Disclaimer: I own nothing related to PLL. I'm only borrowing the characters for a while.
Reminder: This story is AU as of Season 5, Episode 12. It is a sequel to my story "Ali's Nightmare Before Christmas", my AU version of the Season 5 Christmas episode, where I revealed that "A" was Ali's twin, Courtney. Therefore, please remember that Cece is NOT related to Ali and Jason, and she was not "A" in my story.
You may want to go back and reread that story and this story before you read these new chapters because it is VERY different from what actually happened on the show.
Thank you to everyone who has come back to this story and are reading and reviewing. There seems to be a much smaller readership these days, but I guess that's to be expected since the show is over. But I'm glad to see there are still some readers for this story out there.
Enjoy! And if you're so inclined, please leave a review.
Breathe Again—Chapter 11
Slowing their pace, Emily and Pepe stopped on the sidewalk in front of Alison's condo just as her phone rang. Emily pulled it from where she'd tucked it in the waistband of her running shorts and groaned as she saw her mother's face on her screen.
She'd texted her parents after Alison's seizure the day before, to let them know what happened. A couple of weeks earlier, Emily finally mustered up the courage to tell them about her and Alison, but the conversation ended in disaster. Emily's parents were even more distrustful of Alison than their friends were, and Emily hadn't spoken to them since that conversation had turned into an epic fight.
Alison had been urging her to call and make up with them, having overheard the call, much to Emily's chagrin. The blonde didn't want to cause a rift between Emily and her parents, but Emily refused, insisting they just needed time to accept them. And she was giving them space to do that.
Alison was skeptical, but Emily was relieved when the blonde let it go, proving just how much her girlfriend had changed. The old Alison would've resorted to bullying Emily until she succumbed to her demands.
After getting Regan's call yesterday, Emily immediately texted her mom. Despite knowing of her parents' resentment about her and Alison's tumultuous history, the mere thought of losing the blonde again sent Emily into a state of panic.
"Hey, mom," Emily said as she swiped her finger over the screen. Her mother always made sure to FaceTime, insisting she wanted to see her daughter through the screen since she so seldom saw her in person. Despite the smile on her face, Emily saw the concern in her mom's eyes.
"Hi, sweetie. We didn't hear anything else from you yesterday. How's Alison?"
"She's okay," Emily replied as she reached up and wiped some sweat off her forehead. "I'm sorry I didn't text again. It was a crazy day. After I knew Ali was alright, I had to go to work and didn't get off until late."
Pepe plopped down at Emily's feet, his tail thumping against the ground, as Emily leaned against the white picket fence in front of Alison's condo.
"I'm glad she's okay," Pam replied. "So what happened to her? Why did she have a seizure?"
Emily debated how much to reveal to her mom, a mix of uncertainty and anxiety filling her chest. She was still in the dark about a lot of it herself, and didn't want to betray Alison's trust by sharing too much. So she kept it simple.
"It's long and complicated, but Ali's crazy sister hitting her caused a brain injury, and now she has occasional seizures."
"Oh, Emmy. That's awful."
At the sound of an approaching car, Emily looked over and waved at Regan as she pulled to a stop by the curb. Pepe's ears perked up as he, too, noticed and sat up, eagerly anticipating attention.
"It turns out she's been on anti-seizure medication for years. Hi Regan," Emily said as Pepe greeted Alison's assistant enthusiastically with barks and wiggles. Emily reached down and gently scratched him behind the ears, while Regan greeted them with a wave as she walked by.
"Who was that, honey?"
"Ali's assistant."
Alison was still asleep when Emily and Pepe left for their run, but was now clearly awake, as she'd summoned Regan. Emily's hope for Alison to take it easy today vanished as she watched Regan unlock the front door with her key.
"Oh, are you at her place?" Pam asked, her gaze scanning the area for any subtle clues.
"Yeah. Pepe and I are just getting back from our run. We went down to the Santa Monica pier this morning."
"I can't believe Alison still has that dog. Wasn't he already old when you girls were in high school?"
Emily looked down at Pepe, who was once again sprawled lazily on the ground, and she couldn't help but let out a snort of amusement. "With all the pampering he gets, he's probably in better health than me."
"So, how are things besides that?" Pam asked, her voice filled with hesitant concern.
"Mom," Emily said with a hint of frustration. "Can we please not get into this today?"
"I'm not trying to start anything, honey," Pam said, her voice filled with sincerity. "Your dad and I are sorry for arguing with you the last time we talked. It's not our place to tell you what to do anymore, but I'm just curious how things are going between you and Alison."
