Two weeks after Part 30B. Part 31A *************** “Wanna get some dinner?” Josh Harper, tall, blonde, blue eyed, and handsome, leaned against Liz’s desk. Liz looked up from the papers stacked on her desk, giving him a slightly agitated smile. “No thanks. I’ve got to get through all of this paper work before I can go home.” Smiling his million dollar smile, he perched himself on her desk. “Fine, then we’ll order in. I’ll bring my work in here and the two of us can work together.” Liz pushed herself away from her desk, walking to the printer. “I don’t think that’s such a good idea. My husband is making dinner, so I’m trying to get all of this work done so I can go home and be with my family.” “Just my luck. I’ve been here two weeks and I hardly get to know any of my coworkers.” He picked up a family picture of Max, Liz, Noah, and Leah his face turning into a scowl. “Yeah, well I don’t think it’s a really good idea to be socializing at work. We’re here to work, that’s what we’re getting paid for.” She snatched the picture out of his hands, pushing his feet off of one of the chairs. Josh followed Liz, a feral smile on his lips. “That’s what I like about you, Liz. You’re a real go-getter.” He reached over her shoulder, taking the picture in his hands again. He let a whistle, shaking his head. “Two kids? Wow, I mean, look at you. You look like you weren’t even pregnant just a few months ago.” Liz cringed at his intense scrutiny, grabbing the picture again. “Josh, do you mind? I have a lot of work to do, and I really would much rather be at home.” She ushered him towards the door, closing it firmly behind him. She could hear his muffled voice coming through the door, causing her to roll her eyes. “I’ll talk to you tomorrow, Josh.” She leaned heavily against the door, letting the breath escape from her body, glad to finally be rid of Josh. It wasn’t that she disliked him, she just didn’t like his over-friendliness. It made her feel claustrophobic. She didn’t understand his wanting to get to know her. He had been working in her department for two weeks now, and ever since they had been introduced, he followed her around like a puppy, suggesting they get lunch, hang out together. There was only so much you could do to be polite. Liz pushed herself from the door, sitting at her desk. She banged her head against the table a few times, before taking a look at her watch. Dejectedly, she reached for the phone, dialing home. She chewed her bottom lip waiting for someone to pick up. ”Hello? Liz smiled, her finger twining in the phone cord. “Hiya, precious. It’s momma.” ”Momma! Where are you? We’re getting hungry. Daddy made his famous chilli and we’re waiting for you to get here.” Liz opened her mouth to say something, but stopped when she heard shuffling on the other end. A breathless Max spoke on the other end, his voice a mixture excitement and happiness. “You better be calling on your cell phone to tell me that you’re in the driveway, because dinner is ready, the kids have washed their hands, the laundry’s done, and Alex and Iz brought over a cake with extra frosting.” “That’s what I called about.” She felt her stomach drop, her teeth chewing furiously on her lip. ”Let me guess? You’re stuck there till late, and you won’t be able to make it to dinner,” he spoke in a dejected tone. “I’m sorry, Max. I’d come home if I could, but- ”Liz, it’s okay. Don’t worry about it. Stay as long as you have to. I’ll keep a plate for you in the oven.” Liz could almost feel him smiling against the phone. ”Although I can’t make any guarantees about the cake.” “You’re too good to me.” ”I think you’ve got that the other way around, love.” He let out a sigh, clearing his throat. “I should let you go. The sooner you go back to work, the sooner you’ll be able to come home.” “I love you, Max.” Liz kissed the tips of her fingers, placing it onto Max’s picture. ”Love you too, babe.” **************** Maria pulled up a stool, keeping Joey company while they waited for the customers to show up. “So, how do you like Roswell so far? I know that you’re from Albuquerque, but Roswell is a little too hokey,” she laughed. Joey shook her head, giggling with Maria. “Roswell really isn’t that bad. Sure, it has it’s moments of hokiness, but all in all, it’s very homey.” “Speaking of homey, did you meet up with your family yet? I remember you mentioned something about having family in the area.” Joey’s eyes unconsciously flew to the kitchen where Michael had swiped a smidgen of dressing and wiped it onto a squirming Jamie’s nose. She coughed to cover her sigh. “I actually don’t even know where to begin looking. We haven’t had contact for over 23 years now.” Maria’s eyes widened with curiosity, wondering how someone could stay out of contact with family for more than that time. She had to bite down on her tongue, so as not to ask and make it seem like she was being nosy, but her curiosity was definitely piqued. She saw the wistful look pass over Joey’s eyes before she busied