Title: Enduring Promises

By: unBEHRablycute

Disclaimer:  Don’t own them, they belong to the WB, Jason Katims, Melinda Metz, et al.  Lyrics belong to Paul Simon.  No infringement intended.

Summary:  Final part of a trilogy, following Turning Points and Sacrifices.

Category:  Max/Liz, et al.

Rating:  R

Author’s note: This entire trilogy fanfic was for the most part completed in December 1999. Therefore, references to glowing handprints were purely out of the author’s mind, with no prior knowledge of what occurred in Sexual Healing.

Dedication:  To Rosboy and Rosgirl, who without your inspirational childhood’s, I would not have been able to make Liz and Max’s child so real and adorable.

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Part 1:

Liz’s room.

Journal entry, Date June 2008

It’s been a long time… since I wrote in my journal…since I saw him.  Max Evans, my heart mate, has been gone almost four years.   I experience intensely sad moments and I find myself slipping from sanity, breaking away from what’s important because of the loss of Max.  The deprivation overwhelms and scares me.   I used to dread the quiet times - each day when I woke up and when I went to sleep at night, especially at night.   I still struggle with the longing and the pain, missing Max desperately, holding my breath every time I see a beautiful star shooting across the night sky, wondering.  Is it you, Max? 

Over time, I’ve come to realize that there are important things here on this earth that I need to attend to, instead of spending all of my time staring at the sky, watching and waiting.   I have pieces of him with me – constant reminders that I will always have Max’s heart, which force me to maintain some semblance of sanity.  Yes, I still have his silver handprint on my chest, covering and protecting Max’s heart.  Sometimes, I notice a shimmering, iridescent glow on the handprint.  The analytic side of me wonders if those are the times Max is not safe and I worry…about him.  The romantic in me wants to believe that he must be thinking of me, needing me and wanting me as I want him.  I hope it’s the latter. More than anything, I want him to be safe…and happy.   By virtue of the fact that the handprint still exists gives me the comfort in knowing our love never faded. 

However, it’s the other part of Max, the more tangible piece – the one that fills my life with peace and joy…Max’s son…he keeps me sane.  At three years old, Matthew Alexander Parker is the most beautiful and the brightest little boy. 

When I think about the sacrifices all of us have made over the years, I trust that we made the right decisions together.  With the help and support of our families - the Parkers’, the Evans’, the Delucas’ and the Whitmans’ – we’ve faced each challenge as they came to us.  We persevered. 

I sense my mom is still not happy with the choices I made, but she keeps it to herself these days.  I shudder when I recall her initial reaction to hearing that I was pregnant.  She suggested I consider the alternatives because I was young, had my whole life ahead of me and Max was gone.  I walked out the door and we didn’t speak for a month afterward.  At the time, she didn’t know the extent of Max’s absence.  If she did, she may have been more opinionated and had me committed.  But I told her the whole truth when Matthew was three months old and I was secure in knowing that he was developing normally.  After all this time, I still sense her displeasure.  I can live with it, because I love and believe in the choices I made for myself.  The decisions were right, for me, for Matthew. When she found out the truth, my mom set aside her feelings for Max and my decisions and focused on being a quality grandmother to Matthew.  Thank God for small favors.  I still sense she thinks that someday Alex and I will own up to some unknown, underlying feelings.  Ha.

Alex and I did get married – in name only – well, actually not even, since I refused to take on the Whitman name, which was silly and irrelevant anyway.  Alex and I live in the same home, separate rooms while we continue our purely platonic relationship.  Getting married and living together was more important to Alex than me.   He was convinced that Max would never forgive him if he wasn’t available to protect me at all hours of the day or night.  The marriage keeps the Roswell gossips from questioning us, Roswell still being the conservative town that it is.

Maria has been with us throughout everything all these years.  She lives across the street by herself, patiently waiting.  She was great throughout my whole pregnancy.  She experimented with all the morning sickness remedies – until we created one that worked for me – vanilla wafers and bananas with a dab of Tabasco sauce.  She was there throughout the labor and delivery, too – thank God – with my mother and Mrs. Evans.  Maria had to make jokes while Alex sat by my side, holding my hand the entire time.   I think he was more nervous than anyone.  He had this mantra going, “gotta protect ‘em for Max.”  Anyway, the whole experience propelled Maria into her chosen career – labor and delivery nurse extraordinaire.  She’s the best.

Alex got through undergraduate school with a breeze.  He studied psychology and is looking to attend graduate school now.  He says he’s limited because he refuses to move away from Roswell – I feel bad about that.  He’s hoping to take some correspondence courses for a while.

Me, well, I still take a few classes here and there.  At the rate I’m going, I may be a micro-biologist by the time I’m 50.  But it doesn’t really matter at this point – it’s not my priority.  Matthew is the center of my life right now – he’s all that matters.  Of course, he’s the center of the universe for both sets of grandparents – Parkers and Evans – as well as his honorary Aunt Maria and Uncle Alex.

Matthew brings me such joy on a daily basis.  It’s bittersweet actually – since he’s the mirror image of Max.  It’s his eyes, they are soulful, not of this Earth…and his demeanor – so gentle and caring – just like his father’s. 

Sometimes, I think we should have been more open about discussing Max, Isabel and Michael.  We basically told everyone in Roswell who asked that they left to find their families of origin.  The Valenti’s watched us all closely, but we kept our concerns to ourselves.  We even kept the pictures hidden safely away for some time in the future.  I also didn’t want Matthew to think the man who means everything to me abandoned him in any way.   At the time, it just seemed the safest alternative.  But was I wrong?  Max, I wish you were here to help me with the difficult parenting issues.

I worry more and more about Matthew’s future, wondering if I will be able to guide him as he grows, until Max comes back to help. What worries me the most is trying to help him master and understand his powers, when I don’t understand them myself.   Since he was two years old, Matthew began to make connections with me.  Sometimes I think it is his way to connect with Max.  He doesn’t ask about his father, but I always feel it – he seems comforted when he does the connections.  I feel his desire and love for his father.  So Matthew does what he does; feels Max, through me.  Regardless, I hope I do right by Matthew. 

Max, our son is well loved and protected. He’s the legacy of greatness that you left with me.  Thank you.

Lately, I feel a change coming.  I don’t know but I have begun to feel a change coming, not really physical, more emotional, but even beyond that.  I can’t put this into words.  I’m not sure why, but something is there.  And oddly enough, I don’t fear it.  It’s as if the future is calling Matthew and me…and it feels right.

Wow, as I re-read this entry, I realize I’m getting more verbose as I get older.  Oh well, it’s not as though I write in here very often.  I spend more time chronicling Matthew’s incredible life in his baby/childhood book.  It’s all for Max, though, so that he can share in the missed moments when he returns to read them – when he returns to us.  Max, when will that be?  I miss you so…

And the tears return, no warning, just the pain of the lost years scalding her cheeks, yearning for him, needing the feel of him with her, entering her, within….it’s almost as if…..If only he was here. 

Part 2: 

Out on the desert, 3:00 am, the same night as Liz’s journal entry. 

The sky is filled with stars, like a velvet black background twinkling with tiny diamonds.  Suddenly, across the night sky a dark, purple shape streaks through the night coming to rest, in a place it remembers well.  If any humans are awake to notice, they see a star, shooting across the night sky.

And in a house, on the edge of Roswell, a little boy and his mother awake at the same time.  Liz takes a deep, gasping breath wondering what could have awakened her.  For a moment, Liz can not draw a normal breath.  Her sudden panic subsides as she begins to breath, shallow, but breathing nonetheless.  As she turns her head to look at the clock, Matthew calls to her.  “Mommy?” 

Liz hears the concern in his voice so she jumps out of bed to go check on him.  As she enters the room that is right next to hers, her breath catches in her throat because Matthew is not in his bed.

“Mommy?”  Liz hears him again and sighs as she sees his small form standing at the French doors leading out to their shared balcony. 

Liz approaches Matthew and kneels down on the floor next to him as she watches him look up into the night sky.  “What is it, sweet love?”

Matthew continues to stare out the window for a moment, then looks at his mother with his soulful eyes.  In a whisper, so much like his father, he is in awe.  “Mommy, I saw St. Judy’s Comet.”

Liz lovingly hugs her son, inwardly smiles, as she remembers Matthew’s favorite song that he listens to on a nightly basis.  She whispers back to him.  “Are you sure that it wasn’t flashing fireflies?”

 Matthew looks at his mother ever so seriously before he responds.  “No, I saw the spray of diamonds.  It was St. Judy’s Comet.”  He then looks to the sky again, touches the glass pane on the door and shyly questions.  “Can I sleep with you?”

Liz picks up her son, hugs him and carries him back to her bed.  As they snuggle together, Liz holds him gently…until they fall into a peaceful slumber.

Out of the darkness, four people exit a black, glass-like door.  Three adults; two men and one woman walk on to the desert floor.  And the woman, she holds what appears to be a child who is resting her head on her shoulder.  The men set up the tents before all retire – resting to prepare for the coming day. The adults, subdued and quiet, think about their return, insecure about how and who will receive them.  But each knowing with a certainty, that no matter what they find, this is where they belong. Home.

Part 3:

7:00 am out on the desert.

“Mommy, mommy can I come, too?”  The blonde-haired cherub asks.

Isabel gently holds her daughter. “No sweetie. Right now Uncle Max and I need to go greet everyone. They will be surprised to see us.  You will be our big, special surprise later.”

With a frown, the cherub seems reluctant to agree and gives a slight scowl.  “Alright.”

Max smiles then tweeks his niece on the nose. “Don’t worry, Mommy will be back soon. Patience, little one.”  She giggles at his touch.

Isabel approaches Michael with a look of warning. “Watch her closely and don’t let your impulsive tendencies collide with her precocious tendencies and get into mischief.”

“No offense taken, Isabel.”   Michael sighs. “We’ll just settle down to one of our favorite activities, drawing.  Hurry up though.  I’m anxious to get back to Roswell.”

Max laughs. “Who would have thought we’d ever hear Michael say those words?” 

Michael smiles sheepishly in response.

As Max and Isabel walk in to town, Max takes his sister’s arm. “Is, do you think they’re still here waiting for us?  I mean, what if they have all moved on with life?  It’s been four Earth years.  I don’t know if I can bear coming back here – to my true home, coming home to my heart’s desire…Liz…if she’s no longer here waiting.”

Isabel sighs, hearing his greatest fears articulated for the first time.  Words that represent Max’s sadness, which has been blazoned across his face for four long Earth years.  Isabel sighs again. “Max, take a deep breath and relax.  I don’t know anymore than you do about what we’re going to find here in Roswell.  But we all agreed this is home.  We’ve been through so much together.  We’ll face Roswell again, together.  Besides….”

Max looks at her with a question on his brow, waiting for her to go on.

Isabel smiles then playfully pulls down the collar of his shirt. “Yeah, I thought I saw that handprint of Liz’s glowing again.”

Max blushes as he pushes away Isabel’s hand. 

“Sacred ground, sorry Max.” Isabel says with a smile.

Silently, Max is lost in memories as they walk.  He thinks back to over three Earth years ago, when he felt the pain across his heart – Liz’s heart - and when he looked at his chest, he watched in fascination as the handprint glowed iridescent, shimmering like he remembered Liz’s eyes did in the moonlight, under the stars….in the sunlight, even under the fluorescent school lights.  He always lost himself in her eyes and he reveled in the feelings they evoked.

But after he left, and felt that intense pain, the remorse devastated him.  When her handprint glowed was one of the most painful times in his life, aside from when he left her.  He sensed that Liz needed him, but they wouldn’t let him go, not then.  It was the first time in his life that he felt so completely out of control, unable to be where he sensed he was needed most.  Depression, helplessness and loneliness engulfed him completely back then.  It lingered during his absence.

Max shivers, mentally trying to block out the painful memories.  Thinking of the comfort of Liz, he ponders why, on occasion, her handprint still shimmers, just not as intensely as it did three years ago. He never stopped loving her.

The plan was simple, they would go back first to see their parents.  Yes, the only parents they ever knew – the Evans’ - back to their unconditional love.  Both Isabel and Max feet it as they approach the kitchen door at 7:45 am.  Perfect timing, their mother is at the counter, making coffee.  Isabel and Max exchange a glance and smile – some things haven’t changed – a good sign.

