Author's note: I'm back! Apologies for the 4 month lag between updates. I don't know how consistent I will be (especially with GOT on right now), but the trio is never far from my thoughts. I hope you enjoy this update.

Disclaimer: Nope.

Chapter 5

Killian gently shook Emma's shoulder. "We're here, love," he whispered. The poor thing slept most of the flight, then again in the cab back to Paddington. Killian was relieved she was getting some rest; she needed it. She'd been putting on a brave front ever since they'd gotten her back; he knew she couldn't truly be at ease until they were home. Even then, it would take time until she was truly herself again. He shared a look with his brother over their wife's sleepy head; Liam looked just as relieved—and worried—as he was.

"I'll get the bags," Liam said, nodding toward Emma. "Help her inside?"

Killian nodded. "Come on, lass."

Emma lifted her head reluctantly; she'd heard them talking but she was too tired and jetlagged to care. She should have been happy to be home, but it just felt like the whole weight of the last week had fallen on her shoulders. Seeing Neal again had brought it all back; she didn't want to admit it but seeing him again frightened her. She wanted to get back to her life, starting with having a nice long sleep in her own bed. Preferably surrounded by her boys.

To everyone's chagrin, the street was crawling with paps. Dozens of flashes, dozens of voices shouting; the trio ignored them all as they climbed the stairs to their townhouse. Emma's kidnapping had made the British press; who knew when the spotlight would move on? Things were just starting to quit down before they left; now the paps were back, tenfold. Perhaps their neighbors would complain?

"Here, let me do that," Killian murmured, slipping Emma's coat off her shoulders.

"I can do it," Emma groused, but she allowed Killian to peel her winter gear off. He pressed a gentle kiss to the side of her neck; she sighed in response. "Hmm."

"We're home," he said, wrapping his arms around her from behind. The way she sagged into him both broke his heart and filled him with joy. He hated that she'd suffered so much, but he loved that she felt safe enough to lean on him.

"Home," she breathed. Her eyes fell shut as she soaked in the familiar scent of Killian and home. She heard Liam drop their bags in the middle of the foyer, then shrug out of his own coat. The floor creaked as he moved around them; she hummed as his lips brushed across her forehead. Emma pulled him close, a little of the happiness she wanted to feel finally seeping into her veins.

"Tired?" Liam asked.

Emma nodded. "Yeah. I know we just got here. Sorry." She'd really been looking forward to properly christening their new master suite, but she just wanted to rest.

"Hey, none of that now," Liam chided, running his fingers through her hair. "We're all exhausted." It had been a long couple of weeks. He felt better now that they were home. He felt better just holding Emma in his arms.

"Sorry," she said again.

"You've nothing to apologize for," Killian said firmly. "None of this is your fault."

"I know, this just…sucks."

"It might not be the homecoming we wanted," Liam agreed. "But at least we're home."

That was true. Home was the one place she'd wanted to be, the one thing that kept her going while Neal held her captive. Home was wherever they were, Killian and Liam, but it was also a place. It was this place, the home they'd built together. "I love you both, so much."

"We love you too, sweetheart," Liam replied softly. "Anything you need, simply ask."

"I am a little hungry."

"I don't think we have anything left; we can order in."

"Chinese?"

"Of course."

Liam and Emma settled in the living room while Killian called in their food order. Once he was finished, he joined them on the couch; Liam was reading from the book they'd been reading before they left. Killian gently lifted her feet into his lap, gently massaging them. Emma smiled at him, her sleepy green eyes filled with love and affection. It was the perfect scene of domesticity, exactly what she needed. They were always what she needed.

"Ready to see our sanctuary?"

Emma was so tired; the idea of their bed was very inviting. The work had been going on since before they left for New York; it was a long time coming. The three of them sharing the master bedroom wasn't planned when Emma first came to London, but they quickly realized that it was the way they wanted to be. Emma only used the room meant for her less than a handful of times; Killian all but abandoned the room that had been his. Cramming all their things into a closet meant for one or two had been a tight squeeze, but Emma loathed changing anything about the home that had become hers. Finally, practicality won out; they agreed they needed to do something with their most private space.

Killian spent a long time finding a contractor and designer to create a space suited to their needs; he was excited to see it. Emma led the way upstairs, the boys trailing in her wake. The bedroom door was closed; they hadn't left it that way. Snow and David had been keeping tabs on the construction while they were in New York; perhaps they'd left it closed?

Emma reached out and placed her hand on the handle. It turned easily enough but before she could push the door open, the boys stopped her. "What's wrong?"

"Not a thing, love." Killian placed his hand over her eyes. "Now you can open it."

"Ridiculous man," Emma groaned. Still, she did as he bid and pushed open the door. She felt their hands on the small of her back, easing her through the doorway. "Am I the only one that can't look?" It seemed utterly bizarre, because she'd seen the plans. She knew what it should look like.

"Indulge us," Liam teased. "Just this once."

"It's never once with you two," Emma mock complained.

"A good thing, that," Killian agreed. "We'd be lost without you."

Emma smiled to herself. From the very beginning, she couldn't get either of them out of her head. This was where she was meant to be. "Alright, let see it then." She opened her eyes and gasped. "Oh wow."

Seeing it in in the drawings was noting compared to seeing it in person. The enormous four poster remained, but it was the only holdover from the previous iteration of the room. Sheer gray silk was draped artfully from the posters; the comforter was a similar color, highlighted with dark reds and blues. Pillows lay piled high; Emma wanted to jump into it and never climb out. Three walls were painted a neutral cream, but the fourth was a deep maroon. Against that wall was a custom-made vanity and dresser, trimmed with silver handles. A single oversized chair looked comfortable and inviting; Emma took note of the silver rings on each leg and the arms; they would have fun playing with those.

They moved deeper into the room; Emma took a peek in the closet. It was twice the size it had been; her clothes were lined up on one side, the brothers on the other, separated by a divider. When did she acquire so many clothes? She couldn't remember, but she certainly wasn't complaining. "They did a nice job," she observed, running her hands over the hanging clothes.

"As nice as this is," Liam said, "I think there's a bit more to see."

She offered him a teasing grin. "I like the way you think, Liam Jones." She placed her hand in his and headed for the remodeled bathroom. Her jaw dropped as they stepped inside. "Oh my gosh."

Beside her, Liam nodded. "Aye, love. It's certainly something."

Killian examined the huge tub, testing the taps. "Shall we try it out later?"

Emma nodded. "We've got until Monday, right?"

"Aye, our emergency leave lasts until then. But we could apply for an extension, if you want?"

As much as she wanted to keep them with her, she needed to start rebuilding her sense of self. Besides, she promised she would begin by finding someone to talk to about what happened to her. "No, you should go back. I'll be fine."

Liam wrapped his arm around her waist. "Emma, there's no rush. We can stay as long as you need." In truth, he wasn't looking forward to going back; his hearing about Clara was looming. Despite what she'd done, he just wanted to put that part of his life behind him. Emma needed him.

"No, it's okay. If it'll make you feel better, I can ask Ruby or Mary Margaret to hang out with me." She touched his cheek. "I know I promised to see a…therapist, but just give me a little time?"

"Anything you need."

"Now I know this bathroom is pretty spectacular," she added—it really was, they hadn't even gotten a good look at the shower yet—"but, right now, I'd like to sleep in our bed."

"You'll get no arguments from me." He pressed a kiss to her temple. "I think we've all earned a nice long rest."

They left Emma to change in the bathroom while the boys turned down the bed. Killian tucked some of the huge pillows on top of their chest, still resting at the foot of the bed. It was still safely locked; he would return their toys they'd brought with them later. Unpacking, laundry, shopping, cooking Emma a good meal, all of that could wait until morning. They'd all had a very long day. He could still hear that wanker Neal's taunts; all he wanted was to protect Emma from ever being hurt by that bastard again.

