Author's note: Fair warning, this chapter ends on bit of a cliffhanger. Not really sorry, since this was my plan all along. ;) But near fear I am starting work on the next chapter right after I post this. Might not be done before the new episode tomorrow, but definitely next week. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: I am not the evil duo known as Kitowitz. ;)

Chapter 12

"Hey, you okay?"

Killian tore his attention from the evening traffic. "Aye."

Emma didn't look convinced. "You looked far away."

"I was just thinking."

"Not having second thoughts, are you?" He knew she was teasing, but he still detected just a hint of fear and worry in her tone. He wondered if that would ever go away, that she would accept his utter love and devotion as a matter of course.

Killian took her hand, resting it on the gear shift. "About meeting more of your friends? Of course not, love."

Less than twenty four hours left before D Day, as Emma was calling it, and they were having a small dinner with Elsa, Will and Elsa's sister and her beau. Her parents would be arriving soon, but had insisted that Emma not come to meet them at the airport. As the ball approached, Killian was forcefully reminded that there was a entire aspect of Emma that he didn't really know. Elsa was the only friend or family he had met so far. Emma had spent the entire summer inserting herself into his life; he didn't quite know if he would fit into hers.

"You're not nervous?"

"Are you?"

"No! I want to introduce you to everyone. In fact, I'll be happy when this summer's over and we don't have to sneak around anymore."

He grinned at her. "I've been thinking much the same, sweetheart."

Emma squeezed his fingers. "As soon as this ball thing is over, we're looking for our own place. I promise. If you're not too busy, that is."

"I'm nearly finished. All I need is the readings for August, then I can wrap the whole thing up." It was a wonder what he could accomplish when he really applied himself. Not that Killian hadn't been working hard before. But settling into a life with Emma had given him the motivation he needed to finish. He had most of his thesis drafted, he simply needed those final sets of readings to verify his findings. Dr. Teach told him not two days ago that there shouldn't be any problem with him graduating in December.

Emma turned into the entrance to The Crocodile. "Really?

"Really. It's a wonder what you can accomplish with the proper incentive, Swan."

Emma raised a brow at him. "Incentive?"

"Why, spending more time with my gorgeous love, of course."

She tried to look stern, but he saw her blushing. "You don't get enough of that now?"

"I could never get enough of you, Emma." It had been that way since he met her.

"I guess we'll see about that." They pulled into Emma's bungalow a few minutes later, back by the rear entrance, just in case. Emma looped her arm through his as they headed for the back door. She rapped once on the door then opened it with her keycard. "Elsa?"

"Emma!"

But it wasn't Elsa. The woman who came bounding in their direction was a little shorter than the tall and slender Elsa. And this woman had ginger hair. Killian only caught a brief glimpse of her face before she enveloped Emma in a tight hug, but he could only assume this was Elsa's younger sister, Anna.

"Hey, Anna," Emma said, a bit breathless from Anna's hug. "It's good to see you."

"When Elsa told me you'd come all the way out here, I didn't know what to think," Anna said in a rush. "But you look good, Emma."

Emma released her friend. "Yeah, it definitely seems to be agreeing with me," she replied with a smile. "Anna, I'd like you to meet..."

Anna's blue eyes lit up. "Oh! You must be Killian!" she said excitedly.

Killian held out his hand. "Aye. Hello, lass."

Anna took his hand, shaking it vigorously. She had a stronger grip than he expected for such a tiny lass. "Oh, and he's got an accent." Anna whispered to Emma. "Nice! I figured he did since he's friends with Will."

"So you've met Will already?" Emma asked, looking around.

"Oh yeah. He and Kristoff are watching some action movie on the pay per view."

"You left him with Kristoff?"

"Well, yeah," Anna said as if it were the most natural thing in the world. "We're all gonna be family of sorts, right?"

Killian could tell by Emma's deep blush that she hadn't quite considered that. Elsa and Anna were probably the closest things she had to sisters of her own. If the ladies' relationships worked out then, he'd probably be seeing a lot of more them. Anna didn't seem to doubt this scenario for a second. He liked her optimism.

"Well, if you don't need me to do anything, lass, I think I might join them," Killian said, looking from Emma to Anna. He thought Emma would like the time to catch up with her friend.

Emma glanced at Anna, then nodded. "Okay. I'll see you in a little bit." She leaned in and gave him a swift kiss, then whispered her thanks in his ear. He squeezed her hand, then slipped off toward the living room.

Just before he got out of earshot, he heard Anna squeal. "He's definitely a keeper, Emma. Well done, you!"

Killian smothered a laugh. Anna was very different from Elsa, but he liked her just as much.

"Took you long enough, Jones."

Killian raised a brow at his friend, sitting on the couch, actually wearing something other than jeans and a t-shirt. Elsa's doing, no doubt. "Look who actually took a bath. Did Christmas come early?"

"Bugger off." Will and a huge boulder of a man—this had to be Kristoff—sat at opposite ends of the couch, facing the telly. Killian plopped down between them. "This here is Killian," Will said to Kristoff. "He's not as charming as meself, sadly."

Killian rolled his eyes. "Kristoff, I presume?"

"Yeah. Hello." The blonde man held out his huge hand and Killian shook it. "You two are friends?"

"Mostly," Killian said. "When he's not being an utter wanker."

"Oi! Who punched me in a face? Not once but twice?"

"You insulted Emma," Killian reminded him. "You had it coming."

Kristoff sniggered. "You probably got off lucky then," he said to Will.

Will harrumphed; the other two ignored him. "Emma tells me you play hockey?" Killian said.

Kristoff grinned. "Yeah. Rangers. It's how I met Anna actually."

Will perked up. "Rangers? Aren't they the blokes who won that...what's it called? Lord Stanley's Chalice or somethin'?"

"Cup," Kristoff corrected. Frankly, Killian was surprised Will knew that much. Elsa again? "And yeah, we did."

Killian was impressed. "Well, congratulations, mate! I've only ever played football myself."

"So do I," Kristoff said. "Had to do something during the couple of months the fjords weren't frozen."

"Maybe we should have a friendly game," Killian suggested. "I bet Robin would play too." He was surprised at how much the idea appealed to him. He hadn't played since Liam's death. Hadn't wanted too. But as they say, life goes on. This was the first time in years he didn't feel guilty about that.

Will looked surprised, but agreed. "Yeah, sounds interestin'."

"What sounds interesting?" Anna asked. She had some beers in her hands; Kristoff and Killian accepted their gratefully.

