And I'm back! Been working on this on and off through out the passed weeks. Tweaking here and there until I got it to what I was wanting/hoping to portray.
Sorry for the late review replies. My internet connection took a turn for the worst. If I missed you, sorry. It was and always is unintentionally. Thank-you for those that did leave a review. Each and everyone is cherished. (The reason why, in fact I forget who I've replied to. ) Anyway, hugs and cookies to all you wonderful people!
SeraP;If given the choice between Ben and Alec, I'd choose Ben hands down. I've also had a thing for his tortured character. Im hoping what I have in mind isn't too obvious. Though going on what you say, I believe I'm safe in saying that it isn't what you think. But let's see, huh?
Unbeta'd. Errors, mistakes? PM me and I'll correct it.
-4-
Preferences
--x&x--
It wasn't until somewhere around four in the morning that the teens decided to call their gambling spree quits. As expected, Ben and Max had made themselves a tidy sum that would be more than enough to get Ben his motorbike and any updates that had been missed. It had also helped with Max's networking and she had made a few new contacts through the game. Over all the evening was a success.
However, that also meant that Max didn't get very much sleep when she was awoken at half six in the morning. Lydecker having stumbled upon her and Ben sleeping in the family room. Sprawled out all over the couch, beneath the duvet that Ben had picked up from elsewhere in the house. The television set at a low drone and playing early morning cartoons.
"I won't be home until late this evening," Lydecker informed his semi conscious daughter. Stern gaze adhered in mild suspicion on her dozing companion. Not that Ben was aware. "So don't bother with dinner. I'll grab something to eat at work."
Max let out a soft noise in confirmation that she'd heard.
"I should probably get home," Ben mumbled tiredly, once Lydecker had left them. A yawn interrupting his speech. "Have a shower. Then we could grab breakfast from this place down the road—Tempters... If you're up to it." Despite his words, he made no move to get up and instead, burrowed further down into the couch. His cheek pressed against the back of Max's shoulder.
Testament to how exhausted he really was. Max doubted he'd be using her as a life-sized teddy bear otherwise.
"Too earlier," Max muttered, hoisting the blanket back up to cover them and promptly started drifting off. "Maybe in another three hours."
Though she was usually an early riser and something of an insomniac, functioning on two and a half hours sleep wasn't preferable. Four—now that she could live with. But for the past week she hadn't managed even that amount each night and it was taking its toll on her. Along with the stress of the move.
The phone went. It's shrill ring slashing through the silence. Viciously severing all thoughts of returning to the land of dreams.
Rubbing the sleep from her eyes, Max reluctantly removed herself from the cocoon of warmth and went to answer the troublesome appliance. Mutely cursing the fact that it was set in it's cradle on the counter in the kitchen and therefore across the room. "That had better not be Krit—" she threatened no one in particular and snatched it up before it could continue to a fifth piercing ring. "Max here—" She stepped back into the small family room where it was infinitely warmer.
God bless the creator of cordless phones.
"Max. Thank goodness!" Came Mr's McDowell's distraught voice.
The brunette peered across at Ben who had flopped over and was frowning at her sleepily from the couch. Max rolled her eyes. "Hey," she replied, "This about Ben?"
"Yes. He didn't come home last night."
"It's ok, he crashed at mine." Max explained as she attempted to detangle her hair and succeeded only it making it worse. She gave up.
There was a brief, relieved exhale. And then, "Could you please get him on the phone?"
"Ben," Max called, waving the phone as she approached him on the couch. Her hand over the mouth piece, she held the device out to him looking sympathetic. "Your mom wants to talk to you."
Looking wide awake now, Ben accepted the phone. "Yeah?" He questioned, warily.
Not wanting to intrude on their conversation, Max left the room in an attempt to offer Ben some semblance of privacy. Since Max doubted getting back to sleep was a valid option now, she trudged back into the kitchen and put on the jug for a cup of coffee. They only had the instant stuff, but it was a better brand than the usual insta-sludge that was packaged and sold as coffee to the everyday Americans that couldn't afford anything better.
Almost everything was a cheap knock off of the original. Even the supposedly 'good' brands were a mere shadow of their former glory.
The loud whir followed by a sharp click signalled the water was done heating. Seizing two large mugs from the opened box on the counter, Max set about making the cups up.
Not five minutes later Ben drifted into the room and quietly accepted the proffered mug of steaming coffee. He slumped over the counter at her side. Phone in his other hand as he peered down at it with the unwavering intensity that used to have Max uncomfortable when focused solely on her. Whatever changes that had taken place, Ben still possessed his intense stares and uncanny, pensive stillness's. Even now, he seemed more like a living statue than a human sometimes.
His eyes rose and met hers. "She's pissed."
"I figured," Max responded dryly with a sip of her drink. "Don't worry. I'll run damage control—" she broke off. Her attention focused on the bits and pieces of a news bulletin that drifted in from the adjacent family room, replacing the cartoon that had been on prior.
Slipping back into the other room, Max turned the television up a little louder and sank back into the couch cushions to watch the broadcast.
"This is three news reporting—" was the bold voice of the reporter, as she spoke into her microphone. Behind her, it looked like part of a building had collapsed. The thick, concrete and steel frames were buckled. Parts of it charred, like it had caught fire and the front windows of the place had erupted. Leaving jagged and gaping holes while glass fragments glittered on the asphalt.
