Emma loses her memories due to Mr. Hyde, and Killian and the others have to go get her back
Lost boy:
Killian rubbed his head with his hand as they walked along a sidewalk in small town called Battlecreek Michigan. Killian couldn't believe they were in this position again. Once again they were trying to find Emma after losing her because of magic. It had happened some time ago, after dealing with Mr. Hyde and the Evil Queen for months they had finally found a way to get rid of both of them. It had actually taken the combined magic of Emma, Zelena, and Regina using the Holy Grail and Merlin's wand together to eliminate the two villains. The three women had concentrated their magic together and focused it through the two powerful magical objects and used the combined energy to permanently destroy the two villains.
Not only had they managed to eliminate Hyde and the Evil Queen, but the combined magic of two magical objects in conjunction with the different powers of the three powerful witches had ended up bringing Robin Hood back to life. Everything had been absolutely perfect until a magical backlash from a curse Hyde and the Evil Queen had been trying to cast had rushed at all of them. Emma had used her magic to stop the dark magic and protect Storybrooke, but once again dark magic had transported Emma away from Storybrooke and they had been put in the position of having to go and find her once again.
Loosing Emma like that for what was technically a third time had been hard to Killian, the only reassurance he had in the whole endeavor was knowing that Emma hadn't been infected with dark magic for a second time. Obviously, Killian had wanted to find Emma immediately, but that was easier said than done, the magic could have taken Emma anywhere, and the burst of power that had been used to fight again Mr. Hyde and the Evil Queen had damaged the wand. It had taken, Dr. Jekyll, Zelena, Regina, and Malificent over a month before they had finally managed to repair the wand and activate it so that the magical object could lead them to Emma.
Finally, they work had been completed and Regina had once again been able to use the wand to find Emma. The one thing about the entire process that had shocked Killian about the entire situation was learning that Emma had not been sent to another realm, but rather transported to another place within this realm. Whenever Killian had encountered magical transportations in the past they had always involved a person being moved from one realm to another. When Killian had mentioned this Regina had explained that because the Evil Queen and Mr. Hyde had been defeated before the dark magic had hit Emma it had ended up simply sending Emma to a secondary location within the current realm instead of transporting her to a separate realm all together.
Receiving that news had been a great relief to all of them, but it didn't change the fact that Emma had been missing for over two months and none of them had the faintest clue of what had happened to her or what she was going through during that time. Still, they were hear, walking down a sidewalk in Battle Creek Michigan that was lined with small shops. It was a quiet summer's night and Killian was leading the way along with Regina and Henry, Snow, David, Zelena, and Robin follows behind. Of course there was one more addition to their party, Killian's younger half-brother Liam Jr. who preferred to go by L.J. was walking along next to Henry.
Killian felt himself grin as he looked over at the teenager. L.J. was physically the same age as Henry, but the two boys looked very different. Were Henry had a dusty brown hair L.J.'s hair was the same midnight black as Killian's, and like Killian and Liam L.J. also had blue eyes. L.J. was about a head taller than Henry (in fact he was within a few inches of Killian's own height which was amazing for a boy of only 15), and L.J. had a slightly wider build than Henry.
Despite the physical differences between the two, both Henry and L.J. got along spectacularly well with one another. Killian had been determined to find L.J. after he returned from the Underworld, and Emma had supported him the entire way. With Regina's help the two of them discovered that L.J. had actually ended up living with a woman named Diane Kent, who back in the enchanted forest was the little old woman who lived in the shoe. Diane was a kindly lady, but who had never mistreated L.J. or any of the other children in her care, but there was a reason they said 'she had so many children she didn't know what to do' her house was overcrowded and a raucous mess. When Killian and Emma had first went to meet L.J. he had been understandably angry at Killian, but eventually they worked through it and L.J. agreed to come live with them. After that Emma had become a surrogate mother to L.J. both of them knew what it was like to face the world alone and Emma had been able to connect with L.J. in a way Killian.
Yes, Killian had also been abandoned as a child, but he'd always had his older brother to look after him. No matter how hard things got or how rough the seas Killian had taken comfort in the fact that Liam was always by his side. L.J. had never had that kind of support, and that was a hard thing for anyone to live with. Therefore, it was no surprise that L.J. had connected so well to Emma when she had been through the exact same thing herself. Regina stopped and pointed to a nearby building Killian saw the wand glowing and knew before Regina said, "In here." That they had arrived.
Killian looked up and read the sign above their heads it read 'Mud puddle coffee shop' Killian couldn't help snorting, this was the exact sort of place he would usually find Emma even without her memories missing. Killian opened the door and they all filed in, but once they got into the building Killian stopped dead. In fact Killian stopped so suddenly that Robin ran right into his back, "Killian what?"
Killian cut him off, "Look."
Killian pointed to the right, the coffee shop was just like many other coffee shops in this realm, small with a lower lighting to give it a friendly atmosphere. A register, and tables surrounding the rest of the space, but what had caught Killian's eye was that this shop had a small stage for live entertainment. It wasn't anything fancy, just a raised black platform with a stool and a microphone, but what had made Killian freeze was that Emma was currently sitting on the stool holding a guitar in her hands.
Henry craned around Killian and his eyes widened, "Wow, the curse taught Mom how to play guitar?"
