Author's note: This is gonna be longer than normal, because I want to address some things. I've gotten a couple of...suggestions? complaints? about the amount of smut in this story. Which kind of baffles me, because one, who complains about free smut, and two, I assumed that I had made it clear from the beginning that this was a smut fic. When I made that promise, I didn't think that this story would get as long as it did, but I've thoroughly enjoyed writing it and it seemed my readers did too. I've worked hard to make the plot as interesting and as fun as the sexy times, I hope I've succeeded at least a little. But let's be clear about one thing: I LOVE THIS STORY. Exactly as it is. It might be my favorite thing I've ever written. I have no regrets. When I write the sequel, I intend on it being more of the same. If that's your cup of tea...yay! If you think it's too much, then this might not be the story for you. That's okay. I'm not trying to change the world with my writing. I'm doing this for fun, for free, just like everyone else on this site. Anyway, this is the last full chapter, we just have the epilogue to go. I hope you enjoy it. :D

Disclaimer: Still not mine.

Chapter 21

Emma brought the steaming cup to her lips as she stared out at the horizon. The hot tea burned just a little as she took a sip, warming her all the way down to her toes, even though she wasn't cold. At least not physically. As the Jolly Roger sailed closer to their new destination, the air got warmer, the breeze sweeping away the chill. They were headed south, to a place where they could spend a few weeks in peace. She hoped.

Regaining her peace of mind was another story. Emma was still shaken by what had occurred in the alley in White Haven. The sheer power she'd felt scared her witless. If she focused on it for too long, she could feel the magic crackle across her fingertips, almost a living, breathing thing.

What was someone like her supposed to do that kind of power?

Emma blew gently on her tea before taking another sip. She liked it here. Out at the very tip of the bow, with nothing by open sea in front of them, was Emma's favorite place on the ship. Well, technically, it was her second favorite place, but she'd decided that the captain's quarters didn't count. She liked to come out here to think, to watch the waves rise and swell, crashing against the hull of the ship as they cut through them like a knife. The Jolly was making good time, her enchanted wood doing...whatever it did to increase their speed. Killian assured her that they would be within the confines of Ariel's father's kingdom by nightfall.

Emma was relieved that they weren't going back home. She wasn't ready to face more of their harsh reality just yet. When they returned, it was likely they wouldn't be able to leave the castle grounds; her parents would double the guards and take all sorts of precautions. The fact that the Dark One was still after her, couldn't just let them be, made her unbelievably angry.

She refused to raise her son in an environment of fear.

But first, she just wanted to pretend for a little while longer.

"Will the seas be kind to us today, my love?" Killian said quietly, wrapping his arms around her waist, his hand resting protectively over her stomach.

In spite of her worried thoughts, she smiled. "I think so. Looks like it will be a good day."

Killian rested his chin on her shoulder. "Aye. Mr. Smee tells me we've drawn an escort."

"An escort?" Emma asked, unable to keep the apprehension out of her voice.

"Look up." She did, seeing the small flock of seagulls flying in the same direction they were. Before she could ask, Killian said, "Those are black tailed gulls. Have an affinity for merpeople."

"Ariel?"

"Probably. Or her father, assuming she informed the King we were coming."

"I met him once. When I was little. Eight, maybe? Scared the shit out of me."

"Let us hope his demeanor has improved with time."

"I don't think he meant to be frightening. But he was big, even with the tail. And that trident was very pointy."

Killian chuckled. "I can imagine. None of the merpeople I've encountered were the friendly sort. Except Ariel."

"If the gulls are leading us, then I'm sure it's okay," Emma said with more confidence than she felt. "Ariel's our friend."

"She and Eric certainly seem trustworthy. And very insistent too. Wouldn't take no for an answer when they suggested this visit."

"You were going to turn them down?"

Killian kissed her temple. "Old habits die hard, love."

"I love you for trying." She tore her eyes from the sea and turned in his arms. His blue eyes looked down at her with such love, it made her breath catch. No matter what they had been through seeing that look in his eyes made everything worth it. She leaned up and kissed his jaw before resting her head on his chest.

His arms tightened around her, hand rubbing soothing circles into her back. "Anything for you, Emma."

