Bound by Pages

**Chapter 1: The Unlikely Encounter** The quaint bell above the door of *Old World Books* chimes softly, and the room subtly metamorphoses with his entrance. The scent of aged parchment and dust motes dancing in the sunlit air is infiltrated by his cologne, an earthy-woodsy aroma announcing his unseen approach. Alex Thorne surveyed the tightly-packed shop, each bookshelf a labyrinth, each book a potential lover whispering a promise of stories to unfold as a conquered beauty would. Nothing especially rare to be found at first glance. Perhaps this jaunt to the countryside was a fool’s errand after all. Then, there she was, as if a mere thought of romance could conjure a heroine into existence – dark hair pinned haphazardly askew, spectacles angled atop her nose, heart-shaped lips pursed in concentration over a large tome splayed before her. There was something compelling about her, the graceful curve of her body leaning over the counter. Her shapely figure draped in a floral sundress, her calves tapering elegantly to a pair of ankle boots that seemed fashioned of old books themselves. Her frontal button closure left but two undone displaying the subtle curve of her bosom. It was a sight that caused Alex to stand long before her before her counter, unnoticed; his poise nonchalant only from long practice as he watched her. She looked up, with a bored half-smile, calm as a figure painted upon the ceiling of some ancient church. Emily smiled with placid indifference, until her eyes met his--until those eyes, green as the sea, those eyes as green asobi smashed into his. Calm, a mere front, a mask she had not the need for. There is nothing nonchalant about the way his hand overwhelms hers as he exchanges currency for the last copy of Bulgakov's "The Master and Margarita" stretched across the counter. A smirk of arrogance plays on his lips, tips of fangs unseen just behind his smile. A kiss of danger, both to her and the book... How, she wondered, was there now a copy of her favorite book suddenly deficient in her life...in this shop? Alex flashed an ingratiating smile half-mocking, half-sincere, and opened his mouth to speak but she, she was gone and no longer before him. A whirlwind of movement to a bookshelf located some distance behind her charges the air surrounding them. She hastily searches the books, running her manicured fingers along weathered bookbindings. Confusion reigns as a single thought cascades again and again rapidly within her mind. She saw it there. Yesterday, and the day before. And the day before that! She felt it, her heart beating wildly now. Has been looking in at it for years. Its presence was always taken for granted. Even this morning...she would have sworn she had seen it before fetching the boxed glassware out of the early morning sun. "Pardon me, who's in charge of this establishment?" Resentfully, she turns the words echoing in her mind to face him, to face his voice utter ridiculousness about margins, Behemoth, and the Devil himself: "Err, the owner? Richard Grimsley. But he's not in at the moment. May I help you? Emily queries him. "One would certainly hope so" he replies to her with a vulpine flash of that smirk to distract her--to ignore his word choice and that alone. Perhaps he did not understand how beautifully odd her mind worked as her eyes flashed flame green at his condescension, all thoughts of the other book receding in her now agitated consciousness. "And how may I help you" she retorts. "I must get possession of this title. How much?" Careful, maybe he did not know the parsimonious ways of the man whom the letter claimed. "It's non-negotiable and not for sale". "What??" "To be polite, this book is irreplaceable." "Note it sold. But let's be polite, how much extra shall I add to your current upward expiration? Then, it won't, I assure, be too hot to touch. Surely you could have sussed out that I am on the same quest that calls to you. But remember, finders keepers!” Dizziness surged upon her and her heart jumped within her throat. She would not sell out to this male chauvinist pig of a Rare Books Writer. She stares as if benumbed, but as if she could look through his desire for the book and slowly perceives that he isn’t the rude-self-assuming man she had at first sight supposed. He was now looking at her as if he was right by his side and his self-possessed grin was low, steady, and persuasive -- deep and mellifluous were the tones of his voice, just as if he had an understanding of the things he had said to her. Her senses swam as she clutched the book in question heatedly to her breast. Abruptly, he snatched for it. A sinister slyness to his words as he spoke...”I am separated from the book by but a mere page…let me show you…Help…be nice" To her further surprise, his free hand suddenly found the small of her back, pressing her into his firmness causing her eyes to widen, their emerald orbs locking with his gaze. He was too close, dangerously close, and her breathing hitched at his proximity. In response to his questing suggestion, instinctively she tapped her finger on his lips for silence. But like a cat, he could not resist the fascination of the bird that ventures too close and tightly he sucked her fingertip drawing upon it with a sudden hunger that defied description. She stifled a gasp, frozen in the molten heat of his gaze, she felt the burn of a spark. A shiver danced down her spine as a single word was whispered her lips, barely