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Title<\/b>: The Morning After [Max\/Lix, Michael\/Maria, Isabel\/Alex, Kyle\/Tess]
\nRating\/Warnings<\/b>: R for more firstie smut.
\nSummary<\/b>: The next morning, things are still mostly broken, but on the way to being fixed.
\nA\/N<\/b>: The sequel to Still The End Of The World. In which I fix everything because I am a sap. It’s still really old, and it’s still kind of terrible. <\/p>\n
The Morning After<\/b><\/p>\n
Isabel quietly knocked on Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s door.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Max?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she called softly when there was no answer. She pushed open the door, knowing if she didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t get Max moving before their parents were awake, they would know that something serious was up. Not like they didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t already, but they hardly needed any more evidence that something was seriously wrong with both their children.<\/p>\n
Her heart leapt into her throat when she realized that Max was not in his room. She sat down on his bed, trying to decide whether to go looking for him, whether they could get back before her parents knew they were gone.<\/p>\n
Damn that tramp Liz, she thought. What she had done to Max wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t only so horrible that Isabel ground her teeth everytime she thought about it, but it was dangerous. Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s erratic behavior could blow their cover wide open.<\/p>\n
Isabel heard the window slid open behind her. She whirled around to begin yelling at Max\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6and froze when she saw Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s face.<\/p>\n
He was grinning like a fool, but the deepest sadness radiated off him like a fog.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Max?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she asked. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153What\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d She hesitated.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Right? Wrong?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max gave a dark laugh. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Everything.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Suddenly Max was hugging her so tight that she could barely breath.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Max, what\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s going on?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel demanded worriedly. Max squeezed her tighter.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll explain to everybody at once. I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t think I could get through it more that once. Izzy, I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve never been so glad to see you. I can\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t tell you how much I love having you as my sister.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153God, Max,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel clung to Max as icy fear swept through her. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Something\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s really wrong isn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t it?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Not yet,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max whispered. He pulled away suddenly and pushed Isabel towards the door. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Now get ready for school. I need a shower, and then I need to be sure that last night wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u02dct some crazy dream.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Isabel abruptly realized that Max smelled unmistakably like sex. She stopped and gripped his arm.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Max, where were you last night?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she asked urgently. Max looked at her puzzledly, then laughed as he realized that Isabel thought he had been with Tess.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153God, no, Izzy,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he assured her, the wild grin returning. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I was at Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s. And now everything\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s changed.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
The answer left Isabel even more confused, but she felt relieved for some reason and allowed herself to be pushed out Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s door.<\/p>\n
* * * * * *<\/p>\n
Liz awoke to someone climbing in her window.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Go away, Max,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she mumbled. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I have to get ready for school.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s me.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz opened her eyes to see Michael looming over her. She sat up immediately, chest tight with fear.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s wrong?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she demanded. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Is it Max?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Yeah,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Michael said. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s about Max.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz nearly blacked out. If anything had happened to Max after last night\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You have to take him back.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz was so surprised, she just stared at Michael.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Look, I know you think you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re in the way of his destiny, but the truth is that Max has no destiny without you. He won\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t eat, he won\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t sleep, he won\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t make a decision about anything, he won\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t lead for god\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s sakes Liz. You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve go to tell him you love him before he kills himself.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Liz nearly burst out laughing at the irony of Michael standing there, having missed Max sneaking out of her room by barely 15 minutes.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153God, Michael, sit down,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz said with relief. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Everything is fine.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Everything is not fine\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Michael began, but Liz shushed him by hugging him fiercely.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Max is lucky to have a friend like you,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she said. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153And if he had hung around here any longer, he would know it.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Michael realized just as Isabel had that the scent of Max and sex clung to Liz just as heavily as it had to Max.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I see I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m a little late as usual,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he said flatly.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You were great, Michael,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz laughed. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I wanted to take back Max all over again.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Michael pulled away, hearing something sad in her laughter.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Something happened, didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t it?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he asked slowly.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Max and I are going to tell everyone at once after school today,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz told him seriously. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153All of us. Kyle and Tess too.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Michael nodded, then got up and began to exit through the window.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Michael?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz called after him. He stopped and looked back at her.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What you just did for Max was amazing,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she said. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153And I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll understand if you want to keep it between us\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6but if you wanted I could mention it to Maria\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6she\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll think it\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s so romantic, she\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll be eating our of your hand.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Michael looked back at Liz for a couple seconds, then gave a half smile and disappeared onto her fire escape and was gone.<\/p>\n
* * * * * *<\/p>\n
