Yeah...I've come to the conclusion that money is evil! Especially since I never have any of it!

I know...isn't that just evil?

This part was way too funny! I just love Maria and her "drama." So, Max and Liz are running away...hmmm...where to?

Hmm...interesting...they shared an instant connection and don't know why. And they know each other's favorite ice cream...how adorable is that? That is one of those little things you get to know about someone...

Hurrah! A new part! Loved it! They kissed!

Hmm... I haven't updated in a while, so, here... Another crappie part from me...

With Nothing Left To Lose.
Part 10-

Ya know that feeling you sometimes get when you first wake up? The one where you feel like you only just closed your eyes three seconds ago and you can't help but wonder why the hell your alarm clock is buzzing and blinking 10:45 am?

Yeah, I hate that...

Anyway, it took me a good half and hour to get dressed this morning. I think cause the first thing after the above feeling went away, I decided that I was going to take a day off from severing customers at the Crashdown. There was still just too much crap on my mind to deal with people demanding their food hotter or quicker or better tasting.

Idiots.

I took about half of those thirty minutes to pick something to wear. But I don't know why. I normal just grab whatever the hell is clean. Why was today different?

Anyway, I finally decided on a black tank top and khakis.

Cause let's all face it, I'm so damn hip...

Hey, does anyone remember that song? Ya know, by Tower Of Power? The one the Drew Carey Show did a little dance to? Come on... Ya know, the one...

“ What is hip? Hipper then hip? Tell me, tell me. If you think you know. What is hip...?”

~

“Anyone here, yet?” I call as I climb down the stairs, two at a time.

Woohoo. Me being “hip” again...

“No!” I hear someone call from the kitchen. “But I did bring coffee!”

“Really?” I smile and make my way through the double doors. “How nice of you...”

“Well, of course. Anyway, I needed to do something to waste time. Who came up with the crappie idea to open at noon instead of eight? I had like...five hours to burn...”

“Yeah, like you had anything better to do...” I mumble and grab a double mocha out of Alex's hand.

“Hey, for your information, I did have something better to do...” Alex smiled and led the way into the dinning area.

I follow and play along. “Really?”

“Uh huh.” He answers simply and shows me to a table. “I was supposed to go to the record store... Ya know, try to pawn off some more of The Whits singles to Lexx.”

“How did it go last time?” I ask, already knowing the answer. Lexx is basically a twenty something control freak @#%$ who strings starving artists along... But Alex still tries.

“Not so well. Although, he did say that he would come see us play next week and decided then. Chris and Markus think he's full of @#%$ but Nicky and I have hope.” He explained and wondered over to the alien themed jukebox. He pressed a couple of buttons before a Jimmy Eat World song started to play.

I smile at this.

“What?” He asks and comes to stand in front of me.

“You always have hope...” I answer, smiling a proud smile.

“Yeah well, not much is left.” He answered quietly and then offered his hand. “May I have this dance?” He asked with a small bow.

I giggle at this.

“Are you kidding? Jimmy Eat World at eleven-fifteen in the morning?”

“Yeah. Anyway, it's one of the good ones.” He laughs.

“What made you choose ‘In the Middle'?” I ask stupidly.

And then it starts. The chorus begins and good old Alex starts to serenade me...

“ It just takes some time,
Little girl, you're in the middle of the ride.
Everything, everything will be just fine,
Everything, everything will be all right, all right.”

By the end, I am hysterically laughing and Alex is twirling me ‘round and ‘round. And all I can think about is how this is the perfect Saturday morning. All I can think about is how I don't have to worry about anything cause I know Alex is here to worry for me. That's what's he does. He just makes me feel free. And for that, I am more grateful to him than anyone in this world or any other.

“See? I knew I could get you smiling!” He laughs as he spins me one last time.

“I think I'm going to be sick...” I laugh even harder and wrap my arms around my stomach, so I can brace myself against the table. “Eww...”

“Oh. What? You can't handle it?” Alex teases as he grabs his drink and gulps it down.

“Oh. I can handle it. Just not now...” I sigh and pull a chair out to sit in. I still have a good fifteen minutes before Maria will show up, so I make the decision and I prepare myself to tell him most everything.

“What's up, Liz?” He asks carefully and sits backwards in one of the wooden chairs across from me.

“A lot happened last night. A whole hell of a lot and I think it's best if I fill you in.” I sigh again and take a slow sip of my chocolaty drink.

“Alright. Fill me in, Parker...” And as soon as his finishes his sentence, I spill. I tell him everything...expect all the mushy me and Max things. Alex is like a brother to me and he normally really doesn't like to know who I have a crush on or who gave me my first kiss.

It's just a little too weird...

Anyway, once I was done, only two words came to mind. And they were Maria's. Bobble Head.

Alex was just nodding his head in a kind of bemused, stunned manor. I was beginning to worry a little. Normally, he takes this kind of thing really well but maybe this time, it was just a little too much...

“Alex?” I ask attentively. I don't want to push but I want to know he's okay with it. It's my whole worry and guilt complex working again.

“Yeah?” He answers and continues to stare out the front door.

“You okay?”

“We're they staying with Michael?” He asks suspiciously.

“Um, yeah...” I answer as I watch him get up from his seat and walk back over to the jukebox. He presses a couple more buttons and announces that we have company. I unwillingly twist in my seat and see Michael, Max, and Max's sister all standing in front of the Crashdown's doors. “Ah crap.” I mumble causing Alex to chuckle as he turned up the volume of the music.

I instantly hear Tenacious D and I know that I have to get up and open the door. So, I saunter over and casually unlock the lock. “You should have just left it open...” I yell over my shoulder at Alex. But he only shrugs in reply and walks a couple paces closer to me.