Emily pushed off the fence and walked through the gate, closing it behind her after Pepe followed her through.
"I told you, Ali and I are happy."
"You can't blame us for worrying given all the history between the two of you."
"I appreciate your concern," Emily said, her voice strained and her hand clenched tightly at her side. "Everyone just needs to let the past go. That's what Ali and I are doing. We know we have lot of baggage, and it's likely to rear its ugly head from time to time, but we're focused on our future."
"You were just so happy with Mari," Pam sighed, her voice filled with a tinge of disappointment as it trailed off. "Until you saw Alison again."
Emily stopped at the front porch. She didn't want to go into the house while having this conversation with her mom. The last thing she needed was for Alison to hear her mom talk about Mari.
"Mom, I've already told you this. I still care for Mari, but we just weren't meant for each other. I love Ali. I never stopped loving her, even when I was with Mari. I'll always love Ali and despite what everyone wants to believe, she feels the same way. She loves me too, mom."
Emily sat on the front stoop, and Pepe came over and sprawled his big furry body across her lap.
"If you tell me she loves you, then I believe you, Emmy. But your dad and I just don't want to see you get your heart broken again if she changes her mind, that's all."
"She's not going to break my heart again and she's not going to change her mind. She's not the same self-centered person anymore." Emily gently massaged Pepe's neck and back, mimicking the technique she had seen his doggy masseuse use during his appointment. Pepe panted happily, his tongue lolling out of his mouth. "Like I told Hanna, Spencer, and Aria yesterday, we've all changed in the last six years. It's unfair to assume Alison isn't capable of growing and changing too. I just really wish you and dad would just give her a chance."
"Okay, honey," Pam sighed again. "We trust your judgement. All we want is for you to be happy."
Relief flooded Emily's body, although she wasn't naïve enough to believe her parents would all of a sudden unquestioningly trust Alison. But Emily did, and she knew with time, everyone else would come to see her trust in the blonde wasn't misplaced.
"I've never been happier in my life, mom. Thank you for being willing to give her a chance. It really means a lot to me."
"Of course, sweetie." Pam hesitated before she spoke again. "So, your dad and I were thinking of coming out for a visit at Christmas. How would that work out for you and Alison?"
"I'll talk to Ali, but I think that will be fine. She has one of her Sports Illustrated photoshoots in early January, but December should be good for a visit. Then you can spend some time with her and get to know her now."
Emily decided to keep Fields House a secret from her parents to avoid the inevitable onslaught of questions that would arise once they discovered Alison had changed her last name. It was better for them to find out when they could see it in person.
"Do you think we could use your spare bedroom, or should we get a hotel?"
Shit! Her parents didn't know she and Ali just decided to move in together.
"Uh, well," Emily winced as she forced out her reply. "I won't have my apartment in December. I'm moving in with Ali."
"Emily," Pam said with a surprised look on her face, her eyebrow arching in question, "isn't that a little fast?"
Pepe's weight was pressing on Emily, so she shifted to relieve the tingling sensation in her legs.
"I'm never at my place. I'm always at Ali's and it doesn't make sense to pay for an apartment I never use."
That wasn't the reason she was moving in with Alison but if it made her parents more receptive to the idea, all the better.
"What about your lease? Will your landlord let you break it?"
"I'll lose my deposit, but it's still cheaper than paying rent for an empty apartment for five more months."
Emily could tell her mother was biting her tongue. "Oh, Em. I think you and Alison are moving too fast."
At that moment, Pepe's bark echoed through the air, and Emily felt a wave of gratitude for his impeccable timing. She had no desire to engage in another topic that would inevitably lead to an argument, so she gently nudged Pepe off her lap and rose to her feet.
"Mom, look, I have to go. Pepe's breakfast is late, and I need to check on Ali. I'll call you next week, okay?"
Disappointment flashed in Pam's eyes, but she quickly masked it with a forced smile. "Okay, Emmy. Take care of yourself. And tell Ali we hope she's feeling better."
"Thanks, mom. Love you."
"Love you too, sweetheart."
Emily hung up and bent down to remove Pepe's leash, enjoying the feel of his fur as she scratched his ears. He dodged her and eagerly nudged the front door with his nose.
"Okay," she chuckled, grabbing the handle. "I'm eager to see her, too."
