Author's note: I know, long gap between updates. That said, I do believe we are entering the endgame of this book in the SJT saga and will move into book 6 soon-ish. Enjoy!

Chapter 11

For all Killian's innuendo, the trio mostly cooled their heels for the first day or so. INTERPOL goons brought them some spare clothes from the townhouse; Liam's mood darkened a little at that point. Emma knew how much he hated this. He was by far the most private of the trio; he hated all these strangers knowing their business. Though Emma had to hand it to them; the security detail did try to keep their distance as much as possible. But the safe house wasn't that big, so they weren't completely invisible.

It was her fault. Emma knew deep down that none of this would be happening if she had never met the Jones boys. They would have blissfully gone about their lives without knowing she existed. Got married to a couple of nice English girls. Had kids. Would they have grown apart as siblings sometimes did when they started their own families? The very idea made her heart hurt. She couldn't imagine the Jones boys not being as close as they were now. But it was a very selfish thought. They weren't always this close; they reminded her of that constantly. Their brotherly bond was strengthened by their love for her. They chose her every day, along with the complications that came with loving her.

That made her the luckiest person on earth.

A soft knock drew Emma away from her swirling thoughts. She looked up from the book she wasn't reading to find Agent Arendelle standing in the doorway of the small study. The blonde looked grave. "What's wrong?"

Emma's voice drew Killian and Liam away from their own quiet endeavors; each looked expectantly at the INTERPOL agent. When she didn't speak immediately, Liam spoke up. "Best get it over with, Agent."

"Could we talk in the kitchen?"

Emma wasn't sure why the kitchen was better than the study, but the three of them followed her. The quartet settled around the table. Emma glanced at Killian, who shrugged. Liam's shoulders were set and tense; Emma knew he was bracing for bad news. She reached over and slipped her hand into his. He squeezed, but he didn't look at her. "What's this about?"

Elsa frowned. "There isn't an easy way to say this. You were right to be concerned about someone spying on you. Not just people following you or watching your home, but…we found listening devices. In your home. We're still trying to figure out where the recordings were sent…"

"You mean, you don't know?" Liam growled dangerously.

"From what the tech guys can tell, they were uploaded onto a remote server. But whoever planted them was smart…"

Liam didn't listen to the rest; fury rolled off him in waves. Before Emma or Killian could stop him, he stomped off. They heard his heavy footfalls on the stairs and down the hall to the master bedroom the trio shared. It was a lot smaller than their master suite in the townhouse, but as long as the bed was big enough for them to share, Emma didn't care. She didn't think she could keep it together without her boys surrounding her.

"Where were they?" Killian demanded. He was angry too, but it was more controlled. Emma wasn't fooled.

"The devices? Is that important?"

Killian's jaw clenched. "Of course, it's important! Someone violated our privacy and I want to know how."

Elsa drew a small clear bag out of her pocket. The evidence bag held a tiny listening device. Emma worked with a similar model over the years; she recognized it instantly. "There were several of these in the bedroom. Did you have that area of the house renovated recently?"

Emma blanched. Anger and guilt twisted Killian's handsome features. "Killian…" she began, but like Liam, he shut down. Before she could reach for him, he shoved the chair back and left the room.

"I'm going to take his reaction as a yes?" Elsa said softly.

Emma's chest hurt. This could not be happening! "When it became obvious that Killian and I weren't ever really going to use the other two bedrooms, we decided to make the master into a space that could comfortably accommodate all of us. Killian spent weeks researching contractors. He thinks this is his fault." And Emma would know because all of this was her fault.

"I know this is a spectacularly bad time, but I really need you to tell me everything you know about the contractor. We need to find them, see if they know anything."

Emma scowled. "They spied on us and all you're going to do is interrogate them?" she snapped.

"That's not what I said." Elsa tapped the device with her finger. "Someone went to a lot of trouble to spy on you. Obviously, laws were broken. And we'll get to the bottom of it, I promise you. But we need a starting point."

Emma sighed. "Fine." She told Elsa everything she could remember about their contractor. She had a sinking feeling that the guy either worked for Neal or got coerced by Neal into spying on them. Neal was obsessed. She briefly considered Clara, but that didn't make sense. Clara was disgusted by the trio's relationship; she wouldn't want a blow by blow of how they spent their time in the bedroom. Neal on the other hand…he was intrigued as much as he was repulsed. Emma gleaned that much from her time as a captive. Which was all kinds of gross. Emma suppressed a shudder.

It was scary and infuriating. Sure, the trio enjoyed visiting Cedér. They all had a voyeuristic streak a mile wide. But that was controlled. And they consented to it. This was different. Someone recorded them without their permission and…did god only knew what with the recordings.

"Find those recordings," Emma said seriously as they wrapped up. "Please. If anyone got them…"

"We'll do our best."

"What about our phones and computers?"

"We're still checking them. So far, we haven't found anything. We can get you spares if there's anyone you need to call."

"You spoke to Regina?"

Elsa nodded. "Yes."

"Okay. As long as you keep her and us in the loop, we should be fine." Regina could update the gang with any news; Emma didn't want to hamper Mary Margaret's recovery any more than was necessary. She left the agent behind and went to look for her boys. She checked her watch; Elsa had grilled her for more than an hour. Both had marched upstairs; she followed, but the master bedroom was empty.

Worried, she checked all the other upstairs rooms. No sign of them. Then she heard a rhythmic sound coming from above her. It almost sounded like…a punching bag? Elsa explained that the safe house had a gym for the agents but none of the trio had gone looking for it. They hoped they wouldn't be there long enough to use it. Clearly, they were wrong.

Typically, when Liam was angry, he went for long walks. He explained that the fresh air and activity helped clear his head. But they were stuck in the safe house, so that wasn't an option. Honestly, Emma didn't blame him; she felt like punching something herself. When were they going to catch a break? She just wanted a quiet life with her boys. She couldn't imagine bringing children in their lives, as badly as she wanted to. Not with everything in flux. Their lives were getting turned upside down and she hated it.

