Author's note: Two things: There's a pretty significant anal play scene in this one. Following it through to its logical conclusion, at least at this stage. So if pegging squicks you out, then you might want to skip that scene. In addition, this chapter end with a cliffhanger. *ducks flying fruit*

Disclaimer: Very, very not mine. Boo!

Part 7

"Come on, love!" Killian hollered up the stairs. "We're gonna be late!"

"Coming!" Emma slipped into a pair of her favorite heels before rechecking her reflection in the mirror. She smoothed down her short golden dress and fluffed her hair one last time. They were going to a party to celebrate Robin's acquittal by the board. Gisbourne's confession collapsed the prosecution's case and Emma couldn't say she was sad about that. After the way Dorsey treated her on the stand, she was thrilled to have Robin get the justice he deserved. It was a bit imperfect—Nottingham was still free to cause mischief—but he could resume his career without a stain on his record.

Emma grabbed her purse and headed downstairs; the boys were waiting for her. It was a much more casual affair, no uniforms. Her boys still looked rather handsome in their suits (although she suspected the jackets and ties would be gone fairly early in the evening); she smiled warmly at them. "Sorry, I took so long."

"Nonsense, sweetheart," Liam said, drinking her in. "You look wonderful."

"Thanks. We need to get going though. I've got a bottle of rum to accept!"

They all laughed and headed for the waiting cab. She was looking for a vehicle of her own when she wasn't working; she'd only been at it a couple of days. She missed her Bug keenly, but she knew it would be impractical to have something like it in the London weather. When and if she applied for permanent residency she'd have to get all of her things transferred as well. She'd already begun some of it; she had an appointment with her new doctor the following week. Each day that she remained with them gave her a feeling of permanence that she'd never really experienced before.

Until a year ago, nothing in her life was permanent.

Killian toyed with the back of her knee in the cab, brushing the sensitive area teasingly. "Having fun over there?" Emma asked, suppressing a shiver. She did want to enjoy the party before they returned home and indulged themselves in their favorite pastime.

"Mmhmm," he hummed with a smirk.

"Are you gonna behave yourself?"

"Do you want me too, lass? Truly?"

"Killian, these are your peers," she pointed out. "They'll think you're some sex crazed maniac."

"They'll simply be jealous that we get to take you home," Liam said, lacing his fingers with hers.

"You really don't care?"

"Anyone who disrespects you or our relationship isn't someone we want to know," Liam said firmly.

Emma couldn't think of anything to say to that so she kissed him. Then she kissed Killian. "I love you guys. Have I mentioned that lately?"

"Still nice to hear, love," Killian replied, his lips brushing the corner of her mouth.

When they arrived at the Club, Liam paid their driver and climbed out, offering his hand to Emma. She took it and got out, shaking out her skirt. "Are you sure this is okay?" She'd never been to their Navy Club; she didn't want to make a bad impression or break any rules.

"You're stunning, Emma," Liam assured her. "Always."

Emma rolled her eyes but flushed anyway. Both of them knew how to appeal to her pride without coming off as insincere. They truly did find her utterly beautiful. They joined Killian, who was waiting at the curb for them. He offered his hand and Emma took it, twining their fingers. Ever since the ball several months ago, it seemed fruitless to pretend that they weren't what they were.

Emma let out a breath she didn't know she was holding after the doorman let them inside. It was a curious mixture of old and older, at least to her eyes. Killian had told her that the building had been refurbished in the 1950s, but not much had been done since, at least not cosmetically. Fortunately it did have air conditioning, which was good since it had finally begun to get really warm.

Emma hoped the weather would hold for their trip to France.

Liam and Killian waved greetings to a few people they knew before heading to the bar. "Your usual, love?" Killian asked.

"Sure." He ordered her a rum and coke and a beer for himself and Liam. Emma looked around, taking in the décor. Nearly every wall had at least one portrait of some famous officer; a few of them were noble, she noted.

"Liam!" someone yelled. A man of medium height hurried over to them, a drink in his meaty fist. Emma cataloged the red hair and blue eyes automatically. An old friend, perhaps?

"Sanders!" Liam cried, a surprised grin on his face. "I didn't expect to see you here, old chap!"

"I've only recently been transferred," Sanders replied, clapping Liam on the back. "Counter Intelligence. Still in Tyler's office?"

"Aye, but not for much longer. Promotion's coming in the fall." Liam puffed his chest out ever so slightly; Emma had to stifle a laugh. Killian caught her eye and grinned. They took a sip of their drinks to hide their amusement. Emma was very proud of her boys, but Liam especially, tended to be just a tiny bit pompous. She sometimes wondered what he'd do without the validation the Navy gave him.

"Your own ship? How extraordinary!" Sanders enthused. "I do believe you might be the first of us!"

"Aye, well, much has changed since the Academy, Owen."

Killian cleared his throat loudly, catching Sanders' attention. "Killian? Is that you?"

Killian cringed ever so slightly; Emma felt bad for him. She knew there wasn't anything they could do about outsiders seeing him as Liam's "little brother;" all he wanted was the respect due him as a good officer. "Aye."

"Still riding Liam's coattails, eh?"

"What is your problem?" Emma snapped. "Killian's a good officer, all on his own."

Sanders looked taken aback, until then he hadn't truly registered her presence. "And who might you be, my dear?"

Emma thrust her chin out. "Emma Swan."

"Now where have I heard that name?" Sanders pondered. He stroked his chin.

"Our dear Emma was the lead investigator on Hood's case," Liam said proudly. "Gave them the clues they needed bring Gisbourne in."

Sanders' blue eyes widened. "That was you, lass?"

"Yeah. That's why we're here, to celebrate with Robin."

"In that case, I shall not detain you any longer," Sanders said, offering his hand to Emma to shake. "The Captain and his officers are in the private lounge. Now I understand why." Emma shook his proffered hand briefly; his skin was sweaty and clammy. It took all of her willpower not to wipe her hand on her dress. "She's a beauty, Liam."

Emma had to fight to roll her eyes. She pointedly took Killian's hand and looped her right through Liam's left. It was a bit awkward while holding her drink but she made it work. Sanders' eyes widened as they passed; Liam calling a farewell.

"Are all your friends that much of an ass?" Emma asked as they walked away.

"Sorry about that," Liam said. "I wouldn't say we were friends exactly. I knew him at the Academy. He was a ponce then as well."

"Did you see his face?" Emma said with a chuckle. "You'd think he'd swallowed a mouse."

"Serve him right," Killian groused.

Emma squeezed his hand. "He had no right to say that to you. You guys simply enjoy serving together, which is more than fine with me. I get to have you both home with me."

"Pay him no mind, little brother. You're a good officer; we'll show everyone that very soon."

