Chapter 4
Chapter 4
***NC-17***

As the morning sun drifted across the floor of Zander's loft, he awoke by the sound of the buzzing that came from the alarm that sat on the night stand by the bed. He reached with his free hand and turned it off, as he looked at the clock that read 6 am. Still half asleep he glanced over and noticed the sleeping beauty that lay next to him. He didn't want to wake her, as he leaned over and kissed her lightly on her lips. She flinched just a bit as she felt his lips touch hers. "Good morning beautiful" he said as she opened her eyes slightly. The morning sun was brightly shining in through the windows of the loft and it took her some time for her to realize where she had been sleeping all night. "Good morning, Zander..what time is it?" she asked as she pulled the covers over her bare legs. "It's 6 o'clock...I gotta get ready for work, you know Sonny looks down at tardiness." Zander replied with a grin. She watched him as he slipped from underneath the sheets, as he stood in the rays of the sunlight in only his boxers and she remembered what a romantic night they had together. She lay naked underneath the silk sheets of the queen size bed and was just in au of his strong presence as he walked across the room to the kitchen area. "Do you want to use the shower first, or shall I" Zander asked as he poured a glass of juice for himself and Emily. "Why don't we pick up where we left off last night...your shower's big enough for two ain't it?" Emily replied with a flirtatious tone.

Zander started walked back towards the bed where Emily lay waiting for him, he remembered the passion they shared last night after she said yes to his proposal. It was a night neither of them would forget. "So you think both of us could fit in that shower together.." he said with a devilish grin. "Why don't you go in and start the shower..I'll be right in.." Emily said as she sat up in the bed, pulling the sheet up over her chest. "Alright, but don't be long..." Zander replied as he gave her a wink. She watched him as he made his way into the bathroom just a few feet from the bed. She wanted so badly to make him happy, she wanted to be a good wife to him and a good mother to the children they would have. She was so deeply in love with him, he was the air that she breathed, he was her life.

She sat and glared at the ring on her left ring finger for what seemed like hours, when she heard the phone ringing. "Zander, should I get that?...she yelled to him. She figured he didn't hear her since she heard the shower was still running. As the phone rang now for the second time, she contemplated about picking it up. No one could know that she was here, but wait the only person who knew about the loft was Sonny, so she quickly reached over his side of the bed and answered it.

"Hello..." she said as she held the receiver to her ear. "Is Zander around..." the voice on the other end replied. The voice sounded like Sonny but she wasn't quite sure. "Sonny is that you calling this early.." Sonny didn't have a habit of getting up before 8 and it seemed odd that he would call Zander. "Yeah, Emily..it's me..I was calling to see if you two might have some good cheer to spread around Port Charles this morning." Sonny replied with a little chuckle. By the tone of his voice he knew all about last night, Zander must of asked for some man to man advice. Zander trusted Sonny, he looked up to Sonny. "Yyou knew about this all along...didn't you?...You knew Zander was going to propose last night?" "Alright...ya got me!...Yeah I knew and I just wanted to express my congratulations to both of you." "Well thank you, you have been so wonderful to both Zander and I, we don't know where we would be without you." There was a short pause of silence on the other end of the conversation.. "Sonny, you still there..." she asked with a worried tone in her voice. "Yeah, hon I'm still here..." he replied as she heard him speaking with someone else. "Emily..tell Zander that he has the day off today...the two of you deserve the day to be together and enjoy each other for a little while." "Thanks, I'll tell him...uh, Sonny.." "Yeah Emily..." he replied as she heard Zander come out of the bathroom. "Thank you...for everything." "You are so welcome, Emily...you take good care of him now, ya hear?" "I will, and thank you again....bye" "Bye" Sonny replied as she hung up the receiver.

As she turned around, Zander came up behind her and laid beside her on the bed. "Who was that on the phone?" he asked as she noticed all he was wearing was a plush blue towel...his skin still had water droplets streaming down his biceps. "Oh, Sonny called and sent his congratulations..also to let you know that you have the day off today.." "What I got the day off?" he said as a smile came over his face. "Hey I thought you were gonna join me in the shower..." "Well, I got tired of waiting so...." "Are you up for another one..." Emily replied as she slipped out from under the silk sheets. Zander watched her as she walked in front him and moved so effortlessly across the hardwood floor towards the bathroom. "Are you coming or am I going to have come over there and get you.." Emily said with a playful tone has she pointed to him with her index finger beckoning him to come. "Well, sweetheart, you don't have to ask me twice..lead the way.." he replied as he dropped the towel as he walked towards her. She couldn't help but to stare at his stone chiseled body as he drew near. He noticed she was staring as he passed by her and walked into the bathroom. She followed and closed the door behind her.

