Author's note: Thank you to everyone who continues to support this universe! It's near and dear to my heart, but I realize it's not for everyone. So thank you. Just a slight note on updates: I'm working on my AU project for the month of December so updates make be spotty on my current WIPs. If you want details on that, check out my Tumblr page. Enjoy this one!
Disclaimer: Ha! No.
Chapter 2
"What?" Emma looked from Killian to Liam, unable to believe what she was hearing. That man was their father? After all this time? It didn't seem possible.
Killian scowled at the door, then turned to forcibly move Liam away from it. Liam still hadn't spoken, utterly stunned. Emma followed as Killian steered them to the living room, their happy breakfast forgotten. Killian was muttering to himself as they sat on the couch; his ears and neck were bright red, a sure sign of his fury. Emma wasn't afraid, just concerned. She hated seeing them in pain.
"Killian, talk to me," she urged gently, kneeling in front of them. She took one of their hands in each of hers, letting them know she was there.
"How dare he?" Killian cried, his blue eyes wet with unshed tears. He was angry, so angry, but more than that, he was hurt. Their father was alive and well. He was alive, long after Killian had just assumed he was dead. It was easier to believe Ioan was dead than to believe that he'd just left them and chose to never come back. "How fucking dare he?!"
Emma shook her head, feeling helpless. She didn't have any answers. "Killian...are you sure it's him? You were so young then..."
"It's him," Liam said hollowly. Emma looked over at him; he looked wrecked and not in the way she liked. He had the look of a man whose life no longer made sense. Her heart broke for him.
"Oh Liam." She moved into the space between them, wrapping her arms around him. He laid his head on her shoulder; she gently rubbed his back. Killian curled up next to her, his head in her lap. She didn't know what else to do, comforting people wasn't exactly her strong suit. She could tell they weren't ready to talk about it, so she wouldn't force them.
She wasn't sure how long they stayed that way; Liam was the first to stir. "Could we...go to bed?"
Emma nodded. "Of course. Killian?"
"Aye, that sounds good." Together, they trooped upstairs. Emma would clean up the kitchen later; the boys were her priority. She was burning with curiosity about the man at their door but she reigned it in for their sake. The boys silently stripped to the waist, Emma ducked into the bathroom to use the facilities before returning to bed. Liam followed as soon as she was done, splashing water on his face. He still felt numb, unable to process the massive shock. He'd never expected to see his father again; it still felt like a bizarre dream. All he could do was hold on to the one solid thing in his world: his family.
Emma and Killian were huddled together on the bed, foreheads pressed together. Liam slipped in quietly, wrapping his arms around Emma's waist. "There you are," Emma said with a soft smile.
"Hmm. This is good."
Emma turned a little, cupping his cheek. "You don't have to talk. We can just stay here. For as long as you need."
"Thank you, my love." He kissed her sweetly; Emma melted into him. They sighed into the kiss, keeping it slow and comforting. When they broke for air, she kissed Killian too, fingers lightly scratching through his scruff.
"I love you, Emma," Killian said, rubbing her nose with his.
"Love you too. Both of you. So, so much."
Liam buried his nose in her hair, inhaling her warm sunflower scent. It soothed his stormy soul. His emotions were so confused; he needed the purity of his love for her. For their family. Killian tangled his legs with Emma's, the contact easing his battered heart. They'd been so happy less than an hour ago; it was insane just how quickly all that could change.
Emma wanted to find Ioan and rage at him. Seeing her boys like this absolutely broke her heart and she knew it wouldn't get better quickly. She also had a terrible feeling that being brushed off once would not deter the man who rudely invaded their lives. For now though, she would do whatever it took to make them feel safe.
At some point they fell into a fitful slumber, their chaotic emotions exhausting. Liam woke up first, gasping, drenched in sweat. The nightmare was so vivid; he could still see it when he closed his eyes.
"Liam?" Emma asked groggily.
"Go back to sleep, lass."
She rolled over, shaking her head. She snuggled close, her hand rubbing his chest. "Wanna talk about it?"
He hugged her to him. "Twas just a nightmare, love."
"You haven't had one in a while," she observed quietly. After they came home from the hospital, both brothers had terrible recurring nightmares of their experiences in the bombed building. Emma spent many nights being woken up by their tossing and screams. They got through it with love and patience; she didn't want to think of this as a setback for either of them.
Unfortunately, that wasn't up to her.
Liam kissed her brow. "I know. I'm sorry."
"You have nothing to be sorry for," she said firmly. "You didn't ask for any of this."
"Neither did you. This is a complicated life for you, Emma."
"What's complicated?" she asked, drawing nonsense on his skin.
"Loving both of us." He pulled her in tighter. "Dealing with our sometimes divergent personalities."
She smiled. "I like to think of it as keeping me on my toes." She kissed his pec. "Besides, there are a few ways you guys think the same."
"We both love you," he replied, hand curling around her hip. "It's oddly liberating."
Emma's brow creased curiously. "What was that like? When did you know?"
"I knew before he did," Killian grumbled behind her. He scooted closer, nose in her blonde locks. His feet were cold but Emma didn't complain. "Remember?"
Emma smiled at the memory. "I overheard you. It scared me."
"We're sorry, love," Liam said.
"No, it was a good thing. I'd been running from how I felt, even though I was here. I felt so selfish, wanting you both. It didn't seem fair."
"Fair is a subjective term," Liam said. "I couldn't live with myself if you'd chosen between us, Emma. Not knowing Killian was unhappy."
"This is how we're supposed to be," Killian mumbled, lips finding her skin. "You have such a big heart, Emma. We're honored you chose to share it with us."
"Still," Emma persisted. "It couldn't have been easy, knowing you both love me."
"There may have been a few tense moments," Liam admitted. "But that first night opened our eyes to a new possibility. We'd never shared a lass before."
Killian's lips were warm and soft on her skin. "I couldn't stop thinking about you. The look on your face when we were both inside you..." He shivered. "It was a life changing moment."
"Enough that we knew we had to track you down if we could," Liam added. "You're a difficult woman to forget, Emma."
"If you say so." God knows she'd been entirely forgettable to everyone else in her life.
He tipped her chin up so he could see her eyes. "I mean it, love. There is no one else for us, but you. And we're going to spend the rest of our lives proving it to you."