Emma heard the commotion out on deck, the frantic sound of pounding footsteps waking her up. Killian insisted she rest, that there wasn't anything she could do until they made landfall. She agreed on the condition that he read to her for a little while in their cabin. The gentle lilt of his voice lulled her into a deep sleep, even though she wanted to listen to him. She'd missed moments like that when they were at her parent's castle; it felt like those times before they'd discovered the Dark One's nefarious plot, when it was just them and how they felt about one another. The simplicity of their life at sea was one Emma would mourn for a long time, even though she was happy about her impending motherhood.

Emma swung her feet over the edge of the bunk and tried to bend down for her shoes. Simple things like bending were getting more difficult every day as her girth increased. Logically, she knew it would only get worse, but she was still annoyed about it. She'd gotten used to dealing with things on her own in the months since she left home.

"Here, let me," Killian said, looking windblown but excited when he came in the room. He was kneeling in front of her in a blink, reaching for her discarded shoes.

"I can get my own shoes, you know," Emma groused.

"I know, love." He slid one onto her foot. "But you're going to have to get used to me helping you."

"You're going to spoil me rotten, aren't you?"

"As your husband and father of our child, I do believe that is my right," he replied with a grin.

"Be careful, once you start, I might not want you to stop."

"Who said anything about stopping?" He waggled his eyebrows suggestively, and Emma smacked him lightly on the shoulder. Killian just laughed, sliding the other shoe into place. "There. Now you're ready to be reintroduced to the King."

Emma inhaled sharply. "What? He's here?" She just woke up, she probably had awful bed hair, her dress would be wrinkled. "Are you mad?"

"I assure you, I am not. And relax, darling. You are stunning, as always."

Emma glared. "You need to have your eyesight examined, Captain."

Killian grabbed the small mirror off his desk and handed it to her. "See for yourself."

Emma looked in the mirror and saw her reflection. Her hair was a little frizzy, but a few strokes of a brush would fix that. Her clothes were fine. Her eyes were wide and alert, the panic fading as she stared. Damn mood swings. It was probably the thing she liked least about being pregnant. "Okay, okay. I overreacted." She handed Killian back the mirror and snatched up her brush. In moments, her hair was restored.

"Better?"

"Yeah. Sorry."

"You're with child, love. I think I can handle you shouting at me for ridiculous things every now and again. It's a small price to pay."

"I didn't shout!"

"At least you're not throwing things at me."

Emma couldn't help it; she laughed. Deep belly laughs that warmed her all the way to her toes. "Please don't let me do that," she managed to say. "I wouldn't want to hurt that handsome face."

"Too right." But he was smiling. He rested his hand on her rounded stomach, rubbing gently. "You're already causing quite the stir around here, little one," he said fondly. "You'll be a handful for sure."

"Well, he is a Jones," Emma said, covering his hand with hers. Then her brow furrowed as she felt something. Right where Killian's hand rested. She felt a flutter.

"Love, what is it?"

"Did you feel that?" she asked, excitement tinging her voice.

"Feel what?"

"I think..." She felt it again, a tiny flutter. "I think I just felt the baby move."

"Emma, are you sure?" She could hear the hope in his voice, the awe. And it broke her heart. Her pirate had been so hopeless for so long, he was still afraid that all of this could be taken away. As his mother was taken. As his brother was taken.

Emma pressed his hand more firmly against her stomach. "I'm positive. Maybe he'll do it again." Gods, she hoped so. She didn't realize until this precise moment how much this meant to her. To have Killian here for all of these moments. To see the look in his eyes as their baby made his presence known at last. And she nearly lost him, nearly came painfully close to losing the love of her life, father of her son. Emma had to blink back back tears, the emotion of the moment almost too much for her.

"Don't cry, love," Killian whispered, kissing away the tears that escaped. "I'm right here...oh! Did you feel that?"

Emma smiled wetly, nodding. "I did. I think he knows it's you."

Now Killian's gorgeous blue eyes were welling up, as he leaned forward and brushed a kiss to her lips. Then he knelt down in front of her, and replaced his hand on her stomach. "You're a smart one, aren't you, Liam?" he said, kissing her stomach. "Already know your papa. I love you so much, little one."

Emma ran her fingers through Killian's dark hair, grinning as he babbled nonsense to their son, pure joy written all over his face. Her heart ached with how much she absolutely adored him. Perhaps letting him spoil her rotten wasn't so bad, after all.