David said, "Apparently so."
Snow said, "I think we should all sit down and wait until after Emma is done before talking to her, we don't want to make too much of a scene."
Killian didn't like the idea of waiting, but he knew snow was right, "I suppose we should."
They all sat together at two adjoining tables while Snow stood, "I'll get drinks for everyone."
David added, "I'll help."
As the two of them walked off Killian studied Emma, she looked was wearing something completely different than her usual style. Instead of jeans Emma wore soft looking black pants with wide ankles and a long sleeved plan black shirt. Emma also wore a white beanie on her head that looked much like the one she'd been wearing when she vanished. Emma must have tucked her hair into the hat because Killian couldn't see her blonde locks. Emma had a copper bracelet and turquoise overly large ring, and a matching necklace that was also large. Killian didn't know much of anything about this realm, but as far as he was aware this type of style was called Bohemian, Killian didn't know what the hell Bohemian meant, but he had seen a few pictures in magazines Snow and Emma had shown him over the years.
As Snow and David came back with drinks Emma raised her head, "good evening, everyone. Thanks for coming tonight, I'm going to start tonight with one of my favorite songs. It means something very special to me."
Emma sat up straight and began to sing
There was a time when I was Alone
No where to go and no place to call home
My only friend was the man in the moon
And even sometimes he would go away too
Everyone at the table gaped in shock, especially Killian, this was the last song he had expected to hear. Killian had seen that ridiculous version of himself with Emma and Henry, and he had heard this song before. Killian had never had much love for it, and normally he would turn it off when it played, but somehow hearing it from Emma right now Killian didn't feel irritated or frustrated. Instead he started to see the song in a different way. Killian thought about Emma and her past, how she'd grown up alone with no stable home and no friends or close companions except for August, Lily, and Neal (all of whom had hurt Emma in some way) Killian realized that this song wasn't so much about Peter Pan and Neverland, as it was Emma singing her own story, and she was doing so spectacularly.
Snow whispered, "I had no idea she could sing like that."
Killian shook his head, "neither did I, I've heard her sing along to that music box of hers a time or two, but never like this."
Emma went on:
Then one night, as I closed my eyes
I saw a shadow flying high
He came to me with the sweetest smile
Told me he wanted to talk for awhile
He said... Peter Pan that's what they call me
I promise that you'll never be lonely
And ever since that day...
Killian closed his eyes, he pictured Henry finding Emma in Boston and brining her to Storybrooke. Killian had the story of how Emma and Henry had reunited numerous times, both from Emma and Henry themselves and David and Snow as well. As Emma sang the lines 'he came to me with the sweetest smile told me he wanted to talk for a while' Killian could picture Henry knocking Emma's door with that huge grin of his, sitting down with her and telling her everything about where he was from, and Emma not believing a word of it.
I am a lost boy from Neverland
Usually hanging out with Peter Pan
And when we're bored we play in the Woods
Always on the run from Captain Hook
Killian covered a snort at that line, Emma had indeed been on the run from him for quite some time first when he was working with Cora, and then later when she didn't want to admit her feelings for him. Still, Killian had never given up and here they were. Emma may not have her memories right now, but they were together, and they were happy. Killian remembered their fight on Lake Nostos, and Emma coming to see him in the hospital afterwards.
Run run lost boy, they say to me
Away from all of reality
Neverland is home to lost boys like me
And lost boys like me are free
Killian took a long drink as he nodded along with the tune, Emma was indeed lost, and she had indeed spent her entire life running, Running from one bad situation to another as a child, and then later running from the truth about Storybrooke, running from Neal, running to Neal, searching for Henry in Neverland, and so much more.
He sprinkled me in pixie dust and told me to believe
Believe in him and believe in me
Together we will fly away in a cloud of green
To your beautiful destiny
These lines were special because they didn't just apply to Henry bringing Emma to Storybrooke and asking her to believe in the truth about the curse and her role as the savior, but also when Killian himself had gone to find Emma in New York. Killian remembered the failed kiss, and then hunting Emma down, trying to convince her of the truth and talk her into drinking the potion that would restore her memories.
As we soared above the town that never loved me
I realized I finally had a family
Soon enough we reached Neverland
Peacefully my feet hit the sand and ever since that day...
Killian imagined what it must have been like for Emma when she first arrived in Storybrooke, finding her place, trying to fit in and fighting to leave at the same time. Killian also remembered how it had been when she returned the second time. Reconnecting with her parents and trying to find Zelena. Then there had been that moment in the crocodiles' vault when Emma had finally realized and admitted that she realized her place was back in Storybrooke with her parents and Henry and not in New York.
I am a lost boy from Neverland
Usually hanging out with Peter Pan
And when we're bored we play in the Woods
Always on the run from Captain Hook
Again Emma had pushed him away because she felt guilty about bringing 'Marian' back with them from the past. Killian also remembered Emma running from to or away from one villain or another, Regina, Peter Pan, Zelena, Ingrid. Killian saw himself talking to Emma, telling her she needed to find time between one crisis and another to actually live her life or she would end up missing it. Emma nearly freezing to death because of that awful accident with Elsa
Run run lost boy, they say to me
Away from all of reality
Neverland is home to lost boys like me
And lost boys like me are free
Emma finally asking Killian out on a date, the two of them actually together as couple. Even though Killian had made that awful mistake with the crocodile, it had still been one of the happiest times of his life. One of the reasons Killian those moments had meant so much to Killian because he had seen Emma running towards something instead of from it. At that time Killian had gotten to watch Emma move towards her family and start letting them in.
Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Wendy darlin
Even Captain Hook you are my perfect story book
Neverland I love you so, you are now my home sweet home
Forever a lost boy at last
Emma finding her place in Storybrooke, fitting in with her family and accepting that all of them, even Regina who had been the proverbial 'Captain Hook' at the beginning of it all were now a part of her family and that she really had a family of her own for the first time in her lonely life.
Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Wendy darlin
Even Captain Hook you are my perfect story book
Neverland I love you so, you are now my home sweet home
Forever a lost boy at last... And for always I will say
Their house in Storybrooke, Emma finally ready to take the step for the two of them to move in together and began building a future side-by-side. Facing the darkness, going to the Underworld and being granted the miracle being returned to one another at the end of it all.
I am a lost boy from Neverland
Usually hanging out with Peter Pan
And when we're bored we play in the Woods
Always on the run from Captain Hook
Emma's worry over having to find Henry and stop him from accidentally trying to end magic and accidentally hurt a lot of people. Emma and Regina traveling to New York desperately trying to stop Henry and Violet from making a grievous mistake whilst at the same time Killian, David, Snow, and Zelena ended up accidentally traveling to the land of unfinished stories.
Run run lost boy, they say to me
Away from all of reality
Neverland is home to lost boys like me
And lost boys like me are free
Henry restoring magic, and bringing them all back through the portal that opened in the fountain. Then all of them finally running back home to Storybook together.
Neverland is home to lost boys like me
And lost boys like me are free
Having Henry and L.J. come to live with them, regular dinners with Emma's parents, and developing their individual friendships with the people of Storybrooke. As Emma finished her last line Killian nodded to himself once more. Yes, this was definitely more than just a song.
As the last lines faded the people in the shop clapped and Emma moved on, she sang 'Wrecking Ball' by Miley Syrus, then 'Home' by Phillip Philips, 'Blowing in the Wind' by Bob Dylan, 'Keep Holding On' by Avril Levine, 'May Angels Lead you In' by Jimmy Eat World and 'Dark side' by Demi Levotto. Killian knew that these songs weren't just songs. As with the first each told apart of Emma's story, who she was, where s he came from, and what she'd been through. Wrecking ball was Killian and the others fighting to get Emma to trust them and let them into her life. Home reminded Killian more of his situation with Emma trying to convince her that he wouldn't hurt her as others had, that she could trust him and they could find a home together. Blowing in the wind about Emma and Henry finding their place, 'Keep holding on' about all of them banding together and facing one eminent threat after another. 'May Angels Lead you in' for those who had been lost and those who had struggled against insurmountable odds, and of course 'Dark Side' about Emma, Killian, and Regina all facing the worst parts of themselves overcoming their own inner darkness to find their respective happy endings.
Killian and the others sat memorized as they listened to Emma sing. They all knew that this skill wasn't just something that could be attributed to cursed memories. Such memories might teach a person how to play, but they couldn't teach them how to sing like that, and curse memories certainly wouldn't give anyone such a natural talent. This was something a person I inherently had or did not have, and it was obvious that Emma had this.
Eventually Emma finished out the set and the crowd applauded one last time. Emma leaned forward, "Thanks for coming tonight, I hope you all enjoyed the evening. Make sure to come back next week." The crowd began to disperse and as Emma started to pack her guitar away Killian jerked his head towards the stage and they all walked over to her.
Before they could reach Emma someone else did, during Emma's performance the barista behind the cash register had taken orders and cleaned up the area as needed. As soon as Emma had stopped he had walked up to her. The barista was about ordinary height, with short brown hair and deep set brown eyes. As he walked up to Emma he handed her a drink.
Killian felt a rush of jealousy as Emma grinned and took the drink from him, "Thank Avery." She said.
Avery nodded, "No problem Sue. It's the least you deserve after bringing in all the extra business."
Emma gave a light snort, "Please, I don't bring in that much." Despite her denial Killian could see an embarrassed blush rise on Emma's cheeks. Killian had to fight to keep from rushing forward and slamming the bloody wanker into the wall.
Avery shrugged one shoulder, "You know that isn't true. Sales have been up ever since you started playing, and if you weren't any good we wouldn't get as many repeat customers. You should maybe think of start selling your own albums."
Emma rolled her eyes, "And where would I get the money to make one Avery? You know I don't make enough for something like that."
Avery said, "It wouldn't be that hard Sue, there's plenty of places you can cut a demo cheap. Hell, you could just rent a camera form the public library or something like that, shoot a video yourself and upload it to Youtube like everybody else does. Or you could record yourself somewhere private and burn it on to your own c.d.'s you don't have to spend a fortune."
Emma shrugged in agreement as she took a long drink, "True, and it would certainly help with the bills if I could sell some. I'll think about o.k."
Avery nodded happily, "Great."
Emma took another drink and asked, "So how's Nicholas doing?"
Avery snorted, "He is going crazy, I swear these wedding plans are just driving me nuts. I mean I love Nick, you know I do, but I swear if he makes me look at one more center piece sample and running away and joining the circus."