“Are you going to do the introductions?” He whispers and puts his arm around my shoulder.

“No.” I answer simply but stay put. Having Alex around me when Max is in close proximity, kinda make me feel less...weak and out of control.

And right now, that's a good thing...

I'm telling you, Alex is like my rock...

“Hey guys.” He calls cheerfully and waves a warm welcome. “I'm Alex Charles Whitman. And I'm at your service during your stay here in Roswell...” He nods just slightly and I can tell it made both Max and Isabel uncomfortable.

This makes me smile. And laugh. I really have to try to hold it in...

It's kinda sad...

“Yeah, Alex. Very funny.” Michael smiles sarcastically and moves past us rather quickly.

“Whoa. I'm just trying to be nice...” Alex laughs and puts up his hand, defensively.

I have both arms crossed over my chest and I'm still trying to suppress my laughter. It's not working, though. I let a couple strangles giggles out and Max looks towards me.

But I don't avoid his eyes this time. I look him straight on. And I smile. And he just looks puzzled. And I laugh more. And I don't think he gets it...

“Max. Isabel. This is Alex.” Michael calls from behind me and I turn just in time to see him take a drink from a small orange juice carton. “Alex. Meet Max and Isabel Evans.”

“Eww! Michael, what are you doing?” I squeal and before a weird silence falls over everyone. “Give me that!”

“What?!” He takes two steps back and another big drink. “I'm thirsty!”

“I don't care! That's for the restaurant!” I scream and go after him. “It's not for you! And you could have at least used a cup!”

“Fine. Alright.” Michael gives up and hands me the almost empty carton. “Geeze, you're as bad as Maria!”

“Very mature, Mikey G.” Tess laughs as she walks into the café. Kyle is following her. But he looks half asleep. “Isabel!” Tess shrieks and runs towards her. “How are you doing?”

“I'm okay.” I hear Isabel tell her in reply. “How's everything?”

“It's great... I'm so happy you guys finally made it!”

“Yeah. Happy...” Isabel mumbled before being dragged off to the side by Tess.

“Liz? You working today?” Kyle yawns and takes a seat on a stole by the counter.

Still holding the juice container from Michael, I explain how I took today off as a “mental health day”. This caught Max's attention immediately and I smiled brightly at him.

Maybe I shouldn't play these games right now. After seeing me yesterday, he probably thinks I'm an insane person already. Hmm...

But whatever... Today, I'm playing it hip and cool. Not pathetic and easily frightened like yesterday.

“Fine. Guerin, get in the kitchen and get me some coffee.” Kyle ordered as he laid his head against the cool counter top.

“I second that, only I want waffles.” Alex announced and took a seat next to Kyle. “Tess, Isabel, Max? You guys want anything?” He smirked towards Tess and Isabel and waited for a reply that never came.

“Dude, I'm not working today.” Michael declares as he collapses into a booth and motions for Max to follow suit.

“Huh uh.” I walk over and place the juice box in front of Michael. “You don't work tomorrow but you sure as hell work today!” I smile sweetly and wait for him to get up. It takes a while but when he finally does, I take his place in front of Max. “Is it okay if I sit here?” I whisper just loud enough for him to hear.

Hip and cool. That's me...

“Yeah.” he nods and I smile. And I remember just how wonderful it felt to be in his arms...

“Michael and Alex and Kyle! I need you guys to unload the Jetta. Mom decided that she didn't want to deal with dropping off all of the new alien crap, so she's paying me to!” Maria screamed as she lightly walked into the Crashdown, already carrying one box. “NOW!”

My thoughts of being held by Max were long crushed as I watched Alex helped Kyle get up and Michael open his mouth... “If she's paying you to do it yourself, then why do we have to do the work?”

“Cause you want to make a good impression on your future wife and mother-in-law... Right?” She answered sweetly as she brushed past him and placed an adoring kiss on his cheek.

“Whatever.” He answered in a mumble and started the semi-long walk outside.

Once Maria finished placing the box in the back, she came out with an order book and a smile on her face. “Welcome, to the Crashdown. I'll be your server today. What can I get you?”

“Waffles, strawberries, and whipped cream!” Tess called out. “Isabel, what do you want?”

“Can I get a fruit salad or something? Maybe some yogurt on the side...?” She asked meekly.

“Uh huh. And Max?” Maria moved to face him.

“Um, I don't know.” He answered uncomfortably.

“How bout a Heavenly Hash Special?”

“Sure. Whatever is fine.”

“Liz?”

“Um, can I get PB&J on toast?”

“Uh huh. I think Michael can manage that...” And with that she spun around and left for the kitchen.

Tess and Isabel continued talking in low whispers, so I decided to focus my attention on Max for a while.

“So...how is everything?” I ask lightly as I lean a little forward.

He swallows and answers, “Its okay.”

“That's good.” I smile but I realize that I need to do something about this new uncomfortableness that has fallen over us. “So, you sure you're okay?”

“Yeah.” He nods.

“Max, I know I don't really know you that well. Hell, aside from everything that happened between us last night, I don't know you at all. But I do know that something isn't right.”

He just takes a deep breathe. And I get kinda pissed.

“Do we need to run away again?” I tease. And believe me, I have no idea how or why. Cause I might be trying to play it hip and cool today but this just passed the border about thirty miles back. The person that is talking right now, it's not me. I mean, it is me but I don't know where all this...confidence is coming from. It's scary and I'm not sure that I really like it...

“I don't know.” He sighs and shoots a glance at Tess and Isabel. “There's just some stuff that I...we need to talk about...”

Ok, I'm lost now.

