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Maekar was rapid firing text messages to the text chat he shared with his four sons as he stormed up the school steps, and of course none of them were responding. He knew this was their lunch time, there was no reason for them to be ignoring him. They just delighted in driving him absolutely insane, no doubt hoping that he will pull his hair out in frustration. He was so lost in thought that he didn't notice the police car pulling up to the curb behind him to park and his second son stepping out of the vehicle.

"Insufferable—" he muttered as he opened the glass doors of the school's main office, his stomach tight with nerves as he prepared to face the principal. Again.

"Mr. Targaryen, thank you for coming so quickly," the school's secretary stood with a nervous smile. "We've only just found him—"

"Which one was it this time?"

"It was me, Dad," came his second son's voice behind him. His shoulders fell, stomach plummeting at that single, attitude ridden sentence.

"Gods give me patience," he rolled his eyes and then faced the very image of himself at 10 years of age. He'd faced off with Aerion many times in recent months, with increasing frequency since his wife and the boys' mother passed away two years ago. However this time, a police officer stood at Aerion's back. Buggering hells. Why did she have to be so beautiful? Why the fuck did he even notice? He hadn't looked twice at a woman in years.

"Mr. Targaryen my name is Sansa Stark, I am a Sergeant with the Stormland County Sheriff's Department," she extended her hand and he belatedly realized she was waiting to shake his. Hand shake sorted, he couldn't help but notice that she wasn't wearing a ring—why did he even notice that? Why was he noticing things!? Now was not the time. Gods be good man, get it together.

"Please, call me Maekar," he smiled.

"Maekar," she nodded and continued. "I've recently been assigned the rotation of School Resource Officer, I bounce back and forth between the upper and lower schools. I've become very well acquainted with all four of your boys."

"Good Gods—" he ran a hand over his face. His exasperation knew now bounds.

"You've definitely got your hands full, I'll give you that," she gave a reassuring smile and he noticed the dimple in her left cheek. She turned back to Aerion, leaning down to talk quietly with him. "Remember what we talked about?"

"Yeah," he nodded, chewing his lower lip. "You'll…do what you said?"

"I will," she promised, lifting a fist. "Go straight back to class and no more fights, okay?"

"Alright," he bumped his fist against hers and shuffled down the hallway, adjusting his backpack over his shoulder.

"Do you have a few minutes?" Sergeant Stark rose to her full height and faced him.

"Of course," he nodded.

"There's a bench out front," she nodded. "It's a little less stuffy than…here."

"Lead the way," he stepped forward to open the door for her, definitely not watching her ass in her uniform pants as she passed. He'd never given much thought to a woman in uniform; his wife had been an overtly feminine woman, a school teacher whose students adored her. But there was something inherently appealing about the figure before him, strong and beautiful, but impossibly graceful.

"Alright," she began as he sat on the bench beside her. She turned slightly to face him, resting her hands in her lap. "Let me start by prefacing that I have 4 brothers, and a sister who was so much of a tomboy growing up that she might as well have been another brother."

"Gods, and I thought I had a lot of children," he sighed.

"My youngest brother Rickon, he loved to fight," she carried on. "He would fight at home, at school, in the grocery store—you get my point. It reached a point that he was in danger of being expelled, and one of the guidance counselors suggested that perhaps he needed an outlet for the energy. Something to tire him out, really. So my parents signed him up for a boxing summer camp."

"Did it work?"

"It did," she nodded. "Boxing became his full-time focus after that. He finally had an outlet for the energy and a way to work through his emotions, which was definitely a lifesaver when he hit puberty. Rickon is now a Westeros Championship winner and he graduated at the top of his class."

"So what you're saying is that Aerion needs a similar outlet," he deducted.

"Yes, I believe so," she nodded. "Today he shoved another boy so hard that he knocked him over and then took off running. I picked him up in my car almost a block away."

"Gods," he exhaled, leaning forward to hang his head into his hands. "They're all so…feral."

"Daeron is a good boy, a bit of a daydreamer," she agreed. "Aemon usually gets into trouble trying to sneak to the library instead of class—which, I think he might be able to move up a grade, he's so far ahead of his classmates. You should talk to his teacher directly about that. And Aegon…"

"Good old Egg," he chuckled, shaking his head.

"Egg, yes. Last week he announced to his class that aliens were going to invade and put probes in our bottoms. This week he's decided that he wants to be a police officer and follows me around most of the time," she laughed. "They're good boys at heart, Maekar. I can see that."

"It was so much easier when Dyanna was alive," he said softly. "She knew how to handle them so perfectly, to settle them and guide them."

"I am very sorry for your loss. Some of the staff here and Aemon have told me a lot about her and she sounded very lovely."

"Thank you," he replied. "She was, yes."

"I know it can't be easy to raise them on your own and I would like to help where I can."

"Help?" he met her eyes, confused as to what she meant.

"The man who does the advanced self defense training for the Sheriff's department does a lot of learning experience camps for kids in his spare time. In a few weeks he's going to be doing a fencing camp with some other short blade techniques, Aerion has expressed an interest in signing up for it."

"Fencing…" Maekar sighed.

"It's a good sport, requires physical and mental strength, I think it would be good for him. He's willing to promise good behavior, provided that he can attend and perhaps pursue lessons beyond camp, if it suits him."

"That is a deal I am willing to make," he agreed. "I am desperate for some semblance of peace."

"I understand. I'll tell him to expect that Aerion will be attending and I'll have the school get you the details for sign up," she opened a Velcro flap on her tactical vest and produced a business card. "This has my work email on it should you need to contact me for anything regarding the boys and school," she produced a pen from said vest and wrote her phone number on the back. "That is my cell if there is ever an emergency."

"Thank you very much, Sergeant Stark."

"Please, call me Sansa," she smiled as she stood. "I have a feeling that we'll be seeing a lot of each other in the coming school years, Maekar."

"Sansa," he stood, offering her his hand and they shared another brief shake. "Thank you for being an ally, Gods know that I am in desperate need of them at this point."

"Of course. Everyone needs a village, especially when it comes to raising four boys."

"No kidding," he agreed, very grateful that she was willing to work with him and the boys—who had not mentioned her before, which was interesting. He'd talk with them over dinner tonight, for now he had to get back to work and salvage what he could of the rest of his afternoon.

"Turn here," the boys in the backseat told her and Sansa took a deep breath as she turned the car onto the long driveway that led to the secluded house that the Targaryen's called home. She had been doing her final sweeps of the school for the afternoon when she'd found Daeron asleep in the upper and lower schools' shared library, Aemon buried in a book beside him. They had lost track of time and missed the bus, one they rarely took because Maekar usually picked them up after their respective after-school programs. Maekar, she smiled. He was quite something. She enjoyed their brief conversations when they were able to have them, but also enjoyed the way that they always waved as their paths crossed. He was a good man, a dedicated father, if a bit overwhelmed. She couldn't fault him for that, the boys would overwhelm her too.

As she parked beside Maekar's large white SUV, the front door opened and the man himself appeared.

"Please tell me you have Daeron and Aemon," he came down the steps, uncaring that he was barefooted.

"I do," Sansa shut off the engine and stepped out. Opening the back door she let the boys out, smiling as Maekar pulled them into his arms.

"Sorry, Dad," Daeron sighed, clearly embarrassed at being hugged by his dad, just normal 12 year old behavior. "Phone died."

"I wanted to call you, but I realize that I don't have your number. The school office was closed up and the boys couldn't remember it," Sansa told Maekar. "Best I could do was bring them home."

"I was actually about to call you, the school thought that the boys got on the bus," Maekar said. "Thank you so much for bringing them home."

"Of course, I had to get back to the station anyway," she replied as Egg appeared in the doorway.

"Sansa!"

"Hey Buddy," she greeted the exuberant 6-year old as he ran up to her. "Next time you gotta make sure that all of your brother's make it onto the bus, okay?"

"You got it," the boy nodded, blonde hair falling over his forehead. "Only reason I didn't notice is because I was arguing with Aerion…"

"Boys, inside, its almost dinner time," Maekar ushered them away, and after a brief goodbye to Sansa, they ran inside, leaving her alone with Maekar. "Thank you again. I thought I was going to have a heart attack."

"That would not be good," she pulled her phone from her pocket and unlocked it to bring up the contacts. "Put your information in, I will let you know next time," she said and he quickly put his information into her phone before handing it back. "Aerion said you signed him up for the fencing camp, he's been very well behaved."

"Thank the Gods," he chuckled. "That boy had me pulling my hair out."

"And Egg tells me that you're coming to speak at career day. That's going to be fun."

"Ah yes, the very interesting world of contract law," he said sarcastically. "The type of law that you go into when you want to deal with as few people as possible."

"It surprises me that you aren't a 'people person'," she admitted.

"My tolerance for insufferable people is quite low, you are one of the very few exceptions. My elder brother and his wife the only others."

"I am honored," she laughed, admiring the way his jaw clenched as he pondered insufferable people. He was a handsome man, that couldn't be denied. Well kept silver-blonde hair and beard, eyes so blue they were nearly violet, and his voice…he spoke with such a power and presence that she couldn't help but take notice of his deep, even timbre.

"Will you be speaking at career day?"

"I am along with a coworker of mine, and I have also called in a favor from the boys at Engine 33 and they're bringing a fire truck to surprise everyone."

"How will contract law ever compete?" he sarcastically replied. She did love a good bit of sarcasm.

"Don't worry. It's mostly so that the teachers can ogle the firemen," she laughed. "Dunk always pulls a big crowd, he is very popular with the ladies."

"Dunk?" Maekar prompted.

"Duncan Oakheart, he's one of the engine 33 drivers and happens to be nearly seven feet tall and built like a truck. They go crazy for him."

"Interesting," he frowned. "Is he your…?"

"No," she shook her head, doing her best not to look like a moron and fucking giggle. "No, I am very single."

"I see…" he cleared his throat. "Would you…what I mean to say is…?" She waited for him to ask but he trailed off , clenching his jaw.

"Maekar?" she prompted, trying not to laugh at his endearing awkwardness. He was clearly struggling and it was absolutely adorable.

"This isn't easy, you know, not when you're standing there with a gun on your hip," he reasoned.

"I have a taser and pepper spray too."

"You're not helping."

"Are you asking me out?"

"I'm certainly trying to, but you're more than a bit intimidating for an old widower with four feral sons and absolutely no charm."

"You're not old."

"I'm thirty-eight."

"Twenty-six, not so far off," she countered.

"Still—"

"You have more charm than you realize," she smiled. "And those four feral boys are watching from the window," she nodded to where the four blonde haired boys were peeking out the front window. Clearly they were fascinated by what was happening between her and their father.

"At the very least, I can assure you that what I lack in charm I more than make up for in other areas," he offered.

"Well, doesn't that sound promising," she couldn't wait to discover the many layers of Maekar Targaryen.

"Have dinner with me sometime?" He finally asked. "Please."

"Gladly. You've got my number. Let me know when."

"I will," he gave a small smile and then turned to glare at the boys who vanished instantly.

"Goodbye, Maekar," she laughed as she walked back to her car.

"See you soon, Sansa."

Maekar situated his car alongside Sansa's in the driveway of the address she'd given him, taking several deep breaths once he'd shut the motor off. He was a mess of nerves and anxiety—both of which were not helped by the fact that when he'd dropped the boys off at Baelor's house, his brother had unceremoniously tossed a box of condoms into his hands. Buggering nightmare he was; Maekar had rolled his eyes and quickly stashed them in the glove box and out of sight.

With the boys safe at Baelor's and condoms well hidden, he'd then ventured across town to Sansa's address. It had been a week since he'd finally worked up the nerve to ask her to dinner— Gods had he been surprised that she had actually said yes, but thankfully the boys had been on their best behavior which meant the week flew by. Unbuckling his seatbelt he did all he could to muster his courage as he walked up the pathway towards the front door. He could do this. He could—oh no….

