Author: Sarah Y.
Title: The Return
Disclaimer: I don't own Roswell or any of the characters.
Rating: PG-13
Category: Michael and Maria
NOTE: AU, Michael and the other alien's left the planet. Alex is still alive. Tess was never pregnant. Michael and Maria still slept together before he left earth. Everything else is pretty much the same.
Summary: Michael, Tess, Max, and Isabel come back to earth after being away for two years. Michael finds out Maria was raped after he left and she has a son.
********Part 14*******
(A week later)
Maria was sitting in her US History class listing to the professor lecture when she felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned around to see one of the school's secretary's.
"Sorry to bother you but someone named Alex is on the phone and he says it's urgent.
Maria followed the secretary to the phone and she started panicking. Alex had been babysitting Dakota. The secretary handed Maria the phone.
"Is it Dakota?"
"I'm so sorry, Maria. I took him to the playground and I was swinging him in the swing shaped like an airplane when he fell out and hit his head on the pavement. He passed out for a few minutes. You need to get to the emergency room now!"
Maria heart was shattering. She raced back to the classroom to grab her purse and keys earning her curious faces from the rest of the class. She fumbled for her keys and drove straight to the emergency room. She finally arrived and raced into the entrance.
"I was told my child was here. His name is Dakota DeLuca. Where is he?"
"Maria!"
"Alex!"
"The doctor's in with Dakota now." Alex guided Maria into the small room.
Maria raced into the room seeing Dakota lying on the table. Se ran and scooped him in her arms. He had apparently awakened by now.
The doctor started talking. "Are you his mom?"
"Yes. How is he?"
"Dakota just has a slight concussion he should be fine. We actually took some blood test just to make sure everything was alright but it seems the lab made an error so we'll need to draw more blood."
"What do you mean the lab made an error?"
"The lab results show that the blood wasn't from a human. They probably just got the blood mixed up with one of the lab animals. The nurse here will draw more blood and we'll call you back with the results. You can take him home as soon as we're done."
The doctor then left the room. Maria got suspicious. The nurse took another sample from Dakota.
"I just ran out of band-aids. I'll be right back with one can you just hold the cotton on the wound until I come back."
"Sure," Maria said to the nurse.
As soon as the nurse left Maria grabbed the blood sample. "Alex check the door and see if anyone's looking we need to sneak out."
"Why?"
"Just do it Alex." Alex checked the door and didn't see the nurse or doctor anywhere around.
"The coast is clear."
They managed to make it outside the hospital.
"O.K. Maria what was that all about?"
"I'm not sure Alex but I'm going to drive my car and see Liz. I'll explain everything later."
Maria found Liz at the Crashdown. They went upstairs to her room and Liz confirmed the blood samples we're human cells.
"Oh my God Maria! This means Dakota isn't Austin's," Liz concluded.
"I've got to find Michael. Thanks Liz." Maria left smiling with a happy Dakota in hand.
Maria finally reached Michael's apartment and knocked on the door. Michael finally opened the door.
"Maria what are you doing here?" Michael said in an irritated voice.
"Michael there's something important I need to tell you. Can I come in?"
"Maria it's not a good time." Michael had the door closed behind him so Maria couldn't see inside.
Maria's couldn't wait to tell Michael he was Dakota's daddy. Her heart broke to have him acting this way. What was he hiding? Maybe he had another girl in his apartment she thought.
"I'm sorry Maria. It's just could you maybe come back in two hours or so and find a baby-sitter for Dakota."
Maria's thoughts were turning in her head. What if he doesn't want to be a father? Maria had no choice but to go home and wait.
Maria arrived at home and was pacing back and forth. What if Michael wanted to break things off with her? She had started to think Michael might want a relationship with her. After all they had been spending so much time together. *But what if I just misinterpreted his feelings for me. Maybe he just felt sorry for me. What if he can't deal with the fact that I was raped?*
"Maria why are you pacing?" Alex asked.
"Michael wants to see me in another hour and he asked me not to bring Dakota. I think he's going to break things off. Things might get ugly."
"I'll watch Dakota and I promise I won't take him to the park."
"Thanks Alex. It wasn't your fault what happened. In a way it was good because it proved Michael was Dakota's daddy. I only hope Michael still wants him."
"Maria I'm sure everything will be fine."
************Part 15***********
Two hours had passed and Maria finally arrived at Michael's house. She knocked on the door. Suddenly all of her fears about Michael breaking up with her started to overtake her. She couldn't take it. She turned and started to walk away hoping Michael didn't hear her knock. Her hopes where dashed as she heard the door open and someone step out. She realized she had to hear whatever Michael had to say.
"Maria," she heard him call her name.
"Can I come in now?" Maria turned around and looked at Michael stunned to see him in a black suit.
"I'm sorry about before but I just needed to get things ready."
"Michael what's going on?"
"Come in."
Michael guided Maria inside his apartment and Maria was shocked to see the whole living area surrounded with yellow roses, which were her favorite. She also noticed a table set up with Italian food and Scooby Doo plates just like the night before he had left. Suddenly fear struck Maria again but this time she was afraid he was leaving her again.
"Sit down, Maria. Please."
Maria was now utterly confused. "Michael what is it? Are you leaving again?"
Maria's eyes filled with tears but she was determined not to let them fall. She suddenly sat down on the couch and he sat down next to her.
"Maria I told you that night I never wanted to leave you and I meant it. Coming back only showed me how wrong it was to leave you. Maria I'm sorry for what happened to you. I should have been there."
"Michael it's not your fault," Maria interrupted.
"Let me finish. I should have been there and if you let me I'll always be there. To protect you and your son. I know I'm not perfect Maria. But I think I could be a good father for Dakota. I love you and I love him. He's part of you. Maria you're the only one I've ever let see me. You know every bad side to me, everything I've done wrong and you still love me. I want to show you I feel the same way."
"What are you saying?"
"I'm saying I want you to marry me."
Michael noticed Maria's surprised reaction.
"What's wrong Maria?"
"It's just I was afraid that you wanted to break things off we me. That you didn't love me anymore."
"Why did you think that?" a confused Michael asked.
"Well Michael you've been so sweet and everything, but you've treated me more like a friend. You haven't touched me in like forever."
"Maria I've wanted to more than anything. It's just I wasn't sure if you wanted me to. I was afraid once I started I couldn't stop. And I didn't want to pressure you. But I can't wait any longer I want to be with you, in every way."
Michael then pulled out a ring. It was a simple gold band with a tiny diamond in the middle.
"Maria I know it's not much but..."
"Michael it's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen." Maria launched herself at him and started kissing him. She then stopped to look in his eyes.
"I would be very proud to be Maria Deluca-Guerin." Michael looked at her strangely.
"What it's 2001? I'm keeping my last name and adding yours."
Michael smiled. "I don't care what your name is as long as you marry me."
"We'll are you going to put the ring on me or not?"
"Are you going to be this bossy once we're married."
