As the shore grew closer, Emma contemplated different ways to cheer Killian up. After breakfast he had lost his attitude, but he still seemed to be upset. According to Liam, this was likely to last all day. It seemed strange to her that he should detest one single day of the year, but then she had never known one day to hold much significance. There was no singular important date in her life, though she wished there was. Her birthday was never celebrated, except for a gift from her mother, and no other days held any importance. She assumed her wedding day was one such day, but with her dreading the days leading up to the wedding, she had an inkling that it was not to be a happy day.

"Stay next to me when we disembark." Killian spoke quietly. He had said little since the ordeal that morning, both at breakfast and before. His voice wasn't hard or cold. It seemed like for now the unusual morning had been forgotten, or at least put behind him. He made no comments on their time together that early morning. She tried not to let this bother her, because she was sure that he had been enjoying himself as well given his relaxed state. Looking back on the moment, she was happy that at least the start of his day was good, if you excused the nightmares he surely had.

She spared a glance at him. His shoulders were tense, like he was expecting an attack from every side. She wondered if he was being on edge due to this day, or if it was because of their approaching stop.

The land was clear now. The village was quite small, though there were clearly crowds in some of the stores. This was probably one of the only posts for hours in these woods. The forest was thick behind the shops, and she felt a momentary panic rise up that had been instilled in her during her time at the palace. Wooded areas were dangerous. You never knew who or what was lurking behind the next tree, or what types of animals roamed freely. Tales of imps and dragons had long kept her from going as far as to hide in the forest surrounding her own kingdom.

Perceptive as he was, Killian took note of her tension. "If you do not wish to go anywhere, that is alright."

She shook her head. She did want to get off the ship, if only to breathe for a minute. "No, no, it's fine. What should we see first?" She hardly knew the first thing about towns and villages. Her mother had never shown her what the kingdom entailed.

Killian turned so he was fully facing her. "I am at your mercy today. Where would you like to go?"

"Not the woods." She admitted. It seemed a silly thing to say, especially since she had almost traveled by land. The idea of going on a trip through the woods seemed different than just walking into them. Killian did not give any indication that this was a strange request, which she appreciated. No need to make her feel even sillier. "To be honest, I have not traveled much. So because you are a far more experienced traveler, I do believe you should lead the way."

He gave a smile before turning with a mock scowl. "Very well, lass. Though I do find it hard to believe that a young princess would be willing to follow a mere navy lieutenant all throughout the town."

"I am no typical princess." She said haughtily. "And I would follow you anywhere."

"You might regret that." Killian was smiling again. Huh, and Liam had made it sound like this would be a chore.

Her face must have given away her thought, because he read her too easily. "Let us pretend that this is an ordinary day. If I can forget the date then town will be much more enjoyable."

She nodded, but her thoughts kept running. She didn't want him to enjoy the day despite the fact that it was his birthday. She wanted him to enjoy it because it was.

She watched him as he helped dock the ship, tying off ropes and putting out the ramp. While Killian was working, Liam approached her again. She knew that Killian could see them talking, for he never took his eyes off her. It was his job to watch her after all.

"Miss Swan, I do believe you are a miracle worker." Liam announced, his voice quiet. She understood that this conversation was for her ears only.

"Honestly I have done nothing. We have barely spoken since the incident this morning, though he has been pleasant." She looked over at Killian, who was currently hunched over working on a knot. "He wants to enjoy the day by ignoring his birthday. I do wish that he could enjoy this day as his birthday. From what I have observed lately, it seems like these days are important to most."

She heard Liam express his agreement. It was rude to not look at someone directly when you were talking, but Emma was too distracted by Killian to glance at his older brother. She found herself watching the way he tied the knots and moved about the ship. He was sturdy despite the ship still rocking, and his work was done quickly. He was a strong man. A smart one as well.

So engrossed was she that it took her a minute to realize Liam had called her name. Forcing her gaze to leave Killian, she looked over at Liam. He was watching her intently, curiosity in his eyes. His eyes were blue like his brothers, though a lighter shade. Nice, she supposed, though she preferred a blue that she could get lost in. Liam's eyes shifted to follow where her attention had been. When he saw Killian across the deck he did not say anything, but gave her another curious look before heading away.

She saw that Killian was making his way toward her again. "We can disembark now." He said. "I recommend just walking through the shops to start. At midday we can have a bite to eat and then decide on our next adventure."

She smiled at him, putting Liam's odd behavior in the back of her mind. She still had a mission to get Killian to enjoy every moment of this day.

