not often, but I have been friends with her for more than six years, Max. It's just that every now and again, she gets fed up with being Miss Responsible and lets it all out. Usually it's in a more, um, private venue, like with just me and Maria, but I don't know what got into her this time. Maybe it was the clothes, who knows?"

"I can understand where she's coming from, that's for sure," Max watched Liz lead Michael to a chair, sitting him down. He was still coughing a little, and Max sighed.

"Is there somewhere we can put him for a few hours, where he won't be disturbed?"

Liz overheard and came over. "Yeah, there's like half a dozen bedrooms upstairs, most of which lock. Let's drag him up there." Max looked sharply at Alex, who held up his hands.

"That had nothing to do with me," he defended himself. Max resolved to ask Liz a few questions once they were upstairs. He motioned to Alex.

"Come on, help me get him up." They got Michael to his feet, and then half-carried him inside and up the stairs, with Liz trailing them. No one even asked; it was hardly uncommon for someone to get so drunk their friends had to carry them at this party. In fact, it was pretty much expected.

They got upstairs and Liz slipped past the three men, opening the far left door. "This one has a lock," she reported after checking the knob. Max and Alex dragged Michael in and carefully laid him on the bed. Max stood watching him while Alex stepped outside with Liz.

"Liz, be careful, OK? I don't think now is the time to force the issue. Not while Michael's drunk; he might regret it when he sobers up," he said seriously. Liz nodded.

"Yeah, I know. I'll be good. Go, have fun with Isabel," she shooed him away. Alex studied her face for a moment then concluded that Max had a better chance of controlling her anyway. He kissed her cheek and headed back downstairs as Liz entered the bedroom, closing and locking the door behind her. She turned on the lamps on the dresser by the door, preferring their faint light to the harsh overhead light.

Max marveled at the supreme irony of the situation. Here he was, in a locked bedroom with the two people he wanted more than anything, and all kinds of free time in which to do anything and everything, and they were both drunk. Meaning that he wouldn't be doing a damn thing.

There was an armchair off to one side of the room. Max figured it must be the master bedroom suite since there was a door that seemed to lead to a bathroom. He was proven right when Liz said, "I'm just going to use the bathroom; I'll be right back," and disappeared through that door. She returned a few minutes later to find Max had dragged the chair over beside the bed and was sprawled in it. Michael sat up as he caught sight of Liz.

"Liz! Come sit with me," he invited, patting the bedspread in front of him. Liz carefully climbed onto the bed, sitting cross-legged where he had indicated. Michael leaned closer, putting his face to her hair.

"You smell like strawberries, did you know that?" he said. He settled her back against him, continuing to smell her hair. Liz giggled and looked at Max.

Max could not help but smile at Michael's childlike behavior. Had he been that cute when Kyle got him drunk? Liz correctly interpreted his smile and she laughed, throwing back her head. Michael was not balanced enough to compensate and he went down, lying flat on his back with a stupefied look.

"Yes, you were just as cute. I—it just hurt that you didn't remember what you said or did, that's all," Liz told Max. She lowered her eyelashes, looking at him through a veil of black.

"Wanna come play?" she invited. Max groaned inwardly. Liz was right, being the responsible one definitely sucked at times. Unfortunately, it was all on him tonight, since neither Liz nor Michael were in complete control of themselves. He came over and sat beside Liz, stroking her loose tendrils of hair back from her face.

"I don't think that's such a good idea tonight, Liz. Something might happen that you would regret later," he said softly. Liz nodded, sighing in agreement. Then her eyes glinted dangerously.

"Max…lie down," she ordered, pointing to the bed beside Michael. Max stared at her.

"What?" he asked. Liz stared him down and he moved over, lying flat beside Michael. Michael turned his head towards Max.

"I love you, Maxwell," he slurred, his voice thick. Max smiled and Liz giggled, still sitting between them. As if the sound had caught his attention, Michael turned his head back to look at Liz.

"I love you, Liz."

"Oh, Lord, he's an "I love you" drunk," Liz laughed. She patted Michael's hand and he smiled beatifically. She laughed again then heard what song was playing. The bass thumped through the house, and Liz jumped off the bed with a squeal, dancing around the room in abandon.

Max and Michael both propped themselves up, watching her avidly as she twirled and bent, hips moving to the heavy beat. The little key on her zipper swung, catching the light and drawing their eyes. Liz noticed the way they were watching her and her movements became more provocative. She twisted her hips in time with the music, circling them as her arms waved above her head. She brought them down as she slowly turned in a half circle so that her back was to her audience of two.

Liz never stopped moving her hips as she bent forward, placing her palms flat on the ground and looking through her legs at Max and Michael. She nearly spoiled the effect by laughing at their dumbfounded expressions, but managed to hold it in as she slowly stood back up and turned towards them. Her hands splayed against her gyrating hips, then smoothly slid upwards, following her curves. She cupped her breasts, remembering what she had said to Maria, and smiled at the hungry way both men were looking at her. Feeling incredibly daring, Liz pinched her nipples. They hardened instantly and she continued to play with them until her arousal was clearly visible to Max and Michael from the way the knitted fabric of her top clung to the hard tips.

