posted on 29-Jul-2002 11:30:54 AM
I’ll Never Say

Summary: Liz is the lead singer to a band, when Maria decides to leave the band to pursue a solo career the band must find a replacement.

Distribution: Just tell me where it’s going, Email Me

Disclaimer: Not mine. Don’t sue, I don’t think my parents would like to pay for that.

Couple: Max and Liz

Rating: Up to NC-17, eventually.

1-3-3

Chapter One
Liz’s Point of View

“No! Alex, I don’t want to meet him.”

“Liz, you’re overreacting. You do realize you do have to work with this man. Besides, he’s the best around.”

“Aside from Maria.”

“Yes, aside from Maria.”

Okay, I’m Liz Parker, lead singer for the band Visionaries. The band consists of myself and my three best friends. Or at least it did until Maria decided she wanted to try her hand at a solo career. I don’t blame her, she’s incredibly talented. She writes great music, and her voice is so original. Unfortunately our manager doesn’t allow her enough room to be creative. Costello, our manager, thinks if we allow Maria to put her new songs on our albums it might hurt our sales. I said to hell with it, but Maria insists she’s tired of us anyway. I love ‘Ria. So, she’s pursuing her career in another genre of music.

So, this is where I am now. The whole band is throwing a party in celebration of Maria’s new record deal. I sort of hate being here, because it means that I’m letting her go. But at the same time I’m as happy as can be for her.

Anyway, now that Maria is gone we had to find someone to replace her as bassist. Actually, I left that job to Alex and Kyle. Now I know what happens if I leave a job up to them. They hire a male. With my luck he’ll be a greasy short freak. Ugh. I am so going to miss having a girl around.

“Your agreeing with me isn’t going to make me want to change my mind.”

I pull a piece of hair off of my black halter and smooth out my pants. I look over to Alex who’s sitting on the edge of the bath. He pulled me in here to inform me of the presence of our newfound bassist. No thank you. I can pretend like he’s not there.

I know, I know. I’m being petty. I should be making him feel like part of the group, right? I can’t. Okay, well I can. But I really don’t want to. I’m dreading meeting this guy like the first day at school. It’s almost like meeting your ex’s new girlfriend for the first time. You want to hate her, but you know you should at least give her a chance.

“Lizzie, please?”

“No. Alex don’t you feel like we’re finding someone to replace ‘ria?”

“Well, Liz, we are technically. But not in the sense you mean. No one can replace Maria. Besides, come next year we’ll be touring with her.”

“That’s a whole year on a tour bus without a girl to talk to.”

“Well, see-“

“No Alex, I don’t want to hear it. I know what you’re going to say, and I don’t want to be hearing it. Unless this bassist is Ajay from Lit, I don’t want to meet him yet. I intend on working with this person you and Kyle have picked out, but that’s it. I’ll tell him what song I want to hear and that’s it. At least until I get used to the idea. You know?”

“I think you’ll be very pleased.”

I give Alex a quick hug and swiftly walk out the door. Well, I attempt to anyways. Instead as soon as I step foot outside the door I collide with a taller man, and fall flat on my ass.

Grr. The man reaches his hand down to help me up. This is so not what I need. I ignore the hand and get myself up off the floor. Let’s see Nike sneakers, baggy jeans, slightly oversized t-shirt. Good to know this guy felt like he had to dress up.

“Sorry about that.”

What?

I look up quickly to see the person who inspired me to write Visionaries first single. Max Evans. THE Max Evans. Through out my last four years of schooling I obsessed about him day and night. He was the reason I loved school. He was also probably the same reason every girl didn’t mind school. I kept getting all those, “What if…” scenarios when we became lab partners in tenth grade. We never really had a conversation though. I guess you could say it was forbidden. He was a skater/jock, my nose was always in a book. High school is so cruel. It didn’t help that day after day I was forced to work in my parents’ alien themed restaurant. And everyday, he’d come in with a group of friends, and order lunch.

I tear my eyes away from his deep amber ones, and head off to find Maria.

When I find her I start ranting.

“Did you know?” Maria merely smiles and nods. “How could you? You know I can’t do this!”

“Liz, you’ve sung in front of how many people?”

“Not in front of him!”

“Actually you have, he’s attended a few of our concerts.”

HUH? Oh my god, oh my god.

Maria heads over to the small stage we have set up in our living room. She grabs the microphone and asks someone to stop the music.

“As you all know, tomorrow I’m flying out to Sweden to continue working on my album. But there is no way you are getting rid of me until I see who I’m leaving my band with, Max? Can you come up here please?”

Max walks up to Maria, giving her a hug. He’s so-. NO! Liz stop it!