He helped her down from the ship and offered her his arm once they were on the dock. He said that it would be safer if she was at his side, and while she agreed, she took it for different reasons. He tucked her hand away above his elbow, and she would have blushed if she wasn't set on figuring out what he would enjoy most that day.

As they entered the small town, she was impressed with how different it was than her own home. Back at home the shops were all built with stones, but here they were made of wood. The coloring of the wood was different from building to building, giving the town a diverse look. There also seemed to be no pattern to the shops. A cluster of four stood directly in front of her, but then wide spaces stretched before the next shop. Food, clothing, and any items that one could think to need were provided in the shops. She noticed a large building that read "Supplies and Necessities" and realized that was probably were the crew were buying.

She noticed when they passed the local tavern. A few men were loitering around outside of it, and one or two clearly had too much ale. One man had called after them, his remarks horribly raunchy. Killian pulled her closer to him then. For the next few shops she was practically glued to his side. It was only when they entered one of the shops that he relaxed and let go of her.

"I'm sorry about those men. I cannot believe the tavern is open at such an early hour."

"It's hardly your fault. Besides, I do believe that I have just furthered my understanding of the complex creature known as man." Emma joked.

He laughed before turning serious. "I do hope you know that not all men drink and are so crass."

"That I have seen." Emma turned away to look through the rows are newly hemmed dresses. "And I have met several men whom I can only describe at honorable."

She didn't have to look behind her to know that he was blushing. He might be able to understand her, but it was a two way street. They both had their pasts, but she knew him well enough to know how important honor was to him.

"Well," He finally replied. "You know what they say: drinking leads to bad form."

She could stop her laugh. Several other customers stared at her, and she ignored them. "I do believe you are the only person to say that."

She searched through the rows are dresses. Most of the styles were ones she had worn in the castle. Loose fitting, with bright colors, the dresses were made for nice social gatherings. They were the type of dresses she had worn when ambassadors or diplomats had come into the kingdom. She pushed past those, searching to see if she could find a hidden gem. There at the end of the row was a beautiful white gown. Examining it, she almost felt like crying. While the dress was not made to be a wedding dress, it was the type of dress she had often envisioned herself wearing when she married. It wasn't fluffy and big like the one her mother had picked out for her; instead this one had a fitted bodice with some lace around the waist band. The skirt of the dress overlapped to look like ripples. It reminded her of the white foam of the sea.

She must have vocalized her appreciation. Killian was behind her, peering at the dress as well. "I'll buy it."

She turned to face him, her eyes growing wide. "You can't do that!"

"And why not?" He was chuckling.

She tried to come up with an answer, but her mind wasn't working fast enough. "Because…it's just not right! And I have no reason to wear it."

Instead of laughing again, he gave her a sweet smile, like she was something precious. "There is nothing wrong with a gentleman purchasing a gift for a young woman. And I am positive there will be an event for you to wear this to once we reach our destination."

She argued more, but it was done. Killian spent his own hard earned money to buy her the dress she could only imagine as a wedding dress. He had assured her there would be some reason for her to wear it once they arrived, but she knew better. If she did not have an occasion to put on that beautifully simple dress before arriving at the Dark One's castle, then she would never wear it. It wasn't just that she already had a gown. No, Killian had bought this dress for her, and the thought of wearing it while married to another man disgusted her.

It was midday now, time passing much too quickly for her liking. She and Killian dropped the dress of at the ship before heading out again. They headed back into town for a meal, though this time their walk was in silence. Instead of walking past the tavern again, Killian led her through a side street that was smaller than she expected. In fact, it was no more than an alley lined with doorways. The children's toys littering the alley told her that this was a frequently visited spot by the kids of the village.

They slowed their pace while walking through the alley. Beside her, Killian looked thoughtful. Probing him, she finally got him to ask what was on his mind. "I was curious about your travels, is all. You said that you haven't traveled much. Where is it that you have traveled too?"

Emma stopped walking. Turning to face him she said, "Nowhere. I have never been out of the kingdom before."

Killian hesitated, like he wanted to ask a follow up question but was unsure how it would be received.

"What?" She finally asked.

He still waited before speaking. "What was it like, growing up a princess?"

She knew that he wasn't simply asking what day to day activities were like or how it was to get everything you ever asked for. But what he was asking she had never told anyone. Her feelings during her adolescent years were her own secret. She loved her mother and had always felt that complaining would be speaking ill of her mother and being disrespectful.