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Emily couldn't resist coming back to the loft after her late morning exams. She felt like she finally had a place to call home. She had been so excited about the engagement she couldn't resist the temptation of telling Elizabeth about it. She had stopped off at Kelly's before going back to Zander so she could tell someone, she had to tell Elizabeth, they were best friends, besides she was about to burst if didn't. Elizabeth couldn't be more happier with the news about the engagement, and Emily had told her not to mention it to anyone. Her and Zander wanted to tell her parents, and she didn't want them hearing about this from someone else.

Emily made her way back to Zander's loft and climbed the back stairs to the door. She noticed a note taped to the door from Sonny. She wondered then if Zander was even home, cause why would Sonny just leave a note, unless no one was home. She knocked on the door and waited for Zander to answer. It took him a few minutes to respond to her knocking, but his face was just what she needed to see. The final exams were torture and she certainly had a lot on her mind. She needed an escape from the world that lied outside the door.

"So, how did the exams go?.." Zander asked as she threw her back pack on the chair. "Fine..they went fine." she replied as she sat down on the sofa. "Here this was taped to the door, it looks like it's from Sonny.." she said as Zander read the note and stuffed into his pocket. Emily didn't want to ask about the note, if he wanted her to know, he'd tell her what it was about. "So what do want to do?" she asked as sat down beside her. "Well, I was hoping we could talk about things.." "Things, like what?" "Like the engagement ring you have on your finger..." "Oh, yeah that?" she said as he turned to face her. "Now, Emily you understand that I gave you the ring to show you how committed I am to you and that our love will forever bond us. But I'm not asking that you marry me tomorrow, we can wait...that is if you wanna wait? " "Zander, it's okay...really." "No it's not okay, Emily...you have plans for a future, like college and a career..I don't want to take that away from you." "You won't be...and I don't want to wait to become your wife." she replied as she reached up and brushed her hand across his 5 o'clock shadow. "First thing we have to do is tell your parents.." Zander said as just thought of it was giving him nightmares. "I know, I guess we have to do soon because they are sure to find out from someone..and I would rather us tell them." she said as he placed his hand on her thigh.

"Well I guess now would be a good time as any to tell them, so I guess I 'll call them." She said as she reached for her cell phone in her backpack. She flipped open her cell and dialed the number. She was really dreading the fact of telling her parents that she and Zander were engaged. They were going to flip over this news...especially grandfather. There certainly was no love lost between he and Zander. But this is what she wanted, they would have to accept it.

The phone only rang twice before someone picked up at the Quartermaine mansion. "Quartermaine residence..." the voice said. "Reginald, it's Emily...are my parents home?" she said as her eyes gazed at Zander. "Yes Emily their in the living room..do want to speak with one of them?" Reginald replied as Emily thought of what to say. "No Reginald, just tell them that I will be home in a few minutes...and make sure they are both home, because I..we would like to talk to them about something." she replied. "Alright Emily, I'll let them know." "Thanks Reginald....see you in a few...bye" she said as she flipped the phone closed and laid it on the coffee table in front of her.

"So, are you ready to do this.." Emily said as she got up from the sofa. "No, not really, but they need to be told and we should be the ones to tell them." Zander said as Emily reached for his hand. "We are going to be fine, don't worry...everything is gonna work out..I promise." She had promised many things before and all had worked out, so he had no reason not to believe she would keep this one.

Emily knew her parents would not be happy about this decision, she hadn't turned 18 yet, and she knew that her parents would forbid this marriage from taking place. Her mind was racing as she and Zander made their way to the Quartermaine mansion, dreading every minute of the way. Emily really hadn't seen a problem with what happened between her and Zander over the last 8 months. He was working for Sonny and now had his own place, he was turning his life around. But her parents didn't see it that way, all they saw was a criminal who now worked for a major crime boss and who would never change. She had been so furious with them for how they sent her to California, she hadn't forgiven them for that, but she was willing to stay in the house for grandmother. Emily knew that grandmother would be so upset if she left the house for good. She was just hoping this wouldn't turn into an all out fight with the family. She was so happy that she soon would be Zander's wife, she didn't want to have this situation turn ugly.

