Thank you all for sticking it out for what turned into an absolute monster of a one-shot. I hope you guys enjoyed reading it as much as I did writing it, and I hope y'all like the conclusion :)
Note: I wrote all of this on my phone in notes, and I didn't realize how long it was. Oops. I hope you guys enjoy it anyway :)
"Mom, how long is she going to be?" Anna Elizabeth asked exasperatedly from Belle and August's couch.
"You know how long the line is at the elementary school. It might be a little bit, but she'll get here in plenty of time to do your hair and makeup," Emma assured her.
Anna Elizabeth took a deep breath and nodded before she ran her fingers through her hair.
August then handed his niece a cup of tea.
"Here, this should help you relax," he told her with a smile.
Anna Elizabeth smiled gratefully as she took the tea from him.
"Thank you, Uncle August."
"Sure thing, Anna Elizabeth."
Just then, Matthew ran into his room and returned a minute later with a stuffed bear in his hand.
He gave it to Anna Elizabeth and asked, "Better?"
The blonde furrowed her brows and asked, "What?"
"That's his favorite stuffed animal. It makes him feel better if he's sick or has a nightmare or something like that," August explained.
Anna Elizabeth nodded before turning her attention back to Matthew. The two-year-old then asked, "Otay, Anna Beth?"
Anna Elizabeth ruffled his brown locks as she told him, "I'm okay," with a smile.
Matthew smiled back at her before running back to his room.
"That was sweet of him," Emma commented.
"He has Belle's heart," August told her.
"That isn't entirely Belle," Emma reminded him.
August smiled at her before Belle came through the door with Liam and Colette.
"Daddy, Mommy said you're taking us to the park!" Colette exclaimed.
"Yep. Let me just go get your brother," August told her with a bright smile.
"And you're sure you can handle all three of them by yourself?" Belle asked her husband.
"Of course. We'll be fine," August assured her.
Belle nodded at him with a smile.
Liam then asked, "Anna Elizabeth, how come you can't do your makeup?"
"Well, I can. But I want it to be extra special for prom," Anna Elizabeth explained.
"Oh," Liam replied in understanding.
August then came back with Matthew, and asked, "You guys ready to go?"
"Yes!" Liam and Colette exclaimed enthusiastically.
Colette then took Liam and Matthew's hand, and the three of them were running out the door.
August shook his head and grinned before following them.
Anna Elizabeth then stated, "Let's get started. My makeup is right..."
She cut herself off and groaned.
"What is it, kid?" Emma asked.
"I left my makeup at our house," Anna Elizabeth answered as exasperated as she did earlier.
"It's alright, Anna Elizabeth. We only live five minutes away - I'll go and get it," Emma told her reassuringly.
"I'll just go - I don't remember where in my room I put it," Anna Elizabeth said calmly.
"Okay, kid," Emma replied.
Anna Elizabeth then grabbed her keys and headed toward her car.
Belle then surmised, "She's rather nervous, isn't she?"
Emma nodded before she told her, "I think that nervous is an understatement. Aside from the fact that she'll be the only sophomore at prom, it's her first real date with Nathan. This isn't news to her, but now that it's here, her nerves have gotten to her."
Belle nodded sympathetically before she observed, "I'm sure that she'll relax and have a good time."
"I think that once she's around some friends, she'll be fine," Emma said.
Belle smiled in response before she asked, "You think that my brother will be?"
"He's dealing with it. I think he sees that she's not a little girl, but he's still a bit overprotective," Emma told her.
"I think I'd be worried about him if he wasn't," Belle began with a grin.
She then continued, "On my first date, Liam told me that Killian kept pacing around our apartment. I think my oldest brother is the only reason that Killian wasn't as overprotective as he could have been."
"You know, I've been thinking about how Liam would react to all of this," Emma observed.
"Well, Liam was protective, but he was always more subtle about it. He also worried, but he didn't show it quite as much. I think that part of it was that he was strong, and he felt the need to be that all of that time. I'm still not sure that Killian and I will ever understand how hard it was for him," Belle told her.
"Elsa was the same way," Emma began before she continued, "You know I think that's why she never really dated in high school. She had such a good, kind heart, and she did know how to have fun, but most people couldn't see past what they called an icy exterior. But she and Liam really did understand each other."
"They truly did. And Anna Elizabeth is so much like Liam that, at times, it's almost like he's still here," Belle bemused, becoming emotional.
Emma simply wrapped her sister-in-law in a comforting hug. No words were necessary.
