Hello everyone, hope you'll enjoy this multi-chapter fic. This is very slow-paced; just so you're warned! But plenty of action ahead, and will be M rated in later chapters. Would love to know what you all think. =) Lots of thanks to my awesome beta Carmina for all the help!

A Sky Full of Stars

Chapter 1: Changes

It was the morning after the celebrations at Granny's, when Emma woke up by the sounds of Henry pacing their room while talking excitedly on the phone with someone. From what she could make out, the sun had yet to rise but her son was already fully dressed and more than ready to start the day.

"9.00 am? Sure we'll be there! Thanks again Mr. Rogers." Henry ended the call, and noticed his mom's dazed expression as she reached for her Phone to look at the time, it was barely 7.15 am.

Three hours, she'd only managed to sleep 3 hours after last night's excitement and their little adventure in the Enchanted Forest. So much had happened in such a short space of time, her mind was still buzzing trying to process everything.

Nothing less but life-changing; that's how Emma defined the last couple of days in the past, and the few hours spent back in the present.

She'd decided to stay in Storybrooke with Henry, her magic had returned, she had a great chat with her parents and got properly introduced to her little brother 'Neal', and then… then there was Killian. Just thinking about him made her stomach flutter as she recalled their conversations and that kiss, well make-out session – which had left her with an intoxicating sense of happiness she'd never felt before, and giddy with love. But she couldn't help but feel awful that she may have ruined Regina's relationship with Hood because of her decision to save a life.

Regina had quickly left the diner after witnessing Hood and Marian's reunion, unable to stick around not even for Henry's sake. Emma wanted to go after her to try and explain her actions but Killian had stopped her, saying it would be of no use – not tonight anyway.

When the party finally came to an end and all the guests had left, Killian had wished the Charming's, Henry and Emma good night with a soft smile before heading to his room, which was below the one Emma shared with Henry. Knitting her brows together in mild confusion, Emma had watched him disappear without another word or glance at her direction, before she sent Henry upstairs with their key.

"I think we may have scared him off", laughed Snow as she turned to her daughter.

Noticing her puzzled look, David couldn't help but smile warmly as he continued "It's pretty obvious something happened between the two of you, Emma. I admit it took me a while to see that he wasn't just a pirate with a crush on my little girl, but honestly… I genuinely couldn't be more happy for the two of you, sweetheart."

Emma was beaming at her parents, "You guys really mean that?"

"You're positively glowing with happiness. Now tell me which father wouldn't want that for his daughter? Even if she does happen to get involved with… my mate." David winked.

"Dad, are you telling me you're jealous?" teased Emma.

"Don't push it!" David laughed as he relished in her calling him dad' for the second time tonight, taking baby Neal into his arms.

"Now go and reassure him, he's got our blessing, and we'll talk more tomorrow, ok?" smiled Snow, before kissing Emma on her forehead and hugging her tightly.

"I will mom." said Emma cheerfully, still slightly pinching herself that this moment of bonding with her father and mother was really happening.

Emma watched her parents leave the diner as she could hear Snow telling David "I'm not crying! These are tears of joy. We've never seen her so happy!", before she made her way to Killian's room.

He quickly opened his door after the first knock, with a sheepish smile.

"Swan."

Just hearing the way he said her name, and looked at her like she was the most beautiful treasure from the seas, made her slightly breathless. She'd always felt comfortable and confident around him, and there was so much she wanted to tell him and so many things that he needed to hear from her – yet somehow now that she was standing in front of him, she could hear herself rambling on and on like some nervous teenager.

"Killian, hey… I just came by to thank you for everything again… and that my parents, well we had this really great conversation tonight, and if it wasn't for you I'd probably be packing for New York right now – which I can't believe I was seriously considering this morning… I'm glad you helped me see sense, and I really can't thank you enough for always believing in me, while I was… let's be honest… pretty hurtful to you most of the time without any reason, except that I was mad at you for being right, because I know you were… you always are. And it's true you see me better than anyone else; scars and all. Oh and my parents somehow know something happened… between us… but they're ok with it! They really are", she said with a watery smile. "I just hope I can… I mean I know you deserve someone far better… I'm just not sure how I… you.. .I mean we…"

"Emma love, are you quite alright?" he asked softly, his blue eyes full of concern as he tilted her chin to make her gaze up at him.

