Kansas

DISCLAIMER: I do NOT own any part of Roswell nor its characters.


Liz had made too many sacrifices for the group. Giving up Max was the ultimate sacrifice thus far. It was hard for the group to accept the betrayal, but both Kyle and Liz assured that they slept together willingly. Liz swore that it was under the heat of passion. After all, both Kyle and her had once been a couple. No one argued that Kyle was not attentive to Liz’s needs as a person. He had been there for Liz the most now that Maria was Michael’s girlfriend. In the end, the group decided to accept the new couple. It was only natural that they found each other with Max and Tess together. It was the perfect excuse for Max not to feel guilty about his many fantasies with Tess. He was now at liberty to pursue her without lying to Liz about his memory sessions late at night. Everyone was happy with the new formation except Kyle and Liz, but they could not outright express it for fear that the group may fall apart.

Kyle and Liz agreed that they would have better luck with life elsewhere, away from the aliens. Although it hurt to tell their parents, the two felt it necessary to inform them of their departure to help keep the rest of the group in the dark. If the group ever inquired, their parents would inform them that they left to Florida to visit Liz’s aunt and enjoy summer break there. But in truth, Kyle and Liz would be heading to Kansas in hopes of finding peace and becoming one with nature. They know life there won’t be easy, but at least they would be out of harms way from any alien-related fiasco. The two would stick together as brother and sister and keep each other safe. That was the deal. Stick together through the good and the bad.

The night before their departure, Kyle came over to the Parkers’ place. It was not easy for them to let their only daughter leave home, but it was a comfort to know that Kyle would be there to keep an eye out. His wrestling and football training will help keep their daughter safe, although they knew that Liz would be able to outwit anyone if she put her mind to it. Kyle came over to inform the Parkers of their new cell phone numbers. They figured it would be best to change their numbers now to avoid any confrontation with the group over the phone. Their parents insisted on paying the phone bill every month to lessen their burden on the road. After thanking them again for their kindness, Kyle headed up to Liz’s room.

~Tap. Tap.~ “Liz?”

“Oh. Hey, Kyle. I’m just about finished.”

“Are you really going through with this?”

“I can easily let go just as well as you can. Did you finish packing your things?”

”Yeah. My dad checked the truck over to make sure we’d make it to Kansas safely.”

“Good. I’ll just go downstairs and pack some sandwiches for the road. Do you want anything?”

“No, I’m good.”

Kyle still could not contemplate their decision. It was hard enough to say good bye to his dad, but could he really support Liz and himself on the road?

“Kyle. What is it? What’s on your mind?”

“It’s nothing. I’m just a little nervous, that’s all.”

Liz couldn’t help but give Kyle a big bear hug. She was always asking too much of him. It wasn’t fair for them to grow up so quickly, but the weight of the world does that to people. It was time to stop thinking of others and do some good for themselves.

“Don’t worry, Kyle. You’ve got me, remember? We’ll do it together.”

Kyle embraced her then. It always amazed him how Liz knew what he needed. She was a true friend and a kind soul. He was afraid that remaining here with the group would lessen this attribute.

“Thanks, Liz. I needed that.”

“My pleasure.”

Pulling out of his embrace, Liz gave him a quick peck on the cheek and left downstairs. Calling back over her shoulder, “Don’t forget to wake me up at 3:30am, okay?”

“Yeah. I’ll remember.”

And with that, Kyle began picking up Liz’s baggage to take to the truck. They figured it would make their departure easier, and they would gain more ground if they dealt with the loading tonight. Liz’s parents had invited both Jim and Kyle to sleep over at their home for the night. It would give all of them more bonding time and help keep their departure a secret.

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Morning came all too quickly for everyone. Both Kyle and Liz had said their goodbyes the night before, but their parents reserved the right to embrace them one last time. The two descended down the stairs and out the diner’s back exit. It was time to let go. Kyle quickly helped Liz into the truck and rounded the front to get into the driver’s seat. It was still dark out, but they refused to turn on the truck’s headlights for fear of being caught. It was only when they reached the highway that Kyle turned the headlights on.

“This is it, Liz. No turning back.”

“I know.”

