FIC POST
I am kinda scared to death to post this......this is the farthest I've gone out on my Criminal Minds fanfiction limb. But you know what, to hell with it, here goes. This is a stand alone fic, but this one The Lover http://community.livejournal.com/hotch_prentiss/117685.html introduces the character you are about to read about and this one, The Hidden Storm, http://community.livejournal.com/hotch_prentiss/15603.html discussses in more detail some of Emily's past eluded to in the new story. You can check them out if you would like. Both are Hotch/Prentiss.....a warning if that's not your cup of tea.
Title: Enamored
Author: Montiese
Category: Pre-BAU/Romance
Pairing: Emily Prentiss/OMC
Rating: TEEN
Summary: “This is Lady Emily Prentiss of the Prentisses of Moldavia.”
Author’s Note: This story has been in my mind since seeing Pleasure is My Business. It deals with Emily’s past, long before she was in the BAU. When I think of Gabriel Cohen, I see Victor Garber and that is because elekanahmen is made of win. This is for the muse, who tolerates me. I might keep going with this universe…young adult Emily fascinates me.
The thunderous applause was always her favorite part. The sound of the ebb and swell, the excitement coursing through the veins of everyone in the concert hall; it was practically orgasmic. When it finally died down, Emily Prentiss and Melinda McNamara made their way backstage. There was the usual gaggle of press, publicists, and hangers on. A few men made friendly gestures toward Emily but she brushed them off. Melinda knocked on the dressing room door.
“Come,” said the voice inside.
The two women walked in and Gabriel smiled.
“Hello there.”
“You were magnificent, Gabe,” Melinda said. “Absolutely beautiful; I loved it.”
“Thank you. Emily…”
“It was beautiful. You know how I feel about your music.”
“I do,” he got up from his chair. “But I love to hear it from your lips. Artists are whores; the compliments are our life blood.”
Smiling, Melinda knew her cue.
“I will see you at Trevor’s.” she said. “He is expecting you.”
“I promised I would be there and I will be.”
She nodded, excusing herself. Gabriel looked at Emily and smiled.
“You look amazing.”
“This old thing?” she smoothed out the dress. It was a black, strapless Halston that brushed her knees. She stole it from her stepmother. Emily also wore sheer black stockings and black high heels.
“Damn, you are beautiful.”
“Come over here and say that.” She said.
Gabriel Cohen slipped his arms around her, tenderly stroking her cheek. Emily ran her hands up the nape of his neck and through his hair.
“You're breathtaking, Emily Prentiss.”
She kissed him, moaning softly as his tongue brushed against hers. Gabriel pulled her closer.
“What’s happening at Trevor’s?” she asked as they pulled apart.
“Just the usual gasbagging and glad-handing. I’m sorry Emily; I wanted to spend tonight with you.”
“So I'm not allowed at Trevor’s?”
“That’s not what I meant. I just meant…I don’t want my attention taken away from you.”
“We have time. You go to to Trevor’s, smile, be cordial, and enjoy all the praise surely to be heaped upon you. Then I want you all to myself, Mr. Cohen.”
“I like the sound of that. Stay; we’ll ride over together.”
“I will.” Emily kissed him again and left the room.
***
Trevor Bainbridge was wealthy, which translated to never having worked a day in his life. He was a lover of art, literature, scotch, and the company of attractive young men. His family had been in the steel business for almost 250 years. Gregory Prentiss told his daughter that the Bainbridges were nothing but robber barons, vote fixers, and thieves. It didn’t seem to matter…money legitimized itself after a century in circulation.
Trevor and Gabriel had been best friends since their days at Julliard where Trevor played the piano. Emily found him fascinating. Surely not someone she thought she would ever be friends with but an interesting character study. He stopped dead in the middle of his story of being one of the many lovers of Nathan Finelli, the famous violinist, and pointed at her.
“Emily Prentiss!” he exclaimed.
The crowd he held captive turned to look at her.
“Yes?” she answered.
“You wouldn’t happen to be one of the Philadelphia Prentisses would you? Very influential family, Julia and Barrington with a lovely son named Gregory. His ex-wife Elizabeth is Ambassador to Belarus or something. Are you one of them?”
“I have absolutely no idea what you're talking about.” Emily replied with a smile. She sipped her screwdriver.
“You favor Elizabeth,” he said. “She is a beautiful raven haired woman just like you.”
“I'm intrigued. Perhaps she had an illicit affair and I am her illegitimate child.”