"Yes… No… I don't know", her voice faltered as she could feel her cheeks burning bright red, from embarrassment. Flirting with a drunken 'past Killian' during their adventure had been no problem at all, but after kissing him in front of Granny's something had changed and suddenly this, whatever this was, felt real. It was about them and now that her walls where down and she was letting love in, she simply felt overwhelmed by all these exciting but unfamiliar feelings, which in truth terrified her. She couldn't allow herself to mess things up or fail, not with Killian – not after everything they've been through and the sacrifices he made.

"Darling come here", Emma stepped into his embrace, resting her head against his warm chest while his hand stroked her back up and down, silently comforting her.

So this is yet another definition of what home feels like, thought Emma as she soon relaxed in his arms, closing her eyes.

Killian weighed his words carefully, fully aware that even though she opened up to him and kissed him while accepting his love – the mere notion of them, as in a couple in love was a brand new territory to deal with, not only for her but for him as well. Before Liam's death, he'd been focusing so much on his naval career that apart from a short courtship with an admiral's daughter, his experiences when it came to the matters of the heart had been severely lacking. Piracy brought him nothing but meaningless dalliances, until Milah came into his life and showed him what love was really about, and god knows he had loved her – so much so that following her murder he spent 300 years on a path of revenge filled with violence and self-loathing. And as Emma had witnessed in the Enchanted Forest, the game of dice, a bottle of rum and a pretty girl in a bar he wouldn't care to remember in the morning, only managed to dull the pain of his broken heart for a few hours.

Emma was the one responsible for making him believe that he could love again, after centuries of being unloved and unloving; she'd proved to be his saviour in every meaning of the word as he rediscovered the man of honor within himself. But a relationship, being in a real relationship including everything that this entails in the modern world – he'd never been in one since Milah!

He didn't know nor needed to know all the details about Neal's and Emma's relationship, only that she'd carried its scars for quite a long time, and made her wary of love until she was able to forgive him. And yes, Killian had mocked his Swan girl about her relationship with Walsh, but she had been on the verge of marriage none the less. Those 8 months were very real to her, they stung and she got her heart broken all over again.

Now not even a month later, after everything that happened, he knew she was taking a leap of faith by letting him in and hearing her broken speech filled with gratitude and insecurities made his heart ache.

He took a deep breath, as he tried to keep his voice as steady as possible.

"Love, you're not alone in this. You just have to know that I'm not going anywhere, as I'd hate you to think that I'm still that man in the tavern because I'm not. When you came into my life Swan, you made me want to be a better man, not just a pirate but the man I used to be. Without you I honestly wouldn't know where I'd be right now, but instead here you are in my arms making me happier than I've ever been in such a very long time. You gave me the push I needed to rediscover myself, and I guess that's what I did as well when I pushed you to find your inner strength – because I knew you had it all along. We really are kindred spirits Swan, and you giving me strength is just one of the many hundreds of reasons why I care about you."

Killian could feel her smiling against his chest, as he kissed the top of her head. He had just managed to stop himself from saying that he loved her, knowing she wasn't ready to hear the words aloud.

"Now I'd be lying if I told you that I'm not scared, because trust me I am… but I also know we do make a rather good team together."

Emma switched her position, allowing her to lock her eyes with his, while he gently swept her hair away from her face. The next moment she was kissing him again, soft and sweet with the hope that he'd realize that she loved him – although far from ready to tell him yet. Those sincere words were exactly what she needed to hear, as they instantly reassured her.

When they finally parted, Killian was smiling widely, "Swan I do have to ask if it's either due to the whole time-portal travelling thing or perhaps that you may have had too much to drink at the party… but I seem to recall you telling me that I'm always right, when you damn well know that I can screw things up like the best of them." He arched one of his eyebrows in amusement.

"I mean during our little trip I could barely handle Smee's incompetence, while I almost let your boy board his ship to escape to New York." Killian watched Emma's reaction closely until it had its desired effect, as he managed to break the spell he'd somehow been able to cast and let reality wash over her.

Emma's features became suddenly hard, as she took a step back to let some space come between them. "Damn it I really should still be angry at you for that!" Emma raised her voice slightly, though aware other guests were sleeping in their rooms.

"You should! I know I was cursed but… Smee?!" Killian was admonishing his actions and Emma could hear he was annoyed with himself.

"Well I did forgive you…" she acquiesced.

Killian closed the gap as he let his arms encircle her once more. "Emma I just wanted to show you that we're still the same person, well mostly the same person we were this morning." He smiled warmly. "We both have our faults and strengths, it's almost a guarantee that we'll have many fights because we can both be terribly stubborn, but that's not a bad thing! We don't have to figure this, us and we right away. It's ok not to have all the answers yet… but we can try to find them together?"

"I'd like that…" Emma answered softly, as Killian gently cupped her cheek.