Emma giggled as Killian felt himself relax, Killian looked over and spotted Robin giving him an amused smirk. Killian muttered, "oh shut up."
Emma said, "Well, why don't you go home and tell him you'll make him a deal, you get two or three days of your choosing sometime in the next week or so when there will be no wedding talk of any kind. Or you could just write up a short list of things that you definitely do and definitely do not want and have him do the same and use that to scale things back a little."
A large grin split Avery's face, "Those are great ideas." He gave her a quick peck on the cheek and said, "Thanks Sue." And wandered off behind the counter once more.
Killian and the others stepped forward and said, "wonderful performance."
Emma smiled at him, but it wasn't the same smile he was used to. Typically, when Emma saw him her entire face would like up, but the smile she graced Killian with now was simply one of gratitude. Killian hadn't realized how different Emma's other smile was until this very moment. Emma said, "Thanks."
Struggling to find a way to convince Emma to speak to them privately Killian asked, "So where did you get the inspiration to play those particular tunes?"
Emma took another drink and began to pack her guitar away as she said, "It just felt right."
Killian could see a far off look in her eyes and hoped that perhaps somewhere deep inside she was able to remember who she really was. Killian continued, "Well, it was absolutely marvelous, it seemed like you weren't just putting on a performance as telling a particular story."
Emma closed her guitar case and flushed slightly, "Well they say the best performers are also storytellers."
Killian nodded, "I believe that is absolutely true. Ah, listen, we didn't just come here to compliment your skills as a musician we were hoping you could help us with something."
Killian instantly saw Emma slam her walls up in full force. Emma took a step back and asked in a suspiciously cautious voice, "Help with what?"
Killian could understand her sudden need to pull away, anyone being confronted by a stranger like this would be apprehensive. Killian knew he had to do something to put Emma at ease, and as he struggled to find a plausible explanation it was actually Henry who stepped forward, "Me." Henry said, causing Emma to raise an eyebrow at him, "You see, I'm a writer."
Henry reached into his backpack and pulled out a small notebook, this was one Henry kept to write his own stories that were separate from the ones for the storybook, Henry held it up and said, "I'm actually working on an assignment for my journalism class. The assignment says we're supposed to interview a local individual. The only catch, the person you interview can't be someone obvious."
Henry paused a moment before explaining, "So I can't for example interview the mayor, or a well-known community activist, or even the head of church. I have to pick someone who wouldn't be typically featured in a newspaper interview unless they did something really amazing. I know this is weird, but would you be willing?"
Killian truly hoped that Emma losing her memories meant she had also lost her superpower, if not she would see through Henry's story in a minute. Emma crinkled her brow curiously at him, "You want to interview me?" she said disbelievingly.
Henry nodded, "Yeah, we could even stay here for it." Henry gestured to the coffee shop, "This place doesn't close for another two hours." Killian and Henry could both see Emma was still hesitating so Henry added, "In fact I'll even trade you give and take."
Emma looked truly lost, "Give and take?"
Henry grinned broadly, "Yeah, you tell me about yourself and I'll tell you about myself."
Emma raised an eyebrow at him, "Didn't your mother teach you to never talk to strangers?"
Killian snorted as Henry answered, "Yeah, she did, but I'm a disobedient child."
Emma looked at the rest of them, "And what about your little entourage?"
Henry grinned, "this is my family. My mom Regina, her boyfriend Robin, my aunt Zelena."
Henry pointed to each of them in turn, but he paused when he got to Snow and David, "Ah, my aunt Mary, and uncle David, my…."Henry paused again when he came to Killian and L.J., "My Cousin L.J., and my other uncle Killian."
Killian had to fight a snort at that one, he knew anyone seeing him and L.J. together would notice a resemblance and assume they were in fact father and son and not brothers, but it was still a humorous idea. Emma studied them all carefully, "So why are all of you here? I mean I get one person coming with the kid" Henry practically cheered at the sound of Emma's nickname for him as she went on, "Just to do an interview for a class?"
Regina said, "No, we all came to have coffee and listen. When Henry heard you singing he thought you'd be a good interview subject."
Emma looked them all over and her eyes rested on Killian, "You know, you and your son look alike, but you don't look much like him."
Emma pointed to Henry, Killian said, "that's because I'm only related to Henry through marriage, I was very closely involved with a member of his family who has now passed away."
Emma's face fell, "Oh, I'm sorry." She turned to L.J., "To both of you."
L.J. and Killian looked confused before realization dawned on their faces. Killian explained, "Oh, yes, well thank you. Milah was very special."
Emma nodded, "I'm sure she was." Emma cleared her throat and turned back to Henry looking somewhat awkward, "So, you wanted to do an interview?"
Henry shook himself, "Yes, absolutely." Henry was practically vibrating with excitement as he and Emma went to sit down. Killian had to fight ever urge in him to keep from sitting down with them, but he knew it would look odd if they all sat around Emma and Henry like some kind of war council. Killian could see the Snow and David were also hard pressed not to go over as well, but they all knew it wouldn't do any good. They had discovered that because Henry was the one who had brought Emma to Storybrooke in the first place he was the only one who could bring her memories back. Everything was now in the hands of the truest believer. Killian knew Henry could do it, and he trusted Henry implicitly, but he still hated just sitting there and waiting.