Liz debated how to tell Maria the news about Max, knowing that if Maria wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t the first to know, she would never forgive Liz. She knew she should be sad, after all, she and Max more or less knew that the end of the world was coming. But in the morning sun with the feel of Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s touch still on her skin, she couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t wipe the smile off her face. It was a sad sort of smile, but it was the widest she had ever worn.<\/p>\n
When Maria drove up and Liz climbed into the Jetta, Maria looked at her suspiciously.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Spill it,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria ordered. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Something\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s up.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz shrugged and stared at her hands. She wanted Maria to guess her news so she could enjoy it for as long as possible. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I know that look,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria narrowed her eyes. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153That\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s the \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcback together with space boy\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 look.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Liz nodded, still not looking up.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153He was in your room again last night wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t he?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Another nod.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153And I detect from your rather puffy lips that there was serious action.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
A big nod. A bigger smile.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153How serious?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria glared at Liz who gave a little shrug and refused to meet her eye. Suddenly Maria screamed. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You gave it up to Space Boy?!!!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Maria began to cry and hugged Liz fiercely. Liz indulged in a few tears herself.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I can\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t believe it!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d sobbed Maria. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153My little chica punched her V-card before I did!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Suddenly she sobered up and
\nsunk her nails into Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s arm. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Did you use protection?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she demanded.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Not exactly,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz hedged embarrassedly.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Your first pregnancy scare!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria began to weep again. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m so proud!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I wouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t call it a scare quite yet,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz rolled her eyes, patting Maria\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s shoulder. Maria wiped her eyes and sat up. She put the car into gear and pulled out of the Crashdown\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s parking lot, nearly taking out the trash cans on the curb.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Are you sure I shouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t drive?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz asked nervously as Maria floored it to clear a very distant yellow light.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153No, no, I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m fine,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria sniffled, cutting off a minivan. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s just so romantic\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Oh!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz said excitedly. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153That brings me to the second part of my news!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153There\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s more?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria squeaked. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t think I can take any more, chica.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll love it! Guess who was in my room this morning when I woke up?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I wonder\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009dMaria said dryly.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Guess again!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz shook her head, twisting in her seat so she wouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t miss Maria\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s reaction.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Who else would climb in your window?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria asked, glancing at Liz and narrowly avoiding a pick-up truck.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Michael!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz watched with enjoyment as Maria\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s eyes widened and narrowed. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Guess why he was there!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153To beg you to make me forgive him no doubt,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria hmphed.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153No, not even close.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Really?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria said, having a moment of panic. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Oh god, is he with somebody else? I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll kill him and then I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll never forgive myself\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Maria!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz interrupted laughing. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153There isn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t anybody else for Michael and you know that, even when you two are at each other\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s throats.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153So what was he there for?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria asked, unable to contain her interest.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153He came to tell me that I had to take Max back, because he thought Max was going to start hurting himself if I didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153My Michael did that?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria asked in amazement. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153That\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s so romantic!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d She began to sniffle again.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I felt so bad for him, because he was already too late, he made this whole speech for nothing!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153That is so cute!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria was back into full sobs at this point.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Maria, I really wish you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d pull over and let me drive\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
* * * * * *<\/p>\n
As Liz climbed shakily from Maria\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s car, Max practically tackled her in a hug.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Liz, I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve begged you not to let Maria drive when you tell her news,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max whispered fiercely, squeezing her as tight as he could. Liz hugged him back every bit as hard. Liz laughed and told him what had happened with Michael that morning after he had left.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153He scared me so bad when he said it was about you,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz shivered at the memory. Max took her face in his hands.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Nothing can keep me from you now,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max told her, looking deep into her eyes. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re mine, Liz Parker, and I would come back from the dead if I had to!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Please don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t say that,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz begged, a tear sliding out of her eye.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153That is so beautiful!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max and Liz turned to see Maria leaning on the top of her car, sobbing again.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Umm, do you mind?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz asked, trying to shoo her away.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153No, no, of course not,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria sniffled, dabbing at her eyes. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m gonna go find Mich\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6I mean, go inside. But don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t stop!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria drifted away, sighing dramatically.<\/p>\n