herself with fixing the menus. “Well, if you ever need any help….” her voice trailed off, her lips curling into an encouraging smile. Joey stopped what she was doing to offer Maria a smile. “Besides, Roswell isn’t that big of a town. This relative of yours could be right under your nose and you might not have realized it.” ****************** Max grabbed the kids’ over night bag, the cordless phone resting against his ear and shoulder. When someone picked up on the other line, Max smiled. “Hello?” “It’s Max. I was wondering if you guys could do me a favor?” Part 31B **************** Courtney held a brown paper bag in one hand, and juggled two cans of soda in the other. She walked down the hospital corridors swiftly, her badge dangling from her neck. Josh came out of his office, leaning against the door frame as he stared at Liz’s closed door. He was about to return to his own office when Courtney flew right by him. “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t see you standing there.” Courtney apologized for having startled the guy. Josh eyed Courtney up and down, nodding appreciatively. “Pleasure was all mine.” Courtney frowned, moving to step away from him. “Yeah, well I gotta go.” “But you haven’t even told me your name yet.” He followed her, walking around until he was face to face with her again. “The name’s Josh. Josh Harper. I just got transferred here from LA.” Unimpressed, Courtney gave him a curt nod. “Right….like I said, I have to get going.” Josh grinned, rubbing his palms together. “A woman on a mission. I like that.” “Yeah? Well I happen to a married woman too. You like that?” she snapped. Courtney was never one to be rude or mean, but this Josh character seemed to lay it on pretty thick. He wasn’t too big on reading signals, and frankly he seemed to be all beauty and no brains. “Hey, now. I’m just being friendly. I’m not trying to get fresh with you.” Even as the words came out of his mouth, it was obvious that he was still checking out Courtney. He was eyeing her like she was his last meal. When their eyes met, Courtney glared at him before continuing to Liz’s office. “You know Liz?” His eyebrows were raised, his hand absently rubbing his chin. “Yes.” With her one word answer, she turned on her heel, quickly thrusting herself through Liz’s door, kicking it shut with a loud thud. “Mmm mmm. Who knew that Roswell would be hotties galore?” Josh walked backwards, grinning at the thought of Liz and Courtney working at the same hospital. ************** Courtney let out a growl, dropping the bag and cans on Liz’s desk. “Hey Court. Everything ok?” Liz looked up from her paperwork, startled to see her friend so disgruntled. She flopped down heavily on one of the seats, popping the top of the can. “I was practically harassed by some guy named Josh, outside.” Liz leaned sideways, glancing at the door. “You’re kidding me? He’s still here?” “Unfortunately. I actually thought about using all that self-defense that Kyle taught me.” She chugged the coke, digging into the paper bag for a sandwich. She offered one to Liz, who just scrunched up her face. “Sorry about the stale choices, but the cafeteria was about to close and I only have a half hour dinner break.” “Eh, don’t worry about it. I’m just pissed that I’m missing out on Chili night.” She fingered the ring on the can, leaning back against her chair. “You’re missing out on chili night? That sucks.” She patted Liz’s hand. “Well, I’m sure Max will keep a plate warm for you. That, I can guarantee.” Liz chuckled at how well everyone knew Max. “Yeah, but it isn’t even so much the chili.” Courtney stopped herself from taking a bite from her sandwich to raise an eyebrow at Liz. Liz just laughed some more, holding up her hand. “Okay, so the chili plays a big role in this. Max is the master chili maker, but this is like the fifth time in the last two weeks that I’ve had to miss out on dinner. I know it sounds completely ridiculous, but I feel like I hardly get to see my own family any more.” “Believe me, I know how you feel. I never see Kyle anymore. He works during the day while I watch the kids, and he watches them when I go to work at night. I think I used to see more of him when we weren’t married.” “Tell me about. Everything we do has to be planned ahead of time, and there’s always a schedule. Sometimes, I feel like I have to make an appointment just to see my kids.” Liz blew out a breath. The two women sat in silence both of them wallowing in their own self pity. They glanced at each other before bursting out into laughter. “Do you realize how selfish we sound?” “We’ve got the best husbands, the greatest kids and we’re sitting here complaining about it.” Courtney tipped her head back, gesturing towards the door. “I think seeing guys like Josh reminds us of what’s waiting for us at home, and we can’t wait to get there.” Liz held up her soda, tapping it with Courtney’s. “You’re right about that!” *************** Max handed Alex a list of instructions, his eyes