Regina could see Killian warring with himself and said, "If you want to take a seat over there." She pointed to a table close enough to keep an eye on the two, but far enough away to give them space and said, "I think I can help." Regina reached into her pocked and pulled out a small mirror. A moment later Henry's voice came through the enchanted glass, "I figure the best way to start this is with the basics. My name's Henry Daniel Mills and I'm 14."
Killian, Snow, David, and L.J. all starred at Regina in wonder, David looked like he could have actually kissed Regina for thinking of that. Killian shook his head and chuckled, "Good form your majesty, good form."
They ordered some more drinks and all sat down at the table looking like they were just having a normal conversation while sneaking occasional glances over to Emma and Henry to make sure things were going well. As they settled themselves Emma's voice came from the mirror once again, "Everyone calls me Sue, but my name is actually Sacramento."
Killian chocked on his drink as they heard Henry say, "That's unusual."
Emma snorted, "look Kid, you can say it. My first name is weird, I know it is. My parents decided to name me after the place where I was born. They both grew up in Greenland of all places and they really didn't like it there because of the ice and snow, when they got older they moved here to the states and they settled down in Sacramento. They fell in love with the city, the warmth and just everything about it, they also went crazy about visiting the redwood forests. My parents were too young to be hippies, but they definitely had the whole tree hugging thing down pat. Anyways, when I was born they decided to name me after the place they made their home, so Sacramento Whittaker."
Henry said, "Well My mom's named Regina Mills and my aunts name is Zelena, and we all come from a town called Storybrooke Maine, and there's a lady who lives there named Tinkerbell."
Emma's voice called in shock, "Like Peter Pan?"
Killian glanced over and caught Henry nodding, "Exactly, we also have someone in the town named Belle, couple named Phillip and Aurora, and Killian is the captain of the Jolly Roger."
Emma's snorted and her voice carried a note of incredulity, "So you live in a town called Storybrooke, and there's a guy with a hook on his left arm that's Captain of the Jolly Roger?"
Henry said, "Yeah, here look."
All of them snuck glances over at Henry as he pulled some pictures out of his bag, they couldn't see them from the angle of their table, but Killian knew that there were several pictures of himself, Henry, and L.J. out sailing together. Even from a distance Killian could see Emma's eyes widen, "Whoa."
Henry chuckled, "Yeah, pretty awesome huh? So if your family loved California so much why did you come here?"
Emma sighed, "My parents died when I was a kid and I ended up moving to Arizona where my aunt Ingrid lived. She and I did not get along, and being with her was like being in prison. As soon as I was old enough I went back to Sacramento, but it just didn't feel right being there without my parents. I had a friend who lived in Michigan and I came here. It was nice because it was a totally new place. Somewhere I could really start over fresh and make a life for myself without a bunch of ghosts hanging over my head."
Henry said, "Yeah, I get how that can be. My mom Regina, she's my adopted mom and when I was 11 I went to find my birth-mom, and I actually did. My birth mom and I lived in New York for a year, it was nice, and after we came back to Storybrooke my other mom kept saying she wanted to go back to New York. She thought life would be easier there, but then she realized Storybrooke is our home it's where both of us belong."
Emma said, "Now you're just making things up."
Henry said, "No, I know it sounds crazy, but it's all true. I found my birth mom, and we found a home, and she and my adopted mom get along really well. My family is this crazy mess, and I love it, and Storybrooke is a small town full of characters who are all great people."
Emma asked, "So where's your birth mom? Why didn't she come with?"
Henry paused, "She didn't come with us tonight because she just went through something hard and she's trying to find herself again. My mom's doing great, but she still needs a little space from time to time."
Killian and others grinned knowingly at each other, so far every single thing Henry had told Emma was completely and totally true (just not in the way she thought it was).
Emma said, "I can understand that."
Henry added, "Yeah, she'll be fine, I know she will. She's always been strong.
Emma said, "Well, I'm glad you found a happy ending, I guess it's just not possible for everybody to get one." Killian could hear the sorrow and longing in Emma's voice and he desperately wanted to go over to her and tell her that she had a happy ending of her own, she just had to remember it. Killian could see David reach over and squeeze Snow's hand as she struggled not to comfort her own daughter.
Henry said, "I don't think that's true, I think everyone can have a happy ending, you just have to believe it's possible and fight for it."
Emma said longingly, "Faith trust and pixie dust?"
Henry said, "Exactly, now you're getting it."
Emma asked, "So if this little town in Maine of yours is so great why are you here?"
Henry paused, "We're on vacation, it's something we've never really had a chance to do before and we all want to experience more of the world. We came here looking for an adventure."
Emma snorted, "In Battle Creek Michigan?"
Henry said, "Hey, we have adventures in Storybrooke all the time, and if you were to visit you'd probably say it's the last place you'd expect to find any adventure of any kind. Never underestimate a small town. So, how long have you been playing the guitar?"
Emma sighed, "My entire life, my mom loved music." Emma chuckled, "she actually used to sing to birds, and she bought me my first guitar when I was just a kid." Killian could hear Emma smile as she said, "My parents took me to this big outdoor music festival and I just fell in love with the folk music I heard there. I wanted to learn to play so bad after that, my mom went out and bought me a guitar and my dad arranged for me to have lessons. It was great, music was something I always connected with my parents and it was always something for me to hold onto no matter what was going on."
