~.~

Enchanted Forest – Present Day

The familiar fishy odor of the pier invaded Killian's nostrils as his eyes settled on the small, brick houses he hadn't seen in a long time. He still couldn't believe that bloody witch had tricked them all and cast a curse on them, but staring at old houses sure wouldn't solve a thing.

"Emma!" he knew looking around the Jolly would be fruitless, but he still couldn't help but let his eyes wander the deck. He heaved an annoyed sigh when all he saw was an ashamed Smee sitting on one of the trapdoors, trying to hide a piece of bread and cheese behind his back.

"Captain, I swear I was just stopping for a breath," he used his free hand to clean some breadcrumbs off his bearded chin before sending Killian a curious look. "Who is Emma?"

The muscles of Killian's jaw clenched at the realization that this version of Smee didn't know who Emma was. That couldn't be a good sign.

"Captain?" Killian heard Smee's voice in the distance, his mind too busy trying to figure out what to do next. As much as he loved his ship, it would be of no use now. Without even bothering to take one last look at his first mate, Killian started walking along the ramp in hurried steps, uttering a loud, but sarcastic "Enjoy your meal, Smee."

When he got off the ship, everything seemed to be as he remembered: there were dockers all around taking goods on and off other smaller ships while the concrete walls of the houses nearby echoed the loud expletives and laughter of the crew men preparing for their next journey.

As he strode along the cobblestone street, he could sense the suspicious glances sent his way at every step he took. Some of the passers-by would slow their pace to try to avoid getting too close to him, while others not so subtly turned around and started walking in the opposite direction, not wishing to cross paths with him at all. As he ignored the cold gazes of all around, he couldn't help but let his mind wander to the last time he was subjected to such scrutiny.


Enchanted Forest – Two years ago

"I tried the hero thing," Killian said once he settled on the horse under David's surprised gaze. "It didn't take."

"So that's it? Emma's gone and you're gonna go back to being a pirate," Snow joined the two of them, her tone somewhat judging and condescending, but one that didn't bother Killian in the slightest.

"Back, milady?" his face quirked with an ironic half-smile as he pulled on the reins of the horse. "I've always been a pirate."

The stunned expression on the prince's face was the last thing he saw before he galloped away.

He was Captain Hook, the most treacherous pirate of the seven seas.

He didn't need them.

He didn't need Emma.

"Good."

His breath caught in his throat every time he remembered he would never be seeing her again, but he didn't need her. No. All he needed was to have the Jolly Roger back. His ship. His love. He just needed to find it.

"Good."

"Please, you couldn't handle it."

He yanked the horse's reins, hoping the wind cutting his face would take away the words that insisted on haunting him.

"This is not a contest, Hook."

Another yank. Harder this time.

As much as he fought against them, the memories of her hazel green eyes swallowed him whole and, before he knew it, he was instinctively ordering the horse to stop when he got to the pier. There was quite nothing like that tarry, woody smell that would always make him smile.

Yes.

Now he was one step closer to home.

He let himself study the crowd before him as he got off the horse. His attentive eyes failed to stay indifferent to the fearful glances sent in his direction. Or in his hook's direction, to be more exact. At any other time, he would have taken it as a compliment, an indistinct proof of his fearsome reputation. But now, no matter how much he tried to feel some sense of pride in it, all he could bring himself to do was walk through the crowd with slumped shoulders, trying to ignore all the terrified eyes following him. His hand rolled into a fist at the powerlessness that started taking over him. He was a pirate. Why the bloody hell was he feeling ashamed of it?

"Does that surprise you?"

"You're a pirate."

"Aye, that I am. But I also believe in good form."

A sigh escaped his lips as he stood by the tavern's door. He was going to get in there, find his crew and get the Jolly Roger back. And then… everything would be right in the world and he wouldn't think of Emma Swan ever again.


Enchanted Forest – Present Day

Of all the things Killian missed about the Enchanted Forest, the overly crowded fairs certainly weren't one of them. While they made for wonderful occasions to steal from the least alert folks, he had never been fond of the bothersome wails from those trying to sell whatever they could.

If there was a way to get to the Charmings' castle without having to walk through this nightmare, he would have gladly taken it, but alas here he was. A hurried pirate mumbling an array of "excuse me's" and "sorrys" to cut through the crowd. Emma was somewhere out there, he had no time to waste on old men who appeared to have an unhealthy fascination for horned helmets.

He kept walking as fast as he could – he had definitely forgotten how easily his boots would sink into the forest's muddy floor – but amidst the roar of the fair, the faint sound of a familiar voice stopped him in his tracks.

"Antique books. Four shillings each!"

Killian's head turned in the opposite direction, trying to determine where the voice was coming from.

"Four shillings!"

He pushed a man out of the way as he sallied forth, his fixed expression on one of the wooden stalls just a few feet away from him. Could his hearing be playing tricks on him? The corners of his mouth turned up once he got to the stall, the hazel eyes staring back at him leaving no room for doubt that he was most definitely not hearing things.

Henry.

"Would you like to buy a book, sir?" Henry stretched his arm, holding a book in his hand. Kilian's smile faded when he saw no sign of recognition on Henry's face. "It's only four shillings."

"Is your mother with you, lad?" Killian's eyes instantly inspected the rest of the stall. If Henry was here, Emma had to be nearby. Or so he hoped.

"Buy a book. Three and a half shillings for you, sir," Killian raised an eyebrow at Henry's not so subtle refusal to answer his question. Not that Killian could blame the lad - after all, he was nothing but a stranger to him now. Trying to hide the unexpected disappointment that washed over him, Killian searched for some doubloons in his satchel. He knew that no curse could take Henry's perceptiveness away and the last thing he wanted was for the boy to get suspicious of him.

"Here, have five doubloons," Killian dropped the coins on the table before taking Henry's book from his hand and taking a look at it for the first time. "The Mutton Scripture: everything you need to know about mutton meat" Ah. Fascinating. Perhaps he should have bothered to look at the title before giving him the money.

"Thank you, sir."

Killian scratched his head with his hook, trying to appear as casual as possible during the awkward silence that ensued. "So… is there any chance I can speak to your mother?"

Henry's stuttering suddenly came to a halt when Belle joined him on the other side of the stall. Killian tilted his head in confusion as he tried to understand what Belle was doing there with the lad.

"Mama, this man was looking for you."

Mama?

Henry thought Belle was his mother?

The disturbing thought had Killian flinching and crinkling his nose in a way that in any other circumstance would certainly offend his friend.

"Oh," Belle seemed taken aback with what Henry had just told her. "Do I know you?"

"No, I'm afraid not," Killian said elusively, looking away from her inquisitive eyes. "I was looking for somebody else. My apologies."

Realizing that staying in there would only make him look more distrustful, Killian nodded at the two of them and walked away. He had to find a way to keep his eyes on Henry. Not only was the boy his best chance to find Emma, he also couldn't help but fear for his safety in this cursed world. Spotting a tree near Belle and Henry's stall, Killian skillfully walked his way through the crowd and hid behind it.

He watched intently as Belle smiled at Henry and her hand gestures seemed to be giving him permission to go. After Henry put some books in a satchel of his own, he waved at Belle and joined the sea of people. With a hint of a smirk appearing on his face, Killian started following him. It wasn't long until they got to the end of the fair and Henry started trekking through the dense forest.

Killian hurried his step, trying to catch up to Henry. Now that they were alone, this was his chance to get Henry to help him, but before Killian could even say a thing, Henry turned around, fists held up in front of his face.

"If you hurt me, my father will find you," Henry's menacing tone had Killian pulling his head back in surprise.

"I'm not going to hurt you, lad," he slowly raised his arms in surrender before frowning at the boy. "Your father… Who's your father?"

Baelfire couldn't be alive in this world. Or could he?

"Rumplestiltskin. He's a blacksmith and he has all sorts of weapons."