The milestone with Liam made them painfully late for meeting King Triton, but Emma was damned if she cared. The moment of feeling her son move for the first time, sharing it with Killian, was safely tucked away in her heart. No one was taking it away from her.

"Apologies, Highness," Killian said, as they leaned over the rail. Triton hovered next to the Jolly Roger's hull looking annoyed. His weathered face softened as soon as he saw Emma.

"It's quite alright, Captain," Triton said gruffly, his deep voice just as Emma remembered. Only this time she wasn't afraid. "Your lovely bride must come first. My daughter sends her greetings, your highness." He looked at Emma, smiling.

"You must tell Ariel that we are very grateful for her offer," Emma replied, her hand tight on the rail. "This trip has been much more...exciting than we would like."

"Rest assured that no harm will come to any of you as long as you are within my realm. The Dark One would never dare come here." The King tightened his grip on his trident. "And you are welcome to stay as long as you wish."

"Thank you, but we wouldn't dare trespass on your hospitality for longer than a week or two."

Triton looked at Emma more closely, his eyes widening with recognition. "Yes, I see. How long?"

Emma blushed. She'd forgotten how forward the King was. "About five months, your highness," Killian said, covering her hand with his.

"Yes, it will be important to get back to your own people soon. Or so my daughter tells me." It occurred to her that merpeople and regular people could be...different in that regard. Did Ariel and Eric have children? She couldn't remember. She'd ask her mother when they got home. Triton threw a sand dollar up to her, Emma caught it in her free hand. "Throw that back into the ocean should you need me," Triton said seriously. Then he nodded curtly and dove back into the ocean, tail splashing in the water.

"Odd fellow, isn't he?" Killian said as they stepped back from the rail.

"I think it was the mention of Ariel and children," Emma said quietly. "I wonder why?"

"Perhaps merpeople and humans can't have children?" Killian suggested.

"That would be sad." She couldn't imagine someone as kindhearted as Ariel not having a child of her own.

"It wouldn't matter to me," he replied. "If I could only have you, that would be enough."

Emma ran her hand over her stomach. "I'm glad that we have him though. I couldn't imagine my life without either of you."

"Everything will work out, love." he said firmly, as if sensing where her thoughts were headed. "Our family will stay together, I promise you. Then we'll see about getting Liam some brothers and sisters, yeah?"

Emma smiled. "Yeah."

The Jolly anchored offshore while they took one of the boats to the nearby island. It looked like one of the pictures in Emma's books when she was a child; it was so green and vibrant with lots of tropical flowers she'd only ever seen in paintings. There was a modest sized dwelling back away from the beach filled with food and linens; the bedroom had a balcony that had a spectacular view of the glittering ocean.

"This is...wow," Emma said, running her fingers over the railing of the balcony.

"Aye, Ariel said it would be. It was a gift from Eric on their marriage."

"She told you that?"

Killian shrugged. "He wanted her to have a way to be close to her family whenever she wanted."

In all the time she'd known Ariel, she'd never truly considered everything that the mermaid had given up to be with the one she loved. No longer being a mermaid meant that she couldn't be with her family again. She remembered Triton's eyes. Did that mean giving up a family of her own as well? The thought made Emma's heart hurt. Killian had given up his life at sea for Emma, to raise their son together. Her eyes drifted to the Jolly, their very first home together, that Emma insisted he keep, so that he'd always have that connection.

Just like Eric had for Ariel.

"What are you thinking about, love?"

Emma looked up at him, giving him a noncommittal shrug. "How much I love you," she said, something that wasn't completely a lie.

"That's a train of thought I would very much be interested in," he replied with a smirk, pulling her in for a kiss.

It didn't take them long to fall into a routine. It really did seem that they had finally found some peace amidst all the chaos. The only people other than each other that they saw were crew from the Jolly Roger, stopping by occasionally with reports on the sea conditions and how much rations they had left, important in case they had to leave at a moment's notice. Emma kept insisting she was fine, but Killian insisted.