But she refused to walk away. She was done running. Emma now understood that there were things in life worth fighting for. Her marriage, her life with her boys was worth fighting for. Though the moment this latest drama was over, they were taking another long vacation to a beach somewhere.

Her workout clothes were among the ones brought by the agents; she changed into them quickly and found the stairs to the converted attic. As she suspected, the Jones brothers were there, working off their anger and frustration. Killian was at the punching bag, his fists wrapped in tape. His rhythm faltered a bit when she entered, but he shook it off and refocused. Emma knew he wasn't angry at her; he was upset with himself, no doubt believing he let her and Liam down. Part of her wanted to rush over and comfort him, but she knew he wouldn't let her. It was terribly naughty of her but she could help but notice how fucking hot an angry Killian Jones could be. He stripped down to nothing but shorts and sneakers; his skin glistened with sweat. Emma fought the urge to bite her lip, though that did nothing to ease the stab of arousal in her core.

Her eyes searched for the elder Jones. She found him in one corner doing pushups. Not from the floor, but with his hands wrapped around two heavily weighted barbells lying parallel to each other. Like his brother, Liam was shirtless, stripped down to a tiny pair of shorts and sneakers. His curls dripped with sweat, but he didn't stop. The muscles in his back were sharp and defined, rippling and flexing with every repetition. Emma suddenly had the urge to lick the salty sweat from his skin.

After all, working out wasn't the only way to dispel frustration.

The world really sucked right now; they could all use a more pleasurable distraction.

"So, this is where my husbands disappeared to," she said, crossing the room to the large sparring mat.

"We're not fit to be around right now, lass," Liam said through gritted teeth.

"You look pretty fit to me, babe," she replied, keeping her voice light. She was just as upset as they were, but they would only get through it together.

Liam paused long enough to give her a look. "You shouldn't play with fire, wife."

"You're not the boss of me, husband," she replied, smiling coyly.

"Emma," Killian growled between punches, "you're far too…calm about this."

She spent those first few weeks after returning from New York working out like a fiend in an effort to wear herself out so she could sleep through the night. It didn't work as well as she hoped; she knew this would be the same for them. It felt good at the time, but it didn't change anything. However, that experience allowed her to step into her stretching routine without needing to think. Her body moved on autopilot, loosening her muscles and joints. "Who says I'm calm? Maybe I'm here to work out my frustrations just like you."

She kept both brothers in her peripheral vision as she moved through the practiced yoga moves. She was angry alright. She was furious that their sanctuary had been violated. Someone betrayed their trust. It hurt. Their home was one place she felt completely safe and now it wasn't. She was pissed alright. But there wasn't anything she could do about it. There was no one to punch, no one to lock away. Not yet. They had to allow the cops to do their jobs. The only thing she could do was hold on to her husbands as tight as she could. They'd been through a lot since she moved to England; they would get through this too. But she refused to allow her husbands to shut her out. She would stay right here until they let her in. Or snapped and vented their frustration on her body, whichever came first.

She was definitely not opposed to either option.

Liam's arms shook with the strain; he was pushing himself too hard. He knew it. But he didn't trust himself. He didn't trust himself not to snap at his family. They didn't deserve his ire. He wasn't even upset with Killian, even though his brother chose the company that did the renovations on the townhouse. No, Liam, as usual, was angry at himself. Once again, he failed at protecting his family. He never even thought to check if anything was amiss when they returned from New York; everything had been too chaotic. It wasn't a rational thought; deep down he knew that. But when bad things happened to them, Liam always blamed himself. It was something he'd done since childhood, especially after Ioan left.

The thought of their criminal father just made him even angrier. He forced himself up, wiping the sweat from his face with a towel. He tossed it aside roughly, drawing Emma's attention. "Done already?"

"I honestly don't know," he replied with a defeated sigh.

She stood up from her stretch and held out her hand. The love that shined in her bright green eyes felt like a magnet, drawing him in. Liam accepted the proffered hand as Emma helped him to his feet. Gently, he brushed a few stray strands of hair back into her loose ponytail. "Hey."

Emma looked at him through her lashes and rested her hand on his chest, right over his heart. "Hey."

"Sorry, I stormed off like that. I just…"

"Needed some space to vent, I get it." She trailed her fingertips down his torso. "Did it make you feel better?"

"Not really."

She smirked at him. "Maybe you need a better distraction then." She glanced over at Killian; his fists still struck the bag, but she could tell she had his attention. He moved his stance a little to the left so he could watch them. She noticed one of the exercise benches cocked at the perfect angle for a massage. She grabbed Liam's hand and guided him over. "Go on. Sit. Facing away from me."

Liam arched a brow at her but did as she asked. He rested his cheek against the faux leather as his wife skimmed her hands up his back. Her fingers wove into his damp curls; he let out a low groan as she pulled lightly on the strands. She was suddenly very close to him, her legs straddling the edge of the bench, her pelvis close to the small of his back. She massaged his scalp expertly, occasionally pulling just a hair too hard. He didn't protest in the slightest; it felt amazing, even the small pinpricks of pain. Her strong nimble fingers began massaging the back of his neck; it was slow and tortuous, but he loved the feel of her touch.

"So tense," she whispered, his warm breath sending shivers down his spine. "My poor Liam." She worked her hands slowly over his bare shoulders; Liam groaned. "Feel good, babe?"

"You know it does," he mumbled, licks of arousal warring with the relaxation she offered.

He could see her smirk out of the corner of his eye. She leaned closer. "Watching you do that was really hot," she breathed, just for him to hear. "I just needed to touch you."

Liam cursed under his breath. "Don't stop."

"Relax." She continued her methodical massage, working out kinks and knots as she went down his broad back. She felt Killian's gaze on them; she offered him a coaxing smile. Liam's big brother complex meant he took every setback they had personally. This one hit Killian harder because the renovation had been his project. He took the lead on the planning and research. She mouthed "love you" when she caught his eye even as he continued to pummel the bag, hoping to coax him to abandon it and join them. He shook his head a tiny bit and Emma nodded. She would be there for him, however he needed her.