The utter look of disgust on his face probably had Henry thinking that Killian was bothered by the second part of the answer, but Killian couldn't help the way his entire face crinkled with revulsion. He needed to find Emma and get them all out of this sick, twisted world as fast as he possibly could.

"I… I simply need your assistance. Sadly, the book I bought from you isn't of any help," he tapped his hook against the book inside his satchel and waited for a response from Henry, who simply pressed his lips together and darted his eyes away from Killian. That was enough for Killian to know that Henry was admitting just how useless that book on mutton meat was – and feeling guilty about it.

"Alright. What do you need my assistance for?"

"I'm looking for someone," Killian wasted no time in answering. "Her name is Emma Swan."

Killian was hoping that just hearing his mother's name would trigger some sort of memories in Henry, but all he witnessed was incredulity stamped on the lad's face before he erupted in laughter.

"You have heard of her," Killian concluded, both annoyed and hopeful.

"Of course I have," Henry replied in between chuckles. "She's the Queen of the Misthaven."

"The Queen?" Killian's words came out in a gasp as he felt a sudden surge of pride. It seemed not everything in this bloody world was abominable. If there was one thing he knew was that Emma would make an incredible queen. The only downside to it was that getting to her and trying to break the curse had just turned into an even more challenging mission, but nothing he couldn't handle.

"Yes, she's the Queen. In what world have you been living in?"

"You wouldn't believe it," Killian raised an eyebrow at Henry's words before casting an inspecting glance around. If Emma was the Queen, all he had to do was find a way to get to her castle.

"Why are you looking for her?"

"Maritime matters," Killian didn't make eye contact with Henry this time around, in fear the boy would rightfully conclude he wasn't being truthful. "Urgent matters, actually."

"I happen to know the Queen is visiting a nearby village today. It's this week's big event."

That got Killian's attention. "Show me where."

"Buy me more books and I will."

The unashamed grin on Henry's face prompted Killian to flash him a smirk of his own. Always a spitfire.

"Lad, I will buy you all the books in the world. Just take me to your mothe– Queen."

"This way."

As Killian followed Henry down the forest road, he tried to think of ways in which he could get Emma's attention once he saw her. She would likely be surrounded by guards and perhaps even her own parents. That had him wondering if David and Snow were even her parents in this world. In a place where Henry was the crocodile's and Belle's child, anything was possible.

He could feel the pulse in his temple at each step he took. If he were honest with himself, he feared that a cursed Emma would not believe him right away – after all, his adventure in New York hadn't been exactly easy – but he had no doubt that their True Love would prevail and she would eventually believe him. He just hoped none of that would take too long. They had to get back as fast as they could and stop Calypso from whatever she was planning to do.

While they walked, Killian tried to know more about Henry's life in this world. His answers never failed to make him mentally cringe, but he tried not to give away any sign of disgust. Apparently, Henry loved his baby brother Gideon and Rumple was "the best Papa ever". How the crocodile's name and "best Papa" could ever be put together in the same sentence, Killian didn't know. All he knew was that whatever curse this was, it sure was powerful if it managed to put the Dark One in Henry's good graces.

"So… This Queen Emma…" Killian changed the subject when he realized Henry had nothing more to share about himself. "Tell me more about her."

"She's really nice. Misthaven's poverty rate has never been so low."

"Not surprising," Killian smiled and grabbed Henry's arm to prevent him from stepping on a mud puddle.

"She really cares about the people and their problems," Henry said as he adjusted the satchel's strap on his shoulder. "I think that's what makes her unique."

"So I take it the people of Misthaven approve of her?"

"Most do. Mama is always saying she's the best queen Misthaven has ever had, but Papa disagrees. He doesn't like her very much, but I never really understood why."

Of course not even a cursed version of the bloody crocodile would approve of Emma. He shouldn't be surprised.

"Allow me," Killian used his hook to get the strap from Henry's shoulder and expertly put it around his shoulder, offering to carry it.

After some more minutes of silence, Henry stopped and pointed at one large stone with the name "Dawsbury" inscribed on it.

"We're here."

As far as Killian's eyes could see, the road below was filled with people from one side to the other, impatiently waiting for Queen Emma's arrival. The loud sound of a horse trotting had Killian moving himself and Henry behind some bushes, not wanting Emma nor anybody else to see them – at least not yet. He would need time to think about what he would say to her, to think about an effective plan to get her to believe him.

As much as Killian had conjured stunning images of Queen Emma in his mind, nothing had prepared him for his wife's unearthly gloriousness when she finally came into view, waving at the people while still on the horse. Her green eyes sparkled in the light and her long, blonde locks held the white jeweled tiara that matched her floral white gown. Always with a pleased smile etched on her face, she got off the horse and greeted everyone personally, either shaking hands one by one or giving small hugs.

The purity of her beauty staggered him, triggering a sudden firework in his belly. He had always known that under all those walls there was a woman with overwhelming kindness and a heart bigger than most. Those traits would always be associated with Emma Swan and there was no curse that could ever erase them from her.

"She's beautiful," Killian whispered, his mouth gaping open in awe as she hugged an old lady.

"You won't fall in love with the Queen, will you?"

"I'm afraid it's far too late for that," Killian ignored Henry's playful tone, but then realization hit him and he quickly turned his head to the boy. "Wait, why can't I fall in love with her? Is she married?"

Killian's heart almost stopped in the few seconds that took Henry to reply. He hadn't even thought of the possibility of Emma being with somebody else in this cursed world. Seeing her with Walsh back then had already crushed him, he wasn't certain if he would be able to handle the agony of seeing her with another man now that she was his wife and they were confirmed True Love.

"No, there's no king," Henry laughed at the deep sigh of relief that escaped Killian's lips. "But village rumors say she has plenty of suitors who have been pursuing her for a long time."

"Aye, of course they have," there was bitterness seeping from Killian as he took a step to the side to keep following each of Emma's movements. He could only hope that none of those bloody fools' tactics had been successful.

And that none of them were flying monkeys or some sort of bizarre creatures.

"You don't want to discuss any maritime matters with her," Henry followed Killian, also taking a step to the side. "You want to get close to her. That's why you're jealous."

Killian arched an eyebrow at him, not so surprised at having been caught. "Always a smart lad."

Killian's eyes settled on Emma once again. She was talking to two young women, but what really caught his attention was the big, burlap bag that Emma didn't seem to let go of. What was his Swan carrying in there? He had been enough time in the Enchanted Forest to know that it was unusual for monarchs to walk around with any kind of containers for their possessions, lest they be robbed.

"So how do you plan on winning her heart?"

"I have my tactics," Killian's confidence took over his voice. It was an art difficult to master, but he excelled at wooing Emma Swan. He had no reason to think he wouldn't be able to win her heart one more time. "And they're good enough for you to ask me for courting advice."

"What do you mean?"

"Eventually," Killian gave a dismissive wave of his hand. What mattered for now was that he may have thought of the one thing that could give him access to Emma's castle. All he needed was to get back to the Jolly Roger and hope that what he was looking for was there. Or the rest of it, that is. "We should go."

"I can't go with you. I have to go home."

Of course. Killian had forgotten again that this wasn't his Henry. Belle and… the crocodile were his family now.

"Aye," with a nod of his head, Killian grabbed Henry's hand and dropped all the doubloons he had in his possession. "For all these books. A deal is a deal."

"Thank you." Henry's gaze fell on his satchel full of books that Killian was still carrying. With nothing more than an honest smile, Henry closed his hand around the coins and held them tightly.

"I'll see you soon, lad. And we will all be home then." Before Henry even had a chance to question him, Killian pulled him in for a hug. He feared for what the crocodile could do to Henry in this world, but he trusted Belle to protect him from any danger. He wished he could convince Henry to go with him and help him get to Emma, but each passing minute was another minute Calypso had at her disposal. All he could do now was to make sure he got to Emma as fast as he could so this nightmare would finally be over.