Joining Max, Ben leaned over the back of the couch, mug clutched firmly in both hands. He squinted at the scene playing on the television set. "That down town? "
"Not sure."
"—where eye witnesses claim to have seen a black SUV pulling away moments before the explosion that shook the Mercedyne Pharmaceuticals' main lab earlier this morning. It is understood to be the work of a localised gang known as the Furies. A group whose presence has been felt in Seattle for the past few months after the constant turf wars that with rival gang —"
"Mercedyne?" Ben murmured, thoughtfully. Brows drawn down. "Isn't that the place where your doctor was from—that Sandeman, guy?"
"Yeah," Max agreed, absently. Then frowned and glanced back at Ben. "How'd you remember that?" She hadn't needed to see her doctor much prior to her interstate move, despite her first few years being plagued with sickness. So she wondered how Ben could have remembered her doctor's name let alone the company he worked for.
Taking a sip from his drink, Ben continued his study of the events playing on the television as he spoke. "We came and visited you when you got that odd strain of fever when you were like, six or something. I remember your dad saying they were worried your mom's illness was genetic when you came down with similar symptoms. But you got over it."
That only made Max frown harder as she tried to grasp the illusive memory, only to have it turn to smoke. "I don't remember."
"Not surprising," Ben smiled ruefully down at her. "You weren't all there."
Max offered him a half-smile. "Gee, thanks."
"Five employees of the company have been hospitalised for their injuries. One of those in critical condition—"
Turning the volume of the television back down, Max dropped the remote on the cushion. The scene was nothing of great importance. Just the previous week, half an apartment complex had been obliterated in some sort of gang related incident. Wherever one looked there was nothing but death and destruction on what seemed a daily basis. The only reason this had made the news was because a business was involved.
"C'mon," Max prompted, standing from the couch with a cat-like stretch. "I wanna check into this list of motorbike dealers after we've grabbed something to eat and it isn't happenin' with us sitting around here."
"I'm gonna have to deal with my mom first. I've been grounded," Ben added, appearing none too pleased by the prospect.
Max pulled a face. Neither was she. "I'll handle it."
--x&x--
"I don't care what you say, she's a beauty. Sleek—"
"God, Jack. Would you shut up?!" Kavi snapped waspishly. He was massaging at his temples with enough force that it was probably enough to make his headache worse. So much for his claim of not getting hangovers. Looked like those days were numbered. "It's a goddamn car. Stop obsessing! If you're gonna obsess about something, find some hot chick that you'll stay with. At least then you'll be gettin' laid on a regular basis and you'll be talking about something other than Alec's friggin' car!"
"Screw you, you bastard!" Jack growled, hotly.
Kavi leered back, his deep hazel eyes glittering. "Sorry, not my type. Try again."
Alec wasn't sure why he put up with Jack. The boy had a temper like a land mine. Explosive and extremely easy to trigger. Kavi was similar, though he usually took a little more to get fired up but once he was, he could give Jack a real run for his money. Alec supposed that was why Kavi and Jack were constantly at each other's throat. It didn't help that Jack was usually rude and obnoxious to everyone—he had a habit of letting his mouth run away with him. While Kavi was usually a little more reserved.
Biggs—who preferred the nickname to his actual name—was the fun loving, peace keeper of the group. Also, as far as Alec was concerned, somewhat blind in his loyalties. Alec just figured it was a strange form of hero worshipping.
"Guys," Biggs tried to soothe..
Slipping his hands into his pockets, Alec tried to ignore the other pair. He was already in a bad mood and listening to their petty squabbling was only souring it further. All he wanted was pancakes or waffles washed down with a steaming double espresso—or what passed for it, anyway. Maybe then he could focus.
He was also seriously wishing he had parked his car closer instead of leaving it at Jack's place. Risking a car crash or having his car jacked would be preferable to witnessing the impending brawl.
"We both know anything's your type," Jack returned with a sneer. Ignoring Bigg's.
Kavi flushed an angry red from the tips of his dark, curly hair down his neck. "That's bullshit. You're the one who chases anything that moves—"
"Funny," Jack said, taking a carefully measured step towards his dark-haired sometimes-friend. Using his height to his advantage and making himself seem to tower over the shorter male. "I've never gone after your arse before. In fact—"
Finally Alec snapped. His patience depleted. "Would both of you knock it off?"
Kavi shot Alec a dirty look but shut his mouth.
On the other hand, Jack wasn't so smart. "What the fuck's up with you, man?" He asked. Ice blue eyes narrowed, studying Alec thoughtfully. "You've been in a pissy mood since yesterday. I thought you'd be happy that we came back early. Or did Rachel refuse to put out again?"
"Leave Rachel out of this," Alec warned, shooting Jack a dark look.
Jack snickered, tauntingly. "Probably haven't even made second base. And you were always the one saying the answer to everything was getting laid."
"That was Seth," Kavi corrected, throwing Jack a look that said he was an utter moron and it would be best to shut his trap.
"Seriously man," Biggs added, casting Alec a sidelong glance. Having more sense than Jack and knowing how to read the signs and tell when Alec was at his limit. "Rachel's a nice girl. Probably one of the few genuinely nice ones still available. Don't let her... intimacy issues get to you."
"I told you, leave Rachel out of it." Alec's expression warned anymore said in that area would not be welcomed.
Regarding Alec for a moment, Biggs grimaced and let it drop.
