Part 8A ********** Liz hurried down the Evans’ driveway, holding Noah’s hand as she knocked on the door. She tilted her head to the side, looking into the window to see if Diane was coming. "Mom?" Diane opened the door, looking rather breathless. "Liz, honey. Come in." She ushered Liz and Noah inside the house, closing the door behind them. "Hi gramma!" Noah gave Diane a brief hug as he made himself comfortable on the couch. Liz smiled, opening her mouth to speak, only to be interrupted by the phone. Diane held her hand in the air, rushing to the kitchen. "I’ll be right back." Liz nodded, blowing air from her lips. She walked into the living room, sitting beside Noah as he fiddled with the tv remote. ************* Diane looked cautiously over her shoulder, making sure that Liz was out of ear shot. "Courtney?....Yeah, they just got here.......Don’t worry about it sweetie, I understand about work.....I’ll make sure Liz gets there.....Alright, bye!" She ran back into the living room, grabbing her purse. "Liz, honey. I know asked you to come over, but would it be alright if I left you here for 20 minutes? I need to pick up some things for Phillip, but I’ve got something on the stove..." Liz smiled, standing up with Diane. "That’s not a problem. 20 minutes right? Cos I have to meet up with Max and everyone else in like a half hour or so." Diane smiled, running out the door with keys in hand. "Thanks dear. I’ll be back!" She climbed in the car, intending to run the rest of Courtney’s errands. Courtney had been called in to work unexpectedly, so she had asked Diane to take over until she got through with work. She had a few things to pick up, then Diane would drop Liz off at her surprise baby shower. ************* McKenzie drove the small rent-a-car, watching closely for street signs and house numbers. Ed had left for work early that morning, leaving her all day with nothing to do. It was the perfect opportunity to put into motion what she had been wanting to do for a long time. She rounded the corner, turning onto Mulberry Lane. She stopped at the house that was supposedly Diane Evans’ house. Her plan didn’t really include a stop to see Diane, but she had driven to Max’s house, only to find it bustling with cars and people. Even she had more than enough sense than to barge in at that moment. She figured while she was still here, she could mend all of the broken fences. Not just with Noah and Max, but with Diane too. She sat in her car, taking deep breaths, trying to relax. She had a quiet conversation with herself, hoping to ease the tension in her body. Stepping out of the car, she walked up the steps slowly, her hand trembling as she reached for the door. She waited, not knowing she was expecting. As the door opened, she was greeted by a petite brunette, a smile on her face. "Can I help you?" This was definitely not what she was expecting. McKenzie faltered for a moment, thinking she had gotten the wrong house. "I’m not sure. Actually, I thought Diane Evans lived here?" She eyed the house, looking to see the number. Liz smiled wider, extending her hand. "You’ve got the right house. I’m Liz. Diane just stepped out for a moment. Would you like to wait?" McKenzie shook her head, intending to leave once she realized that it was Liz. The images that her PI had sent her did Liz no justice. She looked even more beautiful than the pictures she saw. A polar opposite to her Teresa. She was clutching her purse, stepping backwards to say that she would come back another time, when a six year old boy, clambered to the door. He latched himself onto Liz’s leg, tugging on her shirt. "Momma, come look!" Liz smiled at McKenzie, reaching down to untangle Noah from her leg. "Not right now precious. Momma’s a little busy." Noah nodded, stepping away from his mother. He looked at the woman at the door, his head tilting to the side curiously as he regarded her. McKenzie froze in her spot as her eyes locked with Noah’s. It was like looking into Tess’ eyes, only he had hazel eyes. She felt the urge to run, and never return. But a part of her wanted to stay, knowing now that she had laid eyes on him, she wouldn’t be able to walk away. Not this time. Noah grinned at her, waving a little. "Hi!" He scurried back into the house, leaving McKenzie to follow him with her eyes. The soft sound of Liz’s laughter broke McKenzie out of her haze. "I’m sorry about that. He’s just, very energetic." McKenzie forced a smile on her lips. "He’s yours?" Liz smiled a proud smile of a mother. "Yes, he is." The way she said it without hesitation, the determination in her voice made McKenzie sick. She was ready to leave now, not knowing what had possessed her to come in the first place. She had no right to be here. "Would you like to come in and wait? Diane shouldn’t be much longer now." Liz tried her best to convince the woman to stay. She had no idea why, but there was just something about the woman that seemed so familiar. McKenzie was torn. Swallowing past the lump in her throat, she nodded mutely, allowing Liz to lead her inside. "I’m sorry, what was your name again?" McKenzie let Liz lead her into the living room. "Mac. Diane and I, we go way back." Liz smiled as she perched herself on the couch. "You do look kind of familiar." She was about to say something else, but Noah came up beside her. He sat at her feet, his head leaning against her legs. Liz ran her fingers through his soft locks, kissing his head. McKenzie sat with silent envy at the close relationship that Liz had with Noah. She couldn’t help but try to picture the image of Liz and Noah with Tess sitting in Liz’s place. The way it should’ve been. ********* The front door flew open with Diane struggling with her purse. "Liz? Who’s car is that outside?" Liz smiled at McKenzie, standing up. "You have a surprise visitor." Diane walked into the living room, seeing another head. Her heartbeat sped up when she saw the blonde curls, her heart clutching when the figure stood up. "McKenzie..." McKenzie came to full height, as she tried to offer Diane a smile. "It’s been a long time." Diane dropped her bag, her stance threatening. "Not long enough." The venom in her voice was undeniable, the hate in her eyes glowing. Liz stood back, shocked to see Diane so callous with Mac. In the five years that she had known Diane, she had never really heard her so