4 comments/ 11147 views/ 8 favorites A Love Story: Emily and Snake By: Iread2relax Hey, This is Emily's short romance. She was introduced in A Love Story: Dina and Daniel. Emily is special. The only girl of four brothers, she has always stayed one step ahead of her brothers. She knew so much about them that I wondered what if she has a secret. In this story, her secret will be revealed. All the characters in this story are above the age of consent. Enjoy IR2R Emily Graves was exhausted. It was exhausting being the only daughter of a prominent lawyer dad and a socialite mom. Her brothers did not make the situation any better. She spent most of her time spying on them and making sure they weren't keeping tabs on her. She loved her brothers to death, but they drove her insane. Lately, they kept asking about her friend Oman. He was coming to the city for the weekend, and she was accompanying him to a program at his sister's school. He rarely stayed over but he was this time and her brothers even paid for his hotel room. Her oldest brother, Andrew, was being extremely overly cautious. He'd ask her about her male friends, and the discredited each one. For instance, Brad, a guy from her brother's Daniel's firm, asked her out. All of a sudden, he was being investigated. All of the previous men she dated ended up breaking up with her for one bogus reason or something. Every since Sunnet's wedding, and she befriended Oman, all four of her brothers dropped hints. However, Andrew was the worse. He simply told her he approved of Oman and she could date him. Emily smiled. Next week, her special friend would be back. Her poor clueless brothers had no idea about him, and she planned to keep it that way. Emily ended her work day and headed home. She called Dina, her brother's Daniels wife, to check in. She and all three of her nieces were fine. They talked for while until Mommy duty called. She then called Kim, Peter's wife. They chatted for a few minutes. Finally, she called Cici, Andrew's wife. She asked about her nephews and Cici offered to let her keep them next weekend. Emily laughed and told her she had plans, but she'd keep both boys soon. Soon, Cici had to go and Emily had made it home. Before hanging up, Cici suggested that they have a girl's night. They knew poor Dina needed a break and it would give Daniel time with all three girls. Emily laughed and told her she'd work on it. Soon she was pulling into her driveway. As she pulled into her garage, Mom called. She told her she was fine just tired, but she knew she did not believe her. Emily reassured her Mom and told her she loved her and hang up. Securing her garage door, she went inside. "You're back early." She greeted her guest. He placed a steak and baked potato in front of her place at the dinner table and smiled. Emily looked at him. Terrance Sumner was the one guy no one would think she'd be attracted to. He was huge, standing almost seven feet tall, bald, muscular torso, with a goatee, His round face full of frowns and angry. His body was covered in tattoos. The most prominent tattoos he had were snakes, not just any snakes, but rattlers. He was scary, but he didn't scare her. As a matter of fact, he excited her. "You're almost late." He replied. She placed her bag on the counter and embraced him. Snake smiled. She was adorable. Compared to him, she was so small. She looked up at him; her dark hair shimmered and her eyes twinkled. Her expression delighted that he was back. She was a little over five feet tall, and her body was perfect in his eyes. "Does Andrew know you're back?" She asked. "I have not reported in yet. I needed to see you first." He paused. "Sit, eat. You will need the energy, believe me." Instant heat filled her body. This man drove her mad. One look, one word and she dripped like a faucet. In private, when they were alone, she could be what she truly was a woman with needs, but as soon as he reported in, he became enemy number one. "Well, Terrance, it looks delicious. How did you grill two steaks without going outside?" she asked. Terrance smiled, "Who says I didn't grill them outside?" he queried. Emily's eyes widened, "Someone might have...?" he laughed. She frowned. "Jerk." She mumbled. "It's hurts being your dirty little secret." He replied and Emily gasped. They ate in silence. Soon they finished and Emily helped load the dishwasher. He moved behind her pulling her into him. Emily sighed. She loved being in his arms. He was so big and strong. She looked at his bicep and whispered, "Another tat?" "Yes, just a small one." He spent her around and lifted her onto the counter. "Has anyone seen my mark?" he asked. Emily blushed, "No, and you know why." "Damn right, you're mine. Don't forget it." He teased and then he kissed her. Emily melted into him as he lifted her and carried her into her bedroom. He had drawn her bath. "Don't lift a finger," he whispered as he took his time and removed every stitch of clothing that she wore. Emily knew he could feel the heat emanating from her. She was hot and wet. Terrance laughed and said, "Patience my Emily. Patience." He unbuttoned her blouse, exposing her creamy skin to his hungry view. Terrance groaned and tasted her skin. Kissing her gently, he tasted her skin as his fingers unbuttoned the rest if her clothing. Soon she was a quivering mast in the sexiest pale pink underwear he'd ever seen. "Let me look at you." He whispered as he sat on her small love seat and simply stared at her. Emily was embarrassed but the hunger in his eyes made her bold. She moved forward into his muscular arms. She needed to feel his skin against her and attempted to remove the tight black shirt he wore. He took it off exposing his magnificent chest that was covered with a gorgeous tattoo of a diamond back rattler poised to strike. Emily traced the tat. Caressing his, shoulder blades, pecs, and abdominals. He grabbed her hand to stop her, "No, let me wash