“If that were so,” one of the guests replied. “I would like her so much more than I do right now.”
The room erupted in laughter. Trevor called her over with his hand.
“Come sit by me…I like your style.”
Emily smiled again, joining him. It was the perfect place to observe; from the throne of the boy prince. The boy prince was 50 if he was a day but surely if there was a truthful birth certificate for Trevor Bainbridge, he was the only one who owned it. He held court in the large kitchen for a while longer before making his way, with Emily Prentiss by his side, into the library. There were about 50 people in the Upper East Side condo but it was just another night at Trevor’s.
“I know who you are,” he whispered in her ear as they stopped to chat with guests. “Your secret is safe with me.”
“You need not keep secrets on my behalf, Mr. Bainbridge.”
“Well then I will do it for Gabriel. I love that man more than life itself and I can hardly explain why. He’s never even slept with me and believe me, back in the day I used to try. He is surely my best friend in the world. This world is so nasty…he keeps me sane. Now it appears he has found someone to keep him sane.”
Emily smiled, giving a little nod. She didn’t know Trevor well, certainly would not give him any indication of her relationship with Gabriel. If the two men were friends then they could have that conversation with each other. There was a lively debate in the library about early 20th century literature that Emily wanted to be a part of. Trevor let her fly on her own but kept a watchful eye over his baby bird.
“You need a cigarette.”
She turned when she heard the voice. Emily accepted the cigarette with a nod.
“Thank you.” She inhaled the sweet poison.
“Are you enjoying yourself?” he asked.
“I am, though I seem to have lost my companion.”
“Who would ever you alone?”
“I'm with Gabriel Cohen.”
“The cellist?”
“Mmm,” she nodded. “These are Russian.”
“Ziganov Vanilla…how did you know that?”
“I've had them before.”
“Gabriel Cohen does not smoke.” The man replied.
“No he doesn’t.”
“What is your name?”
“What's yours?” Emily countered.
“Edward Lowell. It is a pleasure to meet you.”
“Emily,” she shook his extended hand.
“No last name?”
“I would rather not.”
“Ah, I see.”
“I don’t know if you do, Mr. Lowell.” She said.
“I do, and you can call me Ted. From time to time I enjoy the company of beautiful, smart women. I don’t usually pull out my checkbook but for you, Emily with no last name, I would gladly make an exception.”
“Mr. Lowell…” Emily clenched her jaw.
“Ted, are you offending my guests?” Trevor approached the two of them, putting his arm around Emily’s shoulder.
“Certainly not. I didn’t intend to.”
“Have you two been formally introduced? This is Lady Emily Prentiss of the Prentisses of Moldavia. She is a very good friend of mine, and of Gabriel Cohen.”
“Yes, yes, that’s what she said. I um…”
Gabriel came into the library.
“Emily, I was looking for you.” He said.
“I was kidnapped.” She replied, holding out her hand for him.
“I've come to your rescue.”
“Excellent news.”
Ted tried to walk away but Gabriel stopped him.
“How are you, Ted?”
“Fine. Please excuse me; Lady Prentiss it was wonderful to meet you.”
Emily didn't say a word as he walked away. Gabriel raised an eyebrow.
“Is there something you want to tell me, Lady Prentiss?” he asked.
“Trevor just saved me from that creep. I am ready to go now.”
“I hope his behavior doesn’t stop you from visiting again.” Trevor said. “You're a lovely addition to any party.”
“Thank you, Mr. Bainbridge. I had a lovely evening.”
Trevor kissed both of their cheeks. They made their way to the door, Gabriel stopping to shake hands and kiss a few cheeks. The butler retrieved their coats from the closet. Gabriel helped Emily into her; she put her hood up as they left the condo and went to the elevator.
“What did Ted do?” Gabriel asked.
“Hmm?” Emily pushed L and the elevator doors closed.
“What did Ted do?”
“Don’t worry about it, Gabriel.” She took his hand in his, sliding their fingers together.
“He’s a Lothario, though any man with eyes would probably hit on you. I've been mentally preparing myself to deal with that for months now.”
“How is it going?”
“A man is constantly a work in progress, Emily.”
She laughed softly, leaning to kiss his lips as the door opened. They walked through the lobby, looking at all the people looking at her. They probably thought the same thing as Edward Lowell. They could all go to hell. The early December night was cold but the doorman got them a cab immediately. Gabriel gave his Central Park West address as they settled into the backseat. Putting his arm around Emily, she snuggled close.
