Missing You

Missing You
Summary

Liz laid on her bed, looking out her bedroom window at the stars.She was thinking about her day, and classes, but most of she was thinking of her love, Max. Liz had written Max everyday, and he called every other night. They tried to keep in contact as much as possible, but it never seemed enough. She wanted to be able to hold him. Liz always felt safe and secure when she was in his arms. Was her life here, worth being away from Max? Liz had been majoring in Molecular Biology. She and Maria were sharing a dorm room with two other girls while Kyle and Alex were next door. Liz had been majoring in Molecular Biology which of course was her passion, or at least she thought it was. When she was in Roswell, becoming a scientist and studying had always thrilled her,but now she wasn't so sure. Now she had it, but it didn't fulfill her. Nothing ever would if she wasn't with Max. He was her life. Without him, she was lost. Liz continued to lay silently on her bed, looking at the stars, as a single tear slid down her cheek. Max laid on his bed with his arms behind his head, as he gazed at the stars, through his bedroom window. Ever since Liz had left his life had been incomplete. This wave of loneliness hit him. Sometimes he wished he wouldn't have let her go, but in the long run he knew it was for the best. After Liz had left, the Crashdown was short of staff so he offered to help. Max thought that by working at the Crashdown he could familarize himself with Liz and also get to know her parents better. When he wasn't working or at school he would stay in his room and think...about Liz. Max recieved letters from her almost everyother day, and he called her everyother night, but it wasn't the same. He missed holding her. Max's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of his door opening. He slowly turned to see Isabel standing in his doorway. " Max." He softly mumbled. " What Is?" " Dinner is ready." " I am not all that hungry." " Max you can't do this to yourself." " Isabel, could you please just tell mom and dad that I am not hungry." " Max" " Isabel ,please leave me alone." " Listen Michael and Tess are coming over later." " So." " So, I thought we could all hang out." " I talked to Michael earlier on the phone, and I have no desire to see Tess. Now could you please leave. I have half an hour before I have to go to work. I want some time alone." Isabel sighed and then left and shut Max's door. He then looked back to the stars as a single tear ran down his cheek. Liz sat up, wiping the tears from her face, and then left her bedroom. She walked down the hall into the kitchen to find Maria, and their two roomates, Kayarra and April, watching the Wood. Liz not wanting them to see her quietly snuck in the kitchen, to grab a soda. Although she wasn't all that lucky. Kayarra noticed Liz roaming in the kitchen. " Hey Liz! Get your butt in here and watch this movie with us." " Um, you know I am really tired and I have a lot of studying to do." Kayarra, April, and Maria exchanged looks and then stood up and walked over to Liz. Kayarra turned the lights on and then they all noticed that Liz had been crying. April walked over to Liz. " It's Max, isn't it?" Liz sadly nodded. " God, I miss him so much." Kayarra sighed. " Liz don't worry you'll see him soon. " Maria smiled and then ran over to her stereo. " I know exactly what we need. " Maria put her in her Tarsha Vega cd, playing the song, Be Ya Self. Kayarra and April pulled Liz into the living room and they all began dancing. Max glanced over at his clock, and then jumped out of bed, realizing that he had to get to work a.s.a.p. Changing into his work outfit, a smile came to his face. " At least I don't have to wear a dress." Max's work outfit consisted of black pants and a blue and silver shirt with an alien symbol on the front pocket. Max finished getting ready and then on his way out, grabbed a picture of him and Liz together, slipping it in his front pocket. AT THE CRASHDOWN- Max entered through the back of the Crashdown and then signed in. Just as he was about to enter to the front, Liz's father, Jeff spoke to him. " Hey Max." Max turned so that he was facing Mr. Parker. " Yes Mr. Parker." Jeff began laughing. " Oh please call me Jeff." Max also laughed. " I know that you care about my Lizzie a lot." " Yes I do." " ..and I wanted to thank you for helping us out here. It means a lot." " No, sir it was my pleasure." " You're a hard worker son, and I am glad to have you here." " Thank you very much." Jeff patted Max on the back and then headed upstairs. Max smiled and then headed into the front of the Crashdown and began waiting tables. Liz, Maria, Kayarra, and April continued to dance to the music, not noticing that Alex and Kyle had entered the room. Alex and Kyle began laughing. April noticed Kyle and Alex out of the corner of her eye, and quickly shut the music off. Liz, Maria, and Kayarra froze also when they saw the guys looking at them. Maria cleared her throat and then walked up to the guys. " Um..what are you geeks doing here?" Kyle smiled. " We wanted to fill you and Liz in on the good news." Liz stepped beside Maria. " What good news?" Alex and Kyle exchanged looks and then Alex answered her. " Well, um seeings how spring break is coming up, we took the inititave to go ahead and by four plane tickets to....Roswell, New Mexico!" Liz and Maria began jumping up and down. Liz and Maria were so excited. Alex and Kyle joined in. Kayarra and April began laughing. After about ten min. Liz and the others began to calm down. Liz then spoke, " Wait. Do Max, Isabel, Michael, or Tess know about us coming?" Kyle put on a devilish smile. " They have no idea." Maria laughed and then spoke." So when do we leave?" BACK AT THE CRASHDOWN- Max's shift was almost over. He was thankful too, seeings how he hadn't been getting any sleep. Just then he heard the entrance door to the Crashdown Cafe ring. Max looked up and sighing and rolling his eyes. Tess, Michael, and Isabel came strolling in. Max scanned the restaurant hoping to find a free waiter or waitress, but just his luck there wasn't anyone. Max sighed and then walked over to Isabel, Michael, and Tess who were already seated at their usual booth. " Welcome to the Crashdown Cafe