Emma bit her lip before scooting up to kiss him. He groaned against her lips; he could get lost in her so easily. His tongue skimmed the seam of her lips and she opened, nails scratching down his chest. The kiss deepened, getting hungrier, passion building. Liam tugged her up until she was stretched out on top of him, warmth seeping across their skin. Liam's hands cradled her ass, squeezing the soft globes. Emma mewled into his mouth, her fingers woven into his curls.
"Fuck, Emma," Killian murmured. He watched avidly, cock hardening. He rubbed himself through his boxers, feeling a little guilty for wanting her. She had to be sore from their role play the evening before. They'd been rough with her, even though she reveled in it.
Emma broke the kiss with Liam, giving Killian an impish grin. "Hey sailor."
Liam squeezed more, feeling the heat of her through their clothes. "God, Emma. We shouldn't."
"Shouldn't what?"
"Shouldn't want you. Aren't you sore?"
She shrugged. "Maybe a little. My bath helped a lot. I can take it." She reached out, fingers brushing the front of Killian's boxers. He groaned. "I think we could all use the release."
"Emma..."
She shook her head, sitting up in Liam's lap. She peeled off her shirt, cupping her heavy breasts. She played with the nipples, rolling and pinching them as her boys watched. Wetness pooled between her thighs, soaking her panties. She moaned softly, back arching slightly. "Let me do this for you," she said, rocking in Liam's lap. "Fuck."
Killian surged up and kissed her hard. "We'll be gentle," he swore. "Won't we, brother?"
Liam ran his rough hands up her thighs, thumbs rubbing her mound through the fabric. "Aye, so gentle, love."
"Love you so much," she murmured, finding Liam's hand as she and Killian kissed. "Make love to me."
"Yes." Liam pulled her panties aside, lightly rubbing her clit. He found her wet and it snapped his resolve. If she wanted them, then they wouldn't deny her. Emma mewled, rocking into his touch. Killian made a whine of complaint; by mutual consent, they laid Emma out in the center of the bed, stripping her panties off. Liam gently spread her legs, licking the length of her. She keened, blindly reaching for Killian. He kissed her, pushing his boxers off at the same time. He kicked them away and moved to straddle her. Emma wet her lips as he played with her breasts, massaging them, his heavy engorged cock between them. He was effectively holding her down as Liam continued to lap at her entrance, drinking her copious arousal.
"Love all the ways you let us have you," Killian muttered, rutting his hips against her. His cock slid between her breasts; it felt amazing.
Emma fisted the sheets, crying out as Liam's tongue plunged in and out of her. "I just...fuck...need," she bit out, getting wetter as Killian touched her that way.
"Does this hurt?" Liam asked, sliding two fingers into her heat.
She was too aroused to register any discomfort. "Fuck no. More."
"Want you to ride me," Liam said, licking her clit. "Can you do that?"
"Yes!" Killian groaned, climbing off her. He moved so Emma could roll on top of Liam, grinding her slippery flesh over his cock. She reached down and guided him to her entrance, a moan tearing from her throat as she sank down. "Oh yes."
Killian stroked his cock, watching Emma. She moved sinuously, rising and falling, blonde hair damp with sweat. Her breasts bounced; she bent back over Liam's legs, hands braced on his thighs. "So fucking hot," Killian muttered, pulling harder on his cock.
"So beautiful," Liam added, thumb finding her clit. Her stomach trembled, her orgasm slowly building. Killian snarled and pounced, mouth latching onto a bouncing nipple. Emma keened, her clit throbbing in response.
"Oh my god," she panted. "Don't stop."
"Never."
"Squeeze me, darling," Liam pleaded, watching his cock disappear inside her body. "Need you to squeeze me."
Emma nodded frantically, blindly finding his hand and pressing it harder to her clit. She moved faster, squeezing her inner muscles as she rode him. Killian pinched her nipples, commanding her to come. Her climax unfurled slowly, crashing into her in waves. Liam grunted, hips rising from the bed, seeking his own high. He yelled her name when he fell, emptying himself inside her pulsing heat.
Emma panted, skin tingling. Killian lifted her off, stretching her out on the bed. She lay on her stomach as Killian placed a pillow under her hips. Rather than touch her abused flesh, Killian spread her cheeks, mouth on her puckered hole. Emma whimpered, relaxing into his touch.
"Such a sweet arse," Killian muttered, biting on one of her cheeks. "You like taking it here, don't you, lass?"
"Yes," she breathed, "please."
"Just relax." He kissed her before digging a tube of lube from the nightstand. He took his time opening her up; Emma felt Liam's soothing touch on her back, massaging her muscles. She moaned softly, helpless against their loving touch. First one digit, then two, slipped into her ass, fucking her gently. She bit her lip; it felt good. "Ready for me, love?"
"Ugh, yes," she breathed, rising up on her elbows. "Fuck me, Killian."
"Bloody hell." He coated his thick cock with lube and pressed the tip to her hole. He pushed in slowly, mindful of how hard her body had been run in the last twenty four hours. He let out a low satisfying grunt; she was tight, feeling so good around him. He thrust a little, taking her with short easy thrusts, getting her used to him. Emma pushed back, eager for more.
"Fuck, feels so good," Emma bit out. "Yes."
"You're perfect," Liam murmured, brushing her hair away from her sweaty face. "So bloody perfect."
Killian was shaking, trying to hold his need in check. He didn't want to hurt her. "Emma...fuck, lass."
She snaked a hand under her, finding her clit. "Please, Killian. Come with me."
"Fuck." He couldn't resist her pleading, feeling the way her body tightened. She trembled under him on the verge of another orgasm. He grabbed her hips and held her steady, taking her harder. "So close."
Emma cried out, his cock finding the perfect spot inside her. She screamed, a second more powerful orgasm rocking her. Killian followed almost instantly, her spasming body milking him dry. He bent down, pressing a loving kiss to her sweaty back. "Love you."
Emma hummed incoherently, utterly spent. She whimpered when Killian slipped out of her; she fell to the bed, her body feeling pleasantly boneless. Liam headed for the bathroom, running a bath for her. When the tub was full, he came back and picked her up, carrying her to the tub. "Here you go, sweetheart," he said, both awed by her and feeling guilty for using her body so.
Her head lolled. "Stay with me?"