Liz was lost in her own little sensual world now, and she slid her hands back down, across her bared stomach to the little key dangling from her pants zipper. Her hips still swaying from side to side, Liz took hold of the key and pulled down the zipper in small increments, seeing the way both men held their breath. She held her hand in front of her skin as she revealed it, until the zipper was all the way down. Because it was meant to be decorative, this zipper actually went almost all the way to the seam line of the crotch of the pants. Liz looked at Max as her hands moved to the side, holding the parted fabric.

Max expelled his breath in a sharp hiss; Liz wasn't wearing anything under those lowslung pants. If he had known that…he glanced at Michael, who was equally entranced, his gaze fixed on Liz. Max saw Michael's jaw drop and he quickly looked back at Liz, only to find his own jaw dropping.

Liz had pulled off her top, and her nipples pushed against the black satin of her bra. But that wasn't the shocking part. The shocking part was that Liz's small hand was slipping into her open pants. Max snapped himself out of the sensual haze she was creating and stood up, picking Liz up and sitting her in the chair. He was about to zip her pants up when she took his hands and placed them on her breasts, looking at him intently.

"You said when we got here that I was dressed to be a spectator sport. I know you were joking, but the thought stayed with me. I want you, Max," she murmured huskily. Max felt his knees weaken at what her eyes were telling him. She was not drunk; she was serious.

"With Michael watching?" Max got out, his voice cracking. Liz nodded, her eyes never leaving his. Max was floored, and she saw it in his face. She leaned forward, pressing a kiss to his lips.

"Move out of the way," Liz instructed. Max was dazed enough to do so. It did occur to him to check that the door was in fact locked, which he rose to his feet and did. When he turned around, Liz was on the bed, whispering into Michael's ear. His eyes were the size of saucers, and Max smiled.

"You want me to watch. While you and Max…" Michael couldn't even form the words as Liz breathed an affirmative. Suddenly he smiled mischievously.

"How closely?" he asked, his eyes sparkling. Liz looked at him quizzically; she didn't get it.

"How closely do you want me to watch? Like from the chair over on the other side of the room, or what?" Michael asked, figuring that he knew the answer. He was so wrong.

Liz smiled slowly, knowing what he expected the answer to be. Knowing that Max probably expected the same. She leaned closer to Michael until her lips were mere millimeters from his, staring into his eyes.

"As close as this, if you want," she murmured, feeling a thrill run through her at the way his eyes widened. Max came up beside her, placing a hand on her shoulder.

"Are you sure about this?" he asked, wanting to be certain. Liz looked up at him, smiling.

"Let's do it," she said decisively, seeing the desire flare in his amber eyes. Max looked at Michael, seeing the same desire in his eyes. Silently he asked if Michael was OK with this turn of events. Michael snorted.

"Max, you're an idiot. Am I OK with having a fantasy come to life in front of my eyes? Um, yeah, I think I'll manage," he laughed. Liz whipped her head around to look at Michael; she hadn't suspected that.

"Really?" she asked. Michael smiled at her.

"Absolutely. I'll just—get out of the way," he grunted as he clambered off the bed to sit in the armchair. Max sat down on the bed, suddenly feeling nervous.

"Um, what—where do you want to start?" he asked hesitantly. Liz smiled.

"Why don't we get undressed," she said softly. In answer Max pulled off his shirt, tossing it on the floor, then stood to remove the rest of his clothes. Both Liz and Michael watched as his bronze skin gradually emerged. Then Max pulled Liz to her feet. He unsnapped her bra and removed it, then slid her pants down her thighs. Liz sat on the bed so that he could pull them all the way off, revealing her black knee high leather boots. She smiled at the look on his face.

"Another time," she murmured. "Tonight I want to feel all of you."

Max tugged off her boots then Liz stood up and moved in front of Michael, turning slowly. When she faced him again, he looked up at her and smiled. Liz leaned close, pressing a quick kiss to his lips.

"Michael, don't feel shy if you want to, you know, look after yourself," she said seriously. She noticed that his eyes darkened in desire, similar to Max's, then she came back to Max on the bed. He looked like he wasn't quite sure what to do. Liz realized that she would have to work him into a frenzy, make his instincts take over and obliterate his nerves.

She started with a kiss.

Carol000 wrote:You have such a way of making this funny, romantic, and erotic all at once. What a perfect combo!

Thanks, Carol! That's the exact niche I aim for.

Okay, on with the, um, action LOL!
hugs, Tas


Chapter 9

Max closed his eyes as Liz covered his lips with her own, her tongue seeking entrance. She moved forward as he opened his mouth, forcing him to lie flat underneath her. Her tongue slipped in to twine with his and her hands wandered up and down his sides and as much of his chest as she could reach without lifting up. Max suddenly remembered what Alex had said about her pills. He gripped Liz's hips, settling her wet heat against his erection. They didn't need to be careful about the contact anymore.

