It seemed that this moment was never going to come and I still can't believe it, but yes, it's happening, a new chapter is here! I'm truly sorry I wasn't able to update before, but as I've already said on some other occasion, there have been a lot of circumstances that have prevented me from writing for one reason or another. My life is slowly returning to normal, and with that, it seems that my inspiration has also returned and I hope it stays with me for a long, long time.
I would like to express my gratitude to csmarchmadness , since this event has been the push that I needed to update this story so special for me.
Also, thanks to captainsjedi for taking a look and to chrissascorner for being my savior and helping me fix mistakes. Special mention to onceuponaprincessworld for her feedback and for always being there. And, as always, thanks to saraswans , for her advice, her constant support, her ideas and because without her this story wouldn't be the same.
Thank you so, so much everyone, for your eternal patience, for continuing to have faith in me and this story. I can't promise anything, but I'll do my best to try to update soon.
A couple of notes about this chapter before starting reading. It begins the day after their first real date. There will be fluff, fluff and more fluff, and also sexy times... but... as I have already commented on other occasions, I'm not a smut writer, and, although this is probably the most smutty thing I've ever written, eh, no, nothing explicit will appear. At least I tried, right?
Monday, July 3, 2017
Ruby: Emma! Where are you? I can't believe you're still asleep.
Ruby: Come on, I'm dying here, I need to know!
Ruby: Or maybe you're busy right now...
Ruby: Tell me you're not alone in your bed.
Ruby: Any more qualities to add to Killian's list? Good kisser maybe?
Ruby: Emma, wake up!
Elsa: Omg! I just saw the picture! It's perfect! I'm very happy for you two. You deserve it. I'll call you later to get all the details of your date.
Emma dropped the phone on the mattress and stretched on the bed, a smile of satisfaction pulling at her lips, as the memory of her date with Killian popped up into her mind. She closed her eyes for a moment as she let herself be enveloped by the lingering sensations, her lips still tingling after tasting the first kisses shared with Killian, her heart still pounding because of her blossoming feelings...
The sound of someone knocking on the door brought her back to reality. Confused, Emma grabbed her phone again to check the time. Too early.
"Emma." Knock knock.
"Emma." Knock knock .
"Emma." Knock knock.
Seriously? Was the nerd imitating Sheldon Cooper? Again?
Despite his unexpected visit — or perhaps precisely because of that— a warm sensation began to hum beneath her skin in anticipation of seeing him again sooner than she had thought. After running her hands through her hair in a failed attempt to untangle it, she rushed to the door, not even bothering to put on her bra. He was her boyfriend now, wasn't he?
She didn't even have time to ask him about the reason for his visit. The moment she opened the door, she was invaded by his warmth, his arms wrapped around her body and his lips catching hers in a kiss maybe too passionate for those hours of the morning.
It only took her a few seconds to react, returning the kiss with enthusiasm while allowing herself to be carried away by the sensations. Even though they had kissed for the first time just a few hours ago, there was already an aura of mutual understanding and confidence in the way her lips molded to his or in the synchronism of their tongues dancing together, as if they had been practicing for much longer.
That didn't stop her body from betraying her in a certain way, because when Killian separated from her, she found it difficult to regain her composure, feeling a slight dizziness taking over her. Luckily, Killian didn't loosen his grip on her waist as she tried to catch her breath, blinking a couple of times to drag away the remnants of sleep and make sure that what she had just experienced had been real and not a figment of her imagination.
"Not that I'm complaining, because obviously I'm not, but what was this about?" Her intention had been to use a carefree tone, but she failed miserably, her words coming out in a shaky breath.
Killian's lips curled into a cocky smirk as he pointed his chin toward his raised hand. The bastard knew the effect he had on her. Even so, she forced herself to look away from his completely kissable lips and directed her eyes towards where he was pointing. Only then did she realize that he was holding a paper bag from which a delicious smell was coming off.
"I thought it was a good idea to bring breakfast on my way to work."
Emma ignored her stomach rumblings as she crossed her arms over her chest and gave him a suspicious look. "But my apartment is not on the way to the docks..."
Killian shrugged. "I guess it's one of the advantages of being your own boss, that allows you to bring breakfast to your girlfriend without worrying about being late."
A strange sensation settled in her heart when she heard him say that word aloud, but Emma preferred to teasing him a bit instead of paying attention to her body's reactions or the escalation of feelings taking over her. "Girlfriend, uh? We've only had one date, don't you think it's a bit pretentious to use that term?"
"Oh, but you're wrong, love. If we ignore the whole month of 'not dating'..." He managed to do the quoting sign with both hands even though he still was holding the paper bag "...Yesterday's would be our third date."
"Third date?"
"Aye, don't you remember our first virtual date, or the second one, the 'movie and popcorn' date?"
She did remember. And she also remembered her own words about a third date — I don't do pillage and plunder until the third date —. The pillage and plunder thing hadn't happened last night, by the way. Emma noticed how her cheeks began to burn as a chill ran down her spine when her treacherous mind started creating different scenarios to develop that activity, each more sinful than the one before.
"Whatever you say." Emma snapped, forcing herself to save those thoughts for another time. "I'm hungry, let's see what you've brought me."
She grabbed the bag and headed for the kitchen. If Killian realized her agitation he didn't mention it, he simply followed her lead. And if her hips swayed slightly in her way trusting that he wouldn't take his eyes off her and that at least her actions would have the same impact on him, well, no one had to know.
They enjoyed their first official breakfast as a couple as they had done before, food peppered with smiles, banter and knowing glances. To her relief, no awkwardness arose between them. On the contrary, she felt even more comfortable and secure with him at her side now that she no longer had to suppress her feelings, didn't have to pretend that she wasn't affected by the accidental touch of their hands, and could express her affection through longing glances or the brush of her lips against his.
There was a moment, when Killian placed a soft kiss on her cheek before getting up to pick up the leftovers and clean her countertop, in which Emma had to shake her head to get rid of a certain feeling of disbelief. She found it hard to believe that only a few hours had passed since their first real date. The comfort and domesticity that surrounded them caused a warm feeling to run through her veins and reach her heart making it swell.
He even waited for her to take a quick shower. The last scene that her eyes registered while she headed the bathroom, was the image of Killian settling on her couch as if he owned the place, making it even more necessary a shower that would allow her to get rid of those mixed feelings — delight and panic — that threatened with colliding.
The spray of warm water falling on her had its desired effect, managing to calm her agitated heart. The calm was short-lived, though. That effect went out the window at the moment she returned to her living room and met with the bright flash of a smile and a look of approval through his very blue eyes. God! She was in serious trouble with that man.
Fortunately, her phone came to her rescue once again, as, at that moment, she remembered the unanswered messages sent by Ruby and Elsa. Her bottom lip caught between her teeth in an attempt to suppress the grin that threatened to appear when an idea jumped in her head.
