As one month passed into the next, Emma continued to enjoy her time at the hospital but had to admit that the long hours could be difficult, especially when it kept her and Killian apart. When she heard talk of one of the private medical groups looking for a physician to buy into the practice, she found herself surprisingly interested. She had been surprised when August, who was the neurologist in the practice, had approached her about it and she found she was giving it serious consideration. The thought of seeing patients in an office and having regular business hours was very appealing. So lost in thought was she that it took her several seconds to realize her name was being called, and when she realized who it was, she inwardly groaned. Killian's assistant, Tink, as he called her, was protective of him and hadn't completely accepted her into his life.

"Tink, I'm so sorry. I was lost in thought. How have you been?"

"Good." Then she got right to the point. "Emma, it's no secret that Killian, and his brother, Liam, are like family to me and I'm sure you've noticed that I've been wary of your relationship with him."

Emma smirked at her, "Really?"

Tink had the grace to look a little sheepish, "Sorry about that but I knew that he had been hung up on someone for a while and I didn't want him to get hurt."

"And I appreciate that someone has had Killian's back. But I'm not going to hurt him. I love him," Emma told her quietly.

Tink acknowledged that with a slight tilt of her head, "And I can tell he loves you which is where my idea might make both of you very happy. With your schedule and his often conflicting, Killian's mind is not completely in the moment during some of our theme cruises. I thought of an idea, if you're interested that is, of a way for you to become a part of our team."

Emma looked at her a moment before responding, "Do I want to know? That gleam in your eye is kind of scary."

Tink's smile got larger. "Oh, trust me, if I know Killian, he will be so happy, I might even get a raise out of this idea."

Grinning a little at Tink, Emma committed herself, "I may live to regret this, especially by the tone of your voice, but for him, my discomfort is a cross I'm willing to bear.

K&E

There was a different excitement in the air as they went about setting up for the evening's Swashbuckling Cruise. Killian hadn't been able to put his finger on what, but not only had there been whispering going on between the crew members, but Tink was missing. And while Tink was usually the one to meet the charter buses when they arrived at the docks, tonight's crowd was different. They were not only a younger group, but also larger, and for something new, it was surprising for her to be absent. Deciding to put it out of his mind, he busied himself with making sure the ship was ready to sail, something he could do by rote, and still think of his Swan. Wondering if she was home from the hospital yet, he pulled out his phone and sent her a quick text.

K: Good evening love. Are you home yet?

Smiling when she quickly answered, he read:

E: Not yet.

K: Busy?

E: No. Changing.

K: Into what?

E: Wouldn't you like to know?

K: Perhaps I would

E: You will see it later.

K: Good.

E: ;-).

K: I miss you. See you soon.

E: Yes, you will

Before he could ask her what she meant by that, Eddie needed help with moving some of the tables for the guests and then it was time to get into his Captain Hook wear for the evening's festivities.

K&E

Emma finished her last message and after putting her phone away, turned to Tink, "Let me put this on and I'll be ready to go."

Slipping behind the dressing area, she separated the parts of the costume and put them on. "And you're sure I need to wear the corset?" She grunted as she pulled it on, and tightened it.

Tink laughed, "Sorry, part of the look. Trust me, Killian will appreciate the view."

Emma pulled the dress over her head and tied the strings covering the bodice. Walking out from the dressing area, she remarked "If it was any lower cut, certain parts of me might fall out."

Tink handed her a cape to wrap around her shoulders, "Here, this will keep you covered until the unveiling." As they walked out of the office, heading to meet the charter buses, Tink filled Emma in on her part for tonight.

K&E

Stepping back on deck in his Captain Hook wear, Killian caught up with Eddie and they went over the plan for the evening. He, as Hook, would choose a lady from the 'group' and at some point, Eddie, as Blackbeard, would 'take' her, and tie her up. Then there would be a sword fight and Hook would rescue the damsel. Thinking if the damsel was Swan, then maybe… which was a thought left dangling before Wendy walked by dressed as Peter Pan.

"Wendy, where has Tink been?"

Wendy looked at him with such fear on her face, he felt he had asked her to reveal a major secret instead of the whereabouts of his bloody employee.

She was quiet for so long, he wasn't sure she was going to answer before she stuttered out, "She's, she's, ugh with the new girl." Then she scurried away just like a rat, who's being chased by a cat.

Wondering what part of the picture he was missing, he turned to go ask Eddie but was halted by the arrival of the charter buses. Pulling his Captain Hook character around himself like armor, he went to his place at the top of the gangplank and waited for his guests to cross.

