Category: Crossover; UC
Rating: R maybe up to NC-17 After all this is Alec
Summary: The sequel to A New Start. Liz left after the events in Changes and moved to Seattle. Once there she moved in with Ava and started her life over. She met Alec Cora and eventually the two started dating. Not long after they found out each other’s secrets; Alec was an X5 and Liz was an alien. The two stayed together despite their difference and the dangers in their lives. ‘Start to Finish’ is the continuing story of the unique couple.
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
One Year Later
Things had changed in the year since the transgenics took out the breeding cult of Familiars. In the year since the siege at Jam Pony and the publication of the existence of the Familiars the government had stuck by their promises of working with the transgenics. Because of the role the transgenics had had in bringing down the breeding cult and their plan to wipe out humanity the majority of the public were now transgenic friendly but their were still enough who weren’t that were trying to stop the transgenics from having any rights. There was even an ordinance called the Transgenic Registration Act that required all transgenics to be registered with their barcode and all essential information. The transgenics were trying to get it removed and a bill granting them the same rights as ordinaries passed. Liz was one of the main spokespeople for the cause although she was considered an ordinary while Alec helped run the organization, the National Alliance of Transgenics only working for Jam Pony a little to keep his sector pass. Whereas it was safer for transgenics to live in regular neighborhoods many still chose not to. Condemned areas like Terminal City were all over America and the transgenics had spread to them, creating transgenic communities.
Liz went about making her sandwich as she watched the clock waiting for Alec to come home. After the time they had shared in his old room in Terminal City they couldn’t bear to live apart. So within a month they found and shared a nice two-bedroom apartment with a little alcove off the living room for an office. She tossed their dog Lola, a morsel of food, which she eagerly caught and wolfed down. Lola had followed Alec home one day after they had moved in.
Liz made her way into their new apartment hoping Alec had finished unpacking the rest of the boxes. She made her way through the foyer and into the living room only to find Alec sitting among the boxes. “Well I guess you didn’t get the rest done huh?”
Alec’s eyes met Liz’s and he shook his head, he looked like he was hiding something. “I’ve been a little busy.”
Liz was about to ask what he’d been doing when something white caught her eye. “Alec what is that?”
“A dog, a puppy actually.” Alec answered as the puppy came into view. Liz could see she was about six months old, underfed female bulldog stray. She was all white but had a patch of brown on her face. Liz bent down and the little puppy tentatively made her way to Liz.
“She followed me home, I was on my runs today and noticed her following me. I didn’t realize she was still doing it until I was about to leave Jam Pony.” Alec explained as the puppy sniffed Liz. She must have liked what she smelled because she started hopping around Liz trying to get her to play causing Liz to laugh, “Well if she followed you she’s got taste.”
Lola was now well fed to about twenty-five pounds and eleven months older but didn’t know she wasn’t a puppy anymore. For some reason the X5s, with their cat DNA, didn’t have a reaction to her like they did other dogs. Liz thought it was because Lola couldn’t intimidate a fly. Liz leaned down and petted her. “Don’t worry girl, he’ll be home soon. I know I’m no fun now since I can’t play.”
Just then Lola’s ears perked up and she went scurrying off to the foyer. Lola didn’t bark when she knew who it was from their scent so she was a good watchdog. Liz listened as Alec made his way inside heading for the kitchen. A minute later she felt his arms come around her waist and pulled her against him. “How’s my girl today?”
“Active, she won’t quit moving and kicking. One of these days you’re going to see a little foot sticking out of my stomach where she’s kicked through it.” Liz said leaning back and giving him a quick kiss as he rubbed her belly.
“I doubt it has anything to do with this monster cappuccino you’re drinking.” Alec said picking up her Starbucks takeout cup. “I thought we decided you needed to cut back on the caffeine.”
“You decided.” Liz muttered taking a bite of her sandwich before snagging her cup back from him. “And for your information it’s hot chocolate smarty pants. It was chilly out when I took Lola for her walk.”
“I just want you and her to be healthy. This has never been done before.” Alec said looking at her stomach. He still couldn’t believe his daughter was in there.
“I think she knows your home and wants to say hi.” Liz said pulling up her shirt to reveal her belly. Alec could see a tiny little glowing handprint against Liz’s olive skin. It had first appeared four months ago. Liz had been talking to the baby as she soaked in the bath when the handprint first appeared. Liz had gingerly touched it and been sucked into a connection, telling Liz she was healthy and a girl. Liz had screamed for Alec who crashed into the bathroom readying to kick ass when he saw Liz was safe. She grabbed both of his hands and put one on the little handprint. Alec was then brought into the connection. Although he had no alien in him, his blood ran in his daughter’s veins along with Liz’s and they were connected. There was no question after that the baby would have powers only what powers would she have. They hadn’t been able to discover her individual power yet. They only knew from the small tidbit that Tess had told Liz about alien pregnancies and knew that because of Alec’s unique DNA that it could change what they did know. Would she just have that one individual power like Max and the others or all of the powers like Liz and Kyle? They figured she would be like her mother but they had nothing to base it on. They would just have to wait and find out.
Alec put his finger on the little handprint and smiled as his daughter said hello. They broke apart and Alec laughed. “She’s as attention demanding as her mother.”
“Funny, you’re far more of the attention grabber. You’re the one who has been sulking around here because I’m not going to be around here for a few days.” Liz had to go to Washington DC to speak at another transgenic civil rights hearing
“I still don’t like you to go now with it being so close.”
“I have to. They’re not going to put off the hearing until I have the baby.” Liz said eating her sandwich. “I’ve got the hearing then a day to make the rounds to try and gain some more support then I’ll be back.”
