posted on 13-Jun-2002 12:16:28 AM by starbright
Fires01
Title: Fires Burn Bright
Author: starbright
Category: AU and mainly M/L with a little bit of M/M, A/I and K/T
Rating: right now it’s PG-13, but I don’t know about later
Summary: This is a challenge from PSW2001 that I saw back in October. The challenge is listed before the story. That’s all I’m telling.
Disclaimer: Roswell and its characters belong to JK and the limbo that they are in now. I own nothing except this computer and maybe a couple bucks in my bank. So, please don’t sue.
Author’s Note: This is my first fic (that I’ve posted), so please be gentle. I would like to thank gracie (applebybehr) for convincing me to post this. So, gracie, this is dedicated to you. Also, feedback would be appreciated, good or bad.

Ok, here’s the challenge from PSW2001:

1) Max is a fireman, Liz is an ER doctor. Maria, Michael, Alex,
Isabel, Kyle and Valenti should be included.
2) Their first meeting is in the ER. It is because Max's
colleague gets hurt during their duty. Liz is in charge to
heal him. Max argues with Liz about his colleague's injures or
something else.
3) Their second meeting, Liz gets drunk due to the problems
with her boyfriend and has a car accident. Max
rescues her from the car that is going to explode.
4) Max visits Liz in the hospital and they become friends.
5) Max helps Liz to get over Sean.
6) After a while, Max gets serious injuries during his action
and ... ...

Part 1

Elizabeth Parker sighed as she stared out her living room window. She turned her head and noticed her roommate was staring at her. “Sorry Maria. You were saying?” Liz asked.

“I swear girl, if you weren’t my best friend, I’d-” The sound of a beeper cut off Maria DeLuca’s ranting

“Ugh! Duty calls.” Liz stood up and stretched.

“Lizzy, ignore it. Today is your day off. Enjoy it and take a break for once.”

“Maria, you know I can’t. They must really need me in there if they’re paging me on my day off.”

“Fine, fine. Don’t blame me for your lack of a life. I’m surprised that you still have time to date Sean. Not that I haven‘t told you to dump that loser.” Sean DeLuca was Maria’s cousin, whom she didn’t really like. He had kept asking Liz over and over until she finally said yes just to shut him up.

Maria looked up and saw the door closing. She stood up and ran to the window. “Go now. But, next time, you’re not leaving as easily!” Maria yelled.

“Bye Maria.” Liz yelled back at her roommate as she pulled out of the driveway.

Liz pulled into the hospital parking lot. The multitude of ambulances there caught her attention. Liz opened her door and ran inside the ER doors.

“Liz, you’re finally here.” Liz turned around just as Isabel Whitman handed her a lab coat.

“Hey Iz. What happened?”
****
In the corner of a fire station, two friends were hunched over a table. “I call your five and raise you ten.” Michael Guerin checked his hand again, making sure that he was doing the right thing.

Max Evans laughed at his friend. “You so sure of your hand? Fine. I call.” The money was tossed, and the siren sounded throughout the building. The game forgotten, the cards were tossed on the table, mingling with the bills and coins. People scattered around; some changing and some rushing down the pole to change.

The trucks left the station at dangerous speeds. “Maxwell, drive faster!” Michael yelled at his friend.

“Michael, I don’t think we can. I’m going as fast as I..” Max’s voice stopped as he stared straight ahead.

“Max, Max! What is it?” Max couldn’t speak. All he could do was point. Michael turned his head. “Holy shit.” They had seen the smoke, but somehow they didn’t expect it to be this bad.

Max parked the truck as quick as he could and they jumped out, grabbing various equipment on their way. Max grabbed the hose and started spraying.

“HELP!” A voice yelled from inside. Someone was still in there and, by the sound of it, it was a child. Michael ran in there, not knowing what to expect. He ran out with the child in his arms several minutes later. That’s when the building decided to explode.




So, is it ok? Sorry that it's so short, I wanted to see what you people thought about it. So what did you think?








[ edited 18time(s), last at 24-Nov-2002 10:04:01 PM ]
posted on 13-Jun-2002 11:25:29 AM by starbright
You guys seriously like this? Wow! Well, I'll see about posting Part 2 tonight.
Max as a firefighter is one of the things that appealed me to this story. So, I hope you're liking it so far.
*bounce*

-Ann
posted on 14-Jun-2002 12:21:36 AM by starbright
Ok guys. Here's part 2. Enjoy! (Hopefully)


Part 2

“Well, a building caught on fire then exploded.” Isabel explained. “You have room two. The patient’s unconscious, but my brother is in there with him.”

“You have a brother? And I’m finding this out now because..” Liz looked at Isabel waiting for an answer.

“Because you never asked. Anyway, Max is in there with him because he’s Michael’s best friend and colleague. He was there when the explosion occurred.”

Liz grabbed the clipboard and looked at Isabel. “Why couldn’t you take this one?”

Isabel stared at Liz. “I know the patient. It wouldn’t be right. Besides, you’re the best one here.” Isabel smiled and left.

“Hey Iz.” Liz yelled. “You and Alex are coming over tonight, right?”

Isabel started walking backwards. “Wouldn’t miss it for the world.” She turned around and kept going.