“What do you think ladies? Is he good enough?” The room goes up in hollers and cat calls. Ughh. I look at them all in disgust. Who are these people again? “I didn’t hear you Liz. You have to work with him, what do you think?” The rooms focus is solely in me. It’s like back in school, when everyone wants to know who you like. No more!

Putting on my best face that shows indifference I say, “Let’s hear him play.”

As soon as the words leave my mouth I know I never should have left my bed this morning.

“What a perfect idea Liz. Can I have the band come up here for me, and do a song for the finale to my party?”

NO!

But even as I think it, Max is picking up the guitar, Alex is twirling the drum sticks, and Kyle takes his place by the keyboard. All that’s missing is me.

No, no, no.

Reluctantly, I drag my feet to the microphone, and clear my throat.

“How about “Fear”?”

“Boo!” Maria yells. “I want to hear the song that made us stars!”

Best friends are highly overrated.

Everyone starts clapping and the band starts.

“I’m tugging at my hair
I’m pulling at my clothes
I’m trying to keep my cool
I know it shows
I’m staring at my feet
My cheeks are turning red
I’m searching for the words inside my head”

The sweat is pouring off my body, as I do my usual turn and look back at the band. It’s catches me off guard to see Max standing where Maria has been for the last three years.

“Cause I’m feeling nervous
Trying to be so perfect
Because I know you’re worth it
You’re worth it
Yeah”

Maria is standing a few feet away from me with tears in her eyes, yet she still manages a mischievous grin.

“If I could say what I want to say
I’d say I want to blow you away
Be with you every night
Am I squeezing you too tight?
If I could say what I want to see
I want to see you go down
On one knee
Marry me today
Yes, I’m wishing my life away
With these thing I’ll never say”

I move back a little so that I can see Max out of the corner of my eye. He’s not even looking at what he’s doing, he’s looking out at the group of people. His fingers smoothly gliding over the strings.

“It don’t do me any good
It’s just a waste of time
What use is it to you
What’s on my mind?”
It ain’t coming out
We’re not going anywhere
So, why can’t I just tell you that I care?”

Maria’s lip syncing and there’s a look that I haven’t seen in a while in her eyes. Pride.

“Cause I’m feeling nervous
Trying to be so perfect
Because I know you’re worth it
You’re worth it
Yeah

If I could say what I want to say
I’d say I want to blow you away
Be with you every night
Am I squeezing you too tight?
If I could say what I want to see
I want to see you go down
On one knee
Marry me today
Yes, I’m wishing my life away
With these thing I’ll never say”

It’s amazing how a person can absolutely clueless as to how another feels. I look at Max, and all though he’s dressed differently now, he’s still the person I liked for almost half of my life.

“What’s wrong with my tongue?
These words keep slipping away
I stutter, I stumble
Like I’ve got nothing to say

With all these things I’ll never say”

Before I finish the last word Maria has run up to me, and is crushing me in a bear hug.

“I’m going to miss you Lizzie.” We cling onto each other, best friends since we were babies, and cry. We’re finally being separated.

**********************
Avril Lavigne "Thing's I'll Never Say"

[ edited 2 time(s), last at 2-Aug-2002 10:34:48 PM ]
posted on 29-Jul-2002 11:32:45 AM
Chapter Two
Liz’s Point of View

Ugh. Sun. I turn my head from the window and throw the blankets over my head. I don’t wanna wake up. We get to go to MTV, for an interview. Fun. Not. It’s all about Max. Carson really isn’t all that great either. Very self-centered.

Reluctantly I get myself out of bed and wander towards the kitchen. Mmmm…. The smell of coffee in the morning. I walk past all of the bedrooms. The guest one still open. A part of me is sad that Max went home, then again maybe it’s for the best. When he’s around I turn into a bumbling idiot. And we can’t have that this early in the morning. I look into Alex’s bedroom, and find that he’s not there. Yay! Alex is making the coffee. That means no herbal crud from Maria, and no “instant coffee” from Kyle. Why did I say instant coffee with such distaste? One time, Kyle wanted instant coffee, so he thought that if he crushed coffee beans and added it to water that we’d all have instant coffee. Believe me, it was one of the most disgusting things any of us have ever tasted.

Needless to say, Alex is the designated coffee maker.

I lift my nightgown slightly so that I can scratch my thigh. Damn wax. It always dries out my skin. That’s what I get for being lazy though. I grab a mug and pour myself some coffee, and take a sip. Yum, black.

“Black coffee probably isn’t the best thing to have.” I turn around so quickly that some of the hot liquid spills over the side and onto the floor. Max.

“I went past the guest room, and no one was in there.” I set the mug down and reach for a paper towel.