you first. He lifted her, carrying her into her bathroom. Emily removed her underwear and Terrence smiled as his mark was exposed to his view. She trimmed but no longer shaved herself completely bald. He requested that she let her hair grow when they started this relationship three years ago. Right above her dark bush, that he carefully stroked, was a small tattoo of a diamond back rattler. It was an exact replica of the one on his body. He recalled giving her the tat a little over two years ago, and then explaining what it meant. They had been seeing each other secretly for a few months. Each night, Emily admired and stroked his body art. When he asked to give her a small tattoo, and she asked for a butterfly, but he needed more. He needed a symbol that let others know she was taken. So he asked her to let him choose this one. She trusted him and nodded. He tattooed her with his symbol, a tiny diamond back rattler. They made love that night for the first time. It was no longer just sex. He had to claim what was his. Emily Graves was his. The next day he was so excited that he wanted to tell her brother, but Andrew said something and he knew they would not approve. Emily would be embarrassed, so he told her to keep quiet. For three years, they stole moments alone, keeping her family completely in the dark. In public, Emily treated him with cold disdain. She was so cold, that her mother once reprimanded her and made her apologize. Snake was just as bad. Whenever she mentioned dating someone, or her brothers mentioned a male showed interest, he would make some type of derogatory remark. This went on so much that at one point, Andrew addressed his friends about his treatment of his younger sister. Snake apologized and resolved to not talk to her in public. Emily gladly did the same, but in private. He always apologized and reminded her of how he truly felt. She was as much his secret as he as hers. He feared her family would not approve, but she didn't need their approval. She needed him. He was an ass. He acted as if he was God's gift to women. A few years ago, he came to dinner at her parents' home and brought a date. Peter was silent as was Brett. They knew the young lady from a local establishment. Kim, Peter's wife, was tickled at her husband's discomfort. Emily was furious because he had the gall to bring a hooker into her parents' home. As far as her family knew, she hated him. They had no idea that three years ago, Terrance came to her house and blew her mind. Initially, he wanted to confront her about some snarky comment she made that embarrassed him. He as even going to apologize for bringing the girl to her parents, but she opened her door wearing the tiniest sleepwear he'd ever seen. He forgot why he as angry and gave in to what he'd been thinking about all night. She didn't fight him. She was as wild and hot as he was. The next night, he snuck back over and they coupled all night. After the first time, he snuck over to her house every time he came home. He was leaving for a job and asked her to make her mark on his skin. He gave her a black permanent marker. Whatever she wrote, he would tattoo onto his skin. Emily faced him and smile. She leaned forward and kissed his pectoral muscle, right above his giant snake. Then she took the marker and wrote a capital E. Snake smiled and got his needle and ink. She watched as he made her mark on his chest. Watching him was fascinating, as she caressed the tattoo he'd given her months earlier. Emily wanted to know if he would tell Andrew, but he stopped. Andrew was his best friend, but today he cracked a joke about taming Emily and Andrew didn't like it. Her family would not accept it. He should have left her alone. "Em, this was a mistake. Look, forget about me. You deserve better." He stood to leave when she stopped him. "Don't go! You gave me your mark and I've marked you. No man can ever take your place. Terrance, you are all I want." she whispered. Terrance "Snake" Sumner fell for the one woman he could never have. Now here he was in her bathroom with her years later. His need for her extended beyond friendship to something much deeper. He was done hiding ad he needed to let her know. Terrance sat on the side of the tub and looked at the beautiful woman standing before him. Cupping her between her thighs, he absorbed her heat. She was already dripping for him, but she was tired and he planned to pamper her. He pulled her to him and kneeled before her; she smelled heavenly and he had to taste her. He licked her pussy causing her to scream for him. She was drenched in her own secretions and he greedily feasted. She came quickly and he placed her in the water. "Terrance, join me." He quickly undressed and climbed inside. Slowly he washed his woman, exploring her body, caressing her between the thighs, exploding her folds. Not to be outdone, Emily became bold and touched every inch of him. He lifted her and she sank not his throbbing cock and rode him slowly. She was amazing and she was his. The water grew cold and he wanted her beneath him. Stopping they left the tub and went to bed. Terrence made love to his woman, his Emily. He licked and caressed her breast, rubbing her slit; Emily opened her legs as wide as she could. The feel of his hands caressing her drove her wild. He flicked her clit causing her to tremble. Emily had to touch him She traced his tats. His body art fascinated her. Emily grasped his cock, stroking him slowly. Terrance groaned. He moved needing to taste her. Kneeling between her thighs, Terrance called to her. "Emily, Look at me." She looked. Terrance smiled, "This is mine. Say it." Emily gasped and she needed more, "Yours" she whispered. He licked her and she groaned. "No, Emily, say Snake, it's yours" he demanded. "Ter Terrance, it's yours." She moaned needing him even more. "No, that's not what I said," He teased, "Call me Snake." "Damn it, Terrance, stop teasing." Emily