how may I help you?" Isabel and Tess began laughing. Tess then spoke. " Oh Max, you dont have to be so formal with us. " She then reached for his waist, but Max stepped back with a frown. Max glanced to Michael and Isabel. " So what can I get you guys?" Michael scratched his head, " Um, I'll go with the Will Smith Burger." " Okay, what about you Isabel?" " Um, I would just like a coke." Max relunctantly looked to Tess. " How about for you Tess?" " I will have a coke also." Max nodded as he wrote everyone's order down and then began to walk away, but Isabel called him back. " Hey Max." " Yeah?" " We are all worried about you." Max raised an eyebrow. " Listen I am okay. Everything is gonna be okay." Max then left the table. Isabel turned to Micheal. " Do you work with him tomorrow?" " I think so why?" " Try and cheer him up. Get him out of this slump he is in." " Sorry Isabel, but seeings how Iam not a tall, brunette with certain feminine feautures. I don't see it as being a possibility." Isabel glared at Michael, and Tess laughed. LATER THAT EVENING, NEAR CLOSING- Max glanced over at the clock. Only ten more minutes and he could go home. Sighing with frustration to see that Michael, Isabel, and Tess were still there. He ignored them and continued to clean up, until the clock stroke ten, and Max was out of there. He ran into the back and grabbed his jacket. Running out of the door, before Isabel could hunt him down. He then prepared his walk home. As soon as he arrived home, he threw his jacket on the floor and laid down on his bed. Staring at the stars, and thinking of his love, Liz. red= authors intervene THE NEXT MORNING- Liz and Maria set their alarms for 5A.M. seeings how their flight was to leave at 6:30A.M. Liz was so excited to see Max. She had dreamt of this day since her departure from Roswell. Did Max look any different? Was he just as miserable as she was? Liz rummaged through her closet, looking for something to wear. Finally she decided to wear a red top and gray pants with her white tennis shoes. Her hair was worn in a high ponytail. Grabbing her suitcase and purse she walked into the living room to find Maria ready to leave. " Hey Maria!" " Hey, I am so excited!" " I know me too. I can't wait to see Max." Maria and Liz began jumping up and down with excitement just as Kyle and Alex entered their dorm. Alex and Kyle began laughing. Alex walked over to the girls. " Hey, are you guys ready to go?" Liz and Maria nodded. Then Kyle, Alex, Liz, and Maria grabbed their things and headed out to the airport. Max woke up to his radio alarm clock. It was playing a Counting Crows song. " Geez even the radio knows when I am feeling like shit." Max rubbed his eyes and yawned. He was already excited for tonight. Max was planning on calling Liz. He missed her more than anything. Max hadn't smiled in weeks. Without Liz, he felt nothing. Max groaned. " Damn it. Get a hold of yourself Max." Just then someone knocked on his door. " Go away." Obviously not caring what Max thought, Isabel opened his bedroom door. " Max, Tess and Michael are here." Max shrugged his shoulders, and then looked to Isabel. " Does this look like a face that cares?" " Max don't be such a jerk." Max sighed. " Listen, Iam sorry. I just want to be left alone." " You always want to be alone." " Isabel, quit arguing with me. You can be such a pain." " Well I am you're sister. It's my job." " You're doing a heck of a good job." " Okay, I am leaving. " " Thank you." As soon as Isabel left and shut his door, Max laid back down, turning the Counting Crows song up louder. Knowing in half an hour he would have to leave for work. LATER THAT DAY- Liz, Alex, Maria, and Kyle had just arrived at the Roswell airport. They were now walking down the terminal, heading out of the airport. Liz turned to Alex, giving him a questioning look. " Um, Alex...how are we going to leave the airport? I mean we don't have a ride." Alex laughed. " Au Contraire mon amie. I called everyone's parents. I told you that Isabel, Michael, Tess, and Max didn't know that we were coming." " Sorry Alex. I never should have of doubted you." " You are learning well, young grasshopper." Liz laughed, as they left the airport. Before Liz, Maria, Alex, or Kyle could take another step. They were bombarded by their parents. Everyone exchanged hello's and how are you's. Liz was happy to see her parents, but it didn't compare to seeing Max. Maria knew exactly how Liz was feeling, seeings how she was in a hurry to see Michael. Maria cleared her throat. " Okay, now lets go. I have people to see and places to be." Maria's mom, Amy put her arm around Maria. " Let me guess. You are waiting to see Michael?" " Mom!" " Okay, sorry. Sensitive subject." " Oh so how are you and Jim getting along?" " Maria!" " Okay, sorry. Sensitive subject." Liz was surprised to hear that Max was working at the Crashdown. Liz turned to her father, Jeff. " Dad when did he start?" " As soon as you left. He thought we could use the extra help. You know Liz, he is a really nice young man." Liz smiled. " Yeah I know he is." Sheriff Valenti and Kyle were walking to his truck, as they were talking. " So Kyle, how was it? College I mean." " Dad I have learned that college is stressful, but no fear for I have learned a meditating techinique to purify the soul and mind." " Kyle..are you doing drugs?" " Dad drugs are only a polluting substance to the mind. Which can throw you off balance from finding your inner self." " As soon as we get home, I want you to lay down." ARRIVING AT THE CRASHDOWN CAFE- Liz, her parents, Maria, her mother, Kyle, Sheriff Valenti, Alex, and his father arrived at the Crashdown, in hopes of seeing Max, Isabel and Michael. Oh and Tess too.