"As you wish." He climbed in too, holding her against his chest.
Killian came in a few minutes later. "Room for one more?"
Emma opened her eyes, nodding. "Might be a tight fit, but please."
"We'll make due." The tub was fairly large, tucked into the corner of the bathroom. As soon as he was settled, he began rubbing her feet. Emma smiled lazily at him, feeling utterly content.
"That's nice."
"Anything for you, lass."
Liam kissed her temple. "I think you should take it easy for a few days, Emma," he said seriously.
"I'm really okay."
"You're the strongest person I know," he said. "But even you have your limits."
"You worry too much."
"He's right, love," Killian added. "You need to rest."
Emma nodded. She was tired. But she would do her best to be there for them anyway. She would start by finding out everything she could Ioan Jones.
"Detective Inspector Wyvern."
"Hi, Lily. It's Emma."
"Hello, Emma. How are things?"
Emma fought not to roll her eyes. Lily almost never outright asked about Emma's relationship; Emma knew she disapproved, even if she never came out and said it. Still, as long as they didn't discuss Emma's personal life, they got on well enough. And Lily was Emma's best contact at Scotland Yard. If anyone could help her get the scoop on Ioan Jones it was her.
"Okay. Leaving for France in a little over a week."
"That's great. You deserve a vacation."
"Yeah, I guess you could say that. Listen, Lily, I know it's short notice, but I have a favor to ask."
"What's up?"
"Well, the other day...Liam and Killian's dad showed up. Just out of the blue. At our door."
"I take it he wasn't expected?"
"Considering he left them twenty five years ago that's a big no."
"Oh." Emma heard some keys tapping. "Okay. I'll see what I can find. But I'd hardly think you need me. Isn't finding people what you do?"
"I've been trying. I've found some things from before he left, date of birth, marriage, the boys' birth certificates. His shaky employment history. But nothing on why he left in the first place. I know they have to have wondered." Emma would forever wonder why her parents left her. If she could answer those questions for her boys then she would do her very best.
"I'll do my best. Guy down in records owes me a favor. I'll call you if I find something."
"Thanks, Lily. I'll owe you big time."
Emma gave Lily what info she had before hanging up. She went through her file again. What little she'd uncovered didn't make her feel better. Ioan left his wife Catherine and their two sons in 1990 after ten years of marriage. Killian had been five, Liam nine. Far too young to lose their father. What made her blood boil wasn't that Ioan was gone. Parents unfortunately died every day. This bastard just left. Emma didn't know the circumstances; she'd never worked up the courage to ask. Any mention of their father sent Killian into a brooding angry state while Liam tended to clam up. She'd only seen one picture of the man, in an old scrapbook. Emma had that scrapbook open in front of her, staring at the picture.
Liam had his father's curly hair. And his height and build. Both Jones boys inherited Catherine's eyes and coloring. The combination was devastatingly handsome, as Emma could attest. They were cute in the picture; Liam was eight years old, so it was a year before Ioan disappeared. Ioan was thirty when he walked out, the same age Killian was now. The only sign of trouble she could find was in Ioan's employment history, which admittedly wasn't good. He'd held a series of jobs and none of them for very long. It was a wonder he provided for his family as well as he did. Unless...he didn't. Could money troubles be why the scumbag abandoned his family?
Sadly, she had no way of confirming her suspicions, which was why she finally swallowed her pride and called Lily. Lily's level of access would uncover far more than Emma's.
Emma frowned and slammed the file shut. She slipped it into a drawer and locked it. She told the boys what she was doing but received a noncommittal response. She was worried about them. Killian was acting as if nothing had changed, apparently determined to go back to a world where Ioan didn't exist. Liam was the opposite; after that first day, he disappeared for hours at a time after kissing her goodbye and assuring them he'd be home for dinner. When he did return home, he wouldn't talk about where he'd been, just offering a vague mention of walking. They were talking about anything beside Ioan and Emma didn't like it.
She wasn't exactly the poster child for open communication, but they were doing so well. She didn't want this to come between them, especially when they were about to embark on the next phase of their life as a married trio.
She moved to the living room, curling up in her favorite chair, intending to study some French phrases. She got out her iPad and her earbuds, starting up the language app. She became so absorbed in it that she missed the door opening. Lips on the crown of her head made her jump a mile.
"Jesus Christ!" she cried, tearing the buds out of her ears. "What the hell?"
"'M sorry, love," Killian said, looking genuinely apologetic. "I thought you heard me."
Her heart began to slow, realizing that Killian hadn't meant to scare the bejeezus out of her. "It's okay. I was distracted."
"Distracted by what?" he asked, waggling his brows suggestively.
She swatted his forearm. "I'm trying to learn some French, you perv."
"Says the woman who once sent us an erotic video of her riding a dildo."
Emma flushed. "It seemed like a good idea at the time."
"Oh, it was a very good idea." He cupped her chin. "And I wouldn't say no to a repeat performance."
Emma stood, resting her hands on his sweaty shirt; he'd been out running and smelled fantastic. "Perhaps if you're very good. We need to bring the camera on our honeymoon."
His hands came around her waist. "Indeed. We haven't made nearly enough porn with our lovely bride."
She laughed. "You and the porn."
"Admit it, darling. You love it." He leaned in and gently bit her earlobe. "It makes you wet, I know it does."
She squirmed a little in his arms. "Stop it."
"Not until you say it."
"Bastard." She surged forward and kissed him hard on the mouth. "I want us to make lots and lots of porn on our honeymoon. Happy now?"
"Why is that?" he asked with a smirk.
"Because it makes me wet. And because it makes both of you crazy for me."
"You get that all the time, my love." He closed the gap, kissing her again, slow and languid. "Hmm, I should go shower."
She grinned. "I don't know; I kinda like you all sweaty."
He growled low in his throat. "Don't tempt me, lass." He kissed her one last time before breaking away to go shower. She watched him leave, wishing they didn't have this pall hanging over them. She knew Killian didn't want to face it but until they did, it would be the proverbial elephant in the room.
She went back to her French language tutorial; there wasn't anything she could do until Liam came home. They needed to talk about Ioan, decide what to do, before the wedding. If the boys truly wanted nothing to do with him (and Emma could hardly blame them, if that were the case), then they could put this behind them and move forward.
