Turning Points

Summary: Beginning chapter of a three part trilogy, my thoughts about what happens to the group after high school graduation – main focus on Max/Liz shifting their relationship. This fanfic covers a great deal of time. Get ready, it’s a looooong fic. Please follow this chapter to Sacrifices and the culmination in Enduring Promises.

Dedication: To Parrothead and CityGirl who helped me come out from behind the tree! And to any dreamer who defined a Max for the DDD, the flashback is for you!

Journal entry: June 2002

I’m Liz Parker, West Roswell High graduate with my whole life ahead of me. Part of me is afraid to grow up, wanting to remain in the shelter of my current existence. But another part of me wants to break way from it all and face new challenges, new experiences.

It’s been more than two and a half years since Max Evans changed my life in an instant. A lot has happened, but I would not change any part of it. I still have those intense feelings for Max, and I know that they are reciprocated. Yet, we still struggle to decide how far we should or should not go with our relationship. Despite mutual attraction and ambivalence, we have the desire to be together in every sense of the word. Our relationship has been like a roller coaster at times, but I’ve loved every peak and valley of the ride.

Since high school graduation the relationships between my friends and me continue to be riddled with challenges.

Maria and Michael continue to keep each other guessing. How they initially made their recent move is unknown, however they moved forward in their relationship – literally moving in together. I guess none of us were surprised by this decision, especially since Michael has been on his own for a few years. Maria has been such a rock for Michael, and I think in his own way, he knows and appreciates everything she has done for him. As Maria once told me, no one – not even someone in another galaxy - could ever put up with Michael’s moods like she does.

Surprisingly, Mrs. Deluca took no issues with Maria’s decision to move in with Michael two months ago. In fact, she encouraged Maria to follow her heart on this one. I guess the experience of marriage to a man that took off when Maria was a baby turned Mrs. Deluca into a cynic – marriage did not equal commitment in her situation. Nonetheless, she supports the relationship – seeing Michael as an integral part of their family.

Michael seems more at ease, yet still highly temperamental. The biggest change in Michael is that he smiles a lot more than he used to. This has given him the ability to master his powers, having more and stronger visions than he used to – however, he is still looking for the answers to his past. We all contribute the positive changes in his behavior to Maria’s commitment to put up with him.

Since she became more “real” toward Maria and me, Isabel has shown a side of herself over time as has endeared herself in my heart. She is more open about how much she cares for Alex, actually is now dating him, but is cautious about getting too romantically involved – reminiscent of Max’s attitude. She’s gradually become more accepting of Max and me, which means a lot.

Alex hasn’t changed a bit. He still enjoys being with and talking to Isabel. Alex’s altruistic sense of compassion and caring truly amaze me. The one thing about Alex is, he is so invested in supporting and helping Isabel find the answers to her, Max and Michael’s past – something Maria and I struggle with. Where Alex would take them home if he could, Maria would rather avoid the issue altogether – living her intense life of denial that they are a whole different species, as long as she has Michael by her side. I can at least acknowledge that Max and the others need to find the answers. But for myself, I don’t know if I could ever let Max Evans go. I mean, he means everything to me. Things are still unsettled and unfinished between us.

But changes are going to occur, of that I am sure. Max and I have finally decided to take our relationship to the place where we both have desired. It has been a topic we have discussed for almost three years, without resolution. But, now, it just feels right. I don’t know if it’s because Max finally sees that Isabel is seriously dating Alex or that Michael seems more grounded with Maria by his side, he thinks it’s finally okay for us. I don’t really care the reason, I just know it’s going to happen tonight and I can’t be more ecstatic!

It’s perfect really, Max’s parents are away for tonight and all of tomorrow. Isabel went with her parents to do some shopping for a big date with Alex tomorrow evening. My parents left yesterday morning for a two-month backpacking trip around Europe – sometimes I wish they would grow up, but I love them for this spontaneous trip without me. Dad is really accepting of Max and me together. Mom, well, she’s still not over the time we took off in 10^th grade so still reserves judgement. At least she doesn’t try to force me converse with her about Max. I just wish I didn’t have to work this afternoon at the Crashdown. I’d rather be mentally preparing myself for the most important experience in Max’s and my relationship. Then again, I think we’ve thought about it so much that we are definitely more than ready….

Maria is cleaning up in the back, putting things away. Liz is at the cash register, tallying receipts and cash when the front door opens. The bell ringing on the door alerts Liz. “Sorry, but we’re closing and the cook is gone for the evening,” Liz says without looking up.

Her heart skips a beat at the sound of that deep voice, skipping two beats with that intense look in his eyes. “Sure,” she said. “What would you like?”

Max sits at the counter directly in front of Liz and pulls open a menu. He peruses the menu. “Hmmm, I can’t really decide…what do you recommend?”

Liz walks around the counter and stands on the ledge so that she is eye-to-eye with Max. “Maybe I can help.” She offers as she peers over his shoulder. Max smiles as he looks at Liz out of the corner of his eye and takes a deep breath, inhaling her sweetness. This gives her all the encouragement she needs to lean into his arm and whisper into his ear. “Well, I highly recommend the ‘Crazed Earthgirl Cupcake’ – on the house, of course.”

Liz sees goosebumps on Max’s neck and notices the same when she looks down at his arm that she is leaning against. He glances at the menu, then looks back at Liz with a smile. He then leans toward her ear, places a feather-light kiss below it then whispers. “But I don’t see that particular dessert on the menu. Can you tell me something about it?”

Shivering from his touch, Liz places her arms around Max’s shoulders and explains, “Crazed Earthgirl Cupcake is tonight’s special for you, and you alone – sweetness and passion rolled up together.”

