Emma sighed heavily and closed the sixth volume she was leafing through in hopes of finding something about her realm. Nothing. She looked at what Killian had been looking through before he left to get them something to eat. He had books of star charts out along with other books that talked of other worlds. She wondered why he had those out. What would star charts even do? Still, she trusted that whatever he was reading them for it was to help find something about her world.

The World in the Mirror. She leafed through it, setting it aside. It sounded too much like wonderland and definitely not a place she wanted to visit. There were others like it. The Lost Empire. Avalon. The land of Fae. The Land Without Color.

How could there be a world without color. She thought. She just confused herself at the thought of how either people there saw color differently or light somehow defied logic there.

All these worlds defy logic. Which is ironic because I am just looking for the world without anything strange. A world without magic apparently.

She groaned to herself and got up to move the books back to their stack when a smaller book was knocked to the floor. Emma bent over to pick it up and was amazed this book wasn't a big atlas and didn't look to describe other worlds.

She flipped it to the first page and scrunched her nose in confusion.

Soul Bonds: Essays on the theories of True Love, Soul Mates, and the Red String of Fate

True love? Soul mates? Emma thought. What would Killian be doing with a book like this?

"Any luck?" A voice asked from behind her. Emma turned and clutched the book behind her as Killian walked over. A small brown bag in hand and what smelled like freshly baked bread.

"No, I haven't been able to find anything yet. Has no one really heard of a land without...all this?"

"Magic?"

"Yeah, that. Is it that odd?"

"Would people in your time think it's odd if someone came in rambling about a world of magic?"

"Most would at least."

"Would you?" She looked at him and again felt as if she was looking into him. It would be such a simple question if there wasn't more left unspoken.

"If it was you?" She finished for him. He only nodded solemnly, his face telling how nervous he was about this. Swimming in a storm, fighting three men at once even for practice, yet this made him nervous. It confused her.

But she knew such a weighted question was important for him to know.

"Probably not at first." She admitted honestly. "But I think...I would have."

"You would?" His voice so eager to believe in that.

"Well, I have a gift you know. The ability to tell when people are lying."

"And you would rely on that with me? That's what would determine if you believed me?"

"Yes, it would play a part." She looked down. It was true but she also knew that if he showed up at her out of the blue alone and confused, in need of help she wouldn't turn her back on him. She couldn't. "But I think I would believe you anyways. There's something that...makes no sense to me. But it's like there's something that would tell me to help you."

She laughed and put a hand over her face

"I'm making no sense at all. I blame the books."

"No, you're making perfect sense Miss Swan." He said so truthfully, she couldn't understand it. "I think I understand what you mean."

She watched him for a moment, transfixed by his agreement when she noticed how close they seemed to be sitting. She blinked and looked to how they were just sitting side by side in the courtyard eating. Their hands practically touching on the stone, their arms were already brushing against each other, even her legs were gravitating closer to his.

She blinked and stared at it a moment. She usually didn't want to be this close to anyone, but with Killian it became natural. He didn't even seem to mind or notice it. Immediately she stood up and that was when she felt odd. It felt unnatural to be moving away, like a rubber band being stretched.

"I think that's enough for me."

"Yes, I suppose we do need to be 'hitting the books'." Killian smiled as if asking if he used the expression correctly. She couldn't help but laugh and nod to him.

"When do you think we should be getting back to the ship?"

"Well, we should be finished receiving the provisions tomorrow morning. Once Liam and I make sure that everything is accounted for we will be back out to sea."

"So we only have the rest of the day then?" She asked. His blue eyes looked at her with sympathy, with an understanding to her concern.

"I'm afraid so."

"Okay." She sighed and nodded. "Okay."

Right now, she didn't want to think about what would happen if she couldn't find anything on her world. Would that mean she would have to stay here forever? Would that be such a bad thing?

"Alright, let's get back to it Miss Swan." Killian declared for her. She looked over to him and offered a gracious smile. He was trying so hard, doing so much just to help her. No one had ever done that before. Killian surprised her in many ways, but that way was the greatest. They walked down the dimly lit corridors back to the library to resume their research, with the lieutenant leading the way.

Would it be that bad to stay here? She asked herself as she gazed at his back. He walked tall and erect, no slouching or doubt in his stance. Confident in everything except for her occasional flirting. It made her smile.

No…no it would not.

.

.

"Alright you youngsters!" Erasamus's voice announced loudly, finding them both amongst a stack of new books. "I am kicking you out for the night."