Killian returned from his shower, dark hair wet and tousled. Emma rolled her eyes at his mischievous smirk, content to continue her tutorial while he watched TV. That was how Liam found them late that afternoon, each in their own world. He was loathe to burst their happy bubble but he'd kept his comings and goings a secret long enough.
"Hey Liam," Emma said, plucking out her earbuds. She stood and went to kiss him. She could feel his tension the moment her lips touched his. "What's the matter?"
"There's something we need to talk about. As a family."
"Like where's you've been the last few days?"
"Aye."
Killian turned, frowning. "Liam, tell me you didn't."
"Killian..."
Killian's face hardened. "Really? Bloody hell, Liam! Why would you even give that wanker the time of day?"
Emma stepped back, stunned. "You saw your dad? Why?"
"I wanted to hear him out."
Killian jumped to his feet. "That bastard abandoned us, brother. He forfeited any right to be in our lives. We owe him nothing."
"It's not that simple."
"Like hell it's not!"
Emma stood between them, her hands on each of their chests. "Let's settle down. Maybe sit? I'm sure Liam has a good reason for keeping this a secret." She glared at him and he ducked his head.
"I wanted to talk to you, love. Both of you. I'm sorry."
"Apologize later. Right now, we're going to sit and talk." She marched into the study and got her file; now was as good a time as any to discuss it. When she returned, the Jones brothers were sitting at opposite ends of the couch glaring at each other. Emma frowned but soldiered on, sitting between them.
"Why couldn't you just let it go?" Killian said angrily. "We're happy...finally."
"Do you want to know what happened?" Liam asked. "Why he left?"
"What does it matter?" Killian cried. "His family clearly doesn't mean anything to him. If it did, he wouldn't have left!"
"But what if he left to protect us?"
"Bollocks."
"Killian, you haven't seen him. You weren't awake that night...the night he left. I was. He asked me to look after you and Mum."
"Liam, you were nine years old! No father in his right mind should saddle a child with that!" Killian jumped up, pacing. "Don't let him sucker you in, brother."
"Do you think so little of me?" Liam snapped. "Why does it bother you so much? I was just trying to get some answers!"
"I don't bloody well want answers!" Killian's face was beet red, furious, but his eyes were filled with tears. He sank to his knees and buried his face in his hands, shoulders heaving with sobs. Emma was up in a flash, holding him as he cried. She suspected he'd been holding back his hurt and pain...and that he wanted answers. Very, very much.
She rubbed his back, sharing a stricken look with Liam. He came over, but didn't get too close, afraid his presence would upset Killian again. He knew their father's abandonment was a painful topic, but not even he had fathomed the depth of his brother's pain.
Emma's dress was wet but she didn't care. Killian buried his face in her neck, clinging to her as she held him. He wanted to stay angry, but all he could see was his mother's face as she lay dying, pleading with him to forgive and find happiness. Emma brushed her lips over the crown of his head; he sniffed, respiration slowly returning to normal. "'M sorry, love."
"Hush. It's okay. I never liked this dress anyway."
That earned her a slight chuckle. "I think it's rather fetching."
"You would." She smiled as he raised his head, thumbs brushing away his tears. "Feel better?"
"A little." He turned to kiss her palm. "Thank you."
She swallowed. "Liam's here. Is that okay?"
Killian nodded. "Aye." He took a steadying breath and wiped at his face. "I'm sorry, Liam," he apologized as he turned. "I didn't mean to shout."
Liam held him by the shoulder. "I understand, Killian. We should have talked about this first. This was my fault. Forgive me?"
"Of course." Emma smiled to herself as they hugged; the fraternal love they had for each other was one of the reasons she loved them so much. When they beckoned her, she came, slipping between them for a nice long hug.
"We still need to talk," she said softly.
"Aye," they agreed. Everyone returned to the couch, where Emma picked up her file.
"This is everything I've found out," she said, opening the file. The boys bent over her shoulder to examine the contents. "I think Liam may be on to something about leaving to protect you, but I still have a weird feeling. I don't think he's on the level, you know?"
"The timing is convenient," Killian said with a trace of bitterness. "Just as we're ready to get married? It's suspicious to say the least."
"Do you think he knows?"
"He asked about your ring," Liam informed them. "He asked a lot of questions about us actually."
"I don't like it," Killian said. "He has no right to tell us how to live."
"I agree," Liam said. "But even if he has an agenda, doesn't it behoove us to discover what it is?"
"We can't trust him."
Liam frowned, clearly conflicted. Emma cupped his face. "You want to trust him, don't you?"
He nodded. "He claims to have changed. I don't know if I believe him, but...you're right. I do want to. I know it doesn't make sense..."
"He's your father," she said gently. "You're still allowed to love him, even when he hurt you."
"It's been twenty five years," Killian argued. "Why now? If he did leave to protect us, why continue to stay away? It doesn't make sense."
"I don't know," Liam said at last. "He wants to talk to both of us."
"But not Emma?" Killian scoffed. "No way."
"Killian..."
"No, Emma," he said firmly. "You are a member of this family. He talks to all of us or no one."
"That's harsh, brother."
Killian fixed Liam with a stare. "You weren't there, Liam. When Mum passed. His own wife dying and he never came. She wouldn't divorce him, did you know that? Right until the end she believed he'd come back. She struggled and scraped, raising us, waiting for a husband who never came home. She wanted me to forgive him," he finished bitterly. He loved his mother deeply, but he couldn't understand her devotion to man who no longer cared about her or her sons.
Liam sucked in a breath, taken aback by his brother's confession. "Why didn't you say anything?"
"There was enough grief," he replied. "I didn't want you to look for him."
"He didn't even come to the funeral," Liam said, a tear slipping down his cheek. Emma took his hand in hers, squeezing it, offering what comfort she could.
"Because he doesn't care about us," Killian said firmly. "I don't know what tales he's been spinning for you, brother, but he's back for a reason and it's not what's best for us. Certainly not for this family."
Deep down Emma suspected Killian was right. But if Ioan did have an agenda, they needed to find out what it was. "I think we should meet him."
"Emma, you can't be serious."
"I'm not saying you have to forgive him. We should be suspicious. But that's exactly why we need to meet him. Find out what he knows."
"I don't think he approves of you, love," Liam said quietly.