Every day, he showered her with attention and pampered her endlessly. She thought he'd been attentive before Liam had really started moving around; he'd been going easy on her apparently. He hardly allowed her to lift a finger, fetching things for her, rubbing her back and feet, reading to Liam every chance he got. The fearless and indomitable Captain Hook was turning into puppy right before her eyes. That was until she looked at him a certain way, or did some little feat of magic, then her pirate was back with her, making her toes curl in pleasure.

The magic thing was fascinating to her. Ever since she'd used it on him on the Jolly, he seemed more interested in it than ever. With his enthusiasm and support, she was becoming more daring with it, trying new things every day. The incident in the alley had frightened her, made her realize just how powerful she could be. It was important to test her limits, to finally see what she could really do.

"I tell you, I can think of many a time where this magic of yours would have come in very handy," he said one evening as they waked along the beach. They were barefoot, letting the warm sand slip between their toes.

Emma gasped in mock shock. "Using my magic for selfish gain, Captain?"

He grinned at her, unapologetic. "Aye. I am a pirate, love."

"Well, it's not like I can complain. I use it for selfish ends all the time."

"You do?"

Emma touched her hand to his shirtsleeve; the material vanished, leaving him bare from the waist up. "That's much better."

"That's cheating!" he cried in mock indignation.

Emma shrugged. "Married a pirate, remember?" Then she took off down the beach, skirt held high so she wouldn't trip. Her balance was more precarious than it used to be, but she knew she wouldn't fall. Killian would catch her. She heard him growl and give chase, catching her around the waist.

"You are being very naughty today, princess."

"Enough to merit some punishment?" she asked, her fingers playing over his chest, little sparks of magic jumping between them. She grinned when she felt him stiffen.

Killian's blue eyes widened then darkened, catching on to her intent. "Perhaps not," he said. "You were right, this is much better." He let go of her, brushing some of her hair back with his hook. "Nice try though."

Emma pretended to glare at him, letting her magic warm up just a bit. She kept touching him, knowing that eventually she would get her way. Besides, she loved touching him, feeling the muscles ripple and flex under her touch, feeling how warm his skin was as she explored the contours of his incredible body. "That's too bad," she said finally. "I like being naughty."

"Do you now?" His breathing hitched as her hands slid lower, toward the waistband of his pants. "Do you want to be punished, princess?"

It had been so long since they'd done anything like that; suddenly, she wanted it fiercely. She wanted to feel his hand on her, showing her that fine edge between pleasure and pain. This might be their last chance before the baby was born. Emma looked up at him with pleading eyes. "I do."

Killian growled, his hand cradling the back of her head as he brought his lips to hers. He kissed her deeply, hooked arm sliding around her waist, bringing her as close as he could. Emma moaned into it, her tongue sliding together with his as she stood on her toes, trying to get even closer. Her skin burned where they touched; his missing shirt giving them more skin to skin contact than usual. She clung to his biceps, nails making little indentations on his skin.

"Bed," Killian breathed against her lips.

"Mmhmm," Emma agreed. "Let me." She held onto him and focused, willing them into their bedroom. A swirl of white smoke later, the sea smell was fainter and there was solid wood underneath their feet.

Killian looked around, then down at her, his eyes huge. "You are a bloody marvel," he said in awe.

"And I want you."

"I shall endeavor to please." He kissed her again, pulling on the laces of her dress. Heat pooled her stomach, anticipating his hand and mouth on her bare skin. She let him strip her, savoring every small brush of their skin, like licks of fire. "You are so beautiful," he whispered, nipping at her lobe. "Always."

Emma reached out for one of the four posters, curling her fingers tightly around it for support. Killian knew just how to touch her, his hand and hook sliding over her curves, fingers kneading the skin. Her head fell back as he licked at her nipple, teasing it into a painful point. She was so sensitive, every touch going straight to her clit; it ached painfully. "Killian..."

He shook his head. "Not yet." His lips left a wet trail of kisses along her throat, hand sliding over her flank and squeezing her ass. "Not until I've tasted you."

"Oh gods."

She was already trembling, heat flooding her. Emma leaned back against the post as Killian knelt in front of her. She watched with hooded eyes as he kissed his way up her leg, gently lifting her foot and and resting her leg on his shoulder. Instinctively, Emma reached back for the post, holding onto it tightly, gasping as Killian licked a stripe through her damp flesh.

