posted on 20-Jul-2002 10:03:48 PM by roswellianprincess16
Title: Mr. Adorable
Rating: R (or maybe PG-13, but I'm gonna stay on the safe side of this one).
Summary: Well, first it's AU. Basically, it's junior year, Liz was never shot, Max never had to save her, therefore no one knows about the aliens. This whole story is Alex's P.O.V. He's tired of being the great 'guy friend' and is looking to finally shed his 'adorable' image. What will happen along the way?! You'll just have to read and see.
DISCLAIMER: NOT MINE! I wish he was...this cute, sarcastic, extremely troubled ball of youth...but unfortunately life sucks.
Author's Note: This may or may not be CC coupling... it may be both CC and UC, but for now, I just don't know. Sorry! *happy* OK! Let's begin!
1-1-1
Mr. Adorable
6:45am*
The alarm clock is going to die. No one, I mean NO ONE wakes me up in the middle of a dream. NO! Unbelievable! I swear, it’s like it can sense my happiness and decides to piss me off. I throw the sheets off me and just lie still in my bed for a second. Maybe if I don’t move, maybe I’ll slip back into the dream. Or maybe this is the dream and I won’t wake up. Or maybe….

“Alex! Wake up!”

Great. Another day of being me. I shake my head and slowly get up to get in the shower. I have my towel in hand and am about to go into the bathroom when my phone rings.

“Hello?”

“ALEX! Hey, it’s Maria! Listen, I can’t talk long, I just wanted to know if I was still picking you up for school this morning?!” I can’t help rolling my eyes. I love Maria, I do. I just… well, it’s just too early to be so frickin’ hyper! Then it hits me. Of course she would be hyper. I’m supposed to help her get back at her ex-boyfriend today. Fantastic. I have to be Alex the savior and Alex the ‘pretend’ boyfriend. Isn’t that a little much to ask of a poor man?

“Yea, Maria fine. Pick me up in about half an hour.”

“But I thought we were gonna get there early to make sure he sees us!”

“Maria, do you want my help or not?” I take a deep breath. It’s still early Alex. You’re going to have a great day. Say it with me. You – are – going – to – have – a – great – day. Very good.

“Yes! I do, I do! Sorry Alex. I’m just nervous that’s all. I mean, what if he doesn’t even notice? Or worse, if he does, but doesn’t even care? I mean, am I such a horrible girlfriend?!” Oh no, not the hysterics. Please Maria don’t cry.

“NO! Of course you’re not! He’s the loser for leaving you remember? You were… you ARE too good for him. He needs easy booty. You’re more than that, so he left you.” I hear her stop for a second… did it work? Please tell me it worked.

“Oh Alex thank you! Thank you so much! You always know exactly what to say! I’ll be there in half an hour ok?” I can hear her huge smile even through the phone. I can’t help but smile too.

“You’re welcome Maria. Oh, and put on some of that berries body spray you have! I mean, if I’m gonna be around you all day, you might as well smell good.” I smile as I wait for her reaction.

“WHAT! I ALWAYS smell good Alex! You’re a dork! Go take a shower and be ready or I’ll leave your butt without a ride!”

“And I’ll leave your butt without a man or a plan.” I can hear her hesitate and it almost makes me choke since I know I’ve won.

“ARGH! You are sooo annoying! Fine… fine, I’ll put on the berry spray. Seriously Alex, you really are something.”

“Yea, I know. See you in a bit.” I hang up the phone and smile. Well, I guess it wouldn’t be such a bad day after all. It’s not like I don’t spend the majority of my time with Maria anyway. See, you may not understand why I would give up my pride just to do something stupid like help her out. But, Maria is my best friend. Maria and Liz to be exact. The two women I would give the world for. But now… well they’ve got some competition.

Isabel Evans. God must have thought it was some cruel joke to put her in my school. I mean I’ve only been trying to get her to acknowledge my existence for about three years. She’s like walking perfection. Of course, I say that around Liz and she says that I should go for it! That once Isabel gets to know the real me, she’ll be head over heels in love. I say it to Maria, and she says WHAT!? Are you insane!? Isabel Evans? She’s the biggest b**ch in the whole school! Why would you even want to get remotely close to her? Alex, no. That’s like so impossible.

I get myself out of the shower and find my clothes. My jeans, my plaid shirt, and my boots. Yes, this is Alex Whitman apparel. I look in the mirror and comb my wet hair. Ok, so combing is for sissies but I have to at least look like I tried or Maria will have my neck! (Do you understand the death grip that that girl has? I don’t think you do. And a mouth that just won’t shut up… it can get really ugly). Anyway, I find my cologne and spray some on. I might as well smell good too. Having me around all day can’t be all that much fun either. I glance at my alarm clock. 7:20am. Just on time. I pick up my book bag and hear the loud honking. Geez Maria, wake up the whole neighborhood. I run down the stairs and past the kitchen.

“Alex, what about breakfast?!”

“I’ll grab some on my way to school! Bye!” I rush out the front door, locking it behind me. I love my Dad, but really. He needs to stop and smell the coffee. I shake my head to gather my thoughts and I see Maria leaned against the passenger side of the car, her arms crossed across her chest. No! No, Alex don’t even think it! But I can’t help myself. I mean, it’s not just the clothes, but it’s the whole attitude. She’s screaming look at me without even opening her mouth. For Maria, that is quite an accomplishment. I don’t even think I noticed that I stopped dead in my tracks.

“So? What do you think? I thought I should wear something that will have Joey drooling enough to beg for me to take him back.”

“Maria, I don’t think that was necessary. I mean, you look good, don’t get me wrong. But maybe you should th- th- think about this for a s-s- second.” Smooth Alex, real smooth.

“Have you nervous Alex?” She giggled with excitement and ran back to her side of the car. “Perfect! That’s the exact reaction I want from him!” She gets in the car and I shake my head. God, this is going to be a long day. I keep walking towards the car and get in after her. We make our way to school and as she’s parking, I’m beginning to have second thoughts. I mean, come on! This is insane! Do I want to get my face punched in? Joey Fillmore would probably murder me, then have his friends cut me up into little pieces. Besides, he knows Kyle Valenti, and we all know he dated Liz and is all bitter cause she outgrew him. So Kyle would gladly punch my lights out too. And for what!?? So that I can dwell on the fact that I was in love with Maria freshman year when she got with Joey and decided on a whim to help her just so I could get the satisfaction of watching him suffer?! Alex… that was DUMB!

“Alex, you ok?” I snap back to reality and look over at Maria’s worried eyes. No… no don’t look at me like that! Come on Ria! This isn’t fair!

“Yea, I’m fine. Let’s go back over the plan here, I’m a little unsure of what’s going on.” Her smile widens into something that’s practically glowing. It’s hard to say no to that smile. ALEX! What!? Great, now I’m talking to the voices in my head! This really sucks! So do you!

“Ok, we’re gonna walk in there, and you’re gonna have your arm around me as if we were dating. When he walks by the locker, you’ll say something along the lines of ‘are we still on for tonight’? And I’ll handle the rest! Ok?” I nod my head, still unsure of what I heard. Everything sounds mushed. Maybe I’m just having symptoms of premature death. Or maybe I’m just really tired. Or worse, maybe I’m just having flashbacks of Maria and I having sleepovers. Yea, I think that last one is about right.

“Ok. That sounds fine. One more thing! Please remember… we have rules. No kissing, no random unplanned acts, and no doing this if Isabel is around.”

“Alex…”

“Maria, you promised!”

“Ugh! Fine. Whatever.” I look at her and smile. She looks so pretty when she’s angry. HELLO OUT THERE! Yea, you Whitman! STOP TORTURING YOURSELF! Think of Isabel. Great, now I’m smiling like an idiot.

“What may I ask is so funny?”

“Huh? Oh! Nothing. Just… uh, just thinking how much fun this is going to be to watch him grovel when he sees you. That’s all.” Her smile just got wider. I didn’t even think that was possible.

“Oh shut up Alex! Next thing you know I’m gonna say screw this and get with you for real.” She winks at me and now I’m thoroughly confused. Thanks Maria… just add to my pile of ridiculous worries. Add to my growing angst I like to call my life. I swear to God, if I start to feel what I felt freshman year I may just lose it.
We walk in, her arm linked through mine and thank God, Joey is nowhere to be seen. We walk over to the lockers and I spot the long dark hair. It’s in a ponytail! Ok, she is just asking for it! I reach my hand out and tug and then quickly look at Maria appalled.

“Geez, Ria! At least have the decency to pretend you didn’t do it!” Liz turns around and flashes me a smile.

“HELLO Alex! Hey Maria.”

“Oh, I see. All I get is a ‘hey’? What I’m not good enough for you Elizabeth?”

“Maria! Stop!” Liz rolls her eyes and laughs. God, she’s beautiful. Ok! Fine, so I have issues! Nothing’s to say I can’t think my friends are beautiful! It’s NOT my fault I hang out with a bunch of girls! It’s not!

“So… what are you two up to? I smell a plan.” Liz raises her eyebrows and I can’t help but smile. Dammit! This is so not good. I am really starting to have a hard time with this. Liz is cute and adorable. She is… I love her… like a sister. I know that for a fact! I love Liz like a sister! DO YOU HEAR ME! Good… glad we got that out of the way. And Maria… well, Maria and I are just friends. We are and always have been just friends. I love Maria…as a friend. STOP LYING YOU PRICK! Woah! My brain is now calling me names. That can’t be normal. Ok! Fine! So she makes my blood boil! So she makes me want to NOT be Alex Whitman! She makes me hate Joey! FINE! I GET IT! Now leave me alone!

“Alex and I are gonna get Joey to stick his head up his ass. He left me thinking I was gonna go back and beg, well he had something else coming.” Maria looks over and smiles at me. I just nod my head like I know what she’s talking about. But I don’t. I’m still trying to get the stupid voices to shut up.

“Alex… are you ok?” YES LIZ! I’m FINE! Can’t you tell!? I’m simply trying to figure out why I’m so pathetic! That’s all.

“Me? Yea! Of course! I’m fine.” Ok, now smile. Good boy. I could be an actor. Maybe not. I don’t think I could lie to people for a living. Did she buy it? YES! Not bad.

“Oh my God! Here he comes! Ok, ok. I’m fine, no problem! I can’t do this!” Oh man! Maria come on! Get yourself together! I can’t do this all by myself! I grab her shoulders and shake lightly.

“Ok, listen to me. We do what we planned. You’re an actress Maria. You’re naturally gifted. You look great. You can do this. Now, just breathe in and out. Ok? Look at me… no not over there! Look into my eyes Maria.” I grab her face and the look in her eyes practically breaks my heart. Damn you Joey. You are such a dead man.

“Ok… ok I can do this. I can do this.” She breathes in deep and then closes her eyes briefly. Good… now don’t freak out on me again. I lean my hand against the locker and lean in close to Maria. Liz smiles and watches with sparkling eyes. This isn’t like a Broadway production or anything Liz. I’m just doing a favor.

“So, we’re still on for tonight then? Right? Eight o’ clock?” I smile and look straight into her eyes. I can see Joey slowing down through my peripheral vision. Uh huh… look again punk. That’s right, who’s moving in on your girl? Not so hot now are you Joey?

“Yea. Eight o’clock. We’re still going to the movies right?”

“Actually… I had something a little more… intimate in mind. Maybe, a hike to Fire Lake to have a picnic under the stars. You’ve never gone stargazing have you Maria?” That’s when Joey comes to a complete stop. I can see hear the buzz where his friends are following him around. Oh no, here comes.

“Are you serious!? You’d do that for me?! Oh God Alex, I love you so much!” Maria wraps her arms around me and pulls me in for a tight hug. I smile and look over when I see Joey coming in our general direction. I pull away just as Joey stops in front of us.

“Maria.”

“Joey.” I try to stop my laughter. In that one word Maria practically bit his head off. Man, she’s good.

“There’s a party at my house tonight, after the game. You coming right?” Sure he asked, but his tone of voice sounds like he’s demanding it. God, Fillmore I hate your guts.

“Actually tonight I have plans.” She puts her hands on her hips and looks up at me and smiles. I smile back and look over at Joey. Yes, I should be enjoying this moment. But I’m not. Why, you may ask? Why are you not enjoying this moment of absolute power and glory? Because of all things, Joey – I have no brain or common sense and play with girls feelings because I don’t have any of my own- Fillmore is laughing at me.

“Plans? PLANS?! With who? Your girlfriend here? Come on Maria, who are you kidding? The whole school knows about Alex, Liz and you. You expect me to believe that over night you and Alex decided to get together? That would be the day! When band geek actually gets a girl!” He turns around laughing and all his friends join him. It’s taking all I have not to punch him and break his nose. Hold it… hold it. Let Maria handle her own dirty laundry. Don’t knock him dead. You want to go to college Alex. You want to stay out of jail.

“EXCUSE ME! Ok, that is it! Let me tell you something F**kmore! You know NOTHING about Alex! And obviously NOTHING about me! Alex is the only guy in this school who can get a girl in this school that YOU can’t. Why? Because he has actual FEELINGS. Because he actually cares about me! You are a PRICK! You’re so frickin’ self involved that you measure your dick everyday! So get OVER yourself and don’t tell me who the f**k to be with! GOT IT!” Ok, so my eyes are popping out of my head. I wasn’t exactly expecting that. Ok, no I wasn’t expecting that at ALL. Did she just completely defend me!? Did she just insult the man she wanted back? I am really, really confused now. Flattered, sure, but damn confused.

“Let’s get out of here Alex!” I quickly nod my head in agreement and grab the hand she’s reaching out. Liz is too busy giggling in her corner but I can tell she just had her fill of excitement for the whole day. I follow Maria out into the open air of the courtyard and she stops and turns to look at me.

“Alex… I am so sorry. I am just so, so sorry. I did not know he was going to do that! He is such an argh! I hate him ok? And I’m sorry I made you go through that! You are not what he said! You mean everything to me! Ok?” She looks up at me and her hands are shaking. Wow, did it really get her that pissed off?

“Maria, hey it’s no big deal. I told you I’d help you and I did. I helped you realize what I told you all along. He’s no good for you. So, if you want to thank me, just buy me lunch.” I smile and see her face begin to relax. She reaches out for my hands and brings them up to her face to kiss them.

“You… get a large pizza with the works.” She smiles and then turns around to see Liz heading towards us. Wait! Wait Liz! Give us five more minutes! Let her keep telling me how I’m her God! How I’m her King! How I’m her… well, you get the drift.

“Ok, that was just… wow. Maria, you should get an Oscar.” Liz smiles and Maria pushes her playfully.

“Oh, shut up! I was great though wasn’t I?” Maria and Liz start laughing and I’m just left there with lingering hands. Funny… one minute I’m the hero and the next I’m being voted on for best supporting actor. Well, that was quick. I turn around, watching to see how many people have already come in, when I see her. It’s like my breath is caught in my chest. Am I having a heart attack? Is that even possible? She looks like a goddess. Is that a halo? Oh, wait, that’s just the reflection of the sun on the glass. But wow, she still looks fantastic. She has on these high heel shoes with dark slacks and a red sweater. Her lips… oh man her lips are bright red. And her hair is so gold!!!! Ok, Alex just breathe. Just breathe and you’ll be fine!
I see her smile and I smile back. Is she smiling at me?! Am I dreaming? She looks to her side and then starts laughing. I follow her gaze to the guy standing next to her. Don’t roll your eyes Alex! Don’t! Ok, I can’t help it. Michael Guerin!? What could he possibly have to say that’s funny!!? What could he possibly have to say at all? I didn’t even know that guy spoke English. I look to her left and see her brother. It’s funny… Max is nothing like Isabel. He’s so quiet and shy and… well not popular. He seems to be trying not to smile. Whatever conversation they’re having seems to be quite funny. I look at Isabel again and see that she’s getting closer. To me? Is she walking over here!?? Oh no! I turn around quickly hoping she didn’t catch me staring. That would be real mature Alex. Did you clean your drool yet?! Geez… I turn back to Maria and Liz who are completely involved in their conversation. Is she coming to talk to me? Why are they all coming over here? How’s my breath? Oh! I smell good today! Nice!

I’m just about to ask for gum when I hear the clicking of heels stop right behind me. I don’t even have to turn around to know she’s there. I can smell her. Her perfume, her hair, the general scent that makes up Isabel Evans. I turn around slowly when I see Maria and Liz stop talking.

“Not bad DeLuca. I heard you put on quite a show this morning. I’m only sorry I missed you setting Joey Fillmore straight. That guy has needed a good insult since he started high school.” I take a chance and look up into her eyes. My God, she has the most incredible eyes.

“Hello Liz, hi Alex.” She looks over at us and smiles. Oh my God! Oh my dear and holy God! She just smiled at me! She smiled FOR me! She said hi! This isn’t happening! This is like the single best day of my life!

“H- h- hi Isabel.” I put on my crooked grin and suddenly meet her eyes. She’s smiling at me. I must still be dreaming.

“Thank you Isabel. It’s good to know someone noticed he was a jerk besides me.” Maria smiled and looked over at Michael. She raised her eyebrows in suspicion as he smiled.

“I’d hate to see you really pissed.” His smile widened and Maria’s faded. Uh oh, he’s asking for it.

“Well, we have to go. See you guys around.” Isabel practically spins on her heels and turns to leave, grabbing Michael along with her.

“Hey Liz… I’ll uh, I’ll see you in Chemistry?”

“Yea sure Max.” I turn to see Liz smile and then turn back to see Max nod and then turn to follow Isabel. What the hell was that!? Max Evans checking out Liz Parker? I mean, yea, granted he’s been in love with her since like the fifth grade, but he actually speaks to her? I didn’t even know that!

“I get the feeling we broke some serious barriers today.” I look over at Maria and raise my eyebrows at her to emphasize my point.

“Yea… like Isabel Evans actually spoke to us, the lower breathing members of the human race. And, oh, is that right? Did she say hello to you?! Oh my goodness, let’s all just jump for joy.” Well, thanks a lot Maria. You sure know how to ruin someone’s good mood.

“Maria stop it! Just because you’re mad at Michael doesn’t give you the right to take it out on Alex!” That’s right Liz! Tell her!

“Michael!? Who said anything about Michael?! I didn’t even… you know what? I don’t have to explain myself to you. I am going to class.” She picks up her bookbag and stomps away. Wait, Ria… am I still getting my pizza? Damn, I forgot to eat breakfast.

“Don’t listen to her Alex. She’s got the biggest crush on him and just can’t admit it. She’s too busy trying to hate him to realize it’s painfully obvious.” Liz smiles and wraps her hand around mine.

“Michael? She LIKES Michael? As in Michael Guerin? Why the hell would she like him? Another non emotional, too stupid to talk, brooding male? Seriously Liz, does she not get the point?” Ok, so I’m being a little verbal about my complete disagreement to this. I care about Maria. Why can’t she just get it together!? She keeps going for guys with no common sense and she’s gonna end up hurt!

“I don’t know Alex. I just don’t know.” Liz sighs loudly and I can understand exactly how she feels.

“So…what was up with you and Max?” I can see her eyes quickly turn a shade of red and she looks down.

“Max? What do you mean? Nothing’s up with me and Max.”

“Do you like him?”

“ALEX?”

“Well, do you? I mean… it’s not like you haven’t told me things like this before.”

“I know but… well yea, I guess I kinda think he’s cute. So what?” She pushes her weight on mine and knocks
me off guard a bit.

“Nothing! I’m not judging your taste in men Liz! I just wanted to know!” I smile and wrap my hand tighter around Liz’s.

“Well, what about you!? You might finally be breaking the ice Mr. Whitman! Next thing you know, you’ll be inviting us to you and Isabel’s wedding!”

“Liz… she just said hi.”

“So?” She looks up at me and smiles, and for a minute, I feel like I could do anything. Liz has that effect on me. She believes in me and sometimes it can be really amazing. Other times, it makes me really nervous that I might screw up and disappoint her.

“Whatever Liz. You’re so crazy.” I let go of her hand just as we reach her homeroom.

“I’ll see you at lunch ok? Maybe Maria will talk to me by then.” Liz smiles and hugs me tight. It’s strange how I recognize her embrace. How it’s so familiar for me to be with these two women who have become so much a part of my life. Ok Alex, now you’re getting all mushy and emotional. She turns to head back into class and I have to stop her. I have to ask her just one last question.

“Liz?” She turns around quickly, her long hair flipping from side to side as she does.

“Yea.”

“Do you really think I have a chance with her?”

“Alex… you can do whatever you set your mind to. I mean, you’re smart, you’re talented, you’re a great listener, and heck you’re just adorable.” She smiles and heads back into class, leaving me to feel like a five year old. Geez… Liz thinks I’m adorable. That’s right. I’m Alex Whitman, Mr. Adorable. Best friend to two very different females. One who is a quiet, sensitive dreamer. The other who is a wild and crazy flower child. And I’m completely obsessed with the most beautiful and popular girl in the school. Could my life be any more complicated?





[ edited 26time(s), last at 28-Nov-2002 11:01:57 PM ]
posted on 21-Jul-2002 2:45:44 AM by roswellianprincess16
Part 2:

“Now, when Nick spoke to Gatsby, what did he mean by he was better than the bunch of them? Was Gatsby different than them? What makes Gatsby, as a main character, so much more intriguing than say… Tom or Daisy?” I let the sound of Mr. Hamilton’s voice drift. The guy’s nice, but English isn’t exactly my strong suit. Not that I don’t speak it or anything, I’m just not digging it. Oh my God, did I just say digging it! I’m still suffering from shock. You know, I remember Liz reading to me once about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I think I may have that. I mean, I’m just getting over a traumatic experience and I’m stressing about it! So that counts right?!

“Mr. Whitman?” I look up, suddenly shaken out of my reverie. Figures, the day that I’m not paying attention he’d call on me. I open my mouth to speak and I can feel my ears getting red.

“Ummm… well, see Gatsby is…” The sound of the door opening distracts me and I look over to the door along with the rest of the class.

“Hello Mr. Hamilton. I wanted to know if you’d be interested in giving some money to the yearbook. We decided to start early and since we want ours to be the best in the history of West Roswell High, then we thought we better put up some cash. And I know how much you love us Mr. Hamilton.” Isabel’s melodic voice practically gave me a heart attack. Is this coincidence??? No! Nothing is coincidence! What is she doing here!? Oh my goodness…she saved my butt! I go flipping quickly through the pages of the book and find the answer I’m looking for in my Cliff Notes. I look up at her and suddenly I see her eyes looking straight into mine, a smile on her face. Oh my God. Twice in one day. This is too much. Something is going on. It’s a joke! It’s some cruel joke that’s being played on geeky Alex! Well, guess what? IT’S NOT FUNNY!

