It was a quiet night in Maura Isles’ pristine, tastefully decorated home. However, tonight, she stirred from her sleep, faintly aware of a muffled noise coming from the guest room where Jane Rizzoli was staying.
Maura glanced at the clock on her nightstand: 1:47 AM. She furrowed her brow, her natural curiosity piqued. It was unusual for Jane to be awake so late, especially when she had practically collapsed onto Maura’s couch earlier that evening, complaining about how tired she was after a long day at work.
Slipping out of bed, Maura wrapped herself in a silky robe and padded quietly down the hall. The faint light streaming under the guest room door confirmed her suspicions. As she approached, she could hear soft, indistinct sounds—voices, moans? Maura paused, tilting her head curiously, before lightly tapping on the door.
Inside, Jane’s heart stopped. She was lying on the bed, wearing an old Boston PD t-shirt and sweatpants, her phone in her hand, the dim glow of the screen betraying her activities. On it played a video—two women tangled together, their movements sensual and intimate, their soft moans sending a tingle down Jane’s spine.
The knock startled her so much that she jerked upright, her phone slipping from her hand. It tumbled off the bed and landed with a thud at the feet of none other than Maura Isles, who had just opened the door.
“Jane?” Maura’s voice carried a mixture of concern and curiosity as she stepped into the room, her eyes darting from Jane’s startled expression to the glowing phone screen at her feet.
Jane’s cheeks burned hotter than the midday sun. She scrambled off the bed, lunging toward her phone, but Maura’s reflexes were quicker. With one elegant movement, she bent down and picked it up.
The video was still playing. Maura’s eyebrows lifted as she took in the scene: two women in an undeniable display of passion, their bodies entwined in ways that left no room for ambiguity.
For a moment, Maura was silent, her head tilting slightly as she processed what she was seeing. Jane, on the other hand, stood frozen, her hands half-raised in a futile gesture, her face a deep crimson.
“Maura, I—” she began, her voice cracking.
Maura turned her gaze to Jane, her expression unreadable, though there was a spark of something—curiosity? Intrigue?—in her hazel eyes. She glanced back at the phone before locking the screen and holding it out to Jane.
“Interesting choice of late-night entertainment,” she remarked calmly, her tone neutral yet tinged with curiosity.
Jane snatched the phone from her hand, mortified. “It’s not what it looks like!” she blurted out, then winced, realizing how ridiculous that sounded. “Okay, maybe it is, but—damn it, Maura, what are you doing sneaking around?”
“I wasn’t sneaking,” Maura replied, crossing her arms. “I heard a noise and wanted to make sure you were okay. Clearly, you’re…occupied.”
Jane groaned, dragging a hand down her face. “This is so embarrassing.”
Maura stepped closer, her analytical mind already piecing together the puzzle. "Jane, there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. It’s perfectly normal for people to explore their desires. Though I must admit, I didn’t peg you as someone who…” She trailed off, her gaze searching Jane’s face. “...enjoyed watching women together.”
Jane’s eyes widened. “Jesus, Maura, could you not psychoanalyze me right now?”
But Maura wasn’t deterred. Her curiosity was fully engaged. She tilted her head, studying Jane’s flustered demeanor with the same precision she applied to a corpse on her autopsy table.
“Does it arouse you?” Maura asked bluntly. “Watching women? Does it… make you wet?”
Jane nearly choked on her own breath. “Maura! What the hell?”
“I’m genuinely curious,” Maura said, her tone as clinical as ever, though her cheeks were tinged pink. “Have you ever considered being with a woman? Or is this purely a voyeuristic interest?”
Jane groaned, sinking onto the edge of the bed and burying her face in her hands. “I can’t believe we’re having this conversation. Leave it to you to turn something awkward into a full-blown interrogation.”
Maura moved closer, sitting beside Jane on the bed, her robe falling open slightly to reveal her smooth, toned legs. Jane’s eyes flickered downward for a split second before she snapped them back up, cursing herself internally.