"I have to do something before leaving, come here." Emma waved her hand at Killian as she pulled her phone out of her pocket. He, of course, complied, giving her an inquisitive look as he stood beside her and wrapped his arms around her waist. She raised the hand that held the phone in front of them, as she snuggled up beside Killian. He, always so perceptive, seemed to understand what was her intention, since, without any instructions, he planted a loud kiss on her cheek just as she pressed the button, capturing the moment.
Good Morning ;)
After sending the brief message accompanying the selfie to her two friends, she grabbed her boyfriend's hand — Gods, she still didn't dare utter that word out loud, the term still strange to her — and they both headed for the exit.
Killian, always the gentleman, accompanied her to her car. Before she got into the vehicle though, he wrapped his arms around her waist, leaning down while kissing her softly. It was a brief kiss, just his lips brushing hers, but with the ability to take her breath away to the point that, feeling how he was beginning to break the kiss, she searched his lips again, reluctant to let him go just yet. She didn't care in the least that they were giving quite the show in the middle of the street. Again.
As Emma let herself be wrapped in the sensations, she wondered if that spiral of feeling inside her would ever calm down; if the warmth that spread all over her body would ever get cool; if the butterflies in her stomach would ever stop beating their wings. All of this was so new to her that she was a little overwhelmed by the escalation of feelings in such a short space of time; at the same time, she also feared that those feelings would end at some point, leaving her empty again.
"I would not complain if the breakfast thing becomes a kind of habit," Emma muttered once she managed to detach herself from his lips and look him in the eye.
"I'm afraid I cannot promise you that, love." One of the corners of his lips twisted slightly upward as he scratched behind his ear. "I have some routes scheduled early in the morning for the rest of the week." He added, looking at her sheepishly through his lashes.
Despite his cute apologetic expression, she felt a tug of disappointment in her stomach. Just as her lips moved in an attempt at an incipient pout, he went into action again, slowing the movement with a new kiss. "I'll make up for it, I promise. See you later?" He murmured, his breath caressing her lips and causing a warm sensation humming beneath her skin.
"Sure, just call me." She managed to utter through a goofy smile before finally entering the car.
Reluctant to lose sight of him, she checked from the rearview mirror as Killian walked away in search of his own vehicle. Only when he disappeared from her sight did she realize that she was still grinning like an idiot while she felt the heat on her cheeks. She forced herself to pull herself together, taking two deep breaths to calm her inner agitation and behave like a normal adult person, not like a girl with her first crush.
Just as she was about to start the car, Emma remembered that she hadn't checked her phone. In fact, several messages were waiting to be read. Although she tried to resist, since she was already late for work, she finally gave up, the curiosity to know the content of the texts was more powerful than her urgency to get to work on time. The messages she found did nothing to make her smile weaken, rather the opposite.
Ruby: Omg! He stayed? He spent the night?
Ruby: Tell me something!
Ruby: Emma? Tell me we can add one more skill to the list.
Ruby: I want all the details! Well, maybe not everything.
Ruby: Who am I kidding? I want to know everything! Give me juicy information, please!
Although reluctant, Emma felt obliged to get her out of her mistake.
ES: We haven't slept together. Yet. He only brought me breakfast.
Ruby: He brought you breakfast? Well, 'God in bed' ability will have to wait then. Meanwhile, we can add a hopeless romantic, can't we?
A laugh bubbled up in her throat, but Emma didn't have time to answer Ruby, as her phone continued to buzz. This time it was Elsa who had sent her a message.
Elsa: Omg Emma! You both look so happy! I can't wait to talk to either of you to know the details. I'm so happy for you... Seriously, call me when you have the chance!
ES: I'm heading to work now. I'll call you at lunchtime. Thanks for being there, Elsa.
Elsa: Of course. As I already told you, you can count on me. That's what friends are for, isn't it?
Elsa's last words sank deep into her heart, while Emma felt her eyes begin to sting. She still found it hard to believe that, despite the almost paralyzing fear of lowering the walls and risking exposing herself, that also resulted in a new blossoming sensation, with the ability to make her heart swell. She hoped that feeling of someone caring about her would never go away.
Dating Killian Jones turned out to be much more reassuring than Emma thought. The oppressive fear in her chest had been replaced by the steady flutter of her stomach every time she saw him. Or even if they were not together at that moment, any thought about him had pleasant physical effects on her. Surprisingly, it was as if, with the demolition of the last brick of the wall around her heart, instead of premonitory clouds, a promising sun would now have appeared in front of her.
If someone had told her long ago that Emma Swan, the lonely and guarded woman would at some point experience this continuous state of bliss, this feeling of floating while her heart burst with happiness, she would have laughed, shaking her head in disbelief.
There were days when she still found it hard to believe that this was her life now, her cheeks aching from so much smiling, stomach pain caused by laughter, the perpetual flutter in her stomach, the tingling under her skin. But it was a reality, Emma Swan was happy for the first time in her entire life.
Three weeks later, Emma was still in that kind of state and it didn't seem like it was going to vanish at any time soon, to her relief.
This new stage in their relationship had not brought great changes in their lives, at least compared to the weeks after his return to Boston (If she compared it to Emma's pre-phone loss the change was brutal, though). They continued to perform the same established routines, eat at Granny's, Fringe marathons, sailing, hang out with Belle and Will, and Sunday brunch including the BOWS club meetings.
There was a not so subtle difference, though. Now they had incorporated other types of activities much more pleasurable. That first Bridget Jones Style kiss had been no more than a prelude to the many that were to come. Intense sessions of making out in any of the two apartments were sprinkled with furtive kisses during visits to one or the other's office. Now there were sweet kisses, just a light brush of lips in contrast with the most passionate, those searing kisses with the ability to leave her breathless and make all her skin tingle craving for more.
Their level of intimacy had been limited only to those shared kisses so far, though. Three weeks later she had not yet had the chance to add " God in bed " to Killian's endless list of qualities. They had decided to take things slow. Well, Killian had made the request under the premise that they had all the time in the world, that he preferred not to rush to find the ideal moment, faithful to his decision to make all the advances in their relationship have a special, unique touch, just like their first kiss. Just like their whole relationship from the very first moment, actually.
She had agreed at first, but after several weeks with little or no progress at all in that regard except for some tentative caresses in the heat of the moment Emma had begun to grow impatient, the intense sessions of making out ended too abruptly for her liking, leaving her frustrated, flustered, breathless and exceptionally horny without the possibility of lightening the growing sexual tension dancing among them unless she took things into her own hands.
If this had happened with someone else —named Walsh —she would have started worrying. With Killian, the feeling was different, in spite of everything. At least that indicated his penetrating gaze full of desire, lust, and longing that he directed her non-stop, with the ability to make her melt or set her on fire inside. The way his body pressed against hers when they were wrapped in one of their many kissing sessions making it clear how affected he felt by their activities was also a sufficient indication that the desire was there, simmering inside. She just had to wait for it to surface.