##########
Alison glanced up from the sofa, her attention drawn away from her broken equipment in her lap as the front door swung open. Despite her irritation over the sorry state of her favorite camera, the blonde smiled softly as her girl and her dog entered.
"There are my two favorite people," she said, her voice filled with genuine happiness.
Emily couldn't help but laugh. "Pepe is not a person regardless of how you treat him, Ali. He's just a dog."
Pepe trotted over to Alison and barked, head butting her elbow and looking for pets. She wrapped her arms around his neck.
"Don't listen to her, baby," Alison cooed at him. "She loves you as much as I do." Her nose wrinkled. "Although you need a bath. You're stinky."
Emily approached the sofa and bent over the back just as Alison tilted her face up. Their lips met, and Alison emitted a low purr.
"Good morning, love," Emily said with a smile as she pulled back.
"Mmmm…. now it is," Alison murmured as she opened her eyes. "Why didn't you wake me before you left? You're making a habit of that, you know."
"You were out like a light. I figured you needed your rest," Emily replied, her voice echoing through the house, as she made her way to the kitchen to grab a bottle of water and feed Pepe, who eagerly followed her every step.
"It's later than you usually run," Alison said once Emily returned and plopped herself down on the other end of the sofa.
"Yeah, I got up later than normal. I guess you wore me out last night," Emily teased.
"Yes, I did," Alison purred with delight.
Emily looked around. "Where's Regan?"
"Grabbing a couple of things in my office."
"Is there any salvaging it?" Emily asked, tilting her head towards the camera.
"Unfortunately not," Alison replied with a scowl as she set it on the coffee table. "It's insured, but I can't wait for them to process the claim. Regan is going to take me to Samy's Camera later so I can buy a new one. I loved this camera. I'm so freaking pissed."
"Shouldn't you take it easy for a few days?" Emily asked, her eyes shining with concern.
Alison casually shook her head, causing a few strands of hair to escape from her messy bun. "No. I'm fine. She insists on driving, which I think is stupid, but it's easier than arguing with her. She can be a real nag when she wants to."
"I heard that," Regan's voice echoed from upstairs and Alison snorted, but Emily frowned.
"Are you sure you should go out, Ali?"
"I don't need two mother hens, Em," Alison warned, but she softened her words by touching Emily's hand on the back of the sofa. "I have too much going on, but I'll take it easy. That's the only place we'll go today."
With his belly full, Pepe made his way back into the room and curled up on the floor beside the sofa, close to Alison.
"But we have to get yesterday's shoot rescheduled for next week," Alison continued as she played with her girl's fingers. "And the shoot I already had for next week has to be rescheduled. Then we have to prep for Fiji. I can't believe we leave in less than two weeks."
Emily frowned again at the thought of Alison traveling so soon after her seizure, but she kept it to herself because she knew there was no talking Alison out of it.
"And Nicole and I have to set a date for the fundraising gala. We're thinking of before Christmas, so we have to get a venue booked as soon as we can. I was going to go over to Fields House to talk to her, but I guess I'll just call her…"
"Jeez, Ali," Emily interrupted her rambling girlfriend. "Take a breath."
Alison shrugged as Emily continued. "I read a little about your condition yesterday, and you need to keep your stress levels down if you don't want to have another seizure. Working yourself into the ground isn't a way to do that."
"Em, it's only my second one. Regan is actually the best assistant I've ever hired and I'm not the control freak I was years ago. She'll keep me from taking on too much." Alison glanced at the stairs, annoyed, and called up to her assistant. "Regan, what's taking you so fucking long?"
"I'm still looking for your camera receipt."
"Just bring the folder down here. I'll find it."
Emily shot Alison a knowing look. "You're right, Ali, you're not a control freak at all anymore."
Alison kicked Emily's thigh gently as she narrowed her eyes playfully. "Be nice to me or I won't put out tonight."
Emily laughed out loud as she grasped Alison's foot. "Yeah, like I believe that." She shifted sideways so she could slip her legs under Alison's. "Jason said yesterday that surgery might help keep you from having more seizures."
"No fucking way. I talked to my doctor and they'll have to shave part of my head."
"Ali, hair grows back," Emily said she gently rubbed Alison's calves. "Besides, I also read there are other surgery options where they may not have to shave your head or only just a tiny patch."
"Em, no," Alison snapped, her tone harsher than intended, before she let out a weary sigh. "If I was having seizures all the time, it would be different, but it's only been two. I just have to take my meds and I'll be fine. I've been lax about it lately. I've missed a couple of pills, but I'll be better. I promise."
