The next morning, Emma woke up with a pounding headache. Her head throbbed, and the fog from last night still clung to her thoughts. She groaned—this was the first time she'd drunk that much, and she was paying the price.
Bits and pieces came back to her: Daniel showing up, his calm voice trying to reach her through her tipsy haze, and something about the fire station's open day. She pressed her palms to her temples, trying to quiet the ache and shake off the guilt. She kept telling herself everything was fine, that she was just being dramatic—but the uneasy feeling didn't go away.
After drinking some water and resting, she finally pulled herself into the shower. The hot water helped her gather the strength to face the day. She dressed and made her way to the fire station.
The place was buzzing with energy—families, kids, couples, and curious visitors everywhere. The scent of smoke, metal, and coffee filled the air. Emma scanned the crowd until she spotted Daniel in his uniform, confidently explaining gear to a group of children. Her chest tightened—not from nerves, but from the sight beside him.
Lina.
She stood close to Daniel, smiling brightly, her voice animated as she interviewed him. Her hand brushed his arm, lingering just a second too long.
Emma looked away, her stomach twisting. She told herself she had no reason to feel like this.
But she did.
Just then, Daniel glanced up and spotted her. Without hesitation, he excused himself and made his way over, his expression softening as he approached. "You're here," he said, his voice warm with relief. "How are you feeling? Is your head still hurting?" The genuine concern in his eyes made Emma's chest tighten.
She managed a small smile. "Much better, thank you for asking." She hesitated, then added, "And I'm sorry about last night. I wasn't… myself."
Daniel shook his head, his lips curving into that familiar, reassuring smile that always made her feel safe. "Don't worry about it. I'm just relieved to see you better." He glanced back at the crowd, where Lina was now watching them with a curious tilt of her head, before turning to Emma again. "Just have a look around, enjoy the event, and wait for me after this is over, okay? There's something I'd like to talk to you about."
Emma nodded, her grip tightening on her bag as she watched Daniel walk away. From the corner of her eye, she caught Lina staring at her, eyes cool and assessing. Emma forced a small, polite smile, but Lina just raised her chin and turned without a word. The tension between them was unmistakable.
Soon, the firefighters started calling out with teasing grins—"Hey, Sister-in-law!" and "When's the wedding?" Their laughter echoed through the station, making Emma's face flush. She rolled her eyes, but it was clear they meant well—and that they supported her and Daniel. Lina, nearby, clearly didn't share the feeling. Her fingers tapped against her notepad, her lips pressed into a thin line. She'd noticed the bond between Emma and Daniel, and she didn't like it.
Then Lina made her move. With a dramatic sway, she pressed a hand to her forehead and sighed, "Oh, Captain Daniel… I feel so dizzy…"
Before Emma could react, Daniel instinctively stepped in, catching Lina and lifting her into his arms. As he carried her to the medical room, Lina clung to him a little too tightly, her fingers brushing his collar like it meant something. As they passed, Lina turned her head just enough to shoot Emma a smug smile.
Emma's stomach sank. The message was clear.
Emma clenched her jaw, a flicker of irritation rising in her chest. She knew Lina was faking it, but seeing Daniel carry her so protectively still hurt. He's just doing his job, she told herself, trying to keep her face calm. Still, the question lingered—was Lina really dizzy, or just putting on a show to get close to him?
Not wanting to assume the worst, Emma quietly followed after them, her steps light and steady.
Inside the medical room, Daniel gently set Lina down on the cot, his brow furrowed with concern. "Are you still feeling unwell?" he asked, his voice steady but kind. "Would you like to rest for a bit?"
Lina fluttered her lashes, shaking her head with exaggerated frailty. "I'm fine now, thank you, Captain Daniel."
Daniel gave a curt nod, his eyes still filled with professional care. "If you need anything, just let me know."
Then, without warning, Lina lunged forward, wrapping her arms around his neck in a tight embrace. "Captain Daniel," she blurted out, her voice trembling with theatrical emotion, "I like you!"
Daniel caught a glimpse of Emma's reflection in the small mirror on the wall—her face pale, lips parted in shock. His body tensed instantly. In one sharp move, he stepped away from Lina, his expression shifting from surprise to panic.