(NOT REALLY) Max was busy waiting tables that he didn't notice them enter the Crashdown. Liz froze, at the sight of Max. She couldn't move or speak. She had been waiting for this moment since the day she left Roswell. Liz smiled at the thought of Max working. Knowing that his reason for working there was to help her parents. He was so sweet. Liz took a deep breath and walked over to Max. Max was clearing a table, when Liz walked up behind him. " You missed a spot." Max sighed angrily and then whipped around, preparing to yell at the person, but stopped when he saw that it was Liz. Max was in complete and utter shock. Within seconds, Liz was engulfed his arms. Max held onto her as tightly as possible, whispering in her ear, “ God I missed you.” “ I missed you too.” Max smiled for the first time in weeks. Michael, Maria, Alex, Isabel, Tess and Kyle were all touched to see Max and Liz together. Michael, Isabel, and Tess had to deal with Max and Alex, Kyle, and Maria had to deal with Liz. They were all grateful to see them in eachother’s arms once again. Max pulled back from Liz, cupping her face in his hands. “ Liz, words can’t describe how happy I am to have you here in my arms.” “ Max I know exactly how you feel. These past two years have been like torture.” Max slowly leaned in and kissed Liz, on the lips. “ We’re together now.” Liz was about to respond, but then noticed that everyone was smiling and watching them. “ Max, let’s go somewhere else and talk.” Max wanted the exact same thing. He looked to Liz’s father, who gave him a look of permission to leave work early. Max smiled and then took Liz’s hand, leading her out of the Crashdown, and to his Jeep. Max opened and helped Liz into the Jeep. He then ran around to the driver’s side and jumped in. Starting the Jeep and speeding off to an unknown place. “ So Max, where are we going?” Max kept his eyes on the road and smiled. “ Trust me. You’ll like it.” Liz smiled and then leaned back in the seat, letting the wind catch her hair. TWENTY MINUTES LATER- Max pulled of onto a gravel road, leading off into the desert. He then parked the Jeep, and looked to Liz. “ This is it.” Liz scanned the area. It was beautiful. The sunset sparkled on the desert. “ Max it’s beautiful.” Max leaned over to Liz, and kissed her. “ No, you’re beautiful.” Liz smiled and then kissed him back. “ Liz, I wanted to for us to be alone.” “ Me too.” “ This week is just what I needed. To see and touch you.” Liz turned away, and Max immediately knew that something was wrong with her. “ Liz? What is it?” Liz sighed and then faced him, it being obvious that tears were forming in his eyes. “ I don’t want this to be the last week. Max when I was in Minnesota my life was a mess. There I was pursuing my studies in Molecular Biology. It was what I had dreamed of all my life, or at least I thought. Then I realized that science doesn’t make me happy, it doesn’t fulfill. Max, when I am not with you...it’s an unbearable feeling. You are what makes me happy. I could live in a cardboard box, but as long as I had you, then my life would be complete. I love you Max Evans.” Not realizing that he had been crying, Max moved closer to Liz. “ Liz, trust me. I know how you feel. When you weren’t here with me..well lets say that the Counting Crows were my new best friends, but Liz I don’t want to hold you back.” “ No Max. You dont. I have decided to stay in Roswell.” “ Liz what about your studies?” “ There is a small college 45min. out of town. I can finish them there.” “ Liz is this what you want.” “ You’re what I want.” Max smiled and then kissed her, mumbling I love you’s back and forth. LATER AT THE CRASHDOWN- Sitting at their usual booth Maria, Alex, and Kyle were informing and tellling Isabel, Tess, and Michael about college life. Maria cleared her throat and then turned to Isabel and Tess, " Let me tell you. Their are some fugly guys going to college. I mean sure you think handsome young college men. Um, no it's more along the lines of bigger geeks." Isabel and Tess began laughing. Michael obviously not amused turned to Maria. " You were looking at guys?" " Don't worry you're the only one for me spaceboy." Maria then kissed Michael on the cheek, just as Liz and Max walked into the Crashdown hand in hand. Tess saw this and immediately rolled her eyes. Max wasn't destined to be with her. Max kissed Liz, and as they approached the booth. Max eyed Michael. " Hey I need to talk to you." " Sure thing boss." Max sighed as Michael slid out of the booth. Max then turned to Liz. " I will be right back." " Okay." Liz and Max kissed once more and then Max and Michael walked into the back of the Crashdown. " So Maxwell. What was so important?" Max nervously began pacing back and forth. " I need you, and the others to help me tonight." " Gee Maxwell. Could you be a little more specific?" " Knock it off Michael this is serious." Micahel shot back, shocked to see Max this way. " Okay sorry." " I want to throw a party tonight here." " Hey you called the right person. I will throw some flyers out, and.." " No Michael. This isn't just any party. I want you, Isabel, Alex,Sheriff Valenti,Maria's mom, Maria, Kyle, Tess, Liz's parents and mine to be there. It is a private party." Michael scratched his head. " Um I am a little confused Maxwell. Why kind of a party is it going to be with parents there?" Max sighed and then rubbed his sweaty hands on his jeans. He then walked over to Michael and whispered something in his ear. Liz, Maria, Isabel, Tess, Alex, and Kyle were all startled by Michael's yelling. Maria stood up, " What the hell?" Within minutes Max and Michael walked back into the front of the Crashdown, with Michael smiling and Max nervously walking behind him. Max turned to Liz. " Hey uh..Liz, why don't we go upstairs for awhile." Liz looked at Max in confusion. " Um, sure Max." While Max and Liz were walking away, Max turned back and gave Michael a look. Michael smiled and then waved. As soon as Max and Liz were upstairs, Michael turned and bent down over the table. " Guys, we have a lot of work to do...." Liz walked upstairs and into her room, with Max following her and then shutting and locking the door. Before Liz could say or do anything she found herself engulfed in Max's arms. " Liz, I can't live without you. You mean everything to me." Max was holding tightly onto Liz, not letting her move even an inch away from him. Liz smiled and then took advantage of the moment,by holding tightly onto him. The both of them stood there, not needing to say anything. Them being there together was all that they needed. Michael, Isabel, Maria, Kyle, and Alex closed the Crashdown early. They were all running around, preparing for that evening. Maria, and the others were so excited that she continued to scream out in excitement. Michael turned to Maria, and kissed her. " Hmm