AN: So I know that Regina and David are technically cousins but she is going to refer to him as uncle due to the age gap. I also don't have a beta so I apologize now for any and all grammatical errors!
Chapter Two – 87 Days Left Part I
It was Friday morning and the Nolan Mills cousins had nearly made it through an entire workweek. Just as Emma had suspected, the work itself was cake. They had been introduced to Ruby Lucas, the head bartender, first thing Monday morning. She was a uniquely beautiful woman who was trying to keep up with her rent while simultaneously trying to break into the acting business. She gave them all the ins and outs of the position and even advice on how to score the biggest tips. Working poolside seemed to be the easiest of the jobs since no food was actually allowed on the deck. They took down drink orders, brought them back to Ruby and she filled them. Eventually, they would learn to mix their own drinks but that was after their training period was over.
The first thing Regina hadn't complained about was their uniform—emerald green tank tops with the Plaza logo in white on the left breast. On their bottoms, they were encouraged to wear something…how did Ruby put it? That would encourage tips. Emma was a little taken aback by that but then again it was Hollywood.
It was only 7:30 in the morning but Emma was already ready for work. They didn't have to be down to the pool for another hour and a half but Regina had just jumped in the shower. She admitted, having only one bathroom between the two of them may pose a problem the entire summer. Pushing the complaint to the back of her mind, Emma knocked on the bathroom door, "I'm going to get some tea do you want anything?" Through the thick oak door Emma could hear her cousin's muffled voice claiming she wanted large passion ice tea lemonade.
"I'll have to admit, this place is brilliant." A tall, lean brunette stepped out of the backseat of a blacked out Suburban, eyeing the glorious architecture in front of him. His dusty chestnut locks were mostly hidden under a fitted, black Chicago White Sox hat. His taut body was adorn with, what seemed to be, the typical attire for the surrounding area—a black, white and red color blocked RVCA tank top, khaki Lucky Brand cargo shorts and brown leather Rainbow flip-flops. His face was ruggedly handsome with a fair amount of stubble adorning his angular jaw. Pale azure eyes narrowed from the onset of sunshine as his is pale pink lips turned naturally into a boyish smirk as he stepped out of the way for his companion to join him on the sidewalk.
The second man was also dressed in a California-appropriate outfit. He wore a thin gray cotton v-neck shirt and black Nike Sportswear board shorts, with gray laced up Vans on his feet without any socks. His relaxed hair, dark and lustrous, could almost have been mistaken for jet black. But the sultry deep brown could be seen around the edges and in its wily shine. It was mused in a way that questioned if he had just rolled up from a nap. His face was devilishly beautiful, thick dark hair covering his strong jaw line and around his plush rose lips.
The two men were absolutely gorgeous, both standing at, at least, 6'2, if not taller. As their driver retrieved their luggage from the boot, the darker haired man covered his striking cerulean eyes with the black Ray Bans sunglasses that previously hung from his shirt, the thin layer of dark chest hair more notable now. It was definitely a lot warmer here than England.
"Killian, mate, this is going to be a right summer." His voiced lilted as he lackadaisically threw his arm around his friend's shoulders. The athletic brunette shrugged off the embrace and looked towards his friend critically. "Robin, focus. We are here for a reason. If Brennan and your parents like our report they are going to consider partnering with Nolan Mills Corporations."
Killian still didn't fully understand why their fathers wanted to partner with the rival company. They had never been on good terms with the George Nolan, and despite his death there was no closure to the families feud. The infamous Nolan Mills tribe had a habit of keeping to themselves. He didn't even think he could pick anyone from their family out of a line up. But they clearly knew how to conduct business, Killian thought, admiring the stunning piece of art in front of him. And this wasn't even one of their nicest establishments.
Robin hadn't heard anything his companion had said. The only thing he could focus on was the beautiful figure that had just exited the large revolving doors, walking straight towards him. Her lengthy, thick golden locks flowed behind her in large, loose curls as she pushed the stray tendrils out of her vision. Her body was long and tight, her lean legs exposed under her distressed jean shorts. The toned muscles flexing with each passing step, as her tall, wedged heels made her silhouette even more desirable.