Liz shook her head at her friend. She knocked on the door and walked in. “Hello. My name’s Dr. Elizabeth Parker. You can call me Liz. I’ll be Mr....” Liz looked down at the clipboard, “Guerin’s doctor. “ Liz looked up and met the most beautiful eyes that she had ever seen. The guy who owned those eyes was covered with black smudges from head to toe. His shirt also showed off all the muscles that he had obtained during his duties. But it was his eyes that took her in.

“Max Evans.” Max stuck out his hand and Liz took it. Both of them shivered as a slight tingle passed thru their bodies. Liz stared at their hands. Neither of them was letting go. Max made the break first.

Liz shook her head, trying unsuccessfully to clear it. She looked around the room in shock.. What was she doing, again? She looked over and saw the bed. Right, the patient! She looked over at Max. Her eyes darted away. ‘Bad idea. You have a boyfriend Liz. His name is... His name is... Damnit, what the hell is his name? Sean! Hah, I knew it. Just keep saying it over and over. Sean Sean Sean Sean.’ She looked at Max again. ’Not working Liz.’

“You ok, Dr. Parker?” Max asked.

Whether he was trying not to laugh, or generally worried, Liz couldn’t tell. “Yeah, I’m fine. So, Mr. Evans-”

“Please, call me Max.”

“Ok, Max, can you tell me what happened?” Liz checked some of Michael’s vitals.

“Well, basically we were playing poker when the siren went off. When we reached the site, there was thick black smoke everywhere. In the back of our minds, we knew that it was pretty serious, but we didn’t know the extent. I manned the hose while everyone else did various things. That was until we heard the voice inside. Michael here tried to play hero and ran inside after the voice. He ran out minutes later with a girl in his arms. The building exploded then. The girl is alright. Michael took most of the damage, considering he was in between the building and the girl. We managed to control the flames that erupted after the explosion. An ambulance than rushed Michael and me here.”

“Well, his vitals seem to be ok. I’ll come back and check on him later.” Liz finished writing down the necessary information and began to walk out of the room.

“That’s it? That’s all that you’re gonna do?” Max gestured to the monitor. “Check his things on that machine over there and leave?” Max was angry. His anger wasn’t directed towards Liz, it just seemed that way on the outside. Michael had been Max’s childhood friend and it pained Max to see him like this.

Liz, on the other hand, misinterpreted his anger. “There’s nothing else I can do right now.”

Max just laughed. It wasn’t the kind of laugh that you hear when someone’s happy or after a joke. It was the kind of laugh that sounded forced and scared people out of their mind. “You can’t do anything else? What about the burns? What about the bruises? What the hell do you plan on doing about those?”

“Max, I’m going to have to ask you to lower your voice. You’re disturbing everyone else.”

“I’ll lower my voice when you do something God damnit!” Max’s voice had gotten even louder and even cracked. Tears could be seen forming in his eyes.

“There’s nothing I can do right now!” Liz was yelling right back at Max. “Taking your anger and frustration out on me is not going to help. Good-bye Mr. Evans.” Liz turned her back on him and walked out of the room.

Max swung his arm and knocked the stuff that was on the counter off. After a moment, he bent down and picked up the items and put them back. He slumped into the chair and swiped at his eyes. He put his head in his hands and shook it. ‘What the hell is wrong with me?’ First he feels this connection towards this complete stranger. Then he blows up at said stranger for no reason. ‘I have to get out of here and get some air.’ Max stood up and faced Michael. “Sorry bud. I have to get out of here.” Max opened the door and looked behind him again. Michael looked so peaceful. Max turned back around and left. He walked down the hall and out the main doors. Liz turned the corner and walked up the same hallway.
****
“Maria, I’m home.” Liz yelled as she shut the door.

“In the kitchen, hon.”

Liz walked into the kitchen and the smell of spaghetti bombarded her. “I talked to Isabel. She and Alex are coming. Did you get a hold of Kyle and Tess?” Liz stuck her finger in and tasted the sauce.

“Yeah. Tess said that she and Kyle had an errand to run and they’d be here when they’re done. Personally, I think an “errand to run” is a codeword for sex. They are newlyweds after all.”

“MARIA!’ Liz almost dropped the glass that she had taken out of the cabinet.

“What? Five bucks says that I’m right.”

“Fine you’re on. So, any word from the adoption agency?”

“Nope. Nothing.”

“Don’t worry Maria. They’ll find her.” Liz patted her friends shoulder.

Maria decided to change the subject. “Why’d they buzz you in.”

Liz knew what Maria was doing, and she let her do it. “Well, Isabel buzzed me in. She got bored and wanted company. She gave me her patient first, though. Some guy that she knew growing up. Said that she wouldn’t feel right being his doctor. Oh. Did Iz tell you that she has a twin brother?”

“She what? No she didn’t? Why do you ask?” Maria checked the noodles and determined that they were done.

“My patient had his colleague with him. Guess who it was?” Liz finished pouring her drink and put the rest in the fridge.

“The twin. So, why was your patient in the hospital?”

“They’re firefighters. While on duty today, the building they were trying to put out exploded.”

“Oh My God! Was anyone hurt?” Maria forgot about her sauce and faced Liz.

“Maria, you may have died your hair, but your roots are pure platinum. My patient was in the explosion and thus rushed to the hospital. “

“Oh.” Maria went back to her sauce. “Was he hot?”

“MARIA! What am I going to do with you?” Liz sighed and raked her hand thru her hair. “Which one?”