“You were so amazing tonight,” she said. “How does it feel to hear all those people applaud for you?”
“I really don’t hear it anymore. Most people don’t believe me but it’s true. I just hear the music in my head, the chords and beats. I am going back into the studio in January to work on a new album.”
“Really?”
“Mmm hmm. Stephanie Patrick is going to write two new songs for me, accompanying on piano. I love the idea of experimenting with a more modern sound on the cello. It is an incredibly beautiful instrument. Most likely I will fall flat on my face but I have been a success for more than half my life. Its worth falling on my face for something that gives me joy. A little like you and I.”
“You and I?” Emily looked at him. “What do you mean?”
“The limb I climbed out on when I traveled to New Haven was quite small. I should have fallen and cracked my skull.”
“You were irresistible.” She grinned.
“Surely you jest.” Gabriel laughed.
“I do no such thing.” Emily replied, kissing him softly.
“Emily?” he whispered.
“Hmm?”
“It’s a little late to take the train back to New Haven. I can have the cab driver drop you at your parents’ condo.”
“No,” she shook her head, kissing him again.
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, Gabriel.”
He didn’t say another word about it, wrapping his arms tighter around her. She was old enough to make her own decisions and it sounded as if she just had. Nothing would happen without her say so; her explicit consent. Gabriel thought he might be more nervous than Emily. When the cab pulled up in front of his building, he paid and they went inside. Gabriel was friendly with the staff as he and Emily walked hand and hand to the elevator. They were quiet on the way up, waiting until they were locked inside his condo to kiss again.
“Do you mind if I take a shower?” she asked.
Gabriel helped her out of her coat, and took her into his arms.
“I don’t mind at all. There is one thing though.”
“Hmm?”
Emily’s fingers played through his hair. Gabriel practically purred; when she touched him he was always on fire.
“You know how you always slap my hands when I pull out my credit cards?” he asked.
“Yes.” She nodded.
“There will be some hand slapping after you see the bedroom.”
“Gabriel…what did you do?”
“I didn’t want to assume. I didn’t want to be premature in thinking you would spend the night with me.”
“Tell me what you did.”
“I just bought you a few things so you wouldn’t have to run between here and your parents’ place when you are in the city. Just some intimates, night clothes, slacks, jeans, sweaters…”
“Stop,” Emily put her hand on his chest. “You went on a shopping spree?”
“Spree is not the word I would choose.”
“I bet. That’s why I am going to let this slide.”
“Seriously?” Gabriel pulled her closer. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”
“Because you are so damn cute.” Emily laughed, pinching his nose. “You mean well and I do not believe you are trying to buy my affections.”
“Absolutely not.” He shook his head.
“So I will just go, look, and determine how many times, if any, your hands should be slapped.”
“You have to be careful with them. They are essential to my livelihood.”
“Mine as well.” Emily replied.
“Emily Prentiss,” he smiled, kissing her nose.
“Unzip me please.” She turned in his arms.
Gabriel did as she asked, kissing the nape of her neck. His hand slid across the bare skin of her back.
“I have a few phone calls I need to make.” Gabriel said, kissing her neck again. “You go and take a hot shower and I will join you in a little while. Would you like a cup of tea?”
“No,” Emily turned, holding the dress to her thin frame. “Take your time.”
“Yes ma'am.”
They kissed once more before she made her way to the bedroom. She left the dress fall, stepping out of it, and laying it across the chair. Emily had never been in Gabriel’s bedroom before. In a black strapless bra and panties in a pair of high heels, she went over to the dresser and opened the top drawer. It was full of silk and satin…nightgowns, pajamas, bras, and panties.
She smiled and then went to the closet. It was neat as a pin, all of the condo was, but there was a section carved out for her. He bought some jeans, some slacks, blouses, and sweaters. There were even four pairs of shoes on the closet floor. Everything was perfectly sized…she wouldn’t even guess how he did that. Emily slipped out of her high heels and walked to the bathroom.
In the vanity area, she saw Gabriel bought more things for her. Toothbrushes, powders, lotions, face creams, and hair accessories. There was a bottle of Love’s Baby Soft, which was one of Emily’s favorite scents. She liked the light, powdery smell and Gabriel always complimented her. He had gone too far but she wasn’t going to be angry with him. He was a magnificent man, so good to her, and she liked him more than she ever imagined she could.