"Please!" Emma stood up and walked over to the short monk. "I still have found nothing on my world, I can't give up now we leave in the morning! I still have time!"

The stout man sighed heavily and scratched at his bald patch atop his head, clearly uncomfortable with the situation.

"I'm sorry my dear, but it's the rules of the library. It closes up before sunset so we can prepare for evening prayers." His demeanor loosened up as he tried to offer a kind smile. "Besides, I think its best you two don't spend all night poured over books. You're usually out at sea, go and have some fun while you are in port for the night. You'll find Misthaven has a lot of hidden beauties to it."

He looked over to Killian and laughed.

"But I don't need to be telling you that lad, do I?" He chuckled merrily. Emma felt her shoulders slump. He already was kind enough to them by letting her into the library today to research, she couldn't make a fuss if he was only following the rules of the monastery.

"Thank you for your assistance then." She whispered quietly, disappointed. Turning back to the table she took up a stack of books and began moving to their original shelf to begin placing them back when Erasamus stepped over and took them from her.

"It's my pleasure milady. Don't worry about tidying up, I can do that for you two. Go out and enjoy the night here. I mean it."

Emma tried to offer a thankful smile. The man was trying to be kind to her, but she still felt a little uneasy for her predicament. Looking to Killian she nodded to him, and he got up to look at the monk.

"Thank you for the use of the library. It is greatly appreciated." He bowed in acknowledgement before taking up his hat to carry underneath his arm.

"I wish you both luck on your quest!" The friendly man waved as they began walking out of the library. Unsuccessful in their original endeavor. The moment they stepped out onto the street again, Emma could tell sunset was drawing nearer and nearer. A whole day wasted, except to learn that her world didn't exist here.

"Miss Swan?" Killian asked, placing a hand to her shoulder. "Let me accompany you back to the ship."

She looked up to him with hollow eyes.

"Actually…I think I want to be on land right now."

"Of course." He nodded and looked around. "If you would like, I remember passing this strange fountain earlier, perhaps we can go walk there and explore the area."

"Killian." She whispered shaking her head. "Don't take this the wrong way, but right now I think I need a little time alone. I really appreciate all you've done to help me today, but I just need to be by myself. Just for a bit."

She expected him to say something about it. Tell her it was foolish to walk around alone in an unknown town, hell in an unknown world. Instead, he just smiled at her, that smile that told her he understood even if his cornflower blue eyes met hers with concern.

"I understand. Just don't take too long in coming back to the ship."

"I won't." She tried smiling back to him, and with a departing wave she walked off. She hadn't really realized how close she had always been to Killian at this point, the ship not creating a lot of distance before. But walking away, it began to feel noticeably larger and larger with every step. She walked around the town, looking into shop windows as she passed by and even found herself walking to outside the castle. It was small, clearly in construction, but still looked like a medieval fortress.

"Don't really see those back home." She sighed to herself before turning away. She was surprised then that she a girl sitting on a crate humming to herself. Emma titled her head as she studied the girl working on a piece of sewing. It was curious to see. Didn't people usually sew inside? Why was this girl just casually sitting outside in what looked to be an alley sewing?

Maybe she's homeless. Emma shrugged and began walking by.

"You look like you could use a fresh pair of clothes." A musical voice called to her as she passed. The strange girl obviously. Emma knew how to deal with that and kept walking by. "You don't need to ignore me Miss Swan."

That made her freeze. She huffed heavily and turned around, clearly not in the mood for this she walked several steps back to stand in front of the girl. The strange girl looked to be close to her age, and she hadn't even looked up at her.

"Okay, how do you know my name, that's freaky."

"There are several strange things in this world Miss Swan. I would figure you to know that more than anyone."

Emma's emerald eyes appraised the girl curiously.

"Who are you?" It was then the girl looked up, her almond shaped eyes and cherry lips making a beautiful and kind face, with hair black as night falling down her back in a straight sheet.

"I'm really not important." The girl sighed heavily, placing a hand to her cheek. "Honestly people forget I even exist."

Emma scoffed at that.

"I've been there, believe me. But that doesn't answer my question on how you know my name."

"Don't you believe in magic?"

"With what's happened to me already, it would be crazy if I said no." She replied dryly. The girl only smiled at that, wide enough to show her perfect teeth.

"Well spoken. Truly. But since you believe in magic, you can then understand that I might have a magical ability to know names."

"Do you know everyone's name?"