Max swivels his stool and places his arms around Liz’s waist while pulling her close between his legs and says, “Sounds decadent and irresistible. May I please have the one, and only beautiful ‘Crazed Earthgirl Cupcake?’ And make that to go, please.”

“Impeccable manners, but can you save it for later, Maximillian?” Liz jumped, almost falling off the ledge if Max had not held her, at the first sound of Michael’s voice.

To herself, Liz thought, ‘now why did I not hear the bell that time? Max has the uncanny ability to make me tune out everything but him.’ Liz gives Max an accusing, but soft glare.

Liz moves her hands to the sides of his face and gently remarks. “You made me forget where we were.” His lips, so close to hers, are irresistible and she can’t help but be drawn toward him…

Trying to get her thoughts in place, Liz moves away from Max, mumbling under her breath to herself. “You are such an addiction.”

Before she can completely move away, Max grabs Liz’s hand and says. “The feeling is mutual.”

“I just think I’ll go let Maria know you’re here before I embarrass myself further.” Liz attempts to shrug off Max’s touch.

Max tugs on Liz’s fingers and reminds her, “Don’t forget my ‘Crazed Earthgirl’ to go, ASAP.” Liz laughs as she walks to the back to get Maria.

“Hey, Michael, I think the terminology is irrelevant at this point.” Max says in a frustrated tone

There is an awkward silence in the café as Michael and Max wait. Max is lost in thoughts of Liz. Michael is struggling with a wave of guilt for trying to convince Max to not get emotionally involved with Liz for such a long time.

Michael sits down next to Max and breaks the silence. “So, you’re making it official? What made you finally decide to be with Liz?”

Max sits thoughtfully, looking down at the counter, anticipating another Michael argument. He sighs, then looks at Michael. “I have been fighting these feelings for Liz far too long. We’ve done everything to rationalize why it should not be. I know that someday we may leave here, but who knows when that will be? Not having the answers to our past, or my relationship with Liz overwhelms me. I need stability and contentment with one of my desires…to be with Liz, to really know what can happen between us – this not knowing is killing me. Liz has made it clear to me that she does not care what the future holds, she just wants us to be together – she’s convinced it’s the only thing that will truly make her happy. And I’m through denying to myself that I completely agree with her. We’ve lived here for as long as we can remember, not knowing our past and I get by. But to be with Liz is everything to me – I need to know…with her. It’s important to both of us. We desire to be together, and the timing is perfect.”

Michael does not know what to say in response to Max’s impassioned speech. He thinks about how important the stability of Maria’s presence has become to him, despite the constant uncertainty about his past. Knowing Maria is there for him, as a constant has been surprisingly reassuring. Should he still begrudge the same for Max? Not one of his strong points, but he empathizes with Max’s struggle and nods his head.

Liz and Maria are heard laughing in the back together. Max and Michael look at each other and smile. Max says, “Let’s face it, all we want to do is make them happy. Liz sees how happy you have made Maria. I want to do the same for Liz. Don’t get me wrong, though. I have some very selfish reasons for this, too.”

Michael laughs and comments. “Maximillian, you will not regret this.” On a serious note he continues. “Buddy, I’m… sorry…for all the times that I pressured you to not get overly involved – repeatedly telling you not to complicate matters. Wow, was I a hypocrite, or what?”

Max sighs. “Your situation with Maria is totally different. You didn’t risk everything saving her life almost three years ago in front of a café full of people. No one suspected you.” At Michael’s doubtful look, Max admits. “Well, not unless by association all these years.” In attempt to lighten the mood, Max continues. “If I only had a dime for every time you or Maria interrupted Liz and me. I think I’d be able to buy Liz and myself passage out of this universe.”

Liz and Maria, in regular clothes, return to the front of the cafe. Maria flashes Michael a wide grin and states. “So, why don’t you help me close up so Max can go devour the dessert of his dreams?”

Max and Liz blush, but they take each other’s hand and make a hasty retreat out the door before Michael and Maria can change their minds. Michael gives Maria a knowing look.

Liz and Max enter his bedroom quietly. They haven’t said a word since the cafe. Max leans against the door taking off his shoes, all the while looking at Liz’s hair. Liz takes a few steps in and looks around the room. Max approaches her from behind, touches her hair with his fingertips, breathes in her soft scent then places his hands on her shoulders.

“You know, I feel like I am seeing your room for the first time. “ Liz states. “I was always so nervous when I was in here before, too afraid to let my mind think about what I really wanted to be here doing with you.”

Max places his arms around Liz while he drops his chin on her shoulder. “Yeah, I know what you mean. Every time you were here, I had to keep blocking my thoughts from forming certain images. And I tell you, it has not been easy.”

After slipping off her shoes, Liz turns in Max’s arms and places her hands around his neck. “This is the most important night of my life, Max Evans. It’s hard for me to express how much it means to me…your coming around to my nagging insistence that we belong together.”

Max gives her a penetrating, soulful look. “You did not nag me into agreeing with you. Liz, I have been fighting my feelings and….urges for you for so long. It’s been overwhelming me, night after night thinking of your being here with me. Ask Is, I have spent many nights falling asleep in front of the TV in the living room, just so I did not have to come to bed with only your image. You mean everything to me, Liz.”

Max slowly lowers his head as Liz lifts hers to him. Their lips meet half way, softly touching. Both feel instantaneous love and acceptance of what is to come, the feelings grow as the kiss intensifies and deepens. After what seems forever, Max slowly lifts his head, telling himself he needs to slow down for Liz’s sake. He opens his eyes. It takes Liz a few moments to open her eyes as her body slowly sways into Max. The passion reflected in her eyes tells him to stop thinking and just feel.