Without a sound, Max opens the door and they silently enter looking at her for a moment. “Hi, Mom.” They whisper together, unable to get beyond the catch in their throats.

Mrs. Evans slowly turns, huge tears running down her cheeks.  They just look at each other for a moment.

“Diane, have you seen my…,”  Mr. Evans voice comes through the door and he enters then stops dead in his tracks, “…children?  Max, Isabel?”

Suddenly, through the tears, they grasp each other in hugs, so fierce as though to never let go again.  Max and Isabel, making eye contact, know without a doubt – they are home.

Mr. Evans is the first to speak. “If I did not have a deposition today, I would not leave this house.  Promise me you’ll be here when I return this evening?”

Max and Isabel laugh.  Mrs. Evans has yet to find her voice as she silently cries. 

Max comments. “Well, I don’t want to guarantee that we’ll be right here this evening, it depends on other Roswell residents we hope to see.  However, we have no intention of leaving again.”

As their mother gasps, Isabel hugs her. “Yes, Mom, we’re home for good.”

“Thank God.” Mrs. Evans finally finds her voice.

Isabel and Max know that all have a lot of questions, but they are content to just be back where they know they belong.  Unfortunately, their father has to leave for work. Soon enough, they will all catch up with each other – one Earth moment, one Earth person at a time.

Max, Isabel and their mother sit down to talk, when the phone rings.

Mrs. Evan picks up the phone. “Hello?”

“Good morning, Mrs. Evans.”

“Good morning to you.  And a wonderful day it is.” Mrs. Evans cheerfully greets Liz on the other end of the phone.  To herself she thinks, ‘the first person I thought of when I turned from the counter this morning.  Do I tell her now, or do I let Max do it?  Of course, Max – always Max.’

“Mrs. Evans, are you there?  Is everything alright?”  Liz inquires.

“I’m sorry dear, what can I do for you this morning?” Mrs. Evans asks.

“I’m just calling to remind you that I need to be at class at 8:30 am.  Are you still able to come pick up Matthew early?  Since it’s my final, I should only be gone an hour, not three.  There is no lab.” Liz gently reminds her.

Mrs. Evans focuses on what Liz is saying. “Sure, I’m on my way right now.  See you soon.”

“Great, and Mrs. Evans…thank you.” Liz comments before she hangs up.

“Mom, is everything okay?” Max questions.

She turns to her children and smiles. “Yes, everything is wonderful. I have to go, just for a few minutes.  Please DO NOT go anywhere.  I’ll be right back – 10 minutes, okay?”  She hugs them both before she walks out the door.

“Sure mom, no problem.” Isabel glances at Max.  When their mom left, Isabel turns to Max.  “What do you think that was all about?”

“What do you mean, Is?” Max asks.

“Well, she was rather distracted during that phone call.  I hope that nothing was wrong.”  Isabel says in a concerned tone.

“Isabel, I’m sure it’s fine.  She said she’d be back in a few minutes.  I’m sure we are the reason she was distracted.” Max laughs.

“Hey, why don’t we take a look around the house until she gets back?  Let’s see if she’s changed our rooms any.” Isabel smiles in response.

As they run up the stairs, Isabel is the first to reach her room.  Laughing she throws open her door. “It hasn’t changed in four years.” She calls to Max who is standing hesitantly at his door.  “Max, what’s wrong?”

“It’s…nothing, Is.  Go on in and relax for a few minutes.” Max says as he turns back to his door.  Slowly he opens the door and is flooded with memories of Liz – everything that happened the last time they were together came into his vision.  He can’t help but be drawn into the room, as if a force is pulling him. He feels her presence, still strong, and something more, but it’s just out of his reach. 

“So Max,” Isabel’s laughing voice is heard coming from her room. “Has anything changed?”

“No, Is,” Max sighs. “It’s just…listen, do you mind if I spend a few minutes alone until mom returns?”

Sensing her brother is thinking about the last time he was in his room, she silently nods.  “Max, I’m feeling a little tired anyway.  Will you let mom know I am taking a nap?  I’ll take a shower afterward.  Wake me up in an hour if I don’t do so on my own.  Remember, we told Michael at least one of us would be back in three hours?”

“Sure, Is, no problem,” Max says.  With that, he closes his door and sits on his bed…remembering.  ‘Liz, I hope you’re still guarding my heart – loving me as I still love you.’  From his back pocket, he pulls out the billfold that she gave him all those years ago.  As he opens it up and looks at her smiling faces – Liz the third grader, Liz the senior  – he can’t help but feel the warmth.  He gently touches the braided locks of her hair, still soft after all these years.  From behind her senior picture, he pulls out the piece of paper – the written note she gave to him, the last time they held each other.  The paper is faded, worn from the infinite number of times he looked at the words, in her hand.  Reading them again, praying a silent prayer to God that she still meant them…after all these years…..

O shooting star

That fell into my eyes and through my body - :

Not to forget you. To endure.       – Rilke

‘She must still mean them.  I feel her, I need her, I miss her so.’

The moment is broken as he hears his mother’s car pull up.  His mother will know.  He has to ask her now…he can’t wait any longer.

Max runs out of his room and down the stairs toward the kitchen.  As he hears his mother talking in a quiet voice, he opens the door.  Before he knows it, a small body plows into his legs. “Whoa, slow down.” Max says as he lifts the little boy up into his arms.  Max stops, thinks, ‘a beautiful child…’

And before he knows what hits him, the little boy touches Max’s cheeks, they look into each other’s eyes and a connection begins……

*Flash*  Max sees Liz, beautiful, one hand on her heart – his heart, covered with one of his old button-down flannel shirts.   He sees her smile as she reaches down to touch her stomach – she’s very heavy with child…incredibly beautiful and breath-taking.  Max feels what she feels - the child’s strong, healthy kick.  The love within her is felt.

*Flash*  Liz in her bed preparing to give birth.  He sees Mrs. Parker and his mother by Liz’s legs.  Maria’s hand is on Liz’s stomach and then there’s Alex, tightly holding Liz’s hand.  He feels the concern and apprehension in the room.  The love is there, too, as Alex touches Liz’s hair.  She weakly smiles at Alex as the contraction ends.

*Flash*  This beautiful child is born, coming in to the world where he is welcomed, loved.  Max feels Liz’s pain, her relief, her intense love as Mrs. Parker hands her the baby.  And then he feels her sadness and longing.

*Flash*  He sees Liz nursing her son, providing the nourishment for his sustenance.  The infant’s tiny hand rests on his silver handprint.  Max feels the intense bond between mother and child.

*Flash*  This little boy is holding his beautiful mother’s hand as they laugh together, a normal, carefree moment between a mother and her little boy.  Max feels the happiness, the joy between them.

With that, the connection ends and the little boy shyly smiles at Max. “Hi.”

Overwhelmed by the emotions he just felt, Max weakly smiles and softly responds. “Hi.”

Mrs. Evans looks at the two of them and takes a deep breath. “Max, .I’d like you to meet Matthew.”

“Hi, Matthew.  How do you do?” Max asks with a gentle smile.

“I’m special,” states Matthew.

“You are?” Max is pleasantly surprised at the confidence Matthew exudes.

“Yes I am.  You know that my mommy is special so…. so am I.” Matthew states emphatically.

Max smiles. “Yes, your mommy is very special and that would make you special, too.”

Matthew leans his face into Max’s – touching nose to nose, he whispers. “That’s what Grandma always says.”  Matthew turns his head to Mrs. Evans. “Grandma, may I please go play with the toys?”

“Of course you can sweetheart.” Mrs. Evans says with a smile.

“Will you come with me?” Matthew pleads to Max.

Max holds his breath, unable to think beyond, ‘this is Liz’s son, he looks exactly like her.’  When Matthew touches his cheek, Max looks into his eyes. “Sure, just let me talk to….Grandma… for a minute.  I’ll be right there.”

 Matthew gives Max a huge hug and a smile, so reminiscent of Liz’s. “Okay, don’t be long.”

Max’s heart melts at that smile.  After Max reluctantly places Matthew on the floor he turns to his mother who is facing away from them.  He feels a loss, but shrugs it off for a moment, too confused to ponder the significance of it right now.

“Hurry up.”  Matthew is heard as he runs out the door.

“Mom?” Max hesitantly queries.

Mrs. Evans is busy cleaning the coffee cups in the sink, facing away from Max. “What?”

“Mom, what’s going on?  That’s Liz’s son.  Don’t tell me otherwise - he looks just like her.  Besides, I had a connection with him.  I saw her with him – when she was pregnant and giving birth and afterwards.  I felt her intense love for him.  I felt her pain, too.  I also felt a great deal of sadness and longing.  Why is he here and why does he call you Grandma?  In the connection I saw it, felt it…Liz …she’s, she’s married to Alex.  Mom, what’s happened?” Max demands.   His voice is full of hurt and anxiety.

Before she turns around, she wipes the tears from her eyes and clears her throat and yes, even smiles at where Max’s thinking is at this point.  “Max, you have been gone a long time.  Be patient.  All will be answered for you.  But you need to talk with Liz.”  At his saddened expression, she continues. “Max, talk to Liz.  She has a final this morning and I am watching Matthew for her.  She should be here in an hour.  Go, sit with him, and play with him.  Get to know him  - he’s a very special boy.”

Max just stands there, the uncertainty and insecurity is written all over his face.  Mrs. Evans wants to hug him and say something to reassure him, but knows it needs to be between Liz and Max – after all these years, they deserve to be together, share their joys and sorrows.  “Max, please.  Go relax for a while.  I’ll be down here if you need me.”

“Okay, Mom.  I trust you.”  Max says then comments in a whisper, more to himself.  “Wow, he really is beautiful…like her.” 

When Max leaves, Mrs. Evans can’t help but burst into tears.  This is going to be the most exciting day of Max and Liz’s lives – a new beginning together - finally.

Part 4

Max’s room.

Max stands at the door, watching Matthew play with the toys in the bottom drawer of the dresser.  Matthew still has his back to the door.  “So are you going to stand there, or are you going to come play with me?   I promise I won’t bite.  Biting is not nice.  Mommy says so.”

Max grins and enters the room. “You have a very smart mommy.”

“Yes, I do.  Look, these are my favorites.” Matthew says in an excited voice.

Max, uncertain if he knows how to interact with this child, tentatively joins him on the floor. ‘My God, it’s like the first time I noticed Liz.  I have no idea what to say to him.’  Then Max finds himself smiling.  For Matthew’s ‘favorites’ were always his favorites – the toy house his mother gave him and a wooden spaceship that his father carved for him.

They play with the toy house, spaceship and various other figures.  Within minutes Max is tossing Matthew up in the air.  Matthew’s giggles make Max laugh, too.  Something he never felt comfortable doing – the carefree life of a normal child.  His heart fills with indescribable warmth for Liz’s son.

Downstairs, Mrs. Evans is finishing up cleaning the kitchen when Liz walks in, her face is flushed. 

“So how did the exam go, Liz?” Mrs. Evans asks.

“What? Oh yeah, the exam – fine, fine.” Liz says.

Mrs. Evans notices a distant look on Liz’s face.  “What’s wrong?  You seem distracted.”

“Mrs. Evans, is everything okay with Matthew? I’ve had a strange feeling all morning…actually since last night.  It’s as if something is not right, but I can’t put my finger on it.” Liz ponders.  “Where is Matthew?”

“Liz, I think you need to know…,” Mrs. Evans begins.

“What?” Liz starts to panic and runs out of the room calling to her son. “Matthew, where are you? Mommy is here.”

Upstairs Max and Matthew hear her voice calling, but Max hears the panic in her voice.  It confuses and concerns him.  He is filled with overwhelming doubts, the memories from the connection with Matthew return to plague him.

“Mommy’s here!” Matthew says excitedly, jumps up and pulls on Max’s hand. “Let’s go see her.”

“Matthew, I enjoyed playing with you, but let me clean up a bit.” Max says haltingly, uncertain about seeing Liz, not knowing how she may welcome him. “Why don’t you go down, I’ll be there in a minute.”

Matthew’s lower lip quivers and his eyes well up.  “No, no.  Please come with me.  Mommy says I can usually have my way if I say please.  Please?!”

Feeling remorse that he upset Liz’s son, Max reassures him. “I’m sorry, don’t be upset.  Of course I’ll come with you.”

Matthew smiles at Max.  As they walk out the door, Matthew grabs Max’s hand.  Max smiles and gently squeezes.  At the top of the stairs, Matthew let’s go and runs down the stairs to find his mother in the living room.