Liz and Max laughed at their friend as she bumped and \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcexcused me\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 her way into the school.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153We should be heading in too,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz pointed out. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We did come here to go to school.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Did we?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max asked, taking Liz back into his arms and leaning his forehead against hers. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153 I didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t. I came to see you, and here you are.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I feel like these last months were a dream and I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m just waking up,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz murmured, holding on tightly to Max. Max rained kisses on her face as if he couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t get enough of her. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Are you real?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she asked Max.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Oh, god, Liz,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max breathed, covering her mouth softly with his. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You break my heart,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he whispered into her lips.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153We\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve got to stop,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz said, kissing him back harder. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We have to go to class.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I know,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max sighed, not loosening his grip. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s not right, don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t they know that I can\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t ever have enough time with you?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You should be glad we have the chance to be normal teenagers for a while longer,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz chided gently. She stood on her toes and kissed Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s forehead, before slipping out of his arms and leading him by the hand towards the school.<\/p>\n
* * * * * *<\/p>\n
The school day dragged on interminably for the eight Roswell teens. Max, Liz, Isabel and Michael got the word to the other four about the meeting in the desert after school.<\/p>\n
Biology was a royal disaster. Liz and Max couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t keep their hands off each other, and when the teacher finally separated them, they stared lustfully at each other from across the room. When they were sent to the principle\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s office, the wait of five minutes found them making out on the secretary\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s desk. They narrowly avoided having their parent\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s called and by the time they got out of the office, faces burning, the period was mercifully over. Afraid to kiss her goodbye in front of the office, Max grabbed Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s hand and sent her a flash that kept her face aflame for the rest of the day.<\/p>\n
At the end of the day, the eight of them gathered outside the school and debated the driving arrangement out to the desert. Everyone though it was best if Maria didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t drive, since she burst into loud tears at the drop of a hat, and Kyle and Tess flatly refused to ride with Max and Liz, who were so wrapped up in each other that they hardly seemed to know what was going on. In the end, Isabel drove Alex, Max, and Liz, and Kyle drove Tess, Maria, and Michael. The ride in both cars was silent, Maria having got herself under control so Michael wouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t say anything, and Max and Liz occupying themselves with flashes of what each intended to do to the other that night when Max snuck into Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s room.<\/p>\n
When they were out in complete isolation, the other six confronted Max and Liz.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s this about, Evans?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Kyle asked. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153If this is about you and Liz, I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t think an announcement is necessary.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153That was quite a display in biology,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Tess put in archly.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153It is about me and Liz,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max replied, voice grim. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153But it\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s also about all of us. Michael. Maria. Isabel. Alex. Tess. And Kyle.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d As Max looked at each of them in turn, he realized that they had arranged themselves to stand alien-human, alien-human, all the way around the circle. He glanced at Liz and knew that she saw it too.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What Liz and I know, what we\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re going to tell you, you may not believe. I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t know if I believe it yet, but it\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s the truth. And anyone who doesn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t believe it is welcome to my memories,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max said firmly, staring at Michael.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Mine too,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz added, looking at Kyle.<\/p>\n
It was hard to get their stories out, and more than a few tears were shed, but eventually Max and Liz related everything that had happened regarding their future selves. Tess looked smug as Liz repeated what the future Max had told her, but it was long gone by the time Max was done. As they finished, silence sank over the group, smothering them in the gathering dark.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Max?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel finally said. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Isn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t there anything we can do?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Max clenched Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s hand so tightly that their knuckles were both white. With her supporting him, he stepped up to be the leader that he knew he had to be from now until the end, however long that was.<\/p>\n
I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t know,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he admitted. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153But whatever happens, we stick together. We all stay, no one leaves. We fight whatever comes together.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What if one of us does leave?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Tess asked Max brazenly.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Then we die,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max said, staring her back down. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153If we don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t all stand together, then we all die. And everything we love, everything in this world does too.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What about our destinies?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Michael asked, stepping up as Tess had, and actually stepping forward physically.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Our destinies are what we make them,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max replied, gaining confidence in his roll. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve seen the destruction blind faith in our \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcdestinies\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 will cause. We make our own choices from here to the end. They may be right, they may be wrong. But those who have told us our \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcdestinies\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t know anything that we don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What about our past lives and our soulmates?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel, taking her turn to challenge Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s decision.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Whatever was is past. Isabel, you are my sister; Michael, you are my brother. I know you as I know myself, and you two will always be as brother and sister, whatever happened before. Tess, you are my blood just as much as they are. We are here now. Liz is my soulmate. Each of you has to choose your own, according to your own heart. The pain you cause in fighting reality isn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t helping anyone, least of all yourselves.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153How can we ignore everything sent from the future?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria challenged.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Each of you has to decide within yourself whether to live by the ideas given to you of what should be, or to make your own choices based on what you know to be right for what is.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What if others come?