Lowering his sunglasses over his currently light-sensitive eyes, Kavi frowned at the pair. "Whatever man. Hey, what was up with your mom this morning? I swear I thought she was gonna rip me a new one when I called your place and then when I got there, it was if nothing was wrong."
So much for avoiding their questions, Alec mused running a hand through his hair and ducking into the narrow, covered alley of what had once been home to a wealth of specialist restaurants and foods. It now housed mediocre cafés and food stalls at best. The dim lighting in the alley and close quarters of everything probably wouldn't be ideal for those who were claustrophobic, but Rachel loved the rustic feel of the place. It didn't do much for Alec, although he could appreciate the almost timeless sense that pervaded the old Pre-Pulse brick and wooden structures.
"She was just pissed at Ben," he replied. Good old Ben, he mused opening the door to the their destination. It swung wide—enough force behind it, that the wood shuddered violently as it slammed into the burnt red coloured wall of the establishment. Startling a few customers near the front of the café and drawing the eyes of its angry proprietors. Looks to which, Alec studiously paid no attention to.
Kavi winced at the sound and Jack even appeared stunned at Alec's reaction.
"What he do this time?" Biggs queried, eying the wall and door for damage. But apparently satisfied that there was none, returned his attention to his mate. "I thought he's been layin' low cuz of what happened with Dustin and Cole before the trip. We never did find out what they said to him that set him off like that."
"He didn't come home," was Alec's response. Leaving out that Ben had also given Connor stitches the previous night at Crash.
Knowing Connor, he probably deserved it—he was mouthy, in much the same way Jack could be and held an intense dislike of Ben. Crash was also one of Ben's usual haunts, so it was likely Connor had gone there to start something. It didn't mean that Alec was pleased with his brother's behaviour. That was three guys from the squad now that Ben had incapacitated. However briefly.
This time, Jack and Kavi shared a baffled look. "It's not the first time," Kavi reasoned. "So what's the big deal? You're both big boys and can take care of yourselves. Hell, Ben took out two of your linebackers at the same time without any problems."
"Tell that to my mom," Alec muttered, donning a smirk.
"Which reminds me, I heard that Max was back in town," Jack piped in carelessly and Kavi stiffened where he stood. "Apparently Zack ran into her yesterday while he was ridin' around. Said she had mad skills on a bike and was trying to get her to enter that rally this weekend."
Alec didn't appreciated the cautious glance that he was spared.
"Yeah, I heard she was back in town," Alec said, indifferently. "Went over to her place when we got back, but she was out."
Kavi stared hard. "And you didn't bother telling us?"
Refraining from saying anything, Biggs pulled back to observe. He hadn't gotten to know Max personally. She had been gone a year before he had started mixing with Alec and taking the mantle of being best friend.
"Dude that's almost as bad as her leaving and not saying goodbye first," Jack added in irritation. Alec wasn't sure why Jack cared so much, he clashed with Max about as much as he did with Kavi. Friends or not, they had never been particularly close. Though even Jack had missed the only girl to their all man band. "I get that you might still be pissed about that, but we all could have gone over there. What about Krit? You know if he's back? Zack didn't mention him."
Alec shrugged.
Jack frowned at Alec's response. Then his expression twisted into one of sardonic amusement. His icy-blue eyes glittered ruthlessly as his lips tugged up at the corners in a warped grin. "Hang on, hang on—that's where you vanished off to last night? I thought you were goin' to see Rachel?"
"Was gonna invite Max to the party last night. It's been four years. Thought it would be a good way of her making new connections for high school," Alec muttered offhandedly. "And you know Rachel never goes to those sorts of things."
Jack's smirk broadened. "Right. So of course you decide to invite Max along instead."
"She was his best friend, man," Kavi pointed out. Pausing in rubbing his temples, he peered over at Jack. Eyes narrowed in confusion and suspicion as they approached the café's counter. "Hey, when did you see Zack?"
"The party," Jack replied, with a glance slanted towards the dark-haired boy. "Turned up looking for Zane. Was ranting about something and mentioned Connor. Ben came up once or twice. Told me about Max and left."
"Huh," Kavi murmured, the picture of confusion. Though Alec got the impression he wasn't quite as confused as he let on.
Jack grinned and clapped him hard on the back, making Kavi almost stumble into the slender girl lined up in front of them. "Don't bother. You'll never understand him. Just like I don't understand golden boy, here. I mean, Chelsea was all over him last night before he left. A little somethin' in her drink," he murmured, lowly. Casting his eyes around, to make sure no one was eaves dropping. "She won't remember the night before and Rachel's none the wiser."
"Yeah, that's the difference between us," Alec snorted. He was almost certain the girl in front of them had muttered a disgusted 'pig' under her breath. "I like mine conscious so she at least remembers the good time we had."
Biggs was of a similar belief but it was Kavi that didn't bother hiding the revulsion from his expression as he faced Jack. "And what you just said would be why you don't keep your girlfriends," Kavi said. "They sense the whole 'fiend' vibe you give off and run before you sink your hooks into them. Or other body parts. Then you wonder 'Why me?'"
Completely unrepentant, Jack shrugged.
"Hey, order my usual will ya?" Alec cut in, pulling out a few bills to cover the cost. He was not sticking around for another of their full-blown arguments. No matter the fact that this one at least was valid. "I think I'll go save us some seats in the back."
"Sure," Jack agreed easily, swiping the cash as Biggs took Alec's place in line. "But I keep the change."
