Author's note: Like I said with the last update, lots more story left now that the events of Frozen are behind us. Thank to everyone who's liked or favorited this story! You're the best. I hope you enjoy this update!

Disclaimer: Sorry.

Chapter Thirteen

He felt heavy, leaden. There was no pain, just tiredness. It took Liam a few moments to remember what had happened. Hans. Getting stabbed. The storm. That bloody snowman. He had a vague recollection of light flashing; that must have been Emma's magic. Healing him. He knew she was powerful but he'd never truly grasped the extent of her powers. She saved him.

"Liam?" Elsa's sleepy voice cut through the darkness; his answering smile felt more like a grimace.

"I didn't know you were here," he said gruffly, trying to sit up.

Elsa placed a hand on his chest. "You're to rest," she said firmly. "Doctor's orders."

Liam blinked, trying to find her silhouette in the dark. "I'm fine."

"Don't," Elsa said softly. "Don't be the Captain, Liam. I couldn't bear it."

She was lying next to him, in his bed. He found her worried blue eyes, remorse washing over him. "I'm sorry, love. I'm just...my life hasn't granted many opportunities to simply rest."

"Looking after your brother." Liam nodded. "Killian's fine; I'm sure he and Emma are still asleep."

Liam looked away, not really wanting to know what his brother was up to with the princess. There were some things he didn't need to know. "What time is it?"

"Early. Not yet sunrise."

"You stayed with me."

"This was where I needed to be."

Liam hesitantly reached for her hand. "Why?"

Elsa looked away. "You should go back to sleep. The doctor said you lost a lot of blood."

"I'm okay for now. But I think we should talk, Elsa."

Elsa sighed; she knew he was right. She could do this. "I almost lost you," she said softly. "When we found you and I realized I might not get to tell you...it was the worst feeling, Liam."

"Tell me what?" He slipped his fingers between hers, squeezing gently, hoping to encourage her. He wore his heart on his sleeve for this woman; he needed to hear the words.

"That I...I love you, Liam. I'm sorry I ran away. That I hurt you."

"You didn't hurt me, lass." She huffed; he gave her a crooked smile. "It might have stung a little. But I had hope you would come around."

"I was so scared. I couldn't stand it if you got hurt because of my powers."

"Instead I got stabbed by a traitorous weasel," Liam groused, coughing a little. Elsa held him, worry etching across her delicate features. "I'm okay."

"Water?"

"Thanks." Elsa moved to fill a glass from the pitcher on the nightstand; the bed dipped as she returned. Liam sipped greedily as she tipped the glass to his lips. He had to admit he liked her taking care of him; it had been many years since he'd had the benefit of a woman's touch when he was under the weather.

"You really should rest," Elsa admonished, setting the glass aside.

"Not until I've said something," he declared, forcing himself to sit up. He found her hands—blessedly free of gloves—and held them in his. "I'm in love with you, Elsa. I think I have been from the moment I met you."

"You made me blush. I didn't think I could still do that," she admitted.

"I remember."

"What happens now?"

He smiled. "This." He tugged her close, brushing her lips with his. She was warm, lips soft and inviting. A little sigh escaped her lips and he kissed her again, pulling her even closer. Elsa braced her hands on his chest, letting him guide her in the unfamiliar dance. "Is this okay?" Liam asked, lips skimming the corner of hers.

"Am I doing it right?" she asked, a little uncertain.

"You're doing fine," he assured her. He covered her lips with his, coaxing her to open for him. She gasped as his tongue began to probe, slipping past her lips; she could almost taste the passion he'd held in check all these weeks. It was intoxicating and Elsa moved closer, her gown hindering her movements. She tugged impatiently, the slit finally giving way so she could climb into his lap.

"Liam," she whimpered, a needy sound that didn't even sound like her. She'd been so cold and lonely, for so many years, but this...this was heaven. His arms around her, mouth on hers, warmth spreading through her rather than ice.

"Shh," he hummed, lips brushing her cheek. "I'm just happy to have you here in my arms, love."