"Curious, aren't you?" Emma shrugged at that. "Would you want to know the name of every single person you passed? No. Of course not. Neither do I. Not unless I care to. That's why I make it a habit of only knowing the names of interesting people."

"Like me?" She asked skeptically.

"Exactly like you." The girl's eyes glistened passionately. "You are very special indeed Miss Swan."

Licking her lip, Emma stepped closer and lowered her voice.

"Does that mean you know where I am from?" The girl raised a brow and resumed her work with a happy hum.

"Maybe." A half-truth. Emma concluded; the girl knew more than she let on.

"Please. I just want to get back."

"Where exactly?" The girl's eyes glanced up at her, taunting her with knowledge.

"To my world. My time or whatever. You know I'm not from here."

"I do, but why do you want to go back? Is it your home?"

"Yes." The answer felt hollow as it left her mouth. Emma had never grown up in a 'home' and she never knew what one really felt like. But agreeing to it now, left a sad feeling in her heart. As if her superpower was detecting a lie in herself. And judging by the way the girl was looking at her, it was clear she didn't believe her either.

"I'm sorry Miss Swan. I don't have a way to help you get back."

Truth. It was the bitter truth, but it felt like it was becoming more obvious to Emma that getting back to her world was turning into a fantasy.

"Thanks then. I thought you could help me."

"Oh, I can help you!" The girl called after her. "Just not exactly with what you want."

"Yeah, well I'm not interested in anything else."

"Do you really want to wear those baggy clothes for the rest of your time living here? I don't think that rope is very comfortable to you all day!" Emma paused at that and fingered the hidden rope at her waist, surprised the girl knew about it. Even with her small waistline, she had to cut off her breathing to practically ensure the pants wouldn't fall.

"I can have these clothes made up for you in a moment." The girl continued airily with a smile. "Really you would be helping me out. I don't like to carry much and no one around these parts will find as much use for them as you will."

Emma eyed the girl warily and looked at the stack. They looked to be just a comfortable pair of trousers and a tunic. Practical. But she glanced around the town and realized all the women and girls were in dresses. She stuck out like a sore thumb.

"It's not charity." She clarified.

"You can pay for it just by chatting with me. No one ever wants to sit and chat. Talk can pay more than gold you know."

"That's true, but I don't like gossip. Or having what I say be sold to the highest bidder." She moved to walk away again when the girl held up a hand to stop her.

"Oh no, I don't take kindly to gossip either. I just mean conversation. Everyone needs someone to talk to in life. You should know that."

Emma spun around, her hair whipping around her as she cast an eye at the girl. Suspicious but she was starting to get curious about the strange girl. Sensing that she was winning, the girl moved over her sewing basket and patted on it as a makeshift seat.

"I swear on my sisters I won't sell out anything we talk about."

Truth. Emma recognized. The girl hadn't uttered a lie since she had started speaking. It would be a very easy way to get some free clothes that would fit her without having rope marks by the end of the day.

She slowly walked over and took a seat, the girl immediately set to work. She didn't ask any questions but was working silently. Emma popped her lips. She was never really good at making friends. But her gaze wandered to people watch the people in the streets. She watched as a couple stepped out of one of the shops, a bakery most likely from the scent. The man stepped down first before holding up his arm the way Killian would with her sometimes as the young girl looped hers through it and they began walking on their way.

"Isn't it sweet to watch couples? Young love, it's so sweet and pure, it's the weaker form of true love but can still be quite strong." The girl chimed in, bringing her attention back.

"Oh. No, it's just in the land I come from...that doesn't usually happen." Emma resolved as an answer.

"Doesn't it? Maybe you just never noticed before."

"Trust me, I've never seen that before."

"What? A man offering an arm?"

"Is that what it's called when they…" Emma motioned holding up her arm and the girl laughed merrily.

"Yes, it's an act of chivalry here."

"Well chivalry isn't really around much where I'm from."

"I'm sure there are a lot of things here that aren't around where you are from. You look as if you are seeing everything for the first time."

"I guess I'm that obvious of a tourist." Emma scoffed and rested her chin in her hand.

"I think it just means you study things closely enough. You try to avoid looking at things again don't you."

"I just think I'm good at judging people's…characters the first try."

"You might miss something that way."

"Do you think I've missed something with you?"

"Not with me." The girl laughed amused. "It doesn't matter what you think of me. But I think there is someone else you need to look at again. Something else you need to think about again?"

