801 Words, this chapter.

Dark Heart: Chapter Two

Emma's off morning was turning into an off day. Nothing was really happening. It was just a lot of paperwork and a few irritating phone calls. Usually, Emma took it all in stride, but today, it was really getting on her nerves. By lunch time she was an honest grouch.

"You OK?"

Emma scoffed. "No. I hate paper work."

"No one loves it."

"Thank you for that kernel of wisdom."

"Hey, don't snap at me, I'm just making conversation."

"Well, don't."

"Jeez."

The phone rang. "Again?" she asked, groaning. "If this is another stupid person..." She took the phone call. She rolled her eyes, she listened for a while then she held the phone out to the side.

Finally she put it back to her ear. "Yeah, well, you know...I'm sure the guy will move his car..." She rolled her eyes again. "Seriously? You want me to come down for a car that's parked in the yellow line? I'm not a meter maid buddy. Call a tow truck." She slapped the phone down.

"Emma..."

"What?"

"Usually you handle those with more...finesse."

"I don't feel like coddling babies today."

David looked at her with a raised eyebrow. "Em, is everything OK?"

"No! People are stupid!"

"Yeah, but..."

"I'm fine. Just leave me alone."

"Are you sure? If you need to talk..."

"No! Just...go away," she said.

"Fine," said David, walking to the back of the jail, muttering about grumpy people.

Emma shook her head. She got back to the endless paperwork. Then she heard the door open. "Great."

She looked up into the blue, smiling eyes of Killian Jones.

This time she did not feel a buzz of affection. "What do you want?" she snapped.

He stared. "Well, that's a fine greeting."

"Seriously, Killian, I'm working. Unless this is official business, just leave."

"Are you OK, Swan?"

"Why do people keep asking me that?"

"Maybe because of your sunny disposition?" he asked with a teasing smile.

"Go away."

"Ouch. Bad day, huh, love?"

"I'm not your love."

He smirked, moving closer. "Oh, I'm sorry, but that's not the impression I got last night."

She groaned. "Don't remind me."

He pulled back. This wasn't their playful banter. "Swan, what's wrong?"

"Nothing."

"Swan..."

"Just go away."

"Emma, Love, please, tell me what's wrong."

She groaned. "You want to do this? Fine." She stood. "Stupid people are what's wrong. You're what's wrong."

"What have I done?"

"You're smothering me!"

"I do not see how."

"Are you kidding? You're always around! You were at my place last night, you followed me to the diner this morning, now you're here...give me some space, for crying out loud! You're like a lost puppy!"

He frowned. He was more concerned then angry. "Swan, what has happened? Tell me, Love, maybe I can help."

"If you want to help, leave me alone!"

"Hook," said David softly, appearing beside him. He pulled the pirate gently. He nodded to the door. "Come on. Emma's just...in a bad mood."

She glared at both of them. "Maybe if idiots would leave me be, I wouldn't be!"

Killian looked very concerned.

"Come on," said David again, pulling him toward the door.

"Emma, we're supposed to have lunch."

David scoffed. "I wouldn't risk it."

"Not hungry!" she yelled.

Killian sighed and let Dave push him outside. He stepped out with him.

"Bloody hell, what's got in to her?"

David shook his head. "I don't know. She snapped at me too."

"Has something happened?"

"Not that I know of," said David. "There are the simple everyday nuisances, but she's used to it. Can you think of anything?"

He shook his head. "No, I saw her this morning she was fine. Last night we had a lovely, quiet time. She was fine, quite affectionate really."

David sighed. "Let's just give her some space. I'm sure it's just a bad mood."

Killian sighed. "I don't like leaving her like this, Mate."

"I know. I'm here. I'll keep an eye on her. I'll let you know if I find out anything."

"OK. Maybe I'll see if she's up for dinner."

"Sounds good, but.. uh, tread gently, huh?"

"Do not worry, Mate. I shall be smooth as a gentle breeze." He smiled cheekily.

David shook his head and went back to the door. "Great. You know, maybe you do put it on a bit thick."

Killian shook his head. "She loves it. Usually."

Dave chuckled. "Yeah. See you later."

Killian nodded, gave a last look towards Emma and reluctantly left.

End of Chapter Two