Chapter 10:
THE WEDDING-
        "LIZ! Liz! Help me with the zipper!" Maria was running around trying to get her shoes on. Liz ran after her trying to zip up her long wedding dress.
        "Oh God. Is everything all set?"
        "Yes, Maria it's all taken care of." Liz smiled at her best friend. This couldn't be happening.
        "This is it Lizzie. I'm doing it." Maria looked at her beautiful best friend. There was no one she loved more. She hated to see Liz alone, especially with Max at cuddling distance.
        "I know. And I know that you guys will be happy. I wish you all the best. You deserve it all and more."
        "I love you Liz." The two hugged and Maria broke out in tears. Liz choked hers back. She would not get emotional.
        "Maria stop. You're going to mess up your make-up." Maria laughed at Liz's first ever vain comment. It was humorous how she could think of mascara at such a moment. Suddenly, Isabel walked in, her green and gold gown shaping her beautifully, her hair slicked back with gel, her makeup perfectly done. They all had on the same jewelry. A set of small golden moons as earrings, and small necklaces with a moon pendant. It was their friendship tags. Isabel had been inaugurated into their tight friendship circle as of that day.
        "Ready?" Isabel smiled, recognizing Maria's statement.
        "I feel like I'm gonna pass out."
        "I know. It feels that way... but it'll pass. The feeling I mean... not you." Isabel laughed and the girls laughed with her. This was an incredible moment for them all.
        "Thank you Isabel, for helping me."
        "Hey you helped me... it was the least I could do for all you've done for us." She hugged Maria tightly and then looked at Liz.Â
        "And you. You are amazing... you know that? You accepted us, no questions asked. You haven't told our secret since. Why?" Liz smiled.Â
        "And ruin my reputation as one of the few on Earth to have a TRUE alien encounter? Please." Isabel smiled and hugged Liz too.Â
        "I'm looking forward to your wedding Liz."
        "Don't hold your breath."
        "It'll come sooner than you think." Isabel smiled secretly. She had dream walked Max the night before and knew that he was breaking. His heart was giving in to feelings beyond his control. He wanted Liz, he needed her. He'd have to have her. Maria looked up at the clock and breathed in deeply.Â
        "Where's Katie?"
        "She said she was getting ready at home and Kyle would drop her off when she was done."
        "Ok. So then I guess this is it. It's time."
        "Let's go."
        "Ok hold on, I'm freaking out." Liz and Isabel laughed as they dragged Maria out to the limousine.
        They sat in the back room of the ceremonial hall and waited as Katie ran in.Â
        "Sorry I'm late! I had a late shift at the hospital and ran late! I'm so sorry!" Her blonde curls were bouncing around as she put her shoes on. She looked perfect as well. Amy walked in, her light golden dress enhancing her creamy features. She had never looked prouder.
        "Oh... my baby girl is getting married. I can't deal, I can't."
        "Mom. It's ok. I'm gonna stay in Roswell."
        "Oh, I love you!" Amy hugged her daughter tightly and fixed up some loose strands of hair. Maria looked like a doll. Her long blonde hair was back, some loose curls in the front, the rest of the hair pinned into a twist that was covered by her tiara and veil. Her dress was slim fitting and a little below the knee, a sheer lace covering making up the rest of the dress. The sleeves, the length of the skirt, it was all in white lace. Her creamy stockings and white shoes made her look like a picture perfect bride. Her lips a peachy pink, her eyes powdery and golden, just like all her bridesmaids.Â
        Liz had golden eye shadow, burgundy lipstick and glittery blush. Isabel and Katie both had golden shadow and nude, glossy colored lip gloss. They all looked absolutely amazing. Now they needed to see the men. As they prepared, a silent knock came to the door.
        "Who?"
        "It's Kyle." They opened the door and Kyle stepped in, a gift in hand. He smiled at all the ladies, pleased at how beautiful they all looked. He looked at Maria, the most amazing she'd ever looked, and smiled. He handed her the box.
        "A little something from us guys. We know this is a really important day for you, and we wish you all the happiness in the world. You deserve it after all." Maria smiled and hugged Kyle. He kissed her cheek and walked out to wait with the others. Maria opened the box and her eyes widened.