“You mean ‘we' as in us or ‘we' as in the aliens?” I ask in a weird tone.

“Both.” He answers simply. “Both...”

TBC...

Here ya go... And glad you like... ;p

With Nothing Left To Lose.
Part 10-

Ya know that feeling you sometimes get when you first wake up? The one where you feel like you only just closed your eyes three seconds ago and you can't help but wonder why the hell your alarm clock is buzzing and blinking 10:45 am?

Yeah, I hate that...

Anyway, it took me a good half and hour to get dressed this morning. I think cause the first thing after the above feeling went away, I decided that I was going to take a day off from severing customers at the Crashdown. There was still just too much crap on my mind to deal with people demanding their food hotter or quicker or better tasting.

Idiots.

I took about half of those thirty minutes to pick something to wear. But I don't know why. I normal just grab whatever the hell is clean. Why was today different?

Anyway, I finally decided on a black tank top and khakis.

Cause let's all face it, I'm so damn hip...

Hey, does anyone remember that song? Ya know, by Tower Of Power? The one the Drew Carey Show did a little dance to? Come on... Ya know, the one...

“ What is hip? Hipper then hip? Tell me, tell me. If you think you know. What is hip...?”

~

“Anyone here, yet?” I call as I climb down the stairs, two at a time.

Woohoo. Me being “hip” again...

“No!” I hear someone call from the kitchen. “But I did bring coffee!”

“Really?” I smile and make my way through the double doors. “How nice of you...”

“Well, of course. Anyway, I needed to do something to waste time. Who came up with the crappie idea to open at noon instead of eight? I had like...five hours to burn...”

“Yeah, like you had anything better to do...” I mumble and grab a double mocha out of Alex's hand.

“Hey, for your information, I did have something better to do...” Alex smiled and led the way into the dinning area.

I follow and play along. “Really?”

“Uh huh.” He answers simply and shows me to a table. “I was supposed to go to the record store... Ya know, try to pawn off some more of The Whits singles to Lexx.”

“How did it go last time?” I ask, already knowing the answer. Lexx is basically a twenty something control freak asshole who strings starving artists along... But Alex still tries.

“Not so well. Although, he did say that he would come see us play next week and decided then. Chris and Markus think he's full of shit but Nicky and I have hope.” He explained and wondered over to the alien themed jukebox. He pressed a couple of buttons before a Jimmy Eat World song started to play.

I smile at this.

“What?” He asks and comes to stand in front of me.

“You always have hope...” I answer, smiling a proud smile.

“Yeah well, not much is left.” He answered quietly and then offered his hand. “May I have this dance?” He asked with a small bow.

I giggle at this.

“Are you kidding? Jimmy Eat World at eleven-fifteen in the morning?”

“Yeah. Anyway, it's one of the good ones.” He laughs.

“What made you choose ‘In the Middle'?” I ask stupidly.

And then it starts. The chorus begins and good old Alex starts to serenade me...

“ It just takes some time,
Little girl, you're in the middle of the ride.
Everything, everything will be just fine,
Everything, everything will be all right, all right.”

By the end, I am hysterically laughing and Alex is twirling me ‘round and ‘round. And all I can think about is how this is the perfect Saturday morning. All I can think about is how I don't have to worry about anything cause I know Alex is here to worry for me. That's what's he does. He just makes me feel free. And for that, I am more grateful to him than anyone in this world or any other.

“See? I knew I could get you smiling!” He laughs as he spins me one last time.

“I think I'm going to be sick...” I laugh even harder and wrap my arms around my stomach, so I can brace myself against the table. “Eww...”

“Oh. What? You can't handle it?” Alex teases as he grabs his drink and gulps it down.

“Oh. I can handle it. Just not now...” I sigh and pull a chair out to sit in. I still have a good fifteen minutes before Maria will show up, so I make the decision and I prepare myself to tell him most everything.

“What's up, Liz?” He asks carefully and sits backwards in one of the wooden chairs across from me.

“A lot happened last night. A whole hell of a lot and I think it's best if I fill you in.” I sigh again and take a slow sip of my chocolaty drink.

“Alright. Fill me in, Parker...” And as soon as his finishes his sentence, I spill. I tell him everything...expect all the mushy me and Max things. Alex is like a brother to me and he normally really doesn't like to know who I have a crush on or who gave me my first kiss.

It's just a little too weird...

Anyway, once I was done, only two words came to mind. And they were Maria's. Bobble Head.

Alex was just nodding his head in a kind of bemused, stunned manor. I was beginning to worry a little. Normally, he takes this kind of thing really well but maybe this time, it was just a little too much...

“Alex?” I ask attentively. I don't want to push but I want to know he's okay with it. It's my whole worry and guilt complex working again.

“Yeah?” He answers and continues to stare out the front door.

“You okay?”

“We're they staying with Michael?” He asks suspiciously.

“Um, yeah...” I answer as I watch him get up from his seat and walk back over to the jukebox. He presses a couple more buttons and announces that we have company. I unwillingly twist in my seat and see Michael, Max, and Max's sister all standing in front of the Crashdown's doors. “Ah crap.” I mumble causing Alex to chuckle as he turned up the volume of the music.

I instantly hear Tenacious D and I know that I have to get up and open the door. So, I saunter over and casually unlock the lock. “You should have just left it open...” I yell over my shoulder at Alex. But he only shrugs in reply and walks a couple paces closer to me.

“Are you going to do the introductions?” He whispers and puts his arm around my shoulder.

“No.” I answer simply but stay put. Having Alex around me when Max is in close proximity, kinda make me feel less...weak and out of control.

And right now, that's a good thing...

I'm telling you, Alex is like my rock...