The day he suggested dinner in his apartment for that very night, Emma wondered if the moment had finally arrived. She tried not to read too much in the way he had addressed her, purring the words as he undressed her with his gaze, but her body had betrayed her once more, a rush of liquid heat running to her very core.
Although she had tried to pretend in front of him, using a carefree tone while teasing him with his possible choice of menu for dinner, the truth was that nerves had begun to make an appearance, along with an old friend, a paralyzing fear. This would be the first time in a long time that she shared a bed with someone with feelings involved.
She wasn't a prude, sex was not a problem, or at least it was the least of her issues. This had happened with her several one-night stands over the years. These exchanges were usually something quick and easy, without complications. Both her partner and she knew what they wanted and went for it.
But she wasn't sure what to do with this growing amount of feelings bubbling under her skin. Her mind had only retained small vestiges of what it had been like to make love with Neal and back then she had been too young and inexperienced, at least at the beginning. She suspected that with Killian everything would be different for several reasons, but the main one was that she was already a grown woman, had gained enough experience and, above all, her feelings were now much more intense. That thought alone made her heart beat frantically in her chest while her head spun.
A sense of vulnerability and insecurity settled in her stomach, mixed with her almost irrepressible desire. After this huge step, she would not only have given her heart to Killian, also her body and her very soul. And that terrified the hell out of her. Old Emma would have run through the hills or turned the fact into just sex. This new Emma, however, after taking two deep breaths, forced herself to leave behind her insecurities and get the best out of this first night together. The prelude to the many that were to come, at least that was what she hoped.
Well, as long as her suspicions came true, of course. A thought crossed her mind just as she stood in front of her wardrobe choosing the outfit she would wear. Until now, showing a certain sense of selfishness, she had only taken into account her own feelings, but there were two people involved here, and the other person, Killian, also carried his own old demons. Maybe that was the reason, maybe he was also scared to offer her something that he hadn't offered since Milah.
Emma shook her head, blinking away all those thoughts and decided to let herself go. She would trust her instincts and Killian's reactions, without forcing anything. If tonight there was finally no sex between them, she could wait. She wasn't going anywhere.
Still, at the last moment, she decided to grab a backpack and put some toiletries and a change of clothes inside. It was Friday after all and, even if they didn't sleep together, at least they could continue with their Fringe marathon. Maybe she would fall asleep on the couch. It wouldn't be the first time. Would it be?
Friday, July 21, 2017
The sharp thud of the knife against the cutting board resounded in his kitchen, causing Killian to come out of his reverie and realize that he was perhaps exerting too much force in chopping the vegetables from the salad.
He should have known better. From the very beginning, everything about Emma had affected him in such a way to the point of feeling like a schoolboy sometimes and turning him into a bundle of nerves unable to control his emotions.
All the bravado displayed when he had suggested the plan for the night had gone out the window when the implications of what would happen washed over him. " Bloody hell ", he muttered to himself as he dragged his hand down his face and rubbed at the scruff on his jaw. He was a grown man, how on earth was he so affected by the idea of spending the night with a woman?
He had the answer, of course. Maybe he had tried to fool himself with poor excuses that masked the real reason why after three weeks of dating they hadn't yet had sex. The explanation he had offered to Emma was true. But there was another deeper meaning hidden behind that excuse, he had his own reasons for postponing the act. Even though his intention to keep moving on was firm, he was still far from reaching his destination. The fact that by the time he had finally gotten back his phone he had hidden it in a drawer without even checking out its contents was an indication of it.
He wanted to offer Emma something unique, something special and unforgettable. But for that to happen he needed that during their first time together there would be no ghosts of the past hunting them, hovering around the bedroom. He wanted to offer himself completely to Emma, without fissures, without uncertainty. She deserved it. And that state hadn't been achieved until now, when he had realized that all his thoughts were consumed by Emma. Her image was the first that came to mind when he woke up in the morning, her memory the last before closing his eyes and surrendering to sleep.
The ghost of that bloke, Walsh, was also hovering over him. No way did he want to be compared to such a despicable guy and he did not want to risk Emma getting the wrong idea either.
These three weeks had been real agony, as if he had decided to impose himself a kind of punishment by engaging in a frustrating and tortuous path. The innumerable cold showers he had taken throughout these days had been nothing more than a small relief to his almost constant state of agitation.
He could feel in all the fibers of his being that he was ready to take the next step, but that did not stop his insecurities from surfacing since this would be the first time he would sleep with a woman since Milah with feelings involved.
Because the truth was undeniable, he harbored deep feelings for Emma. He still didn't dare to put a name to them but they swirled inside, struggling to come to the surface even if it was in the form of a caress, a longing glance or a promising kiss, without him being able to stop them.
Other kinds of worries also boiled inside him. Far were the first years after Milah's death, when he had tried to drown his sorrows in alcohol and sex. He had realized gradually that the answer was not there, so even though alcohol had been a companion on more occasions than necessary, the female company had been spaced out in time. There had been no woman in his bed for quite some time, the last one, just before traveling to Ireland in November of the previous year. The fear of not measuring up, of not being able to offer Emma what she deserved was real.
The sound of someone knocking on the door made him flinch and almost cutting himself in the process. He dropped the knife between curses and forced himself to take a deep breath and let it out slowly in an attempt to calm his growing nervousness before opening the door.
At the last moment, before facing Emma, he decided that, whatever happened tonight, enjoying Emma's company would be more than enough for him. But this time, if she, who always seemed to be one step ahead in that regard, decided to keep moving forward, he not only wouldn't slow down her progress but would gladly encourage her to continue exploring.
All his doubts and insecurities disappeared the moment his eyes fell on Emma. She presented herself to him as a goddess wearing a simple sundress, her golden hair combed in a braid that fell over her shoulder. Her cheeks were colored by a slight rosy hue and her green eyes glowed in a special way as her lips drew a tempting smile, in clear invitation to be kissed.
But what really captivated him, causing his heart to flutter was the fact that she was carrying a backpack slung over her shoulder, implying, without needing words, that she was more than willing to spend the night. With him. Preferably in his bed. And maybe the next day too, at least if he had anything to say about it.
"Hi," she greeted him before brushing his lips with hers. He watched in awe as she passed by him in the direction of the kitchen, dropping the backpack on the couch on her way and perching herself onto one of the stools located next to the kitchen island, as if she owned the place. As if she belonged there. Well, where would the lie be? A special part of his heart already belonged to her.
"Oh thank God!" She blurted, noticing the sandwiches on the counter, waiting to be grilled. "I thought for a moment that you were going to prepare some of those recipes of yours with fish involved."
Her expression of disgust with a wrinkled nose and an adorable pout caused a chuckle bubbling in his throat. He approached the counter, taking up the task of chopping the vegetables for the salad. "I was tempted, but I had the suspicion that wouldn't be the most appropriate choice if I wanted this not to become a one-time thing."