K&E

Emma had never been involved in drama in school, but as a child, she often felt the need to pretend to be someone else. Her thought was that if she were someone else, she wouldn't have to be, Emma Swan, orphan. She was Emma, sister to M&M. Emma, daughter to Leo and Ava, not Emma Swan, orphan. As she got older, she didn't mind being Emma Swan, orphan, because she knew that Ava and Leo and M&M loved her as if she were a Blanchard, but there were other ways for her to pretend, other ways to view herself. She was Emma Swan, a doctor, a sister, a student, rarely would she allow herself to be, Emma Swan, a woman, until Killian came into her life. Killian had slowly chipped down those walls, allowing her to see the softer side of herself, and now, she was proud and happy of who she was with him. She was Emma Swan, a woman in love and tonight, she was a bar wench, who was going to be spending the evening with Captain Hook and his rag tag crew.

As the buses rolled to a stop, Tink looked over at Emma, "You ready? Remember get behind the group of girls and boys, I pointed out to you and then, they will move aside so you can put your hand in Killian's before he even sees you."

"I know Tink. I'm good." And before Tink could get too far away, she called, "Thanks. I owe you one."

Tink walked back to where she was standing, "It is I who owe you. ".

Emma furrowed her brow at her, "Me? What did I do?"

"You love my friend, that's what. As his friend, I've never seen him so happy. And as his employee, when he's not grumpy, the business is a happier place."

Noticing that the students were getting antsy, Tink stood up and gave last minute instructions, as well as answered a few questions. She was excited about this group as they were freshman college students on a field trip with their dorm who all wanted to relax before taking final exams. She knew the girls would all swoon over Captain Hook and with Emma around, maybe they would keep their hands to themselves, but if not, she was sure Emma could take care of it. Leading them off the bus, they walked toward the gangplank, where they would be met by Peter Pan, Blackbeard, and the Captain himself. Tink couldn't wait to see Killian's look of shock when he got a look at Emma and her bar wench ensemble.

K&E

Killian saw all the college students, led by Tink, heading his way. Assuming his Hook stance, pulling himself up tall, shoulders back, hips cocked, and a little swag in his movements, he waited for the ladies. As always, he buzzed the back of their hand, winked and called them milady, but these girls were a bit different than his older set. A little pushier, more secure in their sensuality, especially some of them, and he found it a bit off-putting. The girls were pushing ahead, flirting, and he found it necessary to 'step back' from the situation. For the first time in a long while, he was performing without thinking until he took hold of a hand and got a whiff of his Swan's unique smell, vanilla, and sugar. Thinking he had surely gone daft, he bent over the hand that he was holding, but the smell was stronger and reminded him so much of her, he looked up only to have his eyes stop at the sexy décolletage of the woman he loved. Continuing on up to her eyes, he raised an eyebrow.

"Like what you see Captain?"

Killian didn't think, just reacted by tugging her hand so that she fell into his arms, and then plundered her mouth before swooping her down into a dip. He felt Emma wrap her arms around his neck, kissing him back as if it had been months since they had seen each other instead of hours. He was content to just stand here with his Swan in his arms until he heard giggling around him, and slowly released her lips, but kept her bent over his arm.

"Swan, you didn't tell me you were going to be here," he whispered before bending over to give her another quick kiss.

Emma stared into the lust filled eyes of her Captain, "I told you that you would see me later," she responded with a little laughter in her voice. Reaching up she laid her hand along his jaw, caressing along his scruff with her thumb, "Shouldn't you let me up so you can finish welcoming your passengers on board?"

Killian slanted a look at the gaggle of girls staring at them, "Bloody hell!" he exclaimed bringing Emma upright, but keeping her in the circle of his arms. Tempted to toss her over his shoulder and carry her to the cabin, he pulled every ounce of his self-restraint out, to complete the business at hand.

Turning to Blackbeard, who was standing there watching him with a smirk on his face, Killian jutted his chin in Emma's direction to stake his claim, "This one," he said before giving her a hard kiss, "is mine. Keep your hands off!" Then turned back to the last few girls and welcomed them aboard.

Blackbeard tossed his red duster aside, showing off the hilt of his sword, "We shall see about that!" he exclaimed before turning and stalking off.

Killian smirked at Tinkerbelle who had just walked up, "Remind me to give you a raise."

Turning back to Emma, Killian took his finger and traced around the low neckline of her gown, growling a little as he reached the center, where he dipped his finger, inside the bodice, "I like this outfit whole lot. Come to the bridge with me?"

She picked up his finger and kissed the tip. "I told Tink I'd help serve. Later?" Nodding his head alright, he gave her one last kiss before she followed Tink to the galley to serve the hungry college students and he went up to the bridge to set sail.

K&E

Killian guided the ship away from the dock and sailed out into the Bay toward the Atlantic Ocean, while periodically keeping an eye on the happenings down on the deck. He enjoyed watching his Swan as she moved effortlessly around the deck as easily as her namesake moved along the water. He couldn't believe she was here, in his world, dressed as a bar wench, for him. When he had read his mother's letter and she had written.