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Alex asked.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Then they will stand with us or against us as they choose.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Why do we have to listen to you and ignore everything else?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Kyle said, physically stepping forward as only Michael had.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Max turned to Liz knowing that she had the hardest question of all.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What do we do now?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she asked.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153We live NOW,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max said, again looking to each of them in turn. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153We make our own decisions, we choose our own lovers, we create our own destinies. We\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve lived on everyone else\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s terms, and the end of the world still came. Now we make the rules. No regrets.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Full dark suddenly fell on the eight like a fist, swallowing them up. Max reached out to take Alex\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s hand next to him, and Liz grasped Michael\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s on the other side. It spread from Alex to Isabel to Kyle, and from Michael to Maria to Tess, until Kyle and Tess finally clasped hands and closed the circle.<\/p>\n
The dark seemed to retreat, and each could see all the other\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s faces as if in daylight. And then suddenly, the moment was gone and they were just eight teenagers holding hands in the dark, in the desert.<\/p>\n
No one wanted to let go, afraid to lose the certainty of Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s brave words, but Maria finally broke the circle with an explosive sneeze, tearing her grip from Tess\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s. Isabel dropped Alex and Kyle\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s hands and began to rub her arms.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153We better get out of here,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max said at last, letting go of Alex, but holding on to Liz. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s freezing.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Liz gave Michael a squeeze and a nod towards Maria which she knew he saw despite the dark before letting him go.<\/p>\n
They drove home in silence as they had ridden out, but the silence of deep thought instead of oppressive fear. When they reached the school, instead of splitting up they loitered among each other, not really ready to go their separate ways. Suddenly, Kyle pointed out that it was Friday night. Not only could they all stay out late, but if it could be properly arranged, there could be a massive sleepover as well. They decided to split up for awhile and then meet at the Crashdown by 10, and anyone who could spend the night would leave from there.<\/p>\n
Isabel drove Max home, Liz rode with Alex to give Maria and Michael some space, and Kyle and Tess went back to the Valenti house.<\/p>\n
* * * * * *<\/p>\n
Maria handed Michael the keys without comment. She knew that he liked to be the one driving, even though he never had a car. But she liked to watch him drive anyhow, so it all worked out.<\/p>\n
Maria was all prepared for the usual silent car ride, and looked curiously at Michael when he cleared his throat. He glanced at her, then looked away and cleared his throat again. This performance continued with Maria\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s impatience growing until he parked in her driveway. Neither got out of the car.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Michael, I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m trying not to get my hopes up too high,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria finally said. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153So if
\nyou really aren\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t going to say anything, could you return to your customary silence?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Michael looked at her, opened his mouth, shut it, opened it, closed it and gave a sort of snort.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Michael!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria exclaimed. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Enough already!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Maria,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he finally said.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she asked breathlessly.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I wanted to tell you\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Yes?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria said impatiently.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Are you gonna keep interrupting me or what?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Michael snapped.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153If you don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t hurry up and tell me whatever it is that you want to say, then yes!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t rush me!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Michael began to raise his voice.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Just say it!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria shouted back.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153If you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d shut up for two seconds I would!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Do it!!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria leaned into Michael\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s space so their noses were almost touching.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I want to be with you!!!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Michael screamed as loud as he could in Maria\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s face.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Are you sure?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria demanded. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You can\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t take it back when you decide I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m too close or whatever crap you think is an excuse!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Yes, dammit!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Michael shouted in frustration. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Why do you have to make everything so goddamn hard!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Michael and Maria glared at each other, faces an inch apart, breathing hard for endless seconds before Michael finally grabbed Maria\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s arms hard enough to leave bruises and kissed her.<\/p>\n
A cascade of flashes engulfed them, every word and touch between them, the shouting and the making out and making up, it all flooded over them, leaving them clinging to each other in the aftermath.<\/p>\n
After a long silence, Michael took Maria\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s face in his hands and tilted her head up to look in her eyes.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I love you, Maria,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he said. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t want anyone but you. But I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m never gonna be one of those flower and candles and chocolate guys.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You say that as if I didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t know that already,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria said dryly, but she was smiling. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I want you, just like this.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I think that might be a little uncomfortable.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Maria stared at Michael as if he were an\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6well, in Michael\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s case, as if he were not an alien.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Did you just make a joke?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she asked incredulously.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I thought so,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Michael said, shifting embarrassedly. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153But if you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re gonna react like that every time, I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t think I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll do it again.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Maria laughed and kissed him hard.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll get used to it,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she told Michael, hugging him tight. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153So long as we practice.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153So there was this rabbi, this priest, and this alien\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Michael choked out breathlessly.<\/p>\n
* * * * * *<\/p>\n
