Chapter 2: Oceans
They leisurely walked along the docks, while Emma kept pointing out the different boats and ships that seemed to be available either for hire or for sale. However she soon found out that it wasn't going to be easy to find a suitable ship, as Killian had quickly found fault with every single one of them so far. Either too small, some were 'lost causes' (as in too much work to restore), others were the wrong type of ship (he didn't plan to turn into a fisherman), and finally some had other 'things' wrong with them – he'd explained why but she was unfamiliar with the whole sailing jargon, so in all honesty she didn't have a clue why he'd dismissed them, they all looked like fine looking ships to her.
"What about that one?" she asked excitedly, as she pointed out a beautiful modern yacht.
Killian rolled his eyes, "Emma do you see any sails on that monstrosity which pretends to be a boat?!" he said with a decent amount of irksomeness.
Emma sighed, "No, but that's because it has a motor engine. Come on, you've got to admit it's a great-looking ship!" Killian gave the yacht one last disgusted look, before briskly walking away.
Ok, then again maybe not, said Emma to herself. They'd almost done the entire length of the marina while Killian had become more irritated by the minute. As it was their first date, she hadn't really counted on his mood to turn as dark as a thunderstorm.
However as they reached the end of the dock, Emma saw a glint of excitement in Killian's blue eyes for the first time since they'd started to walk along the marina, and as she followed his gaze – she knew instantly why. She was absolutely stunning. She being a 52 ft long modern sailing yacht, with two large sails, beautiful decking and seating area and a blue and white painted hull – the cartouche where her name should've been added, noticeably left blank.
Emma gave his shoulder a nudge, "For a modern yacht," emphasizing the word 'modern', "She's not looking too bad, now is she Captain?" she smirked.
"There's no need to be so smug Swan, I still need to inspect her interior and take her for a spin – she'll be of no use to me if she can't sail."
Emma groaned in frustration, it was obvious they'd found his perfect match. "Fine, we'll ask the marina manager for the keys and some information."
It took a little persuasion from her part, before the manger let them take her out at sea, as he'd recognized Hook, and for obvious reasons he was rather reluctant to hand over the keys to a pirate. However with Emma being the town's Sheriff and as she entered all her details for insurance purposes, they were finally good to go.
They'd found out that the ship belonged to Prince Eric, or more accurately used to belong to him as he and Ariel were living their happily ever after far away from Storybrooke, unlikely to ever return.
While Killian was busy on deck getting the ship ready to set sail, Emma had a look at the living quarters, which didn't disappoint. Eric really had great taste furnishing her, though she wondered what Killian would make of all of this. The décor reminded her of those posh Hamptons' villas and hotels she'd seen in magazines. Cream coloured walls throughout with several pictures of sailing boats hanging on them, light coloured hardwood, and two seating areas spread over two levels, each with off-side access to the bedrooms. The Captain's Quarters had a large double bed, wardrobe, desk area and shower-room. While the other two bedrooms off the kitchen/diner area on the first level consisted of a single and a smaller double bedroom, also with a small desk and bathroom. Emma loved it all.
She grabbed one of the fluffy pillows and a warm blanket before re-joining Killian on deck, as he'd managed to steer them in the open water. Emma gave him a beaming smile before settling down on one of the lounge-beds, enjoying the wind in her hair and the glorious views over the bay, as the sea seemed to sparkle with millions of diamonds with the help of the sun. Apart from their traumatic journey to Neverland, she'd never been on the water before, but the more time she spent on deck watching Killian at the helm behind her, or adjusting the sails according to the wind, the more she enjoyed it. When he was finally satisfied with their set course, Emma saw him going below deck. He returned about 5 minutes later with two glasses and a bottle of rum.
"You did not…?!" She chided. Emma furrowed her brows giving him a disapproving stern look, while making room for him on the lounge-bed.
Killian raised his eyebrows in amusement "What can I say love, a Prince after my own heart!" he chuckled as he poured rum in her glass. While Emma disapproved of stealing the rum, she couldn't deny its soothing warmth the moment she drank the liquid. It was a lot cooler at sea, and even beneath the blanket she was shivering, which hadn't passed Killian's attention.
"Are you feeling cold love?" he asked with concern.
"A little." said Emma reluctantly, "but I'd hate to go inside and miss all this"
"Hang on." Killian disappeared again and returned with two more blankets, before asking Emma to stand up.
Draping one of the blankets across his shoulders, he let his head rest on the pillow before Emma lay down against his chest, and covered her with the two remaining blankets. With her head tucked snuggly under his chin, and sandwiched between warm fluffy blankets and her pirate, she'd never been more comfortable in her life.
"Better?" he asked softly.
"Hmmm, lots." replied Emma, as she felt she could easily fall asleep like this.
"So does she sail?" asked Emma gingerly.
"She sails." chuckled Killian. "I think we're getting along ok so far."
"You're still talking about her or me?" asked Emma with a coy smile.
"I hope both." he answered with a surprising sincerity, as he kissed the top of her head.
Emma snuggled even closer as she entwined her hand with his. "Since you've been below deck twice now and I didn't' hear you scream in horror, I assume you like the new quarters?"
"It's passable." He answered candidly.
Emma snorted, only Killian Jones would call this elegant Hamptons' look passable. "I don't think it needs much improving, I love it the way it is."
"Hmmm perhaps, but I think she could benefit from a woman's touch. I wouldn't be surprised if you were the first Lady who'd come aboard this ship in a long time." he said seductively.
