posted on 9-Mar-2002 10:25:07 PM by sunrise102 | Title: Pacifica
Author: Sunrise102
Category: M/L
Rating: PG all the way to NC-17 (maybe, if I get that far)
Disclaimer: I own nothing Roswell related, but I do own the new character(s) that may show up
Summary: AU. Liz shows up in Pacifica, California with a past and many secrets. I know this summary sucks big, but I don’t wanna give away too much.
Author’s note: This is my second attempt at fanfic, my first story is shelved for the time being. I need some encouragement in the form of feedback to keep going. Please.
It’s kinda short, but I’m testing the waters.
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The thunder was loud. That old belief that said that thunder was the noise made my angry gods sounded very plausible at the moment.
Liz walked by the lonely, dark road hampered by so much weight, it made it difficult to walk in the pouring rain. The bus dropped her off about two and half miles back more than two hours ago, but it was taking her longer to reach her destination since she was carrying a heavy backpack on her shoulders, a precious bundle was strapped to her waist, and she was dragging two heavy duffel bags by her hands.
CRASH!
The bolt of lightning hit very close. Too close. She hoped she would get there soon, it was cold, and getting sick was not an option at the moment. She sincerely hoped that she could finally settle in one place for longer than two weeks at a time. She was tired of running. She wanted to have a life again, she wanted to relax and not be afraid, she wanted to stop looking over her shoulder, she wanted to keep her promise to… well, she wanted a lot, maybe too much. You didn’t always get what you wanted.
Welcome to Pacifica
Population: 4,500
Finally. She made it. She had memorized the map to her destination since she couldn’t hold one in her hands. Pacifica. Tranquility, peace. She certainly hoped so. She had taken a risk at picking a place with such a small population. Small towns tended to pick out newcomers and gossip and if she wanted to blend in she should have gone to a big city like New York or Los Angeles. But she’d already tried that and well… that didn’t turn out as well as she’d hoped. Maybe she was going about it all wrong. But something called to her when Pacifica was chosen. When the darn landed on the little dot, she thought about scraping the idea and picking again, but it was just a feeling she got that told her to take the chance.
So she did and here she was. Passing the welcoming sign and crossing across the old fashioned stone bridge.
“Ok,” she said.
“Here we go, let’s hope this is the lucky spot.” She looked up at the dark and stormy sky and offered a quick prayer.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
After walking for about half an hour she saw the first house. It was a big house, very pretty. It looked very homey and like one of those lake log cabins. Only it was much bigger. About three stories high and probably several rooms wide. It was almost mansion like. It probably was. There were so many trees around. Surrounding the road and behind the house and beyond. She liked the view. There was a mountain pretty close in the distance with lots of trees on it. It was like something out of a storybook or a painting.
As she got closer to the house, Liz could see a small wooden sign on the front yard.
Grandma Claudia’s Bed & Breakfast
Your home away from home
Yes! A place to stay. Thank heavens. She was running out of energy and this seemed like as good a place to stay as any.
She trudged onto the driveway, which was made out of gravel and went up the steps to the front door.
She dropped the duffel bags and closed her hands into fists and opened them back up a few times to stretch her fingers. Since the patio had a roof over it, she took off her hood and opened her raincoat to give the chance to breathe. She looked around to see if anybody was around or had followed her. She was still highly paranoid and would take no unnecessary chances. Seeing no one, she put her finger to the doorbell and pushed two times. A minute later, she heard footsteps coming towards the door. The door opened and this elderly lady came into view and smiled.
“Yes? How may I help you?”
TBC??????
Should I continue? Please leave feedback and let me know. If I do continue I have a rough outline in head for the next 3 or so parts, so let me know if I should put them down on paper.
Roxy
[ edited 13time(s), last at 18-Dec-2002 12:38:42 AM ]
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posted on 1-Apr-2002 3:41:16 AM by sunrise102 | Part 2
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“Yes? How may I help you?”
“Good evening. Um, yes, do you have room available that I could…” Liz said softly while shivering
“Of course dear! Oh my goodness, come in. Where are my manners, you’re completely soaked. You’re gonna catch a terrible cold.” The lady interrupted, while grabbing Liz’s arm and pulling her into the house.
“Oh! But my bags…”
“Don’t worry about them, I’ll get them. In the meantime, I want you to go into the parlor and warm up by the fire. That’s a good girl.” She shooed Liz into the parlor while she pulled the two bags that were sitting on the patio and left them by the door. Then she went into the parlor and saw the young woman, still practically a girl in her opinion, right in front of the fire warming her hands. Meanwhile she went right to the counter that was by the window and got two mugs out and filled them with tea from a pot.
“Here is some tea if you like.” She said. Liz turned to her and smiled warmly.
“Thank you. Do you have any sugar to go with that?” She asked.
“With tea?” She asked mildly surprised.
“Yeah, extra please.” Liz said. “I know it’s a little weird, my best friend always teased me about it. She said that was another tooth would rot because of my love for sweets.” Liz told her, smiling wistfully.
“Well, that’s alright. Everyone has their own dietary quirks. Some of my grandkids got some doozies. Here you go. Oh!” she exclaimed as she noticed the tiny bundle that was strapped to Liz’s front. Liz looked down and saw that the baby was still asleep despite having just braved the elements with her.
“Oh, yeah… umm, is there a place where I can change her? She might have gotten a little wet despite being underneath my raincoat.” Liz asked as she gently started to pull her out of the little carrier contraption without waking her. She was still sound asleep, something Liz was infinitely grateful for. The poor thing was probably more tired than her of all the traveling. If things went well, then they might stay put here for a while. She looked up at the lady who hadn’t said anything after she noticed the baby. She was smiling wistfully at the baby.
“She’s beautiful.” She whispered, as if not wanting to make too much noise and wake her up.
“She is isn’t she?” Liz smiled in return and looked down at the bundle in her arms. “Thank you.” She added quickly.
“What’s her name?” The lady asked, not taking her eyes off the baby.
“Samantha, Sammy for short.” She answered. “She’s three and a half months old.” She looked up at the lady and added, “I’m Liz by the way.”
“Oh, I’m sorry. Where are my manners? I’m Claudia Schaefer. I own this place. You can call me Grandma Claudia. I insist that everyone who’s younger than me call me that.” She said with a twinkle. “I’m like the town matriarch, ‘Grandma Claudia’ is like my unofficial title.” She smiled at Liz as she came towards her and put her arm around her. “Come, I’ll take you to your room.” Grandma Claudia led Liz down the hall to another wing on the main floor.