…..Find that special woman to love and when you find her, hold on to her with all you have. Love is precious and you, my son, have such an immense capacity for it that when you find her, you will know.

He had imagined finding love someday but never the way it actually happened. It had not even been three months since they had physically found each other, yet she was such an ingrained part of his very soul that if he lost her, he wasn't sure what he would do. In the distance he caught sight of a shooting star, its tail leaving trails of sparks in its wake.

"Thanks, mum," he whispered before turning his attention back to watching Emma and Blackbeard and waiting for his cue to slide down the rigging to rescue his damsel from the cutthroat pirate.

K&E

Emma followed Tink down to the galley where she helped pull out the trays to serve the guests. It was mindless work and as she went from table to table, setting down plates and refilling cups, she listened to the chatter going on around her. Most of it had to do with final exams and the student's plans for the summer, but at one table there was a lively discussion about a man's package and the fit of his clothing and how it allowed for the appreciation of such package. It took her a few minutes to realize the package they were talking about, happened to belong to her man, which essentially made it her package. Trying to decide if she wished to say anything or not, she looked up at her Pirate Captain standing on the bridge and was taken aback by what she saw.

He was standing behind the wheel, the breeze blowing his dark hair over his forehead. She had noticed his clothing when she had first boarded the ship but hadn't had time to appreciate it before he swooped in with that kiss that was so hot she felt like she needed a dip in the sea to cool off. He was wearing all black tonight, complete with eyeliner, which served to highlight the blue of his eyes and made her feel they were piercing to her very soul, even across the distance of the deck. His shirt was black silk with voluminous sleeves, unbuttoned to mid-chest. Over that he was wearing a black leather vest with gold braided fasteners and these topped black leather pants that hugged his body in a such a way that should be outlawed. And while earlier he had been wearing his black leather duster, he had tossed it aside in deference to the warm South Florida night. Unconsciously she licked her lips as she stood admiring him, but when she noticed a slight widening of his eyes and a devilish grin cross his face, causing his dimples to pop out, she knew she had given herself away. Fanning herself with the extra napkins she had been carrying, she blew him a kiss and walked back to the table that had been discussing her sexy pirate.

As she walked up to the table, Emma heard the girls giggling, and then one said, "He looks like a man who knows what to do with a woman." And all around the table, the girls were humming in agreement.

Biting her tongue to refrain from saying anything too nasty that wouldn't be good for his business, she continued with her tasks. Moving to the next table, she could still hear the girls discussing Killian, and then she heard her name brought into the conversation. The majority of the talk seemed to come from two of the girls, as one said. "Was that woman he kissed his girlfriend? What's so special about her?

Then laughed to herself when another girl said, "Well she's pretty enough, I guess."

High praise, Emma thought. Until the mouthier of the two said, "I bet I could handle him just fine," and snickered.

Walking up behind the girl, Emma bent down so there would be no misunderstanding as to whom she was talking to. "Oh. I handle him just fine. Sometimes several times a day."

Then with a devilish grin on her face, she picked up an empty tray and escaped to the galley to clear her head.

K&E

Feeling good about what she had said to the girls, she checked on a few other tables and had just set down a pitcher of water, when she felt someone grab her around the waist. Knowing it wasn't Killian, her fighting instinct kicked in and she turned and without any warning to her attacker, hit him on the chin with a hard right cross. The look of surprise on his face as he was knocked to the ground equaled what she was feeling when she realized, his grabbing her must have been part of the act. Just as she was going to make sure he was ok, there was a commotion behind her and she turned to see Killian landing on the deck after sliding down from the bridge, using the ropes. "Oh" was all she got out before being pushed aside by Wendy, who was coming to check on her beau, Eddie and by Killian, who arrived resplendent in his full costume.

"Swan, you just deprived me of a dashing rescue," he said as he cocked that damn eyebrow.

"Sorry? You should have warned me."

This time it was his turn to look sheepish, "Bloody hell. You showed up looking like that," he waved his hand toward her dress, "and well, I guess I wasn't thinking." He sauntered a bit closer invading her space.

"Thinking with the right head, you mean?"

"With those," he glanced down, "on display did you think I would be thinking clearly?" he asked quietly taking another step closer. "Does the fact that I didn't 'rescue' you mean I don't get a kiss?"

Emma looked around her, and while their conversation had been mostly quiet, all eyes were focused their way, "I'd hate to deprive you of that, Captain." Stepping closer, she ran her finger around the 'V' that was present from the opened buttons of his shirt, then, taking hold of his jacket lapels with both hands, she tugged him forward, their lips meeting in a fiery kiss. He let her lead, only gently placing his hands in her hair, and taking advantage, she controlled the kiss, sucking his bottom lip into her mouth, before opening wider and allowing the kiss to deepen.

She could feel herself getting lost in the sensuous haze that always surrounded her, when Killian was near until he broke the kiss and buried his face in her neck. His breathing, once again under control, he murmured for only her to hear, "Thank gods for long jackets." Then leaning back smirked at her.