"All the more reason for us to go as a family. Show he can't intimidate us. He left you; he's the one who should be crawling on hands and knees to be a part of your life."
"I won't let him disrespect you," Killian growled.
She kissed his scruffy cheek. "I appreciate the chivalry but I can handle myself."
"Too right." He cupped her face and kissed her thoroughly. She shivered. "I'll do it, but only because you asked."
She traced his lips with her thumb. "Thank you."
Liam made a faint noise of complaint but Emma put a finger to his lips. "You, Captain, broke the rules, you know."
"I did?"
"You kept a secret from us. One that directly affects us. What do you have to say for yourself?"
Killian laughed. "Oh, you did it now, brother. This should be good."
"Watch it, Killian. Unless you want the Mistress to come out to play."
His blue eyes darkened. "Is that a promise, love?"
She ignored him and turned back to Liam. "Well? Answer the question, Liam." She infused her voice with a bit of the Mistress, to show she meant business. Liam was the one who insisted on the no secrets rule in the first place.
Liam swallowed. "I knew Killian would say no," he replied, looking truly apologetic. "But I had to know."
"Was it worth shutting out your family?"
Liam shook his head. "No."
"Do you think you should be punished for keeping secrets?"
"If you see fit, love."
Emma leaned in and kissed him. "Go upstairs and strip. We'll join you shortly." Liam nodded and left. She turned back to Killian. "Are you okay with this?" she asked, climbing into his lap.
Killian nuzzled her neck, hands sliding up under her shirt. "You know I love my Mistress, Emma."
"Not that," she clarified. "With seeing your dad?"
"I don't know," he said honestly. "I think a little extra love from my lovely bride could help."
"I think she can handle that." She kissed him deeply, sighing as he crushed her to his chest. "Wanna show Liam how it's done?"
"With pleasure."
"I'm gonna enjoy spanking you."
"Aye, it's been far too long." They hadn't been able to indulge while he was recovering from a broken leg.
"Let's hope I haven't packed my paddle," she teased.
"Bloody minx."
Emma laughed, standing up. "Go. Choose the things you want me to use. I'll be there soon." He nodded and stood, heading toward the stairs. Emma left her phone downstairs; she didn't want them to be interrupted. She locked the front door and made sure the curtains were shut. A shiver of yearning rolled down her spine; she hadn't meant for this to become a sex thing, but who was she to argue. It was the way they communicated best. And Liam had expressed a desire to give up control. This thing with their dad illuminated why he was so buttoned up emotionally; perhaps this was good for him. For all of them.
Wetting her lips, Emma climbed the stairs, heading down the hall to their bedroom. Obediently, Killian had laid out a series of toys and accessories for her to use...including her strap on. Of course, her Killian would want to jump back in with both feet. She was wet just thinking about it. Liam sat on the bed, naked, waiting for her obediently. She walked over to him, rewarding him with a kiss. He reached up to hold her, but she pushed his arms down.
"Aha, you're being punished," she chided. "Kneel by the headboard and wait for me."
"Aye."
"Yes what?" she snapped.
"Aye, Mistress."
She smiled at him. "Very good." She walked around the bed to where Killian waited for her. He had a little smirk on his face; Emma would enjoy removing it. "Just what are you smiling about?" she demanded.
"Nothing, Mistress."
She looked at him sternly, a finger pressed to his chest. "Are you lying to me?"
"No, Mistress."
"I think you are. You're being very naughty, Killian. Not setting a good example at all."
"Apologies, Mistress."
"I don't think you're sorry. I think you're trying to provoke me. You want to be punished, don't you?"
He sobered, shivering under her gaze. "Aye, Mistress."
She looked him up and down, taking in the half open flannel and slightly tented jeans. He was really into this, eagerly accepted her domination. "Strip. Slowly. I want watch you. Maybe then I'll consider giving you what you want."
Emma moved to one of the armchairs, throwing one leg over the arm, giving them a view of her panties. She could see Liam kneeling, hands balled up into fists and resting on his thighs. He was watching her with narrowed eyes, his cock was already half hard. She smirked at him, pulling the material of her skirt up, exposing more of her skin. Her gaze flickered back to Killian; he was slowly unbuttoning his shirt. Emma cupped one of her breasts, lightly kneading as more of Killian's toned skin was exposed. He moved sinuously to a beat no one could hear. He sighed as he lowered his zipper, the pressure easing on his now painfully erect cock.
Liam gasped, watching as Emma touched herself, one hand sliding into her panties. She bit her lip, fingering her clit, gathering wetness leaking from her entrance. Jeans fell to the floor; Killian kicked them away theatrically. He rubbed himself through his boxers before peeling them down too, leaving him gloriously nude. Emma moaned at the sight; he was beautiful, all lean strength and dark hair. "Come here. On your knees."
Killian dropped to the floor and crawled to her on his hands and knees, stopping in front of her. He eyed her clothed cunt hungrily. Emma pulled her hand out and yanked hard on his hair. "Eyes up here, Killian."
He turned his gaze to hers, a mixture of lust and submissiveness. He wanted to heed her, but he also yearned to be punished. "Yes, Mistress."
"Take my panties off then eat me until I come. Do not touch yourself."
Killian nodded, reaching up to hook his thumbs into the waistband of her underwear. Emma raised her hips long enough to slide them off; he tossed them over his shoulder. Emma parted her thighs, watching as his mouth descended. He licked a stripe through her pink folds, teased her clit with his tongue. Emma moaned, rolling her hips, eager for more. Her fingers tangled in his hair as he worked her, eating her enthusiastically. She looked to Liam on the bed; he was rock hard now, his face pained with arousal.
"See what happens when you're naughty?" she said to him, keening. "You don't get to pleasure me."
Liam let out a strangled grunt; he was insanely turned on but frustrated beyond measure. He hadn't thought giving Emma control would be this difficult. "Fuck."
"Only if you're good," she snapped. "You're only here to get me off, is that clear?"
Liam nodded. "Yes, Mistress."
Killian groaned against her slippery flesh; Emma gasped. She pulled just a touch harder on his hair, bucking her hips against his face. "Faster, you." Her order melted into a loud moan, Killian's tongue fucking her hole. He licked up to her clit and sucked the nub into his mouth, hard. She screamed out her climax, flagrantly riding Killian's face, his scruff burning the inside of her thighs. When she came down, Killian leaned back on his haunches, lips and chin coated in her juices. She surged forward and kissed him passionately, tasting herself, arousing her all over again. "Good boy."