Emma switched position, enough that she was able to gaze up at him. He looked so handsome with his windswept hair, flushed cheeks, his hooded oh so very blue eyes peeking through dark eyelashes, and kissable lips. Her stomach was fluttering like crazy, and she was about to tell him something equally flirtatious (What sort of a woman's touch did he have in mind? Which quarters were in most urgent need of her help?… and would it possibly include nightcaps?) But sadly all that came out was…
"Regina!" she exclaimed in alarm.
"Regina?!" He repeated incredulously. Killian knitted his brows together, as he sat up to have a proper look at his Swan girl, while glancing at the bottle of rum. Here he was doing his best to playfully flirt with his lady, and all she could say in return was the name of the Evil Queen?!
"I'm not drunk!" she said heatedly, as she saw him looking at the rum. "But…"
"But what, Swan? One minute I can feel you so close against me, and the next you've entirely tensed up. What is it love?" he asked with concern and just a hint of irritation.
Emma sat up as well and averted her gaze to the sea, still shining with its millions of sparkling diamonds. She felt awful, and it was all her fault.
Killian softly cradled her cheek, tilting her head slightly so that she looked back at him. "Emma, please talk to me…"
She could feel tears pricking in her eyes. "I'm happy." she told him with a watery smile as Killian brushed the first spilled tears from her cheek with his thumb. "I've never been happier. And being this happy and so close to you, made me realize I took this away from Regina… I took her chance at happiness away. She has every reason to be angry with me and I've no idea how to make it right." She sobbed.
Killian sighed, "Darling, I know you think I was right when I told you not to meddle with the past – but I was wrong. Now that we know the woman you saved is Marian, there's no doubt in my mind you did the right thing, love."
She gave him a sceptical look as more tears brimmed her eyes, "How is destroying someone's happiness the right thing?"
"Because the truth always finds a way of coming out; if you hadn't saved Marian – the Evil Queen would have executed her. I may not know Hood very well… but I doubt he would have stayed with Regina once he knew she was responsible for killing his wife. I don't think I have to tell you what such a revelation can do to a man… or the consequences…" he told her softly as a pained expression crossed his face.
"No… no you don't" she said barely louder than a whisper.
"I also know that Hood, no matter how much he loved his wife, managed to move on regardless – which is no mean feat I can assure you." as he locked his blue eyes with her green ones. "That's why thanks to your intervention, there's still hope for them. Sometimes you have to move on from love, to find true happiness." He gave her a shaky smile, as he saw her eyes searching his face for answers to the burning question that was left hanging in the air. An answer Emma knew she didn't really have the right to demand from him, but one he gave her none the less, because he wasn't able to deny her anything.
He cradled her face as he pressed his forehead against her. "You… Emma" he breathed. "I'll always choose you… my Love."
And in that moment, everything changed. The very last remnants of her walls crumbled into nothingness, as she realized she didn't just love Killian Jones, she truly loved him – she was prepared to do anything for him like he would for her; what he'd already done, she corrected herself as he gave up his entire life and home just because it was the right thing to do. She had to stop pushing him away and running away from her feelings. She had to stop being wary, because Killian Jones had become a part of her – he owned her heart and soul. They were friends, partners, lovers, kindred spirits – she couldn't imagine her life without him. If she'd learned anything at all it was that time was precious. Liam had almost lost Killian due to illness just because some evil task-master wanted to make an example. While she damn well knew that being the Savior, villains and curses would continue to be a part of her life. She owed it to Liam as much as to them, to be happy, and to cherish every single moment. She'd always been afraid to say those words to him - the words that mean so much. Yes she got her heart broken many times, but she knew her heart was safe with him; she was no longer scared. They belonged together; they were each other's home.
"I love you." She breathed against his lips.
Killian's eyes flew wide-open, sure that he was dreaming… that he was imagining things…
"What did you say?" he asked, his voice trembling with emotion as he gazed up at her, seeing her love for him reflected in her emerald eyes.
Emma cupped his beautiful face as she repeated her words, louder this time. "I love you Killian Jones, I love you with all my heart." She said with a warm smile, as she revelled how easy those words tumbled from her lips.
Killian closed his eyes, as he felt tears were about to spill over his cheeks. It'd been over 300 years since he last heard those words. No one had cared about him in this way since Milah…no one had cared about him at all – until Emma, his Emma who he'd gladly follow to the end of the world, and time.
But he had to be sure he wasn't dreaming…
"Again…" he breathed, swallowing hard while still unable to re-open his eyes.
"I love you", repeated Emma before kissing his tears away.
"Again…" his voice broke as he was simply overwhelmed by her love washing over him like a soothing balm, ready to heal all his scars.
"I love you… my Love, and I always will." She kissed his furrowed brow, before rubbing their noses and pressed feather-light kisses across his jaw, as he held her close. For the first time it was her turn to comfort him, knowing she'd managed to break through some of his walls and the waves of emotions this could bring to the surface. But she wasn't going anywhere, no matter what – she'd help him through it.
"Again…" he pleaded through hooded blue eyes, filled to the brim with love and gratitude.
"I love you" she would tell him again, again and again, until she was sure he believed her, as she brushed her lips tenderly against his between every declaration.
Her lips finally claimed his in a searing kiss, and when the kiss deepened she could feel that familiar (whoosh) as a result from her magic. The world seemed to stop – and for one glorious second it was just about them and their love. She was relieved to see him smiling again, before he tenderly tugged on her bottom lip. She kissed him back, until she felt a sudden cold harsh breeze against her face.
When she opened her eyes again, all she could do was breathe his name as she held on to the lapels of his coat for dear life. Seeing her panic-stricken face he followed her gaze, to see that she'd somehow managed to make the ship fly! Both sails were effulgent with a white-coloured light, emanating from her magic.
