emdvrcys

[emdvrcys]

I didn't hate it! I think it helped me learn a lot of the songs I wasn't already familiar with. I think I'd listen up to Lover some years ago and I had no clue that Folklore and Evermore existed until I saw the movie but I do think that Folklore would be my favorite, if I had to name a favorite. Run a treadmill for three hours? I'll pass on that but goodness, at least we know your heart is in great shape. If you're in London between the end of September and early November, come on out! Just a month? After two years of three hour treadmill running essentially? You should hibernate for a good decade, no one would judge you. I probably won't add anything to my plate because we're allegedly to start filming season 3 of HOTD soon after. Then, I'll be very exhausted and also might sleep for a month straight. Do you have any fun vacations planned in your head for when you're wrapped from tour?

Now I think I come across cooler than I already, but I promise behind the facade is the most painfully awkward person you'll ever meet. It's so nice that you think I'm cool though, that's made my life. Even if you were just chilling at home, that's busy. You have a life and I'm just happy you're doing stuff that brings you joy. I'd never judge you for saying off social media when you can. Thank you for watching the eras tour movie! Hopefully you didn't hate if if you were subjected to it six times. I'll be real, to prepare for the eras tour, I would run on a treadmill and perform all the songs for 3 hours straight just to get my stamina up and ensure I could do it. That's my secret, so feel free to do it, I'm just not so sure how fun it would be for you. Just let me know, I'll give you tickets to whatever show. Are you on the West End? That's so cool! I'll have to try and make a show! Honestly, after tour I'll probably sleep for like a month straight and then go straight back to writing. I can never stay away for too long. Do you have any plans after your play concludes? Or is it running for a long time so you don't have to worry about that right now?

[emdvrcys]

Emma watched Olivia’s eyes light up, the soft shimmer of the necklace reflected in her teary gaze. Every moment of planning, every detail—sourcing the metals from antique shops, collaborating with their jeweler friend—had been worth it just to see this reaction. The quiet anticipation of the night had finally given way to something real, something tangible, and Emma’s chest swelled with affection as Olivia admired the gift.

“Don’t cry, baby,” Emma whispered, their foreheads resting together as they gazed into her warm eyes. A tender grin tugged at Emma’s lips as they chuckled softly. “Looks like you’ll have to tell your other suitors you’re off the market,” they teased, fully aware that they’d both been committed to each other for some time now.

Breaking the moment, Emma reached for the second black box on the table. “Don’t worry, I didn’t forget about myself.” They opened the box to reveal a sleek gold pinky ring, engraved with a delicate “O.” Without hesitation, they slid it onto their finger, holding it up for Olivia to see. “Does this mean we’re ready to U-Haul now?” Emma teased with a playful glint in their eyes, always the one to lighten the mood.

Gently, Emma picked up the necklace, brushing Olivia’s hair away from her neck with one hand. “Here, let me put this on you,” they murmured, their fingers deftly fastening the clasp before stepping back to admire their work. The delicate gold chain rested perfectly against Olivia’s collarbone, complementing the rich green of her dress. Emma’s pride showed in their smile, a subtle gleam in their darkened eyes as they took in the sight before them.

“You look stunning,” Emma whispered, their arms slipping around Olivia’s waist, drawing her in. The air between them shifted, charged with an undeniable energy as Emma dipped their head, capturing Olivia’s lips in a slow, lingering kiss. It was intimate and unhurried, the kind of kiss that spoke volumes without words, pulling them closer until there was no space left between their bodies.

When Emma finally pulled away, their lips hovered just inches from Olivia’s, a smirk playing on their mouth. “But you’d look even better on me,” they murmured, their voice husky with desire as they held her gaze.

Olivia couldn’t help but notice the way Emma's eyes darkened with a certain kind of hunger, their gaze lingering a little longer than usual as they took in the sight of her in that green dress. She knew the effect it had on them—it was a quiet power she wielded, a subtle but undeniable pull that seemed to wrap around Emma the moment she stepped into view. As Emma made a teasing remark about what the color did to them, Olivia’s lips curved into a slow, knowing smile, a soft hum of contentment escaping her. But beneath the playfulness, Olivia could sense something else—a tension, a quiet storm gathering just below the surface. It was subtle, the way Emma’s thoughts seemed to drift, their mind momentarily wandering off in the middle of a shared glance or a soft touch. Olivia didn’t need words to pick up on it; she could feel the weight of it hanging in the air between them, like the delicate surface of a bubble on the verge of bursting. Her intuition, sharp as ever, told her there was more to this than just the logistics of the trip, the cooking, or the day’s events. There was something deeper in Emma’s mind, something stirring behind those quiet moments of distraction. Still, Olivia didn’t push. To not pressure them, she held back, not questioning or drawing attention to it, trusting that whatever was weighing on Emma’s heart, they would share it when the time felt right.