much as raise her voice. Right now she looked about ready to pounce. "Mom, Mac’s just- Diane cut her off, her eyes sending death rays towards McKenzie. "Mac? So what other lies have you been feeding Liz?" Liz tried to intervene. "Mom, Mac just said she was an old friend," she finished. Diane snorted. "Old friend? More like old nemesis." She turned to Liz. "Did she tell you who she really was?" Liz shook her head. "Her real name is McKenzie Harding. I bet she neglected to tell you that little bit of information. Am I right?" Liz clutched the arm of the seat behind her. "H-harding?" Diane grabbed McKenzie by her arm, leading her towards the door. "Get out of my house! If I ever hear or see you anywhere near my family ever again, I’ll do more than just kick you out on the street." McKenzie shook her head. "You’ve got it all wrong, Diane. I came here today in good faith." Diane gave a bitter laugh. "Good faith? You mean just like Max came to you in good faith?" She shook her head, her body in a rigid stance. "I was foolish enough to trust you with my kids before, only to have you throw that back in my face. I stepped back and took it all, and I never once stood up to you and Ed. But things are different now. I will not allow you to come here and stir things up for my kids. Max is my son, and Liz is my daughter now. If you come near them ever again, I’ll see to it that you never see the light of day again!" Diane grabbed the door, slamming it in McKenzie’s face. She leaned her head on the door, her whole body trembling. "Mom?" Part 8B ************ “Mom?” Liz took a tentative step closer towards Diane. She had no idea what to think. She didn’t know what she would be more surprised by. Diane’s lioness act, or Mac showing up unexpectedly? Either way she was confused, her emotions running around like crazy. Diane placed a shaky hand on the door, steeling herself before turning around to face Liz. She noticed that Noah had gotten up, his eyes filled with fear. It was not her intention to scare Liz or Noah, but seeing McKenzie brought up bad memories, leaving a bitter taste in her mouth. “Noah, honey. Why don’t you go upstairs to your daddy’s old room and play with some toys?” Noah had made his way over to Liz, clinging desperately to her pants leg. Liz kneeled down beside him, ushering him up the stairs. “Go on, honey. You heard gramma.” Noah looked reluctant to leave Liz and Diane alone, but went up the stairs at his mother’s request. Liz felt dizzy as she stood up. She grabbed hold of the closest piece of furniture, trying to steady herself. Diane ran to her, helping her to sit down. “Sit down Liz.” Liz only nodded, her head still feeling a little light. She looked into Diane’s eyes, the brown color clouded with questions. Diane patted her hand. “I’ll tell you everything. Just give me a minute to call Max, ok?” She walked into the kitchen, holding the cordless in her hand. “Hello?” “Max, it’s mom.” “Oh, hey mom. How’s Liz?” “Max I think you should come over, there’s something- “I’ll be right there.” Diane was met with a click as Max hung up on her. She dialed the number to Liz’s intending to inform Isabel to cancel the baby shower. Today was definitely not a good day for a party. *********** Kyle looked panicked as Max walked to his car. “Max, you can’t leave!” “Out of my way, Kyle!” Max pushed past Kyle, running down the driveway to his jeep. Kyle ran up to him, standing in front of the door so that he couldn’t get in. Max towered over Kyle, all the play in his eyes from earlier, gone. “Either you step out of my way Kyle, or I will physically remove you. I don’t want to do that- “But you will anyway.” Kyle rolled his eyes, stepping to the side. “Fine, but remember, hurricane Deluca will be after you!” He yelled as Max drove away. Kyle shook his head, knowing that it was inevitable. “Why do I always end up in these situations?” He muttered to himself, as he walked back into the house. ***************** Diane walked back into the living room to comfort Liz, but the front door burst open with Max thundering through. “LIZ?” His eyes danced wildly as he looked for her. When he caught sight of her on the couch, he ran, sweeping her up into his arms. “Liz,” he breathed into her hair. Liz buried her face in Max’s shirt, hoping to lose herself in it. They stood that way until Diane stepped into the room. “We have a lot to talk about.” Max pulled away from Liz, but not letting go of her completely. He hugged her to his side, his brow etched with worry. “What’s going on?” Diane sat down, suddenly feeling lost. She didn’t even know where to begin. Realizing that Diane was just in as much shock as she was, Liz spoke, hoping to get some answers herself. “Someone came by to see your mom today.” “Who?” Max’s brow furrowed as he wondered why two of the most important people in his life were so upset by a visitor. “McKenzie Harding stopped by. I wasn’t home, so she came in and talked to Liz.” Diane looked into Max’s eyes, almost as if she were asking for forgiveness for not being there with Liz. “WHAT!?!” The booming of Max’s voice echoed in the house. He turned to Liz, clutching her arms. “Are you ok? Did she say something to you?” He hugged her again, running his hands down her body as he tried to see if she was really alright. He crushed her against him, his thoughts running mad. “Where’s Noah?” He pulled away, his eyes scanning the room for his son. “Max, calm down. He’s upstairs.” Liz stroked his arm, trying to soothe him a little. Max ran a frustrated hand through his hair. “What the hell was she doing here? What did she want?” Liz shrugged her shoulders. “I don’t know. Your mom threw her out before she got a chance to talk.” Max crossed his arms nodding. “You did the right thing, mom.” Liz looked shocked. She had never seen Max so angry, so upset. “How can you say that, Max?” Max looked at her, his voice rising slightly. “McKenzie Harding is probably up to no good. Why else would she be here?” Liz felt herself shiver at the coldness in Max’s eyes. Even when he had talked about Tess’ family, he was never angry as he was now. She didn’t know what changed that now. “You don’t know that. Maybe she just wants to make amends?” “She’s had a lot of time to make amends. She can’t just expect to come here after six years and expect us to welcome her with open arms.” Liz felt tears sting