Emma emerged, dressed in old flannel pajamas. Her boys were ready for her, Killian standing to the side so Emma could climb into the bed. He had to admit she looked adorable in the oversized flannel. Was it his? Liam's? In the end, it didn't matter. She belonged to them both. He brushed his lips over her temple as he settled beside her. "We'll make you breakfast in the morning," he promised. "All your favorites."

"Didn't you just say we had no groceries?"

"We are capable of shopping," Liam pointed out. "You're not lifting a finger."

"Liam…"

"No arguments, lass. Your body is still healing."

Her ribs did still twinge occasionally, but she suspected that Liam wasn't talking about her physical well-being. Her emotional trauma would take much longer to heal than her body. She was still having nightmares. "Okay. Chocolate chip pancakes?"

"As you wish." He leaned over her and pressed a chaste kiss to her lips. "Love you."

"Love you too." She turned and kissed Killian as well. "Don't be afraid to wake me if I kick you, okay?"

"We'll take care of you, Emma, never fear."

She smiled and turned on her side, sighing as her boys snuggled against her under the blankets. An intense feeling of safety and rightness settled over her. The bed still smelled a bit foreign—new sheets—but the mattress was soft and familiar. Liam shut off the lights, dousing them in darkness. It didn't take her long to fall asleep.

It was dark. She could feel the swaying of the ship under her; despair gripped her. She'd failed. She was trapped. Neal's men had run her down when she tried to escape and dragged her onto the ship. No one was coming to help her. The cargo crate smelled heavily of fish and brine; it was everything she could do not to gag. She was tied hand and foot; she couldn't muster the energy to struggle. She was never going to see Liam and Killian again. She had no idea where Neal was taking her, but what did it matter? He'd won.

"Come on, Em, it's not that bad," Neal purred, coming up behind her. He ran his fingers over her cheekbone; she shuddered. "We're together now."

"Fuck off."

A light came out of nowhere, blinding her. She blinked furiously to clear her vision. Out of the corner of her eyes, she spotted Neal leaning in to try and kiss her; she turned away. He slapped her, hard. "Now, now, Emma. That's not nice."

"I would rather be dead than be with you, Neal. Do you hear me? Dead!"

Neal's face hardened. "What do those perverts have that I don't?" he demanded. "Tell me!"

She spat out blood. "You're nothing, Neal. I never loved you. I'm never going to love you!"

Neal snarled and pulled his gun. Emma stared right down the dark hole of the barrel, terror like she'd never known gushing through her veins. He was going to kill her. She knew it, just as she knew that without a shadow of a doubt that she loved her boys. At least they were safe. That was all that mattered.

The gun shook slightly; it took Emma a moment to realize Neal was laughing. "Don't think you're getting off that easily, Ems. We're not nearly through playing."

Scuffling got her attention. As she turned her head toward the sound her eyes widened in horror. "No!" she screamed. "NO!"

Neal's smug grin made her blood run cold. "You didn't really think I'd let them go now, did you? You're losing your touch, honey." He casually pointed his gun in first Liam's face, then Killian's. Both brothers were bound hand and foot, gagged. Their eyes were fixed on Emma, regret and rage burning in those blue depths that she loved so much. She screamed and struggled, cursing Neal, cursing the very day she met him.

"We can't have you hurting yourself, Ems. That's not part of the game."

It happened too fast for her to even scream. The gunshot rang in her ears, sinking her into darkness.

Liam muttered groggily, wondering just what the hell had dragged him from sleep. It took a few moments to realize Emma was thrashing beside him, caught in the throes of another nightmare. Killian was already awake, trying to wake her.

"Emma, Emma!" the younger Jones cried, shaking her shoulder. "Emma!"

Liam sat up quickly, taking Emma's hand into his. "Emma, wake up. Come back to us, love." She'd calmed a little, her chin wobbling, distress written all over her gorgeous features.

Emma awoke with a gasp, momentarily disoriented. "Liam! Killian! Oh my god!" Relief at seeing them, warm and alive, cut through her like a knife. She sagged into the pillow, still breathing hard. Her heart was beating a mile a minute; she felt like there was boulder on her chest. "Ugh, I am so sorry," she whispered.

"Hey, don't ever apologize for this," Killian said firmly. "You've done nothing wrong."

"What was it?" Liam asked as gently as he could. His fingers caressed her wrist, right over her racing pulse; it seemed to soothe her. "Another nightmare?"

Slowly, she nodded. "It felt so real."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

She shook her head. She knew she should, but she couldn't relive it. Not yet. Not when the images were still burned into her retinas. "I just want him out of my head."

Liam pressed his lips to her wrist. "We'll help you," he promised. "We're right here with you."

"Not leaving you again," Killian promised. He kissed her damp brow, while his fingers grazed her cheek. "You're safe."

"It was never me I was worried about," she whispered softly. "All I could think about was the two of you. As long as you were safe, it didn't matter what happened to me."

Liam growled dangerously, bringing her hand to his lips. "Don't ever say that, Emma. We're not complete without you."

"But don't you see? This is all my fault! It was my ex, Liam! Neal tried to kill you. He would have tried again. Hell, he still might! We don't know! Don't you understand? He's obsessed. With me. He knows hurting you guts me. I can't take that risk again. I can't."

She was sobbing now, turning away from Killian and burying her face in the pillow. Both Killian and Liam did what they could to try and calm her, but she had to cry it out. She just kept reliving the dream; her brain thankfully woke her before she could see which of her boys had taken the fatal shot. Not that it mattered. She needed them both. Losing one would destroy her just as much as both.

"You're right," Killian whispered at last. "We don't know. But Emma, we can't hide from this. We can't live in fear. It kills me to see you like this, sweetheart."

Emma's breathing had returned to normal, but she didn't know if she could face them. She hated feeling like this. These moods came and went with disturbing speed and ferocity. Of course, it had only been a week or so since her ordeal. It was unreasonable to expect her to be okay. She wasn't okay. Neal might be locked up, but he was the head of an entire criminal organization. They were still in danger; she could feel it in her bones.

Liam and Killian exchanged worried looks over her. It was perfectly normal for her to still be traumatized; it had taken the boys weeks to come to terms with what happened to them. Both still had the occasional nightmare. Fear like that just didn't go away. One had to develop ways to cope. The best thing they could do for her was support her, remind her that she wasn't alone.

"Emma?" Liam murmured softly. "Are you okay?"

She sniffed but raised her head. "I will be," she replied, trying to give him a reassuring smile. She hated feeling this way, just as much as they hated witnessing her distress. She had to pull herself together because life went on. Killian was right; they couldn't hide. She couldn't allow Neal to steal her life from her. "I'm going to go clean up, if that's okay."

"Of course." Liam's lips skimmed her cheek; she offered him a tremulous smile. She squeezed Killian's hand as she slipped from the bed and padded to the bathroom. Once they heard the water running, Liam turned to his brother. "I have an idea about how to help Emma, but you might not like it."

Killian ran his fingers through his hair, trying to shake the feeling of helplessness. "It can't be worse than feeling like this."

Liam nodded sagely. Still, what he was about to suggest would be distressing for his brother. But it was the only way he could think of to put Emma's mind at ease, even a little. "I think we should visit Ioan."

"Ioan?" Killian said in surprise. His first instinct was anger, but that faded quickly. Their father had helped them find Emma; there was nothing in it for him. Killian appreciated that. He was thankful. But did it mean he was ready to reconcile? He just wasn't sure.

"Killian, he helped us. We found Emma because of him."

"Don't you think I know that?" Killian snapped.

"I didn't mean to upset you, brother."

Killian sighed. "Aye, I know. I just don't know how to feel about him. What good do you think seeing him will do?"

Liam scratched his chin. "You said it yourself, we don't know what Neal's organization is capable of. Emma's afraid we might still be in danger. We need greater insight into how these organizations work. Ioan can give us that." He paused. "And we can thank him."