She cupped his cheeks, beard scratching her palms. She couldn't believe she could feel him and not have to worry about hurting him. But she understood how her powers worked now. She was finally in control. And she loved this man; she could never hurt him. "I'm so sorry I pushed you away. I didn't want to."

He brushed a stray hair back into her plait. "All that is in the past, Elsa. We're here now. If you want me."

"I never expected you," she admitted. "But I'm glad you came here."

"As am I. I have to admit, it wasn't a duty I sought."

Elsa giggled. "Escorting royalty?"

"Aye. Killian protested most vigorously."

"I'll bet he did. But he seems happy."

Liam's face softened. "I'm happy for him. Emma is an extraordinary woman."

She wanted to ask what would happen now. She knew Liam had a duty to return Emma home. But they could talk about that later. Liam still needed to rest, no matter how much he protested. "Rest, Liam. Please. I promise we'll talk."

"Will you stay?"

She surprised herself by kissing him. "Of course." Blushing, she climbed off him, waiting until he laid back down. She stretched out beside him, but he pulled her close, tucking her under his chin. She wrapped her arms around his waist, listening to his heartbeat as he fell asleep.

Emma woke to a stiff shoulder, wincing silently. She lay on her side, arm wedged under her. Killian was pressed against her back, still asleep. It hurt quite a bit, but it took her a moment to recall how she'd come by the injury. Ian had wrenched her arm, she remembered now. The pain had faded during all the excitement of the following few hours but it was back, aching fiercely.

Slowly, Emma edged out of the bed, rolling her shoulder. Pain lanced through her and she groaned. She rarely did magic on herself, but she didn't want Killian to worry. Or worse, blame himself. There was nothing either of them could have done; Ian was in a cell, unable to hurt anyone else. Emma touched the skin lightly, focusing on the spell. A flash of light lit up the room; she instantly felt better.

"Emma?"

She turned, face apologetic in the low light. "Go back to sleep."

"Did you do magic?" Killian persisted, his low voice rough with sleep.

"Just a little."

Killian propped his head up. "Come back to bed, love."

"One minute?" She briefly squeezed his outstretched hand and went to get a drink of water from the pitcher. It was pleasantly cool in the early morning; it would heat up later. Summer was back, thanks to Elsa. Emma polished off her drink and padded back to the bed, tangling her feet with his as she settled in his arms.

"Your feet are cold," Killian complained.

"You don't have carpet on your floor," she pointed out. She tucked her feet between his legs, just because she could. "We could have slept in my bed."

"And have the serving girls catch me there?"

"The door's locked with magic. Besides you were worried about Liam."

His face softened. "We should write to your parents today, lass. I want to be able to hold you in public."

"I know." Them sharing a bed still needed to be a secret, but she liked their easy affection. "We'll do it after we check on Liam."

He smiled. "Thank you, darling." Emma returned his smile and kissed him sweetly. He growled low, arms tightening around her. "Gods, you're tempting."

"Only a few more days," she whispered, stealing more kisses. Now that they were awake, she wanted to just stay in this bed with him.

"I know." He combed his fingers through her golden tresses. "Doesn't make it easier." He'd never wanted anything in his life as much as he wanted her.

"I'm sorry."

He shook his head. "Don't be sorry, lass. I'm happy just knowing that I have your love."

She nodded. "Always." She kissed him again, mouth more insistent, pressing her body against his. "Please touch me, Killian."

He rolled her onto her back, hands sliding up her body. Her nightdress bunched around his arms as his rough hands skimmed her thighs and hips and stomach. His lips followed in their wake, nibbling at her skin. Emma moaned softly, squirming, breathing becoming shallow. Heat pooled in her belly; she whimpered as he kissed her soft golden curls.

"Want to lick every inch of you, my darling," he murmured into her trembling stomach. "Let me?"

