Liam looked helplessly at his brother, seeing the anguish in his eyes over losing the woman he had come to care for, and knew he couldn't give up on trying to bring her back to life. With renewed determination, he turned back to Emma and began pumping her chest again, all the while chanting, "Come on, lass! Come on!"

He gave her three rescue breaths and pumped her chest twice more, then she suddenly coughed and sputtered, pitching forward and spewing water out of her mouth. Liam gently pounded her on the back as Arthur and Gwen cheered.

"Emma!" Killian gasped, surging forward to gather her into his arms. She continued to cough and gag as she held onto him.

"Welcome back, lass," Liam said, smiling with relief.

With the crisis averted, Arthur settled back into the captain's chair and started the engine, then turned the boat and continued moving cautiously through the bay. Liam and Gwen resumed their seats too, but Killian and Emma remained on the deck of the boat, clinging to each other tightly.

"I thought I lost you," he murmured into her ear.

"I'm s-sorry," she whispered, beginning to shiver, both from being wet and the shock of what had just happened to her. Gwen stood up and moved across the back of the boat to lift the top of the bench seat, pulling out an armful of towels, which she handed to Killian.

He unfolded and draped two of them around Emma, then one over his own shoulders. Using another, he began to dry her hair, all the while telling her how relieved he was that she survived.

Liam watched the scene in front of him and realized his brother had already fallen hard and fast for the lovely lass they had just met less than half a day ago, although it seemed more like an eternity after all they'd been through together.

xxxxxxxxx

Fifteen minutes later, Arthur steered the boat up to the pier closest to Millbrae. As the trio began to disembark, Arthur stopped Liam and returned the money Killian had given him earlier. "This trip is on me," he said firmly.

"Thank you, mate," Liam said, shaking the man's hand.

Gwen hugged all three of them, saying, "Take care and stay safe."

Liam carefully climbed onto the dock, then turned, put both hands around Emma's waist and lifted her easily to set her beside him. Killian shook Arthur's hand also, expressing his thanks, then joined his brother and Emma on the platform. All three of them waved as the boat pulled away, heading further down the bay.

"How far away is your apartment?" Killian asked, wrapping his arm around Emma's waist to give her extra support, since she was still weak from her ordeal.

"About a twenty minute walk from here. There's a dollar store a few blocks away that's always open late, where I think we should stop and get you guys some clothes, sleepwear and other essentials. I know it won't be top quality, but at least you could change out of those clothes."

"I don't care what kind of quality they are," Liam uttered. "I can hardly wait to get out of these bloody clothes."

"And he means that quite literally," Killian chuckled.

"We really should go directly to the Medical Center to get you guys checked out, though," Emma said.

"And you, as well," Killian stated. "Near drowning can cause all sorts of complications."

"Where is the Medical Center?" Liam asked.

Emma pointed off to the left. "It's about a mile away."

"Do you think you can walk that far, Love?" Killian asked.

"Yeah, I should be okay," she said, squeezing his side and resting her head on his shoulder. "How about you, Liam? Is your leg feeling up to it?"

"Aye, it will be a stroll in the park compared to what I've put it through already."

They walked along the streets, relieved to see less damage and chaos than there had been in San Francisco, although the impact of the earthquake was still evident. Killian could tell that Emma was becoming fatigued when they finally came within sight of the Medical Center, so he pulled her closer into his side and walked at a slower pace, which Liam matched immediately.

The trio entered the emergency room and saw several other people waiting for medical attention. Killian led Emma to a seat while Liam got them registered and collected the paperwork to be filled out.

The wait wasn't as long as expected and the medical staff was thorough and efficient, despite the fact they had more than likely been extremely busy all day. Killian's hand was X-rayed and found to have multiple breaks, which were set, but because of the extensive swelling, it was put into a brace that would be replaced with a cast in a few days.

Liam's leg required forty-six stitches, inside and out because the cut was so deep, and he was put on an antibiotic and given a tetanus shot. He reported that the worst part was having the wound thoroughly cleaned to prevent any infection, although the physician complimented the care given to it prior to Liam coming in for medical treatment.

Emma went through extensive testing to ensure her lungs weren't showing adverse effects of her near drowning. The doctor recommended keeping her for observation overnight, but she insisted on going home and was given a list of warning signs with the stipulation that she return immediately if she noticed any of them. She was also given antibiotics as a precautionary measure to prevent infection.

By the time they were finished, darkness, exhaustion and hunger had set in and they opted to call for a Lyft driver to take them to Emma's neighborhood, where they first stopped at the dollar store and then an In-and-Out Burger before making their way to her apartment.