When Killian realized Robin's attention was on something other than him, he followed his friend's azure stare to the form approaching them. Her eyes were downcast at the iPhone in her hand but her steps never hitched. She walked with confidence and poise, an air of experience surrounding her. Sapphire eyes narrowed in interest behind their glassed shield. Although her appearance seemed to match the Beverly Hills culture, Killian noticed a difference in her stance. She was on a mission.
Emma hated checking her email on her phone. She much preferred the large desktop Mac in her office. Even her laptop was maddening without a proper mouse and keyborad. How did her father expect her to keep up on all the second quarter's figures when he wouldn't even forward her the proper information? Giving a frustrated sigh, she knew the answer to her own question: he didn't except her to keep up because he purposefully left her out of the loop.
She hadn't told Regina, but one of the main reasons David had sent Emma on this "assignment" was to get her to relax and focus on something other than the executive side of the company. He knew he had placed a heavy burden on his daughter's shoulders in this life. And now, with his retirement nearing, the guilt was closing in on him. Even her days at university were nothing like the average student's. Taking far more than a full load of credits, double majoring and spending 20 hours a week at the office left no time for…anything.
Emma deposited her iPhone back into her black Chanel satchel and half-heartedly laughed at her father's attempt of relaxation. When her emerald eyes finally looked back up to where she was going, she was surprised to see who was standing at the edge of her curb.
Killian Jones and Robin Locksley?
What in God's name were they doing here?
Instantly masking her confusion, Emma continued on her path towards the coffee shop across the street. She knew neither English heir would recognize her. Hell, they didn't even know David or Henry had any children. But she knew exactly who they were—son of Brennan Jones and Malcolm Locksley, the two most powerful men in western Europe.
As she neared them, her misted jade eyes examined their faces for the first time in person. She had seen countless pictures and articles of them on the front pages of the European tabloids and even a high fashion spread of them in GQ, but still those photos could not do them justice.
Although they were both arrogant do-nothings, the blonde Nolan was silently embarrassed by her body's reaction to them. They were much taller than she had originally thought but their bodies were still perfectly proportioned. Their casual dress was much different than the Brunello Cucinelli and Dior suits they once sported in the American editorial; but still it…fit.
Slightly veering to the left to avoid the Suburban, Emma held the intense gaze of the man she knew as Killian. Although his fierce cerulean eyes were hidden, she still knew they were present, matching her own, leveled look. It wasn't until a low wolf whistle broke her concentration and turned her attention to the slightly taller male.
Robin.
His pale navy eyes danced with interest and flirtation and he visibly eyed Emma's figure. Smirking at his stupidity, Emma gave a taunting wave to him just to fuel the fire.
Not missing a step, she made it to the intersection just as the crosswalk was turning green. She continued on, not chancing a look back.
Electric blue followed the fluid motion of the woman all the way until she disappeared behind the café's doors. Her glamorous form was perfect and alluring, nothing like any of the women he had previously engaged with. Before his mind wandered to unseemly thoughts, Robin was laughing like a school boy and shaking Killian's shoulders, "See mate?! One off summer!"
The brunette continued to mumble his excitement to himself as he walked towards the empire in front of them, a goofy smile plastered to his face. Killian just rolled his heated eyes and smiled after his cousin. So maybe this wasn't going to be a complete mess.
"Ah Mr. Locksley, Mr. Jones. On behalf of the Storybrooke Plaza, we welcome you. I trust that your trip was well?" The longhaired Scot was dressed smartly in a navy pinstriped Armani suit, tailored to perfection. As he extended his alabaster hand to the men, they took it respectfully, but focused more on the posh design of the lobby.
"I am the manager, Robert Gold. Everything is prepared for you in your suite on the top floor. I'm sure you will find it to be up to your refined taste."
Killian nodded courteously, admiring the small details put into the entrance area.
"Aye Robby, so who was that beaut that just walked out of here?" Robin just could not resist could he? Killian again rolled his eyes but did not object.
Mr. Gold tried to look past the fact that the English heir had just referred to him as Robby and smiled politely, "Ms. Swan? Yes, her and her cousin Ms. Queen are our most recent hires. They will be tending to the pool area this summer."
Disregarding Mr. Gold now, Robin turned to his companion with a look of pure satisfaction. Just as he was opening his grinning mouth to say something Killian knew he shouldn't, the darker haired man took the room keys handed to him, shook Mr. Gold's hand again and thanked him for the hospitality.