"Mistress," Liam whispered, rocking back and forth a little. If she didn't touch him soon, he might explode.
Emma looked up, he looked wrecked and she hadn't touched him yet. To Killian she said, "Go bend over the bed. Put that ass in the air for me."
"Aye, Mistress." Killian was gone in a blink while Emma sauntered over to where Liam waited. She stripped off her dress and bra; she didn't want to be encumbered by any more clothes. When she reached him, she took his straining cock in her hand, giving him a little relief.
"Do you understand why I'm punishing you?"
"Yes, Mistress."
"Tell me."
He sucked in a breath. Her touching him was almost worse; she was warm and soft and he just wanted to rut into her hand. "Because I kept a secret."
"Why did you do that? Be honest."
"I was afraid."
"Was that so hard?" She pulled on his cock one last time before she reached for the rope and a blindfold. "I'm going to tie you to the bed and blindfold you." This was his first time really participating; she would go easy on him. She couldn't wait to show him how pleasurable submission was, but she could be patient. She had Killian to play with. "If you're a good boy, I'll let you fuck me. Can you be a good boy, Liam?"
"Aye, Mistress."
"Good." She tied his wrists behind his back, then tied him to the headboard. It was just tight enough to make his back bow. Emma licked at his nipples, scraping her teeth over the hard buds. Liam groaned, his cock throbbing. She released him and tied the blindfold around his eyes. "Too tight?"
"It's fine." She smiled, giving his cock a fond stroke before turning her attention to Killian. She walked around the bed, picking up a scarf and tying his wrists together. Then she plucked her paddle from the mattress. She ran it over his backside; he shivered.
"I've always loved this ass," she purred, giving him a squeeze. "So tight and firm." She swatted one of the cheeks; Killian jumped and moaned. Emma kissed the pink skin, soothing the sting. "Count them, Killian."
"Aye, Mistress." Another swat to the other cheek; Killian hissed, fisting the sheet. "One."
Emma soothed him between smacks, five to each cheek, leaving the skin flushed and pink. Her own arousal made her thighs sticky and slippery; she slid her fingers through her sopping flesh and held out the wet fingers for Killian to lick. He did without being bid, moaning at her taste. "I'm so wet," she whispered in his ear. "You know what would make me wetter?"
"What, Mistress?"
"Fucking this tight ass. You want that, don't you, naughty boy?"
"God yes."
Emma groaned, reaching for the lube. She knelt down and spread his stinging cheeks, licking his puckered hole. She worked him, fingers sliding between his legs, brushing the spot that made him jerk and moan. She fondled his balls and she squeezed out some lube, taking her time, massaging the tight ring of muscle. Killian fought to keep still but it felt so good. He loved when Emma played with his ass; it was so fucking hot. He groaned when first one finger then a second pushed inside, fucking him slowly. It had been a while since they'd played like this, but she knew how to touch him. She rubbed the sensitive spot inside him; he couldn't stop the loud moan that tumbled from his lips.
"You like that?"
Killian moaned, shoving his hips back. "Yes, Mistress. So much."
She abruptly pulled her hand away; Killian hissed in complaint. "Roll over. Now." He did as she bid, confused, while she snatched for a cock ring and her strap on. "Hands above your head." Killian obeyed her, his head raised slightly so he could see her. She took the cock ring and stretched it over him, rolling it down his shaft. He grunted low as he swelled even more; it felt like he would burst. He wet his lips as Emma slipped into the strap on, hooking it in place. Emma took the tip of the dildo and rubbed the sensitive spot between his legs; he bucked and moaned. She smiled lecherously at him and reached for the lube once more. She spread it liberally, knowing he was watching her. "Ready to be fucked?"
"Yes, Mistress!"
Emma lined the dildo up with his slightly widened hole and gently pushed forward. Killian groaned, long and loud, relishing the stretch. It felt a little different than he remembered, the angle new and exciting. Emma kept her thrusts shallow, letting him get used to it again. Killian whimpered; Emma pushed deeper. "Good?"
"So good, Mistress," he panted. "Don't stop."
Emma rocked into him, her fingers flitting over his engorged cock. She started to stoke him in time with her thrusts, the little fingers inside rubbing deliciously against her clit. He was gorgeous spread out int front of her, face awash in pleasure as she fucked him. "Want to see you come," she said, wetting her lips. "Want to see it coat your skin, fuck."
"More," he pleaded. "More, Mistress, please."
Emma moved faster, adjusting her hips to find the perfect spot. She knew she found it when he jerked and cried out; her hand pumped him, hips fucking him until he was quivering, whimpering...he exploded, his orgasm ripping through him, thick spurts of his seed lashing over his stomach and chest. It just kept coming and coming and coming; Emma rode him until he was utterly spent.
She slipped out of him as gently as she could; he groaned tiredly. She quickly unstrapped the dildo, letting it fall to the floor. She climbed up on the bed and kissed his lips. "You were so good, Killian. I'm so proud of you." He mumbled something, but she didn't need him to speak. She rolled the cock ring off, laying it aside to be cleaned. Then she licked his skin, cleaning him up with her mouth. Her clit throbbed painfully, she allowed herself a few strokes to ease it. What she needed was a cock.
Emma grabbed another toy and crawled to where Liam was still waiting. He'd struggled a little; his wrists were red. Emma surprised him by kissing him breathless; he growled against her lips. "How is my good boy?" she asked, flicking on the vibrator. She pressed the little bullet to his cock, rolling it over his length. Liam hissed and jerked, a cry tearing from his throat.
"Fuck!"
Emma chuckled. "Do you enjoy yourself? Listening to us fuck? I know how much you love that, Liam."
"Emma...Mistress...please," he bit out, trying to roll his hips into the vibrator. He was so hard it hurt; he needed to come desperately.
"Please what?"
"Please fuck me," he panted, his voice breaking with need. "I need it."
"So do I," she said into his ear. She bit down on his earlobe. "I'm so fucking wet and I'm going to ride you until you can't see straight."
