My Life Before I Met You Series

AUTHOR*BEKKI AEBISCHER

SUMMARY* THIS TAKES PLACE DURING THE LIVES OF LIZ, MARIA, ALEX, ISABEL, MICHAEL, AND MAX BEFORE AND AFTER THE SHOOTING. THERE WILL BE SIMILARITIES BUT OVERALL THE PLOT WILL BE DIFFERENT.

DISCLAIMER* I DONT OWN ROSWELL OR ANY OF THE CHARACTERS. THEY BELONG TO JASON KATIMS AND MELINDA METZ. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MONDAY,AUGUST 14,1999( 5:45 P.M.)

Liz Parker sat on her rooftop in her lawnchair as she began to write in her journal. Liz was always faithful when it came to writing her in diary. No wait Journal. Unlike many people who labeled a book that you write your personal thoughts in as a diary. Liz called it her journal. Because her dream profession to become a Molecular Biologist wrote their thesis and hypothesis in a journal. As she pulled the blanket up around her Liz continued to write:

Dear Journal,

My name is Liz Parker and today is Monday, August 14, 1999. Not much of interest has happened today. Not that it ever does. My life is...well to sum it up, boring. Today was like anyother day. I woke up at 8 A.M. to get ready for work. My parents own the Cafe named the Crashdown and since we live above it there was no need for me to hurry. Once I finished getting ready I ran downstairs to my work locker to grab my name tag when my best friend Maria came walking in through the back door. She also worked with me at the Crashdown and as usual she was complaining about the male species. Her antics and theories are so amusing. Another reason on why she is my best friend. Throughout the day we continued to work and gossip in between orders when my other best friend, Alex came by. He ordered the usual, an Alien smoothie. Besides that not much happened. Oh and yes Kyle Valenti and I are still going out. We met at a football game and he was really sweet. Later that week he asked me to the movies and we hit it off. I mean don't get me wrong Kyle is great, but I don't feel for him. I don't know how to explain it. He is like an Alex, but I kiss him. No wait he isn't even like Alex, for I can tell Alex anything. I don't know what he is. There was one good thing though...I mean if you can even call it that. Max Evans and his sister Isabel Evans came by today for lunch. I mean now that I think about it he always comes by the Cafe. You are probably wondering why I am even talking about Max. I mean the guy and I don't even talk. I don't know there is just something about him. Especially his eyes. I could get lost in them. Oh I am sorry but I have to go. Alex and Maria are in my room now waiting for me. I think we are going to go catch a movie or something.

Your devoted writer,

Liz Parker

Liz closed her journal and then slipped out from under her blanket as she stood up and walked over to her window. She then crawled in to find Alex and Maria sitting on her bed. Liz tucked a strand of hair behind her her ear and smiled, " Hey guys."

Alex smiled and then laid back on Liz' s bed. " So Liz what is the plan for tonight anyway?"

Maria rolled her eyes and then playfully slapped Alex. " Hello Alex! Earth to Alex! We were going to see a movie remember." " I knew that. What movie?" " Hmm..as long as there is a hot guy as the lead..."

Liz shook her head and began brushing her hair as she said, " Hey maybe we could go to the party Kyle was talking about at the Warehouse outside of town." Maria stood up and eyed Liz with curiousity.

" What kind of party?"

" Um, I don't know. Kyle wasn't very specific. I think it's like a last celebration before school starts."

" This could be fun, but I am going to have to go home and change first."

" Change? Why? You look fine." Maria shook her head no.

" Liz this is a party which means men." Liz laughed.

" Well you could borrow something of mine?" Maria smiled and then ran over to Liz's closet and began rummaging through her clothes.

Alex sat up and rubbed the back of his neck and asked, " So what is up with you and Kyle anyway. Are you guys serious?" Liz turned around and faced him.

" Um no. I mean it's not even like that. He is fun and I like hanging around him. Why?"

" I don't know."

" No Alex. What?"

" You just don't seem happy with him."

" I am. I think. I don't know it's complicated."

" What isn't?" Liz smiled and then asked.

" What about you? I mean who is your next love prospect?"

" I don't like anyone. I am just content with you two lovely ladies."

" Alex seriously?"

" Well..Isabel Evans is really really hot, but I am just an observer."

While Maria was looking for an outfit she heard Alex mention Isabel's name. She then asked, " Isabel Evans? I don't know she bothers me."

Liz raised an eyebrow and asked, " Really why?"

" I don't know. She just seems somewhat full of herself." Liz and Alex laughed. Maria then said, " Maybe she will be there. Then you could be an observer, Alex." Liz and Maria began giggling as Alex mocked them.

" Yeah guys that is really funny. Ha. Ha. Ha. Yeah laugh it up."

Liz began applying her lipstick when she slyly asked, " Do you think her brother will be there?" Alex and Maria both eyed Liz.

Maria then said, " Ooh Liz. Do I detect that you have some interest in Max Evans?" Liz turned around and defensively said, " No. God I barely even know the guy. Besided I have Kyle. " Alex and Maria exchanged disgusted looks. Liz made a face and the said, " Guys we had better get going." Alex and Maria nodded as the three of them finished getting ready and headed out to the Warehouse.

AT THE EVANS~

Max sat in on his bed, in his bedroom listening to the Counting Crows. He always listened to the Counting Crows when he was upset or in a deep think. You see Max, his sister Isabel, and their friend Michael were aliens. Throughout Max's life he was forced to shut people out in fear that they would find out his secret. That alone made him miserable. Don't get it wrong he loved Isabel and Michael, but he needed more. Max didn't dare tell Isabel or Michael how he felt for he knew that they would take it the wrong way and get hurt. Then it would take him forever to prove it otherwise to them. Luckily school was starting in a couple of weeks and he would be able to sociate with people to some degree. There was one person in particular that he looked forward to seeing. Even though he couldn't actually speak to her. Her name was Liz Parker. Ever since he had stepped off the school bus in the third grade and laid eyes on her. He knew that was special. His heart from then on was allowed to feel. At that moment he wanted to tell her everything about who he was, but he knew that was impossible. It wasn't just him who he was sharing the secret with. Just then his sister rudely walked in.

" Max." Max sighed and then said, obviously annoyed.

" Could you please knock?"

" Whatever anyway are you coming?"

" Where?"

" The party?"

" No and neither should you. I thought we agreed to lay low."

" Max I am going to a party not tellling everyone I am an alien." Max shook his head and sighed. " I know."

" Max this music is only going to make you feel worse."

" Listen go to the party and have a good time. Don't worry about me."

" Michael is going."

" He is?"

" Yeah. You should to."

" I dont' think so. I am tired anyway."

" Okay I will see you later then."

" Bye."

" Bye." Isabel shut his bedroom door and then headed out to the party.

MONDAY,AUGUST 14,1999( LATER THAT EVENING) ISabel shook her head and smiled, " How nice of you to meet me at my car." Michael rolled his eyes and jumped in the car.

" Don't start with me. Hey where is Maxwell?"

" He didn't want to go."

" That's probably a good thing."

" Wait, why do you say that?"

" Oh come on. HIs obsession with making new friends and his interest for a certain brunette we know. It's better if he stays away from her."

" I want Max to be happy, but I agree. So um by the way. What made you change your mind about coming?"

" Hey someone has to keep an eye on you."

" Whatever." Isabel laughed and then pulled out of the trailer park and onto the road as she headed towards the Warehouse outside of town.

Liz, Alex, and Maria sped down the road towards the warehouse as they continued to discuss Liz and Kyle's "relationship". Maria, keeping her eyes on the road, began speaking,

" Liz I mean. What is going on with you and Mr. Football anyway?" Liz shrugged her shoulders as she tucked a strand of hair back behind her ear.

" Guys I am being completely honest with you. When I say that Kyle and I really aren't that serious. I mean I like to hang out with him, but that's it. Now that I think about it we really aren't going out."

" Yeah, yeah whatever."

Alex laughed and then leaned in from the backseat. " I don't know about you guys, but I am sure looking forward to this party."

Liz smiled and then whipped around in her seat so that she was facing Alex. " Such a cute observer you are. " Alex frowned.

" Ha. Ha. You are so funny." Liz playfully slapped Alex.

" Seriously Alex. Why don't you talk to Isabel?"

" Yeah and why don't you dump Kyle?"

" Shut up!" Maria began laughing as they pulled into the crowded so called parking lot. It was actually a lot of land where everyone was parking their cars. Maria pulled up beside Kyle's car and turned to Liz, smiling. Liz made a face and then unbuckled her seatbelt and began getting out with Alex and Maria following.

Liz stepped out of the Jetta to immediately feel the cool breeze linger above her bare shoulders. She was wearing a red spaghetti strapped top and black pants.

Alex was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and dark jeans with his chain dangling from his pants. He then realized that Liz was cold.

" Liz do you want my sweatshirt?" Liz smiled and shook her head no.

" No, but thank you. I am sure once we get inside I will warm up."

Maria was the last one to jump out of the Jetta. She then locked the doors. Maria was wearing a purple top with a black mini-skirt. She then joined Alex and Liz. They then briskly walked into the loud crowded building. As soon as they stepped inside the echos of loud music and bright lights became more apparent. People were everywhere dancing, making out, drinking, and acting like fools. Liz was following Maria and Alex into the crowd when someone grabbed her from around the waist. She defensively turned around, but a smile came to her face when she saw that it was only Kyle.