Emily turned on the shower, taking a deep breath and dipping her head under the jet streams. The water was hot and it felt good. While she wanted to get the gel and hairspray out before bed, she was mostly in the shower to think and buy herself some time. Grabbing the shampoo, Emily thought of her high school boyfriend, Paul Mitchell. They met last October in the Garfield High School Library. During study hall she was reading Othello; Paul sat down beside her and asked if he could buy her a cup of coffee.
There was such a sincerity about him…Emily tried and failed to resist. He was handsome, with jet black hair and big blue eyes. Paul was smart and sweet, with a passion for conversation and a moped. His father was Counsel for the Speaker’s office so he loathed politics as much as Emily. It was the first time she was enraptured by any man other than her father. No wonder he was so perplexed that she always froze like a Popsicle when he touched her intimately.
Kissing was alright. Emily couldn’t explain it but she was comfortable with that. Anything more was too much. Paul tried to ask about her fears, he was perceptive, but she never opened up. By April, he couldn’t take it anymore. He loved her, he told her so, but his touch being unbearable was hard to handle. Emily didn’t even try to hold onto him…she didn’t know how.
Five months after the breakup she met Gabriel. She never felt uncomfortable when he touched her. He touched her shoulders, arms, back, and stomach in intimate ways and she never cringed. What made Gabriel different from Paul? Maybe it was because he was a man; not nervous or unsure about his romantic intents. Of course, Lawrence Clayton had been a man too. The thought of him made Emily’s stomach turn. She gripped the shower wall until the wave of nausea passed. It was time to get out of the shower…time to face the music.
Emily dried quickly, wrapping in a fluffy terry cloth towel. She walked back in the bedroom and saw she was still alone. In about 90 seconds, she dropped her towel and put on a pair of pajamas from the top drawer. She was sitting on the edge of the bed drying her hair when Gabriel came into the room.
“Am I in trouble?” he asked.
“I think I will let you off with a warning this time.” Emily replied. “Are you trying to tell me something though?”
“What do you mean?”
“There is nothing black in there.”
“Change is good. While you are certainly beautiful in black, no one would argue about your being pretty in pink as well.”
Emily wore a pair of cotton candy pink satin pajama pants and a hot pink cotton tank top.
“Thank you.” She smiled and a silence filled the room. She started brushing her chin length hair.
“Is it alright to admit I am a bit nervous right now?” Gabriel asked.
“C'mere,” she called him over to the bed with her hand. When he sat beside her, Emily took his face in her hands. “Nothing will happen tonight that you're uncomfortable with. Promise.”
They both laughed and Gabriel kissed her. He nodded, going into the bathroom. When he returned dressed for bed, Emily was under the covers and reading Time Magazine.
“I didn’t know my mother had been interviewed.” She said.
“What is she discussing?”
“Democracy spreading through Eastern Europe.” Emily looked at him as he got into bed. She wondered if he could hear her heart thumping. She didn’t feel as nervous as before but clearly she was. “I wonder if she will be obsolete after the change.”
“Elizabeth Prentiss, obsolete…I don’t think so. She will adapt as everyone will I'm sure. Plenty of politicians won't know who to go after if there aren’t anymore Commie Bastards.” Gabriel turned off his lamp and settled on the mattress. “I loathe politics.”
“Me too,” Emily plunged them into darkness, making her way into his arms. She sighed when he rubbed her back.
“What happened with Ted Lowell tonight?”
“Gabe…stop it.”
“I will kick his ass if you want me to.”
“You will do nothing of the sort.” Emily laughed. “Your hands are precious, remember?”
“They’re holding something precious. They love to touch something precious.”
“I loved to be touched. I just…”
“You never have to explain to me. Touching is definitely not contingent upon you spending the night. Holding you is quite pleasurable.”
“Surely not as much.”
“You're wrong.” Gabriel replied. “You are allowed to touch me as well though. It’s important that we put that out there…reference and all.”
“Hmm. So what about…”
Emily starting tickling him and Gabriel shouted. He tried to move away but she straddled him, pinning him down and going for broke. She was light as a feather but her steel grip surprised him.
“Oh God, oh God, I am going to piss myself! Emily!”
She burst into laughter, stopping the torture. Gabriel rolled them on the mattress. He was on top of her but did not attempt to pin her down. That was not his style with women and something told him it would be a very bad idea, even in play. He sensed things about Emily. Age was not the only reason she was unnerved about intimacy. Someday maybe she would trust him enough to tell him anything. Until then he would follow her cues.
“Beautiful but evil,” his lips kissed her neck. “Yet I'm completely enamored.”