Liam let out an almost obscene moan as a particularly stubborn knot finally gave way. "Fucking hell that feels good, love," he praised.

"What kind of wife would I be if I didn't look after my husbands?" she replied, brushing a kiss to his neck. She pressed her body against his back, letting him feel her curves through the thin workout bra and shorts. "Love touching you."

Liam felt the loss of her body the moment she moved back…until he felt her lips on his skin. She kissed her way down his spine until she was on her knees behind him. He couldn't see her, but when she grabbed his ass and squeezed, he moaned loudly. "Fuck."

"I did promise you a distraction, right?" She cupped his cheeks and squeezed roughly, sliding her hands over his shorts and between his legs. He was helpless to resist her, his cock almost painfully hard within seconds. "Turn around."

It took him a moment to realize she'd given him an order; for a few seconds his body wouldn't obey him. He managed to turn and settle on the bench; distressingly, he found Emma standing a few feet away, her hands on her hips. "Watch. No touching."

Liam couldn't have looked away if he tried. He stared hungrily at his gorgeous wife as she slowly removed her clothes, starting with her tennis shoes and socks. She gyrated to an unheard beat, peeling the tight lycra from her lithe body. All the visible signs of her captivity were gone now, though Liam knew her body well enough to catch sight of a couple of new scars on her pale skin. His fists clenched; he prayed he never got into close quarters with the men who hurt her.

Vengeful thoughts faded away as she approached him, crouching slightly so her ass could rub against his crotch. Liam knew the show was for Killian as much as himself; he didn't mind. What better way to forget their troubles than to indulge their wife's sexual desires?

Emma bit her lip as she ground herself eagerly against Liam's stiff cock. This was exactly what she needed, a chance to shut her mind off and just feel. His rough hands slid over her hips; she smacked his hands away. "No touching, remember?"

"Why not?" Undeterred, he returned his hands to her hips and slid them up her belly. Her breathing hitched as he cupped her breasts. "Why shouldn't I touch my beautiful wife?" he murmured in her ear.

"Because…" She lost her train of thought as he settled her more firmly in his lap, spreading her legs over his. "Oh god."

"That's a good girl." He didn't touch her sex even though he could feel the heat coming off her. Instead, he focused on her nipples, plucking and twisting them as she squirmed on his lap. Her arousal was hot and wet; she dripped onto his shorts. "Hmm, you like this? Spread in my lap and writhing? Christ, I can smell you, wife."

Emma gave up all pretense of control, eager for more. She rocked against him, his hard cock nestled against her ass. Liam touched her everywhere…except where she needed him most. She panted and squirmed but he refused to give her what she needed.

Killian's punches slowed as he watched his brother tease their wife. Ever since that damn INTERPOL agent revealed the listening device, Killian's head filled with self-recrimination and self-loathing. He'd brought August into their home! He chose that…filth to create their sanctuary and he planted devices to spy on them! As if having the paps and half the bloody world hounding them wasn't enough! He was furious with himself; he didn't want his wife's comfort. When she mouthed her love for him, he had to look away; he didn't deserve her love. And yet…he couldn't ignore her for long. Then next time he caught her eye she was dragging obscene noises from Liam's mouth as she massaged his back. Her smile was sinful; part of him desperately wanted to join in and forget all of this. But he couldn't bring himself to do it.

And then he watched her strip.

Emma was easily the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen; from the first moment he laid eyes on her, he was drawn to her. She teased him with her stunning nude form; Killian could feel his resolve crumbling. "Please," he heard her plead. "Please!"

Killian brought the large punching bag to a stop and stalked over to where his brother and wife sat. Emma was too lost in her need to focus; she never saw him kneel between her spread legs. His wrapped hands stroked her thighs and Emma jumped. "Killian," she breathed when she saw him. "Finally."

"Shhhh," he soothed. "I'm right here, sweetheart."

"Need you," she whined. "Need you both so much."

"We're right here," Killian assured her. "We'll take care of you." He held her legs open wider, exposing her slick cunt. The scent of her arousal was heady; he had to adjust himself in his suddenly too tight shorts. Her swollen nub was exposed; Killian leaned in and brushed a kiss over it. Emma gasped and grabbed his shoulders for support. Before she could beg, he dived lower, licking across her hot slick flesh. "Hmmmm."

"Oh god, oh god," Emma panted. This was what she needed so badly, her husbands touching her, toying with her body. Killian ate her out methodically, lapping at her like she was the most delicious treat he ever had. Liam stroked her nipples with his thumbs, sending jolts of need to her core. "Fuck!"

Liam chuckled. "Shhh, love. Unless you want our friends downstairs to hear you?"

Emma forgot they weren't alone in the house, but she didn't care. She was through caring about what the world thought of her. "So…what?" she panted.

Killian raised his head; his scruff glistened with her arousal. "I love you so fucking much, Emma."

"Same." She pulled him close and kissed him deeply, the taste of herself on his tongue fueling her lust. "I want them to hear us," she breathed. "I want them to hear us fucking."

"Bloody hell." Killian lifted her off Liam's lap and carried her over to another of the benches, this one wider and with a thick bar stretched across the top. Emma didn't need to be told; when he put her down, she knelt on the bench and spread her legs, bracing her upper body on the bar. It was cold, but she hardly felt it. She heard Killian stripping behind her; within seconds, he was at her back, fondling her ass. "Don't hold back, wife," he growled in her ear. "Let them hear how well we fuck you."

Before she could even breathe, Killian was there, his thick cock sliding deeply into her cunt. Emma moaned loudly, gripping the bar tightly as her husband set a rough pace. His balls smacked her clit repeatedly; she arched her back in pleasure. "Fuck yes," she breathed. "So good."

Liam peeled down his shorts enough to stroke his cock; he knew Killian needed Emma more than he did at the moment. He would get his turn. Emma was perfect, her skin flushed, her lips kiss swollen, golden hair wild. She was the most passionate woman he'd ever known; he was grateful that she was theirs.