"So in the spirit of trying us out, would Miss Swan like to join me for a walk at the Docks tomorrow, say 11.00 a.m., so we may continue our chat as the hour is getting rather late?"

Emma couldn't help but softly giggle at his very formal tone, "Why Captain Jones, are you asking me out on a date?"

Killian eyes were glinting with mischief, "What if I was, would the Lady agree to meet me?" he asked in that deliciously seductive tone of his.

"I believe she would, Captain." Said Emma sweetly before Killian gave her the softest kiss of the night yet.

"Good." he smiled, pressing their foreheads together." Now will you be alright my love?" concern returned to his voice as he asked Emma if he was able to abate some of her fears.

"Yes, I think I am. Thank you Killian" She told him softly before hugging him.

"That's why I'm here for, love."

Emma smiled, wishing she could stay in his arms for a while longer, but it was really getting late and they were both exhausted after their trip in the past.

With a final kiss on top of her head, Killian bid Emma goodnight with the promise of the start of a brand new chapter in their lives.

~~~ K & E ~~~

Emma had been unable to find sleep however, and when she finally did – Henry had managed to wake her, just a few hours later.

"9.00 am? Sure we'll be there! Thanks again Mr. Rogers." said Henry excitedly as he ended the call.

"Hey kid, who were you talking to just now?" asked Emma sleepily.

Henry smiled widely, "Morning mom! That was the real-estate agent; I called the office and managed to get us a viewing of that apartment I told you about, you know the one by the sea?"

Emma's sleepy mind tried to make sense of what her son had just told her, blinking a few times as she checked the clock on her iPhone again.

"But it's just past 7.00 am – on a Saturday?!" she exclaimed incredulously.

Henry looked at her in amusement, "Yes… and as crazy as it may sound, people do work on Saturdays… and this one works from 7.00 am until 12.00 today. Soo… is it alright?"

"Seems like I don't really have a choice now do I?" She gave her son a reproachful look before her features quickly softened, knowing he wouldn't let this one go. "Ok kid you win, pitch me this apartment of yours."

"Awesome! I promise you mom, you're gonna love it!" Henry sat down beside his mother on the bed, as he showed her the description and the accompanied small picture from the paper.

"It's on the third floor, has this really cool open plan kitchen / living room like we had in New York, has two bedrooms including en-suites, a third bathroom, a study and a balcony!"

Emma had to admit this really sounded perfect, and couldn't hide the excitement in her voice. "There's got to be a catch though somewhere right? How much do they ask anyway?"

"Oh that? About a third of the cost of our apartment in New York" Henry informed her casually, knowing full well that Emma would be impressed.

"Reasonable real-estate prices indeed." smiled Emma as she put her arm around her son.

"And there's a bigger one in the same building on the top floor, with even more space. Though the third-floor one should be large enough, even if Killian wants to join us." He added in a matter-of –fact tone.

"Wait… what?!" exclaimed Emma, giving her son a dumbfounded look.

Henry rolled his eyes, "It's ok mom, I'm not 7 anymore… I saw the way you two looked at each other all night last night."

"You did…? Are we really that obvious?" asked Emma in amazement.

Henry gave his mother a reassuring smile, "Yes you are, and I'm glad – I'm glad he makes you happy. I haven't seen you this happy since you saved me in Neverland, and that was because you were relieved. Oh no hang on, you did come home with a large smile once, feeling pretty happy with yourself, when you got those shoes in that Bloomingdales sale." Henry teased with a smirk.

"Oh Henry…. You know I love you right?" Emma planted a kiss on his forehead.

"I know mom, and you don't have to worry about me. I like Killian – I might not have had my memories, but I know he was there for me after dad died…" Emma gave him a squeeze as she recalled what she'd said to past Rumple about Neal. "I'm happy he came into our lives, he's one of the good guys!"

Emma smiled softly, "Yes he is…."

"So whenever you decide to let us be his home, it's fine by me." Henry told her cheerfully.

Emma looked up at her son in slight wonder "How did you get to be so wise anyway? Giving me real-estate AND relationship advice!"

"Because I am your son?" Henry stated with an impish smile.

"That is such a terrific answer!" laughed Emma as she ruffled her boy's hair.

"A terrific answer that may earn be that bike?" he asked hopefully.

Emma gave a slight groan. Henry had been asking her for a bike in New York when Avery got his, but had been reluctant about it since she didn't like the idea of Henry riding a bike without her supervision in the city. And it wasn't just any bike… it was the latest BMX model he wanted.

"Come on mom, I am going to be 13 next month. It's about time I 'm able to go to school and visit our family and Regina on my own without you driving me everywhere or having to walk. Besides, Storybrooke is a lot safer than New York!" he told her with exasperation.

Emma gave him an incredulous look, "Minus all the curses, crazy Wicked Witches and people wishing us dead you mean?"

Henry rolled his eyes with frustration; his mother knew perfectly well what he meant.

"Alright fine, it's true it would make life a lot easier for the both of us without me having to drive you all the time." She conceded.

"YES!" Henry punched the air.

"Just promise me you'll ask Regina about it first, I'd hate her to be mad at me for yet another thing."

"Wait… are you two fighting again?" Henry gave his mother a quizzical look.

Emma felt her stomach drop; she really didn't want to talk about what she'd done to Regina right now.

"Not exactly… but just ask her ok, before we go to the bike-store?" She urged.

Henry didn't press the matter further as he knew Emma well enough by now, when he sensed she didn't want to talk about something.

"Well I was planning to go and see her after we went to see the apartment, if that's ok?"

"Yes of course that's fine…" smiled Emma as she suddenly remembered Killian asked her to meet him at 11.00 am. "I've got some plans of my own later anyways."

"Plans involving seeing Killian I gather, looking at your face?" teased Henry.

"What's wrong with my face?!" she asked, while she damn well knew what was wrong with it as she could feel her cheeks burning hot again.

"Mom, you've gone all red!" Henry remarked with amusement.

"Right, that's it!" as Emma got up, slightly annoyed." I'm going to get ready before we miss that real-estate agent's appointment. Meanwhile you can go and grab some breakfast downstairs and I'll see you in a bit."

Henry shook his head, before heading out the door with a beaming smile. He had a feeling this was going to be a great day today!