"Fuck, you are soaked, lass," he muttered against her core, warm breath tickling her skin. His nose brushed her clit as he worked her over, mouth hot on her flesh, tongue teasing her entrance. She writhed above him, trusting him to support her as her remaining leg shook. Her cries of pleasure filled the room, as her peak coiled tightly in her stomach. He sucked her clit into his mouth, teeth scraping, bringing her so very close to the edge...then pulled away just before she reached it.

Emma howled in frustration, her body drenched in sweat. Below her, Killian just laughed. "You did ask to be punished, love," he reminded her, kissing the inside of her thigh.

"Oh fuck." If that was part of her punishment, then she knew she would enjoy the rest.

"Soon." Killian let her leg down, kneeling there until he was sure she had her feet back under her. Emma took gulpfuls of air, trying to regain at least some of her equilibrium before they continued. When her trembles subsided, Killian patted her calf lightly. "Bend over the bed, princess."

Emma inhaled sharply as she did what he asked, most of her upper body resting on the bed, her ass raised high in the air, in perfect position for a spanking.

"Gods, I wish we had our mirror for this," Killian said in a low voice as he stood. He ran his hand over the swell of her ass, giving her another little squeeze. "You'd like that, wouldn't you, love?"

"Yes." She tried to stay relaxed, not knowing when the first strike would come. That was part of the thrill. She squirmed a little, the anticipation getting to her. She gasped when it came, a hard stinging slap, the momentary pain blooming into warm pleasure that settled at the apex of her thighs. There were two more in quick succession, as Emma clawed at the sheets, half sobbing in pleasure.

Killian soothed her stinging flesh with his hand, a growl in his throat. "Such a naughty, dirty girl, Emma." He spanked her again, never hitting the exact same place twice. She was sure her ass would be a rosy pink by the time he was finished with her. She pushed back against his hand, eager for more. There was a longer pause than she expected, punctuated by Killian's sigh of relief. Emma peaked over her shoulder and saw his pants open, hard cock jutting out, his warm hand wrapped around it stroking.

Emma wasn't even embarrassed about the needy sound that tumbled from her lips; watching Killian pleasure himself was one of her many weaknesses. He caught her eye and smirked, knowing exactly what he was doing. "Bastard," she breathed.

"I'll have you soon, love. Very soon." He bent down and kissed between her shoulder blades. The tender kiss contrasted with the hard slap of his hand on her ass again, just as the stinging was subsiding. Warmth flooded her, wetness coating her thighs as he spanked her. Emma fisted the sheet so tightly it tore in her hands. Gods, it felt so good; she felt wanton and free, desperate for release.

The blows stopped as abruptly as they began, replaced by Killian's cool hook soothing the sting. "Such a lovely pink arse," Killian mumbled, stepping out of her field of vision. "I do love spanking you, princess."

"Killian, please," Emma pleaded, her body taut and aching. "I need you." She felt his cock rub over the crease of her ass, sliding down, down, down to where she was dripping with need. The head of his thick cock pressed against her entrance, sliding in oh so very slowly. "Yes."

"Fuck," Killian breathed, once he was fully sheathed inside her. "So tight. Feels fucking incredible." He pulled back slowly, dragging along her walls, taking her with slow deep strokes. He showered her with praise, telling her how good she felt, how much he loved fucking her, the things she let him do to her, that she was perfect for him.

Emma felt like she was melting from the inside out; the heat and tension slowly driving her mad. She never wanted it to end, but if she didn't come soon, she might well and truly lose her mind. "Faster," she begged, her own voice a choked sob. "Fuck, I need to come!"

Killian didn't hesitate, obeying her without a word, hand and hook holding firmly to her hips. "Let go, Emma."

Her vision went hazy as she sobbed her release, her cries muffled by the blankets and mattress. Wave and wave struck her, coming from deep within her, until she was spent. A few more deep thrusts and Killian followed her, pulsing deep inside her as she milked him dry. Emma groaned when she felt him lean over her back; her knees were barely holding her up as it was. But it only lasted a moment; Killian managed to stand long enough to help her into the bed, both of them panting.

As soon as he was beside her, Emma curled into him on his good side, head on his chest. She could hear his heart thumping heavily in his chest and it made her smile.

Killian caught her and shook his head, still catching his breath. "Enjoy your punishment, lass?"

Her smile got bigger. "Definitely."