Seeing his presence was no longer needed, Mr. Gold straightened his suit jacket and walked the opposite direction. Thanking a higher power Robin did not embarrass them in front of the manager, Killian turned to him faintly disgruntled.
Again excitedly shaking the ebony-haired man's shoulders, Robin exclaimed, "Two of them Kill! Cousins! How is that not the best news you have heard all day?!"
Amusement replacing any previous annoyance on Killian's face he pushed the man's chest mocking his thrill, "Aye! Awesome! Two pretty girls by the pool! Can't wait mate!" Sarcasm clear in his voice.
How were these two going to be any different than all the other women they had encountered through the years? Just another plaything until the men got bored.
The hot June sun was blazing down on Emma's bare shoulders, tanning them into a golden glow. Regina was lucky, being half Puerto Rican she didn't even need to apply sunscreen. But the fair blonde was a little more sensitive to the rays. The two had been working for a couple of hours when a large group of elderly women showed up dressed in expensive sundresses and accessories. They claimed they were on a girls' weekend and were now currently filling up on Long Island ice teas and frozen margaritas.
Emma hadn't found it necessary to mention the appearance of the two rival company's heirs to her cousin. Plus she thought it would be far more entertaining to see how Regina reacted to them herself.
"Yes, I will have a blended strawberry margarita please." Said a woman in her 70s, flashing her Cartier diamonds at Regina.
"I'm sorry senorita but I will need to check your I.D. If my boss knew I was supplying minors I would lose my job." The chestnut haired twenty-four year old really knew how to schmooze 'em. Just as she had expected, the wealthy older woman flushed pink and laughed graciously with her friends. After being handed a sizable tip Regina smiled warmly and walked to fill the orders.
As she was walking towards the bar entrance, the glass door suddenly opened before her and revealed a devilishly handsome brunette. His tall lean body, only being cover by turquoise Ralph Lauren trunk and tight bulging muscles. His shoulders were wide and strong, leading right down to his touchably fit chest and hard abdomen. His veins were sensually prominent in his narrow waist and lower stomach, his trunks hanging low on them.
After running her russet orbs painfully slow over his figure, she finally registered his face. His alabaster skin was smooth as marble and looked just as ridged. His sharp features matched that of any runway model in Paris, but it was the boyish smirk on his pale rose lips that made him seem oddly familiar. It wasn't until she saw that his heated slate eyes were roaming her own body that she appreciated her work uniform.
The brilliant emerald of the tank only emphasized her golden tanned skin. Robin's mouth went dry at the sight of her form before him. She was just as tall as the woman he presumed to be her cousin, but their features were quite different. Her long bistre brown hair was tied in a high plait at the back of her head, the tips just reaching above the small of her back. They were thick and wild but still caressingly soft.
A playful smile crept on to Regina's full lips as she continued walking towards the now open door, her coral tribal print Jimmy Choo wedges soundless on the concrete. "Thank you." She softly said, passing the towering man on her way through.
Emma was chatting with Ruby as she was filling her section's drink orders. When she noticed Regina approaching the bar with a puzzled look on her face she knew her cousin must have had a run in with the two Englishmen from that morning.
"Where do I know that guy from?" Regina asked Emma throwing her thumb back over her shoulder in Robin's direction.
Before the blonde could answer her cousin, Ruby chimed in, "Robin Locksley. And I'm sure Killian Jones isn't far behind. Mr. Gold warned all the department heads this morning they were checking in and were staying the entire summer. I'm surprised they didn't just up and buy a house if they were staying that long. The boss is pretty stressed out about it all so just be on your best behavior." The last part was directed at the darker brunette as Ruby gave her a suggestive furrow of her taupe eyebrows.
Feigning shock Regina lifted her hands in defense, "What? Come on! I am always a perfect angel."
The elder cousin laughed along with Ruby and lifted her tray expertly and started to walk towards her customers. "They're in your section Em, try not to chase them away!"
Without even looking back she flipped her sassy cousin the middle finger and continued on her way.
Out of the corner of her emerald eyes she could see the infamous duo had taken rest on the beach chairs at the far south end of the deck, enough distance from all the other pool inhabitants. Making small talk with a couple on their twentieth wedding anniversary, Emma tried to look around for another stalling tactic. But alas, she forced a polite smile on her face and walked towards the men, wishing she were wearing a little more than the revealing top and distressed jean shorts.