Kyle tapped on the wheel as he drove, trying to think of something to say. Tess stared out the window, deep in thought.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153So, um,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he cleared his throat, trying to keep his voice from cracking. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Now that you don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t have to sit at home and wait for this destiny thing\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6do you want to see a movie some time?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Tess turned her head and stared at Kyle, who suddenly wondered what he had just gotten himself into.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Are you asking me out?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she asked. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153On a date? With you?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Well\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6yeah,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Kyle shrugged sheepishly. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I know I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m a lowly human, but my soul is enlightened.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Tess laughed a little in spite of herself.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t laugh much,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he commented.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Neither do you, Buddha boy,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Tess sighed, turning back to he window.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t answer my question,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Kyle said boldly. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I know I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t have some life-altering, world-ending destiny with you or anything, but I like you. And here on earth you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re allowed to take cute girls to the movies with no ulterior motive.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153No ulterior motives, hmm?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Tess looked at him with an eyebrow raised.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Well, okay,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Kyle admitted conspiratorially. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153But they\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re purely sexual ones.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Tess shook her head in disgust but was smiling.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Come on,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Kyle urged. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You can pour Tabasco sauce on me.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Then I suppose you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll want me to lick it off?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Tess asked.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s a win-win situation,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Kyle grinned.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153If I go out with you, will you never say that again?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Tess asked.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Yes,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Kyle answered quickly.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Fine,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Tess said.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153And this doesn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t count!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I said fine!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Tess shot back.<\/p>\n
There was a few moments of silence. Then:<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I thought you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d like the Tabasco sauce idea,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Kyle sounded slightly hurt.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You were making me hungry,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Tess said, without looking at him.<\/p>\n
She didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t sound like she was about to tell Kyle what exactly she was hungry for, so he just kept driving.<\/p>\n
* * * * * *<\/p>\n
Max was standing in the middle of his room, when he heard a noise behind him.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s up, Izzy?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he asked without turning around. Isabel came in and sat down on Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s bed. She looked at her hands twisted in her lap. Max sat down next to her and put an arm around her shoulder. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153What\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s wrong?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Are we doing the right thing?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she asked Max.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153We\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re doing the best we can,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max answered firmly. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I know it\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s a lot to decide for yourself all of the sudden.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Its not that,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel shook her head. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Michael and I have known all along that we couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t ever really be together. And he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s crazy for Maria anyway.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153But?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max prompted.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t know what to do about Alex,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel confessed. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153What if I tell him that we can be together, and then something happens tomorrow and I have to break his heart all over again? But if I wait to make sure its all right, he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll think that I just don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t want to be with him. I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t know what to do!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Why don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t you talk to Alex about it?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max asked gently. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s his decision too.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I know,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel said guiltily. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I just don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t want to hurt him. I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t want to get his hopes up and then watch him crash again.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I think crashing is one thing we have in common.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Isabel and Max looked up to see Alex standing in Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s doorway.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Your mom told me to come up and find you,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he explained. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153If I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m interrupting, I can wait in Isabel\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s room\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153No,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d said Isabel, standing up. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I need to talk to you. And I wouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t let you into my room unsupervised anyhow\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
As Isabel steered Alex out of the room, Max cleared his throat.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Um,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he said, blushing a little. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153If you guys don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t, uh, need me or anything\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Go see Liz,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel sighed. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Take the jeep, I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll ride with Alex.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Thanks,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max said, rushing out, stopping only for a split second to give Isabel a quick hug. Isabel and Alex laughed as they heard Max call \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Spending the night at Michael\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d to his and Isabel\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s parents a split second before the door slammed behind him. <\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153So that\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s our fearless leader?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Alex asked.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Shut up and be glad he\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s back to being fearless,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel said with relief. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153The suicidal leader wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t working out too well. Thank god Liz finally took him back.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153And what about the sister of the fearless leader?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Alex asked Isabel.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153She\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s been better,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel admitted. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153But things are looking up.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d She gave Alex a shy smile, and Alex laughed.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153And everybody thinks you are this ice princess,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he teased. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You can\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t even talk to the class geek without blushing.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve worked very hard for that particular reputation,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she replied haughtily. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153And I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll thank you not to spread any word to the contrary.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t know,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Alex pretended to think about it. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153A lot of guys would pay to know how I got underneath that shapely armor of yours.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Isabel abruptly threw her arms around Alex\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s neck and pressed him against the wall, kissing him breathless.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153My lips are sealed,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Alex gasped a few minutes later.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Come here and I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll keep \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcem that way,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel promised, pulling Alex by the hand into her room.<\/p>\n
* * * * * *<\/p>\n
When Liz heard her window slide open, she nearly flew off her bed and into Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s arms, almost knocking him back out the window.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What took you so long?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she demanded, peeling his jacket down his arms and out of her way. Max buried his hands in her hair and pulled her face up to his.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Isabel,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he murmured in between kisses. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Upset about Alex\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6mmm\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6 everything\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s fine now\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Good,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz said, sliding her hands under Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s shirt. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Then you can tell me about it later\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Knowing that if they didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t move now, they\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d end up on the floor, Max scooped Liz up in his arms, and moved blindly towards her bed, only realizing they were there when he cracked his shin hard on it. Max didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t even feel it. He laid Liz down and she pulled him on top of her.<\/p>\n
Liz pulled Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s shirt over his head before he had time to kiss her and get in the way. Max kissed her hard, pressing her into the bed, simultaneously sliding his hands underneath her and tugging at the clasp of her bra. He struggled with the tiny hook and loop, unable to disentangle them by touch and additionally distracted by Liz kneading his shoulders with her cool hands. Liz sat up a little against him and began to reach behind her with one hand to do it herself.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153No,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max ordered, releasing one hand to catch hers. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll get it.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz giggled as he fought with the simple latch. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll show you!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he growled.<\/p>\n
Max rolled over with Liz so she was on top of him. He held his hand over the clasp and closed his eyes for a second; the hook and loop sprang apart.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Cheater!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz accused. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153That\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s not fair at all!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll show you cheating!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max grinned wickedly. He took ahold of Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s shirt in both fists and it promptly dissolved into icy water.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153God, Max!!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz screamed, now covered from the waist up only in her soaking wet bra, which Max made short work of. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll get you for this,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she hissed through chattering teeth.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Oh will you?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he taunted. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153And just what are you going to do?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153This.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz slid her hand between them. She grabbed Max through his jeans and squeezed him hard.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I always heard that revenge was sweet,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max replied huskily, pushing against her hand. Liz smiled sweetly, then rolled off him and sat up. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Liz!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll teach you to soak me with my own shirt,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz said. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m going downstairs.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153The hell you are!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max grabbed Liz around the waist and wrestled her back down underneath him. She giggled helplessly as Max pinned her down, holding her hands above her head. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m all wet too you know!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max let go of her hands and gathered her close against him.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re so warm,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz sighed, burying her face in his hair and holding him against her chilled body.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I shouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t have done that,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max said, kissing her shoulder. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ll get sick.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Something tells me I won\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t be cold for long,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz whispered conspiratorially. Max smiled, his lips curving against Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s skin and giving her goosebumps. His kisses traveled across her neck and this time when Liz shivered, it wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t from cold.<\/p>\n
Max used a knee to edge Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s legs apart, and settled between them so less of his weight was resting on her. He rubbed his hips against hers and she gave a little grimace.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Sorry,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she murmured, kissing him. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m still sore from last night.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I can fix that,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he replied. He slid off Liz and laid beside her, rubbing wide circles on her stomach. Kissing her softly, he pushed his hand into her jeans. Max gently slid two fingers into her and closed his eyes. Liz felt warmth spread from his hand, and the ache was gone. Max started to pull his hand out of her, but she grabbed his wrist.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153As long as I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m going to have a silver handprint in an unexplainable place, we might as well make the most of it.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Max laughed and kissed her again. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Will you let me at least take your jeans off?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I suppose that would be all right,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz smiled, releasing his wrist.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I will have to pull out of you to do that,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max warned.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I think I can handle the separation for a little while,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz laughed, kissing him.<\/p>\n