“Hey guys.” He calls cheerfully and waves a warm welcome. “I'm Alex Charles Whitman. And I'm at your service during your stay here in Roswell...” He nods just slightly and I can tell it made both Max and Isabel uncomfortable.

This makes me smile. And laugh. I really have to try to hold it in...

It's kinda sad...

“Yeah, Alex. Very funny.” Michael smiles sarcastically and moves past us rather quickly.

“Whoa. I'm just trying to be nice...” Alex laughs and puts up his hand, defensively.

I have both arms crossed over my chest and I'm still trying to suppress my laughter. It's not working, though. I let a couple strangles giggles out and Max looks towards me.

But I don't avoid his eyes this time. I look him straight on. And I smile. And he just looks puzzled. And I laugh more. And I don't think he gets it...

“Max. Isabel. This is Alex.” Michael calls from behind me and I turn just in time to see him take a drink from a small orange juice carton. “Alex. Meet Max and Isabel Evans.”

“Eww! Michael, what are you doing?” I squeal and before a weird silence falls over everyone. “Give me that!”

“What?!” He takes two steps back and another big drink. “I'm thirsty!”

“I don't care! That's for the restaurant!” I scream and go after him. “It's not for you! And you could have at least used a cup!”

“Fine. Alright.” Michael gives up and hands me the almost empty carton. “Geeze, you're as bad as Maria!”

“Very mature, Mikey G.” Tess laughs as she walks into the café. Kyle is following her. But he looks half asleep. “Isabel!” Tess shrieks and runs towards her. “How are you doing?”

“I'm okay.” I hear Isabel tell her in reply. “How's everything?”

“It's great... I'm so happy you guys finally made it!”

“Yeah. Happy...” Isabel mumbled before being dragged off to the side by Tess.

“Liz? You working today?” Kyle yawns and takes a seat on a stole by the counter.

Still holding the juice container from Michael, I explain how I took today off as a “mental health day”. This caught Max's attention immediately and I smiled brightly at him.

Maybe I shouldn't play these games right now. After seeing me yesterday, he probably thinks I'm an insane person already. Hmm...

But whatever... Today, I'm playing it hip and cool. Not pathetic and easily frightened like yesterday.

“Fine. Guerin, get in the kitchen and get me some coffee.” Kyle ordered as he laid his head against the cool counter top.

“I second that, only I want waffles.” Alex announced and took a seat next to Kyle. “Tess, Isabel, Max? You guys want anything?” He smirked towards Tess and Isabel and waited for a reply that never came.

“Dude, I'm not working today.” Michael declares as he collapses into a booth and motions for Max to follow suit.

“Huh uh.” I walk over and place the juice box in front of Michael. “You don't work tomorrow but you sure as hell work today!” I smile sweetly and wait for him to get up. It takes a while but when he finally does, I take his place in front of Max. “Is it okay if I sit here?” I whisper just loud enough for him to hear.

Hip and cool. That's me...

“Yeah.” he nods and I smile. And I remember just how wonderful it felt to be in his arms...

“Michael and Alex and Kyle! I need you guys to unload the Jetta. Mom decided that she didn't want to deal with dropping off all of the new alien crap, so she's paying me to!” Maria screamed as she lightly walked into the Crashdown, already carrying one box. “NOW!”

My thoughts of being held by Max were long crushed as I watched Alex helped Kyle get up and Michael open his mouth... “If she's paying you to do it yourself, then why do we have to do the work?”

“Cause you want to make a good impression on your future wife and mother-in-law... Right?” She answered sweetly as she brushed past him and placed an adoring kiss on his cheek.

“Whatever.” He answered in a mumble and started the semi-long walk outside.

Once Maria finished placing the box in the back, she came out with an order book and a smile on her face. “Welcome, to the Crashdown. I'll be your server today. What can I get you?”

“Waffles, strawberries, and whipped cream!” Tess called out. “Isabel, what do you want?”

“Can I get a fruit salad or something? Maybe some yogurt on the side...?” She asked meekly.

“Uh huh. And Max?” Maria moved to face him.

“Um, I don't know.” He answered uncomfortably.

“How bout a Heavenly Hash Special?”

“Sure. Whatever is fine.”

“Liz?”

“Um, can I get PB&J on toast?”

“Uh huh. I think Michael can manage that...” And with that she spun around and left for the kitchen.

Tess and Isabel continued talking in low whispers, so I decided to focus my attention on Max for a while.

“So...how is everything?” I ask lightly as I lean a little forward.

He swallows and answers, “Its okay.”

“That's good.” I smile but I realize that I need to do something about this new uncomfortableness that has fallen over us. “So, you sure you're okay?”

“Yeah.” He nods.

“Max, I know I don't really know you that well. Hell, aside from everything that happened between us last night, I don't know you at all. But I do know that something isn't right.”

He just takes a deep breathe. And I get kinda pissed.

“Do we need to run away again?” I tease. And believe me, I have no idea how or why. Cause I might be trying to play it hip and cool today but this just passed the border about thirty miles back. The person that is talking right now, it's not me. I mean, it is me but I don't know where all this...confidence is coming from. It's scary and I'm not sure that I really like it...

“I don't know.” He sighs and shoots a glance at Tess and Isabel. “There's just some stuff that I...we need to talk about...”

Ok, I'm lost now.

“You mean ‘we' as in us or ‘we' as in the aliens?” I ask in a weird tone.

“Both.” He answers simply. “Both...”

TBC...

Wow. I've got to hurry and write more... I've only written through part 16 today and I'm up to 11 here...
Oh and Cory, if you think the plot thickened there, wait till you read this piece of crap part...