“I made the bed.”

“Dork. Who the hell makes their bed? It’s only going to get messed up again anyway.”

He let’s out a little chuckle, and leans against the counter.

“It’s a habit. Besides, not fully moved in yet. I can’t have it a mess before I actually live here.”

“All right. That’s a good enough reason.”

I wipe away the mess that I made, before I hear footsteps behind me.

“I see London, I see France, I see-“

“Don’t even say it Kyle!” I swiftly stand up and tug on the edge of my shirt, like it will really get longer.

Kyle laughs and goes to stand over by Max. They continue laughing, when they stop? I have no clue, I left the room.

Max saw my underwear. I let out a groan and run to my room.

Kyle’s Point of View

“I saw that Liz!”

“Yes, Kyle. We’ve already established that you and Max have both seen my panties.”

I knock lightly on her door before entering. Liz is pulling her hair up and turning to look up at me.

“No, not that. I saw that thing.”

“That thing?”

Ugh.

“Yes. That look.”

“What the hell look are you talking about?”

“That look that transpired between the two of you when you didn’t even know I was watching.”

“Ooh. My stalker saw a glance.”

“No, not a glance. A glance is an acknowledgment purely for politeness. This one was, well, one I know that was always reserved for him. You know? The one where you look through your eyelashes, because you’re playing bashful and looking at your feet.”

Liz turns her head and I know that she’s blushing. After all these years she’s still got a crush on Max. I don’t understand why. He never gave her the time of day. Not that she tried. They were lab partners, but neither said anything more than what was needed to work together. Didn’t help that the guy had it bad for Tess Harding. The official whore of Roswell High. Huh, we’ll get on that subject sometime later.

“That’s just it Liz. Don’t be shy. You’re a successful hottie according to MTV. If you want him, go for him.”

“I can’t.”

“You can. Use some of that courage that it took for you to sing at your first concert.”

“That’s different, he’s THE Max Evans.”

“Hey, what’s he got the I don’t?”

“The whole not being my brother thing.”

“I’m not your brother either.”

“Yeah, but you feel like it.”

“Thanks.” I smile and take her into my arms.

“Ooh! Can I get in on some of that action?” Liz and I burst into laughter before Alex comes over putting an arm around Liz.

A couple minutes later as Liz is telling us about what went on last night, something causes her to stare at the door. I follow her line of direction and find Maria.

Liz pulls away and tears start forming in her eyes. “Not yet.”

Maria’s poker face crumbles and slowly nods her head.

“No. Maria you still have-“ Liz’s voice trails off as she looks at her clock.

“About five minutes chica.”

“I don’t think I’m ready to let my best friend leave.” Liz slowly gravitates towards Maria, and Alex and I leave the room.

Liz’s Point of View

“Lizzie, don’t cry. I didn’t want this to be a big deal.”

A big deal? She’s going away and she doesn’t want it to be a big deal?

I let out a small cry and Maria and I hug. We’ve never spent more than a weekend away from each other. She always came with me when I spent the summer with my Grandma Claudia. Hell, Claudia is as good as hers too.

“Liz, you can call me. We aren’t completely cut off from each other. Besides, I’m going to need you to tell me how everything goes with your eye candy. He’s as good as yours babe.”

“Maria, we’ve barely said three sentences.”

“Oh please. I know these things. It’s only a matter of time. Just don’t play hard to get. But don’t be easy.”

“Aah. One of the many reasons I love you ‘Ria.”

We hug one last time when, Ricky, our driver calls for her.

“I’ll give you a call when I make it over to Sweden.” That said, she walks out of the room and out to the car to say goodbye to Alex and Kyle. I hold back my tears as I watch them all smile and wish her luck.

She’s really leaving. I guess this is one of those life altering points. You can either take I well, or you can make it a huge deal. How it’s going to turn out I have yet to tell.

“And you!” Maria yells, pointing a finger over my shoulder. “You better help take this band places! Give it your all or face the wrath of Hurricane DeLuca, as my friends have so lovingly dubbed me.”

He’s here? Oh my god. He heard all of my blabbering? I start to turn around, but am stopped by Maria placing her hand on my arm.

“Don’t babe. Mascara face.” She smirks and gets to work getting rid of the make-up gone bad.

I don’t know what face or motion he makes, but whatever it is it satisfied Maria.

“All right chica. I have to get going.”

“But-“

“No buts. Love ya babe, take care.”

Once her car is out of sight Alex and Kyle head back inside. Me? I park my ass on the curb.

I’m horrible. I should be happy.

“Liz?”

“Hmmm?”

Max tentatively walks over and sits with me.

“You guys were still really close?”