When they pulled away a few moments later, Anna Elizabeth had returned.
She sensed the change in mood and asked, "Mom, Aunt Belle, everything okay?"
"Of course it is. I was just missing Liam, but I'm fine, now," Belle told her.
"It's because I'm so much like him, isn't it?" Anna Elizabeth surmised.
Belle nodded before she told her niece, "You are almost exactly like him. I don't think I realized how much until I moved here and was around you more often. He and Elsa will always be here through you - I'm so grateful that you begged to stay with Killian that night.
They would be so proud of you, Anna Elizabeth. While you are a lot like your father, you are also this an amazing personality that is uniquely you. And it's pretty special. I'm so glad that August and I decided to call Storybrooke home because it means that I really get to see you grow up and become someone that your parents can smile at."
Anna Elizabeth then pulled Belle in for a hug.
As they pulled away, the blonde said, "Thanks, Aunt Belle."
Belle smiled brightly in response.
As the teenager wiped her eyes, she joked, "It's a good thing we didn't start my makeup yet."
Emma and Belle both chuckled before the blonde said, "And that would be her having picked up Killian's sense of humor."
Anna Elizabeth couldn't help but giggle at that.
Belle then said, "How about we go work on your prom look now?"
Anna Elizabeth nodded before she added, "I know I said makeup, but can we start with my hair first? It's going to take longer because it's sooo thick, and these curls are sooo unruly."
Emma and Belle couldn't help but chuckle once more before Emma told her daughter, "Your hair was really beautiful for 8th grade graduation. You pulled it off then."
"And it took, like, forever," the 16-year-old pointed out.
Belle then told her, "I think I can manage, Anna Elizabeth," with a smile.
Anna Elizabeth smiled back at her aunt before all three of them made their way to the master bathroom.
Three hours later, Anna Elizabeth's hair and makeup were finished.
With some help from hair products, Belle had pulled Anna Elizabeth's curls all to one side and held them with a sparkly clip. She left two curls to frame the sides of Anna Elizabeth's face.
Her makeup was simple but elegant. Belle had applied light blue eyeshadow to match Anna Elizabeth's dress and to bring out her eyes. She also put on the slightest bit of eyeliner and mascara. The rest of her makeup was light, accompanied by light pink lipstick.
Belle hadn't let her niece see what she was doing, so when she turned the teenager around in the swivel chair, her face broke into a wide smile.
"I love it! Thanks Aunt Belle!"
"You're so welcome, Anna Elizabeth," Belle replied with a smile.
Anna Elizabeth then looked at the time on her phone and gasped, "I have to get back home and finish getting ready!"
She then rushed out of the room.
Belle and Emma chuckled before the blonde admitted, "I really do appreciate you doing this. Part of me feels like I should have been the one doing her hair and makeup, but you know it's not really my thing."
"I understand completely, Emma, and I'm pretty sure that Anna Elizabeth does as well. It's really alright," Belle replied.
Emma smiled in response before she said, "Well, I'm going to go help her finish getting ready."
Belle nodded in response, and followed Emma into the living room, where August had come in with Colette and Matthew.
Colette then announced, "Matthew felled down Mommy."
Belle's eyes widened with worry, so August assured her, "It's only a scrape on his elbow. He wasn't seriously hurt."
The brunette breathed a sigh of relief.
She then asked, "What happened?"
"He was trying to keep up with Colette and Liam," August explained.
Colette then added, "Daddy said I got to member that Matthew is little."
"Little," Matthew repeated.
Belle then bent down on her children's level and told them, "Daddy is right. I know you want to play, but you still have to watch out so you won't get hurt," running her fingers through each of their brown locks.
Colette and Matthew both nodded before he asked, "Anna Beth?"
"Anna Elizabeth is at home getting ready for the dance," Emma explained.
"Does she look like a princess?" Colette asked.
Emma smiled at the five-year old as she answered, "She will absolutely look like a princess."
The little girl smiled in response before she and her brother ran off to go play.
Emma then asked, "Did Killian get Liam?"
August nodded in response.
The blonde's phone then beeped in her pocket. She grabbed it to see a text from Anna Elizabeth.
Emma then said, "I have to go you guys. I'll see you both later."
Belle and August told her goodbye before Emma was on her way.
When Emma arrived home, she heard Anna Elizabeth's voice, "Is Mom home yet?"
"She just got here, love," Killian answered.
He then kissed his wife's forehead and told her, "Our daughter is in need of your assistance, love."