Killian glanced away. As much as he hated to admit it, Liam had a point. And if it helped put Emma's mind at ease, how could he say no? "Alright, we'll ask Emma. If she's fine with it, then I'll find a way to be."

"Ask me what?"

Emma's eyes were still rimmed with red, but she was a welcome sight anyway. Killian tucked her in as she settled beside him in the center of the bed. "Liam had an idea."

She regarded the elder Jones curiously. "What is it?"

"How would you feel about visiting our father?"

"Ioan? Why? I mean, I know he helped you find me, but…"

"He comes from…that world, love. If you truly think there's a chance we're still in danger, he might have some useful information."

Emma could see the sense in that. Ioan Jones had helped his sons when he didn't have to; she was grateful. Privately, she'd held on to a sliver of hope that the Jones men could be reconciled. Ioan would have to pay for his crimes, but she didn't want the memory of him to be poisonous. "Do you think we could arrange something like that?"

"We can try. Your friend patched us through once, perhaps she could do it again."

Emma thought that referring to Lily as her friend was a bit of a stretch, but she, too, had helped them when called upon. Trying couldn't hurt. In the meantime, she would contact INTERPOL and see what they had on Neal's organization. Emma was an investigator; she couldn't sit by and do nothing. "I'm fine with it if you guys are. I know how you feel about him is…complicated."

Killian slipped his hand in hers. "Complicated, aye. But your peace of mind is more important. If this can help, then I'm in."

Emma smiled gently, so proud of him. She pressed her lips tenderly to his. "Love you."

"I love you too." He leaned his head against her cheek, breathing her in. They'd come so close to losing her; he would do anything to keep her safe. "Think you can sleep now?"

"Hold me?"

"There is nothing else I would rather do."

The trio settled back into the mussed bed; Liam once again switched off the light. It was nearly four in the morning; hopefully, they could get a few more hours of sleep.

Emma sighed as the hot spray crashed against her skin. After living in a hotel for weeks and traveling, she was so thankful to be home. The shower, of course, was not how they left it; it was wider and deeper than she remembered. There were two different ledges as well as a recess for all their shower supplies. The entire shower was covered in tile in a herringbone pattern, except for the specialty anchor tiles that wound around the center. They'd opted for a glass door; no curtain would be safe with them. She'd considered taking a long hot bath while the boys worried about breakfast, but she wanted the first time she stepped inside to be with them. They'd earned that.

She spent a fair amount of time scrubbing the travel grime away, enjoying the way the loofah scratched over her skin. The abrasions on her wrists were still tender, but it wasn't anything she couldn't handle. The shower now had two showerheads, one that detached (that was a must; the boys loved to torment her with such a device) and a rain shower head. Emma placed herself directly under the rainfall, soaking her hair, water sluicing over her face. It was soothing, the heat soaking into her skin, her muscles.

There was nothing like being home.

Once her hair was washed, she pushed open the shower door. It took her a minute to find the towels; they were hidden in a recessed rack. The contractors really did a fantastic job; if Emma didn't know this was her house, she would have thought they'd stumbled back into one of those fancy hotels the boys loved to take her to. There was a level of luxury that she wasn't used to. She dried off quickly, wrapping the towel around herself and grabbing another for her hair. She took her time going through her usual routine, brushing her teeth, then her hair. The cracked door allowed the tempting smell of coffee and baked goods cut through the lingering steam; Emma's mouth watered.

Her dream the previous night seemed far away. She could feel the memory of it, but that was all it was: a memory. It wasn't real. Neal was in jail; they were home. She had her boys all to herself for the next few days; she wasn't going to waste a single moment.

"How many did you get?" Liam said, setting a load of sacks on the table.

Killian shrugged. "We've been gone for a while, brother. We needed to restock."

"You bought out the bakery."

"I doubt our wife will be complaining."

Liam smiled to himself; that was true. Emma certainly did have a sweet tooth. After everything she'd been through, it didn't seem wrong to indulge her. They got many of her favorite things; Liam was already planning meals in his head. For the most of the next few days, he expected them to be pretty homebound; after facing the paps once again on the shopping run, Liam certainly didn't want to expose Emma to that. She seemed so fragile last night; it was a stark reminder that she still had a long way to go. Healing from such a thing would take time; he knew that first hand. Emma had been quite insistent about both Liam and Killian seeking help after the attack at Whitehall. Liam resisted at first, but she'd been quite correct. Talking to someone had helped him come to terms with everything, especially the guilt. It had felt like bile in his gut, bile that needed to be purged. As much as he hated to see Emma this way, he suspected she was going through something similar.

Once they got the groceries put away, he and Killian started breakfast. They still had some of the French coffee left; the smell quickly wafted through the house. They could hear the water running upstairs; Emma would hopefully emerge soon.

Killian left the pancakes to Liam, focusing on coffee and bacon. That gave him time to make a call. He didn't especially want to make this call, but they'd agreed that they would at least try. He dialed and waited. Hell, it was possible that Lily wasn't even working today.

"Wyvern."

"Lily, it's Killian." He didn't elaborate; the woman wasn't stupid.

"Hello, Killian. How is Emma?"

"As well as can be expected. Thanks for asking."

"I'm just glad I could help you find her."

"After Liam convinced you," Killian added, trying not to sound bitter. He understood that the detective had a job to do, but he couldn't really bring himself to care. Emma's safety was more important than anything else.

"Would you ask me to sacrifice a slam dunk case for one person?"

"Yes, I would. Speaking of, we want to see Ioan. In person."

There was a long pause, so long that Killian almost thought she'd hung up. He could hear her breathing, which gave her away. "May I ask why," she said finally.

"Emma's having a…hard time," he said carefully. "The trauma she suffered at that hands of that monster…she's so strong, but it comes and goes. She still seems to believe that we're in danger."

He heard Lily moving at the other end of the line; a drawer slammed. "As much as I hate to say it, I might have to agree with her. This Neal character was the infamous Vatra. Law enforcement has been trying to bring him down for years."

"What do you know about his…organization?"

Lily sighed. "Not a lot. It's not my area; they've given me an in through my association with you lot, actually. I can gather some information here. Didn't Emma speak to INTERPOL?"

"She did, but it sounded like a lot of empty words, to be honest."

"How would meeting with your father help?"

"He was in that world, Lily. He understands how it works. He might even have knowledge that can help the terrorist investigation."

"Okay, you lost me. What does any of this have to do with the attack?"

As patiently as he could, Killian explained. As he spoke, he swapped out cooked bacon for another batch. Liam glanced his way; Killian shrugged. Their only hope of getting access to Ioan Jones was through Lily. When he finished, Lily whistled low. "Why haven't we been informed?"

Killian moved into the foyer. "The lead investigator was on the call when Emma spoke to INTERPOL; I'm not in charge of what they share with you, Detective." He'd been investigating the explosion for months; how long had it taken him to locate the possible Russian link? Now that that link was all but proven, he wanted this over.

"This changes things," Lily said. "Let me see what I can do. If you think it will help, I'll try to get you in with your father. No promises though."

"I wouldn't expect anything. But thank you, Lily." He knew how the other woman felt about them; she didn't understand what the trio had together. Killian had long thought Lily had a bit of a crush on Emma; perhaps that was why she was so antagonistic. That wasn't his problem. His only concern was doing anything he could to put Emma's mind at ease.

"What did she say?" Liam asked, adding a couple more pancakes to the stack.

Killian slipped his phone into his pocket. "She said she'd try."

"Typical."

Killian nodded. "I'm not excited by the idea of seeing him, but I think you're right. If it helps Emma, then we should do it."

"Know your enemy, brother."

"I hope Emma's wrong. We deserve some peace."

"Even if she is right, we can hope that we've given the authorities enough information to bring the Forgotten down for good. This can't go on forever."

Killian chuckled dryly. "Now who's become the optimistic one?"

"We got Emma back, Killian. The rest doesn't matter."