“I just wish I could get away and go with you.” Alec stated.
“I’ve made the trip several times before, I’ll be fine. And perfectly safe. Kyle and Ava are going with me along with Max and a half a dozen other transgenics.”
“And you’ve got a checkup in the morning with Sam right?” Alec asked.
“Before we go to the airport. He’s just going to check the usual stuff.” Liz said. Logan’s doctor friend, Sam Carr, was monitoring Liz’s pregnancy. He was the only one they could trust with the secret of the differences in her blood. They were still careful to hide the aliens’ secret only a half a dozen of their friends at most knowing their secret. It was safer. As far as the public knew Liz was an ordinary involved with a transgenic, nothing more.
“I’m still worried about your weight so you should have him check on it.” Alec said regretting the words as soon as they came out of his mouth.
Liz’s eyes teared up and her lip quivered, “You think I’m fat!”
Before Alec could defend himself Liz tore off down the hall and slammed their bedroom door. Alec rubbed his hand over his face, pregnancy hormones strike again. “Liz, babe. I don’t think you’re fat. If I did would I have made love to you three times last night or once this morning?” Pregnancy had increased Liz’s appetite for sex, something Alec didn’t mind at all. Although at first he’d been worried about making love to her when she was pregnant. It was a little more difficult with her belly now but they came up with ways. He was thankful he had transgenic stamina or she’d probably killed him by now.
Lola cocked her head and looked towards door like she was trying to figure out what was going on. She looked back up at Alec before taking back off into the living room.
“Weenie.” Alec called after her. He tried to open the door but it wouldn’t give. She probably melted the lock to keep him out so he knocked. “GO AWAY!”
Alec was about to argue more when their door bell rung. It was probably Biggs and Ava or Max and Logan since Lola didn’t bark. They were supposed to come over for a visit, Kyle and OC were unable to make it. “We come bearing food!” Biggs announced.
“Hey guys come on in and get comfortable. I’m going to go try and get Liz out of the bedroom.”
“What did you do now?” Ava asked knowing the cause behind Liz being in the bedroom. They had all been victims of her hormones, but Alec had caught the most of it.
“We were talking about her doctor’s appointment tomorrow and I told her to have Sam check her weight because I was worried about it.”
“You didn’t.” Biggs asked.
Alec nodded, “She took it the wrong way and thought I was saying she gained too much. But it’s just the opposite. She’s still so tiny for eight months, she’s barely gained twenty pounds.”
“I’ll go talk to her.” Ava called as she headed down the hall. Biggs grabbed Alec herding him out of the entry way into the kitchen, “Don’t feel so bad, at least this time she didn’t blast you.”
Part 2
Ava used her powers to unmelt the lock and entered the room. Liz was laying face down on the bed, her body twisted to the side to accommodate her round belly. “Liz, honey. It’s me.”
Liz sat up and Ava could see her puffy eyes. “Hey Ava. I didn’t hear the doorbell.”
“Don’t worry Alec let us in. He told us what happened.”
“He thinks I’m fat.” As she had grown bigger, she'd envied everyone's trim shapes all around her. And she imagined girls Alec was around just drooling and flirting over him, so handsome, sexy, and sweet. She couldn't help but hate the fact that they flirted with him and looked sexier than she did right now.
“No, he doesn’t. You’re so little that he worried that you haven’t gained enough.” Ava said. “You know how paranoid he is. He watches what you eat, how much caffeine and exercise you get. All those books he read.”
Liz smiled thinking about how sweet and overbearing Alec had been. “He won’t let me lift anything or practically clean.”
“Come on. Let’s go get some food before the guys eat it all. We can steal the carton of sesame chicken and dump a bottle of Tabasco so no one else can eat it.” Ava offered. The two girls headed out seeing that Max and Logan had arrived as well. They said hello.
“Cute jeans, Liz.” Max commented. Liz had on a large plain white T-shirt and jeans on with her hair pulled back.
“I got sick of the style of all the maternity clothes so I used my powers and altered a pair of my old cargo ones.” Liz explained as she heaped piles of food on her plate. Alec stood over to the side watching her, making note of how much she took but didn’t dare say anything only handed her a bottle of Tabasco. “Here’s your Vitamin T.”
“Thanks, sorry about earlier.”
“It’s okay, I should have explained better. Forgive me?”
“It’s not your fault, it’s my hormones.” Liz said kissing him. When they broke away he turned Liz towards the others and smacked her lightly on the ass to get her moving. “Go eat before I have the other woman in my life mad at me because she’s hungry.”
Alec grabbed his own food and headed into joined the others. “How are you feeling?” Logan asked Liz.
“Emotionally I feel crazy, physically just fine.” Liz answered. “No change in cravings or anything just lots of spice and lots of Alec.”
“Liz, I’m eating.” Biggs remarked as he grimaced.
“Does she still have the same taste in music?” Max asked with a smile on her face.
“Yep, she loves it.” Liz and Alec had discover a month ago that the baby loved certain music, actually a certain band, Aerosmith. Every time Steven Tyler’s voice came over the stereo she started moving around more than normal. It was like she was dancing. They couldn’t figure it out. The others started talking about the upcoming trip as they ate. Alec’s mind flash backed to when Liz told him.
Alec made his way into the apartment and saw it bathed in candlelight with the table set for dinner. It reminded him of the first night he and Liz made love at her old apartment that was when he saw her come of the kitchen. She looked beautiful. Her hair was down and she wore a long white skirt with a slit up each leg and a brown tank top. He noticed that her bellybutton ring was gone and looked to be completely healed, which he found strange. After dinner she made her way around the table and straddled him. She looked right into his eyes and said, “Marry me.”