Looking at him, she knew she could trust him with this secret. With any secret. "Lonely." She finally admitted. "I had everything I could possibly want, but I was miserable. My mother worried about my safety too much to let me out of the castle. The little I have seen of my own kingdom was because I snuck out."

"Surely you had someone to talk to though?" Killian probed.

She shook her head. "When I was a young child the maids brought a few of their older daughters to play with me. I hardly remember that time. My mother and I talked, but it was never about our feelings on trivial matters. Most discussions pertained to the kingdom or how stressed she was. My betrothal was all we talked about for the past few months. I never had someone else to talk with." She felt raw, exposed. Telling him this was like baring her soul.

He reached up and touched her hair, gently tucking a stray strand behind her ear. She shivered at his touch. "You have friends now." He spoke reverently, like he did not wish to disrupt this moment.

She couldn't stop the smile she gave him. "I'm pretty sure I have one of the best." Her cheeks reddened, but anything was worth the shy grin he gave her.

There was more silence between them, though it was hardly uncomfortable. Eventually he ventured to ask another question. "Why did you want to travel by ship?"

She leaned back so that she was resting against one of the alley walls. "It was my last chance at freedom." She gave an unladylike snort. "I am not under the naïve impression that my future husband will allow me a chance to find adventure."

He grimaced at the mention of her future husband. At times it was easy to forget why she was even traveling in the first place. It was hard to focus on what a man she had never met was going to be like, though she had no doubt that he would be nothing like the complex man before her. He spoke again. "I hope we are allowing you the freedom you so desire. There is not much to be done on the Jewel of the Realm, but I am sorry if I have ever done anything to impede on your freedom or leave you feeling trapped."

"No!" When would this stubborn man see that he had no reason to apologize to her? "This month that we have been at sea has been the most freeing of my life. In all the time I have been on that ship, never has there been a moment that I felt trapped." Before she could stop herself she spoke again. "You think too little of yourself."

His eyes widened as he stared at her, unblinking. She knew she had been bold in speaking up like that, but she could not bring herself to regret her words. Killian needed to understand that he was worth all of the compliments and accolades given to him. She didn't think about the consequences. She rested her hand on his arm. She could feel his warmth, even through his clothing. How she wished she could touch his bare arm! Her thumb rubbed against the fabric softly.

She looked into his eyes, hoping he understood. "This trip would not be enjoyable at all if not for you."

He continued to stare. She watched him swallow before opening his mouth to speak. He closed it, and then waited another moment before trying again. His voice was shaky when he got the words out. "I hate this day."

His words startled her, but she understood what he meant. He was not saying that he hated this very day, but rather that he hated his birthday in general. She didn't move away from him, only continued rubbing her thumb, hoping to comfort him. He truly hated this day, and for who knows how long he had allowed that hate to spoil this same day every year. She wanted to ask why. She was still staring at him, searching his eyes for any hint of reasoning.

He shocked her by taking a step closer to her, invading her personal space. She could smell him again, and this time the feel of his breath was on her face, not only her cheek. All at once he was too close and not close enough. Her hand on his arm tightened, holding on to him. He broke his stare, but only to allow his gaze to drift over her features. She watched as his eyes fell to her lips, and shuddered. She needed him closer.

Laughter rang from down the alley. She turned away from Killian, stepping to the side of where she had stood. His arm, which she had only just realized had reached for her, followed her step before falling back to his side. A group of kids were in the alley playing tag. They appeared young and innocent, but Emma couldn't help the twinge of anger she felt. They had interrupted her and Killian, this moment lost from them forever. To be honest, she wasn't sure what would have happened had they not come running down the alley. But her heart was pounding, reminding her that she knew what she wanted to happen.

The space between her and Killian was no more than a few feet, but after being so close to him it felt like a chasm. She wished she knew how to close it. This feeling of tension was new to her and she did not like it. She shuffled her feet awkwardly, hoping for him to say something that would ease the almost palpable feeling in the air around them.

He did not speak and it took Emma a moment to realize the kids had already run past them and were leaving the alley. She and Killian were alone again, but she knew that there would be no repeat of what had just happened. Looking at Killian she saw that his jaw was clenched and he was shaking his head. She wasn't sure if his frustration had to do with what he had almost done or at being stopped. She couldn't stop the voice telling her it was probably the former, as much as she hoped it wasn't.

"I believe it is time for something to eat." Killian interrupted her thoughts. His voice was strained, letting her know that she wasn't the only one that was affected by whatever was going on.