With Nothing Left To Lose.
Part 11-

So, the day has gone by unbearably slow. After Max said what he said, I involuntarily got semi-pisssed off and decided that I might as well work today.

Cause what would it really hurt? Other then me...

Alex and Tess took Max and Isabel on a short little trip around Roswell that last a good three hours. They said it was a tour but I think Alex just wanted to see what was up with the “alien king”. And Tess and Isabel wanted to go for obvious reasons.

I guess they are a lot closer then I thought. Isabel seems only to be herself around Tess. Hmm...

Ya know, it was funny when I watched them leave the Crash. I felt this really horrible pang in my chest when I saw Tess and Max sitting next to each other in Alex's Rabbit. I don't know though. It was just this thing that happened... I guess I couldn't stop myself from thinking about his destiny. I mean, everyone knows that it's all crap and meaningless to them but it still hurt for some reason.

That and the fact that he didn't say goodbye before he left. Sure, he looked and smiled. But not a nice verbal “bye” or anything. Hell, I even got one of those Isabel. Which was weird, let me tell you. I think Max talked to her or something cause after breakfast I could tell she was trying her damnedest to be semi-pleasant with me and everyone else. But I'm still not...

Anyway, the Crash closed early tonight so that Max could tell us all what he's been wanted to tell us. Everyone is gathered around one booth, except for me.

See, I'm sitting or rather spinning on one of the many bar stools the Crash has to offer. I'm just spinning and spinning and I continued to spin and spin after Max dropped the huge alien bombshell that has the potential to screw everything up and make it all go away at the same time...

And you know what? As I spin ‘round and ‘round and he tells everyone all of the details he knows, I can feel him watching me. I feel his eyes watching me with a certain mix of uncertainly, worry, and understanding. It makes a warm chill go down my spine every time I think about it.

It's weird. But really soothing and comforting. I guess having the knowledge that he might not be here later but that he is here now, it kinda bring calm and ease to me.

Anyway, so this huge, big alien bombshell has just dropped. And of all people to be worried about, he's is worried about how I will take it. Isn't that sweet? Isn't that scary? It kinda scares me but whatever... I'm not worried. And I am so not freaked out.

You know why? You want to know why?

I've learned not to care. You know, about all of the alien crap. I don't know, I've just learned that freaking out and worrying and stressing out isn't going to get me anywhere. Getting upset over something of this caliber just isn't worth it anymore.

Ok, stop thinking I'm a horrible person. Cause I'm not. I'm just logical.

Think about it. If you just found out that your world would end in just under twenty-four hours, would you freak? Ok, yeah you would. But then you would realize that there was nothing you could do about it, so you'd sober up and deal with it. Ya know? You'd go spend time with family and friends and stuff. Right?

“When?” Michael's strained voice brings me out of my daze. As I spin passed him for like the thousandth time, I take stock in what his face looks like. And then I realize that if Max is worried about anyone, he should be worried about Michael. Poor guy, he looks like he was just given a death sentence...

I want to tell him that it really isn't that bad but I don't. I just continue to spin ‘round and ‘round.

“I don't know exactly.” Max answers with a deep breathe as he scrubs his face with the back of his hand. “All I know is that Kal is pretty worried. He doesn't know how long until they are actually able to do anything with it.”

“So, it works?” Tess asks semi-excitedly from the corner of the room. Out of all of the aliens, strangely, she is the one that seems most excited out the new development. Go Her!

“We don't know. And unless we find the base where it's being held, we can't really find out...” Max sighs again.

As I spin by him, I slow down a little. So much of me just wants to go over to him and comfort him, the way he is trying to comfort me. So much of me just wants to get off my stupid bar stool, walk up to him, kiss him, and tell him that it will be ok.

But I can't. Cause the other small part of me knows that it won't help. My comfort won't help him right now. Even if I refuse to get worried or stressed, this is a huge thing. And he needs to get through the first step by himself.

God, doesn't that sound stupid? Like I'm dropping off my first born at kindergarten and I'm too chicken to just get back into my car and drive away.

But that's what this connection has done to me... In less then twenty-four hours, I have become a hundred times more worried about him then me.

And I have to say, it's the most wonderful, most gratifying feeling ever. I've never really had many people to look after. It was mostly just me. I mean, after the whole robbery thing, I learned to look out for everyone but still. It's different. All I want to do is make his fears and worries just disappear.

But I can't. And that completely kills me inside...

“So, are we going to go find it?” Tess continues her questions in the same excited tone. But something happens to me as I hear her. I get this really pain sickening feeling in my heart and I start to push myself faster and faster. I make myself spin faster and faster for the simple reason that I don't want to hear the answer to her question. I don't want to my world to come crashing down around me and I don't want to not be able to do anything about it.

It's actually kinda funny... Give me dupes or skins or evil alien parasites and I've just fine. But give Max a way home...and I fall apart.

Go figure.

So, I wait for his answer. I know I can't escape it, so I wait for it. And it finally comes; I have to stop the spinning. I have to throw my hand out in front of me and catch the side of the counter top. I have to stop and focus on something stationary until the dizzy feeling subsides and I can actually begin to comprehend his answer and the hidden meaning behind it.

“I don't know...” He repeats simply.

I have to close my eyes to stop the potential tears because his answer does have a hidden meaning. And I'm the only one who seemed to hear it.

He says he doesn't know. But of course he does. How could he not?

The royal four have finally been given a way home in the shape of a ship. A space ship. The same space ship that brought them here. And now, they might know where it is, so they are going to have to go find it. And then, they are going to have to go home. And I, Liz Parker, will never see Michael or Tess Or Max again... Ever.