"We were talking about playing a friendly game of football," Kristoff told her. "I bet I could get some of the guys to play."

"Football?" She looked dubiously at Will and Killian. "Um, wouldn't you like crush them or something?"

Killian laughed, but Will rolled his eyes. "Soccer, lass," Killian said. "Not American football." Killian had never played that, only watched. He understood it, but he liked his football better.

"Oh!" Anna said brightly. "That makes so much more sense!" Then she looked a bit horrified. "Not that I don't think you guys couldn't...or that you'd get squished...oh never mind. Dinner will be ready soon!" She hurried off to much chuckling.

"She always that flighty, mate?" Will asked Kristoff.

Killian rounded on him. "What it is with you and insulting people's girlfriends, Scarlet?"

"Oi! I didn't!"

"Anna is...something else," Kristoff replied, not insulted at all it seemed. "She tends to babble and speak before she thinks. But she means well."

"Sounds like you, mate," Killian said, elbowing Will. "No wonder Elsa can tolerate you."

"Speaking of," Kristoff said with a grin. "How did you all meet anyway? Anna's only told me bits and pieces."

Killian took a long pull from his beer and started the tale. Kristoff listened—Will did too—his eyes awash in understanding. He laughed his low rumbling laugh at the funnier bits; indeed, hearing the story out loud, Killian was reminded of how absurd it all was. The apple, the coffee, his own stupidity nearly ruining everything. He and Emma should not have met and yet they did. They did and felt this connection, bringing them together, over and over again.

If that wasn't fate, then Killian wasn't sure what was. He was becoming certain that even if he lived a million lifetimes, he'd find Emma in all of them. She was his beacon, a siren, calling him home.

"Well, it's not me you have to win over," Kristoff said finally. "Anna's like a mama bear, making sure the people she loves are happy." All three men looked over the back of the couch to the kitchen where Emma, Anna and Elsa were laughing quietly. Killian was struck by how close they were. He would never want to get in the way of that.

"You know, we're hopelessly outclassed here, gents," Will said quietly.

Killian nodded. To his surprise, Kristoff did too. "They chose us," Killian said. "Let's not muck it up if we can help it, yeah?"

All three of them clinked their bottles together in a silent toast, then headed for the kitchen, where their ladies awaited them.

Emma slept fitfully that night. She was usually calm, allowing him to hold her or spoon up behind her, but she kept tossing and turning, beating her pillow with her hand. Killian knew she was nervous. All he had to do was show up and not make a fool of himself in front of her parents. Emma had to play hostess, speak intelligently and confidently about her project and win people over. He knew she could do it, but she had doubts. She never voiced them, but he knew her too well. On the rare occasions the stress—or Regina's constant complaining—got to her, he'd kiss her, then massage her worries away with his hands, a process that all too often ended with them naked and panting. He didn't do it for that, but if she needed him, then he wasn't going to deny her.

He'd never deny her anything.

She fell asleep at last around one in the morning and Killian followed, sinking into a deep slumber, cradling her hand in his. He dreamt of her, as he did so often now, those captivating green eyes, the silken tresses falling between his fingers, the dress she'd worn on their date in Honolulu, clinging to every perfect curve. Most of all he dreamed of how her lips felt on his, soft and pliant, sweet. Warm and loving or deep and demanding, he lived for her kiss. She chased away the nightmares and the loneliness he'd lived with for so long.

He rose slowly from the depths of his subconscious, reaching for Emma. His hand fell on cold sheets.

But the sheets were the only thing that felt cold. Warm lips brushed over his chest, down along his ribcage. Killian wrenched his eyes open to find Emma leaning over him, hair spilling around her face, kissing and caressing his body.

It was a riveting sight.

"Emma?" he mumbled, voice thick with sleep. He didn't know what time it was, only that some sun peaked through the window.

"Shhh," she replied, kissing his sternum. "It's early."

"Swan..." His head sank back into the pillow, groaning, when her hand brushed his erection. Clearly his dreams had been stronger than he thought.

"Were you dreaming about me?"

She kissed and licked at his navel, making him hiss softly in pleasure. "Aye."

"No one else?"

Was she mad? He hadn't so much as looked at another woman since he met her. "Only you, love."

"It was a good dream?" she said, a bit mischievous.

"Not as good as this," he sighed, trying to rock into her touch. He loved waking up like this, with them both aching and wanting. And on this day, it might be their only chance. Emma let him go long enough to remove the shirt she was wearing. His mouth went dry at the rosy pink nipples, already standing at attention. "Cold?"

Emma shook her head. "Hungry." She picked up one of his hands and brought it to her chest, sighing as he touched her. "I want to remember this today," she said, licking her lips. "When things get crazy I want to remember you touching me."

Killian growled, tugging on her wrist until she was flat against his chest. He kissed her, deeply, hands smoothing over her skin. Emma mewled into the kiss, a hand coming up to cradle his face. Killian rolled them over, pressing her into the mattress, settling into the cradle of her thighs. He made no move to take her—indeed he still had his boxers on—right now all he wanted was to make her feel.

He grabbed her wrists in his hand, holding them above her head. Emma looked at him with wide eyes, no longer sleepy, but burning. He circled his hips the way he knew she she liked, grinding his cock into her heat until they were both groaning.

"Is this what you wanted, love?" he asked, lips dancing over her jaw. "Do you feel what you do to me?"

Emma rolled her hips up, trying to get as much friction as she could through their clothes. "Yes! Don't stop."

Killian kicked the remaining covers away, wanting his attention focused solely on the woman in front of him. "Don't move your hands," he warned, voice low and growling. Emma nodded, fingers fumbling for the rungs of the headboard. Killian hummed approvingly. "There's my good girl." He kissed her again, stroking her tongue with his, hands skimming along her sides. He left a trail of wet kisses down her neck and chest, wishing fleetingly that he could mark her.

It could wait until after the ball.

He thumbed her straining nipples, kneading the heavy mounds, relishing Emma's sighs of pleasure. He kissed one then the other, his day old scruff scratching her pale skin. Killian pushed her breasts together, tongue darting out to lick her. He flicked his tongue between the hard peaks, sucking one, then the other, back and forth until she was writhing, hips grinding against him frantically. He could feel the dampness against his stomach, the crotch of her panties completely soaked through.

"Killian," Emma panted, knuckles white. "Please."

"Please what?" he asked, kissing further down her torso, one hand slipping between her thighs.

"I..." She blew a stray hair out of her face. "Fuck, I want to come!"