She couldn't explain her feelings. She knew she was engaged, and she knew what would happen when she arrived at the Dark One's kingdom. So why was she allowing herself to be drawn in by Killian? Yes, he was attractive. One would have to be a fool not to notice his dark hair, and appealing stubble, not to mention his absolutely gorgeous eyes. But was that the only reason she had what she could only describe as feelings for him? Even as she thought it, she knew it wasn't true. She was not a vain person, and there was so much more to like bout Killian than his appearance.

None of this answered her question as to why she had these feelings. Wasn't one supposed to only have them for their intended? Of course, she had never met her betrothed. Baelfire was only a name she had heard from her mother. He wasn't a man she had ever met, and she certainly didn't have feelings for him. Her entire engagement felt fake, like a ruse to trick the kingdoms. Perhaps if she had been given a token like she had often read of being given during times of engagement, then she would feel like she was actually going to marry someone. At first it had been all she could think about, but the more time she spent with Killian, the more the idea became abstract. In fact, it was only Killian buying the dress for her that had really made her start to think of her impending marriage again.

Emma felt Killian stop next to her, and she looked up at him startled. She hadn't realized that he had led her back to the docks. He pointed out several small shops that offered different meals and asked her what sounded good. She had never been given a choice of what to eat before-the scarce options on the ship did not count. She relished in the chance to make a choice. She really didn't know what the different types of food were, but she settled on one of the options Killian had thrown out.

He guided her into the shop, and Emma was all too aware of his careful attempts not to touch her. Once inside the shop, she was overcome with a strong aroma. She wasn't sure what it was, but it smelt the slightest bit spicy and also sweet. Killian must have noticed her appreciate for the scent, because when he bought her food, he also got her a drink that smelled suspiciously like the same spicy and sweet scent. "It's warmed chocolate with cinnamon on top."

She had drunk warmed chocolate before, but she could never recall there being cinnamon. When she voiced this Killian informed her that cinnamon was not grown everywhere, and so some places did not have it. She took a careful sip of the hot drink and couldn't help the moan that escaped her. She could not recall ever tasting something so good.

"I do not want to live anywhere there is not cinnamon ever again." Emma decided aloud. Next to her, Killian laughed, nodding his head in agreement to her sentiment. She ate her food as well, though she was much too distracted by the taste of the cinnamon to even pay attention to what she was eating. It was honestly the most glorious thing she had ever tasted.

She and Killian chatted idly while they ate. The tension that had come between them was gone, though the event was far from forgotten for Emma. She listened intently to Killian sharing a story. It was so rare for him to give an account of one of his own exploits that she cherished every moment of his story. "The captain was so drunk that day that he sailed us straight off course. It wasn't until that night that the crew realized he had gotten us so far off course. The night was cloudy, so it was hard to see the stars above us, but I caught sight of a few I recognized and took up the wheel. The crew would've protested to a young sailor of sixteen starting to sail the ship, but we were so lost that they were willing to give me a chance at getting us home. We managed to sail into the right port that night."

"What happened with the captain?" Emma was enthralled in his story. She had known he was a great navigator, but she had not realized he had been so good at it at a young age.

Killian chuckled before stopping. "Sorry, it's not proper to laugh at a man's misfortune. The captain was reprimanded and dismissed for his behavior. On a more important mission his drunkenness could have hurt the kingdom."

"Well, as I always say, 'drunkenness leads to bad form.'" Emma teased.

"Oh, yes, lass. I recall you say that quite often." Killian shook his head, a grin still on his face.

Emma though back to his story. It was amazing that just a few stars had been enough for Killian to get the ship back on course. She remembered that morning and the thousands of stars she had seen before the sun had risen. They had all seemed like a jumbled mess, she couldn't imagine being able to use them to get her someplace. "Can you teach me?"

Killian looked surprised at her question. "Teach you what?"

"The stars." Emma said. "Can you teach me about the constellations and how to navigate them?"

Killian seemed to consider that. "The only way to do that would be at night once the sun is below the horizon. It would also take a considerable amount of time to learn." He squinted at her. "Are you sure you want to spend that much time learning them? You would lose a fair amount of sleep? Though it wouldn't be every night, maybe a few a week."

She nodded that she was sure. Yes she was usually tired at the end of the day, but learning about the stars seemed exciting. No matter where she was she could use the stars to get someplace. She could be anywhere and gazing at the stars would bring her home. She just wished she knew where home was. There was also the motivation of being able to spend more time with Killian. She knew she shouldn't want to, but the idea of spending as much time with him as possible made her want to do anything possible to make it happen.