She had not once let herself fall apart. It was a coping mechanism that she had learned being a part of the group. But now, she was free to let herself go, and she couldn’t bring herself to cry. Instead, she folded her hands on her lap and stared out the window. As if sensing her innate battle, Kyle reached over and gently squeezed her hands. Her eyes were brimming with tears.

“It’s okay. I’m here for you. Everything will work out. Just you wait and see.”

Liz began to sob louder and leaned into Kyle’s embrace. After a few minutes, Liz had cried herself to sleep on Kyle’s lap. ~It’ll all work out, Liz. You’ll see. Max won’t hurt you anymore.~

When Liz woke up four hours later, Kyle was pulling up into a gas station off the 40 highway. She slowly sat up and rubbed her eyes awake. Seeing that Kyle pulled over for gas, Liz began to dig inside her handbag for her wallet to pay.

“It’s okay, Liz. My dad gave me his gas card to keep a track of our course. He insisted that we save our money for other expenses.”

“Okay. Thanks. While you put gas in the truck, I’ll pull out the sandwiches and purchase a few coke bottles from the store.”

“Don’t take too long.”

“I won’t.”

Inside the store, Liz picked up some coke bottles and took them to the counter. She had noticed the price tag attached to the coke-bottle openers being sold along the counter and was pleased to have packed one from home before departing.

“That’s all, miss?”

“Yes, please.”

“You know, you’ll need to buy one of our fancy bottle openers to drink them.”

“Actually, I brought along one for the road. But thanks for offering.”

“Smart little lady. Then, that’ll be two dollars.”

“Here you go.”

“You have a nice day, now.”

“Thanks! I will.”

Picking up the bottles with both hands, she headed back out towards Kyle where he parked the truck away from the gas pump. She was grinning from ear to ear. Kyle had sassed her about packing too many things that weren’t necessary. But today, her preparedness paid off. She had saved them ten dollars. Some fancy bottle openers!

“What are you grinning about?”

“Nothing, really. Here’s your coke bottle.”

Kyle takes the bottle from her and then realizes that he can’t drink it.

“Did you purchase a bottle opener?”

“No. I didn’t have to.”

Liz reached over the back of the truck and pulled a bottle opener from the side of a bag. She stepped off to lean on the truck. *Click. Fizz.*

“Liz, aren’t you going to share?”

“Why should I? You told me I shouldn’t pack unnecessary things.”

“Ha ha. Very funny. Hand it over.”

Giggling, she handed the bottle opener to Kyle.

“That bottle opener just saved us ten dollars!”

“Ten dollars?! You’re kidding. Well, thanks for not listening to me.”

“No problem. Where to now?”

“Well, I figure we eat our sandwiches first and then head back on the highway. If you don’t mind, I’m feeling kind of tired. Would you drive a while?”

“Sure. You got us a ways away from Roswell now. Where are we?”

“We’re in Texas now."

“Oh, wow. Let’s hurry up and eat so we won’t waste anymore time.”

“Okay.”

Kyle and Liz finished eating their sandwiches. Liz hopped onto the driver’s seat and fastened on her seat belt. Kyle climbed into the passenger side.

“Before you take a nap, Kyle, hand me a pen from the glove compartment.”

“Why?”

“To tie up my hair. It’s going to get too hot for me to wear my hair down.”

“Okay, but I don’t know how a pen will help.”

Kyle reached over and grabbed a pen from the glove compartment to hand to Liz.

“Here you go, Liz.”

“Thanks.”

And in one quick motion, Liz twirled her hair around the pen and stuck the pen into a messy hair bun.

“Wow. I must say that girls are very resourceful.”

“I’m surprised you haven’t seen it done before. Take your nap. I’ll be fine driving in silence.”

“Okay, thanks.”

With that, Liz pulled the truck back onto the highway and headed eastbound. They had made their first pit stop, and were now settling themselves on the road trip idea. An hour into her drive, Liz began to wonder about the group. By now, they would have been informed about their departure to Florida by plane.

Liz inhaled the desert air and sighed, “No more aliens.” She reveled in the freedom she felt as the wind played with her loose strands of hair. Liz was now ready to rebuild her life, and Kyle would be there to lend her a hand. ~No more Max. No more Michael.~

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Back in Roswell, Tess awakes from her slumber in the arms of her Max. They had finally consummated their relationship without the guilt and judgment of the group lingering over them. She can’t help but thank the gods above for her great fortune. Max had finally corresponded Tess’ feelings. They had reopened their lost connection from their previous life and were now ready to regain their title.