"I know - she texted me while I was still at Belle's," Emma replied.
Killian nodded before Emma went to Anna Elizabeth's room.
The teenager then stated, "Mom! I can't zip my dress."
"I got it, kid," Emma told her before she went behind her and zipped up the aqua blue dress.
As Emma came to stand in front of her daughter, she offered a bright smile and said, "You look so beautiful, Anna Elizabeth."
Anna Elizabeth smiled back as she said, "Thanks, Mom."
Emma then asked, "Wasn't Evie coming by to take some pictures?"
Her question was answered when Killian shouted for both of them.
When Anna Elizabeth arrived in the living room, Evie told her, "You look amazing!" as she hugged her.
When they pulled away, Anna Elizabeth said, "So do you, Evie!"
As Emma reached to grab her phone, Killian moved to stand beside her and muttered, "Aren't their dresses a little, uh, revealing, love?"
Emma rolled her eyes before she pointed out, "Killian, the dresses are practically down to their knees, and they're perfectly covered up."
Killian raised an eyebrow and told her, "Not quite enough."
"Oh, really? Then explain to me how that is worse than her cheerleading uniform," Emma defended.
"I can hear you guys you know," Anna Elizabeth pointed out.
"Sorry, kid. Let me take the picture," Emma told her.
Evie and Anna Elizabeth posed for the picture with one arm around each other and the other planted on their hips. They smiled brightly as Emma took the photo.
Emma was about to put her phone away when Liam, who had just came from his room, piped up, "I want to take a picture!"
Emma held in a chuckle as she looked toward her daughter and niece. They were also trying not to laugh. They both nodded at Emma before Anna Elizabeth motioned for her brother.
The dark haired boy smiled before running over to Anna Elizabeth and Evie.
Emma tilted her head for a moment before she dragged a chair over and placed it between the girls.
Liam climbed up in the chair and smiled brightly, with Anna Elizabeth and Evie doing the same.
When the picture had been taken, Liam told them, "You look pretty, Anna Elizabeth. You do too, Evie."
"Thank you, Liam. That's very sweet," Evie told him.
Anna Elizabeth ruffled her brother's hair as she told him, "Yeah, thanks, Liam."
He smiled brightly at both of them before he climbed down from the chair and went over to the couch to watch TV.
Emma then asked, "You gonna hang out here until it's time to go, Evie?"
"As much as I would love to see the look on Nathan's face when he sees Anna Elizabeth, Leah, Abigail, and Taylor will be coming over soon," Evie explained.
Emma nodded before she smiled and told her, "Okay, kid. I hope you have fun."
"And be careful, love," Killian added.
"I will, Aunt Emma and Uncle Killian," Evie responded.
The brunette then turned to her cousin and told her, "I'll see you on the dance floor," with a smile.
Anna Elizabeth returned her smile in response.
As Evie was heading out of the door, Liam yelled, "Bye, Evie!"
She waved to him before closing the door behind her.
Killian then asked Anna Elizabeth, "What time is Nathan coming, love?"
"6:45," Anna Elizabeth answered.
"So, we still have over half an hour," Emma surmised.
She then asked, "I know they'll have some food there, but do you want something to eat?"
"Would I turn down food, Mom?" Anna Elizabeth asked.
Emma chuckled before she observed, "I'll take that as a yes." She then went into the kitchen.
Anna Elizabeth then grabbed the chair and moved it back to the table. She then sat down in it, where she was soon joined by Killian.
He took a deep breath before he said, "Anna Elizabeth?"
The blonde looked over at him and asked, "Yeah, Dad?"
"About what I said earlier, love... you really do look beautiful," Killian replied as he moved her hair off her shoulder.
Anna Elizabeth smiled at him brightly as she said, "Thanks, Dad."
Killian returned her smile and nodded.
The teenager then questioned, "Dad, can you do me a favor?"
"Sure, love. What is it that you need?"
Anna Elizabeth took a deep breath before she pleaded, "I know that you're pretty chill with me and Nathan now, but sometimes you're still too overprotective. I get why you are, but can you please not embarrass me when he gets here?"
Killian thought for a moment before he answered honestly, "You don't have anything to worry about."
Anna Elizabeth smiled brightly in response before Emma placed a grilled ham and cheese in front of her.
Five minutes before it was time for Nathan to arrive, Anna Elizabeth rushed out of her bathroom after reapplying her lipstick.
To Emma's relief, the teenager's nerves had been replaced with excitement.
Just then, they all heard a knock at the door.