She was sure Killian would ride her to orgasm; she cried out in shocked surprise when he slipped out of her. "What are you doing?"

"Liam's been very patient," Killian whispered, brushing a kiss to her shoulder. "I thought you liked it when we shared you?"

Emma bit her lip; Killian had her there. His fingers kept teasing her cunt, keeping her aroused. She twisted so she could see Liam. He was already on his feet and naked. The older Jones approached her slowly; she shivered under his intense blue gaze. He gently twisted her body until she was on her back. Liam kissed his way up her torso until their lips met in a needy kiss. Emma spread her legs eagerly, desperate for him to fill her. But he didn't give her what she wanted right away, apparently content to grind the firm ridge of his cock over her sensitive clit.

"Always so needy," he murmured, bathing her throat in kisses. "So desperate for cock."

Emma bit her lip. "Feels good," she breathed. "Feels so good when you're inside me."

Liam twisted her hips so she lay partially on her side. She willingly allowed him to position her however he wanted; she just needed him. Liam straddled her left leg while resting the other on his shoulder. Emma let out an almost pornographic moan as Liam filled her. She gripped the edges of the bench tightly as he rocked into her slowly, rolling his hips almost lazily, like he was savoring every moment. Her boys were well-endowed; she loved that she could feel these marathon sessions hours after they ended. She spent most of her life never belonging anywhere and now she knew exactly where she belonged. With them.

Liam brushed a kiss to her ankle as he fucked her slowly; she was so responsive, needy sounds falling from her lush mouth. His gaze dropped to where they were joined; his cock glistened with her arousal, sliding wetly with every thrust. "Such a good girl," he murmured. "Look how well she takes cock, brother."

Killian wet his lips; Emma was a vision laid out supine on the dull leather. Gently, he stroked her cheek. Emma moved on instinct, tugging his finger past her lips and sucking. She looked up at Killian with lust drenched eyes; he grinned. "I can think of a better use for that mouth. Lift your head, lass." Emma propped herself up on her elbows, putting at just the right height for Killian's cock. Precum leaked from the tip; she licked her lips as he leaned in, knee on the edge of the bench. Emma accepted his cock gratefully, moaning around him as she tasted herself on his skin. Fresh arousal coiled in her core and Liam groaned.

"Fuck, Emma. Such a dirty girl," he breathed. "Love it."

The angle wasn't the best, but Emma didn't let that deter her. Killian braced his hands on the bar as Emma bobbed her head; he started to roll his hips to help her take him deeper. "Fucking hell," he breathed. "Such a sweet mouth, love."

Emma was lost in the sensation of being doubly filled; she jerked and lost her rhythm as Liam stroked her exposed clit. It didn't take much more to make her come; she released Killian abruptly as that first orgasm washed over her. Liam pulled out before he followed her, ducking down to wrap his lips around that swollen nub, dragging out her high. She wailed and arched her back; her whole body trembled. Liam used his talented mouth to draw every ounce of pleasure from her body, leaving her panting and shaking. No one spoke as Killian carried her to the large mat in the center of the room. There her boys surrounded her, lightly stroking her skin and plying her with languid kisses.

"You're so beautiful, sweetheart," Liam murmured as his fingertips skimmed the curve of her breast. He kissed her clavicle, her sternum, her breast.

"Don't stop," she pleaded, drowning in their sensuous touch. "More."

Killian copied his brother on her other side, blowing warm air over her sensitive nipple. "Tell us what you need, love."

"You," she replied. "Both of you. So fucking much." Would their lives have been simpler if they'd never met? Or if Emma could choose between them? Maybe. But it would also be worse. So much worse. It didn't matter how messy things got. Loving them was worth it. She tugged Killian back to her so she could kiss him; Liam chose that moment to wrap his lips around her nipple and suck hard. She keened and arched, fusing her lips to Killian's. His hands weren't idle, sliding down her belly to tease her clit.

"Fuck you're so wet," he breathed. "Want to fuck you, love."

"Please," she begged. "Please fuck me."

Killian eased her onto her side and pressed himself against her back. Emma wiggled her ass, finding just the right angle for him to slide into her from behind. Twin moans of pleasure filled the room; Emma reached for his hand and held it tightly. This time her husband was in no hurry, rocking into her at a measured pace. "God, you feel so incredible," he murmured in her ear. "So tight around my cock, love."

"Don't stop, please." She raised her gaze to Liam, who stared back at her with a heady mixture of love and lust. She beckoned him closer; their lips met in a hungry kiss. A sense of déjà vu washed over her; they'd spent their very first night together in much the same way. It was just as potent now as it had been then. Emma curled her hand around Liam's straining erection; he groaned.

"Fuck, Emma."

"Do you think they can hear us?" she whispered. "Outside? Downstairs? All those agents listening to us fuck. Listening to my screams and imagining what you're doing to me? Jealous of how thoroughly I get fucked. Every. Single. Night."

Liam cut off her words with a desperate kiss. "Need you, love. Now."

Within seconds, Emma found herself astride Liam's hips, his cock buried deep inside her slick cunt. She rolled her hips slowly, keeping him exactly where she wanted him. "So fucking good," she panted. "It's so fucking good."

Killian felt the loss of her warmth keenly; he moved in behind her and pulled her against his chest. "Naughty, dirty girl," he growled. He cupped her breasts, lightly pinching her nipples. "Driving us both to distraction with this perfect body. But that's what you want. Us sharing you, making you come over and over until you can't take it anymore."

Emma bit her lip; that sounded like heaven to her. "Yes."

"I thought so." His hand slipped down to the apex of her thighs; she whined as he expertly circled her clit. "Make sure you scream nice and loud." He kissed her cheek and coaxed her to ride Liam faster while he continued to manipulate her clit. He saw her thighs shake as her orgasm slammed into her; just as he asked, she screamed. Before she could come down fully, he lifted her off Liam's cock and bent her over so he could claim her cunt. Her walls were still clenching from her high; Killian rode her through it, making her cry out breathlessly. Liam distracted her with kisses and light plucks of her sensitive nipples.