Meeting the people of Misthaven and talking to them was both the best and the worst part of being the Queen. Emma truly loved her people and to know what was the best way to help them, but it was also an exhausting task. There were occasions in which she wished everyone would just look at her as Emma Swan and not as "the Queen". Her parents had always taught her to be kind and graceful whenever people acknowledged her royal status, but no noble ranks would ever stop making her feel like a normal person who wanted nothing more than to have moments where she could serve herself instead of serving others. Was that selfish?

There were days where she felt like a spoiled, ungrateful brat for not feeling the happiness that she was supposed to feel. The happiness everyone kept telling her to cherish. There was this weird, hollow feeling of something missing. She didn't know what, but her life… it just didn't feel right. And yet, as she walked past the castle's large, wooden gates, there was noting missing. She had two loving parents who had always been there for her, friends who loved and supported her and a home with everything she needed at her disposal. Why wasn't that enough for her?

"You're back!" her mother's voice interrupted her thoughts, her voice echoing in the stone walls of the living room. "How did it go with the people of Dawsbury?"

"It was good, but apparently there has been an increase of thefts in the village." Emma took her tiara off and put it on one of the tables. That thing was itchy as hell. Luckily, this time she had also remembered to hide her bag in one of the bushes near the castle's drawbridge before any guards had seen her. If she were caught, there was no question her parents would not approve of her secret, extracurricular activities.

"I was talking to August this morning and that seems to be a common affliction in nearby villages," her father handed her a paper with the number of guards and August's watchmen spread across all the villages of Misthaven.

"Thanks, dad. If you don't mind, I'm going to study this in my chamber."

"Of course not," her mother dropped a kiss on her forehead. "Just don't forget that tonight is your dinner with the Duke of Ostrana."

Her mother's almost sing-songed reminder had Emma fighting the urge to roll her eyes as she made her way to the stairwell. Her mother's nauseating insistence in finding her a husband was driving her insane. No matter how many times she told her that she was not interested in finding a man to share her life with, her mother refused to listen. Every week Snow would arrange these dinners with these random men Emma wanted nothing to do with and every week she had to come up with new excuses to end the dinner earlier than it was supposed to.

"I'm so proud of her," Snow whispered to her husband as they watched Emma climb up the stairs. "There has never been a day I have regretted abdicating the throne to Emma. She's a brilliant Queen."

"She is, but I don't know…" David slumped his shoulders, his eyes focusing on an empty space in the air between them. "Doesn't she look unhappy to you?"

"You have noticed it, too," Snow admitted as her face fell.

"Of course I have. Do you remember when she used to come from these meetings all excited and ready to fight the world? Now she goes to her room and stays there for hours."

"You know I've been trying to keep her distracted with these dinners, but-"

"I think it's only making her feel worse," David's words cut her off and the way Snow promptly crossed her arms let him know she had taken offense at his words.

"David, I'm just trying to help her."

"I know you are, but maybe right now she doesn't want to meet anyone," David took a hold of her hand and tugged gently, trying to comfort her. "Let her be. Give her some space."

Snow assented, after a moment's hesitation. "Alright, no more arranged dinners."

Once Emma got to her room, she closed the heavy door and leaned her back against it. It was almost time for her to leave, but first she would have to think of a plan to increase the security of Misthaven. Only then could she think about leaving. At least that certainly wouldn't pose a problem - escaping through the window would be easy enough, she was far too accustomed to it by now.

"Oh, I'm sorry, your majesty," her maid said when she finally noticed Emma's presence. "I hadn't realized you'd be back so soon."

"You don't have to call me 'your majesty' in private, Regina," Emma chuckled, making her way to the iron desk and pulling the chair out. The castle had plenty of extremely ornamented offices, but she had always found all the paintings and busts of ancient family members distracting. It was simply impossible to get any work done there with all those faces staring at her.

"If you have work to do, I'll come back later," Regina picked up the broom she had been using to sweep the floor.

"It's fine, you can stay," Emma sat on the chair and pulled out a quill from one of the desk drawers. "I need to read this carefully and see how many guards out of service I can enlist to keep watch on the nearby villages."

"What for, if you allow me."

For the next minutes Emma explained everything to Regina, who appeared to be genuinely interested in knowing more about Misthaven's latest theft rates. When Emma was done writing the letter she would send to August requesting more of his watchmen, she put all the paperwork away and jumped from the chair like a spring. She could already feel the adrenaline running through her veins as waves of anticipation hit her. After a tiring morning, she would finally be able to do what truly made her happy.

"I'm leaving now," the excitement evident in her voice as she opened the window to her balcony. Even though Regina had no idea why Emma always ran away at certain hours of the day, Emma had made her promise she wouldn't tell a thing to anyone. "I don't know when I'll be back so don't worry about serving dinner at eight. I'll grab something from the kitchen when I get back."

"But tonight is your dinner with the Duke of Ostrana," Regina followed Emma to the balcony, trying to understand if the Queen was purposely ignoring the event or if she had forgotten about it.

"Don't tell mother, but I already informed the Duke's assistant that I will not be available today."

"Oh."

Remembering she had forgotten about one very important thing, Emma went back to her room and opened one of the doors to the closet. "My mother scheduled that dinner without consulting me and I have no interest in seeing that man again."

"I don't mean to intrude, your– miss Emma. But I believe your mother's intentions are good," Regina watched as Emma pulled a sword from out of the closet, her eyes twinkling with delight as she admired the blade. "You shouldn't always put your kingdom's well-being above your own. You deserve to have by your side a man who loves you wholeheartedly."

Regina was right, or at least partially right. She did need time for herself, but why everyone seemed to think her well-being was attached to a man pissed her off. There were plenty of other ways for her to do things she loved without any man being associated to it.

"I don't need a man by my side. And I would appreciate it if everyone stopped thinking they know what's best for me."

Regina smiled embarrassedly at Emma and could do nothing but watch her jump off the balcony.


New York – One year ago

Killian had never thought he would complain about an abundance of blonde women, but bloody hell, was this bizarre place filled with women with mainly one hair color. He had to admit he had always been partial to blondes, but not when such plethora of golden-haired women made it even more difficult to find one blonde in particular. The only one in whom he was interested in laying his eyes on.

He had spent the last two days going through the many bail bonds offices in town, hoping that this cursed version of Emma would still be doing her previous job, chasing criminals and being the cunning, brilliant lass she was. Long gone were the days he thought he didn't need her. He had tried to get back to his pirate life, but it was only when he got the Jolly Roger back that he realized not even his ship would be able to fill the hole in his heart. Emma Swan had inspired him to become the man he had always wished to be and she had changed him forever. There was no turning back. Part of his agony had vanished the minute he admitted it to himself: he loved Emma Swan and he would do anything to get back to her. Not for himself, but for her. He knew that this life wasn't real, she belonged with her family and those who loved her. He would help her find her way back to them, no matter the cost.

If, along the way, she came to the conclusion that he was worthy of her love, all the better. Her last words to him by the town line had given him hope. He was fairly certain that had been her own way to let him know that she felt something for him. That perhaps his feelings for her were reciprocated to the point a True Love's kiss could jog her memories.

On the third day, he finally found her. There could be plenty of blonde haired women in this town, but none of them compared to her, golden locks shining in the sunlight and framing the beautiful face that had haunted him for over a year. The lips he had dreamt of kissing again.

He had been so mesmerized by her that he almost let her get on that yellow contraption of hers without following her. By then, he already knew that there were other (uglier) yellow vehicles that would take him anywhere he wanted. Without thinking twice, he had gotten in one and asked the man inside to follow her. That was how he had found out where she lived.