moaned. "Then say what I want, and I promise you make me feel good baby." He insisted. "Sn Sn Snake, it's yours. Please." Emily stammered. Terrance smiled, and then pleasured her all over with his tongue. She wanted him. She wanted him so badly; she needed him inside of her. Terrance changed positions. He entered his woman. Emily groaned and he froze. She amazed him. She was so hot, so tight, so wet. She began to pump, begging him to love her. He stopped moving until she looked at him. Their eyes locked, and then he smiled and them he began to move. Emily moaned as he filled her. No man was ever going to please her, only Terrance. She only wanted him. Her body quaked as she came the first time. Terrance chuckled; she was so sensitive and so responsive to him. The sounds she made when she peaked were the sweetest. He loved her more. He had to taste her lips so he kissed his lover, the girl that had the ability to destroy him. She opened her mouth taking his tongue. Their tongues dueled in an erotic dance matching the rhythm of their joining. She climaxed a second time. The feel of her pussy clinching his cock pushed him closer to the edge. Finally she begged him to cum inside of her. He closed his eyes and his balls clinched, shooting rope after rope of his life giving fluids inside her womb. Emily came with him, screaming his name. Terrance laughed, and she feigned outrage. He held her as their heartbeats slowed to normal rhythm. They were content. He wished he could stay here, stay with her like this, but tomorrow he had to play the heel and she had to dislike him. Soon it was two am and neither one of them had slept. They'd made love numerous of times. "Are you still taking birth control?" Terrance asked. "Yes, why?" Emily wanted to know, "If I asked you to stop taking them, would you?" he asked. Emily took a breath. "Do you want me to stop taking them?" she asked. "Are you fucking anyone else?" he asked. "No, are you?"She asked, afraid of what he might say. He laughed, "I can't. They are not you. I want a son, Em. I want him with you." A baby, a little boy or girl, "Wait, we can't. What would everyone think?" she asked. Terrance sighed, "You're right. We can't have a little one." He turned and kissed her. "I wish your family wouldn't have a problem with us." Emily opened her mouth to protest when he stopped. "Emily, I need more than this. I'm too old to be a secret anymore. Andrew is sending me on a job. I want you to think and when I comeback, tell me if you want to tell them or if we need to end it." Terrence explained. "Wait, where is this coming from?" Emily asked. He got out of bed, and she felt cold. He started to dress, "Terrence it's three in the morning. You don't have to go."Emily explained. "Andrew has a patrol drive by every morning. He'll patrol again at four. I don't need to be seen leaving, right." He kissed her. "I'll arrive in town in time for breakfast at Andrew's and we'll come by your office to speak. Play along." Emily got out of bed and walked him to his bike that he parked behind her garage out of sight. "Terrence" she whispered. "See you later baby." He kissed her slowly. Emily wanted to hold on to him, but he hopped on his bike and rode off. Emily went back inside and sat. She was about to lose the best thing in her life. She did not want to let him go. Emily lay in bed. She didn't sleep. She rolled over to the side of the bed that Terrance exited and inhaled his scent. She dozed and her alarm sounded at six am. She showered, dressed, and realized she was still tender. Terrance was wild and she loved every minute of it. Then she thought about his ultimatum. Emily took a deep breath. She checked her reflection to make sure her skin was clear. Then she went to her office. Emily was a public relations organizer. She had her own office but it was under the umbrella of her father's law firm. Andrew had his agency. Daniel had his own law firm. Peter was a doctor, and Brett worked for his father. She often kept check on her brothers. Today was no different. She'd go to work and pretend that her world was not about to implode. Snake rode to a coffee shop until a little after seven. Then he headed to his friend's house. Andrew was feeding his two sons, Kevin and Ian when someone knocked. "Babe, can you get that?" Cici called. She was in the bathroom. Andrew wiped his hands and went to the door. "Well I'll be damned..." Andrew swore. "Daddy, bad word." Ian called out "Sorry son, "Andrew chimed. "Come in. Did you just get here?" he asked. "Babe, Snake is here." Snake came in and the boys ran to greet him. He joined the family for breakfast. Andrew told him to park his bike and ride into the office with him. The two left with Andrew dropping the boys off at school. They arrived at the office where everyone greeted Snake. Several girls flirted and Snake played along. Andrew called him to his office and his three brothers showed up. "We have a job for you. A guy at Daniel's office likes Emily. We want you to research him. Also, Oman is visiting this weekend. We like him, but we want to see if you think he is right for Emily. You did pick Cici for me and warned Peter about Bunny. So we trust your instincts." Andrew explained. "Who is Oman?" Snake asked. The four guys blinked. There was something in his tone, but they had to be mistaken. He didn't like Emily. He was always so rude to her and did everything he could to piss her off. "Right, we'll explain. Come on, sit." Andrew offered. "Do you remember the gorgeous brunette that worked with Daniel, Sunnet Dreamfeather?" Andrew started. Snake nodded. Daniel was foolish not to notice that hot chick, but he was married now and his wife, Dina, was perfect for him. Snake met Dina a few weeks after they had married. He knew they had just had twins and was happy for him. There was one dark spot and Andrew called him to take care of it. He was stumped. That was part of the reason he was