“Always.”

“That’s good. I mean, in interviews you guys were like that, but you know how television is.”

He even knew I was alive in high school?

“I never knew you played bass.”

Way to go Liz. Why not just tell him you had a Max shrine in your closet through out school?

“Something I picked up on after graduation.”

“Oh.”

Talk about an awkward silence. What do you say to your crush of… how many years now? Six? Seven? What did you think of my blue undies? I think not.

Oh, where’s Maria when you so desperately need her?

“So, are you ready for your very first MTV interview?”

Who am I kidding? He was made for television.

“I guess so. But, honestly? I also dread it at the same time. You know? It’ll make my personal life, everyone else’s business.”

I look into his amber eyes and smile. That’s almost exactly what I said to Maria the eve of our first interview.

“I’m sure you’ll do great.” I put my hands on my legs, and get myself off the ground. “Rehearsal is in ten so get ready. Mr. Big shot manager Jake likes to drill you with possible questions before interviews.” I grin and wipe my hands on the sides of my pants, before heading to the door.

As soon as my hand touches the door knob I turn around. He was watching me! I try to control the fluttering in my stomach before I open my mouth.

“By the way, beware of Sandy.”

“Sandy?”

“The make-up artist, she loves doing guys make-up.”

“Make-up? I’m not wearing any of that crap!”

“Tell that to her. Better yet, ask Alex and Kyle.”

The look on Max’s face is priceless. But I’m really not kidding.

Alex and Kyle walk out the door past me and remind Max that the guys are going out for some fun tonight. What kind of fun? I don’t know.

“Hey guys? Why don’t you tell our bassist about Sandy?”

I laugh hysterically as they break out in shivers in unison.

“Liz, don’t even mention that name.”

Oh, the look of horror on all three of their faces is just too sweet.

posted on 29-Jul-2002 11:33:48 AM
Chapter Three
Liz’s Point of View

I don’t know why I even have to make an appearance at this interview, it is supposed to be all about Max. All that’s going to happen if I go is that the cameras will catch all the glances I send Max’s way. All the ones that are supposed to be secret. And that’s all I need right now, the whole world knowing I have some thing for Max Evans. It was bad enough in High School when a few people knew, but more? Ugh.

After going through hair and make-up I head over to the dressing room. Do you know how often I disagree with this so-called fashion expert?

“Liz!” I look up at him and paste on a smile that I’ve perfected for the press on my bad days.

“Jay, how’s it going?”

“It’s going very well, you?”

“It’s going.’” He chuckles and throws clothes at me. Unfolding the clothes to check out my forced attire I scowl. Directing the evil look at the balding middle aged man I raise an eyebrow. “You know I don’t wear pink.” He just grins and hands me a black version, to go with the tan cords. “Thank you. If I’m going to be baring this much skin I may as well wear a color I like.”

Turning to go to my cubicle I almost run into Alex. He has this odd look on his face and I look over his clothes. They seem like something he’d wear. Then the odd look begins to look happy. Ahh… the days Alex runs hot and cold are the days I want to be nowhere near him. Then he just hands me a bag calling it a present.

I shrug it off and open the door to the cubicle.

Oh. My. God.

I stand frozen in place as I watch a boxer clad Max on his hands and knees digging through clothes. I don’t even know if he notices I’m here, because he just continues to rummage. I watch the muscled shoulders flex as he moves every piece of clothing.

I know I should just close the door and walk away, but there’s no better way to hide a crush on someone than to act perfectly normal, right? I mean if it were Alex or Kyle I would be laughing hysterically, but with Max I just can’t seem to go away.

“What in the world are you doing?”

“Alex just came by to drop off a pair of pants that Jay guy wanted me to wear, but I can’t. Seem to. Find them.” Pulling my eyes away from Max’s body I dig through the bag. And sure enough there is a pair of men’s jeans. I let out a laugh.

“Umm… here.” I say thrusting them into Max’s hands. I take one more look at his tousled hair and run off to go find Alex. “Alex!” As I near the make-up trailer I hear Kyle and Alex laughing as they tell the story to Sandy. I hope she piles on the make-up. I grin and peek my head in the door. They all turn to me, still laughing.

“Sandy, don’t you think it’s time you got around to plucking some of those eyebrows off of Alex, I mean they’re looking a little bushy.” She looks at him in deep thought, and nods her head. The smile drops from Alex’s face, and he sends me a death glare. “And Kyle, don’t worry I’ll get you back later.”

“Me? What did I do?”

“I don’t know, but you’re you and you’re never innocent.”

“That’s right, it was all his idea!” Alex proclaims.

“Nuh-uh!”