        "What is it!?" Maria pulled out a red lace and silk lingerie.
        "Oh, naughty!" Katie joked as Isabel and Liz laughed at Kyle's joke.
        "Wait 'til I get him." The music began and Maria looked up alarmed.
        "Oh God... I can't do this."
        "You'll be fine. Come on, let's go make you Mrs. Michael Guerin."
        "That's what I'm worried about!" Maria joked and finally they made their way to the main hall. They looked out the doors where they'd have to line up and saw the garden all set up. The restaurant they were using had allowed for use of the gazebo by the river, all the seats facing the water right as the sun hit it. It was incredible.
        The line up began as Alexandra and Eliza went down the row, throwing rose petals all over the ground. Katie and Kyle went down next. The place was full of balloons and white chairs. Family and friends gathered, not too many, but just enough to make the feeling just right. Isabel and Jesse followed, the most amazing and serene feeling coming over them. Amy and Jim walked in next, tears already in their eyes, proud looks on their faces. Sean sat off in the chairs, eager to see his cousin on the most important day of her life. Billy also sat, waiting, sure that she would look absolutely incredible. She was happy, and that's all he ever wanted for Maria. Some other friends from school were around. Ava was in the back, her hair done well, her make up subtle, her clothes decent and respectable. Some teachers sat and watched. It was just what she had always wanted.
        Then Liz walked up the doors; Max came up beside her. His breath caught in his throat. She looked like an angel. She had a glow about her that made him feel like he couldn't really touch her. It was magical. She looked up at him, her eyes suddenly sad, and they locked arms and began their trod down the aisle. Everyone awaited eagerly, seeing Liz's entrance as a signal of Maria's upcoming. Max kept looking over at Liz. His eyes betraying his emotion. He loved her. It was that moment, that realization that made him feel completely helpless. He looked back ahead, to focus on walking, but his spare hand came up to his arm to cover Liz's fingers lovingly. She looked up at him, her necklace glistening, and suddenly he remembered something. It came quickly to his mind, the vision so clear and strong he felt he might be knocked off his feet. Vegas came back into his head. The Elvis Chapel. Their wedding. He saw Liz, in her big wedding dress as he picked her up and carried her out of the cab, like they'd just been married in Vegas. It was an upsetting feeling, an empty one. He wanted to be walking down the aisle with her now. To be marrying her now. Her look was as intoxicating as the incense burning on the sides of oranges and strawberries. The sun was right in the middle of the sky as they reached the sides. He didn't want to let her hand go. He never wanted to let her go. She pulled away and finally Maria walked up.Â
        Jim went and escorted her slowly down the aisle. Michael stood straight, obviously a little nervous, but looking handsome as ever. His hair was trimmed, slicked back, his face clean and shaven. His tuxedo looked amazing as he waited for the love of his life. She looked amazing. He tried to memorize her look in his mind. He never wanted to forget how he felt right at that moment. Maria walked up and kissed Jim on the cheek. Michael grabbed her soft hand and squeezed softly. She looked up through her veil, her blue eyes glistening like the river behind them. He felt his heart stop. This was perfection and true happiness. Max stared at Michael knowing nothing would ever be the same. Michael was settling down. Things had changed. And he was left to make an important decision. The talk was given, vows exchanged. Michael smiled as he place the ring on Maria's finger.
        "I don't expect you to be some preppy house wife, I just expect you to love me unconditionally, the way I've always loved you. To put up with my nonsense, but keep me in line, the way you always do. To look at me with those open eyes of yours, and let me see you for the rest of the days of my life." He gave her his half grin and she cried softly as Liz began to cry as well. Maria pulled out her ring and nervously placed it on Michael's hand.
        "I don't want the perfect husband. What would be the fun in that? I just want you. Michael, you are all I've ever known. All I've ever wanted. And I want to be with you, through good and bad, through thick and thin, through weird and weirder." She smiled, her point across to those who knew her well. It was true, they were perfect for each other. Finally, they were pronounced officially, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Guerin. The crowd cheered as they kissed. This would be one of the best days of their lives.