Liz moaned as he positioned her, her fingers curling automatically and digging into Max's flesh. She wriggled deliberately, delighting in the soft groan her movements elicited and in the feel of him. Her lips left his and wandered across his cheek and down his neck. Liz licked the hollow of his throat, feeling his pulse on her tongue, then kissed her way around the side of his neck. She bit his earlobe and sucked away the minor sting before bathing the outer shell of his ear with her tongue. Licking it thoroughly, she moved over to his other ear and repeated her actions.

Max's hands roamed ceaselessly, charting every inch of Liz's body. As she moved over to the other side of his neck, he slipped his hands in between their bodies and cupped her breasts, kneading them gently. Her nipples grew even harder, pressed into his palms. Max continued to play with them as Liz moved her seeking tongue farther down, sliding her body to one side as she shifted. He made a sound of loss, which quickly changed into a sharp breath as Liz's hand closed around his cock.

Michael watched intently as she stroked Max's cock. Her hands were so small. He had never really noticed her tininess before, but when contrasted with Max's muscular body she seemed very petite. Not fragile, though. Michael couldn't think of a stronger woman than Liz. His lips parted as Liz continued to kiss a trail down Max's body, pausing to gently bite his nipples before following the path of her hand and taking the tip of his cock in her mouth.

Max groaned, his hands reaching for her hair once her breasts were out of reach. He pulled it all to one side to allow Michael a clear view, but kept his hands clenched around fistfuls of its silky strands. His hips thrust a little as Liz sucked more of him into her mouth. He could feel her tongue pressed against the large vein that ran along the bottom of his cock as she increased her suction. Max turned his head to the side, seeking Michael's face. He smiled raggedly at his complete focus on Liz's mouth.

Michael caught Max looking at him from the corner of his eye, and his gaze shifted to meet Max's. Deliberately, Michael licked his lips and Max closed his eyes at the surge of desire that swept through him. He opened them to stare at Michael then nodded purposefully at Michael's groin. Michael made a quick hand gesture and Max smiled. His smile dissolved into another groan as Liz snaked her hand between his legs and caressed his ass. Michael let out a soft groan as well at the expression on Max's face, and he moved to do as Max had indicated, hastily stripping to his boxers and slipping his hand inside to stroke himself.

Max tugged on Liz's hair, pulling her mouth away from him. Liz knew she had gotten to him the way that she had wanted to when he pulled her up to him, his hands still clutching her hair, and kissed her savagely, thrusting his tongue into her open mouth. Max tumbled Liz onto her back, his hands finally unclenching and heading unerringly for her breasts as he moved over her, twisting her legs apart with his hip and settling in between them. His tongue explored every little corner of her mouth, rubbing against the inner surface of her lips and dancing with her tongue as his fingers plucked at her nipples. Max rolled her tight peaks in his forefinger and thumb, occasionally pinching a little harder. Liz's hips were circling now, trying to ease the ache he had invoked by pressing against Max's taut abdomen, but he would not let her, holding himself that tiny bit apart.

Max moved his hands to clasp Liz's, placing their clasped hands above her head. Then he left her mouth and licked his way down to her chest. He trailed his tongue around her breasts in a figure eight then circled each breast separately, the wet circles growing increasingly smaller until he was following the outline of her areola. Maddeningly, he did not touch either nipple. Liz's little gasps were becoming audible to Michael, who quietly moved the chair right up to the bed.

"Ma-ax," Liz finally pleaded. Immediately Max closed his mouth over one sensitive nipple and Liz moaned, arching her back as he sucked hard. She continued to push into his mouth until she became too sensitive and her back relaxed some. Max was waiting for that subtle signal, and before Liz was even aware that he had stopped his mouth was on her other breast. He sucked at the tight flesh, and then moved up to kiss her lips. Liz returned his kiss hungrily, her tongue darting into his mouth even before his lips made contact with hers. They tasted each other then Max pulled back and whispered at her lips.

"Leave your hands above your head," his voice was husky as he let go of her hands and replaced them on the bed. Liz's eyes drifted open and a tiny sigh escaped her lips at the fire in his amber gaze. She licked her lips unconsciously, riveting Max's eyes to the pink tip of her tongue. His own tongue swept out to lick at hers, meeting in the air. Then he swooped down, plunging his tongue into her mouth for a quick, hard kiss before he slid down her body.

Liz closed her eyes as Max kissed her navel, trailing kisses down to her dark curls. A random thought occurred to her and she opened her eyes, turning to look at Michael. He was maybe two feet away, his legs flung over the arm of the chair, his hand gently rubbing his hard cock under the fabric of his boxers, his eyes fixed on Max's face with an expression of intense curiosity.