She opened the door at the very end of the hall to reveal a beautifully decorated alcove-like miniature living room containing a fireplace on the right side with a loveseat in front of it and a chair on one side, facing away from the door. On the other side of the loveseat was a set of French doors that lead to a small balcony. The doors were covered by some lovely cream-colored lace curtains, there were a few paintings on the wall, and the doorway leading to the actual bedroom was shaped like a big arc and you could see most of the bedroom from the main doorway.
In the bedroom the bed was the main centerpiece and it was lovely, it was made of mahogany with a cream comforter with pale green vines and leaves all over it. Two little pale green throw pillows were on top. Two matching mahogany bedside tables were on either side of the bed with two tiny lams resting on top. To the left of the bed was a closet and next to the left bedside table was another door that Liz assumed was the bathroom. As she stepped through the arced doorway onto the very soft green carpet, a contrast to the hardwood floor of the sitting area, she noticed a window seat to the right of the bed with another throw pillow on it. The window was covered by a set of green curtains.
But perhaps what surprised Liz the most was what she saw a few feet away from the window seat. Up against the wall was a crib, with the little musical carousel thingy above it. It was made up of stars, moons, planets, and rockets.
“This room is so beautiful.” Liz said in awe. She felt so at home in it. Like this is where she belonged.
“Oh well, thank you.” Grandma Claudia responded with a smile, happy that Liz liked the room. This was her favorite room of the house. She only used it for special guests and Liz was definitely special. She felt this special bond with her, even though she had just met her and didn’t really know her at all, she hoped that she would get the opportunity to do just that. “You go ahead and get settled in while I go and get your suitcases and then we’ll talk. You can put your daughter in the crib once you’re done.”
Liz immediately looked up at the mention of ‘daughter’ and when she saw Grandma Claudia she relaxed. She didn’t know, it was ok. “Right, I’m just gonna go ahead and change her.” She said.
While Grandma Claudia left the room she put Sammy on the bed and took off her backpack and took out a fresh diaper and some wipes and started to strip her of the top layers of clothes so she could change her diaper. While she changed her she looked at the sleeping face. Sammy had a head full of dark hair, she had a full face with chubby rosy cheeks, her eyes were closed and her dark and long lashes rested on the smooth pale skin, she had a cute little button nose, and very pink lips. She was such a beautiful baby. She looked so much like… but oh well. No sense dwelling on the past, it was the present. At least she could be grateful that she looked like her, people were always commenting on that. There were less questions she had to answer that way.
After she finished changing her, she left her in her underclothes and put her in the crib. She was covering her with a blanket when Grandma Claudia came back in with the two duffel bags. She set them on the floor by the closet and looked up at Liz.
“I brought the tea, we can have it in the sitting room while the little angel sleeps.” She said as she smiled at Liz. Both women went and sat down on the loveseat while Grandma Claudia handed Liz her mug.
“I really want to thank you for giving us room to stay in.” Liz told Grandma Claudia
“Don’t mention it, you couldn’t very well be out in that horrible rain.” She answered. “Besides, you can keep me company. Usually the heights of tourism is winter and summer, and with winter ending and spring coming, it get pretty empty here. You can keep me company for however long you stay.”
They stayed up another hour talking. Grandma Claudia didn’t broach any personal topics, she sensed Liz would close off immediately. Instead, she would let her settle in and when she felt more at ease, she was sure Liz would trust her to open up. She got the feeling that Liz was very lonely and in need of friendship. So that’s what she would provide for her. As soon as she got more settled in and made sure that she would stay awhile, she would take her into town to introduce her to her precious ‘grandkids’.
After she bid Grandma Claudia good-night, Liz took a very quick hot shower and changed into a pair of warm pj’s and looked in at Sammy one last time before turning out the lights and getting under the covers.
Before closing her eyes, she offers a quick prayer, “Please protect Sammy, you’re her guarding angel now.”
TBC???
Sorry it’s taken so long for an update. Didn’t mean to make you wait so long, but the truth is that when I posted the first part, it was a really busy time for me, but I just couldn’t help it, it was an itch and I had to scratch it. LOL. Then I had midterms, and spring break and I used it to just take a break, from everything. But now I’m back.
A couple of things: first, thanx to all who left me feedback. It feeds my soul . Second, this is AU, no aliens or anything. And Thirdly, I know what some of you might be thinking with the revelation in this part, but just remember that things arent what they seem and that Im a HUGE dreamer. Ok? Thats all Im gonna say. Just be patient.
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posted on 2-Apr-2002 2:23:49 PM by sunrise102 |
I don't think I'm gonna continue with the story. I don't think many people are liking it. You guys give me your opinions and let me know if I should stop or not. I really hate to leave things unfinished, which is why I don't do it very often, but I need to know if anyone is even reading it. So please let me know.
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posted on 3-Apr-2002 2:56:31 PM by sunrise102 |
Hey guys! Um, based on your fb I guess I can continue this story. lol. I didn't mean to sound like I was whining, sorry. Actually what I was gonna do is shelve the story and start on another one I got a really good idea for, but I can put that idea on hold for awhile longer. As to your questions, you'll just have to wait and see. I'm really busy today and tomorrow so have very little time to write. But I'll give myself a deadline. No later than Sunday nite. Maybe earlier if I can manage it.
Thanx guys.
Roxy
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posted on 11-Apr-2002 6:38:12 PM by sunrise102 | Part 3
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The next morning Liz woke to a beautiful day with sunshine streaming through the windows. She sat up and looked toward the crib and noticed that Sammy was already awake. She got up quietly and walked to the crib and looked down.
“Slurrphhhhh,” Sammy was gurgling and blowing raspberries at the little mobile. She was grabbing her feet and putting them in her mouth while laughing.
Liz smiled. She felt immense relief, she’d seen how hard it was on the baby always moving from place to place. This was the first time she had seen her happy and acting the way a baby should. It was almost as if Sammy was worrying about things right along with Liz and she now sensed that they were gonna be ok in this place.
“Hey angelface,” She whispered as she crept up closer and looked down at her. Liz was rewarded with a big smile and gave one back in return.