Kyle held her as he said, " I am glad that you decided to come."

" Uh yeah me too." Kyle leaned in and kissed her. Liz kissed him back, but then pulled away. Before Kyle could question her actions she quickly grabbed his hand and led him to the dance floor. " Come on Kyle. Let's dance."

" Mmm.k."

Maria and Alex saw Liz and Kyle dancing out of the corner of their eyes. Alex motioned that he was going to throw up. Maria playfully slapped him and grabbed his hand. " Come on Whitman."

" Huh? Me? Dance?"

" Isabel is never going to fall for a wallflower."

" True. Okay let's go." Maria laughed and her and Alex hit the dance floor.

Isabel and Michael arrived ten minutes later. They too were startled by the loud music and bright lights. MIchael rolled his eyes and turned to Isabel.

" This is stupid." Isabel put her hands on her hips and stated.

" You didn't have to come. You could have hung out with Max and sing The Counting Crows." Michael clenched his jaw and muttered.

" Shut up."

Maria caught sight of Isabel Evans and some guy. Alex noticed that Maria was staring at someone or something. He quickly followed her gaze to see Isabel with some guy. Maria then said,

" Who is with Isabel?"

Alex lowered his gaze. " I don't know."

" Well whoever he is. I mean he sure has a horrible sense of style. I mean he has the cute rebel look, bnt he could totally use a Maria makeover."

" Why don't you go offer?"

" Forget it. Besides he gives me the creeps."

Michael immediately noticed that a cute blonde and tall thin guy were staring at him and Isabel. Michael hit Isabel's shoulder and pointed over to the dancing duo. " Hey who are they? "

" Um the blonde? I am not sure but I know she hangs out with the Parker girl. Same goes for the guy. HIs name is Alec."

" Interesting."

" Come on. I am thirsty."

" So?"

" Michael?!?" Michael threw his hands up in the air and defensively asked, " What?" Isabel rolled her eyes and grabbed Michael's arm leading him over to the refreshments.

AT THE EVANS~

Max had listened to his Counting Crows cd three times since Isabel had left. He finally turned his cd player off and stood up. Max sighed and walked over to his bed and laid down, putting his arms behind his head. Max laid there as he stared at the ceiling, thinking. What was this? Could he really call what he was living a life? Max wouldn't wish his situation upon anyone. He really wished he could find someone who could learn to accept him. Care for him? But he knew that could never happen. If he were to ever tell anyone that he was alien, they would turn and run, screaming. Who knows who they would tell? So he would continue to hide from the outside world even if his heart cried.

55 MINUTES LATER~

Liz sighed with exhaustion as her and Kyle sat down. They had been dancing to the wild music for who knows how long. " Thank you Kyle. I had a really great time tonight."

" So did I." Kyle began kissing her neck. Liz bit her lip and then stood up. " Listen I should really get going. I mean I have work tomorrow."

" Oh yeah. Hey I will come by and see you."

" Um yeah okay great. That would be great." Liz frowned for she felt as if she was telling herself this more than Kyle.

Kyle stepped closer to her and kissed her. Liz kissed him back, realizing that she wasn't really feeling anything for him. She couldn't explain it. Something just wasn't right. Just then Maria and Alex came up behind her, asking Liz if she was ready to leave. Liz turned to them and smiled, " Yeah let's get outta here." Alex put two thumbs up and Maria nodded. Liz said goodbye to Kyle and then began walking out.

Maria was in front of Liz and Alex when she felt someone run in to her. Maria glanced over to see the creepy guy, Isabel was with earlier. She then put her hands on her hips and said, " Hey excuse you."

Michael was already annoyed. " For what?"

" You just ran into me."

" So get over it."

" Jerk."

" Bitch."

Maria was about to hit him when Liz grabbed her. " No Maria. He isn't worth your time." Maria nodded, but continued to glare at Michael as they walked out of the warehouse.

Michael shrugged his shoulders and clenched his jaw as he muttered, " Humans."

AT THE EVANS HOUSE~

Max was startled out of his thinking when his mother, Diane entered his room. " Max honey?" Max sighed and then sat up as he put on a fake smile.

" Yeah mom?"

" I just wanted to let you know that I was on my way out."

" Oh where are you going?"

" I am going to stop by the store and grab some half n half for my coffee." Max rubbed the back of his neck and quickly stood up.

" Mom why don't you let me go get it for you?"

" Are you sure?"

" Yeah. Besides I kind of wanted to get out of the house anyway."

" Thank you."

" Welcome mom."

Max grabbed the Jeep keys off of his dresser and then walked over to his mother, kissing her on the cheek. She then handed him some money. Max nodded and then headed out of his room and out of the front door.

Liz, Maria, and Alex were on their way home from the party when Maria swore under her breath. " Damn."

Alex raised an eyebrow and leaned towards the front. " Maria what is wrong?"

" We have to pull over."

" Uh why?"

" I don't know my radiator must be overheating."

As Maria pulled over to the side of the road, Alex and Liz sighed in frustration when they saw smoke coming out from Maria's hood. Liz ran her fingers through her hair and asked, " Now what are we going to do?" Maria bit her lip and nodded. " Wait we can use your cell phone."

" I didn't bring it with me. Don't you have yours?"

" No the battery went dead."

Alex rubbed his eyes and groaned. " Great. This is just dandy."

Liz began to unbuckle her seatbelt when Maria questioned.

" What are you doing?"

" There has to be someone that can help us. I am going to go wave somebody down."

" Like hell you are."

" Maria?"

" Liz there are weirdos out there."

" What an alien?"

" You never know. We do live in Roswell." Liz rolled her eyes and stepped out of the smoking Jetta. She then walked over to the egde of the road waiting for someone to drive by.

Max waited patiently to pay for the half n half. After ten minutes it was his turn. He sighed and then handed the cashier the half n half. As soon as Max had paid he then darted out of the grocery store and to his Jeep. Quickly he pulled out of the parking lot and down the road.

Liz wrapped her arms around her waist in hopes of keeping the cold air off of her body. She waited impatiently for someone to drive by. Everytime Liz saw headlights she quickly began waving, but each car continued to drive. She was about to give up all hope when another pair of car headlights came into view. Liz began waving her arms, frantically as she yelled, " Hey please help us!!"

A smile lit her face when the vehicle slowed down and pulled up behind the Jetta. Liz smiled and ran over to the person, as Maria and Alex hopped out of the Jetta. LIz rubbed her hands together as the person stepped out of the Jeep. Her eye's widened with excitement and nervousness. It was Max. Max Evans.

Max took a deep breath and shoved his hands in his pockets.

" Hey I noticed that you needed help?" Liz nodded, for she was unable to say anything. Why? Liz had no idea. After a few minutes Liz regained her composure,

" Yeah thanks. I mean we did. We do. It's the car." Max smiled at her nervousness.

" Let me take a look." Max then brushed pass Liz, Alex, and Maria as he made his way to the Jetta. He then lifted the hood and secretly waved his hand over the engine and radiator, molding the loose parts and tubes together. Max then shut the hood and turned to Liz.

" You just needed to tighten the radiator tube."

Maria and Alex walked over to Max and thanked him before getting into the Jetta. Liz nodded and crossed her arms as she slowly approached Max. " Thank you." Max nodded as his eyes met hers. That's when it hit her. Max Evans made her feel in a way that she couldn't describe. His eyes were incredible. Liz had never felt this way about anyone before. She shook her head, knowing that what she was thinking was crazy. Liz had barely ever even said a word to Max. He was almost a stranger.

Max nodded. " Sure. Uh, I'd better go." He then quickly brushed pass her and jumped into his Jeep. Max then started the Jeep and pulled off the side of the road. A smile spread across Max' s face as he whispered, " Thank you Liz Parker for making me feel human. For letting my heart feel even if it only lasted a second."

EVEN LATER THAT EVENING~( 10:38 P.M.)

Liz ran into the Crashdown after Maria and Alex had dropped her off. As she entered the building Liz was caught off guard when she found her parents sitting at one of the booths, waiting for her. Liz half smiled.

“ Hi mom, dad.” Liz’s father, Jeff stood up and crossed his arms.

“ Why are you late?”

“ Oh no Dad. It wasn’t my fault.” Jeff sarcastically laughed and then crossed his arms. “ Really? Well then enlighten me.”

“ Maria’s car broke down.”

“ It broke down?”

“ Yes and we were on the side of the road.”

“ Oh my God and you didn’t call me? Who knows what freaks are out this time of night!”

“ I didn’t have my cell phone and Maria’s battery was dead.”

“ How did you get home?”

“ Someone helped us.”

“ Who?”

“ Oh um this guy I know from school.”

Liz’s mother, Nancy then stood up and pulled Liz into her arms for a hug as she said, “ Just be careful. We worry.”

“ I know mom, but I am fine. I just really want to get some sleep.”

“ Okay goodnight.”

“ Night.” Liz then walked over to her father, kissing him on the cheek. “ Night Dad.”

“ Good night Lizzie.”