"Emma—" he called, turning toward the door. But she was already gone, the door clicking shut behind her.
Daniel turned back to Lina, his voice low and firm. "I'm sorry, Miss Lina. I have a girlfriend."
Without waiting for a response, he rushed out, his boots pounding against the floor as he scanned the crowd. But Emma was nowhere to be seen.
He pulled out his phone, calling her again and again. Every call went to voicemail.
Guilt settled heavily in his chest. He should've set clearer boundaries with Lina. And he should've made sure Emma never had a reason to doubt him.
Seconds later, a single text finally came through:
"Sorry. I need some time alone to cool off. Please focus on your work—don't look for me."
Daniel gripped his phone so tightly his knuckles turned white. He knew Emma well—when she asked for space, she meant it. But that didn't ease the aching in his chest or the need to make things right before the gap between them grew wider.
Her cold message echoed in his mind, tightening the worry already weighing him down. What if she didn't let him explain? What if this misunderstanding ruined everything?
As soon as his shift ended, he rushed to her place, heart pounding as he stood at her door in the cool evening air. He knocked, each second dragging until the door finally creaked open. Emma stood there, arms crossed, face tired and guarded. The shadows under her eyes told him all he needed to know—she was hurting.
"Daniel, I don't want to see you right now," she said quietly but firmly. "I told you I need time."
Daniel took a breath and met her gaze. "Emma, I know you're upset, but I don't want things to get worse between us. Please—just give me a chance to talk, without any confusion. Just us."
For a long moment, Emma simply studied him, her expression unreadable. Then, with a resigned sigh, she stepped aside, gesturing for him to enter. "Alright, come in."
Relief swept over Daniel as he stepped inside, the familiar warmth of her home easing some of the tension in his chest. They sat down on the couch, the silence between them heavy but not angry.
Daniel turned to her, his hands clasped tightly. "Emma, what you saw today—it wasn't what it looked like," he said sincerely. "I had no idea Lina felt that way. I never encouraged her, and I definitely didn't expect her to confess."
Emma stayed quiet for a moment, her fingers tracing the couch fabric slowly. Finally, she spoke, her voice soft and hesitant. "Daniel, it wasn't just today. I came by the station before and saw her being flirty with you—touching your arm, laughing at everything you said. It was clear how she felt. I just... didn't say anything because I didn't want to seem jealous."
Daniel's heart clenched at her confession. He reached out, gently taking her hand in his, relieved when she didn't pull away. "Emma, I'm sorry, but I really have nothing with her. I swear, I only love you. I've never even thought of her in that way—not once."
Emma lowered her gaze to their joined hands, her voice quiet. "I know you've never given me a reason to doubt you. But seeing someone like her around you—it made me question myself. She's so confident, so put together. And it made me feel… small. Insecure. And I hate feeling like that. It's not who I usually am."
Daniel's heart ached hearing the pain in her words. He gently lifted her chin so their eyes met. "Emma, you're the only woman I've ever loved—and the only one I ever will," he said firmly. "You're beautiful, yes—but I love you because of who you are. Your heart, your strength, your intelligence. You make me better. No one else has even come close."
Her chest loosened at his words, a warm wave of relief rushing in to replace the doubt. She knew Daniel—honest, loyal, grounded—and his sincerity showed in every word.
With a light laugh, Emma said teasingly, "Who knew Captain Daniel could be such a softie?" The sound of her laughter filled the room, lifting the last of the heaviness between them. Smiling, Daniel pulled her into a tight hug, holding her close like he never wanted to let go, his heart still pounding with relief that she was back in his arms.
"Emma," Daniel whispered, his voice thick with emotion as he buried his face against her neck, breathing in the familiar scent of her shampoo. "When you pulled away, I thought… maybe you didn't want me anymore." The words spilled out, stripped of his usual calm, raw and honest. "I love you, and no matter what, I won't let you go." His voice shook, carrying the weight of fear he had tried to hide.
Emma felt his heart racing against her chest, his warmth slowly dissolving the doubt that had lingered inside her. She clutched his sleeve tightly, grounding herself in his presence. "You were really that scared I'd leave?" she asked quietly.
"Of course I was," he said, pulling back just enough to look at her. "You're everything to me." His tone softened, but his eyes grew serious. "And please… don't drink like that again. Especially not with another guy. I was worried sick."