"So you decided to seduce me with food instead, didn't you?" She teased him as she arched one of her perfect eyebrows, her tongue peeking to moisten her already luscious lips.
He pretended to remain focused on the salad but couldn't help but cast a sidelong glance at her. "Is it working?" He asked dropping his voice to a husky whisper. "Just wait to see the dessert I've prepared just thinking of you."
In answer, she got up and pounced on him, taking him by surprise as she caught his lips with hers in a demanding kiss. He was definitely going to get cut before finishing the bloody salad.
Before he could react, she pulled away from him, sporting a naughty smirk as she returned to her position on the stool. "For me to decide I have to try it first, don't you think?" She murmured, licking her lips again as if to prove her point. Bloody hell, her performance was not helping in the least to control his agitation. He swallowed hard, while his blood ran hot to the south, all the cells of his body craving for her. He had to close his eyes for a second, trying to calm down enough to avoid having his way with her right there, in the middle of the kitchen.
He hastened to finish the salad, placing the bowl in her hands. "And that's the plan, love, that you taste all the delights I've prepared for you. And now, would you be so kind as to bring that to the table?"
"Are you sure you don't need help here?" She offered through a smile that seemed innocent enough, but he didn't trust that she wouldn't continue to tempt him if she stayed with him in the kitchen.
"I'll go up in a bit, when I finish the sandwiches." He assured her with a dismissive wave of his hand. "Everything else is already set on the rooftop."
Her eyes widened as a flash of approval crossed her gaze. "So dinner on the rooftop, eh? I like the way you think." She said, as she walked away in the direction of the spiral staircase, the swaying of her hips perhaps too suggestive for her own good.
When she disappeared from his sight, he clenched his jaw, directing his gaze to the ceiling in an attempt to summon enough self-control to finish the dinner without incident. The siren he had as a girlfriend was certainly making it difficult for him.
Killian arrived at the roof a few minutes later, holding the plates with the grilled cheese sandwiches. He found that Emma was already sitting in one of the garden chairs, while gazing appreciatively at everything around her.
She wore a peaceful expression, matching the quiet night that had already fallen on Boston. The place looked impressive, honestly. He congratulated himself for having achieved just what was he was looking for. The only source of light came from various candles and lanterns distributed along the balcony, creating an intimate atmosphere. A fresh, summery scent from the many plants in his private garden surrounded them. No sound, no outside glance could interrupt their dinner. There was just the two of them and the endless feelings dancing between them.
To his relief, dinner was a success. They seemed to have reached a non-verbal agreement to temporarily park the evident sexual tension emanating from them and instead they just enjoyed the delicious food while keeping a fluent conversation peppered with smiles and knowing glances. He still was surprised that they felt so comfortable in each other's company. Maybe the month of the pact, while they built their friendship without pressure, just getting to know each other, it had served its purpose so that now there was no awkwardness flitting between them.
When it was time for dessert, Killian insisted that Emma remain relaxed on the rooftop, but she rejected the idea immediately, alluding that she had to see with her own eyes if "that dessert of yours is so worth it."
He should have suspected that Emma would find a pleasurable way of waiting for the cakes to be baked. Actually, he couldn't blame Emma entirely, since from the moment he closed the oven door he turned around and they both met halfway, their lips fusing together.
Only when the timer started ringing, announcing that the dessert was ready, they managed to detach from each other, the intense chocolate aroma emanating from the oven reaching their nostrils at that time. Emma closed her eyes for a moment as she inhaled deeply, a soft sound sliding between her lips, as if she was already savoring the cake. When she opened her eyes again, she stared at him with a fire in her emerald gaze that immediately made his blood run hot.
He had to swallow hard, resisting the temptation to grab her and kiss her senselessly, to hell with the cakes. Later , he thought as he forced himself away from temptation and turned his attention to the oven. He had spent a lot of time elaborating the recipe and would be disappointed if the result wasn't what he expected, so he held his breath while unmolding the cakes, feeling the scrutiny of Emma's gaze on him.
"Oh my god, you've baked chocolate lava cakes, haven't you?" When Killian looked up he found that Emma's face had lit up, her lips drawing a giant smile. He couldn't help but smile too, marveling at Emma Swan's complexity. A minute before she was showing off all her power of seduction and the next minute she acted like a little girl receiving a birthday present.
Until now he had only witnessed some glimpses of the previous Emma, the lonely woman who protected her heart fiercely, erecting walls difficult to climb. But he had managed to see what was behind those walls almost from the beginning. The fact that, in a way, he was contributing to these walls disappearing, showing this wonderful woman, was a source of pride for him, although he also harbored some responsibility. But if he had to spend hours in the kitchen making a dessert for her to give him that bright smile and that sparkle in the eyes, so be it.
"There's only one way to find out." Killian winked at her as he offered her a teaspoon. She bit her bottom lip, looking around, as if deciding whether she stayed there or not. Then she grabbed the spoon and plate and hurried toward the stairs.
"Hurry up, I don't want it to cool and ruin the effect." Emma urged him, before climbing up and disappearing from sight. He, of course, followed her. He would always follow her.
The cake was delicious, that dessert was one of his specialties for a reason, after all. Emma seemed to think the same, at least that implied her expression, as she watched in awe how the liquid chocolate escaped through the crack formed by the spoon, reaching the plate. A soft moan slid between her lips as she closed her eyes savoring the chocolate, causing a chill to run down his spine. She was going to be the death of him even before they had the chance to move to his bedroom.
"One of these days I'm going to record you making those sounds while you eat. It's funny how they could be understood in a quite different way if someone doesn't know the context." The words escaped his lips before he had time to process them, but given Emma's reaction, he did not regret it at all.
Even in the gloom, he noticed how her cheeks flushed, but, far from looking embarrassed, she gave him a seductive look from under her lashes as she brought the empty spoon to her lips and licked the remains of the chocolate. Next, she simply shrugged, as she replied in a sensual tone, her low voice full of intention. "I can't help it, chocolate is one of my great pleasures, as you may have guessed. But I will try to keep quiet next time."
"Don't even think about it, Swan." He almost growled. If chocolate was one of Emma's great pleasures, one of his own was to watch her little gestures and sounds. He would never tire of continuing to discover all the pieces of the wonderful puzzle that she represented.
They managed to finish the dessert without any other interruption. When Emma offered to help him clear the table, he refused, alluding that she was the guest of honor and that she should take advantage of those moments to relax enjoying the magnificent night outside. Emma reluctantly agreed. Still, it was clear that she felt at ease, at least the way she settled into her seat indicated it.
Once the kitchen was cleaned, he returned to the upper floor, his skin tingling in anticipation of what was to come. The image he found reminded him immediately of the first time Emma had spent the night in his apartment, when he had found her the next day at that very spot.
She held the same position this time, leaning on the railing, her head slightly turned, allowing him to observe her profile, her gaze lost somewhere in the darkness of the night, her lips drawing a smile of contentment. She was breathtaking.