I listen to them bickering as I manage to get the redness from my face. I’m really not sure if Max was even embarrassed, but if he wasn’t I was enough for the both of us. Muttering a few choice words I head back to the dressing room and enter Maria’s old cubicle. When I get in there I let my mind wander, the scent of Maria’s incense and perfume still hang in the air, calming me. I let myself think of her, and eventually back to the thought of Max’s toned arms and tan body.


“And we’re on in three, two…” the intern for MTV’s Total Request Live signals we’ve gone live, and we all direct our attention back to the temporary host. My fave at that, Bryan McFayden.

“Welcome back to TRL, and I’m Bryan McFayden filling in for Carson Daly. And we’re privileged to have The Visionaries, here with us today. Well, four of the originals at least along with the new bassist, Max Evans. So, I heard you guys threw a going away party for Maria last night, Liz? What happened to my invite?”

I let out a small laugh as he pretends to be hurt as I let him know I had no say in who attended. I didn’t even want it to happen.

“That’s all right. But can you just tell me what it’s like to have someone other than Maria in the group?”

“It hasn’t really sunk in, I’ll miss her but I’m also proud. But Max is great at what he does and the sound is just as good as before if I may say so myself.”

“I’m sure it does. Now I know all of you out in the audience, and at home are waiting to hear from the newbie, so Max, if you don’t mind?” Bryan says as he finally turns his attention towards Max. Unfortunately the smile looks fake. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Bryan unfriendly but, every one has their days I guess.

I can’t help but watch Max as he blushes and scratches a spot behind his ear, and I smile at how eager he is when he says yes. It reminds me of my first interview, the fact that my thoughts are going out on live television it doesn’t matter. It’s the thrill of just merely knowing that others know you’re even alive, and maybe that they even like you as a person. It may sound corny but I then knew the meaning of being high on life. I was just so enamored by all the lights, and cameras that I didn’t even hesitate, and obviously neither does Max as he shakes hands with Bryan.

“First off I want to welcome you to the MTV family. And now how about telling us how you landed the job?”

“Let’s just say I know somebody who knew the band.” Max answers while throwing a not-so-subtle glance at Alex.

“You know, now that I think of it I haven’t heard either.” I don’t even really have to ask I just want to hear what he’ll say. Hell, I just want to hear him speak.

“Uh… Isabel, my sister, managed to get me a private audition with Alex and Kyle. I guess they liked it so… ya know.”

I raise my eyebrow at Alex and he shrugs. Huh, I’ll have to make it a point later to question Alex about Isabel.

“Okay, well, Liz? Would you like to introduce the next video on our countdown?” Looking up at the teleprompter I can’t keep the smile of my face.

“Oooh. Yay! Here today on TRL your number four video is “Adrienne” by one of my favorite bands, The Calling!”

The crowd cheers and after the video we go to commercial.

“Okay guys, next we’re going to let the audience ask a question or two. During the next commercial break you’ll go do the picture booth while we set up your stage with your needed equipment for the song, and you’ll still have time for a quick sound check.”

I thank Bryan and he gives me a quick hug. I give him a peck on the cheek and move back to my stool as everyone takes their places.

“Welcome back to TRL, now lets get back to the countdown with Eminem’s “Hailie’s Song” at three.” I cheer, hey, I love the guy. He hasn’t said a bad word about us and he’s actually really nice in person.

The crowd makes shout outs and I look over at Max. He’s starting to fidget. He rehearsed answers to certain questions with Costello but fans are unpredictable. As the end of the song nears Max asks to switch spots with Alex so he can be a bit more comfortable. Which, of course is a mistake.

Rule number one of having a successful interview: Never stand it you’re nervous. It allows the cameras to catch just how jumpy and on edge you may be.

The camera switches back to us as Max takes the final step to stand behind me. Uh oh. He looks a bit shaky. I feel the stool shift from beneath me sending me backwards. I squeeze my eyes shut and wait to feel the pain of my body hitting the floor, but instead only my butt hits the floor. I open my eyes and notice that the top half of my body is on top of Max, and his arms are around my bare waist.

The whole studio is quiet. I look up at Max and I feel so bad for him, he looks absolutely humiliated. Breaking the tension in the room, Alex and Kyle start laughing. I shoo Bryan’s hand away when he attempts to help me up. I wasn’t being mean, I’m a big girl, I sit up on my own. Well, I could if Max would let go of me.

“Are you okay?” I ask Max when I’m back on the stool and he’s brushing himself off.

“Hah, I’m fine. What about you? I am so sorry.” We keep our voices low, I don’t know why though, our microphones are pinned right on our shirts.