Emma smirked right back, "Oh, and why thank gods?"

Rubbing his nose lightly against her, he whispered, "You know."

"Hmm, yes Captain, I do," then licking her lips, "I'll take care of THAT later." And winked before sashaying away.

Thankfully, Eddie hadn't been hurt and with a little TLC from Wendy was as good as new. Once she had taken care of all the tables and the guests were listening to music, Emma went up to the bridge to be with Killian. He pulled her in front of him and then surrounded her with his hands on the wheel. Leaning back against him, she enjoyed the feel of the sea breeze and the soothing undulations of the ship beneath her feet.

K&E

Killian loved that Emma had come to him and having her in front of him, relaxing back against him was like a little slice of heaven. "Penny for your thoughts Swan."

Turning her head, she nuzzled his jaw, "I was just thinking how peaceful it is up here and beautiful"

"Aye, love it is. But it doesn't hold a candle to you." Bending his head, he pulled her right earlobe into his mouth, giving it a small nip.

Emma giggled at his smooth talk, "Hoping to get lucky later?"

He had moved to her other ear and was nibbling on its rim, and growled low in his throat, "Is it working?"

"Well, Captain, we might be able to work something out."

"Something out? Nah, I am thinking more the opposite." And taking one hand off of the wheel, he hugged her to him tightly.

For the trip back to the dock, Emma sat in the captain's chair, watching as the lights of the city got brighter, the closer to the dock they were. She watched the crew working together as a team and while couldn't help but feel a little jealousy at the time they'd had with Killian, but was very happy that she now had become a part of their group. Rubbing her hands along his back, assuring herself that he was real, she appreciated the easy way he handled the large ship. Stroking, loving his other Swan, as easily as he handled her. Happiness settled around her as the ship glided along the waves.

K&E

After they had docked and the ship was tied up, the gangplank was put in place and the co-eds were back on the bus the cleaning commenced. Emma helped fold up tables, chairs, and anything else that needed to be done, thinking the quicker they were done, the quicker she had her pirate all to herself. As she moved from one area of the deck, she couldn't help but notice just how sexy Killian looked in his black clothing. He moved around carrying the tables and chairs at ease with his tasks, and as he had apparently gotten too warm, he had unfastened his leather vest, leaving it hanging open. He had also opened a few more buttons on his shirt, so now it fell open almost to his stomach, leaving his spectacular chest available for viewing. And those girls were right about his pants. Not only did they draw the eyes to the front, but when he bent over to pick up things, they looked just as good from the back.

"Mama Mia," she murmured under her breath, wondering how she was going to behave until they were home.

Hearing his voice, she looked up just as he was pushing the last cart of chairs under the tarp, and telling Eddie he was going to his cabin to change and they would finish up as soon as he returned. Looking around to make sure that no one was paying any attention to her, she slipped after him, arriving just a few minutes after the door had been shut. Quietly opening the door, she slipped inside. Having already removed his vest as it was tossed on the bed, he had one hand under the left suspender when he turned toward her.

Emma took a minute to scan him from his stem to his stern, then posed a question, "Need some help, Captain?"

Killian sauntered a little closer, then bending at the waist, he leaned in, "Well, lass, that all depends. Are you offering?" And standing up straight waited for her response.

Emma wrapped her fingers around his suspender straps and tugged him closer, "I'd be happy," then she slid the right suspender off his shoulder, "to help." There were only a few buttons still closed, and slowly she unbuttoned them, one by one. Sliding her thumb and forefinger back and forth across the silky fabric, she glanced up, "I bet this feels amazing against your skin."

Killian reached out with his right arm and wrapped her in his embrace, pulling her tightly against his body. She fit so perfectly in his arms, he wanted nothing but to lose himself in her soft body, but this wasn't the time. "Emma love, you are making this very hard" was all he got out before she interrupted him.

"I can feel that babe." She smirked, "but isn't that the idea?"

Completing the circle, she slid her hands through his chest hair and up around his neck. She pulled his head down and standing on her tip toes their lips met in an open mouth kiss meant to elicit more than one carnal desire. The kiss went on and on, both breathing hard, with both of their hands traveling from one body part to another. Emma felt the laces on her bodice give way as she tugged at the laces on his leathers finally freeing them allowing her access to other treasures. Pushing his shirt off his shoulders, she felt it fall to the floor before she reached around and pushed his pants down, allowing them to also fall to the floor.

Killian released her lips long enough, to murmur, "Gods Emma, what you make me feel." Before sliding his hands under her full skirt and picking her up. He balanced her against the door and as she wrapped her legs around his waist she fit their bodies together as one. He captured her lips with his setting a rhythm with his tongue and body that she had no trouble catching up to and they raced together until they shattered as one on the other side. His heart was racing, his breath coming faster and he had bloody hell just about set fire to his ship he had been in such a hurry. He tightened his hold on her, allowing them both to take deep breaths until he felt he could formulate a coherent sentence.