“Mmm, Gabe.” She slipped her arms around his neck and held him close.
She didn’t know how far they would go; right now it felt so good. Instead of worrying about the future, the next twenty minutes or the next five, Emily would live in the moment. She knew if she told him to stop that he would. She was safe with him and enamored as well.
***
Title: Enamored
Author: Montiese
Category: Pre-BAU/Romance
Pairing: Emily Prentiss/OMC
Rating: TEEN
Summary: “This is Lady Emily Prentiss of the Prentisses of Moldavia.”
Author’s Note: This story has been in my mind since seeing Pleasure is My Business. It deals with Emily’s past, long before she was in the BAU. When I think of Gabriel Cohen, I see Victor Garber and that is because elekanahmen is made of win. This is for the muse, who tolerates me. I might keep going with this universe…young adult Emily fascinates me.
The thunderous applause was always her favorite part. The sound of the ebb and swell, the excitement coursing through the veins of everyone in the concert hall; it was practically orgasmic. When it finally died down, Emily Prentiss and Melinda McNamara made their way backstage. There was the usual gaggle of press, publicists, and hangers on. A few men made friendly gestures toward Emily but she brushed them off. Melinda knocked on the dressing room door.
“Come,” said the voice inside.
The two women walked in and Gabriel smiled.
“Hello there.”
“You were magnificent, Gabe,” Melinda said. “Absolutely beautiful; I loved it.”
“Thank you. Emily…”
“It was beautiful. You know how I feel about your music.”
“I do,” he got up from his chair. “But I love to hear it from your lips. Artists are whores; the compliments are our life blood.”
Smiling, Melinda knew her cue.
“I will see you at Trevor’s.” she said. “He is expecting you.”
“I promised I would be there and I will be.”
She nodded, excusing herself. Gabriel looked at Emily and smiled.
“You look amazing.”
“This old thing?” she smoothed out the dress. It was a black, strapless Halston that brushed her knees. She stole it from her stepmother. Emily also wore sheer black stockings and black high heels.
“Damn, you are beautiful.”
“Come over here and say that.” She said.
Gabriel Cohen slipped his arms around her, tenderly stroking her cheek. Emily ran her hands up the nape of his neck and through his hair.
“You're breathtaking, Emily Prentiss.”
She kissed him, moaning softly as his tongue brushed against hers. Gabriel pulled her closer.
“What’s happening at Trevor’s?” she asked as they pulled apart.
“Just the usual gasbagging and glad-handing. I’m sorry Emily; I wanted to spend tonight with you.”
“So I'm not allowed at Trevor’s?”
“That’s not what I meant. I just meant…I don’t want my attention taken away from you.”
“We have time. You go to to Trevor’s, smile, be cordial, and enjoy all the praise surely to be heaped upon you. Then I want you all to myself, Mr. Cohen.”
“I like the sound of that. Stay; we’ll ride over together.”
“I will.” Emily kissed him again and left the room.
***
Trevor Bainbridge was wealthy, which translated to never having worked a day in his life. He was a lover of art, literature, scotch, and the company of attractive young men. His family had been in the steel business for almost 250 years. Gregory Prentiss told his daughter that the Bainbridges were nothing but robber barons, vote fixers, and thieves. It didn’t seem to matter…money legitimized itself after a century in circulation.
Trevor and Gabriel had been best friends since their days at Julliard where Trevor played the piano. Emily found him fascinating. Surely not someone she thought she would ever be friends with but an interesting character study. He stopped dead in the middle of his story of being one of the many lovers of Nathan Finelli, the famous violinist, and pointed at her.
“Emily Prentiss!” he exclaimed.
The crowd he held captive turned to look at her.
“Yes?” she answered.
“You wouldn’t happen to be one of the Philadelphia Prentisses would you? Very influential family, Julia and Barrington with a lovely son named Gregory. His ex-wife Elizabeth is Ambassador to Belarus or something. Are you one of them?”
“I have absolutely no idea what you're talking about.” Emily replied with a smile. She sipped her screwdriver.
“You favor Elizabeth,” he said. “She is a beautiful raven haired woman just like you.”
“I'm intrigued. Perhaps she had an illicit affair and I am her illegitimate child.”
“If that were so,” one of the guests replied. “I would like her so much more than I do right now.”
The room erupted in laughter. Trevor called her over with his hand.
“Come sit by me…I like your style.”