        The reception was just about beginning, everyone sitting patiently at their tables in Chez Pierre. The table held the cake, a small bride and a small groom with a small alien in the middle. It was Amy's idea of course. If she had only known how perfect it was for the occasion, she would have probably refrained from putting it there. They all waited in back to be announced again to the waiting crowd. Liz and Max stood side by side, not having said a word to each other all afternoon. They filed in and the crowd mingled and congratulated. It was warm and fun. The music played and the dancing began. Maria and Michael danced softly, Plumb's "Stranded" played in the background. Liz sat, her parents had gone on to help feed the guests, and she was deep in thought when she saw the hand in front of her.
        "Dance with me?" Max stood, clean cut, face smooth and shaven, hair slicked back neatly, looking just like the teenage boy who had stolen her heart eight years ago with one touch. There was too much about him. Too much to feel. She got up and they went to the dance floor. He held her waist as they danced and felt her heart beat against his chest.
        "You look beautiful."
        "Thank you. You look great yourself." Liz smiled shyly as she pulled back to look into his eyes. The moment she did, she regretted it. There was something in his eyes that scared her. An emotion she'd seen before, but was mixed with something dangerous.
        "Liz..."
        "Max?" They stared into each other's eyes and Max's eyes watered. How could he tell her all he was feeling at the time?
        "There's something I've wanted to do since I saw you again." He leaned down and kissed her, their lips touching so softly, it felt like a soft breeze. They pulled away, as if debating whether or not this was a move they were ready to make. This had been their first kiss in four days, since Max had been there and it seemed like a magnetic attraction was pulling them together again. Max pressed his lips against hers again, this time with more pressure, his passion bubbling over. He could control himself. He kept repeating it to himself. He would not lose himself in her. He could not. But the taste of her lips was rousing feelings he thought he'd never feel again. Thoughts he never thought he'd have. He wanted her to be his wife. He wanted Ellie as his beautiful baby girl. He wanted a family. Their pain and hurt was in that kiss, making it bittersweet. He pulled away softly, and as he looked into her eyes he said it.
        "I love you Liz Parker. More than my own life." Her eyes watered and she began to cry as he kissed her again, and he held her face in his hands lovingly. Eliza walked up and smiled up at her parents. Finally, they were together again. She hugged their legs from the floor and they looked down at her and smiled. Max picked her up and he and Liz held her as they danced. Maria looked over from her table, and nudged Michael in the ribs.
        "Ow! The abuse is starting already?"
        "Funny. Look..." She pointed over at the dance floor and Michael saw the family. Eliza had her arms wrapped around Max's neck, he had his arms around Liz's waist, Liz was holding Eliza up. They looked like they'd been that way forever.Â
        "I think we did it."
        "There was no question we could." Michael smiled and kissed his wife. The hours passed and Michael and Maria were ready to go. Everyone said good-bye as they prepared for their Vegas honeymoon. Liz hugged her friend tightly and tried to refrain from crying.
        "I'm gonna miss you."
        "NO, you won't."
        "Yes, I will!"
        "Ok, well maybe a little." Maria laughed and hugged Liz again. "Looks like you'll be occupied yourself." Maria looked over at Max who was saying good-bye to Michael.
        "No."
        "Shh... don't try to fight it." Maria's words struck a chord in Liz. Maybe it was time to just give in. Kyle came up to Maria and hugged her tightly.
        "Have fun. And don't forget my little gift." He snickered and she hugged him tighter.
        "If I ever get alien powers, I'm gonna zap you." Maria whispered menacingly into his ear and he laughed. Finally, they made their way out. Eliza ran up to her mother and tugged softly on her dress.
        "Can I stay at Grandma and Grandpa's tonight?"
        "Well..."
        "Please!?"
        "Did you ask them?"
        "Yes."
        "I guess so. Although I'll be all by my lonesome."
        "Daddy will stay with you." Liz's smile faded as she thought of what her daughter had just said. Did she think they'd be together? Things didn't happen that way. She couldn't lead her daughter to believe that.
        "Honey, Daddy is going home soon, he's not staying with us."
        "Maybe. Maybe not." Eliza smiled and Jeffrey and Nancy called out to her. She hugged her mother and waved good-bye. Suddenly, Liz felt completely alone. She looked down and as she turned around she bumped right into Max.Â
        "You ok?"