As Zander and Emily pulled into the long drive that lead up to the main house, both had taken a deep breath. "Are you sure you want to do this.." Zander asked as he placed his hand on the back of Emily's head and ran his fingers through her soft auburn hair. "Yeah, we have to tell them. They would be more upset if we kept this from them." she replied as she turned her head and looked at him. They pulled up in front of the mansion and Zander turned off the engine of the car. They sat a few moments before Zander opened the car door and got out. He walked behind the car and opened the Emily's door. She sat for a few seconds collecting her thoughts before she stepped out. As Zander took her hand, Emily closed the car door and they walked hand and hand to the front door. "Well we made it this far, there is no turning back now.." she replied as her grip of Zander's hand grew tighter. "We could always make a run for it and come back tomorrow.." he chuckled. "No, there is nothing to be afraid of, we are just going to tell my parents that we are getting married, that's it." she said as she turned to him. "You do realize what you just said, because that was a scary thought."..."What marriage?"..."No telling your parents.." Zander said as he leaned down to kiss her. The two stood on the stoop of the Quartermaine mansion for a few moments embraced. "Here we go..." Emily said as she opened the door.

Zander and Emily stepped into the foyer, as Reginald came down the spiral staircase. "The family is in the living room, Emily"..Reginald said as he gave Zander a grin. "Thanks Reginald". Zander and Emily followed Reginald as they made their way to where the family had been gathered. As Zander and Emily walked into the room, it fell silent. "Emily...what's he doing here?"...Alan said as Edward rose from the chair. "I want him out of this house, now!" Edward said in a raised voice. Emily felt the her stomach tightened and her heart race. Zander wrapped his arm around her as if to protect her from Edwards glares. "He is not leaving, and we need to discuss some things, that is why we are here.." "Emily what were you thinking by bringing him into this house?" Monica replied from across the room. Zander and Emily stood in front of the fireplace where Lila was sitting in her chair. "Good afternoon grandmother.." Emily said as she leaned down to kiss her cheek. "Good afternoon dear, so nice of you two to stop by.." she said as Edward clinched up when she reached for Zander's hand. "Don't you dare.." Edward said as Zander glared back at him. "Edward would sit down..Emily and Zander are here for a reason, and I would like to know what that reason is.." Monica said as she walked towards them.

The room was filled with tension, Zander and Emily sat down slowly on the sofa. Still holding hands so tightly and hoping they would not regret telling her family about their engagement. Emily glanced down at her hand noticing she was wearing the diamond that Zander had given her last night, hoping that no one had noticed it yet. "Well, Zander and I came to talk to you about this.." she said as she raised her left hand to show them the diamond. "Emily you can't be serious..." Alan said as he took her hand in his and stared at the .5 carat on her finger. "Oh, but we are.." she replied as she pulled back. "Emily..you are just a child..you can't get married and to this criminal, we won't allow it." Edward said as he couldn't hold his anger in any longer. Zander sat next to Emily trying so hard to hold back his temper that was flaring at the moment. Emily could see that he was about to explode his anger with the family, and she tightened her grip on his hand as a sign for him not to.

Zander could see that this conversation was about to turn into a drag out fight with her family. He tried to hold back, but he could no longer. It had gotten way to intense for him not to. "Look, if I told you one time I have told you a hundred..Emily and I love each other, and there is nothing the family can do to change that." Zander said as he stood up and he released his hand from Emily's. "Em..I'm sorry but I can't let them do this to us.." he said as he turned to Emily and brushed her face with his hand. " I have made some huge mistakes in my life, and one was getting involved with Sorel. When I met Emily 8 months ago, I knew there was something special about her. She believed in me when no one else would, she stood by me when everyone turned their backs...she loved me for me."...Zander said forcefully. "You never would of met her if you hadn't kidnapped her at gun point!" Edward bellowed as only Edward knew how. "Grandfather, please!" Emily spoke up.."Could we not dwell on the past?..Zander has turned his life around.." "And I did that because of Emily.." The family sat in awe of what they were hearing. They couldn't believe that these two were planning on getting married. They only wanted the best for Emily and this was not what they had planned. "What about college?..." Monica said as she sipped her afternoon tea. "What about it?...." Emily responded as the teenage attitude came forth. "I thought you wanted to go to college..how are you going to do that if you are married.." "Mom, I can still go to college and be married to Zander."

