JANUARY 12, 2002*CAST RETURNS TO CRASHDOWN FOR MEETING AFTER FILMING TUESDAY’S EPISODE OF ROSWELL*

Shiri finished changing out of her wardrobe for her character, Liz Parker. Shiri was wearing jeans and a white turtleneck with her black boots. She grabbed her brown leather jacket and then glanced once more in the mirror before leaving her trailer and walking over to the Crashdown. There had been many conflicts among the cast members and she had called the meeting in hopes of relieving some of this tension.

Nick, Majandra, and Brendan sat at a booth near the window while Jason and Katherine sat on the stools near the counter. Jason sighed and then ran his fingers through his hair before blurting out, “Where is Shiri?”

Majandra glanced over at Jason and replied, “I think she’s changing.”

Jason rolled his eyes and then sighed as the bell on the Crashdown door rang. Everyone glanced over at the entrance doors to see Shiri slowly enter the room. She half smiled, “ Hey guys. Listen I just really think we need to work some of these things out.”

Majandra nodded, “ I agree with Shiri. These last few months have been hell on the set and I think things need to change.”

Jason eyed everyone and asked, “ What seems to be the problem, Majandra?”

“ Well for one thing everyone is so hooked on being famous!”

“ You don’t know what you’re talking about. We’ve all gone by the script. None of us write the show.”

“ I know that Katherine threatened to leave the show due to needing more scenes.”

Katherine stood up and shook her head, no. “ Majandra, I only felt that the show should include all of us not just one person.” Katherine then glanced over at Shiri.

Majandra shook her head. “ No you asked if you could have more scenes.”

Jason stood up beside Katherine and yelled, “ Hey you don’t know what you’re talking about. You’re just making this up. Katherine’s right. The show shouldn’t be centered around one person.”

Majandra rolled her eyes, “ I think the show should be based on what the fans want. There the ones who keep us on air. It’s obvious that the first season was favored over the second! Because there was more Max/Liz and M/M.”

Jason looked to the ground and sighed. “ We can’t cancel out the other characters.”

Majandra clenched her jaw. “ Hey why don’t we take a new leap. I mean you and Katherine obviously want more air time, why don’t we have like a Max/Isabel relationship. Hooray for incest.”

Brendan put his hands on Majandra’s shoulders to calm her down. “ Hey knock it off.” Majandra only sighed.

Shiri couldn’t believe what she was seeing! People whom she had grown so close to were saying horrible things. She brought her hands to her head and screamed, catching everyone’s attention. “ Just stop it! All of you! It’s just sick to see all of you acting like this!”

Shiri walked over to Katherine and said, “ Katherine when I met you I thought that you were sweet and poised.”

She then turned to Jason. “ Jason I saw you as being such a gentleman and a caring person.”

Shiri glanced over at Nick and Brendan, “ And you two. I knew you would be a lot of fun.”

Then to Majandra, “ Girl you are my best friend.” Shiri took a few steps back and sighed. “ I don’t even know any of you anymore.”

Shiri felt herself getting sick. She was so disgusted with what her co-stars and friends were saying. Shiri’s bottom lip quivered and she ran out of the Crashdown doors and into the parking lot.

I’M RUNNING OUT OF THE CRASHDOWN AWAY FROM THE ANGER AND CRUEL COMMENTS THAT ARE BEING THROWN AROUND BY MY COSTARS, MY FRIENDS. I CAN’T STAND TO SEE THEM LIKE THAT. SOMETHING HAS HAPPENED TO ALL OF US. THE FAME AND MONEY HAS GOTTEN TO EVERYONE. CHANGING US FROM WHOM WE REALLY ARE. I MISS THEM. I CAN’T TAKE IT AS I FALL ONTO MY KNEES. MY THROAT IS DRY AND I AM CAN FEEL MYSELF GETTING SICK, BUT NOTHING APPEARS. I AM PUKING, NOTHING BUT DRY HEAVES. OH GOD NOW I AM CRYING. WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO ME? WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO US?

MARCH 23, LAST SCENE OF DEPARTURE~

Jonathan Frakes sat back in his director's chair as he observed the actors at work, making sure that the scene played out to perfection.

*SCENE TAKES PLACE*

Max, Liz, Michael, Maria, Isabel and Kyle run away from the chamber, and stand to watch as the chamber disintegrates and a ship shoots out into the sky.

Max (to Liz): I've been really wrong about a lot. But I was right about one thing: To get you into my life, to be around you, to love you.

Maria (to Michael): You opened the door and you came out-- why? (It dawns on her.) You stayed for me.

Isabel: What happens now, Max?

Max: I have to save my son...

*SCENE ENDS*

Jonathan stood up and yelled cut as he clapped his hands. The rest of the camera crew also began clapping. They were all proud of the season and the actors work.

Jason smiled and glanced over at Katherine. " Well we did it. Season two is a wrap and even though the WB cancelled Roswell, UPN grabbed it."

Katherine walked over to him and grabbed his hand.

" Well what do you say we get out of here?"