She unlocked the door and the three of them entered and collapsed onto her sofa. It was several minutes before Killian worked up enough energy to begin opening the take-out bags to distribute the food.

They ate in silence, the exhaustion and utter disbelief of what they had experienced that day rendering them unable to think of anything to say. When the food was gone, they slumped into the couch with Emma's head resting on Killian's shoulder as he wrapped his arm around her and caressed her arm.

After several minutes, Liam finally sighed and pulled his phone out. "I should see about getting us a hotel room." He cursed when he realized his battery was dead. "Can I use yours, Killian?"

"Why don't you guys just stay here?" Emma yawned. "I have a queen size bed the two of you can share and I'll take the couch."

"Emma, we shouldn't impose on you like that," Liam protested mildly.

"It's not imposing - I want you here. After what we've been through, I really don't want to be alone tonight. Please stay."

Killian pressed a kiss to her temple. "Alright, Love. We won't leave you alone, but we're not going to make you give up your bed."

"I'm the only one who can fit on this couch to sleep, and I'm used to it. I fall asleep on it in front of the TV at least a couple times a week."

"In that case, Liam can take the bed and I'll sleep on the floor out here. That way I'll be right here if you start showing any of the signs the doctor warned you about."

"Killian…"

"No arguments, Swan. I insist."

She gave him a tired smile, then turned to Liam. "Do you want to use the shower first? I don't think I have the energy yet, and I'm pretty cozy right now." She snuggled further into Killian's side to prove her point.

"A shower sounds like absolute heaven," Liam said, stretching his arms above his head. "Just point me in the right direction."

"Down the hallway, first door on the left. It's only a one bedroom apartment, so there's not much chance of getting lost."

Liam chuckled and collected the dollar store bags off the floor.

"Don't forget to cover your wound with the plastic bandage they gave you at the Medical Center," Emma reminded him.

"Yes, ma'am!" he called over his shoulder on his way down the hall.

Emma and Killian soon heard the sound of the shower and she turned her face up to look at him. "I think this has been the worst and best day of my life."

"I completely understand the worst part, but why do you say it's the best?"

"Because I met you."

A grin stretched across his face, then he dipped his head to capture her lips, sharing a sweet and languid kiss with her. Keeping his forehead pressed against hers, he whispered, "It's been my best and worst day too, Love. I'm very glad we met and were together through everything."

"Do you think you and Liam will move here?" she asked, caressing the nape of his neck with the tips of her fingers.

"If I have my way, we will, even if he doesn't end up getting that job. I'm sure he'll be able to get one elsewhere. He's an excellent civil engineer - the top in his class at Uni," he said proudly.

"What do you think you'll do?"

"I plan to take some classes, possibly online just as you're doing. I've always wanted to study literature."

"Do you want to be a teacher?"

"Perhaps, but that degree would also allow me to be a writer or librarian."

"So you like to write, too?"

"Aye. Writing and music have always been ways for me to express myself."

"You must be very talented."

He shrugged. "I don't know how talented I am, but they bring me enjoyment."

They fell silent for a few moments until Emma murmured, "I know we've only known each other for a few hours, but I felt a connection to you as soon as we met. I'd really like to explore these feelings and see where they take us."

"I feel the same, Love."

They heard the shower turn off and knew Liam would soon be joining them, so Killian took the opportunity to share another lingering kiss with the woman in his arms. "Mmm, you're really good at that," Emma said, licking her lips.

"That's nice to hear, since I haven't had very much practice," he admitted.

Her eyes widened in surprise. "You're kidding."

"Nope. I haven't dated many women or had them falling at my feet."

"That's hard to believe. A sweet, gorgeous, sexy guy like you, and you play guitar in a band. You should be able to get any woman you want!"

He gave a low chuckle. "Well, there's only one woman I want, and she's right here."

Liam emerged from the bathroom just as they were sharing another kiss, clearing his throat to alert them of his presence.

Emma giggled as they broke apart from each other, wiping her thumb across Killian's bottom lip, then running it across his cheekbone. "Do you want to shower next?"

"I can wait, you go ahead."

"That's okay. I kinda want to watch the news to get some updates. Do you need help getting your brace off?"

"If you don't mind. The doctor said I could take it off to shower, as long as I'm careful."

Emma carefully undid the velcro on the brace, lifting his hand out of it gingerly when she finished. "Did he say to continue icing it?"

"Aye. I'll do that after I'm done showering." He kissed her on the cheek before rising from the couch.

"Your clothes are already in the bathroom," Liam told him, taking a seat on the sofa. "Bloody hell, it feels good to be clean and in comfortable clothes," he sighed.