"Of course. Why should marriage change anything," Maria teased.
Michael then held Maria's face in his hands and kissed her full on the mouth. Maria was so happy at that moment but then she remembered why she had come to Michael's apartment in the first place. Maria reluctantly broke the kiss.
"Michael, your Dakota's dad."
"I know, and we'll make it official when were married."
"No I mean you ARE his father."
"What are you talking about?"
"Dakota got in an accident and the doctor said his blood test got mixed up because his cells weren't human and I had Liz double check and it's true Michael he's yours if you want him."
Michael couldn't believe what she had said. Could it be possible? That him and his Maria had a child.
"Of course I want him."
Michael's face lit up in a smile Maria had never seen before. He looked so happy. "Maria I'm a daddy."
"I know Michael."
Michael smile quickly faded. "I missed 14 months of his life Maria. It's my fault. But I promise I'll never leave him or you ever again.
"I know Michael. I trust you."
Maria's lips were swollen from their previous kisses but Maria longed to have his mouth on hers again. She stopped herself from launching at him again.
"Maria?"
"Michael, just like our first night together I don't want to eat the salad."
"I thought you liked salad." Michael said not catching the hidden meaning behind her words."
"I love salad but that's not what I meant."
"Then what?" Michael asked.
"Michael it's been too long. I want to be with you again. I want to wake up in your arms and I never want to leave. I want you, now."
"Maria are you sure your ready?"
"Michael I am so grateful that you were my first. And no matter what happened to me it can't change how much I need you now. Michael you're the only one who can take the pain away and make me happy again. I want you to touch me." Maria then took his hands in hers and guided it to the zipper in back of her dress. "Please, Michael."
Michael couldn't believe how lucky he was. She was begging him to make love to her. All of his dreams had come true. He was a father and soon he would be Maria's husband.
Maria awoke in Michael's arms. She looked up to see him smiling at her.
"How long have you been awake?"
"Awhile. I just wanted to look at you. I can't believe you agreed to marry me."
"Well believe it Michael because I love you." Maria then lifted her head off his chest and leaned up to kiss him.
"So when do you want to get married?" Michael asked.
Maria looked at her ring. "I want to be your wife as soon as possible. I want Liz to be the maid of honor, and Isabel and Tess can be my bridesmaids. It will just be a small wedding with our friends and my mom. Michael we'll be so happy."
"I know we will. Maria I want you and Dakota to move in with me as soon as possible."
"How about we get married next week. It shouldn't take that long to find someone to marry us. Is that soon enough?"
"No, but it will have to do."
Maria pulled out of Michael's embrace. He pulled her back to him.
"Where are you going?"
"I think it's time you officially met your son. I'm going to go get him." Maria then climbed out of bed and got dressed.
***Part 16***
Maria walked into her house she shared with Alex. She found him sleeping on the couch. When she walked into the room he awakened.
"Alex I hope you weren't waiting up for me."
"Maria I was worried. Well I guess this means Michael didn't break up with you."
"No, he asked me to marry him!" Maria shouted and showed him the ring. Alex didn't look happy. "Can you be happy for me please? This is what I've always wanted."
"I'm just worried Maria. I'm going to miss having you and Dakota around," Alex smiled and gave his friend a hug.
"You're a great liar Alex. Look I know helping me take care of Dakota has been really hard on you. I don't think I would have made it if you weren't there for me. Alex I love you so much. You are the greatest friend anyone could ever have. Isabel is a lucky woman. I hope she has realized that by now."
"I'm taking things slow. I don't want to get hurt again."
"I just came to get Dakota and take him to Michael's."
"So how does Michael feel about being a father?" Alex asked.
"He's thrilled. He told me he loved Dakota even before he knew he was his father."
"I've got to go now and get Dakota ready to see his daddy."
A few hours later Maria finally arrived at Michael's apartment with Dakota. She had given him a bath and taken one herself. She saw the door was partially opened and walked in. She saw Michael had cleaned up the food from the previous night. The food they had never gotten around to eating. She also noticed the pile of toys in the corner of the apartment. Michael had apparently done a little shopping.
"Michael."
Michael finally appeared coming out from the bedroom. He was dressed in a nice dress shirt and pants.
"Hi. I wanted to look nice for him. Do I look alright?"
"You look perfect." Maria looked down at Dakota. "Dakota I want you to meet your daddy." Dakota reached his arms out for Michael and he willing took him in his arms. Dakota snuggled up to his chest and smiled. Maria could see the tears start to fall from Michael's eyes. She walked up and wrapped her arms around the both of them.
"Thank you Maria for giving me a son. You've given me everything."
Maria pulled back from the hug and brushed Michael's tears away. "No, Michael you're the one who's given me everything."
"That's not true but thanks for saying it."
Michael picked up one of the toys in the pile on the floor and handed it to Dakota. He sat down on the couch and watched in wonder as his son played with the toy car.
Michael suddenly looked sad again. "Maria I'm afraid I won't be a good father. I mean I know nothing about children. I'm scared."
"Michael you'll do fine. After all you did an excellent job babysitting him."
"I have a confession to make. It didn't go as well as I led you to believe."
"Maria are you ever going to stop laughing?" Michael asked sarcastically. He still had Dakota on his lap. He was unwilling to let him go.
"Michael I just can't believer you wrapped our child in duct tape. And Michael diapers go in the trash can not garbage disposals." Maria could barely get the words out.
"You see I told you I would be horrible at this!" Michael put Dakota on the floor and Dakota walked over to the toys lying in the corner. He started playing with an Elmo doll.
Maria stopped laughing. "Michael you're not bad at this you've just never done it before. You love him. I couldn't ask for a better dad for my child then you Michael. Just being there for him is all he needs. And that goes for me to."
Maria pulled out Dakota's diaper bag. "He probably needs his diaper changed now. I'll show you how." Maria laid a towel on the floor and placed Dakota on it. First you remove his old diaper. Then she opened the new diaper up. "You see these white strips? That's what holds the diaper in place. Go ahead and try it Michael."
Maria handed Michael the diaper. After he put the diaper on he stood Dakota up. The diaper fell right off him. Michael let out a sigh. Maria laughed. "It's alright Michael you just have to make sure you pull the tabs tight enough so the diaper will stay on snuggly."
Michael tried again and then time it stayed on. "See Michael I told you, you could do it."
Maria spent the whole day with Michael and Dakota. Maria taught Michael what foods to feed Dakota, and how to bathe him. It was around 4:00 in the afternoon. "Michael do you think you would be alright with him alone for awhile. I want to go see Liz and go tell my mom. I'll be back later tonight.
"Sure. Try to hurry. I'll miss you. I love you."
Maria kissed Michael goodbye. "I love hearing you say that. I love you too."
______________________________________________
Maria knocked on Liz's bedroom door.
"Come in."
Maria walked in to see Liz cleaning her room. Maria started screaming and jumping up and down.
"What's wrong Maria?"