As on that occasion, he approached her and wrapped her from behind, resting his chin on her shoulder. Her back arched at the moment she felt his presence, while her hands moved to seek his arms and tighten the embrace.
"I love this balcony." Emma murmured as she rested her head against his chest. "I would be happy living here, even without a bed."
He was aware that she was just joking but the mere thought that this could come true in the near future caused a strange sensation in his heart, something like longing. He blinked away those thoughts, leaving them for another time and decided to play along.
"In fact, there's a pullout bed in the studio next to the rooftop, love."
"Uhm, tempting, but the bathroom is downstairs, too far away. A pity."
"Besides, while I've not been able to experience it until now, I suspect that winter in Boston is not the most suitable season to live in the open." Killian realized the meaning of his words when he noticed how Emma tensed slightly under his embrace. It was true, he hadn't yet spent any winter here, always traveling to Ireland during the colder months. A sense of uneasiness settled in his stomach due to the fact that in a few months he would have to leave the city again to travel and meet his family. But there was still time for worrying about that, they would cross that bridge when they both arrived. That was an agreement between her and him from the moment they started their relationship, to take advantage of the moment, not to let their future expectations dictate how they should live their present.
"Do you know one of the things I like the most about your rooftop?" Emma's soft voice brought him back to reality. She continued without waiting for an answer. "Privacy. Nobody can see or hear us."
"I guess we should take advantage of that, shouldn't we?" Killian muttered before beginning to sprinkle the exposed skin of her neck and collarbone with light kisses, his lips leaving a path of goosebumps in their wake. Emma's response was immediate, to his delight. She turned around and, grabbing his shirt, she pulled him close, her lips capturing his in a searing kiss.
He was a goner from that moment on, too consumed by her kisses, her essence, the feeling of her warm body pressed against his. While trying to comply with her demanding lips, he lost track of time and space to the point that he wasn't even aware of moving into the studio and sitting on the couch with Emma straddling his lap.
They devoured each other as if there were no tomorrow, their hands were everywhere, her hips moving over him and exerting a delicious friction that was driving him crazy with need.
He wouldn't have minded giving in to passion right there, in the gloom of the studio, while the soft breeze of the night crept through the open door to the rooftop. But he had other plans that basically meant worshiping Emma's body for endless hours, under the shelter of his sheets, in his own bed.
Displaying an entire exercise of self-control, he managed to separate his lips from hers for a moment, searching her gaze while cupping her cheek with one hand. "Emma, love, we..." His voice trailed off when Emma ignored him, nipping his lower lip lightly instead as she moved her hips against his evident arousal. He couldn't help a growing groan from deep in his chest, but he tried again. "We need to move." He breathed against her swollen lips.
"I don't want to move." She mumbled, a shadow of disappointment crossed her gaze, as if she anticipated that her advances would be stopped once more. He realized at that moment that it might have been a mistake to wait these three weeks without giving her an honest explanation, which might have led to her getting the wrong idea. He needed to get her out of her mistake. "I need... I would prefer if we continue this in a more comfortable place."
She stared at him through narrowed eyes, her brow furrowed, as if she was trying to discern his true intentions. He decided to act to make it clear that he didn't have the faintest intention of leaving things that way. His hand slid down from the back of her head to the small of her back, looking for that part of her anatomy that he found so delectable, even covered by clothes. He pressed, drawing her close so that she could note how very interested he was in continuing.
She was a vision just like that, a moan escaping between her lips, a soft blush adorning her neck and cheeks, her heavy breathing causing her chest to move in a distracting way. But what fascinated him the most, was the fire in her eyes, he could lose himself in the intense green sea of her gaze. To his relief, she seemed to understand the message as her lips drew the ghost of a smile. "I'm pretty comfortable here."
"Aye, but we can get even more comfortable." He insisted, though his resolve weakened at times. He cradled her head with his other hand and tugged her lips to his to keep savoring her, something to which he had already become addicted. She moaned again against his lips, angling her head to allow him deeper.
After a few seconds —or maybe minutes, he wasn't sure, his mind too clouded with lust— it was Emma who decided to break the kiss, her eyes sparkling with a playful glow. "What happened to your idea of looking for something unique? Because I find the bed quite traditional and a bit boring, to be honest."
"That's because you haven't shared a bed with me yet, Swan. So, what do you say? Are you willing to find out if my bed and the activities we develop in it fulfill your expectations of originality?" He suggested lowering his tone to a sensual whisper.
He must have sounded convincing, at least that's what he assumed from the expression she wore, biting her lower lip as she arched one of her eyebrows. "Okay, take me to bed, Jones."
"I would gladly carry you, but I don't want to risk tripping while we go down the stairs."
She giggled, really giggled, before getting up and offering her hand, pulling him then and leading the way, as it used to happen lately. He, of course, obliged.
Once in the shelter of his bedroom, they took things more calmly, sharing languid kisses while their hands began their first tentative explorations on their bodies. Her mouth molded so perfectly to his that he could spend hours doing just that, savoring her soft lips, letting himself be intoxicated by her scent, feeling her teeth playfully nibble on his lower lip.
Emma grew impatient, since, after one last kiss, she turned around in his arms, offering him a sinful glance over her shoulder. "I may need help with the zipper." Her soft and seductive voice causing him to feel his pants getting tighter.
As the zipper of the dress descended, he got a glimpse of her underwear, making his desire to taste her creamy skin more urgent, the tingling of his fingers craving to touch and feel the warmth that emanated from her. Before turning around and facing him again, she let the dress slip down, pooling at her feet.
He breathed out on a shaky exhale when his eyes finally settled on her almost naked figure but he barely had time to extend his arm to caress her perfect curves, since Emma's lips were on his in an instant, as he reached for his t-shirt and pulled on it in a gesture not too subtle for him to take it off.
Once they stripped each other, their clothes scattered all over the room, he gently pushed her down and made her lie on the bed. He took a moment to appreciate her body, the corners of his lips rising slightly as the memory of a photograph came to mind.
"You're stunning, Swan." He leaned in, covering her body with his and leaving a trail of kisses from the line of her jaw to her neck. "Do you remember the picture you sent me with you in that bathtub?" He lifted his head, seeking her gaze. Emma did not answer, but her cheeks blushed even more, her bottom lip caught between her teeth. She remembered, of course. "I haven't been able to get that image out of my head since then. Trying to imagine what would be hidden behind those bubbles has driven me crazy." His voice came in a raspy tone before he put back his mouth to better use.
"Have I exceeded your expectations?" She murmured, her warm breath caressing his lips.
"Indeed." He barely lifted his lips to mumble his answer and then returned to his task of kissing her senselessly.
She had other plans, though. Breaking the kiss, she cupped his cheek with one hand, locking her eyes with his. She had that expression on her face, her lips drawing the ghost of a grin, a challenging flash crossing her gaze. "And are you going to do something about it?"
"Aye." His whole body hummed in anticipation, while he was unable to hide the lust in his voice. "Would you allow me to touch you, Emma? To taste you?"
