Part 100A ************ Liz stood in the bride’s chambers, smoothing down her dress. She stared at her reflection in the full length mirror, her lips curling into a smile. In a less than an hour, she was going to be Max’s wife. She had to resist the temptation to run down the hall, screaming at the top of her lungs that she was going to get married. She shook her head, knowing how ridiculous that sounded, but she thought it anyway. The sound of the door knocking caused her to turn her head, her hands reaching to pull the skirt of her dress in order to move. “Come in.” All of the women piled into the small room, the grins on their faces so bright they could light up a Christmas tree. “How are you doing, honey bear?” Claudia walked to Liz, placing an arm around her. Liz grinned, her hands trembling with excitement. “Nervous. I just wish we could get this over with. The waiting is killing me.” Diane offered her a smile, reaching out to take her hand. “Phillip just got off the phone with Max, and they’re on their way over. Noah gave the guys a little bit of a hard time when they tried to put on his tux.” The girls giggled at the image of four grown boys chasing a two year old, just so they could make him wear a tuxedo. Maria stepped up, throwing her arms around Liz. “You ready for this babe?” Liz nodded against her shoulder. “Ready as I’ll ever be.” A knock from the door averted their attention. Jeff stuck his head inside, smiling. “The guys are here. You’re on in five, sweetie.” Liz swallowed, her head bobbing. The butterflies in her stomach were going crazy, her palms moist. Liz could hear the blood pounding in her ears, or was that her heart? Either way, she was a nervous wreck. What she needed right now was Max. He was the one that would be able to calm her down. Liz grabbed the edges of her dress, moving towards the door. “This is it.” Isabel grabbed her, pulling her back inside. “You can’t go out there yet.” Liz stared at her, confusion written all over her face. “Why not?” Maria took out a blue garter from behind her back. “Because.....You can’t get married without having something blue.” She twirled it around her finger before handing it to Liz. Liz blushed, but she accepted it, sliding it up her leg. Diane pulled out a black velvet box from her dress pocket. “Or something borrowed.” Liz took the small box, a small gasp escaping her lips as she eyed the diamond earrings inside. Isabel took the box from her hand, helping her put on the earrings. Nancy took out a long velvet box from her purse, placing it in Liz’s hand. “Or something new.” Liz snapped open the box, tears pooling at her eyes at the diamond bracelet inside. Nancy put her arms around Liz, kissing her temple. “That’s from me and daddy sweetheart.” She pulled away, moving to the side to let Claudia come forward. Claudia held Liz’s hands in hers, gripping it tightly. “Honey bear, I guess this is it.” She let go of Liz’s hand, pulling the worn gold ring from her finger. “This is your something old.” She placed the ring on Liz’s ring finger, on her right hand. “This is the ring your granddaddy placed on my finger the night that he married me.” She smiled, softly stroking Liz’s cheek. “He was my soul mate. I’ve worn that ring on my finger everyday since our wedding. I’ve never taken it off. Not once.” She kissed Liz’s cheek, hugging her. Liz shook her head, trying to return the ring to her grandmother. “I can’t....grandma, this is your ring.....I can’t....” Claudia closed her hand over Liz’s. “Yes you can, honey bear. Wear it, for me. And for your granddaddy. Make him proud, Lizzie. Wear his ring, and let him be a part of you today.” Liz swallowed past the lump in her throat, her eyes brimming with tears. Before she could get out a word, the door flew open with all of the women filing out. Liz could hear the music in the distance, comforting her. She turned to her mother, taking her hand. “Ready, mom?” ***************** Noah walked down the aisle, taking each one of his steps slowly just as his momma had taught him. He balanced the pillow in his hands, looking around in awe at the people sitting in the pews. He waved at them, grinning. “Hi!” As he made it to the front, Kyle and Courtney appeared at the back, slowly walking down. Kyle held Courtney’s hand in his, whispering through his teeth. “One day, it’s going to be standing up at that alter, and we won’t just be assisting the bride and groom. We‘ll be them.” Courtney gasped, her heart thumping wildly against her chest as Kyle basically told her that he wanted to marry her some day. “I know it’ll be a while still, but I just....I wanted you to know how I feel.” Courtney squeezed his hand, biting her lips to keep from crying at his words. Isabel and Alex walked down the aisle next, following in Kyle and Courtney’s footsteps. “Alex?” “Yea?” “I love you.” Alex smiled, gripping Isabel’s arm tighter in his. “I love you too, Iz.” As they reached the altar they parted ways, both of them taking their position on the bride and groom’s side. Michael held Maria’s arm steady in his, guiding her as they walked. “How you holding up, blondie?” Maria sniffed, trying her best to keep from crying. “Great...I’m just great.....great, considering my best friend is getting married today.” Michael nudged her side, giving her his patented smirk. “Well you know I’m here for you, right?” Maria’s eyes brightened up, her lips curling into a bonafide Deluca smile. Michael kissed her temple before letting her take her place. Max stood with his parents, taking deep breaths. Phillip placed a hand on his shoulder. “I want you to know Max, that you’ve made me the proudest father in the whole world.” Diane placed her hand on top of Phillip’s, her eyes misting up. “The same goes for me too, honey.” Max just nodded, his throat