"Look." Maria showed Liz the ring on her finger. "Michael asked me to marry him and you just have to be my maid of honor. Please?"
"Oh course I will." Liz hugged Maria and they were both jumping up and down. After a minute they both calmed down.
"Liz I'm so happy. Michael is the father of my baby and soon he's going to be my husband. We want to get married right away. You have to help me find a dress by Friday. I want Tess and Isabel to be the bridesmaids. I hope you don't mind if I ask Tess. She helped Michael learn about where he came from and helped him learn to use his powers. Tess means a lot to Michael."
"I understand Maria. It's your day and you can choose whoever you want, but how are we ever going to be ready by Friday?"
"Are you up for looking at dresses tomorrow?" Maria asked.
"Sure. I can't wait."
"I've got to go see my mom but first I've been dying to ask you have you talked to Max."
"Yes."
"And did you tell him the truth about you and Kyle?"
"Yes and we're going out tonight."
Maria and Liz started screaming again and jumping around the room. Liz's dad opened the door.
"What's wrong?" Jeff Parker asked. Then he noticed the smiles on the girl's faces.
"Nothing's wrong. I'm sorry about he screaming it's just we're so happy," Maria said.
""She must have told you about Max." Jeff asked.
"Yes she did. I'm also getting married to Michael," Maria added.
Mr. Parker smiled and grabbed Maria in a hug. "Congratulations Maria. We can have the reception here at the Crashdown."
"Thanks, but the weddings Friday. You won't have enough time."
"It will be hard but I'm sure we can work something out. You're Liz's best friend. It will be my gift."
Maria hugged Jeff. "Thanks you're the best. We'll I'll see you later Liz. I better go and see my mom. I'll pick you up about 9:00 in the morning Liz."
"That sounds great. Good luck with your mom."
Maria finally arrived at her mom's house. She knocked on the door and her mom answered.
"Well hi sweetie. It's good to see you. Where's my grandchild?"
"He's at Michael's."
Amy looked at her daughter with disapproving eyes. "Don't give me that look mom. I need to talk to you. It's extremely important."
"Come on in."
Amy and Maria sat down in the kitchen. Her mom poured them both a glass of tea.
"Mom, I just found out some great news. Dakota is Michael's."
"But how? I thought you got pregnant when you were raped honey."
"I thought I did mom, but Dakota had a small accident, he's fine, but I learned he was Michael's."
"So you mean to tell me that Michael got you pregnant then left you for two years. If he had stayed around maybe you would have never gotten hurt. What a catch you have there Maria."
"Mom stop! It wasn't his fault. He didn't know I was pregnant. I didn't even know I was when he left."
"He still left you Maria. I can't help but remember how much that hurt you Maria."
"It did hurt. It hurt because I loved him so much. He didn't want to go away."
"So that's what he told you?"
"No mom. I know why he went away. He didn't want to. But mom he did come back for me."
"What was so important he had to leave you for?"
"You know Michael was raised by a foster father right?"
"Yeah."
"Well Michael went to find out where he came from." Maria said telling her the partial truth.
"And did he get the answers he was looking for?"
"Yes, I found out Maria was my home." Amy and Maria were both startled to see Michael had entered the room with Dakota asleep in his arms.
"Hi," Maria smiled at Michael.
"Uh, Maria can you take Dakota? I want to talk to your mother."
Maria gave Michael a questioning glance.
"It will be alright," Michael told Maria.
Dakota started to scream when Maria removed him from Michael's arms. She tried to calm him down but he reached his arms out for Michael. He continued screaming.
"He doesn't want me Michael. He wants his daddy." Maria handed Dakota back to him and then left the room.
As soon as Michael took Dakota back in his arms he quickly calmed down. Michael couldn't help but smile. He was full of pride to know his son wanted only him. Dakota laid his head on Michael's shoulder and wrapped his arms around his daddy's neck.
"Sit down Michael."
Michael sat down on the chair with Dakota still on his lap. Amy sat next to him.
"Amy I know your worried about Maria."
"I'm just afraid you're moving to fast. I mean you haven't been back that long. What if you leave again? Look how attached Dakota is to you already. Maria could make it without you if you left. As hard as it was the first time she got through it. But I've seen what it does to a child to have their dad leave. Maria went through that and I won't let Dakota go through that."
"Look I can't promise I'll always be here. I mean things happen. But what I can promise you is I'll never leave Maria or Dakota of my own free will. Maria has given me everything. She's given me more than I deserve. She's made me happy when I never thought I could be."
Amy could see the tears behind Michael's eyes. He hated to cry in front of people but when it came to how Maria made him feel he couldn't help himself.
"Amy I want your blessing. I know you may not trust me yet but Dakota and Maria are my life. I won't do anything to hurt them."
Amy looked at Dakota curled up in Michael's arms. Her heart started to melt.
"Maria, come back in here!" Amy yelled.
Maria came running in the room.
"Yes, mom?"
"Maria I'm very proud of you. You couldn't have picked a better husband."
Maria smiled and hugged her mom. She was so happy.
******Part17******
Maria arrived at Liz house in the morning.
"So where are we headed to Maria?" Liz asked.
"I wanted to check out this boutique I heard about across town. They sell second hand wedding dresses. I thought it would be a great idea seeing as how I don't have very much money and the dresses are supposed to look brand new."
They finally arrived at the shop. Maria couldn't believe all the dresses she saw. The large room was filled with wedding dresses in every conceivable style. You couldn't tell by looking at them that they were used.
"Liz there's so many. I don't know how to choose."
"How about this one?" Liz picked a dress off the rack.
"It's pretty but I don't like all the ruffles. I really want something simple."
Maria continued looking through every dress in the store. They had been there for three hours.
"Maria we can just go somewhere else if you don't see what you want."
"If I'm going to get married this week I need something today in order for it to get fitted. And besides this is the only place I can afford."
"We'll think of something Maria."
Then all of a sudden Liz noticed Maria's eyes light up.
"Oh my god Liz. This is perfect." Maria tried it on. When she came out of the dressing room Liz sighed.
"Maria you look beautiful!" It was a simple white gown. It had spaghetti straps and the bottom came just a little above her knees. It had small beads running around the middle of the dress. The top had extra padding in it and pushed her breast up to make her look fuller.
"Michael will love you in that."
"Do you really think so?"
"I really do Maria. You just have to get it."
Maria bought the dress and then she helped Liz pick out her bridesmaid dress. Maria's favorite color was green so they choose a light emerald color dress for Liz.
_____________
Michael called Max and asked him to come over that morning.
"So what was so urgent that you needed me to come over right away? And why are you babysitting Dakota again?"
"Maria's with Liz. Isn't Dakota the most beautiful child you've ever seen?"
Max looked at Michael with awe. He couldn't believe Michael was talking like this. He had changed so much. He never thought Michael would get mushy over a child even if it was Maria's. Max honestly didn't know how Michael could love a child that was another man's. But he could tell that first day he saw them together that Michael was hooked on this child.
"He's mine Max."