"Who?"

"That isn't for me to say Miss Swan. But if I were to say something, it would be second guessing on where you truly belong."

"Where I belong? Back in my world! It's like you said! I've been trying this whole time to get back there! I spent all day in a dusty dark library and found nothing useful!"

"I'm sure that's not true." The girl hummed, taking out the largest pair of scissors Emma had ever seen. They looked expensive, with the gold plating and the strange marking around them as the threads were cut.

"It is. I'm so far unsuccessful at answering any of my questions. About how I got here or how to get back."

"Then maybe, you'll just need to come back. You can always return there when you have the right questions to ask."

"The right questions?" Emma asked. The girl nodded and flung out the clothes. Beautiful cream-colored leggings that looked thick and durable and a navy-blue tunic with a dark brown belt to tie at the waist. They certainly were a step up from the collection of mixed clothing she was cycling through.

"Trust me Miss Swan. I'm sure that you found something there that can help you with future questions you have." She made short work of taking out brown paper and placing the clothes in there before tying it up with some red thread. "I won't trouble you any longer to keep me company any longer, I do have other places to be. As do you, I'm sure."

"Yeah." Emma said, confusingly. "Thanks for the clothes."

"My pleasure. I'm sure we will meet again soon. Until then, take care!"

The girl said this without even gathering her own things from the alley, as if dismissing Emma from it herself. Not that she would complain about it, Emma was already peeved with the strange girl.

Right questions my ass. She thought bitterly, holding up the folded clothes. At least I got something comfortable to wear out of that strangeness. Crazy chick.

The Jewel came into view and Emma let out a sigh of relief she didn't know she was holding. The ship had become her usual over the past few months, and she was just happy to be back in what she was used to. No monks, libraries, or crazy tailors speaking to her cryptically. She walked up the gangplank and scanned around, hoping to find Killian. Only a few crew members were up about on deck, fewer than usual since most of them were likely doing their own business in port. Giving her greetings to them, she went below deck and came close to bumping up against Liam.

"Ah, Miss Swan." He smiled to her. "Were you successful at the library?"

"Actually, no we weren't." She sighed. "I can't find anything about my world."

"I'm sorry to here that milady." He looked at her sympathetically.

"Thanks." She said dejectedly. "Have you seen Killian?"

His eyes brightened at that, and he offered her a crooked smile.

"I have, I sent him on an errand at the moment, but he will be back soon."

"Okay." She nodded. "I won't hold you any longer, I'm sure you have important things to do."

"You aren't holding me from anything Miss Swan." His eyes fell to her package. "Did you get something while you were in town?"

"Oh, I…I was able to come across some fresh clothes for me. I'll be able to wash these and return them to their rightful owner."

"Very good. I was about to say." His grin grew across his face. "I could have sworn I saw similar packaging like that today.

She raised a brow at what he meant before opening the door to her cabin. She froze at the entrance when she recognized the neatly wrapped packages that were placed on her bed. Three, all wrapped in brown paper and tied with a red string, exactly like the one that she now carried. Her eyes looked on them in confusion as she approached the bed, dropping her own on the trunk placed at the foot. Delicately, she untied the string and unfolded the paper. A small gasp escaped her at the beautiful fabric that was revealed beneath it.

Emma grew up with little. She grew up with hand me downs and donations, shuffled into jeans that were too big and hoodies that were close to shreds. She never had anything fine and new. Amongst the brown paper, was a beautiful deep azure dress made of a fine fabric she never had seen before. Silk? Or maybe something like chiffon? She didn't know the difference. Clothes were never a big form of her identity; they were too expensive to be part of it. She tentatively picked it up, allowing the rest of it to unfold out from the package did she realize it was a dress. A beautiful one that looked too expensive for her.

She mindfully folded it up with a bit of a longing look before walking out of the room. Liam was waiting in the hallway, leaning against the wood with his arms crossed and an amused look on his face.

"Where did that come from?" She asked, nodding to the door. His eyes twinkled with delight.

"I think you know."

"Killian?" She asked, her voice quaking with the action. She never received a gift before. A real gift like this. While it would probably be the finest thing she ever would wear, she knew it most likely was too expensive for him.

And he got three of them. Her heart seized up. Did he go that far for me?

"I can't possibly accept them."

"I think you can." Liam winked at her. "Because the greatest way to thank Killian is by making him happy. And believe me Miss Swan, you already make Killian more than happy, and that's just on a regular basis."