Killian gave her another smile. "Okay, lass. I'll talk with Liam. He will most likely approve of my starting to show you tonight. I suspect he would agree to anything I ask of him today."

It took Emma a full second to realize he had said the last part as a joke. Her surprise must have been evident on her face, but his was as well. She doubted very much that he had ever joked at the idea of his birthday before.

He looked down at the table they were still sitting at. "For a little bit today, I had actually forgotten what the date was. I don't think I've ever done that before."

She knew Liam would shake his head and insist she remain quiet, but she couldn't help it. For some reason she knew that he wanted her to ask. He wanted to share, but he also wanted her to want to know. To care enough to know. "What happened?"

He didn't answer immediately, but she knew he would. She wouldn't push him, she would only wait. Finally he spoke up. "My family has had its share of tragedies, and they seem to all happen on the same day." He paused then, and she mulled over his words. She had known it was personal, and she had suspected it had to do with his family, what with Liam's overprotectiveness this morning. She didn't speak or move, for fear of stopping him from opening up. "My mother died in childbirth with me. I don't know much about her, only what Liam has been able to share. I am thankful that he can remember her and tell me small details. My father," He spit the word out like it was a bitter taste, "never shared anything about her with me. He blamed me for her death, saying that if I had not caused her trouble during childbirth she would have been able to survive. She didn't have any trouble with Liam."

He paused again, and this time Emma didn't stop herself from moving. She grabbed his hand across the table and laced her fingers through his. He didn't stop her or pull away, instead he twisted his palm to tighten their grip on each other. "My father liked to remind me of this. He was always the most vocal on my birthday, which was also the day she passed on. Liam always tried to make these days' happy ones, but he was young and that responsibility should never have been his. On my ninth birthday my day left us. We had just moved to a new city and I thought that things were going to change." His laugh was bitter. "Well, they did. My father abandoned us. Life actually became easier after that, but that was mostly because of Liam. He did everything he could to raise me the way my father should have. I am so thankful to him for what he has done for me. I wish I didn't become withdrawn on my birthday, but every year that it comes, I feel like I must mourn the loss of my mother and the abandonment of my father."

She felt a tear slip down her cheek, then another. She was not a crier, having only cried in times of extreme pain or loss, but she couldn't stop the silent tears. She was thankful Killian was looking at the joined hand and not her face. This man before her had gone through so much. She knew what it was like to only have one parent but she knew her mother loved her. Killian did not know a parent's love and that broke her heart. He was so strong to be able to smile and be open despite the pain he had grown up with. So one day a year he allowed the bitterness to creep in; a lesser man would not have the strength and heart to smile every other day of the year like he did.

Killian looked up and caught her eye. He was not crying, though his eyes were glazed over. Almost immediately they became focused and his frown deepened. He leaned across the table and lifted the hand that she was not holding to her face. Gently, she felt his hand caress her face. His hand was rough and calloused, but it did not feel harsh against her cheek. With his thumb, Killian slowly wiped away her tear. "Please don't cry, love." He had called her several names before, but never love. The name didn't sound like another nickname, but a term of endearment.

She was subconsciously aware that they were currently alone in the pub. Killian's hand was still warm against her face, catching her tears with his thumb. Why was he comforting her? He had just opened his past to her and she was allowing him to comfort her? Not allowed her doubts to deter her, Emma lifted her free hand to grab the hand against her face. She slowly moved his hand, him letting her guide it from her cheek to her lips. She made sure she had eye contact with him before she gently pressed her lips to the palm of his hand. She heard his sharp intake of breath.

"You." She kissed his thumb. "Are." She pressed another kiss to his next finger. "Completely." Another kiss. "Utterly." Another. "Beautifully." She pressed her lips against his last finger, whispering so he felt her breath as she spoke. "Amazing."

She didn't break her eye contact with him. She could hear his breathing and knew it was ragged. She also knew hers must be the same. She had no idea what she was doing, but the feel of his skin beneath her lips was intoxicating.

The door to the pub banged open and she dropped his hand at the same time that he released the one he had been holding. She looked over at the door and saw that it was one of the crew that had entered. He caught sight of them, and waved before walking over. The poor man must have been clueless to both Emma and Killian's glare and he grabbed a chair and dragged it over to join them.