" Sure."

Shiri stepped down the rocks, carefully seeing how she was wearing black heels. She passed Jason and Katie when she heard someone call her name. Shiri, along with everyone else turned to their right to see Colin running towards them. Shiri smiled and stumbled into his arms. Colin wrapped his arms around Shiri and laughed. " I am going to miss you." Shiri pulled away from Colin.

" Why? What you think because you aren't on Roswell that we won't still see eachother?"

" Yeah your're right."

" Did you just get here?"

" No I stayed after my scene to watch you guys."

Jason and Katherine were walking away from the others when Colin called after them. " Hey Jas! Katie!"

They turned around and smiled. Colin waved them to come back over. They were reluctant at first, but they soon gave. Colin smiled at them and asked, " Hey where are you guys going?"

Katherine held tightly on to Jason's hand and said, " We were going to go get something to eat."

Colin nodded and then suggested, " Why don't we all go get something to eat? I mean it being done with Roswell for this season. Besides I won't get to see you guys much now that I'm dead."

Majandra kept her arm's around Brendan's waist and they walked over to Colin, Shiri, Jason, and Katie.

Jason looked to the ground and then back up at his fellow costars. " Actually that sounds good." He looked over at Katie to make sure she was okay with it. Once he recieved a smile from her they both nodded.

Brendan ran his hands up and down Majandra's back and said, " I hear that Tony's is really good, besides Italian sounds real appetizing."

Nick walked out from behind Shiri and shoved his hands in his pockets. " Yeah I like Tony's."

Colin smiled, " All right then it's settled. I'll see you guys at Tony's in 30 minutes."

Everyone nodded and then began leaving the set all except Shiri. She sat down on a nearby rock and brought her hands to her chin and let out a sigh. So many thoughts and questions ran through her head.

Here I am, finished with the second season of Roswell. I feel so much differently about this season than I did the last. There has been so much tension between me and the other actors and I don't even know why. I don't know how I am going to behr the third season. I find myself not looking forward to work. That can't be right. Why have my friendships with Jason and Katie become nothing? Majandra and Colin were the only ones keeping me going throughout this season. Them and the fans that is. I appreciate all they have done for me and my career. I owe it to them, but now that Colin is gone and Majandra is hung up on Brendan what do I do now? I have to find something to keep me strong. I will find something.

Shiri bit her lip and then slowly stood up while running her hands through her long brown hair. She smiled at the remaing crew who were busy cleaning up and then walked over to her trailer. Shiri wanted to change before heading out to Tony's. Especially since the heels she was wearing were killing her feet. As she made her way to her trailer she saw Brendan standing outside his car. He didn't seem to be doing anything. Shiri glanced over at him and smiled, but the smile was not returned. Shiri frowned and then sighed. Feeling somewhat uncomfortable she picked up the pace and ran towards her trailer, not wanting to smile or talk to anyone.

Jason didn't bother changing, he was comfortable with the clothes his character Max had been left wearing. He glanced at himself in the mirror and smiled, " Nice Behr." Jason grabbed his jacket, keys and quickly stepped out of his trailer to see Katherine waiting for him. Before he could say anything she was already up against him and lightly kissing him. Jason kissed her back as a smile lit upon his face. Him and Katherine had grown serious before the filming of season two. He felt it was the attraction that drew them together and her personality was okay. Jason found himself giving into her because of her beauty.

Majandra walked out of the Crashdown and over to Brendan. " Hey what are you still doing here? I figured you would have already left for Tony's." Brendan sighed.

" I just assumed I would wait for you."

" Oh, thanks."

" Sure. Are you ready?"

" No um let me go check on Shiri."

" Um why?"

" I don't know. She's my best friend."

" I think that she is capable of driving and finding her way to the restaurant." Maria sighed.

" Okay." Brendan nodded and then opened his car door. Majandra kissed him before running over to her car. They then pulled out of the parking lot and headed over to Tony's.

Shiri finished changing and then brushed her hair. She had decided to wear khakis and red top with her black boots. Shiri grabbed her keys and then stepped out of her trailer door to see Jason and Katherine breaking away from a kiss. She looked to the ground and quickly passed them, not wanting to engage in a conversation.

Katherine saw Shiri out of the corner of her eye. She quickly leaned in and kissed Jason, not wanting him to engage in a conversation with her. Katherine felt that Shiri was always wanting to be the center of everyone's attention and it bugged her.

Jason pulled away from Katherine and said, " Come on. We're going to be late."

" Yeah you're right."

Katherine held Jason's hand and led him towards the parking lot.

Shiri hurried to her car and stepped inside. She then started the engine and pulled out of the parking lot.

TONY'S RESTAURANT*30 MINUTES LATER-

Colin and his girlfriend, Busy were the first to arrive. He had picked her up after he left the Roswell set. They both sat their at a table giggling when Nick came walking through the front doors. Nick smiled at them and slid in the booth. " Hey Colin. This must be the infamous Busy?" Busy giggled.

" Yeah that's me. It's nice to meet you."