"Please." He tugged the nightdress over her head, before following suit with his shirt. He kissed up her flat belly, hands palming her breasts. Her back arched into his touch, teeth sinking into her lip. His touch was everything, making her feel so much more than she ever thought possible. Unlike their interlude in the cabin, they could take their time, explore. She squirmed as he swirled his tongue around one of her stiff nipples, reaching up, fingers finding the rungs of the headboard.

"That's it," he said, kissing the beauty mark on her breast. "Hang on, love."

"Killian...oh gods, more. Please." He covered her mouth with his, kissing her deeply, roughly pinching her nipples. A pulse of lust shot through her; she liked that he didn't treat her like she was made of glass. He licked her fluttering pulse, tasting how much her heart was racing. Lips ran wet kisses over her collar, down the valley of her breasts. He sucked on each nipple until she was bucking under him, core aching like she'd never known before.

He paused, admiring her in all her flushed glory. He didn't believe there was a greater sight in all the realms than his princess wanting and aroused. Unless it was her falling over the edge. She was beautiful and she was his.

He moved between her legs, parting them with his hands. He could see her slit, pink and wet, dripping onto the sheet. He traced the gentle V of her hips, chuckling at the way she whimpered for him. He skimmed the inside of her thighs, lowering his head to kiss the smooth skin. His beard scratched her, leaving red marks in his wake but she relished it, the roughness making her shiver. "Fuck," she cursed, knuckles white on the rungs. "Yes."

Killian shuddered, his own need making his hands tremble. "Give me your hand, love." Curious, Emma unlocked her fingers and placed her hand in his. He guided her to his cock, encouraging her to stroke him. He groaned loudly, looming over her, on his hands and knees. "Want to be inside so badly," he mumbled, gently thrusting into her grip. "Just like that, Emma, nice and steady."

Emma gripped him, undulating under him, eyes riveted to his thick cock. She wondered if she would ever not be affected by the sight of his nude form; she felt connected to him on a level she'd never experienced and they hadn't given themselves completely yet. She could only imagine how close they would be once they crossed that final barrier. She needed him in her life, at her side; she would fight for him, no matter what.

"Love you," Emma whispered, letting go of the headboard to grip his neck. She crashed their mouths together, tongues dueling as she pulled enthusiastically on his cock. Killian shuddered, his orgasm building at the base of his spine.

"You first, sweetheart," he protested, sucking on her lower lip. "Want to taste."

Emma nodded furiously, stealing another kiss before he slid down her body. He parted her lower lips with his thumbs, inhaling the intoxicating scent of her arousal. His hips rutted into the mattress as he started to lick her, sweetness blooming heavy on his tongue. Emma bucked up, whimpering, reaching for his hair. She held on as he explored her with lips and teeth, finding things he hadn't that first time. They had more time now and he intended to take advantage.

"Killian, fuck," she hissed, trying to get him to give her more. She hovered so close to the edge, but he wouldn't let her fall. "Oh gods."

He wrapped an arm around her leg to hold her still, licking the length of her with the flat of his tongue. He was a quick study in most everything he did and this was no exception, learning all the little flicks of his tongue that made her whimper and beg. She trembled and shook, chanting his name over and over, desperate to come. "Please," she hissed. "Please."

Killian slid two fingers into her aching hole, pumping them slowly as he took her sensitive nub between his lips. Emma climaxed with a sharp cry, bucking in his hold, eyes squeezed shut. It washed over her in waves, until she slumped back against the mattress, spent.

"Alright, love?" Killian asked, trying to ignore his own need. He kissed the inside of her thigh.

She nodded weakly. "Yeah."

He grinned and slowly crawled up her body. "You are so lovely when you fall, princess. Thank you."

"For what?"

"For bestowing such an honor on a humble lieutenant." She was precious to him; he never wanted her to doubt it. "I love you."

Emma felt him, hard and heavy, against her stomach. "You're more than that to me." She lifted her head and found his lips, groaning as she tasted herself on his tongue. "Now where were we?"