Henry said, "You know Mary Margret loves birds to, she's a teacher and she always has birds in class. It's really great."
Emma said, "you know I'm surprised."
Henry asked, "That Mary Margret and your mother have that in common?"
Emma said, "No, I'm surprised you didn't make any Snow White jokes." This time Snow gave a giggle as Emma went on, "That's usually what I get when I tell people that story."
Henry said, "I'm not most people. So what were your parents' names?"
Emma said, "Leo and Eva Whittaker, they were farmers. We actually started doing the organic farming thing before most everyone else did."
Henry said, "They sound like they were pretty cool."
Emma said, "Yeah, my parents were great people. Like I said I loved music growing up, and I've had a couple of jobs, but nothing ever really fit me. When I moved to Michigan I decided the best way to start over was to do what I loved. Turns out that sounds a little easier than it is to accomplish. Playing here is something I really like, but it doesn't pay as much as I need to I'm working on getting a job teaching music, so far no luck, but I've only just started."
Henry said, "I think you'll find exactly what you're looking for."
Emma said, "Oh, Really?" Killian didn't need to look over to see that she had raised her eyebrow at Henry.
Henry said, "Absolutely, like I already said, everybody can have a happy ending. I can even prove it to you."
Emma asked, "Really, how?"
The others all froze as they turned to look over and see Henry pull his story book out of his backpack, "Here."
Emma looked at the book, "fairy tales?" she asked disbelievingly
Henry said, "they aren't just stories, they're all real." Henry turned a few pages and stopped, "Look, this is Killian, he lost the woman he loved once, he spent forever trying to get revenge on her killer. Killian didn't think he'd ever love anyone else again and then he met my mom and they're really happy with me, Mary Margaret, David, and L.J. Then there's Mary Margaret and David, they've been forced apart over and over again. They've nearly lost each other more times than I can count, but now they're married, they have two kids, and they love each other so much they share a heart with each other."
Henry flipped through the pages and showed her, "See, this is my mom and Killian." Killian knew Henry was showing Emma one of the images of the two of them dancing at Midas' ball, Henry flipped the book again, "And this is Mary Margaret and David. Every person in this book is real, and every story in it is true, just seen from a different perspective."
Emma sounded truly disbelieving when she said, "Look Kid, I think you've got some good ideas, but I don't know about this."
Henry pushed, "You know back in Stroybrooke there's a guy named Jefferson, he had a hard life and he made some mistakes in his past. Jefferson's worked really hard to overcome that and he's got a great life with his daughter now, but that's not my point. Before Jefferson found his way again he said something to my birth mom, he told her that everyone, everywhere wants magic to be real in some way, everybody wants a magical solution to their problems and situations, but nobody really believes in magic or that any of that is actually possible. When something wonderful comes someone's way usually the first thing they do is mistrust it. You've had a hard life, and that's not fair, but you can find your happy ending, you can get exactly what you want, and exactly what you deserve. You just have to believe it's possible."
Killian and the others were all sitting at the table completely frozen, Killian's stomach felt like he was standing on the deck of the Jolly Roger during a storm. L.J. sat there nervously biting his lip, Killian reached over and rested his hand on L.J.'s shoulder as he looked over to see Snow and David clutching each other desperately.
Emma carefully looked back and forth between Henry and the story book, "You really believe that."
Henry said, "I know it, the question is do you think you can believe it?"
Emma shook her head slightly, Killian could see the internal debate going on in Emma's mind, on the one hand some strange kid was telling her to believe fairy tales were real and that people got happy endings and true loves, and all of it must have sounded mad to her. On the other hand a part of Emma must sensed that something was wrong, that the things she remembered weren't what really happened in her life, and that the key to finding the truth was starring her straight in the face. Killian swore he felt his hear stop a second time as Emma starred Henry down, obviously searching for something.
After a moment Emma reached out for the book, "You know, maybe I could. Maybe you are right, if I want to find my happy ending, I have to believe it's out there somewhere." Emma held the book in both hands and looked down at the cover, "I believe."
Killian closed his eyes in relief, he didn't think he'd heard sweeter words, a moment later there was a flash of magic and Emma gasped. Everyone in the coffee shop froze and turned to them as Emma stuttered, "Henry?"
Henry smiled, "Hi Mom."
Emma rushed forward and pulled him into a hug, "Henry!"
Killian and the others all pushed themselves out of their chairs and ran right over to Emma and Henry. Emma pulled back and turned, "Killian!" she shouted.
Killian gave her a grin, "Did you miss me?"
Emma didn't stop for a moment before pulling Killian into a kiss that most assuredly not appropriate for a public space (especially with Emma's son and parents present), but neither of them cared. Emma turned to the other young man in their party, "L.J." Emma pulled him into an equally fierce hug and then her eyes fell on Robin and her mouth dropped in shock, "How?" she breathed out.
Regina said, "the magic that was used brought Robin back when Hyde and my less than better half were destroyed."
Emma said, "Oh, my God. Robin, it's so good to see you."
Emma gave Robin a hug, "It's wonderful to be seen."
Emma then turned to her parents, "Mom, Dad!"