“What?” Alec asked surprised.
“Marry me.”
“You know I can’t.” Alec said.
“I know we can’t right now but when they pass the law.”
Alec reached out and brushed her hair back. He wanted to marry her but right now he legally couldn’t. “I was going to wait until the bill passed and ask you.”
“But I’m asking you.” Liz smiled.
“When have I ever been able to resist you. And yes, I will.” Alec cupped her face and gave her a kiss. “So is then when you give me my engagement ring?”
Liz smiled, “No this is when I tell you I’m pregnant.”
Alec had been in complete shock when Liz told him. It wasn’t like it was planned, they were always so careful. Okay maybe not always, ninety-eight percent of time. She ended up being two and half months along by the time she found out. Her cycles had been out of whack ever since she became a hybrid but when she started waking up only to go running into the bathroom to get sick she figured out what it was. She told him when she took the test not surprised when it came out positive.
As Alec let it sink in, he found himself imagining a child with features of both he and her. Most people would think the proposal had been a trap but Alec knew Liz too well. She wasn’t trying to trap him at all; it was just her way of telling him about the baby. He had reached out and placed his hands on her flat stomach before leaning up to capture her lips in a deep passionate kiss. When they broke apart and leaned his forehead to hers. “We’re having a baby.” He whispered. It was then that Liz had known he was okay with it.
Now Liz was the one with the engagement ring and they were waiting for the day when it would be legal for them to marry. Her parents weren’t happy at first that Liz was pregnant while she was so young but had gotten over it. They knew how much the two meant to each other. Liz was still taking some college classes so they were happy that she hadn’t quit her schooling. They had given their blessing and even arranged for Liz to get some money out of the trust her Grandma Claudia had set up for her. Liz had also told them about the aliens. Liz figured that since the baby would have powers and might do something around her grandparents that they should be prepared.
“Alec?” Liz said waving her hand over his face. “Where were you?”
“Just thinking.” Alec said smiling as he snapped out of his memories.
Part 3
Later that night after everyone left and Liz had finished packing they were laying in the bedroom. Alec was clad only in his boxers while Liz was laying in one of Alec’s T-shirts propped up against the headboard. Her legs were out in front of her and Alec was stretched out along the foot of the bed so he could rub them. “Umm, that feels so good.”
Alec smiled at her as he kissed her knee. He looked up, saw Lola trying to lie on Liz, and laughed. Liz figured out why he was laughing and said, “I don’t think she understands why my lap isn’t there anymore.”
“She’ll get over it. She’ll just have to be like me and find other ways to snuggle with you.” Then he motioned to the book on her lap, “Where did we leave off?”
“The end. We went through the entire book.” Liz said looking at the baby name book. “Why don’t I read off the list I made?”
Alec tried not to laugh as Liz took out her little notebook so they could make a list of names. “Arianna, Alexandra, Alexis, Alyssa, Ashley, Bianca, Chloe, Dylan, Emma or Emmaline, Emmy.”
“Evie?” Alec suggested.
“You watch the mummy movies too much.” Liz stated as she read on. “Hallie, Isabella, Jasmine, Katherine, Kayla, Lillie, Mira, Morgan, Natalie, Peyton, Rachel, Raine, Riley, Sierra, Skylar, Taleah, Tara, Taylor, Troian, Trinity, and Victoria.
“That’s not a list, that’s the entire book.”
“I kind of like Trinity it could be symbolic. She’s a combination of three things, alien, human, and transgenic.” They could only guess but they figured that since the baby was going to have powers that she would pick up some of Alec’s transgenic traits as well. The fact that she had already figured out how to open a connection to them showed she was very smart, probably having the enhanced brain functions like he did. They would have to wait and see which other ones she would have as well.
Alec fell back onto the bed, “Pray she doesn’t have a temper on her. Lord only knows what damage she could do. Things would be exploding everywhere.”
“I feel sorry for boys when she starts dating.”
“She won’t date until she at least thirty.” Alec stated.
Liz just ignored him, “Besides dealing with you being overprotective they’re going to have to deal with her if they step out of line. If she’s anything like her Uncle Michael they’ll have a case of the itchies for weeks.”
Thinking of that Alec said, “Okay, I change my mind she can date when she’s a little younger than thirty but only if she brings them by so I can scare them. Make sure she doesn’t bring anyone home like me.”
Liz crawled over to him and pushed him on his back to straddle him, “Then she’d be as lucky as her mom.”
Alec waited until Liz leaned in close enough so he could capture her lips. The kiss heated up quickly and Liz started trailing kisses down his neck to his bare chest. She loved the feel of his hard body yet it was so soft. He had so much strength in his body but it never scared her, he was always so gentle that sometimes she forgot what he was able to do. She left wet kisses trailing down until she reached the waistband of his boxers before gazing up at him. His eyes were closed and his head thrown slightly back in pleasure. Liz smiled as she pulled the garment from his body and tossed them to the other side of the room. While Liz thought Alec looked sexy in his boxers she preferred them crumpled on the floor.
Liz turned her attention back to Alec only to see him sitting up in front of her before grabbing her in a heated kiss. He maneuvered her body so she was lying on her back and he settled himself between her legs. The moment his cock hit her heat they both hissed.
Liz had to have Alec now, so she lifted her hips and opened for him. He took the invitation and slid in smoothly. "I love you." Alec admitted with a grin as he looked down into her big brown eyes that he adored.
Liz swallowed and hugged Alec to her. Neither had moved yet. "Me too Alec. I love you.”