Killian grinned and rose up on his knees. "You were..." He moaned loudly as she took him in her hand. "Fuck yes, so good." He watched her touch him, gaze flicking back to hers, hips rocking into her hand. He stole kisses, lips lingering near hers as she brought him closer and closer to climax. "Oh gods...harder, darling. You won't hurt me." Emma tightened her grip, stroking him faster, watching his face. His arms were shaking from holding himself up, body beginning to tremble.

"Let go," she whispered against his lips. "It's okay."

Killian's hips jerked as he groaned her name; euphoria spiked his blood as thick spurts of his seed fell on her stomach and breasts. She milked him dry, stoking until he began to soften. Killian collapsed, rolling onto his back, breathing hard. "Bloody hell," he gasped.

"You okay?"

He laughed breathlessly. "I'm fantastic." He found her hand, bringing it to his lips. "You are amazing."

"At least we're awake now," she joked, smiling at him.

He smiled back. "Lovely way to wake up. Perhaps a bit messy though?"

Emma blushed. "Is it...weird that I loved that?"

He rolled onto to his side, glancing down at the evidence of his pleasure on her skin. "No, love. Like you said, we can be anything we want here." He bent down and kissed her lips. "But let's get you cleaned up, yeah?"

Emma nodded. She watched as he picked up his discarded shirt, dipping it in the washbasin. He cleaned her cooling skin, brushing kisses in his wake. He tossed the shirt away and rejoined her in the bed. "We should probably get dressed," Emma said, curing into his side.

"In a few minutes. Let me hold you for a while."

"Okay."

The comfortable silence stretched on, neither wanting to break it. Breaking it meant leaving their sanctuary once more and dealing with the events of the last few days. They had to check on Liam; Emma knew Killian would be worried until they knew he was on the mend. They had Hans and Ian to deal with as well. Hans especially was a delicate situation. He'd committed unspeakable crimes; Emma didn't envy Elsa that decision.

"What are you thinking about, love?"

Emma sighed. "Everything that's waiting for us out there."

He tightened his grip on her. "It's all over now."

"But it's not. Not until Hans and Ian face justice."

"Aye. But neither of them can cause anymore harm. You're safe."

"I'm not worried about me."

"We'll figure it out."

"To do that we need to leave the bed."

"I know." He kissed her brow. "Shall we get started?"

Emma hugged him one last time. "Sure. Meet me in half an hour?"

"Of course." Emma climbed from the bed and didn't bother to find her nightdress before heading through the magic door between their rooms. Her room was empty; the cold bath still sitting at the foot of her bed. She smiled as she passed it; they had so many good memories already. She didn't want to focus on the bad. She washed her face and got dressed, slipping into a simple yellow dress. She didn't want to be the princess today; she wanted to visit with her friends and decompress from the excitement of the last few days.

Perhaps she could convince Killian to visit the gardens to compose their letters.

She brushed her hair until it shone, letting it fall over her shoulders in waves. Satisfied with her appearance, she tucked a small pouch of her tea into a secret pocket at her waist. It was more imperative than ever that she keep up with it; their longing only got stronger as they learned each other's bodies. Emma unlocked her door with magic and found Killian waiting for her, handsome in his uniform, freshly shaven, blue eyes twinkling. "Highness."

"Lieutenant." Instead of taking his arm, she slipped her hand in his. "No more hiding, okay?"

He swallowed but nodded. "As you wish."

"Let's go check on your brother." They walked downstairs, nodding at a few people as they went. Most of the guests were in the process of leaving. The Duke of Weselton was confined to his rooms until Elsa decided what was to be done with him.

Killian knocked crisply on the door. "Enter."

The door swung open and they found Elsa and Liam sitting together on the bed, a tray between them. "Are we interrupting?" Emma asked.

Elsa blushed. "No, we were just having breakfast."

"May we join you?"

"Of course. I'll ring for some more food."

"And a kettle?" Emma asked, smiling.

"One kettle coming up." Elsa climbed down, stepping out to give the necessary orders.

"How are you feeling?" Killian asked his brother. Emma took the liberty of moving the tray of food to the nearby couch and chairs, so they could all sit. It had the added bonus of giving the brothers a few moments alone.