"There's a good girl," Liam praised. "Such a good girl for us."

Emma pushed back as Killian thrust forward; her body craved more pleasure. They both grunted as he bottomed out inside her. A sharp crack of his hand slapping her ass made her cry out. "Again," she panted. "Spank me again!"

Killian obliged her, slapping her ass hard with every thrust. Soon her skin was warm and pink; she was stunning. "Come for me, Emma. Let me feel you."

Liam sucked one of her nipples into his mouth; the dual stimulation got her over the edge. She climaxed hard, her scream muffled by Liam's chest. She felt Killian follow her, her name a prayer on his lips as he filled her with his cum. Her knees finally gave out; Liam caught her and held her against him. A few moments later Emma was on her back and Liam loomed above her. She pulled him in for a kiss and spread her legs wide. She arched as he filled her; she lived for this. For her boys to repeatedly claim her body as their own. She locked her ankles behind Liam's back, keeping him close as he fucked her.

"Fuck, just like that, Liam," she panted. "Fill me up." There was just something about her husbands' mingled essence inside her that drove her wild with lust.

Liam took one of her legs and threw it over her shoulder. Emma cried out as the new angle hit her most sensitive spot over and over. One final climax coiled in her belly; her awareness shattered when it claimed her. She was nothing more than a ball of feeling, pleasure unfurling from her core outward. Liam didn't try to resist, grunting as he let go and spilled himself deep inside her cunt.

When he collapsed against her, Emma didn't push him off; she wrapped her arms around his shoulders and held him close. Eventually, they rolled onto their sides, where Killian joined them, spooning against Emma's back and tucking a spare pillow under her head. She sighed in content, feeling completely sated and safe for the first time since they'd been driven from their home. The brothers pressed tender kisses to her skin; she did her best to return their affection in kind.

"Love you," Liam murmured. "More than I can say."

Emma gathered him in her arms, kissing her damp brow. "I was just thinking the same thing about you." She found Killian with her free hand and squeezed. "Feel better?"

Killian slid their joined hands over her belly. "I am so sorry," he said quietly.

"Hey, shhh. It's okay, Killian."

"Being driven from our home and finding out someone I invited into our home planted listening devices hardly seems okay."

"I'm the investigator," she reminded him. "I didn't do a check on him. This is just as much my fault."

"Please don't," Liam said firmly. "Don't blame yourselves. Either of you."

Emma kissed the corner of his mouth. "Pot calling the kettle black, don't you think?" she teased gently. She knew her husbands well. Liam felt like he needed to protect them from the world. It hurt him each time something like this happened.

"Perhaps we all need a fresh perspective," he admitted.

She kissed his lips. "That's the best advice I've heard in a long time." She turned over and faced Killian. He wouldn't meet her eyes; she cradled his cheek and brushed kisses to every inch of his face. "I love you, Killian Jones," she murmured. "Please don't shut us out. We need you."

If Emma could still love him and forgive his mistakes, then he needed to forgive himself. Killian held her close, burying his face in her neck and breathed her in. She carded her fingers through his hair soothingly, grateful he wasn't pushing her away. She felt him let out a shuddering breath as his body finally relaxed. "It's going to be okay," she promised. "We'll be okay."

"I love you so much, Emma," he mumbled. "I feel like I failed us."

"No, no, no, babe. You didn't. This is no one's fault." August and whoever asked him to plant the devices was to blame, not Killian. "You want to know a secret?" He finally met her eyes and nodded. "Every time something bad happens part of me thinks it's my fault. If we'd never met or if I could have just stayed away…I don't know…something. If things were different and we weren't together…"

"Don't say that, love. Please don't ever…"

She put a finger to his lips. "But that's just it. Every time I have those thoughts…I know it's a lie. For every awful thing that's happened, I can name a dozen good things. Experiences I wouldn't trade for anything. This life—as messy and complicated as it is—is worth it to me. Do I wish we could go back to when things were less crazy? A little. But even then, I can't imagine my life without my husbands. I don't want to. I plan on growing old and gray with you two, so you might as well accept that."

Killian chuckled. "Old and gray, huh? With a gaggle of grandkids at our feet?"

"Maybe. We got to work on the kids thing first."

Liam appeared with some towels and their clothes; she kissed him in thanks and got cleaned up and dressed. The trio moved to wide leather sectional in the far corner; she leaned back against Liam's chest while Killian rested his head in her lap. Liam brushed a kiss to her neck. "You know, when we are old and gray, you'll still be stunning," he said softly.

Emma rolled her eyes. "You already had your wicked way with me," she reminded him. "No need to butter me up."

"I am merely stating a fact."

"When did you get a crystal ball?" she teased. "You should start charging if you can suddenly see the future."

"Killian agrees with me."

"Then you're both crazy."

Killian brushed a kiss to her belly. "You were the one who brought up growing old," he pointed out.

She huffed. "I'm starting to wish I hadn't." She occupied herself by combing her fingers through Killian's dark hair; he relaxed, allowing his eyes to fall closed.

"What about the other, love? How do you feel about that?"

"Which other?"

"Kids," Liam said softly.

"Oh." It wasn't that long ago that she had a freak out on that topic. She hadn't really given it any thought since they'd been forced to leave the townhouse. "I don't know," she continued. "I mean, there could be something wrong with me…"

"Rubbish," Killian said without opening his eyes.

"You don't know that, babe."

"We only need you," Liam said firmly. "You understand that, right?"

"I do, but…when things are like…this…when I think about it…I think I want to be a mom. And I know there are lots of ways to do that. Then there's the fact that there's two of you…"

"I'm not following, love," Liam said, confused.

She sighed. "Let's assume I'm perfectly healthy. How do we navigate this? Do you both try to knock me up? What do we put on the kid's birth certificate? Are you two really okay with me carrying the other brother's kid? Do you even want to know if you're the father?"