"Look, Emily and I came here to tell you in person, because she didn't want you hearing it from anyone else." Zander replied as he reached for Emily's hand. "Well, how many people know..when did this happen?" Alan said. "The only people that know is Sonny and now you guys....and Zander asked me last night." "And I suppose you spent the night...where?" Monica replied as she noticed them holding hands so tightly. "Zander got his own place, he's not living at Alexis anymore." "I'm sure Sonny Corinthos made sure Zander is well cared for.." Edward replied in disgust. "Grandfather..Zander pays rent and he is working.." "Yeah for Sonny Corinthos.." "Look, I have done everything to try to change my life...and yeah I do work for Sonny..at the warehouse running forklift for 40 hours a week...and yes Sonny has provided a place for me to stay, because it seemed that I was over staying my welcome with Alexis." Zander said as he noticed the famliy was really not buying what he and Emily were selling at this point. They had their minds made up and were not going to change. "May I point out that Emily is not 18 and would need our permission to get married.." Monica said as her and Alan stood watching as Emily and Zander drew each other closer. "Yes, I know that..that is why I had told Emily we would wait....I didn't want to take away her dreams of college and a career.." "Well how noble of you..Zander." Edward said sarcastically. "You know, my patience has grown very thin and I am trying so hard to hold back my anger for Emily's sake...but I have to say that this family certainly does not understand or know anything about her.." Zander had become furious with the family and Emily knew that she needed to get him out of there before things would escalate. Emily nudged him in the ribs. "I certainly do understand why you were concerned about Emily and her being with me, because believe me so was I...I had even told her that she needed to stay away from me because of the danger." "Yeah I'm sure you did.."Edward said under his breath. "He did, grandfather..but I wouldn't have that. I was not going to let him in jail when I knew he was innocent." "I know you are worried about her safety because of her association with me, and I know that you are concerned out of love for her.." "That's right, we love her and we only want to keep her safe." Monica replied. "Well damn it so do I!" Zander said forcefully. "I love Emily and I would not let anything happen to her. I will protect her now...we will be married and she will become my wife, with or without your blessing." The room grew silent as the family couldn't believe what they just heard. They were defying the family yet again. "I mean no disrespect to the family, but Emily and I have decided to get married, and I am sorry for what I have done to this family, but I love her and she loves me. And there is nothing, and I mean nothing that will every come between us.

The family still astonished at what had taken place in their living room. The family had lost Emily some time ago to Zander, but they never thought that these two would get married of all things.

"Now out of courtesy to the family, Emily and I came here to tell you in person about the engagement. And since we have now done that, I think it is time for me to take Emily home."..Zander said as he wrapped his arm around her waist. "Emily, what do you have to say about this, dear.." Lila said as she sat quietly in her wheel chair. "Grandmother, I want to be Zander's wife. I love him and I know he loves me." "Well, then dear, nothing should stand in the way of love...you have my blessing.." Lila said as she reached for Emily's hand. "Thank you grandmother..." Emily said as she kissed Lila's cheek. "Thank you Mrs. Quartermaine.." Zander said as he leaned forward to look at her. "You're most welcome dear...and I expect you to take care of my granddaughter..." "Oh, I will you can count on that...I'll protect her with my life." Zander said with a smile.

"Well you won't get a blessing from me.." Edward snapped back at Lila's offer. "Edward..shut up." Lila said as Zander and Emily stood next to her. "Mom..Dad..aren't you going to say something.." "Yes, Monica and Alan, aren't you going to send her to her room or something.." Edward said as he turned to face Em's parents. "Oh, father put a sock in it.." Alan replied as Zander got a smirk on his face.

Alan walked across the room toward Emily as Zander stiffened all the muscles in his body. "Emily, we love you and we want only what is best for you.." Alan said as he took her hand in his. "I know Dad and I love you too, but I also love Zander. And I want to spend the rest of my life with him." Emily said as she tightened her grip on Zander's hand she was still holding. "Emily look, it's not that we don't want you to be happy, cause we do...but.." "But what Mom...the two of you have made decisions for me since I was 11 years old. It is high time I start making my own choices. And I have made my choice to become Zander's wife..now with that said...we are going up to my room and pack a few things. I will ask Reginald to pack the rest and bring it over to the loft." Emily said as she and Zander turned away to walk out of the room. "You will no such thing..young lady!" her father said in a harsh tone. "You watch me!" She snapped as her and Zander walked hand and hand out of the living room. Alan and Monica followed them as they entered in the foyer. "Emily!...don't you dare head up those stairs!" Alan bellowed as his words echoed throughout the open foyer. "Or what? What are you going to do?..Emily said as she started up the spiral staircase Zander following her lead. "Let her go Alan...face it..we have lost her, for good this time." Monica said as she grabbed onto his arm. "But Monica we can't let her leave this house with that criminal!" "Alan what are we going to do to stop her, huh?...they are engaged to be married and will be married within the month. Zander works the major crime boss in the Port Charles..do you really think that Sonny will not protect them with everything he has?" "You're right, I don't like it..and I don't have to accept it, but I do love Emily.."