"I believe my Love, that you're the one captaining the ship now." He told her calmly but amused. The last thing he wanted to do was to scare her even more. Killian's arms encircled her, holding her close against his chest once more, as he could feel Emma was stressed out of her wits with the current situation they'd found themselves in.
"But… how… how do we get back down?!" she asked aghast, utterly terrified that they were now flying over the Atlantic Ocean, as the ship seemed to pick up even more pace. It was her magic, no one else but her was responsible for their predicament and it horrified her.
"I don't know," said Killian truthfully. "But if we follow the same principles as pixie dust, thinking about returning to Storybrooke should be enough… and believing of course – though I gather that won't be a problem." He gave her a reassuring smile. "This is light magic, your magic Emma. Trust your gut, love. It will be alright. Just think of home."
Emma looked bewildered around her, seeing nothing but endless blue skies and white clouds with the ocean beneath them. She tried to control her breathing and calm down a little, before she went on to follow his advice and closed her eyes, as she tried to picture Storybrooke. She thought of her parents and meeting them later for pancakes, Henry riding his new bike, and her future with Killian – he belonged with her in Storybrooke, their home.
To her visible relief, slowly but surely they were descending; and when the ship flew through one very fluffy cloud, they were able to see Storybrooke and the docks below.
"There you go, love. What did I tell you?" Killian's blue eyes sparkled with pride as he could feel her relaxing against his chest. "You've got the making of a fine Captain, Swan." He told her warmly before kissing the top of her head.
The ship eventually landed softly on the open waters of Storybrooke, close to its bay.
Still shocked by the entire terrifying adventure, Emma left the remainder of the sailing to Killian. She poured herself quite a large glass of rum to steady her nerves, while he returned to the helm to steer her back into her berth.
"We're back safe and sound." Killian smiled as he sat back down next to Emma on the lounge-bed, after he finished mooring the ship.
"I really am sorry." Emma told him with a small voice.
Killian furrowed his brows, "Whatever for, love?"
"I should be able to control my magic by now!" She said with exasperation. "I put you in danger…if something had happened to you…" Emma shook her head as her voice faltered. "It's not right Killian, I made her fly and I'm not even sure how I did it."
"Would it help if I said I never felt in any danger? I actually quite liked flying the skies with you Swan. I admit a bit of a warning would have been welcome, and perhaps knowing beforehand how to descend might have improved the overall experience, but otherwise I certainly had a lot of fun" he chuckled.
"How do you do it?" Emma asked in awe as she locked her eyes with his. "How do you keep finding new ways of supporting me, never bringing me down or make me feel bad about myself? What's your secret?"
Killian smiled to himself, before he gently cupped her cheek "My secret… Emma is very simple… I love you, and I've loved you for quite some time and I will keep loving you until the end of my days." he said softly, meaning every single word he said. "Therefore I will protect you against any harm or wrongs, even if it's self-inflicted; I simply won't stand for it." He shrugged.
Emma silently cursed herself for the absolute idiot she'd been every time she had walked away from him. But no more. He was standing here in front of her, loving her and she loved him in return and would never tire of telling him just that.
"I love you too…" Emma watched Killian's reaction to her words with a shy smile, as he was looking at her with such reverence. She leaned in and kissed him tenderly, before he broke the kiss and brushed his nose adoringly against her.
"Just so you know Swan, I've a feeling how you got this fine ship to fly…" He gazed into her eyes, in which he quickly saw her realizing it as well.
Killian brushed a strand of her beautiful blonde windswept hair away from her face, before he asked with a playful smile and a raised eyebrow "When we kissed before, what were you thinking of?"
Emma returned his smile "Heaven… I was thinking about heaven."
~~~ K & E ~~~
Once returned on solid ground, reality bit back rather harshly. Luckily no one had witnessed the ship flying up into the air, but when they returned the keys, the marina manager gave them a very disapproving look as he pointed to his watch – "I expected your return two hours ago, Miss Swan!"
"We really do apologize for the inconvenience… there was a small… 'hiccup'." said Emma deploringly. "Nothing's wrong with the ship though," she added quickly as she saw his worried and nervous look, "The truth is… we decided to watch some TV and we both fell asleep… you know, the sea air and all that made me tired, us tired…" she said with a nervous laugh. Emma didn't dare to look at Killian, knowing he was most likely giving her a look similar to "Bloody hell Swan?!"
The manager wasn't amused, but as she was the Sheriff he let this one go. "Well if you're still interested in buying her, here's the brochure and details including the asking price", emphasizing those last words with a sneer.
Killian gave it one quick glance and his heart fell, there was no chance he could afford her. "Come along Swan, we had fun and that's enough." As he tried not to sound too disappointed. While Killian briskly walked out of the office, Emma stayed behind for just a quick moment before re-joining him outside.
Emma tilted her head "You ok?" she asked him gently.
Killian gave her one of his best smiles, the ones which lit up his eyes as he took her in his arms. "The woman I love, told me she loved me too today… I'm better than ok, Love", he winked before kissing her.
Emma knew full well he was mightily disappointed, and that he'd do anything to stop her worrying about him. This is definitely something they'd need to work on in the future; as it became blatantly apparent she had broken through some of his walls but not all of them…
She hadn't said anything but at the start of the trip she'd tried to do some sums in her head, trying to guess the asking price. She'd actually guessed too high by quite a margin, still getting accustomed to the fact that this was Storybrooke, NOT New York or the 'real world'.
She knew he'll probably be angry at her, but damn it she was going to get him his ship, his home no matter the consequences.