her eyes. “You’re not even gonna give her a chance?” Max’s lip trembled as he spoke. “It was fine if it were just me. I’d let her walk all over me like a doormat and I wouldn’t care, because I still feel responsible. But it isn’t just about me anymore. You’re my wife now. Noah’s old enough to get hurt and to remember. I am not dragging you guys into this.” Liz squared her shoulders. “We already are a part of this. Can’t you just give her the benefit of the doubt, and assume that she’s here because she wants to have a relationship with Noah?” “I will not let McKenzie Harding or her husband hurt my son.” Liz felt like she had been kicked in the stomach. The tears fell down her cheeks as she spoke. “I see, so he’s just your son? It doesn’t matter that I’ve raised him since he was two, because I’ll never really be his mother, right Max? I’m just a substitute for McKenzie‘s daughter, right?” Max shook his head, approaching Liz. “That’s not what I meant.” Liz wiped angrily at her tears. “You know, you of all people should know how important it is for someone to be given a second chance. But I guess you’re not really who I thought you were.” Max reached out to touch her, but she jumped away, almost as if she loathed his touch. “Liz...” The agony in his voice sliced through her heart, but she didn’t let it get to her. She was too hurt, too confused to think about anything but getting away. “I have to get out of here.” She ran out of the house towards her car. Max pounced after her, but she was too fast. He screamed in the open air, running back inside to get his keys. “Mom, watch Noah. I’m going after Liz.” Diane was stunned speechless. Of all of the scenarios she had pictured happening, this was not one of them. If anything she thought this would bring Max and Liz closer together, but it seemed to be tearing them apart. “Gramma?” Noah stood on the steps, his face full of confusion as he just witnessed the confrontation between his parents. Diane ran to him, enveloping him in a hug. “Where’s momma? Why was she crying?” He turned his concerned eyes to the door that his mother had fled through. Isabel and Phillip came through the open door. “Was that Max tearing down the road?” Phillip felt the hairs on his neck stand up as he looked at his wife. “What happened?” Part 8C *************** “What happened?” Phillip stepped into the house, closing the door behind him. Diane held Noah in her arms, walking towards Isabel. “Honey, could you take Noah for a walk?” Isabel was ready to protest, but Diane shook her head. “Please? I really just need a few minutes with your father. I promise to tell you everything, seeing as this concerns you too.” “Fine.” She took Noah’s hand, leading him through the front door. Phillip waited until they were out the door before he spoke again. “What’s going on, Di?” Diane blew out a breath as she tried to come to terms with what just happened. “Di?” “McKenzie Harding showed up at our house.” “WHAT?!?” Phillip wore the same expression on his face that Max wore just minutes ago when he found out. He raked a hand through his hair, his feet pacing the carpeted floor. “Tell me that you kicked her holier than thou act out of here?” He pinned his wife with a look. She rubbed his arm, trying to offer some comfort. “Don’t worry. I did.” Phillip began biting his nails, a nervous habit he hadn’t done in years. “What the hell did she want?” Diane just shrugged her shoulders. “I don’t know. We barely got past the pleasantries before I made her get out.” He had resumed his pacing, only to stop again when he realized something. “Is that why Max was tearing out of here like a madman?” “Max and Liz had a misunderstanding, so Max went after her.” Phillip kicked the coffee table, the magazines falling to the floor. “DAMN IT!” “Phillip.....” He continued to kick at it until his foot grew sore, his body sliding to the floor. “Damn them to hell, Diane. Who does McKenzie think she is, waltzing in here after six years of nothing......So help me if Ed shows his mug around here......I won’t be held responsible for my actions.” Diane wanted to say something along the lines of being reasonable, but she didn’t feel reasonable. She shared the same frustrations and anger that Phillip felt for the Hardings. “You know it was bad enough that they made Max feel like he was responsible for what happened, but to treat Izzie like she was in on the whole thing........I’m not going to make the same mistakes I made with Max and Isabel with Liz and Noah.....Not this time.......” ************** Max rounded a corner, trying to keep up with Liz. He realized fairly quickly that she was heading out towards the desert where they used to sneak some time alone when they still lived under their parents’ roof. Liz parked her car, stepping out to get some air. She hadn’t realized that Max had followed her all of the way, but the screeching of the jeep’s tires behind her alerted her to his arrival. She took a quick glance in his direction, picking up her pace. “LIZ!” Without turning around, she broke out into a full run. “Just go away, Max!” It didn’t matter that he had heard her voice or that he could see that she was doing her best to get away from him, but he knew that he couldn’t just walk away. He ran after her, his long strides bringing him to her in a matter of seconds. She kicked at him, trying to pull herself from the comfort of his arms. “Let me go!” He pulled her into a vice-like grip, his breath in her ear as his tears trickled down. “You know I can’t do that......please don’t send me away.” Liz slapped her hands against his chest, the words refusing to come out of her mouth because she knew that it really wasn’t what she wanted. She was already where she wanted to be. She was home. Home was being in Max’s arms, and for the first time in her life, it frightened her. It frightened her because in the last five years, Max and Noah had become the centers of her universe. They had become the basis of her existence, and she was afraid that without them, she would have no idea who she really was. Without her, they would still be Max and Noah. She was just a replacement. Today was a slap in the face, making her realize that Max and Noah had belonged to someone else. That had it not been for unfortunate circumstances, she would not be here today. “Liz....” The agony in his voice shattered her