Zander and Emily made there way up the stairs and headed for Emily's bedroom. As they stood outside the door of the bed room, Zander took Emily in his arms and embraced her. She needed that so much, the family really had her shaken up, Zander could feel her trembling in his arms. He pulled her closer and tried to comfort the best way he knew how. Zander looked down at her face and wiped the tears that were now falling from her brown eyes. He thought she held it together pretty well while conversing with the family, but now she had to release what she had held back. They stood at the banister above the foyer and could feel the stares from the family below. Zander knew that this was tearing Emily apart, and had to say something to the family about what this has done to her. Zander turned to face the family who stood below in the foyer and before he could speak his mind, Emily stopped him. "Zander don't...there is no need to drag this on..I just want to pack a few things and go home." Emily said as a stray tear trickled down her cheek. He knew she was right, and took her hand as they turned and walked into the bed room.

The family waiting down below to ambush them as they came down the stairs. Emily feeling like she had no choice, she had to do this, she had to show them that she was in charge of her own life. She was making her own decisions, even thought is was tearing her up inside to do this to the family she loved and adored. Zander started down the stairs with the tweed suitcases in hand, Emily followed carrying her matching duffle bag. "Emily, please reconsider.." Monica said as she stood by Alan, her eyes filled with tears. "Mom, I have to do this...I just have to. " Emily said has she embraced her mother, as Zander walked towards the door. "Just know that I love you and I never meant to hurt either of you.." Emily replied as she then hugged Alan. He trying so hard not to do anything to provoke Zander or the situation that was unfolding. Emily held both of them so tightly, but she knew that this was the right thing to do. "Emily, we should be going..." Zander said as he stood with her suitcases still in his hands. Alan clinched his jaw as Emily left go and walked towards Zander. "Your right we should get going..." She replied as she reached to open the door. "Emily....." her mother cried out. Emily ignored the cries from her mother and walked out the door of the mansion, Zander followed and closed the door.

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Emily didn't say a word the whole way home back to Zander's loft, and he didn't push her to talk about it. Emily so distraught over what had happened with her family, once home she layed on the bed and sobbed. Zander knew that she need him now more then ever. Zander walked silently over to the bed and laid down beside her. She nuzzled up against him and he wrapped his arms around her waist. "It's going to be alright, Emily..." "I know, but why do they have to be this way. Why can't they just accept this is who I am and this is what I want." "I don't know sweetheart...I just don't know." Zander noticed that the sun was setting and it would be dark soon. He waited till Emily drifted off to sleep, then he slowly got up and closed the curtains and double checked the door to make sure it was locked. He wanted her to feel safe and secure in her new home. He went to the kitchen and got himself a drink from the refrigerator, then sat on the sofa making sure he was facing the bed in case she awoke. He loved to watch her sleep so peacefully, but he knew this night she would be restless. He sat and watched her for an hour or so nursing the bottle of soda he had.