~~~ K & E ~~~

She had to hand it to him; Henry was spot on with that apartment. As soon as she walked into the front room, Emma knew they'd found their home. It was light and airy thanks to the open plan set-up, with a modern kitchen and a very nice hardwood floor. Both bedrooms were similar in size to what they had in New York, and each came with a well- appointed shower room. But what really sold this place were those stunning ocean views through the ceiling to floor window in the living room, which did came with access to a balcony where they'd be able to sit outside comfortably.

"So what do you think?" asked Henry after about 5 minutes of viewing the apartment.

"We'll take it!" said Emma with a wide smile as she turned to Mr. Rogers.

The real-estate agent couldn't believe his luck when Emma signed the lease right there and then, and handed over the keys before moving on to his next appointment.

Emma hugged her son tightly, as she took in their surroundings. She really had no idea it would be so easy to feel truly at home in Storybrooke.

Henry laughed "See I knew you were going to love this place! So when do we move in?"

Emma tilted her head slightly, "That depends…how much do you miss your own bed?"

"The one in New York, you mean? Actually quite a lot…" Henry told her apologetically, knowing Walsh had been responsible for most of their furniture in the loft.

"So do I kid" Emma couldn't help but cringe slightly at her own admittance. The truth of the matter was that even though her almost-fiancé who turned out to be a monster from The Wizard of Oz, had helped her with the furniture – they both still really liked it, especially their super-comfy beds; and she had paid for it after all.

"Here's the thing, how weird on a scale from 1 to 10 would it be if I asked a moving company to pack our belongings and furniture from the loft, and let them deliver it to the nearest real town, before getting it all to Storybrooke?"

Henry didn't have to give this a second thought before answering "Zero!"

"That's good enough for me!" laughed Emma, before getting her phone out and started to look up potential moving companies.

She'd figure out the details tomorrow, as it was time to drop off Henry at the Mayor's house before heading to the Docks and meet Killian.

As they arrived in front of Regina's, Emma found it hard to swallow but she really couldn't bring herself to tell Henry about Marian. She decided to let Regina do the honours, or not. In truth she was prepared that Henry would come home later with a gift basket filled with poisoned apples…

"Are you really not going to tell me why Regina is mad at you? You know I can help smoothing things over?"

Emma gave her son a watery smile, "Thanks Henry, but not this time… just don't forget to ask her permission to get that bike of yours."

"I won't" a wide smile appeared on her sons face, as he stepped out of the yellow bug.

"By the way are you sure you don't want me to stay over, so that you and Killian can have some alone-time?" he asked gleefully.

Emma gave him a wincing look, "NO!… THAT won't be necessary! We're not… This is just... oh just get out of the car, Henry!" She exclaimed in dismay. She was heading for their first date! What the hell was her son thinking? Though she had to admit, she was perhaps protesting a little too much, as of course she'd thought about them, she was only human after all, and Killian being his gorgeous self simply oozed sex.