“Morning sleepyhead;” She said as she picked her out of the crib and she laid her on the bad so she could change her diaper. “Look at you, sleeping through the night, I bet first baby your age to do that huh? It probably won’t happen again for a long while yet, but I’m glad you did. Both of us needed some sleep.” Liz continued talking to Sammy as she changed her, all the meanwhile Sammy would look at Liz with her big round eyes and giving her a toothless smile and gurgling her answers.
“Ok, you’re all done and you’re gonna go back to the crib so I can change,” Liz carried her back and put her in the crib with her binky and turned on the mobile. Then she went to one of the duffels and took out a pair of jeans, clean socks, and a long-sleeve button down gray shirt. After she changed, she went to the bathroom and cleaned herself up. When she came out she plucked Sammy out the crib and left the room.
“How about some breakfast? Let’s go make you a bottle.” Liz made her way down the hall where she thought the kitchen might me and when she walked through a door she saw Grandma Claudia cooking up a storm. All sorts of good smells entered Liz’s nostrils and made her realize how long it had been since she’d had a real home-cooked meal.
“Good morning,” She said.
“Good morning Liz, did you sleep well?” Grandma Claudia beamed at the young girl and the baby she was carrying. It had been a long time since she’d had to make breakfast for someone other than paying guests staying at the house.
“I slept fine, thank you,” She replied. “Is there anything I can do to help?”
“No, don’t worry, breakfast is pretty much done. I was just going to go see if you were awake.” Grandma Claudia told her as she began preparing the plates and setting the table.
“Please let me help, after all the trouble I’ve put you through it’s the least I can do.” Liz insisted. Grandma Claudia paused and looked at her.
“Alright, tell you what, I take the baby while you fix her breakfast and the coffee. Is that ok?” She told Liz.
“Deal,” Liz passed Sammy to Grandma Claudia. “But I have to warn you that Sammy isn’t really used to strangers.” She warned her as she passed her the baby.
“That’s ok, I’m sure it’ll be ok. I just love babies,” Grandma Claudia told Liz as she began rocking Sammy and playing with her. Liz watched on in amazement as Sammy took to Grandma Claudia very quickly. Sammy didn’t spend much time with people. Liz’s own fault, she admitted. She wanted to keep her safe and the only way she knew how was by trusting no one. Something she had no intention of changing drastically. She’d always had good instincts, like a sixth sense almost. If she felt even the slightest bit uncomfortable, she always kept her guard up. Here she felt safe and until her instincts told her otherwise, she would remain here and try to give Sammy a home. She owed it, it was the least she could do.
Since Grandma Claudia was taking care of Sammy Liz prepared her a bottle with the stuff she got out of one of the duffels. After she finished she went over to where Grandma Claudia sat and offered the bottle to Sammy.
“Don’t you breastfeed her?” Grandma Claudia asked Liz as she took the bottle from her and kept feeding the baby.
“What?” Liz startled. “Oh, ummm no,” she answered. “It’s kinda hard what with traveling and stuff…”
“It’s ok, I didn’t mean to criticize,” She didn’t want to make Liz uncomfortable, “lots of moms don’t breastfeed.”
“No, it’s not that, it’s just, well… never mind,” Liz fumbled to explain. How was she to explain why she didn’t breastfeed Sammy, apart from the fact that she couldn’t. No one else had ever come out and asked. Maybe she’d explain someday. Just not now.
They dropped the subject and ate breakfast and talked about the weather, what it was normally around this time, except this day it was a little warmer than usual. Then Grandma Claudia asked Liz about going into town.
“I need to go pick up some supplies and spend time with friends. I would also like for you to meet my grandkids. They’re about your age and are always keeping me on my toes. They’re so much fun to be around, they make me feel young. How about it? If you don’t want to, that’s fine, you can stay here and relax. I’m sure you’re still tired.” Grandma told her a while later as she began to get ready to leave. She could sense Liz’s fear about something and didn’t want to push, but she also didn’t want her to become a hermit.
“Umm, well I would like to go. It might be good for Sammy to get out and get some fresh air. Plus I need to buy some stuff. Is there anyplace I can buy a stroller?” Liz asked, she loved this place already from what she’d seen of it and if they were gonna end up staying awhile she might as well get a tour of it and know where things are.
“Great!” Grandma Claudia smiled at her, “how about we leave in 20 minutes?” and they went to get ready .
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The day was unusually warm, but no one was complaining. Max certainly had no complaints about the nice weather, it meant he could spent time outside while he worked. ‘Who wants to spend all their time inside with a computer in front of them when there’s nice weather when you can spend all your time outside with your laptop when there’s nice weather?’ That was just what Max was asking himself when his best friend walked outside on the patio of the café.
“Hey Mike,” He asked as he slapped hands with him in greeting. “What’s up?”
“Max. Nothing much, just hungry. Can we order now or do we really need to wait?” He asked impatiently.
“It would be common courtesy to wait for the others you know. Your girlfriend for one, do you really want to face Hurricane Deluca? And I really don’t want to hear Isabel’s lectures on manners.”
“I guess we might as well wait and save ourselves the trouble. So, how’s your book coming along?” Michael asked Max as he stuffed some of the complementary chips into his mouth.
“Really good actually, I should be finishing it in a few more weeks. I already sent my publisher the updates and he’s liking them so far, so we’ll see how it goes.” Max told him.
Just then, their friend Alex Whitman showed up.
“Hey guys! How’s it going?” He asked them as he sat at the table with a big grin on his face.
“Nothing much, what’s with you? What’s with the goofy grin?” Max asks.
“I’ll tell ya what it is. He’s finally getting somewhere with your sister, isn’t that right Whitman?” Michael asks with a smirk.
“No comment,” is all Alex says.
Five minutes later, just as Maria and Isabel are walking through the doorway another voice calls out.
“Maxie!!”
TBC, ok, I hate the way I’m ending this part, but I’m in a real hurry. Sorry this part is late, but I’ve had a busy week. Don’t know when I’ll put the next part out cuz I have a lot on my plate right now, but I’ll try my best. And please remember: FB!!!
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posted on 24-Apr-2002 7:42:09 PM by sunrise102 | I'm bumping my own story cuz I'm planning on posting part 4 later on tonight. I'm putting the finishing touches on right now.
c u soon.
Roxy
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posted on 25-Apr-2002 2:22:48 AM by sunrise102 | Part 4
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“Maxie!!”