I breathe in a ragged breathe before feeling that warm chill on my spine. I know he is trying to comfort me and that brings me to tears. That simple act of him trying to protect me, brings every single firewall I have ever put up for anyone, down. And in a sense, my world IS crashing down around me. The world that I have built since forever ago. My world of sarcasm and cynicism and pessimism just falls to the floor as I let a couple small tears fall from my eyes.

The connection that formed between Max and I was something that wasn't supposed to happen. I know that thought is true and I know he knows it's true too. What has happened and what will happen between us was never supposed to take place. But something did make it happen and now I have to deal with the consciences.

Cause ya know what? From the first kiss...I was gone. After that one act, I fell in love with him. Utterly and completely in love. And now, I really do have to deal with the consciences cause I know that it wasn't supposed to happen and I know that I have to end it. Cause Max Evans' will never leave if he knew what I felt. And regrettably, he does know... And I have to fix it. I have to end it.

The third time he whispers “I don't know”, I feel another pang in my heart. I feel a part of me die. And then I feel him... And then I remember that I have to make it stop...

“Why don't you know?” Isabel asks her brother in a small voice. I can tell she's scared. But not as much as Michael. And not as much as Max.

He doesn't answer. He just stares at me. And for the first time since the bombshell was dropped, I turn to meet his gaze... In its simplest form, he looks sad. Like he knows he can't escape his world ending. He knows he's got a limited amount of time left and he is sad that he has to do what he has to do. He knows he has to leave and he doesn't want to. He would give anything not to go. But he knows it's his responsibility... He knows it's what he has to do...

“Max?” Isabel meekly whispers as she wraps her arms around herself. She looks like she is about to cry too.

And in that second, I know what I have to do. It all kinda becomes clear. Like, someone or something else knows exactly what is going on and they are going do all of the talking for me. All I have to just stand there and let it...

I know what is standing in the way... What's inside me knows what's standing in the way... And IT knows how to get rid of it. I just half to let it. And you know what? I do...

“Cause he's not the one the needs to make the decision...” I smile slightly and look over at her.

“What?” She asks with surprise in her voice because she didn't think I would say anything.

I hop off my little green and silver bar stool and I saunter over to the jukebox. I randomly press the number thirty-three and I'm very pleased when I hear an Adema song filtering through the hidden café speakers. I close my eyes and listen to the beginning few seconds and then answer Isabel's question. “Don't any of you get it?” I shake my head disbelievingly. “Max can't make the decision. Nor can any of you.” I smile at each alien in the room. “See, it doesn't have anything to do with you guys anymore. It's all us. All us humans...” I laugh a little and go back to sit on one of the stools.

I momentarily feel kinda dizzy but I brush it off and go back to listening to the song.

“What are you talking about, Liz?” Alex asked cautiously as his forehead frowned.

“Come on, Alex. You're not that stupid!” I turn towards him and smile. I feel like I'm being let go, inside. Like, I'm being dropped... “Look, there have always been two groups of the royal four. Right? Max and Isabel and Michael and Tess. But something went wrong... It's not just four anymore. It's fucking eight.” At the last remark all eyes were on me. And all were confused. “Tess.” I turn towards her and Kyle. “You don't want to go cause of Kyle and the Sheriff and the normal life you finally have. Isabel, you won't go because you can't even think of leaving your parents. That and the fact that you think Alex likes you and you might finally be given the chance to have a relationship with someone who knows the truth.” I twist around and face Michael, Maria, Max. “Michael, you won't leave Maria. You finally have family and roots here. You don't want to give that up. You can't. And Max, the supposed leader. You don't even want to be an alien hybrid, let alone an alien king on some planet you can't remember. But you would go cause it's your responsibility. Right? No. You wouldn't go cause of me! I could tell you that I love you and that I didn't want you going and you would stay!” I yell.

“Liz...” I feel his voice cut threw everything inside of me. But I know that I have to do this. He needs to be free to do what he needs to do.

I continue, ignoring what Max said. “So, Kyle, you're keeping Tess. Alex, you've got Isabel hanging on by a thread. Maria, Michael won't ever leave you. And Max, can't leave me. Not after what happened last night...” I explain. “So, everyone following me so far?” I laugh.

“Liz, you need to stop...” Maria weakly instructs me. I think she is crying but I can't stop. Something inside of me is making me do this now. It's out of my hands... I can't just stop it...

So, I tell her that. “No. I don't. If I don't start getting everyone to realize the truth, then everyone will be screwed. Listen, Kal had this idea... He wanted to get the royal four back together ages ago. But that didn't happen cause of the whole robbery thing here at the Crash. So, he let a little time pass by for everything to settle but now he wants to put them back together again. But he can't. He can't cause the royal four are all being held down by crappie little humans.” My head starts to pound as I scream the last part. “We are all fucking connected to each other! And it's keep them from doing what they need to do!”

“You don't know what you are saying. How would you know? How would you fucking know?!” Maria screams at me.

“Cause he's fucking in my head...” I whisper crossly. “And he's here. And the only fucking way we can save any of them, is if we let them go.”

“Liz?”

“Shut up, Kyle!” I snap. “He's inside me. I can feel it.” I yell and clamp my hands against the side of my head. “Do you understand? I know what he wants to do. I know he wants Vilandra. I know he wants Zan dead. And I know he doesn't care about Rath or the fucking Queen!”

I feel like I'm drowning inside myself. Like, I'm lost in a dream or something. All I can hear is the shrill sound of the rhythm to that song that seems to be playing over and over.

But I can't stop from screaming. I can't stop what ever is controlling me. Cause this isn't me.

I'm not saying these things. I don't feel these things.