"Tired," Liam said honestly. "But the doctor says that's from the blood loss. He'd never seen anyone survive after losing so much."

Killian's gaze flickered to Emma. "We have much to be thankful for."

Liam followed his brother's eyes. "How are you, Killian? We haven't really spoken of your adventures."

Killian sat on the edge of the bed. "As well as can be expected when a maniac tries to murder the woman you love."

"What?" Liam exclaimed, moving too fast and getting dizzy for his trouble.

Killian urged his brother to sit back. "It's a long story. But she saved my life first. If you truly want to know we'll explain over breakfast."

"Aye, I'd very much like to hear it. How are things between you? Well, I hope?"

Killian blushed, thinking about their almost insatiable need to touch. "We have an understanding, I think. I want to marry her, Liam." He waited, watching Liam absorb those words.

But Liam merely smiled. "Aye, I suspected as much. I'm truly happy for you, brother."

Killian frowned, brows knitting. "What? No lecture? No speech on how I'm making a grave mistake? Throwing my career away?"

"Why would I do that?"

"Isn't that what older brothers do?"

"Perhaps, but I can hardly lecture you of what I am guilty of myself."

Elsa had returned and was speaking quietly with Emma. "So you have talked to her." Killian observed that Elsa was much more relaxed and happy despite the ordeal they had all recently gone through.

Liam nodded, following Killian's gaze. "Quite early this morning, actually. I didn't intend for it to happen like that, but I...I couldn't have handled her running away again."

"She was distraught, mate. When we thought you might be..." Killian couldn't bring himself to say the word dead. "No one could doubt how she felt after that."

"Still, hearing it was nice."

Killian chuckled. "Aye, I understand that perfectly." No matter how many times Emma used the words, he never got tired of hearing them. "So what happens now?"

Liam shrugged. "I'm not sure. I need to write to the King and Queen, update them on what's happened. We'll be late bringing Emma home."

"Way ahead of you, brother. Emma and I intend to write them and explain this very day. Emma believes we should stay in Arendelle until you've fully recovered."

"A bold step, Killian. You really are serious about her."

Killian nodded. "It was her idea. She doesn't want us to hide any longer and I have to admit that's appealing. I'll make my formal request to court her in person."

Liam nodded, proud of his brother. "That seems wise. But I can't imagine them refusing you. The two of you are virtually inseparable."

"I love her," Killian replied simply. "She's where I belong." He stood, just as the extra tray of food was being brought in. "Now, brother, let's get you over to that couch." Liam protested as Killian helped him out of the bed and into a standing position. Killian was vindicated when Liam swayed precariously, still a bit lightheaded. The doctor assured him it would go away in a few days, provided he ate regularly and rested. But it was annoying as hell.

"Everything okay?" Elsa asked, sitting next to Liam once he was seated. "Dizzy?"

"It'll pass." Liam smiled at her, squeezing her hand. Emma saw the gesture, glancing at Killian and smiling. She was thrilled that her friends were happy. She and Killian were in the middle of filling plates and making tea when Anna and Kristoff arrived. Kristoff hung back a little as Anna rushed to embrace Liam.

"I'm so glad you're better!" she cried. "I was telling Kristoff that we could go find Grand Pabbie if you weren't. He'd fix you."

Liam laughed warily. "Grand Pabbie?"

"The leader of the trolls, obviously," Anna said matter of factly. "Didn't we tell you?"

"Anna, the poor guy's been resting," Kristoff said in his soft spoken way. He was taller than any of them, almost too big for the room. But Emma was starting to see what Anna saw in her new friend. "He doesn't want to hear about us almost getting married by rock trolls."

"What?!" Elsa cried.

Emma laughed. "Oh, this I need to hear!"

Anna plopped down on the floor and started munching on a pastry. "It was just a misunderstanding; they were trying to set me up with Kristoff but I was already engaged to Hans..."

"And freezing to death," Kristoff cut in gruffly. Elsa winced.

"Yes, that," Anna said briskly. "But that's when we found out about the act of True Love. Now I'm fine."