Killian abruptly sat up the same time Liam cut her off. "Emma, we've talked about this. It doesn't matter which one of us is the father. Any child you have will belong to all of us, no matter the baby's genetics."

"That's easy to say."

"You think we haven't thought about it?" Killian said, his voice quiet but firm. "That Liam and I haven't discussed it?"

Emma looked between them, shocked. "When?"

"A few times," Liam admitted. "Most recently in New York. Before you were taken." Emma had only recently come around to being a mother; she struggled with it, especially after her own childhood and miscarriage. Liam didn't begrudge her doubts; he knew in his heart she would be an amazing mother. Selfishly, he loved the idea of her walking through their home pregnant and glowing. They would dote on her endlessly, taking pleasure in fulfilling her every whim. But if that wasn't possible, he accepted that. Nearly losing her proved that she was the only thing in the world he truly needed.

Emma bit her lip. "Oh."

Killian cradled her cheek. "You are our wife. Both of us. It's only fair that our children belong to all of us too."

"But what about…?"

"The legal stuff? We can handle that, Emma. I'm sure there's something Regina can do to make sure we all have a say in our children's lives."

"You make it sound easy."

Liam squeezed her waist. "I'm sure it won't be, love. But I think it'll be worth it. When we're ready. We haven't even been married a year yet, remember?"

Emma glanced down at her rings. Their wedding day felt like yesterday, but it also felt like they'd been together forever. "I guess I've had it on my mind lately."

"Understandable." Killian pulled her into his lap, brushing a kiss to her temple. Liam swept her feet into his lap and started massaging the arches. "Believe me, Emma, there is no rush. We waited a long time for you; we can take our time and enjoy being married for a while longer."

"Guess I got really lucky that night, huh?"

"We all did, Emma," Liam promised her. "We're all lucky."


The next morning Elsa arrived with Regina in tow. Emma was stunned to see her. "Regina, what's wrong?"

Regina huffed in Elsa's direction. "You three were practically kidnapped by an international police force, Emma," she scolded. "What isn't wrong?"

Emma sighed. "It's just temporary," she said. "Until they've figured things out."

"Like the fact that your government protection just magically disappeared? And they whisked you off to some 'safe house' without a word?"

It struck Emma that Regina was worried about them. She was oddly touched; the pair of them were still learning how to be friends. "Regina, we're fine. Listen, there were…"

"Listening devices in your house, yes, I know," Regina said, stepping deeper into the living room of the safe house. "Someone's going to be paying for the damage, I promise you."

Emma frowned. "Damage? I'm confused."

Regina's brow arched. "Didn't they tell you? They had to rip out some of the drywall to get to them."

"What?" The trio looked to Elsa, praying it wasn't true.

Elsa shook her head sadly. "It was the only way…"

"You ripped apart our bedroom," Liam cried, aghast.

"Cut out some of the drywall. It can all be repaired…"

Regina huffed. "And INTERPOL is paying for the repairs and will get them finished quickly…correct?"

Elsa nodded. "Yes, of course."

"Good." Regina turned back to her clients. "While you've been tucked away here, there's been a…" She got out her phone and glanced at her notes. "Detective Wyvern asking for you? I tried to explain, but she will only talk to you."

"Lily," Emma corrected. She turned to Killian and Liam. "You think she's calling about your dad?"

"What does Ioan Jones have to do with anything?"

"We asked to see him," Killian explained. "We think he might have some useful information to help keep Emma safe."

"To keep all of us safe," Emma corrected. "He's spent the last twenty years in the mob; he has to know something."

Regina looked skeptical, but she didn't call them out. "Use my phone. Find out where the meeting is. I'm sure Agent Arendelle will be happy to accommodate you."

Elsa didn't look happy about it, but she nodded. The trio was their best weapon in bringing the Vatra and the Forsaken down for good. She would do whatever was necessary to keep them safe and happy. Emma disappeared into another room with Regina's phone; Liam glanced at Killian. His brother didn't look happy about any of this, but what could they do?

"Killian."

Killian followed his brother to the window, far enough from the ladies that they wouldn't be overheard. "What do you want me to say, Liam? That I'm overjoyed we're going to be seeing our faithless father again? Because I'm not. I probably never will be."

Liam rested his hand on his brother's shoulder. "I know. I just wanted to tell you how proud I am. I know this is the last thing you want to do, but you're doing it anyway."

"For her sake. I just want her safe."

"We both do. We will get our life back, Killian. I promise you."

Killian ignored the others and hugged his brother tightly. Liam hated every moment of this, just like Killian hated dealing with Ioan. But they supported each other because that was what family did. They would break the cycle Ioan started the day he abandoned them. They would build a better life for themselves, for each other, for Emma, and for any children they might have. Seeing Emma's doubts about being a mother broke his heart. If it was something she truly wanted, he would move heaven and earth to make it happen. In the meantime, they needed to make sure she was safe. And if that meant a visit to Ioan Jones, then so be it.

Emma appeared; she spoke quietly with Regina and Elsa before approaching her husbands. She took one of their hands into each of hers. "Lily says she can get us in today. Apparently, she's been trying to reach us for a couple of days and had no luck, which was why she finally reached out to Regina."

"I suppose we should be grateful for her persistence," Killian observed dryly.

"I can go alone," Emma offered.

"Absolutely not," Liam retorted. "We go together or not at all." Yes, Ioan helped them find Emma when she was missing; he seemed genuine on the phone. But Liam would never forget the terrible things his father had said to Emma. He certainly wasn't leaving Emma alone with the man, even if he was handcuffed.

"I know how touchy the subject of your dad is…" she hedged, but Killian shook his head.

"Liam's right. We do this together or not at all."

Emma squeezed Killian's hand. "Okay."

They changed into more appropriate clothes while Elsa got their transportation ready. Emma felt the motorcade of a half dozen armored cars was a bit much, but she held her tongue. If Neal's organization really was behind all this—and Emma doubted INTERPOL would go to this much trouble if they weren't—then she knew first hand just how far Neal was willing to go. He was deranged at best, a psychopath at worst.