back. Lionel James was a ghost. The man seemed to have vanished from the planet. Peter started talking. "OK, Oman is a member of Sunnet's tribe. He is the first guy we have ever seen Emily show interest in. When we went to Sunnet's wedding, his grandfather died and Emily was concerned. As far as we know, they still talk." Snake was silent. She never mentioned this man. If she never mentioned him, then what does that mean? Her brother's liked this guy and honestly he could not find any faults. He thought it strange that Andrew had him research this guy now he knew why. They handpicked this guy for Emily. Snake was a bit too quiet. The brother's noticed and Daniel grew concerned. Here they were in the room with the big man. He never removed his shades but Daniel knew something wasn't quite right with his reaction. He shot a quick look at his three brothers. They needed to stop singing accolades for Oman. Finally, Snake stood. "When will he be here?" he asked. Brett chuckled, "His sister goes to school at the university. She's presenting tonight and Oman is coming to support her. He'll stay over this weekend and we all will catch up. If you meet him and see them together, you can tell us if you think he is right for her." He explained. Snake was silent. The brothers moved on to new topics. Daniel did not. He knew his sister. He understood his younger sister better than the other three. Since marrying Dina, she spent more time at their home, and she was different now. He suspected it had something to do with a man. He had a thought, What if Emily and Snake were... he shook away the thoughts. Looking at his watch, he had a case to present. "I need to get back. Guys, let's get together for lunch. Brett is paying. Snake it was nice..." Daniel exited quickly. He was soon followed by Brett and Peter. Andrew finally caught on that his friend was upset. A Love Story: Emily and Snake "Snake, Man. I know Emily annoys you, but if she marries this guy she'll have less time." Andrew tried to explain. Snake cut him off. "She's your sister. It's not my business." Snake went on. "Look I want to tell you about this James guy. Lionel James is a ghost. Nothing, he just disappeared. He's dead, Andrew. From looking into his dealings, he was into some weird shit. I think he went overboard and killed himself. Since no one liked him, they didn't bother to search the forest or drag the lake. He was a piece of work." Andrew nodded. "Has a death certificate been issued?" "Yes, and his assets are frozen. The sheriff stepped up and with Sunnet's help everything is going into a trust for Leona." Snake explained. Andrew nodded. "Thanks man, I'll share this report with Daniel. He can adopt her now. I know he has wanted to since she came into his life." "Is that all?" Snake asked. He needed time to himself. "No, what's going on with you?" Andrew demanded. "Nothing, it's personal." Snake replied. "You don't like our scheme do you?" Andrew asked. "It's not my business." Snake answered. His reply was cold, unfeeling, but Andrew had known this guy for years. They served together and he adopted this tone when he was hiding something. Andrew stopped. He knew. He was not sure how, but his best friend was in love with his sitter. His heart raced. He had to call Cici. Cici was at work. She worked with Emily so he had to get her alone. "Hey, you've just finished this last case. Take the day off. You can go back to the house. Your room is ready." Andrew told him. His heart was racing. If Snake and Emily got together, that would be fucking awesome. The only thing they had to get Emily to notice Snake. She dated girly guys. That was why they liked Oman. He was a guy's guy. Emily called him and checked on him often. She even checked on Isla at the university. Snake stood and thanked his friend. He called a car to go back to Andrew's house. Snake arrived at his friend's home. He went to the bedroom they allowed him to use. He lay down and thought about Emily. She never mentioned this guy. Her silence had to mean something. He needed to talk to her so he headed to her office. Emily was distracted. Terrance was here and she wanted to be with him. Her brothers would not approve though. They wanted her with a suit like them. As she worked on an event they were hired to plan, Mom called. She was coming up. "Emily was working when her Mom and Oman walked in. She rushed to her friend and hugged him. "Welcome, when did you get here?" she asked. "This morning, I stopped by your parents. They said come by anytime. Besides, I called Isla, and she was still sleeping I guess."He replied. "Really, I'm so glad you're here. I wish I didn't have to work so we can hang out." She declared. Cici gasped and Emily looked up, right in the face of her angry lover. He wore an impenetrable mask. He walked into her office area. Bria smiled and he greeted her, spoke to Cici, but his eyes never left Emily completely. He stopped and Emily introduced Oman. Snake extended his hand, then removed his shades. Oman nodded, receiving his message loud and clear. Emily was taken. Oman quickly released his friend. Snake ignored Emily at this point to focus on her Mom. "Ms. Bria, Andrew wanted me to find someone. But I had no luck. You are as beautiful as ever. Old Earl better be careful." Bria laughed and shoved him playfully. "I cannot wait until you meet your match. She will bring you to your knees." Bria joked. Snake laughed, he purposely refused to look at Emily. "Well, Ms. Bria That may have happened already." he teased. Emily's pulse raced. He would not look at her. She needed him to at least look at her. "I just stopped by to say hello to everyone. I'm getting my next assignment soon, so I'll be out of your hair." Emily gasped. He looked at her then. Then his eyes moved to Oman. "Oman," He then looked at Emily and then faced the others, "Ladies, I'm out." He announced. He started leaving. Emily was frozen trying to appear