"Good Gods," he muttered when Sansa appeared in the open doorway.

"Hello," she smiled as she locked her front door and slung an evening bag that dangled from a long chain strap over her shoulder. She wore a very tight, very sleek black cocktail dress and simple silver jewelry. Her hair and makeup were impeccable, and he was barely able to squash down the sudden desire to pull her into his arms.

"I'm only just now realizing that I've never seen you in anything but your uniform. I was not aware of the incredible body you have—I am decidedly out of my league," he swallowed thickly, suddenly very unsure of how this evening was going to go.

"Oh?" she walked closer, long legs ending in stellar stiletto heels. With the help of those sinful shoes she nearly looked him straight in the eye, something he'd never experienced before. "There's a compliment in there somewhere, I think. Regardless, I don't think there is such a thing as 'leagues'. It all depends on mental chemistry and physical attraction. Which we have plenty of both."

"You are stunning," he said softly. "I did not realize how much so…" his hand settled on the curve of her waist, just above the flare of her hip. The bulk of her uniform and tactical vest had done him dirty, blindsiding him now with downright dangerous and voluptuous curves. He needed to get himself under control, it had been a very long time since he'd even thought about sex, let alone felt his dick spring to life. It certainly wouldn't do to have a half-hard cock during dinner, that was just rude.

"You're quite handsome yourself," she smoothed a hand over his chest, tracing the line of buttons. While he hadn't opted for a tie this evening, he had still worn a black button down and black suit to look his best for their date. It was his first 'first date' in a very long time, he had to make a good impression on the young woman that had given him a chance. "You shaved your beard."

"I thought it would make me look younger," he grimaced. "It did not. So, I will be growing it back post-haste," he added and she laughed, shaking her head.

"You don't need to look any younger for me, I'll gladly take you as you are," she said, slipping her hand into his. "Come on, Mae. Let's go see about our first date."

"As you say," he escorted her to the car, helping her into the SUV before sliding behind the wheel. "I suppose I should make sure I don't speed or run any red lights," he mused as he started the car and put his seatbelt on.

"Do what you like, I'm off duty," she countered.

"Don't tempt me," he smirked as he piloted the car towards the very posh Dornish restaurant that Baelor and Jena had recommended. If Baelor was a fan then he knew that dinner was going to be delicious; his older brother had grown up cooking alongside their mother and he knew his way around a kitchen, so if he says it's good, then it was good.

"Chances are if someone pulled you over in this neck of the woods, they'd be one of my coworkers anyway. So let's not do that and give them more fodder to give me a hard time," she said. "That means if we're going to park up and make out somewhere later, we'd better find a good hiding spot," Maekar's entire body reacted to that statement, hands even tightening on the steering wheel in an attempt to stop himself from reaching for her.

"I haven't made made out in a car since I was a teenager," he chuckled.

"Same," she replied. "When I decided that wanted to go into law enforcement my personal life became very boring. Pitifully so."

"I've always been very boring," he turned into the restaurant's parking lot. "I met Dyanna in school and we were married at 20, not exactly adventurous."

"You were lucky, you found love early," she offered.

"For a time," he parked the car and shut off the engine. "And then Baelor wasn't far behind us, he married Jena a month later, at 22, she was 20."

 "Have you dated since..?"

"No," he laughed and unbuckled his seatbelt. "My time has been dedicated to the boys and their well-being—as much as they wanted to go completely feral, I couldn't let them."

"Understandable. They're nearly my full time job,"

"They've been better. Since you've started at the school," he noted. "They seem to have a purpose and a direction."

"Like I said, I come from a large family, I'm good with kids," she said as they exited the car. He came around to help her out, twining their fingers together as he shut the door and locked the car. As much as he wanted to pin her against her car and explore every inch of her, he settled for holding her hand. First things first, tackle their first date.

The restaurant was fairly crowded but it wasn't terribly loud, and soon they were seated at a table near the large windows that overlooked Central Park and the twinkle light covered trees dotted throughout. It was very romantic, nicely played Baelor, very romantic. He'd have to thank his brother for this recommendation later.

"Is your large family why you wanted to work at the school?" Maekar asked as they took their seats across from each other.

"Yes, the school resource officer at out school helped my mother a lot with Arya and Rickon," she replied. "I thought it was a good way to serve the community and connect with the future."

"That's very admirable," he said, admiring the way her hair gleamed under the Dornish lamps that hung from the ceiling. "You are so beautiful," he said before he could stop himself. "I did not mean to say that out loud, I apologize."

"There is no need," she reached out to cover his hand with hers where it was resting on the table. "Thank you for the compliment."

"You're very welcome," he cleared his throat. "Now for the big question, do you trust me enough to order for us both?"

"I defer to your Dornish expertise."

"Brilliant."

Sansa observed Maekar as he ordered, speaking with the confidence of a man who knew the cuisine like the back of his hand, clearly impressing the waiter as well. When the order was placed and they were alone he fixed her with his intense gaze, a very small and mysterious smile on his face. She'd recognized straight away that Maekar Targaryen was an intense man, very tightly coiled and firmly in control of his person and faculties at all times. She had wondered straight away what was hidden beneath each layer of him, what secrets did he hold, what passions did he hide. Was he always this commanding or did he fold when the moment of truth came? Would he surrender himself to a woman's power if she asked for it? Would he demand her surrender?…Or would he beg?

She supposed that she'd always had a preference for intense—bordering on grumpy, older men. The last man she'd dated had been a right grumpy bastard when they'd first met. Still, he'd softened eventually, finally setting aside his facial scarring to succumb to her touch and her gentle ways. However his firm—bordering on vehement, stance on never having children had brought a quick end to their brief affair, but it had been fun while it lasted. Which meant that she had to broach the topic early so they didn't waste time. Easier said than done but Maekar's next words solved the problem for her.

"Given that you work so closely with children, I would imagine that you want children of your own someday," he ventured.

"I do, yes," she replied. "Is that a deal breaker for you? I completely understand if it is."

"Not at all," he assured her. "It would be highly hypocritical to deny my partner children of her own when I have four damn-near clones of myself out there terrorizing the realm, don't you think?"

"A bit," she couldn't help but smile at their honest conversation, something you didn't often get on a first date. They weren't, she decided, trying to impress each other, they were just being themselves, which was incredibly freeing. She supposed a man as deeply intense as Maekar didn't give much thought for pretense or falsities, he was simply himself and those who couldn't handle that did not remain in his life for long. She admired that, being so unapologetically yourself that you organically curated your support group and friends. It was admirable, truly.

From there, their evening lapsed into the usual first date conversation topics of background and interests, laughing as they shared stories and anecdotes. The food was absolutely incredible, which meant she ate far too much but she couldn't seem to stop herself. Whatever it was that he had ordered for them was some of the best food she'd ever eaten. Bellies full and bill paid, they decided to walk around the beautiful park that had been visible from their table.

"Here," Maekar slipped his jacket off, helping her slide her arms into it and settle it on her shoulders. She was surprised when he carefully moved her hair from inside the collar, draping it down her back. Her hair was her one vanity, she hated cutting it and it was easy to put it in a bun for work, so at the moment it hung to her bottom. But for a man to pay attention to such a small detail was…well, lovely.

"Thank you," she smiled, the scent of his cologne tickling her nostrils. "I guess I didn't exactly dress for warmth tonight."

"I am certainly not complaining about your dress," he took her hand as they moved along the paved walkway. "You do look stunning."

"Thank you," she felt her cheeks warm. He'd mentioned several times how beautiful she was and she was quite unused to such compliments. She usually spent her days in a uniform that did very little for her figure and on her days off she wasn't exactly a fashionista. This dress she'd had for years, it was her go-to function dress; slinky, tight, low cut, it was a great multi-purpose piece of clothing.

"I'd like to see you again, if you're willing and up for it," he said as they reached a large willow tree where the trunk was wrapped in strings of twinkle lights, giving it an ethereal glow. He stopped then, and turned to face her.

"I'd like that," she nodded.

"It's been a long time since I've been on a date," he said softly, stepping closer and her heart began to race in anticipation. "Would it be too forward of me to kiss you?"

"Not at all," she hated how breathless she sounded but it couldn't be helped. She was a desperate woman without shame. A wanton hussy if you would…

"I've been thinking about kissing you for a while now," he stepped close enough that their bodies brushed against each other and lifted his hands to settle them on her waist before sliding around to cup her back beneath the suit jacket.

"I think you should, you really should—" her words cut off as he finally lowered his lips to hers. She couldn't help but sigh and melt against his solid frame, her hands coming up to rest on his chest. There, beside the glowing willow tree and wrapped in his jacket, Maekar kissed the absolute Seven Hells out of her.

And she fucking loved it.

"That's her," Maekar said softly to his brother where they stood in the outskirts of the chaos. It was career day at the school, and since both Baelor and Maekar's children attended the same school they'd driven over together to talk with the children about being lawyers. Egg was wrapped around Sansa's leg as usual, as well as a half dozen other kids that were having a blast climbing in and out of the police cars.

"You're serious?" Baelor's disbelief was obvious and Maekar rolled his eyes. "She's the one that you took to dinner? The one that kissed you? Willingly?"

"Oh, do shut up," Maekar rolled his eyes and frowned deeply.

"I'm merely needling you, brother," Baelor chuckled. "She's beautiful. A red head, good choice."

"A mere coincidence I assure you," Maekar said, thinking of his brother's wife Jena who's hair was slightly brighter than Sansa's own. He'd never even had a passing attraction to Jena who was all bubbly personality and ginger faerie-like beauty, but where Sansa was concerned it was raw sex appeal, and complete and total attraction to every bit of her.

"I never thought otherwise," Baelor replied.

"Mmhmm."

"Egg seems to like her," Baelor continued undeterred.

"All of the boys do," Maekar assured his elder brother.

"That's more than half the battle then," he laughed and Maekar nodded. He watched as a tall golden-haired man in uniform said something to Sansa and she gave a nod. She leaned down to say something to Egg and in a flash his youngest son was scrambling into the driver's seat of a police car. Sansa leaned in, talking and pointing and then the lights came on, flashing red and blue in the schoolyard.

"Come, I'll introduce you," Maekar clapped his brother on the shoulder and they cut through the crowd side by side.

"Dad, look!" Egg beamed from the car. "I'm driving!"

"Gods save us," Maekar muttered and then smiled. "So long as you make sure that you don't end up in the back of one of those cars, we're all good."

"Good afternoon," Sansa approached then, coming to stand at his side. Though his fingers twitched with the urge to touch her, he understood that now was not the time or place to be affectionate so he simply smiled at her.

"Hello," Maekar greeted.

"I've heard a lot about you, I'm Baelor," he extended his hand and nodded to Maekar. "This one's older brother."

"Really? Wow, I would genuinely have not guessed that," she smiled as she shook Baelor's hand. "You two look nothing alike."

"I take after our father and Baelor takes after our Dornish mother," Maekar explained.

"I see," Sansa nodded. "Makes sense, I suppose. All your boys are blonde and Baelor's son, Valarr, has heterochromia as well."

"I forget how well you know the students," Maekar smiled.

"I love the students," Sansa said, explaining her situation to Baelor. "I grew up in a big family and most of my siblings are working on big families of their own. I guess I just love children in general."

"Works out well given this one has four that are absolutely wild," Baelor joked at his brother's expense, muttering something about his 'pull-out game being weak'. Maekar rolled his eyes, it wasn't like it hadn't been Dyanna that kept begging for a daughter, it wasn't his fault his wife had been very determined. Thankfully Sansa ignored the muttering and soldiered on.