“You didn’t answer my question,” Maura said softly, her voice less clinical now, more curious, almost…gentle.
Jane sighed, raking a hand through her messy hair. “I don’t know, okay? I guess I’ve thought about it. I mean, who hasn’t? But it’s not like I’ve ever…done anything.”
Maura nodded thoughtfully, her gaze fixed on Jane. “So, you’re curious.”
Jane shot her a look. “I didn’t say that.”
“You didn’t deny it,” Maura pointed out, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips.
Jane huffed, crossing her arms. "What does it matter, anyway? It’s not like I’m gonna go out and…experiment or whatever.”
Maura’s smile grew, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Why not?”
Jane blinked at her, startled. “What?”
“Why not experiment?” Maura said, her voice soft and inviting. “You’re clearly intrigued by the idea. And if it arouses you—if it makes you curious—why not explore that curiosity?”
Jane stared at her, her mind racing. Was Maura suggesting what she thought she was suggesting? She opened her mouth to respond, but no words came out.
Maura leaned in slightly, her hand resting lightly on Jane’s knee. “Have you ever wondered what it would feel like?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. “To be with a woman?”
Jane’s breath hitched as Maura’s hand slid just a fraction higher, her touch warm and deliberate. “Maura…” she began, her voice wavering.
“It doesn’t have to mean anything,” Maura continued, her gaze locked onto Jane’s. “It could just be two friends…helping each other satisfy their curiosity.”
Jane’s heart pounded in her chest, her body betraying her as heat pooled low in her belly. “You’re serious,” she said, more a statement than a question.
Maura nodded, her hand moving slightly higher on Jane’s thigh. “Completely.”
The tension between them was palpable, the air thick with unspoken possibilities. Jane swallowed hard, her mind a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts. Was she really considering this? Was Maura really offering?
“I—” Jane started, but before she could finish, Maura leaned in, her lips brushing against Jane’s in a tentative, testing kiss.
The world seemed to stand still as Jane froze for a moment, then, almost instinctively, leaned into the kiss. It was soft and exploratory, a spark igniting between them that neither could deny.
When they finally pulled apart, both women were breathless, their eyes locked in a shared understanding.
“So,” Maura said with a small, knowing smile. “Still curious?”
Jane didn’t answer with words. Instead, she closed the distance between them again, her lips capturing Maura’s in a kiss that was anything but tentative.
As Jane leaned into the kiss, Maura let out a soft, surprised sound that quickly melted into a pleased hum. Jane's hands tentatively found their way to Maura's waist, pulling her closer as the kiss deepened. It was an unfamiliar sensation, yet thrilling—a mix of uncertainty and raw, electric energy that made her pulse race.
Maura’s hands glided up Jane’s arms, her fingers brushing against the soft cotton of Jane’s t-shirt before settling on her shoulders. She gave a gentle squeeze, grounding them both as their kiss became more fervent, lips moving together in a rhythm that felt both natural and wildly new.
When they finally broke apart for air, their foreheads rested against each other’s, breaths mingling in the quiet intimacy of the moment. Jane’s mind was a whirlwind of emotions—confusion, excitement, and a gnawing fear of what this meant.
“That…” Jane began, her voice hoarse. “That wasn’t just curiosity, was it?”
Maura smiled softly, her thumb brushing against Jane’s cheek in a gesture that was both tender and reassuring. “Perhaps not,” she admitted, her voice low but steady. “But does that matter right now?”
Jane swallowed hard, her hands still resting on Maura’s waist. “I don’t know,” she said honestly. “I’ve never felt like this before.”
“Like what?” Maura asked, her gaze searching Jane’s face.
“Like…” Jane hesitated, then huffed out a nervous laugh. “Like I can’t think straight because all I want to do is kiss you again.”
Maura’s smile widened, a touch of amusement in her eyes. “Then perhaps you should.”
