Author: Luv
Couples: Maria/Kyle. Isabel/Michael
Rating: PG13 for cursing

Pt. 1:

“Michael, don’t forget to turn off the grill,” Liz called into the kitchen.

“What do you think, I’m stupid?” came Michael’s angry reply.

“Yes,” Liz answered.

Isabel giggled from one of the booths.

Michael appeared in the doorway, still wearing his apron around his waist and a bandana over his unruly hair.

“I’m quitting,” he announced.

“No you’re not. You need the money,” Liz pointed out.

“I don’t care. This is it Liz, I’m quitting,” Michael said, reaffirming his previous assertion.

“Was he always like this?” Liz asked, turning around to face Isabel.

“No. He used to be worse,” Isabel said, laughing.

Michael’s face reddened, and he scowled.

“I hate you both,” Michael said.

Isabel rolled her eyes and Liz laughed.

“You are really gonna pay for this tomorrow Parker.”

“You mean you’re coming to work tomorrow? I thought you quit,” Liz questioned, her voice light. She and Michael had been working a lot together lately, and goading him was becoming one of her favorite activities.

“This free entertainment is great guys. Maybe I should hang out here more often,” Isabel said.

“Don’t you start with me too.”

“What did I do? I’m an innocent bystander,” Isabel said, batting her eyelashes.
 
“Innocent my ass,” Michael said, a hint of a smile masquerading under his perpetual scowl. He walked back into the kitchen.

“You know we love you Michael,” Liz called to him.

“Whatever,” he yelled back.

The girls heard him rustling around, like he was looking for something.

Michael reappeared a few moments later. Isabel was the first to notice the devilish look on his face.

“You’re up to something,” Isabel said knowingly.

“What did I do? I’m an innocent bystander,” he said, using her previous comment to mock her.

“Ha, ha.”

“What’s behind your back?” Liz asked.

“Nothing.”

“Yeah right. Show us.”

“Well since you asked.”

The girls screamed as a rush of cold water from the hose collided with their skin.

“You asshole,” Isabel cried.

“Stop it,” Liz yelled.

“I sought my revenge, and succeeded,” he said proudly. “So there,” he added, with a childish grin on his face.

“Quite mature Michael,” Liz said.

“Who gives a damn about mature. I wish you could have seen the looks on your faces, it was so funny.”

Michael started laughing at his own comment.

“This is priceless. You two are soaked,” he said, still chuckling.

“Yeah, we noticed. I’m also freezing Michael. The air conditioner is blowing on high.” Isabel said unhappily.

Michael stopped laughing.

“I’m sorry. I guess I shouldn’t have done that. Are you guys okay?” Michael asked sincerely.

Isabel broke out into a huge grin.

“That was way too easy. Not even Liz would break that fast.”

“Hey, or possibly thank you,” Liz said confused, but with a smile.
  
Michael glared at Isabel.

“Time to retaliate Isabel. I’m gonna go see what’s in the stockroom,” he said eagerly.

“No more fighting unless you want to stay and clean up the mess,” Liz said seriously.

“In that case, I’m outta here. Iz, you want a ride home?”

Isabel faltered for a minute before answering sure. 

A chorus of bye Liz rang out and Liz waved in response.

Closing time wasn’t usually this much fun, or this messy. Those aliens really are something else, she thought. Liz cleaned the water off the floor, and then retreated upstairs to change out of her wet clothes.

*****

“Stop squirming around Isabel,” Michael said to the blond alien sitting behind him on the motorcycle.

“I’m trying to keep warm Michael. I am freezing cold from the water you splashed on me,” Isabel responded.

Michael must have not heard her since he had already revved the engine. He drove for about two blocks when he suddenly felt Isabel’s hands loosen from around his waist.

Afraid she was going to fall off, Michael pulled over to the side of the road. He got off the bike, and was about to ask her what she was doing when he noticed Isabel wasn’t looking too good. She was shivering and her lips were turning blue.

“Shit, Isabel. What’s wrong with you. I would have stopped earlier if I knew you were cold.”

“I told you I was cold, you didn’t listen. Just give me your jacket and we can keep going. My house isn’t that far from here,” she said a bit harshly.

Michael draped the jacket around Isabel’s shoulders, and helped her put it on.

“I didn’t hear you,” he said, looking disgusted with himself.

“Relax Michael, I’ll be fine. A change of clothes and a hot shower is all I need.”

“You sure? Are you ready for another spin on the bike?”

“Yeah I’m ready. You know, this really is a great way to travel. I can’t believe I don’t ride with you more often.”

“Doesn’t the bike make you feel free?”

Isabel nodded her head in agreement

“Let’s fly.”

Isabel held tightly onto Michael, as he stepped on the clutch. He made it only a block before having to stop for a red light. It was then that the rain started. Not just a sprinkle either, but a major downpour. Then Isabel saw the flash of lightning. It had been so close to her that she could feel the static electricity on her skin.

Michael pulled over again to the side of the road.

“It’s dangerous out here. Let’s go back to the Crashdown.”

“Okay,” Isabel said.

Michael rode as fast as he could. The rain was not letting up, in fact, the drops were large and almost hail like, most unusual weather for a town in New Mexico. They reached the alley behind the Crashdown in no time. Michael pulled out a spare key Liz had gave him and let Isabel and himself into the back room. Michael found a few towels by the door and handed one to Isabel.