dancing back and forth between his children as they sat with Isabel. “Max, relax. Iz and I have everything under control.” He smacked him on the shoulder, grinning like a fool. Isabel called out from where she was cradling Leah in her arms. “Go and do whatever romantic thing you have planned and sweep Liz off of her feet.” “Right.” Max stepped out of the door, waving to the kids. Before Alex had even closed the door halfway, Max pummeled back inside, plucking Leah out of Isabel’s arms. “I’ll miss you puddin’.” He kissed the soft skin of her cheek, smiling when she hit his nose with her hand. He bent down, kissing the top of Noah’s head, laying his cheek against Noah’s curly hair. “You kids be good to your Uncle Alex and your auntie Iz.” “We will. Give momma kisses for us.” Max handed Leah back to Isabel, reluctant to let her go. Isabel gave him a reassuring smile, giving his hand a soft squeeze. He stood back up, shoving his hands in his pockets so as not to take one of the children again. “Right. Will do little man.” He backed away, nodding his goodbye. Alex watched Max until he disappeared down the hall before closing the door. He looked at Isabel, grinning like a fool. “Geesh. That was like pulling teeth, only it’s painful for everyone.” He shook his head, plopping down next to Isabel. He looked over her shoulder, touching Leah’s tiny fist. He let out a sigh, looking down at Noah who was playing with his airplane. “Heck. Who am I kidding? I am so going to be the same when our’s gets here.” Isabel placed kisses all over Leah’s sweet skin. “You will make a wonderful father.” Noah’s voice piped up in the conversation even as he continued to twist and turn his plane in the air. “Do you know if we’re gonna get a boy or girl cousin yet?” Alex called Noah over, having him sit beside him. “Well Noah, your auntie Iz and I decided we’d like it to be a surprise, so we don’t know what we’re having yet.” Noah nodded thoughtfully, finally breaking out into a grin. “I like surprises. Momma’s planning a surprise trip for daddy at the end of summer, but I’m not supposed to tell. She wants to take us to California.” Isabel looked at her nephew, laughing as her blonde locks shook from side to side. “I thought you said you weren’t supposed to tell?” “I said, I wasn’t supposed to tell daddy. Momma didn’t say anytin’ about not telling anyone else,” he replied innocently. “Ever thought about being a lawyer Noah? You make a pretty good argument there.” Alex joked, his hand ruffling Noah’s hair. “Nah. I’m gonna be a pilot. I’m gonna fly planes when I’m grown.” “Wow. You’ve got it all figured out, don’t you?” “Not so much.” He held his thumb and forefinger a quarter of an inch apart. “Just a little bit.” Alex had an amused grin on his lips as he continued to converse with Noah. “Well, what have you got planned?” “I’m gonna be a pilot. Take care of momma and Leah like daddy said, and marry Jade.” Alex and Isabel had to contain their giggles when Noah mentioned marrying Jade. Isabel hid a cough behind her hand. “So, does Jade know about this future marriage?” Noah let out a sigh, slightly frustrated that adults seemed to take forever to catch onto things. “We already tried, but it didn‘t work. We just gotta do it for real when we’re old.” Alex choked, beginning a coughing fit. “How do you guys know it didn‘t work?” “Cos, we didn‘t kiss.” He made a gagging face, his body cringing. He picked up his plane again, already bored with the conversation. He ran around the room, making zooming noises. Alex and Isabel leaned their heads together, both of them giggling together silently. “I can’t wait til ours gets here. This is going to be so much fun.” Noah stopped running around, looking at Alex. “Uncle Alex?” “Yeah pal?” “Can I have some dessert? Daddy didn’t have time to let me have some at home.” “Sure. What would you like?” Alex pushed himself off of the couch, rubbing his palms against the back of his pants. “You have any frosting?” Part 31C ****************** As the kitchen slowed down, Maria popped into the back, her arms wrapping around Michael’s waist as she lay her cheek against his back. “Hey.” He wiped the sweat from his brow, throwing the drenched bandana off of his head, He squeezed her arms, pulling her to stand in front of him. He gave her his trademark smirk before bending down to kiss her. “How are things up front?” Maria grinned, tipping her head back. “Joey’s got it all under control.” His eyes flew to the front of the restaurant, his smile widening as he watched Joey move around with ease. “So she’s doing good?” “Doing good? That’s like the understatement of the year. It’s like she walked into our lives at the exact, precise moment.” Her eyes were wide, her hands dancing in the air as she tried to explain how she felt about Joey. “You’re not gonna get all new age on me, are you?” She pinched his side, biting back a laugh. “And what if I am?” He held up his hands in protest, laughing that boisterous laugh he used only when he was with