Emma tilted her head, a playful spark returning to her eyes. "Alright, I get it. What's wrong? Worried another guy might try something?" she teased, poking his chest.
Daniel's expression darkened. "Yes," he said flatly. "I almost punched him yesterday when I saw him holding you." The memory clearly still bothered him—seeing her drunk, unsteady, with someone else's hands on her. His voice dropped, low and firm. "Emma, it's dangerous for you to be out drinking like that."
Noticing the concern in his eyes, Emma's teasing faded. She gave a small nod. "Okay, Captain Daniel. I'll be more careful. No more drinking like that."
Daniel frowned at the title, his hands moving up to cup her face. "Why do you keep calling me 'Captain Daniel'? Are you still upset?"
Emma shook her head, smiling shyly. "No, I'm not."
"Then call me by my name," he said softly, brushing his thumb across her cheek.
Emma blushed and looked away. "I'm shy," she mumbled.
Daniel's lips curved into a slow, playful smile. "I want to hear it," he murmured, gently easing her back onto the sofa and leaning over her. His hand slid into her hair, tilting her face toward his. "Say it," he whispered, his breath warm against her lips.
Trapped beneath him, surrounded by his warmth and the intoxicating scent of his cologne, Emma felt her resolve crumble. Her heart hammered wildly as she finally whispered, "Daniel."
Daniel pulled her into a firm embrace, his lips crashing into hers with a fierce, undeniable urgency. The kiss was deep and full of raw emotion, leaving no space for doubt. Emma's body trembled under his touch as she kissed him back just as hungrily, their lips moving in perfect sync. Her hands clutched at his shirt, holding him close like she couldn't bear to let go.
Their bodies pressed together, the heat between them rising with every second. Daniel's hands slid along her back with a mix of strength and care, his fingers tracing gentle lines down her spine, making her shiver.
Their kiss deepened, breathless and hot, their mouths moving together in a rhythm that made the world fade away. Emma could feel his heartbeat pounding against her chest, matching her own. Just when the intensity became almost too much, she pulled back slightly, their lips still close, her breath mingling with his.
"What's wrong?" Daniel murmured, his voice rough with desire, his warm breath fanning across her flushed skin.
A teasing glint flickered in Emma's eyes as she whispered, "Don't you always tell me to be reserved?"
Daniel chuckled, the sound low and husky as he brushed his thumb along her cheekbone, his gaze burning into hers. "Yes," he admitted, "but this time, I don't want to hold back—I am afraid that tomorrow you will ignore me again." His words were soft, laced with a vulnerability that made Emma's heart clench.
Her face flushed even deeper at his confession, but her eyes sparkled with uncontained delight. "I love you so much," Daniel continued, his voice thick with emotion as he pulled her back into his arms. "Every minute we're apart, I miss you terribly."
Emma clung to him, her fingers threading through his hair as she nestled against his chest. "But how can you think of me when there's a beautiful reporter constantly around you?" she murmured, unable to resist voicing the insecurity that had nagged at her.
Daniel's lips curved into a knowing smile. "So my girlfriend is jealous, huh?" he teased lightly, his fingers tracing idle circles on her back.
Emma huffed, but her curiosity got the better of her. "Don't you feel any attraction toward her?"
Daniel shook his head without hesitation, his arms tightening around her. "Not at all," he said firmly. "I only see her as a working partner—nothing more."
"But she is really beautiful, with an amazing figure," Emma pressed, her voice small despite her playful tone.
Daniel's hand slid up to cradle the back of her head, his fingers threading through her silken strands as he gazed at her with unwavering devotion. "My heart belongs only to you," he vowed. "Other women are nothing to me. You know who I am—I don't fall for someone easily. I was single until I met you."
His words washed over her like a balm, dissolving the last remnants of her unease. Overcome with emotion, Emma buried her face against his neck, her arms winding around him in a fierce embrace. She never wanted to let go.
Their lips met again, this time with even greater urgency, their kiss a fiery collision of longing and reassurance. Their tongues moved together in a slow, sensual dance, each stroke a silent promise of devotion. The world around them faded into insignificance—nothing existed but the heat of their bodies, the intoxicating taste of each other, and the overwhelming need to be as close as possible.