“Either or. Doesn’t matter much to me.” Maria turned off the sauce and checked on the garlic bread.

“Well, Michael, my patient, looked ok but not to my liking. Now Max is a different story all together.” Liz sighed and stared at the ceiling.

“Lizzy, you like him!” Maria started jumping up and down.

Liz stared at Maria and started laughing.. “Max and me. Uh uh. No way. Firstly, I’m dating Sean. Remember him, he’s your cousin. Secondly, Max was extremely rude to me.”

“Liz, you’re just lying to yourself. Admit it, you’ll feel better when you do.” Maria patted Liz’ knee and checked the bread again.

“Fine, fine. We had this sorta connection when we shook hands.”

Maria just stared at Liz and shook her head. “Sorta?”

“Alright. It was like I touched a live wire or something. You happy? And he had these eyes. He could get anyone to do anything with those eyes. They pulled you in.” Liz looked up to see Maria smiling and trying not to laugh. “What?”

“I knew you liked him. I could see it in your eyes. So, is my darling cousin going to grace us with his presence tonight?” Maria took the bread out of the oven and faced Liz.

“No. He said that he already had plans with his friends.” Liz noticed the look that Maria was giving her. “And I trust him. He has no reason to lie to me.”

The doorbell stopped the fight before it started. “I got it.” Maria ran to the door and flung it open. She took one look at Kyle and Tess and turned her head towards the kitchen.

“Liz! Cough up my five bucks!”





What did you think? Feedback, please.
posted on 14-Jun-2002 2:48:01 PM by starbright
I would like to thank all of you who've left feedback so far. Anyway, I'm leaving for a week long mission trip to South Dakota tomorrow morning. I won't be able to post tonight because I'll be packing, which is what I should be doing now. So, expect a new part next Saturday night. I think I'll be able to find some time to write in the van. It's only a 17 hour trip there and back (LOL)! That's 34 hours of sitting there and watching the scenary go by if I don't write.

Ok. I really should go pack now. Thought I'd give you guys a heads up.
*bounce*

-Ann
posted on 22-Jun-2002 10:54:58 PM by starbright
OK guys. I just got home. It took a lot longer than I expected it to. I know I promised you all a new part. I have it written, but not typed. I'd love to have it out tonight, but I'm too tired to even type this. So, I'll have it ready for you tomorrow morning.

Sorry!!!!!!!!!!

-Ann
posted on 25-Jun-2002 1:26:56 AM by starbright
Thanks for all the feedback so far guys! I know I promised a new part Sunday, but, in my lack of sleep, I forgot that that was my brother's birthday. So, we ended up doing the celebrating thing all day. I was going to post on Monday, but I couldn't get onto the board at all until now. I hope you guys like it.


Part 3

Liz sighed as she came into the living room. She pulled out her wallet and placed the five dollars in Maria’s outstretched hand. “You were right, I was wrong.” Liz turned towards her friends. “It appears that Maria has lost her manners.” Liz made a sweeping motion with her arm. “Please come in and join us.”

Maria smiled and put the money in her back pocket and stuck her tongue out at Liz. “I was about to say that until you so rudely stopped me.” Maria followed them into the living room.

Kyle and Tess sat on the couch, his arm slung over her. “Do we want to know what that was about?” Kyle looked between the two girls in front of him.

Liz covered Maria’s mouth before she could respond. “It was nothing that you need to worry about.” Liz sat down in one of the chairs and Maria took the other. “So, you enjoying your time off, Kyle?” Liz asked.

This set Maria off in hysterics. “Ignore her. The dye is going to her head. I really want to know.” Liz leaned on her knee.

“It’s great. You have no idea what it’s like to not live by a beeper. It hasn’t gone off at all. Tess and I have been able to see a lot of things around the city.” Tess snuggled closer to her husband.

“Yeah, I wish I didn’t have to live off a beeper. Today, I got beeped in, on my day off none the less. Here, I thought that it was an emergency. All it was was that Isabel didn’t feel comfortable taking on her new patient, so she called me in to take care of it and because she wanted my company. She got a little bored without you or me there to talk to.” Liz sighed and leaned back in her chair.

Kyle laughed. “I’m so glad that she didn’t beep me.”

Maria couldn’t help but make a jab. “She knew she’d interrupt some “site seeing” .”

Kyle glared at Maria. After she stopped laughing, he turned to Liz. “Why didn’t she feel comfortable with her patient?”

Liz turned her gaze from Maria to Kyle. “She and her brother grew up with him.”

“Wait. Isabel has a brother?” Kyle looked shocked, as did Tess.

“Yeah, a twin. She didn’t tell any of us. I wonder why.”

The doorbell went off again. Kyle whistled. “Speak of the devil and he shall appear.”

Liz opened the door. Isabel and Alex were standing on the porch, a pie in Iz’ arms. “Right on time. C’mon in, we’re about to eat.” Liz led them into the kitchen where Maria had already seated the other two. “Put the pie on the counter and sit down.”

They ate and had some minor conversations. Isabel looked at Maria. “Any word yet from the agency?” Maria looked down and shook her head.

Liz took pity on her friend and decided to change the subject. Liz asked Isabel the question that had been bugging her all day. “Iz, why didn’t you tell us about Max?”

“Slow down. Who’s Max?“ Alex looked at Liz, a puzzled expression on his face.