her. “Just asking, blondie. Never any harm in asking.” “Then what would you have to say about curiosity killing the cat?” “I’d say that the cat had to be pretty stupid to get killed. I on the other hand, am very intelligent.” He brushed off his arms, pretending to be above it all. He looked through his peripheral vision, noting her amused expression. “You’re in awful good mood today.” She held his chin, turning it up so that he was looking at her. He shrugged, trying to appear casual. “Same old, same old.” “You sure? You’ve been so happy these last couple of weeks, I just wanna know what’s been causing it so we can keep you happy all the time.” Maria knew that she was sort of baiting him into saying that it had to do with Joey and Jamie appearing in their lives. She felt bad for doing it, but she wanted him to admit that in the time that they had known them, Joey and Jamie had somehow brought an extra ray of sunshine in their lives. It sounded utterly, and completely cornball, but it was true. Regardless of the age differences between them, they managed to get along well. Jamie brought a smile to Michael’s lips that Maria had never even seen before. It made her heart burst that a four year old could hold such a sweet spot in Michael’s heart. It was enough to make her want to repay the favor. Michael’s eyebrow quirked, his lips twitching. “What’ve you got up your sleeves?” He crossed his arms across his chest, his eyes narrowing playfully. “That twinkle in your eye……I can practically see the wheels in your head turning.” He made a circular motion with his finger, bringing it up to his temple. Maria’s nose scrunched up, her hands defiantly resting on her hips. “And what if I was?” He couldn’t help but chuckle, her stance reminding him of Jade. It was uncanny how Jade was so much like Maria, and Kyle, but at the same time maintained a unique, quirky, personality of her own, just like her sister. He hooked his thumbs into his apron tie, rocking back on his heels. “Then, I say, share with the class.” He closed the gap between them, twining her hair between his fingers. “Tell me,” he said softly. The moment he had stepped closer, giving her his infectious Guerin grin, she was a goner. Her stance slackened, her body molding to his. “Do you like Joey?” “Like Joey?” “Yeah. I mean, do you like having her and Jamie around?” The smile he reserved only for Jamie, crossed his lips. “Yeah. They brighten up the place, dontcha’ think?” She played with the apron tie that hung around his neck. “You like them enough to consider them friends?” “Sure.” He looked down at her, his eyebrows knotting in confusion. “What’s this about?” Maria let out a heavy sigh, preparing to let him in on her plan. *************** Max stepped out of the elevator, carrying a picnic basket. He walked the familiar hall to Liz’s office, when a male voice stopped him. “The lab is closed, sir. We open up at nine tomorrow.” Josh stepped out of his office, regarding the man. Max turned around, frowning when he didn’t recognize the guy. “Actually I’m here to see my wife.” Josh stood up a little straighter when he recognized Max. He tried to play it cool, holding out his hand. “You must be Liz’s husband. I’m Josh. Just got transferred.” Max eyed him warily, not at all liking the guy. He was sending off some weird vibe that made his senses stand on alert. He took Josh’s hand, shaking it firmly. He felt his teeth grinding, when Josh squeezed his hand hard, so he squeezed right back. They smiled at each other, but their eyes were cold, both of them trying to establish their turf. Had it not been for Liz’s angelic voice floating down the corridor, they would have continued on with the intense hand shake. “Max?” Max let go of Josh’s hand so suddenly, that Josh stumbled back. Every angry muscle in Max’s body relaxed the moment he caught sight of Liz. She stood by her office, her hair hanging loosely from a messy bun. What he wouldn’t do to run his fingers through it. He smiled, acting as if she were the only person there. “I thought I heard voices out here.” She walked towards him, grinning like crazy. “What are you doing here?” She eyed the picnic basket in his hands, her eyes tinted with an excited gleam. “And what’s that?” He lowered the basket to the floor, his finger brushing an errant strand of hair away from her face. He pulled her close, whispering in her ear. “Well, since you said you couldn’t make it to dinner, I thought I’d bring dinner to you.” Liz felt her heart race, her face inching closer to his neck. She licked her lips, accidentally tasting the warm skin on his neck. She let out a throaty laugh when she felt his body tremble, the muscles in his chest, twitching under her fingertips. “Where are the kids?” “At my sister’s. They agreed to keep them all night.” His hand danced teasingly down her back, coming to rest just above her ass. “ All night?” She pulled back, looking into his glorious amber orbs, her own darkening with desire. “And what could we possibly