Emma could not help but be annoyed by the presence of the two men. Mainly because she did not know their intentions, and she absolutely hated being out of the loop. Ruby's words were in the back of her racing mind as she neared the couple, pen and pad ready. The entire summer? It was only the first week of June, did the entire summer really consist of them staying here until August? Or even September? And of course she couldn't just ask them outright. The last thing she needed was them reporting her to Mr. Gold for stalking or harassment. The best thing to do would be hospitable and polite, just as she would to any other guest.
And she would grill Robert after her shift.
"Afternoon gentlemen. What can I get for you to drink?"
"What? No introductions first milady?" The cocky brunette lilted from his lazed position with his hands behind his head. His previous hat was now gone and replaced with stylish tortoise Tom Ford sunglasses.
The blonde woman kept her stoic composer and had to consciously remind herself to say Swan and not Nolan. "Emma Swan at your service gentlemen," condescendingly bowing as she spoke. The grin that was produced on Robin's thin lips showed he found her mockery amusing. But as for the other man lounging beside him, she was unsure if his eyes were even open under his opaque Ray Bans. Chancing another glance in his direction her eyes couldn't help but linger on his loosened form. One of his thick biceped arms was thrown behind his head in a makeshift pillow as the other rested on his sturdy chest, the thin layer of dark hair blanketing over his pecs and traveling in a fine line all the way down towards his trunks.
Artfully chiseled abs hinted power and appeal as taut apricot skin covered every inch of him.
Inwardly grimacing at the lack of control she had on her subconscious, a slight chill ran down Emma's spine when a self-satisfied smirk appeared on the pseudo-sleeping man's face. Apparently his eyes had been open. Wonderful.
"Emma…" It was like Robin was trying it out to see how it felt, "Pleasure to meet you Emma. I'm Robin Locksley and this is—"
"Killian Jones." Pushing his dark sunglasses on top of his head only increased the untouchable quality of his silky locks.
Seeing his eyes for the first time in person only put Emma's lithe body into another hormonal spell. They were the brightest shade of cyan she had ever seen on a human. Sparks of sapphire swirled dangerously behind the cool exterior, hot intensity radiating from them.
"Welcome to the Plaza gentlemen, we hope you enjoy your stay. Could I interest you in a Seven and Seven? Or perhaps something from our tap?" Trying to sound as professional as she could, she had to resist the urge to gag at the formality.
"A Seven and Seven sounds wonderful, thank you Emma." Robin sounded a little distracted as Emma noticed his dark navy eyes had traveled across the deck to her cousin's form. Interesting.
Turning expectantly to Killian, Emma kept her face respectfully masked. "And for you Mr. Jones?"
"Johnnie Walker, blue label. Neat." Just as Emma was about to walk back to the bar, the serious brunette spoke again, "And it's Killian, love." Emma's full coral lips twitched but said nothing. As she swayed back across the white concrete, Emma's grip tightened around her notepad as she felt the heated stare follow her.
What pompous ass ordered $300 whiskey poolside?
Noticeably annoyed, Regina could only snicker at the frustrated older woman, "That good huh?"
"Shut up." Her retort lacked any of the usual fire behind it and Regina narrowed her eyes suspiciously.
"Oh my god! You think he is hot!" the brunette pointed accusingly as Emma. Rolling her large emerald eyes and moaning, "Whom are you even talking about?"
"Oh don't play dumb Em, tall dark and handsome was always your type." Regina now folded her arms across her budding chest.
Exasperated by the thought of this topic, Emma ran her fingers through her long curled hair. Why had she thought wearing it down would be a good idea in this heat?
"Well I'm not blind am I? But you know as well as I do about their reputation. Those two are not just random guys here. They are two men we definitely need to stay away from this summer." Her word sounded final. But Regina had other plans.
"Emma, sometimes you need to think outside the box. Just follow my lead, ok?" Before Emma could object, Regina had walked off with Robin's drink order, leaving her with Killian's costly scotch.
By the time Emma brought herself to actually follow her cousin, the younger woman was already enthralled in a conversation with the two infamous men. The four twenty-somethings talked for a few more minutes as the men finished their drinks. Emma tried to invest into the conversation but her body was on fire. And she knew it wasn't from the heated sun above her. What was he staring at? Honestly did he have any decency at all? Refusing to play into his hand, Emma kept her graying green eyes on the flirtatious couple to her right. Was Regina really buying into this guy? Yes, Robin was amazingly good looking but Regina had to know this was one man she could not involve herself with. They were going to have a long talk when they got back to their room.