Emily smiled again, joining him. It was the perfect place to observe; from the throne of the boy prince. The boy prince was 50 if he was a day but surely if there was a truthful birth certificate for Trevor Bainbridge, he was the only one who owned it. He held court in the large kitchen for a while longer before making his way, with Emily Prentiss by his side, into the library. There were about 50 people in the Upper East Side condo but it was just another night at Trevor’s.
“I know who you are,” he whispered in her ear as they stopped to chat with guests. “Your secret is safe with me.”
“You need not keep secrets on my behalf, Mr. Bainbridge.”
“Well then I will do it for Gabriel. I love that man more than life itself and I can hardly explain why. He’s never even slept with me and believe me, back in the day I used to try. He is surely my best friend in the world. This world is so nasty…he keeps me sane. Now it appears he has found someone to keep him sane.”
Emily smiled, giving a little nod. She didn’t know Trevor well, certainly would not give him any indication of her relationship with Gabriel. If the two men were friends then they could have that conversation with each other. There was a lively debate in the library about early 20th century literature that Emily wanted to be a part of. Trevor let her fly on her own but kept a watchful eye over his baby bird.
“You need a cigarette.”
She turned when she heard the voice. Emily accepted the cigarette with a nod.
“Thank you.” She inhaled the sweet poison.
“Are you enjoying yourself?” he asked.
“I am, though I seem to have lost my companion.”
“Who would ever you alone?”
“I'm with Gabriel Cohen.”
“The cellist?”
“Mmm,” she nodded. “These are Russian.”
“Ziganov Vanilla…how did you know that?”
“I've had them before.”
“Gabriel Cohen does not smoke.” The man replied.
“No he doesn’t.”
“What is your name?”
“What's yours?” Emily countered.
“Edward Lowell. It is a pleasure to meet you.”
“Emily,” she shook his extended hand.
“No last name?”
“I would rather not.”
“Ah, I see.”
“I don’t know if you do, Mr. Lowell.” She said.
“I do, and you can call me Ted. From time to time I enjoy the company of beautiful, smart women. I don’t usually pull out my checkbook but for you, Emily with no last name, I would gladly make an exception.”
“Mr. Lowell…” Emily clenched her jaw.
“Ted, are you offending my guests?” Trevor approached the two of them, putting his arm around Emily’s shoulder.
“Certainly not. I didn’t intend to.”
“Have you two been formally introduced? This is Lady Emily Prentiss of the Prentisses of Moldavia. She is a very good friend of mine, and of Gabriel Cohen.”
“Yes, yes, that’s what she said. I um…”
Gabriel came into the library.
“Emily, I was looking for you.” He said.
“I was kidnapped.” She replied, holding out her hand for him.
“I've come to your rescue.”
“Excellent news.”
Ted tried to walk away but Gabriel stopped him.
“How are you, Ted?”
“Fine. Please excuse me; Lady Prentiss it was wonderful to meet you.”
Emily didn't say a word as he walked away. Gabriel raised an eyebrow.
“Is there something you want to tell me, Lady Prentiss?” he asked.
“Trevor just saved me from that creep. I am ready to go now.”
“I hope his behavior doesn’t stop you from visiting again.” Trevor said. “You're a lovely addition to any party.”
“Thank you, Mr. Bainbridge. I had a lovely evening.”
Trevor kissed both of their cheeks. They made their way to the door, Gabriel stopping to shake hands and kiss a few cheeks. The butler retrieved their coats from the closet. Gabriel helped Emily into her; she put her hood up as they left the condo and went to the elevator.
“What did Ted do?” Gabriel asked.
“Hmm?” Emily pushed L and the elevator doors closed.
“What did Ted do?”
“Don’t worry about it, Gabriel.” She took his hand in his, sliding their fingers together.
“He’s a Lothario, though any man with eyes would probably hit on you. I've been mentally preparing myself to deal with that for months now.”
“How is it going?”
“A man is constantly a work in progress, Emily.”
She laughed softly, leaning to kiss his lips as the door opened. They walked through the lobby, looking at all the people looking at her. They probably thought the same thing as Edward Lowell. They could all go to hell. The early December night was cold but the doorman got them a cab immediately. Gabriel gave his Central Park West address as they settled into the backseat. Putting his arm around Emily, she snuggled close.
“You were so amazing tonight,” she said. “How does it feel to hear all those people applaud for you?”
“I really don’t hear it anymore. Most people don’t believe me but it’s true. I just hear the music in my head, the chords and beats. I am going back into the studio in January to work on a new album.”
“Really?”
