Page 74 of The Silencer

He kicks off his shoes and carefully climbs onto the bed next to me, pulling me close so that my head rests on his chest.His steady heartbeat and the warmth of his body provide a small bit of comfort.

As I drift in and out of a fitful sleep, I'm vaguely aware of Emmanuel's constant presence.He rubs soothing circles on my back, whispers words of comfort when I whimper in pain, and periodically checks to make sure I'm not getting worse.

Hours pass, and gradually, the pain begins to subside.When I finally open my eyes, the room is dark except for a faint glow from the bedside lamp.Emmanuel is still there, his arms wrapped protectively around me.

"Hey," he says softly when he notices I'm awake."How are you feeling?"

"Better.This happens whenever I have my period," I mumble, my voice hoarse."Thank you for staying with me."

Emmanuel presses a gentle kiss to my forehead."Always, baby.I'm just glad you're feeling better."

As I look up at him, I'm struck by the depth of care and concern in his eyes.It's moments like these that make me realize how much our relationship has grown, how much we've come to rely on each other.

"I love you," I whisper, the words slipping out before I can stop them.It's the first time I’ve said those words out loud.I know I love him.I think I’ve always known.It may have started out as a stupid crush when I was too young to know better, but the truth is, I love him so much it hurts to think about what could happen, given his job.

Emmanuel's eyes widen slightly, a mixture of surprise and joy crossing his face.For a moment, my heart races as I wonder if I've said too much too soon.But then his expression softens into a tender smile.

"I love you too, Clodagh," he says, his voice thick with emotion."So fucking much."

Relief and happiness wash over me as Emmanuel pulls me closer, pressing a gentle kiss to my lips.When we part, he rests his forehead against mine, his eyes locked on mine.

"I've wanted to say it for weeks," he admits softly."But I was afraid it might be too soon.That I might scare you away."

I shake my head slightly, ignoring the lingering ache."You could never scare me away, Emmanuel.Not anymore.I'm in this for the long haul."

His smile widens."Good, because so am I.You're it for me, Clodagh.The only one I want."

I lie in his arms, loving that he feels the exact same as I do.God, I can’t believe how happy I am.How happy he makes me.

"How's your head now?"Emmanuel asks after a while, his fingers gently massaging my scalp.

"Much better," I murmur, leaning into his touch."Still a bit sore, but the worst has passed."

He nods, pressing a kiss to my temple."You should try to get some more rest.I'll be right here if you need anything."

As I drift off to sleep in Emmanuel's arms, I can't believe how far we've come.From the trauma of our past to this moment right here, it's been a long and sometimes difficult journey.But lying here, safe and loved, I know it's been worth every step.

* * *

Opening my eyes, I’m surprised to see sunlight streaming through the curtains.Emmanuel is still beside me, his breathing deep and even in sleep.I take a moment to study his face, relaxed and peaceful in a way I rarely see when he's awake.

Carefully, I slip out of bed, relieved to find my headache has mostly subsided.I make my way to the kitchen, deciding to surprise Emmanuel with breakfast in bed.

As I'm scrambling eggs, I hear footsteps behind me.Strong arms wrap around my waist, and Emmanuel presses a kiss to the back of my neck.

"Morning, love," he murmurs, his voice still husky with sleep."How are you feeling?"

I lean back into his embrace, smiling."Much better.I was going to surprise you with breakfast in bed."

Emmanuel chuckles, the sound rumbling through his chest."Well, don't let me stop you.Though I'd rather have you for breakfast."

I playfully swat his arm but can't help the shiver that runs through me at his words."Behave," I tease."Food first," I insist, turning in his arms to face him."Then maybe we can discuss...dessert."

Emmanuel's eyes darken with desire, but he nods, pressing a quick kiss to my lips before releasing me."Alright, I'll set the table while you finish cooking."

As we sit down to eat, Emmanuel reaches across the table to take my hand."I've been thinking," he starts, his thumb tracing circles on my palm."Maybe it's time we told people about us.Lisa, your friends...my family.I’m pretty sure Jer already knows.The bastard always knows everything."

I pause, a forkful of eggs halfway to my mouth."Are you sure?I mean, I want to, but..."

---