"Did you have any trouble getting your wound redressed?"

"Not really. I'm sure you could have done a better job of it, but I managed."

Emma reached down between the cushions to retrieve the remote control and flicked on the TV. Immediately, images of the destruction in San Francisco filled the screen and the voice of the reporter droned on about damage and casualty estimates.

Both of them sat watching, stunned to see aerial views of the area as well as those on the ground. "I can't believe we lived through that," Liam commented.

Emma hit the button to switch it off. "Yeah, I know, and I think I've seen enough of it for the day."

"I completely agree."

"Would you like something to drink?"

"You wouldn't happen to have any tea, would you?"

"I actually think I do have some tea bags around here somewhere," she said, getting to her feet.

Liam followed her across the room into the small, cramped kitchen and watched as she opened and closed a couple of cupboards before finding a box of tea bags.

"These things don't expire, do they? I think I bought them when I had a sore throat about a year ago."

Liam laughed. "I'm sure they're fine. I don't suppose it's Earl Grey, is it?"

"Huh?"

He laughed again. "Never mind, lass. Where are your mugs?"

She opened another cupboard, revealing a mismatched collection of mugs, chose three of them and set them on the counter. Then she got out a large glass measuring cup, filled it with water from the faucet and placed it in the microwave. After hitting a few buttons and starting it, she watched Liam placing a tea bag in each cup.

"You and my brother seem to be very attracted to one another," he commented softly.

"Yeah, we were just talking about that. I know it seems crazy, but…"

"The two of you developing feelings for each other is the least crazy thing to happen all day, Emma."

"You aren't upset, are you?"

He turned to face her. "I'm very protective of my brother, as I'm sure you've already figured out. Growing up as we did, I've always watched over him and tried to steer him in the right direction. He hasn't always been amenable to my advice, but I just can't help myself. He's my little brother and I never want him to get hurt."

"First of all, if he hears you call him 'little brother', he's gonna tear you a new one. Secondly, I would never hurt him. He's a good man; both of you are. Besides saving my life at least three times today, you've proven yourselves to be the kindest, strongest, most noble people I've ever met, and I love that you're protective of him. I've never had a family of my own and I've always wanted a big brother. I can't think of anyone better for that role than you, Liam."

He wrapped her up in a warm hug and kissed the crown of her head. "You're very special yourself, lass. And to answer your question - no, I am not upset."

The microwave beeped and he pulled away from her to remove the measuring cup, filling each mug with the boiling water. Killian entered the kitchen, dressed in plaid sleep pants and a clean, white T-shirt, rubbing a towel through his hair. Emma drew in a breath at seeing his muscles flexing, along with his tousled, wet hair. The combination was intoxicating to her.

"Shower's all yours, Swan," he announced, oblivious to her flushed cheeks.

"I'm going to have the tea Liam and I just prepared, first. We made a cup for you, too."

She put some ice in a ziplock bag and handed it to him, then the two of them sat on the rickety bar stools, while Liam leaned against the counter sipping his tea and observing the besotted looks on the two people in front of him. He knew everything had happened impossibly fast, but there was no denying the bloom of first love on both of their faces.

xxxxxxxxx

After they finished their tea, Emma helped Killian put his brace back on, then took her turn in the shower. While she was in the bathroom, Killian sought out her small linen closet and found some sheets and a blanket. He used them to make up a bed for Emma on the sofa.

Liam ventured into her bedroom and returned carrying an extra pillow and a comforter, which he spread out in front of the couch. "Are you sure you're going to be able to sleep on the floor, brother?"

"I've slept in worse places, and after the day we've had, I could probably sleep on a bed of nails. I'm beyond exhausted."

"Aye, I'm completely wrung out myself, physically and emotionally. It's been a long, fucking day."

Without warning, Killian moved to his brother and pulled him into a strong embrace. "There were moments when I wondered if we were going to make it through today, and I…well, I guess it made me appreciate you more than ever. I can't imagine my life without you. I love you, Liam."

"Love you too, Killian."

Killian stepped back and glanced up just in time to see his brother wipe away a tear. He wasn't quite sure what else to say, and was a little relieved when Emma came back into the room at that moment. She was dressed in a long T-shirt and a pair of yoga pants, her hair wrapped up in a towel, turban-style and a hairbrush in her hand.

"I, um, I hope you don't mind that Killian and I went searching for some bed linens while you were in the shower," Liam said.