too tight for him to talk. His vision clouded with his tears upon hearing what his parents had to say to him. Together, the three of them walked down the aisle, only parting ways when they reached the altar. The sound of the organ grew a notch louder, playing the wedding march to indicate the bride’s presence. All eyes were trained on the veiled figure in white, surrounded by her parents. Jeff and Nancy each took one of Liz’s hands in theirs, slowly walking down the aisle. Max’s breath caught in his throat, his heart stopping. He watched as Liz walked down the aisle with her parents, almost as if in slow motion. He squinted his eyes, hoping to get a look at her beautiful face, but the white veil she wore over her face cloaked her beauty. Noah’s little voice carried down the church, echoing against the high ceiling. “MOMMA!” He had climbed onto the pew, waving to her from the front of the church. Diane and Phillip had to clamber to keep him from running down the aisle and into Liz’s arms. Liz looked up, giving a small wave to her little man. In return, he kissed his palm, throwing his arm her way, in his own special brand of flying kisses. Liz almost melted in her spot. She kept her gaze focused on him instead of on Max. It was too dangerous to look at Max before she reached the altar. If she looked at him now, it would only take a matter of seconds before she ran down the altar. After what seemed like an eternity, Liz, Nancy, and Jeff made it to the altar. Jeff pulled up Liz’s veil, kissing her forehead. Nancy settled for placing a kiss on Liz’s cheek, letting Liz go into Jeff’s arms. Jeff took one long look at his daughter, shaking his head as if he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. He squeezed her hand, turning so that he could place her hand in Max’s. He and Max nodded at each other, their eyes coming to an understanding as Jeff handed Max his only daughter. Max squeezed Liz’s hands, the two of them smiling at each other sweetly before turning their attention to the minister. The minister smiled, straightening his shoulders as he spoke. “Friends, we are gathered here to witness and to celebrate the coming together of two separate lives. We have come to join this man, Maxwell Phillip Evans, and this woman, Elizabeth Claudia Parker, in marriage, to be with them in the making of this important commitment. The essence of this commitment is the taking of another person in his or her entirety, as lover, companion, and friend. It is therefore a decision which is not to be entered into lightly, but rather undertaken with great consideration and respect for both the other person and oneself. Having made this decision, Maxwell and Elizabeth may feel justly proud. As Dietrich Bonhoeffer has said: "It is right and proper for a bride and bridegroom to welcome and celebrate their wedding day with a unique sense of triumph. When all the difficulties, obstacles, hindrances, doubts, and misgivings have been, not made light of, but honestly faced and overcome -- and it is certainly better not to take everything for granted -- then both parties have indeed achieved the most important triumph of their lives. With the "yes" that they have said to each other, they have, by their free choice, given a new direction to their lives; they have cheerfully and confidently defied all the uncertainties and hesitations with which, as they know, a lifelong partnership between two people is faced; and, by their own free and responsible action, they have conquered a new land to live in. Every wedding must be an occasion of joy that human beings can do such great things, that they have been given such immense freedom and power to take the helm in their life's journey." Marriage symbolizes the intimate sharing of two lives, yet this sharing must not diminish but enhance the individuality of each partner. A marriage that lasts is one which is continually developing and in which each person is individually developing, while growing in understanding of each other. Deep knowledge of another human being is not something that can be achieved in a short time, and real understanding of the other's feelings can develop fully only with years of intimacy. This wonderful knowledge of another person grows out of caring for the other so much that one wants to understand as completely as possible what the other is feeling. Thus, it is possible to share, not only joy and successes, but also the burden of sorrows and failures. To be known in this way is a priceless thing, because such understanding and acceptance increase life's joy and make it easier to live with all of life's problems. But again, while marriage is the intimate sharing of two lives, it can yet enhance the differences and individuality of each partner. We must give ourselves in love, but we must not give ourselves away. As Gibran wrote in The Prophet: "You were born together, and together you shall be forevermore. You shall be together when the white wings of death scatter your days. Aye, you shall be together even in the silent memory of God. But let there be spaces in your togetherness, And let the winds of heaven dance between you. Love one another, but make not a bond of love: Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls. Fill each other's cup, but drink not from one cup. Give one another of your bread, but eat not from the same loaf. Sing and dance together and be joyous, but let each one of you be alone. Even as the strings of a lute are alone though they quiver with the same music. Give your hearts, but not into each other's keeping. For only the hand of Life can contain your hearts. And stand together, yet not too near together: For the pillars of the temple stand apart, And the oak tree and the cypress grow not in each other's shadow." We are