“I should go tell Liz we’re here,” Michael said.

“Ok.”

Michael disappeared for a few moments but soon came back down, a bunch of girl’s clothing in his arms.

“She was asleep and I didn’t want to wake her up. These clean clothes were in a basket by her door. I don’t think she’ll mind you changing into them.”

Isabel knew he was right, although she wasn’t sure the clothes would actually fit. Liz was much shorter and her body was shaped differently, but the gesture was nice and Isabel appreciated it.

“Thanks Michael.”

“Sure.”

“Did you find any clothes for you to change into? You must be cold too.” Isabel said concerned, mostly out of force of habit. Worrying about Michael was something she did often.

“I’m fine. It’s warm in here, I’ll dry off in a few minutes.”

Isabel wasn’t listening to his answer, she was busy changing out of her clothes. Michael snuck a quick peek before embarrassment kicked in.

“I could leave you know.”

“I’m almost done,” Isabel replied.

Not exactly the point I was trying to make, Michael thought.

Michael kept his back to Isabel, although he couldn’t help but glance at her periodically through the small mirror off to the side. He couldn’t help it, he was half human after all.

The phone rang. Michael picked it up after the first ring and recognized the voice immediately.

“Liz, are you there? Liz? Michael isn’t home. Where could he be? Didn’t he leave work already? What if he’s stuck in the storm? Liz? Answer me Liz.”

Michael groaned. Maria could be such high maintenance.

“Maria, you’re rambling.”

“Michael?”

“Yeah it’s me. Do I sound like Liz?”

“Why are you still at the Crashdown?”

“I got caught in the storm and decided to come back and wait it out here.”

“You want company?”

“No, don’t come here.”

“I know you want me there. I’ll be right over.”

“Maria, no.”

“I’ll be right there.”

Maria hung up the phone before Michael could get another word in.

“Apparently Maria is on her way here,” he told Isabel.

Isabel rolled her eyes.

“Why would she think of coming out in this storm, especially if it was so bad that you couldn’t even ride home in it?” Isabel asked.

“Because she isn’t too bright.” Michael answered.

Isabel chuckled.

“What do you want to do now?”

Michael looked around the kitchen and found a deck of cards.

“We can play cards, go fish or something.”

“Ooh, wild and crazy.”

“Shut up Izzy and deal.”

******

“Where are you going Maria?”

“To the Crashdown.”

A curious look formed on Kyle’s face.

“I don’t remember you ever being this stupid.”

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“Maria,  the storm of the century is brewing out there. I don’t think you would be able to make it down the street let alone all the way to the Crashdown.”

Maria walked to the window and peered outside. The water level on the streets had risen so greatly that half of the Jetta couldn’t even be seen. She knew Kyle was right.

“So I guess this means you aren’t leaving any time soon,” Maria said to Kyle.

“Thank you for the heartfelt invitation to stay.”

Maria glared at Kyle but said nothing.

“I can’t believe Mom wants us to bond. Why should we, it probably won’t work out between the two of them anyway.”

“I think you’re wrong about that.”

Maria sighed.

“I know. She’s so happy with him. It’s actually sickening.”

“Tell me about it.”

“We need a change of topic. So, what’s going on between you and Tess?”

“Nothing. She’s still hung up on Max. She could have me, but she wants him.”

Maria could see Kyle was uncomfortable with this conversation.

“Okay, how about another change of topic. Something that doesn’t involve our parents or blond aliens.”

“Sex.”

“What?” Maria asked, a blush rising to her face.

“Sex. I believe you know what that is Maria. I just don’t get something. We’re teenagers living in typical Small Town, USA.  By definition we are supposed to spend all of our time drinking beer and having sex. I haven’t done either in a very long time.”

Maria smiled. This conversation could get fun.

“That must be just awful Kyle. If you really want I’m sure I could find a beer or two in the fridge,” Maria said sarcastically.

“Are you trying to liquor me up, De Luca?”

Maria made a dramatic face.

“Oh yeah baby, you know it.”

Kyle laughed. 

“I want to know what you’re thinking.”

“About what?” Maria said impatiently, putting her hands on her hips.

“Sex.”

“I’m not talking about that with you.”

“Why not? We’re just having a friendly conversation.”

“You want friendly. Here it the truth, Kyle. I’ve never had sex, and I don’t know when I’ll be ready to. I know what you’re thinking, Maria’s a prude, right? Well I’m not. My mother was a baby when she had me, and I know how royally I fucked up her life. She doesn’t say it, but I know its true. I don’t want to make another child feel like that.” Maria finished talking and walked over to the window. She just bared her soul to Kyle Valenti of all people, and was feeling a little embarrassed. 

Kyle just watched her silently. His father used to say you could see a person every day and still not know anything about them. He was right.

********

“One order of french fries and Tabasco for the cheating card shark,” Michael said, calling out from the kitchen. He got no response. He turned off the shove and transferred the food to a large plate.

“Hey princess, I thought you were hungry,” Michael said as he walked into the back room where Isabel had been waiting.

Only now she wasn’t there. Or so he thought at first glance. Sweeping over the room carefully, Michael found Isabel, lying on the ground, sweating and shivering uncontrollably. Michael dropped the plate of food and rushed to her side.