Liz turned and secretly cringed. She hated it when her Dad called her Lizzie. Quickly she ran upstairs and to her room. Liz then shut and locked her door before falling onto her bed with an everlasting grin. Knowing what she needed to do, Liz opened her dresser door and grabbed her black bound journal. It was time to write. She then opened her window and crawled out onto the roof. As soon as she sat down on her lawnchair and pulled her pink blanket up around her. Immediately Liz opened her journal and began writing, using the pen that she slid inside the journal.

Dear Journal,

It’s me Liz again. It is now 10:48 P.M. There was something that happened tonight that I had to tell you about. Okay as you know I was planning on going out with Alex and Maria. We decided to go the party at the warehouse instead of going to a movie. Kyle had told me about it. Yes Kyle, but we don’t need to talk about him right now. So anyway the party was okay. I mean I had fun. Then Kyle kissed me and the weird thing is...nothing happened. I mean I didn’t feel anything for him. Why? My feelings that I thought I had for him are dwindling. I am so confused. So after the party Maria, Alex, and I were on our way home when the Jetta broke down. I didn’t have my cell phone and Maria’s was dead. So I stood outside and tried to wave someone down. After awhile I grew tired of being ignored so I began walking back to the car when another vehicle came into view. Immediatley I ran back over and began waving my hands. Surprisingly the person stopped and guess who it was....MAX EVANS! I don’t have a clue as to why I am so excited about this, but I am. He barely even said anything to me, but these feelings I had. They were indescribable. I mean it’s not like anything would ever happen. He doesn’t even talk to me and there is no way. That Max Evans would want me. I have Kyle and he is wonderful. Besides I don’t even think Max is my type. Listen I am really really tired so I will write you again tomorrow.

Love Always,

Liz Parker

AUGUST 15,1999( 9 A.M.)~

Max woke up to the sound of his alarm clock. He groaned as he slowly rolled over and reached his arm out, pounding on the snooze button. Why was Max getting up so early on a no school day? He wanted to be ready and prepared for the school year to come. Something that he was ready for. He needed to get out of the house and away from Isabel and Michael. Most importantly to see Liz. Max sat up and began rubbing his eyes when Isabel came storming through his bedroom door.

" Good morning Max!" Max threw his hands on his lap and eyed Isabel, obviously annoyed.

" From now on if you feel it neccesary to see me the knock before coming in."

" Oh Max don't be such a grump. Anyway breakfast is ready."

" I am not hungry." Isabel crossed her arms and eyed Max.

" Liar."

" Listen I was planning on going out and getting something to eat later."

" At the Crashdown."

" I didn't say that."

" You didn't have to. Liz Parker works there." Max clenched his jaw and threw his covers off as he jumped out of bed. He then ran his fingers through his hair and then grabbed his towel off of his bed post.

" I am going to take a shower."

" Max, we aren't done talking." Max turned to Isabel and sighed.

" I am not in the mood to hear anymore of your lectures."

"I am sick and tired of you playing with our lives."

" Oh give it a rest Isabel. I did no such thing and you know that."

Max shook his head and headed into the bathroom and slamming the door shut. Isabel crossed her arms and shook her head. Max couldn't get close to Liz not to anyone.

AT THE CRASHDOWN~

Liz and Maria had been waiting tables for quite sometime. Unlike other days the Crashdown was crowded and facing a packed breakfast rush. Maria and Liz exchanged exhausted looks as they passed one another. They had been running back and forth serving and taking orders like there was no tomorrow. Sure they were glad that the business was booming,but why did it have to be during their work hours? There were other people working such as Agnes, Julie, Jose, Pedro, and Liz's father but even with them the need to hurry was overwhelming.

Maria ran over to the kitchen counter. " Hey Jose do you have my order?" Jose smiled and winked.

" Soon senorita, soon." Maria sighed and waited impatiently for her order to be done. As she was doing this Liz came running over also needing her order for table 5. Maria laughed and turned to Liz.

" Watch it babe. My order comes first." Liz made a face and laughed.

" Works for me. I needed a break anyway. Phew it is a monster out there."

" I know. "

" Maria maybe I shouldn't take Max the pie. I mean we barely know one another."

" Liz, you two not knowing eachother didn't stop him from helping us."

" Yeah you are right. I'll do it."

Just then Jose set a plate up on the counter. " Table 5's order is up!" Maria scoffed.

" Wait a minute. My order for tabel 8 was to be first!" Jose laughed and shrugged his shoulders. Liz sighed sympathetically and then grabbed the plates of food and walked out to table 5.

AT THE EVANS~

Max had just finished getting dressed when Michael knocked on his bedroom window. Max glanced over and then walked to the window, opening it and letting Michael in.

" Hey Michael. Is everything okay?"

" Hey yeah it's just fine Maxwell. Where are you going?"

" Um no where." Michael eyed Max in disbelief and then crossed his arms.

" Hey don't go screwing things up." Max shook his head and sighed in frustration. " I am not doing anything. Why can't you and Isabel see that?!?"

" Just don't get to close." Max rolled his eyes and then sat down on his bed. Realizing that going to the Crashdown was just plain and stupid. He would just eat at home.

AT THE CRASHDOWN~

Jeff Parker glanced down at his watch, realizing that Maria and Liz's shifts were ending. The morning rush had calmed down quiet a bit and the girls had worked well. Jeff rubbed his chin and then yelled to Liz and Maria.

" Lizzie! Maria!"

Maria and Liz exchanged confused looks before running over to Mr. Parker. Liz shrugged her shoulders and looked to father. " Dad what's going on?"

" Why don't you and Maria go out and do something?"

" What? You mean?"

" Yeah go before I change my mind." Liz bit her lip and smiled as she wrapped her arms around her dad, giving him a hug. Maria and her then ran into the back of the Crashdown, laughing.

Liz removed her apron and then glanced over at Maria. " Oh um what kind of pie do you think I should give Max?"

" Um...I have no idea. Does he ever order any?"

" Yeah he likes Berry pie." Maria eyed Liz supiciously. Liz knew exactly what Maria was thinking and she quickly shook her head.

" No Maria I don't like him." Maria threw her hands up in the air and mocked,

" Okay Okay I believe you." Liz rolled her eyes and smiled as she ran upstairs to change.

15 MIN. LATER~

Maria paced back and forth waiting impatiently for Liz to change. Finally she saw Liz walking down the stairs. She was wearing a long baby pink skirt with a creme top that revealed her tummy and neck area. Her hair was worn down and it was obvious that Liz was excited about heading over to Max's house. Maria laughed and then remarked, " Girl you look good." Liz blushed and tucked a strand of hair back behind her ear.

"Thank you." Liz then ducked into the front of the Crashdown, grabbing a boxed Berry Pie. Quickly she then ran back to Maria and then they left the Crashdown.

20 MINUTES LATER(AT THE EVANS)~

Max knew it was pointless to go anywhere, knowing that Michael and Isabel would follow him. He felt as if he was caged. Like he would never be able to live life again. Not that he ever had gotten the chance. Isabel was in her room with the door open and Michael was pacing back and forth throughout the hallway. Max sat up and began thinking. What was he a prisoner now in his own home? He sighed and then stood up as he made his way downstairs. Max immediately knew that Michael was following him.

" Hey Maxwell where are you going?"

" Downstairs." Michael shook his head and followed Max into the kitchen.

" Maxwell..." Max clenched his jaw and then whipped around shoving Michael back. " Stop it!" Michael threw his hands up in the air, defensively.

" I am trying to keep your ass from screwing up!"

" No you are screwing my life up. Of what I have left."

" That's what you think. That Isabel and I are ruining your life?" Just then Isabel came running up behind Michael. It being obvious to Max that she had heard what Michael had asked.

Max sighed and then said, " I didn't say that."

" So what are you saying Maxwell?"

" I don't need a babysitter. No more. I don't want you following me or telling me what to do. I know what we are. I am not stupid." Isabel sighed and said.

" Max we don't think that."

" Then stop treating me like it."

There was a moment of silence between the three when the doorbell rang. Everyone stiffened, not moving. Max rolled his eyes and then made his way through Isabel and Michael and to the front door. He quicky opened the door to see Liz smiling at him.

Max nearly fainted at the sight and realization that Liz Parker was at his house. On his doorstep. She was wearing a baby pink skirt and cream top. Of course she looked more beautiful than ever. If Liz hadn't said anything, Max wouldn't have been able to say anything.

" Um hi Max." Max glanced behind him to see Michael and Isabel approaching. Quickly he stepped outside and shut the door, secretly sealing it with his powers. He then instinctively put his hand on Liz's upper arm leading her to the side of the house. Max then shoved his hands in his jean pockets and began shifting his weight from foot to foot.

" Hey Liz." Liz smiled and then lowered her gaze as she bit her lip and then looked back up at him.

" I um...just...um wanted to thank you."

" Thank me?"

" Yes for helping me..I mean Maria, Alex, and me with the Jetta."

" Oh yeah no problem." Liz nodded.

" Yeah um right. Anyway I brought you a pie." Liz handed him the pie. Max smiled and was about to accept the pie when he realized that he couldn't let her in. No matter how much he wanted to.

" I am sorry Liz, but I can't accept this." Liz was immediately hurt and confused. " What? Why?"

" Please you saying thank you was enough. There was no need for you to go to the trouble to bring me a pie."

" No Max it wasn't any trouble at all." Max lowered his gaze, feeling horrible that he couldn't be more open. He then nodded towards his house.