spaceboy what was that for?" " I thought that might keep you from screaming for awhile." Maria playfully slapped Michael and they continued setting up. Max lifted Liz into his arms and then laid her on the bed. " Liz let me lay with you." Liz smiled. " Please." Max laid on the bed next to Liz as they snuggled up next to eachother wrapped in eachother's arms. TWO HOURS LATER- Max woke up, but didn't stir for he didn't want to wake his princess up. Max gazed at Liz. She looked so peaceful, with grace and beauty hovering over her. He lightly kissed her forehead, and then quietly sat up. Max glanced at his wrist watch, knowing that he had to go run his errands before tonight. Kissing Liz once more, and then leaving her room, and walking across the hall, to her parents bedroom. Max took a deep breath and then knocked on the door. Within minutes Liz's mother opened the door. " Why hello Max." " Hello Mrs. Parker. I needed to speak with you and Mr. Parker." " Sure, he is in here. Come on in." Max gratefully nodded as he stepped inside, shutting the door behind him. Kyle was busy setting up the napkins, as he noticed that Tess was sulking in the nearby booth. " Hey Tess. Are you okay?" " No not really." " Tess listen you cant let the anger control your inner self. Find the center of happiness in your mind and let it settle." Tess began laughing. " Shutup Buddha Boy." Isabel turned to Michael. " Hey so how do we know if this is even okay?" " Max is suppose to let us know in about.." Just then Max came walking down the stairs with Liz's parents. " Hey Michael." " Yeah?" " So have you called Sheriff Valenti or Maria's mother?" Michael smiled and then nodded. " Right away." Michael turned to Isabel. " You heard the man." Isabel rolled her eyes and then walked over to the phone, calling Sheriff Valenti and Amy Deluca. Max began pacing back and forth, his hands sweating. " Hey guys, Iam going to go home and talk to mom and dad. I also have to change." Everyone nodded and then Max left in a hurry. Liz woke up, to find that Max wasn't there. " Max?" Liz sat up and then scanned the room. Where had he gone? Liz glanced at her nightable looking for some sort of a note, but there wasn't anything there. She quickly stood up and stretched. Liz was about to open her bedroom door, when Maria and Isabel had opened it for her. Isabel was the first to speak. " Where are you going?" " I was going to head downstairs." " NO!" Maria and Isabel screamed. Liz shot Maria and Isabel and startled look. " What's wrong with you guys?" Maria glanced over at Isabel and then to Liz. " Nothing. We just needed to talk to you." " About what?" " Well lets go in your room and stay there." " Maria, Isabel. Are you guys okay?" Isabel and Maria pushed Liz back into her room and then stepped in, shutting and locking the door. Max hurried home to find him mother and father sitting on the couch. " Mom, Dad." Max's mother, Diane smiled. " Hello honey." Max kissed his mother on the forehead and then nodded to his father, Phillip. " Mom, Dad, we need to talk." Phillip looked to Diane and then to Max. " Do you remember what we were talking about a couple of weeks ago, about Liz." Both of his parents nodded and then Max proceeded. " Well I have decided to do it tonight." Max's mom, Diane was thrilled with the news. She immediantly stood up and hugged Max. " Oh honey.Thats wonderful." Phillip also stood up and patted his son on the back. " It's about time." They all laughed and then Max excused himself to his bedroom so that he could change. Max had a permanent smile on his face. He was so excited about that evening. Max roamed through his closet, trying to find something nice to wear. After thirty minutes of debating what to wear he finally decided on a silk red shirt with a one inch slit, showing some of his chest. Also black pants that hung loosely, and his shiny black shoes. Max glanced in the mirror, nodded in approval and then left his room, heading downstairs. He patiently waited by the door for his parents and then they all departed for the Crashdown. MEANWHILE IN LIZ'S ROOM- Liz rolled her eyes and then turned to Maria and Isabel. " Okay you guys. You are being ridiculous. Why can't I leave my room?" Maria was searching through Liz's closet and Isabel continued to talk to Liz. " Liz, okay just trust us. Maria is looking for something for you to wear and then we are going to do your hair and makeup." " Why? For what?" " Trust us." Just then Maria screamed with excitement. " Liz this is it! This is what you are wearing." Maria and Isabel then smiled as they began to get Liz ready for the party. Kyle, Michael, Alex, Tess, Sheriff Valenti, Maria's mom Amy, and Liz's parents were visiting throughout the Crashdown as Max, and his parents walked in. Kyle, Alex, and Michael ran over to Max. Kyle began laughing and then spoke. " Max, how does it feel?" " How does what feel?" " In about mmm...less than an hour you are going to be an engaged man." " Kyle, it feels...great." " Liz and you, married." Max was about to respond, when Isabel and Maria came running down the stairs. Maria ran over to Max. " Okay she is coming!" Everyone focused their attention to the stairway. Liz cautiously walked down the stairs into the front of the Crashdown to see her family and friends staring at her with absurd looks on their faces. Liz was wearing nice black pants with her heels, and a dark green halter top. Her hair was in a high bun with a couple of loose strands lightly touching her neck. Liz glanced at eferyone, and then at Max. " Um..hi?" Max smiled knowing that Liz must be in utter confusion. He took a deep breath and then walked to her, taking her hand and then facing everyone. " I invited you all here tonight because I believe all of you to be important people in my life. Tonight is to be one of the most special nghts and I wanted to share it with all of you." Max then turned to Liz and kissed her, " I love you Liz." He then nodded to Alex, and music began to play. The song was " I Shall Believe", by Sheryl Crow. Max smiled and then faced Liz. " Liz Parker from the moment I met you. No from the moment I saw you, my heart melted and I knew that I was in love. You took my breath away. My life started that day.