After waiting some minutes to let her in, Killian realized she lived in a buiding in which only residents could enter. Luckily for him, though, he was a two hundred year old pirate. He had easily opened the gate with his hook – the hardest part had been preventing anyone from seeing him – but frustration had taken over him when he realized the building had forty five floors. How was this nonsense even possible? How would he even know which of those cubicles belonged to Emma?

He had had no other choice but to go through them all and knock on all doors until he found her. On that day, he got to the first twenty eight floors until an unpleasant gentleman threatened to call the police if he didn't leave the building. Realizing that being arrested would only keep him from finding Emma, he decided to inspect the remaining floors on the following day, first thing in the morning.

He couldn't believe it when, behind one of the doors on the thirty first floor, her face was the one staring back at him.

"Swan."


Enchanted Forest – Present Day

As he walked down the trail that would lead him to the castle (and hopefully to Emma), Killian tried to pull his white pants up. It had been a couple of centuries since the last time he had worn them and he was under the impression they weren't this tight back then.

He hadn't opened his navy chest in a long time, not really wanting to relive the memories of his and Liam's time as lieutenants, but he was thankful he hadn't gotten rid of their uniforms. His navy-blue jacket was at the bottom of the sea by now, victim of his vindictive rage after his brother's death, but Liam's jacket suited him well enough. It was a good thing this curse had kept the Jolly Roger and its possessions intact, because this uniform was crucial for his plan to work. Surely, they would allow a Navy Lieutenant in the castle and, once inside, he would find a way to get to Emma.

When he heard seagulls screaming, he stopped to take in his surroundings. There was a lakefront right ahead and he could see the Charming's castle in the horizon in all its magnificence. It should only take him a couple of hours to get there. He kept walking in long-legged strides, mentally practicing what he would be telling the castle's guards once he arrived, when the sound of a horse galloping had him hiding behind a tree for the second time that day.

He only had to wait some seconds until the white horse and its rider stopped by the lakefront ahead of him. His heart skipped a beat when his eyes fell on the golden tresses cascading over a long, white gown.

Emma.

A grin appeared on his face and he unconsciously licked his lips at the sight of her getting off the horse. Once her feet hit the floor, she started opening that mysterious bag, but not before casting a glance all around to make sure she was all alone. Killian knew she couldn't see him, but never one to be careless, he still took a safe step to side, hiding more of his body behind the tree. The sound of her heavy gown hitting the thick sand of the lakefront floor had his mouth dropping open slightly, his pulse racing a mile a minute. She was peeling another layer of clothes when Killian forced himself to look away. Even though she was his wife and he had seen her naked plenty of times, it still didn't feel right for him to intrude a moment he had no permission to watch.

It took everything in him not to look. All he needed was a quick peek, a sudden glance to feed his hungry heart, but he couldn't – he wouldn't. He would never not be desperate to see her, to touch her, because even though he knew every ridge, dip and crevice of her body, everytime he saw her in her naked glory it always felt like the first time.


Storybrooke – Ten months ago

When Killian had chosen the Storybrooke Seafood House as the restaurant he would take Emma on their third date, he wasn't expecting the food to be so incredibly bland and tasteless. Clearly, this world had no clue how to honor the many wonders seafood had to offer. Luckily, the perfect company and flirty banter had made up for the disgraceful meal.

"C'mon, it wasn't that bad," Emma laughed at Killian's overdramatic look of displeasure once they walked out of the restaurant. "The coconut prawns were good."

"Exactly my point, Swan. I'm afraid it's telling when the appetizer is the only thing worth praising. Everything else was an insulting disservice to seafood."

Emma had to control herself not to start giggling in the middle of the street at how affronted Killian was. It amused her how picky he could be over unimportant things and she secretly hoped he never stopped being that way.

"I still loved our dinner," she locked her arm with his, flashing him a tender smile that silently told him that the quality of the food was the last thing she was interested in.

"Aye, love. Me too," his soft words matched his own smile. Emma had never locked her arm with his before, but he intended on reveling in the feeling of having her body so close to his for as long as he could. When he felt her shiver next to him, he didn't hesitate in breaking away from her grasp to put his old pirate coat around her shoulders. It was an unusually cold and wet night and he had opted for what was still his warmest coat.

Emma noticed how Killian's eyes lingered on her cleavage for longer than usual and a hint of a smirk appeared on her face. Her choice to put on a braless dress for today's date had not been innocent. They still hadn't slept together and she was hoping that showing a bit more of skin would steer things in the right direction. Now that they were enjoying the rare, peaceful days in Storybrooke, she was anxiously counting the days until it happened. There had been plenty of thirsty, stolen glances exchanged between them in the last few days, but the circumstances had never seemed right. Their second date, only five days ago, had come to an end as soon as her parents had gotten back to the loft before she even had a chance to properly kiss Killian (rude). And now there they were.

"Thanks," her hands curled around the sleeves of the coat, closing it around her as his eyes reluctantly travelled up. "I had no idea this thing was so heavy."

"I barely notice it anymore," Killian grabbed her hand and started walking them down the street, completely indifferent to the cool, crispy wind sweeping through them. "But I do have to agree the leather jackets from your world are quite more practical."

"Well, I'm glad you went for this one today. It's freaking paradise in here."

The way Killian suddenly stopped walking caught her off guard, but then she saw that sexy smirk of his flickering at the corner of his face as he stood in front of her. "I'll always be happy to take my clothes off for you, Swan. You just have to ask."

There it was. She knew he wouldn't disappoint her. He never did.

A coy smile formed on her face as Emma's eyes perused his body. This combo of modern shirt and old vest had her wondering if she could rub her thighs without him noticing it. Would it look bad if she just had her way with him in the middle of Main Street? Yeah, it probably would. And later she would die of embarrassment, so she should just try and control herself for the meantime. But that didn't mean they couldn't have some fun.

"Guess I'll have to remember that," her voice was low as she closed the distance between them, sultry gaze fixed on his lips until he yanked her to him and covered her mouth with his. Emma had done a whole lot of kissing in her life, but nothing could compare to being kissed by Killian. There was something about his very talented mouth that always had her toes curling. Maybe it was the way he always found to slip his hook under her jacket, or how his thumb would caress her cheek. Whatever it was, she knew she never wanted him to stop kissing her.

A quiet moan escaped her when his tongue brushed her bottom lip, sending a sharp pulse of heat to her core as she eagerly opened for him. God, they really needed to get out of here and –

Then he pulled away. What the hell.

His eyes were still closed and his words came in breathless puffs. "Will you allow me to show you something?"

In her lust-filled haze, she hoped he meant his dick, but the tender smile he gave her as he opened his eyes let her know he was talking about something else. She didn't answer him, placing instead another gentle kiss on his lips before locking her arm with his again and waiting for him to take the lead.

It was a short walk to the woods, with only the moonlight guiding them as they cut through the dense vegetation. The ground was covered in slippery, wet leaves and muddy clumps of dirt and they held onto each other even more tightly. She had been here before in many of her Sheriff patrols and she had no idea what Killian could possibly want to show her, but she trusted him and his romantic ways.

"We're almost there," he brushed a twig away from her so she could safely pass without it scraping her face. "It will be worth it, Swan. I promise."

"I think I'll be happy with anything that doesn't involve you killing me and burying my body somewhere in here."

He gave her a look at her teasing tone before pulling her by the hand toward one of the cliffs.

"Careful, love," his hand and hook rested against her elbows as he gently walked her ahead of him, but still safely away from the edge. The cold wind that blew in her face was something she could do without. She would probably be freezing if Killian hadn't given her his coat.

When they stopped, she took in the view, trying her best to ignore how much she enjoyed feeling his body pressed against her back. It was a pretty view – the glow of the town's soft city lights being engulfed by the dark-moon sky. She had never considered landscape watching as the ultimate romantic program, but his intentions warmed her heart regardless.

"It's beautiful," she said, smiling at the way his arms sneaked around her waist and his nose nuzzled against her ear.