Rolling his eyes, Alec dismissed the fairer blonde. "Knock yourself out."
"Something else is bothering you," Kavi said once they were some distance from Jack. It was a simple statement and that more than anything irked Alec. Having someone as perceptive as himself had always been helpful. Now wasn't one of those times. "And don't try the same bullshit you pulled on Jack. Something's eating you... Has been for a while. So, willing to spit it out?"
The blonde waved a dismissive hand. "There you go again. Nothing's wrong. It's all a figment of your demented imagination."
"Demented or not, I can see right through you," Kavi countered, stubbornly.
"Maybe," Alec ventured, cautiously. His voice pitched low, as Kavi leaned in to hear his words. "You should mind you own damn business." The blonde grinned humourlessly at the other boy as he finished. Pulling away, he resumed his search for a set of tables at the back of the establishment.
Hardly new to Alec's avoidance tactics, Kavi scowled removing his sunglasses then flinched against the glare of the lights overhead as he trailed after his friend. "I'm just trying to help you," he said.
"Yeah well, maybe I don't want your help," Alec tossed back over his shoulder.
Not giving up the argument just yet, Kavi grinned. His hazel eyes knowing and it was almost like he was looking through Alec though the latter knew it impossible. It was enough to make him extremely wary though. "I know what this is about."
"Oh yes, do tell," the blonde drawled back cynically. Knowing he'd get an answer regardless of whether he wanted it or not.
"This is about Max."
"Really now?" Alec queried, blithely. "I think you may have hit your head a little too hard on that table last night. 'Cuz your thinking's impaired. This has nothing to do with her."
Kavi could be relentless at times and all Alec wanted was for him to shut up and just leave things as they were, but Kavi didn't. If he thought he was right about something he could be like a pit bull. Highly infuriating and hard to get rid of. "It still bothers you that she said goodbye to him and not you, doesn't it?"
"Why should it bother me?" Alec cocked his head. Trademark smirk fitted firmly in place, though his eyes were hardly shining in mirth. He stared Kavi down. "She always did whatever she wanted. I didn't need to hold her hand every step of the way."
The next look Kavi threw Alec was shrewd. "While that may have been true, you still liked the idea of her needing you—"
"Look," Alec interjected. "You're entitled to your opinion, but when it comes to what I'm feeling; you know nothing. So don't try to assume that you do. It's not welcome and at the moment, neither are you."
"Guilt," Kavi observed, making Alec swallow down his growing irritation. "That's what this is."
"If you say so, pal."
"Hey," Kavi voiced. His attention suddenly focused elsewhere and he froze in following Alec passed a ornately carved wooden partition. His eyes were squinted as he peered into the far, darkened corned of the store. Part of it was sectioned off with curtains and another wooden divider. He pointed. "Isn't that Ben? The hell's he doing here? I figured he'd be grounded."
Recognising his brother, Alec tensed. "He is," he confirmed, slowly.
Bemusement radiating from him in waves, Kavi shook his head. Then winced and clutched at it. "Well, clearly he isn't. Why's he sitting by himself, though?"
"Why does Ben do anything he does?" Alec answered.
"I dunno. Never did underst—" Kavi started forward and was jostled sideways, suddenly. Almost falling before he managed to regain his balance and he glared over at the person who had bumped into him. "Watch where you're—"
The words died in his mouth. Alec would have made fun of him and his sudden inability to finish simple sentences, except he found that he was just as speechless. Entranced by the girl whom had collided with his friend.
Her features were fine, exotic—a paradoxical mixture of soft full curves and sharp lean lines. Full mouth set in what seemed a habitual pout. Though her large doe-like eyes were what drew Alec in. There was a look to them that made him think of melted chocolate when warm—something that he shouldn't have attributed to them when they were currently fixed on Kavi. Glowing in a simmering annoyance. The girl was stunning—there was no other word for it. But there was more to it than that, even if he didn't quite get it.
"You're the one that walked into me," the disgruntled girl retorted. A platter of half eaten French toast carefully held aloft in one hand. The other, rested on her cocked hip, causing her red-brown curls to fall over her shoulders. This also allowed Alec an excellent view down her loose fitting halter neck. Presenting him with a large expanse of cleavage that seemed was barely held back by what had to be the flimsiest black lace he'd ever seen.
Nice, Alec's mind added appreciatively.
"I, er—" Kavi mumbled.
The girl arched a brow coolly at Kavi's flustered response. Dark eyes searing as they scrutinised the now extremely red-faced boy. Almost as though trying to work out some sort of puzzle, then she shook her head dismissively. "Whatever," she muttered, and turned sharply on her heel. Interest gone, she edged passed Kavi completely oblivious to Alec's presence.
Not once had she looked at him. Noticed him. If that wasn't a blow to his ego, Alec wasn't sure what was. What bothered him most was that there was something strangely familiar about her. The mannerisms he'd caught in those brief few seconds. Nor could he explain the sudden inexplicable desire for her to acknowledge his presence. Even if it was just a quick once over but he hadn't been granted even that.
Clearly she wasn't from their high school otherwise he'd have noticed her. Hell, it would be hard not to. There was the possibility that she was from another school. There were four high schools within the Seattle area. Then again, maybe her parents didn't have enough to school her? Post-Pulse American wasn't big on the whole education thing and what schools there were, cost a lot for placements. More than a lot of people could afford.