As Olivia looked at Emma, her breath caught in her throat. The weight of the moment pressed down on her chest in the most beautiful way, as if everything they'd been through, everything they were, had led to this single point in time. The golden light of the setting sun, the gentle sway of the boat beneath their feet, the soft flicker of candlelight—it all blurred around the edges, leaving only Emma in sharp focus. The sight of that tiny “e” charm hanging from the delicate gold chain made Olivia’s heart ache in a way she hadn’t expected. It wasn’t just the beauty of the necklace, though that was undeniable. It was the thought, the love, the care behind every decision that Emma had made to bring this evening to life. Olivia could feel the weight of their sincerity, the quiet plea for her to understand just how much she meant to them. And in that moment, Olivia did.

Olivia’s mouth fell open slightly, eyes widening as they darted between the delicate gold chain in the box and Emma’s nervous blue eyes. She was utterly stunned, her breath catching in her throat as the weight of what was happening began to sink in. “Emma…” she whispered, her voice thick with disbelief and affection. “You absolute nutter.” A soft chuckle escaped her lips, a sound that was part awe, part astonishment, and entirely Olivia. Slowly, she reached out, her fingers brushing lightly against Emma’s palm. She traced the familiar lines with a delicate touch, a gesture that was both grounding and intimate. Her gaze lifted again, meeting Emma’s with a softness. Olivia’s expression shifted, her brows knitting together as her face softened into something almost vulnerable—her big brown eyes now wide and full of emotion, carrying a look that could only be described as puppy-like. “You’re actually going to make me cry, you know that?”

The vulnerability in Emma’s voice spoke volumes. Her hand cupped Emma’s cheek, her thumb brushing tenderly against their skin. Olivia’s voice softened as she leaned in, pressing her forehead gently against Emma’s. “It means everything okay?” Her voice was soft and gentle before leaning back to look at them again. “You mean everything, to me. Of course I want this. Being your girlfriend? For real like? God even just saying it out loud is like.. How fucking cool is that?”

[emdvrcys]

Emma’s smirk deepened at Olivia’s playful response. “That’s a good girl,” they teased, reaching out to grab her, but Olivia had already danced out of reach. Chuckling to themselves, Emma returned to their task, the weight of their meticulously planned evening settling in. They didn’t have much time to get it right. This moment had been in the making for weeks, and tonight, everything needed to be perfect.

Dinner was simple but thoughtful—lemon herb-crusted salmon, a delicate cacio e pepe, and a bottle of limoncello they’d picked up just after arriving in the city. The deck setup proved more challenging, with the sea winds threatening to unravel their efforts, but Emma was determined. After some struggle, the table was set: plates, silverware, candles flickering gently in the breeze. In the center sat two small, black boxes, perfectly squared off. Emma’s hands felt clammy as they placed them, their heart racing at what was about to come.

As Emma was adding the finishing touches in the kitchen, Olivia’s voice drifted from behind them. Turning, Emma’s breath caught for a moment—Olivia looked stunning, the green dress clinging to her curves in all the right ways. “You know you torture me in that color,” Emma said with a low, appreciative growl, their eyes gleaming with admiration. They pulled her in for a lingering kiss, their hand resting on her lower back, savoring the moment.

“Come, let’s eat,” Emma murmured, taking Olivia’s hand and leading her out to the deck, where the table gleamed in the soft evening light. As they sat down, Emma noticed Olivia’s gaze shift to the small boxes on the table. Their heart skipped a beat.

“Don’t panic,” Emma said softly, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. "I had something made for you… for us." Their voice wavered slightly, their usual confidence faltering in the weight of the moment. Emma picked up the box meant for Olivia, taking a breath before continuing. "My friend’s a jeweler. I found these pieces in a few vintage shops, and he helped me create something special."

Opening the box, Emma revealed a delicate gold chain with a tiny “e” charm hanging from it. “I know it’s a bit… forward, and maybe a little patriarchal," Emma rambled, running a shaky hand through their hair, "but… I wanted it to mean something.” They paused, swallowing the nerves that had built up, their voice growing softer, more sincere.

“I had this whole speech planned, but honestly, I don’t need a script for this.” Emma’s blue eyes searched Olivia’s, their emotions laid bare. “I want to do this—with you. I want us to be real, to tell our family, our friends, that this is it for me. You’re it. And I want to be yours, your partner, your boyfriend, whatever you need me to be. I just want us.”

The vulnerability in Emma’s voice hung in the air, their heart wide open as they waited for Olivia's response, their fingers gently tracing her knuckles in a quiet plea for her to understand how much she meant to them.

As Olivia stood at the edge of the boat, wrapped in the warm glow of the setting sun, Emma’s words and the intensity of their kiss still lingered in her mind. The raw passion and the way Emma had held her so firmly made Olivia’s pulse race, her body humming with a blend of desire and deep affection. But even in the midst of all that fire, there was a softness—an unspoken understanding between them that went beyond just physical attraction. It was the way Emma looked at her, like she was something precious, something to be cherished. Olivia stayed there for a moment longer, her eyes fixed on the endless horizon, her thoughts swirling. 