Everyone turned around to see who had called Max. And there she was with a big smile on her face coming towards the gang.
“Grandma Claudia!” Max jumped up from the table and walked towards his surrogate grandmother. When he reached her he gave her a big hug.
“How’s my sweetie pie? I feel like I haven’t seen you in years.” Grandma Claudia returned Max’s hug with a laugh. She had missed Max while he had gone away on work for those few weeks.
“Grandma!” everyone else went over to greet Grandma Claudia, exchanging hugs and laughs.
“Are you gonna join us for lunch Grandma?” asked Maria as they all began to take a seat.
“I’d love to, but would it be alright if I bring a guest? I told her I’d meet her here so we can get a bite to eat before we continued on our way.” Grandma Claudia told them as she took a seat.
“Who’re you waiting for? Do we know her?” asked Isabel
“No, you don’t know her. She’s this really sweet girl who’s staying with me at the B & B. Oh! There she is.” She said waving so Liz would see her.
Everyone turned around to look at whoever this mystery woman was.
She came around the corner and was making her way to the patio of the café. Her rich dark hair was blowing gently in the wind and Max Evans could not stop staring to save his life. He fell hard. Right then and there. Just that one glimpse was all it took. She was the most beautiful girl he had ever laid eyes on. She was like a ray of sunshine, a beautiful flower, an angel sent from the heavens, a… ok, he was getting slightly carried away. He hadn’t even met her.
And she had a baby.
He noticed the little bundle that hung from her front as she got closer. Of course she would be taken. Who wouldn’t have already snatched her up at the first chance was a dunce. He raised his eyes back to her face and saw something that disturbed him. She was sad. And afraid. Why would she be either of those things? She appeared to have everything, and yet she looked like she had nothing. Well, whatever way it might be, he wanted to who she was and maybe make the sadness go out of her eyes.
“Lizzie,” Grandma Claudia stood up as she neared the table and took the shopping bags she was carrying. “did you have any trouble finding your way around?”
“No, it’s not hard to get around,” she answered as she took her seat next to Grandma Claudia. “hello everyone.” Liz looked around the table and felt a bit awkward.
“Everyone, this is Liz,” Grandma Claudia went around the table making introductions, “Liz next to you is Alex, then Isabel, Maria, Michael, and Max. These are my grandchildren, though not by blood, they’re more like the grandkids I never had.” She finished with a proud expression on her face. She really adored these kids. They filled in the void that was left when it became obvious her only son would never give her any grandchildren, more so after the death of her husband. After he passed away, instead of becoming a recluse and living with her thirty cats she became more involved with her community. She made sure that she went into town as often as possible so everyone knew who she was, she was always the first to welcome new families, she helped organize special community services for the needy and poor, and she also helped organize special events the community held every year, especially around holidays and those traditions small towns always have.
And the Bed and Breakfast was also a big help in her healing, it allowed her to meet lots of interesting people who would come and stay for their vacation. She was even proud to say she gave a little hand in convincing some of those vacationing families how wonderful living in Pacifica really was, and that is how the town got some of its best citizens. She managed to convince the Whitman’s to move here, albeit indirectly of course, but they fell in love with the place and Grandma Claudia showed them the best Pacifica had to offer.
“Nice to meet you Liz,” Maria was the first to jump right in to a conversation with the new girl. “what brings you here to Pacifica? Are you planning to stay long? Is that your baby?” she was cut of by Michael who immediately saw Liz panicking with every question thrown at her.
“What Chatterbox Maria, a.k.a Hurricane DeLuca, means is welcome to our little town, are you enjoying your stay so far?”
“Umm, thank you. It’s nice to meet all of you. I’ve heard a lot about you.” Liz said relaxing a little.
She really had.
On the way into town and while shopping Grandma Claudia had given bio’s of her ‘grandkids’, she almost felt like she knew them already. Alex Whitman was the computer whiz who went to study at MIT and was developing his own software, he intended to bring about another Silicon Valley to Pacifica while maintaining its tranquility and beauty. He was not only smart, but he was funny, loves having fun, loves his family and friends, and was the most loyal person around. And he has been secretly in love with Isabel since they were kids.
Isabel Evans was the beauty queen among the group. Whatever she wanted she got. She had a bit of a Ice Queen rep, but those who really knew her, saw her for the good and honest person she was. If you needed help, she would be there to help you, given that you weren’t on her ‘I don’t like you’ list. She looked like a model and even thought to be one some day, but instead decided to design clothes. She even went to Europe for college. She moved back home because this is were she felt she belonged and felt like she could never truly leave it. But that was ok, cuz she could still design clothes from home, and she was insistent she would be the next Donatella Versace.
Michael was the rebel of the group. He was the one who could never seem to change his hair out of the spikes. He had a passion for the arts. He loved reading and studying anything art and could even do some of it. But his real talent was in the kitchen. He could cook up a storm like few others. He could have studied at the Cordon Bleu, but instead settled for one of the best culinary schools on the west coast. His ambition was to become like his idol, Wolfgang Puck. He was also in a strange relationship with Maria. The strange part was that they were together at all and when they were so different. Plus, they were constantly fought all the time, but maybe that’s what kept their relationship from getting stale.
Maria was also a bit of a rebel. She like to sing, and was good at it. She went to college but could never seem to find her niche. But she wasn’t worried, she knew it would come to her. In the meantime she sunk her teeth into whatever she found appetizing. At the moment it meant managing her mother’s restaurant where Michael was the chef and one of the best restaurants on the west coast. It even received four stars from some critics’ magazine or something. So she was perfectly content.
Kyle Valenti, who was not here, was the athlete. He was a pro football player who played for the Oakland Raiders. During the off-season he would always come home and coach little league, or spend time with his family, his dad who was the town sheriff, his step-mom Amy who also happened to be Maria’s mom, and of course his step-sister, or hang with this childhood friends.