"Not too soon," Emma said quietly.

"We'll make every day count between now and then, love," Liam said solemnly. "I swear."

She put on a brave smile. "I know." Killian squeezed her hand in sympathy. He was the only one who knew how scared she was of them being deployed. But they had time.

They made it to the lounge where Robin, Will and other officers of the Sherwood were waiting. Will saw them first, raising his glass as they entered. "We thought you'd gotten lost!"

"Got waylaid by one of Liam's bloody friends," Killian said. He let go of Emma long enough to hug his friend. "How is everyone?"

"Waiting for you lot mostly."

"Please tell me I'm not the only woman at this thing?" Emma said, hugging Will as well.

"Off in the head," Will assured her. "Back in a jiff."

"Emma!" Robin cried. He joined them, giving each Jones brother a hearty handshake, while Emma received a hug. She hadn't been expecting it, but didn't mind it all that much. That kind of affection was getting easier to deal with all the time. And Robin was becoming her friend. "I've got your recompense, never fear."

"I hope you got the good stuff, Captain," Emma replied with a wink. Robin laughed and moved so he could introduce her and the Jones brothers to the others. Wives and girlfriends returned and Emma got dragged off into a flurry of activity. It was difficult to keep everyone's name straight; they kept asking her questions before she could ever get a complete sentence out.

Liam offered to fetch her another drink; Killian was deep in conversation with Robin and Will. It was definitely one of the strangest parties Emma had ever been to. "Is it true?" one of the ladies asked. "That you're with both of them?"

Emma inhaled deeply; she knew this would come up sooner or later. "Yeah. We're together."

"How does that even work?"

Wouldn't you like to know? Emma thought. "Very carefully," she quipped.

An older man came in, looking around. He was balding, a bit stooped. Emma recognized him from the main desk. When he saw her, he approached. "Excuse me, miss. Be you, Emma Swan?"

"I am."

He frowned. "I'm afraid I need to ask you to leave."

"Leave? Why?"

The old man looked distinctly uncomfortable now. "There's been a complaint, miss. It's the rules. I am sorry."

"Complaint? About what?" She was getting really annoyed now. What rule could they have possibly broken?

"What's going on?" Killian asked, coming over. He wrapped an arm around Emma. "Amos? What's wrong?"

"There's been a complaint about Miss Swan, Lieutenant," Amos said, still looking stooped. "She needs to leave."

"You can't be serious. Members significant others are permitted!"

"Please, I'd rather not discuss the complaint in front of the ladies, Lieutenant."

"What the bloody hell is this?" Will said, joining them. They were gathering a crowd.

"Amos says that Emma has to leave," Killian said through gritted teeth.

"Killian," Emma said, trying to calm him. She could see the redness at the tips of his ears. He was incredibly angry. "It's okay." It wasn't, but she didn't want to cause more trouble.

"It's bloody well not okay, love."

"Killian? Emma? What's all this?" Liam finally came back with Emma's drink.

"Amos here has a problem with Emma," Will informed him.

"What? Now see here, man, she is with us. I specifically checked to make sure..."

"It's not my doing, sirs!" Amos said plaintively. "Lt. Commander Sanders made the complaint."

"That sodding git!" Killian snarled. He started to move but Emma held him back.

"Killian, it's not worth it." She took his hands and pulled him around to face her. His pretty blues eyes were flashing with anger, refusing to look at her at first. "Hey, look at me." With a sigh he did. "We can go somewhere else; it's okay."

"Love, are you sure?"

She reached up and cupped his cheek. "I'd go anywhere with you guys. You know that." Then she leaned in and kissed him; she felt the worst of his irritation drain out of him under the gentle pressure of her lips.

When she pulled back, Killian addressed the room. "We're moving this little party to the pub down the street, everyone! Anyone who wishes to join us, be there in fifteen minutes!"

"You heard the man, lads and lasses!" Will yelled. "On with ya!"

Robin looked at them and nodded. "Amos, tell Sanders that I will be personally dealing with him later."

"Aye, sir!" Amos left, still stooped.

Emma looked around. "Um, where's Liam?"

"He was right here..." Killian began, then they all heard a crash. "Fucking hell." He took off, Emma right behind him. Will and Robin followed. They found Liam back in the main lounge, standing over Sanders, his lip and hand bloody.

"Liam!" Emma cried.

"How dare you insult her!" Liam yelled. "You're a fucking disgrace!" He swing his arm back to swing but Killian and Will lunged for him. "Get off!"

"Liam, no," Emma said urgently, stepping amidst the men. She gave Sanders a kick in the ribs and he scrambled away, his eye already turning black and blue. Good riddance, Emma thought. "Hey, hey," she said, turning her attention back to Liam. "Come back to me, okay?"

Liam closed his eyes, breathing deeply. Emma took a look at his hand; it didn't look too bad, just needed to be cleaned. When he opened his eyes, he looked contrite. "Emma, I..."

"It's okay." she said softly. "We're all okay." She pulled him into a hug. Liam buried his head in her neck, still trying to whisper apologies. Emma hushed him, both annoyed and touched that he actually tried to beat the guy up. "We're moving the party; come with us?"

"Of course." He kissed her lightly, ignoring his bruised and bloody lip. Then Liam cleared his throat. "Thanks," he said to Will and Killian.

Will was surprised, but nodded. "Anytime, mate."

Emma rolled her eyes and chuckled at them. It was never a dull moment with her boys, but it was nice to see old resentments get laid in the past. Maybe Will and Liam could be friends now too.

The crowd watched them all leave; there were a few whispers but Emma ignored them. Once they got outside, she plucked her phone from her purse. "I'm gonna call Mary Margaret and Ruby, see if they want to join us. Is that okay?" she said to Robin.

"Invite anyone you wish, lass. It was always a bit stuffy in there for me anyway."

They arrived at the pub en masse; Emma thought the barkeep might have a stroke. Robin ordered a round for everyone; Emma urged Liam toward the bathroom. "Let's get you cleaned up." He followed her obediently; Emma wasn't surprised when Killian followed as well.

They stepped into the ladies room and Emma made Liam lean against the sink. "You wanna tell us what happened back there?"

"I'm sorry," Liam said immediately. Emma got some paper towels and wet them before putting Liam's hand under the running warm water. He hissed as it came into contact with his broken skin. "If it helps, I didn't intend to hit him."

"Usually, I'm the one with the temper, brother," Killian chided. "What'd the wanker say?"

"I'd rather not repeat it."

"He called me something, didn't he?" Emma said sadly. She got some soap and washed Liam's hand as gently as she could.

"I went to ask him what he meant, complaining about you, Emma," Liam said. "He said that the club didn't exist to be our private house of immorality and..." He swallowed. "And that you were whoring yourself out to us to get ahead in your career."