"Michael," she murmured. He jerked his eyes to hers and she gasped at the raw desire there. "Michael, I know…you didn't get this far. It's OK if—if you want to come closer," Liz finished in a whisper, not sure where this offer was coming from. She saw the way his eyes widened in surprise and darkened even further, and then he looked at Max.

Max had been startled by her words, but the idea excited him, too. It wasn't quite the same as actually sharing Liz, but it was pretty damn close. He caught the appeal in Michael's eyes and smiled, jerking his head to indicate where Michael should sit. Hesitantly Michael got out of the chair, moving around to the far side of the bed where Max had indicated. He knelt beside Liz's left hip, his knees facing her feet, and twisted to look at her, to make sure. Liz smiled at the mingled emotions in his expression: curiosity, desire, awe…a touch of something else that she was reluctant to identify right now. She nodded slightly.

"You—you guys work this out between you. I, uh, I'm just going to…close my eyes," Liz said throatily as she met Max's eyes, looking up at her from between her legs. One corner of his mouth lifted in a smile she knew and Liz bit her lip, knowing that her notion of being the one in control had just been destroyed. Liz lay her head back down and closed her eyes as Max pressed another kiss to her navel and placed his hands on her inner thighs, close to their junction.

Michael looked at Max, their eyes communicating silently. Michael was not precisely drunk—he'd had very little alcohol—but his inhibitions were lowered considerably. Although the thought crossed his mind that perhaps it was just a natural progression of the rest of this past week. He came to an agreement with Max and placed his hands just outside of Max's on Liz's thighs, sliding them slowly up to her knees and pressing them out and down.

Liz moaned as Michael spread her legs farther apart. She realized that one reason for the placement of his hands was so that she would know that only Max was touching her intimately; Michael would merely watch. She felt Max's hands slide closer to her center, his fingers gently spreading her folds apart and holding her open. Michael leaned over, inadvertently applying more pressure to Liz's knees. Her legs drifted farther down until her knees touched the bed. Michael and Max exchanged a smile, remembering early adolescent conversations about the benefits of gymnastics, and then Michael looked down at Liz.

"God, Liz, you're beautiful!" he breathed. She was glistening in the faint light with moisture, and Michael wanted to see more. He looked at Max, whose lips twitched, then glanced at Liz's face. Her eyes were tightly closed, her lips parted in anticipation of…whatever. She had no idea how this was going to play out, but she was ready for just about anything. Except Michael's next words.

"Hmm…millimeters, right?" he murmured. Liz felt a shock run through her as the pressure against her knees increased, then her hips shifted slightly as something pressed into the bed right in front of her. Max's fingers were still holding her open. Liz was about to open her eyes, the curiosity killing her, when she felt a puff of air against her exposed flesh and realized that Michael's face was nearly touching her. His exhaled breath was warm from his proximity, and it was speeding up, gusting across her wet flesh, making her shiver.

Max watched her face, seeing the way her own breathing sped up. He moved his fingers so that only one hand was spreading her folds. He seemingly withdrew the other hand, only to have Liz jump when he inserted two fingers into her. Michael shifted to give Max a little more room, and Max responded by withdrawing his fingers and thrusting them back into Liz. She moaned, raising her hips a little to meet his hand as Max fingerfucked her right in front of Michael's face.

Michael was fascinated by her responsiveness. The rich pink of her opening begged to be tasted, and the scent of her arousal was making him achingly hard. He licked his lips, noticing that if he were to extend his tongue he could probably touch her. He wouldn't, not now, but…the way that Max's fingers slid into her body with an easy rhythm was making it difficult to resist temptation.

Max withdrew his fingers from Liz, smiling at her whimper of loss. He began to stroke her wet skin, his talented fingers dancing closer and closer to her clitoris. Liz moaned as Max grazed it lightly then continued to dance around, sensitizing every inch of her waiting flesh. She tossed her head at the sensations coursing through her body. Each teasing caress was followed by a puff of air, reminding her that Michael was getting a very up close and personal show, which only served to fan the flames of her arousal. Liz did not have much room to maneuver with her legs spread so wide, but her hips kept moving anyway, trying to force Max to let her come.

Michael watched Max's fingers stroke her, realizing that Max intended to take this all the way. He could hear Liz's harsh breathing; every exhale was a moan. He jumped when Max bit his earlobe.

"She's close now. Do you want to watch her come?" Max breathed into his ear, following the words with a lick. Michael groaned, his eyes fixed on Max's dancing fingers.

"Fuck, yes!" Michael exclaimed, just loud enough for Liz to hear. She felt his exclamation against her skin and knew somehow what he was talking about. It made her head spin with sudden, fierce need.