And last, but certainly not least there was Max Evans. Who also happened to be Isabel’s brother. He was the one who had been staring at her as she was making her way to the table. She hadn’t met his eyes, but she felt them on her. And when she finally looked into his eyes it was like falling into vertigo. But it was a pleasant feeling. He had the most amazing eyes she had ever seen, and she’d seen her fair share. They were like an amber-gold-whiskey kind of color. They were eyes that could look into a person’s soul and come out knowing every secret. The rest of him wasn’t all that bad either. He was gorgeous. He had a face to die for and from what she could see of it, a body like a god, or a Greek warrior. Max was sweet and gentle one. The one who would go out of his way to help you, whether he liked you or not, if you needed it, he would do it. He was quiet and reserved. Not at all arrogant the way lots of men who were handsome were. He was not the kind of person to lead you on. He was also smart, very smart. He was already a very established author. And he was barely 24 years old, and he had already had bestsellers, book tours, you name it. He had been writing since before going to college, but hadn’t the courage to try to publish anything until his second year when a professor convinced him to do it. So he was pretty much famous, but remained unfazed by it.
“Well, now that you’ve met everyone let’s eat and catch up on what Max has been doing these past few weeks.” Grandma Claudia cut in before Liz had the chance to answer Maria’s questions. She knew Liz was not ready to talk about herself and Sammy in too much detail. Right now she was still working on making her feel comfortable and she wouldn’t feel that if she was treated to the Spanish Inquisition.
Liz noticed what Grandma Claudia did and was infinitely grateful. She still didn’t feel at ease and until she stopped looking over her shoulder every two minutes she wouldn’t be able to relax. She was starting to trust Grandma Claudia and felt by looking at these people seating at the table with her that she might be able to trust them too.
TBC?
Phew! Finally got this out. If my class hadn’t gotten cancelled I never would have gotten around to it. Sorry it’s taken a while, but I’ve just been so busy, hopefully now that things have settled a little I’ll be able to post more often. I’m aiming at next week, but no promises. Please leave me Feedback!! Please. It’s my drug of choice.lol.
And someone asked the ages of these characters. Well, Liz is about 22, Max and Iz are about 23, so are Maria and Michael, and Alex and Kyle are 24, but only by a few months.
[ edited 1 time(s), last at 25-Apr-2002 12:02:43 PM ]
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posted on 12-May-2002 10:28:41 PM by sunrise102 | bump for a new part.
can you feel the excitement?lol
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posted on 13-May-2002 2:33:09 AM by sunrise102 | Part 5
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“So how was New York Max? Did you enjoy it? Was it exciting?” Grandma Claudia was firing questions to Max, wanting to know all about his trip. She had missed her ‘grandson’ while he’s been away and although she didn’t favor any of her kids, she had always felt a special connection to Max since he was a baby. He was always the quite one out of the group, the one who least asked for attention and yet the one who always seemed to need it most.
“It was fun. I had a great time, it was a nice place to visit, but I think I prefer living here, I started to get a little homesick after about the third day.” He joked and everyone laughed. “But really, I did like it. Everything seems to move a such fast pace compared to here. And I got to play tourist whenever I could manage to make a little time. And I got lots of souvenirs for everyone.”
“He may have gotten stuff for everyone, but ask him is he’s parted with any of the loot.” Pointed out Isabel with a pout.
“Oh come on Iz, everyone will get theirs at dinner on Sunday. It’s still on right Grandma Claudia?” Max looked over to where she was sitting, while also giving a quick glance at Liz.
“Of course, 6:00 on the dot.” Grandma Claudia answered.
“You know, I just wanted to tell you how much I love your books,” Liz directed softly to Max. The whole table went quite at the first sentence spoken by Liz that didn’t require someone to prod out of her. “I think they’re wonderful and you have a lot of talent.” She went on.
Max looked at her as though she was speaking an unknown language to the human race. A smile bloomed on his face and he fell a little deeper in love.
“You’ve read my books?” He asked, still not quite believing what she had said.
“Yes, my favorite one would have to be The Journey of the Rose, I couldn’t put it down.” She went on while shifting a sleeping Sammy to her other arm all the while not taking her eyes off Max.
“Oh man, can you hear that?” Michael asked rolling his eyes.
“Hear what?” said Alex.
“That noise is the sound of Max’s expanding ego.” Said Michael with laugh.
“Cut it out you guys!” Maria told them while giving Michael a smack on the head.
“What? We didn’t say anything.” Alex pointed out while rubbing his arm where Iz had hit him. “We were just messing around. We know Max isn’t really like that.”
“Besides, it’s not like he heard us anyway. He’s too absorbed in what Liz is saying. He wouldn’t notice the eruption of a volcano if lava landed at his feet.” Michael pointed out, slowly moving his chair so as not to be in the path of Maria’s aim. The girl may not be very big, but she could hit hard.
Meanwhile, Max and Liz were having their own conversation.
“I thought the ending was very sad. I used a whole box of tissues during the last three chapters. My eyes were so puffy by the end.” Liz was saying with an animated expression on her face. It was the most relaxed Grandma Claudia has seen her since she met her. And Max kept looking at her as if she was some rare and precious treasure he had just found. Her heart wanted to burst from happiness at seeing the two of them. Something special was being born. And she was lucky enough to be a witness to it.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
By the time Lunch was over, it was well three hours later. Everyone was talking like they were old friends. Well, most were, but Liz fit right in, like she had been part of the group all along. She was sweet, had a good sense of humor, intelligent, and even had a little sassiness in her that surprised some of them. But she held back. She gave very little away about anything that was too personal. And no one pressed, they seemed to sense her need for time and space.
“Well, this was fun. But I need to get back home. Are you ready to go Lizzie?” Grandma Claudia asked while everyone was getting their stuff ready.
“Oh well, actually, there are still some things I needed to buy.” Liz answered. Sammy had woken up and was starting to get cranky. She began whimpering for her bottle. Liz took out a bottle and began feeding her. “Well, never mind I guess. I should take Sammy back, she’s tired.” Liz couldn’t have said why she felt disappointed. It wasn’t as if she couldn’t go another day to pick up what she needed. Sammy was her first responsibility and she needed to go home.
Grandma Claudia seemed to sense something was wrong.
“Tell you what, I’ll take Sammy and take her of her until you get back, meanwhile, you finish shopping for what you need. Take a little time for yourself. Sammy will be fine with me, won’t you cutie?” Grandma Claudia said as she took Sammy out of Liz’s arms. Sammy stopped sucking on her bottle long enough to give her a smile.
“Oh well, I couldn’t really. It’s alright, I’ll go some other time to finish.” Liz stumbled along. She couldn’t leave Sammy. What if something happened? What if she fell and got hurt? What if she chocked on something? What if she got SIDS? What if—ok, she couldn’t let her imagination run away. Sammy was gonna be fine, she would only gonna be gone for an hour at most. And Grandma Claudia would take good care of her. She won’t let anything happen to her.