As they gaze into each other’s eyes, Max asks. “May I…?” His hands go to the bottom of her sweater. Liz ever so slightly nods her head. After slowly lifting her sweater over her head, Max touches her stomach where he first touched, healed and connected with her. “The moment I saw your blood was the most terrifying moment of my life….” Max’s voice cracks.

Liz touches his cheek, sensing his fear, willing him to look her in the eyes. “But it was also the most profound moment in both our lives, Max. My life meant nothing until the moment you healed me. I am still humbled by your heroic act – risking all, for just me.”

“Risking all? Just you?” Max questioned. “Liz, there was no choice. Since that day, I have always been humbled by your faith and trust in me….despite neither one of us knowing where I am from or what I really am.” Max turns his head away, uncertain about bringing up that reality again.

“Max, it’s true we do not know where you are from, or what you really are, but it’s the ‘who’ that I love with all my heart. Your unwavering strength and compassion, mixed with a little shy and boyish charm, yet every bit an exciting man who turns my insides into pure mush. My love and perceptions of who you are will never change. This is all that is important.” Liz reassures him as she starts to unbutton his shirt. Starting at the top, she opens the first button and kisses the spot of his exposed chest. She opens the second button, kissing him again. As she unbuttons each one, Max’s breathing becomes increasingly shallow. He draws in a deep breath and contracts his stomach muscles as Liz kisses his stomach. Liz smiles and looks up into his eyes.

Max grasps her shoulders, pulling her up to him and whispers. “You’re right. Nothing else matters but this.” He envelops her in his embrace and kisses her deeply and tenderly. His hands gently caress her back, making a quick removal of her bra.

Max smiles in response. “When and with whom? It’s called ‘my powers can come in handy when I’ve never done something before’.”

“So you have every advantage over me?” Liz quips then seriously adds. “I am yours…always.” And they begin to kiss again.

Max touches Liz gently on her breast. Liz’s own breath is shallow now and she looks up into the love showing on his face. Max’s eyes follow his hands as he gently caresses Liz, smiles at the goosebumps trailing along her flesh. “Liz, you are so beautiful. I could never have imagined this…”

As they look into each other’s eyes, they are both awed by the feelings they evoke in each other. They think at the same moment. ‘How could I have possibly done without this, without you? Do you realize what you are doing to me?’ They smile, somehow able to see, no, feel each other’s thoughts.

At the same moment, they reach for each other’s jeans button and fly. Max first removes Liz’s jeans and underwear. Liz then does the same to Max. They embrace with a heat not ever felt or touched before. Not surprising, their bodies meld together, a perfect fit. Max gently lays Liz on the bed then covers her with his body. They touch everywhere, mutually curious about the secrets of each other’s bodies. Liz gasps, and Max’s touch reassures her that all is right. When he finally begins to enter her, they look into each other’s soul, a connection is made like no other…..

Max is overwhelmed by the love he sees and feels in Liz, encouraging him to allow their bodies to come together as one. Deeply, nothing has ever felt so right for either of them. The connection intensifies as they come together in a rhythm as old as time. No longer worried if their differences would harm them, they feel only power in being one. Each thrust of their bodies shows a flash of memories: the first notice of each other in the third grade, the first eye contact, the healing, the first kiss…The first explosive coming…The intensity of feelings, the love, passion and trust is overwhelming, humbling and reassuring. Together, they go to the stars. This turning point, irrevocably changes their lives, never to be undone by anyone or anything.

In the afterglow, they lie holding each other. No words are necessary….both are at peace.

As Liz lies sleeping in his arms, Max watches her, feels her breath on his shoulder. He ponders to himself. ‘I can’t believe I was able to hold out so long. What was I thinking? This is perfect, you are perfect. Liz, you are everything to me.’

Liz suddenly awakens and kisses his neck, sensing Max’s thoughts and feelings. “You are everything to me, too, Max.”

They smile at each other, kiss and come together again, as one. If at all possible, more beautiful than previously. The same, but different in that they are both content that this is as is should be…forever. Afterwards they lie there holding and stroking each other, contemplating the beauty of their shared love.

Suddenly, Max feels a flash of light, then darkness followed by extreme sadness.

“Max, what? Are you having regrets?” Liz looks up at him, not sure what she felt, but certain that there was a sudden change within him.

“I don’t know Liz.” At her crushed look, he lifts her chin and looks into her eyes and says. “No, I do not have regrets…never with you. Not after what we have shared. But, I felt something, had a flash or vision of some sort. I just don’t know what it means.”

Liz kisses him. “I felt whatever it was go through you. Something is going to happen, Max. I’m scared.”

Holding her close, Max shivers. “I’m scared, too. We’ll face it together, you know that, don’t you?” Liz nods and they stare into each other’s eyes for what seems like an eternity.

Suddenly the ring of Max’s phone breaks the spell. He lifts up the telephone, “Michael, what happened?”

In an excited voice Michael replies. “So you felt it too? Max they are coming for us! Finally. Later on tomorrow night, no, it’s early morning right now - so they are coming tonight, yeah tonight…..Oh, God. Your night with Liz. I’m sorry. This could have waited until the morning. I am so sorry Max. I’ll see you at, say, 10 am at your place?” With that, Michael hung up the phone on Max, not waiting or receiving a reply.

“A question for a question? Max, how could I not know? I sensed it, too. For a split second, I wanted to ignore what I felt in you, but it is there. It has always been there. The time has come for you to leave….”