Alec groaned at that and started thrusting slowly. He slid a hand over her tummy to make sure this wasn't hurting her or the baby, and then he grinned and leaned in for a kiss, satisfied that mother and baby were okay with his loving. It had freaked him out at first to make love to her knowing there was another person inside of her. He didn’t know if it would hurt the baby or something similar. Sure he had had anatomy and biology classes back at Manticore but they hadn’t covered having sex with a pregnant woman. When she had started to show he had refused to more than kiss or hold her something Liz had gotten very upset about.
Liz was straddling him trying to seduce him but he was resisting. Something that was taking all his resistance to do. She ended up sitting back and pouting, “You don’t want me now?”
“I want you very much but I don’t want to hurt you.” Alec said.
“You’re not going to hurt me.” Liz got off of him and started to pace. He could tell she was upset. “You’re going to have to get over this because my hormones are running rampant and I feel like I’m going to explode. And if you won’t give it to me than I’ll have to figure out other ways to take care of it.”
Alec felt jealousy course through his veins, “You’ll do what?”
Liz smiled at him, “You heard me.”
Faster than he knew she could see he moved off the bed and swooped her up. He then hurried back to their bed and made love to her.
Afterwards she admitted that she’d only said that to break him. He didn’t argue with her again on the subject. He moved his hand to cradle her hip as he moved inside her.
Liz loved feeling Alec inside her. They were as close as physically possible. Their eyes met and they just watched the way they made each other come apart, sharing all the love they felt. Alec poured his love and his soul into her.
Liz cried out when she felt Alec start to pour his love into her. And she held him tighter as she fell over the edge with him, feeling the euphoric high that the differences in her created. He curled up behind her with his hand draped protectively over her belly. Liz’s last thoughts were that she would love him forever. Nothing would keep them from loving each other for a long and happy life. Liz would make sure that they had a long and happy life, no matter what.
Part 4
“There she is.” Sam said as he turned the screen of the ultrasound so Alec and Liz could see it easily and moved the wand around on her belly. The two of them were used to the appearance of the images on the screen so they could easily make out their daughter’s features.
“Is she sucking her thumb?” Alec asked.
“Yeah, they do that sometimes.” Sam simply answered. He took out Liz’s file and wrote down the necessary readings. “From everything I see here, I still say you have another month or so. Her lungs, brain, heart and all her other organs have fully matured last month which is early but she has some weight to gain.”
“Alec look.” Liz said as she pointed to the screen as their daughter stopped sucking on her thumb and started playing with her feet. As she watched she could help but think back to after the first ultrasound she had had. It was before their first connection so they didn’t know it was a girl yet. When Sam had tried to move the ultrasound wand around so they could find out she had played with them and played modest. So they had left with pictures but not knowing whether she was a girl or boy. Alec had run around showing everyone the pictures. Of course most people who weren’t used to seeing ultrasound pictures much couldn’t make out the details and Alec had gotten mad. But once everything was pointed out, they saw it.
Seeing Liz pointing out their daughter’s antics Alec couldn’t help but smile. “I wonder if she knows we’re watching her.”
Just then the familiar handprint appeared on Liz’s stomach as she quit playing with her feet and wanted to play with her parents. Sam knew all about Liz’s powers and the connection to the baby. But he just looked on in awe. “I never get used to that.”
“Thankfully she doesn’t do it in public.” Liz stated as the ultrasound ended. Sam wiped the jelly off her belly and she pulled the hospital gown back in place.
“When the time comes it’ll just be me, Alec and Ava in the delivery room in case anything unusual pops up. I’ve walked Ava through everything so she can be my nurse along with Alec since he’s got medical training. Max and Kyle will be outside in the waiting room if we need anymore help. You’re going to have to have the delivery natural because I don’t know what the drugs would do with the differences in both of you blood.”
“That’s fine, I didn’t want any anyways.” Liz stated.
Sam nodded, “As soon as she is born, I’ll put her up on your stomach while I take care of you. I want you to do the connecting thing with her to check on her. Then I’ll take her and give her a short physical. Then we’ll go through the process of registrating her birth. Have you decided on a name yet?”
They both shook their heads, “I’ll let you go ahead and get dressed. I’ll be waiting in my office, take your time. I’ll let everyone know everything is okay.”
Since they were leaving for the airport right after they finished up Max, Logan, Biggs, and Ava were waiting in Sam’s office. “I’ll come with you.” Alec stated wanting to talk to the doctor. Once they were outside Alec couldn’t resist asking. “You’re sure everything is okay?”
“As much as I can tell yes.” Sam answered. He knew what was really on his mind. “Alec, I wish I could tell you that everything will be textbook and they’ll both be fine but I can’t. This is not a normal birth. The whole thing has never happened before so we don’t know what to expect we just have to look at the fact that they are both healthy and keep an eye on her through the connection thing. Hopefully nothing will happen during the delivery, I’ll do everything I can.”
“Thanks,” Alec said. Sam walked away passing Ava on the way. Ava had heard what the two men were talking about and decided she needed to talk to Alec. “I still think we should have Max come up from Roswell.”
“Ava, I’m not having this conversation with you again.” He said turning away.
“We’ve never had this conversation because the moment I bring it up you walk away or change the subject. Well it’s almost Dday and you’re going to talk about.” Ava said angrily. “I’m not saying he has to be in the delivery room. Just close by.”
“We don’t need him.” Alec stated.
“What if something happens? Something Sam can’t fix? Kyle can only do so much and Liz will be in no condition to heal herself.” Ava stated.
Alec thought over what Ava was saying. It wasn’t that they had a hateful relationship with Max just strained. He didn’t date anyone mainly because he was trying to do his best to raise his son but Alec suspected that it was because he couldn’t get over Liz. He never made a move to do anything about it Alec had to give him that. But it made things uncomfortable.