“Mommy!” Matthew screams excitedly.

While he runs into her arms, Liz hugs him tightly. “Hi sweet love.  How are you?”

Matthew looks at his mother. “Fine, Mommy…Eskimo?”

Liz responds by giving him an ‘Eskimo’ kiss.

Matthew asks. “Butterfly?”

Liz responds with a ‘Butterfly’ kiss. “I missed you honey.”

“I missed you, too, Mommy.”  Matthew’s face lights up as he briefly looks behind her to the stairwell.  “And I have a surprise for you…something that will make you happy.”

Liz laughs. “You always make me happy.”

“Mommy.” whines Matthew.

“Okay, what is the surprise that is going to make me happy?” Liz inquires with a smile while she is still holding her son in her arms.

Matthew simply states, “He’s here.”

The smile instantly fades from her face and Liz looks at her son more intently. “Matthew, who is here?”

Matthew touches his mother’s cheeks and *Flash* Liz gets a vision of Max holding up Matthew and smiling at him warmly.

Liz then, ever so slowly turns and sees Max standing on the bottom stair with tears welling in his eyes.  Complete silence overwhelms the room.

Mrs. Evans comes out of the kitchen and quietly walks over to Liz and Matthew.  She holds out her hands to Matthew and he goes easily into her arms.  As Mrs. Evans and Matthew pass Max on their way up the stairs, Matthew reaches out his hand and wipes away the single tear that fell on Max’s cheek.

Liz, feeling as though her life is moving in slow motion, sits on the floor, tears streaming down her face as she stares at Max.

After Matthew and Mrs. Evans go upstairs Max, also feeling like his life is moving in slow motion, approaches Liz.

Max sits on the floor directly in front of Liz, neither says a word.  They sit and stare at each other for what feels like an eternity.

“Liz…”

“Max…”

Within an instant, they are touching each other’s face, trying to slow down the feelings overwhelming both of them.  It’s the love, the intensity and the passion of finding one’s soul mate – after feeling as though they were a lifetime apart.  Both of them breathe as though it was their first breath. 

Max tentatively touches her long silky hair then lifts a shiny lock to his cheek.  He then breaths in her hair, remembering the cherry almond scent mixed with Liz – pure Liz.  Gently, he rubs her hair along his lips as he stares into her eyes.

His touch and gaze reek havoc with her inner being to the point where Liz is unable to breathe anymore.  She can not believe what she sees and feels….the depth of passion returns in a heartbeat.  They slowly lean in to each other and kiss.  Liz leaves her eyes wide open, unable to close them, for the fear that he will disappear...afraid she is dreaming this, what she’s dreamed about for four years.  The sensations felt between them bring back bittersweet memories from long ago.

Max breaks the kiss, sighs heavily into her mouth then whispers.  “Liz, where do we begin?”

Liz smiles softly at him. “How about somewhere around….I missed you.”

“God, I can’t even begin to express how much I’ve missed you…Liz….” Max holds her hands.  He senses hesitancy and looks into her eyes. “What is it?”

Struck, as always, by the intensity of his stare, unable to match it, Liz looks down at his chest. “I have so much to share with you, about my life.  That’s where I don’t know where to begin.” 

Max smiles gently and touches her cheek. “We’ve gone through so much in the past, I believe we’ll get through more.  That is…unless, things have changed too much…Liz, your son…Matthew, he’s adorable – incredible.  I’m so happy for you…and Alex.”

Liz looks up at him, surprised.  “Alex?”

“Well, when I first touched Matthew, I made a connection with him.  I didn’t know I could do it so…it was so strong and long, filled with a rush of intense images.  It was you…always you, Liz.  I saw you beautifully pregnant.  Then I saw all the significant people surrounding you at Matthew’s birth. Alex was holding on to your hand, for dear life – I felt his worry. I felt the intensity of your love and pain.  I also felt longing and sadness.  It was so incredible.”  Max pauses and trails his fingers along her lips.  He kisses her cheeks, tastes the salt of her warm tears and brushes them away as they stream down her cheeks. “Liz, you and Alex…made a beautiful child…”

Liz blinks, looking at Max as if he is utterly out of his mind, and bursts out laughing.

Max gets up, hurt by her response, moves away and pushes a shaky hand through his hair.

Liz, realizing that a big miscommunication, no, ‘mis-connection’ took place goes over to Max and places her arms around his waist and gently chuckles. “I’m sorry.  Max, look at me.”

Max looks off to the side, unable to fathom how she could laugh at him…the situation. 

She squeezes him around the waist. “Max. Okay, don’t look at me if you don’t want to – but you will listen.  I don’t think you understand what happened.  God, did you forget basic Earth math? Let me explain.  Your interpretation of the connection is a bit off.”  At his doubtful glance she sighs and continues. “ That was a connection generated from Matthew, who happens to be a few months over 3 years and was conceived either upstairs in your bed, or mine…four years ago just before you left.  Matthew is your son - he looks exactly like you.  The connection was his way to introduce you to him…and to welcome you home.”  

Max, speechless, stares at her.  After a minute of just looking at her Max quietly asks.  “Really…Liz, how is this possible?”

Liz sighs.  “Max, you’re joking, right?  Didn’t you look at his adorable ears…his ‘not of this Earth’ eyes?  I guess he hasn’t shared his favorite snack with you yet, my remedy for morning sickness, too – Vanilla wafer and banana sandwiches topped with Tabasco sauce.”

With that comment, Max’s knees buckle under him and he sits on the edge of the coffee table, his whole body shaking.  “Liz, you mean…that beautiful child…is mine…and yours…?”  He looks up at her with tears in his eyes, understanding and seeing it with complete clarity.  “Liz, I’m so sorry I wasn’t here.”

Liz kneels down between Max’s legs, then places her hands on his chest, resting her fingers at the base of his neck and whispers. “Never say you are sorry for what has happened.  Yes, it was indescribably hard without you.   It was torture actually.  The feelings that you connected with at Matthew’s birth…my sadness and longing…it was  for you….I missed you and I knew how you would feel about not being there.  It’s okay though.  We’ve managed to stay safe, to persevere despite your absence.  I was elated when Matthew was born. How could I not be? Matthew is your mirror image.  I won’t deny that I felt like I couldn’t live without you, that I couldn’t maintain my sanity.  When you first left, I died a thousand deaths.  But I found solace, with your mother’s help, knowing I carried your child.  I did the best I could for Matthew until you would return to us.  I never doubted your return…or your love.  But most importantly, you’re here now. I hope, Max, you are here…to stay.”

Max stares at her in awe of her inner strength, wondering how she kept the hope, her positive outlook throughout all this.  Again, her faith and trust humble him.  He kisses the tears in her eyes as he places his arms around her waist. “Wherever else would I want or need to be?  Liz, you own my heart and have my child.  With you I am home, you are my home…always.  I love you, forever.”

“And my love for you, Max, it’s still here for you.  I’ve been holding it in, saving it for you…and I don’t know if I can keep holding it in any longer.  I need you so.”  Liz cries, her body trembles.  “Nothing’s changed for me when it comes to you.  Remember the words we exchanged?  My love endures.  I made that promise and I haven’t forgotten.  Do you know that you have given me so much?  You were constantly with me, parts of you.  I’ve yearned all these years to have you here with me, with us…”

Max seeing it all now making sense, seeing the unwavering love and devotion in her eyes, grabs Liz fiercely in his arms. “I’ve waited…it’s been a lifetime since we’ve been together. And now, to know I have you…have a beautiful son….a son.  Do you think..?  I mean, will he accept me, forgive me…want to call me ‘daddy’?”

Feeling Max’s insecurity, Liz is quick to reassure him. “Accept you, forgive you?  Max, there is nothing to forgive, please believe me.  I mean, it’s up to the two of you what he calls you, but he needs you - just as much as I do.  I tried to make the right choices, sometimes it was so hard to know.  To protect you, us, I hid you deep within me.  Maybe I was trying to protect Matthew from experiencing the loss I felt. Maybe I was selfish, I don’t know.  But I always sensed he knew of you.  He’s been waiting, too, Max – without words, I felt it in him, in our connections.  Speaking of which, can’t you tell he needs help with his connections, since the first one he shared with his father got a little mixed up?  We both need you so…” 

Max reaches down and kisses her waiting lips.  He trails his mouth across her jaw line, to her ear, which he takes into his mouth.  Liz gasps when she feels the pull of his lips, the slight tugging of his teeth on her earlobe.  Max’s mouth begins a decent down her neck.  The feel of his breath on her neck sends shivers down her spine. 

When his mouth touches a link of metal, he pulls back his head.  Max reaches an index finger to pull on the metal chain.  Slowly he removes the locket from beneath her shirt and holds it in his shaking hand while he stares at it.  He looks up at Liz with tears in his eyes.  “You still wear this?”

Liz smiles warmly, tears shimmering on her lashes.  “I told you I would never take it off.  I never did.  Of course, there was the time when Matthew was two, he pulled the chain and accidentally broke a link.  I panicked and rushed to the jeweler to have it fixed immediately.  The guy must have thought me crazed because I made him fix it while I waited.  I felt naked without it around my neck, like another piece of you slipped away from me.”

As Liz is still kneeling between Max’s legs, he pulls her as close as he possibly can, heart to heart - which is where they remain, silently holding each other.

Part 5:

Meanwhile, upstairs in Max’s old room, Matthew and Mrs. Evans are playing together. 

Isabel walks out of her room, curious to hear her mother talking softly, more surprised when she hears a little boy’s response.  Moving forward she enters Max’s room and takes in the scene. “Mom?”

Mrs. Evans turns to Isabel.  Matthew sits quietly, looking at the toy spaceship he holds in his hand.  Isabel just stares at the top of Matthew’s dark head.

Mrs. Evans breaks the silence and smiles. “I’d like you two to meet.”

Matthew shyly stands up, looks between both ladies and slowly approaches Isabel, his eyes to the floor.  In response, Isabel kneels to the floor so that she is on his level. “Hi.”

Matthew looks up at her, smiles shyly then places his arms around her neck and whispers. “Hi, Aunt Isabel.  Welcome home.”

Seeing that gaze, Isabel’s look of surprise does not go unnoticed.  She looks up at her mother, both have tears shimmering in their eyes.  As Isabel gently places her arms around Matthew she mouths a one-word question, “Max?”

Mrs. Evans nods her head.

Isabel, again without saying the words aloud, questions. “Where is he?  Does he know?”

Mrs. Evans finds her first words as she wipes the tears from her eyes and says, “Max and Matthew were just playing together.  I believe he knows now.  Max and Liz are downstairs talking.”

As Matthew pulls back, he shyly smiles at Isabel.

Isabel smiles in return. “My aren’t you a handsome boy.”

Matthew giggles before asking his question.  “So Aunt Isabel, when are you going to bring Celeste home?”

Isabel is shocked and on a very rare occasion blushes profusely before looking up at her mother and smiles weakly.

Mrs. Evans raises her eyebrow. “Who is Celeste?”

Isabel picks up Matthew, hugs him then turns to her mother. “She’s…well.”

“Grandma, Celeste is my cousin.  I would like to meet her now.”  Matthew states emphatically.

Mrs. Evans draws in a deep breath at that comment, then sits down on Max’s bed.  Speechless, she looks at her daughter.

Isabel, figuring that Max spilled her news to Matthew, makes a mental note that she has to get back at her brother.  Thinking to herself, ‘Doesn’t he get how refreshingly honest and open three year olds can be?  I will get him back for this.’   Isabel carries Matthew to the bed and sits down next to her mother and graces her with a smile. “Mom, we have a lot to talk about… a lot to catch up on.”

“Yes, we certainly do.” Mrs. Evans says. “For now, I think you should answer Matthew’s question, because it’s mine, too.  When are you going to bring Celeste home?”

Isabel and her mother hug.  “I’ll tell you what.  Why don’t the two of you come with me to the site?  Michael is expecting me or Max pretty soon.”

With a serious expression on his face (reminding Isabel of Max), Matthew comments. “Excuse me.  I need to go ask if it’s okay.”  With that, he gets down off of his aunt’s lap and leaves.

Isabel watches Matthew walk out the door. “That is definitely Max’s son.” 