resolve, making her crumble in his arms. She slumped against him, her own voice hoarse as she spoke. “Don’t do this.” He pulled away slightly, his hands flanking the sides of her face. “Don’t do what? Love you? Fight for you?.......You’re my wife Liz. How can I not do this?” Her lower lip trembled as she looked away from his gaze. “I wouldn’t even be your wife today if Tess was still alive. I’m just a poor substitute for the real thing.” Max grabbed her by the shoulders, shaking her a little. “DON’T YOU EVER SAY THAT!” He sobbed, his grip on her weakening. “Why are you punishing me?” His voice sounded so defeated, so hurt. Liz looked up at him, her vision still blurred by her tears. “I’m not punishing you, I just, I hate this whole situation.” She threw her arms in the air. “Seeing McKenzie today, it made me realize that there used to be a time that you and Noah didn’t belong to me. That if Tess was still here, she would be your wife. She would be the one giving you your second child.....not me.” Max shook his head. Liz swiped at her nose. “Do you even know what that must have felt like for McKenzie? To see me with her daughter’s son, knowing that it should be Tess instead of me?” Max ground his teeth, his jaw hard as granite. “I don’t care how she feels. She’s had every opportunity in the world to bridge the gap between her and her grandson. I didn’t even expect her to be civil to me, but she was the one who turned her grandson away. Granted her husband was a little more vocal and threatening, but she just sat back and let it happen. I wouldn’t have cared if they kicked and spat at me, but Noah was just a baby. For goodness sakes, he was their flesh and blood, yet they thought he was Satan’s spawn or something, just because I fathered him. If you’re asking me to give her a chance, I don’t see how I can. Like you said before, Noah and you are a part of this now......I am not going to allow the two of you to feel the pain and rejection that Isabel and I had to go through....I was just a kid back then, but you, Noah, this baby,” he lay his hand on her tummy, gently caressing it. “The three of you are my family, and there is no way in hell that I’m just gonna stand back and let them screw up everything.” Liz watched as that weary look in Max’s eyes returned. She hadn’t seen that look since they were seniors in high school, when they were bordering on a romantic relationship. He looked so wounded. She grabbed him, hugging him to her chest. The tremors in his body consumed him, his stance of anger fading away as he melted in her arms. She kissed his temple her arms running down his body. “What did they do to you?” Part 8D ************* “What did they do to you?” Liz’s question made Max go still. It wasn’t that he wanted to keep secrets from her, but he didn’t want her to know what it was really like. “Like I said before, they just didn’t want anything to do with us.” He wiped his eyes with the back of his hand. Liz shook her head, not buying it. “I don’t believe that for a second, and I don’t think you do either.” Max started grinding his teeth as he began to pace. “What’s the point in rehashing the past?” “Make me understand, Max. Obviously, you’re not telling me something here.” Max slumped to the dirt floor dejectedly, his head hung low. “You really wanna know?” Liz just moved to sit beside him, her arms coming around his shoulders. She kissed his cheek, giving him support. Max closed his eyes, trying to garner strength from Liz. He bent his head, kissing her hand before he spoke. “I know that I told you the condensed version of what happened, but I think it’s time for the unedited version.” Liz tightened her grip, whispering in his ear. “Whenever you’re ready. I’m listening.” Max nodded, his eyes taking on a distant look as he remembered. “I know that I told you that Isabel and Tess were best friends. They used to sleep over at each other’s houses, and basically did everything together. Me, I was just Isabel’s dorky twin brother. I was shy, and I didn’t have too many friends. I think the two of them just felt sorry for me, so the three of us would hang out together. The truth is, Tess had a crush on me first. She would always be whispering to Isabel about me, trying to pry information out of her. Isabel told me about it, and I wasn’t sure how to feel. I liked Tess, but I never really thought about her that way. It was a little overwhelming for me because I was always so shy. I remember the other guys in junior high would envy me because I always got to hang out with Tess. She was like little miss popularity. We got together after our first junior high dance. Isabel had gotten asked to go, and Tess subtly hinted that she wanted me to take her, so I did. After that, we just spent so much time together that we just fell into a relationship that lasted through high school. I don’t think we were in love with each other at first, but we grew to love one another. Her parents used to say that it was great that Tess ended up with me, because I was such a model young person. I was a straight A student who was never in any trouble. Mrs. Harding loved Isabel. She used to say that Isabel was like her second daughter. I remember that they used to say that we were always welcome in their house.” He shook his head as he continued. “I guess you’re wondering why Tess and I even started a physical relationship?” Liz spoke quietly. “The thought did cross my mind. You’re like the average boy next door. The one you could bring home to mom. All else aside, it’s hard to picture that you would decide to lose your virginity at such a young age.” “The farthest we’d gone was second base. Tess said she wanted to move forward. Maybe it was just raging hormones on my part, or maybe it was because I believed that we would be together forever. So we went ahead with it. Our first time was so awkward and uncomfortable. We didn’t know what we were doing, we were kind of just stumbling through the whole thing blindly. In our whole relationship, we had sex of a total three times. So you can imagine how we felt when we found out she was pregnant. We’d only had sex three times, once without protection, and she wound up pregnant. I guess it really is true, what they say about the one time you don’t use it. Anyway, we talked about our options. We both knew that we were incapable of taking care of