Emma stopped their joined hands under the water. In moments it got too hot and she had to yank them away with an annoyed snarl. "Where did he come up with that idiocy?"

"I didn't ask, I merely punched him in the face, lass."

"Was that all?"

"He might have had a few other choice names about you and Killian; I wasn't paying much attention by then."

"Well, you have been practicing your right cross, Liam," Killian reminded him.

Liam winced as Emma rinsed his hand. "Don't remind me."

Emma dried his hand, then started on his busted lip. "Does this hurt?"

"Only a little. I'll live, love."

"Not unless I kill you first."

"Someone's in trouble," Killian chuckled.

"Hey, don't get cocky over there. I had to talk you down too."

"Apologies, lass." Then he smirked. "I thought you liked us cocky.?"

Emma rolled her eyes. "Time and place mean nothing to you, do they?"

"Well...we are all alone," Killian pointed out. "And we went through a terrible ordeal..."

"That wasn't an ordeal; it was some idiot running his mouth off."

"You deserve better than some wanker judging you for being with us, Emma," Liam said seriously.

"And I get that. With you guys."

"But it's worse for you," Killian pointed out. He wrapped his arms around her waist from behind. "People see you with the two of us, you're a whore or a slut. Whereas we get congratulated for bedding you. It's disgusting."

"We can't change the world overnight," Emma said sadly. "I appreciate this, really."

"Emma, he wanted you to leave," Liam said. "Not us. I don't want to be a part of something that won't welcome you. I won't do it."

"Oh." She leaned back into Killian's embrace while reaching for Liam and pulling him close. They held each other for a long time, drawing strength from each other. She loved them enough to deal with anything; she knew that. Against the outside world, they were united.

"We should get back," Emma said quietly.

"Aye," the boys said together. Emma smiled and kissed them both, wondering again what she'd done to deserve their love.

They left the bathroom and found Mary Margaret, David, Ruby and Victor already there. The trio introduced them to everyone (with Robin's help) and the group essentially took over the pub. They drank and laughed, played games. Ruby figured out how the sound system worked and started pumping in some dance worthy songs. David asked if they could clear some of the tables out of the way, but he and Will started before the bartender even opened his mouth. Emma and Mary Margaret giggled, both a little tipsy by then.

"Before things get completely out of hand," Robin said loudly, "I'd like to present Emma with a token of my appreciation for her hard work on my case. I'm not sure I'd be standing among you right now if not for her." Emma got a little push from Liam, who was grinning at her. She walked over to Robin. "As agreed, one bottle of rum!"

Emma laughed along with the rest, accepting the bottle gratefully. "This was my first case after moving here," she said. "I'm just glad it had a good outcome."

"A toast!" Killian called. "To Emma!"

Everyone raised their glasses and toasted, while she blushed furiously. She only really enjoyed being the center of attention in the bedroom. She shook a bunch of hands before she could make it back to Killian and Liam. "I hate you guys."

"What'd we do now?"

"The toast," she grumbled.

"You deserve it," Liam said. "You worked very hard."

"You'll just have to make it up to me then."

"What?"

"Making me the center of attention like that!" she hissed.

Killian waggled his eyebrows. "I'm sure that could be arranged, love."

"You're awful."

"If by awful you mean madly in love with you, then yes."

Emma's eyelids fluttered and she laughed. "Well, come on then, loverboy, and show me what you got!" She grabbed them both by the loose ties and dragged them out to the makeshift dance floor. This was so familiar, just a hint of alcohol fueling her actions (and theirs), dancing to the thumping beat. They weren't the only ones; Ruby and Victor were dancing as were a couple of the other more daring officers and their ladies. But Emma only had eyes for Killian and Liam as they moved around her, hands on her waist or her ass, or sliding up her ribs.

She hummed as Liam ran his hands up her bare arms; she pulled him in for a kiss. They knew everyone there; she didn't have to be shy about being with them. Killian made a strangled pouting noise as he ground his hardening cock against her ass and Emma laughed. She turned her head and kissed him too, a moan slipping out.

"Emma," Liam whispered softly. "Bloody hell."

"I told you, to show me what you've got," she reminded him. "You're not quitting now, are you?"

"Vixen."

"You love it, sailor." She smiled coyly and slipped from between them, heading in the general direction of the bathroom. She had no idea of they would actually follow her, but she hoped. After the club she was feeling a little reckless, a wee bit tipsy. Her blood hummed pleasantly and she wanted to see what they would do.

She didn't exactly make it to the bathroom. Instead, they caught up with her and tugged her into what appeared to be a storeroom. Liam's mouth was on hers before she could breathe, as if he were trying to devour her. She thought it must hurt a little; she could fell the broken flesh against her lips. If it did, then Liam didn't care as he shoved his tongue deeply into her mouth. Emma clutched at his forearms, trying to remain upright.

Killian flipped the lock on the door and started working the zipper of her dress. She had to release Liam long enough to shimmy it off; the air was cooler than she expected and goosbumps rose on her skin. "Here?" she panted when Liam moved down to her throat.

Killian ground his erection into her ass. "Here," he growled into her skin. He was rubbing and stroking the soft skin of her back, teasing her. "You in that bloody dress...moving like that...fuck, love."

Emma reached behind her blindly, finding his crotch and rubbing him through the fabric. Killian moaned, rocking into her hand. Liam pulled the cups of her bra down and sucked eagerly on her nipples, until they were painfully hard. The abrupt change from teasing to actually on the verge of fucking in a closet was making her impossibly wet; her panties soaked. Killian coaxed her chin around so he could kiss her, his hand sliding into her panties.

"Oh shit," Emma swore. She gasped as Killian mercilessly rubbed and pinched her aching nub.

"God, she's soaked through, brother," Killian said lowly. "Can't wait to bury myself in that greedy cunt."

"Oh god, hurry," she breathed. "They'll miss us."

"So?" Liam growled. He bit down on her right nipple and she keened. "This is our time, Emma."

"We're in a...fuck...closet!"

"Don't care."

Killian slid two fingers inside her heat; Emma trembled. "Come for us, then we'll fuck you," he murmured.

She was so fucking turned on that it only took a minute or so for Killian's long fingers and Liam's wet mouth to drag her over the edge. She stood there between them, still trembling, as they yanked off their ties and opened their pants. Emma managed to shimmy out of her panties and toss them on top of her dress. She left her bra on, even though it was slightly stretched out now.

They passed her from one to the other pressing passionate kisses to her lips, as she fumbled with their shirt buttons. Their suit jackets got used as blankets on the hard floor, as Killian stretched out on his back. "Come here, darling."

