Phryne looked up into his eyes and said, with a touch of sadness in her voice: "Jack Robinson. The man who always does the right thing. The noble thing." He paused and watched her for a moment, then seemed to reach a decision. He moved in closer and softly whispered, "Not always, Miss Fisher".

The next thing she knew, she was in his arms, and his lips were on hers in a tender kiss. She was taken aback for a moment, but quickly decided that she quite liked this new development. With a fierce rush of joy, she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him back. Encouraged by her obvious approval, his kisses became more passionate, and he ran one hand down her back, enjoying the feel of the silk robe under his fingers, while his other hand tangled into her hair. After a long moment, they broke apart, breathless, and regarded each other with uncertainty and longing. "Jack", she whispered, looking up at him questioningly. "Phryne…" he responded huskily, "You know I love you. It has taken me a long time to admit, even to myself, but I don't want to deny it anymore. I know you are independent. I know you live dangerously. I know that living with you might mean losing you, too. But I don't care anymore, I don't want you to change. You're an amazing woman, Miss Fisher, and I should be lucky to call you mine. If you'll have me, of course…" he trailed off uncertainly.

She looked up at him with candor and openness, and he saw nothing of the usual teasing in her eyes. "Of course I will", she said simply, and he enfolded her once more into his arms. It was enough.

Author's note: WARNING - from the next chapter onwards it's pure smut!