Emma moved to answer it when Liam asked, "Can I get it?"
The blonde ruffled her son's hair as she told him, "Sure, kid."
The dark-haired boy sprinted over to the door.
As soon as he opened it, he told Nathan, "Anna Elizabeth is really pretty."
Nathan bent down on Liam's level and told him, "I bet she is, because she's pretty anyway."
Liam smiled at him in response before taking the teenage boy's hand and dragging him to where Anna Elizabeth was.
Emma and Killian swore that Nathan's mouth fell open when he saw Anna Elizabeth.
"You look amazing," he told her after a moment.
"Thank you," Anna Elizabeth replied as she twirled one of the curls by her face.
She then told him, "You look great yourself."
Nathan smiled back at her in response.
Emma then said, "Okay, you guys, I want to get some pictures."
"Sure thing, Mom," Anna Elizabeth told her as she moved to stand beside Nathan.
The curly haired blonde tried not tense up as he moved his arm around her waist, as she did the same.
Both of them wore bright smiles as Emma took a picture.
The blonde then said, "Okay, Anna Elizabeth, I want one of you by yourself."
Anna Elizabeth nodded before Nathan moved off to the side.
As soon as Emma had snapped one, Liam asked, "Can I be in this picture, too?"
Emma and Anna Elizabeth grinned as the teenager asked, "Do you mind, Nathan?"
"Not at all," Nathan replied before he smiled at the eight-year-old boy.
The chair was once again put into position. Emma snapped a picture of the three of them before glancing at the time on her phone.
"You guys better get going," Emma told the teenagers.
Both of them nodded before Nathan asked, "Her curfew is at 11, right?"
"Aye, Nathan, it is," Killian answered.
"We promise we won't be late," Anna Elizabeth reassured her parents.
"We know, kid," Emma responded with a smile.
Nathan then added, "We really do have to get going if I'm going to find a place to park."
Anna Elizabeth then hugged both of her parents, with Killian hanging on a little longer.
He told her, "Be safe, love." As they pulled away, he addressed both of them, "I hope you two have a wonderful time tonight."
Both of them smiled before Emma added, "Don't be afraid to get out on the dance floor and have fun."
They nodded before heading toward the door. Nathan stopped and turned to face Emma and Killian, "Thank you both again for letting us happen and for letting me take her to prom. I promise you that she's in good hands."
"That's exactly what worries me," Killian muttered, where only Emma heard him. She squeezed his hand in response.
Emma and Killian then nodded at Nathan before he left with their daughter.
When they were gone, Emma turned to face Killian and ran her fingers through his hair as she told him, "I'm really proud of how you handled that."
Killian offered a small smile as he replied, "Well, love, it wasn't quite as difficult as I thought it would be, and I promised Anna Elizabeth I wouldn't embarrass her."
"I'd say you succeeded," Emma replied with a bright smile.
Liam then piped up, "Are we going to Uncle David and Aunt Mary Margaret's house now?"
"Yep, kid, we are. Go put your shoes on," Emma answered.
When Liam was out of earshot, Killian told her, "You know, love, I still resent the fact that you think I need a distraction from worrying about our daughter. I told you that I don't need one - I'm perfectly alright with Anna Elizabeth and Nathan dating."
"And I told you that I'm not trying to distract you. We're simply hanging out with our family," Emma defended.
"Really, love?" Killian asked with a raised eyebrow.
Emma sighed before she admitted, "Okay, part of it is a distraction. But the other part is just as true. After the week we've both had, we could use some fun, don't you think?"
Killian considered her words before he nodded and said, "Aye, love. You're right."
"Haven't you learned by now that I'm always right?" Emma joked, making Killian roll his eyes.
Liam then came running from his room and announced, "I'm ready!"
"Well, then, lad, let's go," Killian told him with a smile.
When they arrived, Liam instantly ran into his aunt and uncle's arms.
"I'm excited to watch baseball!"
"We are, too," David told his nephew as he ruffled his hair.
"Did Anna Elizabeth and Nathan get off to prom alright?" Mary Margaret then asked.
"Yep. They're probably there by now," Emma answered.
"Well, I think that both our daughters will have a wonderful time," Mary Margaret observed with a bright smile.
"I think they will, too," Emma responded, returning her sister-in-law's smile.
David then announced, "Snacks are ready!" as he brought the bowls into the living room and sat them on the coffee table.
The five of them then settled on the leather sectional.
Killian then asked, "Are Regina and Robin coming?"