"You alright Swan?"

Emma hummed deep in her throat, the pleasure she was feeling all too evident in the almost purring tone of her voice. She leaned her head back against the door so she could see his face.

"Perfect. You?"

He laughed a low husky sound, "Perfect. Think my crew knows what we've been doing?"

Emma slid off of Killian and readjusted her skirts then giggled, "Probably. You ok with that?"

While she waited for his answer she unfastened her dress and pulled it over her head, giving him an eyeful of woman. Picking up the silky black shirt, she dropped the uncomfortable corset on the bed and slid the cool, soft material on and buttoned it up. She pulled some old jeans out of a drawer and slid into those before looking for some flip flops that she remembered leaving onboard the last time they had spent the day at sea. Once dressed, she brushed her hair and turned to see Killian standing there staring at her. "What?"

He gave her a shy, but radiant smile, "I love you," he told her before kissing her once quickly and then hurriedly dressing. They walked up the steps together, wrapped in each other's arms to discover that the crew had locked up and left them alone. Crossing the gangplank, they locked the dock gate and drove home, where they had several repeat performances of their nightly activities.

K&E

Early one Saturday in June, Emma sat on the patio looking out at the water thinking she had never been happier. She fell in love with Killian a little more every day, even when she didn't think that was possible and in just over a month her new niece or nephew was going to be born. Which was why she was up freaking early on a Saturday, instead of in bed! Even Rumple had opened one eye, before promptly shutting it and going back to doggy dreamland, couldn't be enticed to keep her company in the kitchen.

Having put off the food preparations as long as possible, Emma started pulling all the ingredients for all the finger foods that she had decided to make for her sister's baby shower. Not only were all the ladies going to be there, but also spouses and children. What had she been thinking? Not thinking, obviously. Since she wasn't going fancy, it was mainly just a lot of cutting, sorting and stacking, but David loved his pigs-n-blankets, so those would need to cook. Once everything was out, she turned on some music and started cutting.

The pigs-n-blanket were done and in a warming pan, a few cheese and cracker creations were done and she was in the middle of putting together some small sandwich platters when she felt arms come around her waist and a scruffy cheek next to hers as he rested his chin on her shoulder. Popping a piece of turkey into his mouth, she asked, "I didn't wake you did I?"

As he finished chewing, he kissed her on the cheek and then moved next to her to lean against the counter, "You're not being next to me is what woke me. Do you need help?"

"You're going to help?" She squinted her eyes at him, "Really? Or do you just want to sample the food?"

The tips of his ears got pink, and tucking his chin, dimpled at her, "Caught me. But really, do you need help? Maybe setting up outside?"

Looking up from what she was doing, "You would work out in the hot sun on your day off, for me?"

Raising an eyebrow at her, he leaned in, "You didn't think I would?"

Putting down what she had been working on and moving closer to him, she leaned against his chest. He wrapped her in his secure embrace and waited patiently for what she had to say.

"I'm sorry. When Graham and I dated, he was more wrapped up in what he wanted when it came to parties than what I wanted, as I'm sure you noticed at my birthday party."

"Aye, love, I did notice. I wanted you to sail away with me that night."

Kissing him on the jaw, she moved out of his arms, back to what she had been working on. "It would be great if you could set up the outdoors, thank you." She told him smiling shyly.

On his way out the door, he pecked her on the cheek, "Oh, I'm sure I'll think of some worthwhile payment." After giving her a little love tap on her behind, he took Rumple and went outside.

She worked for a while finishing her sandwich and vegetable trays and dip. Once those were completed, she wrapped them and put them back in the refrigerator to keep cool, while she mixed the batter for the cupcakes she was making. Once those were baking, she looked out the window, watching Killian and Rumple down on the beach. They looked like they were having such a good time down there, she wished she could join them for a nice swim but duty called her to wrap the cute little gifts they had bought for the baby. After taking the cupcakes out of the oven, she took cold drinks down to the beach for her boys.

"Cold drinks?" she called as she walked down the path.

Both stopped and looked back at her before Rumple took off running in her direction, Killian not far behind. Setting the shallow bowl, she had brought for Rumple, on the sand, she looked back up as Killian pulled off his shirt, and handed him the cold bottle of water.

"Thanks, love," he said as he removed the cap and tilting his head back drank half the bottle before pouring the other half over his head. With the water droplets dripping, he stalked towards her, causing her to squeal and run inside, with his words reverberating in her head.

"You can't hide Swan. I will find you, I will always find you."