Emma’s words echoed in her mind—You deserve to be romanced. It wasn’t something Olivia had ever thought about before. She’d never needed to be taken care of, never craved the grand gestures or the sweeping moments of passion. But here, with Emma, it was different. It wasn’t about needing to be pampered—it was about being seen. Being appreciated in a way that was deeper than words or actions, in a way that made her feel like the center of Emma’s world. “Hm if it’s by you, I suppose it can’t be that bad,” Liv hummed against their lips.

“Suppose I shouldn’t even bother with asking if you need or want help cause I take it you won’t let me huh?” She questioned, her eyebrow raising slightly. “Fine fine.. I’ll do what I’m told.” — With a gentle smirk, Olivia turned away from the view and walked slowly back toward the cabin. She could still feel the heat of Emma’s lips on hers, the intensity of their touch. - As she stepped inside the yacht, her gaze drifted over the cozy space they had made their own. Olivia reached for the dress she had packed for the trip, a soft sage green one. Catching her reflection in the small mirror by the bed, her fingers absentmindedly smoothing over the material. 

Stepping back outside, the evening air was warm against her skin, and the sight of Emma standing at the helm, their back to her as they prepared dinner, sent a warmth flooding through her. Olivia’s footsteps were light as she approached, her lips curving into a smile as she came closer. “God I was going to say something cringe worthy like ‘what’s cooking good looking’, but then I thought about it - and I’m pretty sure I almost vomited at the idea itself.”

[emdvrcys]

Emma followed Olivia to the edge of the boat, their gaze fixed on her as the setting sun bathed her in an orange glow. The sight of Olivia standing there, taking in the endless horizon, made Emma’s chest tighten with an overwhelming sense of love and possession. They approached quietly, their arms sliding around her waist from behind, pulling her close as the warmth of their bodies melded into one.

As Olivia turned in their arms, Emma could see the awe and softness in her eyes. The gentle curve of her lips, the way her breath hitched—everything about her made Emma’s pulse quicken. But then Olivia’s words broke through the quiet intimacy, and Emma’s brow furrowed slightly, their concerned smile touching the corners of their mouth.

"You didn’t have to do any of this, you know?"

Emma brushed a curl away from Olivia’s face, the pads of their fingers grazing her cheek as they locked eyes with her. "Why do you keep saying that, love?" Their voice was low with concern as their thumb traced along Olivia’s jawline. "I know I don’t have to. But the bare minimum?" Emma shook their head slowly, a tender smile playing on their lips. "That’s not enough for you. And it’s never going to be enough for me. I need to do this or this feeling will swallow me whole." The statement was a testament to just how much Emma felt for Olivia. The heaviness of their sentiments for Olivia needed to be expressed, needed to be grand and physical, or they would consume Emma entirely.

They tilted Olivia’s chin up gently, their voice growing more intense, more commanding. "You deserve to be romanced," Emma said, their eyes darkening with a heated promise, "so please, let me take care of you - i know you don't need me to, i know you're capable and independent," they brought their lips to her ear, "but don't you want it?" The last words fell from their lips with a slow, deliberate authority, in a tone barely above a whisper.

Before Olivia could respond, Emma pressed her firmly against the railing, their lips crashing into hers with a raw, searing passion. The kiss was certain and full of intensity—Emma’s hand gripping the small of her back, pulling her even closer as their bodies pressed together. It was the kind of kiss that left no room for doubt, no space for second-guessing. This was theirs, and Emma wanted Olivia to feel that in every fiber of her being.

When they finally pulled back, both of them breathless, Emma’s lips brushed teasingly against Olivia’s ear. Their voice was a low, commanding rumble, laced with sensual dominance. "I’m going to start dinner," Emma whispered, their breath hot against her skin. They pulled back just enough to meet Olivia’s eyes, a devilish grin curving their lips. "Go get dressed up for me."

Olivia stirred at the sound of Emma’s voice, her eyes fluttering open to find them standing over her, bathed in the soft, golden light of the late afternoon sun. There was a dreamlike quality to the moment, the gentle sway of the yacht beneath her and the faint hum of the sea stretching out endlessly around them. For a second, Olivia thought she might still be dreaming. A lazy, contented smile spread across her face. “Probably the best nap in some time,” she murmured, her voice still heavy with sleep. She could feel the warmth of Emma’s kiss lingering on her skin, and it sent a familiar flutter through her chest, the kind that always seemed to rise whenever Emma was near.

Olivia sat up slowly, stretching as she took in her surroundings. The horizon was endless, an expanse of blue and gold that felt like it belonged to just the two of them. She glanced around, realizing what Emma had done, and her heart swelled with love, with gratitude. Emma had taken them away from the world, to this little slice of heaven, where it was just the two of them and the sea. “Did you get us out here while I was sleeping?” Olivia asked, her voice soft with awe. She could see the quiet pride in Emma’s eyes, the way they stood there, still a little unsure, but so undeniably them. 

“You amaze me, you know that?” she whispered, her voice barely audible against the sound of the waves as she brought Emma’s face closer, pulling them in for a kiss. — As Olivia rose to her feet, she couldn’t help but let her mouth fall open in awe, the sight before her almost too beautiful to take in all at once. The horizon stretched out in a golden haze, where the sky kissed the sea in shades of soft pink and amber. The yacht gently bobbed on the water, the only sound the quiet lapping of the waves against the hull. Everything about the moment felt surreal, like stepping into a painting crafted by some divine hand. 