Ava knew what Alec was thinking and said, “Could you handle it if something happened to either of them when we had the power to stop it? I don’t like having him here either but I know I can’t lose Liz.”
Alec nodded. “I’ll talk to Liz when she gets back and see what she thinks.” Within ten minutes Liz came out and they were heading to the airport.
((((((((((((((((((((())))))))))))))))))))
Flight 209 for Washington DC is now boarding
“That’s our flight.” Kyle announced. He reached down to grab his and Liz’s carryon bags as he watched the others say good bye. He had stayed in Seattle the past year helping Liz and the trangenics as much as he could. He had felt lost during the months after graduating, not knowing what he wanted to do with his life. A month after Kyle left Seattle with Michael and Maria he had been talking to Liz on the phone and had ended up admitting how he felt to her. That was when Liz suggested that he come help the transgenics out and he accepted. So now he helped with a noble cause that made him feel like he had a purpose. When he, Liz, and Alec had gone to Roswell for Christmas his dad had even mentioned how proud he was of him.
Alec pulled Liz closer giving her one last hug and kissed her gently. “Be careful, don’t go out by yourself.”
“I know. Don’t worry we’ll be fine.” Liz said reassuring him.
“I’ll stop worrying when you’re back here in our apartment.” Alec said before she left. He turned to talk to Kyle and the transgenics that were traveling with them. “That’s my love and my daughter, keep them safe.”
Kyle slapped Alec on his shoulder, “We’ll bring them back.”
Alec, Biggs, and Logan watched on as the group boarded their plane and waited until they were in the air before leaving the airport.
Part 5
As the SUV pulled up at the Capital building Liz took a minute to absorb the scene outside. There were several news helicopters circling around. She could see massive security measures being prepared. Their group made their way out of the vehicle and through the large crowd gathered. Liz pulled the jacket of her coat close, the October weather in Washington was colder than in Seattle. She was glad that the suit covered her belly, she wasn’t ashamed of her daughter but she didn’t want the public to make a big deal of it, her tiny size helped. Luckily despite how much of time she spent in the public eye they were still able to maintain privacy when they were at home. Ava, Max, and her were centered among the surrounding six transgenic bodyguards, Kyle next to Liz. They had to be careful of the fanatics out there. There had not been an attack on them before but they wanted to be careful. Kyle would even risk using his powers if he had to. He could feel CeCe behind him and knew his back was covered.
They were led to a small room to prepare before they made their appearance before the senate. Liz took the time to eat a small snack so she would be her best during her speech. Max sat next to her. Liz still amazed her, how much she did for all them, how much she had let her live be changed just so she could help them. All for her love of Alec, and now her daughter. She let her gaze follow Liz’s and saw her watching Kyle talking to CeCe. They were obviously flirting. “Do you think they know how obvious they are?”
“I doubt it. Kyle has always prided himself on being smooth whether he is or not.” Liz said.
Max glanced over to see Liz rubbing her stomach, and placed her hand next to it. Right as she did the baby kicked. “Woah. That little girl is going to be strong, like her parents.”
“I hate that she is still going to have to hide a part of herself but she will always know everything about herself and that she has a family that loves her.” Liz said as one of the Senate pages came in. “They are ready for you.” With that the group headed out.
((((((((((((((((((((((((((((())))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
Liz had just finished her speech in front of the Senate committee and was fielding questions. She stood as tall as her 5’2” frame allowed her. She wore a black pantsuit and her hair was upswept into an elegant French twist and makeup. The overall appearance made her look older than her 19 years.
“You're avoiding the question I posed to you at the beginning of the hearing, Ms. Parker. Three words: Are transgenics dangerous?” Senator McKinley asked. He was always the most outspoken during the meetings and senate hearings. He had been in charge of the investigation of uncovering the whole cover up involving Manticore.
“I am avoiding a question that cannot be easily answered, Senator. The wrong person behind the wheel of a car or a gun can be dangerous.” Liz explained coolly.
“Well, we do license people to drive and permits for guns.” Another senator threw in.
“But not to live. All transgenics want is what every one of us wants. The right to live their lives the way they want. To have the registration act removed and to have the rights of every other American.”
“Ms. Parker, the Registration Act was designed merely to assess their potential threat if any to national security. Transgenics are very real. They are among us. American's deserve the right to decide whether they want their children to be in school with transgenics, to be taught by transgenics. They also have the right to know the dangers and above all we must know what they can do.” Senator McKinley stated.
“But there is no registration for ordinary soldiers, or anyone else with the training to kill people. The same should be allowed for transgenics. The public thinks that just because they are trained as soldiers that they are out to kill anyone they come across. That is not true. I would trust any of the transgenics I know with my life and have often.”
“But you’re judgement is otherwise influenced by your personal involvement with transgenics including your relationship with X5-494 AKA Alec Cora.”
Liz tried as hard as possible to maintain her cool. She hated it when people referred to Alec by his number and she had a feeling the Senator knew that but she would not let this turn against her. “My personnel life and the relationships in it are not the subjects of this hearing. Yes, it was what brought me into this cause but it is not why I stay. I had the same views before my personnel involvement because these people are just that people. And they deserve the rights of that we all have. If we can not go into the future together, the divisions of fear and prejudice will tear this country apart.”
The room was filled with the opinion s of the people inside it, many for Liz, some against. “Now before we adjourn my friend and colleague Max Guevara will speak on behalf of the National Association of Transgenics.”