"What doesn't matter?"

Both brothers turned. "Morning, love."

Emma smiled at her boys; they were adorably scruffy and handsome. "Is it still morning?"

Liam nodded. "Aye, for another hour or so. Even if it hadn't been, we'd still have made you breakfast."

"It smells delicious." She accepted a cup of coffee from Killian. It was hot but not too hot. She recognized it immediately; it brought a smile to her face. Every time she drank this coffee, she was reminded of France and all the incredible happy memories they shared there.

"It's good to see you smile, love," Killian said, gently brushing a lock of hair behind her ear.

"Sorry about last night. I don't know what that was."

Liam shook his head. "Please don't apologize for how you feel, Emma. Your feelings are completely understandable. Who would understand that better than us?"

Emma perched on her usual stool. "I get that, I do. I just…hate feeling like this. It's like I'm not in control anymore. Every time I think I've got it under control, I have a dream, or I smell something. Suddenly I'm right back in that warehouse."

Their hearts broke for her. "I know it's hard now," Killian replied. "That exactly how I felt when we came home, remember?" Emma nodded; she remembered all too well. "It's okay if you don't want to talk, but please know that you can tell us anything. We would never think less of you. You're the strongest person we know. This doesn't change that."

"Killian's right," Liam agreed. "Please don't shut us out, sweetheart."

Emma's lip trembled; she quickly hopped off her stool and hurried into Killian's arms. Only because he was the closest. "I'm sorry I'm such a mess," she whispered. "But thanks for understanding."

Liam eased between the pair and island, hugging Emma and Killian from behind. "We'll get through this, Emma," he promised. "Together, just like always."

She nodded against Killian's shoulder, blinding reaching back to squeeze Liam's hand. She desperately wanted to put all this behind her, but it simply wasn't that easy. She couldn't snap her fingers and make the worry and fear go away. Being home was a relief, being with her boys more so. Her growling stomach broke the moment; the trio laughed. "Someone's hungry."

"Famished, actually," Emma agreed. "Everything smells fantastic. Thank you, guys."

"It was our pleasure." They returned to their usual places; Liam and Killian piling plates high with food. By unspoken agreement, they kept the conversation light; Killian didn't dare mention his conversation with Lily. There was no point in treading down that road until they had to. Emma knew of the plan to try and speak to Ioan, that was enough for now.

Emma hummed happily as she shoveled another bite of pancake into her mouth. "This is delicious," she said, mouth full.

"It was nice to cook again," Liam said, popping a grape in his mouth. "I missed it."

"We've been gone a while."

All three were quiet for a bit. They'd left their home with high hopes, knowing they were perfecting it for their future. None of them could have imagined what awaited them. If Emma had any inkling that Neal was still out there, she would have never returned to New York. Would it have mattered? In the long run, probably not. Neal had already tried to take Killian and Liam from her once. He would have tried again; she was certain of that.

"What are you thinking?" Killian didn't like the frown that creased her brow.

"Oddly enough, I was thinking about Neal."

"What about him?"

"He hurt so many people trying to get me back. He killed people." Emma shivered. "You didn't see him. He's insane."

"I think we got a glimpse of that," Liam grunted.

"I was just thinking that—as much as what happened to me, to us, sucks—we might have saved a lot of people. His organization is exposed now. The cops will do whatever it is they do and get the people who set those bombs at Whitehall. That's a good thing, right?"

Liam nodded. "Aye, that's a very good thing. Between the intel you gave them and everything Killian's been working on; the authorities should be able to finally get us all some answers. I'm so proud of both of you."

"Whatever is going on, it goes beyond Neal and his ilk, lass," Killian added. "We'll do everything we can to help, but selfishly, I wouldn't say no to getting our lives back to normal."

Emma laughed. "I don't think I remember what normal is anymore."

"Well then, we'll just have to remind you."

Once breakfast was over, they wouldn't allow Emma to clean up. Her job was to choose something to binge on Netflix. A day vegging in front of the television with her boys? Yes, please. There was a whole category of classic movies, some of which Emma hadn't seen in years. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, The Maltese Falcon, Citizen Cane. There were plenty of others; they would be set for the whole day.

A slamming car door got her attention; Emma froze for a second. Then she shook herself, mentally cursing herself for bring stupid. It was probably Mary Margaret and David come to check on them. She pulled the bit of the curtains back, just enough to see outside. There were the paps, of course, though not quite as many as the night before. Emma didn't understand what they did all day; it had to be quite chilly. It was still February after all. Some were perched on her neighbors' stoops; more leaned against cars. One car got her attention; she couldn't remember seeing it before.

"What are you looking at, lass?"

Emma snapped the curtain back. "Nothing. I thought I heard something." Killian quirked a brow at her. "Okay, fine. Has anyone around here gotten a new car?"

Killian shrugged. "Can't say I've noticed that. Why do you ask?"

"There's a car out there I don't recognize. But I'm probably being paranoid."

"Let me see." He took a peek; he saw straight away the car Emma noticed. It was black with tinted windows; he could have sworn there was someone sitting inside it.

"What are we looking at?"

"Car outside."

Liam frowned. "And why are we doing this?"

"Emma thought it looked suspicious."

That was concerning. Trauma or not, Liam trusted Emma's instincts. "Let me see." He pulled back the curtain and quickly found the car in question. Given everything they'd been through, it would do to be cautious. "Killian, do you think that might be a government car?"

"Why would you think that?"

"Well, the head of the investigation participated in Emma's interview. Perhaps Emma's concerns are theirs as well. It doesn't have to be nefarious." Liam realized that might sound naïve. After everything they'd experienced, he shouldn't have that kind of faith. But Emma's well being was more important. If he could put her mind at ease, then he would try.

Emma shivered. She didn't want to be right. She'd half convinced herself in the hours since her nightmare that she was just letting her fears get the better of her. "Is there a way to find out for sure? I don't know about you guys, but I don't think we can be too careful."

"Agreed."

Killian went to track down his phone. There was only one person he could think of that could confirm or deny anything. He dialed his superior. The phone rang three times before the captain answered. "Anderson."

"Good afternoon, sir."

"Jones? I have to confess that I didn't expect to be hearing from you, Commander."

"I didn't expect to be calling."

"How is your wife? I've had several of your colleagues inquiring."

"She's doing as well as can be expected," Killian said, winding his fingers through hers. "Much better now that we're home."

"I'm pleased to hear it. Please give her my best."

"I will do that, sir."

"But I imagine you had another reason for calling."

"I did actually." As succinctly as he could, he summarized the last few days. Anderson asked a few questions; Killian could hear a pen scratching.

"Your brother's instincts are sound," Anderson confirmed when Killian finished. "Although, no one has said anything to me. Would you like me to make some inquiries?"

"If it's not too much trouble."

"I can't say I'm overly fond of the idea of the government potentially snooping on one of our own," he replied seriously. "You've done good work for this department, Jones. You're an asset to the service. This is the least I can do."

"Thank you, sir." He was touched by the older man's praise; they'd had their disagreements over the last couple of months, but it was heartening to know that a man like Anderson had their back.

"What did he say?"

"He's not heard anything, but he's going to look into it. For the moment, I suggest we try to put it out of our minds."

Emma bit her lip. "Okay, I guess that's best. I wasn't planning on going out for a while anyway."

Killian hugged her close. "You're so brave, love. We'll figure this out, I promise."

Liam leaned in to kiss her hair. "Let's just enjoy being home for a while, yeah?"

Emma smiled. "Yeah, let's."

They settled on the couch; Emma sandwiched herself between the brothers. Liam snatched up the remote and began the first movie. He thought Emma's choices were interesting, but he didn't press her. He enjoyed a good mystery, especially when it didn't involve his loved ones.

It took Emma about an hour to completely relax, to forget the world outside. No one asked anything of her, no one wondered how she was feeling. She just wanted to feel like herself again. The afternoon passed peacefully, all three absorbed in the fictional world of the classics.