He stroked her temple with his thumb. "I love you, Emma."

"I love you too, Killian."

"Ready to go home, lass?"

Emma looked up from her reading—she was reading her favorite of Killian's collection, A Pirate's Life—and frowned. "Are we back already?"

"'Fraid so, love." They'd been gone for over a month; Ariel's retreat was too peaceful for them to tear themselves away. But as Liam got more active, Killian finally insisted they head back. She hated him a bit for being the practical one. "We should be docking within the hour."

"Okay." She started to get up; it took more effort than she expected. Perhaps she'd been sitting longer than she thought.

"Alright there, lass?"

"Yeah. Still getting used to being like...this," she said, gesturing to her stomach. She was roughly six months along now and she was really starting to feel it. Her joints hurt, her back hurt, her ankles were starting to swell. She was feeling large and unwieldy and off and she wasn't sure she liked it very much.

"The little one causing you any grief?"

Emma laughed hollowly. "No, it's not him. It's me. I just don't feel much like me anymore. But I'll be okay."

Killian gathered her in a sideways hug, brushing a kiss to her temple. "You're still my princess, Emma. Never doubt that."

She squeezed his waist, thankful for his words. "Let's go home."

They'd hardly entered the castle when her parents descended on them. Snow fussed over them, asking more questions than Emma could possibly answer, as she needed to breathe. David clapped Killian on the back, looking relieved that they made it back, safe and whole.

"Oh, we've got such a surprise for you!" Snow announced excitedly. "But first, let's have some lunch and you can tell us all about your trip!"

"Not everything," Killian muttered, looking sideways at Emma. She had to smother a laugh, knowing very well that a good portion of their trip would remain private.

They gathered in Snow's solar, a small feast brought in by the kitchens. Emma was surprised her mother allowed them to eat in peace for as long as they did, making small talk, getting caught up on the events in the castle while they were away.

"We've had a letter from Philip," her father said, spearing a small roasted potato on his fork. "Mulan's been sentenced."

"To what?" Emma asked.

"Life imprisonment," her mother said sadly.

"Oh." She wasn't sure what else she expected, under the circumstances she should be relieved. Instead, she was just sad.

"It's all so sad," Snow said, echoing Emma's thoughts.

"But would any of us have done any differently?" Killian asked.

David frowned. "I'm not sure I follow."

"Surely you noticed, mate."

"Noticed what?"

"That Mulan is in love with Aurora," Emma said, as if it were obvious. "That's why she did it."

"I did," Snow said. "I noticed. And I think Aurora knew. Not about Rumplestiltskin, but about Mulan."

"But Philip woke her with True Love's Kiss!"

"It was only after he woke her than she met Mulan. Mulan was there, David. She'd become traveling companions with Philip on his quest to find Aurora." Snow put down her spoon. "I don't doubt that Aurora loves Philip. But I think part of her is drawn to Mulan. She looked devastated when Mulan admitted the truth. It's just one of the many reasons we have to stop Rumplestiltskin. So he can't exploit people like that any longer."

Emma shared a look with Killian. As much as she didn't want to discuss it, this was probably the best moment to bring up what happened in White Haven. Killian slid his hand over hers, nodding encouragingly. "About Rumplestiltskin..."

"What happened?" David asked instantly. "I thought you said you were fine!"

"We are fine, Papa," Emma said patiently. "But we did have a bit more adventure than we bargained for." Slowly, she told the tale, not really getting into the more personal parts of Killian's home. That was his story to tell. But they imparted everything they remembered about Duncan and the price on their heads and Rumplestiltskin's determination to see his madness through.

"I can't believe they attacked you," David said, looking thunderous.

"Emma was bloody brilliant," Killian said proudly. "I don't think ole Duncan got up for a week. Not that we stayed to find out."

"Are you alright, Emma?" Snow asked, frowning.

"Yeah, I'm fine. It was just...an intense experience." What she really wanted was to speak to Tinkerbell about it, but that would have to wait.

"Well, you're home now," David said firmly. "That monster can't get to you here."

The conversation moved on to more pleasant topics, as no one wanted to delve deeply into the crazed mindset of the Dark One. Emma still had no idea how she was supposed to defeat him, but as Liam kicked at her stomach, she knew that eventually she would have to find a way.