" You too. So where are the others?"

Colin took a sip of his drink and shrugged his shoulders. " I'm not sure. I mean they should be here any mintue."

Nick nodded and the politely called the waiter over and then ordered a coke. He then glanced up at Colin and Busy. " Man so what are you going to do now, acting wise I mean?" Colin took another sip of his drink and shrugged his shoulders.

" Hopefully I will be able to do some movies. Um Kevin Williamson called me yesterday and said he had a movie proposition for me so who knows."

" Sweet man. So you'll get to hang out with the WB actors." Colin laughed.

" What are you talking about?"

" Well you know those WB girls." Nick smiled and then faked coughed as he muttered, " Katie Holmes." Colin caught on and began laughing.

" Shut up Nick."

Colin glanced up and smiled when he saw Brendan and Majandra walk in. Brendan nodded and they approached the table.

Nick glanced up and rolled his eyes. He quickly scooted across the rounded booth table so that he was next to Colin.

Brendan shook his head at Nick and had Majandra slide in first and then he followed. Before a real conversation could start Jason and Katherine came walking in.

Katherine smiled, " Hey guys. Nice to see you again, Busy. How are you?" Busy sipped her drink and smiled.

" I have been doing great. I was signed on with Cover Girl today."

" Wow congratulations. I've always wanted to represent a makeup fetish."

" Hey you know they are still recruiting people."

" Really?"

" Yeah I think you'd be great." Busy glanced over at Majandra.

" Girl you too."

Majandra smiled and then nodded. " Yeah that would be so much fun. Maybe they'd let me sing." Brendan smiled.

" Why wouldn't they? Your voice is beautiful." Majandra kissed his cheek and whispered, " Thank you."

Jason made eye contact with the waiter and whistled for him to walk over to the table. The young waiter nervously smiled and then approached the table of celebrities. He nodded and then greeted them, " Hello sir, how may I help you?" Jason thought for a moment and then said,

" I'll have a Heinekin Beer."

The young waiter nodded and then glanced over at Majandra and Brendan. " And for you?" Brendan shrugged his shoulders.

" Yeah I'll have the same." Majandra smiled.

" I will have an ice tea, please." He nodded and then began leaving the table.

Shiri pulled into Tony's parking lot and hurried into the restaurant.

Busy immediately recognized Shiri and waved her over.

Shiri smiled and walked over to the table. " Hey guys. Sorry I'm late."

Jason glanced up at Shiri and shook his head. " No problem." He then slid over to Shiri could sit down next to him.

Katherine frowned and sighed. Jason immediately turned to her and asked, " What's wrong?" Katherine placed her elbows on the table and sighed in frustration.

" The waiter didn't even ask me if I wanted anything. What kind of service is this?"

Brendan rolled his eyes at Katherine's complaint. He then whistled and the young waiter hurried over. " How may I help you?"

Katherine glanced up at him, " I would like to order."

" Sure what can I get you?"

" A lemon ice tea and please no lemon." The waiter nodded and then glanced down at Shiri. " How may I help you?"

" I would like a diet coke please."

" Sure, ma'am." Shiri giggled.

" You can call me Shiri. What's your name?"

" My name's Isaac."

" Nice to meet you Isaac."

" You to. Wow you're really nice."

" Thank you."

Isaac nodded and then left the table and then everyone glanced at Shiri, all except Colin for he was smiling at her. Shiri glanced up and raised an eyebrow. " What?"

Majandra smiled. " Aren't you Miss polite?" Shiri made a face and they both began giggling.

Nick stretched and then asked, " So what did you guys think of the second season?"

Brendan was the first to speak, " I thought there was too much melodramatic shit. I mean with Tess being pregnant." Majandra nodded.

" Yeah I wasn't to happy with that."

Katherine thought for a moment and then spoke, " I was really proud of the season. I mean it seemed to focus more on sci-fi then Max and Liz's relationship." Shiri scoffed.

" What relationship? The two were either fighting or not talking."

Jason nodded. " Yeah that's sure as hell true. It seems we lost a lot of viewers."

Katherine shook her head no. " I loved the Hybrid Chronicles secton."

Colin frowned and then shook his head. " No I don't think so. I thought that the Hybrid Chronicles was the worst part of the season. It was focused too much on Isabel and Laurie."

Katherine frowned, " Colin what are you saying?"

" I liked it when it was focused on Max and Liz."

" What like the first season?"

" Yeah."

" It was only Liz throughout the entire season."

Jason sighed and then nodded. " Yeah I mean I know the fans like the M/L relationship, but it seemed that Liz was the entire season one. I would like to see more of the aliens background."

Katherine nodded. " Yeah I agree. I mean no offense Shiri, but JK made it seem as if it was the Shiri Show instead of Roswell."

Shiri looked to the ground and then to Katherine. " Just don't."

Katherine raised an eyebrow and asked, " Don't what?"

" I have heard and dealt with enough of this for the past two seasons and I'm tired of it. I am so sick and tired of you blaming me for the script. I didn't write it. So please just get off my back."