"So what have you been up to, Lieutenant?"

oOoOo

There wasn't much excitement throughout the rest of the afternoon. She enjoyed several pleasant conversations with Killian, but it seemed like the crew member who had joined-interrupted-them at lunch had decided it was a good idea to spend part of the afternoon with them. By the time they returned to the ship the crew member, who she had learned was named Leroy, had already decided they needed to visit the tavern that night. Killian had politely declined.

That night at supper, Emma waited as Killian ushered Liam over to join them at the table. He hadn't had a chance to speak with his brother yet about his approval for Killian and Emma to stargaze at night. Emma doubted Liam would tell them not to, though she did worry that constant late nights would affect Killian's work. Liam grabbed a bowl of food before joining them at the table.

"I do hope you've been able to have a lovely day today, Miss Swan." Liam gave her a friendly smile before settling himself in next to his brother.

Lovely? Spending the day with Killian had given her a whirlwind of emotions, and lovely seemed like a pleasant word to sum up the day. "Yes, Captain. Lieutenant Jones showed me a lot of the village, and it was quiet interesting to see." It was amazing, really, how in the company of others the regal speak that she had grown up with came out. She had gotten used to speaking more freely during the afternoon.

"I am glad my brother was good company today." Liam was still smiling, but she understood the unasked question. How had Killian acted throughout the day?

Like at breakfast that morning, Killian also seemed to know what Liam meant. "I will have you know, brother, that I am completely present and can answer your question about my own well-being." He glanced at Emma, before dropping his gaze. He must feel shy about the vulnerability he had shown her. She flushed at the memory of comforting him. What had possessed her to kiss his hand like that? Not only kiss it, but caress it lovingly. The tension from that afternoon return, but Liam quickly distracted them from it.

"I am well aware of your presence, little brother. I was merely making sure the lady had found you tolerable." Liam replied to his brother's accusation.

Killian rolled his eyes before taking a bite of food. "Miss Swan and I had a conversation this afternoon and she expressed an interest in learning about constellations and navigation."

Emma chimed in before Liam could respond. "It is such a fascinating thought, that the stars can lead you home."

Liam didn't even hesitate in giving affirmation. "I see no reason this should be a problem. Though, Killian, I do expect you to still hold up to your duties. Will this cause a problem?"

Killian shook his head. "No. I think every other night, or perhaps taking two nights of rest in between would allow us both to get sufficient sleep. And the stars are out earlier in the night now, so we will not have to be out so late."

"Splendid. Are you planning on starting these lessons tonight?" Liam took a sip from his mug.

Emma spoke up before Killian could answer. "Yes, Captain. I am really eager. I practically had to beg the lieutenant to teach me." Emma joked. She had hardly needed to convince Killian.

Killian laughed next to her. "So persistent, lass."

She playfully kicked him under the table. But it was Liam who called out "Oi!"

Emma was pretty sure she would be stained red forever. "I am so sorry. I was just trying to stretch my leg."

Liam waved her off. "No need to apologize. It didn't really hurt; I was just caught off guard. If you need to stretch yourself, please feel free to. I only ask that you watch my legs."

Emma apologized again. She spared a glance over at Killian and saw that he was holding in laughter. She wanted to huff at him, but she didn't want to appear improper in front of everyone. She had already tried and failed to hit Killian.

"You know, brother, with you and Miss Swan staying aboard, I think I might just go visit the tavern tonight. It has been a long while since I have enjoyed a drink." Liam said.

Killian seemed to agree that Liam should enjoy a night off. As far as Emma knew, Liam hadn't allowed himself a break since they first set sail. If anyone deserved a night off, it was the Jones' brother. She felt guilty that Killian wouldn't get one until they arrived at their destination. She selfishly did not want his break to come anytime soon.

Waiting for it to be dark enough was the hardest part. She had retired to her room, planning to read a book. When the sun started to set, she had asked Killian through the wall how long it would be until it was dark enough to go out. He had simply answered "a while." Frustrated, she lit the candle next to her bed so she could continue reading. If she wasn't so excited the book would actually hold her interest, but as it was it wasn't enough to distract her from her impatience. Several more times she called through the wall. Around the sixth or seventh time she swore Killian was laughing at her.

Getting up, she grabbed a light cape and wrapped it around her shoulders. She didn't knock before opening Killian's door; she just barged into his part of the room. He was lying on his bed, with a book in his hand. He sat up immediately and put the book down. Emma couldn't tell what the book was, but she was certain it was an informational book rather than an enjoyment book.