"Max, oh God Max, now, please, NOW!" Liz begged hoarsely. In answer to them both, Max began to delicately stroke her clitoris, applying only a tiny amount of pressure. Liz writhed under the feathery caresses, calling out, "Max…Max…Max…" repeatedly. He increased the pressure a little, then a little more. As he felt the first minute tremors in her body Max suddenly rubbed hard, triggering her orgasm. Liz stuffed her hand in her mouth as she tried not to scream, her hips bucking against his hand as she trembled everywhere in reaction. Max continued to stroke her lightly as she calmed down, until at last Liz relaxed.

Michael was in awe. He watched her muscles contract at Max's intimate caresses and her beautiful pink skin become ever more drenched. It was all he could do to keep her knees pressed flat when she came; he would never have guessed her legs were that strong. It was an unforgettable experience, and his only regret was that he did not dare taste her. Michael carefully moved up and away, sitting back on his knees and removing his hands. He looked at Max, who also sat up as Liz's eyes fluttered open.

Max knew what Michael had wanted, and respected that he had not done anything about it. Glancing at Liz, Max gently dragged his fingers against her wetness and held out his hand to Michael. It gleamed in the faint light. Michael looked at Liz, then opened his mouth and sucked Max's fingers, licking away every drop of moisture.

Liz watched them, remembering that Michael had sucked on hers the previous night. She noticed that Max had closed his eyes and she smiled; maybe it affected him, too. His eyes drifted open again as Michael finished and they shared a smile, then Michael turned to face Liz, bending over her. He pressed a soft kiss to her lips, whispering, "Thank you." Then he moved off the bed and back into the chair as Max and Liz locked eyes.

Max knelt between her legs, still spread wide open. Liz opened her mouth to say something, and he shook his head firmly. "No, I need you under me, so I can get as deep as possible and touch your soul," Max murmured, the words fueling her desire. As he moved over her he caught her legs with his elbows, bringing them up so that the backs of her knees rested on his biceps. He whispered against her lips, "Don't worry, Liz, Michael can see just fine this way." He kissed her, his tongue demanding entrance, and as Liz opened her mouth to him Max thrust into her, penetrating deeply.

Liz gasped at the suddenness of the intense pleasure. Max withdrew almost completely and drove back into her, his mouth drifting to her neck as Liz arched her head back. She couldn't do much in this position except feel how incredibly deep he was reaching as Max thrust into her forcefully, his fast rhythm quickly erasing everything but the feel of his skin sliding against hers, the flexing of his muscles under her knees. The sound of his groans and incoherent words in her ear, echoing her own gasping moans. Her fingernails scraping across his back, her teeth nipping at his shoulder. They could both feel the tension building and Max lifted his head.

"Liz…Liz, look at me," he whispered raggedly. Liz opened her eyes and her breath caught at the love in his eyes. They raced together over the edge, gazes locked, bodies joined, souls entwined in love as Max exploded into her, Liz's inner muscles clenching around his erection and milking him dry. Their rocking motion slowed and finally stopped, and Max moved one arm at a time to let Liz put her legs down, his eyes never leaving hers as they rested together with Max still buried deep inside her.

Michael felt as if he had witnessed something profound and sacred: an act of love in the purest sense. And while he knew that they had been unaware of his presence, and remained so yet, he didn't feel as though he was excluded exactly. It was impossible to describe what he was feeling, though Michael was conscious that a large part of it was love. The distinction between his feelings for Max and for Liz, already blurred, had disappeared completely tonight.

Liz smiled up at Max, feeling a bone deep contentment that had everything and nothing to do with their lovemaking. Max smiled back as she said quietly, "Do you think Michael's still breathing?"

Michael looked surprised as they both turned their heads to him. Maybe they hadn't been so unaware after all. His voice was husky as he answered her question, "I sound like I've been running a marathon, but yeah, I'm still breathing."

"Michael…come here," Liz invited, and then dropped her eyes to his boxers. "But just you."

Michael searched her eyes as they moved back up to meet his then looked at Max. He gave a tiny shrug as if to say that he was just as baffled and surprised. Michael gulped, then quickly stood up and stripped off his boxers, climbing naked onto the bed. He followed Liz's murmured directions to lie beside them, and then Liz took his hand.

Looking into Michael's eyes, Liz placed his hand on his own cock. Michael had been so caught up in the emotions radiating from Max and Liz as they made love that he had stopped doing anything but watching them, and he was still rock hard.

Liz curled her small hand around Michael's. She was not actually touching anything other than his hand, but it felt intimate all the same. Liz looked at Max, a little unsure about this part, and smiled when he placed his hand over hers, sandwiching it between his and Michael's. Slowly, following Liz's insistent tugs, they began to stroke Michael. As their unison improved they stroked faster, Max's hand squeezing them all tightly around Michael's erection.

Tremors began to shoot through Michael and his head fell back as he moaned. Liz could just barely reach him with her mouth and she kissed his chest, right over his heart. Max lifted up a little as he realized Michael was about to come, using his outside hand position to angle his cock. The slight shift produced friction in a new spot and Michael cried out as his orgasm ripped through him, spurting hot liquid across Liz's belly and breasts.