Emma was forced to break the kiss, as her cell started to beep like mad with the sound of half a dozen missed messages. They'd returned to the wonderful world where there was cell phone reception.
Two were from the real-estate agent confirming everything was in order and that he'd received the deposit. Three were from Snow asking if she and Killian would be coming round later and if so if they could bring a gallon of milk. The last one was from Henry, which simply said: 'new bike =)'.
Back to reality indeed!
"Do you want to go to my parents' place with me?" she asked sweetly.
Killian smiled "Of course I would Swan" as he wished to stay in her company a while longer. "But if you don't mind, I'd like to return to Granny's first and wash the clouds out of my hair", he couldn't help but tease her.
The look on Emma's face was priceless as she turned to Killian like a 12 year old kid begging her best friend not to tell on her. "Please promise me you won't tell them about the entire me-flying-the-ship-thing, they've got enough on their plates with baby Neal, I don't want them to worry about my stupid magic." she implored.
Killian rolled his eyes, "Your magic is not stupidEmma, it's a thing of beauty… but I agree that it's probably for the best if our little adventure in the skies remains our secret. I won't mention it to them." He promised before kissing her brow.
They returned to the inn to get some of their bearings. It had been a very emotional exhausting day for the both of them and Emma's first day with no walls had proved to be a challenge. She knew she had to make some adjustments especially when it concerned her magic, as she was convinced it had grown considerably in power now that she fully accepted that she was in love. Since she couldn't go to Regina anymore, maybe it wouldn't be such a bad idea to seek Mr. Gold's advice.
She went out to get the milk her parents had asked for, before she caught up with Killian in the hallway as he was just closing his door.
"All ready to go Emma?" he asked warmly, before he sighed and bit his bottom lip when he saw her. "Oh… Love" he said with pity.
"This is beyond embarrassing! I mean…what the hell?! We've just parted for like 30 minutes… this is… I hate it, it's ridiculous… it's got to stop!" Emma said hotly as her cheeks were flushed deep red again, just like earlier that morning – it felt like she couldn't breathe as she looked at him. She knew it'd pass in a moment but this was far from being funny.
Killian pulled her towards him, until she was flush against his chest. The sound of his beating heart had calmed her down earlier, so he was hoping it'd help a second time around.
"Actually I find this endearing Swan. I knew I was devilishly handsome of course, but I never thought I'd quite have such a profound effect on women…" his voice was filled with humour trying to cheer her up.
It only took a minute or two before Emma felt herself go back to 'normal', Killian had taken a shower, his hair was still a wet sexy mess and he smelled unbelievably good – yeah maybe that's why she'd tumbled again she tried to convince herself, though there really was no logical explanation.
After making sure she was fine, they soon found themselves on her parents' landing. "You know what? I'm going to cast an anti-blushing spell on myself next time before we meet…" Emma told him with authority.
Killian shook his head, "Emma, I doubt that would be a good…"
"Oh hey, there you two are! I knew I'd heard voices, come in!" said Snow excitedly as she opened the door for them to get into the loft, before Emma gave her mother a warm hug and asked how everyone was doing.
"Thanks for bringing the milk by the way, your father had started on the pancake batter, but then found out we didn't have any left. To be honest we were both too tired to leave the apartment, as your baby brother didn't fancy sleeping at all today – or last night." Said Snow with a tired smile.
"Shall I leave… I really don't want to impose." asked Killian as he suddenly felt he didn't belong with Emma's family.
Emma gave him a searching look, as she saw him swallowing hard.
"Nonsense! If we can't have guests over when we're feeling tired, we won't be entertaining for the next decade or so… anyways sleep is overrated! You two sit yourselves down at the counter. David is giving Neal a bath, but he shouldn't be long; meanwhile you can tell me about your day" smiled Snow.
Emma and Killian shared a look, before pulling up the chairs and sat down.
"It was rather uneventful, really." said Emma as she silently hoped her blushing cheeks wouldn't betray her; she knew she was an awful liar when her loved ones were concerned.
"What was rather uneventful?" asked David as he came down the stairs, smiling warmly.
"Hi dad" Emma welcomed him with a beaming smile before giving him a hug.
David cradled his daughter's head like he always does. "Well my daughter calling me dad for a third time is eventful enough for me" he said pleasantly surprised.
"Are you keeping count… dad?" teased Emma.
David laughed, "Maybe I won't need to, if you keep saying it" as Emma kissed his cheek.
He gave Killian a welcoming pat on the shoulder; before he went on to start making the pancakes.
"So how did you spend your day? I believe Henry was interested in showing you some apartment?" asked Snow.
Emma actually had to blink a few times, before she remembered she'd actually acquired her own place earlier that day. So much had happened later with Killian and the ship, it'd momentarily skipped her mind altogether.
"Right! About that… well we did get to view it and I signed the lease, so yeah…" said Emma casually.
"Hang on, you're telling me you found a new place to stay, your very own home in Storybrooke – and according to you this was an uneventful day?" exclaimed Snow as she looked incredulously at her daughter.
Emma and Killian shared another quick glance, as Killian ran his tongue over his bottom lip. As exciting as it had been getting the apartment this morning, it didn't really compare to magically flying a ship above the ocean after sharing a profound life-changing moment with the person who was currently sitting next to her.
"I believe what Emma means, is that signing a lease of an apartment isn't as exciting as jumping through time-portals or defeating villains" smiled Killian meekly.
Emma silently thanked Killian for this nice save, "Yes, that's exactly what I meant… I think I might still be under his… I mean the time-portal's spell or something" as she saw a quizzical look cross her parents' features.
