"Ma, this is amazing!" Henry exclaimed as he scurried to the entrance of their new house. It was huge, nothing like the apartment they'd left in Boston. Emma stepped onto the path, mouth agape as she dropped the bags she was holding. This wasn't a house, it was a small mansion. She was too shocked to notice the arm wrap around her waist until Killian pulled her close. He snuggled his face into her head and took a deep breath, enjoying this moment; the moment he felt he was truly able to provide for his family. Emma eventually snapped out of her trance.

"You're not kidding Hen." She turned around in Killian's arms. "Babe, this is incredible, but are you sure we can afford this?" His eyes briefly narrowed before he softened again.

"Hey love, now what did I say? I will provide everything we need. You just need to trust me." She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him into a passionate kiss.

"Thank you," she mumbled, whilst slowly pulling away.

"So are you guys going to open up or what?" Henry shouted, causing both Emma and Killian to laugh.

"Alright Kid, keep your hair on." Killian ran up behind him and quickly opened the door, ushering Emma to enter before him.

She walked over the threshold and was barely able to contain her sense of wonder. She walked into the centre of the hallway and spun around, taking everything in. The wooden floors were polished and a brand new state of the art kitchen had been installed. There were none other then three reception rooms on this floor too. "Jeez, this house is going to look bare for decades. The entirety of our belongings will fit in just two of these rooms," she marvelled.

"Well, let's just decide what we definitely want to keep and you can choose any new furniture you desire. This is our home now." Killian declared as he continued bringing in their things.

Later that day, they'd managed to bring in all of their belongings and place them into the relevant rooms. Henry had chosen the smaller, but unusually shaped bedroom at the end of the house with a partial sloping roof. He'd extended his step-fathers comment to include himself and had already begun designing a custom made castle bed that would include an entertainment centre and a place for all his toys and comic books. Killian had agreed, as long as it incorporated a place for two gaming chairs so he could continue to thrash Henry on their gaming night.

Emma sat on the bed they'd just spent the last hour re-assembling. Whilst she couldn't help but love this house, she was also filled with a sense of overwhelming dread. Her whole life had been based in and around Boston. She'd always had a job with colleagues and had a few close-ish friends. This move was meant to be a fresh start for their new family. She'd married Killian a little over a year ago after a whirlwind romance. They'd met at a bar and had what should have been a one night stand, but he'd managed to charm his way into her life, and her son's. She'd always been so careful about her partners meeting Henry, but something about Killian drew her in. Now their little dream was a reality, and one far greater than she could ever have imagined. It was only now occurring to her that she knew no one here and wasn't planning on getting a job, certainly not straight away. Killian wanted to provide everything they needed. She'd been hesitant to agree to his proposal at first, but was willing to at least give it a go. She had nothing against being a housewife, and it wasn't that it didn't appeal to a certain extent, she just wasn't sure it was for her. She'd never really had a career, but did enjoy paying her own way, it was what she was used too. She figured, however, that since it'd never occurred to her to allow someone to care for her, she was prepared to be open to new ideas and at least give this a go. At the very least, if it didn't work out, she could try different hobbies, perhaps go back to work.

She walked to the window and surveyed her new neighbourhood. Her attention was instantly stolen by whom she assumed was a neighbour. A dainty woman was busying herself in the garden next door pruning what looked to be an apple tree. She watched her for a few moments and hoped there wasn't anyone else watching her stare at her new neighbour, after all, she didn't want to come across as nosy, or worse, creepy. She sighed as she watched her continue to tend the apple tree. She was very elegant. She couldn't really see her face but she was wearing dress pants and a tight fitting, red silk blouse. Her deep, brown hair fell just below her shoulders and flicked out in soft curls. Emma sighed, she look so classy and elegant, nothing she could ever envisage herself to be. She looked down at her tank top and ripped jeans. This move was becoming more and more claustrophobic by the second; there was no way she was going to fit in with these people. She was abruptly pulled from her thoughts as Killian popped his head around the door.

"Hey love, how about we go out and grab some tea? I bet you don't feel like cooking tonight?"

"Um, sure, okay, good idea." She'd only half heard what he'd said. Pulling out of her trance, she followed him out.

Henry bounced ahead of them down Main Street. They'd discovered there was one main eatery in Storybrooke, a popular diner called Granny's. Henry ran in a head of them and chose a booth. He'd been very excitable since they'd arrived. That had been one of the reasons Emma had so willingly agreed to all of this. Henry had never really settled into big city life and he seemed so excited by the prospect of moving somewhere quieter where he could make friends and they could play in each other's gardens, they'd never had a garden before, now they had a huge one.