The invitation hung in the air for only a moment before Jane closed the distance between them again, this time with more confidence. Her hands slid up Maura’s back, pulling her closer as their kiss deepened. Maura responded in kind, her hands threading through Jane’s dark hair, holding her in place as their lips moved together with increasing intensity.
The soft silk of Maura’s robe brushed against Jane’s arms, a tantalizing contrast to the warmth radiating from her skin. Jane’s fingers flexed against Maura’s back, the urge to explore growing stronger with each passing second.
“Jane,” Maura murmured against her lips, her voice breathy and tinged with something Jane couldn’t quite place—desire, maybe, or anticipation.
“Yeah?” Jane replied, her voice equally husky.
“Are you sure you want this?” Maura asked, pulling back just enough to meet Jane’s gaze. “I don’t want you to feel pressured.”
Jane’s heart swelled at the concern in Maura’s voice. She shook her head, her hands framing Maura’s face as she spoke. “I’m sure,” she said firmly. “I don’t know what this is or what it means, but I know I want you. Right here, right now.”
Maura’s eyes softened, and for a moment, all Jane could see was the warmth and affection radiating from her. Then, with a small nod, Maura leaned in again, their lips meeting in another searing kiss.
This time, there was no hesitation. Jane’s hands moved lower, slipping under the edge of Maura’s robe to find the smooth skin of her back. Maura shivered under her touch, her own hands sliding beneath Jane’s t-shirt, her fingers exploring the toned muscles of her abdomen.
“God, Maura,” Jane breathed as their lips parted, her head tilting back as Maura’s kisses trailed along her jawline. “You’re incredible.”
“So are you,” Maura replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
Jane let out a soft groan as Maura’s lips found the sensitive spot just below her ear, her breath warm and tantalizing. Her hands roamed lower, finding the tie of Maura’s robe and tugging it loose. The fabric fell open, revealing the delicate lace of Maura’s nightgown beneath.
“You look amazing,” Jane said, her voice filled with awe.
Maura smiled, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. “Thank you,” she said, her hands tugging at Jane’s t-shirt. “But I think it’s only fair that I see you, too.”
Jane chuckled, lifting her arms to let Maura pull the shirt over her head. The cool air of the room kissed her skin, but it was nothing compared to the warmth of Maura’s hands as they explored her now-bare torso.
“Perfect,” Maura murmured, her fingers tracing the lines of Jane’s body.
Jane felt her heart skip a beat at the compliment, and for the first time in a long while, she felt truly seen—not just as a cop or a friend, but as a woman.
“Maura,” she said, her voice thick with emotion. “I don’t know where this is going, but I want to see what happens.”
Maura nodded, her hands framing Jane’s face once more. “Then let’s see,” she said softly, leaning in for another kiss that promised discovery, passion, and the possibility of something neither of them could have anticipated.
Jane’s pulse thundered as Maura’s lips met hers again, softer this time but no less consuming. The atmosphere in the room was charged, every touch and glance between them amplifying the moment. Jane felt the weight of years of friendship, longing, and unspoken tension crackling between them, and it made her movements bolder.
Maura’s robe slid from her shoulders, pooling at her feet in a whisper of silk. Jane took a step back, her eyes sweeping over Maura’s form. She looked stunning in the soft lace of her nightgown, the fabric clinging to her curves in a way that made Jane’s throat dry.
“God, Maura,” Jane breathed, her voice laced with admiration. “You’re… I mean, look at you.”
Maura smiled, a touch of shyness softening her usually composed demeanor. “You don’t have to say that,” she said, though her tone betrayed how much she appreciated it.
Jane stepped closer, her hands finding Maura’s waist. “I’m saying it because it’s true,” she said firmly, her eyes locking onto Maura’s. "You’re beautiful. Always have been.”
Maura’s breath hitched, her cheeks tinged pink. She reached up, her fingers tracing Jane’s jawline. “And you,” she said, her voice warm and tender. “You’re incredible, Jane. Strong, passionate, loyal… everything I could ever want.”