        "I've been better."
        "They'll be back, you know."
        "I know.... but will you?" Liz's eyes pleaded with the question she'd been fighting for days. Max kissed Liz without answering her question. Not much later, they'd bid everyone good-bye as he took her home. She seemed truly upset and needed to relax. He walked in and closed the door behind them. She took off her shoes and walked over to her room. He followed closely behind her as she threw them in the corner of the room and threw herself on her bed. Max went and sat next to her, looking down at her tired eyes.Â
        "Liz, maybe you should get some rest."
        "I'm not tired. I'm just depressed. There's a difference."
        "I hate to see you like this."
        "I'm alone. I knew I'd end up alone."
        "You're not alone Liz. You're never alone." She sat up and shook her head in disagreement.
        "You don't understand, no one does."
        "I understand that you're beautiful and you shouldn't look so helpless. There's so many people who love you and like to see you happy."
        "Yea, and they're gone. I miss Ellie."
        "What am I chopped liver?" Max looked at her, a hurt statement on his face.
        "Basically." She looked back up to see his shocked look and smiled. She had just said a joke. Not all hope was lost.
        "You aren't very nice to me."
        "So?"
        "You should be nice... I am in fact your only company."
        "You can leave." Liz was serious. It had been all in fun, but her face expressed her feelings. She couldn't be more serious.
        "I'm not leaving you like this." Liz's sarcastic face told Max what she was going to say next. What she was going to bring up. The past that kept haunting them. She opened her mouth to speak, but instead felt Max's finger on her lips.
        "Shhh. No more talking." He kissed her lips and then the overwhelming feelings came over him. They were in her apartment. Alone. And here was Liz, the love of his life. The mother of his child. The one woman who had accepted him and loved him with every molecule in her being, no questions asked. His soul mate. He had to kiss her. He just couldn't help himself. As they kissed he felt the memories flood him. The night at Buckeley Point. The blue and satin sheets of Eliza's bed chambers. Their heat wave kiss. Their moments were all... magical. He held her in his arms and loved her like it was their last night on earth.
THE WEDDING-
        "LIZ! Liz! Help me with the zipper!" Maria was running around trying to get her shoes on. Liz ran after her trying to zip up her long wedding dress.
        "Oh God. Is everything all set?"
        "Yes, Maria it's all taken care of." Liz smiled at her best friend. This couldn't be happening.
        "This is it Lizzie. I'm doing it." Maria looked at her beautiful best friend. There was no one she loved more. She hated to see Liz alone, especially with Max at cuddling distance.
        "I know. And I know that you guys will be happy. I wish you all the best. You deserve it all and more."
        "I love you Liz." The two hugged and Maria broke out in tears. Liz choked hers back. She would not get emotional.
        "Maria stop. You're going to mess up your make-up." Maria laughed at Liz's first ever vain comment. It was humorous how she could think of mascara at such a moment. Suddenly, Isabel walked in, her green and gold gown shaping her beautifully, her hair slicked back with gel, her makeup perfectly done. They all had on the same jewelry. A set of small golden moons as earrings, and small necklaces with a moon pendant. It was their friendship tags. Isabel had been inaugurated into their tight friendship circle as of that day.
        "Ready?" Isabel smiled, recognizing Maria's statement.
        "I feel like I'm gonna pass out."
        "I know. It feels that way... but it'll pass. The feeling I mean... not you." Isabel laughed and the girls laughed with her. This was an incredible moment for them all.
        "Thank you Isabel, for helping me."
        "Hey you helped me... it was the least I could do for all you've done for us." She hugged Maria tightly and then looked at Liz.Â
        "And you. You are amazing... you know that? You accepted us, no questions asked. You haven't told our secret since. Why?" Liz smiled.Â
        "And ruin my reputation as one of the few on Earth to have a TRUE alien encounter? Please." Isabel smiled and hugged Liz too.Â
        "I'm looking forward to your wedding Liz."
        "Don't hold your breath."
        "It'll come sooner than you think." Isabel smiled secretly. She had dream walked Max the night before and knew that he was breaking. His heart was giving in to feelings beyond his control. He wanted Liz, he needed her. He'd have to have her. Maria looked up at the clock and breathed in deeply.Â
        "Where's Katie?"