here today to give social recognition to the decision Maxwell and Elizabeth have made to accept each other totally and permanently, and to celebrate the love which they have for each other. "Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." (I Corinthians 13) Maxwell and Elizabeth come now to be united in marriage. Maxwell, repeat after me.” Max gripped Liz’s hand tightly, his eyes drowning in the chocolate color of hers. The eyes that drew him in the first time he had laid eyes on her. The minister’s voice droned on in the background, as Max repeated his words. “I, Maxwell, take thee Elizabeth, to be my lawful wedded wife, to have and to hold, from this day forth, to love, honor, and cherish, to comfort and to respect, in sorrow or in joy, in hardship or in plenty, so long as we both shall live.” The minister looked to Liz, but her eyes were focused on Max’s. “Elizabeth, repeat after me.” Liz nodded slowly, unable to tear her eyes away from Max’s amber gaze. Her lips quirked at the corners as she recited her vows. “I, Elizabeth, take thee Maxwell, to be my lawful wedded husband, to have and to hold, from this day forth, to love, honor, and cherish, to comfort and to respect, in sorrow or in joy, in hardship or in plenty, so long as we both shall live.” The booming voice of the minister’s voice reverberated in the small church as he resumed speaking. “Maxwell and Elizabeth wish to exchange rings as symbols of their vows.” All eyes turned to Noah as he slowly walked to the altar, bearing his parents’ ring. He handed them to the minister, giving a shy smile. Diane whispered Noah’s name, urging him to return to his seat, but he refused. He only shook his head, coming to stand in between Max and Liz. He curled his fist into Liz’s dress, his other hand holding onto Max’s pants leg. The minister shook his head, grinning at Noah. “Maxwell, as you place this ring on Elizabeth’s hand, repeat after me.” Max took the ring in his hand, gingerly placing it on Liz’s finger. He remembered the first time he had slipped it onto her finger, bringing a smile to his lips. “This is my beloved and this is my friend. With this ring I thee wed and join my life with yours.” The minister handed Max’s ring to Liz. “Elizabeth, as you place the ring on Maxwell’s hand, repeat after me.” With shaky hands, Liz managed to slip the ring on Max’s finger. She gave him a goofy smile, repeating the minister’s words. “This is my beloved and this is my friend. With this ring I thee wed and join my life with yours.” The minister clasped his hands together. “Before these loved ones and friends, Maxwell and Elizabeth have pledged themselves to each other and have symbolized this by giving and receiving rings. By the authority vested in me by the State of New Mexico, I pronounce you husband and wife.” He smiled, turning to Max. “You may kiss the bride.” Max grinned a million dollar smile. He leaned forward, cupping Liz’s face as he gave her a kiss. Their first kiss as husband and wife. Before the kiss could get any better, the spectators’ cheers and claps broke them apart. Sporting identical grins, Max and Liz held hands. Max bent down, scooping Noah into his arms, placing a kiss on his head. He turned Noah to face Liz, letting her cup his cheeks, giving Noah a few noisy kisses. The three of them stood as a family on the altar, letting people snatch their pictures before walking down the aisle. When the day had started, they had all walked alone. Now they walked together as the family they were. Nothing could tear them apart now. Part 100B ********** The wedding reception was held at the Hilton where the group had their prom. The Parker’s had rented out a small hall type room to accommodate the limited guests that Max and Liz had invited. As Max and Liz greeted their guests, Maria was stuck in the corner with Michael as he tried to calm her down. His hand stroked her back as she continued to let the tears fall, her chest heaving with hiccups. “I can’t.....Lizzie’s married, Michael....she’s married.” The words had a hard time escaping her tight throat, her voice a little hoarse from her crying. Michael kissed the top of her head, wrapping his arms a little tighter around her. “I know what you mean, blondie. But think of it this way, she married Max. It’s like a match made in heaven.” Maria wiped her nose with a tissue, nodding. “I know that, it’s just...this is Liz we’re talking about....I’m just, it seems like everything is moving so fast and I can’t even figure out where I am, or what I’m going to do next.” Michael grabbed a kleenex, dabbing the edges of her eyes where her tears had smudged her make-up. Smiling at the job he had done, Michael pulled her close, kissing her forehead. “We’ll figure things out together, because I’m as lost as you are.” He grinned, softly stroking her jaw. “C’mon. You gotta get up on that stage and announce the bride and groom’s first dance.” Maria pulled his hand to her lips, kissing his palm. “I’ll be back.” ************* With a few gentle taps against the microphone, Maria spoke softly into it. “If I could have everyone’s attention for just a moment.” The voices died down, all eyes turning to Maria. “It’s about that time that the bride and groom got up here and share their first dance, so.....” She grinned, motioning Max and Liz towards the dance floor. Almost like Moses parting the red sea, the people walked to the side, all making room for Max and Liz. Maria turned to the band giving them a wink. “Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Max Evans.” People clapped, quieting when the music started up. Max held Liz tightly to his body, gently stroking her back as she lay her cheek against his. The soft melody of “I could not ask for more” filtered in the small room, people’s eyes trained on the