Shiri gulped as Jason, Majandra, Colin, Busy, Michael and Nick eyed her with confusion and shock. None of them expected Shiri to yell at Katherine. Shiri didn't even expect it herself. Her thoughts began to scatter.

Oh My Goodness. What did I just do? Great now everyone is staring at me as if I am some bitch. I can't believe I said that to Katherine. Great Shiri. Try to get yourself out of this one.

Shiri bit her lip and glanced over at Katherine. " Katie I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said those things." Katie didn't really respond, but nod and sip her ice water. Shiri felt horrible. No matter how rude Katie was being she shouldn't have approached the situation the way she did.

Jason shook his head and turned to Shiri, " Where did that come from?" Shiri whimpered and sighed.

" I don't know. Listen I really am sorry."

Busy and Majandra exchanged sympathetic looks and then looked over at Shiri. Busy looked down at her hands and then smiled. She didn't want everyone's night to be ruined. " Hey Katherine and Shiri. I spoke with Majandra before everyone had gotten here, but in a couple of weeks Cover Girl is doing a model search. They are looking for young actresses. I think it would be great if you all auditioned."

Katherine glanced over at Busy and nodded. " Yeah that sounds awesome! I have always wanted to be a makeup representative! Not to mention Cover Girl. That would boost my popularity among the acting world."

Busy nodded and looked over at Majandra who was about to break into laughter. Majandra regained her composure and then looked over at Shiri. " What about you gurl? Are you going to try out?" Shiri shrugged her shoulders.

" I am not sure yet."

Katherine began laughing and the waved her hand in front of her face to cool down.

Nick rolled his eyes and asked, " Katie what is so funny?" Katherine sipped her water and then said, " I just can't imagine Shiri modeling for Cover Girl."

Shiri closed her eyes and groaned in frustration, " Listen. If you are trying to make me feel bad for what I said earlier than fine, but know this. I apologized and I genuinely feel bad about it. I can't say the same for you." Shiri grabbed her purse and then threw ten dollars on the table for the waiter. " I really have to get going, but I will talk to you guys soon I am sure." Shiri avoided eye contact with her fellow co stars and then bolted out of the restaurant.

Brendan cleared his throat and then said, " Shiri and I may not get along, but I don't think insulting her was neccesary."

Jason sighed in frustration. " Listen can't we just sit down and eat with out all of the drama?"

Colin shook his head and then excused himself from the table. He quickly ran out of the restaurant after Shiri.

Shiri was opening her car door when she heard her name being called. Shiri bit her lip and then glanced over at the restaurant doors to see Colin bolt out of them and run towards her. Shiri sighed and then fake smiled. " Hey what's up?" Colin stopped in front of her and shook his head.

" Don't all right." Shiri frowned and then asked.

" Don't what?"

" You don't have to pretend to be someone your not or feel something you aren't feeling. It's me." Shiri looked to the ground and then paused for a moment before glancing back up at Colin.

" Yeah I know. Listen I'm just tired...."

" You're doing it again." Shiri smiled.

" Okay I am just angry with everything right now."

" You mean Katherine?"

" She plays a big part."

" You can't let what she says bring you down like that. Shiri you wear your heart on your sleeve and she knows that. You are a sweet, innocent person and she knows that. Because of this she throws hurtful comments, knowing that it will hurt you."

" Um and your point of advice would be?"

" Don't let her get to you and she will lose."

" I don't understand what went wrong. With her, Jason, or Brendan."

" I think the desire to be famous has taken it's toll. It hasn't on you and that's why you are all so different." Shiri smiled.

" Thank you." Colin laughed.

" For what?"

" For being such a good friend and for these little talks."

" Hey I'm just stating the obvious." Colin opened his arms and Shiri gladly accepted the gesture as he pulled her in for a hug. " Are you going to come back inside?" Shiri stepped back from Colin and half smiled.

" No I think I'm going to go home and stear clear of the highschool drama for one evening." Colin laughed and then shoved his hands in his pockets.

" All right. Night Shiri."

" Night Colin." Shiri smiled and began to step into her car when Colin turned around and yelled.

" Hey Appleby you might try out for the Cover Girl thing. It has your name and face written all over it."

Shiri smiled and nodded as she stepped into her car and shut the door. She was now in a wonderful mood all because of her loyal friend, Colin Hanks.

Colin walked back inside to see that Nick was telling one of his jokes while Brendan scoffed. Colin sighed and shook his head as he sat down and said with an obvious sarcastic tone " Hey at least fame and the desire to be better hasn't screwed our friendships up."

40 MINUTES LATER~

The group finished eating and gathered their things. Colin walked over to the cashier to pay for his part of the bill when Jason walked up behind him and asked nonchalantly, " Is Shiri all right?" Colin nodded and paid the cashier.

" Jason so now you care." Jason frowned and then asked,

" Excuse me?"

" You didn't seem so to be worried about her when Katherine was bitching her out." Jason paid the cashier and rolled his eyes as he walked away.