" I had better get inside." Liz tucked a strand of hair back behind her ear and mumbled, " Yeah bye." She then quickly turned away from Max feeling stupid and foolish for even thinking that Max Evans would be interested in her.

Max watched her leave wanting to call her back, but he didn't. He had hurt her and that alone had just ruined him. Max then turned and walked back inside, closing the door behind him.

Maria patiently waited in the car for Liz as she tapped on the steering wheel. Within minutes the passenger door opened and Liz stepped in, holding the pie that was suppose to be for Max. Maria knew right off the bat that Liz was upset. She shifted in her seat so that she was facing Liz.

“ Girl what happened?” Liz bit her lip and tucked a strand of hair back behind her ear.

“ He wouldn’t accept the pie.”

“ What! Why?”

“ He said that he just couldn’t and that my thanks was good enough.”

“ God Liz. I am so sorry.” Liz sighed and kept quiet. She then glanced over at Maria.

“ Hold on. I will be right back.”

“ Um..okay.”

Liz nodded and then stepped back out of the car. Quickly she walked up to Max’s doorstep and set the pie down in front of the door. She then sighed and ran back to the Jetta to find Maria staring at her.

“ Maria?”

“ God Liz. He is such a jerk.

“ No Maria. Really it was my fault.”

“ How can you say that?”

“ I was just being a fool. I mean why would Max Evans be interested in me?”

“ Liz you are a beautiful and sweet person.”

“ Maria it doesn’t matter. I have a boyfriend anyway. I don’t even know what I was thinking. As far as I am concerned Max Evans means nothing to me. Um....could you please take me home?” Maria nodded,sympathetically.

“ Sure babe.” Maria started the car and sighed. She knew that Liz was hurt by what Max did. Well who wouldn’t be? Maria knew what she had to do. Max Evans wasn’t going to get off that easy. She would give him a piece of her mind!

Max slammed the front door shut and then looked up to see Isabel and Michael staring at him. Max sighed and then asked, “ What?”

Michael crossed his arms. “ What did she want?”

“ None of your business.”

“ Maxwell what did she want?” Max rolled his eyes and then proceeded to his bedroom. He was walking through his bedroom door when he felt someone grab his arm and shove him against the hallway wall. Max groaned and then counterattacked by reaching out and grabbing Michael’s shoulders and then shoving him to the ground Max then yelled out, “ What is your problem?!?” Michael quickly stood up and eyed him.

“ You!”

“ I didn’t do anything!”

“ You are letting your male hormones get in the way.”

“ Whatever Michael.”

“ Why did Liz come over here?”

Just then Max and Isabel’s mother, Diane walked through the front door carrying groceries. Max glared at Michael and then ran over to his mother, helping her carry the groceries. Diane smiled. “ Thank you Max.”

“ Sure thing mom. How was your day?”

“ Just fine, thank you. Oh but there was one thing”

“ Yeah and what was that?”

“ I just found a pie on our front doorstep.” Max paused as his eye’s widened and a smile came to his face.

“ What?”

“ Yeah here see for yourself.” Max nodded and then looked over at the counter to see the same pink box that Liz had offered him and sure enough it was from the Crashdown. At that moment Max felt himself feeling....feeling good. Someone had reached out to him. That had never really happened before. An even bigger smile lit up on his face when he realized it wasn’t just anyone that reached out to him. It was Liz.

Isabel and Michael stood in the hallway, confused by what was going on. Michael rolled his eyes and said, “ I am going to go.” Isabel turned to Michael.

“ Okay. Remember if Hank..”

“ Isabel don’t.” Isabel nodded.

Max glanced over his shoulder nodding good bye to Michael. He wasn’t angry with Michael for what he had done. That was who Michael was. He had always been that way. Max and Isabel had always just had to deal with Michael’s attitude, but overall they all cared about each other. Max and Michael shared a bond that him and Isabel didn’t. When Max and Isabel had been walking on the side of the road after leaving their pods they had been found by the Evan’s. Michael was behind them, following them, but when the Evans truck had pulled up beside them that’s when Michael fled. Would things have been different if Michael had stayed with him and Isabel that night? Michael had then been put in an orphanage until he was took in by his abusive foster father, Hank, but that was another story. Max shrugged his shoulders and finished helping his mother with the groceries. As he was doing this the pink box came into view. Max smiled again. How could he not?

Isabel sighed and then approached Max. “ Max?”

“ Hmm?”

“ Listen I am sorry.” Max glanced up at her actually interested in what she had to say.

“ What do you mean?”

“ Michael and I don’t want to ruin your life.”

“ I know that. It’s just I know what the risks are. I’m not stupid. Listen when Liz came by I turned her down. It was her decision to leave the pie on the doorstep.” Isabel nodded.

“ We can’t get close...”

“ I realize that.” Isabel patted his back and then headed to her room.

Max leaned against the counter as his mother came in from the living room.

“ Max honey? Are you alright?”

“ Yeah thanks.”

“ You know school starts soon.”

“ Yeah.”

“ So are you looking forward to it?”

“ You could say that.”

Maria pulled up in front of the Crashdown and then turned to Liz.

“ Babe are you sure you are okay?” Liz nodded.

“ Yeah you know I am. This whole situation was just a big misunderstanding.”

“ Okay so I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“ Yeah.”

“ Bye girl.”

“ Bye and thank you.” Maria and Liz hugged before she stepped out of the Jetta and into the Crashdown to find someone waiting for her.

Liz half smiled and nodded. “ Hiya..Kyle.”

“ Hey where has my favorite waitress been?” Liz nervously giggled as Kyle approached her and wrapped his arms around small waist. Liz hesitated when he touched her,but then sighed realizing that Kyle was it for her right now. She smiled and then kissed him. Quickly she pulled away from Kyle, shocked.

Kyle frowned and asked her, “ Liz are you okay?”

“ Um I have to go.”

“ Go? Go where?”

“ Mmm..upstairs to do my homework. Bye Kyle.” Liz smiled and then gently pushed him away as she bolted up the stairs and into her room, shutting her bedroom door behind her. Quickly Liz ran over to her phone and began dialing Maria’s number. There wasn’t any answer. “ Shoot she probably isn’t home yet.” Liz sighed and then smiled realizing that she could call her cell phone. Immediately she dialed Maria’s cell and after the second ring, she answered.

“ Hey?”

“ Hi Maria. It’s Liz.”

“ OMG, what happened?”

“ No nothing like that. I just need you to get your butt back here!”

“ Okay I am on my way.”

“ Thank you.” Liz then hung up the phone and began pacing back and forth in her room awaiting Maria’s arrival.

10 MINUTES LATER~

Liz nearly fell off of her bed at the sound of someone knocking on her bedroom door. Quickly she stood up and ran over to her door, opening it to see Alex.

" Alex!" Liz pulled him in for a hug. " I am so glad that you are here!"

" Um thanks. Liz are you okay?"

" No. Yes. I mean I don't know. I am just so glad that you are here."

" So um what's going on?" Liz nodded, but then shook her head.

" I will explain everything once Maria gets here."

" Okay then. Maybe you should sit down?"

" Heh no really I am okay. I am calm." Alex laughed and then scratched his head. Feeling somewhat confused by his best friend's actions. Just then someone else began knocking on Liz's door. Alex was about to answer when a high pitched scream escaped Liz's lips, startling him. She then brushed pass him and quickly opened her door to see a flushed Maria. Liz took a deep breath and let her in, shutting the door behind her. Liz then smiled as she centered herself in front of Alex and Maria.

" Guys I have something important to tell you." Maria and Alex exchanged confused looks and then they nodded and awaited to hear Liz's great news. " It's Max."

Alex and Maria didn't know how to respond to Liz's sudden outburst. Neither one of them had expected Liz's so called important news to involve the name Max. Liz frowned when she didn't recieve a respone. Liz brushed her hair back with her fingers then reached her hands out, motioning them to stop. " Okay guys just stop. I know what you are thinking. What could possibly be so important with Max being involved? Just let me explain what happened."

Alex crossed his arms and then eyed Liz in disbelief. " Yeah please do."

Liz nodded and then began explaining. " See I was downstairs with Kyle a moment ago and he kissed me. At that moment I got this creepy feeling."

Alex raised an eyebrow and then interrupted. "Creepy feeling?" Liz shook her head no.

" No not creepy."

" Not creepy?"

" No um it was more like an uncomfortable feeling. I had never felt that way around Kyle before. I don't know how or why but it dawned on me. I don't like Kyle."

Maria sarcastically laughed and then stood up. " Finally we can all go home now. Liz now realizes that she doesn't have feelings for Kyle."

Liz placed her hands on her hips and made a face at Maria. " No Maria it's a lot more complicated then that."

" What do you mean?"

" I like him, but more as a friend. It's almost as if I am with him just so I can say that I am with someone."

" Girl you need to break away from that."

" I know and I will. It's just I know that Kyle doesn't feel the same way. I don't want to hurt his feelings."

Alex rolled his eyes and then stood up and placed his hands on Liz's shoulders.

" Liz this is all so touching. I mean you looking out for Valenti and all, but what does Max have to do with any of this?" Liz nodded and then slid her hands in her back pockets.

" I don't know. I mean there is something about him."

" Something about him?"

" Yeah. I can't quite put my finger on it."

" Um Liz. Max doesn't talk to anybody."

" I know. There's just something there."