“Woah, Isabel. What happened?” he wondered aloud.

He dropped to his knees, and panic suddenly flooded his brain. His first instinct was to wake up Liz or call Max. He decided the previous would be his first plan of action.

“I’m going to get Liz, hopefully she can help,” Michael said softly.

Michael sprinted up the stairs and crept into Liz’s room quietly. He rushed to the bed and shook her shoulders forcefully to wake her up, but not enough to cause pain.

“What? What?” Liz asked, groggy from being woken from sleep, and confused as to who was doing the waking.

“We need help.”

“Michael? I thought you went home hours ago?”

“There is a really bad storm outside and I couldn’t make it home, so Isabel and I came back. We were waiting out the storm in the back room, and everything was fine but now Isabel is sick or something and I don’t know what to do,” Michael said his words coming out fast and mumbled. Even in her sleepy state, Liz understood what was happening. She jumped out of bed, put her bathrobe on and followed Michael downstairs.


Liz gasped at the sight of Isabel on the floor.

“Do you remember when you had that fever Michael?”

“Sort of.”

“This is what you looked like,” Liz said in horror.

Michael cursed under his breath. He had been hoping Liz wouldn’t say that.

“How can this be? Isabel wasn’t near River Dog and didn’t drink that potion like I did.” Michael said, confused.

“Could it be the storm somehow?”

“I guess anything is possible.”

Liz went over to the door and opened it a crack. It had not calmed down one bit since it first started. Looking up at the sky, Liz noticed something unusual.

“Michael, the sky is glowing.”

Michael joined Liz by the door. The sky was almost an electric green.

“Shit.”

“What do we do?”

“Do you think Max will know what to do?”

“Probably not, but we should call him anyway.”

Liz left to call Max and Michael sat down beside Isabel again. Michael pulled her closer, hoping some of his body heat would calm her shaking. She was freezing cold, and her lips were almost a dark purple.

“Don’t worry Izzy, we’ll figure this all out.”

******
Part 2:

Liz returned to Michael and Isabel after calling Max. After much deliberation, they both agreed it was too dangerous for Max to drive in the storm. Max said he would call Tess and see if she knew anything about alien illnesses. For now, they should just keep Isabel as warm and comfortable as possible. Max swore that if Isabel’s conditioned got any worse that not even the storm could stop him from being there with his sister.

“Does Max have any idea what to do?”

“When you were sick, River Dog was able to tell us how to heal you. This is different Michael, we have no idea what is causing her sickness. Max is going to see if Tess has any ideas. He should be calling back soon.”

Michael looked disheartened, he had hoped Max could be of some help.

“What if she dies Liz?”

“She won’t. We won’t let her, okay?”

Michael nodded.

“Did Max say anything at all?”

“He said to keep her warm and comfortable. Are those blankets helping?”

“No, she’s still frozen. It looks like she was kept in a freezer for a month or something.”

“Michael, I know of one thing that may help.”

“What?” Michael asked.

“Body heat.”

“I tried that, I don’t think it helped.”

Liz shook her head; Michael wasn’t understanding what she was trying to say.

“I mean, um, skin to skin contact.”

Michael looked at Liz like she was crazy.

“I know what you’re thinking Michael, but if it helps Isabel, won’t you consider it?”

“You don’t know what I’m thinking.”

They both were quiet. Out of nowhere, Isabel gasped, and a violent spasm overcame her for a moment.

“If you won’t do it Michael, I guess I will,” Liz said quietly.

“No, I’ll do it.” This was something he had to do for Isabel.

Michael took off his shoes and socks first. He unbuckled his belt and slowly removed it from his waist. If Isabel wasn’t in such grave danger, he could have laughed at the situation. Liz was trying not to look at him, but had a blush on her cheeks anyway.

“If you want to go you can,” Michael said.

“I think I should be here in case she gets worse,” Liz replied.

A huge clap of thunder sounded and Michael couldn’t help but jump a little. He had never been afraid of thunderstorms as a child, even though Isabel and Max were always petrified.

“I’ll undress her,” Liz said uneasily. She lifted up Isabel’s shirt and gently pushed it up over her head. Despite the coldness of Isabel’s body, the shirt was soaked with perspiration. Isabel was wearing a skirt, and it wasn’t hard for Liz to take it off.

Michael looked over to Isabel, who was clad only in her bra and underwear. He saw her ribs under the surface of her skin and watched her chest rise and fall.

His belt now gone, Michael easily pulled off his jeans, revealing a pair of plaid boxers. He quickly unbuttoned his shirt and threw it onto the pile of clothing.

“Michael, hurry up,” Liz said.

Michael lowered himself to the ground and pulled Isabel up against his body. He recoiled at first, for her body felt so unnaturally cold against his warm skin. Wanting to give her as much of his body heat as possible, Michael wrapped his legs around her and shifted Isabel so she was now partially under him. They were completely entwined after Michael placed his arms around Isabel’s torso. Michael knew this could end in one of two ways, either it would work or it wouldn’t. He closed his eyes and hoped for a miracle.

******
“Maria?”

“What?” Maria said harshly, as Kyle’s voice brought her out of her daydream.

“Nothing. Forget it.”

“Kyle, I’m sorry. What did you want?”