“Well…thank you for your cooperation Mr. Hamilton. Oh, the Great Gatsby. Good book.” She smiles again and then turns to leave the class. Wait! Wait take me with you! The door closes quietly behind her and Mr. Hamilton smiles. Hey… you are a little too old for her buddy. Almost like he’s reading my mind, he looks back at me.

“Ok, where were we? Oh yes… Mr. Whitman. Tell me about Gatsby.”

“Well… ummm… Gatsby was much more important than the rest because he was the only one with actual feelings. Gatsby had a soul, unlike the other characters. Jordan, Tom, Daisy, they were all just empty headed and greedy. Nick noticed that although Gatsby was a guy of the same class, he was different. He was much more than what he appeared to be.” I breathe in and hold my breath. Please tell me that was right.

“Nicely said Mr. Whitman. So now that we have that settled what does the ending…?” It was right! I was right! Ok, I don’t know why I sound so surprised, I mean I did do the reading last night. I’m just surprised that I could even put coherent sentences together. I mean… today has been such a mess! And it’s only second period! Oh my God…I have class with her! I have class with Isabel in two periods! What will I do? What will I say? Should I say hello? Maybe not…I don’t want to push my luck. I hear the bell ring and I quickly gather up my bag. I start walking into the hallway when I feel an arm pull at me. I turn and I’m faced with dark blue eyes.

“I’m sorry ok?! It was wrong of me to be such an idiot. I was angry and in a bad mood and still shaken up from the bit this morning but it gave me no right to take it out on you. So… forgive me?” Even if I wanted to freak her out by lying and saying no… we could never be friends again, that’d be impossible. I could never say no to that smile.

“Of course… don’t I always?” I smile and she jumps up and hugs me.
“Oh my God, you have no idea how worried I was that you were mad! Liz told me that I’d hurt your feelings and that I had no right to do that and she was right! You know, cause who am I to stomp on your dreams? You’ve never done it to me! And it was just completely uncalled for…”

“MARIA! It’s ok. Don’t worry about it.” I smile and tug at her hair. “Besides, you owe me pizza… do you really think I wouldn’t forgive you when I want pizza?” She lowers her head laughing and then looks up at me with an expression I don’t quite recognize.

“Alex… why do you always forgive me?” I could feel my smile fading. Why is she asking me that!? What the heck am I supposed to say?! Well, not only am I your best friend, but I’ve been in love with you since as long as I can remember… no, that won’t work! So what now?

“Because… you’re my friend. That’s what friends do. They put up with each other. They love each other. They know that sometimes things are said that aren’t really true. And besides, I have the Maria Filter built in to my system. I know that what you really meant to say was, ‘Alex I’m so jealous of Isabel because I’m madly in love with you and want you to take me away from this horrible place!’ Right?” I smile and she begins to laugh. I love making her laugh. It’s like her energy radiates from her and onto me. It’s quite a sensory experience. Oh Alex, shut up. There go those voices again.

“You are so adorable!” I look down at her and consider yelling at her. Did she just call me ADORABLE!?? This is like the second time today! That is it! I’m tired of that word! What is so adorable about me? May I ask! I mean, really!

“Thank you.” Loser. Yea, you Whitman. Can’t even tell her not to call you that. Why not? Cause she’s Maria and anything Maria says goes. Boy, am I a pushover.

“Maria? Can I ask you a quick question?” I see her look up at me curiously and I have to laugh. That’s the same look she gave me in 5th grade when I told her that boys peed standing up.

“Do you like Michael?” I see her eyes cloud over with something that can only be described as the wrath of Hurricane DeLuca. Uh oh, I’m screwed.

“Why would you even ask me that!? Alex! Do you know how much that hurts my feelings?!”

“I’m sorry! I’m sorry! It’s just…well I was just curious I mean, I wasn’t sure if…well you know. I don’t know! I DON’T KNOW OK?!” I breathe out deeply in defeat. I shouldn’t have even gone there.

“Look Maria… I’m the only guy in you and Liz’s life and when another guy comes stepping in my territory I just get a little possessive. You know? I mean, I worry about you guys. And when you went out with Joey I told you he’d be a jerk and hurt you but you wouldn’t listen. When Liz started dating Kyle I told her it would be the biggest mistake she’ll ever make. She didn’t listen either. So now, we’re back in square one.” I see her gaze soften and I relax a bit. Well, at least she won’t bite my head off.

“And I’m telling you to stay away from Isabel Evans because I know that she only means trouble. She’ll eat you up and spit you out Alex. You deserve more than that.” She reaches out and puts her arms around my neck. What?! She’s gonna try and tell ME what to do when she wouldn’t even listen to me when I told HER. Uh uh, no way.

“Did you ever listen Maria?”

“No but…”

“Ok. Then let me make my mistake. It’ll be the only one, I’m sure. If ever.” She removes her hands slowly and I can tell she’s not very happy.

“Fine, but when you get hurt Alex…whatever.” I hear the late bell ring and curse under my breath. Great, now I gotta get in trouble for getting yelled at.

“I’ll see you at lunch ok Maria?” She has the most pissed off look on her face and is pouting. Oh my goodness, why is she being this way?!

“Whatever.”

“Hey! You’re still my number one girl, ok?” Ok, so I stole the line from Titanic. Hell, if it worked for Leo, why can’t it work for me? I see a smile creep up on her lips. YES!!! YES WHITMAN SCORED!! Ahem…sorry about that. Got a little excited. It’s not everyday I win a DeLuca victory.

“Yea, yea, get to class.” She smiles and hits my shoulder as I run off to finally get to class. Music appreciation. Should be my favorite class. In fact, it’s my second favorite class. But…there’s one before it. Women’s Studies. NO! I’m not crazy! And NO… I AM DEFINITELY NOT GAY! That’s the class where I sit directly behind Isabel Evans. I don’t know how it happened… all I remember is the first day of school, I walked in dreading the stupid class. I mean, who cares about studying women? Don’t we do enough of that in history? I’m not sexist or anything! Don’t get me wrong! I LOVE women…if that wasn’t already obvious. And then she comes in… looking even more beautiful than last year and looks around the room. She knew at least three other people in the class. But she sat in front of me. ‘Till this day, I still don’t understand why. But hey, I’m not complaining.

I pull out my spare guitar and begin to strum some chords. The feel of the strings and the sound of the familiar chords make me relax. I can feel my brain beginning to turn to mush as my emotions take over. That’s the magic of the guitar. It’s like, I don’t play it… it plays me. And I know what you’re thinking. Alex gets played by everyone! Screw you! With the guitar it’s different. My guitar is my baby… my one true love. She never lets me down. And sure it’s weird that I talk to her and that I sometimes sleep with her on my bed. But hey… it doesn’t matter because I am PROUD to be a guitar player. It is the one thing that makes me different from everyone else. I write down a couple of the random notes I’m playing and smile. This would be good for Maria. I know she likes to do the whole lyrics thing. I’m not good at that. I’m glad she does it. Besides, my band hasn’t had a gig in like… well months. So what difference does it make if I give her a song. Who would know? [Vision of band mates finding out and mutilating me!] Well… maybe not. We’ll just have to see.

I don’t think I caught track of the time…that always happens when I play. I get so lost in the moment that I don’t even know what’s going on. I hear the bell ring and suddenly jump up. Oh man! That’s it!? I pick up my book bag and start the habitual tread to class and suddenly I stop. This isn’t just class. This is fourth period! This is it! The class I’ve been waiting for ALL morning! The class I come to school for! Women’s Studies!!!!!!!! I am about to turn the hallway when I feel another tug on my arm. Great, not again.

“Alex! Hey… I brought you something.” I look into Liz’s sweet face and smile. Thank God. Don’t misunderstand… I love Maria. But sometimes she can be hard to handle. If you ever tell her I said that I will be forced to hunt you down like a dog and tear you apart piece by piece. Understand? GOOD! Well, where was I? Oh yea, talking to Liz. I look down at her hands and she’s giving me a flower. It’s not just any flower either, not like a flower picked out from out front or something from Mr. DeLaney’s grocery store. This is a dead up, straight up, from a shop flower. (Dead up, straight up? Ok, I need to lay off the crack.)

“What the hell is that?!” Great way to show gratitude Whitman. That’s why guys should NEVER be the ones to get flowers.

“They’re sterling roses.”

“Purple roses?! I didn’t know there were purple roses! Who knew?!” I take it from Liz’s hand and look down still confused.

“Umm… Liz? Why are you giving me flowers?” I can see her try to contain her laughter and then break out. I don’t see what’s so funny. I feel very strange right now.

“It’s not for you silly… it’s for Isabel. Sterling roses are her favorite.” I look at her, my eyes wide and my mouth half open to say something. But, you know what? I don’t even know what to say!

“For Isabel? How did you know these were her favorites?” I look at Liz, my eyes full of curiosity. Then a flash of Maria’s face comes into my mind and I try not to laugh. Again, that expression of confusion and curiosity from the 5th grade haunt me.

“Well… ummm… uh… Max and I have Chemistry together, umm… second period and we were talking. And it kinda came out that you might kinda like his sister and he kinda said that was great cause he likes you and then he kinda suggested flowers in purple cause she likes them so third period we went and got one for you to give to her!” I can see Liz’s ears begin to redden and I can tell she’s beginning to heat up. Yes, she knows me and she knows she’s about to get an earful.

“ARE YOU INSANE! You told her brother I liked her! What do you WANT to see me alone and pathetic the rest of my life??? Who are you kidding Liz!!! Even with frickin’ bright orange flowers, she’d never give me the time of day! Ok!? It’s that simple!” I can’t believe she told him! Liz, of all people! Maria, I can see… but LIZ! Since when is she Lizzie- big mouth- Parker?! That’s like not even in her personality!

“I’m sorry… it’s just we wanted to help and I thought maybe if you took the first step…”

“WE?! Oh… oh I see. This isn’t about me at all is it Liz?”

“What are you talking about?” I see Liz begin to tuck her hair behind her ears and know I’ve hit the nail right on the head. She only does that when she’s really nervous. Or getting upset.

“This is about Max. You’re USING me to get to Max. That’s not very nice Liz.”

“Whatever Alex! I’m trying to help YOU. Ok?! Now I skipped class in order to get you a flower to help YOU get with the girl you’ve been wanting for like three years. The LEAST you could do is thank me.” Ok… so I’ve hit the spot. So why do I feel like crap? Damn, Liz ! Those eyes!

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry ok? It’s just that… I mean a guy could think he’s being used so that his best friend could skip class and ride around in a sexier guy’s Jeep!” I smile and look down to meet Liz’s lowered eyes. She smiles and looks back up at me. Oh, thank God. The last thing I need is for Liz to be mad. Liz is like my back bone. Without her, I’d like die.

“It’s ok. Just… just go and give her the flower. And write her a small note, or a poem or lyrics or something. Don’t screw this up Alex. This is your chance.” She smiles and gives me a big hug.

“I’ll try not to. But we all know how bad I am at that.” I smile again and watch her make her way down the hallway. She’s such a little person. It’s so cute. No, it really is though. I hold on to the flower and smile. Oh well, here goes nothing. I start to walk over to my class when I spot Maria.

“RIA! Hey! I need your help.” I grab Maria with my spare hand and drag her into my Women’s Studies class.

“Hello! I have class Alex.”

“Study hall is not technically a class.”

“So… what’s your point?”

“I need your help!”

“With what?!” I sit her down and put the flower on the desk. That’s when she finally notices it.

“Woah! Woah, do you know what those are?!”

“Purple roses?”

“STERLING ROSES! Those are very rare… and VERY expensive! Who the hell gave those to you?” What!? Like it’s impossible for me to get flowers!???

“Actually… I’m giving them to someone. And I need you to help me write some lyrics real quick to give to her too.” Maria’s eyebrow goes up and I can feel my pulse quicken. Do I mentally prepare myself for arguments with her?

“Who?” It’s one word. I know that. My brain knows that. But the way she just said it sounds like a novel. It was so dragged out and sarcastic it sounded like she was cutting me down on some nighttime talk show.

“Umm… Isabel.”

“You’re giving Isabel – I’m too perfect for everyone, have to be ice princess, can’t stand this school cause I’m so beautiful- Evans $200 flowers!!!!!?????”

“Wow, they’re $200? I didn’t know that!”

“ALEX! Look at what you’re doing!”

“MARIA! I WANT to do this! Now, you can choose to help me or not! But regardless I’m gonna do it.” If I didn’t know any better I’d think that was jealousy in her eyes. But no, I know Maria, why would she be jealous?

“Ok… lyrics. How about: You freeze even the tropics, You turn each breeze to ice, I’m giving you these flowers, cause I think you’re real nice!”

“Dammit Maria! Why are you being such a b**ch!??”

“WHAT!?”

“I’m sorry… I’m sorry that’s not what I meant!”

“Yes you did! You called me a b**ch!?? How could you say that to me?!”

“Look, I need your help! All I ask is that you help me the way I help you WHENEVER you need me NO MATTER the cost. So please… please help me.” Ok, so I’m begging. I need Maria to understand I’m serious. But I can’t seem to get her to stop hating me.

“Fine! You want lyrics?! Take the f**king lyrics!” She throws a paper into my hands and I look down not sure what to make of it. Oh now, Maria just cursed at me. That can’t be good. I’m really going to have to fix this one up later. Man… why does this kinda stuff happen to me? I open the paper and see the familiar scribbles that are Maria DeLuca’s thoughts.

Wishing I could be anyone but me.
I see you everyday and still it’s not enough for me.
I need to feel your gentle touch, but not with my own hand.
I need to love you from afar because of who I am.
I watch you everyday and silently I weep.
I know I cannot have you, but only in my sleep.
It isn’t fair, it isn’t right. We have been given this fate.
But maybe one day, we can change things, if it’s not too late.

This is not normal. These words are too familiar. They are too perfect for what I have to do. It’s like she wrote them with the complete intention of giving them to me! But she didn’t know that I was going to give Isabel flowers. So who the heck is this for?! By now she’s practically down the hallway.

“MARIA WAIT!” I run after her, leaving the note and the flowers on the desk. “MARIA!” I run down the hallway and grab her arm as I turn her to me. Oh my God… my heart has just stopped beating.

“Maria…Maria why are you crying?”

“Leave me alone!”

“Maria… just talk to me! Just… just tell me what I did wrong! Please.”

“I can’t talk to you about this Alex, ok? I just can’t.”

“Who were those lyrics for? Maria, who were they for?”

“I CAN’T TELL YOU! SO JUST STOP ASKING!” I see a whole new set of tears forming and I’m feeling even more like sh*t. Great job Alex. Seriously, you just definitely get the a**hole award for today.

“Maria… please. I hate to see you cry. Please, just don’t cry.” I put my hands on her cheeks and wipe away her tears. God, I can’t believe I did that! What the hell is wrong with me!?

“I’m sorry. I… I have to go to class.”

“NO! No, you are not leaving until you and I have a talk. Come on.” I march my way back down to class, holding on tight to Maria’s wrist. I am gonna get to the bottom of this dammit. I am going to find out what the hell is going on! We reach the classroom just as the bell rings.

“Mrs. Murphy, do you mind if I have a small chat with Maria for a second? I really need to get something settled.”

“You have five minutes Alex.”

“Ok, thank you.” I step out quickly and pull Maria into the corner of the hallway, where the water fountains and bathrooms are.

“Now… I want you to tell me what the hell is going on Maria. I hate to see you this upset and I know that I couldn’t have possibly pissed you off so much just because of Isabel. What did I do Maria?” She looks down and I can feel my hear beating fast. Please don’t cry again. PLEASE.

“Alex… there are things that I just can’t…”

“Bullsh*t! Come on Ria! Since when do we keep secrets from each other!??? Huh? Since when is it too difficult to tell me what the problem is?” Ok, I know I shouldn’t be getting all riled up but this is really getting to me. How could she do this to me? Keep a secret and then cry!??? I hate to see her cry! She KNOWS THAT! I hate the fact that she’s lying to me!

“Since we GREW UP Alex! God… look around you. Look at US. We are not little 5th graders anymore ok? We cannot have sleepovers or tree climbing races! We are going to graduate next year Alex! Things are DIFFERENT now! I’m not that little girl anymore.” That’s when the tears come. Damn. You just had to cry. Oh God… God please keep my heart at a normal pace, because turning to liquid is not going to help her any.

“Things are changing Alex. Places, people, feelings are changing. And you act like you haven’t even noticed! All you worry about is little Isabel. Oh Isabel this, oh Isabel that. She doesn’t even SEE YOU! You’re invisible to her Alex! Don’t you get it!?? She doesn’t see YOU! Not like I do!” At this point I’m stepping back and leaning against the wall. Did she just say what I think she said? No… of course not. This is Maria. This is wishful thinking. Or maybe not so much. What is going on?!!!

“Maria…I … I don’t know…” I don’t think I’m thinking straight. I don’t even think that makes sense. All I know is that the next thing I know, Maria is grabbing my face and kissing my lips so hard, that I think I may pass out. There’s so much pain in that kiss. God, did I cause her that?! I can taste the salt of her tears and I start to feel my own tug at my throat. NO! I will NOT cry! This is NOT my fault dammit! NO! She pulls away and then looks at me one last time before walking away. I know she said something else. Something that sounded like a mumbled version of sorry. But I can’t hear it. All I hear is the pounding in my chest. Does she have any idea how long I dreamt that I’d be able to do that? Does she know how that was NOT how I expected it!???

I make my way over to my classroom, my eyes probably a little bugged out. I don’t know what to do. What am I supposed to say? Maria??? I just… I never knew. She’s right. I’ve been too busy to even notice how we’ve changed. Does that make me a horrible friend? Geez!!!! CLEAR THE COBWEBS!!!! I can’t think straight. I walk into the room and just go straight to my seat. I plop myself down and put my face in my hands. I need to think. I need to get myself together I need to… I can feel a paper on my desk. I look down and fell my stomach twist. Suddenly, I’m nauseous. This isn’t happening. I look down at the perfect cursive writing.

“Meet me after class. I have to talk to you! J Thank you! ~Isabel”

Sh*t… sh*t, sh*t, sh*t!!!!! No ! Not now ! Come on Is… give me a break! Not now! I look down and then fold the paper to put into my pocket. I did it… I gave Isabel Evans flowers and she’s going to speak to me. I get the woman that I’ve been craving for almost three years. So why is it that the only person I can think about is Maria? The bell rings and I close my eyes. Oh dear God, if you think that I have done ANYTHING during my pathetic existence, save me from this one. Please. I walk out into the hallway when I hear a voice calling out for me.

“Alex! Alex wait!” I can hear the clicking of Isabel’s shoes and I stop. I have to stop. I made it this far, don’t let this all be for nothing.

“Thank you. I don’t even know what to say. I mean… that was probably the nicest thing anyone’s ever done for me.” I would have been ok, if she had not smiled. But she did. And now, now I know it was all for me.

“You don’t have to thank me… really. It’s the least I could do.”

“For what? I’ve never done anything for you.”

“You’ve been here. Everyday for three years you’ve been here. That’s been more than enough for me.” She looks down shyly and my brain snaps. Maria! That’s what Maria does when she’s embarrassed! I have to go get Maria!

“Alex… I…there are things about me you don’t know.”

“Yea… and there are things about ME you don’t know.” Now I’m beginning to feel awkward. Like she’s turning into someone else, rather than the Isabel who just spoke to me.

“Alex, I like you. I do… but I… I can’t afford to rush into things.”

“Rush into things? Umm… ok. Well, let’s see. I’ve waited three years…what’s one more?” Oh sh*t! Did I say that out loud ?!! Good job Alex! You are a real dick head.

“That’s not what I meant.”

“Look, Isabel. I’ve liked you for a long time. And today, today something happened that has me real confused. Normally, I’d be coming up with some lame excuse for you to go out with me. I like you. Now you know. Now the ball’s in your court. If you don’t feel ready fine. But, there’s something I have to do.” I begin to run off when I feel her twist me around. I don’t think I had a chance to react. All I know is I could feel her warm lips on mine and my common sense was expiring fast. My goodness, her lips are like poison! They’re seductive in ways that I couldn’t even imagine. She pulls away and I’m left standing completely confused.

“I just need time. Give me time.” Her eyes are practically pleading into mine. What the hell is wrong with people today!?????

“Time?”

“Time.” I don’t even think I responded. She just picks up her book bag and walk away. Now I’m left with a stupid, STUPID decision. Maria… or Isabel. How am I supposed to decide that!??? I turn around and I feel a hand on my arm.

“Alex…!” OH NO!

“Oh Liz!” My heart is finally relaxing. Something is wrong with people today. Something is seriously wrong.

“So tell me what happened?”

“You’re not going to kiss me are you?”

“Umm… not particularly.”

“Ok… as long as you don’t kiss me. Because I’m confused enough without another chic trying to kiss me.”

“ANOTHER chic?”

“Oh God…I’ve got a headache.”

“Wait, wait. Who kissed you? NO! Did you and Isabel kiss?!”

“You can say that.” I’m rubbing at my temples and it’s only making it worse. WOMEN! Geez…

“So who else kissed you?”

“You won’t believe me if I told you.”

“Try me…”

“Maria.” I could see her eyes get wide and she put her hand to her mouth. Yea, well multiply that reaction times 100 and that’s how I feel.

“She told you…” It was meant to be a whisper, but I hear it. Loud and clear.

“What?”

“Nothing.”

“YOU KNEW!”

“Umm… no. Yes. Oh God…!”

“How did you know and not tell me!??? How could she tell YOU and not ME!”

“Well Alex it was ABOUT you! Of course she wouldn’t tell you!”

“That’s NO EXCUSE!”

“YES IT IS! That would have been like you going to Isabel and telling her you like her the way you would ask her for homework! It’s not JUST something you do!” I need a cigarette. And I DON’T even smoke! Dammit! My hands are shaking. I’m pissed off now. I’m pissed off and I hate being mad. I always tell myself nothing could be that serious to be this mad. Oh, but I’m mad. How the hell could she not tell me? How could she tell Liz!??? How could she keep this from me!?? And let me love her ALL THOSE YEARS thinking she didn’t give a damn! GOD! I can’t believe this sh*t! Ok… ok Alex, you’re fine. You are fine. This is not a problem. So you’ve got a decision to make. Life is full of decisions. Just make it. Don’t even think about it, just do it. Like the Nike commercial. Just do it! Who am I kidding!???? This is not something I just toss a coin over!?? Oh God… I need a drink. I need something.

“Alex… Alex are you ok?” I look over at Liz, suddenly remembering she was there. Oh wow, I forgot about her.