“Max, what is she talking about?” Michael yells quickly as he stands and walks a couple paces towards me.

“It doesn't matter.” I stop and sob. “It doesn't matter anymore. He's here and he's going to make you go away. He wants it to end. The only hope is to get you guys off this fucking planet and home where you can do what you were destined to do.” I whisper and I slid to the floor. “You need to come home and save our people. We need you to save us. Khivar will kill you if you don't.” I start to sob. I start to feel the cry rack my body back and forth with angry and pain. “He doesn't care anymore. All he wants is the throne and he will do whatever it takes to get it. You have to save us...”

“Liz, what are you talking about? What are you saying?” Michael is kneeling in front of me and I feel Max wrap his arms around me. And all I want to do is get lost in the warmth that I now feel. I don't want to stay in the dream. I don't want to hear the loud song hammer in my head. I just want to get lost in Max's warmth. It's all I ever wanted...

TBC...

It gets crappier... But whatever.

With Nothing Left To Lose.
Part 12-

My mom would always call dreams the product of the recycle bin of your mind...

I always thought that that was very clever. After all, isn't that the perfect explanation?

~

After I woke up this morning, I felt like I had had one too many wine coolers or something. I was a little dizzy and I had this weird song stuck in my head... But other then that, I pretty much felt okay...

Or at least I was, until I found the seven other people sharing my room...

Michael and Maria were sharing a sleeping bag on the floor to my right. On the left, Kyle and Tess were also sharing a sleeping bag, except Kyle wasn't inside. Isabel was sleeping in my overstuffed green chair and Alex was right next to her on the floor. And Max... Well, Max... Well, he was sharing MY bed.

See, I woke up right next to him.

I kid you not.

I woke up next to Max Evans.

And it was the best thing ever...

I felt safe and warm and protected.

It was heaven. I swear.

And it only turned hell when Maria woke up...

“Liz? Are you up?” She whispered hoarsely while trying to untangle herself from Michael's grasp.

“I think so.” I answered dully as I watched Max sleep for a moment. He looked so peaceful, yet so worried and anxious. It was really heartbreaking.

“How do you feel? Are you okay?” She asked with a certain something in her voice.

“Yeah, I'm fine. I think I just need to get to the bathroom...” I yawned and rubbed some sleep out of my eyes. Unfortunately, Max's arms weren't wrapped around me, so I didn't have issues getting up. Damn bastard...

“Liz, wait!” I heard Maria struggle to get off the floor and follow me to my bathroom.

“What?” I asked as I stretched my arms over my head. “Why am I still in my clothes?”

“Cause we didn't think you liked to sleep naked.” Alex smiled slightly and came to stand behind Maria.

“Very funny, Whitman.” I mocked. “What the hell happened last night? I don't remember anything. It's weird.”

“Very funny, Parker.” Maria told me pointedly. “What? You don't remember any of it?”

“No.” I told her simply and walked into the small restroom. I automatically grabbed my blue toothbrush and Crest toothpaste.

“Seriously?” Alex asked as he and Maria followed me.

“Uh huh...” I grumbled as I started the brushing process. “What? Did I miss something?” I asked with a laugh and then washed my mouth. “Wait. Let me guess... Kyle finally told Tess how he felt and now they are all happy together? Or did Tess shoot him down...?” I thought out loud with a smile on my face.

“No. Kyle didn't really say anything. But you kind did...” Alex explained in a grim tone.

“What?” I laughed. “That's impossible. I so wouldn't do that...”

“Yeah, that's what we thought...” Maria sighed and started to walk out of the small room.

“What is that supposed to mean?” I followed suit and left the bathroom.

“You don't remember anything about last night?” She asked as she picked up one of my old sweaters and put it one over her T-shirt. ”Anything at all?”

“Um, yeah. I do. I remember some. Especially this song that keeps playing over and over in my head... It has this really annoying chorus...” I thought for a moment and started to hum the tune.

“Anything else?” Alex's voice became hushed and annoyed sounding after he watched Kyle and Tess stir a little.

“Um... I remember the bombshell that was dropped. Ya know the thing about the ship?” I asked as I started to make my way out of my bedroom. For some reason, I felt like I had a whole lot of energy and I just wanted to burn it off. I also felt like most of last night was sucked out of my brain. It was all kind of not there... “That happened, right?” I asked over my shoulder as I made my way into the kitchen.

“Yes. It happened. And so did a whole lot of other stuff!” Maria whispered and made weird arm gestures.

I ignored them though and went to get a bottle of water from the refrigerator. “You guys want one?” I ask causally.

“Liz, would you just stop it!” Maria yelled quietly. “This is really serious. Like, seriously serious! You can't just go and drink water and make it go away!”

“Geez, Ria...” I frowned and made my way over to the small breakfast table in the corner. “Sorry...”

“Listen, Liz. Just tell us all you remember...” Alex came to sit next to me. “It's important...” He gave me a reassuring smile and ushered me to tell my story.

And it was at the point, where I realized that something WAS seriously wrong...

“Um, I remember thinking about how I loved Max.” I blurted out without even thinking. “I mean...”

“Whoa. Whoa. Whoa.” Kyle walked into the room with his hands in front of him. “What?!”

“I mean... I remember thinking about how the ship...” I tried with all my might to do damage control but it wasn't working. “...would work. And who would drive it.”

It's just too fucking early in the morning for this...

Maria took one look at me and then at Kyle before shooting him down. “Kyle, just shut up and sit down. We need to hear this.” Maria instructed carefully. She then grabbed my hand and gave it a encouraging squeeze.

“Ok. I'm not going to sugar-coat this.” I shook my head. “I WAS thinking about how I might be in love with Max. It's sad, I know. But something happened between us and it really...”