voiced: "Stop..." his eyes then perused her face for what seemed to be forever while a single drop of expectant sweat fell from his face and exploded upon the dusty floor. He stood staring into her eyes, and gently taking the finger from his teeth and softly kissing its tip. “ I should go,” Emily stammered, heart drumming in her ears. Unnervingly, he responded by seizing her hand firm in his grasp as warring emotions fought behind her eyes. Emily wished to yank it away but found in herself a strange unwillingness to do so. His lips settled softly over hers as he lent into her. A hint of mint sweetening his breath and her eyelids fell shut static electricity lept about the bookstore warming her skin. And then, the floor fell further out from beneath her when she felt his tongue, like a flame, press its way into her mouth. His kiss was gentle yet firm and strangely conflicted her inner struggles, birthing a need she had not known she possessed. She gasped as his weight pressed against her, pinning her to the bookshelf. The scent of him mixed with the dust of old books was intoxicating. His hands gripped her waist, fingers digging into her flesh as he held her tightly, kissing her deeply. She could feel his desire, hard and insistent, pressed against her hip. A moan escaped her lips as his mouth moved from her lips to her neck, trailing hot kisses down her throat. He held her firmly gripping her hair as she twisted against him. "Don't," She whispered, the word sounding weak even to her own ears. She fought against herself, but she could not keep herself from stifling a moan that grew, nor from grabbing at the hem of his shirt, a soft gray linen, lifting it to expose the rippling muscles of a hard toned belly. A small tattoo of an Argentine sloth bearing the motto "rest, don't hurry...hurrying is sure death. The haste of hurry hurries you!-- to hell" written in beautifully curved letters beneath His hands explored her body as she resisted drawing him to leave the bookstore along an aisle not much more than a goat path into the back of the shop...As they drew back further and deeper in, she had doubts about any of the books along this particular corridor had seen the light of day. But Alex, ah, Alex! He had no intention of releasing her without knowing her. As she draws her hand down, she felt a warm swelling between his legs that made her heart pound with anticipation, confusion, and strange fear. Until, then--with sudden haste he hoisted her up pressed hard into her as he ground against her eliciting a pleasure sharp and liquid between her legs unwelcomed by her yet irresistible. She could feel the heat of his body searing through his shirt as he moved against her, and in response to a second moan, low and hungry, rose from his chest. His eyes burned with a desire that left her breathless as he held her arms behind her back, whispering quietly into her ear, "Is this what you want?" She couldn't find the words to respond, so she merely shook her head. A smirk twisted his lips as he chuckled, " Liar." Alex's hand trailed down to grasp the hem of her dress, a soft floral print that buttoned down her chest. He toyed absently and gently with the buttons, running a finger against her smooth breasts and releasing his fingers as she grabbed at them gently. Slowly, her body yielding to his touch, he reached up to cup her breast, teasing her nipple through the thin fabric which tried but failed to hide her swelling nipples and the obvious reach of beauty's blush. She gasped as he pinched the hardening peak, rolling it between his fingers sending a searing flame-sharp heat to smolder within the dampness below... As they tumbled among the books, disordering the dust and scent of years with their passion Emily needed nothing so much as to feel Alex press against her flesh like he pressed against her soft and yielding mind. Alex, happy for none save the importunity of her, gathered her soft folds of skin into his teeth while Emily's hand persisted to run about the clump of metal of his belt. She fought against the belt, eventually shedding it to the floor, jangling and clanging. The very weight of their bodies drowned out the clamor as their hips turned in their crumple against the wall leaving no doubt about their needs. In a moment, they are no longer damp but dampening...hard now, not soft and gentle. With a single heave of his musculature Alex drove her against the wall and effortlessly as a king snake shedding skin, letting it fall about her waist and lifting her hips to his glans. She gasped for air as he effortlessly slid up into her.. He thrust into her, hard and fast, stealing her breath away. His lips crushed against hers, swallowing her cries. Her nails dug into his back, holding him close as he drove into her repeatedly, his hips moving like a piston. Emily felt her body rally but Alex was right behind her as she felt a searing heat build up within. The world dissolved into a haze of pleasure as her orgasm spiraled, stealing her breath and leaving her limp in his arms. Alex followed the sounds that bubbled up from her chest, relishing in their desperate harmony. He slowed his thrusts, drawing out her pleasure until he reached his own climax, shuddering and gasping against her. They stood there for a long moment, panting and leaning against the wall before he slowly lowered her to the ground. Her limbs still trembling from their frenzied coupling. He had seen the lid of her body fly into