He really is trying to be a wingman for his brother. Emma laughed to herself but looked down to her feet.

"I'm going to have Cook heat some water and bring the bathing tub up for you." He declared then. "I'm sure it's been sometime since you've had a proper bath. He turned and walked away from her, heading in the direction of the galley before she could add anything. Still, she couldn't help but smile at his behavior. In her time aboard the ship, Liam had become a comforting presence. He not only commanded respect but earned it from everyone, and that included Emma. She could see why Killian looked up to him so much.

Stepping back into the cabin she still couldn't help but grin at that beautiful dress. She took it in her hands again and pressed it against her curiously, picking up the skirt and holding it out. Eager to try it on.

.

.

Killian walked up the gangplank of The Jewel and immediately scanned the ship for sign of Emma. He knew she was more than capable of taking care of herself, but he was still nervous about leaving her earlier. He headed to the tailor when she walked away from him, a little crestfallen at her dismissal of him. He only comforted himself with the rationalization that she needed time to herself, after taking up three and a half months of her time on a ship out to see, the least he could do was afford her some time to herself on land. Even if the thought of allowing such a beautiful woman walk around unaccompanied clawed at his head ferociously. The clothes the tailor had given him were already wrapped up neatly, with the promise that additional lady things were wrapped in the packages as well. It had him blushing the whole way back to ship at how he hadn't even once considered the needs Miss Swan would have as a woman, it made him even more grateful to the tailor for thinking that much.

By the time he returned to the ship, Liam immediately requested him to check on one of the suppliers to ensure that they would be able to deliver supplies as soon as possible. It barely gave him time to deposit the packages in his old cabin before taking off to fulfill that request.

Has she found them yet? Does she think it presumptuous of me to give her such items? I hope she's back safely.

"She's already been back brother." Liam grinned at him from where he stood looking over some maps. "I figured it was about time for the lady to have a proper bath, so I don't think its best for you to check on her just yet."

The young lieutenant blushed furiously, needing to shake the mental image of Emma soaking in the basin. Even though it was tempting to think on.

"Thank you for that information, Liam." He cleared his throat and shot a glare to the other crewman loitering about. "I wish you would have told me that in private."

His older brother just laughed, scratching the back of his head as he folded up the map.

"Forgive me for my bluntness then." He folded the map expertly and his blue green eyes twinkled with delight. "I would recommend you freshen up as well. I hear this town gets very lively at night, and I'm eager to explore it."

"Very well." Killian smiled. "I suppose I'm going to go down and freshen up."

Removing his hat, he walked down bellow to the captain's quarters. Liam was kind enough to allow him room there. He was just glad that there was enough room to hang a hammock at night. He would be grateful his brother didn't care to have him in the quarters even if he teased him about having Miss Swan taking his actual room.

There wouldn't be anything I would not be willing to give her. He thought to himself. It might have started out for chivalrous reasons and for good form, but slowly those reasons evaporated. He really was infatuated with her.

He sighed and loosened the tight cravat at his throat for a moment and poured some cold water into the wash basin.

Maybe it is a sign that our efforts were fruitless at the library today. The thought purged into his head. Maybe Liam is right, and I really should tell her how I feel. Would it be enough to consider staying here? Would I be enough?

He sighed heavily and splashed some water onto his face and the back of his neck.

I would make her happy. I would do everything in my power to make her happy. Right now, that is all I can do. No matter how much I want to tell her.

"Wonderful! Ms. Swan!" Liam's voiced crowed loud enough Killian could hear it from the captain quarters. "You are a vision now that you have something that fits you better!"

There was a mumbling across the deck probably in agreement that riled him up. He was always cautious about the attention the rest of the crew gave her.

"Thank you. Is Killian coming with us?"

He perked up at that question happy that she was wondering about him. Though he had a hard time making out the rest of the mumbled conversation. Quickly he dried his face, retied his hair back, and began straightening his clothes. Once he was satisfied with his appearance, he turned to open the door and felt a body fall against him unexpectedly.

On instinct his arms reached out and caught the person, trying to keep them both steady from falling over when he found himself lost in a sea of emerald, green.

Emma. Emma was in his arms, and he never wanted to let go, she belonged there. This was the closest physical contact he ever had with her since finding her on deck crying. After that he tried to maintain his distance and figured to try and take things slowly to keep her comfortable. Other than that, it was just shyly brushing his hand against hers and finding any excuse to touch her, wishing for a chance to hold her to his body again. And finally, it had come in the form of an accident, their chests were pressed together, her hands were pressed against his chest casting warmth throughout his entire body, and they were gazing intently at each other. It lasted only a moment before she blinked up at him and pulled away much to his dismay.