a baby, but we couldn’t just give a part of us up for adoption. Tess didn’t want to tell her parents, she was so scared. We decided to tell Isabel who I think was just too shocked to feel anything. Both of our parents just lost it. The Hardings forbid me from seeing, and they told Isabel that she was no longer welcome in their home. They put Tess through home school while she was pregnant, trying to break all of our ties together. I remember how guilty I felt, because Isabel was dragged into it. That because of a mistake I made, she no longer had a best friend. When they would see us on the street, they wouldn’t even acknowledge us. It was as if we were invisible, like we didn’t exist. Right after Tess died, the Hardings were supposed to take Noah home, but they didn’t show up. Noah was left at the hospital with no one claiming him. The hospital called me, and so my parents and I took him home. We tried to get in contact with the Hardings, but they didn’t take our calls. We would go to their house and knock on the door, but they would just ignore us. They wouldn’t even answer the door. I came by with Noah one day, but Ed came out yelling like a madman. He threatened to get a shot gun and shoot me if I didn’t leave them alone. He wouldn’t even look at Noah. I saw McKenzie standing by the door, and I pleaded with her, but she just closed the door. I tried a few more times to visit, but I was always met by Ed. I remember telling him to go ahead and shoot me, to beat me to a pulp so that it would make him feel better. So maybe that way, if I was dead it wouldn’t hurt so much. Ed just sneered at me and told me to get off his property. He said that he wouldn’t kill me because he wanted me to live with the guilt that I killed his daughter for the rest of my life. He said that Noah was a constant reminder of what I took from him, and he hoped that I suffered a long life, living with my mistakes. My family tried to go to Tess’ funeral service, but they wouldn’t let us in. Ed came to the church doors, yelling. My parents told me to leave, not wanting to cause trouble. You know, they wouldn’t even let Isabel stay. They hated her for something she had nothing to do with. They wouldn’t even acknowledge that she and Tess were best friends. That because she was my sister, Isabel was no longer seen as McKenzie’s second daughter. You know, I believe I deserved all of that. But I felt even guiltier because I pulled my whole family into the mess that I created. Because of me, they were treated like pariahs for something they didn‘t do.” Max cried against Liz’s shoulder, his hands curling in her shirt. “Oh, Max. No one deserves that. I had no idea it was that bad. I’m so sorry for putting you through that again.” She kissed his dark head, her hands roaming across his back in an aid to comfort him. Max wiped away at his tears grudgingly. “I can’t believe that I still let it get to me.” Liz tilted his chin, giving him a sad smile. “Max, this isn’t something you just get over. No one deserves what you had to go through. I understand. I won’t ask you to hear what McKenzie wants to say, if you don’t want to...I had no idea. I‘m sorry for hurting you like this, I guess I should learn to keep my mouth shut when I know nothing about the subject.” Max shook his head. “That was no fault of your own. I didn’t tell you. You have a big heart, Liz, and I know how you’re always willing to see the good in people. That’s what’s going on here.” Liz leaned her forehead against his, placing a tender kiss on his lips. “I know that this isn’t over yet, but maybe we should finish talking with your parents. I think I gave your mom a near heart attack with the way I ran out like that.” Max gave her a small smile. “I’ll follow you back.” Liz kissed their linked hands. “I fully expect you too.” Part 8E ************ Isabel sat on the park bench with Noah, her eyes glued to his sullen form. “Hey, pal. Why are you so blue?” Noah let out a breath, as his foot traced invisible patterns in the dirt. He looked up at Isabel with round eyes full of confusion. “Izzie? Why do mommas and daddys fight?” Isabel was a little taken back by his question. “Why do you ask, pumpkin?” Noah pulled his legs up on the bench so that he was sitting cross legged. “Momma and daddy were yelling at each other. And then momma left. She was cryin’ Izzie. Why was momma cryin?” Isabel pulled Noah to her. “Oh honey, I don’t know why your momma and daddy were fighting. But you know, that just because they’re fighting, it doesn’t mean they don’t love each other. Everyone fights, every once in a while...In fact, I bet you and Jade have gotten in a fight once or twice. Am I right?” Noah nodded. “She got mad at me cos I wouldn’t let her be wolverine.” “But just because you had that fight, you guys are still friends, right?” “Uh huh. Next time we played, she wouldn’t let me be the big truck. But I’m not mad.” Isabel smiled. “See honey, it’s just like that with your mom and dad.” Noah looked confused, his head tilting to the side. “You mean momma wouldn’t let daddy be the big truck? That’s why they were fighting?” Isabel bit back her laugh. “Not exactly. I’m just saying they have a reason for being upset, but they still love each other. They still love you.” Noah was silent for a moment before he spoke again. “Does gramma still love me?” Isabel felt her jaw drop to the floor. “Of course she does, honey. Why would you say something like that?” He just shrugged his shoulders. “I dunno know. Gramma was really mad at that lady, and she was yelling. It made my ears hurt.” He covered his ears to show Isabel just how it happened. “And then she told me to go upstairs to daddy’s old room. Izzie, I think gramma’s mad at momma. I don’t want them fighting.” Isabel just kissed his brow, running her fingers through his hair. She whispered softly in his ear, words of comfort, telling him that Liz and Diane still loved each other, just like Max and Liz did, despite whatever misunderstandings they had. She replayed Noah’s words in her head as she tried to piece together the information, wondering why most of her immediate family was up in arms at each other. Gramma was really mad at that lady, and she was yelling. “Noah, who was the lady you were talking about?” Noah looked up from where he was laying his head on Isabel’s side. “She told momma her name was