“I was just wondering if you were ok. I mean, I couldn’t tell if the last 20 minutes of silence was you being mad at me for asking such a personal question, or if you just lost all motor capabilities to speak.”

“A little of both.”

“In that case, I think I’m going to brave the storm and head home. I know you don’t really want me here. Hey, at least in my own house I have a Playstation to keep me occupied while I’m ignored.”

“I didn’t mean to ignore you.”

“Thanks, but I’m still leaving.”

“You can’t. If you go and get into an accident, your father will kill me for letting you leave. Then my mother will kill me again for letting her boyfriend’s son drive in a horrible storm. You’re stuck here until the weather clears up.”

“Well, since you said it so nicely and all.”

Kyle picked up a framed picture of Maria and her mother, and stared at it curiously.

“What?” Maria asked.

“I’ve almost forgotten what it’s like to have a mother,” he said, as if ashamed.

“I never thought about it before, but we’re very similar, you and I.”

“Yeah, why?”

“I’ve almost forgotten what it’s like to have a father.”

“Maria?”

“Yeah, Kyle.”

“I’m completely depressed now.”

“Me too.”

“I think I know of something fun to do.”

“Really? What’s that?”

“You’ll see,” he said cryptically, taking her hand and leading her away from the living room.

*****
Part3:

“Liz, can you put another blanket over us?” Michael asked.

“Sure.”

Liz and Michael didn’t speak for a few minutes. They were both waiting to see if Michael’s heat did anything to affect Isabel’s condition. Liz was the first to notice the color come back into Isabel’s face and lips.

“Michael, look,” Liz exclaimed.

“She isn’t as cold Liz,” Michael stated.

“That’s a good sign that this is working,” Liz responded.

“It may be working now, but what if that’s not enough. She’s my future, my destiny. If Isabel dies, I’ll have nothing.”

Liz stood there, shocked by Michael’s confession.

“Um, you could, um, try and make a link with her Michael. Maybe she can tell us what’s happening to her that way.”

Michael closed his eyes and tried to make a connection with Isabel. They used to do that often when they were younger. The two would hold hands and try to read the other’s mind. It had always worked. Michael concentrated as hard as he could. As he suspected, numerous flashes came to him.

He saw cells, alien cells. There was something else too, a virus. They were fighting against each other. Michael automatically knew what had happened.

“The skins released an alien virus into the atmosphere. They used the storm as an agent to infect us,” he told Liz.

“Why didn’t it affect you Michael?” Liz asked.

“My human immune system must have killed the virus immediately. She was weak though. Emotionally, I mean.  Hers couldn’t defend itself.”

“Emotionally weak? Isabel?” Liz said, shaking her head in disbelief. Isabel was the strongest girl she knew.

“Killing Whitaker must have taken a greater toll on her than we thought.”

“How come she never let us know?”

“Because she’s Isabel.”

Liz knew that was true.

“Well, now that this virus has infected her, what do we do about it?”

“The virus is attacking her alien cells, but this specific virus really isn’t strong enough to kill us. The skins probably wanted the four of us incapacitated, but not dead.”

Liz tried to take all this information in.

“Sounds like bad science fiction doesn’t it? It’s the story of my life,” Michael said. He continued.

“My body heat is giving her alien cells the energy it needs to fight the virus. It shouldn’t take too long before it is destroyed entirely.”

Liz breathed a sigh of relief.  

“So its just a matter of time?”

“I think so.”

“I’ll go call Max and let him know. He’s probably frantic.”

“That’s a good idea.”

Liz left the room, leaving Michael alone with Isabel.

He spoke softly to her, even though she was still unconscious.

“This was too close Isabel. There must be more skins out there, and now we know they have technology to hurt us. Are we strong enough to fight them?”

Isabel trembled, and Michael felt a shiver creep up his spine. She was still so cold. If Michael hadn’t seen the virus being attacked with his own eyes, he would swear that Isabel was seconds away from death. She was still breathing, although most unsteadily, and her pulse was pretty strong. It was the coldness that really scared him though. There was no possible way for them to be any closer. Michael ran his hands up and down her arms, hoping to bring forth more warmth. He made the same movements with his legs, rubbing them over Isabel’s lower body.

Liz was on the phone with Max when she heard Michael scream. She dropped the phone, ignoring the fact that Max was yelling at her, wondering what was going.

“Michael, what’s wrong?” Liz cried.

Liz couldn’t move past the doorframe, she was so terrified. Michael was staring at Isabel’s stomach, which had turned a blackish blue color over where her intestines were located.

“She’s bleeding internally,” Michael said, stating the obvious.

“Why? I thought the virus was being attacked? What would cause bleeding?”

“I have no idea Liz.”

“Do you think you could heal her? You were able to make a connection, is it possible you can heal as well, like Max does.”

“No, I can’t. We need Max.”

“We don’t have time to wait for Max.”

Knowing she was right, Michael released Isabel from his embrace and positioned her on her back. Michael placed his hand over Isabel’s stomach, mimicking the movement Max had made when healing Liz and Kyle. Michael had once healed River Dog’s broken ankle; maybe he could heal Isabel as well.

******

“Kyle, I look stupid.”

“That’s the point,” Kyle said.

Click

“You’re going to use these pictures to blackmail me, I know it.”