Emily let it go for now. She didn't know enough about Alison's condition to try to talk her into something she and her doctor have discussed and haven't felt was a priority. But it worried her.
What also worried her was the mental breakdown Jason told her Alison had when she got back from Paris. Emily chose not to mention it, not wanting to upset Alison, but eventually, they'd have to talk about it. Considering what happened yesterday, Emily felt it was probably best to let it go for now and focus more on the present and the fact that Alison was alright.
It broke Emily's heart to know what Alison went through, but it wasn't completely surprising, especially after all she'd endured because of Courtney. But the fact that it happened right after she got back from seeing Emily in Paris made the brunette's stomach churn, as it was clearly connected to that event.
Regan came down the stairs and handed Alison a folder and her desk calendar.
"Who has a hard copy calendar anymore?" Regan asked with a chuckle as she stepped over Pepe and sat in the chair.
"Shut up, Regan," Alison said, her eyes focused on the papers in the folder. "I have my calendar on my phone too, but I'm old school about some things, like my love for black and white 35mm film. Here it is." She held up the receipt. "What are you fucking blind?"
Regan shrugged, unbothered by Alison's words, and Emily shook her head.
"Nicole just texted and said that Marissa's Gallery is available on December twenty-second. Whoever Marissa is. Do you want her to book it?"
"Yes," Alison said enthusiastically. "I'll just have to figure out how to keep Fields House going until then. Tell her to call Archie and hit him up for some money. He promised a donation after I scored those sold out Taylor Swift tickets for his daughter in January."
"You know Taylor Swift?"
Regan and Emily, both, gaped at Alison and she laughed. "I met her at a party last summer, but she didn't give me the tickets. I know her tour photographer."
"Never mention that to Hanna," Emily said as she made a funny face. "She'll never leave you alone."
Alison's eyes locked with Emily's before the blonde shifted her gaze towards Regan. "Regan, get lost for a little while."
"No problem," Regan said as she finished typing on her phone and stood. "I'll head over to the studio and grab the equipment you asked for. Is there anything else you want while I'm out?"
Alison shook her head as she reached down and stroked Pepe's soft fur. "No. I'll shower while you're gone and we can head to Samy's when you get back."
"Okay. See ya, Em."
Emily waved as Regan shut the door behind her.
"That was a little abrupt, Ali."
Alison waved her hand dismissively as she tossed the folder and receipt on the coffee table. "She's used to it."
"What equipment is she getting?"
"A couple of my lenses."
Emily gently caressed Alison's ankle and the blonde shuddered.
"What do you need them for?"
"Well, once I get my new camera today, I have to break it in before the shoot next week. My cameras are like extensions of my eyes and hands and this one," Alison motioned to the camera on the table. "was my favorite DSLR. I knew exactly how to touch it and how much pressure to use to make it purr for me. Kinda like you," Alison purred as she reached out and stroked her finger over Emily's shoulder and down her arm.
"You're the one who usually purrs," Emily teased as she grabbed Alison's foot and tickled, causing Alison to squirm and kick out gently.
Emily tugged on Alison's legs, bringing her closer for a kiss and, of course, Alison responded with a soft purr before pulling back.
"Anyway, I have to get to know the new camera before next week. Seduce it into submission. Maybe you'd be willing to be my subject this weekend?"
Alison looked hopeful, but Emily looked at her skeptically.
"What kind of pictures do you want to take of me?"
"Sexy ones." Alison batted her eyes playfully as she hiked her leg over Emily's lap and straddled her girl, tugging on the tie around the brunette's ponytail and releasing her hair. "They'll be for my eyes only. Then we can bring Pepe to the beach, and I can get shots of both of you."
"Whatever you want, love," Emily agreed, knowing she wasn't going to win this and Alison wriggled excitedly.
"Really? Thank you, baby. I'm so excited. Oh, wait!"
Alison twisted her body, her arm extending to grab her phone and call Regan.
"Hi," Regan answered on the second ring.
"Grab my Leica M6 and a dozen rolls of black and white film while you're at it."
"Okay."
Alison ended the call and casually tossed her phone to the side. Resting her arms on Emily's shoulders, she gently pressed their foreheads together.
"I'm gonna get lots of black and white shots of you and Pepe. I've been dying to capture you with my camera forever."
"Why didn't you just ask?" Emily laughed at Alison's excitement.
Alison leaned back to get a better view of Emily's face. "I didn't want to make you self-conscious. I know you really don't like getting your picture taken."