Part 6

Back downstairs Max still sits on the coffee table, holding Liz in his arms.  He thinks, ‘I will never let you go, ever.’  A tear slips through his closed eye and he feels a finger brush it away.  When he opens his eyes, Max draws a deep, shuddering breath for he finds himself looking at, really seeing a mirror’s reflection of his own eyes – in Matthew’s eyes.  Once the cloud of fear and anxiety lifted, Max knew without a doubt that this beautiful child is his own.  Taking one arm away from Liz, Max gently touches Matthew’s hair and cheek, resting his hand on his son’s face.

Liz slightly pulls back and smiles at her son, tears are in her eyes, too.  Matthew shyly looks from one parent to the other, like he wants to say something, but hesitates.

Max, sensing Matthew’s uncertainty, gently encourages him. “Come here.”   Matthew climbs up on to one of Max’s legs.

Liz, knowing her son all too well says, “Matthew, did you want to ask something?”

Matthew looks from one to the other then draws a big sigh. “May I please go out with Grandma for a little bit?”

Max starts to say no because he wants to be with his son, get to know him, but stops himself, uncertain whether he has any right to make decisions, even this small one at this point.

Liz says, “Yes, you may – as long as you’re not gone long.”

Matthew smiles at his mother’s approval, reminding Max of Liz’s beautiful smile yet again.  Matthew says, “Thank you.  And…?”  He just turns and looks at Max squarely in the eye.

Max notices that the hanging question appears to be geared toward him. “Yes, Matthew?  Did you want to ask me something?”

Matthew looks down at his hands resting in his lap.   He notices Max’s large hand next to his, resting on his leg.  Matthew gently lays his hand on top of Max’s.  He looks up again into Max’s eyes and asks, “Can I….can I….can I call you Daddy now?”

Without a pause Max gives him affirmation. “Yes, yes.  Oh, God yes, Matthew…my son.”  Max can not control the shaking of his voice or his body as he pulls both Matthew and Liz closely into his arms, each sitting on one of his legs.

And 15 minutes later, Mrs. Evans and Isabel find the three of them, Max, Liz and their son, Matthew sitting together on the coffee table – a family together, forever, finally united as one.

Part 7

Max and Liz are on their way to Liz, Matthew and Alex’s home.

After a warm reunion between Isabel and Liz, it was agreed, much to Max’s disagreement, that Matthew could go to the site to greet Celeste and Michael.  After Liz pulled Max aside and explained that she wanted to take him back to her home to see if there were any cupcakes to be had, Max was much more agreeable.

As Liz and Max walk up to her doorstep, they are in companionable silence.  Max suddenly lifts Liz into his arms. Liz laughs a carefree laugh.  “Max, what are you doing?”

Max gives her that penetrating stare – the gaze that makes her stomach quiver. “I’m just recreating some memories that have repeatedly played in my mind over the years…memories that held my sanity.”

Liz throws her keys that were in her hand on the ground. “I couldn’t agree with you more.”

They kiss on the front door step as Max uses his powers to open the door.  “Which way?” He whispers as he slightly pulls away from her lips.

Liz quickly shows him where they need to go.  The minute they are in her room, they fiercely kiss and Max pulls his arm out from beneath Liz’s legs.  He feels her legs, her soft body gently caress the length of him and his body hardens in response.   Once her feet are on the floor, Liz hesitantly pulls away from him, breaking their kiss.

Max’s body shakes, uncertain if it is because of the excited tension built up in his body or as a result of the separation from her warmth.  He growls.  “Liz, what is it?”

“Max, I need to show you something.” Liz says as her hand goes to the top button of her shirt.

Max groans, smiles and teases. “I certainly hope so.”

Liz giggles when she realizes what she said and what he is thinking. “No, something else…a part of you.”

Max stares seriously into her eyes. “I know.”  He quickly lifts his shirt over his head to reveal his chest.

Much in awe and with tears in her eyes, Liz gently caresses Max’s chest where her handprint is.

“Liz, please allow me?” Max asks as he gently places his fingers on the top button of her shirt.  Liz gently nods her head as Max begins to unbutton it.  With a quick grin, Max leans down and kisses her chest.  Encouraged by her surprised gasp and in-drawn breath, Max continues opening each button and kisses her soft skin as he goes.  Liz is mindless to everything but the heat of his lips on her body.  After removing her shirt, he reaches behind her back and removes her bra.  He looks into her eyes, then back to her chest.  Slowly, he leans down and kisses each and every spot of his silver handprint.

“Max.” Liz’s entire being quivers from the heat of his mouth on her body.  She holds his head to her, running her fingers through his soft hair, unable to catch a breath.  She then trails her hands down his shoulders and back, feeling every part of him that she can reach, reveling in the feel of his firm muscles.   She scores his back with her fingernails, moaning aloud at the sensations his mouth and tongue evokes.

Max is just as mindless as Liz.  Her skin is so soft and smooth that he doesn’t realize how and when he picked her up and placed her on the bed.  Neither one remembers removing their remaining clothes, but they both gasp at the contact of naked heat.  The next thing Max realizes is that Liz has wrapped her legs around his waist, pulling him toward her as her tongue is caressing his fiercely.  Her taste is ecstasy in his mouth.  Her scent entraps his inner being bringing him home for good.  

As they come together as one, they know nothing will ever separate them again.  The silent promise. They create a connection, as intense as they remember from their past.  Despite the length and challenges of their journey to love again, nothing has changed.   Their love, the intensity, and the yearning for each other endure.  It’s the mingling of souls and bodies that leave them breathless and gasping.

Later on they are lying in each other’s arms, slowly caressing each other’s body wherever their hands take them.   The exploration makes Liz gasp at Max’s gentle touch.  Liz’s tender yet evocative touch makes Max’s breathing come in shallow spurts.   Without warning, their bodies desire intense release and they come together again… another earth-shattering explosion of minds and bodies.  Liz stares up at Max in wonder.  Max returns the favor, losing himself in the deep, dark pools of her eyes.  Max holds Liz’s hips closely to him as he rolls over so that she is lying on top of him.  Their bodies are still joined as one. 

“I could stay here forever.” Max whispers as his fingers gently entangle in her hair.  He deeply inhales Liz’s scent mingled with his, creating theirs.

Liz reaches up and caresses his lips with her tongue.  She has a mischievous gleam in her eye. “Are you sure?  I mean, I want to stay with you forever this way, too.  But, don’t you think Matthew will want to spend a little time with us?  I know he wants to get to know you.  I just don’t think this is the appropriate place.”

Max chuckles, melting Liz’s heart. “You’re right.  But it’s going to take them a little longer to get back from the site.  So until then…”

Being unable to resist the lambent look in Max’s eyes and the swelling within her, again, Liz begins to move her hips in rhythm with Max…

Suddenly a voice is heard from downstairs. “Liz?  Where are you?  I found your keys lying outside on the ground?”

Feeling as though they have been drenched in cold water, Max and Liz break apart.

“Oh, my God!”  Liz is shaken, but excited.  She grabs Max’s arm.  “Max, I forgot Maria is coming over for lunch.  Let’s go!  She will be so excited to see you.” 

In frustration, Max groans.  He searches for the humor in the situation, sighs then laughs at Liz’s exuberant rush of excitement. “Liz, slow down.  You may want to let Maria know you will be down – momentarily.  But I, for one, am not going downstairs like this.  Knowing Maria, she’d have a heart attack.  God, I hope she’s got some cedar oil – has she changed much?   Well, that was a silly question. Obviously she hasn’t changed, since she still finds the worst possible moments to interrupt us.”  

Liz laughs, jumps off the bed and opens the bedroom door.  She yells down the stairs. “Maria, I’ll be right there, make yourself comfortable.”

“As if I never do.” Maria is heard laughing from below.

Liz closes the door and looks at Max who is lying in bed smiling at her, appreciating the view of her soft behind.  Liz blushes, runs to him and laughs. “I have never been more happy than I am right now.”

“I plan to improve on that day after day, Liz.  I mean it.  I am never going anywhere without you again.” Max kisses her fully on the lips.  When her body starts melting into his, Max reluctantly ends the kiss.

Liz opens her eyes slowly and says breathlessly. “I will never let you go again.  Not ever.”

Max laughs and playfully pushes her away. “You better get down there.”

Liz hurriedly dresses in a pair of jeans and a sweatshirt.  At the door she turns and graces him with a smile. “Give me a minute with her then come down, okay?”  At Max’s broad smile, she blows him a kiss then leaves.  Despite the discomfort of his body, Max chuckles as he dresses.

Downstairs Maria is sitting in the living room.  Liz rushes around the corner with her cheeks flushed.  “Hey, Maria.”

Maria looks up with a smile on her face, which promptly falls as she takes in Liz’s disheveled appearance. “Liz, you…I mean, uh, are you okay?”

“I’m fine, Maria.  Why?”  Liz innocently questions.

“Well, if you ask me, it looks like you just got out of bed.”  Maria remarks off-handedly.

“I did.”  Liz states with a shrug of her shoulders as she enters the room.

“Okay,” Maria says then pauses.  “No, no, no, Liz.  I don’t think you understand what I mean.  I mean, you look like…like…well, for one, your hair is all messed up, your cheeks are flushed and your eyes…God, I can’t even say it.”  She looks at the ground then mumbles. “It’s as if Max is here.”

“I am.” Max’s voice is heard from behind her.

Liz laughs as Maria jumps off the couch at the sound of his voice. 

Maria just stares at him.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.  Maria, are you okay?” Max says feeling concerned.

Maria just stares at him.

“Liz, get the cedar oil.”  Max says as he makes eye contact with the love of his life.

Seeing those Max/Liz looks again, Maria regains her composure and finds her voice.  “Sorry, spaceboy, but I gave up cedar oil four years ago.  Didn’t have much reason to continue the habit.  Yeah, life’s been pretty boring…well, for me that is.”

All three laugh as Max approaches Maria and hugs her.  He looks at her very seriously. “Thank you.”

Maria smiles at the blatant reminder of just how intense Max can be. “What for?”

“For taking care of Liz for me and for helping, with Matthew.  I owe you.”  Max says.

Maria looks at Liz and laughs. “So he’s informed of all?”

“Yeah,” says Liz with tears in her eyes.  “Maria, actually, Matthew is with Max’s mom right now…with Isabel, going back to the site.”

Maria looks from Max to Liz, the question is on her face, but she’s too afraid to ask.

Max grabs Liz’s hand as he turns to Maria. “Michael is there.  You need to know that….”

Before Max could finish his sentence, Maria screams and runs out the door.

Liz turns to Max and says, “I wish she would have let you finish…about Isabel’s news.”

Max hugs Liz and says, “Yeah, I know.”

Outside, Maria gets into her Jetta and turns on the engine.  She doesn’t pull out as she sees Alex driving toward her.  Instead she jumps out of the car and runs up to Alex’s car.

“Hey, Maria,” says Alex as he pulls his car in the driveway.  “What’s up?”

“You’ll never guess, Alex.”  Maria says excitedly.  “I’m off, gotta go, but great news, great news.”

Alex laughs at the exuberance that he hasn’t seen in Maria for quite some time.  “Are you going to tell me or am I still out of the loop?”

“Ha,” says Maria, “Just go in the house.”

Alex laughs as he turns off the car and watches Maria breeze away.

Alex enters the house, determined to get some lunch.  He walks by the living room door and briefly looks in.

Liz and Max simultaneously smile and say, “Hi Alex.”

Alex doesn’t break his stride as he keeps walking toward the kitchen. “Oh, hey Liz, Max.”

Liz and Max just look at each other.  At Max’s questioning gaze, Liz shrugs her shoulders in response.

Twenty seconds pass in silence before Max and Liz, still staring at the doorway, notice a hand grab the door frame.  Having the grace to blush, Alex slowly walks in the room smiling.  He gives a brief chuckle, places his hand on his neck, slightly rubbing it.  “So, Max.  Well.  So…you…you.  Ummm, you’re looking well.”  He glances at Liz and playfully adds. “And Liz, you look…ravished.”

Liz, now having the grace to blush, turns to Max and they share a soft look.

“Hey, Alex.”  Max says as he extends his hand to him.  “Thank you.”

Alex takes Max’s hand.  “Don’t mention it.  Welcome home.”  Max and Alex briefly hug each other. “Wait here a minute, I need to go get something for you.”  He leaves the room.

Max and Liz look questioningly at each other, silently waiting for Alex’s return.

When he comes back, he hands Liz a few pieces of paper. “This is actually for you, but Max, you will benefit as well.”