David and Snow both pulled Emma into their arms, by this time everyone in the place was starring at them, and Avery came striding over, "Sue, what's going on? Who are these people?"
Emma gave a dazzling smile that melted Killian's heart, "Avery this is my family."
Emma said, "This is my boyfriend Killian, and my two boys Henry and L.J." Emma turned to her parents and paused, "This is my brother David and sister Mary, and this is Henry's adopted mother Regina and her boyfriend Robin. Both of them are also very good friends of mine. Finally, we have Zelena, Regina's sister."
Avery blinked, then blinked again, "Family? Boyfriend? Sue what are you talking about?"
Emma bit her lip, "When I told you about my past I was wrong, I thought all of that was true, but it wasn't. I…"Emma paused then said, "I had a terrible accident back in Storybrooke where I was living, and what happened was so hard on me I ended up suffering traumatic amnesia. When I sat down and started talking to Henry it all came back. I remember everything now. I remember the truth. I have a family, I have a home."
Avery looked around at them, "What was that light thing?"
Emma stuttered, "Ah, Henry was showing me something on his tablet, it was a video of us together before my accident. When he was running it he accidentally triggered this strobe light feature he has."
Avery raised an eyebrow, "Strobe light?"
Henry said, "Yeah, you see L.J. is really into film, and music videos, and photography so he downloaded a strobe light app onto his tablet to let him take really cool pictures and I liked it so much I put it on my tablet." Henry reached into his backpack to pull his actual tablet out, "Here want to see?"
Avery shook his head, "No thanks, but I would like to see that video you were showing Sue."
Emma said, "Actually my name is Emma."
Avery jerked his head up, "What?"
Emma nodded, "Yeah, Emma Swan."
Killian watched Henry fiddled with his portable magic box and a moment later he pulled something up on it, "here." Henry said
Avery took the magic box and hit a few buttons, a moment later the shop was filled with sound. Killian couldn't help grinning as he watched the video of himself, Emma, Henry, and L.J. sailing the Jolly Roger through Storybrook harbor. Avery's eyes widened at the sight, as the video ended Henry pushed another button and said, "Here's a bunch of pictures to."
Avery used his finger to do something that Killian thought was called 'scrolling' he looked over the man's shoulder and saw images of himself, Emma, Henry, L.J., Snow, David, Regina, and just about everyone else in Storybrooke passing by. There were pictures from when Henry and Emma had first met that Henry had put onto his magic box, there were also a few images of Neal (both the baby and Henry's father). Avery gaped, "Whoa, this is real?"
Emma nodded, "Absolutely."
Avery shook his head then came forward and gave Emma a hug, "Honey I'm so happy for you. I know how hard it's been for you starting over here. I'm so glad you found your family and your home."
Emma said, "Thanks, but you know what this means?"
Avery's face fell, "You're going to be leaving?"
Emma said, "Yes, but I can still come and visit and we can keep on Skype and stuff."
Avery shook his head, "It won't be the same as having you living here. Where is Storybrooke anyways?"
Emma turned slightly red as she answered, "Maine."
Avery's eyes widened, "Maine, wow that's wow."
Emma said, "I know, but like I said we can still keep in touch."
Avery said, "just promise me you won't miss the wedding."
Emma smiled beautifully, "I wouldn't dream of it."
Avery sighed, "I guess I can live with that then. I have to say, you look a lot different in these pictures."
Snow said, "Yes, Emma's style was quite different."
Avery shook his head again, "I didn't just mean her clothes, I meant her hair."
Snow asked, "Her hair?" curiously.
Emma went slightly red again and reached up to pull her beanie off, "Yeah, see I needed some extra cash, and there was only one way I could really get it at the time." Emma pulled off her hat and they all gasped, her long mane of blond curls had been cut to just below her ears, "I sold my hair."
Regina asked, "People still pay for hair?"
Emma nodded, "Definitely, a lot of people will pay huge amounts of money for extensions and there are plenty of stylists who offer good money for the hair they can use to make those types of extensions. I actually made $1000 selling mine."
Regina whistled, "that's a lot."
Emma said, "Now you know why I did it."
Snow stepped forward looking a little sad, "Oh Emma." She ran a hand through Emma's now short hair.
Emma gave her mother a weak smile, "I know."
Snow ran her hand through the short locks a few more times, "I like it."
Emma said, "Thanks." Then turned to Killian, "Well?"
Killian stepped forward, "You've never looked lovelier Swan."
Killian stepped forward and bent down so their foreheads touched, "Gods, I've missed you."
Emma pulled him into a hug, "I've missed you to. I just didn't realize how much. You know the place I'm staying in is full of nautical knick knacks and other little trinkets that connect for all of you. I may not have remembered anything consciously, but some part of me knew."
David said, "That's good to hear."
Avery asked, "So when are you leaving?"
Emma turned back to him, "As soon as I can. It's been three months, and I'm more than ready to go back home."
Avery nodded in understanding as he pulled her into another hug, "don't you dare be a stranger."
Emma snorted, "I wouldn't dream of it."
Avery said, "good."
And they stepped apart, Emma grabbed Killian's hand, "Let's get going."
L.J. bent down and picked up the guitar case, "Aren't you forgetting something?"
Killian said, "Yes love, I have to say I was extraordinarily surprised by your skill. I had no idea you could play or sing like that."