As the credits to The Maltese Falcon rolled, Liam kissed Emma's temple. "Hungry, love?"

"Food would be good. Maybe some wine?"

"I like the way your mind works, lass."

Emma brushed her lips over his, humming softly. "Nothing that takes a lot of effort though. Do we have some snacky food?"

Liam chuckled. "You say that like we forgot who we're married to, sweetheart."

"You're the best."

"Back soon. Don't start the next one without me."

"No problem." Emma stretched out languidly after Liam left her side; she licked her lips and arched, working out the kinks in her back. Killian swallowed heavily, the pale skin of her midriff peeking out from under her thin sweater. Emma spotted him staring at her, a smirk curving her lips. "Problem, Killian?"

"Certainly not." He felt a bit guilty for the desire that coiled in his belly; Emma couldn't hide how sexy she was, even if she tried.

Emma saw the war behind his eyes; she was touched by his concern. But she didn't want to change anything about what they were to each other. She wanted to feel normal; her desire and need for them was their normal. She might still be healing but being with them could only help her. She cupped his cheek, drawing his lips to hers. The kiss started chaste, but Emma was the first to deepen it, skimming her tongue across the seam of his lips. Killian growled low in his throat, cupping the back of her head and pulling her closer. Emma smiled into the kiss, boldly climbing into his lap. Her fingers lightly scratched over his cheeks, enjoying the way the coarse hairs rubbed her skin.

"Emma," Killian breathed as she wiggled in his lap. His blood quickly rushed south, making his pants tight.

"Shhh," she soothed. "It's okay. I'm still me, Killian." She encouraged him to touch her, shuddering in pleasure as his fingers dipped under her sweater and grazed her skin. She kissed him again, deeply, tongues stroking sinfully. Need pooled in her belly, familiar and comforting. She ground against him, pleased to feel the bulge of his cock between her legs. She didn't hide her need, her yearning for him, little sounds catching in her throat, her fingers plucking at the buttons of his shirt. Once his collar was exposed, she latched on to the skin there, teasing it with lips and teeth.

"Bloody hell," Killian groaned, his head falling back. Her sweater was bunched around his forearms, her skin hot under his fingertips. He skimmed over her straining nipples, still encased in her bra. She mewled, arching into his touch. "Fuck."

"Hmm, that's the idea," she murmured. Suddenly, she wanted—needed—Liam there. She needed his hands on her, his lips. She crossed her arms and yanked the sweater over her head. "Liam! Get back here!"

Liam frowned, wondering what was wrong. He quickly slipped the tray of snacks he was working on into the fridge, then he headed for the living room. It didn't take him long to figure out what was going on; Emma's needy sounds echoed down the hall. "Fucking hell," he growled. Sure enough, when he got into the living room, he found his wife perched in his brother's lap, nude from the waist up and making out like a woman starved. She was so stunning, pale and perfect; her lingering bruises only adding to her allure. She was with them again, safe and sound; he never wanted to let her go.

"I thought you were hungry," he said, his voice rougher than he intended. He couldn't help it; she never failed to have this effect on him. His jeans were already tight and getting tighter by the moment.

She flashed him a sexy grin, Killian's lips trailing down her throat. "I am," she confirmed. "Famished, actually." She'd been too tired when they first got home, then she gotten into her own head. She wanted this, she needed this. She needed them.

Liam obeyed her silent summons, his fingers sliding over the delicate skin of her shoulders. Emma hummed in pleasure, leaning into his touch. "Beautiful," he whispered, ducking down to find her lips. It was upside down, slightly awkward, but it made Emma's clit throb.

"Don't stop," she pleaded softly. "Please."

"Tell us what you want, lass."

"Just touch me." She guided Killian's lips to her breast, sucking in a ragged breath as he nipped and laved the sensitive peak. Then she coaxed Liam's hands down to the waistband of her pants, plucking open the fly. She bit her lip as he took over, easing his large hand past the elastic of her knickers and finding her swollen clit. "Ugh, so good," she breathed, the dual stimulation of their fingers and lips making her wetter.

Liam groaned, her arousal making his fingers slippery. "She's so fucking wet."

Emma grinded against his touch as best she could, his fingers circling her nub just the way she liked. "Make me come," she begged, gripping Killian's shoulders. "Fuck, make me come!"

Killian yanked her pants and knickers over her hips, tearing her knickers in the process. He slipped one hand under Liam's, pressing two fingers into her tight heat. Emma gasped, rising up on her knees, resting her weight against Liam's chest. She trusted him not to let her fall. The brothers worked her diligently, the wet sucking sounds of her sex ratcheting up their mutual need. Killian pinched her nipple hard, his fingers pumping steadily. He could feel her trembling in their arms, so close to shattering. "Let go, lass," he begged her. "Let go for us."

Emma screamed as she fell apart, her boys working her through her orgasm. She panted, eyes closed, feeling more like herself than she had since they left New York. And she needed more. She lifted Liam's hand to her lips, licking her essence from his skin. Both brothers groaned, fully aroused by her. "Take me to bed," she whispered, groaning as each brother cupped a breast and fondled her. "Please."

"Fucking minx," Liam swore, bending over and kissing her hungrily.

"You love it," she countered, her nails scraping over his shirt.

"God, I really do." He lifted her off Killian's lap and into his arms; Emma wound her legs around his waist as he kissed her senseless. Killian shrugged out of his shirt, his hands stroking up and down her bare back.

"Our gorgeous girl," he whispered into her skin.

"All ours," Liam agreed.

"Upstairs," Emma pleaded again. "I need you both to fuck me in our bed."

The brothers let out twin needy growls; Liam slipped his hands under her ass, holding her close so he could march her up their stairs. Emma licked and nibbled at his throat as he moved, unable to stop touching him. The moment they reached the top of the stairs Liam pinned her between himself and the wall, thrusting his clothed cock against her heat. "Fuck," she gasped, loving the long column of steel between her thighs. "Mine."

"Always," he agreed, kissing her deeply.

"Bed," she pleaded. "Bed."

He nodded, reluctantly setting her on her feet. Emma quickly found herself surrounded by her men, their hands on her body, removing her remaining clothes. They left her pants piled in the hall as they slowly made their way into the bedroom. This wasn't how Emma initially imagined christening their master suite, but in many ways, this was better. This was solely about them. She peeled Liam's shirt off his torso, her lips caressing the newly exposed skin. She flicked her gaze to Killian, nodding down at his pants. "Those staying on, sailor?" she asked, voice throaty.

"God, I love you," he growled, reaching to make quick work of his pants.

Emma dropped to her knees, her fingers deftly loosening Liam's belt. He bit his lip as Emma worked his pants open, her lips moving closer and closer to his erection. She pressed kisses along his shaft as she shoved the trousers down his legs. Liam had to move to step out of them; Emma turned her attention to Killian. He sucked in a shaky breath as she rubbed her cheek against the velvety smooth skin of his cock. "Emma."

She smiled up at him, her eyes twinkling with mirth. Her tongue darted out, licking him from root to tip, savoring the taste of him on her tongue. She felt Liam approach, his strong masculine presence making her clit throb. She reached up with her free hand, curling her fingers around his cock. Her fingers and mouth work in tandem, her need building higher and higher, arousal soaking her thighs. She switched, taking Liam into her mouth, hand stoking Killian. She relished their moans, their way they caressed and gripped her hair.

"So hot," Liam murmured, as Emma switched once more, tongue swirling around his tip, taking him deeply. "So fucking hot, love." He didn't know why sharing her was such a turn on for him, but it was.

Emma clenched her thighs, so desperate to be filled. "I'm so wet."

"Fuck." By silent mutual agreement, then brothers picked her up and dropped her on the bed. Emma arched, reaching for them, kissing one, then the other, her legs falling open. Liam was there first, his long fingers pushing inside her. Emma gasped, her hips rising off the bed. "Such a needy lass," he murmured into her neck.