Emma clambored on top of him, wasting no time sliding her slick flesh over his thick cock. "God, that feels good," she muttered, dragging her clit along the ridge of his shaft.

"You are so fucking hot, Emma," Liam panted, stroking his own cock. "Jesus."

Emma looked up at him, crooking her finger. "Get over here." Liam did as she asked, and she pulled him close enough that she could wrap her lips around the tip of his cock. She kept rocking over Killian's, teasing him before taking him inside her. Both men moaned as she took Liam deeper into her mouth, tongue swirling around.

"Emma, please," Killian bit out, thrusting his hips up. "Need you, love."

She released Liam with a soft pop. "You have your phone?"

"Aye...do you...here?"

"What's wrong with here?"

"Fucking hell, Emma." Killian dug in the pocket of his bunched pants and produced the phone. He flipped it to the video setting, first pointing it up at her face, where she was still teasing Liam with her mouth and hand. Then she grinned wickedly and lifted her hips. Killian nodded furiously as she took him in hand and slowly lowered herself down, all as he recorded her. Emma moaned softly, biting her lip, relishing that first deep slide.

"Fuck," Killian swore, his hips rising a bit as she moved slowly. "Don't ever stop."

Emma circled her hips, one hand pressed to Killian's chest, the other still wrapped around Liam's cock.

"Emma," Liam said in a strangled voice. "God."

She picked up her pace a little, then took Lima back into her mouth. It was a trick, finding a rhythm they all enjoyed, but she knew she hit it when both men jerked and moaned. Killian kept recording, capturing her every move as she fucked them. She found her clit and rubbed it in slow circles, making her shiver. She really shouldn't be dragging this out; it should just be a quickie in the closet. But then they were together like this, the rest of the world fell away and it was only them and their pleasure.

Liam had his hand in her hair, more to steady himself than to guide her. She knew what he liked, how fast to go, where to swirl her tongue...when to lick the sensitive spot just below the head. He grunted hoarsely, thrusting deeper into her mouth. "Close," he panted. "So close, love."

Emma hummed around him, encouraging him as best she could. Her knees were starting to ache a bit on the hard floor as she moved. Liam started to fuck her mouth in earnest, pulling her hair back. He exploded down her throat with a strangled moan of her name; she swallowed every single drop. When he was spent, she released him, turning her full attention to Killian.

"You feel so good inside me," she breathed. "Give me your hand."

Killian switched the phone to his left hand and extended the right toward her. She took it in hers and guided it to her swollen clit. "Oh god, right there, Killian. Yes."

"Lean back, love. Take your pleasure. Let us watch you."

"Shit." She did so, resting her hands on Killian's strong thighs as she rode him faster, took him deeper. She rolled her hips, so he hit every spot that made her hiss and moan in pleasure. She was probably making too much noise, but it felt too good to stop.

"So beautiful," Liam murmured. He knelt and replaced Killian's fingers with his own, his deft touch combined with Killian's cock had her trembling in moments. "Come on, Emma."

She whimpered, hips moving faster, coming with a soft cry. Killian followed her moments later, hips rising off the floor and driving into her as he fell. They all rode out her orgasm, until she was whimpering from the aftershocks. Liam eased her off Killian's lap, letting her stretch out on the suit jackets next to his brother. She struggled to catch her breath; the reality of what they'd just done settling in her chest.

"I...can't believe...we just did that," she panted.

"It was only a matter of time," Killian murmured, gathering her in his arms. "You were bloody magnificent, lass."

"We need to get out of here, before someone comes looking for us."

"With any luck, Ruby and Victor are providing some scandalous entertainment without us."

Emma smacked his chest. "They're our friends."

"And I guarantee you Ruby knows exactly what we snuck off to do," Killian chuckled. He kissed the crown of her head. "Think you can get up now?"

"No, but I'll do it anyway." She had that boneless sated feeling that she got after a really good orgasm; it was beyond annoying not to be in their bed right now. She took Liam's proffered hand; he was already mostly redressed. His pants and shirt were buttoned, his tie hung loosely around his neck.

"We'll leave first, then you can duck into the bathroom and clean up," he said, kissing the back of her hand.

"Oh god, I bet I look like I just had sex in closet."

"I think it's a storage room, lass."

"Whatever, same thing." She fixed her bra and found her panties, sliding them back on. Liam helped her with her dress while Killian fixed his clothes. They each kissed her sweetly before Killian opened the door. He and Liam slipped out and Emma counted to fifty before following them. She ducked into the bathroom, slipping in the stall to clean up.

When she came out, she jumped about a mile in the air. Mary Margaret and Ruby were waiting for her. "I told you they were having sex," Ruby said to Mary Margaret. "Twenty pounds, pay up."

Emma went beat red. "Oh my god."

Ruby just grinned like the fucking Cheshire Cat. "Don't worry, everyone's used to it with me and Victor. You guys are fine."

Emma did not agree. "This is so not fine," she grumbled, heading to the sink to wash her hands. She was still hoping the floor would open up and swallow her whole.

"Emma," Mary Margaret began.

"Don't say fine," Emma snapped.

"I wasn't. I was merely going to point out that we've all done it. It's one of the perks of the honeymoon phase."

Both Ruby and Emma stared at her. "Y-y-you and David?"

"Just because we're a little more...conservative than you guys doesn't mean we're robots!" Mary Margaret huffed.

"Damn," Emma said. "I don't think I'd have ever guessed that." But it did get her thinking. "Wait, how did you get him to agree to have the wedding here?"

Mary Margaret blushed. "Let's just say our trip to that shop wasn't wasted."

Both Emma and Ruby giggled. "I don't need to know details but...good for you, Mary Margaret," Emma said sincerely. Her friend looked a little embarrassed but pleased. Emma was happy for her.

"So Emma, what did happen tonight? I mean before, when you called us," Mary Margaret said seriously, thankfully changing the subject. "You sounded a bit...off."

"It's not a big deal." But then she reconsidered. These were her friends. She trusted them, not quite as much and Liam and Killian, but they accepted her and her relationship. She could tell them and trust them not to judge her. "You see Liam's busted lip?" They nodded. "Well, he decked some friend of his for getting us kicked out of their club."

"No!" Mary Margaret and Ruby said together.

Emma proceeded to tell the story, leaving out the worst of the insults hurled at the trio. "So Killian declared that we were heading here and I called you guys to join us. I kinda needed some friendly faces," she admitted.

Mary Margaret smiled in sympathy and she abruptly gave Emma a hug. She was a bit surprised, but accepted it in the spirit it was given. "I'm glad you called us." Ruby agreed.

"Thanks, guys."