“Fucking hell...” Olivia breathed, her voice a mixture of astonishment and admiration. She turned to look at Emma, her eyes wide, a smile tugging at her lips. “I mean, I knew you could manage a boat, but this... this whole thing? You’re full of surprises, aren’t you?” Her voice carried that familiar Mancunian lilt, but beneath the teasing was a layer of genuine awe. Her fingers gently trailed along the railing as she walked toward the edge of the yacht, staring out at the endless horizon. The colors of the setting sun reflected off the water, casting a shimmering golden path that seemed to stretch toward infinity. For a moment, Olivia just stood there, taking it all in, the beauty of the world.

She turned back to Emma, her heart full, her expression softening as she took a few steps closer. “You didn’t have to do any of this, you know?” Olivia’s voice was quieter now, more intimate, as though the vastness of the sea had wrapped around them.

[emdvrcys]

very much so, life has been too good to me lately. i have to soak it all in before jumping back into a play or other project because my life just becomes all consumed by them. i've seen some paddleboarding goers around the st katharine docks, we should check those out when you're free. i know they have beginner classes, so perhaps we won't be the only ones humbled. how hard can it be though, right? just don't get any ideas in that head of yours about pushing the other off, yeah? i'm always free for a beer, you know that. brat summer might winding down matt but i've been informed that demure autumn is just around the corner, so we've got time to catch up with the kids.

portofino, greece, a brat summer—had to Google the term because i’m not fluent in gen z either—and a play coming up? darling, you’re living quite the dream. i’m not even sure i could keep up with that whirlwind. you’ve been hopping from one picturesque spot to the next while i’ve been busy making a fool of myself on portuguese beaches. if you’re serious about this paddleboarding comedy show, i’m so in. we’ll give the sun something to really laugh about. i can already picture the lifeguards watching us, torn between saving us and just letting us provide the entertainment. it’ll be less of an athletic feat and more of a testament to our determination—and our questionable balance. but at least we’ll go down with style. and hey, if we’re going to make fools of ourselves, at least we’ll have each other for company. seriously, we do need to catch up soon. pints soon, yeah? let’s make it happen. the brat summer might be winding down, but we’ve still got some mischief to cause. 

[emdvrcys]

Emma felt a familiar warmth bloom in their chest as Olivia’s words sank in. There was something about the way Olivia looked at them, the way her soft gaze made everything else in the world fall away, that made Emma feel like the luckiest person alive. They had navigated this love—carefully, hesitantly at times—but now that they were here, basking in the light of it, nothing had ever felt more right.

They wrapped up their brunch slowly, finishing the last bites of dessert and sipping the last of their drinks, all the while soaking in each other’s presence. Afterward, they wandered back to the small docked yacht they were calling home for the next few days. Emma held Olivia in their arms as they settled in for a long afternoon nap, the gentle rocking of the boat lulling them into a peaceful sleep. Emma couldn’t help but watch her drift off, Olivia’s breathing soft and steady against their chest.

Hours passed, and while Olivia still slept, Emma slipped out of bed, quiet as a whisper. Their boating skills, long unused but never forgotten, stirred to life as they moved around the controls. Emma had been around boats since they were young, their father being an avid boater who had insisted they get their ICC license as soon as they could. Still, it had been years, and a small wave of anxiety washed over them as they carefully maneuvered the yacht out of the harbor. The soft hum of the engine and the sound of the water beneath the hull filled the air as they navigated a few miles off the coast, the horizon stretching out into endless blue.

By the time they lowered the anchor, the afternoon sun was casting a golden glow over the sea. Emma took a breath, feeling a surge of quiet pride in the smoothness of their movements, and as they turned around, they caught sight of Olivia, who had just woken up, her eyes still heavy with sleep. A smile tugged at Emma's lips.

"Hey, beautiful," Emma called softly, crossing the short distance between them. They pressed a tender kiss to Olivia’s temple, their voice filled with warmth. "How was your nap?"

As Emma’s words lingered in the air, Olivia felt her heart ache with affection so deep it nearly overwhelmed her. The way Emma looked at her, the tenderness in their touch, in their voice—it was enough to make her feel as though the world had shifted, narrowed down to just the two of them. Olivia's breath hitched slightly as Emma cradled her face, their thumb grazing her cheek in the most delicate, reverent way. She closed her eyes for a brief moment, letting herself feel the weight of everything that had passed between them. It was true, they hadn’t just fallen into this effortlessly; they had navigated their way here, through the uncertainty and the fear of what might happen if they crossed the line from friendship to something more. But now, looking into Emma’s tear-bright eyes, Olivia knew they had made the right choice. Every struggle, every doubt, had been worth it for this.