"Where?"
"Everywhere."
Her head nodded frantically giving him the permission he needed. From there, he became a man with a mission; his goal, to enhance every drop of pleasure Emma has.
For the next few minutes he devoted himself to touch, to taste, to explore and worship her body the way she deserved, using his hands, his teeth, his tongue and getting her to vibrate under his touch, the delicious sounds that escaped from her mouth causing his level of arousal to rise until it was almost painful, leaving him in need of an urgent release. The moment she came undone, uttering his name on a trembling exhale, he knew he had fulfilled his goal, a wave of satisfaction and pride washing over him.
But the night had not ended there, in fact, it had only just begun, at least that's what Emma's actions implied when she came down from her high, her breathing still heavy, her lips swollen, and a penetrating gaze with the ability to take his breath away. She pulled him towards her for a kiss, while her hands ran up and down his back.
He needed her, he needed to feel her on a deeper level or his desire would end up combusting him. She seemed to understand, helping him put on the proper protection, his movements somewhat clumsy at first, causing them to share a funny moment, easing the tension. "I'm sorry love, I may be a bit out of practice."
"That's not the way it seemed in your previous performance." She assured him through a grin. "Come here. Let's practice a bit more."
Only when he positioned himself between her legs did he realize that the delay of three weeks had been worth it, that they had managed to make nothing and nobody cloud their magical moment. His heart tightened in his chest at the thought that he should perhaps feel guilty for having developed such intense feelings and because now Emma was the one who occupied all his thoughts. But deep down, he knew that Milah would approve what was about to happen. She would have wanted him to be happy and, in fact, he was about to burst with happiness.
"Killian?" Emma's voice came to his ears with a slight hint of concern. A crease between her brows and an inquisitive look made him see that he had remained absorbed for too long. The time to take action had arrived.
She was all that mattered now. His lips drew a soothing smile in order to remove any trace of worry from her beautiful face. Only when she smiled back, cheering him up without words, did he lean in search of her lips at the same moment he slid inside her.
He stifled a moan as their bodies fused together, feeling her warmth envelop him, his heart beating frantically and threatening to come out of his chest. He wasn't used to such sensations running through his veins, all his muscles tensed, overwhelmed by the emotions. He buried his face in Emma's hair, needing a few seconds before beginning to move.
Once he was able to regain control over his body, he set a new goal, bringing Emma to ecstasy once more. It was then when they began to move in synchrony, enjoying the pleasure of skin against skin, their bodies molded to each other as if they had been created for that purpose.
He had been aware from the beginning that what would happen in his bed wouldn't be just sex, but it was one thing to think about it and quite another to feel it in all the fibers of his being causing a kind of vertigo, his head spinning to the certainty that they were making love, although the word was still too big to even think about.
Their movements were full of passion, her demanding lips never leaving his. He tried to comply with each kiss, but he wasn't satisfied with just tasting her mouth, his lips brushing any patch of skin that his movements allowed to reach, her neck, her collarbone, her chest, while he let himself be intoxicated by the indescribable feeling of having such a goddess beneath him.
She also showed that she knew what she wanted, her hands were everywhere, although she seemed to have a predilection for his back. The way she stroked that part of his anatomy was driving him crazy. She could go from a subtle touch with her fingertips to an almost painful trace with her nails.
At one point, when he felt the pull of the impending climax approaching, he grabbed her hand, moving it over her head and intertwining her fingers with his. It was like this, with their mouths fused together drowning out their respective moans, how they found sweet release. In that precise moment, when he was still panting, unable to move, the adrenaline rushing high in his veins, he had the absolute certainty that he would live to bring pleasure to this wonderful woman in every possible way.
"It's not that I'm complaining, because I clearly am not, but will you ever tell me the real reason why we've waited so long to have... to sleep together?"
His brain was unable at first to process Emma's words. They were huddled side by side in his bed, her head resting on his shoulder, while her fingers traced delicate patterns on his bare stomach, their lower limbs tangled together.
After their amorous activities, he had entered in such a state of bliss and relaxation that he felt almost like he was floating while his eyelids became heavy to the point where he was about to doze.
Emma's voice activated his senses again, but his mind was still a little clouded, so he took his time before answering. Indeed, there didn't seem to be any trace of complaint in her voice, rather curiosity. Killian took a deep breath letting out the air slowly and then he decided to offer her an honest answer. She didn't deserve less.
"I just wanted to be sure there weren't any demons from the past wandering around us, that's all." He placed a soft kiss on her hair, trusting that his answer was enough.
Emma slowed the movement of her fingers on his skin for a brief moment, while he held his breath, but, to his relief, then she continued with her traces, while she replied with a single word. "Good."
"Besides, I remembered that bloke, Walsh, and I didn't want you to draw the wrong conclusion." His words came out of his mouth without he could do anything to stop them. What was wrong with him, bringing another man to the conversation while he lay with a woman in his bed?
Emma lifted her head looking for his gaze. "Do you remember?"
"I remember everything you've told me, darling, even though I still didn't know you in person or didn't even know what you looked like."
How was it possible that Emma had that look of disbelief on her face? As if it were hard for her to believe that someone could have such an interest in her. It was evident that he must work more in that regard and that, like him, although Emma was doing an impressive job in her attempt to open up to others, she still had a long way to go. He was sure that they would accompany each other in their paths. At least he had no intention of leaving her side at any time soon, both physically and metaphorically speaking.
Her expression changed subtly, a soft smile pulling at her lips, but then her brows furrowed. "Don't ever even mention that asshole. You both are not comparable and I wasn't really worried, not at least in that aspect."
"Good." He parroted her earlier response, his stomach fluttering at the passion she put in her words, even if it was to throw a scolding at him. Then he pulled her to him again, his fingers tangled in her curls, as she resumed her task of caressing him.
Soon, he felt the sleepiness begin to invade him again. He had already decided to surrender to it by embracing Emma in his arms, when something put him on alert again. Suddenly, Emma's weight on him disappeared, causing a wave of irrational panic to meddle him at the thought that she was leaving his bed.
Impulsively, he reached out his arm and captured her wrist, slowing her movement. "Stay." He hated the vulnerability in his voice, using a single word as a plea. "Stay." He repeated with a firmer tone. She stopped her progress but kept her back to him, so he thought frantically of some reason that would make her stay. "If you come back to bed I'll make you breakfast tomorrow, and you already know my cooking skills."
This time he did get a reaction from Emma. She turned her head, looking at him over her shoulder, her face showing an impenetrable expression. "Are you trying to seduce me with the food again?"
"Is it working?"
Only when her face split into a giant grin, was he able to let out the breath he had been holding.
"Always."
He offered her his hand and when she accepted, he pulled her towards him, both returning to their original positions. Sleep seemed to have abandoned him, though. He had already begun to resign himself to the fact that he would barely get to rest tonight, but having someone like Emma by his side, who needed to sleep? Indeed, the calm did not last long. Emma raised her head again, a mischievous smile adorning her features. "Just for the record, I wasn't going anywhere, I just needed to use the bathroom."