“You’re very astute.”

Click

“Time for a new costume,” Maria said.

“You don’t like wearing the tutu and poodle skirt?”

“Not particularly. I look like a freak.”

“How’s that any different from the way you usually look?”

Maria took off the tutu and threw it at Kyle, hitting him square on the head.

“Only you could make photography dangerous.”

Maria had tuned Kyle out, and was searching through the chest for more clothes.

“Ooh, look what I found.”

“Oh no.”

“A tripod. Looks like you’re getting out from behind the camera Valenti.”

“I’m not photogenic, I think I’ll stay right where I am thank you.”

Maria put her hands on Kyle’s face and pinched his cheeks.

“Look at this pretty face, you were meant to be in pictures. What do you say, matching tutu’s?”

“I’ll be in the pictures on two conditions. One, I’m not wearing spandex material of any kind.”

“Fine. What’s the second stipulation?”

“I was just getting to it. And two, we have to take a few pictures on that swing.”

Kyle pointed to the corner of the attic where an old swing was hanging down from the ceiling.

“What is that? I didn’t know we had a swing up here?”

“It’s antique, but looks sturdy enough to use. What do you say?”

“I say get yourself changed into this and we’ll put this camera to good use.”

Maria handed Kyle an old fashioned suit. For herself, she picked up a dress that must have belonged to her great grandmother. It was a rose colored satin dress, with a lacy top, and a flowing skirt.

They changed into their respective outfits, being wary not to look at the other.

Kyle finished dressing. He began to set up the camera in the tripod.

“Why do I have to wear this monkey suit? It smells like moth balls,” he complained.

“Just shut up, this is going to be fun.”

Maria turned around and smiled.

“You clean up nice.”

Kyle was looking through the camera and focused it on Maria.

Click.

“So do you.”

“Thanks. Is the camera all set?”

“All ready. What do we do now?”

“How about this. For the first picture you sit on swing and I’ll stand behind you. I’ll start pushing you just as the shudder goes off.”

“Ooh, that sounds pretty.”

Kyle went to set the timer and Maria took her spot on the swing. As soon as it was set, Kyle rushed behind the swing and just as the shudder went off, Maria was flying high into the air. They took a few more shots like this and then reversed it so Kyle was on the swing and Maria was pushing him.

“Ok, now its time for more dramatic poses.”

“Dramatic?”

“Yeah. You’ve seen those old photographs. Everyone is looking all prim and proper. Let’s take some like that.”

“Whatever you want.”

“Now that’s what I like to hear.”

A huge clap of thunder interrupted Maria. She flinched.

“I figured the storm would have died down already.” She had a worried look on her face.

“Hey, don’t think about anything but posing for these pictures okay?”

“Okay.”

Maria sat back on the swing. Kyle set the camera so it would take multiple pictures in a row, and walked back towards Maria.

“Stand behind me,” she said.

Kyle obeyed.

“You could come a little closer.”

He inched closer.

“Pretend you like me, come on.”

She reached behind and pulled Kyle closer to her.

Click

“Was that so hard?”

“No.”

“This time, touch me.”

“What?”

“Here,” Maria said, taking Kyle’s arms and wrapping them around her waist. “This is called human contact. Now, smile.”

Click

“Ok, now one of those staring deep into each others eyes pictures. I’ve always wanted to do that.”

Maria got off the swing and motioned for Kyle to sit down. He complied and she sat down on his lap. Kyle lifted Maria’s chin towards his.

“Now don’t laugh,” she said. They looked at one another. There was no laughter.

Click

Neither broke the gaze.

Click

Kyle stood up quickly, practically throwing Maria off the swing in the process.

“I’m thirsty, or hungry or something,” he said, walking towards the attic door.

“We’re done?” Maria asked, almost sadly.

“Um, we can do a few more, but only if I get to be photographer again.”

“Alright, if you want.”

Kyle removed the camera from the tripod, and focused it on Maria.

“Don’t pout, it’s not attractive.”

“It’s called sultry.”

Click

Kyle zoomed in on Maria’s face.

Click

Kyle zoomed in further, focusing on Maria’s full pink lips. 

Click

“Kyle? What are you doing?”

“Taking pictures dummy.”

“Of what exactly. You didn’t tell me to pose.”

“Your face. It’s so pretty.”

Maria was surprised by the compliment.

“Thank you. What now Mr. Photographer?”

Kyle didn’t hear Maria, he was still looking through the viewfinder at Maria’s face.

“Earth to Kyle. Come in Kyle.”

“I think we need more film. I’ll, uh, be back.”

Kyle started for the door, and Maria got up, prepared to follow him.

“Kyle?”

Kyle looked back into the room at Maria. He couldn’t get the image of her lips out of his head. Before either of them knew it, Kyle had lifted Maria up, crashing her body against his. Maria wrapped her legs around his waist, causing Kyle to stumble backwards into the wall. He kissed her then, eagerly yet slowly, wanting to consume as much of her possible. The kiss ended, and Maria slipped out of Kyle’s embrace. She sat back down on the swing, and watched as Kyle left the room, her lipstick smeared across his lips.

*********

Michael could feel himself falling. He had never attempted to heal anyone like this before, and the sensation was incredible. Michael was in Isabel’s subconscious.