Max slid his hand out of Liz. He flipped the button of her jeans open, his other hand still holding her close to him.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Ooh, one-handed,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz teased, helping him to slid her jeans down over her hips. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m impressed.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d be surprised what I can do with one hand,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max said, voice dark. Liz grabbed his hand and looked up at him. Her eyes held so much heat he could barely breathe.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122d rather see what you can do with no hands.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Max would have laughed if he hadn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t been so turned on by this unexpectedly sexual side of Liz. He didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t think she would ever stop surprising him.<\/p>\n
He pulled her under him and kissed her deeply. She ran her hands down his back and he arched against her, trying to keep his self-control long enough to do what he wanted to do to her. He moved away from Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s mouth and trailed kisses down her neck. Liz gasped when he took one of her nipples into his mouth, but he didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t linger there either. He drew a searing line down across Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s stomach with his tongue and Liz grabbed his shoulders, taking quick, shaky breaths.<\/p>\n
Torturously slowly, Max slid his mouth over the crease of her hip and kissed Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s inner thigh, purposely drawing out the process.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Christ, Max,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz hissed through clenched teeth, digging her nails deep into Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s shoulders. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Please!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Dizzy with her feel and scent, Max nearly lost control at his first taste of her. Really spicy, really sweet, said the tiny part of Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s brain that was still rational. He curled his arms around her hips and tilted her up to him as he ran his tongue over her in long, sure strokes.<\/p>\n
As much as Max wanted to bring her with his mouth, he was dimly aware that he wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t going to last much longer. As if hearing his thoughts out loud, Liz drew his head up out of her and pulled him up the length of her body. Max had managed to get his jeans off during this, although he had no recollection of doing it.<\/p>\n
She pulled him into her hard, and Max wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t conscious of anything but her face until stars clouded over his vision.<\/p>\n
He came to what could have been either second or hours later, laying limply on Liz with his head cushioned on her breasts. She was stroking his damp hair off his forehead.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t mean to lose control like that,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max sighed, hugging her awkwardly by sort of pressing against her, because he wasn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t sure that he could have moved if even if he wanted to.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153It was perfect,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz murmured, kissing the top of his head. A thought suddenly occurred to Max and he leaned his head back to look at Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s face.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Did you come?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he asked worriedly.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Ages ago,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz laughed. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You seem to have missed it.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m sorry.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max turned slightly red.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You should be. I even screamed your name.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Max stared at Liz in horror and she laughed so hard tears rolled down her cheeks.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m just teasing you,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she gasped, holding him tight.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s not funny,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max said, a little hurt.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Oh, god, your face!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz started to giggle again. Max started to pull away from her, but she pulled him back to her. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Come on, I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m sorry,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she said, making an effort to keep a straight face. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It was great, really.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve only done this twice you know,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max said stiffly.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Max,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz sighed. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You know I didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t mean it. I wouldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t give up the last two days for anything. I love you.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I love you too, Liz,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max slumped against her. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153It\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s just everything that\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s happened in the last two days. I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m waiting for the other shoe to fall. I didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t sleep at all last night because I was terrified that it would have all been a dream.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Everything\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s going to be fine,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz assured him, closing her eyes. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Maria\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s going to be up here any minute demanding to know what\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s taking us so long, so lay there and enjoy the quiet while you can.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
The easy rise and fall of her chest relaxed Max, but he still didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t want to sleep. He tried to fight the heaviness of his eyelids as they closed of their own volition, not wanting the moment to end. The months of separation from Liz had instilled in him a need to memorize the details of every moment possible that he could spend with her. On a rational level he realized that he would die before losing her again, but a primal part of him replied that it didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t care.<\/p>\n
Sure enough, Maria was pounding on Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s door much sooner than Max was prepared to deal with.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I know you\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re in there!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she shouted through the door. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153This is your two minute warning! I have no desire to see your naked bodies, but if you aren\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t downstairs in the Crashdown in five minutes, fully clothed, I will send in Kyle and Tess who will be only too happy to pry you apart!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153We\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re coming, Maria,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz sighed.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You had better be!\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria continued to shout. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I mean, it\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s all well and good to be soulmates, but I had to drag Michael\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s sorry ass all the way over here, and if I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m not getting any\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
Max eased himself out of Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s bed and went to the door. He flung it open, cutting Maria off mid-word. Her jaw nearly hit the floor.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153We\u00e2\u20ac\u2122re coming,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he said with a smile, enjoying Maria\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s obvious struggle to keep her eyes on his face.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153All right then,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Maria swallowed, then fled, face crimson. Max closed the door and turned to Liz, who was staring at him, wide-eyed.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Now that was funny,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he said smugly.<\/p>\n
* * * * * *<\/p>\n
When Max and Liz finally trudged down into the Crashdown, they found everybody else waiting for them. Maria refused to look Liz in the eye.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Well, no wonder they took so long,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Alex said, tugging at a strand of Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s wet hair. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You were wasting your time up there showering?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Um, something like that,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz murmured. She was relieved that she had noticed the gashes on Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s shoulders so he could heal those before anyone asked him about them.