"Come on, we should get out of here before the guys drink the place dry," Ruby quipped. Emma and Mary Margaret laughed and they left the bathroom. Emma hadn't realized how much she needed her friends until they got some alone time together. Having the boys and her friends around made everything easier to deal with; it was quite a change from the old Emma. Emma liked this version of herself much better.

They rejoined the others; Will and then Robin stole her away for a dance. Both men were slightly drunk, but fortunately they were happy, friendly drunks. She found Liam talking to David when she was finished, and he handed her another drink.

"Having fun, love?"

"Yeah. Much better party than the one we left."

He smirked at her. "I'll say."

Emma smacked his arm; his suit jacket and Killian's were hanging off chairs now. They were both a little dirty and Emma tried not to flush. Killian found her and they went to dance for a bit. Emma was a bit surprised that they could just continue to enjoy the party like nothing happened and told Killian so.

"Well, this is your night, Emma," he pointed out. "We want you to enjoy it. In all its aspects."

"Technically, it's Robin's night."

"Except for the fact that he'd still be in the brig if not for you."

"Except Nottingham is still out there."

Killian pulled her a little closer. "There's nothing you can do about that. Karma'll catch up with him, sooner or later."

"You believe that?"

"Liam and I found you, didn't we? After wretched romances. I don't think you understand just how profoundly you've changed our lives, love."

"Mine too," she said. She shuddered to think how empty her life would be in she hadn't met them in that club.

"You too, what?" Liam murmured, sliding up behind her. The song was slow; they were swaying together, not really moving.

"We were just talking about much things have changed for us, brother."

"Ah." Liam pressed a kiss to Emma's neck. "He's right, you know."

Killian laughed incredulously. "You sure you didn't take one to the head, Liam? I could have sworn you said I was right."

Liam scowled over Emma's shoulder. "Sod off."

"Only if Emma helps."

Emma rolled her eyes at the pair of them. "It's lucky I love you both," she said. "How would you cope?"

"Mmm, too right, lass," Liam murmured. "Ready to go home?"

"Not enjoying the party?"

"The party's fine; I would just like to have you naked in our bed more."

"Again?"

"Love, I don't think we will ever tire of you."

Emma chuckled. "Mary Margaret called this the honeymoon phase."

"Well, if it is," Killian said, pulling her hips so they were flush. "Then it's going to last for a very long time."

"You should be careful what you wish for," she said, her hands dropping to his ass and squeezing. "The Mistress might come out to play."

Killian's eyes lit up. "Truly?"

"If you want. Liam?"

"I do enjoy you giving orders, lass."

Emma shivered. "Then we should definitely get home."

It didn't take them long to say goodnight to their friends; Ruby winked at Emma as they left and she blushed. There were some things she was still getting used to sharing.

They tried not to fool around in the cab back home, but the drive from Pall Mall back to Paddington took so long and Emma didn't want to wait. It was dark so their driver couldn't see the hands sliding up her skirt or Emma's palming their hardening cocks as they nibbled on her skin. They were all a little buzzed from the alcohol and that just heightened the experience.

When they finally go home, Emma pinned Liam to the front door, winding his loose tie around her finger and dragging his lips down for a passionate kiss. "Do you want to play with us?" she asked, licking his throat. She always wanted to give him the option, so he didn't feel left out.

"Does watching count?"

She nodded. She wouldn't push him where he wasn't quite ready to go. "Or you could listen." She got up by his ear. "Would you let me blindfold you?"

Liam shivered in her arms. He loved his control, but she wanted him to feel like he could let go. "Aye, I think I could do that."

Emma grinned happily and kissed him again, deeply. "I love you."

"I know."

Emma took his hand, then Killian's, and led them to their bedroom sanctuary. Then she looked at Killian, her Mistress role settling on her shoulders. "Strip." He did so and she kicked off her shoes and went back to Liam. They tumbled into the bed, kissing and touching, slowly removing each other's clothing. Emma glided her hand over his stiff cock, relishing his moan of pleasure. She knew Killian was watching them, so she continued her exploration, driving Liam insane as she kissed and licked and stroked him.

"Hand me one of the silk scarves," she ordered. They knew exactly who she was talking to, but she felt Liam shudder all the same. Killian scrambled to obey her, putting the cloth into her hand. "Ready?" Liam nodded, licking his lips. "You need a safe word."

He cocked his head and thought for a moment. "Draught?"

"Perfect." She kissed him one last time then carefully slid the silk over his blue eyes. She knotted it behind his head. "That okay?"

"Aye."

"Good boy." She moved away from his warmth, her body humming with expectation. She wanted this to be fulfilling for all of them. Killian left the box at the edge of the bed and Emma dug inside it for the furry handcuffs. She walked directly up to Killian and clipped them around his wrists. "Arms up." He looked curious, but obeyed her. She dragged the stool over and climbed on top to secure his wrists to the hook that hung from the ceiling. This, of course, put her breasts at Killian's mouth level and he took advantage, slipping one nipple between his lips.

Emma inhaled sharply, surprised by his boldness. Or he wanted to be punished. She suspected the latter, even though his mouth felt amazing. She let him go on for a bit, feeling the heat pool in her belly. "Well, since you seem so interested on using that mouth," she said, grabbing him by the chin, "you might as well do it properly." Lust flared in his eyes as he nodded, turned on by her demanding tone. She gave him her other breast, keening softly as he sucked eagerly on her flesh. Eventually, she pulled away with a pop, his smacking lips not doing anything to harness her need.

But this was for him and his pleasure.

Emma stepped off the stool and shoved it away with her foot. "Did I give you permission to suck my nipples?" she demanded.

"No, Mistress."

"Then why did you?"

Killian swallowed. "Because I hoped you would punish me."

"You like being naughty? You like making me punish you?"

"Yes, Mistress."

Emma walked up to him and gave his straining cock a cruel twist and he yelped. "I shouldn't give it to you," she whispered in a deadly voice. "But I will. You're not allowed to make a sound unless I ask you a direct question. Do you understand?" A shudder rolled through him as he nodded. "Say it."

"I understand, Mistress."

"Good." She went back under the bed and found her bag from the sex shop. This was the perfect opportunity to break in her new paddle. Killian's eyes went wide when he saw, but he didn't speak. Emma toyed with it, circling him, sliding the edge of the smooth wood over his flushed skin. Sometimes she gave his cock a stroke or two, just to watch him writhe. Moving eased the ache inside her just a bit; she caught glimpses of Liam, his hand wrapped tightly around the bedpost, his cock red and throbbing against his stomach.

Smack.

The wooden paddle came down hard on Killian's ass; he couldn't stop the tiny hiss and moan that escaped. "You get an extra one for every sound," Emma warned. "You've still got ten now." Since this was their first time with the paddle, she decided to go easy on him. If he enjoyed it, then they could up the ante next time. Killian nodded his understanding, his arms bulging and straining from holding himself up. Emma swatted his ass again, just a hair harder, watching his skin pink nicely.