Liz comes to Max, covers his body with hers. They both feel each other’s desperation, urgency and need to be together, to feel whole with each other. Holding hands and staring into each other’s eyes, they make love again, a different intensity, but with the love and passion they have always felt for each other.

Max and Liz quietly and slowly dress each other, touching as though to memorize every detail of each other. Liz is wearing one of Max’s T-shirts, unwilling to let a small, physical, albeit material, piece of him separate from her right now.

“Max, so Michael says it’s tonight. For my own selfish purposes…can we spend as much time together as possible? I know it’s asking a lot of you, but I want to make the most of this day. To continue to have a little more happiness together. Is it okay?”

Max, surprised by the question, hugs Liz fiercely. “It’s what I want, too. You don’t have to ask. The last thing I want is for you to leave my side…”

Max smiles, holds her hand as they begin to walk out the door. “Your wish is my command…” Max and Liz watch each other, rather than where they are walking, Max bumps into someone. “Mom?!” He stammers, then blushes.

Liz also stops dead in her tracks, smiles with a blush and says quietly. “Hello, Mrs. Evans.”

“Mom, you’re back early. (To himself. ‘Good Max, state the obvious.’) It’s not what you think, I mean….Actually it is what you think.” Max attempts to explain as honestly as possible. Liz groans and hides her face in Max’s chest.

“Mom, is Max awake yet? I really need to talk to him about something.” Isabel is heard as she runs up the stairs. Spying him, “We need to talk… oh, my…about a lot of things, I suppose.”

“Well, I guess we all should talk. Or not. I’m not sure. I’m not…Phillip?” Mrs. Evans calls down the stairs to her husband.

Everyone looks at each other. Liz and Max in total embarrassment, Mrs. Evans the same, but more surprised. And Isabel, well being Isabel, just glares. However, underneath the glare, concern shines in her eyes. Liz, sensing Isabel eyes on her looks up and actually wonders to herself. ‘Concern, for me? No, not Is. She must have had the vision, too. It’s the vision that she’s concerned about, yeah, that’s it.’

Max takes control of the situation. “Let’s go downstairs, we all do need to talk. Michael should be here soon.”

“Let’s go downstairs, Mom. Give Max and Liz a few minutes…to compose themselves. There is a lot to be said.” Isabel grabs her mothers arm and gently nudges her downstairs to gather with their father in the living room.

“Explain to them?! I am NOT telling them what we have done, Max. No, I will not help you. Why do they need to know anyway? From the looks on their faces, I’m sure they figured it out already.” Liz is insistent.

Max flashes Liz a lop-sided grin then gives her a calming look. “Relax, I meant about who Isabel, Michael and I are and what is about to happen. They need to know.”

“Oh, okay. No problem. Sorry, but I’m just a little self-absorbed right now…. Of course, I will help you.” A flustered Liz begins to calm down.

“Liz, the last thing you ever need to do is apologize to me. I’m kind of glad I have you wrapped up in thoughts of you and me. It’s nice, no great, actually.” Max’s look reassures Liz. “Let’s get this over with, I want to spend as much time alone with you as I possibly can.” They kiss each other tenderly, then head down the stairs together.

Mr. and Mrs. Evans sit on the sofa, with Isabel sitting next to her mother. Michael stands near the door, holding Maria’s hand. Max sits on the arm of the chair where Liz sits. He looks at her, amazed at her inner strength and poise. He can’t stop touching her arm, her hair, and her cheek as he gently smiles into her eyes. Liz looks at him with adoration.

Max sighs, smiles at Liz’s blush and takes her hand in his and reassuringly squeezes it. He then turns and look at the others. He, Isabel and Michael look to each other, uncertain where to begin.

Mrs. Evans looks around the room and breaks the silence. “We have seen Max, Isabel and Michael through a lot over the years. In fact, we breathed sighs of relief when you brought Liz, Maria and Alex into your close-nit circle. You are turning into fine, young adults. But something has happened. What is it? We love you all and are here to help, no matter what.”

Mr. Evan echoes his wife’s sentiments. “Yes, whatever it is that you are all concerned about…we are here for you.”

“And we have always appreciated that.” Max begins. “You don’t know how much your taking us in, helping and raising us has meant to us. But the time has come, you need to know….it’s about our past.”

“Yes, I agree with Max.” Isabel says. “You mean everything to us. But there is more to us than you know…”

“What they are trying to say is this: it is time for the three of us to leave. Our people are coming for us. We’re not from around here. We have to find the truth to our past.” Michael states with the assurance that he has never exhibited before in front of the Evans’.

Maria joins in. “They are different, they are leaving and we have to accept it.” It seems as though she is trying to convince herself more than anyone else. Michael looks down and squeezes her hand.

Liz quietly shares her thought. “We love them, want them to be happy and at peace with who they are.”

Mr. and Mrs. Evans look from each other to all the faces around them. Mrs. Evans is the first to respond. “We’ve always known you would leave one day. We always sensed that you were different and yes, we do love you.”

“Mom, Dad, do you understand what we are saying?” Max’s uncertainty and insecurity are apparent.

Mr. Evans, the voice of reason, usually so quiet, speaks up. “Max and Isabel, how could we not know? We found you alone in the desert. Don’t you think we knew it was strange, no one around, no remains of a car – the two of you just walking? All we wanted to do was protect you all these years, so that you would one day be ready to face your past. We just hope we gave you the guidance, strength and love you need to get you home, wherever that may be. Our only regret was that we never waited, or looked to find Michael that night.”

Michael comments with tears in his eyes. “Thank you. Because of you, Max and Isabel always protected me. I’ll never forget what you did for me.”