"The boys are indeed a unique challenge," Sansa nodded. "But they are lovely."

"Whoa!!!" A chorus of cheers echoed as a bright red fire engine turned into the school parking lot, lights and sirens briefly coming on as they parked beside the police cars.

"Firemen!" Some of the kids called out, bouncing around and being here's by anxious teachers.

"That must be Dunk," Maekar noted as a massive strawberry-blonde haired man jumped down from the drivers seat, he was quickly mobbed by students.

"That is indeed Duncan 'the Tall'," Sansa laughed as the students ran off, leaving them in peace.

"So tell me, Sansa, what are your intent—"

"Don't you dare," Maekar cut off his brother who laughed softly. "Keep your nose out of it."

"Ooh, was I going to get the official big brother warning?" Sansa smiled. "After just one date? Oh, I feel like a serious threat now. What exactly did you tell your brother?" She turned to Maekar, amusement in her eyes. "All that and you didn't even reply to my text this morning."

"I didn't?" Maekar opened his messaging app and frowned, seeing the message from Sansa that came in at 8:13 this morning. He had completely missed her message in the chaos of the school run. "Fuck me."

"Language, brother," Baelor cautioned. "You're at a school."

"I said 'fuck me' not 'fuck these kids'," Maekar grumbled and Sansa's quiet laughter was smothered behind one of her hands. It was fortunate that she didn't mind that his default mood was surly.

"I assure you that he had only lovely things to say about you," Baelor smiled smoothly. "And when he's ready, have him bring you around for dinner to meet my wife Jena, I think you two would get along very well."

"Thank you," Sansa gave his brother a nod. "I look forward to meeting her."

"Sansa!" Aemon came running back over and he watched as Sansa crouched to meet his 8 year old son's eyes.

"What's happened?" Sansa asked.

"They said that the firemen wear masks because they can't breathe inside fires," Aemon said quickly. "That sounds scary."

"They do," she nodded. "Oxygen—you remember Miss. Shae teaching you about some of the elements right?" She asked and his son nodded. "Oxygen fuels fire and the smoke takes up all the space that oxygen used to. The masks are connected to oxygen tanks on their backs to help them breathe in the smoke."

"Oh," Aemon nodded.

"Come with me, let's see if Dunk will let you put on a mask," she stood and offered her hand, escorting Aemon back to the fire engine. Maekar watched her go, stunned at how natural she was with children—his children specifically. The boys took to her months ago when she'd started working at the school, she had a way of communicating with them that he almost envied. Their attachment would only grow deeper now that he intended on making her his girlfriend.

"Oh Maekar," Baelor clapped him heavily on the shoulder. "You are in big, big trouble."

"I am very well aware."

"So long as you know, brother," his brother chuckled. "So long as you know."

"Everybody have their wristbands on?" Sansa asked as they poured out of the car.

"Yes," the boys answered. Today they were visiting Summerhall Wildlife Park, something that the boys were very excited about. While she'd been to Maekar's house for several family dinners, this was their first big outing all together. So Sansa was also very excited for this adventure. She'd been offered the wristbands on a deal through work—a thank you discount for law enforcement and firefighters, and had, with Maekar's foreknowledge and permission, surprised the boys.

"Perfect," she said as Maekar grabbed the insulated backpack full of sandwiches, snacks and drinks from the back of his SUV and slung it over his shoulder. The park boasted a massive lawn with fountains and trees where they could picnic and they fully intended to do that later.

"Stay together," Maekar told the boys as they walked through the parking lot to the front gates. His hand found its way into hers, fingers tangling as they stepped onto the curb at the entrance. A quick security check later and they were inside.

"Whoa," Egg marveled at the large map that showed the layout and location of all of the animals. "It's huge."

"Second largest zoo in the realm," she said. "Only the one in Wintertown is bigger."

"Could we go?" Aemon asked.

"Maybe one day," Maekar replied and Sansa felt her heart warm. Maybe one day they'd all go, maybe her parents would want to meet them there and get to know the boys…she inwardly smiled, hopeful for the future.

"Come on boys," she brought herself back to the present. "Daeron you're in charge of the map, so grab one and set us a route."

"Okay!" He grabbed a map from the display and unfolded it, looking over the exhibit layout. "Predators first?"

"Lead the way," Maekar held her close as they walked behind the boys. She drank in every moment and detail, taking lots of photos to remember the day by. Their first adventure together. Hopefully their first of many.

"Oh, I love this song," Sansa drew up short, simultaneously stopping Maekar given that her hand was in his. Loud, live music poured from the local barbecue joint, dancing on the air on Main Street.

"Country, you like country music?" Her boyfriend chuckled.

"I'm Northern, of course I do," she smiled. "Come dance with me?"

"I haven't danced in decades."

"All the more reason to, Mae!" She tugged his hand and pulled him into the crowded bar-slash-restaurant. Weaving through the crowd they made it to the dance floor where she pulled him into her arms and lost herself to the song of romance and heartache. It was impulsive to be sure, but it was also amazing.

The band was incredible and she lost track of how long they moved together. Fast, slow, happy, sad, they just held each other close, lost in their own world.

"You know," he said as he twirled her back into his arms. "The boys are staying with Baelor and Jena tonight."

"Are they?" Sansa ran her hand up his chest, fingers wrapping around the back of his neck. "Mr. Targaryen are you trying to seduce me?"

"Trying to," he smiled as she melted into his embrace.

"Naughty," she laughed and danced away, forcing Maekar to chase her, which he did. It was incredible to see her hyper-controlled, very strictly ordered boyfriend actually allow himself to be free and dance for once; she made a mental note to do it more often.

She'd been seeing Maekar for nearly three moons now, the both of them coming to an unspoken agreement that they would take things slowly between them. He was a widower with four children and she spent a lot of time at his children's schools, working closely with them to focus their excess energy in a positive direction. Was it a conflict of interest? Not particularly because she didn't have any actual individual responsibility for the boys as a teacher would, but it was certainly not an uncomplicated situation.

So they had taken things slowly, seeing each other regularly for dinners or outings as his child care allowed—child care being Baelor and his wife Jena, who she hoped to meet soon. Sometimes their outings even included the boys and that was always fun too. They'd been to the zoo, taken the boys to a concert in the park, and a dozen other places. The boys loved exploring and experiencing new things, so it was a blast to take them out. She liked to think that her presence had changed things for the better—even Aerion had stopped fighting, channeling his energy though fencing and karate instead.

Through it all, her and Maekar had grown closer and closer, and now it seemed that he was finally taking that final step, having shipped his boys off to his brother for the night. How promising.

"Come here," Maekar wrapped his arms around her as the song switched to something pulsing and faster. "Sansa…" he buried his face in her neck, trailing kisses down the column of her throat.

"Hmm?" She leaned back against his solid frame, swaying with the music as his hands wandered her body.

"Tell me I can have you."

"You can have me."

"Tell me I can take you home."

"My place is closer."

"When?"

"Now," she rotated in his arms and pulled his lips down to hers, losing herself to his kiss and their swaying dance.

Her Maekar was a smart man, when a woman asked him to take her home, he didn't have to be asked twice. Within minutes they were making out in the parking lot like teenagers, her back pressed to the passenger side of his SUV and his hands groping her ass. Gods she loved his hands, they were big and so fucking perfect.

"Mae," she gasped as he kissed a path down her neck to her collarbone. "As much as I don't want to stop, if one of my coworkers sees I will never hear the end of it," she said and he groaned against her shoulder. "I know," she laughed.

"Alright," he reluctantly moved back and unlocked the car. "In," he opened her door, playfully smacking her ass as she climbed onto the leather seat. Soon he joined her and they were turning out onto the road when a thought struck her.

"Oh! Condoms, fuck," she muttered. "I don't have any…"

"Glove box," Maekar frowned, tensing his jaw. She opened the glove box and an unopened box fell to her feet. "A gift from my darling brother before our first date."

"You're joking!" she laughed as she picked up the box and tucked it into her handbag. "First date, what sort of girl does he think I am?—wait, Magnum XL size? Is that required?!"

"Yes. And it is more that he finds himself hilarious than anything else," Maekar assured her as he turned into her driveway—her place really was closer to downtown, and shut the car off. "I would never dare to presume—"

"Maekar if we aren't naked and fucking in the next three minutes I am going to handcuff you to the bed and have my way with you," she said simply and the only sound in the car was his seatbelt coming undone. Magnum XL size, good Gods she couldn't wait.

"I mean…was that supposed to be a threat? Or a promise?" he laughed as they exited the car and all but ran to her front door. Lock undone they stumbled into the foyer and she was immediately back in his arms, leaving him to kick the door shut. She'd already kicked out of her shoes and was shimmying the impossibly short short's she'd worn to dinner—Gods did he have a new reason to enjoy summer; watching her walk around in denim cutoffs was his new favorite hobby.

Plucking the condoms from her purse, they left a trail of clothing between the front door and her bedroom and then finally they were naked and falling onto the bed together.

"Gods your tits are perfect," he palmed her breasts, guiding on to his mouth where he sucked the jeweled peak.

"Yes—" she threaded her fingers into his hair, lost to sensation as he worshiped her body. "Please," she begged. "I really really don't need any foreplay…"

"Is that so?" he dropped a hand between her legs, a growl escaping his chest. "My my, how wet you are for me."

"Please," she repeated as he stroked her sensitive flesh.

"Let's see if I remember," he circled her clit with a confident finger and she nearly came out of her skin. "There we are…" he muttered almost to himself as he worked her.

"Mae—fuck!"

"I daresay that I am probably not going to last long enough to make you come on my cock, so please allow me to ensure that you receive at least some pleasure from me," he moved closer he renewed their kiss, unrelenting in his mission to bring her to climax. She wasn't lying when she'd told him that she didn't need any foreplay, she'd been keyed up since the parking lot and was more than ready to finally make love with him. Which is why it didn't surprise her that she came quickly, arching against him as she sobbed through her orgasm.

"Oh Gods," she panted against his lips.

"You are stunning when you come," he said softly, fingers traveling to her inner thigh.

"I want you inside me," she met his eyes, admiring the dark violet that had become in their intimate moment.

"I can arrange that," he reached for the box and quickly opened it, making quick work of sheathing himself in the latex. She shimmied up the bed and he followed, crawling over her to brace himself on his elbows as he settled into the cradle of her thighs. "Guide me?" he asked, tunneling his fingers into her hair. She couldn't stop herself from nibbling her lower lip as she took his thick length in hand and aligned him at her drenched opening. It was a good thing that she was so wet, before tonight Maekar had neglected to warn her that his cock was decidedly large—certainly thicker than anything she'd taken before, and it had ben a long time since she'd had sex.

"Oh—" she gasped, reaching from underneath his arms to grip his biceps as he slowly filled her. "Ffuuuuck—" she threw her head back into the pillows, the burning stretch of him sending electricity through her blood. Maekar was muttering something in what she thought was High Valyrian—Gods that was sexy, his forehead briefly dropping to her shoulder once he had filled her to bursting.

"Are you alright?"

"So good," she tried to catch her breath. "Big. Big-big."

"I promise, my darling, to make this up to you," he whispered as she wrapped her legs around his waist. "But it will be short lived."

"Mae…just fuck me, I don't care how long you last," she assured him and he lifted his head. "We have all night."

"We do," a crooked smile formed on his lips and in the next moment he began to move. Hips, uncertain at first, soon found their rhythm, driving her absolutely wild.

"F—fuuuck," she tilted her hips up towards him and now he was deep.