\n\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s the plan?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max asked.<\/p>\n
Everybody had told their parents that they were spending the night at somebody else\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s house. The choice of where to go was between Michael\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s, who had his own apartment, or Maria\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s, whose mom was out of town for the weekend. They finally ended up choosing Michael\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s apartment, because it was within walking distance of Roswell\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s cheapest pizza place.<\/p>\n
Michael\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s apartment was pretty full with the eight of them, but no one felt overwhelmed. Max said that after everything that had happened to keep all of them apart, it was good to finally have them all in touching distance.<\/p>\n
They all crashed out on the floor of Michael\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s living room, and after stuffing themselves with pizza and laughing themselves silly over the late night movie (Plan 9 From Outer Space<\/i>, appropriately), nearly everybody was out cold.<\/p>\n
Liz was still wide awake. She smiled at Max curled up beside her, snoring loudly, and pried the popcorn bowl out of his grasp. As she munched on the popcorn, she pondered how they had all ended up here together. Watching all of her friends tonight, she had realized how much she missed the times before. Before they all had destinies and the fate of the planet on their shoulders. Watching Alex and Kyle had really brought the old times back to her. When she had dated Kyle, they had been good friends, and their familiar banter had filled her heart. She glanced over at Maria, clinging to Michael in her sleep as if he she thought he would escape before she woke up. <\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Let me have some of that,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d said Isabel, who was on the other side of Liz. She sat up and took a handful of popcorn. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Aren\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t you tired?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel asked.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Exhausted,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz admitted. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153But I don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t want this day to end yet.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I know what you mean,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel agreed, gazing down at Alex asleep against her other side. The ate in companionable silence for a few moments before she spoke again. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Liz, I owe you an apology.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153For what?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz asked.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153When you hurt Max, I was so angry with you,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel explained with difficulty. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I thought that you were just some human tramp, just like everyone else. I should have known that you would never hurt Max for no reason. After all the time that we\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve spent together over the last year, I should have trusted you.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t know, Isabel,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz shook her head. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t have known.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I just feel awful about it,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d she said guiltily.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153You didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t do anything wrong,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz assured her. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153You just wanted to protect Max. I want the same thing.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I can\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t believe you did all that alone,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel said quietly.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I did it for all of us,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz murmured. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m so glad its all over.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153I couldn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t have done it.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Isabel took Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s hand and gave it a squeeze. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I know that I used to give you a hard time, but now I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m glad Max told you about us. I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122m glad you and Maria and Alex and even Kyle are here with us, that now we don\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t have to handle this alone.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d She gave Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s hand a final squeeze, then slid back down next to Alex and soon Liz heard Isabel\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s breathing even out. <\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Wow,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max said next to Liz. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153I can\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t believe that was Izzy.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Your sister loves you very much,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz smiled, setting the popcorn bowl aside and sinking into Max\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s arms. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153She worries about you.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153All of us here together,\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Max said reflectively, \u00e2\u20ac\u0153it feels so right. How could I believe that my destiny didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t involve all eight of us?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/p>\n
As he held Liz, another flash took a hold on him, but this one didn\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t take him over with the usual violence. This vision trickled over him, filling up all the torn and empty places in his soul that he had accumulated over the last year.<\/p>\n
He saw them, all of them, in the desert. Liz was next to him, and when he looked down at her, she looked older, just like the future Liz had looked. Only where in the future Liz\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s face there had been only pain and loss, this Liz radiated with happiness. He looked up at each one in turn, and felt a sense of utter completion and satisfaction course through him\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6<\/i><\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Did you see that?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d he whispered in awe.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153What does it mean?\u00e2\u20ac\u009d Liz asked, clinging to him tightly.<\/p>\n
Max felt like jumping up and waking everybody else up, like shouting as loud as he could or singing or anything, nothing could ever express the relief and joy he felt. He settled for squeezing Liz so tight that she squealed and crying a little.<\/p>\n
\u00e2\u20ac\u0153It means everything\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s going to be fine.\u00e2\u20ac\u009d\n<\/p>\n