Everyone looked towards Isabel. She took a deep breath and looked towards everyone. She’d never told anyone. “When I was 16, I ran away from home. I had some issues that I couldn’t handle. That’s how I met all of you. At the hospital, I recognized the name and panicked. I knew that where ever Michael was, Max wouldn’t be to far behind. I looked in and saw him. I haven’t seen them since I was 16. So, after the panic, I beeped you because I couldn’t handle it and I needed a friend.”

“Oh my God Izzy. I thought you beeped me in because you were bored. I had no idea.” Liz got up and hugged Isabel. “Why didn’t you tell us?”

“I’m sorry guys. I’ve tried to forget my past. It was kinda brought back up, so I decided that it was time. It must be a small world after all if my brother ended up in the same city as me.”
****
Michael slowly opened his eyes and squeezed them shut again. ‘Way to bright.’ He tried again and looked around the room. All he saw was white. The first thing that he noticed was the irritating beeping coming from next to him. His vision slowly cleared and he noticed a woman looking at the machine next to him. “Make the noise stop.” Michael whispered.

Liz looked up at her patient. It had been nearly a week since he was brought in. “Well, good morning Mr. Guerin. I’m afraid that if the noise stops, you will stop. So, I think you’ll have to put up with it for awhile. How are you feeling.”

Michael squeezed his eyes shut again. He brought his hand up to his face and felt the beard that was growing. “Like I’ve been hit with a sledge hammer.”

Liz laughed. “Well, do you remember what happened?” She started making some notes on his chart.

Michael thought for a second. “I remember a poker game. And then the siren going off.” He paused.

Liz looked up from her writing. “Go on.”

“I remember the truck going to the site. I remember the fire. A voice from inside caught my attention. I ran in after it. At first, I couldn’t find it. After searching for what seemed like forever, I finally found her. I got her out of there as soon as possible. I remember hearing an explosion. The next thing I know, I’m waking up here.” Michael looked up at Liz. “Where is here, exactly?”

“You’re at Roswell Memorial. My name’s Dr. Liz Parker. You’ve been here for nearly a week. That little girl you were talking about, she lost her family that night. They were rushed here. She was the only one to survive.”

One of the nurses knocked on the door. “Excuse me doctor. Mr. Guerin has a visitor.”

Liz looked towards Michael. “Send them in.” Liz turned towards Michael. She pointed her finger at him. “You behave.”

Michael looked at her in shock. Before he could say anything, a little girl walked into the room with a woman in a suit behind her. The woman looked at Michael and stuck out her hand. “Hi. My name’s Michelle Turner. I work for the adoption center. This here is Amy Phillips. Do you remember her?”

Michael shook Michelle’s hand and stared at the little girl. “I’m sorry. I don’t remember you.” Michael thought harder. “Wait. You were the girl in the building. The one that I pulled out.”

Michelle smiled. “I’m glad that you remember. Why don’t I let the two of you talk.” Michelle again smiled at them and left the room.

Amy looked up at Michael with tears in her eyes. She gave a tentative wave. “Hi.” She whispered.
****
Max looked at his friends empty spot and sighed again. He hadn’t been there to see him since the incident with Liz. What was it about that girl? She constantly plagued his thoughts and his dreams. He only met her once, but that was enough to do him in. He was starting to fall and was going down fast.
****
Liz looked towards Michael. “You sure you’re ready to leave?”

Michael looked up from signing his name. “Yeah. I’m going crazy in here. That and I have a really annoying doctor.” Michael smiled at Liz and returned to signing his forms.

Maria came up behind Liz and hugged her. “Hey chica. How’s it going?”

Michael looked up again at the sound of the angel’s voice. His jaw nearly hit the floor. He closed it as quickly as possible. Liz still saw, however.

“Maria, I want you to meet my ex-patient, Michael Guerin.” Liz tried not to laugh at the looks on her new and old friends faces.

Maria recovered first. “Maria DeLuca.” She stuck her hand out and waited for him to respond. When he didn’t, Liz elbowed him in the ribs. Michael rubbed his side and took Maria’s hand in his. “Michael Guerin.” The connection wasn’t as strong as Max and Liz’, but it was still there none the less. Maria dropped his hand as if he burned her.

Maria tried to calm her racing heart. “I’ve heard a lot about you.”

Michael stared at her with intrigue. “Really? From who?”

Isabel unknowingly choose that moment to walk up to Liz. When she noticed that Michael was there, she turned around as fast as she could. She wasn’t fast enough.

“Isabel?” Michael asked astonished.





What did you guys think? Worth the wait? Just remember, more feedback=more writing. So, leave feedback.
posted on 5-Jul-2002 4:48:32 PM by starbright
Alright guys. I'm leaving for another mission trip tomorrow morning. I know, I know. What can I say? I'm a big time volunteer person. A group of 12 of us are going to Arkansas. The Ozarks (sp?) to be exact. I'll be back next Saturday.

Sorry for the lack of updates. Life sucks and I haven't had much time to write. Not to mention the huge writer's block. I know where this story is going, but getting there is the problem. So, I'll try to write in my down time next week. Wish me luck and I'll see you in a week.

-Ann
posted on 23-Jul-2002 10:45:22 PM by starbright
WOW! Who gave me five stars? Anyway, I'm almost done with the next part. I don't know when it'll be posted, but I thought that you guys would like to know that. And a big welcome to all the new readers. Well, gotta go.