The Evans’ stand up and pull Isabel, Max and Michael into their warm and supportive embrace.

At the same time, Maria approaches Liz, who stands and they hug each other. ‘Somehow,’ Maria thinks, ‘we’ll find the strength, together, to let them go.’

Liz looks at Maria, being best friends forever, somehow knowing that they will face this turning point together.

That afternoon, after a lunch chalk-full of poignant and funny memories, Max and Liz are on their way to Liz’s home above the Crashdown. They plan to have a quiet dinner alone and spend the rest of the evening together, until Max has to…

“Extremely well. But could you have imagined it differently, Max? They love you, and their love is unconditional. They don’t judge you. They never have. It’s amazing that somehow, they always sensed this, always wanted to protect you.” Liz comments.

Max smiles at Liz as he pulls up to the Crashdown and turns off the car. He looks at her. “Just like you. You have always trusted me, no matter what we went through together…wait here.” Max gets out of the jeep and comes around to Liz’s side and picks her up in his arms.

“What are you doing?” Liz laughs as she places her arms around his shoulders.

“Shhhh, I’m about to indulge myself in some more of my ‘Crazed Earth Girl dessert, which, by the way, nothing compares to.” Max laughs and carries Liz to the front door. When she reaches in her jacket pocket for her keys, Max comments. “No time for that.” He uses his powers to unlock the door. Taking two steps at a time, while carrying Liz, Max runs up to her bedroom.

Liz laughs the entire time. “You move with the speed of a shooting star. You have taken me to heaven.”

“That was my intent, Liz…my love.” As he slowly lets go of her legs, her slight body moves down his. Max quickly removes Liz’s jacket and gives her a quizzical, almost comical look. “You are still wearing that shirt of mine?”

Max gives her a penetrating gaze. “Well, you’re just going to have to let me do it then.” He begins to pull off the shirt and Liz sighs. The playfulness between the two ends as their lips meet. She then pulls off his shirt and places her arms around Max’s shoulders embracing him with all the strength she possesses.

Max feels the trembling of her body and holds her close. He again is humbled by her feelings for him. Such trust….They help each other take off their clothes and then they sit on the bed facing each other, not touching… just looking and feeling.

Liz gifts him with a loving gaze. “You will find a way, because you have to…You have to find the answers to what you really are.”

“Shhh, no promises. Neither of us knows what the future holds. Then again, Max, think of it. If you do come back to me, your uncertainty will be gone. You will know about who and what you are. You will feel whole.” Liz, acting so composed, sighs then reveals her own insecurity. “But there is always the chance that you’ll find your heart’s desire… That you won’t really need to come back here….” Tears well up in her eyes.

Max sees her worst fears, he quickly reassures her. “Liz, you are right, about my needing to know. But leaving you…it is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to face because….you are my heart’s desire. Don’t ever doubt it.”

With tears in her eyes, Liz takes his face in her hands. Max touches her hair, then kisses her deeply. They feel the love, knowing with assurance that their love will be there for each other, over time, over distance…always.

Max then knows with a certainty what he has to do. He places his hand over Liz’s heart. In the same instant, as if she too knows what to do, Liz places her hand over Max’s heart.

“to love…always.” They both say. In that moment, the touching of hearts while looking into each other’s eyes creates the most intense, most profound connection of Max and Liz’s relationship – beyond physical, beyond sexual, even beyond emotional. It is almost spiritual…. Indescribable, but nonetheless through the stars, it is heaven. The exchange of their hearts with the intermingling of their souls as their hands softy glow.

“Liz, why don’t you try to get a little sleep? You must be exhausted.” Max says with a look of concern on his face.

“As hard as it is to believe, Max. I feel wonderful. I just want to spend the last few hours we have together awake.” Liz is adamant, but her eyes, telling a different story, are half-closed.

Max chuckles. “Give in, Liz. I promise I will wake you, we’ll go together to the site.” With a kiss, Liz, trusting Max completely, closes her eyes and falls asleep.

Max thinks to himself. ‘She’s amazing. To think that she feels the way she does for me. How could I have gotten so lucky? I’ve been so fortunate here, with her. I am finally at peace. Morpheus can take me now.’ And with that Max closes his eyes and falls asleep.

Max awakes with a certainty that he will need to leave in two hours time. He looks at the clock, 11:30 pm. Feeling Liz’s body securely held in his arms, he looks down at her. Their bodies are spooned together. He tenderly reaches out and moves her hair back off of her face and kisses her shoulder. Ever so gently, he removes his arm from beneath her, and sits up. Assured that Liz is still asleep, he quietly picks up his shorts, pulls them on and stands up. He looks around her room and approaches her vanity table.

Max can’t help but smile softly as he looks at the picture frame sitting next to her mirror. He picks up the picture, looks at it…and loses himself in the memory.

It was last Christmas, and the ‘gang’ was sitting around the Evans’ family Christmas tree, exchanging gifts. It was a happy time for everyone. A surprising time for Max and Liz, especially when it came to Michael.

At the last minute, Michael handed Liz a rolled up piece of paper, tied with a gold ribbon.

Liz looked from Michael (who looked down at the ground) to Max who was sitting next to her. She wasn’t expecting Michael to give her anything – especially since she had not thought to get him anything, considering how she knew he felt about her. Max just smiled and shrugged his shoulders, encouraging her to open the gift. Liz gently removed the ribbon and opened the paper. She said nothing. Liz looked at Max with tears forming in her eyes then looked at Michael. She looked at the picture again, speechless.