(Referring to the shooting.)" Liz nodded knowing what Max was referring to. " When I am not with you, I go crazy. My life dwindles into pure misery, but when you're here everything blooms. It's all magic when I think about you. I can't see my life without you in it. Whether I die tomorrow or 50yrs. from now my destiny is the same..it's you." Max then knelt down in front of Liz, taking her hand. " Elizabeth Parker will you marry me?" As he slid a diamond ring on her finger. Liz felt her knees buckle and her heart race. She had waited to hear Max say those words for as long as she could remember. Suddenly tears of happiness rolled down her eyes. Liz knelt down with in front of Max. " Max, you are the love of my life. Yes I will marry you." Everyone in the room began cheering, and opening champagne just as Max and Liz kissed. ----------------------------------------------- Michael, Maria, Alex, Kyle, Sheriff Valenti, Isabel, Amy Deluca, Liz and Max’s parents stood in the Crashdown feeling a little awkward, seeings how Max had proposed to Liz ten minutes ago, and they were still kissing. Michael cleared his throat loudly in hopes of stopping Max and Liz’s makeout session. Michael mumbled, “ Shit.” to himself and then spoke, “ Hey Gidget and Moondoggie!” Max and Liz let their lips rest as they realized that everyone was staring at them. Liz blushed and Max lightly laughed. “ Um...” Isabel understood that Max was uncertain of what to say so she quickly spoke, “ Hey lets celebrate!” As Maria, Kyle, and Alex grabbed prepared food from the kitchen. They brought out various dishes, resulting in ooh’s and aw’s. Everyone began laughing, celebrating, and eating. Diane and Phillip Evans walked up to Liz and Max. Diane hugged Liz, “ Oh sweetie, I always knew that you were special.” Liz smiled as Max spoke while looking in her eyes, “ Yes she is.” Isabel and Alex waved the engaged couple to come over. Max smiled as he walked towards Alex and Isabel, with his arms still wrapped around Liz. Isabel slapped her brother on his shoulder, “ Congratulations.” Max laughed. “ Thank Is.” Alex hugged Liz, “ You deserve this You have the right to be happy. Liz you are a wonderful person and my best friend.” “ Thank you Alex. I knew that we would always be friends.” Alex then pulled Mas aside, “ Take care of her. Don’t hurt her.” “ Never.” Alex nodded and then walked with Isabel over to the buffet table. Within seconds Maria was hugging Liz, and Michael was patting Max on the back. “ You lucky undeserving dog.” Max laughed. “ What.” “ I have two words for you.” “ Oh yeah whats that spaceboy.” Michael frowned and then continued. “ The honeymoon.” Max playfully hit Michael, and then Michael hit him back, laughing. The two of them continued to wrestle, when Diane walked over to them, clearing her throat, boys.” Max and Michael immediately stood up straight and mumbled sorry. Liz and the others couldn’t help, but laugh. Maria then turned to Liz. “ Liz, you fought for your and Max’s love even when the gerbil got in the way,but you two overcame all obstacles. I am so happy for you...” Maria couldn’t finish, because she then broke down in tears. Liz hugged Maria. “ Thank you....for everything.” Sheriff Valenti and Kyle walked up to Max. Sheriff Valenti spoke, “ Max, congratulations, and thank you for being a friend and letting me share this moment in your life. I need you to know that I will be here for you whenever you need me.” Max patted Sheriff Valenti and then hugged me, whispering, “ I thought I could return the favor as Max nodded towards Amy Deluca. Go get em Tiger!” ----------------------------------------------------- Sheriff Valenti laughed and then patted Max on the back. He then headed off in Amy's direction. Kyle laughed and nodded is head as he saw his father flirting with Maria's mom. Kyle sighed and then turned to the engaged couple. " Hey Max. Listen I know that we didn't meet on good terms, but I am glad that everything worked out the way it did." " Me too, Kyle." Kyle smiled and then faced Liz. " I knew the moment that Max entered your life that he was the one for you. Congratulations to the both of you." Liz smiled and then hugged Kyle, whispering in his ear, " Thank you." Kyle nodded once more to the both of them and then left to go see Tess. Liz wrapped her arms around Max's waist and looked up into his eyes. " That was very sweet of you. To invite Ms. Deluca for the sheriff's sake." Max smiled and brought Liz closer to him. Their lips barely touching, " Being with you made me realize what and how important love is. I just believe that everyone has the right to love and be loved." Liz brought one hand up and caressed Max's cheek. " I love you." " I love you." Max then kissed Liz. Bringing his voice to a whisper, " Liz I wish that we were alone right now, because I..." Liz pressed her lips to his and then spoke, " Later." Liz then brought her lips closer to his, so that they were just about to kiss. Just then Liz playfully pulled back and began walking over to Maria. Max pouted and then gave Liz an accusing look, " You're teasing me Parker." Liz glanced back at Max, and gave him a seductive smile. Max shook his head with a smile. He was about to claim his kiss, when Michael came up to him. " Whoa, horndoggie. I need to speak with you." Max nodded, giving Liz one more look and then followed Michael into the back of the Crashdown. " Michael, what's wrong?" Michael began pacing back and forth. " Max, what now?" Max raised an eyebrow, confused. " What do you mean?" " You and Liz. You two getting married." " Yeah?" " It's just so..." " Normal?" Michael nodded. " Listen Michael. No matter what happens with Liz. You, Isabel, and even Tess will always be a major part of my life." Michael nodded and then faced Max. " I know. Sorry." " Sure. Now how about coming with me and getting something to drink?" " Sure thing Maxwell. Now about your honeymoon...." " Michael!" While talking with Maria, and her parents, Liz noticed Tess slumped in a booth. Liz turned to her parents and Maria, " Excuse me." Liz then silently sat across from a crying Tess. " Tess?" " What?" " Are you okay?" " No Liz I am not." " Is there anything I can do..." Tess quickly sprang up and began yelling, just as Max and Michael walked back into the front of the Crashdown. " No Liz there isn't anything you can