the air above them...a small bit of laundry clutched to a gust of breeze...she had turned around and realized finally that Alex is her best friend...and for ever. She looked up at him, her lips swollen from his kisses, her eyes glazed with spent passion. He brushed a stray lock of hair from her face, tucking it gently behind her ear. But then, his face hardened, and a cold look entered his eyes. He handed a tattered old book, dusty from sitting upon that shelf for centuries. A book that Emily had not seen before this moment. For most intents and purposes, a book to which she knew no reach. "There is a heart's desire here. Not mine. A token of my undying trust." Emily appraised him. She'd never had a man hand her a book before. In a smooth, seemingly effortless motion she rises from the floor. Her legs once again steady, but bracing upon the floor. A locked a door til now extravagant of pleasure, a sudden unknown sting of pain thrusts between her legs. Endlessly impacting within the innermost recesses of her cheeks, a smudge of dampness. Without turning away, but with a shrug, smoothing her skirt she retorts, " What crap have you written between the covers of the books you would write in the Book of You?" The writer had turned as though to go. Deflated, perplexed, rather than leaving she turned to avert to answer, but waited for his reply, "Make the most of this storm" was all he said, suddenly leaving Emily watching him walk away having left her alone amidst a sea of books echoing of a passion still fleshly. Chapter 2: The Fake Relationship Emily watched Alex's retreating figure, her breath still ragged, her body aching from the unexpected encounter. She clutched the book he had handed her, her fingers tracing the worn spine as her mind raced. The door chimed softly as he left, leaving her alone in the quiet of the bookshop, the scent of their passion still lingering in the air. She looked down at the book, her eyes scanning the title. It was a rare first edition, a book she knew had been sought by many, including Richard Grimsley, the owner of the bookshop. She had heard rumors of his underhanded dealings, his willingness to obtain valuable books by any means necessary. She couldn't let this book fall into his hands. The bell above the door chimed again, and Emily looked up, expecting to see a customer. Instead, Alex stood there, his eyes locked onto hers. He stepped inside, closing the door behind him, his expression serious. "We need to talk," he said, his voice low. Emily nodded, setting the book down on the counter. "About what?" she asked, her voice steadier than she felt. Alex ran a hand through his hair, his eyes never leaving hers. "About that book," he said, nodding towards it. "And about Grimsley." Emily's eyes widened in surprise. "You know about Grimsley?" she asked. Alex nodded. "I know he's been looking for that book. And I know he won't stop at anything to get it." Emily's mind raced, pieces clicking into place. "That's why you were here," she said. "That's why you wanted the book." Alex nodded again. "I can't let him have it, Emily. And neither can you." Emily looked down at the book, her fingers tracing the cover. When she looked back up at Alex, there was a determination in her eyes. "So what do we do?" she asked. Alex's lips curved into a smirk, that same smirk that had infuriated her earlier. Now, though, it sent a thrill through her, a reminder of their passionate encounter. "We give him what he wants," Alex said. "Or at least, we make him think we are." Emily's brows furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean?" she asked. Alex leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "We pretend to be in a relationship," he said. "We make Grimsley think we're together, that we're sharing the book. He won't dare try to take it if he thinks it'll cause a scandal." Emily stared at him, her mind trying to process his words. A fake relationship? With Alex? She looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity there, the determination to keep the book safe. And she saw something else, something that sent a shiver down her spine. Desire. She took a deep breath, her mind made up. "Alright," she said. "Let's do it." Alex's smirk widened into a genuine smile, and Emily felt her heart flutter in response. This was going to be interesting. Their first 'date' was a simple affair, a walk through the park, hand in hand. Emily felt a strange thrill at the feel of Alex's hand in hers, his fingers strong and sure. She looked up at him, seeing the way the sunlight played on his features, the way his eyes crinkled at the corners when he smiled. They sat down on a bench, the trees above them casting dappled shadows on the ground. Alex turned to her, his eyes soft. "You know," he said, "I've never done this before." Emily raised an eyebrow. "Done what?" she asked. Alex gestured between them. "This," he said. "A fake relationship. It's...strange." Emily laughed, a soft, gentle sound. "It is," she agreed. "But it's also kind of nice." Alex looked at her, his eyes searching hers. "It is," he agreed. He leaned in then, his hand cupping her cheek. Emily's breath hitched as she felt the warmth of his skin against hers, the softness of his touch. He was going to kiss her, she realized. And she wanted him to. His lips brushed against hers, soft and gentle. Emily felt a spark ignite within her, a flame that burned brighter as Alex deepened the kiss. His tongue traced the seam