newlywed. Liz looked up, shocked that she was hearing the song that Max had softly sang in her ear the night she had spent the night in his arms. The night she, Max, and Noah first slept through the night as a family. “How....I thought?” The perplexed look in her eyes made Max a little worried. “I uh...I hope you don’t mind.” He lifted his hand, turning it around in the air. “I mean about the music. I know that you already had another song in my mind, but I talked to- His words were cut short by Liz’s lips, delicately kissing his. Pulling back with a dazed look, Max chanced a smile at her. “Wh-what was that for?” Liz grinned, her hand running up and down his tuxedo covered chest. “Because I love you. Thank you for having them change the song. I only think it’s fitting.” Max grinned, twisting their bodies as they danced to the last few bars of the song. When it was over, the guests clapped, some people getting on the dance floor to join them. Max and Liz just reveled in being in one another’s presence, just being to hold and touch each other. Max would place light kisses anywhere he could land, his hands unable to keep from running across her arms, her back, neck, anywhere he had access. Liz was the exact same way. Her face was buried in his neck, her nose inhaling his smell. She began placing soft kisses on his neck, leading towards his jaw, finally to his luscious mouth. Their kiss was languid, unhurried. It was like they knew they had all the time in the world now, and there was no use in hurrying. They would have continued that way had it not been for the tap on Max’s shoulder. The couple pulled away from each other, their cheeks flushed from their heated kiss. Jeff stood tall, holding his hand out to Liz. “What do you say, Max? You think you could let me cut in?” Max smiled, nodding as he stepped aside. Liz kissed his cheek, taking her father’s hand as she let him lead her. Jeff looked at Liz in his arms, his head doing an occasional shake. “What?” Jeff felt his eyes brimming with tears as he spoke. “It’s hard to believe that my baby girl is grown up now and has her own family.” He swallowed back a sob, continuing to speak. “I know that your mother and I gave you a hard time with Max before, but it was only because we wanted to know if he was worthy of your love.” Liz felt her throat tightening, her heart beating wildly. “And do you think he does?” Jeff smiled. “Honey, Max couldn’t be more deserving of your love if he tried.” The tears ran freely now, wetting his cheeks. “You belong to him now, Lizzie. You’re what your grandmother calls soul mates......Seeing the two of you together,” he let out a little chuckle. “I know I made the right decision when I walked you down the aisle today.” Liz smiled, her heart clenching in her chest. Hearing her father say those words to her made her feel on top of the world. That he and her mother accepted her and Max finally.... She reached forward, wiping away the wet tracks of his tears. “I love you, daddy.” ********* Max walked quietly in the direction of Nancy Parker, looking rather timid. She was having a quiet conversation with some of the guests when he happened upon her. “Mrs. Parker?” Nancy looked up, her heart clutching in her chest at the slightly worried look in Max’s eyes. “Yes, Max?” He began shuffling his feet, unable to stand still. “I was...I was wondering if you’d like to dance with me?” Nancy felt her heart return to normal, her lips quirking up into a smile. “Why thank you, Max. I’d love to dance.” He smiled, extending his hand out to hers. He led her to the dance floor, gently placing one hand on her waist, the other, clutching her hand. “Max?” Nancy had placed her hand on his shoulder, noticing the stiffness in his body. “Yes?” “Relax, honey. It’s just me. I won’t bite.” Max let out a laugh, his shoulders slumping a little. “I’m sorry, Mrs. Parker. I guess I’m still a little nervous after everything.” “Well there’s no need to be nervous, Max. And there’s definitely no need to continue calling me Mrs. Parker.” Her soft laughter sounded a lot like Liz’s. “It’s just Nancy now.” Max nodded, the smile never leaving his face. “Oh, and Max?” “Yes?” “I know that I’ve been an absolute nightmare to you when I first found out about you and Liz. I was irrational, and I certainly wouldn’t listen to reason.” Nancy gave him a tight smile as she spoke. “I realized that you and Liz had something special that night that I met you and Noah at dinner. I remember how I continuously put my foot in my mouth, and just...I was just a little overbearing.” Max shook his head to disagree with her, but Nancy wouldn’t allow it. “Max, I realized that night that you and Noah had a hold on my daughter. The two of you....you guys make her smile like no one else can. I have to say that it scared me that Liz was getting herself an instant family, but, I know now, that the three of you.....the three of you belong together. I was wrong to try and keep you apart, and I want to apologize.” She turned solemn eyes at Max, hoping to receive his acceptance, but even he didn’t she would understand. “I accept your apology, Nancy.” The two of them shared an understanding smile before the moment was broken. “If I could have your attention again, folks. It’s about that time for cake. A certain little boy I know has been eyeing it for a while now, so what do you say we all put him out of his misery?” Laughter echoed in the room. “Max and Liz....” The floor was once again cleared as they rolled in the two tier cake into the room. Max had wrapped his arm around Liz’s waist, his other arm carrying Noah. The three of them walked towards the cake, taking the knife from the waiter. Noah’s eyes grew wide, his hands flailing. “Ooo, cake!” Liz giggled into Max’s side, feeling the rumbling of his laughter