Opening her eyes again, Olivia met Emma’s gaze with a softness that mirrored the depth of her sentiment. She placed her hand over Emma’s, still resting against her cheek, and leaned into their touch, as if grounding herself in the moment, in the truth of their connection. “God, you have no idea how much I love hearing that,” Olivia whispered, her voice trembling slightly, a reflection of the emotions swirling inside her. Her hand tightened slightly around Emma’s, her thumb tracing the back of their hand in slow, soothing circles. “Everything just makes sense, you know? Like we were always meant to end up here. Even if we had to take the long way, it brought us to this moment, and I wouldn’t change a single thing.”

Olivia’s hand moved to gently cup the side of Emma’s face, mirroring their earlier gesture. Her thumb brushed over Emma’s lips with the same tenderness Emma had shown her, as if trying to pour every ounce of love she felt into that single touch. Olivia’s gentle laughter rang out, bright, her thick Mancunian accent adding a rich, melodic tone to her words. She looked at Emma with a playful sparkle in her eyes, her smile wide and genuine. “I think I might have to start recommending falling for your best friend to everyone I know,” she said, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm. “Because, honestly, it’s bloody brilliant.” Her eyes softened as she gazed at Emma, the warmth of her feelings evident in every word, every glance.

[emdvrcys]

Emma’s gaze lingered on Olivia as she finished the last bite of tiramisu from the spoon, their eyes tracing the delicate movement of her lips. A teasing grin played on Emma’s face, but beneath it was a tenderness they couldn’t hide. As Olivia spoke, her voice soft and full of warmth, Emma leaned in, resting their chin in the palm of their hand, savoring every word that fell from her lips, every smile that lit up her face.

You don’t just dive into romance with your best friend and expect everything to fall into place like some fairytale. Emma nodded slowly, feeling the weight of that truth. There had been a time when they weren’t sure if this could work, if their hearts could sync as effortlessly as their friendship had. But sitting here now, with the warmth of Olivia’s touch against their knuckles, it felt like their lives had finally fallen into place. It was as if fate had been waiting, biding its time before allowing them this kind of love.

Emma’s heart swelled with the quiet confession Olivia had made, and without thinking, they brought her hand to their lips again, this time kissing it more reverently, as if trying to convey the depth of their gratitude through a single touch. “It’s always been effortless with you,” Emma whispered, their voice low and filled with emotion. “I still remember the day we met, and it was like...”

They glanced away for a moment, the memory tugging at their heart, before their gaze found Olivia’s again, more intense now, brimming with unspoken affection. “I spent so much of my life feeling like I didn’t belong anywhere—like I was always on the outside, never quite fitting in, always searching for something or someone who understood me. I felt like a wanderer… until you.”

Tears brimmed in Emma’s blue eyes, their voice trembling with the weight of everything they hadn’t said until now. “And every single day that I get to come home to you—” Emma’s hand reached across the small café table, fingertips brushing Olivia’s cheek before cradling her face gently, “—every part of me, my body, my soul… finally rests. I’ve never known peace like this before, not until you.”

Their thumb brushed softly over Olivia’s cheekbone, and for a moment, the world seemed to still around them, the gentle hum of the sea and the soft breeze only serving as a backdrop to the profound connection they shared. Emma’s voice softened as they whispered, their faces inches from each other, "You've always felt like coming home."

Olivia smiled softly, leaning in to take the bite Emma offered, her eyes never leaving theirs. The tiramisu was sweet, decadent, but it wasn’t the dessert that had Olivia’s heart racing. It was the way Emma looked at her, the way she felt so effortlessly woven into each moment they shared. As the flavors of the dessert melted on her tongue, Olivia’s thoughts drifted to all the moments they had spent together—their laughter, the whispered conversations late at night, the way Emma held her as if she was something precious. 

Olivia licked the last traces of tiramisu from her bottom lip, savoring the sweetness before leaning back in her seat, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint as she watched Emma. A slow, teasing smile curved on her lips. "You really are something else, you know that?" With a subtle, almost unconscious gesture, she swept her hair over her shoulder, her gaze never leaving Emma. There was a softness in her eyes, something deeper that went beyond the playful banter they often shared. It was the kind of look that spoke volumes about the quiet moments between them—the way their connection had grown so naturally, so effortlessly, despite the uncertainty that had once lingered in the air.

Olivia exhaled, her voice dropping to something more vulnerable, more intimate. “I don’t know,” she started, her smile fading into something more thoughtful. “I know none of this is supposed to be easy. You don’t just dive into romance with your best friend and expect everything to fall into place like some fairytale.” She paused, her gaze softening as she searched Emma’s eyes, as if trying to find the words for everything her heart was feeling. “But it kind of feels like that, doesn’t it? Like… everything just makes sense when it’s you. Like it was always meant to be this way.”

Her voice caught slightly, and Olivia let out a small laugh, biting her lip as she looked down for a moment. “Maybe I’m just babbling. Or maybe it’s the wine talking,” she added with a playful shrug. Taking a breath, Olivia leaned forward slightly, her fingers brushing gently against Emma’s hand. Her voice softened,  “I guess what I’m trying to say is... being with you feels like the easiest thing in the world.” Her eyes searched Emma’s, hoping her words could somehow capture the depth of her feelings, the way she felt anchored by Emma’s presence. With a soft  smile, Olivia added, “And I wouldn’t trade this for anything.”