unaffected. Oman moved. "Snake, can I ask you something about your work?" Snake stopped. Oman joined him and they walked out together. As soon as they were away from the office, Oman spoke. "Emily is my friend, that's all. I think her brothers are seeing something that is not there, but she isn't the one for me. I know she belongs to you." Snake faced the dark-haired man, barely breathing, "How do you know this?" he demanded. She told him no one other than him had seen the tattoo. That was his mark. "I am a seer. My grandfather trained me. Emily has been in love with you for years, but she is afraid. She is afraid you don't really want someone like her." Oman exhaled. "She is my friend. I owe her my life. I can see you love her. You hide it, but right now you want to smash my face in because her brothers think she wants me." Oman took a breath, "The only man she wants is you." "They won't approve. I won't make her choose." Snake exhaled. "Tell her I'll see her tonight. She knows where." He climbed on his bike and rode off. Bria was quiet and could not figure out how she missed this. Cici and the other ladies went back to work, Emily pretended to be busy. Bria eyed her daughter. She and Terrance fought like cats and dogs. He would always goad her. But last year they stopped fighting as much. She smiled and followed Emily into her office. Emily was in shock. Terrance was furious and she feared he might leave for good this time. She just had to stay busy. No one knew they were involved. He insisted that they keep their relationship secret. "Emily, how long have you been sleeping with Terrance?" She dropped the book she was holding and faced her mother, mouth opened. "Momma, um, what are you talking about?" Emily feigned innocence. Bria laughed, "Cut the bullshit, Emily. He is furious about Oman. He purposely avoided looking at you and even though you masked it, it hurt. I could see the pain in your eyes. Oman went with him to speak on your behalf." Bria had a seat. "I was in love with your father the first time he walked into my economics class. He was the stiffest man I'd ever seen. He never noticed me until the internship. It hits you like a load of bricks. When did you realize you love him?" she asked. "Momma, there is nothing between Terrance and me. I'm sure you're seeing things that aren't there." She denied her feelings again. She knew Mom didn't believe her, but Terrance asked her to be discreet. Bria nodded, "OK, we can play it your way. Are you going to the university with Oman tonight?" she asked. "Yes, of course. This is a big deal for both of them." Emily answered. "Would you go if Terrance asked you not too?" she asked. Emily hesitated. Bria smiled. "I like him. You two need to talk." Oman returned and Bria smiled. "Oman, I need to go see my husband. Will you go with me?" she asked. Oman smiled and answered of curse. Cici waited and then she walked in to check on Emily. Andrew called and suspected that something was up between Emily and Snake. From the devastated look on her sisters face; she believed her husband might be right. "Hey, Em, you OK?" Cici asked. "I'm fine, just distracted. We have an event, let's get to work." Emily stated. Snake thought about his talk with Oman. He liked the guy. If he wasn't in love with her, then he would like to see her with a guy like Oman. But she was his and one of two things had to happen. He and Emily would tell everyone they were together, or they ended it. His phone rang and he answered. He could hear her breathing. He closed his eyes. "Emily, I need to see you." She answered, "OK, where?" Snake smiled, "What time are you going to lunch?" She answered. He told her, "I'm picking you up." Emily hang up the phone, worried now more than ever. She shook her head. They'd talk and then she'd move on from there. Meanwhile her parents were having a conversation. Earl did not want his baby girl involved with a guy like Terrance. He traveled too much and his job was dangerous. Oman was safe. Even that young man, Brad was safe. Terrance was not a man he could somehow control. He didn't like it. Bria was becoming annoyed again. "Earl Graves, your sons dated all kinds of women. Hell, Brett and Andrew even dated strippers. You never interfered, but Emily. You want to handpick the guy for her, Why? "She's a girl. A man can take advantage of her. That's why I trained the boys...." He stopped realizing he's said a bit too much. Bria was furious at him. "You told her brothers to monitor who she dates. You amaze me. How could you do that? That is so wrong..." Earl kissed his furious wife. She pushed him back, " "It won't work this time Earl Graves. This is my baby's life you're playing with. She is in love with him, and from his reaction he feels the same way about her. He needs your blessing Earl. Give it." She demanded. "Bria, the guy is not necessarily safe. Andrew says he has done all sort of things." Earl argued. "He served with Andrew. They both have done all sorts of things. Do you love your daughter, Earl?" Bria asked. "Baby, of course, that's why..." Earl started to answer when she stopped him. "Accept Terrance. She is in love with him." Bria stated finally. Earl pulled his wife into his arms and held her. She was right. If Emily and Terrance were meant to be then he would accept it. "Love, I'm hungry. Join me for lunch. I know the perfect little café." The two left and Oman joined them. Meanwhile, Andrew called his brothers. He wanted to share his suspicion. So Brett and Peter picked up subs and they met at Daniel's firm. It was lunchtime and Emily was about to go. Cici asked if she wanted to join her, but before she could refuse, Terrance walked in. Cici smiled and said, "Go, enjoy your lunch. Snake waited in the lobby. She walked out, heart pounding, not sure what to expect. Terrance placed his hand on her waist and escorted her to the elevator. Neither spoke. They went to the garage and she gave him the