Offering You Freedom

Killian found himself dressed in familiar garbs. He had to blend in with the crowd so his plan could work. He needed to find her. He charmed several ladies until one of them revealed the bride-to-be's whereabouts.

He barged into the room and there she stood amidst broken glass. Terror ripped through him. Did she harm herself?

"Regina," he said calmly. She snapped her head in his direction. Her face mirrored confusion.

"Killian...what are you doing here? How did you get in here?"

"I came as soon as I heard about your impendng marriage. I came to take you away from here. I know you don't want this. We can leave right now," he urged. "Run away with me."

She stood there shocked. This was her chance to escape but she already failed once. She couldn't get her hopes up.

"We aren't children anymore Killian. I can't just run off and go on adventures with you. Those dreams we had are just that...dreams."

He closed the door. "Regina, I'm trying to help you. I owe you and...and Daniel."

"It should be him," she said. "Not the king."

"I know. I should be standing next to my best friends watching them head into marital bliss. I couldn't save Daniel but I can save you." He grabbed her hands. "Just run with me. What do you have to lose?"

"The King could go after you," she said afraid.

He scoffed. "Let him. I'll protect you. A man fights for what he wants to protect. Now what's your answer?"

"Okay," she said. They quickly ran through the halls trying to stay undetected. Once they were outside the palace gates, Killian took a horse and helped Regina get on. He rode as fast as possible until they reached their destination.

Regina eyed the boat docked in front of them. "Where did this come from?"

"I procured it in a bet," he answered. She eyed him but he ignored it. "Come on," he said. He led her to the captain's quarters. "There are some clothes I bought for you. We will leave shortly."

He turned towards the door.

"Thank you Killian," she blurted.

He winked at her. "I was glad to give you something."

She eventually came out of the quarters. She went to where he was and just stood there overlooking the boat.

"How long have you had this?" she questioned.

"A year," he said. He paused for a bit. "What happened to him? I came to visit the both of you and all I got was the lad is dead."

"My mother killed him so I would marry the king," she answered coldly. Her voice softened. "He loved you like a brother and so did I. Neither one of us will ever see him again."

He grip tightened around the steer. "Where's Cora now?"

"Somewhere. I pushed her into a mirror. I-

"Good," he interrupted. He glanced over. There was a mixture of sadness and relief. "She's your mother and I get it. You love her but she has cost you too much already."

She said nothing so he continued talking. "If I had known, I would have done something."

"Then I would lose two people I love. I don't think my heart could take the pain. You came when you needed to."

"Still-

"I know Killian," she said softly. "You're in pain just as much as I am but I'm hoping I can move on one day."

"You will one day. For now, we are all each other has."

She chuckled. "Think you can handle me captain?"

"I can my queen," he replied.