Mac. She looked a lot like momma.” “She looked like Liz?” Noah shook his head. “No, my other momma.” He pointed up to the sky. “The one up there.” She told momma her name was Mac. She looked a lot like momma. No, my other momma. The one up there. Noah’s words tumbled around in Isabel’s brain, her heart beating wildly against her chest. “McKenzie Harding.” Her voice was monotone, almost as if she didn’t believe it, but every piece of the puzzle seemed to fit into place. “Omigod.” She stood up, pulling Noah with her. “C’mon honey. We gotta go back home.” ************* Max and Liz walked hand in hand up the Evans’ walkway, neither refusing to lose contact with the other. They stepped into the house, finding Diane and Phillip sitting on the floor, both of them locked into an embrace. Their position looked almost similar to their own, out in the desert. Diane was the first to look up, her frown turning into a smile as she saw how close Max and Liz were standing. Almost as if it were impossible for them not to be touching. “Is it ok to assume that... Liz smiled. “Everything’s ok. At least for now.” Diane breathed a sigh of relief. “I’m just glad everything’s ok. There’s nothing worse than pregnancy hormones.” Max and Liz started laughing, but stopped suddenly. “Did you tell them?” Liz asked a little hurt that Max told his parents without her. She had wanted it to be a family occasion. Well, more than anything, she wanted to be there when they first told them. “I didn’t.” Max was at a loss. He hadn’t said anything to anyone. Even though he was bursting at the seams to scream to the world that he was going to be a father again, he wanted Liz with him to share it. “Diane!” Phillip hissed as he hobbled onto his legs. Diane’s eyes grew wide, covering her mouth. “Oh my goodness. It was supposed to be a surprise.” “What was?” Liz asked. “Well, Noah sort of spilled the beans to Maria and the girls, and so we were going to have a surprise baby shower for you guys today.” Diane decided to come out and tell them. There really was no point in keeping secrets today. Max and Liz looked stunned for a moment, both of them replaying the events leading up to today, realizing why everyone was acting so weird. Phillip spoke up. “Just don’t tell Maria we told you. Or Izzie. They’ll never forgive us.” He tried to keep the mood light, knowing that they would have to have a big family discussion any moment. The four of them shared a laugh which died quickly when Isabel pulled the front door open, her hand gripping Noah’s. “We need to talk.” Part 8F *************** “We need to talk.” Isabel looked at her family, intent on finding out what was going on. “Momma!” Noah ran to Liz, clinging to her legs as if he were afraid that she would disappear if he didn’t hold on tight. “Noah!” Liz kneeled, capturing Noah into her arms, peppering his sweet skin with motherly kisses of affection. He tucked her long brown hair behind her ear, whispering so that only Liz could hear him. “You ok now momma?” Liz pulled away, looking into Noah’s concerned face. He had the same crinkle between his brows that Max had when he was worried about her. “Of course I’m okay, baby. Why would you think otherwise?” Noah placed a hand on her cheek, brushing away invisible tears. “You were cryin’. I don’t like it when you cry, momma. It hurts.” “Where does it hurt, baby?” He lay his palm flat against his chest where his heart lay. “In here.” He put his hand against Liz’s cheek again, giving her a loving smile. “No more tears momma. We still love you. ‘Specially daddy, even if he was yelling. He only yells cos he loves us soo much.” Liz pulled Noah against her chest, not wanting him to see her tears and get the wrong idea. “I’m sorry you had to see that, precious. But you’re right. Daddy still loves me very much.” Noah kissed her cheek, moving to Max who was only a few steps away. He tugged on Max’s pants leg, asking Max to carry him. Max obliged happily, kissing Noah’s cheek lightly. “I’m sorry that you had to see that too, little man. I wasn’t yelling at your momma because I was mad, but because I worry about her and you so much.” Noah just nodded. “I know.” Phillip placed a hand on Max’s shoulder. “Look, maybe we could save this discussion for tomorrow. Why don’t the three of you go home with Noah and your mom and I will fill Izzie in on what’s going on?” Max nodded, taking Liz’s hand in his. “Okay. I guess we’ll just see you guys tomorrow.” He gave his dad a quick hug, giving his mother a soft kiss on the cheek. He gave Isabel a small smile, patting her shoulder as he led his family out of the house. Isabel sat on the couch, her arms crossed. “Why didn’t you guys tell me that Mrs. Harding was here?” Diane was going to sit on the coffee table, but decided against it. Phillip had given it a good beating and she didn’t want to take her chances. “We were going to tell you, honey, but I just didn’t want Noah around to hear us talking negatively about McKenzie. It was bad enough that he caught Max and Liz yelling at each other, I just didn’t want him to see us any angrier than we already are.” Isabel nodded, still feeling a little numb. She wasn’t sure whether she was angry that McKenzie had shown up after all these years, or be happy that she seemed to be making an effort. “Did she say why she was here?” Diane looked to the floor, sitting beside Isabel as she wrapped an arm around her daughter. “No. I didn’t actually give her a chance to talk.” Isabel bit her lip. “Well, now that the shock has worn off a little, are you guys gonna hear her out?” Phillip crossed his arms. “I don’t really care what she has to say. That woman and her husband have caused this family nothing but grief. If they fall off the face the earth tomorrow, it wouldn’t bother me in the least.” “Dad! They’re people too, you know. Just like we feel things, they do too.” Isabel frowned, not really liking how angry her father was. As angry as she was, she felt that Hardings had a reason to feel the way that they did. Although what they did wasn’t right, they were still human beings with feelings. They were the ones that lost their daughter. Tess had only been her friend, and she was devastated. She couldn’t even imagine what it would’ve been like for the Hardings to lose their only daughter. “I don’t give a damn about how those people feel. Have you forgotten how