keys to her car, and he drove. They went back to her house. He made quick sandwiches and they ate. Then looked at each other. "Oman? Why have you never mentioned him?" Terrance waited "He's a friend. I met him at Sunnet's wedding and he lost his grandfather. He only has a sister and I tried to comfort him. We became friends. That's all. I like Oman, but I'm in love with..." she stopped. Terrance's heart raced. "I know I said I would go on another case and we could decide when I get back. I need the answer now. Are we coming out to your family or are we through?" he asked. Emily started crying and his heart dropped. She could choose to end it. "I can't lose you Terrance. I love you." He moved; he could not help it. The one woman he'd waited his whole life for was in love with him. Her brothers be damned, she was his. She kissed him and he carried her into the bedroom. She didn't have much time but he was not rushing. Today he claimed his woman. They made love, and as he cried out when his body reached its peak, he held her close. Emily, realizing she had stayed a little too long, gasped and told him she needed to get back to her office. Terrance laughed and asked her to call in. "Emily Graves, are you my girlfriend, now?" he teased. Emily pushed against his huge chest as he laughed and pulled her on top of him. "I love you, Emily. I can't imagine my life without you being in it." She kissed her lover. "I have to get back. I'm late." She declared. Terrance laughed. They dressed quickly and went back to the office where both of her parents were waiting. Terrance was actually nervous, but Emily squeezed his hand. Her father glowered at him and frowned. "Emily, Snake. Come to dinner after the program tonight. Emily, you have an event to prepare for. Snake, tell me what you've been up too." Her Mom hugged her and they took Terrance and left. Emily forced herself to focus, but she could not stop thinking about Terrance. Soon the day ended and she headed home. Before she left, Dina called. Daniel told her his suspicions about Snake. Emily loved all three of her sisters and appreciated their support. Snake left with Earl and Earl told him to meet him at his office. He went straight to his office. As he walked in, Earl smiled, Son, you're whipped. he thought. Earl and Snake talked and Earl went straight to the point. Snake smiled and admitted that he was in love with Emily. They had been seeing each other secretly for three years now. Earl was shocked that they were all so clueless. But he liked this young man. He also realized something else. He was trying to protect Emily by being discreet. He knew Earl had an idea of the type of man he wanted for his daughter, and he definitely did not fit that mold. Earl stood, extended his hand and said, "Son, welcome to the family. Now you have to get her to agree to marry you. Good luck. I had to blackmail her mother." Snake looked shocked and Earl laughed. "I'll share the story one day. Snake left. He rode his bike back to Emily's and found one of her brothers standing in the front of the house. Never one to avoid conflict, he pulled in. "I'm mad as hell. I thought we were friends, almost brothers. How could you sit there and let us tell you about other men and not tell us to fuck off?" Andrew demanded. Snake did not answer. He looked at his friend and answered softly. "I love her and I'm not good enough. She deserves a man that can give her whatever her heart desires. But I'm selfish because I refuse to live without her Andrew. Emily is it for me. If you have a problem with it, I'm sorry." Andrew nodded, "Well do you have a key or what? I want to talk inside." Snake laughed and the two men entered Emily's home. They talked and Snake told his best friend about the secret love affair he had with the only woman he ever wanted. Andrew was happy for his friends, and he told him that his brothers weren't angry. Emily was so nosy and they could not find anything on her. She conducted a secret affair for years and they were clueless. "Can you do us one favor? Tonight, when you and Emily announce that you're together. I'm going to pretend to beat your ass. Emily will jump in and I will blast her ass." Andrew laughed. "Man you have to give me this." Snake laughed. The idea of his woman defending him made him smile a little. "Deal, but if she gets too upset, I'm calling it." Andrew laughed and called Peter. "It's set up." He left and Snake prepared a quick snack for Emily to have when she got home. Ten minutes later, she pulled up. He smiled and his heart raced when she walked in. Emily came home and had to dress to attend Isla's presentation at the university. Terrance didn't mine her going to support her friend, but there was no way another man was taking her. So he dressed in casual slacks and a dress shirt and accompanied her. They arrived at the university auditorium and Oman greeted them immediately. Isla was with her brother and clearly interested in Emily's companion. Snake greeted her and Isla smiled coyly. Emily feeling a tinge of possessiveness cleared her throat. Snake raised an eyebrow at her, hiding his grin. Emily quickly congratulated Isla who was happy for her friend. Oman mentioned that Emily was seeing someone earlier and at first she as concerned about him. But her brother seemed relieved. He admitted he like Emily, but she was really just a good friend. Snake asked Isla about her presentation and she explained in detail what she was working on. He was clearly impressed. Oman stood beside his sister, pride evident in his face. Soon, she had to report to the stage and Oman, Emily, and Snake had a seat. There were three presenters. Isla was the third one. She had the toughest position so she had to captivate the audience. Finally she came up and presented her ideas. Although all of the speakers spoke on specific problems citing various communities in this country, and how the more prominent members of