"More," she pleaded, sinking her fingers into his curls. "God."

Killian kissed the side of her breast, his hand slipping between her legs. His cock twitched as he gently eased two more fingers into her wet channel; she stretched so deliciously to take them. Her body was a wonder, made to love them both. He and Liam found a rhythm that had her head thrashing and her legs shaking, her body poised for release. She was so gorgeous as she climaxed, her walls clenching around their fingers.

"Love you," Killian murmured. "So much."

Emma turned her head, kissing him even as she panted for breath. "Need you. Fuck, I need you both in me."

"Together?"

She shivered. "Later," she promised. "Like our first time."

Both brothers groaned. If she wanted them to fuck all night to keep nightmares away, they were her willing slaves. "Have her," Liam said to Killian. "Let me watch."

Emma turned, presenting her ass to Killian. He raised her right leg and angled her hips, taking her in one smooth thrust. Their groans of pleasure echoed in the room; Emma's eyes momentarily fell closed.

Liam reached out and touched her chin, forcing her to look at him. "Ah, ah, love," he scolded. "Look up."

Emma bit her lip; Christ, she'd nearly forgotten. In her exhaustion, she hadn't been able to appreciate some of the improvements they made to the room. She looked up, the image of Killian fucking her reflected back at her. She locked eyes with him, arching as her took her just a little bit harder. "Fuck," she breathed, sinking her fingers into his hair. "Just like that, Killian. So good."

Killian hitched her leg higher, changing the angle slightly. She was so tight and wet, her skin deliciously flushed. His gaze dropped to where they were joined, his cock glistening with her arousal. "Love the way you take me, darling. Feels so good around me."

Emma found his hand, curling her fingers around his. "Don't stop," she begged. As she watched, Liam approached, his lips caressing the curve of her breast. A jolt shook her. "Oh my god. More." His grin melted her, his mouth moving over her skin. Emma arched, loving the sensation of Killian inside her and Liam caressing her with his mouth. She couldn't stop staring at their reflection, mesmerized by the way they touched her.

Killian felt her shudder in pleasure, her walls contracting around him. He cursed, jerking into her deeply. "Emma, fuck."

"Harder," she breathed, dragging Liam's mouth to hers. "Fuck me harder!"

Liam responded hungrily to her kiss, groaning as her hand found his erection. She stroked him in time to Killian's thrusts, their skin slapping together. "This is so hot," he growled. "You love this, don't you, Emma?"

"Yes. Yes!" She shrieked as Liam deftly circled her clit, her orgasm sudden and hot and blinding. Her high dragged Killian with her, his deep groan of pleasure rumbling against her back. Emma felt him pulse deep inside her, branding her with his seed. She loved that, the deep feeling of possession they gave her. "Oh my god."

Liam brushed his lips over her damp brow. "You are glorious, love."

Emma hummed, running her hands over his chest. "Enjoy the show, sailor?"

"You know I do."

"Good, because we're not done yet." She placed a lingering kiss to his lips then turned. Killian had a lazy satisfied smile on his lips; Emma brushed her lips over his still racing heart. "I adore you."

"And I you, my darling." She bit her lip as Liam grabbed her around the waist and hauled her up to her knees. Emma could already feel Killian's seed leaking from her; she giggled as Liam pulled her flush against his chest.

"You are a naughty girl," Liam growled, maneuvering her hips. They both gasped as he entered her, the angle of her hips forcing him deep. She was still wet from being with Killian. Liam could feel it, relishing her swollen freshly fucked cunt. "I love it."

Emma bounced on his lap, reaching behind her to fist his hair. "Now who's naughty," she teased, dragging his hand to her breast. He squeezed roughly, earning him a needy moan.

"Only for you," he whispered. It was true. He'd never been tempted by anything like this before he met her. Now, he lived for it. Her pleasure was his; he would do anything for her.

"Mine. Both of you are mine."

"Yours, all yours." He kissed her shoulder, easing her forward. Emma braced herself on her elbows, deep moan catching in her throat as Liam rode her, each stroke deep and firm and perfect. He gripped her hips, giving into his intense need for her. Emma fisted the sheet, his cock striking just the right spot. Pleasure spiked through her; she started rocking back instinctively, desperate to take every last inch of him. "Bloody hell."

Emma moved faster, another orgasm coiling low in her belly. "Need to come," she breathed. "Fuck."

Liam grunted, bending over her, his hips moving with short hard thrusts. He felt her climax, her walls rippling around him; he didn't fight the urge to follow her. Pleasure coursed through him, hers feeding his. He brushed his lips over her sweaty back, murmuring his love for her into her skin.

The pair collapsed into the bed, Liam cradling Emma against his chest. She smiled as he tightened his hold, fingers splayed over her belly. "Perfect way to christen our new bedroom."

Emma chuckled, having a similar thought earlier. "Still the same bed," she replied.

"Hmm, perhaps, but everything else is new."

Killian appeared with a damp cloth; Emma hummed as he cleaned her up. His touch was gentle and loving; Emma reminded herself for the thousandth time why she was so glad she took a chance on this. No matter what happened, they loved her, they supported her. No one could take that away.

Killian settled in across from them, tugging the sheet over them. "What's going on in that head I wonder?"

"Not much at the moment," she replied with a soft smile. "But you should definitely consider that a compliment."

He chuckled. "I think we shall, won't we, brother?"

"Indeed, we will." His lips touched Emma's shoulder. "Hungry now, love?"

"In a little bit," she promised, stretching out in his arms. "I just wanna stay here for a while."

"You forget, lass, that we are a full service establishment," Killian murmured. "Snacks coming right up."

"And wine?"

"Anything you like." He would be sure to bring some water along with the wine, but she was adorable. He loved a joyful sated look on her face after being well fucked.

"Sure, you're alright, love?" Liam murmured, stroking her belly.

She thought about it for a moment. "Yeah. I think the hardest thing will be accepting that I won't be alright all the time. Does that make sense?"

He nodded. "Aye. But you know that how we feel for you will never change, even on those not good days."

"Let's hope there will be more good days then."

"It will get better," he promised. "I guarantee there will be times when it won't feel like it—"

"Like last night?"

"Something like that. Even if you have nightmares for the rest of our lives, Killian and I will be right here with you."

They'd been telling her that since she was rescued—and she believed it—but that was different from knowing. Looking in Liam's gorgeous blue eyes she couldn't not know. "Even after all this time, that's still…"

"Hard to accept?"

"All I could think about was making sure you both were safe."

"Funny, that's all we could think about too."

"So, what does that say about us?"

"That we love each other very much." He kissed her forehead. "We were a mess without you."

"That I can believe." Killian appeared with a tray piled high with snacks. "You're the best."

"Don't go crazy until I come back with the wine, okay?" In less than three minutes he was back, another tray filled with glasses and a bucket hanging from his arm. "How about some white wine to go with our feast?"

"That's perfect."

It felt like old times, the trio relaxing in bed following a round of intense satisfying sex. Emma could almost forget their misadventures in New York, especially if she didn't look up at her reflection. There were still some bruises and scrapes marring her skin, especially her wrists. She kept glancing around their new suite, falling more in love with it by the moment. It truly did feel like a sanctuary, something she hadn't realized how desperately she needed.

"Emma? Something wrong, lass?"

She shook her head. "No, I just…this is perfect for us. I didn't get to appreciate it last night." She especially liked the photos and art that hung on the walls, encapsulating their life together so far. Their wedding photo lay in silver frame on her new vanity; they'd been so happy that day. She wanted to find that kind of joy again.

Liam followed her gaze. "Aye, you did a wonderful job, Killian."

Killian's cheeks tinged pink. "Thanks." He lifted Emma's hand to his lips and kissed it. "All for you, love."

"For all of us," Emma corrected. "This is our space."