The vulnerability in her words made Jane’s heart clench. She leaned in, capturing Maura’s lips in a kiss that was both fervent and tender. Her hands slid up Maura’s sides, tracing the delicate straps of her nightgown before letting them fall. The fabric slipped down, revealing smooth, creamy skin that made Jane’s head spin.
Maura exhaled a soft, trembling breath as Jane’s lips trailed down her neck, her hands finding their way to Jane’s shoulders for support. The sensation of Jane’s mouth exploring her skin was unlike anything she’d felt before—gentle yet firm, deliberate yet spontaneous. It sent shivers coursing through her.
“Jane…” Maura murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.
Jane pulled back slightly, her hands settling on Maura’s hips. “Yeah?” she asked, her tone filled with both affection and curiosity.
“I’ve thought about this,” Maura admitted, her eyes meeting Jane’s. “About us. For a long time.”
Jane blinked, surprised. “You have?” she asked, her heart pounding.
Maura nodded, her gaze steady despite the vulnerability in her words. “Yes. I never thought it would happen, but… I’ve always wanted it to.”
Jane’s lips parted in disbelief, a nervous laugh escaping her. “You mean I could’ve done this ages ago?” she asked, half-joking but wholly floored by the revelation.
Maura smiled, her fingers brushing a strand of hair from Jane’s face. “Timing is everything, Jane. And maybe this is exactly when it was meant to happen.”
Something about Maura’s calm certainty steadied Jane’s nerves. She nodded, her hand cupping Maura’s cheek as she kissed her again, this time pouring everything she felt—desire, affection, and a sense of rightness—into the kiss.
As they moved closer to the bed, Jane guided Maura gently, her hands exploring every inch of skin she could reach. Maura responded in kind, her touches soft yet intentional, her fingers tracing the lines of Jane’s toned body.
They tumbled onto the bed together, laughter bubbling up between kisses as they navigated the newness of being so close, so intimate. Maura’s hands slid beneath the waistband of Jane’s shorts, her touch sending sparks of pleasure up Jane’s spine.
“You okay?” Maura asked softly, her eyes searching Jane’s for any sign of hesitation.
Jane nodded, her breath hitching. “More than okay,” she said, her voice thick with emotion. “I’ve never felt like this before, Maura. Not with anyone.”
Maura’s expression softened, her lips curving into a gentle smile. “Neither have I,” she admitted, her hand settling over Jane’s heart for a moment before sliding back down to explore.
What followed was a blur of passion and discovery, their bodies and souls coming together in a way that felt both new and inevitable. They moved together with a mixture of urgency and tenderness, every kiss and touch deepening the connection they’d always shared but never fully acknowledged.
As they finally lay tangled in each other’s arms, their breaths mingling in the quiet aftermath, Jane pressed a kiss to Maura’s temple.
“So,” she said, her voice playful but still tinged with awe. “Guess this means I’m into women now?”
Maura chuckled softly, her fingers tracing lazy patterns on Jane’s arm. “Or maybe you’re just into me,” she suggested, her tone light but her words carrying a deeper meaning.
Jane smiled, her heart swelling at the thought. “Yeah,” she said after a moment, her voice soft but sure. “I think I am.”
As the soft light of dawn began to filter through the curtains, Jane stirred, her body instinctively seeking the warmth beside her. Her eyes fluttered open to find Maura already awake, propped on one elbow, watching her with a mixture of tenderness and concern. The quiet stillness of the room was charged, the weight of the previous night hanging between them.
"Morning," Jane mumbled, her voice husky with sleep. She stretched slightly, the sheets slipping down her body as she turned to face Maura fully.
Maura’s gaze followed the movement, her expression unreadable. "Good morning," she replied softly. There was a pause before she spoke again, her brow furrowing slightly. "Jane… can we talk?"