"It seems we all had some close calls," Killian observed, sipping his tea. He noticed Emma doing the same with her bitter brew. "Kristoff? Have a seat, mate. I know I'd like to hear more about these bloody trolls."

Kristoff sat in the remaining empty chair, still looking a bit wary. Killian could sympathize. He was plopped down in a room with three royal ladies and two naval officers, all of whom were very good friends. He must have felt like an interloper. But Anna scooted close to him on the floor, speaking as if she and Kristoff were old friends, who'd known each other for years.

Gradually, it all came out. Well, most of it. Killian did not mention the intimacies shared in their cabin shelter; that belonged to he and Emma alone. But they talked about the wolves, who has it turned out were most likely the same pack who attacked Anna and Kristoff.

"I promised Kristoff a new sled," Anna informed her sister. "Just so you know."

Elsa looked taken aback but said nothing. Liam took up the tale, describing Hans's manipulation of the Council, how he conspired to leave Liam behind when he went in search of Anna. Elsa scowled every time the man's name was mentioned and she would tighten her hold on Liam's hand. It was the first real affection Killian had seen from the Queen and it warmed his heart. Liam deserved to be happy.

"We tried to go after him," Emma said. "But we got delayed."

"That Ian guy?" Kristoff asked. "What's his deal anyway?"

"His family was murdered by the Evil Queen many years ago," Emma explained. "He hates magic as a result."

"Doesn't give him the right to try and kill you, love," Killian said fiercely.

"I know and he'll be held accountable. But many people fear magic, Killian."

"People fear what they do not understand," Liam reminded them. "And with people like Hans and the Duke of Weaseltown..."

"Weselton!" Anna cried in a terrible imitation of the man's voice. Everyone laughed.

"As I was saying, with people like that stirring the pot, it's all too easy to play on people's fears."

"Isn't there anything we can do?" Kristoff asked, surprising everyone.

"The only thing we can do is lead by example," Killian said. "Let the people see that not all who wield magic are dangerous or would use it for ill. It's the only way to combat such prejudice."

Emma found his hand and squeezed; she couldn't express how much his faith in her meant. Not once had he been afraid of her powers or thought she was some kind of freak.

"What happens to Hans and Ian?" Anna asked quietly.

No one had a ready answer. Killian was sure that Emma's parents would want to deal with Ian themselves. Liam seemed to be of like mind. "As Ian is a subject of Misthaven, we'll transport him back when we return to face justice," Liam informed Anna.

"Aren't you the captain?" Kristoff asked. "Why can't you judge him?"

"We weren't on board the Jewel," Liam said, feeling his energy begin to flag. Who thought a simple meal could take so much out of him? "He should stand trial in Misthaven; don't you agree, Emma?"

Emma shivered; it was hard to forget the man's hand around her throat. "As much as I don't ever want to see him again, you're probably right. I'm writing home today."

"Elsa, could we impose on your hospitality for a few more days?" Killian asked. "Until Liam recovers, of course."

"You must stay as long as it takes," Elsa said firmly. "Arendelle owes all of you a great debt, especially me."

"I think we should let Liam rest," Emma said, watching him carefully. He looked paler than when they'd arrived. "Hans can't hurt anyone else, not for a very long time. Perhaps we could all have dinner later?"

Elsa nodded. "I think that's a lovely idea." She stood and hugged Anna and Emma before helping Killian take Liam back to bed. Anna waved goodbye, taking Kristoff's hand, muttering something about finding Olaf.

"Do you need anything?" Emma asked Elsa. "Killian and I can stay with Liam if you want to rest."

Elsa shook her head. "I can do it. I...like taking care of him."

Emma squeezed her friend's hands. "I'm really happy for you both. I told you it would be okay, didn't I?"

"You were right. I'm glad you've decided to stay for a while. I'm not ready to let him go yet."

"Talk to him about it. I mean not right this second, but soon. You are the Queen."

"I am, aren't I?"