do. Max belongs with me. I am his destiny. Not you. Liz, you have screwed up everything!" Liz didn't know how to handle or take Tess's outburst. " Tess, I never meant to..." " Liz don't you remember what the future was if you married Max. Does the word destruction mean anything?!?" Before Liz knew it, tears were streaming down her eyes as she listened to Tess scream at her. Max immediately ran over to Tess. " Tess I want you to leave now!" Everyone was shocked at how angry Max's voice sounded. Liz suddednly began thinking about what future max had said, about the world ending because Tess left. Liz quickly blurted out, " No!" Max shook his head in disbelief. " What?" " Tess doesn't have to leave." Max stood in pure shock. " Liz." " No Max please?" Max sighed and then nodded. Max whispered in Tess's ear, " Thank you for ruining my night." Liz wiped her tears and then ran into the back room, and then upstairs to her room, shutting and locking the door. --------------------------------------------------- Max was pissed. He began to run after Liz, but turned and glared at Tess, " Why do you enjoy hurting us so much?" Not caring to hear her answer Max ran up the stairs and to Liz's door. He could easily hear her quiet sobs. Max hated to hear or see her hurting. He reached for the door knob, realizing that it was locked. No problem he thought as he pressed his hand against the lock, unlocking the door. Silently Max opened the door, and stepped in Liz's room, to see her curled up on her bed, crying. " Damn you Tess." Max mumbled to himself as he quietly walked over to her, sitting down next to her. " Liz, come here." Liz willingly laid her against Max's chest, his arms wrapped around her small body. " Liz it will be okay." Liz pulled away from Max, so that she was looking at him. " No Max it won't." " Liz, don't say that." " Max everything was going so wonderfully that I had forgotten what the outcome of us being together was. Just as the future you said, that our love destroyed..everything." Max cupped Liz's face in his hands, and boldy stated, " Never Liz. Never could our love doing anything that horrible." " Max, Tess..." " NO! Forget Tess. This has nothing to do with her. Our love has nothing to do with her. I won't let her ruin this for us. She can leave for all I care." " No Max, she can't leave." " What? Liz am I hearing you right?" " Max, you're angry." " Yes I am furious!" " Exactly. Max you're not thinking straight. If Tess leaves, then it will contribute to the end of the world" (I hated that episode). " Liz, okay so Tess won't leave, but I am with you and only you. I'll be damned if she tries to play that destiny crap with me. I was never in love with Tess, not in this life, not in a previous one. There has only been one me. You are who I love. I want to be with you Liz." " You always know how to make things right." " I could say the same to you. Please don't cry my love." Max began kissing her tears away, and then her lips. Liz moaned as she wrapped her arms around Max's neck, pulling him closer. Before either one of them knew it, Max was passionately kissing Liz, and hovering above her. Maria and the others were furious with Tess's behavior. Maria nodded at Kyle. " Do something." Kyle nodded and then took , Tess's hand leading her outside, to talk. Isabel turned to the obvious confused Parker's and her parents. Isabel cleared her throat and then spoke. " Um, you see Tess had a huge crush on Max..." The Parker's and Evan's nodded, showing that they understood. Isabel sighed with relief, glad that kept them from asking more questions. Michael walked up to Maria, Isabel, and Alex. " What a way to end a party huh? Poor Maxwell, he wasn't done surprising Liz." Isabel, Maria, and Alex immediately turned to Michael. Maria smiled and then spoke for everyone. " What else does he have planned?" Michael smiled. " Well, seeings how I am Max's best friend..I couldn't betray his trust now could I?" Maria playfully slapped Michael. " Jerk." " You know you love it." Max moaned as he kissed Liz's neck. He loved being intimate with her. Actually just holding her did it for him. Liz loved the smell of him. It made her body blush. Just then Liz remembered that their parents and friends were still down stairs. " Max." " Hmm...." Max continued to kiss and touch her. " Max we have to stop. We have company downstairs." " Michael will kick them out..." " Max, I am serious!" Max groaned in frustration. Unwillingly he sat up. " Liz do we have.." " Max." Liz giving him a serious look. Max nodded, knowing that she was right. They both stood up, Max holding Liz's hand they walked downstairs. Michael laughed at Isabel, Alex, and Maria's poor attempts to get him to spill. " Back off you maggots! Shit." Just then Max and Liz came downstairs. Max immediately laughed at the sight of Isabel, Maria,and Alex pestering Michael. Max walked over to Michael, and Liz walked over to their parents. " Michael?" " Oh thank God Maxwell." " What's going on?" " Ask them!" Michael quickly walked over to the other side of the Crashdown. Max laughed and then turned to Isabel, Maria, and Alex. " Guys?" Isabel put her hands on her hips. " Max what else do you have planned for Liz?" " Oh, so that's what you were bothering Michael about." " So what is it?" " Well if you must know...these past yrs. while I have been working at the Crashdown. I have been saving my paychecks." " For what?" " I bought Liz and I a nice apartment." Maria felt the excitement in her flooding. Max noticed this and ran over to her. " Don't you dare say a thing Maria!" Maria shook her head in agreement. " I won't. You can trust me." " That's what I am afraid of." Isabel was happy for Max, but a little lonely at the same time. " So you won't be at home anymore.." " Iz, don't worry. You will always be my sister." Isabel smiled. " I know." Max looked at his watch. Realizing that he had to show Liz the apartment soon, before it got completely dark. Max nodded to Isabel, Maria, and Alex. He then ran over to Liz and their parents. They all talked for at least 15min., but the Parker's and the Evans were getting tired. Max and Liz said goodbye to their parents and their friends. Liz was about to head upstairs, when Max grabbed her hand. " Parker, where do you think you're going?" Liz