"I did invite them, but after Regina's been so stressed with this case, Robin took her out for a romantic night in the city," David explained.
"She definitely deserves it," Emma observed.
Mary Margaret then asked the blonde, "You did get some pictures of the girls, right?"
"Of course I did," Emma replied before taking out her phone and handing it to the brunette.
As soon as Mary Margaret saw the pictures, she beamed.
"Our girls look so beautiful and so happy. And Nathan looks quite handsome."
"Do I look handsome in the pictures, too, Aunt Mary Margaret?" Liam asked.
"Oh, very much so," Mary Margaret replied with a smile.
Liam smiled back at her before he turned his sole focus to the TV.
As the brunette handed Emma back her phone, she asked Killian, "Did you ever get a chance to teach Anna Elizabeth how to waltz?"
"Yes, I did, and she's rather graceful," Killian answered.
"So is Evie. But then again, she's been in ballet since she was 8," David surmised.
"So, she probably already knows how to waltz," Emma surmised.
"Yeah, but I'm not sure she'll need those skills tonight," David replied.
"Unless Jonathan asks her," Mary Margaret added with a grin.
"We don't even know if he likes her back," David pointed out.
"Well, there would be one way to find out - she could ask him," Emma suggested.
Both David and Mary Margaret gave her an odd look while Killian just chuckled beside her.
"Don't look at me like that. We all know that I asked out Killian for our first date," Emma defended.
"Well, Emma, we also know all that bold move was just a way to compensate for how nervous you were," Mary Margaret teased.
"I couldn't help it," Emma tried to defend.
"It's quite alright, love. I tend to have that effect on women," Killian joked with a smirk.
Emma rolled her eyes before she told him, "You know, I'm really hoping that our son doesn't take after you when he starts dating."
Killian laughed before he told her, "You know, Swan, I think you're exaggerating. I really wasn't quite that bad."
Emma smiled as she became serious and said, "I know you weren't."
She then teased, "Besides, even if you don't give me the whole story, I'll just ask Belle."
Everyone laughed at that, except Killian, who rolled his eyes. Liam looked around in confusion for a minute, but then went back to watching the game.
Once everyone had composed themselves, Mary Margaret observed, "Well, for what it's worth, it seems that Anna Elizabeth's boyfriend treats her as well as you treat Emma, Killian. And that's all any parent would want."
Emma and Killian smiled in response before they all began watching the game.
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The food had been served at prom, and everyone was now moving to the dance floor.
Storybrooke's multi-purpose center, which sat on the outskirts of town, had been converted to a place of absolute magic for prom.
The back of the room was decorated to look like an enchanted forest that led into the front of room, which was decorated like a castle. White twinkling lights encompassed the whole space. Glitter was on each of the tables, and two thrones were sitting up front, reserved for the prom king and queen. The famous words, "Once upon a time..." were front and center hanging above the thrones.
Even though Anna Elizabeth and Nathan had been there for almost half an hour, she was still in awe.
"I can't believe how gorgeous this place looks. I feel like I'm in Cinderella or Snow White."
"Well, you are a princess," Nathan responded with a smile.
Anna Elizabeth couldn't help but blush in response.
Just as they had settled on the dance floor, the blonde caught a glimpse of Stephanie. Luckily, she didn't see Anna Elizabeth.
Nathan saw who his girlfriend's eyes were focused on, so he reassured her, "Hey, don't worry about her. We are going to have a great time."
Anna Elizabeth gave him a bright smile in response.
Just then, she heard, "Hey, blondie!"
She instantly knew that it was Sean. He was one of Nathan's best friends, and he was a goofball.
As he came up to them, he told Anna Elizabeth and Nathan, "Look at you two looking all fancy."
"Well, it is prom. It's sort of the idea," Nathan responded.
"It's also an excuse to hang out with the girlfriend you never shut up about. I guess it was wishful thinking that you would stop after you asked her out."
"Anna Elizabeth does the same thing," Evie's voice from behind them said.
"You guys are dorks," Anna Elizabeth said.
"And you're a cheerleader, Nathan is a quarterback, and Evie uh, likes ballet. That really isn't news, Anna Elizabeth," Sean replied, making everyone laugh.
Just then, the music started, and Evie said, "I don't know about you guys, but this ballerina wants to dance with her friends."
As she walked off, Sean tilted his head and observed, "Maybe it's just me, but I feel like she was correcting me."
He then shrugged and headed further out on the dance floor, leaving Anna Elizabeth and Nathan laughing.