“Mmm hmm. Stephanie Patrick is going to write two new songs for me, accompanying on piano. I love the idea of experimenting with a more modern sound on the cello. It is an incredibly beautiful instrument. Most likely I will fall flat on my face but I have been a success for more than half my life. Its worth falling on my face for something that gives me joy. A little like you and I.”
“You and I?” Emily looked at him. “What do you mean?”
“The limb I climbed out on when I traveled to New Haven was quite small. I should have fallen and cracked my skull.”
“You were irresistible.” She grinned.
“Surely you jest.” Gabriel laughed.
“I do no such thing.” Emily replied, kissing him softly.
“Emily?” he whispered.
“Hmm?”
“It’s a little late to take the train back to New Haven. I can have the cab driver drop you at your parents’ condo.”
“No,” she shook her head, kissing him again.
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, Gabriel.”
He didn’t say another word about it, wrapping his arms tighter around her. She was old enough to make her own decisions and it sounded as if she just had. Nothing would happen without her say so; her explicit consent. Gabriel thought he might be more nervous than Emily. When the cab pulled up in front of his building, he paid and they went inside. Gabriel was friendly with the staff as he and Emily walked hand and hand to the elevator. They were quiet on the way up, waiting until they were locked inside his condo to kiss again.
“Do you mind if I take a shower?” she asked.
Gabriel helped her out of her coat, and took her into his arms.
“I don’t mind at all. There is one thing though.”
“Hmm?”
Emily’s fingers played through his hair. Gabriel practically purred; when she touched him he was always on fire.
“You know how you always slap my hands when I pull out my credit cards?” he asked.
“Yes.” She nodded.
“There will be some hand slapping after you see the bedroom.”
“Gabriel…what did you do?”
“I didn’t want to assume. I didn’t want to be premature in thinking you would spend the night with me.”
“Tell me what you did.”
“I just bought you a few things so you wouldn’t have to run between here and your parents’ place when you are in the city. Just some intimates, night clothes, slacks, jeans, sweaters…”
“Stop,” Emily put her hand on his chest. “You went on a shopping spree?”
“Spree is not the word I would choose.”
“I bet. That’s why I am going to let this slide.”
“Seriously?” Gabriel pulled her closer. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”
“Because you are so damn cute.” Emily laughed, pinching his nose. “You mean well and I do not believe you are trying to buy my affections.”
“Absolutely not.” He shook his head.
“So I will just go, look, and determine how many times, if any, your hands should be slapped.”
“You have to be careful with them. They are essential to my livelihood.”
“Mine as well.” Emily replied.
“Emily Prentiss,” he smiled, kissing her nose.
“Unzip me please.” She turned in his arms.
Gabriel did as she asked, kissing the nape of her neck. His hand slid across the bare skin of her back.
“I have a few phone calls I need to make.” Gabriel said, kissing her neck again. “You go and take a hot shower and I will join you in a little while. Would you like a cup of tea?”
“No,” Emily turned, holding the dress to her thin frame. “Take your time.”
“Yes ma'am.”
They kissed once more before she made her way to the bedroom. She left the dress fall, stepping out of it, and laying it across the chair. Emily had never been in Gabriel’s bedroom before. In a black strapless bra and panties in a pair of high heels, she went over to the dresser and opened the top drawer. It was full of silk and satin…nightgowns, pajamas, bras, and panties.
She smiled and then went to the closet. It was neat as a pin, all of the condo was, but there was a section carved out for her. He bought some jeans, some slacks, blouses, and sweaters. There were even four pairs of shoes on the closet floor. Everything was perfectly sized…she wouldn’t even guess how he did that. Emily slipped out of her high heels and walked to the bathroom.
In the vanity area, she saw Gabriel bought more things for her. Toothbrushes, powders, lotions, face creams, and hair accessories. There was a bottle of Love’s Baby Soft, which was one of Emily’s favorite scents. She liked the light, powdery smell and Gabriel always complimented her. He had gone too far but she wasn’t going to be angry with him. He was a magnificent man, so good to her, and she liked him more than she ever imagined she could.
Emily turned on the shower, taking a deep breath and dipping her head under the jet streams. The water was hot and it felt good. While she wanted to get the gel and hairspray out before bed, she was mostly in the shower to think and buy herself some time. Grabbing the shampoo, Emily thought of her high school boyfriend, Paul Mitchell. They met last October in the Garfield High School Library. During study hall she was reading Othello; Paul sat down beside her and asked if he could buy her a cup of coffee.