He was tempted to just rip her panties, shove his boxers down and just fuck her until they couldn't see straight, but he wasn't ready to give her up for the day just yet. He teased the edge of her lace panties with his fingers, along the top of her thigh, down to where she was wet for him. He ducked his head, inhaling her scent, his cock twitching in response.

Killian pushed the wet cloth aside and slide a single finger inside her. Emma moaned, rocking wantonly against him. "Hmm, you like this, don't you, Swan? Riding my fingers, feeling me inside you."

"More," she hissed. "God, I need more."

Killian kissed her stomach. "You'll get it, love." He added a second long finger, her walls contracting around them, making him wish it was his cock instead. It felt so good when she squeezed him. He went slow, watching her face carefully. Her legs started to tremble, the pressure mounting, her breathing coming in short gasps.

She was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen.

Killian picked up his pace, seeking out the spot that would make her scream. When she shuddered, he knew he'd found it and he latched onto her clit with his mouth, sucking it between his teeth eagerly. Emma cried out, walls beginning to flutter, and he did it again, remembering how much she enjoyed it. The wood of the headboard groaned in her grip, her body convulsing as she came with a sharp cry, eyes screwed shut. Killian brought her down, nice and easy, even though his own need burned in his veins.

"Feel better, darling?" he asked, a smug grin on his lips. Making her fall apart for him was one of his favorite pastimes.

Her eyes fluttered open and she let go of the headboard. "No."

"No? What else do you want?"

She moved faster than he'd have thought, given the fact that she was still catching her breath. Using one of those mixed martial arts moves, she had him on his back in a moment. With his wrists pinned above his head. "I want your cock inside me," she said, lips hot against his ear. She drew the lobe between her teeth, biting down. A jolt of desire shot through him, his cock aching.

"Take what you want, princess," he replied, hissing in pleasure. "I'll not stop you."

Emma smiled, then kissed him, releasing his wrists. True to his word, he didn't move, merely let her remove his last stitch of clothing, then hers. He cursed when she took him into her hand, stroking firmly, thumb swiping the head. He let her toy with him, even though it went against all his instincts. He got far more enjoyment from watching her touch him. She bent her head again, tongue licking his hipbone. She scrapped her teeth over his skin, sucking and biting until there was a nice red mark on his hip.

"Mine," she whispered, green eyes seeking out his and locking. His heart ached, wondering if she ever really thought he could belong to another.

"Yours," he said, biting his lip. "All yours, Emma."

She smiled, still stroking him, Killian's hips rocking upwards, chasing her touch. Then she was straddling his hips, rubbing her wet folds over his length, a long low moan tearing from her throat.

"Emma." She looked so lost in pleasure, he was loathe to stop her, but if she didn't fuck him soon he was going to lose his mind.

She braced one hand on his chest and lined him up, sinking down with one smooth roll of her hips. They both cursed, the feeling of her stretching to take him so good he nearly saw stars. He prayed he never got used to this feeling, the way they fit together. Emma didn't waste time, bouncing in his lap, using his body for her pleasure. He couldn't help himself; he ran his hands up along her thighs, feeling the muscles flex under his touch. Emma reached for his hands, threading them with hers as she rode him, faster and faster. Killian started to buck his hips up under her, planting his feet on the bed for leverage.

Emma cried out as he hit her deeper, skin covered in a thin sheen of sweat. She leaned over him, hands still entwined, hips circling as she impaled herself over and over again. "Close," she bit out, drawing his hands behind her back. Killian held her to him, desperately trying to hold off on his own release. "So fucking close."

His hands slid down her spine, molding to the curve of her ass. "Let go," he growled, one hand spanking her.

"Fuck!" Encouraged, Killian swatted her ass again, feeling her getting wetter around him. Emma fisted the sheets in her hands, bracing herself, mewling loudly. She screamed his name as she fell a second time, walls squeezing, easily sparking his own release. Killian grunted, hips rutting into hers, pleasure coursing through him as he spilled himself inside her.

Emma didn't have to collapse on him because she was already there. Killian kissed her damp brow, murmuring how much he loved her into her skin. She seemed spent, almost boneless in his arms. Gently, he rolled them onto their sides, pulling up the lightest covers. Emma snuggled into him, tucking her head under his chin. He was fairly certain she dozed, but he wasn't tired anymore. He just held her until they had to wake up.

This was arguably the most important day of his life and he didn't want to miss a second.

When the alarm went off, Emma groaned. "Ugh."

Killian swiped at her phone for her, fingers combing through her hair. "Time to rise and shine, sweetheart. Again."

"Why'd you let me sleep?"

"Because despite our very enjoyable activities, you needed it. It's a big day."

Emma rested her head on his chest. "I had a dream. Before, I mean." She paused, fingers drawing patterns on his stomach. "I guess I just needed you."

"Did I complain, lass? I rather enjoyed myself."

"Well, you've certainly woken me up enough times."

"Do you wish me to desist?"

"No!" She raised her head, peering up at him. "I like it. I love everything about us."

He stroked her cheek. "As do I. Think we're ready to show the world that, love?"

She brought his palm to her lips and kissed it. "Yeah, I do."

"Let's just avoid Regina, yeah?"

She grinned. "No problems here." The fact that Emma wanted to show him off to her New York acquaintances, that she wasn't ashamed of him, meant the world to him. And while things would be hampered a bit by the masks, there was no place he'd rather be.

Reluctantly, they got up. Emma slipped on her shirt, heading for the kitchen to make coffee while Killian showered. They didn't want to risk getting caught up in each other again. As soon as he was finished, she jumped in and he made breakfast. He had to work most of the day; Robin wanted as much finished by the A team as possible, since Killian would be attending the ball. Robin had even helped design Killian's mask, making him all but unrecognizable except to people who knew him well.

"Have everything, Swan?" Killian asked as he grabbed his keys. They were driving to The Crocodile separately; this would be the last time they saw each other until the ball.

She hefted a rather large bag; Killian wasn't sure what was in it. Feminine things most likely. "Yep. My dress is at Elsa's."

"I still think you should have modeled it for me," he teased.

"Then it might have gotten ruined before the ball."

"I thought you trusted me, Swan."

Emma came to stand in front of him. "Oh, I do. But I know those wandering hands of yours, babe."

Killian rested his hands on her hips, thumbs slipping under the hem of her t-shirt. "What wandering? I'm afraid I don't know what you mean."

Emma stepped even closer, her pupils dilating just a bit. Her arms came around his neck, lips hovering over his. "Wandering hands, lips. Maybe I don't trust myself." Then she kissed him, long and slow, until they needed air.