They continued to stroke, lightly now, until Michael stopped them. Max and Liz both removed their hands from his, and Michael unclenched his fingers from his now-flaccid cock. He looked at Liz, about to apologize for the mess he'd made of her, when she smiled and drew his face to her for a light kiss.

"Don't. Max is too disciplined to do that, and it's something I've wondered about experiencing," she said softly. Michael smiled and they both looked at Max, whose face was a touch rosy. He gave a whole body shrug, and Liz gasped.

"Max, you haven't even pulled out yet, and you're…" she trailed off at his wicked little smile.

"Wanna go again?" he invited, dropping a kiss on her parted lips. Liz was about to answer him when all three of them froze. Someone was knocking on the door.

"Liz?" Maria's voice drifted to them, and they relaxed, knowing that she wouldn't try to come in.

"Yeah?" Liz called back.

"Isabel wants to leave in about fifteen minutes. Is that OK?"

"Yeah, that's fine."

"So, how's your mind?" there was laughter in Maria's voice.

"Ah, half shattered," Liz was grinning.

"Old half or new half?"

"Old!"

"K. See you downstairs," Maria was laughing openly as she walked away, the sound of her giggles fading quickly. Max and Michael both stared at Liz, who was shaking with her own laughter.

"What was that about?" Max asked. Liz just shook her head.

"Girl stuff. Nothing you need to know," she evaded. "Now, will you get off me so I can go fix myself?"

"Yeah. But I'll go one better," Max said as he withdrew. He held a hand over her, evaporating the liquid splashed on her skin. Liz raised her eyebrows and smiled.

"Have I mentioned recently how much I love dating an alien?" she fluttered her eyelashes at him and they all laughed as they got dressed. Liz stepped in front of the door as they were ready to leave, facing the two men.

"I'm not sure yet of the implications of what happened here tonight. Michael, I—I don't even know what to say, except…that you being here was part of what made this so special. I think…well, that we all need to do some thinking, because I, um, I—don't want this to be just a one time thing. I don't—I need to think about this, but I…don't want to lose either of you," she finished in a whisper, looking at Max for some signal that what she was saying was all right with him. That he wasn't disgusted with her for wanting to bring someone else into their unique relationship—especially another man.

Max read her insecurities easily enough and moved forward, enfolding Liz in his arms and murmuring endearments. She relaxed into his embrace, sighing in relief, then pushed herself upright. Max let her go, and she walked up to Michael, looking up at him measuringly.

Michael was completely sober now, even as Liz was. He looked down into her beautiful eyes and watched them drift closed as he lowered his mouth to hers.

It was a languid kiss, their tongues floating together and apart as they tasted each other for the first time. At last they broke, slowly pulling back. They both smiled, Liz a little tentatively, then she blew a kiss at Max and went out the door.

Max and Michael just stared at each other for a long moment. Max pushed the door closed and Michael was in his arms a second later, their lips meeting lovingly. Michael drew back and Max half smiled.

"The only problem is that she's still thinking linearly. It's one thing for her to be in the middle, but…"

"A whole other prospect when you add in our evolved relationship," Max finished the sentence.

"Yeah. And it has to be a circle to work, Max. Tonight was…one of the most incredible experiences in my life, but I can't always be the spectator."

"I know," Max murmured, kissing him lightly. "But it was one hell of a beginning!"

"That it was, Maxwell, that it was. Let's go."

Chapter 10

Max and Michael sat talking in a booth at the Crashdown. They had just finished their food when Liz slid into the booth beside Max.

"Hey," she said brightly, smiling.

"Hey. I thought you had to work tonight; Michael said Karen called in sick," Max put his arm around her shoulder and pulled her close, kissing her temple.

"Oh, she did. Dad decided they could manage anyway, it's not very busy. So, what are you two doing?" Liz asked. Max and Michael exchanged a look.

"Um, we're, uh, going to the movies. Actually, we were just about to leave," Michael said.

"Yeah. You're welcome to come, it's just—we're going to see Tomb Raider. We thought we'd go when you were busy, since I know you don't want to see it," Max said apologetically.

"Ugh. You're right, I don't. I really don't see the appeal," she wrinkled her nose.

"Yeah, well, you wouldn't," Michael smirked. Max laughed. Liz looked back and forth between them, settling on Max.

"It's the leather outfit, right? That does it for you?" she asked in hopeful disbelief.

Max coughed against his fist. "Works for me. Michael?"

"Oh, yeah," he grinned. Liz laughed at them both, outwardly scoffing, but she was thinking to herself, I am so glad I let Isabel talk me into that outfit! Now I just have to arrange somehow to wear it.

"All right then, have fun. I will find something else to do," she declared. She kissed Max and rubbed her foot against Michael's thigh, then slid out of the booth and headed for the back. Max and Michael watched her till she went through the swinging doors then looked at each other.

"You thinking what I'm thinking?" Michael raised his eyebrows meaningfully.