Emma's face turned a brilliant red, "Neither did I."
Killian said, "Well it's something I certainly hope you continue with. I must say you sound remarkable."
Emma took the guitar case from L.J., "You know, I never really looked into music before, but I think it is something I'll keep up."
David said, "Good to hear, now I think we should be going."
Emma said, "Yes, I can stay with you guys for the night and we can clear my stuff out tomorrow."
Regina asked, "Where have you been staying?"
Emma shrugged, "The local YWCA. It's all I could afford"
Snow said, "Well, we have a nice place we've got reservations at and there's more than enough room for you."
Emma said, "it'll be nice to spread out a little, he YWCA is actually pretty nice, but it's small and I've been getting a little stir crazy."
Emma's stomach suddenly gave a very loud and obvious growl, the other chuckled, "And obviously you're hungry as well. How about we find a place to get some vittles?"
Avery looked at Killian, "Vittles?"
Emma said, "Killian was in small town in the English countryside, you know one of those little places you see in movies with people herding sheep and having only one road. People there are more traditional in the way they live and the way they speak."
Avery said, "Well, where ever he's from I have to say he's quite something. You've done well for yourself girl."
Emma snorted, "Hey, he's mine, he's straight, and you are engaged."
Avery shrugged, "Doesn't mean I can't appreciate a good fellow."
Killian said, "I appreciate the compliment, I do know I'm a devilishly handsome fellow."
Emma leaned on him, "And so humble to."
Killian raised an eyebrow, "Would you have me any other way love?"
Emma said, "Never. Now let's go eat."
Snow asked, "Where do you want to go?"
Emma bit her lip and thought for a moment, "Well, if you guys are up for it there's a great Mexican place up the block they have fresh made tortillas and monster burritos."
Henry said, "Awesome."
L.J. added, "I'm in."
The others all agreed and twenty minutes later they were sitting at a table together talking and sharing food together, restaurant they were at was called Mama Camille's they had family style serving and they were all splitting different dishes between themselves as they talked and caught up. Regina gave a detailed account of Robin's return whilst Henry and L.J. told Emma about what they had been doing while she was away, Emma filled them in on her life, but there wasn't much to it beyond what they had already heard. Emma had lived here for the last two months, believing she'd come to start a new life for herself.
Eventually they all made their way back to the hotel they were staying, it was the local Holiday Inn, and a nice place. They had reserved four rooms one for Regina, Robin, and Henry, one for Zelena, one for Snow and David, and one for Killian and L.J., as they arrived at the front desk Killian said, "So Swan which room do you want to stay in, would you like to share with L.J. and myself, or do you want to spend the night with your parents?"
Emma turned to her parents, Killian could see a silent conversation going on between them. Understanding crossed Snow's face as Emma said, "I would really like to stay with you Killian."
L.J. said, "You know Emma if you like I can stay with Snow and David for the night if you want."
Killian gave Emma knowing look that caused David to groan as Emma said, "I would really appreciate that L.J."
David shook his head, "I don't want to know, I don't want to know, I don't want to know."
Henry nodded, "With you on that one Gramps."
They all went up to bed (all though it was a while before Emma and Killian actually slept) and then next morning they headed out to the YWCA where Emma had been staying. When they arrived at the room Killian could see why Emma had been feeling cramped. The space was clean, but it was small, about the size of a one man bunk room on a ship. There was a small twin bed under a nice window with a little dresser right against the wall.
As Killian looked around he saw many of the objects Emma had spoke of, there were a few small bird sculptures sitting on the window sill, an anchor sculpture on dresser, a decorative pen on the nightstand, a movie camera, a glass apple, and a even a painting of a knight facing a dragon. Emma grabbed a small dark blue suitcase and began to pack the few belongings she had, aside from the items Killian had already noticed, it was mostly clothing. Less than an hour later Emma had said good-bye to Avery and Nick and they were boarding a plane back to Storybrooke. Killian couldn't help feeling a bit unnerved as the contraption prepared to take flight. Killian had seen these flying devices from a distance, but never actually traveled in one. Killian noticed Robin was also looking uneasy. Emma reached over and grabbed Killian's hand, "It'll be alright, more people crash in cars then in planes."
As the plane took off Killian couldn't help feeling thrown by the experience of lifting into the air in such a matter. Eventually, Killian relaxed and managed to enjoy the flight, and it wasn't long before they landed in Portland Maine. Once they arrived back in Storybrooke Killian felt himself relax they were all home together, Emma was back, and the town was quite (for now).
It didn't take long for Emma to settle back into life in Storybrooke with the rest of them, the biggest difference being that Emma continued to play and perform her music. It was a bit surprising for Killian (and everyone else in town) to see Emma play in the town square or on their front porch, but somehow it seemed to work. Emma kept her promise to stay in touch with Avery and Nick, and eight months later Killian found himself returning to Michigan to attend their wedding. As he watched the two men dance Killian decided that maybe it was time for things to move forward with himself and Emma as well and when he got back to Storybrooke he was going to have a little sit down with Emma's parents as well as Henry and L.J. Yes, Killian decided it was definitely time for them to start building that future they had talked of in Camelot.
A/N that's all for now, comments are welcome
Lost Boy by Ruth B
. (Emma's outfit, just add a hat)