"I will miss you today."

"Me too. We'll find each other. Just look for the woman in red, okay?"

Killian smiled. "I can do that." They kissed again, all too briefly for his taste, then left.

The garage looked like a cyclone had hit it when Killian arrived. Patches of oil littered the floor; one of the new guys was trying to mop it up. Tools were everywhere and Robin was nowhere to be found. Killian spent his first hour trying to take stock and put things away. They were supposed to have the resort's fleet of cars ready to start picking people up by five o'clock. The ball didn't start until eight, but Regina was taking no chances. Most of them were already done, sitting in the back lot, row after row.

"Killian!" Robin cried. "There you are."

"Been here for hours, mate. What happened?"

"Regina has been...tetchy," he said, then sighed. "There might have been a bit of a tantrum. I explained to her that the limo would be ready by four, but that wasn't enough apparently."

The limo in question was for their collective boss, Robert Gold. It was the only one The Crocodile had and it was rarely used. Killian had been fighting the urge to clog up its fuel injection, just to spite the man. But he was better than that.

Still, the very idea that that man and his bastard of a son were here was enough to put him on edge. As long as Neal stayed away from Emma, Killian would leave him alone.

"It's not like Gold's driving here from Alaska," Killian said to Robin. "Why the rush?"

"She wants to give him a tour...with me as their driver."

"Better you than me, mate." He threw his dirty rag aside. "How about we let the newbs finish washing the bleeding cars and you and I will get this limo sorted?"

Robin nodded gratefully, then headed out to issue the necessary instructions. Killian pulled the limo into the garage and was already vacuuming out the inside by the time Robin came back. They worked side by side for the next hour and a half, cleaning, tuning, polishing. The damn thing gleamed by the time they were finished. It ran much better too, a tune up and some clean filters doing wonders.

Robin left Killian to clean up, taking the limo for a full tank of gas. Only a little while longer and he'd be free to start getting ready. He was going to need it, judging by the state of his greasy hands. Killian moved to the sink to wash, wondering what it would be like when he didn't have to fix cars to make a living. He enjoyed it, but he was more certain than ever his passion lay elsewhere.

"Well, well, well," a voice drawled from behind him. "Can't say I expected to see you here."

Killian turned and froze, hoping his face didn't give away his shock.

Neal stood in front of him, looking deeply smug. Which meant he'd totally expected to find Killian here. How the hell had he found out? Perhaps he wasn't as lazy as Emma thought.

"Is there something I can help you with?" Killian kept his voice even, even though his heart was racing.

Neal's smile got wider, clearly enjoying himself. "We've met before. I don't think we were formally introduced."

Killian knew there was no point in lying. Neal clearly knew the secret he and Emma had tried to hide. "Well, there was hardly time with Emma tossing you out on your overbearing arse."

Neal's smile faltered a bit, but he held out his hand. "Neal Gold."

Killian did not take his hand. "Killian Jones. Do you have something to say or can I get back to work?"

"How long have you worked here?"

"Why are you asking questions that you clearly know the answer to?"

Neal shrugged. "Curiosity? Wondering why someone like you would jeopardize so much for..." Neal laughed. "Let's be honest, not really anything that special anyway."

Killian's jaw clenched at the insult to Emma. He needed to remain calm. "If Emma means so little to you, then why in the blazes are you doing so much to ruin this for her? Why can't you just leave her alone?"

Neal's expression turned sour. "Because she humiliated me, moron. Thinks she's so much better than everyone else."

Killian laughed. "If you knew her at all, you'd know that's not true."

Neal picked up a wrench, turning it over in his hands. "She was supposed to be mine," he said in a quiet dangerous voice. "But she ruined it."

Killian shook his head. "No, from what I understand, you did that all by yourself. She deserves better than the likes of you."

"Oh, like you?"

Killian drew himself up; he wasn't going to be intimidated by Neal's attitude. "Doesn't matter what I think. Her opinion is the only one that matters."

"What makes you better than me? Huh? You're just a mechanic!" Neal was getting angry now, his ears red.

"I don't treat like her like a fucking trophy to be ordered about!"

"Is that what she told you? What a fucking joke. That bitch is more..." He never got out whatever it was he was going to say, because Killian's fist came into direct contact with Neal's jaw. He followed it with a punch to the stomach, just for good measure.

"If you ever insult her like that again," he snarled, seeing red. "You'll have a lot more to deal with than a sore jaw."

"You're fucking crazy," Neal snapped, holding his jaw. "Just like her." He stepped back before Killian could come at him again. "But I know your dirty little secret, asshole. Flagrantly breaking the rules. Assault. If you show up at that ball, I will make your life a living hell. Count on it."

One last hateful glance and Neal spun on his heel and left. Killian was still breathing hard, still furious. How dare that bastard? All this to get back at Emma? How could he hate her that much? Or did he just enjoy belittling others and watching them squirm? That seemed much more his speed. Was he all talk? The asshole was rich, or rather his father was. Rich and powerful.

Once Killian's breathing evened out, he dug out his phone, trying to call Emma. But it went straight to voicemail. He nearly screamed in frustration when he remembered she had turned her phone off, not wanting the distraction. Should he go find her? It was nearly time for him to go get ready. As soon as Robin returned, Killian was supposed to take off. He wanted so badly to be there for Emma. Perhaps he shouldn't have lost his temper and hit the jerk.

Who was he kidding? Neal had come there to threaten him no matter what. The entire point had been to try and intimidate him and get him to abandon Emma. Which Killian absolutely refused to do.

He was going to that ball, come hell or high water.

What was the worst that could happen? A lost job? He wouldn't need it in two weeks anyway. Then he'd go back to school, finish his degree and if everything went well this evening, he'd start a real job right after.

So the hell with Neal Gold. Killian was going to show up at that ball, enjoy the night with his Swan. They'd come too far to let that wanker ruin their lives.

Killian left a message on Emma's phone—just in case—then as soon as Robin got back, he headed home. He had a ball to prepare for.

"Emma, you look wonderful," Elsa enthused, staring at them in the mirror.

Emma cocked her head, examining her own reflection. "You don't think it's too...I don't know...poofy?"

Elsa looked stern. "You're supposed to be a princess."

Emma laughed. "Killian always calls me that."

"I'm sure he says it with the utmost affection."

Emma looked away, a faint blush staining her cheeks. The truth was he tended to use it in very filthy ways, as a distinct counterpoint to whatever he was doing to her at the time. It never failed to make her body burn with want.

But she would never tell Elsa that.