She stroked the warm flesh, soothing him a bit before striking again. And again. And again. Her clit throbbed painfully as she spanked him, seeing him bite his lip against making any sound. Her nipples were hard and puckered, her core clenching. She essentially had both men at her mercy and it turned her on. A lot.

When she finished, Killian let out a harsh breath, his chest heaving. But his pupils were so dilated, nearly his entire iris was gone. Emma put her hands on his chest and stood up on her toes to kiss him, a small reward for being such a good boy. "Now...should I play with you or myself?" she asked wickedly.

She heard Liam groan loudly. Emma curled her fingers around Killian's length, moving down to press open mouthed kisses to his chest and stomach. "I asked you a question, Killian," she snapped.

"Both?" he said hesitantly.

"Hmm, I like that plan." She kissed right over his heart then went to get her supplies. Emma knelt on the floor behind him, laying her things aside until she needed them. Then she cupped his cheeks, kissing the still pink skin. Killian shivered as she slowly spread him, just like the first time she ever did this for him. She brushed his puckered hole with her thumbs then began to lick and massage the tight ring with her tongue.

He slowly relaxed in her arms, rocking on the balls of his feet. She could hear the strangled whimpers and moans but didn't chide him. She loved those sounds. She reached down to her own sopping flesh and wet two fingers before she started to work him open. Killian couldn't stop his groan of pleasure as first one finger then a second worked their way inside him.

"This is so hot, Killian," Emma murmured, kissing the dimples in his lower back. "Do you like when I touch you like this?"

"God yes," he whimpered, rocking back toward her. Emma twisted her fingers and found his spot, which made him curse.

Emma licked her lips, using her other hand to fumble for the toy. She took the dildo with the suction cup and positioned it on the wooden floor, as close to her dripping cunt as she could get. Once it was secure, she lowered herself onto it, riding it like she would them.

"Oh god," she gasped, letting the toy fill her. "That feels...yes."

"What are you doing?" Liam asked, his voice a throaty whisper.

"Riding a dildo while finger fucking Killian," she replied. "I'm so wet, Liam."

"Fucking Christ," Liam swore.

"Touch yourself," Emma said. "But I want you to come inside me."

He nodded furiously, taking himself in hand and sighing as he barely eased the ache. Killian whimpered and Emma lightly swatted his ass. "And what do you want, Killian? Do you want to be fucked too?"

Killian shuddered, letting out a shaky breath. "Please, Mistress. I want it so much."

"You want me to fuck you?" She wanted to make absolutely certain he wanted this.

"Yes, Mistress. Please."

Emma had to bite back a moan as she rode the dildo faster. She'd only imagined that he'd let her do something like that, and now he was begging for it. Emma rubbed her clit in quick strokes, letting out a cry as she came. "Fuck," she cursed, riding it out. The moment she was steady, she slipped her fingers from Killian and stood. She stalked around him, kissing him hungrily. "When I let you down, go to the chair and kneel in it. Do not move."

"Aye, Mistress."

Emma let him down and he went. Once she was sure he obeyed, she went back to her bag and got out the strap on. She'd bought on a whim in Brighton; now she was glad she did. It took her a couple of minutes to figure where all the straps went, but she got it on. It was an odd sensation, but she had a feeling they would all enjoy it. It had little silicone fingers that rubbed and massaged her clit as she walked to where Killian was waiting.

Emma grabbed a fist full of his hair and yanked. "Are you sure?"

Killian squirmed. "Aye, Mistress."

"Don't come until I say."

Killian groaned but agreed. She hoped she could make him come just from this, but she knew nothing was certain since it was their first time. Emma put some lube on her fingers and went back to massaging him, opening him up. The dildo wasn't that big—not nearly as big as they were—but she didn't want to hurt him unnecessarily. Killian moaned and whimpered, clearly enjoying the attention. Once she was satisfied, she spread a liberal amount of lube on the dildo. She teased him with the tip, just like they liked to do to her, before beginning to slowly, slowly, push inside.

"Oh, oh, oh fuck," Killian whimpered, clinging to the top of the chair. "God, Emma."

Emma yanked a bit on his hair. "What was that?"

"Mistress, mistress!" he cried. "Please don't stop."

It was a slightly different movement of her hips, but she soon got the hang of it, still going slowly, shallowly, letting him adjust. She held on to his hips, watching the dildo disappear inside him, a little deeper each time. "Tell me," she said. "Tell me how this feels."

Killian bit back a moan, his fingers digging into the leather of the chair. "G-g-good," he stuttered, rocking his hips back. "Especially...god, right there, Mistress." He trembled in her hold, panting harshly. Emma repeated her motion, hitting the same spot again. "I just...feel...everywhere. And full...fuck, that's good."

Emma reached around and lightly stroked his cock, making him moan louder. "That's how I feel," she said quietly. "When your cocks are inside me, fucking me. I just want to keep you there, all the time." On each drive of her hips, the little fingers rubbed her clit and it felt amazing. But she still lacked something. She wanted to be filled too. She rocked her hips harder into him, making him jerk and moan.

"Oh yes, more," Killian pleaded.

"Liam," Emma panted. "Liam, I need you. Now." She looked over her shoulder and watched him tear the blindfold off; he looked wrecked, wrecked and needy and fuck, she needed him, just like that. When he got to them, he kissed down her back as he slid three fingers inside her drenched heat. Emma keened; it wasn't enough but it felt so good.

"Liam, just fuck me. Please."

Killian cursed, his cock hardening even more. Liam growled softly and lined himself up, pushing into her as she pushed into Killian. She cried out in pleasure, one of her dirtiest fantasies coming true. It took a few fits and starts but they found a rhythm, their mutual moans filling the room. She could feel Liam inside, his breath hitching as he found just the right angle. The dual stimulation nearly drove her mad with ecstasy, but she managed to focus on Killian, building his orgasm until he was shivering with the need to come.

"I need...fuck, I need..." he bit out. "Emma, please."

"Hurry," Liam echoed. "Oh god."

Emma jerked Killian's cock hard, giving him permission to come at last. She drove into him hard one last time as he exploded, thick spurts of his release striking the leather chair, sliding over her fingers. He screamed, the orgasm rocking him to the core. Liam drove into Emma relentlessly as she lay across Killian's damp back; they came together, wordless cries tumbling from their lips. Emma's whole body seized, feeling the intense pleasure to the very tips of her toes.