Henry chuckled "Whatever you say mom, but you're blushing again!" before he slammed the car door and saw Emma drive away.

~~~ K & E ~~~

Just pull yourself together Swan, Emma encouraged herself as she parked the bug at the Docks. Her stomach was twisting into knots, her mouth felt like sandpaper it was that dry, and her heart was thundering in her chest. The only small mercy was that she hadn't put on any blusher this morning as her flushing cheeks were more than red enough. Wearing her comfy boots, dark jeans and a simple blue turtleneck, she stepped out of the car in welcoming sunshine and blue skies. It really was a gorgeous spring day. Emma took a couple of deep breaths before making her way to one of the benches along the shore, where Killian was already patiently waiting for her.

"Hello Beautiful." Killian smiled brightly when he saw her approaching.

"Hey." Emma answered feebly before sitting down as far away from him as possible. This was horrendous; she could still feel her legs trembling as she'd barely made it walking over to him. Her cheeks were hot, her head was pounding and she felt totally incapable of looking at him. All she could do was stare out at the sea and hope that this wretched feeling would pass.

"Emma, what's wrong?" Killian asked disquietly, scooting over to her. Emma simply buried her face in her hands in response. Clearly she was in distress, but Killian had no idea what he could do to help if she wouldn't talk to him. At first he thought something might have been wrong with her family or friends, but he quickly realized that she might be ill…

"Can you just hold me?" she murmured after a while. It only took a moment before Emma found herself with her head against his chest while he embraced her. As the minutes ticked by in silence, the steady sound of his beating heart worked its magic by calming her nerves and relieving her headache. Soon enough she was feeling normal again.

Emma sat up and faced him with an apologetic smile "Hi."

"Hi." Killian answered with furrowed brows and deep concern. "Shall I get you to the doctor, love?"

"No, I'm fine. Really!" Emma tried to reassure him, because she honestly did feel like her normal self again.

"Swan, you looked anything but fine5 minutes ago, I was about to take you to the hospital…." Killian arched his eyebrows, unable to hide the panic he'd felt just moments before in his voice, as he watched on helplessly.

"I'm so sorry; I didn't mean to scare you like that…" Emma spoke softly, cupping his cheek as she saw his blue eyes filled with worry. "I… just blame it to a rush of blood to the head. I was nervous coming over here, as you can tell by my face, which is probably still looking as red as that buoy floating over there… But truly I'm ok." She smiled reassuringly.

Killian locked his eyes with hers, "Emma, you know what I said last night. If this is too soon or if I'm making you uncomfortable…" but he didn't get the chance to finish his sentence as Emma leaned in to press her lips against his.

"Can we please start over?" she implored him with a bright smile.

Killian sighed, "Ok, but I'm keeping my eyes on you Swan." He told her sternly.

"I'd despair if you didn't." she answered him playfully, which earned her a smirk in return. While he was half-sitting across the bench, Emma settled between his legs with her back against his chest – while the sun and the gentle breeze played against their faces.

"Oh hey look, you can actually see my new apartment from here." Emma pointed to him excitedly. "It's the block with the navy blue windows and balconies, we're on the third floor."

"Come again, love? When did this happen?!" Killian's eyebrows knitted together in confusion.

Emma laughed "I know, I was as surprised as you are this morning. But Henry was desperate to show me this place before I dropped him off at Regina's. What can I say, we both really liked it, and so I signed the lease!"

Killian held her tighter and kissed her temple "Congratulations love, I'm glad you and Henry found your own place to live. Granny's isn't exactly the most exciting place to stay, especially with a teenage boy to keep entertained…"

"No, it sure isn't." Emma agreed. "Well staying at Granny's is ok for a while but it's not exactly…" her voice trailed off as her mind wandered back to the Jolly Roger and the fact Killian gave it up for her. The place where she used to be moored was noticeably empty, as Emma gazed along the marina. It was all her fault he no longer had a place to call home, and here she was talking excitedly about her newly-found apartment and lamenting Granny's.

"Emma my ears are ringing! You're thinking so loudly." Killian remarked irritably.

"I'm not saying or thinking anything." Emma protested meekly.

"You're thinking plenty and I won't have it, Swan." Killian sighed heavily.

"But…"

"No, no buts. All I could ever hope, dream or wish for is lying right here in my arms. I've no regrets, so forgive me if I won't allow you to have any in my place." He told her, his eyes ablaze with passion." Besides, I was hoping you might want to join me for a walk later, as I was planning to have a look around for a new ship." He asked her gingerly.