“No… not I’m not ok. I can’t do this Liz. I can’t chose between the girl who I’ve wanted and can now have and the one who I’ve always loved but never loved me back. I can’t. I can’t do this.” I pick up my bag and walk out. I can’t stand to stay in school for the rest of the afternoon.




posted on 22-Jul-2002 12:01:17 AM by roswellianprincess16
Part 3:

“Pick up the phone Maria. Come on, pick it up. You know you want to. Maria please! Look, you can’t keep avoiding me. We have to talk about this! Dammit Ria, please! Don’t make me beg more than I already am. I know you’re there. Fine, fine you don’t want to pick up then I’ll just tell you what I have to say. I need you Maria. I can’t bear the thought that I made you angry or sad. I just… I need you to be ok or something because if you’re not, I won’t be able to forgive myself. I love you Ria… you know? And this sh*t that’s happening between us, it’s not doing us any good. So pick up the phone and talk to me. Please. Mar…” NO! STUPID ANSWERING MACHINE!!! What is wrong with technology today!??? We can send a man to the moon but we can’t make long lasting answering machine messages?? What’s up with that? That’s it! That is going to be my claim to fame. Long lasting answering machine messages. I am not going to sit around and wait for someone to invent it when I can just whip it up here in my room. That’s right, Alex Whitman is gonna knock your socks off.

I’m getting restless. I can tell because I begin to flip through some of the books on my bookshelf. I never do that. Hell, I never read. I start looking through this one thick book when I see it. It’s almost like it pops out at me. ADORABLE. Oh God no. Please don’t go there. Is this some sort of sign? Some sort of cruel joke? I thought we were cool? I mean, I did the whole catechism thing! I am a GOOD person! So I have immoral thoughts sometimes! SO DOES EVERYONE! Does that mean you’re gonna let my best friend hate me? God, that would not be a nice thing to do. I look back down at the page. ADORABLE: Delightful, lovable and charming. Worthy of adoration. HA! Are you kidding me!??? Me, adorable? Ok… lovable, maybe. I mean, it would explain why girls and me are best friends. Charming? Please! I can barely speak in coherent sentences around Isabel! Delightful, sure if you like nasty jokes and stupid random comments. Worthy of adoration??? Ok well, maybe. NO! This proved it! I have NO LIFE! Why would I be flipping through the dictionary and as a sign from God land on the word adorable (which supposedly so aptly describes me) and then realize so sadly that I am losing it! That’s it Whitman! There’s nowhere to go! DAMN the voices in my head! But it’s true! I mean, I don’t even have guy friends!! Isn’t that like abnormal!?? Does that make me a b**ch? Oh my God… I’m Liz and Maria’s b**ch! Except I’m not getting any. This is horrible. No wonder I’m the laughing stock of the whole school. I grab my guitar and my jacket and head out the door. I’m not just gonna drop this. No way! Time to head to the Crashdown Café.

I walk in about fifteen minutes later and I see Liz behind the counter serving some drinks and Maria sitting on the stool, obviously complaining. Just do it. Just go up to her and let her know that you won’t back down until this is settled. I urge my feet to walk until I’m right behind her. That’s when Liz totally sticks me out.

“Alex?! Hey! How long have you been here?” Thanks Liz, I owe you one. NO really I do. I’ll make sure you get popped later. I half smile, (so I forgave her, sue me!) and I see Maria getting up to walk into the back room.

“Wait. WAIT!” I run behind her and she turns around to face me so suddenly it was almost scary.

“WHAT!? WHAT DO YOU WANT ALEX?!”

“I want you to speak to me! Maria PLEASE just TALK to me! Look, I’m a dork. I’ll admit it, I can’t see things very clearly half the time! But I know you and I know that this is killing you inside. So just talk to me.” SO THERE! Try to fight that one Maria! Ha! Oh no, come on, don’t give me that face. That’s not fair! I don’t want us to fight anymore Ria… please stop. I feel like I’m back in elementary school when Maria and I got into a fight about her first boyfriend…Billy or something or other. I hated him. He was so stupid. He had the dumbest collection of cards I’d ever seen. And he thought he was better at the drums than me?!!! Ha! Yea, ok Billy. I always knew you were on crack. It’s not that I’m rude or anything… I just really dislike him.

“Alex… this is weird for me ok? I just, I want to go back and pretend it never happened?”

“WHAT? You can’t just PRETEND that you didn’t kiss me Ria! Ok, you just can’t! It’s… it’s not possible.” Hell, I don’t think I’d want it to be possible.

“Alex… I was upset ok! I said things I didn’t mean! I’m sorry if I acted like a jerk. I didn’t mean to. I hope you and Isabel are really happy together…” That’s it. My brain is screaming at me. This is a bad idea Alex. I KNOW! Don’t you think I KNOW that!??? But I can’t help it! I have to do this. I lean in closer and grab Maria’s face in my hands. Her eyes are so sad, so upset. I can’t make any promises yet Ria… but I promise, I’ll fix this. Say it out loud punk. NO! Of course I can’t. So instead, I kiss her. There’s too much emotion in this kiss. Too much twirling around in my head. I can remember the way I watched her sleep at our parties. Or how I sent a virus to the jerk she caught cheating on her. Isabel Evans wants to give me a chance. Isabel Evans is safe territory. I WANT her. Badly. But Maria is dangerous. She does these things…that make my head spin. I don’t want Maria…I NEED her.

“Maria…I… there’s something I should tell you.” I reach into my back pocket and pull out an old worn paper. I swing my guitar over to the front and smile. “I wrote this song in seventh grade. It was for you. Why? Because it was the year everything changed. The year we swore our permanent friendship, the year you got boobs, the year you got your first kiss, and the year I fell in love.” I can see her eyes widen. She looks so shocked! Ha! I like having that effect on her!

“Alex… don’t. You’re just going to make things more complicated.”

“For who? For you? Babe, this has been complicated. The minute I decided I was in love with you it got complicated.” I can see the frustration in her eyes. I take the guitar off to give us no barriers. I need to see her… feel her… as best I can. I need to understand her. Cause God knows I can’t understand myself. I place my hands around her waist and pull her close. This is so weird. So weird but so right. What is that POUNDING! Will you quiet down in there! Geez… you act like you’ve never been this close to a girl before. Oh, you haven’t! That’s right I forgot. I reach one hand up to put the loose strand of hair behind her ear.

“I guess what I’m trying to say Ria, is somewhere deep inside… I still… I still love…”

“ ALEX! Someone’s here to see…! OH! Sorry!” Just as my lips are slightly brushing Maria’s I can hear Liz’s outburst. TWICE! TWICE Lizzie you have ruined my moment! You are so getting popped in the head. Maria looks down and closes herself up. DAMN! LIZ! AHHHH!!!!!!!! I think I’m going to go into the bathroom and stab myself. What the hell!???

“I’m sooo sorry… I didn’t. I’m gonna go.” Yea, cause it’ll make a difference now!??? I turn back to Maria as she tries to leave the room.

“I’m not done with you yet.” I pull her back to me and see her taking deep breaths. I’ve got her relaxed. Good. Now all I need is the courage to tell her what I feel. I HAD it two seconds ago, again THANK YOU Liz.

“There’s nothing left to say.”

“Except that I’m crazy about you. Sh*t Ria, you made me want to be jock. You made me want to start a band. You made me want to quit school and travel across country just to meet with you in a different time and place. Because all those guys you went out with never knew how special you were. But I do… I know you. Inside and out. And I’m beginning to lose my cool about it.” Oh my God, I’m frickin’ sweating! Ok, you’re ok! Oh God, those eyes. She’s looking at me with those eyes and I think I’m gonna probably break all friendship rules right here, right now.

“We can’t do this… it won’t work.”

“Watch me.” I reach out and kiss her then, one of those passionate kisses I’d dreamt of giving her my whole damn life. God… this can’t be happening. I feel her pulling away slowly and I lean back and look into her eyes. She wants to, but she’s scared. Of what? Of ME!?? Am I scary? I run my fingers through her hair and lean my forehead against hers.

“There’s so much you don’t even understand Maria. For so long…”

“WAIT! You CAN’T go in there!” I can hear Liz’s voice and suddenly I hear the loud clicking of heels and the back room door fly open. There, in all her glory, is Isabel Evans.

“OH! I didn’t know that you were helping Maria! I’m sorry.” Isabel puts a worried look on her face and looks at Maria. I hadn’t even noticed Maria had started to cry. She cleans off her face and pastes on a smile.

“Maria?”

“Isabel.” Isabel looks at me.

“Alex.” Ok, so I’m freaking out and looking at Liz.

“Liz?” I look over. I’m so confused.

“Everything ok? Maria? You need anything?”

“Me? Oh no, I’m fine. JUST fine.” She puts on the fakest smile I’ve ever seen and stomps off, telling Liz she’s taking table number 4.

“What’s up her butt?”

“Isabel, please.” I look over at her and see her shocked face. Then she smiles. If I didn’t know any better, I’d think she likes having to fight for me. That’s really sick.

“I came by to tell you I thought about it.” She’s got some incredible eyes. I can feel her heat getting closer as she presses against me. “I want to give it a try. I like you Alex. I have for some time now. And I think that maybe, we could… give it a shot. But I don’t make promises. And I don’t guarantee the perfect relationship. I’m not very good at this whole… dating thing.” The sadness and innocence in her voice makes me want to reconsider. Isabel Evans isn’t the ice princess everyone makes her out to be. She’s got feelings. A little rusty and unused, sure, but feelings none the less.

“Isabel… this is a really bad time. I want to… God… I really want to, but I need to get some things settled first. I need to know that I’m doing the right thing. I never thought I’d get a chance with you… and now it’s like surreal. And I… I don’t know what to do with this mess I’m in.” I can feel her slowly stepping away from me, a hurt look in her eyes. NO! NO, Isabel please! I can’t take much more of this!

“Do you know what it took for me to come here? To open myself to you? And you’re going to shoot me down?”

“NO! I’m not shooting you down! I want to be with you! But… for the RIGHT reasons. And right now I don’t think I’m thinking clearly enough to have those reasons. So please, just… give me some time and I’ll get back to you I swear. If we’re going to be together, I want to give you all of me… right now I can’t.” Part of me belongs to someone else. I see her expression soften.

“You care about her a lot don’t you?” Huh? Is she talking to me? Ok, I am NOT going to talk to Isabel about Maria.

“Yea, I do. And her break-up today has her a little shaken up. I need to devote my attention to her right now.” Ok, I guess I AM going to talk to Isabel about Maria.

“I wish I would have had a friend like you growing up. I mean, I’ve got my brother, and Michael. But… well having a friend… I can only imagine what that must be like.” The trace of sadness practically tears up my heart.

“I’ll always be here. If you need me.” I smile at her. There I go…trying to be the ‘best friend’ again. That’s why I DON’T get any dates. That’s why I never go out with girls! I need to toughen up!

“I’ll wait as long as I have to… I just want to be with you.” She kisses my cheek and slowly walks out of the backroom, leaving me to my thoughts. I walk out into the restaurant area and see Maria is busy serving tables and Isabel is paying to leave. I look at Liz. That’s it! Why didn’t I think of it before?! I mean, she’s like my conscience! She’s one of those pesky voices I hear in my head constantly, besides my own. That’s why I love Liz! I walk over to her and sit on one of the stools at the counter. Without even noticing I start to spin from side to side and look over to where Liz’s sly glare is. Well, well. If it isn’t Max Evans sitting in booth 3.

“Why don’t you go talk to him?”

“Huh? What? I’m sorry Alex, did you say something?”

“Me? No, of course not. Liz…I have to ask you a favor.”

“Ok. Anything.”

“I need your help to stop being so… adorable. For lack of better words.” Liz puts down her rag and sits next to me at the counter.

“I don’t think I follow Alex.”

“I want to be one of the guys! I want to… go to parties and talk about girls and do other stuff guys do. Don’t get me wrong, I love hanging out with you and Maria. But I feel that, dealing with a problem with her, is harder to do with someone who’s biased. You, would be that someone.” I smile, letting her know that I am not trying to insult her in any way.

“Ok… so you want to talk to a guy about Maria and Isabel because you think they can help you more than, I your best friend, that has known you since infancy? Ok… I guess it makes sense in a strange guy kind of way.” She smiles letting me know she understands and I feel the breath of relief escape me. I knew it! I knew Liz would help me! I see her gaze drift back to Max and her smile takes on an evil hint. Oh no… I don’t like that. LIZ, STOP IT! Don’t make that face! STOP!

“I have just the thing to help you out Alex.” No…she wouldn’t. She couldn’t. She won’t!

“Liz! Liz wait! Elizabeth!” I cannot believe this! This day just gets worse and worse doesn’t it?!!! I stop right behind her at booth 3 and see Max look up at us. His eyes are practically devouring Liz. I think I’m going to be sick.

“Hey Max.” She smiles, that smile that I recognize immediately. Great, she’s a goner.

“Hey Liz…” I see him twiddling his fingers and his breathing gets a little nervous. My God! You’d think that she was naked or something!

“Ummm… Max, Alex needs some help with some, you know ‘guy’ stuff. Obviously I can’t help in that department. Would you do me the favor?” I see him look up at me and smile. Yea, ok. Like I can’t see through you Evans. Of course you’re going to say yes! You get to hang out with Liz more! You get more of a reason to be at the Crashdown. You get more of a chance to learn about her, through me! On the other hand, I get to go to your house and hang out with your beautiful, if not emotionally challenged sister. Not too bad an exchange!

“Uhh…sure Liz. No problem.” He smiles and she nods as she mouths the words thank you. Yea, like I can’t see you Liz. Geez… sometimes you are really ditzy! She turns to face me and smiles. I can read it all over her face. Payback Alex! That’s what this is! Payback for the crap you were talking this morning in school! Well FINE!!! I can handle it! It’s not like I’ve NEVER hung out with a guy! Liz smiles and heads off back to the counter. I look down at Max and slide in the seat across from him.

“So? What’s the problem? Is it about my sister?” Max smiles and I can’t help but feel he knows a little too much for comfort.

“Uh, well that’s only half of the problem. See, I really like your sister…” WHY AM I TELLING HIM THIS?!! Max…you are DEAD wrong man! With that honest look and caring voice! YOU FOOL ME!

“I know…I’ve been watching you watch her for almost three years. It’s amazing how after all the layers she’s built up to hide her from the world, you’ve managed to knock them down so quickly.” Layers? What like onions? Like SHREK?! Sorry…too many cartoons.

“And what about you? You’ve been making googley eyes at Liz since say… third, maybe fourth grade?”

“What?”

“You hear me… what about you? You’ve managed to change her you know. She’s not this little girl anymore. I noticed that when she dumped Kyle. So…just a warning: Watch it with her. If she gets hurt…I’m coming after you.” Max looked down, a thoughtful look on his face, then quickly looked back up.

“Ok…fair. So what do you need?”

“I’ve been after Isabel, as you so eloquently put it, for about three years. I’m completely and utterly infatuated with her! And now, thanks to you, she finally noticed me.”

“No Alex… I had nothing to do with it. She’s been noticing you. Why do you think she sat in front of you in class? It wasn’t out of charity goodness, that’s for sure.”

“Well regardless, now that I have the chance…I’m not sure I can take it.” I could see Max sitting up, slightly frustrated.

“Why not?”

“Maria.” I nod my head over and give him a look that should describe our situation at the moment. Tense and angry but completely and utterly in love.

“Oh…wow. You’ve got yourself a mess.”

“Tell me about it. It’s what I get for being so… adorable.” For the first time in my laugh I hear Max Evans laugh. It’s funny, to see his serious brooding face get al wrinkled in laughter.

“Well… do you love her?”

“Who?”

“Maria!”

“Oh…! Well, yea! I mean, she’s my best friend…”

“No…I mean do you LOVE her?” My eyebrows go up in response. Am I supposed to pour my heart out to you already Evans!?? This is only our first date!

“To death.”

“But…”

“She’s my friend! I don’t… I don’t want to ruin that. Because if something happens to us, while we’re, you know, together, and our friendship falls apart… I’d probably die.” He nods and then he looks up at me, his eyes full of wonder.

“Ok… I think I have an idea. But it’s going to require some work on your part. Ok?” I nod my head. What the heck have I got to lose?

posted on 22-Jul-2002 6:46:31 PM by roswellianprincess16
Part 4:

Saturday. It’s probably my favorite day of the week. Let’s see, I’ve got band practice at 1pm, I’ve got homework that I won’t do until tomorrow, I have to talk to Maria, get Isabel a gift, and I have to get Liz to go with me to the movies tonight. Wow, I’m a pretty busy guy. I look over at the clock and smile. It’s 11:30am. I should start getting ready.

Once band practice is over I make my way to the Crashdown for a late lunch. I’m starved. Knowing the waitresses is always a plus too… FREE FOOD!!! Oh yes, I have a good life. Except for the whole Maria isn’t speaking to me, Isabel is kind of offended, and I have to get Max with Liz thing. Besides that though, everything is going about as it would normally. I walk in and see Liz cleaning the coffee maker. Good old reliable Liz. Where’s Maria? My eye darts around the room to find her serving booth 3, where a not too happy Michael Guerin is sitting. I sit on one of the stools and turn to face the booth. Looks like they’re having an interesting conversation.

“What the hell is up your ass today DeLuca? What happened to customer service?”

“Screw you Michael! You want service? You gotta order first!”

“If you were nicer, I would order with no problem.”

“LOOK! If you don’t like the way I am serving you, then go somewhere else!?” I see his eyebrows go up and his expression softens a bit.

“You must be really pissed. Wanna talk about it?”

“You’d be the LAST person I want to talk about it with… trust me.”

“Can’t say I didn’t offer.”

“Are you TRYING to be obnoxious??” I see Maria turn and march her way over to the back room, her hair flying behind her in a fury. I look back over to the booth and suddenly see Michael fly up to follow her, probably more pissed off than she is… if that’s possible. I can’t help but be curious. What the hell does he want with her? Liz seems to be going about her business, completely oblivious to the tension. Well, not me. I sit myself at the last stool near the kitchen opening and can hear the angry sounds of Michael and Maria.

“You know if you stopped being so frickin’ proud I’d be able to help you!”

“What makes you think I need help!??”

“I see things Maria! I can tell when you’re ABNORMALLY pissed. Today would be it!”

“So what?!! Don’t I have the right to be angry?”

“This isn’t your usual anger!”

“What the hell do you know about my USUAL anger Michael!??? You don’t know sh*t about me! Ok?” I can hear her voice get thick. She’s definitely beyond angry right now.

“Oh yea!?? I know enough to know that you’re pissed at Isabel! I know enough to know why!”

“WHAT!?? Whatever! Whatever Michael!” I can hear her start to walk out when she suddenly gasps.

“Don’t walk away from me.”

“LET GO OF ME!”

“What’s the matter Maria… not the princess anymore? What’s the matter? Pissed because your best friend is pining over a different girl?! That’s it isn’t it!?? You’re pissed cause finally, you’re not the ONLY girl in his life. And it burns you up to know that you’ve lost him… and not to just anyone, but to Isabel Evans, the most beautiful and popular girl in school.” Even without being in the room I can feel the tension rising. Why didn’t he just leave her alone!??? That’s it! I can’t stand this! I get up to make my way to the room and stop short at her comment.

“F**K YOU MICHAEL! You think you’re so f**king special!! What do you want??!! Huh? What??? Will it make you feel better if I told you!?? YES! That’s why I’m pissed! Because I am SICK and TIRED of always being second best. I HATE Isabel Evans. I HATE myself and honestly right now I HATE you more than anything. And what do you plan to do about it?” I can imagine her hands on her hips and her eyes bright blue, the way they always get when she’s angry. But all I hear is silence. Complete and utter silence. I move to the door and when it swings open I stand in shock. There, in the middle of the room, Michael Guerin grabbed Maria and kissed her. I don’t think I’ve ever felt my heart stop quicker. WHAT THE HELL IS HE DOING!??? Michael Guerin is the worst kind of slime! The kind that Maria should DEFINITELY stay away from! The kind that we’ve already discussed does NOT deserve her! He needs to get his f**king hands OFF OF HER!

“Hope I’m not interrupting anything.” I stand at the door, the heat pumping through my veins. Never in my life have I wanted to kill a human being more than I do now. Michael WILL not take advantage of Maria’s current vulnerable situation and if I have to kill him myself to make sure of that, I will. I see Maria quickly shake herself away and look over at the door in a panic.

“ALEX?” I raise an eyebrow at her and then look over at Michael. Son of a b**ch. I hate him.

“Alex.” Is he talking to me? Oh, I know he isn’t talking to me.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing Michael?”

“Last I checked I was kissing Maria.”

“Really?! Well… let me tell you something about Maria that you may not know. See…Maria doesn’t like slime bags. In fact, just yesterday morning, we so graciously proved that in school by making Joey Fillmore look like an ass wipe. Today, however, seems to provide a whole new problem. You.”

“You know Whitman… you really are something? You’re not with her, you’re practically dating someone else, but you won’t let anyone have her?! That’s mighty selfish of you.”

“You don’t know sh*t about this situation. So I suggest you stay out of it.”

“Well, from what I hear it was Isabel with $200 dollar flowers, not Maria.”

“F**k you Michael! You think you know what the hell is going on? Well guess what! You DON’T!!”

“I know that you think you can have the best of both worlds… and guess what!??? You CAN’T. Sorry Whitman… looks like someone ELSE noticed Maria’s grown up.” I was just about to say something else when I hear Maria practically explode.

“STOP IT! STOP IT BOTH OF YOU! My God… I… I just need to get some air.” She pushes Michael and I apart (I hadn’t even noticed I was in his face. What was I thinking? He’d kick my ass!) and then makes her way outside with a slam of the back door.

“SEE!?? You happy now? Look what you did!” What I did!??? Oh, so now it’s my fault!

“You know what? You’re not worth my energy.” I move past him and out the door. I HAVE to talk to Maria. I move into the alley and hear the soft cries. Oh God… the waterworks. I hate this. This situation I’m in really sucks. Thanks Michael, for putting a HUGE dent in my plans.

“Ria?”

“Leave me ALONE. I want to be ALONE!”

“No… no I’m sorry, but I’m not gonna leave you alone. We have to talk. You need to get this out.”

“Get what out Alex? WHAT? Everything he said in there is TRUE! EVERYTHING! God… I hate it, but it’s true. You love Isabel. And I’m going to be pushed aside and forgotten. I can’t compare to her!!!! I just… I’m losing you!” I move closer and taker her shoulders in my arms.

“Look at me. Maria…look at me.” I see her wet eyes look up and notice that they’re practically gray. “You could NEVER be second best. Even… even if I were to get married and we wouldn’t be together…you would still be the woman that I love. My wife would hate you, sure. But, NOTHING can change that. Not even pricks like Michael Guerin.” Quick talking Alex. Now just hope she’ll forgive you for being an idiot and arguing the way you did.