“Well, I thought you needed to see for yourself what you subject all of us to…thought you needed to see how sappy you and Max look at each other.” Michael light-heartedly said.

Liz looked at Michael as a tear falls down her cheek then she looked at Max again. Max returned her soft look, gazing lovingly at her. Max gently brushed the tear from her cheek.

“Okay, so I didn’t quite capture ‘the look’.” Michael said in disgust as he folded his arms across his chest.

Maria punched Michael in the arm. “Merry Christmas?! Did you have to go and ruin it for her by making fun of her? Just what the heck did you draw, some off-the-wall image of Liz and Max…you know, him green and scaly, her, the doe-eyed maiden in distress?! Michael, you are so out of control sometimes! It’s a wonder that I…” Maria stopped her tirade, glared at him and sighed. “I guess I better go comfort her.”

“I’ll go.” Max stated with a gentle firmness. “Maria, relax.” As he passed Michael he further commented. “And Michael, thank you…for everything.”

“Save judgement, Maria until after you see what Michael gave to Liz.” Max suggested as he went after Liz.

“Max, I’m sorry, but did you see what he did? It is amazing. I mean, it is a beautiful charcoal sketch of the two of us looking into each other’s eyes. It’s simple, just our faces in profile, but incredible. Max, am I crazy or could it be that Michael is coming around? That he is beginning to accept us...together?” Liz choked on her tears.

Max placed his arms around her and said. “I think you’re right, on all counts. He really is a good friend. It is a beautiful sketch.” Max removed the tears from her eyes with his kisses. “Now that I have you alone…I wanted to give you my present.” Max handed her a small black velvet box. “Merry Christmas, Liz.”

Liz opened it and found a beautiful platinum locket with a handprint embossed on it. She looked at Max with all the love in her heart. “It’s beautiful. But the handprint, like when you healed me…how?”

Max smiled and whispered. “Custom-made, by Manipulating Molecular Structure Max…yours truly.” When he suggested she open it, she did so and promptly bursts into tears again. “Liz, what is the matter? That was not the response I was hoping for. I thought you might say, ‘gee, Max, it’s beautiful. Thank you.’ Don’t you like it? I know it dulls in comparison to Michael’s gift. There’s an inscription on the back.”

Hearing the uncertainty in his voice, Liz composed herself and apologized. “Max, I’m sorry. I’m just overwhelmed. Both of you have given me tremendously wonderful gifts – I love them both in different ways: Michael’s, for what the sketch symbolizes. And yours, well it’s from you, a piece of you. How can I not love it? Thank you.” Liz looked again at the two pictures inside the locket – one of Max in the third grade and the other, a miniature of his senior picture. Wrapped around both are locks of hair, his hair. Closing it, she looks at the back of the locket and reads the inscription, ‘It was you.’ “I love it, please put it on. I will never take it off.”

After Max placed the necklace on her, Liz looked up into Max’s eyes, a devilish sparkle to her own. “What?” He asked.

“Merry Christmas, Max.” Liz said as she pulled a small box out of her pocket.

He took it and opened it. Inside was a small, black leather billfold, which Liz told him to open. He opened it to find two pictures facing each other: one of Liz in the third grade, the other, her senior portrait. It was uncanny really, but she had locks of her hair braided, then placed around the photographs.

“No, what I think we are, are soul mates…” Max kissed her with all the love in his heart.

When they broke apart he said. “Now don’t you think you owe Michael a thank you?” At her affirmative nod, he commented. “Yeah, and you might consider apologizing to him as well – Maria really laid in to him after you ran out.”

Max smiles at the memory, his grin broadens when he reflects on her promise to never take off the necklace – she never did. Still holding the sketch, Max notices several pictures of him and Liz, plus a few of the others, taped around her mirror. Then something in his own reflection catches his attention and his amazement.

Max’s breath catches in his throat as he makes eye contact with Liz’s reflection. She is standing a few feet behind him, wrapped in a sheet, looking utterly beautiful to him. “No, we still have almost two hours.”

Gently, Max comments. “I’m thinking about some very fond memories, like last Christmas.” She smiles in recall. “Liz, come here, I want to show you something.”

She approaches him, standing close to his side. Max places one arm around her shoulder while he holds the sketch against his chest. He then begins to tug on the sheet that Liz has wrapped over her shoulders.

Liz looks at her reflection with a comical, somewhat shy look – not quite comfortable looking at herself in front of the mirror with Max. But her feelings quickly change, giving herself, then Max, an incredulous look after he pulls the sheet halfway down her arms. To her surprise, over her heart and breast, is a silver handprint – from Max, yet another of his gifts to her.

“So, really and truly, evidence of the fact that you were able to take my heart.” Liz exclaims.

“Yeah….” sighs Max. “But Liz, what is really amazing is….” Then, ever so slowly, he removes the sketch from where it covered his chest. He looks at the awe in Liz’s face as she stares at the small silver handprint – her handprint, on Max’s chest. “I guess the connection was so strong that we really did give our hearts to each other.”

The two lovers turn to each other with tears in their eyes and embrace. Again, no words could express for either one, the love they feel for each other. Words aren’t necessary between them. Feeling is all that matters. Internally, they both thank God for allowing them to find each other, be together to completion and face the coming uncertainty, another turning point – comfort in knowing that their love, their hearts will always belong to each other.

Out in the desert, between two mountains are the following: Michael and Maria, Isabel, Mr. and Mrs. Evans and Max and Liz.

Vastness, darkness, openness…it is all there. And it is time. Time to try to say goodbye to the only life they’ve known. Time to let each other go - for a time, for a space. Sacrificing what is necessary, to become complete, whole. They all know it is necessary and inevitable. The knowing does not make it easy on any one of them.