Unable to resist any longer, Daniel swept Emma into his arms, carrying her effortlessly to her bedroom. He laid her down on the soft sheets with a tenderness that contrasted with the hunger in his eyes. His fingertips traced the curve of her cheek before he leaned down to capture her lips once more, his kiss deep and lingering, their breaths growing heavier with each passing second.
With deliberate slowness, Daniel undressed, revealing the sculpted muscles of his torso—the broad shoulders, the defined ridges of his abdomen, the powerful arms that had carried her so effortlessly. Emma's breath hitched at the sight, her pulse quickening as she drank in the sheer perfection of his body.
Then, with equal care, he began to undress her, peeling away each layer until her soft, alluring form was bared before him. His gaze darkened with desire as he took her in, his fingers skimming over her skin as if memorizing every curve.
"Emma," he murmured, his voice thick with reverence, "you are so beautiful."
Daniel caressed her hair and gazed tenderly at her face, feeling an intimacy and warmth he had never known before—a feeling that left him utterly enchanted. He kissed her lips, his tongue exploring hers, and Emma responded with equal passion, their bodies drawing ever closer. In that moment, the fire of their love blazed brightly, igniting their souls.
Daniel's hands roamed over Emma's body, gently caressing her skin. Emma's sensitivity grew, and her breathing quickened.
Slowly, Daniel undid his pants, revealing his aroused state. Emma felt a flush of shyness as she saw Daniel's naked reaction for the first time—his impressive body, with clearly defined muscles and not an ounce of extra flesh, exuded an irresistible charm. Emma's hand began to explore his body; her fingertips lightly traced over his chest, feeling the strength beneath. His breathing became more rapid as she moved downward, gently caressing his abdomen and feeling his muscles contract and tremble under her touch. Daniel continued to kiss Emma's neck and shoulders, while his hands lovingly massaged her soft, full breasts.
Daniel could feel the depth of Emma's love and desire. "Emma, are you ready? Once I enter you, you will be mine," he whispered.
At his words, Emma's heart raced. She knew this was an important moment—she was ready, and she wanted nothing more than to be with Daniel, to be his woman.
"I've wanted to be yours for so long," Emma replied.
Slowly, Daniel spread Emma's legs and gently inserted himself into her. At first, Emma felt a sharp pain, but as Daniel began his slow, rhythmic thrusts, she gradually adjusted, matching his pace. Their moans and gasps filled the room as they surrendered to passionate desire, their bodies entwining in an endless dance of love. Emma felt Daniel's warmth and strength, as if she were completely enveloped in his love, and she clutched his shoulders tightly, drawing herself even closer.
Daniel continued his steady rhythm, and Emma's breathing grew more rapid as her arousal flowed freely, smoothing his movements. Sensing her need, Daniel firmly gripped her slender waist and deepened his thrusts. Emma released a low moan that shifted quickly into an excited cry as their bodies pressed together, their passion plunging them into waves of ecstasy.
After a while, Daniel felt the intensity rising—he quickened his pace. His breathing grew urgent, his heart raced, and his body trembled with deep moans. Emma sensed the change in him; she knew he was nearing climax. Clinging to him tightly, she let him feel her love and warmth.
Daniel's body became increasingly sensitive; his rapid breathing and racing heartbeat built until, finally, his body shuddered as he reached climax, releasing his passionate essence inside Emma. His body relaxed, and he was overcome with deep satisfaction. Holding Emma close, he let her feel the depth of his love and warmth.
Afterward, Daniel tenderly helped Emma clean herself, carefully wiping her intimate areas. Emma's cheeks flushed as she shyly closed her eyes, listening to his gentle breathing and delicate care. Although she felt a bit embarrassed, a comforting warmth filled her heart—she knew someone truly cared for her.
Daniel looked at her with eyes full of love and concern. He leaned down and gently kissed her forehead, asking softly, "Does it hurt?"
Emma shook her head slightly, a look of reassurance and gratitude on her face. She knew that this man cared deeply for her, for her body and her feelings. She felt incredibly lucky to have someone who loved her so much.
Daniel smiled as he gently kissed her lips again—a kiss full of tenderness and warmth that made Emma's heart soar.