“No. Maybe not Michael Guerin, but Isabel Evans sure could. I saw the way she looked at you yesterday Alex. I’m not stupid. I know that you and her are going to get together. And that’s fine. I mean, you’re going to be happy. Michael was right to say all those things…”

“WHAT!? No! NO! You listen to me now ok? I don’t care if people tease me, or step all over me, or talk crap to me. But NO ONE does that to my friends. And NO ONE does that to you! Do you understand!? He had no right to say a thing to you and especially no right to push the matter once you said you didn’t want to talk about it.” I take her face in my hands and move in closer to whisper.

“He doesn’t know a thing about us. And he was wrong. He was very wrong. Because he doesn’t know how I feel. He doesn’t know what it was like. To grow up with two female best friends… to fall in love with one and then know that you’re never going to be more than a friend to her. To watch you go out with other guys. It was torture. It still is.” Oh God… Max would kill me right now. I’m breaking the rules. I’m breaking all of the rules we set up! Stop yourself Alex! Before it’s too late! I let go of her face and move away before the desire to kiss her takes over my senses. Sometimes it happens so fast I can’t even think. Right now, I’m not thinking clearly.

“Alex?” Her voice snaps me back to reality. Damn! Why? WHY!?? I love my little dream world. I love being able to control actions, thoughts, people, and places! EVERYTHING! In my dream world I am GOD! Ok, sorry. Having a power trip.

“Yea?” I look over at her and notice that I had turned around. Being around her is just too much for a guy to handle. I can’t do it. It’ll drive me insane. I mean, aren’t the little voices in my head enough!?? Now I have to worry about jumping on Maria and practically attacking her with male testosterone!? Come on man! It’s just not fair!

“Do you love her?”

“Love her?”

“Yea. Do you love Isabel?”

“Well, Ria, ummm love is like a really strong word.”

“Do you love me?” Sh*t! Don’t do this Maria! I have a promise to keep! Max made me promise! God… this is unbelievable! What do I owe Max!?? Nothing! Until I open my mouth and get in trouble.

“Maria… you have to understand that what I feel for Isabel and what I feel for you are two totally different feelings.”

“Why?”

“Well…” Why?? What the hell? Maria!!! God help me. “Well, because I know you better than I know her. I mean, I only just know her from afar. I’ve never actually held a five minute conversation with her!”

“So what do you feel then?”

“What do I feel?” Am I supposed to tell you this? This is really uncomfortable Maria! I feel myself squirm a bit, then put my hands in my pocket.

“Well… she’s really pretty…”

“So you wanna jump her bones.” Was that a statement or a question?

“Ummm… you know, Maria maybe we shouldn’t…”

“You don’t think I’m f**kable Alex?” WHAT!??? Where did THAT come from? HOLY CRAP! Oh my dear God… ok, breathe Alex… just breathe.

“Uh, Maria… I uh, this is not a good conversation for us… I mean, I just don’t think that…”

“You’re telling me you’ve never seen me as sexually attractive? At all?!” I could almost laugh at the disappointment in her voice if I wasn’t so busy trying to calm my body down.

“Maria… ok. You… are very attractive. Very… a whole lot. Ok? And… guys sometimes, I mean, of course I’ve… ok, I don’t know how to put this. Of course, I think you’re sexy. But… I can’t let something like that be the deciding factor in what I want in a woman!” Good! You let it all out nice and quick!

“What else do you look for?” I could see her curious eyes looking up at me and I curse under my breath. MAX!!! Where are you when I need you!!! LIKE NOW!

“Ria… look. Don’t take this personally. But… I kind of made myself a promise that I wouldn’t do this. I wouldn’t torture myself like this. I need you to understand that I am trying to give you what you need. And I’m looking out for myself too. So… just… let me try and figure out my game plan first, and then we can talk about it.”

“What I need? YOU are what I need Alex. And as far as I can tell… I’m not getting that. All I’m getting is Michael.” The sudden shoot of jealousy almost knocked me out. I wonder if that’s what it feels like to shoot up drugs?? Ok Alex, who cares? What are you suddenly gonna become a junkie? You know… that doesn’t sound half bad. I go to say something when I hear my name. God? Is that you saving me?!!!

“ALEX!” I recognize the voice immediately.

“MAX!” I see him turn the corner and meet me and Maria in the alley.

“You ready?”

“OH! I totally forgot! Oh my God…I’m so sorry. Ok, I’m on it.” I look over at Maria and smile.

“Sorry… I sorta had something to do. We finish talking later?”

“Sure. Whatever. OR maybe I’ll just find Michael and have myself an interesting conversation with him.”

“And I’ll hunt you down and shoot him.”

“I thought you were gonna say shoot me.”

“No, definitely him. But I’d probably spank you.”

“I’d probably like it.” OH MY GOD! Are me and Maria talking dirty!??? NO way!! Oh my goodness! I’m permanently traumatized!

“Okkkk…well umm… Alex? I think I’ll meet you inside.”

“NO! I’m coming.” Oh God... I’m coming? I’m coming sounds like I’m… NO! Don’t even go there! GET IT OUT!!! Dirty dirty mind!

“Stay away from him.”

“Yes Dad.” She smiles and I finally feel like I got through to her. Well, at least she’s talking to me. I make my way inside and Max grabs punches my arm.

“Ok… WHAT was that!??”

“Hey… I’m just as confused as you are!!”

“Seriously Alex, how the heck do you manage to have that effect on ladies?”

“I guess I’m just your typical pimp daddy.” We both start laughing and then I stop. “Or maybe I’m just adorable.”

“Sounds like you’re describing a poodle.”

“Shut up!” We laugh again and head over to the counter where I’m expected to work magic.

“Liz? Hey, umm… you wanna take a break? I mean… take the rest of the night off?”

“Actually Alex, that’s really sweet, but there’s a lot of work to be done and it’s just me and Maria. Hi Max.” She smiles and looks at Max who’s standing next to me. Oh God… I was hoping it wouldn’t come to this.

“Well, I could take over.” I cringe inwardly. NO! I don’t WANT to serve tables! NO!

“Really?! You’d do that for me?” I nod and see her suspicious expression. “What’s the catch?” I smile and suddenly feel excited. You know, maybe Max and Liz together would be a good thing.

“Go out tonight. Take Maxie here out. He needs a break. He’s overworked. See?? Do you see those unattractive bags under his eyes? That rough face? He hasn’t even showered in days!” I see Max’s expression and almost bust out laughing. “I’m kidding! Geez… just kidding. Seriously Liz, go have fun. I’ll be fine.” I smile and she jumps up to hug me and kisses my cheek. Aww shucks Liz. She pulls away and takes the antennas off her head and places them on mine, just as Maria walks through the back door. She doesn’t even wait for me to turn around so she can start laughing hysterically.

“I have to say, that is the most sparkling moment I’ve seen you Alex!” We all laugh and Liz runs to the back to change. When she comes back out, she hands me her name clip. She waves goodbye to Maria and then her and Max head out. Maria looks at me and laughs again.

“Take those stupid things off!” I laugh and make my voice as girlish as possible.

“Hi, I’m Liz Parker and welcome to the Crashdown, can I show you the universe?” Maria practically choked on her spit and I just have to laugh again. These are the moments I live for.



posted on 23-Jul-2002 5:07:16 PM by roswellianprincess16
Author's Note: Ok... you guys have no clue how happy I am that you're enjoying this!!!! SERIOUSLY! I didn't think it'd do too well, but I'm glad it is! I really hope you guys keep up the great fb... it makes me so happy that I end up writing a new chapter!! (Wonder how that happens...weird huh?) *happy* Ok... WARNING: this may get kind of... uh, intersting. I think I was smart in rating it R.

Part 5:

I flip over the sign and sigh loudly. CLOSED. Do you weird alien freaks understand that?! CLOSED for the night. No more serving you freaks anything. God… who knew so many people in Roswell ate here? I didn’t. I turn around and make my way back to my favorite stools. Yes, there is nothing better than spinning on the stools of the Crashdown Café, late at night, with no one else there, but Maria. Woah, ok back up. With no one else there, but Maria? Ok, now I know that should not excite me… and it doesn’t. ARGH! Yes it does! Sh*t! Knowing she’s in that little Crashdown uniform in the next room probably pulling her hair out of that ponytail and shaking her head to let it fall loose… STOP! Geez… my mind is like a frickin’ IMAX film. I turn around when I hear the back door swing open.

“Hey.”

“Hey back.” I smile and Maria comes to sit in the magical spinning stool next to me. Yes, it is magical. Don’t believe me? Come over here and I’ll tell you. No… closer. Closer. Ok… when I was six, Maria spun me on that chair really fast and I almost fell, but instead I knocked right into her in the next stool and I kissed her nose. What? You think it’s stupid? Well, forget you then! Get out of my face! Hmm… I have to wonder if it’s normal to have arguments with the voices in my head. My therapist wouldn’t think so. Of course, she just got divorced and her daughter just got pregnant by some Spanish guy named Julio who doesn’t speak English. Oh well, what does she know.

“You got plans tonight?”

“Me? Come on Maria… when do I ever have plans? You seem to forget, you are talking to Alex Whitman, geek extraordinaire.”

“You wanna do something?”

“What?” I lean my elbow up against the counter and put my chin on my hand pathetically.

“I don’t know. Something. We could start with like… ice cream, maybe end with…skinny dipping.” COUGH! Yes, I just coughed. Probably my balls… since that statement just scared the flying f**k out of me. That’s insane! Is she serious??? The idea… well it’s just… alluring. I would probably die of a heart attack. Whoever said kids can’t get heart attacks at my age obviously never had Maria DeLuca ask them to go skinny-dipping.

“Sk-ski-skinny dipping? As in… naked swimming?” I hear her laughter and almost feel like slamming her on the counter and taking her right there. NO ALEX! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!!! Woah, my hormones are seriously taking over any normal thought processes.

“Well, uh, yea Alex. That’s usually what it entails. Unless of course, we uh, put a new spin on it. Like ice cream AND skinny dipping, at approximately the same time.” Close your mouth. Alex close it. I know you have it open and you look like an idiot so just close it and spare yourself the embarrassment. Well, at least she’s not looking down at my pants… that would TRULY be embarrassing. She’s biting her bottom lip. Why? WHY!? This is so not funny… this is just so not right. This is just… ok you get the picture. It’s Saturday. Did I mention that already? Saturday night to be exact. And NO ONE should be alone on Saturday nights. NO ONE. Not even losers like me. So what am I trying to get at? What do you think, genius? I mean, come on, it’s not that hard.

“Umm… sure. Ice cream and skinny-dipping. That sounds… great. Seriously Maria, could you not come up with something a bit more traditional? More… uh normal?”

“What like dinner and a movie?”

“Yea, that works.”

“That’s for wussies. I am not a wussie and you Alex are not a punk who’s gonna try to take advantage of me in a dark movie theater.” No… instead I get to take advantage of you in a dark lake. HELLO!?? Does this make sense to anyone else?? You! Does this make sense to you? Sh*t! You know what? Don’t answer that. I don’t think I want to know.

“Maria… I don’t think this is such a good idea.”

“What… now you’re too good to hang out with me too?”

“This isn’t just hanging out.”

“What is it?”

“SKINNY DIPPING!” Umm… I thought we had this conversation already.

“So?”

“Maria… normal friends, don’t go skinny dipping together.”

“Who says?”

“I do.”

“If you don’t want to, you don’t have to. It was just an offer.” She looks at me and for a second I feel my breath catch in my chest. Holy mother… she’s totally seducing me! What the hell is up with that?! She gives me a pout and spins around on the stool.

“You’re playing with fire DeLuca.” Woah! WAS THAT JUST ME!?? It’s like all of a sudden I’m past puberty and in my 30’s! Where the heck did that come from?!!

“I like the heat.” She spins to face me and all of a sudden it’s like I’m taken back to that day, when we were face to face, her cute chubby cheeks laughing at me and my lips reaching up to her face. Not much has changed since then. Her dad is gone, my family is weird, she’s had sex (or at least she says she has… I don’t totally believe that one though), I’m in love, we’ve grown up. Ok, so maybe things are a little different. Ok, a whole lotta different. But one thing is majorly different. I can kiss her again, except this time, her lips are mine. I lean in and touch her lips with mine… soft, sensual lips that are all Maria. I kiss harder, leaning forward to make myself comfortable in the spinning stool. I can feel the want in her kiss and it drives me crazy. No, seriously. I mean right now, I’m thinking of stupid sh*t like skydiving and bungee jumping and anything with an adrenaline rush. None of those things compare to this… or what could come of this. Oh my God… I’m having very, VERY vivid images of a better use for this counter. Holy crap. Ok, I need to calm down. OH NO! ALEX YOU BROKE THE RULES! Max is going to murder me. He is just totally going to murder me. Of course, if I got laid tonight, I wouldn’t… STOP! NO, Alex, if you and Maria ever had sex, it wouldn’t be…sex. It would be… hell, it would be a frickin’ explosion. It would be… magic.

I pull away and see her eyes, those dark blue eyes are completely dreamy, and she is sooo off in her own world. Maybe I should take her to mine. Maybe in my world she can get naked and wrap herself up in whipped cream and… OH! Sorry about that! That’s my own little personal fantasy. Of course, Maria and Isabel alternate… but tonight. Tonight it’s ALL about Maria.

“Maybe we should… uh… maybe we should just stop.”

“Stop?” Ok, Maria, breathing like that is just gonna get me more excited… and I’m in enough frickin’ pain thank you very much.

“Yea… let’s go get that ice cream.” And a very, very cold shower.

“Right… ice cream.” She swallows hard and my eyes drift down to the v-neck of her Crashdown uniform. She’s got on a red bra. RED! Oh my GOD! I remember when she first got boobs! Ha! She totally freaked. ‘MA!!!! WHAT THE HELL ARE THESE THINGS!???’ Oh yea, that was classic.

“Alex! Hello?! Up here!” Oh sh*t! Oh man! I didn’t even notice I was staring! OH man!

“S-s-s-sorry… I uh, I was just uh…” I feel her hand wrap tightly around my wrist and she pulls me into the back room.

“Ok, we’re going. NOW.” She throws me onto the couch and goes over to her locker. She takes off the antennas and rips open the Crashdown uniform.

“WOAH! MARIA! Hello?! Guy, right here.” I can hear her laugh again and she turns around, her uniform completely unbuttoned, her matching red bra and undies just screaming at me. DAMN! NO! Ok, ok, I can’t do this.

“Come on Alex. It’s not like you’ve never seen it before.”

“Don’t be so sure.” She laughs and turns around again. IT’S NOT FUNNY RIA!

“Well Alex… uh I hate to break it to ya, but skinny dipping requires getting butt naked. Which means, that these things, won’t be an issue.”

“Don’t remind me.” She pulls on some jeans and a tiny tee shirt. Lord help me. I will never again play a practical joke. I won’t look at another woman and think bad thoughts. No OTHER woman. Please understand that that means I look at Maria and think very naughty thoughts.

“Ok. Ready. Pull the pint out of the freezer. I’ll go start heating up the car.” Do we really need to heat anything else up?

“Ok, I’ll meet you in the car.” She goes off and I have to smile. This isn’t happening! This is just one of those dreams you have when you’ve had too much Sunkist. Yea, that’s it. You are just way too happy. So… your body is freaking out and reacting with a very vivid and very nice dream. Hey, I’m not complaining. It beats unicorns and rainbows, that’s for sure. I pull out the pint of ice cream and turn off the lights. The Parkers will be home in about an hour. Liz will be home in about two. And Maria and I will be off skinny-dipping. Ah, yes. This is an interesting evening. I lock the back door behind me and see Maria’s car lights through the alley. Then I feel the tug on my arm.

“Alex?! Help me… please help me.” I look over and see Isabel, her eyes red and bloodshot, her hands shaking.

“ISABEL?! What’s the matter? Isabel, what’s wrong?”

“I can’t… I can’t feel my legs…” I feel her topple into my arms and in the light I can see the bruises. Oh my God. Look at her face…that beautiful face. I feel the anger begin to burn. Who the hell would do that to her?!

“Who did this? WHO DID THIS!?”

“I need… to talk…to Max.” WHAT?!

“Isabel, just tell me who did this. We’ll get to Max.”

“I can’t…” Then she just faints. Holy crap. Oh my God. What am I supposed to do?! Call 911! Yes, that’s what I’ll do! But Max! I’ll call Max’s cell phone tell him to meet us at the hospital! Ok, good. It sounds like a plan. I pick her up and make my way to Maria’s car. She jumps out of the car and looks like she’s about to freak.

“WHAT THE HELL!???”

“Call Max.”

“Alex…”

“CALL HIM!”

“Ok…ok.” She dials the number furiously and I catch bits of the conversation as I try to get Isabel into the car.

“No… I don’t know… She passed out… What about the hospital? What!?… Bad, Max! No… it’s serious! Whatever fine! Yes, five minutes!” I can feel my stomach beginning to knot up. This isn’t good.

“What’d he say?”

“He said to meet him at Michael’s house in five minutes.”

“MICHAEL’S HOUSE?! For what!? She needs a f**king doctor!”

“I don’t know!!!! STOP YELLING AT ME!” I stop and take a breath. Oh sh*t. Maria… oh God… I didn’t even notice. I’m just so nervous. So riled up… so scared…I HATE THESE KIND OF UNPLANNED MOMENTS!!

“Maria…Maria., I’m so sorry. I’m so, so sorry.” I walk over and kiss her lips trying to express my apologies. Damn, I’m a real jerk.

“Fine. Whatever. Let’s just go.” She gets in the car and I jump in the passenger seat.

“Hey Maria?”

“What?”

“You forgot the ice cream.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*Don't fret! This chapter actually has a point I promise! LOL... you just don't know it yet! Oh by the way, KAT... this fic is dedicated to you, Goddess of Sunkist. *happy**
posted on 25-Jul-2002 6:00:09 PM by roswellianprincess16
Part 6:

I can barely think straight through the pounding in my temples. I don’t even remember when I got the headache, all I know is that now, I’m practically blinded by the constant and loud thud in my head. I put my arm around Maria who is sleeping on my shoulder. God, how a part of me wishes we would’ve just gone dipping earlier. But that’s mean Alex! What about Isabel!? You wouldn’t have seen her! I will my conscience to shut up. Now is not the time. I sigh loudly and notice the silence around me. Max and Michael were with Isabel in Michael’s bedroom and they’d been in there for almost an hour. What the HELL were they doing?!! She is gonna die without a doctor! I hear the whispers of a conversation and then I hear bits and pieces of a quiet argument. NO… I’m not eavesdropping… I just happen to be listening in to a conversation that doesn’t involve me, but I’m interested in! You don’t know anything!

“Who did it?”

“They know too much...”

“They saved her life.”

“You think it’s related to what we learned about…?”

“Heal her…”

“[…] Heal normally.”

“Maria… blabber mouth…”

“Trust them…”

“Are you CRAZY!?”

“Shhh…” I force myself to hear more clearly. I look over at the love seat and see Liz, her body wrapped up tightly as she sleeps. I really wish she could’ve finished her date with Max. This whole situation really sucks. I close my eyes for a second, feeling the tired burn behind them and hear the footsteps. I turn and see Max coming out of the room, rubbing his eyes with his hands, looking like he’d been to hell. Poor Max… damn, I can’t even be mad at him. I don’t have a sister, but I’ve got Maria and Liz… and if they ever got hurt like that, I’d mutilate the person who did it. Male or female.

“How is she?” I look up at Max who suddenly realizes I’m awake.

“She’s… well, she’ll be ok.”

“Max… what happened? Why didn’t you take her to the hospital? Do you know that if she was attacked she has to report it?! This is really serious Evans.” I see Max sigh and then he sits across from me, with Liz on the love seat. He looks down at her lying on the couch arm and the look in his eyes almost scares me. My God… he looks at her with these eyes. There’s so much longing and passion in them. It’s sooo obvious! How is it Liz hasn’t noticed! Well, it’s Liz we’re talking about.

“Alex… there are things about Isabel and I that you don’t know. Things that make us a little bit different than everyone else. I can’t tell you what happened to her, honestly I’m not too sure myself. We’re going to have to wait until she wakes up. But I need you to trust me. I have never done anything to betray our trust and I don’t intend to. Just trust that I know what’s best for my sister.”

“Max… but this is complicated. What if she was raped? Or what if she was mugged? She needs to see a doctor.”

“Listen to me Alex, Isabel and I were adopted. She hates doctors. In fact, they seem to make her worse. So, we try to keep her away as much as possible. She will be fine, really.” His tone is reassuring, but my logic is screaming at me that something is so wrong. They need a frickin’ social worker.

“Max. I’ve never seen anyone so scared before, and to see those bruises, well it really made me want to kill the bastard. Please… just tell me why you can’t take her in.” I see him open his mouth when Michael comes into the room.

“Because he said no. It’s that simple. Maxwell takes care of his sister. There’s no reason to believe this time will be any different.”

“This is different! This isn’t some cold or the flu! This is a possible murder, rape, or robbery attempt! This is the loss of safety for ALL women in Roswell! You are only 16 years old Max. What can you do for her?” Michael goes to make another smart comment and Max silences him.

“You’re right. And I don’t expect you to understand it all now. But maybe one day, Alex. Maybe one day you’ll understand why taking her to the doctor right now could make her situation worse.” I clench my fist in anger and softly pull Maria off my shoulder.

“I want to see her.”

“NO!” Michael’s sudden reaction makes me confused. Michael never reacts to anything, especially not that quickly. What the f**k are they HIDING!???

“Michael! Yes, Alex. You can see her. But only for about 5 minutes. She needs her rest.” I don’t even acknowledge the comment. I walk past them and into the dark room. I can hear her breathing and it’s comforting to know she’s sleeping soundly. I sit at the edge of the bed and grab one of her hands.

“Isabel… I don’t know if you can hear me. I know you’re exhausted but I have to ask you something.” Her breathing is my only answer so I keep on, letting my words marinate in her brain.

“I was so scared to see you that way today. That look of pure horror on your face is something I’ll never forget. And for a minute, for a minute I thought I’d lose you. And it scared the sh*t out of me. Not because I like you, or because we’re becoming friends. But because I realized there was some sick bastard out there willing and waiting to hurt someone as innocent and beautiful as you. And it scares me. Because I don’t want this to happen to you, or to anyone. To Liz, Maria. I’m scared for them Isabel. You have to tell me what happened.” I feel her fingers tighten around my hand and when I look down at her, her eyes are half open, a small smile on her face.