Exquisite warmth radiated from her heart to her fingertips when she heard his words, though she couldn't promise him to ever be really free of guilt. Emma turned to face him, "Of course I would!" before she kissed him. She was quickly becoming addictive to his kisses, and this was only day one as a couple… Her hand tangled itself at the back of his head, while he deepened the kiss. Before they really got into it however, Emma pulled away and buried her flushed face in the crook of his neck as her stomach protested loudly from lack of food.

"This is the most humiliating first date ever…" she murmured.

Killian chuckled while stroking her hair and back. "Let me guess… you haven't eaten anything yet, have you?"

"No." she answered sheepishly.

Killian sighed, "I'm beginning to understand why you almost fainted on me earlier. Has anyone ever told you that breakfast is the most important meal of the day? You really shouldn't skip it love, even when you're feeling nervous."

"I did hear that… once or twice before." Emma gazed up at him with a forlorn expression as he cupped her cheek, before kissing her forehead.

"Alright, we really need to get some food into you Swan. Now if I'm not mistaken Anderson's isn't that far away. You stay here love, and I'll get lunch sorted."

While Killian went to get something to eat, Emma stared at the sea while musing over the fact that she did almost faint earlier – something which never happened to her before. She also didn't comprehend why she'd felt so bloody nervous in the first place and her body had gone haywire… Yes she was with Killian now, but after just a few minutes she'd felt as relaxed and confident around him like always. Perhaps the time-travelling had left its traces? Before she could give it any more thought, she received a text about a potential new job offer, reminding her that she really needed to sort out the loose ends of her old life. Killian soon returned with bags full of food and water to drink.

"Everything ok, love?" Killian asked with concern, seeing her thoughtful expression.

Emma smiled softly, "Yeah, I just received a text reminding me that I've a lot of things to sort out on Monday. Not just finding a moving company, but will also need to inform Henry's school that he won't be returning, and other similar things I really don't wish to bore you with."

Killian tilted his head "I doubt you could ever bore me, love" He winked with a playful grin.

Emma returned his smile, "Administration and contracts are the most boring things in this modern-world."

"Can't you ask someone else to take care of it all for you?" he asked while taking the food out of the bags.

"I wish I could! But sadly no… it will be ok though. I'll be happy when it's all done and our life in Storybrooke can really begin." she told Killian as she watched him lay out more and more food on the bench. "Did you order the entire menu or something?" Emma asked dumbfounded.

Killian laughed heartily, "This is the result of actually not knowing what you like or not. We've spent so much time fighting villains and witches or breaking curses and travel through time-portals, that I found myself without a clue what else you like besides hot cocoa and cinnamon."

Emma looked stunned as she realised she didn't have a clue what he liked to eat either, or any other 'trivial' things about him for that matter. "You're right; it seems we entirely skipped that part! We should play a game after we eat, it will be fun."

"If you say so, love" He looked at her with a hesitant expression, not entirely sure what game she had in mind.

Killian brought sandwiches, salads, fruit salads, yoghurt, and lemon cake. Way too much for the two of them, but it was very tasty; and at least she could tell him he hadn't bought anything she didn't like. With a full stomach, which made her feel even better she had to admit, she started the game.

"Here's the thing, it's just an easy game of questions and answers. Whatever one person asks, we both have to answer so hopefully by end of it we'll know a little bit more about one another, besides that we can count on each other no matter what." She smiled brightly.

Killian's eyes sparkled with love "That we certainly can, Swan."

"Ok then I'll start, what's your favourite colour?" asked Emma.

"Blue, though nothing can beat the clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. What's yours?"

"Blue, as well. I'm especially partial to the colour of your eyes come to think of it." Emma answered matter-of-factly before a triumphant grin crossed her face as she watched Killian blushing. "What's the matter Jones, can't take a compliment?" she teased gleefully.

Killian smiled sheepishly "Ok Swan you win, seems like blushing will be our thing today. My turn now I believe, what's your favourite smell?"

"Hmmm, it will sound so cliché but it's got to be chocolate, freshly cut grass and… sandalwood."

Killian's eyebrows arched with keen interest, "Sandalwood, you say? Remind me Swan, I believe we were surrounded by those exotic trees back in Neverland, were we not?" he asked in a seductive tone.

Emma smiled warmly, "Yes, come to think of it… indeed we were." From the moment after they'd kissed in the Neverland jungle, she'd come to associate the woody, spicy, warm and comforting smell of the plant with Killian. She could actually smell the sandalwood on him now, as whatever products he was using contained the ingredient.