“I’m okay.” I look away from his warm amber eyes and I see Alex and Kyle still shaking with laughter, and Bryan still looks kinda serious.

“Well, Max. What a way to avoid questions. Are you sure you’re okay Liz?”

“I’m fine Bryan, Max is my hero! He let me fall on him. Of course he is also the one who knocked me over but it’s all good.” I say as I lightly punch Max in the arm. “I’m sure Max here is all right too.” I laugh it off in hopes that Max will follow suit, but to be completely honest I think I’ve only managed to make him feel worse. When will I learn to keep my mouth shut?

“So, we’ll hand it off to Candace, is it? For the first question.” The girl stands up and clutches the mike.

“Okay, hi guys! I’m Candace from Maine, and I was just wondering, Max? What’s it like to just jump into an already successful band?”

“It just feels like I cheated the system. I didn’t have to start out playing on the streets or anything.” Good boy. Short and concise.

“Hello, my name is Ashley and I wanted to know the answer to the question that most of us girls here are thinking. Boxers or briefs?” Max turns ten shades of red and Alex and Kyle make it a point to turn and laugh at me. Noooooo, they aren’t directing attention my way…. Dumbasses. An image of Max in his plaid boxers comes back into my mind and I’m sure I’m blushing just as much as Max.

“Uhh… boxers.” Haha. That sounded so pitiful.

“Any other questions?” Bryan asks.

“I’m Erin, and my question is, I know you all attended West Roswell High, but were you all friends or even acquaintances?”

“I’ll take this one.” Kyle raises his hand. This is amazing considering that through out school all the teachers thought he was incapable of doing so. “You all know that Maria, Liz, Alex and myself were an inseparable group. But Max buddy was in a higher tier. I mean in sophomore year the guy got nom’d and elected class president without ever saying a word campaign wise. But I guess it helps when you’re tall, dark, and have mysterious eyes. For some reason that seems to go over real well with the ladies.”

“Actually not entirely true.” Alex interrupts holding up a single finger. “I fit those requirements but I never got in well with girls. I guess I just don’t work the whole mysterious eyes thing as well as our bassist here.” As I notice the redness in Max’s face isn’t ebbing in the least bit I give him a reassuring smile, and I get a pathetic little smile in return.

“No. Whitman, put us together and we would have owned that school. I got the moves, you got the words, I have the build, and you have the height. We would have rocked their alien based world!”

Everyone bursts out laughing at their banter, and Alex and Kyle pout. “We were serious.” As if on cue a group of girls scream, “You rock our world!” Sending us into another laughing fit. Max actually seems to be calming down.

As soon as it dies down they continue to ask questions, most in regards to Max.

“When we come back from break we’re going to be the first to hear the first single from their upcoming album “Catalyst”.”

During the break the group runs out and we all manage to squeeze into the tiny picture booth. The group picture has me on Alex’s lap leaning back in between him and Max, and Kyle on the end. Kyle and Alex are making faces and the camera caught me and Max laughing at them. We quickly get a picture of each of us done in there and we head back out onto the stage where they are currently showing the latest BSB video at number one.

Max’s Point of View

Bryan introduces our song. And Alex starts off playing the drums. Seconds after Kyle starts on the keyboard at the same time Liz and I start. She begins to sing and I find myself still in awe of her voice. I can’t even describe it. It’s not a blend of any two artists voices, it’s uniquely her own.

“Fall back
Take a look at me
And you'll see I'm for real
I feel what only I can feel
And if that don't appeal to you
Let me know
And I'll go
'Cuz I flow
Better when my colors show
And that's the way it has to be
Honestly
'Cuz creativity could never bloom
In my room
I'd throw it all away before I lie
So don't call me with a compromise
Hang up the phone
I've got a backbone stronger than yours”

Normally when I play the bass I close my eyes, but I can’t. I can’t stop watching the way Liz expertly plays her guitar and sings the lyrics. She is just so entrancing.

Before she starts the chorus she turns around and gives us a thumbs up. I can’t stop the lazy smile that forms on face. The crowd is bouncing to the music and it just feels awesome.

“If you're trying to turn me into someone else
Its easy to see I'm not down with that
I'm not nobody's fool
If you're trying to turn me into something else
I've seen enough and I'm over that
I'm not nobody's fool
If you wanna bring me down
Go ahead and try
Go ahead and try

You don't know
You think you know me like yourself
But I fear
That you're only telling me what I wanna hear
But do you give a damn
Understand
That I can't not be what I am
I'm not the milk and cheerios in your spoon
Its not a simple hearing but not so soon
I might've fallen for that when I was fourteen
And a little more green
But its amazing what a couple of years can mean”

When I notice the camera pointing at me I divert my attention away from Liz and to my fingers swiftly playing the chords.