Liz opens the paper as Max peers over her shoulder.  Max asks, “Annulment papers?”

Liz looks at Alex with tears in her eyes. “Alex, I’m confused.  The document is dated the same day that we got married.  What does this mean?”

Alex sighs. “Liz, you were so heartbroken that day.  It was a favor I asked of Max’s father.  He drew up the papers for me.  Basically, all you have to do now is sign and date them yourself.  And then we can file them and be done with it.”

With tears in her eyes, Liz approaches Alex and throws her arms around his shoulders. “Thank you.  You have been so good to us.” 

Alex looks up at Max. “It’s up to you now.”

Max says, “Liz, come here.”

Liz, taken aback at the edge in Max’s voice, let’s go of Alex and returns to Max.  She notices that Max continues to stare at Alex.  Liz reaches up and kisses Max on the lips.  “Max.  Look at me.”  When he doesn’t respond, she continues. “I love you.”

Max takes his eyes away from Alex and softy looks into Liz’s eyes.  He sighs. “I love you, too.”  He kisses her on the forehead. “Could you leave Alex and me alone please? I need to talk with him.”

Liz laughs. “Sure.  I guess I could go make myself look presentable.”  Noticing that Max didn’t respond to her attempt to be light-hearted, she smiles up at him. “Don’t go anywhere.”  She then kisses him before she walks out.

Max stands staring at Alex while Alex feels a little uncomfortable, a little unsure of Max’s agenda.  Max finally breaks the long silence. “Are you in love with her?”

“Who, Liz?” asks Alex with a smile.

Max’s gaze doesn’t waiver. “Are you?”

Alex sighs. “Max, Max, Max.  Of course I love Liz.”  When Max takes a shaky hand through his hair, Alex clarifies his statement.   “But I’m not in love with her.  Are you okay?  I mean, I know it’s been four years, and I can empathize with some insecurity, but come on Max.  Didn’t you see her response to you? To this day, Liz only has eyes for you.  Stop worrying – enjoy being home.  I take it you’re here for good, given the look I saw in Liz’s eyes?”

Max sits down. “Sorry Alex.  I just didn’t know what to expect.  It’s been a long time.  I was worried….” 

“Max, it’s okay,” Alex reassures him.  “Remember, I did my part.  But I won’t forgive you if you don’t fix it for her.”

Finally, Max smiles a genuine smile at Alex. “You can count on it.  So, did you say something about lunch?    I’m starved.”

Alex laughs, “Yeah, come on.  Let’s go find something.  Seems like you and Liz both could use another kind of nourishment.”

Max pops Alex on the shoulder, draws him in a hug as they walk to the kitchen.  As they start to make sandwiches, Liz enters.  “Hey, can I help with anything?” she asks.

Max approaches her, kisses her on the neck and whispers in her ear. “Help me tell him about Is?”

Liz smiles. “Sure.  Alex, we were wondering if you had any thoughts on or questions about a certain sibling.”

Alex shrugs his shoulders and looks away. “No, not at this time.”

Max notices that what was intended to be an open discussion turns rather tense for Alex.  “Alex, I think you should know…”

“I disagree, Max.  I don’t need to know anything.  Let’s not talk about it.  End of discussion.”  Alex says before moving to the refrigerator.

Liz takes up the space at the kitchen sink, looking out the window and says, “Max, could you come here?”  Max approaches Liz and they look out the window together. Both smile as they see the Evans’ family van driving around the corner.

Within minutes there are small feet running into the kitchen.  “Daddy!” Matthew screams as he runs up to his father.

Max laughs, picks up Matthew and throws him in the air.  As he hugs him tightly to him, they both giggle.  Alex watches silently the happy greeting between father and son.  As Matthew continues to giggle uncontrollably, Alex turns to Liz and questions, “Is that the same little boy who usually walks into the house so quietly with his hands in his pockets?”

Liz who can not control the tears that come to her eyes as she continues to watch Max with Matthew says, “Yeah, amazing isn’t it?  Both of them are taking on a few new characteristics together.”

Alex smiles and says, “I don’t think things will ever be the same around here.”

“And I am so looking forward to the change,” says Liz as she hugs her two guys.

The fun-filled moment is quickly shattered with a simple greeting.  “Hi, Alex,” says Isabel who is standing in the doorway.

Alex slowly turns toward her, unable to get beyond the catch in his throat.  He thinks to himself, ‘She’s not changed a bit.  In fact, she’s grown more beautiful.  She’ll never settle for someone like me.’  Outwardly, he smiles and says, “Hello, Isabel.”

Isabel has tears in her eyes, remembering with clarity the pain and sadness she felt when she left him.  She thinks, ‘He’s changed.  Will he ever forgive me?  He even looks different, taller, broader…even more irresistible.  How can I make him want me again?’ 

Sensing the tension in the room, Liz turns to Max and Matthew and says, “Let’s give them some space to talk.  Why don’t we go find Grandma, Matthew?”

As the three walk out the door, Max turns to Isabel and says, “Tell him everything, Is.  He’ll understand.”

“Thanks, Max,” Isabel says with a weak smile.

After a few moments of silent privacy, Alex says, “So, Isabel, how are you?  Why did you come back?  There was no need.  You did what you had to do – find your home, who you are.  I always hoped you found it.  I’m happy for you.”

Unable to accept the coldness of his tone, Isabel burst into tears.  As her voice quivers uncontrollably she says, “I don’t expect you to forget, but I need your forgiveness Alex.  I can just imagine how you must have felt – how you obviously still feel.  I am so sorry.  If I could change things, I would.”

Alex turns from her, finding it too painful to look at her, and says, “There’s nothing to forgive.  You explained it all in the letter.  Hey, I know that we weren’t close for very long and maybe our night together was just a fluke.  I’ve learned to live with it.  It’s okay Isabel.”

Isabel is in tears, mindless to even come up with an explanation or response.  They stand in silence.

Meanwhile in the living room, Max, Liz and Mrs. Evans wait patiently.  Matthew and Celeste are playing on the floor.   Max turns to his mother, “I don’t hear much conversation coming from the kitchen.”

“Max, you’re not supposed to eavesdrop,” Liz says to him.

Max smiles and hugs her close to him and says, “I know, I’m just curious to see how things will turn out for them.  I’m worried about Isabel.  She’s made a lot of choices, firm in her convictions, but she’s always worried about Alex.  It’s as if he’s always thrown her off balance.  Of course, she needed that in her life.” Max rests his chin on the top of Liz’s head as she rests on his chest.

Mrs. Evans says, “You’re right Max.”

As the three continue to talk, Matthew goes unnoticed when he shyly grabs Celeste’s hand and walks out the door toward the kitchen.  Celeste silently approaches her mother and places her arms around her legs.  In response, Isabel reaches down and picks up her daughter.  Matthew approaches Alex and tugs on his pant leg, “Uncle Alex.”

“Not now, Matthew,” Alex sighs, “I’ll talk to you later.”

“No, please,” Matthew says.  When Alex looks down at him he says, “You need to meet Celeste now.”

Alex smiles and asks, “Who’s Celeste?”

Matthew points to Celeste who is held by Isabel.  Alex turns to them, holds his breath when he sees a miniature Isabel in her arms.

“She’s my daughter, Alex,” Isabel explains.

“And she’s your daughter, too, Uncle Alex,” states Matthew.

“WHAT?” yells Alex.

Out in the living room, Max, Liz and Mrs. Evans exchange a look, noticing for the first time that the children aren’t in the room with them.  Liz groans and looks concerned, thinking it is too early for the children to be involved, but she is comforted when Max says, “It’s okay Liz.  Is there a better time for him to know than now?  If his feelings for Isabel are just a portion of what I feel for you, he is going to be ecstatic with this news.  Have I told you how much I love your giving me a beautiful son?”

Liz responds by touching his lips with her own ever so gently.  Max quickly becomes a willing participant and the kiss becomes mutually more intense.  And for a few minutes, the worries of family members and the fact that his mother is sitting in the room with them don’t have meaning, for Max and Liz are aware only of each other’s existence.

Part 8:

Across the street, Michael approaches Maria’s front door, arm raised to knock at the same time that Maria opens the door.  For a second they stare at each other, speechless, until Michael smirks. “There is nothing better for me than Roswell, New Mexico.”

Maria blinks at him as if coming out of a trance, puts her hands up to his shoulders and promptly pushes him back.  As Michael loses his footing, he stumbles back. “Hey, what’s up, Maria?”

Maria slams the door in his face.  She is furious that he would show up at her doorstep.  ‘Four long years of waiting,’ she says to herself.  ‘How dare he come back here after starting a family with Isabel?  Isabel?!  For God’s sake, how could I have been so stupid to wait for him just over a silly vision.’  Out loud she screams. “Go away, Michael!”

Michael yells loudly and pounds his fist on the door. “Open this door.”

“No!”  Maria yells back.

Michael yells louder. “If you don’t open this door, I will.  You know, I have the ability to open it.”  Without waiting for a reply, Michael uses his powers to open the door.  Because her place is so small Michael sees Maria headed out the back door to her car and promptly turns around and goes outside.

Maria gets into the car, turns it over and begins to pull it around the side of the house.  She has to put on the brakes because there stands Michael in the way, looking as gorgeous as he ever did.  Angry at where her thoughts just went, she screams through the windshield at him.  “Get out.”

Michael responds by crossing his hands in front of him. “No.  Not until you tell me what’s going on.  What are you doing?”

Maria glares at him and screams. “Move!”  Pressing her hand on the horn, she then starts to move the car forward.

Michael, totally confused, totally frustrated puts his hands on the hood of the car.  Being a recipient of another irrational and unwarranted Maria glare, Michael clenches his teeth, reaches his hand out and waves it over the hood and promptly overheats the car.

Maria screams her frustration, gets out of the car and approaches Michael.  “What did you do that for?”  She demands.

“Me?  What about you?  You were about to run me over.” Michael says totally confused.

“Just get out,” Maria demands.  “You’ve been gone, like, forever.  I’ve moved on.  And you obviously have moved on as well.”

“What are you blathering about, Maria?”  Michael questions.

“Don’t give me that Michael.  I know what I saw when I went to greet you, to welcome you home.  I saw you with your beautiful family.”  Maria screams at him.

“Again, what are you talking about?” Michael questions. “What family?”

“How about the cute little girl I saw you and Isabel passing off between each other.  Did you forget so soon? Kind of like the vision thing.  Were you able to conjure up lies all those years ago?”  Maria demands.

Michael is unable to form a coherent thought since he saw her, is overwhelmed by her raw energy and beauty.  He was always drawn to her, continues to be drawn to her, but saddened, turns away and takes a deep breath.  He slowly says in a whisper, shaken by her comments. “I do not have a family with Isabel.  I came back to start a family with you.”

They stand there in silence.  Maria uncertain she really heard what he said, she decides to play it safe by focusing the conversation away from them for a moment. “So, Isabel is a mom.  I saw the blonde-haired little girl.  May I ask, who is her father?”

Michael sighs and softly answers. “Alex.”  He then turns and looks at her straight in the eye.

The folly of her words and actions fill Maria with dread.  “So I….”

“Impulsively accused me without waiting to know the truth.”  Michael states.

“And I actually….”  Maria tries again.

“Pushed me out the door and almost ran me over with your car.”  Michael says.

“And you….”  Maria says.

“Used my powers in front of God and everyone.”  Michael glances and waves a hand at the picture window full of people across the street.

As Maria follows Michael’s gaze, she groans as she sees Liz, Max, Matthew, Mrs. Evans, Isabel, Alex and the cute little girl all wave in return.  “And you…you…” Maria stutters then looks at her car, then again at Michael.

“I totaled your car.” Michael states.

Maria begins to cry. “And you’re still talking to me?”

“No, I’m not.  I’m through talking with you.”  Michael states.

Maria, sensing that she made the biggest mistake of her life frowns and turns away.  The next thing she knows, she’s being drawn into Michael’s arms.  He turns her to him and kisses her passionately.  A few minutes later, Michael pulls back for a breath. “I don’t want to talk right now.  Is there somewhere we can go?  Someplace without spectators?”

Maria, remembering where they are, waves at Liz and company, then throws her arms around Michael’s neck laughing and crying.  “I missed you so.”

“Ditto.”

And across the street everyone breathes a sigh of relief.  Alex chuckles.  “It looks like the Czechoslovakians are three for three.”