do without the kids all night, all alone.” He gave her a mischievous grin, his forehead leaning against hers. “I think I could come up with a few things.” Her finger dipped into the collar of his shirt, gently tugging on it as she bit her lip, her smile turning roguish. “Just a few things?” As Max leaned down to finally take her sweet lips, a rather loud and annoying voice cleared their throat. “AHEM!” Josh pretended to cough, trying to think of something to get them to stop with the PDA’s. If he wasn’t so into Liz, he would’ve enjoyed the free show, but he would much rather be on the receiving end of her sultry looks, and her husky laugh. Not to mention how much he’d loved to feel her petite body against his. If looks could kill, Josh Harper would’ve been a dead man. Max glared at him, his jaw clenching as he pulled Liz to his side. His hand came to rest on her hip possessively, making no qualms about who Liz belonged to. Liz gave Josh her share of death glares, before ushering Max to her office. “C’mon. We should eat that before it gets cold.” Max nodded, but noticed how Josh continued to stare at them. As Liz walked back to her office, Max quickly grabbed her wrist, his lips latching onto hers, their mouths making sweet love to each other. Liz let out a whimper, her body going limp against Max’s as he devoured her lips ravenously. Her knees buckled beneath her, but as always, he was there to catch her. He tilted her head back, trying to reach the deepest, darkest recesses of her mouth. He felt her grip his shoulders tightly, her chest arching forward. Unknowingly, his hands wandered down her back, finally cupping her ass, bringing her heat into contact with his hardness. “Maaax…” It was meant to come out as a warning, but she knew she wasn’t kidding anyone. She liked the fact that Max was staking his claim, making it crystal clear to Josh that she wasn’t on the market, and would never be again. As soon as Max heard her moan, he pulled back, his face red, his lips swollen, and his chest heaving as he picked up the picnic basket. He placed a hand on the small of Liz’s back, leading her to her office. They had given Josh enough of a show. Before he closed the door behind him, Max gave Josh a pointed glare, daring the other man to fight a lost battle. Josh’s gaze skittered, before quickly skulking back into his office. So, that’s who his competition was. Part 31D *************** Courtney’s feet dragged against the carpeted steps as she trekked the distance towards the bedrooms. She had had another long night at the hospital and all she wanted to do was kiss the boys goodnight before curling up into bed with Kyle. It was one of those pleasures that most people took for granted, but it was the moments that she lived for because those were the times when they were a real family. Months had passed since Chris and Carrie’s accident. The transitional period was tough, and both she and Kyle had been put the test. Their love and commitment to each other had been tried, over and over again, and with the help of their dearest friends, and loving family, they had seemingly pulled through. After Michael and Maria returned from their honeymoon, she and Kyle had gotten married. It was a small and simple wedding, but it was always how she had pictured it. She couldn’t thank Maria enough for going out of her way to help her and Kyle out, but then again, she couldn’t really say she was all that surprised. Throughout their years growing up, she had been privy to the little group of theirs. First, it had been Maria and Liz. Their mothers had been good friends, so naturally, their daughters were too. Then, Alex joined the duo. They were all in kindergarten, and all of them were waiting to be picked up from school. All of the parents had come and gone, and yet, there was no sign of Liz or Maria’s parents. Both girls were worried, and even more so since the sky had turned dark, the clouds looming overhead. Just as the raindrops seemed to trickle down, Alex seemed to appear out of nowhere, holding a huge golf umbrella. He walked to them, awkwardly holding the humongous umbrella. Wordlessly, he held the umbrella over the two girls, giving them that Alex grin. Since then, the three of them were joined at the hips. Kyle was the next to join the group. His father and Amy Deluca began a tentative relationship, which lead to a beautiful marriage. They all seemed to fall into pace with each other, and they just fit. The last to join was Michael. He seemed to be the odd piece of the puzzle, the loner. He had always been quiet and wore a scowl on his face 24/7. It wasn’t until he was made to sit next to Maria in class, did the trouble begin. The two of them teased each other mercilessly, as only Michael and Maria could. He and Kyle made it their sole mission to make Maria’s life as miserable as possible. The five of them grew up together. Courtney watched them from the outside, wondering if there was ever going to be a time in her life that she would