“I’m not leaving.”

Isabel was having a conversation with someone, but Michael didn’t see anyone else there.

“I’m not ready to die, I want to live. Leave me alone.”

Isabel made a jerking motion, like she was being pulled.

“NO! I won’t go with you.”

She made an angry face.

“Don’t say that, I’m NOT Vilandra.”

Isabel was very mad now.

“I’m not helping you. I want to stay with Michael.”

Michael was surprised to hear his name.

“Of course he does.”

Does what? Michael wondered.

“He’s trying to save me at this very moment. I feel him, his hands trying to heal my wounds.”

Isabel fell to the ground.

“You hit me! You asshole.”

Isabel pulled herself to her feet.

“Max, Michael and Tess are going to destroy the Skins, and you.”

The angry look returned to Isabel’s face.

“Laughing at me is a big mistake.”

She reached out her hand, and a flash of light flew out. Isabel winced, but then smiled.

“Like I said, you should have listened to me. Nobody laughs at Isabel Evans and gets away with it.”

Isabel looked around, like a little kid who is lost and looking for their parents. Then she started to run, as if being chased.

“Go away,” she yelled.

Isabel fell down again, and this time didn’t get up. It seemed like she was being pinned to the ground by some force.

“I’m not making any deals,” Isabel spat out.

Isabel shook her head no repeatedly.

“You’ll show me the future?” That’s my compensation? I don’t think so.”

Isabel’s face reddened on one cheek. She had been slapped, hard.

Michael wanted to go over to help her, but he was rooted to the spot. He wasn’t having much progress healing her, that Michael knew for sure. He didn’t want to leave her though, and so he kept the connection going. He concentrated harder, this time focusing more on the damaged tissue. Isabel started to fade from his view, but after a moment she came back, the image as clear as before.

“Fuck you,” Isabel cried.

She had stopped holding her stomach, as if the pain was no more.

“What’s going on?” she asked, scared.

Isabel was given an answer, one that made her happy.

“I told you he would,” she said.

Apparently whoever Isabel was communicating with had left for Isabel screamed loudly.

“Good riddance!”

Michael was confused. What the hell was going on? There was an explosion of energy and suddenly Michael was spiraling away from Isabel.

“Michael? What happened?” Liz was asking repeatedly.

Michael was back in the Crashdown. He looked down at Isabel, and noticed that the internal bleeding had ceased. Michael had healed Isabel, but she wasn’t waking up.

“You did it, didn’t you?” Liz said.

“I think so,” he answered.

“Are you okay?” Liz asked. “What did you see?”

Michael didn’t know how to respond, because he truly had no idea what he had seen.

“I saw Isabel.” He sat down next to Isabel and pulled her into his arms again, the way he had been holding her before. She wasn’t cold anymore, and her breathing was more stable.

Isabel opened her eyes.

“You,” she whispered, her breath labored.

Michael sighed a deep breath of relief.

“I thought we lost you,” he said. He tightened his grip on her, as if letting her go would cause her to vanish.

“You healed me. You made him leave.”

“Who was that Isabel? I heard you talking to him.”

“It was a skin. Somehow his entity got into my body. He wanted to take me back home.”

“I’d never let that happen.”

“I know.”

“Michael?”

“Yeah Iz?”

“Um, I’m grateful you saved my life but I have one question.”

“What’s that?”

“Well, why am I naked?”

Michael and Liz looked at each other.

“I’ll explain it to you later.”
********

Part 4:

“Get out of the doorway.”

“No.”

“Maria!”

“What?

“I want to talk to you.”

“I’m at work. Do you not see me being busy?”

“The Crashdown is closed Maria.”

“No, you guys are here. Liz and I are still working.”

“Maria, it’s Isabel’s ‘we’re glad you’re not dead party’. I don’t think they will mind if you’re gone for 5 minutes.”

“Is that really the name of the party? It’s kinda morbid.”

“Maria, not the point. But hey, its not morbid, I was the one who made it up.”

“Not surprising.”

“MARIA!”

“Can’t we talk later?”

“How much later do you want it? Hell, we kissed a week ago, I think this is late enough.”

“Fine, just shh. This isn’t public knowledge yet.”

Maria pulled Kyle into the kitchen where they would have some privacy.

“So, if you want to talk, then talk.”

“I’m freaked out.”

Maria wasn’t expecting that.

“I kissed my sister,” Kyle continued.

Now Maria understood.

“I’m not your sister Kyle.”

“Well, not right now but you probably will be in the future.”

“We won’t really be brother and sister. You know that. Come on Kyle. What’s really going on?”

Kyle didn’t speak and it made Maria nervous.

“I like you.”

“Oh.”

“I can’t believe I said that, just forget it,” Kyle said quickly, his face reddening.

“I like you too.”

“No you don’t.”

“Yes, I do,” she said shaking her head up and down.

“What about Guerin?”

“Surprisingly I haven’t thought about him once since, you know. I think I’m actually over him.”

“Because of me?”

“Don’t flatter yourself Valenti.”

“Come here.”

“I thought you’d never ask.”

The two embraced and Kyle held Maria tight.

“I wanted to do this all week.”

Just then the kitchen door swung open.

“Oh, um hi,” Liz said flabbergasted, clutching the empty serving tray to her chest. 