Nathan then asked, "Care to dance, Princess?"
Anna Elizabeth smiled as she answered, "I'd love to."
Nathan then grabbed her hand, and they went over to their friends to dance along to "Cupid Shuffle."
Just as the next song was beginning, Anna Elizabeth began sprinting back to their table.
"Where are you going, Anna Elizabeth?" Nathan asked.
"To take my shoes off - I can't dance in them," Anna Elizabeth answered.
Nathan only shook his head and grinned in response.
The tile floor was cold on Anna Elizabeth's bare feet, but she kept on dancing anyway.
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"I still don't know how you know the dance to "Footloose"," Taylor told Anna Elizabeth.
"Because she's so old school, like Aunt Emma and Uncle Killian," Evie answered.
"Hey, that's not necessarily a bad thing," Anna Elizabeth defended.
"You know, Princess, you are sort of old school," Nathan added.
"Coming from the guy who drives a 1966 Mustang," Sean reminded him.
Everyone chuckled in response.
Just then, the DJ announced that it was time for what everyone had been waiting for: the announcement of prom king and queen, followed by the waltz.
Evie then turned her attention to Anna Elizabeth and Nathan and told them, "I voted for you guys."
"Really?" Anna Elizabeth asked in surprise.
"Yep," Evie responded with a smile.
Anna Elizabeth offered a small smile as she pointed out, "Well, thanks, Cuz, but I doubt that anyone knows me. I am younger than everyone else here."
"You've really got to stop worrying about that, Princess. You know that I don't care that you're younger than me," Nathan told her.
"I wasn't worrying about it - I was just stating a fact," Anna Elizabeth reassured him.
Just then, the names were announced, and the couple made their way up front.
"Aww, I kind of wanted you guys to get it," Abigail said.
"You guys are sweet, but I honestly don't care about being prom queen. All I care about is having fun," Anna Elizabeth told them.
"Well, I think we've accomplished that, Anna Elizabeth. I loved seeing you smile and laugh so much," Nathan told her with a smile.
Anna Elizabeth returned his smile as she rubbed her hands together.
"Well, lovebirds, the night isn't over for you two yet. You have a waltz to share," Evie reminded them with a smile.
Just then, music from Swan Lake filled the room.
Nathan turned to look back at his girlfriend as he asked, "May I have this dance, Princess?"
Anna Elizabeth twirled one of curls before her face broke out into a bright smile, and she answered, "You may."
He then took one of her hands in hers and led her across the floor.
Their hands stayed joined as Nathan rested his free hand on Anna Elizabeth's waist, and she placed hers on his shoulder.
As they started to dance, Anna Elizabeth swore that Nathan could hear her heart, which was thumping wildly in her chest.
The blonde was wondering how she managed to even remember what her dad had taught her.
Nathan could sense that she was nervous and told her, "Hey, it's just me. We've been dancing all night - this isn't any different."
Anna Elizabeth took a deep breath as she took in his words.
She then smiled brightly at him and said, "You're right. I want to enjoy this dance with you."
Nathan returned her smile before he said, "Glad to hear it, Princess."
As they continued to move across the floor, he told her, "You're really graceful, Anna Elizabeth."
"Thank you," Anna Elizabeth began before she added, "Pretty good considering that I only learned how to do this last week."
Nathan looked at her curiously as he asked, "I thought your dad had been teaching you."
"Well, he did teach me, but I didn't know about the waltz until you told me the other day at school," Anna Elizabeth admitted.
She then took a deep breath and apologized, "I'm sorry I wasn't straight up with you. I just didn't want to look like a dork in front of you."
"It's alright, Anna Elizabeth," Nathan told her.
He then continued, "You are awesome, Anna Elizabeth. I'm so happy that you're my girlfriend. You never have to worry about looking like a dork around me."
Anna Elizabeth blushed slightly as she smiled at him.
She then told him, "I'm glad that you're my boyfriend, too."
He returned her smile as they continued to dance, with him moving his hand further around her waist.
Their nerves finally faded, and each of them wore the brightest smiles as they waltzed across the floor. It really did feel like a fairytale, and it was something that neither one of them would forget.
Nathan pulled into the driveway and shut off his car. He then got out and went around to open Anna Elizabeth's door.
She stepped out on still bare feet, carrying her shoes and cell phone in one hand.
Nathan took the other one, and they walked hand-in-hand toward the door.
They stopped in front of it, and Anna Elizabeth told him, "I had the best time tonight," with a bright smile.