"I don't mind sometimes, when I'm not the sole focus or I don't have to pose," Emily said with a casual shrug.
"They'll all be candid shots. And you're always my sole focus, even if you're oblivious to it. I'll seduce you into submission along with my camera."
"Sometimes you're so cheesy, it's adorable." Emily laughed and Alison pinched her side playfully as the brunette reached up and brushed Alison's hair away from her face. "You're so beautiful in the morning."
Alison buried her face in Emily's neck.
"Ali, I'm all sweaty."
"Mmmmm…. I know," Alison moaned as she slid her tongue along the column of Emily's throat before leaning back. "You know, Regan will probably be gone for a while," Alison purred, her voice laced with desire as she pressed down on Emily, circling her hips seductively before leaning in to kiss her girl.
Emily gripped her hips and groaned into Alison's mouth as Alison ran her fingers through Emily's hair, tugging gently on the silky strands as she deepened the kiss.
Emily slipped her hand between them, pressing her fingers against Alison through her sleep shorts. Alison whimpered into Emily's mouth, before Emily tore her lips away. She leaned down, wrapping her lips around Alison's nipple, teasing it through her tank top before giving it a gentle bite.
Alison whimpered at the sensation. Emily's hand slipped under the leg of her shorts, gently shifting Alison's panties aside to explore the warm and wet heat between her thighs.
"Yes," Alison moaned, panting softly. "We have to be quick, Em."
Alison tightened her fingers in Emily's hair as she pushed up on her knees, giving Emily easier access. She leaned down, pressing her face against the top of Emily's head as she felt the warmth of her girl's lips and tongue tease her nipple. The sensation and the dampness of Emily's mouth through the material sent shivers down Alison's spine.
Emily traced the edges of Alison's clit with her fingertip, tickling and teasing, before sliding her fingers lower and thrusting, first one and then a second, into the blonde's body. Alison's warm, wet flesh enveloped Emily's fingers, as they moved in a deliberate and gentle rhythm.
With each passing moment, Alison's movements became more desperate, her hips rocking fervently as she tried to coax Emily's fingers to delve even deeper, urging her girl to pick up the pace. Every nerve in Alison's body tingled in anticipation as she rode Emily's fingers, impatient for release.
Alison grasped Emily's face and tilted it up, pulling Emily's lips to her own. As their lips met, Alison explored the depths of Emily's mouth and savored the intoxicating taste of the woman who was the most important person in her world.
Alison's movements became even more frantic and her legs shook as her body rushed toward completion. She clenched around Emily's fingers, her grip tightening as her orgasm slammed into her and waves of pleasure consumed her.
"Em," Alison whimpered into Emily's mouth as she released a shuddering breath, her release rolling over her, before she pulled her lips away and dropped her head onto Emily's shoulder. Emily turned her face and buried her face in Alison's neck.
Alison's breath came in short, ragged gasps against Emily's skin.
"Fuck, baby, you're good with your hands."
Emily chuckled as she nuzzled the side of Alison's face. They sat for a few moments before Emily finally broke the silence.
"Do you want me to come with you and Regan today?"
"You don't have to," Alison said, lifting her head and slowly rising from Emily's lap. "But I need to get in the shower. Do you want to join me and I can return the favor?" Alison purred as she held her hand out.
Emily reached out and took hold of Alison's hand, letting the blonde easily pull her up from the sofa. "I don't think you'll be ready by the time Regan gets back if we share a shower again."
Alison pouted, but knew her girl was probably right. "Are you going to see the girls again today? I didn't ask you last night how your talk went."
Emily followed Alison up the stairs, her hand gently grazing Alison's hips. "Well, we had a few other things we talked about last night," Emily said, rolling her eyes.
"Yes," Alison scowled, hating the reminder of the talk that made her want to set her bed ablaze and jump out the window. "But then you had your wicked way with me," she purred, her voice turning low and seductive, as she pulled Emily's hands around her waist and guided them into the bedroom. "Which was way much more fun than talking about Spencer, Aria and Hanna."
Emily planted a gentle kiss on Alison's neck and a soft chuckle escaped her lips. Alison moaned and sighed as her head fell back. "Em, stop it. I'll never get in the shower if you start that."
Alison pulled away and walked over to her dresser, reaching into the top drawer to retrieve a matching panty and bra set. "So, how did your talk go?"
Emily flopped down on the unmade bed, sinking into the softness of the sheets, as Pepe trotted into the room and leaped up to join her.