of her lips, and she opened for him, her body pressing against his. Alex's hand slid from her cheek to her neck, his fingers tangling in her hair. Emily gasped as he tugged lightly, exposing her neck to his hungry mouth. He trailed kisses down her throat, his teeth nipping at her sensitive skin. Emily's hands gripped his shoulders, her nails digging into his flesh. She could feel the hardness of his muscles beneath his shirt, the strength of his body. She wanted more. She wanted to feel his skin against hers, to feel his body moving against her, within her. Alex seemed to sense her need, his hand sliding down to cup her breast. Emily arched into his touch, a moan escaping her lips as he rubbed his thumb over her hardened nipple. She could feel the heat of his body, the hardness of his desire pressing against her. She reached for him, her hand sliding up his thigh to cup his erection. Alex groaned, his hips bucking into her touch. He reached for the hem of her dress, his fingers sliding up her thigh, pushing the fabric aside. Emily's body ached with need, her heart pounding in her chest. She wanted him, wanted this. She spread her legs, allowing Alex access to her most intimate place. He slid a finger inside her, his thumb rubbing against her clit. Emily gasped, her body arching into his touch. She could feel the pleasure building within her, the tension coiling tightly in her core. Alex's fingers moved within her, his thumb circling her clit, driving her higher and higher. She reached for him, her hand fumbling with the buttons of his pants. She needed to feel him, to touch him. She slid her hand inside, wrapping her fingers around his length. Alex groaned, his hips bucking into her touch. She stroked him, her hand moving in time with his fingers. The pleasure was intense, overwhelming. Emily could feel her orgasm building, her body tensing as Alex drove her higher and higher. She stroked him faster, her hand gripping him tightly. She could feel his body tensing, his breath coming in ragged gasps. They came together, their bodies convulsing as pleasure washed over them. Alex's fingers gripped her tightly, his body shuddering as he spilled into her hand. Emily's body clenched around his fingers, her orgasm ripping through her, leaving her breathless and shaking. As they came down from their high, their bodies entwined on the bench, Emily looked up at Alex. She saw the softness in his eyes, the gentleness of his smile. And she realized, in that moment, that she was seeing him in a new light. She had thought him arrogant, selfish. But now, she saw the man behind the façade, the man who was willing to go to great lengths to protect something he cared about. And she realized, with a start, that she was no longer sure she disliked him. In fact, she was beginning to think that she might just like him after all. As they sat there, their bodies entwined, Emily felt a sense of contentment wash over her. This fake relationship might just be the real thing after all. **Chapter 3: The Magical Academy Ball** The grand ballroom of the Magical Academy was a spectacle to behold. The vaulted ceiling glittered with enchanted crystals, casting a soft, ethereal glow over the assembled crowd. The air was filled with the sweet scent of roses and the lilting melody of a string quartet. The room buzzed with the hushed whispers of the academy's elite, all gathered to celebrate another year of magical education. Emily, draped in a shimmering emerald gown that matched her eyes, clung tightly to Alex's arm. He, striking in a tailored black suit, led her through the crowded room. They painted a portrait of a couple deeply in love, their fake relationship a façade that was becoming harder to maintain with each passing day. Every stolen glance, every accidental touch, sent jolts of electricity coursing through their veins. As they reached the dance floor, Alex turned to her, a soft smile playing on his lips. "May I have this dance?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper. Emily nodded, placing her hand in his. The string quartet struck up a slow, romantic melody as Alex pulled her close, his hand resting on the small of her back. Their bodies moved in sync, their breaths mingling, their hearts beating as one. Emily could feel the heat of his body, the strength of his arms around her. She looked up into his eyes, seeing the reflection of the crystal lights dancing in his gaze. There was a tenderness there, a longing that took her breath away. Alex spun her around the dance floor, his hand gripping hers tightly. He pulled her close, his lips brushing against her ear. "You look breathtaking tonight," he whispered, his voice hoarse with desire. Emily shivered, her body pressing against his. She could feel his heart pounding in his chest, echoing her own. His confession was soft, almost vulnerable in a way that seemed distant from his earlier smugness. His voice, the words, created a sudden tingle in her chest. It was like listening to poetry, the sound of it, the way he spoke each syllable in time with her heartbeat, the unaffected reveal of his feelings. The words, again and again, a breathing force. He lowered his head and Emily's breath hitched, the room tilting the axis of her world and he spoke into her eyes: "You saw it. Yesterday, and the day before. And the day before that! I would have sworn I had seen it before fetching the boxed glassware out of the early morning sun. Since I saw you and kissed