She felt the urge to kiss him again but he mercilessly teased her by pulling away at the last moment with a mischievous smirk. "As for me, I really like the smell of your hair, it's like sunshine and vanilla." which made Emma laugh. "And the elements at sea." He said thoughtfully, reminding himself how many times he'd been able to predict a storm was brewing and changed course accordingly, which had often saved his life and that of his crew.

"What's your favourite book or author? I'm actually really interested to find out since I seem to be either related to all of my favourite characters or pose a threat to them which I still haven't really gotten used to by the way!"

Killian laughed heartily as an adorable confused expression crossed Emma's features with that last remark. He gently cupped her cheek, "Yes, I did notice you still struggled with our reality. But before I answer your question, I'm curious to learn if I used to be one of those favourite characters of yours?"

Emma saw the hopeful look shine in his blue eyes, the same one she saw when he asked about his 'character' back in Neverland. Sadly she was forced to disappoint him yet again. Emma shook her head "Ahem… not exactly." She cringed. "But you've to blame Disney, Spielberg and Dustin Hoffman for that as they… they didn't do your story or 'character' any favour really in the films."

"What do the people of this realm think when my name is being mentioned?" Killian asked apprehensively.

Emma sighed, "That you're an old pirate captain with a silly hat, moustache and permed wig. Have an OCD with clocks, you're terrified by a crocodile (the reptile) and that… Peter Pan is the hero of the story." She told him with a small voice.

Killian's expression was mutinous "I beg your pardon?!" he croaked. Emma gave him a sympathizing look "I know, it's… bad".

Killian tilted his head "BAD?! Swan, these are nothing but awful lies!" he exclaimed indignantly with furrowed brows.

Emma draped her arm around his shoulder "It's a great injustice…" she gulped "But look on the bright side, you still won me over…" she smiled cheerfully, making a mental note to forbid Henry to ever show him Peter Pan, Hook, and all other adaptations.

Killian still looked appalled but composed himself and kissed the top of her head "I suppose that is what matters most…" he breathed. "But why would this realm believe I'm somehow obsessed by clocks of all things?"

Emma really couldn't bring herself to tell the story of the clock inside the crocodile, let alone that Pan fed him his hand, so moved the subject along. "Just a silly idea by the author, nothing more… Like the following example. Now one of my favourite series of books is about a young wizard actually!" she told him excitedly "His name is Harry Potter, and the author decided that goblins would be in charge of the only bank of the Wizarding World – you know that they're responsible of all the money and such."

Killian stared at her with a blank expression "I haven't come across this Potter lad, but what's your point, love?"

Emma gazed back at him nonplussed "Well that it was the author's idea to have magical creatures in charge of the money instead of people or bankers, just like the author who wrote about you decided to make you scared of clocks. It's just them using their imagination."

Killian blinked "But goblins are in charge of all the money transactions in the Enchanted Forest. Everyone knows their banks are the best and the safest, didn't you know?"

"Hang on, are you telling me goblins really do exist and there really is such a thing as secret underground vaults guarded by magic spells and dragons?" she asked in astonishment.

"So you've been to one of the branches after all?" Killian raised his eyebrows in amusement.

Emma swallowed hard and gulped down some of the water, why was she even surprised anymore? "You know what… never mind." she smiled timidly. "So, what's your favourite book?"

Killian averted his gaze back to the sea and watched the waves crash onto the shore, biting his bottom lip. "Stars, Ships & Clocks: A Nautical Almanac by John Harrison" he answered softly.

"That's quite a mouthful." Emma remarked with a grin. "Why is it your favourite?" she asked, her interest piqued.

Killian shrugged, "Each student who passed through the doors of the naval college had to learn every single page, every drawing and diagram. You were expected to know the book better than the back of your own hand, if you ever hoped to pass the officers' exams. The tutors were relentless in quizzing us, and there were severe penalties if you were called in front of the class, and couldn't answer correctly. Even more severe punishments, if you were quizzed by the higher ranked officers aboard one of the ships you served as part of your training. Some were real bastards who took pleasure in degrading us youngsters, trying to break our spirit by exposing a certain weakness, just so they could punish you for it. If you did fail a test, the last thing you wanted was to be on duty for the night-watch during a whole week, when you still had your own to fulfil come morning – especially during the winter months, when the rain and the ice cold wind could be relentless." He winced.

Emma knitted her eyebrows together in confusion, wondering why such a book could ever become anyone's favourite, "This book you had to study sounds incredibly difficult! Were you ever forced to stand watch in the cold?" she asked with concern.