from inside his chest. They each placed a hand on the knife, getting ready to cut the cake, when Noah’s little palm gently lay on top of theirs. He gave his parents a little grin, pushing their hands down to cut the cake. Liz cut the rest, placing it onto a plate. Getting a fork, she took a piece, feeding it to Max. Max smiled, doing the same for Liz. Just as they were about to give Noah a piece, he stuck his hand into the cake, his fingers dipping into the white frosting. With a grin on his lips, he licked at the cake on his hand. “Yummy!” Liz laughed, placing a kiss on his cheek. “That’s right precious.” ********* As the night drew on, the dancing continued and people had their fill of food and drinks. Maria stood at the stage one last time, clearing her throat. “Ahem....If I could bother everyone for just one last time. It’s time for the groom to throw the garter and the bride to throw her bouquet before they leave.” Maria gave Max and Liz a big wink, and began nudging the air next to her. “That is, if you know what I mean.” Max almost dropped the glass in his hands, the tips of his ears turning red. Alex had to lead him to Liz where she was seated on a chair, waiting for his arrival. Max gulped, coming down to kneel in front of Liz. She gave him a small smile, sticking out her leg to him. Max cradled her leg gently, letting his hand dip under her dress to find the elusive garter. He looked up to the sound of her small gasp at the touch of his warm hands against her silky skin. He gave her a killer smile, his hands continuing their exploration. When his hands came into contact with the lacy material, an image of him pulling it off her leg with his teeth flashed into his mind, a small groan escaping his lips. Liz heard his groan, feeling his hands tighten around her leg. If only she could tell him to hurry up so that she could throw her bouquet so that they could go upstairs to their room. It had been way too long since they had been together. Together where they could finally sleep in each other’s arms without having to worry about someone getting the wrong idea upon seeing them. A roguish grin passed her lips as she thought about how she and Max were probably not going to be sleeping much. As if reading her mind, Max yanked the blue garter from her leg, holding it up in the air. He gave Liz a quick peck, heading towards the stage. He grinned at his friends before turning around and throwing it over his back. An unsuspecting Alex was surprised when it landed in his crossed arms. A dopey grin plastered itself to his face as he and Isabel exchanged glances. He merely shrugged his shoulders, walking off the dance floor to let the ladies take their place. Liz stood on the stage, grinning as she held her bouquet. She gave her friends a wave before turning around. Just as Max had done a few minutes previous, she threw the flowers over her shoulder to a mass of screaming ladies. When she turned around, she couldn’t help but chuckle at the surprised look on Courtney’s face as she held the flowers in her hand. Liz was going to call out something to her, but she felt herself being pulled away by Max. “C’mon. We’ll say goodnight to Noah and then we can....” “Go upstairs.” she finished his sentence, holding his hand tightly. The two of them walked to the table where Diane was sitting, Noah’s body sleeping peacefully in her arms. “Mom, we just came to say goodnight.” Diane smiled, turning Noah’s body so that they could touch him. Max and Liz looked at each other, both of them leaning down to each place a kiss on both of his cheeks. “Nite nite, precious.” Max brushed Noah’s hair away from his face, smiling as he watched how contently he slept. “Sleep tight, little man.” With that, Max grabbed Liz’s hand, leading her through the double doors, to the hotel lobby where the elevators were located. He pressed the button, turning to look at Liz. “This is the beginning of the rest of our lives, Max.” He brought their linked hands to his lips, kissing it amorously. The chime of the elevator sounded, the doors sliding open. Giving each other one last heated stare, Max and Liz stepped inside. Part 100C Rated: NC-17 *********** Max and Liz stepped out of the elevator, walking slowly towards the honeymoon suite. Max dug into his pocket searching for the room key, his hands unsteady as he reached for the lock. After a few unsteady tries, Liz reached forward, her hand steadying his. Together, they slipped the plastic card into the lock, both breathing a sigh if relief when the green light flashed, the sound of the lock un-clicking sounding almost comforting. Liz reached for the door, intending to walk through it when she suddenly felt herself being lifted up. With a little squeal, she turned her head to get a look at Max’s face. “Max! What are you doing?” He gave her an impish grin, bumping the door open with his hip. “Well it is customary for the groom to carry his wife over the threshold.” He kicked the door closed behind them, moving further into the room. They stood there for a few moments, with Max’s gaze trained on Liz’s face, Liz’s lips, well everything and anything that was Liz. Liz shifted in his arms, feeling a little uncomfortable that he kept holding her in his arms. She feared that she was too heavy and she didn’t want him to push himself. Running her hand down the back of his head, her fingers curled around the hair against his neck. “Well, seeing as we are in the room....I think you can put me down now, Max.” “Huh?” Max was in too deep to register what Liz was saying. It was only when she began squirming in his arms that he realized that he was still carrying her, making her feel slightly uncomfortable. “Oh!” His eyes bugged as he eased her down gently, feeling like a complete fool for being too far gone. The