"I'm glad you like it."

Emma stretched out under the sheets. "Now I could use a nap."

"That sounds a like a great idea." Killian moved the trays of food to the floor then rejoined them, spooning against Emma's back. It was still relatively early in the evening; Killian was disappointed but not surprised that neither Lily nor Captain Anderson had returned his calls. There wasn't anything he could do about it, so he allowed Emma's steadying breathing lull him into sleep.

Emma arched; her restraints prevented her from moving as much as she wanted. The feeling of being restrained sent shivers of pleasure down her spine, settling at the apex of her thighs. Blindfolded, she couldn't see her tormentors; she could only feel. It was incredible.

"Hmm, so pretty," a familiar voice murmured, fingers stroking the bare skin of her mound. "Isn't she pretty like this, brother?"

"Aye." Emma gasped as the biting cold of an ice cube circled her areola; her nipples tightened painfully. A warm wet mouth sealed over each of them to soothe the sting; Emma tried desperately to close her legs, the ache in her core too much. The fact that she couldn't only made her burn hotter.

"She's dripping," Liam growled, probing her slit. "We've barely touched her."

"She needs this," Killian replied, pinching her nipple. Emma keened, bucking off the bed. She cried out, need scorching her veins. Something cold touched her skin; Emma moaned loudly as the sharp bite of the clamps on her swollen nipples went straight to her clit. Warm lips wrapped around it, sucking hard. She screamed, white hot pleasure seeming to burn her from the inside out. When she finally came back to herself, she whimpered, realizing that yet another clamp squeezed her clit.

"Fuuuuck," she moaned, involuntarily tugging on her restraints. "Oh fuck."

A mouth, hot and wet, covered hers, kissing her breathless. "We're going to fuck you," Liam growled, climbing atop her. He was naked; Emma could just imagine him above her, firm and toned, his muscles straining. She wanted to worship his body, lick him from head to toe, and yet, she didn't want them to stop touching her. They both groaned out loud, his long thick cock grinding over her soaking sex. "You're so fucking sexy like this. Tied up, chained. Feel how badly I need you."

Emma bit her lip, trying to grind harder into him. "Please," she begged softly. "Please, Liam."

She cried out in frustration as he pulled away, her core clenching desperately. Didn't they know how badly she needed them inside her? All she could do was beg, plead for them to grant her the relief she so desperately desired.

Liam stirred awake; something was wet. He blinked against the darkness; he quickly became aware of Emma beside him. She was whimpering; at first, he thought she was having another nightmare. Moonlight kissed her skin; it didn't him long to realize that she wasn't whimpering from fear, but arousal. Intense arousal. He could smell her. It also explained why there was a growing damp spot on the sheets. "Fuck," he groaned, his imagination going in a thousand directions at once. Whatever she was dreaming about, it had to be very, very good. As pleased as that made him, it was the sweetest kind of torture.

Emma twisted in the sheets, her hips gyrating enticingly. Why should she dream about her pleasure when they could give her what she needed? Liam tugged the mussed sheet off her nude form, scooting down to spread her thighs. Her arousal hit him full force; he went from half hard to full mast in an instant. "Bloody hell," he whispered, his lips grazing the delicate skin of her thigh. He'd never wanted a woman with the intensity that he wanted Emma. The only rival to this feeling was the love he had for her. She showed him that he was only half living before he met her, a slave to his duty. He couldn't thank her enough.

Inhaling her one more time, he licked the length of her, moaning as her flavor burst on his tongue. He could spend hours between her thighs and often did. He didn't stop, lapping at her, teasing her weeping hole with his tongue. "Fuck, Emma," he breathed, curling his arms around her thighs to hold her in place.

Emma whined as she woke; the ache in her core almost painful. She'd been having such an amazing dream; why was she awake? Why did she feel so good? Something warm and wet dragged over her swollen flesh and she gasped. Oh fuck. Sleepily, she raised her head, Liam's curls glowed in the moonlight. "Shit."

Liam grinned. "She wakes."

"Ugh, don't stop," she breathed, reaching for him. "So good."

He kissed her tight nub. "What were you dreaming about?"

"Sex," she whispered.

"That was obvious," he replied, the vibrations of his voice going right through her. "You were so aroused that you wet the sheets."

"Fuck." She bucked in his hold, trying to get his mouth back on her. She moaned loudly as he tongue fucked her, his fingertips digging into her skin. Her writhing woke Killian, who blinked blearily.

"What's happening?" Emma moaned again, giving him an answer. "Fucking hell." This was his favorite way to wake up, Emma writhing in pleasure. "Our wife is feeling needy tonight." He ran his hand over her lithe form, gently cupping her breast. He wasn't surprised; she'd all but jumped him earlier. When Emma was in this state, they did all they could to satisfy her needs. She wanted to feel normal; this was their normal.

Emma nodded, biting her lip as Killian teased her nipple. It hardened under his touch; she vaguely recalled her dream Killian, clamping her and toying with her. "Please don't stop touching me."

"Never, darling." Killian kissed the soft swell of her breast, his hand skimming over her flat belly.

"She was dreaming about us, brother," Liam murmured, kissing her clit. "I couldn't resist her scent."

"Were you now?" Killian asked, a lecherous grin on his face. "What were we doing to you?"

She could hardly think, the images flickering behind her closed lids. "I was…tied up. To the bed, I think."

"Hmm, I like this already." If she could have such an erotic dream so soon after her ordeal, then he would take that as a good sign. They wouldn't rush her, but he was confident she would be alright. "What else?"

She wet her lips, an orgasm distressingly out of reach. Liam kept her on the edge of coming, teasing her horribly. "Clamps. On my nipples. And my…shit, on my clit." It had been so long since they indulged in something so brazenly naughty. Suddenly, she wanted it. Badly.

Both brothers cursed, that erotic image making their cocks twitch. "Sweetheart," Liam growled. "You're killing me."

"Do it," she begged, reaching for them. "I want those chains against my skin. I want you both inside me."

"Emma…" Killian normally never question her desires, but she'd only recently gone through something intense.

"I need it," she pleaded. "I need us the way we are. Please."

"As you wish." Trusting Liam to keep her needy and aroused, Killian climbed from the bed, pausing briefly to switch on the lamp before opening the chest. The cool air of the room made him hiss, his cock aching with need. He located the clamps and delicate chains by feel alone; he also brought a tube of lube. Emma's little whimpers and moans were driving him crazy; by the time he returned, she was perched in Liam's lap, grinding over his erection and kissing him hungrily.

Emma groaned into the kiss, Killian's fingers trailing up her back. "Fuck."

"Lean against me," he whispered. "Liam's going to get you ready."

Emma nodded, reveling in the solid feel of his furred chest. Liam sat up and sucked one nipple into his mouth, worshiping her. Every pull of his lips made her clit throb with need; she ground harder against him. The hard ridge of his cock rubbed her deliciously; she felt like a live wire of want. Liam switched nipples, moving back and forth until both nipples were sharp aching points. She breathed deeply as he took the clamps from Killian and attached them to her nipples.

"Shit," she cursed, the bite expected but intense.

"Alright, sweet?"

"Hmmm, yeah." To prove her point, she moved her hips, working herself over Liam's cock.

"Fucking hell," Liam gasped. She was so wet, so hot. "Christ, love."

"Feels so good," she breathed, hanging on to Killian. "Want it inside me." Killian's cock was nestled against her ass, big and hard and throbbing. "Want you both inside me."

"You're get what you want, darling. Soon." Liam took the final clamp from his brother, attaching one end of the chain to the other that dangled between her breasts. He stroked her clit roughly, making her buck against him. "Hold her still, Killian."

Killian gripped her hips, forcing her to stop moving. His lips latched on to her throat, distracting her with hot needy kisses. Emma mewled and whined, gasping as the clamp bit into her flesh. An intense wave of lust shot through her, drenching Liam's cock. "Oh shit, shit."