"So what is this surprise, highness?" Killian asked as lunch was cleared away.

Snow beamed at them. "Hopefully, this won't seem too presumptuous on my part, but I thought since you were gone for so long, that you wouldn't mind if I gave you a bit of a head start.

"A head start on what?" Emma asked, cocking her head curiously.

"I may have had the dwarves start on Liam's nursery."

"Oh!"

"Would you like to see it? And if there's anything you don't like, we can still change it," Snow said hurriedly.

It sounded a bit more than a "head start" to Emma, but she didn't argue. The fact was they had put it off dangerously long, so she was grateful for her mother's initiative. Killian held her close as they trooped through the corridors, allowing her to lean on him without being obvious about it. She was getting used to this, used to always having him close, ready to do whatever she needed at a moment's notice. She was going to be so spoiled by the time Liam was born.

But she secretly cherished every single moment.

"I thought the rooms next to yours would be best," Snow said, cutting through her thoughts. "Gepetto is working on a smaller crib for right after the birth so you can keep Liam with you those first few weeks."

Another thing Emma would never have thought of. She was so grateful to have her mother here for this time in her life. She would have been completely lost.

"Here it is!" Snow and David pushed open the doors and stood aside.

Emma and Killian stepped inside, looking at each other in amazement. It was beautiful. The walls were painted a soft blue, textured to look like waves on the ocean. The balcony opened up—like theirs did—to the harbor, where the Jolly Roger was docked, her masts tall against the sky. There were shelves of toys, a wooden rocking chair, another bigger leather chair, blankets and clothes...it was overwhelming. Right in the center was Emma's crib, freshly painted, with a new mobile hanging from it. Instead of unicorns, Liam's mobile was ships, some with sails emblazoned with the royal crest and some with the skull and crossbones of a pirate. The blanket Granny knitted lay inside the crib, just waiting for its owner.

Emma felt Liam kick at her stomach again, as if sensing his mother's excitement. She grabbed Killian's hand and placed it on her stomach, grinning. Killian laughed. "I think he likes it," he said, thumb rubbing over the fabric of her dress. "What do you think, love?"

"I think you're right."

"There you are," Killian said, exasperated. "I've been looking all over for you."

Emma looked up from her perch in Liam's rocking chair. "Sorry. I just came up here to think."

"I could have come with you."

"It's okay. I could see you from here." Killian had been down at the Jolly directing his crew to put the beloved ship into winter quarters. No more adventures for a while. As much as she understood the necessity, the reality made her sad. She loved that ship and the times they'd spent on it. She could only imagine how much Killian missed it.

"How are you feeling?" He always asked that, wanting the unvarnished truth about every aspect of her condition.

"I'm okay. Really," she said, when he raised a skeptical brow. "My feet don't even hurt!"

"I trust you, love." He kissed the corner of her mouth before sitting on the floor in front of her. She spread her legs so he could lean back, giving her unfettered access to his dark locks. He hummed pleasantly as she obediently tangled her fingers in his hair, massaging his scalp, loving the feel of the soft thick strands through her fingers.

It was quiet, peaceful, something they wouldn't have for too much longer.

"Killian?"

"Yes, love?"

"Do you have any regrets?"

He thought for a moment. "In my life? Aye. I have many a regret." Then he turned and looked at her. "Since I met you? Not a single one."

"But you've turned your life completely upside down for me. You could still be on the Jolly right now if it weren't for me."

"Aye, I could. But I wouldn't be happy. Not truly happy." Killian got up on his knees and faced her so that they were eye level. "I didn't understand what happiness was until that day I met you. But I knew the moment I lost it, when we missed each other. And I tried to go back to who I was before and I couldn't. You were in my blood, Emma. I could never be happy without you."

"I know that," Emma said, cupping his cheek with his hand. "I do. I don't know why I keep asking."

"Because we're both terrified that it won't last," he said, kissing her palm. "That this evil will be something we can't defeat. But we can."

"How do you know?"

"I believe it," he said simply. "Right here." He pressed her hand to his heart. "This is the greatest thing I have ever felt in my life, Emma. And I'm not letting anyone take it from me without a fight."

"I won't either. I promise." She pulled him in for a kiss, his lips soft with just a hint of salt. She'd finally found exactly where she was supposed to be.