"I didn't bring you here for you to appreciate a landscape you have seen hundreds of times before, Swan." Before she could even ask him what he was talking about, his breath was hot in her ear. "Look up, love."

It was only when she tilted her head up and saw the starry sky in its full glory that she understood why he had brought her here. There was something about that exact spot that made it seem like the stars were within her reach. It was simply breathtaking.

"That is the Cygnus constellation. It's the Latin word for 'swan'," Emma could hear the joy in his voice as she kept her eyes focused on the stars above her. "Usually the Northern Cross is far more noticeable than the entire constellation. Can you see it?"

She honestly had no idea what he was talking about, but everything became clear once he lifted his arm and traced the pattern of the cross with his hook. Oh. She could see it, too.

"Yeah, I can."

"When I was first exploring Storybrooke, I found this spot and was marveled at how easy it was to identify this constellation in particular," her breath caught in her throat when he started swaying them back and forth to the rhythm of nothing but the sounds of wildlife within the woods. "Perhaps it was a sign all along that I was meant to stay here."

"Maybe it was…" she smiled at him out of the corner of her eye until they fell into the quiet rhythm of their swaying. As Emma stared at the sky, Killian closed his eyes at the feel of her back pressed tightly against his chest. If he could stay like that forever, with Emma in his arms, he would. When the sweet scent of her shampoo invaded his nostrils, he almost lost it. She always smelled so delicious. So warm, so lovely. So Emma. Images of himself undressing her and taking her right there under the stars, started flashing in his mind as a bolt of desire shot through him. He drew in a long breath at the realization that he was quickly losing all his self-control, feeling himself begin to harden.

Emma's breath stuttered when his erection poked her butt, electricity coursing through her and making her forget all about the stars she had been so interested in just seconds ago. It seemed she definitely wasn't the only one craving something other than stargazing. She had felt him like this before and she had always been flattered to have such an effect on him. Not wanting to miss yet another chance, Emma rubbed herself against him and the deep groan she elicited from him had her grinning from ear to ear.

Just when she was about to turn around in his arms so she could kiss him, rain started falling over them in a torrent of large drops.

Seriously?

She swore someone up there didn't want them to fuck. That was the only logical explanation at this point.

"We should probably find shelter," Killian yelled through the heavy rain as he pulled Emma under a large tree that they figured was useless in protecting them from the violent raindrops.

"Follow me," making sure that Killian was right behind her, Emma started running, the cold drops hitting them as they picked their pace. As grateful as she was for Killian's coat, it didn't exactly make it easy for her to move and they took longer to reach the cabin she knew was nearby.

Emma kicked the wooden door open, knowing already that there would be no one inside. There were around three or four abandoned cabins in the woods and still to this day nobody knew who they belonged to.

"Ah, much better," Killian ran a hand through his rainsoaked hair once they got inside. "Well done, Swan."

"There's no power," Emma said after nothing happened when she flicked the switches. The dim moonlight penetrating through the windows was the only light they could count on until the rain stopped.

Whoever this cabin belonged to, going by the objects they could make out in the dark, it seemed to only have a small kitchen, a living room and a bathroom. There was a sofa, a storage closet and a fireplace in the living room area and a small, square table near the kitchen counter. Being clad in wood, the cabin wasn't too cold, but with her wet clothes clinging to her skin, Emma started quivering and quickly decided to look for some blankets they could use to warm themselves up. As she walked straight to the closet, she could hear the sound of the water draining from her clothes hit the floor. Please let there be blankets, please let there be blankets, Emma chanted to herself. She almost squealed when two big brown blankets came into view once she opened the closet. While putting them on the couch, she sensed Killian moving behind her and she followed his movements, surprised to see that he had managed to find some firewood under the kitchen table. Thank God.

"We may as well make the best of the resources we have," he smiled at her as he dragged the box filled with logs to where she was standing, in between the closet and the fireplace.

"Great. Let me see if I can find some matches," having only one window, the kitchen wasn't as well lit as the living room, but she could still find an old box of matches inside one of the cabinets.

It only took them a minute or so to light the fire and they exchanged a comfortable smile as they stood in front of the fireplace, enjoying the heat. It was still pouring outside and it didn't look like it was going to stop anytime soon. She had always hated the rain, but when she thought of what they had been just about to do when it had started downpouring on them, she felt even more like kicking the Gods above.

Her eyes sought Killian, who appeared to be intently focused on the flames. A hint of a smile formed on Emma's lips when she admired the way the fire light lit his face. He was beautiful. His hair was all wet and disheveled from the rain and she could see some drops of water running down his face. His jaw was twitching, an undeniable sign that he was nervous, and Emma hoped that it was a good kind of nervousness. The "I want to fuck her but what should I do" kind of nervousness. Without even realizing it, her eyes were now on his groin and it was quite clear that the cold rain water had helped him cool down. Sadly.

Another shiver ran down her spine and she didn't know what caused it: the cold she was still feeling or her sudden lewd thoughts. Killian's coat had gotten even heavier now that it was soaked in water and when she shrugged it off her shoulders, she felt Killian's eyes on her.

"It's heavier," her voice came out shaky, surprising even herself. After all, he wasn't the only one who was nervous. "And colder now that it's drenched with water."

"Of course," was the only response she got as he watched her drop the coat on the floor. Embarrassment hit him when he realized how his "of course" hadn't made a whole lot of sense, but he was having a hard time concentrating on anything but the way the soft fabric of Emma's dress was sticking to her skin, revealing more of her delicious curves to his hungry eyes. His gaze inevitably fell on her breasts. He swallowed hard when he saw the outline of her erect nipples through the wet fabric and his heart skipped a beat. In that moment, it became even clearer to him that he wanted nothing more than to please this woman in every possible way. Forever.

Emma's amused sigh brought him out of his daze and for the first time in a long time, he didn't know what to say or do. It was as if getting a glimpse of Emma's naked body had made him forget about basic human behavior.

"Sorry, love," he mumbled, scratching one of his sideburns with his hook. "I didn't mean to…"

Emma stood there staring at him with a glazed look in her eyes as she waited for him to finish his sentence, but he never did. Had she ever seen Captain Hook embarrassed for having been caught taking a peek? Their eyes locked in a mutual embrace and a rush of adrenaline traveled down her body when she saw the restless desire in his gaze.

"It's okay, you can look," she was nervous as hell, but this time her voice didn't tremble and exuded a confidence that left Killian breathless. Watching his reaction was what Emma needed to take his hand and hook in her own hands and guide them to her breasts. "You can touch, too."

The way Killian looked like a deer caught in the headlights had Emma fearing he was going to pass out. This was not what she was expecting after making it so painfully obvious that she wanted him. She prepared to say something, but without warning, Killian lunged at her and took her in a kiss that was the perfect mix of rough and gentle. She groaned when his hand kneaded her left breast and wasted no time in pulling the material away. Oh yes, the pirate was back.

"I've been dreaming about this ever since we met, Swan," he whispered against her lips when they broke apart, but he never let her answer, claiming her lips in another scorching kiss. Her legs buckled a little when the cold metal of his hook grazed her nipple and Killian gently laid them down on the floor, neither of them caring that they had landed on his wet coat.

He tasted her first, his expert tongue touching and licking her in the place she wanted him the most. He licked up and down her swollen flesh until he sent her over the edge with a flick of his tongue, his name falling from her lips in a loud moan of pleasure. Never satiated, he turned her around, her breasts and stomach pressed against the pirate coat spread on the floor as his hand traced patterns all over her bare back and arse. Emma Swan was the most beautiful woman he had ever laid his eyes on and he intended to show her just that.

Leaning over, he pressed languid kisses to her smooth skin, letting his lips travel all over her. When he got to her bottom, his tongue laved the small mole on her right buttock as he felt her hand searching for his erection.