        "She said she was getting ready at home and Kyle would drop her off when she was done."
        "Ok. So then I guess this is it. It's time."
        "Let's go."
        "Ok hold on, I'm freaking out." Liz and Isabel laughed as they dragged Maria out to the limousine.
        They sat in the back room of the ceremonial hall and waited as Katie ran in.Â
        "Sorry I'm late! I had a late shift at the hospital and ran late! I'm so sorry!" Her blonde curls were bouncing around as she put her shoes on. She looked perfect as well. Amy walked in, her light golden dress enhancing her creamy features. She had never looked prouder.
        "Oh... my baby girl is getting married. I can't deal, I can't."
        "Mom. It's ok. I'm gonna stay in Roswell."
        "Oh, I love you!" Amy hugged her daughter tightly and fixed up some loose strands of hair. Maria looked like a doll. Her long blonde hair was back, some loose curls in the front, the rest of the hair pinned into a twist that was covered by her tiara and veil. Her dress was slim fitting and a little below the knee, a sheer lace covering making up the rest of the dress. The sleeves, the length of the skirt, it was all in white lace. Her creamy stockings and white shoes made her look like a picture perfect bride. Her lips a peachy pink, her eyes powdery and golden, just like all her bridesmaids.Â
        Liz had golden eye shadow, burgundy lipstick and glittery blush. Isabel and Katie both had golden shadow and nude, glossy colored lip gloss. They all looked absolutely amazing. Now they needed to see the men. As they prepared, a silent knock came to the door.
        "Who?"
        "It's Kyle." They opened the door and Kyle stepped in, a gift in hand. He smiled at all the ladies, pleased at how beautiful they all looked. He looked at Maria, the most amazing she'd ever looked, and smiled. He handed her the box.
        "A little something from us guys. We know this is a really important day for you, and we wish you all the happiness in the world. You deserve it after all." Maria smiled and hugged Kyle. He kissed her cheek and walked out to wait with the others. Maria opened the box and her eyes widened.
        "What is it!?" Maria pulled out a red lace and silk lingerie.
        "Oh, naughty!" Katie joked as Isabel and Liz laughed at Kyle's joke.
        "Wait 'til I get him." The music began and Maria looked up alarmed.
        "Oh God... I can't do this."
        "You'll be fine. Come on, let's go make you Mrs. Michael Guerin."
        "That's what I'm worried about!" Maria joked and finally they made their way to the main hall. They looked out the doors where they'd have to line up and saw the garden all set up. The restaurant they were using had allowed for use of the gazebo by the river, all the seats facing the water right as the sun hit it. It was incredible.
        The line up began as Alexandra and Eliza went down the row, throwing rose petals all over the ground. Katie and Kyle went down next. The place was full of balloons and white chairs. Family and friends gathered, not too many, but just enough to make the feeling just right. Isabel and Jesse followed, the most amazing and serene feeling coming over them. Amy and Jim walked in next, tears already in their eyes, proud looks on their faces. Sean sat off in the chairs, eager to see his cousin on the most important day of her life. Billy also sat, waiting, sure that she would look absolutely incredible. She was happy, and that's all he ever wanted for Maria. Some other friends from school were around. Ava was in the back, her hair done well, her make up subtle, her clothes decent and respectable. Some teachers sat and watched. It was just what she had always wanted.