"Buggering fuck," he muttered, the tendons in his neck going tight. She released one of his arms, her fingers sliding between them to frantically strum her clit. "Gods, that's…that's it, make yourself come on my cock…fuck…"

"Maek—-oh fuck," she worked in tandem with him and when it crested she screamed out, her entire body consumed by ecstasy. Maekar pushed deep and followed her, the haggard groan that escaped his chest as he came dancing across her sensitive flesh like electricity. He sagged over her, careful not to rest his entire weight on her, but she didn't mind. She liked the feeling of him pressing her into the mattress. Absently she stroked her fingers through his blond hair, then the curve of his throat where she spotted a very small mole that she suddenly wanted to kiss.

"That…"

"Was incredible," she gave a breathless laugh. "I can't wait to do it again."

"Not a terrible disappointment then?" he chuckled as he carefully slipped from her body and rolled to his back beside her. Sansa was quick to shuffle closer, laying her head on his shoulder.

"Never. And next time, I get to be on top…" she traced the muscles of his abdomen.

"Is that so?"

"Mmhmm," she nodded with a laugh. "I need to ride it."

"Gods," he laughed, running a hand over his face to hide his smile. "I've created a monster."

"Nothing to be shy about now, Maekar, cock's out of the bag," she went up on her elbow beside him. "Making out on the sofa with you after the boys were in bed did not prepare me for…that."

"I did not realize a warning was required," he pulled her across his chest, her hair falling around them.

"Not anymore it isn't," she laughed.

"You are so beautiful," he tucked her hair behind her ear, then traced a line down her neck to her shoulder. "What in the realm are you doing here with me?"

"I live here," she mused with a smile.

"Good point," he finally smiled, his jaw at last relaxing.

"Let's clean up and eat ice cream naked in the kitchen," she briefly kissed him and then rolled away, heart light as she walked to the en suite. Maekar followed, and if they slipped into the shower together and started round two, well…only foolish woman would complain about getting absolutely railed from behind by Maekar Targaryen's massive cock. And she was no fool.

"Knock-knock," Maekar called out as he opened the front door of his brother's house, allowing himself and Sansa inside. After their incredible evening at Sansa's place, they'd cleaned up and popped by his house so he could change his clothing before going to Baelor and Jena's to pick up the boys.

"They're all out by the pool," Jena appeared in the kitchen doorway. "Tiring themselves out, I hope. I've just popped in to get more drinks."

"Jena this is Sansa," Maekar made the introductions. "Sansa, my good-sister Jena."

"I am so glad to finally meet you," Jena rushed forward to hug Sansa—he forgot to warn Sansa that Jena was a hugger, the two women smiling as they embraced.

"Me too," Sansa replied. "Sorry we're late," she added, not mentioning that they were late because they got caught up in the shower this morning…and at his place. And then again looking for ibuprofen for Sansa because he 'blew her back out', so to speak. He couldn't pretend that that comment didn't do wonders for his ego.

"No need, we're family and that's what families do. Maekar does the same for us when Baelor and I need to…well," Jena smirked. "Come come, relax out back. We have stuff to barbecue hot dogs for lunch, the kids are very excited." They followed Jena through to the backyard where Baelor was supervising from a chaise lounge while the kids swam and splashed around him. A chorus of 'hi dad' and 'hi Sansa' rang out but they all kept on playing. Jena dragged Sansa over to a pair of chairs in the shade so they could talk, so Maekar made his way to the chair beside Baelor's and stretched out comfortably.

"Did you have a nice evening, brother?" Baelor's smirk was knowing and so damned smug.

"I did," Maekar replied quietly.

"And a good morning too if your tardiness is any indication."

"Do you really want the details of my love life? A play by play of where we—" he dropped his voice even quieter. "Of where we fucked?"

"Gods no," Baelor laughed. "Still, it's been a while and I wasn't certain that you still had it in you. Hopefully you used the condoms I gave you, last thing you need right now is another child. You've only just gotten yours under control."

"I did. Trust that there were no complaints lodged, brother, don't worry. I did our Dornish ancestors proud."

"Good man," Baelor nodded. "The boys are very thrilled with having her around so much. They say she makes you nicer."

"Fucks sake," Maekar rolled his eyes.

"Oh please, you're a downright grumpy asshole on the best of days," Baelor laughed. "She softens you and that isn't a bad thing. No one is begrudging you your new-found happiness. In fact we're all very happy for you, especially Aemon, he adores Sansa. Although," a glance to where Jena and Sansa were laughing and gesticulating. "I think it is safe to say they've hit it off rather well, though we thought that would happen."

"Fortunate," Maekar commented.

"Especially if you plan to keep her around," Baelor hinted.

"I'm thirty-eight, not eighteen," Maekar scoffed. "I don't go into these things lightly."

"To be fair you didn't go into it lightly at eighteen either," Baelor countered. "I don't think there is a time in your life where you have ever been unserious."

"That's not true," Maekar argued. "Just last night I was unserious!"

"I don't need intimate details—"

"We went dancing," Maekar said and Baelor burst into laughter.

"You? Dancing? I call bullshit."

"We walked by that barbecue place downtown and it had live music, so we went in."

"Impulsive and dancing?! I hardly recognize you."

"Oh piss off," Maekar leaned back against the chair. "Asshole," he adding, making Baelor laugh again. Brothers, he inwardly thought, what an obnoxious breed.

"Great job guys, there we go," she helped the boys into Maekar's SUV, keeping a half an eye on the other students that were milling about. There were only a handful left now and it was almost time for her to return to the station and end her shift.

"You're coming to dinner, right?" Egg asked, smiling at her as he buckled himself in.

"I am," Sansa nodded. "Everyone buckled up?" she asked and was met with a chorus of 'yes'. "Lovely," she moved to the driver's window where Maekar was smiling.

"See you soon," he said softly as she leaned in to steal a quick kiss.

"Yes—," her radio beeped, sounding an alarm, and then one of her coworkers' frantic voice came through asking for help from anyone and everyone.

"I'm hit…" Gendry groaned.

"I have to go," she said to Maekar and ran back to her car, answering up the radio car. She spared him a final smile as she turned on the lights and sirens and sped towards where her coworker and friend was in danger. "Control-1, SRO Stark," she said on the radio. "ETA less than two." She was close, very close considering she hadn't left the school yet. That was fortunate, that could mean the difference between life and death.

"I'm hit…" came Gendry's shaking voice came again. "Need medical..." he added and she could hear the gunshots in the background. Turning off the highway she drove straight into the chaos of it, not giving it a second thought. She parked right beside Gendry to use her car as a shield—thank fuck School Resource Officers were given large SUVs to use, pulling a tourniquet from her belt as she exited the car.

"They've gone, I think," Gendry grimaced. "Black sedan."

"They're still there," she dropped beside him. "Lannister just arrived, he is dealing with them, he can't get to you but I could."

"Fucking hurts," he winced as she put the tourniquet in place and wrenched it tight. Shouting reached them and then the gunfire started again, loud and close. She called for more backup and asked about the ambulance as the glass on her patrol car car exploded as a bullet ripped through it, spraying them with shards.

"Stay here," she moved, crouching low, to try to see what was happening. She saw Lannister pinned down behind his car, making brief eye contact with him, they shared a nod. More sirens filled the air, more gunfire sounded, Lannister's front tires deflated, his engine halting and then starting to smoke, and then…pain…she stumbled back, falling to a knee. She looked down to see blood pouring from her chest, on the right side just above her name tape. "I'm…" a ricochet she absently thought.

"Sansa," Gendry came to her then, scooting across the pavement to catch her as she collapsed. "Fuck…stay with me."

"You're right…" she muttered. "Fucking hurts…it's cold."

"STAY WITH ME!" He yelled but she couldn't keep her eyes open anymore, slipping back into blissful darkness.

"Where is she?" Aerion asked, flopping into his usual chair at the dinner table. "She said she'd be here."

"I do not know," Maekar sighed, checking his phone for the hundredth time. The way she had torn away from the school earlier had cut through him, fear settling into his gut and cutting through his heart with a white hot pain that was familiar….and he hated it.

"Yeah. She promised—" Egg's voice was cut off when Maekar's phone rang, Sansa's photo showing up on the screen.

"Thank the Gods," he said as he answered the call, only to be met with an unfamiliar voice.

"Is this Maekar?" the man asked.

"It is," he swallowed, closing his eyes as he braced himself. Memories of another night, another phone call from another stranger.

"My name is Jaime Lannister, I work with Sansa. Unfortunately she's in the hospital. She's awake and asking for you," the man said and he let out a shuddering breath. "They wouldn't let her use her phone. Gods know why. They usually don't let visitors in at this hour but given the circumstances, you're alright to come."

"Is she…was she badly hurt?" he forced himself to ask and at this, all four boys shifted closer, eyes wide.

"She was shot," the man said. "Single hit. It went through her vest, which it shouldn't have done. Collapsed lung, some bleeding, she's been fixed up. Her and Gendry will both pull through."

"That is very good news," Maekar nodded. "We will come now, thank you for calling me," he ended the call with a heavy heart and a shaken soul. He'd almost lost her tonight, he could have lost her. He couldn't…couldn't do that again. "Stupid man," he muttered to himself as Daeron shut off the oven. Of all the women in Westeros he chose the woman who could be killed at any moment.

"Is she…?" Aemon softly asked. "Is Sansa okay?"

"It seems that Sansa was shot this afternoon," Maekar explained and the boys looked absolutely horrified. "She is alright now, the doctors have seen to her. Go and put your shoes on, boys, we're going to the hospital."

"Alright," they agreed, running from the room without argument. Once he was alone, Maekar deflated, lowering his elbows to the counter top and resting his head in his hands. He couldn't love someone and lose them again, he wouldn't survive. He hadn't given much though to the danger in her line of work—he stupidly thought she'd be safe at the school but he didn't even think about the rest of her job, but Sansa could be taken from him at any time. He and the boys could be left waiting for her to come home forever. It wasn't like Dyanna who had been stolen away by cancer, where he had time to prepare, time to come to terms with her illness. This was instantaneous, irrevocable; violent. This was…panic bubbled in his chest and he forced himself to take several breaths, even as the sounds of footsteps reached his ears and the boys reappeared, ready to go see Sansa.

"Dad?" Egg asked softly, tears on his cheeks.

"I'm coming, son," he tucked his phone back into his pocket and moved to grab his shoes and sweatshirt.

They piled into the car and buckled up, hitting the road with great urgency. He diverted only long enough to drive through a fast food restaurant, getting what he needed to feed the boys and himself, though he barely tasted it. Everything tasted like ash and the grim realization that the woman he was falling in love with was poised to be stolen from their lives forever at any given moment. His heart was in his throat as he pulled into the hospital parking lot, he wanted nothing more than to be with her but the idea of losing her was all-consuming.

"Stay together," he cautioned the boys as they piled out of the car, each of them carrying their dinner garbage to the bin outside of the hospital entrance. "Let's go," he ushered them inside only to be met with a waiting room full of uniformed people.

"Dunk," Egg rushed to wrap his arms around the legs of the massive firefighter that had come to career day at the school.

"Hello Egg," the large man laughed. "I reckon you're here to see Sergeant Sansa."

"We are! Is she okay?" Egg asked.

"Aye," Dunk patted Egg's shoulder. "A tough North-woman she is, right as rain in no time."

"Have you seen her?" Egg asked.

"I was there at the scene," Dunk replied. "And I have seen her tonight, she's alright, little one. Room 314. Go and see for yourself."

"I will!" Egg proclaimed and moved back to Maekar's side.

"Thank you," he said to the large man who gave a nod of acknowledgement. He escorted the boys away, following the elevator and signs to her assigned room.

"Sansa," Egg was running to her bedside the second the door opened, climbing up beside her.

"Hey buddy," she said weakly, grimacing as he jostled her shoulder and IV, but still helping him to settle on the bed. She looked up as Maekar ushered the other boys into the room. Daeron had a haunted sort of look in his eyes and her heart clenched for him. He'd told her once that he hated hospitals because his mom died in one, and yet here he bravely stood. "Hey guys, I'm sorry I didn't make it to dinner."