"Miami huh? So it's only your first week in California? Well we must insist on taking you ladies out tonight." Robin was still sitting on his chair but his position was much more alert and attentive now, as Regina stood at the end of the recliner.
"It would be our pleasure." Killian lilted slowly.
Emma had drifted out of the conversation but was pulled back by the sound of the ebony haired man's sensual voice. It was thick and smooth, the accent drawing her jade orbs to the source of the words. She hated the fact that her subconscious was in control right now. But the rush of emotions that ran through did make her feel lively.
Wait, were they asking them out tonight?
"That sounds brilliant!" Regina quickly replied, knowing if she gave Emma the chance the girl would rain all over her parade.
Avoiding the Englishman's handsome face Emma turned back to her cousin, slightly narrowing her eyes, was this apart of following her so-called 'lead'? Feeling the threesome's eyes all turn on her silent form, Emma quickly masked her distain with a cheery smile, "Wonderful!"
As the other occupants were slowly trickling out Killian and Robin decided to do the same. As they stood, Emma now felt small in close proximity even with ther towering heels on.
"We'll meet you boys in the lobby at nine." Regina smiled as the men made their way towards the entry door. Emma kept her happy facade until both boys disappeared into the luxurious lobby. Then her frustration took hold of her, her beautiful face turning into a twisted blur of irritation. "What the fucking hell Regina?" her voice may have been hushed but that only made it all the scarier.
Not saying a word back to her aggravated cousin, Regina only smirked triumphantly and started clearing the empty glasses from the tables. This continued all the way until their shift ended an hour later. Emma was going to have an aneurism if Regina didn't explain herself.
Even the elevator ride, the lean brunette just stared at the wall with a cocky grin on her face. The fierce glare from her cousin's anger only fueling her smugness. As the heavy oak door of their room closed Emma exploded, "I swear to God Regina you fuggin jerk off!"
Regina only laughed as she plopped herself down on her hugely comfortable bed. Her cousin had this habit of switching from her regular tone to a Southie Boston accent when she was especially irate. That's when Regina knew she had broken her.
"Oh calm down I was just messing with you." Regina kicked off her thick wedges as she rolled onto her stomach. Emma just stood in the middle of the room, armed folded disapprovingly. "Well do you want to know my plan or what?"
Emma just rolled her eyes relaxed slightly. Her cousin really did know how to get under her skin. Waving her hand for Regina to continue, Emma herself started to remove her shoes.
"Seeing that those two are obviously oblivious to who we actually are, and Daddy and Uncle David are always so concerned about what Jones Trading Company is up to I was thinking we dig up some dirt." Regina had now transferred into a seated position as a mischievous glint rain through her eyes.
Skeptical, Emma looked over her shoulder, "You mean get them to tell us?"
Regina rolled her dark coffee eyes, "Of course not. But I can guarantee they aren't just here for a relaxing vacation. With all the money and power in the world they choose our hotel? For an entire summer? Something is definitely up with these two and I just know Brennan and Malcolm are behind it. It may take a while, but I'm confident we can earn their trust. And when we do, I'm sure we can find something of use to the Nolan Mills Corporations in that suite of theirs."
Emma's manicured blonde eyebrows furrowed as she stared off past her cousin. She was obviously just as suspicious of the men as Emma had been but Regina took it a step further. Although the plan seemed schemey and unreliable, Emma couldn't help but be proud of her cousin. She was making a conscious effort and now she wanted to conspire against their largest business rival? All in hot pants no less!
"I don't like it." Emma said flatly looking Regina dead in the eye, the brunette's confidence wavering. Suddenly, the elder cousin's face softened into a wicked smile, "But its so crazy it just might work!" In a flash she had leapt from her bed and jumped on top of her unexpecting cousin. The younger girl squealed as she blocked her cousin's attack with the large pillow at her feet. The two screamed and laughed until they both lay exhausted on the disheveled bed.
"Well we better get ready, we only have 87 days to complete Operation Boy Toy." Regina started walking towards the bathroom.
Emma just stared after her, confusion written all over her face, "You're counting?"
AN: What did you think? Part II coming soon!