"Impatient, are we?" He joked when he had recovered from his shock.

She crossed her arms. "I thought you said it was getting darker earlier?"

"Lass, it's only just now dusk. It will still be another hour or so before the sky is dark enough to make out constellations. The most you would be able to see right now would be an occasional star." Killian tried to reason.

She, however, was determined. "Let's go! I'll learn the stars one by one then."

Killian laughed again, and she had to smile at how much he had managed to laugh today. "You can hardly learn full constellations one star at a time, but I can give you a few of the names. C'mon." Killian stood from the bed and led her out of the room. She had wondered where they would go for the lesson, though now she saw that he was leading her the same way he had that morning. She felt a shiver despite her cape at the thought of being in the lookout again.

Sure enough, Killian brought her to the same place, and started the climb first. She followed after him, much more sure of her climbing than she had been that morning. She lifted herself into the lookout and leaned against the edge. It was the same view she had seen that morning. It was funny how just a few hours ago she had been impatient to see the sun rise, and now she wanted it to set more than anything.

Unlike that morning, Killian kept his distance, even in the cramped quarters. He leaned against the opposite side of the lookout, still closer than someone would normally stand, but much further than she wanted him. She couldn't feel his heat from this distance.

She saw some of the crew milling about the ship, tidying this or tying off that. They worked diligently before Liam dismissed them and they disembarked. She watched as Liam went about checking the work before finally glancing up at the lookout. He motioned something, which Killian must have responded too, because then he was nodding and walking down the gangplank. As the sun set lower into the sky, more people left the ship, so that by the time the yellow hue had left the sky all of the crew was gone.

Killian had pointed out a few stars while they were waiting for the sun to set. The bright one to her right was Sirius. Not far from it was what he called The North Star. He said that was one of the most important stars to navigators. She listened intently, trying to remember all of the different names.

It seemed gradual, but then she was also sure she had blinked and missed it, but suddenly the sky was full of twinkling lights. She had never had much chance to appreciate them before, and she couldn't help voicing her awe. "I can't believe there are so many, and that they are so bright."

"Aye." Killian agreed behind her. "Stars on one of nature's finest beauties. Do you see that large grouping of stars right above us?" He pointed towards the sky, but she couldn't distinguish one grouping from another.

"I can't make out anything." She said dejectedly. How was she supposed to learn the constellations if she couldn't even make out groupings?

Killian must have noticed her disappointment, for he was quick to speak up. "Quite alright. Most people study charts for months before they are able to make out different constellations. I'm sorry; I should have had you look at some of the maps to start with. If you would like to wait until you've had a chance to learn their shapes, then we can go down."

"No." Emma was quick to say. She had been so eager to see the stars and she didn't want to head down. "We can look over the maps tomorrow. Tonight can you point out the stars with names?"

"Alright, lass." He started up again, naming certain stars in the sky. After a while Emma lost track of which one was which, so Killian repeated the process.

Without the sun, the air grew chilly. She had been wise enough to grab her cape, but it still didn't feel like enough to block out the cold air. She pulled it tighter around herself, trying to keep her body warm. She didn't want there to be any excuse for Killian to send her back inside. Pressure against her back instantly warmed her and sent heat across her body. Killian pointed to another star, his close proximity putting his arm next to her head. She had been so keen on learning the stars that she should've been paying attention, but her attention was suddenly fixed on his arm. He was still wearing his uniform, but she could see the definition in his arm even through it. She remembered having her hand on his arm that morning.

Trying to reign in her thoughts, Emma started trying to rename the stars he had mentioned. She got most of them wrong, but several she did get right. She practiced those and found she was able to remember them better if she focused on a few at a time. She and Killian started a game: he would point to a star and she would have to name it. Occasionally she would point to one and Killian would either say it had no name or give the name. She had no way of knowing if he was right, but she suspected he was.

Even with the game, she was not able to distract her thoughts from his warmth behind her. That morning when they had been in the same position she had felt drawn to him, but after the events of the day she felt the pull was stronger. She wasn't only attracted to him, but she felt like they had a connection. He understood her in a way no one ever had, and in turn she understood him. Knowing about his past and having shared some of hers made her feel closer to him that she had even fifteen hours ago.

She started to feel tired, though she by no means wanted to retire for the night. Instead she risked being bold, and leaned against him more fully. He shifted behind her, but it was not away from her, he only repositioned her so that she was able to rest comfortably. She laid her head down upon his chest and could hear his heartbeat. She had expected it to be steady and calm, but she found his heart to be racing to a similar pattern as hers. He wrapped one arm around her waist, still pointing out the stars with his other.