two of them eyed the room, their hands clasped tightly. It was a beautiful room, but their eyes kept drifting to the big bed. They knew what they wanted to do. They knew what they came up here to do, yet it felt a little weird standing there knowing what was about to happen. Nervousness and uncertainty rolled off of them in waves, making them unable to move. “So.” Liz hoped to break the silence, but it was all that she could think of. She had no idea why she was so nervous all of a sudden. She turned to look at Max, hoping that he could ease her nerves a little. Just as nervous as she was, Max rocked back on his heels, eyeing the room one last time before turning his eyes to his beloved. “So..” The two of them burst into laughter, finding it hilarious that the two of them were so nervous. Liz shook her head, coming to stand on her tip toes as she pulled Max’s face towards hers. She gave him a demanding kiss, reminding them of the passion that they were so caught up in only moments before. Liz teased his mouth open, her tongue seeking his to love. After a few gentle sweeps in his mouth, she grabbed the sides of his face, pulling him closer to her. Instinctively, Max grasped her hips, pushing her against his hardness. The moans of gratification that sliced passed their lips served only to make their bodies heat up, their blood to pound against their ears, their hearts to beat wildly against their chests. The harsh sounds of their breathing indicated their need for air, but neither refused to let go. Liz found herself arching her back, her hips moving in time with Max’s as their bodies began a dance as old as time. With trembling knees, Liz pulled away, her hand coming to rest against Max’s cheek. “Let me just slip into something more comfortable.” Max grabbed her wrist, twisting her so that they were facing each other. He wrapped his hand around her waist, pulling her into his body once again. The small gasp that he elicited from her, made him smile. With gentle hands, he ran his hand lovingly down her back, pushing her chest against his, their hearts beating in time with each other. Max brought his hand up to brush away a loose tendril of Liz’s hair, his eyes following his hand’s every move. Unable to keep his lips away from hers, he dipped his head, his lips once again drinking from hers. He made a trail of wet kisses along her jaw, smiling when she arched her neck to allow him access to her delicate skin. He made a path to her ear, his teeth gently tugging on her earlobe before moving to the sensitive skin behind her ear. The soft breathy moans coming from her throat thrilled him to the point of spontaneous combustion. With his body aching for hers, he whispered into her. “There’s only one person who’s going to be taking off your wedding dress, and it’s going to be me.” Breathing against her ear, his fingers danced teasingly across the zipper that held her dress together. Liz shivered, her voice refusing to work. She nodded, her hand coming to catch his around her back. She pulled away from him so that she could look into his eyes. With a slow smile, she curled her fingers around his, in turn, curling his fingers around the zipper. “Then what are you waiting for?” Max had to swallow a few times, his hand trembling as he eased the zipper down. When it ended right above her tush, his hands came up and around her shoulders, his fingers dipping under the straps of her dress. Placing another kiss on her lips, he gripped the straps in his hands, pulling them down. He let gravity take it’s course, her dress pooling at her ankles. Stepping back, he reached for her hand helping her to step away from her dress. His eyes raked hotly up her body as he feasted on her naked flesh. She stood in a pair of white silk panties, the only thing complimenting it, the high heels on her feet. Max could feel himself throb in his pants as Liz stood beautifully before him. He reached for the tiara that held her hair together, gently unclasping it’s hold to let her hair fan around her shoulders. Max sucked in his breath, unable to believe that the angel standing before him, was his. That she belonged only to him, and that he to her. He would have stayed, staring at her, but Liz came to stand before him, taking off his clothes. “Too many clothes.” He nodded, deciding to help her. He kicked off his shoes and socks, while shrugging out of his jacket. He let Liz unbutton his shirt, her hands gently shrugging it off, of his shoulders. In their haste to get him as undressed as she was, their heads bumped, their fingers colliding as they both reached to unfasten his pants. Stroking her cheek, Max pulled his hands away, letting her have free reign. Liz could feel her breath quicken as she felt the heat emanating from behind the zipper as she lowered it. Just as he had done to her, she let his pants pool at his ankles, her hand reaching out to his, to help him step out of them. Standing in front of each other in just their underwear, the nervousness began to eat up at them again. Before it could completely consume them, Max led them to the bed, letting Liz lie in the middle. Getting up on his knees, Max moved closer to her, his lips twitching when her legs opened in an invitation to him. Sinking between her legs, Max bit back a groan as he felt her molten core mold against him. With Instinct winning over, Max shifted his hips, his erection gliding over her wet panties, causing a whimper to escape from Liz’s throat. He leaned on his elbows, as he began a rhythm with their lower bodies. The soft cotton of his boxers moving against her silk panties, creating a delicious friction that drove them almost insane. Grabbing him by his ears, Liz fused her lips to his. Her hands ran over his naked back, coming to land against his butt as she