-Ann

P.S.- The writer's block is nearly gone!
posted on 30-Jul-2002 12:42:07 AM by starbright
Ok, guys. I should’ve done this a long time ago, but I’m going to attempt to respond to my feedback. I’m only going to do it for the feedback after my last chapter, otherwise it’s too hard. Here we go:

m14- That wasn’t very nice of Liz, was it? As to what Iz will say, you’ll just have to see. As for her running away, I added that. Thanks for the feedback. And the 3 bumps. And the bump with the wish of luck.

Lucky Star- Glad that you’re loving it. Thanks for the feedback. And the 2 bumps. And the wish of luck.

applebybehr- I was worried that you weren’t going to like it. Isabel’s past will be revealed later in the story. Thanks for the feedback. And the 3 bumps. And the wish of luck.

ISLANDGIRL5- I’m glad that you’re enjoying this. Thanks for the feedback. And the bump.

aZNroSweLl anglgrl- Thanks for the feedbacks.

roswellluver- Yep. In the hospital of all places. Thanks for the feedback.

Eccentric One- Glad that you’re liking this. Max as a firefighter is a very yummy picture. You liked that line, huh? Thanks for the feedback.

carolina_moon- Thanks for the bump.

Kitcat26- Isabel’s running away will be revealed later in the story. Thanks for the feedback. And for the wish of luck. I might take you up on your offer later.

salonica- Glad that you’re liking this. As for Max and Liz, you’ll just have to wait and see. Thanks for the feedbacks.

BlondeDramaQueen- Thanks for the 2 bumps.

limegreenli- *blushes* Thanks for the compliment. I was wondering when someone would ask about the agency. You’ll just have to wait and see. Thanks for the feedback.

And thank you to the others who gave me feedback before the last chapter. You know who you are.

I'll be posting part 4 tomorrow on one condition. You guys tell me how much you want it. The more you beg, the more it'll persuade me to post. Also, I'll be asking you guys some questions on the story. Gotta go.

-Ann











posted on 30-Jul-2002 12:18:37 PM by starbright
I'm bumping my own fic. How sad is that?
posted on 30-Jul-2002 11:49:09 PM by starbright
Ok, guys. I know that it's been awile, but here's part 4. My questions will be at the end.

This part is dedicated to frances and Lucky Star for begging. LOL!

Here we go!

from part 3

Maria tried to calm her racing heart. “I’ve heard a lot about you.”

Michael stared at her with intrigue. “Really? From who?”

Isabel unknowingly choose that moment to walk up to Liz. When she noticed that Michael was there, she turned around as fast as she could. She wasn’t fast enough.

“Isabel?” Michael asked astonished.

Part 4

Isabel turned back around and faced her past. “Michael, “ she whispered , her eyes misting. Isabel dropped her clipboard and her hand flew to her mouth. She slowly started walking backwards. “No,” she whispered.

Liz grabbed Isabel’s arm. “Isabel. You ok?”

“No,” Isabel said a little louder this time. She jerked her arm out of Liz’ grasp and ran the other way down the hall. She wasn’t ready to face her past yet.

Liz looked at Michael and Maria. “I’ll be right back.” With that, she took off after her friend.

Maria took her eyes away from Liz’ back and turned towards Michael. “So, it would appear that you know Isabel.”

Michael kept looking down the hall as he responded. “Yeah. We kinda grew up together. I haven’t seen her in years. I guess it truly is a small world after all.”

Maria chuckled a little at that. “You got that right.” An idea suddenly came to her. “Would you like to go get some coffee?”
****
“Isabel! Wait up!” Liz finally caught up to her friend. She put her hands on her knees and hunched over. “Damn girl. You can run. No wonder you were on track in high school.”

Liz succeeded in her attempt to get Isabel to laugh. Iz wiped away her tears and slumped against the wall. Liz sat down next to her and placed her hand on Iz’ knee. “What’s with the tears, sweetie? You knew he was here. Remember? You forced me to take him.”

Isabel laughed again. “I’m not ready, Liz. I can’t face them yet. It’s too soon.” Isabel closed her eyes and started shaking. “God! All this can’t be good foe the baby.” Isabel mumbled.

Liz’ ears perked up. “Really?” She leaned over and enveloped Isabel in a hug. She pulled back and looked at Isabel again. “Does Alex know?”

Isabel looked down and stared at the ground. “Not yet. I just found out the other day. How am I supposed to tell him? ‘Honey, by the way, I’m pregnant. Oh, can you pass the potatoes?’ I think not. What if he’s mad. What if he doesn’t want this baby? What if he doesn’t want me because of the baby.”

Liz put her arm around her friend, trying to comfort her. Liz picked up her eyes and looked in front of her. “Why don’t you ask him yourself?”

Isabel looked up to see Alex standing in front of her. Liz squeezed Iz’ shoulders and stood up. “I’m gonna go check on Michael and Maria. See if they killed each other yet.” Isabel giggled and Alex cracked a smile. Liz turned to leave and Alex took her spot on the floor.

“How’d you know to come?” Isabel asked, not looking up at him.

“One of the nurses saw you and called me.” He paused and looked at Isabel. “How far along are you?”

Isabel sighed and leaned her head against the wall. “A little more than two months. I’ll leave if you want me too.”