"What?"
"It turns out I'm his father."
"But how? I thought you and Maria used something."
"We did but it didn't work."
"So how do you feel about this?"
"How could I not be happy? I finally have a family."
Dakota walked up to Michael and climbed on his lap. He was plating with a Barbie doll. Michael had tried to throw it out saying no son of his was going to play with Barbie's but Maria insisted they keep it. She said it was just a stereotype that boys shouldn't play with Barbie's and that it would teach Dakota how to be sensitive to a women's needs. Michael tried to argue but it was no use. What Maria wants she gets. He's no match for her.
"We're also getting married on Friday."
"Aren't you moving a little fast Michael? I mean you just found out Dakota was your son."
"No I'm not. I've spent too much time pushing Maria away in the first place when she has been the best thing in my life. I don't want to waste anymore time living without her. Max I called you over to ask you to be my best man. You're like a brother to me and I want you to be there."
Max smiled. "I'd be honored to."
"So how are you and Liz doing?"
"Actually good. It turns out Liz and Kyle never slept together. She just made it up so I would break up with her for good. It's a long story but she says a future version of me came to her and told her we had to be apart and that was the only way."
"That sounds a little hard to believe," Michael said.
"After everything that's happened to us I can believe it."
"Well Maxwell I'm glad things worked out for you. Now you have to help me find a tux. I want to do this wedding thing right."
******Part 18******
The week quickly passed by. Tess and Isabel agreed to be the bridesmaids and Alex and Kyle were groomsmen. The dresses, food, and rings had all been picked out. It was the night before the wedding and Liz was throwing Maria a wedding shower at Amy's. At the same time Max was throwing a bachelor party for Michael at Valenti's
Maria was currently opening up her wedding gifts. Liz had bought Maria a coffee table book that had pictures of places around the world. Amy gave Maria an emerald necklace that had belonged to her great grandmother. Isabel's gift to Maria was a picture frame with a picture of Michael as a child. Diana Evans was also there. She had bought Maria pots and pans not knowing Maria had no idea how to cook. Tess's gift was last. It was a small white box with a pink bow. Maria opened it up and almost died of embarrassment. It was a black bra and panty set. The material was sheer and see though.
"Somebody cover Dakota's eyes!" Maria shouted. "There is no way I'm ever going to wear this!" Maria blushed. All eyes turned to Tess.
"It wasn't my idea! I didn't know what to buy you so I took Michael to the store with me and he picked it out."
"Michael is so dead! After the wedding of course." They all laughed at Maria's comment.
"So are you ready for tomorrow Maria?" Diana asked.
"I'm nervous, but I can't wait to marry Michael."
"So what do you think the guys are up to?"
"Knowing Kyle there's probably a stripper," Tess added.
"I don't think so Tess. Max is in charge of the party and I don't think he would do something like that," Liz assured Maria.
"Yeah rest assured Maria my brother wouldn't do that kind of thing," Isabel added.
"Why don't we go take a peek at what the men are doing?" Liz asked.
"Sounds like a good idea. I want to see Michael before the wedding. Mom would you mind staying with Dakota?"
"Sure sweetheart. But don't stay out to long. You're getting married tomorrow."
"Give me a minute girls. I've got to freshen up. I'll meet you in the car," Maria told the group.
A few minutes later Maria came out of the bathroom and hopped in the car.
(At the Valenti house)
Michael, Max, Kyle, Jim, Alex, and Jeff Parker were all sitting around the kitchen table playing poker. They were eating pretzels and peanuts and smoking cigars. The humans were drinking beer while the aliens were drinking soda. Max and Michael had learned aliens and alcohol don't mix.
"So Michael are you ready for tomorrow? I don't think I could settle for one woman but you've got a major babe," Kyle said in between puffs of his cigar.
"Hey, that's my future bride you're talking about. I'm nervous but I'm doing the right thing marrying Maria."
"Just remember Michael you have to treat Maria right or I may have to punch you again," Alex added recalling the time Maria caught Michael and Courtney together.
"Whitman you actually hit Michael?" Jeff asked.
"Yes he did. He actually packs a good punch," Michael said.
"And don't you forget it," Alex smiled.
"I think it's time to open the presents," Max interrupted.
"Sounds like a good idea. I don't think Maria would appreciate it if I kept losing all of our money before the wedding," Michael said referring to the poker game. Michael had been actually trying his luck at the game instead of using his powers and he was losing badly.
Michael started to open up the gifts. Max and Jeff bought Michael a box of cigars. Michael started to open Alex's gift. When he opened the box they all looked at Alex strangely.
"Boxer shorts, Whitman?" Jim said.
"Well everybody gives the bride lingerie so I thought I'd buy the groom something."
Next was Kyle and Jims gift. It was a box of condoms.
"Actually they didn't seem to do the trick last time. After all we have Dakota," Michael said.
"Maybe you should wear two," Alex said.
"Anywhere where's the stripper Max?" Jim asked.
"I didn't get one. I figure Maria would appreciate it."
"I figured you'd chicken out on us Max. So I took it upon myself to hire one," Kyle smirked.
"Maria will kill me!" Michael said.
About that time there was a knock at the door. Jim answered it and a woman walked in. She had her own radio and she turned it on. All of a sudden she took her coat off revealing a skimpy dress. She started dancing. "So who's the groom to be?" she asked. All hands pointed to Michael.
The girls finally arrived at the Valenti house. They walked up to the door and noticed it was partially opened. They walked in and couldn't believe what they saw. The stripper started to take her dress off.
"Michael Geurin!!!!" Maria started screaming. Maria picked Michael off his chair by his shirt. "I want to talk to you right now. Alone!"
Michael led Maria into the den.
Meanwhile back in the living room Liz handed the stripper her coat and threw her out of the house.
"Max how could you?" Diana asked.
"It wasn't me. Kyle did it!"
Tess walked over and smacked Kyle in the head.
(Back in the den with Michael and Maria)
"Sit down Michael." Maria pointed to a chair in the den and Michael sat down. "How could you!"
"Maria it wasn't my idea."
"You could have walked away and not looked. Michael you're such a guy. Women are not sex objects how could you do this? The night before our wedding. You're only supposed to look at me that way!"
Michael saw Maria turn and head for the door. Maria put her hand on the doorknob.
"Maria don't go. I'm sorry. I don't want anyone but you!" Then Michael heard a click. Maria had locked the door.
She started to take her dress off. Michael couldn't believe it she was wearing the bra and panty set he picked out. His eyes about popped out of his head.
"Oh my god Maria. Your beautiful," Michael smirked.
Maria climbed on his lap and started kissing French kissing Michael.
"I want you, Maria."
Maria gave him one more long kiss then got up from his lap and put the dress back on.
"Let this be a lesson to you, Michael. I'm the only woman you should look at. See you tomorrow. I love you."
Maria unlocked the door and walked out leaving a very stunned Michael.
She walked out into the living room.
"Lets go girls," Maria said and they all left the men."