smiled at him, and then wrapped her arms around his neck. " Well I thought we were going to go upstairs, and finished what we started?" Max was at the brink of following her upstairs, but kept his cool. " I have a better idea." " Hmm...really what's that?" " Follow me." Max took her hand and they then hopped in the Jeep, and left the Crashdown. ------------------------------------------------- Max had been driving for at 15min, with Liz as his passenger. Tonight he had a gift for her. For them. Liz smiled and then moved closer to Max. " So Max. Where are you taking me?" Max smiled and then glanced at Liz. " Listen here Parker. We aren't going to get anywhere with you being that close to me." Liz seductively whispered in his ear. " Promise." Max began to squirm in his seat, uncomfortably. He knew that if Liz didn't stop that he wouldn't make it to the apartment. Max took a deep breath, and tried to pretend that Liz wasn't so close to him. Wait! What was he thinking? Was he crazy? There was no way in hell, that Max could pretend that Liz wasn't there. His insides burned with passion, everytime she was near. Just the thought of her alone was enough to drive him crazy. He would have pulled over, if they hadn't reached the apartment. Liz noticed that Max was pulling into an apartment parking lot. Why was he bringing her here? Max parked in lot 47. He then unbuckled his seat belt,and cupped Liz's face in his hands. Kissing her fiercely. " Come here." Liz giggled. " Mr. Control huh?" Max laughed and then continued to kiss Liz. She wrapped her arms around his neck. " Hmm...so is this the surprise? If so, then it was worth it." Max smiled. " Just wait." He unlocked the Jeep door,and stepped out, also helping Liz out. Hand in hand they walked up the rail stairs to apartment 47. Max pulled a key out of his shirt pocket, unlocking the door. Liz laughed and whispered in his ear. " Did you really need to use that." Max turned and lightly kissed her. " I guess not." Before Max let Liz in, he lifted her into his arms. Liz was caught off guard. " Max! Max, what are you doing?" Max loved seeing Liz, unsure. She was so cute. Max began laughing. " I am practicing for our wedding day." Liz laid her head against Max's neck. He carried her into the apartment room, to hear Liz gasp with excitement. " Liz Parker, I present to you...our home." Max gently put Liz down. She was overcome with excitement. Liz brought her hands to her face. " Oh Max." Max stood behind her with a smile, that would melt a million hearts. He loved seeing Liz happy. That alone made his life complete. " You like it?" Liz turned around and leaped into Max's arms. Wrapping her arms around his neck,and covering his mouth with hers. Max was shocked. He never imagined Liz to be so forceful, but he had to admit. He liked it, a lot! Max quickly let their lips part, as he whispered, " Why don't we finish this in the bedroom?" Liz lightly laughed. " Good Idea." Max lifted Liz into his arms, leading her into the bedroom and shutting the door. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EARLY MORNING- Liz stirred before she fully woke up, finding herself in her fiance's arms. She smiled as she began to kiss his neck. " Max, we have to get up." Max playfully smiled and groaned as he buried his head in her neck, mumbling, " I was hoping to stay here with you." Liz began playing with his hair and lightly laughed. " Max our shifts start soon. We open the Crashdown today, along with Michael and Maria." " Did you say Michael and Maria? Opening with us?" Liz laughed again. " Yes?" " I had better bring the tylenol." Max then lifted his head, so that his lips met hers. Liz wrapped her arms around Max's neck, kissing him back. " Hmm..Max I love you." " I love you too." Max began nibbling on her neck, but Liz quickly stopped him. " No Max. We have to stop or we'll never get to work." Max groaned in frustration. " I know." Max and Liz relunctantly jumped out of bed, and began getting dressed. Liz raised her eyebrow in confusion. " Max?" " Hmm?" " When did you have time to bring all of our things from our former homes to the apartment?" Max smiled and then walked over to her. " Did I mention that you take really long naps, and with the help of the others, it wasn't a problem." Max then pulled Liz closer to him. " Besides I wanted our lives to began in our new home a.s.a.p." " Thank you." " For what?" " Everything, for every kiss and smile." " No thank you." Max then leaned in and kissed her lips once more before they heading out to work. AT THE CRASHDOWN- Michael was warming up the grill as Maria prepared the register and tables. " Michael when you're done. I need you to help me put the chairs down." " Maria I'm busy." " Figures." Michael threw his hands up in the air. " What? Huh? What now?" " Forget it." " Consider it done." " How can you be so rude?" " It's nearly 8A.M. and I am standing here listening to you bitch. You do the math." " I swear one of these days.." " Maria save it." Just then Max and Liz entered from the back of the Crashdown. Maria and Michael sighed with relief. Michael quickly spoke, " Thank you Maxwell. Finally someone to talk too without losing my mind." Maria glared at him. " Ditto." Maria quickly ran over to Liz, and pulled her aside. " Thank God you are here. Now I want all the details about you and Max's new place! " Liz laughed. " Okay." Liz and Max exchanged loving looks as they began to comfort their nerve wrecking friends. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Liz sighed and then turned her look from Max to Maria. " Okay Maria. So what do you want to know?" " Everything." " Well it has three bedrooms." " What three bedrooms? Why so many?" Liz laughed. " I don't know. I guess in case we have company or something. Anyway it has a cute little kitchen centered in the apartment, with two bathrooms." " It sounds adorable. Max made such an effort. Unlike another Czechoslavakian I know." " Maria, Max and Michael are opposites." " I know. I just wish Michael would act like he loves me." " Maria, don't even say that. I know Michael cares deeply for you." " What would I do without you?" " Lets not find out." Maria and Liz laughed and then continued setting the tables." Max began working on the register, as Michael spoke. " What the hell is wrong with her?" Max laughed and the responded. " Michael, maybe she just wants some attention." " Attention? What the hell do you mean?" " Show her that you care. That you love her." " Well how do you do that?" " Be honest. Express your feelings to her like she is the only one and thing that you want and need.." Max's eyes locked on Liz as he says this. Michael notices this and rolls his eyes. " Oh give me a break Maxwell." " Huh, did you say something?" Michael sighs and then continues to heat up the grill. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30 MINUTES LATER. Max, Maria, and Liz hurriedly moved throughout the Crashdown, taking and delivering orders. The place was packed. Max found himself staring at Liz periodically throughout the day. He couldn't keep his eyes off of her, and it was apparent that his body cried for her. Michael ran back and forth throughout the kitchen, cooking the orders. " Shit. Does it have to be so busy." Just then Maria came up to the counter. " Hey Spaceboy." " What?" " Where is my order?" " It's still cooking." Maria was about to complain,but decided that Michael was hurrying and there was no reason for her to add anymore stress to the situation. " Okay, Thank you." Michael was appauled by Maria's response. He was expecting her to bitch and complain. " Here's your order. Sorry for the wait." " No problem." Maria smiled as she left. Michael smiled as he watched her leave. Liz rushed from table to table, utterly and completely exhausted. As she was walking to back to the kitchen counter she felt someone brush up against her. Liz glanced to her side to see Max. Her body had known it was him from the moment he touched her,but Liz had to take advantage of the situation to look into his dreamy eyes. Max had to touch her. He leaned over and whispered in her ear," Back of the Crashdown.." Liz smiled and nodded. The two of them quickly finished their orders and ran into the back of the Crashdown. Max immediately pushed Liz up against the wall, and began kissing her. Liz moaned, which in response to Max deepened their kiss. Suddenly Liz began recieving flashes.... * Max and Tess kissing passionatly. * Max and Tess kissing outside in the rain. Liz quickly broke the kiss and feeling hurt looked at Max. Max knew something was wrong. " Liz? What is it?" " You and Tess?" -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Max shook his head, obviously confused. " What? Liz, what do you mean?" Liz couldn't help, but feel hurt. She knew that if she were to dwell on Max kissing Tess that she would break down into tears, and that was something Liz didn't want to do. Max sighed and then attempted again, when Liz didn't answer him. " Liz, please. Tell me what's wrong." Liz shuddered and then finally responded. " When you and I were kissing I had a flash of you and Tess...kissing." Max was in complete and utter shock. " What?!?" Liz stepped away from Max. She had to ask him something. Liz had to know. " Max when I was gone. I mean away at college. Did you and Tess...Max did you kiss her?" Max was deeply hurt by Liz's question. " How could you even ask me something like that? Don't you trust me? "This isn't a matter of whether I trust you or not." " Oh so then tell me Liz what is it?" " Max there hasn't been a time when the flashes haven't meant anything. They always mean or stand for something. I need to know why or for what reason I got the images.." Liz's voice softened and the hurt in her in her voice was now obvious to Max. "...of you kissing her." Max groaned and then brushed his hands through his hair. " No, I mean. I don't know." " Max you either did or you didn't!" " Okay! Michael threw a party at our house when you and the others were gone. I drank a little.." Liz silently nodded, as unwanted tears streamed heavily down her cheeks. She remembered in her flash that Tess was wearing a red dress and that her and Max were standing in a bedroom. " Do you remember what Tess was wearing at that party?" Max not letting his eye's leave hers, tried to remember. " Liz I don't know nor do I care." " Max what was she wearing?" " I don't know! Uh, a red dress. I don't know." Liz took another step away from him and gasped. Max angrily sighed and then approached her. " Liz I wasn't thinking clearly. It didn't mean anything." -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Just then Maria began to wander into the back of the Crashdown, but stopped as Liz and Max's yelling became more apparent. Maria turned around, just as Kyle and Tess entered the Crashdown. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Liz looked at Max in disbelief. " You weren't thinking clearly?" " Liz I had been drinking. Alcohol effects us differently." " Okay first off, if you were so drunk then how come you were able to remember what Tess was wearing? Secondly, don't use you being alien as an excuse. Whether you want to admit it or not, you, Isabel, Michael,and...Tess aren't that much more different than Alex, Kyle, Maria, or me." " Damn it Liz. I love you and I know you love me. I don't even know what happened that night,but whatever it was it was a stupid and sick mistake and I know that.Tess means nothing to me other than an allie. You have to have faith in me. In us." Liz silently shuddered, as new tears fell from her eyes. Quietly she spoke, " I can't help, but wonder if these are signs...that you and Tess..." Max wouldn't dare let her finish. He quickly walked over to her and put his hands on her shoulders. " No! You are my one and only soulmate. I don't care about Tess or my destiny. Please believe me!" Liz whimpered as she spoke, " I believe you." Max now also crying, pulled her into his arms and held on tight. " Max promise me something." Max still holding her, responded, " Anything." " Please don't ever leave me for her..I couldn't (behr) to lose you." " Never. Liz, I love you." " I love you too." -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tess and Kyle were sitting at the usual booth. Kyle noticed that Tess was in a deep think. " Tess are you okay?" " Oh, yeah." Tess then began thinking to herself. Me giving Liz those fake flashes and giving Max those fake memories was only the beginning of their breakup. Tess smiled as she poured Tabasco sauce on her sundae. tbc