"Still okay, love?"

"More than," she promised, dragging Liam close to she could kiss him hungrily. "Fuck me. Fuck me."

"Patience." Liam eased her back into Killian's arms. "You two play while I prep her."

"Gladly." He thrust his cock against her ass. "We're going to have lots of fun, aren't we, lass?"

"God, please!"

He flopped in the center of the bed, lifting her up so her dripping cunt hovered over his mouth. Emma whined in pleasure as he enthusiastically ate her out; instinctively, she bent over him, raising her ass in the air. The bed dipped behind them; in the next breath, Liam's mouth started licking her puckered hole. Emma shivered, the weight of the clamps and chains only increasing her desire. Her eyes fell closed, allowing her to sink into a pleasurable haze, her boys working her holes. The cold lube jerked her out of it; Emma moaned deeply as a single long finger slowly stretched her.

"Oh, fuck yes."

Liam pressed a kiss to the small of her back, adoring his sensual gorgeous wife. She was so desperate for them; he'd never known a woman as responsive as Emma. He worked in a second finger, scissoring gently, his other hand pulling slowly on his cock. "Look at yourself," he ordered firmly. "Look what we do to you."

Emma raised her head, focusing on the mirror across the room. They'd added the extra mirrors deliberately, for just this purpose. They were all voyeurs, enjoying each other's pleasure. Emma swallowed heavily, pushing herself up just a little. The chains stood out against her pale skin, her clamped nipples and clit swollen and red. A little gasp escaped as Killian added his fingers to her cunt, pumping slowly. A tease for what was to come. "Oh god, oh god."

"Suck Killian's cock, sweet. Let me see you."

Emma dropped to her elbows, taking Killian between her lips. She bobbed in time with their thrusts, sucking greedily. She whined in complaint as Liam's fingers left her; Killian groaned as the vibrations ran along his sensitive cock. She was slowly driving him mad.

Liam positioned himself at her rear entrance, quickly coating his cock with more lube. He entered her slowly, her ass stretching to take him. "Bloody fuck. So fucking tight."

Emma inhaled sharply, pushing back instinctively. "God yes."

Killian grit his teeth, desperate to feel her around him too. "Suck me, love. Need you so much."

Emma hurried to obey, trying to set a rhythm of her rocking back and forth. Liam felt so large inside her; she reveled in the feel of him. She sucked Killian's rock hard cock between her lips, deliberately trying to make him as crazy as they made her. When she took them both, she wanted it to be wild and passionate and fiery.

Killian closed his eyes, raising his head to lap at her clamped clit. Emma howled, her nails biting into his skin. "Killian, fuck!"

"Need you, love. Right now."

She nodded. "Yes, yes. God yes!"

Liam slipped from her reluctantly, lifting her off Killian. She settled against his back, panting heavily. "We're going to take you now, Emma. Is that what you want?"

She whimpered. "Yes, Liam. I want it. I need it. Please."

"Very well." He leaned back against the raised pillows, settling Emma in his lap. Emma bit her lip as Killian approached, his fingers toying lightly with the chains that rested on her belly. Each light tug sent waves of lust shooting through her; it was the pleasurable sort of pain she loved. She loved it because she knew beyond any doubt that she was safe; these men adored her, loved her with every fiber of their being. She wouldn't allow anyone to take this from her. An especially sharp tug made her gasp; Killian frowned. "Alright, lass?"

She smiled, her eyes dropping to his weeping erection. "I'll be more alright once I have you both inside me," she replied honestly. "But, I promise, this is right. We're right." She had a long road ahead of her, but as long as they stood beside her, she knew she would be okay. They would be okay.

Killian nodded, leaning in to capture her lips in a kiss. His erection pressed into her belly; she couldn't resist the urge to stroke him. "Fuck, love."

"Hurry," she begged softly. "God, hurry."

Liam raised her hips. "Hang on to Killian, Emma." She did as he bid; they both moaned as she took him back inside her distended hole, stretching her once more. She sighed as she leaned back against his chest, wiggling her hips a bit. "Fuck."

"Hmm, yes," she breathed, rocking steadily, fully aware of Killian's gaze burning into her. She looked up, their tableau fully on display. She looked thoroughly debauched, hair wild, skin flushed, nipples and clit painfully swollen. She reached over her head to hang on to the solid weight of their headboard, then glanced back at Killian, silently daring him to take her.

"Fuck, I love you," he growled as he inched closer between his brother's spread legs. Emma was gorgeous, a siren, he swore he would never have his fill of her. She hissed as he teased her swollen sex with the belled head of his cock; she was very aroused, wetness dripping from her. Slowly, Killian pushed inside, sliding a little deeper with each shallow thrust. Both Emma and Liam were whimpering with need by the time Killian was fully seated within her, filling her completely. It was like being made and unmade at a stroke; Emma was a ball of utter bliss.

"Oh my god," she panted. "Oh my god. You both feel incredible. Move, please fucking move!"

"Hang on," Killian warned her again. They were well versed in how to please her now; no words were necessary. Liam moved with shallow thrusts up into her; Killian placed his hands on either side of hers so he could take her with long deep strokes. Emma climaxed almost immediately; the grind of his pelvis over her clamped clit too much for her. She shuddered and shook, yet they didn't stop. God, she didn't want them to stop. She wanted this feeling to go on forever. Liam's hands held her legs open; she could feel him trembling beneath her. Needy whimpers she hardly recognized as her own tumbled from her lips; an agonized cry rent the air when they slowed—almost to a stop.

"Please, please. So good."

Liam kissed her shoulder. "I know, darling. We can feel you."

Killian reached down and tugged hard on the chain; Emma let out a little scream. "There's my girl," he whispered. "Love when you take us both. Feels incredible."

"Yes, yes. Please don't stop. Please!"

Killian kissed her hard, thrusting deeply at the same time. Emma released the headboard and clung to him, hanging on for dear life as they used her. Every thrust jolted the clamps around her most sensitive areas; she didn't know this could feel this amazing. The next time she climaxed it was one long wave of ecstasy, until she didn't know where she ended and they began. The feeling of them jerking and pulsing inside her, branding her with their seed sent her even higher until the world went black.

Liam could feel his own high rushing through him; he could hardly move. Emma still lay across his chest, not moving save her steady breathing. If not for that, he might have been worried. Killian had already gone to fetch a damp cloth; they wanted to get her cleaned up a bit before removing the clamps. If anything could rouse her, it would be that.

"Still out?" Killian asked, helping him lay Emma out on the bed.

"Like a light," Liam confirmed. He kissed her damp brow; she looked much more fragile asleep. Fragile but still beautiful. Emma didn't stir as they gently washed her; she would surely want a bath later. They'd used her body well; it would take her a couple of days to recover fully. Which was fine with Liam. Emma needed to rest.

Killian set about removing the clamps; Emma did stir, a little. She whimpered and jerked as each nipple clamp was removed, the blood rushing back into them all at once. They'd done this before when she'd been awake; Killian knew it hurt. Emma never complained; she seemed to want to test how much she could handle. He removed the clit clamp last; Emma's eyes fluttered open for a brief second as she gasped, but she quickly fell back into a deep sleep. The toys were dropped unceremoniously into one of the bathroom sinks—they had two now—and Killian returned to his wife.

"I hope she sleeps," he murmured as he pulled the blanket back up. There was still the matter of the damp spot, but the bed was large enough that they could avoid it. "Poor lass is exhausted."

"And won't admit it," Liam added. "While I'm not opposed to this way of wearing her out, she can't do this forever."

"Avoid dealing with what happened?"

"Aye. We both know that leads nowhere good."

"To be fair, we only just got home, brother."

"I know. I just…worry about her."

"As do I."

"Still, it's good to be home."

"Aye, home." Killian looked at Emma; she was home. They were together, safe and sound. It was all he could ask for. Whatever came next, they would face it. Together.