Tess’ head steadily rose and declined against Max’s breathing. She slowly lifted her head from her chest and gave it a quick kiss.

“I love you, Max.”

Having felt the kiss, Max opened his eyes, still exhausted from last night’s activity, and leaned down to kiss the top of Tess’ head.

“I love you, too.”

*Ring. Ring.* Even though it was 8:30 a.m., the couple was just not ready. Both of them knew that their titles carried lots of responsibility. It was with that mentality that Max picked up the phone.

Groggily, Max greeted, “Hello?”

“Hey, Max, it’s me. Can you meet me at the courts in half an hour?”

“Sure. I’ll be there in half an hour.”

Max hung the phone.

“Who was that, Max?”

“Oh, it was Michael. He wants to talk. *Kiss.* I’m going to go take a shower before I head out.”

“Okay. I’ll just stay and catch some needed sleep.”

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At the courts, Michael awaited for Max to arrive, dribbling the ball up and down the court. His relationship with Maria was hitting a turn, and Michael did not want to make a mistake. He began questioning his heritage and purpose in life. It would be wrong to lead Maria into a relationship that had no future. After all, he was a soldier in his past life, and he was placed on this world to protect the king.

“Maxwell, what took you so long?”

“I had to take a shower.”

“Why?”

The question made Max blush a beet red color. If he were to answer, he would have to inform Michael of his active relationship with Tess.

“Never mind, Michael. What’s up? What did you want to talk about?”

“I’m worried that my relationship with Maria may be getting out of hand.”

“What do you mean? I thought things with Maria were great. Have you two been fighting?”

“Actually, no. It’s been a while since we’ve had our last argument. The thing is our relationship has gotten too intense. I know Maria loves me, but I don’t think it’s fair for her to live her life in a fantasy. Any given day, we could be running from the law, and I won’t be able to take her with me.”

“Well, Michael. Have you talked to her about your concerns? Maybe if you two talked it over, you’d find out that Maria may love you enough to leave her life here for a life with you on the run.”

“You’re serious? You think Maria would give up a comfortable living with her mom and friends to be by my side? Which Maria were you thinking about?”

“Stop it, Michael. Give Maria the benefit of the doubt and talk to her about this. You may be surprised with what she has to say.”

“I would rather save her the trouble of having to decide and end the relationship now. Besides, Maria deserves to fulfill her dreams. If I break up with her now, she could still accept her offer to attend N.Y.U. and become a singer.”

“It doesn’t seem like anything I say would change your mind. Go ahead, then. End things with Maria, but don’t complain later about seeing her date other men.”

“I’ve made up my mind. I know she’ll try to make me jealous to get back together, but I’m going to stick to my decision.”

“So, when will you tell her?”

“Tonight. I’ll tell her tonight. She’ll be gone all day running errands for her mom so she won’t be home until later tonight.”

“Well, you might want to call Liz and give her a heads up on the break up so she could spend time with Maria afterwards. You don’t want Maria interrupting any plans Liz may be having with Kyle.”

“Yeah, I’ll do that. Are you honestly over Liz?”

“Yes. I love Tess. I think what I had for Liz was admiration. She was always a strong person, and she was always there for me. I guess I was just infatuated with her.”

“Seriously, Max. Not to demean your choice of Tess, but Liz was really good for you. I just never expected Liz to be the cheater type.”

“Well, that shows you to expect the unexpected from life. Besides, seeing Liz happy with Kyle helped me realized what I had all along. Tess is my destiny.”

“If you say so. Come on. Let’s play ball.”

“You’re on! Prepare to be defeated.”

“You wish, your Highness!”

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*Knock. Knock.*

“Max, I’ve been meaning to…”

“Good morning, Isabel.”

“Uh, good morning, Tess. Where’s my brother?”

“He took off to meet Michael and talk. Did you need anything?”

“No, it’s nothing.”

Tess sat up and began wrapping the sheets around her frame.

“I’ll be out of your way in a minute.”