“I’m ok Alex. He tried to rob me, but I fought him off. I’m ok now.” I look into her eyes, but something in them is distant. I reach out to brush the hair out of her face when I feel a crazy rush of energy. It doesn’t even take more than a minute, but I can see the image of a dark haired man, his hands all over her hair, his lips all over her face. He’s telling her he’s been searching for her and that she must go back with him. He tells her that she’s his. Then a bright blue light shines and he goes flying. He gets up pissed and with a wave of his hand, he has her up against the wall of what looks like the alley of the Crashdown and kisses her hard again.

“You’re still the same b**ch you were then. Don’t fight me, or I’ll kill you again.”

WHAT THE F**K!!!??? Ok, that was some real freaky sh*t!

“Wh- wh- what was that!?” I can see her eyes get really wide. Oh great Alex, scare the living lights out of her, like she hasn’t had enough for a night.

“Oh God… Alex what did you do?” Her eyes begin to fill with tears and I feel mine break. What is wrong with her? Isabel please, talk to me.

“Alex.” I hear Max’s voice at the door and I feel my pulse quicken. Something isn’t right about this.

“ALEX!!!!!!!!” The scream pierces the silence. I don’t even think, I just run to the living room. That’s when I see Maria, her face sweating, in Michael’s arms as he comforts her.

“It’s ok… you’re fine now. It was just a dream.” I can’t help the jealousy bubbling inside me and I go over to the couch to separate them.

“Ria… Ria you ok?”

“Oh God… oh God I had the worst nightmare. I just… oh God.” She threw herself away from Michael and onto my shoulders and I looked over to the door where Max now stood.

“I think you guys should leave." I turn to see Liz stir and look up at Max groggily. He smiles sadly and I can see he’s battling some sort of inner thing.

“Max? What’s going on? Is she ok?”

“She’s fine Liz. You should go home… I’ll call you.” He walks over to her and kisses her forehead softly. “Thank you for tonight.”

“Max… I want to stay.”

“You can’t.”

“Why?”

“Liz… please.” I can hear his voice thicken. He sounds like he’s gonna completely freak out. She gets up and hugs him. I can’t help but be amazed. They have this connection that’s just… weird.

“Call me if you need anything.” She smiles and begins to make her way out of the door, with Maria pulling herself away from me to follow.

“We’re going to have to talk about this Max.”

“Goodnight Alex. And thank you. For saving my sister.” I shrug and bid them goodnight to follow after Ria and Liz. When I hear the door close behind me, I go back to listen in quickly.

“We’re going to have to make up a cover story Maxwell.”

“I’m tired of hiding Michael. I’m tired of keeping this all in!”

“You… WE don’t have a choice!”

“But… they won’t tell. LIZ won’t tell.”

“Maybe, but what about Alex? He’s already threatening with cops. Or Maria? That girl’s got the biggest mouth in New Mexico! NO MAXWELL! It is out of the question.”

“You cannot make this decision on your own.”

“And neither can you.”

“Well, I guess it’s up to Isabel then.” WHAT!??? Why does this sound like a really bad government conspiracy movie? What in the WORLD is going on!?? I walk over to the Jetta and get in to the back. Liz is already dozing off in the front seat, and Maria looks pretty upset. Maybe Max Evans isn’t who I thought he was. Maybe he isn’t safe for Liz. And I don’t like that Michael… especially with Maria.

“So wait… wait, please go over this again. I’m completely and utterly confused.”

“Yea, this doesn’t make any sense.”

“Look, all I know is that I touched her hair and all of a sudden, it was like I could see her thoughts.” Even as I say it out loud, it sounds stupid. What the heck am I trying to prove here?

“Alex… be logical.” I look at Liz and suddenly I see a strange look on her face.


“I know what you mean.” Maria looks at her like she’s crazy and then at me. Hey Ria, I don’t know anymore than you do.

“Liz?”

“Well… see, last night at the movies, Max and I kissed. And at first it was like, I don’t know like electrifying. But then, then it was like I could see his thoughts. Like I saw me as he saw me. I saw him as a child, when he got adopted. All of a sudden, it was like I knew things that I couldn’t have known. Things that, didn’t make sense.” I can see Liz shifting uncomfortably. Yea Liz, tell us this now. All late, when we can’t really use the information for ANYTHING! And wait until I get that Evans! Kissing on the first date!!! How tacky is that!???

“So wait… you guys are telling me that Max and Isabel have some sort of… telekinetic power?”

“Possibly.” Liz looks at Maria, obviously feeling stupid.

“Oh my God, this is the biggest load of bullsh*t I’ve ever seen. Come ON ALEX! She’s obviously playing little Miss Victim in order to get you to help her and be there for her.”

“Maria, you saw that she was hurt. That wasn’t a joke.”

“But she went and took it a step further by working some sort of witch voodoo on you!”

“It’s not like that!”

“So then what is it!??”

“Are you letting your jealousy get the best of your perception?!!! Come on Ria! Where the hell is the compassion?”

“I don’t feel sh*t for that b**ch. I’m just glad she wasn’t dead.” Even as she’s up and stepping out in a rage, I can’t believe she just said that. That’s not like Maria at all. What is wrong with her? Liz looks at me strangely and I look just as confused.

“I’ll get her.” Liz scrambles up and fixes her Crashdown uniform as I’m left on the couch in the backroom. Something is wrong with people all over Roswell. Must be something in the water. It’s about 9:00pm and the Crashdown is closing up. I hear a ‘goodnight’ when the bell of the door rings and only voices are heard. I get up to join Maria and Liz when all of a sudden all I hear is glass breaking. Flying monkeys! (Ok… I have NO idea why I just said that.) I run quickly into the room when I see a tall man, with dark brown hair grabbing onto Liz’s neck. I look to the floor and there is Maria, unconscious. Oh my BOB! Ok.. Ok Alex just hit him. Before I can process another thought, I throw myself on this tall guy, who I’ve never seen before, and push him to the ground. I feel a heavy weight on me and all of a sudden a bright green light is sending me towards the wall. WHAT WAS THAT!?? I shake my head and I see him cornering Liz.

“Where is he?”

“Who?”

“MAX EVANS. I want him now!” Well, buddy, that sounds like a personal problem. I see him pull out a gun. Oh my God… this isn’t happening. Tell me this isn’t happening. If he can send me flying, why doesn’t he just kill her that way? Why a gun?

“They can NEVER know who I am.” He points the gun to her stomach and I practically pass out when I hear it go off.

“LIZ!!!!!!!!” I don’t think I could tell, whether it was me or whether it was Max. But in seconds, the tall scary dude was on the floor and I was running to Liz’s side.

“Liz please… please stay with me. I’m gonna call the ambulance, and you’re going to be fine. I swear it.”

“Finally, we meet again. Vilandra was not a good girl last night. I thought maybe you and I could settle the score. And if I win, I get to keep the kingship, and the girl.” I look over at Max and feel the headache coming on. This is a nightmare. That’s it Alex…it’s a nightmare. So you’re just maximumly confused. I look back down at Liz.

“NO! NO LIZ!! Don’t close your eyes! Look at me!”

“Who are you?”

“You don’t remember?”

“Why are you bothering her?! She’s human! She’s done nothing to you!”

“Because she means the world to you. And to destroy her, would destroy you.” What the hell are they TALKING ABOUT!!!!!!!!!!?????????? This is NOT Star Wars, this is not some sci-fi/action freak movie. THIS IS MY LIFE! And my best friend is dying! So listen, Darth Vader! You need to go!

“Max! She’s passing out!!!” I look over to see the image disappearing.

“Good luck…Zan. We’ll finish this later.” ZAN??? Who’s Zan? I see Max stand frozen for a second. Hell, I would too if some freaky demon possessed freak came up to me talking about he’s taking over the kingship and he hurt my sister. I woulda broken his balls off.

“MAX!” I notice now that I’m pretty impatient. Well, DUH! My best friend is BLEEDING to death in my arms!!! He runs over and is pushing me out of the way.

“Liz… Liz you have to look at me.” She squirms slightly and her eyes slowly open partly. Max rips open her uniform and I can see the blood all over. If this were a different occasion, Max would be thrilled to be looking at Liz’s bra. Unfortunately, this was NOT the time or place. He places his hand on her stomach and with a glow, I see the blood begin to fade in front of my eyes. No… no this isn’t happening. They laced your drink with some sick stuff. You’re on hallucinogens. You had a couple of spirits. You’re on some HEAVY CRACK! But THIS… this whole ordeal with Liz… this isn’t really happening.

“You’re ok. You’re alright now.” He breathes deeply and then gets up to run out. “I’m sorry about the doors…” He places his hand up and the glass comes flying back together. “Don’t tell anyone, please.” Liz sits up, her eyes wide in shock, her hair a mess. Well, isn’t that quite intimate. ALEX FOCUS! LIZ IS ALIVE! (Can you tell that I freak out in times like these. It's really kinda sad). I look over at Liz, unaware that my mouth is hanging open like an idiot.

“What just happened?” Liz has this weirdo dreamy look in her eyes.

“He just saved my life.”

posted on 28-Jul-2002 6:48:33 PM by roswellianprincess16
1-1-1

Just a little something I did when I was bored... hope you like it!

[ edited 2 time(s), last at 30-Jul-2002 3:00:04 PM ]
posted on 31-Jul-2002 12:52:06 PM by roswellianprincess16
Part 7:

“What are you saying?”

“Look… it just doesn’t make sense.”

“I know it seems impossible to understand, but try. It’s important that you trust me and that I can trust you.” I’m looking at Max and Isabel and I can see Isabel’s nervous hand putting the hair behind her ear. Michael is pacing back and forth and he’s making me dizzy. The words are still registering in my brain. But none of it really seems to be clicking correctly. This is what they said: Look, you may not believe this but we are aliens. We come from a different planet and we are not sure where that is. We have powers, like healing and fixing molecular structures. We don’t know who that man was, but we know that he knew us from our previous lives. So he must be from our planet. I heard: Blah, blah blah blah blah blah. Bluh blah blah bluh blah. Molecular structures… blah blah. Now don’t get me wrong. I’m TRYING to listen.

“I’m sorry to have to tell you like this.” I look up and see Max’s glare. I follow his eyes to Liz, who is sitting quietly in one of the couches in the Evans living room and seems to be in her own world.

“I know you don’t expect us to BELIEVE this!??” Maria jumps up from her seat and I go to grab her hand when Michael stands in front of her.

“Listen DeLuca, you say one word of this to anyone, and I swear I’ll zap you dead myself.”

“MICHAEL!” Isabel’s eyes widen at his comment and she looks absolutely horrified. Yea, not that I blame her. We’re freaked out as it is, and to know that they can zap us? Well… it doesn’t help, that’s for sure.

“WHAT!? I said this was a BAD idea! Why the hell did they have to know? Does it matter??”

“How would you explain that I had gotten shot and am now completely alive?”

“We’d have found a way.” Michael’s voice sounds really scary when he’s all angry and bitter. I see Liz slowly get up and make her way to the door.

“Liz… Liz please.” Max doesn’t even hesitate. He’s on his feet in seconds. And I… I’m stuck here not sure whether I’m awake or asleep. But if this is a dream… well it sure is vivid.

“Alex? Are you ok?”

“Am I ok? Sure, why wouldn’t I be? I mean… what’s the big deal. So you guys are like illegal aliens.”

“No Alex… we are JUST aliens.”

“Right.” I look at her confused and make my way to the door too. This is too much. I seriously have to stop hanging around with those weed heads from my music appreciation class.

“Wait Alex! I’ve wanted to tell you!” That’s when I stop dead in my tracks. If the whole fact that we have aliens living among us is not enough, well the fact that she wanted me to know is well… just a little TOO weird.

“Why?”

“Because I like you Alex. And because I wanted you to know me… for me.” I don’t think I’ve ever seen Isabel look more vulnerable. That completely open look in her eyes makes me see that she has feelings. She is a REAL person, not this untouchable being everyone makes her out to be. Sure, she’s only HALF a real person. But… the other half is a REAL alien. Ok… that’s just weird. WHAT THE HELL??!!! She’s an ALIEN!!!! Ok… I know I’m slow. It like just registered. How in God’s name do we have aliens living on our planet??

“That’s a load of sh*t! Come on Isabel. Admit it. You wouldn’t have told him, had Max not gone out of his way to screw your little secret!”

“It’s him going out of his way that killed your best friend, you ungrateful twit!”

“Did you just call me a twit?” Maria’s anger turns from Isabel to Michael and at that point… well things just get uglier.

“You are just soooo self-involved! You haven’t even BOTHERED to thank Max for putting his butt on the line and saving you guys!”

“I’ve been a little too busy FREAKING OUT!”

“That’s because you’re too damn full of yourself!!!”

“You know what Michael?! I don’t need you to tell me what YOU THINK! Ok!??? You’re not my psychiatrist and you sure as hell aren’t my friend so get OFF it!”

“Maria, he’s only saying…”

“Don’t you talk to me! Don’t you think I know what’s going on!?? Little perfect Miss Isabel Evans. The epitome of perfection. Everything has always gone so well for you and now you want pity because you’re a different species!???? Screw that! I don’t care what WORLD you’re from! All you’ve ever done is treat me and my friends like sh*t! Ok? And now… suddenly because Alex got you some expensive flowers you think, maybe I should thank the little dweeb. Well NO! Ok… Alex is not just gonna fall for that!? He’s been after you since freshman year! FRESHMAN YEAR! Bet you didn’t know that?!”

“Actually, I did. Because contrary to public opinion, I pay attention. I DO see things. I KNOW exactly what’s going on and when. I CHOOSE not to stress myself out about it. NOT to give myself early wrinkles. Ok? What was I going to do? Just go out with Alex without thinking about the repercussions? What if something went wrong? UNLIKE YOU… I do THINK before I act. So don’t tell me about not knowing sh*t Maria. I’m the wrong person to try and cut down.” The venom in her voice makes me twinge. Oh my God. Isabel and Maria in a cat fight? That should not excite me. But I’m a sick bastard.

“You have no idea what it’s like to have to spend your whole life hiding. NONE!”

“Yea? Shows how much you know.” Maria turns on her heels and heads out the door. What WAS that? What is GOING on? How is it that in a matter of days my life has completely been turned upside down?! I look over to the door and then back at Isabel. Her head is down sadly and Michael has his arm around her. I go over to her and look down into her eyes. Michael pulls away and seeing that I wanted to speak to her, makes his way out the door.

“I’m not exactly sure what to make of this. But I can tell you one thing. It doesn’t matter to me if you’re different… you could be purple with blue hair, actually, that would be kinda cute… but anyway. I’m always going to be here. I care about you. I just need you to be honest with me. To open up. You don’t have to hide anymore Isabel.” Her eyes look up at me, all watery and big, and she smiles. That beautiful, genuine smile that I’ve watched from afar for so long.

“Thank you. That means so much to me.” I smile and nod. That’s what I do best. Just smile and nod. Smile and nod. It’s a principle I live my life by. If you smile and nod enough, people begin to think you’re kinda dumb. Which is ok… cause then no one bothers you! See?? My logic is incredible, isn’t it?

“I have to…”

“Go ahead. Go talk to her.” I hug her tightly and run out the door in search of Maria. I go down the front steps and against the Jeep I see Max and Liz, his hands on her cheeks, his fingers in her hair, his eyes looking deeply into hers. Woah… Max Evans!!! Getting it on! Well… not literally but… not bad! I look at Liz and the look in her eyes surprises me. That’s a look of complete and utter adoration. It’s finally happened. Little Lizzie fell in love. Oh… how cute. Ok… not on to bigger things. I look down the street to the Jetta and the sight stops my breath. Michael Is leaning against Maria on the car and is obviously whispering some harsh words to her. She’s fighting back just as hard, and I can tell she’s losing her wit. That Michael just doesn’t get it, does he?

“Maria!”

“NOT NOW ALEX!” Ok… she’s beyond pissed. I keep walking towards the car and I hear their argument more clearly.

“You’re just too frickin’ scared to admit it!”

“PLEASE! Get your head our of you’re a**! NO MICHAEL! I don’t like you! OK?! I DON’T!”

“You want me and you’re too involved in chasing this hopeless dream with Alex to see it. Tell me it’s not true! TELL ME!”

“GET OUT OF MY FACE MICHAEL!” I see him grab her arms and feel myself tense. He better take his f**king hands off her. I don’t like the way he’s looking at her. And who the hell does he think he is??? Making assumptions as if he KNEW me! HOPELESS DREAM!!! I swear to God Michael… you are gonna get backslapped.

“Tell me you don’t feel a thing when you look at me! TELL ME MARIA! TELL ME AND I’LL F**K OFF!” I see her stall. Tell him Ria. Tell him he’s a self absorbed a**hole. Tell him that you hate his guts and that Alex is nothing like that! Tell him that you LOVE Alex! Ok… well maybe not. But… you get my drift. Ria?? Why aren’t you telling him?

“I CAN’T DO THIS MICHAEL!! I just… I can’t.” I see her break out in tears and he wraps his arms around her, and then pulls away slowly to put his lips on hers. I see her just stand there… just letting him kiss her. Then I see what I could never have believed otherwise. She kisses him back. I see her lips eat at his hungrily and I feel my heart break. What the…? What happened? Maria… you forgot to tell him!??? How could you forget!!??? Maria??? No… I won’t cry. You’re a big boy now Alex… there’s no room for crybabies here. DON’T CRY. I look back over at the house and feel my heart drop. It’s happening. I’m getting the woman I’ve wanted for almost four years, but because of that I’m losing the one woman I love most.

I walk slowly over to the front door and knock softly as I look back to catch a glimpse of Maria again. She’s still kissing him. I look down and swallow hard. No… I will not let this get to me! You knew it Alex! You knew you had no chance! So why did it feel like I finally did it? Like I’d finally won? I look over and see Max lean in close and kiss Liz… her eyes full of tears and awe and maybe even fear. I see his lips move… ‘I love you. I’ve always loved you.’ That I can attest to. Evans has been crazy over Liz for as long as I can remember. At least he gets the woman he’s meant to be with.

“Alex?” I turn to face the door and see Isabel. My eyes are wet with tears and I’m willing them not to fall. I see the change in her eyes, from concern to worry and then I lean in and do something I’d only dreamt about for years. I slowly kiss her. Not because it’s some crazy kissing spree. But because I need her… I need someone to kiss me and to tell me they care about me. I NEED THIS DAMMIT! I feel her relax under my touch and kiss me back, slowly, but surely. Then I heat it up, adding my passion and frustration. I pull her in, closing the door behind us. God Ria… how could you do this to me? DAMN YOU! How could you??? I kiss Isabel harder, and I feel her surprise as I deepen the kiss.

“I need you Isabel…” I need you. That’s all I can say. It’s all I can think. I NEED someone. ANYONE. But Isabel isn’t just anyone. I care about her. I DO. But I don’t LOVE her. Not yet. But maybe… maybe in time, I’ll learn to love her. Because the woman I love is gone. I guess it’s time to move on. The realization is so painful it hurts my chest. I’m alone. I wish I had my guitar. And a really big bottle of vodka. Not that I drink, but hey. Who knows? This seems like the making of one very good alcoholic. Yes… I can see myself on Jerry Springer now. Dumped by best friend he loved and taken in by alien lover as he slowly made his way to a life of drugs and alcohol. Frickin’ prick. Who does he think he is playing with people’s emotions like that???

“Alex… we have to stop.” Dammit. I figured that was coming. It’s too soon. I need more. I need it all now. Wow… I’m a real horn dog. Well… only cause my blood is pumping crazily. I’m pissed…what can I say?

“I know.” But I don’t stop, and she doesn’t pull away.

posted on 5-Aug-2002 7:29:43 PM by roswellianprincess16
Author's Note: I guess I should start off with a warning. STARGAZERS AND CANDIES... THIS MAY NOT BE THE CHAPTER FOR YOU!!!! PLEASE DO NOT READ IF YOU ARE GOING TO DISLIKE UC PAIRING! (Don't worry, your time will come. You can Read my other fics in the meantime! LoL... those are totally CC!!! And pretty darn good! :-)) That was a public service announcement! LoL... ok, anyway. Groupies: come right in. I've got the chapter that will make your day.

Part 8:

Have you ever just sat back and realized how pathetic you are? I mean, really… just looked up at your ceiling and contemplated why things were just so screwed up? Well, I have. Actually, I’ve done it so much that it’s affecting my daily habits. Yes, I am borderline insane. I haven’t slept in like 3 days. The recurring image of Maria willingly kissing the jackass/alien freak, otherwise known as Michael Guerin, has been permanently burned into my mind. My chest still hurts and I feel like an idiot. Maria has called me about four times. I play the last message again.

Alex… Alex please pick up the phone. PLEASE. I have to talk to you. I know you’re there. Alex! Come on… please. I saw you at school today. You totally avoided me. What was THAT all about? Liz said you were mad at me. Is that true? She’s been so… spacey lately, no pun intended. But ever since she and Max, well you know bonded, I can’t seem to shake the feeling that she’s in her own little world. No pun intended again. Alex I NEED someone to talk to. I NEED to talk to YOU. Don’t make me beg… God, I already am begging. Alex, I heard about something with Isabel and I need to ask you….

And that’s where that one ended. It’s amazing how that girl can fit so much into a two and a half minute recording. Each time she calls I can’t bear to pick it up. So I let the machine do it. I can’t talk to her. Not now anyway. I can imagine what you’re thinking. Wait, what about the whole ordeal with Isabel? God Alex… you are such an inconsiderate a**hole. Well, guess what? You need to get your FACTS straight buddy. I can explain what happened between Isabel and I in two words. It sucked. We were in Michael’s room making out and she reached for my shirt and I suddenly realized who I was and what I was doing. And I just couldn’t. I couldn’t let that happen. I care about Isabel and she deserves all of me. I couldn’t use her that way. So… here I am. Alone again. Waiting for the story to finally end. As the world spins around, it’s out of my hands. Don’t even try to understand. ???? Isn’t that a song? Ok… I think I’m losing my mind. But we stated that fact already, didn’t we? Yes… yes I think we did.

I begin to strum the chords on my guitar when I hear a knock on my window. It’s almost 9:30pm and I can’t for my life understand who’d be visiting my window at this hour. I carry my guitar with me, holding it close for protection. Wait, am I protecting myself or my baby? Who knows. All I know is that I’m trying not to get killed. I walk over slowly and swing the window open.

“Hey. I need to talk to you. Can I come in?” I look into the familiar blue eyes that are red with tears.

“Yea. Come on.” I put my guitar down and reach my hand out to help Maria in. Once she steadies herself I go and close the window and then motion for her to join me on my bed. I lay back down and she lies down next to me, wrapping herself in my quilt.