        Then Liz walked up the doors; Max came up beside her. His breath caught in his throat. She looked like an angel. She had a glow about her that made him feel like he couldn't really touch her. It was magical. She looked up at him, her eyes suddenly sad, and they locked arms and began their trod down the aisle. Everyone awaited eagerly, seeing Liz's entrance as a signal of Maria's upcoming. Max kept looking over at Liz. His eyes betraying his emotion. He loved her. It was that moment, that realization that made him feel completely helpless. He looked back ahead, to focus on walking, but his spare hand came up to his arm to cover Liz's fingers lovingly. She looked up at him, her necklace glistening, and suddenly he remembered something. It came quickly to his mind, the vision so clear and strong he felt he might be knocked off his feet. Vegas came back into his head. The Elvis Chapel. Their wedding. He saw Liz, in her big wedding dress as he picked her up and carried her out of the cab, like they'd just been married in Vegas. It was an upsetting feeling, an empty one. He wanted to be walking down the aisle with her now. To be marrying her now. Her look was as intoxicating as the incense burning on the sides of oranges and strawberries. The sun was right in the middle of the sky as they reached the sides. He didn't want to let her hand go. He never wanted to let her go. She pulled away and finally Maria walked up.Â
        Jim went and escorted her slowly down the aisle. Michael stood straight, obviously a little nervous, but looking handsome as ever. His hair was trimmed, slicked back, his face clean and shaven. His tuxedo looked amazing as he waited for the love of his life. She looked amazing. He tried to memorize her look in his mind. He never wanted to forget how he felt right at that moment. Maria walked up and kissed Jim on the cheek. Michael grabbed her soft hand and squeezed softly. She looked up through her veil, her blue eyes glistening like the river behind them. He felt his heart stop. This was perfection and true happiness. Max stared at Michael knowing nothing would ever be the same. Michael was settling down. Things had changed. And he was left to make an important decision. The talk was given, vows exchanged. Michael smiled as he place the ring on Maria's finger.
        "I don't expect you to be some preppy house wife, I just expect you to love me unconditionally, the way I've always loved you. To put up with my nonsense, but keep me in line, the way you always do. To look at me with those open eyes of yours, and let me see you for the rest of the days of my life." He gave her his half grin and she cried softly as Liz began to cry as well. Maria pulled out her ring and nervously placed it on Michael's hand.
        "I don't want the perfect husband. What would be the fun in that? I just want you. Michael, you are all I've ever known. All I've ever wanted. And I want to be with you, through good and bad, through thick and thin, through weird and weirder." She smiled, her point across to those who knew her well. It was true, they were perfect for each other. Finally, they were pronounced officially, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Guerin. The crowd cheered as they kissed. This would be one of the best days of their lives.
        The reception was just about beginning, everyone sitting patiently at their tables in Chez Pierre. The table held the cake, a small bride and a small groom with a small alien in the middle. It was Amy's idea of course. If she had only known how perfect it was for the occasion, she would have probably refrained from putting it there. They all waited in back to be announced again to the waiting crowd. Liz and Max stood side by side, not having said a word to each other all afternoon. They filed in and the crowd mingled and congratulated. It was warm and fun. The music played and the dancing began. Maria and Michael danced softly, Plumb's "Stranded" played in the background. Liz sat, her parents had gone on to help feed the guests, and she was deep in thought when she saw the hand in front of her.
        "Dance with me?" Max stood, clean cut, face smooth and shaven, hair slicked back neatly, looking just like the teenage boy who had stolen her heart eight years ago with one touch. There was too much about him. Too much to feel. She got up and they went to the dance floor. He held her waist as they danced and felt her heart beat against his chest.
        "You look beautiful."
        "Thank you. You look great yourself." Liz smiled shyly as she pulled back to look into his eyes. The moment she did, she regretted it. There was something in his eyes that scared her. An emotion she'd seen before, but was mixed with something dangerous.
        "Liz..."
        "Max?" They stared into each other's eyes and Max's eyes watered. How could he tell her all he was feeling at the time?
        "There's something I've wanted to do since I saw you again." He leaned down and kissed her, their lips touching so softly, it felt like a soft breeze. They pulled away, as if debating whether or not this was a move they were ready to make. This had been their first kiss in four days, since Max had been there and it seemed like a magnetic attraction was pulling them together again. Max pressed his lips against hers again, this time with more pressure, his passion bubbling over. He could control himself. He kept repeating it to himself. He would not lose himself in her. He could not. But the taste of her lips was rousing feelings he thought he'd never feel again. Thoughts he never thought he'd have. He wanted her to be his wife. He wanted Ellie as his beautiful baby girl. He wanted a family. Their pain and hurt was in that kiss, making it bittersweet. He pulled away softly, and as he looked into her eyes he said it.