[emdvrcys]

Emma raised a hand and waved the waiter over with a smile, their voice soft and fluid as they ordered, “un tiramisù, per favore,” in smooth Italian. As they leaned back, their gaze found Olivia once more, that breathtaking smile still lingering. Watching Olivia now, her beauty magnified in the glow of the late morning sun, Emma felt a rush of warmth spread through their chest.

They had been so caught up in their own worries before—about labels, about defining their relationship. But sitting here now, looking at Olivia’s soft blush, Emma knew none of that mattered. Their life together was unfolding in the most natural way, piece by piece, with each moment wrapped in a quiet bliss. Waking up beside Olivia, feeling the comfort of her head on their chest at night, seeing her wander around in Emma’s shirts as though they were her own—it was the kind of domestic sweetness that Emma had never realized could feel so perfect.

Gently, Emma reached for Olivia’s hand, their fingers lightly brushing against her skin as they brought her hand to their lips, pressing a tender kiss to her knuckles. Public displays of affection had once made Emma hesitate in fear of a tabloid or gossip column spreading rumors about their relationship before they could even figure it out, but now? There was no more worry. No more need to hide. Emma’s feelings for Olivia were too beautiful, too consuming to keep tucked away, and the idea of someone catching them in these moments of quiet love seemed unimportant and trivial. Sure, the press would have a field day but then again, when did they not?

Just as they finished kissing Olivia’s hand, the dessert arrived. Emma, still grinning, carefully spooned a bite of the tiramisu and held it up. “My love, have this first bite,” they insisted, their eyes sparkling with a playful glint.

Olivia felt her heart stir as Em spoke, their words weaving themselves into the soft morning air. Sitting across from her, in the golden light of Portofino, was the person who had, without a doubt, become her safe harbor. The playful lilt in Em's voice, the way their eyes lingered on her as though she was a painting to be savored—these small moments filled Olivia with a warmth she couldn't put into words. — With a playful pout, Olivia let out a soft sigh, her eyes twinkling as she leaned into Emma's compliment. “You’re thanking me?" she teased, her voice light but laced with affection. "You whisk me away to this dream, and you think I’m the one who deserves the thanks? You must be out of your mind, darling." Her tone softened, a touch of sincerity slipping through as she gently squeezed Emma’s hand. "I should be the one thanking you, you know that, right?” As their fingers met, Olivia felt that familiar electric spark, the kind of feeling that had woven itself into every corner of her being since they had started this journey together.

In that moment, Olivia could see the reflection of their shared adventures in Em’s eyes—the late nights spent talking, the laughter that echoed in the spaces between them, the silences that had never once felt empty. Here they were, in this secluded paradise, and yet it wasn’t the beauty of Portofino that took her breath away. It was the way Em looked at her, as though she was the only thing that mattered in the world. The love in their gaze was a warmth she could feel deep in her bones, the kind of love that felt like home. Olivia smiled, a soft blush creeping across her cheeks. “So thank you, for bringing me here,” she whispered, her voice barely louder than the sound of the waves lapping against the dock. “I don’t think I could ever get tired of this view,” she added with a playful glint in her eyes, her gaze locked on Em, making it clear she wasn’t just talking about the scenery.

As Em mentioned dessert, Olivia laughed softly, her heart light. “Honestly, being here with you feels decadent enough. But that being said.. You know I’m weak when it comes to Tiramisu.” Her eyes softened as she held Em’s gaze a moment longer. She had always known there was something special about them, but here, in this sun-drenched café by the sea, Olivia felt that admiration solidify in a way that was undeniable. Every detail of this moment—the breeze, the sound of the harbor, Em’s touch—was perfect.

[emdvrcys]

oh, you’ve absolutely hit the nail on the head. the sun has some sort of radar for us, i swear. the moment we step out, it’s like it says, "ah, fresh brit, time to roast!" i can practically feel the burn just thinking about it. paddleboarding we should try, i'll attempt again but only if you come along for the ride. imagine—us, flailing about, trying to stay balanced while the waves have other plans. i mean, it’d be more of a comedy show than a sport, but at least we’d be in good company. that sounds wonderful. i've been rehearsing for a play, due to start in late september. took a bit of a break, though, and ventured off to portofino with liv. not too long before that we did greece, so it has been an eventful summer. someone asked me not too long ago if i was having a "brat" summer and i didn't understand the reference until someone in gen-z informed me of the reference. so apparently, yes, i am quite enjoying my brat summer escapades. we should catch up soon though, grab a few pints.

oh, darling, you're speaking my language. we must give the sun its due, but it seems to have a knack for singling out us brits, doesn't it? step outside for a mere moment and bam—suddenly we're all lobster-red. spf 50? more like a polite suggestion to that bloody sun the moment it catches sight of us. paddleboarding, you say? i'd happily fork out a pretty penny to witness that—i promise, i'd be right there in the water alongside you. balancing acts are reserved for gymnasts and tightrope walkers, not us mere mortals attempting to blend in with nature. we're more in tune with the water, truth be told, considering it's where we find ourselves most of the time. as for myself, well, still pondering why i thought august in portugal was a stroke of genius. beyond that, i've been feigning busyness, when in reality, i've been gallivanting around london with bobby, awaiting for my next project to kick venture. now, do tell, what's the latest in your realm? some escapades afoot, or are you opting for a spell of tranquility?