“Liz, as much as I would love to hear all about that stuff, we really need to fast forward a little here. Ok?” Maria interrupted and nodded forcefully.

“Are you kidding me?” I asked disbelieving. “Ria, this is me...” I placed a hand over my chest before continuing. “...talking about how I might love someone... And you don't want to hear the details right now?” I quickly look at the three faces of my friends. “God, what the hell happened last night that was so fucking important that YOU don't want to hear about my potential love for Max Evans?!”

“Basically, you told us how we were all connected...”

Now, seriously. When I said what I said, I meant it only for Maria, Alex, and Kyle's ears. No one else's. So, when Max walked into the room and explained just what I did the other night... Well, it basically made me turn cold. I just froze. I couldn't do anything. I just froze, starring at him with my mouth hanging half open... It's all I could do.

And it's really all I'm still doing...

Here I am sitting in my parents kitchen being told exactly what I did and said last night.

Everyone is up.

Everyone is standing around me.

And everyone is adding their two cents worth.

And all I can do is sit completely still and replay that fucking song in my head...

“Anyway, so we think you were possessed or something...” Tess explains in a hasty voice. “But we can't figure out the whys or hows...”

“Uh huh.” I mutter lamely, just like I've been doing after hearing everyone's comment. It's only fair to acknowledge them. Right?

“Can you think of any thing else?” Michael asks as he scratches his eyebrow for the freaking fifth time in the past ten minutes.

“Do you have any questions or anything?” Alex asks quickly and almost excitedly.

I guess everyone is really wound up about this. But me? Well, I'm just really embarrassed. And humiliated. And mortified.

But other then that, I don't see the big deal...

Whatever happened, happened. I can't change it. And it seems to be over, so whatever... Right?

“Ya know, there is something I want to ask.” I quickly remove my hands that were covering my red face and I turn towards Alex, who is still sitting next to me. “The song... What was it?”

“Liz...” He just looks at me like it isn't an important question.

But it is! It really it!

“Look, I understand that I did something really, really stupid last night. And that I said some things that were just...really, very bad. But that fucking song has been playing over and over and over in my head and I can't get it out! And I'm thinking that the only way I CAN get it out, is by listening to it! Ok? So, please just tell me!” I scream in a very dramatic voice. “Please?”

“It was something like The Way You Like...” Alex hangs his head and tells me solemnly.

“Are you kidding?” I ask in astonishment. “Are you serious? Adema? My stupid little possessed self put on Adema?”

He nods and I stand. “Ya know what? If I was possessed by some idiot alien on Antar, I swear to God, that when I find them, I WILL kick their little ass from there to here and back!” I scream through clenched teeth as I storm out. “The little piece of crap...”

I was half down the hall when I heard his voice. And predictably, it made me stop. But I wish it didn't.

Somehow, I know I said exactly what I felt towards him last night. And that scares me. I'm really not ready to love someone. I've really only had to take care of myself and now...it's like I'm more worried about him than me. And it's really a wonderful feeling but it's also really scary...

I don't know if I can handle it right now.

“Can we talk for a minute?”

“Ya know, I don't think there is a lot to say...” I mumble and turn around to face him. “Max, I want you to know that I am really sorry about last night and that I had no idea what was going on...” I try to tell him sincerely. “It just wasn't...”

“You?” He finishes for me.

“Yeah. Me.” I send him a half smile, as I watch him walk a step closer.

“Liz, I know that it might not have been you but you still said a lot of true things...”

“I doubt that.” I awkwardly laugh. Cause I really have no idea where he is going with this...

“Liz, what you said...about me...about us... It was true...”

“What part? I'm sure I included a whole lot of you and us...” I laugh weirdly again. Cause now I think know where he is going and I don't really like it...

“Something serious did happen between us and I think we need to deal with it...”

“Oh my god...” I whisper and shake my head. Cause just as his words left his mouth, I remembered some of mine from last night... “And Max, the supposed leader. You don't even want to be an alien hybrid, let alone an alien king on some planet you can't remember. But you would go cause it's your responsibility. Right? No. You wouldn't go cause of me! I could tell you that I love you and that I didn't want you going and you would stay!”

“What?” He asks with a look of concern on his face.

“I'm so sorry...”I mutter and try to meet his gaze but I can't bring myself to do it. “I can't believe I said that...”

“Said what? Do you remember?” He narrows his dark amber eyes and comes next to me. He want to give me support and comfort but he feels the awkwardness of the situation.

“No. Just a flash or something...”I mutter as I start to back up. “I think I need to go. I think I need air or something...” I quickly push past him and make my way to the back door.

“Liz, please?” He's following me. And I want him too. I want to run away with him again. I want to be able to tell him everything I feel but have it really come from me and not something inside me...

But when I reach the door, I know what I have to do. I carefully open it and step outside. I don't look back and I don't forward. I just keep my eyes on the ground as I make my way down the sidewalk. I can feel his eyes burning into me but I still don't turn around. Instead, I start to run. I run away as fast as I can...

TBC...

Oh. My. God. First let me just say, damn was I behind or what? It took me like an hour and half to read what 6 parts? How the heck did I get that far behind? I am so sorry Destiny. I really loved the first night together when they were sitting outside the icecream shop. And their first kiss. Me really liked that part. I also liked the part with her and Alex dancing. I thought that was so cute. There were alot of funny parts and lines, but my mind is already slipping. I so need to keep up. As far as the crappy parts go~ not so but I love the line that your going to jump in the computer and knock her out. You guys are too funny. Anyway, Destiny, those were awesome parts and can't wait to read more.