After a little while, the phone rang. He quickly jumped up off the sofa and grabbed the phone before it would wake her up. "Hello.." Zander said softly. "Zander, it's Jason...." the voice replied on the other end. "What can I do for you, Jason..." Zander said keeping his eye on Emily. "Is Emily there?..." "Yeah she is but she's sleeping...can I..uh..take a message.." Zander replied as he reached for a pen. "Zander is there anything wrong..." Jason said seemingly concerned. "Well, yes and no..." "What do you mean by that?" "Well, I guess I can tell you...I asked Emily to marry me last night..and we decided to tell her parents this afternoon...well to say the least it did not go well." Zander said as he pulled out one of the kitchen chairs and sat down. He thought to himself this phone call might take a while. "Tell me details, Zander...from beginning to end..." Jason said as the tone in voice tensed. "Okay, well last night Sonny offered me the loft above the warehouse and I was already planning on asking Emily to marry me, so I planned a special night for us. She stayed the night and we discussed things this morning about the engagement..things were going so well till Emily said we should go over to the Q's and let them know about getting married." "Well, there was your mistake.." Jason said. "Yeah no kidding..." "I bet they were not happy about this news.." "You got that right, they have Emily pretty shaken up." There was silence on the other end of the phone. "Jas, are you still there?.." Zander asked as a concerned look came over his face. "Yeah man, I 'm still here.."
"So Emily and I packed a few of her things and brought them back to the loft..her parents were not happy about that and spoke their mind about her leaving with me...Emily pretty much told them to go to hell in a hand basket." "I can imagine, Emily is pretty stubborn and she is so damn determined." "Yes she is...and now she has pretty much alienated herself from the Quartermaines, and now all she really has is me." Zander replied as Emily rustled around on the bed only a few feet away. "Zander, would you please tell Emily that I will be home in a few days...I'll stop by and see her then the 3 of us can talk about this and the Quartermaines." "Yeah sure I'll tell her...we'll see you in a few days." "Thanks Zander..oh and congrats on the engagement." Jason replied. "That really means alot coming from you..I'm sure Emily will appreciate it.." "Okay I'll catcha's in a few days.." "Okay..c-ya.." Zander said as he hung up the phone.

He walked slowly across the hardwood floor towards the bedroom area. Emily was sleeping peacefully, well at least he thought she was. "Who was on the phone.." Emily asked still half asleep. "Oh that was Jason, he's gonna come by and see you in a few days." Zander replied as he laid down next to her. "Hon, what time is it..how long was I sleeping.." She asked as she nuzzled up against him. "It's a little after 7, and you were resting a little over an hour..why?" "Just wondering.." she softly whispered as she drifted back to sleep. Zander knew she needed her rest, and that she had been through alot today. But how much worse could it get, her family was so angry with her for making the choice she made, and angry with him for taking her away from them. He wrapped his arms around her to comfort her as she slept.

He couldn't fall asleep, he had so many things running through his mind. He laid with her for what seemed like hours, when she finally turned to him and said "Zander..have I told you today that I love you.." Surprised that she had awoke, he looked down at her and replied..."You just did.." And as a smile came over her face he knew that things were going to be alright. He brushed her hair away from her face with his hand and leaned down to kiss her softly on her lips. She raised her head for her mouth to meet his, a warm and tender kiss was what she expected, but she got so much more. His kiss was soft and sensual, and they had longed so much to be together, it was like their first time. Emily slowly moved her hands around his waist and started to remove his black tee shirt, she wanted him so badly...she needed him tonight. As she slid his black tee up across his chest, Zander started to unbutton her red blouse. She pulled the tee up over his head as he unbuttoned the last button. He slipped the blouse over her shoulder and kiss her tenderly, he removed the blouse to reveal the satin bra she wore. He slowly slid one of the straps down off her shoulder, and then the other..as Emily ran her hands through his hair and drew him closer. Her mouth found his once again as the kiss became intense and sensual. She started to slowly move her hand down below his abdomen and tried to unbutton his jeans. Zander released the kiss and laid on his back as Emily straddled him and hovered over as her deep auburn hair tickled his nose. She then unbutton his jeans and slid them down his thighs and revealed a pair of silk boxers. He took his hands and cupped her face.."I love you, Emily..." "I love you too...Zander..make love to me.." With that said, he proceeded to passionately kiss her like there was no tomorrow. He started to remove the khakis she was wearing and slid them down over her legs, as he did this, his hand touched her soft skin on her inner thigh. He felt her tremble as his hand moved upward closer to her moistened flesh and her legs fell open without any resistance to his warm hand. She closed her eyes and felt the sensations of having him please her so. All she wanted was more. He knew she was enjoying the sensual glide of his fingers inside her body by the way she moved in rhythm. He kissed her soft skin around her abdomen, which in turn gave her more pleasure. She moaned softly as his mouth found her breast and then her nipple. Zander knew that she was his for the taking, but he wanted to please her even more. With his finger still inside her, he quickened the pace and found the spot that took her into ecstasy. He cupped his free hand around her breast and aroused her nipple, while she lay there enjoying every bit of contact from him. He knew she was about to release, so he removed his finger from her and slid his hand along her side and straddled her. Her legs wrapped around him so tightly as he leaned over her, he slowly penetrated as she left out a soft moan. "Are you okay..." he whispered to her. "I'm..uh fine...it feels so good.." she replied as her arms wrapped around his waist. As he moved inside her, he felt her muscles contract around his hardened flesh. They started to move in a rhythm as her fingers stiffened and her nails dug into his back. He intensified and deepened his thrusting motion as she called out his name. Her legs stiffened around him as she reached her peak. He slowed down as he cupped one of her breasts and started to arouse the nipple once again. "Oh, don't stop...Zander.." she whispered...and he started suckling on the nipple that was now erect. He noticed that it took her to another level of pleasure as he did so. She at this moment was enjoying his soft caresses and his hands roaming her naked body. He shift his hips and started his thrusting motion once again. He intensified his motion and leaned down as his mouth met hers in a kiss that deepened with every thrust of motion. He released the kiss and arched his back as he ejaculated inside her. Once he released, her legs loosened around him and he was left breathless. "Are you alright.." she asked as he lay atop of her trying to catch his breath. "Uh, hyeah..I'm fine...you were amazing" he said as he kissed her lightly. "No you were incredible..." she replied as he slid his body off of her and laid down on his back beside her. She moved closer to him and laid her head on his chest. He wrapped his arm around her and brushed her hair away from her face. Their bodies lay intertwined underneath the silk sheets. Both were exhausted from the pleasureable experience that just occurred, Emily closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep, while Zander lay awake keeping watch. He watched Emily for a few hours before he closed his eyes and fell asleep.