Alex turned Isabel to face him and tilted her head up till she was looking him in the eye. “Don’t you ever think that way again. I love you and our baby. I meant our wedding vows. ‘Till death do us part’. I’m stuck with you forever. And the same goes for you. You’re stuck with me forever. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Isabel wrapped her arms around his neck and sobbed into his shoulder. Alex rubbed her back and tried to calm her down..
****
Michael laughed at Maria’s question. “Coffee sounds really good right now.” He brought his hand up and rubbed his chin. “And a shave.”

Maria giggled and stroked Michael’s beard. “I don’t know. I kinda like it.” She pulled her hand back as silence fell upon them. “We should get going.” Maria stated.

“Yeah. To the, uh...”

“Coffee shop.”

“Yeah. The coffee shop. Lead the way.”

They got outside and started walking towards the shop. Michael stuffed his hands into his pockets. “So, how do you know Isabel?”

Maria sighed as her mind traveled down memory lane. “We all met Isabel in high school.”

“We?”

“Yes, we. Me, Liz, Kyle, Tess, and Alex, Iz’ husband.”

“Wait. Isabel Evans is married?”

“It’s Isabel Whitman now and yes, she’s married. Quit interrupting me or you’ll never hear the whole story. Anyway, it was the middle of sophomore year when Isabel first came to West Roswell High. She seemed so scared and confused. The five of us took her in and she joined our little group. Alex fell head over heels for her. It took her awhile, but she eventually started dating Alex. She seemed distrustful of us. It was like she was waiting for us to turn on her. That changed. After high school, we went to college together. Just the six of us. Liz, Kyle, and Iz went to med-school after that. We all stayed friends. Iz and Alex then got married a couple years ago.”

Michael pulled the door and held it open for Maria. “Wow. She’s had quite a life since she left.”

“That she has. Do you know why she left?”

“I wish I could say that I did. One minute she was there, the next she wasn’t. This is the first time I’ve seen her in so long and oh my god.” Michael reached up and pinched the bridge of his nose.

“What? What is it?” Maria looked up at him, concerned.

“Max doesn’t know that she’s here.”
****
Max walked out of his room and into the kitchen. He could have sworn that he heard the doorknob turning. He turned back around and heard the door swing open. Max looked over his shoulder and saw his roommate standing there.

“You’re awake!” He ran up and hugged his friend. Michael looked around awkwardly and patted his friend’s back. Max pulled back and coughed, realizing what he was doing. “Good to have you back, man.” Max patted his back and turned back towards his room.

Michael contemplated whether or not to tell him about Isabel. “Max.” Michael yelled. Max turned back around and looked and Michael questionably.

“Yeah?”

In the end, Michael chickened out. “Thanks.”

Max smiled at Michael. “Not a problem.” Max walked back into his room and closed the door.

“Damnit Guerin.” Michael cursed himself as he walked into the bathroom towards his razor.
****
“You ok, honey?” Maria walked into the living room and saw Liz sitting on the couch, staring out the window.

Liz turned her head at the sound of her friend’s voice. “Yeah, I’m fine.”

Maria sat down next to Liz. “Liar.” She patted her lap and Liz put her head in it. Maria started stroking Liz’ hair. “You wanna tell me the truth?”

“I just talked to Sean. He cancelled on me again. He said that he had a poker night planned with the boys over at his house that he forgot to tell me about.” Liz sighed as she sat back up.

“You know what? Go play with them. Who says that girls can’t ply poker. Go over there and play with them. Don’t let my dumb-ass cousin push you around and tell you what to do.”

“You’re right, Maria. I’m going over there. Wish me luck.”

“You go girl!” Alex yelled from the kitchen. Isabel’s laugh could be heard following it.

“Thanks Alex.” Liz yelled back. Liz took a deep breath and let it out. She gave Maria a hug and went out the front door.

Liz pulled out of the driveway and cranked the radio. She sang along and silently prepped herself. She pulled into Sean’s driveway and took another deep breath. “Just relax Liz,” she silently coached herself.

She stepped out and walked up the walkway. She turned the knob and found it looked. Not wanting to disturb the game, she pulled the spare key that Sean gave her out of her purse. She put it in the lock and turned. Liz opened the door and screamed. Her purse hit the porch. “OH MY GOD!”



So. How was it? What do you think Liz saw? No feedback= No story.

Ok. Here are some of my questions.

How old should the gang be? I have no idea, so your help will be appreciated.

I've been thinking of changing the title. If I do, what should it be?

I'll think of more later. Thanks for the help!

-Ann


posted on 19-Aug-2002 3:44:35 PM by starbright
Ok, people, I have a new part nearly finished. I'll post it tonight if I get enough feedback.

-Ann
posted on 19-Aug-2002 8:34:25 PM by starbright
Feedback people.

-Ann
posted on 20-Aug-2002 12:45:41 AM by starbright
Here it is. Part 5. I think this is my longest chapter. It's still monday night in my time zone. Hope you enjoy it. I didn't get a chance to proofread it, so ignore the mistakes.

Part 5

“What the hell is going on in here?” Liz yelled. In front of her was not a poker game with the guys. Instead, she saw her very naked boyfriend and some blond bimbo that looked very familiar getting it on on the living room floor. ’They could’ve had the decency to at least hold themselves at bay until they reached the bedroom. Or the couch even.’ This fueled Liz’ anger even more.