The second they'd all sat down the waitress was immediately with them.

"Well hello, you must be new around here?" They all looked at her for a moment. Emma couldn't help but smile. She was a complete contrast to the woman she'd seen through the window. Her hair was also dark brown, but shot through with red and her uniform left very little to the imagination. She was extremely friendly though. Before she could say anything, Killian began.

"Aye, we are. I'm Killian this is my wife Emma and her boy, Henry."

"I really like your hair." Henry said, a little coyly.

"Why thank you, Henry. My name's Ruby and welcome to Granny's." She handed them all a menu.

"How about I give you a few minutes to decide, I'll pop back, but call if you need me sooner." She threw out a cheeky grin and left.

"She seems lovely," said Emma as she watched Ruby busying herself at the other end of the diner. It was quite quiet here at the moment. As they'd missed lunch, this could either be considered a late lunch, or an early dinner. She was grateful though, had it been a more conventional eating time, she could imagine this place being packed to the rafters and was glad she didn't have to deal with loads of prying eyes. This town was so homely they'd probably stick out like a sore thumb.

"Yes, she does seem lovely. I can't imagine Granny wandering around in that uniform though." Quipped Killian and Emma laughed.

"Shh, she might hear." They began to look at the menu again when the doorbell rang. Emma looked up to see the same brunette she'd been staring at earlier walk in. God she was stunning. She didn't know what she expected when she was admiring her, but she far exceeded any expectation. She was one of the most, if not the most beautiful woman she'd ever seen. Her chocolate eyes were entrancing and those lips… Emma shut her mouth realising how she must look. Fortunately, Killian and Henry were still absorbed in their menu's. Emma looked to Ruby who waved somewhat sheepishly at the gorgeous new arrival before heading to the counter. It seemed a bit of an odd gesture to make, she wondered what sort of relationship they had, as they clearly knew one another. She watched as Ruby made her way behind the counter and then proceeded to interact normally with her. She eventually handed two drinks to the brunette before she paid and left. Ruby then returned to their table.

"Have you guys decided yet?"

"I think so," Said Killian who then looked to Emma, but spoke before she could. "Let me guess, you'll have the grilled cheese and hot cocoa with cinnamon on top?"

"You know me too well." Emma blushed and missed Ruby raise an eyebrow.

"Sure thing. And for you little man?"

"Can I have the same as Ma please?"

"Absolutely, you can." She then just looked to Killian who confirmed he'd have the double cheeseburger and a coke before leaving.

"So Henry, I've enrolled you into school, there's no reason you can't go tomorrow. Are you looking forward to starting?" Emma looked at Killian, slightly perturbed.

"You've enrolled him in school, already? Without discussing it with me?"

"Hey, it's okay Swan. I just happened to see the school when I was researching the area…"

"That's not the point Killian, he's my son and…"

"Hey, relax, I thought you'd be pleased. I did it because it's literally the only one in town, it's not like there was a choice. I just thought I would save you the hassle, there were no options to discuss."

"Hey ma, it's okay. I am looking forward to going to school. I can't wait to meet new friends and see what they do for fun around here." Emma settled again at Henry's enthusiasm. Whilst she understood Killian's reasoning, and it did kind of make sense seen as it was the only option, she couldn't help but feel a tad annoyed. Before she could think of anything else to say, however, Ruby began bringing out their dishes.

"Hmm, that smells great." Said Henry.

"The townsfolk love it here" Said Ruby. "The grilled cheese is classed as a speciality because they voted it 'favourite of the year once'," she added with a cheeky wink.

"Thank you Ruby," said Emma as she placed her food down.

"Ahh, she speaks!" Ruby quipped with a smile to show she was being playful, partially. Emma nervously began playing with her utensils.

"Thank you lass," offered Killian as she placed his burger down. She merely offered him a polite nod as she left them to enjoy their meals.

The following morning Henry was up bright and early. He'd already gotten washed and dressed and was trying to make himself breakfast when Emma and Killian wandered in, but he couldn't find anything to make.

"Don't sweat it kid," said Emma as she went to show him where the cereal was. "Afraid we just have cereal or toast this morning. I'll do a food shop later today."

"That sounds great; I've a few things you could pick up for me too, if possible?" Asked Killian who was hovering by the coffee pot.

"Sure. What are you plans for today?"