"I'm sorry." She whispered breathlessly. Her hand coming up to tuck a blonde curl behind her ear, drawing his attention fully to her attire. She was already beautiful to him in just the sailor clothes she wore since they found her but seeing her in a dress was different.

Blue as the deepest sea, the material seemed to shimmer like water, glistening as it flowed down around her. The sleeves fell to her elbows with a little train of lace that danced around her arms. The same lace that trimmed the neckline highlighting her collarbone and teasing about the womanly curves beneath it. It was beautiful on her, and while it was simple in cut and design, she wore it as if it was the finest gown in the land. She looked like a doll with her milky white skin despite the constant sun and with her blonde curls tied back loosely by a matching ribbon. Killian vowed would watch that ribbon all night in case it slipped from her hair, if only for the excuse to tie it back for her.

"Liam sent me to ask if you would be joining us to finding dinner in the village, or if you would prefer to stay here."

Over my dead body am I staying here. Killian thought to himself. Already he knew she would draw the attention of every available or interested man in a hundred-meter radius.

"Of course, I was just freshening up."

"Oh." She smiled. "I also...wanted to thank you for the...clothes. They're...lovely."

"Aye they are." He answered although by the sound of his voice and the way she looked up at him they both knew he meant something else. He stared down at her, in particular looking at her pink lips. Oh how he wanted to brush over those soft lips. He dreamed of what a simple kiss would feel like from her, but he knew it would pale in comparison to the real thing. He finally looked back up to her green eyes, she was watching him too, and there was something new about them he thought.

Like she's seeing something for the first time. He realized, looking deeper into them when he hesitantly took a step closer to her and she didn't move away. They were both lost in each other's eyes before she gave a small shake if her head.

"We should probably go up to deck." She whispered softly.

"You're right." He whispered back, just wanting to keep moving closer to her, until he could see what it was to really kiss her. Instead, he offered her his arm with a polite bow. "Shall we?"

She hesitated a moment and he could see her mind thinking it over before slowly, she carefully looped her arm through his. Her small hand resting on the sleeve of his jacket yet searing down to his skin. She smiled at him, and he felt himself beaming with delight as he escorted her upstairs. Liam and Matthews were already waiting for them by the gangplank both looking up with amused smirks that Killian choose to ignore. He wasn't going to let them ruin this moment for him, for nothing would ever bring it down. Not when the night was promising to be so nice, and Emma Swan was on his arm. It could only get better from here.

With the sun set and the workday complete, people were bustling all about the town. They strolled through the darkened streets again as the lamplighters were finishing their evening task before taking their own evening amusement. Killian and Emma walking back behind Liam and Matthews. A few crewmen followed them from a respectable distance, laughing about something or another. Eventually they found a place out in the square, a tavern that was overflowing with patronage tables were being set outside for the additional customers. Seizing a table, the four of them sat and were pleasantly surprised with a mutton stew and freshly baked bread that the four of them were eager to have. The chat at the table was polite, mostly it centered on if they found anything and Emma comparing the town to the larger cities of her world. The three sailors listened with vast attention, always eager to learn more on new lands, though Killian couldn't tear his gaze away from her the whole night.

"Ale for you all tonight?" The barmaid sauntered over and asked merrily. Already on her tray she had four frothing mugs prepared for them.

"Probably just for the three of us." Matthews piped up, nodding to Emma. "Miss Swan I don't think you want to partake in it."

"Ale?" Emma repeated with a scoff. "How bad can it be? It's not like I haven't had alcohol before."

"Do you care to try it then Miss Swan?" Liam grinned, no longer the ship captain at the moment. She leveled him a look and nodded, which had him nodding to the barmaid to pass her a mug. It landed in front of her with a thud. She took hold of the handle and puffed at the foam overflowing from the rim before taking a large sip. The gagging of alcohol burning in her throat had her coughing to try and clear her airways. Killian just watched her with concern.

"God that taste." She gagged. "It's like…meady."

"That's ale." Liam smiled and took a drink. His own face was close to twisting in distaste before he cleared his throat. "Not the best but it definitely sits the job."