TBC...
Title: The Return
Disclaimer: I don't own Roswell or any of the characters.
Rating: PG-13
Category: Michael and Maria
NOTE: AU, Michael and the other alien's left the planet. Alex is still alive. Tess was never pregnant. Michael and Maria still slept together before he left earth. Everything else is pretty much the same.
Summary: Michael, Tess, Max, and Isabel come back to earth after being away for two years. Michael finds out Maria was raped after he left and she has a son.
********Part 14*******
(A week later)
Maria was sitting in her US History class listing to the professor lecture when she felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned around to see one of the school's secretary's.
"Sorry to bother you but someone named Alex is on the phone and he says it's urgent.
Maria followed the secretary to the phone and she started panicking. Alex had been babysitting Dakota. The secretary handed Maria the phone.
"Is it Dakota?"
"I'm so sorry, Maria. I took him to the playground and I was swinging him in the swing shaped like an airplane when he fell out and hit his head on the pavement. He passed out for a few minutes. You need to get to the emergency room now!"
Maria heart was shattering. She raced back to the classroom to grab her purse and keys earning her curious faces from the rest of the class. She fumbled for her keys and drove straight to the emergency room. She finally arrived and raced into the entrance.
"I was told my child was here. His name is Dakota DeLuca. Where is he?"
"Maria!"
"Alex!"
"The doctor's in with Dakota now." Alex guided Maria into the small room.
Maria raced into the room seeing Dakota lying on the table. Se ran and scooped him in her arms. He had apparently awakened by now.
The doctor started talking. "Are you his mom?"
"Yes. How is he?"
"Dakota just has a slight concussion he should be fine. We actually took some blood test just to make sure everything was alright but it seems the lab made an error so we'll need to draw more blood."
"What do you mean the lab made an error?"
"The lab results show that the blood wasn't from a human. They probably just got the blood mixed up with one of the lab animals. The nurse here will draw more blood and we'll call you back with the results. You can take him home as soon as we're done."
The doctor then left the room. Maria got suspicious. The nurse took another sample from Dakota.
"I just ran out of band-aids. I'll be right back with one can you just hold the cotton on the wound until I come back."
"Sure," Maria said to the nurse.
As soon as the nurse left Maria grabbed the blood sample. "Alex check the door and see if anyone's looking we need to sneak out."
"Why?"
"Just do it Alex." Alex checked the door and didn't see the nurse or doctor anywhere around.
"The coast is clear."
They managed to make it outside the hospital.
"O.K. Maria what was that all about?"
"I'm not sure Alex but I'm going to drive my car and see Liz. I'll explain everything later."
Maria found Liz at the Crashdown. They went upstairs to her room and Liz confirmed the blood samples we're human cells.
"Oh my God Maria! This means Dakota isn't Austin's," Liz concluded.
"I've got to find Michael. Thanks Liz." Maria left smiling with a happy Dakota in hand.
Maria finally reached Michael's apartment and knocked on the door. Michael finally opened the door.
"Maria what are you doing here?" Michael said in an irritated voice.
"Michael there's something important I need to tell you. Can I come in?"
"Maria it's not a good time." Michael had the door closed behind him so Maria couldn't see inside.
Maria's couldn't wait to tell Michael he was Dakota's daddy. Her heart broke to have him acting this way. What was he hiding? Maybe he had another girl in his apartment she thought.
"I'm sorry Maria. It's just could you maybe come back in two hours or so and find a baby-sitter for Dakota."
Maria's thoughts were turning in her head. What if he doesn't want to be a father? Maria had no choice but to go home and wait.
Maria arrived at home and was pacing back and forth. What if Michael wanted to break things off with her? She had started to think Michael might want a relationship with her. After all they had been spending so much time together. *But what if I just misinterpreted his feelings for me. Maybe he just felt sorry for me. What if he can't deal with the fact that I was raped?*
"Maria why are you pacing?" Alex asked.
"Michael wants to see me in another hour and he asked me not to bring Dakota. I think he's going to break things off. Things might get ugly."
"I'll watch Dakota and I promise I won't take him to the park."
"Thanks Alex. It wasn't your fault what happened. In a way it was good because it proved Michael was Dakota's daddy. I only hope Michael still wants him."
"Maria I'm sure everything will be fine."
************Part 15***********
Two hours had passed and Maria finally arrived at Michael's house. She knocked on the door. Suddenly all of her fears about Michael breaking up with her started to overtake her. She couldn't take it. She turned and started to walk away hoping Michael didn't hear her knock. Her hopes where dashed as she heard the door open and someone step out. She realized she had to hear whatever Michael had to say.
"Maria," she heard him call her name.
"Can I come in now?" Maria turned around and looked at Michael stunned to see him in a black suit.
"I'm sorry about before but I just needed to get things ready."
"Michael what's going on?"
"Come in."
Michael guided Maria inside his apartment and Maria was shocked to see the whole living area surrounded with yellow roses, which were her favorite. She also noticed a table set up with Italian food and Scooby Doo plates just like the night before he had left. Suddenly fear struck Maria again but this time she was afraid he was leaving her again.
"Sit down, Maria. Please."
Maria was now utterly confused. "Michael what is it? Are you leaving again?"
Maria's eyes filled with tears but she was determined not to let them fall. She suddenly sat down on the couch and he sat down next to her.
"Maria I told you that night I never wanted to leave you and I meant it. Coming back only showed me how wrong it was to leave you. Maria I'm sorry for what happened to you. I should have been there."
"Michael it's not your fault," Maria interrupted.
"Let me finish. I should have been there and if you let me I'll always be there. To protect you and your son. I know I'm not perfect Maria. But I think I could be a good father for Dakota. I love you and I love him. He's part of you. Maria you're the only one I've ever let see me. You know every bad side to me, everything I've done wrong and you still love me. I want to show you I feel the same way."
"What are you saying?"
"I'm saying I want you to marry me."
Michael noticed Maria's surprised reaction.
"What's wrong Maria?"
"It's just I was afraid that you wanted to break things off we me. That you didn't love me anymore."
"Why did you think that?" a confused Michael asked.
"Well Michael you've been so sweet and everything, but you've treated me more like a friend. You haven't touched me in like forever."
"Maria I've wanted to more than anything. It's just I wasn't sure if you wanted me to. I was afraid once I started I couldn't stop. And I didn't want to pressure you. But I can't wait any longer I want to be with you, in every way."
Michael then pulled out a ring. It was a simple gold band with a tiny diamond in the middle.
"Maria I know it's not much but..."
"Michael it's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen." Maria launched herself at him and started kissing him. She then stopped to look in his eyes.
"I would be very proud to be Maria Deluca-Guerin." Michael looked at her strangely.
"What it's 2001? I'm keeping my last name and adding yours."
Michael smiled. "I don't care what your name is as long as you marry me."
"We'll are you going to put the ring on me or not?"
"Are you going to be this bossy once we're married."
"Of course. Why should marriage change anything," Maria teased.