"But yes, we have found a place to live and it's really nice, the perfect size, right by the docks. Henry and I decided to have our stuff sent over from New York. So I was wondering if you could help me with the move? We'll have to cross the town's line and go to Cape Elizabeth to get everything, but it's really nearby!" she informed them.
"Of course we'll help you with the move! Just let me know when you need the truck" said David before presenting Emma and Killian their first pancake drizzled with maple syrup.
"Well, for one think this is all very exciting" remarked Snow. "What did you make of the apartment, Killian?" she asked with keen interest.
"We're not moving in together!" blurted Emma suddenly, before she could hear a loud clatter when a stunned Killian dropped his fork on the plate. She hadn't meant to say it, but the words had come out from their own accord. Any normal person would have shown their boyfriend, though she hated that word for Killian, their brand new apartment – especially considering they met up nearby this morning. But no, Emma Swan didn't do normal; they went sailing instead, before flying over the damn ocean. She'd barely mentioned the apartment to him.
"Wonderful, that's everything any concerned father wishes to hear!" joked David.
Snow rolled her eyes, "David honestly… Emma, I really didn't mean to pry -I just wanted to know what Killian thought of the place."
"I haven't exactly seen the apartment yet… we were rather… tired today… but… I think you said we'd go… we'd go and see it… tomorrow?" Killian stammered as he turned his glance to Emma with notable flushed cheeks.
"Yup… tomorrow…." She answered him with an apologetic smile. This was turning into 20 questions with her parents, something her increasing headache wasn't able to cope with. Desperate to switch the subject from the events of the day, there was however something she'd wanted to ask her father.
"Now that we're all staying in Storybrooke, do you think Killian would be able to join the Sheriff's office?"
Killian sighed; this really wasn't the time or place.
David gave it some thought before he turned to Killian and answered "I can't see why not. I believe Killian has Storybrooke's best interests at heart, he's proven that often enough. I know we've had our differences in the past, but you're part of the family now. In case you'd like to come and work for the family-business, I would be very happy to welcome you" he smiled.
To hear Charming say that he was now part of the family made his heart soar, but he still had too many reservations about working at the Sheriff's office.
"Listen mate, I really appreciate your kind words and the opportunity but I don't think I'd be the right man for the job…"
"What are you talking about?" asked Emma incredulously as her ecstatic grin following her father's approval, was replaced by concern.
"Love, you saw what happened at the docks this afternoon. My reputation precedes me, and I very much doubt the criminals or anyone else in this town for that matter… would take my authority seriously." He told her softly.
"I wouldn't sell myself this short, if I were you, Killian. You helped saving this town and many lives on numerous occasions. You helped defeating villains, you saved my life and you brought my daughter home to us. You really are a man of honor. I'm sure it's just a matter of time before the town recognizes that."
"I don't know mate… perceptions and opinions are often not that easy to change" he said dully.
"On that note, I really owe you a massive apology Killian… I know I've been rather harsh with you in the past" said Snow as Killian made a hand gesture that this really wasn't necessary.
"No let me finish… all we ever wanted was for Emma to be happy and you made that happen for her. Charming and I will always be grateful to you for that" she told him with a large smile before she went on to take him in a motherly embrace.
Emma looked on with a beaming smile, knowing full well what this approval meant to him.
Killian was floored by the sudden wave of emotions washing over him, as he realized he actually gained a family today. Milah had been his family of course and he'd tried to be a father-figure to Bae until he'd rejected him. But in truth he'd always missed someone like Liam in his life… someone who he could go to for support, advice and camaraderie. The knowledge that David was standing behind him, meant everything. As for parental love, he never got a chance to experience much of it as their mother had died soon after he was born. While their father had abandoned them when he was 12, and fled the realm as a fugitive. To the outside world he'd always made sure that they would only see the cocky and self-assured pirate, but the Charmings and Emma had changed all that – they allowed him to be himself. It might still take a while before he opened up entirely in front of Snow and David; but the fact that they honestly cared about him, was more than he'd ever hoped for.
The moment was broken by the sounds of baby Neal crying through the monitor. "Your turn, I believe!" David addressed Snow with a wink.
While Snow went to take care of Neal, Emma placed her hand affectionately on Killian's shoulder, his current emotions bare for all to see.
"I meant what I said last night; you really are a hero Killian. The town will see that, I know they will."
Killian gave her a watery smile "I promise I'll think about it, it's just one of those things I have to figure out first… if that's ok?"
Emma tilted her head "Of course it's ok…" before she pressed their foreheads together, momentarily oblivious of their surroundings, "I love you" the words tumbled for her lips with such a familiarity, even though she'd only started saying them a few hours ago.
"I love you too, Love" Killian smiled against her lips, which he captured tenderly, deepening the kiss when he could feel Emma's hands tangling themselves at the back of his head, just before they got interrupted…
"Ahem!" coughed Snow loudly as she came down the stairs with Neal in her arms. Killian and Emma broke away slowly, "I'm sorry, I got so caught up in the moment, I forgot where we were…" she whispered as she looked at him abashed.
"So did I…" he acknowledged, blinking a few times to clear his head.
The both of them were blushing profusely, as they almost didn't dare to make eye-contact with David, who'd barely been 3 feet away from witnessing the start of another passionate make-out session between his mate and his daughter.
David had been startled into silence, shooting Killian a thunderous look, while Snow couldn't help but beam at them.
"Yeah I can see now why this was such an uneventful day." She snorted as she gave Emma a discerning glance. "It's one thing to know that a person loves you, but it's something very special when you can hear that person say it… and said in return." Snow smiled brightly, before she laid the baby in his crib.