"As much I want to hope that my parents will be happy for me, I am a little worried," Emma admitted. "I want them to like him. And accept my choice."

"I'm sure they will. Killian is a wonderful man. You said they met him before you left?"

"Yeah, but he was only my bodyguard then. Now he's so much more than that."

Elsa had an idea. "As your host and your friend, I'll add a letter to them when you send yours. No one could argue Killian's bravery and courage. And he adores you."

Emma hugged her. "Thanks, Elsa."

"He's asking for you, Elsa," Killian interjected. "Seems a lady's touch is what he needs."

"I'll take good care of him, Killian," Elsa promised. "We'll see you at dinner."

"Ready?" Killian asked, offering his hand. Emma took it and nodded. They stopped by her rooms for some parchment, ink and quills to write their letters. Emma had no trouble convincing Killian to spend the afternoon in the gardens. They spread out the plaid blanket in their secluded nook and got comfortable, Emma smoothing out her skirts and Killian stripping to his linen shirt.

"So scandalous," Emma teased, looking him over as he sat beside her. She reached out and touched the patch of chest hair exposed by the partially open shirt.

Killian hummed in satisfaction, all too greedy for her touch. "You were the one who said no more hiding."

"So I did." Emma smiled and leaned over to kiss him, a sweet lingering kiss that deepened until they were sprawled across the blanket, short of breath. "I never get tired of kissing you," she whispered, stealing yet another.

"Nor I you," Killian retorted, combing his fingers through her hair. "My beautiful princess."

"Maybe we're just good at it," Emma quipped, stroking his jaw. The scruff was rough on her fingers but she liked it.

"Perhaps were should kiss other people and compare," Killian joked.

Emma's face darkened. "Don't even joke about that, Killian."

He smirked. "I think I like you a little jealous, sweetheart."

She pouted. "I don't really see how some girl in a random port didn't snatch you up," she commented. Killian was handsome—too handsome for his own good, really—an officer, polite, a quick study in kissing and other activities, if their experience was anything to go by. But she, Emma, was his first.

"Do you remember our first meeting?" Killian asked, drawing her eyes back to his. Emma nodded. "I've been so focused on my career, on making Liam proud...I just didn't have time. Or many opportunities, if truth be told. I wasn't one for the pubs or houses of ill repute on my travels. I didn't even consider such a thing until I met you."

"Is it selfish of me to be glad about that?"

He kissed her forehead. "I don't think so, love. I do remember thinking that you were exactly what I imagined that a beautiful woman should look like. You made me trip all over myself."

Emma giggled. "I remember. But you recovered."

"Aye, only to be beaten at swordplay by the same lady."

"Hmm, we should spar again soon. I miss that."

"We do have three more days to wait," Killian pointed out. "How was your tea?"

"The same. But I think I'm getting used to it. It's worth it, if we can be together."

Killian looked serious. "I love you, Emma. Even if we couldn't or had to wait. As much as I enjoy this," he gestured to their entwined bodies, "I love who you are in here." He tapped her chest.

"I know. I really do. But it's more than just about us being intimate. I've never...I had a crush, when I was fourteen. Graham, my godmother's husband. He was also the Huntsman who spared my mother's life. Anyway, I outgrew it pretty quickly, but at the time...now I finally understand what it means to love someone more than myself. And I want to share everything with you, Killian. Do you understand?"

He swallowed, ignoring the flash of jealousy in his chest. Emma loved him. He pressed his lips to hers. "Aye, I understand." He gently pulled her on top of him as they continued to kiss. It was lazy and slow, hands sliding over their clothed bodies. They tried not to get too worked up, as they were outdoors, but their attraction was simply too strong. Emma moved off him, apologetic, the tent in his trousers obvious. "Don't apologize," he murmured, kissing the back of her hand. "It'll pass."

"Can we just lock ourselves away?" Emma asked, running her fingers through his hair. "You know, when the time comes?"

"The palace may not be the best place for that, darling. We'll be expected."

Emma frowned. "Yeah, you're right."

"It's hard enough leaving our bed," he said. "But with the added incentive of having you at last? I shudder to think."