Michael then held Maria's face in his hands and kissed her full on the mouth. Maria was so happy at that moment but then she remembered why she had come to Michael's apartment in the first place. Maria reluctantly broke the kiss.
"Michael, your Dakota's dad."
"I know, and we'll make it official when were married."
"No I mean you ARE his father."
"What are you talking about?"
"Dakota got in an accident and the doctor said his blood test got mixed up because his cells weren't human and I had Liz double check and it's true Michael he's yours if you want him."
Michael couldn't believe what she had said. Could it be possible? That him and his Maria had a child.
"Of course I want him."
Michael's face lit up in a smile Maria had never seen before. He looked so happy. "Maria I'm a daddy."
"I know Michael."
Michael smile quickly faded. "I missed 14 months of his life Maria. It's my fault. But I promise I'll never leave him or you ever again.
"I know Michael. I trust you."
Maria's lips were swollen from their previous kisses but Maria longed to have his mouth on hers again. She stopped herself from launching at him again.
"Maria?"
"Michael, just like our first night together I don't want to eat the salad."
"I thought you liked salad." Michael said not catching the hidden meaning behind her words."
"I love salad but that's not what I meant."
"Then what?" Michael asked.
"Michael it's been too long. I want to be with you again. I want to wake up in your arms and I never want to leave. I want you, now."
"Maria are you sure your ready?"
"Michael I am so grateful that you were my first. And no matter what happened to me it can't change how much I need you now. Michael you're the only one who can take the pain away and make me happy again. I want you to touch me." Maria then took his hands in hers and guided it to the zipper in back of her dress. "Please, Michael."
Michael couldn't believe how lucky he was. She was begging him to make love to her. All of his dreams had come true. He was a father and soon he would be Maria's husband.
Maria awoke in Michael's arms. She looked up to see him smiling at her.
"How long have you been awake?"
"Awhile. I just wanted to look at you. I can't believe you agreed to marry me."
"Well believe it Michael because I love you." Maria then lifted her head off his chest and leaned up to kiss him.
"So when do you want to get married?" Michael asked.
Maria looked at her ring. "I want to be your wife as soon as possible. I want Liz to be the maid of honor, and Isabel and Tess can be my bridesmaids. It will just be a small wedding with our friends and my mom. Michael we'll be so happy."
"I know we will. Maria I want you and Dakota to move in with me as soon as possible."
"How about we get married next week. It shouldn't take that long to find someone to marry us. Is that soon enough?"
"No, but it will have to do."
Maria pulled out of Michael's embrace. He pulled her back to him.
"Where are you going?"
"I think it's time you officially met your son. I'm going to go get him." Maria then climbed out of bed and got dressed.
***Part 16***
Maria walked into her house she shared with Alex. She found him sleeping on the couch. When she walked into the room he awakened.
"Alex I hope you weren't waiting up for me."
"Maria I was worried. Well I guess this means Michael didn't break up with you."
"No, he asked me to marry him!" Maria shouted and showed him the ring. Alex didn't look happy. "Can you be happy for me please? This is what I've always wanted."
"I'm just worried Maria. I'm going to miss having you and Dakota around," Alex smiled and gave his friend a hug.
"You're a great liar Alex. Look I know helping me take care of Dakota has been really hard on you. I don't think I would have made it if you weren't there for me. Alex I love you so much. You are the greatest friend anyone could ever have. Isabel is a lucky woman. I hope she has realized that by now."
"I'm taking things slow. I don't want to get hurt again."
"I just came to get Dakota and take him to Michael's."
"So how does Michael feel about being a father?" Alex asked.
"He's thrilled. He told me he loved Dakota even before he knew he was his father."
"I've got to go now and get Dakota ready to see his daddy."
A few hours later Maria finally arrived at Michael's apartment with Dakota. She had given him a bath and taken one herself. She saw the door was partially opened and walked in. She saw Michael had cleaned up the food from the previous night. The food they had never gotten around to eating. She also noticed the pile of toys in the corner of the apartment. Michael had apparently done a little shopping.
"Michael."
Michael finally appeared coming out from the bedroom. He was dressed in a nice dress shirt and pants.
"Hi. I wanted to look nice for him. Do I look alright?"
"You look perfect." Maria looked down at Dakota. "Dakota I want you to meet your daddy." Dakota reached his arms out for Michael and he willing took him in his arms. Dakota snuggled up to his chest and smiled. Maria could see the tears start to fall from Michael's eyes. She walked up and wrapped her arms around the both of them.
"Thank you Maria for giving me a son. You've given me everything."
Maria pulled back from the hug and brushed Michael's tears away. "No, Michael you're the one who's given me everything."
"That's not true but thanks for saying it."
Michael picked up one of the toys in the pile on the floor and handed it to Dakota. He sat down on the couch and watched in wonder as his son played with the toy car.
Michael suddenly looked sad again. "Maria I'm afraid I won't be a good father. I mean I know nothing about children. I'm scared."
"Michael you'll do fine. After all you did an excellent job babysitting him."
"I have a confession to make. It didn't go as well as I led you to believe."
"Maria are you ever going to stop laughing?" Michael asked sarcastically. He still had Dakota on his lap. He was unwilling to let him go.
"Michael I just can't believer you wrapped our child in duct tape. And Michael diapers go in the trash can not garbage disposals." Maria could barely get the words out.
"You see I told you I would be horrible at this!" Michael put Dakota on the floor and Dakota walked over to the toys lying in the corner. He started playing with an Elmo doll.
Maria stopped laughing. "Michael you're not bad at this you've just never done it before. You love him. I couldn't ask for a better dad for my child then you Michael. Just being there for him is all he needs. And that goes for me to."
Maria pulled out Dakota's diaper bag. "He probably needs his diaper changed now. I'll show you how." Maria laid a towel on the floor and placed Dakota on it. First you remove his old diaper. Then she opened the new diaper up. "You see these white strips? That's what holds the diaper in place. Go ahead and try it Michael."
Maria handed Michael the diaper. After he put the diaper on he stood Dakota up. The diaper fell right off him. Michael let out a sigh. Maria laughed. "It's alright Michael you just have to make sure you pull the tabs tight enough so the diaper will stay on snuggly."
Michael tried again and then time it stayed on. "See Michael I told you, you could do it."
Maria spent the whole day with Michael and Dakota. Maria taught Michael what foods to feed Dakota, and how to bathe him. It was around 4:00 in the afternoon. "Michael do you think you would be alright with him alone for awhile. I want to go see Liz and go tell my mom. I'll be back later tonight.
"Sure. Try to hurry. I'll miss you. I love you."
Maria kissed Michael goodbye. "I love hearing you say that. I love you too."
______________________________________________
Maria knocked on Liz's bedroom door.
"Come in."
Maria walked in to see Liz cleaning her room. Maria started screaming and jumping up and down.
"What's wrong Maria?"
"Look." Maria showed Liz the ring on her finger. "Michael asked me to marry him and you just have to be my maid of honor. Please?"