“You ok?”

“You didn’t return any of my calls.”

“Yea… I know. Sorry.”

“I needed to talk to you.”

“I know Ria… it’s just that I…”

“Did you sleep with her?” I don’t think I could’ve helped the way my eyebrows went up even if I had EXPECTED her to say something as crazy as that.

“Maria…?”
“Isabel. Did you sleep with her?” Oh God… the hysterics. You know, generally I can detect her moods through the Maria Filter. But today, well, I guess I’m just a little off.

“No.” Good job! Take control! No details that aren’t necessary! It isn’t her business anyway! “I couldn’t.” Sucker. You are such a frickin’ punk Whitman.

“Why Alex? Why would you even try?” I can see her eyes fill up with tears and now she’s working the guilt card. And she works it well, ladies and gentleman, because I feel like the biggest loser in the world.

“That’s not fair Maria.”

“What!?? You think it’s fair that I found out from Michael that you and Isabel practically got it on while I was RIGHT outside???!!!!!” Overreacting. It’s her biggest forte.

“Maria lower your voice.” At this point we’re sitting Indian style across from each other on the bed. She’s pissed and I am tired. Another sleepless night. Should I just take some Nyquil and give in to the evil drug of society? Perhaps. If it will drown out the beating of my temples.

“NO! No… I just. I can’t believe you would do that Alex. That’s soooo unlike you. You were angry. Michael told me…”

“You know what Ria? I don’t give a f**k about what Michael told you. Ok? Because I am so sick and tired of Michael Guerin’s phony a** mouth. Don’t you see what he’s doing!!??? He’s breaking us apart Maria. He’s doing the same exact thing ALL your other boyfriends have done, except he’s a lot smoother about it. He’s a controlling loser and I don’t like him. If you believe everything he says than I… I guess I just feel sorry for you. Because you should know me better than that. You’re the only person who knows me better than that, besides Liz.” I see her shoulders slump and she puts her face in her hands and then runs her hands through her hair. God… she does not look happy at all!

“I’m sorry. I just, I feel like you’re pulling away from me Alex! Like you don’t want to be around me. What did I do? What could I have done to get you mad at me? I mean, I’ve been trying to call you and you just act like I don’t exist!!!”

“OF COURSE! God Ria! I’m PISSED OK!? I saw you… I SAW YOU kissing him!! How the hell am I supposed to feel!? We’re just… we’re playing games and I can’t afford to do that right now. I need something STEADY. Something… less dangerous.” Oh, nice Whitman. Dangerous. Refer to a relationship as dangerous and you get the typical maybe-we-should-just-be-friends speech. It’s really annoying.

“Well you KISSED HER!”

“AFTER I SAW YOU KISS HIM!” Hello! Did we not just establish this fact????

“Alex, I’m sorry! Ok?! I’m SORRY. He kisses me and it’s like… it’s like I can’t pull away. Like he has this pull on me that I can’t explain. And I know it sounds stupid, because I hate him, but the fact that I hate him makes me really attracted to him.”

“FINE! Whatever. I don’t need to know that ok? Now you know I’m mad. You don’t have to call anymore. You should go home. I’ll call you when I’m ready to talk.” God, I hate being mad at Maria. I hate being mad period! I’m not a ‘mad’ kind of person. I’m ALEX WHITMAN! I’m the happy go lucky guy who’s friends with chicks. I’m the guy with the band that’s going nowhere! I’m the tall, lanky, skater boy/geek. I’m MR. ADORABLE! I DON’T GET MAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Ok… now that I’m over that little rant and rave moment.

“Alex, please don’t shut me out. Please. I need to talk to someone. I don’t know what to do.”

“Go with him! Isn’t that what you want?”

“In a way… I mean, I don’t know.”

“How can you not know?”

“Because I don’t FEEL much when I’m around him. Well, nothing except really… uh… you know…”

“Horny?”

“Umm… yea. Something like that. But that doesn’t mean I care about him! I don’t! And I know that I’m hurting someone I genuinely care about! That hurts me more than I could explain.”

“Don’t worry about me. I’ll get over it. I just want you to be happy.”

“I won’t be happy with Michael.”

“Then, what Maria? What do you want? Because, I just don’t understand you.” There. I said it. This woman is the epitome of complete and utter confusion. I never know what’s going on when she’s around. Not only because she sends my senses into a loop, but because, well she’s crazy and hyper and usually changes her mind a billion times before actually deciding on ANYTHING. I’m lost in my own thoughts when I feel her climb on top of me. I’m leaning up against the bedpost at this point, trying to make sense of the fact that she’s straddling me. No. No, this is not happening. This is another one of those crazy dreams I have when I’m lost in my own world of women. Where I’m cool and smooth Alex Whitman, who can get any chick and usually does. But Maria? On my bed? On my LAP!? NO! This is just a dream. It isn’t until she kisses me that I understand that this situation might be pretty real. Oh yes… VERY REAL. I feel her soft lips on mine, soft at first, then firmly pressing, demanding my attention. Ok Maria, I get it! I kiss her back with force, enough force to make my legs start to ache. Oh no… no no no. This is bad. I feel her tongue graze my lips and I know this is it. I won’t be able to deny her the pleasure of kissing me. Sure, that’s a little cocky, but hell. I have the right to be cocky! I open my mouth and I feel her sweet kiss take over.

This is just like our first kiss. Liz had a slumber party in the summer of eight grade, a sort of entering high school thing. Maria and I stayed over and pigged out on chips and dip and movies. Then Liz had fallen asleep, as she always does. That girl can’t stay up past like 9pm. Maria and I had just watched the last movie and then we got to talking. We spoke about everything that night. About how afraid we were to start high school, how we hoped we’d still be friends, how we were afraid of relationships we might have. That was the day I realized I was completely and utterly in love with her. When she said she wanted to be a singer. When she told me she would always be my friend. “Alex… I don’t ever want to stop being friends. Ever. I know I’m a pain and sometimes kinda stupid and silly, but I really care about you… AND Liz. Without you guys, I don’t know where I’d be. I mean, with Dad gone and Mom alone it’s hard for me. And I guess you guys have given me a family. So thank you…” I had put my finger to her lips and told her she was babbling. She had smiled and looked down bashfully, her long blonde hair falling over her face slowly. And I put it behind her ear and left my hand on her face. And she looked up at me and I moved in to kiss her. And the minute our lips touched I fell in love. And she kissed me hard, and we pushed the limit when we moved it up a notch. It wasn’t just a peck. It was our very first kiss together, and apart. We were bonded. And now, I feel her lips and it’s all too painfully familiar. Nothing will ever happen. We’ll just go back to being friends tomorrow. Just like we did after the party.

“Maria…” I have my arms wrapped around her lower back and she’s rocking on top of me to kiss me harder. This isn’t fair! I CAN’T DEAL WITH THIS SH*T! I’m gonna lose it! I’m a guy... ok? A nerdy guy, granted. But a guy, none the less. I can’t be expected to be numb! Sure, she’s my best friend. But she’s also a woman. A BEAUTIFUL woman. One that I know very well, inside and out. And I want her. More than I’ve ever wanted anyone.

“Alex…” Oh God. This isn’t happening. The way she said my name, all breathless and whispered. God, Ria. Don’t make this more complicated than it has to be.

“We can’t do this.” I pull away and look into her dark blue eyes. I hadn’t even noticed how our breathing had sped up. I’ve had WAYYY too many dreams that started this way. This is not healthy.

“Why not?” I look at her lips, red and swollen from my kiss and I can’t help but suppress the groan. Dammit! Women always have to be so f**king complicated!

“Because. We’re just going to make it harder on ourselves. It’ll never work Ria. You know it, I know it. I think we’ve always known it. Which is probably why we’ve wanted it so badly. But it can’t happen. It just can’t. I love you. And it’s pathetic and obsessive. I love you in a way that hurts me every time I even see you laughing with another guy, or walking with another guy, or kissing another guy. A guy that I know will just break your heart again. A guy like Michael Guerin. And I get scared for you. And for myself. Because I fear that the minute he hurts you… I may be forced to kill him.” I see her smile and I shake my head. You don’t get it, do you Ria? “I’m serious.” Her smile fades and she looks down at me, passion once again in her eyes.

“I love you.”

“What?” I must not be hearing right.

“I said I love you. Sure, Michael is… sexually attractive. But you… you are just everything I’ve ever wanted. You are… the love of my life. The sweet, gentle, funny man who stole my heart in eight grade. Who’s held it ever since.” Her words strike a chord in my stomach. If we both feel this way… why can’t it work? BECAUSE! This is a f**ked up world Alex! Because the good people do not deserve to be happy. Because you can’t always have what you want. So that’s it. I know how she feels and it’s in a sense worse than not knowing because now there’s nothing we can do about it.

“You should… say something.” I shake my head to clear my thoughts and look at her nervous eyes. I know what I should say. Hell, I know what I should do. I don’t have many options. I don’t have ANY options. I have to let her go. Max and I spoke and he told me… to get what you want you have to let it go. Let it find it’s way back to you. Let Maria know how you feel, let her think it over and make a decision. If it’s not meant to be, then there’s Isabel. I could learn to love Isabel. She’s a beautiful person, inside and out. She’s easy to get along with, she makes me laugh. She’s a little weird, granted. She’s not from around here. But … she’s safe. Max!?? MAX!!! Where are you ??? Where are you when I need you? I need help here! I need to be told that I can walk away from this. That I can stop myself from doing what’s running through my head. Because this could only make things worse. Because this could ruin us. It can have consequences that could make being even friends practically impossible. Or it could do the exact opposite. HELLO!!!!!!!! I NEED SOME GUIDANCE! Like, ASAP. PLEASE???? Ok, think. Think Alex. God, if you care about me at all… you’ll let us stay friends. No matter what. Now that this conscious issue is settled… I lean in and kiss her. I want to make this magical. I tease and tickle and bite and slowly move her down onto the opposite side of the bed. Now I’m in control. That must be the most dangerous thing in the world. Bad idea.

“Maria… I… I need to touch you.” Yes, I know. I’m an idiot. But she’s my friend more than anything else. I’m not gonna disrespect her! Damn! Be a gentleman! Yes ladies, cheer for me. I know that you can recognize a TRUE man when you see him. I see her eyes and feel my heart practically break with love. She looks so vulnerable, so open. She nods her head slowly and I reach down to undo her blouse. I kiss her lips and keep her busy, but I can feel her fingers trembling. Gentle Alex, gentle. You don’t want to just attack her! I mean, this is Maria. The girl you’ve fantasized about doing this with! It has to be perfect. Although, the counter at the Crashdown and her in her little uniform… well that was looking pretty good too. NO! Ok, shake it off. I feel her warm hands on my back and realize that my shirt is off. This is crazy. What if… what if I lose her? What if…?? God! SO MANY what-ifs!!!! I hear her chuckle and I look at her, a puzzled expression on my face.

“You been working out?”

“Shut up.” I smile and kiss her neck.

“Just saying… it seems you’re not so… lanky.” I bring my head up, a stunned expression on my face. LANKY!!!! Hell no. I was NEVER lanky! Skinny maybe… but lanky!!!

“I’m kidding!” I hear her laugh and I sit back, admiring her glow from my lamp light.

“What?”

“You’re beautiful.”

“Yea right…”

“You are. I’ve always known it. Always.” I could feel my adrenaline slowing down. Maybe this is for the best. Maybe this was not a good idea after all. It was just crazy, lustful passion. But there was nothing lustful about those kisses. That was pure, burning passion. Passion bred from something deeper… love.

“Do me a favor?”

“Anything.”

“Make love to me Alex Whitman.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ok, honestly ya'll. Did that totally suck??!!! I wasn't sure whether or not taking it there was a good idea!!! But we need some DRAMA! And this... well this is definitely drama! :-) Hope you likedit!



posted on 6-Aug-2002 4:06:53 PM by roswellianprincess16
HEY GUYS!!! Just a quick note!!! :-) If you like this fic, than PLEASE revive this old, worn and lonley thread gathering dust on the Fanfic Nominations Board!!!
Best Portrayal of Alex Whitman in a fanfic
Ok???!!! *happy* Ok, great!! I'm working on the next part!!!! Give me about 2 days! LoL... I know, I know! Thanks for the fb!

[ edited 2 time(s), last at 6-Aug-2002 4:09:40 PM ]
posted on 12-Aug-2002 1:59:01 PM by roswellianprincess16
Author's NOte: Hey all!!! Sorry it took me so long... just moved back home!!! YIPEE!!! So now I got a lot of free time on my hands. Now, we left off with a very... umm seductive line from Ms. DeLuca. Did it work? Well, let's see. ;-)

Part 9:

I can feel the heaviness of my lids begin to wear off. I've just had the most incredible dream in the whole world. I mean serioiusly... I have to take a cold shower. I dreamt that Maria came to my room and we were talking and next thing you know... I feel the hot sigh on my chest and my heart stops. This isn't real! THIS IS NOT REAL! But I can feel the heat in my body still trying to cool off and the throbbing in my legs. My body is still shaking. Oh my God. It's real! IT'S SO REAL! I open my eyes and shift softly when I feel her move under me. She's lying on my chest, her hair a soft mess, her arm wrapped around my waist. This is perhaps the best day of my whole entire pathetic existence. I can't even begin to explain how amazing and fantastic and just plain incredible she was. I look down and rub her hair softly. My God, just when I thought I couldn't love her more. I move back up against the bedstand and look down at her milky skin. Even touching her bare skin causes a reaction. Ok, ok calm down Alex. BREAHTE DUDE!!! I let out a loud sigh and hear her shift. Then her head looks up and I'm met with the most blue eyes I've ever seen. Eyes that I could easily get lost in.

"Morning." She smiles a soft exhausted smile and I smile back.

"Morning to you. How are you feeling?" I can't help the concern in my voice. I know it was my first time, but I hadn't found out until late last night that it had been her first time too.

"Perfect." I give her a sarcastic look and she laughs. "Ok, a little sore. But I feel fine. I swear. I love you so much Alex. I don't think I can say it in words." I lean down and kiss her lips.

"I think I know exactly how you feel." I look over at my alarm clock and sigh. Damn, no. Give me more time!!! She seems to know what I'm thinking because she sighs and holds me closer.

"We have to wake up for school in like an hour."

"Yea, I know."

"So I'll see you in a little while then?" She kisses me one last time and begins to make her way up and out of bed. It's almost humorous how she covers herself, not letting me see her naked... as if I would forget what she looked like last night. Those are images that will never leave my mind. She makes her way to my window, and by now I'm in my boxers.

"Maria?" She looks back from the window, her lips still slightly red and swollen, her cheeks bright pink, her hair a beautiful mess.

"Yea?"

"Does this mean we're together? I mean, when we're in school and stuff, 'cause I mean I don't know what this means to our relationship, and and and I just..." GOOD JOB IDIOT!!! Stutter and make yourself look like a little insecure twelve year old boy. You know what? You might as well strip naked, jump on the bed and dance the macarena. Ok, maybe not, but you know what I mean.

"Well, do you want to be with me?"

"Well duh Maria. I mean, I don't just go around sleeping with beautiful women and then wake up the next morning pretending it never happened. And if I did... man that'd be a great life." She throws a pillow at me and I laugh.

"Ok. So we'll just meet up at school." She stops for a second and then she turns around again. "You know Alex... we're going to have to tell Liz." I feel my heart stop. Oh... I hadn't thought of that. Oh no. What's Liz going to say? Is she going to yell at me? To try and beat me up?! I can't afford to get beat up again! Wow, this is really pathetic. I'm like really scared of Liz. I'm a MAN! I don't have to be scared of little LIzzie. But that girl's got a mean fist. I nod and Maria heads out. I smile to myself and throw my head back on my bed. This has been the best day ever. I close my eyes and wait for the alarm so that I can get ready for school.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ahhh... the smell of the morning dew. The beautiful, vibrant sun. The scent of tons of kids and cheap perfume in the halls of W. Roswell High. Yes. It is a beautiful day. I can't help the cheesy smile that's on my face. I even got to school early. Not that anyone would question it. I am a huge nerd. They'd probably think I'm here to work in the computer lab. Well... ladies and gentleman you are ALL WRONG!!! I am here to meet my girl! HA! MY GIRL! Wow, I feel so totally powerful right now. It's like an adrenaline rush. I'm walking by the Bio lab when I hear some familiar voices. I hear Isabel laugh softly and I feel my stomach tighten. Oh my God... Isabel. I totally forgot about Isabel! I really need to start taking some Ginkoba or Ginseng or something to improve my memory. I stop and lean against the wall and I hear another voice. A male voice that's too familiar for comfort. But a voice that suddenly sounds... different.

"So you told them?"

"I had to! I mean, how would I explain the attack and the stupid thing Max did!"

"Yea, that was pretty stupid of Max."

"Why? Because of what he did or because it was Liz Parker?"

"Whatever Isabel."

"Kyle... it was very big of you not to try and go after Liz once she broke up with you. To understand that Max liked her."

"I didn't do it for Max."

"Ok... well I just hope we can trust them."

"I know Liz won't tell. Under secrecy, Maria won't tell and if Alex likes you the way you think he does, than he won't either. I don't think you have anything to worry about." I can ehar the sarcasm in his voice. That is the Kyle Valenti I know. Then he goes back to that soft, caring tone that's so unlike him.

"If I would've found you I would've killed the bastard."

"How Kyle? Zap him?"

"Funny. I never thanked Max... for saving my life that day."

"I think he knows you're thankful. You know... whole Liz thing."

"Right." They sat in silence and then Kyle started humming.

"Shut up!" I could hear Isabel laugh, obviously some inside joke and then Kyle started doing something incredible. He laughed too.

"Isabel..."

"What?"

"Do you want Alex?"

"I don't know. I mean I like him... but I'm having a hard time deciding whether it's as more than just a really great friend. He's an incredible guy..." Awww Iz. I know, I am pretty awesome huh? "I'm just not sure if he's my kind of boyfriend."

"Maybe he isn't who you have in mind. Maybe you're got what you want right in front of you." I could feel the tension even out in the hallway. Then I turned to peek in and saw him leaning in to kiss her. As their lips touched, I smiled. Good for you Isabel. You earned it. I realize then that I care about her, and I want to be her friend, if nothing else. But I have the woman I love. And I have to find my best friend who's going to give me an earful. I walk over to Liz's locker and see her putting in some books and papers. I look at her and notice something different. I look down and see her boots, her skirt and her spaghetti string shirt. She looks adorable! Wait... who the f**k is she trying to look adorable for?! Ok, no! Max Evans!!!!??? He is using me! He is sooo using me to get to Liz! I'm going to have to have a conversation with him later on. I don't appreciate it! I walk up and wrap my arms around her waist.

"Hey sexy! Why are you so dressed up?"

"ALEX!!! STOP IT! LET GO!" I can hear her laugh. It's a nervous laugh. She's waiting for HIM. Well, we're just going to have to ruin that little party aren't we?

"Did you do all that makeup for me?!! Oh... I feel so special." Ouch!!! Geez Liz... you don't have to push sooooo hard!!!! That's when I see Maria walking down the hall. It's like everything is in slow motion. Duh... uh... I'm uh... losing all sense of coherence.... Ok. She walks up to me and kisses my lips. Holy moly! In public! Ok... I'm pathetic! I see Liz turn to smile and drops her books.

"What the hell was that!?" Did Liz just curse???!!! I've never ever heard Liz curse before!

"Hey Liz!"

"Don't you hey Liz me Maria! I'm not falling for that one! WHAT IS GOING ON!??" Ok, she's not happy. An unhappy Liz is a scary Liz.

"Well... uh Liz... Alex go ahead." Oh thanks Maria!

"Well see... we... Maria and I... we're kind of together now." I see her eyes remain on mine. Her face hasn't changed. She doesn't buy it.

"What brought this on?" She's angry. Oh man... oh man. Mental note: RUN!

"Umm... just stuff. You and Maria should talk. I'll see you later!" I give Maria a quick peck and kiss Liz's cheek. I run down the hall and right into Max Evans.

"Ahhh... just the person I wanted to talk to. You need to go out with Liz tonight... she's pissed. But first... we need to talk."
posted on 22-Aug-2002 12:55:46 PM by roswellianprincess16
Sorry it took so long, lol! Thanks to Kat and Phoebe who both restlessly tried to help me to get this crappy little chapter up! BETTER appreciate it! lol :-)

Part 10:



"So all this... in like three days?"



"Well, let's just say that things were going fast and I was lost. I didn't know what I wanted until last night."



"This is crazy Alex."



"I love her."



"I know. I mean, I know exactly how you feel. Being lost and unsure but knowing that if one thing would never change, it'd be the way you feel about her." I look at Evans and stop. Man, he's got it bad.



"You've loved Liz for a long time."



"Hm... yea." His little laugh is endearing, but I don't trust him. Ok, so I do trust him. He's like my only guy friend. But he's MAX EVANS! He's crazy about Liz! He's making her act all... I don't know like in LOVE! I DON'T LIKE IT!!!! She's LIZ! She's supposed to be logical, rational, and normal! She's acting all spontaneous and dressing sexy and wearing MAKEUP!!!! Makeup! Since when does Liz wear makeup??? Since NEVER! Or better put, since Max Evans.



"Ok... I'm gonna put this simply Max Evans. You hurt Liz... you lead Liz on to believe that you guys have something special and then decide to like... I don't know go off in some spaceship with your crew and I swear I'll hunt you down and beat you silly with my guitar." I hear him laugh and I can't help but join him. Oh yea. Alex Whitman, master of the universe. Special agent who kills people off with one swift swing of his mighty gee-tar. Could I be a bigger dork?



"I wouldn't worry too much about it. I can't... I can't explain what I feel for Liz. It's like, sometimes I can't control it. From the minute that I got off that school bus in third grade, I knew that she was special to me for some reason. Like, I needed to be with her. She's my soulmate Alex. I can't explain it, I just... I just know it."



"Ok... you don't have to explain it. I know exactly what you mean." I pat his back, a little too hard for comfort and he chokes out a laugh. "We're a couple of pathetic losers huh?"



"What!!? No! At least we have women we're interested in! Michael is the biggest loser of them all! The poor guy's all alone! He's all angry and brooding because you got Maria! Ha... it's pretty funny. Sad, yea, but funny." Good... punk! That's what he gets! ALEX!!! Tha'ts sooo mean! GO AWAY MARIA!!!! Geez... having a best friend conscience is NOT good! Alex, do you really think Michael deserves to be pathetic and alone? It DOESN'T MATTER LIZ!!!



"Alex?!"



"Sorry... just having a small conversation with the voices in my head."



"Right... um ok."