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A few days had past since the big arguement with the Quartermaines, and Emily seemed to be getting better as the days passed. Her finals were over and now she needed to find a job. She never needed a job, she always had her mother and father to supply her with money...but since the big blow up at the house 3 days ago, she didn't think it wise to call the house.

Zander had gone to work that morning before 6am, and Emily was left to fend for herself till 5 that night. She made a few phone calls and found a few business who were hiring. So, she got her coat, along with her keys to the loft that Zander had gotten made for her and headed out. She wasn't half way to Kelly's to see Elizabeth when her cell phone rang. She stopped and sat on the wooden bench on the dock and rustled through her bag to find her phone. She flipped open her cell and said "Hello". "Emily,...." the voice said on the other end. "Jason..is that you?" she replied as a smile came over her face. "Yeah, Em...it's me.." "Where are you calling from?" Emily replied. There was a moment of silence on the other end of the phone. As Emily sat on the wooden bench listening for him to respond, Jason peeked around the corner at the top of the stairs. "Where am I calling from?...hmmm..look behind you Em.." he said as he saw her turn around and look at him. She smiled from ear to ear as he came down the stairs to greet him. She was so elated to see him, she jumped into his arms. "It is so nice to see you, Jason.." she said as she hugged him tightly. "Yeah it's nice to see you too...Mrs. Smith." he replied with a grin. "Nah, not yet but soon.." she replied with a smile. "How long are you sticking around this time?" Emily asked as they sat down on the bench. "Well, I don't really know...when's the wedding?" he asked. Emily not really knowing what to say, said "As soon as I turn 18.." "Alan and Monica having a pervibal fit yet?"..."Long past fit..there Jas..totally hit the roof when Zander and I told them." "I cannot blame them for reacting this way...can you?" "No I can't but they could give him a chance.." "What like they gave me one?" Jason said as he heard someone come up from behind. Zander came walking along the docks, which surprised Emily since he was supposed to be at work. "Hey, Jason.." Zander said as he came upon them sitting on the bench. "How ya doin'?" He asked as Jason stood up to shake hands with him. "Not bad, yourself?"..."Fine now..." Zander replied as he embraced Emily. "What are doing down here?...I thought you were at work.." she said as she smiled at him. "I am...I'm coming back from lunch...what are doing down here?" "Well I was on my way to Kelly's when I bumped into Jason...who was more then likely on his way to the loft for a visit." "Hey, Jas...why don't you come up for supper tonight...Em's cooking.." Zander said as he grinned over the fact that Emily Quartermaine was cooking dinner. "I got some things to take care of, but I'll stop up later...thanks for the invite though, maybe we can get together at Jake's or something." "Well, stop up when you get a chance....I'll be home after 6.." Zander said as he kissed Emily lightly on her cheek. "I gotta get back to work..I'll see you at home tonight.." he said as glanced at Emily. "Okay, I'll see you later..."