you. I medically diagnosed myself to stem my need to possess you and press you into my side. The need to possess you. To see you is to taste you." Emily's eyes widened in surprise, her steps faltering. Alex's grip tightened, steadying her. "Alex," she began, her voice barely a whisper. "You can't...we can't..." She searched his eyes, uncertainty revealed in her depth pooled eyes. Alex's gaze never left hers, his eyes burning with intensity. "I can't stop thinking about you, Emily. You're driving me mad with need." His hand slid down her back, pressing her against him, letting her feel the evidence of his desire. "I want you, Emily. More than I've ever wanted anyone." The music ended and it was a quiet void carrying to its end, replaced by the harsh equations of the air, filled with the quantum static of the stares, conspiring in innuendo. Emily's breath came in ragged gasps, her body aching with need. The lights and eyes clouded into the realm of her peripheral vision. In that moment it was only him. Everything else in the room faded away, leaving only the two of them, locked in their embrace, their hearts pounding in sync and the words summoned out of her throat... “What is your heart Alex...A mansion resplendent for one person? Please say it, and please make it true.” His lips crashed down on hers, a hungry, desperate kiss that stole her breath away like a book, he never visioned of reading. There was nothing gentle about it, nothing soft. It was a claim, a brand, a promise of more to come. Emily's hands gripped his shoulders, her nails digging into his flesh as she kissed him back, her body pressing against his. In the distance of their minds, the clock struck midnight signaling the unneeded approach of the higher chaparones. The pair tore away leaving the tiniest traces of each other's blood upon one another's lips and breaths left purpled and gray. He looked into her eyes, his gaze intense. "Come with me," he said, his voice a low growl. Emily hesitated, uncertainty warring with desire. She looked around the room, seeing the curious glances, the whispered words behind raised flutes. She knew what she should do, what she had to do. But she also knew what she wanted to do... He continued to speak his words audible only to her. She could hear each of his words in a private frequency and playing only for her. It was a an imagined world and voice over played. It beamed brightly spackling busy light onto her face and into her heart. "With you Emily, I would relish for myself above all others my girl, my perfect girl Emily. A library of you and I bound in words and thoughts, a synthesis to savor while lost in the split between reflection and degustation." What she heard from them, the spirits that woven from that dress brought, his vulnerable release like the book hidden untitled across the back alcove had fallen. Deliberately torn open. This man known even better than herself. But did she also know that in that instant, their fake relationship had crossed a line, blurring into something real, something dangerous? She looked up at him, her eyes filled with longing. She made her choice, her voice steady and sure. "Sometimes I too take the pillow at night and pierce into a single spot on it with the bone of my jaw so I to may tear into the fabric and bury my face where no one can sense my moans and then rip it open revealing to me the exploded thought without the sound, the mania when not assailed by the thoughts and the presence of your emotions overwhelming me, your vision. I love you for every day. " He took her face into his large hands covering her ears and pressed another kiss upon her mouthed to show her that she would destroy his speech if she continued, his voice fueled with a determined urgency that grew faster and faster. "Come into my Beautiful world Emily..." They did not notice, did not, see Alex's boss, the sly and determined eyes watching from behind an onyx and gold glass cradled between his fingers cupped from point to point as he reclined into a triple curved chair. The gleam in his eyes focused upon them had become fixed, as stonger as the shine from off the bulge in his breast pocket. And their was the chiseled toothpaste smile of his own. **Chapter 4: The Rival's Confession** Emily stood before the mirror, her reflection staring back at her with eyes wide and uncertain. The emerald gown she worn to the Magical Academy Ball was draped over the back of a chair, replaced by a silken robe that clung to her curves. Her mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, a chaotic mix of doubt and desire. She couldn't deny the feelings that had begun to stir within her, the longing that grew with each moment spent with Alex. But she also couldn't forget the reason their 'relationship' had begun, the charade they were playing to keep a precious book from falling into the wrong hands. A soft knock at her door startled her from her thoughts. She turned as the door opened, revealing Alex standing in the dimly lit hallway. His jacket and tie were gone, his shirt collar undone, revealing a hint of the muscled chest beneath. His eyes met hers, and she felt a shiver run down her spine, a warmth spread through her core. Alex stepped into the room, closing the door behind him. His gaze never left hers as he stalked towards her, his intent clear in his eyes. Emily backed away, her heart pounding in her chest, her breath coming in quick gasps. She was suddenly, acutely aware of the large