I have no clue where this came from. It's AU set in the Enchanted Forest. HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Disclaimer: I don't own these characters or this world no matter how much I wish I did.
Emma walked briskly down the road as the icy cold snowflakes landed on her skin. She pulled the worn brown cloak tighter around her shoulders as she shivered. Another gust of chilling wind hit her and left her feeling frozen. Tonight was a perfect example of the Enchanted Forest's harsh winter weather. Emma wished she was heading home to a house filled with warmth from a crackling fire and the loving embrace of a nurturing husband, but she was not. Her home would be col and empty when she arrived.
Tomorrow would be the start of a new year. She hated to think she'd be spending tonight alone. The King and Queen always sent out many beautiful glowing lanterns into the sky with the coming of the New Year. Emma knew the loneliness they felt because of the loss of their daughter. This year was different though, the Queen would be sending out the lanterns alone. The King was far away partaking in a war, the same war that Emma's husband was off fighting.
Emma reached her home, but stopped short. There was light coming from candles set in the windows. Someone was in there.
She pulled a knife from her corset and slowly approached the door. She took a breath and steadied herself. She swung the door open and it creaked loudly.
A man turned at the sound. He was standing by the fire, still in a navy officer's uniform.
Emma recognized him instantly and tears of joy brimmed her eyes. She made her way to him and he smiled at her. She pushed his dark hair away from his face and stared into his blue eyes. "You're, you're home," she said in disbelief.
"Aye, love, I am." He wrapped his arms around her torso.
"To stay?"
"Aye, to stay. The war is over." They simply held each other. "I've missed you darling more than I can ever say,"
They kissed for the first time in far too long as the King and Queen released the first lantern floating up to the stars.
It was short. Please Please Review! Happy New Year!