Once back inside, Emma completed the rest of the preparations for the party. The last thing on her list was to put chocolate frosting onto the cupcakes, and not wanting to mix it from scratch, she had purchased a couple of ready-made containers. Getting them out of the pantry, she delicately added frosting to each mini cake and then when that was done, sprinkled blue and pink decorations on the top. Covering those, she cleaned up the mess but couldn't help dipping her finger in the chocolate confection and sucking it off. It tasted so good, she did it again and again, groaning at the heavenly taste.

Killian had come in the front door after working outside and was on his way to the shower when he heard a sensuous moan coming from the kitchen. Curious as to what she was doing he walked down the hall to see and the site before him caused his blood to burn hotter than it had been while he was working outdoors. Emma was dipping her finger into the chocolate and sucking it off. Gods she was beautiful. Thinking maybe he wanted a lick too, he started toward her, just as she opened her eyes.

After five or six licks, she had just about decided that was enough when she opened her eyes to see shirtless Killian staring at her, face flushed, pupils wide, tongue in the corner of his mouth. What else could she do but dip her finger back in and swirl it around, before lifting it toward her tongue, which she stuck out and wrapped around her finger that was coated with the chocolate frosting? She watched as his breathing became shallower, and he licked his lips as if he were gazing at something he would die if he couldn't taste.

The little tease knew exactly how hot she was making him but he didn't care, he wanted a taste now. When he was within touching distance, he reached out and took her hand, putting her finger in his mouth, treating it to a sensuous demonstration of some of the talents of his tongue.

Once the confection was removed, he popped his lips, "You know, darling, I can think of quite a few places we could put that frosting and," he stopped and dipped his finger in the container, smearing it on her neck, just under her earlobe, "lick it off," he finished before doing just that to her neck. "Care to dine with me?"

When he had taken her finger and sucked on it, swirling his tongue around it, her knees had almost buckled, but when he had licked the frosting off her neck, she definitely had to clutch onto the counter or she would have been a puddle on the floor.

"Killian, what you do to me," she said before picking up the can to follow, when her phone rang, and not just any ring, but her sister's. With a disappointed tone, she moaned, "Sorry, rain check?"

"Definitely Swan, most definitely."

K&E

Killian stood talking to Liam, watching his Swan move from group to group, making sure everyone was taken care of. He couldn't believe how amazing she was, with putting together this party, after working all week. He also couldn't believe his piss poor luck with that phone call interrupting them, because damn, she made him hot. He caught her eye, as she knelt down to speak to Roland, and blew her a kiss, smirking when she got a little flustered.

"Down boy, there are children present," Liam remarked.

"Bloody hell, Liam. I'm not sixteen."

Liam laughed. "Of that, I am well aware. When are you going to marry that girl?"

Giving his brother a look out of the side of his eyes, he quipped. "When she asks."

Liam popped him in the stomach with the back of his hand, before he was ready causing his breath to escape. Rubbing his stomach, "Wanker, what was that for?"

"Oh bugger that, mum brought you up to be a romantic soul and you're waiting for her to propose?.

Killian looked toward Emma, then back at his brother and said quietly, "I would have married her months ago, but she wasn't ready. I told her to let me know. I can be patient," Liam snorted, "when I have to be. She's worth it. Besides, you waited for Elsa."

Liam looked for his wife, who was talking to Regina and holding little Rosie, "Aye little brother, that I did, and it was worth it. In fact, I think I am going to steal my wife for a short walk on the beach."

Letting the little brother comment go, Killian responded, "Is that ALL you're going to do on the walk, Liam?"

Liam winked as he walked away, "Hardly" he smirked.

Shaking his head at his brother's response, his eyes once again sought out his Swan and found her sitting next to her sister. Going into the house he picked up one of the cupcakes and stood where he was in her line of sight. Once he knew she was looking, he took his finger and ran it through the frosting, before sucking it off. Then walking over to her, he leaned in for a kiss, making sure he left a little chocolate behind. When he looked back, he was happy that he had gotten the response he had wanted, "Payback's a bitch, right Swan?"

Emma had to make a concentrated effort not to look at Killian since the party had started, as every time she did, she was immediately taken back to the kitchen. Thinking about what she could do with that chocolate was causing her to burn, and not because they were outside either. And then he dipped that finger in his cupcake frosting and used that oh so talented tongue to remove it, before kissing her senseless, well her lady parts were standing up, cheering loudly, and she had completely lost her train of thought. Fanning herself with the front of her shirt, trying to regroup, it took several tries before she heard M&M call her name.

"Emma, still?"

Looking at her sister a confused look on her face, "Still?"

M&M smiled, "Yes, still. Still butterflies. Still makes you hot. Still want to jump him whenever you're near him."

"Sis!" she whispered, and then giggled and answered in a sheepish way. "Guilty. Now can we please change the subject before I embarrass myself and pull him inside for a quickie?"

M&M rolled her eyes, "Sure, but when are you going to put that poor man out of his misery and marry him."

"I love him, but I guess I'm a little old-fashioned enough to wait for him to ask me.