It was so nice that Jason and Zander got along, she didn't think she could bear it if her brother didn't get along with her soon to be husband. I guess Jason knows better than anyone else how the family is and he wants her to be happy. Emily and Jason sat quite a while just catching up on the goings on since he had been gone. A lot had happened in the 3 weeks he was out of town and it was nice to sit and talk to him about things she couldn't talk to anyone else about. She didn't want to worry Zander about family stuff and Jason understood where she was coming from when it came down to Alan and Monica. "How's Grandmother?.." he asked. "She's fine, but she is upset with Grandfather over this whole situation with me and Zander." Emily replied. She was a little surprised that he asked about Grandmother, but he had always been fond of her and the feeling was mutual. Jason looked down at his watch, and noticed he had a meeting to get to, Emily of course knew better then not to ask what, where and with whom. So they said their good byes and she reminded him about stopping over later.

Jason headed down the dock while Emily headed up the stairs towards Kelly's. Emily stood outside of Kelly's and peered through the window taking notice of who was sitting at the tables. She noticed that Elizabeth was working today, and decided to go in and visit with her. As she reached for the door to push it open, the door opened on its own. She turned around and saw AJ holding the door open for her. "Can we talk.." AJ asked as she stepped through. "Yeah sure....let's sit.." Emily replied as she took off her coat and sat at the closest table. "So, I hear you are engaged...." AJ said as he noticed the diamond on her finger. "Mom and Dad told you, didn't they..." she replied as AJ took her hand to look more closely at the ring she wore. "Actually, Grandmother told me...she is happy for you Em.." "Yeah I know..she seems to be the only one.."

They sat talking for a few more minutes when Elizabeth came over to the table asked if they wanted to order anything. Emily was starved, she hadn't eaten anything yet that day and she knew she wouldn't get anything till later that night. Elizabeth took their order and left the table so they could talk in private. "Em...look I know that you care for Zander....but getting married...why?" "AJ..I love him and he makes me happy.." she replied as she noticed Lucky and Nicolas walked in. "I will support you in whatever you decide to do, but just know that the family wants only what is best for you." he replied as he noticed Emily was glancing over towards the counter where her friends were sitting. "Go...go be with your friends.." "Thanks AJ..and tell Grandmother I said hello.." "Sure I'll tell her..." Emily got up from the table and walked over to the counter to meet up with her friends.

Lucky and Nicolas were surprised to see her, she hadn't been around much lately. She told them about Zander living at the loft and that he had proposed a few days ago. They were very supportive which surprised her, because of their past behavior when they had been around him. Emily told them about the big fight she had with her family about the engagement and that she moved out and is now living with Zander. Emily also explained to her friends that she was now looking for a job. Nicolas suggested that she talk to Ned, there could be a job for her as a singer, she had done so well with the duet she recorded with Juan. Singing wasn't something that interested her, but maybe Elizabeth could get her in at Deception. She had done modeling before and really loved the work. Emily and Elizabeth discussed plans for them to meet so they could go over to Deception together. Elizabeth had the day off tomorrow, and Emily couldn't wait...so they decided to go tomorrow afternoon. Emily looked at her watch and noticed it was getting late. Zander would be home soon and she should be there when he got off of work. So she said her good byes to her friends and gathered her things as she headed out the door.

It was a short walk from Kelly's to Zander's loft, so she should beat him home. As she got to the bottom of the stairs that led up to the apartment, she searched her bag for her keys. She climbed the stairs and unlocked the door and as she stepped inside she noticed that something was wrong. She couldn't put her finger on it, but somehow things were different. She suddenly became afraid knowing of Zander's connection to Sonny, they were always in danger of retaliation from anyone who had business dealings with him. She felt along the wall for the light switch and flicked on the light in the kitchen. Still a afraid of what maybe lurking in the other parts of the loft she wasn't taking any chances. She slowly walked into the kitchen and grabbed the baseball bat that Zander had stashed along side of the refrigerator. As she turned around with the bat, the light from a lamp in the living room came on which startled her. Her heart beating faster and pounding within her chest, she could barely see who was sitting on the chair. Zander had put in a low wattage light bulb in the lamp, so the light was dim in that part of the loft. "Who's there...answer me damn it!" Emily said as she gripped the bat in her hand. She noticed a figure stand up from the chair and walk toward her. Now she was even more afraid then she was before, not knowing who it was frightened her beyond belief. The figure of a man had finally stepped into the light for her to see who it was.

Chapter 5