It was almost funny. That the country was trying to better itself. Drag itself up from the gutters like all the other third world countries that it was reduced to and yet, education for the next generation was no longer considered something of importance.
"You're staring."
Alec's eyes redirected themselves to his friend and buried both hands in his pockets. Nor denying or confirming anything. "Was I?" he countered.
Kavi shook his head. Whether to clear his own thoughts or in amusement, Alec wasn't sure. Again, Kavi winced at the motion. "Yeah, Buddy. You were. But don't worry, it's not like I'll tell Rachel. You didn't do anything." The dark haired youth pulled a face then, as though just considering something. "Actually, you didn't even say a thing."
That made Alec start. He had forgotten about Rachel. But it had been months since they had started dating and he had ceased his tomcatting ways for her. She wasn't ready for that step yet. Which meant it had been equally as long in his abstinence and the way things were progressing with Rachel, it looked like he would be going another few months without. At worst, possibly another year.
He'd wait, though. He was sure he would do anything, if only for her smile.
"It was a rhetorical question," Alec muttered, eyes drawn back to the unknown girl. Trying to work out what it was about her that screamed at him to pay closer attention. It was followed by an odd feeling in the pit of his stomach as he tracked her progress across the café before she slid into a seat across from his brother.
Seemed Kavi was plain dumbfounded. "I didn't know Ben had another girlfriend," he glanced at Alec. His expression suddenly guarded. "Did you?"
"Does it look like I'm his keeper?"
"Suppose not," Kavi conceded, eying the couple. "Looks like she is." Then he frowned and tipped his head. This time more slowly, to accommodate his still aching head. "Y'know, she sorta reminds me of someone. Can't quite place my finger on it, though."
"If she's with Ben, then she's trouble," Alec rationalised. Ignoring the sinking feeling in his stomach.
Kavi sighed loudly, not looking at all convinced. "You and Ben have to get over this ridiculous feud. Don't you think you've been at it long enough? And if Max's back in town, how do you think she'll feel with you two at each other's throats? You guys were closest to her. Whenever we wanted to find her, we'd look for you and if not you, we'd look for Ben."
"Who cares?" Alec muttered.
Seeing he was losing the battle, Kavi gave up and changed the subject. "I'm just glad Jess wasn't here to see me make an ass of myself." He glared back toward the counter. "Or Jack."
Running a hand through his hair, Alec smirked easily at his friend. Glad to be discussing a different subject. He didn't want to think about Max nor talk about her. "He's the least of your worries."
--x&x--
"So, what time was Seth swinging by?" Max queried, setting the reheated plate of French toast and syrup in front of Ben.
"Should be over in the afternoon," the seventeen year-old paused, hazel eyes flashing over her shoulder so fleetingly, Max was almost convinced she was seeing things. But when the blissful grin that graced his features died and was replaced with that dulled down, cynical look of his, Max was informed otherwise. "And look what the cat dragged in," he muttered, fork poised mid-stab at his plate.
"Hey guys. Don't mind me crashing the party, do you?" Zane announced loudly as he came tromping over to them and from the stir, disturbing half the patrons. It was surprising Max hadn't heard him from half a block away with all the noise he made. "And look who I found loitering around the corner..."
Peering around him, Max froze as Alec and the rude dark-haired boy who had knocked into her were practically dumped in her lap. Zane the traitor, smiling good naturedly and oblivious or very skilful in ignoring the sudden tension that had shrouded the entire table. Food and drinks temporarily forgotten.
So that was the reason for Ben's sudden change in mood. Max's eyes darkened in response. "Great," she muttered resentfully. "All hail the return of his majesty."
Alec peered back at her in puzzlement. "What?"
He looked exactly like Ben. As was to be expected, being identical twins. But even their hair was cut in exactly the same fashion. Their dressing was, disturbingly enough, similar too. The only real difference between them was their eyes and bearing. It seemed impossible for it not to be picked out immediately. Alec stood in a lazy, indifferent sort of slouch. Projecting an easy arrogance and self-confidence that his twin lacked.
Max wasn't sure what to expect when seeing him again and was almost disappointed when he didn't recognise her right off.
Technically she knew they couldn't go back to the way they were. The way things had been left between her and Alec—it just prevented that sort of ease. Besides, back then she had been one of the boys. One of them and now, now she was little better than an outsider. Someone who had moved on and then come back to something that didn't exist anymore. Ben had been right when saying that when people grew and changed you had to relearn them.
"Nothin'," Max replied with roll of her eyes.
The dark-haired boy that stood with Alec cleared his throat, drawing her eyes. "Sorry 'bout earlier," he muttered. Cheeks tinged a slight red and destroying whatever hope he had had of pulling off the same aloofness that Alec portrayed.
"This has to be a first," Ben observed casually.
Max could tell he wasn't happy with the situation. "'Least he has manners," she admitted, silently wondering if the boy would have apologised had Ben and Zane not been there. He hadn't seemed like he was going to apologise for knocking into her earlier. Then again, he had been flustered. "First time or not."
"What's goin' on over here?" Queried a cautious looking blonde.
Tall but lanky, he was good looking. Though in a different way than Ben or Zane. He was a tad too much on the girly side for Max's tastes, with his full pink lips and soft almost angelic features framed by pale blonde hair. Which desperately needs a cut, Max thought examining him. Isn't he the asshole that was up for drugging girls in order for a quickie?
"Just crashing Ben's party," Zane grinned.