"Oh course I will." Liz hugged Maria and they were both jumping up and down. After a minute they both calmed down.
"Liz I'm so happy. Michael is the father of my baby and soon he's going to be my husband. We want to get married right away. You have to help me find a dress by Friday. I want Tess and Isabel to be the bridesmaids. I hope you don't mind if I ask Tess. She helped Michael learn about where he came from and helped him learn to use his powers. Tess means a lot to Michael."
"I understand Maria. It's your day and you can choose whoever you want, but how are we ever going to be ready by Friday?"
"Are you up for looking at dresses tomorrow?" Maria asked.
"Sure. I can't wait."
"I've got to go see my mom but first I've been dying to ask you have you talked to Max."
"Yes."
"And did you tell him the truth about you and Kyle?"
"Yes and we're going out tonight."
Maria and Liz started screaming again and jumping around the room. Liz's dad opened the door.
"What's wrong?" Jeff Parker asked. Then he noticed the smiles on the girl's faces.
"Nothing's wrong. I'm sorry about he screaming it's just we're so happy," Maria said.
""She must have told you about Max." Jeff asked.
"Yes she did. I'm also getting married to Michael," Maria added.
Mr. Parker smiled and grabbed Maria in a hug. "Congratulations Maria. We can have the reception here at the Crashdown."
"Thanks, but the weddings Friday. You won't have enough time."
"It will be hard but I'm sure we can work something out. You're Liz's best friend. It will be my gift."
Maria hugged Jeff. "Thanks you're the best. We'll I'll see you later Liz. I better go and see my mom. I'll pick you up about 9:00 in the morning Liz."
"That sounds great. Good luck with your mom."
Maria finally arrived at her mom's house. She knocked on the door and her mom answered.
"Well hi sweetie. It's good to see you. Where's my grandchild?"
"He's at Michael's."
Amy looked at her daughter with disapproving eyes. "Don't give me that look mom. I need to talk to you. It's extremely important."
"Come on in."
Amy and Maria sat down in the kitchen. Her mom poured them both a glass of tea.
"Mom, I just found out some great news. Dakota is Michael's."
"But how? I thought you got pregnant when you were raped honey."
"I thought I did mom, but Dakota had a small accident, he's fine, but I learned he was Michael's."
"So you mean to tell me that Michael got you pregnant then left you for two years. If he had stayed around maybe you would have never gotten hurt. What a catch you have there Maria."
"Mom stop! It wasn't his fault. He didn't know I was pregnant. I didn't even know I was when he left."
"He still left you Maria. I can't help but remember how much that hurt you Maria."
"It did hurt. It hurt because I loved him so much. He didn't want to go away."
"So that's what he told you?"
"No mom. I know why he went away. He didn't want to. But mom he did come back for me."
"What was so important he had to leave you for?"
"You know Michael was raised by a foster father right?"
"Yeah."
"Well Michael went to find out where he came from." Maria said telling her the partial truth.
"And did he get the answers he was looking for?"
"Yes, I found out Maria was my home." Amy and Maria were both startled to see Michael had entered the room with Dakota asleep in his arms.
"Hi," Maria smiled at Michael.
"Uh, Maria can you take Dakota? I want to talk to your mother."
Maria gave Michael a questioning glance.
"It will be alright," Michael told Maria.
Dakota started to scream when Maria removed him from Michael's arms. She tried to calm him down but he reached his arms out for Michael. He continued screaming.
"He doesn't want me Michael. He wants his daddy." Maria handed Dakota back to him and then left the room.
As soon as Michael took Dakota back in his arms he quickly calmed down. Michael couldn't help but smile. He was full of pride to know his son wanted only him. Dakota laid his head on Michael's shoulder and wrapped his arms around his daddy's neck.
"Sit down Michael."
Michael sat down on the chair with Dakota still on his lap. Amy sat next to him.
"Amy I know your worried about Maria."
"I'm just afraid you're moving to fast. I mean you haven't been back that long. What if you leave again? Look how attached Dakota is to you already. Maria could make it without you if you left. As hard as it was the first time she got through it. But I've seen what it does to a child to have their dad leave. Maria went through that and I won't let Dakota go through that."
"Look I can't promise I'll always be here. I mean things happen. But what I can promise you is I'll never leave Maria or Dakota of my own free will. Maria has given me everything. She's given me more than I deserve. She's made me happy when I never thought I could be."
Amy could see the tears behind Michael's eyes. He hated to cry in front of people but when it came to how Maria made him feel he couldn't help himself.
"Amy I want your blessing. I know you may not trust me yet but Dakota and Maria are my life. I won't do anything to hurt them."
Amy looked at Dakota curled up in Michael's arms. Her heart started to melt.
"Maria, come back in here!" Amy yelled.
Maria came running in the room.
"Yes, mom?"
"Maria I'm very proud of you. You couldn't have picked a better husband."
Maria smiled and hugged her mom. She was so happy.
******Part17******
Maria arrived at Liz house in the morning.
"So where are we headed to Maria?" Liz asked.
"I wanted to check out this boutique I heard about across town. They sell second hand wedding dresses. I thought it would be a great idea seeing as how I don't have very much money and the dresses are supposed to look brand new."
They finally arrived at the shop. Maria couldn't believe all the dresses she saw. The large room was filled with wedding dresses in every conceivable style. You couldn't tell by looking at them that they were used.
"Liz there's so many. I don't know how to choose."
"How about this one?" Liz picked a dress off the rack.
"It's pretty but I don't like all the ruffles. I really want something simple."
Maria continued looking through every dress in the store. They had been there for three hours.
"Maria we can just go somewhere else if you don't see what you want."
"If I'm going to get married this week I need something today in order for it to get fitted. And besides this is the only place I can afford."
"We'll think of something Maria."
Then all of a sudden Liz noticed Maria's eyes light up.
"Oh my god Liz. This is perfect." Maria tried it on. When she came out of the dressing room Liz sighed.
"Maria you look beautiful!" It was a simple white gown. It had spaghetti straps and the bottom came just a little above her knees. It had small beads running around the middle of the dress. The top had extra padding in it and pushed her breast up to make her look fuller.
"Michael will love you in that."
"Do you really think so?"
"I really do Maria. You just have to get it."
Maria bought the dress and then she helped Liz pick out her bridesmaid dress. Maria's favorite color was green so they choose a light emerald color dress for Liz.
_____________
Michael called Max and asked him to come over that morning.
"So what was so urgent that you needed me to come over right away? And why are you babysitting Dakota again?"
"Maria's with Liz. Isn't Dakota the most beautiful child you've ever seen?"
Max looked at Michael with awe. He couldn't believe Michael was talking like this. He had changed so much. He never thought Michael would get mushy over a child even if it was Maria's. Max honestly didn't know how Michael could love a child that was another man's. But he could tell that first day he saw them together that Michael was hooked on this child.
"He's mine Max."
"What?"