Max smiles as he picks up Matthew and hugs Liz tightly. “No Alex.  I believe we’re five for three.”

Part 9:

That same evening at the home of the Evans’ everyone is gathered: Max, Liz, Matthew, Isabel, Alex, Celeste, Michael, Maria, the Evans’, the Parkers’, the Whitmans’s and Amy Deluca.  Matthew and Celeste play on the floor with Max and Isabel’s childhood wooden blocks.

Max starts off the conversation while sitting next to Liz on the couch. “We’re glad you were able to take the time and talk with us this evening.  You see we just thought it would be best if you heard from all of us, at once, what happened.  We want you to understand what we did and why.”

Isabel comments. “The decisions we made over the years were very difficult, but we needed to try to find the answers to our past.”

Michael joins in. “You need to know that it was the hardest decision of our lives, but in a sense, our lives depended upon it.”

Mr. Evans interjects some ground rules as he looks around the room.  “I think we all agree that it was necessary for you to leave and find out about your origins.  No one is here to blame anyone.”

Nancy Parker stands up from her seat next to her husband.  She purses her lips and begins to step away.  Jeff, knowing that Nancy still struggles with the decisions of four years ago, reaches out and takes her hand.  “Nancy, please, let’s just give this a chance.  Please sit down.”  When she looks from Liz and Max to Matthew who is on the floor, she sits down.

Liz takes a hold of Max’s hand and squeezes it gently.  In response, Max squeezes her hand in response.  He continues to hold her hand, knowing he needs her strength to get through this difficult situation.  He had a feeling that Liz’s parents were unhappy with him, Nancy’s behaviors only confirmed his suspicions.

“It took us approximately two months to travel to our galaxy.  When we got there, we were invited to participate in health work ups.  Our people were worried that we suffered set backs, remaining in the pods for an extended period and then subsequently spending our youth on Earth.”  Isabel refused to look at Alex when she explained.

“Come on, Is.  You’re putting a nice face on intrusive and long-term probing of our bodies and our psyches.”  Michael blatantly stated.

“Max, what happened?  Please don’t hold back the truth.  We need to know.”  Liz pleads.

Max, turns to face Liz and takes a deep breathe.  “It was ironic really.  We worried that the Valentis or the FBI would dissect us when we ended being placed in confinement and monitored closely by our own kind.  Please know that the testing was not as bad as it could’ve been.  I mean, the practice of attempting to connect with the mind through touch was a piece of cake in comparison to our fears of what could’ve happened here – Earth medical technology being what it is.” 

With tears in her eyes, unable to grasp the significance of what he said, Liz asked for more clarification.  “Max, what do you mean by attempts at connecting?”

“In our world, they don’t use much verbal communication.  Our people communicate through connections, with heightened senses of touch and site.  They do understand and can use language, they generally choose not to.”  Max gently explains. 

“Instead, they preferred to probe our minds for information.  I think it was so they didn’t have to be bothered with our responses.”  Michael explains.

Maria sensing the bitterness in his voice gently inquires. “How long did this go on?”

Michael shrugs his shoulders.  “They spent a year monitoring me.  They spent two years with Max.”

“Why the different time frames?”  Liz questions as the fear is evident in her voice.

“They had difficulty connecting with me.”  Max explains, “Remember, I said they attempted to make connections?  With me, they weren’t able to do so as readily as they could with Michael and Isabel.”

 “Why, Max?”  Liz asks.

Max looks down at their joined hands, unable to explain.

“Liz, there were difficulties with Max.  He was physically different.”  Isabel explains.  When everyone looks at her strangely, she turns to Max.  “You are going to have to explain it Max.”

Max looks at Liz then at her parents.  He glances at his parents and at his mother’s nod he takes a breath. “Liz, I’m sorry to have to talk about this, but I think every one needs to understand.”  At the nod of Liz’s head, he goes on.  “Before we left, as you all figured out because of Matthew, Liz and I were intimate.  In the process, we gave our hearts to each other.  At first, we thought it was a metaphorical vow, but we quickly realized that we actually did give our hearts to each other.  This made it difficult for our people to connect with me.  They actually had to talk with me.”

“Don’t forget they tried to give you a heart transplant, Max.”  Michael reminded cynically.

At Liz’s gasp, Max was quick to reassure her.  “I didn’t allow them to do anything to your heart. Michael please let me explain it.  This was another reason why they spent more time with me. They tried to understand not only the physical differences but they wanted to delve into my emotional, psychological and spiritual connectedness with you.”

The implication of who was left out of this discussion made Alex literally jump out of his chair, tired of remaining the patient one.  “What about Isabel and Celeste?”

Isabel looks down at her hands folded in her lap before she quietly responds.  “You need to understand…about our people’s views on pregnancy.  It’s a practice they gave up the equivalent of 150 Earth years ago.”

“What?”  Mrs. Evans asks. “How is it possible to give up pregnancy?  How do your people procreate?”

“Mom, it sounds ridiculous, but I think I should explain about the incubation pods.”  Max decides to continue, knowing how painful this issue is for Isabel.  “We do procreate and conceive children the same way earthlings do.  It’s the gestation methods that are different.  Our people evolved into beings that had no time or use for physical or emotional pain.  They devised ways to allow the females to not have to go through the physical discomfort of pregnancy and child-birth.”

“Why would they want to do that?  I mean, as frightening and painful as it was to give birth, the experience is one that represents sheer happiness and love to me.”  Liz says, unable to fathom not having the experience of bringing Matthew into this world.   “I would not have survived Max’s absence, had I not carried his child within me.”  Max places his arm around his love, feeling again the pain of not being with her, to experience the pain and joy.

“Liz, why do you think I chose to carry Celeste full term?”  Isabel says.  “I couldn’t bear the separation from the only thing that connected me to Alex.  It was a choice I made, only according to my people, the wrong choice.  They argued that Celeste probably wouldn’t have any powers, already being half earthling.  They said her chances decreased when I refused to place her in an incubation pod.”  Isabel turns to Alex.  “I had to have that part of you with me.  I wouldn’t have survived otherwise.”

Alex, understanding fully for the first time what Isabel went through, hugs her closely.  He reflects on the difficult choices that she made.  He thinks that he really doesn’t deserve her love.  God, he was so immature four years ago, selfishly focused on his losses, not realizing what Isabel sacrificed.

“Don’t.”  Isabel whispers as she looks at him.  Alex kisses her softly on the lips in response.  All is forgiven and they both feel the love for each other that always existed, knowing the choices were selfless.  Hope for their future together is intact, stronger than they ever realized.

“Our people found that fetus’ placed in the incubation pods, made from natural materials on our planet, would enhance our powers.  The powers are predetermined by the parent’s genetic blending, but enhanced by the incubation pods.”  Max further explained.

Michael joined in to further explain.  “My parents and that of Max and Isabel’s decided to leave.  They were considered rebels.”

“Oh, well that’s a surprise coming from you.”  Maria chimes in.

Michael gently squeezes her shoulder. “What I mean to say is that our parents were unhappy with what was occurring in our world, so they chose to leave and find a new place to live.  My mother and Max and Isabel’s wanted to carry us to term, in lieu of the pods.  They were both in the first trimester of pregnancies when they left our planet.”

Isabel continued. “But on the ship, our mother decided to place us in the pods right away.  She was more cautious than Michael’s mother. Our people theorized that this was why Michael’s powers were never as advanced as Max’s and mine.  Michael’s mother chose to place him in the incubation pod during the middle of her second trimester, just before entering Earth’s atmosphere.  The choice was probably right.  All of our parents died in the crash.  Only Nasedo and our three pods survived.”

Everyone is silent for a period of time. Then Nancy Parker, no longer able to keep her silence, harshly breaks the quiet.  “So you were monitored for the first two years, Max.  What happened that it took you another two years before you chose to come back here?”

“Mom.”  Liz cautions.  Matthew, sensing the tension, goes to his parents and climbs on Max’s lap and hugs him.  A show of loyalty that doesn’t go unnoticed as Liz shares a soft look with Max, then with Mrs. Evans.  She returns her concerned gaze to Max.

“Liz, it’s okay.”  Max reassures as he gently caresses Matthew’s arm and places his other hand on Liz’s leg.  “Your mom asks a very fair question that deserves an answer.”  He looks at the Parkers.  “I don’t expect you to forgive my decisions, but I can try to explain.  When Michael was first released, he began to study our world.  Being who he is, Michael studied the outward, physical aspects of our planet – the landscape, the resources, the art and architecture.  By the time they were through monitoring me, I chose to study the medical and scientific aspects of our world.”

“Wait, I’m still missing something.” Alex says.  “When did they stop monitoring you, Isabel?”  Celeste has since climbed into her father’s lap, too.

Isabel looks at Alex, then down at her hands before she whispers. “Never.”  And a tear streaks down her cheek and falls to her hand.

Alex hugs Celeste with one arm, takes a hold of Isabel’s hand then kisses her cheek.  “Please, go on sweetheart.”

“They didn’t know what to expect…of the effects of pregnancy, child-birth and afterwards.  They weren’t used to seeing infants, toddlers and pre-schoolers for a few generations. So they watched me and monitored Celeste’s development while referencing past generation books on early childhood development.  Please know that it wasn’t intrusive testing, but watching.”  Isabel says in a rush.

Mr. Evans, always protective of Isabel, approaches her and touches her head.  “Sweetheart, I am so sorry.”

“It’s okay, dad.  Max and Michael were still there for me.  I was always with them.  And having Celeste with me gave me peace.  It also helped when a doctor asked to be assigned to me.  It was my first hope because she knew and supported our birth parents choices.  She was a great source of comfort and understanding.”  Isabel reassures her father.

Alex touches her chin, making her look into his eyes.  “I’m never letting you again.”

“I don’t plan on going any where.”  Isabel smiles.  “But Alex, you need to know, as a result of my choices, Celeste probably won’t have any special powers.”

Alex chuckles, “I can’t imagine a more special woman and child for me.”

The Whitmans watch in awe, happy for their son because he is reunited with the woman he loves and overjoyed with the fact that he is a father and they are grandparents. They silently watch their granddaughter’s sleeping face as it rests on Alex’s shoulder.

Silently taking everything in, Amy DeLuca finally approaches Michael and Maria.  “Michael, I know how hard things were for you on Earth.  For your sake, I’m happy to know it was somewhat easier for you on your planet.  And for Maria’s sake, I’m glad you’ve come back.”

Michael reaches out and kisses Amy on the cheek. “I’m home now, where I belong with Maria.”

“Max?”  Liz softly questions.

Max looks at Liz, seeing that her eyes rest on Matthew’s sleeping face as he lies comfortably on Max’s chest.  “Liz…” They look into each other’s eyes because they both know the unanswered question.  “I don’t know.”

Jeff Parker has been watching his daughter and grandson all evening long and has not missed a thing.  He made mental note very early on, that Max is very committed to Liz and Matthew.  He remembered how protective Max was of Liz in high school, inwardly smiling at the way Max even tried to protect Liz from her own parents at times.  This evening confirmed it for him – Max hasn’t changed.  “What don’t you know, Max?”

Max looks at Mr. Parker.  “With everything we learned, we assumed our children would not grow up with the same secrets that we did.  We thought they would grow up with normal, earthling capabilities, especially knowing that the two species are compatible.  But, well…”

Liz jumps in.  “Dad, Matthew actually does have special powers.  He’s able to connect and has done it with me since he was two years old.”

Mrs. Evans comments, too.  “He’s connected with me as well.”  At Nancy’s gasp, Diane continues.  “It’s not as though I was able to see into his feelings, it just seemed that I would be reminiscing about Max when Matthew was touching me.  And when he looked at me, I always felt he was feeling Max, through me.  He seems to have his own special power, too.  Sensing people before he knows them.”

“What’s that supposed to mean, Mom?”  Isabel questions.

Mrs. Evans gently laughs then says seriously. “More than you know Isabel.  For his and your protection, we all agreed four years ago that we would not mention any of you to him, not talk about you – or say your names in his presence.  It was a very difficult decision, but we just wanted to protect him, make sure he was safe, until Max returned.  So, basically, Isabel, he never heard or said your name…until today.”

Isabel looks at Max in surprise.  “So you never told Matthew about Celeste today?”  At Max’s nod Isabel continued.  “So when Matthew touched me, that’s when he sensed Celeste and knew?”