"So," Alec began, smiling charmingly down at Max. Drawing all attention to him. "You must be the new girl in Ben's life. I'm sure he's told you all about me," he continued, trying to take her hand. This only resulted in Zane choking on a laugh as the limb was declined.
Oh hell no. Max inwardly pulled a face and shot Ben a questioning glance, which he returned with a one of his own. She didn't quite understand it. Though she supposed she didn't really need to with the way things were already progressing. God Alec was even more pompous than he had been before she had left. With him the way he was, Max could sort of see why Ben would possess such insecurities around her. It only fanned the anger she held for her erstwhile best friend.
"He has," Max smiled genially back at Alec with a cheer that she didn't feel. It was so bright it almost hurt her to hold it. But she wasn't a brilliant con artist for nothing. "Nothing good and besides, I don't like jocks," she informed him casually before taking a swig of her washed-out latte.
He looked disgruntled only a moment before his expression turned resigned. "Figures."
Peering over at Ben, Max stole a bite from his French toast. He didn't look like he minded. "So do you usually flirt with the girls in your brother's life?" She shook her head in disappointment, while trading Ben a bite of her own jam and cream covered croissant. "What would Rachel say?"
Both Ben and Zane snorted at that, while Alec just looked bemused. "Ben," he stared intently over at his brother. The look was sharp. "You been sharing all the details of my life again?"
"Only the good parts," Ben conceded, unaffected.
The unknown blonde interrupted, ignoring Ben and Alec's little exchange . "Listen, what you think doesn't matter," he stated, leaning against the end of Max's bench. "You don't know Alec. So why don't you keep your pretty little mouth shut and we'll all be happy."
"Jack—" both twins warned. Startled, they glared at each other.
Wincing at the volume, the dark-haired boy that had accompanied Alec rubbed at is temples while Zane masterfully slipped onto the bench next to Ben. Trapping him on the seat between the wall and the table to prevent him from jumping in as Max turned her sharp gaze on Jack.
That can't be him, Max studied the unknown blonde. But it couldn't be a coincidence. He had to be her old friend but he looked nothing like the way he used to—face cherubic with his chubby cheeks—he hadn't been particularly tall back then and definitely not lean. Max still couldn't recognised him except for that tell-tale twisting of his lips that had been customary for the blonde. She felt her disgust surge. He hadn't been the nicest boy around but she had never thought he would turn out the way he had. Looked like Jack was one of those jerks she despised.
"Look who's talking, pretty boy," she arched her brow, disdainfully. "Why don't you take your own advice? It's no wonder you don't keep your girlfriends."
"You don't know anything about me," Jack smirked back at her with a leer Max longed to smack off his ridiculously pretty face. She could see his anger just simmering below the thin veneer of arrogance and was tempted to see if she could coax him into an actual fight just so she could knock him down a peg or six. "Although, I'd love to show you a thing or two. What do you say about coming back to my pla—"
The look Ben threw Jack was enough to shut the blonde up and Zane shifted again. Ensuring there wasn't even wiggle room for Ben to get out.
"Aw is a little poetry too much for a girl to expect before getting down and dirty?" Max simpered, with a mock pout. "Then again, you never were one for the arts, were you Jackie? And I know a lot more about you than you seem to think. Like the fact you were scared of the dark until you were twelve and you got locked in the basement. I know you cried like a baby when Ben accidentally lost your favourite baseball card—"
"Oh c'mon, Max. Give the guy a break," Zane cajoled. His smile had to have reached all new kinds of levels when it came to evil. Obviously deriving some sort of sick pleasure from it all as the group descended into silence.
Jack looked horrified, repentant and embarrassed beyond belief, but Max cared little about him or how he felt at this point. The first dark-haired boy she had stumbled into peered back at her in dumbfounded recognition. Kavi, Max's mind supplied. It had to be Kavi, since the only other dark-haired boy unaccounted for from Max's childhood was Seth and he had bright green eyes.
For his part, Alec looked only a tad surprised by the revelation. His eyes lit in a mixture of emotions that were impossible to work out. Almost nervously, he rubbed at the back of his neck and cleared his throat. It lasted for the whole of five seconds before some invisible switch was flicked on and Alec fell back into his easy slouch. All overconfident charm once more.
"Maxie," he murmured, a smirk sliding into place as he tested the name. Like he had forgotten how it was said. His gaze swept appraisingly back over her. "You're looking good."
She supposed most girls would flush with the way his eyes run up and down her lazily—but she didn't. It was all too reminiscent of the last time she had seen him and he hadn't given her even five minutes. All she felt was a sense of detachment. Like she was watching her life go by in a hazy watercolour picture. Or listening to a story that had been passed on between so many people that it lost its clarity—it's meaning and in the end was nothing like the original but a diluted imitation. Or the shadow of what it once was.
Somehow, it all seemed so anticlimactic.
Once, she had heard that the opposite to love wasn't hate, but indifference and wondered if she had been running on the echo's of her emotions for so long that she had nothing left to feel when it came to Alec. He still managed to annoy her and piss her off, sure. But if he didn't, was this all that she could dredge up to feel for him?
"What can I say?" Came Max's flippant reply. "I was blessed with good genes."
He shrugged at her remark. "Yeah," he allowed, sharp gold eyes intent on her. This wasn't the end of it, Max knew. It was only the beginning and she wasn't looking forward to what was sure to follow.