"You don't have to force yourself to finish it Miss Swan." Killian interjected, shooting the other two men a scathing look. It was no doubt that between them there would be teasing about being incapable of finishing a drink, but the promise of his eyes held that he wouldn't allow her to be subjected to that.

"I am capable of finishing my own drink." Emma scoffed, a little offended that he would think that much about her. As if to prove it, she took another quick chug. "This has nothing on tequila, its just a new taste."

"Tequila." Matthews repeated. "Is that what they call alcohol in your world?"

"It's a type of alcohol." She answered, swirling the contents of her mug. "But let's just say you don't want to drink too much of it if you don't want to suffer the repercussions."

"You sound like you are Killian's equal then in drinking." Liam chuckled.

"Brother!" Killian hissed, indignant and a fierce flush of embarrassment coating his cheeks. Emma laughed at that, judging by how proper the young lieutenant was, she would never guess himself to tolerate alcohol. Then again, judging by how quickly he was polishing off his own mug he seemed more than tolerant of it.

That's surprising. She thought to herself and took another sip. Already it was starting to warm the blood in her veins. That was when shouting and music started up in the streets, and apparently chairs were brought out for musicians to sit in front of the fountain and began playing lively music.

Emma turned to face the loud bustling sound of music, entranced by the display of fiddlers playing out in the open and the dancing figures that moved around him. She watched in fascination, studying them as they moved in embrace. Her fascination didn't escape the notice of Killian, who beamed at her interest. Reaching across the table he gingerly took a hold in his hand, bringing her green eyes to glance back to him in confusion.

"Would you like to dance?" He asked, grinning eagerly. A small pink tinted the apples of her cheeks and her green eyes flickered away from him, flustered from the pattering of her heartbeat skipping.

"Oh, I…I don't think so. I was only watching them. No one dances like that in my world."

"What a pathetic existence." Liam grinned and took a swig of his ale.

"Come on Miss Swan." Killian jumped from his seat across from her and walked around the side of the table, catching hold of her other hand, and pulling her up. Emma was shocked by how she didn't fight him on it and rose with his gentle tug. "Watching is not the way to enjoy it."

She stumbled after him, feeling her blush rise higher. Especially at the boyish and eager glint in his eyes, that no one had ever held to her before. It was too inviting to her, threatening to drag her in with the kindness and drown her in their blue depths.

"I don't know how to do it." She hissed, glancing around unsurely to everyone. She was certain people were going to be watching her, especially the men around that were on the crew of The Jewel.

"That's easy to solve Miss Swan." Killian whispered back. He pulled her closer, his touch gently bringing one of her hands to rest up on his broad shoulder. Even underneath the jacket she could feel the broad tense muscle of work that shaped him into a sailor, but that thought was quickly eclipsed when his hand lowered on her waist. She let out an elicit gasp at his gentle touch, feeling electric sparks despite the barrier of clothing. Her shy eyes looked up to his in time to see them study her carefully, clearly entranced.

He had felt it too.

"The rules are simple." He whispered, his breath airy against the nape of her neck. Emma watched him, entranced with the way his tongue ran over his pink lips before looking back up to his eyes. "Find a partner who knows what they're doing. Just follow my lead." He winked.

Damn him, he might not have practice with flirting but when he does it, he's a natural! Emma thought when he pulled her easily into the movement. Killian led them around through the groups of the fellow dancers, expertly twirling her around as she followed along with his movements. She struggled to not look down, trying to focus on not stepping on his (or anyone else's) feet. Anytime she felt she was going to bump against someone, he seemed to catch onto her and direct her in another direction. But to Emma's surprise, she found herself smiling soon and anticipating the movements with ease.

"I think I could get used to this." She grinned slyly, looking up to him beneath her lashes.

"I take it you're enjoying it?"

"It's entertaining enough." She nodded, trying to hide her pleasure. Emma had never really had a chance to go to a dance before, even the ones at school. Turned out no one ever thought to ask orphans.

His answer was a sly grin before he expertly twirled her about then took hold of her waist within both hands. She let out an unsolicited gasp at the surprising movement, her heart hammering with excitement from it as he twirled her above. Her confusion was tampered down by joy, her hands gripping his shoulders as a bubbly laughter filled within her. It was just a short lift before he lowered her back down to the ground and they were circling around again in the movements. Emma, a little dizzy, stumbled a bit but managed to catch herself easily.

Her green eyes sparkled with life and a beaming grin spread across her face.

"Now that's a rush!" She twirled around before moving around in front of him. He clutched her smaller hands within his, pulling her closer to him.