"It turns out I'm his father."
"But how? I thought you and Maria used something."
"We did but it didn't work."
"So how do you feel about this?"
"How could I not be happy? I finally have a family."
Dakota walked up to Michael and climbed on his lap. He was plating with a Barbie doll. Michael had tried to throw it out saying no son of his was going to play with Barbie's but Maria insisted they keep it. She said it was just a stereotype that boys shouldn't play with Barbie's and that it would teach Dakota how to be sensitive to a women's needs. Michael tried to argue but it was no use. What Maria wants she gets. He's no match for her.
"We're also getting married on Friday."
"Aren't you moving a little fast Michael? I mean you just found out Dakota was your son."
"No I'm not. I've spent too much time pushing Maria away in the first place when she has been the best thing in my life. I don't want to waste anymore time living without her. Max I called you over to ask you to be my best man. You're like a brother to me and I want you to be there."
Max smiled. "I'd be honored to."
"So how are you and Liz doing?"
"Actually good. It turns out Liz and Kyle never slept together. She just made it up so I would break up with her for good. It's a long story but she says a future version of me came to her and told her we had to be apart and that was the only way."
"That sounds a little hard to believe," Michael said.
"After everything that's happened to us I can believe it."
"Well Maxwell I'm glad things worked out for you. Now you have to help me find a tux. I want to do this wedding thing right."
******Part 18******
The week quickly passed by. Tess and Isabel agreed to be the bridesmaids and Alex and Kyle were groomsmen. The dresses, food, and rings had all been picked out. It was the night before the wedding and Liz was throwing Maria a wedding shower at Amy's. At the same time Max was throwing a bachelor party for Michael at Valenti's
Maria was currently opening up her wedding gifts. Liz had bought Maria a coffee table book that had pictures of places around the world. Amy gave Maria an emerald necklace that had belonged to her great grandmother. Isabel's gift to Maria was a picture frame with a picture of Michael as a child. Diana Evans was also there. She had bought Maria pots and pans not knowing Maria had no idea how to cook. Tess's gift was last. It was a small white box with a pink bow. Maria opened it up and almost died of embarrassment. It was a black bra and panty set. The material was sheer and see though.
"Somebody cover Dakota's eyes!" Maria shouted. "There is no way I'm ever going to wear this!" Maria blushed. All eyes turned to Tess.
"It wasn't my idea! I didn't know what to buy you so I took Michael to the store with me and he picked it out."
"Michael is so dead! After the wedding of course." They all laughed at Maria's comment.
"So are you ready for tomorrow Maria?" Diana asked.
"I'm nervous, but I can't wait to marry Michael."
"So what do you think the guys are up to?"
"Knowing Kyle there's probably a stripper," Tess added.
"I don't think so Tess. Max is in charge of the party and I don't think he would do something like that," Liz assured Maria.
"Yeah rest assured Maria my brother wouldn't do that kind of thing," Isabel added.
"Why don't we go take a peek at what the men are doing?" Liz asked.
"Sounds like a good idea. I want to see Michael before the wedding. Mom would you mind staying with Dakota?"
"Sure sweetheart. But don't stay out to long. You're getting married tomorrow."
"Give me a minute girls. I've got to freshen up. I'll meet you in the car," Maria told the group.
A few minutes later Maria came out of the bathroom and hopped in the car.
(At the Valenti house)
Michael, Max, Kyle, Jim, Alex, and Jeff Parker were all sitting around the kitchen table playing poker. They were eating pretzels and peanuts and smoking cigars. The humans were drinking beer while the aliens were drinking soda. Max and Michael had learned aliens and alcohol don't mix.
"So Michael are you ready for tomorrow? I don't think I could settle for one woman but you've got a major babe," Kyle said in between puffs of his cigar.
"Hey, that's my future bride you're talking about. I'm nervous but I'm doing the right thing marrying Maria."
"Just remember Michael you have to treat Maria right or I may have to punch you again," Alex added recalling the time Maria caught Michael and Courtney together.
"Whitman you actually hit Michael?" Jeff asked.
"Yes he did. He actually packs a good punch," Michael said.
"And don't you forget it," Alex smiled.
"I think it's time to open the presents," Max interrupted.
"Sounds like a good idea. I don't think Maria would appreciate it if I kept losing all of our money before the wedding," Michael said referring to the poker game. Michael had been actually trying his luck at the game instead of using his powers and he was losing badly.
Michael started to open up the gifts. Max and Jeff bought Michael a box of cigars. Michael started to open Alex's gift. When he opened the box they all looked at Alex strangely.
"Boxer shorts, Whitman?" Jim said.
"Well everybody gives the bride lingerie so I thought I'd buy the groom something."
Next was Kyle and Jims gift. It was a box of condoms.
"Actually they didn't seem to do the trick last time. After all we have Dakota," Michael said.
"Maybe you should wear two," Alex said.
"Anywhere where's the stripper Max?" Jim asked.
"I didn't get one. I figure Maria would appreciate it."
"I figured you'd chicken out on us Max. So I took it upon myself to hire one," Kyle smirked.
"Maria will kill me!" Michael said.
About that time there was a knock at the door. Jim answered it and a woman walked in. She had her own radio and she turned it on. All of a sudden she took her coat off revealing a skimpy dress. She started dancing. "So who's the groom to be?" she asked. All hands pointed to Michael.
The girls finally arrived at the Valenti house. They walked up to the door and noticed it was partially opened. They walked in and couldn't believe what they saw. The stripper started to take her dress off.
"Michael Geurin!!!!" Maria started screaming. Maria picked Michael off his chair by his shirt. "I want to talk to you right now. Alone!"
Michael led Maria into the den.
Meanwhile back in the living room Liz handed the stripper her coat and threw her out of the house.
"Max how could you?" Diana asked.
"It wasn't me. Kyle did it!"
Tess walked over and smacked Kyle in the head.
(Back in the den with Michael and Maria)
"Sit down Michael." Maria pointed to a chair in the den and Michael sat down. "How could you!"
"Maria it wasn't my idea."
"You could have walked away and not looked. Michael you're such a guy. Women are not sex objects how could you do this? The night before our wedding. You're only supposed to look at me that way!"
Michael saw Maria turn and head for the door. Maria put her hand on the doorknob.
"Maria don't go. I'm sorry. I don't want anyone but you!" Then Michael heard a click. Maria had locked the door.
She started to take her dress off. Michael couldn't believe it she was wearing the bra and panty set he picked out. His eyes about popped out of his head.
"Oh my god Maria. Your beautiful," Michael smirked.
Maria climbed on his lap and started kissing French kissing Michael.
"I want you, Maria."
Maria gave him one more long kiss then got up from his lap and put the dress back on.
"Let this be a lesson to you, Michael. I'm the only woman you should look at. See you tomorrow. I love you."
Maria unlocked the door and walked out leaving a very stunned Michael.
She walked out into the living room.
"Lets go girls," Maria said and they all left the men."
TBC...