Brendan and Majandra were walking out into the parking lot, discussing the night's events and confrontations. Brendan asked annoyingly, " What is Shiri and Katherine's problem anyway?" Majandra shrugged her shoulders.

" I don't know, but I do know that Katherine had no right to say the things she did."

" Shiri wasn't exactly playing princess either."

" Not at first, but she sincerley apologized."

" I don't know. Let me be honest with you. I am glad that we are done filming for this season."

" Why do you say that?"

" Too much fucking drama if you ask me." Majandra only laughed as they kissed and went their seperate ways.

Jason walked out to his pickup with his arms around Katie's shoulder. " Hey Jason why don't you stay with me tonight?" Jason smiled and then sighed.

" I can't."

" Why?"

" I have to review a script for a guest role on Days Of Our Lives. The auditions are tomorrow at 7 A.M."

" You on a soap opera? How cute." Jason laughed.

" What would you call Roswell?" Katie made a face.

" No that's okay I will just come over to your house."

" Sweetie I would love that I would but I really have to work on this script."

" Jason, please?" Jason sighed and then reluctantly agreed, not wanting to make Katie think that he didn't want to be with her.

LATER THAT EVENING~

Shiri was watching reruns of Saved By The Bell when her phone rang. Shiri set her half gallon of Chocolate Chip ice cream down and reached over to grab her black cordless phone. She quickly answered, " Hello?"

" Hey girlie girl!"

" Hey Majandra. What's going on?"

" I just wanted to make sure you were okay."

" Yeah I'm fine now thanks."

" Now?"

" Well Colin talked to me about it and I feel better."

" Good old Colin." Shiri and Majandra giggled.

" So anything new?"

" No not really."

" What happened during dinner?"

" Oh not much. Katie continued to talk about her search for stardom and then Nick told us some of his jokes."

" I missed Nick's jokes? Damn."

" Trust me these weren't worth missing."

" Rub it in."

" Gladly."

" So is Brendan mad at me?"

" No he is just being him."

" Hmm....good point."

" Well I'm gonna go, but I will call you in the morning."

" Sure. Oh are you going to do that Cover Girl shoot?"

" Did you even have to ask?"

" Um no I guess not."

" Are you?"

" I don't know."

" Oh come on. You would be great."

" You think so?"

" Would I lie to you?"

" No."

" Fine than it's settled."

" Okay okay you win."

" Ha." Shiri giggled.

" Well bye.

" Bye girl."

Shiri hung up her phone and then resumed eating her ice cream and watching her Saved By The Bell reruns.

LATER THAT MORNING~ 3 A.M.

Jason was up, studying his script. Why so early in the morning? Because he had spent the evening with Katherine which led to him not getting his script studied. Jason groaned and rubbed his eyes. He was awful tired. Before he was able to study any more, sleep washed over him.

9 A.M~

Jason woke up to find himself lying in papers, but not just ordinary papers, but his script! He glanced over at the clock and groaned in anger. " Damn it." He had missed the auditioning all because he had met Katie's needs. " I lost the part." Jason laid back down in the papers and groaned.

TWO WEEKS LATER~

Majandra arrived at the Cover Girl studios with Shiri. They decided to go together seeing how the other needed support. Majandra glanced over at Shiri, " Good luck girl." Shiri smiled.

" You too! I know you'll do great." Majandra and Shiri giggled as they stepped out of the car and walked over to the double door entrance. As soon as the left the warm weather and stepped inside the Cover Girl studios a rush of cool air hit their faces and neck. The atmosphere was relaxing and cool. Majandra grabbed Shiri's arm and giggled as they walked further into the building.

Shiri whispered, " Um where do we go, exactly?" Majandra pulled out a piece of paper with directions that Busy had written out for her.

" It says to go to the modeling counter." Shiri and Majandra exchanged annoyed looks because of the lack of specifics in Busy's directions. They both glanced to their left and right when Shiri said,

" Oh look there it is!" Majandra and Shiri quickly ran over to the modeling counter to where a young Italian man was typing away at the computer. Shiri nudged Majandra's shoulders and then smiled over at the young man. Majandra quickly caught on to what Shiri was trying to address. The man was hot!

The young man glanced up at the two beauties that stood before him. " Why hello ladies. I take it you are here to audition for Cover Girl,eh?"

Majandra nodded because her voice had completely left her. Shiri smiled, " Yeah that would be right."

" Great. If you would please sign your names here and I will have someone prepare you for wardrobe."

Shiri nodded and then grabbed the pen. As she was signing her name she heard an all too familiar voice creep up from behind her. Shiri turned around to see Katie and Jason. It had been a couple of weeks since that rough dinner she had engaged in.

Katherine cleared her throat and smiled. " Hey girls. Are you here to audition?" Majandra turned around and nodded.

" Yeah we are." She then began signing her name as Shiri stepped aside. She tucked a strand of hair back behind her ear and kept her gaze on the ground, until another voice spoke to her. " Hey Shiri."

Shiri looked up to see Jason, smiling. " Hey, what's up?"