"Bloody hell," he hissed. He strained against the ropes, wishing he could touch her. He whined in complaint when she took the vibrator away. She adjusted his binds so he could lay flat, then she climbed up. She hadn't removed his blindfold so he couldn't see her. But he could feel her. He could tell from the angle she was going ride him in reverse and it made his cock throb. Then she was there, all wetness and heat and her tight body taking him in and it was heaven. Emma groaned, thankful to be filled at last, Liam's cock fitting her perfectly. She started slow, just gently rolling her hips. They both moaned and Emma threw her head back.
Liam gripped the rung of the headboard in his bound fists; he was so bloody close already, but he couldn't come yet. He didn't want to let go of this feeling, being bound, his body being used for Emma's pleasure. He discovered long ago there wasn't anything he wouldn't do to make her happy. Like this he didn't need to be in control; he just got to feel her, to soak in the intoxicating sensations.
It was a revelation.
Emma gradually increased her pace, her body tightening, coiling for release. "Fuck, so good, Liam. Such a good boy. Yes."
Killian came around, laying on his side, watching them. His hands were still bound but he made no effort to untie himself. He just wanted to watch his Mistress take her pleasure. She was radiant, a bead of sweat rolling down her chest as she moved. Emma wet her lips, moving faster, harder, needing to fall over the edge. She caught Killian watching her. She spread her knees wider. "Fuck, get over here," she commanded. She parted her folds, exposing her clit. "Lick me, Killian. Put your dirty mouth on me while I'm fucking your brother."
Killian hastened to obey, even though he was exhausted. He bent over and did as she bid, licking and sucking on her swollen nub as she rose and fell. Emma keened, her inner muscles starting to flutter. Liam cried out, hips thrusting up off the bed. After that, it was a race to see which of them would come first; Emma won, barely. She gripped Killian's hair as she climaxed, a throaty cry filling the room. Liam was right behind her, unable to hold off any longer. He came so hard he saw stars, wave after wave of his orgasm rocking him to his core.
As Emma collapsed in exhaustion, he swore he never loved her more.
Emma waited until her heart returned to some sort of normal rhythm before getting up. She was blissfully sated but she needed to clean up. She untied Liam first and removed his blindfold, sweetly kissing his chafed wrists. Then she untied Killian, tossing the rope and scarf into their box. She got him cleaned up, using a warm cloth to remove the excess lube from his skin. When she was finished, she coaxed him into bed. After cleaning their used toys and replacing them in the box, she cleaned herself up. Still nude, she climbed into bed, where her boys were waiting for her. She kissed them both on the lips. "How do you feel?"
"Bloody fantastic," Killian said, giving her a slow grin. "Thank you, my love."
She smiled back, squeezing his hand. "Liam?" she asked, a bit nervous.
He stroked the apple of her cheek. "Never better, sweetheart."
"You're sure?"
He nodded. "Aye, it was quite an eye opening experience."
"You don't know the half of it, brother," Killian assured him. "She's magnificent."
"Aye, well, I've got time to learn." He looked at Emma. "Am I forgiven?"
"Killian?" He nodded to her. "Okay. We forgive you." She placed her hand on his chest, over his heart. "I know you want to take care of us and you're used to doing things by yourself but you don't have to anymore. We're all in this together, okay?"
Liam nodded. "I am sorry."
"What were you afraid of?" Emma asked gently. "Earlier...you said you were afraid."
Liam let out a heavy breath. "I...didn't know how I would react. To seeing him again. I didn't want you to see me that way, either of you."
Emma hugged him close. "We're your family, Liam. There isn't anything you could do to make us stop loving you."
"You don't have to be so bleeding stoic," Killian added. "Honestly, it's a might irritating sometimes."
Liam chuckled into Emma's shoulder. "Consider it a flaw in my character."
"Aye, well, I can be hot headed to a fault but you still put up with me."
"And I can be closed off and judgmental. We all have problems," Emma said, rolling on her back. "What's important is that we work on them together."
Killian kissed the ring that lay on her finger. "For however long it takes."
"Exactly. I don't want this looming over our future. I still want to marry you. If you want me."
Liam laughed dryly. "Didn't we just prove that we're in this for the long haul, darling?"
"Because we fell into bed again?"
"Nothing wrong with a healthy adventurous sex life, Emma."
Killian nuzzled her shoulder, sighing in contentment. "I like to think we're forever kind of blokes."
Emma hummed happily. "Yeah, but it took me a while to believe that. But I do now," she said swiftly, as Killian moved to tickle her. She screeched as Liam joined in; she was overcome by giggles. "Stop! Stop!" It took a few agonizing seconds but they did. She tried to be mad but failed utterly. "That was mean."
"Fun," Killian corrected.
"Yeah for you," Emma groused. She rolled onto her stomach. "My point is it took time for that scar to heal. I absolutely think your father is up to something, but I also think talking to him is the only way to put him behind us. If you ultimately decide not to have him in our lives, that is."
"Why the bloody hell would we want that?" Killian scowled.
Emma pressed his palm to her lips. "He didn't just stop being your dad. I've never stopped wondering about my birth parents." She sighed. "I mean, I don't know how I'd react to something like this. But I am glad that I'd have you two here to help me through it."
Liam kissed her shoulder blade. "Have you ever thought about it? Looking for your parents?"
She nodded. "Lots of times. One of the reasons I do what I do." She paused, biting her lip. "I've tried a few times, but I always chicken out."
"Afraid of what you'll find?" Killian asked gently.
She nodded, knowing he understood. "Yeah."
He pulled her into a hug. "I'm scared too, Emma."
Liam wanted to protect both of them so much. What if Killian was right? What if his father wasn't a good man? What if he had some scheme that they didn't know about? Could he expose the people he loved most to that kind of pain? But he knew Emma was right. They needed answers, even if they were painful. It was the best way for their family to move forward.
He pressed a kiss to her shoulder and climbed out of bed. He ducked into the hall to order them some Chinese. He looked at his contacts, at the number his father had given him. The man sounded so convincing, but Liam just couldn't tell how much of that was his own wishful thinking. Killian's confession about their mother shook him; his younger brother had always been closer to Catherine, even though Liam knew she loved him very much. When she passed, Liam had been thrust into the role of sole caretaker, which was made even more difficult by being at the Academy. He supposed he should be resentful for that, but he wasn't. Most of the time. He loved Killian fiercely, gladly took on the role of surrogate father.