“I asked you a question!” Liz walked into the room and slammed the door behind her. Sean winced as one of the pictures on the wall crashed to the floor. Liz looked at him, fire in her eyes, waiting for his response.

Sean stood up and searched the room for his boxers. “Honey, it’s not what it looks like.” Sean found them and tugged them on.

“Not what it looks like?! What else could it be? I open the door expecting to see you playing with the guys. Instead, I open the door and see you fucking some blond bitch who doesn’t even have the decency to cover herself at the moment.”

“Liz, there’s no need to be crude.”

“No need to be crude! I just caught you cheating on me, Sean. I think I’ve earned the right to be crude!” Liz picked up a picture frame holding their photo and threw it at the wall. Seeing the pieces fall to the floor, she tuned to face Sean. “How long has this been going on? How long have I been naive?” Liz’ voice had calmed down somewhat. The reality of the situation was finally sinking in.

At long last, the blond on the floor spoke up. “A month, maybe two. You should’ve seen it coming. All those cancellations and rain checks never cashed in. It was me keeping him warm those nights.” The blonde then had the nerve to smile at Liz.

“Why you little bitch...” Liz started towards her, only to be cut off be Sean. Liz struggled against him. “Let me go, you son of a bitch. Let me at her.”

Sean managed to lift Liz off the floor and set her down on the couch. The blond had finally gotten up and was searching for her clothes.

“Why Sean?” Liz was now on the verge of tears. “Why did you do this to me?”

“I’m sorry, Liz. You gave me no other choice. I wasn’t getting it from you, so I had to get it from someone else. I have needs that need to be taken care of.”

The tears were gone and replaced with the fire. “You bastard. So, because you wouldn’t get laid by me, you find some hooker to please you! You are a piece of work.” Liz stood and started towards the door.

“Hey! She’s a college graduate, I’ll have you know.”

“Yeah, cause that makes it all better.” Liz interrupted.

“She’s smart. She graduated at one of the state schools a couple years ago.”

Liz looked at the now dressed blond that was facing her. Everything came together in Liz’ mind then. She snapped her fingers and pointed at the girl. “Now I remember you. You’re Pam Troy, my roommate freshman year. You’re still the same. You always were a conniving slut. Glad to know that some things remain constant.” Liz shook her head in disbelief. Out of all the people he could’ve cheated on her with, he picks Pam. ‘I feel like I should be on Jerry Springer.’ She looked at the couple in front of her again. ‘On second thought, it may be too tame.’

“I didn’t know that you knew each other.”

“Well, Sean, I guess it truly is a small world.” Liz opened the door and once again slammed it shut behind her.
****
Maria watched as her best friend stormed into the house. She threw her purse on the floor and started pacing back and forth, raking her hand thru her hair. “I take it that it didn’t go too well.”

Liz snorted. “That would be an understatement.”

Maria walked up to Liz and grabbed her by the shoulders. “Honey, what happened?”

Liz looked up into Maria’s eyes and she couldn’t fight it anymore. Her wall crumbled and she fell into Maria’s arms. Maria sat down on the couch and stroked Liz’ hair.

“He cheated on me, Maria. The bastard cheated on me.”

Maria was tempted to say that she wasn’t shocked, but she didn’t want to upset her friend even more than she was.

“Why Maria? How could he do this to me/”

“He’s scum, Liz. That’s all he is.” Maria held Liz as she started calming down. “I’m gonna go call Michael and cancel our date ok. I think this definitely calls for a girls night.” Maria stood up and Liz pulled her back down.

“No you’re not. You are not canceling on my behalf. I will not allow it. You’re going.”

Maria looked at Liz. “Are you sure?”

“Maria, I’ll be fine on my own.” A car horn could be heard from the driveway. “That’d be him. Don’t keep him waiting.”

Maria gave Liz a hug. “Just relax, ok honey. I’ll be back soon.” Maria waved and walked out.

Liz looked out the window and made sure that Maria was out of sight. She grabbed her keys and walked out the door.
****
Max stared up at the ceiling of his room. ‘Think about paint. Think about how the ceiling needs some paint.’ That wasn’t even working. He couldn’t get the doctor out of his head. Fed up with it all, he grabbed his keys and walked out towards his car.
****
Liz made it to the front of the line. The bouncer looked her up and down before opening up his mouth. “Need to see some ID, sweetheart.”

Liz stared at him as if he had grown a second head. When he continued to look at her, she pulled her ID out of her wallet. Tapping her foot, she handed it to the bouncer.

After several looks between the ID and herself, he finally handed it back to her. “Sorry ‘bout that miss.” Liz walked thru the door and smiled. Tonight was her night to forget her life.
****
Max stood in line as he waited for his turn to in front. He looked around himself and noticed the weird variety of people standing in line. There was an old couple who looked like they were lost. Some delinquent teenagers with their fake ID’s. A young couple looking for a place to make out. There was basically everybody. Finally, it was Max’s turn to step inside.
****
Liz sat at the bar as she swallowed her drink. She had lost count of how many she had had.

A guy came up to the bar to order a drink. He looked at Liz, smiled, and signaled the bartender. “I’ll have whatever’s on tap and get this young lady another drink.” The guy turned towards Liz. “Hi. I’m Joe Anderson and you are...?”