find people like them, or maybe even dare to hope that she could be friends with them. They had always been nice to her, greeting her when they passed each other in the halls. Never in a million years would she ever have thought that Kyle Valenti had a crush on her. Every time that they were near, she noticed how flustered he would get and quickly leave. She had always thought that it was because he didn’t like her, but boy was she wrong. Then senior year rolled around, and the Evans twins walked into their lives, bringing them all full circle. She had never expressed this out loud, but Max and Noah held a very special place in her heart. Had it not been for Max needing help with chemistry, she doubted she would have, or make that Kyle never would’ve found the courage to talk to her. And Noah….well, he was just the little matchmaker. She giggled when he used to call Kyle, Lyle. Somehow, this cute little boy always managed to bring them together. Without realizing it, she had made it up the stairs. She silently padded to the boys room, her heart melting as they slept in their beds, soundly. She sat between them, brushing the dark hair from their heads, kissing them both on their rosy cheeks. It saddened her a great deal that Carrie was no longer there with them to raise the boys. She and Kyle had been thrust forward into parenthood, when they had hardly discussed starting a family of their own. But regardless of the situation, she and Kyle accepted responsibility. She knew without a doubt that the love that she and Kyle felt for the boys was akin to having given them life themselves. A soft rustling behind her made her turn, her lips curling into a gentle smile. Kyle yawned, his arms stretching above his head. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes, giving Courtney a dopey grin. “Hey you. When’d you get in?” He walked into the room, sitting beside her, placing a sweet kiss on her forehead. She leaned into his touch, her body limp with relaxation. “Just a few minutes ago.” She buried her face in the crook of his neck, sighing as she was met with his familiar scent, calming her to the core. “I missed you.” He rubbed her arm aimlessly, just reveling in the fact that she was there, in his arms, finally. “You hungry? I could order something.” Courtney laughed softly, her hand resting on his chest. She loved how he worried about her, always wanting to take care of her. Even though he wasn’t offering to cook, something he still didn’t know how to do, he was looking for a means to an end. It definitely warmed her heart. “No thanks. I’m good. I had dinner with Liz.” He smiled. “That’s good.” Just as quickly as the words fell from his mouth, did he frown. “You had dinner with Liz?” He glanced at the clock. “What’s she still doing at work?” “Working. I actually didn’t want to leave her there all alone with her new coworker. He seemed pretty creepy.” Her hands clenched as she thought about how big of a jerk Josh really was. Alarmed, Kyle sat back. “Creepy, how? He didn’t like do anything to the two of you did he?” Courtney watched the fiery protectiveness light Kyle’s blue eyes. If she wasn’t so disturbed by Josh, she would felt all warm and tingly that Kyle was so protective, but this was another time, and definitely another place. “He’s apparently very friendly with the female staff.” Kyle’s jaw clenched in anger. “That’s sexual harassment. Did he try anything with the two of you?” “Kyle…” Courtney bit her lip, wondering if she had done the right thing with telling Kyle. “Liz and I are big girls. We can handle ourselves.” “That’s not….I’m not trying to imply that the two of you are helpless. I just, if this guy is doing something he shouldn’t- “Liz and I have been very clear that we are not playing any of his games. He pushes it any further than that, then you can bet that Liz and I will be the first to file a complaint.” Kyle nodded, but he still had an uneasy feeling in the pit of his stomach. If Liz was still there by herself with that jerk…… He stood up, reaching for the phone. He furiously dialed the number to Max’s, his foot tapping impatiently against the carpet. He cursed under his breath when he heard the machine pick up. You’ve reached the Evans residence. We’re unavailable right now, so please leave a message after the beep. “Max! Pick up, it’s Kyle……Pick up the phone, Max, it’s important…..” He waited a few more minutes, finally realizing that his attempts were futile. He banged the phone down, then thought to call Liz. He picked up the phone again, waiting for her to pick up. He was startled to hear a male voice on the other end. “Hello” “Sorry, I think I got the wrong number.” He made ready to hang up, but stopped when the voice spoke. “Kyle?” “Max? What are you doing there?” “Actually, I was bringing dinner to Liz. Was there something you needed?” Kyle smiled, happy to know that Liz wasn’t alone. “Hey, you’re gonna take her home, right?” “Yeah. She’s busy as a bee right now, but as soon as she’s