Michael looks like he is about to be sick. All these years he yearned for this, hoped for it, prayed for it – when he would have sold his soul to the devil for this. He can not seem to stop staring at Maria, can not stop touching her.

Ever the tongue-in-cheek gal that she is, Maria breaks the silence. “So where is it, oh, Visionary One?” She punches Michael in the arm.

“Oww, chill Maria.” Michael lashes back. “It won’t be soon enough for me.” At Maria’s crest-fallen expression, he immediately retracts his statement. “I’m sorry, I just don’t know how to say good-bye, Maria. The ship is actually here, but you can’t see it. The doors will open soon enough, then you will see it. Please don’t rush it…I am going to miss you….I, I…..I love you, Maria.”

With his impassioned speech, Maria promptly burst in to tears, shaking uncontrollably in his arms. They desperately hold on to each other.

Isabel stands with her parents, the only parents she ever knew. “You know, you’ve meant the world to me. Thank you, for everything.”

“Honey, we love you and always will. We’re so proud of how you turned out. We will take heart that we contributed in some small way, to who you have become. We hope your people appreciate you.” Mr. Evans states, expressing that quiet, protective regard for her.

As Isabel thought on what her father said, she realizes that Max’s demeanor - his protectiveness, his concern – it came from Mr. Evans. “Max is fortunate to have picked up your temperament.” She says this as she and her father hug one another. “I love you.”

“Mom….always, mom.” Isabel cries as she embraces her mother, unable to form a coherent thought to express what she feels for this woman.

Mrs. Evans smiles and cries at the same time. “I love you, too sweetheart. I will always take to heart your kindness and love – you have so much to give. Thank you for allowing me to raise you.”

Max reluctantly let go of Liz’s arm, feeling the cold, and approaches the only parents he ever knew. “Mom, Dad.” They hug each other for minutes on end.

“We are so proud of you Max. Trust that you made the right decisions.” Mrs. Evans says as she looks over at Liz.

Max notices where his mother’s eyes wonder. “Please…will you take care of her for me? Until I can come back?”

“Don’t worry, Max. We’ll do whatever it takes. Until we see you again.” Mr. Evans looks at Max with tears in his eyes. All three hug fiercely.

In the meantime, Isabel retreats, and approaches Michael and Maria. “So, Maria, are you going to let me have Michael back? Thanks for taking care of him for me.” With Maria’s glare, Isabel reassures her. “Just kidding. You know, Maria, I am seriously going to miss playing head games with you. I’ll also miss your dreams… they were quite, interesting….”

Maria quickly jumps in. “Nothing Michael, she’s just jealous of my creative subconscious. Yeah, Isabel. I’ll miss you, too.”

Isabel grabs Maria in a genuine hug. Isabel and Maria laugh together before Isabel gives them a quick wink and walks to Liz. Sobering, Isabel tentatively begins to say goodbye. “I know I made things so difficult for you and Max….”

Liz, realizing that Isabel is talking to her, right in front of her, looks up. “Isabel, we both love and care for Max. It was only natural that we were at each other’s throats over him. But, I think, I hope, that our intentions were only good – for Max’s sake. Besides, I needed to envy someone.”

Isabel grabs Liz and hugs her. Laughing, she puts aside her fears that Liz would never forgive her. “I know you really envy me now, because he’s coming with me. But, Liz, don’t doubt it for one moment – Max will be back for you. Truth be told, I have always envied the love that the two of you have for each other.”

“Speaking of love, where is Alex? I know you care for him deeply and I know you had a big date tonight. Where is he? When you got your vision, did you call the date off? What’s up, Is? I know he would want to be here to see you off….he loves you. Of all of us, he was the one that tried so desperately to get you to the place you are now going?” Liz demands answers and does not let up.

Isabel, overwhelmed with the rush of questions, bursts into tears – real tears, tears of pain and regret.

Liz, seeing and feeling horrible for what she questioned tries to make amends. “I’m sorry, Isabel. I didn’t mean to pry. I just know how much Alex cares for you.”

“And I for him. Liz, we did have our big date tonight. It was magical, it was everything I could dream of with him. But I can’t help but feel like I used him. I knew that I was leaving. I know it is so different from what you and Max have, but I think, no I know that I love Alex. And I know that if I had told him, I would have never been able to leave tonight – not after what we just shared.” Isabel says with regret.

Understanding all too well what Isabel was saying Liz nods her head and admits to her internally selfish truths. “If I could, I would take Max away from this in an instant. But I know he needs to find himself.” Liz has tears in her eyes as she lovingly looks at Max who is still hugging his parents.

“Liz, I need your help. I need you to tell Alex, to make him understand. I did it this way because I love him, I could never say goodbye. I’m not strong, like you.” Isabel cries heart-wrenching tears, pleading with her eyes to make Liz understand.

Feeling bad, Liz attempts to reassure her. “Isabel, I’m sorry if you thought I was judging you. I didn’t mean to. I do understand - more than you know. Of course, I will tell Alex, whatever you would like me to say or do.”

Isabel wiped at her tears, which were still streaming down her face. “Please, give this letter to Alex, it explains everything. And Liz, thank you….I really do love you, like a sister. Max will come back for you.”

Liz then began to cry, overwhelmed by the emotion pouring out of Isabel. Sadness for Isabel and Alex set in. But also comfort. “Isabel, I love you, too. Please keep Max safe for me.”