" Oh nothing really. Katie dragged me along to watch her model. I guess I'll be watching you and Majandra as well." Shiri nodded.

" Oh um no you don't have to watch us." Jason laughed.

" Are you embarassed?" Shiri blushed.

" It's kind of weird. I mean with people you know watching you."

" I'll try not to look."

" Thanks."

Katie tugged on Jason's arm. " Come on. I am done signing now."

" Sure." Jason nodded good bye to Majandra and Shiri and then walked off with Katie. Majandra turned to Shiri and stuck her finger in her throat, gesturing that she was going to puke. Shiri laughed and playfully slapped Majandra's shoulder and asked,

" What was that for?" Majandra sighed.

" I love Katie and all,but her need to be famous is really annoying. Enough to make me gag." Shiri only laughed as an older woman approached them.

The older woman signaled for Shiri and Majandra to head on back towards the modeling isle. Shiri and Majandra smiled at the young Italian and then followed the lady down a hall. She then ushered them both into different rooms where they would get their hair, makeup and wardrobe taken care of. Majandra waved bye to Shiri and then entered her room.

40 MINUTES LATER-

Shiri stood up and walked away from the hair and makeup lady to glance at herself in the mirror. Her hair was worn down with curls at the bottom with baby pink top that tied behind her neck and settled above her belly button. She was then wearing khakis dress pants with boots. Shiri tucked a strand of hair back behind her ear and then left her dressing room to meet up with the other girls. While she was looking for Majandra she bumped into a good aquaitance, Katie Holmes.

Katie turned around and a smile spread across her face. " Shiri how are you?" Shiri smiled.

" I am doing well how about you?" Katie nodded.

" To be honest with you I am a little stressed out. I mean we start filming Dawson's Creek in two weeks. When does Roswell start?"

" In a month. Why are you guys starting so early?"

" Oh um James Van Der Beek is leaving town for a wedding during the original filming date. So it was bumped up."

" Oh wow. So how are you and Mr. Klein?" Katie giggled.

" We are doing just fine and how about you and Mr. Behr?" Shiri bit her lip and blushed.

" Um no actually we aren't dating." Katie covered her mouth and gasped.

" I am so sorry. I read to many magazines." Shiri smiled.

" It's okay, really."

Just then Majandra, Katherine and Sarah Michelle Gellar walked up to them. The girls continued to chat about their desire to be a Cover Girl Model when Busy Phillips ran up to them. " Oh guys I am so glad to see you all!" The girls giggled and carried on their converstation when an older french man began calling out their names. Shiri was called first due to her last name starting with an A.

She shivered with nervousness and left the group of girls after recieving a large amount of compliments and support.

Shiri walked behind the curtain to see a beautiful floral background set up with cameras surrounding it. She smiled and then took a seat on the stool. After speaking with the french man the shooting began. Pose after pose she performed while the camera men frantically took pictures.

Jason was drinking a cup of coffee when he heard that Katherine was modeling now. He walked over to the curtain and walked behind it to glance up and see an angel. An angel that he couldn't tear his eyes away from, Shiri Appleby. He nearly dropped his coffee on the floor at the sight of her. Jason didn't know why but her beauty at that moment stunned him. If it hadn't been for a tap on his shoulder he more than likely would have kept staring. Jason turned around to see an upset Katherine. Jason was startled by her facial expression. " Um hey sweetie. What's wrong?" Katherine sighed.

" God if you stared any longer you might have burn a hole right through her!" Jason cringed and then quickly defended himself.

" Katherine it's not like that and you know that." Katherine nodded,

" I know I am sorry." Jason wrapped his arms around her and kissed her forehead as Shiri walked by them.

Nick and Colin walked through the entrance of Cover Girl studios and walked into the back where the modeling and shooting was being taken. Colin patted Nick on the back and went to look for Busy. While Nick didn't dare move for an angel stood before him, Katie Holmes. Nick gulped and began walking towards her.

Katie was laughing and talking with Majandra when someone tapped her on the shoulder. Katie turned around to see Nick standing before her. She smiled and greeted him, " Hey Nick, what's up?" Nick gulped and nodded.

" Hey um nothing's up." Majandra and Katie exchanged amused looks while Nick blushed with embarrassment. " I mean I'm just fine."

" That's good." Nick nodded and then cleared his throat.

" Would you be interested in going out sometime?"

Majandra held her laughter in while Katie dealt with Nick.

" Oh um. Nick I think you are a great guy and if you would have asked me sooner...."

" But?"

" I am seeing someone." Nick nodded and quickly walked away feeling stupid.

Katie hated to see Nick so down, but her and Majandra couldn't help but giggle at his facial expressions. Majandra gave herself a minute to calm down and then sighed, " I really wish Brendan could have stopped by." Katie crossed her arms.

" Why didn't he?"

" Oh he is at the gym."

" Ooh working out."

" Heh yeah. That's my spaceboy."

45 MINTUES LATER~

The girls finished getting their pics and modeling done. They all sat in the refreshment room, awaiting the choices for Cover Girl.