they treated you and Max? And Noah? Six years of nothing, and then showing up out of the blue to claim remorse, I’m just not buying it. Ed and McKenzie Harding have cold hearts that pump lifeless blood. If they really cared so much, they would’ve known to stay away.” Isabel wiped the tears welling up in her eyes. She was just so confused. She had thought that they had all put this behind them, but it was obvious that they hadn’t. Although the last five years had been a blessing for all of them, they still harbored deep feelings of hurt, anger, and insecurities. Diane rubbed Isabel’s shoulder consolingly. “It doesn’t really matter how we feel about the situation. As much as I want McKenzie to stay out of our lives, I think the decision lies ultimately with Max and Liz. If they decide that they want to hear what McKenzie has to say, then that’s their decision.” Phillip opened his mouth to protest, but Diane spoke up again. “Look, I’m not happy about this situation either. But Max and Liz are adults. They’re Noah’s parents, and they can do whatever it is they feel is right. We may not agree with everything they do, but it’s their lives. They’re grown. They don’t need us to tell them what to do....They haven’t for a long time. The best we can do is support them.” Diane sighed, not really wanting to say a lot of what she had just said, but she knew in her heart that it was true. As much as her maternal instincts were on alert, wanting to protect her family from any harm, she had to let Max and Liz make their own decisions. They had made very wise decisions at such a young age, that she felt comfortable putting her faith in them. ****************** Max and Liz opened the door to their home, finding it decorated for a baby shower. A note was taped on the hall mirror in Maria’s handwriting. Sorry that the shower was a bust. I think I may be losing my touch with planning surprise parties.  j/k Anyways, I hope you’re ok, chica. And Max, if you’re reading this, take care of my girl. She is after all carrying precious # dos. Take care babes. You’re safe from hurricane Deluca for not attending your shower today. LOL. Although, you guys better show up for the next shower or else I really will unleash the hurricane.  Love, ‘Ria and the gang. Liz smiled, crumpling up the paper. She looked to Max, both of them sharing a look. They turned their gaze to Noah who had plopped himself on the couch, playing with one of the balloons. Together, they walked hand in hand, both of them taking a seat on either side of Noah. Max took the balloon from Noah’s hand, his voice low. “We need to have a talk, little man.” Noah just sat back patiently waiting for his parents to speak. “Honey, do you remember that lady at gramma’s today?” “Uh huh. She looked like my other momma.” He grinned, proud that he remembered. Max and Liz shared another look above Noah’s head. Liz reached for Max’s hand, giving it a soft squeeze, not really knowing if it was to comfort him or her. Max cleared his throat, his voice catching a little as he spoke. “Well, pal, that’s because that lady was your other momma‘s mother. She’s your grandmother.” Noah held out three fingers. “You mean I get three gramma’s?” Liz nodded. “Yes, sweetie.” Noah just grinned. “Cool.” Max swallowed past the lump in his throat. He wanted to be honest with Noah, but he didn’t want to have to explain why McKenzie had been missing for the past six years, and why she only decided to show up now. Noah slipped off the couch. “Can I go play in my room now?” Liz nodded, glad that Noah’s attention was so easily diverted. It would give her and Max some time alone to figure out how exactly how they were going to handle the situation. Max let his head fall back against the couch. “What am I supposed to tell him, Liz? What if he wants to meet her?” Liz gently stroked his cheek. “I don’t know what to tell you, Max. But I want you to know, that whatever you decide, I’ll be behind you 100%.” Max turned his head to Liz, gently shaking his head. “How in the world did I manage to end up with the most amazing woman in the world?” Liz blushed under his words and gaze. She dropped her head, her hair falling over her face. “I’m the one that lucked out.” Max tilted her chin up, giving her a tender kiss. “You’re wrong there.” Their eyes met, the love that they felt for each other, seeping through. Max heaved a heavy sigh. “Can we just hold off on talking about this for a couple of hours? I just....I just want to feel like everything we have is real...I just want to know that this isn’t some incredible dream that I’m having.” Liz smiled, kissing his forehead. “C’mon, then. We’ll see what Noah’s up to.” The two of them trudged up the stairs, going to Noah’s room. They found him playing with his toys on the floor. “Can we play?” Noah looked up, smiling. He held out his toy trucks, making sure to give Liz the biggest truck. He didn’t want her to get upset like Jade. The three of them played together, just enjoying being a family. None of them worrying about their immediate future, just basking in the love that their little family had. Noah’s little voice popped up, startling Max and Liz. “Where do babies come from?” Max dropped the truck in his hand, surprised at Noah’s question. He turned to Liz, looking for some help. Liz just chuckled, pulling Noah into her lap. “Well honey, babies.............. Part 8G *********** “Well honey, babies come from love. Your daddy and I love each other sooo much love, that we created a whole ‘nother person.” Liz looked over at Max’s pale face. She gave him a look, saying that he should say something too. Max swallowed convulsively. “Your mom’s right, pal. We had so much love between us, that we just didn’t know where to put it.” Liz bit her lip, trying not to laugh at Max’s obvious discomfort at the situation. She had to bite her tongue to stop herself from saying something silly. She had to give it to him, he definitely was trying. Noah squirmed against Liz’s lap, moving towards his toys, starting to play again. Liz scratched the side of her brow. “Honey? Don’t you have any other questions?” Noah just looked up, his hands stopping their movement. “No.” “That’s it?” Max sat up, thinking that it was all too easy. Noah didn’t cease his playing. “What’s what, daddy?” Liz smiled, placing her hand on Max’s shoulder. “Well, precious, your