"Not at all. I'm glad you guys are making yourselves at home. I don't know what's going to happen in the coming days or what plans you have, but I want you to know that you're welcome to stay here for as long as you like. I know it's tiny and I don't have much to offer…"

"I think you've done very well for yourself, lass," Liam assured her, and Killian nodded his agreement. "If you don't mind having us as houseguests for a few days, we happily accept. I'm going to brush my teeth and collapse into bed now." He gave Emma a hug. "Thanks again for giving up your bed for me."

"No problem. Sleep well, Liam."

"You, too." He clapped his brother on the shoulder on his way past and limped down the hall to the bathroom.

Emma unwrapped the towel, draped it over the back of one of the bar stools, and began fluffing out her hair. Killian watched, his breath catching in his throat at her beauty. When she started to run the brush through her blonde locks, he cleared his throat. "Could I, uh, would you mind if I…did that for you?"

"Not at all. Umm, here," she said, shyly handing him the brush, then going over to sit on the sofa, turning so her back was to him. He sat beside her and slowly drew the brush through the thick strands of her hair, marveling at the cascade of gold flowing over his hand.

When not a single snarl remained and her hair was nearly dry from his careful attention, she breathed out a sigh and said, "Thank you, Killian. That felt nice and, I don't know, sort of…intimate, if you know what I mean."

"I agree. It was very enjoyable for me, as well." He set the brush on the arm of the sofa, pulled her hair aside and kissed the back of her neck, relishing her purr of contentment. It was followed by a huge yawn, causing Killian to chuckle. "I think it's time to get some sleep, Love. I'm going to brush my teeth. Be right back." He collected the hairbrush, stood up, kissed the top of her head, and left the room.

She stretched out on the couch, tossing the pillow he had placed there onto the floor for him to use and grabbing a small throw pillow that was on top of the sofa propped up against the wall instead. Covering up with the blanket, she dropped the extra sheet on the floor, too.

By the time Killian re-entered the living room, Emma was already asleep. He smiled at her form, curled up on the couch, brushed some strands of hair away from her face, and bent to press a kiss to her temple. "Goodnight, Love," he whispered, then laid down on the comforter beside the couch, fluffed the pillow under his head, pulled the sheet over himself, and immediately fell into a deep sleep.

xxxxxxxxx

They were all moving sluggishly the next morning, taking inventory of their aches and pains and swallowing Tylenol to alleviate them to some degree.

Killian made a trip down the block to bring back coffee and donuts for breakfast. "How does it look out there, brother?" Liam asked, when he returned, relieving him of the bag of donuts.

"The sun is shining and people are out and about. If it weren't for the clean-up equipment removing piles of rubble here and there, you wouldn't know a natural disaster happened yesterday."

"I'm sure it's a different story in San Francisco," Emma commented, shuddering as she remembered seeing Walsh's body under a white shroud.

Killian noticed and wrapped his arm around her shoulder. "Come on, Swan, let's have some breakfast. Coffee always makes everything better."

She gave him a grateful smile and they sat together on the couch, balancing the paper plates containing their donuts on their knees, while sipping from the steaming cups. Liam sat at the counter, turning on his bar stool to face them. "What should we do today?" he asked.

"As little as possible, in my opinion," Killian answered. "I know we planned to go sightseeing, but I'm just not up to it today."

"Agreed," Liam nodded.

"I hate to break it to you, but we're gonna have to make a trip to the grocery store because I have zero food in the fridge," Emma informed them.

"I think we can manage that," Liam said, before taking a huge bite of his glazed donut.

"I wonder when we'll be able to go back to San Francisco?" Killian asked.

"The doctor advised me not to overdo it for the next few days," Liam reminded him.

"We probably won't be able to call the hotel to see about getting your belongings, since I'm sure the phone lines are down. Maybe tomorrow, Killian and I should go into the city to try to get them," Emma suggested. "We might still be able to do a little sightseeing in the areas on the outskirts of town."

"Are you sure you want to go back there, Love?" Killian asked softly.

"I'll be fine as long as you're with me. You're my own personal bodyguard."

Killian flashed a grin at her.

"You did just as much to save us as we did for you, Emma," Liam assured her.

"I don't know about that…"

Liam interrupted her. "I do. You directed us around the city, took care of our injuries, found transportation for us…"

"Kept us from killing each other," Killian threw in with a smirk.

Liam raised an eyebrow at his brother. "It was definitely a team effort," he went on.

"And we make quite the team," Killian said, reaching over to squeeze Emma's hand.

She smiled at him over her coffee cup, then took a long drink and swallowed. "Anyway, I say we spend today recovering and then see how we feel tomorrow."

"I like that plan," Liam concurred.