"Wait a minute, didn't you tell me months ago, he was waiting for you to ask?"

Emma shrugged her shoulders, "Yes, but…"

Rolling her eyes, she responded. "Emma that man looks at you as if you are his sun, moon, and stars. If you haven't asked by August 1, then I'm asking him on your behalf."

"Geez, you can stop practicing your mom skills on me. August 1, got it."

They kept their distance from each other for the rest of the party and when it was time to go, Killian helped David load all of their loot as he termed it, and then stood with his arm wrapped around her, holding her snug against his side. As the last guest drove off, Killian turned them as one and they walked inside.

"I seem to remember some plans that were interrupted before the party. Care to continue them now?"

He covered her lips, in a kiss meant to leave no questions as to where this would end up. Running his hand up her silky leg, he could hear her breathing escalate, and feel her fingers dig into his behind. As the kissing continued he picked her up and moving down the hall, sat her on the bar where he pulled her shirt off and tossed it over his shoulder. This action offered up new treasures for him to touch and kiss, only stopping when she pushed his shirt up and over his head. Reaching around behind her for the can of frosting, he popped the top and scooped out some with his finger and rubbed it on her neck.

"Shall I?" he asked before leaning in and nibbling his way along the sugary coating, humming his appreciation of both the chocolate and the woman.

Climbing up next to her on the bar, he scooped out more frosting and ran his finger from the notch in her neck, down, following the path with his lips. "More Swan?"

"Oh, definitely more," she got out before he rubbed frosting along her lips and was sucking it off.

Sitting up, Killian climbed down off the bar and picking her up, carried her to their room. They experimented with the chocolate confection and dined on each other before showering together. It definitely turned out to be a wonderful way to end the evening.

K&E

The call they were waiting for came in the middle of the night, in the middle of July that M&M was in labor and they were on their way to the hospital. Emma jumped up with a shout and ran to get her clothes on. When she came out of the closet dressed, Killian was still lying in bed in such a way that she was really tempted to jump back in and have her way with him, but they would have time for that later, her niece or nephew would only be born once.

Leaning over and licking along the shell of his ear, she saw him open one eye, "I'm leaving in ten. Are you coming or not?" Then before he could snake his arm out and pull her back into bed, she scampered away. Killian tossed aside the blanket giving her an eyeful of his assets, before winking and going to get dressed.

Walking into Bayside General, they made their way to labor and delivery and M&M's room. She was sitting up in bed hooked up to an IV, blood pressure monitor and a fetal monitor, with a disgruntled look on her face and David, was standing over by the window, arms crossed. Emma looked at Killian to see if he had any idea, but he just shrugged his shoulders.

Walking up to her sister's bedside, out of habit she checked the monitors, then said, "Are we interrupting?"

M&M looked over at David, "No, your brother in law's just being stubborn. He still is insisting if it's a boy we should name it Sherlock, which is an awful name to pin to a baby.

"Hey," remarked David, "he was a great detective."

"Fictional" M&M chimed in.

"You want to name the baby Emily if it's a girl, after a writer," he said with a sneer.

"She was one of the greatest literary writers of her time," she got out before she grabbed Emma's hand to breathe through a contraction.

David switched places with Emma once the contraction had passed and the couples talked about the nursery, which Kilian had helped David paint until the doctor came in to give M&M her epidural.

Emma had never realized how uncomfortable the seats were in a hospital waiting room until she was actually waiting, but somehow Killian looked completely relaxed on the sofa. Leaning back, arm along the edge, one leg crossed over the other knee, and dark hair looking like he had just rolled out of bed, made her think of the last scene of him in their bed this morning, making her long to be back there. The early morning, combined with long days of work in the past week, were catching up, which was why she was moving. Stop, and she knew she'd fall asleep.

Sitting in the waiting room with Emma, Killian couldn't help but think about the possibility of Emma being the one in that bed, about to give birth to their child. He didn't want to rush her, but seeing how maternal she had been with her sister, made him long to experience that with her. Periodically, their eyes would meet across the room and he could feel her tension, continually amazed at how in tuned they were with each other, and he wondered if she had changed her mind about marriage.

Currently, though, he needed to get his Swan to sit down before she fell down. Standing, he walked to her and took her in his arms. She immediately snuggled into his chest, allowing him to take some of her weight. "Come, love, let me hold you."

Sitting back down, he brought her onto his lap, and pulled her head onto his shoulder. "Sleep. I've got you."

Emma tucked her head into her spot, the bend between Killian's shoulder and neck, and nuzzled his jaw. "I love you, you know that right?"

Leaning his head into hers and tightening his arms around her, Killian hummed in agreement, "Aye, Swan. I know, and I love you. Now sleep". Feeling her relax into sleep, he allowed his eyes to close for a brief moment, savoring the feeling of having the woman he loved in his arms.