"You know, that's the first time I've seen it." She blinked, confused immediately again.

"Seen what?"

"Your smile." He grinned back at her, something akin to pride twinkling in his eyes.

"I smile all the time." She defended herself, biting her lip from adding. I smile around you all the time.

"You force a smile all the time, maybe smirk, but it never truly reaches your eyes. This is the first time I've seen you smile and mean it."

"Oh? And you can tell the difference between the two?"

"I can. There's a big difference."

"And what would that be?" Her voice was laced with skepticism, but she turned to look at him with a cheeky grin. But his face was fully serious, no hint of a joke behind them.

"Your eyes. Since I met you, they guard everything. But there was just a split moment right now, where there was nothing more than a joyful girl. A girl that was living and happy. I only want to help her get out more often, she deserves it more than anything."

Her heart stopped at that declaration as the music slowed a moment, their movements following suit. Were they the only ones dancing now? It certainly felt like it to her. The way he was looking at her, the way he always looked at her, like she was important to him. She wanted to believe that. The moment ended and the music started up lively and faster than the last song. He grinned and took hold of her hands in his and they began dancing around faster than the last one. The polka, Killian called it.

"You seem to have great practice at this." She giggled, twirling around, and taking his hand as they moved together again.

"Well, it might not be custom in your time, but dancing is one of the greatest pastimes in our realm." He beamed back.

"You must enjoy it enough to be such an expert."

His hold on her waist tightened, pulling her closer so their chests molded together, and her own breath evaded her. His blue eyes were roving over her, looking down to soak up every moment of them together like this.

"It only is," He breathed softly, warming the exposed skin of her neck. "If you like your partner enough."

She just looked at him, an uncertain feeling rising in her. Something that was ready to push her over the precipice of something more than she ever could understand. But something that was too tempting for someone who spent a lifetime alone.

"And do you?" She asked, needing the confirmation, needing to feel wanted. He only leaned closer, resting his forehead atop hers so there was no escaping his gaze.

"More than I ever felt for anyone before Miss Swan." He whispered, his eyes boring into hers. "Please, tell me what I can do. What will make you happy and keep that beautiful smile?"

She felt a piece inside of her crumbling, wanting so much to trust him with always making her happy. It would feel so easy to trust him like that.

"I want to dance all night. I never want to stop feeling like this…" She added before looking up to him. "With you."

The pure joy his smile emanated warmed his eyes and made her want to melt right there.

"As you wish." He murmured and then they moved together with the music. Neither ever dropping their smiles.

.

.

Liam watched with an eager grin before helping himself to his brother's ale. Something told him that Killian and Emma wouldn't be rejoining him soon. Might as well polish off his brother's drink. Matthews strolled back over and took a seat beside him, nodding to the pair.

"Are you worried at all?" He asked, sipping at his own drink. "Do you think it will work out alright?"

"You must be blind if you don't think those two are going to be together." He grinned back.

And I'm not just saying that because I was given a spell to summon my brother's soul mate.

Laughter had them both looking over to the two. Killian's smile warmed Liam up more than any alcohol ever could. His brother's eyes never strayed from the girl, and his smile was one he had never seen before. The pure joy and happiness that he held looking at the fair-haired girl, was something Liam knew he could never provide. It was a smile that came from being in love. He would never regret making that wish. As long as it kept that smile on his face.

"I asked the others, they're making bets."

"Bets? On what exactly?"

"The length of time before he asks her to marry him, the number of proposals she'll have to receive from him before she accepts, and if they'll get married before we make it back to our kingdom port."

Liam let out a hearty laugh at this news to his friend.

"Is that all? What ridiculous bets."

"Does that mean you don't wish to take part?"

"Its bad form for the captain to take bets on his own crew. Especially on matters of the heart."

"Especially if it concerns said captain's younger brother."

"Exactly." Liam raised his glass with a cheery smile. Matthews only smiled amusedly before getting back up.

"I'll give them your regards then."

"Hold on then I didn't say I wasn't betting. Just not as captain. I'm sending you over as my proxy."

"Me?"

"Yes you. Now two gold coins on them being set to marry the next time we make land, but not at our home port. I'll stop as many times as it takes for that bet to get returns."

"That seems hardly fair."

"I'm the captain it's the perks of the job. But throw in an extra coin that they get married in the next port." The captain's eyes glinted with mischief, relishing every bit of joy the Swan girl was able to bring both Jones.