They finished their breakfast while watching the latest updates on TV, encouraged to see so many agencies and citizens helping with the clean-up process. The damage was extensive, but the estimated death toll was lower than expected for such a major earthquake. They learned the 'big one' measured 7.1 on the Richter Scale, making it one of the largest on record. Aerial views showed collapsed bridges and crumbled structures, though a vast majority of the most modern buildings had minimal damage.

Most roads were still being assessed for their stability and people were being advised to stay away from the area as much as possible for the next few days. "Perhaps we should wait an extra day or two to go back," Killian suggested.

"Aye, that's probably a wise decision," Liam agreed. "This looks like a lovely community, lass. I'm sure we can find some things to do around here."

"It's a nice city, but it's not incredibly exciting. I like how low-key it is compared to San Francisco. We can go to Bayfront Park and the Train Museum, if that's your thing. There's also the Millbrae Shopping Center. You guys are gonna need some more clothes since we can't get back to retrieve your luggage for a few days."

"You don't have to feel the need to entertain us, Swan. Just spending time with you is enough for me," Killian said. He shoved the last bite of his donut into his mouth and grinned around it.

"Ugh, I don't know if I want to watch the two of you swooning over each other for the next few days," Liam complained teasingly.

"You might have to get used to it, brother. At least I hope so."

Emma answered by squeezing his knee through his gray sweatpants, then licked the remains of her bearclaw off her fingers and leaned in for a kiss. "Definitely."

"How far is the nearest grocery?" Liam asked, attempting to change the subject.

"The one I usually go to is less than two miles away. It's not very big, but it has everything I need. Maybe we could look for some movies while we're there. I don't have any streaming services, but I do have a DVD player. I just don't have an extensive collection of DVDs."

"Sitting around, relaxing and watching movies sounds like a good plan to me," Killian said.

xxxxxxxxx

Half-an-hour later, they were strolling down the aisles of the small grocery store, tossing snacks and ingredients for easy meals into the cart. When they reached the section with the DVDs, the three of them sorted through the offerings, searching for something of interest.

"Hey, how about this one?" Emma asked.

Killian and Liam looked up to see her waving the movie San Andreas in front of them. "No, thanks!" Killian exclaimed, while Liam said, "Absolutely not!"

She laughed and replaced it on the shelf.

xxxxxxxxx

They spent the next two days sitting on the couch watching movies, playing cards, stretching their legs by casually walking around town, eating junk food and getting to know one another better by having long conversations about a little bit of everything. Emma called in to take sick days from her job at the electronics store, but was able to complete her work for her online classes, even though Killian kept trying to distract her in the sweetest ways.

Three days after the earthquake, they piled into Emma's yellow Volkswagen and ventured back to San Francisco. They were surprised to find most of the major highways open already, though there was structural damage to almost all of them, with a lane or two closed where necessary. Since the hotel where the brothers had been staying wasn't in the downtown area, it wasn't included in the cordoned off restricted areas, which allowed them to collect their belongings.

They made the trip to Muir Woods to view the giant redwoods, standing tall and undamaged like beacons of hope. The ferry to Alcatraz Island was operating again, so they bought tickets and joined the sparse crowd of people boarding, then spent the afternoon participating in a tour of the historic site.

When they finally returned to Emma's apartment early that evening, all three of them were tired but happy, until Killian realized they were scheduled to return to England in two days.

"Can't we just postpone going back?" he begged Liam.

"You know we can't stay here indefinitely. We have obligations at home and I doubt I'll be hearing about that job anytime soon."

Killian looked at Emma in despair and she took his hand, brushing her thumb soothingly across the back of it. "I'm not going anywhere, Killian. I'll be right here when you guys come back." Looking at Liam, she added, "I can be on the lookout for an apartment for you guys, if you decide to move here."

Liam glanced at his brother, who was sitting slumped on the couch with a forlorn look on his face. "I would appreciate that, lass, because if we don't, I'm going to have to deal with a heartbroken and morose brother."

Killian roused at that news and gave his brother a slight smile.

xxxxxxxxx

The next day, they returned to the Medical Center so Killian could get a cast put on his hand and all three of them could be re-examined in their follow-up visit. Liam was told there was no sign of infection and he would need to get his stitches removed once he returned to England.

Emma had her lungs X-rayed and everyone was relieved to find out they were clear. She planned to return to work the next day after seeing the guys off at the airport.

Knowing it was their last evening together for the foreseeable future, Liam insisted they go out for dinner to a nice restaurant, his treat. Emma recommended an Italian place located a few blocks from her place that she'd always wanted to try.

It was a melancholy evening as they attempted to enjoy themselves, all the while thinking about what the next day would bring. When they returned to Emma's apartment, they put the styrofoam boxes of leftovers in the refrigerator and checked through all the rooms to make sure they hadn't forgotten anything that needed to go into their suitcases.