"Max!" Kavi interjected. His large hands settled on her shoulders as he looked at her. To his credit, his now bright hazel eyes never dropped from her face. "God, everyone missed you," he said with a grin and nodded at the red-faced Jack, letting Max go. "Dumb ass over there, too. What brings you back to our neck of the woods?"
A playful smirk tugging at the corner of her mouth, Max studied her old friends in mock-boredom. Even as her eyes meandered over their features in fascination, noting the changes and similar characteristics of their old personalities in their expressions. "Business. Dad's been called in for this big case."
"I'm Kavi, by the way," the boy tacked on, looking sheepish.
Her grin widened and she laughed at his expression. "I know."
"Could still kick your ass like when we were kids, too," Ben added smugly with a look directed at Jack as he fell into his narrative. His expression so open and alive that Max wasn't able to prevent the genuine smile that bloomed upon her face. Though it didn't escape her notice that Ben seemed suddenly just as indifferent to his brother's appearance as she herself was. "Shoulda seen the guy she laid out last night," he continued. "Twice her size, she caught his arm when he tried to make a grab at her. He was on the ground, shoulder dislocated in, what?" Ben glanced at Zane questioningly. "Ten seconds?"
Whistling, Zane considered the question. "I'd say closer to five."
"Five," Ben nodded.
"So you're lucky Maxie didn't get a hold of you, Jack," Zane grinned teasingly at the blonde. "'Less you don't mind having your ass handed to you by a size three."
Not quite red-faced anymore, Jack peered sideways. "Wouldn't be the strangest thing that's happened..." He muttered under his breath.
It was then that Max noted another boy that had joined them. He was built a little lighter than Alec and shorter by about half a head. Though Max sensed his keen coffee eyes likely made up for most of his shortcomings as they weighed her silently. Almost as though awaiting something.
"I'm Biggs," he stepped forward when no one else introduced him, prompting Max's brow to arch at the name.
There was no way that could possibly be his real name. Unbidden, she considered the possibility that he was named for something else instead. Or, he's compensating for the lack of something. Like all the false advertising that was about these days.
He shook Max's hand while using the same smile that Alec had tried on her. She had to admit, imitated or not the boy had get smile. "I've heard a lot about you," he proceeded, smoothly. "You're like a legend among the guys here—even Zack. No one could beat Max at this—or no one was as fast as she was in that. I'm surprised no one thought to mention your unsurpassable beauty—"
"Cut the crap, Biggs," Alec interjected. "Would you stop hitting on her?"
"I'm sensing some territorial issues here," Jack observed and received an elbow to the gut curtsey of Kavi. The blonde glared murderously at the inflictor of his pain. "I'm warning you," he threatened, lowly.
Kavi, having clearly been on the receiving end of such looks and threats numerous times, was immune. "I'm guessing you're the reason Ben didn't get home last night?" He queried instead, glancing between Ben and Max in something close to suspicion. It was eerily similar to the expression Zane had adopted the previous night.
Falling back into her seat, Max shrugged casually. "We had plans," was her vague response. Having a fair idea that she knew where this was going. But to add fodder to feed the rumour mill... She grinned and winked at Ben. "Our boy's got skills."
"Oh, I bet he has," Jack drawled and was privileged with a slap upside the head. This time, from Max who had surged up from her seat like a viper and struck. He frowned at her.
"Shut it, smart ass."
Jack glanced away in a huff. "It's almost like she never left," he muttered sulkily, as he rubbed at his head.
"So... Is Krit back?" Alec went on to ask. Propped up against a chair from one of the adjacent tables.
The sound of Max's cell phone interrupted his question as it blared loudly.
Fishing the phone from the depths of her bag, Max checked the screen to see who it was and mutely thanked the deities for the text from her contact in Chinatown—Moody had come through yet again. "Nah," she replied, flipping her phone closed. "He's all set in New York with his apartment and apprenticeship deal. To leave would put a dent in whatever plans he has." Casting a quick look to where Ben was still barricaded against the wall by Zane, Max caught his eye. "That's us. Gotta blaze," she said, hauling her bag up from the seat.
Following suit, Ben shoved Zane out of the way. Forcing him off the bench and onto the hard polished wood of the floor.
Zane looked appalled as he hoisted himself up. "We just got here."
"You weren't even invited—hey!" Max squawked in protest as Alec's hand dove down her top and she slapped his invading limb away. But not before he hooked the fine gold chain out from the depths, bearing the pendant Ben had given her. "I don't care who you are," she complained indignant. "You dare put your hand down my top again and you lose it."
Her outrage went ignored.
"I didn't know you were religious," Alec stated simply, his eyes focused on the pendant though the set to his shoulders was enough to inform Max that it wasn't really the necklace that held his attention. That he wasn't really talking about the piece of jewellery. It had been Ben's. Everyone knew that. He released the pendant and it dropped. Back between the loose fabric of Max's top and skin.
Forcing away the wariness she felt, Max shrugged carelessly and slipped on her leather jacket. Only Ben knew why she now went everywhere with his pendant on. But even he didn't know all the details. "Let's just say I had an... enlightening experience."
"So, where you guys off to?" Kavi asked, curiously. "Why don't we all meet up for lunch?"
Now that she thought about it, Max considered he looked a little off colour and his eyes bloodshot. It bothered her that she had failed to notice it the first time and she usually prided herself in her observation skills. Boy looks like he needs a good sleep, she cocked her head, pursing her lips, contemplatively. Or something to cure that mean hangover of his.