There was such a sincerity about him…Emily tried and failed to resist. He was handsome, with jet black hair and big blue eyes. Paul was smart and sweet, with a passion for conversation and a moped. His father was Counsel for the Speaker’s office so he loathed politics as much as Emily. It was the first time she was enraptured by any man other than her father. No wonder he was so perplexed that she always froze like a Popsicle when he touched her intimately.
Kissing was alright. Emily couldn’t explain it but she was comfortable with that. Anything more was too much. Paul tried to ask about her fears, he was perceptive, but she never opened up. By April, he couldn’t take it anymore. He loved her, he told her so, but his touch being unbearable was hard to handle. Emily didn’t even try to hold onto him…she didn’t know how.
Five months after the breakup she met Gabriel. She never felt uncomfortable when he touched her. He touched her shoulders, arms, back, and stomach in intimate ways and she never cringed. What made Gabriel different from Paul? Maybe it was because he was a man; not nervous or unsure about his romantic intents. Of course, Lawrence Clayton had been a man too. The thought of him made Emily’s stomach turn. She gripped the shower wall until the wave of nausea passed. It was time to get out of the shower…time to face the music.
Emily dried quickly, wrapping in a fluffy terry cloth towel. She walked back in the bedroom and saw she was still alone. In about 90 seconds, she dropped her towel and put on a pair of pajamas from the top drawer. She was sitting on the edge of the bed drying her hair when Gabriel came into the room.
“Am I in trouble?” he asked.
“I think I will let you off with a warning this time.” Emily replied. “Are you trying to tell me something though?”
“What do you mean?”
“There is nothing black in there.”
“Change is good. While you are certainly beautiful in black, no one would argue about your being pretty in pink as well.”
Emily wore a pair of cotton candy pink satin pajama pants and a hot pink cotton tank top.
“Thank you.” She smiled and a silence filled the room. She started brushing her chin length hair.
“Is it alright to admit I am a bit nervous right now?” Gabriel asked.
“C'mere,” she called him over to the bed with her hand. When he sat beside her, Emily took his face in her hands. “Nothing will happen tonight that you're uncomfortable with. Promise.”
They both laughed and Gabriel kissed her. He nodded, going into the bathroom. When he returned dressed for bed, Emily was under the covers and reading Time Magazine.
“I didn’t know my mother had been interviewed.” She said.
“What is she discussing?”
“Democracy spreading through Eastern Europe.” Emily looked at him as he got into bed. She wondered if he could hear her heart thumping. She didn’t feel as nervous as before but clearly she was. “I wonder if she will be obsolete after the change.”
“Elizabeth Prentiss, obsolete…I don’t think so. She will adapt as everyone will I'm sure. Plenty of politicians won't know who to go after if there aren’t anymore Commie Bastards.” Gabriel turned off his lamp and settled on the mattress. “I loathe politics.”
“Me too,” Emily plunged them into darkness, making her way into his arms. She sighed when he rubbed her back.
“What happened with Ted Lowell tonight?”
“Gabe…stop it.”
“I will kick his ass if you want me to.”
“You will do nothing of the sort.” Emily laughed. “Your hands are precious, remember?”
“They’re holding something precious. They love to touch something precious.”
“I loved to be touched. I just…”
“You never have to explain to me. Touching is definitely not contingent upon you spending the night. Holding you is quite pleasurable.”
“Surely not as much.”
“You're wrong.” Gabriel replied. “You are allowed to touch me as well though. It’s important that we put that out there…reference and all.”
“Hmm. So what about…”
Emily starting tickling him and Gabriel shouted. He tried to move away but she straddled him, pinning him down and going for broke. She was light as a feather but her steel grip surprised him.
“Oh God, oh God, I am going to piss myself! Emily!”
She burst into laughter, stopping the torture. Gabriel rolled them on the mattress. He was on top of her but did not attempt to pin her down. That was not his style with women and something told him it would be a very bad idea, even in play. He sensed things about Emily. Age was not the only reason she was unnerved about intimacy. Someday maybe she would trust him enough to tell him anything. Until then he would follow her cues.
“Beautiful but evil,” his lips kissed her neck. “Yet I'm completely enamored.”
“Mmm, Gabe.” She slipped her arms around his neck and held him close.
She didn’t know how far they would go; right now it felt so good. Instead of worrying about the future, the next twenty minutes or the next five, Emily would live in the moment. She knew if she told him to stop that he would. She was safe with him and enamored as well.
***