"Don't be ridiculous," Maekar came to her side, carefully leaning down to kiss her as Aemon made his move to climb upon the bed too.

"I'm sorry," she apologized softly, for the unspoken reason of them having to come to the hospital.

"You are well?" He asked.

"I suspect I'll be here a few days, but yes, I am well."

"When you're released you'll likely need help," Maekar reasoned. "You can stay with us if you like."

"Oh, that would be nice, thank you for offering."

"Of course," he nodded, though his expression was cool, strained. She frowned, realizing that he would be just as anti-hospital as Daeron.

"Sansa is coming to stay?" Aemon asked with a smile.

"Just while I recover, Bookworm," she told him. "I'm going to need strong men to help with heavy lifting."

"We'll help!" Egg nodded excitedly.

"Perfect, thank you," she smiled even though everything hurt. Maekar's hand wrapped around hers and gave a gentle squeeze, as if he understood her struggle. She looked up into his concerned eyes, squeezing his hand in return. They'd get through this, she had every confidence, and move onto better things.

"Easy," Maekar helped her out of the car as the boys piled out of the back seats. All of them had insisted on going with him to pick up Sansa when she was discharged, which made for a chaotic trip. In the end she'd spent a week in the hospital and the next week or so she'd be staying with them. She was still bruised and sore, but there was no more IV and no more drains so she was very happy.

Maekar frowned as he thought on how awful she'd looked in the bed the first night. He'd been terrified, he still was; the idea of suddenly losing her was slowly consuming his every waking thought.

"First order of business is a shower," Sansa laughed softly. "Gods I want to feel clean again."

"First order of business is water proof bandages over your remaining stitches, then you can shower," he gently corrected as they stepped inside.

"Spoilsport," she laughed as he helped her out of her jacket and hung it on the rack beside the door.

"Daeron take that up and set it on my bed please," Maekar instructed his eldest son who was carrying the bag packed with Sansa's clothes and necessities.

"Alright," Daeron nodded and loped up the stairs, Aerion at his back. Being that he had 4 children that didn't do well in close proximity, he did not have the luxury of a guest room so she would have to share his king sized bed for now. Not that they hadn't shared a bed before, but this time it wouldn't be for romantic purposes.

"Can we have pizza tonight to celebrate Sansa being home?" Egg asked and Maekar did his best not to outwardly grimace at his son's use of the word 'home'. His children had no way of knowing how deeply he was struggling with the panic in his stomach that didn't seem to want to go away and the ice-cold blood in his veins. He'd almost lost her, he wouldn't survive that, not again.

"Of course," he nodded. "Have Daeron use my phone to order on the app, have it delivered."

"Yes!" Egg and Aemon celebrated, running up the stairs after their brothers.

"Alone at last," Sansa smiled, gingerly wrapping her arms around his waist. "I've missed you."

"I'm sorry, it has been a difficult week for everyone," he replied, holding her close but being mindful of her injury.

"I know it wasn't easy for you and the boys, given your history, and I am very sorry for that," she said softly. "But I'm alright now, I promise."

"For which I am very grateful," he was powerless to resist when she went on her toes to kiss him. He was addicted to her in a way that terrified him, so he returned her kiss without hesitation, allowing himself to relax into the moment. He'd worry about the rest later.

"Egg, slow down," Maekar called out as his youngest raced ahead, desperate to be the first one to reach the ice cream shop. The walls had started to close in around Sansa so today they'd ventured into the town centre for dinner and a walk in the park. Daeron and Aerion had ducked into the comic books shop to spend some of their pocket money and Aemon was holding Sansa's opposite hand as they walked to their final stop. Aemon and Sansa had a close bond, she called him Bookworm and he told her all about the current stories he was reading on the children's e-reader he'd gotten on his nameday last year.

"He's excited," Sansa smiled, giving his hand a gentle squeeze.

"It's probably a mistake, buying them ice cream," he scoffed.

"Probably," she agreed as he opened the door to the ice cream shop and the boys rushed inside. "But you're a softy and are going to do it anyway," she kissed his cheek as she passed. She was right, of course she was. Ice creams in hand, they settled at a table in the shop's small rear courtyard to enjoy it.

"Sansa can I try yours?" Aemon, who had gotten plain chocolate for himself, asked.

"Of course," Sansa extended her cone with Cherry ice cream on it to him and he gave it a lick. Maekar watched as his son's eyes lit up.

"That's really good!"

"Want to trade?" Sansa offered without hesitation and Aemon eagerly nodded, handing her the chocolate ice cream he'd barely touched. Maekar felt his heart clench at the scene, at the realization that the boys were quickly becoming attached to her…that they could one day have to mourn her loss. He knew he was being aloof, for the life of him he couldn't find the words to communicate how he felt and his terror was festering. Twisting and burning in his chest. He was so torn, so pulled apart with stress and worry that he was losing sleep. She would go back home soon, which should help but still…he did not know what to do…

"Dad," Daeron put his stack of comics on the table. "Look, the new Kingslayer comic is out."

"I see," Maekar was grateful for the distraction from is musings and allowed his eldest to pull him into a conversation about his favorite fantasy series.

"Oh, I am so glad that you're finally here," she smiled as she opened her front door, going on her toes to kiss him. She'd been back at her house for a week now and already missed being with him and the boys all the time. Today they were going to take the boys to the summer carnival. "I finally feel human again and I am so happy to get out of the house."

"Sansa," Maekar grabbed her hands with his, pulling them away from his shoulders and set himself away from her. He looked as if he hadn't slept, his hair was a mess and he was in a wrinkled t-shirt and jeans.

"Oh," she frowned as he looked down at her, his expression unreadable. "Mae?"

"Sansa we need to talk," he flexed his jaw and briefly closed his eyes before stepping away from her.

"The boys aren't in the car, are they," her heart cracked.

"No."

“Oh.”

"I came to end this," he said quietly and her heart shattered.

"No…"

"I can't do this," he said softly, almost so quietly that she did not hear him. "I can't."

"You mean you won't."

"I can't, the risk is too high, its too much," he continued.

"I see," she stepped back, wrapping her arms around her midsection in an attempt to hold herself together.

"You were shot in the chest, you—"

"I know, I was there," she took a deep, shuddering breath. "But that is my job, my duty. I put myself in danger to protect others. Statistically speaking it is so highly unlikely to even happen—"

"But it did."

"Let alone happen again," she swallowed back tears and looked up at him. "Please…"

"I understand, but I….it's a lot. Your job, it's a lot."

"You can't ask me to give it up, Maekar," she sobbed, quickly wiping her eyes. "This is who I am, this is everything I've dedicated my life to."

"I am not asking you to give it up, that would be cruel," he reasoned. "I am simply stating that I cannot live with the every day thought that I could lose you. I've already lost so much—the boys and I have already lost too much…I am sorry, truly. This—us, needs to end."

"I see," she nodded, lips pressed together as fresh tears ran down her cheeks. She should have seen this coming, he'd been cold and withdrawn since the hospital but she'd written it off as stress. Apparently she'd been very wrong. She had deluded herself into thinking that the week she spent at his home had meant something more than him allowing guilt to force him to help her recover before shattering her delusions of happiness.

"Sansa—"

"I think you should go," she choked back another sob. "You don't want to lose another partner and, you know what, I can understand that. I can. But if you weren't ready to take risks then you shouldn't have made me fall in love with you," she stood and crossed to the front door, opening it wide for him to leave. She hadn't even had a chance to tell him that she loved him yet, and it was all just over now…

"Sansa, please. This has nothing to do with you—"

"It has everything to do with me. Every day I put my life on the line for the people of my community because I truly care for them. Children deserve to be safe, they should know that there is a police officer willing to fight for them in any way," she shook her head. "But I am more than a School Resource Officer, I am a police sergeant that has fought her way through systemic misogyny to be where she is, to finally be taken seriously. I understand that that is too much for you. You already lost Dyanna, and you're afraid. I get it. So please, just go. There's nothing left to say. Just...just fucking go."

He clenched his jaw once…twice…and then turned and walked away. She watched him go, her heart completely destroyed as he started his car and reversed out of her driveway. She shut the front door and sank into a heap on the floor to cry.

Stupid girl, stupid stupid girl, she thought as she cried. Stupid man.

Never again, she promised herself. No more.

Maekar grimaced as he stepped into the conference room at the school to find Aerion and Egg seated with an unfamiliar police officer in dark green.

"Thank you for coming," the officer stood but did not offer his hand, only glared at Maeker as he approached. Suddenly he felt like he was the little boy in trouble, which was ridiculous because this dark haired man was much younger than himself. "I'm Gendry Baratheon, the new school resource officer."

"New…?"

"Yes," Gendry nodded. "And I think we both know why I'm here, don't we?"

"Is she—"

"Not your business anymore, so let's focus on the task at hand," Gendry's eyes were ice cold and Maekar could only swallow back a lump of emotion. Not a day has gone by that he hasn't ached to see her, to speak with her. The boys barely spoke to him, spending most of their time at home in their rooms, and their behavior at school was worse than ever. He couldn't blame them for being angry with him, he was angry with himself too.

"What's happened?" He asked. "Fighting again?"

"These two came to blows with each other in the cafeteria," Gendry explained and Aerion lifted his head to showcase a budding black eye. Egg wasn't much better, his shirt was torn and lip split. "They've been suspended for the rest of the week. If they continue as they are you'll have to find them another school. This is now out of control."

"Gods," he ran his hand through his hair, tugging at the blond locks.

"Aerion said it was my fault that Sansa left!" Egg protested, slapping a hand on the table top and Maekar felt the words like a physical blow. "But she didn't leave dad sent her away!"

"She was probably sick of us anyway," Aerion shrugged. "I'm sick of us."

"Boys, you're dismissed. Go sit on the bench out front while I have a word with your father," Gendry instructed and both boys fled the room, not bothering to apologize to their father.

"I am sorry for them—"

"Evidence not in your favor, you still seem to be a smart man, so I'm sure you've figured out by now that all four of them are livid with you for how you've treated Sansa," Gendry tossed his notepad onto the table. "Them and most of Strom's End Sherrif's Department."

"Officer—"

"Deputy. And I'm not finished," Gendry crossed muscled arms over his chest. "It is cruel to have banished her from their lives after letting them get to attached. Letting her get attached to them. Absolutely cruel. Why? Because you're scared?"

"Her job—"

"It was my life she saved that day, not sure if she told you what happened. She drove into gunfire, parked right beside me and got a tourniquet onto my leg before I bled out. She stayed behind cover, it was a ricochet that hit her just right enough to penetrate her armored vest. She didn't even draw her gun out of its holster to engage them. It was a freak thing, wrong place and wrong time. But she never hesitated to risk her life for mine, because that's who she is, she's a selfless woman, a hero—though she'd never call herself that. And you…" Gendry shook his head. "I could punch you in the face for what you've done to her."

"I suppose it is pointless of me to ask that you understand my past, my hesitations."

"I understand and appreciate your past, but I cannot understand your hesitations. Was having her in your life—in your boys' lives, not reward enough to risk it? Would making memories with her—loving her for any length of time, not be incentive enough to try?" Gendry spoke and the words cut through Maekar's heart. The younger man picked up his things from the table. "If the Gods saw fit to give me a partner as wonderful as Sansa Stark, I'd risk everything for even a minute at her side. She loves you, Maekar, and she's miserable with it. And she deserves better than misery," and with that he left, leaving Maekar to dwell in his own misery alone in the conference room.