Liam kissed between her shoulder blades, his breathing rough. Killian was still shivering, but Emma knew they needed to move. She forced herself up, whimpering as Liam slipped from her. He collapsed into the other chair, while Emma started to take care of Killian. She, too, kissed his back right between the shoulder blades, murmuring a thank you to him. Then she unhooked the strap on and laid it aside to be cleaned. She found the key to the cuffs and uncuffed Killian, checking his wrists carefully. Her own heart was gradually slowing, even as her skin continued to tingle; she could only imagine how he felt.

"You okay?" she asked, gently raising his head.

He smiled weakly. "Aye."

"I didn't hurt you?"

"You were brilliant. Thank you, love."

She smiled. "There you go with that backwards thing again." She lovingly kissed his brow, then headed for the bathroom. Her legs were a little wobbly, but she'd be okay. She cleaned herself up, then brought out a couple clean wet cloths for her boys. She handed one to Liam, who accepted it gratefully. She carefully, cleaned Killian, then helped him into the bed. After wiping down the dirty chair, she threw the dirty clothes in the hamper.

"Liam, could you go get our water?" she asked, gathering up the toys. "I want to finish cleaning up."

"Of course, sweetheart." He dropped a kiss to her lips as he passed. She marched to the bathroom and quickly cleaned and dried everything thoroughly. Then she went back to check on Killian. "Still okay?"

He turned to look at her. "I'd be better snuggling with my girl." Emma smiled and got into the bed with him. He hugged her close, kissing her sweetly. "I love you, Emma."

"I love you too, Killian." They stayed close until Liam returned with their water. Emma handed one to Killian and accepted another for herself, downing most of it in one go. She was parched.

"Hell of a night, huh?" Liam said, sipping more sedately at his water.

"How's your hand?" Emma asked, glancing down at his wound.

"Nothing's broken, I'll be fine, love."

"I never liked that guy," Killian muttered. "Who made him the club police?"

"I don't know," Liam said, his voice suddenly hard. "But we're not taking this lying down. I'm going to have a few words with the president, if I have to."

"Is that a good idea?" Emma asked, worrying her lip between her teeth.

"Emma, you have just as much right to be there as anyone else's wife or girlfriend."

Killian laid aside his empty glass and wrapped his arms around her. "I don't like when people insult you, Emma."

"Well, I don't either, but we should know it comes with the territory by now."

"We'll get this sorted," Liam said, also leaning in to hold her. "I promise you."

If she ever go so low that she wondered if this was worth it, all it took was their soothing, loving touch and she was alright again. It may not be conventional, but it was theirs and she loved them.


They slept in late the next day. Emma woke up when she smelled coffee, frowning a bit when she saw Killian's side of the bed empty. She took a quick shower and dressed, moving in the direction of the smell.

"Hey, you okay?"

He was cutting up a banana for his bowl of cereal. "Did I wake you, love?"

"I smelled the coffee. Don't avoid the question."

He grinned. "I'm perfectly alright. I just wanted to make breakfast for a change."

Emma softened. She couldn't resist him when he looked so earnest and happy. She stepped up to him and greeted him with a kiss. "Then there's your thank you, sailor."

"Ugh, you taste like that wretched toothpaste!" he teased, making a face.

Emma pretended to scowl and swatted his clothed ass. "Watch it, buddy."

"In trouble already, Killian? It's not even noon." Liam came into the kitchen, padding on stocking feet. "Morning, lass."

Emma leaned up to give him a kiss. "Morning yourself."

They went through the kitchen, fetching coffee and bowls and such, enjoying a simple late breakfast. They decided to stay in today and watch movies, enjoying each other's company. It was Sunday so Liam's talk with the club president had to wait until Monday.

"What should we watch first?"

"What about that new Bond film?" Liam asked, flicking through the Netflix.

"What is it with men and those damn Bond films?" Emma muttered.

"They're classics!" Liam exclaimed.

"You only like them because they have scantily clad women in them!"

"I do not!"

"I bet if I named a film, you could tell me the Bond girl." Liam opened his mouth to protest, then shut it. "See?" Emma teased with a knowing grin. She took the remote from him. "It's okay. I'm not jealous."

"You're not?"

"Should I be?"

"No, no, of course not."

Emma looked at the screen. "Oh Goonies!" she cried. "I didn't think you had this here!"

"I don't think I've ever seen this," Liam said, looking skeptical.

"This is a classic!" She pressed play and tossed the remote aside so they could snuggle up on the couch together. Killian, as it turned out, had seen the movie before, but somehow Liam hadn't. They enjoyed seeing him discover it for the first time, laughing and really getting into the story. And since it featured a pirate ship, Emma thought it was appropriate.

After that movie was over, Emma handed over the remote to let Liam choose next. She went to the kitchen to grab some juice and a snack. The doorbell rang. Emma frowned. Who would be bothering them on a Sunday? "I'll get it!" she called, but Killian beat her to it. She couldn't see from the kitchen, but whoever it was got invited in. "Killian, what...?" She stopped in her tracks, an older man with salt and pepper hair stood in their foyer, in uniform, with his hat in his hand.

"Miss Swan, I presume?"

Emma was suddenly very aware of her t-shirt and leggings. And that she wasn't wearing anything underneath them. "Um, yeah. Hello." Way to be eloquent, Emma.

"What's going on?" Liam asked, poking his head around. He snapped to attention the moment he laid eyes on their visitor. Emma would have laughed if she wasn't mentally freaking out. "Sir!"

"As you were, Commander," the man said pleasantly. "This is more of an informal visit."

"Aye sir." Liam relaxed but was not entirely as ease.

"Can we get you something, Admiral?" Killian asked. "Anything?"

"Perhaps some tea?"

"I'll get it," Emma said. She doubled back to the kitchen and put the kettle on. The boys told her that she made quite fine tea; it seemed she'd find out if they were being honest with her or not. What was an admiral doing in their house? It wasn't Admiral Tyler; Emma had never seen this man before. But it seemed the boys knew him.

She put the cups and pot on the tray and took it into the living room. Liam hopped up the moment she entered and took it from her, allowing her to sit as he poured the tea.

"Emma, this is Admiral Quentin Cozzens. He's the president of the club," Killian said, taking her hand firmly in his as she sat next to him. His thumb stroking the back of her hand eased her anxiety somewhat.

"Hello, Admiral," she said, glad that her voice didn't shake.

"My apologies for arriving unannounced and at such an unusual time, but given the events of last night I wanted to speak to you as quickly as possible." He accepted the cup and saucer from Liam, blowing on it and taking a sip. "Ah, excellent." Both boys grinned at Emma. She let out a breath.

"What about last night, Admiral?" Liam asked. The cracked skin of his knuckles could still be plainly seen.

"Well, word spreads quickly," Cozzens said delicately. "A member attacked in front of witnesses."

"Admiral..."