“Don’t worry Liz, she’ll be fine.” Grandma Claudia tried to reassure her. She could see that Liz was one step away from a panic attack. She understood that mothers had a hard time separating away from their children, at least at the beginning. But what she saw in Liz’s eyes was more than the normal separation anxiety new mothers experienced. She saw this complete terror on her face. As if she feared that if Sammy left her sight she’d never see her again.
“It’s ok Liz, Grandma Claudia will take good care of Sammy. She won’t let anything happen to her.” Max gently told Liz as he put a hand on her shoulder. He sensed the fear in Liz and tried to reassure her. Max’s hand on her shoulder calmed her a little. It was like balm on her troubled heart. “Grandma Claudia will head on home and I’ll take you wherever you need to go and then I’ll take you right home.”
“Well…alright, it won’t take long anyhow.” Liz turned to Max and offered a thank-you-smile.
So Max and Liz went in one direction while Grandma Claudia, Sammy and the rest went in the other after Liz gave some quick instructions to Grandma Claudia.
~~~~~~~~~~~
“Is the last one you have? Are you absolutely sure?” Liz asked the saleslady. Half an hour later, Max and Liz were at a baby store looking at strollers. First thing they did after separating from everyone else was go get some basic necessities at the drug store. Then they went to get a few groceries and now they were trying without much success to find a stroller. Liz had found the perfect one, but there were no more.
“I’m really sorry, but the only one we have left if the one we have for show.” She told the young couple.
“Well, can’t you sell us that one?” Max put in.
“Well, normally we don’t do that. Lemme ask my manager.” She left and went into one of the back rooms.
“I don’t know why they make it so difficult?” Liz said with a fierce look on her face. She looked like she was getting ready to go into battle. Max hid a smile. He could tell that Liz was the kind of person who would not hesitate to go smackdown if it meant protecting someone she loved. She suddenly looked up at him and caught his smile. She suddenly relaxed her body, and smiled back. “I guess it looks silly to get so revved up about something so trivial.” She blushed.
“Not at all, everyone has to have something to feel passionate about. You just happen to feel passionate about strollers.” Max responded with a grin. Liz blushed a little more and smiled at his teasing. She wasn’t used to being teased at like that. Or flirted with the way Max had been subtly doing all afternoon. She was sure he did it often with other girls, but she was definitely enjoying his attention, she hadn’t exactly had the time for normal things like boyfriends, dances, and such. She always lived vicariously through books to experience a little of what normal teens had experienced.
“Alright, my manager says it’s fine, but I’m afraid that there’s no box so you will have to take it like that. It’s the newest model and it’s been very popular, that’s why we ran out so quickly.” The saleslady offered a smile.
“That’s fine, we’ll take it.” Liz said.
Five minutes later they were outside with their bags and the newly acquired stroller.
“Do you want some ice cream?” Liz asked Max. She’d seen the ice cream parlor across the street and decided to treat Max as a thank you for being so kind to her.
“Yeah, sure.” Max’s eyes lit up at the mention of ice cream. Liz smiled and handed him the bags to go get some.
“Why don’t you stay here and I’ll go real quick and get two cones?” She asked. “What flavor do you want?”
“Strawberry.” Max answered with a little boy smile.
“Ok, I’ll be right back.” Liz quickly dashed across the street to the get the ice cream and in the meantime Max decided to that something had to be done about the bags, other than putting them on the ground. Ah-hah! The stroller. Just as was putting the last of the bags in the stroller that was temporarily serving as a baggage cart, Liz came back with two cones of double scoop ice cream, one vanilla, one strawberry.
“Here you go,” Liz offered one cone to Max.
“Thank you,” Max said grabbing the cone with both hands and tried to lick the sides that were melting.
“Uh, Max –“ Liz said.
“You really didn’t have to Liz.” Max began.
“Max –“
“You know I’m always available to help any way I can and don’t feel like you have to thank –“
“Max! The stroller!” Liz shrieked. Max turned around to see the stroller rolling down the hill with all the shopping bags. He dropped his cone and immediately took off. Liz took off after him yelling for someone to stop the stroller. Just then Max reached the stroller before it could cause any harm. He stopped it right before it hit a ladder where a man was busy painting, unfortunately Max bumped the ladder causing the paint bucket to spill it’s contents right on top of him.
“Max? Are you alright?” Liz asked quietly, her eyes wide and one hand covering her mouth so as not to laugh. Everything had stopped as soon as the paint landed on him. Everyone around him were staring at him, waiting for his reaction.
Max took two fingers and wiped the paint off his eyes.
“I’m great.” He looked at Liz just in time to see her laughing. Her attempt to hold it in had not been successful. She was laughing so hard she had to bend over. All the while, Max looked at her. His lip started to curl and before he knew it, he was laughing hysterically too.
TBC??
Ok, I’m not too happy with this, but I wanted to give something out right now. Finals are starting this week and I probably won’t have much time for another part until I’m done. But that’s next week. So yay!! Hopefully then after that I’ll post more often instead of every 2 years like I do now.LOL. Please leave me feedback. Pleeeeeeeeeease.
Btw, I had pretty much decided on no aliens in the story. I’m pretty sure I’ll stick to that, but don’t be too surprised if I change my mind later on if I see I need it.
Edited to add:
Abby, hope you put a new part of Undercover soon. I love that story. I hope you continue writing, I know it takes a lot of time, but you're so good at it. Don't stop.
[ edited 1 time(s), last at 13-May-2002 2:36:38 AM ]
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posted on 14-May-2002 8:51:29 PM by sunrise102 | Hey all! I just wanna take a moment to thank all of you for your feeback. The more feeback, the more it makes me wann write (hint, hint) and faster too. I know I said I wouldn't be updating until I finish with finals, but you never know. I might feel the need for a study break and write a little something, but I won't make promises. If you're lucky I'll get another short one before the weekend's up, keep your find fingers crossed.
I also know you have questions, but you might have to wait on that. You'll find the answers soon enough if I don't answer anything directly. Ummm, I think that's it for now. See you when I see you.