“If you're trying to turn me into someone else
Its easy to see I'm not down with that
I'm not nobody's fool
If you're trying to turn me into something else
I've seen enough and I'm over that
I'm not nobody's fool
If you wanna bring me down
Go ahead and try
Go ahead and try

Go ahead and try
Try and look me in the eye
But you'll never see inside
Until you realize, realize
Things are trying to settle down
Just try to figure out
Exactly what I'm about
If its with or without you
I don't need you doubting me”

To think they started out as the Whit’s playing for the bigger teen hangouts in Roswell.

“Would you be laughing out loud
If I played to my own crowd
Try”

We say our ‘Thank you’s’ after the applause and Liz signs a couple autographs. Liz nudges me and yells up that we’re about to leave so that we can get to the photo shoot for the cd cover. Ugh. No more make-up.

Alex and Kyle jog to the exit waving as they go, and Liz blows kisses to the audience as she grabs my hand and pulls me along.

Liz’s abrupt stop causes me to bump into her, slightly moving her from her spot. She just laughs making me feel better. She smiles and lets go of my hand.

Of course before we make it out of the building, Bryan (hear my disgust?) has to chase after Liz to say good bye. Go figure.

*************
Avril Lavigne "Nobody's Fool"

posted on 29-Jul-2002 4:34:48 PM
JBehrsGirl this story is over on the writing board also, I'm just posting all the parts to all the stories I have over here so everyone can find everything a bit easier.

Thanks for the feedback!
posted on 2-Aug-2002 10:32:42 PM
Chapter Four
Max’s Point of View

I sit back and watch as Chase Wilson, the photographer, had Liz casually lean against the black wall. Me? I refused. I don’t want to impose. I put nothing towards the actual cd, so why should I be allowed? Since the art to the cd looks empty compared to the rest they’ve called Maria and she’s doing a quick shoot to have sent to the company.

Liz poses in all different ways while looking up into the camera. She’s got it down. She can look happy without smiling. She can look serious without pouting to any degree. Hell, she just intrigues the hell out of me. Then again she never really had a problem doing that.

What am I talking about?

Even in high school she caught my eye. She was quiet, and incredibly intelligent. She really never ceased to amaze me. In tenth grade English, we had to write a short story and present it to the class. Hers kicked ass. It had no filler, it wasn’t gushy, and it wasn’t gory. It was simply, her. It had a teenagers rise to stardom documented. So far she has lived that story herself. Small town to big time.

She has changed though, her eyes are a bit wider as she still takes in everything like it’s new. Her posture shows the confidence she never had back in high school. And her smile shows that she still finds it all fun. Not that I knew her all that well in school. As Kyle put it so nicely in the TRL interview, they were in a lower tier of popularity. Not that I would be the one to really pay attention to the whole social ranks, but being brother to the Ice Princess, and all. Well, you know.

She was supposed to be my lab partner in Biology, but Tess Harding came into class late and voila! Instant lab partner. Then of course Isabel decided to play match maker. It did wonders for my popularity, miracles for my esteem, and trashed the way I thought of myself. Suddenly my name was paired with hers, and she hung on my every word. We only recently broke up. She muttered something about our differences and walked out. Eh, whatever. If I could get over this insane infatuation with this 5’3 brunette standing in front of me all will be well.

Standing in front of me?

“Yoohoo? Earth to Max!” I straighten up and tell her she has my attention.

“That’s good. Were we just flying in outer space?”

“Something like that.” I say. As you can tell I’m not too great with the whole comeback/quip thing.

“Anyway, as I was saying until I realized you were an astronaut, is that the group usually goes to Infierno the local club, to help relax, so here I am extending the invitation to you. The guys would really like to be able to get to know you better.”

Ummm… Dance club? This white man can’t dance. Not that she needs to know that or anything.

“Actually, if it’s okay I’m going to head back to the house. You know? Finish unpacking and all that good stuff.”

“Yeah, I’m sure this is still a bit much to take in.”

Alex and Kyle finish their solo shots and walk over to where Liz and I are standing.

“Hey Liz.” Alex says as he comes up and puts his arm around Liz shoulders. He nods his head towards me and I do the same.

“Hey Alex. Where’s Kyle?”

“Right here babe.” Kyle answers as he drapes his arms across Alex’s shoulders. Which is actually amusing, considering the fact that Alex is a good four inches taller than Kyle, but what really does it is Alex’s look.

“How many times have I told you not to do anything like that in public?”

“Sorry, you’re just so irresistible.” He says quickly pinching Alex, as he removes his arm. All four of us let out a laugh for a good minute or so, before Alex says that tonight just won’t be the same.