"It was fine. I told them I'm not ready to forgive them completely but I'll get there. And I will. We have too much history to throw our friendship away. But if they ever lie to me again, I'm done."
Alison leaned against the dresser, her lips curving as she watched Emily throw her arm over Pepe.
"Your heart is more forgiving than anyone else I know. They don't deserve your forgiveness." Alison's smile slipped off her lips. "But then again, neither do I. So who I am to talk?"
Emily lifted her head from where it was resting on Pepe's side. "Ali, we're not having this discussion again."
Alison rolled her eyes and headed to the bathroom. Emily followed her with her eyes. "I took them to Fields House yesterday."
Alison whirled around, her eyes narrowing as she shot a glare at her girlfriend. "What? Why?"
"When I told them how much you've changed they were curious about what you're like now. So I showed them. I hope that's okay."
"Does it matter? It's done now," Alison snarked as she spun and walked into the bathroom.
"Shit!" Emily muttered under her breath as she scurried off the bed and followed Alison into the bathroom.
"I'm sorry if I overstepped, Ali. But I'm so fucking proud of you," Emily said, using a rarely used curse as Alison stripped out of her pajamas and turned on the shower. Emily took Alison's hand and made her turn around. The blonde avoided eye contact and glanced at the mirror above the sink.
"I know you don't care what they think of you. And it doesn't matter to me if they approve of us or not. But you're this amazing person, Ali, even though you loathe people knowing it. You have one of the biggest hearts of anyone I've ever known. And I'm proud of who you are and all you've done to help those girls."
Alison's body softened at her girl's words.
"Ali, look at me," Emily said gently as she tilted Alison's face toward her. "I fall more in love with you every day because your soul is so damn beautiful, and I want everyone to know it."
Alison leaned forward, relishing the sensation of Emily's long chocolate locks as she ran her fingers through their softness. She kissed her girl, pouring her gratitude and love into the kiss.
Emily wrapped her arms around Alison's naked body, returning the kiss just as fervently, until Alison finally leaned back and smiled. "Okay. Okay. I'm not mad at you for taking them there."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, Em. I was for a minute, but when you say things like that to me, you know I can't stay mad at you." Alison pulled away. "Now, are you getting in with me?"
"No. I'll take mine after."
Alison pouted as she turned and stepped into the shower. "You're no fun."
Emily walked back into the bedroom to change the bed. She urged Pepe off the mattress, but he was not impressed and just plopped down in his bed at the end. She just finished when Alison came back into the room wearing her panties and bra.
"Why did you change the bed?" she asked as she grabbed jeans and a t-shirt from the drawer.
"Because you're right. Pepe needs a bath. Does this duvet have to be dry cleaned?"
"Yeah. Regan and I can drop it off while we're out."
Emily walked into the closet and tossed the dirty sheets in the hamper. "While you're gone, I'm taking him to the dog groomer."
"Oh, do you hear that, Pepe?" Alison cooed at Pepe in his bed as she slipped her jeans up her legs. "Em's gonna take you for a bath."
Pepe looked unimpressed again.
"So, what did they say?" Alison asked casually when Emily walked out of the closet.
"Huh?"
"The girls. What did they say about Fields House?"
Alison's too casual tone brought a curve to Emily's lips as she made her way over to her. She ran her fingers softly down the blonde's back as Alison slipped her t-shirt over her head.
Alison shuddered softly, and Emily gripped Alison's hips from behind. She met Alison's eyes in the mirror.
"They were impressed, just like everyone else who knows what you've done."
Alison rolled her eyes. "When are they leaving?"
"On a red eye tonight. They asked if they could see us again before they leave. I told them I'd talk to you."
"Sure they want to see us," Alison said skeptically.
Emily hooked her fingers into Alison's belt loops, just wanting to keep touching her in some way. "Yes, they do. They specifically said they would like to see both of us before they leave."
Emily's eyes followed Alison's every move as she fastened her earrings and Apple watch. With a knowing smirk, Alison relished in the feel of Emily's eyes on her because she reveled in the sensation of being watched.
"Even Hanna?"
"She's the one who asked."
Alison turned to face Emily and slid her arms around her waist. "Do you want to see them?"
"Only if you do. I've said all I need to say to them right now. And I don't want you to get upset, so I'll leave it up to you."
"I guess we could invite them over for dinner before they head to the airport." Alison tugged Emily closer. "But only if you make your dark chocolate raspberry truffle cake."