"Well, I can breathe...mostly," Emma said instead, twitching her hips, trying to adjust the corset she wore. She had a feeling Killian would very much be a fan of her undergarments; he loved when she dressed up for him. Mostly because he got to then strip them off her.

"I told you it wouldn't be that bad," Elsa replied, adjusting the bodice of her own gown. It was more modern than Emma's, a light almost icy blue, a bit slinky with a slit up the side. When Emma asked what she was supposed to be, Elsa mumbled something about an ice queen.

"Yours is built in," Emma complained, smoothing the skirt down once more. The dress really was perfect for the fairy tale like setting, but she still felt self conscious. It would be better when she found Killian, dressed as he was. Her own personal Prince.

"But yours has actual sleeves," Elsa pointed out. "It's chilly in that ballroom."

"That's just because it's empty. It'll be hot later."

"That won't be the only thing that's hot," Elsa shot back, her elegant brow arched.

"Elsa! Did you just inadvertently hit on my boyfriend? Who's not even here?"

Elsa rolled her eyes. "I'm not blind, Emma. Killian's very attractive. You two can hardly keep your hands off each other!" She put a hand on Emma's arm. "And I already have my date, remember? I just hope you two will make it to the end of the night!"

Emma thought about that morning, how she'd woken up aching for him. She could still feel those large calloused hands on her skin, making her burn. But surely, they could control themselves. They knew how important this was.

"If you see us trying to sneak off...well I guess you'll just have to stop us," Emma said matter of factly. "I'm making that your best friend duty for the night."

"I'm honored," Elsa said, sarcasm dripping from her voice. Being around Will had obviously rubbed off on her. "Ready to go?"

Emma took one last look into the mirror. "Yeah."

The car showed up five minutes later; Will (who looked rather handsome himself, dressed like the Knave of Hearts), Elsa and Emma piled in, Emma needing to gather her skirts. Elsa and Will were holding hands, faint but almost giddy smiles on their faces. Emma was happy for them. It was nice to see her friend so happy after so much heartbreak. And Will was Killian's friend; maybe Anna was right, they could all be family one day.

Emma was the first out of the car, looking around surreptitiously for Killian. He didn't seem to be there yet. She put her mask in place and headed inside, thinking perhaps she could do one final check that everything was ready.

She needn't have bothered. The ballroom looked incredible; the crystal chandeliers polished, walls freshly painted. Large seashell displays covered in flowers. Tertiaries shaped like fish at strategic intervals. In one corner there was a display with a large map of Hawaii, describing the various reserves and their missions.

It looked like an underwater paradise.

"I hope everything is up to your specifications," came Regina's voice from behind her.

Emma couldn't contain her relief. "It's amazing, Regina. Your staff did a fantastic job."

"Thank you. I hope the evening goes as well as you hope," the older woman replied stiffly.

Emma nodded, then moved off, people watching mostly. There weren't that many people in the ballroom yet; Emma thought it best to be one of the first since she was the hostess. She saw Gold and Neal—the idiot kept rubbing his jaw, God only knew why—almost right away and studiously avoided them like the plague. She did not want to talk to either of them unless she absolutely had to and certainly not first thing. Instead, she ran through facts and figures in her head, hoping no one asked her anything to overly science-y. But that was what she had Killian for, right? He was the scientist and a damn good one.

Speaking of, where the hell was he?

She was about to look for him again when she got waylaid by Elsa, who had a few of their friends from New York in tow. Emma smiled and put on her hostess cap, making small talk. A few of them actually seemed interested in what she was working on, much to her surprise and delight. She was explaining the danger to creatures like sea turtles and whales when someone touched her arm.

Emma turned, almost expecting Killian, but it was her mother. She quickly crushed the kernel of disappointment, instead embracing the thrill of having her parents there, actually supporting her.

"Mom! Dad!" They beamed at her before her mom drew her into a hug.

"It's good to see you, Emma," she said in Emma's ear. "You look beautiful."

Emma blushed again as she hugged her father; it wasn't often she got such effusive praise from her mother. Mary Margaret Blanchard-Nolan was a great beauty herself, with her dark hair and green eyes. Indeed, Emma's parents were a very handsome couple, as Killian would say.

"Let me guess. Snow White and Prince Charming?" Emma asked, when she finally took in their costumes. They didn't have their masks on yet, but it was obvious who they were.

"Stick with what works, right?" her dad said, an arm around his wife.

"You'll be telling that story when I'm eighty," Emma teased. God, it was so good to see them. It was amazing what some time away could do, with the whole "giving you perspective" thing.

Mary Margaret looked around. "Where's Killian?"

Emma frowned. "I'm not sure." She looked up at the clock. "He should have been here by now." She looked around again, eyes straining through the mask. She caught a flash of a long coat and snapped her eyes up, hoping.

It was him.

Killian stood at the head of the stairs, cutting a rather dashing figure despite the mask. It didn't quite cover his whole face, but it was enough. He was looking around and suddenly Emma wished she had a neon sign over her head. I'm right here! she thought, her breath catching in her throat. She knew the moment he saw her because he smiled, that happy dimpled grin she loved so much.

Emma moved without thinking, her only thought was to get to him. Killian must have been the same, as he hurried down the stairs, meeting her at the bottom. "There you are, love," he said, taking her hands in his.

"Where were you?"

"I had a bit of a malfunction with this bloody mask," he said, his voice tight. Emma immediately knew something was wrong. She looked around, then guided him to a corner.

"What's really going on?"

Killian let out a frustrated breath. "Neal knows about us, sweetheart."

"What do you mean?" she asked, her heart sinking.

"He stopped by the garage a little while ago. Said that if I came he'd make life very difficult."

Emma clenched her fists. "Asshole," she hissed. "But you came anyway?"

"I wasn't going to leave you, darling."

Emma worried her lip between her teeth. "But what about...?"

"But nothing. If I get fired, I get fired. You're more important than any job."

She got a lump in her throat, anger at Neal and love for Killian warring inside her. "I love you," she said softly. "A lot."

Killian grinned. "I love you too, Emma." He cupped her cheek, drawing her in for a sweet chaste kiss. "Shall we, Princess?" he asked, offering his arm.

Emma took a deep breath and nodded. "Definitely." She slipped her arm through his. She wasn't going to let Neal ruin her night. "Would you like to dance or meet my parents first?"

Killian looked askance at her even though the mask. "They're here?"

"Yep."

"Perhaps a dance to warm up?"