Blindly he exited the school and piled the boys into the car, taking them home where they immediately went to their rooms and slammed the doors. He didn't know who else to talk to, what to do, so he texted his older brother, asking to speak with him. He needed perspective, he heeded guidance…and he suspected he needed a firm kick to the head.

Sansa stared at her locker door for several minutes before she finally opened it, robotically pulling on her uniform and gear. Another day, another shift. From the moment she was medically cleared to return to work was all she did: work and sleep, or when sleep eluded her she laid there and stared at the wall. She spared a little time to eat but her routine was now work and sleep, that was it; what point was anything else? She'd sworn off men, she'd resigned from any commitments she'd had to the school (which had broken her heart all over again, she loved those students) and she closed herself off from anything that would hurt her.

"How's the chest?" Gendry asked as she exited the locker room. It was their usual greeting now, the two of them having bonded over their shared traumatic experience.

"Hollow. How's the leg?"

"Good as new," he chuckled walking beside her as she walked towards her patrol car. "I know you don't want to hear it—"

"You're right I don't," her throat and eyes burned as she exited the police station. "But you're going to tell me anyway, aren't you?"

"Aerion and Egg beat the shit out of each other in the cafeteria yesterday, arguing over you. Properly went at each other," he said. "All five of those Targaryens are a mess."

"They're not my problem anymore, Gendry, you know that."

"I know. I might've threatened to punch him in the face," he confessed and she gave a watery laugh.

"I understand why he did what he did. That's probably what makes this so awful is that I understand he's protecting himself and the boys, and I cannot really fault him for that. I just wish that he wasn't so afraid. I wish that I was worth the risk," she gave a small shrug and turned to get into her car. "We live and learn."

"Sansa," he reached out to cup her elbow to stop her. "Are you alright to work?"

"I'm fine, Gendry. Thank you," she moved away and sank into her car, starting the engine before looking back at her coworker. She gave him the best smile she could muster, "I'll see you out there."

"Yeah, alright," he nodded and stepped back so she could close her door. Piloting her car out of the secure lot, she flicked on the onboard radio and focused on work. She'd have time to cry later over her broken heart later, for now, work.

"Alright," Baelor said as he closed to the door to his home office. The boys were off with Baelor's kids under Jena's supervision, not that they required much with Daeron and Valarr around to entertain them. "Pray tell me what idiocy we are discussing today?"

"Sansa," Maekar crossed to the window, looking out over the garden.

"The part where you're in love with her? Or the part where you broke up with her shortly after she was shot saving another man's life because you panicked about losing her?" Baelor prompted, leaning against the front of his desk.

"You're a fucking nightmare," he glared at his older brother who only smugly smiled back. "You saw what I went through when I lost Dyanna, you saw what they boys went through, and you see how wild they've become as a result."

"I understand that losing Dyanna was difficult for you, I cannot imagine what you went through and I don't want to. Losing Jena would destroy me," Baelor began. "But what you did was cruel, Baelor. Horribly so. You dated her for months, you took her into your home to help with her immediate recovery, you let her get attached to the boys and vice-versa, and then you walked away. I dare say you led her on completely."

"I thought I could handle it…I thought that she was safe at the school," he sank into a wingback chair. "But then I almost lost her and—"

"And then you did lose her, because you left her."

"I was so fucking scared," he hung his head, tugging at his hair. "I couldn't breathe."

"And you did what was easiest and you ran. Imagine how she felt; you left her behind with nothing," Baelor moved to sit on the chair across from him, bracing his elbows on his knees. Baelor was always a calming and steady presence and Maekar had always turned to him when he needed advice and support, but even Baelor recognized that Maekar was the villain in this situation. Maekar went on to relay the details of his conversation with Deputy Gendry Baratheon that afternoon, Baelor listening intently until he was finished.

"The young man has several good points," Baelor agreed. "Even if you only have fifteen years like you had with Dyanna, or even if you have fifty, you will always have the memories of a life with her, maybe even more children to love. Is not having her in your life at all worth saving yourself from some possible future pain?"

"I…" Maekar lifted his head, meeting his brother's mismatched eyes.

"Because you look fucking miserable now."

"I am fucking miserable."

"Do you love her?" Baelor asked plainly.

"Yes," Maekar replied softly. "I do, very much."

"Then it is worth the risk," his brother said. "You're not a man who easily loves, Maekar, nor are you quick to show emotion. But watching you, seeing you with Sansa, you two have a very real, true connection."

"I'm scared," he repeated his earlier sentiment.

"It's okay to be scared, but go be scared with her," Baelor reasoned. "It will be a damned sight better than being scared and alone. And a shit load less miserable."

"Yeah," he took a deep breath. "Yeah, I—will you watch the boys for a few hours?"

"Of course," they stood in tandem, sharing a quick embrace. "Keep in touch."

"I will," Maekar dug into his pocket to produce his car keys. "I have to go. I have to see her," he rushed from the house and slid behind the wheel, tearing out of Baelor's driveway like a man possessed. He drove the familiar route to Sansa's house, ironically breaking more than his share of traffic laws, and soon was pulling in beside her low slung Audi Wagon in the driveway. He was out of the car in a shot, all but running up her steps to ring the doorbell. Seconds passed, then minutes, and just when he thought that she wasn't going to answer he heard the lock free and the door opened.

Oh Gods. She looked awful; tired and thin, her hair in a messy tangled ponytail and her long-sleeve shirt—one of his, was heavily wrinkled. Her eyes were red, cheeks stained with dried tears, and suddenly he very much wanted to burst into tears himself. He'd done this…he'd hurt her, he had to make it right. She didn't say anything, just stared at him with watery eyes and a blank look on her face.

"Can I come in?" he asked softly and after a brief pause she turned around and walked inside, leaving him to step inside and shut the door behind himself. The house once bright was now dim, a bit messy with dishes in the sink and her gun laying on the counter top with her badge and backpack.

"Say whatever it is you came to say quickly so I can go back to bed," she rasped, using the cuff of her long-sleeve shirt to wipe her nose.

"Back to bed? Sansa, its not yet five in the evening," he frowned, suddenly very worried over the state of her.

"Mmhmm."

"Did you even eat dinner?"

"I'm not hungry."

"You've lost weight."

"It doesn't matter."

"It does, you were already quite slender—"

"It doesn't matter, Maekar, not to you. You left, you don't get to come back and act like you care now."

"Sansa, I have always cared. My caring was not the problem, it was that I cared too much," he stepped closer but she shifted away.

"I don't believe you."

"I am so sorry that I ever made you doubt that I do not care for you," he began softly, his eyes never leaving hers. "I love you; I love you so deeply that the thought of losing you terrifies the absolute fucking shit out of me, Sansa. I Imagined a life without you at my side—where you're taken from me and I panicked. I never wanted to hurt you, and I will regret what I have done for the rest of my life because I realize now that I want to spend that life at your side. If you'll have me."

"How do I know that you're not going to just run out again? You hurt me—you bombastic fucking asshole, you broke my fucking heart and I don't know how to go back to a life without you and the boys in it!" she screamed.

"I won't," he stepped closer, encouraged when she didn't move away.

"I'm lost, I'm so fucking lost…Everything is so quiet and empty now," she sobbed wildly. "I took a demotion to leave the school—seeing the boys was so fucking hard. All they wanted was for me to come back home and I had to keep telling them that I couldn't because you didn't fucking want me anymore! You just walked away and took everything—"

"I am so sorry," he was battling back tears of his own now. Slowly he reached out and gently grabbed her upper arms—her reaction was instantaneous thanks to years of self-defense training and expertise. Her hands fisted in the front of his t-shirt holding him firmly in place. "Please," he whispered, preparing himself to be pushed away. To his surprise she just held him as she worked through her emotions.

"You hurt me," she glared up at him, tears streaming down her cheeks. "You shut me out and then you just abandoned me!"

"I did, Gods forgive me, I did. But I never will again," he continued. "I love you, I would rather be scared with you in my life than scared and alone."

"Why…" she closed her eyes tightly. "Why…"

"Why what?" he prompted when she broke off to silently cry. "Sansa," he smoothed his hands over her arms.

"Why was it so easy to leave me?" her voice was small, broken and it was then that he lost his own battle with emotions, tears breaking loose to fall down his face.

"It was one of the hardest and stupidest things I've ever done," he assured her. "But I promise you that if you give me a second chance, I will never ever hurt you again. I will spend our lives making it up to you, each and every day. I will beg for forgiveness on my knees if you ask, I will do anything to undo this mistake."

"Maekar," she finally opened her eyes, her gaze falling to the tears on his cheeks. "I…"

"I love you, Sansa. With everything that I am."  

"I don't want to be without you," she replied. "I feel like I can't breathe…"

"I love you," he repeated and she began to cry anew, rough, guttural sobs that shook her entire body. He was unsure of what to do, what else to say, but he was saved from his state of limbo when she used her grip on his shirt to pull his lips down to hers. He could taste the salt of her tears, the mint of her toothpaste, the warmth of her. Their kiss was desperate, fueled by pain and longing, both of them pouring everything they felt into it. He backed her up until she was pressed to the wall, trapping her against him. His hands burrowed under her baggy shirt, grateful that he was not impeded by panties or a bra. He did away with her shirt quickly, dropping it to the floor and returning to worshiping her body. He thought he'd never get to touch her again, to feel her and love her. He could sob with happiness.

"Take me to bed," she asked in between kisses. "Take me to bed and show me that you love me." He obeyed without question, heart racing with anticipation and joy. Lifting her by the backs of her thighs, she wrapped her long legs around him as he carried her back to her bedroom. He lowered her to the sheets and settled over her, unwilling to release her just yet. Their mouths tangled and devoured, teeth occasionally clashing in their desperate kisses. Her hands began to tug at the hem of his shirt and he moved away long enough to divest himself of his clothing, then was back over her, bracing on his elbows.

"Gods I've missed you," he groaned as their bodies met, flesh to flesh.

"Whose fault is that?" she countered as she reached between them to stroke his length.

"I was a fucking imbecile."

"Yes, you are," she gave a small smile as she aligned the head of him at her opening, notching him just inside. "But you're my fucking imbecile," her words broke off on a gasp as he pushed home, filling her completely.

"Always," he promised, tangling his hands in her hair, lips rejoining hers as he began a slow, deep pace. Sansa wrapped her arms and legs around him, clinging tightly to his frame as he moved. It was achingly slow, both of them lost to a tide of emotions that had long since pulled them under. "I love you," he promised between kisses, tracing his fingers across her cheek, past the fresh scar on her chest, and down to cup her breast, toying with the jeweled peak.

"Promise me forever," she whimpered.

"I promise," he replied without hesitation, the vow spoken against her lips. Her eyes lifted, locking on his.

"Say you'll never leave me again."

"Never, never again," he vowed.

"Mae—," she gasped as he sped his hips, snapping them hard and deep. "Oh Gods," her nails raked down his back, likely leaving marks that he'd wear like badges of fucking honor. He watched as her breathing hitched and then she was coming apart, his name escaping her like a prayer and she surrendered to her pleasure. Maekar followed her, lost to the way her body felt around his, and he poured everything he had into her until they were both replete, breathing heavily in the silence of the room.

"My darling," he cupped her cheek, smoothing his thumb across her cheekbone.

"Please don't hurt me again," she whispered.

"Never," he promised, dropping a lingering kiss on her swollen lips.

"I love you, Maekar," she ran her hands through his hair, hair that was a little long because he hadn't bothered to have it cut recently.

"I love you too," he was so overwhelmed with that love that he found himself battling back fresh tears. He loved her with a ferocity that bordered on obsession and he couldn't wait to spend the rest of their lives together, living and loving. Speaking of… "We should clean up. I know four feral children that will be very happy to see you."

"Okay," she smiled, eyes bright with happiness. "Should we get pizzas?"