Emma suggested watching a movie, but Liam claimed he was too tired and wanted to go to bed. Killian knew it was an excuse to give him some time alone with Emma, and appreciated his brother's gesture. He was sure she realized it too, because she gave Liam an extra long hug before he headed down the hallway.

Once Liam was in bed and the couple had each changed into their pajamas and brushed their teeth, they cuddled on the couch, talking softly and sharing sweet, lingering kisses.

"I'm going to miss you so much," Emma whispered. "It's going to be very lonely around here."

"I wish with all my heart I could stay," Killian said, his voice low and somber. "I was going to try to convince Liam to go back to England without me, but I just couldn't do that to him."

"No, that wouldn't be right. Hopefully you'll be able to get everything worked out so you can move here soon."

"Aye, I hope so, too." He pulled her into his lap and wrapped his arms around her, looking deeply into her eyes. "I know this probably sounds crazy, and maybe you think it's too soon, but I can't leave tomorrow without telling you that I love you, Emma."

"I love you too, Killian, and it's not too soon. I was attracted to you from the moment we met, and I think the intensity of everything we went through forged a strong bond between us. Maybe being away from each other for a while is a good thing, because it will give us time to see if this is an infatuation or the real thing."

"I can tell you right now that it's not just an infatuation, Love. You own my heart and not a day will go by that I won't think of you and wish I could be here with you."

"Good."

They shared more kisses, which became increasingly passionate and desperate.

"Killian…" Emma panted against his lips.

"Yes, Love?" he asked breathlessly.

"Will you…make love to me?"

He pulled back to look at her. "Are you sure?"

"I want to be yours completely."

"I want that, too, but I…I'm not very experienced. I've only been with one other girl and we only did it twice."

"I don't think that matters, as long as we love each other. And for what it's worth, I haven't had much experience, either. Just a couple of guys in high school, but no one since then."

"Then I guess we don't have to worry about, um…"

"STDs? Yeah, I'm clean."

"In that case…" He began kissing down the length of her throat, urged on by her moans. She worked her hands under his T-shirt and began scratching her nails along the smooth skin of his back, which made him growl into the hollow of her throat. He grabbed the back of his shirt to tug it over his head, cursing when the sleeve got stuck on his cast.

Emma giggled and helped him finish removing it. Running her fingers through the hair on his chest, she murmured, "Mmm, so sexy."

"Your turn, Swan," he encouraged, plucking at the material of her shirt. She hesitated a few moments before crossing her arms to grip the hem, then pulled it over her head. As soon as her breasts were bared to him, he eagerly ran his fingers over them and kissed down the valley of her cleavage.

When he began licking and sucking at her nipples, she stopped him. "Let's take off the rest of our clothes first, because once we start, I won't want to stop."

"Okay," he agreed and pushed himself to his feet, extending a hand to pull her up, too. They quickly disposed of their pajama pants and underwear, then ran their eyes over each other's body, admiring what they saw.

Settling onto the comforter on the floor, they began exploring one another. Emma's hands roamed across Killian's chest, then around to his back and down to squeeze his firm ass, making him gasp. He resumed licking, nipping and kissing her breasts, feeling himself grow harder at her throaty response. She felt it too, and moved one of her hands to wrap it around him.

As her hand slowly pumped his cock, he moved his own hand down the smooth expanse of her stomach and pushed between her thighs, feeling her heat and the evidence of her arousal immediately. "Bloody hell, Emma. You're already so wet."

"Mmm, yeah. You got me all worked up. I can hardly wait to feel you inside me, Killian," she breathed into his ear.

"That's exactly where I want to be." He urged her to widen her legs, allowing him to press two fingers into her. "Fuck, Love, you're so tight and hot. You're gonna feel so good wrapped around me."

"What are you waiting for?" she moaned, her eyes closing as her hips thrust up at him.

"Are you ready? I don't want to hurt you."

"We'll go slow. You won't hurt me."

"How do you want to …"

She opened her eyes and shifted until she was hovering over him. "I think I should be on top so you don't have to put so much pressure on your hand."

"As you wish," he grinned, quoting one of their favorite movies watched that week.

"I love you, too," she smiled, then reached between them to grasp his cock, rubbing the head through her soaked folds several times before lining herself up and starting to sink down. He closed his eyes and gripped her hips, letting her set the pace and resisting the urge to thrust up into her.

When he was finally fully seated within her heat, she put her hands on his chest and rested her ass on his thighs, her knees on either side of his hips. "Oh fuck, Killian! It's even better than I imagined."