"I had a great time too, Princess," Nathan responded as he returned her smile.
"It was an amazing first date," Anna Elizabeth told him.
"Well, I thought so, too. But I still intend to take you on a real one soon," Nathan told her.
Anna Elizabeth blushed slightly and twirled her hair around her finger as she told him, "I can't wait."
She then said, "Well, it's almost 11. I better get inside."
Nathan nodded before he pulled her in for a hug.
As they pulled away, they stared into each other's eyes for a moment before they slowly started leaning in.
Once again, Anna Elizabeth's heart was beating wildly in her chest. She couldn't believe this was actually happening.
The moment that Nathan's lips were on hers, goosebumps erupted all over her skin. She only thought she had been nervous before. However, they soon faded away as she let herself get caught up in the moment.
The kiss was everything a first kiss should be. It was soft and sweet, and it made both of them feel like they were on cloud 9. Though it only lasted a few moments, it felt as though it would go on for a lifetime. It was the perfect end to a magical evening.
As they pulled away, Nathan stammered out, "So, um, I'll see you, uh, Monday, Anna Elizabeth."
"Uh, you too, Nathan," Anna Elizabeth replied, as she continuously twirled a curl on her finger.
She watched him drive away before stepping inside the house.
As she closed the door behind her, she leaned against it. She felt as though she was walking on air as she replayed the kiss in her mind.
She was pulled from her thoughts when she heard her mother's voice, "Earth to Anna Elizabeth."
Anna Elizabeth's head popped up as she asked, "Huh? Did you say something?"
"I asked you if you had fun. But you seem rather distracted," Emma replied, with a knowing smile.
Anna Elizabeth blushed deeply before she answered her mother's question, "I had the best time with Nathan and my friends. It was so much fun," with a bright smile.
"Well, love, we're both glad to hear that," Killian told her from his place leaning against the kitchen counter.
He then asked, "How did the waltz go?"
"Amazing. I know this is so cheesy, but I really did feel like a princess," Anna Elizabeth answered.
"It isn't cheesy at all - it's actually really sweet," Emma reassured her.
Anna Elizabeth blushed at Emma's comment as she looked down. She then said with a giddy smile, "Just like when Nathan kissed me," not realizing that her parents heard her.
"He did what?" Killian asked protectively as he crossed his arms.
Emma glared at him and hit his arm as Anna Elizabeth looked up with wide eyes.
"Oh, um, did I say that out loud?"
"Yeah, kid, you did," Emma told her.
"Well, um, he did kiss me," Anna Elizabeth repeated with nervousness in her voice as she ran her fingers through the hair.
"On the mouth?" Killian questioned.
"Where else was he going to kiss her?" Emma pointed out.
Killian looked sideways at her as he said, "He shouldn't be bloody kissing her at all."
"Really, Killian?" Emma scolded.
"It's the truth, Emma."
Anna Elizabeth then said, "Um, okay, I'm going to bed."
The teenager then stalked off to her room.
Emma then sighed and looked at Killian.
"We didn't handle that the best."
"And by we, you mean me. I'm sorry, love. I thought was handling this, but the idea of him kissing her is a whole other level," Killian admitted.
Emma nodded before she pulled him in for a hug.
As they pulled away, Killian said, "I want to talk to her, but I've no idea what to say."
"I think that the truth's a start," Emma told him.
Killian nodded and took a deep breath before heading toward his daughter's room.
He knocked on her door as he asked, "Can I come in, love?"
"Just a second," Anna Elizabeth replied.
A moment later, a pajama clad Anna Elizabeth opened the door.
"Yeah, Dad?"
"I want to talk, love," Killian replied.
Anna Elizabeth nodded before she moved to sit on her bed as Killian sat beside her.
Killian took another deep breath before he apologized, "I'm sorry that I overreacted about the kiss."
"Why did you? I mean, I know you're, like, protective, but that was a bit much," Anna Elizabeth told him.
Killian ran his fingers through his hair before he spoke, "I know that you were excited about the kiss, love. I could see how happy it made you. But then I had to behave like a bloody idiot. Believe me, love, that wasn't my intention.
I just feel like that the kiss marks a new level in you and Nathan's relationship. I can already see how much you two care for one another. And I just feel that this is now serious, and it scares me, love."
"Why would you be scared?" Anna Elizabeth asked in confusion.
"The more serious this becomes, the more likely it is that you'll fall in love. Which means a bigger heartbreak if you two break up. That's the last thing I want you to have to deal with. I watched my sister deal with it, and I don't want you to have the pain that she did."