"Scared to meet my parents?" she teased, leading him toward the dance floor. No one was dancing yet, but who cared? Maybe they would start a trend.

"No one's scared, Swan," he said, taking her into his arms. "Perhaps I merely want a moment with you first."

She put her hand in his and curled the other around his shoulder. "Didn't we just have a moment?"

"I'm a greedy man, love. I want every moment with you."

He led them in the dance—Emma was pretty sure it was a waltz—not making fun of her when she missed a few of the steps. It had been years since she'd danced quite like this. But she loved it. Despite the pressure she should be feeling, all she felt was happy, light, secure with Killian's arms around her. She caught a glimpse of Will and Elsa following their lead. To her surprise, Will wasn't that bad of a dancer. He trod on Elsa's feet a couple of times, but Elsa looked like she was genuinely having fun.

Many other couples joined in, dresses swirling and rustling around them.

"This is amazing," Killian said softly in her ear. "I'm so proud of you, Emma."

Emma squeezed his hand a little tighter. "I wouldn't be here without you."

Killian shrugged. "You'd have found your way eventually, Swan. But I am glad I get to share this with you."

"There's no one I would rather share this with, Killian. Thanks for believing in me." She kissed him, right there on the dance floor, not caring who saw. This man made her happy, indescribably so, and she wanted everyone to know it.

After the dance they got some champagne and hors d'oeuvres, Emma suddenly ravenous. She hadn't eaten much since breakfast that morning. Her mother always said that you could tell a good party based on the food and Emma thought she'd done quite nicely. There was a long table laid out with dishes, many native Hawaiian, large and small. Everything she tried tasted great, almost melting in her mouth.

A few people came up to them while they ate; Emma slipped into hostess mode seamlessly, keeping Killian at her side. She had a little speech to give later, but she preferred to talk to people this way, in small quiet conversations. Several of the administrators of the reserves cornered them, congratulating Emma on the seeming success of the event. One of them even offered Killian a job, which was amazing in and of itself.

"Am I going to have to fight for you?" Emma teased as they left. She'd seen her parents on the far side of the room; it was time for them to meet her boyfriend.

Killian smirked. "Possibly. What would you offer me? A corner office? Head of my own team perhaps?"

"Whatever it took to keep you," she said honestly. "I think you'd be a great impartial voice. As well as a great scientist."

He stopped them in their tracks. "You really mean that, don't you?"

Emma looked confused. "Of course I do. I've read your stuff, Killian. You're passionate, intelligent. Having you just down the hall from me is just a bonus."

He raised a brow at her. "Is that where I'd be? Down the hall from you?"

"If you want. But if you want another job..."

He put a finger to her lips. "I was just teasing, sweetheart. You're stuck with me, I'm afraid."

A warmth bloomed in her chest. She planned on being happily stuck with him for a very long time. "Come on, let's go see my parents. They are dying to meet you."

When they found them, David and Mary Margaret were speaking to the Mayor of New York and his wife. Emma was stunned that they'd come, since they'd thrown an engagement party for their daughter a few days ago.

"Your Honor. Mrs. Herman," Emma said, stepping up to the group. "I'm so pleased you could make it."

Ella Herman smiled. "I was just telling your mother how nice it will be to get away from the city for a few days. Thank you for inviting us."

"How's Alexandra?" Emma didn't especially like the girl, but it didn't hurt to make nice.

"She's well. Planning her wedding." For the first time, the older blonde's eyes fastened on Killian. "Perhaps you'll be joining her soon?"

Emma blushed, her arm tightening on Killian's. "Sorry. This is my boyfriend, Killian Jones. He's a grad student at the University of Hawaii." She looked at Killian. "Killian, this is Mayor Thomas Herman and his wife, Ella."

"It's an honor to meet you both," Killian replied, giving them a short bow. Emma bit her lip to keep from laughing. Sometimes she forgot about the Brit in him.

The Mayor shook his hand vigorously and they exchanged pleasantries. Then the Mayor saw a potential campaign donor and hurried off, his wife in tow. Emma let out a sigh, finally turning to her parents. "Well, this is awkward now," she said.

Killian squeezed her hand, stepping forward. "David, Mrs. Nolan. I'm glad to finally meet you in person."

David held out his hand and Killian shook it. "It's good to meet you to, Killian," he said. "Finally."

"Dad, it's only been three months!"

"Still, you two look very...serious."

Mary Margaret glared at her husband. "I think you're too late on the overprotective father thing, David," she admonished. She turned to Killian. "I'd like to apologize for my behavior the last time we spoke, Killian. I wasn't being fair to either of you."

"You being here for Emma is more than enough, Mrs. Nolan."

This was crazy, the four them standing around in masks. Emma ducked them into a corner so they could talk without the hindrance. It went better than she expected; her parents genuinely interested in getting to know him. Killian blushed deeply when Mary Margaret hugged him, murmuring how sorry she was about him losing his family. Emma felt a fierce love for her mother then, fervently hoping this could be the start of a whole new chapter in their lives.

"I better go schmooze some more," Emma said reluctantly.

"Would you like me to come, Swan?"

"No, stay here. Neal's still lurking somewhere, no doubt." It was disconcerting and a little frightening that he hadn't made a stink yet. She caught him staring out of the corner of her eye several times, but he never tried to talk.

Maybe he'd finally had enough of his petty game.

"Ah, Miss Nolan, there you are," Regina said, almost as soon as Emma stepped back into the whirlwind. "I wanted to introduce you to Mr. Gold."

"We've met," Emma said shortly. Still, she shook his hand. "Mr. Gold."

"A fine party, Miss Nolan," the old man said, his accent sending shivers—and not the good kind—down her spine. God, she hated this man and his superiority complex. "And a worthy cause. How did you stumble upon it?"

You already know, you bastard. Aside from making outrageous amounts of money, Gold lived to make his son happy. Which was why Neal was a spoiled, entitled brat. Still, she shrugged. "I saw an opportunity," she said, her voice even. "Surely keeping the ocean safe for everyone is a good thing?"

"Indeed it is, dearie. I wish you well in your philanthropic endeavor."

"Thank you for sharing your facility," Emma replied, with more graciousness than she felt. "Ms. Mills was wonderful to work with."

"Ah yes," Gold said. "She is most competent. Now if you ladies will excuse me, I must get back to my wife."

Emma rolled her eyes as soon as he was gone. "I hate that blow hard."

"Grin and bear it, Miss Nolan," Regina advised. "Grin and bear it."