While Killian averted his gaze, still too embarrassed to look anyone in the eye; Emma stood up to address her parents. "I did learn something important today and it's something I wished I could have done – or say, a lot sooner. I know you've both been incredibly patient with me, and it's not always been easy with the curses and villains, but… I just really wanted you both to know how much you guys mean to me. You're my family… my mom and dad… and I love you." said Emma as tears started to brim in her eyes.
"Oh Emma, come here" urged Snow, as David joined his girls in a tight embrace. "We love you too sweetheart, but if you could try to keep the tongue-action to a minimum when I'm around, I'll love you even more." Emma couldn't help but giggle, as she locked her eyes on Killian "We'll try our best!"
Just when the baby started to cry again, there was a knock on the door. "That will probably be Henry, I texted him we'd be here when he returned from Regina's" said Emma.
Sure enough Henry entered the loft with a wide smile, "Hey everyone!"
Henry sat down next to Killian, while his grandfather was busy behind the stove again.
"So kid, I assume from your text earlier that Regina's on board with that bike of yours?"
"Not only did she approve, we went to the bike-store this afternoon and she got me one, I left it on the landing." as he tucked into his pancake.
Emma furrowed her brows. "Well that was fast…"
"Says the one who leased the apartment after just 5 minutes…" chuckled Henry.
Emma scrunched up her nose, "Yeah you got me there… hey about the apartment, your wonderful granddad here offered to help with the move so if everything goes well in New York we should be moving in by end of the week, how does that sound?
"Awesome! I love Storybrooke but I did start to miss my stuff from New York."
"Your Xbox you mean?" teased Emma.
Henry looked exasperated, "Not just that mom…"
"What's this x box?" asked Killian with sincere interest.
"It's a video game console!" Henry told him excitedly. "You wait, I'll teach you how to play – it's loads of fun, and there are quite a few Pirate-themed games out now as well, I think you'll like them!"
"As in fighting real-life pirates?" asked Killian in alarm.
"No, it's all pretend. But you do have sword fights and can fire muskets; you can seek out their buried treasures, command pirate ships and engage a full-on canon battle with your enemies at sea. It's all good fun."
Killian arched his eyebrows "Sounds positively gruesome!" he remarked. "Emma, you really let your boy play these games?"
"Well it's not like I'm letting him play Assassin's Creed or anything like that…. Really it's fine!" Emma reassured him as she saw Killian knitting his brows together in mixed confusion and disapproval.
"We'll have fun, trust me!" said Henry with a large grin.
While Emma took baby Neal in her arms, she couldn't help but inquire about Regina, especially as she feared she might have gone to her vault to plan her demise… "How was Regina doing by the way?" she asked tentatively.
"She was a bit more quiet than usual, but otherwise great. She didn't mention you at all, in case you wanted to know. I remember you were worried this morning, so whatever it was you think she'd be mad at you for – it mustn't have been such a big deal."
"If only I could believe that…" she said quietly shooting a look at Killian's direction.
When she saw her mother yawn, Emma saw it as their cue to leave. In fairness she herself was feeling utterly spent after this very long day filled with highs and lows (literally!). Her headache had worsened, and something else… something she couldn't quite put her finger on, but it was there. She sensed it, whatever it was – perhaps it was residual magic she concluded.
"I think we're going to head back to Granny's, it's been a long day…"
"But mom I only had two pancakes and haven't even said hello to Neal yet" Henry protested.
"Henry, your grandparents could probably need some rest… and it's already almost 8.30 pm." admonished Emma.
"He can stay a while longer if he wants to Emma, I'll make sure he gets back to the inn in one piece… and I'd like to take a look at his bike anyway." David smiled widely, giving Henry a wink.
"Ok that's fine with me" she smiled, "but we're going to leave you to it, as I'm beat." Emma handed her baby brother back to Snow.
"You do look tired Emma, are you sure you're feeling ok? You're looking a bit flushed." said Snow in concern, as she touched her daughter's brow.
"I'm sure it's fine mom, been blushing most of today…" Emma laughed as she gave Killian a knowing look, which she'd expected him to answer with a smirk or a playful raise of his eyebrows; but she was surprised to see a disquieting expression cross his features instead.
Snow too was worried "Killian, make sure she gets to rest soon, she does feel warm."
"You have my word." said Killian solemnly.
Before Emma and Killian left the loft, they finalized a time for tomorrow when it'd be the most convenient for her parents to view her new apartment. David parted with Killian with a curt nod, while Snow gave him a warm hug and whispered words of thanks. Emma knew she'd made her parents very happy tonight and hugged them both tightly, before telling her son not to stay too late.
~~~ K & E ~~~
A bright starry-filled sky and chilly air welcomed Emma and Killian as they slowly walked the streets of Storybrooke on their way back to the inn.
"I love my parents and I'm quite proud of myself I've finally been able to tell them, but that was mostly… awkward" cringed Emma. "At least we managed to keep our adventure under wraps" she smiled.
"Are you alright Killian? You've gone all quiet on me…" she remarked with trepidation.
"Sorry… Love" as he entwined his hand with hers. "I'm not sure what to make of today… or how I came to deserve it. It's hard to believe I've a family again." His voice was shaky and his blue eyes filled with emotion, while he found it hard to swallow. It wasn't easy to convey into words what he'd felt earlier and how grateful he was.
Emma stopped and locked her eyes on his, as she tenderly cupped his cheek. "You deserve to be happy, Killian." She spoke softly. "You're the one who made me believe, truly believe that I was worthy of love. Granted it took me a while to fully accept it, but I'd never been able to without you. I just want you to know how unbelievably fortunate I feel to have you in my life, and in my family's life. You belong with usnow… Though on second thought I'd think it'd be better to say you're well and truly stuck with us, even if David looked like he wanted to murder you at some point!" She told him with a playful laugh.