done, we’re gonna eat, then straight home.” There was a slight pause. “Is there something wrong?” Kyle sighed heavily. “Look, I just wanted you to watch out for some whack job named- “Josh?” “How did you know?” “I’ve already had the displeasure of meeting the guy. Let me tell, he’s some piece of work.” Kyle felt the hairs on his neck stand as he listened to the hardness in Max’s voice. If he disliked this guy before, loathe wasn’t even a strong enough word to use now. If the guy put Max at unease….. “Max, just be careful. I heard the guy’s a creep.” “Thanks for the warning. I appreciate you calling to check up on Liz.” “No problem. Just… you guys to be safe.” There was another pause before they bid goodnight. Kyle wiped a heavy hand down his face, surprised to see Courtney standing there watching him. “What?” “Have I told you how much I love you?” She sidled up to him, hugging him close. “No?” He wasn’t sure where she was going with this, but he definitely wasn’t complaining. “Well, I love you. Sooo much.” She kissed him deeply, expressing without words how she felt. Kyle’s knees knocked together, his head slightly fuzzy as she kissed him breathless. “Kyle?” “Hmmm?” His eyes were closed, his body swaying slightly from side to side. “Do you love me?” His eyes flew open, his blue eyes a shade darker, his voice a notch deeper. “Of course. I love with all my heart, Courtney, and even that isn’t enough.” She gave him a mischievous smile. “Wanna show me?” Kyle smiled slowly, nodding eagerly as he followed her into the room, the door shutting tightly behind them. Part 31E Rated: NC-17 ***************** Liz bumped the file cabinet closed, clapping her hands together in triumph. “All done.” She spun on her heel, turning to face Max to suggest that they dig into what he had brought, when her jaw fell open to the scene before her. She brought a trembling hand to her mouth, her head shaking disbelievingly at her husband. The floor of her office had been transformed into an intimate picnic for two. Max had spread out a checkered picnic blanket, two plates filled with Max’s special chili, one for him, and one for her. The middle was adorned with white roses, her favorite. And on the side, a large chocolate cake glistened in the dim light. Max was sitting on his heels, reaching into the basket. He pulled out a candle, reaching into his pocket for a lighter. Once the flame was ignited, he smiled, holding out a hand towards Liz. “Care to join me?” Liz sank onto the blanket wordlessly, her eyes wide with awe. “You’ve thought of everything.” She fingered the smooth petals of the white roses, bringing them up to her nose for a whiff of their sweet scent. She placed them back down, scooting closer to Max. She sat up on her knees, her arms wrapping around his neck loosely. “I didn’t even see you put this together.” His fingers found their way into her silky tresses, burying themselves deep as he gave her scalp a gentle massage. He pulled out the pen that held her hair together, letting her hair fall over her shoulders like a chocolate waterfall. “You were busy working, and I didn’t want to disturb you.” Liz felt herself melting against his gentle caresses, her teeth sinking into the soft flesh of her bottom lip, trying to sustain the moan desperately wanting to erupt from her lips. He was way too skilled in knowing where all her hot spots were, but she found herself smiling because she knew that that was never a bad thing. “What’s so funny?” He smiled despite himself, his body leaning forward, his eyes closing as her scent invaded his nose. His nose bumped her earlobe, his cheek nuzzling the smoothness of her skin. “Nothing.” Her voice came out in a breathy moan, her dexterous fingers working down the front of his shirt. “It’s just, sometimes…..I think you can bring me to orgasm alone with your voice.” Max took in a sharp intake of breath, the desire flowing deeply through his veins. He felt her giggle next to his ear before she ripped his shirt over his head, his chest heaving at the quickness she possessed. She reached for the button on his jeans, but he stopped her with a heavy hand. “You’re supposed to be eating.” She gave him a wry grin, shaking off his hands to pop the button open, the sounds of his zipper being pulled down and his erratic breathing filling the silence. “Who says I won’t be?” He felt a tightening in his groin, beads of sweat accumulating on his forehead. Her words invoked a million heated flashes of their tangled limbs moving against each other with a languid pace, the sweat rolling of their bodies, making their bodies shine in the candlelight. As much as he wanted to make every one of those thoughts become a reality, he felt a nagging voice in the back of his head. “Liz…..” He groaned when she slipped her tiny hand into his open jeans, her delicate fingers working their magic on his aroused flesh through the cotton of his boxers. “We….there’s….your office…..can’t…uhm….” His tongue snaked past his lips, wetting them