Jane’s stomach tightened at the words, but she forced a casual shrug. "Sure. What's up?" She tried to sound nonchalant, but her heart was racing.
Maura hesitated, her fingers lightly tracing the edge of the pillow. "About last night," she began, her voice gentle but steady. "Was that… experimenting for you?"
The question hit Jane like a punch to the gut. She sat up abruptly, the sheet pooling around her waist as she raked a hand through her messy hair. "Experimenting?" she repeated, her tone sharper than she intended. "Maura, come on. You think I just… what? Wanted to check something off a bucket list?"
Maura’s cheeks flushed, but she held her ground. "I don’t mean to diminish what happened," she said carefully. "But this is new territory for both of us, and I need to know where we stand. I need to know where you stand."
Jane stared at her, a thousand thoughts colliding in her mind. She leaned forward, her hands bracing on the mattress as she tried to find the right words. "Look, yeah, it was new," she admitted, her voice rough with emotion. "And maybe I didn’t know I’d feel this way until it happened. But it wasn’t just some experiment for me, Maura. It was… it was real."
Maura’s eyes softened, but the concern didn’t entirely leave her face. "And now?" she prompted. "What happens now, Jane? Do you want to explore this more, or was last night enough?"
Jane let out a heavy sigh, her hands running through her hair again in frustration. "I don’t know," she said honestly, her voice quieter now. "I just know that I want more of you. Last night wasn’t enough. It could never be enough."
The vulnerability in her words made Maura’s heart ache. She reached out, her hand covering Jane’s where it rested on the bed. "I’m not asking for all the answers right now," she said gently. "I just need to know that you’re sure about this. About us.
Jane met her gaze, the intensity in her dark eyes making Maura’s breath catch. "I’m sure about you," she said firmly. "I don’t know what this means for the rest of my life, but I know that I want you in it. In every way."
Maura’s lips curved into a small, relieved smile, her fingers tightening around Jane’s. "That’s all I needed to hear," she said softly.
Jane exhaled, the tension in her shoulders easing. "Good," she said, her trademark smirk appearing. "Because I was really hoping for an encore."
Maura laughed, the sound warm and melodic. "You never change, do you?" she teased, her hand sliding up Jane’s arm to rest on her shoulder.
"Not when it comes to getting what I want," Jane shot back, leaning closer, her voice dropping to a husky murmur. "And right now, what I want is you."
Maura’s breath hitched as Jane closed the distance between them, her lips capturing Maura’s in a kiss that was slow and deliberate, a stark contrast to the urgency of the night before. Jane’s hands found Maura’s waist, pulling her closer as the kiss deepened, their connection growing stronger with every passing moment.
Maura pulled back slightly, her fingers tangling in Jane’s hair. "Jane," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "This isn’t just physical for me. You know that, right?"
Jane nodded, her forehead resting against Maura’s. "I know," she said softly. "It’s not just physical for me, either. You’re not some one-night stand, Maura. You’re… you’re everything."
The sincerity in her voice made Maura’s eyes shine with unshed tears. She kissed Jane again, her hands sliding down to rest on Jane’s back, holding her close.
They fell back onto the bed together, their bodies and hearts entwined. This time, their lovemaking was slower, more intentional, every touch and kiss a silent promise of the bond they were beginning to build.
Afterward, as they lay tangled in each other’s arms, the morning light casting a golden glow over the room, Jane pressed a kiss to Maura’s temple. "So," she said, her tone light but teasing. "You still think last night was just an experiment?"
Maura chuckled, her fingers tracing lazy patterns on Jane’s arm. "No," she admitted, her voice warm. "But I had to ask. For my own peace of mind."
Jane grinned, her hand sliding up to cup Maura’s cheek. "Well, let me put your mind at ease," she said, her voice low and serious. "You’re not just some experiment to me, Maura. You’re the real deal."
Maura’s heart swelled at the words, and she leaned in to kiss Jane again, her lips lingering against hers as she whispered, "And so are you."