[emdvrcys]

you're absolutely right - but when you're an actor, having such a serious, pressing face all the time can become a challenge, especially for the director who has told you five times over to "stop letting your face fall flat." thankfully, it's all helpful critique for the sake of the art. I used to share a dog with my ex, but didn't get her in the divorce. it was for the best, though. i've been way too busy to manage a pet by myself. i love them, though. who knows, maybe i'll strike gold and can retire and have enough time to have six dogs. that's the dream.

There's a certain awe that people take inspiration from the things we do. That's something I've never quite come to terms with fully like. But then I remember all the musicians who have spoken to my soul and it makes sense. It's nice to be in that conversation and if we're able to help people spark their creativity, we must be doing something right. There's not a soul on earth who claimed to want to be a snail. They're tragic creatures the more ya think on it. Though I suppose om lucky they didn't draw me as something worse. Ah, that's normal like. I think people see humans in their natural state and just assume there's something wrong if we're not happy all the time. Happens to the best of us. Do you have any dogs? They're truly the best kind of animal. Though it's an awful shame when they actually are of the anxious variety. Thanks very much. That's a nice thing to hear. Besides, the ability to fly and turn your head 180? That's like a superpower. I'm all om board for that.

[emdvrcys]

i am highly suspicious the greatest superstar there ever was is anything close to lame. but, i'll let you think i believe it. i was busy- sort of. i just am not on social media unless i'm posting something dumb on instagram so i wasn't even aware that you were in london until it was too late. however, i did watch the eras tour movie about six times with my little cousins and don't know how you do it. give me your workout routine, honestly. i might actually take you up on that offer. i'd love to see the concert in person. for work, i'm just doing a little local play in london. it's cool, theater is where i started so i'm excited to be back to my roots, y'know. whats there for you after the tour ends?

You're right about that. Sometimes I really have to check the calander, just to be sure I'm on track with everything. Two years passed by so quick, I really don't want it to end yet, but the end is near I fear. You can always count on me to be a fall lover. It has always been mu favourite time of the year and if anything, I'm just happy you're I'm the same boat as me in regards to it. Right? You understand perfectly. There's nothing like climbing into a warm bed at the end of the night on a chilly day either. I'll try it and give you my verdict. Though I like caramel apples, so I have faith it'll be good. Please, I'm so lame. I think the only people who think I'm cool are the ones that don't know me well. Don't worry, we'll fix thst and you'll realise I'm a weirdo. Hey, you were probably busy, I get. If you're in America anytime soon, I'm still have a few. I finish properly in December, but I assume you're a busy person too. What are you currently doing work wise?

[emdvrcys]

The sun cast a warm, golden glow over Portofino, wrapping the picturesque town in a soft embrace as the morning unfolded. Em sat across from Olivia at a charming little café by the harbor, the tranquil waters reflecting the vibrant colors of the buildings behind them. The linen shirt Em wore fluttered slightly in the gentle breeze, and their sunglasses rested casually on the edge of their nose, allowing their eyes to take in every detail of Olivia’s radiant face. The journey to this secluded paradise had been long—planes, trains, and a ferry ride—but the moment they arrived, every ounce of exhaustion evaporated. Their Airbnb, a small, docked yacht nestled in the marina, was nothing short of a dream. The thought of waking up beside Olivia, with the sound of the waves as their morning symphony, filled Em with a deep, quiet joy. As Em gazed at Olivia, who was soaking in the beauty of their surroundings with that familiar sparkle in her eyes, their heart swelled with love. There was something almost poetic in the way Olivia’s beauty shone in the Italian sunlight, as if she was the very embodiment of the warmth and light that surrounded them. Em found themselves lost in her, the world around them fading into the background as they admired the way the golden light caressed her skin, highlighting every delicate feature. Em leaned forward, a tender smile playing on their lips. Their voice was soft, filled with the depth of emotion they felt in that moment. "You look so beautiful in the sun- thank you for letting me whisk you away." Their hand reached across the table to gently brush against Olivia’s, a subtle yet intimate gesture that spoke volumes. Em’s eyes held a certain intensity as they continued, their voice a touch more playful but still laced with affection. "Shall we indulge and get dessert? I’ve heard the tiramisu here is divine, and honestly, what’s a romantic getaway without a little decadence?" @cookeoli

[emdvrcys]

tom glynn-carney and emma d'arcy photographed by emilio madrid.