"There will be no disciplinary action, Commander. Most of the members I spoke to were quite appalled at Sanders' actions and have demanded his immediate dismissal."

"Most?" Killian said.

"There's no such thing as universal popularity, Lieutenant."

"So why are you here then, if not to kick them out?" Emma demanded.

"Direct and to the point, Miss Swan," the Admiral said with a smile. Emma couldn't decide if she liked him or not. "My primary purpose in coming was to reaffirm your status as it pertains to our rules."

"And?"

"You are welcome at the Navy Club, Miss Swan. Anytime you wish, as long as the Commander and the Lieutenant are in good standing. Sanders had no right to ask you to leave. I wanted to formally apologize to all of you on behalf of the club and assure you that such a thing will be dealt with swiftly in the future, should the occasion arise. Which I sincerely hope it won't."

"Thank you, Admiral," Liam said. "That means a lot to us."

Cozzens took another long pull on his tea, then smiled. "I've intruded on your Sunday long enough. I hope to see you all at our next club event, lady, gentlemen. Good day to you." He stood, the boys swiftly following. Liam walked the Admiral to the door as Emma sat there a little dumbfounded. That was surprisingly...easy.

"Emma?" Killian asked, looking concerned. "You alright?"

She mentally shook herself. "I can't help wondering what the catch is."

"Catch?"

Liam returned and sat next to her. "We didn't do any thing wrong, Emma. I thought it was rather bold for the Admiral to come all the way here."

"But that's my point!" Emma said. "Doesn't it seem fishy to you?"

"A club following its own rules surely isn't dodgy," Killian said.

"We had to get some people on our side eventually," Liam pointed out. "Not everyone is close minded, lass."

Emma sat back in the soft couch. "I know. I'm just...not used to having people on my side. I mean, I've got you guys. And our friends. I'm not used to catching breaks in the world."

Killian hugged her, sweetly brushing a kiss to her temple. "Here's to hoping we catch a few more of those breaks in the future."

She smiled. "Yeah." She was simply being paranoid. This was a win for them; she'd take it. They talked about it for a little while then went back to their laid back indoor movie date.


Monday Emma went into her office feeling pretty content. She still needed a car and they still needed to get her things from New York (she planned on suggesting they tack it on to their French trip, just make a circle from London to Paris to New York, then back), but aside from that things were good. She was slowly building a client base and a reputation as an investigator in her new home. She was going to be a bridesmaid in her friend's wedding. She had two men who adored her. Life was definitely good for Emma. Probably for the first time ever.

She answered some email, started a couple of background checks on potential clients. She fielded a few calls from some others. She met Lily for a working lunch; the woman was still a bit prickly, but they got along fine. Emma had to admit it was a relief that her police contact was a woman instead of a man. It gave them something to bond over instead of the way Graham spent his time trying to get into her pants. Remembering that actually made her smile since it was the moment that reunited her with her British naval officers.

"Is something funny?" Lily asked.

"Just thinking about an old contact in New York."

"Man?"

"Yeah. He had a very high opinion of himself."

"Did he try and sleep with you?"

Emma shook her head. "No, it never got that far. He was a good cop, don't get me wrong, but he definitely thought he was God's gift. Not every attractive, but most men don't know that, do they?"

"You'd be surprised what most men think is attractive. And the women who fall for it." Wow, that sounded bitter.

"Hey, my first boyfriend abandoned me and sent me to prison for his crime. It was not a fun time."

"But you moved on?" Lily asked, looking at Emma curiously. She couldn't figure out what the other woman was thinking.

"It took a long time, but yeah. My relationship is pretty great. I moved all the way to London for it, so I must be all in, right?" She didn't know Lily well enough to confide her exact circumstances. Not yet.

Lily shrugged. "If you say so."

After lunch, Emma went back to her office. She switched her phone to silent and spent her time focusing on the files Lily had given her. There were a few interesting cases there. She picked out a couple that seemed sufficiently challenging and got to work.

On her way home, she texted Liam and Killian, asking what they wanted for dinner. She didn't get an answer right away, but that didn't worry her. They were probably in a meeting. She turned on the TV and decided to wait for them to get back to her before looking at the menus. She didn't feel like cooking.

"To recap, there's been an explosion," the BBC anchor said when she stopped on the news. "We are getting reports of multiple explosions, but so far they are unconfirmed. An explosion has rocked the Whitehall area and emergency crews are working feverishly to rescue any survivors."

Emma swore she stopped breathing when she saw the footage. The building looked vaguely familiar, but with all the damage she couldn't place it. But she knew she'd been in that part of London before. Whitehall was near Big Ben, which wasn't far from where they took their river excursion weeks before. It was chaos. It reminded her of the scene in New York when the Twin Towers were hit. Dirt and debris everywhere, broken and bloody people. She was a teenager then, watching in horror with everyone else.

"The explosion occurred roughly an hour and twenty minutes ago, for those of you now joining our coverage," the anchor continued. "The Ministry of Defense and several other government buildings have been damaged. The Prime Minister is not currently in residence at Downing Street, but he has been informed and is hurrying back to London. Her Majesty the Queen has also been informed and there are rumors that Prince Harry has been spotted as her representative. The authorities have no leads on who or what has caused this horrific scene."

Emma stopped listening after "Ministry of Defense." That was where Killian and Liam were, in the Navy Building. With shaking hands she grabbed her phone and dialed. And dialed again. And again. Most of them didn't go through; all she got was static or a recording declaring an outage. One call to Liam did got through and Emma screamed in surprise, but all she got was voice mail. When she wasn't trying to call out, people were trying to call her but she ignored anything that didn't show Killian or Liam's smiling faces. She needed to keep the line clear, just in case.

She had to force herself not to panic. But it kept clawing at her throat, threatening to overwhelm her. They were fine. They had to be fine. She couldn't lose them, not now. She started to pace, TV blaring, phone at her ear as she kept trying to call.

She jumped about three feet when the doorbell rang.

Emma hurried to the door, flinging it open. It was Will Scarlet.

"Emma..."

But he couldn't get another word out because Emma started pummeling his chest with both fists. Tears that she'd held back poured down her cheeks, huge hiccuping sobs tore at her throat. She wasn't making sense, raw panic and terror getting the better of her.

Will didn't make much of an effort to stop her. He let her get it out, catching her before she could fall. They sank awkwardly to the stone stoop, Will holding her tightly. "Killian's missin'," Will murmured softly. "Best as I can tell, Liam's already at hospital, but everythin's a jumble. But they're still lookin', still findin' survivors. He'll be fine, lass. They'll find 'im."

Please let him be alive, Emma prayed to a God she wasn't sure she believed in. I need them both so much.

All she could do now was wait.