"Bad form love," he muttered in a rough voice, as he pulled her closer, her golden curls brushing against his cheek, "taking advantage of a poor man desperate not to be alone. Should I punish you?"
"Is that…" she trailed off, a breathy moan slipping between her lips while his fingers slowly traveled along her spine, "... a promise?"
A low groan blossomed deep in his chest, "you're going to be the death of me," he murmured before capturing her lips with his and surrendering to her once more.
Saturday, July 22, 2017
When Emma woke up the next morning the sun was already shining high in the sky, the soft morning light seeping through the window and illuminating the bedroom, causing Emma to remain reluctant to open her eyes just yet.
Her mind was still clouded by the vestiges of sleep, making her feel a little bewildered at first and with the need to snuggle, seeking refuge in the cool sheets in contact with her skin.
Gradually, as her mind cleared, she began to be aware of her surroundings. The moment her brain processed the fact that she didn't own such soft sheets, reality came in waves hitting her hard.
Of course, she was not in her bed, nor in her bedroom. A swirl of mixed feelings seized her as the memories of the previous night gathered in her head. She couldn't prevent a blush from crawling from her neck, making her cheeks burn, feeling somewhat embarrassed, something unusual in her with regard to such activities. Maybe the reason was that she wasn't used to waking up in the very bed in which they had carried out an intense, mind-blowing sex session just a few hours ago.
"Oh god." She covered her face with her hands while her stubborn mind insisted on repeating, again and again, the top moments of the night, making the blush of her cheeks increase, and also, a new wave of desire beginning to run through her veins.
She instinctively reached out her hand to the other side of the bed, finding it empty, something that did not surprise her, since Killian had previously informed her that he needed to get up early that Saturday morning. Still, a tug of disappointment settled in her stomach. But maybe it's better that way, she told herself. All this was so new to her that waking up with someone huddled by her side might have been like too much.
After letting out a deep breath, she stretched out on the bed, feeling her body slightly sore in the right places. An unstoppable smile of satisfaction bloomed on her face as she reached for her phone to check the time. The smile widened when, in addition to her phone, she found a handwritten note on the nightstand.
Good morning, my sleeping beauty. I apologize for having been forced to leave the bed so soon, but, as I had already told you, some clients wanted to watch the sunrise from the sea, so who am I to deny them such pleasure? Still, I'll be home in time to prepare the promised breakfast. Yours, Killian.
Two aspects caught her attention as she read the note. First, the deliberate use of possessives on two occasions and second, the word home and its implications. Maybe this wasn't her apartment, but he had made it clear that he was going back home, to her. She anticipated the arrival of panic, or the need to run away at the intensity of the feelings blossoming inside her, but, far from that, where before her heart would have tightened with fear, now it fluttered with anticipation. She really couldn't wait to see him and, above all, feel him again.
After placing the note on the table again she grabbed the phone. There was something important that she had to do. She opened the chat window with Ruby and started typing.
ES: We can now add 'God in bed' to Killian's list
The response of her friend was immediate.
Ruby: Yay! I knew it! Lucky girl, I envy you right now. I want all the details!
A chuckle bubbled in her throat at the shamelessness of her friend. In no way was she going to confess her intimacies, she might have opened up to others, but not to that extent. Even so, knowing that someone was out there interested in her caused a warm feeling to spread through her body.
ES: I'm not telling you anything, Ruby. Just suffice to say that I have every intention of continuing to practice throughout the weekend.
Ruby: Ouch, you're not funny. Anyway, enjoy the rest of the sex weekend. See you soon.
It was still early, at least for a Saturday morning. Emma deduced that Killian would still take a while to come back, so she needed to find a distraction while waiting for him. Although she was reluctant to leave the bed, she finally made the decision to crawl into the bathroom and take a shower.
The warm shower turned out to be a wise decision, the spray of water falling over her acting as a balm, although the water would also drag the vestiges of Killian's essence that still lingered on her skin. She was tempted for a moment to apply his shampoo, in order to keep his scent for a little longer, but finally decided to use her own, knowing in advance that Killian was quite fond of the vanilla scent, of her hair in general. Emma did not miss that he took advantage of the slightest opportunity to tangle his fingers in her curls, leave soft kisses on the top of her head or simply bring his nose close and inhale.
The shower had taken longer than she had thought at first since, when she came out, she perceived the unmistakable aroma of the bacon coming from the kitchen, causing her stomach to growl and her heart to skip a beat. Killian had arrived.
She hastened to towel off, untangle her hair, and get dressed, opting to wear only tiny panties and the famous Fringe t-shirt, which she had finally got two weeks ago.
Then she walked silently to the kitchen, finding Killian in front of the stove, his back to her, wearing only sweatpants and bare-chested. That meant he had changed clothes when he got home, which implied that, on his way to his bedroom, he would have passed in front of the bathroom door while she was inside, he just would have needed to open the door and... Stop! A flurry of heat flowed to Emma's core, as she bit her lower lip, holding back a groan. Breakfast. She needed to focus on breakfast and on her hungry stomach.
Still, that didn't stop her from slipping in quietly until she was just behind Killian. If he noticed her presence he didn't show it, since he continued with his task while humming in a low voice. Unable to resist any longer, she put her arms around him from behind, resting her head and her hair still damp on his back. A chill ran down her spine the moment her hands came into contact with his bare chest.
"Mmmm, something smells delicious."
Killian chuckled, the muscles of his chest moving under Emma's touch. "Wait to take a bite, they'll taste even better."
"I'm not talking about pancakes, I mean bacon." Without waiting for an answer, she approached the counter and grabbed a piece of bacon from the plate set there, bringing it to her mouth.
It was then when Killian's head turned, an arched eyebrow and an amusing expression on his face. "Bad form, love, stealing food while the other person is focused on getting the pancakes do not burn." He pointed at her with the spatula while winking. "I've always known there was a little pirate in you."
"Turn your head Jones, and do not get distracted." She faked a bossy tone, frowning as she made the gesture of turning around with her hand. "I'm still waiting for my promised breakfast, the bacon is just an advance." To prove her point, she bit the bacon again and licked her lips to savor it.
"So demanding, Swan."
"But you like it." She smirked at him as she perched on the kitchen island directly in front of him, from where she had the best access to continuing watching Killian. "I'm hungry, keep going."
He ignored her for a moment, his gaze scanning her body from top to bottom as if assessing whether to dash to capture his prey or not. Finally, his eyes traveled upwards, focusing on hers and directing her a penetrating gaze that shouted silently 'later'. He licked his lips before tilting his head slightly. "As you wish." And then he turned around and resumed his task.