Emma nodded and moved off, intent on finding Killian before she had to make her speech. She wasn't ashamed to admit that she wanted that little boost of confidence that he gave her. She found him still talking to her parents, gesturing emphatically. Emma ducked under his waving hand, chuckling.

"Seems like you're getting along," she said, smiling. She knew Killian had been nervous, but there didn't seem to be any reason now.

"Killian was telling us about his boat," her father said, much more relaxed now.

"That's great." Emma put her hand on Killian's arm. "I think it's time for my speech."

"You'll be amazing," Killian assured her, covering her hand with his. "I know it."

Beside him, her parents were nodding. "Go get 'em, sweetheart," David said.

Emma beamed at them; no matter what happened, she had the love of these people and that was all that mattered. "Back in few," she said, letting out a steadying breath.

"Swan," Killian called.

"Yeah?"

He pulled her back, placing a light kiss to her lips. "Good luck."

She rolled her eyes playfully, but even she could appreciate a good luck kiss from her boyfriend, cheesy as it was. It was like taking a little piece of him with her. Emma squeezed his hand one last time, then tore herself away. She stepped up to the platform at the head of the room, settling behind the ornate lectern. She gripped the edges hard, then slipped off her mask.

Silence descended as the lights dimmed and the spotlight shown on her.

"I'd like to start by thanking you all for coming," Emma began, blinking in the bright light. "In a relatively short time, this has become a cause near and dear to my heart. I'm overjoyed that many of my family's friends and acquaintances are here to help me celebrate that."

She spoke off the cuff (she hated prepared speeches) but from the heart. This truly was important to her and not simply as a way to prove herself. As she spoke, a screen behind her showed gorgeous pictures of the islands and Emma outlined just what she was attempting to do. She couldn't see due to the bright lights, but she could feel the eyes on her. This was a side to her many of these people had never seen; she hoped that they would be impressed as well as surprised.

When she was finished, a few of the reserve administrators stepped up and chimed in, echoing Emma's plea for more funding and more coordination. She could just make out a few nods in the crowd, very encouraging. When the presentation was finished, there was much applause.

Emma smiled so much her cheeks hurt, feeling like she'd truly accomplished something. Something important.

She stepped down from the podium and right into Killian's arms. He spun her around, mask tossed aside, Emma's peels of laughter filling the air. "Emma, that was incredible," he exclaimed, kissing her soundly.

Emma hugged him close as he put her down; she actually thought she might cry. He'd helped her so much, just by believing in her. "I'm glad it's over though," she laughed.

Killian brushed some stray hair out of her face. "Now we can celebrate."

David cleared his throat and they broke apart. Before Emma could say a word, her parents were hugging her too. "We are so proud of you, Emma," Mary Margaret said. Emma blushed, not expecting the praise or pride on their faces. Elsa, Will, Anna and Kristoff were there too, with lots of hugs and smiles. Except Will, who just gave her a quiet nod.

"Toast!" Kristoff cried. "We need a toast!"

A waiter hurried over with a tray of champagne; they all grabbed a flute. Her friends and family stood around her, glasses raised. "To Emma," they all said in unison. Emma flushed, almost as dark as her dress but drank with them.

She started to reply when all the lights in the ballroom went out.

"What the hell?" Emma cried. The accompanying murmuring and shuffling only lasted moments as the lights came back on.

"Everyone remain where you are!" a deep authoritative voice yelled. "Federal agents!"

"WHAT?" Emma ignored their directive and pushed past Killian, determined to find out just what the hell is going on. Two men in suits strode through the crowd, accompanied by a hand full of cops, guns drawn. "Is that really necessary?"

"Ma'am, if you'll just remain where you are, we'll accomplish our mission much faster." The guy in the suit looked a bit uncomfortable to her, but determined to do his job, whatever that was.

"I'm not doing anything until I know just why the hell you've crashed my event."

The man's brown eyes were sympathetic. "I'm sorry, Miss..."

"Nolan, Emma Nolan."

"Well, Miss Nolan, we've come to apprehend a suspect. We've reliable information that he's here at this event."

"Suspect for what?" It all smelled fishy to her. No pun intended.

"I am not at liberty to say, Miss Nolan." He showed her his badge. FBI? What?

"He's over here!" an all too familiar voice called. "Scruffy guy in the long coat."

Emma rounded on Neal, a terrible, terrible feeling settling in her stomach. "What the fuck have you done, you bastard?"

Neal shrugged. "Hey, he attacked me, Emma."

Already, the feds were pushing past her toward Killian. This was a nightmare. It wasn't happening. She picked up her skirts and ran, putting herself between the agents and Killian. "You're not taking him. Killian hasn't done anything wrong."

"Oh, on the contrary, Miss Nolan," came Gold's smooth voice. "He's not only attacked my son, but he's also in some very serious violations in his visa. I'm afraid these fine gentlemen will have to take him."

"No!" Emma screamed.

Killian took her by the shoulders. "It'll be alright, love. I promise." She could tell by the look in his eyes that he was scared, but more than that, he was angry. Not at her. Christ, she couldn't take it if he blamed himself. They hadn't done anything wrong, not really.

Emma blinked back tears. "I'm going to bring you home," she said softly. "I swear." She kissed him, but the agents were pulling his arms behind his back before they were done. Killian was wrenched from her and marched off; she caught one final glimpse of his blue eyes, then he was gone.

An long tortuous hour later, Emma paced in the bungalow, fuming. The party had broken up right after the cops left; no one was in the mood to celebrate any longer. Emma ignored everyone until they reached the bungalow. Elsa and Anna helped her change into more normal clothes; indeed, she couldn't get the ballgown off fast enough. Then she was on the phone, calling anyone and everyone who might be able to get her some fucking answers.

She wasn't the only one. Her father was on the phone too, calling the company's legal team. It was her one solace, that her parents seemed to be as worried about Killian as she was. Emma had no idea what they had done with him; no one would tell her anything.

"He was set up," she snarled, hanging up her phone. "That jackass set him up by provoking that fight!"

"Emma," Mary Margaret said gently. "Were you and Killian doing anything...I don't know...wrong?"

Emma sagged onto one of the stools. "We shouldn't have been together," she said. "Not while I was staying here. Some stupid rule or something." She ran her fingers through her long hair. "I should have moved out when I had the chance."

"It wouldn't have made a difference." Emma looked up, stunned. Regina Mills stood in the middle of

the room, Robin at her side. He looked both distressed and angry. Emma could sympathize.

"Did you know?" She would never forgive her if Regina had been the one to give them away.

"Not until the authorities arrived. However, seeing that my own relationships is...complicated," she said, glancing at Robin, "I probably would have left you alone."