It was a mindset he was only now beginning to shed now that they had Emma in their lives. Once he accepted that she could love them both, being with her was easy.
Killian was right about something else. If Ioan couldn't accept Emma, then Liam wanted nothing to do with him.
"Dinner should be here in fifteen," he said quietly, pulling his boxers back on.
Emma smiled at him. "You're the best."
"It's your turn to clean up," he reminded her.
She laughed. "Yeah, yeah." She grabbed his hand and pulled him down to her. "Maybe I'll do it just like this."
Both men groaned. "Bloody minx."
"You love me."
"Aye, we do."
Killian ran his hand through his hair. "Do you think we could have another look at that file, love? If we're gonna do this, then I want to be prepared."
"Sure. Oh, I called Lily too. See if she can find some things I can't."
"Can she run phone records?" Liam asked.
Emma frowned. "I can do that. Do you have a number for him?"
Liam nodded. "I'm supposed to call him when Killian's agreed to meet."
"Okay. I need my laptop."
"I'll get it," Killian said, climbing from the bed. Emma followed, getting an over sized Royal Navy shirt from the dresser. If she was going to be researching, then she couldn't be naked. The moment Killian returned, Liam started to fill them in on everything his father had told him, only now with a more cynical eye.
Killian flipped through the file, a mixture of curiosity and annoyance on his face. He was certain that Ioan being back in their lives as a bad thing. They'd been blown up in a sodding terrorist attack and he hadn't bothered to contact them. For twenty five years, the man apparently pretended that he didn't even have sons and now that they were about to commit to a woman he turns up? Claiming to have changed? To want a relationship? It didn't surprise him that the wanker disapproved of Emma either. Ioan Jones couldn't understand what real love even was.
"Do you guys remember anything?" Emma asked gently, punching the number Liam gave her into her hacking software. She needed to call her guy in New York to see if he had an update; it was running a little slow for her taste. "Around the time he left? Were your parents fighting or anything?"
"Liam would know better than me, love," Killian replied, looking at his own birth certificate. "I was only a wee lad."
"But you were cute," she teased, kissing his cheek.
"Oi!"
"What? I can't think my fiancés were adorable kids?"
"Emma..."
She touched his arm. "Hey, I'm only teasing." Then she paused. "Be right back." She climbed over Liam and dashed down the hall to her room. She dug in her mostly empty suitcase and grabbed an old cigar box. It was filled with her most treasured possessions, aside from her baby blanket. She cradled it to her chest and brought it back to the bedroom. "Here," she said, holding out the box.
"Emma," Liam said slowly. "Are you sure?"
"I want you to see it. It occurred to me that you guys have never seen a picture of little Emma."
Liam handed the box to Killian and pulled her in for a kiss. "Thank you for sharing this, lass."
She got back into the bed, laying her laptop aside as it continued to search the phone records. "It's no big deal."
Killian shook his head, kissing her temple. He knew it was a very big deal, no matter what she said. Once again, he was in awe of her bravery and trust. They put their heads together as they sifted through the box's contents. There were some trinkets, an old pair of glasses. Killian winked at her as he held them; those he was familiar with. Liam picked out a picture of a teenage Emma, her arms around an slightly older man.
Emma swallowed, eyes fixed on Liam's face. His jaw clenched as the identity of the man became clear. "Neal, I presume?"
She nodded. "Yeah." Killian snatched the picture away, a growl in his throat. "I kept it so I wouldn't forget."
"Forget what?"
"Not to trust anyone. Didn't work out so well for me, huh?"
Liam wrapped his arm around her. "I'd think it was quite the opposite, sweetheart. Unless you're unhappy?"
"No, never." She laid her head on his shoulder as Killian laid the photo aside. He found another of her; she was about seven, long hair a bit stringy, clothes at least two sizes too big. She had a slightly hollow look, like she wasn't eating enough. Even then he could see the fire in her green eyes.
"Emma." Killian's heart broke for the little girl in the photo, unable to understand why no one would want her. And that lonely little girl had grown into the woman before him, the woman he loved beyond all reason. She offered him a small smile; it hit him like a punch in the gut. There was nothing he wouldn't do for her.
Emma went when he beckoned, letting him hold her while Liam examined the picture. He laid it alongside the one of he and Killian as children. "Do you mind if we keep these together?" he asked.
She shook her head. "How about this?" she said, getting up. She found a frame amongst the clutter and put the two photos in it, side by side. They weren't quite the same size but that didn't matter. She set it on top of the dresser next to another picture of them in Brighton.
"I think that's perfect."
Emma blushed and returned to bed. She needed to change the topic before things got too weird. "Okay, so back to when your dad left. Anything odd?"
Their talk got interrupted by the arrival of dinner, but it didn't take long for Liam and Killian to get them all set up with cartons of steaming Chinese food and beer. They sat cross legged on their bed, eating and talking.
"I remember Papa was gone a lot," Liam said. "Claimed he was working."
"Not according to these employment records, brother," Killian said, pointing his chop sticks at the file. "He was out of work more often than he was in!"
"Unless he was working in something illegal," Emma countered.
"But we lived in a council estate," Liam said. "That's hardly high living."
"You made ends meet though. Do you think he might have had a gambling problem or something?"
"No, no, nothing like that," Liam said quickly. Then he thought about it, sighing. "Honestly, I really don't know. Looking at it now, I don't think I knew him as well as I thought I did. He was just our Papa."
Emma covered his hand with hers. "We're going to figure this out, Liam. I promise."
"Love, I think your program is finished," Killian cut in, setting aside his carton. He handed her the laptop; she examined it, a frown etching itself into her features. "What is it?"
"The phone is registered to a Brent Churchill. Funny." She scrolled through the calls. "And it's only been in use for four days."
"That was right before he knocked on our door!" Killian cried.
"I think it's a burner phone, probably prepaid."
"Why would he give me the number for a burner phone?" Liam asked warily.
"Because he's...how did you say it, love? Not on the level?"
"Yeah. Something is definitely not right."
"Does this change anything?"
"That's up to you guys. How badly do you want answers?"
Liam looked at Killian. "We need to know. I don't want to make the same mistakes he did." He looked meaningfully at Emma.
"We are not our father, Liam. But if he's got it out for us or Emma, then we need to know. Call him."