Emma enjoyed herself with the sight in front of her, with his broad shoulders, his narrow waist, the movement of his muscles as he worked, the way the sweatpants hung loosely from his hips... She suppressed the urge to send the breakfast and pancakes to hell and reach for those pants, now that she knew what was hidden under them. The mere idea made her mouth water and not just for the food.
Emma was unprepared for Killian to turn around unexpectedly holding a plate full of pancakes, "Your breakfast is ready, milady." He offered with an exaggerated bow. She realized at that moment that her mouth hung open, so she forced herself to press her lips together and focus her gaze on... the plate of pancakes. Too late. "See something you like, Swan?" The bastard smirked at her before approaching her with a predatory expression on his face.
Before Emma could react, he set the plate of pancakes on the counter, far enough away from her, and then reached for her.
"Good Morning." He murmured, his lips only inches from hers, circling her waist and pulling her to him.
"Hi," She managed to mumble, placing her arms around his neck, while a warm sensation spread all over her body, her stomach fluttering in anticipation. "I missed you this morning."
"Aye, love, me too." His lips came even closer to hers, without touching them. "Well, it's time to make up for the wait, isn't it?" Without waiting for her response, he finally offered her what she was craving, capturing her lips with his.
They continued like this for the next few minutes, the food completely forgotten, and instead, satiating their hunger for each other. His hands began to wander over her body, while he hummed in appreciation against her lips when he noticed that she had not bothered to put on the bra. "Even though I'm fond of that lovely t-shirt you wear, I'd rather see you without it." He growled while helping her to take it off with a fluid movement, leaving her bare torso to match him.
Even though her mind was clouded by desire, she found a glimmer of lucidity that she used to tease him. "So this is going to be the typical pre-breakfast sex session?" Killian ignored her, his scruff rubbing against the sensitive skin of her neck. Emma bit her lip in an attempt to suppress a moan and continued speaking in a seductive whisper. "You disappoint me, Jones. First, you go with the classic missionary position for our first time and now the cliché of sex in the kitchen. What happened to your idea of unique and special moments?"
"I didn't hear you complain about rounds two and three." He mumbled, hot puffs of air sending goosebumps down her skin. "But if you prefer, we can move our activities to a place that meets your standards of originality, like the rooftop, maybe?"
"Nah, maybe later. Come here, Jones, we still have several places to try in this apartment of yours." She drew him to herself pressing his chest against hers and enjoying the delicious friction of the hair of his torso against her delicate skin. Definitely, she could get used to this new way of enjoying Saturday mornings.
They spent the rest of the weekend in company with each other, much of that time in his apartment, exploring their bodies and discovering new forms of pleasure, their level of intimacy becoming even more intense. But they not only devoted themselves to enjoying fantastic sex, they also had time to get out of their particular bubble and socialize with their friends.
On Saturday afternoon Emma accompanied Killian to one of his practices to teach small kids to sail. Later, they met with Belle and Will to hang out for a while. When they returned to Killian's apartment hours later they resumed the task of continuing to enjoy each other.
On Sunday morning Emma did wake up with a warm body beside her on the bed. Contrary to what she had thought at first, feeling someone curled up next to her with a protective arm on her waist, far from appearing too much, caused her a feeling of contentment unknown until now, while she longed to wake up like this every morning— forever.
They had their usual brunch with Mary Margaret, David, and little Leo. This time, Graham and Merida, who had finally started dating, also joined them. She found this facet of socializing with other people more and more satisfying, something unexpected for her, but at least that was a sign that she was still on the right path of opening her heart completely.
They even had time to make a video call with Liam, Elsa, and the kids. This wasn't the first time she had participated in these calls since they had started dating. In addition, her level of affinity with Elsa had increased over the weeks and they chatted from time to time even if neither of the two Jones brothers were present. What differentiated this occasion from the previous ones was that she was dressed casually, with her hair pulled back in a loose bun, giving clear signs that she had spent the day—and the night— there. Elsa already knew of their plan in advance, of course, but Emma did not miss the look of appreciation that she directed at her.
Although Emma tried to extend her stay in Killian's apartment, on Sunday evening she resigned herself to returning to her own apartment. She needed a change of clothes and rest a whole night to go back to work the next day. Even so, when Killian accompanied her to the doorway, she still remained reluctant to leave. Killian was not going to make things easy for her, apparently.
"Are you sure you have to leave? Can I tempt you again with breakfast or something more special?" He practically purred his words, his warm breath caressing her lips.
Her resolve weakened at times, but she held her ground. "I have to rest, and something tells me that if I stayed I wouldn't get the rest I need. My boyfriend is quite insatiable, you know?"
Killian tilted his head, his eyes darting to her lips. "It's funny, because my girlfriend is also quite insatiable. I think they would like each other, wouldn't they?"
Emma hummed in agreement. "Maybe you're right."
"Anyway, I think that boyfriend of yours is a lucky guy." Emma lost herself for a moment in the intensity of his gaze charged with something akin to reverence. After letting out a deep breath, she brushed his lips with her own and walked away before falling into temptation.
"I am the lucky one, believe me." It was the last thing she said before turning and starting to walk down the corridor.
"Text me when you get home, please."
Emma turned her head slightly towards him and nodded silently. When she resumed her way she did it with a wide smile on her face and a sense of happiness spreading through her body.
I just got home.
Good;) By the way, how am I supposed to sleep now? Your vanilla perfume is everywhere, Swan.
Change the sheets?
Over my dead body!
How dramatic...
But you like it.
Maybe...
Sweet dreams.
I'm sure yours —if you get to sleep—will be sweet, indeed, sprinkled with a little bit of vanilla.
You're a bloody siren.
But you like it.
I do.
Even though the screen had gone blank, Emma stared at the phone for a few seconds, feeling the weight of the device on her hands. She sometimes had to shake her head at the feeling that this little device, or rather its predecessor, the one she had lost, had been the cause of her finding Killian. A sense of vertigo seized her as she thought what would have happened had she not lost the phone, had she not entered that cafe, and stolen Killian's phone by accident... Her life now would continue to be the miserable life she was used to. Instead, now she had a promising future ahead of her, something unthinkable until now.
Her brows furrowed when another thought, also related to the phone, crossed her mind. Even though it had been two weeks since he had retrieved his phone, he hadn't made any intention of using it again. He never carried it with him and wasn't in sight in his apartment either.
It was something strange in a way, since that phone had been the cause of bringing them together in the first place and was also quite more expensive than the one he had acquired at the airport. Her heart tightened in her chest as she wondered what would be the reason, sensing that there was a deep meaning behind it. Emma had the suspicion that the motive was not in the device itself, but rather in its content.
Before going to sleep, she took a mental note, she would ask Killian when she had the chance. He had helped her on so many levels to come out of her shell that the least she could do was help him to move on and overcome his past once and for all.
So, there was one more part planned initially for this chapter, but I thought that, since it has been a fluffy one, that final angsty section wouldn't fit here, so I decided to leave it for the next chapter...
Thanks for reading, I'd like to know what you all think. :)