"But the guys," Jack insisted, shifting his weight from foot to foot. Looking uncertain and annoyed as his eyes darted between everyone.
"Who gives a shit?" Zane shrugged dismissively and plopped back down into Ben's newly vacated bench. He leaned back against the covered back of the seat."You've been away with them for over a week and we just got our girl back. Unless of course, there's something you wanna share with us?"
Jack's previously rose tinged face, reddened with a vengeance and Max decided that was something worth questioning Ben about later.
With a careless roll of his shoulders, Alec conceded. "All right, then we can all meet up at mine."
"Hey, we never agreed to anything," Max argued. Arms crossed over her chest. Her eyes narrowed when Alec's own dipped below the level of her neck as though drawn by some invisible magnet... Oh no he didn't. "Oi, eyes on my face."
Kavi coughed while shaking his head in amusement. "Never learns."
"Oh c'mon, Max. Lighten up," Alec smirked, jovially. He went to sling an arm around her shoulders but she deftly brushed it aside. "Was just appreciating the view for what it is. No harm done."
She regarded him in obvious displeasure. Not appreciating his sense of humour in the slightest. "No harm done," she agreed carelessly, though her eyes and stance betrayed her annoyance. "Next time you make some wise ass crack about it, I can't promise you that things will stay that way."
"Ohh, the kitten has claws," Jack remarked and got smacked over the head again. Kavi was the culprit this time. "The fuck, man? Whose side are you on anyway?" The blonde complained in an aggravatingly boyish whine. Max was debating the boy's sanity. Then again, she always had imagined he had been dropped on the head as a baby one too many times and been permanently damaged when it came to brain function.
Kavi shot Jack an unapologetic grin. "The winning side and Maxie was never on the losing one."
"'Sides," Biggs intervened swiftly, "you really shouldn't insult the lady."
"Pussy," the fair blonde spat back.
"Don't cancel your other plans of account of us," Ben cut in as he sidled over next to Max. Absently tugging the fat wallet from his jacket, he snatched out a bill and tossed it on the table. "Max and I won't be able to make lunch." He reached for his jacket draped over the back of the bench he'd been seated at and threw it on, while glancing over at Max. "We taking your bike or my car?"
"Your car," she suggested with a teasing grin, brow arched. "Unless you don't mind riding the bitch pad."
Ben pretended to consider that. "I can think of far worst punishments."
"Then I'll see you guys at the rally on Saturday?" Max asked, returning her attention to the others as they watched her and Ben's interaction in thinly veiled curiosity.
"You're actually going?" Alec asked, sounding only mildly interested.
Max wasn't sure what to make of his question. It sounded fairly straightforward, though she wasn't able to tell if there was anything else hidden within in. She cursed herself, since when did she bother with the intricacies of speech and stumbling into the well laid traps they sometimes posed? "Recon," she answered. "Just to check out the competition and pay outs. Anyway, I wanna see what Ben's got."
"Since when did Ben have a motorbike?" Jack snorted.
"Since today," Max returned casually, not liking the way Jack had dismissed the idea without even considering it. Bastard. "He's pretty much sorted out what he's wanting, now we just gotta pick it up."
Jack choked. "But those things cost—"
Zane's bright sapphire eyes grew large and Max could just see him working things out in his head. "Last night," he cut Jack off, "when Max hustled those guys for that 1G and then you guys ran off—"
"Bingo," Ben nodded, head tilted toward Max who was smirking. "Maxie gets her kicks by swindling idiots outta their cash. The harder; the better."
"That's my girl," Kavi grinned.
Ben's eyes snapped over to Kavi's and narrowed. "Our girl."
Was it her, or had the testosterone levels in the room suddenly skyrocketed? Males, she snorted derisively. "And we've gotta go," she repeated, only a little impatiently.
Jack pursed his lips. "All fear Queen Max's wrath if she doesn't get her way," he smirked and ducked the hand that went to strike him. "Ha!" He exclaimed proudly, not seeing the second hand that came and clipped him about the ears.
"Ha!" Max smirked back, triumphant. "Well I'll see you guys on Saturday, then. It was nice meeting you, Biggs," she tacked on, belatedly.
He smiled back. "The pleasure was all mine."
Whatever. You may have a gorgeous smile, Max returned the gesture. But you're not getting into my pants.
Alec rolled green-gold eyes at Biggs in annoyance. "What about tomorrow?" He pressed, focusing on her. "C'mon Max. You can't say that you're gonna be out all tomorrow as well. We can all hang out then."
What are you playing at? Her expression was incredulous. Whatever it was that he was selling, she wasn't buying.
"Actually," she began, shifting her weight. "I've got stuff I have to deal with tomorrow. Won't be sorted until Saturday afternoon, at the earliest." Shrugging it off, she slipped her bag over her shoulder. "Then Ben plans on showing me 'round the sectors in time for the Rally later Saturday night."
Alec shrugged. "Fun," he muttered sarcastically, pulling a face at her.
Not really caring what he thought, Max shrugged off his words and him as she turned towards the front of the café. Ben waiting to the side for her to finish up with the guys. "Well as they say," she murmured. "To each her own."
A somewhat limited view on Alec's thoughts into Max's return. Next chapter will focus more on the things that weren't mentioned and whatnot. Also, bringing more of the actual plot into the story now that I've gotten the majority of intro and re-intros out of the way.
Thanks for reading and hopefully you enjoyed it.