“No, don’t. I don’t want you to feel you’re imposing on us. You aren’t. It’s just that it still feels weird seeing my brother with another woman.”

“But I’m not another woman. I am the only woman meant to be in his life.”

“You know what? We haven’t had a chance to get to know each other much. Why don’t you stay and keep me company. My husband has left on a business trip, and my parents are both out working. It’ll mean a lot to me if you stay and bond with me.”

“Alright, Iz. I’ll stay. Besides, it’ll give me a chance to finally do something about that long mane of yours.”

“What? Oh, no. You keep your hands off my hair.”

“Okay, I won’t touch your hair if you lend me some clothes. I wasn’t planning on staying here.”

“Oh, sure. Why don’t you take a shower while I bring you some clothes? I’ll leave them on the bed so you can change in the room.”

“Thank you. I really appreciate your help. Well, I’ll get going now.”

Tess stood up and dragged the sheets along the floor.

“Alright. I’ll go get you the clothes. And hurry! I’m cooking breakfast for us, too!”

“Okay.”

With that, Tess closed the bathroom door behind her and Isabel exited the room. ~We were friends in our last life so we can be friends in this life, too.~

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The sun had ascended, baring down on them both, and it was nearing noon. Liz’s flowing hair was starting to stick to her face and neck from the humid weather. Kyle’s flannel shirt was making him uncomfortable. He removed his flannel shirt and balled it up into a pillow, trying desperately to continue dreaming but to no avail. He started to open his eyes. He had drifted into a deep, restful sleep. Kyle rose up and took a quick glance at his watch to see the time, when Liz answered, “It’s almost noon, sleepy head.”

“Where are we?”

“Oh, we should be rounding Guymon, Oklahoma in about half an hour.”

“Why didn’t you wake me up to help you with the driving?”

“You looked so peaceful, how could I? Besides, I was enjoying the time to myself. It has brought some things in my life into perspective. Do you want to eat?”

“Yeah. Where did you put the sandwiches?”

“They're right behind my seat and the coke bottles are near your feet.”

“Do you want me to get you a sandwich and coke, too? The road looks pretty empty right now.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll eat my sandwich in a bit when we switch at the next stop.”

“It’s getting too hot and humid out here. I hope the engine can take it.”

“It’ll make it. It’s us that I’m worried about. We should probably stop and purchase some water.”

“Yeah, and you should buy some sun screen lotion, too.”

“I’ve got that covered. I’ll put some on when we stop. Do you want to listen to music?”

“Even if I wanted to, we can’t. The radio’s busted. Guess we could do some small talk while we get there.”

“What do you want to talk about?”

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Michael continued to walk briskly to his destination. He couldn’t refrain from thinking about Maria and the many dates they’d had. It always ended the same. Every date they shared ended in an overheated argument. Today, he intended to go over to Maria’s place before their date and break off their relationship. Michael knew that what he proposed on doing would gravely hurt Maria. But enough was enough. He wasn’t willing to share his soul with her or any other girl. The relationship would eventually hit a dead end. Michael would be able to handle that but not Maria. In a few minutes, Michael would sever the ties he had so curiously sought out almost a year ago.

“Mom! Can I borrow your leather jacket tonight?”

“Are you going out again? I swear you’ve gone out with that boy nearly every night.”

“Mom. I thought we agreed not to comment on each other’s relationship.”

“Oops, sorry. But you should know that Jim and I…”

“No, no. We don’t go there. That’s why we placed the rule.”

“Oh, you! I wasn’t going to say anything gross. I just wanted to share.”

“It’s better that we don’t. So, can I borrow it?”

“Sure. It’s in the closet. Just make sure not to drop any mustard on it. It’s a pain to clean up.”

“I promise.”

With a quick peck on the cheek, Maria headed into her mom’s closet and retrieved the leather jacket. In a few hours, she would need to clock in at 2p.m. for work so she would need to leave her clothes ready for her date tonight. She quickly put on her work uniform and added a fresh coat of lip gloss before she placed her antennae headband. As she was about to leave to go visit Liz prior to her shift, Maria heard a light tap at her window. It was Michael. ~Michael, early? Ten points!~

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“I couldn’t believe the kind of friends I had, Liz. Why couldn’t you tell me how self absorbed I was last year?”