They took their time exploring each other's bodies, savoring each touch, each kiss until it all became too much. Her body convulsed first, her fingers curling into his skin as the cabin's lights flickered to life. Knowing he was the one having the honor to bring Emma to the brink of pleasure was enough to make Killian groan, his own release lighting every nerve on fire until his thrusts became lazy and he slumped against her, boneless.

Their heavy pants were the only sound echoing in the cabin for a long while until they drifted to sleep in the place they had been looking for their whole lives: each other's arms.


Enchanted Forest – Present Day

By the time Killian peeked through the tree branches, Emma's white cape was on the floor and she had on some high knee black boots, a metal vest and she was holding a sword in her hand. He was marveled at the sight, it was almost as if she had transformed into another person. That change of clothes had to be what she was hiding in the bag. One minute she was the Queen in her long, white gown and the next she looked like a warrior.

He kept quiet, waiting to see what she would do next. His mouth curved into a smile when she started practicing some movements with the sword. At each graceful and confident move of hers, Killian soon realized that this version of her appeared to be even better at sword fighting than the real Emma, a detail that could work in his favor. Without thinking twice, he walked from behind the tree as silently as possible and made his way to the lakefront, stepping on the sand just as she was performing a rather agile move.

"Good form," at the sound of his voice, Emma instantly turned back, her body standing in a defensive position as she held the sword in front of her. Surprise hit him when he realized the sword she was holding was the Fragarach.

Of course.

Emma was holding it when the curse hit them, it made sense she was still carrying the sword in this world.

"Who are you?" she asked with a sharp glint of suspicion in her gaze.

"Lieutenant Killian Jones," he greeted her with a curtsy as she looked at him with a curious look on her face.

"Emma S-"

"Swan," her eyes widened when she heard him say her last name. Why did his voice sound so familiar? She didn't understand. She had never seen this man before. "Your reputation precedes you."

That seemed to be enough for her to put her sword down. "Have you been spying on me for too long?"

"Not quite. I was on my daily stroll to the harbor when I noticed an athletic lass sword fighting thick air," he waved his hand absentmindedly and started walking towards her. "What can I say? I got curious."

"I'm happy I amused you," there it was. That sarcastic smile that was a fitting replacement for "fuck you". There was a tinge of annoyance in her eyes before she got back to her training session, ignoring his presence. That was fine. If there was one thing courting Emma Swan had taught him was how to be patient.

"You know, as entertaining as sword fighting an imaginary friend is, having a real person to practice with is even better," he said, hoping she would react the way he had planned.

"Are you challenging me?"

He raised an eyebrow at her as his hand rested on his black belt. "Perhaps I am."

He spotted a hint of a smile on her lips as she crossed her arms over her chest. "I'm not one to turn my back on a challenge."

"Don't I know it," she sent him a look, clearly not understanding what he had meant by that, but he quickly changed the subject. "May I suggest that whoever wins owes the other a favor?"

He pulled out his own sword then, but now was her turn to raise one eyebrow at him. He could tell that she was confident she would win. Perhaps that is why it didn't take her more than some seconds to nod and agree to it.

Emma held the Fragarach a few inches from Killian's chest, an exciting smile on her face as she waited for him to move. Without any warning, Killian leaped to the side, trying to trick her into leaving one side of her body exposed so he could pretend to stab her, but Emma didn't fall for it and remained in her place.

"I wasn't aware that Navy Lieutenants were such smart sword fighters," she took a step back, sword in guard, and Killian smirked at her as he dashed at her.

"So you admit I'm good."

"You are," she grunted, stopping his tackle. "There's no denying it."

She was good, too. Very good, actually. However, she still couldn't compare to his two hundred years of piracy. With Killian keen on giving his best, it wasn't long until Emma was on her back, the tip of his sword safely away from her chest while Killian's lips stretched across his teeth in a victorious grin.

"Fine," she sent him a murderous look as she got up, pulling the blade away from her. "You win."

"I will let you know that I also excel in other departments," Killian raised a teasing eyebrow, not able to help himself. He could be old and grey and he would still be trying to charm her. "I'm a very gifted man."

Emma tried to look annoyed, but a smile eventually formed on her lips as she put her sword back in its sheath. "Alright, Romeo. It seems I owe you a favor."

"Aye, indeed you do," he shortened the distance between them until she was merely inches away. His eyes darted between her eyes and her lips and he suddenly forgot about what he had to say. She was so goddamn beautiful that all he wanted to do was grab her and kiss her. For a moment he saw a speck of recognition in her eyes. She may be cursed and not remember who she was, but there was still something pulling her to him.

Emma didn't know what was happening to her, but her heart pounded wildly in her chest when this stranger invaded her personal space. There was something about him, something about the way he was looking at her with such a warm, adoring expression on his face. It was as if he had some sort of power over her that made her feel and think things that she had deemed impossible. She didn't agree to fight strangers and she certainly didn't agree to do them any favors. Why was it different with him? Why did she feel like she knew him? Like she could trust him?

"Are you going to tell me what it is or…?" her voice was the reminder Killian needed to control himself. There was no use in fantasizing about kissing her when he knew that it would take more than a kiss to make her remember her real life.

"This may sound bizarre, but I need your assistance… to climb a beanstalk."

Emma suddenly looked at him as if he had three heads. "A beanstalk? What for?"

"To take me to the woman I love. My wife."

Emma tried to keep the disappointment away from her face. Of course he was married. Should she even be surprised? He was just another arsehole who tried to charm while being in a relationship with another woman.

"So you have a wife you have to get back to and yet here you are trying to dally with me."

Emma's slick words caught him off guard and his smile quickly turned into a frown. Perhaps he shouldn't flirt with her when telling her she is his wife isn't an option.

"I can assure you that my wife is the only woman I have eyes for," the honesty and sincerity in his voice were enough to let Emma know that he wasn't lying. Her superpower never failed. She found herself looking at his lips again, only this time she succeeded in fighting her silly infatuation for this man and walked away from him.

"Where is this beanstalk?" she asked, picking her white gown up from the floor.

"About half a day away from here."

"Then we should go," she didn't bother to look at him. "The sooner we get there, the sooner you will get back to your wife."


Storybrooke – Present Day

Storybrooke was such a wonderful town when none of the annoying, patronizing heroes were around. Calypso had a feeling that she would definitely grow to love this place. With the pirate and his gang far gone, it was only a matter of time until everything fell into place. No one could stop her now – she just hoped that Rumplestiltskin would be successful in his task in the Enchanted Forest.

After making sure she was not being watched, she approached the lakeside and opened the small, blue bottle in her hands, spilling some drops of the liquid in the water. Seconds later, a cloud of smoke started forming in the water and the same smudged figure from all those years ago appeared on the surface.

"It's almost ready, mother," Calypso said with a broad smile on her face.

"Well done, Calypso. Your father and I are very proud of you."

"I will not let you down. I promise."


Enchanted Forest – Present Day

There was a silence filled with tension between them as they walked side by side. Killian pretended to be focused on the long path in front of them, but he was well aware of how Emma's eyes searched for him every once in a while. His plan was to climb the beanstalk and find their True Love sapling and hope that would make Emma get her memories back. He wasn't sure if the beanstalk had grown after his and David's adventure, but he had no other options, he had to take his chances.

"How did you and your wife meet?" Emma broke the silence and tried to sound casual. "If you're making me climb a beanstalk you may as well entertain me with a good romantic tale."

"I'm afraid the first time we met wasn't too romantic," his whole face lit up as images of their first meeting flashed in his mind. "She held a knife to my throat."

"Wow, you must've made quite a first impression on her."

"I wasn't being entirely truthful and her cunning self saw right through it."

Emma nodded, caressing her horse's neck. "Good for – what's her name again?"

"Uh…" the question surprised Killian and he failed to come up with a name fast enough.