Emily couldn't help but laugh at Alison's transparent ploy to get the brunette to make anything chocolate. "I guess I could do that."
"I could make my veggie lasagna," Alison offered. "I'll send Regan to the store to buy the ingredients."
"Do you think you'll ever be able to forgive them?" Emily asked, her voice filled with curiosity, yet careful not to pressure Alison. She didn't want Alison to feel obligated to forgive them.
Alison tilted her head, quiet for a moment before she answered, "For hurting you? Never. For everything they did to me? Well, I'd say we're probably even." She kissed Emily's chin and then rubbed her nose against Emily's softly.
"Don't worry about me, baby. If you want them in our lives, I'll play nice as long as they do, too."
#########
"You're seriously going to photograph the next Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue? That's insane!" Hanna said, taking a sip of her wine at Alison's dining table. "Caleb's gonna be so jealous."
The five women had just finished a dinner of Alison's veggie lasagna, salad, and garlic bread. Alison had planned to have dinner on the back patio, but an unexpected rain shower a half an hour earlier thwarted her plans. Regardless, dinner had gone surprisingly well, as everyone tactfully avoided discussing any controversial topics.
"Why? He isn't a photographer," Emily asked, reaching over and casually running her fingers through the ends of Alison's blonde hair.
"Because Ali's gonna be there with all those hot, practically naked models. Hell, I think I might actually be jealous too."
Alison snorted. "Hanna, it's just a swimsuit photoshoot. I've done dozens of them."
"That's like a gay guy saying 'it's just a Chip and Dale's calendar' photoshoot," Hanna retorted sarcastically.
"I've done those too," Alison said casually.
"What?" Hanna sat forward with wide eyes. "When?"
Alison shrugged as she waved her hand. "Last year. It was actually a sexy firefighter calendar for a local animal rescue Pepe and I volunteer at sometimes," Alison said, again casually, as if it were no big deal.
Emily's hand slid up under Alison's hair, her fingers gently caressing the soft skin of her neck. Alison sighed, reveling in the soft touch of her girl's fingers, her gaze shifting to meet Emily's. She winked at the brunette and Emily couldn't resist leaning over to give Alison a soft kiss.
"Awww," Aria said at the same time Hanna spoke again.
"Oh my God, do you still have one?"
"Hanna, you're so predictable," Spencer laughed.
"It's hanging on the back of the pantry door," Alison replied, pointing to the door on the other side of the kitchen.
Hanna jumped out of her chair and rushed over to the pantry. She grabbed the calendar off the hook and walked back to the table as she perused it.
"Oh, hello there, handsome," Hanna purred as she saw Mr. March. She sat in her chair beside Aria and the two women flipped through the rest of the calendar. "You don't mind if I keep this, do you, Ali?"
"Sure, it's all yours. I've got more upstairs."
"These are great, Ali," Aria said as she smiled over at Alison.
"Thanks," Ali replied.
"She was chosen for the swimsuit issue for a reason," Emily said proudly. By now, she'd seen plenty of Alison's photos and was amazed, though not surprised, by her girlfriend's talent. "You're the first female photographer to be hired to shoot it, Ali. That's a big deal, so don't play it down."
"Thanks, Em," Alison said, scrunching her nose playfully at her girl.
"When do you leave for Fiji?" Spencer asked as she poured herself another glass of wine.
"A little over a week and a half. But this is only the first of three shoots. The second one is in the early January and the third is in March. Then the issue comes out in May."
"Damn," Hanna said, her mind too preoccupied to register the rest of the conversation. "If I didn't love Caleb so much, I would totally marry Mr. December. Tell me, Ali, did he have anything on under that big red bow?"
"Hanna," Emily sputtered and Alison smirked. "Can we move please past the calendar?"
"What?" Hanna said as she made a face and turned the calendar so the table could see the shirtless firefighter wearing nothing but a Santa hat, suspenders and a strategically place bow at his waist. There was a white kitten with a matching Santa hat sitting on his shoulder. "Look at him, Em. Even a lesbian can appreciate perfection like that."
Emily shrugged. "Sorry, Hanna. He does nothing for me. Now if Ali was wearing nothing but a Santa hat, suspenders and a big red bow, then you'd have my interest."
Everyone laughed, even Alison and Hanna, and Alison fluttered her eyes flirtatiously.
"If you play your cards right, we might just be able to recreate that shot this Christmas, baby."
"Okay, let's move on from the kinky stuff Ali and Em are into," Aria said, hoping to steer the conversation in a different direction. "So, Ali, is Em going with you to Fiji?"