"I am going to meet my new boss, the mayor and pick up my badge and gun." He said whilst handing Emma a coffee.

"Great, so you'll be starting straight away?"

"I guess, not too sure. Think I'll be familiarising myself with things first, but I'm not doing any of that until we get this little man to school."

"You want to come with us?"

"Sure, as you pointed out last night, I booked him in, so I need to make sure I'm happy. Not that there's an option around here. But, if for some reason it's a nightmare, you could always home school?"

"What, No! I'm sure it'll be fine. Anyway, you are to be the Sheriff. I can't see anyone messing with Henry."

"I hope so… Hey I'm expecting some packages between ten and eleven. Will you be in to receive them?" Emma looked at him curiously.

"Sure, I can be here."

"Great, just pop them in the garage, I'll deal with them when I get home." With that, Killian left to go and get ready.

"I thought he'd stop getting those packages?" Henry queried. "I thought he was changing jobs."

"Yeah, me too. He's probably just got some lose ends to tie up." Emma kissed him on the head. "Come on, we best get ready. Can't be late for your first day in your new school."

An hour later at 8:15am, fifteen minutes before school was due to start, they pulled up in their new family SUV that Killian insist they brought just before they moved. They didn't need to wonder where to go as a woman was already approaching the car. She was fairly short with dark, pixie hair and very fair skin. They quickly began to get out.

"Morning, I'm Mrs Nolan and you must be Henry." She held out her hand and sported a huge smile as Henry shook her hand like a polite young man should. "And you must be his parents?" This time Emma cut in, knowing Killian would likely try and get in their first.

"I'm his mother, Emma. This is my husband Killian." Mrs Nolan gave an understanding nod before smiling at them both.

"Welcome to Storybrooke. I hope you're all settling in well?"

"Yes, we only arrived yesterday, so I think the best part of this week will mainly involve us settling in," responded Killian.

"Well, knowing you were coming I'd already requested a copy of Henry's reports and he appears to be a model student, good grades and kind and thoughtful. We are very lucky to have you here Henry." He beamed at the praise bestowed.

"Thank you Mrs Nolan." He responded as she ruffled his hair and turned her attention back to his parents.

"Henry will be in Mrs White's class. She's been teaching here for over ten years now and the students love her. I'm sure you'll settle in just fine Henry."

"Mrs White?" Queried an overly interested Killian. "Is not the mayor a White?"

"Indeed! She is his wife. Why?"

"Oh no reason, I'm due to meet him soon that was all and wondered if there was a connection. I'm the new Sheriff you see, just trying to put two and two together – or one and one."

"Well, that's your first mystery solved, Sheriff..?"

"Jones, the names Killian Jones."

"Indeed." She turned her attention back to Henry. "Why don't you come with me and I'll give a quick tour of the school before I take you to your class." Henry beamed at her excitedly.

"Thank you Mrs Nolan," said Emma as she bent down to Henry's level. "Now, you be good kiddo and listen to your teachers. I'll be here to pick you up after school okay."

"Okay, thanks ma." They watched as Mrs Nolan led Henry towards the entrance.

Mrs Nolan had shown Henry the basics. He knew where the important things were anyway, like the bathroom, and the dining hall. They'd arrived at class a few minutes late and knocked on the door before entering. All eyes turned their way, including his new teacher.

"Class talk amongst yourselves for a few minutes," instructed Mrs White who turned her attention back to the new arrival.

Mrs Nolan edged Henry further into the room and up to his new teacher before continuing. "Mrs White, this is Henry Swan. Sorry we are late, my fault, I was giving him a quick tour, but I will leave him in your capable hands."

"Thank you Mrs Nolan." Mrs White knelt down so she was level with Henry's face. "Welcome Henry. I hope you're not too nervous?"

"Not at all Mrs White. I'm looking forward to being here."

"That's great to hear. Follow me." His teacher led him to a desk near the front. "Henry, this is Nicholas." She turned her attention to the boy. "Nicholas, would you be able to buddy up with Henry, show him the ropes so to speak?"

"Yeah, sure thing Mrs White." She smiled at the boy appreciatively and told Henry to take a seat next to him before returning to the front of the class.

"Hey," said Nicholas grabbing Henry's attention. "It's great to see someone new here; no one ever seems to come to this town. How are you liking it?"

"Oh I'm loving it so far. To be honest, I'm hoping this would be my favourite part of the move."

"What, a new school?"

"Making a friend." It was clear Nicholas was fairly touched by that revelation.