Emma was surprised. Her gaze flickered to Will and Elsa, Will trying to hide a bit. It was almost funny. "Probably?"

Regina raised an elegant brow. "We'll never know, now will we?"

"I've already quit," Robin added. "Not that it helps much. But I'm not working for anyone who sets up my friends."

"I'm not either," Will chimed in, suddenly looking determined. "Ms. Mills, ya can consider this my resignation."

Regina looked surprised, but nodded. Emma was certain she didn't even know who Will was, but Emma appreciated his gesture.

"So what do we do now?" Elsa asked. "We can't let Gold do this."

David stepped back into the room, looking grave. Emma hadn't even noticed he left. "We might be too late. Killian's already been processed. They're on their way to the airport."

"The airport?!" Emma screeched.

"Gold's got friends in high places," he reminded her. "He's being deported."

Emma couldn't breathe. She couldn't think. Elsa and her mother were at her side in moments, holding her. This was so much worse than she expected. Deported? How? But then she remembered, Killian—for all his time in the States—had never become a citizen. He was here on a student visa. She wasn't sure what the ins and outs of those were, but since Gold had likely trumped up something to get the Feds to take him, it didn't matter.

But this was far worse than a simple arrest. Killian was being sent out of the country. Possibly forever.

No, no, no. She could fix this. She could. Emma was not losing him.

"I'm going to the airport," she announced. "We're going back to New York and fixing this."

No one argued with her.

The next few hours were a bit of a blur. The Feds transporting Killian had a headstart; Emma missed their plane by half an hour. She paced some more while they waited for the first flight to take them to the mainland; she didn't care where. It was late, so there weren't many flights at all. At midnight, they caught a red eye to Seattle of all places. Her mother called ahead, waking their driver, demanding he be at JFK when they landed.

The connecting flight to New York had a layover in Chicago; Elsa convinced her to get out and stretch, eat a snack. Emma knew she should be tired, but she was too worried about Killian. What if they just sent him back to England and she didn't get to see him? He didn't have anything aside from the clothes on his back. He had no relatives, no place to go.

He'd said it himself; England wasn't home. Not anymore.

She was going to murder Neal if she ever saw him again. How could he be so fucking petty?

When they finally landed in New York, Emma was exhausted in ways she'd never even imagined. It was nearly noon; she'd been awake for over twenty four hours. Her old room in the penthouse felt like a foreign country; it took all of her patience to shower and redress, getting the traveling grime off her skin.

"Emma, you have to sleep," her mother said, clearly worried.

"Mom, I'm not stopping until I've fixed this."

"Honey, you're been going nonstop. You're going to kill yourself like this. Would Killian want that?"

"He's at the consulate," her father added. "He's safe for now. I've got our people working on it."

"Are you sure?" It wasn't that she didn't trust her father, but she wanted to see Killian with her own eyes.

Unbidden, her dad hugged her. Emma sank into his arms, overcome with exhaustion. "I promise. We'll fix this, Emma. But you should rest."

She nodded into his shoulder. "Okay."

Elsa, who hadn't left her side since Emma declared she was going to the airport, stayed with her. It was almost like they were kids again, sharing Emma's huge bed. She missed Killian fiercely, missed his warmth, his voice murmuring in her ear. It was like a knife in her chest; it was still hard for her to breathe. This was so unfair; they were so happy.

Emma slept, but not well. She'd gotten accustomed to Killian sleeping beside her; it was much too quiet. And cold. She missed his arm thrown casually around her waist or his leg slipped between hers.

When she couldn't stand trying to sleep any longer, she crawled out of bed. Coming into the huge main area of the penthouse, she immediately knew something was very wrong.

"What happened?"

David winced. "U.S. Air Marshals put Killian on a plane bound for Heathrow an hour ago."

"I thought we were going to fix this!"

"We are, Emma. But it takes time."

"Screw time! Killian didn't do anything, damn it!" What was the point of being ridiculously rich if she couldn't get the man she loved back? Completely fed up, Emma marched back to her room, rifling through her desk for the thing she'd forgotten when she left New York all those months ago: her passport. If she couldn't see him in New York, she'd just go to London and wait for things to get sorted out there.

At least they'd be together.

That turned out to be easier said than done. When she got to JFK, she got pulled aside by security almost immediately.

"What now?" she hissed, not at all happy. She was about at her wit's end; this was insane. Killian got fucking deported because her ex couldn't stand the fact that she'd moved on. Just couldn't stand the sight of her being happy with someone else.

Fuck him.

Emma sat in a stark white room, drumming her fingers on the table, waiting for someone to tell her what was going on. If they didn't hurry, she'd miss her fucking plane and Emma was in no mood deal with any of this.

"Hello, Miss Nolan," a balding man in his fifties said, stepping into the room. "My name is Albert Spencer and I'll be looking after you today." There was a faint trace of an accent, English maybe?

"What's going on, Mr. Spencer? I'm going to miss my plane." She tried to sound calm, but she was really, really annoyed.

"Yes, you were headed to London," he said calmly. "Any particular business?"

What was this "were" business? She was going and that was that. "Personal business," she said finally, looking him in the eye. "That a crime now?"

Spencer shook his head. Instead of letting her go, he asked her more questions. Christ, it sounded like he was trying to get her life story out of her. "What is this all about, Mr. Spencer? I don't really see the point and I'd like to catch my plane."

Spencer fingered her passport, swallowing. "I'm afraid I can't allow you to do that."

Emma's brow creased, anger and annoyance simmering just beneath the surface. "My passport's in order and this is a free country. So do you mind telling me just what the hell you're talking about?"

Spencer looked sympathetic, but stern. "Your name is on the 'no fly' list, Miss Nolan. We were alerted when you tried to get through security."

"That's not possible." The "no fly" list was supposed to be for terrorists and other sketchy people. At least, that was what she'd always thought. Now it seemed much more sinister.

"I assure you it is."

There was only one person who had the pull and connections to put a completely law abiding person like Emma on that list. Gold. Did he get some perverse enjoyment at pissing her off? Did Neal expect her to come groveling or some shit? They really were two of a kind. Jesus Christ.

So Killian was gone, back to England. He had nothing. And now, Emma couldn't (for the moment) follow him because the damn authorities wouldn't let her leave the country. She almost burst into hysterical laughter at the absurdity of it.

Emma snatched back her useless passport and left. She didn't know how she was going to fix this yet, but she would figure it out.

Robert Gold had fucked with the wrong woman.