The trio sat in the back of the center car, all of them tense. Emma was stunned but grateful that Ioan helped his sons find her, but his words the last time they met were hard to forget. Emma's thumb stroked the back of her rings, including the one that belonged to Ioan's wife. Seeing that ring on her finger set him off; he was mortally offended that his sons would give it to her. Perhaps prison gave him time to reflect? Perhaps it helped him realize that he was wrong? Emma had no idea; she was nervous.

Killian noticed Emma fidgeting with her rings; he silently brought her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles. "You're the strongest person I know, love. Just breathe."

"He hated me so much," she whispered.

"It doesn't matter what he thinks. We love you, Emma. Nothing could ever change that."

"Do you think he's come around?"

"He helped us find you when there was nothing in it for him. He's agreed to this meeting."

"He's wanted to see you guys since we put him in jail," she reminded him.

"Aye, I think then he was hoping to gain our sympathy. But we've made it clear that he needs to pay for what he did. No deals. No special treatment. Perhaps he truly does just want some kind of relationship with his sons."

"You really think so?"

Killian shrugged. "For Liam's sake, I hope so. He always took Papa's leaving the hardest. Forced to grow up so soon…" Liam and Emma had that in common, world weary beyond their years. "So much damage left behind. I just want us to get our life back. How much Papa factors into that will be up to him."

Emma leaned on his shoulder. "Thank you for being open to this. I know it's not easy."

Killian wrapped his arm around her, tucking her deeper into his side. "Have you thought any more on the subject of trying to find your parents? You know Liam and I would support you if you did."

Emma shook her head. "I don't see what the point would be. They gave me up. They didn't want me. Maybe they had good reasons, maybe they didn't. It doesn't change the past. It doesn't change how I grew up. Is focusing on the good things I have now so bad?"

Killian grinned. "Absolutely not." In fact, it was wise advice. Advice they could all use. Right now, their pasts stalked their happiness, but it wouldn't forever. They would get through this and be stronger than ever, Killian was sure of it.

The secure location turned out to be Ioan's prison; the cars dropped them off in the underground basement out of sight of any press or cameras. Elsa remained with them, using her badge to get them through the checkpoints. A guard led them to one of the interrogation rooms. "We'll bring him in shortly."

"Hit the buzzer if you want to cut the interview short," Elsa said. "We'll be right here."

"I hardly think our father's a threat," Liam grumbled.

"He's risking a lot by talking to you," Elsa reminded them. "We'll do what we can to ensure his safety, but nothing is foolproof."

Killian blinked, a little surprised. Which was naïve of him, he realized. This was the mob they were talking about. The telly was filled with shows that described the perils of ratting on the mob. Could Ioan truly be doing this because he cared about his sons' happiness? There was only one way to find out.

The room had a long table and four metal chairs. There was a one way mirror behind them; the trio asked for the audio and recording to be shut off. If Ioan truly was risking himself to talk to them, then the less evidence that existed of their visit the better. This was about Emma and getting any information that might keep her safe. It had nothing to do with the government's case against Ioan. They'd already done their part.

Liam arranged three of the chairs on one side of the table while they waited for Ioan to be brought in. The door opened a few minutes later; a guard entered the room with a thin man with gray hair. It took Liam a moment to recognize the man he reacquainted himself with just a few months ago as his father. Ioan appeared much more frail and tired with heavy bags under his eyes. Those eyes, so much like his sons', lit up when he saw them. The guard secured Ioan's cuffs to the table then left them alone.

For a long beat no one spoke. Then Ioan glanced from one son to the other, seeming to skim over Emma like she wasn't there. "It is good to see you both."

Killian scowled. "It's more than just us," he snapped.

Ioan nodded, finally resting his gaze on Emma. "So I see."

"Papa, if you're just going to continue to be rude to our wife," Liam warned, "we might as well end this now."

Ioan sighed and held up his hands in surrender (as best he could, considering they were shackled to the table). "I'm trying, Liam, truly."

Killian wasn't having it. "Not sure what's so difficult. Emma is our wife, same as any other marriage. Though I understand that may be a difficult concept for you to grasp, considering you walked away from your own wife."

Emma gasped. "Killian!"

"I didn't say anything that's not true, love."

Before she could reply, Ioan did. "You're right." That admission shocked everyone speechless. Ioan blew out a heavy breath. "I've had a lot of time to think. I've made a mess of my life; I've no one to blame but myself. I truly did believe I was protecting you, all those years ago. But, I suppose, I was only protecting myself."

"Spare us your epiphanies," Killian replied, arms crossed.

Emma considered scolding him again, but Ioan kept speaking. "I know you don't trust me, Killian. I don't blame you. You've done far more to protect the woman you love than I ever did. You may not want to hear this, but I'm very proud of the man you've become."

"Trust is earned," Killian said slowly. "We're here because you helped us rescue Emma. We're grateful. What happens next is up to you."

Liam shared a look with Emma; it really was the best they could hope for as far as Killian was concerned. He carried a lot of anger and resentment toward Ioan, much of it deserved. Liam would never understand his father's decision to abandon his family. There was nothing on earth that could drive him away from Emma and Killian. When everything else fell apart around them, they always had each other. And they always would.

"Emma's ex is the Vatra," Liam said quietly. "Since we've returned, the government had a detail watching her, but recently her detail went missing. INTERPOL's involved now; they found listening devices in our home." Ioan studied his elder son, noting the cold fury that laced his words. Liam had always been a serious boy; he understood now the passion that lay beneath. He loved the woman that sat beside him and would do anything to keep her safe.

"The Vatra set the bomb on Whitehall," Killian continued. "He's locked up for kidnapping Emma, but…"

"You think he's still running the Forsaken from the inside," Ioan finished for him.

"Yes."