Maria flew over to her friend, and said calmly.

“Can you keep my secret Liz?”

Liz nodded, still unsure exactly what secret she was supposed to be keeping.

“Go back and enjoy the party. We’ll bring out the food okay?”

“You better know what you’re doing,” Liz said to her best friend before retreating back the way she came.

“I know what I’m doing. Do you Kyle?”

The grin on Kyle’s face spoke volumes.

***********
“Hey.”

“Hey.”

“Enjoying your party?”

“Yeah Michael, it was nice of everyone to do this for me.”

“It was just so scary Isabel, I think we all need this party to calm our nerves and let us forget about the possibility of other aliens for awhile.”

“I feel like this is my fault somehow.”

“It’s not. Don’t even think that.”

“But he spoke to me. He came for me didn’t he?”

“We don’t know anything for sure, especially not that.”

“At least there have been no more freak storms. I mean, the last one subsided right after the internal bleeding stopped and it hasn’t come back since. Maybe its over for good.”

“Let’s hope so.”

“Look at everyone having such a good time for once. It’s nice to see them smiling.”

Max, Tess and Alex were involved in some conversation that was making them all giggle and Liz was fluttering about, setting the table and acting like a hostess.

“Yeah, everyone looks happy lately. Isabel, you’re eyes are all cloudy. Are you okay?”

“Michael, I need your help,” Liz called out, interrupting Michael’s question.

“We’ll continue this in a few. What do you need Liz?” He yelled, walking towards the grill area where Liz was standing.

He stopped and rested his arms on the counter, waiting for Liz to give him directions.

Only he didn’t get to hear Liz’s directions.

Michael fell to the floor, blood pouring out of the wound in his back. He let out a shrill cry, which brought his affliction to everyone’s attention.

Max ran over to his friend, but stopped cold inches away from where Michael lay. His eyes were glued to Isabel, who stood over Michael, a bloody knife clasped in her hand.

She was speaking, but it was not Isabel’s voice. It was deep and masculine.

“Rath must die,” the voice repeated.

“Look at the ceiling Max,” Tess called out.

The ceiling was the same electric green that the sky had been during the alien storm.

“What’s happening Max?” Alex asked, frantic.

“I have no idea.”

Maria and Kyle ran into the room, having heard Michael scream.

“No, no,” Maria cried. She tried to run to Michael but Kyle held her back.

“Stay with me, let Max heal him,” Kyle said to her.

Maria adhered and let Kyle wrap his arms around her. If anybody noticed their closeness, it wasn’t mentioned.

Isabel was screaming aloud, and it was frightening everyone.

“You stole her from me. You must pay Rath.”

Max was whispering frantically to Tess that the only way to get Isabel to drop the knife would be to mind warp her into believing Michael was dead and the knife was no longer needed. Tess closed her eyes and the mind warp began.

The knife fell to the ground as predicted. Alex swiftly picked it up and placed it far out of her reach. Isabel was about to walk towards the exit when Max yelled for Kyle and Alex to grab her and tie her down.

The two boys easily snatched Isabel and used a rope Liz provided to tie Isabel in a chair.

After this was done, Max knelt beside Michael and turned him onto his back and lifted up his shirt. The wound was deep and lacerated. Max placed his hand on the wound and concentrated on mending the tissue and nerves. After a moment, the healing was successful and Michael sat up. Max sat next to him, tired and shaken. The two embraced and Max looked like he was going to cry.

“You two are trying to kill me. Did you both have to go and die in the same week?”

“Are you okay?” Maria said, as she ran to Michael.

“I’m fine,” he answered sincerely.

Michael looked confused then.

“Wait, I don’t even remember what happened. I died too? How?”

“Isabel stabbed you,” Liz said meekly.

Michael saw Isabel tied up in the chair. He bolted to his feet.

“Look at her face, she’s possessed by the Skins.”

Isabel’s face was contorting and her features were changing by the minute.

“What do we do now Max?” Tess asked.

“How do we save her?” Alex questioned.

“I don’t know.” Max said.

“I think the Skin’s power is in Isabel now. The glowing on the ceiling is coming from her, it’s not in the sky like before. That means Isabel controls it,” Michael answered.

“I’m not killing my sister,” Max said, his voice getting angry.

“That’s not what I said. Nothing bad is going to happen to her, we just have to think of a solution to get the Skin out without causing her harm.”

“Easier said than done.”

“Yeah I know Maxwell. We have to think really hard, this is Isabel we’re talking about.”

The two boys just looked at each other.

“I can’t lose Isabel,” Max said sadly.

“We won’t.”

“MAX! I think I know what to do!” Tess yelled excitedly.

They all turned to look at her.

“Nasedo never mentioned the Skins specifically but said that some species of alien can become like a parasite and infect a host. Then they would have access to the body and be able to vanquish their enemies. We need to get the Skins entity out of her body so then you and Michael can use your powers on him. I believe that will work to kill the Skin once and for all.”

“Well, how do we get the Skins entity out of her body?”

“Anyone see the movie the Exorcist?”

“Tess, your joking right.”

“No, that would be the only way.”

“Does anyone know how to perform an Exorcism?”

“Stop it, we don’t need an Exorcism. I know what to do,” Michael said.

He now had everyone’s attention.

“I’m the link,” Michael said slowly.