Alex and Maria exchanged worried and confused looks. They didn't know what to say once again. Maria sighed and then asked, " Well why don't you ask him out or something?"

" It's complicated."

" Okay." Maria sighed and then glanced at her wrist watch. " OMG I have to get going. My mom will kill me. I told her I would be home 15 minutes ago."

Liz laughed and then hugged Maria goodbye. Maria then turned to Alex.

" Do you need a ride home?"

" Yeah that would be great. Thanks."

" Sure. Bye Girl. Call me!" Liz nodded and then hugged Alex. She then took a deep breath as Alex and Maria left.

AT THE EVANS~

Max paced back and forth in his bedroom with his hands crossed. The fact that school was creeping up around the corner drove him crazy. He didn't have the patience to wait. Also there was the days events. Liz had reached out to him even though he had unwillingly pushed her away. Was this a sign? No it couldn't be. Could it? Max scratched his head and then threw himself on his bed. There were too many things for him to be worrying about right now. So he forced himself to fall asleep.In hopes that his dreams would bring a smile to his face.

AT THE PARKERS~

Liz changed into her pink tank top and pink flowered shorts. Stretching once more before slipping into bed and pulling the covers up around her. Liz had wanted to write in her journal, but she couldn’t seem to calm down. Her thoughts and feeling continued to spin and spin. What was it about Max Evans that made her feel this way? She didn’t even know the guy. They had spoken a couple of times, but nothing deep. Maybe it wasn’t what he did or didn’t say, but how he looked. The way his eyes seemed to lock onto hers. Liz giggled and turned on her side, smiling. She couldn’t wait until school. She couldn’t wait until morning.

AT MICHAEL’S(TRAILER PARK)~

Michael was rummaging through the refrigerator when Hank began yelling.

“ God damn it! What in the hell are you doing?! Fucking little rat. You eat so much food. Fatty!” Michael frowned and glanced back at Hank.

“ Shut up Hank. Go drink some more.”

“ Hey don’t you talk back to me!”

“ Yes ma’am.”

“ I am not a man!” Michael laughed.

“ Whatever you say.” Michael then grabbed the container of Orange Juice and then headed out the trailer door. He wasn’t going to get any sleep here. Michael picked up the pace and headed to Maxwell’s.

AT THE EVANS~

Max was sound asleep when Michael began knocking on his window. At first nothing happened. Michael frowned and then hit the window harder. When he again he didn’t receive a response Michael used his powers and unlocked the window latch. He then began stepping through the window, but he lost his balance and fell into Max’s room.

Max quickly sat up and jumped out of bed to accidental step on someone’s hand. That startled him and Michael both. Max began yelling as well as Michael. Both of them screaming.

Just then Max’s bedroom door opened and the light came on. Max eased when he saw that it was just Michael. He then glanced over at his doorway to see Isabel, Diane, and Philip Evans staring at him and Michael. Max was now embarrassed. He quickly smiled to his parents and said, “ Um sorry. Michael showed up and startled me.”

Philip Evans crossed his arms. “ Obviously.” Max cowered and waited for his parents to either speak or leave.

Diane Evans sighed and looked to Max and Michael. “ You two need to work out some sort of sleeping arrangement so that it doesn’t wake up the entire neighborhood.”

Max, keeping his gaze on the floor.

“ Yes mom.”

Diane and Philip nodded and then proceeded back to their bedroom.

Isabel entered Max’s room and then shut the door behind her. She then looked back and forth from Michael and Max. “ Guys is everything okay?” Max nodded.

“ Yeah Is. It’s fine. Michael startled me that’s all.”

Michael stood up and began rubbing his hand that Max had stepped on. “ Yeah sorry. It’s just that Hank was going off again.” Max waved his hand.

“ Don’t worry about it. You’re always welcome.”

“ Yeah thanks. Oh and sorry about earlier. You just can’t be that dumb when it comes to Liz.” Max smiled and teasingly asked.

“ Are you apologizing? Isabel are you hearing this?”

Michael crossed his arms and made a face. “ Don’t push it Maxwell.”

Max laughed and then knelt down and grabbed the sleeping bag out from under his bed.

Isabel rolled her eyes. “ Well I am off to bed. Night guys.”

Michael and Max nodded good night as Isabel left Max’s room. After rolling the sleeping bag out Max fell back onto his bed and went back to sleep. Michael removed his jacket and he too went to bed.

ONE WEEK PRIOR TO SCHOOL STARTING~12:00 P.M.

Liz and Maria ran back and forth throughout the Crashdown, taking and finishing orders. Neither one of them had time to breath. When a crowd of people left an even bigger crowd came waltzing in. Liz didn't know how much more she could take. Her nor Maria had gotten a break yet that day and the chance of them getting one anytime soon was slim. The past weeks had consisted of her working and preparing for the upcoming school year. She hadn't seen much of Kyle which wasn't much of a disappointment. Unfortunately she hadn't see or heard from Max Evans since the day that she gave him the pie. Things had been really quiet and maybe it was for the best. What was the chance of her and Max Evans getting together?

Maria was waiting impatiently by the cooks counter when Alex came from out of the back of the Crashdown, smiling. " Hey Alex. "

" Good afternoon Maria." Maria frowned and then teasingly asked.

" Why are you in such a good mood?"

" Well as I was walking over here, I happened to see Isabel Evans and her brother pull up into the Crashdown parking lot."

" And?" Alex sighed and shook his head. Maria quickly caught on. " Oh yes that's right you are Mr. Observer when it comes to Isabel Evans." Alex made a face.

" Yeah yeah laugh it up. Ha. Ha."

" Why don't you just go and talk to her?"

" Me? No I don't think so. I am just the geeky admirer."

Maria was about to say something else, but the bell on the entrance doors rang catching her, and Alex's attention. It was no other than Isabel and Max Evans, but wait there was someone else with them. Maria smiled. She remembered him. He was the guy who had treated her ever so rudely at the Warehouse party she had attended. Maria noticed him looking at her. She made a face and then turned away from him.

Michael followed Max and Isabel to a nearby booth. Unable to keep his eyes off of the blonde waitress. He remembered how bitchy she had been at the Warehouse party, but regardless she sure was good looking.

Max laughed and then hit Michael's shoulder. " Hey what's with you and Maria?"

" Who? Shut up Maxwell. I don't even know her."

" Why don't you go talk to her?"

" Maxwell. Save it."

Max shrugged his shoulders and then scanned the Crashdown for Liz. She was his only reason for coming. A unoticable grin lit up on his face when he saw her waiting on the table across the restaurtant. She had her penicl at the tips of her lips and the orderbook held up at waist height. Not to mention her killer smile. Max was so lost in thought that he didn't realize that Isabel was poking at his side.

" Max!" Max shook his head.

" What?"

" God could you be any more obvious?" Max sighed and he was just about to respond, but something more interesting came up, literally. It was Liz and she was staring right at him.

Liz smiled, finding it awfully hard not to look at Max. His eyes enchanted her everytime she saw him. After a moment had passed Liz took a deep breath and politely asked, " How may I help you?"

Michael rolled his eyes and rudely said, " Give me a shake and hurry cuz I don't like to wait." Liz bit her lip and nodded. She then glanced over at Isabel.

Isabel sighed and rudely said, " I will have a Moon Burger. Oh and no mayo."

Liz nodded and then met Max's eyes. Max felt himself floating on cloud nine. Unable to speak, Max mumbled, " Um a cherry coke please." Liz smiled.

" Okay. I will have that up right away." Liz nodded and then walked away.

Max began shifting uncomfortably in his seat before asking Isabel to let him slide out. Isabel frowned and Max spoke up. " I have to use the restroom." Isabel rolled her eyes and then stood up, letting Max out. Quickly Max stood up and approached Liz.

Liz had just finished filling a large glass with Cherry Coke when she heard someone whisper her name. Liz half turned and at that moment her voice left her. It wasn’t just anyone whispering her name. It was Max Evans. Liz’s body shivered with feelings of nervousness, excitement, and fear. What was Max going to say to her? Was he going to make it clear that he wasn’t interested in her? No maybe he was here to be sweet and start a friendly conversation. Liz didn’t have time to prepare herself for what he had to say for his lips began to move. His voice pierced her sense, bringing her back to reality.

Max quickly licked his lips and then shoved his hands in his jean pockets and mumbled with as much confidence as he could let out. “ Liz thanks for the pie. I mean you didn’t have to.”

Liz smiled and continued to stare at him. It seemed as if she was comprehending his words one by one. Suddenly realizing that he was waiting for a reply, Liz shook her head and feeling somewhat embarrassed.

“ It wasn’t a problem. I wanted to. After how you helped us out and everything with Maria’s car.”

“ Sure. So..”

“ So...are you excited for school?”

“ Heh yeah. More than you know. How about you?”

“ Oh yeah. I can’t wait. You know to see my friends and get to know people.”

“ I agree. Well I had better get back..so..”

“ Sure I understand.”

“ Bye Liz.”

“ Bye Max.”

Max nodded and smiled once more before turning around and heading back to the booth where Isabel and Michael were waitng. Max sighed and then waited for Isabel to stand up so he could scoot over to the far side. He then pretended to be interested in Isabel and Michael's conversation even though his thoughts and eyes were locked on the Parker beauty.