[emdvrcys]

that sounds like an adventure i could get behind! i can just picture you out there, giving it your all, while the atlantic had a bit of a laugh at your expense. gotta love the british determination, though—even when the waves have other plans! i’ve definitely had my fair share of holiday mishaps. there was this one time i tried paddleboarding—thought it’d be a relaxing way to enjoy the water. turns out, balance isn’t exactly my strong suit, and i spent more time in the water than on the board. and don’t even get me started on the sunburn situation—it’s like the sun has a personal vendetta against us brits no matter how much sunscreen we use. but hey, at least you gave it a shot, right? plus, now you’ve got a story to tell, and a good reason to stick to our lovely, predictably gloomy weather. how've ya been other than wiping out in spain?

just escaped back to the uk after a rather ambitious attempt at surfing in portugal—where, as you might guess, every other sun-seeking brit lands up, as well. thought i’d break the mold a bit by not just lounging about but actually taking on the waves like a local. suffice to say, the atlantic had other plans for me. not only did i spend more time wiping out than standing up, but i also managed to turn a vibrant shade of lobster red, despite all the spf 50 i slapped on. it was a stark reminder of why i usually prefer the predictability of our often gloomy, yet comforting british weather over these sunny escapades. plus, nothing like repeatedly bailing in front of seasoned surfers to reinforce my appreciation for a quiet, crowd-free existence back home. anyone else ever ventured out of their comfort zone on holiday, only to regret it almost immediately? / @notoriousstarters

[emdvrcys]

sounds like you’re making the best of a frustrating situation, which is all you really can do, right? and yeah, focusing on the highlights helps, especially when you’re in a place you love. it’s good you have some downtime before your next show—gives you a chance to reset and just enjoy being in the city. hadestown and wicked? that’s an epic combo. i’m sure you’re going to love hadestown, especially if you’re into something different—it’s so immersive and the music is unreal. cabaret with auli’i is going to be amazing too! your broadway lineup is looking seriously solid this month. as for me, i’m just trying to keep my head above water with everything going on, but i’m also trying to find time to enjoy the little things, you know? i've been in rehearsals for a new play debuting in a few weeks and that has admittedly been rough but nothing too wild, just trying to balance work and life a bit better.

you'd think but i don't know - maybe it was these people's first time or something. that was the highlight for sure and i know things could have been way worse so trying to focus a little more on that, especially as time goes by a little more. it's always one of my favorite places to be so it works out and then it just so happens my next show is here in a few weeks so i can just chill out until then. it's soo good. different than anything else i've seen but in the best way possible. okay, so then i'm sold on that one. maybe i'll try to catch that sometime this coming week so then that would be one and then i'd probably throw wicked in, too, since i can never pass on that. all it's leading up to is seeing cabaret when auli'i debuts so this month really is about to be broadway filled for me. are you up to anything fun these days?

[emdvrcys]

i know, right? it’s like you blink, and suddenly years have gone by. two years on tour sounds like such a long time, but when you’re in the thick of it, it just flies by. and honestly, fall is the best time of year, so it’s great to know you’re in that camp too. there’s something about pulling out all the cozy plaid and just soaking in the crisp air that feels so comforting. you’ve got to try the caramel apple spice—it’s a game-changer, trust me. and hey, i’m totally on board with being best friends now although i'm definitely not as cool as you. i regret not catching your last show in london, i heard it was amazing!

It's wild how fast time really does get away from us. It's weird because I've been on tour for two years at this point and that really does sound like such a significant period of time, but when I think about it, it has passed so quick. Though I can't complain. All the best people love fall and so it just makes so much sense to me that you love it too. There's so much to love, you're right. Nothing brings me more joy than getting to pull out all my plaid stuff. Carmel apple spice? I'll have to try that on your recommendation, it sounds delicious. I barley know you, but I automatically feel like we should be best friends now. It's so cool finding someone you click with so easily.

[emdvrcys]

t really is, isn’t it? diving into that unknown, not knowing what you’re going to find. fanart has that power—it can be so breathtaking and humbling at the same time. seeing people put their talent into something inspired by us is wild, like, you can’t really prepare for that feeling. the snail thing though, yeah, that’s gonna stick with me for a while. i mean, snails are alright, but who’s out here thinking, “i want to be a snail”? they’ve got a tough gig, just trying not to get squashed. yeah - that's totally me. like an anxious mountain dog or something of that sort. i've been told i have an intimidating resting face but inside, i'm incredibly overthinking. an owl is cool, i could definitely see that. you look wise and your music sounds like an old soul wrote it, so an owl is very befitting.

It's terrifying, isn't it? Diving into the great unknown. I've seen fanart that completely takes my breath away. Seeing so many talented people take inspiration from us truly is a one of a kind feeling, don't ya think? Exactly. The "wait, what?" moment for me took a while, but that snail drawing isn't something I ought to forget anytime soon. It left a last impression on me. It's not like I mind a snail, they're fine but no one ever really looks at a snail and thinks, "ah yes, that's what I'd want to be in another life." Poor things are lucky if they don't get stepped on. An anxious dog? I love that... it's very descript, bt I could see it. The way I'd see it, I'd love to be some kind of owl. The nocturnal part especially speaks to my soul. I'm not a morning person by any means.