society had a moral obligation to intervene, Isla offered an opposing viewpoint. Suffice it to say, Terrance was impressed. Oman was not; he knew his sister was gifted. Emily felt pride as she applauded for her friend. Terrance watched her and he smiled. Emily was such an amazing and complex person. How could he not love her? The program ended and the crowd left. Oman, Emily, and Terrance waited on Isla. All three congratulated her and told her they were astounded. Isla smiled and thanked them. They rode back to Emily's parents where they were invited to a light dinner. Emily was not surprised to find all of her brothers and their spouses there. She walked in holding Terrance's hand. Her brother's shared a look and Andrew approached Terrance. "You ass, " he hissed. "You took advantage of my baby sister." Terrance smiled, "Um, Andy, she's not a baby and it's not your business." Andrew exploded, advancing on Terrance who refused to back down. Earl intervened when Peter joined in. So far Brett and Daniel stayed out of it. Emily was upset and she screamed "STOP IT! STOP IT! STOP!" Her reaction caused both men to freeze. Terrance rushed to her as he noticed she'd gone chalk white. Andrew realized she was truly upset. He expected her to get angry and call him on his bullshit, not shut down to this extent. "Em, look it was a joke." Andrew explained. "I just wanted to make you mad and then tease you later for defending him." She started crying. Terrance held her. "Baby, it's OK. Come on, he was not serious. It was a joke." She was still crying and Terrance held her close as Cici ripped Andrew a new one. Andrew tried talking to his sister but she held onto Snake. Isla and Oman stayed back. Dina, Kim, and Bria went and extracted Emily from Terrance's arms. Taking her into another room, Bria held her daughter. She didn't understand what was going on with her, or why she reacted this way, but she would help her in any way that she could. "Emily, sweetheart, it's OK. Andrew was being an ass like he usually is." She reassured her daughter. "I love Terrance, Mom. I love my brothers. He always said Andrew wouldn't like it and now..." she sobbed. Bria smiled, Andrew's opinion mattered so much to his little sister. He had to fix this mess on his own. Cici stood furious with Andrew's meddling ways. She went to find him and smack some sense into him. She was a little too late, because Earl had taken both Snake and Andrew to task. Daniel, Peter, and Brett did not escape unscathed. Waiting for her father to finish, Cici grabbed Andrew's ear, and like an errant little boy forced him talk to Emily and apologize. "Hey Sis, it was a joke. I never meant to upset you so much. Hell I wish I knew that big goof caught your eye sooner. I would have pushed you off on him ages ago." He explained. Emily pushed him back. Andre hugged his sister tighter. She was truly upset. She must really care about Snake. He surmised. "You really don't mind?" Emily asked softly. Andrew laughed, "Hell no. I'm so fucking stoked right now. Pete, Daniel, and Brett are too. We were pushing for Oman, but Snake is so much better." Emily shoved her brother. "He's so much cooler than those girly guys you dated. I mean the last one was called what? Oh I remember Frances. Who in the hell would name a boy Frances?" He teased. Emily laughed; hugging her big brother back, she whispered, "Asshole." Andre hugged his kid sister and answered, "Yep, my middle name. Hey Sis, can you talk to Cici? She's really pissed at me and..." Emily laughed, "Nope, you're on your own. Where's Terrance?" She asked as she joined the rest of the group. She flowed right into his arm as a repentant Andrew came out begging his wife for mercy. A Love Story: Emily and Snake Everyone laughed and then they had dinner. Terrance and Emily stayed and visited with her parents after their guest had gone. Earl asked the usual questions already knowing that this young man would move heaven and hell to make her happy. After the young couple left, Earl kissed his wife and Bria whispered, "I love you, you old coot." Earl and Bria were content that their daughter was finally happy. EPILOGUE "Look, Snake I don't get it. You agreed to this. Come on, man. It's bad enough that she's got you whipped but he's a dude." Andrew complained. Snake smiled. "I think you two will look nice walking in together. Besides, this is her only wedding, unless we renew our vows and I'm giving her anything she wants." Andrew was furious when Cici told them they had a guest. Oman walked in and he knew Andrew was pissed. He and Emily had one more trick and it was a good one. Even Terrance was clueless. Oman frowned and told Andrew he wanted to make sure their tuxedoes matched. He refused to be tacky, besides his future bride might be there. Andrew glared at Oman. "You could have said no. What guy agrees to be the Man of Honor at a wedding? Look, talk to Emily, and convince her to let Cici fill in. You can give a toast and hell sing and dance if you want. I am not escorting dude down the aisle." Andrew was adamant. Oman stood his ground, "No, this is her day. The bride always gets what she wants on her special day." Andrew was pissed. Emily always got her way. He argued some more, but his cries fell on deaf ears. Even his wife Cici ignored him now. Soon Oman and Snake left and Andrew had to make sure the bachelor party was set up. Cici told him that none of Snakes former girlfriends could be invited. In other words, there were to be no strippers. So they were shooting pool and swapping war stories. The girls had a bachelorette party planned for Emily. Emily knew her sisters were taking her out. She was overjoyed when Sunnet and Isla joined them. The women played several games and danced into the night. Soon the night ended and the girls went home, making sure Emily was home and tucked in without her fiancé. Snake had to stay with Andrew and Cici until the wedding so he and Emily