bed behind her, the intimacy of the setting. "Alex," she began, her voice barely a whisper. "We can't...I can't..." Her words trailed off as he continued to advance, his body mere inches from hers. She could feel the heat of him, the scent of his cologne filling her senses. Alex reached up, his hand cupping her cheek. His thumb brushed against her skin, a gentle caress that sent a jolt of electricity through her. "Emily," he said, his voice hoarse with desire. "I can't fight this anymore. I can't fight how much I want you." Emily's eyes widened, her lips parting in surprise. Alex took advantage of her silence, his head dipping down, his lips capturing hers in a fierce, possessive kiss. His tongue swept into her mouth, claiming her, branding her. Emily moaned, her body melting into his, her hands gripping his shoulders. Alex's hands slid down her body, his fingers finding the tie of her robe. He tugged at it, the silken material falling open to reveal her naked flesh beneath. He stepped back, his gaze roving over her, his eyes dark with hunger. "You're so beautiful, Emily," he murmured, his voice thick with desire. "So incredibly beautiful." He reached for her, his hands cupping her breasts, his thumbs brushing against her hardened nipples. Emily gasped, her head falling back, her eyes fluttering closed. Alex's lips found her neck, his teeth nipping at her sensitive skin as his hands explored her body. He slid one hand down, his fingers slipping between her thighs. Emily's breath hitched as he found her heat, his fingers stroking her, teasing her. She could feel the pleasure building within her, the tension coiling tightly in her core. Alex's fingers slid inside her, his thumb rubbing against her clit, driving her higher and higher. Emily reached for him, her hand fumbling with the buttons of his shirt. She needed to feel his skin, to touch him. Alex shrugged out of his shirt, his body pressing against hers. She could feel the hardness of his muscles, the heat of his flesh. His erection pressed against her hip, and she reached down, her hand wrapping around his length. Alex groaned, his hips bucking into her touch. He grabbed her wrist, pulling her hand away. "Not yet," he growled, his voice low and dominant. "Tonight, I'm in control." He spun her around, his body pressing against her back. His hand fisted in her hair, pulling her head to the side, exposing her neck. He trailed kisses down her throat, his teeth nipping at her flesh. Emily moaned, her body pressing back against him, her hips grinding against his erection. Alex's hand slid down her body, his fingers finding her heat once more. He stroked her, his fingers sliding inside her, his thumb rubbing against her clit. Emily's breath came in ragged gasps, her body tensing as he drove her closer to the edge. Just as she was about to tumble over, Alex pulled away. Emily cried out in frustration, her body aching with need. Alex chuckled, the sound low and throaty. "Patience, love," he murmured, his voice a dark promise. He guided her to the bed, his body pressing against hers as he laid her down. He crawled over her, his knees nudging her thighs apart. Emily looked up at him, her eyes wide with anticipation, her breath coming in quick gasps. Alex's gaze roved over her, his eyes dark with hunger. "You're mine, Emily," he said, his voice a low growl. "Mine to touch, mine to taste, mine to fuck." Emily's breath hitched, her body throbbing with need at his words. Alex's head dipped down, his lips capturing hers in a fierce, possessive kiss. His body pressed against hers, his erection nudging at her entrance. Emily arched her hips, a silent plea for him to fill her. Alex slid into her, a slow, deliberate thrust that filled her completely. Emily moaned, her body stretching to accommodate him. He began to move, his hips thrusting against hers, his body claiming her, possessing her. Emily's hands gripped his shoulders, her nails digging into his flesh. She could feel the pleasure building within her, the tension coiling tightly in her core. Alex's body moved against hers, his hips thrusting faster, harder, driving her higher and higher. She came with a cry, her body convulsing around him, her orgasm ripping through her. Alex followed her over the edge, his body shuddering as he came deep inside her. As they lay there, their bodies entwined, their breaths mingling, Emily looked up at Alex. She saw the tenderness in his eyes, the love that shone through his gaze. And she knew, in that moment, that she loved him too. That she had always loved him, even when she had thought him her enemy. "Alex," she whispered, her voice soft and sure. "I love you. I've always loved you." Alex's eyes widened in surprise, his body tensing. Then, a slow smile spread across his face, his eyes filling with warmth. "I love you too, Emily," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "I've loved you since the moment I saw you, standing there in that bookshop, your eyes flashing with anger and passion." He leaned down, his lips brushing against hers in a soft, gentle kiss. A kiss that held the promise of a future, of a love that would last a lifetime. And as Emily kissed him back, her heart swelling with love, she knew that she had finally found her home, her safe haven, her forever. And it was right here, in Alex's arms. **Chapter 5: A New Chapter** Emily and Alex lay entwined in each other's arms, their breaths slowly returning to normal. The room was filled