Katherine sat beside Jason, holding his hand. " I am so nervous." Jason smiled. " Don't worry. You will do just fine."

" You think so?"

" Trust me."

Shiri sat in the corner, reading an article about Roswell. She loved the support she recieved from her fans. It was because of them that she decided to continue with Roswell for the third season and only them.

Colin walked into the refreshment room and greeted his friends. He saw Shiri in the corner and sat down beside her. " Hey what's up?"

" Hey Colin. Um not much really. I am just reading this article."

" About?"

" Roswell." Colin laughed and Shiri eyed him supiciously. " What's so funny?" Colin grew very serious and he then answered her.

" Shiri I am an alien." Shiri rolled her eyes and laughed. She glanced back at Colin, but he wasn't joking. Shiri slapped him and said,

" Cut it out, creepy." Colin looked to the ground.

" You hate me because I'm different don't you."

Shiri shook her head and smiled. Colin could always make her laugh. Within minutes he was laughing also. He couldn't keep a straight face. Colin glanced down at his watch and stood up. " Well I'll see you in a little bit."

" Why? Where are you going?"

" Busy wanted to see me."

" Ooh." Colin made a face.

" Shut up."

As Colin was leaving, a representative from Cover Girl came walking in. He cleared his throat and said, " I have the list of girls who will be modeling for Cover Girl for our 2002-2003 campaign, Katie Holmes and Shiri Appleby. We also choose Majandra Delfino for the singing.

Shiri, Majandra, and Katie began jumping out and down with excitement while Katherine laid her head in Jason's arms and sighed. She had really wanted to be a canidate of Cover Girl. It had been her dream.

Shiri glanced over at Katherine who looked upset and she knew why. Shiri bit her lip and thought for a moment before finally deciding. She walked over to the Cover Girl representative and began whispering to him.

Jason whispered nice things to Katherine when he heard Shiri talking about Katherine. He glanced over and listened. Jason couldn't believe what he was hearing!

The Cover Girl representative cleared his throat and announced, " I am afraid there has been a mistake. Katherine Heigl is one of the choices."

Katherine shot up and a genuine smile spread across her face.

Jason watched Shiri leave the room and he quickly followed her.

Colin finally found Busy, sitting at a table. A smile spread across his face and he sat down beside her. " Hey love, you wanted to speak with me?" Busy nodded and then paused for a moment before speaking. " I am leaving." Colin nervously laughed.

" Hehe what do you mean leaving?"

" I was offered a job in Paris, France."

" A modeling job?"

" Yes and a year study."

" Wow."

" I know I said the same thing and I have decided to go."

" That's great. I mean I am happy for you, but um where does that leave us?" Busy grabbed Colin's hand and then looked the the floor while talking.

" I do care deeply for you Colin, but I think that this break will be good for the both of us."

" I don't understand."

"I think we both need time apart. To grow." Colin continued to stare at Busy, but she didn't make eye contact with him.

" I have to let you go then." He stood up and kissed her forehead, whispering, " I loved you." Colin then walked away with his head low and hands shoved in his pockets.

Shiri was walking outside when Jason shouted at her. " Shiri wait!" She stopped and then turned around.

" Hey."

" Hey."

" So um what's going on, Jason?"

" I um heard what you did for Katie." Shiri looked to the ground, nodded and then began walking away, but Jason grabbed her arm. " Thank you. I know it what it must have took for you to do that."

" It's not a problem. So I will see you later." Jason nodded.

" Sure."

Shiri nodded and then walked away from Jason and out into the now cooler air. She wrapped her arms around her waist and headed for her car when she heard a soft cry. Shiri stopped walking and turned to her right to where the crying was coming from. She couldn't help but feel bad for the person so she walked over to them. As she got closer it the person's face became apparent. It was Colin, slumped against his car with his head buried in his arms and he cried, terribly.

A CHANGE IN US*A CHANGE IN YOU

CHAPTER 4

A SHOULDER TO CRY ON

Shiri gasped and then quickly bent down beside Colin. She wrapped his arms around his cradled figure and asked, " Colin please tell me what's wrong?" Colin kept his head buried for awhile before lifting his head and turning to Shiri.

" God this is embarrassing." Shiri shook her head.

" No it's not. It's me. You can tell me anything." Colin turned away from her and stared straight ahead of him. " It's Busy."

" Oh no is she okay?"

" Trust me she is fine. No she's better than fine. She has a modeling contract and foreign study in Paris, France. Not to mention she is single and ready to date." Shiri bit her lip.

" Single?" Colin nodded.

" She dumped me. Shiri I gave her everything. For the first time I actually believed that I was in love and that she loved me."

" Colin...."

" I was wrong not to mention a dumbass."

" No you are anything but that."

" Shiri don't. I know what you are trying to do."

" What be a friend?"

" Listen I'm just not in the mood all right?"

" Not it's not all right."

" I just need to be alone."

" Well forget it because I'm not leaving you alone."

Shiri's heart went out to her dear friend Colin. She didn't know what to say that would make him feel better. Shiri stood up and reached out for Colin's hand.