Emma grinned. "Are you nervous?"

"A little," he admitted. "I don't want to hurt you."

"You won't. You couldn't."

"Emma..."

She cut him off with a kiss. "Don't. I trust you, Killian. Maybe we should write our letters now."

He nodded reluctantly. "Aye." He sat up and fetched their writing implements. There was only one portable writing desk, so Killian used a large leatherbound book to write on. Emma nodded at him encouragingly before starting her own letter. Killian stared at the page for a long time, wondering how to put his thoughts and feelings for Emma into words. He made several starts, scratching things out, blotting the paper as he thought. He glanced at Emma a few times; she sometimes scratched things out too, but she was much farther along than he was.

It took a while but he finally came up with something he was...well, not happy with exactly, but something he thought expressed his feelings and intentions (at least partially, no need to rush things).

Your Majesties,

You may remember me as the officer entrusted with your daughter's welfare when we left port some weeks ago. Serving Misthaven has been one of the greatest honors of my life; I have long considered the Royal Navy my home. I never imagined another. Until now.

As the princess has told you, she and I have become close during our time together. It has not always been easy, but in all things I can see her kind and generous heart. She has entrusted me with her life, her secrets and I am most happy to say, her heart. We do not take this lightly; indeed, it was some time before either us would acknowledge such feelings existed. I love her and she has responded in kind.

It was my preference to express these feelings to you in person, however, as Emma has doubtless told you, we have encountered some trials during our stay in Arendelle. My greatest wish is to formally introduce myself to you and pay court to your daughter. I say this knowing a lowly lieutenant may not be what you had wished for her; I want only to make her happy. I fully intend to speak to you when we return, but Emma suggested we write ahead. I have learned she can be very determined when she wishes to be.

Respectfully yours,

Lt. Killian Jones

Emma watched as Killian wrote out a fair copy of his letter; she was still working on hers. She began by letting her parents know that she was safe and to ignore any rumors that may have reached them. Then she gave a brief description of all that had occurred during and after Elsa's coronation, highlighting Killian's courage at her side. She expressed her decision to stay in Arendelle for the time being until Liam was recovered and they could sort out what to do next.

Facts she could report, but when it was time to describe what Killian meant to her, she faltered. She chewed on the end of her quill, thinking. Finally, she just started to write.

If it appears that Lt. Jones features prominently in our adventures, that is not an accident. He's very diligent in his duties, and more importantly, I enjoy the time I have spent with him. Even when we were in danger. But my feelings for him go beyond respect and trust, Mama. I've grown up, watching you and Papa, and wondered if I could ever have that kind of love for myself. And I do. With Killian. It may seem quick or sudden or even unbelievable to you, but I know what I feel. He wants to speak to you when we come home, but I've already given him my heart. I pray you can find it in yourselves to meet us with an open heart. I love you both. And little Neal. I will write soon.

Your loving daughter,

Emma

"Finished, love?" Killian asked. He was worried about the crinkle in her brow as she focused; he knew words were not her strong suit.

"I think so. Do you want to read it?"

He shook his head. "I couldn't."

"Please?"

He nodded. "Would you like to read mine?"

"Yes." They switched and Emma got tears in her eyes as she read Killian's letter. She could feel his love for her in every word. It made her own look pitiful in comparison. As soon as he finished, she through her arms around him. "Thank you," she said, burying her face in his neck.

"I simply told the truth," he replied, kissing her hair. "Do you really think we can be happy like your parents?"

Emma pulled back and smiled. "I really think we can. I'm already happier than I can remember being in my life."

Killian laid their letters aside and pulled her into his lap. He kissed her hard. "That's all I want, Emma. To make you happy, for us to be happy."

"Then we're already well on our way," Emma replied, grinning. "So how about you go back to kissing me again?"

Killian smirked. "Aye, I can do that." He slanted his lips over hers, stealing her breath. She squealed happily as he flipped them onto her back and buried his face in her chest, her squeals melting into sighs of pleasure.