with the scent of their lovemaking, a musky sweetness that clung to their skin. Outside, the first light of dawn began to filter through the curtains, casting a soft glow over their bodies. Alex propped himself up on one elbow, looking down at Emily with a tender smile. He reached out, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "You know," he said, his voice soft, "I never thought I'd find someone who made me feel this way. Someone who made me want...more." Emily looked up at him, her eyes filled with love. "I know what you mean," she said. "I never thought I'd find someone who understood me, who challenged me, who made me feel alive." She reached up, cupping his cheek. "But I have. And I'm never letting you go." He lowered his head to softly kiss her lips. As the heat of that kiss faded, Alex was reminded there were other fires burning. And he-- rather, they needed to put them out. He murmured into her ear the words she did not want to hear, "Grimsley" Alex’s breath was hot on her neck but her skin around her lips and just under her eyes took a sudden cold character, as if they had been splashed with cold water. A single tear passed slowly down her cold, washed cheek. “That man is never going to have that book. Not in your presence. Not in my life, and most certainly not in our hands.” She said wrapped in a cloak of determined, vigilant certainty. "Do you not see Emily? How I battle with myself about him. I just don’t understand though...what he seeks...I sense however the resulting pit within his soul at this obsession. But be that as it may--- nothing at all justifies the illegalities he commits,” he said, his tone filled with a renewed sense of purpose. With the sun still breaking wearily over the distant steeples, the town opened slowly before them as the duo, holding hand in hand, sally forth to join within the now kindled street that fronted upon the Old World. The hush of furtiveness of the street was a comfortable cloak faded from the brilliance the two of them beamed. As they got closer, their spirits, notwithstanding discounting the giant man in the black coat actively mammoth between the cracks of hanging flesh of burned paper, continued to strive. She projected a coldness and a fist of rage, the burning determination of someone who had been fiercely wrought upon. But Alex, was a changed man. Where she wanted a pitched battle, he saw now a different path. His hands, trembling between both tears and laughter wrapped around her jaw, and he held her gently but firmly to his heart: “Emily,” His voice chopped now. "Something does not begin from nothing..." This pause was a threat, but weighed against the condition of Asmodeus himself; and here it only excited a new burst of nefariousness. "Richard. Go forthwith and reclaim the book -but- heed now Sir...but be quick within that vast treasury you call your library-- Seek," Alex said, his voice a low growl. She looked down and found him pressing something slightly warm something small circled in metal and fibre. "Further, know that we are yours yourself to check unsolicited upon our bookshop? Know that you are not the books possessor. The book is what it is." The two of them were safe with one another for now. their breathing was easier upon the space between them. Aug 20th, Grimsley would be dead. Extinguishing the books' fire for a moment they left him alone, walking the two of them out. Their steps were lighter too always closer to one another. Hot in the middle of two scorching cheeks beat satisfaction of a threats undisclosed kissing upon their faces air. It was a long, slow, violent exile. Years later a career cobbled: Emily could recall the passing of a single, slightly bent page, by not intending to pry into the gathering of a tell-tale corner of white that smoldered at the bottom resulting in a charred spectral illumination... The tonal sound the bell above the door of *Old World Books* released as it chimes softly, and the room subtly metamorphosed as with his entrance. The scent of aged parchment and dust motes dancing in the sunlit air is now infiltrated by his mutual coquettary mixture of earthy-woodsy aroma still thick and announcing the seemingly loving man's unseen approach. Broken book bindings of the display case before her are now adorned with a silver framed film print of them together laughing on the beach-a pearlescent seashell hanging around her neck while his doppelganger of a tapered twist of fine gold wire wraps around his neck possessing a small silver antique key that swayed gently while he steals a kiss before the counter to the rare books room closed in beside her. She whispers to him as their bodies sway into one another, "Alex, I love you so much..." She smiles with placid contentment. He walks around as she smiles into the case, until he reaches her, the unlocking of the latch of a vintage glass drawer revealed to hold the last copy of a now famous author's best-known work. He wraps his arms around her to Steal a moment, to wrap the rich moments of lore in with his chin pressed into her shoulder. To his wife it was a daily ritual as natural as her smile upon the sunlight that creased upon his kiss. The shop was quiet, the air filled with the familiar scent of old books and the soft hum of the heating system. Alex looked around, a sense of pride and contentment washing over him. This was his home, his sanctuary. And standing there, in the midst of it all, was Emily. Her hair was pulled back into