Liz made her way down from the platform carefully and passed Max on the way. Her friend smiled slightly at her and squeezed her hand in passing. Liz took her seat between Ava and Kyle to watch Max speak. She had a way about her that made everyone sent up and listen.
“As many of you know I am a transgenic who escaped from Manticore ten years before its downfall. For ten years I lived in hiding from them and kept my secret for fear of what would happen. I'm through running and hiding and being afraid. I'm not gonna live my life like that anymore, none of us are. We are tired of living in darkness. All we want is to have a place of our own where we can walk down the street without being afraid. The government made us, and they trained us to be soldiers, to defend this country. It's time for them to face us and take responsibility, instead of trying to keep us down. We were made in America and we're not going anywhere. We demand that we are given the same rights as everyone else born on American soil.”
Max left the podium as she finished and the Senate majority leader adjourned them for the day. This was the last time that they would have a chance to address the Senators. The Senators would debate over the issue possibly for months before finally voting. Kyle led the girls out of the room and they headed for the SUV.
Once outside a throng of reporters hovered around them firing off questions. “Ms. Parker, how do you feel about the Senator's Statement? How is the transgenic community reacting? Is it true that they are dangerous? Is there a transgenic plot to overthrow the government?”
The last question Liz felt she had to answer. “If that was the transgenics’ plan don’t you think they would have already done it instead of fighting to live side by side with ordinary people? Would they have exposed the threat from the Familiars?” Liz asked before ducking into the waiting SUV.
Part 6
When the group left the Capital building they headed straight back to where they were staying. Logan had a friend that owed him several favors that kept an apartment in Washington for whenever he was in town. Since he wasn’t in town now they were able to use it. It made things a lot easier. Liz changed quickly and pulled the pins out of her long hair letting it fall to just above her waist. She picked up her brush and used it to calm her nerves. She knew people thought she was fearless in front of a crowd but Liz did get nervous before she did her public speaking. But it was for a cause she believed in so much that it made the tingles worth it. Especially if it meant she could marry Alec.
Thinking of Alec she grabbed her cell phone and called him. It rang a few times before he picked up, “Hey babe.”
“Hey handsome. Whatcha up to?” Liz asked relaxing at the sound of his voice.
“Sitting at Logan’s, just finished doing some work for him.” Alec answered. Liz smiled. Logan still had Max, Alec and sometimes Biggs help him on his Eyes Only missions. “But I caught CSPAN’s coverage of the hearing. You looked beautiful and sexy as hell in that suit.”
“Well that wasn’t the objective of it but I’m glad you liked it.” Liz said. “I miss you.”
“I miss you too. The apartment is awfully empty, come home early.” Alec pleaded.
“I wish I could but I’ve got that press conference tomorrow and a couple of meetings. This is going to be my last trip until the baby comes, I have to get as much done as I can.” Liz stated although she wanted nothing more than to be home in Alec’s arms.
“Don’t over do it.” Alec warned.
“Nag nag nag.” Liz joked.
“Bite me.” Alec growled.
Liz’s body heated up thinking about ways she could bite Alec and said, “Wait until I get home.”
“D*mnit, Liz. Don’t say stuff like that when I’m on the phone with two other guys in the room.” Alec said. Liz could hear Biggs groan in the background and Alec telling him to shut up.
“You’re the one propositioning me here.” Liz stated. “I’ve better get off of here. I’ll see you day after tomorrow.”
“I love you.”
“I love you too.” Liz said before hanging up. She sat there for a few minutes rubbing her belly imagining what their daughter would look like. Whose hair or eye color would she have? Would she look like both of them or more one than the other? Liz was still thinking when she heard the door creak. She looked up to see Ava standing in the doorway, “Hey, just wanted to check on you.”
“Just got off the phone with Alec. He and Biggs were helping Logan.” Liz stated.
Ava smiled, “I know. He told me last night that they were heading over there today.”
“I know I’ve said this a lot over the year but I’m glad you two found each other. Just think maybe you’ll be in the same situation soon.” She said joking.
“I think one of us pregnant is enough.” Ava stated. “But if you ever get a hysterical call from me, you’ll know why.”
Liz was thankfull Ava had been there for her the day she found out she was pregnant.
Liz had woke up every morning for the last week instantly running into the bathroom, loosing whatever she had in her stomach. It wasn’t until yesterday that she figured out that it might be because she was pregnant. So she had told Ava her suspicions and had set up for her to buy a test and bring it to Liz after Alec left for work. They were both off work so they would have the whole day. Ten minutes after he left, Ava arrived and Liz and her went into the bathroom. “How much longer Av?”
Ava looked at the watch, “It’s time.”
“So you’re sure this will tell me even with our ‘different’ makeup?” Liz asked.
“How should I know? I’ve never taken one before but we have to at least try.” Ava stated. She looked at the box, “It says if there’s a pink strip then you are, if not, no baby.”
Liz looked at the test, “Oh my God. There’s a strip.”
Ava smiled and hugged her friend, “You’re going to be a mommy, and I’m going to be an aunt.”
Ava must have seen something on Liz’s face because she asked, “Are you okay?”
“Ava, I’m scared. What if Alec doesn’t want any of this?”
“Liz babe. That boy loves you, he loves the way you walk, he loves your hair, he loves everything about you. And he’ll love you after this.” Liz knew Ava was right. Alec loved her and she was sure he would be okay with this. She just had to figure out how to tell him. “And he’d love to have a miniature version of you around.”
“It could be a boy, just like Alec.”
Ava rolled her eyes, “Heaven help us if it is.”