daddy just wants to make sure that you don’t have any other questions.” Noah just shook his head, smiling. “Can I have a snack?” Liz kissed the top of his head. “Sure honey. Let me go downstairs, and make you one.” She stood up, reaching her hand to Max. “Wanna help?” Max stole one last glance at Noah playing contentedly before taking Liz’s hand. As they walked down the stairs, Liz casually bumped his hip with hers. “We had so much love that we didn’t know where to put it?” Max covered his flaming face. “I know, I know, that was really bad. I just was expecting to have this talk for another couple of years.” Liz laughed. “Well, in case you don’t know where to put that extra love, you might wanna try under the bed. You know, seeing as everything ends up under there anywhere.” Max playfully glared at Liz. “Funny! You were the one that started that whole,” he made a wild gesture with his hands. “So much love thing.” Liz laughed some more. “Well, let’s be glad that he seemed to be happy with the answer that he did get.” They walked into the kitchen, hand in hand. “True.” *************** Alex held Isabel in his arms, his fingers gently running through her hair. “I’m so confused, Alex. I just don’t know how to feel.” She sobbed into his shoulder, her frame wracked with her troubled breathing. Alex just held her tighter, kissing her temple. “Well you don’t have to make a decision right now. You shouldn’t rush yourself. If you’re not ready, you’re not ready. But I do want you to know, that whatever you decide, I’ll be right there beside you.” Isabel just nodded against him, her arms holding onto him for dear life. “Alex, just hold me.” Alex smiled, moving to spoon against her. “I’ll play with your hair until you fall asleep.” Isabel turned around, giving him a light kiss. “I love you.” “Love you too, Iz.” ************** Max looked at Liz’s sleeping form. She looked so peaceful. He imagined angels to look like her, so serene, so at peace. He tossed to the side, reading the flashing red lights of the alarm clock. It was barely past 9, and he was too wired to sleep. Too many things had happened, making it hard for him to shut his eyes with being bombarded with images of today’s events. Making a quick decision, he slipped some pants on, scribbling a quick note. He placed the note on Liz’s bedside table, his lips placing a quick kiss on her forehead. ************* Max walked the lonely streets of Roswell, not really having a destination. He just wanted to feel the cool breeze against his face, hoping to clear his head. Unknowingly, he found himself outside of the Crashdown. He walked up to the glass, looking inside to find only a few customers. He saw Jeff wiping down the counter. Jeff looked up, smiling as he saw Max looking through the window. He waved him in, pointing to a swivel stool. Max smiled, walking inside of the restaurant, taking a seat at the counter. “Max.” “Mr. Parker.” Jeff shook his head, laughing. “Max, how many times do I have to tell you? It’s just Jeff.” Max chuckled, as he looked around his surroundings. “Sorry. I guess old habits die hard.” Jeff tossed the rag over his shoulder. “Speaking of, what are you doing here tonight? Liz doesn’t work here anymore, remember?” he teased. Max blushed a little at Jeff’s teasing. “I just, I needed to get some air.” Jeff leaned his elbows against the smooth counter top, his eyes meeting Max’s. “Does this have something to do with you guys not making it to the shower today?” Max nodded. “Yeah....some uh, some unexpected things popped up.” “What things?” Jeff raised an eyebrow, hoping to encourage Max to speak up. Max covered his eyes with his hands, his breaths becoming harsher. “Tess’ mother showed up at my mom’s today.” “What? Out of the blue, just like that?” “Yeah, just like that.” Jeff busied himself pouring a couple cups of coffee. “What did she want?” Max let out a heavy breath. “I’m not exactly sure.” Jeff pushed the warm cup in Max’s hand. “You don’t want to hear what she has to say?” Max gripped the warmness of the cup, his eyes following the swirls of steam coming from the coffee. “No. She’s already made it obvious how she felt. I can’t forget.” Jeff eyed Max from his the rim of his cup. “What are you going to do if Noah wants to meet her? What if he wants her to be a part of his life?” Max stared blankly ahead of him, before meeting Jeff’s eyes. “You think he’ll want to?” Jeff shrugged his shoulders. “I don’t know that, anymore than you do. I’m just asking a what if, question. I mean, don’t you want to be prepared for a situation like that?” Max began grinding his teeth in an attempt to squelch his anger. “I’d have to tell him no. I don’t want his innocent affections to be stomped on by her. I won’t allow it.” Jeff hid a small smile behind his cup, but it didn’t go unnoticed by Max. “What’s so funny?” Jeff put his cup down. “Nothing’s funny. Certainly not this situation. I just, it sorta reminds me of how torn I felt when I found out about you and Liz all those years ago. I had to go on blind faith that you had good intentions for my daughter, even though my extremely overprotective side wanted to keep you as far away from Liz as I could.” Max put his cup down slowly as he remembered. His mind went back to how hard it was for Nancy and Jeff to come to terms with his relationship with Liz. He knew now how hard it must’ve been, especially when he had to wonder about his own son wanting something he didn’t want Noah to have. His voice was small, timid like as he spoke. “Why did you go on blind faith, that I wasn’t going to hurt Liz?” Jeff smiled. “Liz is a pretty good judge of character. She doesn’t just give her heart away to anyone. If she felt you were worthy of her love, then that’s all that really matters. I had to let her make that decision even though I may not have agreed with it at the time.” Max just nodded. Jeff reached to place a hand on Max’s shoulder. “If Noah wants to meet his grandmother, that’s a tough decision you’re going to have to make. Just make sure that you’re not keeping Noah from a little piece of happiness because you want to protect him so much that you don’t see clearly what’s in front of you.” Max opened his mouth to thank Jeff for his advice, but Jeff just grinned at him. “Go on. Get outta here. Go home to your family.” Max stood, holding his hand out to Jeff. “Thank you.”