Blissful warmth spread across his chest, realizing he was experiencing one of those precious good moments for a third time today. He was utterly enthralled by the beautiful woman standing before him, still not quite believing that she was truly his. His brave, selfless, heroic, strong-minded, tough, funny, powerful and loving Emma, who helped him become the man he is today – making him whole again. Not a day will go by, he wouldn't make sure to tell her how much she is loved. He captured her lips in a tender kiss, grazing his thumb across her jaw.
When they broke for air, she saw his entire demeanour change in a heartbeat the second he cupped her cheek and brushed her brow.
"Emma, we need to get you to bed – you're burning up!" Killian's voice was stern while worry flashed across his eyes.
"Killian, there was something I…" she started in protest.
"No buts Emma!" he admonished in his authoritative tone as Captain. He draped his leather coat over her shoulders against the chilly air; luckily the inn wasn't that far away anymore.
While Emma asked him to get Granny to prepare some tea with honey and lemon, she passed Ruby at reception before heading to her room.
"Oh it's YOU!" Ruby exclaimed enthusiastically. "I was wondering who was so deeply in love, I could smell it four blocks away" she smiled brightly. "Don't have to guess who the lucky guy is, now do I?" she teased.
Emma couldn't help but feel slightly embarrassed. "Four blocks away huh?"
"There's no need to blush, it's nice to see… well smell such one large fluffy love aura."
"A large fluffy love aura?" Emma repeated timidly with furrowed brows. "Thanks Ruby…"
"You're welcome, and I couldn't be happier for the two of you!" she said sincerely, while passing her an envelope that was left for her.
Emma smiled meekly before taking the stairs. By the time Killian came to her room, she'd taken a quick warm shower and was just settling into bed in her comfy pj's. Not only had Killian brought her tea, Granny had also given him water and aspirin, another blanket, as well as a chocolate brownie and a sandwich, in case she was still hungry – which she definitely wasn't. Her headache was pounding however, perhaps as a result of the slight fever, so she instantly swallowed the aspirin, before sipping the tea.
Killian sat down next to her on the bed. "I've asked Granny to change rooms, so if you and Henry need anything throughout the night, I'll be right next door." He gestured to the communicating door.
Emma noticed the worried lilt in his voice and deep concern across his features. She grasped his hand in hers and touched his wrist with the other. "Hey, it's just a cold – I'll be fine by tomorrow" she reassured him with a smile.
Killian sighed, and couldn't help but feel responsible, "Going sailing was a bad idea Swan, I should have forced you to go inside the second I saw you shivering."
Emma tilted her head to the side, "It's not your fault the clouds don't seems to agree with me." She laughed softly hoping to cheer him up. It really was none of his fault, especially since she had a feeling there was something else going on with her.
Killian shook his head and dropped his gaze. "I wished we hadn't searched for a ship… I knew something was wrong earlier…" he started in a cracked voice before Emma abruptly interrupted him.
"Please don't say that…" She pleaded while softly stroking his hand with her thumb. "I admit the flying wasn't much fun – well mostly unexpected. But otherwise I loved every second we were on the ship. I felt at home with you, sailing the ocean. It helped me open up completely – something I didn't think would ever be possible or certainly not this soon… considering I was so afraid – even when we met this morning" she smiled softly.
Killian leaned in to gently kiss her forehead, before Emma let go of his hand to reach for something in the drawer of her bedside table. Something which was in the envelope Ruby had given her, as a result of her arrangements before going to see her parents.
"There's something I wanted to give you earlier… well I thought to let you wait outside and give them to you under the stars but then… anyways these are yours." Emma dropped a bunch of keys in Killian's hand, smiling brightly. Keys he instantly recognized and made his stomach flip.
"Bloody hell Swan, tell me you didn't?!" His voice was clipped and his expression furious. He could feel rage building in his gut, as he looked at the keys in his hand. The ship, she'd given him the ship. His mouth felt dry and he could feel his heart thundering in his chest. He had a good idea why she'd done it – she'd done it out of guilt, and he simply wouldn't accept it. He'd traded the Jolly Roger for a magic bean with the only hope that he'd find her in New York and bring her back home. He didn't want anything else in return, he'd never even have mentioned it if it wasn't for Emma asking for an explanation.
"I can't accept this Emma." His jaw tightened and he spoke harshly, his blue eyes ablaze with resentment.
Emma knew she had to thread carefully, she'd expected him to be angry – but not this angry she had to admit, as he was positively livid with her. She knew he thought she'd bought her because of the Jolly Roger but there was more to it than that…
Emma took a deep breath before she began "Killian, The Jolly Roger was your home…"
"Damn it Emma! I'd gladly give up her up again in a heartbeat, right now if I had to!" He furrowed his brows, his voice laced with exasperation.
"Please hear me out…" she implored with tired eyes. Killian's features softened dramatically, recollecting she wasn't well. "I know you would… but The Jolly Roger wasn't just your ship. You spent over 300 years in each other's company, she was like a friend to you, family even, and you gave her up just to find me." Killian swallowed hard and rolled his eyes with frustration. "I know you think I've given you this ship just out of guilt – but in truth it's also because I know you belong on the sea. I fell in love with a pirate after all." She smiled softly and tenderly cupped his cheek making him face her. "The sea is a part of you Killian. I saw how happy you were this afternoon, completely at ease and carefree adjusting the sails and steering the helm. Shewill never replace The Jolly Roger I know…but you told me that she did sail, so she must have impressed the great Captain Killian Jones a little bit?" she asked gingerly.