Ava looked at Liz, her best friend, who was lost in thought. Ava couldn’t help but wonder what her life would be like if Liz hadn’t searched her out in Seattle. She would probably still be living quietly, hiding from everyone. Ava realized that that wouldn’t really be living. Liz had thanked her several times for putting her up in Seattle but Ava thought the favors the two had done for each other had balanced it out. “We better head out to the living room and see what the others are doing.”
(((((((((((((((((((((((()))))))))))))))))))))
Alec hung up his phone and felt lonely not at least hearing Liz’s voice. He leaned back into Logan’s sofa thinking about how much his life had changed. In less than two years he had gone from a soldier not caring about anyone but himself, doing what he wanted, taking what he wanted to a guy with a steady job, one of the leaders to a civil right movement, a live in girlfriend/fiancée, and a baby on the way. When he had first escaped Manticore he had given no thought to any of it but now he couldn’t think of living any other way. Everyone had to grow up sometime.
He looked over to see Logan and Biggs staring at him. “How is everything?” Biggs asked.
“Fine. They’ve got the press conference tomorrow and some other stuff.” Alec stated although they already knew the girls’ agenda. “Guys, we’re pathetic. Look at us. We’re just sitting around here acting like we can’t do anything because our women aren’t around.”
“I’d like to see you call them ‘our women’ when Max was around , she’d kick your ass.” Logan stated.
Alec was about to argue but Biggs spoke first, “Alec’s right. Let’s go out. To a bar or something, other than the Crash.”
The three guys made plans and headed out.
NOTE: The interview and EO broadcast from this part was actually in Dark Angel, in the episode Dawg Day Afternoon.
Part 7
Liz headed out to the living room with Ava where Kyle was sitting. Max was in the other bedroom and the other transgenics were around somewhere a few she knew was guarding the entrance. Suddenly the door flew open scaring her for minute until she recognized the hurricane. “CHICA!”
Liz hopped up to hug her friend and smiled at Michael behind her. The guards knew both of them so they had gotten in easily. They both lived in New York , Maria doing her music and Michael had actually worked up the nerve to show some of his artwork. Although they lived across the country from each other, Maria and Liz were still very close. Maria came to see her whenever she could and Liz visiting when she came to Washington. They were both going to take two months off within a few weeks because they wanted to be there when Liz had the baby. Maria pulled away and placed her hand on her best friend’s belly “Look at you, my niece is going to be here so soon. Are you going to say hi to your Aunt Ria, little Chica?”
The baby must have heard Maria because she decided to kick just then. “Michael you’ve got to feel this.”
Michael placed his hand next to Maria’s and the baby kicked again. She only connected to Liz and Alec none of the other aliens. But Michael still liked to feel her. Liz and his friendship had increased and they had gotten even closer over the year. “She’s going to be an ass kicker.”
Maria smacked him on the back of the head with her other hand, “Watch your mouth, she can hear you.”
Liz couldn’t help but laugh at the two of them, same old Maria and Michael. “Quit it you two and sit down.”
The three went down to sit with Kyle and Ava, “Hey sis. How are you?”
Maria smiled at Kyle’s nickname for her, one that he’d used ever since their parents got married. “Just fine, give me some love.”
Maria hugged Kyle then did the same to Ava. Maria had found it strange at first becoming friends with her since she looked like Tess but Maria quickly saw what Liz had always seen. Ava was not Tess. Once she was finally seated she started chattering, “Caught the footage of the hearing before we left.”
“You looked great up there, Liz. Gave them a run for there money.” Michael said.
“You were awesome, Lizzie especially when the Senator tried to get you to choke.” Maria said happily.
“Hey guys look who it is.” Ava said as she turned up the TV so they could hear the interview that was taking place.
“If God had intended these transgenics to walk among us, don’t you think he would have mentioned them in the Bible? These transgenics are simply the latest in a long line of abominations perpetrated by the scientific community.” The interviewee said.
“Whose that?” Maria asked.
“Reverend Terry Caldwell, an active religious speaker against transgenics.” Kyle explained. “He’s a pain in the ass.”
The interview continued as they listened. “If I’m hearing you correctly, Reverend, you don’t believe the transgenics should be accorded even the most basic human rights.”
“Because they’re not human. In the eyes of the Lord, they’re not even animals. The individuals that we speak of are manufactured. They’re stamped with barcodes on their necks when they come off the assembly line. And since only God has the power to create life, then we must ask ourselves if they can even be said to be alive.”
“Boo.” Liz yelled as she threw some loose paper that Kyle had balled up at the TV. It was if the TV listened to her because just then the broadcast was interrupted, the Eyes-Only banner scrolling across the screen. “Max! Get in here, Logan’s doing a broadcast.”
Max hurried in just as Logan started. “Not alive? Not human? Who are you to sit in judgment, Mr. Caldwell. Despite what people like you have been saying about them, transgenics aren’t that different from you and me. They do feel, they do hurt, and they are alive. And all they want is what everyone else wants. They could tell you what it’s like to be afraid, alone in a hostile world. And it might be more convenient to pretend otherwise, but in the end, who does that say more about...them, or us? This has been a streaming freedom video bulletin. Peace. Out.”
All the girls cheered Logan as the screen cut back to a very upset Reverend Caldwell. “And what do you say in response to the cable hacker media pirate Eyes Only, Reverend?” For once Reverend Caldwell was speechless and the interview ended.
“Well let’s get out of here and go shopping.” Liz said. She was looking forward to going out into the city.
“Liz, I think it’d be better if we stayed here. I told Alec…” Kyle argued but Liz interrupted. “If Alec had his way I’d be wrapped in bubble wrap and stuck in our apartment until I gave birth. Now I’m going just try and stop me.”