“Apparently so.”  Max says as he gently looks at his beautiful, sleeping son lying in his arms.  “This isn’t the time to go into this.  I want to get my son in bed.” 

Everyone silently agrees.

Part 10:

Everyone is outside the Evans’ home saying goodnights.

Max is gently placing Matthew’s sleeping form in the car seat as Liz explains how to buckle him in.  Mr. and Mrs. Evans are present with them.  Max looks up and notices the Parkers observing him closely.  “Excuse me a minute.”  Max walks over to the Parkers.  “Mr. and Mrs. Parker, may I please talk with you a minute?”

“Sure Max, what is it?”  Mr. Parker questions.

Max notices that Mrs. Parker’s jaw clenches, but is hopeful with Mr. Parker’s openness.  “I was just wanting to talk with you privately for a moment.”  At Jeff’s nod, Max continues.  “As I said earlier, I don’t expect you to forgive me for what I did.  But I want you to know that I love Liz more than life itself.  I want to make it up to her…and Matthew.  And I suppose I really would like your forgiveness…someday.  What I’m trying to say is…more than anything….I want Liz as my wife.  I want to marry her and spend the rest of my life with her.  I want to raise Matthew, my son.”

“Max, why are you telling us this?  Why don’t you talk with Liz about it?”  Nancy Parker questions, exasperated with the conversation and the situation.

Max sighs, disappointed that she doesn’t understand yet, the depth of his love for Liz and Matthew.  “I’m coming to you, because, well…I know you can’t forgive me for the past, but I want your blessing for the future.  Please, say you support Liz and me.  May I please marry your daughter, with your blessing?  I love her with everything in my being.”

“You’re right Max, I don’t forgive you for the past.”  Nancy stresses. “And as to the future, well, now that’s really up to you and Liz.  You don’t need answers from me.”  With that, she walks to their car and gets in.

Max look on, disappointment and sadness that he couldn’t get through to Liz’s mom.

Jeff, knowing and understanding Nancy’s position far too long, yet being able to see from the outside, or even more so, the male perspective, turns to Max.  “Don’t despair, Max.  She may eventually come around.  You need to know everyone has their skeletons in their closets.  And just to let you know, I got Nancy pregnant when she was young.  She planned to become a photojournalist and that all changed.  I guess she wanted more for Liz.  In fact, I think she tried to live her life vicariously through Liz, not realizing that was what pushed Liz away.   I guess the salt only entered the wound more, when Liz became so close with your mom.”

Max, looking intently at Mr. Parker, begins to understand.  He turns and watches Liz and his mother hugging each other good night.  “I can see how hard this must be on your wife.”

Jeff smiles.  “Don’t worry, I can say I don’t completely share my wife’s views.  I saw Liz glow during her pregnancy, much like Nancy did.  Your mom was a great source of comfort to Liz.  Your parents, Nancy and I have become quite close because of you and Liz.  It’s okay.”  Jeff pauses for a moment, noticing the uncertainty and question in Max’s eyes.  He chuckles.  “Max, I can speak for only myself.  I happily give you and Liz my blessing.” 

Max breathes a sigh of relief and shakes Mr. Parker’s hand before saying goodnight.  He returns to say goodnight to his parents before helping Liz into the jeep and getting into the driver’s seat.

Liz laughs. “So, is your driver’s license still good?”

Max turns to her with a smile.  “You never stopped being practical, have you?  Don’t worry, I’ve got one more year on this license.  I checked.”  Being unable to resist her impish grin, he leans over to kiss her.  He glows inside feeling her willing participation to deepen the kiss.

“Don’t you think you’re too old to be making out in the jeep?”  Maria questions.

Liz and Max end their kiss and Liz turns her head to glare at Maria.  “Max hasn’t been back 24 hours and you’ve interrupted us twice already.”

Maria and Michael laugh.

“To answer your question, no, Maria, I don’t think we’ve outgrown making out in the jeep.  In fact, I think we have some making up to do.”  Max says as he grabs Liz under the chin and kisses her soundly on the lips.

“Don’t you think you two ought to take that elsewhere?”  Isabel questions with a laugh from the other side of the jeep.

Liz looks at Max in the eyes. “Some things never change.”

“Max, I hate to be a downer, but I think we need to talk.”  Michael says.  At Max’s inquiring look, Michael continues.   “I mean, let’s think about this.  We never thought our kids would have special powers.  Now your son is defying the odds.  Maybe we should try to contact Nasedo.”

“No, that’s too dangerous Michael.  As much as we know he tried to look out for us in the past, his methods were misguided and dangerous.  I don’t want to jeopardize Liz or Matthew’s safety with Nasedo knowing this information.”  Max is emphatic with his decision.

“Max, I think it’s a little late for that.  Nasedo already knows about Matthew.”  Liz quietly informs them.

“What?!” is heard simultaneously from Michael, Maria, Isabel and Alex.

In response to the noise, Matthew begins to stir in his car seat.  “Daddy?”

Max turns to his son.  “It’s okay sweetheart.  We’re going home together now.” He turns to look at everyone else, then rests his gaze on Liz.  “Now isn’t the place for this discussion.  Let’s take Matthew home and put him to bed.  Then we’ll all talk.” 

Everyone nods agreement.

On the ride back, Max and Liz are quiet.  Liz is uncertain about what Max is thinking and can’t help but ask.  “Max, are you upset?”

Max looks to Liz quickly, then pulls the jeep off to the side of the road and put the car in park, but not turning off the ignition.  “Did Nasedo harm you or Matthew at any time?”

Liz looks at Max directly and emphatically says, “No.”

Max reaches out and touches Liz’s cheek.  “That’s all that matters to me.  I’m here now.  He’ll leave us alone.  I know it.”

And they kiss before Max pulls back on to the road.  Liz is content to know that Max is right, they weren’t harmed in the past and will now be left alone.

Part 11:

Back at Liz, Matthew and Alex’s home everyone returns.

Alex and Isabel take Celeste to the spare bedroom while Michael and Maria make some tea for everyone.  When they’re done, Alex and Isabel join Michael and Maria in the living room.

Max carries Matthew upstairs to bed accompanied by Liz.  As Max places him gently on the bed, Matthew slowly opens his eyes, which are glazed over.  He smiles.  “Hi, Daddy.”  He rubs his eyes.

“Hi, Matthew.  I’m sorry.  I didn’t mean to wake you.”  Max says.

“It’s okay.”  Liz explains.  “He’ll go back to sleep pretty quickly, especially since we learned to leave pajamas and a toothbrush at your parent’s home.”

Max sits down next to Matthew on the bed, as Liz tucks the covers under his chin. 

Matthew looks at Max. “Goodnight.”

Max smiles in response. “’Night.”

Liz kneels on the floor, resting one arm across Max’s leg as she reaches out with her other arm to push Matthew’s hair off of his forehead.  “Sweet dreams.”

Matthew smiles at Liz.  “Sweet dreams.”  He then looks expectantly at Max.

Max looks at Matthew, uncertain what to say.  He then turns to Liz who is smiling at them both.

“Matthew, I think we’re going to have to teach Daddy the whole routine.”  Liz says.

Matthew turns to his daddy. “Angels all around.”

“Angels all around.”  Max, being a quick study, says with a smile. “I love you.”

“Oooh,” Matthew sighs.  “That’s the final part, almost.  I love you with all my heart.”

“I love you with all my heart.”  Max says before he leans down to kiss his son.

Liz leans up and kisses Matthew, too.  “I love you with all my heart.”

As Liz stands, Matthew asks a question.  “Mommy can I listen to my favorite song?”

Liz smiles.  “Yes, providing you go right to sleep afterwards.”  Liz leans up and turns on the CD player, playing Matthew’s favorite song.  She turns on the night-light then she and Max stand.

“Daddy?”  Matthew questions.  Max returns to lean down next to Matthew.  “Did you come home on St. Judy’s Comet?”  He asks seriously.

Max looks at Liz, a surprised question written on his face.  Liz tilts her head toward the CD player to indicate the song that is playing.  Max, stops and listens, then smiles down at Matthew and whispers.  “I guess I did.”

Matthew smiles up at his father.  “Thank you.”

“What for?”  Max asks.

“For putting the sparkle in Mommy’s eyes.”  Matthew says seriously.

Max smiles, looks at Liz then leans close to Matthew.  “Can I tell you a secret?”

Matthew’s eyes grow big as he nods his head.

Max leans down, looks at Liz again then whispers in Matthew’s ear.  “She brought the sparkle into my eyes.  So I thank God for her…and you.”

Matthew giggles as Max kisses him then stands up.  Liz smiles a questioning look at Max, who just shrugs in response.  Matthew giggles again as Max places his arm around Liz’s shoulder.  At the door, Liz turns off the bedroom light.

“Mommy?”  Matthew questions as he rubs his eyes.  “I’m glad Daddy’s home.”

Liz looks at Max and rolls her eyes.  “Matthew, I think you are fighting the sleep now.  I know you’re glad Daddy is home.  Me, too.  Now, the quicker you go to sleep, the quicker you’ll see Daddy in the morning.”  Liz says gently but firmly.

Matthew giggles again, then clasps his hands together and places them under his cheek as he closes his eyes.

In the hallway, Max chuckles and takes Liz’s hands in his.  “You are good.”

“Hmmm.”  Liz says doubtfully.  “Not really.  He gets away with a lot, but I try.  I think he’s trying to impress his daddy.”

“His daddy is impressed.”  Max says.  “Not only with him, but with you.  Liz, you’ve done a tremendous job with him.  He is a loving, sweet and inquisitive child.”  Max gently pushes Liz up against the wall.  He leans over her, resting an arm above her head as he looks into her eyes.  Suddenly, he is lost in the depths of her dark orbs.  He gently touches the top of her head with his fingers.

Liz holds her breath as Max’s face moves in closer.  She suddenly licks her lips in anticipation of his kiss.  Max groans, as his mouth possesses hers.  He moves a knee gently between her legs.  As Liz sucks his tongue deeply into her mouth, Max presses his thigh up into her heat.  In response, Liz raises one leg and wraps it around Max’s waist, pulling him closer still.  Max’s tongue and thigh move into Liz with the same rhythm, making her moan and shake with passion.

“Max…Liz…”

Max begins to trail hot kisses down her neck.  Liz gasps, reeling in the heat of his lips and the feel of his breath on her.  Desire shoots to her core and her body demands release, release that only Max can give.  Max feels the same as he caresses his other hand down her rear end to lift her other leg around him.

“Max…Liz…what’s it going to take for you two to respond and come up for air?”

Through the sexual haze, Max registers Michael’s voice, frustrated beyond belief as he rests his forehead on Liz’s shoulder.  Liz, too, feels the intense frustration and removes her leg that is still wrapped around Max.  They stand together breathing deeply, trying to pull themselves together. 

After a minute, Liz whispers sadly.  “He hasn’t changed either.”

Michael walks over to them and grabs Liz’s arm.  “Come on, we need to talk.”

Liz’s legs feel like jelly as Michael pulls her away from Max.  She looks back at Max still leaning against the wall. As she’s pulled down the hallway by Michael, she briefly smiles when she notices Max gently hitting his head against the wall a few times.

Downstairs Alex, Isabel and Maria expectantly look at the door.  When Michael drags Liz into the room and pushes her into a chair, Liz glares at him. 

Isabel looks concerned. “Where’s Max?”

“Don’t worry about him, Is.” Michael assures her as he walks over to sit on the edge of the chair that Maria is curled on.  “He needs a moment to collect himself.”

With that, Max enters the room, arms folded across his chest and glares at Michael.  He then walks over to Liz.

“Don’t even think about sitting with her.”  Michael warns.

“Save it, Michael.” Max warns in return.  He then smiles devilishly at Liz and tugs on her hands.  Liz stands up.  He sits on the chair then pulls Liz on his lap to get comfortable.  He gently whispers in her ear.  “Hold on to the thoughts of a few minutes ago.  Let’s end this discussion quickly.”  Liz smiles and nods in response.

“So tell us Liz.  What does Nasedo know and when was the last time you met with him?”   Michael inquires.

“It’s really not that big of a deal.”  Liz begins.

“It most certainly is.  Especially since you never told Alex and Maria.”  Isabel says.

Max tries to protect Liz as much as possible, knowing she would never intentionally withhold information, gently squeezes her arms.  “Liz why don’t you just tell us why and when Nasedo contacted you.  Michael and I can then figure out if he means any harm.”

