Eleven.

So, I was planning on letting the story end there, but the more I thought about it the more decided I think I have a little bit more left for Max and Rylie. And plus, after the performance Max had in that last game, it's the least I could do. :-)

Rylie's POV

I lay cradled in his arms, breathing heavily as he pulls me close to him. So many thoughts are going through my mind that I know no matter how tired and worn out I am, I wouldn't be able to sleep if I tried. I glance up at him, hating how he can sleep so peacefully, just like a small child would. He has the faintest smile on his face, and I can't help but find myself watching him sleep. He's always been so care free, so completely opposite from myself.

As good as this feels, I know that things are no where near fixed. I know that we still have issues, but I now at least know that I want to try. No, not want to. Need to. I need Max in my life.

I shake my head, trying to clear it as the pull of sleep is now heavy on my eyelids.


The next morning, I wake up to find that I'm not in his arms anymore. I reach across the bed, thinking I'll find him there, but the bed is cold, indicating he's been gone for some time now. I cock my head to the side, trying to hear if the shower is running, but I hear nothing. I squirm out of bed, reaching for my robe before heading downstairs, thinking he has to be down there. I check the living room and then the kitchen, but nothing. Shock overwhelms me while I head back upstairs, the formation of tears beginning in my eyes.

He couldn't have just left, could he? After last night, he would have left a note or something, right?

I walk over to my bed, looking for a note somewhere, but finding nothing. I walk into the bathroom, thinking maybe he stuck one to the mirror, but once again, nothing. The tears finally start to fall as I shed my clothing, starting the shower and standing under the scorching hot water.

I let the water run over me, trying to erase the feelings of his hands, but it doesn't work. If anything, the shower has me thinking of him even more, thinking about how sometimes he would surprise me by getting home early, his hands tracing around my stomach and bringing me closer to the warmth of his body..

I don't know how I could have been so stupid, putting myself out there like that, especially after what he did. I guess sometimes you always want to believe the best in some people..

Needing to get out of the house, I get ready in a hurry before heading off to the arena, knowing I'll be early but not caring anyways.

Max's POV

I wake up early despite the long night last night and can't help but stare down at her, at the way she fits into my arms and can't help but think that this is right, this is how things should be.

I know that things are still effed up between us, but I can't help but think that this is a start. At least she's talking to me again, right?

I look at her and I see exactly who I want to spend my future with. I've never even considered things like getting married, or even kids until I met her. But here lately, it's like picket fences and little rugrats running around is one of the things that is constantly on my mind. I can picture it now, her walking around barefoot, her stomach round, that beautiful smile on her face as she greets me in the morning..

I kiss her gently on the head before sliding out of her grasp. The least I could do would be to surprise her with breakfast and coffee.. I know how she can't function in the morning without it, and I'm sure she'll be tired today after the late night.

I consider leaving a note as I'm getting dressed, but seeing how hard she's sleeping, I figure I'll probably have enough time to go and be back before she's even awake..

I laugh to myself, remembering just how hard of a sleeper she is after she's been worn out, especially like last night, before heading for the door.