“That was something you had to find out on your own and in your own time.”

“Oh, gee, thanks, Buddha!”

Liz giggled. “Oh, come on, Kyle! It’s not like I could have said anything back then that would have made you think otherwise.”

“Hey, I couldn’t help it anyway. I fell for my own charm.”

“Jerk! Just wait until I pull over!” Liz couldn’t help the playful bantering. It was a great feeling being able to let go of her problems for just a moment.

“Sure. That’ll scare me— threatening me with flailing arms, slapping aimlessly into empty space.”

“That’s it, Kyle. If you keep treating me this way, I’ll have to leave you at the side of the road to fend for yourself.”

“You wouldn’t.”

“Try me.”

“Awe, Liz. Be nice.”

“I will if you will.”

“Okay. I’ll try, but there’s no guarantee.”

“I'm stopping at the next gas station. We should reach our destination in approximately two hours, before the sun sets on the horizon. Start looking for a place to stay."

“Alright. I’ll try to find a place not too noticeable so that we won’t get tracked.”

“Kyle, honestly? I don’t think they’ve figured out we’ve left.”

“Let’s just hope that’s true.”

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If Maria would have known what argument would conspire in her bedroom, she would have never let Michael in. They had been an official couple for more than three weeks now. What’s more, she and Michael had planned a date tonight to make up for their last disastrous one. Maria never suspected Michael would ever utter those dreadful words again so soon.

“No, Michael. You don’t get to walk out on me. I get to walk out on you.”

“Fine, Maria. You broke up with me. What’s the difference?”

“You know what? Get out! Go!”

Michael climbed out the window for the last time.

“Guess I still get to walk out on you, don’t I?”

With that, Maria grabbed the nearest knickknack and maliciously hurled it out the window, nearly hitting his leg as he walked off into the street.

Maria didn’t want to admit it, but Michael meant the world to her. It hurt her to break off the relationship for the umpteenth time. But above everything, Maria had pride. She cared too much about what others thought of her. She wouldn’t dare go back to Michael this time. It would make her appear like an old rug forever meant to be stepped on. With a sigh of resignation, Maria let herself fall back onto the bed, pondering her next step. She knew herself too well. If she didn't find something to keep her mind preoccupied, she’d end up spending her days planning out ways to get Michael back. ~And I am not about to make a fool of myself this time.~

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“It’s done. I won’t have to worry about Maria anymore.”

“Michael, you’ve said that before. It’s just a matter of time before you two date again.”

“I’m serious, Maxwell. I’m finished playing games with her.”

“So that’s all she was to you. A game.”

“Don’t twist my words. I’m doing this for her own good and mine.”

“So, what now?”

“I might just go on a road trip.”

“Do you want company?”

“Nah. The fate of the world is resting on your shoulders, Maxwell.”

“Shut up!”

“Hey. No worries. I just need to clear up a few things in my head.”

“Well, I hope you end up getting a hair cut along the way.”

“Right, your Highness.”

“Safe trip, Michael.”

”Thanks. Bye.”

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*Ring. Ring.* “Hello? Oh, hey Iz. What’s up?”

“Oh, Max, I’ve been spending some time with Tess. You know, getting to know her better.”

“That’s great! Thanks, Iz. I know it’s put you in a bind with Liz’s friendship.”

“Well, Tess isn’t such a bad person, and I know that Liz is a very understanding person, Max.”

“Yeah, I know. Hey, Iz? A favor, please?”

”Sure. What’s up?”

“Lately, my relationship with Tess has consumed my life that I haven’t had the chance to talk to Liz to see how she’s been doing. I know that Kyle’s her new boyfriend and all, but I have this strong sensation that she’s detached herself.”

“Detached herself?”

“Yeah. I can’t really explain it. But there’s this void feeling about Liz.”

“Okay. Definitely weird, Max, but I’ll go check up on Liz anyway. You’re probably feeling guilty, as you should. I’ll go drop by after I drop off Tess at home. I assume she’ll be staying with you tonight?”

“You assume correctly. Thanks, Iz. I’ll see you tonight.”

“Okay, bye!”

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To Be Continued....