Liz smiled as she watched Max walk away and sit down and if she wasn't mistaken he was still staring at her. Liz giggled as Maria tapped her shoulder. Liz jumped and then defensively turned around not knowing that it was Maria. " Maria. Sorry you scared me!"

" Obviously. So what did Max have to say?"

" What do you mean?"

" Please Liz save it. I saw him walk up to the counter." Liz blushed and nodded.

" Yeah um he just was thanking me for the pie."

" Even though he turned it down the first time?"

" Maria maybe he was having a bad day?"

" Yeah maybe."

Maria slyly walked away from Liz had snuck over to the booth Max, Isabel, and Michael were at. Maria made sure that Liz wasn't looking before she cleared her throat and boldy asked, " Max can I speak with your for a moment?"

Michael glanced up at Maria and frowned even though a part of him was happy that she had walked over. He shifted in his seat and rudely commented, " Shouldn't you be working?" Maria rolled her eyes and made a face. She wasn't in the mood to put up with Spike's attitude.

Max exchanged confused looks with Isabel as she stood up, letting him out. Before Max followed Maria outside, Isabel grabbed his arm and whispered, " I think that you should sit on the outside." Max laughed and then walked outside.

Liz was finishing an order when she heard the entrance door's bell ring. As if an instant reaction Liz glanced up to see Maria and Max leaving. Liz's eyes narrowed and she began wondering why Maria would need to talk to Max. Liz gulped and then walked over to the nearest table and began taking their orders.

Maria stopped walking and then turned around to face Max.

" Listen you need to know something. Liz is a very special girl. She is my best friend and as my duty as a best friend. I am here to warn you not to hurt her. If you don't like her then fine, but don't fuck with her."

Max nearly fell down at the shock that ran through him from hearing Maria's words or threat. Max didn't quite understand. Quickly Max spoke,

" Whoa wait a minute. I don't know what you are talking about. I would never use or let alone hurt Liz!" Max immediately shutup, realizing that he had said too much. He shoved his hands in his pockets and turned away from Maria, mumbling, " I have to go."

Before Maria could say anything else, Max had already reentered the Crashdown. A smile spread across her face. Max Evans was crazy about Liz. That was something Maria was more than sure of. Crossing her arms and smiling, Maria followed Max back into the Crashdown.

Max feeling somewhat embarrassed and offended that Maria had accused him of using Liz. He wouldn't even let that happen. Sighing once more, he walked over to the booth and sat down. It was obvious that Michael and Isabel were staring at him. Michael threw his napkin down on his unfinished food and then rudely said, " Why aren't you Mr. Popular!"

Max sighed as Michael stood up and left his unfinished food. Max clenched his jaw and groaned. Quickly standing up and following Michael out of the restaurant. " Michael!" Michael stopped and then quickly turned around, pointing his finger at Max.

" You're going to get us all killed!"

" Hey I didn't do anything!"

" Bullshit. I saw you "go to the bathroom ," or might I say talk to Liz."

" I was only thanking her for the pie!"

" Whatever Maxwell. Just don't expect me to stick around when we get caught."

" That's not going to happen. You don't even know Liz!"

" Oh and you do? Correct me if I am wrong, but all you do is watch her Maxwell." Max clenched his jaw and then groaned as he shoved Michael back.

" You pushed me? You pushed me!" Michael then charged back at Max, shoving him into the Crashdown window.

Liz, and Maria along with everyone else in the restaurant gasped when a guy went flying through the window. The glass, obviously being broken flew throughout the restaurant, luckily not hitting anybody.

Isabel screamed Max's name as she ran over to her bleeding brother.

Liz felt her heart being pulled out and twisted when she heard Max's name being screamed. Instinctively Liz ran over to Isabel and then knelt down beside Max. Isabel was in to much of a panic to think straight which is why she stepped aside and let Liz take control of the situation. Liz attempted to keep her cool as she began applying pressure to Max's wounds with her alien apron. Liz bit her lip and whimpered. She hated seeing Max like this. Liz brought her hand to his forehead and began running her fingers through his hair as she sweetly whispered, " Max can you hear me? Max?" Max gulped and then struggled to speak.

" ...Li..z.."

" Yes it's me Liz. Please just hold on. Maria is calling the ambulance."

" N..o..ambulance."

" Max are you sure? You seem really hurt."

" Pleas..e.." Liz nodded and then reluctantly told Maria not to call the ambulance. She then motioned for Isabel and Alex to help Max up to her room.

Isabel bit her lip and nodded. She then helped Liz help Max stand up.

Alex didn't know what to say or do. Of course he wanted to help Max, but Isabel was there and that alone made him go into lock. Shaking his head and sighing Alex ran over to Liz, Isabel and Max. As soon as he approached them Isabel caught his eye. They both stared for a moment as they helped Max upstairs.

Liz glanced to Maria on there way in the back room. " Please calm the guests down. I will be back down in a minute."

" Okay girl. No problem." Maria turned to the guests who were screaming and freaking out. Maria sighed and then muttered, " Yeah no problem."

Liz was thankful that her parents weren't home. They had both left for a company meeting that morning and they wouldn't be back for two more days. Liz ran ahead of Isabel, Max and Alex to open her bedroom door.

Isabel didn't know what to think, but she was sure about one thing. Liz Parker wasn't a bad person. At first Isabel had been bothered by Liz at first because of Max's infatuation with her, but now Isabel knew why her brother was head over heels for Liz.

Alex and Isabel guided Max over to Liz's bed. They then laid him down. Max groaned as he scooted up towards the pillow. Alex sighed.

" Max are you sure you don't want us to call the ambulance?"

" No. Please don't."

" Okay man. Whatever you say. Listen I'm going to go back downstairs and help Maria. Um wasn't there someone else with you guys?"

Isabel raised an eyebrow and then guestioned, " What?"

" I don't know. He had spiky hair. Your boyfriend?" Isabel broke into laughter.

" Michael? God no. He is more like a brother."

Alex smiled. He had to admit. It brought him pleasure to know that Isabel wasn't seeing Michael. Not that he would be interested in him or anything. Isabel's smile quickly faded into a frown. Alex instinctively put his hand on Isabel's shoulder. " Isabel what is it?"

" Michael. I have to go see if he is okay."

" Yeah of course. Do you want to come down with me?"

" Sure. Yeah thanks." Alex and Isabel began to leave, but Isabel hesitated at first, not knowing if leaving Max and Liz alone was such a good idea, but her fears were to put to rest. Something told her otherwise. A feeling telling her that what was happening was okay, but there was no way in hell that Isabel would let people know how she really felt. Isabel bit her lip and then nodded to herself as she followed Alex downstairs.

Liz sighed and watched Max breath in and out she sat beside him. He looked so innocent and vulnerable. Liz noticed that he was still bleeding pretty badly. She decided to go downstairs and get some first aid supplies along with some wet cloths. As she began to move away from Max, he quickly grabbed her arm. " Liz please don't go."

" Um Max you're bleeding. I mean I need to get something to help."

" No I'm fine."

" Max?"

" Really."

" Okay." Liz had put on a strong front when she aided Max after she had seen him come crashing through the Crashdown window, but it was harder to now. " God Max you really scared me."

" Hey I'm fine."

" I don't know if I would call this fine." Max started to laugh, but stopped with he began cringing with pain. " Sorry."

" No. No. I'm listen I don't care what you say. I am going downstairs to get some things."

" Liz.." Liz smiled.

" Max no offense, but I don't think you are in any condition to stop me." Max smiled and nodded. Liz then stood up and walked towards her door, glancing back at Max who was smiling at her. She then continued downstairs.

Max sat up a little and healed some of the more serious wounds so that he would be able to move easier. Max laid back down and groaned with pain, but then smiled. " I should get hurt more often."

Liz hurried downstairs to grab a first aid kit for Max. She began rummaging through the cabinets in the back room when Maria came bolting through the doors. " Liz it is a mess out there! People are freaking out about Max!" Liz groaned in frustration.

" Okay um how many customers do we have out there?"

" About 10?" Liz put her hands on her hips and began running over options. She then nodded and patted Maria on the shoulder as she headed out into the front of the restaurant to a excited crowd.

Liz scanned the room and then sighed. Quicklys she projected her voice and yelled, " Excuse me! Excuse me! There was an accident that took place 8 minutes ago. I wanted to inform you that Max is fine. Due to the events that took place and the broken glass I am going to propose a deal to you. It is obvious that the Crashdown is not useable at this time. So what I am offering you is a free order to each person in exchange of your departure so that we can clean up this unfortunate mess."

Liz bit her lip and prayed that the customers cooperated. Luckily the seemed quite willing to play along. Liz smiled and then instructed them to give Maria their full name, and address for confirmation purposes.

Maria came out of the backroom after listening to Liz take charge of the situation. She smiled and patted Liz on the back, " Great job girlfriend. Way to stay in control." Liz smiled and then walked towards the Crashdown entrance, putting the Closed sign up. As she was doing this Liz saw Isabel and Alex standing outside with Michael.

Isabel was no more frustrated than ever with her alien friend, Michael. " Michael what in the hell were you thinking?" Michael ignored Isabel's question and rudely asked, " What in the hell is he doing here?" Isabel glanced over at Alex and then back to Michael.

" He was helping me find you."

" Well you found me so tell Alice to get lost."