"What, you forgot your wife's name?" In that moment, Emma's entire demeanor changed and she frowned at him.

"Leia. Her name's Leia," he said, breaking eye contact with her and looking at his feet instead.

"Good for Leia. Knowing how to tell when someone is lying is the best ability one can have," Killian turned to look at her, not sure if what Emma said was directed at him in some way. He certainly recognized that tone of voice as the one she used whenever she wanted to send subtle hints at someone.

"Aye. Perhaps we should stop for some water?" he blurted out the first thing that came to his mind and that wouldn't sound suspicious to her ears.

"Sure. This way," she smiled at him, pulling her horse by the reins so he would follow her. "I know just the right place."

The small waterfall Emma guided them to was in a secluded, hidden spot with old and fallen tree trunks. There were long weeds all around them and they had to be extra careful to get to the water. Emma's horse had been uneasy at first, but she had been able to calm him down with some caresses and a hand full of grass.

"So… I've told you about my wife," Killian held out his hand for her, helping her jump over one of the tall weeds on the way. "What about your heart, your Majesty?"

"It's beating, thank you," she accepted his helping hand and tried to ignore the electricity that surged through her body when their fingers touched.

"I hear you have plenty of suitors."

"And yet not one of them interests me," the half smile she gave him was indicative of how she wasn't willing to talk about any of that. Never wishing to go against her will, Killian nodded in understanding and gestured for her to give him her canteen. "When was the last time you saw your wife?"

Killian stuttered again at her curiosity – the real Emma was not this inquisitive – and it took him some seconds to conjure an answer. "We were in… a tavern when we got separated."

His voice trailed off as he reached for the water and filled the canteen, feeling her gaze on him the entire time.

"Alright, that should do," he handed her back the canteen, his face slightly flushed from his effort to reach for the water without falling. "We should probably get going."

Emma forced a smile at him, but her feet stayed glued to the moss-covered ground, waiting for him to go ahead. Always mistrustful, his Swan.

He gave her an amused look and did as she wished, making his way to the main road. The next thing he knew, he was feeling a sharp pain in his legs pushing him down on his knees as a hand pulled on his hair.

"We're not going anywhere until you tell me who you really are," Emma's menacing voice was as threatening as the tip of the Fragarach she held at his throat. If the bloody blade hadn't been itching his skin, he would have laughed at the familiarity of it all.

"I am exactly who I say I am."

"For a man who claims to love his wife, you sure stutter a lot when someone asks you what her name is. Are you even married?"

"Yes, I am."

"What's your wife's name then?"

Killian tried to say "Leia" again, but he simply could not get the words out.

The Fragarach. It was preventing him from lying.

"No one can move or tell a lie with the sword at their throat", he recalled Belle's words.

No matter how much he tried, the sword's power was greater than any resistance he could offer and he had no choice but to blurt out the truth.

"Her name's Emma," he wished he could see her reaction, but the sword had him completely paralyzed. "You're my wife."

Emma pulled the sword away from his neck and took a few disbelieving steps forward. There was a heavy feeling in her stomach that hardened her expression when she couldn't detect any lies in his words. Her incredulity soon transformed into laughter. No, it wasn't possible. He was probably some wizard and was making all of this insanity actually look plausible. She wouldn't fall for it.

"I've met plenty of lunatics, but you're something else," she put the sword away as she kept laughing. Free from the powers of the Fragarach, Killian was quick to get up on his feet.

"Do you think I'm lying?" he stood in front of her, not bothering to keep a whole lot of distance between their faces.

Emma gulped at the feel of his hot breath so close to her as she glanced at his lips. They looked so full and… and… what was she doing? She was supposed to be inquiring him, not thinking about kissing him.

"You could be a good liar."

"We have done this before, Swan," he shook his head with a smile, remembering his days in New York searching for her. "I have no reason to believe the outcome will be any different this time."

Emma looked at him with a skeptical frown, her hand resting over the grip of her sword. "What happened before?"

"You trusted me, even though you didn't know who I was. That's what True Love does," her breath caught in her throat at the love and sincerity that radiated from his blue eyes. She would be lying if she said that he didn't have an effect on her, but she couldn't ignore the fact that he was absolutely insane. The things he was saying… it made no sense. His pretty eyes wouldn't change that.

"You're crazy," she lifted her gaze up to his one last time before walking past him. "And on your own from now on."

Killian watched as Emma pulled her horse with her and started walking away from him. He couldn't let her go, he had to do something. Say something.

"You have a mole on your right buttock," his firm words hit her like a slingshot to her back and she stopped walking. "You don't like it at all, but I find it quite charming."

Emma turned around, a sudden coldness hitting her at the core as she walked back toward him.

"How do you know that?" there was an intensity in his voice and a glare in her eyes that he hadn't seen in years and he knew then that she was afraid. Afraid that he was right and that the answer he would give her would make her believe him.

"Because I'm your husband, Emma," he whispered, his eyes never leaving hers. "I know every part of you."

Her expression softened as she instinctively edged near him. She was starting to believe him, he could feel it. Perhaps she just needed another push, another proof that he wasn't lying.

He smiled at her and dropped his satchel to the ground before he started taking off his navy blue jacket.

"What are you doing?" her voice was low as she watched him intently.

"I want to show you something," he turned the left side of his body to her and pulled his white shirt up. Emma couldn't seem to drag her gaze from the black ink that outlined a large swan over his ribs, her scripted name on the inside. "I still haven't shown it to you. I wanted you to find it by yourself."

Still staring at his tattoo, Emma blushed, figuring what Killian had implied. He was waiting for her to see it while she undressed him. Could it be? Could she actually be talking to her husband?

Maybe that's why there had always been something so familiar about him. Maybe, just maybe… he was telling the truth.

"Please, love," he took her hand in his and pierced her soul with his passionate gaze. "Come with me."


On their way to the beanstalk, Killian told her everything about them. He could tell from her reactions that part of her was still skeptical about everything, especially when he told her she had magic and was the Savior, but at least she hadn't called him crazy and hadn't run away from him.

"There's just something I don't understand," Emma said as the beanstalk came into view in the horizon. "If we really are… you know, True Love… why didn't you just kiss me to break the curse?"

"Aye, it's a little more complicated than that. True Love's kiss will only work if you have your memories. That's why we need to find our True Love sapling," Killian held up his hand in the beanstalk's direction. "I am hoping that will give you your memories back"

Emma bobbed her head, a confident grin cutting her face. "I guess we have a beanstalk to climb then."

"I'm afraid I can't let you do that," Emma and Killian jerked their heads in the direction of the voice that echoed behind them. Killian gritted his teeth when he found the crocodile staring back at them. His appearance was the same as in Storybrooke, no Dark One scales, sparkly skin or high-pitched voice. He was simply Mr. Gold.

Before Emma and Killian had a chance to do anything, Rumple flew them forcefully against the trees, a beam of magic blasting from his hand. Killian heard Emma groan and that was the only thing he needed to hear to keep his eyes open and ignore the pain in his back. He tried to move, but the Dark One was standing in front of him now, his hand still in the air and immobilizing him with his magic.

"I am going to enjoy this," Rumple's sickening grin matched the amusement in his eyes as he once again used his powers on Killian. An invisible force grasped at Killian's throat, leaving him without air. His head started spinning as he tried to gasp for air, but the more he tried, the more he felt his life slipping away.

"No!" the magical grip on Killian's neck was broken in time with Emma's angry yell and he found the strength inside of him to open his eyes and see a white cloud of Emma's light magic blasting Rumplestiltskin away from him. Emma stood there, not quite believing what was happening, but she didn't stop.

"You should know by now your magic is no match to mine," Rumple refused to surrender and sent another wave of dark magic in her direction. A burst of light blinded Killian for some seconds as light and dark magic clashed against one another. Emma grunted as she took a step back for balance while Killian's mind ran a mile a minute, his widened eyes glued to Emma. He knew that as powerful as Emma was, she couldn't defeat the Dark One. He had to find a way to help her. He had to-

Another burst of light erupted in front of him and with one final groan from Emma, her light stream of magic completely snuffed out Rumplestiltskin's.