"Good idea. I'll text my brother, we'll feed everyone," he said as they slowly parted and began cleaning themselves up. "Sansa?"

"Hmm?" she turned to look at him over her shoulder as she put her bra on.

"Pack a bag and stay with me tonight?"

"I'd love to," she smiled and got to work.

Sansa felt as if she was going to cry with happiness as Maekar pulled his SUV into the driveway at Baelor's house. Her backpack and overnight bag were in the back and on her lap was a very tall stack of pizza boxes and mozzarella stick boxes. It felt like a dream, being back in his SUV, back at his side, back with him. She was still guarded, cautious, but she had heard the truth in his words and seen the tears on his face as he apologized, as he begged her forgiveness. He had hurt her deeply, more than she'd ever been hurt before, and she wasn't sure that she would have ever recovered. Was she a fool to trust him again? Possibly, but she was giving him a second chance anyway. It seemed he had been just as tormented by their breakup as she was, but that was in the past now, they were determined to move forward together.

"Moment of truth," Maekar said as the front door open and Baelor appeared, the boys at his back.

"Your brother looks very smug," Sansa mused.

"Yes, well he might've given me quite the dressing down earlier today," Maekar admitted with a grimace. It always amused her how much he seemed to begrudge how much he loved and depended on his brother.

"Good, I'll go thank him then," she laughed, moving to get out of the car but Maekar caught her elbow.

"Kiss first," he leaned over the center console and she did the same, meeting his lips in a quick kiss.

"Later," she said when he tried to deepen their kiss.

"Tease," he laughed after her as she stepped out of the car, holding up the pizza boxes.

"Sansa!" Aemon was the first to break away from Baelor, running across the lawn to wrap his arms around her legs. The weight of the boxes was lifted and moved away and she turned to smile at Maekar who had taken the burden so she could return Aemon's hug.

"Hey, Bookworm," she crouched to his level, heart aching as she saw the tears in his eyes.

"I missed you," he said. "Deputy Gendry doesn't let me read late in the library…and Dad was really sad when you were gone."

"I'm sorry," she wrapped her arms around him, holding him tight. "I missed you too." A shove and a tackle had them sprawling to the grass, Egg landing on top of them with a grunt.

"Gods Egg," she heard Maekar's exasperated voice. Another bump and more weight as Aerion and Daeron joined the fray. Sansa felt the breath leave her lungs with a mighty 'whoosh'. "Right, let her up," Maekar's voice came closer and then the weight was moving away. "Feral beasts, the lot of you. In the house, Auntie Jena and Uncle Baelor are handing out plates and drinks."

"Thank you," she laughed as Maekar helped her to her feet, Aemon's hand sliding into hers as the other boys rushed ahead.

"I hope you got cheese!" Egg called out.

"Yeah, with extra anchovies, just for you—" Maekar rolled his eyes as they vanished into the house. Sansa held to Aemon and Maekar as they walked into the house, ready to celebrate as a family.

"Sansa," Baelor smiled at her in the kitchen.

"Thank you for talking sense into him," she said softly.

"He'd have gotten there on his own eventually," he replied. "I probably should have just kicked him in the head."

"That works too," Sansa laughed as Jena approached. She adored Baelor's bubbly pixie of a wife, she was a stark contrast to the steady, stoic personality of her husband. Sansa had bonded immediately with her when they'd met and she'd missed her deeply.

"Welcome back," Jena threw her arms around Sansa who returned her embrace. "I missed you."

"Glad to be back," Sansa replied. "I missed you too. Sorry I didn't return your calls and messages."

"I understand. You should have made him grovel more—"

"I heard that," Maekar protested from where he was being overrun by six Targaryen children who all wanted pizza, mozzarella sticks, and dipping sauce. "Little help?" he asked as Egg all but climbed his torso to get to the sauces.

"We'd better help him before he has an embolism burst," Baelor moved away, helping to wrangle the kids. Sansa looked on for a few moments, allowing herself to drink in every detail of the moment, of everyone's happiness, of everyone together. Her eyes moved back to her Maekar to find him watching her with a soft smile; a nod of his head and she was walking to join him. His arm went around her back as he kissed her forehead.

Home, she smiled. This was home.

"They're all in bed," Maekar sank onto the sofa beside her and she handed him a glass of Dornish wine that she'd nicked from the kitchen. The chaos of the day had come to a close and they were finally able to relax together. Tonight was a school night, which meant decent bedtimes and plenty of alone time for them; this had become their new normal, a lovely little routine that had formed over the past few weeks and she loved it.

"It is odd when the house is quiet," she snuggled to his side, mindful of her own glass of wine.

"It's heavenly," he sighed.

"Overwhelmed with the chaos and yet you're still willing to add more children into the mix," she teased.

"They are chaotic, they are messy and loud, but they are my children and I love them. Just as I would love any additional children we had," he assured her.

"We," her heart tripped at his wording. She had been careful the past few weeks, guarding her heart against anything that might happen, preparing for the worst but hoping for the best. She loved him very much, and she loved the boys as well, but she wanted to be as prepared as possible for having them ripped away again.

"We," he repeated. "If I'm going to have any more children, Sansa, it will be with you and only you. If you decide that you no longer wish to be with me, I won't be seeking out another partner. I don't want anyone else."

"I'm not going anywhere, Maekar," she said softly. "I've been…" she paused, considering her words carefully. "I've been offered the School Resource position back, but I told Gendry I needed time to decide. If I go back and then we…" she swallowed back tears.

"Sansa," he took their wine glasses and set them on the coffee table before turning to face her fully. "It will never happen again, I promise you that. Walking away from you was the single biggest mistake I've ever made in my life, and it is my biggest regret. Have you spent these past few weeks bracing for it to happen again?"

"I have," she admitted and she watched his shoulders sag. "I'm sorry—"

"No, I am so sorry," he pulled her into his arms, burying his face in her hair. "How you could even consider forgiving me after I was a complete bastard, I don't know."

"I love you," she said. "That's how."

"I will show you, I will prove it to you. Over and over," he promised softly. "Trust in me, Sansa, and I will never let you down again."

"I trust you," she said, knowing the words were true as she spoke them. "I do, I just…I just…I'm scared."

"I know," he said softly, pulling back to meet her gaze. "Come here," he guided her astride his lap, holding her thighs as she settled over him. "I am yours," he spoke the vow, cupping her cheeks as he did so.

"And you are mine," she smiled down at him.

"From this day, until the end of my days," he promised and she did her best to blink back tears but failed horribly. "I love you, Sansa Stark. And until such a time that I can call you 'Sansa Targaryen', you will have to accept that I am yours, wholly and completely." Sansa smiled down at him, hands cradling the back of his neck.

"From this day until the end of my days," she repeated softly, pushing his over-long blonde hair away from his forehead. "I love you."

"I love you more," he promised as she claimed his lips with hers. She was suddenly very grateful that she had opted for a dress today as it would give them easy access. She surrendered to his affection, following his lead. When she opened his trousers to free his cock she magically produced a condom from the pocket of her dress, he watched in rapt fascination as she rolled it down his length. She then shifted her panties aside and sank onto him with a ragged exhale, lowering her forehead to his. "I love you," he repeated, his hands moving up her back to cup her shoulder blades, fingers digging into her flesh.

"As I love you," she smiled, rocking against him.

"Always," he promised her.

"Always," Sansa repeated as she moved, riding him in a slow, deep rhythm. She leaned forward, had tunneling into his hair as she moved. To any who happened upon them it would look mostly innocent, as they were both fully clothed, which only served to add to their lustful encounter.

She loved the way he held her, strong arms keeping her close, as if he never wanted to let her go. She would gladly spend the rest of her life in his arms, safe and happy, and every night they could make love and maybe even make some children. For now…

"Gods," Maekar's hands fell to grip her ass, helping her to grind against him as she rode his cock. "Kiss me you damnable siren," he growled and she lowered her lips to his, kissing him deeply. It worked out well because she could feel her climax coming, building, building, then breaking free to sweep over her and consume her. Their kiss swallowed her sobs of pleasure and muffled Maekar's growl as he followed her over the edge. She made sure she held him deep, loving the way he came undone beneath her. Making Maekar lose control was her favorite past time.

"I look forward to doing this every day for the rest of our lives," he said softly, running his hands over her thighs.

"Me too," she cupped his bearded cheek.

"I love you."

"As I love you, now take me to bed."

"Sansa?" Maekar called out just before a knock came at the bathroom door. "Is everything alright? I let myself in when you didn't answer."

"Yeah, sorry," she cleared her throat, clearing her best to sound normal and not like she'd just been crashing out in real time. She quickly stashed the plastic stick, hiding it underneath a stack of hand towels behind the toilet and washed her hands. With a deep breath she opened the bathroom door to see her boyfriend looking at her with great concern.

"Gods you're pale, what's happened? Are you ill?"

"No, it's nothing—"

"Don't lie," he took her hand as she tried to pass, gently halting her. "Talk to me, please, we promised no secrets."

"Do you remember the night you came over and we got back together?" She started, hoping her voice and emotions held out.

"Of course," he nodded.

"We didn't—um, we didn't use a condom, did we?"

"I can't remember, though I don't think so—," he broke off, expression unreadable. "We're pregnant."

"Looks that way, yeah," she couldn't stop the bubble of nervous laughter that left her throat, nor could she stop the sob the followed.

"Are these happy tears or sad tears?" he pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly as she cried. He ran his fingers through her hair, knowing that it would comfort her and she buried her face in his sweater to surround herself with the scent of him. She felt so overwhelmed, she felt so much; fear, excitement, panic, joy. The full spectrum of emotions was consuming her. "Well, allow me to tell you my thoughts in the hopes that they may help you sort through yours; Sansa, I am absolutely elated," he said against the crown of her hair. "We already know that we're going to spend the rest of our lives together, Sansa, and I'm closing in on 40. So, forgive me but I cannot find fault in having children with you sooner rather than later."

"You don't feel trapped?" She muttered against the fabric of his sweater.

"Gods no! You can't trap the willing," he chuckled and she finally lifted her head. "No more tears, beautiful," he wiped her cheeks with his thumb.

"I stopped taking my pill when you…when we broke up…" she sighed. "I didn't even think to tell you or maybe I just forgot..."

"Then it makes that moment all the more beautiful, if our reunion has created such a miracle."

"I don't know how to be a mom—" she whispered and he burst out laughing.

"That is patently untrue and you know it," he shook his head. "My boys love you and the students were all over the moon to have you back at the school."

"I mean to babies," she couldn't help but smile.

"Well, as it happens I have vast experience with babies," he assured her. "But let's not get ahead of ourselves. First we'll schedule an appointment with your physician to confirm whatever home test you've taken. Alright?" He asked and she nodded. "And then if it's a yes, we'll start the process of you moving in together. You're with us more often than not anyway these days and the boys would love it. We're probably going to have to find a bigger house, come to think of it."

"And what about you?" she asked. "You said the boys will be happy but what about you."

"All I want is you, so yes I'll be very happy too."

"Okay," she sniffled and he leaned in to drop a kiss on her lips.

"Clean up, I'll get your bags in the car and then we can go," he smiled. "The boys are more than ready for a long weekend at the lake. They made it through the school year without getting arrested, they've earned it."

"Very true," she agreed, more than ready to go to the lake herself.

"When we get back we've got Aerion's first fencing tournament, something else to look forward to."

"Definitely," she agreed as they parted. Quickly washing her face she grabbed her backpack that had her gun and badge safely stored inside along with her handbag, she locked up the house.

Maeker and the boys were already inside the car, thank the Gods for third row seating, especially if the test is right and they were adding another Targaryen to the mix.

"Gods," she took a ragged breath as she walked to the passenger seat and slipped inside. Motherhood was a terrifying thought.