Alex frowned and became very angry with Michael's jackass attitude. " Listen here Mikey. I haven't done anything to you. For God's sake you don't even know me. Oh and that restaurant back there. The one you pushed your friend Max into to. That's my best friend Liz's restaurant. Well her family whatever. You just caused her a shit load of cleaning up to do! So maybe you should just back off." Michael crossed his arms. He had to admit he never expected someone like Alex Whitman to confront him in such an angry manner.

Alex quickly lost his sense of braveness as he nodded and stood back behind Isabel. Isabel smiled and then glanced back at Michael. " I think you need to come back with us and apologize to Max." Michael sighed.

" Listen I didn't mean for him to get hurt like that and shit."

" I know Michael. Come on." Michael paused for a moment.

" Wait if you are here who is up with Max?"

" Liz is." Michael's eye's widened as he ran away from Isabel and Alex and towards the Crashdown.

After Liz had straightened the mess with the customers she ran into the back room and once again began looking for the first aid kit. Within seconds the first aid box came into sight. It was lying under a pile of papers. Liz smiled and then ran back upstairs to her room.

Max was shifting and almost ready to heal another wound when he heard someone coming upstairs. Max swore under his breath and then sat up as Liz came walking in with the first aid kit. As soon as she entered the room her eyes met Max's. " Hey."

" Hey."

" Well I finally found the first aid. Sorry it took so long."

" Don't worry about it." Liz smiled and nodded as she approached the bed. Max sat up as Liz sat down beside him. " I am glad that you are okay Max. I mean it could have been...." Max smiled.

" I'm fine Liz, thanks to you. I mean you really pulled through for me."

" Yeah um...." Liz and Max were caught in another moment of awkward silence. Liz sighed and then tucked a strand of hair back behind her ear.

" This is weird." Max raised an eyebrow and asked.

" What is?" Liz blushed with embarrassment.

" I just find it weird that um this is how we really started talking. I mean I would have never thought that you would come crashing through a window." Max laughed.

" Yeah me either."

" I'm glad though. I mean that we can talk."

" Yeah me too. It's hard for me to um start a conversation with people."

" I know."

" Huh?"

" Well at school you don't seem to talk much."

Max nodded. At that moment he just wanted to tell Liz everything about him and what he really was, but Max didn't want to jepordize this moment. As these thought's ran through his mind a song began playing. It must have been from someone's radio next door. Because Liz's window was open and her balcony was directly below, the sounds from outside were clear.

" I'm Hanging By A Moment Here With You,

Letting Go Of All I've Held Onto

I'm Standing Here Until You Make Me Move

I'm Hanging By A Moment Here With You"

Liz blushed as well did Max. The song seemed to describe what the both of them were feeling right now. Liz took a deep breath and then stood up. She knew that something would happen if she hadn't have moved. Max frowned. He didn't understand why Liz had pulled back from him. Max groaned a little as he scooted of the bed and over to Liz. He softly whispered her name, " Liz?"

Liz turned around and gasped, " Max you need to be lying down. She could easily see that he was weak and in no condition to be standing. Quickly she ran over to him and let him lean on her for support. As she helped him back over to her bed the both of them lost balance and fell onto her bed. Max landed on top of Liz. Neither one of them moved or spoke. Something told Liz that this was right, but how could that be possible. They hadn't ever talked before, but no matter how hard she tried to fight her reasoning her heart seemed to yell louder. Max made her feel a way that she had never felt before.

Max didn't know what to do. Here he was. His lips barely touching hers. He was alien he shouldn't even be in this situation! Before he could reason his lips lightly touched Liz's.

Max's lips parted letting Liz's conform with his. He knew that doing this, that kissing Liz wasn't a smart thing to do considering the circumstances, but at that moment he didn't care.

Liz was surprised by Max's actions. She was pleased of course, but surprised. Liz didn't know that Max felt something for her or maybe he was just some pervert looking for a free makeout session? Liz then began to pull away from him.

Max felt Liz pulling away from him. Something inside of him took control. He wasn't going to let Liz back away from him. Quickly Max cupped her face with his hands bringing her lips back to his.

Liz felt her lips being pressed back against Max's again. Was she wrong? Did he really feel for her? Neither one of them had time to comprehend or understand what they were feeling because of a startling knock on Liz's bedroom door. Liz quickly pulled away from Max and crawled off of him. She then stood up and walked over to her door. As she did this Max groaned in frustration as he scooted back up on the bed.

Liz opened the door to see Michael standing before her with his arms crossed and an annoyed expression on his face. Liz gulped and then half smiled. " Hi. Michael right?" Michael shrugged his shoulders and muttered,

" Something like that." as he pushed his way into Liz's room to see Max sitting on Liz's bed, glaring at him.

Michael cleared his throat and then rudely asked, " Sorry about earlier. What the hell are you doing here?"

" I'm recooperating."

" Fine whatever. Come on. I'll help you home."

" Maybe I'm not ready to leave yet."

" Maxwell don't make me say something I'm going to regret."

" Michael don't." Michael sighed.

Max obviously didn't want to cooperate with him, resulting in Michael saying something that he knew he would regret, but that had to be done. " Listen Maxwell, Amber is waiting at your house." Max's eyes widened with anger and confusion.

" Shut up Michael!"

" Max she really cares for you. I mean you haven't even broken up with her yet and here you are with Liz."

Liz gapsed and then a sadden expression spread across her face. She then whimpered and coldly said, " I have to go downstairs and clean up. I think it would be best if you both left." She then hurried out of her room.

Max groaned and then began to stand up to run after Liz, but she had already left and Michael was hovering over him. Max stood up and glared at Michael.

" Thank you." Michael raised an eyebrow and asked.

" For what?"

" For giving me another reason to not want to be friends with you. You are a selfish arrogant jerk who wouldn't know what love was if it slapped him in the face. I don't care that I am alien anymore. This is my life and I am the one who is going to run it. Don't you ever interfere with Liz and I again." Michael grabbed Max's arm and scolded.

" You're going to get us all killed!" Max lowered his gaze and then muttered, " You are killing Michael. Sometimes I think you already have." Max then brushed away from Michael and ran out of Liz's bedroom window. He would talk to her later that night.

Liz stormed down the stairs feeling incredibly stupid and foolish. What in the hell was she thinking by kissing Max? Besides she was already with Kyle although she knew that wouldn't last long. How could have her kiss and feelings for Max be so strong? She was foolish to think that Max thought the same way about her. Liz held her tears. She wasn't going to let anyone know how much Max had hurt her. She was strong and Max Evans was just another stepping stone. Liz grabbed the broom and dust pan and then headed out into the front of the Crashdown to see Isabel, Alex, and Maria straightening things up.

Isabel smiled at Liz and asked, " How's Max doing?" Liz didn't seem to happy. It was obvious to everyone that she was upset about something.

" Um him and Michael are upstairs." Liz then turned from everyone and helped clean up. The room remained silent for the rest of the clean up.

LATER THAT EVENING~

Liz was on her rooftop writing in her journal when someone began calling her name. At first Liz thought she was just hearing things,but when her name was called again she knew that she wasn't making it up. Liz closed her journal and then stood up cautiously walking over to the edge of her rooftop and glancing down in the nightlit streets to see Max Evans standing. Liz immediately became angry and said.

" I can't talk right now." Liz began to turn around, but Max called her name again.

" Please Liz. I need to speak with you." Liz paused for a moment before answering.

" Okay come on up." Max nodded and made his way up her ladder in a short amount of time.

Max hopped onto her rooftop and began rubbing his hands together to ease his nervousness. He knew that there was no point to beat around the bush so instead he jumped to the point, " Liz what Michael said about that girl waiting for me. He was lying. None of it was true."

Liz found it easy to believe him. The way his eyes danced in the moonlight and how his face revealed such innocence and honesty. Liz didn't want to let her guard down though. Well at least just not yet. " Max why would he even say that?"

" He doesn't want us getting close. Him, Isabel and I have always stuck together. Kind of like you, Alex, and Maria."

" Yeah um I understand that."

" Please Liz I am sorry that I hurt you earlier. It's the last thing that I would ever want to do." Liz smiled and then walked towards Max.

" What is it about you that makes me feel this way?" Max gave her a flattered but puzzled look.

" What do you mean?"

" Max I never even knew you existed." Max frowned.

" Gee thanks." Liz shook her head no.

" No No I mean I had never really even talked to you and suddenly I began feeling things for you."

Max shoved his hands in his pockets, wishing at that moment that he could tell her everything.

Liz sighed feeling really foolish. What had she just said to him? Suddenly thoughts began floating through her mind.

Oh My God why did I just say that? What am I doing? He must think I am some freak!

Max knew what she was thinking. Quickly he glanced up at her and smiled. " No Liz I don't think bad of you. I could never even do that. I am flattered. The truth is...I feel the same way, but we can't be....together." Liz sighed and then cried out,

" Why are you saying that? Max."

" Liz there are things about me that..."

" What?"

" I am sorry. I can't say. Please I really have to go." Liz didn't know what to say or do but watch him leave.

Max nodded and began climbing down the ladder, whispering " Good Night Liz."

After Max had left Liz's rooftop she grabbed her journal and began writing as she sat in her lawn chair with a quilted blanket around her shoulders.