Killian parted his lips and a frown took over his face as he processed what he had just witnessed. Emma's magic had overpowered the crocodile. She had been stronger than the Dark One.

"If I were you, I'd get the hell out of here," her words came out in between ragged breaths, her hands on her knees as she tried to recover from the demanding fight. Rumple stared at his trembling hand, taking some reluctant steps back before he lifted his head to look at Emma. The emptiness and defeat that Killian saw swirling in his eyes made for a look of utter desperation that he had never seen on the crocodile. It was almost as if he had come to a fatal realization. With nothing more than an incredulous nod of his face, he flicked his wrist and a cloud of purple magic engulfed him to take him somewhere else.

"Are you alright?" Killian rushed to Emma now that the were finally alone. He wrapped his arm around her shoulders and could feel her entire body shaking under his grasp.

"I have magic," Emma said disbelievingly, a hint of pride in her voice.

"Aye, love. You do." Killian smiled at her, pushing a strand of hair away from her face. "You saved me."

"I don't know what happened," she inched forward, letting her hands rest against his chest without even thinking about it. "There was something inside of me that made me do that."

"That is who you are, Swan," their eyes locked on like magnets and Killian fought the urge to kiss her. She was still Emma, but not the real Emma. It would feel wrong – and they still had a beanstalk to climb. "Perhaps we should rest for a while. Regain our energies to climb that –"

Before Killian could even finish the sentence, they suddenly appeared at the top of the beanstalk.

"Bloody hell," there were stone ruins and skeletons all around, just as he remembered. "How did we get here?"

"I think I did it," Emma blurted out as she took in her surroundings. As creepy and bizarre as that place was, she felt as though she had already been there. "I don't know why, but I pictured this in my mind and the next thing I knew, we were here."

Killian sighed in relief at Emma's admission. For a moment, he was worried that Rumplestiltskin had returned to play more of his tricks on them. Thankfully, this had been Emma's doing. Her fight with the Dark One must have sparked the magic inside her.

"Well, love, you just saved us from a lengthy climb," he was about to add how brilliant she was, but what he saw out of the corner of his eye prevented the words from escaping his lips. Just mere inches away from them, poking out of the stone floor, was the unmistakable sprout of the first spark of their True Love.

Killian kneeled on the floor to take a closer look at the small sapling, overwhelmed at how such a thing could have been created by their love.

"Is that it, the sapling?" Emma kneeled beside him, inspecting the sprout from up close.

"Aye," Emma felt her temperature rise under his appreciative gaze that practically drilled a hole in her head. "Are you ready, love?"

Without even thinking twice, Emma took Killian's stretched hand, her body always drawn to his as if he were a magnet. When their joined hands touched the sapling, a series of memories flashed before them.

Good for you.

Maybe I was… once.

Hey beautiful.

You and I, we understand each other.

Excellent show of patience, love.

Perhaps gratitude is in order now.

There's not a day that will go by that I won't think of you.

I came back to save you.

If it can be broken, it means it still works.

You traded your ship for me?

I can't lose you too.

I've been dreaming about this ever since we met, Swan.

It's you.

I love you.

That's not enough for me.

Let me die a hero.

I don't know how to say goodbye.

Swan?

Move in with me.

I will always, always be by your side.

Its is with great pleasure that I now pronounce you husband and wife.

Everything was gone in a matter of seconds and by the time Killian opened his eyes, he felt a little dizzy. It was the strong grip of Emma's hand on his that had him turn his face in her direction. When his eyes locked with hers, he finally saw that hint of recognition in her eyes that he had been searching for all day.

"Killian…" Emma lunged at him with a hug that nearly knocked him onto the floor.

It had worked. His Emma was back. She remembered.

They stood there for some minutes, reveling in each other's embrace until Killian felt Emma's warm fingertips pulling his shirt up. Tears prickled her eyes when she admired his tattoo once again, letting out an emotional chuckle. So that was why he had winced when she had poked him in the ribs the other day after their swordfight lesson. And why he had refused to take off his shirt while they were making love. He had been hiding the tattoo from her. "I love it… I love you."

Emma held his face in her hands, caressing his cheeks with her thumbs as she bared her teeth in a wide grin. Not wanting to waste even another second, she kissed him, and a sudden and intense burst of magic enveloped them in a rainbow as their True Love's kiss broke Calypso's curse, sending them and everybody else back to Storybrooke.


At Granny's, everything went back to how it was: Emma was holding the Fragarach in her hand and the roof was intact again. For some reason, however, she and Killian were the only ones who were awake. Her parents, Henry, Regina and everybody else were lying on the diner's floor in peaceful slumber.

"They're alright, love. We don't all wake up from our cursed state at the same time," Killian tried to ease her, recalling the way he had awoken first than everybody else when they had gotten back from the hideous reality the author had created. "I should know."

A shadow on the other side of the window caught their attention. Peeking through the window, they saw none other than Morgana, who froze when she saw them inside the diner. The unexpectedness of their encounter had both parties staring at one another for some seconds and it was only when Morgana took off running that Emma and Killian bolted out of the diner.

The streets were empty and it was easy to recognize the running body far ahead of them as the one belonging to Morgana. There was only one place that road could lead her to – the docks. Sharing a knowing glance, Emma and Killian agreed to part ways in order to corner Morgana without her expecting it. Emma would take the main road and Killian would turn left.

In the short run to the docks, all kind of scenarios went through Emma's mind. What if Morgana, or rather Calypso, wasn't working alone? What if the Fragarach couldn't kill her? Maybe it was better to search in the cannery first as there were plenty of places where she could be hiding by now.

Of all the things she had imagined when arriving at the docks, Emma hadn't expected to find Morgana sitting peacefully in one of the benches, quietly contemplating the water. What was she up to?

With the Fragarach in hand, Emma took careful steps forward until she was face to face with Morgana. There was a suspicious calmness to her that had Emma in high alert, a feeling that was only heightened by the sword resting on Morgana's lap. How could she just sit there and pretend she hadn't cast a curse on them? Or that she had tried to send them all away from Storybrooke? Not to mention how she had made a fool out of them all and had taken advantage of the second chance Emma had given her.

A sudden burst of anger washed over Emma and she held the sword in a defensive stance.

"What do you want from us?" she was done playing games with Morgana, who appeared to have a different plan. She didn't even bother to look at Emma, keeping her eyes trained on the water.

"Isn't it beautiful?" she said after a minute of silence, lifting her gaze up to meet Emma's. "The sea has always brought me peace."

Emma stepped back when Morgana stood up from the bench, sword also in hand. Emma's body slumped, losing its stiff posture once she spotted Killian far in the distance, silently making his way to them from behind Morgana.

Feeling a new surge of confidence, Emma took a step forward with menacing intensity. "What do you want?"

"I'm not going to fight you, Emma," Morgana threw her sword away, the shrieking sound of metal against concrete stabbing Emma's ears. She didn't know what confused her more: Morgana's move or the unnerving smile that was wiped across the lady's face.

"Who are you?" Emma insisted, about to lose her impatience. Killian was now just a few steps behind Morgana and he seemed as surprised by Morgana's passivity as she was. He let Emma carry on with her interrogation, but he was ready to pull out his sword at any given moment.

"I'm Morg-"

"You and I both know that's not your real name," Emma didn't let her finish, pointing the tip of the Fragarach at her throat and asking her one last time, "Who are you?"

There would be no lies now. She would only be able to tell the truth and reveal herself as Calypso once and for all.

Gulping amidst her sudden paralysis, Morgana's words came out in a whisper.

"My name is Anne Bonny. I am Killian's mother."