"Aye… I did struggle." Killian conceded. "Liam was always much better than me when it came to studying." he smiled. "He only had to read a full chapter once, and he'd memorized it to the letter. He was also a great mathematician in his own right, and able to handle the sextant with absolute perfect precision no matter how badly the night sky was lit." He told her with pride in his voice.

"Being the younger brother of the talented and highly regarded Captain Jones wasn't always that easy however, as my peers often expected a lot more from me compared to my fellow shipmates. Geometry was my weakness, and being a Jones – all I really wanted was to make my brother proud. So I studied whenever I got the chance… but the pressure eventually got to me."

"When I contracted a severe lung disease after a disastrous trip and too many night-watches, Liam sat by my sickbed and made me promise to better make damn sure to fight the fever with everything I got, or else he vowed he'd stay mad at me forever. Well I couldn't let that happen…" He smiled softly, as he remembered how the scenes unfolded at the naval hospital.

Killian had been a hair's breadth away from succumbing to the illness. While Liam made sure that the Lieutenant responsible for ordering his brother to twelve consecutive night-watches in freezing temperatures and snow was thrown out of the navy – after it transpired that two other students almost lost their lives during the previous voyage, at the hands of the hard task-master.

"So I fought and slowly but surely my health improved. Liam was granted a leave of absence to take care of me, and once I was well enough, he sat me down and we went through the entire book together, over and over and over again, until I understood everything and knew it as well as he did – better in fact!" Killian told her with sparkling eyes.

"I would never have passed my exams and become a Lieutenant, if it wasn't for my brother." He said solemnly.

"I really do owe him everything, as he gave us the chance to serve together… before…" Killian gulped hard before he was able to continue, the painful images of their final moments replayed themselves in his mind.

"And so whenever I glance at my copy of Stars, Ships & Clocks I can still read his notes, his advice and wise words – which till this day, are an immeasurable source of comfort and bring me great joy to know that I can still turn to Liam, when days are a bit tougher than others…" He told her, his voice thick with emotion.

Killian couldn't remember the last time he'd told anyone these stories of his past. Even though everything had happened such a very long time ago, talking about Liam was still painful and always stirred up many emotions. The book was one of the very few possessions he managed to save when he gave up The Jolly Roger. While he had no regrets in trading the ship for the magic bean, he had to admit that he'd be at a loss without Liam's sextant, the Jones insignia and the book.

"I'm sure I would have really liked your brother…" Emma told him with a shaky voice, her eyes brimming with tears. She knew how difficult it was for him to talk about Liam. The fact that Killian was willing to share some of his past with her, really meant everything.

"I'm sure he would have really liked you too, Emma. Knowing Liam he'd probably ask you what the devil you're thinking in spending your time with me…" he laughed softly before brushing her spilled tears away with his thumb.

"There's no need to cry Swan." He whispered, as she hugged him tightly. Emma felt like she was fighting an uphill battle, wanting nothing more than be able to tell him that she loved him and that although she could never replace his brother, she wanted him to know that she'd always be there for him – but the words refused to come out, much to her dismay.

Killian, like her, has had to make his way in life alone, and has often been very cocky about the fact that if there's one thing he excels at is surviving. After hearing his story, Emma realised that it was never just a brazen pirate's declaration – he's just honouring his brother's wishes to fight with everything he's got. It all clicked into place, and she closed her eyes for a moment before pressing their foreheads together. Killian tenderly cupped her cheek and brushed his lips on hers like a sweet caress, before Emma deepened the kiss. She might not be able to say the words yet but she poured everything into it, hoping that he'd know what she desperately wanted to say, as their tongues danced together in a passionate kiss.

"Steady on, Swan. Now you're the one making me feel light-headed." Killian smiled coyly while trying to catch his breath, after they finally broke for air.

Emma saw nothing but adoration for her as she gazed into his eyes, smiling brightly.

"How are you feeling, love? Be honest." He asked gently, wrinkling his brow.

Emma cradled his cheek "Good. Better than good." She laughed warmly. "I really am well again Killian." She reassured him.

Killian sighed with relief, "In that case, would you like to walk along the marina with me, Miss Swan?"

"It will be my pleasure Captain Jones." Emma answered ardently.

Emma helped Killian clear the bench before walking down the shoreline. With the sun shining brightly and a gentle breeze playing with her hair, she entwined her hand with his, much to his visible delight. She felt elated letting the whole world know that they were a couple now, and that she couldn't be more proud of her pirate.

~~~ K & E ~~~