"Liz in tight black leather?" Max asked rhetorically.

"Instant hard-on," Michael groaned. Both men laughed, then paid their bill and left.

The movie theater wasn't very busy, being a full price weeknight. Max steered them to seats about two thirds of the way back, near the side. Michael thought it was a strange place to sit—he usually tried to sit in the center, close to the front—but he went along with it. They settled into their seats, passing the popcorn and setting their shared drink on the floor.

About half an hour into the movie, Max lifted up the chair arm in between them. Michael looked down, puzzled, as Max took the popcorn from him and held it between them with his far hand. Max leaned close.

"Michael…unzip," he whispered. Michael was astonished. He looked around carefully, seeing the same thing that Max had already noticed: no one was beside or behind them; everyone else was near the front. He swallowed and met Max's eyes, noting the devilish little smile.

"Are you serious?" he whispered back. Max's smile grew and he nodded. Slowly, Michael undid his pants, feeling lightheaded with desire and anticipation. Max shifted in his seat to get good leverage, and then his hand crept under the popcorn bag and slipped into Michael's boxers, closing firmly around his cock.

Michael inhaled sharply as Max began to stroke him. He could barely see Max's black-clad arm against his own denim shirt, which was good. It made it less likely that someone would notice. He tried to follow the movie, but as the pleasure increased he watched it without any comprehension of the events on the screen. He jerked as he heard people coming down the aisle close to Max.

Max stilled his hand but did not move it away, trusting to the bag of popcorn to hide its location. The couple was oblivious, not even looking over as they made their way down to their seats. Michael breathed a sigh of relief that quickly changed to a stifled groan as Max returned to stroking him in a fast rhythm, squeezing hard. He closed his eyes as the pressure built to the breaking point, biting back his verbal response as he spurted into Max's hand. Max did a few more strokes then let Michael's limp cock slide from his hand. He waved his hand over Michael's groin, evaporating the moisture, then squeezed his thigh before grabbing a handful of popcorn and letting it tumble into his mouth.

A little shaken still, Michael slowly did his pants back up. He glanced over at Max, noticing the sly smile playing around his lips.

"That's why we're sitting all the way back here, isn't it? You planned that!" Michael hissed. Max looked over and lifted an eyebrow.

"I didn't hear you saying no," was all he replied. Michael flushed and Max's smile deepened as he continued, "Come on, let's watch the rest of the movie. I'll fill you in later on anything you might have missed."

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

Maria bounced into Liz's room, full of energy as usual. She flopped onto the bed beside Liz.

"So, what's up? How come you're not with your boys?" Maria asked. Liz glared at her, and she laughed.

"I know, you haven't really settled anything yet. I did see you and Michael kiss yesterday on your break, though. Major tongue, babe!" Maria giggled at Liz's pink cheeks.

"I'm just getting this weird feeling, you know? Last week I didn't see them at the same time except for school, and I was so focused on that Bio project that I wasn't really paying attention to anything else. But now, I—well, are you getting, like, a vibe between Max and Michael?" Liz asked seriously. Maria was taken aback.

"What, you think they're like more than friends?" she asked.

"I don't know. I—there's something nagging at me. I can't really explain it, but," Liz stopped as her mother's voice floated down the hall.

"Lizzie, Alex is here! I'm just sending him down," Nancy called.

"K, Mom!" Liz called back, just as Alex knocked on her door and entered.

"Hey, Alex. What's up?" Liz asked, moving over to make room for him on the bed. Alex pulled out an envelope of photos.

"Hi, guys. Isabel got her photos back today. I thought you might like to take a look at them," he said as he removed the pictures from the envelope and held them where everyone could see them. They giggled and commented on the various photos, and Alex watched Liz unobtrusively as they neared a particular photo. When he got to it, the laughter and the comments stopped.

"Oh my God, Liz, you were right!" Maria exclaimed. "That is not a "best friends" kind of look."

It was a photograph of Max and Michael looking at each other, after watching Liz come down the stairs before the party. The heat between them fairly oozed from the paper, and Liz was mesmerized by the obvious passion. She kept on staring at the photo as they started to talk.

"So, what did Isabel say when she saw it?" Maria asked.

"Uh, she said it was Liz's department. She also said that she had never seen them like that in the past, so she figures that when they made up last weekend they, you know, really made up," Alex laughed.

"Was she freaked at the idea?" Liz asked.

"Oddly enough, it didn't seem to bother her any. In fact, she made some crack about all those years wasted while Michael was climbing in Max's window," Alex said. They all laughed. Liz traced the lines of each man's face in the photo, her attention still captured by it.

"It would make it more like Max in the middle, not me, wouldn't it," Liz said softly.

"Well, not really, Liz. I mean, you and Michael have something too. It would be more like a circle," Maria declared. "You know, equal give and take. Can I see that for a sec?"

Liz handed her the photo and tapped her fingernail against her teeth, lost in thought.