Liz feels reassured by Max’s words and tries to explain.  “The first time he contacted me was when I was about 5 weeks pregnant.  It’s as if he psychically knew I was pregnant.  No one knew at that point except me.  I never said anything to anyone because he only came to me in my dreams, as far as I could tell.”

Liz pauses as she looks around the room at the expectant faces.  Unable to meet Max’s gaze, she continues.  “In my dreams he came and said he knew that I was pregnant and would do what he could to protect me and the baby while Max was gone.  When he sensed my fear, he said he would never come to me in person because he knew it would bring me more danger, but he would stay in contact with me through my dreams.  Looking back, I laugh at his first offer to help.  But back then, he terrified me more than words can express.”

Max gently took her face in his hand and forced her to look at him.  “What do you mean, Liz?  What did he offer to do?”

Liz gently smiles at Max. “He offered to do some shape-shifting of Matthew.”  As Max sucks in his breath, Liz is swift to reassure.  “I immediately told him no.  He said that he could change our child’s appearance so that he didn’t look like you and maybe our child would be safer.  I explained that I would only have peace if my child did indeed look something like his father.  He dropped the subject, assuring me that he would do nothing that I didn’t agree to first.”

“Whoa, that would have been too weird.”  Maria says.  “I’m kind of glad you didn’t tell me, it would have freaked me out completely.”

“There was nothing you could have done anyway, Maria.  It was best for everyone that I said nothing.”  Liz explained.

“So, Liz, how often did this happen?”  Michael asks.  “And are you sure he never made direct contact with you.”

“Well, Nasedo seemed to do check-ins with me, oh, maybe once a month.  Sometimes it was every other month.  He wasn’t very consistent and it seemed different each time.   You see, he was always shape-shifting, presenting images of difference faces each time he came to my dreams.  I just know it didn’t bother me after the first few times.  As to face-to-face contact I don’t really know, but there was one time that I sensed he was present.”  Liz explained.

“What do you mean, Liz?”  Max quietly asked.

Liz looks into Max’s eyes and smiles.  “Well, Matthew was about 18 months old and we were playing in the park.  As he was toddling around a grassy area, two boys of about 11 years were playing with a baseball and bat.  Suddenly the bat went flying out of one of the boy’s hands and was headed directly toward Matthew.  I was about 10 yards away and knew I couldn’t stop it, even as I ran toward Matthew to try.  All of a sudden, the bat went flying in the opposite direction and fell to the ground.  Matthew wasn’t harmed.  I looked around and noticed another boy about the same age with one hand stretched out in front of him.  We made eye contact.  He nodded his head and walked away.  That was it and I don’t know for certain if it really was Nasedo.  It just felt like it.”

Isabel seemed just as curious as Max and Michael, but in a different way.  “Liz, when was the last time he contacted you and…did he ever contact Matthew?”

Liz sensing Isabel’s anxiety is quick to assure her. “The last time he contacted me was about two months ago.  I wasn’t certain what he meant at the time, speaking to me cryptically, as he seemed to always do.  Now it makes sense.  At the time, he told me he probably wouldn’t be coming back.  He had other things to attend to.  And, no Isabel, Nasedo never visited Matthew.  In fact, he assured me that he never would.”  When Isabel looked at her surprised Liz clarified her comment.  “I pointedly questioned him the first time he came into my dreams.  I told him that he had to stay away from my child.  And he promised he would.  If there’s one thing I’ve learned about Nasedo, he won’t harm any of you, or your offspring.”

Max hugs Liz closely in his arms.  “That’s good enough for me.  Good night everyone.”

“Max wait a minute, don’t you think we need to try to contact him and find out how he knows so much?”  Michael demands. 

Max is looking at Liz and gently blows some air toward her neck, which is unnoticed by everyone but Liz.  Liz scratches the tickle at her neck, but avoids looking at Max. 

Michael tries again.  “Max, come on.  Aren’t you the least bit interested in knowing what he knows?   Why did he tell Liz he wasn’t coming back?  He knew we were returning, didn’t he?  He must know more about what’s going to happen to your son, about our future.  Don’t you want to know why your son has powers?”

“No, actually I don’t, Michael.”  Max says quietly.  He again breathes on Liz’s neck, but this time he gets a nudge in the chest from her elbow.  He blows air on her neck again. 

Liz finally turns in his arms and looks him in the eye.  Noticing a forced look of innocence on his face, Liz laughs in spite of herself.

Noticing that Michael seems more frustrated with the lack of information and angrier still at Max’s lack of interest, Alex steps in.  “I’m thinking that you really don’t have anything to worry about.  Listen, Liz, Maria and I went through a lot together, while you were gone.  Nothing happened.  Trust what Liz says, Michael.   And I sense that Max has no interest in finding out more.  If it’s something you feel the need to do, then by all means, do it.  I’m sure we’ll all support you.  I just don’t think you can expect everyone else to share your interest.”

“So right you are, Alex.”  Max says.  “You always were supportive of all of us, ever the mediator trying to appease us all.  Thank you for that.  Michael, I do support whatever it is you need to do.  Just don’t expect me to join you.  I think that what I have come to realize is that I don’t need to go out looking for more information.  In all the time we’ve been gone, what I wanted more than anything was to return to Liz.  I’m back and I’m staying.  The questions that come upon me, and the answers that I seek will be with Liz by my side.  And as far as Matthew’s powers go, sometimes there are things in life that are unexplainable.  I’m trusting in God…and in Liz’s and my love for each other on this one.  We’ll figure it out as a family.  It’s what I want more than anything.”  Max then stands up with Liz in his arms and walks out of the room.

Epilogue:

In the evening, 3 weeks later

Liz is lying on a lounge chair on the balcony with her journal lying in her lap.

There are times in life when you have a need to write down the thoughts and feelings.  There’s something about the need to chronicle your thoughts as a means to make sense of chaos.  And sometimes, it no longer is necessary.  That each day can be faced for what it is, no longer needing to analyze the past for answers.   I have so much to cherish in my life with those who mean the world to me.  My comfort is in my past, present and future with Max.

Liz looks up to the sky and smiles.  No need to wander there anymore as she turns her head to look through the other set of French doors, into Matthew’s bedroom.  As she watches, Max and Matthew are reading a stack of about 10 books.  She smiles.  Max hasn’t figured out that Matthew will suggest as many as 20 books just to stay awake.  And Max, so patient, seems to love every minute of it.

As the books are put away by Max, Liz watches Matthew run out of his room and enters their bedroom.  “Mommy, Mommy!”  Matthew says excitedly.  “It’s time for my night time song.  Please come in to my room.  Daddy said he would sing it this time if you dance with him.”

Liz laughs as Matthew tugs on her wrist.  She puts down her journal, stands and holds Matthew’s hand as they walk into Liz and Max’s bedroom.  Suddenly, Liz feels the head rush, her mind is spinning and she feels like she is floating in the air.  Everything is going in slow motion -   Matthew’s laugh, her movements and then all is black.

Matthew screams and Max enters the room to see Liz lying on the floor in a dead faint.  He goes to her side and notices that her face is white and her breathing shallow.

Max takes a deep breath to calm down and turns to Matthew.  “What happened sweet heart?”

Matthew is crying, choking on his sobs.  “I don’t know, Daddy.  She was laughing and then she fell on the floor asleep.”

Max touches Matthew’s cheek. “It’s okay sweetie.  Mommy will be okay, please don’t cry.”  Internally, Max hopes he is right, but he doesn’t want to scare Matthew.  Max gently lifts Liz in his arms and carries her to their bed.  Matthew sits on the bed next to her while Max gets a wet washcloth and a glass of water from the bathroom.  He places the washcloth on her face.  “Liz, Liz, please wake up.”

Liz slowly opens her eyes and tries to focus, but everything is a blur.  Everything gets dark again as a cool cloth is gently brushed across her face.  When it is removed, she begins to see Max’s face come in to focus and she weakly smiles.  She hears Matthew crying and turns her head toward him.  She finds him kneeling on her other side and she touches his leg and gently squeezes.

Max looks at her so concerned. “Liz what happened?  Are you okay?”

“Water.”  Liz says.

Max gently props Liz up against his shoulder and holds the glass of water to her mouth.  As she begins to sip, Max offers advice.  “Liz, not too fast, slow down.”

When she’s done, Liz looks at him tenderly and says,  “Thank you.  I feel better.”

“What happened, sweetheart?”  Max asks as he puts the glass down on the night stand.

“Max, I’m fine.”  Liz assures him. “I just fainted.”

“I know that, but why?”  Max questions.  “Has this ever happened before?”

Liz looks from Max to Matthew then back again to Max. “Yes it has.  When I was pregnant with Matthew.”

Max looks at Matthew then back to Liz. “Okay, but we need to figure out why you fainted just now.  I need to know you’re fine.”

Liz looks quizzically at Max and smiles at him.  “Ahh, Max.  I fainted when I was pregnant before.  I’d say I fainted just now for the same reason.”

“Oh.”  Max says then pauses.  He silently looks into her eyes.  When she smiles again it finally registers for him.  “Oh, you’re…you mean…you’re pregnant?”

Liz laughs when she sees his blush.  Max looks at her with tears in his eyes, which prompts Liz’s eyes to well up.  Max leans down and kisses her softly on the lips.  When he pulls back he laughs loudly, making Matthew laugh, too. 

“Daddy, you’re so funny.”  Matthew giggles.

Max sits up and slowly unbuttons Liz’s jeans and pulls them off of her belly.  He gently caresses her flat stomach, much in awe of this miracle. He turns to Matthew and asks, “So, do you think we’re going to have an adorable little brother for you to play with?”

Matthew looks at his daddy, then to his mommy from her face to her stomach.  He then reaches down and places his hands on her stomach right next to his father’s hand.  He pauses and then looks at Max and says, “No, I’m not going to have a brother.”

Max smiles broadly, looks from Liz to Matthew and comments. “So, you’re going to have a baby sister?”

Matthew looks at both parents then says, “No.”  At their surprised expressions, Matthew takes his hands away from Liz’s stomach and puts his hands together in his lap.  After concentrating on putting his fingers together, he holds up a hand with a proud, happy expression on his face and announces.  “I’m going to have two sisters!” 

Liz and Max stare at Matthew’s two fingers standing away from his fist.  They are both speechless and wide-eyed.  Matthew puts his hand down and shyly looks from one parent to the other, uncertain that he did the right thing. 

Max is first to respond as he gently leans over Liz to kiss Matthew on both cheeks.  Matthew smiles at his daddy then looks to his mommy.  At her soft, tearful and loving glance, Matthew lays his head down on her arm.  He feels the security of their love for him.

Max then leans down and kisses Liz’s smooth stomach, not once, but twice.  He leaves one hand on her stomach, gently caressing it.  Before Liz knows it, Max’s face is just inches from hers, staring at her with his unique intensity…for her, only her.  His other hand comes up and his fingers entwine in her hair while his palm rests on her cheek. They look softly into each other’s eyes, making a connection like they always have, but with a different, utterly mystical knowledge that is a testament to their intense and enduring love and desire for each other.  They are two halves of one whole…soul mates.  They smile with tears of enduring promise in their eyes, only for each other…always for each other.   Not quite trusting their ability to speak, they knowingly smile…and together whisper, “This is the Greatness.”

********************************  THE END  *********************************

Okay, so if you don’t know this great Paul Simon tune, here are the words. 

St. Judy’s Comet

Oh, little sleepy boy

Do you know what time it is

Well the hour of your bedtime’s

Long been past

‘N though I know you’re fighting it

I can tell when you rub your eyes

That you’re fading fast

Won’t you run come see St. Judy’s Comet

Roll across the sky

Leave a spray of diamonds in its wake

I long to see St. Judy’s Comet Sparkle

In your eyes

When you awake

Little boy, won’t you lay your body down

Little boy, little boy won’t you close your

Weary eyes

Ain’t nothing flashing but the fireflies.

Well I sang it once

I sang it twice

I’m gonna sing it three times more

Gonna sing till your resistance is overcome

‘Cause if I can’t sing my boy to sleep

Well it makes your famous daddy

Look so dumb

Oh, little sleepy boy

Do you know what time it is

The hour of your bedtime’s long been past

Though I know you’re fighting it

I can tell when you rub your eyes

That you’re fading fast

The Name Game sequel to Enduring Promises