        "I love you Liz Parker. More than my own life." Her eyes watered and she began to cry as he kissed her again, and he held her face in his hands lovingly. Eliza walked up and smiled up at her parents. Finally, they were together again. She hugged their legs from the floor and they looked down at her and smiled. Max picked her up and he and Liz held her as they danced. Maria looked over from her table, and nudged Michael in the ribs.
        "Ow! The abuse is starting already?"
        "Funny. Look..." She pointed over at the dance floor and Michael saw the family. Eliza had her arms wrapped around Max's neck, he had his arms around Liz's waist, Liz was holding Eliza up. They looked like they'd been that way forever.Â
        "I think we did it."
        "There was no question we could." Michael smiled and kissed his wife. The hours passed and Michael and Maria were ready to go. Everyone said good-bye as they prepared for their Vegas honeymoon. Liz hugged her friend tightly and tried to refrain from crying.
        "I'm gonna miss you."
        "NO, you won't."
        "Yes, I will!"
        "Ok, well maybe a little." Maria laughed and hugged Liz again. "Looks like you'll be occupied yourself." Maria looked over at Max who was saying good-bye to Michael.
        "No."
        "Shh... don't try to fight it." Maria's words struck a chord in Liz. Maybe it was time to just give in. Kyle came up to Maria and hugged her tightly.
        "Have fun. And don't forget my little gift." He snickered and she hugged him tighter.
        "If I ever get alien powers, I'm gonna zap you." Maria whispered menacingly into his ear and he laughed. Finally, they made their way out. Eliza ran up to her mother and tugged softly on her dress.
        "Can I stay at Grandma and Grandpa's tonight?"
        "Well..."
        "Please!?"
        "Did you ask them?"
        "Yes."
        "I guess so. Although I'll be all by my lonesome."
        "Daddy will stay with you." Liz's smile faded as she thought of what her daughter had just said. Did she think they'd be together? Things didn't happen that way. She couldn't lead her daughter to believe that.
        "Honey, Daddy is going home soon, he's not staying with us."
        "Maybe. Maybe not." Eliza smiled and Jeffrey and Nancy called out to her. She hugged her mother and waved good-bye. Suddenly, Liz felt completely alone. She looked down and as she turned around she bumped right into Max.Â
        "You ok?"
        "I've been better."
        "They'll be back, you know."
        "I know.... but will you?" Liz's eyes pleaded with the question she'd been fighting for days. Max kissed Liz without answering her question. Not much later, they'd bid everyone good-bye as he took her home. She seemed truly upset and needed to relax. He walked in and closed the door behind them. She took off her shoes and walked over to her room. He followed closely behind her as she threw them in the corner of the room and threw herself on her bed. Max went and sat next to her, looking down at her tired eyes.Â
        "Liz, maybe you should get some rest."
        "I'm not tired. I'm just depressed. There's a difference."
        "I hate to see you like this."
        "I'm alone. I knew I'd end up alone."
        "You're not alone Liz. You're never alone." She sat up and shook her head in disagreement.
        "You don't understand, no one does."
        "I understand that you're beautiful and you shouldn't look so helpless. There's so many people who love you and like to see you happy."
        "Yea, and they're gone. I miss Ellie."
        "What am I chopped liver?" Max looked at her, a hurt statement on his face.
        "Basically." She looked back up to see his shocked look and smiled. She had just said a joke. Not all hope was lost.
        "You aren't very nice to me."
        "So?"
        "You should be nice... I am in fact your only company."
        "You can leave." Liz was serious. It had been all in fun, but her face expressed her feelings. She couldn't be more serious.
        "I'm not leaving you like this." Liz's sarcastic face told Max what she was going to say next. What she was going to bring up. The past that kept haunting them. She opened her mouth to speak, but instead felt Max's finger on her lips.
        "Shhh. No more talking." He kissed her lips and then the overwhelming feelings came over him. They were in her apartment. Alone. And here was Liz, the love of his life. The mother of his child. The one woman who had accepted him and loved him with every molecule in her being, no questions asked. His soul mate. He had to kiss her. He just couldn't help himself. As they kissed he felt the memories flood him. The night at Buckeley Point. The blue and satin sheets of Eliza's bed chambers. Their heat wave kiss. Their moments were all... magical. He held her in his arms and loved her like it was their last night on earth.