Roxy
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posted on 28-May-2002 10:06:59 AM by sunrise102 | Wow! Has it really been 2 weeks since I updated? Sorry about that guys. I haven't been home a whole week and since then I've basically been playing lazy. I'm still trying to settle in and put away all my stuff. It's amazing how much stuff I had in my dorm.LOL. Anyway, I apologize for being lazy, but another thing is that I don't have access to the internet everyday. So whenever I do get the chance to come online it's usually to read. I just get to caught up in all the other stories here that I can't help it. Well, I'll try to put another part either today or tomorrow. See you all later.
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posted on 30-May-2002 11:52:14 PM by sunrise102 | I know I said I was gonna have a new part out for you guys yesterday, unfortunately I couldn't meet my deadline. Sorry. And I really wanted to have it out before this weekend since I'm going out of town, but I had all this packing to do. So I promise I'll have it out either Monday after I get back or Tuesday after my first day of work. But could you do me a favor and not let the thread get lost cuz then I have the worst trouble finding it. Thanx everyone. Now I better go to sleep if I'm gonna be at the airport at the crack of dawn. Night all. See you all Monday or Tuesday.
Roxy
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posted on 11-Jun-2002 4:48:30 PM by sunrise102 | Bump! Today, I promise.
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posted on 11-Jun-2002 6:12:25 PM by sunrise102 | Thanx for the bumps everone. You don't know how much it means to me. *sniff*
Part 6A
~~~~~~~
After the paint incident, once Liz and Max stopped laughing, they made their way to the car. Max had found some rags in the trunk, which he used to clean up as best as he could. All the while Liz kept smirking, trying not to laugh again. After that they got in the car and left.
It was weird though. Not awkward-weird. But a different weird. After Max got drenched with the paint and they laughed at it, it was like their laughter broke any remaining tension that was harboring between them. An innate trust towards Max crept through Liz’s defenses, and Max accepted that Liz had secrets, and that she would tell him when she was ready. On the drive back they just talked about anything and everything, as if they’d been friends forever.
“Thanks for driving me back Max. I really appreciate it.” Liz turned to Max as he pulled into the driveway of the B & B.
“You’re welcome. It was no problem at all.”
They got out of the car along with Sammy and all the shopping bags.
“So how do you like living with Grandma Claudia so far?” Max asked as he walked Liz and Sammy to the door.
“It’s great. I’m loving it. She’s like the grandmother I never had. You know if no one had said anything out loud, one wouldn’t know that you, Isabel, Michael, Maria, and Alex weren’t her real grandchildren. She talks so highly of all of you and she’s even got some pictures of you guys when you were little kids.”
“Well, even though we don’t have the same blood running through our veins we consider her our grandmother. I mean, most of our real grandparents have died or live far away and she’s like our honorary grandma. She fills the void that only a grandparent can fill. Truth is that I think we fill a void for her too. She never really got the chance to be one to her own kin.”
“Wait. You mean she does have grandchildren?” Liz was surprised at that. As far as she could tell, she had no other family.
“Well…technically. Kind of. See, she and grandpa Joe had one child. A daughter. She kind of disappeared though. It was really strange. She went away to college and when she was finished she never came back. Not even for a visit or anything and Claudia and Joe had no way of contacting her. She got married though and she had at least one kid. She sent a picture of her. But then she just stopped. As if she had dropped off the face of the earth.”
“Wow. I had no idea.”
“The only reason I’m telling you is because you’re gonna be living with her for the foreseeable future and you might be able to talk to her. She doesn’t talk about it, like it never happened. The only reason I know is because of what I’ve overheard my parents say and the gang’s parents too.”
“Well, what makes you think she’ll talk to me?” Liz asked.
“Just a feeling I have. I can’t explain it. She just met you, but… there’s just something about the way she acts with you. I just hope you can get her to talk. She’s been bottling this for so long, and it’s not good for her. There’s times throughout the year when she gets sad and angry. We feel like there’s a connection.” Max explained as he finally set the bags on the porch.
“Whatever I can do to help her I will, but I don’t know how much good I’ll do.” Liz said. She understood Grandma Claudia. There was a bond between them she hadn’t know was there, she had felt it, but hadn’t been able to put a name to it. She knew what it was like to feel sadness, anger, loss… she would do anything that was in her power to do.
“You’ll do plenty of good. Start by just being there for her.” Max replied, reading the determination on her face. He felt relieved by that. He knew Grandma Claudia was in good hands with Liz nearby.
“Ok, well. Max umm, thanks again for everything.” Liz smiled and turned shy again.
“Don’t mention, I’m glad I could help. So I’ll see you this Sunday then?” Max asked. She was so beautiful. He wanted to kiss her. Just once. A little peck, nothing more.
“Yeah, Sunday yes. I’ll see you then.” She looked into his eyes. He had such beautiful eyes. A person could drown in them, but without a fight whatsoever.
He started to lean towards her. Just one little kiss. It won’t hurt. One little peck. A few more inches…
“Waaahh!” Sammy started wailing with a vengeance. She began squirming in Liz’s arms and continued crying.
“Oh, I better take her in. She’s tired.” Liz said with a certain amount of regret. Darn it! So close.
“Yeah, before eardrums begin to pop.” Max said with a smile. Darn! So very close. Oh well, maybe another time.
“Well… good-night Max.” Liz said as she went inside.
“Good-night Liz.” Max walked towards the car and glanced back as soon as he reached it. Liz was standing in the doorway. She gave him a little wave before she closed the door.
~~~~~~~~
The shadowed figure made his way through the snow. He entered the dark house and closed the door with a slam.
That bitch!!
Who did she think she was?!! How dare she run from him like that. She had no right!! She had his property and he was going to do whatever it took to get it back.
No matter who died in the process.
TBC??
So sorry guys! Please forgive me for taking so long with this part. I know I said I’d be back last week but RL snuck up on me and bit me on the derriere. Work and some personal problems came in unexpectedly. I've barely had time to read FF, let alone write any. Pleeeeeeeeease leave me FB. It will motivate me to write faster. Thanx for sticking with me. Muah!!
[ edited 1 time(s), last at 11-Jun-2002 6:18:03 PM ]
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posted on 12-Jun-2002 10:37:51 PM by sunrise102 | Would anyone mind if I bump my story? I just want to make it easier for you all to find.
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posted on 22-Aug-2002 12:28:33 AM by sunrise102 | I know it's been a looooooooooooooong time since I've been here last. I apologize for being MIA. But my summer wasn't the best and I just lost the inspiration for writing and only seemed to want to read. It helped my troubled mind.