Kyle knew the look in Liz’s eyes and knew that there was no arguing with her especially since she was pregnant. It could be dangerous. Liz saw that there wouldn’t be an argument and hopped up as best she could and grabbed her purse. “Max! I’m heading out, you going?”
“No, I’m going to hang around here.” Max yelled back.
Liz nodded as she turned to her friends, “Let’s go shopping.”
Maria and Ava got up to join her as Michael rolled his eyes, “We’re going to be Seattle soon, can’t shopping wait until then?”
“Shopping in Washington and shopping in Seattle are completely different.” Maria reasoned as they headed out with Kyle and Michael following.
((((((((((((((((((((())))))))))))))))))))
Liz with Kyle behind her helping her with her luggage entered her and Alec’s apartment only to have their ears bombarded by loud music. Liz was happy to be home, the trip had worn on her, arguing and talking to so many people could do that to anyone. But her job was done. Now it was up to the members of the Senate to argue until they made their vote. She could only hope that the majority of the votes would be in their favor. Liz looked around the living room and although the stereo was on, no Alec was in sight. “Thank you so much for the help.”
Kyle just shrugged her off, “I’m not going to make you carry all your luggage up here. You might go into labor early. Plus I don’t want to be on Alec’s bad side.”
“Thanks again,” Liz said before hugging Kyle. Kyle left then and Liz decided to go in search of her man. She thought she smelled something cooking but before she headed to the kitchen she heard something in the bedroom that they were going to make into a nursery. They had bought most of what they needed but hadn’t had time to decorate it yet. Liz couldn’t help but smile at what she saw from the door. The room was covered in drop clothes and tape that Liz had no idea where they had come from. Alec was busy painting the far wall all but one area done. The whole room was now a warm shade of yellow. He didn’t notice her presence despite his transgenic hearing, which was blocked by the loud music. So she took the opportunity to watch him. He had on nothing but a pair of shorts that hung low on his hips and a bandana covering his hair from stray paint. It looked like he was enjoying himself. When he finished the last area she raised her hand in the direction of the stereo and turned it off as she said, “Honey, I’m home.”
Alec turned around quickly almost knocking over some stuff but his fast reflexes thwarted it. He put down the paint roller and headed over to her. He picked her up gently before kissing her. When they broke apart he finally spoke, “What are you doing home so early?”
“We were able to get out on a earlier flight, so I thought I’d surprise you.” Liz explained. “But if it’s too early I can go over to Ava’s and hole up there for a few more hours.”
“I don’t think so.” Alec stated.
“You know I could do all this a lot easier with my powers.” Liz stated motioning to the paint and equipment.
“Nope, I want to do this on my own, no powers this time.” Alec explained. He didn’t know why exactly but he liked the thought of decorating his daughter’s nursery. It was a normal thing for him to do.
Liz smiled at the sweetness of what he was doing. She started looking through the bags of other things Alec had bought, they were the blankets and other things they would need for the crib. She smiled even more when she saw the theme he had picked out, “Disney characters?”
Alec just shrugged. “Humor me. I didn’t have a childhood and Disney stands for all things young. I won some extra cash at the pool tables the other night so I went all out.”
“True. Remind me that we need to take a trip to Disneyland some day.” Liz said. She noticed then that the dog wasn’t by her feet like she normally was, “Uh, where’s Lola?”
Liz noticed that Alec had a strange grin on his face as he said. “She was kind of helping me put the stroller together.”
“She’s a dog. How can she help? She doesn’t have thumbs.” Liz stated.
Alec walked over to where the new stroller was facing away from them. He wheeled it around so Liz could see the front of it. When she did she busted out laughing. Inside where the baby would be was Lola, lying there like she didn’t have a care in the world. “Alec, get that dog out of there.”
Alec bent down to free Lola who went running over to Liz. “I wanted to make sure it was strong enough and could support the weight.”
Liz just shook her head as she asked, “What smelled so good when I was coming in?”
“I made some of that spicy stew of Logan’s that you like. But it won’t be ready for a while since I didn’t think you’d be home for a few more hours.” Alec stated. He followed her into the kitchen not missing the sight of the additional bags with her luggage. “Shopping with Maria again?”
“And Ava.” Liz stated looking through the fridge.
“Well it looks like you held yourself back this time.” Alec stated. “Before I forget Normal was asking how you were doing and mentioned that he wanted you to stop by soon.
“Surprised he wants to see the woman who has stolen his golden boy away from him.” Liz joked. Another thing that had changed over the past year was that Normal no longer hated transgenics. He had just been scared of what was different. Especially at the idea of what was different were escaped lab experiments running around the streets. It knocked him on his ass when he found out that he actually employed some of these freaks. Mainly because he had been sure he would be able to spot their differences right away. But he had never suspected Max. She could be considered strange and abnormal if she actually showed up for work on time and treated him with respect but that didn’t make him think she was one of the escapees. Liz found it ironic that it was his blind faith in the government that swayed him in favor of transgenics. He had always been a staunch supporter of the government and counted himself a proud American. It was the government who in fact made the transgenics so they must have had a purpose. Then there was Alec, his golden boy. Just thinking about him was enough for Normal to switch to the transgenics’ cause. Something that kind of weirded Liz out but she was used to it by now.
Alec made a face of disgust at the mention of Normal’s obsession. “I thought maybe you would want to go tomorrow?”
“Sure.” Liz said. “So are you done painting for the day?”
“Yep, why?”
“Well I’m hungry and since the food won’t be done for a few hours so I thought I could satisfy another appetite.” Liz said raising her eyebrows suggestively.
“Well I always try to make sure your appetites full filled.” Alec said as he lifted her gently and carried her back to their room.
Next
LittleBit