"That might not even happen, Dad. Maybe we'll be like Uncle David and Aunt Mary Margaret," Anna Elizabeth tried to reassure him.
"I appreciate the sentiment, Anna Elizabeth, but it's a bit early to be talking about marriage," Killian told her.
He then tilted his head and raised an eyebrow as he questioned, "Unless...?"
"Dad, no. I mean, one day I want to, and I want what you and Mom have. But there's a lot I want to do first. And with Nathan? I haven't thought about it," Anna Elizabeth answered.
"As it should be," Killian began. He then took a breath and continued, "You, love, are very mature and reflective for your age. Way more so than I was. And while it can be a good thing to put your whole heart into everything you do, it also means you'll have it broken more often. I know that it's important for you to learn life's lessons, but I'd prefer that you just live your days without a care in the world."
"I'm not sure that's realistic, Dad," Anna Elizabeth pointed out.
"It probably isn't, but you still shouldn't carry the weight of the world on your shoulders and worry about everything, as you so often do. Your father was forced into that, and he had to grow up too fast. He wouldn't want that for you, my love, especially since you have a choice."
Anna Elizabeth took in Killian's words before she simply replied, "I know, Dad."
Killian ran his fingers through her curls as he told her, "I really do want you to have fun and enjoy yourself. All I want is for you to be happy, Anna Elizabeth."
"I am happy, Dad. I have an awesome family, the best friends, and an amazing boyfriend. And I have fun with all of you. You don't have to worry, Dad," Anna Elizabeth assured him.
Killian smiled at her as he said, "How about we make a deal? I won't worry if you won't, love."
Anna Elizabeth returned his smile before she said, "Deal."
She then wrapped her arms around his neck in a hug. Killian hugged her back tightly and kissed her forehead.
As they pulled away, they heard Emma's voice, "So, I take it that you guys are okay?"
"Totally," Anna Elizabeth answered with a smile.
Emma returned her smile in response.
Killian then added, "We've all had a long day. I think we'd better get some sleep."
"I'm not sure that Anna Elizabeth will get any, thinking about that kiss," Emma teased.
"Mooom," the teenager groaned as she blushed deeply.
Emma and Killian couldn't help but chuckle before they told their daughter goodnight.
"Night, Mom and Dad," Anna Elizabeth replied before her parents left the room.
When Killian and Emma climbed into bed, she propped up on her elbow and looked down at her husband.
"Well, we got through prom with her first boyfriend."
Killian offered a small smile as he said, "I think a more accurate description is that you helped me get through it, Swan."
Emma used her other hand to run her fingers through his hair as she told him, "You're her father, Killian. You may have overreacted a few times, but it's perfectly normal. I wouldn't have expected any different from you."
"Really, love?"
"Of course, Killian," Emma began. She then took a deep breath and continued, "Sometimes I wish you were a lot less overprotective for Anna Elizabeth's sake, but at the end of the day, I know it's because you love her and don't want her to get hurt.
You have always been an amazing father to her, even when you weren't sure that you could do it. She is so lucky to have you, and she knows that.
And when she goes on more dates with Nathan, when she's named cheer captain, when she's picking out colleges, when she crashes her mom's Camaro, when she's nursing a broken heart, when she's graduating as valedictorian, and whatever the next few years may bring, you will be your slightly overprotective self and help her get through it.
We will help her get through it together. I knew that this day would come when I said "I do." I do understand how you feel because, at times, it seems like just yesterday that she was that little girl who ran to our room during a thunderstorm.
But now, she's this amazing young woman, and this was another step toward total independence. I know that's scary, but it's nothing we can't handle. And it's nothing she can't handle because we raised her well, Killian."
Killian reached up to caress her cheek as he said, "You know, Swan, I'm still wondering how I got so lucky to have you as my wife."
Emma smiled at him as she told him, "Oh, believe me, I'm the lucky one."
He then sat up and pulled her in for a lingering kiss. When they pulled away, they rested their foreheads against each other's as they caught their breath.
Killian then told her, "I love you, Emma."
Emma smiled at him as she told him, "I love you, too, Killian."
He returned her smile as he ran his fingers through her long blonde locks.
He then kissed her forehead before he told her, "Good night, my love."
"Good night, Killian."
They then settled into bed for a good night's sleep, both dreaming about the future of both of their amazing kids.
And across the house, their 16-year-old was dreaming of her brown-eyed boy, and the night that she'd always remember.