Killian answered her by a slight tilt of the corners of his lips. She was right of course. From the moment Liam took him aboard his first ship as a 12 year old cabin boy, he knew he'd found his real home. The sea had captured his heart and soul from that day forward. Ever-changing, wild, tempestuous, yet somehow always familiar, a contradiction maybe… but it was home. As much as he felt angry with her, in truth he had really missed living on a ship since his return to Storybrooke. His accommodation at Granny's couldn't compare to the soothing sounds of the water lapping against the hull, the cracking of the wood or the wind blowing into the sails. Ships have personalities and he'd be lying if he said he didn't like her. He had tried a few manoeuvres and she'd responded quickly and with ease – he couldn't deny he'd been impressed with her performance.
Seeing the tiniest of smiles appear on his face made Emma hope she was getting through to him. "I don't know anything about ships or how to sail, but I can't tell you how glad I was when she listened to me when I wanted her to return to the water. It might sound strange, but I really think she understood how scared I was… I've a feeling we could be getting along fine as well." She smiled brightly.
Killian knew better than most what Emma meant, and it wasn't strange at all for ships to understand their captain, especially magical ships. He had thousands of conversations with The Jolly Roger over the years; not only did she listen to him but often comforted him as well – the sounds of the cracking and murmurings of her magical wood managed to calm him down on many occasions.
He was certain that Emma wouldn't have been able to make her fly, if the ship wasn't magical. Together with the fact that she seemed happy to listen to two captains, made her very special indeed. The way Emma spoke about the ship made him curious, as the only way he could possibly contemplate accepting her would be if she'd be willing to be welcome his offer, though he still had many doubts.
"Emma I saw how much they were asking… it's too much love." He told her in a gentle voice, the anger within him had abated while his heart rate had returned to normal.
Emma sighed, "Our trip to the past made me realize more than ever before that I'm the daughter of a Prince and a Princess. Not just fairy tale characters in the Enchanted Forest, but rulers over a Kingdom - with their people looking up to them and doing all they can to help them. If we went back to the Enchanted Forest tomorrow, don't you think they'd reward you – the man who sacrificed so much to save their daughter? They'd probably give you titles and lands and castles… or at least I'd make them do it!"
Killian raised his eyebrows. "Swan, I highly doubt…" but Emma shushed him by placing her finger against his lips.
"However since we're in Storybrooke," she continued "giving you a ship is the least and the right thing to do. As for the money, you don't need to worry on that account – I still had plenty left from the missing year. It can't be said Regina wasn't generous when she filled my bank account to give Henry and me a good life…" She told him coyly.
"Just teach me about the stars and give Henry some sailing lessons, and we'll call it even! What do you say Jones?" Emma asked warmly.
Killian locked his blue eyes with her green ones, "I say… that I know by now when I'm bested, love." He laughed softly, while a triumphant expression crossed Emma's features.
"On one condition though, and I won't waver from it…" he apprised in his commanding voice, arching one of his eyebrows. Letting her know he was being serious.
"Go on…" urged Emma tentatively.
"I hereby offer you my services as Captain, Your Highness." Killian bowed his head while Emma gaped in bewilderment.
"What the hell?! Killian… no… I won't accept this…" she trailed off.
"This is the only way I can see this working for me, my Love, is when I know that I'm following my Commander's – my Princess's orders with anything that involves the ship."
Emma gulped nervously, "Fine, than I command you to just take the ship… it's yours!"
Killian tilted his head and smiled, "It will be my pleasure to teach you and Henry how to sail. You're right Emma; she obeyed your orders because she respected you as her Captain. She belongs to you."
Emma looked up at him defiantly, "Since she listens to the both of us, it's only fitting that I command you to treat her as ours."
"Ours!" she repeated stubbornly.
"All right." He conceded, as it would do no good to continue to quarrel especially with Emma needing to rest. "But you'll have the final say in all decisions."
Emma knitted her brows together, "That's just another way of saying that I can boss you around!" she remarked in dismay.
"As you wish." he shrugged with a mischievous glint in his eyes.
Emma rolled her eyes and groaned with frustration, "Are you always going to be this difficult whenever I give you something?"
Killian smiled sheepishly "Apologies love. Forgive this ol' pirate who's been presented with a family, a partner, and a home in one day and hardly knows how to make sense of it all. But I will get better at it, I promise," He kissed her brow, before whispering how much he loved her.
"I love you too." she breathed.
"What shall we call her, this new home of ours?" he asked softly.
Emma didn't need any time to think, the answer was obvious. "Swan & Jones, of course." She told him with a beaming smile, before she rested her head on the pillow.
Killian smiled back and covered her with the extra blanket Granny had given him earlier. "You get some sleep now Emma. I'll stay here until Henry returns… and will make sure to tell him not to worry." He promised as he anticipated what she was about to ask him.
"Thank you, Killian" she murmured, before reaching for his hand with hers.
"Good night, love."
By the time he returned with a book from his room, Emma had fallen asleep. Killian was shattered as well, though luckily for him Henry didn't take long to arrive and he soon found himself next door in his own bed. He hoped Emma was going to be ok in the morning, before his mind wondered back to David's offer to join them at the Sheriff's station. He had so many doubts; not only about the Town's reaction, but also how it would affect his relationship with Emma and David, as he'd hate to cause conflict because of work. In the end he decided that perhaps consulting an old friend wouldn't be such a bad idea, before sleep finally claimed him as well.
~~~K & E ~~~