Dear Journal,

It's me Liz Parker again. Not that it would ever be anyone else. It just seems that writing my name in the beginning as become habitual. How was my day? I guess I could say it was eventful. Max Evans came crashing into my life and then within that same day he ran away from it. It's not important for me to go into details, but I will say that he kissed me. When his lips touched mine....oh it was indescribable. I know he felt it to. He just left saying that we couldn't be together. Basically that he had secrets. Was he lying so that he wouldn't have to answer to me? And if he was telling the truth I mean what life changing secrets could he possibly have? It's not like he's an alien or anything. Men I will never understand them. I was hurt, but now I am more confused by today than anything. I think that I am going to drop this " Max " thing. Whatever his reasons were. He made it quite clear that he didn't want me....

Liz

Liz closed her journal and then stood up and walked towards her bedroom window. She quickly climbed into her room to escape from the cold night. Liz placed her journal in her top desk drawer. As she was turning towards her bed she caught a glimpse of her reflection in the mirror. Liz stopped and stared for what seemed like an eternity. She then sighed and prepared herself for bed. Liz then crawled into her red blanketed bed and attempted to fall asleep.

THE NEXT MORNING* WHITMAN'S HOUSE*

Alex shifted around in his covers trying to wake up. It seemed that his loss of sleep was taking it's toll. He could hear his father, Chuck Whitman calling him down to breakfast. Him and his father lived together. His mother had passed away years ago, but with the help of his best friend's Liz and Maria he turned out all right. Alex also had a deep passion for music. He was in the process of forming a band, but it seemed that the locals of Roswell weren't excited about the idea. The last time he had some guys over to practice the neighbors complained that a rock band would only cause trouble. His father then told him that he needed to take a break from the world of rock. The sound of his father's voice calling him once again for breakfast brought him back to reality. He groaned as he sat up and ran his hands through his pillow created hair. A smile spread across his face knowing that he would be able to see Liz and Maria at the Crashdown not to mention the Evan's sister, Isabel. To his surprise she had been more than nice to him when Max had been hurt. Was it a start for a new friendship? Alex smiled, " Hey what's life without taking a chance."

THE DELUCA'S RESIDENCE

Maria was already up and walking around the house with her bowl of fruit loops. Oh how she loved a hearty breakfast. Yeah right. Who was she kidding? Her reasoning for eating such a quick breakfast was so that she had more than enough time to do her hair and makeup. Don't get the wrong impression. Maria was not at all stuck up or conceited. She was actually the opposite. Maria enjoyed doing hair and makeup like Alex and his music and Liz and her science. As she was walking towards her room she heard her mother, Amy singing to a song, " Suzie Q. " Maria shook her head and laughed. Another one of Maria's passions was to sing. Oh how she loved to sing. Knowing that her voice touched so many hearts made her feel like she could do anything. Maria sighed and glanced at her alarm clock it reading, 9: 25 A.M.

She had an hour and thirty-five minutes before her shift started. Maria loved working at the Crashdown mainly for the reason that she was working with her best friend, Liz. Also there was that dirty boy, Michael. Something about him pleased her, but she couldn't quite put her finger on it.

MICHAEL'S TRAILER

Michael ran out of the trailer door just as Hank threw a milk carton. " Get out you little shit!" Michael rolled his eyes and looked back at Hank.

" Yeah fuck you!"

" Don't you talk to me like that! I'll break your neck!"

" I'd like to see you try."

" Come here."

" No way in hell."

Michael's morning usually consisted of a not so pleasant battle with Hank before he headed off to the Evans or where ever he was headed. How did he end up in a trailer park and Max and Isabel in a nice home? When Michael, Max , and Isabel had emerged from their pods they had walked out together, but Michael seemed to keep his distance. He remembered watching Max and Isabel as they holded hands and walked down the side of the road. He then climbed up on a rock and called out to them. Max and Isabel turned to see him standing before him. Just then the Evan's truck came down the road. At the sight of the truck light's Michael ran back out of sight. So the Evan's only saw Max and Isabel. He was put in many foster homes and orphanages but he did find Max and Isabel again. Sometimes he thought that he had it better than Max and Isabel because if and when they leave Michael wouldn't have given his heart to anyone. He picked up the pace and ran towards the Evan's house.

EVANS HOUSE*ISABEL'S ROOM

Isabel woke up with a pounding headache. She wasn't sure what the cause of it was. More than likely the stress from yestereday. A smile spread across her face when she thought of what had happened yesterday. No she wasn't happy that Max had gotten hurt or that Michael had been a jerk, but something else. She had just met him. He was a friend of Liz's. Alex was his name. Sure he wasn't Mr. Popular or he didn't wear the highest fashion, but there was something about him. He had such a tender heart and not to mention he was more than loyal to his friends. It was obvious that Michael could take him, but that didn't stop Alex for standing for Liz. I guess when you care for someone you step outside of yourself to be there for them. You become a friend.

MAX'S ROOM

Max had been up for hours. No that wasn't true. He hadn't even taken the time to go to sleep. After the bullshit he had fed Liz how could he do anything else. Him being alien didn't make him not want her. To be honest he would have committed to her regardless of what specie he was, but it wasn't just him who he had to worry about. He had Isabel and Michael. He had to remember that no matter what happens. Max couldn't forget the way his lips conformed with hers. It was magic something he had never felt before. The way she reached out to him and took care of him. Even if it was only for a moment the memory would last a lifetime.

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL AT WEST ROSWELL HIGH~

The sound of girl's laughing and the guys bragging about how many times they got laid over the summer was something that was no stranger to West Roswell Highschool. As Liz walked down the main hallway she recognized faces from the year before and people she had never seen. She gave smiles and recieved them. Not to mention the false greetings. You know when you see someone and throw out a smile for the sake of looking good or friendly. It seemed to be a habitual thing for everyone. She scanned the crowds of people and moving students for a familiar face. Whether it be Alex, Maria, or Max. Liz shivered at the name. It had been less than a week since their kiss although she knew not to dwell on it for he made it clear that it was more a mistake than less of one. Liz let out a scream when someone startled her by wrapping their arms aroud her waist. A sense of distaste filled her being when she realized it was Kyle. She could tell by the jacket he was wearing. His letterman. Liz half smiled and then turned around to face Kyle.

" Hiya Kyle."

" Hey Liz. I missed you these last couple of weeks."

" Oh yeah um I've just been busy with work and yeah well you know."

" Of course. Listen would you want to see a movie with me tonight?" Liz tucked a strand of hair back behind her ear and smiled.

" I have to work actually, but maybe another time. Listen I hate to do this but I really have to get to class."

" Okay then I'll see you." Kyle leaned in for a kiss and before Liz could really back away his lips had already touched hers.

Max walked down the main stairway that lead into the highschool with his backpack on one shoulder and his books in the other arm. He was wearing a buttoned up sily fabric maroon shirt with his black pants and boots. As he was walking down the main hallway he saw something that he wished he hadn't. Kyle Valenti was kissing Liz. Max felt his body tense up. He wanted to walk away, but he couldn't seem to get his legs to move.

Liz quickly backed away from Kyle and whispered, " Bye." As she was turning to her right she saw Max standing still and staring at her. Damn he looked good in his short sleeved maroon shirt. It was apparent to Liz that he wasn't pleased with seeing Kyle kiss her, but then again why should he care? They aren't together. Liz smiled at him and then turned away to head to first period, Biology.

Max smiled back and then turned to his locker and punching his fist into the door. A way to familar voice spoke, " Gee Maxwell. Angry are we?"

Max glanced over to his right to see Michael eating an apple. " Shutup."

" So here we are starting our sophmore year."

" Yeah."

" What do you have first period?"

" Biology, u?"

" History. "

" Have you seen Isabel?" Michael laughed and then nodded to the right. Max turned around to see a group of guys swarmed around her. Max rolled his eyes and put his book in his locker. " Well I'll see you later Michael."

" Bye Max."

Liz walked into Biology to see Maria and Alex sitting by one another. Liz smiled and then walked over to greet them. " Hey guys!"

Alex looked up and smiled, " Hey Parker. So are you going to let me copy homework?" Liz laughed.

" Alex you are really good at Biology too."

" I didn't say that I wasn't any good. I just didn't want to work." Liz playfully slapped Alex and turned to Maria. " Hey gurl."

" Hey babe. I hate Biology and I am so tired."

Liz was about to remark to Maria's last comment when the teacher, Mr. Hellman cleared his throat and asked, " Okay please now I need everyone to stand up. You have assigned seats."

Liz, Alex, and Maria exchanged frustrated looks. They then stood up and leaned up against the side of the wall. Just as the bell rang, Max came running in. Mr. Hellman sighed, " Nice of you to join us Mr. Evans."

Max nodded and stood over in the corner. Liz nearly froze when she saw Max in the corner and if it wasn't enough he was staring at her. Actually it was a good thing, but after he had told her that they couldn't be anything it now confused her.

Mr. Hellman instructed each student where to sit. Alex and Maria were lucky enough to get to sit by each other. Mr. Hellman then called out, " Evans and Parker. Table 3." Liz took a deep breath and walked over to table 3, ignoring Maria and Alex's laughter.

Max quickly and quietly sat down.

Liz sat down also and then looked to Max, but he wouldn't look at her. Liz sighed and then told herself, " Get over it Parker. There's nothing there."

They then sat in class as Mr. Hellman taught.