A noise below them startled her, causing her to straighten quickly. She turned towards what she thought was the sound, but she lost her balance and tripped. Before she could fall into the ledge, Killian grabbed her by the wrists and pulled her into him.

"It was only the wind knocking over a mug." Killian assured her. The noise hadn't scared her as much as startle her. She had been too lost in thought to notice anything.

She stared in front of her and was met with the buttons and Killian's uniform. When she had tripped and she twisted, so instead of pulled her back into him, Killian had gathered her right in his arms. His hands had moved from her wrists to her shoulders. She looked up to thank him, but she couldn't get the words out.

She had looked at him many times-more than she would ever admit. So how had she never noticed how bright his eyes shined? It was night, she should not be able to make out the striking blue in them. It took her only long enough to draw her gaze away from his eyes to notice just how close he had pulled her. It wasn't like he had much choice, with their limited room, but she had ended up pressed lightly against his front. Looking at his face, she realized that if it wasn't for his height, she would be nose to nose with him. As it was she could feel his breath ghosting over her forehead.

His hand moved from her shoulder to her face, tilting it back up to meet his gaze. She stared at him, wide eyed. His hand against her cheek brought back the warmth she had felt at lunch, and she could remember every detail of what his fingers felt like under her lips. As if he was reading her mind, he traced her lip with his thumb, slowly. Instead of her heart racing, it felt like it had stopped as she waited for him to do something, anything.

Second passed without Killian making any other motion except tracing her lips. She opened her mouth slightly when he pressed his thumb to her lower lip and she gave it a kiss like she had earlier that morning. Killian was so much closer now, she could actually feel his intake of breath. Feeling that she had an effect on him and knowing this wasn't one way made up Emma's mind. She was tired of waiting for him to make a move.

Without thinking of consequences, she grabbed the lapels of his jackets and surged forward, forming her mouth against his. She felt him stiffen beneath her fingers, and then he was responding, moving his lips against hers. His hand remained on her face, but the other quickly became tangled in her hair, tugging it back to angle her head against him. A moan escaped her as she let go of his collar in favor of grabbing his hair. He groaned against her lips, and she pressed closer to him, needing to hear that sound again.

He caught her bottom lip between his teeth and sucked on it gently. He nibbled it as he let her lip go, and she didn't even try to stop the whimper that escaped her. Not wanting to be outdone, she caught his lip between hers and repeated his motion. His arm that had been on her face, wrapped around her back, crushing her into him. They couldn't be close enough.

His kisses slowed after some time, becoming light pecks before he finally pulled away. She was too overwhelmed with need to even open her eyes. Killian's breathing was uneven and she knew hers was as well. She opened her eyes slowly, not wanting the moment to disappear. Killian's face was completely flushed, his lips swollen. She felt pride knowing she had done that. They stayed still, holding one another before Killian finally lowered his arms.

"Emma, love, it's time to head in." He spoke gently, like he was just as afraid of this moment ending as she was.

She knew he was right, but she also knew that she wouldn't be sleeping anytime soon. That kiss…well, it was certainly enough to keep a woman up at night.

He climbed down the ladder and waited for her at the bottom. They walked to the room in silence, both lost in their own thoughts. The silence wasn't awkward, though Emma knew there was a lot that needed to be said. As Emma headed for her own door in the Killian followed her until he reached the doorway.

"We will discuss this in the morning, love." Killian reassured her before lightly pressing his lips against her forehead. He took a step back and she closer her door. Even as she climbed into her bed, she knew that she wouldn't be able to rest until they had spoken and figured out exactly what had happened tonight.

A/N: Well, this was not supposed to be 8,000 words long. Small details keep getting added into the story, making it longer, but I wouldn't change any of them. I loved writing this chapter, it's probably been my favorite to write ever. My favorite part is the middle section, though. I just love seeing both Emma and Killian have a chance to be strong for one another. Oh, and Liam is probably the best secondary character ever. Can we all just agree that ever Captain Swan fanfic needs to have Liam mentioned or appear?

Thank you so much for reading this. I can't tell you how much it encourages me when I receive alerts saying I have a review or it's been favorited by someone. Everyone of you is amazing. Please take a second to let me know what you liked and what I need to improve. It's recently come to my attention that my vocabulary is somewhat limited on time pieces.