a loose bun, a few tendrils framing her face. She wore a simple sweater and a pair of jeans, a pair of reading glasses perched on her nose. She was beautiful, her features softened by love and happiness. And then Alex slid one hand down her back, his fingers slipping between her thighs. Emily's breath hitched as he found her heat, his fingers stroking her, teasing her. She could feel the pleasure building within her, the tension coiling tightly in her core. Alex's fingers slid inside her, his thumb rubbing against her clit, driving her higher and higher. Only leaving her long enough so he could untuck the softeness of her shoulders from a loosely knit sweater- Soiled a bit from her toil over the drawer as it jammed, and lifted her arms to throw the shirt off to her side. He yanked off his tee shirt and pulled her into his skin. As they engaged amongst the books they didn't care they tumbled to their knees as they discarded the moments between clothes and thoughts of the healing system's performance. She could control nothing at all as the clasp of her bra was flicked off by his thumb and forefiner with ease, and his thumbs massaged swipes across her nipples, raising the texture of her bosom, shocking each little precious hair and extending them. She tugged and wrenched at him randomly. She needed him like never before and now dragged her fingers through his hair and pulled a handful through her clutch toward thrusting his head into her breast. Alex stroked her, his fingers sliding inside her, his thumb rubbing against her swollen lips, driving her higher and higher. Liquid and sweet, she tasted sweeter than the thousands of hours he had spent orally fornicating her and he longed to get up there. So he did. She gasped and gripped as he made her weak and rose. She pinned herself to the stair and Alex jammed to gloves inside clenching her ass, and moistening the ridges of the edges of her clitoris. She bucked and shook and shivered but Alex had not finished. He heaved her up and against the large review mirror adjacent the register and slid himself inside. Plunging with no gentle control he carried on hefting her weight. Together they slammed their togetherness onto the large sturdy desk to the rear or the case. The papers flew like confetti at the wedding it seemed to her after Alex stood her up and withdrew, spun her around and plunged back into her from behind. The heat of their passion blasted from there and disappeared into the depths of the ancient reference books on the wall behind. She thought his vigor was unstoppable as her body prepared to collaspe but he kept it from doing so...And then a crescendo akin to the overtures of a festival grew ever near. The pause hastened the explosion that ultimately arrived. Shrills of successful release filled every gap upon every shelf. It could be felt in the silence of its very deafening eternal. Thank God it was still early. The bell above the door chimed, the tiny sound it released announcing the entrance of the day's first customer. Weak but happy to Alex could only smile as Emily was gently lowered to her knees while he held her, kissing her gently on her mouth, then on her now still swelling now rolled nipples on her perfect breasts. Sliding outside of her still clenching grip was a phenomena of both the deserving and the venerated, and unwillingly he left her as she received him into his pants to be covered by the shirt she had her left arm in before she was so deliciously interrupted. Alex chuckled, and looked at his lover's new "glow,""You're beautiful Emily," he said, his voice thick with emotion. He reached for her glasses upon the desk as well as a tissue to gently wipe her face and then he wove the hair on her receive. "Go on upstairs and just...Soak? Rest. Go and relax and take the day off. I can manage without you" he reassured her hear, I ...she smiled a "Thank you". Alex But to task to some degree straighten out some release papers to the local library and for Richard. Grimsley had another year before he would be released from the correctional facility that he had been sentenced to. Emily is relieved that maps and rare books fame did not continue. He smiled as he watched Emily start up the case of stairs to their living quarters, the warmth of their love washing over him. He had never thought he would find someone who made him feel this way, who made him want to be a better man. But he had. And he would spend the rest of his life showing her just how much he loved her. And as the customer perused the shelves, Alex couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the bookshop that had brought them together, for the love that had blossomed between them, for the life they had built together. He looked around, his heart swelling with pride and contentment. This was his home, his sanctuary. And he would do everything in his power to protect it, to cherish it, to keep it safe. For Emily. For them. For the love that had bound them together, page by page, chapter by chapter, book by book. And as he rang up the customer's purchase, a rare first edition of a classic love story, he knew that their story was far from over. In fact, it was only just beginning. They would write it their way. It would be well aged and rare and beautiful. Their own book of their own chapters. And Alex was alive to see every morning with her...every shade of grey everywhere...He was home and so was she- If there was one thing known-- it was a binding fact.