Maria reluctantly pulls away from Michael and prompts him to tell the others goodbye. Michael again thanks the Evans with a hug, telling them he will watch out for Max and Isabel. Would be sure to let the Evans know as soon as Max and Isabel got in to trouble, as he comments with a laugh. “I know that our personalities will go through drastic changes in our other world. I know that I will be a kinder, gentler Michael.”

Mr. and Mrs. Evans smile and hug Michael. Max just rolls his eyes and turns to Maria. “Don’t worry Maria, he won’t change. I don’t think you, or any of us, could tolerate any other kind of Michael.”

“So right you are Max.” Maria laughs. She sobers and hugs Max. “Please take care of him for me. Don’t let him do anything crazy like bungy-jumping from a comet.”

Max laughs, then hugs her in return. “I won’t. Maria, take care of yourself…..and Liz. Watch over her for me. Please. I’m not certain, how I’ll survive without her by my side. But I am comforted knowing that she has you. Please, do this for me?”

Maria reassures Max with a hug that she will take care of Liz. They kiss each other on the cheek.

“Hey, enough of that.” Michael says as he takes Max back to Liz. “Liz, Max, I just wanted to say….I mean, I know that I….I was the one that complicated things, messed things up for the two of you.”

Liz grabs Michael in a fierce hug. “Michael, you are a good friend. Please keep watching out for Max. I love you.”

Michael’s eyes widen as he thinks about Liz’s strength. “I love you, too. I promise to take care of him.” He says with a wink and a hug. “Keep an eye on my girl for me.” Liz smiles in response.

Michael returns to Maria and kisses her passionately. “I know that I was never very good at the connections, but I believe we have one, Maria. My visions though, they only became stronger, because of you. You and your unconditional love. And I would just like to try to give you one thing in return….” He then places his hands on either side of her face and tries to give her a vision.

As Maria takes a deep breath, tears in her eyes, she sees a vision: Michael, looking a little older, but coming back to her, embracing her. She feels the love and is reassured, giving him her love in return. Michael feels it, too, thanking the stars that he could share this with her – until they meet again.

Max and Liz are just staring at each other, longingly – unaware that anyone or anything else exists. They reach for each other’s hands simultaneously. “I love you.”

Max and Liz continue to stare at each other. “Liz, I love you. I promise, I’ll come for you…..”

“Shhhh, Max, no more promises. The promises and memories, especially of the last day are enough to get me through a lifetime.” Liz pleads, trying so hard not to cry. ‘I won’t let him see my sadness, it’s enough to know he feels it.’

‘How will I live without touching her, seeing her?’ Max questions himself. The sadness envelops them both. The sadness from his vision – and they both understand.

Michael grabs Max’s arm and pulls on him. “Let’s go. I know this is hard. Don’t make it harder.”

Isabel grabs Max’s other arm. “Come on, Max. Michael is right. Please. It’s hard enough.”

Max allows them to slowly pull him back. He has no more will of his own. He’s left his heart with Liz.

Liz, unable to look at the pain in Max’s eyes, turns around. Unwilling to let him see her tears as they begin to fall unheedingly down her face, she takes a step away.

The next thing she knows, she feels Max’s strong arms wrapped around her. “Liz, one last thing before I go.” He buries his face in her hair, inhales her scent trying to take it with him, to remember. He turns her to him and kisses the tears and love shining in her eyes. He takes her hand, kisses her palm and places a small piece of paper into it. Closing his hand over hers, he vows. “If you are ever in doubt of me or my intentions toward you, read these words and guard them, with my heart. I’m sorry, I have to do this…. to make this sacrifice…for now. I will come back to you, Liz. I promise.” Max’s eyes are now full of tears, the tears he held in all these years. Tears over his love for Liz trailed down his cheeks, scalding him with sadness.

Liz stands there stunned, not by the depth of his love - for she has always known and felt it - but stunned by this last act, this last promise. Slowly, she takes her empty hand, put it in her pocket and pulls out a piece of paper. As Max did to her, she takes his hand and places a gentle kiss in his palm. She then places the paper from her pocket in his hand and makes her vow. “My soul mate. How often we did similar things for each other. Was it fate, destiny or a constant, unbreakable connection? As you have handed me a promise, I too, hand one to you. If you ever think my feelings will change, please read the words on this paper. I love you, Max Evans. With all my heart – guard it well. And if we are lucky enough to find each other again in these vast galaxies, our hearts will come together again, stronger, for knowing who and what we are to each other – always.”

They embrace, kissing and feeling the heat of their love – no longer do they fear for the future. The love is there and will transcend time and space. Breaking apart, they smile, a knowing, loving smile.

Michael and Isabel are again at Max’s sides. No more words are spoken as the three walk forward. Suddenly, a door opens. Isabel looks at everyone, finally resting her gaze on her Earth parents. Nodding her head, she steps within the door. Michael gives one last look at Maria then steps within as Maria holds her breath. Max, not taking his eyes off of Liz, steps within. As the sound of the door begins to close, Liz turns away, unable to watch.

“LIZ!” Max’s cry of anguish tears through her whole being. Liz turns her body and falls to the ground, staring at him. He is holding one hand out to her and the other he holds the paper against his chest – her heart. Liz, too, reaches out one hand and holds the other, with Max’s note in her hand against her chest – his heart. They give each other one last, longing look of love, which is felt to their inner core, a look that transcends the physical realm.

Another turning point that Max and Liz face together, yet apart. The door is closed. Like a meteor racing through the night sky – the ship is gone. They are gone. Max is gone…

Turning Points

Disclaimer: Owned by the WB, Roswell, Metz, Katims and all those other talented people. Just borrowing them for a period of time. I promise to put them back.

Journal entry: June 2002