"Hi!" She was met with a chorus of greetings as she put her seatbelt on. "You guys excited?" She turned to look back at the boys, Daeron and Aerion in the middle row and Egg and Aemon in the back, all with the books, portable video games and whatnot for the long drive. All four nodded in tandem, big smiles in place.

She held Maekar's hand over the center console as he drove, taking them out of the city and deep into the mountains. It was amazing that within a two hour drive they could be back in nature, stowed away at the Targaryen family cabin that he and Baelor had purchased and maintained together. They coordinated trips, allowing one or both families with the addition of tents for the kids, to spend time on Summerhall Lake via private access and relaxing in the shade.

"We're here!" Egg bounced in the back row.

"Can't wait to go swimming," Aerion smiled.

"Going to sleep in the hammock for days," Daeron beamed. "Finals were exhausting."

"Alright," Maekar parked alongside a massive wooden log cabin and a stunning view of the late beyond. "Go, be free," he laughed as the boys flung open doors and climbed over seats to run onto the grass and to the pier.

"At least here they can be wild," she said as she watched. Aerion didn't hesitate, just threw himself into the lake in his clothes, and Egg hit a tire swing with unbridled energy.

"What do you think," Maekar came around the front of the car to wrap his arms around her. "Think I'd make an alright girl-dad?"

"Oh," she inhaled, looking up at him.

"Not sure if I can handle another boy," he chuckled. "Does blonde hair go grey? Asking for a friend."

"A girl would be nice," she agreed. "I don't know about four protective older brothers though, she'll never have a prom date."

"Good, she doesn't need to date until she's in her thirties, anyway," Maekar scoffed.

"You," she shook her head. "I love you."

"I love you too," he replied. "Now come and lay in the shade with me while the boys run themselves to exhaustion."

"Sounds like paradise."

"And then later when they're passed out and tucked into their beds, we can find our own bed and fuck ourselves into exhaustion."

"Absolutely idyllic," she melted against him as his lips met hers, happier in this moment than she'd ever been in her life.

Sometime in the future...

Sansa watched her husband, quietly observing as he shared a soft conversation with their daughter. Unlike her brothers, Daella Anne had Sansa's bright, fiery red hair. Paired with the signature Targaryen violet-blue eyes and she was a truly beautiful baby; though Sansa was obviously biased. Their baby, conceived in the moment that they'd come back together, surrendering to their love, was the light of their lives.

When she'd gone into labor several months ago, she'd been an anxious wreck but Maekar had been ever calm and collected, standing at her side whispering words of encouragement and love until their daughter finally arrived. She could not have asked for a better partner in life or otherwise. He had held true to his promise to never fail her again, each and every day he was the most incredible father and husband.

Husband, she smiled. Maekar had insisted that he make her his wife before she officially became a mother. So the Targaryens—Maekar and Baelor's alike, had all piled into their cars, not telling the kids where they were heading, and drove to King's Landing to elope. When they'd realized what was happening, the boys had been elated. Pair that with a few days on the beach with their cousins and adventures in the big city, they'd had a grand time. With that taken care of, they settled in as a family with relative ease, and when the time came for them to welcome their sister, the boys were ready for the challenge. Egg had been particularly excited to finally be able to call himself a 'big brother'.

One lucky day they happened to be driving by a house two doors down from Baelor and Jena's when the owners were putting up a 'for sale' sign and they'd immediately pulled over to talk with them. Thrilled with the idea of a police officer moving into the small, affluent neighborhood they homeowners had agreed to delay putting up the sign. With a bit of juggling and lot of hard work (and help moving), they moved into the monstrous house, adding two bedrooms and a home office into the mix. The extra space was very much needed, not to mention it also had an incredible backyard and pool, and the boys loved being able to run to their cousins' house and vice versa.

And so here she stood, watching Maekar talk to their daughter who had just woken up from her nap. He'd gone to retrieve her and Sansa was powerless to resist sneaking up the stairs behind him to watch.

"Mummy thinks she's being sneaky," Maekar said without looking away from Daella who giggled happily. "But we know all about Mummy's hovering."

"I can't help it," she stepped into the room.

"Daella was just telling me that she wanted a sister," Maekar smirked. "An ally against the army of brothers."

"Did she?" She laughed, taking Daella's tiny hand in hers. "How very brave of Daddy to want to manage six children."

"The boys are easy now," he reasoned. "With your help I can manage them—also, it doesn't hurt that I can threaten to have them arrested at any moment by their wicked stepmother."

"You're absurd," she laughed.

"I dare say you love that about me," he countered and she nodded.

"One of the many things I love about you, husband."

"I can only guess at the others," he smirked.

"I'll tell you later, some things aren't for little ears," she went on her toes to kiss him, a soft, lingering kiss that she felt in her toes. "Now come, boys are waiting," she nodded to the door.

"Ah yes, Baelor's nameday dinner," he carried Daella downstairs where she immediately waved her arms when she spotted Daeron, her current favorite big brother. Daeron stepped forward with a smile and took her, confident now in holding her. The boys had all been unsure of how to hold their baby sister at first, but soon they were all experts, even Egg could change a diaper now if he had to.

With his arms free, Maekar grabbed the stack of foil pans that were packed full of desserts that she and the younger boys had made. Everything from cupcakes to brownies, they'd had a blast making a mess. Sansa grabbed the backpack of Daella's necessities and they all made their way out the front door. It was incredibly handy to be able to walk to Baelor's house now; within a few short minutes Jena was opening the front door and immediately relieving Daeron of Daella's tiny form.

"My precious baby," Jena smiled, cuddling her niece. The boys ran into the house as Baelor appeared to take the trays from Maekar, setting them on the kitchen counter.

"Happy nameday," Sansa kissed her good brother on the cheek, then moved aside to set Daella's backpack onto the sideboard for later.

"Yes, happy nameday, you old fart," Maekar added as they stepped inside, embracing his older brother.

"Thank you," Baelor smiled.

"She's growing so fast," Jena placed a kiss onto Daella's fiery hair. "I never thought I'd have a niece, oh I just love her so much."

"Yes, well, if Mae has any say about it you'll have many more," Sansa said dryly.

"Already?" Jena gaped. "It's been six moons."

"The man is a machine," Sansa said as Maekar appeared in the kitchen with them.

"Talking about me again, my darling?" he smirked as he crossed to the fridge and grabbed a beer for himself and his brother, opening them both before extending a bottle to Baelor.

"Always," she replied, leaning back against the counter. "Just that you want another baby already."

"Of course I do," he said with confidence. "Maybe not four girls, but at least one more…maybe two."

"Maekar Targaryen, misanthrope and prolific breeder," Baelor quipped as he sipped his beer.

"Baelor Targaryen, smug know-it-all and professional pain in the ass," Maekar replied.

"Always, brother," Baelor smiled. "I live to make you squirm."

"You're a nightmare," Maekar glared and Baelor laughed in response. Sansa could only shake her head at the dynamic between the brothers; they loved each other deeply and it was easy for anyone to see. They chose to share that love through insults and annoying the Seven Hells out of each other—Baelor especially loved to rile up his grumpy brother and Sansa found it highly amusing. Her poor husband never knew a moments peace when his brother was around, but she knew he loved it.

"Knock it off you two or I will out you in your 'get-along' shirt," Jena warned with a smile, the expression never faltering as Daella 'bapped' her cheek and tried to grab her nose. Bless Jena, she took it all in stride; she knew the drill, no jewelry and no hair down, both of which could be too easily targeted by tiny grabby hands.

"Let them bicker," Sansa smirked, lowering her voice as she turned to her good-sister. "Baelor winds him up, stresses him out, then we go home and Mae takes it out on me…if you know what I mean," she ended with a wink for good measure. Jena laughed wildly, Daella squealing along with her. Sansa looked across the kitchen at her husband who had fixed her with a knowing glare and the slightest hint of a smirk that told her that she was in for it tonight.

She winked and blew him a kiss.

She couldn't fucking wait.

And a little bit futher...

Maekar couldn't, in recent memory, ever recall being this happy. At this current moment he was half-asleep on a double chaise lounge in the shade beside the lake, surrounded by his family. He was supervising and watching the boys act like feral beasts, taking turns throwing each other off the wooden dock that jutted out into the water. They'd been at it for ages, he was surprised they still had any energy left. On the chaise beside him, tucked into the padded area between his and his wife's legs, was the sleeping form of his first daughter, Daella—her tiny 3 year old body didn't quite have the energy reserves to keep up with her older brothers just yet. And beside him on his wife's chest was the very small, very blonde form of their two month old daughter Rhae Myriah.

Six children, he had six fucking children, he nearly chuckled. A few years ago he would have sooner slammed his testicles in a drawer than even think about having more children, now here he sat, happy as could be. He supposed that he had Sansa to thank for that, her calming and supportive influence had been the missing piece to the puzzle and the boys—and girls, flourished under her care.

They'd come out to the lake to very belatedly celebrate Sansa's thirtieth birthday, and if he had to guess, the other half of the Targaryen family tree would be along shortly to join them. Jena and Sansa were thick as thieves and Baelor lived to irritate him. With the help of a cheeky addition to the lake house, they were all able to venture here together, though the older boys usually chose to sleep outside in tents if the option was presented.

"Right on time," Sansa smiled at the sound of a car pulling in beside theirs.

"Buggering obnoxious bastard," Maekar muttered, earning him a chuckle from his wife. First Valarr sprinted passed them with a quick 'hello' and then Matarys, both running to join their cousins at the lake's edge.

"We stopped at the pizza place in town, it's the easiest thing to feed everyone tonight," Jena set a stack of boxes on the large wooden picnic table he and Baelor had built for the backyard. "Kids, come eat!" she called out and the herd came running up the lawn to descend on the pizza like starving locusts. Jena then carefully took Rhae from Sansa, choosing to always dote on her nieces before anything else.

"I stocked the fridge with drinks earlier, help yourselves," Sansa told them as she stood to plate them both food, all of the kids nodding in excitement. "One soda each, no more than that."

Once the addition to the house was complete, Sansa and Jena surprised their respective husbands by having a large overhang and outdoor kitchen—made up of brick and stainless steel, installed off the back of the house. To say they'd been surprised was a massive understatement; both Targaryen brothers were absolutely over the moon. Kids in a candy shop they were. A barbecue-slash-smoker for Maekar and an oven-stove combo for Baelor, this meant that they were able to cook and spend time with everyone out in the open. Also tucked into the brick work was a mini fridge with snacks and drinks for the kids, and beside it was a sleek beer and wine fridge that kept everything perfectly chilled for the adults. The lake house was the perfect haven, their palace on the shore. The addition of the kitchen had firmly cemented the lake house as their perfect getaway.

"Brother," a fresh beer appeared beside him as Baelor sank onto the chaise where Sansa had been sitting.

"Couldn't resist, could you?" he smirked as he took the beer.

"Never," Baelor laughed softly. "Any excuse to get away."

"Suppose it isn't really a party until we're all together," Maekar reasoned as Sansa handed both him and his brother plates loaded with pizza, then dropped a quick kiss on his lips. "Thank you, darling," he watched her go, admiring her ass and legs in the short sundress she wore. Gods, it was dresses like that that drove him to insanity and made him think of doing incredibly something wild—like having another baby.

"Worth the risk, isn't it?" Baelor asked and Maekar pulled his eyes from his wife to look at his brother.

"It is," he admitted. "Very much so."

"Told you so," Baelor clanked his beer bottle against his with a smugger-than-smug smile and took a long drink.

"Smug bastard," Maekar smiled and sipped his beer. The laughter of their combined children, the sight of their wives talking together, the beauty of the lake and the vacation home they'd built up as a family…

Yeah. Absolutely worth it.