"You know, I never thought I'd say this but, they look…kind of sexy together," Maria was surprised. "It makes me wonder what they'd look like kissing. Like, I've seen you kiss both of them, I wonder if it would look any different when they kissed each other?"

"Well, I'll grant you that they look kinda cute together, but it doesn't really do anything for me one way or the other. I'm mainly concerned about how you feel, Liz," Alex prodded her.

"That explains the look on Max's face when Michael sucked his fing—holy shit that's what I could taste!" Liz exclaimed, flashing back to Max's kitchen.

"What are you talking about?" Maria inquired.

"The night that Alex and I—got deflowered, Max and Michael disappeared into Max's room for a bit. This was before everyone left and I went on that ride with Michael. Anyway, when they came back I kissed Max and I could taste something familiar, I just…couldn't place it at the time. He must have…well, you know, to Michael," Liz was blushing furiously as she explained. Maria and Alex both had wide eyes.

"That's about all I want to know about that," Alex joked. "Liz, I'm still waiting here."

Liz took the photo back from Maria, studying it intently. The flutters in her stomach and her suddenly sweaty palms told her all that she needed to know.

"It, uh, actually it turns me on," she whispered. She created the mental image of their naked bodies sliding together, Michael's paleness against Max's bronze, and her breath hitched in her throat.

Alex laughed at her. "I think consorting with aliens has done wonders for your open-mindedness, Liz. Then again, I always figured that you'd turn into a total siren once you unlocked your sexuality."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Liz demanded.

"It's a good thing, I swear! It's just that you're a very controlled sort of person, and you had a tendency to control that part of yourself as well. But when you and Max started getting close, it made a complete difference in your attitude. You were more playful, more confident. Sexier. And happier, I might add," Alex explained, smiling at Liz's open mouth.

"Well, thank you! I think," Liz shot at him. Then she smiled shyly, admitting, "Max—does kind of do something to my control."

"Yeah, Isabel does that to mine, too," Alex agreed wryly.

"Must be an Evans thing," Maria laughed.

"So, what do I do? I mean, Max is going to take his time about telling me until he's beyond sure that I'll be fine with it, and I may go crazy and kill them both by that time!" Liz giggled.

"I'd say the same thing I did last time: force the issue. Ask them to kiss or something," Maria suggested. Alex shook his head.

"No, they'd probably just put on an act. You need to catch them, Liz, and then force the issue. You know, I suspected they might be more than friends since the morning after our deflowering, as you so eloquently put it, but I didn't say anything because I wasn't sure. Until I saw that picture," he nodded at Liz's hand.

"Where are they, anyway? I know Michael's off tonight," Maria wanted to know.

"Um, they went to the movies. I was supposed to cover for Karen, so they decided to go see Tomb Raider. I didn't particularly want to go, plus I wanted to talk to you, so here I am!" Liz answered. "But, I'm like thanking Isabel the next time I see her for talking me into that black leather ensemble, because from the way they were talking it should go over really well!"

"What ensemble?" Maria asked. "You didn't tell me about that."

"Yeah, let's see it, Parker," Alex chimed in.

"All right. But I'm just going to show it to you, no modeling sessions," Liz laughed.

"Aw, where's the fun in that? There should be some perks to being a girlfriend!" Alex pouted. He and Maria laughed when Liz glared at him. She opened her lingerie drawer and pulled out the garment, holding it up in front of her and curving it around her body.

"Jeez, Liz, I'd do ya and I'm really not interested in you!" Maria's voice was hushed. Alex didn't speak; he merely gulped, his eyes growing wide. Liz put it back and pulled out the remainder.

"These go with it. Oh, and these," she pulled out something else, displaying the items then replacing them and closing the drawer.

"Liz, babe, they do not have a chance," Maria gloated.

"Oh, I second that!" Alex said breathlessly. Liz and Maria laughed at him. "All you need are boots, and I know you have those. They'll be like, "Angelina who?""

"I know. That's why I let Isabel talk me into it. Well, that and it does amazing things for my cleavage. Maria, you can borrow it some time—after it's been, um, broken in," Liz winked.

"If I ever have the occasion to wear it, I may just take you up on that," Maria giggled. "Shall we look at the rest of the photos now?"

"Yeah, let's do that," Alex agreed. "I don't really need images of the two of you wearing that in my head!"

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

Max and Michael entered Michael's apartment. Michael flicked on the lights as Max sank onto the couch. They both kicked off their shoes and Michael sat beside Max, leaning against him. Max put an arm around his shoulder.

"I still can't believe you did that," Michael chuckled.

"Do you realize that we basically just went on a date? Dinner and a movie, how cliché," Max laughed.

"Well, since I paid thanks to you being broke till payday on Friday, does that mean you're going to put out?" Michael joked. He was surprised when Max gently grasped his chin, tilting his face so that their eyes met. Michael's breath caught at Max's next words.

"I'm ready if you are."