"Did you not have friends before?"

"Hmm, not really, I was kind of a loner. There were a few kids I'd talk to or sit by, but we never really hung out."

"Well not anymore." They exchanged delighted grins before their attention was stolen by Mrs White who was calling the class to order.

After about thirty minutes into the class, they were all given a task of writing a creative story about a dream they'd had or a story they'd dreamt up. Henry desperately needed the toilet, he knew it couldn't be that long until they had a break but he didn't know what the protocol was here. He put up his hand and called out to Mrs White. She was busy writing something of her own.

"That won't work," whispered Nicholas. "She needs to be able to see you."

"What, why?"

"Her hearing isn't very good. You will have to get her to see you first."

"Then why are you bothering to whisper and what's the polite way to do that?"

"She's not completely deaf and I don't want everyone to know we're talking about her either. I'd just walk up to her, she usually notices. That's what we tend to do."

"Okay…" He stood to approach his teacher before turning back to his new friend. "You know, no-one in my old school would really care about upsetting a teacher."

"Oh, well Mrs White is lovely and I wouldn't want to make her sad." Henry smiled admirably at the boy and was glad he was placed next to him. He took his new friends advice and slowly walked to his new teacher, not wanting to startle her, but just has Nicholas had said, as he approached she looked his way.

"Henry! How are you, everything okay? Do you need help with something?"

"I'm okay thanks." Henry noted how she studied his face, namely his lips as though she was concentrating on catching his words right. "I was just wondering if I could go to the bathroom?"

"Of course Henry, do you remember the way?" He nodded to confirm and she gestured for him to go.

Henry was thrilled with his first day in his new school. It was nothing like the hustle and bustle of his old one. They had more freedom here and were able to express themselves more. There was far less wasted time dealing with behavioural issues too. Not once did his teacher have to get cross with anyone. Okay, she had to remind them all to calm at times, but anything remotely like a reprimand was more a reminder to behave and focus on the task in hand than anything else. Ever since he'd learnt she had hearing issues he was keen to learn more, though he certainly wouldn't ask her about it, especially as Nicholas had suggested it might make her sad. He wondered what it was all about. It was clear she could hear things, but he wondered to what extent. He couldn't stand mysteries like this. To Henry, everything was a mystery to be solved.

He was still waiting on the step just outside the door to the school when Mrs White emerged.

"Hi Henry! What are you still doing here? Where are your parents? Is everything okay?" Henry smiled and made sure he was looking at her before he spoke.

"I'm not sure; Ma said she was going to pick me up. Maybe she got lost; we've only been here for two days."

"Well okay. Mind if I wait with you 'til she shows?" She was really just being polite of course, if he'd tried to brush her off, or said no need, there was no way she'd leave him sat here on his own. Nearly all the other students had left now and she had no idea of this boy's home circumstances.

"Sure, okay. Thanks." She sat down next to him on the step.

"So how are you liking Storybrooke?" Henry became all animated again.

"Oh I love it… I love this town, I loooove Granny's, I love her grilled cheese and our new house. I love Nicholas and you of course." Her eyebrows shot to up as he babbled on. He quickly silenced himself. "Wait that all sounds very weird. When I say love…" Mrs White couldn't help but giggle.

"It's okay Henry, I get what you're trying to say and I'm thrilled you like it here so much." He blushed a bit with embarrassment.

"Thanks," he said appreciatively. Just as he finished, the black SUV pulled up outside the school and Killian stepped out, Henry stood, as did Mrs White.

"Henry," she said, "I thought you said your Ma was picking you up?" He looked at her a bit puzzled.

"Yeah, she said she was." He slowly began to walk to Killian, but Mrs White gently tapped him on the shoulder, encouraging him to turn to her.

"You know this man?"

"Yeah, he's my step-dad."

"And you're okay to go with him?"

"Yeah its fine, he's okay. We all live together. He's the new Sheriff in town."

"Okay." They both walked to Killian together.

"Sorry I'm late Kid, you're Ma got held up so I said I'd come get you." He turned his attention to the woman who was looking at him curiously.

"I guess I should apologise to you too. I'm Killian, the new Sheriff. I take it you are the Mayor's wife?" He said rather dismissively.

"I am Mrs White, Henry's teacher." She made the point of re-introducing herself.

"Well, thanks for looking after Henry… Come on kid, your ma is expecting us." Mrs White watched as they drove off. She wasn't sure what it was about that man, but something unnerved her.