“Liz Parker.”

“Tell me, Liz. What’s a gorgeous lady like yourself doing sitting over here, all by herself/” Joe sat down and paid the bartender.

“My boyfriend cheated on me, the bastard,” Liz managed to slur out as she drank.

Joe took a sip of his beer. “How terrible. Why on earth would a guy want to cheat on you?”

“I don’t know. I go over there and I find him having sex with some girl in the living room! How crazy is that?” Liz slapped her hand down on the counter and laughed out loud.

“That’s absurd.” Joe looked over towards the dance floor. “Say. How ‘bout we dance?”

“Sure, why not?” Liz took his hand as he led her out onto the floor.
****
Max took a sip of his beer and looked around. His eyes bulged out of his head as it swung back towards the dance floor. ‘Great. Not only am I thing about her, I’m seeing her everywhere, too.’ He closed his eyes for a couple seconds and then opened them. ‘Oh my God she’s here!’
****
When Joe’s dancing got a little friendlier than she wanted, Liz tries to shove his hands off of her. “Ok, buddy, that’s enough.”

Joe’s hands remained where they were. “How about you and I get out of here.”

Liz looked at him, appalled. “I may be drunk, but I’m not that drunk.” When his hands still wouldn’t move, Liz took matters into her own hands and kneed him. “Oh, I’m sorry, did that hurt?” Liz smiled and stumbled her way out.

Max watched her leave and followed her out.

People stared as Liz swayed, stumbled and dragged herself to her car. Even more heads turned towards her as she started laughing insanely at herself. At last, she managed to get into her car and bolt out of the parking lot, with Max not to far behind her.
****
Michael kept his hand on the small of Maria’s back as he walked her to her door. “I had a great time tonight, Michael.”

Michael laughed and pulled her close. “”You just can’t wait to tell Liz all about it.”

Maria smiled. “You know me so well already. Thank you for the date.”

Michael leaned down and kissed her. After the shock wore off, Maria wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him back. After a couple minutes, Maria pulled away to catch her breath.

“I’ll talk to you tomorrow.” Michael pecked her on the cheek and left.
****
“Where the hell is she going?”

They had driven all over the city, going nowhere. Liz had been swerving all over the road, having several problems with the other cars. Max watched in horror as Liz’ car connected with one of the street lamps head on.

As fast as he could, Max got out of his Jeep and ran towards Liz. She was unconscious, her head having hit the side window. In her drunken haze, she had managed to still get her seatbelt on. A seatbelt that now was jammed.

Max pulled out his phone and dialed 9-1-1. He rested the phone against his shoulder as he tried to get Liz out. After the thousandth ring, the operator finally picked up.

“Fire, ambulance, or police.”

Max raked his hand thru his hair. “Um, I don’t know. Ambulance.”

“Ok, sir, tell me where you are.”

Max looked around for some street signs, or any signs that would tell him what he needed to know. “I have no idea. There’s no signs around us, or anything else. I’m pretty sure that we’re still in Roswell.”

“Ok, sir, I need to know what happened.”

“I went to this club and saw a friend there. She was extremely drunk and left before I could stop her. I followed her and she ended up hitting a street lamp head on. She’s unconscious right now and the seatbelt has her trapped. And, oh shit...” Max’s voice trailed off.

“Sir, what’s wrong?”

“The car. The car’s leaking gas and Liz is trapped inside.”

“Sir, you have to calm down. Panicking will not help your friend. You need to get her out of there and away as fast as you can, before it explodes. Can you do that?”

“Yeah, I can.” Max reached in and started tugging on the seatbelt. The smell of gas was getting stronger. Max reached into his pocket and pulled out his pocket knife. After hacking away, he managed to free Liz of the belt.

“I got the seatbelt. I’m getting her out.” Sirens could be heard coming in the distance.

“Ok. Get as far away as possible, but still stay in the area. Stay on the line, help should be almost there.”

Max lifted Liz up and ran. A couple seconds after he lifted her out, her car exploded, setting his off as well.




No feedback= No story. So, if you like it, tell me. If you don't, still tell me.

-Ann



[ edited 1 time(s), last at 20-Aug-2002 12:46:53 AM ]
posted on 20-Aug-2002 10:26:14 PM by starbright
Where are my other groupies (LOL)? Is anybody out there? Do you guys not like this?*sad* Please tell me.

-Ann
posted on 22-Aug-2002 11:30:18 PM by starbright
I'm bumping this so everybody can see the fantastic banner that Bordersinsanity made for me.

-Ann
posted on 6-Oct-2002 2:43:09 PM by starbright
Sorry guys that I've been MIA. I've been extremely busy lately with school starting up again and other stuff. Thursday night I sprained my ankle really bad and have been on crutches ever since. This is the first time I've been on my computer since then. It's kind of an adjustment, considering I've never broken or sprained anything in my life before.

I'll get the next part out as soon as I can. And a big welcome to my new readers.

-Ann
posted on 24-Nov-2002 10:02:26 PM by starbright
For those of you who think I've given up, I haven't. I've been extremely busy with school and my extracurriculars. I had the next chapter finished, but my computer crashed. Me being the idiot that I am, I didn't have it on a back-up. So I have to re-do it. Also, I'm feeling a lack of inspiration. It seems that not many people are reading this. But, for those few who are, I'll have another part out as soon as I can.

-Ann