had not been alone for a week. Being away from her drove him crazy, but soon they would be married. He could wait one more day to see her. The wedding was the next day and he was ready for it. She would finally be his and he'd spend the rest of his life loving her. Sunnet and Jacob came and brought their son. Isla came with her date, a young man from her department at school. Chief Joe could not make it, but he sent his well wishes. Everyone in the den sent a group gift and their best wished to the young couple. The next morning Emily was at the church early. Her mom and her sisters were with her. She was nervous, and excited. Terrance was all she ever dreamed of. Today, they would unite for eternity. Emily was in her dressing room in her gown. Her bridesmaids had moved into position. She smiled when she thought about her brother and his predicament. She wished he could see the relief on his face when his wife replaced her best friend. Then someone knocked. Her Dad walked in and was so handsome. "Daddy, you look amazing." She whispered. "You don't have to marry him you know. I can run him off." Earl teased. "Daddy, I love him. Besides, I'll have to go find him if you did that." She teased. Earl laughed. "I like him Emily. Terrance is a good man. He'll take care of you. But remember this, I'm still your Dad. I will always be there for you, ok. I will always protect you. If you need me call. OK." Then they heard her song. "Come on. I have to do the one thing I've spent twenty-eight years dreading." Earl groused. She entered the door and everyone stood. Emily looked toward the altar and there he stood, her best friend, her lover, her future husband. She giggled as her brother looked relieved. She and Oman agreed that at the last minute, he'd switch sides and let Cici walk down the aisle with Andrew. Oman was still her "Man of Honor." Earl escorted her to her groom but hesitated when it was time to release her. The audience chuckled. When the pastor asked, "Who gives this woman? " Earl stood. He faced Terrance. "Terrance, I give to you today my most precious possession. From the moment she was born I vowed that she would always have the best. She has driven me and all of her brothers insane. I've ran off many losers and they've beat up a lot of losers. We kept her until you came. I have always said that I wanted her to have the best, and son I believe that is what you are. Take care of her, love her; she's your other half." Terrance stood looking dapper in a tailored made tux. He faced his father and smiled. He replied simply with "I love her, Earl. She has always been mine." The minister cleared his throat and conducted the ceremony. Emily cried softly as she recited her vows, and Terrance held her hand. He said his vows loud and clear. Soon they exchanged rings, and just as they were about to be pronounced man and wife, Terrance kissed his bride. The crowd cheered, until the kiss ended. The minister said. "Um son we haven't made it there quite yet. You get to kiss her again." Then he said, "You may kiss the bride. I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Terrance "Snake" Sumner. All of her brothers cheered. Earl held his wife's hand as she wept softly. Terrance's cousin and his family joined into the fray with catcalls and yelling. The crowd went to the dining hall for the reception and the happy couple joined them. Andrew, Daniel, Brett, and Peter pulled the groom outside. They wanted words with their new brother. Snake joined them and the guys presented him with a gift. Andrew gave him a partnership in his agency. He was now CEO of the agency. Snake was stunned. They also had one more request. Emily could not have any girls. She could only have boys. One Emily in the family was enough. Terrance laughed and went to find his bride. He needed to hold her so he pulled her onto the dance floor. Lady Antebellum played as he held her close and kissed his wife for the third time. The crowd erupted and Oman stood to gather everyone's attention. It was time to throw the bouquet. All of the single girls flooded the dance floor. Oman pushed Isla out there. Emily turned her back and threw. The bouquet went straight to Isla. Everyone laughed but she glared at her brother who wore a shit-eating grin. Then it was the guys turn. Snake had to remove the garter Emily wore, but he could not use his hands. He dove under her gown and she was so embarrassed. Finally he came out with the pink and blue garter she had worn was between his teeth. The males avoided the floor, but Brett, Oman and a few guys ended up out there. The garter flew landing right on his brother's Brett head. Andrew hollered and Peter joined in. Bret tried to give the thing away but in the end he hugged his sister and told her she jinxed him. Soon Terrance and Emily left for their hotel room and Oman offered to drive Isla back to school before heading out with Brett. She was ready to go. Brett held the garter and wondered when he would meet someone. His eyes lighted on Isla. She was talking with his sisters as they too were leaving. Earl smiled and joined his younger son for a moment. "You will meet her one day, son. When the time is right, you won't be able to get away." Earl told his son and then he and Bria went home. Daniel and Dina had left earlier. Brett decided to ride with Oman when he drove Isla back to campus. Meanwhile in the honeymoon suite, Emily removed her gown and went into the bathroom with her small pink case. Terrance joined her and took the case. He smiled, "We don't need these anymore." "OK, let's make a baby." Emily whispered, and they did. Nine months later, Emily and Snake welcomed their daughter, Bria Nicole Sumner, much to the delight of all four of her uncle's. THE END Thank you for reading. Please share your thoughts. I hope you enjoyed this short story. It is self-edited. This is my last submission for this summer. I truly hope you enjoyed the tale. IR2R