"Maybe we should... I don't know help him hook up with someone."



"Someone?"



"Yea, like a girl." DAMN YOU VOICES!!! YOU HAVE CURSED ME TO A LIFE OF SERVITUDE TO GOODNESS!!!!



"Ok... who'd you have in mind?"



"I don't know. I'm not good at playing matchmaker."



"Yea, neither am I... but I know someone who is. How about you ask Maria?"



"Oh yea, smart Max. Ask the girl that had a thing for him if she'd help me hook him up with someone else? NO! Not even."



"Fine then I'll ask Liz to ask Maria if she has any... friends."



"And maybe you can ask Isabel too."



"Ok. Hold on... how come I'm doing all the asking? Liz is going to think that I'm looking for a different girl!!"



"Highly doubt it... she's like crazy in love with you."



"Really?"



"Like you didn't know! Next thing you'll be telling me is you don't know about Isabel!" I laugh, but then I see his _expression. Holy sh*t! That's not a face I've seen on Max Evans.



"What ABOUT Isabel?" His voice had grown deeper and his eyes were narrowing. Oh man... oh man oh man oh man!!! I'm just craving to get SHOT today huh!????



"Uh... nothing!? Ha! I was just kidding around dude!"



"ALEX... WHAT ABOUT ISABEL!??"



"Max chill out... it's nothing."



"WHAT!?" WOAH! Evans is SCARY as all hell when he's yelling at someone! It's like his alien persona goes KAPOW! And suddenly BOOM! He zaps you into a cockroach! The bell rings and I sigh loudly. Phew! That was close!



"We'll talk about this later!" He looks over and sees Liz and his whole demeanor changes. What a punk. Maria comes up behind her and as they make their way to class she kisses my lips. But it's not just some kiss... it's one of THOSE kisses. It's heated and passionate and it's asking... no BEGGING for something.



"Let's go to class." She smiles and I feel my legs turn to mush and a small hot throb. NO!!!!



"Let's not." I kiss her back and she smiles.



"Class. Now." I feel her hands on my lower back and I smile as she looks up at me. God... I love this girl. I look over down the hallway when I see a girl. Is she new?! She's beautiful... her long red hair in thick curls, and even from a distance her green eyes seem to shine. She looks over at me and smiles and it hits me. THAT'S IT!!!! She's the girl! I look at Maria and smile. We'll hook her and Michael up! But ALEX!!! You haven't even spoken to her! What if she's got a boyfriend already!?? LITTLE VOICE... SHUT UP!!!!! I look back over and I see a small random moment. She reaches down on her shirt and seems to curse under her breath. And with a small glow, something that could have easily escaped anyone else's eyes, she fixes whatever was wrong with her shirt. And I practically pass out.



"What's wrong? Are you ok?" I look over at Maria, obviously wide eyed and freaked out because she looks worried. Holy sh*t! If this isn't fate... I don't know what is!!! They're two martians!!! I don't think I'm ever going to get used to this whole... Darth Vader meets Luke Skywalker crap.



"Fine. I'm fine. Let's uh... let's go to class." We pass Max and Liz at the door to Ms. Enderman's Biology class and I wave him down as unobviously as I can.



"Alex? What are you doing?"



"Huh!?? Uh, nothing. Nothing. Nothing babe."



"Babe? Liz? Everything ok?"



"I have no clue what is going on." Liz looks over confused at Max and he looks at me pretty confused too.



"We have to talk. Later. BADLY."



"Ok."



"Talk? About what?" I see Maria's honest eyes and I freak out. I don't want her to get involved with all the alien crap unless she has to.



"Just guy stuff."



"Guy stuff? Since when do you have guy stuff to talk about?"



"WHAT!?"



"Just saying, you never had guy stuff before...."



"YES I DID!!! I mean, it's not like I could tell you and Liz about my dreams or my little accidents..."



"WOAH! Ok... too much info Alex."



"Oh yea... you were in most of them...."

posted on 30-Aug-2002 4:40:02 PM by roswellianprincess16
Hey Guys!

Sorry its taking so long... unfortunately... writers block has come and taken permanent residence in my head. I need INSPIRATION. I PROMISE I'll keep trying. I'll be back soon.
:-)
Selena
posted on 7-Sep-2002 7:18:42 PM by roswellianprincess16
Part 11:


"What if I told you... it was all meant to be. Would you believe me, would you agree. It's almost that feeling that we've met before. So tell me that you don't think I'm crazy, when I tell you love is here and now." It's hard not to stare as I look at her, staring into her mirror as she applies her second coat of lipgloss and then grabs her hair brush to belt out the next verse.

"Everything changes, but beauty remaiiiiinnnnnnsssss. Something so te-eh-ender, I can't explaaaaiiin. Well I may be dreaming, but 'til I awaaaake, can we make this dream laaaast forever? And I cherish all the love we share!" Yea, I know it's a slow song. And I know that it should be touching and heart felt. Don't get me wrong, the song is beautiful. And well, Maria's voice is incredible. But... well it's just humorous to watch her put on her shoes and have to stop in between to grab the brush and sing the chorus!!! I mean, it's just too funny!

"Uh hum. Am I interrupting?"

"ALEX!" I don't think I've ever seen her stumble faster as I hear the click of the radio and the tape goes off.

"I must say, I feel jealous. How come you don't look at me the way you look into the mirror when you sing like that???" OUCH! I feel her fingers pinch my arm and I push her onto the bed.

"What was that!!! THAT HURT!" I tickle her hard and I feel her kick me. Stars... stars... stars. I've never seen stars before. Ouch. Wow... I can't breathe. I'm dying. This is the end. Goodbye cruel world.

"ALEX!!! Oh my GOD!!! I'm sorry!!! I'm... ha, ha... sorry! Are you, ha, ha, ok?"

"OK!??? AM I OK!??? You kicked me!!!!!! And it wasn't just a kick! You practically turned me into a soprano!!!! Careful with the jewels Ria!!!" Geez... what am I supposed to have babies with????

"Alex, I've been thinking. We should start a band. You and I."

"A group." My throat is going dry. That's a bad sign.

"Yea, a group. I could be a lead singer and you could play the guitar! It'd be perfect!"

"Perfect." I need to sit up.

"YES! I mean, imagine! And if someone discovers us and we become famous! And we move to New York and buy a condo in Manhattan!!!! ALEX!!! It's a dream come true!"

"Right. True." This is bad. Very bad.

"What do you think?!" That's the question I was dreading.

"Umm... well, I mean, I love your voice. But Ria, you know that I already have a band and me and the guys you know, we're like close. I can't just ditch them. They're like family."

"And I'm not!??" Oh no, come on! Not the puppy dog eyes! "I thought I was your best friend. The one who meant the most to you. Your soulmate." I feel her climb on top of me and smile. Her lips softly kiss mine and I can't help but sigh.

"Ria... I don't think...."

"Then don't. Just don't think." Her lips touch mine again and I'm taken to my little happy place in my mind. It's funny how I lose track of time when she kisses me. Because what seems like seconds later, I hear a loud whine.

"Euuuuuwwwwwww. Can you guys NOT do that??!!! Geez..." Oh wait, it was seconds later.

"Liz." I hear Maria laugh and pull of. I feel my cheeks heat up, and fast. Dammit Liz!!!!! This is really embarrassing.

"Hi Liz." I manage to choke out as she pushes me off the bed and makes her way onto it. I see her huge smile and my suspicion gets the best of me.

"Ok, what's with the smirk?"

"I just came from Max's house."

"Oh?"

"Yea." Ok, I don't like that little sigh that she just did. What's with her?? SNAP OUT OF IT LIZ!!!!

"Oh my God, dish girl." I see Maria sit up in official girl talk position (indian style, if you didn't know).

"Well, he called me and asked me to come over and talk, and we did about a ton of things. About what he... is and about how that could change our relationship and what not and so forth. And do you know what he said to me?? He said, 'I'm unsure of a lot of things, but I'm sure about one thing. You are the only security I've ever had. Knowing that I could watch you and love you from afar. But now I don't have to watch. Now I can tell you. I love you Liz Parker'!!!! Can you believe it!!!!??? Ahhh, God Maria I can't even explain where I'm at right now." Love?? LOVE??? Max Evans declared his love for Lizzie! Already!!!! HELLO!!! Am I the only person missing something!!???

"I know what you mean. I was just trying to convince Alex to start a band and runaway with me. He's being a little difficult." I look over at Maria sarcastically and she smiles. And for a second it's like I have to stop and think. I can't even understand how I lived everyday looking at this woman and could never tell her that I never lived before her love. I mean, I never NEEDED anyone to feel alive, but I wasn't living before she told me she loved me. OK, I KNOW IT'S CORNY!!! SHUT UP!!!! Geez... that kind of realization is making me really hungry. Then it hits me!

"Maria, a pen, quick!"

"What??"

"A pen! I need a pen!"

"Ok... ok chill out! Here grab this." I take the pen and the small piece of journal paper Ria hands me and as I write the first few words I stop. A pink pen. Figures.

I wonder how I ever made it through a day
How did I settle for a world in shades of gray
When you go in circles, all the ceiling looks the same
And you don't know how,
And I looked into your eyes,
Where the road stretched out in front of me and I realized

I never lived before your love
I never felt before your love
I never NEEDED anyone to make me feel alive
But then again, I wasn't really living.
I never lived, before your love.


"Alex... what are you doing???" Maria leans over to see but I won't let her. This is it! It's like magical. The words I was looking to put together to tell her how I feel and they just come to me like a bolt of lightning. And sure a minute ago they were maximumly corny, but corny words and music make HITS!!! And I'm going to be famous when Maria sings these words dedicated to HER!!!! Ahhh... can life get any better? Ok, now I sound like Liz.

"NOTHING!!! Nothing. Ummm... I'll be back."

"ALEX!!! What are you hiding!!!" I fell Liz pounce on my back as I get up to run to the kitchen and Maria just sits back and laughs.

"Will you just go in there and gossip about the love of your life while I get us some ice cream??"

"Jealous?"

"A little."

"Why?!"

"Because... you're Liz, you know. You're my little Liz and I just... I mean I like Max, but it's hard to see you get involved so deeply and I worry about your feelings. You know you mean the world to me. If he hurts you... well it won't be pretty. I may be forced to kick his a**."

"Ha! I love you too Alex!" I feel her small arms around my neck and the soft kiss on my cheek. Then she makes her way back to the room and I hear some whispers and laughs. Yup, that's me, Mr. Adorable, the guy with two best girlfriends. Did I ever tell you what a wonderful life I have? I serve the ice cream, mmmm... Rocky Road. I stuff the lyrics in my pocket and get the tray with the bowls. As I walk back over to the room I hear a snip of the conversation.

"Oh, and there's this new girl, real pretty red head, who just asked for a job at the Crashdown. Her name is... Sam, I think. Yea, that's it Samantha. She was so cute and so friendly, I just couldn't say no. I think you're going to like her." She's working at the Crashdown!!! That's it!!! The new girl is working at the Crashdown!!! Man, this was most definitely my day.

"Here go ladies. Anybody hungry? Maybe we should head to the Crashdown later. Maria you work tonight?"

"Yea, Liz and I gotta work the 7:30 dinner shift."

"Ok, well I gotta go. Meet you there?"

"Sure." I kiss Maria softly on the lips and hear Liz's 'yuuuuccckkkk.' I turn and kiss her forehead.

"BYE!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It had only taken me about an hour to write the whole song. I must say, I'm pretty excited about this one!!!! I folded the paper I had rewritten it on and opened Maria's locker at the Crashdown. I softly placed the red rose and the lyrics down and smiled. Then I took out the small tape and put it in next to it. Writing the music had taken me all afternoon. But, I finally got it perfect. Just the way I wanted it. Now all I wanted to hear was Maria sing the sweet words. I smile as I close the locker and jump a bit at the figure at the door.

"That's really sweet."

"Well, she deserves so much more. I do what I can."

"Where have you been all my life? Hi, Sam."

"Hey, Alex."

"Ahhh, the infamous Alex. I've heard wonderful things about you. From Liz of course. I'm sure Maria will agree."

"Yea, most likely, I hope." We laugh and I realize the school lighting had done her no justice. This girl was a beauty.

"So you're new right?"

"Yup, all the way from Chicago. I like it here though, it's cozy. Feels like home."

"Yea, Roswell is definitely one in a million. Well, it was nice meeting you."

"Same here." I go out into the dining area and realize this could work out perfectly. With Michael working at the Crashdown... well, who could resist this girl?? Besides me of course. I'm already taken. But if not.... well, that's not the point ALEX!!! I see Max sitting at his booth, probably waiting for Liz.

"Hey Maxie boy. Got a few minutes."

"Hey Alex. Umm... sure, sit."

"I hear you and Liz spent the afternoon together, is that true?"

"Yea, she came to my house."

"Oh, and did you guys have a deep conversation?"

"Well, actually Alex, that's kind of private."

"ANSWER THE QUESTION!"

"What is up with you?!"

"Did you tell her you loved her? It's like your fifth date Max!! Isn't it a little early for soulful confessions?"

"Who told you that?"

"Don't forget, I'm one of the girls."

"I wouldn't go around saying that out loud."

"Just watch it buddy. If you're trying to get in Liz's pants, forget it!! It's NOT happening?"

"What happened to the trust I thought we'd developed??"

"Don't be fooled. My loyalty goes to Liz before it will go to you." I realize at this point that I'm leaning forward and practically police questioning the poor kid. Oh man, I'm gonna hear about this one from Liz later.

"Hey, I understand that. I wouldn't hurt her. I DO love her Alex." I don't even think I feel myself just slump back in my seat.

"Yea, I think the worse part about that, is that I know." He smiles and pats my shoulder. Then, I hear Michael.

"Mike's working today?"

"Yea. He's cranky about it, but he's doing it."

"Good, cause here's a plan. You know that new waitress...."



* Ok guys I know it took forever and I"M SORRY!!!!! I hope you enjoy the new part!!! It's not much, but I'm getting back in the groove of things. The songs are not my own... they belong to the people from American Idol I guess... I don't know. I just like them and thought they fit! ENJOY GUYS!!! Let me know if you still want to read on!

[ edited 1 time(s), last at 7-Sep-2002 7:20:44 PM ]
posted on 25-Sep-2002 2:52:00 PM by roswellianprincess16
Hey guys!!!! Check for a new part at the end of the week!!!! It's getting buffered! lol... HEY... quick thing.
If you love this fic... vote for me in the finals!!! Remember... I'm up in the finals for Best Alex in a Fic!!!
Thanks sooo much for reading!!! Look out for the next part!!! :-)
~Selena
posted on 29-Sep-2002 8:14:52 PM by roswellianprincess16
HEY GUYS!!!!!!! Well, here goes a new part... just like I promised! I truly hope you enjoy it!!! I know it's short... but, I'm working on an ending to this thing! Here goes nothing...

Part 12 (wait is that right?! ohhh... thats sad!):

"Hey Michael."

"What do you want Maxwell?"

"Well, umm that kind of hello is not exactly what I'd call friendly."

"Yea, well I ain't exactly what you'd consider friendly. Where's Isabel? I haven't seen her around much lately."

"She's been spending a lot of time at home. Besides, since she started dating Kyle, she's completely lost her interest in all sorts of her 'normal' activities. It's really starting to get annoying."

"Yea, I can imagine."

"Double alien smoothie, Vanilla and an order of Saturn rings."

"Who the hell are you?"

"MICHAEL! Geez... excuse him. Don't be rude. This is Sam. Samantha, this is the cook, Michael." I watch the less than perfect introduction and have to laugh. Poor Michael has absolutely no people skills. It's so sad. He lives a dark and depressing lifestyle all alone in that little mind of his. Oh wait, that's me. Sorry about that people, no need for alarm. The brain has just temporarily left the building. I see Max's face and laugh even harder. If there is anyone who gets freaked out more by that kind of behavior, it's Max. So maybe that wasn't the best choice of friend... genius.

"Nice to meet you." I see Sam smile, that bright happy person smile. Hmm... that's a smile only Maria gives! HEY!!! You stole my girlfriend's smile! B**ch! Ahhh!!! Did I just say that!!!! *slaps hands over mouth!* Oh my gosh... I'm sooo sorry. That was not nice. What is wrong with you Whitman??? Girlfriend... Maria... ahhh. Ok... calm yourself down now boy. Down. Oh yea, I'd make a great house pet. I look back over and realize that an actual conversation is being held.

"Actually I hate this job. It sucks. Probably not as bad as my life though. I hate school and this job and most people." Great job Mike! You dopehead.

"I know how you feel. It's rare that I make any friends anywhere I go. They all think I'm a freak. I'm not like them, and it pisses them off. Well f**k them, you know??? I could care less. I like being alone."

"You don't seem all that different." Yea, well you don't seem all that obnoxious either.

"Oh I am. I'm actually psychic." I hear Michael's snicker and Max's eyes narrow. He knows. HE GETS IT!!!!

"Yea sure... and I'm Elvis."

"Oh, is that why you're wearing your hair all flappy like that?"

"My hair is NOT flappy!"

"I thought it was a fashion statement. And I am psychic. In about 45 seconds Liz and Maria will walk through the backdoor and will be laughing about a story Liz is telling Maria... that has to do with Alex. Maria will open her locker to take out her uniform and see a flower and a poem. She will yelp and come running out to see Alex, sitting in the booth and then scream in ecstasy at the gift." I drop my mouth at how cleverly she used what she saw me do and have to give the girl kudos. Yes, I just said kudos. You wanna sue me? Well, do ya punk? Just then I hear the back door and Maria's laughter. I hear the yelp and before I know it, her arms are wrapped tightly around my neck. Ok, this is weird. TOO WEIRD.

"THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!" I feel Maria's kiss and all thoughts fade. Ahh... yes, I am the man, baby.

"I can't believe you did this!!" She pulls away and runs to Liz who is making an icky face. "Look! Read this! This is like... beautiful! Oh my God! Don't go anywhere Alex!!!" I look over at Sam and she's looking at a shocked Max and Michael.

"Any questions?"

"How'd you know that?"

"I know everything. Turn down the fire, you're gonna burn the burgers. Table twelve is still waiting." I see Sam spin on her heels and walk out. Oh yes, this is going to be interesting. I look over at Michael and see his raised eyebrow. Is that INTEREST I SEE???? I sure hope so! I look at Max... but the look on his face is different. It's like nothing I've seen before. It's just plain scary. (Are we getting the picture here?)

"Max?"

"I don't trust her."

"What??!! I thought you liked her?"

"She's dangerous."

"Because she's psychic?"

"Because she can do things... and we don't know who that person was who attacked Isabel. It could be Sam... dressed all up to fool us."

"She is hot though..." OH!! Did I just say that!!! NOOOOO!!!! Oh man... that was NOT good.

"Oh yea..." DID HE JUST SAY THAT!!??? MAX!!! I am ashamed!!!! Ok... it's not that melodramatic, but I thought I'd liven it up a bit ok?

"ALEX!!!! Did you meet Sam?? She promised she wouldn't try to steal you from me... although.... well, it seems that she's got an interest in bad boys." I see Maria look over at Michael who is looking at Sam. Hmm... girls pick up quick on these things don't they.

"Did you hear it?"

"NO! Come on, let's go to Liz's room and listen. I can't believe you did this!" I feel her grab my arm and drag me upstairs. Alone. To Liz's bedroom. This could be quite an experience.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Hoped you guys liked it!!! :-) Thanks for the great support!
~Sel
posted on 25-Oct-2002 10:04:09 PM by roswellianprincess16
AUTHOR'S NOTE: DRUM ROLL Guess who's BAAACKKKK??!!!! Oh yea, it's just me! LoL... sorry it took me so long to get the new part up... BUT! Finally, I know where I'm headed with this!!! :-) So here ya go!!!! Thanks for the BUMPs and reminders! I LISTENED!

Part 13:

I know I'm staring at it. I know that I can see and that it's almost incredibly unreal. But it is real. And that's what I can't quite explain yet. A gig. Not just anywhere... at the BluHouse Cafe in Santa Fe. One of the most popular spots in New Mexico for up and coming acts. All because of Maria. Should I feel bad for never adding her to the band? Maybe. Of course, I would've probably been decked out in a bright silver tuxedo from a thrift shop playing "Mmmbop." Don't get me wrong. I LOVE Maria to death. And she is a fabulous singer. But sometimes... she's a little... what's the word... bossy?

"Alex? What are you doing?"

"Huh? Nothing! Nothing... I'm doing nothing. Well, I'm sitting here listening to you, but besides that, nothing."

"You didn't hear a WORD I said!!!!! This is IMPORTANT!!!! Do you want to do well at this gig or not?! I mean, this is big time! You have to look the part!" That's when I begin to tune out again. Ria's got nice lips. They look great when they're all red and puffy from me kissing her. Maybe I should kiss her now. So she can shut up. Seriously, I think I'm getting a headache. Either that or the voices in my head are yelling at me. Can't figure out which one so don't yell at me either way, ok?

"Are you LISTENING??!!!"

"YES! YES RIA!!! I have been listening to EVERY word you've said." COUGH::liar::COUGH!

"Ok. I'm just so excited for us and I want this to be perfect and I just think this is a big deal and I totally just... I'm singing the song you wrote for me on Saturday!" I'm nodding to everything she's saying. I can hear her. I can see her lips moving. Huh? Wait... what?? The song??

"The song? You mean... you mean THE song?" She smiles and nods and my reaction.

"Wow... I don't... I don't even know what to say!"

"I love you would be nice."

"I adore you."

"That's even better." This is perfection. Having Maria lie in my arms as I kiss her and we dwell on a gig. It's just... magic. Nothing this perfect could...

"Maria!" Figures.

"Oh! I forgot! I was meeting Sam this afternoon! We're going shopping."

"You're leaving me here? To go shopping with Sam?"

"I'm sorry babe... I forgot to tell you sooner. I was so involved with getting the clothes right and telling you about the gig and the song and I just... it slipped my mind." Maria walks over to the door of her room and swings it open to reveal Samantha. Her hair is curly and messy and her nose ring is glistening. Her hair is now dark black, making her skin look even darker.

"Hey Sam. You look nice." I see Maria's look. Oh great... foot in mouth. "Doesn't Maria look fabulous today? I love the way that jean skirt looks on her."

"Hey Alex. Yea it looks awesome. Ria, ready?"

"Just about." So strange. These two girls are so alike, yet so different. I look at Samantha, who changes hair color more than I change my underwear (don't get any ideas) and Maria who is comfortable being a blonde... of any shade. Sam who is a bit punked out with her nose ring and her black rimmed eyeglasses and Maria who loves to be dolled up and sexy. But they both are insanely loud, love music and love to shop. Maria even sang along as Sam played the guitar. Yes! She plays guitar!!! Not better than me of course! But, either way. I get snapped back to reality by a ringing of a cell phone.