David woke Killian three hours later to announce that Emily Ruth had arrived and would be available for visitors shortly. Killian woke Emma and as they walked down the hall, kept his arm wrapped around her, holding her close. When they walked into the room, M&M was sitting in bed looking tired but happy, holding a small bundle with a little pink hat on her head. Someday, he thought, as Emma stepped away from him to go to her sister's side.

Looking down at the tiny scrunched up face, Emma was in awe of the beauty of the creation of life. She reached out and ran her finger lightly along the downy soft cheek. Looking up at her sister, both their eyes swimming in tears. "Congratulations, mama. You did good." She grinned.

"Thank,s sis, would you like to meet your new niece," she asked holding the baby out toward Emma.

Smiling Emma reached for the baby, "Thought you'd never ask."

Taking the small bundle, she tucked her close and looked for a place to sit. Killian, sitting in the chair closest to the bed, had the most tender look in his eyes, which drew her to him. He sat up straight and she settled on his lap, bundle still snug in her arms. Together they leaned in, examining the newborn, even moving aside the blanket, to count the little toes and fingers. Whether from the cooler air or recognizing she wasn't being held by the same person, Emily opened her eyes and looked up at her and the first thing that Emma thought was, I want this. Turning her head to look at Killian, their eyes met and it was as if they were alone in the room. No other sounds could be heard but hisbreathing and it was as if she could hear what he was thinking. Yes, I will. Ask me.

Killian watched Emma take the baby and turn to look his way and his heart practically turned over in his chest. Their eyes met and he waited, hoped she would come to him. When she sat on his knee and they explored the little human with her petal soft skin, her little pink cheeks, and her bow shape mouth, he had to swallow several times to remove the giant lump in his throat. And then when Emily opened her eyes and looked up at his Swan, and then Emma's eyes met his, time stood still.

You are my future, will you marry me, he thought, will you take the next step with me?

Then as if she had opened her mouth and answered out loud, he heard her response, his heart took flight. Gently so as not to disturb the sleeping cherub, he kissed his true love, and then followed her as she settled the baby back with the new parents. After kissing M&M on the cheek and shaking David's hand, he took his Swan home to bed.

No words were spoken as they walked into the house and immediately turned toward their bedroom. Killian stopped her at the door, taking her lips in a heated kiss, his hands busy touching and caressing everywhere he could reach. Releasing her lips, he pulled her shirt off and followed her to the bed, where she lay down on her side watching him. Toeing off his shoes, he followed her down, capturing her lips with his, loving her with all of his body, as he loved her with all of his heart.

K&E

Emma had been working long days and spending time with her sister and baby Emily and hadn't seen much of Killian or Rumple lately, which was why she was in a hurry to get inside. Opening the door to the house, she expected to hear the clicking of Rumple's nails as he greeted, but there was no dog to greet her. She dropped her things on a table as she walked into the kitchen and called out Killian's name but there was no answer. His truck was parked out front so she knew he was home and probably down on the beach. Emma went into their room and changed out of her scrubs into shorts and a tank and walked down toward the path that led to the beach.

Rumple was waiting for her, half way down, and when she tried to walk around him he refused to move. Patting her leg, she called, "Come on boy, let's go," but still he sat still.

That's curious, she thought. Bending closer to make sure he was ok, he lifted his paw, like he did when shaking for a treat, and when she reached down she saw a piece of paper attached.

"What the…?"

Emma smiled to herself wondering what Killian was using courier Rumple for that he couldn't send in a text or tell her. She removed the paper and opened it. What she read made her heart race and tears form in her eyes. His letter said;

"I love you. Marry me?"

"Yes!" she shouted out loud. Then as her feet took off the rest of the way, she continued to chant "yes, yes, yes" over and over again, until she saw him standing by a group of cushions next to a low table. Hesitating just a split second, she watched the smile cross his face and taking off again, she ran right into his arms, and showered kisses all over his beautiful face, repeating her answer until his smile was so large, the tiny lines at the sides of his eyes crinkled.

Killian saw her running and readied to catch her, laughing at the way she was kissing anywhere she could reach, while chanting the only answer he had wanted to hear. "Yes, you'll marry me?"

"Did you have any doubt?"

Tugging at his ear, he replied. "Well, Swan, I did tell you, I would let you set the pace. But then I saw you with Emily and I just knew it was time. I love you."

He leaned in and gave her another kiss, "How long are you going to make me wait? Next week?" he asked a hopeful tone in his voice.

Emma giggled at his eagerness, "That would work for me but I don't think M&M would be happy."

She pulled her phone out of her back pocket and looked at the calendar.

"How about Sept 25, here, on the beach?"

Pretending to think about it, he didn't say anything, until she pinched his stomach. Then he smiled down at her, "I'll be here." and picking her up, his lips covered hers in a kiss that went on and on.

Stay tuned for the epilogue