“I kill it, we’ve solved our problem.”

“Do you know how?”

“Something in my gut is telling me to do this…” Michael’s voice trailed off, as he raised his hand and a bolt of energy soared through the air towards the green cloud on the ceiling. At impact, a bright light radiated from Isabel, and her body lurched like she had been hit by lightening. Max screamed out in fright, and the others quickly took cover under tables. 

Michael’s arms were still outstretched when the bright light slowly started to fade. He looked around frantically, hoping that he hadn’t killed Isabel in the process of destroying the Skin. She was still there, but now slumped over in her seat. He ran over to her.

Isabel’s facial features were back to normal, but she wasn’t breathing. Michael tilted her head back, and breathed into her mouth. Still nothing changed. He checked her pulse, which was surprisingly strong. He titled her head back and again and breathed once more into her mouth. This time, she gasped and started choking.

“Got the wind knocked out of you, huh?” Michael said softly.

Isabel was too weak to do anything but nod.

The others had come our of their hiding spots by this time and were hovering around Isabel and Michael. One by one they looked up at the ceiling, and were relieved that there was no green cloud there anymore. It was over, and this time for good.
******

The Next Day:

“What’s up with you and Michael?” Tess asked Isabel, as they were walking down the hallway.

“Nothing.”

“Exactly.”

“What? You’re making no sense.”

“He saves your life, twice I might add, and I hear you’ve been ignoring him.”

“It’s been a day.”

“A whole day!! Did you even say thank you?”

“Of course I did, its just, I feel weird around him now.”

“Why?”

“I STABBED HIM TESS!” Isabel yelled loudly, causing a few students to turn around and stare.

Isabel lowered her voice and continued.

“He died because some creepy alien dude with a jones for me possessed my body and wanted to take me away from him. Thankfully Max was there to bring him back, or we’d all be burying him right now. What can I say to him after that?”

“Say anything.”

Isabel thought about that for a moment. She’d never been afraid to talk to Michael before. She made up her mind to have a chat with him later.

******
“I’m not going in the eraser room with you.”

“Oh, yes you are. Come on…”

Kyle waited for Maria’s snappy comeback, but he never received one.

“Hello!!!” he taunted.

“Things have changed Kyle,” Maria said suddenly.

“Is this about Guerin?”

“Yes, no, yes.”

“Fine then forget this. Go back to him without giving us a shot. I’ll see you around Maria.”

“No wait,” Maria said, grabbing his arm to stop him from leaving.

“Fine, eraser room,” she said, as they walked towards the small room together.

Maria closed the door behind them, and Kyle walked all the way to the other side of the room. He was visibly angry.

“I don’t want to hear how you love Guerin and that seeing him die made you rediscover your old feelings.”

“If you’d shut up then you’d know that isn’t what I’m going to say.”

“Then just say it.”

“Seeing Michael die brought back some old feelings, that’s true. I was scared, and the thought of losing him really hurt. But I didn’t feel like my whole world was crashing. The look Michael gave Isabel when he saw her tied up in that chair, that panic that the person you love is going to leave you forever, that wasn’t mirrored in my face. That’s a big change for me Kyle, because I thought I felt that way about Michael. Yet, I don’t.”

“What are you saying Maria?”

“I feel that way about you,” Maria said in a teeny voice.

“Are you sure?” Kyle asked.

“I’m positive.”

They embraced and kissed for about a minute before Kyle pulled back and said.

“You really think Guerin has the hots for Isabel?”

“I know that boy like the back of my hand. Trust me, Michael has it bad.”


“Hey,” Isabel said tentatively, placing a hand on Michael’s shoulder.

Michael jumped up, startled.

“Trying to kill me again?” he said, half-heartedly.

“I didn’t mean to do that. I would never, um, stab you.”

“Isabel I know that. I’m not mad at you.”

“Not even a little?”

“Nope.”

“But Michael, I hurt you.”

“It wasn’t you Isabel. That disgusting Skin got into your mind and took hold of your body.”

“I still feel bad.”

“Isabel, don’t let this bother you. I swear, I’ll probably forget about it by tomorrow.”

“I can’t forget it Michael. I remember seeing you drop to your knees.”

“Isabel stop it. You are such a pain sometimes. What else can I say to relieve your guilt? You think I’m going to hold this over your head for the rest of our life together because I’m not.”

“What did you say?”

“What?”

“Rest of our life together? Do you want to follow our destiny?”

“I said that?”

“Michael!”

“I held you in my arms while you were on the brink of death. That did something to me Isabel. The alien part of me was screaming, don’t let her die she’s your mate while the human part of me was screaming, don’t let her die she’s Isabel your best friend. I think we need to give destiny a try, give us a try.”

“This is going to change things. What about Maria?”

“Maria and I are over. Didn’t you see her all over Valenti last night? She’s moved on.”

“That’s all well and good Michael, but there is one problem.”

“What’s that?”

“You’re not my type.”

Michael looked hurt. Isabel laughed at her own joke.

“That was low Isabel.”

“Oh, shut up you knew I was kidding.”

“Isabel?”

“What Michael?”

“Do you feel like being in school?”

“Not particularly. What do you have in mind?”

“Road trip?”

“Okay, I’m game.”

“Let’s go find some cliffs.”

The End.