urged him to go faster. Her legs came to wrap around his waist, her heels digging into the soft flesh of his butt. Groaning, Max squeezed his hands between their writhing bodies, his fingers tweaking her nipples into hard peaks. They continued in that manner, until Liz’s gyrating hips became too much for Max. Wrenching his lips away from hers, Max pulled away, kicking his boxers off. Liz lay back against the pillows, her body flushed, her tongue licking her lips as she watched Max sit nakedly in front of her. Her hands reached out to touch him, but he moved away, shaking his head. He came to kneel between her spread legs, his hands massaging the tender skin of her thighs. Liz’s eyes rolled in the back of her head, as she felt herself answering his touch with her liquid, completely soaking her panties. She whimpered, wanting Max to ease the ache between her legs. “Max....please...please....” Usually unable to refuse her anything, Max shook his head, trying valiantly to hold on to any sanity he had left. “Liz, look at me.” He waited until her long lashes fluttered against her cheeks, her doe eyes pleading with him to take her. Max gulped, resisting the urge. Instead, he pleaded with her, hoping to fulfill one of her fantasies before they completely gave themselves to one another as husband and wife. Liz saw the plea flash across his eyes, and because she could deny him nothing, she nodded and waited. Max gave her a tight smile. “Tell me your fantasy, Liz.” Liz sat up on her elbows, not at all expecting to hear that. “What?” Max’s hand continued to draw invisible patterns on her legs as he spoke. “Well....you’ve already fulfilled one of my fantasies....” He gave a boyish grin, his eyes darting down quickly. “You know...with the table?....I just.....I wanted to do something for you...” Liz melted against the pillows, wondering how in the world she had ended up with the most incredible man in the world. Smiling she reached for his hand, gripping it. “Max, all I want is for you to make love to me.” Max shook his head, unable to let it go for the moment. “I know, but...but there has to be something.....You’ve never....you’ve never wanted to uh....wanted something?” Max wanted to scream out in frustration for not being able to explain himself, but that was put on hold as he saw Liz’s face darken with a new blush. Her voice coming out in shy, unsure way. “I have...sort of.” Max smiled, moving closer to her. “What is it? What’s your fantasy?” Liz refused to meet his eyes. “Sometimes...I think...I think about you, kissing me.” Max titled her chin, forcing her to look at him. “Where?” She didn’t answer for a while, almost seeming like she was struggling with herself. Finally, she grabbed his hand, bringing it to rest against her panties. “Here.” Max was in shock for a second, his voice un cooperating as he tried to come to terms with the fact that she wanted something he wanted. He had always been afraid to ask her, not wanting to scare her. Liz felt her cheeks burn as Max just sat there not saying anything. Feeling completely humiliated, she sat up, afraid that she had disgusted him. Max saw the humility flash in her eyes, making him hate himself. He reached for her, trying to get her to look at him. “I want that too, Liz.” Unsure, Liz looked at him skeptically. Wondering if he was just saying that to appease her, or if he was saying the truth. Liz felt the wind being knocked out of her as she saw the passion in his eyes. She could always tell if he was being honest with her, just by looking at his eyes. And by the looks of things, he was hungry for her. She lay back, watching as he lifted up her ankle, giving it a warm kiss. He took off her shoe, tossing it over his shoulder. He began a descent of nibbles down her leg, suckling her skin until he reached her panties. Breathing across her wetness, he continued his kisses up her other leg, coming to take off her other shoe. Max watched as she lay open for him, with complete love, and with complete trust. He lay on his stomach, his face scant inches away from her sex. Closing his eyes, he inhaled her scent, his tongue coming out to trace her against the silk material of her panties. Liz writhed above him, her hips moving insistently. Growling, Max tore off her panties, eyeing her beauty a second before dipping his head. The first touch of his tongue to her heated flesh caused her body to tremble, her body wanton under his touch. Liz let him drink his fill, her fingers digging into his scalp. She could feel the end coming upon her, so she pulled his face from between her legs, letting his hardness slide against her wetness. Max looked at her confused, knowing that she was on the verge, but feeling her pull him up abruptly. She kissed his lips, guiding his erection to her opening, her breaths turning into pants. “I want to have my first orgasm as your wife with you.....this way.” Max nodded, understanding her motives. She wanted to share that explosive experience together as husband and wife. He felt like his heart was ready to burst. He pulled away slightly, intending to reach for a condom, when Liz grabbed him. “Liz...I....the condom...” He pointed to his pants on the floor, but she wouldn’t hear any of it. “I’m....I went on the pill...” Max looked at her with a bewildered expression, wondering why she had never said anything before. Liz cupped his cheek, smiling tightly. “I wanted...I wanted our first time without using one to be our wedding night....that’s why I didn’t- Max ravished her mouth, understanding why she had not mentioned it to him before. Moving gracefully, he slipped between her folds his eyes closing as he was encased in her hot, tight walls. He thrust deep, purposefully. Their moans and groans of satisfaction filled the room, the scent of their