" Come on." Colin frowned and then looked up at Shiri.

" No offense Shiri, but I'm not in the mood for any field trips."

" Colin don't make me kick you." Colin groaned and then stood up, taking his hand in hers.

" Where are we going?"

" You'll see."

" Shiri!"

" Colin!" Colin shook his head and then follwed Shiri to her car. He then waited patiently by the passenger's side door for her to let him in.

Shiri unlocked the door and Colin stepped in. He then buckled his seatbelt and stared out the window as more tears left his eyes.

Shiri was almost in tears herself because of seeing Colin in so much pain, but she had to be strong for him. He needed a friend right now not a crying partner. Shiri started the car and then carefully pulled out of the driveway and onto the highway.

15 MINTUES LATER~

Shiri was still driving and trying to make small talk with Colin, but even that was a struggle. She sighed and then turned the radio on. The song was Backstreet Boy's, " How Do I Fall In Love With You."

Remember when

We never needed each other

The best of friends

Like sister and brother

We understood

We’d never be

Alone

Shiri smiled and kept her eyes on the road. She then turned to Colin. " I really like this song." Colin looked over at her and nodded.

" Yeah I've always been a BSB myself." Shiri made a face.

" Shut up."

" I am kidding. I like it to."

" Really?"

" I wouldn't ever lie to you."

" I know."

Those days are gone

Now I want you so much

The night is long

And I need your touch

Don’t know what to say

Never meant to feel this way

Don’t wanna be alone tonight

Colin looked to his hands and mumbled," I wish I knew what I had done wrong with Busy. Why I couldn't make her love me?"

Shiri shook her head, " No Colin. You did nothing wrong."

CHORUS

What can I do to make you mine

Falling so hard, so fast this time

What did I say, what did you do

How did I fall in love with you

Colin looked back out the passenger window. " Is it possible for someone to die from such heartache?" Shiri gave him a sympathetic look and sighed.

" No not when you have friends. Colin things between you and Busy might have gone wrong, but I will always be here and Majandra is crazy about you."

I hear your voice

And I start to tremble

Brings back the child

That I resemble

I cannot pretend

That we can still be friends

Don’t wanna be alone tonight

Shiri looked back to the road as Colin glanced over at her. " Thanks." Shiri looked to him.

" Your welcome."

CHORUS - repeat

I wanna say this right

And it has to be tonight

Just need you to know

I don’t wanna live this lie

I don’t wanna say goodbye

With you I wanna spend the rest of my life

Colin sighed and then asked, " Is there really that one person out there that you were meant to be with or are there many people?" Shiri thought for a moment.

" I believe there is one person out there although obstacles in life might change the person that you are meant to be with, but ultimately I think God controls that department."

CHORUS - repeat

What can I do to make you mine

Falling so hard, so fast this time

Everything’s changed, we never knew

How did I fall in love with you

As the song ended Shiri pulled up into the ice cream parlor parking lot. She parked her car and glanced over at Colin.

" Let's go get fat." Colin laughed.

" I'm all for it."

They both walked into the tiny ice cream parlor and bought their favorite ice cream. Shiri bought a strawberry mint while Colin settled for chocolate. They then laughed and told jokes as they made thier way to the nearby park. Shiri and Colin sat on the swings and ate their ice cream, enjoying the other's company.

Colin turned to Shiri and half smiled, " Thank you for all of this. Sorry I haven't been the all that great of company." Shiri smiled.

" You're right you haven't been all that great, but the best." Colin smiled and they both finished their ice cream. " Shiri?"

" Hmm?"

" I mean it. Thank you. If I didn't have you as a friend...."

" But you do."

Shiri and Colin then walked back to her car and onto the highway.

The summer went by quickly for everyone. Katherine and Majandra modeled for Cover Girl throughout the summer, bringing them and the show, Roswell more publicity. Seeing how Shiri gave her modeling chance up so Katherine could take it. Majandra and Brendan grew closer although there were those occasional fights. Majandra and Shiri hung out a lot, becoming even better friends. Jason seemed to be doing the worse out of all of them. The life of being a celebrity seemed to be tearing him apart and it didn't help that he was stuggling to keep his relationship with Katherine alive. Although he wasn't really sure on why he was. His family and friends distanced themselves from in due to his new egotistical behavior. Shiri and Colin became the best of friends and that was obvious to everyone around him. Colin had gotten his acting deal with his father for a tv sitcom. Although he did miss Roswell. Then there is Nick who kept his distance from his fellow co-workers and he denies that him and William Sadler were caught throwing water ballons at young teens.

CRASHDOWN~ SEPTEMBER 15, 2001

Shiri, Majandra, Nick, Brendan and William were talking about their summer when the bell rang on the front entrance doors. Shiri glanced over and her smile faded. Jason walked through the doors looking depressed, tired and extremely underweight. His eyes had black circles and his eyes were emotionless. Gasps and swears were heard throughout the room. Shiri gulped and said, " Jason?" TBC