"Mmm, yeah," he agreed, biting his lip as he looked up at her. "I need you to move, Sweetheart. Please."

She nodded and began undulating her pelvis, watching his face to see his reaction. His eyes snapped shut and the cords of his neck stood out as he tried not to lose control. She dropped down, resting her forearms on his chest and pumping her hips, sliding up and down his shaft.

His breathing was ragged as he continued trying to restrain himself, not wanting the moment to be over too soon. Suddenly, he felt her lips against his. "Don't hold back, Killian. I want to feel you come inside me."

The growl tearing from his throat was nearly primal, and before she could react, he had reversed their positions and was pumping into her with abandon. "Yes, yes, yesssss," she chanted, wrapping her legs around his hips and clawing at his back.

She climaxed before he did, smothering her cry of ecstasy into his shoulder, and he soon followed her into the state of bliss, shuddering with the force of his orgasm. He collapsed on top of her, then rolled them over so she was sprawled across him, not letting himself slip out of her.

"I love you so much, Emma," he panted, drawing his fingers through her tangled hair.

"I love you, too," she mumbled against his chest.

As he softened inside her, their bodies reacted to their lovemaking.

"Now these aftershocks I don't mind at all," he smirked.

Emma giggled. "Neither do I."

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One Year Later

Emma, Killian and Liam sat in the living room of the apartment they all shared, watching coverage of the first anniversary of the San Francisco Earthquake. Liam perched on the edge of the recliner, leaning forward as he focused on the videos of the damage they had all witnessed firsthand, while Killian sat on the floor with his back against the couch, relishing the feeling of his girlfriend running her fingers through his hair.

"I can't believe it's been a whole year," he commented.

"It's been a very eventful year," Emma said and both brothers murmured in agreement.

Two weeks after they returned to England, Liam was offered the job in San Francisco, which he eagerly accepted. It took the brothers another month to square everything away in Leicester, and arrange to have their belongings shipped over.

When they stepped outside the airport on the day they returned, Emma leaped into Killian's arms, wrapping her arms and legs around him and smothering his face with kisses. Liam looked on with equal parts amusement and embarrassment, but was happy to see a genuine smile on his brother's face again.

Emma hadn't had any luck securing an apartment for them and offered to let them live with her until something became available. Liam was reluctant at first, knowing that all three of them living in her small, cramped apartment could lead to disagreements, but seeing no real alternative, decided to accept her offer for the time being. They were all pleasantly surprised at how well the arrangement worked out, and found that they enjoyed being roommates. Liam continued to sleep in Emma's bed, while she and Killian shared an air mattress on the living room floor.

Seven months after the brothers moved to California, Emma's neighbors told her they were leaving California and moving out of their two bedroom apartment at the end of the month. She immediately contacted her landlord to get an application for the guys. As Liam began filling it out, Killian bemoaned the fact that, even though they would live right next to each other, he and Emma wouldn't be living in the same place anymore.

Liam looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "I was under the impression this new apartment was for all three of us. Is that not what you intended, lass?"

Emma's mouth opened and closed a couple of times before she finally managed to say, "You want me to live with you guys? Permanently?"

"Of course I do," Liam assured her. "After all, you are my favorite roommate!"

The next month, they settled into their new apartment together.

By that time, she had taken an intensive four month EMT training course and had passed her exam. She was hired to work for the city of Millbrae, which, along with her twenty-first birthday, gave the trio a reason for celebration. She continued working part-time at the electronics store to help pay for the online courses and training she planned to take to become a full-fledged paramedic.

Killian started taking online classes to pursue a degree in literature, while doing freelance editing. After being in a cast for six weeks, followed by three months of physical therapy, his hand was finally healed enough that he was able to play his guitar again. He soon auditioned and was hired as the lead guitarist for a band that entertained at local bars on the weekends.

Liam bought a car to commute to San Francisco for his job every day. He was extremely busy working for the company hired to design bridges to replace the ones which had collapsed during the earthquake, and thoroughly enjoyed the challenge.

The three of them often reminisced about the day they survived the earthquake and all the challenges they faced together. On three occasions in the following months, they experienced mild tremors, causing them momentary panic, but they soon realized they weren't in any danger.

"What time is Elsa coming over?" Emma asked, interrupting Liam's concentration on the television.