lovemaking permeating the atmosphere. Their movements were frantic, desperate to reach the quintessence of being one. They had been in this condition for too long. It wasn’t long before their pumping bodies erupted, the world around them fading away. Liz bit into Max’s shoulder, her body quivering as she felt him spill his hot seed inside her. She held his body close to hers, her hands soothing his back until the tremors receded from his body. “Love you.” “Love you, too.” They fell asleep in each others arms, their limbs entwined as they entered the dream world. ********** As per usual, Max was the first to awaken, the grin on his face unable to be wiped away. He continued to touch and to watch Liz in her sleep, feeling on top of the world that they were husband and wife once and for all. Stretching her arms like a cat, Liz yawned, smiling before she could open her eyes. “Hey, you.” Liz leaned forward, placing a kiss on his chest. “Hey.” Her voice was still a tad raspy from her continuous cries from their love making, giving her voice a throaty edge. Max combed his fingers through her hair as he kissed the skin on her shoulder. “How’d you sleep?” “Fantastic...you?” Max grinned, sitting up. “Fantastic.” He slipped from under the sheet, walking towards his bag. Liz sat up, her head tilted as she enjoyed the view of Max’s naked tush. “Come back to bed, Max. I wanna ravish you some more.” Max looked over his shoulder, chuckling. Finding what he was looking for, he grabbed the papers and a pen, heading back to the bed. Liz looked at him curiously, as he handed her the papers. “What’s this?” Max took a deep breath, trying to calm his jangled nerves. “They’re adoption papers for Noah.” Their eyes locked, and Max continued. “I asked my mom and dad to help me with all of the legal mumbo jumbo, so, if you decide that you want to...uhm...all you have to do is sign.” He looked worried for a second as he took the papers from her hand, continuing to ramble. “But it isn’t something you have to do...It’s just that the option is there if you want, but I don’t want you to feel like I’m pressuring you- Max stopped talking when he saw the tears fall down Liz’s cheeks. His heart broke, seeing her this way. “I’m sorry...it was...it was a bad idea....I’m sorry.” His voice cracked as he walked away to get rid of the papers when Liz grabbed them from him. Her eyes quickly scanned the papers before signing at the x. With a scratchy voice, Max gave her a pained look. “Liz...you didn’t have to do that....I’m sorry- She silenced him with a kiss, leading him back to bed. She pulled away, her hands cupping his face. “Don’t apologize, Max. What you did.....I could never thank you enough for doing that for me. By you doing that, you’re letting me be a part of Noah. You’re giving me an opportunity to own him, to belong to him. To really be his mother. You have no idea what this means to me.” Max smiled, wiping away her warm tears with his thumbs. “You already owned us. The three of us, we belong together, and now, no one can take that away from us.” They kissed, almost as if sealing the deal. The shrill ring of the telephone broke them apart. Grudgingly, Max reached for the phone, answering it. “Hello?” “Honey, it’s mom. I know this is a really terrible time to call, but Noah’s been crying for the last hour. We’ve tried everything, but he keeps calling for you and Liz. I don’t know what to do, Max.” “We’ll be home in a little bit.” He hung up the phone dejectedly. He wanted nothing more than to spend the rest of the day with Liz in his arms, making love to her till the sun died down, indicating another day had passed, but he couldn’t turn his back at the thought that his son wanted him. “I’m sorry, but mom says that Noah’s been crying non stop since he woke up this morning. She hasn’t been able to make him stop. I’m sorry, but I told her- Liz placed her finger to his lips, smiling. “I heard. We’re going home.” She stood up, reaching for her clothes. He stopped behind her, placing a hand on her shoulder. “You’re not mad, are you?” She turned around, smiling the proud smile of a mother. “Max, our son wants us home. We have the rest of our lives to love each other.” Max kissed the tip of her nose, his heart swelling with the love he had for her. “Have I told you yet, how much I love you today?” Liz shook her head, her brown hair flying across her shoulders. “Nope.” “Well, Mrs. Evans, I love you now till eternity. Although I get the feeling that that isn’t enough still.” Liz grinned, wrapping her arms around him as she kissed his lips sweetly. “I love you to, Max. From now till eternity.” She pushed him away, laughing as she did. “Let’s go.” A wicked gleam passed over her eyes as she eyed her clothes. “I’ll race you.” ********** They drove home in silence, their hands entwined over the middle console. They gave each other an excited smile as they parked in the driveway, running to greet Noah. Diane and Phillip had taken Noah out on the front porch steps, waiting for the arrival of his parents. His eyes perked up, his cries dying down as he caught sight of his parents. With wobbly legs he ran to them, jumping into Liz’s embrace. “Momma! Daddy! “Momma missed you, precious!” She peppered his face with kisses before handing him off to Max. Max grinned, lifting Noah into the air as he placed zurbits on his exposed tummy. “We missed you, little man.” Max tickled him mercilessly, until the three of them fell into a heap on the front lawn. Max turned to look at Liz, their laughs subsiding as they realized that this was it. They had come full circle, and for the first time in their lives they were where they really belonged. Max’s words from long ago echoed in their minds as they hugged as the family that they were. ’It really is meant to be.’ The End.