Ioan was silent for a long time. Killian was probably right. The Forsaken was something he avoided during his career. He'd crossed plenty of unsavory lines, but the Forsaken were ruthless in a way that was distasteful even to him. If the infamous Vatra was connected to his sons' wife…she wasn't the only one in danger. Killian and Liam were, just by being with her. Protecting them meant protecting the girl too. Ioan didn't think he would ever fully understand the bond the trio shared, but he couldn't deny its existence. It was in everything they did. Every look, every gesture.

"Someone as powerful as the Vatra…he would have the connections to stay in contact," Ioan admitted. "What does he want?"

"Me," Emma said. "He thinks I belong to him. He said that the reason he left me was because he owed the Forsaken a debt. A debt that they would use me to repay if he didn't come back."

Ioan nodded. "That sounds about right."

"He said he worked his way up the organization. He spied on me. Probably followed me for years. I had no idea. If I'd known how fucking deranged he was, I would have never gotten involved with your sons. I would have never put them in danger."

"Emma," Liam said, "this isn't your fault."

She ignored him and faced Ioan. "You believe me, don't you?"

"Aye, lass, I do. Seems you have gotten yourselves in quite a pickle."

"We can't promise anything," Liam said, knowing his brother's feelings on the subject. "We just want her safe."

Ioan nodded. He didn't expect anything out of this. Keeping his sons safe was enough for him at this point. "I'll do what I can. As I've said before, I avoided the Forsaken. Nasty bunch."

"Thank you, Papa."

They spent another thirty minutes together. Killian had to give it to the old man; he did seem to genuinely want to help. The little boy in him desperately wanted to believe it was real. He just couldn't be sure. Until he was, he would remain wary. Emma held his hand under the table the whole time; she understood his lack of trust. It would take a long time to rebuild if that was even possible.

By the time the meeting ended Liam was mentally exhausted. Seeing his father again in such a state and in such circumstances was draining in a way he hadn't expected. Ever since Ioan came back into their lives every conversation with him felt like a minefield. Now Emma's safety was at stake. He just wanted this over.

Elsa waited for them in the other room. "Did you get what you were looking for?"

Liam nodded. He recounted some of the leads and secrets Ioan had divulged that might give the authorities a jump on the men that threatened his wife. Elsa scribbled all of it down furiously. "Is any of that helpful?"

Elsa nodded. "Definitely. If we can use some of this to prove conclusively that Cassidy is the Vatra, then we can charge him. After that, his accommodations will be a lot less cozy."

"How long?"

Elsa looked a bit helpless. "I don't know. I know it's a huge inconvenience, but I really think the safe house is the best place for you to be for the time being. My contact says the formal accusations against the Russians could be any day now."

Emma hated it too, but what could they do? "The paps can't harass us if they don't know where we are," she pointed out.

"Emma, you're talking about an indefinite stay," Liam argued.

"Elsa, could you give us a minute?" The blonde nodded and slipped out, shutting the door behind her. Emma stepped up to her tall husband. "Hey, I know this sucks. I know. I want to go home too. I want to see our friends. Hell, I'd even like to get back to work. But it's not safe. I won't risk you guys again. I won't."

"Emma…"

She shook her head. "No, Liam. You remember how you felt when I was missing? Multiply that by a hundred and you'll understand how I felt every moment I was gone. Neal may want me, but he will hurt you to get to me. I know he will. If he can just have the men guarding me removed from his jail cell…" She shuddered. "I can't go through that again. I can't lose you, either of you. I'd rather we stay together. The place doesn't matter."

Her green eyes pleaded for his understanding; he couldn't deny her. He held out his arms and she came willingly, burying her face in his chest. He stroked her blonde locks; she squeezed his waist tightly. Liam shared a look with his brother; Killian nodded. They would do whatever she asked.

"It's not forever," she murmured.

"Shhh, I know." Emma raised her head and pressed her lips to his. He surrendered to her kiss, returning it with enthusiasm. When it broke they were both lightheaded. Emma giggled and stood on her toes to whisper in his ear. "Think of it like this…we'll have even more places to christen. Think of all the new, exciting places you'll get to fuck me."

Liam groaned. "Now you're just not playing fair, love."

"I do what I have to." She stepped out of his arms and into Killian's. He spun her around and planted her on the nearest flat surface, which happened to be a small desk. He kissed her deeply, making her toes curl. "Whoa, easy, tiger," she teased.

"Why should I?"

"Because I'm pretty sure that door's not locked and we could get arrested for public indecency?"

"Then you should be more careful, wife." He kissed her again, just because he could. Emma responded in kind. This situation sucked, but they were good at making the best out of a bad situation. Killian trailed his lips down her throat. "Perhaps we could ask our friends at INTERPOL to bring our chest?" he murmured in her ear.

Emma shivered. "Hmmm, that would be amazing."

"It's the least they could do."

She grinned. "Yes, the very least." When Killian allowed her to stand, both brothers wrapped her up in her favorite three way bear hug. "I know this isn't ideal," she said. "I'm so sorry."

Liam shushed her. "We do what we have to do, Emma. We always have. We always will."

"As long as we're together, we can handle anything," Killian added.

"Let's hope Neal gets dealt with soon."

"Aye." The boys released her and went to join Elsa in the hall. "We're ready."

"But we have some requests," Emma said. "If we're going to be staying with you for a while, then we need some things from the townhouse."

Elsa nodded, relief all over her face. "Name it. I was also thinking about moving you three to one of our other safe houses, just in case. I trust everyone on my team, but until we have Neal pinned down, it might be better to keep moving you."

"Just so long as it has space for all of us," Emma agreed. "I think that's fair."

"I'll make the arrangements."

Before Elsa could walk away, Emma asked for one more favor. "Before we get whisked off to who knows where, could we possibly visit my friend Mary Margaret? She was in an accident a few days ago and I'd like to let her know we're okay."

Elsa nodded. "Let me make some calls."

"Thanks." She turned to Killian and Liam. "Never a dull moment, huh?"

"I'm actually looking forward to some dull moments," Liam replied.

"As long as dull involves a beach, I'm all for it."

Killian grinned. "I think we can make that happen."