But. The good news is that yesterday I moved back to school and hopefully with the distance my muse will come back for a visit. Unfortunately I won't be even attempting to write until at earliest Friday because since I've been back it's been meeting after meeting for my job on campus and it's taking all of my time. But I should be free on Friday so I'll try to write some then. I don't know when I'll put out the part, I guess whenever it gets done, but I'll try real hard.
In the meantime I wanna say thanks to those who have read my story, it makes me feel good that someone likes it. I also appreciate the support and the bumps I've gotten and thanks to whoever gave me a 5 star rating. I almost fell off my seat when I saw it.
See you soon, and thanks again,
Roxy
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posted on 20-Nov-2002 12:23:09 AM by sunrise102 | Wow! I can't believe anyone actually remembers this story. I'm flattered. I actually have another part almost done, but I'm missing an important part. And I can't post it without it. I'm looking for some song lyrics that are not easy to find. Anyway, as soon as I get them I'll post the part.
Also, I know I've been MIA pretty much all semester, but I guess I hadnt realized how busy this semester was gonna be. I apologize to those who've been waiting. Some days are so tiring that it's much easier to read than write. I cant' ever give up reading the amazing stories on this board. Anyways finals are coming real soon and then I'll be on break so I hope to get a few more parts out then. In the meantime, don't forget me.
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posted on 14-Dec-2002 9:53:07 PM by sunrise102 | I haven't forgotten I swear! Finals came and bit me right on the rear end. I had a few all-nighters to put up with. Good news is that the semester is almost over. A few more days and a few more papers and then I'm free. Thanks so much for the bumps. You don't know what they mean to me! Muah!
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posted on 18-Dec-2002 12:34:43 AM by sunrise102 | Part 6B
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Birds were chirping, the sun was shining, the air smelled like what it was… a perfect fall day. The sky was blue and not a cloud could be seen.
Liz jumped out of bed and practically danced out to the kitchen in her pj’s and butterfly slippers.
What a beautiful day it was, and it was only the morning.
“Morning Lizzie.” Grandma Claudia looked up from feeding the baby and saw Liz practically dance across the kitchen to get some breakfast. She was most certainly in a good mood. She smiled at Sammy while she went back to feeding her her breakfast.
“Morning grandma.” Liz responding while pouring a cup of coffee. There was so much to do today! Tonight was the dinner and there was a lot to for that. But she also had a mental list of things she wanted to do before that. There was laundry to do, rugs to be vacuumed, dusting…oh! She couldn’t forget to rake the leaves outside –
“Lizzie.” Grandma Claudia repeated.
“Oh! I’m sorry grandma. I was thinking about some stuff.” Liz went to the table to sit down.
“I know you were. I could practically see the wheels turning rapidly in your head. You’re probably thinking about all the things you’re gonna do today right?” Liz smiled sheepishly. In the few days she’d been here it was amazing how well Grandma Claudia had been gotten to know her and her habits.
For the first time in a really long time Liz was beginning to relax. She was so grateful for Grandma Claudia and all she was bringing to Liz. And she was doing her best to try to repay her by helping around as much as she could. For the first time in a long time Liz was beginning to trust again…
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Liz was raking the leaves in the backyard. Well part of the backyard anyway, since the property is so big it was near impossible to rake every square inch. Only part of the open space most used for tables and such. She couldn’t help but think about last night. Max had taken her out to dinner, although Liz was very hesitant to go. She really liked Max, maybe more than she was willing to admit, but there was so much drama in her life she didn’t want to drag him into it.
Max could see how hesitant Liz was about accepting to go to dinner with him. After that first day when they met she had spent plenty of time with his sister and friends even him, but she held back from conversing with him.
She was afraid.
Of what he didn’t know, but he knew she feared something. He wanted to help her, but couldn’t if she didn’t let him in. But he would be patient, he could tell she would be worth it. Besides, there was plenty of time to get to know each other and he wanted to know every single thing about her.
It had been a lovely evening. Liz really liked spending time with Max, but something was just…off. As hard as she tried, she couldn’t help but let her mind wander. If Max got to close…it couldn’t happen. She couldn’t let anyone too close. For their own sakes.
“Liz?” Max had walked her to the door. He had to speak up. He wanted her to know that no matter what secrets she had, he would be there. But not if she didn’t give her an opening.
Liz was brought back to the present by the radio. She noticed she had stopped raking. The song. She listened to the lyrics and thought how appropriate to what she was feeling right now.
I’ve been searchin for a reason
And I’m runnin out of time
I can feel that it’s the same thing
It’s time to make up my mind
“Liz, I know that you have something that’s keeping you from reaching for what you really want. And it’s like this dark cloud that follows you.
And I can’t really tell you what I’m going to do
There are so many thoughts in my head
There are two roads to walk down
And one road to choose
So I'm thinking over the things that you've said
I'm thinking over the things
I'm thinking over, thinking over, thinking over the things that you've said
I'm thinking over, thinking over, thinking over the things
I care about you and I’m not gonna shove my way in, but know that I’m not going away. I’m staying here and I’ll be patient until you feel like you can trust me. I hope you know that I mean what I say.”
Am I ready for forever
Oh God show me a sign
Cause if we're to be together
Then it's got to be divine
But was she really? Ready that is? That is exactly what she needed, a sign.
He wants to marry me, carry me far away
He wants to love me for life
He wants to be with me every morning I awake
He wants to hold me through the night
Whoa! Let’s not get ahead of ourselves Liz! No one said anything about marriage! And Max wouldn’t want to marry her…would he? Liz looked up at the sky with a dreamy expression on her face. It was ok to pretend…even for a little while.
Father, which way should I go?
I can not clearly see
Oh I love him so
But only you know if he's the one for me
Yeah, yeah,
So where was that sign when you needed it?
“Hello Liz.”
TBC?
Phew! Here it is. I’m now done with finals and stuff so asides from work, I’m pretty much free. Aren’t you guys lucky? Anyways, thanks so much for being patient I really appreciate it and all the bumps. You all are great!
BTW, I should mention that I'm not happy with this part, I'm really not, but it's the best I could do for now. I really wanted to get it out for you guys and I promise to do better next part. Thanks again.
[ edited 1 time(s), last at 18-Dec-2002 12:37:56 AM ]
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