“So Max? Has Liz asked you yet?”

“About the club?”

“Yeah.”

“Yeah, but my excitement over today has taken it’s toll. I’m just gone head back.”

“Fine, leave me and Alex to prowl all on our own. I mean even Liz is ditching us.”

Liz’s Point of View

No, I didn’t plan it this way. So don’t even look at me accusingly.

Suddenly it gets quiet, but not because of something awkward just because something has caught Alex and Kyle’s attention. Okay, so it may not be awkward for them but for me it is. I can’t figure out what Max is thinking, and I really want to know. Is he upset he won’t be alone? Was he just using it as a cover so he can go meet someone? Of course I could always just be reading too much into this and he really could just be tired.

Huh, imagine that. Me? Over analyzing? Haha. Never.

“Alex, man? Do you see what I see?”

“Yeah, dude.” Ummm…??? What?

I follow their line of view and I find none other than Pink. Pink is the object of their desire. This is bad. Last time we met her Alex and Kyle made absolute fools of themselves, of course she’s an awesome person and laughed it off saying they were too cute.

Alex told her to dominate him, and Kyle plead saying, and I quote, “Make me your bi-otch”. No. I am not kidding. I’m really scared to see what will happen when they actually get into serious relationships.

But, those are my odd friends, and I love them.

After the initial shock, both guys attempt to pull Max over to meet her so they have an excuse, but he politely refuses.

Defeated they make their way over to her alone, and without reason for bugging her. I watch as she begins to laugh at something, one of them probably has drool hanging from the corner of his mouth. Either way she puts her arms around their waists and walks with them over towards the cameras. With a quick wave Alex signals to me that they are going to stay here. I sign the documents mentioning something about the studios rights to release the photos to the care of the lab, and then they can be used for promotional purposes after the cd is released. I don’t understand all the mumbo jumbo, but our manager gives me the okay and I sign.

The ride back to the house? Silent. I have nothing remotely intelligent to say to Max so I keep my mouth shut in fear of coming out with something along the lines of, “Ummm….. so… do you have a girlfriend?”

We make our way back into the house and immediately head to our rooms.

Max’s Point of View

What the hell was I supposed to say? “So what’s up with you and that Bryan guy?” Umm… let’s think about that. Not.

So what did I do? I opted to seem non-sociable. Yup. I’m a genius. Now after twelve years of education is out of the way you’d think I’d be able to come up with one worth while thing to say during a fifteen minute drive. But of course not.

I finish changing into a tank top and shorts before heading out of the room. Wandering into the living room I hear the television with Wheel of Fortune on. Liz is yelling out, “An ‘l’ dumbass, you want an ‘l’!”

Of course the player asks for a ‘q’. Who ever wants a ‘q’ in wheel of fortune?

I join Liz on the couch and she gives me a smile.

“So, you glad to be home?”

“I’m still not used to being here, it’s not home. But I’m sure it will be soon enough.”

“Well, as long as you’re comfortable.”

“Oh, it’s not that. It’s just it’s so fast paced. I mean come on, we came from a hole in the wall town, and after today it just proves that it’s going to take a bit to get used to it.”

“Yeah. It’ll get better. But tomorrow we actually fly out to San Francisco. Promotional stuff. By the way did Costello remember to tell you what we’re doing for the rest of the week? Because you look completely lost.”

“I guess he forgot.” I say. Just what else is planned?

“Well, the calendar in the kitchen has everything that’s planned for the next few months. That’s where to look, because as soon as anyone learns anything new it goes up there.”

“Okay. Thanks.”

“Tomorrow we get to play with Good Charlotte. I have been waiting to meet them for like forever.”

Umm… who?

“Yeah, they’re cool.” She just smiles and looks back at the screen.

“Mary had a little lamb chop.” I look up and sure enough it fits. But what amazes me is that she guessed it with only the a, y, t’s, and o. She’s good.

When it goes to commercial Liz stands up to go get Teddy Grahams, and an advertisement comes on for the ten o’clock news. It’s silent and when I realize what they are showing I don’t know whether to be completely embarrassed or laugh.

I go for being completely mortified. There on the television screen is my debut. You remember the part where I tripped and made Liz fall backwards? Yeah well, everyone knows. It’s even in slow motion. I can see her eyes squeeze as she knows what’s about to happen, and then her mouth makes an “o” shape when she hits the ground.

I see her walking back in and she stops in her tracks.

“You saw the news commercial?” She asks. She knows about it already?

“Yeah.”

“Yeah, well they’ve been showing it in slow motion during every commercial break. Congrats! You’re a big hit!”

Yay me.