"Yea.

- No. I'm going shopping now. But I'll be home in like an hour... why?

- Does it matter?

- Yea I would. I've wanted to for a while now.

- I can pay for myself. Don't me obnoxious.

- Yea, yea. Later." I look at Sam in confusion. That was funny.

"So may I ask?"

"No." Ummm... well that was blunt. She coulda atleast pretended...

"Alex don't me nosy." Yes Mom, I mean Maria.

"Well, you ladies have fun. I'll see you later." I walk out to the car with them and kiss Maria goodbye. I wave them off and pick up my cellphone as it rings.

"Are they gone yet?"

"Yup. So where to?" I look over and see the Jeep headed towards me. I hang up the phone and jump in as it stops right in front.

"What about Santa Fe?"

"Sounds good. So... how are things going with you and Liz?"

"I asked her to Homecoming."

"YOU DID!??? She didn't tell me that! Nice! What'd she say? Besides: YES, YES and I'll kiss your beautiful feet too!"

"That she'd give me a blow job." WHAT!!!!!!!!!!??????? "Just kidding Alex." He hits my shoulder and I practically choke on the breath I was holding.

"Don't EVER EVER EVER do that again. EVER. Ok?!!!!"

"Ha!!! Yea, ok. So she said yea. I practically cried waiting for her answer... seems she had to think about it."

"No, she was just trying not to scream like an immature little groupie."

"Oh! Good to know." We laugh and I see the sign. Thank You For Visiting Roswell! Come Back Soon.

"So how long?"

"I don't know, maybe an hour."

"This is crazy."

"I know. But what better night than Homecoming night? I mean, it's only about two weeks away."

"Can you believe it? This year is like flying by. I don't know... I was thinking we should wait til prom."

"That's not a bad idea. But I mean, why not get a head start?" Max looks over at me and smiles. He and Liz are perfect for each other, and it's almost strange how close they've gotten so soon. Three months and the two have been... practically inseperable. There's never been anyone to make Liz so happy. I never believed in soulmates... until Max and Liz fell in love. Well and I met Maria of course! Phew... that one was close.

"You actually gonna go through with it."

"Yea." He doesn't have to explain for me to understand. "You?"

"I can't see my mind changing. It's about as perfect as it's gonna get." We sit in silence for a while and then Max starts laughing.

"Michael said he might ask Sam to Homecoming just cause he doesn't want her to feel left out."

"ARE YOU SERIOUS!?? Ha! What a sucker! That's hilarious."

"That's what I said. I was like... sure Michael. You know you want her. He's gonna ask her tonight over dinner."

"Ahh... the big time. Well, let's hope it goes well for them." And for us... I think to myself. This year is going to be a changing experience for all of us.
posted on 8-Nov-2002 3:41:45 PM by roswellianprincess16
Hey NewYorker18, it's thanks to people like you (and everyone else bumping on this board and reading my fic... Magnus, etc.) that I wrote the new part and am updating! Otherwise, I'd be incredibly lazy about it. SO thank you! And here goes the new part!!!

Part 14:

"Are you almost ready now?!"

"Will you stop!! Rushing me is not going to get me to go any faster! Besides... don't you want me to look absolutely perfect!?"

"You already look absolutely perfect. To me... you ARE perfect." I pause for effect. Making your way to a woman's heart is not easy... but once you get the hang of it, it's like clockwork.

"Oh see Alex? Now I'm going to have to actually hurry because you're going to make me feel bad. You suck." This I know. I look down at my watch. Great, we're already about ten minutes late. I hear the door and head to open it.

"Hey Alex. What's going on? Here, I brought the corsages. Are the girls ready yet?"

"That would be a negative. That's a spiffy suit. If worse comes to worse you can be my date." Oh yea, me and Max at a dance... together. That could be... weird.

"LIZ! Your sugar poo is here!"

"I'm almost done!"

"What are they doing, turning into someone else?"

"Who knows with women."

"I heard that!"

"MARIA!!!" That whole conversation went by really fast. That's pretty funny. Hey, it kind of reminds me of this time when I... oh sorry. Sidetracking.

"WHAT ALEX!"

"We're already like half an hour late! I wouldn't be surprised if they already named King and Queen!"

"Liar! We're only like ten minutes late! And we're done." They open the door to Maria's room and for a second I have to hold my breath. That dress should be illegal. Those curves are reminescent of a James Bond movie. That color... that silvery blue. My God....

"You look... stunning." Thank you Max!

"You both do. I mean, you really outdid yourselves. I feel underdressed and I'm in a tux." I give her a soft kiss and smell the soft watermelon. "You smell good too."

"Oh yea Alex, real poetic." I hear Max and Liz laugh. At me? Huh? Did I miss something? Shoot... forget it. I am under the DeLuca spell and I doubt I'll be ok all night.

"Let's go, we should get there early if we're gonna leave early." I look over and see Max with his forehead on Liz's. The way they look at each other. There's no doubt in my mind that he loves her. Hmm... how come Maria doesn't look at me like that?

"Ria... how come you never look at me like that?" Well, that was blunt. Great job.

"How come you won't tell me what our surprise is."

"Because if I told you it wouldn't be a surprise. So don't change the subject."

"I'm not changing the subject. And I do look at you that way... only I do it when you're not looking." Ha, ha. Hilarious Maria. Really. We make our way outside to the limo waiting. Woah, Max really went all out.

Once inside the gym we barely recognize the place. I love dances. It's almost like stepping into a different dimension, one that's full of passion and romance. This one, is even better. A Midsummer Night's Dream. Shakespeare was one smart dude. Fairies, magic love potions, true love. Can you beat that? Romantic notions for a guy (I know)... but honestly, having Maria with me this time makes it a different experience. Without getting all mushy, it'd be difficult to describe how she makes me feel and even if I tried, I may not be able to put it into words. We spot Michael and Sam over by the pictures area... she's obviously trying to force him to take a meaningful picture. He, of course, is insistently refusing. After a while I hear the music slow down and I spot Isabel and Kyle on the dance floor. The look in her eyes is one I saw just hours before on Max and Liz. Finally, she's met her match. To think, just months ago, I had been lusting over Isabel Evans as if it'd kill me. I'd never known I had love in front of me the whole time. I look over and spot Maria, genuine laughter covering her face as she talks to Liz. I look over at Max and he nods. It's time to start. I reach my hand out to Maria.

"Dance with me?" I see her dark blue eyes stare up into mine in what seems to be startled confusion.

"I thought you didn't like to dance?"

"I'd love to dance with YOU." I see the smile slowly creep on her face and we follow Max and Liz who are already making their way to the dance floor. I grab her close to me, and feel her arms around my neck. We dance for a while in silence as the twinkle lights hanging from the ceiling suddenly go on.

"Have I told you how much I love you?" I feel her shock as she pulls away from my shoulder and looks up at me. The smile on her face is priceless. I don't think I'm ever going to forget the way she looks tonight.

"It's really unnerving you know. Looking at you... so beautiful and sparkling. Looking like one of the very fairies who belongs in these magical woods. And it drives me crazy that I wasted all these years."

"You never wasted anything. I've always loved you, I just never knew it."

"I've always loved YOU. But I wouldn't let myself see it. I was too scared that you could never feel the same."

"So where do we go from here?"

"Wherever you want to." I kiss her lips softly, enjoying the taste that's purely Maria. The song ends and I look down at my watch. 10:45pm. Time to go.

"Alex." I look over at Max and nod. I can tell by the girls' faces that they're excited. I look back before walking out the door and can't find Michael. Ha! Who's he trying to fool? Dude is like hooked on Sam. We jump into the limo and begin the drive.

"Come on tell us!"

"Noooooo. You have to wait and see. Did you have fun tonight?"

"My feet are killing me. Liz... what are you doing? Is that champagne?" I can't help but laugh. Liz drinking? That's like Liz getting a tattoo. Or Liz robbing a convenience store. It's IMPOSSIBLE. The limo begins to slow down and the driver lowers the seperator window a bit.

"We're here sir."

"Thanks so much Tony."

"No problem."

"AH!!! I'm so excited!" I smile at Max and we open the door. The cold breeze of the night makes its way into the limo and the girls shiver in unison. We open up a small trunk that was against the door and pull out the wrapped blankets and hot chocolate in the thermos. We step out and in the darkness of the night all of the lights that make up Roswell shine like dots from far away. It's the highest point in the city. And it's on private property. If you're wondering how we pulled it off. Max and I are both very broke right now... and Mr. Wright, the man who owns the land, he's probably counting his money.

"Oh my God...."

"This is incredible." We lay down the blankets and make ourselves comfortable.

"Alex..." I look over at Maria, a satisfied smile covering my face.

"Hm?"

"I love you."

[ edited 1 time(s), last at 8-Nov-2002 3:42:45 PM ]
posted on 25-Nov-2002 7:07:16 AM by roswellianprincess16
A/N: I HEARD YOU ALL CALLING SO I CAME!!! :-) Sorry it took so long. I was on vacation! But I'm back with a new chapter! Thanks for the BUMPs guys! Keep me on my feet!

Part 15:

"I'm soooo tired!" I look over and see Maria sitting next to me at our lab table. She's practically passing out.

"What time did you go to bed?"

"Late."

"What time is late?"

"Like 3am."

"Well, who's fault is that?"

"STOP IT! You sound like my mother."

"But I am your mother." I pull off that spooky British accent from The Others and I feel her practically break my arm.

"ALEX! You know how much I hated that movie!" That's quite an understatement. She not only cut off the circulation to my fingers, she also called me and demanded I stay on the phone until she fell asleep. I tried not to laugh, but failed miserably. So she stopped speaking to me for like three days. It took my whole pay check, a bouquet of roses and a long, pleading apology for her to give in. She still gets really sore about it.

"Ok, ok. I'm just kidding. What were you doing anyway?"

"I CAN'T tell you! Remember?" Remember. One of the worst words in the world. Why? Because I DON'T remember.

"Uhhh... yea sure."

"You forgot?"

"No!"

"YES YOU DID!" Her eyes are practically cursing me out. Only because her mouth can't. Thank God for school policy.

"Ms. DeLuca and Mr. Whitman, is there something you'd like to share with the class?" We look up at Ms. Keenan and shake our heads no. Great. I don't need a detention on my record so close to college. It just wouldn't look good. And YES, I am WORRIED about college. I'm a nerd... or did we forget?

"I can't believe you forgot!" I can tell by her hushed whisper that she's pissed. Great. If it's not one thing it's another. What... what did I forget? Anniversary? No.... Birthday? No.... Party? No.... AHH!!! WHAT!???? I look over at the calendar on the wall and my eye falls on the boxes of this week. It's the twelfth. What the heck am I missing????

"Maria... I didn't forget, I swear." Think fast Whitman. Think fast! Having her pissed is not on my to do list for today.

"Yes, you did. Don't lie." I go to say something else when I hear the door and see Max and Liz walk in. Well... it's only been fifteen minutes since class started.

"Mr. Evans. Ms. Parker. Glad you could join us. Where have you been?" Oh man, she is one unhappy puppy. Usually, when Ms. Keenan crosses her arms and pouts, you're screwed. I know this from experience. I won't go into detail. It's too painful.

"Guidance office."

"Nurse."

"We went to the nurse and then to guidance." I could see Liz nervously twirling her beaded bracelet. Oh Lizzie... you are in deep waters.

"Really? And it took you fifteen minutes to get to class?"

"Well, Ms. Keenan, Liz was feeling ill today after gym and so I walked her to the nurse to make sure she took a quick nap. She was so dizzy and the nurse decided she should head home." I look at Max, his eyes so honest and innocent and want to laugh. No way! She is totally gonna buy that!

"Yea. But then I figured... it's almost the end of the day, I might as well stay."

"So we gathered our things and headed here when Mr. Johnson called us into his office and decided to talk to Liz about her interview for Harvard. I went in with her and he gave me some pointers as well. I mean, we should be receiving our admission notices soon and we've been insanely nervous."

"Either way, here's the pass." I see Liz hand Ms. Keenan the small pass and Ms. Keenan simply nods, allowing them to take their seat. Once they're sitting down I lean forward and tug on Liz's hair.

"That's a load of crap. Where were you?"

"At Mr. Johnson's office...."

"Bull."

"Mr. Whitman!" I look up and make contact with Ms. Keenan. The look on her face says it all. I'll just shut up now.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I hear the bell and realize that Maria has yet to speak to me. Great. COME ON ALEX THINK!

"So what do you have planned for Valentine's Day?" AH! THAT'S IT!!! How could I forget that? Maria is so touchy about holidays!

"One second."

"Forgot huh?"

"Shut up Max." I run behind Maria and Liz who have now walked ahead of us.

"MARIA!"

"Liz, will you tell him I'm not speaking to him?"

"She's not speaking to you."

"Maria, come on please. I didn't forget. I just wanted it to be a surprise. I know how much you love surprises. I don't want to ruin it by telling you!" I could see her slowly turn her face towards me and I smile. Aha! I have her attention!

"Tell him that I want to know exactly what he means."

"She wants to know exactly what..."

"Liz... I get it. Stop." Liz shrugs and turns at her locker.

"I have this big thing planned and I can't tell you because it would ruin it big time. I just want you to know that regardless I love you and I would never forget something that means so much to you." Please, please let that work!

"Really?" Finally, her eyes meet mine and I smile. Phew! That was close. Hurricane DeLuca has been reported as flying away to another country! Thank God.

"Really." I see her eyes light up and for a second I feel almost guilty. ALMOST. It's not that I WON'T do anything. It's just a matter of finding out WHAT it is I'm going to blow her away with. At this point... I have no clue. I see Max and Liz catch up and I turn to them in relief. I can see Max's laughing eyes. I give him a glare to signify that I have reached steady waters.

"So... where were you two today?"

"We went out for lunch?"

"WHAT? Ok... Max Evans, you are a bad influence on my little Lizzie. I don't want you encouraging her to skip school to hang out in trashy diners off the highway. You will make sure that you get her to EVERY class, and ON TIME."

"Alex!" I could see Liz laughing as she pushes my arm. "You sound just like Dad!"

"Yea well, I spent almost ten years listening to him yell at me that I couldn't sleep in your room. He gave me the birds and the bees talk before mine did!"

"Ha! I remember that! Your face turned bright red!"

"Shut up! It did not!" I grab Maria closer and place my forehead on hers.

"It did too."

"Well, only because I'd been thinking about it. And then you walked in the room and a visual sent this heated flame all over my body."

"WOAH! Ok... too much information. I'll leave now." Glad they can take a hint. I see Max grab Liz's hand as they head to the courtyard.

"So what do you have planned for me?"

"The best Valentine's Day gift you can ever imagine and more." And finally... my head is beginning to roll with ideas. Who knows? I might just be able to pull this off.
posted on 28-Nov-2002 10:58:37 PM by roswellianprincess16
A/N: Hey NEWYORKER18, have fun! See ya in December!!! So yea, poor Alex forgot V-day! How sad is that??? So here's what he does... to make up for it. IN a BIG way.

Part 16:

"Is it ready?" Oh God, PLEASE let it be ready. I don't have much time and this is the BIG night. I look around and smile. It doesn't look half bad. I look over at Max as he sets up the last of the equipment.

"Ok, we're officially closed." I watch as Liz spins on her heels excitedly. See, she thinks she knows what the huge surprise is. Truth of the matter is, we only told her the half-truth. Because if she knew the whole truth, it would ruin half of the surprise. You following me? Great. Now, Max has cleverly planned it so Maria is in the dark, and Liz is getting her kicks out of thinking she knows more than Maria. It's quite the spectacle.

"How's the lighting over there?"

"Well... it's as good as it's gonna get here."

"That's fine. I think the mood is right." I watch as Max looks around at the lights. I can't be sure, but it seems he's got something else planned.

"Hey, sorry I'm late." I look back from the corner of the room and smile when I catch sight of Kyle.

"As always... it's fine. You don't surprise me anymore dude." I pick up the long extension cord and throw it at him.

"Liz, why don't you go start getting ready. I'll order us pizza or something."

"Great!" She smiles, one of the biggest smiles I've ever seen and runs upstairs. Just as we hear the door slam we open the back door for Michael.

"You got it?"

"Did you doubt me? Come on people." We take the several trays of food and place them on the three or four covered tables. I look over at Kyle and point him in the direction of the small stage we built in the corner of the Crashdown. The place is actually pretty big, when there are not too many tables in our way.

"Kyle, we need to make sure all the amps are properly connected. I have all the instruments set up. The microphones just need to be plugged. What time are they coming?"

"Well, Isabel is due here in about an hour."

"Serena said she'd be here soon... that can be... anywhere between half an hour to an hour."

"I'm expecting Maria in an hour... maybe longer."

"Liz is upstairs. That might be a problem." We all stop and look around at the stuff we've done. Not bad. Not bad at all.

"I think we're safe. I'll stay and keep watch over Liz. You guys go get ready." I smirk at Max, knowing exactly why he wanted to stay with Liz and we all head out, hoping for the best.

"You think we can pull this off?" I look over at Kyle's nervous face and laugh. He worries too much.

"Did you practice?"

"Yea."

"So you should be fine."

"I hope I don't completely screw this up."

"Don't stress yourself out. It's not that big a deal." Yup. Just like Michael to be the big dimwit. Not surprisingly of course.

"Whatever. You think they know?" I look at the two men standing by Kyle's car.

"Nah. No way. They're just hoping they get laid." Strike two Michael.

"I'm not going to comment. Meet back here in half an hour."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

7:45pm. At least the sun went down. The darkness will definitely help the mood. I look back at the guys all decked out in suits and laugh. We look so stupid.

"Shut up, this was your frickin' idea."

"Yea, and I should've gotten you a brown leather suit... so you could look like a pimp." Roll your eyes and walk away. It's the best thing to do Whitman. Why waste your time and energy and the man with the IQ of a rock? Why?

"I think they're coming!"

"Max! Take your turn...." We stand in complete silence, in the darkness of the Crashdown as we hear the front door bells go off. Lights... I hear a buzz, almost like energy, and suddenly there are blue and green and red gel lights flooding the Crashdown, along with some black lights. I catch the girls' faces and can't help my smile. They look STUNNED. We hear some footsteps near the back and suddenly the back door flies open, exposing a shocked Liz. We are TOO good. We make our way to the stage and as soon as all the girls gather, they stare at us in stunned silence.

"Please ladies... have a seat." Oh yea, I'm using my sexy Barry Manilow voice that is about three times higher than it should be.

"What's going on? I thought we were going to dinner?" I look over at Maria, in her beautiful black strapless dress and her hair loose.

"We aren't going out... we're staying in." Max snaps and another set of lights go on, exposing a banquet table, that looks like something out of a movie. This is really weird. My life IS like a movie!

"Oh my God." Isabel makes her way to the table and picks up one of the champagne glasses that has been set upside down. I look around and catch the pleased faces. They're all smiling! Perfect.

"This is Roswell's FIRST Valentine's Day, private celebration. We are proud to present to you, your dinner, a buffet of pastas, salads, and desserts. For your entertainment, we have Kyle Valenti on the saxophone, Michael Guerin on the drums, Max Evans on keyboard, and yours truly... as your neighborhood guitar man." The laughs of course, are expected, but not their total attention. The minute my hand touches the guitar, there is total silence, and the music completely fills the room. The looks of total adoration on behalf of the women does not go unnoticed by any of us, on the contrary, it is because of this effect they have on us that we have resorted to this corny display of affection. But it is in fact, Valentine's Day, and sometimes corniness is necessary. We play a number we'd rehearsed and get a standing ovation for our sad effort. At this point, we're all just laughing and joking, so it's not like it really matters.

"Ok, time to eat!" Of course, Michael, Kyle, and Max all run offstage. Within minutes, they're all sitting with their dates and Maria looks up at me in question.

"I have one more thing for you." I pull out a big teddybear and a red rose.

"Happy Valentine's Day." Then I feel like I'm the king of the world. Not only does Maria completely attack me with kisses, but all the girls are 'oohhing and aahhing'!!! I am THE MAN!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"I'm stuffed. That food was awesome." Of course, we'll never admit none of us made it. Instead, I just smile and look over at where Kyle and Isabel are dancing and where Liz and Max are laughing and where Michael and Serena are making out.

"This couldn't have been more perfect. Thank you Alex." I don't want to get emotional. I WON'T! I REFUSE! Then of course, she looks into my eyes and I kiss her, my feelings about as bad as when I was thirteen and thought I'd die if she didn't go out with me.

"You deserve it." I look at Max and he smiles and nods as he heads to the backroom with Liz. It's time. Glancing at Maria and then back over at the stage, I take her hand and drag her up there.

"Sing for me. There's something I'd like to play for you."

"What?! Are you serious! I haven't even practiced!"

"Fine, I'll sing for you." Ok Betsy, my dearest and most finest guitar... don't let me down. Ahem!

"You know it only breaks my heart, to see you standing in the dark. Ohhh, oohhh, waiting there for me, to come back. I'm too afraid to show, what's coming over you, like it's coming over me, crashing like a tidal wave, that drags me out to sea, and I wanna be with you, if you wanna be with me, I'm crashing like a tidal wave, that I don't wanna be. Stranded... stranded... stranded... stranded." I play a few loose chords and then let go of the strings. I watch Maria's laughing eyes steady and focus on me.

"That's why I want you, Maria DeLuca to marry me. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow... but soon. I wanna be with you, if you wanna be with me. And I'm sorry I can't sing." Wow, how unromantic. Great job Whitman, loser. Stop it! LOSER! STOP IT!!! I thought you stupid voices and GONE and left me ALONE! Moments of intense pressure like this suck. Control your breathing... breathe in, breathe out. AH!!! I feel like I'm having a baby! FOCUS! I look down and see Maria crying, her hand on her face, and see Isabel and Serena staring in shock. Come on Ria... say something. Don't leave me hanging here babe.

"I LOVE YOU!!!!!" I feel her jump up and right on to me. Woah! Easy with Betsy! I push my guitar out of the way and hug her tightly.

"So is that a yes?"

"That's a hell yes. You're stuck with me!"

"MARIA!"

"LIZ!"

"I'M GETTING MARRIED!" They both start laughing and suddenly the girls are gathered in a circle and headed to the back room.

"Well... that went well."

"Yea, I'd say so." Max smiling like a cheesy idiot. An image that will be hard to remove from my mind.

"Suckers. Letting them suck you in like that."

"Michael... shut up." Kyle laughs and passes us each a soda. "Congratulations... and good luck."

"Tsk... yea. You're gonna need it."