furiously. “Yes, Max?” The tone of her voice was slightly teasing, but sultry in every way. She knew the power she had over him, and she planned on using every dirty trick in the book. “Liz…ahhh….” Just when he thought he was making progress, her fingers slipped through the hole in his boxers, the pads of her fingers scorching his skin. He bit into his lip, so much so that he was startled to taste the tangy metallic flavor of blood. He open his eyes halfway, unable to do more than that. He held her wrist firmly, but didn’t stop her movements. “We can’t….not here, in your office.” She gave him that adorable pout of hers, her long eyelashes batting softly against her cheeks. Her hand slipped from his pants, coming to rest on his jean clad thigh. “Why not?” she whined petulantly, her hand gripping his thigh tightly. “B-because….” He was finding it extremely difficult to find a good argument, when she sat up, undoing the buttons of her blouse. His mouth hung open, his eyes trained on each piece of skin she revealed. Liz pulled her blouse away, standing up to kick off her shoes. She toyed with her zipper, finally shimmying out of her skirt. She kicked them off to the side, slowly sinking down on Max’s lap. She ran her fingers through his hair, giving his scalp the same lavish treatment he had given hers. “Give me one good reason why we shouldn’t make love right here, right now, and I promise to put all of my clothes back on.” He tried to keep his eyes trained on hers, but somehow, he couldn’t help but let them drift to her very full breasts. She saw where his eyes were, and she couldn’t help but grin. She moved forward, pushing her breasts further into his line of vision, before yanking his head up. She smiled at him sweetly, her hips slowly undulating against his. “Just one reason, Max…..Just one.” She bit her lip, her eyes closing in sweet agony as she grinded herself against him shamelessly. His hands hovered over her waist, obviously fighting with himself over what to do. Finally making a decision, he grabbed her hips, stilling their movement. His face was flushed, his voice coming out in pants. “We can’t do this here…..not in your office….it just wouldn’t be right.” As the words floated out of his mouth, it was obvious that even he couldn’t believe a word he was saying. Liz shook her head, her fingernail dragging across his pectoral muscles, scratching the tip of his nipple, grinning when it hardened at her touch. “This, coming from the guy who took me on the table in the back of the UFO Center when we were in high school.” She clicked her tongue against the roof of her mouth, bending close to his ear so that her breath tickled his skin. “You know, if I didn’t know any better, I’d think that you just didn’t want me….” She reached a hand between their bodies, cupping his hardness possessively. “But it’s obvious that’s not the case here.” Her teeth latched onto his earlobe, sucking it into her mouth, delighting when his hips thrust up. “Are you telling me, that you don’t want to make love to me, right now?” Just like that, Liz found herself flat on her back with Max nestled between her legs. She was almost afraid to look into his eyes, worried that she might have taken her teasing too far when she heard his gravely voice. “You are gonna be the death of me.” He gave her a fiendish grin before tearing the rest of their clothes off. “But I definitely think it’s the way to go.” He claimed her mouth savagely, claiming her body just the same. The sounds of their simultaneous groans filled the tiny office, the echo of slick flesh slapping against each other as they worked themselves into a frenzy. “Mmmm…..right there……YES!……deeper…..deeper……harder……” She clawed at his back, her ankles locking around his waist, just above his butt. Max was incapable of a coherent word, so he just grunted, answering her pleas physically rather than with words. He felt ready to explode, ready to go out of his mind with the way Liz was making him feel. It didn’t matter how many times they had made love, every single time was a new experience all over again. He shoved his tongue in her mouth, his hands helping her hips meet his every thrust. There was no set rhythm, just the insane longing to fill one another completely, in the most intimate of ways. The end came tumbling upon them, their bodies rigid as waves pleasure rolled through their every bone, igniting every cell in their bodies to come alive. Max sank heavily in her body, his chest heaving. He opened his eyes, only to smile when he saw the sated look on Liz’s face. He kissed her damp brow, whispering softly in her ear. “You ready for the chili now?” She shook her head, licking her lips. “I think I’ve had about all the heat I can take.” She chuckled lightly when Max ducked his head, burying his face in her neck as he flushed a deep crimson. Her hand raised to caress his back gently, her legs wrapping tightly around him even more so. There wasn’t anywhere else in the world she wanted to be right now.