Alison couldn't hide her disappointment. "I want her to, but I'll be gone for three weeks."
"I can't take that much time off work unless I want to get fired," Emily replied, her own disappointment evident in her voice.
"Where are the other shoots?" Spencer asked.
"The one in January is in Switzerland and the one in March is in Morocco."
Alison's phone rang. She stood up and walked to the kitchen counter where it was charging.
"Hey, Ruby," Alison said as she answered the phone. "Everything okay?"
Emily's gaze met Alison's, and with a nod of reassurance, Alison made her way outside onto the patio, closing the sliding door behind her.
"Is that the Ruby we met yesterday at Fields House?"
Emily nodded. "She and Ali are pretty close. Ali's trying to get social services to let her stay at Fields House permanently rather than go to a foster home."
"Why?" Aria asked.
Emily's eyes followed Alison's back-and-forth movements as she spoke animatedly to Ruby.
"She was pretty badly abused both at home and then in a foster home. She's terrified to leave Fields House. When Ali took her in, she drove all the way to Northern California to pick her up off the streets because the shelter up there was full."
"We should probably head to the airport soon," Spencer said after looking at her watch. "We still have to return the rental car."
"Not before I taste a piece of that raspberry chocolate truffle masterpiece over there," Hanna replied, setting the calendar aside, just as Alison came back in from the patio.
"Ruby, you need to get a grip. What did I tell you?" At the girl's response, Alison added. "I won't let them do that. I'll be there with you and Nicole for that meeting." After another brief pause, Alison scoffed gently. "No. I won't yell at the woman from social services again. Just get some sleep and I'll come over to see you tomorrow." Emily stood up to get the cake and Alison reached for her arm. "Yeah, she's right here." She looked up at Emily. "She wants to talk to you for a minute."
Emily gave Alison a questioning look and then nodded. "Can you grab the dessert? The girls need to leave for the airport soon. Hey, Ruby."
Alison led Emily toward the slider to let her know she should keep this private. After Emily stepped out to the patio, Alison slid the door shut and turned around.
"Sorry about that."
"We met Ruby yesterday," Aria said. "Em said she's had a rough time."
"She got dealt a really shit hand," Alison said with a frown as she grabbed the cake from the counter and carried it over to the table. "No kid should have to live through what she did."
"It's a great thing you're doing for those girls, Ali," Spencer said.
Alison caught Spencer's eye, and she could see the genuine sincerity reflected in them. Her lips curled upwards in a grateful smile.
"I know what it's like to be alone and scared on the streets, so it's the least I can do," Alison replied, before she looked around the table, wanting to change the subject.
"Now who's ready to die and go to chocolate heaven?"
##########
Alison moaned softly as the chocolate hit her tongue, savoring the velvety texture as it melted on her taste buds. Four pairs of eyes snapped to her, one instantly heating with desire while the other three widened in surprise.
"Damn, Ali," Aria choked over her own bite of cake. "You sound like you're having an orgasm."
"If eaten the right way, Em's chocolate can cause an orgasm, right baby?" Alison purred, teasing her girl about their escapades making Ruby's birthday cake.
Emily's eyes widened and heat raced up her neck and into her cheeks. She choked on the bite of cake she'd just taken as she cried out. "Ali!"
Alison reached over and smacked her on the back as the brunette coughed.
"Okay, I thought we said no talk about your kinky fetishes, Ali," Aria teased and Alison shrugged unapologetically before moaning again as she took another bite of the cake.
"Fuck, Ali. If that's how you sound when you orgasm, I'd probably be tempted to fuck you, too," Hanna said, her eyes flashing with mischief.
Aria and Spencer burst out in surprised laughter and Emily spit out the next bite of cake she'd just taken. "Jesus, Hanna!"
"You okay, baby?" Alison asked as she reached over and patted Emily on the back again.
"Just sayin'" Hanna smirked in response and Alison's lips curved into a matching one. She swiped her finger across her plate, gathering up some chocolate ganache, and brought it to her lips. She swirled her tongue over the tip of her finger seductively.
"Not in this lifetime, Hanna. All my orgasms are for Em, alone."
"Your loss," Hanna shrugged casually, but the two blondes held each other's gaze and something passed between them.
And maybe.
Just maybe, Alison thought, she and Hanna could finally leave their past behind.
Thanks again for reading and please leave a reply if you enjoyed it. Reviews make my heart happy.