Liam had quite literally run into the woman who was now his girlfriend on the second day of his new job. He was rushing to catch the elevator and failed to see the lovely blonde, bumping into her and spilling her latte down the front of her dress. When he told the story that evening at dinner, Killian noticed the starry-eyed look on his brother's face immediately and winked at Emma. He encouraged Liam to ask her on a date, which he eventually did, and the two quickly fell in love. After several months of dating, Elsa and Liam split their time between his apartment, and the one she shared with her sister in San Bruno, a city three miles north of Millbrae. Since her sister was getting married and moving out within a month, Emma was sure Liam would be moving into Elsa's place before long. The thought made her a little sad, but she was content knowing he would still be nearby.

Liam looked at the time on his phone. "She should be here any minute now. I'm going to go change clothes."

Once he left the room, Killian chuckled. "He's still trying to impress her, even though he's got her in his hip pocket."

Emma playfully slapped him on the shoulder. "There's nothing wrong with that. Maybe you should make the same effort as your brother."

"What's that supposed to mean?" he asked in an affronted tone.

"Well, here you sit in an old T-shirt and a pair of sweatpants. Am I not worth dressing up for a little bit?"

He turned to look at her, seeing the teasing smile on her face. "For you, my love, I will do anything. What color tuxedo would you prefer?"

She threw her head back and laughed, then scratched her fingers through his short beard, which he had taken to wearing ever since she berated Liam for shaving off his 'sexy scruff'. Her actions drew a contented purr from her boyfriend, then she leaned in and whispered hotly into his ear, "I prefer you in nothing at all."

Killian growled and crawled onto the couch on top of her, tickling her sides and rubbing his chin along her jaw, throwing her into a state of hysterics.

"Alright, kids - behave yourselves. Elsa will be here shortly," Liam admonished, as he re-entered the room, dressed in nice jeans and a button-down shirt.

"I can't help it my girlfriend is so bloody gorgeous, I can't keep my hands off of her," Killian threw over his shoulder. "Besides, Elsa should be used to how we act by now."

"Aye, and I'm beyond grateful our bedrooms are on opposite ends of the apartment," Liam said, rolling his eyes.

"Yeah, that worked out good for both of us. I'd rather not hear my brother's amorous activities, either."

A knock sounded at the door and Liam rushed to open it, greeting Elsa with a sweet kiss, and ushering her into the apartment. She noticed the couple on the couch and laughed. "I see the fun is beginning early for you two."

"The fun never ends for those two," Liam groused.

"Emma was telling me that I should make more of an effort to impress her, like Liam does for you."

She pinched him on the side, making him yelp. "I was teasing."

He sat up. "Still, never let it be said that Killian Jones doesn't do all he can to make his fair maiden happy." He kissed her on the forehead and left the room.

"Are you ready, Sweetheart?" Elsa asked Liam. The two were planning to go shopping to find Liam a new suit for work.

"Aye. Tell Killian we'll be at the bar to see him perform tonight," he told Emma, placing his hand on the small of Elsa's back to guide her out of the apartment.

"I will. Good luck with the shopping!" Emma called out as Liam closed the door behind them.

She watched a few more minutes of the earthquake anniversary coverage before switching off the TV and standing up to stretch. When she turned toward their bedroom, she stopped in her tracks, her mouth dropping open and eyes widening in shock.

Killian stood in the doorway dressed in a navy blue suit, with a crisp white shirt and red tie. His hair was slicked back and his right hand was behind his back.

"Wh-what are you doing?" she stammered.

He pulled his hand out, revealing a bouquet of red roses. "Impressing my girlfriend."

"Wha-...how…where did those come from?" she asked, stepping closer and bending to smell the fragrant blooms.

"I have my ways," he smirked, giving her the roses. Then he dropped to one knee in front of her, causing tears to form in her eyes at the realization of what was happening.

"Killian…" she gasped.

"Emma, the earth literally moved the day I met you, and my life has never been the same since then. I want to spend the rest of my days loving you and showing you how special you are to me. Will you do me the great honor of becoming my wife?"

She burst into tears and fell to the floor, collapsing against him and nodding into his neck, too choked up to form words.

"Is that a yes?" he asked cheekily.

"Yes, you idiot," she sobbed. "Yes, I'll marry you!"

He pulled back to put some distance between them, grinning broadly, and reached into his jacket pocket to remove a ring box. Opening it to reveal a simple oval cut diamond solitaire, set in a white gold band, he looked into her teary eyes. "I love you beyond words, Emma," he said softly, then slid the ring onto her outstretched finger, sealing the proposal with a kiss.

"I love you too," she choked out.

They continued to kneel on the floor, holding each other tightly for several more minutes before Killian finally broke the spell. "What do you say, Love? Did I manage to impress you?"

"You impress me every day, Killian. I owe my life to you, and I can't wait to spend the rest of it as your wife."

Both of them swore the earth shook again as the kiss they shared expressed the depth and passion of their love.

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